Nagae Estate
6:30 P.M.
By the time I made it back to the estate, the weight of the day pressed hard on my shoulders. The lights from the front hall spilled out warmly into the dusk, a quiet contrast to the chaos I'd just left behind at the Koumakan.
The doors opened, and I was immediately met by two familiar faces — Miyu and Eli — waiting with expectant smiles. Before I could even greet them, the pink-haired angel lunged forward, wrapping her arms around me.
"Welcome back, Riku-san," she said softly, as I can feel her breath to my clothes whilst I returned the hug.
I couldn't help but smile at her enthusiasm. "I'm home, Miyu. You too, Eli." My gaze drifted past them. "Where's Rinko?"
Eli brushed a lock of blonde hair behind her ear. "She's finishing up some student council paperwork. I think she should be done by now. How about we sit down in the living room and you tell us what happened?"
"Yeah," I replied, rolling my shoulders slightly. "Let's do that."
As we stepped into the living room, the calm atmosphere felt almost alien after what I'd seen today. Then my eyes caught something — or rather, someone — on the sofa.
Kokoro was there, fast asleep, resting her head peacefully on Kuroka's lap.
"What the—?" I blinked. "Why is Kokoro still here?"
Kuroka looked up, ears twitching, and flashed a sly grin. "After lunch, I kept her treatment going. She melted right into the senjutsu energy, and well..." She motioned down at the sleeping girl. "It worked too well."
"You could've just moved her to a guest room, right?"
"Could've," Kuroka admitted with a shrug, her tail swaying lazily. "But she looked too comfortable. Besides, I felt a bit responsible for knocking her out cold. This lap pillow is my form of apology. Anyway—" her golden eyes narrowed slightly "—how did it go?"
I dropped onto the sofa beside her and exhaled deeply. "A lot happened. I'll tell Grandfather everything after dinner. You can join if you want. For now..." I leaned back and let my head fall against the cushions, "I just need to breathe."
Kuroka watched me quietly for a moment, her gaze softening. "Riku," she said finally, "you've got excess magic leaking out of you."
I blinked, straightening. "Wait, really?"
She nodded. "Yeah. Feels recent too. Did something happen while you were away?"
"Like I said," I replied, tired but firm, "I'll explain it all later."
Satisfied, she gave a low hum and turned her attention to the television remote I'd picked up.
Eli tilted her head. "What are you watching?"
"If I've got the timing right," I said, flipping through the channels, "your cousin Yaroslav and his band should be playing about now."
Eli's eyes widened. "Really? I didn't know the PBC broadcasted on TV."
"Well, not here," I corrected, landing on a channel with Cyrillic text. "But this Russian network covers the Eastern European branch. They've been showing all the major matches live."
Just as I settled in, the faint click of heels approached from the hall. Rinko appeared, her usually neat bangs a little messy but her expression relaxed.
"Riku, you're back." She sat down gracefully beside me. "How did it go with Patchouli-san?"
I gave her a faint smile that didn't quite reach my eyes. "Didn't get the chance to talk. Her condition's bad."
Miyu's tone softened with worry. "Does she have some kind of illness?"
"She's had a weak body since birth," I said quietly. "Chronic asthma. Barely leaves the library."
Kuroka frowned. "So she's cooped up all day? No sunlight, no fresh air. That's no good for anyone."
"Yeah," I agreed, rubbing the bridge of my nose. "But it's her nature, I guess." Then I glanced at Rinko. "Eli said you were busy with council work?"
"I was," Rinko said, stretching her arms with a small sigh. "Transfer documents came in about an hour ago. I just finished sorting them and sent them to Yuyuko-san."
"A transfer student?" I raised a brow. "Summer's close. Why now of all times?"
"She needed time to recover before enrollment," Rinko explained. "Apparently, she was dealing with some personal matters."
"Do you have her name?"
Rinko glanced down at her tablet. "Nino Reed."
My head snapped up. "Wait—Nino? She's here?"
Everyone turned to look at me, startled.
Miyu blinked. "Riku-san, you know her?"
"Yeah," I said with a faint chuckle. "We go way back. She's one of my few overseas friends. Smart, sharp, and... a damn talented magician."
The room collectively froze.
Rinko, Miyu, and Eli all stared. "She's a what?"
Kuroka's ears perked. "Nya? She's a magician?"
"What?" I raised a brow. "You think magic's only practiced in Japan? There are magicians all over the world. Nino just happens to be one of them." I smirked faintly. "Besides, I was the one who trained her."
Rinko's lips parted slightly, a flicker of something uncertain crossing her expression. "Um... Riku... you and Nino, are you two—"
Before she could finish, I reached out and poked her forehead lightly. "No. She's my student, not my lover. Don't get the wrong idea. And she's already taken, last I heard."
Rinko flushed lightly. "I didn't say anything."
"Didn't have to," I teased. Then my expression sobered. "But her being here... it's strange. She wouldn't transfer without reason. Unless—" My voice trailed off as the thought formed. "Of course..."
Eli leaned forward. "Riku, did you figure something out?"
"Maybe." My eyes narrowed slightly in thought. "I'll ask her myself tomorrow."
"Good idea," Rinko said, moving closer to sit beside me. The faint scent of her perfume lingered, familiar and grounding.
Just then, Ayabe entered the room carrying a medium-sized parcel. He bowed slightly. "Riku-sama, a package arrived for you."
I frowned. "A package? I don't remember ordering anything."
"It came from VALVE, sir."
"VALVE?" I blinked in surprise. "Alright, take it to my room."
"As you wish," Ayabe said, leaving quietly with the parcel.
Rinko turned to me, curiosity clear in her voice. "What did they send you?"
"No clue," I replied. "I'll check it later." Then I leaned back against the sofa. "Anyway, looks like it's starting."
Right on cue, the live broadcast shifted to the stage — the crowd roaring, lights flashing across the screen. Yaroslav and his band took their positions under the spotlights, instruments gleaming.
The rhythmic pulse of the drums kicked in, followed by the soaring sound of an electric guitar. Despite everything that had happened today — the battle, the blood, the tension — I felt my chest ease just a little as the music filled the room.
For a brief moment, everything felt normal again.
