Cherreads

Chapter 20 - Chapter 16: The Third Day and a Shocking Reunion Pt. 2

Hinanawi Mansion – Media Room

Aichi's POV

The echo of my footsteps raced through the halls as I sprinted down the marble corridor, clutching my laptop like it was the last bridge to a memory I couldn't afford to lose. My heart was pounding—not from the run, but from the thought that I was about to see him again.

When I finally burst into the media room, I slammed the door open, hurried toward the console, and set the laptop on the low table. My fingers moved on instinct, connecting cables and booting up the mansion's high-resolution projection system. The sleek black screen blinked to life, humming softly as it prepared to cast the feed.

While I waited, I pulled out my phone and tapped the first number that came to mind. The moment it connected, a familiar calm voice greeted me.

"Hello, Aichi-kun?"

"Youmu!" I exhaled, relief and urgency blending into my voice. "Why didn't you tell me that Riku is performing at the Future World Fes?!"

"He didn't tell you?" Youmu's tone carried a trace of surprise. "I swear he said he sent you a message about it two days ago. Didn't you receive it?"

"Wait... he sent me one?" I blinked, quickly opening my messages. I scrolled through the flood of unread notifications, promotions, and rehearsal updates until finally, I spotted one that I had overlooked—'From: Riku.'

A chill passed through me. "I found it..."

"That's good," Youmu said warmly. "But why didn't you read it, Aichi-kun? Did something happen over there in Japan while we were gone?"

I shook my head, even though she couldn't see me. "No. It's just that... there's been a lot on my plate lately, Youmu. Too much, honestly."

"I understand." Her voice softened. "But I must remind you—rest is important, Aichi-kun. You don't want to end up like Riku-kun."

Her words froze me mid-motion. "...Eh? What happened to him?"

"He nearly tired himself out before the performance," she admitted with a sigh. "His hand injury flared up again. He's pushing himself too much, as usual. You two are both still young—even if you are a Celestial yourself, your body still has its limits."

I bit my lip. "I... understand. I'll be careful. Can you—can you tell him I said good luck?"

"Of course," she replied kindly. "I'm sure he'll be happy to hear that. Ah, I need to go now—the second set is about to begin."

"Alright. Take care, Youmu."

The call ended, leaving me alone in the quiet hum of the room. The projection system had finished loading, the vast display before me now glowing with a brilliant interface—the live feed of the Future World Fes.

I let out a slow breath. "I made it in time..."

Just then, the door burst open.

"Aichi-kun!"

I turned to see Kotori, her hair slightly disheveled from running, followed closely by Honoka and Umi, both catching their breath.

"Kotori... you caught up."

"Eli-chan and the others stayed to clean the dance room," she said, wiping sweat from her forehead. "Why did you run off all of a sudden?"

I turned back toward the glowing screen, eyes fixed on the stage being shown from halfway across the world. "Riku's match is about to start."

"Riku-kun?" Kotori's voice trembled slightly. "You mean Riku-kun is performing? But... I thought he retired? Didn't he tell us that himself?"

"I know," I murmured, my voice low. "I didn't expect him to perform either."

Honoka tilted her head, visibly confused. "Umm... sorry, but who's Riku?"

I didn't answer right away. My eyes stayed locked on the feed as the camera panned toward a familiar figure standing on the far side of the stage. Under the dazzling lights, his violet hair shimmered, his posture steady yet calm, his expression carrying that same unshakable quiet resolve I once knew better than anyone.

I lifted my hand and pointed to the screen. "There. The one with the violet hair and the white jacket. That's Nagae Riku—heir of the Nagae family."

A silence hung in the room. I could barely hear myself breathe. My chest tightened as the realization sank in—he wasn't just performing. He was back.

"...Riku," I whispered, my voice trembling slightly. "I see... you're doing this for her. Thank you."

Umi stepped forward, noticing the moisture gathering in my eyes. "Aichi... are you okay? You're about to cry."

I wiped my face quickly and gave a faint smile. "I'm fine, Umi. I just... finally understand why Kaguya-san sent me this link. And now... I know what I need to do."

Umi nodded softly. "I'm glad, Aichi. But... why did you run out on us without saying anything?"

"The match was starting," I said simply. "I couldn't miss it—not this one."

As I finished explaining, the rest of μ's began arriving one by one. Eli, Nozomi, Nico, Hanayo, Maki, and Rin entered the room, curiosity written all over their faces.

Nozomi placed her hands on her hips, smiling knowingly. "So, let me get this straight—you ran out because your friend's match was starting, and you didn't want to miss it?"

"Yes," I replied firmly.

Nico crossed her arms. "And this friend of yours is a professional musician? You could've told us that, you know!"

I shrugged lightly. "You never asked."

Hanayo looked positively starstruck. "To think that you're friends with one of the greatest musicians in the world!"

That line caught everyone off guard—but none more than Eli, who smiled faintly. "To think... I'd see him again."

Nozomi tilted her head. "You know him, Elichi?"

Eli nodded. "I met him last year in Russia. I went there to cheer for my cousin—she's also a professional musician. She introduced me to Riku, and we became friends almost instantly. He's very polite, approachable... but there's this quiet strength about him too."

Maki's expression softened. "Yeah... quiet."

Rin blinked. "Maki-chan, you know him too?"

Maki hesitated before replying, her tone nostalgic. "When I was little, my parents took me to a piano competition. I saw a boy there—playing with this... effortless grace. Every note was perfect, like he was telling a story without words. I never forgot that performance."

Her eyes drifted toward the screen. "It was him. That was Riku."

My lips curved into a bittersweet smile. "So you were there too... Me and my sister were in the audience that day as well."

Maki looked at me in surprise. "You were?"

I nodded. "Yeah. I didn't know it then, but that performance changed something in him—and in me."

Before any of us could say more, Kotori suddenly gasped. "Everyone, look! Riku-kun's band is up next!"

All eyes turned toward the massive projection. The stage lights dimmed, and the cheering crowd fell into a wave of anticipation. The camera panned slowly across the band members preparing their instruments—each one focused, poised.

But one thing immediately stood out.

"...Wait," I muttered. "Riku's not playing the guitar or the keyboard?"

Eli leaned closer to the screen. "By the looks of it, he's the vocalist tonight. Aichi-kun, have you ever heard him sing?"

I shook my head. "No. Back when he was still active, he mostly played guitar or keys. I've never heard his voice take the lead before."

Maki's eyes widened slightly. "He also plays guitar?"

