A/N: Today's a good day for me, cause my brother finally graduated from Junior High. So I decided to upload this in a good note. Normally I'd upload this after Wrestlemania....but it is what it is. I'll upload the next at the 17th of May...
Nagae Estate - Training Room
July 4, 2021 - Sunday - 4:30 P.M.
3rd POV
After Riku and the girls he handpicked finished their practice at CiRCLE, all of them returned to their usual activities. However, Riku assigned them a small task of practicing their roles independently, provided they had the time.
Practice went by quickly because everyone, especially Maya, was adjusting quickly. Just by hearing Rei, Kaoru, and Rinko's performance once, she was able to pick up certain beats, and they were able to rehearse collectively.
Even if it was a success, more needs to be done. Following that, Rinko and Riku return to the Nagae Estate. Kuroka, who had just returned from the Myouren Temple, and Meiling, whom Kyoya had brought over, greeted them upon their return.
When Riku questioned why Meiling was at the estate, his grandfather replied that this was the beginning of his training to use the Divine Dividing. Additionally, his grandfather had already established a timetable for Riku to follow, which the young heir agreed.
Riku then rushed to the changing room to get ready and Rinko asked Kyoya if it was okay to watch, and he said yes.
Right now, Riku, Meiling, Kuroka and Rinko are at the training room, as the nekoshou and Rinko were on the side as they watch Riku and Meiling duke it out.
The air crackled with tension as Riku and Meiling were going all out in their fight, shockwaves were created in every punch they make, even Kuroka has to put out a barrier to protect Rinko.
Riku who was wearing a skin tight black shirt and dark blue shorts caught his distance with Meiling, he launched a high roundhouse kick with lightning speed. Meiling then ducked just in time, the air whistling as the kick narrowly missed her head. Without hesitation, she stepped in, driving her elbow toward his ribs.
Riku then twisted, deflecting the blow with his forearm, but she used the momentum to spin into a low sweeping kick. His legs buckled slightly, but he rolled backward, using the force to spring to his feet.
Their eyes locked for a split second-both calculating, both relentless.
Meiling surged forward, throwing a series of rapid punches. He blocked the first two but caught the third square in his shoulder. Grunting, he shifted his weight and retaliated with a spinning backfist that grazed her cheek. Blood trickled from her lip, but she smirked, stepping back into a defensive stance.
He advanced with a flurry of strikes-jab, hook, knee-but she parried each one, her movements fluid and precise. Then, with a feint to his right, she caught him off-guard, slamming her palm into his sternum. He staggered back, his breath hitching, but planted his feet firmly.
Riku: Not bad.
Meiling: You're not bad too, Riku-sama. I can see you've grown a lot. How about we take it up a notch?
Riku: Let's.
The pause lasted only a heartbeat before they collided again, the sound of fists meeting flesh echoing through the training room. Each move was a test, each strike a question-and neither seemed willing to yield the answer.
Meanwhile Kuroka and Rinko were just watching them fight, but the latter is more worried as his fiancé is getting beaten black and blue.
Kuroka: Don't worry about them getting hurt, I'll heal them back to health if they go overboard nya~
Rinko: I know you can do that but...I still can't bear to see Riku getting beaten like this.
Kuroka: This is his duty nya. The only thing that you can do is to be there and support him.
Rinko watched the duel in silence, nodding. We return to Riku and Meiling, who both accelerated above their normal speed as Riku waited for Meiling's rushes. When he eventually spotted a gap, he moved in on Meiling and struck her in the stomach with his palm, pushing the Chinese girl a few meters back.
As both combatants got a bit of breathing room, Riku then lets out a small smirk.
Riku: Since I managed to touch you....
Riku summoned the Divine Dividing and activated it's ability.
[Divide]
Then all of a sudden, Meiling felt her energy got sapped away as she fell on to one knee as she looked at Riku.
Meiling: W-What happened?
Riku: Divine Dividing. It's one of my new trump cards. Everything I touch within a ten second interval, I can take half of their energy and transfer it to mine.
Meiling: I see. If that's the case....HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!
Meiling began to gather qi around her as Riku tried to divide it, it didn't work.
Albion: [While you were monologuing, she started to gather qi without you knowing. And the ten second interval was up. But don't worry, with proper training, you can bypass the time limit and divide whenever you please.]
Riku: Noted. Don't monologue while using your power. Well, at least I got at least half of her power...let's try using a spell.
Albion: [Interesting, so you made a spell card based off of me? I'm quite honoured.]
Riku only chuckled as he took out a black spell card and Meiling was thinking the same idea. Both casted their spells as Riku was glowing in a radiant white light and Meiling is glowing in a bright scarlet color.
Meiling: Qi Sign: "Sky Piercing Scarlet Palm"!!!
Riku: Dragon Sign: "White Dragon Crushing Claw"!!!!
Riku's right arm transformed into a dragonic like claw covered in white lightning whereas Meiling's right palm was glowing in a bright scarlet color. Both fighters closed in on each other, and as they made contact....
*BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!!!!!!!*
A loud explosion happened at the collision as Kuroka increased the barriers durability to the max to protect Rinko. The entire training room was filled in smoke as the rooms ventilator started to activate to suck out the smoke.
Then all of a sudden, Miyu, Eli and Tina arrived as they heard the explosion.
Miyu: What just happened!?
Eli: We heard an explosion coming from here.
Tina: Rinko-onee-san, what happened here?
Rinko then pointed at the place where Riku and Meiling collided, and as the smoke started to settle, the girls were in shock to see both Riku and Meiling on the ground unconscious.
Miyu: Riku-san!
Eli: Riku!
Both Eli and Miyu rushed to their fiancé's side and Kuroka lifted the barrier and Rinko followed soon after. Tina went to Kuroka as she asked what happened.
Tina: What happened here, Kuroka-san?
Kuroka: Their spell cards clashed and this is the result. I didn't expect that the match will end in a draw. Well, Riku is making progress with the Divine Dividing, so it can be counted as a win.
Tina only nodded as she looked at Riku who was still knocked out while his fiancé's were beside him.
Eli: He's all bruised up.
Miyu: I thought this was just a friendly spar?
Rinko: Riku did tell me beforehand that he spars....a bit extreme.
Eli: And why didn't you stop him?
Rinko: Because I believe that Riku won't go too far. Although.....these two might've took it too far.....
The three girls carefully looked around the training room and it was a mess. The floor is filled with craters, the walls have cracks on them and some of the light bulbs were broken as well. Seeing the damage caused by the two got Eli and Miyu agree with Rinko.
Riku: Hey there you three.
Rinko, Miyu and Eli looked down and they saw Riku already woke up.
Rinko: How're you holding up, Riku?
Riku: My body is sore, can't get up and I'm hungry. I want some food.
The girls giggled at Riku's request, and beside them, Meiling also just woke up.
Meiling: So our fight ended in a draw.
Riku: Yeah. How're you faring?
Meiling: Aside from being exhausted, I can't feel my right arm. And I might've broken several bones...mostly ribs...
Riku: Sorry about that.....
Meiling: Nah it's fine. Just give me three days and I'm good as new.
Kuroka: Why wait for three days, instead you can be good as new right now.
Both Riku and Meiling turned and saw Kuroka walking to them.
Riku: Sorry you had to see me in this kind of state.
Kuroka: Nah, I think I'll get used to it. In fact, I might fall for you if you keep this going~
Kuroka lightly teased Riku that she might fall in love with him, resulting in Rinko, Eli and Miyu looked at the nekoshou as if a new challenger was approaching them.
Riku: Can you be serious for a while?
Kuroka: Alright alright, sheesh. Can't take a joke can ya?
Kuroka then snapped her fingers as a magic circle appeared below Riku and Meiling. And at that moment, both of their bruises were slowly fading as well as their lost stamina.
As they were now fully recovered, Riku slowly got up as Eli was helping him.
Riku: That was impressive, Kuroka.
Kuroka: I have to thank Byakuren-sama for that. She taught me how to use that spell and several others that fit for a nekoshou like me~
Riku: Glad that Byakuren-sama helped you with that. Anyway, shall we end our training today? Meiling-san?
Riku called Meiling who was holding her phone as she was at her bag on the side of the room. As she heard Riku calling him, she turned off her phone and answered him.
Meiling: Sure, let's end the training for today. And just in time, Sakuya-san called me and told me that Patchouli-sama is having a fight with Marisa again.
Riku: Again? Let me guess, is she "borrowing" Patchy's books again?
Meiling: I'm afraid so.
Riku only sighed a he snapped his fingers as a teleportation circle appeared below Meiling.
Riku: Very well, you may teleport your way back to the Koumakan. You have my permission. Say hello to Patchy for me.
Meiling: Thank you very much, Riku-sama! See you again on Tuesday!
Meiling bowed to Riku as she teleported away from the estate.
Rinko: Riku, What did you meant by Kirisame-san "borrowing" books?
Riku: Well, if you didn't know, Patchy is known as the The Unmoving Great Library. Any information that there is to know about magic, she has it. And with Marisa being a magician, she finds Patchy's books a great source of research. So she "borrows" some of the books and hasn't returned them ever since.