Nagae Estate – Riku's Room
9:30 P.M.
The evening breeze brushed softly against the windows of Riku's room, carrying the faint scent of rain-soaked grass from the garden below. Hours had passed since Team Spirit's clean 2-0 victory against Outsiders—an intense match that Riku and the others had followed closely on television. Afterward, they shared a quiet dinner, the conversation light and easy.
When the meal ended, Ayabe had driven Kokoro home, still fast asleep from Kuroka's treatment earlier. Riku and Kuroka then met with his grandfather in the study to report what had happened that afternoon at the Koumakan. The report was thorough, and though his grandfather's expression barely shifted, the measures he enacted afterward spoke volumes—an immediate reinforcement of the estate's security and a complete overhaul of its anti-magic protocols. He even approved Riku's suggestion to assign protection details for the girls.
Kuroka had asked to roam the city afterward. She explained, in her usual languid tone, that she needed to reinforce the spiritual seals she'd set up days ago. Riku simply nodded his permission. When it came to defense, he trusted her instincts more than anyone else's.
Now, the mansion was calm. Riku sat cross-legged on the carpet of his dimly lit room, Rinko beside him with a look that was half curiosity, half anticipation. The package from VALVE rested before them—a stack of three sleek, black boxes of varying sizes. One was small enough to fit in the palm, another large and rectangular like a framed portrait, and a final one even smaller, resting on top like a ring case.
Riku exhaled through his nose. "Alright... let's see what's inside the small one first."
The lid came off with a soft click. Inside lay a golden replica of the Aegis of Champions, gleaming under the light of his desk lamp. The details were immaculate—tiny engravings, the curling inscriptions along the rim, and the faint shimmer of the gold-plated finish.
"To think I'd get this now," he murmured.
Rinko tilted her head, eyes widening. "Riku, what is that?"
He smiled faintly, lifting the miniature trophy between his fingers. "It's part of the TI10 Premium Collection. Looks like VALVE decided to send me the full set."
"TI10 Premium Collection?" she echoed, intrigued but clearly out of her depth.
Riku chuckled. "In gaming terms, think of it as a battle pass—an exclusive reward system tied to The International, our world championship. You can only get this mini Aegis after spending a certain amount of money on it."
Rinko blinked, already sensing where this was going. "And... how much did you spend?"
He scratched his cheek, trying to sound casual. "Hmm... I think it was around seventeen thousand dollars."
Rinko nearly choked on air. "Seventeen—seventeen thousand?!"
Riku shrugged. "Yeah. Honestly, that's on the lower end among pros. Some of the guys went way over that."
Her expression flattened in disbelief. "You mean there are players who spent more?"
"Plenty," Riku replied, smirking. "At TI9, an Arabian prince spent two hundred fifty thousand. Quarter of a million, just like that. But hey—every dollar went straight to the prize pool. So technically, we all benefited."
Rinko leaned back, speechless. Her expression said it all: she was still trying to process the kind of world her boyfriend operated in.
Riku placed the Aegis back in its case and reached for the next box. When he opened it, his lips curved into a genuine smile. "Ah, there it is."
Rinko leaned closer, curious. "What did you get this time?"
"My TI10 ring finally came." He held it up, and the light caught on the gold band, scattering brilliance across the room. The ring was exquisite—crafted with diamond inlays and a large hexagonal sapphire in the center. The letters "OG" gleamed in white diamonds, while the Red Bull insignia was detailed with ruby and topaz. Along the sides were engraved the names of the teams OG had faced: SEC 2-0, INV 2-0, PSG.LGD 2-0, TS 3-0. Below those, the number 62 was etched—his jersey number.
"Wow..." Rinko whispered. "It's beautiful. Riku, can I see the other two as well?"
He chuckled and reached for his phone. "They're not here—I keep them in my office at CiRCLE. But I've got photos."
He scrolled through his gallery and showed her the images. The first was the TI8 ring—a silver band with an emerald hexagon in the center and OG's old logo engraved on the face. Two small diamonds on the sides marked the band's early triumphs at the Future World Fes.
Then came the TI9 ring, cast in bronze and adorned with an amethyst centerpiece. The "OG" and Red Bull logos were crafted from silver diamonds, and the sides bore detailed engravings: Group Stage 15-1 and Main Stage 9-3.
Rinko's eyes softened as she stared at the photos. "So much history in just three rings..."
Riku smiled faintly. "Each one carries a different story. Different version of us." He turned the TI10 ring in his fingers, curious. Something about the craftsmanship felt unique. "Hmm... there has to be some kind of gimmick on this one..."
After a moment of fiddling, the sapphire centerpiece shifted under his touch—it rotated smoothly, revealing a hidden engraving beneath. His breath caught. "Well, I'll be damned..."
"What is it?" Rinko asked, leaning closer.
He smiled. "They listed everyone who's ever been part of OG. Musicians, players, the whole lineup through the years. They really went above and beyond with this."
He set the ring aside and reached for the last box—the largest of the three. The moment he lifted the lid, he froze. For a long moment, he simply stared, an unreadable expression crossing his face.
"Aw man... they really did," he murmured.
Rinko peeked inside—and her eyes widened at the sight. It was a framed photograph, printed in stunning quality: Riku and his teammates, arms raised high, clutching the Aegis of Champions under a storm of golden fireworks. The background shimmered with confetti and the blinding lights of the arena stage.
"So that's you at The International," Rinko said softly. "You look... really happy in that picture."
Riku gazed at it for a long while, the faintest hint of nostalgia in his smile. "Yeah... I guess I do look happy." His voice carried a strange weight, like the memory still echoed somewhere deep inside him—both a triumph and a goodbye.
"Where will you put it?" she asked.
"I was thinking of hanging it at CiRCLE, but..." He looked around the room, his expression softening. "Maybe it belongs here. Feels right somehow. I'll ask Ayabe or one of the staff to mount it tomorrow."
A comfortable silence lingered between them. The TV was off, the room dim except for the warm light of the desk lamp.
After a moment, Rinko spoke again, her tone quieter. "Riku... since we still have time... can you listen to my piano? For old time's sake?"
He turned to her, surprised but touched. Her eyes held a gentle sincerity—the kind that always tugged at him no matter how many times he saw it.
