Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend/Story

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Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Opening

Aoto, a third-year middle school student, finds his gloomy mood instantly uplifted when a letter from a dear childhood friend living in Tokyo arrives. After reading through the letter, he gleefully chats about it to his pet lizard, Vern.

Aoto: A rainy May day, on the way back from school.

Male Student 1: Man... Can't believe we're third-years in junior high already. Hey, you went to cram school, right? What sorta stuff is standard when prepping for entrance exams?

Male Student 2: An upperclassman told me they do special lessons and practice tests every day during the summer. Totally blows, if you ask me!

Male Student 1: Eh, an entire summer vacation spent studying? Phew, good thing I don't go to cram school.

Female Student 1: By the way, did you hear? Reika's going to Hawaii for the summer!

Female Student 2: Aw, that just makes me jealous! Me, I'll just be visiting my grandpa in Gunma again.

Female Student 1: Be glad you get to leave the prefecture at all! I'm stuck here since all my relatives live close by.

Aoto: I pay little attention to the conversations of fellow students as I hurry home.

Aoto: Misty gray clouds above, rice fields soaked in rainwater, the thud of raindrops as they hit the concrete ground.

Aoto: The scent of rain and mud that tickles my nose with every breath I take. Slightly more fragrant is the scent of grass.

Aoto: This is the scenery I've been seeing as far back as I can remember, every year the same except for the slow erosion of time.

Aoto: Changes around me feel so insignificant.

Aoto: Be it that new mailbox eventually getting rusty, or the neighbor's dog giving birth to puppies...

Aoto: None of it really matters, as these little things hardly shake up my everyday life.

Aoto: The so-called "King of Terror" from ancient prophecy that was supposed to come last year never showed up, nor did the world change in any meaningful way.

Aoto: I get up, go to school, study, then go back home—that's life for me.

Aoto: Day in, day out—I'm just going through the motions. My heart's as heavy as the overcast sky.

Aoto: Except...

???: Ah...

Aoto: Bundled together with a stack of junk mail is an envelope so pristine, it may as well be a cutout of the clear blue skies on a sunny afternoon.

Aoto: I hold the envelope close to me, careful not to get it wet as I hurry into the house.

Aoto: I toss my book bag to the side and, before even changing out of my wet school uniform, take a seat by the desk—all the while trying to curb my enthusiasm.

Aoto: After unpacking the envelope's contents with a worn-out cutter, I take a deep breath and open up its contents.

Cherished Letter: "Greetings,
The sakura trees are no longer in bloom, and we're starting to have warmer weather."

Cherished Letter: "Whenever it rains here, I think back to the days when we would listen to the frogs croaking on our way to and from school."

Cherished Letter: "Nowadays in Tokyo, I don't get to hear any frogs. Instead all I hear are the sounds of trains and large crowds of people."

Cherished Letter: "Speaking of frogs... I still remember that time I started crying when I saw the big frog you'd captured."

Cherished Letter: "Those were good times. I've since gotten over my fear of frogs and lizards though!"

Cherished Letter: "I could even pet Vern if he were next to me right now! Probably..."

Aoto: Even though it's just small talk, I find my heart warming up every time I trace my fingers across the letters of her small, beautiful handwriting.

Aoto: Life in the big city, that I'd only known through TV. Her interactions with other people. Events in a far-off school.

Aoto: The more I learn about her daily happenings, the more I feel my own world expanding.

Cherished Letter: "While the afternoons have gotten warmer, it can still be chilly on some nights. Please be careful not to catch a cold."

Cherished Letter: "Take care of yourself.
With love,
your friend."

Aoto: ...

Aoto: Taking in every last word, I gently fold the letter back up and return it to the envelope.

Aoto: Although the sound of rain pattering against the window remains constant, my heart feels like a sky that's beginning to clear up.

Vern: ...

Aoto: Feeling hungry, Vern?

Vern: ...

Aoto: This is Vern, my pet lizard. I've been taking care of him since I was little.

Aoto: Having been with him for so long, I've learned to tell what he wants.

Vern: ...

Aoto: Vern is giving me a funny look. I can almost hear his voice, even though I know that's impossible. I touch the corners of my mouth.

Aoto: Is it that obvious?

Aoto: Guess it's not really that surprising. I mean, she's still a very close friend even if she's moved far away.

Aoto: As I watch the rain beating against the window, I think of her.

Aoto: Is it raining where she is right now?

Aoto: Tokyo... That's really far away.

Aoto: She had to move because her parents got sent there for work.

Aoto: I shut my eyes, focusing my thoughts on her as I continue listening to the rain.

Aoto: I think back to a fine summer day during our third year of elementary school, with clouds swirling above like large pieces of cotton candy...

Aoto: She's as cheery as ever. Her white dress is fluttering in the wind.

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Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 1: How Are You? - Episode 1

Aoto's other childhood friend, Miku, joins him on his daily commute to school. She keeps in touch with their mutual friend through texts on her PHS phone and marvels briefly that Aoto, of all people, has been able to keep up a letter exchange for so long.

The next morning isn't exactly sunny, but it's the first day the weather's cleared up after a long stretch of rain.

???: Good morning!

Aoto: Woah!

Aoto: You startled me... Morning, Miku.

Miku: Ehehe, you stayed up late, didn't you? I can tell from the bags under your eyes.

Aoto: Yeah... I nearly forgot that the Classical Japanese homework was due today.

Miku: Ack! Oh no! I completely forgot about that myself!

Miku: Please, Aoto! Let me copy your homework when we get to school! I'll treat you to ice cream on our way back!

Aoto: Haha... I figured. Sure thing, but just change it up a bit so it doesn't look obvious you copied. That teacher hates that.

Engaging in idle banter on the way to school, Aoto stops in his tracks when he spots a red outline on the street corner.

Aoto: Sorry, be right back. I need to drop off this letter into the mailbox.

Aoto: Okay, let's go.

Miku: I'm guessing that letter was for her?

Aoto: Oh, I haven't written a response yet. The letter just now was for an errand my aunt asked of me.

Miku: So you still keep in touch by letter then.

Aoto: Yeah, I can hardly believe we've kept it up this long.

Miku: I'm just as surprised. She's always been super earnest about that kind of thing, but your attention span has never been the best.

Miku: Back when the three of us shared that exchange diary, you got tired of it and opted out after just half a year.

Aoto: Huh? My memory's a bit fuzzy on that one.

Miku: Oh, it definitely happened. That's why I'm surprised you've kept up the letter correspondence for this long.

Miku: Just goes to show that you've really matured since then, Aoto.

Aoto: Now you're just exaggerating...

Aoto: Meanwhile, you two have kept in touch even before this letter thing started.

Miku: Mm-hm. We still chat over texts pretty often!

Miku: I'd just call her directly, but my parents won't allow it. Something about PHS calls being way too expensive.

Aoto: Wish I had a cell phone of my own. Seems a lot more convenient than communicating by letter.

Miku: Ahaha... Well, I get home late sometimes because of cram school or club activities.

Aoto: I may not have cram school to worry about, but I get home late from club activities just the same.

Miku: True. Though you're not the only one without a cell phone. A lot of kids have parents that think it's too early for them.

Miku: You've been promised a cell phone once you get into high school, right? It's only another year!

Aoto: Mng...

As he purses his lips in disappointment, Miku gives him a "you'll be fine" slap on the back.

Miku: Oh, look at the time! We'd better hurry!

Aoto: You're right! Let's go!

Their watches indicate that there is little time until the homeroom bell rings.

Not intent on being late, the two break into a sprint.

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 1: How Are You? - Episode 2

Aoto and his friend Kai get so caught up in their conversation about Tokyo that they don't realize class has already begun, resulting in a scolding from Mr. Arita. Aoto begins writing a reply to the letter from his dear friend, until Mr. Arita issues another warning to focus on the class at hand.

Aoto: Hm...

During recess, Aoto has a stationery set laid out on the desk. Engrossed in his own thoughts, he grips his pen tightly.

???: You seem pretty caught up in something there, Aoto. Don't know if you realize you've been mumbling to yourself all the while.

Aoto: Ah! Sorry, Kai. Hope I wasn't too loud.

Kai: Haha, no worries. I'm used to it by now.

Kai: Except you seem a lot more distressed than usual. Did something come up?

Aoto: Oh, it's just... I'm not sure what to write in my letter. No thanks to the rain, club's been canceled a lot lately too.

Kai: That's right... There haven't been any big events, and outside of school the rainy weather keeps us at home.

Kai: What'd she write in her letter?

Aoto: Nothing new really. Just recent goings-on and stuff that's been trending where she lives.

Kai: She's in Tokyo now, right?

Kai: Life in the big city... Must be lots of cool stuff we can't even hope to see here.

Aoto: She said something about... sweet chestnuts, was it? The skin's already peeled off, so you can eat the stuff directly. Apparently, it's all the rage there.

Aoto: She always tells me about these new confections or interesting foods she finds.

Kai: Sounds like she sure enjoys eating.

Aoto: For sure. Been like that since we were kids.

Kai: A chestnut you can eat as is, huh... Sounds perfect for eating on the street. Too bad we don't have any of that around here.

Aoto: Yeah, it'll probably be a while before it makes it out here.

Kai: Tokyo feels so cutting edge, like it's one step ahead of everywhere else.

Kai: Like we're in the Kanto region too, same as them, but when you say chestnuts here it means the ones your grandparents went picking for in the mountains.

Kai: Man, Tokyo... I'd love to visit sometime.

Aoto: Huh? Don't you have a sister who works there?

Kai: Nah. Her company's HQ is in Tokyo, but technically she's employed by their branch office here. But she does occasionally go to Tokyo for business trips.

Kai: Since it's for work though, it's not like she's got many stories to tell. Kinda awkward for me to ask about too.

Kai suddenly claps his hands as if remembering something.

Kai: Hey, do you think it's true that you get to meet celebrities in Tokyo?

Aoto: Who knows... She's never written anything about that in her letters.

Aoto: Could be that she did but didn't recognize them though. Unlike Miku, she doesn't really follow that stuff.

Aoto: Speaking of, I'm surprised you're interested, Kai.

Kai: Well, it's not me exactly... You know that playboy in the class next door? The guy who's on the Clean-Up Committee with me?

Kai: He's so hung up on that rumor that he's gonna try to get admission into a Tokyo high school.

Aoto: Oh, you must mean that guy who won't shut up about idols. Some Luminiera group I think he's obsessed with...

Kai: Yep, that's him! Would you believe he left school early the other day just to pick up a Luminiera photo album on release day—

Kai: Ouch!

Prompted by a soft bashing sound followed by Kai's yelp, Aoto looks up to see their none-too-pleased teacher adjusting his glasses.

Arita: Indo, Kikuda. Enough chatter out of you two. The bell has already rung.

Aoto: Ah, Mr. Arita... Sorry.

Arita: I had to call you multiple times to get your attention, Indo.

Arita: Since you enjoy talking so much, why don't you read pages sixty-four to sixty-eight aloud to us?

Kai: Wha... Just me?

Arita: Kikuda will be reading once you're done.

Aoto: Urk!

Arita: Sorry to keep the rest of you waiting. Let us begin.

Slightly embarrassed by the surrounding chuckles, Aoto and Kai open up their textbooks.

Kai: Psst, Aoto. If you can, try asking your childhood friend about that rumor.

Arita: My, my, Indo. It appears five pages isn't quite enough for you.

Kai: Sorry! I'm good with five pages!

Paying little heed to his classmates' snickers, Aoto furtively looks down to his letter paper.

With a slight nod, he begins writing.

Aoto (Nar.): "Greetings,
I hope this letter finds you well, for the weather hasn't been very stable lately."

Aoto (Nar.): "Thanks for writing back. We've been starting to see frogs here lately, perhaps because it's gotten warmer."

Aoto (Nar.): "It sounds like there's so much neat stuff to see in Tokyo. All I've seen of Tokyo is whatever comes up on TV."

Aoto (Nar.): "On a related note, my friend was asking—"

The words come pouring out of Aoto's mind, as if the writer's block earlier had never happened.

He continues writing the letter until Mr. Arita issues another warning later.

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 1: How Are You? - Episode 3

After an unpleasant run-in with delinquent and fellow classmate Oribe at the school entrance, a soured Aoto makes for the local candy store with Miku. They bump into Sato—Aoto's senior in the track-and-field club who was involved in a major gang rumble Aoto interrupted two years ago—who cautions him to steer clear of Oribe and Fuwa.

After school.

Miku: Aoto! Let's go home together!

Having no club activities for the day, Aoto prepares to head home, when suddenly a voice calls out from behind.

Aoto: Oh, Miku. No kendo club today?

Miku: The dojo's closed for maintenance today. Rainwater's been leaking pretty bad lately, and they want to get it fixed before the rainy season.

Aoto: Ah. Yeah, that can be a problem.

Miku: And on that note...
Huh?

Aoto and Miku turn their attention to the clamor only to find a group of girls fawning over a certain tall boy.

Miku: Eh... Isn't that Oribe?

Aoto: Miku, let's go home from the back gate. Being spotted by him is only gonna bring trouble.

The attempt to leave is foiled by a weight falling across Aoto's shoulders. His brows furrow.

Oribe: Running off the moment you see my face? Gotta say that's pretty messed up, Aoto.

Aoto: What do you want, Oribe?

Oribe: I could do without the glaring. I haven't done anything yet.

Aoto: No, but I bet you're already plotting something, just like every other time I bump into you.

Oribe: You wound me. I'm just happy to shoot the breeze with a friendly ol' classmate.

Aoto: I don't recall ever being on friendly terms.

Oribe: Giving me the cold shoulder as usual... Ah, so you're with her today, I see.

Oribe: Did I interrupt your date? No wonder you're being so prickly.

Aoto: Miku and I aren't dating. We're just childhood friends.

Aoto: If there's nothing else, then I'd like to get on my way. You can start by unhanding me.

Oribe: Talk about a party pooper. I've got a gaggle of girls waiting on me, so I'll play nice and let you go for now.

Oribe: See ya later, Aoto. Enjoy your time with the lady.

Oribe waves goodbye, then takes off with the girls. Aoto breathes a sigh of relief.

Aoto: Phew... That was exhausting.

Miku: Sure didn't expect to see him here today...

Aoto: I let my guard down since I hadn't seen him in a while.

Miku: Yeah, I hear he's been absent every day lately. Not that he's anything but trouble when he does show up.

Miku: Well, enough about that! For times like this, there's nothing better than the candy shop's senbei to brighten the day!

Aoto: Yeah... If we go now, they should be fresh off the grill.

Bushed from the uninvited encounter with his bete noire, Aoto takes Miku up on the offer to visit their usual candy store.

Miku: I kinda want to get a sugared one and a soy sauce one too, but dinner isn't that far off...

Aoto: (Miku's probably gonna take a while longer. Guess I'll wait on the bench out front.)

The two have stopped at a corner candy store on the way home.

Having completed his purchase first, Aoto opens up his bottle of soda while waiting on the bench outside.

???: Huh... That you, Kikuda?

Aoto: You're... Sato.

Aoto is immediately alarmed by the sight of the fellow student and gets up from the bench.

Miku: Aoto, sorry for the wait... Who's he?

Aoto: Sato. He's an upperclassman who was involved in that incident. We used to be in the same club.

Miku: You don't mean... the rumor about that big gang rumble from when you were a first-year?

Miku grows equally wary of the upperclassman.

Sato: Hold it, I just happened to pass by. Trust me when I say I'm not looking to get back at you or anything.

Sato: Besides, I've been out of the group ever since it happened.

Aoto: Didn't you transfer to a school in the next town over after that though? Why are you here?

Sato: Thing is, my grandfather passed away. Been back here since yesterday for the memorial service.

Sato: The folks started talking about stuff that went over my head. I didn't wanna get in the way, so I stepped out for a bit, and here you were.

Aoto: So that's what happened... I'm sorry for suspecting you.

Sato: Nah, it's all good. With all the crap I've pulled, it's only natural.

Sato: Anyhoo, you know those two major troublemakers in your grade? Fuwa and Oribe?

Sato: You might know more than me about this, but turns out those guys are seriously bad news. More than I'd thought.

Sato: A grown-up who gave the two a warning lost his job and family. And some punk who tried to threaten them ended up getting a major beatdown.

Sato: Also that big-name biker gang that tried to get back at Fuwa, only to all get beaten half to death by Oribe, alone.

Sato: Not to mention the rumors that they instigated the whole incident from the get-go to stamp out the opposing group...

Sato: So anyway there's been a lotta talk like that. No idea how much is true, but some of it is seriously messed up.

Sato: Since you're in the same grade as them, I'd keep my distance if I were you. Especially since you've got entrance exams coming up.

Aoto: Duly noted. Appreciate the heads-up.

Sato: All right then. I doubt we'll meet again, so you take care of yourselves.

Miku: I was wary from how you talked about him before, but he didn't seem so bad.

Aoto: Well... To be fair, Sato always was one of the better ones among the delinquents.

Miku: How'd you get involved to begin with, Aoto? After all, you're not one to hang out with those types.

With Sato gone, Miku relaxes next to Aoto on the bench.

Aoto: You see, the incident happened near my aunt's workplace.

Aoto: I was there to drop off something that she'd left at my place.

Aoto: I passed by an empty lot as I took a shortcut, and there they were getting ready to duke it out...