I nodded, a faint smile forming. "My sister taught him the basics when he was still a kid. It took him two and a half years to master it completely. She used to say he had an ear that could mirror emotion itself."

Nozomi chuckled. "A talent like that doesn't fade, huh?"

"Never," I said softly. "Anyway, let's watch. We might learn something for your next live."

The girls gathered closer as the lights on the screen dimmed completely, leaving only a single spotlight centered on Riku. He stepped forward slowly, his hand brushing against the mic stand before gently lifting the microphone free. For a moment, he stood in silence, his violet hair catching the faint reflection of the stage glow.

Then, with that calm voice of his—the same one that could silence storms—he spoke.

"Before we begin... I'd like to apologize if this song may be a little uncomfortable for some. But nonetheless..." He smiled faintly, eyes lowering as if in remembrance. "Yoru ni Kakeru."

My breath hitched.

The room fell utterly silent, save for the first delicate chords echoing from the speakers.

The opening notes were gentle, melancholic—carrying the weight of years, of grief and hope intertwined. And then, when Riku began to sing...

It was as if the entire world stilled.

Yoru ni Kakeru

(By: YOASOBI – Covered by: mafumafu)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eEZZmUha_ww

Shizumu you ni tokete yuku you ni

Futari dake no sora ga hirogaru yoru ni

"Sayonara" dakedatta

Sonohitokoto de subetega wakatta

Hi ga shizumi dashita sorato kimi no sugata

Fensu goshi ni kasanatte ita

Hajimete atta hikara

Bokunokokoro no subeteo ubatta

Dokoka hakanaikuuki o matou kimi wa

Samishii me o shitetanda

Itsu datte chikkutakku to

Naru sekai de nando datte sa

Fureru kokoro nai kotoba urusai koe ni

Namida ga koboresou demo

Arikitari na yorokobi kitto futari nara mitsukerareru

Sawagashii hibi ni waraenai kimi ni

Omoitsuku kagiri mabushii asu o

Akenai yoru ni ochite yuku mae ni

Boku no te o tsukande hora

Wasurete shimaitakute tojikometa hibi mo

Dakishimeta nukumori de tokasu kara

Kowakunai yo itsuka hi ga noboru made

Futari de iyou

Kimi ni shika mienai

Nanika o mitsumeru kimi ga kirai da

Mitorete iru ka no you na koi suru you na

Sonna kao ga kirai da

Shinjiteitai kedo shinjirenai koto

Sonna no dou shita tte kitto

Korekara datte ikutsu mo ate

Sono tanbi okotte naiteiku no

Sore demo kitto itsuka wa kitto bokura wa kitto

Wakari aeru sa shinjiteru yo

Mou iya datte tsukareta ndatte

Gamushara ni sashinobeta boku no te o furiharau kimi

Mou iya da tte tsukareta yo nante

 Hontou wa boku mo iitai nda

Ah hora mata chikkutakku to

Naru sekai de nando datte sa

Kimi no tame ni yooi shita kotoba dore mo todokanai

"Owari ni shitai" da nante sa

Tsurarete kotoba ni shita toki

Kimi wa hajimete waratta

Sawagashii hibi ni waraenaku natte ita

Boku no me ni utsuru kimi wa kirei da

Akenai yoru ni koboreta namida mo

Kimi no egao ni tokete iku

Kawaranai hibi ni naiteita boku o

Kimi wa yasashiku owari e to sasou

Shizumu you ni tokete yuku you ni

Shimi tsuita kiri ga hareru

Wasurete shimaitakute tojikometa hibi ni

Sashinobete kureta kimi no te o toru

Suzushii kaze ga sora o oyogu you ni ima fukinukete yuku

Tsunaida te o hanasanaide yo

Futari-ima , yoru ni kakedashite iku

After the song ended, the entire arena erupted into thunderous applause, a mix of awe and confusion rippling through the crowd. The sound of the cheers echoed faintly from the speakers in the media room, but I could tell—even from here—that the emotions in that stadium were chaotic and raw. Some audience members were standing, shouting their admiration; others sat silently, heads lowered, trying to process what they had just witnessed.

I turned my gaze back to the screen, my eyes immediately finding Riku. He stood at the center of the stage, head slightly bowed, eyes closed, the mic still in his hand. His expression was calm—too calm. That kind of calm that comes after pouring everything out, when there's nothing left to give. I felt my chest tighten as I whispered to myself, "Riku... you've gone and done it now..."

Nico broke the silence first, her tone cutting through the room like a blade. "Oi, Aichi. Your friend there just pulled something risky. That song—'Yoru ni Kakeru,' right? That's a suicide song."

The room froze. The girls' eyes widened, some even gasping softly. The weight of Nico's words hung heavily in the air. She wasn't wrong. A song like that—on a stage as massive as the Future World Fes—was a gamble few would ever dare to take.

Umi spoke next, her brows furrowing in disbelief. "Why would he do that? Is he trying to destroy his career?"

I could feel their confusion, their concern—and maybe even their judgment—but I understood. I knew what Riku was doing. He wasn't trying to self-destruct. He was trying to say something.

"I think Riku is aware of the risk, Umi. His band... OG, they're known for taking bold moves like this. Every one of them knows what they're doing up there. And besides..." I took a breath, forcing a small, bittersweet smile. "My sister wrote that song, after all."

That revelation hit them like a wave. Maki's eyes went wide. "Wait, wait, wait. Doesn't that make it even worse? He's performing a song that your sister wrote—and, well, considering what it's about..."

Her voice trailed off, hesitant. She didn't want to say the word death outright, but I knew she was thinking it.

"True, Nee-san did write the lyrics. But Riku was the one who composed the melody. Every song they made together—it's always been that way. She wrote the words, and he gave them life through music."

Nozomi leaned forward, her tone thoughtful yet soft. "If both of them created it together, then... doesn't that make it more personal? More of a message, rather than something dark?"

"Exactly. It's not about glorifying pain—it's about showing that there was pain... and how they overcame it. That's what Riku's trying to convey."

Silence followed. For a moment, everyone simply stared at the screen, where Riku and the others were taking a bow. The audience's reaction was still a storm—half admiration, half confusion. But I could see it in his eyes, even from that distance through a screen—he looked free.

Taking a deep breath, I reached for my phone. The girls looked puzzled. Hanayo tilted her head slightly. "Um, Aichi-senpai... what are you doing?"

I couldn't help but smile. "Isn't it obvious? I'm voting."