"Sure," he said simply. "Let's do that."
Rinko smiled, rising to her feet as the faint rustle of her skirt brushed against the carpet. As she walked toward the piano by the window, Riku leaned back on the sofa, still holding the gleaming ring in his palm. The gold caught the lamplight, reflecting a thousand tiny sparks that danced like stars across the room.
Outside, the rain began to fall again—soft, rhythmic, almost melodic. When Rinko's fingers touched the keys, the first notes rose to meet the patter of the storm, weaving into something calm and nostalgic. Riku closed his eyes, letting the music carry him back—to memories of long nights, old friends, and the weight of a trophy that once felt like the whole world.
And yet, listening to her play, he realized something simple. Maybe happiness wasn't only found on the stage or beneath fireworks. Maybe it was in quiet moments like this—where the world finally felt still
The Next Day
Hanasakigawa Girl's High School – Yuyuko's Office
July 12, 2021 – Monday – 6:45 A.M.
The early light of dawn filtered through the wide windows of Yuyuko-san's office, soft and warm against the pale curtains. Outside, the campus was still quiet, the hum of morning traffic faint in the distance. Inside, I sat on the sofa, the faint steam of freshly brewed tea curling from the porcelain cup in his hands.
It was earlier than usual. Normally, I would've been driving Eli and Miyu to their schools before heading here, but today was different. The message from Yuyuko-san last night had been short and direct—"Come to my office early. There's someone you should meet."
I'd followed without question. Kazehana, Nazuna, Mitsuri, and Sakurako had all taken over my morning routes, giving him the rare freedom to arrive early.
Yuyuko sat behind her desk, her usual playful smile tempered by something more thoughtful. Youmu stood quietly beside her, hands folded neatly as always.
"Sorry to call you in this early, Riku-kun," Yuyuko-san began, her tone apologetic but still carrying that sing-song cadence she never quite lost. "I know you usually have your hands full in the mornings with Eli-chan and Miyu-chan."
I shook my head lightly. "It's fine. The girls can handle it for me once in a while. But... I assume this isn't just a casual chat."
Yuyuko-san's smile deepened. "Sharp as ever. It's about the transfer student who's joining us today."
I straightened up a little. "You mean... Nino, right? If that's the case, I don't mind helping. I know she'll need someone familiar to help her adjust."
"I'm glad you understand," Yuyuko-san said, her voice softening. "And what a coincidence... I brought her with me~ You can come in now~"
The office door opened with a faint creak. Standing there was a young girl with short, mint-green hair held back by a violet hairband. She wore the Hanasakigawa uniform neatly, though her posture gave away a hint of nervousness.
I blinked, momentarily caught off guard by how much she'd changed. Gone was the timid little girl who used to struggle to speak above a whisper. Without realizing it, I rose from my seat and approached her, a faint smile tugging at his lips.
"You've grown up, Nino."
At the sound of his voice, the girl's composure shattered. She lunged forward, wrapping her arms tightly around me. The impact was sudden but gentle, her trembling frame pressing against his chest.
"Riku..."
Her voice cracked on my name, and then the tears came. She buried her face into my uniform, sobbing uncontrollably. I glanced toward Yuyuko-san and Youmu, silently asking if they knew what had brought this on. Both shook their heads quietly.
So I just held her. His hand came to rest on her back, rubbing in slow, steady circles as she cried. It was a long few minutes before her sobs began to fade into quiet sniffles.
When she finally pulled back, her eyes were red and puffy, her cheeks streaked with tears.
"You okay now?" I asked her gently.
"I... I'm fine now," she murmured, voice trembling. "Sorry I had to do that."
I smiled faintly. "You don't have to apologize for crying."
For a moment, silence filled the room, broken only by the soft clink of Yuyuko-san setting her teacup down. Riku studied Nino's expression, then spoke quietly.
"So... what brings you here to Japan? What happened to your father? Your brothers?"
Nino hesitated. Her fingers tightened around the hem of her skirt. When she finally spoke, her voice was so small it almost vanished.
"Dad... Big Brother Lloyd... Big Brother Linus... they're dead."
The air in the room froze. Even Yuyuko-san's usual smile faded, her eyes widening slightly in shock.
I blinked a few times, the words barely registering. "What...?"
Her lips quivered. "We were attacked... without warning. Dad tried to fight back, but his magic—it wasn't working on them. They killed him in an instant. We ran, but Lloyd and Linus stayed behind... they told us to go... said they'd buy us time." Her voice cracked again. "Me and Ursula ran ahead, and... and..."
I placed a hand on her shoulder before she could force the rest out. "That's enough, Nino. You don't need to relive it."
She sniffled, biting her lip hard as if to stop herself from breaking down again.
Yuyuko-san stepped in then, her tone calm but laced with quiet concern. "I see... You came here under Yukari's arrangement, didn't you?"
Nino nodded. "Yes. Miss Yukari saved us. She gave us directions to where Jaffar was after I got separated from him and Ursula. Later, we met Uncle Legault in Stockholm. He helped us hide until it was safe to travel here."
My eyes softened. "So that's why Yukari-san's been gone for the past few months." I paused, then asked, "Nino... do you know what happened yesterday?"
Her brow furrowed. "Yesterday?"
Yuyuko-san's gaze turned grim. "Nergal made his move. The Scarlet Devil Mansion was attacked."
"What?" she whispered.
I nodded slowly. "Aichi and I were visiting when it happened. We stopped it before things got worse. The one leading the attack was a woman named Sonia."
The name seemed to strike her like lightning. Nino's body went rigid, her breathing shallow.
"Nino?" I said, my voice rising slightly as I noticed her hands trembling. "What's wrong?"
She didn't respond at first. Her gaze was distant, haunted. When she finally spoke, her voice was a whisper of pure anguish.
"She's the one... she's the one who killed Dad."
Both me and Yuyuko-san froze and Youmu has no idea.
"What?" I breathed deeply. "Sonia... killed Brendan?"
Nino nodded weakly, her voice cracking. "I saw it. Her hand... went through his heart. I'll never forget it."
The air in the room grew heavy, the tension palpable. I clenched my fists unconsciously, my mind is replaying Nino's words over and over. Sonia. The same woman who had attacked the mansion.
