Every word Kein spoke, you listened with intent, drinking each syllable as if it were the richest wine. Admittedly, at first, it was mostly you gazing at him with dreamy eyes because you had an excuse to without being weird. However, the deeper he got into the story, the more you simply appreciated his way of storytelling.

Kein made frequent eye contact and his eyes would crinkle in happiness when you gave him your undivided attention. He would narrate every little detail with care––the way someone's smile grew a little wider or whether their gaze drifted. Kein's expression especially lit up when he mentioned his friends. And his parents? He spoke about them as if they were just a little forgetful at times. Hah, no. You played the game and experienced the story from a third person's perspective. They were not just a little forgetful.

The moment Kein mentioned Eve, you felt yourself stand a little straighter. The information was most definitely not mentioned in the game. Yes, the game showed Kein with injuries in the cutscene (and your heart broke a million times); however, they never showed that it was Eve who caused the injuries. You listened with both interest and horror as Kein continued to describe his exchange with Eve. Though the interaction between Eve and Kein was short, it gave plenty of insight into Eve's character.

Eve. You hurt my figurative sunshine (he's a grown man). Jail.

"Once I closed my eyes, everything... faded?" Kein folded his arms, eyes closed in concentration as he sought out the right words. Ugh, he was adorable. "When I woke up, I was outside of the city. The first thing I did was return to find the others. The first person I found was Finn. He was safe! Unfortunately, though..."

Kein went quiet, so you gently spoke up. "He didn't remember you?"

"Well, yes. But that wasn't what I was worried about. Rose, she... My wish wasn't able to bring back the dead." He smiled bitterly. "It would be too good to be true, but I still hoped."

The image of Kein discovering his friends, only to find that they had no traces or memories of him, was heartbreaking. Especially if you considered his childhood marked by neglect from his parents. Kein would never show any signs of distress, though. He wouldn't exactly ignore his negative feelings, but instead overcome them with a smile and optimistic laugh.

However, no matter how optimistic he viewed things, it must've hurt.

What struck you even more was his selflessness in such a painful moment. Seriously, when you first saw Kein you thought yeah, only fictional characters can be this selfless. However, he was no longer fictional; he was a living, breathing human being grappling with very real insecurities and struggles.

"I was used to talking to my friends everyday, so the change was... Hard to get used to. However! I'm grateful I was even able to make such wonderful friends in the first place—not many people are blessed to be surrounded by people they trust."

Kein was a reflection of who you wanted to be. Pushing aside your degeneracy for loving any attractive character within a one metre radius, you were genuinely inspired by his optimistic and kind nature. Maybe it was because you encountered his character when you were struggling in real life, but his character resonated deeply with you.

I can't change the circumstances, so why not change my perspective? What am I sulking for? It won't change anything. I need to do what I can. I need to focus and do what I can for this world I've come to cherish so much.

Unbeknownst to you, this interaction with Kein was the final nail to the coffin to strengthen your resolve.

"You've worked hard," you mumbled, though the silence helped project your voice. "I know it's hard to not blame yourself, but please acknowledge that you did all you could. No one could have planned it all out perfectly. And besides..."

You stopped for a moment.

"You're someone I look up to, part of the reason why I am this way." With a smile, you continued. "You inspired me a lot."

Kein blinked, his expression caught between joy and a there's no way that's true kind of disbelief. But of course, in true Kein fashion, the concept of someone lying and manipulating him barely existed, so he accepted your words with disbelieving gratitude.

"Were you part of the AEI when I was around? I'm sorry I didn't remember you! You should've said hi, I would have loved to be friends!"

"I was too shy."

If the person you replaced was an alternative version of who you are now, that answer wasn't far off. If it were the you who didn't experience any development, you'd never approach your idols with confidence.

"What! I would've never guessed."

"People change...?"

"I guess so, but I would've still liked to have met you earlier."

