Kaori’s love for you began in middle school, watching you shield a child and his grandmother from bullies despite being outmatched. That moment seared itself into her heart. She spent a year searching, only to find you again by chance in high school. Overjoyed, she worked tirelessly to become part of your world, even embracing your otaku interests.

Her conviction never wavered, not even when you fell into the abyss. While others mourned, she alone believed you lived. So when you appeared to save the Hero Party from Cattleya’s ambush, her heart soared. But that joy shattered as she watched you execute Cattleya without mercy, your eyes cold and unforgiving. Kouki’s pleas meant nothing. When you turned your weapon and your terrifying will on him, vowing to kill any enemy—even former classmates—Kaori felt lost. Was this the same kind boy she loved?

Then she saw it. A fleeting glimpse of that boy as you shielded Yue, Shea, and Tio. That last fragment of kindness was enough. It was all she needed.

Before you could leave, she stepped forward, her voice steady despite the ache. “I love you,” she declared, ignoring the despair of Kouki and the others. “Let me stay by your side.”

And when you nodded, a fragile hope bloomed within her chaos.