The morning sunlight seeped through the curtains of Kaito’s room, painting the walls with a warm golden glow. He sat up in bed, rubbing the sleep from his eyes before glancing at the clock. It was earlier than usual, but today was not just another day. There was something important he needed to do, and it couldn’t wait any longer.

  Kaito got up and stretched, feeling a sense of determination fill him. After freshening up in the bathroom, he made his way downstairs. The scent of freshly brewed tea and toasted bread greeted him as he entered the kitchen. His mother, Shirayuki, was setting the table, while Kaori and Aoi were already seated.

  “Good morning, Kaito!” Shirayuki greeted with a cheerful smile. “You’re up early today.”

  “Morning,” Kaito replied, taking a seat at the table. “Yeah, I’ve got something to do.”

  Kaori raised an eyebrow, curious. “Something important?”

  Kaito simply nodded and began eating his breakfast. Aoi, sitting across from him, watched him silently, sensing there was more to his unusually quiet demeanor. She wanted to ask but decided to wait until he brought it up himself.

  The family shared a pleasant meal, with Shirayuki occasionally offering seconds to Kaito, who declined, saying he was already full. As they finished up, Kaito finally spoke, addressing Aoi.

  “Aoi, get ready,” he said, his tone calm but firm. “I’ll be waiting in the car.”

  Aoi blinked, surprised by the sudden instruction. “Get ready for what? Where are we going?”

  “You’ll see,” Kaito replied, standing up and clearing his plate.

  Before Aoi could press further, Shirayuki spoke up, her curiosity matching Aoi’s. “Kaito, where exactly are you planning to go so early in the morning?”

  Kaito paused, glancing at his mother before answering. “I’m going to the mountain. The one where the cave is.”

  The room fell silent for a moment, and Aoi’s expression shifted to one of understanding. Kaori, on the other hand, seemed slightly alarmed.

  “You’re going to the mountain?” Kaori asked, her tone laced with concern. “Is it safe? What’s the rush?”

  Kaito gave a reassuring nod. “It’s fine. I just need to see something. Don’t worry.”

  Kaori glanced at Aoi, then back at Kaito. “Alright. I’ll help Aoi get ready.”

  Shirayuki, though slightly worried, trusted her son. “Be careful, Kaito. And take your time. There’s no need to rush into anything dangerous.”

  Kaito smiled faintly at his mother. “I’ll be fine. Don’t worry, Mom.”

  Before leaving the kitchen, he added, “I’m off,” and made his way to the front door.

  Aoi quickly got up, and Kaori followed her upstairs to help her prepare. As Kaito stepped outside, the crisp morning air greeted him. He walked over to the car parked in the driveway and leaned against it, waiting patiently.

  As he stood there, the stillness of the morning gave him a moment to reflect. The journey ahead wasn’t just about the cave or the mysteries surrounding it—it was about finding answers and uncovering the truth. He wasn’t sure what they would find, but he knew he couldn’t turn back now.

  Kaito glanced back at the house, his resolve strengthening. Today marked the beginning of something important, and he was ready to face whatever lay ahead.

  Upstairs, Kaori was helping Aoi prepare. Aoi seemed a little nervous but excited, as she wasn’t entirely sure what Kaito had planned. Kaori rummaged through the wardrobe, pulling out a striking dress.

  “This one,” Kaori said with a grin, holding up the red and black asymmetrical dress. “It’s perfect for today. Trust me.”

  Aoi tilted her head, examining the dress Kaori held. “Are you sure? It’s… a bit bold, don’t you think?”

  Kaori laughed. “Bold is good. Besides, you’ll look amazing in it. Let’s see how it fits.”

  After a little convincing, Aoi slipped into the dress. The vibrant red fabric clung to her figure, complementing her complexion, while the black accents added a touch of elegance. Kaori handed her a black hat adorned with a delicate bird feather to complete the look.

  Aoi looked at herself in the mirror and gasped softly. “It’s beautiful… Do you think Kaito will like it?”

  Kaori smirked. “Oh, trust me, he won’t be able to take his eyes off you.”

  Blushing slightly, Aoi adjusted the hat and took a deep breath. “Alright. Let’s go.”

  Kaori led her downstairs, and as Aoi stepped outside, she found Kaito leaning against the car, lost in thought. When he heard the soft click of her heels on the pavement, he turned to look at her.

  The moment Kaito’s eyes landed on Aoi, his breath hitched. The asymmetrical dress hugged her figure perfectly making her chest bouncing and elegant look of her standing out, the red and black combination making her stand out against the backdrop of the morning sun. The black hat with the bird feather gave her an air of sophistication, and her shy smile only added to her charm.

