May 20, 2021 — Thursday — 9:00 A.M.
Hovet Arena — OG's Autograph Stand
3rd POV
The morning crowd outside Hovet Arena buzzed with anticipation. Fans lined up with banners, posters, and lightsticks, their energy already crackling through the air. Inside, the members of OG were setting up their autograph table alongside Tundra and Team Spirit. Despite the bright lights and lively chatter, Riku looked like he hadn't quite escaped his dreams yet.
Miposhka glanced at him mid-yawn. "Hey, Iku, you good? Didn't sleep well?"
Riku scratched the back of his head, his expression caught somewhere between amusement and fatigue. "Let's just say... a lot of things happened last night."
Nine leaned back in his chair. "Which is?"
Riku exhaled, eyes half-lidded. "Well..."
Flashback — Inside Riku's Mindscape (Last Night)
After a long moment, Tenshi let go of Kokoro and pulled back and looked over the gathered group with a warm, confident smile that somehow carried a hint of mischief.
"Now then! I know you've got questions that need answers," she said, striking a proud pose. "Lay 'em on me!"
Before anyone could respond, a smack echoed across the field.
Riku had bonked her square on the head.
The girls collectively flinched.
"OW! What the hell was that for!?" Tenshi rubbed her head furiously.
"Be serious for once, will you?" Riku replied flatly, his expression unreadable.
Tenshi pouted. "Alright, alright. Geez, can't take a joke today, huh?" She crossed her arms, still sulking. "Fine. Ask away."
Misaki hesitated for a moment before stepping forward. "Then... Tenshi-san, what exactly is your relationship with Riku-san?"
Tenshi's expression shifted into something oddly smug. "Hmm... to put it simply, Riku's my babysitter."
"...Babysitter?" The word rippled through the group like a collective question mark. All eyes turned to Riku.
He sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. "In the old days, the Nagae family served the Hinanawi as one of their subordinate Celestial houses. It was more tradition than obligation, but—" His tone flattened. "—because Tenshi here was incredibly arrogant back then, my job turned into less of a retainer's duty and more of... well, keeping her from blowing up the mountain."
"HEY!" Tenshi barked, hands on her hips.
Sayo raised a brow. "What do you mean by that?"
Riku crossed his arms, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Let's put it this way—Tenshi once took charge of watching over Kokoro when she was four."
Kokoro blinked, tilting her head. "Oh yeah... that day..."
Misaki's brow furrowed. "What exactly happened?"
Riku hesitated, glancing briefly at Tenshi, whose awkward smile wasn't helping her case. "She decided to... toss Kokoro in the air."
"That doesn't sound too bad," Misaki said carefully.
Riku's voice dropped a notch. "Three hundred feet."
The silence that followed was so heavy, even the wind seemed to stop.
Then came the explosion.
"SHE DID WHAT!?"
The outburst was unanimous from everyone who wasn't from Gensokyo.
Even the normally calm Tomoe's expression twisted into outrage. She stormed forward, grabbing Tenshi by the collar with both hands.
"ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR GODDAMN MIND!?"
Sayo joined in, her voice sharp enough to cut air. "WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT TO TSURUMAKI-SAN!?"
"Hey, hey!" Tenshi flailed her arms helplessly. "How was I supposed to know humans couldn't handle a little altitude! Besides, she didn't even get hurt!"
"'A little altitude?!'" Tomoe repeated, incredulous. "You tossed a child into orbit!"
"Yeah, Tenshi," Sayo added, still fuming. "Do you even hear yourself!?"
Riku stepped between them before the situation got any worse. "That's enough, Sayo-san, Tomoe-san." His tone was calm, but there was an undercurrent of authority that made both women hesitate. "It's true she did it—but her father gave her hell for it afterward."
The two older girls exchanged looks, their anger slowly cooling, though the disbelief lingered in their eyes.
Kanon, still wide-eyed, turned to Kokoro. "Were you okay back then, Kokoro-chan?"
Kokoro smiled cheerfully, as if recalling a fond memory. "Don't worry! Onii-chan caught me in time and beat up onee-chan really hard after we landed!"
The others sweatdropped. Even Riku looked away, muttering something about his "younger self being too hot-headed."
Tenshi huffed, crossing her arms. "You didn't have to hit me that hard back then either, you know."
"You nearly turned my little sister into a meteor," Riku shot back, his tone as dry as sandpaper. "I was being generous."
Tenshi puffed out her cheeks. "You're still as boring as ever."
"Still alive, aren't you?" he countered without looking at her.
Their back-and-forth felt natural—like a thread pulled from years of shared history. The girls exchanged looks, half amused, half bewildered. This wasn't the stoic, composed Riku they knew. Around Tenshi, he loosened up, even if his patience wore thin fast.
Tenshi folded her arms, her earlier playfulness giving way to something quieter. "Now... any more questions?" Her tone dipped—less teasing, more subdued.
Saaya was the first to speak, her curiosity tempered by politeness. "Yuyuko-san told us that Riku-kun is a youkai. If it isn't rude to ask, Tenshi-san... are you a youkai too?"
Tenshi blinked, then let out a scoff. "Hah? A youkai? Don't compare a Celestial like me to a mere youkai."
That remark hit a nerve. Both Riku and Satori twitched—Riku's brows tightening, Satori's third eye narrowing slightly.
Eve, who'd been quiet until now, tilted her head. "What's a Celestial?"
Yuyuko answered before Tenshi could. Her voice was soft but carried the calm authority of one who had seen centuries. "Celestials are former humans who became immortal and ascended to heaven—or achieved enlightenment after death. They live without aging or suffering, though some... forget humility along the way."
The faintest glance toward Tenshi earned her an indignant huff.
Arisa, intrigued, leaned forward. "So... does Tenshi-san have an ability like you guys?"
Riku nodded, his voice steady. "Tenshi can manipulate the Earth itself. Landslides, earthquakes, tectonic pressure—she can control them all. But she prefers using keystones to channel that power."
The air shifted. The girls froze at the thought—someone who could call an earthquake into existence at will? Their earlier impression of the blue-haired girl as a cheeky older sister was quickly replaced by unease.
Yuyuko sighed. "Don't worry. Her power's so destructive that the Celestial Families agreed long ago she should never use it unless absolutely necessary."
Tenshi slammed her hand against her forehead in frustration. "WHICH SUCKS! I CAN'T EVEN JOIN A NORMAL DANMAKU BATTLE! THEY MAKE ME GET SUPERVISED BY THREE FAMILY HEADS!"
Her voice echoed through the mindscape like thunder.
Satori exhaled sharply. "A decision we still stand by. Do you have any idea how much collateral damage you caused last time? We were required to file a report to the government."
Tenshi looked scandalized. "That was one mountain!"
"Two," Riku corrected dryly. "And half a forest."
The Celestial's shoulders slumped as she mumbled something about "ungrateful bureaucrats."
Lisa leaned toward Riku. "So... she really likes fighting that much?"
Riku gave a humorless chuckle. "You have no idea. She once challenged Yuyuko-san, Yukari-san, and Eirin-san—in a row. Lost every time, but didn't stop. Then she managed to piss off Reimu by accidentally demolishing her shrine." He paused. "And before you ask why—she did it because she felt like it."
The entire group went pale.
Tenshi crossed her arms defiantly. "What? I was bored!"
Tomoe muttered, "You're lucky boredom doesn't count as a felony."
Even Yuyuko covered her mouth, trying not to laugh.
Yukina tilted her head, her voice calm but cutting. "Despite all of that, you still stayed by her side, Riku-san."
Riku didn't flinch. "Someone had to. Aside from her father, I'm the only one who can stop her when she loses control. And honestly... she's one of my closest friends. Beneath that attitude, no one matches her loyalty to her family."
Tenshi's head turned slightly at that, though she said nothing. Her smirk had faded, replaced by something quieter.
Riku clapped his hands lightly. "Any other questions?"
For a moment, the girls hesitated—too intimidated to speak. Then Rei raised her hand.
"Yes, Rei-san?" Riku asked.
Rei's expression was calm, though her eyes glimmered with interest. "It's about the song Riku performed at the Future World Fes. Is it true that you wrote it, Tenshi-san?"
Tenshi blinked, then smiled—genuine, for once. "Yeah. I composed it. Riku helped me shape the melodies, so it's basically a collaboration. Normally, he wouldn't be allowed to perform my songs without my father's consent. But..." she chuckled softly, "I stated in my will that Riku—and anyone he deems worthy—can use them freely."
Her gaze drifted toward him, then back to the others. "I see he still calls some of you by -san. Guess it'll take a while before he really trusts you."
Maya caught onto that. "Now that you mention it, Riku-san calls Shirokane-san, Mitake-san, Tsurumaki-san, Kaoru-san, and Chisato-san without honorifics. What's that about?"
Before Riku could speak, Tenshi answered. "He drops the honorific only when he truly trusts someone."
Sayo frowned slightly. "So that means Riku-san doesn't trust us yet?"
Tenshi shook her head, smiling faintly. "Not quite. Think of it this way—earning Riku's trust is like putting your life in someone else's hands. The ones he speaks to casually—Rinko, Ran, Kokoro, Kaoru, Chisato, Chu²—they've stood with him through chaos and risk. For others, like Yuyuko and a few elders, he keeps the honorifics as a form of respect."
There was a thoughtful silence after that. It wasn't judgmental—just the weight of understanding what that kind of trust meant to him.
Hina broke it with a lighter tone. "So... what made you start writing songs, Tenshi-chan?"
Tenshi blinked, then grinned. "Oh, I like the sound of that. Tenshi-chan."
She brushed a strand of blue hair from her face. "Well, after they banned me from going all-out in battles, I needed something to keep me from dying of boredom. So, I decided to make music. I wrote lyrics, Riku helped with compositions, and I taught him how to play guitar. We planned to start a band someday—me on vocals, him on lead."
