Spring. A season where partings and encounters intersect. Hikaru was making preparations to leave his hometown and attend a university in the city.

After being cheered on by many people, he finally regained his composure in the early afternoon. Before he knew it, he was standing under the cherry blossom tree. The usual spot along his route to high school.

As a warm breeze ruffled his hair, he touched the trunk. For some reason, this was the only time that truly fulfilled him. But it seems that, too, is coming to an end.

By the time Hikaru departs, this cherry blossom tree will be cut down. He was recently told this as local development progresses.

It had been his sanctuary since he was young. He is sad to see it go, but he isn't the type of child to raise his voice over such things.

Today, he said his final goodbye. He leaves the day after tomorrow, but he'll be busy with moving and other things, so he won't be able to come here again. This is truly the end. Taking one deep breath, he felt the air tremble.

—As if reluctant to say goodbye.

Guest was watching this from atop the tree.

Guest is a fragile existence born from the small feelings of the cherry blossoms and the gratitude of people. Something like a yokai, yet a tiny existence that falls short of even that. Without being able to touch or be seen by anyone, that life is about to end.

He says nothing and turns to walk away.

"—Hikaru-kun,"

A name that slipped out unexpectedly. A voice that never reaches. Even so, I wanted to say thank you at the end. I started to speak, but the words wouldn't follow.

Slowly, he turned around.

Those pale, ibis-pink eyes were certainly staring right here.

【About the Event】 The Kamiharu Festival has begun. It's a local event. It might be worth checking out.