  Kaito’s face immediately turned a light shade of pink. He quickly looked away, trying to compose himself, but his reaction didn’t go unnoticed.

  Aoi approached him with a small smile. “So? How do I look?”

  Kaito glanced at her briefly before averting his gaze again, his voice stumbling with hesitation. “Y-you look… beautiful.”

  Aoi’s cheeks flushed a soft pink, and she gave him a playful look. “Just beautiful?”

  Kaito scratched the back of his neck, still blushing. “Really beautiful,” he mumbled, avoiding eye contact.

  Kaori and Shirayuki, watching from the doorway, exchanged knowing smiles. Shirayuki waved to them. “Have a safe journey, you two!”

  Kaori chimed in, “Don’t get into any trouble, okay? And take care of each other!”

  “Got it!” Kaito replied, his voice still a little flustered.

  Aoi smiled at them. “We’ll be careful. See you later!”

  Kaito opened the car door for Aoi, who gracefully stepped inside. Once she was seated, he closed the door and quickly got into the driver’s seat. As he started the car, he couldn’t help but glance at her again out of the corner of his eye.

  Aoi noticed and giggled softly. “You’re staring again, Kaito.”

  Kaito’s hands tightened slightly on the steering wheel, and he focused on the road ahead. “I’m not staring,” he muttered, though his reddened cheeks betrayed him.

  As the car pulled away from the house, Kaori and Shirayuki waved until they were out of sight. Inside the car, the atmosphere was a mix of lightheartedness and unspoken anticipation. Aoi adjusted her hat, stealing a glance at Kaito, who seemed unusually quiet.

  “So,” she began, breaking the silence, “are you going to tell me where we’re going now, or do I have to keep guessing?”

  Kaito smirked slightly but kept his eyes on the road. “You’ll find out soon enough. Just be patient.”

  Aoi pouted playfully but leaned back in her seat, deciding to enjoy the ride. Despite her curiosity, she trusted Kaito completely.

  As the car continued down the winding road, the journey felt like the beginning of something meaningful—an adventure that would bring them closer together, step by step.

  The car ride to the town was filled with light-hearted banter between Kaito and Aoi.

  “Kaito,” Aoi said, tilting her head, “you’re not a bad driver, but you’re a little stiff behind the wheel. Do you always drive like this?”

  Kaito glanced at her, feigning offense. “Stiff? I’m being careful. It’s called safe driving.”

  Aoi giggled. “I don’t know if ‘safe’ is the word I’d use. You’re gripping the steering wheel like it’s going to run away.”

  He chuckled, relaxing his hands slightly. “Fine, I’ll ease up a little. Happy now?”

  “Very,” she said with a grin, leaning back in her seat.

  They arrived in the town near the mountain where they had their school trip, and as Kaito parked the car, a wave of nostalgia hit him. He looked around, recognizing the familiar streets and shops they had passed during the school trip.

  “I feel like I should look around one more time,” Kaito said, stepping out of the car.

  Aoi followed him, adjusting her hat. “That sounds nice. Let’s explore!”

  The two strolled through the town, taking in the sights. It was a quiet, picturesque place with narrow streets, old wooden buildings, and colorful flowers lining the windowsills. The air was crisp, carrying a hint of the mountain’s cool breeze.

  “Remember that little café we stopped by during the trip?” Aoi asked, pointing toward a small shop with a flower-decorated sign.

  Kaito nodded, smiling. “Yeah. Haruto ended up spilling his drink all over the table because he was too busy laughing at one of your jokes.”

  Aoi laughed at the memory. “He couldn’t stop blaming me for it, even though it was his fault!”

  They wandered further, stopping occasionally to admire the quaint stores and local art displayed in shop windows. At one point, Aoi pulled Kaito into a small boutique, where she tried on a pair of earrings.

  “What do you think?” she asked, holding up a small mirror to admire the simple yet elegant design.

  “They suit you,” Kaito replied, his tone genuine.

  “You think so?” Aoi smiled softly and decided to buy them.

  As they left the boutique, Kaito glanced at her. “You’re really enjoying this, aren’t you?”

  “Of course,” Aoi said. “It’s nice to just… take it slow, you know? No big plans, no rush, just enjoying the moment.”

  Her words struck a chord with Kaito. He realized how much he valued these simple, peaceful moments with her.

  When noon rolled around, the two decided to grab lunch at a small restaurant they stumbled upon. It was a cozy place with wooden tables and the aroma of freshly cooked food wafting through the air.

  Aoi scanned the menu, her eyes lighting up. “Ooh, they have soba noodles! I’m definitely getting that.”