Nico blinked. "Voting? For what—"

"For who wins this set. Riku's already up by one. If his band wins this round, they're heading straight to the finals." I tapped my screen, casting my vote with a steady hand. It was strange, really—how something as simple as pressing a button could carry so much weight.

As I leaned back, watching the results window flicker onscreen, I felt a faint tremor in my chest—a mix of pride and unease. I had no idea how the judges or the public would interpret Riku's performance. But one thing I knew for sure—he never did anything without reason.

My eyes lingered on the image of him on the screen, his violet hair catching the stage light. I clenched my phone tightly and whispered under my breath, "I hope you get through this... Riku."

He was walking a dangerous line between art and self-destruction—but that was Riku. Always fearless, always honest, and always ready to bear the storm alone.

Back in Stockholm

Riku's POV

The stage lights dimmed to a soft twilight hue, the roar of the arena settling into a low hum that trembled through the floor beneath my boots. The voting period had begun. On the massive screen above, the Future World Fes insignia pulsed in rhythm with the crowd's collective heartbeat. I could feel the weight of it—every cheer, every whisper, every second ticking down toward the verdict.

Ammar leaned back against his amp, sweat still glistening on his temples from the last song. "You think we'll get this one?" he asked quietly, voice low enough that only we could hear.

I folded my arms, still catching my breath. "I don't know," I admitted. "We've done our part. Now it's their turn to decide. If it goes to a third set... we'll deal with it when we get there."

bzm exhaled sharply, half a laugh escaping. "We really took a big gamble tonight."

"A big risk, yeah," I said, glancing at him. "But if the message got through—if people understood what we were trying to say—then it's worth it. You can't succeed without taking risks."

That was the truth of it. You don't play it safe when you want to reach hearts. You jump off the ledge and hope the fall means something.

The waiting stretched. Seconds crawled by, heavy and long. The camera drones drifted overhead, capturing every uncertain glance and twitch of the hand. Around us, the air carried that quiet before a storm—the breath everyone takes before something irreversible.

And then, movement at the edge of the stage. Two figures emerged from the shadows of the tech pit—syndereN and SUNSfan, the hosts of our series. The crowd erupted again, thousands of voices rising in layered anticipation. One of them held the result envelope, the bright Future World Fes seal glinting beneath the spotlights.

"Ladies and gentlemen," SUNSfan's voice boomed through the speakers, smooth but trembling with energy. "Voting is now officially closed!"

The screens flickered. Numbers and percentages flashed briefly before disappearing behind the official logo.

"I have the results," he continued, holding the envelope high. "One of these two bands will advance to the Grand Finals... while the other will fall to the lower bracket, where they'll fight tomorrow for their tournament lives."

syndereN stepped forward, pausing long enough to draw every eye. "The outcome of this set," he said slowly, "is a first in Future World Fes history."

The entire hall seemed to stop breathing. I could hear the distant whir of the cameras, the soft buzz of stage lights overhead. Ammar's fingers tapped restlessly against his thigh. Even I felt my pulse climbing into my throat.

"A unanimous..." syndereN continued, looking between the cards in his hand and the crowd before him, "...one hundred percent of the votes goes to the winning band."

The reaction was instantaneous—gasps, shouts, disbelief echoing from every section of the arena. Even my own breath caught. One hundred percent? That had never happened before. Not once in all the years I'd competed.

SUNSfan shot his partner a look, both men nodding before turning back to face us and the opposing band, Thunder Awaken. His grin broke through the tension. "And the winner... of the second set..." He drew it out, milking every heartbeat. "...is—"

A pause that felt eternal.

"—OG!!!"

The arena exploded. The crowd's roar surged like a tidal wave, rolling across the stage and crashing into us. Blue and white lights danced across the ceiling as our logo appeared on every screen. For a second, I didn't move. Just stood there, eyes closed, letting the noise wash over me. The others froze too—stunned, overwhelmed, almost too shocked to celebrate.

I sighed quietly. "Oi," I said, turning toward them with a faint grin. "Why are you idiots just standing there? Thunder's right there waiting."

That snapped them out of it. Laughter, a few curses, and then we moved. One by one, we crossed the stage toward Thunder Awaken, meeting them halfway under the lights. Hands clasped, pats on the shoulder, mutual respect passing in unspoken gestures. They'd played their hearts out tonight—every note, every beat. No one left anything behind.

When I reached Pakasz, their frontman, he didn't hesitate. We hugged, tight and brief, the way rivals do when they both understand what it cost to get here.

"No te desanimes, amigo," I murmured. "Buena suerte mañana."

(Don't be disheartened, my friend. Good luck tomorrow.)

He smiled tiredly. "Gracias y felicidades."

(Thank you, and congratulations.)

We pulled apart, a simple nod sealing the moment before parting ways. And then the lights shifted again—center stage, bright white. I knew what that meant.

Tsunami, the field interviewer, was walking toward me with his mic, grinning from ear to ear. "Thank you, Sheever," he said into the headset. "I'm here on stage with one of OG's veterans—give it up for Iku!"

The cheers rose again. I stepped forward, offering a polite bow before meeting his gaze.

"Congratulations on the win!" he said.

"Thank you," I replied simply, voice steady despite the exhaustion creeping in. "Really appreciate it."

He chuckled. "Come on, man. You're too calm. Celebrate a little! That was historic!"

"Not yet," I said, shaking my head. "Job's not done. We still have the finals."

"Fair point." He smirked, pacing a little as the crowd quieted. "So—OG in the Grand Finals. First time it's going to be a four-way match, which has never been done before. Thoughts?"

"There's always a first for everything," I said, allowing a faint grin. "As long as we play to our strengths, keep innovating, and try some weird, crazy stuff—we'll be fine."

He laughed. "Classic Iku. Always the mad scientist." His tone softened as he leaned closer. "This'll be your fifth Future World Fes grand final. You're one away from tying with RAMZES, Solo, and no[o]ne—all legends with five titles. You've already got four. How does that feel?"

I paused, letting the weight of the question settle. The crowd leaned in. "It'd mean a lot," I said quietly. "To stand alongside them. But honestly? I'm more focused on winning this one for the boys. It's their first grand final. They've worked too hard for me to make it about records."

Tsunami nodded, eyes glinting with respect. "Spoken like a true captain. Any words for the OG fans here and those watching worldwide?"

I drew a slow breath. My voice carried clearer than I expected. "Thank you," I said simply. "Thank you for sticking with us this year. People doubted the new blood we brought in—said they couldn't carry the legacy. And tonight, they proved everyone wrong."

