NOVEL WEB Chapter 33: XXXI - The Frog Goddess and the Black Cat
A/N: The International 2024 is finally finished and congratulations to for winning this years TI. As promised, here's the next chapter. That means, no chapters for October...and November...cause here in the Philippines, September-November are monsoon months and I've become paranoid due to the constant rain and a chance of flooding in where I live. Which leaves me no focus on writing....so yeah....expect the next one in December....
The next day.....
Nagae Estate - Rinko's Room
June 14, 2021 - Monday - 6:00 A.M.
Rinko POV
I opened my eyes as I wake up from my sleep. I got up as I looked around in an unfamiliar room. Then I began to remember that I'm living at the Nagae Estate from now on...
Rinko: Right.....I forgot...I'm gonna live here from now on...I still need some time to adjust.....
I heard the door opened and I looked to my right and it was Kazehana-san, the aide that Kyoya-san assigned to me.
Kazehana: Good morning, Rinko-sama. It seems that you've just woke up.
Rinko: Good morning, Kazehana-san. Why did you come here early?
Kazehana: Well, I was about to wake you up. And since you're already up, that saves me the time. Sakurako is already doing the same thing for Miyu-sama at this time.
Rinko: Is that so....Kazehana-san, it might be rude to ask but....how old are you?
Kazehana-san just chuckled at my question as she didn't find it rude.
Kazehana: Well I just graduated college along with Sakurako this year. So that makes me 22 this year.
Rinko: You're a college graduate? What course did you take?
Kazehana: Well....I may not look like it....but I took a course in computer science and advance robotics. While Sakurako took the medical course.
Rinko: Wow....that's amazing. To think that you chose a very hard course to take and you managed to graduate....you really are amazing, Kazehana-san.
Kazehana: Thank you for the compliment, Rinko-sama. Now, please get ready as I get your uniform ready for today.
Rinko: I see, then I'll leave it to you. I'll be heading to the shower then.
Kazehana-san nodded as I head to the shower to get myself ready for the day.
At the same time with Miyu.....
Nagae Estate - Miyu's Room
Miyu POV
As I was still sleeping, I felt someone was pushing me around. I slowly opened my eyes and it was Sakurako-san trying to wake me up.
Sakurako: Rise and shine Miyu-sama. It's a new day, yes it is(A/N: Yeah...I did a New Day reference).
I got up from my bed and stretched my arms. After that, I looked at Sakurako-san and greeted her good morning.
Miyu: Good morning to you, Sakurako-san....so you came to wake me up?
Sakurako: Yup. Not just me though, Kazehana is doing the same thing to Rinko-sama right now. Now let's get you ready. Riku-sama and Mafuyu-sama are already waiting for you two at the dining hall.
Miyu: They're waiting for us to come?
Sakurako: They didn't wait that long. Riku-sama just returned from his jog with Tina-sama and Mafuyu-sama just returned from the archery range.
Miyu: I see, so those three has a routine every morning. Very well, I'll get ready. Can you get my uniform ready as I take a bath?
Sakurako: Understood. Your uniform will be ready by the time you finish.
I nodded and headed to the bathroom as Sakurako-san readies my uniform.
Nagae Estate - Dining Hall - 6:15 A.M.
Riku POV
After I finished my regular exercise with Tina and Homura, I had a fast shower and changed into my uniform as I got ready for school. I'm currently at the dining hall with Tina and Mafuyu. Youmu and Nazuna are in the kitchen while they cook breakfast.
While waiting for Rinko and Miyu to arrive here, I checked my tablet on the daily report that Marina gave me at CiRCLE yesterday.
Riku: So one of the stage lights has dimmed...one of them may be faulty...that one needs to be replaced. And the cameras in Studio 4 are a little blurry. And the ingredients need to be restocked again because the café has been always sold out for the past few days....I mean, Honami is a fantastic cook, but I didn't expect her to be this great.
Mafuyu: That's because Mochizuki-san is one of the best cooks in Miyamasuzuka, nii-san.
Mafuyu seemed to hear me as she gave her opinion on Honami.
Riku: Right. Honami was your junior when you were still at Miyamasuzuka right?
Mafuyu: Yes. Though she's a great cook and all, she excels in basically everything that a housewife is. And her academics are on par to mine in her year.
Riku: I can tell that there is a but.
Mafuyu: But the downside is....her art skills.....can be considered as...
Riku: You don't need to say it. So she's one of those kind of people.
Mafuyu: Those kind of people?
Riku: The kind of people where they invest in one skill and neglect the others. That is what I can see from Honami. And not just her. Yukina and Chu² fall in that category as well.
Mafuyu: Those two?
Riku: In Yukina's case, she is overly concentrated on music and has no cooking skills. Lisa informed me that when Yukina attempted to cook, she nearly burned down half of the kitchen. And Chu²'s case isn't as horrible as Yukina's, but her palate could still use some work. She's getting some work down with me and Reona helping.
Tina: What about you, Mafuyu-nee-san? Are you a good cook?
Mafuyu stared down on the table when Tina's questioned her that. When Tina saw the way Mafuyu react, she apologized for questioning her that.
Riku: Tina, you do remember about Mafuyu's situation.....right?
Tina: Right.....I'm sorry for asking you that, Mafuyu-nee-san....
Mafuyu: It's alright.....I've been trying to work on it for a few days now.
Riku: Are you making any progress?
Mafuyu: A bit....I can at least taste something...It might be a long way....but I'll get to it eventually.
Riku: I know you will. Just go at your own pace okay?
Mafuyu nodded as I returned to my checking on the report. After that, I sent Marina the things that she needed to buy for the day, and after sending it to her, Rinko and Miyu finally arrived.
Riku: Good morning you two.
Rinko: Good morning Riku.....good morning to you as well Tina-chan, Mafuyu-san.
Miyu: Good morning Riku-san. Riku-san, Tina-chan, Mafuyu-san.
Tina: Good morning to you as well, Rinko-onee-san, Miyu-onee-san.
Tina greeted the two good morning as she bowed lightly. Mafuyu greeted them too, but she's using her fake persona.
Mafuyu: Good morning to you as well you two. I-
Riku: Mafuyu. You can be your true self with them.
Mafuyu: Nii-san?
Riku: Mafuyu, they're family from now on, so it's alright to show them that.
Mafuyu: I...okay.....
Rinko: Riku, what do you mean by that?
Riku: Just watch.
Mafuyu's entire atmosphere shifted once I said those words. Her cheerful and cheery demeanor took a literal turn, and Mafuyu's mood turned dark. Her eyes darkened, lifeless. And greeted Miyu and Rinko in a monotone voice.
Mafuyu: Good morning, Rinko-san, Miyu-san.
The look on Rinko and Miyu's faces is as I predicted. Shock, fear, and concern. Miyu looked at me as she wants to know what happened to my sister.
Miyu: Riku-san.....what just happened to her?
Riku: What you see is Mafuyu's true self. The one you just saw is her mask...but when she's with someone she trusts, she removes it and displays her true self. Mafuyu's real personality can be as blunt as I am at times, but she is far more blunt.
Rinko: How did this happen to her....
Riku: Before I tell you this, everything that I say will not leave this room. and I need Mafuyu's consent with this.
Mafuyu: You can tell them that nii-san. It's not like I'm gonna lose everything...
Riku: alright. Like I said, everything I say will not leave this place. Understand?
My fiances nodded as I began to discuss Mafuyu's condition in detail. After a few minutes of explanation. Rinko looked down, trying not to cry, as Miyu approached Mafuyu and gave her a comforting hug.
Rinko: How....how could a mother do all of that to her own child....it isn't right.....Mafuyu-san doesn't deserve what that woman did to her.....
Miyu: My mother can be strict at times, but this......
Riku: Trust me, if that woman was still alive, we would've taken this to court and claim custody of Mafuyu.....but we're glad that she's gone from her life.
Miyu: It'll be okay now Mafuyu-san. We're here for you from now on.
Riku: Rinko, Miyu. I trust you two to keep this to yourselves.
Rinko: Of course we'll keep it a secret.
Miyu: Besides us, who knows of this?
Riku: Aside from me and my grandfather. Tina, Youmu, Yuyuko-san, and Eirin-san were aware of it from the start. Kokoro, Misaki, Chisato, and Kaoru can see Mafuyu's actual self. Okina-sama might have noticed that as well when she encountered Mafuyu once at the Hakugyokurou.
Rinko: Okusawa-san I understand. But Kaoru-san, Chisato-san and Kokoro-chan?
Riku: Kaoru and Chisato are both actresses, and they can recognize a fake smile from a mile away. And Kokoro can clearly see through her facade, since Kokoro is the embodiment of happiness. But I'm guessing Kasumi can see through it, too.
Rinko: Ho...by the way, where is Youmu-san?
Riku: She's at the kitchen, cooking breakfast. she'll be finished by-
My phone rang before I get to finish my sentence. I took out my phone and it was a message from Sakuya-san.
Riku: From Sakuya-san? Let's see what she sent me.
I opened the message, and the moment I read the message, I could feel a tick mark on my head.
