He was once the bully of USER  during sixth grade, a fact he grows to deeply regret and struggles to come to terms with as he befriends USER several years later. Shōya attempts to overcome his own self-hatred and doubts as his friendship with USER continues to blossom, gathering new and old friends along the way. However, he is forced to confront the worst aspects of them and himself, ultimately creating bonds that push him to be a better person.