Miyu: Isn't that stealing?
Riku: To Marisa's words "I'm not stealing it, I'm just borrowing this. I'll return these when I'm dead".
Riku's fiancé's, Tina and Kuroka sweat dropped to Riku's words as they were convinced that Marisa is just blatantly stealing Patchouli's books from her library.
Eli: So Meiling-san returned because of that?
Riku: Yeah. Marisa can snatch a book or few from the library, but whenever Meiling-san is around, she had no chance getting in. She isn't called the Immovable Demon Gate for nothing.
Kuroka: Now that I noticed, some of you Gensokyo natives have some sort of titles or something. What's up with that?
Riku: They're kinda like our nicknames of sorts. These names have a certain authority or impact on how we lived our life. For example, Yuyuko-san's title is Ghost Princess of the Netherworld, or Eirin-san's Brain of the Moon.
Tina: Do you have a title as well, onii-san?
Riku: I do have one. And my title might change at the gathering. But for now, my title is Vessel of the Dragon God.
Kuroka: Vessel huh? It totally fits you.
Rinko: What about Kyoya-san? Does he have one as well?
Riku: He does have one, but he inherited the title from my grandmother after she died. He is called the Emissary of the Dragon Palace.
Kuroka: I see.
Riku: Anyway, you girls can go ahead. I'll stay here for a while.
Rinko: Are you planning on cleaning up the entire room?
Riku: Kinda.....I'm just going to clean up the debris and I'll let the repair team do the rest.
Miyu: Then let us help you. The cleaning would be faster if we help.
Eli: And besides, we have nothing to do for the rest of the day. At the very least we can do is to lessen your load.
Riku: Then I'll accept your offer. Rinko, do you want to join in too?
Rinko: Of course I would join in too. What about Kuroka-san and Tina-chan?
Kuroka: Thanks but no thanks. I have a meditation session coming up in a few minutes. But I'll tell your grandfather on what happened here.
Riku: Alright. What about you, Tina?
Tina: I can help.....though you guys have already got it covered.
Riku: Nonsense, the more people we have, the faster we can finish. And besides, you can train your enhancement magic by lifting those boulders over there.
Riku pointed to several boulders that were split into pieces due to Meiling, and Tina understood what Riku meant and nodded.
Riku: You can go ahead, Kuroka. And as for the rest of us, let's finish this before dinner.
Rinko/Eli/Miyu/Tina: Hai!
Riku: But first things first.
Riku then gave his three fiancé's some gloves that came from the drawer on the side of the room.
Riku: Wear those. I don't want your hands to get dirty, or get injured.
Eli: That's very thoughtful of you.
Riku: Thanks. But anyway, let's get started.
The next day....
Live House CiRCLE
July 5, 2021 - Monday - 4:30 P.M.
Riku POV
I'm waiting for the others to arrive at CiRCLE today, one day after my first practice with my improvised band and my sparring session with Meiling-san.
Aya and Hatae were with Megumu-san because they were summoned to their monthly tengus meeting, so it's just Marina and me right now.
When the door opened while I was occupied with my own tasks, Mafuyu and the other 25-ji were there. The fact that Mafuyu was carrying Kanade by her side like a bag of potatoes is what really startled me.
Riku: I would like to say welcome but.....why is Mafuyu carrying Kanade like that?
Ena: Kanade tired herself out halfway here, so Mafuyu suggested to carry her.
Riku: A thoughtful idea...however....I didn't expect that she'll carry Kanade like that.
Mizuki: It's either that or she carries Kanade on her shoulders.
Mafuyu: And she's very light, so I have no problem in carrying her.
I scratched my head as Mafuyu bluntly said that while Kanade was blushing. So I decided not to ask any further.
Riku: Anyway, what brings you here?
Ena: We would like to practice here, if that's fine with you.
Riku: I don't mind. But.....with Kanade like that....
Mizuki: Don't worry Riku-san~ We'll make sure that Kanade's good.
Riku: Hmmmm...very well, you can go to Studio 5.
Mafuyu: Thanks for letting us practice here, nii-san.
Riku: I would appreciate it if you could drop off Kanade.
Mafuyu did what I said as she dropped Kanade gently.
Riku: Mizuki. I would like to have a word with you.
Ena and the others wanted to ask why I asked Mizuki to stay, but Mizuki told them that it'll be okay. So Ena and the others headed to Studio 5 as it's just me and Mizuki.
Mizuki: So Riku-san, what do you want to talk about?
Riku: How long are you gonna keep that a secret?
I blankly looked at Mizuki. As Mizuki was smiling, Mizuki slowly realized what I meant as Mizuki's face slowly changed, from a joyful face turned to a face of absolute shock and dread. I can see Mizuki visibly shaking as well.
Mizuki: H-How did you-
Riku: Remember that I'm part youkai. I can tell from your atmosphere. And I'm impressed that you managed to keep it long.
Mizuki's expression turned darker as Mizuki asked me if I would tell this to Kanade and the others. But I can feel the fear in Mizuki's voice.
Mizuki: S-so.....are you gonna tell this to Ena and the others?
Riku: No.
Mizuki: Eh?
Mizuki looked at me in disbelief. If it was any other person, they would blab that secret without a care in the world, but I'm different.
Riku: That is your secret to tell, not mine. And don't worry about it. Until you're ready to say it, your secret's safe with me.
Mizuki: How can I trust you?
Riku: Trust me, I know how to keep a secret or two. And unlike some, I know when to keep my mouth shut.
When Mizuki heard that I would keep the secret hidden, Mizuki's heavy atmosphere started to lighten up. But Mizuki didn't expect the bomb I dropped.
Riku: By the way, Mafuyu also knows it.
Mizuki: SHE KNEW?! HOW?!
Riku: She's half youkai remember? And you can trust her too. She can keep your secret safe.
Mizuki: I....I-
Riku: Mizuki. Mafuyu's your friend, right?
Mizuki slowly nodded as I continue.
Riku: Then trust her. And not just her, trust in Kanade and Ena as well.
Mizuki: But.....how do I know if I could trust them with my secret?
Riku: That's the thing, you don't. You don't have to know, you have to feel it. They're your friends, and friends stick to each other no matter what happens.
Mizuki looked down as Mizuki was making a decision.
Riku: But, if you're still not sure on what to do or if you wanted something out of your system, you can always come to me and talk it out. We can talk it out while we're having a cup of coffee.
Mizuki: I....thank you.....I'll take up on the offer but....I think I can do this on my own.
Riku: I see. You can go ahead and return to your friends. Good luck, Mizuki.
Mizuki nodded as Mizuki headed to the studio where Kanade and the others were. And right on time, Rinko and the other girls arrived along with their instruments.
Rinko: Sorry we took a while.
Riku: It's fine. But I gotta ask, what took you girls so long? I did say practice starts at 4, right?
Kaoru: I humbly apologize for my tardiness, ani-sama. But I was set back as Kokoro was making plans for the festival.
Riku: What kind of plans?
Kaoru: She plans on running a stall. Everyone seemed to agree on it, but I had to gently refuse as I had my own agenda in which is what we're doing right now.
Riku: Did you tell Kokoro about this?
Kaoru: Not everything. I just told her that I have some plans with you and she seemed to let me go. But she did say that she wanted you to go to her stall once the festival starts.
Riku: I see. What about you three?
I turned my attention to Rinko, Rei and Maya as I want to hear the details on them being late.
Maya: Well.....Chisato-san kinda caught me red handed.....
I flinched slightly as Maya got caught by Chisato of all people.
Riku: And? What did you do?
Maya: I had to tell her...everything. But don't worry!! It's just Chisato-san!!
Riku: I know it's Chisato but.....I know that she won't let you go scott-free.
Maya: Well...she did say that if I tried to drag you down...she'll be coming for me....
I just gulped to what Maya said to me. With Chisato being a bit....clingy to me.....she might...no scratch that, she will do it.
Riku: I'll talk to Chisato if I have the time. What about you Rei?
Rei: Well.....me, Masuki, Rokka and PAREO were having a hard time giving Chu² a ba-
I stopped Rei halfway as I know what she's trying to say.
Riku: Stop. I already know what you're gonna say to me, and I don't want to know. What about you, Rinko? What's your excuse?
Rinko: Me and Roselia took Ako-chan to the dentist.
Riku: Huh? How?
Rinko: Rokka-san texted me that Ako-chan's teeth has been hurting since she got to school. So we had her checked out to a dentist. We also found out from Tomoe-san that Ako-chan ate too much candy yesterday.
Riku: She insisted to not call her a child and yet.....anyway, I'll let it slide for now. Let's head to the studio so we can start our practice.
The girls nodded as we head to a vacant studio so we can start our practice. After a few minutes of getting everything ready, we're at our places as we begin.
Riku: Let's continue where we left off. If you feel there is anything wrong, don't hesitate to tell me.
The girls nodded as I gave them the signal.
Riku: Let's begin.
Few Hours Later....
Nagae Estate - Riku's Room
9:30 P.M.
Surprisingly, there were no issues at all after our practice, thus I can declare it a success. To allow them to play without concern, we still need to make a few adjustments.
