Imperial Palace – Dining Hall
11:40 A.M.
Third POV
The atmosphere of the Imperial Palace's dining hall was far lighter than the press chamber had been. The soft glow of chandeliers reflected against polished marble floors, and the faint scent of freshly cooked dishes drifted through the air. When Riku and the others entered, they were greeted by a sight that immediately surprised him.
"Rinko?" Riku blinked, realizing that not only Rinko but also Eli, Rei, Miyu, and his other fiancées were already inside. "Why are you and the girls here? I thought Youmu took you to rest with the others."
Rinko looked sheepish as she fidgeted with the hem of her dress. "Well... we wanted to help somehow. So, we offered to assist the chefs and Youmu-san with the preparations. They should be finishing up in a few minutes."
Eli stepped forward with her usual calm poise, though her eyes softened with concern. "We watched everything on the broadcast from the room we were taken to. Dear, is everything alright?"
Riku gave her a reassuring nod. "We're good so far. We just finished phase one—now we move on to phase two after lunch."
Miyu, with her usual teasing tone, chimed in casually, "Rinko-san was so tense the whole time. She fainted three times while watching it."
"M-Miyu-chan!" Rinko's face went crimson as she flailed her arms. "Don't tell him that!"
Her reaction drew light laughter from Eli and the others, easing the mood around the table. Even Riku couldn't help but smile.
Once the laughter died down, Riku turned toward Rongrong, his tone shifting slightly more serious. "Rongrong, how's the situation with Fengzhi-san back in the mainland?"
Rongrong sighed, pulling out her phone briefly before speaking. "I received a message from Papa earlier. It's... complicated. The moment you exposed the Celestial Families to the world, several Spirit Master factions started debating whether we should follow your lead and reveal ourselves too. The Three Major Clans and Spirit Hall are in favor of stepping out of the shadows, but some smaller factions are against it. It's dividing the community."
Riku rubbed his temples with a groan. "Great. One problem after another."
"Don't worry," Rongrong said, offering a reassuring smile. "With Spirit Hall supporting the Three Major Clans, the opposing factions won't dare make a move."
That made Riku pause. He glanced at her. "Still... what's Spirit Hall's angle in all this? After everything that's happened?"
Rongrong's expression softened. "It's true Spirit Hall used to want total domination over China. But things have changed. Ever since Master Xiaogang died protecting the Supreme Pontiff, she's been... distant. It's like she's lost her will to rule the way she once did." Her tone carried a faint sadness.
Riku stayed silent for a moment, then sighed. "Then I won't pry into it any further. But I can feel that there's going to be some problems in the long run."
Just then, his phone buzzed in his pocket. He glanced at the screen—and his eyebrows rose. Notifications flooded in from every corner of the Professional Band Circuit.
There were dozens of messages. Some came from his fellow pro musicians—old rivals, partners, and even critics—all offering their words of support. Messages of solidarity, encouragement, and respect filled the chat. But one message stood out above the rest.
"Wait... this can't be real."
The sender's name was unmistakable. Gabe Newell.
Riku opened the message and read it quietly.
"VALVE stands beside you, Riku. You've changed how the world sees competitive music. No matter what happens, you're one of us."
A quiet laugh escaped his lips. "Even Gabe, huh..."
That small gesture was enough to lift the weight off his shoulders. He slipped the phone back into his pocket, feeling a renewed sense of strength.
Before he could dwell on it further, a bell rang near the kitchen doors. The sound was followed by the creak of the double doors opening. Youmu entered gracefully, accompanied by a line of servers carrying platters and trays.
The scent that poured out from the kitchen was intoxicating—roasted meats, delicate sauces, and a symphony of aromas that immediately captured everyone's attention. Even the reporters who had followed the group to the dining hall couldn't hide their anticipation.
As each dish was placed on the long, elegantly set table, the sheer presentation alone left the guests speechless. Steam rose from the dishes like a painter's mist, the colors and textures blending together in perfect harmony.
And then, two familiar men entered the hall.
"Wait... is that—" Riku blinked again. "Joichiro-san? Gin-san?"