Sakuya: Oujo-sama and Imouto-sama are acting a little spoiled right now. If possible, can you pick us up to school as well? You're free to give the two any punishment you see fit once we're done.
And as I finished reading the message, Youmu was already here serving up our breakfast.
Rinko: Who was it, Riku?
Rinko: It was Sakuya-san. It appears that Remi and Flan are acting a little spoiled today, and I have to pick them up today as we head to school.
Rinko: Huh? But how about Miyu-san? You have to drive to Arisugawa before we go to our school.
Riku: That's why...
I took two sandwiches from the tray that Youmu was holding, as I left the dining hall.
Riku: I'll be taking this. And meet me by the garage after you finish okay?
After saying that, I left the girls to have their breakfast, while I eat the sandwiches that I got as I head to the garage.
3rd POV
While Riku left the girls, Miyu asked if it was okay for Riku to eat that amount of food.
Miyu: Is it okay for Riku-san to eat that amount food? What if he collapsed because he didn't eat that much?
Youmu: No worries, Riku-kun tends to eat a light portion in the morning. The sandwiches that he took was the one I prepared for him. And he eats a lot during lunch. And before I forget, here you go.
Youmu placed a bento box that is wrapped in a pink cloth and gave it to Miyu.
Youmu: I made everyone their bento boxes, and that one is for you Miyu-san.
Miyu: Why thank you, Youmu-san. I promise that I'll enjoy this during lunch.
Youmu: I also made some for Mafuyu-san and Rinko-san.
Rinko: Thank you, Youmu-san.
Mafuyu only nodded as she was just munching on her bread.
Miyu: What about Tina-chan?
Tina: I am actually homeschooled. So, when you leave, I'll just wait for sensei to arrive here for my lesson. But it's okay; I'm not alone here. Cirno and Dai-chan come here whenever sensei visits to teach me.
Youmu: As long as you don't go overboard or break something okay? Now let's finish breakfast as quick as possible. Riku-kun has to drop by to the Scarlet Devil Mansion first.
The girls quickly finished their breakfast as they head to the garage. And when they reached the garage, Riku's BMW is already out and he's already in the driver's seat.
Riku: You girls came in just in time. Miyu, you'll seat beside me for the day.
Miyu nodded as she entered the car and took a seat right beside Riku, while Rinko and the other girls are seated at the back. Once everyone was in the car, Riku says his farewells to Tina.
Riku: Well, we'll be heading off now. Take care of the house while we're gone.
Tina: Hm. Be careful on the road.
Riku gave Tina a salute as he drives off and make their way to the Scarlet Devil Mansion to get a pair of spoiled vampires to school.
Several Minutes Later.....
Scarlet Devil Mansion - Front Gate
6:35 A.M.
Riku POV
After leaving the Nagae Estate, our first stop will be the Scarlet Devil Mansion. It took us at least 6 minutes to arrive there. When we got to the manor, we saw Meiling-san and Sakuya-san at the gate. Remi and Flan were sitting on the ground, tied up with bumps on their heads.
I told the girls to stay inside as I got off the car, and asked Sakuya-san the situation.
Sakuya: Good morning, Riku-sama. I'm glad that you answered the message that I sent you.
Riku: Hm. So, what did these two do this time?
Meiling: Well, oujo-sama and imouto-sama are kinda arguing on what would they eat for breakfast and.....they wanted some high quality stuff but....we're kinda on the tight budget this month.....
Riku: A tight budget? Why?
Sakuya: The master was upset with oujo-sama and imouto-sama's spending habits. Which is why he limited their monthly allowance. Unless the two learn from their mistakes, the master will not remove the restriction he has put on them. As for the living expenses for the mansion, normally I would be the one taking everything into account. But this time, the master will take matters in his own hands.
Riku: To think Emilio-sama(A/N: Emilio is the name of Remi and Flan's father...I kinda took a shot in the dark on this) would go this far......So, what happened after the two argued? And what about your transport service?
Sakuya: They began thrashing the place, so I punished them accordingly. And as for our transport, it's currently under maintenance. It'll be available once school ends today.
Riku: I see. Alright, get in. I still have to drop Miyu at Arisugawa. And untie them if you please....
I returned to the car as Sakuya-san cut the bindings on Remi and Flan. After the Scarlet sisters were free from the rope, they entered the car and saw an unfamiliar face.
Remilia: Riku-boy, who is the girl sitting beside you?
Riku: She's Sakurada Miyu, my fiance.
Miyu: Good day to you. My name is Sakurada Miyu, I'm one of Riku-san's fiance's.
Remi and Flan's froze for a bit when I told them that Miyu was my fiance, then all of a sudden Remi began to chuckle.
Remilia: Kukukukukukuku.....so you're the one....kukuku. I see now, so you're the one who had the sakura pink string tied to him.
Miyu: Hai?
Riku: Right, I forgot. Miyu-san, Remi has the ability to see fate. What she meant by that is that she saw your string of fate tied to me.
Remilia: Precisely. I forgot to introduce myself. My name is Remilia Scarlet, heiress of the Scarlet Family. This one is my sister.
Flandre: Flandre Scarlet. Let's have some fun sometime, onee-san~
Sakuya: And I'm Izayoi Sakuya. The Scarlet family head maid. And the one you saw at the gate earlier is Hong Meiling. She's the gatekeeper and the Scarlet family's head of security.
Miyu: Good to meet you as well. Riku-san, are they youkai as well?
Riku: Remi and Flan are both vampires, while Sakuya is a pure human.
Miyu: V-V-Vampires?!
Miyu started to shake when I mentioned the word vampire...don't tell me that...
Riku: Don't worry Miyu, they won't do anything bad.....unless you threatened them, then they can retaliate.
Remilia: As Riku-boy said, you have nothing to worry. Besides, we get our fair share of blood at the local blood bank.
Miyu's face began to turn blue an I just shook my head and drive our way to Arisugawa.
Arisugawa Academy - Entrance
7:00 A.M.
We've reached Arisugawa in just several minutes. and my first impression was....it really looks like a school for oujo-sama's.
Remilia: Arisugawa huh? You know, Arisaugawa was one of our option of schools that we can attend.
Miyu: Really? But why didn't you go?
Remilia: Simple really, we don't know anyone in the school. Unlike Hanasakigawa that has Riku-boy, the Saigyouji head and her gardener. And Hanasakigawa is much more interesting for us.
Sakuya: Actually, it was the master that suggested oujo-sama and imouto-sama to attend Arisugawa.
Riku: Really? Well, that's one info that I get to know. Well this is where I can drop you off.
Miyu: Thank you for the ride Riku-san. Guess I'll see you back home?
Riku: I'll be at CiRCLE after class. If you want, you can take your friends there as well so you can practice.
Miyu: Then I'll take up on that offer. Well, see you at CiRCLE.
Miyu turned around as she heads inside of the school. And right before I start the car, Miyu stopped in her tracks and ran back to us.
Riku: Did you forget something?
Miyu: I did forget something.
Miyu kissed my lips quickly and without hesitation. After the kiss, she flashed me a wink before heading inside the school. I looked behind and saw Remi looking all smug, Rinko and Youmu were blushing, and Sakuya-san was covering Flan's eyes.
Remilia: Well well well, I didn't expect that she gave you a farewell kiss. Kukukukuku.....
Rinko: When did Miyu-chan became so bold....
Riku: If you want a kiss, you can just ask me....just not in public okay?
I can see steam coming out of her head as I drive the car and make our way to Hanasakigawa.
Hanasakigawa Girls High School
7:30 A.M.
Remi talked about my engagement with Miyu when I was driving. I added that I was also engaged to Rinko. I spared Remi the details of Okina-sama's future plans. And after hearing my story, Remi laughed her heart out and told me she didn't regret coming to Japan.
When I told her that I understood what the other two strings tied to me were, she smirked and said that it wasn't just four, but seven, which startled both me and Rinko. I asked Remi what color the strings were, but he said I had to figure it out for myself again.
We decided to continue that at a later time as we arrived at the school. I told them to go ahead as I head to the parking lot to park my car. And as I got off, I activated the security system....better stay safe than sorry.
After setting up the car's security system, I head inside the school and make my way to my class.
Meanwhile with Rinko.....
Rinko POV
When I reached the classroom, I was greeted by my classmates as usual. I saw Sayo-san, Chisato-san and Matsubara-san already seated, so I make my way to my seat as Chisato-san and the others greeted me.
Chisato: Good morning, Rinko-chan.
Rinko: G-Good morning, Chisato-san.
Sayo: Good morning to you too, Rinko.
Rinko: Good morning to you as well....Sayo-san.
Chisato-san and Matsubara-san's eyes widened a bit when they heard me call Sayo-san by her first name.
Chisato: Rinko-chan...did you just...called Sayo by her first name?
Kanon: And not just that. Hikawa-san called Rinko-chan by her first name as well...
Sayo: A lot happened last weekend. So I decided to call Rinko by her first name.
Chisato: I see.....Rinko-chan. Congratulations on your engagement with onii-sama.
Rinko: EH?!
Sayo: How did you-
Kanon: FUEEEEEH?!
