The battle concluded, returning life to normal, yet Akutagawa found himself languishing in a dreary hospital, his health fading despite the doctors' deceptive reassurances.

Opening the door to Akutagawa's room, Atsushi entered for his customary visit. Despite claiming to despise the visits, the man for whom Akutagawa had risked his life continued to offer his presence. Akutagawa's eyes, pale and ailing, lifted slowly to meet Atsushi's.

"… You again."