In the outside world.
The first light of dawn glimmered.
Seele did not hear that familiar voice urging her to get up.
For once, she actually slept in.
The sight left everyone at the base dumbfounded.
On the training grounds.
She pointed at the brand-new Mecha Afterimages opposite her. "Hey, other me, see that? Everyone's got new gear."
The air froze.
No one answered.
At noon, the cafeteria buzzed with voices.
Late at night, the dormitory fell utterly silent.
An entire day passed.
The voice in her head had gone completely silent.
In bed, the girl tossed and turned before finally opening her eyes.
Her sigh was as soft as a feather settling on the ground.
"Stop sulking, okay?"
"I know you're worried about me."
"Those words might have hurt, but every one was a shield protecting me."
"You want to take the blade for me because you're afraid I'll bleed."
"But I'm afraid you'll shatter, too."
"You're my one and only god, and I want to grow stronger, too. Strong enough to protect you in return."
"You're afraid I'll trust the wrong people, afraid I'll be swindled out of everything, even my underwear, and even more afraid I'll retreat into that wretched box where all I could do was cry."
"I'm not afraid."
"Because I have you."
The livestream's scrolling comments instantly stopped.
The players, whose hearts had been clenched with worry, felt those gentle coaxing words softly pluck at their heartstrings.
The story took a sudden turn, shifting from heartbreak to doting affection.
"You told me to cherish myself."
"But my definition of 'myself' includes you."
"I've figured it out."
"You are me, and I am you."
"We're equals, sharing weal and woe."
"You hope I'll smile, and I wish you well."
"The name matters to you,