How did Chisato-san know I was engaged to Riku?! Kyoya-san said that only the family heads, the royal family, and a few other important individuals are aware of this!! I was scratching my head, trying to think of something, but Chisato-san was simply giggling.
Chisato: Don't worry Rinko-chan, I won't tell anyone about that. And Kyoya-san was the one who sent the announcement. We were issued to not tell anyone about it unless onii-sama says so.
Rinko: Kyoya-san was the one who told you?
Chisato: If Kyoya-san sent me the announcement...I can guess Kokoro-chan, Ran-chan, Chiyu-chan and Kaoru also received the same thing.
Now I started to shake in fear. Kaoru-san, Ran-san and Chiyu-san I can understand. But Kokoro-chan...she might....no she will spread the news....
Kanon: Rinko-chan, what Chisato-chan said is true?
Rinko: Yes. I got engaged to Riku last Saturday.
Matsubara-san looked at me and she gave me a very warm smile as she congratulated me as well.
Kanon: Congratulations on your engagement.
Rinko: Thank you very much....Kanon-chan.
Kanon: Eh?
Chisato: Rinko-chan.....did you call Kanon by her first name?
Rinko: I mean....if it's okay with you...I-
Kanon: No.....it's fine.....I kinda like it when you call me that.
While we were talking, we heard shouting in the hallway. So we stood up and looked out the window....and it was Riku and Kaguya-san arguing...from the looks of it, they were at each other's throats.
Sayo: What in the....
Kanon: Fuehhhhhh...
Chisato: Here they go again.....
Sayo: Again? They do this all the time?
Rinko: Well not always....but whenever they argue.....it's always for the smallest reasons.....
While me and Chisato-san explained the details, we overheard Riku and Kaguya-san's argument.
Kaguya: I TOLD YOU ALREADY!! VOID IS THE BEST MID LANE SPIRIT!! I MEAN, WHO DOES PLAY EARTH SPIRIT IN MID?!
Riku: I DO!! REASON WHY YOU HATING ON EARTH SPIRIT IS BECAUSE YOU CAN'T EVEN USE HIM WELL!! AND EARTH SPIRIT CAN SCREW VOID'S ASS !!
Kaguya: SAY THAT TO VOID SPIRIT ONE MORE TIME, AND I'LL BEAT YOUR ASS!
Riku: YOU'LL BEAT MY ASS? LAST TIME I REMEMBERED, I BEAT YOUR ASS WITH EARTH SPIRIT. WANT ME TO BEAT YOUR ASS AGAIN!?
While we were listening to the two argue, Chisato-san was scratching her head.
Chisato: Are they arguing.....over a game?
Rinko: Well....Kaguya-san is a gamer....I guess what Riku told her kinda ticked her off.
Sayo: But still...this is the first time I've seen Riku-san bicker with someone like a child.....
Chisato: Well, you get rare moments like that occasionally. Let's go back to our seats...they'll finish their bickering once they get inside.
We followed Chisato-san's words and returned to our seats. And right on time, Riku and Kaguya-san entered the room.
Rinko: What took you so long?
Riku: I had to set up the security on the car...and I encountered this one by chance.
Kaguya: HEY! Anyway, and trust me, his security set up is too excessive.
Riku: Hey, you won't know if someone manage to hack into it.
Kaguya: Yeah yeah....but still. I didn't expect that you two got engaged....congratulations.
Sayo: You knew it as well?
Kaguya: Yup. It's kinda obvious, since I'm the next head of the Houraisan. And I kinda saw it by a mile away. At least you got one load off on your shoulders right?
Riku: There are still some issues to take care of.....by the way Kaguya, are you going to the party this Friday?
Kaguya: Yup. Me, Eirin and Udongein will be going. I take that you'll be going there as well?
Riku: I'll be going there with Rinko, Miyu, Tina and Mafuyu.
Chisato: Miyu? Onii-sama, who's Miyu?
Kaguya: Obviously, his other fiance.
Chisato: Right....your grandfather did mention that you're having a harem.
Kanon: Fueh?! A harem?!
Sayo: Keep it down Matsubara-san.
Kanon: I-I'm sorry.......
Chisato: I'm surprised that you know this as well Sayo.
Sayo: I was there as well when it all happened. Me and the rest of Roselia were witnesses to Riku-san and Rinko's engagement.
Kaguya: I see. So Riku, this Miyu chick. What does she look like?
Riku said nothing as he took out his phone and opened the gallery and showed them a picture of me, Riku and Miyu-chan.
Kanon: Wow...she's pretty...
Chisato: I can tell that she has an air of elegance in her.
Rinko: Well....she does go to Arisugawa after all.
Kaguya: The school for oujo-sama's? Sheesh Riku, consider yourself lucky.
Kanon: But still.....I didn't expect that you'll have a harem, Riku-kun.
Riku: I know. Kanon, can you keep this a secret for now?
Kanon: I-I'll keep it a secret. You can count on me.
Rinko(whisper): How are we gonna tell the others?
Riku(whisper): We tell them. And make sure that they keep it a secret too.
After Kanon-chan promised to keep it a secret, Riku returned his phone to his pocket and right on time, our teacher arrived and homeroom started.
Timeskip.......
Live House CiRCLE - Front Desk
4:00 P.M.
Riku POV
After morning lessons, we had lunch on the rooftop with Kasumi and her friends. Kokoro followed suit after losing track of Kanon for no apparent reason. Chisato invited Aya-chan and Eve to join us. Kokoro wanted to congratulate me on my engagement at first, but I told her I would say it, and she nodded in agreement.
After we finished our lunch, I told the girls about my engagement with Rinko, and Kasumi and Rimi were the first to congratulate me. Tae questioned when the wedding would be, and Arisa smacked her head for being frank. Saaya congratulated me, but her expression was sad.
Kokoro already knew about it from her father, and Hagumi and Misaki congratulated me as well. Hagumi further stated that if I visited their meat shop at any time, the croquettes I purchased would be free of charge.
As for Aya-chan and Eve.....Aya-chan burst into tears while Eve's eyes were gleaming.
But the announcement didn't end there. I also added the details on the harem plan that Okina-sama implied. I can see their faces in shock and Arisa was livid at first. She even called me a playboy from that one. But she calmed down as I explained the rules and she understood and apologized to me. I took a peek on Saaya and I see her face brightened a bit......
Misaki asked me if I was okay with all of this, and I just said to her that I just go with the flow.
I told the girls to keep my engagement and the harem plan a secret; they asked why, and I explained that it will be disclosed at the gathering in August. In the end, they agreed to leave it at that.
After lessons finished, I asked them about their plans. Chisato and PasuPare had a commercial shoot today, and for PoPiPa, they had to assist with Saaya's bakery. Kokoro and her band will be visiting a local children's hospital delivering gifts.
Ran and Afterglow are not vacant today because, according to Ran, Tsugumi is experiencing an identity crisis. I was genuinely concerned, so I asked why, and Ran handed me a picture of Tsugumi wearing clothes from a metal band that does not fit her at all. I chose to leave it to Ran and the others because that was the logical choice.
Ako-chan had brought her bandmates to a local internet cafe to play NFO for Roselia, so I left them alone.
I'm currently at the front desk, and this time, Homura is with me. And, according to Marina, grandfather sent Homura here to keep an eye on the live house while Marina was at the back. Miyu informed me that she and her friends would arrive shortly.
Leo/need arrived 30 minutes early. So, once they changed into their uniforms, I requested them to buy the items Marina mentioned to me earlier in the morning.
I had Aya and Hatate check the situation at the other live houses that will hold the TI group stage.
Marina has also left the live house to call the bands who will be performing here next month. So it's just me and Homura here at CiRCLE.
While I waited for Miyu and the rest of Lyrical Lily to arrive, I checked the PBC's Western Europe division standings. And the outcomes are as follows.
OG - 1-0
Tundra - 1-0
Team Liquid - 1-0
Entity - 1-0
Team Secret - 0-1
Alliance - 0-1
Gaimin Gladiators - 0-1
Goonsquad - 0-1
So OG, Tundra, Liquid and Entity won their opening matches. And OG will be facing Tundra tonight...let's just hope they don't screw up. Also, Gaimin will be facing Team Liquid as well.
While I was checking the standings in the other regions as well, Miyu and her friends arrived.
Miyu: Riku-san!! We're here!!
I left the desk and make my way to Miyu. Miyu seeing me that I was approaching her, ran towards me and gave me a warm hug.
Haruna: I know that you two are engaged and all but.....doing that in public is a big no.
Kurumi: Come on chairwoman, let them have their moment.
Miiko: I mean look at them. Aren't they cute to see?
HarunaL Well.....you're not wrong.
Me and Miyu broke the hug as I welcome Haruna and the others.
Riku: Sorry about that.....anyway. Welcome to CiRCLE. This is the place where any aspiring musician takes their first step.
Haruna: Thank you for having us, Riku-san.
Riku: Well since you're here, do you girls want to have your practice here?
Kurumi: Can we?
Riku: Sure you can....as long as you don't go overboard, then we're good.
Haruna: Did something happened?