I immediately go to the training room to do some self-training after practice, and Rinko and I return to the estate. Additionally, I choose to train my senses by having several guns shoot live bullets equipped with silencers at me in all directions while I keep my eyes closed. This will help me improve on my Kenbonshoku.
I had dinner with everyone after that, and Mafuyu informed us that they had completed the song and would be uploading it tonight. When Rinko and Eli inquired about the song's title, Mafuyu said that it was called Bad Apple.
I'm currently in my room, facing my computer, playing NFO for a while. It is my responsibility as the guild's vice-captain to monitor the progress of other members' levels.
Riku: So Yukina and the others have increased their levels by a lot. I'm quite impressed that they managed to balance it out with their band duties.
I looked at the levels that Yukina and the other has and I was more than impressed.
OG.Yukina
Level - 80
Class - Bard
OG.Lisa
Level - 82
Class - Cleric
OG.Sayo
Level - 90
Class - Guardian
OG.Demon Princess Ako
Level - 99
Class - Summoner
OG.Rin-Rin
Level - 100
Class - Elestra
A huge leap in their levels compared to the last. They can at least join us in some dungeon runs now.
I also noticed that Rinko's class had changed. Elestra, eh? As I recall, one needs to be completely proficient in ice magic alone in order to be eligible for this class. Ice magic must be included among offensive, defensive, and support magic. Since there are at least 30 to 50 Elestra players worldwide, Elestras are somewhat uncommon in NFO. Although it is a good class, its drawback is that it produces damage that is so low that it is comparable to that of an Enchanter. On the plus side, is that Elestra's triples all debuff effects of spells whnwever their opponents get frozen, which can make anyone who face an Elestra a living hell. I mean it'll be a nightmare to face someone who can debuff your defenses by 80% or worse.
As I was doing my thing, I felt a slight pain in my head. I always get this feeling whenever Iku calls for me. If she's doing this now, it has to be very important. So, I reclined my chair as I close my eyes and sent myself to my mindscape.
Riku's Mindscape - Dragon Palace
I opened my eyes and I was at the Dragon Palace's main door where Iku is right now. I let out a sigh as I opened the door and as I got in, My eyes widened as I saw not only Iku, but Tenshi who was slowly getting up from her sleep.
Tenshi looked at me and showed a warm smile to me.
Tenshi: Good morning, Riku.
I just chuckled and made my way to her. I sat down beside her and gave her a head pat.
Riku: It's 9:30 in the evening you idiot. But I'm so happy that you're awake now.
Tenshi: So, what did I missed?
Riku: A lot.
Iku suddenly got up as she head to the door and looked at us with a smile.
Iku: I'm gonna give you some space. You two have a lot to talk about.
Both of us nodded as Iku left the room.
One storytelling later....
After I spent hours telling Tenshi about the events of the previous month, she merely grinned as I told her everything.
She suddenly grabbed me and gave me a hug after I told her everything that had transpired. All I could do was give the hug back. Tenshi and I ended the hug after a little while.
Tenshi: To think that a lot has happened while I was out.
Riku: You have no idea. Last month was....a lot to take in.
Tenshi: Too bad I wasn't there to see it all. But, congratulations Riku. Who would've thought that you'd get engaged to four girls.
Riku: I'm only yet engaged to three, Tenshi. My relationship with Rei isn't there yet.
Tenshi: I see. And I also wanted to point it out that Aichi finally had the guts to try to confess to Honoka and Umi.
Riku: Not yet. He'll confess to them once the Love Live Qualifiers is over.
Tenshi: Well, I'm happy for him if he pulls it off.
Riku: Then how bout you tell that to him yourself?
Tenshi: You know I can't, right?
Riku: Not without this.
I summoned the Divine Dividing in my right hand and that piqued Tenshi's interest as she touched the Longinus.
Tenshi: So this is the sacred gear that you told me....you're right. I can feel the dragonic energy coming from it. You told me that the dragon that was inside that is here, right? Where is he?
Riku: Iku told me that Albion is exploring my mindscape.
I took a quick side eye to the window as I sense that Albion is coming soon.
Riku: Anyway, there is another way for you to talk to Aichi aside from the sacred gear. But, you need to come with me for a bit. Can you get up?
Tenshi tried to get up but she felt her legs failing her.
Tenshi: Guess I can't get up just yet.
Riku: Guess I have no choice then.
I got up and carried Tenshi on my back, and headed to the place that I was talking about. When we finally reached the place, Tenshi looked at me in all seriousness.
Tenshi: Oi Riku. Are you sure about this?
Riku: I am. Me and Iku have thought of this one and hey, might as well take a gamble.
Tenshi: You do know that I could just royally screw you over if I have the chance, right?
Riku: I know you can do that, but I think you won't. I know you, and you know me.
Tenshi just chuckled and wrapped her arms on me a bit tight.
Tenshi: That's why I love you.
Tenshi then kissed me on the cheek. I blushed a bit and just sighed.
Riku: I love you too, Tenshi.
Though me and Tenshi butt heads most of the time and tried to kill each other at a daily basis, both of us love each other, but it is forbidden for fellow members of the Celestial Families to have a romantic relationship with each other as it'll upset the balance of power.
So in the end, me and Tenshi's relationship is VERY close to each other and it can be considered as a familial one, and I won't replace her for anything. She's kinda like my sun as I'm the moon to her.
Iku: So, you want to try it out?
Me and Tenshi looked back and we see Iku standing behind them with her arms folded.
Riku: Iku, you're here.
Iku: I got a feeling that you'll take Tenshi here in the main center of the Dragon Palace. Guess I was right. Place Tenshi over there. You can move your arms, right?
Tenshi only nodded as I place her on the vacant seat.
Iku: Place your hands on the panel and everything will do the rest.
Tenshi lightly sighed and placed her hands on the panel in front of her. Then suddenly, the panel glowed in alight violet shine. Then a huge monitor appeared in front of us and from there we see my room.
Tenshi: Is this-
Riku: Yeah. That's my room. This means that in this room, you basically control my whole body.
Iku: But for now, you can only see what's on the screen. Riku, call anyone to your room. I want to test something.
I just nodded and took the control from Tenshi.
Back to reality....
3rd POV
Riku felt that he's in control of his body again, so he grabbed the house phone and called in Youmu.
Riku: Youmu, come to my room for a bit. I want to talk to you about something.
Youmu: Hai. I'll be there in a moment.
Riku then hunged up the call as he waited for Youmu. And not a little than a few minutes, Youmu arrived.
Youmu: I'm here as you ordered me to. Is somethi- Riku-kun!!
But what Youmu didn't expect is that she saw Riku collapsed on the floor. She rushed to his side to see if he was okay.
Youmu: Riku-kun! Are you okay?!
???: Come on now Youmu, of course I'm alright~
Youmu knew right away that this was not Riku. She could tell from the sound of the voice that it wasn't him. Riku, who was actually Tenshi, attempted to persuade her to stop as Youmu called forth Roukanken and Hakurouken.
Riku(Tenshi): Wait! Wait! Wait! It's me! Tenshi!!!
Youmu's eyes widened from Tenshi's claim, she then carefully observed Riku as she can see Tenshi's aura surrounding him.
Youmu: Tenshi? But how? Riku-kun told us that you'll wake up at September?
Riku(Tenshi): I would've woken up in September if I wasn't at places with high spiritual power. Riku was at the Hakugyokurou, then at the Moriya Shrine, then the majority for my early wake up is his sacred gear.
Youmu quickly understood what Tenshi meant as she dismissed her swords and apologized to the Celestial.
Youmu: My apologies. I was worried on what happened to Riku-kun.
Riku(Tenshi): Don't worry about Riku, he's here with me along with Iku.
Youmu: I....I see....then, how does this work? Can Riku-kun talk to us while you're in control?
Riku: [Well, I can always use this.]
Riku summoned the Divine Dividing in his left hand as the gem glowed as Riku talked while Tenshi is in control of his body.
Youmu: Riku-kun!
Riku: [I'm alright Youmu. Now, the reason why I called you here is to test something. And looks like it did work.]
Youmu: What worked?
Riku: [Tenshi using her voice while she's in control of my body.]
Youmu: But why would you do that? Don't tell me-
Understanding it, Youmu realized that Riku and Tenshi were planning something. And it was obvious as both were chuckling mischievously.
Riku(Tenshi): Oh right, before I forget, keep it a secret until the festival.
Youmu: Heh? Why would I do that?
Riku: [Trust me, the surprise will be so worth it.]
Youmu simply gave up and sighed in agreement with them. When Youmu inquired about how Tenshi will present herself, Riku just said that she will be performing at the festival. When Youmu finally understands, she laughs. After saying good night, she walked out of the room.
Timeskip...
Kirigaya Kimono Shop
July 10, 2021- Saturday - 3:00 P.M.
Rinko POV
The Tanabata Festival is taking place today. And everyone can't wait to go. One obvious problem, though, is that we don't have any kimonos.
Riku and Kyoya-san were taken aback at learning about this. Eli-san, Mafuyu-san, and Tina-chan do not yet have kimonos, except for Miyu-chan, who already has one.