A pause followed. Her smile wavered. "That was my dream. To play together... and go big."
Yukina spoke softly, almost like she already knew the answer. "But Riku-san got there before you did, didn't he?"
Tenshi didn't answer right away. Instead, she turned her back to them, gazing up at the pale-blue sky of the mindscape. The clouds drifted lazily, indifferent to the weight in her voice.
"Yeah," she said finally. "He made it before I did." She smiled faintly, but her tone softened. "And I wasn't mad. I was proud of him. Even after he went pro, he still came home to jam with us. No cameras, no audience—just us. Until that day."
The words lingered like static before a storm. Everyone understood what she meant.
The silence stretched until Satori stepped forward, her eyes narrowing. "Tenshi," she began carefully, "I'm asking this not as the Matriarch of the Komeiji, but as a detective. What happened that day? Who was the one who took your life?"
Yuyuko's expression tensed. "Satori... are you sure this is the right place to ask that?" She looked at the other girls, most of whom had gone pale. "You know what that question leads to."
"I do," Satori said, her tone quiet but firm. "But it's a truth that shouldn't stay buried."
Riku's expression darkened. "I'll take the girls to the palace while you handle this."
Tenshi looked at him, reading something unspoken in his eyes. Her usual bravado softened into a sad smile. "You don't have to, Riku."
"I do," he replied, already turning away. "They don't need to hear what's coming."
He motioned for the band girls to follow. Youmu and Flandre stepped in, flanking the group protectively as they walked toward the floating Dragon Palace shimmering in the distance.
Once they were gone, only four remained—Yuyuko, Satori, Tenshi, and Remilia. The air around them shifted, the playful light of the mindscape dimming into a dusk-like calm.
The atmosphere inside the grand hall was heavy, the only sounds being the faint hum of the palace's ethereal energy and the soft ripple of the water flowing beneath the translucent floor. The tension that lingered from the earlier revelations had yet to dissipate. Tenshi stood near the great archway, arms crossed, her expression uncharacteristically solemn. Yuyuko, Remilia, and Satori remained seated at the long table, their gazes fixed on the Celestial who had just shaken the foundations of what they thought they knew.
Remilia was the first to break the silence. Her crimson eyes narrowed slightly as her wings twitched. "Now that they're gone," she said in her usual composed, aristocratic tone, "let's continue. You mentioned a road trip."
Tenshi nodded slowly, her gaze turning distant. "Right. What happened was that I took Riku on a road trip to cheer him up. It had been a week after his parents' deaths, and I... I needed to do something. He had locked himself in grief, barely speaking, barely eating. I thought maybe... a change of scenery would help."
Her tone softened as she spoke, her usual pride replaced by something more human—remorse. The three women listened in silence, knowing the pain behind those words ran deep.
"There was progress," Tenshi continued, "for a while, at least. Riku started to talk again, even smiled once or twice. But then..." Her expression darkened. "We were ambushed."
Satori leaned forward slightly, her third eye glowing faintly as she spoke. "Who ambushed you?"
"I don't know," Tenshi admitted, shaking her head. "They were wearing black cloaks and white masks. We couldn't see their faces, not even sense their energy properly. They were suppressing it somehow."
Remilia's eyes sharpened. "And you fought them? In public?"
"Yes," Tenshi answered firmly. "Riku and I did our best to fend them off without using danmaku or our divine techniques. We couldn't risk exposing ourselves in front of humans. It was... a mess."
She let out a short breath and rubbed the back of her neck. "We managed to take down several of them, but even with my strength—ten times greater than an average person—I have limits. We were both exhausted, our bodies barely holding together."
Her voice grew faint. "We thought it was over... but then I saw it. Someone had taken aim at Riku from behind. I didn't even think. I shoved him away."
Remilia's tone softened, though her words remained sharp. "And you took the hit."
Tenshi gave a small, bitter smile. "Yeah. And it wasn't just a normal shot... it was a danmaku. A laser type, to be exact."
That word—danmaku—sent a shock through the chamber. Yuyuko's playful demeanor vanished instantly, her expression hardening. Satori's eyes narrowed, and even Remilia's calm exterior cracked for a moment.
Only a few beings in existence could manipulate danmaku outside of Gensokyo's boundaries. That it had been used to kill a Celestial was no small matter.
Satori was the first to speak again. "Did you see who made the shot?"
"I did." Tenshi's voice dropped to a near whisper. "It was only a quick glance, but... the only thing I remember were their eyes." She raised her hand and clenched it tightly. "Gold, glowing eyes. Cold and unfeeling."
Remilia and Yuyuko exchanged glances. It was Yuyuko who broke the silence, her voice unusually somber. "The same kind of eyes that were reported during Shinomiya Oko's death... So the one responsible..."
She looked down, her tone low and certain. "It's connected to the Black Fang."
Tenshi shook her head firmly. "No. It wasn't them."
All three looked at her in surprise.
"The Fang aren't involved in this," she continued. "If they were, the attackers Riku and I fought would've had the Fang's mark—the insignia burned into their necks. We checked. None of them had it."
Remilia crossed her arms, her tone analytical yet grim. "Then this just got a lot more complicated, very fast. If it isn't the Fang... who else could it be?"
Satori leaned back slightly, her expression thoughtful. "It's possible a third faction has made its move. Perhaps a group operating from the shadows, using the Fang as a diversion. Whatever their reason, their aim was Riku—and that alone makes them dangerous."
Tenshi closed her eyes for a moment. "Exactly. Which is why I needed to tell you all this. I'm not here to stir trouble. I want answers too."
Yuyuko smiled faintly but her tone was soft. "You've done the right thing, Tenshi. We'll relay this to the other heads. But... I'm curious. How are you even here?"
That question hung heavily in the air.
Tenshi exhaled, placing a hand over her chest. "Before I died in Riku's arms, I managed to separate a fragment of my soul and seal it within the Dragon Palace. It was... instinct, really. A desperate attempt. The fragment was small, but it was enough. It took years to stabilize, to reform a body strong enough to sustain me again."
Remilia frowned, her tone cautious. "That kind of soul magic... it's extremely unstable. I've read about it from Patchy's archives. One wrong step and your soul could've scattered permanently. How did you even manage that?"
Tenshi chuckled softly, a bit of her old confidence returning. "Luck, mostly. And... curiosity. I borrowed a few of Marisa's books years ago. She had some forbidden tomes on spiritual partitioning. I studied them just for fun, never thinking I'd actually use that knowledge."
Her voice dimmed. "Turns out it saved me in the end."
Yuyuko gave a small, approving smile. "You always did have a knack for breaking rules and surviving by miracle."
Satori's gaze softened slightly. "Very well. We'll keep this between the family heads. But what about your brother? He deserves to know."
Tenshi's eyes lowered, her voice quieter. "It's Riku's decision. Whether he tells the others or not... I'll respect it. For now, I don't want him burdened with more secrets than he already carries."
There was a moment of silence before Yuyuko stood up gracefully, her sleeves flowing like mist. "Then we'll go inside the inner sanctum and inform the Dragon God. You should rest for now."
Tenshi scratched her cheek awkwardly. "Actually... I can't."
Satori tilted her head. "Why not?"
Tenshi sighed. "Because... she forbade me from entering without permission."
That earned her three puzzled stares.
Yuyuko blinked. "Wait, she? I thought the Dragon God was male."
Tenshi smirked, shrugging lightly. "He was. But apparently, he decided to take on an avatar that 'suits his tastes.' You'll see what I mean when you meet her. Trust me, words won't do it justice."
Remilia groaned softly. "That dragon never changes."
Tenshi stretched her arms, her demeanor shifting back to its usual confident tone. "Anyway, you'd better hurry. I can feel Satori's projection spell starting to fade. Once it collapses, you'll be kicked out of the mindscape."
The three women nodded in understanding. Yuyuko gave one last look toward the Celestial, her eyes soft with respect. "Take care of yourself, Tenshi. You've done enough for now."
"Yeah, yeah." Tenshi waved dismissively, though there was warmth behind her teasing tone. "Go on, I'll be fine."
As the three departed, their forms fading into ethereal mist, Tenshi turned toward the open sky above the palace. The clouds shimmered faintly with divine light as she exhaled deeply.
"Well then," she murmured, summoning a large keystone beside her. The stone glowed with celestial energy as she leapt gracefully atop it. "Time to get to work."
The keystone rose into the air, drifting upward until the Celestial became a faint silhouette against the glowing horizon. For a brief moment, the light reflected off her sapphire hair, making her look like the sky itself had come alive.
Then, without another word, she vanished into the distance—off to handle matters only she could face.
Meanwhile with Riku and the Girls...
The echo of their footsteps filled the gilded corridors of the Dragon Palace as Riku guided the girls deeper within its heart. Ethereal streams of water flowed beneath the crystal floors, glimmering like liquid starlight. The air was tranquil, yet charged with a quiet divinity that made even the most curious among them tread carefully.
While walking, the girls marveled at the intricate murals and paintings adorning the corridor walls—each one depicting ancient scenes of celestial power, gods, and dragons intertwined with mortals. One particular portrait made Kasumi pause, her eyes widening.
"Senpai!" she exclaimed, pointing toward a large painting illuminated by the faint blue glow of spirit-lights. "Who's this girl? She looks like... a female version of you!"
Arisa sighed and gave Kasumi a light chop on the head. "You don't just say that out loud, Kasumi."
But Riku merely chuckled, the faintest nostalgia in his expression as he looked up at the portrait.
"That, Kasumi-san, is the very first Nagae—and the first messenger of the Dragon God. Nagae Iku."