Riku: Well, my cousin tends to go overboard, resulting in breaking a few thing here and there. But the very least is that the damages weren't that expensive.
Haruna: Very well, I'll keep an eye on Kurumi-san and Miiko-san.
Riku: Please do. I can feel that those two are planning something devious. You girls can use Studio 1 right behind me.
Miyu: By the way, where is Rinko-san and her band? I thought they'll be having their practice.
Riku: Rinko's with Ako-chan and her band at a local internet cafe. They plan to play NFO for today. And Yukina still has to rest her voice.
Miyu: I see. Then it'll be just us when we go home.
Riku: Yes. Now run along now, the girls are waiting for you.
Miyu nodded and went to the studio where Haruna and the others are. And right when Miyu was gone, Ichika and the girls of Leo/need returned from their errand.
Saki: We're back, owner-san!!
Riku: Welcome back you four. I take that you bought everything?
Shiho: We did....though some of them are a bit pricey...
Riku: I'll take that into account. Anyway, since you're all here now, get to your stations. If you need my help, you'll be able to find me at Studio 18.
Ichika: Studio 18? For a second there you were gonna said that you'll be in your office.
Riku: That was the plan but, I have something to do in that studio. I trust that you girls keep an eye on the place okay?
Leo/need: HAI!
I nodded and left Ichika and the girls as I head to studio 18. As I entered the studio, I get the DJ set ready as I start to brainstorm the beats that I plan to use for PHANTOM PAIN.
Riku: Hmmmm.....this will do in the middle part of the song.....I got it.....let's try this.
I turned up the DJ set on, cracked my fingers, put on my headphones...
Riku: Let's start.
A little longer than a several minutes later....
5:25 P.M.
Miyu POV
Over an hour has passed since I arrived, and we've made a lot of progress. We tested out our new song, which we hope to perform next month, and it went great. Haruna-chan was more impressed that she could accomplish more with the DJ set she was using.
Kurumi-chan and Miiko-chan did an excellent job with the equipment in the studio. The trio intended to ask Riku-san if they might buy those from him. When we got to the front desk, Riku-san wasn't there. However, it was Hoshino-san and Hinomori-san from Leo/need.
Ichika: Ara. I didn't see you girls here. By any chance, you came out of one of the studios?
Miyu: Hai. I think that we were inside of the studio the moment you got here.
Ichika: I see. I guess I have to introduce myself. I'm Hoshino Ichika. Leo/need's guitarist and vocalist. And the one beside me is Hinomori Shiho, she's Leo/need's bassist. She's not much of a talker so I speak on her behalf. Both of us attend Miyamasuzuka Girls High School. The others are at the cafe, so it's just me and Shiho here at the desk.
Shiho: Sup.
Miyu: Good to meet you. I'm Sakurada Miyu, a second year at Arisugawa Academy. I'm the leader and vocalist of the DJ group Lyrical Lily.
Haruna: Kasuga Haruna. I'm Miyu-san's classmate, I'm also a member of Lyrical Lily as it's DJ.
Kurumi: I'm Shiratori Kurumi. I'm also Miyu-chan's classmate, I'm Lyrical Lily's VJ.
Miiko: And I'm Takeshita Miiko. I'm also Miyu-chan's classmate, and I'm the groups second vocal nano~.
Ichika: So you girls are a DJ group. It's like Peakey P-Key.
Miiko: You know them?
Miyu: Hoshino-san and her band performed here with Peakey P-Key last month, Miiko-chan.
Shiho: So what brings you here? I take it that you girls are done.
Haruna: Well yes, but we also want to ask Riku-san. But I guess he's not here.
Ichika: If you're looking for him, he's at Studio 18. But do try knock on the door, because he said that he was doing something.
We followed Hoshino-san's words and make our way to studio where Riku-san is at. And as we're walking through the hallway, Haruna-chan and the others were looking at the banners that were on the ceiling.
Kurumi: What are these banners?
Miyu: Riku-san told me that these banners show the bands that won The International throughout the years. The International is one of the biggest band tournament in the world, and Riku's band, OG has won three of these tournaments in a row.
Kurumi: Not only he's a part of a very influential family, but also had a successful music career. You really hit the jackpot, Miyu-chan.
Haruna: But why would he be here in Japan instead of continuing his career?
Miyu: He told me this a few days ago that he retired from the competitive scene because of his duties to the family. Once he settles all issues, he might return competing.
Haruna: So family reasons....well, here we are. Studio 18.
We reached the studio where Riku-san is at. We started to knock on the door to see if he would answer, but he didn't.
Miiko: Why is he not answering?
Haruna: Maybe he's too focused on whatever he's doing in there.
Kurumi: I say we go in there and see it for ourselves!
Haruna: Kurumi-san! That is inappropriate for-
Kurumi: Oh come on chairwoman. It's not like that we're gonna do something bad in there right? And besides, I think Riku-san won't mind us intruding. Isn't that right, Miyu-chan?
Miyu: Well....I think Riku-san won't mind.....but we have to ask him if it's alright for us to be there.
Miiko: Since Miyu-chan says it's okay, then let's get in there!
Haruna-chan only sighed in defeat as she agreed to join us. Kurumi-chan dragged me towards the door and told me that I should be the one to open it. I slowly opened the door, and we saw Riku-san wearing headphones while listening to something on his laptop.
Haruna: I guess we now know why he didn't answer. He's too focused on his work.
Kurumi: I wonder what he's been working on?
Miyu: I think it's a bit rude to eavesdrop on someone's work, Kurumi-chan.
Riku: You know I can hear you girls with all the talking you've been doing.
We froze in place as we looked at Riku-san's direction and he was staring at us as he took off his headphones.
Haruna: How did you hear us with that on?
Riku: Youkai sense. I'm a half youkai remember? So what brings you four here?
Haruna: Well, we just finished practice. And we want to ask you something, if that's okay.
Riku: You want to ask me something? Sure, ask away.
Haruna-chan and the others inquired Riku-san about the equipment in Studio 1 and whether they might buy it from him. After hearing us out, Riku-san handed Haruna-chan a calling card.
Riku: Take this. That number belongs to a music store that I know. Their equipment is among the finest on the market, and they can be trusted. If you call them and they ask where you got that number, tell them it was from me.
Haruna: Thank you very much for this, Riku-san.
Miiko: You seem to trust this shop nano~
Riku: Well they're one of the worlds best. And aside from that, what are you doing here?
Kurumi: Well Ichika-chan told us that you were doing something.
Riku: Hm........well I think that you four coming here can be a good thing, because I want your opinion on this one.
Miyu: Our opinion? Is it-
Riku: Yup. It's exactly what you're thinking. I just finished the music for PHANTOM PAIN.
Haruna: PHANTOM PAIN?
Miyu: It's a new song that Riku-san has been making for the past week. I get to see the lyrics with Rinko-san two days ago.
Miiko: And we get to be the first ones to hear it?
Riku: If you girls don't mind that is.....
Haruna: We would be honored to be the first ones to listen to it Riku-san.
Kurumi: Hm! This will be the first time we get to listen to a world class musician after all.
Miyu: So, what instrument will you be using for this?
Riku: That one.
Riku-san pointed the thing behind him, and it was a DJ set.
Haruna: Riku-san, you play DJ as well?
Riku: Yup. I learned the basics of becoming a DJ from Dennojo-san.
Haruna: Dennojo-san? You mean Inuyose Dennojo?
Miiko: Then that means, you know Shinobu-chan as well?
Riku: Me and Shinobu met back at 2019. And she sees me as a goal to surpass. But I think that we're getting out of topic. Get yourselves a seat and....enjoy.
Haruna-chan found some chairs at the side, she took four of them and passed one to each of us. As we get seated, Riku-san finished setting up as he started to play.
Riku: Though this is just an instrumental........PHANTOM PAIN.
A little later.......
Nagae Estate
6:30 P.M.
Riku POV
After performing PHANTOM PAIN in front of Lyrical Lily, I asked them for their feedback. Haruna and Kurumi believe the instrumental is marvelous. Miiko, on the other hand, claims that the music was action packed. Miyu, however, had a very different response.
She described seeing a worn-down temple with three silhouettes. A very tall girl with long hair and a single horn, a petite girl holding a gourd with chains on her wrists and ankles and two long horns, and a girl with hair put into a bun on both sides and a bandage wrapped over her entire right arm.
To think she saw Yuugi, Suika, and Kasen-san only by listening to it once, even if it was only their silhouettes. Even Haruna, Miiko, and Kurumi were astonished by Miyu's response. When I questioned her how she came to that conclusion, she simply stated that she incorporated the lyrics from PHANTOM PAIN to the music, which astonished me. I questioned her how she knew the lyrics, and she said she memorized them at first glance.
Haruna also mentioned that Miyu possesses photographic memory, which is an extremely rare skill. To think Miyu has that type of skill...
It was getting close to 6 p.m. after my performance and Lyrical Lily's opinions. So I told Marina, who had just returned, that I would be going ahead to escort Haruna and the others home. I asked for their addresses and drove them to their respective homes. As I dropped them off at their respective houses, their parents thanked me for bringing them there.
