Ichigaya Residence – Warehouse
August 1, 2021 – Sunday – 10:00 A.M.
Third POV
The large television screen illuminated the dim warehouse, its glow reflecting on the faces of Poppin'Party as they sat frozen in disbelief. For the first time, they were seeing the unguarded, unrestrained side of Riku — not the easygoing senpai who guided them through rehearsals, but the celestial being standing among gods and dragons on live television.
Arisa's voice shattered the silence.
"What were they thinking?!?" she shouted, gripping the edge of the couch. "Why would Riku-san and the others show their true selves like that?!"
Saaya frowned, her hands clenched around a mug of coffee she'd long forgotten to drink. "He wouldn't do this lightly... there must be a reason. But still, exposing that side of himself to the world?"
"Maybe senpai has a plan," Rimi murmured, twirling a strand of her hair nervously before biting into a choco coronet. "He's not the kind to act without thinking... right?"
Kasumi's eyes sparkled as she leaned closer to the screen. "Did you see that, O-Tae?! Riku-senpai turned into a dragon! That's so cool!"
Tae tilted her head, her usual calm expression barely changing. "Do you think we can ride on his back?"
"O-Tae!" Arisa nearly fell forward, waving her arms. "This isn't the time for that kind of question!"
Kasumi and Tae blinked at her in unison, as if the seriousness of the situation hadn't quite reached them. The warehouse fell quiet again, save for the faint sound of the televised broadcast and the beating of worried hearts.
Saaya set her mug down, voice low. "If Riku-kun's revealing this... then something big must be coming."
The girls exchanged uneasy glances. None dared to speak the fear forming in their minds — that the world they knew might have just changed forever.
Mitake Residence
At the Mitake household, Afterglow's rehearsal plans had been abruptly abandoned. Their instruments rested silently against the wall, replaced by the flickering image of Riku's dragon form spreading across the screen.
Ran stared blankly, one hand pressed to her forehead. "I... I have no words." She had always known her brother was extraordinary — his calm, his power, the unspoken weight he carried. But seeing him transform before the entire nation was something else entirely.
Moca leaned back, eyes wide but oddly curious. "So your brother's a giant dragon now. That's... kinda metal."
"Metal?!" Tomoe's voice cracked, her hands gripping her drumsticks tightly. "That's beyond metal! That's... goddamn unbelievable!"
Tsugumi turned toward Ran, hesitant. "Ran-chan... is this a good thing or a bad thing?"
Ran didn't answer right away. Her crimson eyes stayed fixed on the TV. "I don't know," she said quietly. "But knowing him... he wouldn't reveal himself unless he was forced to."
A heavy silence lingered among them, thicker than any song they'd ever written.
Purely Promotions – Practice Room
Inside the pastel-toned practice room of Pastel*Palettes, the tension was palpable. The girls were gathered around Maya's tablet, the broadcast playing in real time. Riku's transformation filled the screen — blinding light, the spreading wings of a dragon, and the arrival of the Celestial Families.
Chisato sighed deeply, rubbing her temples. "Onii-sama... what were you thinking?"
Aya's usual cheer was replaced with panic. "Hang in there, Chisato-chan! Maybe he's got this under control!"
"But why now?" Eve asked, brow furrowed as she watched the glowing figures on screen. "Why would Riku-san and the others reveal themselves now of all times?"
Maya blinked, analyzing the scene. "Wait a minute... aside from the Nagae and Hinanawi, most of the Celestial Family members are girls! Isn't that kind of unusual?"
"You're right!" Hina chimed in, equally surprised. "That's like... a magical girls' convention, but real!"
"Perhaps women are more attuned to the flow of mana," Eve mused, placing a finger on her chin. "It could mean that—"
Chisato's sharp look silenced her instantly. "Eve-chan," she said evenly, "if what you're suggesting is true, this could shift the entire societal balance. Magic, gender... influence. Everything."
The weight of that statement hung in the air, heavier than any silence before it. Aya's lips trembled as she spoke softly, "That sounds... scary."
Chisato glanced away, the reflection of her brother's dragon form flickering in her eyes. "The world is changing," she whispered, "and I don't think anyone's ready for it."
Tsurumaki Mansion
Inside the grand Tsurumaki mansion, Hello, Happy World! had gathered in the living room with Youji Tsurumaki — the head of the Tsurumaki Family — watching the live broadcast unfold. Normally, the twins, Kokoro and Shinzo, would have dragged everyone into another chaotic day of laser tag, but today, laughter had no place.
Kokoro's golden eyes, usually bright with boundless energy, were clouded with worry. "Shinzo... do you think onii-chan had something to do with this?"
The entire room froze at the tone of her voice — calm, serious, and steady. Misaki almost dropped her phone. She had never seen Kokoro like this.
Shinzo's gaze remained locked on the screen, her dark yellow eyes narrowing. "No. Knowing him, he wouldn't expose himself unless someone pulled the strings. And I know exactly who's behind this."
"Who?" Hagumi asked, tilting her head.
"That damn gap hag."
Kanon blinked. "Gap... what?"
Youji exhaled slowly. "She means Yakumo Yukari — the Lady of Boundaries. She's been alive for well over 1,700 years."
"Seventeen hundred?!" Misaki nearly fell over. "How is that even possible?!"
"Magic, dear," Youji replied with grim humor. "Magic and manipulation."
Kaoru, who had been quiet until now, crossed her arms and looked at the screen. "Still... I can't shake this feeling. Ani-sama will be heavily involved in this gathering. Fate seems to have drawn him in."
Shinzo clenched her fist, jaw tight. "If that's true, then the world's about to get a taste of what the Celestials really are."
Imai Residence
At the Imai residence, the members of Roselia had gathered for a meeting about the upcoming BLAST Asia Rookie Tour — but plans shifted the moment Lisa's phone buzzed with a message from Rinko: "Turn on the TV."
Minutes later, the four of them sat in stunned silence.
"Is Rinko going to be alright?" Lisa finally asked, her voice trembling.
Sayo adjusted her glasses, still trying to process the sight before her — Riku standing beside Rinko, surrounded by divine light and power. "Konpaku-san and the others are there. They'll protect her. Still..." She exhaled. "I didn't expect Riku-san to bring so many — Sakurada-san, Ayase-san, Wakana-san, even Rongrong-san. All of them."
Yukina's arms were folded, her gaze sharp. "Do you think he'll go as far as to mention... that plan?"
Lisa turned to her, shocked. "You mean—"
"The Harem Plan," Yukina said bluntly.
Ako nearly jumped up from her seat. "Oh my god, you're right! Riku-nii might actually announce it on live TV! This is going to blow up the internet!"
Lisa buried her face in her hands. "He wouldn't... would he?"
Sayo sighed, though even she couldn't deny the possibility. "Knowing Riku-san, he doesn't shy away from chaos."
Yukina closed her eyes, her expression softening. "Let's just hope Rinko survives the aftermath. Public opinion... can be cruel."
Chiyu's Penthouse
High above the Tokyo skyline, the penthouse of RAISE A SUILEN was anything but calm. The walls reverberated as Chiyu slammed her hand on the table, the tablet screen rattling from the impact.
"ARE THEY OUT OF THEIR GODDAMN MINDS?!" she roared, her voice echoing through the spacious room.
Rokka, Reona, and Masuki flinched, exchanging wary glances.
"Is this... bad, Chu²-sama?" Reona asked carefully.
Chiyu pinched the bridge of her nose, exhaling hard. "Not bad. Worse. People fear what they don't understand, and right now, they just saw magic, dragons, and gods — live, unfiltered. Fear spreads faster than any headline."