The conversation dipped in momentum there and a comfortable silence embraced the night. In turn, you embraced your storm of thoughts.

What if you had transmigrated to this world and met the Anomalous cast at a younger age?

If you grew up alongside them?

Would you have felt like less of an outsider?

Because even when everyone welcomed you, even if the SF felt like home, there was always that lingering feeling of loneliness—like a drop of red dye in clear water. It seemed subtle, but in your most vulnerable moments the clear water turns into a deep crimson.

"Kein?"

"Yes?"

This is going to sound cheesy, but I cannot think of any other way to put this.

"If you ever need to talk, I'm here, okay? You're definitely the kind of person who would keep things to yourself. Opening up feels intimidating, but I promise you'll feel a lot better. Oh, and don't make the argument that you 'could be a burden.' I'll actually feel more relieved knowing I helped you."

You offered a true, genuine smile. These were the feelings you were unable to communicate when you were behind a screen.

"I want you to keep smiling, and for it to not feel heavy." Your voice dipped into a whisper at the last few words. "I've always wanted that. I... I'm so sorry that I haven't been seeing you as—"

Your words were caught in your throat when you saw Kein's expression. Purple eyes were, almost beautifully so, glassy with unshed tears. Vulnerable. He was vulnerable. No matter how difficult things were, Kein had never shed a tear. Even if he was hurt, even if someone had hurt him—Kein never cried.

"Kein...?"

The sound of his name barely escaped your lips, as if speaking it too clearly might dissolve the delicate scene before you.

"Oh." He blinked, as if he had just gotten out of a trance. "I... Ah... Uhm?"

A trembling hand brushed the corner of one eye, then the other followed suit. One quick swipe, then another, as if hiding evidence of his vulnerability. However, his attempts were futile. Tears began to spill. Yet, instead of an expression of anguish or sadness, Kein was smiling as brightly as ever.

"I'm..." He laughed. "I'm crying!"

You couldn't respond, extremely caught off guard whatwereyousupposedtodoohgod.

"D-do you need a tissue—wait, I don't have any. Uhm." You frantically glanced around as if a solution would magically manifest on the found. "Maybe a hug?"

Kein's eyes lit up. "Can I?"

I would PAY you to hug me.

"Of course."

Kein wrapped his arms around you, burying his face in your shoulder with a contented sigh. You were stiff at first, hand awkwardly hovering over his back. Soon enough, you smiled and returned the embrace.

"Thank you."

Kein's voice came out a little muffled against your shoulder, but the sincerity behind it was clear. He was the first to pull away, and you noticed that the corners of his eyes were a little red. Catching you off guard, Kein suddenly cupped your cheeks and grinned happily. You rapidly blinked, and Kein laughed at your baffled expression.

"Sorry! I'm just—I'm so happy right now. I don't know what to do with myself. You're a really nice person, (Y/n). If anyone deserves to be remembered, it'll be you." Kein let go, taking a step back. "Whatever your goal is, I just know you'll be able to accomplish it. But! Please don't overwork yourself; you've been doing so much lately, even I get worried. Let's rely on each other, okay?"

Deserves to be remembered, huh?

For some reason—maybe it was because it was Kein who said it—you didn't feel bitter at his words. You felt... accepting. You felt like giving it your all, that this was the final stretch.

"Yeah," you replied. "Let's work hard."

In the original game, Kein disappeared after the fight with Shen. It was hinted that he had finally fallen completely victim to his curse, forgotten for real this time. It was tragically anticlimactic. No dramatic exit, just a haunting silence, as if he had slipped through the cracks of reality.

That won't happen. You will make sure it won't happen.

"Kein, you said you made a wish. That's how you became like this."

"I did!"

"Can you tell me a little more about it?"

Kein nodded. "Sure!"

Kein didn't question your sudden interest, nor did he catch the subtle shift in your gaze; it was thanks to the perfect blend of his naive nature and his trust in you. You listened with interest as Kein talked.

