Hakugyoku Hotel Stockholm Branch - Outside
3rd POV
Shinomiya Oko. The eldest son of the four children of the Shinomiya Family. A self-centered, selfish and arrogant person who wants power and fortune all to himself and he will use any means necessary to make sure he benefits the most.
An ambitious and entitled man who goes to extreme lengths to get whatever he wants. The examples were him being the mastermind behind the death of Riku's parents four years ago and the planned assassination of Riku's closest friend, Hinanawi Tenshi, just a week after Riku's parents death. Just because things didn't go his way and he want to let everyone know that his words are absolute.
This ended up six of the Celestial Families to join forces to bring him down for good.
(A/N: The Komeiji, Matara, Yagokoro, Ibaraki and Hakurei didn't take part in the conflict as they're responsible in keeping the civilians safe from the crossfire.)
After the Celestial Families and with the help of the Tsurumaki exposed all of the things that Oko did behind the Shinomiya all over Japan from drug trafficking, embezzlement of the Shinomiya Family's assets, extortion in several occasions, up to the point of human trafficking, the head of the Shinomiya, Shinomiya Gan'an declared him to be disowned, all of his accounts and assets be frozen indefinitely and eventually exiled from the family.
According to the reports coming from Yukari, Oko has begun gathering every cent he can get and getting some help from several syndicates to enact his revenge. And four years later, Oko hired the Black Fang to eliminate Riku, but that ended up in failure.
And right now, the man himself is in front of Riku, Youmu and Meiling. And what surprised them was Oko can use danmaku. Something that someone from Gensokyo and other exceptions can only use.
Meiling: If it really is him, why did he come here in person rather than his usual stunt where he hides in the shadows?
Youmu: I think this has something to do with the failed attempt yesterday. And he's here to take matters in his own hands.
Riku: You might be right about that Youmu but...something's not right about him.
Meiling and Youmu raised a brow and turned to Riku.
Youmu: What do you mean something's not right Riku-kun?
Riku: Normally Oko would be fuming when we ignore him for a bit but.....he's just standing there quietly and...he's paler than before...
Meiling and Youmu observed Oko from where they stand and while Youmu and Meiling haven't noticed, Riku started recording the entire thing. And the two noticed that Oko was just standing there as if he's a robot waiting for orders. The change that they notice as well was his skin was paler and his eyes were dark gold compared to his black colored eyes from before.
Meiling: His eyes.....they're gold.....Do you guys think that those eyes are the reason why he can use danmaku?
Riku: I don't know. We only have one way to find out. Make sure that he's in one piece. And before you ask on what I'm gonna do, the moment I made this barrier, I have to focus on maintaining it. It means that I can't attack nor defend.
Youmu: Then that means-
Riku: One of you must stay beside me to intercept any danmaku directly coming to me-
(A/N: Insert OST - Greenwich Debris)
Before Riku even finished explaining, Oko who seemed to heard what Riku said, began to shoot a barrage of danmaku at them. Youmu began deflecting the incoming bullets even using her Hakurouken to deflect and Meiling is deflecting the bullets with her fists. The barrage kept going for several minutes now and the landscape is filled with craters due to Oko's bullets and shows no signs of stopping. Youmu and Meiling can't think of a counter in their current situation as they can only deflect the bullets while Riku is maintaining the barrier to prevent any damage around them. Considering that Oko is using "Heavy Bullets", this puts a stress on Youmu's arm and Meiling's hands.
Youmu: I can't deflect all of this! The bullets are too heavy!
Meiling: Youmu's right! We can't hold on for much longer!
Riku(mind): Both of them are right. If this continues, Youmu and Meiling will tire themselves out before we could even think of a counterattack and my magic power is draining fast to maintain this barrier from his barrage. There must be some way to create an opening!
???: Then allow me to assist you on this! Explosion Sign: "Mega Flare"!!
Before the three tried to look where the voice was coming from, a huge red light bullet crashed down between us and Oko, resulting in blinding him to stop his attacks.
