En route to Hanasakigawa...
May 23, 2021 – Monday – 7:30 A.M.
Riku's POV
Yesterday had been... a lot.
After wrapping up the last preparations at CiRCLE, I left the girls in Aya and Hatate's care before heading to the airport with Dendi to meet the people he'd invited to Japan. I was expecting maybe two, three guests tops. Instead—he brought eight.
Aside from Puppey, who was currently in bootcamp with the new Team Secret squad, Dendi had somehow gathered the old Na'Vi trio—XBOCT, Artstyle, and LighTofHeaveN—as well as the entire Nigma Galaxy lineup. When I saw them, all I could do was stare for a good few seconds.
"Kuro," I asked, crossing my arms, "why are you here? Shouldn't you be grinding for the Division One return?"
He gave a tired grin. "There was a schedule shift in the PBC," he said. "So we're taking this as a short break before the main run. PBC starts June 10—enough time to prep and breathe."
Can't really argue with that logic.
Dendi also mentioned that scouts from various esports and entertainment organizations would be attending Roselia's upcoming Live. Not just locals either—Evil Geniuses and Sentinels from North America, FaZe Clan and Team Vitality from Western Europe, G2 from Eastern Europe, and JDG and Weibo Agency from China. Heavy names. It meant the Live wasn't just a concert anymore—it was an event that would echo globally.
I ended up touring the guys around Tokyo afterward. Helped them find a hotel near the Live House, secured the rooms at a discount, and gave each of them a ticket to the Tuesday performance. The looks on their faces when they realized I'd be hosting the event myself—pure excitement.
By the time I returned home, it was already evening. I found Keine-sensei in the living room, teaching Tina. Youmu explained that grandfather had officially hired Keine-sensei as Tina's private tutor.
I was a little skeptical at first. "Sensei, doesn't that mess with your normal schedule?"
She shook her head, calm as ever. "Not at all. I've made some adjustments. Besides, Tina's a fast learner—it's... refreshing."
I left them to continue, heading upstairs. Once I hit the bed, I was out like a light. When I opened my eyes again, the clock said 6 A.M.—probably the latest I'd ever woken up. Usually, I was up before dawn for the walk to school, but with how things were moving, I figured I could cheat a little today... and use that.
Which brings us to now.
The engine's low hum filled the air as I steered toward Hanasakigawa. Mafuyu sat quietly beside me, hands folded neatly over her lap, eyes fixed on the morning skyline flashing past the tinted windows. Today was her first day at Hanasakigawa Academy. Even though she tried to keep a composed expression, I could sense the tension in her shoulders.
Yuyuko-san had already handled the enrollment paperwork, so things were running smoothly on that end. Still, nerves were normal—it was a big step for her.
"You nervous, Mafuyu?" I asked, glancing her way.
"I'm fine, nii-san," she said softly, though her voice carried a slight tremor. "I'm just... recollecting myself."
I gave a small nod and focused back on the road. The vehicle wasn't exactly subtle.
This wasn't just any car—it was a REZVANI Vengeance RIKU Custom. My personal monster. One of three cars I'd bought with my own money. Price tag: around three hundred grand. Worth every yen.
The best part? It could withstand a bomb blast. Literally. I'd tested it myself once... until grandfather nearly lost his voice yelling at me. After that, I went further—upgraded the armor plating, tuned the core systems, even reinforced the frame so it could withstand danmaku barrages.
It's massive—definitely not built for Japan's narrow streets—but REZVANI cars were never about subtlety. They were statements. Mine cost me an extra $250,000 in modifications, a reward to myself after my TI8 win. The first big purchase after my... phase.
As I drove, a sudden blur of motion caught my eye—five figures sprinting down the sidewalk. I slowed down instinctively. Recognized the rhythm of their movement before I even saw the faces.
Poppin'Party.
Kasumi was leading the charge, with Tae right behind her, both of them clearly panicking. I rolled down the window, amused.
"Morning! Why are you five running like your lives depend on it?"
Kasumi looked over, cheeks flushed. "Riku-san! We... overslept!" She pointed accusingly at Tae, who just laughed awkwardly.
I chuckled. "That explains it."
Seeing them struggling with their bags and instruments, I figured it'd be cruel to just watch. "Hop in. I'll drop you off."
Rimi hesitated. "A-Are you sure, Riku-san? Won't it be a bother?"
"It's fine," I said. "I rarely use this beast anyway. Might as well give it a proper warm-up."
The girls exchanged excited glances before piling into the car. Arisa claimed the front passenger seat, and the rest squeezed into the back. The cabin fell silent for a second as they noticed Mafuyu seated beside me.
"Ah, Mafuyu-san's with you!" Kasumi said with her usual brightness. "Are you two heading to school too?"
"Yeah," I replied. "Today's her first day at Hanasakigawa."
That got their attention immediately.
"Ehh? Really?" Saaya leaned forward from the backseat, smiling. "That's great! Maybe she'll be in our year!"
"Riku-san," Arisa chimed in curiously, "since Mafuyu-san's transferring, do you know which class she'll be in?"
"All I can say is that she's a second-year like you five," I said, eyes still on the road. "But which class... that's up to Yuyuko-san."
Mafuyu gave a quiet nod, looking a bit relieved. With that, I continued driving as we head to school.
Hanasakigawa Girls High School – Entrance
7:45 A.M.
3rd POV
After fifteen minutes of driving, they finally reached Hanasakigawa. The moment Riku parked by the front gate, he stepped out and immediately began activating his car's security system—layer upon layer of coded locks and biometric safeguards lighting up the console. The sound of the mechanisms humming awake made a few students nearby turn their heads in curiosity.
Arisa crossed her arms, tilting her head. "Isn't this a bit... overkill?"
Riku didn't even glance up. "I'm cautious when it comes to things I own," he said flatly, typing in the final passcode before the armored panels sealed with a low hiss. "Experience taught me that."
The group exchanged glances, half impressed, half bewildered. Once the car was safely locked, Riku turned back to Kasumi and the rest of Poppin'Party.
"You girls better hurry. Homeroom starts in ten. I'll take Mafuyu to the principal's office," he said.
Kasumi gave a cheerful salute. "Got it! See you later, Riku-san! Bye, Mafuyu-san!"
With that, the five of them jogged off toward the building. Riku and Mafuyu followed at a calmer pace, their footsteps echoing softly against the pavement.
Inside, Yuyuko was already waiting at the office, papers in hand and a professional smile on her face. She greeted them warmly, exchanged a few final notes with Riku, and promised to escort Mafuyu to her new classroom herself. Mafuyu gave her brother a quiet nod before following Yuyuko down the corridor.
Riku turned toward his own wing, sliding open the door to his classroom. The noise hit him immediately—cheers, greetings, and the unmistakable rustle of excitement.
"Riku-san! Congratulations on your win in Stockholm!"
"You really did it again, huh?"
"Can I get your autograph?"
"Riku-kun, one picture please!"
Before he could even answer, his classmates surrounded him like a mini press conference. Phones out, notebooks extended. Riku could only sigh, half amused, half exhausted, as he obliged with quick autographs and practiced smiles.
From their seats near the back, Rinko, Sayo, Chisato, and Kanon watched the small spectacle unfold.
Chisato rested her chin on her hand. "So this is what he deals with every time he finishes a performance? And here I thought I had the tougher schedule..."
Kanon fidgeted nervously, her hands clasped together. "Fueeeee... I hope Riku-kun's okay. That looks exhausting just to watch."
Sayo smiled faintly. "Riku-san will be fine, Matsubara-san. He's used to this kind of attention." Then her eyes shifted to the girl beside her, who hadn't said a word. "Are you alright, Shirokane-san?"
Rinko blinked, as if waking from a trance. "Ah—Hikawa-san. I'm fine. I just... played a bit longer last night than I planned."
Sayo gave a light sigh. "I know Minato-san approved your NFO sessions, but you still need to rest. Especially before our Live tomorrow."
Rinko nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. "H-hai... It's just... Riku and I were testing new combos for my skills. He wanted to help me perfect the timing."
"I see," Sayo said, tone softening slightly. "Just make sure you don't overdo it. We can't have our keyboardist half asleep on stage."
"Understood," Rinko murmured, cheeks faintly pink. Then, to steer the conversation away, she turned to Chisato and Kanon. "Chisato-san, Matsubara-san... are you two coming to our Live tomorrow?"
Chisato smiled politely. "Our schedule's free, so we might. It'll depend on whether the others want to tag along."
