Nagae Estate – Training Room
July 4, 2021 – Sunday – 4:30 P.M.
Third Person POV
After their session at CiRCLE wrapped up, Riku and the girls he'd handpicked returned to their separate routines. The practice itself had gone smoothly—quicker than expected, even. Maya had adapted at a remarkable pace, absorbing beats and transitions simply by listening to Rei, Kaoru, and Rinko perform once. They'd managed to piece together a decent group rhythm by the end, but Riku knew it was only the beginning. Growth required solitude as much as teamwork, so before dismissing them, he gave each girl a small task: practice your part, refine your role, and do it at your own pace.
When he and Rinko arrived back at the Nagae Estate later that afternoon, they were greeted by Kuroka—just back from Myouren Temple—and Meiling, who stood at the gate beside Kyoya. The sight drew a puzzled glance from Riku.
"Why's she here?" he asked, folding his arms.
Kyoya's tone was calm but firm. "It's time to begin your Divine Dividing training. Meiling will serve as your sparring partner. I've already arranged your schedule."
Riku nodded without protest. The responsibility had been looming for days now, and it was time to face it. Without another word, he hurried off to the changing room, while Rinko, curious, turned to Kyoya.
"Is it alright if I watch?"
He gave a small smile. "Of course. Just don't get too close."
Moments later, the four of them gathered in the training hall. The air was heavy with static anticipation—Riku and Meiling standing across from each other at the center, while Kuroka and Rinko observed from the side.
As soon as the signal was given, the floor quaked with motion. Lightning cracked through the air as Riku's aura flared, meeting the burning red of Meiling's qi. Every impact of fist and foot sent shockwaves rippling through the chamber, forcing Kuroka to raise a shimmering barrier just to keep the spectators safe.
Riku, clad in a tight black shirt and dark blue shorts, darted forward first—his kick slicing through the air with blinding speed. Meiling ducked just in time, the wind from the strike whipping her hair. She countered instantly, elbowing toward his ribs, but Riku pivoted, forearm intercepting the blow.
Their movements blurred. Meiling spun low, sweeping at his legs, and he stumbled back a step—but used the momentum to flip into a springing recovery, landing light on his feet.
For a fleeting second, they met each other's eyes. No words. Just focus.
Then they clashed again.
Meiling advanced with a flurry of strikes—each faster than the last. Riku blocked the first two but caught the third hard on his shoulder, the shock biting through muscle. He retaliated with a spinning backfist that grazed her cheek. Blood welled at the corner of her lip, but she only smiled through it, lowering back into stance.
He came at her again—jab, hook, knee. Meiling flowed around each hit, parrying with perfect rhythm. Then, catching the faintest hitch in his stance, she feinted right and drove her palm into his sternum. The hit forced him back, breath knocked from his lungs, but he dug in and steadied himself.
Riku exhaled, lips quirking faintly. "Not bad."
Meiling's grin matched his. "You're not bad either, Riku-sama. I can see how much you've grown." Her eyes glinted. "How about we take it up a notch?"
He smirked. "Let's."
In the next heartbeat, they vanished from sight—reappearing mid-collision, blows landing faster than the human eye could follow. Flesh met flesh with a thunderous rhythm, each hit carrying intent and control. Neither yielded.
On the sidelines, Rinko's hands were clasped tight against her chest. She winced every time Riku took a hit.
Kuroka noticed and chuckled softly, tail swishing. "Don't worry, I'll patch them up if they go overboard, nya~."
Rinko tried to smile, but her voice trembled. "I know you can heal them... but it's still hard to watch him getting hurt."
Kuroka's gaze softened, her tone gentler. "That's his duty, nya. The best thing you can do—just be there. Let him see you believe in him."
Rinko fell quiet, eyes fixed on the fight. Her worry didn't fade, but her resolve steadied.
Meanwhile, Riku and Meiling pushed their limits. Their speed rose beyond normal human bounds—lightning against fire, precision against raw force. Meiling dashed forward with a streak of crimson, but Riku caught the rhythm in her movement. He sidestepped at the perfect instant, thrusting his palm into her midsection. The hit sent her skidding backward, boots scraping against the polished floor.
Both took a moment to catch their breath. Riku's eyes narrowed slightly, the faint trace of a smirk curling his lips. "Since I managed to touch you..."
Blue-white wings of light flared behind him as the Divine Dividing activated.
[Divide]
Meiling's aura flickered. She gasped as her strength began to drain, knees hitting the ground. "W–What... happened?"
Riku's expression was calm, almost teacher-like. "Divine Dividing—one of my new trump cards. Everything I touch within ten seconds, I halve their energy and absorb it."
Meiling grimaced but didn't yield. "So that's how it works... In that case—"
Her body erupted in scarlet light.
"HAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!"
Qi surged from her in waves, heat distorting the air.
Riku focused, attempting to divide the energy again—but nothing happened.
[While you were monologuing, she started gathering qi,] Albion's dry tone echoed in his mind. [Your ten-second window expired. But don't worry—with training, you'll be able to bypass that limit and divide at will.]
Riku sighed. "Lesson learned. Don't monologue mid-fight." He cracked his neck lightly. "Still... I've got half her power. Let's see what happens when I combine it with a spell."
[Interesting,] Albion mused. [You made a spell card based on me? I'm honored.]
Riku chuckled under his breath and pulled out a black-edged spell card from his pocket. Across from him, Meiling mirrored his movement—each preparing to unleash their technique.
Scarlet light bloomed from Meiling's hand as Riku's aura turned brilliant white. Their voices overlapped, echoing through the chamber.
"Dragon Sign: White Dragon Crushing Claw!" Riku's right arm transformed into a draconic limb, scales of pure lightning wrapping his skin.
"Qi Sign: Sky Piercing Scarlet Palm!" Meiling's hand burned crimson, the qi swirling like a coiling flame.
They launched forward simultaneously—energy compressing between them—
—and then collided.
BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!
The explosion shook the entire estate.
Kuroka's barrier flared gold as she poured magic into it, shielding herself and Rinko from the blast. The air split with the sound of thunder and flame; the floor beneath the combatants cracked, and fragments of tile flew like shrapnel.
Smoke swallowed the room whole, and the lights above flickered. The ventilation system roared to life, dragging the haze upward.
Inside the smoke, faint silhouettes shifted. One staggered forward; another stood unmoving. The clash between lightning and flame had ended—for now—but the air was still humming, alive with the remnants of their power.
Rinko took a tentative step forward, her voice soft but clear. "Riku...?"