Standing at the entrance were none other than Yukihira Jōichirō and Dōjima Gin, both wearing their chef whites.
"You're the ones who prepared the food?" Riku asked, disbelief and delight mingling in his tone.
Joichiro grinned, his trademark easygoing smirk in place. "The old man called me while I was in Germany, searching for new ingredients. When he told me to cook for this event, how could I refuse?"
Gin adjusted his gloves, speaking with quiet pride. "As for me, it was only fitting. I'm here representing Totsuki Academy after all. Everything you see here was prepared by us and our sous chefs. Consider it our best work yet."
Riku chuckled softly. "Then this meal is going to be one for the history books." He leaned closer to Gin, lowering his voice so only their group could hear. "By the way, congratulations on your relationship with Yuyuko-san."
Gin immediately flushed red, while Joichiro's grin turned positively wolfish.
"Ho~ So Gin finally managed to score himself a lady, huh? And not just any woman—the Saigyouji head herself!" Joichiro teased, slapping Gin's shoulder. "So tell me, how's it feel knowing she's, well... a youkai?"
Gin shot him a sharp look but smiled faintly. "Honestly? I was surprised at first. But it doesn't change anything. Yuyuko appreciates my cooking more than anyone else ever has. As long as she's smiling at my food, that's all I'll ever need."
Youmu's eyes glistened with emotion. She stepped forward, holding Gin's hand gently. "Gin-san... I leave Yuyuko-sama to you."
Gin squeezed her hand back and smiled warmly. "You can count on me. But for now—" he gestured to the grand feast before them, "wipe those tears. We've got a banquet waiting."
Youmu sniffled and nodded, quickly wiping her tears away as laughter rippled softly through the room.
Moments later, the doors at the far end opened once again. His Majesty Emperor Naruhito entered, flanked by Yukari and Okina. The room immediately fell into respectful silence.
"I thank you all for your patience," His Majesty said, his calm presence commanding the room with ease. "You've all done splendidly this morning. Now, let's not keep our chefs waiting. It's time to eat."
Everyone straightened instinctively.
Then, as if rehearsed, the entire room—Celestial Families, palace staff, reporters, and even Joichiro and Gin—joined in unison:
"ITADAKIMASU!"
And with that single word, the tension that had clung to the morning vanished entirely.
Laughter filled the dining hall as plates clinked, conversations bloomed, and the rich aroma of expertly crafted dishes swirled through the air. Even after all the revelations, all the tension, the scene felt... human again.
Riku sat among them, watching his fiancées laugh together, Reimu quietly chatting with Aichi, and Yuyuko sneaking an extra serving when she thought no one noticed.
For the first time that day, he allowed himself to relax.
Outside, the world was already shifting—news networks scrambling, governments convening, and factions debating. But inside the Imperial Palace, for this brief moment, there was peace.
And Riku intended to savor every second of it.
Imperial Palace – Private Room
12:25 P.M.
Third POV
Lunch at the Imperial Palace had been one of those rare moments where the entire world seemed to exhale. No negotiations, no tensions—just people, human and otherwise, sitting down and sharing a meal together. Youkai, spirit masters, and humans filled the grand dining hall, their laughter mingling with the rich scent of spices and grilled delicacies.
Even the reporters—especially those who had flown in from abroad—were disarmed by the atmosphere. Each had been served a dish reminiscent of their homeland, a subtle yet deliberate gesture of diplomacy. Cameras and phones captured everything, but none missed the most memorable scene of the afternoon: Saigyouji Yuyuko devouring nearly half the food on the table with radiant joy. The collective disbelief and laughter that followed echoed across the hall.
Thankfully, Gin and Joichiro had anticipated such an outcome; extra dishes were waiting in the kitchen, ensuring the buffet survived Yuyuko's bottomless appetite. By the time lunch ended, spirits were high, and hearts lighter.
