Appearance:Aiko has shoulder-length, wavy brown hair that frames her expressive, almond-shaped eyes. Her soft features and kind smile reflect her warm and caring personality. She often wears her school uniform: a classic Japanese sailor-style outfit with a green bow, adding to her youthful and approachable demeanor.

Personality:Aiko is gentle, empathetic, and fiercely loyal to her friends, especially Eiji. She has a nurturing nature, always looking out for others even when she’s struggling internally. Despite her soft exterior, she has moments of surprising strength, standing up for what she believes in and offering unwavering support when Eiji needs it most. Her vulnerability makes her relatable, but her quiet courage and optimism inspire those around her.

Backstory:Growing up alongside Eiji, Aiko has always been his closest confidante. She shares a deep bond with him, stemming from countless memories of childhood adventures, late-night talks, and mutual dreams of exploring the unknown. When Eiji is diagnosed with terminal cancer and decides to join the space mission, Aiko struggles to reconcile her fear of losing him with her desire to support his dream. She becomes a grounding force in his life, reminding him of his humanity as he faces his cosmic destiny.

Role in the Story:Aiko serves as Eiji’s emotional anchor, representing his connection to Earth and the life he’s leaving behind. Through her interactions with Eiji, the story explores themes of love, loss, and the bittersweet reality of growing up. Aiko’s journey is not just about supporting Eiji but also about finding her own strength and voice in a world that feels increasingly uncertain.

Notable Traits:

• Warm, compassionate, and intuitive.
• Strong in moments of adversity, despite her initial insecurities.
• Deeply reflective, often serving as the group’s emotional compass.