No answer yet. Only the echo of their last impact and the steady hiss of dispersing smoke.
Kuroka's ears twitched as she kept the barrier firm. "Easy, Rinko. Wait till the smoke clears, nya..."
The tension held like a drawn bowstring, the line between victory and collapse hidden just beyond the haze.
The ringing aftermath of the explosion still hung in the air when the door to the training room burst open. Miyu, Eli, and Tina rushed inside, their expressions pale with alarm.
Miyu's voice cut through the smoke. "What just happened!?"
Eli scanned the wrecked chamber, the faint scent of ozone still lingering. "We heard an explosion coming from here."
Tina, wide-eyed, hurried to Rinko's side. "Rinko-onee-san, what happened?"
Rinko didn't answer immediately—just pointed toward the hazy center of the room where the smoke was slowly thinning. As the view cleared, all three girls froze. Both Riku and Meiling lay motionless on the floor, their bodies bruised and clothes singed from the sheer force of their last attack.
"Riku-san!" Miyu cried, sprinting forward.
"Riku!" Eli followed close behind, dropping to her knees beside him.
Kuroka released the barrier she had kept around them, the golden shimmer dissolving into the air. Rinko quickly joined the others, her heart pounding. Tina stayed back for a moment, turning toward Kuroka, her tone quiet but sharp.
"What happened here, Kuroka-san?"
Kuroka folded her arms, her tail flicking lazily despite the faint tension in her eyes. "Their spell cards clashed, and this—" she gestured to the cratered floor, cracked walls, and lingering smoke "—is the result. Didn't expect it to end in a draw, nya~. Still, Riku's making progress with the Divine Dividing, so I'd say it's a win in its own way."
Tina exhaled softly, half in relief, half in disbelief, then looked toward Riku—still unconscious, his fiancées gathered protectively around him.
Eli frowned, brushing a stray lock of hair from his forehead. "He's all bruised up."
Miyu bit her lip. "I thought this was supposed to be a friendly spar?"
Rinko gave a small sigh. "He told me before that his training sessions tend to get... a bit extreme."
Eli shot her a look. "And you didn't stop him?"
"Because I trust him," Rinko said quietly. "He knows his limits. Or at least, I thought he did." Her eyes swept over the wreckage—deep craters scattered across the floor, walls webbed with cracks, several light fixtures flickering from the shockwave. "...Though maybe these two got carried away this time."
Eli and Miyu exchanged glances, both nodding silently as they surveyed the devastation. It looked less like a sparring session and more like the aftermath of a battlefield.
Then a faint groan cut through the silence.
"Hey there, you three."
Riku's voice was hoarse but alive. The girls immediately looked down to find him blinking up at them, a small, tired smile tugging at his lips.
Rinko leaned closer. "How're you holding up, Riku?"
He winced as he tried to move. "My body's sore... can't get up... and I'm starving. I want food."
That last line cracked through the tension. The girls exchanged looks before giggling softly, relief washing over them.
Beside them, Meiling stirred, her own voice croaky but amused. "So... our fight ended in a draw."
Riku turned his head slightly toward her. "Yeah. You holding up?"
She exhaled a dry laugh. "Aside from being exhausted? I can't feel my right arm, and I'm pretty sure I've broken a few ribs."
Riku grimaced. "Sorry about that..."
Meiling waved her good hand dismissively. "Don't sweat it. Give me three days and I'll be good as new."
Kuroka, who had been watching the exchange with faint amusement, finally stepped forward. "Why wait three days when I can fix you up right now, nya~?"
Both Riku and Meiling looked up at her. Riku managed a sheepish smile. "Sorry you had to see me like this."
Kuroka chuckled, her grin teasing. "I think I'll get used to it. Keep this up and I might actually fall for you~."
The comment drew immediate side-eyes from Rinko, Eli, and Miyu—all three turning toward the nekoshou with matching deadpan expressions, the air between them sparking in a silent "don't you dare" kind of way.
Riku sighed. "Can you be serious for a second?"
"Alright, alright," Kuroka said, holding up her hands. "No need to get your tail in a twist."
She snapped her fingers, and a glowing violet magic circle spread beneath Riku and Meiling. Warm light enveloped them, and slowly, the bruises and burns across their bodies began to fade. The exhaustion that clung to their limbs lifted like mist. Within moments, the two were back to full strength.
Riku flexed his fingers experimentally as Eli helped him sit up. "That's impressive work, Kuroka."
The cat-girl grinned, placing her hands on her hips. "I'll give the credit to Byakuren-sama. She taught me that spell, along with a few others suited for a nekoshou like me~."
Riku nodded appreciatively. "I'm glad Byakuren-sama helped you refine that. Anyway—" he stretched his arms, rolling his shoulders "—shall we call it a day, Meiling-san?"
Meiling, who had wandered to her bag to check her phone, turned back to him. "Sure. And good timing, too—Sakuya-san just called. Apparently, Patchouli-sama and Marisa are fighting again."
Riku raised a brow. "Again? Let me guess—Marisa's 'borrowing' books she shouldn't?"
Meiling let out an exasperated sigh. "You guessed it."
Riku couldn't help but chuckle, shaking his head. "Some things never change." He lifted his hand and snapped his fingers, summoning a blue-white teleportation circle beneath Meiling. "You have my permission to return to the Koumakan. Tell Patchy I said hi."
Meiling bowed respectfully. "Thank you, Riku-sama. See you again on Tuesday."
Light enveloped her, and within seconds she was gone—leaving behind only the faint shimmer of teleportation residue.
For a moment, the room was quiet again. Dust floated lazily through the air, catching the faint rays of afternoon light filtering through the cracked windowpanes.
Rinko tilted her head, curiosity flickering in her eyes. "Riku, what did you mean earlier about Kirisame-san 'borrowing' books?"
Riku glanced up from where he was crouched near a shattered tile, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Well, if you didn't know, Patchy—Patchouli Knowledge—is known as The Unmoving Great Library. She's basically a walking archive. Any information worth knowing about magic, she's got it. And since Marisa's also a magician, she finds Patchy's library an irresistible goldmine for her research." He paused, dusting his hands off. "So she 'borrows' books... and hasn't returned a single one since."
Miyu frowned. "That sounds a lot like stealing."
Riku chuckled lightly. "To Marisa's words—'I'm not stealing, I'm just borrowing this. I'll return them when I'm dead.'"
The room fell into silence for half a beat before his fiancées, along with Tina and Kuroka, all let out a synchronized sigh. The sweat drop was almost audible.
"So," Eli said dryly, "she's definitely stealing."
