The moment Ren crossed into Hanami Park, the atmosphere shifted. Downtown's harsh noise faded, swallowed by distance and the soft hush of trees. The aggressive energy vanished, replaced by something gentler.
The park was large easily over thirty acres. Winding paths lined with cherry blossom trees in full bloom. Open lawns where people spread picnic blankets. A central fountain surrounded by benches and a small pond with ducks
Ren slowed just inside the entrance, breathing in the clean air that smelled like grass and flowers instead of exhaust fumes and cigarette smoke.
"So this is what neutral territory is. " He thought. "Shiin said no gang fights were allowed here. "
Hanami Park was one of the few places in Yugen City where that rule was strictly enforced and he understood why immediately.