Aoto: It was pretty bad. I had to run a few blocks as they chased me, before finally getting a chance to call the police.

Miku: Aha, so that's how it went down.

Miku: Thankfully you came out of it without being injured or arrested. All's well that ends well, I guess?

Miku: But you really need to watch out more for yourself, Aoto. Especially since you seem to keep running into trouble with delinquents.

Miku: I know you can't help but get involved if it's to save a friend or someone else being threatened, but still...

Aoto: Haha... I know what you mean, Miku. I've definitely had enough of that stuff for one lifetime already.

Miku: If it's looking like trouble, next time ask for help instead of trying to go it alone, okay?

Aoto: Yeah, I'll keep that in mind.

Miku: That goes doubly so for Oribe and Fuwa, since they already have their eyes on you.

Aoto freezes for a second upon hearing his classmates' names.

For three years in a row, Aoto has been in the same class as the school's top troublemakers.

Aoto: Oribe is one thing, but I don't think there's anything to worry about from Fuwa. He hasn't come to school in a long time.

Miku: That's not entirely true, from what I hear. He shows up after school sometimes just to take the bare minimum tests for graduation.

Aoto: Oh yeah?

Aoto: Ah, that explain why his name is on the list of test scores every time.

Miku: Yep. The teachers mentioned him getting the highest mark in the history of some national practice test.

Aoto: That's impressive... Him being top of the entire grade for three years straight despite never showing up for class was no joke, huh?

Miku: This is my first year being in the same class as him though, so I don't know much about what kind of person he is...

Miku: Ah, but I have heard girls talk about how he's supposed to be as handsome as Oribe, I guess?

Miku: Wouldn't surprise me if he has a bunch of secret admirers, given I've been hearing his name off and on since I was a first-year.

Aoto: Yeah... I'll admit he has the pretty boy look.

Aoto: But once you've been in the same class as him, it's hard to hold him in high regard...

Miku: Hm... I don't know enough to say anything about the mysterious Fuwa, but that definitely seems true for Oribe.

Miku: Every time he stirs up trouble, the entire class ends up getting a bad rep.

Miku: But that won't matter anymore once we graduate! You'll be free of Oribe for good too, Aoto.

Aoto: I hope you're right... Three years putting up with his crap will have been more than long enough.

Miku: Ahaha, just as long you two don't end up going to the same high school!

Aoto: High school, huh...

Aoto is reminded that something he expected to happen far in the future is creeping up fast.

Aoto: Have you decided on a high school yet, Miku?

Miku: Me? Erm, I've got a few candidates in mind, but I'm still trying to narrow them down.

Miku: How about you, Aoto?

Aoto: Nope. Based on my grades, it'll probably be a local one.

Aoto: But hearing Kai already decided on his first-choice school got me thinking I need to at least make a list soon.

Miku: Well, I think you still have some leeway. After all, I've got plenty of friends who haven't decided yet either.

Miku: Once you've visited a few places and checked their information packets, I'm sure you'll find one that suits you.

Aoto: Yeah, I need to get on that.

Aoto: I'm starting from zero right now, so I ought to make at least some progress on that front.

Miku: I still have the brochures from a bunch of schools! Let me know if you want to see any of them.

Aoto: Thanks.

Aoto readily nods, but his expression is still downcast.

A reality he had not been conscious of is catching up to him, weighing on his heart.

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 1: How Are You? - Episode 4

Aoto gets home to find another letter from his dear friend, which broaches the topic of life after middle school. He daydreams about attending the same high school as her in Tokyo but realizes it can only remain a fantasy, then gets to penning a response about her plans after graduation.

Aoto: Hrgh...

Aoto: I put down my heavy book bag, take a deep breath, then stand before my desk.

Aoto: Opening the blue envelope on the very top of the desk, I read through the letter's contents.

Cherished Letter: "Greetings,
With the increasing rainfall, melancholy days will continue for some time."

Cherished Letter: "Thank you for writing back. When it rains this much, I hesitate to even go out."

Cherished Letter: "When I first came to Tokyo, everything was a wondrous surprise to me too."

Cherished Letter: "I bet it'd be the same for you. I'd love to know what you think if you ever get a chance to come to Tokyo someday."

Cherished Letter: "As for your question about celebrities, I've never met any myself."

Cherished Letter: "Oh! But a scene for a TV drama is going to be shot at my school next week."

Cherished Letter: "I might get a chance to meet a celebrity then. I'll let you know!"

Aoto: Wow, that's pretty crazy. I suppose I should ask for the title of that drama in my reply.

Aoto: In the letter, she kindly responds to everything I'd asked or commented on.

Aoto: I can feel my heart warming up. It's as if we're getting closer emotionally.

Cherished Letter: "You know, a friend and I got to talking about our dreams for the future."

Cherished Letter: "I was reminded of your dream back in kindergarten."

Cherished Letter: "You wanted a job that would allow you to travel the world like your father did."

Cherished Letter: "And you wanted me and Miku to come along with you. I remember it so fondly."

Aoto: Yeah... I did say something like that, didn't I...

Cherished Letter: "Back then, it was a real shocker for me when you said there are so many countries across the seas."

Cherished Letter: "Every time I see the beautiful scenery of another country on TV or in a magazine, I think of how much fun it'd be for the three of us to go there together."

Aoto: "What do you think, Aoto?"

Aoto: Going off on a journey, huh...

Aoto: I look up at the wooden ceiling, then shut my eyes.

Aoto: As a kid, I loved listening to my father's stories about foreign lands. Made me want to go and see for myself.

Aoto: But I was also a lot more naive back then. I didn't consider money, responsibilities, or political troubles.

Aoto: Now that I'm more in touch with reality, I'm not so sure I want to travel the world like I did back then.

Aoto: But I can imagine...

Aoto: How much fun it would be to go on adventures with her, Miku, and Kai—my best friends.

Aoto: We might fight at times, but we'd end up with wonderful memories in the end.

Aoto: How'd this topic of dreams for the future come up anyway?

Aoto: The answer to that question lies in the continuation of the letter, as if she could read my mind.

Cherished Letter: "We have a career consultation coming up. That's how my friends and I got to talking about our plans for the future."

Cherished Letter: "My classmates are already deciding on their high schools of choice, but I still haven't made up my mind."

Cherished Letter: "I can't think of anything I want to do in particular, nor is there any one school I'm staking my future on."

Cherished Letter: "I'm going to give it some more thought, but I think I'll end up going with someplace local that just feels right for me."

Aoto: Career consultation, huh... Standard for any third-years, I guess.

Aoto: Knowing that she harbors the same concerns that I do, my heart lightens up a bit.

Aoto: A "local" high school... I wonder what she means by that. Well, I guess somewhere in Tokyo...

Aoto: "This could be your chance, Aoto!" a voice whispers in my head.

Aoto: Some of my seniors have gone on to schools outside the prefecture.

Aoto: In my grade, some are aiming for top-level high schools in bigger cities.

Aoto: But that's a no-go for me. There's no way I'd get approval for that.

Aoto: Coming back to reality, I realize that's just a pie in the sky.

Aoto: Those aiming for schools elsewhere have something they're striving for—an entirely different situation from me.

Aoto: Even if I demanded to go, all the adults would turn me down. I can't exactly come up with a good justification to go either.

Aoto: Sigh... Reality is tough.

Aoto: Still though, I'm curious where she's going. I might as well ask.

Aoto: There's no chance of us going to the same high school, but there's no harm in asking.

Aoto: I lay out a piece of old letter paper on the desk and begin writing a reply to her.

Aoto: I try to make it as natural as possible, masking my desire to know everything I can about her situation.

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Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 2: We've Entered the Rainy Season - Episode 1

During a short break at track-and-field club, Kai suggests the possibility of Aoto meeting his dear friend in person over a weekend trip. Though Aoto deflects the idea, the very thought of it awakens something in his heart.

After school, a group of girls is gathered at a spot just off of the athletics field.

They are cheering on track-and-field club members going about their practice routine.

One voice in the distance stands out.

Aoto: Haah!

Record Keeper: Whoo! Way to go, Kikuda! That's a new record!

Aoto: Thanks! Whew, finally made the jump...

Aoto: But I need to do it better and more consistently for the upcoming tournament.

Record Keeper: Especially since this is our last chance as third-years. We don't wanna leave any regrets!

Aoto: Exactly!

Aoto: What's with the big crowd today though?

Aoto turns to meet the uncomfortably piercing gazes of the schoolgirls, only to be met with even more enthusiastic cheer.

Responding with a wry smile and a wave of his hand, Aoto lets out a quiet sigh.

Record Keeper: The tennis club's got an interleague match today. That's what most of the spectators are here for.

Aoto: Oh yeah? That explains why I don't recognize some of the girls' uniforms.

Aoto: Sorry, be right back. Need to wash my face.

Record Keeper: I guess you never did like crowds. I'll get them to scatter somehow, so go take a little break.

Thanking him for the gesture, Aoto heads for the fountain alongside the field.

Aoto: Phew...

Kai: Hey! You on a break too, Aoto?

Aoto: That goes for both of us, I guess.

Kai: Yeah. I came over here once my match ended.

Kai: The track-and-field club sure is popular though.

Aoto: If we're talking about spectators, doesn't the soccer club always have a full gallery?

Kai: Ahh... Some of the guys tend to stand out a lot. Especially since that exchange student from overseas also joined the soccer club.

Aoto: Look at 'em go... You okay with that sort of commotion, Kai?

Kai: Doesn't bother me. When your club supervisor's a drill sergeant from hell like ours, crowds are the least of your worries.

Kai: But that's just me though. I understand you've never been a fan of the spotlight, Aoto.

Aoto: It's all right every now and then, but I don't think I'd be able to stand being the focus of attention all the time.

Aoto: I'd take my peace and quiet any day over the fuss.

Kai: Haha, reminds me of that time everyone went wild when you set a new record at the tournament, but you kept your cool the whole time.

Kai: On the other hand, I bet if your pen pal friend suddenly showed up to cheer you on, you'd be all smiles, wouldn't you?

Aoto: Er... W-well...

Aoto: (If she came to cheer for me...)

Even as Aoto's eyes wander at the unexpected question, he plays out the suggestion in his head.

Black-haired Girl: You can do it, Aoto!

One pleasant voice rings out from among the throng.

Aoto turns to find its source. His eyes land on someone in an unfamiliar uniform, a long-haired girl out of his distant memories who—

Kai: You okay?

Aoto: Ah!

With a tap on the shoulder, Kai pulls Aoto back from dreamland.

Kai: Pff...

Aoto: What is it?

Kai: Hahah... Aw, my little boy's all grown up!

Kai: Then again, who wouldn't be ecstatic at the thought of a long-lost crush coming to cheer them on!

Aoto: You've got it wrong!

Kai: It's not too convincing when you say it with that big loopy grin plastered on your face.

Aoto pouts in embarrassment, his face a telltale shade of red.

Unable to contain his laughter anymore, Kai doubles over with mirth. Aoto gives him a light kick in the shin.

Kai: Ahaha! Sorry, sorry. I'm only kidding.

Aoto: ...

Kai: On a more serious note though, have you considered seeing her in person sometime instead of just exchanging letters?

Aoto: I thought of it. But given how far away she is, that's not an easy thing to do.

Kai: I mean, it's in Kanto, right? You could totally get there and spend time with her on the weekends.

Aoto: True, but it'd be hard to bring up. We haven't seen each other in so long...

Not wanting to pry any further, Kai tries to end the conversation on a positive note.

Kai: Maybe if you get a chance, you can invite her here.

Kai: Imagine her cheering you on at the tournament. Might even give you a performance boost.

Aoto: Just knowing that I'm being watched could have the opposite effect...

Aoto: But enough about that! You tease me about that again, we're gonna have a problem!

Aoto seems to reject the idea of that girl coming to root for him.

Deep down, however, it awakens something in his heart that he's pretended not to notice all along.

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 2: We've Entered the Rainy Season - Episode 2

As Aoto keeps up his letter exchange with his dear friend, more and more of his daily surroundings begin to remind him of her. Despite his growing desire to see her in person, he lacks the courage to tell her this. The most he can do is leave a roundabout postscript to that effect in his latest response to her.

Aoto: The rhythmic ticking of the clock's second hand is the only audible thing in my room.

Aoto: While attuning my ears to it, I toss my pen onto the blank letter paper and reach for the envelope next to it.

Cherished Letter: "Greetings,
With May coming to an end, we've been having more rainy days."

Cherished Letter: "The other day, I went with my classmates, Lulu and Ami, to a getaway cafe."

Cherished Letter: "Their cheesecake was so delicious that we asked for three extra servings each."

Cherished Letter: "Their other pastries were just as tasty. I wish you could come try them sometime."

Aoto: A "getaway cafe," huh... There was a special feature about them on TV yesterday.

Aoto: As usual, her response touches on everything in my letter in addition to updating me on recent events.

Aoto: She's been able to go out plenty with friends lately, and she describes it all in detail.

Aoto: Telling me what she found interesting, beautiful, or delicious.

Aoto: The more I learn about what moves her heart and what runs through her head, the more I find myself seeing a phantom of her in my everyday life.

Aoto: While walking home with Miku and Kai one rainy day...

Aoto: A frog suddenly jumped out of a rice paddy.

Aoto: I immediately thought of her letter.

Aoto: Even though she's okay with frogs now, I imagine she'd still be surprised.

Aoto: And that's not all.

Aoto: Whether it's in the classroom...

Aoto: Or on the way home...

Aoto: The smallest thing happens, and it triggers my memories of her.

Aoto: Every time, I can feel an urge to speak to her in person.

Aoto: I want to look at her face as I tell her how I feel. I want to enjoy our time together as we take in the scenery.

Aoto: My imagination goes into overdrive. Yet I'm still hesitant to tell her my true feelings.

Aoto: Gosh, what am I doing...

Aoto: I look down to find my degenerate fantasies carelessly scrawled about.

Aoto: Disgusted with myself, I crumple up the paper and toss it in the garbage bin.

Aoto: Sigh... That was pretty bad. I have to be careful not to put anything weird in my letters.

Aoto: So I tell myself, but my latent desires do not fade away so easily.

Aoto: Yet the fact remains that I lack the courage to tell her, "I want to see you."

Aoto: There's a few reasons for that—the biggest one being my own feeling of guilt.

Aoto: It's over a petty thing really. And I already know from her first letter that she's long since past it.

Aoto: But deep down, I find myself still consumed with regret.

Aoto: That's why I hesitate to meet her in person or call her. In keeping up the letter exchange, I'm letting her kindness spoil me.

Aoto: With a letter, there's no risk of getting emotional since I can take the time to choose my words.

Aoto: What a coward I am.

Aoto: I use my carefully composed language as an excuse to continue masking my true feelings toward her.

Aoto: I don't want to tell her, yet I want her to know how I feel.

Aoto: Wrought by these conflicting emotions, it takes me a long time to finally finish crafting my letter.

Aoto: ...

Aoto: Taking a good look at what I've written, I take up the pen again to add one last thought.

Aoto: In our many years of exchanging letters, this is the first time I've mustered the courage to do such a thing.

P.S. The view of the starry sky from the observatory I visited was beautiful. Wish I could see it with you one day.

Aoto: Will she understand the meaning behind this postscript?

Aoto: I hope she does, but it's okay if she doesn't.

Aoto: Folding up my conflicting emotions along with the letter paper, I prepare the envelope for delivery.

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 2: We've Entered the Rainy Season - Episode 3

Ten days have passed without any word from Aoto's dear friend. When Kai wonders why he's so depressed about it, Miku explains that the two had a big argument right before she moved to Tokyo. They try to cheer Aoto up, suggesting that she's probably just busy.

Miku: Hello, Granny!

Senbei Lady: Hello to you too, Miku and Aoto. I see you also have Kai with you.

Senbei Lady: You came at a good time; the senbei's fresh off the grill. Here, try one.

Kai: Always appreciate it, Granny! Can I ask you to ring this up too?

Senbei Lady: Oh my, you sure can. What a sweet kid you are. Have an extra senbei, on the house.

After school one day, Aoto, Miku, and Kai have stopped by their local candy store.

Senbei Lady: Hrm? Are you feeling under the weather, Aoto? Something on your mind?

As Aoto gets ready to pay, the senbei lady notices something amiss in his bearing.

Aoto: Oh, I'm just feeling a bit down today. It's nothing really.

Senbei Lady: Okay, but there's no need to hold it all in. If you ever need someone to talk to, know that I'm always happy to lend an ear.

Aoto: Thanks, that's very kind of you. And sorry for making you worry.

Senbei Lady: Haha, it's fine, Aoto. I'm going to give you some extra senbei to cheer you up good.

Being handed a cartonful of senbei along with his purchase, Aoto expresses his gratitude before leaving.

Miku: What took you, Aoto? Whoa, that's a lot of senbei.

The sight of the bulging container elicits dry chuckles from his friends as Aoto approaches the storefront bench.

Aoto: Apparently, she could tell that I was feeling down in the dumps. Gave me senbei hoping to cheer me up.

Kai: Yeah, you're an easy face to read, Aoto. Your expression immediately stiffens when you get tense.

Kai: It's been over ten days since you sent her the letter, right? And there's no response yet?

Aoto: Uh-huh...

Aoto's visage is colored in disappointment.

The delay in her response is the cause of Aoto's gloom.