The screens cut to my teammates, their faces half-disbelieving, half-grinning. The crowd cheered louder.

"I know it sucks that Misha couldn't be here," I continued. "I had to take his place, and it wasn't easy stepping back into that spotlight. But this isn't just for me. It's for Misha. For Chu. And for the promise I made to a friend a month ago."

A murmur rippled through the crowd, curiosity sparking in the silence that followed. I didn't elaborate. I didn't need to. That promise wasn't theirs to understand.

"They didn't make it back in Amsterdam," I said, my voice lowering. "But they got this far now. Their first grand final. So I'll make sure it counts. I promise all of you—OG won't let you down."

The applause that followed hit like thunder, sweeping across the hall and rising into something close to reverence. For a fleeting second, I let myself feel it—the pride, the relief, the exhaustion. Then I caught Tsunami's grin as he raised the mic again.

"Well said. Thank you for your time, Iku," he said. "You better get some rest—finals await. Congratulations again, and see you on the big stage."

We shook hands, the lights dimming behind us as I stepped offstage. The noise followed me, echoing faintly through the corridors leading back to the waiting room. The air there was cooler, quieter. The adrenaline drained, leaving only the steady hum of the vending machine and the sound of the boys dropping into chairs, finally letting themselves relax.

We'd done it. Again.

But even as I sat down, towel over my shoulders, one thought pressed quietly in my chest.

One more set. One more step. And then... we finish this.

OG's Waiting Room

Riku's POV

The moment I stepped back into the waiting room, the air felt heavy with fatigue and satisfaction. The boys were sprawled across the couches, their instruments set aside, the adrenaline that once fueled them now replaced by pure exhaustion. For a few seconds, I just stood there—watching the quiet aftermath of what we'd poured out on stage. Even for veterans like us, that performance took everything.

With a faint exhale, I sank into the nearest seat, running a hand through my hair. My chest still carried the echoes of the crowd's cheers, yet the silence here felt like a balm.

Then, the door opened.

"Youmu" came in, balancing a small bag in her hands and her expression bright despite the exhaustion that lingered around her eyes.

"Everyone, good work out there!" she announced warmly. "Have some of these. They're freshly made from the hotel."

She placed the bag on the table and started laying out the contents—sandwiches, pastries, small boxed meals. It smelled like comfort, the kind that only hits you after the chaos fades.

The guys perked up almost immediately, dragging themselves upright with groans and half-laughs.

"Finally, some real food," Artem muttered, grabbing a plate.

I took a couple of sandwiches, offering a quiet nod to Youmu before returning to my seat. As the others filled the room with the small sounds of eating and chatter, she turned to me.

"Congratulations on making it to the finals, Riku-kun," she said softly. "I'm sure Tenshi will be proud of you."

A faint smile tugged at my lips. "Yeah... she will."

For a fleeting moment, my mind drifted inward—to that familiar space deep within me.

Inside Riku's Mindscape

Tenshi's voice erupted like lightning across the tranquil void of my thoughts.

"You bet your ass I'm proud of him!!!" she shouted with gleeful pride. "He did my songs justice! Now go out there and kick their asses in the finals, Riku!!!"

I couldn't help but chuckle at her enthusiasm before letting the vision fade.

Back to Reality

"You know," I began, leaning back slightly, "did Aichi really say that? I heard he's been busy lately."

Youmu nodded. "He did. Apparently, Kaguya-sama was the one who showed it to him. And from what he told me, he's been managing a group of school idols at his school."

I raised an eyebrow. "School idols? Never heard of them."

"That's because you're too focused on the band side of the world," she teased. "You don't pay attention to the idol scene."

I let out a small laugh. "Guess that's fair. Still, it's hard to imagine Aichi managing something like that."

"People surprise you," she said with a shrug. "Anyway, I'm not sure if Chisato and the rest of PasuPare know about it—"

A knock cut her off. Three gentle taps against the door.

Knock. Knock. Knock.

"I'll get it," I said, standing up.

As I opened the door, I was met with familiar faces—Yukina-san and the rest of Roselia. Their presence immediately shifted the atmosphere. Yukina-san's expression was calm yet serious, her usual commanding presence tempered with concern.

"Girls," I greeted, stepping aside. "What brings you here?"

Yukina-san met my eyes directly. "Riku-san... we have a problem."

For a heartbeat, the room went still. The chatter behind me quieted, though the others didn't seem to notice the gravity of her tone. I exhaled slowly, masking the sudden edge that crept into my chest.

"I see," I replied evenly. "We'll talk later once we're back at the hotel. Right now, me and the boys need some rest."

Yukina-san nodded, understanding. "Of course. We just wanted to inform you first."

The rest of Roselia offered warm smiles, their voices filled with genuine congratulations.

"Congratulations on reaching the finals," Sayo-san said, folding her arms with a small smile. "That performance... it was something else."

"Truly inspiring," Lisa-san added, her eyes glimmering with admiration.

"Thank you," I said, the words quiet but sincere.

They left soon after, their footsteps fading down the hall. The moment the door closed, the silence settled again—gentle, peaceful, and fleeting.

I glanced at my bandmates. They were back to eating, their laughter slowly filling the room once more. A small smile returned to my lips as I leaned back, sandwich still in hand.

Just for tonight, we could breathe.

And at the Finals... we'd face the world again.

----------

Hakugyoku Hotel Stockholm Branch – Roselia's Room

8:30 P.M.

3rd POV

The third day of the Future World Fes came to an end beneath the silver glow of the Stockholm skyline. From the top floor of the Hakugyoku Hotel, the city looked alive yet quiet—its rhythm slowed, but never still. The day's battles had concluded, the cheers now fading into memory.

Two bands had secured their places in the grand finals, while one had fallen short.

Fnatic 2–1 T1.

Tundra 2–0 Gaimin Gladiators.

From what Riku had heard from Johan after OG's own match, Fnatic took the first set with a roaring hard rock performance—fast, aggressive, unapologetically loud. T1, never the kind to go quietly, countered with a sharp, melodic showcase that tied the score. Then came the tiebreaker: a drum-off between Fnatic's Jabz and T1's Kuku.

Jabz won—barely. One slip from Kuku, one missed cue, and the rhythm was broken. T1's run ended there, their sound fading into the tournament's archives. Fnatic advanced, set to face TSM the next day.

Meanwhile, Tundra's victory over Gaimin was decisive—a 2–0 sweep that made a statement. The Gladiators had been overwhelmed by Tundra's precision, their coordination almost mechanical.