When the plates were cleared and the crowd began dispersing for the scheduled break, Riku decided to retreat for a brief rest before the next phase of the gathering resumed. Kyoya and Mafuyu had gone to confer with officials in a separate room, while Kuroka remained on security detail nearby. For now, Riku found himself in a quiet private room prepared by the Royal Family, surrounded by familiar faces—his fiancées, and Tina.
He leaned comfortably on a couch, a cup of chamomile tea steaming softly in his hands. Rinko and Eli sat on either side of him, their presence grounding and warm.
"So," Riku began with a small smirk, "what happened with you girls while I was dealing with the press and the council? Anything interesting?"
Rinko nodded shyly. "Well, we got along with the others inside. They were very nice to us... and, um, Youmu-san was really helpful keeping Suika-san away."
Riku chuckled, already knowing where that was going. "Let me guess—she tried to make you drink her sake?"
"She did," Rinko admitted, laughing a little.
"Yeah, that checks out. The last time I tried her sake, I was out cold for two weeks," Riku said, setting his cup down.
The girls looked horrified. "Two weeks?!" Eli exclaimed.
"Don't worry," Riku assured them, amused at their expressions. "These days, I stick to tea. Safer, calmer. Besides, alcohol just slows me down." He took another sip.
Eli chuckled softly. "Well, aside from Suika-san's... generosity, Satono-san and Mai-san were a big help. They gave me a few tips for new choreography ideas for Love Live and Worlds."
Riku smiled, clearly impressed. "Those two are veterans in the idol scene. Makes sense they'd be willing to share advice. Last I heard, they just wrapped up their South America tour."
Eli blinked in surprise. "Wait—Satono and Mai are pro idols?"
"Pro and dangerous," Riku replied with a grin. "Okina-sama doesn't pick ordinary attendants."
Eli smiled at that, then hesitated before continuing. "There's something else. While we were talking... Marisa offered to teach us magic."
That made Riku freeze mid-sip. He set his teacup down, eyes narrowing slightly in surprise. "She did what?"
Eli nodded earnestly. "She said we had potential. High magical affinity, she called it."
Miyu chimed in. "Marisa-san said we're close to awakening. But Rei-san's mana hasn't fully developed yet. Marisa-san mentioned our affinity might've grown because we're always near you, Riku-san."
Riku sighed through his nose, a small smile tugging at his lips. "She's not wrong. You girls absorbed the excess mana that is leaking out of me, so that's the reason why." He leaned back and looked around at the determined faces of his fiancées. "So... are you girls really fine with learning magic? It's not something to take lightly."
Rinko's eyes softened as she smiled. "Of course. You remember when we were kids? I used to pretend I was a great sorceress. I guess this is my chance to actually become one."
Miyu clasped her hands in front of her chest. "We agreed because we want to stand by your side—not just watch from afar."
Eli nodded, her voice calm but resolute. "When I saw you fighting Rongrong back at the Hakugyokurou, I realized how powerless I was. I don't want to be a damsel waiting to be saved. I want to fight beside you."
Riku's expression softened as he met Rongrong's gaze. She smiled faintly, pride flickering in her eyes.
"And you, Rei?" Riku asked.
Rei exhaled lightly, crossing her arms with a small smile. "Marisa said my magic is still too weak to awaken. So I'll wait for now. No rush."
Rongrong tilted her head, her tone teasing. "Then maybe instead of a magician, you could become a Spirit Master."
Riku's response was instant and firm. "No way."
Everyone blinked as his tone shifted—low, protective, almost sharp.
"Riku..." Rongrong began softly, realizing what he meant.
"You know better than anyone what that path costs," Riku said evenly, his gaze steady but gentle. "I won't let Rei carry that burden."
Rongrong looked down, her expression shadowed by guilt. "You're right... I forgot for a moment."
Silence filled the room for a few breaths before Riku broke it with a sigh. "Anyway, since you're all serious about learning, did Marisa mention what elements you're attuned to?"
Tina perked up, fiddling with her fingers. "She said Rinko-nee-san and Eli-nee-san can use ice magic. Miyu-nee-san can use wind, and Marisa felt that Rei-nee-san could learn lightning—like you. As for me... I can use earth magic."