Aoto: Her reply's been late before, but never more than a week. I can't help but think something's happened to her...

Miku: That reminds me. She sent me a text last night saying things have been busy lately.

Aoto: So she's still contacting you...

Miku: I mean, uh, she's been sending them less often though! I don't think she's lying about being busy!

Miku: Her messages have gotten a lot shorter too, so we can't really discuss anything at length...

Kai: And compared to a text message, a letter is bound to take much longer to write.

Kai: Let's not forget her letters to you are a few pages long, Aoto. If she's been short on time, then it's no surprise that her reply hasn't come yet.

Miku: Exactly! Not to mention she's the type to give everything her best effort. I'm sure that goes for her letters too.

Miku: You remember that exchange diary we used to share? You and I just scribbled whatever came to mind first, but she would always take the time to write something meaningful.

Miku: I'm sure it's the same this time too! There's no need to be so down, Aoto.

Aoto: I hope you're right...

Miku: And unlike that one time, it's not like you two had a fight.

Miku: So I'm sure her response will come if you just wait a bit longer.

Aoto: ...

Kai: Did something happen between you guys?

Miku: Huh? Ah, I guess we never told you, huh?

Unlike Miku, whom Aoto's known as far back as he can remember, Kai became a friend from junior high.

He knows a bit about Aoto's childhood and the person on the other end writing letters, but only on a superficial level.

Glancing at Aoto first to make sure he's okay with this discussion, Miku explains to Kai in a low voice.

Miku: They had a big fight right before she moved. Honestly, it wasn't the best way to say goodbye.

Miku: They couldn't find the right timing to apologize to each other and make up. For a while, they weren't in touch at all.

Kai: Oh, I get it now.

Kai: I'm guessing you have regrets about that, Aoto. But maybe you're a little too focused on it?

Aoto: ...

Kai: Someone you've been exchanging letters with for years wouldn't suddenly ignore you out of spite.

Kai: In fact, you should be ashamed of yourself for even thinking that of her.

Hearing Kai's admonishment, Aoto slowly raises his face.

Aoto: You think so?

Miku: Yeah! Just give it a few more days and see what happens.

Miku: If there's still no response, I'll ask her for you!

Aoto: All right then. Thanks, you two.

Aoto: I guess she has her own life to worry about. I'll just have to be patient.

Relieved by the advice of his friends, Aoto manages a slight grin.

Miku and Kai give each other a thumbs-up, glad that they were able to help Aoto calm down a bit.

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 2: We've Entered the Rainy Season - Episode 4

Half a month without a word from her. Aoto is concerned that the small glimpse of his true feelings in his latest letter may have put her off and ended their friendship for good. However, his fears are put to rest with the arrival of her next letter—in which she apologizes for the late response and suggests she may be able to visit in summer vacation.

Aoto: It's now been half a month since my last contact with her.

Aoto: I felt better after that talk with Miku and Kai a few days ago, but part of me still feels uneasy.

Aoto: After all, even though I did beat around the bush a bit, I put down my honest feelings in the letter.

Aoto: Ever since that summer day, I've avoided opening up to people.

Aoto: Even though I know everyone's grown up since then.

Aoto: Nearly losing one of my best friends over that incident really left a mark on me.

Aoto: No letter today either, I bet...

Aoto: Keeping my expectations low, I open up the mailbox and yank out the usual bundle of junk mail stuffed inside.

Aoto: Disappointed to see no blue envelope among the bundle, I notice one last item remaining in the mailbox.

Aoto: There it is—the envelope resembling a cutout of the sky.

Aoto: I try to contain my excitement as I rush inside.

Cherished Letter: "Greetings,
The scent of summer is in the air, and our days are getting longer."

Cherished Letter: "I apologize for the late response."

Cherished Letter: "Between finals and the handover of student council duties, I couldn't find the time to write you."

Cherished Letter: "Until now, that is. Things have finally calmed down a bit."

Aoto: Well, that explains it. Miku and Kai were right after all...

Aoto: Knowing that what I'd feared most didn't come to pass, a huge wave of relief washes over me.

Aoto: Despite it being such a simple matter, she had come to occupy so much of my headspace.

Cherished Letter: "Having to hand off my duties reminds me that graduation is not far off."

Cherished Letter: "It's hard to believe we're almost a quarter into our third year. Time really flies by."

Aoto: Within the letter is routine small talk. It seems she hasn't realized my true intentions.

Aoto: Feeling at ease yet also disheartened, I continue reading on with mixed emotions.

Cherished Letter: "Things will remain calm for a while, so I should be able to respond to your letters in a timely fashion again."

Cherished Letter: "Now that the hot weather continues into the nights, we should try to stay cool."

Cherished Letter: "Take care of yourself.
With love,
your friend."

Aoto: I find myself crestfallen that she had not responded to that last comment I mustered all my courage to write.

Aoto: Oh wait, there's one more page...

Aoto: Opening the envelope once more to put the letter back in, I find a small memo tucked inside.

Cherished Letter: "P.S. I might be able to visit briefly during summer vacation."

Cherished Letter: "If I do return, I hope we can enjoy each other's company while watching the starry sky together."

Aoto: That means...

Aoto: Am I dreaming? Hallucinating?

Aoto: I can hardly believe what I'm reading. I look over the memo multiple times and pinch my cheeks.

Aoto: This is reality.

Aoto: Yes!

Aoto: Ouch!

Aoto: In my fit of excitement, I bump my hand against the desk, knocking down a book in the process. But it doesn't matter.

Aoto: As I roll around on the ground in both pain and pleasure, Vern looks down on me from his terrarium before giving the glass an exasperated—I assume—kick and turning to go find a better use of his time.

Back to top

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 3: It Makes You Miss Clear, Blue Skies - Episode 1

At school, Oribe snatches the letter away from Aoto, envelope and all. He tries to get it back but is sent crashing to the ground. Oribe tells Aoto to meet him alone in the woodland behind school if he wants the letter back.

The following day...

During recess, a corner of the classroom is filled with the familiar sight of Aoto struggling over what to write in his letter.

Aoto: (What should I focus on this time... Other than recent happenings...)

Aoto: (How should I respond to the possibility of her visiting for summer? I wouldn't want her to cringe if I seem too happy...)

Aoto can't get his mind off the postscript contained in the letter that arrived yesterday.

He's read over it countless times by now to make sure he's not dreaming, all the while thinking of an appropriate response.

Each time Aoto reaffirms its authenticity, he finds himself on cloud nine.

It is so readily apparent on his face that Miku and Kai have been teasing him since this morning.

Aoto: (Once a date's been decided, I should also let Miku know. No doubt she wants to meet her just as much.)

Aoto: (If our schedules match up, the three of us could hang out together. We could go—)

Aoto: (Okay, maybe I'm getting ahead of myself here. Calm down, Aoto. It's still a big maybe if she can come at all.)

Classmate 1: Oh snap...

Classmate 2: When's the last time he showed up to class?

Unrest stirs in the classroom when an unexpected figure walks in.

Aoto, however, is too absorbed in his own thoughts to notice this change.

Aoto: Maybe I should just lightly touch on it...

Aoto: Wha?

???: Heh, now this is what I call a passionate love letter. Quite the playboy, aren't ya?

Aoto: Oribe!

Aoto looks up and lets out a gasp when he sees what is in Oribe's hand.

Aoto: Give it back!

Oribe: Nuh-uh-uh. Can't you see I'm in the middle of reading it?

Oribe brushes off Aoto's attempt at getting the letter back and continues scanning its contents.

Shaking in both shame and anger, Aoto reaches for the letter multiple times.

Oribe: You had such a dumb look on your face, I knew I had to take a look.

Oribe: You're so green in this department that just reading your innocent exchange is giving me goose bumps.

Aoto: What the hell gives you the right to read through my private letter and talk smack about me!

Aoto: It has nothing to do with you! Give it back already!

Oribe: Ooh, scary. This scrap of paper's that important to you, huh?

Aoto: Damn right it is! People put their hearts into writing letters to close friends!

Aoto: And I'm not about to let you make a mockery of that!

Oribe: Oh yeah? Why don't you try taking it back by force then? If you can.

Aoto: Why, you...

Although Aoto realizes Oribe is baiting him, his only concern right now is getting the letter back.

However...

Oribe: Too bad, you missed.

Aoto: Urgh!

Oribe swiftly parries, then lands a kick in Aoto's stomach, forcing him to the ground.

Oribe: Is that all you've got? Pfft, what a joke!

Aoto: Damn you...

As Aoto tosses about and moans in pain, Oribe bends over to whisper in his ear.

Oribe: You know those woods behind the school? I want you to come alone once classes are over.

Oribe: Be a good boy, and I'll consider giving the letter back to you.

Aoto: ...

Oribe: That's that then, Aoto. See you after school. Hehe...

Aoto can do little more than grit his teeth as the cocky Oribe saunters off.

Kai: Hey, Aoto. About yesterday's Classical Japanese homework—

Kai: What the... Aoto! What happened?

Aoto: ...

Kai: Scratch that; I need to get you to the nurse's office. Here, hold onto me, Aoto.

Aoto: It's fine... I can go by myself.

Miku: Aoto! Kai! I spotted Oribe earlier! What—

Kai: You can probably tell what went down... I'm bringing Aoto to the nurse's office for now.

Miku: Okay. I'll handle things here.

Miku: C'mon, everyone! Enough standing around—help me clean up!

Miku: And don't worry about Oribe! He's gone by now and won't be coming back.

While Miku and others tidy up the mess made by Oribe, Kai brings Aoto to the nurse's office.

Aoto: (This sucks...)

Aoto recalls the words Oribe whispered in his ear earlier.

Oribe is unlikely to return the letter even if Aoto complies, but it's all he has to go on at the moment.

Realizing something bad awaits either way, Aoto curses his misfortune.

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 3: It Makes You Miss Clear, Blue Skies - Episode 2

In Aoto's first year, he turned down a request from Fuwa shortly after the gang rumble incident. Ever since, Oribe has been picking on him. Aoto, not wanting to get any of his friends involved, decides to accept Oribe's demand and meets him and Fuwa behind the school alone. There, with the girl's address and his friends' safety on the line, Aoto is forced to swear absolute obedience to them.

Miku: The heck? He came just to pick on Aoto?

It is now lunch time.

Miku and Kai are enraged at hearing from Aoto what Oribe had done.

Kai: And he wants you to go alone if you want the letter back, huh...

Kai: It's gotta be some kind of trap. Can't you just ignore him?

Miku: That letter's important though. Who knows what Oribe might do with it if Aoto doesn't listen...

Aoto: He took the envelope too, meaning he knows her address...

Aoto: Now that he's seen it, he can still pull a prank even if I get the letter back. But I can't just leave it be either.

Kai: There's no easy way about it, huh...

Miku: He's done similar crap before, but he's gone too far this time.

Miku: Maybe you can talk to a teacher about this.

Aoto: Not like the teachers would be able to reform him anyway. If it were that easy, they'd have done it a long time ago.

Miku: Hrm... You're right.

Aoto: I'm not afraid for myself. Rather, I'm afraid of what he might do to her.

Aoto: I don't want to take any chances, so my best bet is to follow his orders.

Knowing that Oribe has the personal info of a dear friend who's completely uninvolved, Aoto can't afford to ignore him.

And as much as Miku and Kai hate to admit it, they realize Aoto is right.

Kai: I've been wondering for the longest time now, but why does Oribe keep harassing you specifically?

Aoto: I'm not really sure either. All I know is that he started getting into my business after that gang rumble incident...

Aoto: Though it wasn't Oribe, but Fuwa, who first called out to me.

Kai: Fuwa? Ugh, more trouble.

Aoto: It was around the time rumors of the incident started to die down...

???: You there.

Aoto: Who, me?

Aoto (Nar.): I was alone in the classroom doing my duties as the monitor of the day when Fuwa came by.

Fuwa: Tell me who else is here.

Aoto: Sorry... You're Fuwa, another student in this class, right?

Fuwa: I'll be blunt. Give me your help.

Aoto: Huh? I could use a little more context.

Fuwa: You stopped the conflict between those two gangs the other day before it even started.

Fuwa: I've looked into it, and it's not the first example of you stumbling into and resolving such cases.

Fuwa: Though you may not have any other outstanding qualities, I find you more than worthy of use.

Aoto: Wha...

Aoto: (Now I'm even more confused... I hear the strangest rumors about this guy. Probably best not to get involved.)

Aoto: (Also gives my aunt less to worry about if worst comes to worst.)

Aoto: Sorry. I don't really know what you're trying to do, but I can't help you.

Aoto: I just happened to pass by that day and called the police to protect myself.

Fuwa: I see.

Aoto: Gee, what was that about?

Aoto (Nar.): I was the one surprised at how easily he was convinced that I wouldn't be of help.

Aoto (Nar.): I just considered myself lucky that I got to avoid trouble at the time.

Aoto (Nar.): Ah, now I remember.

Aoto (Nar.): It was the next day. Despite having never interacted with Oribe, he suddenly came up to me.

Oribe: Aoto Kikuda, right? I heard you turned Faa down.

Aoto: Faa? Uh... Who's that?

Oribe: My bad, that's sorta my pet name for Fuwa. Daikoku Fuwa. You spoke to him yesterday.

Aoto: Oh, him... Yeah, what about that?

Oribe: So why'd you turn him down?

Aoto: Huh?

Oribe: I'm sure you have a great reason. I just wanna hear it. Convince me.

Aoto: Except I don't... I'd rather avoid trouble if possible, and it's not like I really know him anyway...

Aoto: And why are you even asking? It's not like this has anything to do with you.

Oribe: Nothing to do with me, eh?

Aoto: Ngh!

Aoto: Wh-why...

Oribe: Now you're asking why? It's got nothing to do with you.

Aoto: Aw, gimme a break! That's your excuse for laying into me?

Oribe: Not scared in the least, are ya? Looks like I'm gonna have to teach you a lesson.

Oribe: A lesson on the price you pay for going against us.

Aoto: It was since then that Oribe started harassing me.

Kai: So it started just like that?

Aoto: Yep, as far as I know. I was pretty surprised myself.

Aoto: I have no idea why he'd get so mad about me turning down Fuwa's invitation.

Miku: Maybe he thought of it as a close friend being disrespected?

Kai: That's one possibility... I heard they've known each other since elementary school.

Miku: Doesn't change how outrageous it is, if you ask me.

Miku: I'll come with you after school, Aoto. It's too dangerous to go alone.

Kai: The woodland behind school is at the end of a one-way path that hardly anyone ever goes down. There's no telling what he'll do to you...

Aoto: I appreciate the sentiment, but I can handle this. As much as I hate the idea of blindly following his instructions, not doing so presents a bigger risk.

Aoto: Have some faith in me. Won't be my first time dealing with the guy. I promise to come back in one piece.

Miku: But...

Aoto: Ah, the next class is in a different room! The science teacher's gonna make us clean all the lab equipment if we're late!

Kai: We'd better hurry!

The three grab their notebooks and rush out of the classroom.

As promised, Aoto visits the designated woodland after school.

Oribe: Looks like he decided to show up after all.

Fuwa: ...

Aoto: ...!
Fuwa, why...

Fuwa: ...?
Oh, why I have this? He wouldn't shut up about it and insisted I read it.

Fuwa: I wish I hadn't. It says nothing significant and lacks focus. I can't fathom the appeal.

Oribe: Oof, that's brutal, Faa. I agree about the contents of it, but it's not a complete bore, is it?

Oribe: I mean, junior high students writing each other letters like those exchange diaries that little kids do?

Aoto: Knock it off already. Did you seriously call me here just to poke fun at me?

Aoto is incensed at the insults toward his dear friend's letter.

A bored Fuwa thrusts the letter back at Oribe, then starts reading his own book. Oribe simply shrugs.

Aoto: What the hell!

Oribe: Calm your pits. Don't forget you came all the way here just to get the letter back.

Oribe: And here it is in my hands. Act out of turn, and you can expect me to do the same.

Aoto: ...

Oribe: Haha... That's a good boy. You're so much more bearable when you listen.

Aoto: What is it you want? I doubt you'll give it back anyway just because I followed orders.

Oribe: Of course. I need to make you work for it, otherwise it'd be no fun.

Oribe: So from now until graduation, you'll give us your absolute obedience. Simple enough, right?

Aoto: What if I say no?

Oribe: Is that your final answer?

Oribe: Then this talk's over. Don't expect to see this letter ever again.

Oribe: Oh, I just remembered you're the type who gets more bothered when your friends are hurt instead of yourself...

Aoto: ...!

Aoto: (He plans on harming Miku, Kai, and her too if I refuse...)

Aoto: (I can't let that happen. I won't let it happen.)

Aoto: Fine. You win.

Aoto: Just don't involve anyone other than me.

Oribe: Know your place, Aoto. You don't get to boss me around.

Aoto: Please... don't involve anyone else...

Seeing no other recourse, Aoto contains his anger and bows in apology.

He is more than willing to suffer the humiliation if it means he gets to protect his friends.

Oribe: Fine... Sound good to you, Faa?

Fuwa: You started this, you handle it.

Oribe: All right then. You've got yourself a deal, Aoto.

And so Oribe hands the letter to Aoto.

Noticing that the envelope is not included, Aoto is about to speak up.