We looked up to where the danmaku came from and it was Utsuho who had her black raven wings spread out and she's wearing a cape and her right arm has a wooden cannon attached to it.
Riku: Utsuho! How did you manage to enter the barrier!?
Utsuho: Well, I was patrolling the area from the sky and I noticed that the area became quiet all of a sudden. I flew to every site I know for a few minutes until I saw some stray danmaku coming right at me! So, who you guys fighting?
Utsuho landed in front of Riku and he explained the situation to her and she gave a nod and went in front of Riku.
Utsuho: Very well, then leave the rear to me!
Riku: Good. Utsuho, how many times can you still use "Mega Flare"?
Utsuho: I only have one shot left Riku-sama.
Riku: That's more than enough. Youmu! Meiling-san! Try to create an opening for Utsuho to use her spell!
Youmu/Meiling: Hai Riku-kun/Riku-sama!!
Youmu and Meiling enter their battle stance and Oko got back up and resumed in barraging them with bullets. They deflect every bullet that is coming right at them, but they were getting closer to him bit by bit. Oko seeing this changed his attack pattern and lets out a barrage of danmaku surrounding Youmu and Meiling. Youmu closed her eyes and she held Roukanken tightly and she started to glow in a silver white color.
Youmu: I'll take this one in a flash. Human Oni: "Slash of Eternal Future"!!
Youmu casts her spell card and she began to slash in all directions in inhuman speeds and all the bullets that Oko fired are starting to dwindle and this left an opening to Oko but they saw that Oko has a barrier set up.
Riku: A barrier, how troublesome. Meiling-san! You think you can take it out in one shot!?
Meiling: I can! And I will! HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!
Meiling begins to charge up her qi and she's enveloped in a bright brown glow as she casts her spell.
Meiling: Chew on this! Qi Sign: "Earth Sky Dragon Kick"!!
Meiling focuses the qi that she gathered on her right foot and went for a flying kick with a follow-up of bullets. The qi in her foot began to form in a shape of an elongated dragon and it hit Oko's barrier. It didn't completely shatter, but it pushed him back nonetheless and there were some cracks to be seen on the barrier.
Meiling: Didn't go all the way through, but this is more than enough. Utsuho! NOW!!!
Meiling got away from Utsuho's sight so she can have a clear target. Before she gets to use her spell, Riku put his hand on her shoulder and reminded her of something.
Riku: Utsuho. We need him alive.
Utsuho: Roger! Explosion Sign: "Mega Flare"!!!!
And as following Riku's order, Utsuho held back on her power and shot her "Mega Flare" at Oko, shattering the barrier completely creating a huge explosion and knocking him back and slammed himself into a tree.
(End OST here)
Riku and the others were shocked that Utsuho's spell was that powerful, it blew Oko back hard to a tree. As Youmu and Meiling went to where Oko was, Riku asked Utsuho if she held back.
Riku: You held back right?
Utsuho: I DID!! I held back to at least 35%. And this is non-lethal by the way!
Riku: Hmmmm...very well I'll believe you. For now, let's go to where Youmu's at. We might get some answers right now.
Utsuho nodded and the both of them went to where Oko was blown away.
When Riku and Utsuho reached Youmu and Meiling, they noticed the cloak that he was wearing. Riku took a closer look and his eyes were wide open.
Riku: This cloak belongs to the Black Fang!
Youmu: Then that means.....Oko joined the Black Fang!?
Riku: No, that can't be possible. Oko's pride won't let him follow someone lower than him.
Meiling: Then what could be the rea-
Utsuho: Guys! Look at his body!!
Riku and the others turned around and they were shocked as they see Oko's body started to crumble bit by bit.
Riku: What in the!?
Youmu: His body is crumbling!
As Oko's body crumbled from the waist down, Oko's eyes returned from dark gold to his usual black eyes. He saw Riku and he showed a small smile on his face and gave him a grim reminder.
Oko: Naga.....e.....I....thank.....you.....now...I can...rest....be....careful....of....Ner....gal...
