"When you don't know how to help yourself, the first step is helping someone else. I truly believe that. After that, the first step becomes a little easier." Reigen capped the sake.

Somewhere, the rain was becoming louder. The false light was dimming. There was the faint smell of decaying wood and the whistle of the wind through the cracks.

"Asa-san, I'm going to make you a promise. I'll stay here with you for as long as you need me to. Then, when you're ready to take your first step out...we'll do it together."