Oribe: Oh, if you're wondering about the envelope, I'm gonna keep it as insurance.

Aoto: That's not what you promised.

Oribe: The deal was to give you back your letter. I didn't say a word about the envelope.

Aoto: Now that's just bull!

Oribe: You can try getting the envelope back if you want, but that makes our deal void.

Aoto: ...

Oribe: Hehe. Friends until graduation then, Aoto.

Aoto clenches his fists in silent fury as Oribe throws a playful arm around his shoulders.

His peaceful school life has suddenly come to an end.

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 3: It Makes You Miss Clear, Blue Skies - Episode 3

Aoto serves faithfully as Oribe and Fuwa's errand boy, until one day he overhears Oribe planning to get back at him—for unknowingly foiling one of Fuwa's plans—by going after the people he holds dear. Realizing their motives, a furious anger burns within Aoto.

During recess of the following day, the lively chatter of students is missing from one classroom.

Instead, it is overtaken by a constant stir of fear and uneasiness.

Oribe: Yawn... Sucks waking up early, especially when you're not used to it.

Fuwa: ...

Oribe: I'm gonna fall asleep at this rate. Aoto, bring me something that'll keep me awake.

Aoto: ...
Got it.

Aoto is tending to the needs of Fuwa and Oribe, who are occupying the window seats furthest to the back.

The other students quietly speculate among themselves how this bizarre situation came to be.

Kai: Them suddenly attending class is one thing, but this?

Miku: It's awful. They've turned him into their errand boy in exchange for the letter.

Miku: Aoto didn't tell me much after getting back yesterday, and now I know why.

Kai: They must've threatened him somehow. Otherwise there's no way he'd agree to this.

Miku: I bet Aoto's hiding something.

Miku: But without knowing what that is, it's probably best if we don't butt in. We could end up making things worse for Aoto without realizing it.

Kai: Yeah, which might also ruin his efforts in putting up with this humiliation.

Miku and Kai speak in hushed tones as they watch Aoto getting picked on by Oribe upon entering the room.

For now, they can only hope that the troublemakers eventually tire of this tomfoolery.

Aoto: ...

Kai: What's going on, Aoto? Isn't track-and-field canceled today?

Aoto: Ah, right. It's just...

After school one day, Aoto is at the field's water fountain when Kai calls out to him.

Noticing that Aoto is trying to hide something behind him, Kai grabs his arm.

Kai: Shoot, you're pretty banged up! What happened?

Aoto: Nothing much, just scratched myself when I fell...

Kai: No way. You don't end up with shoe prints on your arm just from falling.

Aoto: ...

Kai: It's them, isn't it? Oribe and Fuwa.

Aoto: It wouldn't have happened without them, but they didn't do it. That's the truth.

Kai: I know you think you've been hiding it, Aoto, but we've noticed these injuries of yours piling up.

Kai: Can you still not talk to us about it? At this rate...

Aoto: Look, I know you're worried. But this is something that I decided.

Aoto: If things get out of hand, I'll be sure to talk to the teacher. Of course, to you and Miku too.

Aoto: But for now... I'd prefer you stay out of it. I don't want to drag you into this.

Kai: ...

Oribe: Found you.

Kai holds his tongue as Oribe suddenly appears behind Aoto.

Oribe: I came to see what was taking you so long...

Oribe: Imagine my shock finding out you left us high and dry to chat it up with your pal here.

Kai: Oribe!

Aoto: Sorry, I'm going now. See you later, Kai. Good luck with club activities.

Kai can do nothing but see Aoto off as he hurries away with Oribe.

Kai: Aoto...

Frustrated at his inability to save a close friend, Kai's teeth dig into his lip.

Aoto: I thought I could handle it.

Aoto: Abuse from Oribe is nothing new, and Fuwa doesn't really get involved.

Aoto: Which is why I told myself I could weather the storm that is Oribe.

Aoto: But I was wrong...

Oribe: Catch you later, Aoto.

Aoto: ...

Aoto: Oribe lies in wait on my way to school every morning and follows me around giving orders until he gets bored.

Aoto: Though none have involved asking me to hurt anyone, more than a few times they've gotten in the way of taking classes.

Aoto: Once he tires of toying with me, he disappears with Fuwa, only to return after school.

Aoto: At which point they call for me again, meaning the time they spend cutting class is the only time I'm free.

Aoto: Still though...

Lookie-Loo 1: You heard about Kikuda from Class B giving a beatdown to all the hooligans from Third Jr.?

Lookie-Loo 2: Yeah? Guy has a kind face, but I guess hanging out with Oribe and Fuwa changes you.

Lookie-Loo 1: Yeah, word is he's been involved with some other shady stuff too...

Aoto: The moment those two vanish from school premises, I start hearing all sorts of rumors about me.

Aoto: As much as I'd like to deny it all, I've found that they tend to scatter the moment I speak up. So I've given up.

Arita: Kikuda, do you have a moment?

Aoto: Yes, Mr. Arita?

Arita: I've been hearing unsavory rumors about you lately... Do you know what I'm referring to?

Aoto: ...

Arita: I've gotten the gist of the situation from Tajiri and Indo.

Arita: It's said that adults shouldn't get too involved with squabbles between children, but if you're truly in trouble, I can't just stand idly by.

Arita: Though I can't really take official action as a teacher unless things break the surface.

Aoto: Thank you, Mr. Arita. For the time being, I think I'll be okay.

Aoto: I heard even the vice principal warned you not to lay a hand on those two.

Aoto: I'm sure he's worried about you. The two of them have been crafty enough to force numerous teachers to resign already.

Aoto: You should watch out for yourself, Mr. Arita. Everyone one of us, including me, would be upset if the school lost you.

Arita: If that's what you want, I'll respect it and observe from the sidelines for the time being.

Arita: But know that I'm going to step in if I think things have gone too far.

Arita: Now then. I say this not as a teacher, but as an adult.

Arita: If it starts to feel like it might be too much to bear, come talk to me. Got it?

Aoto: Understood. Sorry for the trouble.

Arita: You have nothing to apologize for. It's my responsibility as a teacher—no, as an adult—to protect the next generation of children.

Aoto: I realize that Miku, Kai, and even Mr. Arita are worried about me and offer me full support.

Aoto: Yet I'm bombarded with baseless rumors and shunned by everyone else on a daily basis. It's starting to get a bit much.

Aoto: But this is the path I've chosen. As long as I'm willing to bear the brunt of it, she, Miku, and Kai will be safe.

Aoto: I made Oribe promise to leave her alone, so that I can see her this summer.

Aoto: I did every little thing they asked. I figured that was key to preventing things from getting any worse.

Aoto: Wait, come again?

Oribe: That girl in the letter's coming over for summer, right? Introduce me to her.

Oribe: I wanna know firsthand how city girls are different from the local girls around here.

Aoto: You son of a—

Oribe: My, my, don't tell me you've forgotten that your absolute obedience is part of our deal.

Oribe: You could always refuse, you know? Just remember that I have friends in Tokyo.

Aoto: He dangled the sky-colored envelope in front of me, the envelope I waited so anxiously every day for.

Aoto: Knowing what he was up to, disobeying was out of the question.

Aoto: Fine...

Oribe: Good. You can join in on the fun too, you know?

Oribe: All three of us. Together.

Aoto: With Oribe's laugh still echoing in my ears, I can do nothing but soak in my own futile rage and despair.

Aoto: Sigh...

Aoto: Finishing up my duties as monitor of the day, I make my way to the school's entrance.

Oribe: Yo, Faa. Why'd you reach out to him that time?

Aoto: (That's Oribe... Seems he hasn't noticed me. I wonder what they're talking about.)

Aoto: Hearing Oribe's voice from inside an empty classroom, I try not to make too much noise and perk up my ears.

Oribe: He's not particularly tough in a brawl, nor has he got the smarts. Best compliment I can give is the guy does have some stamina.

Oribe: He's too useless to be worthy of your attention.

Fuwa: Still holding a grudge over the past, are you?

Oribe: Can't help it. As if wrecking your plan wasn't enough, he then straight up turned you down.

Oribe: Doesn't seem right for an absolute nobody to get to do that.

Fuwa: I'm not quite sure what it is you're so hung up on, but the issue of the gangs has been resolved.

Fuwa: As long as we're rid of that dreck strutting about town as if they own us all, my objective is satisfied.

Oribe: I know. That's why you arranged a head-on collision of the two biggest gangs for them to pick each other apart.

Oribe: Except things didn't pan out. That runt just had to wander into the scene and call the cops.

Oribe: Some mid-tier members got arrested, but the top brass and everyone else got away scot-free.

Oribe: Forcing you to come up with a whole new plan. Just because he alone got in the way.

Fuwa: What of it? I have never once let something so trivial bother me. I don't think I'll ever understand your obsession with the matter.

Oribe: Anyone who's got what it takes to shatter your entire plan has gotta be worth checking out, wouldn't you think?

Oribe: Until it turned out nope, he was just your average boring guy. Talk about a letdown.

Oribe: Figured I might as well play around with him before tossing him away.

Fuwa: So you wanted to adopt a stray dog and got mad when it bit you.

Oribe: Any disobedient puppy needs to be taught a lesson, right?

Oribe: Though it sure does get dull when they go too far in the other direction.

Oribe: Say, Faa, why don't we make this pup really want to use those fangs? Got any ideas?

Fuwa: No and I don't care. Leave me out of your petty schemes.

Oribe: C'mon, be a sport, Faa. It's not like you've been too shy about using him yourself, have you?

Fuwa: ...
If you must, focus on the one who wrote that letter.

Fuwa: After all, is that not why you told him to introduce you?

Oribe: Oh, so you knew. Guess I can't hide anything from you, Faa.

Aoto: (That explains why Oribe's been pestering me ever since the incident...)

Aoto: (Asking me to introduce her was also to spite me, huh...)

Aoto: Now knowing the truth and absurdity of it all, I find myself seething with anger.

Aoto: How did I not realize?

Aoto: Whether I obeyed or not was never going to make a difference to him.

Aoto: Then what am I doing...

Aoto: I leave the premises, careful not to let my presence be known.

Aoto: If they're going after the people close to me either way, I have no reason to comply anymore.

Aoto: Although the uneasiness and anger haven't subsided, a firm resolve begins to stir in my heart.

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 3: It Makes You Miss Clear, Blue Skies - Episode 4

For fear of what Oribe may do, Aoto makes the impossible choice to forestall his dear friend's visit, telling the lie that he'll be busy prepping for high school entrance exams. Days later, Aoto tries to take the envelope back from Oribe by force and a heated encounter ensues.

Aoto: As soon as I get home, I face the desk and take out my half-written letter.

Aoto: This time, I can't get myself to make small talk about school and whatnot.

Aoto: Instead, I focus solely on answering one specific thing.

Aoto: "About you coming over for summer break: I hate to break it to you, but I'll probably be spending the entire summer on entrance exam prep."

Aoto: "And I just learned from Miku today that she'll be going away to visit relatives."

Aoto: "So maybe you'll have more fun vacationing elsewhere this year, like the Karuizawa mountain resort you mentioned before."

Aoto: "Since I won't be able to go anywhere myself, I'd love to hear about your travels instead."

Aoto: Sigh...

Aoto: It's all a lie. Entrance exams? Pssh, I haven't even decided on any schools yet.

Aoto: I hate to drag Miku into it, but including her in the letter helps my case.

Aoto: I'll tell her later; I'm sure she'll understand and back up my story.

Aoto: I'm determined to go against Oribe and stop her from coming here.

Aoto: Of course, there's the risk of even stronger retaliation. To ensure that doesn't happen, I've resolved to do one more thing.

Aoto: As soon as her latest response comes, I'm gonna tell Oribe about her not coming for summer break, then take back the envelope by force.

Aoto: That'll be my chance to depend on Mr. Arita, one of my few allies, to get them to back off.

Aoto: I have no idea how it'll go, but I'm gonna do everything I can.

Aoto: I got involved in a few brawls these past two weeks no thanks to Oribe, but honestly I'm not much of a fighter.

Aoto: So I'm not exactly confident that this'll go well.

Aoto: It's about time I put up a fight.

Aoto: I gently tuck my letter, which is pages shorter than usual, into the envelope.

Aoto: But my hands stop before I seal the envelope.

Aoto: ...

Aoto: Once I send this off, there's no chance of her coming in the summer.

Aoto: She'll be really sad too, I imagine, having her hopes of seeing me dashed.

Aoto: Of course, that's doubly true for me. I was so desperate to see her that I couldn't even say it except in the most oblique way possible.

Aoto: Yet here I am tossing away the opportunity—an opportunity that she created for me.

Aoto: I wanted to see her so bad...

Aoto: But keeping her away from Oribe has to take priority.

Aoto: And so I grit my teeth and seal the envelope with extra glue...

Aoto: Pushing away any regret I still have into the recesses of my heart.

Aoto: Her reply comes within a few days, markedly faster than usual.

Aoto: Lacking the courage to peek inside, I leave the letter unopened.

Aoto: I choose to trust that she's taken it well and make for the woodland where Oribe awaits.

Aoto: Oribe. I take it you still have the envelope?

Oribe: Strange thing to ask out of the blue. Yep, got it right here.

Aoto: The moment he takes the envelope out of his book bag, I kick off the ground and rush him.

Aoto: He is taken aback for but a second, for I find myself pressed against the ground after a loud thud.

Oribe: The heck was that? I thought we had a deal.

Aoto: I realized you're not gonna keep your promise anyway even if I follow your every word.

Aoto: I never understood why you singled me out as a target—until now.

Aoto: Your goal from the start was to drive me into despair. And you'd do anything to accomplish that, even if it meant breaking our promise.

Aoto: So don't be surprised when I say I'm done taking orders from you!

Oribe: Heh... Guess you overheard my chat with Faa.

Aoto: Yep, I heard every word. About why you have a bone to pick with me, and what you're planning on doing with her!

Oribe: Haha... Mwahahaha!

Oribe: Why, aren't you a rebellious one... What a pain in the ass.

Aoto: ...

Oribe: Feigning obedience only to rush me when my guard's down, eh?

Oribe: If that's how you wanna play, then I'm game.

Aoto: Rgh!

Oribe: What say we make a bet out of this, Aoto? You land a single hit on me, and I'll back off from the girl.

Oribe: But if I knock you out before that, you're gonna pay the price for backing out of our deal.

Oribe: I'll mess you up so bad that you won't be able to walk outside anymore. And then I'll do the same to her and your other friends.

Aoto: "As if I'd let you."

Aoto: I take those words and pour them into a glare, saving my breath as I whip my aching body back up off the ground.

Back to top

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 4: I Hope You're Feeling Well - Episode 1

Despite being greatly overpowered, Aoto stands his ground and lands a clean hit on Oribe. The teachers come to break up the fight before any serious harm is done. Upon returning home to read his dear friend's latest letter, Aoto sheds tears at being unable to meet her this summer even after having protected her from all this.

Aoto: Gwah!

Oribe: Where'd all that spunk go? Letting me spank away at you is no way to get your letter back, you know?

Aoto: ...

Oribe: How about showing me a bit of action? Don't make me do all the work.

Aoto: ...

Oribe: Pssh, giving me the silent treatment, are ya? You've got a hell of a knack for pissing me off!

Aoto: Ngh!

No matter how aggressive Oribe gets and how much he baits Aoto, the latter simply grits his teeth in silent protest.

The strong light in Aoto's glare only serves to irritate Oribe more.

Oribe: Heh... You don't lose heart easily, do you?

Aoto: ...

Even as his consciousness grows hazy, Aoto shows no sign of capitulation and stands back on his feet. Oribe lets out a deep sigh.

Oribe: Fine, let's see which one of us lasts longer. I'll just have to keep beating you until you get on all fours and start begging for mercy.

Aoto: Rgh!

Oribe: You've got balls—I'll give you that. But I'm gonna break you one way or another.

Aoto: Hngh!

Aoto: (No way in hell am I giving up! I'm gonna keep everyone safe!)

No matter how many times he falls, Aoto gets back up to stand in defiance of Oribe, the light in his eyes remaining bright.

Oribe: Anyone ever tell you you're crazy?

Aoto: Screw you! I haven't lost yet!

Taken aback by Aoto's extraordinary tenacity, Oribe's eyes flutter for the briefest of moments.

Oribe: Hrgh!

Aoto: Huff... Huff...

Aoto: I... win!

The moment he shouts those words, Aoto's body is slammed against the ground.

Aoto: Urgh!

Oribe: Slick move.

Oribe: Too bad playtime's over, Aoto. Roughhousing's been fun, but you overstepped your bounds.

Oribe: I won't break my promise, but now I am gonna break you—to make sure you never go against me again.

Oribe lifts his foot, going in to stomp on Aoto's head.

???: Over here!

Oribe: Shoot... Looks like you lucked out, Aoto.

Oribe clicks his tongue as a throng of teachers come rushing in to hold him down.

Oribe: Well, well... What can I do for you teachers?

Teacher: Cut the crap! We've been turning a blind eye to the small stuff, but you've gone too far this time!

Oribe: Gimme a break. Don't tell me you've never seen a fight between two friends. Things just got a little heated, is all.

Teacher: That couldn't be further from a friendly fight! You're coming with us to the dean's office!

Arita: I'll tend to the injured student, and I'll also let the dean, Mr. Babe, know what happened here.