The girls blinked in disbelief. The woman in the painting had short violet hair, serene eyes, and wore the same white-and-black attire they'd once seen Riku replicate during his performances. The resemblance was uncanny—almost like looking into a mirror across centuries.
"The first Nagae?" Maya murmured. "So she's your ancestor..."
Riku nodded. "Yes. She was the one who first forged a bond between humanity and the divine currents of the skies. Every descendant of the Nagae carries a trace of her blessing."
Chiyu frowned slightly, realizing something. "Wait... if her name was Iku... then that means..." Her eyes widened. "You're using her name as your stage name!?"
A few of the others gasped softly, turning toward him for confirmation. Riku sighed with a half-smile.
"Remember when I told you all that I came up with the name Iku at random? That wasn't entirely true," he admitted. "When I was trying to decide what to call myself before my debut, I felt a sudden presence in my thoughts—the Dragon God. It told me I could use my ancestor's name if I wished."
He looked away, almost embarrassed. "I hesitated, of course. It felt... sacred. But the Dragon God insisted, said it was fitting. So I took the name. From that moment on, when I step onto a stage, I'm not just Riku—I'm Iku."
Chiyu tilted her head. "So, basically, 'Iku' is kind of like a title?"
Riku chuckled lightly. "More or less." He stopped walking. "Anyway... we're here."
Before them stood a massive obsidian gate, towering and ancient, its surface etched with divine symbols that shimmered faintly with blue light. Two great oarfish coiled around each other in a yin-yang formation, while a majestic dragon encircled them both, its body etched in gleaming silver.
Rinko's eyes widened. "Riku... that's..."
Riku nodded solemnly. "This is the door to the Dragon God's sanctum. I come here whenever something weighs heavily on my mind." He turned toward them with a faint smile. "And now, I want you to meet her."
Tsugumi flinched. "W-wait, her? You're saying we're about to meet an actual god!? We're not ready for that!"
Riku chuckled softly. "Don't worry, Tsugumi-san. You'll be fine."
Misaki raised an eyebrow. "How are you even going to open that door?"
Without another word, Riku raised his hands. Lightning crackled from his fingertips, coursing through the air like living veins of energy. The oarfish on the door began to move, their glowing bodies weaving in rhythm to an unseen melody as the dragon's eyes illuminated with radiant gold. Bolts of lightning struck the seams of the gate, and the rumbling of power echoed throughout the corridor.
With a heavy clang, the great door parted, revealing a chamber bathed in soft, violet light.
"Let's go," Riku said quietly.
The group stepped inside.
The room was vast, yet serene. Streams of water circled the perimeter like floating ribbons, and faint motes of light drifted in the air like stars. At the center sat a girl with long violet hair, a white blouse and black skirt flowing around her like celestial silk. She sipped tea in elegant silence, but when she opened her eyes, the girls froze.
Ruby-red eyes—calm yet piercing—met theirs.
"Ara~," the girl said softly, setting down her cup with a gentle clink. "It seems you've brought quite a few guests today, Riku."
Maya whispered shakily, "R-Riku-san... that's—"
Before she could finish, the girl stood gracefully and approached her. She gently lifted Maya's chin with two fingers, her touch light yet commanding.
"No need to ask who I am," she said with a serene smile. "I am Nagae Iku, the first of my name... and the current vessel of the Dragon God."
The girls' jaws collectively dropped.
"The... the Dragon God!?" Arisa stammered. "That's you!?"
Iku nodded, folding her hands behind her back. "This form suits me well enough for now. After all, it's easier to converse this way than to appear as a blinding dragon of light, don't you think?"
The girls exchanged bewildered glances, unsure whether to bow, kneel, or simply stand frozen.
Riku rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. "You're all wondering why she looks like this, right? The Dragon God's true form is beyond human perception, so she manifests through my ancestor's image—her first messenger."
"Exactly," Iku said, smiling warmly. "It's dull staying in one form for eternity. Sometimes, it's fun to walk among mortals." Her tone softened. "I would love to speak more, but unfortunately..."
Her eyes flicked toward Riku's arm.
The girls gasped as they saw his hand beginning to fade, his body slowly dissolving into light.
"Wha—Senpai!" Kasumi cried. "What's happening!?"
Riku raised his hand calmly, though his voice carried urgency. "Relax. Satori-san's spell is wearing off. Our time in the mindscape is ending. We'll be back in the real world soon."
Iku's gentle voice echoed through the chamber. "I'm glad I'm able to meet all of you, even if briefly. Riku has found true companions—ones I can entrust him to." Her crimson eyes softened. "Take care of him, won't you?"
The girls nodded instinctively. Before they could reply further, their surroundings began to dissolve into brilliant light. The celestial palace, the dragon murals, the scent of tea—all faded into white.
Iku returned to her seat, quietly picking up her cup. She smiled faintly. "Let's see how things unfold from here..."
Back to RealityHakugyoku Hotel - Stockholm Branch - Rooftop
A faint hum filled the air as the final traces of spiritual energy dissipated. One by one, the girls who had entered Riku's mindscape began to stir. Eirin, who had been monitoring them, exhaled in relief when she saw movement.
"Riku," she called softly, "you're awake."
Riku slowly opened his eyes, his head still spinning slightly. "Eirin-san... did anything happen while we were out?"
"None," she said. "You were all safe the entire time. What happened inside?"
He exhaled, glancing at the others who were still waking. "I'll explain later. For now, let's help the others."
Together, they assisted the girls as each slowly regained consciousness, confusion and awe still visible on their faces. When everyone was finally awake, Riku recounted a condensed version of what transpired in his mindscape—careful to omit certain divine details.
Even so, disbelief rippled through the group. Yet with Yuyuko, Satori, and Remilia as witnesses, the story held weight. The air remained heavy as the implications settled among them.
End of Flashback
Riku's POV
Yeah... like hell I'm telling them that whole story. There's no way they'd believe it anyway.
They're all looking at me now, waiting for an explanation about why I was yawning earlier. I offer a half-smile and decide to take the easy way out.
"Just made a few last-minute adjustments for the finals," I said casually. "Nothing big."
They nodded, buying the lie without question. Crisis averted.
While waiting for the autograph session to start, I glanced at my phone. A new message from Rinko blinked across the screen.
Rinko: Riku, are you free later? Ako and I are hopping on NFO tonight. Want to join?
I smirked faintly and typed back.
Riku: After the signing, sure. 4 P.M.
Just as I hit send, a call from Nitori and Takane came through. They reported that the supplies for my latest side project had finally arrived in Japan.
"Got it," I told them. "You can start setting up. Just... don't overdo it this time."
They promised they wouldn't—though with those two, that promise was questionable at best.
By the time I hung up, the boys were finishing the last of the preparations. A glance toward the waiting line made several of us swallow nervously. The line stretched all the way across the lobby, packed with fans holding albums, posters, and even replica mics.
When the clock finally struck ten, the staff signaled us. The noise of the crowd swelled.
I exhaled deeply, adjusting my pen and offering a tired smile. "Alright," I muttered under my breath. "Let's get this show started."
The signing session began—another long day ahead.
----------
Hakugyoku Hotel Stockholm Branch – Gaming Room
4:00 P.M.
The autograph session had ended an hour ago, and to be blunt—it was brutal. None of us expected such an overwhelming crowd. We had mentally prepared for the usual rush, but what awaited us was something else entirely. Three bands, hundreds of fans each... and by the looks of it, half of them had queued up mainly to get my signature. Probably because this would be the one and only chance they'd ever get an autograph from me in person.
By the time we finished, my right hand felt like it had been through a boxing match. If it weren't for Eirin-san's miracle medicine, I'd be signing casts tomorrow instead of papers. Seven thousand autographs—seven thousand. The only thing keeping me upright by the end was sheer willpower and caffeine.
Still, we managed to complete it all on time. The organizers even complimented our efficiency, though I'm not sure that was worth the early onset of arthritis.
As the team regrouped in the lounge afterward, the latest match results flashed across the event monitors.
BetBoom 0–2 beastcoast.
That one caught me off guard. After BetBoom's convincing win over Team Liquid, I assumed they'd cruise through the next round. But it seemed they got too comfortable—beastcoast read them like an open book. That meant beastcoast would move on to face Gaimin Gladiators.
TSM 2–0 Fnatic.
Now that was a show. Bryle and SabeRLighT- practically danced through their opponents, putting on a flawless performance. Fnatic didn't stand a chance. With that victory, TSM advanced to face Thunder Awaken.
The next two matches were even more intense.
Gaimin Gladiators 2–1 beastcoast.
Gaimin took the opener cleanly, but beastcoast answered back strong in Game 2. The deciding round, however, turned into something truly wild—a bass-off between beastcoast's Wisper and Gaimin's Ace. They both agreed mid-match to make it an endurance challenge: whoever's fingers gave out first, lost. Ten minutes in, Wisper's finger started bleeding, and he forfeited. The crowd went insane.
TSM 2–0 Thunder Awaken.
TSM carried their momentum right into the next match, dominating Thunder Awaken. Still, watching their plays, it felt like they were holding back—saving something for the finals.
So, we were down to four finalists: three from Western Europe and one lone representative from North America—TSM. The pressure they'd be under tomorrow would be enormous.
Later that afternoon, we got word from the event organizers about a last-minute change. Instead of the traditional five songs per band for the grand finals, each band would perform three. With four finalists, time constraints were inevitable. None of us minded—it meant tighter pacing and higher intensity.
For now, though, I needed a break. A long one.
That's how I found myself in the hotel's gaming room, slouched comfortably in a recliner with Rinko and Ako-chan nearby. To my surprise, the rest of Roselia was there too, already immersed in their own games. The room itself was a sleek, high-end space—walls lit by neon blue accents, screens everywhere, consoles lined up along the far wall, and the gentle hum of PCs filling the air.