I and Miyu had just returned to the estate. As we entered the estate, Sakurako is there waiting for us.
Sakurako: Welcome back, Riku-sama, Miyu-sama.
Riku: We're back, Sakurako. If it's alright with you, can you take our bags in our rooms?
Sakurako: Understood! Oh right, Rinko-sama is at the living room along with Ako-sama.
Sakurako took our bags and left.
Riku: So Rinko's back. And she brought Ako-chan?
And as we came to the living room, we noticed Rinko and Ako-chan lying on the couch exhausted. Kazehana just returned with a tray that has 2 glasses of milk. Rinko did inform me Roselia would be playing NFO today, but what happened to those two to end up like that?
Kazehana: Welcome back, Riku-sama, Miyu-sama.
Riku: We're back.....what in the....
Rinko: Welcome back.....Riku....Miyu-chan...I brought Ako-chan along with me if it's alright.....
Ako: Yo.....Riku-nii....Miyu-nee....
Miyu: What happened to you two?
Riku: You said that you'll be playing NFO with Yukina and the others right? But why are you lying on the couch dead tired?
Rinko: Well....me and Ako-chan tried something.....either the best thing to do....or the worst thing to do.....
Miyu: Well, we still have time before dinner starts. Let's hear your side of the story and we'll share ours as well.
Rinko: Great idea...
Me and Miyu took a seat at the vacant couch as we share our side of the story first. Rinko was surprised that Miyu and her friends get to hear one of Riku's latest songs, and even more surprised that Miyu understood the meaning of the song just by listening once. Even Ako-chan was surprised as well. Then we listen to Rinko and Ako-chan's story. So the idea that they came up with is that they would enter a dungeon and clear it which is easier said than done...the twist is.....Rinko and the girls have to switch avatars.
Me and Miyu blinked a few times to what Rinko said.
Riku: Let me get this straight. You girls entered a dungeon using different accounts?
Rinko: Yes.
Miyu: And you think by doing that, you could understand each other more?
Ako: That was the plan.....
Riku: And who's using whose account?
Rinko: Well, I'm using Imai-san's, Ako-chan was using Yukina-san's, Imai-san is using Sayo-san's, Sayo-san was using mine, and Yukina-san was using Ako-chan's.
Riku: Hmmm.....and how did it end up?
Rinko/Ako: A disaster.
Riku/Miyu: Eh?
Rinko: What happened was...me and Ako-chan took a while to load, and when we got to the dungeon....Yukina-san and the others were facing the floor boss and....
Riku: Let me guess, they played really out of position, right?
Rinko: Y-Yes...Sayo-san was so used to being the tank...she used my avatar as the front liner....
Me and Miyu winced to when Rinko told us that Sayo was using Rinko's avatar as a tank. I was getting scared to ask on what Lisa and Yukina did. But my curiosity got the better of me and asked her anyway.
Riku: Then what about the other two?
Ako: Well.....Lisa-nee was doing fine but....Yukina-san was.....she nearly dropped my grimoire for an herb.
Me and Miyu spit our drinks and both of us coughed hard. After coughing for a few seconds, I asked Ako-chan to what Yukina did.
Riku: She did what now?!
Ako: She nearly dropped my grimoire. Luckily I was there to stop her from doing it.
Rinko: When me and Ako-chan came back, we managed to beat the boss....it was messy...but we did it....
Ako: Luckily the dungeon was just at the level 40 range. So it's just practice for us.
Miyu: Well that's a relief. If the dungeon you entered was at your level.....the penalty upon death would be massive.
Riku: No wonder you're exhausted.....well, mentally exhausted. You had to teach Yukina and the others on how your classes work.
Rinko: We did.....It was exhausting. Good thing Imai-san and Sayo-san were easy to teach.
Riku: Well at least you get to experience something new, right?
Ako: Yeah! Who would've thought playing as a bard can be hard. I have to use certain skills to connect with others.
Rinko: Same goes to me. To think that a healer has to be aware of many things. I had a hard time from just from watching our health bars every time and healing us when our health is at a certain point.
Riku: Certain classes have their roles. Some creates space for your team to initiate an attack, some oversees your allies health to minimize damage, and some are just simply creating plays that will win you the game.
As we were talking, Nazuna arrived at the living room, telling us that dinner is ready.
Nazuna: RIku-sama, dinner is ready.
Riku: Alright, tell them that we'll be there in a moment. Ako-chan, if you like, you can join with us for dinner.
Ako: I would love to!
Miyu: Well, let's not wait any longer then.
To Miyu's words, we left the living room as we head to the dining room and the food is already served.
Several minutes later
Riku's Room
8:30 P.M.
After we finished eating dinner, Ako-chan asked if someone can take her home, and Kazehana volunteered in doing that. We told her the address to Ako-chan's home, and Kazehana drove Ako-chan home with her motorcycle.
After Ako-chan left, I immediately head to my room as the match between OG and Tundra starts in a few minutes.
Right now, the match ended with OG's loss to Tundra, as they swept OG 2-0.
And right after the match, OG's official account posted a tweet, and they tweeted "welp" and I just face palmed and sighed.
Riku: Well....it can't be helped. Skitter was just too good for this series. And I kinda jinxed the boys earlier today....I just hope that they could reset and stay focused on the next match.
As I was waiting for the next match to start. Which is Team Liquid against Gaimin Gladiators, my phone rang. I picked up my phone and it was a call from Alice. With no hesitation, I answered the call.
Riku: Yo, Alice.
Alice: Good evening Riku-kun. I called you right now, because one of the staff informed me that you ordered some fabric in my store.
Riku: Yeah. I did order some fabric yesterday.
Alice: Okay then. The fabric that you ordered will be delivered there next week. Will that be a suitable date for you?
Riku: Sure, let's go with that.
Alice: Understood, then I'll see you in a week, cause I'll be delivering the fabric there myself.
Riku: Thanks. By the way Alice, did you also get an invite by the Moriya?
Alice: I did. And I'll be going there as well. I take that you'll be going too?
Riku: I will. I'll also bring my sister and fiance's with me there as well.
Alice: Fiance's? Right, you're engaged now. Congratulations. I wonder how will Sanae react to this?
Riku: Knowing her....I think that she will jump for joy.
Alice: ufufufufu~ I think I can see her doing that. Well, I said what I need to say, so I'll hang up now. Good night Riku-kun.
Riku: Good night, Alice.
Alice ended the call and right in time, the next series starts in just a moment.
The next day......
June 15, 2021 - Tuesday - 12:00 NN
Hanasakigawa Girls High School Grounds
Following the conversation with Alice, the next series began between Gaimin Gladiators and Team Liquid. And right after the series, I received a call from Kaguya, who wants to fight me one-on-one using Void while I play Earth Spirit. Of course, I accepted it and plowed her ass, defeating her 3-0. After thrashing Kaguya's ass, I called it a night.
The morning dawned, and I went about my usual routine. But this time, I followed my regimen at the gym. After hitting the gym, I took a fast shower and prepared for school.
Rinko and Miyu are gradually adjusting to their new life on the estate, which is good. Aya and Hatate have already become adjusted to living as if they owned the place in a long time.
School began with nothing particularly interesting, and morning classes concluded smoothly.
I'm currently eating lunch with the band girls, along with Mafuyu, and Kaguya. Youmu is at Yuyuko-san as usual, while Remi, Flan and Sakuya-san are at the rooftop as they made it their usual spot. We're on the school grounds, sitting on the grass. Fortunately, we have blankets to keep our clothes from becoming dirty.
As we were eating, Kaguya and I paused because we sensed something powerful had entered the school.
Riku(whisper): Kaguya, you felt that?
Kaguya(whisper): I did...but it seems that someone is using a concealment spell.
Rinko: Riku, Kaguya-san. Is something wrong?
Kaguya: Nothing to worry Rinko-chan. Me and Riku just sensed that someone just entered the school.
This caught the student council trio's attention.
Sayo: Someone just entered the school? If that was the case, we would've gotten a notice from the teachers.....unless.....
Arisa: They came here uninvited.
Riku: Precisely. And you can take that concealment off, we know you're here.
???: Looks like you haven't lost your edge, Riku-chan.
The concealment spell wore off as we saw a petite girl sitting on a tree branch wearing a short simple purplish-blue dress with a frog print design, large white sleeves stitched onto the torso, and a white collar. She has medium length blond hair, grey eyes, a light brown wide-brimmed hat with two frog eyes on the top, white kneehighs and black shoes.
The girl jumped off the branch and landed on the ground as she sits like a frog.
???: Yo, Riku-chan, Kaguya-chan~.
Riku: It's good to see you, Suwako-sama.
I took a glance at Rinko and Sayo flinched when I called Suwako-sama.
Kaguya: Why are you here in Hansakigawa? From what we know, you rarely left the Moriya Shrine.
Suwako: Well I was bored, so I tried to go out for a bit. Kanako doesn't seem to mind, but Sanae told me that I can do whatever I want as long as I don't make a ruckus.
Kasumi: Senpai, who is she?
Riku: Everyone, meet Moriya Suwako.
Suwako-sama introduced herself as she was scratching the back of her head as the eyes on her frog cap blinked.