Riku: Wait! What do you mean by-
Oko: You...have....been.....warned...
And before Riku finished asking Oko, his body completely crumbled and turned into dust, leaving only the Black Fang Cloak intact. Riku turned off the barrier and the surroundings turned back to normal. Luckily that there were no people so they were safe.
Youmu: Riku-kun.....what happened just now?
Youmu asked Riku in worry as this is a first for them.
Riku: I don't know Youmu. This is a first for this kind of thing to happen. I have no idea what happened to him in the first place.....good thing I manage to record everything.
Meiling: Then-
Riku: I'm going to send this later to Yukari-san and the other sages. They have the right to know.
???: Riku!
They turned around and they saw Ran running towards them with her nine tails and fox ears in full view.
Riku: Ran-san.
Y. Ran: What happened here? I sensed someone was using danmaku and all of a sudden I couldn't feel your presence as if you were trapped, and I felt your presence again a while ago, that's why I came here to check.
Riku: I see. Well here's what happened earlier.
One explanation later
Y. Ran: I see. So you four fought Shinomiya Oko in a danmaku battle, then his body crumbled into dust and warned you about a man named Nergal. Did I get everything right?
Riku: Yes. Every single bit of it.
Y. Ran: I'll be reporting this to nee-sama. As of right now, she's currently on an investigation regarding the Black Fang, and with this info that you guys got, nee-sama might be able to solve it faster than expected.
Riku: True. But for now, let's head back inside. Pretty sure that my band mates are starting to get worried.
Y. Ran: Then what about those two people that are hiding in the bushes?
When Ran said that, Riku noticed the bushes were rustling a bit, but decided to ignore it.
Riku: If those who are hiding there are what I think it is, I'll do nothing.
Y. Ran: Are you sure? They might be a threat.
Riku assures Ran.
Riku: Trust me on this one Ran-san. They know what they're doing. Now let's go.
Riku and the other girls made their way back to the hotel and Ran soon followed.
When Riku was no longer in the area, the two people that were hiding in the bushes came out and having a sigh of relief. The first person was an old man that is in his early 50's with brown bushy hair and chocolate brown eyes and the other was a young girl that is at least two years younger than Riku, the girl had green hair, light blue eyes and wearing a black hair band.
Old man: To think Riku and that fox lady found us hiding.
Girl: Yeah, my heart nearly stopped for a second there.
Old man: Got that right but.....did you manage to record everything?
Girl: Yeah, I got everything.
Old man: Good. If we show this to the commander, we might be able to bring back the fang to normal!
Girl: Then let's not waste anymore time uncle. We need to show this to father and my brothers.
The two took Oko's cloak and left the area. Unbeknownst them, there was a man in a purple hood that was watching everything from a distance and similar to Oko, his eyes are dark gold but more menacing.
???: To think that Shinomiya Oko had to kick the bucket that early.....such a disappointment. And he really couldn't keep his mouth shut. I could eliminate the Shinomiya completely but...Lord Nergal's orders are not to touch Japan or the sages will take notice. I better leave or someone will notice something here.
The mysterious man vanished into thin air and also unbeknownst to him, someone is also hiding in the area. It was Koishi who was hiding behind a tree the whole time.
Koishi: Gotta tell this to onee-chan.
Koishi vanished into nothingness as she said that leaving the place as if no one was there in the first place.
Hakugyoku Hotel Stockholm Branch - Player Lounge
After Riku and the girls finished dealing with Oko's sudden attack, they went back inside the hotel and Riku asked the staff where the others are. The staff said that they were at the player lounge, and this is where Riku and the girls split up. Meiling and Ran went back to their room, Utsuho went to Satori's room and Youmu followed Riku to the lounge.
When Riku and Youmu reached the lounge and went inside, he saw Taiga on the ground and Team Liquid with the exception of zai on top of him. Riku guesses that they did this to him is because of his guitar play earlier.
Riku just stared at them and turned back at the door.