Riku raised a brow. "Earth, huh? That suits you. Stable and sharp when it needs to be."
Tina blushed faintly at the praise.
"Did Marisa say anything else?" Riku asked.
Rinko nodded after thinking for a moment. "She said Alice-sensei will be helping her teach us."
That made Riku breathe easier. "Good. With Alice around, things won't get out of hand. Marisa's teaching style is..." He paused, smirking faintly. "...well, let's just say she likes explosions more than explanations."
The girls laughed quietly, tension easing once more. Then a knock came from the door.
"Riku-sama," a palace staff member said after bowing, "it's time. The second session of the gathering is about to resume."
Riku stood, brushing invisible dust from his uniform. "Alright." He turned to the girls, smiling warmly. "Wish me luck."
Before he could take a step, Tina darted forward and hugged him tightly. "You'll do great, onii-san."
Rinko followed, placing a gentle kiss on his lips. "We'll be watching."
Eli and Miyu each leaned in after, soft whispers of "be safe" against his ear. Even Rei, though shy, gave him a brief but meaningful kiss, while Rongrong lingered just a moment longer—her lips brushing his with quiet affection.
Riku chuckled softly, warmth rising to his cheeks. "I'll take that as all the good luck I need."
He gave one last glance at the women who'd chosen to stand by him—not as shadows, but equals—and then stepped toward the door. The sound of his boots echoed against the polished marble floor as he left the quiet of the room behind.
Outside, the palace halls were alive again with movement—guards resuming posts, journalists preparing their gear, and dignitaries returning to their seats. Beyond the gilded doors of the Grand Hall, the next phase of the summit waited.
Riku adjusted his coat and exhaled slowly. The weight of what came next pressed against his shoulders, but for once, it didn't feel heavy. The messages of support from his peers, the unity shown over lunch, and the unwavering faith of those closest to him had all woven together into something steady—something unbreakable.
As he stepped forward, one of the palace attendants bowed and opened the massive doors, revealing the light-filled gathering chamber beyond.
-----------
Imperial Palace – Gathering Hall
1:05 P.M.
The great hall filled once again with murmurs as the second phase of the gathering commenced. The air carried a mix of formality and anticipation; the earlier tension had softened after lunch, but curiosity still burned in every pair of eyes. Reporters who were at the palace, diplomats, and military observers who were watching from the television leaned forward as Emperor Naruhito returned to his seat, calm yet commanding.
"Now that we are all refreshed and rested," the Emperor began, his voice echoing across the marble chamber, "let us proceed with the next phase."
Riku stood slightly behind and to the right of the throne, with the representatives of the Celestial Families flanking him in quiet confidence. When the Emperor gestured for questions, dozens of hands immediately rose from the press section. Riku nodded toward a journalist standing near the middle.
"You there," Riku said, his tone composed but approachable.
The man stepped forward, adjusting his glasses nervously. "Thank you for the opportunity. Tom Miller, from the New York News. My question is—can everyone use magic the same way you do?"
The question landed like a spark in dry grass. Every camera shifted, every whisper died. The world was waiting for this answer.
Kaguya and Aichi exchanged knowing grins beside Riku; they'd wagered earlier that this would be the first question asked. Riku only sighed softly and adjusted his jacket before replying.
"Yes," he began evenly, "every living being on this planet possesses mana—the essence that fuels magic. The difference lies in whether it's awakened or dormant. Under the right conditions, anyone can awaken it as long as they're exposed to it."
Tom tilted his head. "You mentioned 'conditions.' What do you mean by exposure?"
Riku nodded. "Exposure refers to proximity to areas of high mana concentration—places naturally rich in spiritual or magical energy. Living near such locations can trigger your mana to awaken. For instance, in Japan, residents near the Moriya Shrine in Nagano, the Hakugyokurou in Kanto, or Eientei in Fukushima have higher chances of awakening due to the immense energy those sites hold.
"In other nations—China, Korea, India, and much of Europe and South America—mana flow remains strong. However, in North America, the ley lines are weak due to modernization and industrial interference. Still," he added with a small grin, "the Celestial Families are considering establishing a new ley line there to restore mana circulation."