Kanon laughed lightly. "Knowing Kokoro-chan, she'll definitely go. And probably drag all of us with her."
The four of them shared a quiet chuckle as the crowd around Riku finally began to disperse.
He slipped into his seat beside Rinko with a weary sigh. "You'd think they'd calm down after a few minutes."
Rinko looked at him with a small smile. "You look tired, Riku."
He smirked. "You have no idea. This is basically what happens every time me and OG finish performing."
Sayo turned slightly in her chair. "We're aware. Fame comes with its own chaos."
"True enough," Riku said, leaning back in his chair. "Anyway... Mafuyu's the one I'm worried about. First day at a new school, new people—it's a lot."
"She'll manage," Sayo said. "She has you, doesn't she?"
Riku gave a quiet nod as the teacher walked in to start homeroom. He still couldn't shake the question echoing in his mind: Who's Mafuyu going to end up sitting beside?
Meanwhile — Class 2-B
The morning chatter died down as the teacher entered the room, carrying a file.
"Alright everyone," she said, her tone warm but composed. "Before we begin, we have a new transfer student joining us today. Please give her a kind welcome."
The door slid open, and Mafuyu stepped inside, her composure calm and practiced. She moved to the whiteboard, picked up a marker, and wrote her name in neat strokes: Asahina Mafuyu.
Once done, she turned to face the class. "My name is Asahina Mafuyu," she said, her voice soft but steady. "I originally came from Miyamasuzuka. I transferred here to Hanasakigawa due to... family reasons."
Her words hung in the air for a moment. A few students murmured quietly, but before anyone could ask a question, an all-too-familiar voice cut through the silence.
"Mafuyu!"
Everyone turned toward Kokoro, who had already leapt from her seat, beaming with uncontainable joy. "We're classmates!" she exclaimed, waving her arms with the enthusiasm of a parade.
The room froze.
The teacher blinked. "...Tsurumaki-san, please take your seat."
But one of the students couldn't help asking, "Uh, Tsurumaki-san, how do you know Asahina-san already?"
Kokoro puffed her chest proudly. "Because she's onii-chan's sister!"
The classroom collectively gasped. Only Rimi and Saaya—who already knew the truth—remained calm. The rest looked at Mafuyu in shock, whispers immediately rippling through the rows.
Mafuyu, clearly used to this kind of reaction, let out a quiet sigh and cleared her throat. "Technically, I'm his half-sister," she explained gently. "But... please keep it a secret for now. I'll be formally welcomed into the Nagae family in August. Until then, I'm still using my old name."
The teacher nodded, stepping in before the whispers grew louder. "Asahina-san is correct. The school has already been informed of the situation. And Tsurumaki-san," she added pointedly, "I advise you not to share personal details so freely next time. For your cousin's sake."
Kokoro blinked, then saluted playfully. "Hai, sensei!"
A quiet wave of laughter rippled through the class, the tension easing.
"Good. Now then, Asahina-san, please take the vacant seat behind Yamabuki-san."
Mafuyu bowed politely. "Understood."
She made her way to the empty desk, setting down her bag. As she sat, Saaya turned around in her chair, offering a gentle smile.
"If you need any help, just ask," Saaya said kindly. "Riku-kun asked us to look out for you, so don't hesitate."
Mafuyu blinked in surprise, then returned the smile. "Thank you, Yamabuki-san. Then... I'll be in your care."
From the side, Rimi leaned over slightly, as she gave words of support. "We're here for you, Mafuyu-san."
Mafuyu chuckled softly, her tone modest. "Thank you, Ushigome-san."
As the teacher began homeroom, Mafuyu's gaze drifted to the window. The morning light spilled across the desks, painting the room gold. The chatter blending into a warm hum of life she hadn't felt in a long time.
This place was... different. Softer. Livelier.
And for the first time in a while, Mafuyu felt something she couldn't quite name—something that sat between nervousness and relief.
"Maybe this won't be so bad after all."
----------
Rooftop – 12:00 NN
3rd POV
By the time noon rolled around, the rooftop had turned into an unexpected pocket of calm above the noise of the school. A soft breeze carried the scent of spring, brushing through the open air where Riku, Youmu, and the Scarlet sisters sat together. Remilia, ever the one to indulge in a touch of grandeur, had somehow turned what was supposed to be a simple lunch into something resembling a feast.
A long table stretched from end to end, covered with platters that gleamed beneath the sunlight. Freshly made sandwiches, pastries, fruits, and even dishes that looked far too elegant for a school setting were laid out in perfect symmetry. The entire scene had the quiet air of a noble's tea party, one that clearly didn't belong on a high school rooftop.
Chisato stared at the arrangement with disbelief. "I want to ask, Remilia... where did all of this come from?"
Remilia gave her a sly, almost mischievous smile, her crimson eyes glinting. "Don't mind the details. Sakuya just made a little too much food, so I thought I'd share some of it."
Sayo raised a brow. "Does the principal know about this?"
Sakuya, standing gracefully beside her mistress, didn't even flinch. "Of course. I've already given Yuyuko-sama a portion of what I prepared. She was more than happy to accept."
That answer seemed to quiet any doubts. Sayo leaned back slightly, though her gaze still lingered on the food as if half-expecting it to disappear.
Meanwhile, Flandre tugged at her sister's sleeve. "Onee-sama... I'm hungry."
Remilia sighed softly, though there was warmth in her tone. "Good grief. Go on, take what you like. If you want seconds, ask Sakuya."
That was all Flandre needed to hear. She flashed a cheerful grin and dove into the meal with childlike energy, her enthusiasm contagious enough that the rest soon joined in. Laughter mingled with the sound of clinking plates and passing conversation, the rooftop slowly filling with that rare lightness that came when no one was trying too hard.
A few minutes passed in peace before Remilia turned to Riku, curiosity glimmering behind her eyes. "So, Riku-boy, how's the young one faring?"
"Tina?" Riku swallowed his bite, smiling faintly. "She's adapting well. Keine-sensei's been teaching her, and she's learning quickly."
Rinko looked up from her cup. "So Keine-sensei's teaching Tina-chan too?"
Riku nodded. "Yeah. She's got a good teacher. Helps her stay focused."
Sayo leaned forward slightly. "Riku-san... did you and Shirokane-san stay up late again last night because of NFO?"
Riku froze for a moment, then scratched his head, caught in the act. "Yeah... while we were testing Rinko's new skills, there was a rare drop event. I needed a magic user in the party to raise the drop rate."
Rinko smirked a little. "He's right. And the item we got actually benefits you, Hikawa-san."
"Me?" Sayo blinked, caught off guard.
Riku nodded. "It's an accessory exclusive to your character. The effects line up perfectly with your current weapon. Rinko will send it to you once you log in."
Sayo seemed genuinely surprised, though a small smile tugged at her lips. "I see... thank you."
When she glanced toward the courtyard below, she spotted a familiar figure. "By the way, where's Mafuyu-san?"
Riku pointed down without hesitation. "Over there."
The others followed his gaze and saw Mafuyu sitting with Poppin'Party, chatting quietly with Misaki, Hagumi, Kokoro, and Eve. The sight of her blending into the group brought an ease to Riku's expression that didn't go unnoticed.
Youmu, who had been quietly sipping her tea, spoke with her usual calm. "From what Yuyuko-sama told me, Mafuyu-sama is in the same class as Kokoro-sama, Saaya-san, and Rimi-san."
Kanon looked a little uneasy. "I just hope Kokoro-chan doesn't overwhelm her..."
Riku chuckled. "She'll be fine. Kokoro means well. As long as she doesn't go too overboard, it's harmless." He turned toward Remilia then, an amused grin creeping up on him. "Speaking of fine—how's your homework coming along, Remi?"
Remilia froze on the spot. Before she could even attempt a deflection, Sakuya's composed voice cut in. "Oujo-sama and Imouto-sama have completed only half of their homework."
Both sisters stiffened. "Kuh—"
Riku gave a slow, knowing nod. "I see. What about you, Sakuya-san?"
"I've already finished mine," she answered with her usual poise.
"As expected," Riku replied with a grin before turning back to the sisters. "Remi, Flan—finish everything before the week ends. Got it?"
The two vampires nodded rapidly, as if the very air around him carried authority they couldn't ignore.
"Good," Riku continued, leaning back slightly. "Sakuya-san, make sure they do it."
"Understood, Riku-sama."
Remilia's composure cracked. "Sakuya! You're my maid! Why are you following his orders?!"
Sakuya's tone didn't waver. "It's for your own sake, oujo-sama."