"Pretty much," Riku replied with a shrug. "Anyway, that's why Meiling-san had to go back. When she's guarding the gate, Marisa doesn't stand a chance. They don't call her the Immovable Demon Gate for nothing."
Kuroka's ears twitched. "Now that I think about it, a lot of you Gensokyo folks have these fancy titles. What's up with that, nya?"
Riku stood, brushing the dust from his clothes. "They're kind of like nicknames, but with weight. Each one carries meaning—authority, history, or reputation. For example, Yuyuko-san's called the Ghost Princess of the Netherworld, and Eirin-san's known as the Brain of the Moon. Those titles aren't just for show—they reflect who they are and what they've done."
Tina's eyes sparkled with interest. "Do you have a title too, onii-san?"
"I do," Riku said, his tone softening a little. "Though it might change at the next gathering. For now, it's Vessel of the Dragon God."
Kuroka grinned, her tail swishing. "Vessel, huh? Yeah, that fits you perfectly."
Rinko smiled faintly. "What about Kyoya-san? Does he have a title too?"
Riku nodded. "He does. He inherited it from my grandmother after she passed. He's called the Emissary of the Dragon Palace."
Kuroka hummed, her eyes narrowing slightly in respect. "A fitting title for him."
"Anyway," Riku said, stretching his arms before looking around the wrecked training hall, "you girls can head back now. I'll stay behind for a bit."
Rinko raised a brow. "You're planning to clean this whole room by yourself?"
"Kinda," he said, his gaze moving over the debris. "Just enough to clear the mess. I'll let the repair team handle the structural damage."
Miyu folded her arms, a knowing smile forming. "Then let us help. The cleaning will go faster if we pitch in."
Eli nodded in agreement. "Besides, it's not like we've got anything else planned for the rest of the day. Least we can do is lighten your load."
Riku's smile returned. "Alright, I'll take you up on that. Rinko, you joining in?"
"Of course," she said warmly. "What about Kuroka-san and Tina-chan?"
Kuroka shook her head, tail flicking. "Thanks, but I'll pass, nya. I've got a meditation session in a few minutes. I'll also report to your grandfather about what happened here."
"Fair enough," Riku said. "And you, Tina?"
Tina hesitated, rubbing the back of her neck. "I can help... but it looks like you guys already have it covered."
Riku waved a hand dismissively. "Nonsense. The more hands, the faster we finish. And besides, you can use the chance to train your enhancement magic." He pointed toward the corner, where several fractured boulders lay scattered from Meiling's strikes. "Start with those."
Tina followed his gesture and gave a small, confident nod. "Got it."
"Alright," Riku said, glancing back to Kuroka. "You can head off, then. As for the rest of us—let's try to get this done before dinner."
"Hai!" the four girls chimed in unison.
Riku gave a small chuckle at their enthusiasm. "But first things first."
He walked over to a side drawer near the training equipment and pulled out several pairs of sturdy work gloves. Turning, he handed them to his three fiancées.
"Here. Wear these," he said firmly. "I don't want your hands getting dirty—or worse, cut."
Eli smiled softly as she slipped them on. "That's very thoughtful of you, Riku."
Riku smirked faintly. "Thanks. But let's save the compliments for after we finish."
Miyu laughed. "You just don't want to admit you're sentimental."
"Maybe," he said with a shrug, though the faint tint of red on his cheeks betrayed him.
With that, the group spread out. Rinko began sweeping shattered tiles into neat piles while Eli used magic to lift heavier debris into one corner. Miyu helped repair the lighting with small bursts of light energy, while Tina tested her strength magic by lifting a massive stone chunk like it was nothing.
Riku watched them work for a moment, pride glinting in his eyes. Despite the destruction around them, the scene felt oddly peaceful. The sunlight filtering through the high windows caught in the dust motes, making the air shimmer faintly as the laughter and chatter of the girls echoed through the room.
For a man who often found himself surrounded by battles, rivalries, and endless responsibilities, this quiet teamwork—the warmth, the shared purpose—felt like a rare kind of sanctuary.
He took a deep breath, rolled up his sleeves, and joined in. "Alright then," he said, voice steady and light. "Let's get started."
----------
Live House CiRCLE
July 5, 2021 – Monday, 4:30 P.M.
Riku's POV
The soft hum of amplifiers filled the otherwise quiet air of CiRCLE. I leaned back against the counter, letting my gaze drift to the polished stage lights reflecting across the floor. It had been a day since my first practice with the improvised band and my sparring match with Meiling-san, but my muscles still ached faintly. Aya and Hatae were away attending their monthly tengu meeting with Megumu-san, leaving only Marina and me to hold down the fort.
It was calm—too calm. That was usually the first sign of something chaotic about to happen.
Sure enough, the front door swung open, and in came Mafuyu and the rest of 25-ji. Ena was carrying a bag, Mizuki looked as cheerful as ever, and Mafuyu—well, Mafuyu had Kanade slung over her shoulder like she was hauling a sack of rice.
I blinked twice, trying to process what I was seeing.
"...I'd say 'welcome,' but why exactly is Mafuyu carrying Kanade like that?"
Ena sighed. "Kanade tired herself out halfway here. Mafuyu offered to carry her."
I tilted my head. "A thoughtful gesture... but still, I didn't expect the princess carry alternative to look like this."
Mizuki giggled behind. "It was either that, or Mafuyu carrying Kanade on her shoulders. You should've seen the look on her face when we suggested that one~"
"I didn't mind," Mafuyu said in her usual calm tone. "She's very light. It wasn't any trouble."
Kanade, hanging helplessly from Mafuyu's grip, had her face flushed red from embarrassment. I rubbed the back of my neck and decided not to question it further.
"Well... anyway, what brings you all here?"
Ena straightened her bag. "We wanted to practice today, if that's fine."
"I don't mind," I replied. "Though with Kanade like that..."
Mizuki waved with a teasing smile. "Don't worry, Riku-san~ We'll make sure Kanade's fine once she's revived."
"Hmm." I sighed with a half-smile. "Alright then. Studio 5 is open for you."
"Thanks for letting us use it, nii-san," Mafuyu said, setting Kanade down gently this time.
"I'd appreciate it if you dropped her a little less dramatically next time," I said dryly.
Mafuyu blinked. "That was gentle."
"Right. My bad."
As they began moving their equipment, I gestured for Mizuki to stay behind. Ena glanced back, curious, but Mizuki waved off reassuringly. The others disappeared into Studio 5, leaving the two of us alone amid the quiet buzz of the live house.