When Ako-chan found out I also played New Fantasy Online, her entire demeanor lit up like a Christmas tree. She practically exploded with questions.
"Riku-san! What's your username? What's your main class? How high is your level? What's your best gear? Your skill rotation? Oh! What's your combat style? Do you PvP? What's your favorite boss raid—"
By the time she reached her fifth question, I was almost ready to cast Silence in real life. Thankfully, Rinko stepped in, gently placing a hand on Ako's shoulder.
"Ako-chan," she said softly, "he can't answer everything at once."
Ako pouted, but nodded, muttering something about "finally meeting a pro who actually plays."
I asked Rinko how good the others were in NFO, and she smiled faintly. "They're above average. Lisa's more of a healer type, Sayo prefers tactics and team formations, Ako—well, you already know—and Yukina just brute-forces everything."
That sounded about right.
I logged into my account, the soft chime echoing through my headset.
[OG.Iku is online.]
As my screen came to life, the vibrant world of Neo Fantasy Online unfolded before me. I selected my avatar, and in an instant, light enveloped my view—then, I materialized in the game's main city, Saint Haven.
The air shimmered with energy, sunlight reflecting off marble spires and crystalline fountains. NPCs and players bustled about, merchants calling out deals, adventurers showing off their new loot, and mounts of every size and color roaming the cobbled streets. It was a world alive in every sense.
My avatar wore a crisp white suit with blue and black accents, paired with a sleek black tie and fitted white trousers. White gloves and metallic boots that reached my knees completed the ensemble. My character's violet hair was long, styled in loose spikes tied back into a ponytail—elegant yet commanding.
Rinko's avatar appeared in the chat soon after.
[Rin-Rin is online.]
Her message popped up almost immediately.
Rinko: "Riku! You're finally online! Where are you? I thought we were meeting at the square?"
Riku: "Ah, yeah. I got spawned at the other side. Give me a sec, I'll teleport there."
I typed the command, and my avatar dissolved into a cascade of blue motes before reappearing in the bustling town square.
"Sorry I made you girls wait." The moment I arrived at the square, five pairs of eyes turned to me at once. Judging by their gear, I could immediately tell who had been grinding and who hadn't. Lisa-san, Sayo-san, and Yukina-san were hovering around level fifty, which was solid for casual play. Ako-chan, on the other hand, had clearly been living in this game. Her set screamed level ninety—probably modded to hell and back.
Still, the level gap between Ako-chan and the rest of Roselia was... yeah. Bruh. It looked like a raid group held together by pure optimism.
Curiosity got the better of me, so I pulled up their shared status boards.
Name: Rin-Rin
Level: 92
Class: Sorceress
Name: Demon Princess Ako
Level: 90
Class: Summoner
Name: Sayo
Level: 55
Class: Guardian
Name: Lisa
Level: 50
Class: Cleric
Name: Yukina
Level: 50
Class: Bard
Pretty balanced lineup, actually—two supports, one tank, two heavy magic dealers. But when they saw me, everything froze.
Lisa-san blinked. "Riku! You've... made... it... whoa..."
All of them stared at my avatar, wide-eyed, jaws slightly open. Yeah, okay. Maybe the armor was a little much. White coat with reflective blue circuits, shoulder guards glowing faintly, and a cannon-shaped jetpack humming on my back—it didn't exactly say "modest gamer."
Sayo-san turned to Rinko, half whispering, "Shirokane-san... what's Riku-san's class?"
Rinko looked hesitant. "Um... Riku... can you show your status board?"
I opened the party tab and shared my character info with them. The display blinked once before revealing the data.
Name: OG.Iku
Level: 100
Class: Centurion
Lisa-san gasped first. "Level 100?!"
Sayo-san squinted. "Centurion? Shirokane-san, what's a Centurion?"
Before Rinko could answer, Ako-chan's avatar sprinted up and grabbed mine by the collar, shaking it so violently her horns clipped through my character's head.
"Riku-nii! Is that the limited edition Cyber Class Centurion?!"
Lisa-san blinked again. "Cyber Class?"
Rinko sighed but smiled faintly, stepping in to explain. "Cyber Classes are one of the most complex categories ever added to NFO. They were introduced five years ago, meant for advanced players. The main feature is their ability to execute long-range AOE attacks while maintaining flexible defense. But using them properly is... let's just say, brutal."
She continued, tone steady and informative. "Each Cyber Class has a skill sequence system. If the combo chain isn't executed perfectly, the player burns through mana in seconds. But when used right, mana costs drop to almost nothing. The catch? Only eight people in the world have mastered one."
Sayo-san let out a low whistle. "So... it's that hard? Then why did you choose a class that difficult, Riku-san?"
I shrugged. "I like a challenge. Suits my style. Plus, it doubles as finger training."
They all tilted their heads, confused, except Yukina-san, who caught on immediately.
"Ah," she said, smiling knowingly. "So your reflexes improve for guitar and keyboard performances."
"Exactly," I replied, grinning back.
Rinko nodded, continuing her lecture for the others. "Riku's class, Centurion, is one of twelve Cyber Classes. It specializes in bombardment and heavy artillery. Think long-range combat—missiles, grenades, rockets, drones. It's practically a walking armory. Despite that, it's classified as a tank because of its ridiculous HP pool. Kind of like Hikawa-san's role."
I added, "Centurions can also serve as support. We've got damage-reduction fields and recovery drones that boost party endurance. I can handle front-line pressure and protect the casters simultaneously."
Sayo-san's avatar straightened, armor plates gleaming. "Then you'll be helping me up front?"
"Not quite," I said. "I'll take vanguard alone. You'll stay near Yukina-san and Lisa-san—they're both support-heavy and need a bodyguard. Keep your shield between them and the chaos. When Ako-chan or Rinko start casting, intercept any mobs that try to interrupt their chants."
"Understood," Sayo-san said with military crispness.
A moment of silence passed before she added, "By the way, why do you have 'OG' in your name?"
"Ah, that." I smiled. "OG's more than just our band. We run a gaming division too, and I'm one of the main contributors for our NFO content. The 'OG' tag also represents our guild—one of Western Europe's top-ranked. I'll probably upload this session once the Future World Fes wraps up."
Ako-chan's eyes sparkled like fireworks. "Wait, wait, Riku-nii! Is that your actual gear right now?"
I shook my head. "Nope. This is just a costume overlay. Most high-level players use it to keep our builds private. Here, I'll show you the real thing."
I opened my menu and disabled the costume setting. In an instant, the sleek white coat faded away, revealing my true armor underneath—a radiant set of plate and circuitry forged from Divine Aquasteel, glowing faintly as if carved from liquid moonlight. The chestplate shimmered with runic energy, and from my back unfolded a colossal, double-barreled cannon, its core pulsing with ethereal blue fire.
The room went silent.
Then, Ako-chan's avatar crumpled to the ground face-first. THUD.
Everyone froze.
Rinko's shout cut through the game-room chatter like a bell.
"Ako-chan!!"
Lisa-san followed, half-laughing, half-concerned. "Ako!!"
I just grinned as I expected it to happen. "Yeah, I knew this was gonna happen."
Yukina-san cocked an eyebrow. "You expected that?"
"Yup." I shrugged, amused. "That's the normal reaction for any NFO player who sees someone wearing a full Phantasmal set."
"Phantasmal?" Lisa-san repeated, incredulous. "Rinko, isn't Phantasmal the highest grade in the game?"
Rinko nodded, face lit with the sort of professional pride only a raider would know. "Hai. Phantasmal gear drops only in Phantasmal Raids—rare events that spawn once every two months. And from what Riku's wearing, that's the Water Guardian set from the Hall of the Water Oracle. Takes a coordinated raid and ridiculous luck. I'd guess it took him at least three years to collect the whole thing."
I waved a hand. "You're flattering me. It was a team clear and some stubborn grinding." I then turned to Ako-chan, who was still flat on her face on the floor of the plaza, breathlessly staring up at my armor like a worshipper at a shrine. "You okay, Ako-chan?"
She rolled over and blinked at me with the kind of dazed awe only kids and hardcore gamers could produce. The light in her eyes gave me an idea—one I already knew Rinko would hate. Sure enough, Rinko's online avatar narrowed her eyes the way it always did when I looked too dangerously generous.
"Riku... what are you planning?" she asked, suspicious and mildly amused.
"Come on, Rinko. Not every session I play is some plot." I spread his hands, innocently boyish. "I just thought—if I can give your friends a boost that actually helps, why not?"
Rinko crossed her arms. "And what, precisely, are you giving them?"
"Girls, open your trade windows," Riku said. "I want to give you something."
Sayo-san, Rinko, and Ako-chan summoned their trade interfaces; Lisa-san helped as Yukina-san fumble hers into place like a patient tutor. I didn't answer the question—I simply sent the items across. A soft ping, a shimmer, and the trade boxes filled with a single item each.
Rinko and Ako-chan's faces went absolutely livid—ecstatic and embarrassed all at once. Ako screamed in chat, her voice a high, squealing thing. "RIKU-NII!!! THIS IS TOO MUCH!!! YOU'RE GIVING US GUARANTEE PHANTASMAL WEAPON TICKETS?!?!"
Rinko, normally the model of composed raider-rationality, was suddenly a storm. "HOW DID YOU GET SO MANY?! AND WHY WOULD YOU GIVE THEM TO US?!"
Lisa-san leaned forward, genuinely puzzled. "Is... is that bad?"
Rinko waved a hand at her. "No, Lisa-san, it's not bad. It's—" She swallowed. "It's the dream. A Guarantee Phantasmal Weapon Ticket gives you a guaranteed Phantasmal-grade weapon for your class. Most players only ever hope to get one. To have one presented like a casual present..." Her voice broke on the last word, stunned and thrilled.