Masuki gnawed on her fingernail, frowning. "Shit. You're saying this could spiral into something ugly, huh? People panicking, governments reacting..."
Chiyu nodded grimly. "Exactly. And when fear rules, reason dies. The last thing we need is for some idiot politician to call for 'containment measures' against them."
Rokka hugged a pillow to her chest, her voice small. "Do you think Riku-san and the others knew this would happen?"
Chiyu's gaze softened. "Knowing him? He probably did. And he still went through with it anyway." She sighed, leaning back. "That idiot always puts everyone else before himself."
A brief pause. Then, out of nowhere—
"What the—?!" Chiyu spat out a piece of jerky she'd just bitten into. "PAREO! This isn't beef jerky!"
Reona nearly dropped the remote. "I'm very sorry, Chu²-sama! We ran out of beef jerky, so I got turkey jerky instead!"
Chiyu stared at the strip in her hand, blinking. "Turkey...?" She took another cautious bite, chewing thoughtfully. "Hm. Not bad. PAREO, order five more bags of these after the Gathering. This stuff's actually pretty damn good."
Reona sighed in relief. "Right away, Chu²-sama."
Masuki chuckled weakly. "Crisis averted — well, one of them, anyway."
The four fell silent again as the broadcast continued, showing Riku and the Celestial Families standing tall under the blazing sun. None of them spoke, but the same thought crossed their minds — that the world would never look at them, or him, the same way again.
Yashio Residence
Inside the quiet Yashio Residence, soft notes of a violin filled the air. Rui stood by her window, her bow gliding smoothly across the strings. Her music, once clouded by fear and hesitation, now flowed with newfound freedom. Ever since she reconnected with Riku and Rinko, the shadows that once haunted her expression had started to fade.
But the serenity of the morning was suddenly interrupted when the TV in her living room flickered to life—an emergency broadcast taking over all channels. The words "Live coverage of the Celestial Families Gathering at the Imperial Palace" appeared, followed by an image that froze Rui in place.
There—on national television—Riku and several others stood proudly before the world. In one breathtaking moment, he transformed into a radiant white dragon, his wings stretching across the sky like divine light itself.
The bow slipped from Rui's trembling hand. She could barely process what she was seeing. The world she thought she understood had just been turned upside down.
Her phone rang. The familiar ringtone pulled her back to herself, and she quickly picked it up.
"Kurata-san? Is something wrong?" Rui asked softly, her voice steady despite her confusion.
"Rui-san, are you watching the gathering right now?" Mashiro's voice came through, tense but laced with concern.
"I am," Rui answered, her gaze locked on the TV. "What about Kirigaya-san, Futaba-san, and Hiromachi-san?"
"They're here with me," Mashiro replied. "Sorry we didn't invite you—we thought you'd be busy practicing."
Rui smiled faintly, shaking her head. "It's fine, Kurata-san. Though I am curious... what are you four doing there?"
"Well," Mashiro began sheepishly, "Touko-chan and Tsukushi-chan are helping me with my summer homework. Nanami-chan's just hanging out."
Rui sighed, almost amused. "I see. Then I hope you all manage to finish before evening."
Mashiro laughed nervously. "We'll try! Sorry for bothering you, Rui-san. Talk to you later."
When the call ended, Rui placed the phone gently on her table and looked back at the screen—at Riku, standing resolute before the nation.
"Rikkun... be careful," she whispered.
Live House CiRCLE – Café Area
Though CiRCLE itself was closed for renovations, the newly refurbished café buzzed quietly with conversation. Amid the smell of coffee and wood varnish, the four members of Leo/need gathered around a tablet streaming the live broadcast. Miku perched neatly on Ichika's shoulder, her holographic expression unusually tense.
"Riku..." Miku murmured, ears drooping slightly.
Ichika tilted her head. "Miku, is Owner-san going to be alright?"
Miku hesitated, her voice faint. "I don't know, Ichika. Everything now depends on Riku."
The girls fell silent for a moment. On-screen, the Celestial Families entered the Imperial Palace under the watchful eyes of the media. Magic rippled through the air, crackling with power.
Saki broke the silence. "Still... did you all see what Mafuyu-senpai did just now? That was incredible."
Honami nodded. "She really held her ground. I guess that kind of composure runs in the family. Shiho-chan, do Shizuku-senpai and the rest of MORE MORE JUMP knew of this?"
Shiho, who'd been quietly observing, added, "Yeah. Onee-chan and the rest of MORE MORE JUMP already knew. The Nagae Family told them everything after they got endorsed. I think Onee-chan might be... overwhelmed by this, though."
"Overwhelmed?" Saki asked, curious.
Shiho crossed her arms, sighing. "Let's just say... I think onee-chan's developing a crush on owner-san."
"Eh?!" Saki nearly dropped her drink. "Shizuku-senpai?!"
"Oh my~ Looks like Ichika-chan has a rival now~" Honami teased.
Ichika's face turned crimson. "H-Honami! It's not like that!"
Miku giggled, tail flicking mischievously. "Ichika, you like Riku too?"
Ichika groaned in defeat as her friends burst into laughter. Even Miku's holographic cheeks shimmered in a soft shade of pink.
Black Dragon Corporation – MORE MORE JUMP Practice Room
Inside one of the most influential entertainment companies in Japan—a proud enterprise of the Nagae Family—the members of MORE MORE JUMP were gathered in their practice room, eyes glued to the large TV. The usually bright atmosphere was weighed down by awe and disbelief.
"When Kyoya-san said they were youkai after that press conference, I didn't think it went this far," Haruka muttered.
"I know, right?" Airi exclaimed. "When Riku-san turned into a dragon, I nearly screamed!"
"And Mafuyu-senpai was amazing too," Minori added. "Her magic control was flawless!"
They'd only recently learned the truth—that Mafuyu was Riku's half-sister. At first, it had been difficult to believe, but after spending time around the Nagae staff, it all started to make sense.
Meanwhile, Shizuku sat quietly, her eyes fixed on the screen. As Riku shifted from dragon form to human, something stirred in her chest. She could still remember the warmth of his voice, the calm authority he carried even amidst chaos. A faint blush dusted her cheeks—one that didn't go unnoticed.
Miku appeared on her shoulder, poking her cheek. "Shizuku, are you alright?"
"Eh? Miku-chan? I-I'm fine... I think." Shizuku turned away, trying to hide her flustered expression.
"Oh-ho~ Is that so?" Airi teased. "Or is it because Riku-san looked very cool just now?"
Haruka smirked. "Since when did this happen, Shizuku?"
"I got it!" Minori snapped her fingers. "It must've started when Riku-san performed at CiRCLE that one time!"
Shizuku froze. The girls gasped—Minori had guessed it exactly right.
Haruka leaned closer. "Wait... you've liked him since then?"
Shizuku lowered her gaze and nodded. "Actually... it started even earlier than that. About ten years ago."
The room fell silent. Even Miku blinked in surprise.
"Ten years?" Minori echoed. "You mean you've known him that long?"
Shizuku smiled faintly, her eyes drifting toward memory. "Yes. I was seven. I got lost in the city after I got separated from Shii-chan. I was waiting at a park, hoping Shii-chan would come pick me up, but she didn't arrive for hours. I was crying—scared, alone. Then I met Riku-kun."
"Riku-san? Back then?" Haruka asked, disbelief laced in her tone.
"He was looking for his cat," Shizuku continued softly. "But when he saw me crying, he stopped. He asked what was wrong, and when I told him, he just smiled and said he'd help me. I asked why—why he'd bother helping a stranger—and he said..."
Her voice trembled, carrying the faint echo of that day. "He said, 'Because I want to. When I see someone who needs help, I can't look away.'"