You smiled. Thanks, Kein. You've helped a lot.

Now you were a little closer to understanding what you needed to do to save this city.



===



"Oh, you're out?"

Amias was currently on a call with Caleb, halfway up the stairs.

"Yup, but I'm not busy. What's up?"

In the background, sounds of AEI members shouting practically blared through the phone.

"... Please get back to work."

"I am working!

"Caleb..." Amias sighed wearily. "I knitted a few plushies. I was calling to ask if you'd like one?"

"Pft, did you need to call me for that? Dump it in my room, door's unlocked—oh! Someone's being possessed. Give me a moment."

"I'll end the call."

"Wait, keep me company—"

Amias swiftly hung up on Caleb. It's so you don't get scolded by Elias.

When Amias reached Caleb's room, he whispered an "excuse me" before stepping inside. Ah, three steps in and Amias almost tripped over a lego set. Amias set the plush on the bed—a very messy bed.

"..."

Amias tied up Caleb's bed before leaving the room.

I've run out of supplies...

Amias had bought a new set of yarn, a set that ended up being used within a week. Honestly, whenever he knitted, hours could pass and he wouldn't even notice.

I wonder what (Y/n) is doing right now. It's still a little early in the morning, I hope she's resting well.

When Amias' head was not filled with knitting, it was filled with you. Amias wanted to ask more about your interaction with Rose, but you seemed exhausted when you came back. He didn't want to bother you. Did something bad happen? Good? Was it something he shouldn't over think?

Ahh, he was growing anxious again. Amias wanted to knit something to keep his mind occupied.

"I'm trying to get into contact with Rose. If I need your help, I'll ask. Oh, don't tell anyone. Only you know this."

Amias' apprehensive mind eased when he recalled your words. He smiled to himself. Even if you didn't trust him with everything, you trusted him with most things. It was a delightful thought. As long as he was the main person by your side, he was happy. Amias would make sure to become something worthy of such a privilege.

He decided to decorate the SF living room with the rest of the plushies he had made. A quick teleportation to his room, then a quick trip to the SF living room. It was empty and quiet, but the furniture and decor held everyone's personality. Amias placed the plushies on the bookshelf you frequently used.

Next, he took a look at the bulletin board full of pictures. Amias' gaze, unknowingly, always focused on your face.

"Oh... Right. Pictures of Finn are still here."

It was an unspoken consensus amongst the SF that it wouldn't be taken down. There were a handful of photos with you and Finn in the same picture. One that stood out was when you and Finn visited a cafe together. Just the two of you. Amias frowned at that. In fact, any picture with you close to someone else made him feel envious. Pictures of you, Sara and Jade trying on makeup together, coffee hangouts with Elias, arcade games with Caleb, training with Lyle, drinking with Cecil...

Amias didn't like it, but he wasn't the kind who would isolate you from others. You deserve to be surrounded by people who love you. Amias simply needed to be the closest person. After all, he was the one who appreciated you the most.

The door opened. A part of Amias hoped it'd be you, but his eyes narrowed when he saw who it was.

"Why..." Amias needed to pause to keep the hostility in his voice from spilling. "Why are you here, Finn?"

Finn offered an apologetic smile. If that smile was a gift, Amias would cast it aside with a cold gaze and he would be tempted to crush it under his shoe.

Finn's hand was already on the door knob. "I'm sorry, I'll leave."

"Wait."

Finn stopped. "Yes?"

"We haven't had a chance to talk alone yet."

Who was Finn to Amias? Truthfully, Amias admired Finn. He looked up to him. Finn had a natural ability take care of others, whether it'd be something simple as offering his jacket or lending a shoulder when life became stressful. Even after his betrayal was revealed, Amias knew Finn was still the same kind individual, there was simply more beneath his warm heart.

Though Finn treated everyone kindly, deep down, he was only truly concerned about the SF.

