Kaito is the story’s protagonist. Kaiken is Kaito’s twin brother, and Go is their father. This part takes place when the brothers are 12 years old. (The brothers are 21 in the story proper.)

Kaiken, who had been practicing various ballet moves to pass the time, walked over and slapped a firm hand on Kaito’s shoulder. “Then Kaito can come to the tryout. See what it’s like to be me in person.”

‘It’s not like I don’t ever want to,’ Kaito thought bitterly.

Go’s frown deepened. “I don’t want Kaito to go. This matter is between Kaiken and Coach Kurote alone.”

“Why not?” Kaiken shot back. “It’s not like Kaito’ll be participating or anything. I don’t see the problem.”

Kaito flinched. His brother’s words stung harder than any punch the elder twin landed on him. Father, Kaito expected nothing less out of him, but his own brother? Kaito shook his head. Kaiken was right and once again, Kaito’s destiny was to sit quietly in the shadows. Kaito bowed his head, only to snap out of his reverie when Kaiken’s grip tightened. Not threatening, but firm. Reassuring.

Like how Kaiken used to do.

‘Kaiken, what are you…? Even after you…? I don’t get you. I don’t get you at all.’

But then something about Kaiken’s grip made Kaito do a double take. Like a ripple effect that slowly escalated from just a small push, Kaito felt a quiver—subtle, but gradually increasing in intensity.