Airi and Haruka exchanged glances, their earlier teasing gone.
"He took my hand," Shizuku said, eyes glistening. "And walked me to the nearest police post. Shii-chan was already there, worried sick. Apparently, Riku's cat had wandered into the same area, so it was like fate. Before we parted, I asked if we could meet again. He smiled and said, 'If fate allows it.'"
The room remained silent. Only the faint hum of the air conditioner filled the space.
"I never forgot the warmth of his hand that day," Shizuku whispered. "His kindness, his seriousness... I want to see that again. I want to see his smile...I want to see all of it..."
Airi finally exhaled. "That's... honestly the most Shoujo manga thing I've ever heard, but also—wow."
Minori's hands flew up. "Then what do we do?!"
Haruka frowned, pragmatic as always. "We can't do anything rash. The media's already going wild over the Celestial Families. If they catch wind of you and Riku, it'll explode."
"Haruka's right," Airi said. "For now, keep your feelings quiet. There's a time and place for everything."
Miku nodded, stepping closer to Shizuku. "She's right. For now, focus on your path—but don't give up on what you feel. Riku's story isn't finished yet."
Shizuku looked up at the holographic girl, searching her expression. "You think... there's still a chance? Even though he has Rinko-san?"
Miku smiled faintly. "Let's just say... fate's fond of surprises. Trust me."
The other three nodded in agreement. Whatever came next, they'd stand by their friend—one step at a time.
Arlington, Texas
Inside one of the five-star hotels reserved for the Future World Fes participants, the members of OG gathered in hotel lounge. The room was filled with tension—not because of the competition, but because of what was unfolding across the Pacific. On the huge flat screen TV, the live broadcast from Japan played, showing the Celestial Families revealing their existence to the world. The band sat frozen, the once easygoing air replaced with disbelief and quiet dread.
"...They actually went through with it," Johan muttered, leaning back on the couch as his blue eyes stayed fixed on the screen. He rubbed the back of his neck, exhaling sharply. "Riku, what the hell are you thinking..."
Misha placed a hand on his shoulder. "He wouldn't do this unless it was necessary," he said quietly. "Still, this... this is global."
"I know." Johan reached for his phone, scrolling through his contacts before stopping at Riku Nagae. He hovered there for a moment, thumb hesitating over the call icon. "He won't pick up," he finally murmured, locking the screen with a sigh. "He's probably in the middle of it."
Instead, Johan scrolled again and pressed another name—Youmu.
It rang twice before her calm, composed voice came through. "Johan-san?"
"Youmu," Johan said immediately, standing from the couch. "Good thing you picked up. Tell me—what's happening at the Palace Gate? The world just saw the Celestial Families announce themselves. This isn't small news."
There was a brief pause before Youmu's voice returned, steady as ever. "This is Yukari-sama's plan. She told us beforehand that she had matters under control, but even we have... mixed feelings. Still, knowing her, she's prepared for every possible outcome."
Johan frowned, pacing toward the window overlooking downtown Arlington. "You sound calm for someone caught in the middle of a global crisis."
"I've learned that panicking around Yukari-sama doesn't help anyone," Youmu said with a small sigh. "Besides, Riku-kun trusts her judgment."
"Where are you now?" Johan asked. "Is Riku with you?"
"No, I'm in another chamber with Rinko and the other girls. Riku-kun is with Yuyuko-sama and the rest of the family representatives before the Emperor. I believe the official talks are starting."
Johan turned, eyes snapping back to the tablet. The camera panned across a majestic hall, showing Riku kneeling beside the heads of each Celestial Family before Emperor Naruhito himself. The room was gilded and solemn, filled with centuries of unspoken weight. "Yeah," Johan muttered under his breath, "it's starting all right."
"Please don't worry too much, Johan-san," Youmu added softly. "Whatever happens, Riku-kun won't be alone. And... good luck at the Future World Fes."
"Thanks. I'll take all the luck I can get," Johan replied, hanging up.
As the call ended, he turned to see the other bands—Liquid, Spirit, Evil Geniuses, and several overseas groups—crowding around the hotel lounge TVs, all watching the same live feed. Even the staff were transfixed, murmuring among themselves.
Johan let out a long breath and ran a hand through his hair. "Well... shit," he said quietly, sinking into the couch again. "Hang in there, Riku. You'd better make it out of that palace in one piece."
----------
Imperial Palace – Gathering Hall
Back in Japan, the atmosphere was heavy with reverence and tension. The Imperial Gathering Hall gleamed under soft golden light. Reporters from every major network sat along the edges, forbidden to speak until the Emperor himself permitted. At the center of the vast tatami-floored hall, the Celestial Families stood in two organized lines, each head bowed low before the throne.
The Emperor of Japan, Naruhito, observed them with calm authority. After a measured silence, his voice carried across the hall—steady, commanding, impossible to ignore.
"Before we proceed to questions from the press," he said, "each family shall give their report regarding their domains. Yakumo, you may begin."
Yukari Yakumo stepped forward gracefully, fan half-open in her hand. "Yes, Your Majesty." Her voice was light yet sharp enough to slice through the silence. "According to my reports from Byakuren, the Myouren Temple successfully neutralized all remaining cults across Japan. My own operatives— and some certain syndicate groups under my supervision—assisted in eradicating those outside Kansai."
The word syndicate made several reporters flinch. The Emperor's expression remained unreadable as he turned his gaze toward Byakuren.
"Hijiri. Is this true?"
Byakuren smiled faintly and bowed. "It is, Your Majesty. Yukari mobilized several Yakuza factions under her influence to assist us. Together, we dismantled all hostile cults within five days."
The hall erupted in gasps. Murmurs rippled through the press rows as journalists exchanged stunned glances. The Emperor raised his hand, silencing them immediately. Order returned.
"Were there no casualties?" he asked.
"None, Your Majesty," Byakuren replied smoothly. "They were given the choice to surrender peacefully. Some... required discipline before understanding their options." Her tone carried an almost innocent warmth, but those who knew Byakuren—especially Riku—recognized the quiet menace hidden beneath it.
Naruhito's gaze lingered a moment, then he nodded. "Very well. Ensure your... discipline remains humane."
Byakuren bowed again, her smile unwavering. "Of course, Your Majesty."
The Emperor's eyes shifted to the next representative. "Hakurei. Your report."
Reimu adjusted her haori and stepped forward, voice steady but plain. "Compared to the Yakumo and Hijiri's affairs, mine is a bit minor. I've focused on those defiling or tampering with Kyoto's heritage sites. We've detained several offenders, but the situation is stable."
"Good," Naruhito said. "I grant you full authority to strengthen the wards and security measures across Kyoto's sacred grounds. Use whatever resources you deem necessary."
Reimu bowed deeply. "I understand, Your Majesty."
Next came a calm yet firm voice from the far side of the line. "Your Majesty, if I may—" It was Kasen, her pink hair tied neatly as she presented her report.
"In Kyushu, my students intercepted several illegal Chinese vessels nearing Okinawan waters. They were poaching coral reefs under government denial. My team repelled them and coordinated with China to resolve the dispute before escalation."
A wave of murmurs swept across the hall once more. International incidents like this were usually buried under layers of bureaucracy, yet here was Kasen, describing it plainly before cameras. The Emperor, however, remained unshaken.
"Well done," Naruhito said. "Maintain your diplomatic efforts. Peace is fragile enough without careless provocation."
Kasen bowed. "As you command."
The Emperor then turned toward two figures seated beside each other—Kaguya and Eirin. "Report on the Tohoku region."