Suwako: Greetings~ I'm Moriya Suwako~ I'm the goddess of the Moriya Shrine~
The girls dropped their chopsticks when Suwako-sama called herself a goddess. Knowing what will happen next, I quietly put out a soundproof barrier to make sure no one hears them scream.
Band Girls(minus Kokoro, Rinko and Sayo): EHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH?!?!
Yup. I expected that.
Arisa: Riku-san! Is she really telling the truth?!
Riku: Yup. She's a bonafide goddess.
Eve: To think that I would meet an actual goddess in the flesh....it is an honor to meet a goddess of ancient times!!
Rinko: So she's Suwako-sama?
Sayo: I expected her to be...a bit mature...
Suwako: Well I can transform myself into an adult but.....I prefer this more.
From out of nowhere, Kokoro jumped into Suwako-sama and gave her a hug.
Suwako: You're still goin' strong with the hugs ain't ya, Kokoro-chan?
Kokoro: Hm! And it's been a long time too, Suwako-sama! Sorry that I wasn't able to come to the shrine more often.
Suwako: No worries, I know that you have a lot of things to do.
Suwako-sama returned the hug as she was giving Kokoro a head pat as well.
Hagumi: Kokoron, you know her too?
Kokoro: Yup! I met her when me and onii-chan visited the Moriya Shrine back then.
Riku: So anyway, aside from you doing anything you want, there's another reason why you're here, right?
Suwako-sama grinned as she expected that question.
Suwako: Yup. And it regards to the party.
Tae: Party?
Suwako: The Moriya will throw a party to celebrate our arrival in Gensokyo. We sent out invitations to some of our friends. But the truth is, not all of them will come, and we have a small problem.
Riku: What kind of problem?
Suwako: Well, when we got word that you got engaged and congratulations by the way. Sanae was jumping for joy when she heard of this and.....she might've went overboard.
Kaguya: I think I know where this is going.....
Suwako: Sanae's order of ingredients were 2 times the amount that we were suppose to use.
Riku: How will that be a problem? I mean Yuyuko-san will-
Suwako: Oh that. Yuyuko won't be coming.
Riku/Kaguya: Eh?
Suwako: She said that she wanted to come but, she had a very important meeting at that day.
Kaguya: Well, Yuyuko is out. Who else is confirmed to go? I mean, me, Eirin, Udongein, Riku, his sister and fiance's will be coming.
Suwako: Well the Koumakan girls will come for sure since the party will be held at night. The Komeiji, Hinanawi, and Hakurei will come along with several others.
Riku: And even with that amount, it'll not be enough right?
Suwako: Yeah.....I know. How about you girls come to the party as well?
Kasumi: Eh? We can come to the party too?
Suwako: You're Riku-chan's friends, therefore you're okay to me as well. And I am confident that you girls will be welcomed there. That is, if you had something to do on Friday. By the way, I stopped by at Otonikizaka a while ago, and Aichi-chan asked if you were free after class.
Riku: Aichi asked? I mean I have time before I head to CiRCLE. Why?
Suwako: He said that you should meet him at the Hinanawi Mansion, and he wanted to give you something.
Riku: Hmmmmmmmm.....okay. I'll go there after school.
Suwako: Ight, I said what I want to say, so I'm outta here~ See you at the party at Friday Riku-chan~
Suwako-sama left as she was skipping away.
Misaki: You know, for a goddess, she's pretty carefree.
Riku: Well, that's Suwako-sama for you. So, she insisted that you girls should go to the party too. Do you have any plans?
Kasumi: Well...we want to but.....we can't.
Saaya: Well, we got invited to perform at one of the live houses outside of the city. It seems that our performance at CiRCLE got us a little bit of reputation.
Riku: So you decided to take my advice?
Rimi: Hm.....we want to make senpai proud as well by performing outside of CiRCLE.
Riku: And I'm sure that you'll perform very well out there. What about HaroHapi and PasuPare?
Chisato: This week is our week-off. We can go to the party.
Aya: And the agency is still in the middle of repairs...
Kokoro: We can't come to the party, onii-chan. You see, Emu invited Hello, Happy World! to a collaboration with Wonderlands x Showtime at Phoenix Wonderland for their evening performance.
Riku: Well that's great. It's a shame that you won't be able to come, but I want you to do your best out there okay?
Kokoro: Hai! I'll give it my all and make everyone smile!
Riku: Misaki, I expect that you keep an eye on her for me.
Misaki: Don't need to tell me.
Sayo: We might be able to go there as well as we have a lot of free time.
Riku: Really? I thought that Yukina-s voice is okay now?
Rinko: Well, we received a call from Yukina-san's doctor and told us that she needs another week of rest if Yukina-san wants to use her voice freely.
Riku: Ouch....then that means, Roselia will be able to come.
Rinko and Sayo nodded. Then I told them the details on where the Moriya Shrine is to make sure they don't get lost. As I finished explaining, we finished our lunch, the school bell rang and we head back to our class.
Timeskip........
Hinanawi Mansion - Nagano Prefecture
5:30 P.M.
3rd POV
After classes concluded, Riku informed the girls that he would be going to the Hinanawi mansion by himself. Rinko insisted that someone should accompany him, but Riku claimed that he would be fine on his own. Finally, Rinko agreed. But she made him promise to take care of himself, and he said yes.
Sayo asked about the Hinanawi mansion's location, and Riku responded that it is in Nagano prefecture, which astonished them because it is located outside of Tokyo.
Riku returned to the estate first and get changed. Riku also informed Marina that she'll be in charge as he was going somewhere important.
Riku opted to ride the Shinkansen to save the time. If he decides to take the ordinary train, it will take at least 8 hours to get to Nagano from Tokyo. While aboard the bullet train, he sent a message to the girls from Afterglow and Raise A Suilen of Suwako's invitation. Five minutes later, he received a response from them.
Ran: Unfortunately, we can't come. Dad needs me to a session that he'll be holding right after school this Friday. Moca won't be able to go because she has to get her teeth checked out. Tsugumi won't be able to go as well since she has her work. Tomoe and Himari are on a Ramen vlog this Friday as well.
Chiyu: Appreciate the invite, but we can't. We were invited to a small band tournament in Osaka throughout the weekend. We'll use this chance to make ourselves known outside of the Kanto region, so we'll have to take the night train to reach Osaka by the weekend. As for the news of your engagement, only me and PAREO knows of this for now. Knowing Rei, she'll probably lose motivation if I tell her this at a very important event going, I'll tell the others of it once the event is over. And send my regards to Sanae.
Riku let out a sigh as he found out that Afterglow and RaS aren't available. So in the end, only Pastel*Palettes and Roselia will be coming with him along with Tina, Mafuyu and Miyu.
As he got off the train and left the station, he rode a taxi on his way to the mansion. And after a few minutes, he reached the Hinanawi mansion.
The Hinanawi mansion is a huge Japanese-themed house that consists of 3 stories that is painted in white and red. Riku reached the intercom as he called whoever was inside the mansion.
???: Who is this?
Riku: Aichi, it's me. Suwako-sama said that you want me to come here, so here I am.
Aichi: Ah, you're here. Hold up, let me open the door. Meet me by the garage will you?
The one who answered the call was Aichi and as the call ended, the gates opened and Riku entered the mansion and headed to the garage.
As I reached the garage by asking one of the workers, Aichi was already there and right beside him was a huge black wheel with several white frames covering it. And on the inside of the wheel is basically what you see from a motorcycle.....(A/N: Reference this to Jack Atlas' D-Wheel in Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D's)
Riku: Well, I'm here and.......what is this?
Aichi: This is the reason why I called you here. I present you.......the Universe Ring.
Riku: The Universe Ring? Did you make this by yourself?
Aichi: Nope, it was nee-san. She built it while you were still with OG back then.
Riku: What kind of fuel does this go with?
Aichi: It doesn't run with any fuel. But promise not to tell anyone what you see.
Riku's brows narrowed from Aichi's words. Riku nodded and Aichi opened where the engine is and Riku was shocked. What Riku saw a single sakura pink cube that is the same size as a football glowing in a bright pink glow. Aichi decided to close it as it might get some attention.
Riku: Aichi...what was that?
Aichi: What you see there is what we call...Sakuradite.
Riku: Sakuradite? This is the first time I've even heard of this.
Aichi: That's because it was discovered only 10 years ago. Sakuradite was discovered in one of the Hinanawi's expeditions in Mt. Fuji. The reason why this was not addressed to the public is to how unstable it was.
Riku: Unstable?
Aichi: The expedition team tried to take some of them, but with just one swing from a pickaxe, the Sakuradite exploded. The damage was massive and a lot were injured from the blast. Luckily, no one was killed from it.
Riku: Then how did the Hinanawi managed to get one of these?
Aichi: Through some extensive research, we found ways to extract Sakuradite without having it exploding on the workers faces. And after researching the mineral.....what it can do can tip the power scale of the world.....hard.
Riku: What can it do......
Aichi: Father told me of this but....Sakuradite is 10 times more efficient than nuclear power.