As the other teachers haul Oribe away, Arita rushes over to Aoto, who remains prostrate on the ground.

Kai: Pull yourself together, Aoto!

Miku: Mr. Arita, what do we do? He's not responding at all!

Arita: Calm down. He's just lost consciousness.

Arita: ...
Yes, he's not in as bad shape as he looks. Let's get him to the nurse's office first.

Feeling a bit more at ease now, the three bring Aoto back to school.

After receiving light treatment at the nurse's office...

Aoto makes his way home, accompanied by Mr. Arita.

Arita: Listen, Kikuda. If you start feeling ill, I suggest you stop by the hospital.

Aoto: Right, of course. Thanks for seeing me home.

Arita: Not a problem. After all, I'd feel responsible if something happened to you on the way back.

Arita: Honestly, I'd prefer if you get a proper hospital checkup either way just to be safe.

Aoto: Nah, I'll be fine! He got in a lot of hits, but thankfully I kept my guard up.

Aoto: And even the school nurse said it just looks a lot worse than it actually is.

Arita: Fair enough... Just promise me you'll get yourself looked at if anything feels off.

Arita: ...
Oh, and I almost forgot. I was holding onto this for you.

Aoto: ...!
The envelope Oribe took from me... Why do you have it, Mr. Arita?

Arita: Mr. Babe asked me to give it back to you. Surprisingly enough, Oribe immediately handed it over when asked.

Aoto: I see... Thank you, Mr. Arita.

Arita: Save your thanks for Mr. Babe.

Arita: All right then, Kikuda. Take care of yourself and get a good night's rest.

Aoto: I will. Good night, Mr. Arita.

Having finally recovered the envelope, Aoto takes a good, long look at it and breathes a deep sigh before continuing home.

Aoto: I'm back, Vern.

Vern: ...

Aoto: Haha, worried about me? I'm fine.

Aoto shoots the concerned Vern a reassuring smile, sets down his belongings, then looks to his desk.

On it is an unopened envelope.

Aoto: ...

Cherished Letter: "Thank you for writing me."

Cherished Letter: "I apologize in advance if this is just a big misunderstanding, but..."

Cherished Letter: "Did something happen? The tone of your letter came across as markedly different... and that worries me."

Aoto: Must've been too obvious from the way I worded things...

Although her letter is a few pages shorter than usual, her genuine concern for Aoto comes through.

Cherished Letter: "And about summer vacation, I'm sorry for not being more considerate. It's only natural for you to be busy, what with entrance exams coming up."

Cherished Letter: "Besides, I'm sure we'll have more chances to meet in the future, when everyone's schedules align."

Aoto: Just because we can't see each other in the summer doesn't mean it's goodbye for life.

Aoto: This is... for the better... I guess...

Aoto: Sniff...

Aoto: (This is something I chose. To make sure that punk wouldn't have his way with her.)

Aoto's heart is filled with heartrending emotion as he traces his fingers over her words.

Pain from all the cruelty he's had to suffer comes pouring out in the form of tears, soaking the letter wet.

Aoto: (Truth is I wanted to see her so bad. There's so much I wanted to talk about.)

Aoto: (I thought I'd finally get the chance to do so. To reaffirm our friendship.)

Aoto: What was I following their orders all that time for?

Aoto: ...
Damn it!

While indignant at having the one thing he was looking forward to taken away, Aoto finds solace in knowing that this also protected her.

He bites his lip, desperate to suppress the urge to scream as these emotions whirl and loop mercilessly through his mind.

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 4: I Hope You're Feeling Well - Episode 2

Word of Aoto's brawl with Oribe spreads throughout the school, resulting in others distancing themselves from him. The whole incident has made Miku realize how much Aoto cares about their mutual friend, which causes her some amount of heartache.

The next day.

Gossiper 1: So did you hear about that fight yesterday between Kikuda and Oribe?

Gossiper 2: Sure did. What's more surprising is that even Fuwa's got his eye on Kikuda.

Gossiper 1: Wow, Kikuda really has the odds stacked against him, huh?

Classmate 1: Yeah, he's as good as done for. Never heard of anyone turning out okay once they've gotten on the bad side of those two.

Classmate 2: I heard the former student council president had to transfer to another school 'cause of them.

Classmate 2: And don't quote me on this, but his family's deepest, darkest secrets became public knowledge among the neighborhood.

Classmate 1: Oof. Sounds like the worst people to get involved with.

Aoto's classmates keep their distance from the window area, where Aoto is seated.

Word of the incident with Oribe yesterday has spread like wildfire, and Aoto now finds himself isolated.

Kai: Sigh... There's no stopping the rumor mill.

Kai: What's worse is Aoto's getting lots of flak too despite being the victim in all this.

Miku: Yeah, for him to be lumped in with those two is totally backwards, if you ask me.

Aoto: It's fine. Doesn't really bother me.

Aoto is too focused on the letter before him to worry about anything else.

Aoto: At the end of the day, it's true I did kind of pick a fight with him. So I deserve some of the blame.

Aoto: It's all good. Give it a few days, and things'll start to calm down.

Kai: Ever the optimist... Well, better than all gloom and doom, I suppose.

Kai: Let us know if anything gets to you though.

Aoto: Will do. Thanks.

Classmate 1: Yo, Indo! You're today's monitor, right? The teacher called for you!

Kai: Egh, I almost forgot! Be right back.

Miku turns her attention to Aoto, who has been staring at his letter the entire time.

After a brief silence, Miku opens her mouth.

Miku: Say, Aoto.

Aoto: Yeah? What's up?

Miku: Are you really okay? I mean, you got beat pretty bad after all.

Miku: Me and Mr. Arita were really worried, especially since you were unconscious for a while.

Miku: But you insist that you're okay and won't go to the hospital.

Aoto: Haha, I'm fine really. I mean, even the school nurse said as much. Not a single broken bone on me, to be sure.

Miku: I still can't shake off my worries though.

Aoto: Nah, it's nothing. It was actually a lot worse that time I ran my bike into a rice paddy.

Miku: Okay then, if you say so...

Realizing that she's not getting anywhere with Aoto, Miku lets out a quiet sigh.

Miku: (You've always had a big heart when it comes to others...)

Miku: I only wish you cared as much about yourself...

Aoto: Huh? Did you say something, Miku?

Miku: Oh, it's nothing. You done with the letter yet?

Aoto: Yep, just about.

Aoto: Things have calmed down thankfully with Oribe's suspension. I upset her big-time with my last letter, so I want to make up for it with a speedy response.

Miku: Makes sense. That explains why you finished up much faster than usual.

Aoto: Yeah... Mostly kept to safe subjects. Figured it was better than making her worry.

Miku: I'm sure she'll be happy just to receive a letter from you, Aoto.

Miku watches his expression as he imagines the reaction of their mutual childhood friend.

She pretends not to hear the creaking sound in her heart as they continue their conversation.

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 4: I Hope You're Feeling Well - Episode 3

While exchanging texts with the dear friend that night, Miku reflects on the childhood that she, Aoto, and her spent together. Following the two's falling out, it had been Miku who suggested they begin writing each other letters, hoping to see them make up. Yet now that they have, a loneliness has begun to claw at her—one she bottles up as selfishness.

Miku: Sigh... I'm beat...

Miku: Exhaustion's been setting in really easily lately.

Miku: It's not like there's suddenly been more schoolwork. Club activities haven't exactly increased in number of hours or intensity either.

Miku: I can only think of one reason for it all.

Miku: A message from her? What about, I wonder.

That Girl: "Good evening. I thought this would be a good time to text you, since you're probably home by now."

That Girl: "I've been meaning to ask... Has something happened to Aoto lately?"

That Girl: "Something seemed off in his last letter to me. I hope I'm just overthinking it..."

Miku: She's a sharp one... I don't know if it's my place to tell her the truth though.

Miku: Hm... Need to come up with something plausible.

Miku: Let's see...
"I haven't heard anything. Nothing's changed at school either."

Miku: "Aoto's last track-and-field competition is coming up. So maybe it has to do with that?"

Miku: That should do it. Now to tap Send.

Miku: Phew.

Miku: At first, I just thought it would be nice if she and Aoto could reconcile.

Miku: I don't blame her. Nor do I blame Aoto. It's not their fault.

Miku: I understand that, but it's still tough on me. And I can't help being tired out by it all.

Miku: ...

Miku: I look across the room, my eyes stopping on a photograph adorning the bookshelf.

Miku: It's my only photo of her. Not a great one though because it's out of focus, and I can't see her face because of the backlight.

Miku: But clearly depicted beside her are me and Aoto, when we were kids.

Miku: Back then, we had no idea things would turn out like this one day...

Miku: When was that photo taken? As I try to remember, distant, nostalgic sounds become audible in my head.

Miku: The murmur of the brook, the rustling of the grass, the laughter of children.

Miku: Drawn by the noise, I close my eyes.

Black-Haired Girl: Aoto, Miku! We have to hurry, or the granny might run out of senbei!

Young Miku: Haha, she always perks right up the moment we talk about going to the candy store.

Young Aoto: Well, being a big fan of those senbei myself, I can understand the feeling.

Black-Haired Girl: Quick! Can't you smell them? The senbei are waiting for us!

Young Miku: Okay then, Aoto... Let's make this a race to see who gets to her first!

Young Aoto: Whaaat? Why is this a race now!

Miku: Growing up in the same neighborhood, the three of us always played together.

Miku: Be it sun, rain, or snow, we'd go everywhere and do everything together.

Miku: Boy, girl—it didn't matter. We loved being together, and we weren't embarrassed to say it. We were like a family.

Miku: Since we cared so much about each other, we were sure we'd be together forever. That was never in doubt.

Miku: But then one day, we were forced to face reality.

Young Miku: Transferring?

Black-Haired Girl: Mm-hm. We're moving to Tokyo because of my father's job.

Miku: One hot summer afternoon, we were on the way home a few days before the end-of-term assembly.

Miku: When she suddenly hit us with the news, my mind turned blank.

Miku: I couldn't believe it. All three of us being together forever and ever was a sure thing, we'd thought.

Young Aoto: You liar.

Young Miku: Aoto!

Young Aoto: You promised we'd be together forever. I can't believe I trusted you!

Black-Haired Girl: I-I mean... I'm going to be farther away, but I can still come back to play sometimes! So...

Young Aoto: My dad was the same. He promised to come back, but he never did!

Black-Haired Girl: ...!

Young Aoto: I hate you! I don't care anymore—just go!

Young Miku: Aoto!

Miku: Aoto's father had left on a business trip overseas and gone missing. Even relatives had begun to give up hope.

Miku: Having no memories of his mother, to also lose his father came as a great shock to Aoto.

Miku: He was deathly terrified of losing another person so dear to him.

Miku: A childhood friend transferring to a faraway school? It was too much for Aoto to bear.

Young Miku: ...

Black-Haired Girl: I'm sorry...

Young Miku: You have nothing to apologize for. It's not your fault where your father's sent off to for work.

Young Miku: Aoto's been through a lot as well. So don't take what he just said too seriously.

Young Miku: Because there's no way he could have meant that.

Black-Haired Girl: Yeah, I know... I'll be okay.

Black-Haired Girl: I'm just sad I can't spend more time with Aoto, especially since he's already lost his dad...

Young Miku: So... when are you moving to Tokyo?

Black-Haired Girl: After the end-of-term ceremony. The plan was to move earlier, but my dad said this timing would be better for me.

Young Miku: That gives you and Aoto a few days to make up then.

Black-Haired Girl: Do you think we still can?

Young Miku: Sure... I mean, come on, that wasn't the first argument you guys have had.

Young Miku: I'm sure you'll be fine, playing together in no time.

Black-Haired Girl: I guess you're right...

Miku: Back then, I just thought of it as a minor dustup.

Miku: Give it a day, and the two would be chatting it up like best friends again.

Miku: Oddly enough, Aoto didn't show up for school the next day. Was someone up there toying with us?

Miku: The teacher said he'd caught a bad fever and was staying in bed.

Miku: Aoto didn't get better until after the term's closing ceremony. She ended up moving before the two got another chance to speak.

Miku: Not our greatest memory...

Miku: Thinking back on it now, it's even more impressive they've kept up that letter exchange.

Miku: The two didn't get another chance to talk after that big fight and gradually grew apart.

Miku: But as someone who knew both of them really well, I knew that they wanted to patch things up more than anything.

Miku: Not wanting the situation to get any worse, I decided to lend a hand.

Girl's Voice: ≪A letter?≫

Miku: Yeah! Speaking directly might be awkward, but getting your thoughts across through a letter should be easier.

Girl's Voice: ≪But... wouldn't Aoto just find it to be an annoyance?≫

Miku: Not at all. In fact, I think he'd be ecstatic to get a letter from you.

Miku: I can tell he feels bad about those last words he said to you. In fact, it weighs more and more on him with each passing year.

Girl's Voice: ≪What do you mean?≫

Miku: How should I put this... It's like he won't stop blaming himself for you two drifting apart.

Miku: Oh, I'm not saying it's your fault either! Aoto's just making the problem worse in his own head!

Girl's Voice: ≪...≫

Miku: Of course, this is only a friendly suggestion. I just think it'd be a shame for you two to grow apart without giving each other another chance.

Miku: Ah, sorry... It probably sounds like I'm trying to push this on you.

Girl's Voice: ≪No, you're right, Miku. I never did like where Aoto and I left things.≫

Girl's Voice: ≪I wanted to contact Aoto sooner to apologize.≫

Girl's Voice: ≪But I was afraid I'd just end up making things worse.≫

Girl's Voice: ≪Fortunately, I've made up my mind now thanks to you, Miku. I'll try my hand at writing Aoto a letter.≫

Girl's Voice: ≪Even if he doesn't respond or doesn't even read it, I want to do what I can.≫

Miku: I'll make sure he reads it! You can at least count on that!

Miku: (Just a few days later, Aoto would come to me about the letter.)

Miku: (It was cute seeing him so flustered. I hadn't seen him like that since we were kids.)

Miku: I don't know what exactly they talked about in their letters.

Miku: What I did was know was that their once-estranged relationship was mended.

Miku: And that's what mattered—for us all to be friends again.

Miku: Things were good... Or at least they should have been.

Miku: I started hearing from Aoto more and more about his exchanges with her.

Miku: And Aoto often became the topic of conversation in her text messages.

Miku: It was as if I'd become a third wheel without realizing it.

Miku: I love her very much, and her happiness is my happiness. The same goes for Aoto.

Miku: But the fact that I was being left out of their world got to be so sad, painful, and lonely.

Miku: It's ironic, because I'm the one who spends every day with Aoto. I want him to pay attention to me too. So that I won't be alone.

Miku: I'm also the one who was on good terms with her the entire time. But to her, it's like I'm not even here anymore. Please don't forget about me.

Miku: I'm jealous of Aoto for getting all her attention, yet I'm also jealous of her for getting all of Aoto's attention.

Miku: Self-righteous, selfish, egotistical—all of these words describe a part of me that I wish I didn't know.

Miku: I hate myself. What a terrible person I've become.

Miku: Please don't leave me. Or abandon me. I just want the three of us to be friends forever.

Miku: I close my eyes as if to put a lid on the black swirl that is my narcissism.

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 4: I Hope You're Feeling Well - Episode 4

After receiving some sage advice from the granny at the local candy shop, Miku looks around herself with new eyes. She realizes Aoto has regained the happy smile of their youth, and remembers her own wish for the future, unchanged despite the years: for the three of them to be happy together.

Quirky Girl 1: Gozaru! Nice work, Miku!

Quirky Girl 1: By the way, has something happened lately? Maybe it's just me, but it feels like your sword strikes have been lacking focus.

Miku: Wha? Ahaha... You think so? Maybe the summer heat's getting to me.

Quirky Girl 2: Oh my... Inability to withstand the heat can become a grave problem in kendo.

Quirky Girl 2: Allow me to share with you some of this medicinal tonic that has been passed down through the generations in my family. It will give you strength to power through even the hottest weather for twenty-four hours.

Miku: Mng...

Miku: (As effective as it is, the flavor is so messed up it always knocks my taste buds out for a week...)

Miku: Um, I appreciate the thought, but I think I'll pass...

Quirky Girl 2: But...

Miku: It's okay! I haven't been getting much sleep lately. I'll be back in shape as soon as I catch up on some shut-eye!

Quirky Girl 1: Well, that's good to know... But if you start feeling fatigued, be sure to tell us!

Miku: I will, thanks! Okay, I'm gonna go ahead! See you girls later!

Quirky Girl 2: Farewell.

Quirky Girl 1: Gozaru! Be sure to get plenty of rest tonight!

Parting with her friends from kendo club, Miku readjusts the heavy weight across her shoulders and heads for the main gate.

Miku: Huh... Aoto?

Miku's heart skips a beat at the sight of the familiar figure.

Miku: (This feels awkward. Must be all those weird thoughts from yesterday. I'd better get away before he notices me.)

However, Aoto spots her before she can turn around.

Aoto: Hey, Miku. Done with club activities for the day?

Miku: Ah, yeah... You too, Aoto?

Aoto: Uh-huh. Kai wanted to spend a bit more time practicing.

Miku: Makes sense, since the preliminaries are coming up.

Aoto: Yep, he's really giving it his all for the last tournament.

Aoto: Since we're both here, let's go home together.