Eirin straightened, her tone clinical and confident. "The region continues its slow recovery, Your Majesty. Thanks to the Hinanawi Family's cooperation, the area surrounding the former Fukushima power plant has been fully restored. The Komeiji Family, particularly Utsuho, successfully nullified the radiation. The land is safe again."
A hush spread across the hall. Even the Emperor's brows rose slightly in approval. "Impressive," he said softly. "And your medical projects?"
Kaguya stepped forward next. "We have developed a new prototype for a medicine that can extend human lifespan by one to two years," she said simply. "However, it is still under refinement—approximately forty-five percent complete. By Eirin's projections, it may take another decade to perfect."
For a moment, it felt as if the world had stopped spinning. The journalists stared wide-eyed, pens frozen mid-air. A medicine that could lengthen life—not a legend, but an active research project sanctioned under the Celestial Families' name.
Naruhito took a slow breath, his composure unbroken but his voice carrying a subtle weight. "You realize what kind of attention such a statement will draw, Houraisan."
"We do," Kaguya replied calmly. "Which is why we are keeping the formula sealed within Eientei's archives. Only the Imperial Family and the Celestial Families may access it. This will not reach foreign hands."
Riku stood silently behind Kaguya, watching the Emperor's expression shift between awe and caution. Every revelation today was rewriting centuries of secrecy in a single morning. What was once myth had become fact—on live television.
The hall remained hushed, save for the gentle hum of the cameras and the faint rustle of ceremonial garments. Emperor Naruhito sat composed upon the dais, his calm authority anchoring the sea of tension surrounding the Celestial Families. After the previous reports, all eyes turned once more to him as his clear, deliberate voice echoed through the chamber.
"Do your research at your own pace, Yagokoro, Houraisan. Now—Komeiji," he said, his gaze settling on the woman with violet hair and a floating crimson eye that seemed to observe more than the ordinary. "What is your current situation?"
Satori bowed slightly, her expression as composed as her tone. "The reactors under my supervision remain stable, Your Majesty. Okuu has been handling most of the operations on my behalf, and everything is running within safe parameters." Her third eye pulsed faintly beside her, glowing as if resonating with her restrained emotions. "However... there are certain cases outside that I cannot close. They are—complicated."
The Emperor leaned forward slightly. "How complicated, Komeiji?"
Satori exhaled quietly, folding her hands. "According to witnesses, a young boy vanished before their eyes. They claimed he was swallowed by what they described as a gate of light. Normally, I would dismiss such accounts as delusion, but the boy's parents are desperate. I intend to continue my investigation—slowly, until I find a lead."
The Emperor's face softened at that. His words, though formal, carried the warmth of concern. "Very well. Continue your work as an investigator, but remember—you are also the head of the Department of Energy. Do not neglect your rest."
Satori allowed a small, almost embarrassed smile. "Understood, Your Majesty. And before anyone worries—I'll make sure Koishi and Orin don't try to force me into bedrest again."
A ripple of laughter spread through the gathered families. Even Naruhito smiled faintly. The levity was brief, but it lightened the heavy air for a moment.
"Then let us proceed." The Emperor's gaze shifted next to the elegant woman in white and gold standing tall among the ranks. "Watatsuki. What did the Kicchou leave behind before their withdrawal?"
Yorihime stepped forward, her long silver hair glinting under the light. "Your Majesty, Hokkaido remains stable. Using the resources and infrastructure left behind by the Kicchou, along with assistance from the Kurokoma and Toutetsu clans, my sister Toyohime and I established a region-wide heating system across the island. Every household will have access to warmth through the coming winter months."
The media let out a collective murmur of surprise. Some reporters even smiled. Everyone in Japan knew how brutal Hokkaido's winters could be; such a development was more than a political report—it was a gift to the people.
"Excellent work," Naruhito said warmly. "Your ingenuity honors the spirit of service. You have my full support." He then turned toward another figure among the representatives. "Now—Hinanawi."
Aichi stepped forward, bowing deeply. "Your Majesty, the Hinanawi clan recently completed a survey around Mount Fuji and several other volcanic zones across Japan. During the excavation, we discovered a new type of mineral. However..." His expression turned serious. "The mineral is unstable. Fragile. It detonates with even minimal physical stress."
The room's tension spiked instantly. The reporters exchanged anxious glances, whispering among themselves. The notion of an explosive mineral discovered beneath Japan's sacred mountains could easily cause panic—or obsession.
Riku's eyes flickered briefly toward Aichi. He knew exactly what mineral Aichi referred to—Sakuradite, the same energy source embedded within the Universe Ring Aichi had entrusted to him. Its power was immense, but so were the risks.
The Emperor's tone sharpened slightly. "Were there any casualties during the extraction attempts?"
"None, Your Majesty," Aichi replied firmly. "A few minor injuries, but we found that the mineral can be safely extracted in micro-batches. Controlled handling prevents chain reactions."
A quiet sigh of relief spread through the hall. Even the foreign correspondents lowered their shoulders slightly.
Naruhito turned toward the elder Hinanawi standing behind his son. "Genji, are your son's statements accurate?"
Genji Hinanawi bowed deeply. "They are, Your Majesty. Aichi inherited his sister Tenshi's research notes before she departed. From those studies, we've theorized that the mineral can be refined into a renewable energy substitute. However, completion will require at least two decades of continuous development."
The journalists were in an uproar again, murmuring into their recorders and phones. A new energy source—clean, renewable, and uniquely Japanese—was enough to reshape global economics overnight. For the Emperor, it was both a blessing and a looming responsibility.
"Then I entrust the matter entirely to the Hinanawi," Naruhito declared, his voice echoing with finality. "From this moment forth, only the Hinanawi and their affiliates may mine this mineral. Any unauthorized organization or foreign body found attempting to extract it will face imperial punishment."
The words struck like a gavel, silencing the hall. Even those scheming for profit knew better than to defy an imperial decree. The balance of global power had shifted, and the world's eyes would soon turn toward Japan.
"Now then," the Emperor continued, "let us hear the report from the Saigyouji and Nagae families."
A soft laugh accompanied the gentle rustle of silk as Yuyuko floated forward, her fan covering a smile that hinted at mischief beneath her elegance. "Then allow me to begin, Your Majesty. Tourism in our region has... flourished—perhaps a little too much." Her tone carried playful reproach. "The number of foreign visitors has surged, and many have grown careless. We've received complaints of tourists trespassing into private properties, and most of the culprits," she added with a teasing sigh, "are content creators seeking viral fame."
The reporters flushed in collective embarrassment. Some even lowered their cameras slightly.
"That is indeed concerning," Naruhito said with mild disapproval. "Have you and the Nagae proposed a solution?"
"We've begun coordination already," Yuyuko replied, her smile widening. "Thankfully, Riku-kun has been invaluable. His experience dealing with foreign audiences is... unmatched, since his career as a musician really helps."
Her eyes flicked to Riku, who exhaled quietly before stepping forward. Under the sharp gaze of the cameras, his composure never wavered. The light from the chandeliers reflected faintly off his violet hair as he spoke.
"Your Majesty, as you know, The International will be hosted here in Japan later this year," he began, his tone even, professional. "But the final list of participants has yet to be decided. The Future World Fes in Arlington begins in a few days. Once that concludes, the top twelve bands will receive direct invitations. The remaining eight will qualify through their regional circuits."
He paused for a moment, making sure his words landed clearly before continuing. "Upon confirmation, I'll arrange accommodations for each group—housing, transport, and security—so that no performer faces cultural or logistical barriers during their stay. As for the venues, all selected Live Houses are undergoing renovation. The Group Stage should be ready once October starts."