Riku's jaw dropped. If what Aichi said was true, if the Sakuradite is publicized, then this will change the landscape in the world's economy. Or in the worst case scenario...
Riku: Man...if this were Japan's main source of power....this would take Okuu out of commission. And if it's given to the wrong hands.....World War 3 will be in our doorstep.
Aichi: Yeah. So after we found out what the Sakuradite can do. The Celestial Families and his majesty made a decision to keep the Sakuradite issue under wraps. Anyone exposing it, will lead to a death penalty. As for mining the Sakuradite, the Hinanawi are in charge of everything.
Riku: I think that's for the best. With the Hinanawi's ability to manipulate the earth, getting the Sakuradite will be easy pickings. But now the question is, why did I see a cube of Sakuradite in the engine of the Universe Ring?
Aichi: This cube is one of nee-san's attempts in refining the Sakuradite.
Riku: Refining?
Aichi: By refining it, she managed to take off the mineral's unstable nature and make it much more potent and by nee-san's estimates.....this Sakuradite cube can energize the Universe Ring for 500 years.
Riku: Amazing........So, don't tell me that you brought me here just to tell me that?
Aichi: No. As a matter of fact, I called you here because I want to give it to you.
Riku: Excuse me?
Aichi: I'm serious. The reason why I want to give this to you is because I know that nee-san wants you to have it. I know what you're thinking and I will say this to you. I don't like riding motorcycles.
Riku: Say what? How? When? I thought you love riding bikes?
Aichi: I was...until nee-san dragged me to it.
Riku understood what Aichi meant and didn't even asked why. He just remembered that Tenshi loves to ride very fast and doesn't give a damn to the speed limit. He just sighed and accepted it.
Riku: Since you're persistent in giving me this....then I'll take it. I want to ask though, is this thing street legal or not?
Aichi: It's completely street legal. Nee-san had it checked by the government several times and it got the green light......as long as we don't over speed by at least 60 km/h, unless an emergency ensues.
Riku: I see.....thanks Aichi....for this.
Aichi: No problem. By the way, congratulations on your engagement.
Riku: So you've heard of it. Thanks. Do Honoka and the others know?
Aichi: I did tell them. Umi, Maki and Nico were furious. Honoka, Rin, Hanayo and Nozomi were a bit curious. Kotori was just staring at me when I said that. And the one who was most affected was Eli. She's been spacing out for a few days now. Riku, you know something right?
Riku: I do....but it's up to her if she wants to tell you or not. But since you gave me this, I think it's fair that I give you something in return. If you want to know why Eli is acting like that, ask her what happened before TI10 started.
Aichi looked at Riku as he wanted more details, but decided not to as that is the only hint that he'll get from him.
Aichi: Aright, I won't pry anymore. But enough about that. How about you take it for a spin?
Riku agreed to Aichi's suggestion. Riku took a seat at the Universe Ring, and the one wheeled motorcycle began to activate on it's own.
Riku: It activated on it's own? I just took a seat and-
Aichi: That's the feature that nee-san put in that bike. The catch is, only someone that is on the level of a Celestial Family head can activate that.
Riku: Then whoever tried to steal this won't be able to use it. Now this is a good way to-
*BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!!!!!*
Then all of a sudden, Riku and Aichi heard a loud explosion and they felt a huge surge of magic power and both of them turned to the garage entrance to see where the source came.
Aichi: Riku...that magic surge.
Riku: Yeah.....but this time, it isn't like the magic surge that happened last weekend....the magic power....it's foreign. And that explosion....this can't be good. Aichi, you said that I should take this for a spin right?
Aichi didn't say anything and just pressed a button on the Universe Ring's control panel and a handle and a small platform appeared on the side and Aichi stood on the platform and grabbed on the handle.
Riku: Wait, didn't you said that you don't like riding motorcycles anymore?
Aichi: I did. But only if it was nee-san driving. But if it's you, I'm okay with it.
Riku nodded and he began to revving up. Inside the Universe Ring's engine, the Sakuradite cube started floating and began to rotate. And as Riku felt the Sakuradite is in full swing, he floored it and drove to where the source of magic was.
Meanwhile at the streets of Nagano....
Aichi POV
As I was holding at the side of the Universe Ring, my phone was vibrating in my pocket. I took out my personal line and it was Reimu.
Aichi: Reimu-san, this is me.
Reimu: Good thing that you answered. You felt that surge of magic power right?
Aichi: I did. Me and Riku are on the way to take a look at it.
Reimu: Very well. I'll tell the others that you two got this and we'll try our best to calm down the citizens around the area. And in case if whoever you see there is hostile, you have my permission to use your spells. Detain them for questioning. If they resort to attacking you, you are permitted to eliminate them.
Aichi: Alright. We'll give you the details once we sorted this out.
Reimu: Be careful out there. We'll start the procedures on our side.
Reimu-san ended the call and I turned to Riku who was driving.
Aichi: Riku, Reimu-san just called. She said that we're free to use our spells if whoever we encounter there is hostile. And keep them alive so they can be interrogated. She also added that if they resist or attack at us with full intent, we're allowed to eliminate them.
Riku: Okay. And Hang on tight, I have to speed things up. I can sense that the magic is weakening.
I just nodded and gripped the handle tight as Riku increased the speed of the Universe Ring as we head to the source.
In just a few minutes, we arrived to an abandoned warehouse. Me and Riku got off the Universe Ring. Before we get in, I told Riku to hold his hand out in front of the Universe Ring in which he did, the Universe Ring vanished and it turned into a ring that is in his middle finger. I told him that if he needed to use the Universe Ring, he can just summon it by using the ring. Riku thanked me for the info and we turned our attention to the warehouse. I drew the Sword of Hisou and Riku covered himself in lightning. And before we get in, Riku set up a bounded field to make sure no one hears anything from the outside.
Riku: The surge came from here...I can still feel it. Keep your guard up, and stick with me. Wait, I hear voices...
Riku stopped walking as we heard unfamiliar voices coming from inside, Riku decided to cast a presence concealment spell to make sure no one detected us. As we got inside, we see 4 men wearing very high quality clothing, and they were cornering someone, but we couldn't see who. But me and Riku can tell that they're not human. I talked to Riku via telepathy to make sure they don't spot us.
Aichi: Riku, you felt that too, right?
Riku: Yeah, It's obvious that they're not human.....as if they're not hiding it.....and the atmosphere around them....it's albeit.....demonic to say the least.
Aichi: Demonic? Are you saying that they're demons?
Riku: I'm not sure....let's get closer, I want to hear more of this.
I followed Riku as we walked in closer to the four men. As we got close, we saw who they were cornering. And to our surprise, it was a beautiful young woman with a voluptous figure, long black hair with split bangs, and hazel-gold eyes with cat-like pupils.
Her attire consists of a black kimono, a yellow obi, a set of golden beads, and an ornately detailed headband. The kimono features a red interior and it is open at her shoulders, giving view to her large breasts.
What surprised us the most is that she had a pair of cat ears on her head and two cat tails on her back and we can see that she was all beaten up. I looked at Riku and I can see that his face is all but calm.
Aichi: Riku...that woman...
Riku: There's no mistaking it.....she's a youkai. A nekomata to boot.....but she's the same as Chen. But for now, let's listen....
I nodded to Riku as we listen to their conversation.
??? 1: You're a real piece of work, you know that? Thanks to you, we can't return to the underworld anymore!!!!
??? 2: And since we can't come back to the underworld, we can start ruling this world! Without the four satans on our asses or any exorcists around, we can rule this world easy!
Me and Riku's eyes widened as we heard that these four wanted to conquer the world. Riku puts his hands on his mouth as if he was thinking of something...looks like he already has a plan. As Riku was formulating a plan, we continue to listen.
??? 3: Yes! This will be the new age for devils!! And you Kuroka will serve as a breeding ground for us! And since you're magic is sealed, and abilities suppressed, you have nowhere to run.
One of the devils said this with a malicious smile on his face, and both me and Riku's aura started to leak. This will not stand.
Devil 4: And you have the strength close to an Ultimate-class devil. Imagine the power of our children~
The nekomata named Kuroka's expression turned pale, before i get to move, Riku put his hand on my shoulder as he talks to me via telepathy.
Riku: Aichi, don't do anything drastic. I've got a plan.
Aichi: Let's hear it.
As Riku laid out his plan, we ready ourselves to rescue that nekomata from those four.
Kuroka POV
To think that I would end up in a situation like this.....not only I can use my magic, I can't use my senjutsu let alone yojutsu to get out of this....and to top it off, we got teleported to who knows where, and I can feel that the leylines of magic are very different compare to ours.....looks like we to sent to another world....and the fact that I'm all beat up and bruised all over and my magic drained...I think big G wants to royally screw me over.
And the fact that these four wanted to make me a breeding cow for their plans....I guess this is karma for me...
As I can't do anything at all, I just laid down and accept my fate. And as those four were approaching me with minds filled with lust, I start to remember the times in the past....and one of those....
Kuroka(thoughts): Sorry Shirone....looks like onee-chan won't be able to say I love you anymore....