Riku: You know what, I'm not gonna ask on what's happening. If you need me, I'll be in my room. I'm tired and I need some rest.
Riku left the lounge and went back to his room. Johan approached Youmu and asked why is Riku acting like that.
Johan: What happened out there?
Youmu whispered Johan on what happened when she and Riku was outside.
Johan(whisper): I see. Any injuries on your side?
Youmu(whisper): We're fine Johan-san and no scratches, although my arms are a bit numb.
Johan: Alright, I'll let you two rest. Then we'll be doing plan B for the remaining two days.
Youmu: Plan B?
Johan: We'll just take it easy for the 3rd and 4th day. I mean we don't want to show our best songs early right?
Youmu: I understand. Now if you excuse me, I'm going to bring Riku-kun something to eat.
Johan: Okay you do that, and I'll tell the others of the plan for tomorrow.
Youmu left the lounge and went straight to the kitchen to get some food for Riku and went for their room. When Youmu got into their room with Riku's food, she saw Riku in the balcony.
Hakugyoku Hotel Stockholm Branch - OG's Room(Riku's Room)
Youmu: Riku-kun, I've brought you some food.
Riku turned around and saw Youmu holding a tray of food and put it on the table.
Riku: Thanks Youmu....
Youmu: Is something the matter Riku-kun?
Riku looked at the sky that is covered in clouds.
Riku: Looks like a storm is coming in a few hours.
Youmu was surprised that Riku said that a storm is coming, but she saw Riku's eyes glowing a bit, it means that Riku is using his ability.
Riku: Youmu, can you warm up the food while I'm away? I'll be back in a bit.
Youmu: Eh? What do you- ah I see.....then be careful out there.
Riku: I will.
Riku got his scarf on the table along with his hat and he cast an invisibility spell on himself as he flew to where the storm is coming.
Riku POV
It took me less than six minutes to make it to the eye of the storm and I gotta say, this storm is strong. If this made a landfall in Stockholm, the tournament might get postponed or worse cancelled. I took a deep breath and my body started glowing in a light violet color.
Riku: Now then, let's calm this storm down.
I started to gather lightning around me and tried weaken the storm and turn it into a regular rainfall. After more than 10 minutes, the storm starts to weaken a lot, and I let out a sigh.
Riku: Now that's taken care of and...wow I'm wet. Better take a bath or else.
I cast another invisibility spell and flew back to the hotel.
As I got back to my room, Youmu was already waiting for me.
Youmu: Riku-kun welcome back. I've warmed up your- Riku-kun you're all wet!
Riku: I know. Let me take a bath first.
Youmu: Very well, dry yourself first. I'll warm up the water for you.
Youmu gave me a towel as she starts to warm up the bath. After I took my bath, me and Youmu ate our dinner and after that, she told me that we will be doing plan B for the 3rd and 4th day.
Riku: I guess he wants us to go for plan B so I can rest my voice. If we get 2 million by tomorrow, then we can use plan B.
Youmu: Then, you'll be sleeping early?
Riku: Later. I still have to send the video to Yuyuko-san and the other sages.
Youmu: I see....Riku-kun....can we have another spar tomorrow?
I just pat Youmu's head and she blushed as well as Myon.
Riku: Sure.
2 day timeskip
Hakugyoku Hotel Stockholm Branch - OG's Practice Room
May 16, 2021 - 9:30 A.M.
The group stage has finished and as Johan planned, we went a bit easy for the final two days. And as I predicted, OG had reached over 2 million votes before the 3rd day started, so we decided to let Yuragi shine, and thankfully he manage to produce some results for the last two days.
We are at our bands assigned practice room waiting for the overall results of the group stage. And as we were tuning our instruments for the main stage, my phone rang and it was a message from ESL.
Riku: Guys, the results are out.
The boys looked at me and gathered around behind me as l showed them the results.