Kyoya-san then requested that Riku accompany us to the Kirigaya Kimono Shop. Kyoya-san responded that the Kirigaya and Nagae have a business relationship and that all of the formal attire owned by the Nagae came from them when I inquired why not 7 Rainbow.
And right now, me along with Eli-san, Mafuyu-san, Tina-chan and Riku arrived at the kimono shop. And right before we opened the door, the door opened and we see a girl of above average height who has long, wavy blonde hair and light-brown angular eyes. Her bangs part to her left and stop just at the eye.
She's wearing a light-blue jacket with a salmon colored hoodie underneath, along with a black shirt with the word "BLACK" going down vertically 3 times. She also wears short, dark blue shorts, along with white, red, black, and green sneakers. Her outfit is adorned with a necklace with a gold pendant, along with a thin, braided brown belt.
???: Oh! I'm sorry~ Are you here for- Oh! Riku!! What brings you here?! And you're surrounded by girls! Look at you man! Living the life ain't ya~
The girl was smacking Riku's back, but Riku didn't seem to mind.
Riku: Get your mind out of the gutter. I'm here to buy some kimono's for the girls, Touko.
Eli: Ummm...Riku...who is she?
Touko: Right! I forgot to introduce myself~ I'm Kirigaya Touko, first year student at Tsukinomori Girls Academy. My family owns this shop. So Riku, who are they?
Riku: The little one here is Tina.
Tina-chan bowed slightly as she introduced herself.
Tina: My name is Tina Alexeyev. It's a pleasure to meet you, Touko-onee-san.
Touko: Good to meet you too, Tina-chan~
Riku: Behind me is my sister, Mafuyu.
Mafuyu: Nagae Mafuyu. I'm a second year at Hanasakigawa Girls High School. Nice to meet you, Kirigaya-san.
Touko: You have a sister? Last time I heard, you're an only child.
Riku: A lot happened a few months ago. Moving on, on my left is Eli.
Eli: Ayase Eli. I'm a third year student and the student council president of Otonokizaka Girls High School.
Touko: Oh~ nice to meet you Eli-kaichou~
Eli: You can drop the "kaichou" please. Just call me by my name.
Touko: Well, if you say so.
Riku: And lastly, Shirokane Rinko.
Touko-san seemed surprised when Riku introduced me. I was confused as to why she had that face, but she explained why and we understood.
Touko: So you're Rinko. Looks like you really look like what she told us.
Rinko: You already know me?
Touko: Yup~ Rui did mention you and Riku after all.
Me and Riku's eyes widened when we found out that Touko-san knows Rui-chan.
Riku: You know Rui? As in Yashio Rui?
Touko: Sure do~ We go to the same school after all. Well, let's not dawdle around here, come in!!
We headed inside the store and we see nothing but kimonos of the highest quality. The patterns on them were extravagant and very mesmerizing to look at.
Touko-san stopped as she turned around and faced us with a smile~
Touko: Now then, let's get to business shall we?
Riku: Hm. I would like to purchase as kids size kimono and three regular size.
Touko: Easy enough~ How bout we get Tina-chan's kimono first? Come on! Let-
???: I'll take care of the little one, Touko.
We turned around and we see a mature woman with long Chestnut brown hair and hazel eyes, and she's wearing a silvery white kimono with a lily pattern.
Touko: Mama!
???: Oya~ It's been a while since I saw you here, Riku. The last time you came here is when Miku was still around.
Riku: Hai. It is indeed that long, Asuna-san.
Mafuyu: Nii-san, who is she?
Riku: Everyone, meet Kirigaya Asuna. She and Touko's grandmother owns this store. Tina, go ahead and follow Asuna-san.
(A/N: No, the Kirigaya in this ain't related to SAO. I named Touko's mom Asuna...well.....it kinda fits...)
Tina-chan only nodded as she followed Asuna-san while leaving us with Touko-san.
Touko: Well....since mama is busy with Tina-chan, let me take you to the regular aisle and let's see what you like~
We followed Touko-san to where the regular sized kimonos are.
Eli: Riku, is it alright to leave Tina-chan?
Riku: Asuna-san is taking care of the kids kimonos here.
Touko: Yup~ while mama take care of the kids, grandma is in charge of the elderly. Which leaves me with the regular ones.
Mafuyu: Wouldn't that be too difficult for you? With you being a student and all?
Touko: Don't mind~ Don't mind~ I'm already used to it. And besides, I'm gonna inherit the place once I graduated. And it's only this busy cause of the festival.
Riku: Hm. Well, here we are.
We finally reached the aisle where the regular sized kimonos are.
Touko: Alright girls, take your pick. And make sure you pick that suits you. I mean the festival starts in 3 hours.
Riku: Touko's right. We're on crunch time now. Just take what your heart tells you to.
Rinko/Eli/Mafuyu: Hai!
We left Riku so we can look for the kimono that suits us. Me, Eli-san and Mafuyu-san split up as we left Riku with Touko-san.
Riku POV
Rinko, Eli and Mafuyu left to find their ideal kimono leaving me with Touko. Touko looked at me as she showed me a genuine smile unlike her gyaru styled one.
Touko: I heard from mama that you got engaged. So, who's the lucky one? Is it Rinko? Or is it Eli?
Riku: You'll find out soon enough at the gathering in August. So for the meantime, I want to keep it under warps.
Touko: Fine then, keep your secrets. Say Riku, why is Rui like that?
I quietly closed my eyes as I sighed. I then opened them again and looked at Touko with a sad expression.
Riku: Ah....that, something happened years ago...
Touko: Did something happened between the two of you?
Riku: Just a personal matter.....how's Rui doing at school?
Touko: Since you asked me nicely, I'll tell you. She-
???: Touko-chan~ We're here~
Me and Touko looked by the entrance and four girls entered the store.
The first girl is a girl of average height with light blue eyes and shoulder-length bluish-white hair, her eyelines are also a fair amount lighter than most other characters, even when compared to characters with hair of a similar color. She typically supports a shy facial expression.
Her casual attire consists of a striped dark cyan dress with a white shirt underneath it adorned with a light indigo bow, along with ankle high socks and brown mary janes.
The second girl has pink eyes and peach pink hair that is slightly past shoulder-length. Part of her hair is put into twin tails with yellow thin ribbons or black hair ties depending on her outfit, and part of her bangs are swept to the side with black and white cat hairpin.
She wears a white long-sleeved shirt with a detailed collar and puffy sleeves, a pale pink button-up pinafore dress and a belt around her waist. Her outfit is completed with a small cross necklace.
The third girl is a short individual who has dark-purple hair and orange eyes. Her hair is often put into low twin tails.
Her clothes consists of a light yellow polka dot dress that goes down to about her knees, along with hair bows that have the same pattern. Her outfit is adorned with a thin pink belt, a black necklace with a gold pendant, white ankle high socks, and reddish-brown flats.
And the last girl has dark brown hair that goes just past chin-length and thin, brownish-red eyes. Her bangs are parted to her left and go down past her chin. Part of her bangs goes between her eyes, down to the base of her nose. Despite only being a high school student, she looks mature for her age.
Her outfit consists of a navy blue turtleneck sweater, a button up brown plaid skirt adorned with a gray belt, sheer tights and dark mauve high heels.
And seeing her made my eyes widen. When she saw me as well, her eyes widened in surprise as well.
Riku: Rui? Is that you, Rui?
Rui just looked at me quietly as the white haired girl asked her if she knew me.
???: Rui-san, he seems to know you.
Rui recollected herself and calmly answered her friend.
Rui: I do know him. We are....childhood friends.
Touko: Shiro! Everyone, you're here! Did you come here to rent some kimono's?
???: Well, Shiro-chan wanted to go to the festival wearing one, so we might as well go here and rent one for her~
The peach pink haired girl said a bit lazily. The way she talked is likely similar to Moca.
???: Ummm.....Touko-chan, are you gonna introduce him to us or what?
The short girl told Touko that as I was behind her watching them talk. Then she remembered that I was here the whole time.
Touko: Oh right! I totally forgot! Girls, meet Riku. The one that Rui talked about.
Riku: Nice to meet you girls, I'm Nagae Riku.
Mashiro: P-Please to meet you.....I'm Kurata Mashiro....
I carefully observed Mashiro as to why she was shaking a bit, then I nodded and bluntly said my opinion.
Riku: She really has low self-esteem, am I right?
And to my words, I can literally see a huge arrow hit Mashiro as if the words I said hit her hard. And I can see her struggling to stand up from my blunt opinion.
Touko: Wow, Rui did say that you can be blunt but...
Tsukushi: I didn't expect that he would be this blunt....anyway, My name is Futaba Tsukushi. Pleased to make your acquaintance, Nagae-san.
Riku: You can call me Riku. Calling me by my family name makes me a bit.....uneasy.
???: That's what Rui-Rui told us about you. Ah...right. I'm Hiromachi Nanami~
Riku: Hm. So these are your friends, Touko. So that means that they go to the same school as you.
Touko: Yup~ and all of us are first years.
Riku: I see. Touko, you can go ahead with the others, I would like to have a talk with Rui.