That last line made the American journalist's eyes brighten; several others exchanged glances, sensing the global implications.
Tom's next question came quickly. "I've noticed most of the family heads are women. Does this imply women are naturally more gifted in magic?"
The question drew murmurs. Some male reporters shifted uncomfortably, while their female counterparts waited with barely concealed interest. Riku gave a short, amused exhale before answering.
"Well," he said with a faint smirk, "you're not entirely wrong. Women tend to absorb mana faster than men—it's a biological and spiritual difference. But before you assume that makes them inherently stronger, there's more to it."
He paused, eyes glinting with mischief. "Let me get a little nerdy for a second. Think of it like Pokémon. Some species level up quickly—they're the common ones. Others level up slowly—those tend to be the legendaries. Men, when it comes to magic, are in that latter category."
A ripple of laughter spread through the hall. The gamers watching from home, especially the men, suddenly sat upright, their hope rekindled.
"So yes," Riku concluded, "males might absorb mana slower, but when they do reach their potential, they're powerhouses. Their mana density and stability make them invaluable—especially in defensive or large-scale magic operations. They're the last line of defense, not because they're weaker, but because their endurance is unmatched."
The murmurs shifted tone—admiration replacing doubt. Even Tom seemed impressed. But before he could ask further, Yukari stepped forward, her fan snapping open with a soft flick.
"The boy speaks truth," she said smoothly. "And let me remind you—just because women have faster growth doesn't mean we should underestimate men. Their potential is... terrifying when honed properly." Her violet eyes narrowed with an amused smirk. "Take Riku, for instance. I fought him a few days ago—in an official match—and lost."
A wave of gasps swept through the crowd. Even the royal guards looked up in disbelief. Yukari Yakumo—the ancient boundary manipulator—defeated?
Tom, recovering first, raised his microphone. "Lady Yukari, forgive me, but what do you mean by an 'official match'?"
Yukari's smile widened. "Ah, you see... among us, using power for selfish or destructive purposes is forbidden. But power untested becomes dull. So we created an outlet—Danmaku Battles."
The name itself drew curious looks. Riku folded his arms, letting Yukari explain.
"Translated loosely, 'danmaku' means a barrage of bullets. These battles are fought primarily in the air, combining precision, endurance, and creativity. The objective isn't to kill, but to outlast and overwhelm your opponent with non-lethal magical projectiles and patterns. It's a contest of skill and focus."
Tom nodded slowly. "So... it's like magical aerial combat?"
Yukari chuckled. "Exactly. It's both art and warfare. And the Hakurei Shrine—" she gestured to Reimu "—ensures every battle remains non-lethal. That said, taking a direct hit still hurts. A lot."
The explanation had the press murmuring excitedly. Dozens of screens worldwide were already displaying clips of historic Danmaku duels. The concept of settling magical disputes through sport fascinated everyone.
Tom raised his hand again. "Is there a ranking system for these battles?"
"Of course," Yukari replied, almost proudly. "To keep things fair and to measure progress, there are five primary ranks: General, Premium, Ultra, Relic, and Epic. Everyone starts at General rank. The rest," she said with a knowing smirk, "must be earned."
Reimu stepped forward, arms crossed. "The progression is simple—but grueling. Ten consecutive wins promote you from General to Premium. Twenty-five from Premium to Ultra. Fifty straight victories from Ultra to Relic. Each time you rank up, your win streak resets to zero."
The press went silent, jaws slack. The scale of the challenge sank in slowly.
Reimu's voice carried easily in the hush. "Once you hit Relic, you'll need one hundred straight wins to reach Epic. Consistency defines your worth in Danmaku. You lose, you start again from scratch."
A few gasps turned into stunned laughter; even the Emperor looked faintly amused.
Tom, still trying to keep up, asked hesitantly, "Miss Reimu, isn't that... harsh?"