Group A
UPPER BRACKET
1st - OG(WEU) - 5,003,597
2nd - Tundra(WEU) - 3,952,450
3rd - BetBoom(EEU) - 3,209,670
4th - T1(SEA) - 2,400,674
LOWER BRACKET
5th - BOOM RIVALRY(SEA) - 1,793,655
6th - beastcoast(SA) - 1,699,800
Group B
UPPER BRACKET
1st - Gaimin Gladiators(WEU) - 3,780,644
2nd - Thunder Awaken(SA) - 2,409,633
3rd - TSM(NA) - 2,409,633
4th - Team Spirit(EEU) - 2,409,633
LOWER BRACKET
5th - Team Liquid(WEU) - 2,409,633
6th - Fnatic(SEA) - 1,709,693
Me and the boys just blinked several times as we saw group B's results. No way that this just happened.
bzm: Did group B just have a four way tie?
Taiga: How will they settle this?
Riku: I read some of the tiebreaker rules. And it says that whichever band has made the most votes by the final day will take the top spot and so on and so forth.
Johan: Meaning that Thunder Awaken had the most votes for the final day, I mean they were 5th during the 3rd day.
Riku: Or use the oldest method in the book.
Ammar: Oldest?
Riku: Yup. A coin toss.
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.
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bzm: Really? A coin toss?
Johan: I mean, the bands involved don't want to show some of their best songs early, they decided to go the easy way.
Riku: I can see that. And look who we're going to face tomorrow.
Main Stage Day 1 - May 17, 2021
Upper Bracket
OG vs Team Spirit
BetBoom vs Thunder Awaken
Tundra vs TSM
T1 vs Gaimin Gladiators
Riku: Yeah. We'll be taking on Team Spirit.
Team Spirit. A band that was around since the early days of The International, they were a mid-tier level band in Eastern Europe for years and made a huge leap last year, making one hell of a Cinderella run and by beating one of the best bands in the world one by one. Alliance, Team Secret, Invictus, Virtus.pro and PSG.LGD. All of them are eliminated in the Lower Bracket, but they fell short to OG in the Grand Finals in TI10.
By developing a young core between their rookies Yatoro as their lead guitar, TORONTOTOKYO on keyboard and Collapse on drums and some veteran power from Mira on bass and Miposhka's vocals, they proved to everyone that they can keep up with the very best in a matter of months. And by beating Virtus.pro, they claimed the title of Eastern Europe's best band. And the current winners of the Future World Fes after winning it in Amsterdam.
I saw the boys getting very serious finding out that Team Spirit will be our first round opponents.
Riku: This could be your chance to get some payback. And for them, this will be their chance to get some payback against me.
The boys get hyped and want to return to practice, but the door opened and Youmu showed up.
Youmu: Riku-kun! We have to go! I got a call that Yuyuko-sama's plane is about to land!
Riku: Oh right, I forgot about that. Thanks for reminding me Y-
Staff: Is Riku-sama here?
One of the kitchen staff showed up and asked me if I'm here.
Riku: You need something from me?
Staff: Well the thing is, we were informed that the owner will be staying here for the following week and we were planning to throw a welcoming feast for her and the guests but.....
Riku: But?
Staff: The food pantry is almost empty and-
Riku: Don't need to say more. Youmu, you go get Yuyuko-san without me. I'm staying here.
Youmu: Eh? Then what are you going to do here?
Riku: I'm going to help the staff, I'm cooking. If Yuyuko-san asks where I'm at, tell her that.
Youmu: O-okay.
Youmu left the room leaving me, the staff member and the boys of OG.
Riku: Do you have the list of the ingredients that you'll buy?
Staff: I have it right here.
The staff gave me the list and I frowned at the quantity of the ingredients that they put.
Riku: Double it- no scratch that. Quadruple the amount.
Everyone: EH!?!?!?!?!?
Everyone was shocked that I said that they should quadruple the amount of ingredients needed.
Staff: T-then....the budget will....
Riku: I'll cover the expenses. Give me the bank account number and I'll wire the money. And don't just stand there, get your ass moving. You don't want Yuyuko-san wait for her food! And you know what, I'm coming with you.
Staff: Understood Riku-sama!!