Mizuki turned toward me, curious but still playful. "So, Riku-san, what did you want to talk about?"
I met Mizuki's eyes steadily. "How long are you planning to keep it a secret?"
The shift was immediate. The smile faded from Mizuki's lips. His posture stiffened. The air around us thickened as though the temperature had dropped.
Mizuki's voice trembled slightly. "...H-how did you—"
I raised a brow. "You forgot what I am, didn't you? Part youkai, remember? I can sense it—the faint trace of your aura. You've done well hiding it, though."
His eyes widened. The color drained from his face as she looked down, hands clutching the hem of his shirt. "Then... are you going to tell the others? Ena... Kanade... Mafuyu?"
"No."
The word hung between us.
Mizuki looked up, disbelief flashing in his eyes. "Eh? You're... not?"
I shook my head. "That's your secret to tell, not mine. It's not my place to reveal it."
His voice was small. "How can I trust you not to?"
I gave a faint, knowing smile. "Because I've kept worse secrets before. And unlike most people, I know when to keep my mouth shut."
For a long moment, silence filled the space. Then, I felt her tension begin to fade. Her shoulders loosened, her breathing evened out. The weight in the room lightened.
But before he could relax completely, I added, "By the way... Mafuyu already knows."
"SHE KNOWS?! HOW?!" Mizuki practically shouted, his voice echoing through the hall.
I chuckled softly. "She's half youkai, remember? She could tell, same as I did. Don't worry—she won't tell anyone. You can trust her."
Mizuki's lips parted slightly. "I... I didn't know she noticed..."
I crossed my arms. "Mafuyu's your friend, right?"
He nodded faintly.
"Then trust her," I continued. "And not just her. Trust Kanade and Ena too. You don't have to know they'll understand—you just have to feel it. That's what friendship is. You lean on each other, even when you're scared to."
His eyes glistened faintly as he looked down at her hands. I could see the conflict written across her face—fear, doubt, and a fragile sort of hope.
"...But what if they don't accept it?" he asked, voice barely a whisper.
"Then that's their mistake," I said simply. "But from what I've seen, those three? They're not the kind to turn their backs. You've been through too much together for that."
For a long while, he said nothing. The quiet hum of the lights filled the space. Then he exhaled slowly, as if letting something go.
"I think... I can do this," he murmured. "But if I... start doubting myself again..."
"You know where to find me," I said. "We'll talk it out. Preferably over a good cup of coffee."
That earned a soft laugh from her—small, but genuine. "You and your coffee, Riku-kun..."
"Hey, it helps," I replied with a faint grin. "Besides, it's better than bottling things up."
He nodded, a spark of confidence returning to his expression. "Thank you... for keeping my secret."
I shrugged. "Just doing what a decent person should."
As he turned to leave, I called out one last thing. "Mizuki."
He stopped, glancing over her shoulder.
"Don't let fear decide how much of yourself you show. The world's full of masks—but your friends deserve to see the real you."
His eyes softened, and she smiled—a quiet, sincere one this time. "...Got it."
Then he walked toward Studio 5, his steps lighter than before.
When the door shut behind him, I leaned back against the counter again, letting out a breath I didn't realize I'd been holding. The faint rhythm of drums and guitar strings began to echo from the studio, their sound rising and blending into something steady.
It was a small thing, really. A secret shared, a weight lifted. But sometimes, that was enough.
I closed my eyes for a moment, listening to the faint laughter behind the music. Then I smiled.
"Yeah... he'll be fine."
Right on schedule, the door opened again. Rinko entered first, followed by Kaoru, Rei, and Maya—each of them carrying their instruments, hair slightly tousled from rushing.
Rinko gave an apologetic smile. "Sorry we took a while."
"It's fine," I replied, setting down my notepad. "But I gotta ask—what took you girls so long? Practice was supposed to start at four, wasn't it?"
Kaoru was the first to bow, her tone half-dramatic and half-genuine. "I humbly apologize for my tardiness, ani-sama. I was delayed because Kokoro was finalizing her festival plans."
That explained plenty. "What kind of plans?"
"She intends to run a stall," Kaoru said, adjusting her guitar strap. "Everyone seemed to like the idea, but I had to refuse. I told her I already had other engagements—namely this practice session."
"Did you tell her what you'd be doing?" I asked.
"Not in detail," she admitted. "Just that I had plans with you. Still, she did ask that you visit her stall once the festival begins."
I nodded faintly. "Noted." Then I looked toward the others. "What about you three?"
Maya rubbed the back of her neck. "Well... Chisato-san kind of caught me red-handed."
That made me pause. "Caught you? Doing what exactly?"
Her eyes darted away. "I, uh... had to tell her everything. But don't worry! It's just Chisato-san!"
I groaned quietly. "Yeah, that's what worries me. You do realize she won't let that slide, right?"
"W-Well," Maya stammered, "she said that if I ever tried to drag you down, she'd... she'd come for me."
I blinked. "She actually said that?"
Maya nodded vigorously.
I exhaled slowly, pinching the bridge of my nose. "I'll talk to Chisato if I can catch her before she plots my kidnapping again."
Rei snorted. "Good luck with that."
I turned to her next. "And you? What's your story?"
Rei looked like she wanted to laugh but thought better of it. "Well... me, Masuki, Rokka, and PAREO were trying to get Chu² to ba—"
"Stop." I cut her off before she could finish. "I already know where that's going. I don't want to know."
She chuckled under her breath. "Suit yourself."
Finally, I turned to Rinko. "And you, Rinko? What's your excuse?"
Rinko held her keyboard case close. "Roselia and I took Ako-chan to the dentist."
That threw me for a loop. "The dentist? How did that happen?"
"Rokka-san texted me that Ako's teeth were hurting all morning," Rinko explained softly. "We took her to get checked, and the dentist said she'd eaten too much candy yesterday. Tomoe-san confirmed it."
I sighed. "She keeps insisting she's not a child, and then she does this... Fine, I'll let it slide this time. Let's just get started."
The girls nodded, relieved, and we headed into one of the vacant studios. Instruments were unpacked, cables were checked, and the room soon filled with the low hum of tuning. Once everyone was ready, I took my place at the center.
"Alright," I said, looking around the group. "We'll pick up where we left off last session. If you feel something's off, don't hesitate to speak up. I want this run to be clean."
A chorus of nods answered me. I counted down with a raised hand. "Three, two, one... let's begin."
The first strum hit, followed by drums, bass, and keys. The sound came together smoothly, no hesitation, no miscues. Hours slipped by in that rhythm—focused, natural, and alive.
