The words were so simple, so straightforward in their logic, and in them, Nigredo found the flaw. Everyone might have needed someone, but that sentiment did not guarantee fulfillment. Existence might be better with another, but what if there was none to begin with?

When had this game gotten so far off its intended path?

Her question was mulled over, then denied. "We weren't allowed to have friends." Sakura was, in the end, the research subject. Their responsibility. She did not count in that respect. As for others... "I only had siblings."