I turned to the boys and apologized for the trouble.
Riku: Sorry boys, but we'll hold off practice for today. Let's continue our planning later tonight.
I left the room with the staff to get the ingredients needed and we need to act fast.
Stockholm Arlanda Airport
10:00 A.M.
Yuyuko POV
A day has passed since the group stage finished and now we're about to land in the airport, and the girls are still sleeping very soundly. Ufufufu~
The past two days were quite entertaining for me. After telling the girls everything on what we truly were and even Riku-kun's true self, I was prepared that the girls will start distancing themselves from us, but instead they accepted everything and even want to see Riku-kun using his power. Deep inside, I'm happy that they accepted this without a second thought.
After they got their passports, the girls faced an obstacle that might not let them go...asking permission from their parents. A few were adamant on letting them go but once I told their parents that I will be accompanying them in Stockholm, they agreed. And some of the parents agreed in a heartbeat, like Rinko-chan's parents. They agreed almost immediately when Rinko-chan said that she wants to watch Riku-kun perform as they already know about Rinko-chan's crush on Riku-kun.
As for the plane that we're riding, I decided that we get to use my private plane for this occasion and for the hotel we're staying, it's obvious it's going to be the Hakugyoku Hotel as it's also time for its yearly inspection.
I looked at the window and I see that we already landed. I summoned several of my phantoms to go to the girl's rooms to wake them up.
I drank my tea in silence until...
KYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!
Yuyuko: Ufufufufufu~
10 minutes later
Me and the girls are already out of the plane and I can still see that some of them are reeling from the wakeup call that I did on them.
Chiyu: Why can't you wake us like a normal person do?
Yuyuko: Well, I can still see that some of you were sleeping like a rock so why not use my phantoms to wake you up. Although.....I may took it a bit too far.....
As I said that, I see Lisa-chan clinging on Yukina-chan, Ran-chan on her friends and Kaoru-chan on Chisato-chan, but the latter is trying to get her off.
Maya: Ummm Yuyuko-san, who are we waiting here in the runway?
Yuyuko: Ah~ I called the hotel to send a bus to pick us up. It should be here by now.
And at that moment, we see a long sakura pink bus coming this way and as the bus stopped and the door opened, I saw Youmu coming out of the bus and greet me.
Youmu: Sorry for the delay Yuyuko-sama.
Yuyuko: No need to worry Youmu, you've arrived just in time. Speaking of which, I see Riku-kun is not with you.
The girls behind me also notice that Riku-kun is not here as well.
Youmu: Well Riku-kun stayed behind beca-
Yuyuko: Ara~ you're calling him now "Riku-kun"? Since when did you get so bold Youmu? ~
Youmu blushed beet red when I said that and she was flailing her arms in denial.
Youmu: I-I-It's not what it looks like Yuyuko-sama! It was all Riku-kun's idea to make me call him that way! And I see him as a brother that I never had! I-
Kokoro: Did you say you see onii-chan as a brother that you never had!? Then that means, you're going to be my onee-chan!!
Youmu: O-o-o-o-onee-chan!?!?!?
Kokoro-chan popped out of nowhere and hugged Youmu very tight and having a very bright smile seeing that she got herself an older sister and Youmu is turning into a stuttering mess. The girls were surprised as they saw a side of Youmu that they weren't aware of.
Aya: This is the first time I've seen Youmu-san act like this.
Sayo: Me too. I thought that she has that very calm demeanor but....I guess someone like her has its flaws as well.
Misaki: Kokoro! Let go of Youmu-san! Her face is turning white!
Kokoro-chan noticed it and releases Youmu from her grasp and Youmu was gasping for air.
Sayo: I think it's a good idea to ask where Riku-san is once we get on the bus.
Hina: Great idea onee-chan!
Hina-chan hugged Sayo-chan from behind, causing her to blush.
Sayo: Hina! Don't just hug me all of a sudden!
I'm happy that Sayo-chan is starting to open up to her sister and from what I heard from Youmu, Riku-kun has something to do with it. I'll ask him about this in a later date.
