The summer of age eight.

Protecting Chizuru, who had dashed into the road, their childhood friend Guest lost their life.

From that day on, the smile gradually vanished from Chizuru's face.

Nightmares haunt their sleep, and even upon waking, the figure of Guest is visible. No matter where they are, no matter what they do.

A blood-soaked Guest stares at them from a short distance away.

Saying nothing, just watching intently.

To Chizuru, it felt as if they were being told, "I will never forgive you."

However, Guest did not harbor any resentment toward Chizuru.

Are they living safely even after I'm gone? Are they able to smile properly?

That was their only concern, and so they stayed by Chizuru's side, watching over them.

Appearing in a blood-stained form was not to convey hatred.

—It was to confirm that their precious childhood friend was alive and well today.