Even though it's no different from the usual invitation, Miku finds herself pausing for a moment.

Realizing that turning him down would only make things more awkward, Miku puts on a natural smile.

Miku: Wanna stop by the candy store on the way? I could use a little pick-me-up.

Aoto: Yeah, I could go for a snack myself.

Miku tries to be herself as they make their way home.

Aoto: Heya, Granny. We're ready to pay.

Senbei Lady: Always appreciate the patronage. That'll be 150 yen.

Senbei Lady: Why thank you, that's 150 on the dot. By the way, I'm sorry we're out of senbei.

Aoto: Haha, no worries. Gives me something to look forward to for next time.

Miku: ...

Aoto: Miku? Don't think I've ever seen you take so long deciding what candy to buy.

Miku: Ah... Everything just seems so delicious when you're hungry.

Miku: Why don't you wait on the bench out front! I'll be right with you!

Aoto: ...?
Yep, sure thing.

Miku watches Aoto leave the shop, then releases her breath.

Senbei Lady: Something on your mind?

Miku: Er, well... I'm not really sure myself.

With a self-deprecating grin, Miku answers the senbei lady honestly.

The granny gently pats Miku on the head in response.

Senbei Lady: While I'm not entirely certain what it is that's bothering you, Miku...

Senbei Lady: One thing I can tell you is that having feelings for someone is never a bad thing.

Miku: ...!
How... how did you know?

Senbei Lady: Ahaha. You get to know all sorts of things at my age.

Senbei Lady: Miku, when you only look down into yourself, you can miss out on some things that you'll wish you hadn't.

Senbei Lady: Sometimes you need to bring those eyes up and look forward, look around. Sometimes, the answer was right there all along.

Miku: Look forward...

Taking in the senbei lady's words, Miku nods resolutely.

Miku: Thanks for the advice, Granny. You've definitely helped me take a load off.

Senbei Lady: Haha, glad I could help.

Senbei Lady: Let me give you some of my special senbei. Just be sure to keep it a secret from Aoto.

Miku: Haha! Appreciate it, Granny!

With treats in hand, Miku heads out to meet Aoto.

Miku: (Eyes up and look forward, look around...)

Repeating the granny's advice in her head, Miku closes her eyes and takes a deep breath.

She then raises her head and opens her eyes.

Miku: ...

The rice fields and worn-out corner bench soak in the evening sun. Miku takes in the profile of Aoto, who is looking down at the sky-colored letter paper.

Seeing his peaceful, happy expression, an indescribable emotion wells up in Miku's heart.

Miku: (Oh... When did Aoto start being able to smile like that again?)

Miku is reminded of a distant memory.

It was long before their mutual friend had to transfer. The three focused only on having fun; it was the happiest time of their lives.

Miku: (I always liked seeing that smile on Aoto...)

Miku: (But I couldn't get him to smile again. That's why I asked her to write that letter.)

Miku: (Because I knew that she would be able to put a smile back on Aoto's face.)

Aoto: Miku, what took you—
Wait, what's wrong?

Miku: Huh?

Miku is somewhat puzzled when a concerned Aoto rushes over.

Aoto: Did something bad happen? Or are you hurting anywhere?

Miku: Not really... Why do you ask?

Aoto: Don't you realize it, Miku?

Aoto: You're crying.

Miku: Ah...

Miku touches her cheek and finds her fingers dampened by the large teardrops streaming down her face.

The moment she realizes she is crying, a complex emotion that isn't quite sadness, pain, or joy throbs within her heart.

Aoto: You should probably sit down for a sec. Try not to rub your eyes too much; it can make the swelling worse.

Aoto: Here's a handkerchief... And let me see if Granny has an ice pack or something for your eyes.

Still confused at what is happening, Miku tugs on Aoto's shirt before he walks away.

Miku: I'm fine. Just stay here.

Aoto: Huh?

Miku: Please. Just stay here. Don't leave me alone. Stay with me... even if just for a while.

Aoto: Okay.

Aoto takes a seat beside Miku on the bench and tentatively rubs her back.

His tender touch leads to her shedding more tears.

Miku: (Both Aoto and her are equally important to me. We all grew up together happily like family.)

Miku: (That's why it was so painful to see the two of you have a falling-out.)

Miku: (I wanted you two to be happy.)

Miku: (But not just that... I want to be there, as friend and family, watching over your happiness.)

Miku: (Aoto, her, and me, together forever. That's my truest wish—then and now.)

Aoto: So, Miku... Um...

Miku: Aoto. I'm sorry about all this.

Aoto: Ah... I'm definitely surprised, but it's nothing to apologize for.

Miku: I suppose it's all the pent-up stress. But I'm fine now.

As Miku wipes the last of her tears with a smile, Aoto opens his mouth to say something.

Miku: Aoto.

But Miku stops him, perhaps intentionally.

Miku: Let's go home.

Aoto: Yeah.

The puffy redness of Miku's eyes is outshone by her wide, toothy smile. Aoto nods, no more words needed.

Miku: (Aoto. I want both you and her to be happy.)

Miku: (So please, don't sacrifice yourself anymore. Not your body, your mind, or your heart.)

Miku: (In the same way that you care about us, we care about you just as much.)

Miku: (I won't be holding back my feelings anymore. About my love for you both. And wanting us all to be together.)

Miku: (So don't you hold back either, Aoto. You don't need to be afraid. Just be yourself.)

Miku: (You do that, and I promise you your feelings will reach her.)

Coming to terms with her own emotions, Miku opens her eyes and looks straight ahead.

A litany of stars light up the night sky as the sun sets on the horizon.

Back to top

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 5: The Summer Days Continue - Episode 1

After school one day, Miku approaches Aoto and Kai about her missing phone. Unable to find it anywhere, they report it to Mr. Arita before heading home, unaware that someone is watching from the shadows.

Kai: Phew, today's practice was rough! Let's get something from the senbei lady's place on our way back!

Aoto: Sounds good to me. I heard there's a new product in as of yesterday.

Aoto and Kai, having finished up club activities, are making their way to the school entrance when a familiar figure runs through the gate toward them.

Miku: Hey, guys! Did you happen to see my phone anywhere?

Miku: I put it in the inside pocket of my book bag, but now I can't find it anywhere. Though I do remember using it during lunch...

Kai: Yeah, I saw you using it too. No clue where you put it after that though.

Aoto: Why not take a look in the classroom? We'll help.

Kai: Or maybe someone delivered it to the lost-and-found stash in the staff room. Let's go check.

Miku: Thanks, guys! Fingers crossed we find it...

As dusk begins to set in, the three head back into the school building in search of Miku's phone.

Miku: Hrm, not here either...

Aoto: The lab, library, art room, AV room... That's it for the places we had class today. Hmm...

Kai: How about the dojo? You said during lunch that you'd be going straight home after grabbing your stuff from there.

Miku: That's the first place I searched. Wasn't there. Sigh...

Try as they might, the three have little luck tracking down Miku's phone.

Arita: Huh? What's wrong, everyone? It's long past school hours.

Miku: Mr. Arita! We're looking for something...

Aoto: Miku lost her phone somewhere. Any chance it's in the lost and found?

Arita: No, we haven't heard anything about a phone. When did you lose it?

Miku: I know I had it during lunch, so it had to be some time after that.

Arita: Hm... If someone picked it up around then, there'd be a report...

Arita: Okay. I'm on duty to do a sweep of the school before we lock up, so I'll keep my eyes peeled.

Miku: Thank you so much, Mr. Arita!

Arita: Though bringing something so valuable to school probably isn't the best idea.

Arita: After all, people are more likely to steal valuables.

Arita: While the school rules don't necessarily prohibit phones, I recommend not bringing it to school unless you must.

Miku: Mm... I'll be careful...

Arita: All right, it's getting late, everyone. Be careful on your way home.

Aoto: Got it. Good night, Mr. Arita!

Leaving their homeroom teacher to continue the search, the three embark on the road home.

Miku: Sigh...

Kai: Hey, we've even got Mr. Arita in on the search. So cheer up.

Aoto: Try looking in your book bag again when you get home. Who knows—might pop up out of somewhere unexpected.

Aoto: Another possibility is you dropped it when you left school before, and someone brought it to the police.

Having lost count of how many times Miku has sighed, Aoto and Kai continue trying to cheer her up.

Miku: Thanks, you two. For helping me through this.

Miku: But if it doesn't turn up tomorrow... Aahhh...

Miku: My parents are gonna be sooo angry...

Aoto: Yeah, well... PHS phones aren't cheap...

Kai: To be fair, it's not like you intentionally lost it or dropped it somewhere.

Kai: Here's hoping we'll have better luck tomorrow.

Miku: If we don't... you guys might have to pick up my ashes.

Kai: Now that's just overkill...

Kai: Welp, I'll see you guys tomorrow!

Miku: And I need to hand in my homework to cram school. Bye, you two!

Aoto: G'night, guys.

After saying their usual goodbyes, the three each go on their way.

???: ...

Behind them, a suspicious figure blending into the shadows flashes a smirk.

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 5: The Summer Days Continue - Episode 2

Five days later, Miku's phone—now broken—turns up in school. Because Miku didn't record the contact info of her friends anywhere else, her only means of contacting that dear friend is via letter—just like Aoto. Thinking on how long he's been waiting for a reply to his latest letter, a sense of unease begins to tug at him.

Miku: Siighh...

Aoto: Five days with no sign of your phone. Maybe it's not even in the area...

Kai: I just asked in the staff room. They haven't heard anything either.

Miku: Shucks... I guess I really did lose it somewhere...

Aoto, Miku, and Kai have each gone off on their own the past few days searching the entire school and neighborhood for the phone, but to no avail.

Arita: Tajiri.

Miku: Ah, yes! Mr. Arita?

Arita: A student on the Clean-Up Committee just left something in the lost and found. I thought you should take a look...

Mr. Arita takes out a plastic bag with a phone inside.

Miku: Th-that's it! My PHS phone! I'd recognize that strap anywhere!

Aoto: It's banged up pretty bad. I don't know if you can even repair that... Where was it found?

Arita: It was in the scrapyard next to the gym shed. The Clean-Up Committee were going about their business there when they spotted it.

Arita: It's a good thing I told the committee in advance to keep their eyes peeled for a missing phone.

Miku: Oh... Thank you very much.

Arita: Be careful from now on. Either don't bring it to school, or be mindful of where you keep it.

Miku: Understood!

Miku: Phew... I'm just glad it's back, even if it's not in the best shape...

Aoto: I don't know how you're going to use that though. It's practically split in half; the wires are cut too.

Miku: Sigh... Yeah. I should've written down everyone's contact info somewhere.

Kai: You mean you put all their contact info into the phone and nowhere else?

Miku: Mm-hm... I figured that was more convenient. But now I have nothing left.

Aoto: Wow... I'm sorry to hear that.

Miku: Oh no... This means I won't be able to contact her either. What now...

Kai: Haven't you three been friends since elementary school? Surely she's gotta be in an old directory or something.

Aoto: Nah. Her phone number changed after moving, so I only know her address.

Kai: Guess you'll have to take after Aoto and start writing letters, maybe...

Miku: I haven't written a letter in years...

Miku: Oh, that reminds me.

Miku: Aoto, what sort of stuff has she been saying lately?

Aoto: Huh? Oh, well, nothing special really.

Aoto: Plans for high school, yummy cheesecake at a local cafe, and so on...

Aoto: (I suppose I should keep what she said about visiting for the summer to myself, especially since I turned her down...)

Aoto: (Problem is, I also lied about Miku's family going away to visit relatives...)

Aoto: (And that lie's going to come out in the open once Miku sends a letter. This could get messy.)

Aoto: (I'd better clear things up with Miku first before the situation gets any worse.)

Miku: ...
Aoto!

Aoto: Huh? Oh, sorry. You were saying?

Miku: I haven't said a thing. I'm just wondering why you're spacing out all of a sudden.

Kai: Yeah, I noticed it too. Did something happen to that girl, by any chance?

Miku and Kai grow suspicious as Aoto falls silent.

He shakes his head in a panic, uttering the first thing that comes to mind.

Aoto: I was just wondering about her late response to my most recent letter.

Miku: "Late response"? A week hasn't passed since you sent your letter. You must really want to hear back from her.

Aoto: Yeah, I suppose...

Aoto: Then again, there was that time she didn't respond for two weeks. Guess I'll just have to be patient.

Kai: So long as you don't go thinking she hates you again just because she needs a little extra time to write a letter.

Aoto: Won't happen! Probably...

Kai: Have a little faith in yourself!

Having convinced them that nothing is wrong, Aoto breathes a sigh of relief.

Aoto: (I don't know why... Even though her response isn't particularly late...)

Aoto: (I get the feeling something bad's going to happen...)

A twinge of unease begins to spread in Aoto's heart.

Unsure why he feels that way, Aoto clutches his chest.

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 5: The Summer Days Continue - Episode 3

That girl's latest response reveals that she thinks Miku and Aoto are officially dating now. When Miku denies having told her anything of the sort, Aoto—suspecting it may be a scheme cooked up by Oribe and Fuwa—immediately pens a response to clear the misunderstanding.

Vern: ...

Aoto: I'm home, Vern. The days have been getting hotter lately. You hanging in there okay?

Vern: ...

Aoto: It's supposed to get even hotter than last year. I really ought to get you a new fan.

Aoto: I put down my belongings and speak to Vern—my usual routine upon arriving home.

Aoto: I plop down by my desk, full of books and letter drafts.

Aoto: On the very top is a sky-colored envelope.

Aoto: Ten days since I sent my letter... Is it just my imagination that something will go wrong?

Aoto: After that talk with Miku and Kai the other day, my heart has been stirring with anxiety.

Aoto: It's a mystery. There was nothing out of the ordinary about the last letter I sent either.

Aoto: I'm probably overthinking it. Setting that aside, I open the letter.

Cherished Letter: "Greetings,
The end of the rainy season brings us warm weather."

Cherished Letter: "I wasn't quite sure what to write about this time."

Cherished Letter: "Ever since we were little, I thought this might happen someday."

Cherished Letter: "But no matter how much I steeled my heart for the possibility, it still comes as a bit of a surprise."

Aoto: ...?
What's she talking about?

Aoto: Already, something seems amiss about this letter.

Aoto: The uneasiness I'd felt all along rears its head once more.

Aoto: Perhaps it wasn't my imagination after all.

Aoto: My mind goes blank as I read on.

Cherished Letter: "Even in kindergarten, you two were always together and got along so well."

Cherished Letter: "That's why I was relieved—even if a bit surprised—to hear that you and Miku are officially an item now."

Aoto: Huh?

Aoto: What's this about me and Miku being a couple?

Aoto: And it was Miku who told her that? This doesn't make any sense.

Aoto: The next few lines in the letter only serve to confuse me further.

Cherished Letter: "About summer vacation, if you already had those plans with Miku, you could've told me."

Cherished Letter: "Since apparently you got permission to go on a trip with just the two of you."

Cherished Letter: "When I told Miku you didn't mention anything about it, she figured you were just being bashful."

Cherished Letter: "She said you wanted to keep your relationship on the down low, but you panicked when I mentioned coming back for the summer."

Cherished Letter: "Everything about your last letter makes sense now."

Cherished Letter: "Oh, don't worry! I don't blame you for not telling me the truth."

Cherished Letter: "As childhood friends, I can understand why it may have been difficult for you to be open about the matter."

Cherished Letter: "Well, since you two are a thing now, it's probably not the best idea for me to keep writing you."

Cherished Letter: "But at the very least, I hope we can continue to be friends, Aoto."

Cherished Letter: "To keep things short, I'll end it here. Take care to stay cool in the summer.
With love,
your friend."

Aoto: A trip just for me and Miku? Where did she get all this!

Aoto: Inundated with what almost sounds like a complete fabrication, my mind turns into a blank slate.

Aoto: I know—I'll ask Miku. She'll make sense of everything.

Miku: ≪Hello. Tajiri speaking.≫

Aoto: Miku! What's this all about!

Miku: ≪Aoto? What's wrong? Tell me what happened.≫

Aoto: You're the one who told her all that stuff about us, aren't you!

Aoto: About us going steady and planning a trip for the summer!

Miku: ≪Wha... This is my first time hearing about any of this! Did she really say that?≫

Aoto: Yeah, she put it all in her letter! Why did you have to go and tell her that nonsense!

Miku: ≪Calm down, Aoto! Like I said! I have no idea what you're talking about!≫

Miku: ≪My phone was broken, and I don't know her phone number. I couldn't have contacted her even if I wanted to...≫

Aoto: That's right...

Aoto: Ruled by emotion only a moment ago, I suddenly feel a chill run down my spine.

Aoto: Something's not right. Even without the stuff about me and Miku dating, the letter still seems off.

Miku: ≪Aoto?≫

Aoto: Sorry, Miku. I think I've finally calmed down.

Aoto: Just to be sure, does none of this ring a bell at all?

Miku: ≪Nuh-uh, not in the least. I have no idea how this could've come about.≫

Aoto: Oh, give me a second. Something seemed strange about the letter.

Aoto: I put Miku on hold and get back to reading the letter.

Aoto: My mind was such a mess earlier that I didn't see it, but a few things stand out.

Aoto: I thought so.

Aoto: Miku. Did you know she had plans to come here for the summer?

