The World

From Winnipeg's frozen rinks to the competitive badminton courts, explore the locations that shape Sophia and Ethan's story. Each place holds memories, challenges, and moments that define their journey together.

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St. Paul's High School

Where it all begins. The hallways where they reunite, the cafeteria where social hierarchies play out, and the classrooms where they're both fighting for academic excellence. St. Paul's is more than a school—it's the battleground for belonging.

Key Locations: Cafeteria, Library, Hockey Rink entrance, Senior hallway

Featured in: Episodes 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

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The Rinks (Hockey)

Bell MTS Iceplex and community rinks where Ethan transforms into the player everyone knows. The cold, the intensity, the pressure of scouts watching—this is where hockey dreams either come true or shatter. Sophia watches from the stands, her presence his good luck charm.

Atmosphere: Icy cold, dramatic lighting, roar of crowds, competitive intensity

Featured in: Episodes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8

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Badminton Courts

Badminton Manitoba training facilities where Sophia finds her own excellence separate from Ethan's world. The precision, the speed, the singles competition where it's just you against yourself. This is where she proves she's not just "Ethan's friend"—she's elite in her own right.

Key Moments: Provincial championships, doubles partnership with Maya, national gold

Featured in: Episodes 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8

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Winnipeg Locations

The Forks where memories are made and futures decided. McNally Robinson bookstore where three hours disappear. Osborne Village streets walked in winter cold. Winnipeg isn't just setting—it's home, with all its brutal winters, tight-knit communities, and unexpected beauty.

Notable Places: The Forks, McNally Robinson, Assiniboine Park, Osborne Village

Featured in: Episodes 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10

Setting Details

Timeline

Season 1: September (Junior year start) through August (MIT arrival)
Span: One full school year plus summer
Season: Winnipeg fall, brutal winter, spring thaw, summer

Cultural Context

Hockey culture dominates—it's not just a sport, it's identity. Badminton is lesser known but fiercely competitive. The mix of Canadian politeness and direct Prairie communication creates unique social dynamics.

Climate & Atmosphere

Winnipeg winters are legendary—brutal cold, endless snow, darkness. The cold becomes a character: forcing people together, creating intimate moments, making spring feel like rebirth. Weather shapes the story's mood.

Sports Seasons

Hockey: September–March (regular season), March–April (playoffs)
Badminton: Year-round training, October–March (competition season), April (nationals)

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