Nagae Estate – Riku's Room – 9:30 P.M.
By the time we wrapped up, not a single major issue came up. For once, everything had gone perfectly. I called it a success, though a few tweaks were still needed before we'd be performance-ready.
Back at the estate, I didn't rest right away. Instead, I went straight to the training room for some solo work. It was quiet—just the faint hum of machinery and the smell of gun oil. I had arranged several silenced weapons around me, each programmed to fire live rounds at unpredictable intervals. My eyes remained closed.
The exercise wasn't about endurance or dodging speed—it was about awareness. Kenbonshoku depended on presence, not sight. I breathed deeply, letting instinct replace vision.
The air shifted—
Bang.
I leaned left. The bullet passed my shoulder by a hair.
Another shot came from behind—
Bang.
I ducked, feeling the wind graze my hair.
Round after round, I moved in rhythm, my body syncing to the whispers of pressure and intent. When the last trigger clicked empty, I exhaled and opened my eyes. Sweat trickled down my temple, but my heartbeat was calm.
Dinner followed not long after. Everyone had gathered—Rinko, Kuroka, Tina, and the rest. Mafuyu mentioned between bites that their group had finished a new song and planned to upload it tonight.
Rinko tilted her head. "What's it called?"
"Bad Apple," Mafuyu replied simply.
That caught my attention. "A classic," I said, smiling faintly. "You did justice to it, I'm sure."
The conversation carried on casually, laughter mixing with the clatter of dishes. Once dinner wrapped up, I retreated to my room, switched on my PC, and logged into NFO.
As vice-captain of the guild, keeping track of everyone's progress was part of the job.
"Let's see," I muttered, scanning the guild stats. "Yukina and the others really stepped up this week."
The numbers on-screen were impressive:
OG.Yukina — Level 80, Class: Bard
OG.Lisa — Level 82, Class: Cleric
OG.Sayo — Level 90, Class: Guardian
OG.Demon Princess Ako — Level 99, Class: Summoner
OG.Rin-Rin — Level 100, Class: Elestra
I leaned back in my chair, letting out a low whistle. "That's a big leap... they can actually keep up with us in dungeon raids now."
But what caught my eye was Rinko's new class.
"Elestra, huh..." I murmured. "Didn't think she'd go for that."
Elestra—one of the rarest advanced classes in the game. To unlock it, a player needed total mastery over ice magic—offensive, defensive, and support. Only thirty or so players worldwide had ever reached it.
It wasn't a damage-heavy class; its power lay in control. Elestras could freeze enemies and triple the potency of debuffs applied afterward. In the hands of someone who knew what they were doing, it could turn even the strongest opponents into sitting ducks.
I smirked to myself. "A perfect fit for Rinko... calm, precise, and terrifying once she locks on."
Just as I was finishing my inspection, a sudden pulse ran through my head—a sharp, rhythmic pain. Not the ordinary kind. This one had weight, a familiar pull deep in my consciousness.
I sighed quietly. "Iku..."
Whenever she needed to contact me directly, it always came through this way. If she was doing it now, it had to be serious.
I leaned back in my chair, closing my eyes. My breathing slowed, and I focused inward, letting the physical world dissolve into silence.
The familiar hum of the mindscape began to form—a vast, ethereal space of drifting clouds and faint light, existing somewhere between thought and spirit.
"Iku," I muttered under my breath, as my consciousness slipped fully inside, "what's going on this time?"
Riku's Mindscape – Dragon Palace
When I opened my eyes, the world around me shimmered into view—the jade gates of the Dragon Palace rising high before me, each scale-carved door glowing faintly under the ocean-blue sky of my mindscape. The air carried that familiar hum, a pulse that felt alive, as if the place itself breathed along with me. I exhaled slowly, hand brushing the ornate surface before pushing the doors open.
Inside, the vast hall stretched endlessly. The soft gold light bouncing off the tiled floor felt like dawn breaking underwater. I expected silence, maybe Iku humming to herself somewhere—but what greeted me pulled a faint chuckle from my throat.
There she was. Iku, seated by the main chamber's dais, and just beside her... Tenshi, stirring awake like someone emerging from a dream too long delayed.
Her sapphire eyes blinked once, twice, then found me. The small smile that spread across her face was warm—disarmingly so.
"Good morning, Riku."
I huffed out a breath, sitting down beside her and giving her a soft pat on the head. "It's nine-thirty in the evening, you idiot. But I'm just glad you're finally awake."
Tenshi laughed faintly, stretching her arms before leaning back on her palms. "So, what did I miss?"
"Plenty."
Across the room, Iku rose quietly and headed for the doors, giving us that knowing smile. "I'll give you two some space. Looks like you've got a lot to catch up on."
We both nodded, and soon it was just the two of us—the quiet hum of the Dragon Palace wrapping around us like a soft current.
----------
For the next few hours, I told her everything. Every moment she missed while she was dormant. Tenshi listened silently at first, expression unreadable, then shifted closer with every new story, a small grin forming when I reached the part about the engagements.
When I finished, she didn't say anything right away. She just leaned in and hugged me—tight and wordless. I returned it without thinking, the weight of all those days without her finally lifting.
"To think so much happened while I was gone," she murmured as we broke apart.
"You have no idea," I said, rubbing the back of my neck. "Last month was... a lot."
"Too bad I wasn't there to see it all," Tenshi teased. "But congratulations, Riku. Who would've thought you'd get engaged to four girls?"
I let out a small groan. "Three. My relationship with Rei isn't quite there yet."
"Yet, huh?" Tenshi's smirk widened. "Fair enough. Oh, and Aichi finally confessed to Honoka and Umi, didn't he?"
"Not yet. He's waiting until after the Love Live qualifiers."
She chuckled softly. "Then I'll save my congratulations for later."
"You could always tell him yourself," I suggested.
Her eyes lowered. "You know I can't."
"Not without this."
I summoned the Divine Dividing, the white-and-blue wings of light taking form around my right arm. The gleam reflected in her eyes, and for a moment, she looked like a child seeing the stars for the first time.
"So this is the Sacred Gear you told me about," she said, reaching out to brush her fingers across its edge. "You weren't kidding... I can feel the dragonic energy pulsing through it. And the dragon inside it—he's here, isn't he?"
"Yeah," I nodded. "Iku said Albion's been exploring my mindscape."
As if on cue, I felt a faint rumble in the distance—a deep, ancient pulse that could only belong to that dragon. His presence was like thunder under still water.