The room became a bit tense as me and Rui were staring each other. Touko looked at us and went her way to get the other three.
Touko: Shiro, Nanami, Fuusuke. Let's leave them for a while.
Mashiro: Touko-chan, are you sure it's alright to leave them alone? Rui-san felt like she didn't want to talk to him.
Touko: They'll have to talk to each other at some point. Now come on! We gotta pick a Kimono for you!
Touko took Mashiro, Nanami and Tsukushi and it's just me and Rui.
Riku: Let's talk somewhere else, shall we?
Rui: I suppose so. It is the most logical choice to have our conversation elsewhere.
Riku: Hm. Hold on a moment, I'll message Rinko about this.
Rui: She's here too?
Riku: Rinko's with me to buy a kimono for her.
Rui: But is it alright to leave her here, while we have a talk?
Riku: I'm sure she'll understand. And since it's with you, she'll get it in a heartbeat.
As I said that, I sent a message to Rinko. And after a few seconds of sending the message, Rinko replied and told me that I can go ahead and she'll tell the others about it.
Riku: Rinko gave us the green light. I know a place where we can talk.
Rui only nodded as we left the shop and head to the place I told her.
A little longer than a few minutes later...
Hazawa Coffee
3:45 P.M.
Me and Rui reached Hazawa Coffee. And as to why I picked this place, well....grandfather told me to try to come here once and now I did. Me and Rui entered the coffee shop and we were welcomed by....
Eve: Welcome to Hazawa Coffee! How may I- Riku-san! Welcome!! I think this is the first time you've come here!!
We were welcomed by Eve, who is wearing that is supposedly the uniform of Hazawa Coffee.
Riku: Eve? I didn't know you work here.
Eve: Well now you know! Are? Who is the girl behind you? Don't tell me-
Riku: It's not what you think it is. She's a friend of mine. And we're here to have a talk...it's been long since we saw each other.
Eve: Oh~ I see now! Very well, allow me to take you two to your seats!
Eve took me and Rui to a table where it's placed at the cafe window, kinda fitting and a nice view of the outside. Me and Rui took our seats as Eve gave us the menu.
Riku: I'll have an espresso and a slice of blueberry cheesecake.
Rui: I'll just have an apple pie.
Eve wrote down our orders and left. Silence filled the room as me and Rui hadn't said a thing. But after a few seconds of silence, Rui was the first to speak.
Rui: Why?
Riku: Hm? Why what?
Rui: Why are you still talking to me like nothing happened? After all what I said to you years ago....
Rui was referring to the one occasion, years ago, when she competed in a violin competition and lost. Although she made it to the top 4, she still lost. She thought she didn't have the talent to play the violin after that loss, but I attempted to reassure her that one setback doesn't signal the end. But rather than heeding my advice, she threw her frustrations at me.
Rinko tried to calm her down, but to no avail. And by accident, Rui told me that she shouldn't have met me nor Rinko in the first place. She ran after realizing her mistake, and she hasn't spoken to us or visited us since. Rinko tried to go after her, but I insisted not to. I told her that she needed time for herself when she questioned why.
I looked at Rui as she had that very sad look on her face. The face of guilt and regret. I sighed as I told Rui what I really feel.
Riku: You think that I would hate you just because you said those things to me?
Rui: Eh?
Riku: I understand your frustrations from that loss. It's normal for you to lash out, several people tend to do that as well.
Rui: You don't understand...you're talented, you have the skills....and you can't lose.
Riku: Who says I never lost?
When Rui learned that I had lost, her eyes widened, and I could see that she was attempting to deny it with trembling hands. Rui considered me to be her idol. A flawless individual with no imperfections at all. She even begged me to teach her how I play the violin after learning that I could do it in four days, and I've been doing so up until that point.
Rui: No...you're joking, right?
I didn't say anything as I took out my phone and opened a certain video and showed her what I meant by that.
Rui: What is this?
Riku: It's a video of a tournament that I joined with a band. You know The International, right?
Rui: No. I had no interest in those kinds of things....
Riku: I see. Then it's basically the biggest band tournament in the world and only 16 bands gets the chance to compete. You see, 6 years ago, I transitioned from classical music to modern music. I made a name for myself by participating in solo tournaments as a guitarist. That is until OG recruited me and made their rhythm guitarist.
Rui was just looking at me in shock. She didn't know that I switched from classical to modern, let alone that I joined a band.
Riku: The video that I'm about to show you is one of my worst moments of my career as a musician.
Rui stared in silence while I played the video. I showed her the video of OG vs. LGD Music in round three of the TI7 Lower Bracket.
I simply closed my eyes and listened to the video in silence. All of the events from that time are still fresh in my memory.
"The end is nigh! GG is called! LGD has slain the beast!! They move on!! And a bitter pill to swallow...for OG."
When I opened my eyes, I saw Rui's shocked expression. She was attempting to process everything she had seen, even though she was trembling, and then she glanced at me and spoke weakly.
Rui: What happened to you?
Riku: I blanked out. I thought I could make a comeback from my talent alone.....and it backfired hard...as you can see.
Rui: What happened after that loss?
Riku: I left the band to have some time to reflect and put me on the inactive list. My captain suggested it that I should do something else aside from music, and I did just that. Then with TI8 coming along, OG called me back and we won our first TI.
Rui's atmosphere lightened when she heard that I won. And right before we continue, Eve showed up with our orders.
Eve: Here are your orders!
Eve placed our orders on the table then left us to continue her work.
Riku: Moving on, after my win at TI8, everything went for the worse.
Rui: For the- you mean that-
Riku: Yeah, right after I won TI, my parents died. And a week after that, Tenshi died.
Rui grimaced as she remembered of my parents and Tenshi's passing, as it was national news at that time.
Riku: With their deaths, I took a time off with the band again. But.....I'm also having thoughts on giving up on music completely because of it.
Rui grabbed my left hand as I can feel she's losing her idol, but I placed my right hand on top of her hands to assure her.
Riku: Don't worry, with the help of Yuyuko-san and a few others, I managed to get over it and decided to play in their memory and I still do it to this day. And I won 2 more TI's after that. Right now, I'm on break.
Rui: Ri-...Rikkun.....I didn't know you had to go through things like that...
She called me "Rikkun"....to think she would call me by that name. Been a long time since she called me that.
Riku: Life can be very unpredictable Rui. We can only anticipate what it can throw at us. And I got the short end of the stick with that. But enough about me, what about you? How you've been doing after all of that?
I took a sip of my espresso as Rui tells her side.
Rui: After of our fallout, I haven't touched the violin for years. Playing it just reminded me of that time....and it scares me...until several months ago.
Riku: I can tell it changed you for the better.
Rui: Hm. You could say that. I'm currently in a band as their violinist.
My eyebrows raised up as I heard that Rui is in a band and as a violinist. A very rare role in modern music, but it does pique my interest.
Riku: So, who are your band mates?
Rui: You've already met them.
Riku: I've met the- you don't mean?
Rui: Yes. Kirigaya-san is the guitarist, Futaba-san is the drummer, Hiromachi-san is the bassist and Kurata-san is the vocalist.
Riku: Ho...I want to ask, what made you play the violin again? I thought it would remind you of that time whenever you play it.
Rui: True, it does still remind me of that day, but I want to move on from that and I.....I want to have those days again...with you and Rin-chan together....
I can tell Rui missed those times after hearing that, and I agree with her. I can still clearly recall the day when Rui played the violin and Rinko played the piano while I listen in as I was teaching the both of them. Simply living in the moment with no worries at all.
I got up from my seat as I approached Rui. I then gave her a hug as I pat her head.
Riku: We can go back to those days if you wanted to, Rui.
Rui then accepted the hug as she tired not to cry. Eve then showed up to see what's up and she saw me hugging Rui, she nearly said that I was cheating on Rinko.
Eve: Riku-san! You're hugging another girl!? That is unaccepta- Ow!
I broke the hug and flicked Eve's forehead.
Riku: Don't get any ideas. I forgot to introduce her to you. Eve, meet Rui. My childhood friend.
Eve: Eh?
Rui recollected herself as she introduced herself in the most formal matter.
Rui: I am Yashio Rui. I'm Riku's childhood friend and I learn the violin from him.
Eve: Oh~ so that's how it is! I'm Wakamiya Eve! I'm Riku-san's friend and a second year student of Hanasakigawa Girls High School. Riku-san, how come we haven't heard of her if she's your childhood friend?
Riku: There were some.....things happened. But don't worry, I think we kinda patched it up today.
Rinko: I'm glad that you two managed to make up.
Me and Rui turned to the right and we see Rinko along with Eli, Tina and Mafuyu. And alongside them were Touko and her friends as well.
Riku: Rinko, you're here. And you brought everyone else as well.
Rinko: After you sent me that message, Eli-san and Mafuyu-san were curious as well. So I ended up telling them. Tina-chan was finished with her kimono and already got hers, so she came along with us.
Riku: I see, and what made you come here? Me and Rui were planning to come back once we're done.
Touko: I kinda suggested that we go. And as to how we knew you two were here, I asked the people around.
Nanami: Rui-Rui, are you alright?
Rui: I'm alright, Hiromachi-san. I just felt like a huge load was taken off of me.