Amias understood Finn's emotions. After all, he wouldn't hesitate to take extreme measures if it involved you. If Amias had to smile for you, he would. If he had to endanger himself for you, he would. If he had to kill for you...

He would.

Although, just because I understand Finn does not mean I forgive him.

"I know you're aware of this, but (Y/n) has a goal," Amias said. "A goal I'll do anything to help her achieve."

"I respect and admire her determination, but I don't agree with her methods."

"You look like you're willing to sacrifice yourself for your goals."

There was a smile on Finn's face. Honestly, it looked tragic. "I am."

Amias remained quiet for a moment.

"(Y/n) won't let that happen, she would try to save you. That's just who she is—someone who refuses to hate, no matter what you've done. She'll always find a reason to sympathise with you. I love that about her, but I am also frustrated by it."

Amias glanced at the photos on the bulletin board, his gaze focused on you.

"However, I don't want her to change herself." Amias' tone was gentle, but his eyes remained cold when he turned his attention back to Finn. "You're in her way. She has enough to worry about, I don't need you to be another problem. If I just... render you incapable of stopping her, that'll be one less obstacle for her to worry about."

In response to Amias' steady threats, Finn seemed almost happy...?

"You're a kind person, Amias."

"..."

"You always think of others. You love the SF, you care for us," Finn continued. "However, you care for (Y/n) more. As long as she's safe, everyone else falls into place. You understand that she will only further endanger herself, right? My actions are to protect her as well. If she doesn't take action, then she won't endanger herself."

Almost. Amias almost considered Finn's words.

"Don't disrespect her ambitions," Amias glowered. "I will fulfil her wishes, not yours."

Amias had nothing left to say. He was ready to walk past Finn, end the conversation right there. And he would have if not for Finn's next words.

"You still haven't forgiven Lyle, haven't you?"

Amias' eyes narrowed ever so slightly.

Lyle.

Lyle and Amias had a brief conversation, clearing up what had happened between him and you. After that, things went back to normal—mostly. They trained together, and Amias even taught Lyle the basics of knitting. But the shift was clear. Amias was more guarded now. Lyle had hurt you once before, and if he did so again, Amias' patience would be far thinner.

"I haven't." Amias smiled. "I don't think I ever will. But that doesn't mean I hate him."

Besides, Lyle knew Amias would never forgive him. Lyle was fine with that. In fact, it seemed like he preferred it that way.

Honestly, was there anyone Amias could trust to protect you? Only himself, really. Amias wouldn't simply be an ally, he'd become everything you need him to be. Of course, you were strong on your own. However, you'd be better with an efficient tool. Him. It had to be him.

Amias summoned his holographic screen, one that only you and him could see. There was an ability he unlocked after reaching a milestone in his level. He hadn't told you yet, but he would soon. The skill had a long cooldown and drained a significant amount of energy. Making an inference from the description, it functioned like a simple yet deadly bullet, capable of paralysing its target.

Quick and simple.

Amias was a second away from activating the ability.

When Finn's caught off guard, I'll––

Footsteps. Amias withheld a disappointed sigh at the interruption. However, when the door opened, that disappointment turned into delight. Amias dismissed the holographic screen.

"Oh. Oh." You stood there, a wry smile on your face. "I didn't expect this."

Amias rushed over to your side—some may even say the sight was like an obedient puppy returning to his owner. When you smiled at Amias, he swore the room became a little brighter. He was away from you for far too long, he didn't realise how much he missed your presence.

"Have you eaten?" Amias asked. "Did you get enough sleep? I can make coffee—"

"Amias, I'm fine. Thank you." You giggled before turning over to Finn. "Actually, this works out. I wanted to talk to Finn."

Amias frowned. "Why? There's nothing to say to someone like him."

You were surprised at his words, but your gaze soon softened. You whispered to him, "I know you're worried, and I appreciate that. Stay by my side?"