Yuyuko: I agree with Sayo-chan. Youmu, tell us the details as we go.
Youmu: Hai, Yuyuko-sama.
We began to board the bus while Youmu is with the staff helping them in putting our luggage in the bus. After a few minutes, Youmu entered the bus and sat beside me and the bus started to move as it drives to our destination.
3rd POV
While the girls are enjoying the view of Stockholm, Yuyuko asked Youmu on where they left off.
Yuyuko: So Youmu, why did Riku-kun stayed behind?
Youmu: Well, one of the kitchen staff told Riku-kun that the pantry is almost empty, so-
Yuyuko's body suddenly starts to weaken. Just by hearing "Pantry" and "Empty" was more than enough for Yuyuko to enter that state and Youmu is starting to panic.
Youmu: Yuyuko-sama!?
Yuyuko: My.....food...
Kokoro: Look! Yuyuko-san's soul is floating away!
Kokoro pointed out that a sakura pink phantom with a hitaikakushi on top of it which is Yuyuko's soul coming right out of her mouth is starting to float away towards the bus window.
Youmu: AH!!!! DON'T FLY AWAY!!!
Youmu grabbed Yuyuko's soul from the tail, dragging it away from the window, and since she's half-ghost, she can freely touch phantoms physically. After dragging it away from the window, Youmu pushed Yuyuko's phantom back into her body cartoon style.
The girls who just saw what happened were just stunned.
Misaki: Kokoro, does this happen all the time?
Kokoro: Not really. But Yuyuko-san acts like this if it's anything related to food.
Masuki: So she's a foodie then? Hmm.....How about I invite her for some ramen?
Chiyu: Don't bother MASKING. She'll empty your inventory faster than you could blink.
Masuki: Eh? Does Yuyuko-san really eat that much?
Saaya: Now that you mention it. Yuyuko-san bought the entire stock in our bakery two days ago and even reserved at least 50 orders of each bread in our bakery for next month.
Everyone: THAT MUCH!?
Moca: So that's why there were no bread in sight when I came there~. Yuyuko-san really is my rival in bread~.
Youmu: It's not like that Moca-san, Yuyuko-sama has a reason why she eats a lot and.....it's....
Yuyuko put her hand on Youmu's shoulder and she took it from there.
Yuyuko: That will be a story for another time. It is something that you girls are not yet ready to hear. But I will tell you when the time comes. But for the meantime, let's enjoy the sights okay?
The girls returned to do their thing and Yuyuko and Youmu continued where they left off.
Youmu: Now, as I was saying. Riku-kun stayed behind so he can help the kitchen staff and he said that he'll be in charge of the cooking.
Yuyuko: Ara~! Then I can't wait what Riku-kun is making for us tonight~
Meanwhile at the Hakugyoku Hotel
Riku: BRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!
Staff: Is something wrong Riku-sama?
Riku looked at the staff who was worried about him.
Riku: It's nothing...I felt like someone was talking about me. How long till the next batch of ingredients will come here?
Staff: It'll be here in ten minutes sir.
Riku: Fast as always. Let's pick up the pace.
Now back to the girls
Yuyuko who is now in high spirits, asked the girls if they want to go somewhere else.
Yuyuko: Now girls, is there any place where you want to see?
Kasumi raised her hand before anyone did.
Kasumi: HAI! I want to see where Riku-senpai will perform!
Yukina: Now that Toyama-san mentioned it, I want to see it as well.
The other girls also want to see it as well and Yuyuko went to the driver.
Yuyuko: Well now that's decided. Driver-san, take us to the Hovet Arena.
Driver: Understood Yuyuko-sama.
20 minutes later
After 20 minutes of traveling, the bus has arrived at the entrance of the Hovet Arena.
Ran: So this is where nii-san will perform tomorrow.
Lisa: I thought it's going to be a bit bigger though.
Eve: Well this arena is often used for ice hockey matches.
Chisato: You know this place Eve-chan?