Yuyuko-san, ever the one to sense when grief threatened to overwhelm the room, coughed softly, breaking the silence. "We'll discuss the rest later," she said, her voice gentle but firm. "For now, we still have some time before classes begin. You two clearly have a lot to talk about."
She rose from her seat, motioning for Youmu to follow. "If you need me, Riku-kun, you know where to find me."
When they left, the door closed quietly behind them, leaving only me and Nino in the stillness of the office.
I turned to her, his expression softening. "Like Yuyuko-san said, there's a lot to catch up on."
Nino gave a small, hesitant smile, though her eyes still glistened faintly with unshed tears. "Yeah... there is."
------------
Hanasakigawa Girl's High School – Rooftop
12:15 P.M.
After an hour of catching up with Nino in Yuyuko-san's office, we finally left. She was led away by Yuyuko-san to complete her introduction as a new first-year student, while I returned to my classroom. Youmu had mentioned earlier that Nino's age fit the first-year level perfectly — a sensible placement. Most of the girls I knew were already in the second or third year, but I hoped she would find some companions her age quickly. She'd been through enough loneliness already.
When I entered my classroom, Rinko and the others were already there, their usual energy filling the room. My fiancée caught my eye, curiosity written all over her face. I promised I'd explain everything at lunch, and that seemed to satisfy her — at least for the moment.
Now, here we were — gathered on the rooftop under the bright noon sun, the city breeze brushing against our uniforms. Lunchboxes were spread out on benches and blankets, the sound of chatter filling the air. Still, something felt slightly off.
I scanned the group and frowned. "Aya-chan, did Remi come to school today?"
Aya-chan shook her head. "No, she didn't. And neither did Flan-chan or Sakuya-san."
That figured. I let out a sigh. "She probably skipped school for Patchy's sake."
Aya-chan blinked. "Patchy? Who's Patchy?"
Kaguya set down her drink carton and leaned back casually. "Patchouli Knowledge. She's one of our friends — a librarian, actually." Then she turned to me with a knowing look. "Riku, I'm guessing her body gave out again, right?"
"Yeah," I said, rubbing the back of my neck. "She overworked herself again. Patchy's always been fragile."
Kanon tilted her head curiously. "Um... was she weak since birth?"
Youmu, who was quietly sitting near the rail, replied before I could. "Patchouli has severe asthma. Exercise is out of the question for her."
"And sunlight," Kaguya added, folding her arms. "She avoids it almost completely. Unless Remilia drags her out for one of her tea parties."
I nodded. "To make it worse, she barely sleeps."
A soft wave of concern washed over the group. Sayo frowned. "That's unbelievably unhealthy. People need sunlight — it literally keeps us alive."
Arisa shook her head. "And barely sleeping? What's she even doing with her time?"
"She's a researcher," I explained, taking a sip of my drink. "Specializes in magic studies."
Rimi blinked in surprise. "Wait, so she's a youkai too?"
"She's human," I clarified. "Just... a very special one. Her magic mastery has kept her alive longer than normal. Here—" I took out my phone and showed them a photo of Patchy, taken during one of Remi's rare gatherings. She was sitting in her reading chair, long lavender hair cascading around her, half-asleep with a book open in her lap.
"Wow~" Hagumi grinned. "She looks cute in that pajama!"
Kaguya gave her a flat look. "Trust me, Hagumi, calling her 'cute' is the fastest way to get yourself vaporized. Last time I said that, she blasted me halfway across the mansion. She might look delicate, but she's one of the strongest magicians in existence."
Eve studied the photo quietly. "Her eyes look tired... like she hasn't slept in days."
Saaya cleared her throat softly. "Anyway, Riku-kun, when are we going to start eating?"
I smiled faintly. "Soon. There's someone I want you all to meet first."
Chisato raised a brow. "Is it another girl? Or rather—"
"It's not what you're thinking," I interrupted flatly, earning a few chuckles from the others.
Right on cue, a small voice came from the door. "Um... Riku... are you here?"
Everyone turned as the door creaked open. Standing there was Nino — her short green hair fluttering slightly from the rooftop breeze, her violet headband catching the sunlight. Her new Hanasakigawa uniform looked a little big on her, but it suited her innocence perfectly.
"Yo, Nino," I said, waving her over. "You came just in time."
Arisa's eyes lit up with curiosity. "Riku-san, who is she? She looks like the first-year transfer student everyone's been talking about."
"Hm." I nodded. "Everyone, meet Nino Reed. I met her years ago overseas."
Nino bowed politely, her smile soft but a little nervous. "My name is Nino Reed. Pleased to meet all of you."
Kasumi was the first to react, practically bouncing forward. "Nice to meet you too, Nino-chan!"
And right beside her, Kokoro appeared out of nowhere with a sparkling grin. "Look how adorable you are! Onii-chan, can I keep her?"
Before Nino could even respond, Kokoro had already wrapped her arms around the smaller girl, rubbing her cheek against Nino's like an overexcited cat. Nino froze in confusion while the rest of us tried not to laugh.
"No," I said instantly — at the same time as Misaki, who groaned from where she was sitting.
"NO!" we both said in unison.
Kokoro pouted dramatically. "Aw~"
Even so, she didn't let go, continuing to cuddle Nino like a plush toy.
Nino looked up at me helplessly. "Um... Riku... what's happening?"
"Don't worry about it," I reassured her, trying to hold back a smirk. "That's just Kokoro being Kokoro. If she's acting that way, it means she trusts you."
"She trusts me? Even though we just met?"
Kokoro nodded enthusiastically. "Onii-chan told me so much about you! He said you're a talented magician! How about we spar?"
That made everyone freeze — even me. I blinked at her, caught off guard. Of course Kokoro would challenge someone she just met to a duel, but the others looked even more stunned by what they'd just heard.
"Nino-san's... a magician?" Arisa asked.
"Talented one," I said. "But—" I turned to Kokoro. "You are not doing that. Nino may know magic, but she doesn't know danmaku. So no duels. You already have your match with Flan coming up, remember?"
"Unfortunately, yes," Nino said softly, folding her hands. "Sorry, I can't make your wish come true."