Rinko: And I'm happy to see you settle it. And It's been long, Rui-chan.
Rui then went to Rinko and hugged her from out of nowhere. Rui's friends were shocked seeing her doing that is so out of character, but Rui didn't care.
Rui: I missed you so much...Rin-chan.....
Touko tried to tease Rui, but I stopped her from ruining the moment. After a brief moment, the two broke the hug and Rinko was looking at Rui with a smile on her face.
Rinko: You've grown so much. And you've made friends that you can have your back, and you joined a band too. I'm so proud of you.
Rui: Thank you, Rin-chan. I take that Kirigaya-san and the others introduced themselves, right?
Rinko: They did. And you got some very interesting friends.
Riku: They sure are interesting. Rui, I would like to meet some of the girls to you. Tina, how about you go first.
Tina: *nods* Tina Alexeyev. I've been under onii-san's care for a few months now. Let's get along, onee-san.
Riku: This is Mafuyu. Mafuyu, introduce yourself. And you can trust them.
Mafuyu nodded as she understood what I meant, her mask fell off and her eyes that were full of life turned dull, making Rui and her friends feel a bit afraid, even Eli.
Mafuyu: Nagae Mafuyu. I'm nii-san's half-sister. Sorry that I introduced myself like this.
Mafuyu introduced herself in the most blunt way possible, even Mashiro started to hide behind Touko.
Rui: Riku.....what happened to her? And how is she your half-sibling?
Riku: Mafuyu had a very.....strict childhood. And as to how she became my half-sister, it's a Nagae matter. Unfortunately, I can't just tell you right here.
Rui: I see. And who is the other one behind you?
Riku: Right.....this is Ayase Eli. A third year student at Otonokizaka.
And as I introduced everyone to Rui, the door opened and Tsugumi arrived.
Tsugumi: Riku-san! I'm so glad that you came to visit this place! You brought Rinko-san, Tina-chan and Eli-san too!
Riku: Hey there, Tsugumi. I gotta say, your espresso here is good.
Tsugumi: Thank you for the compliment, Riku-san! I take that Eve-chan didn't bother you?
Riku: She's quite capable to say the least. Although she has to tone down a bit.
Tsugumi: I'll talk to Eve-chan about it. Anyway, Riku-san. Are you going to the Tanabata Festival tonight?
Riku: I'm planning to go. But I have something else planned there, so I can't come along with you girls.
Tsugumi: I-I see....Ran-chan did say that she wanted to spend her time with you.
Riku: Tell her I'm sorry, I'll try to make it up to her.
Rui: You're going to the festival as well?
Riku: I mean, what other reason do I have to be at Touko's shop other than buying kimono's for my sister and fiancé's.
Rui: Wait, fiancé's? Plural?
Riku: This'll take a while. Tsugumi, how long is this place open?
Tsugumi: Well.....we're gonna close the shop early cause of the festival, sorry.
Riku: I see, here's the payment for our orders.
I gave the money to Tsugumi and she happily accepted it. I told the girls to continue at the estate and Rui told me that this will be Mashiro's first time going there.
A few hours later...
Tanabata Festival Grounds
7:00 P.M.
3rd POV
Following their departure from Hazawa Coffee, Riku and the others immediately head to the Nagae Estate. Since it was Mashiro's first time visiting a high-class home and, to top it off, a boy's home, she made an effort to keep herself together when they arrived.
Kyoya and Eiji welcomed them as soon as they entered. Then, since Rui hadn't been there in a very long time, Kyoya welcomed her back.
They went to the living room after meeting Riku's grandfather, and Riku made the decision to tell them everything.
The lengthy discussion took approximately an hour to complete. The Celestial Family's scheme, his real origins as a youkai, and his engagement to Rinko, Miyu, and Eli. And Riku showed some of his powers in front of them to demonstrate that prove them he that was a youkai.
The Tsukinomori girls, particularly Rui, were incredulously shocked. They took a long time to process it all. Mashiro had the worst; she was trembling the entire time. However, she began to trust me once I persuaded her.
Touko and Tsukushi were shocked at first, but that shocked turned into trust cause I'm Rui's friend.
But Nanami was another case. When Riku revealed that youkai do exist, she wanted to meet more. Riku asked her friends why, and Rui answered that Nanami is a very superstitious girl.
And as for the fact that Riku is engaged to three girls at the same time, they were kinda disgusted as to how it ended up that way, but relieved as they heard the rules.
When Riku inquired about the formation of Rui's band, Touko replied that Mashiro was motivated by Kasumi's performance months ago before I came here. In order to overcome her awkwardness around people, Mashiro also desired to form a band. When Riku inquired about their band's name, Mashiro said that it was Morfonica.
Riku then added that if Mashiro and her band needs any kind of help, they can go to Riku for help in which they appreciate it fully.
In order for Rui and the other girls to prepare for the festival, Riku asked Ayabe to accompany them to their house after the talk.
Riku then inquired about his friends' plans to attend the festival. Naturally, locals from Gensokyo are also visiting. However, Keigo informed Riku over the phone that they would not be attending because the Sunset Stage was only a few days away. Riku also called Aoi if she and Rondo can come, but she told him that she and her group have a gig in one of the clubs in Yokohama.
Since today is their rest day, Aichi and the rest of μ's are also going. Furthermore, the instruments Riku and the others will be using have already been transported to the performance stage.
At the moment, they are at the location of the festival. Riku is dressed in dark brown trousers, black timbs, a scarf, and a black jacket with a white shirt underneath.
Rinko's kimono is a black kimono with violet linings and a orchid pattern. Eli's kimono is a sky blue colored one with a cloud pattern. Mafuyu's kimono is a dark violet one that matches her hair with white linings and a koi fish pattern. Miyu's kimono is a Sakura pink colored kimono with dark pink linings and a Sakura pattern on it. And lastly, Tina's Kimono is an ocean blue colored kimono with an ocean wave pattern.
As they got to the venue, they saw foot stalls left and right and Riku could barely count on how many of them are in the venue.
Rinko: This is...a lot.
Riku: It's Yuyuko-san....remember that she's in charge.
Rinko: Oh....right.
Miyu: But still, this is a lot. It's hard to choose on what to try.
Riku: Hm....how about we try Kokoro's stall? Kaoru did tell me that Kokoro and the rest of HaroHapi are setting up a stall here.
Yuyuko: Riku-kun~! Yaho~!!
Riku and the girls turned to where the voice came from and it was Yuyuko along with Youmu behind her.
Yuyuko: I'm glad that you came here at the festival, Riku-kun.
Riku: It's been a long time since I came to a festival. I can sense a lot of youkai here.
Yuyuko: That's because majority of the stall owners here are youkai~ Though the normal populace don't know that yet. Now Riku-kun, are you ready for your performance?
Riku: More than ready. And trust me, you'll be in for a surprise.
Yuyuko: Ufufufufufu~ I'll be looking forward to it.
Yuyuko and Youmu left as Riku and the girls head to Kokoro's stall. When they got to the stall, they see Kokoro, Kanon and Hagumi selling croquettes. And the line is fairly long.
Kokoro: Ah! Onii-chan!! Welcome!!
Kokoro greeted us as she left the selling of the croquettes to Hagumi and Kanon. And right out of the bat, she rushed to Riku and hugged him very tight.
Riku: Kokoro, too tight.
Kokoro loosened the grip of her hug as she looked at Riku with an innocent face.
Riku: Say Kokoro, why did you want to start up a stall in the first place?
Kokoro: Well, Hagumi wanted to sell some croquettes for her family. I overheard it and I wanted to help. The suits helped us how to cook so we can help Hagumi faster.
Riku: And what does Kanon and Misaki have a say in this?
Kokoro: Misaki agreed to it immediately. Kanon wanted to help too.
Riku then thought that Kanon is working as a cashier at a fast food restaurant. Good thinking that they're using Kanon's experience.
Riku: I see. Where's Kaoru?
Kokoro: She's helping us with the supplies at the back. Don't worry, I didn't tell anyone in what you and Kaoru are planning.
Riku: Thanks for keeping it under wraps Then if you don't mind, can we get some croquettes?
Kokoro: Absolutely!!! Misaki!! Hagumi!! Croquettes for six!!
To Kokoro's words, Misaki and Hagumi who overheard it went straight to work. Misaki was in charge of the coating of the croquette while Hagumi is taking care of the frying. It took a few minutes to finish cooking it, and after a bit of waiting, Kokoro arrived with the croquettes with a bright smile. Riku then paid the food to Kanon and as he left the stall, he already saw Rinko and the girls eating their croquettes.
Riku saw the girls were enjoying it, so RIku took a bite and this is what he has to say.
Riku: The meat is moist and tender, it ain't raw in the center. The coating has that perfect crunch too. A pity there were no spicy options. But still a good croquette.
Riku then looked at Kokoro's stall as she was serving the people coming to their stall with a smile on her face. Riku smiled as he saw his little sister is having fun in what she's doing.
As Riku and the girls were enjoying the festival, he first met Pastel*Palettes, Chisato asked Riku to have a talk with him alone and Riku complied.