For a moment, silence hung in the room—not from doubt, but from astonishment. This was not the exuberant, carefree musician the world adored. This was Nagae Riku, the strategist, the organizer, the heir of legacy and responsibility.
Among the crowd, the press exchanged looks of newfound respect. The Emperor smiled faintly, eyes warm. "You have thought several steps ahead. Impressive foresight."
Riku allowed a small, almost modest smile. "I simply want to show the bands the best Japan can offer," he said. "I've been part of this scene for five years now. Every performer I've met—every dreamer who took the stage—they're not just colleagues. They're family."
There was something honest, almost nostalgic, in his voice that resonated deeply with the onlookers. Even the Emperor's usual regal calm softened. "You've done well, Nagae," he said, nodding approvingly. "Your dedication honors not only your name but your nation."
From beyond the cameras, several reporters caught the exchange with quiet awe. The scene of the Emperor smiling with paternal pride toward the scion of the Nagae family would soon circulate through every network—symbolizing unity between tradition and modern culture.
At that moment, far away in Arlington, Johan and the boys of OG watched through their live stream, silently proud. Riku, the man they once jammed with under neon lights, now stood among Japan's greatest names, speaking for an entire generation.
Back in the palace, the Emperor straightened slightly, bringing the assembly to order once again. "Now that all reports have been heard," he announced, his voice resonating with the authority of centuries, "we shall proceed to the next stage."
A subtle tremor of anticipation rippled across the gathered crowd.
"Members of the press," Naruhito continued, "you may now address your questions. Be mindful, however—each question carries the weight of history."
The reporters surged to their feet like a tide restrained by etiquette, cameras flashing as the hall filled with the low hum of microphones being adjusted. The Celestial Families braced themselves, each preparing to navigate a new kind of battlefield—one fought not with blades or magic, but with words, perception, and influence.
As the first question was directed toward Yukari Yakumo about her ties with the Yakuza syndicates, Riku quietly exhaled. He could already feel the tide shifting. This was no longer a simple introduction to the world. It was the dawn of a political and cultural reckoning.
He glanced sideways at Yuyuko, who merely fanned herself and whispered, "Showtime."
A faint smile tugged at his lips. "Yeah," he murmured under his breath. "Showtime."
The press lights flared brighter, and history began to etch its next chapter in real time—one broadcast to every corner of the globe.
And as the Celestial Families prepared their answers, each one knew the truth: from this moment forward, the world would never again be the same.
Riku's POV
The press was a swarm—arms raised, voices overlapping, cameras flashing like the Fourth of July. You'd think they were fighting for the last lifeboat instead of asking questions. Yukari-san just smiled, that faint, knowing curve of her lips, and clapped her hands once. The sound alone was enough to tame the chaos.
"Settle down, everyone," she said, fan resting lightly against her shoulder. "We'll answer your questions—just... calmly, please. You there, at the back. Who are you, which network do you represent, and what's your question?"
Her fan pointed toward a foreign reporter who looked like he hadn't blinked in minutes. His accent gave him away before his badge did—definitely British.
"Thank you, Lady Yakumo," he began, standing straight. "I'm Marco Elric from the BBC News in England. My question is simple: who—and what—are the Celestial Families, truly?"
The hall went quiet. Even the flickering of the cameras seemed to fade. Yukari-san turned her gaze to His Majesty. He gave a single nod.
"You may tell them," the Emperor said. "I'll fill in the rest afterward if needed."
With that, Yukari-san nodded back and stepped forward. Her tone softened, but the air around her carried weight.
"To answer your question, Mr. Elric—the Celestial Families are not merely retainers to the Imperial Household. We are a coalition of supernatural beings entrusted with protecting the land of Japan from threats beyond mortal understanding. Every member of the Celestial Families wields magic—some ancient, some divine—as you all witnessed earlier at the Palace gates."
Her voice was even, graceful, and yet it cut through the hall like a blade. No one dared interrupt. Reporters sat frozen, pens hovering, as if afraid that a single scratch of ink might anger the woman before them.
"The Celestial Families trace our beginnings to the dawn of Japan's recorded history—long before the first millennium," Yukari continued. "It was Empress Genmei herself, in the year 711, who proposed coexistence between the supernatural and humanity. In return for our service to protect the realm, we vowed to teach the royal line the ways of magic and the ancient arts. Since then, we have safeguarded this nation's spirit, altering history quietly from the shadows."
Her words stirred the room. Some reporters exchanged glances, half in disbelief, half in awe. The citizens watching across the nation—likely glued to their televisions—were learning that the country they thought they knew was far older and far more magical than they'd ever imagined.
"At the beginning," Yukari went on, her fan unfolding with a soft snap, "there were only six houses—those who laid the foundation. The Yakumo—my house—stood beside the Matara, Ibaraki, Hinanawi, Komeiji, and Nagae families. Together, we were the First Six."
She paced slowly, her eyes moving from one cluster of cameras to another.
"Five hundred years later, during the late Heian era, the Saigyouji joined our ranks. Two centuries after that, in the early 1300s, the Hijiri and the Hakurei entered as the first human factions. Though mortal, they possess rare gifts—Hijiri's mastery of soul arts grants her unnaturally long life, while the Hakurei shrine maidens carry bloodlines that can stand toe-to-toe with any supernatural beings. Reimu here," she gestured gently toward Reimu, who gave a small nod, "is among their finest."
A few flashes went off. Reimu winced, muttering something about hating cameras. I couldn't help but smirk.
"Then, in the 1500s," Yukari continued, "the Houraisan and Yagokoro joined the fold—pioneers of medicine and advanced technology. And lastly, the Gouyoku Alliance—the Kicchou, Kurokoma, and Toutetsu—took their turn as the rotating seats of the Celestial Council. Every ten years, the seat passed from one clan to another. But as of this year, the Watatsuki have taken the mantle, succeeding them with grace and merit and military might."
She paused, folding her fan shut. The silence that followed was heavy, but not uncomfortable. It was reverent.
"So that," she concluded, "is who we are."
The hall erupted into a low murmur. Reporters whispered among themselves, some typing furiously, others exchanging stunned looks. Every news outlet in the world was about to have a field day.
But Yukari-san wasn't finished. Her gaze sharpened—like a professor about to explain the part of the lesson that actually matters.
"Now, as for what we are..." she said, voice calm yet carrying an undertone of warning. "The truth is far more complex."
She took a slow breath, her aura subtly shifting—so faint, yet enough to make the air hum.
"You see, we Celestial Families are part of the Supernatural. Myself, Yuyuko, Satori, Kasen, and the Nagae all belong to the Youkai faction."
Her words hit the room like a thunderclap. The press, who had just managed to calm down moments ago, broke into another frenzy—reporters shouting, cameras flashing in a blinding storm of light. People had thought Celestial Families might mean descendants of divine blood, guardians of some noble line. But this—this was something else entirely. They weren't descendants. They were the very beings the old myths whispered about.
It didn't take long before realization settled over the crowd. When Yukari-san spoke earlier about the history of the Celestial Families dating back to the 8th century, they suddenly connected the dots. If she'd been there at the founding... then she'd lived for over a thousand years. The shock was almost physical.
Marco from the BBC raised his trembling hand again. "So... you're saying that most of you have lived for over a millennia?"
"Some of us, yes," Yukari-san answered calmly. "Myself, Kasen, Yuyuko, Okina, Eirin, Kaguya, Satori, Yorihime, Toyohime, and Byakuren have all lived for at least that long. The Hinanawi, Hakurei, and Nagae, however, chose the mortal path. They believed that each new generation could surpass the last—and they were right. In this generation, Riku, Aichi, and Reimu represent what we call the Golden Generation."