Ah, that was enough for Amias' cheeks to grow warm and his thoughts to turn hazy. He didn't trust his words, so Amias returned your question with a timid nod.

"You wanted to speak to me?" Finn asked.

"I have a few questions I wanna ask. You owe me answers at the very least."

Finn nodded. "Alright."

"What is your dynamic with Eve?" you asked.

"Hm, it's a complicated topic. I don't know how Eve views me, but I'd say we're... similar to business partners, I suppose."

Amias glanced and saw your attentive expression, your thoughts were likely consumed by Finn and Eve. There was a desperate, clingy side of Amias that wanted to tell you to pay more attention to him.

"We grew up in the same town outside of the city, but didn't speak to each other," Finn said. "Eve never approached me and I did the same. I was too focused on my own tasks."

"Your own tasks?" you repeated.

"As the only one with decent exorcism abilities, everyone relied on me for protection. When things became dangerous, everyone would ask me to be their shield." Finn smiled. "I liked it, though."

"... Overworking yourself at a young age, and you didn't have proper education on how to use your abilities in a healthy manner," you said cautiously.

"You're sharp, (Y/n). As you can assume, I was ruining my health without realising it." Finn's smile only made his next words painfully jarring. "Eve checked me; my life is rapidly deteriorating, like a flame soon to be extinguished. I'll be lucky to live for another year."

Your breath hitched, and even Amias tensed.

"... Wait, wait," you mumbled. "That's not the full story."

Finn blinked in surprise. "Sorry?"

"The more you use your abilities, the worse things get, right? So if you stopped—"

"No." Finn's voice was firm, unwavering. "No matter what you say, I won't withdraw from being an exorcist. Besides, that would only extend my life by a few years. It's a waste."

"How could you say that your life is a..." You shook your head. "Finn, in those extra years we can figure out a way to save you."

"Will there even be a future?" Finn tilted his head, his gaze piercing. "Watching the city crumble as I stand idly by will kill me before my body does, (Y/n). Please understand. The best-case scenario is that I give it my all now, help the city achieve stability, and then became a weapon after I pass."

Finn spoke so little of his life that the weight of his words nearly slipped past Amias' mind. Even if Amias disliked Finn, he was growing concerned for the brunet. You and Amias exchanged glances.

You looked at Finn. "The others will be sad to hear this. Elias, Sara, and Caleb especially. They care for you."

Finn faltered, just a little. "They're kind people, so they will mourn someone as despicable as me." A chuckle escaped his lips, but it lacked humour. "But time will pass, and I'll become a simple memory."

You didn't respond right away; instead, you inhaled deeply, letting the weight of Finn's words settle. Then, slowly, a smile was on your face. One that made Amias' heart stutter. But it wasn't aimed at him; it was for Finn. Though envious, that feeling was overshadowed by his appreciation of the sight of your determined gaze and reassuring smile—the expression he treasured so much.

"Finn, what would your dream job be?"

Finn looked a little surprised at your question. "I never thought about what I wanted for the future because I can't ever picture myself in it. I don't have a dream job, but my dream future would be for everyone to be there."

"Well, that makes it easy for me." You pointed at Finn with a confident smile. "Let's make a bet. If I manage to save this city before you do, you'll retire and work at a bookstore for at least three months. Oh, and you'll also give me a discount."

"..."

"..."

"What?" Finn slowly blinked, letting your words sink in. Then, he burst into laughter. "That's—what? I'm genuinely at a loss for words."

You huffed, feigning exasperation. "So? Accept it?"

A minute had passed before Finn responded.

"I suppose so? Strange, why does my heart feel so light? I... I don't even know how you'll save this city. What you said was absurd, and yet..." The corners of Finn's lips hovered between a smile and disbelief. For the first time in a long while, his expression was free of worries, even if it was temporary. "The first thought I had was, 'I wonder which bookstore I should apply to?'"