Kokoro deflated for a moment, but her energy quickly rebounded. "Then can I at least see what kind of magic you use?"
Nino hesitated and looked to me for approval. I gave her a small nod. She took a step back, closed her eyes, and raised her right hand. A faint glow flickered between her fingers — then a small flame appeared, hovering gently in her palm. The girls watched, mesmerized, as the fire began to take form. Slowly, the flickering light molded itself into the shape of a tiny cat made entirely of flame.
The little creature leapt off her hand, landing gracefully on the ground. It scampered around playfully, leaving faint trails of ember-light behind it. The group let out small gasps of admiration — even Kasumi was wide-eyed, her sandwich halfway to her mouth.
After a few moments, Nino smiled softly and snapped her fingers. The fire cat vanished in a puff of smoke.
"Looks like your control over fire's improved," I said with quiet pride. "Good work."
Nino's face brightened. "Thank you for the praise, master."
That word made a few eyebrows rise.
"Master?" Chisato repeated, looking at me suspiciously. "She calls you that?"
I shrugged, pretending not to notice Rinko's faint giggle. "I taught her magic for a while, back when I was in Europe. She started calling me that on her own. I didn't really stop her."
Kasumi leaned toward Arisa and whispered, "That's kind of cute, actually."
Arisa rolled her eyes. "You would say that."
I cleared my throat and sat down, opening my lunch. "Anyway. Let's eat."
Everyone followed suit, unpacking their food and settling into easy conversation. The rooftop filled with laughter and small talk, the kind of warmth that could only exist on quiet school days like this. I caught glimpses of Nino smiling shyly as each of the girls introduced themselves — Kasumi's boundless cheer, Chisato's calm politeness, Hagumi's energy, Kaguya's teasing charm. She looked at each of them like she was seeing something she'd lost for a long time: normalcy.
When she finally met Rinko, her eyes softened even more. She congratulated me — said she was glad I'd found someone as beautiful and kind as her. I could see genuine happiness in her expression.
Of course, she had no idea that Rinko wasn't the only one.
I leaned back, watching the group around me — my fiancée, my friends, the people who'd somehow found their way into this strange circle of magic, music, and chaos. And now, another piece from my past had joined us. Nino's laughter mixed into theirs like a melody rejoining an old song.
For a moment, I just let it be — the laughter, the wind, the warmth of sunlight on the rooftop tiles. It felt... peaceful. Something I didn't realize I'd missed.
Live House CiRCLE – Riku's Office
3:45 P.M.
Classes ended smoothly after lunch. Nino seemed to settle into the rhythm of school life faster than I expected, her quiet resolve masking whatever exhaustion lingered from her past. Before parting ways, I asked where she was staying. She mentioned the Yakumo villa in Tokyo — Yukari's property — and that she was living there with Ursula and the other surviving members of the Black Fang. The name alone carried history. I could only nod, knowing what it meant for her to have any kind of home again. When I asked what she planned for the evening, she said she'd be watching over Ursula, who hadn't been feeling well lately.
Now, several hours later, I was back in familiar territory — my office at Live House CiRCLE. The place was alive with sound and motion, guitars echoing faintly through the walls, the steady thump of a bass line shaking the air vents. It was one of those days where nearly everyone decided to practice here: MORE MORE JUMP, μ's, Rondo, and Kessoku Band. Each room had its own storm of rhythm and laughter. It made the whole building feel like it was breathing.
I sat at my desk with a cup of coffee gone cold, scrolling through unread emails on my laptop. Most were administrative — inquiries, bookings, a few from TI's committee. I might own CiRCLE, but I'd long since learned to let Marina handle the meetings. She enjoyed the logistics, and I preferred keeping my distance from endless corporate chatter.
Still, one message caught my eye.
"So the meeting will be held on the 29th..." I muttered to myself, tapping the screen. "I might be able to attend. Yeah, I can go there."
I clicked to the next email — a recent one, timestamped only minutes ago.
"Oh, this one's from Ceb," I murmured.
Before I could open it, the door swung open. Ichika and Shiho stepped in, both still in their Afterglow hoodies, a thin sheen of sweat on their foreheads from practice.
"Owner-san, are you busy?" Ichika asked, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.
"Just checking my mail," I said, leaning back in my chair. "What's up?"
Shiho answered flatly, though I caught the faintest twitch of amusement in her tone. "Someone named Keigo is here looking for you. He's with a girl named Saki."
That got my attention. "Those two, huh?" I said, a smile creeping in. "Sure, let them in. You two can go take a break — let Honami and Saki-chan handle the next set."
"Got it," they both said in sync, bowing slightly before leaving.
Moments later, Keigo and Saki stepped in, both wearing their Yoba Academy uniforms. They looked every bit the picture of youth — polished, restless, and trying very hard not to seem nervous.
"So," I said, setting my laptop aside, "what do you two lovebirds want with me? And Keigo, what are you doing here? Shouldn't you be with the Peakeys?"
Both flushed immediately. The reaction alone was worth it.
Keigo coughed, pretending to play it cool. "Well, yeah, but Shino said they don't need me for practice today. So... I've got free time."
Saki clasped her hands behind her back, smiling softly. "Photon Maiden's on break too. Our producer's still finalizing an event we might join."
I raised a brow. "So you're planning to go pro?"
Saki nodded slightly. "It's more of a test. She wants to see how far we can go on our own."
"Hmm..." I leaned back in my chair. "Then I wish you both the best of luck. But tell me—why are you here, exactly?"
The two exchanged a glance, one of those silent conversations only people who know each other too well can have. Then Keigo turned to me, serious now.
"Aniki," he began — the title he'd never stopped using since the day I took him under my wing, "I want you to do a collab with me at the Sunset Stage."
That made me blink. Of all the things I expected him to say, that wasn't it.
I studied his expression, weighing the intent behind those words. He wasn't joking. His eyes had that same spark they used to — the one that came from chasing something impossible.
"A collab, huh..." I finally said, exhaling slowly. "You do realize the Sunset Stage is three days from now? That gives us barely any time to prepare."
"I know," he said, unwavering. "But even if it's just once, I want to perform with you — side by side. Me on vocals, Saki as DJ. We can make it work."