The table went silent for a moment before a quiet laugh escaped Riku. "Now that's settled, let's clean up before class—"
His words were cut short by the buzz of his phone. He took it out, glanced at the screen, and blinked when he saw the sender's name. "A message from VALVE?"
Curiosity filled the group as he opened it. A short moment later, a small chuckle escaped him.
Rinko raised a brow. "Something wrong?"
"Not at all," Riku replied, a grin forming. "VALVE just announced the premiere of the TI10 True Sight. And it's happening here in Japan."
Sayo tilted her head. "True Sight?"
"It's a documentary series by VALVE," Riku explained, setting his phone down. "They film behind the scenes of the International Grand Finals—our strategies, discussions, song choices, even how we interact offstage. Basically, they show everything that happens behind the curtain."
A faint smile crossed his face as he continued, "This will be my third one. Since OG and I won TI10, we'll get to see it before it airs worldwide."
Aya looked stunned. "Wait, so you basically have your own movie?"
"You could put it that way," Riku said with a soft laugh.
Even Remilia looked mildly impressed, though she tried to hide it behind her usual smug expression. "Not bad. I suppose not everyone earns a film about their triumphs."
Riku smirked. "Well, some of us just get lucky."
That earned him a playful glare from her before he stood up. "Anyway, let's wrap this up before class resumes."
The group moved with practiced ease, gathering plates and folding napkins while the last bits of conversation faded into the breeze. The laughter lingered as they worked together, even if Remilia and Flandre did more watching than cleaning. Still, the rooftop felt light, filled with that easy peace that never lasted long but always meant something.
When the last of the food was packed away, they started for the stairs. Riku lingered a moment longer, glancing over the edge of the roof. The sun broke through the clouds just then, painting the city below in gold. It reminded him of how brief these quiet moments were—before everything inevitably moved again.
He breathed out softly, a faint smile crossing his face. "Guess the world can wait a little longer."
Then he turned and followed the others back inside, the sound of the afternoon bell echoing behind him as the door closed.
Live House CiRCLE – Studio 10
May 23, 2021 – 5:30 P.M.
The rhythmic sound of guitars and drums filled Studio 10 as Roselia played the final chords of Brave Jewel. Their harmonies echoed against the walls—each note carrying that unmistakable weight of focus and passion. When the last note faded, silence followed, broken only by the soft hum of the amplifiers.
Riku stood near the console, arms folded, eyes fixed on the five girls before him. Beads of sweat glistened on their faces, their breathing uneven from the intensity of the twelfth run-through. The tension in the air hung thick—every member waiting for his verdict.
Lisa wiped her brow with the back of her arm, her voice breathless. "So? How was it?"
Riku's lips curved into a rare, approving smile. "Perfect."
The single word seemed to detonate with relief and joy. Ako immediately squealed and threw her arms around Rinko, almost knocking her off balance. Lisa high-fived Sayo and Yukina, her laugh bright and genuine.
"We did it, Rin-Rin!" Ako grinned, eyes wide with excitement. "Riku-nii said it was perfect!"
Rinko pressed a hand against her chest, still catching her breath. "Thank goodness... how many attempts did that take?"
Sayo stretched her stiff fingers with a sigh. "Twelve. My hands are practically numb."
Lisa laughed softly, her voice carrying that familiar warmth. "But we pulled it off. That's what matters."
Yukina nodded, calm yet proud, her commanding tone softened by satisfaction. "Good work, everyone. Now we can finally rest. Our Live begins tomorrow—let's make sure we're ready."
The four girls raised their voices in unison, energy still lingering in their tone. "Hai!"
Just then, the door opened with a gentle click. Hatate stepped in, her tablet in hand.
"Riku," she said with a nod, "everything's settled. Equipment checked, ticketing confirmed, and all logistics are on track. If the expected turnout matches tomorrow, we're set for a huge success."
"Excellent." Riku nodded, his voice firm. "Alright girls, that's it for today. Clean up the studio and get some rest—you'll need it. Dismissed."
There was no hesitation in their movement. Each member quickly began unplugging cables, storing instruments, and wiping down the stands. The exhaustion in their limbs didn't erase the spark of pride in their eyes. One by one, they filed out, Hatate following shortly after.
Except for one.
Rinko remained where she stood. Her hands lingered over the keyboard, her gaze quietly fixed on the floor as the soft hum of the amps faded into silence.
Lisa noticed her still figure by the corner of her eye and turned back. "Rinko?"
Rinko looked up, her tone gentle yet steady. "I'm sorry, Imai-san. I... want to talk to Riku. Alone."
Lisa blinked, then glanced between the two of them. For a brief moment, the air shifted—an unspoken understanding passing through her expression. She smiled knowingly. "Alright. I'll let Yukina and the others know."
With that, she exited the studio, closing the door softly behind her. The lock clicked faintly, leaving only Riku and Rinko in the quiet space.
Riku looked at her curiously, though his expression remained calm. "So, what's this about?"
Rinko's fingers curled against the hem of her skirt. "I... have something important to tell you. I might not get another chance."
Riku placed a hand gently on her shoulder, his touch steady but patient. "Take a breath," he said softly. "Whatever it is, say it. I'll listen."
Rinko inhaled deeply, gathering her courage. Her violet eyes met his, and for once, there was no trace of hesitation in them. "Riku," she whispered, "I want you to answer this truthfully... Do you like me?"
The words hung in the air like lightning before a storm.
Riku blinked, stunned for a moment. "What?"
Rinko didn't flinch. "Do you like me? More than as a friend?"
For a brief second, the world seemed to fall silent. He hadn't expected her to be the one to ask—hadn't expected the quiet, shy pianist to look him in the eye and demand an answer with such conviction. But after the initial shock faded, he let out a small, rueful smile.
"When did you figure it out?" he asked.
Rinko's voice softened, her gaze unwavering. "When you sang Swaying from Season to Season."
Riku exhaled slowly, closing his eyes for a moment. "So you understood the meaning behind it... That makes things easier."
"Then that means...?"
"Yes." His voice lowered to a gentle certainty. "I do like you, Rinko. More than as a friend."
The words struck deep. Rinko's heart skipped—her pulse quickened to the point where she could almost hear it echoing in her ears. The faintest tremor passed through her hands, but she couldn't stop smiling.
Riku continued, his tone quiet, as if recalling something he'd long held inside. "When I came back to Japan in January and saw you from the limo, I wanted to stop right there. Call out to you. But I didn't—I told myself we'd see each other again soon enough."
Rinko's lips curved into a faint smile. "And in April... we finally did."
"Yeah," Riku said with a small nod. "When I saw you up close, I felt relieved. You hadn't changed. You were still the shy, soft-spoken, beautiful girl I remembered. But behind that shyness, I could see it—a spark of courage waiting to bloom. Watching you perform at GALAXY made me proud, Rinko. Proud in a way I didn't expect. I wanted to run up on that stage and hug you, but I stopped myself."
Rinko's voice trembled faintly. "Riku..."
He smiled faintly. "Leaving again to stand in for OG in Stockholm was one of the hardest choices I've ever made. I had just returned, and suddenly, I was flying off again. I almost refused. But Chisato convinced me—it was a chance for you and the others to see what being a professional really means."
"I see," Rinko murmured. Her eyes shimmered faintly under the dim studio lights. "When you told us you were leaving again, I tried not to cry. I didn't want to seem selfish. But now... I understand."
"I'm glad you didn't run away before I explained," Riku said with a soft laugh.
Rinko looked at him earnestly. "Riku... I have to ask. Chisato-san once said that you didn't know how to express love. Was that true?"
He paused, his eyes drifting to the floor before meeting hers again. "Yeah," he admitted quietly. "Back then, I didn't. I didn't know how to show it—not properly. But after I left Japan, I started to realize it little by little. That's why I wrote Swaying from Season to Season. It was my way of remembering how I felt about you... even when I couldn't say it out loud."
The confession lingered between them, raw and unguarded. For the first time, Rinko saw in his eyes something she hadn't seen before—not the calm confidence of a leader, nor the composure of a champion, but simple sincerity.
She took a single step closer, her voice barely above a whisper. "Then... that song wasn't just a melody, was it?"
Riku shook his head, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "No. It was everything I couldn't put into words."
For a moment, silence filled Studio 10. The echo of Riku's voice lingered faintly against the walls, mixing with the subtle hum of the instruments still resonating from their earlier practice. Rinko stood there—motionless, her eyes locked on Riku—as the weight of his words sank into her chest. The meaning of his song, Swaying from Season to Season, had always been clear to her. It wasn't just a melody or a message—it was Riku's heart, quietly beating between each note.