Her gaze landed on us—me, Aichi, and Reimu. The cameras turned instantly, catching every angle, every small movement. I could practically feel the flashbulbs burning into my retinas.
Reimu crossed her arms and smirked, as if she'd been waiting for that line. Aichi looked humble but proud, while I just exhaled softly and gave a small nod.
Yukari-san smiled faintly, satisfied. "I believe that answers your question, Mr. Elric."
The British reporter nodded, still half in shock.
"Good. Then—next question." Yukari-san's fan lifted toward the left side of the room. "You there."
This time, a reporter from China rose from his seat. His accent was crisp, his tone respectful but probing. "My name is Zhang Wudi, from the Chinese News Network. My question relates to your earlier statements—it connects to the very heart of what you are. What kind of youkai are you, Lady Yakumo?"
Before Yukari-san could answer, a familiar voice rose behind her. "I'll handle this one," said Okina-sama, stepping forward with her usual teasing grin.
She took her place at the center, hands clasped behind her back. "Now, to answer your question—our species, as you call it, is quite diverse. And brace yourselves; this might be what the younger generation calls... a doozy."
A few nervous chuckles rippled through the press. Okina-sama smirked.
"First of all," she began, "the Celestial Families aren't the only supernatural beings walking among humans. There are countless others scattered around the world. Some live in remote regions; others walk among you in plain sight, hidden behind human faces. Wherever there's belief, there's a spark of the supernatural."
She took a slow step forward. "Second, every being who wields power beyond the natural order possesses a unique ability. This ability allows us to connect with mana and shape it into spells. Each ability is an extension of the soul—it defines how we influence reality itself."
She gestured toward Yukari-san with a sly grin. "Let's start with Yukari here. She's what we call a Gap Youkai. Her ability is she is able to manipulate boundaries."
Okina-sama paused for dramatic effect. "In simpler terms, she can rewrite the laws of existence itself. The line between day and night, life and death, dream and reality, truth and falsehood—all those are mere suggestions to her. With that kind of power, she could probably conquer the world if she weren't so—"
Smack!
A small rift opened above Okina-sama's head, and Yukari-san's fan slapped her from another dimension. The crowd gasped as Okina-sama stumbled, rubbing her head.
"Ow! What was that for?!"
Yukari-san's cheeks flushed pink. She didn't answer. Just closed the gap and looked away, pretending to adjust her hat.
Okina-san glared for a second, then sighed. "Fine, fine... too lazy to conquer the world, yes, yes. I stand corrected."
That drew a round of cautious laughter from the reporters, though most were still reeling from what they'd just witnessed—a literal hole in reality.
"Moving on," Okina-sama continued, clearing her throat, "Saigyouji Yuyuko—our gracious hostess of the afterlife. She is a ghost youkai, and she's capable of manipulating death."
That line silenced the room immediately. I could feel the air chill, even from where I stood. People stared at Yuyuko-san with new eyes—the cheerful, soft-spoken woman suddenly carried an aura of quiet dread.
Yuyuko-san simply giggled, raising her hand in a dainty wave. "Now, now, don't look at me like that," she said. "My ability to manipulate death doesn't mean I go around ending lives on a whim. What I can do is influence the conditions under which someone dies. Think of it like... setting a series of events that determine the final outcome."
Her expression softened. "But I rarely ever use it. It's troublesome, and honestly, I much prefer guiding lost souls to the afterlife than meddling with the living."
A reporter hesitated before raising his hand. "Forgive me, Lady Saigyouji, but... when you guide souls—do you decide who goes to heaven or hell?"
Yuyuko-san tilted her head thoughtfully. "Hmm~ Not quite. My role is to guide all souls to the gate of the afterlife, and have them taken to the one who will take them to the afterlife through the Sanzu River. What happens after that—their judgment—is up to someone else entirely."
Her words, though gentle, sent shivers down the room. The idea of death personified in such an elegant form left everyone speechless.
Okina-sama took the cue to continue. "Next, we have Komeiji Satori—aptly named, as she is a Satori Youkai. Her ability is simple to describe yet dangerous in practice: she can read minds."
All heads turned to Satori-san, whose third eye floated serenely beside her. She sighed, rubbing her temples. "And before anyone asks—yes, I can hear all of you. And yes, I'm already getting a headache from your collective panic, so please... calm down."
The press immediately quieted, as if afraid to think too loudly.
Okina-sama chuckled. "Sensitive, isn't she? But effective. Now then, we move on to Kasen."
Kasen-san stepped forward gracefully, her right arm still wrapped in white bandages. Okina's tone softened with respect. "Kasen is an Oni—a remnant of the ancient race that once ruled the mountains. You've all heard of Shuten Douji, haven't you? One of Japan's most feared legends? Kasen is of that lineage."
A collective gasp filled the room. Even the Japanese reporters who'd grown up hearing those tales looked stunned. One of them, a man from Kyushu, stood shakily. "Kasen-sama... I know you are widely respected for your compassion and wisdom. Hearing that you're an Oni... it's—"
Kasen-san smiled gently, cutting him off. "I understand your fear. But there's nothing to worry about."
She raised her bandaged arm. "This seal keeps my Oni power in check. Through discipline and control, I've learned to draw strength from it without losing myself to it. The Oni are not just brutes—they are beings of honor and will."
Her voice was calm yet firm, the kind that could steady a storm. The reporter nodded, visibly reassured.
Okina's grin returned. "Kasen's ability is to guide animals. That means she can communicate with every living creature—be it modern or mythical. In her territory of Kyushu, she often employs these creatures to help maintain order and balance. Over the centuries, she's even developed over five hundred animal-based martial arts styles."
The press murmured in astonishment. Kasen-san bowed humbly, though a small smile betrayed her amusement.
To them, this was a revelation of legends walking in flesh. To me, standing among them—it was just another day at work.
"Next is me. Make no mistake, I am not a youkai. I am a god."
Okina-sama's voice cut through the room like a bell tolling in still air. Every camera froze mid-flash, every whisper died in the reporters' throats. The silence that followed wasn't just disbelief—it was reverence mixed with fear.
Even those who'd grown up believing Japan's myths were just that—myths—stared at her like they were seeing one manifest before them.
Okina-sama exhaled, leaning slightly forward as she rubbed her temple. "I knew this was going to happen," she muttered dryly. "Anyway, I am what you'd call a Secret God. Normally, I don't involve myself with mortals. I prefer watching from behind the veil. But when Yukari dragged me into this little project that she and Empress Genmei concocted centuries ago, I figured—why not make myself useful?"
Her tone carried a kind of timeless fatigue, the kind that only beings who've watched entire dynasties rise and crumble could hold.
"I've kept the records of Japan's hidden history for over a millennium," she continued, her hand tapping the armrest of her wheelchair. "Every event, every anomaly, every secret the public wasn't meant to know. That's my domain. As for my ability—" she raised one hand lazily "—I can create doors on the back of anything. Through those doors, I can access a person's life energy. I can strengthen them... or weaken them, depending on whether they stand as an ally or an obstacle. Mostly though, I use those doors for transport. More convenient than walking, really."
Her eyes flicked toward the cameras, the faintest smirk tugging her lips. "And yes, before anyone asks—this wheelchair is my current vessel. Don't mistake that for weakness."
A shiver went through the room. The air itself seemed to hum, faintly alive. Even through the monitors, the viewers watching across Japan and abroad could feel it—the weight of divinity pressing down, calm but absolute.
Okina-sama clapped her hands once. "Now, before anyone bows or starts praying, let's move on to the next —the Nagae."
Every head turned toward me.
