BANG! A shockwave reverberated through space, creating everything and everyone in it—including the stars and the people destined to bond with them. In the present day, 2029, the entire universe thrums with power granted by the stars.
I awake, yawning as I stretch out in bed. Of course, I stretch too much and catch a cramp in my calf. "Ow!" I scream in a few moments of pain, trying to hold back tears. Then I hear a familiar voice from downstairs calling my name.
"AKAME! Come down and eat breakfast!"
Must be Mom, I rub my leg.
My calf still aching, I limp down the stairs and reach the bottom to see my mom smiling, already setting down eggs and bacon in front of me. I sit down and start eating without hesitation.
"So, today's the day you're going to bond with a star. Are you ready?" she asks.
Without a moment's pause, I respond, "Of course I am. I'll be stronger than every Guardian—or anything else—in the universe."
She looks me straight in the eyes. "Well, I don't doubt that you'll be strong. Just don't get overconfident."
Overconfident? I have every right to be overconfident. I know I'll be the best. "I'll be ready for whatever comes. Anyway, I've gotta go meet up with Somuchi and Raven for the bonding."
I quickly throw on some shoes to match my fitted graphic tee and loose-fitting cargo pants, then head out. The cool evening air wraps around me as I step outside, a sharp contrast to the warm comfort of the house. The familiar sounds of Starlight City hum around me as I take a moment to appreciate the view. The sunlit skyscrapers shimmer, their glass facades reflecting light like diamonds scattered across the city.
But I don't have time to linger on the sight. I've got bigger things to focus on—like becoming the strongest Guardian the universe has ever seen.
As I walk down the vibrant streets, the sun bathes everything in a golden hue, making the colorful storefronts and lively crowds shimmer. It's one of those days where nothing seems like it could go wrong—unless, of course, you're about to face my unmatched wit.
Lost in my thoughts, I don't pay much attention to the people around me—until I see her.
Lunar Rakumei.
Even saying her name feels heavy, like it carries a whole legacy behind it. The Rakumei clan—one of the first families ever chosen by the Celestials. Everyone's heard of them, their blood said to be closer to starlight than human.
The Rakumei Clan—one of the first families chosen by the Celestials—is legendary. Their people are unmatched in knowledge of Star Bonds, crafting the equipment and channels every Guardian relies on to connect with their stars. Brilliant, disciplined, and powerful, the Rakumei are a force in their own right—but even they don't rival the Spade Clan.
The Spades are born warriors. Their blood burns with Supernova energy, raw and explosive, shaping fighters who can topple entire armies. Zaire Spade, the Ace of Spades, is said to be the strongest Guardian in recorded history—a name spoken across galaxies with awe and fear.
The Twilight Clan, mysterious and calculating, excels in the Neutron Star forms. They bend gravity and light with uncanny precision, keeping records of every Guardian—living or dead—like shadowed archivists watching over the flow of history.
The Vidya Clan embodies the discipline of White Dwarfs: controlled, refined, and strategic. They train tacticians, healers, and guides who ensure that Guardians are never unprepared in times of war.
And then there's the Morningstar Clan—a name whispered almost only in legends. They vanished generations ago, wiped out by ambition, or perhaps by their own forbidden experiments with Dual Star Bonds, attempting to combine two stars into one. Some say the Celestials cursed them for knowing too much. Others claim the clan destroyed itself, fighting amongst themselves over power. No one knows which is true.
Being part of one of these clans says a lot. Lunar isn't just well-known—she's untouchable.
Her silver hair catches the sun like liquid light, tied back in a way that somehow makes her look even more regal. She walks like someone who's used to people watching her—used to being the one everyone else compares themselves to.
And, of course, I can't help myself. A grin creeps up my face.
"Well, look at that," I mutter under my breath, just loud enough for a few people nearby to hear. "Not every day you see a real Rakumei walking among mortals."
Her head turns, eyes sharp, assessing. There's no recognition in them—why would there be? I'm nobody to her. But for a second, it feels like she's measuring me, weighing something behind that icy expression.
I shrug, smirk still in place. "Don't mind me. Just admiring the moon up close."
She frowns slightly, then looks away—dismissive.
That's fine. I'll make her remember me later.
As I walk up the winding path to Celestial Haven, excitement surges through me. The sun hangs high, casting its golden rays over Starlight City, and I can't help but grin. This is it—the moment that could change everything.
As I crest the hill, I see the circular clearing ahead, where destiny awaits. The wildflowers sway gently in the breeze, their vibrant colors a stark contrast against the brilliant blue sky. But what catches my attention first is the duo standing by the altar.
Raven and Somuchi are already there, leaning against the ancient stone carvings that adorn the site. Raven's dark hair is ruffled slightly by the wind, and his gray eyes sparkle with mischief. Typical Raven—always ready for anything, always a bit of a wildcard. Somuchi, meanwhile, stands straight and proud, arms crossed over her chest, radiating that stoic aura that demands respect.
"Yo, Raven, Somuchi!" I call out, my voice confident as ever. "How strong do you think your stars will be? Just so you know, I'll have the greatest star—not just out of the three of us, but everyone in the world."
Somuchi gives me a deadpan look before speaking. "Sure, if overconfidence were a requirement for power, you'd be unstoppable. Unfortunately, that's not how it works."
Raven bursts into laughter, raising his hand to cover his mouth as he leans back, clearly amused.
DING! DING! DING! A bell rings throughout the Celestial Haven, its echo bouncing off the high walls and open sky. I look around and notice that even more people have gathered now. The air buzzes with excitement and tension. My eyes scan the crowd, not looking for anyone in particular, just taking in the scene—the nervous faces, the eager ones, and those trying too hard to seem calm.
Then, I see her again.
Lunar.
She stands out like a comet in a starless sky. Everything about her is sharp—from her posture to the gaze that looks like it could cut through steel. She's not blending in. In fact, she's doing the opposite. Dressed in fitted clothes that cling to her lean, athletic frame, she moves with the confidence of someone who knows she doesn't have to prove anything to anyone. Her silver hair shimmers under the light, making it impossible not to notice her.
I smile again. "Looks like she decided to grace us with her presence." My voice is low, more for myself than anyone else.
I wonder if she's as cold and distant as she seems or if there's something else beneath that icy exterior. Either way, it doesn't matter. Not now. Not when I've got my own star to think about but I'd like to see more of her, hopefully we'll cross paths again soon
With one last glance, I shove my hands in my pockets and move forward, ready for whatever comes next.