2

"Early this morning, M.O.S., a pioneer in quantum technology, announced that a large-scale explosion had occurred at one of its research facilities. Fortunately, there were no injuries, and since the facility was located on M.O.S.’s private property, the damage was limited to a single research building. The cause of the accident is currently under investigation, and further details will be disclosed once determined."

The television news program delivered the report in an indifferent tone. The anchor’s calm voice blended seamlessly into the sterile atmosphere of the hospital room.

"I wonder what kind of research they were doing..."

Kazu, having just finished his breakfast in bed, muttered to himself.

"You’re only ten years old, right, Kazu? And yet, you watch the news first thing in the morning? That’s impressive."

Yumiko, sitting on the opposite bed, spoke to him while eating her prescribed soft food. Her gentle voice made Kazu smile slightly as he nodded in silence.

Almost as if she had been waiting for the right moment, Rin, the caretaker of the room, walked in.

"Yumiko, stop chatting and make sure to finish your meal. You’ll be heading to the nap station in thirty minutes."

She called out while efficiently preparing to clear away the trays.

"Yes, yes," Yumiko replied with a slightly embarrassed smile, then slowly resumed eating with her spoon.

"Another accident, huh? This company had something happen just last month too, didn’t they? Maybe they’re making something dangerous."

Rin glanced at Kazu, who was still looking at the television, adding a hint of humor to her words.

"Could that really be the case...?"

Kazu’s expression was puzzled, as if to say, How would I know?

"Well, it’s got nothing to do with us anyway."

Rin shrugged with a lighthearted laugh.

"Yeah..."

Kazu responded absentmindedly.

"Alright then, Kazu, you’re scheduled to go to Nap Station No. 3 at 11:30. Today’s task is a ‘Report on Fun Dreams’."

Rin checked her notepad as she spoke casually.

"Understood," Kazu answered briefly.

"I’ll come to get you when it’s time, so be ready by then."

Leaving those words behind, Rin hurriedly exited the room.

Kazu turned off the television and shifted his gaze to the book on the desk.

—The Dreamer’s Guide—

He picked it up and began flipping through the pages.

Outside, the heavy rain continued to pound against the window.