"Anyway," I said, glancing toward the upper corridors, "there's another way for you to talk to Aichi. But you'll need to come with me first. Think you can stand?"
Tenshi tried. Her legs trembled, then gave out under her. She frowned, stubborn as ever. "Guess not."
"Figures." I sighed, crouching down in front of her. "Alright, up you go."
Before she could protest, I hoisted her onto my back. She let out a startled sound, then relaxed as I started walking deeper into the Palace. The corridors glowed faintly beneath our steps, echoing with the sound of rushing water beyond the walls.
After a while, she spoke again—her tone softer. "Hey, Riku... are you sure about this?"
"I am," I said. "Iku and I already went over it. Might as well take the gamble."
"You do realize I could totally screw you over if I wanted to."
I chuckled under my breath. "Yeah, but you won't. I know you too well. And you know me."
That earned me a laugh—quiet, genuine. Her arms tightened slightly around my shoulders. "That's why I love you."
Heat crept up my face as she kissed my cheek. "...I love you too, Tenshi."
It wasn't the first time we'd shared words like that, but they always carried a different weight. Our relationship had never been simple. We'd fought, clashed, even tried to kill each other more times than I could count, yet underneath it all, there was this—an unshakable bond that defied the laws binding the Celestial Families.
Love between us was forbidden, said to disturb the balance of power. But it never mattered. She was my sun, and I am her moon.
When we reached the main chamber, Iku was already there—arms crossed, waiting with that calm, amused look that always made it seem like she'd been expecting everything.
"So," she said, "you're really going through with it?"
Tenshi and I exchanged a glance before I answered. "Yeah. We're ready."
"I thought so." Iku gestured to a circular platform in the center of the room, surrounded by flowing glyphs of light. "Place her over there. You can move your arms now, right, Tenshi?"
Tenshi nodded faintly as I lowered her into the vacant seat at the platform's heart. The marble surface beneath her shimmered like moonlight on a still lake.
"Good," Iku said. "Now, put your hands on the panel in front of you. It'll handle the rest."
Tenshi exhaled slowly, her fingers trembling slightly as she pressed them onto the glowing panel. Instantly, veins of light raced outward, and the chamber filled with a violet glow that rippled across the walls like waves.
A moment later, a huge translucent monitor materialized before us. The image it projected was clear and startlingly familiar—my room.
Tenshi's eyes widened. "Is that—?"
"Yeah," I confirmed. "That's my room. From here, you can basically see everything through my eyes. Eventually, you'll be able to control my body too—but for now, just observation."
"Fascinating," Tenshi whispered, leaning forward.
Back to Reality
Third POV
When Riku opened his eyes again, the faint shimmer of his mindscape faded away, replaced by the familiar walls of his bedroom. Control returned to his limbs, slow and heavy at first, but steady enough to move. He exhaled, glancing at the small house phone beside his desk before picking it up.
"Youmu, come to my room for a bit. I want to talk to you about something," he said, his tone calm and measured.
"Hai. I'll be there in a moment," came Youmu's reply.
Riku placed the phone back on its cradle and leaned back, waiting. The seconds passed quietly until the sound of quick, light footsteps echoed in the hallway. Then, a knock.
"Come in," he said.
Youmu slid open the door. "I'm here as you ordered me to. Is somethi—Riku-kun!!"
Her voice shot up in panic as she saw him crumpled on the floor. She darted forward, kneeling at his side and shaking his shoulder.
"Riku-kun! Are you okay?!"
Then, to her shock—
"Come on now, Youmu. Of course I'm alright~"
The voice was softer, teasing, carrying a sing-song lilt that most definitely didn't belong to Riku. Youmu froze, her instincts flaring. That wasn't him. Not even close.
Her eyes narrowed as she stepped back and called forth her twin blades—Roukanken and Hakurouken—their spectral energy slicing faint blue arcs through the air.
"Who are you?" she demanded.
Riku—no, the thing inside Riku—raised both hands frantically. "Wait! Wait! It's me! Tenshi!"
The name hit like a dropped stone. Youmu hesitated, eyes flickering with disbelief before focusing sharply. She didn't lower her swords yet—but she looked. Carefully.
And there it was. A faint golden-white aura rippling faintly around Riku's form—radiant, ethereal, unmistakably Tenshi's.
"Tenshi? But... how? Riku-kun said you wouldn't wake until September!"
Tenshi—speaking through Riku's body—gave a small, amused smile. "I would've, if I'd stayed dormant somewhere neutral. But Riku's been wandering through places dense with spiritual energy—Hakugyokurou, Moriya Shrine—and, well, the biggest boost came from his Sacred Gear."
Youmu blinked, then let out a breath and dismissed her swords. "I see... so that's why. My apologies, Tenshi. I was worried something had happened to Riku-kun."
"Don't worry about him," Tenshi said lightly. "He's right here with me. Iku too."
That assurance only half-settled Youmu's nerves, but she nodded anyway. "Then... how does this work, exactly? Can Riku-kun talk to us while you're in control?"
A faint chuckle echoed—not from the body before her, but from somewhere deeper, resonating through the room like a whisper on wind.
[Well, I can always use this.]
At those words, Riku's left hand glowed, summoning the Divine Dividing. Its gem pulsed with azure light, and within that glow, Riku's voice came through clearly.
"Riku-kun!" she gasped, stepping closer.
[I'm fine, Youmu. The reason I called you here was to test this little system. Looks like it worked perfectly.]
Youmu tilted her head. "What worked, exactly?"
[Tenshi's ability to speak and act while controlling my body.]
Her expression flattened. "You let her possess you just to test a communication method?"
Tenshi grinned with Riku's face, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Oh, come on. It's not possession—it's cooperation."
Youmu didn't look convinced. "I can already tell you two are plotting something again. Don't tell me—"
Her words trailed off when both Riku and Tenshi chuckled at the same time, one echoing from the body, the other from the Sacred Gear.
"Oh, before I forget," Tenshi added, leaning slightly forward with a sly smile, "keep this a secret until the festival, okay?"
"Heh? Why would I do that?"
[Trust me,] Riku said through the gear, [the surprise will be worth it.]
Youmu stared at them both, exhaled, and finally surrendered with a resigned sigh. "Fine, fine. I'll play along. But if this ends with explosions or divine chaos again, I'm not cleaning up."
"No promises," Tenshi chimed, laughing softly.
Once the test was over, Youmu relaxed her shoulders, the tension fading from her face. "So, Tenshi will be performing during the festival, then?"
Riku's voice hummed faintly through the gem. [Exactly. She's got something special in mind.]