When they got the chance to be alone, Riku asked Chisato on how much did Maya told her, and Chisato was told of everything that there is to know.
Riku asked Chisato to keep it a secret till later tonight and Chisato promised not to tell anyone. But in exchange, Riku has to help PasuPare with their practice if he had the time and he accepted the conditions.
After meeting PasuPare, they met up with Poppin'Party along with Rokka, Masuki and Rei. Riku asked to where his cousin is and Rei told them that she wasn't interested coming and Reona had to stay to keep an eye on her.
Riku asked Rei if she wanted to join them, Rei tried to refuse but Masuki insisted on her joining them.
Kasumi asked Riku on where to try some good food and he said that if they haven't tried Kokoro's stall, then that's the place to go, in which they haven't gone to. She then took Mafuyu with them and Riku just said to her to enjoy the festival.
Miyu then separated from Riku and the girls as her friends from Lyrical Lily showed up and we're enjoying the festival.
Riku and the rest met up with Ran and Afterglow who were at the takoyaki stall. Moca insisted Riku to have some, but Riku refused as he was saving up space on his food options.
Ran then asked Riku on why he can't hang out with her tonight and he said that she'll have just to wait till later tonight.
After talking with Ran, Riku met up with Yukina and the girls of Roselia as they were having a chat with the girls of μ's. Honoka complimented Eli to how beautiful the kimono she had and Nozomi asked if Riku was the one who picked it.
Eli said that it was her choice and Riku was the one who paid for it. Riku then asked where Aichi is, Maki then said that he was buying some food for Kotori.
Hours passed since the festival started and the people we're enjoying themselves. He even saw Yuugi and Suika enjoying their drinks with other people, he even saw the Moriya trio enjoying their time.
As Riku looked at his watch and it's 10:30 P.M., Riku knew that it's almost time. As he made his way to the stage, Rinko, Rei, Maya and Kaoru were already there waiting for him and they changed from their kimonos to clothes that they're comfortable with when they play.
Riku: You girls ready?
Kaoru: The time for our performance is upon us. I swear that I will not disappoint you, ani-sama.
Maya: I'll do my best!
Rei: We're more than ready.
Rinko: Just say the word, Riku.
Riku then looked at the girls as he nodded.
Riku: Very well, let's get everything ready.
Riku and the girls head up the stage that is still covered by the curtain as they start tuning their instruments.
One setup later.....
11:00 P.M.
After minutes of setting up, Riku and the girls are ready to perform. With the help of Maya, their tuning got even more easier.
As they got to their places, some of the workers showed up as they were told to wait for Yuyuko's signal as she's giving her message to the people who were at the festival.
Meanwhile with Yuyuko....
Yuyuko is at the stage as she has a microphone on her hand as she gives her message to the people who came.
Yuyuko: Thank you for everyone who came here for the festival. As the one in charge of this festival and as the head of the Saigyouji Family, I thank you with all my heart.
Everyone was clapping to Yuyuko as she gave her thanks to everyone. Yuyuko then looked at them as she simply smiled at them.
Yuyuko: I know that each and every one of you had a great time here. But alas, the fun has to come to an end. However, we are not quite done just yet. To end this festival, allow me to give you a little treat.
Yuyuko snapped her fingers as the curtain was raised up and they see four girls and one boy who is in the center. But to the people who knew them, their expressions says it all.
With Poppin'Party
Kasumi: Senpai!? He's performing!?
Tae: Wow, didn't expect that.
Saaya: Who would've thought.
Rimi: Rinko-senpai is there with him.
Arisa: So is Yamato-san, Seta-san and LAYER-san.
With Afterglow
Ran: I see now. So that's why...
Moca: Are you feeling bad, Ran~
Ran: No, on the contrary, I'm excited. Nii-san gets to play again.
Tsugumi: So that's why Maya-san told me that she was busy....
Himari: HMMMPH!! HMMP! HMMMPH!!
Tomoe: Swallow your food before you talk, Himari.
With Pastel*Palettes
Aya: Eh!? Maya-chan is playing alongside Riku-kun!?
Hina: How come we didn't know!?
Chisato: It seems that onii-sama wants to keep this as a surprise.
Eve: And a surprise it is!! Like a Shinobi showing up out of nowhere and strike their targets in a flash!!
With Hello, Happy World!
Misaki: Kokoro, you knew that Riku-san and Kaoru-san will be performing?
Kokoro: Yup! But onii-chan told me to keep it a secret.
Hagumi: Aw man! It would've been awesome if we joined.
Kanon: Fueeeeeeeh...
With Roselia
Lisa: So their bassist is LAYER.
Sayo: A wise choice. She has the skills to back Riku-san up.
Yukina: Hm. Rinko, don't let us down.
Ako: You can do it Rin-Rin! Riku-nii!!
With Raise A Suilen
Masuki: Kill it out there, Rei!!
Rokka: Good luck, LAYER-san!
With Morfonica
Touko: Say Rui, we heard that Riku is in a band. Did you know which band?
Rui: All I can say he's a member of a well known band in Europe. But currently he's having a break.
Rui knew that Riku is a part of OG, but Rui decided to keep it to herself.
Tsukushi: Then he can be considered a world class musician?
Nanami: Shiro-chan, are you fine?~
Mashiro: I'm alright, Nanami-chan.....I just want to see how this goes.
Touko: You might get some insight?
Mashiro nodded as they wait for the performance to start.
With μ's
Honoka: Riku-san is performing!?
Umi: This is unexpected.
Kotori: Eli-chan, did you know he'll perform?
Eli: He didn't tell me. Not once.
Nico: Looks like he wanted to surprise us with it.
Nozomi: And it looks like it worked like a charm. Look around.
Maki: The people are getting hyped.
Hanayo: And with Riku-san's popularity...
Rin: This is gonna be good nya!!!
Aichi: As expected of Yuyuko-san.
With Lyrical Lily
Miyu: Riku-san and Rinko-san performing? No wonder they were busy for the past few days.
Haruna: You didn't know?
Miyu: No. I was concerned that they were tired every time they got home. And to think that it was all for this, then I'll let it slide.
Miiko: Isn't this the first time we get to see him perform?
Kurumi: You're right! We get to see you fiancé play, Miyu-chan!
Haruna: Kurumi-san and Miiko-san's right. I would get a chance to see why you fell for him.
With Leo/need and MORE MORE JUMP
Ichika: Owner-san?
Saki: No wonder he's at one of the studio's for several days.
Honami: An unexpected twist.
Shiho: But...will owner-san work well with them though?
Airi: We'll just see. He is a pro after all.
Minori: That's right! And we get to see him perform with lots of people.
Haruka: Shizuku, are you okay?
Haruka checked Shizuku who was just staring at Riku who was on stage, then all of a sudden, Len poked her cheeks as he manifested out of her phone.
Shizuku: Eh? Len?
Len: You were spacing out and you're just staring a Riku. Don't tell me....
Shizuku: Eh? No! It's not like that!!
Now back to Yuyuko
Yuyuko: This performance will be lead by my dear nephew. Riku-kun, I leave it to you.
Yuyuko stepped down as she left everything to Riku. Riku then held the mic as he introduced him and the girls to everyone.
Riku: Though we're just a makeshift band of different members of different bands....we'll make it work. Anyway, the members. Guitar, Seta Kaoru.
Kaoru did a few riffs as she winked to the crowd. Riku can hear that some of her fans are also here.
Riku: Bass, Wakana Rei.
Rei did a few strums as she bowed to the crowd.
Riku: Drums, Yamato Maya.
Maya then showed how it's done as she did a few beats as she tossed her drumsticks and catches it.
Riku: Keyboard, Shirokane Rinko.
Rinko then played a few keys as she introduced her fiancé to the people.
Rinko: And finally, guitar and vocal, Nagae Riku.
Riku raised his hand to stop the people from cheering. He then nodded to see if the girls are ready.
Riku: Let's get this going shall we? I'm still looking for the starry sky I saw with you....Yozora no Crayon.
Yozora no Crayon
(By: Mafumafu)
Sekaijuu no crayon wo furimaita yoru no ue
Kimi ni kikoenu you ni yozora e tsubuyaita
Nee gotaisou na story ya
Hokoreru you na mirai janakuttatte
Kimi to no asu wo sagashiteta hoshizora
Seiten no sora mo neshizumaru yoru na
Seijaku to kyou wa tanabata no yoru
Hoteru hoo wo kizukarenu you ni
Kimi no mae wo aruiteiru
Natsukaze tsukikage narenai geta no ne
Yozora ni hibiku
Sekaijuu no crayon wo furimaita yoru no ue
Sonna koi ni kizuku no wa sukoshi saki datta
Nee gotaisou na story ya
Hokoreru you na mirai janakuttatte
Kimi to no asu wo sagashiteta hoshizora
Meguriai wa itsuka no kiseki
Machiawase wa bokura no kiseki
Dono mirai mo wakatteiru koto wa
Dono mirai mo bokura no mae ni aru tte koto
Nakagami kakiwake furimuku shigusa ni
Mune wa takanatta
Seiga ni nesobette kataratte
Waraisou na kimi no yume
Toki no hakobune no naka kanata de tatazunda
Koi shitau kyoubi koukai
Ikudo no matsu you donna kanjou mo
Kimi no tonari de kizuketara yokatta na
Hajimete kanjita kimochi ni yuku ate wa nai yo
Donna riyuu de donna kotoba de donna kao shite
Kimi no te wo toreba iin darou
Sekaijuu no crayon wo furimaita yoru no ue
Kimi ni kikoenu you ni yozora e tsubuyaita
Nee gotaisou na story ya
Hokoreru you na mirai janakuttatte
Yume no tsuzuki wo sagashiteta
Sore wa saigo no kimi to mita hoshizora
Tentai no seisai wo kimi to aruita manten wo doukei wo
Mou koukai wa hitotsu datte shinai you ni
Hoshikuzu no furu yoru ni Kimi ni tsutaeru tame ni
Ai ni yuku yo yakusoku shiyo
As Riku and Kaoru finished playing their last part on the guitar, the entire crowd was silent. It's not because of Riku's song, but something else.