  Kaito chuckled. “You’ve been talking about soba since we left the house. I’m surprised you held out this long.”

  “Hey, it’s not my fault it’s my favorite!” she said, sticking her tongue out playfully.

  Kaito ordered a simple rice and fish set, and they chatted while waiting for their food.

  “So, Kaito,” Aoi said, resting her chin on her hand, “what made you decide to revisit this town?”

  He paused for a moment, his gaze thoughtful. “I’m not sure. I guess I just wanted to see it again. There’s something about this place… it feels like it holds pieces of our story, you know?”

  Aoi’s expression softened. “Yeah. I get that. It’s strange, isn’t it? How certain places can make you feel so connected to people.”

  Their food arrived, and they ate while sharing more memories and jokes. Aoi teased Kaito about his habit of eating too quickly, while Kaito playfully scolded her for taking too many pictures of her food before eating it.

  By the time they finished lunch, the two of them felt lighter, their bond strengthened by the shared experience.

  “Ready to explore some more?” Aoi asked as they stepped out of the restaurant.

  Kaito nodded, a small smile on his lips. “Yeah. Let’s see what else this town has to offer.”

  The mountain trail was steep but manageable, surrounded by towering trees and the sound of birds chirping in the crisp air. Kaito and Aoi walked side by side, their hands clasped together for support and comfort.

  “You okay?” Kaito asked, glancing at Aoi, who was adjusting her hat to shield her face from the sun.

  “I’m fine,” she replied with a determined smile. “Don’t underestimate me, Kaito. I can keep up just fine.”

  He chuckled. “I wasn’t doubting you. Just making sure you don’t trip like last time.”

  Aoi pouted. “That was one time! You don’t have to keep bringing it up.”

  Their light banter made the climb feel less daunting, and after a while, they reached the cave entrance. The same cave they had discovered during the school trip now seemed more mysterious and ominous than before.

  “Here we are,” Kaito said, pausing to catch his breath. He tightened his grip on Aoi’s hand. “Are you ready for this?”

  She nodded, her eyes filled with both excitement and nervousness. “Let’s do it.”

  They entered the cave, the air inside cool and damp. The sound of their footsteps echoed through the hollow chamber as they carefully made their way down to the bottom, using their phone flashlights to illuminate the path.

  When they reached the massive royal door, it looked just as majestic and imposing as they remembered. Intricate carvings covered its surface, depicting scenes of what seemed to be a forgotten era.

  Kaito pulled out the key he had brought with him, its metallic surface gleaming faintly in the dim light. He stepped closer to the door and inserted the key into the small lock at its center.

  For a moment, nothing happened. Then, the key began to glow faintly before disappearing into thin air.

  Aoi gasped. “It’s gone!”

  Kaito nodded, his gaze fixed on the door. “It’s part of the process, I think. Look.”

  On either side of the door were two hand-shaped impressions, one on the left and one on the right.

  Kaito glanced at Aoi. “We’re supposed to put our hands here. It’s the only way to open it.”

  He placed his right hand into the left-side impression, and Aoi hesitated for a moment before placing her left hand into the right-side impression. The stone felt cold and smooth beneath their palms.

  “Ready?” Kaito asked, looking at Aoi.

  She gave him a small smile. “As ready as I’ll ever be.”

  Together, they pushed against the door. A low rumbling sound filled the cave as the door began to shift. It creaked open slowly, revealing a bright, glowing light on the other side.

  Both of them shielded their eyes from the intensity of the light. It was impossible to see what lay beyond, but there was an overwhelming sense of anticipation in the air.

  “What… what is this?” Aoi whispered, her voice trembling slightly.

  “I don’t know,” Kaito replied, his heart racing. “But we’re about to find out.”

  As the door fully opened, the light grew brighter, enveloping them in its warmth. Kaito and Aoi stood at the threshold, unsure of what awaited them on the other side.

  “Shall we?” Kaito asked, extending his hand toward Aoi.

  She took it without hesitation. “Let’s go.”

  Hand in hand, they stepped through the door, into the unknown.

  As the glowing light subsided, Kaito and Aoi found themselves in a vast, ethereal hall. The walls shimmered like liquid gold, and the floor was made of an unearthly translucent crystal, reflecting their astonished expressions. The air carried a faint melody, haunting and beautiful, that seemed to echo from nowhere and everywhere all at once.

  In the center of the hall floated a figure that immediately captured their attention. He wore a fox-shaped mask, its intricate carvings highlighted by a faint, otherworldly glow. His long robes swirled around him, defying gravity, and his posture exuded a peculiar mix of elegance and menace.