The updated brackets painted tomorrow's schedule clearly:

BetBoom vs beastcoast

TSM vs Fnatic

BetBoom or beastcoast vs Gaimin Gladiators and

TSM or Fnatic vs Thunder Awaken

The lower bracket path, while still alive, was brutal. Two performances in one day could break even the most seasoned group—both physically and mentally. That was why so many feared it: the music world's equivalent of walking through fire.

Inside Roselia's suite, however, the tension had shifted from the stage to something quieter, more personal.

Riku sat beside Yukina and the others, the faint hum of the city below bleeding through the tall glass windows. Tea sat untouched on the table between them. Whatever Yukina was about to say carried weight—he could feel it in the silence.

"Alright," Riku said finally, breaking it. "Let's continue where we left off. What's the problem you mentioned earlier?"

Yukina hesitated, her expression grave. "One of the bands we personally invited..." Her words trailed for a heartbeat. "They've disbanded."

The room froze.

Riku and the others looked at her in disbelief. Disbandments weren't rare in the industry—but when it came out of nowhere, it hit differently. An injury or scheduling conflict was something they could adapt to. But a band simply ceasing to exist? That left nothing to rebuild.

"...Why though?" Riku asked quietly. "Any idea?"

Lisa exhaled, crossing her arms. "From what I saw in the message Yukina received, the disbandment came out of nowhere. Their leader didn't give a reason—just left, without a word."

"That's rough," Riku murmured, leaning back. "If it's like that, there's nothing we can do about it." His voice hardened slightly, though his tone stayed measured. "Let's focus on finding a replacement. Someone who can fill that stage and make it their own..." He paused, the thought forming almost immediately. "And I might know who."

The girls exchanged glances.

Sayo spoke first. "Who are you recommending?"

Riku looked up, the faintest trace of a grin tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Raise A Suilen."

For a moment, silence again. Even Yukina blinked.

Lisa tilted her head. "Are you sure about that, Riku? They haven't even debuted officially yet."

"They haven't," he agreed, his voice calm but firm. "But I've seen them rehearse. I know what they're capable of. They've got raw drive—and that spark you can't fake." He turned to Rinko and Ako. "Can you two get in touch with Chu² and her band?"

Both nodded, rising to leave without hesitation.

As the door closed behind them, Yukina regarded Riku carefully. "You really think they'll accept?"

He nodded without hesitation. "If there's one thing I know about Chu², it's that she doesn't back down from a challenge. She's smart enough to see opportunity when it's right in front of her."

A few minutes later, the door opened again. Rinko and Ako returned—with Chu² and her band in tow.

The tiny pink-haired producer strode in like she owned the room, her confidence unmistakable.

"Oi, Iku," she said, planting her hands on her hips. "You called? Let's get straight to it."

Riku smirked faintly. "Straight to the point, huh? Fine. One of the bands set to perform in Roselia's live suddenly disbanded. There's no backup lined up."

Chu²'s eyes narrowed, her tone sharpening. "So you're saying you want us to fill that spot. What's the catch?"

Rei began to speak. "Chu², maybe we should—"

Chu² waved her off. "I know what I'm doing, LAYER. Just answer the question, Iku. What's the catch?"

Riku leaned forward, elbows on his knees. "If I tell you my plan, then you'll have to agree first."

Chu²'s smirk grew. "Alright. What's the plan?"

So he told her—everything. About what happened last month, about Slacks and the PBC's intentions, and the implications of what came next. He spoke plainly but precisely, the kind of tone that made everyone in the room listen.

When he finished, Chu²'s expression had changed—eyes gleaming, a grin curling across her face.

"You son of a bitch," she said, laughing under her breath. "We're in."

Rokka blinked. "Wait, we are?"

Chu² turned toward her bandmates, fire in her voice. "What better debut than performing with TI legends watching us? Rokka, Rei, Masuki, Reona—we start training the moment we get back to Japan! This is the kind of shot we don't screw up!"

Her words echoed like a rallying cry. Then, as she made her way to the door, she stopped halfway, glancing back.

"Oh, right—one more thing." Her gaze softened, just slightly. "Iku, when are you going to tell them about Tenshi?"

Riku's expression didn't waver. "So you've told them about her."

"Just the basics," Chu² admitted. "They want to hear the rest from you."

He nodded once. "Tell the girls to meet me on the rooftop at ten."

"Sure, whatever." She flashed him a knowing grin and disappeared with her bandmates in tow.

When the door closed, the room fell silent again. Roselia's members were still watching Riku, a mix of curiosity and concern in their eyes.

"Well, that worked out better than expected." Riku leaned back in his chair, arms crossing loosely as the tension in the room began to settle.

Yukina let out a small sigh, half in relief, half in disbelief. "Honestly, I thought she was going to demand something outrageous in return."

Riku smirked faintly. "You underestimate her. Chu²'s unpredictable, sure, but she's sharp. I taught her most of what she knows about the business side of the music world." His eyes glinted with a teasing sort of pride. "Still, you girls better keep up—those kids might just steal your show."

Yukina's glare could have frozen the air. "They can try. But rest assured, Roselia won't be overshadowed that easily."

"Competition already?" Riku rose from his seat, stretching his arms over his head. "I like that."

He started toward the door, the light from the hallway cutting a soft line across the carpet. "Well, since there's nothing left to discuss, I need to head out. Johan and I still have a few things to finalize before the grand finals."

Sayo tilted her head. "You already have a plan for that?"

"Had it done weeks ago, back in Portugal," he replied, glancing over his shoulder with a half-smile. "We just need a few tweaks and light practice tomorrow. Then we'll be ready. But for now—sleep sounds good. There's a lot to deal with tomorrow..." His voice lowered. "Especially regarding her."

The weight of that single word—her—hung in the air. No one needed to ask who he meant.

"I'll go with you," Rinko said softly, standing up. "If that's alright."

Riku blinked, then gave a small nod. "Sure. At least I'll have someone to talk to on the way."

The two left together, their footsteps quiet against the carpet. The door closed behind them, leaving the rest of Roselia in a faint haze of curiosity.

Lisa broke the silence first. "Is it just me, or are those two closer than we thought?"

Ako tilted her head, her expression innocent. "Are they? I thought that was normal."

Sayo chuckled lightly, though her tone carried a note of thoughtfulness. "Shirokane-san seems to care about Riku-san more than before. Maybe what happened yesterday changed something between them." Her gaze shifted to Yukina. "Minato-san? You've been quiet."