Understanding dawned on Youmu's face, followed by a rare laugh—light and genuine. "I should've known. Alright, I'll keep my mouth shut. Just don't scare the others half to death when it happens."
Tenshi offered a mock salute with Riku's hand. "No promises there either~"
Youmu shook her head with a smile, already turning toward the door. "Good night, you two. Try not to switch souls again before morning."
"No guarantees!" Tenshi called playfully after her as the door slid shut behind the half-ghost.
Silence filled the room again, save for the faint hum of the Divine Dividing's light.
[Looks like it worked perfectly,] Riku murmured from within.
Tenshi smirked, stretching Riku's arms. "Told you it would."
----------
Kirigaya Kimono Shop
July 10, 2021 — Saturday — 3:00 P.M.
Rinko's POV
The Tanabata Festival had finally arrived, and everyone was buzzing with anticipation. The only problem—none of us had kimonos.
When Riku and Kyoya-san found out, they both looked equally stunned. Apparently, Eli-san, Mafuyu-san, and Tina-chan didn't own one yet. Only Miyu-chan was prepared. So Kyoya-san arranged for us to visit the Kirigaya Kimono Shop, explaining that the Nagae family had long-standing business ties with the Kirigayas—every formal outfit the family owned came from them. That was reason enough for Riku to tag along.
Now here we were—Eli-san, Mafuyu-san, Tina-chan, and I—standing in front of the Kirigaya storefront, a blend of traditional charm and modern polish. Polished cedar wood framed the doors, and paper lanterns hung neatly in rows, their warm glow dancing against the glass.
Just as Riku reached for the handle, the door slid open from the inside.
A tall girl with wavy blonde hair stepped out, her light-brown eyes widening in surprise. She wore a sky-blue jacket over a salmon hoodie, shorts, and multicolored sneakers. A thin belt looped around her waist, and a gold pendant glimmered against her chest.
"Oh! Sorry about that—" she began, then broke into a grin when she spotted Riku. "Oh! Riku! What brings you here?! And surrounded by girls, no less! Look at you, man, living the dream already~"
Before anyone could react, she started smacking Riku's back like they were old friends.
"Get your mind out of the gutter," he deadpanned. "We're here to buy kimonos for the girls. That's all."
Eli blinked and tilted her head slightly. "Um, Riku... who is she?"
The blonde straightened, flashing a bright smile. "Right, introductions! I'm Kirigaya Touko, first-year at Tsukinomori Girls' Academy. My family owns this place. So, Riku—who are your lovely companions?"
Riku began pointing us out, one by one.
"The little one here is Tina."
Tina-chan gave a small, polite bow. "My name is Tina Alexeyev. It's a pleasure to meet you, Touko-onee-san."
Touko crouched slightly to match Tina's height, grinning. "Good to meet you too, Tina-chan~ You're adorable!"
Riku continued. "Behind me is my sister, Mafuyu."
Mafuyu inclined her head, formal but gentle. "Nagae Mafuyu, second year at Hanasakigawa Girls' High School. Nice to meet you, Kirigaya-san."
Touko blinked in mild surprise. "Wait—you have a sister? Last time I heard, you were an only child."
Riku gave a half-shrug. "A lot's changed since then. Moving on—on my left is Eli."
"Ayase Eli. Third-year and student council president at Otonokizaka Girls' High School," Eli said, her tone polite but friendly.
Touko's grin widened. "Oh~ the famous president herself! Nice to meet you, Eli-kaichou~"
Eli let out a light sigh. "You can drop the 'kaichou,' please. Just call me Eli."
"If you say so."
Riku gestured toward me last. "And lastly, Shirokane Rinko."
For some reason, Touko's expression shifted to one of faint surprise—almost recognition. I blinked, a bit puzzled, until she explained.
"So you're that Rinko. Huh. You look just like how she described you."
I tilted my head. "You already know me?"
"Yup~ Rui told us about you and Riku."
Riku's eyes widened a fraction. "Wait—you know Rui? As in Yashio Rui?"
Touko chuckled. "Sure do~ we go to the same school after all. Anyway! Enough standing out here—come on in!"
We stepped inside, and the air changed instantly. The faint scent of silk and camellia oil lingered in the air. Every wall was lined with shimmering fabrics—midnight blues, delicate creams, vibrant reds—each kimono pattern unique and alive. The artistry of the stitching was breathtaking, like each design carried its own story.
Touko turned toward us with an energetic flourish. "Alright then, let's get to business, shall we?"
Riku nodded. "I'd like to buy one kid-sized kimono and three regular-sized ones."
"Easy enough~ Let's start with Tina-chan's first—"
Before she could move, a new voice called from behind the counter.
"I'll take care of the little one, Touko."
We turned and saw a graceful woman with long chestnut hair tied loosely at her back, hazel eyes gleaming with quiet confidence. She wore a silvery-white kimono embroidered with lilies, elegant and understated.
"Mama!" Touko exclaimed.
The woman smiled softly. "Oya~ it's been a while since I've seen you, Riku. The last time you visited was when Miku was still around."
Riku gave a small, respectful bow. "Hai. It's been that long, Asuna-san."
Mafuyu glanced at him curiously. "Nii-san, who is she?"
Riku turned slightly. "Everyone, this is Kirigaya Asuna—Touko's mother. She and Touko's grandmother run the shop."
Asuna's warm gaze fell on Tina. "Come along, little one. Let's find something that suits you."
Tina nodded obediently and followed Asuna deeper into the shop, her small hands clutching the hem of her skirt.
Once they disappeared behind a curtain, Touko stretched her arms. "Well~ since Mama's handling Tina-chan, I'll take you all to the regular section. Let's see what catches your eye!"
Eli fell into step beside Riku as we followed. "Is it alright to leave Tina like that?" she asked, mild concern in her tone.
Riku shook his head. "It's fine. Asuna-san handles the children's kimonos personally. It's tradition here."
"Yup~" Touko added cheerfully. "Mama takes care of the kids, Grandma manages the elderly clients, and I handle the regulars. We've got the system down."
Mafuyu gave a small hum. "Wouldn't that be exhausting? Balancing school and shop work?"
Touko laughed, brushing it off. "Don't worry~ I've been doing this since I was ten. I'll inherit the place after graduation anyway, so I might as well get used to it. The festival just makes it extra busy."
Riku smirked faintly. "You always were the type to keep your hands full."
"Hey~ I prefer 'dedicated.'"
We finally reached the aisle filled with regular-sized kimonos. The rows were dazzling—folds of silk, satin, and cotton layered in precise harmony. Gold threads shimmered faintly under the overhead light.