She finally understood: Riku had always harbored true affection for her, but his world—the world of music, responsibility, and leadership—had forced him to bury those feelings deep beneath layers of duty. Now, with his career behind him, Rinku realized this was his moment to finally breathe. To live, not as the prodigy or the leader of OG, but as Riku—the man capable of love.
And for her, this was her one chance. Whether she was accepted or not, she had to say it. She'd promised herself that if the opportunity came, she would face it head-on. Forget fear, forget the risk of heartbreak—if she stayed silent now, she would regret it for the rest of her life.
Taking a deep breath, Rinko raised her trembling gaze to Riku.
"Riku," she began softly, her voice quivering like the first note of a piano sonata. "I've wanted to say this for a long time. I love you, Nagae Riku. Not as a friend—but as something more."
Riku froze. The air between them felt heavy, yet fragile.
"I fell for you a year after we became friends," she continued, her tone growing firmer despite the tremor in her chest. "You were always there for me—helping me when I was struggling, guiding me through my weaknesses, encouraging me even when I thought I'd fail. You even protected me when people tried to hurt me. You gave me strength, Riku. And you asked for nothing in return."
Her hands balled into fists as the memories rushed back—those days of laughter, lessons, and quiet understanding.
"When you left Japan, it felt like... like a part of me disappeared too. I thought about giving up the piano. Everything I touched felt empty without you beside me." Her voice broke slightly. "But then I remembered the promise we made. That no matter where we were, we'd keep improving. You kept me going, Riku. And when I entered high school, joining Roselia was my way of keeping that promise alive."
Riku's expression softened. For a man who had faced monsters and chaos, the sight of Rinko's sincerity struck deeper than any battle wound.
"Rinko..." he whispered, his tone a mix of disbelief and warmth.
Rinko pressed on, even as tears threatened to spill.
"When I saw you again at Hanasakigawa, it felt like my world finally became whole. And when you went to Stockholm... I wanted to cry because you were leaving me again. But when you told me about the Future World Fes, I understood. You had your path to walk—and I wanted you to succeed. You had my full support."
Her breathing trembled as she tried to hold herself together. "When I found out you were a youkai, I didn't know what to think at first. I was scared, confused... but then I remembered all the time we spent together. And I realized it didn't matter. Whether you're human or youkai, you're still the Riku I fell in love with."
Rinku's composure cracked. Each word pierced through him like a blade of sincerity.
"I know some of the girls have feelings for you too," Rinko said, her lips trembling as she forced a small, fragile smile. "But none of that changes how I feel. I truly love you, Riku. I want to spend my time with you, stand beside you, and... grow old with you."
The confession hung in the air—raw, unguarded, and painfully beautiful.
Rinku stood there, speechless. His heart pounded violently against his chest, but his eyes betrayed the internal storm raging within him. Slowly, he turned away from her and faced the door.
"Riku...?" Rinko's voice broke.
He closed his eyes, his tone low and heavy. "Rinko, I... I'm sorry."
The words shattered her world.
Her knees gave out, and she fell to the floor as though her strings had been cut. The warmth in her chest turned to ice; her vision blurred from the tears she could no longer hold back. Every heartbeat hurt.
Before she could even find the strength to respond, Riku suddenly moved—his body snapping into action as he turned toward the door, eyes sharp and alert.
"No one's here..." he muttered under his breath. "Good."
He lifted his hand and snapped his fingers.
In an instant, the atmosphere of the room shifted. The air thickened with an invisible pulse, the faint shimmer of a barrier forming around them. The soundproof field sealed the studio from the outside world.
Rinko, startled by the sudden change, looked around nervously. "Riku... what is this?"
"Just a precaution," Riku replied, his tone calm but distant. "Rinko, I'm happy you confessed your feelings to me. Truly, I am. And I do feel the same way. But..." His gaze softened, a mix of guilt and resolve clouding his expression. "I can't accept your feelings—for now."
Rinko blinked through her tears. "For... now?"
That single phrase ignited a spark of fragile hope within her. He hadn't rejected her completely. There was still something—some unseen wall between them.
"Riku," she whispered, "what do you mean for now? Is something happening that I don't know about?"
He nodded solemnly. "Yes. Remember when I introduced Tina to you all? There's more to that story than what we told you. And if word gets out... it could endanger not just me and Mafuyu, but you, Roselia, and even your families."
Rinko's breath caught in her throat. "So... that's why you set up this field? To keep anyone from hearing?"
"Exactly." His voice turned serious. "What I'm about to tell you must never leave this room. Not even to Yukina or the others. Do you understand?"
Rinko nodded quickly, her eyes wide with fear and confusion.
Riku exhaled deeply. "The reason Tina was originally sent to kill me and Mafuyu... is because the Branch Family of the Nagae clan ordered it."
Rinko's eyes widened in shock. The ache of her earlier heartbreak was instantly replaced by a different kind of pain—fear.
"What?!" she gasped. "Why would your own family want you dead?!"
Riku's expression darkened. "Because they're desperate. The Branch and Main families have been in conflict for generations. Usually, it's just political scheming—manipulation, influence, money. But this..." He clenched his fist. "This was the first time they've tried direct assassination. If Mafuyu and I had died that day, the Branch Family would've used it to force my grandfather to step down as family head. They want power, Rinko. And they're willing to spill blood for it."
Rinko's hands trembled. "So... the reason you can't accept my feelings now... is because you're trying to protect me."
Riku turned to face her again, his eyes filled with guilt. "Yes. We're already close, Rinko. Too close. If they discover that I care for you—someone outside the clan—they'll see you as a target. They'll use you, or worse... hurt your family, or your band."
Tears filled Rinko's eyes again, but this time, they weren't born of rejection. They were born of understanding—and fear for the man she loved.
"Riku..." she whispered, her voice barely audible.
Without a word, Riku stepped forward and pulled her into his arms. His embrace was firm yet gentle, his heartbeat steady against her ear.
"Don't worry," he said quietly. "Nothing will happen to you. I promise. My grandfather and I are already taking measures to deal with them. Once we gather enough proof, the Branch Family will be finished. Their influence will end in August—during the main clan meeting. Until then..."
He loosened his hold, his hands lingering on her shoulders as he met her eyes. Rinko's tears shimmered under the soft studio light, her breath trembling as she nodded.
"I understand," she said softly. "Then... I'll wait for you, Riku. Until it's over. And when that time comes..."
Before she could finish, Riku gently leaned in and pressed a kiss to her forehead. The touch froze her in place, her cheeks instantly flushed as a single tear slid down.
"Don't say it," he murmured. "Once everything is over... I'll answer you for real."
Rinko closed her eyes, clutching her chest where her heart raced uncontrollably. Though her confession had been met with uncertainty, she could feel the truth in his embrace—the warmth that told her his words were genuine.
When she opened her eyes again, she smiled faintly through the tears. The pain of rejection had turned into a quiet promise.
And as the sound of the bounded field dissipated into silence, Riku released her hand and smiled back.
For now, their hearts had to wait.
But soon... that wait would end.
Riku's voice softened as he turned toward Rinko, who was still sitting on the edge of the practice stage, her expression calm but her eyes faintly tired.
"Rest up for a moment," he said, kneeling slightly to meet her gaze. "Once you've caught your breath, I'll take you home. Alright?"
Rinko nodded faintly, exhaling the tension that had built up during their talk. The emotional storm between them had finally calmed, replaced by a strange sense of warmth—quiet, comforting, yet uncertain.
"You know," she murmured, fingers gently brushing her necklace, "I was actually planning to confess to you after me and Roselia won the Future World Fes... if we ever got the chance to enter."
Riku's brow lifted in mild surprise, but then a small smile tugged at the corner of his lips. "Then how about we renew that promise?"
"Renew?" she echoed curiously.
"Yeah," Riku said, leaning back slightly, his tone shifting to something more playful. "Let's make a new one. Show me that Roselia can compete with the best. You don't have to win to prove it to me—victory's great, sure—but I want to see that your band can stand on the same stage I once did. Make it to the top three. And if you don't win..." His eyes gleamed, a sly grin breaking through. "Then make it hell for the others to take that win from you. Make them feel it."
Rinko blinked, caught off guard by his mischievous tone. "Isn't that a bit too much? Giving them a hard time, maybe we can do that, but... traumatize them?" She gave a nervous laugh. "That sounds a little cruel."