Yukina blinked, caught off guard by her name. She'd been staring toward the door long after it closed, her mind elsewhere. "Ah... it's nothing," she said quickly. "Just thinking about a few things."

Lisa leaned in slightly, concern softening her expression. "If something's bothering you, Yukina, you know you can tell us."

Yukina managed a small smile. "I will," she murmured, though her tone carried the kind of promise meant more to end a conversation than start one.

Outside in the corridor, the air felt cooler—less burdened by words. Riku and Rinko walked side by side, the hum of distant city life drifting faintly through the glass windows that lined the hall.

"Is it alright for you to leave them like that?" Riku asked, glancing at her.

"I'm sure," she said gently, clasping her hands in front of her. "I just... wanted to spend a little more time with you."

He chuckled under his breath. "Really now? You're getting bolder by the day, Rinko."

A faint blush dusted her cheeks, though she didn't deny it. They reached the junction that split toward their rooms. "If you don't mind," Riku said, "can you remind the others to meet on the rooftop at ten? I already told Chu², but knowing her, she'll forget halfway through a snack run."

Rinko nodded. "Of course. I'll make sure they're all there."

"Thanks. I'll see you later."

She gave him a small, polite smile and turned back toward Roselia's suite, her soft steps fading into the distance. For a moment, Riku stood alone in the quiet hallway—until he felt a faint distortion in the air. A tingle at the back of his neck.

He sighed. "You can come out now... Koishi."

A puff of pale energy rippled near the wall, and out popped a green-haired girl with a pout. "You're no fun," she whined.

Koishi threw a few light punches at his shoulder, each one landing harmlessly, more playful than serious. "You never let me sneak up on you anymore!"

"You'll have to do better than that," Riku said dryly, smirking. "You can't surprise me with the same trick twice."

Koishi puffed her cheeks in defeat. "Hmph!"

Then, in a tone that carried a hint of curiosity, Riku added, "By the way—can you tell your sister to come to the rooftop at ten? There's something I need her to see."

Koishi's pout immediately flipped into a grin. "Okay~!"

And just like that, she vanished—fading into the space around her like a whisper slipping through a dream.

Riku stood there a moment longer, the hallway once again empty. He let out a long breath and rolled his shoulders, fatigue settling in now that the adrenaline of the day had worn off.

"...Always full of surprises," he muttered to himself. Then, with a faint smirk tugging at his lips, he turned toward his room.

The door clicked shut behind him, sealing away the noise of the world outside. For the first time in hours, the only sound that filled the air was the low rhythm of his own breathing—steady, deliberate, calm before the storm of the coming day.

Hakugyoku Hotel - Stockholm Branch - Rooftop

9:55 P.M.

Riku's POV

The rooftop air was cold and crisp, carrying the tang of the Baltic Sea and the faint hum of Stockholm nightlife below. The city lights stretched to the horizon, yet the roof itself was eerily quiet—a perfect stage for the kind of meeting I had in mind. After hours of hammering out our set list with Johan, our plans for the finals finally locked in, I'd summoned everyone here. Now we just waited.

Yuyuko-san lounged on a bench as if she were at a picnic, delicate fingers plucking takoyaki from a paper tray, Youmu seated beside her like a loyal shadow. Remi stood a little apart with Flan, her crimson eyes reflecting the moonlight like gemstones. Near the door, Sakuya-san and Meiling-san stood alert, hands clasped behind their backs in quiet readiness. Ran leaned against the guardrail, nine golden tails swaying lazily in the breeze, fox ears flicking at every sound. Koishi was already here, prowling the perimeter with Orin and Okuu, her presence felt more than seen until she decided to reveal herself.

The whole scene was a strange blend of casual and warlike—half tea party, half war council—and everyone felt it.

Remi's voice cut through the stillness.

"Riku-boy," she said, her tone a velvet threat, "why drag us all the way up here? You'd better have a good explanation, or I'll leave you to Flan tomorrow. All day."

At that, Flan smiled brightly—far too brightly. I didn't even want to imagine what kind of "playtime" her sister had in mind. Finals or no finals, that was not happening.

"You'll get your explanation once everyone's here," I said, folding my arms. "And without proof, you wouldn't believe me anyway."

Remi smirked, conceding the point. "True enough. But why gather all of us?"

"Because," I replied, glancing around at the assembled faces, "I want eyes everywhere tonight. If something happens while we're distracted, we'll regret it later."

Her smile thinned into something almost approving. "Fair. With Sakuya, Meiling, and the Komeiji's attendants here, we—ah. It looks like they're here."

The rooftop door opened, spilling light across the dark surface. Rinko emerged first, followed by the other girls. Ran stepped forward immediately, tilting her head toward me.

"You called us, nii-san?"

"Yeah. Sorry for the short notice."

"It's fine." Ran's eyes twitched a bit. "Though there is someone looking for you, but..."

She trailed off as a commotion erupted by the doorway.

"Tae-san—!" came a panicked voice.

I looked up just in time to see Tae-san practically pounce on Udongein, arms wrapped tight around the startled moon rabbit.

"Let go of me!" Udongein yelped, trying to pry Tae off.

"Just let me touch your ears," Tae whined. "I just want to feel them—"

"NOOOO!"

Eirin-san appeared behind them, looking more exasperated than alarmed. "It seems we've found you, Riku," she said, already reaching into her coat. In one fluid motion, she produced a small device, pressed something, and flicked a dart at Tae's neck.

"What did you do?!" Arisa-san gasped, stepping forward.

"I used a tranquilizer dart," Eirin-san said matter-of-factly, checking her apprentice. "Her grip on Udongein was too strong to break otherwise. Don't worry, the effect lasts only a minute."

I pinched the bridge of my nose. "That's... good to know. What brings you here, though?"

"I came to examine your hand. You'll need it at full capacity for the finals."

"Fair enough. Do it while we're waiting for Satori-san."

Eirin-san nodded and guided me a few steps aside, her hands clinical and precise as she prodded my fingers, flexed my joints, and murmured her assessments. Within minutes she gave me a curt nod—the kind of nod that meant you're clear. Relief washed through me. The keytar would be no problem.

Behind us, Tae-san started stirring awake. The instant her eyes opened and landed on Udongein, she made another lunge, but this time Arisa-san and Saaya-san intercepted her, dragging her back like bouncers. I almost laughed at the absurdity if the stakes weren't so high.

Then the rooftop door swung open again. Satori stepped out, her expression as unreadable as ever, her third eye glowing faintly beneath her hair.