I rubbed the side of his cheek, as I am feigning embarrassment. "I've already locked in my equipment. There's nowhere for extra Phantasmal to go, and seeing Ako's face made me think—why not help?"
Rinko's expression softened into a giggle. "Ufufufufu~ I knew you had a soft spot for kids, Riku. So you gave these to Ako-chan?"
Ako-chan shot back, indignant but still glowing. "Don't treat me like a child, Riku-nii! I'm in high school, remember? I'm practically an adult!"
"You're still a kid to me," I said dryly, smiling. "Now—pick wisely."
They opened their tickets. The interface rolled into a cinematic pop-up: five weapon models hovered in a semi-circle, each pre-filtered for the recipient's class. Riku kept his voice level, but there was a small thrill beneath it—he liked watching people get better.
"These aren't ordinary tickets," I explained firmly. "Each ticket shows five class-appropriate Phantasmal weapons. You pick one, it spawns instantly, and it comes already enhanced to +7."
Ako-chan made a strangled noise that could have been prayer or mortal fear. "+7?! That's borderline legendary right there!"
Rinko's hand hovered over her selection, eyes narrowing in the cold calculation of a veteran player. The five options were tempting—each a monstrously powerful choice for different playstyles. The plaza hummed with the soft clicking of selections as Ako and Rinko scrolled through previews: swing animations, special skill shots, crit windows, and stat displays that made even the casual spectator's head spin.
Sayo-san watched with a rare, gentle smile. "Riku-san's generosity is going to break the economy," she said dryly.
Lisa-san laughed, half in awe. "He's actually doing this for us. I... I don't know what to say."
Yukina-san folded her arms, but there was warmth in her eyes. "Use them well."
Rinko's POV
As Riku explained the mechanics behind the Phantasmal Weapon Tickets, I found myself paralyzed in front of the selection window. Five brilliant staves shimmered before me, each radiating power enough to rewrite how I played. Two stood out immediately—both perfect, both dangerous to ignore.
The [Staff of the Ancients] called to the strategist in me: a 45% chance to automatically repeat a spell cast within the last ten seconds, without any mana cost. The thought alone made my fingers twitch. Imagine casting Mana Flare twice, back to back.
But then there was the [Octarine Scepter]. It wasn't just strong—it was absurd. When I opened its details, I nearly forgot to breathe.
[+7 Octarine Scepter]
Class: Phantasmal
Durability: 800/800
Req. Level: 0 (Scales to current level)
Physical Attack: 1,500 (→18,984)
Magical Attack: 3,800 (→26,452)
Physical Defense: 195 (→2,555)
Magical Defense: 360 (→4,147)
HP: +2,000 (→79,885)
MP: +3,500 (→102,665)
Unique Passive – Octarine Regenerator:
Reduces all skill mana cost and cooldown by 25% (max 45%).
Grants [Brilliance Aura], giving the user and nearby party members +10% mana regeneration.
Increases Skill Amplification by 15% (+3% per 10 levels).
Unique Skill – Arcane Refresh:
Consume 35% of max MP to instantly reset all cooldowns.
(All skills' mana cost temporarily increased by 25%.)
Cooldown: 360 seconds
Enhancement Bonuses:
+1: Critical Chance +10%
+2: All Elemental Resistance +35%
+3: Skill Life Steal +20%
+4: Skill Cooldown +15%
+5: Skill Damage Amplification +15%
+6: Movement/Attack Speed +25%
+7: Status Resistance +20%
+8: Physical and Magical Attack +15%
+9: Physical and Magical Defense +15%
+10: Mana Cost -15%
+11: Critical Damage +25%
+12: Max HP and Mana +20%
I blinked at the screen. The numbers didn't feel real. "Broken" wasn't even the right word—this thing was a walking cheat code. I knew Phantasmal-grade weapons could tilt the game's balance, but this one? It could bend the entire system.
Riku mentioned the items came with +7 enhancements once claimed, but reading those bonuses in detail made me realize how ridiculous that really was. A weapon like this could carry someone straight through the endgame without ever swapping out.
I drew a slow breath. "Alright," I murmured to myself. "Let's be a little greedy." And I tapped Confirm.
[Congratulations to Rin-Rin for claiming +7 Octarine Scepter!!]
Riku's avatar turned toward me, a knowing grin on his face.
"So, you went for the [Octarine Scepter]? Not bad at all."
I smiled faintly, spinning the new staff in my hands. Its surface shimmered like liquid crystal, every motion trailing faint ripples of light. "I was tempted by the [Staff of the Ancients], but this passive—and that cooldown reset skill—it's too good to ignore."
"Solid choice," Riku said, folding his arms. "And yeah, all Phantasmal items start at level zero. They scale with you. That's why they're so rare—once you get one, it grows with your character forever. You never need to replace it... though," he added with a dry chuckle, "the repair fees will drain your wallet faster than any boss fight."
I laughed softly. "I can imagine. Still, that scaling makes it worth it. But... five tickets, Riku? Seriously? How?"
He paused for a moment before answering, his voice quieter. "My old raid team gave them to me. Most of them quit the game—real life caught up, as it always does. They handed me their leftover tickets before logging out for good."
For a second, his expression softened—not sadness exactly, but something thoughtful. Then the familiar glint returned to his eyes. "Guess it's about time those tickets went to use."
Before I could reply, four more notification chimes filled the air, one after another.
[Congratulations to Demon Princess Ako for claiming +7 Pandaria's Grimoire!!]
[Congratulations to Lisa for claiming +7 Staff of the Last Saint!!]
[Congratulations to Sayo for claiming +7 Davion's Sword and Shield!!]
[Congratulations to Yukina for claiming +7 Lyre of the Wind Archon!!]
Ako-chan raised her glowing grimoire high like a victory banner, beaming from ear to ear.
"Rin-Rin, look! Look at this beauty!"
I couldn't help but smile. "Ako-chan, why that one? I thought you were saving for a demon-summoning grimoire."
She puffed out her chest proudly. "I was! But this one's effects are way too good. I couldn't pass it up! Take a look!!"
I glanced at the grimoire's details as the glowing runes slowly faded into the air. Ako-chan really made the right call on this one. The stats were absurd—beyond anything I'd seen for its tier.
[+7 Pandaria's Grimoire]
Class: Phantasmal
Durability: 800/800
Required Level: 0 (Scales to current level)
Physical Attack: 1,400 (→17,965)
Magical Attack: 3,600 (→26,023)
Physical Defense: 186 (→2,410)
Magical Defense: 360 (→4,147)
HP: 2,000 (→78,457)
MP: 3,500 (→100,420)
Unique Passive – Pandaren Element
The user can harness four distinct pandaren elements—Fire, Earth, Storm, and Void—each tied to the current grimoire state.
Fire Element: Critical Chance +10%, Critical Damage +10%, Attack Speed +15%.
Earth Element: Physical and Magical Defense +10%.
Storm Element: Evasion +15%, Movement Speed +5%.
Void Element: Status Resistance +10%. All attacks inflict +25% Slow for 2.5 seconds.
Unique Skill – Primal Split
Summons four Pandarens (Fire, Earth, Storm, Void) to fight alongside the user. Each has three skills and inherits 70% of the user's stats. Duration: 180 seconds. Skill mana costs are taken from the caster. (Cooldown: 300 seconds)
Fire Pandaren Skills
Flame Barrier (Active): Forms a fiery barrier equal to 30% of the user's max HP for 40 seconds. (CD 60 s)
Immolation (Active): Adds 6% continuous magical damage; drains mana over time. Toggle on/off.
Flame Road (Active): Creates a path of fire dealing continuous damage and high burn chance. (CD 45 s)
Storm Pandaren Skills
Cyclone (Active): Traps a target in a cyclone for 18 seconds, disabling skills and attacks. (CD 30 s)
Static Pull (Active): Draws enemies to the center for 6 seconds. (CD 30 s)
Lightning Aura (Passive): Increases ally movement and attack speed by 8%.
Earth Pandaren Skills
Boulder Toss (Active): Throws boulders to stun enemies for 8 seconds. (CD 35 s)
Guardian Aura (Passive): Boosts ally max HP and regen by 10%.
Solid Rock (Passive): Reduces incoming damage by 15%, increases defense by 9%.
Void Pandaren Skills
Aether Push (Active): Forces a target to a location and interrupts casts. (CD 35 s)
Aether Aura (Passive): Increases ally spell amplification by 15%.
Black Hole (Active): Pulls enemies into the center for 6 seconds. (CD 100 s)
Enhancement Bonuses:
+1 Critical Chance +10%
+2 All Elemental Resistance +35%
+3 Skill Life Steal +20%
+4 Skill Cooldown −15%
+5 Skill Damage Amplification +15%
+6 Movement/Attack Speed +25%
+7 Status Resistance +20%
+8 Physical & Magical Attack +15%
+9 Physical & Magical Defense +15%
+10 Mana Cost −15%
+11 Critical Damage +25%
+12 Max HP and Mana +20%
When the last line of stats faded, I finally exhaled.
"Wow," I muttered. "With this... you can at least fight on your own," she said softly. "But using [Primal Split] means controlling four Pandarens alongside your avatar. Are you sure you can manage that much micro at once?"
Ako-chan just grinned, clutching the grimoire close to her chest like a trophy. "With these pandarens at my side, any battle can be won! Believe it!"
As the grimoire floated before her, its pages turned on their own, glowing faintly with the hue of shifting elements—crimson, azure, jade, and void-black. Each pulse of color resonated with power, like the beating of a slumbering beast. Watching her hold it, even Rin-Rin couldn't deny it: this wasn't just a weapon. It was a statement.