Riku chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Right, sorry. That's just the way OG rolls. If we can't win, we'll at least leave a scar. We did that to Team Secret and Virtus.pro once. Worked like a charm."
Rinko couldn't help but laugh at his casual mention of tormenting rival bands. "You really are terrifying sometimes, Riku."
He smirked in return. "And yet you're still here."
Her laughter softened as she glanced again at her necklace, holding it between her fingers with quiet reverence. Then she looked up, her expression steadier—shy, but resolute.
"I'll try," she said firmly. "I promise. I'll show you that Roselia can be the best."
"Good," Riku said, pleased by her conviction. "Then until that day comes, keep my necklace. And whatever you do—don't open it."
Rinko blinked. "Eh? This thing can be opened?"
Riku tilted his head slightly. "No? You didn't know?"
"I didn't," she said honestly, frowning curiously as she turned it over in her palm.
"Well," Riku replied, "now you do. But don't get any ideas."
He was about to say more when something faint caught his attention. A glint. Just at the edge of one of the amplifiers near the corner of the room.
His eyes narrowed. "Hold on."
Rinku walked over, crouched down, and reached behind a stack of cables. There, barely hidden, was a small, sleek recording device—its red light faintly blinking.
His jaw tightened. "A recorder..."
Rinko tilted her head. "A recorder? Someone was—?"
Riku didn't answer. He muttered under his breath, "What is this... who would—" Then, with a sharp squeeze, the device cracked under the pressure of his hand. The metallic crunch echoed briefly through the room. He dropped the broken pieces into the trash bin nearby.
Riku's eyes narrowed, a single thought crossing his mind.
"She's so dead."
Meanwhile, at Hakugyokurou
Far away from CiRCLE, the late afternoon sun bathed the spectral gardens of Hakugyokurou in a soft, peach hue. Yuyuko Saigyouji sat on her balcony, a serene smile on her lips as she sipped tea and munched on rice crackers. A small speaker sat beside her, faint static now emanating from it—the last trace of her connection to the recorder she'd just lost.
"Oh my~," Yuyuko hummed with mock surprise. "Riku-kun found the recorder I planted... oh well~"
Behind her, Youmu appeared, carrying a tray with freshly brewed tea. Her sigh came before the words. "I told you spying on Riku-kun was a bad idea, Yuyuko-sama."
"Perhaps," Yuyuko said airily, taking another bite of her snack. "But at least they finally understand each other's feelings. The recorder's purpose is fulfilled, so I regret nothing."
Youmu placed the teacup beside her and folded her arms. "Ha... don't expect Riku-kun to let that slide. You know he doesn't take kindly to being watched."
"I'll accept any punishment he gives me," Yuyuko replied with an amused grin. "For this one, I deserve it."
Youmu raised an eyebrow. "Be careful what you wish for, Yuyuko-sama. What if he punishes you by limiting you to only two small bowls of rice a day?"
Yuyuko froze mid-bite, lowering her cracker slowly. "Come now, Youmu. Riku-kun isn't that merciless... right?"
Before Youmu could reply, a servant approached quietly, bowing as he handed Yuyuko a sealed envelope.
"Who's the sender?" Youmu asked.
Yuyuko didn't respond. Her playful tone vanished as she read the letter. Her eyes moved sharply across the words, and a rare frown darkened her normally carefree expression.
"So that's their backup plan..." she murmured. "They're planning to use Riku-kun's flaw against him."
"Yuyuko-sama?" Youmu asked, her tone shifting with concern.
Yuyuko rose gracefully from her seat, moving to a nearby drawer. She opened it, revealing a single letter marked with the Saigyouji Family's insignia pressed in gold wax. Carefully, she placed it atop the one she'd just received, then handed both to Youmu, along with a small card bearing an address.
"Youmu," Yuyuko said, her tone now formal and grave. "Tomorrow, you'll go to this address and deliver this letter. Handle it with utmost care—it may decide Riku-kun's life."
Youmu's grip on the letter tightened. "Hai, Yuyuko-sama. I'll make sure it reaches them safely."
Yuyuko nodded, her gaze drifting toward the setting sun. "We've helped him from the shadows long enough. Now... it's time to make sure the darkness that hunts him never finds its mark."
Back at CiRCLE
The city lights had begun to flicker on by the time Rinko had recovered her strength. The air outside had cooled, the faint scent of rain mixing with the distant sound of evening traffic.
Riku glanced at her, his usual composure restored. "Everything set for tomorrow?"
Rinko nodded. "All done."
"Good." He took one last look around the studio, ensuring every instrument and cable was in place, then turned toward the exit. "Then let's get going."
As they stepped out into the crisp night air, Rinku glanced at the time and frowned slightly. "It's getting late... how about I treat you to dinner?"
Rinko blinked, surprised but pleased. "I'd like that," she said softly. "Any place you'd recommend?"
Riku's lips curved into a rare, gentle smile. "Yeah," he said after a pause, already thinking of a quiet spot that fit the moment perfectly. "I know just the place."
----------
Geitondei
6:15 P.M.
Riku's POV
The evening air was cool enough to carry the faint hum of the city. By the time we reached the old street corner near CiRCLE, the glow of paper lanterns guided our way to a familiar sight — Geitondei. The soft scent of miso and grilled fish drifted out the door, mixing with laughter and faint jazz playing inside.
"This is the place," I said, stopping in front of the wooden sign carved with a whale crest.
Rinko tilted her head slightly. "A pub?"
"Not just any pub," I replied, grinning. "This place is a restaurant by day, pub by night. The best of both worlds. Come on."
When we stepped in, warmth washed over us — the clinking of glasses, low chatter, the hum of an old ceiling fan. Behind the counter, a familiar voice rose above it all.
"Welcome to Geitondei! May I take you to your— Riku-kun! It's been a while!"
Her cheerful tone made a few heads turn. The girl with pink hair and sea-green eyes practically bounced toward us. The whale-shaped hat on her head wobbled with each step, and the tiny gourd tied to her waist swayed like a bell.
"Been a while, Miyoi," I greeted with a light wave.
This was Okunoda Miyoi, the pub's poster girl — lively, sharp, and impossible to miss.
"Miyoi, this is Rinko," I introduced. "The one I mentioned before."
Her eyes flicked toward Rinko, and for a heartbeat, her smile softened — but there was something unreadable behind it. The kind of look that said she knew more than she'd admit.
"So you're Rinko! I'm Okunoda Miyoi!" she said, beaming. "Come on, I'll take you to your table."
The spot she led us to caught my attention right away. The room dimmed slightly here, with a lantern hanging just above a corner booth. The gold placard on the wall made me pause.
"Uh, Miyoi... isn't this the VIP table?"
"Exactly! When the owner heard you were coming, he said to put you here."
I sighed, half amused. "Alright, I'll take him up on it. I'll have my usual— and throw in some vegetable sticks."
Rinko hesitated for a moment, scanning the menu. "I'd like to try the Geitondei Special."
That made Miyoi stop mid-step. "Are you sure?"
Rinko blinked. "Is something wrong with it?"
Before Miyoi could answer, I cut in. "Actually, cancel mine and keep the Special."
Her expression shifted from playful to knowing. "Very well. It'll take about half an hour."
Once she left, Rinko turned to me, puzzled. "Why'd you cancel your order?"
"The Geitondei Special is... hard to explain. You'll see when it gets here." I leaned back against the booth. "Anyway, could you text the others? Tell them to come here."
"Sure."
Her fingers danced across her phone, and almost instantly, her face brightened. "They said they'll be here in a few minutes."
"Perfect."
The room buzzed with life. A couple of salarymen cheered at the counter while a small group of kappa argued about sake brands near the back. Rinko looked around, her eyes reflecting the lantern light.
"I can see why you like this place," she said softly. "It feels... warm. Lively."
"Oh, this is just the start," I said with a chuckle. "Wait until eight. Then you'll see the regulars."
She tilted her head again. "Regulars?"
"Yeah. And since it's a Monday... drunk loli oni incoming in three... two... one—"
THUD.
A loud crash hit the sliding door. I barely had time to open it before a small figure stumbled in — a girl barely chest height, wearing a tattered pink blouse and long skirt, clutching a gourd nearly her size.
"OI MIYOI!! GIVE ME SOME BOOZE!!!" she yelled, face flushed.
Miyoi rushed over, already scolding. "Suika-san! Don't slam the door like that! You'll scare the humans again! Now come with me, I'll take you to your table."
Suika grinned, waving her gourd. "You're the best, Miyoi! Oh, and Yuugi's coming too!"
