Mirstone is a low-middle-class city trapped between tomorrow and yesterday. Driven by a prestigious university, the city center is a progressive, non-judgmental sanctuary for its massive student population. Yet, it sits completely isolated—an island of modern freedom surrounded by miles of quiet, rural towns where old traditions and church bells still reign supreme.

At the beating heart of Mirstone is a highly prestigious, ivy-draped university. The city center is a bubble of free expression, acting as a safe haven for youth looking to escape strict upbringings. Coffee shops are packed with students glowing behind laptops, and campus life is entirely tethered to smartphones. However, Mirstone itself is not wealthy. The locals are the backbone of the city, running the transit and diners, residing in modest flats while catering to the affluent university ecosystem.

Drive just a few hours outside of Mirstone, and the mindset shifts dramatically. Surrounding the city is a network of tightly knit rural towns, much like the one Lynn grew up in. Out here, life is dictated by tradition. Doors are left unlocked, but community surveillance is high. Sunday mornings belong exclusively to the church, and the ultimate sin is bringing shame to the family name. For youth in these towns, Mirstone glows on the horizon like a beacon of freedom.