explaining anything. It was even possible that she would later see how it shed light on Kousaka’s actions and behavior, and in time understand. However, he had already let that chance slip by. It’s all over now, Kousaka thought deeply. Izumi won’t forgive me for hurting Sanagi both physically and emotionally. After showering and returning to the living room, Kousaka came to a stop. He was too distraught to notice earlier, but there were a few bloodstains on the floor. They must have dripped off the wound on Sanagi’s face. He squatted down and looked closely. Since he considered other people a symbol of impurity, blood was a very detestable thing. Normally, he would have wiped it up without a second thought. However, for some reason, he felt as if these bloodstains should be left there. It wasn’t quite as “punishment.” He didn’t quite understand it himself, but maybe the more appropriate term would be “commemoration,” he thought. He sat in his chair, staring endlessly at the stains. Then he thought, I shouldn’t be doing this; I’ll think about something more fun. …Yes, like SilentNight, for instance. That worm has already scattered to all corners of the mobile network. Whatever happens to me now, likely no one will be able to stop the force of SilentNight. Even if Izumi goes running to a security