I glanced at Saki. "You dragged her into this too?"
She smiled, a bit sheepish but proud. "More like volunteered. When Keigo-kun told me his idea, I wanted to help. I already have a track prepared — and lyrics too. I'd like you to hear it. See if it fits."
"You finished both already?" I asked, a little impressed. "Alright, let me hear it."
She passed me her music player, and I plugged in my headphones. As soon as I pressed play, a clean, pulsing rhythm filled my ears. The track started soft — layered synths, a hint of melancholy — then built into a bright, cinematic swell. It wasn't aggressive like most stage tracks; it moved.
I followed the beat with the lyrics she'd written. They weren't about victory or rivalry — It was something similar...similar to how I write my songs.
As the final note faded, I took off the headphones and smiled faintly. "It's good," I said honestly. "Completely different from the sound you had during the tiebreaker. This one has soul."
Keigo's eyes lit up. "So that means—?"
"Yeah," I said. "Let's do it."
Both of them froze for a second, as if processing the words. Then, almost simultaneously, they broke into grins and hugged each other out of pure relief. Realizing I was still sitting there, they pulled apart just as fast, red-faced.
I chuckled. "Relax. It's fine. It's good to see you two that solid, actually."
Clearing my throat, I leaned forward. "So, when exactly do you plan to perform?"
Keigo scratched the back of his head. "I was thinking we could be the opening act — right before Shino faces Happy Around."
"An opening act to hype the crowd, huh?" I leaned back, arms crossed. "You do realize what you're asking for. I'm a TI champion — the crowd's expectations will be through the roof. You'll have to match that energy."
Keigo met my gaze head-on. "I know. But I also know Shino and the others can rise above it. This isn't about outshining anyone. It's about pushing each other higher."
That... earned a small nod from me. He wasn't chasing attention; he was chasing growth.
I turned to Saki. "And you? Why take this risk?"
Her gaze didn't waver. "Because I want to see it," she said softly. "That color you have when you perform. The one everyone talks about. And maybe... I can find my own color too."
Her words lingered in the air longer than I expected.
The room went quiet except for the muffled pulse of bass from the rehearsal hall outside. I could hear the faint echo of a guitar solo from another band — a reminder of how alive this place was.
I looked between the two of them — two younger artists standing where I once stood, chasing the same kind of light I used to reach for.
Seeing the fire in Keigo and Saki's eyes, I couldn't help but give in. Their determination reminded me of how I used to be—restless, hungry to prove something. Maybe they deserved that chance too.
"I see," I said, letting out a quiet sigh that turned into a faint smirk. "Then you're more than welcome to join us. And you're lucky, Keigo. I've got no other plans for the rest of the month aside from training. So, let's start practice now."
His eyes widened. "Eh? Now?"
"Of course now. We've only got three days to prepare, and we'll need to coordinate with the organizers to add our part to the program. The sooner we start, the better."
Keigo scratched his cheek awkwardly. "Right... I kind of forgot about that. But what about the lyrics? You need—"
"No need," I interrupted. "I've already memorized them. We'll practice the vocals now and talk to the organizers tomorrow. Sound good?"
He nodded. "We can do that."
"Good. Wait for me at Studio 20. I just need to finish something first."
They both agreed and left the office, the sound of their footsteps fading down the hall. Once they were gone, I turned back to my laptop. Ceb's name stood out among the messages in my inbox.
"Ho~ so they're arriving tomorrow," I muttered. "Guess I'll have to tell Grandfather to prepare a few guest rooms."
I skimmed through the rest of my emails, half expecting the usual flood of business updates and promotional inquiries. Then something unfamiliar caught my eye—a message sealed with an insignia I hadn't seen before: a seven-story pagoda tower, stylized in gold. My hand stilled on the mouse. That emblem... it couldn't be.
To be sure, I took a picture and called my grandfather. The line connected after only a few seconds.
"You called me, Riku?" came his calm voice, seasoned by age yet still commanding respect.
"Yeah. I just got an email sealed with a seven-story tower emblem. I'll send you a picture—tell me if it's who I think it is."
I forwarded it immediately. The pause that followed wasn't long, but it carried weight. When Kyoya finally spoke again, his tone confirmed what I suspected.
"Yup. That's the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan, all right."
I leaned back in my chair, exhaling through my nose. The Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan—one of China's most powerful families, known for their wealth, influence, and unshakable integrity. They were also among the few major clans that had maintained a strong alliance with Japan, avoiding the politics that often poisoned inter-clan relations.
"But why would they contact me directly?" I asked. "Shouldn't that kind of letter go to you first?"
Kyoya hummed quietly. "Normally, yes. But if they sent it to you instead, it means they want something from you specifically. Whatever it is, tread carefully."
I nodded to myself. "Understood. I'll read it properly when I get home. Sorry for bothering you."
"You're never a bother, Riku," he said warmly. "I always have time for you. Now go on, you've got things to handle."
I smiled faintly. "Take care, Grandfather."
The call ended, leaving a familiar stillness in the room. I stared at the glowing screen for a moment, then opened the letter. The message inside was written in elegant Japanese, formal yet concise. They wanted to meet—tonight, at 8:30 Japan Standard Time.
"Persistent," I murmured, typing a short reply to confirm the meeting. I'd deal with that later. For now, there was work to be done.
I headed out of the office and down the hall, the hum of music growing louder as I approached the studio wing. When I opened the door to Studio 20, Keigo and Saki were already there, setting up cables and sound systems with a quiet focus.
"Looks like you two are all set," I said, stepping inside.
Keigo turned with a grin. "We wanted everything ready before you got here."
"Good," I said, rolling my shoulders as I approached the mic stand. "Let's not waste time, then. We'll do this in one take. Saki, I hope this won't be too much for you."
She shook her head, a confident gleam in her eyes. "It's fine. If I want to improve, I have to push myself."
I gave a small approving nod. "That's the spirit. By the way, what's the song called?"
As she adjusted her headphones behind the DJ table, she smiled. "ECHO."
My brow lifted. "You're using the music I gave Keigo?"
Saki laughed softly. "Well, Keigo-kun gave me the sheet music, and I reworked it into a DJ mix. He also wrote the lyrics."