"The Nagae," she continued, "are a species of oarfish youkai. Normally, the appearance of oarfish near coastal waters warns of coming earthquakes. But the Nagae don't wait by the sea. They travel to the danger, crossing land to warn those in harm's way before disaster strikes."
She paused, her eyes sweeping across the crowd. "You all remember the 2011 earthquake, don't you? You ever wonder how, despite its magnitude, casualties were far fewer than expected?"
Gasps rippled through the room as realization dawned.
Okina-sama's smirk returned. "Looks like you've connected the dots."
Murmurs broke out again—disbelief, awe, gratitude. Some of the older reporters were visibly trembling. It wasn't every day that the hidden protectors of Japan stepped into the light.
"Now then," she continued, "the Nagae's ability is called reading the atmosphere. It's not just intuition—it's perception on a divine scale. They can read the very mood and energy of a place and adjust to it instantly. In combat, that means reading an opponent's rhythm, intent, and next move before it happens. Essentially, once a Nagae locks their gaze on you, they can read you like an open book."
Her words hung heavy as every camera focused on me.
"In other words," she added, tone laced with dry humor, "they're some of the most infuriating opponents to fight. I should know—I've been on the receiving end."
Laughter, nervous and hesitant, broke the tension. I smiled slightly, scratching my cheek.
"That's... one way to put it," I admitted. The flashes intensified—every camera trained on me as if they were studying something far beyond human. I'd gotten used to eyes on me when performing on stage, but this? This was different. Reverent. Cautious.
I raised my hand a little. "But that's only one of our abilities. The Nagae also wield lightning, a gift from the Dragon God himself. When that power is combined with our ability to read the atmosphere, we can manipulate the skies. Thunderstorms, rain clouds, typhoons—yes, all of that."
The entire hall erupted into anxious whispers until I quickly held up a hand.
"You don't have to worry," I said firmly. "I can do all that, in every sense of the word—but I won't. I'm content with peace as it is. And if I did something that reckless, Reimu would probably beat me to a pulp."
The tension broke into laughter—genuine this time. Even Reimu rolled her eyes with that faint smirk she gets when she's trying not to laugh.
"The truth is," I added, my tone softening, "we made an oath long ago. All youkai and those involved with the supernatural, no matter how powerful, are forbidden from using their abilities for selfish ends. We live by a code—a set of rules that keeps balance between our world and yours. We'll get to that soon."
That seemed to settle everyone. Shoulders dropped. The room breathed again.
Okina-sama nodded slightly, satisfied. "Thank you, Riku. That about sums it up."
"Okina-sama, may I continue at this point on?"
Okina-sama gave a knowing smile and gestured toward Satori-san, who gently rolled her wheelchair backward. "By all means, Riku. I've had enough of the spotlight for today."
I bowed slightly in thanks before stepping forward, facing the sea of reporters and cameras that still burned with curiosity. "Alright then. I'll be continuing from where Okina-sama left off."
I took a breath and began, keeping my voice clear and even. "Next, we have the Hinanawi. The Hinanawi are what we call Celestials—former humans who transcended mortality and attained a divine state, though not quite of godhood like Okina-sama. They are immortal in body, capable of living indefinitely unless slain. As for their abilities, Celestials can manipulate the earth itself. Earthquakes, landslides, tectonic movement—anything that involves the ground beneath our feet."
That drew a ripple of nervous gasps. The thought that one family could shake the planet at will was... unnerving, to say the least. But most of them quickly recalled our earlier vow—that none of the Celestial Families used their powers for selfish gain. That seemed to calm the unease in the air, though just barely.
Aichi stepped forward beside me, his expression calm but commanding. "Earlier, I mentioned that the Hinanawi discovered a highly unstable mineral," he began. "The reason why only we Hinanawi are authorized to mine it is because of our control over the earth's composition. We can prevent premature detonation and contain its volatile energy. Refinement, however, remains a work in progress."
He reached into his coat and held up a translucent crystal fragment faintly glowing with a pale pink hue. "This mineral, according to my sister, could become a substitute for both oil and nuclear energy—ten times more efficient than either."
His words detonated through the room louder than any quake. The once-orderly press corps erupted into shouts—microphones raised, flashes exploding like a storm. Questions fired from every direction: Will it be sold globally? Will foreign powers attempt to mine it themselves? How will this change world politics?
But before chaos could swallow the hall whole, His Majesty clapped his hands once. A pulse of calm, shimmering energy swept through the air like a soft wind, silencing the room. Magic. Even the cameras seemed to hum quietly in its wake.
Aichi straightened his coat, unshaken. "The full details regarding the mineral will be released next week," he said evenly. "We're still in the refinement phase, and we won't speculate on global trade or energy policy until the process is stabilized. As for its name—my sister has already decided."
He glanced toward the imperial dais. "She named it Sakuradite. For now, the Hinanawi will remain silent on this matter until we're ready."
He stepped back beside me. "Riku, apologies for the interruption."
I gave a faint nod. "No harm done, Aichi. Like he said—wait for the Hinanawi's formal statement next week. But I'll say this much: Sakuradite has the potential to either usher Japan into a new golden age... or ignite the flames of a third world war. Everything depends on how humanity chooses to handle it."
The words settled like lead. Even through the hum of cameras, you could feel the dread ripple through the crowd. The promise of infinite energy... was also the promise of infinite destruction.
I sighed quietly. "Moving on," I said, breaking the silence. "Now, onto the next members—the Hakurei."
Reimu looked up, slightly caught off guard.
"As many of you know, the Hakurei are the only human members of the Celestial Families. For generations, their bloodline has produced shrine maidens capable of combating supernatural threats—Reimu here is their finest descendant."
I paused for a moment, letting the cameras find her.
"Her ability," I continued, "is flight."
A collective blink swept the room. Compared to manipulating the weather or splitting the earth, flight sounded almost underwhelming.
"I can tell you're confused," I said with a faint grin. "It seems simple—but simplicity doesn't mean weakness. Flight for most of us requires constant magical control. There are restrictions on altitude, stability, and duration. But for Reimu? She's free from those limits. She can move in any direction, at any speed, indefinitely. Combine that with her spiritual power and combat skill, and you have someone capable of fighting on equal ground with gods and youkai alike."
Gasps. Then silence. The room had to process the idea that a mere human girl could stand shoulder-to-shoulder with beings thousands of years old. Reimu crossed her arms, trying to look nonchalant, though I caught the faintest smirk tugging at her lips. Hopefully, it wouldn't inflate her ego too much.
"Next," I said, "is Byakuren-sama."
Byakuren-sama gave a serene bow as I gestured toward her.
"She was once human," I continued, "but became a Magician—a type of youkai that sustains life through pure magic. Their longevity depends on the precision and control of their own mana. Byakuren-sama, being both monk and magician, possesses near-perfect mastery."
"Thank you for the introduction, Riku," she said warmly, stepping forward. "As for my ability, it's rather simple—I utilize magic to enhance physical capabilities, both mine and others'. Beyond that, I lead the Myouren Temple, a sanctuary where humans and youkai coexist peacefully. We also, ah, handle funeral rites for the region."
She smiled as if casually promoting a business service.
There was a collective pause—then several reporters almost fell out of their seats. Even Yukari-san facepalmed quietly behind her fan.
Byakuren-sama chuckled nervously and retreated to her place. "A-anyway, thank you for your time," she said sheepishly.
I rubbed the back of my neck. "Well... that's one way to get free publicity. Moving on—Eirin-san?"
Eirin Yagokoro raised a hand, stopping me mid-sentence. "Riku, allow me. Since the next subjects involve myself, Kaguya-sama, and the Watatsuki sisters, it's best if you let me handle it."
I nodded and stepped aside. "Understood."