Miyoi sighed but smiled anyway. "Of course she is."
As the chaos settled, Rinko leaned close, whispering. "Who... was that?"
"Ibuki Suika," I murmured. "One of the last oni still around. Don't be fooled by her size — she could break your arm just by shaking your hand. Her drinking habits, though? Terminal."
Rinko swallowed. "A-and her horns?"
"She hides them with magic. Makes it easier to blend in."
Her eyes widened, and she hesitated. "Then Miyoi-san, she's..."
"Youkai? Yeah. So's everyone working here." I gestured to the room. "Once the sun sets, Geitondei turns into a youkai tavern. Humans who enter get a pass as long as they don't cause trouble. That's part of the old pact."
"That's... incredible," Rinko whispered, half in awe.
"Yeah. My family visits often. I even brought Johan and the others here during our road trip."
Her eyes lit up. "You had a road trip?"
"After returning to Japan last January. Three months, all over the country. The kind of trip that sticks with you."
Rinko smiled softly. "It must've been nice... being free like that."
"It was." I paused, letting the warmth of the memory sit for a second. "But freedom always has an expiry date."
The door burst open again before she could ask what I meant.
"I'm here, Suika!!"
The newcomer's voice rang through the room. Tall, with long blonde hair and red eyes sharp as firelight — Hoshiguma Yuugi. Her presence made even the rowdiest youkai straighten up a little.
"Ah, Yuugi-san!" Miyoi greeted her. "Come, Suika's already waiting!"
Yuugi laughed. "Perfect! Lead the way, Miyoi!"
Rinko blinked. "She's an oni too, right?"
"Yeah. She's in charge of CiRCLE's renovation, actually."
Her jaw dropped. "She's the one renovating CiRCLE?!"
I nodded. "Don't mention fighting in front of her or Suika. It'll turn into a full-blown drinking contest before you blink."
That earned a faint giggle from Rinko, and for a moment, the heaviness of the past few days lifted.
Time slipped by, and soon enough, the door slid open again — this time revealing familiar faces. Yukina walked in first, cool and composed as always. Lisa followed with her casual grin, Sayo with her usual composed expression, and Ako-chan bouncing along, clearly thrilled to see the place.
Lisa was the first to speak as the girls stepped into the dimly lit VIP area. "We came as soon as we could," she said, her tone brisk but warm. The sound of heels against the wooden floor filled the small space as everyone took their seats. On one side sat Ako, Rinko, and me; across from us were Yukina, Sayo, and Lisa.
"You know," I said casually, leaning back in my chair, "you could've taken your time coming here. No need to rush."
Sayo folded her arms, her expression composed but curious. "Well, Shirokane-san was the one who sent the message. So naturally, we assumed it was important."
Rinko shifted uncomfortably, fidgeting with her sleeves. "Well... you could say it's important, but... um..."
I smiled faintly. "You're about to find out right now."
And right on cue, the sliding door opened with a soft shunk. Miyoi stepped in, her expression bright and welcoming as always, followed by a line of waitresses carrying trays piled high with food.
"Sorry for the wait!" she said cheerfully. "Here is the Geitondei Special!"
The girls' reactions were priceless. Their eyes widened in disbelief, mouths slightly agape as the mountain of food was placed before us—three large bowls of golden kara-age, forty-five yakitori sticks glistening with sauce, four plates of assorted sushi and tempura, two platters of sausages, a massive bowl of agedashi tofu, and countless smaller dishes lined the table. The aroma was intoxicating, a mix of soy, oil, and freshly grilled meat filling the air.
Even I had to admit, it was excessive.
Miyoi placed the final tray down and straightened up. "I'll leave the tab here. Come to the counter whenever you're ready to pay. Enjoy your meal!"
As she left, closing the door behind her, silence took over the room. The six of us just stared at the feast spread out before us.
Sayo was the first to break the silence. "So... this is why you called us, Shirokane-san?"
Rinko looked like she wanted to sink into her seat. "Hai... I'm sorry if I wasted your time."
Yukina shook her head gently. "Don't apologize, Rinko. Though... this is quite a lot." She glanced around at the stacked dishes. "Even with all of us, I don't think we could finish everything here."
I smirked. "I have an idea." I stood up from my seat, straightening my jacket. "Just... prepare yourselves for what comes next."
Ako tilted her head curiously. "What comes next?"
I didn't answer. Instead, I walked out of the room, heading to the door across the hallway. Knocking twice, I heard faint laughter and the clinking of bottles from inside.
The door slid open—and sure enough, there she was.
"Who could it be—ah, Riku-chan!" Suika greeted, her cheeks slightly flushed, a bottle of sake in one hand. "You're here too! Come in, come in! Have a drink with me and Yuugi!"
Yuugi raised her hand from inside the smoky room. "Yo, Riku!"
"Good to see you two." I smiled, stepping in briefly but shaking my head. "I appreciate the offer, Suika, but I'll have to decline. I've got some of my friends here tonight."
"Aww, that's too bad," Suika said, puffing her cheeks slightly in disappointment. "Then what brings you here?"
"I need your help with something."
Suika and Yuugi exchanged glances, curiosity flashing in their eyes.
Yuugi chuckled. "Don't tell me this is about that Geitondei Special we heard earlier?"
"You heard that?" I blinked. "Well, that makes things easier. Come with me."
The two oni followed me back to the VIP room. When we arrived, the girls were still staring at the untouched food, looking more overwhelmed than hungry.
"You were waiting for me, weren't you?" I asked, amused.
Lisa gave a small laugh. "Well, yeah. We didn't even know where to start—there's so much here."
"I see." I gestured toward the two who followed behind me. "Anyway, girls, meet Suika and Yuugi."
Suika stepped forward with a bright grin. "Yahhoo~! Ibuki Suika! Glad to see Riku-chan has such a lovely group of friends!"
The girls blushed immediately at her forwardness, some averting their gaze, others stifling giggles.
Yuugi gave a respectful nod. "Hoshiguma Yuugi. Pleasure to meet you all."
"Now that we're all acquainted," I said, motioning toward the feast, "Suika, Yuugi—you two can pick whatever you want. Take it to your table."
"Thanks a bunch, Riku-chan!" Suika said, snapping her fingers. In an instant, several miniature Suikas—tiny duplicates of herself—appeared out of thin air, each grabbing plates and bowls of food with cheerful giggles.
Lisa nearly jumped out of her seat. "Whoa! What are these little cuties?!"
Suika chuckled. "My ability~. Don't worry, Riku-chan already told me you girls know we're youkai. So you're all good in my book!"
Yuugi crossed her arms, smirking. "Oi, Suika, don't take everything."
"Oh yeah!" Suika snapped her fingers again, commanding the mini Suikas to leave a decent portion behind. Within moments, they disappeared back to her table with half the food.
Once they were gone, I exhaled. "Suika really is a handful."
Yuugi laughed softly. "True enough." She reached into her coat and pulled out a bottle wrapped in cloth. "Oh right—before I forget."
She handed it to me. The bottle was engraved with delicate runes, the seal faintly glowing under the light.
"What's this?" I asked, examining it.
"This is for your old man," Yuugi explained. "Before Suika called me over, I was supposed to deliver it to him myself. He asked me to brew this two years ago—it's one of my best creations."
My eyes widened slightly as I carefully held the bottle. "You made this yourself?"
Yuugi nodded proudly. "Aged to perfection. He'll know what it is once he tastes it."
I smiled. "Thanks, Yuugi. I'm sure my grandfather will be happy."
With that, Yuugi turned and joined Suika at their table, already pouring drinks as laughter erupted from their corner.
When I turned back, our table looked noticeably emptier.
Sayo blinked, stunned. "They took... at least half."
"Well," I said with a shrug, "they're oni. And oni eat a lot."
Lisa laughed, shaking her head. "Then let's not waste any more time. This looks too good to let it go cold."
The atmosphere immediately lightened as chopsticks were picked up and everyone found their rhythm.
"Itadakimasu!" we all said in unison before diving in.
The sound of laughter and cheerful chatter filled the room as everyone began to eat. Rinko slowly eased into the atmosphere, her earlier embarrassment replaced with quiet smiles as Ako teased her about the amount she ordered. Sayo, as precise as ever, divided portions carefully, while Lisa and Yukina exchanged small compliments about the flavors.
I leaned back slightly, taking a sip of tea as I watched them. The tension that had been lingering since this morning had finally lifted. For a moment, it felt peaceful—simple, even. Just friends sharing a meal after a long day.