  “Welcome, customer-sama,” the masked man said, his voice smooth and chilling. He tilted his head slightly as if studying them, the corners of his lips visible beneath the mask curling into a villainous smile.

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  Kaito instinctively stepped in front of Aoi, his protective instincts kicking in. “Who are you?”

  The masked man ignored the question, his attention unwavering. Slowly, he descended from his floating position and landed gracefully before them. With a dramatic bow, he extended his hand toward them, his movements theatrical yet unsettling.

  “Let’s begin the banquet,” he said, his tone dripping with mock politeness. He straightened and gestured to the vast space around them. “Let’s dance, shall we?”

  Neither Kaito nor Aoi moved, their minds racing with questions. Who was this man? What was this place?

  “Will you accept?” the masked man continued, his voice carrying a strange, hypnotic rhythm. His eyes glimmered behind the mask, their intent unreadable.

  Kaito and Aoi exchanged a glance. There was no fear in Aoi’s eyes, only curiosity and resolve. Kaito took a deep breath and nodded slightly, signaling his silent agreement.

  Without speaking, Aoi followed his lead. Their unspoken consent seemed to satisfy the masked man, who chuckled softly, his laughter echoing unnaturally throughout the hall.

  “Good,” he said, his voice lowering into a whisper that sent shivers down their spines. “Now… embrace the past.”

  As the words left his lips, the hall erupted in a swirl of light and sound. The shimmering walls rippled like water, and the crystalline floor beneath their feet began to dissolve.

  The air grew heavier, filled with a strange energy that tugged at their very souls.

  Kaito and Aoi felt themselves being pulled into a vortex of memories, emotions, and sensations, as though they were diving headfirst into a dream—or a nightmare.

  Kaito felt a strange tug at his consciousness, as though he were being gently pulled out of reality. When he opened his eyes again, he was no longer in the glowing hall or with Aoi.

  Instead, he found himself standing in a small, cozy house. The smell of freshly cooked food lingered in the air, and sunlight streamed through the windows, casting a warm glow over everything.

  But something was different—his perspective was lower. He glanced down and saw his small hands, tiny legs, and the simple clothing of a child. A mirror on the wall confirmed it: he was no longer the teenager he remembered being but a 4-year-old child.

  Before he could fully process what was happening, a soft voice called out to him, filled with warmth and love.

  “Kaito, my sweet boy!”

  He turned toward the voice and saw her—a woman with kind eyes and a gentle smile. Her hair was tied in a loose braid, and she wore a simple yet elegant dress. Her presence radiated a sense of comfort and safety. She knelt down, opening her arms, and before Kaito knew it, he had run toward her.

  “Mom…” he whispered, the word leaving his lips instinctively.

  She scooped him up into her arms, holding him close. Her laughter was soft and melodic, filling the room with a joy Kaito couldn’t recall feeling before. She kissed his forehead and began talking to him, her voice gentle and soothing.

  “You’ve been such a good boy today, haven’t you? Tell me, what did you do?” she asked, her fingers brushing through his hair.

  Kaito looked at her, his young self unable to form the complex thoughts racing through his mind. He was caught between the innocence of his childlike state and the awareness of his true self. His tiny hands reached out to touch her face, as though confirming she was real.

  “Mom…” he whispered again, this time with emotion heavy in his voice.

  She smiled warmly, oblivious to the tear that slipped down his left cheek. It wasn’t a tear of sadness but of overwhelming emotion—a mixture of joy, love, and the bittersweet ache of a memory long buried.

  Before he could say more, another voice entered the room—a deeper, commanding yet kind voice.

  “There’s my little boy!”

  A tall figure entered, his presence as warm as the woman’s but with a strength that made Kaito feel secure. It was his father, with a broad smile and strong arms that lifted him effortlessly.

  “Were you being good to your mother today?” his father teased, spinning him around in the air.

  Kaito let out a surprised laugh, his childlike instincts taking over for a moment. His father brought him close and ruffled his hair, grinning down at him.

  “You’re going to grow up to be someone great, Kaito,” his father said with a wink. “But for now, let’s have some fun!”

  Both his parents played with him, their laughter filling the room. It was a scene so perfect, so full of love, that Kaito almost forgot it was a memory. But as he looked at them, truly seeing their faces for the first time in years, he felt a deep ache in his heart.

  “I remember you now…” he whispered, though they couldn’t hear him. His voice trembled as the realization struck him—he had forgotten them, their faces, their voices, their love.

  The memory was fleeting, but in that moment, Kaito was filled with a longing he hadn’t felt in years. It was as if a piece of himself had been returned, a piece he didn’t even realize was missing.