Eirin-san took a slow step forward, her posture flawless, her tone poised and intellectual. "Thank you. To the members of the press—what I'm about to share will likely sound... unbelievable. But you've already seen enough today to know disbelief has little ground left."
Her eyes glimmered faintly under the hall's light. "We are not of this world. Me, along with Kaguya-sama, and the Watatsuki sisters hail from the Moon. To be specific, we belong to a race known as the Lunarians. Our society resides within the hidden capital of the moon, far beyond the reach of mortal observation."
You could hear the collective intake of breath.
"The Lunarians," she continued, "are beings of divine purity—born from refined spirit rather than mortal flesh. We live long lives, untouched by earthly impurity. However, not all who dwell in heaven stay there forever."
Eirin's voice softened. "Kaguya-sama was once a princess of the Moon. She committed a transgression that forced her exile to Earth. I was her mentor, her guardian—and I chose to accompany her in exile. For centuries, we have lived among humanity in quiet peace, hidden under the veil of history."
The press didn't dare move. The silence was absolute.
"As for my ability," she said finally, "I can manipulate any form of matter or compound—medicine, poison, or even the elixir of life itself. The very essence of chemistry obeys my will. And as for Kaguya-sama, she has the ability to manipulate eternity. Any object affected by Kaguya-sama will retain its shape. Take a fruit for example, which will spoil in a few days. But with Kaguya-sama, it'll retain its freshness no matter how long it was left."
She clasped her hands neatly in front of her. "The Watatsuki sisters—Yorihime and Toyohime—are still residents of the Moon. They serve as generals and envoys of the Lunar Kingdom. Yorihime possesses the ability to call upon the gods themselves through divine invocation, while Toyohime can manipulate the boundaries between the sea and the moon. They are both formidable, and among the most disciplined of our kind."
As Eirin-san stepped back, the enormity of her revelation rippled through the room. The Moon Kingdom—once thought myth—was now part of Japan's living truth. She then quietly returned to her seat and gave me the reins once more.
"Now that you all know what we truly are," I began, my tone calm but firm, "the question now falls to how you will act upon this knowledge. Will it usher in a new era for the world... or mark the beginning of its end? And I will tell you this right now, on behalf of all members of the Celestial Families—make a reckless choice, endanger anyone connected to us, or dare to threaten Japan itself... and I think you already know what the consequences will be."
The silence that followed was absolute. My words weren't loud, but they carried weight—enough that everyone in the hall, and those watching across the world, could feel the gravity behind them. I stepped back, giving way as His Majesty stood and took the floor.
"Like Riku said," His Majesty spoke, his voice composed yet unyielding, "the Celestial Families exist to protect Japan from any threat—foreign or domestic. But let it be clear to all world leaders who are watching this broadcast: they do not exist to conquer or destroy. They exist to coexist. However, should any harm befall this country or those under their care... retaliation will be inevitable. I ask that you understand this truth."
Even the most talkative members of the press said nothing. The air hung heavy with the sheer magnitude of what they'd just learned. Centuries of myth, legend, and whispered rumor had just been laid bare before them, and the weight of that revelation had stunned even the most seasoned journalists. I could tell from their faces that they had thousands of questions burning behind their silence—but none dared to speak.
"I think it's time we take a recess," His Majesty said after a brief pause, glancing at the clock on the far wall. I followed his gaze and realized it was already half past eleven.
The reporters checked their watches as well, surprise flickering across their expressions. None of them had noticed how much time had passed since the conference began.
"I can tell everyone's hungry by now," Yuyuko-san said with her usual carefree smile, waving one hand lightly. "As a gesture of goodwill, allow us to treat all you reporters and cameramen to lunch~"
Her cheerful tone broke through the tension like sunlight through clouds. The press members exchanged glances, visibly relieved, and even some faint laughter escaped among them.
"Very well," His Majesty declared with a nod. "We shall resume at one in the afternoon. For now, this hall is adjourned."
He rose from his throne with quiet dignity, flanked by Yukari-san and Okina-sama, who followed him out. The reporters slowly began to file out as well, many of them still dazed, whispering to each other as they exited the hall. The echo of footsteps faded, leaving only the members of the Celestial Families behind.
Aichi exhaled softly, leaning against one of the marble pillars. "Well... that ended better than I expected."
I shook my head. "We're not out of the woods yet. They've still got plenty of questions, and I can already guess the next one—whether they can learn to use magic themselves."
Reimu folded her arms and gave a curt nod. "Exactly. Now that they know magic is real, people will want a piece of it. It's only a matter of time before someone tries to replicate it."
Kasen-san crossed her arms, her gaze distant. "We've already crossed the point of no return. There's no turning back from this. Might as well see it through to the end." Then she turned toward one person in particular. "Mafuyu, are you alright?"
"I'm fine," Mafuyu replied, though her tone said otherwise. Her shoulders slumped a little as she looked down. "Just feels like I was... a background character through all of that."
I sighed quietly. "Your involvement will come into focus later today. It's just that... our family's reputation will take a hit."
Kaguya tilted her head slightly. "Because of Mafuyu being an illegitimate child, right?"
Her bluntness made Mafuyu flinch a little, but it wasn't out of malice—Kaguya never did have much of a filter.
Yuyuko-san, however, leaned forward with a curious smile. "And to think that Miku-chan and Richard-kun had an illegitimate child of their own. My, my~ Riku-kun, have you found the other one yet?"
I shook my head, frustration evident in my tone. "Not yet. Mafuyu was easy to locate because of her youkai lineage, but the other one... there's nothing. Father may have been a powerful magician, but his traces are impossible to follow. It's like the magic just disappears the moment we try to track it."
Eirin-san adjusted her glasses and stepped forward. "If you're still searching, I can assist. Just provide me a blood sample. I'll search through the database for any genetic matches outside the Nagae line. If the other child exists, we'll find them."
Her offer gave me pause. Part of me didn't want to rely on anyone else for something this personal—but deep down, I knew it was the best chance I had.
"...Alright," I said finally. "We'll do it after everything here settles down. Once the conference is done, I'll give you the sample."
Eirin-san nodded approvingly. "That's reasonable."
Kaguya stretched her arms and yawned softly. "Well, now that the first part's over, how about we get some lunch? We can't let that ghost princess devour everything again."
Her words immediately made everyone turn toward Yuyuko-san, who gave a mock-offended pout.
"Mou~ I won't eat everything..." she said with a mischievous glint in her eyes, "...well... maybe mostly everything."
That earned a collective laugh from all of us. The tension, at least for the moment, was broken.
"Of course you will," I said, shaking my head with a small smile. "Come on. Let's eat before she really does clean the table."
We began walking out of the hall together—Reimu and Aichi quietly discussing the second session, Eirin and Kaguya bickering lightly about lunar cuisine, and Yuyuko-san humming to herself, already daydreaming about dessert. Mafuyu walked beside me, still quiet, her expression uncertain but softening as she listened to the others.
As the sunlight streamed through the tall windows of the palace corridor, I glanced back one last time at the now-empty hall. The seats of the press, the dais where His Majesty had spoken, and the space where we had revealed the truth to the world—all stood in still silence.
This was only the beginning.
Whatever came next—the curiosity, the fear, the hunger for power—I knew it was already set in motion. But for now, in this brief window of calm before the next storm, we would take our reprieve.
"Let's go," I murmured, catching up with the others. "We'll need all our strength for what comes next."
And with that, the members of the Celestial Families left the gathering hall behind, their laughter echoing faintly through the marble corridors as they made their way toward the dining chamber—each one carrying the quiet understanding that peace, however fleeting, was still worth savoring.