In a world constantly shifting between the supernatural and the unknown, moments like this felt rare. And as I watched Rinko laughing softly with Ako, and Yukina smiling in quiet amusement, I couldn't help but think—yeah, maybe all this food wasn't such a bad idea after all.
Several minutes later, the sound of satisfied sighs filled the private room. Empty plates, discarded skewers, and half-drained glasses littered the table. Even so, the pleasant aroma of soy and fried batter still hung faintly in the air.
I leaned back in my seat, resting an elbow on the armrest. "That was good," I murmured, letting out a small breath of contentment.
Lisa stretched her arms above her head. "That was so good~" she said, her tone melting with satisfaction.
Sayo nodded, setting down her chopsticks. "Indeed. The flavor balance was exquisite. Every bite practically melted on my tongue."
Ako thumped her hands on the table excitedly. "Riku-nii! Can we come here again next time? Please?"
I chuckled softly at her enthusiasm. "Maybe next time, Ako-chan. We'll see." My gaze shifted toward the quieter side of the table. "Rinko, Yukina. You two okay?"
Yukina dabbed the corner of her lips with a napkin, her posture composed as always. "We're fine, Riku-san. It was... a new experience for me, but an enjoyable one."
Rinko nodded gently beside her. "Yes, the food was wonderful."
I smiled. "I'm glad. Then if you'll excuse me for a bit, I'll go pay the bill."
With that, I stood and made my way out of the room, leaving the girls chatting among themselves.
Rinko's POV
As Riku disappeared through the door, a comfortable silence settled between us for a brief moment. Then I felt Imai-san's eyes on me—warm, mischievous, and far too knowing.
Imaisan leaned forward, resting her chin on her palm. "So, Rinko," she said, her voice teasing, "what did you and Riku talk about when we left you two alone earlier?"
Ako-chan immediately perked up. "Yeah! Lisa-nee told us that you had something important to say to Riku-nii!"
Before I could even respond, Hikawasan cleared her throat disapprovingly. "Imai-san, Udagawa-san—it's rather rude to pry into Shirokane-san's private matters."
Yukinasan's tone, however, was gentler. "But... if you feel comfortable telling us, Rinko, then please do."
I fidgeted with the edge of my sleeve, feeling all their eyes on me. "O-Okay... but please, promise me you won't be too loud."
They nodded—though I had a sinking feeling they wouldn't actually keep that promise. Taking a deep breath, I recounted everything. The moment, my words, and how Riku had responded.
And just as I expected, a synchronized outburst shattered the air.
"YOU CONFESSED TO HIM?!"
The combined voices of Imai-san, Hikawa-san and Ako-chan nearly made me jump out of my seat.
"I told you not to be loud!" I hissed, my face burning crimson.
"Sorry, sorry!" Imaisan waved her hands frantically, grinning like an excited kid. "But seriously, Rinko, I didn't expect you to just outright confess! You're bolder than I thought!"
Hikawa-san recomposed herself, looking mildly surprised herself. "But what about your promise to him? You said you'd confess only after we won the Future World Fes."
I lowered my gaze, fingers tightening slightly around my lap. "That was the plan. But... when Riku won the Future World Fes, I realized I couldn't wait anymore. If I hesitated again, I might've lost my chance forever."
They all went quiet as I continued softly. "As for our promise—it still stands. We actually reaffirmed it. Riku told me we don't need to win to prove ourselves. We just need to show that we can stand on the same stage as the best. Or, in his words..." I swallowed. "'If we can't win, we can at least traumatize them.'"
All four girls just stared at me with identical expressions of disbelief—wide eyes and twitching lips that silently screamed: Are you serious right now?
I nodded awkwardly, confirming that yes, I wasn't joking.
Imai-san was the first to break. "Wow... Riku really said that?"
Yukina-san coughed lightly into her fist, as though trying to cover her amusement. "I see... Then, we'll just have to practice harder than ever. If we're going to challenge OG and the others, we'll need to go further beyond."
Ako-chan raised her hand dramatically. "So are you and Riku-nii, like... going out now?"
"Not yet," I replied with a small shake of my head. "We acknowledged each other's feelings, but... Riku still has things he needs to resolve—matters concerning his family. And I'm sorry, but I can't talk about it. It could put you all in danger."
Imai-san leaned back, crossing her arms but smiling reassuringly. "That's fine. We won't force you. What matters is that you finally told him. I'm really happy for you, Rinko."
Hikawa-san nodded. "I agree. And looking at you now... you seem lighter. Like you've had a huge weight lifted off your shoulders."
"Exactly," Yukina-san added. "Now you can stand before him with no hesitation—show him who you truly are."
Emotion welled up in my chest, and I smiled at them through slightly teary eyes. "Thank you, everyone. Then... let's make a promise—the five of us."
They all tilted their heads curiously.
"Let's make Roselia one of the best bands in the world."
There was a brief pause before laughter erupted across the table. Imai-san chuckled first, Hikawa-san shook her head with a faint smirk, and even Yukina-san, normally so composed, let out a gentle laugh.
"D-Don't laugh at it!" I pouted, my face burning again. "I'm serious!"
Yukina-san's laughter subsided as she looked at me fondly. "There's no need to be embarrassed, Rinko."
"Yukina-san..." I murmured.
Her smile softened. "But I agree. Let's show the world what Roselia can do."
Imai-san gave a playful salute. "Count me in. Who knows—maybe people around the globe will become devoted to us."
Ako-chan stood on her chair, raising her fist dramatically. "With my symphonic melodies, I will allure our fans to their knees! For I am the Demon Princess Udagawa Ako! Get ready, world—because I'm coming for you!"
Hikawa-san rolled her eyes but smiled faintly. "As Minato-san once said, we'll show the world why Roselia is worth watching. But before that, we have to impress Riku-san's guests tomorrow. That'll be our first step forward."
"Couldn't have said it better myself," came a familiar voice from behind us.
We all turned our heads. Standing at the doorway was Riku, hands casually tucked in his pockets and an amused smirk on his face.
"R-Riku?!" Imai-san blurted, startled. "When did you get back?"
Riku chuckled. "When Rinko said Roselia would become one of the best bands in the world."
I froze, my face going bright red. "Y-You heard that?!"
"I did," he said, smiling gently. "And I like that confidence. But remember—you still have a lot to prove. You're just getting started."
I nodded shyly. "I see... um... the bill—how much was it?"
He handed me the receipt. My eyes widened instantly, and I nearly choked on my own breath.
"G-Geitondei Special—¥1,245,102.50?! REIKYO Absolute 0—two bottles for ¥770,000?! What—"
The others crowded around me, and their jaws collectively dropped.
Hikawa-san's voice came out barely above a whisper. "That's... over two million yen."
"Two million?!" Imai-san nearly shouted. "You're kidding!"
Riku scratched the back of his head casually. "That's why Miyoi asked if that was really your order. Don't worry—I used my savings. It's no big deal."
I blinked at the receipt again. "Wait... you also ordered sake?"
"Oh, that." Riku pointed toward the corner of the room. "Those were for Yuugi and Suika."
We turned our heads. The two oni were cheerfully clinking their cups, laughing and waving in our direction. Suika gave a playful salute, and Yuugi raised her sake bottle proudly before downing another drink.
Ako-chan giggled. "They look really happy."
"Well," Riku said with a small grin, "oni do love their sake. Now come on, let's get you girls home."
We followed Riku out of Geitondei, the cool night air washing over us as the city's lights flickered in the distance. But just as we reached the street, he stopped and gestured for us to wait.
Hikawa-san tilted her head. "Why are we stopping, Riku-san?"
"Our ride's about to arrive," he said, glancing at his watch. "In three... two... one."
Right on cue, a sleek black car turned the corner and pulled up in front of us. Its polished frame reflected the streetlights like liquid glass.
My eyes widened. "Riku... isn't that—"
Hikawa-san's mouth dropped open. "So the huge car parked near our school that everyone was talking about—that was yours?!"
Imai-san and Yukina-san exchanged looks of surprise, and even Ako seemed frozen in awe.
Riku chuckled. "So you saw it, huh? Yeah, that's mine. I bought it using my winnings—and customized it a little."
He pressed a button on his key fob, and the doors of the car swung open automatically. To our surprise, the driver's seat was empty.
"W-Where's the driver?" Imai-san asked.
"Autopilot," Riku said, tapping the side of the car proudly. "I programmed the coordinates here earlier. It drove itself."