  As the scene began to blur, Kaito reached out to them, his small hands grasping at the air. “Wait… don’t go…”

  But the light grew brighter, and their voices faded, leaving him alone once more.

  Kaito’s small arms wrapped tightly around his father’s neck as they played in the cozy living room. The warmth of the moment enveloped him, filling him with a sense of security he hadn’t experienced in a long time. But just as he was beginning to feel comfortable in this idyllic scene, the sound of the front door opening caught his attention.

  A man stepped inside, his presence cheerful and energetic. He was tall and confident, with an easy smile that lit up the room. Behind him was a woman who radiated kindness and charm. She had long, flowing hair and a playful twinkle in her eyes.

  “Kaito, look who’s here!” his father exclaimed, placing Kaito down gently on the floor.

  The little boy turned toward the visitors, his curiosity piqued. His mother greeted them warmly, and Kaito’s father exchanged a hearty handshake with the man.

  “This is your uncle,” his father said, gesturing to the man, “and this lovely lady is Shirayuki, his girlfriend.”

  Shirayuki knelt down, bringing herself to Kaito’s level. “Well, aren’t you the cutest little thing?” she said with a laugh, her voice light and cheerful.

  Kaito hesitated for a moment, his small fingers clutching the hem of his shirt. But then Shirayuki sat down beside him on the couch, her smile inviting and warm. Without thinking, Kaito found himself crawling onto her lap, drawn to her soothing presence.

  “Oh my, aren’t you bold?” Shirayuki teased, lifting him up slightly and placing him comfortably on her lap. She held him gently, her arms supporting his small frame.

  Kaito looked up at her, his innocent eyes meeting hers. Shirayuki’s laughter was like a melody, and she began to play with him, tickling his sides and making silly faces.

  “Do you like flying, little one?” she asked, lifting him slightly into the air as though he were soaring like a bird. Kaito let out a giggle, his small hands clinging to her arms.

  “Look at that,” his uncle said with a grin. “He’s already attached to you, Shirayuki.”

  Kaito’s mother laughed softly. “He has good taste. Shirayuki is someone very special.”

  As the adults talked, Shirayuki continued to play with Kaito, her cheerful demeanor putting him completely at ease. Eventually, Kaito rested his head against her shoulder, his eyelids growing heavy.

  “Getting sleepy already?” Shirayuki asked softly, brushing his hair back from his face.

  Kaito didn’t answer, but he nestled closer to her, his small body relaxing in her arms. In moments, he had drifted off to sleep, his breathing steady and peaceful.

  Shirayuki cradled him gently, her expression soft as she gazed down at him. “He’s such a sweet boy,” she murmured.

  The room seemed to grow quieter, and the warmth of the moment began to fade. Kaito felt the world around him shift as if it were dissolving into nothingness.

  Suddenly, the comforting light of the house was replaced by an all-encompassing darkness. Wherever Kaito looked, he could see nothing but black. The warmth of Shirayuki’s embrace was gone, replaced by a cold emptiness.

  He felt as though he were sinking, his body growing heavier with each passing moment. It was as if he were being pulled slowly into the depths of an endless sea. The silence was deafening, and the only sensation he had was the weight of the water pulling him down.

  Kaito’s mind raced, but his body felt paralyzed. The world around him was completely black, and he had no sense of time or space. It was just him, sinking deeper and deeper into the void.

  Kaito found himself standing beneath the shade of a tall, familiar tree. The sunlight filtering through its branches painted dappled patterns on the ground, and a cool breeze rustled the leaves above. He blinked, confused. The place felt oddly familiar, but he couldn’t quite place it.

  As he looked around, he noticed the mountain in the distance—the same mountain he had climbed just moments ago, but something was different. Everything seemed larger, brighter, and more vivid, as if he were seeing it through the eyes of someone much smaller.

  Kaito glanced down at himself and realized with a start—he was a child. His small hands and short stature confirmed it. He couldn’t have been older than six years old. His heart raced in confusion. “What’s going on?” he murmured, his voice high-pitched and childlike.

  Before he could make sense of it, a cheerful voice called out to him. “Rio!”

  He turned toward the voice and saw a little girl running toward him, her long hair flowing behind her like a ribbon caught in the wind. She wore a simple dress and had a bright, carefree smile on her face. Her eyes sparkled with excitement as she waved at him.

  “Rio, come on! What are you doing just standing there?” she said, grabbing his hand. Her touch was warm, and her grip was firm but gentle, as though she’d known him forever.

  Kaito blinked. Rio? That wasn’t his name. But the way she said it felt so natural, so familiar, as if it had been his name at some point. He tried to ask her who she was, but the words caught in his throat.