"Harsh?" Reimu raised an eyebrow. "It's survival training. We live in a world where power and discipline walk hand in hand. Danmaku isn't just fighting—it's a mirror of one's heart. If you can't control that, you're not ready to ascend."
Her words were blunt, but they struck something honest. The room went quiet for a moment as people digested it. Then Riku stepped forward again, hands clasped behind his back.
"And there's one final step," he said. "When a participant reaches the hundred-win streak at Relic rank, they earn the right to challenge a Celestial Family head in an official match. The rule is simple—survive for thirty minutes. If they manage that, they are recognized as an Epic Rank magician."
The silence that followed was almost reverent.
"Once you reach Epic Rank," Riku continued, "you don't get to rest either. To maintain your standing, you must defeat another Epic Rank magician three times a year. Lose more than twice, and you're demoted back to Relic. Then, you start again from zero."
Several reporters paled visibly. The level of discipline, the absolute refusal to allow complacency—it was both terrifying and inspiring.
Tom, ever persistent, cleared his throat. "Is there any shortcut to ranking up faster?"
Riku gave a short laugh. "There is—but it's one of the hardest paths you can take. If you want to skip ahead, you can challenge ten opponents ranked higher than you. Win against all ten, and you'll promote instantly. But once you begin that path, there's no retreat. Lose even once, and you're barred from participating in any Danmaku battle for three months."
Gasps rippled through the room. Even Yukari's smile turned slightly approving at Riku's clarity.
"That rule," she added, "was made to separate the dreamers from the truly determined."
Riku nodded. "Danmaku isn't just a sport—it's a culture of resolve. Every duel tells a story. Every victory is a mark of perseverance. That's why the system stays as it is."
Tom looked thoughtful, lowering his mic slightly. "It sounds like... your entire society is built on discipline through balance. Competition without bloodshed."
"That's the goal," Reimu said, her tone softening. "Our power exists to protect, not dominate. Danmaku is how we remind ourselves of that."
The Emperor smiled faintly, satisfied by the exchange. "You see now," he said, addressing the press, "the Celestial Families have established an order not based on control, but responsibility. Their ways are strict because the power they hold demands it."
A few of the reporters nodded quietly. The atmosphere had changed—from fearful awe to genuine respect.
Riku stepped forward once more, his voice steady but warm. "The system we built is open to all who wish to learn and fight with honor. Magic is not privilege—it's potential. Whether human, youkai, or spirit, it belongs to everyone brave enough to seek it."
For a brief moment, silence reigned again. The cameras flashed, immortalizing the sight of Riku standing beneath the golden imperial crest, light streaming behind him through the glass dome.
Then the press erupted—not in panic or chaos, but in applause.
Even Yukari's smirk softened into a small, knowing smile. Reimu crossed her arms, muttering under her breath, "Show-off."
But deep down, they all knew—this wasn't mere politics. It was history being written.
The emperor's expression shifted from composed satisfaction to solemn resolve as he surveyed the room. The air seemed to tighten around him—everyone could feel that the next topic would not be meant for public ears.
"Now that everything is settled," Emperor Naruhito began, his voice carrying the quiet authority of command, "I would like to ask the media to leave for the meantime. The next phase of this gathering requires absolute privacy. But do not leave the palace just yet—there will be more to follow."
A ripple of disappointment ran through the crowd of reporters, but none dared protest. They had already captured enough to rewrite history—the truth of the Celestial Families, the revelation of Sakuradite, and the existence of magic itself. That alone would dominate every front page across the globe.
One by one, the reporters bowed and exited the grand hall. The doors shut with a resounding thud, and the palace grew still.
As silence took hold, Yukari raised her fan and murmured an incantation under her breath. A faint shimmer spread through the chamber as a soundproof barrier enclosed the space—no words would leak beyond these walls.
The emperor turned toward Kyoya. "Now that they're gone," Naruhito said, his tone lowering into something more personal, "let us proceed to the matters at hand. Kyoya-dono, months ago you mentioned there was an important issue to discuss."
Kyoya nodded, his face unreadable. He stepped forward and gently took Mafuyu's hand.