Ako-chan had stepped into a different league entirely.
I looked at the others, curiosity getting the better of me. "What about you girls? Why did you pick those?"
Hikawa-san stepped forward, her usual calm expression holding a faint trace of satisfaction as she lifted her weapon.
"I picked this one," she said simply. "Looking at the passive it provides, this would benefit me the most."
[+7 Davion's Sword and Shield]
Class: Phantasmal
Durability: 800/800
Req. Level: 0 (Scales to current level)
Physical Attack: 2,700 (→ 9,448)
Magical Attack: 1,900 (→ 6,544)
Physical Defense: 355 (→ 6,187)
Magical Defense: 355 (→ 6,054)
HP: 4,000 (→ 97,461)
MP: 2,500 (→ 50,660)
Unique Passive – Dragon's Blood: Increases HP regeneration by 10% and physical/magical defense by 15% (+5% for every 15% max HP lost). Grants [Dragon's Aura], increasing elemental resistance by 25%. When HP falls below 30%, there's a 25% chance to cast [Flare Burst], inflicting AOE fire damage.
Unique Skill – Dragon Form: Transforms the user into one of four dragons based on level progression: Green (Poison Damage) – Lv 25, Red (Fire Damage) – Lv 50, Blue (Ice Damage) – Lv 75, Black (Chaos Damage) – Lv 100. During this form, all attacks deal AOE damage and the user cannot be pushed or interrupted. HP and defenses increase by 35%, and elemental/status resistance by 20%. Lasts 100 seconds. (Cooldown: 300 seconds)
Enhancement Bonuses:
+1 Critical Chance +10%
+2 All Elemental Resistance +35%
+3 Skill Life Steal +20%
+4 Skill Cooldown −15%
+5 Skill Damage Amplification +15%
+6 Movement/Attack Speed +25%
+7 Status Resistance +20%
+8 Physical & Magical Attack +15%
+9 Physical & Magical Defense +15%
+10 Mana Cost −15%
+11 Critical Damage +25%
+12 Max HP and Mana +20%
Riku nodded approvingly. "Quite a pick, Sayo-san. You get tankier the less HP you've got. Stack a few resistances and even players in the seventies will struggle to take you down."
A faint blush colored Hikawa-san's cheeks. "Thank you... Riku-san."
Her tone was modest, but I could tell she was pleased. That shield looked practically made for her—solid, disciplined, and quietly fierce.
Riku's gaze then shifted toward Imai-san and Yukina-san, who were standing side by side, each holding a gleaming Phantasmal weapon that pulsed faintly with energy.
"What about you two?" he asked.
Imai-san was the first to grin. "Me and Yukina picked these ones."
[+7 Staff of the Last Saint]
Class: Phantasmal
Durability: 800/800
Req. Level: 0 (Scales to current level)
Physical Attack: 1,400 (→ 6,874)
Magical Attack: 2,900 (→ 9,554)
Physical Defense: 170 (→ 1,455)
Magical Defense: 225 (→ 2,147)
HP: 3,000 (→ 45,352)
MP: 3,500 (→ 58,804)
Unique Passive – Aureola's Grace: Each time the user casts a support or healing skill, there's a 25% chance to boost all allies' physical and magical attacks by 8% for 5 seconds (Stack Max: 3). When HP falls below 50%, all healing and support skill amplifications are increased by 35%, wearing off once HP returns to 80% or higher.
Unique Skill – Saint's Last Word: Negates all damage and healing to allies for 10 seconds when the user's HP drops below 25%. At the end of the duration, all debuffs are removed and the negated healing is doubled and applied instantly. (Cooldown: 180 seconds)
Enhancement Bonuses:
+1: Critical Chance +10%
+2: All Elemental Resistance +35%
+3: Skill Life Steal +20%
+4: Skill Cooldown +15%
+5: Skill Damage Amplification +15%
+6: Movement/Attack Speed +25%
+7: Status Resistance +20%
+8: Physical and Magical Attack +15%
+9: Physical and Magical Defense +15%
+10: Mana Cost -15%
+11: Critical Damage +25%
+12: Max HP and Mana +20%
Beside her, Yukina-san held an instrument that shimmered with a soft emerald glow, its strings humming faintly in the wind as if alive.
[+7 Lyre of the Wind Archon]
Class: Phantasmal
Durability: 800/800
Req. Level: 0 (Scales to current level)
Physical Attack: 1,700 (→ 5,541)
Magical Attack: 2,100 (→ 6,587)
Physical Defense: 150 (→ 1,102)
Magical Defense: 205 (→ 2,058)
HP: 3,500 (→ 39,887)
MP: 2,500 (→ 47,493)
Unique Passive – Voice of Ventus: After using sound-based skills three times, all nearby allies gain +10% movement and attack speed for 8 seconds, plus +15% HP and MP regeneration for 10 seconds. If the user's HP is below 30%, the effect is doubled.
Unique Skill – Archon's Sonata: Casts a melody that disables all enemies within range for 10 seconds; they cannot attack nor be attacked. All allies in range recover 5% of their max HP per second during the duration. (Cooldown: 250 seconds)
Enhancement Bonuses:
+1: Critical Chance +10%
+2: All Elemental Resistance +35%
+3: Skill Life Steal +20%
+4: Skill Cooldown +15%
+5: Skill Damage Amplification +15%
+6: Movement/Attack Speed +25%
+7: Status Resistance +20%
+8: Physical and Magical Attack +15%
+9: Physical and Magical Defense +15%
+10: Mana Cost -15%
+11: Critical Damage +25%
+12: Max HP and Mana +20%
Riku looked between the two with an approving grin. "Very nice picks. Judging from your choices, these weapons are heavy team-fight oriented—lots of area control and recovery effects." He paused, the corners of his mouth lifting in quiet amusement. "Pretty fitting, considering you're in a band."
Imai-san laughed softly, resting the staff on her shoulder. "Guess we're just used to performing as a group. Whether it's music or battle, timing's everything, right?"
Yukina-san gave a small nod, her expression serene but resolute. "If our harmony can protect the others... then it's worth mastering."
Watching them, I couldn't help but smile. Each of us had chosen weapons that matched not only our combat roles but our personalities. Hikawa-san's shield for discipline and endurance. Yukina-san's lyre for calm leadership. Imai-san's staff for support and spontaneity.
And Ako-chan... well, Ako's grimoire was pure chaos dressed as brilliance.
In the soft light of the arena, the six of us stood surrounded by weapons that didn't just shine—they resonated, humming faintly like the overture to a performance that hadn't yet begun.
Something told me this wasn't just gear selection anymore.
It was the start of something far bigger.
Ako's voice pierced the air, brimming with excitement. "Riku-nii! Can we see your weapon? Please!!!"
The sparkle in her eyes was almost blinding. It was that same look every gamer had when curiosity got the better of them—and Ako-chan was practically bouncing in place. Riku looked like he wanted to resist, but with Ako unleashing those puppy-dog eyes, it was a battle he never had a chance of winning.
He sighed in defeat, scratching the back of his neck with a resigned grin. "Alright, alright. I'll show you."
With a flick of his fingers, Riku opened his status board. A brilliant blue interface shimmered before us, reflecting off his armor as lines of text appeared—his weapon's full specifications. And when we saw it, all of us froze in awe.
[+12 Purified Water Guardian's Cannon (Freeze III)]
Class: Phantasmal
Durability: 800/800
Req. Level: 0 (Scales to current level)
Physical Attack: 3,200 (→154,887)
Magical Attack: 3,200 (→168,944)
Physical Defense: 580 (→45,854)
Magical Defense: 575 (→45,763)
HP: 9,000 (→407,461)
MP: 7,500 (→257,660)
Elemental Enchantment – Freeze III: Attacks and skills have a 25% chance to inflict freezing damage and apply a 50% slow on enemies for 5 seconds, reducing both physical and magical defense by 35%. Can stack up to 3 times, each stack increasing the debuff by 5%.
Stat Enchantments:
• Critical Chance +40%
• Critical Damage +250%
• Cooldown Reduction +30%
• Elemental Resistance +40%
Unique Passive – Tidal Blessing: Every 9 attacks, there's a 15% chance to automatically cast [Tidal Blessing], restoring 6% HP and MP. When attacked, 15% chance to trigger [Super Armor] for 5 seconds.
Unique Skill – Torrential Storm: Summons a massive, visible torrent of water around the user, dealing continuous magical damage and launching enemies into the air for 3 seconds. The torrent moves with the user and lasts 20 seconds. (Cooldown: 180 seconds)
Set Bonus:
2 Pieces – Attack/Movement Speed +12%
3 Pieces – Skill Damage Amplification +10%
4 Pieces – Physical/Magical Defense +10%
5 Pieces – Physical/Magical Attack +10%
7 Pieces – 15% chance to cast [Tidal Shot] on attack, dealing magic damage in a straight path.
Equipment Set:
Purified Water Guardian's Suit
Purified Water Guardian's Trousers
Purified Water Guardian's Gloves
Purified Water Guardian's Greaves
Purified Water Guardian's Cannon
Purified Water Guardian's Earrings
Purified Water Guardian's Ring
Enhancement Bonuses:
+1 Critical Chance +10%
+2 All Elemental Resistance +35%
+3 Skill Life Steal +20%
+4 Skill Cooldown +15%
+5 Skill Damage Amplification +15%
+6 Movement/Attack Speed +25%
+7 Status Resistance +20%
+8 Physical & Magical Attack +15%
+9 Physical & Magical Defense +15%
+10 Mana Cost −15%
+11 Critical Damage +25%
+12 Max HP & Mana +20%
Hikawa-san leaned closer, her eyes wide.
"What are these stats..." she whispered, almost in disbelief.