  The girl tugged on his hand, pulling him along. “Come on! Let’s play! There’s so much to do before the sun sets!”

  Before he knew it, they were running through the grass, their laughter echoing in the air. They played tag, ran after butterflies, and climbed over rocks. The girl’s laughter was infectious, and Kaito found himself smiling despite his confusion.

  “Who are you?” he finally managed to ask, his voice tinged with curiosity.

  The girl turned to him, her expression thoughtful. “You don’t remember me, do you, Rio?” she said softly, a hint of sadness in her voice.

  Kaito hesitated. There was something about her—something familiar yet distant, like a memory he couldn’t quite grasp. “I... I don’t know,” he admitted.

  She smiled again, but this time it was softer, more melancholic. “It’s okay. You don’t have to remember right now. Let’s just play, okay?”

  Kaito nodded, unsure of what else to do. They continued playing, talking, and running after one another. She told him stories about the flowers they found, the shapes of the clouds, and the birds that flew overhead. Kaito listened, entranced by her voice, even though he couldn’t understand why any of this was happening.

  As the sun began to dip lower in the sky, painting the world in hues of orange and gold, the girl suddenly stopped running. She turned to face Kaito, her expression serious.

  “Rio,” she said, her voice soft yet firm. “I’m waiting.”

  Her words sent a shiver down his spine. There was something in the way she said it—a weight, a significance that he couldn’t ignore. Before he could respond, the world around them began to blur. The colors faded, the sounds grew distant, and the girl’s figure became hazy, like a dream slipping away.

  “Wait!” Kaito called out, reaching for her, but his hand grasped nothing but air. The scene vanished in an instant, leaving him alone in the dark.

  The black void surrounded him once more, swallowing everything in its emptiness. The warmth of the sun, the laughter of the girl, the softness of her hand—all of it was gone.

  Kaito stood there, his heart pounding. “Who was she?” he whispered to himself. But no answer came.

  He clenched his fists, frustration bubbling within him. The girl’s words echoed in his mind. “I’m waiting.” Waiting for what? For him? Why couldn’t he remember?

  As the void pressed in around him, Kaito felt a familiar weight settle on his chest. The feeling of loss, of something precious slipping through his fingers, returned with full force. He closed his eyes, trying to hold on to the memory of her smile, but even that began to fade.

  And then, like a whisper carried by the wind, her voice reached him one last time.

  “Don’t forget, Rio. Don’t forget...”

  Her words lingered in the air, even as everything else faded into darkness.

  Kaito floated in the black void, his mind heavy with uncertainty. The last thing he remembered was the warmth of Shirayuki’s embrace, but now he felt nothing but emptiness. Then, as if carried by the wind, a soft whisper echoed through the darkness.

  “Can you face your worst memory?”

  It was the voice of the masked man. The words cut through Kaito’s mind like a blade, making him shiver.

  Before he could process the meaning, his eyes snapped open. He was no longer in the void but seated in the backseat of a car. The hum of the engine filled his ears, and sunlight streamed through the windows.

  Kaito’s heart raced as he looked around. In the front seats, his mother and father were talking and laughing, their smiles bright and carefree.

  “Where do you think we should stop for lunch?” his father asked, his hands firmly on the steering wheel.

  “I’m thinking of that place by the river,” his mother replied, turning her head slightly to look at him. “Kaito loves the view there.”

  Her warm smile met Kaito’s gaze, and he felt an overwhelming surge of emotion. He knew this moment. He remembered it all too well.

  “No…” Kaito whispered, though no sound escaped his lips. He wanted to reach out, to grab their attention, but his body wouldn’t move.

  “Kaito, what do you think?” his mother asked, turning toward him with a cheerful expression.

  He opened his mouth to respond, to warn them, but no words came out. Instead, he sat frozen, unable to change what he knew was coming.

  The car sped along the winding road, the scenery outside passing by in a blur. Kaito’s father chuckled at a joke his mother made, and the three of them seemed so happy—so alive.

  Kaito clenched his fists, his nails digging into his palms. He wanted to scream, to tell them to stop the car, to pull over, but his voice was trapped in his throat.

  The atmosphere inside the car was filled with warmth and laughter, yet a sense of impending doom loomed over Kaito. He could feel it in the pit of his stomach, an unshakable dread that grew stronger with every passing second.

  His mother turned to him again, her soft eyes full of love. “Are you okay back there, sweetheart?” she asked, her voice tender.

  Kaito wanted to reply, but the only thing that came out was a tear rolling down his cheek.

  Then it happened.