"You called me?" she said flatly. "Koishi said you needed something from me."

"Now that everyone's here," I said, straightening, "we can begin. But first, introductions. Some of you don't know each other."

Ran-san picked up the cue immediately. She stepped forward, tails fanning out like a peacock's display.

"I am Yakumo Ran," she said coolly. "Younger sister of the Yakumo matriarch. I've been teaching Riku danmaku techniques since he was young."

Kasumi's hand shot up like an overeager student.

"Ran-san! Question! Are those tails real?"

Me and Remi both facepalmed. Yuyuko-san only murmured, "Ara~," as Arisa-san smacked Kasumi lightly on the back of the head and muttered an apology to Ran.

"It's fine," Ran-san said with a small chuckle. "Yes, they're real. Want to touch one?"

The girls hesitated for a heartbeat, then a few crept closer, fingers brushing the golden fur. Their gasps of delight were almost childlike. "Fluffiest thing ever," one whispered.

Meiling-san was next, standing tall with a soldier's pride.

"I'm Hong Meiling, head of security for the Scarlet Family and Riku-sama's combat instructor. A pleasure."

Then the Komeiji sisters stepped forward.

"Satori Komeiji," said Satori-san, bowing slightly. "This is my sister, Koishi. And these are my pets, Okuu and Orin."

Koishi waved enthusiastically. "Komeiji Koishi! I'm Onee-chan's little sister!"

Orin gave a playful flick of her tail. "Kaenbyou Rin! Nice to meet you all, nya~ Call me Orin if you like!"

Okuu saluted lazily. "Reiuji Utsuho. You can call me Okuu."

Finally, Eirin-san and Udongein introduced themselves.

"I'm Yagokoro Eirin, matriarch of the Yagokoro Family," Eirin said. "This is my apprentice."

"Inaba Udongein Reisen!" Udongein declared with a crisp salute. "An honor to meet you!"

Kanon-san raised a tentative hand. "Riku-kun... are they youkai as well?"

I nodded. "Ran-san's a kyuubi. Satori-san and Koishi are satori youkai."

Sayo-san 's brows furrowed. "Satori... so they can read minds?"

"Satori-san can," I said, "but Koishi's a bit different. Okuu's a yatagarasu, and Orin's a kasha."

Hina-san tilted her head. "What about Eirin and Reisen?"

"Both of them are Lunarian."

"Lunarian?" they all echoed, minus the Gensokyo natives.

"Basically they're people from the moon," I explained. "You know the story of Kaguya-hime, right?"

They nodded.

Sayo's eyes went wide. "Wait. Don't tell me—"

"You guessed right," Eirin-san said smoothly. "Kaguya-hime is real. And the Yagokoro have served her for centuries. Udongein here is a moon rabbit, charged with her protection."

A ripple of disbelief moved through the girls—shock, wonder, the shattering of a childhood myth right before their eyes. I gave them a moment to absorb it, then drew a slow breath.

"Now that we're all acquainted," I said, voice hardening, "let's move to the real reason we're here. Satori-san, do you have a spell that can send multiple people into a single mindscape?"

The question made Satori tilt her head, interest flickering briefly in her third eye.

"I do," she said. "But it leaves the body vulnerable. We'd need guards."

Remi smirk returned, sharp as a blade. "I see now. Sakuya and Meiling will stand watch."

Ran-san 's ears pricked. "I'll stay as well. You'll need a strong barrier to mask the ritual."

"Me and Udongein will also remain," Eirin-san added. "We'll reinforce the barrier."

Satori-san nodded. "Agreed. Okuu, Orin—you two stay and watch our bodies."

"Roger that, Satori-sama!" Orin and Okuu chorused.

Koishi raised a hand. "I'll stay too! Feels like I'm needed here."

Satori-san walked over, placing a gentle kiss on her sister's forehead. "Very well. But no trouble, understood?"

Koishi beamed and nodded.

Ran began to weave shimmering threads of light between her fingers, her barrier taking shape around us. The air grew heavier, denser, humming with hidden power. Satori reached into her sleeve and produced a spell card—a deep red rectangle edged in gold that pulsed like a heartbeat.

"Now then," she murmured, eyes closing. "Get ready."

The threads of her third eye began to glow, coiling outward in delicate red cords.

"Mind Sign: Complete Mind Dive."

The cords snapped outward like living veins, linking from her to each of us—Yuyuko, Youmu, Remi, Flandre, the band girls, and finally to me. The moment the last cord connected to my temple, a shock of warmth ran through my skull, and the rooftop dissolved around me.

Darkness surged. Weightlessness followed.

Then consciousness slipped from my grasp like water through my fingers.

Riku's Mindscape

Third POV

At first, there was only blankness—a quiet, colorless void suspended between thought and being. Then, as if someone had drawn back a veil, light broke through. A brilliant blue sky unfurled above them, and warmth touched their skin. The group stirred one by one, blinking against the sunlight. Beneath their feet stretched an endless expanse of jade-green grass that swayed with the rhythm of a tranquil breeze.

Yuyuko's familiar voice chimed gently through the silence.

"Ara~ you're all awake!"

The girls turned and found her seated calmly on a floating rock, legs crossed, Youmu standing beside her with a hand resting on her katana. Remilia and Flandre were there too, their crimson eyes reflecting the daylight, and Satori stood a few paces away, silent and composed, her third eye glowing faintly.

Sayo rubbed her eyes, disoriented. "Yuyuko-san... where are we?"

"You're all inside Riku-kun's mindscape," Yuyuko explained with a lilting tone, as though discussing something mundane. "To put it simply, you are now inside Riku-kun's mind."

Gasps spread through the group. The revelation hit them like a wave.

Lisa blinked in disbelief. "Wait—inside his mind? How is that even possible?"

Youmu answered without hesitation. "Because of Satori-sama's Spell Card. She connected our consciousness to Riku-kun's, allowing us to enter his mental domain. Our physical bodies remain unconscious outside."

Yuyuko added, "Don't worry. The others who stayed behind will watch over us. Nothing will happen to your bodies."

Arisa steadied herself, still taking it all in. "I see... Then our goal is to find Riku-san, correct?"

Remilia's smirk curved as she lifted a hand. "No need. Look behind you."

The girls turned—and their breath caught.

Towering in the distance stood a grand Japanese palace, its sweeping roofs glimmering under the sunlight, built upon a bed of floating islets that shimmered like polished jade. Azure lightning occasionally flickered along its pillars, dancing like living veins of power.

Rinko whispered, awestruck, "Incredible... What is this place?"