"I see." I folded my arms, half-impressed, half-curious. "Before I forget, I'll need you two to handle Yoba tomorrow. I've got to fetch someone."
Keigo tilted his head. "It's fine, we can handle it. But who are you picking up?"
"My brother-in-arms, Ceb. He's coming with a few scouts."
Keigo's eyes widened. "Wait, pro scouts? They're coming here tomorrow?"
"Yup," I replied casually. "We talked a few weeks ago—they're arriving tomorrow morning. Ceb just confirmed through email. But let's not get sidetracked." I adjusted the mic and glanced toward Saki. "Let's get this started."
-----------
Later that night....
Nagae Estate - Riku's Room
8:30 P.M.
Riku's POV
Later that night, the air at the Nagae estate carried a calm weight—the kind that only comes after a long, satisfying day.
The rehearsal earlier had gone smoother than expected. In fact, it only took one take to nail it. The moment Saki realized they had pulled it off flawlessly, her expression froze in disbelief. Keigo, ever the opportunist, snapped a photo before she could protest. Her mix of embarrassment and awe was priceless, the kind of thing that would live rent-free in our group chat for months.
After the laughter died down, the two of them went straight to work, contacting the Sunset Stage organizers to discuss our surprise collaboration. We agreed to keep it quiet—neither Happy Around nor Peaky P-key needed to know until the day itself.
When Keigo suggested grabbing dinner afterward, I half-joked about being a third wheel, but they didn't seem to care. "You're family," Saki said simply. So I texted my fiancées and Rinko that I wouldn't be eating at home and joined them.
Dinner was light and full of small talk—Keigo teasing Saki about her serious "DJ face," me quietly observing how well they fit together. They were both driven, but their energies balanced each other out. Watching them was... grounding, in a way. Like seeing a future that wasn't defined by politics or legacy, just music and choice.
By the time I returned to the estate, the night sky had deepened into a velvet hue, and the lights of the garden lamps traced soft paths across the gravel. The moment I stepped inside, Rinko and Tina were waiting for me at the entrance.
Rinko's eyes carried that familiar curiosity. "How did it go?"
I told them everything—from the collab idea to how the rehearsal turned out. Rinko listened intently, fingers brushing a lock of her violet hair behind her ear. By the time I finished, she looked more intrigued than I expected.
"I want to come to Yoba," she said suddenly. "I want to see you perform again."
I blinked, then smiled. "If you can bring Roselia along, even better."
She gave a small nod, already lost in thought about scheduling, no doubt. Tina just laughed softly beside her, a knowing smile on her lips.
Now, sitting at my desk in my room, the clock read 8:28 P.M.—two minutes before the scheduled meeting with the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan. I could feel the shift in atmosphere even before my email notification chimed.
When it did, I exhaled quietly, opened the message, and clicked the link embedded within.
The video call loaded slowly, and when the feed finally stabilized, a familiar face appeared on the screen.
He sat on a sofa upholstered in silver and gold fabric, posture straight yet effortlessly composed. His attire was elegant—a white, fur-lined coat over tailored trousers, with accents of royal purple. Black hair, neatly combed, framed a calm face, and behind his glasses, his eyes carried both warmth and authority.
"Riku," he greeted with a smile that was both fond and deliberate. "We finally meet again. How have you been these past few years?"
My chest tightened slightly, though I kept my tone steady. "It's been a while indeed, Fengzhi-san. I've been well—trying to make the most of my time as a student, for now."
Ning Fengzhi. The current head of the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan.
To most, he was known as a man of refinement—cheerful, humble, widely respected. But beneath that charm was steel. When those he cared about were threatened, his kindness vanished, replaced by the sharp precision of a man who could command entire empires to move.
Our connection went back a long way. He and my mother had been close friends—so close, in fact, that there were once whispers of an engagement. But fate had other plans. She met my father, and what might've been turned into something else entirely. Still, Fengzhi remained part of our family's circle. When I was born, he was named my godfather.
"I see," Fengzhi said, his tone light but eyes knowing. "So you decided to complete your secondary education. It seems you're serious about taking your place as heir."
"I am," I replied. "But I still have a lot to do before that happens." I leaned slightly forward. "Anyway, let's skip the pleasantries. What's the reason for contacting me directly instead of my grandfather?"
His laughter was soft, genuine. "You haven't changed a bit—always straight to the point. Very well. The reason I sent you that message is to propose something important. I want to organize a formal meeting between the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan and the Celestial Families. I used a private line to reach you. Even this video call is routed through an encrypted channel."
"So I can't trace your current location," I noted.
"Exactly. My clan has no shortage of enemies," he said, the smile fading slightly. "If word got out that I contacted the Nagae, they would seize the chance to use it against me."
"They'd turn it into leverage," I murmured.
"Spot on," he said, his eyes glinting with faint amusement. "So, Riku—will you help me arrange this meeting?"
I rested an elbow on the desk, studying his face carefully. "Before I say yes, what's your endgame? You wouldn't go through this much trouble without a reason."
His lips curved upward. "A fair question. You've grown sharper, Riku. You're right, I do have a goal—but that will only be revealed once the meeting is secured."
There it was again—his ability to balance truth and secrecy so seamlessly that you couldn't tell where one ended and the other began. I could sense something beneath his words, a quiet urgency he wasn't willing to name. But there was no deceit, at least none directed at me.
I sighed softly. "Very well. I'll see what I can do. But you know how the process works—I'll need at least half of the Celestial Families to agree before anything can proceed. Once I have their approval, I'll send you the proposed date and venue."
Fengzhi's composure relaxed slightly, the corners of his mouth lifting in satisfaction. "That's all I could ask for. Thank you, Riku."
He paused, his tone shifting to something lighter. "By the way, in the event that this meeting happens, would it be acceptable for me to bring Rongrong along?"
My brows rose slightly at that. "Hm... sure, why not? It's been years since I last saw her."
His grin turned almost mischievous. "Fufufu~ I'm certain she'll be delighted to see you again." He adjusted his glasses. "Anyway, I'll be looking forward to hearing from you. Oh, and congratulations on your engagement."
I blinked. "Eh? How did you—"
Before I could even finish the question, the call abruptly ended, the screen fading to black.