  The truck appeared out of nowhere, barrelling toward them with terrifying speed. His father’s expression changed in an instant, his hands gripping the wheel tightly as he swerved to avoid it.

  “Kaito, hold on!” his mother cried, her voice filled with panic.

  The car spun out of control, the world outside the windows a chaotic blur. Kaito’s heart pounded in his chest as he watched his parents struggle to regain control of the vehicle.

  In those final moments, time seemed to slow. His parents looked at each other, their faces etched with a mixture of fear and acceptance.

  Kaito, with tears streaming down his face, finally found his voice.

  “Thank you… thank you for staying with me, Mother, Father. Thank… thank you.”

  His words hung in the air like a fragile thread, the only sound in the chaos. His parents turned to him, their expressions softening as if they heard him despite the noise and panic.

  Then everything went black.

  The impact was deafening, yet Kaito couldn’t feel anything. The warmth of his parents was gone, replaced once again by the cold emptiness of the void. He floated in the darkness, his mind consumed by the memory of their final moments.

  The masked man’s voice echoed once more, distant and cold.

  “Do you understand now?”

  Kaito couldn’t answer. All he could do was sink deeper into the abyss, his heart heavy with pain.

  Kaito woke up in a bed he immediately recognized. The faint morning light streamed through the curtains, casting a soft glow across the room. His mind felt heavy, weighed down by the memories of the accident and the warmth he had lost.

  Sitting up slowly, he glanced around. The room was familiar—it was his aunt Shirayuki’s house, the place where he had lived after the tragedy. A bittersweet nostalgia crept into his heart as he recalled the times spent here.

  Without a word, Kaito swung his legs over the edge of the bed and stood up. His bare feet touched the cool floor as he made his way downstairs. The faint sound of voices reached his ears.

  As he approached the living room, he stopped at the corner, peering inside.

  “I’m telling you, we should adopt him!” Shirayuki’s voice was trembling, but it carried a desperate determination. She was sitting on the couch, her hands clasped tightly together.

  Kaito’s uncle, however, stood across the room with a stern expression. “No, Shirayuki. I won’t do it,” he said sharply, his voice cold and unyielding.

  Shirayuki rose to her feet, her eyes brimming with tears. “He’s just a child! He’s lost everything—his mother, his father! How can you be so heartless?”

  Her words seemed to ignite something in his uncle, who slammed his hand against the wall. “Heartless? Don’t you dare call me that! I didn’t ask for this! You want to take care of him? Fine! Do it on your own!”

  The air grew tense, and Kaito stood frozen, his small hands trembling as he clutched the corner of the wall.

  Shirayuki’s voice cracked as she cried out, “How can you say that? He’s family! He’s your nephew!”

  But her pleas fell on deaf ears. His uncle grabbed his coat and turned toward the door. “If you’re so eager to take him in, then do it. But don’t expect me to stay. Live with him alone!”

  And with that, he slammed the door behind him, leaving the house in silence.

  Shirayuki collapsed onto the couch, tears streaming down her face. She buried her face in her hands, sobbing uncontrollably.

  Kaito couldn’t bear it anymore. He stepped into the room, his heart aching as he approached her. “Aunt Shirayuki… I… I’m sorry… Please forgive me,” he said softly, his voice quivering.

  Shirayuki looked up, startled by his presence. Her tear-streaked face broke Kaito’s heart even more. Despite her own anguish, she reached out and pulled him into a tight embrace.

  “It’s not your fault, Kaito,” she whispered through her sobs. “None of this is your fault. Don’t ever think that.”

  But Kaito could feel the weight of her pain as she held him. She was trying to comfort him, but she was breaking inside.

  As her sobs quieted, her body suddenly went limp, and she fell unconscious in his arms.

  “Aunt Shirayuki!” Kaito cried out, shaking her gently, but there was no response. Panic surged through him, and he ran to the phone to call an ambulance.

  When Shirayuki was taken to the hospital, Kaito sat in the waiting room, his small hands clutching his knees tightly. Hours felt like days as he waited for news.

  Finally, a doctor approached him, kneeling down to his level. “Your aunt will be fine,” the doctor said with a kind smile. “But she’s going through a lot. Did you know she’s pregnant?”

  Kaito’s eyes widened in shock. “P-Pregnant?” he stammered.

  The doctor nodded. “Yes, she’s carrying a child. It’s important that she avoids stress and takes care of herself. She’s been under a lot of emotional strain.”

  Kaito’s heart sank. He thought of his uncle, who had abandoned her in her time of need. He thought of the nights she must have spent crying alone, putting on a brave face for him while secretly breaking apart inside.

