Episode 3: Roots Extend, Anxiety and Determination

Yuto suddenly stopped in front of his desk. On the wet paper towel lining the transparent dish, the glowing seed had clearly changed since yesterday.

From the bottom of the seed, a single, fine white root—was extending straight down.

"...It really grew a root."

Along with the surprise, a gentle warmth filled his chest. It felt almost as if a newborn, tiny life was whispering, "I'm right here."

But Yuto caught his breath slightly.

"Roots... break really easily, don't they? If I handle it roughly, I might hurt it."

Roots are so crucial that they appear even before the sprouts do, and they are incredibly delicate—that fact pressed heavily upon Yuto's heart.

"How am I supposed to grow it...?"

Even when searching online, no answers came up for a glowing seed. If it were an ordinary plant, information would be found instantly, but this was anything but "ordinary."

"Trying to figure this out alone... is a little scary."

As if to ease Yuto's hesitation, the seed returned another soft glow. That gentleness, ironically, made him feel the weight of his responsibility even more.

Right then, a nostalgic memory flashed through Yuto's mind. The exhibition greenhouses, paths lined with flower beds, a small pond, and flowers swaying with each passing season—it was the landscape of that botanical garden he had visited as a child.

"If I go there... they might know something about this seed."

Yuto gave a small nod, making up his mind.

"...Alright, let's go."

Yet the moment he went to lift it, the root wobbled, and Yuto hurriedly stopped his hands.

"It's too dangerous like this... how am I going to carry it...?"

After thinking for a moment, Yuto moistened a fresh paper towel and wrapped the seed softly. He did it ever so gently and carefully, making sure the root wouldn't shift.

He placed it gently into a small container to keep it from drying out and lightly closed the lid.

"I'll take you there tomorrow. Let's have them take a proper look at you, together."

One last time, the seed flashed its light with a sudden, reassured pop.

Preparations were complete. Next up, finally—to that botanical garden.