For a moment, I just sat there, staring at the reflection of my own confused expression on the dark monitor. Then I leaned back in my chair and let out a long, weary sigh.
Of course he already knew.
Fengzhi-san was a man who always knew more than he let on. His reach extended farther than most world leaders, and if he wanted information, he got it. Still, the way he said it—so casually, so sure—left a faint chill in the air.
I rubbed my temples, letting my head rest against the back of the chair. Between the upcoming collab, the scouts' arrival tomorrow, and now a potential summit involving the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan, my calendar was quickly becoming chaos disguised as duty.
Somewhere outside, the cicadas began their late-night song, their rhythm blending with the soft hum of the estate's lights.
I looked toward the window where the moonlight stretched across the floor and muttered under my breath, "One thing at a time, Riku. Just one thing at a time."
Third POV
Riku leaned back in his chair as the call with Fengzhi-san came to an abrupt end, the older man hanging up before Riku could even ask how he found out about the engagement. The screen dimmed to black, leaving only his reflection staring back. He exhaled softly, rubbing the bridge of his nose.
A soft weight pressed against his lap. Fuyu had hopped up, her golden eyes peering at him with a curious tilt.
"Need something from me, girl?" he murmured.
"~Nyaa~"
He couldn't help but smile. "Don't worry about it. I just need to make some calls. But before that—want your hair brushed?"
The feline nudged against his chest in response, clearly approving. Riku stood, stretching briefly before retrieving the brush from the shelf. The gentle sound of bristles gliding through fur filled the quiet room. Fuyu purred in satisfaction, curling up comfortably as if the world outside the window no longer mattered.
The faint tension that lingered in his chest slowly eased. For a moment, it was just the steady rhythm of the brush, the warmth of the little creature in his lap, and the muted hum of the city beyond.
When he finished, Riku placed the brush down and picked up his phone once more. His eyes hardened slightly as he scrolled through his contacts. He pressed one name.
"Yukari-san, it's me," he said as the call connected.
Whatever came next, he knew it would pull him further into the storm.
Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan – Ning Private Home, China
Far from Japan, in one of the private homes belonging to the illustrious Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan, Ning Fengzhi sat alone in a richly furnished study. A faint smile rested on his face as he set his phone down, the glow of satisfaction flickering briefly in his eyes.
"Well, that worked out nicely," he murmured, steepling his fingers. "Now, I just need to wait."
A series of knocks interrupted his quiet moment.
Knock, knock, knock.
He rose and pressed a button on the intercom. "Yes?"
"The young miss wishes to see you, Master." a maid replied.
"Let her in."
Moments later, the door opened, and a soft presence filled the room. The girl who stepped in had the kind of grace that made the world seem a little slower around her—porcelain skin, light pink hair cascading like silk, and eyes that shimmered like amethyst under the sunlight. Ning Rongrong, his only daughter, the heiress to one of the most powerful clans in the world.
"What brings you here, Rongrong?" Fengzhi asked, though he already had a suspicion.
"Is your meeting with him finished, Papa?" she asked, her tone light but edged with curiosity.
"If you mean my meeting with young Nagae, yes," he replied. "I just finished. It went well—better than expected, actually. And if everything proceeds as planned, I'll need you to come with me next time. You did say you wanted to see him again, didn't you?"
Rongrong's cheeks flushed instantly. She turned her head, folding her arms in mock defiance. "I–It's not like I wanted to see him again or anything!"
Fengzhi chuckled, pushing his glasses up his nose. "Sure, sure. Deny it all you want."
He leaned back in his seat. "Anyway, is everything ready?"
"Grandpa Sword finished it an hour ago," she said, her tone softening. "But... Papa, are you sure you want to give that to Riku? True that it was my idea, but the thought of giving it to Riku..."
Fengzhi rose from the sofa, walking toward the large window overlooking the sprawling compound. His reflection stared back at him, half-hidden in the soft evening light.
"Riku needs every bit of help he can get," he said quietly. "Our intelligence network just confirmed that the radical faction has begun meddling with the Nagae branch family."
Rongrong's eyes widened. "That means—"
"Yes." Fengzhi's tone dropped into something heavier. "The situation between the two nations will only grow more dire. If the radicals truly side with the branch, then we must stand with the main family. There's no avoiding it."
The room fell into silence, the tension thick enough to feel. The air shifted as Fengzhi's phone chimed—a new message. He reached for it, reading the contents carefully. A faint smile tugged at his lips.
"Papa?" Rongrong asked, stepping closer.
"The date has been set," Fengzhi said slowly. "The meeting between the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Clan and the Celestial Families will be held on July 27th. Location—Hakugyokurou."
Her eyes widened again. "That soon?" she whispered. Then, despite herself, her lips curved upward. The thought of seeing Riku again sparked a quiet warmth in her chest she couldn't hide.
Fengzhi watched her expression shift—hope, nerves, longing. He sighed, half amused, half worried. Then his gaze dropped back to his phone, where Riku's message remained on screen:
I've spoken with the other family heads. The Nagae, Saigyouji, Hinanawi, Yakumo, Komeiji, Houraisan, Yagokoro, and Matara families will attend. As for the date and venue, we agreed to hold it at Hakugyokurou on July 27th.
Make sure the radicals don't catch wind of your departure, and be careful once you land in Japan. Things have been... strange here lately.
And coming from me—I can't wait to see you again in person.
—Riku
The clan head's eyes softened as he reread the final line.
"Japan..." he muttered under his breath. His reflection in the glass seemed older somehow. "The last time I set foot there was at Miku's funeral... Never thought I'd return, not for mourning—but for the sake of my country's future."
Outside, the evening light dimmed to amber, painting the compound in shades of gold and shadow. In that silence, father and daughter stood side by side, watching as dusk crept across the gardens. Both carried unspoken thoughts—his, heavy with politics and foresight; hers, light with the nervous anticipation of reunion.
For both of them, July 27th would mark the beginning of something far larger than they yet understood.
To be continued...
Spell Cards Used: 1
Water Sign: "Flying Fish Air Raid"
Spell Type: Offensive Spell Card
Target: AOE
Danmaku Type: Liquid Bullet
Element: Water
User: Nagae Riku