Prologue
An envelope lay on top of the table. A black, unwrinkled envelope on which there were words scribbled in white. Addressed to loved ones. Those who are treasured. They are carried by uncoloured, little wings, like tiny birds. Flies that can only live their lives for one day. When they touch the ground, their tender mechanism perishes. When warmth embraces them, they crumble to ashes.
They travelled from far away, above green land and blue oceans, underneath grey skies like today's. They shall not screech, for they came in mournfulness and move themselves in silence. They fly through Tomoeda, along the buildings in a nearby city which offers opportunities, choices and paths. It's where a couple tries to fight the aggressive wind and rain. It's the most restless January within living memory.
"Sakura!"
"Yes!"
There is also restlessness in his voice. The young man pushes a metal key into the lock and the front door slams open. The stairs to the rooms shudder. The girl runs, somewhat scared, into their home where after he closes the door with all his might. They put their trunks leaning to the wall and plump down on the couch. Then nothing.
The answering machine's LED flickers. The windows shake in their frames. There is an envelope on the table. It's black like a night's clear sky. Small, wondering hands pick her up. The envelope's skin scorches: the ashes whirl down to the carpet. A letter folds open.
Shock. Grief.
Recorded messages serve as a confirmation. The names of their owners flash on the display. Daidouji Residence, Kinomoto Residence, Terada Residence and many more. Tears roll over the loving young lady's cheeks, the one who always cares about others. Her face hides into the woollen sweater covering the chest of the man with messy, chocolate brown hair, who had wrapped his strong arms around her. He stays silent, staring over her shoulder to the elegantly written black framed letter that fell to the floor.
Kaho Mizuki