Even Yukina-san, who normally kept her composure, raised a brow at the sheer absurdity of the numbers.
I blinked several times, staring at the glowing weapon displayed before us.
"Why are your stats so much higher than ours, Riku? I know you're level 100, but... this doesn't add up."
Riku chuckled softly. "That's the perk of +12 enhancement," he said, tilting his head toward the cannon. "And the full set bonuses boost the stats even further. It's not just power—it's synergy. Every piece feeds into another."
He turned to us, his expression softening. "Anyway, how about we do a test run with your new weapons? It's best you learn how they move, how they feel."
Ako-chan's eyes immediately lit up again, and I couldn't help but grin at her contagious enthusiasm. The two of us started heading toward the outer training field, ready to try them out—when Riku suddenly called out.
"Wait—hold on a second," he said, tapping his chin thoughtfully. "I've got a better idea."
We all stopped, looking back curiously.
Riku's next words nearly made my heart skip a beat.
"How about you join my guild?"
For a moment, none of us said a word. Even Ako-chan stood frozen, her excitement temporarily replaced by shock. The idea alone... joining OG, Riku's guild... it was beyond what any of us expected.
My throat went dry. "Riku... that's too much. I don't think we're capable enough to join your guild."
He smiled faintly, his tone reassuring. "It's fine, Rinko. OG doesn't have any level requirements. You just need to clear a few dungeons with some of our members. And don't worry about approval—" He smirked. "—I'm the vice-captain."
Imai-san blinked in surprise. "Wait—you're the vice-captain? Then who's the captain?"
Riku's answer came casually, like it was the most obvious thing in the world. "Johan, of course."
Yukina-san tilted her head slightly, a rare look of curiosity breaking through her stoic demeanor. "Johan-san plays this game too?"
Riku nodded. "Yup. Not just him—every single member of OG plays NFO. Ceb, JeRax, Topson, even the newer boys. We use this game to vent, unwind, and sometimes... to beat some noobs." He chuckled at his own words, the nostalgic warmth in his voice unmistakable. "It's more than a hobby for us. Playing NFO helps us relax, laugh, and stay connected. It deepens our bond—not just as a band, but as brothers-in-arms."
He leaned back, hands behind his head. "Of course, we only play around three hours a day, max. But we make it count. And believe me—plenty of other pro players are in here too."
For a brief moment, the room was silent except for the hum of the ambient background music in the game's lobby. Then Yukina-san spoke, her calm voice carrying quiet conviction.
"If what you say is true—that this game can deepen our bond as a band..." She paused, her eyes meeting his. "...then I suppose I can play a bit longer."
Ako-chan nearly exploded with joy. "Yukina-san! You mean it!?"
Yukina-san gave a small smile—the kind that was rare but genuine. "However," she continued, "our music practice must still come first. If we have free time, then we can play. Are you both okay with that, Ako? Rinko?"
Ako-chan and I exchanged glances before nodding eagerly. "Of course," I said, smiling. "We wouldn't have it any other way."
Imai-san and Hikawa-san smiled too, clearly moved by Yukina's gradual openness. It was subtle, but everyone could feel it—she was changing, softening ever so slightly.
Yukina-san turned back toward Riku, her tone steady yet sincere. "Riku-san, I know some of us are on the weaker side... but your offer—to invite us—it's something we can't just decline. We accept."
For a moment, Riku blinked as if taken aback, before breaking into a warm smile. "Then welcome aboard."
He raised his hand and opened his status board once again. A soft ding echoed as several notifications appeared before each of us.
[OG.Iku has invited you to join the guild OG. Y/N]
The notification shimmered at the corner of my vision. I looked to the others—all smiling in quiet anticipation. We nodded at one another before pressing "Yes."
[Congratulations Rin-Rin for joining the guild OG!!]
[Congratulations Demon Princess Ako for joining the guild OG!!]
[Congratulations Yukina for joining the guild OG!!]
[Congratulations Lisa for joining the guild OG!!]
[Congratulations Sayo for joining the guild OG!!]
A faint glow surrounded us as our avatars shimmered, marking the change. Riku folded his arms proudly. "First and foremost," he said with a grin, "congratulations on becoming official members of OG. You'll probably notice something on your avatars right about... now."
Curious, I opened my status window—and there it was. My display name had changed.
Rin-Rin → OG.Rin-Rin
For a brief second, I just stared at it, a mix of disbelief and pride washing over me.
OG. It wasn't just a name—it was a symbol.
And somehow... it felt right.
Ako-chan's eyes sparkled brighter than the blue runes hovering around us.
"Look at my name, Rin-Rin!! I'm a member of OG now!!" she exclaimed, jumping in place as her avatar's tail wagged playfully.
Imai giggled softly, glancing at her own display name floating above her head. "It feels... kinda weird, honestly."
Riku smiled at us — calm, confident, and just a little proud. "Don't worry, you'll get used to it. From this moment on, you girls can consider yourselves official members of OG — both in game and in real life."
Hikawa-san exhaled slowly, trying to steady the excitement in her voice. "That's... a lot of pressure. But I think Roselia can take that pressure on." She turned to Yukina-san with a small, knowing smirk. "Right, Minato-san?"
Yukina-san nodded, her tone composed yet intrigued. "Yes, I suppose so..." She paused, her sharp eyes narrowing slightly. "Riku-san, there's something you haven't told us yet. What's the catch? You didn't just invite us into your guild without strings attached, did you?"
The moment she said that, Riku's grin widened — the kind of grin that told us trouble was about to begin.
"You realized it quickly, huh?" he said, crossing his arms. "Yes, there is one more thing you girls have to do before you can be considered true members of OG."
Imai-san groaned. "And what's that one thing we have to do? And why am I suddenly having a bad feeling about this?"
My heart dropped. No... don't tell me he's going to—
Riku raised a finger. "You girls will have to face me in a PvP match."
For a second, none of us could move. My entire body stiffened as my heart pounded.
He couldn't be serious. A duel against Riku — the player known for dismantling entire teams in New Fantasy Online — while wielding a +12 Phantasmal Set? That wasn't just suicide; that was a massacre waiting to happen.
"Wha—what!?" Ako-chan yelped. "Riku-nii, are you trying to kill us!?"
Riku chuckled lightly, clearly enjoying our reactions. "Now, before you all panic and log out, listen to the conditions first."
He raised three fingers. "First rule: all players' levels will be adjusted to level fifty. For example, since Rinko, Ako-chan, and I are all above level fifty, our levels will automatically be scaled down."
That seemed fair, but he wasn't done.
"Second, I won't be allowed to use any skills I unlocked above level seventy-five. I'll be limited to abilities from level seventy and below. You, however," he added, smirking, "can use all your current skills freely."
Imai-san folded her arms. "That sounds... slightly less terrifying."
"And the third," Riku continued, "if you can bring my HP below forty percent, you win. Alternatively, if you can survive for fifteen minutes, you'll also win. You have ten minutes to prepare. I need to switch skill sets while you strategize."
He turned and walked off toward the preparation zone, his armor reflecting the crystalline light of the arena.
Silence filled the space between us for a few moments before Ako-chan broke it. "What're we gonna do now!? How are we gonna beat Riku-nii!? He's unstoppable!"
I took a deep breath and straightened my staff. "Calm down, Ako-chan. I'm already thinking of a plan."
Imai-san frowned, her curiosity piqued. "Rinko, is Riku really that terrifying to face?"
"Terrifying is an understatement, Imai-san," I said quietly. "I've seen how he plays. He toys with his opponents — baiting, reading, predicting every move. He doesn't stay still; he moves constantly, always maintaining distance, always watching for openings. When he shoots, it's not random. Every shot counts."
Hikawa-san crossed her arms. "Then how do we stop something like that?"
I hesitated before opening my inventory and revealing a faintly glowing blue card. The others gasped as the runes etched on its surface pulsed with magic.
"A SP All Reset Card!?" Ako-chan shrieked. "Rin-Rin! Don't tell me you're actually gonna reset all your skill points!"
I nodded solemnly. "I know the risks. I'll lose every skill I've carefully built over the years... but if it's against Riku, it's worth it. I can't stay a DPS mage — I need to become something more flexible. A support-mage hybrid. Someone who can slow him down, shield allies, and disrupt his attacks."
I clenched my staff tightly. "Riku's class specializes in AoE control and burst damage. If I don't adapt, he'll tear us apart before we even get close."
Before I could continue, Imai-san placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "Rinko, don't shoulder everything yourself. We're here — your band, your friends. Remember, this isn't a 1v1. It's 1v5."
Her smile carried both warmth and conviction. "If we stand together, we might just stand a chance."
Hikawa-san nodded. "She's right, Shirokane-san. You've been our guide since day one — you taught us how to play, how to fight, and how to think. Just lead us like you always have. We'll follow your call."
Yukina-san's voice was calm but firm. "Rinko... it's your decision. In this match, you're our leader. You give the orders, and we'll carry them out. Keep your composure — and we'll face this together."
Their words sank deep into me. My chest tightened — not from fear, but from pride. I looked at each of them, their avatars gleaming under the arena lights, determination etched on their faces.
"...Alright," I said finally. "Here's what we'll do."
Everyone leaned in.
"Hikawa-san, you'll take the front line. Your sword and shield will hold off Riku's cannon fire as best as you can."
Hikawa-san gave a small nod. "Understood."
"Ako-chan and I will move to the left and right flanks. We'll use offensive and disruption skills — draw his focus, break his rhythm, anything to keep him guessing."
"Roger that!" Ako-chan said, twirling her staff excitedly.
"Yukina-san will stay mid-range, focusing on buffs and shields. You'll keep our damage steady and our defenses intact."
"Alright," Yukina-san replied, her calm eyes glimmering faintly.