And as I close my eyes and accept my fate, I felt a surge of lightning in front of me. And as I opened my eyes, I saw two young men standing in front of me facing those four devils. The one on the right was a young man with blue hair and red eyes, wearing a white shirt, dark blue pants, he's wearing a hat with two peaches on it with two leaves beside it, and he's holding a sword that has a orange blade on it.
And the other one is a young man with dark violet-blue hair with red and gold eyes. He's wearing a black shirt and a white jacket, dark brown pants and he's wearing a white scarf around his neck and he's also wearing a hat with a red ribbon on it and he was letting out lightning around his body.
I can smell that these two boys are not human...especially the violet haired one....I can smell a dragon inside of him. The boy with the violet hair looked at me as he asked me if I was alright.
???: Are you okay?
Kuroka: I-I'm fine.....I just can't move...
Riku: I see. Don't worry, you're safe. I'm Nagae Riku, and this is my friend, Hinanawi Aichi. We'll take care of things here.
I wanted to say to note overestimate themselves but...I can tell that these two have something that we don't....so I decide to trust them.
Kuroka: And I'm Kuroka....be careful....they're not your usual bunch of devils...
Riku: Devils huh? Duly noted...Aichi, you said you want to let out some steam right? They're all yours.
Aichi: Thanks.
My eyes widen when Riku told Aichi to go ahead and face those four devils by himself. The devils also heard that and they were super pissed.
Devil 1: Who the hell do you think you are?!
Devil 2: They're just a bunch of pathetic humans!
Devil 3: Impossible! If they're humans, how did they get here without us noticing?!
Devil 4: Do they have a Sacred Gear on them?
The two boys tilted their head as they were confused to what the devils are talking about. Wait....don't tell me that they don't have Sacred Gears in this world?
Riku: I don't know what you are, or who you are, or what the hell is a Sacred Gear is. All that matters is that you four are coming with us.
Aichi: And as the next head of the Hinanawi Family of the Celestial Families, we'll stop you right here! We heard what you say a while ago, and we won't allow it!!
Celestial Families? What are they? But the devils didn't take their words lightly.
Devil 1: You think a pair of humans would just come here and pick a fight with us?
Devil 2: We're the elite servants of Shalba Beelzebub!! You have no chance in beating us!
Shalba Beelzebub?! So these four are a part of the Old-Maou Faction?! Now I'm starting to get concerned. But I looked at Riku and Aichi's eyes, I can feel the killing intent on them.
Riku: Human huh? Who says that we're human?
Devil 3: Huh?! What do you mean by that?!
Riku didn't say anything as he took out a piece of paper and summoned a naginata on his left hand. The naginata started to coat itself in lightning as the paper started to glow.
Riku: Thunder Sign: "Origin of Thunder"!!!!
Riku threw the naginata in the air as it was split into several more naginatas and it was homing their way to the four devils. The Devils avoided the incoming attack as Riku gave the signal.
Devil 2: They're not your regular humans, they're mages!!
The devils began to fire a barrage of orbs coming towards us, but Riku stretched out his hand as his scarf started to float around him.
Riku: Fish Sign: "Sunfish Aegis"!!!
At his words, his scarf started to expand and formed itself into a shield that looked like a sunfish for some reason. The orbs that were coming right at us didn't even make a dent on the shield that he made. As the barrage finished, the shield deformed itself as the scarf returned to normal.
Riku: Aichi, change of plans. You take the two on the left, I'll go on the right. Since they won't listen to reason, we're free to eliminate them per Reimu's orders. But I'll stay here for a moment.
Aichi nodded as he dashed his way on the two devils as he unsheathed his sword.
Riku: Before I fight, let me do this. Fish Sign: "Bivalve Dome".
All of a sudden, several scarves started to surround me and started to cover up like a dome. I can still see from the inside of the dome, so I can watch their fight from here.
Riku: Stay there, you'll be safe inside. Leave the rest to us.
Riku went to the two other devils as he start his fight. I just hope they can come out of this unscathed.
3rd POV
With Aichi....
As Aichi was charging his way to the two devils he's facing, they were spamming dark orbs at him as Aichi was either dodging or cutting them with the Sword of Hisou with ease.
Aichi: Is that all you got? We've been dodging a lot of those since I was 10.
Devil 3: Why you inferior human!!
Aichi: Don't compare a Celestial such as myself to those humans.
Devil 4: Celestial?! The fuck is a Celestial?!
Aichi: You won't get to know, since I'll be ending this in one fell swoop.
Aichi took a deep breath as he gripped the Sword of Hisou tightly and returned it to it's sheath. He goes into an iai stance as he takes the opportunity to strike as the devils were still wondering what a Celestial is.
Aichi: Hisou: "Blazing Celestial Slash"!!!
Aichi slowly unsheathed the sword as he rushed to one of the devils and slashed one of them in the chest as the Sword of Hisou was covered in reddish-white flames. The Devil that was hit by screamed in pain as he stepped back while panting. But the devil noticed that it didn't inflict any damage to him as he started laughing.
Devil 3: Is that it?! For a second there I thought I was a goner! And it didn't even do shit to me!!
Aichi: True. The Sword of Hisou isn't meant to inflict damage to the body. It is meant to damage the soul. And the way my spell works, is that the more sins you committed, the hotter the flames will burn your soul. And since you're a devil of all things.
Aichi slowly said that as he slowly sheathed the sword. And the moment he completely sheathed the Sword of Hisou, the devil began to burn from the inside out in reddish white flames. The flames were so intense that it immediately turned the devil into ash.
Kuroka who is inside the dome that Riku created widened her eyes in shock. She just saw a high-class devil got killed in one attack. Aichi turned his attention to the other devil as he didn't hesitate and took out a black paper and cast his spell.
Aichi: Earth Sign: "Keystone Coffin"!!!
Before the devil even realized what Aichi did, his feet were suddenly encased by rocks as two stone slabs appeared on his left and right. As Aichi slowly brings his left and right hand together, the stone slabs began to move. Knowing this, the devil tried to push the stone slabs as an attempt to break it. But it was futile, Aichi clasped his hands and the stone slabs slammed shut, killing the devil in the process.
(A/N: I referenced Aichi's spell from one of Tremor's Fatalities in Mortal Kombat X)
The stone slabs crumbled down, only to see the dead devil flattened and Aichi let out a tiring sigh as he turned his sights on Riku.
Meanwhile with Riku
The two devils were barraging Riku with their magic bullets, but Riku was just dodging the incoming attacks by side stepping with his eyes closed.
Devil 1: How is he dodging our attack with our eyes closed?!
Devil 2: Doesn't matter! Just keep shooting!!
The devils just kept shooting as Riku was dodging all incoming attacks. Little did they know, Riku is using this chance as a way to train his senses. So in short, he's just playing with them.
After several minutes of dodging, Riku slowly opened his eyes and he looked at the two devils all exhausted. Riku didn't waste any chance as he closed the distance between him and the two devils as he stretched out his left hand and lets out a small smirk on his face.
Riku: I'm taking a page from your book, Marisa. Thunder Sign: "Thunder Dragon - Howling Spark"!!!!!
Riku unleashed a huge lightning laser that is at least 8 meters in diameter on the two devils at point blank. The blast was so powerful, it skid Riku a few inches back. The two devils on the other hand, were not so lucky, as they got hit by the blast right in front of them, But little did they know is that the blast has divine properties which is dangerous to devils. As a result, the two of them got incinerated to ash.
As the lightning laser waned out, all traces of the devils were gone to ash. Riku lets out a sigh as he snapped his fingers and the bivalve dome that was protecting Kuroka disappeared.
Aichi walked towards Riku as he finished his fight also.
Aichi: Riku! That was a new spell right?
Riku: Yeah. I kinda take some notes from Marisa when we had a spar years ago.
Riku looked at Aichi's side of the battle and he noticed that one of the devils got flattened.
Riku: Guess you did a good job. Good thing you left someone intact.....though not really. We can use this body so that Eirin-san can study this.
Aichi: Yeah. But I think we got some other matters to deal with.
Riku and Aichi looked at Kuroka who was still laying on the ground and both of them nodded. As they want to ask Kuroka some questions.
Next Chapter - XXXII – Eli's Choice and the Party
Spell Cards Used: 5
Fish Sign: "Sunfish Aegis"
Spell Type: Defensive Spell Card
Target: AOE
Danmaku Type: N/A
Element: Water
User: Nagae Riku
Fish Sign: "Bivalve Dome"
Spell Type: Defensive Spell Card
Target: AOE
Danmaku Type: N/A
Element: Water
User: Nagae Riku
Hisou: "Blazing Celestial Slash"
Spell Type: Offensive Spell Card
Target: Single Target
Danmaku Type: Slash Bullet
Element: Fire, Metal, Star
User: Hinanawi Aichi
Earth Sign: "Keystone Coffin"
Spell Type: Offensive Spell Card
Target: Single Target
Danmaku Type: Heavy Bullet
Element: Earth
User: Hinanawi Aichi
Thunder Sign: "Thunder Dragon - Howling Spark"
Spell Type: Offensive Spell Card
Target: AOE
Danmaku Type: Laser Bullet
Element: Wood, Star
User: Nagae Riku