  As the days turned into weeks, Kaito began to notice the cracks in Shirayuki’s facade. She would smile at him during the day, reassuring him that everything was fine, but at night, he could hear her muffled sobs from her room.

  She carried the burden of her husband’s betrayal and her pregnancy with quiet strength, never letting Kaito see the full extent of her pain. But he knew. He saw it in her eyes, the way they glistened with unshed tears even when she smiled at him.

  Kaito’s heart ached with guilt. He felt as though he was the reason for her suffering, the reason her life had been turned upside down.

  “I’m sorry,” he whispered to himself late one night, staring at the ceiling of his room. “I’m so sorry, Aunt Shirayuki.”

  The memory of those days weighed heavily on him as he sat in the darkness, alone with his thoughts.

  The world around Kaito dissolved into darkness once again. His surroundings faded into an endless, impenetrable void, and he was left standing alone, a solitary figure amidst the silence of his own mind. The familiar chill of isolation crept in, but this time, it felt different. There was a faint, lingering presence—something, or someone, watching him.

  The voice of the masked man echoed through the void, breaking the silence. “Can you move forward?” His voice was neither kind nor cruel, but rather curious, almost detached as if he were observing Kaito’s very soul.

  Kaito stood still for a moment, the weight of the question pressing down on him. His chest tightened as he turned the words over in his mind. Can I move forward?

  The memories came flooding back—his mother’s gentle smile, his father’s warm embrace, the laughter and the love that had once filled their home. And then, the memories of loss—the brutal accident, the guilt that had gnawed at him since that fateful day, and the loneliness that had followed. The faces of his aunt and uncle, the pain of being abandoned, and the weight of his unresolved grief. All of it came crashing down on him, like an unrelenting storm.

  He wanted to scream, to push it all away, but something held him back. There was a tug in his heart, a chain that had bound him to the past, to the pain, to the mistakes. Can I really move forward?

  Kaito felt as if he were suffocating, trapped by the memories that haunted him. The faces of his parents flickered before his eyes, their voices, their love. He could almost hear them calling to him, but there was something else too—the guilt, the fear, the anger.

  But amidst the storm of emotions, one face stood out. Aoi.

  The moment he thought of her, something inside him shifted. Her face, her smile, the kindness and understanding she had shown him—it was as if a beacon of light pierced through the darkness. Aoi, the one who had been there for him through it all, the one who had accepted him despite everything. She was the reason he had fought so hard to survive, to move forward.

  In that moment, Kaito realized something profound. He hadn’t come this far, endured all this pain, just to remain trapped in the past. He had come for Aoi, to protect her, to be with her. He had to let go of the chains that bound him, the memories that held him captive. He had to move forward—for her, and for himself.

  The void around him trembled, the images of his memories swirling around him in a dizzying dance. Each one, a snapshot of his past—the good, the bad, the painful—fleeting before his eyes like a movie reel. They flashed by, each frame carrying a piece of his soul, a fragment of who he had been.

  And then, the memories began to fade, slowly but surely, as if they were being erased by some unseen force. The mask of guilt that had covered his heart started to crack, its hold loosening, bit by bit. His feelings of inadequacy, his self-loathing—they were all starting to disappear, replaced by something else. A new strength, one that had always been there, hidden beneath the surface.

  Kaito’s hands clenched into fists. He was ready. He had made his choice.

  “I will move on,” he whispered to himself, his voice barely audible against the overwhelming silence of the void. “For Aoi. For me. I won’t be held back anymore.”

  The ground beneath his feet began to tremble, as if the very fabric of the world was reacting to his decision. The void began to crack, the darkness retreating, as if it was being forced out by his newfound resolve.

  And then, with a resounding crack, a blinding light erupted from the center of the void. The chains that had bound him to his past shattered, splintering into millions of fragments. The memories that had once consumed him were now scattered to the wind, no longer able to control him.

  The masked man watched, his gaze unreadable behind the fox-shaped mask. “So, you choose to move forward,” he said, almost in approval. “You have broken the chains that held you. Now, you may leave this place.”

  Kaito felt the ground beneath him shift, the ruins of the void crumbling around him. The blackness receded, revealing a new path—one that stretched forward, leading him to an unknown future. His past, though still a part of him, no longer defined him. He was free.

  With a final, determined step, Kaito walked forward into the unknown. The world around him faded, the darkness dissolving into a bright new dawn.

  And as he stepped into that new world, he felt it—a sense of peace, a weight lifting from his shoulders. He had chosen to move forward. He had chosen to let go of the pain, the guilt, and the sorrow. And in doing so, he had freed himself from the chains of his past.

  For the first time in a long while, Kaito felt truly free.