"And lastly, Imai-san will hold the rear, monitoring our HP and support cooldowns. Prioritize heals and use your staff's unique skill when necessary. Remember — no panic casting."
Imai-san winked. "Got it. Leave the rhythm to me."
I looked around at everyone once more. "One more thing — don't use your weapons' unique skills unless absolutely necessary. Time them wisely. They're our trump cards."
Everyone nodded. The air between us grew still, the anticipation weighing heavy. Across the arena, Riku was finishing his preparations. His armor shimmered with aquatic light, and his massive cannon — the Purified Water Guardian's Cannon — rested against his shoulder like it weighed nothing.
He looked at us, his expression unreadable beneath his helmet. "It seems you're all set," he said through the comms. "Are you ready?"
We took our positions, our formation forming naturally: shield, flanks, center, rear.
Riku chuckled softly. "Good. I see the confidence in your eyes." His helmet sealed shut, the glowing visor flickering with faint blue energy. "Now..."
His tone dropped, cold and heavy.
"...Calamity will soon befall you. I hope you've come prepared."
At that moment, the arena lights dimmed, and the countdown began. The ground beneath us pulsed with azure circuits, wind whirling as the system initialized the match.
Three... two... one...
I took a deep breath and tightened my grip on my staff. My heartbeat echoed in my ears like a drumline before a concert.
Riku raised his cannon, its core glowing an ominous blue.
And as the timer hit zero, a deafening surge of magic erupted.
This was it — Roselia's hardest battle yet.
No longer just musicians or players... but comrades, fighting side by side against one of the strongest players in the world.
And no matter what happened — win or lose — I knew one thing for certain.
We will persevere.
We will survive.
----------
Hovet Arena Backstage
May 21, 2021 – Friday – 7:30 A.M.
Riku's POV
Today's the day. The finals of the Future World Fes. After weeks of tension, countless rehearsals, and endless preparations, everything has come down to this. The stage that could decide OG's fate at The International is waiting just beyond those curtains. The thought alone tightened my chest with anticipation — and yet, beneath that weight, there was a calm certainty. We're ready.
I tried calling my grandfather earlier this morning, hoping to tell him that today's the big day. But no answer. Not even a message. Maybe he's busy. He's always been the kind who moves in silence until the time is right. Still, a part of me wanted him to see this — to see me finally standing on the edge of something monumental.
Before I left the hotel, I'd sent Aichi and Kaguya a link to the finals' live stream. Hopefully, they'd catch it before we go live. The least I could do was make them proud.
Yesterday's in-game match with Roselia replayed vividly in my head. Rinko and the girls surprised me — not with raw power, but with adaptability. I hadn't expected them to coordinate so efficiently. Their crowd control was brutal. Lisa-san's healing kept them afloat longer than I predicted, Yukina-san's buffs amplified their tempo, and Sayo-san... she took more punishment than anyone should've. Even those annoying panda familiars kept disrupting my rhythm, preventing me from building up Super Armor stacks. Damn things. Still, they endured the full fifteen minutes, and for that, they earned my respect. When it was over, I officially welcomed Roselia into OG.
After the game, Johan and I stayed up refining our final setlist for today. We agreed on three core songs — two for precision, one for impact. I'd be on keyboards for the finals, and I made sure the instrument went through every last test possible. No room for error today.
Now, backstage, the tension was electric. Bands from across the world filled the area — Tundra, TSM, Gaimin Gladiators — all preparing for their turn under the blinding lights. The air buzzed with a mix of nerves and caffeine, roadies darting around with cords and cases, the smell of fresh polish and machine oil thick in the air.
We were among the last to set up. My hands moved on instinct — adjusting the keyboard stand, aligning the pedals, checking sound levels. The clatter of tuning guitars and the distant thump of bass echoed through the massive space. When the organizers finally handed out the performance order, the results made me pause.
Gaimin Gladiators
TSM
Tundra
OG
I exhaled sharply through my nose. "So, we're performing last," I muttered, reading the list again just to be sure. "Call me crazy, but I swear this setup feels rigged."
Johan chuckled from behind his drum set. "You expected any less? The crowd always remembers the finale. They probably want to close the show with a bang."
"Yeah," I said, smirking faintly. "No rest for the weary, huh?"
He just grinned, the kind of grin that said he was feeling the same fire I was.
I checked my watch. Still some time before the opening performance. My nerves were steady, but my thoughts were restless — the kind of quiet before the storm where you either gather yourself... or let the moment consume you.
"I'll be outside," I said to Johan. "Call me when we're up."
He nodded without question. I needed the air — the chill of Stockholm mornings to clear my head before the storm.
Hovet Arena Entrance – 8:30 A.M.
The morning breeze carried a faint bite of cold, brushing against my skin as I stepped out of the backstage area. The city was awake, but distant — muted by the excitement building within the arena walls.
That's when I saw them — Yuyuko-san and the others, making their way through the entrance gates. Their familiar presence immediately loosened the last bit of tension in my chest. I raised a hand and waved.
Kokoro was the first to spot me. Her golden hair bounced as she sprinted across the entrance.
"Onii-chan!" she called out, practically leaping into my arms.
"Easy there, Kokoro," I said with a soft chuckle, catching her as she hugged me tightly. "I'm not going anywhere."
She looked up at me, smiling brightly. Just seeing her like that — unburdened, genuinely happy — was the perfect spark I needed to ground myself. Soon after, the rest of Roselia caught up, each of them giving me their well-wishes before the finals.
Rinko stepped forward last, her expression calm but her eyes holding that quiet warmth she always carried. "Riku... good luck," she said softly.
I smiled, placing a hand on her shoulder. "Thanks. I did promise you I'd win, didn't I?"
She nodded, the faintest curve of a smile appearing before she returned to the others. Then, Yuyuko-san approached, her presence as radiant and reassuring as always. Without a word, she wrapped her arms around me.
"Good luck, Riku-kun," she murmured. "Go out there and give them everything you've got. I expect nothing less."
"Yeah," I replied with a grin. "You can count on it."
Then, as if remembering something, I asked, "By the way, Yuyuko-san... have you heard from Grandfather? He hasn't answered my calls or messages since yesterday."
Her expression shifted slightly — hesitation, maybe even surprise. "Well..."
Before she could finish, a deep, familiar voice cut through the air behind her.
"That's because you don't need to call me, Riku."
I froze.
Yuyuko stepped aside as my grandfather, emerged from the crowd — dressed sharply in a dark violet suit that almost seemed to hum with presence. His silver hair, neatly tied back, gleamed faintly under the arena lights. And behind him stood a young girl, perhaps Rinko's age, with violet hair and eyes that mirrored his own.
"Grandfather...?"
Kyoya smiled faintly. "Did you think I'd miss this? There's no chance I'd pass up the opportunity to see my grandson perform in the finals — and for the first time, no less."
The words hit harder than I expected. I'd forgotten, honestly, that he'd never once been able to attend any of my competitions in person. He'd always been a distant supporter, watching through recordings, too bound by duty to leave the clan's affairs. Yet, here he was.
He stepped closer and placed a hand on my shoulder. "Miku and Richard are watching too, you know," he said quietly. "Wherever they are... they're proud of you, Riku. Of what you've become."
A lump formed in my throat, sharp and heavy. I forced a small laugh to break it apart, but my voice betrayed me with a tremor. "Yeah... thanks, Grandfather."
For a moment, the noise around us faded. It was just us — the air thick with everything unspoken. Pride, loss, love, regret. All of it.
Then, the girl behind him caught my attention again. Her gaze was steady, calm... and yet strangely familiar. A subtle aura — faint, but unmistakable — pulsed around her. It was the same kind of energy that flowed through me whenever I used my lightning.
"By the way," I began slowly, "who's the girl behind you?"
Kyoya turned to her briefly, and she gave him a quiet nod, as if granting permission.
Instead of answering directly, he asked, "Riku, when does your band perform?"
"Last," I replied. "Why?"
"Perfect," he said, his tone suddenly grave. "Ask the staff to arrange a private room. There's something you need to hear — something that must remain between us. It concerns the Nagae family... and you."
That tone — the one he used only when things involved legacy, duty, or danger — immediately straightened my posture. Whatever it was, it wasn't trivial.
"Alright," I said after a pause. "I'll ask the organizers. Give me a minute."
I called Johan, quickly explaining the situation. He understood and said there was an unused conference room near the west corridor. I informed Grandfather, who nodded approvingly. Before leaving, I turned back to Yuyuko and the girls.
"Go ahead without me," I said. "I'll catch up before the performance. Just... something I need to handle first."
They didn't question it. Maybe they could tell by my expression that it wasn't something light.
Private Room – West Corridor, 9:00 A.M.
The moment the door closed behind us, the sound of the crowd outside became a distant hum. Grandfather motioned for me to lock it, and I did without hesitation. The fluorescent lights overhead buzzed faintly as we took our seats — him at the center, the girl to his right, me across from them.
The air felt heavy. Not oppressive, but charged — like the atmosphere before a lightning storm.
I met his eyes. "Alright, Grandfather," I said evenly. "I'll ask again. Who is she... and why do I sense a power similar to mine coming from her?"
Kyoya leaned back slightly, his hands folding over his cane. "Straight to the point," he said, almost amused. "You haven't changed." Then his expression sobered, his eyes meeting mine with quiet gravity.
"Riku," he said finally, his voice lowering to a near whisper. "She is Mafuyu. And she's your half-sister."
For a long moment, I couldn't move.
The words hit harder than any battle, louder than any roar of an audience.
My mind blanked.
"...Ha?"
That was all I could manage.
The girl — Mafuyu — simply looked at me, her expression calm but her violet eyes softening, almost apologetic.
And just like that, the world that had felt perfectly stable a moment ago... shifted completely.
To be continued...