We all climbed in, still in disbelief. The interior was luxurious and spacious—soft black leather seats, subtle ambient lighting, and enough room to fit at least a dozen people comfortably.
Imai-san let out a whistle. "There's so much room in here, Riku."
Yukina-san ran her hand along the armrest. "You really do have a knack for customization, don't you?"
Riku chuckled. "It's more of a hobby. One of the few things I enjoy aside from music."
Ako-chan's eyes sparkled. "How much did this car cost, Riku-nii?"
He smirked slightly. "Let's just say... a lot." He rested his hand on the wheel. "Now then—let's ride."
The car's engine hummed to life, and as the vehicle pulled smoothly onto the street, laughter and soft chatter filled the cabin once more—marking the end of another unforgettable night.
----------
Shirokane Residence Entrance — 8:30 P.M.
Riku's POV
The drive from Geitondei was quiet, the soft hum of the car engine filling the silence as the city lights flickered across the windshield. The night air outside carried a faint chill, but after the laughter and chaos of dinner, the peace was almost welcome. I spent the trip dropping off the girls one by one—starting with Ako-chan.
When we reached her house, her older sister met us at the gate, smiling warmly as Ako waved goodbye. "Thank you for bringing her home safely, Riku!" she said, her tone polite but sincere. I simply nodded before driving off again.
Next were Lisa and Yukina, who lived just a few streets apart. As we pulled up, Atsushi-san was already outside, waiting in his usual formal stance. He offered a faint smile and a slight bow.
"Riku-kun," he began, "thank you for helping Yukina. I hope you'll continue to support her."
I gave a modest smile. "You don't even have to ask, Atsushi-san."
Yukina and Lisa both waved as they headed for their doors, offering one last goodnight. There was a calm satisfaction seeing them safe. Then came Sayo—our next stop. Her apartment lights were still on when we arrived, and the moment she stepped out, the door swung open to reveal her younger sister, Hina, who immediately ran up and hugged her. The two laughed together, and I couldn't help but feel a quiet warmth watching them.
Finally, it was just me and Rinko.
The car rolled to a stop in front of the Shirokane Residence. The stone pathway leading to her gate gleamed faintly under the streetlight, and for a moment, neither of us said anything. Rinko turned toward me, her expression gentle yet distant, as though her mind were still at Geitondei.
"Thank you for driving me home, Riku," she said softly, her voice barely above a whisper.
"No worries," I replied, giving her a faint smile. "It's the least I could do."
There was a brief silence, only the sound of crickets and the faint rustling of the trees around us. Then, as if a thought suddenly struck me, I reached into the passenger seat and pulled out a small envelope.
"Here," I said, handing it to her.
She blinked in confusion. "Riku, what's this?"
"It's a Keytar voucher from The Blues Music Shop. I got it last month, but it's about to expire in August." I scratched the back of my neck a little awkwardly. "If you've ever wanted to try one for your setup, just show that voucher to the staff. Tell them I sent you—they'll probably throw in a discount."
Her eyes widened slightly, and for a brief moment, I caught a flicker of emotion on her face—something between surprise and gratitude. "Riku... thank you." She hesitated, clutching the voucher gently. "You should probably go now."
"Yeah," I murmured. "Get some rest, okay?"
She nodded, though her gaze lingered on me a moment longer than usual. Then, with a faint blush rising to her cheeks, she whispered, "Riku... could you get out of the car for a moment?"
I raised a brow. "Why?"
"I... I want a hug. For old times' sake."
I couldn't help but smile at that. Without another word, I stepped out of the car and closed the door behind me. The night air brushed past us as I approached her, the faint glow of the gate light reflecting in her eyes. She stepped forward—hesitant at first—and then it happened.
Chu.
A soft, fleeting kiss pressed against my lips, so light it almost didn't feel real. My eyes widened, my body freezing for a heartbeat as time seemed to stop. When the kiss ended, Rinko quickly stepped back, her face flushed a deep crimson.
"G-Good night, Riku," she stammered, fidgeting with her hands. "I... I love you."
The warmth of her words hit me harder than I expected. For a moment, I was speechless—then a quiet smile broke through. "I love you too, Rinko," I said, voice low and honest. "Good night."
She smiled shyly before retreating toward her gate, waving softly as she disappeared inside.
As I got back into the car, I glanced in the rear-view mirror and caught one last glimpse of her—standing there under the dim light, waving. I exhaled slowly, unable to stop the smile that lingered on my face as I drove off into the calm night.
Nagae Estate — 8:45 P.M.
3rd POV
When Riku arrived at the estate, the air had already cooled, and the quiet hum of the cicadas filled the evening. The moment he stepped out of the car, one of the attendants approached, bowing respectfully before taking the keys to park the vehicle.
Riku made his way through the long, dimly lit corridors until he reached his grandfather's office. The scent of old paper and sandalwood wafted faintly from inside. At the doorway stood Eiji, the ever-dutiful butler, his expression a blend of patience and concern.
"Ah, Riku-sama," he greeted softly. "You've returned. Might I ask what you're holding?"
Riku lifted the small, carefully sealed bottle in his hand. "Something my grandfather asked for a while back. Why are you standing by the door?"
Eiji gave a faint sigh and gestured toward the room. "You should take a look."
They both peeked in through the half-open door. Inside, Kyoya sat slumped at his desk, head resting on his arms, his spectacles lying beside scattered papers. The faint sound of his breathing confirmed he'd fallen asleep mid-work again.
Riku shook his head, his tone laced with gentle exasperation. "He pushed himself too hard again..."
Eiji nodded. "With the Branch Family's increasing activity, he has had little rest. Eirin-dono has already advised him to ease his workload, though he rarely listens."
Riku handed the bottle over carefully. "Then please give this to him when he wakes up. It's from Yuugi—something my grandfather requested years ago."
"I'll see to it personally," Eiji assured. Then, almost as an afterthought, he added, "Ah, before you retire, there's a message from Yuyuko-sama. She said there will be a nationwide disinfection for all schools tomorrow. You'll have no classes."
Riku blinked, slightly surprised. "Really? That's convenient. Thanks for the heads-up."
Eiji smiled faintly. "Good night, Riku-sama—and good luck with whatever tomorrow brings."
Riku chuckled lightly, giving him a thumbs-up before heading toward his room.
Riku's Room
Once inside, Riku loosened his collar and sat at his desk, turning on his computer. The faint glow of the monitor illuminated the quiet room, casting long shadows against the wall. He scrolled through his emails absentmindedly until one sender caught his attention.
"From Gorgc?" he muttered, opening it. "What's he up to this time...?"
The email contained an official tournament announcement. His eyes skimmed through the details before freezing at a particular line.
'Riyadh Masters — hosted under royal patronage. Prize pool: $15,000,000.'
Riku blinked twice, his eyebrows arching. "Fifteen million dollars? That's basically a mini TI..." He leaned back in his chair, letting out a low whistle. "Looks like it's going to be one hell of a tournament."
Yet as he scanned the dates, he frowned slightly. "August, huh... that's right in the middle of my busiest month."
He sighed, closing the laptop. "Guess we'll see."
Changing into his sleepwear, Riku lay down on his bed. The soft hum of the night breeze filtered in through the window, carrying the scent of jasmine from the garden below. He stared at the ceiling, letting his mind drift back through the day's events—the laughter, the warmth, the quiet moments that made it all feel worth it.
And then his fingers unconsciously touched his lips. The memory of Rinko's kiss lingered—warm, real, and impossibly gentle.
"...So she really loves me," he whispered to the dark room. "I'm... glad she feels the same."
With that thought, his eyes slowly closed, and he drifted off to sleep, a faint smile still playing on his lips.
Shirokane Residence — Rinko's Room
Meanwhile, Rinko lay on her bed, staring up at the ceiling. Her cheeks still burned faintly as she pressed a hand over her lips, remembering what she'd done.
"I... I actually did it," she murmured to herself, her voice trembling with disbelief and a hint of pride. "I kissed Riku..."
Her heart fluttered at the memory, and she giggled softly, covering her face with her pillow. "I wonder... what it would feel like if it lasted a bit longer..."
She rolled over, pulling her blanket close. "No... focus, Rinko. Tomorrow's a big day. You can't mess it up."
But as her eyelids grew heavy, the warmth of that brief, stolen moment returned, lingering in her chest like the faint trace of a song that refused to fade.
And before she knew it, Rinko Shirokane drifted peacefully into sleep—her heart light, her dreams sweet, and her thoughts fixed on the boy who had always been there when she needed him most.
To be Continued...