Riku and the girls looked behind them and they saw the night sky shining with stars on the heavens. Riku and the rest can't do nothing but to look at it in awe.
Some of the crowd took this chance and take pictures of the beautiful starry sky.....mostly Kasumi.
As Riku and the girls recollected themselves, Riku turned to the mic as he gets ready for the second song.
Riku: Now the next song will be.....a bit different. As to how different it is, you're about to find out.
Riku stepped out of the mic and turned to the girls.
Riku: Girls, I want you to trust me on this alright? I'll tell you the details once we finish.
The girls didn't say anything but nod as Riku closed his eyes. And once he opened them again, his blue left eye changed into a ruby red eye. Rinko was the first one to notice, but she decided to trust her beloved. But little did she know, Tenshi is now in control of Riku's body.
Tenshi then turned to the crowd as she used Riku's body to grab the mic.
Riku(Tenshi): Ight, sorry for the slight delay. Here's the second song...courtesy of my dear friend.....Ano Yume wo Nazotte.
Meanwhile at the crowd, Aichi who heard that widened his eyes, but even to more shock as he know that voice. He looked at Riku as he murmured his sister's name.
Aichi: Tenshi?
Ano Yume wo Nazotte
(By: YOASOBI)
Yoru no sora wo kazaru kirei na hana
Machi no koe wo gyutto hikari ga tsutsumikomu
Oto no nai futari dake no sekai de kikoeta kotoba wa
"Suki da yo"
Rinko and Kaoru were shocked as they heard the voice coming from Riku. They knew that it wasn't him, but they also knew that they're in the middle of a performance. So they decided to ask later and play now because they're about to start.
Yume no naka de mieta mirai no koto
Natsu no yoru, kimi to, narabu kage ga futatsu
Saigo no hanabi ga sora ni nobotte kietara
Sore wo aizu ni
Itsumo doori no asa ni
Itsumo doori no kimi no sugata
Omowazu me wo sorashite shimatta no wa
Dou yattatte wasurerarenai kimi no kotoba
Ima mo zutto hibiiteru kara
Yoru wo nukete yume no saki e
Tadoritsukitai mirai e
Hontou ni? Ano yume ni, hontou ni?
Tte ima mo
Fuan ni natte shimau kedo kitto
Ima wo nukete asu no saki e
Futari dake no basho e
Mou chotto
Douka kawaranaide
Mou chotto
Kimi kara no kotoba
Ano mirai de matteiru yo
Daremo shiranai
Futari dake no yoru
Machikogareteita keshiki to kasanaru
Natsu no sora ni mirai to ima tsunagaru you ni hiraku hanabi
Kimi to koko de hora ano yumе wo nazoru
Miageta sora wo kazaru hikari ga ima terashita yokogao
Sou zutto kono keshiki no tamе ni
Sou kitto hora futatsu no mirai ga
Ima kasanariau
And at that moment, as if the timing was impeccable, fireworks started to explode in the sky right behind them. But the noises coming from the fireworks didn't bother them as they can hear Riku(Tenshi) very well along with the instruments playing.
Yoru no naka de kimi to futari
Tadoritsuita mirai de
Daijoubu omoi wa kitto daijoubu tsutawaru
Ano hi mita yume no saki e
Ima wo nukete asu no saki de
Mata deaeta kimi e
Mou chotto
Douka owaranaide
Mou chotto
Hora saigo no hanabi ga ima
Futari wo tsutsumu
Oto no nai sekai ni hibiita
"Suki da yo"
As Riku(Tenshi) finished playing, back in the main control center of the Dragon Palace, Tenshi gave the reins back to Riku as he has control of his body again.
As he regained control, he saw the cheers of the crowd below and he can see some of the people were crying their eyes out. Riku then looked at the girls, but Kaoru and Rinko rushed to Riku's side.
Kaoru: Ani-sama, that was ane-sama, right?
Rinko: Kaoru-san's right. Tenshi is the only one with that kind of voice, even you can't replicate it.
Riku: Yes, it was Tenshi. But I'll tell you this tomorrow. And you're not the only one who's looking for answers.
Riku glanced at Aichi's direction as Rinko and Kaoru understood it.
Riku: I'll send Aichi a message just in case.
Meanwhile with Aichi
Aichi POV
No way....that voice, that spunk whenever she talks.....no doubt. That was nee-san.
As I was thinking on how nee-san took control of Riku's body, I felt my phone vibrating in my pocket. I took it out and it was a message from Riku.
Riku: I know you want some answers, come to the estate tomorrow if you want to know more. But you have to come alone.
Seeing the message that Riku sent me, I only sighed as I looked at Riku who was still on stage, waving to the crowd.
Meanwhile with Yuyuko
Yuyuko POV
I watched everything that had happened and I'm not mistaken...Tenshi is controlling Riku-kun's body. That means Iku allowed Tenshi inside the main center.
Yuyuko: A very interesting way that those two found~ It really is a surprise as you said. Ufufufufu~
Yukari: It is indeed very interesting.
A violet gap opened beside me and out of the gap came out Yukari.
Yuyuko: You're back.
Yukari: It's as if you didn't miss me.
Yuyuko: Of course I miss you.
Yukari: Even more so than Gin?
Yuyuko: Oh shut up you~
I lightly punched Yukari on her arm as the both of us just laughed. Yukari brought some sake for the both of us to drink. Bot of us poured in our cups and drank as we gaze upon the starry sky as I leaned my head on Yukari's shoulder.
Yuyuko: It's nice to have you back here, Yukari.
Yukari: Hm. It's good to be back. So, how's my favorite nephew doing?
Yuyuko: Riku-kun is your only nephew.
Yukari: Touché.
Okina: Seems that you're celebrating without me.
Me and Yukari looked to our left and we see a crimson door appeared, the door opened and it was Okina.
Yukari: Ara, I didn't expect to see you here, Okina. Where are Mai and Satono?
Okina: It seems you've returned. Good to see you back, Yukari. As for those two, They just came back from their South American tour and they're at the manor so they can rest.
Yuyuko: You really let them fulfill their dreams.
Okina: I treat them as my daughters, and their happiness is my happiness.
Hearing Okina's feelings for her attendants, we saw a part of Okina that she doesn't show at all. Okina opened a small door and grabbed a gourd of sake and she started to drink.
Eirin: Looks like you're enjoying yourselves here.
We turned around and we see Eirin along with Udongein coming to us.
Okina: What brings the Brain of the Moon here? Don't you have patients to attend to?
Eirin: Everything has been taken care of. And I need a rest for once in a while.
Okina: I can tell that that ain't the only reason why you're here.
Eirin's face turned serious as Okina told us that Eirin was here for something else.
Eirin: Udongein, the file.
Udongein nodded as she passed an envelope to her, she opened it and gave it to us. When we read through the files, our eyes widened a bit.
Okina: Eirin, are these reports true?
Eirin: Unfortunately so. To think that the Divine Dividing can affect Riku's bloodstream like that.
Yukari: Is the boy aware of this?
Eirin: Not yet. I do plan on giving him an appointment if he has the time.
Yuyuko: Try doing it after his Live House's event finish.
Eirin: Will do. Sorry I had to ruin the atmosphere.
Okina: Don't mind. You're just doing your job.
Yukari: And since this relates to Riku, it is of the highest priority.
Yuyuko: Anyway, lets get all that depressing stuff out and join us Eirin~ You're here to take a break, right?
The other family heads agreed to me as they offered Eirin a spot. The Lunarian told Udongein to enjoy herself as she left her teacher to us. Eirin sat beside Okina as we all drank as we enjoy the night.
Next Chapter: XXXIX - The Scarlet Devil Mansion
Spell Cards used this chapter: 2
Qi Sign: "Sky Piercing Scarlet Palm"
Spell Type: Offensive Spell Card
Target: Single Target
Danmaku Type: Light Bullet, Body Bullet
Element: Fire, Star
User: Hong Meiling
Dragon Sign: "White Dragon Crushing Claw"
Spell Type: Offensive Spell Card
Target: Single Target
Danmaku Type: Body Bullet, Slash Bullet
Element: Moon, Sun
User: Nagae Riku