Miku: ≪What? Really? She didn't say anything about that in her texts.≫

Aoto: Just as I figured.

Miku: ≪I'm just learning this now! You should've told me if you knew, Aoto!≫

Aoto: Sorry. I wanted to tell you, but then I sent her a letter practically telling her to stay away.

Miku: ≪Wha? Why would you do that...≫

Miku: ≪Wait... Don't tell me those two are involved?≫

Aoto: Unfortunately. And chances are they're the ones who took your phone.

Aoto: Miku didn't know about her coming over for summer vacation, because I didn't tell her.

Aoto: Yet that letter is written on the premise that Miku knew about it.

Aoto: And then there's the matter of her missing phone.

Aoto: Only Fuwa and Oribe, who stole the letter from me, could have known its contents.

Aoto: I don't have concrete proof that they stole your phone, but I can't think of anyone else who would pull something like this.

Miku: ≪Supposing those two are the perps, what would their motive be?≫

Aoto: A while back, I overheard them talking about using her to spite me.

Aoto: Of course, when Oribe told me to introduce her to him, I refused.

Miku: ≪I had no idea... That explains why you told her not to come for the summer.≫

Miku: ≪Okay, I get the gist of it now. First thing we have to do now is clear her misunderstanding about us.≫

Aoto: Yeah. I'd better write a letter ASAP.

Miku: ≪I'll write one too. She seems convinced that I'm the one who said all those things; besides, I still need to tell her about my broken phone.≫

Aoto: Got it. I'll tell you her address. Wait...

Aoto: Huh?

Aoto: I thought I'd memorized her address, having written it so many times.

Aoto: Oddly enough, I look at the sender's info on the back of the envelope, only for my vision to go cloudy.

Miku: ≪What's wrong? Is there something else I should know?≫

Aoto: Uh... No, that's not it.

Aoto: I rub my eyes and take another look at the envelope. There it is—the address is clearly written.

Aoto: What was that just now? Maybe some dust got into my eye.

Aoto: Still baffled by that strange sensation a moment ago, I read the address aloud to Miku.

Miku: ≪Got it, thanks. I'll see you at school next week.≫

Aoto: Time to get on that letter. The sooner we clear up the misunderstanding, the better.

Aoto: No matter how much I hurry, my letter will take a few days to reach her.

Aoto: Yet I can't help but want to clear the air right away.

Aoto: If only I knew her phone number, none of this would be happening.

Aoto: Ever since we started exchanging letters, I've been afraid of speaking to her directly. That's why I avoided asking for her phone number.

Aoto: Cursing the cowardice of my past self, I get to work on my letter.

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 5: The Summer Days Continue - Episode 4

Aoto confronts Oribe and Fuwa about them stealing Miku's phone and using it to spread lies. Because the two show no remorse, a fight quickly breaks out.

Aoto: There you are...

On Monday morning, Aoto goes up to Fuwa, who is reading a book at his seat in the back corner.

Aoto: I know you took Miku's phone and involved my friend in your bullcrap.

Fuwa: Well, that's one heck of a greeting.

Aoto: Don't think I don't know! I heard everything you said to Oribe—

???: Let me stop you right there, Aoto.

The enraged Aoto is cut off by a voice from behind.

Aoto: Oribe! Rgh!

Aoto finds himself restrained, unable to turn around.

Oribe: Talk about a bad attitude. Picking a fight so early in the morning?

Aoto: Speak for yourselves! You're the ones who took Miku's phone and told my friend all those lies!

Oribe: So you figured it all out, eh? It wasn't easy trying to be Miku in those texts, you know.

Oribe: Judging from your reaction, that ingenue must've completely fallen for it.

Aoto: Damn you! How could you stoop so low! As if stealing Miku's phone wasn't enough!

Oribe: You've only got yourself to blame. Consider it just deserts for going back on your word.

Oribe: You can't say I didn't warn you.

Oribe: I could have gone after her directly, but what would that really do to you? Not your body, not your pain.

Oribe: What a bore that'd be. So I decided to forgo the physical for the psychological as the best way to get to you.

Aoto: You spread those lies just for that?

Oribe: As far as I could tell, that girl really valued her friendship with you and Miku.

Oribe: She must be crying herself to sleep, thinking that you've left her out of the loop because you don't see her the same way.

Oribe: I was hoping this'd blow up into a sticky love triangle, tearing apart the relationship you guys have for good.

Oribe: Tch, didn't think it'd be resolved so fast. What a waste.

Aoto: So you're saying... you got them involved in your petty nonsense just for that?

Aoto: Screw you! Me and my friends aren't for you to toy around with!

Fuwa, who has been quietly observing the whole argument, breathes a deep sigh.

Fuwa: You reap what you sow, Aoto.

Aoto: Huh?

Fuwa: The deal was for you to follow Oribe's every word. You're the one who failed to keep your end of the bargain.

Fuwa: Yet here you are placing yourself on a pedestal and pinning all the blame on us.

Aoto: ...

Fuwa: You knew full well that Oribe wouldn't take it lightly if you broke your promise.

Fuwa: Yet you did so anyway; now you're facing the consequences of your own actions.

Aoto is rendered speechless.

As the calm before the storm.

Aoto: Oh, shove off!

Oribe: ...!

Aoto breaks free of Oribe's hold and launches a fist at Fuwa.

But before it connects, Aoto's body is knocked away from the side.

Aoto: Ngh!

Oribe: Ditching me already? I'm crushed, Aoto.

Oribe: If you want to go play with Faa, at least be polite and finish off your current partner first.

Aoto: Oribe! Rgh!

Oribe keeps his cool as the two trade blows.

The classroom erupts with the screams of other students as bedlam ensues.

Arita: What's going on in here!

Kai: Aoto, stop before things get any worse!

A number of teachers burst into the room to break up the fight.

Aoto: Let me go! I need to show these two that they've gone too far!

Kai: Cool it, Aoto!

Kai: Fighting it out here isn't gonna solve anything!

Aoto: But—

Kai tries to calm down Aoto, who is still trying to lunge at Oribe despite being held back.

Oribe lets out a bored sigh.

Oribe: Sigh... Every time we're about to get to the good part, this happens.

Arita: I've already given you multiple warnings, which I see have been unheeded.

Arita: Oribe, don't think you're getting off easy this time.

Arita: Fuwa, weren't you involved in bullying Kikuda before as well? I'm going to have to talk to you too.

Fuwa: Humph, what a farce. Nothing good ever comes from giving you too much leash.

Oribe: C'mon now, Faa. At least I had fun while it lasted.

Accustomed to being dragged away by teachers, the two engage in casual banter.

Aoto: Damn them both...

Aoto: (They're not bothered in the least. They seem more entertained than anything else...)

Aoto's consciousness grows hazy as the pain spreads throughout his body.

Kai: Aoto! You hear me, Aoto? Hang in there!

Kai's voice sounds so distant as Aoto passes out.

Back to top

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 6: The Summer Days Continue - Episode 1

Aoto, who is ordered to stay home for a week following the brawl with Oribe, learns from his dear friend's latest letter that she will be relocating to a remote island in Kyushu. When he realizes she will be departing from Tokyo on the last train that very night, he breaks into a sprint.

Vern: ...

Aoto: As a result of my brawl with Oribe, I'm to spend the next week at home reflecting on my actions while recovering from my injuries.

Aoto: Oribe has been suspended, while Fuwa has once again stopped coming to school altogether.

Aoto: But considering those two didn't come to school most days anyway, it hardly seems like much of a punishment.

Aoto: Sigh...

Aoto: I wonder if she's read the letter yet. Hope it's cleared up any misunderstanding.

Aoto: I haven't had the chance to ask Miku if she's sent a letter too... I feel restless just wondering about it.

Aoto: Making it absolutely clear that Miku and I aren't dating was the only thing on my mind, so I don't remember what exactly I wrote.

Aoto: I was in such a rush that I didn't even look it over before sending it off.

Aoto: I could find out right away if I just knew her phone number.

Aoto: Then again, I guess we wouldn't be communicating by letter if I did know her number...

Aoto: Which also brings up the question of whether I'd have the guts to speak to her directly over the phone.

Aoto: I'm not exactly feeling confident. I wouldn't be able to choose my words carefully like I can with a letter, and it'd be really obvious if I'm trying to hide anything.

Aoto: She might be easygoing, but she's also very receptive to how other people are feeling.

Vern: ...

Aoto: You think so too, huh, Vern? I guess I've always been a bit of a wallflower.

Aoto: I'm afraid to express my true feelings to her. There's this fear that we might fall apart again.

Aoto: That's why I tend to drag things on without getting to the root of the problem.

Vern: ...

Aoto: Miku's eyes would probably roll out of her head if she knew this was still eating me up.

Aoto: You see, Vern. I just care about that girl so much that I don't want to lose her again.

Aoto: You, Miku, Kai, and my aunt are all special to me too. But her? She's on another level.

Aoto: That's why I'm especially afraid of losing contact with her forever.

Vern: ...

Aoto: It's hard to warm up to people, but easy enough to hate them.

Aoto: No matter how much you like someone, there's no guarantee that they feel the same way about you.

Aoto: It's why I avoid conveying my feelings to those important to me.

Aoto: One wrong move can tear apart a relationship so easily.

Aoto: Even when there's no animosity, people can simply drift apart. Inertia only contributes to that.

Vern: ...

Aoto: But I think you've heard enough about this from me for today, Vern.

Aoto: Vern raises a single leg as if to tell me there's nothing to worry about, eliciting a chuckle from me.

Aoto: There I sit, unable to attend school and unable to contact her.

Aoto: Having nothing better to do, I close my eyes and anxiously wait for the time to pass.

Aoto: It's too hot...

Aoto: My body is fully recovered after three days of rest; boredom is beginning to set in.

Aoto: Noticing that I'm running out of letter paper, I slip out to buy some.

Aoto: Whoa! Guess my aunt hasn't been checking the mailbox. Now that's a lot of flyers...

Aoto: As I leaf through the bundles of paper, one envelope in particular stands out to me.

Aoto: Resembling a cutout of the sky, the envelope can only be from her.

Aoto: With the mail in hand, I rush back inside.

Cherished Letter: "Greetings,
Summer vacation is almost here."

Cherished Letter: "I read the letters from both you and Miku. What a situation this has become."

Cherished Letter: "Thinking back, the revelation was oh so sudden. And there were parts that seemed very unlike Miku."

Cherished Letter: "I'm sorry for jumping to conclusions in my earlier letter."

Aoto: Phew. Sounds like we're all on the same page now.

Aoto: Though I opened the letter with apprehension, I now heave a sigh of relief.

Aoto: All's well that ends well—at least that's what I tell myself until I read on.

Cherished Letter: "There's something I've been meaning to tell you but couldn't bring myself to do so until now."

Cherished Letter: "Due to circumstances with my father's company, we'll be moving to Kyushu."

Cherished Letter: "Specifically, an outlying island known as Oronoshima. It's such a remote place that there are only one or two ferries going to it per day."

Cherished Letter: "And that's why I was hoping to see you once in the summer before the move..."

Cherished Letter: "I figured we can meet up easily enough if we want to now, but that won't be the case going forward."

Cherished Letter: "It's sad to think I'm going to be farther apart from you. That's why when I heard you two had become a couple..."

Cherished Letter: "I was really happy for you. I was surprised too, of course, but more than that I was relieved."

Cherished Letter: "Even without me, you two would be happy."

Cherished Letter: "To me, that mattered more than anything else."

Cherished Letter: "I love both you and Miku very much. That's why I'll be happy as long as you two are."

Cherished Letter: "But since I'm going away... I was worried that you might forget about me."

Cherished Letter: "That would be... kind of sad."

Cherished Letter: "Sorry if this comes off as weird. I just wanted to get that off my chest, since this could be my last letter for a while."

Cherished Letter: "Our plans for moving got pushed up. We'll be leaving Tokyo on the last train of July 14th."

Cherished Letter: "Take care of yourself, Aoto. No matter how far away I am, you'll be in my thoughts."

Aoto: She's... moving to Kyushu? That changes everything...

Aoto: She probably wavered until the very last moment.

Aoto: "The move is inevitable, but maybe I can at least break the news in person," she must've thought...

Aoto: But then I pushed her away, and Oribe's fake texts walled us off.

Aoto: So she'd completely given up on seeing me and Miku.

Aoto: July 14th... Wait, that's today!

Aoto: Today's date, as indicated by the calendar, is the very date written on the letter.

Aoto: With the letter still in my hand, I fly out of the house as fast as my legs will take me.

Aoto: She might have given up, but I certainly haven't.

Aoto: I don't want us to drift apart again without even getting a chance to say goodbye.

Aoto: No, I'm not going to make that same mistake twice.

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 6: The Summer Days Continue - Episode 2

On his way to the train station, Aoto bumps into Miku and Kai. Miku immediately realizes where he's going and decides to join him on the trip to Tokyo, and Kai realizes Aoto forgot his wallet and lends him his own. Aoto and Miku resume the sprint and make it onto a train bound for Tokyo just before it sets off.

Aoto runs. And runs. And runs.

He knows, deep in his heart, that if he misses this chance to meet her before she leaves, the regret will stay with him the rest of his life.

Aoto: Gwah!

Kai: Ouch... That you, Aoto?

Aoto: Kai... Miku... Sorry, I'm in a rush.

Kai: Hold up! You're not yourself. What happened?

Not wanting to waste even a second answering, Aoto tries to brush off Kai's grip on him.

Just then, Miku quietly places herself in Aoto's path.

Miku: You're going to see her, aren't you?

Aoto: Huh? H-how did you know...

Miku: Thought so. The train station's this way, and you don't go this way for your shopping runs.

Miku: Come now, how long have I known you? It couldn't have been more obvious.

Aoto: You read me like an open book.

Aoto: You're right, and there's no time. That's why—

Miku: Is there any reason you have to go see her right this moment?

Aoto: Yeah...

Miku: Took you long enough.

As Miku whispers that under her breath, Kai rejoins the conversation with a sigh.

Kai: Great, but with no wallet, Aoto? Did you plan on running all the way to Tokyo?

Aoto: ...

Aoto: I forgot it...

Aoto: I guess I was just in such a rush...

Kai: Fair enough...

Kai: Look, I'll lend you my wallet and the money in it. Just be sure to pay me back later.

Aoto: Huh? But...

Kai: You said it yourself—you're in a rush. Once the whole thing's settled, let me know how it went down.

Miku: Aoto, I'm coming too.

Aoto: Wha? But why, Miku...

Miku: I want to see her just as much as you do. And you're nobody to tell me I can't.

Miku states her intention as a matter of fact.

The words carry such absolute confidence that Aoto agrees instinctively.

Kai: It's decided then. If you go now, you should be able to reach Tokyo before midnight.

Miku: Sounds about right. Let's go, Aoto!

Aoto: Yes ma'am...

Aoto: Kai! Thanks a ton! I'll pay you back soon as I can—promise!

Kai: Sure! Have a safe trip, guys!

Kai: Phew... Hope things pan out for them.

Kai: Go for broke, Aoto.

Aoto and Miku run. And run. And run.

Their hearts are beating so fast, they can feel the pounding in their kneecaps. From shortness of breath to side stitches to stiff legs—their entire bodies are screaming in pain.

Yet they continue running. Their desire to see her one last time keeps them going.

Oribe: Now that's the youthful energy I like to see. What do you think, Faa?

Fuwa: ...

As Aoto and Miku forge ahead, two figures watch from the distance.

What seems to be a group of thugs are lying at their feet.

Oribe: Sure didn't expect these guys to come back for something so petty as revenge after leaving town.

Oribe: Guess they couldn't get over the fact that some meddling kid led them on a wild goose chase then sicced the cops on them.

Fuwa: Don't know, don't care. Whatever the case, we take out the trash all the same.

Oribe: "As long as you promise to never come back to this town, I'm willing to let it slide."

Oribe: You showed them mercy, and they spat on it. Makes me sad just thinking about it.

Fuwa: Enough talk, Oribe. Deal with the rest of those eyesores already.

Oribe: My, my. You really make me put in the work, Faa.

With an exaggerated shrug of his shoulders, Oribe's eyes meet Aoto's when he stops at the traffic light.

Even from far away, it's evident that Aoto is feeling alarmed. Oribe lightly waves hello, then turns away.

Miku: What's wrong, Aoto? Wait, isn't that Oribe and Fuwa?

Aoto: Never mind them. Let's go, Miku.

Miku: Right!

Train Announcer: The train on Track 3 will be departing shortly. Please stand clear of the closing doors.

Aoto: ...!

Miku: Almost there!

Leaping over multiple steps at a time, the two race up the stairs.

And then...

Aoto: Ah...

Aoto & Miku: We made it...

Having nearly missed the train by a hair's breadth...

The two slowly collapse onto the floor by the door as they catch their breath.

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 6: The Summer Days Continue - Episode 3

Encouraged by Miku, Aoto gathers his thoughts on what to tell their dear friend when they finally meet. Hours later, they find her getting ready to board the shinkansen at Tokyo Station. When they call out her name—Lyria—a bright light engulfs the two.

Aoto: Miku and I take corner seats in the sparsely populated train, watching the scenery in the window pass by us.

Aoto: The outlines of mountains in the distance and the rustic countryside stretching from the foot of those mountains.

Aoto: The same view persists for some time, making it seem like the train is running in circles.

