"If only Ai were still alive..." Aqua's heartbreaking "What-If" scenario in Oshi No Ko leaves fans devastated: "Seeing her 'alive' is just too painful."

Imagine how much happiness they could have shared if Ai Hoshino (voiced by Rie Takahashi) were still alive today... In Episode 20 of the anime Oshi No Ko, the "Ai Survived" what-if scenario envisioned by her son, Aqua (voiced by Takeo Otsuka), continues to be a total tear-jerker no matter how many times you watch it.

Having lost his mother Ai right before his eyes as a child, Aqua carries a deep, permanent scar on his heart. In this episode, Aqua—performing in a stage play—decides to channel his own traumatic past to deliver a truly raw, gut-wrenching performance. During the scene, Aqua reflects: "I've had this convenient dream so many times. Praying for some kind of 'plot armor' miracle, like in a story. If only I could have saved Ai back then..." as he visualizes the horrific moment Ai was stabbed by a stalker.

In this vision, unlike the cruel reality, Ai survives. Seeing her standing there, the young Aqua collapses into her arms, sobbing uncontrollably. The imaginary Ai, full of her signature energy, holds him gently and says, "What’s wrong, Aqua? Being a little clingy today, aren't you?" followed by, "I'm not gonna die from something like this!"