"Yes, Your Majesty," he said solemnly. "This concerns my family. The young woman beside me is Mafuyu—my illegitimate granddaughter, and the biological daughter of my late daughter, Miku."
Gasps echoed softly through the ranks of the Celestial Families. Kyoya and Mafuyu bowed deeply before the emperor.
"Greetings, Your Majesty. I am—" Mafuyu began, but Naruhito raised a hand.
"Stop." His tone was not harsh, only deliberate. "I would like to hear your introduction in your true form. Show me who you really are, young lady."
Mafuyu hesitated, her eyes darting toward Riku. He met her gaze and gave a small nod. That was all she needed.
Her posture straightened, her features shifting subtly as the polite mask fell away. The warmth drained from her expression, replaced by an unsettling emptiness. Her once-bright eyes dimmed into a void of numbness.
"Greetings, Your Majesty," she said in a low, monotone voice. "My name is Nagae Mafuyu—formerly Asahina Mafuyu."
The air in the hall grew heavy. Reimu, Toyohime, Yorihime, Kasen, and Byakuren exchanged uneasy looks—each sensing the depth of damage hidden behind her vacant tone.
Naruhito's eyes narrowed, not in anger but sorrow. "Kyoya-dono," he said quietly, "according to the reports, this girl endured tremendous pressure all her life. Are those reports true?"
Kyoya's shoulders sagged. "Unfortunately, yes, Your Majesty. Everything you've read is true. The expectations placed on her were inhuman. She had no say in her own life. Over time, her senses dulled to almost nothing."
He glanced toward Mafuyu with quiet regret. "But with the help of her aide, Nazuna, and under Riku's care, she has begun to regain herself—slowly."
The emperor listened in silence, his gaze steady on Mafuyu. "Tell me, young lady," he said softly. "How was your life before meeting the Nagae?"
Mafuyu did not hesitate. She spoke plainly, as if reciting a stranger's story. She told of her childhood dream of becoming a nurse—how that dream was stripped away when her parents, particularly her mother forced her to study medicine to uphold the family's honor. She spoke of endless studying, constant comparison, and the crushing weight of expectation that left her hollow.
When Kasen gently asked what her favorite pastime was, Mafuyu paused. "...I don't know."
Yorihime followed, asking about her favorite food. "...I don't know."
Reimu, softer still, asked what kind of music she liked. The same answer. "...I don't know."
A painful silence filled the hall. Even the most battle-hardened among the Celestial Families lowered their eyes. It was a glimpse into a life without freedom, without joy.
Emperor Naruhito exhaled slowly and turned back to Kyoya. "How did you meet her?"
Kyoya clasped his hands behind his back. "It was in late April. I received a report of a murder case in a residential district. When we arrived, we discovered the Asahina family had been attacked. The parents were both gunned down—her father died shielding Mafuyu."
The room went utterly quiet.
"When my men arrived," Kyoya continued, "they found Mafuyu unconscious, barely breathing. The perpetrators assumed she was dead. We brought her to the Yagokoro General Hospital for treatment."
Eirin stepped forward, her calm voice cutting through the tension. "I can confirm that account. When I analyzed her blood, I discovered traces of youkai lineage—a genetic marker unmistakably tied to the Nagae line. She is, beyond doubt, one of yours."
"I see," the emperor murmured. His tone shifted to quiet admiration as he looked toward Mafuyu. "Then it was you who opened the Nagae gate during the revelation."
Mafuyu nodded. "Yes, Your Majesty. Nii-san told me that if I wanted to be accepted, I had to show my resolve—to prove that I am also a Nagae." Her voice carried no emotion, but her words still resonated with quiet strength.
Naruhito inclined his head. "A brave act." Then his gaze turned back to Kyoya. "But, Kyoya-dono... I believe there was another matter, wasn't there?"
Kyoya sighed heavily. "Yes. Unfortunately, there is... another illegitimate grandchild."
The room went still again.
"When Richard—my son-in-law—discovered Miku's affair, things became volatile," Kyoya explained with visible discomfort. "My wife, Honoka, intervened. To keep the peace, she allowed Richard the same liberty—to take one affair of his own."