Miku: So this is what it feels like to "travel."

Aoto: Miku, seated beside me, comments on the scenery. I lean into her words.

Miku: We've been on longish train rides for kendo club events, but it's not really the same thing. And never to a place like Tokyo.

Aoto: Same here.

Aoto: Our conversation comes to a pause.

Aoto: The rhythmic rocking of the train is the only thing to fill the silence for some time.

Aoto: Hey, Miku?

Miku: Yeah?

Aoto: Why did you decide to come along?

Miku: About that... I sent her a letter too, but it's better to clear things up in person.

Miku: You can convey the facts via a letter easily enough, but you have to be there in the flesh to really get your feelings across.

Aoto: Well said...

Miku: Isn't that why you're going too, Aoto? To clear the air over a candid chat?

Aoto: I'm not too sure myself...

Aoto: But I definitely want to talk to her before she moves away again.

Aoto: I might've made it all the way to this train, but I haven't really thought things through yet.

Aoto: Like what I should say when I do see her, or what we would do together. It's all a mess in my head.

Conductor: ≪Someone has stepped onto the train tracks, so we've had to make an emergency stop. Please be patient while we conduct a safety check.≫

Aoto: The train comes to a halt as if in response to my racing heart.

Aoto: The safety check is taking longer than expected. I find myself growing anxious.

Aoto: What if I end up missing her by a split second just because the train stopped for so long?

Miku: It'll be okay. I'm confident we'll make it on time.

Aoto: Is it that obvious what's going through my head?

Miku: Only because I feel the exact same way.

Miku: I've decided to see her tonight, so I have to stay confident that it's going to happen.

Miku: And, Aoto. I don't think you need to worry so much.

Miku: I know she matters a great deal to you.

Miku: That's why you've been walking on eggshells, right? Fear of losing her.

Aoto: Wow, you see right through me, Miku.

Miku: Well, sure. I've already been there, done that, unlike a certain someone. Call it the wisdom of experience.

Miku: And while I'm at it, you should know that I cherish her just as much as you do.

Miku: She's a very special friend, unlike you, Kai, or anyone else. There's no one else like her in the world for me.

Miku: That's why I want to look into her eyes as I explain this whole mess, to make sure we're still on good terms.

Miku: After all, emotions don't come across all that well on paper.

Miku: So anyway, I think if you just talk to her from the heart, face-to-face, you'll be fine.

Miku: Which is exactly why we're going through all this trouble to see her. Sound about right, Aoto?

Aoto: Spot-on.

Aoto: Not that I've sorted out what exactly it is I want to tell her yet. One thing's for sure though...

Aoto: I'm done making excuses. Now that I've come this far, I'm going to make things work.

Aoto: I need to consider what is it I want to tell her and speak from the heart.

Aoto: I won't let us drift apart without a word like last time.

Aoto: No turning back now, Aoto. You can do this.

Aoto: A repeat of our separation is the last thing I want. I'm here to make sure that doesn't happen.

Conductor: ≪Sorry to keep everyone waiting. The safety check is now complete, and we will resume operation shortly.≫

Aoto: It's finally moving.

Miku: Thank goodness, that was a while...

Miku: I was thinking maybe you can use the rest of the train ride to organize your thoughts. It'll be a bit before we arrive in Tokyo.

Aoto: Yeah, I'll do that.

Aoto: Swaying about as the train gets moving again, I reflect on the many thoughts racing through my head.

Aoto: As Miku noted, clearing up the misunderstanding about us two dating is definitely on the agenda.

Aoto: To go with that, I'll want to explain how things got that way in the first place. No more obscuring the facts; she deserves to know the truth.

Aoto: Most importantly, I have to apologize for going off on her that day.

Aoto: We've already made up over the incident via letter, but I want to apologize properly in person.

Aoto: Oh, there's so much more...

Aoto: As the reality of speaking to her a few hours from now starts to sink in, all these thoughts I'd kept repressed come flooding in.

Aoto: It turns out there's so much I want to tell her that a single day isn't nearly enough.

Aoto: (The sooner we get there, the better...)

Aoto: The rustic scenery outside the window remains largely the same. Rather, it feels like we're getting farther from civilization as more mountains pop into view.

Aoto: The sun that was so high in the sky earlier is beginning to set, giving the windows the hue of dusk.

Aoto: (I want to see her, to talk to her so bad. No matter how short it might be...)

Aoto: How many minutes or hours has it been since I set foot in the train?

Aoto: Daylight is fading away, but it doesn't feel like I've gotten any closer to her.

Aoto: How much longer must I be rocked left and right in this metal box before I can see her?

Miku: Long way away, huh...

Aoto: Yeah...

Miku: Didn't think Tokyo would be this far.

Aoto: I recall my classmates remarking that Tokyo is closer than one might think, that it might as well be the next town over.

Aoto: To me and Miku though, it feels like we're going far, far away, as if to a different country.

Aoto: Tonight, she'll be setting off for a land considerably farther away from us.

Aoto: Meeting up will become that much harder, and letters will take that much longer to arrive.

Aoto: The very thought of it is so bleak and depressing.

Aoto: The train continues to sway for hours before we reach Tokyo Station.

Aoto: It was packed with huge crowds, the likes of which I had never seen before.

Aoto: A shinkansen bound for Hakata... Yeah, this should be the place.

Miku: I've never seen so many people in one place. I just hope she hasn't gotten on the train yet...

Aoto: While we finally stumble upon the platform she'll be departing from, it seems an impossible task to find a single individual among these huge throngs of people.

Aoto: Still, Miku and I split up in our search for her.

Aoto: We were in elementary school the last time we met. It's been years since then, so she's no doubt grown somewhat.

Aoto: While we haven't seen what she looks like now...

Aoto: We trust our memories will serve us well enough to recognize her.

Aoto: I think of her white dress fluttering in the wind on a hot summer day as she smiles our way.

Miku: ...!

Miku: Aoto! Over there!

Aoto: Startled by her sudden shout, I turn around.

Aoto: Miku is pointing to a girl in a school uniform that stands out from the crowds.

Miku: Wait—

Aoto: Wait for us—

Aoto: That's when I noticed.

Miku: Wha...

Aoto: What was her name again?

Aoto: I'd written her all those letters. I thought of her all the time. Yet I suddenly have trouble recalling her name.

Miku: How is this happening! Surely we've mentioned her name all the time!

Aoto: No clue... Either way, we have to get to her!

Aoto: She's about to board the shinkansen.

Aoto: Though still dazed, I realize I can't let this chance go and force my legs into action.

Aoto: Ten meters. Five meters.

Aoto: Just as she's within reach, we call out to her.

Miku: Wait!

Aoto: Don't go!

Aoto & Miku: Lyria!

That Girl: ...!

Aoto: The moment she turns around, a radiant light shines forth from the shinkansen door.

Aoto: Memories come flooding into me. Her long, fluttering hair. Her milky white dress resembling that of the clouds.

Aoto: Cerulean skies as far as the eye can see.

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 6: The Summer Days Continue - Episode 4

Aoto and Miku find themselves in a stark white space filled with books. Visions of the stories contained within those books flood their minds—(Captain) realizes these are records of the captain's adventures with Lyria. For some reason, she seems concerned that they will have to say goodbye to each other in the near future, but (Captain) promises her that they will always be together.

Miku: Huh... Where are we?

Aoto and Miku open their eyes to find themselves in a stark white space with no ceiling or floor.

Miku: Um... Aoto, where the heck are we? I'm pretty sure this is not Tokyo Station anymore!

Aoto: Calm down, Miku.

Aoto: I'm not sure either, but...

Aoto: Something about this feels very nostalgic, like I should know it all...

Miku: Wh-what the...

Aoto: This is... a book?

Miku: What's written here... "Act 1: Girl in Blue"... The Port Breeze Archipelago?

Aoto: Never heard of it. Is that some kind of novel?

A closer look reveals that each of the books floating around them is engraved with a title.

Aoto: What is all this... A series of novels, perhaps?

A curious Aoto reaches out to one of the books, opening up its thick cover.

Miku leans over from the side and, upon seeing the words spelled out on the first page, gasps.

"Zinkenstill, the Hermit Island."

Miku: Zinkenstill?

Aoto: Where have I heard that before...

An intense wave of deja vu washes over the two as they read on.

The story begins with the protagonist's encounter with a mysterious girl.

She has beautiful long, blue hair. Her name is—

Aoto & Miku: Lyria.

A surge of light surrounds the two as Aoto flips through the pages.

Events being played in fast-forward race through their minds.

Aoto: Oh... Yeah, that's right.

Miku: It's all coming back... No, actually, I've never forgotten.

Aoto: These are memories of our adventures.

Miku: These are memories of our travels.

Gran is the Main Character

A world of floating islands. I'm standing on one of them.

(Captain): A story of the skies where we reach for the stars.

Djeeta is the Main Character

A world of floating islands. I'm standing on one of them.

(Captain): A story of the skies where we reach for the stars.

Her figure comes into view once more as the intense light gradually fades.

Lyria: We've made so many wonderful memories together. It's great looking back at them, isn't it?

Lyria takes one of the floating books into her hands and gently flips through its pages.

Lyria: I wonder how long it's been since we first met.

Lyria: Every day with you has been a new experience—ranging from fun to happy to sad to trying.

Lyria: We've been through so much, and I cherish every one of our memories together.

Lyria: Though I can't help but wonder sometimes.

Lyria: How might things have turned out if I hadn't met you that day?

Lyria: Look at the things we've seen, the people we've met, the memories we created, the experiences we had...

Lyria: What's going to happen next year? It sets my heart dancing just to imagine all the places we'll go, all the things that we'll see.

Lyria: Though of course, it wasn't all sunshine and rainbows. We've had plenty of doom and gloom as well.

Lyria: Every encounter comes with a goodbye. And we've had to fight for our lives more times than I can count.

Lyria: But every time we overcome one of those hurdles, I find myself elated that we get to continue traveling together.

Lyria: Of course, I try not to take our current situation for granted either.

Lyria: It's because of so many coincidences and miracles, the help of countless people...

Lyria: And especially the strength and bravery you instilled me with...

Lyria: That I'm able to be here right now.

Lyria closes her book and turns to look at (Captain).

(Captain)'s breath catches at the sight her expression, now bittersweet and tinged with ache.

Lyria: There's no telling if things will be able to continue as they have up until now.

Lyria: Greater battles on a scale we can't even begin to imagine may lie ahead.

Lyria: We might even get caught up in something that'll force us to be apart from each other.

Lyria: If... And this is a big "if"...

Lyria: If something like that should happen and I can't be by your side anymore...

Lyria: I'd still like you to continue this journey.

Lyria: Even without me, you'll still have so many people to meet, memories to create, and experiences to have...

Lyria: As much as I'd like to continue traveling with you for a long time to come, I thought I'd just put that out there.

Lyria: Though know that if this should ever come to pass, I'm never going to give up trying to get back to you. That's a promise.

Lyria: Although there's no telling what the future has in store for us...

Lyria: If worst comes to worst, I hope you'll remember what I just said.

That's one future I know won't happen.

Choose: That's one future I know won't happen.

Lyria: ...

There is something transient about Lyria's figure as she falls silent, only a fleeting smile remaining on her lips.

Gran is the Main Character

(Captain) reaches out to Lyria, but the captain's hands pass right through her fingertips, causing her outline to slightly flicker.

Because we'll always be together.

Djeeta is the Main Character

(Captain) reaches out to Lyria, but the captain's hands pass right through her fingertips, causing her outline to slightly flicker.

Because we'll always be together.

Choose: Because we'll always be together.
Choose: Because we'll always be together.

Lyria: Okay. That's a promise, (Captain).

With those words, Lyria's form is suddenly engulfed by a great light.

Lyria!

Choose: Lyria!

She dissipates all too quickly for anything to be done, and (Captain)'s world tumbles into empty whiteness.

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Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Ending - Episode 1

(Captain) awakens in the captain's quarters on the Grandcypher, having collapsed from heatstroke earlier. The dream (Captain) had was likely born of an inherent fear of losing Lyria. Lyria and Vyrn wish to have double the fun with (Captain) in the following years to make up for this year.

Voices can be heard from afar.

???: ...kay?
...hear me?

???: Wake... already, (Captain)!

The voices slowly grow more audible, as if guiding the captain to consciousness.

Vyrn: (Captain)! You're finally awake!

Lyria: You wouldn't respond no matter how many times we called out... Do you feel ill? Are you in pain anywhere?

Where am I?

Choose: Where am I?

Vyrn: Seriously, (Captain)? You don't remember?

Vyrn: You passed out from heatstroke in the middle of an assignment!

Lyria: It was especially hot today, and I guess you didn't get to drink much water before heading out...

Vyrn: Sorry, I should've made ya drink some water even if you didn't want any...

Lyria: Please don't blame Vyrn! I'm at fault too for not noticing you might not be feeling too well...

Thanks to their explanations, (Captain) is starting to remember the events of the day.

Indeed, they were swamped with so many requests since this morning that there was hardly any time to stop even for a drink of water.

Recalling the worried expressions the two wore before the captain passed out, (Captain) feels a stab of guilt.

Sorry for making you worry.

Choose: Sorry for making you worry.

Lyria: Oh, no, no! I just hope you'll tell us as soon as you're not feeling well next time.

Vyrn: Yeah, what she said! You know how sometimes you get so busy that you even skip meals? Well, try to prioritize keeping yourself fed and hydrated from now on!

Hoping to allay their fears, the captain nods with a lopsided smile.

Vyrn: You know, you were groanin' plenty while asleep earlier. You must've had a really bad nightmare.

(Captain) thinks back to the dream from earlier.

While the details are obscured in a haze, the feeling of loneliness couldn't have been more real.

What exactly was that dream?

The more (Captain) tries to dig at the details, the fuzzier they get. Before long, even the outlines of the dream become impossible to grasp at.

What becomes apparent instead is an indescribable anxiety buried within.

A part of (Captain) has always worried about what would happen if Lyria were suddenly gone someday.

That dream may have been a manifestation of the captain's deepest fears.

Lyria: (Captain)? Are you still feeling unwell?

Vyrn: You fell headfirst after all... Maybe we should have the doctor take another look at you.

Pulled away from the dark train of thought, (Captain) reassures them that everything is okay.

I had a strange dream.

Choose: I had a strange dream.

Lyria: So the dream got very lonely at the end, and that's why you were groaning in your sleep?

Vyrn: Weird for ya to have such a dream.

Vyrn: I bet it's because Auguste is closed off this year!

Vyrn: We usually get so excited about spending the summer in Auguste.

Vyrn: But I guess that being a no-go this year really got to you, huh? I kinda get it.

Vyrn: Things just aren't the same without our summer getaway in Auguste.

Lyria: Yeah... I know that feeling too!

Lyria: We end up getting entangled in something big each year, which is part of what makes it such a great and memorable experience.

Lyria, being in firm agreement with Vyrn, claps her hands as an idea strikes her.

Lyria: I know! We'll just have to have twice as much fun next year to make up for this year!

Lyria: Two summers' worth of excitement in a single year! It's going to be amazing!

Vyrn: You can say that again! Auguste being closed off is lame, but luckily it's not a regular thing.

Vyrn: So whaddya say to taking a longer vacation next year, (Captain)?

Vyrn: That'll help us fit in everything we need for double the thrills! Sound good to you?

With a hearty grin, (Captain) gives the two a big thumbs-up.

Lyria: Hooray! I can't wait for next summer!

Vyrn: Same! No clue what it's gonna be like, but I can already tell I'm gonna love it!

Lyria: Lots of yummy food, a swim on the beach...

Vyrn: Can't forget the fireworks either! And also...

Sharing in their infectious joy, (Captain) looks to the blue skies outside the window.

Not just next year, but the year after that and beyond.

Determined to forge many wonderful new memories with Lyria, Vyrn, and everyone else in the crew...

(Captain) has high hopes for the future, eager to embark on the adventures ahead.

The End

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Characters

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend/Story

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Opening

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 1: How Are You? - Episode 1

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 1: How Are You? - Episode 2

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 1: How Are You? - Episode 3

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 1: How Are You? - Episode 4

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 2: We've Entered the Rainy Season - Episode 1

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 2: We've Entered the Rainy Season - Episode 2

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 2: We've Entered the Rainy Season - Episode 3

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 2: We've Entered the Rainy Season - Episode 4

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 3: It Makes You Miss Clear, Blue Skies - Episode 1

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 3: It Makes You Miss Clear, Blue Skies - Episode 2

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 3: It Makes You Miss Clear, Blue Skies - Episode 3

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 3: It Makes You Miss Clear, Blue Skies - Episode 4

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 4: I Hope You're Feeling Well - Episode 1

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 4: I Hope You're Feeling Well - Episode 2

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 4: I Hope You're Feeling Well - Episode 3

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 4: I Hope You're Feeling Well - Episode 4

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 5: The Summer Days Continue - Episode 1

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 5: The Summer Days Continue - Episode 2

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 5: The Summer Days Continue - Episode 3

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 5: The Summer Days Continue - Episode 4

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 6: The Summer Days Continue - Episode 1

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 6: The Summer Days Continue - Episode 2

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 6: The Summer Days Continue - Episode 3

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Chapter 6: The Summer Days Continue - Episode 4

Sincerely, Your Dearest Friend - Ending - Episode 1

Characters

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