Touko clapped her hands. "Alright, ladies. Take your pick! Choose whatever feels right to you. The festival starts in three hours, so—no pressure~"
Riku crossed his arms, his tone steady but kind. "She's right. Just go with what your heart tells you."
Eli, Mafuyu, and I exchanged a quick look before answering in unison. "Hai!"
We scattered across the room, each drawn toward different colors and patterns. Eli gravitated toward the deep blues and elegant golds, something regal that reflected her calm authority. Mafuyu-san lingered among the lighter shades—lavender, cream, soft pink—touching the fabric gently as if weighing its warmth.
Riku's POV
The others had already scattered into the aisles to find their ideal kimonos, leaving me standing beside Touko. The playful gleam in her gyaru-styled smile softened into something more genuine—less teasing, more real.
Touko folded her arms and leaned against a rack of crimson fabric. "I heard from Mama that you got engaged. So, who's the lucky one? Is it Rinko? Or maybe Eli?"
I exhaled through my nose, amused but unbothered. "You'll find out soon enough at the gathering in August. For now, I'd rather keep it under wraps."
She raised her brows. "Fine, fine. Keep your secrets. You always did like your suspense." Her voice shifted, losing its usual bounce. "Say, Riku... why's Rui like that?"
The question landed heavier than expected. I closed my eyes for a brief moment, letting out a quiet sigh before meeting her gaze again.
"Something happened years ago," I said, my tone flattening, hiding the ache beneath it.
Touko tilted her head, curious but careful. "Did something happen between the two of you?"
I shook my head faintly. "Just... personal matters. Things that can't be solved overnight."
She seemed to catch the finality in my voice and didn't pry. "Since you asked so nicely, I'll tell you—she's been doing fine at school. Still Rui though—quiet, keeps to herself unless you drag her out."
Before I could respond, a cheerful voice echoed through the store.
"Touko-chan~ We're here~!"
Touko and I turned toward the entrance. Four girls stood there, the bell above the door chiming softly as sunlight spilled across the tatami.
The first girl, with shoulder-length bluish-white hair and soft light-blue eyes, clutched her bag nervously. Even from a distance, I could feel her timid aura. She wore a striped dark cyan dress over a white shirt tied neatly with a pale indigo bow.
Next to her was a pink-haired girl, her twin-tails bouncing slightly as she adjusted the yellow ribbons holding them. Her pink eyes shimmered with playfulness. She wore a pale pink pinafore over a white blouse, the cross necklace at her collar glinting as she grinned.
Beside her stood a small girl with dark purple hair in low twin-tails and bright orange eyes. Her yellow polka-dot dress, pink belt, and reddish-brown flats gave her the vibe of someone cheerful yet grounded.
The last girl, however, made my breath hitch. Dark brown hair framing her face, mature brownish-red eyes—poised, calm, familiar. Rui.
She froze the moment her gaze found mine.
"Rui?" I said quietly. "Is that you?"
Her lips parted slightly, eyes flickering with emotion before she regained composure.
The white-haired girl glanced between us. "Rui-san, he seems to know you."
"I do," Rui answered softly. "We're... childhood friends."
Touko grinned. "Shiro! Everyone! You made it. Here to rent kimonos?"
The pink-haired girl yawned dramatically. "Yeah~ Shiro-chan wanted to go to the festival in one, so we figured we'd tag along." Her tone was airy, a bit like Moca's lazy sing-song rhythm.
The short purple-haired one puffed her cheeks. "Umm, Touko-chan, are you gonna introduce him or what?"
Touko blinked. "Oh, right! Totally forgot." She stepped aside, gesturing toward me with a flourish. "Girls, meet Riku—the one Rui talked about."
I offered a small nod. "Nagae Riku. Nice to meet you all."
The timid girl bowed quickly, her hands clasped together. "P-pleased to meet you... I'm Kurata Mashiro..."
I tilted my head, watching how her shoulders trembled just from introducing herself. "She really does have low self-esteem, doesn't she?" I muttered without thinking.
Mashiro froze, eyes wide, as if struck by an invisible arrow.
Touko blinked at me. "Wow... Rui did say you were blunt, but I didn't think you'd go that far."
The short girl with purple hair crossed her arms. "I didn't expect you to be this straightforward. Anyway—Futaba Tsukushi." She smiled faintly. "Nice to meet you, Riku-san."
"Just Riku's fine," I replied. "Formality makes me uneasy."
The pink-haired one giggled. "That's exactly what Rui-Rui said you'd say. Oh, I'm Hiromachi Nanami~"
Rui quietly sighed, clearly resigned to the chaos surrounding her.
I glanced around at the group. "So these are your friends, Touko. Guess that means you all go to Tsukinomori?"
Touko nodded proudly. "Yup~ all first-years. Big school, small world."
"I see." My tone shifted slightly. "Touko, mind if I borrow Rui for a bit? There's something we should talk about."
The air thickened immediately. Touko looked between us, realizing there was no avoiding this. Rui met my gaze evenly, though her hand tightened around her bag strap.
Touko gave a light shrug. "Alright. Shiro, Nanami, Fuusuke—let's give them space."
Mashiro hesitated. "But Touko-chan... are you sure? Rui-san looked like she didn't want to talk to him."
Touko leaned close, lowering her voice. "They'll have to talk sometime. Might as well now." She clapped her hands together. "Now come on! We've got kimonos to pick before the good ones run out!"
She cheerfully herded the others toward another aisle, leaving me and Rui alone amid the quiet rustle of fabric.
Rui was the first to speak, her tone cool. "You seem persistent."
"I learned it from someone," I said.
She exhaled softly through her nose, amused but guarded. "Figures."
I gestured toward the door. "Let's talk somewhere else. Easier without eyes and ears."
"I suppose that's logical," she replied.
I took out my phone. "Hold on, I'll let Rinko know."
Rui's brows lifted slightly. "Rinko's here?"
"She's picking her kimono. Came with me, Mafuyu, and Eli."
"Is it alright to leave her?"
"She'll understand. It's you, after all."
That earned me a fleeting, unreadable look before she turned away.
I messaged Rinko quickly. Heading out to talk with Rui. Let the others know. Her reply came almost immediately—short, supportive.
"Alright," I said, slipping the phone back into my pocket. "Rinko gave us the green light."
"Then lead the way."
We stepped out into the summer afternoon. The cicadas were screaming again, the kind of constant background noise that made silence feel heavier. The streets were lined with festival lanterns still unlit, their colors pale in the sunlight.