Murmurs rippled through the Celestial Families. Aichi muttered under his breath to Riku, "We're lucky the press weren't here."
Kaguya followed with a whisper, "If they were, the Nagae's reputation would've been torn to shreds."
The emperor raised an eyebrow. "Do you know who this other child is?"
Kyoya shook his head. "No. Since Richard married into the family, his illegitimate child bears no youkai blood. They may have inherited his affinity with ice, but without youkai lineage, tracing them is nearly impossible."
Riku finally stepped forward, his voice steady. "There's a way, Grandfather. Eirin-san can help. If I provide a blood sample, she can cross-reference it with the national medical database. Since I share Father's blood, the search will narrow to those with a partial genetic match. It's our best chance."
Kyoya blinked, surprised by his grandson's foresight. "You've already thought this through."
Riku gave a small nod. "It's time we stop letting these loose ends fester."
The emperor straightened, his decision clear. "Then I will make it official." He rose to his feet, the weight of his authority pressing through the air. "By my sovereign decree, I hereby recognize Mafuyu as a legitimate member of the Nagae Family—along with the yet-unidentified second child, whose name will be recorded once discovered."
The words echoed through the chamber. Mafuyu blinked in disbelief, then slowly bowed, tears forming in her dull eyes. For the first time in years, emotion cracked through her numb expression.
Kyoya approached and gently placed a hand on her head. "Welcome to the family, Mafuyu," he said softly.
Her lips trembled into a faint smile. "Thank you... Grandfather."
The moment carried a rare warmth. Even the stoic among them felt it. The emperor allowed himself a small nod of approval.
"Well then," he began, "if that is all, then I declare this gathering—"
A thunderous voice cut through the hall.
"HOLD IT RIGHT THERE!"
The doors slammed open, echoing like a gunshot. Everyone turned as an elderly man strode in with defiant confidence. He appeared to be in his late sixties, his long dark-violet hair tied neatly behind him, sharp crimson eyes burning with pride. His presence alone made the air feel heavier.
Riku's jaw tightened. He didn't need to be told who this was.
Nagae Kouya—the head of the Nagae Branch Family.
Riku groaned under his breath, muttering just loud enough for Albion to hear, "Right. I forgot about that bastard."
[You don't sound too fond of him, partner,] Albion's voice echoed dryly in his mind.
"You have no idea," Riku muttered.
Yukari's fan snapped open with a sharp snap. "Kouya," she said, her tone slicing like a blade, "why do you dare interrupt His Majesty's words?"
Kouya didn't even glance her way. "I have nothing to say to you, Yakumo," he spat coldly. "My business is with the throne—and with that boy." His finger pointed directly at Riku.
"I am here," he declared, voice booming through the hall, "to make my plea to remove Nagae Riku as the next head of the Nagae Family!"
A collective gasp spread through the room. The emperor's expression froze in quiet disapproval, while several family heads exchanged wary looks.
Riku closed his eyes and exhaled through his nose. "...Oh boy. Here we go."
[Stay calm, partner,] Albion said firmly through their mental link. [Focus and we'll go through this.]
"Yeah," Riku murmured back under his breath, "but this time, I'm not holding back."
He straightened his jacket and stepped forward, his eyes sharp and calm—the same quiet confidence that once silenced gods and kings alike.
If Kouya wanted a confrontation, he would get one. But Riku was no longer the naive successor the branch family thought they could manipulate.
This time, he would end it.
Not just for himself—but for Mafuyu, for Rinko, and for everyone who carried the Nagae name with pride rather than greed.
Everything from this moment on would determine the family's future.
The emperor's hand lingered midair, unsure whether to intervene yet. The court was still, everyone waiting for what would happen next.
As the tension thickened, Riku's aura flickered faintly, a silent surge of power barely restrained beneath his calm expression.
The battle lines were drawn—not with swords or spells, but with legacy and conviction.
And when it was over, one truth would remain unshakable.
The Nagae heir would rise—or the branch family would fall.
To be continued...