"That," Remilia said with measured reverence, "is the Dragon Palace—the heart of Riku-boy's power. Within those halls lies the source of his lightning, the domain where his strength is born and refined."

Her expression darkened slightly. "And speaking of which, Yuyuko—deploy a barrier. Now."

Yuyuko tilted her head playfully. "Ara~? Whatever for?"

"Because," Remilia murmured, narrowing her eyes toward the horizon, "I can feel a battle brewing."

Without further hesitation, Yuyuko waved her fan. A translucent dome of ethereal light expanded around them, shimmering like ripples on a pond.

"Yuyuko-san!" Himari exclaimed. "What's happening?"

Yuyuko smiled, her tone calm but her eyes sharp. "You're about to witness a danmaku battle—firsthand."

A heartbeat later—

BOOM!

The world quaked. A flash of light tore through the sky, followed by a deep, echoing roar. The girls shielded their eyes from the shockwave, their hair whipping in the wind.

"There!" Flandre shouted, pointing toward the source of the explosion. "I see onii-san!"

Their eyes followed her finger—and there he was.

Riku hovered in the open sky, his entire form wreathed in arcs of blue-white lightning. His naginata gleamed, cutting through the air as massive keystones—each the size of a small house—hurtled toward him. Every swing of his blade was clean, precise, effortless. Each impact shattered stone into harmless fragments that disintegrated into light.

Yuyuko's eyes narrowed as she recognized the pattern of the assault. "Those keystones... there's only one person who uses that kind of danmaku."

Remilia crossed her arms, her expression sharpening. "Then it seems this will be more entertaining than I expected."

From below, the girls could only stare in awe.

"That's Riku-kun?" Saaya murmured, eyes wide. "He's... flying."

Eve clasped her hands together, her voice brimming with admiration. "The way he cuts through those boulders—it's so precise! They don't even crumble! Amazing, Riku-san!"

Above, Riku's eyes narrowed as he readied himself for the next wave. The air crackled. He spun his naginata in a wide arc, gathering raw lightning into its blade until it gleamed like a blade forged of living thunder. Energy rippled outward, forming a coiling shape around him.

"Well," Riku murmured under his breath, a faint smile tugging at his lips, "what do you know... a new spell card."

He raised his weapon high. "Let's try it. Dragon Sign: Flow of the Thunder Dragon!"

The lightning surged into form—an immense dragon of pure electricity, its serpentine body spiraling around him. With a mighty swing, Riku dove through the incoming barrage, carving through keystones in a seamless, fluid dance. His movements were no longer merely combat—they were art. Every slash carried rhythm, every step an unbroken flow, as if he were moving with the current of a divine river.

By the time the final keystone shattered, a white lightning dragon spiraled behind him, coiling majestically through the sky before dispersing into light.

From below, the girls stood speechless.

Arisa could barely form words. "His movements... they're like..."

"Like he's dancing," Kaoru finished dreamily, her eyes sparkling. "So elegant~ Ah! Hakanai!"

Sayo watched intently, her analytical mind noting every motion. "Not a single wasted step. His breathing steady, his focus unwavering... incredible."

As their awe echoed among them, Riku slowly exhaled, letting his naginata rest on his shoulder.

"Well," he muttered, smiling faintly, "that should do it. I think they've seen enough."

Descending from the sky, he landed softly before them, the ground crackling faintly where his boots touched. The storm that had surrounded him moments ago dissipated into calm. Yuyuko lowered the barrier, and the girls rushed closer, their excitement barely contained.

Riku turned toward them with his usual calm smile. "So... welcome to my mind."

Yuyuko's grin widened. "Impressive work, Riku-kun. It seems you've created a new Spell Card."

"Yeah," he said, brushing a strand of hair from his face. "Though it came as a surprise even to me." His expression shifted to one of focus. "Now then... I'll show you the real reason I brought you here."

He lifted his gaze skyward. "You can come down now!"

The sky above shimmered, and from the clouds, a single floating keystone began its descent. It moved slowly, almost ceremoniously, the air humming with energy as it approached. A silhouette stood atop it—small, graceful, and familiar to a few who watched in stunned silence.

When the keystone finally touched the ground, the figure stepped forward and leapt lightly onto the grass. A young girl landed before them, her blue hair cascading like silk ribbons, her serene smile radiating confidence and warmth.

Yuyuko's fan froze mid-motion, her expression softening with recognition. "When I saw Riku-kun destroying those keystones, I thought it couldn't be... But to see it's you..."

Remilia chuckled darkly, her crimson eyes glinting with delight. "Kukukuku... now this is getting interesting."

Satori's lips curved into a knowing smile. "Now I understand why Riku asked for my presence."

Ran's eyes widened in disbelief. "No way... how are you here?"

Chisato's voice trembled. "Impossible..."

Chiyu's gaze wavered, torn between disbelief and relief. "Is that really you?"

And then—

Kokoro's breath hitched. Her eyes filled with tears before she could even speak. "Onee-chan!!!"

She ran forward and threw her arms around the girl, sobbing openly. It was the first time any of them had seen Kokoro cry. The embrace was fierce, desperate, overflowing with emotion that words could never convey.

Rinko stepped forward slowly, her own eyes shimmering. "Is that you... Tenshi?"

The blue-haired girl smiled warmly, placing one hand atop Kokoro's head before flashing a playful "V" sign toward Rinko.

"V!" she said brightly, her grin radiant and familiar—exactly as they remembered her.

The atmosphere shifted; the breeze seemed to still, as if the mindscape itself acknowledged her presence. For a moment, time stood still—every gaze fixed on Tenshi, the girl thought to be gone, now standing before them, alive, whole, and smiling.

And as the silence deepened, the Dragon Palace loomed in the background, its gates glowing faintly as if welcoming its lost princess home.

The storm had passed, but something far greater had just begun.

To be Continued...

Spell Cards used this Chapter: 3

Mind Sign: "Complete Mind Dive"

Spell Type: Mental Spell Card

Target: AOE

Danmaku Type: N/A

Element: N/A

User: Komeiji Satori

Thunder Sign: "Elekiter Dragon Palace"

Spell Type: Offensive Spell Card

Target: AOE

Danmaku Type: Energy Bullet

Element: Wood

User: Nagae Riku

Dragon Sign: "Flow of the Thunder Dragon"

Spell Type: Offensive Spell Card

Target: AOE

Danmaku Type: Slash Bullet

Element: Wood, Water, Moon

User: Nagae Riku

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