Eve: HAI! My parents brought me here to watch a ice hockey match one time and the interior is bigger than you think!
???: And what brings you girls here in the arena? The tournament starts tomorrow.
The girls turned around and they saw a tall man with a bald head and a mustache. He's wearing a black shirt and a dark brown suit and black pants.
Yuyuko knew who he is and gave him a hug.
Yuyuko: Ara~ Jake-kun! It's been a long time since I've seen you!
Jake: Ah Yuyuko! Long time no see as well!
Yuyuko: How have you been? Have you been eating well? I can see you lost weight! And your Japanese is getting better!
Jake: Well....I kinda followed what Iku told me and it worked like a charm! And Iku has been teaching me whenever he has the time. I mean he's also teaching the others as well!
The girls were confused as to how Yuyuko know this man.
Arisa: Ummmm....Yuyuko-san.....who is he?
Yuyuko: Girls, this is one of Riku-kun's good friends, Jake-kun.
Jake: Hello girls. I'm Jake Kanner. I'm also known as "SirActionSlacks" or just call me "Slacks". I'm one of Iku's friends and I'm also the host for this Future World Fes!
The girls couldn't believe that the man in front of them is the host of the Future World Fes. Jake asked them why were they here.
Jake: So, what brought you here? The arena is closed today. We're just doing the finishing touches here.
Yuyuko: Well, the girls wanted to see where the tournament will be held, so here we are.
Jake: I see. Well there's nothing else to see here, so I'm gonna leave you girls. I need to check on the cameras. Enjoy your stay in Stockholm!!
Jake hightailed leaving a cloud of dust and leaving the girls behind.
Rokka: Well.....he was...energetic.
Misaki: I'll say. I think he's as energetic as Kokoro.
Yuyuko: What you just saw was the tip of the ice berg on how energetic he is Misaki-chan. I mean he's been doing this kind of job for more than 6 years.
Tomoe: Wow...now that's dedication.
Yuyuko: Now that he said that there's nothing else to see, anywhere else you want to go to?
Eve: I have a place that I know you girls will like!
Yuyuko: Then lead the way Eve-chan!
Timeskip
Hakugyoku Hotel Stockholm Branch - Kitchen - 4:00 P.M.
Riku POV
Hours have passed since I took charge of the kitchen. The ingredients needed for Yuyuko-san's arrival have all been delivered and the cost was not too much...it's just $25,000(at least 3 million yen) no big deal.
And even if I took charge, I still can't handle it on my own, even though we have at least 40 kitchen staff members here. So I called Ran-san to help me as she also cooks Yukari-san's meals on a daily basis. With her help, we manage to finish most of everything and we're currently on desserts now.
One of the staff pulled up and showed me six-layered white chocolate cake and gave me a sample of the cake to check if it's up to standard.
Riku: Not too sweet. This will do. Make four more of these and we're good.
Staff: F-four more?
Riku: Did I stutter? Just one cake won't be enough for her. Don't worry; I'll help you with this one.
Staff: HAI! Riku-sama!!
1 hour later
After an hour of making four more cakes, the staff told me that I'm free to go and they said that they can take it from here. I left the kitchen and went straight to my room and took a quick shower.
After a few minutes in the shower. I changed my clothes and wore my OG jacket; I went to the lobby to see if Yuyuko-san has made her way here. And as I made it to the lobby, I see some boys of different teams just standing there.
Riku: Yo, what's the hold up?
Raven(Fnatic): Ah Iku. Well there's a bunch of girls at the lobby that are checking in the hotel.
A bunch of girls? Ah, it must be them.
As I go to where the girls are, the boys tries to ask me some questions as I go.
Skitter(Tundra): Hey Iku! You know those girls?
Riku: Yeah, I know them. The one who's talking with the receptionist is my AEURP~!
And before I finished my sentence, I was tackled from behind. And I don't need to look cause I already know who tackled me.
Riku: K-Kokoro...can you get off of me for a bit?
Kokoro let go of me and I manage to get back up. Kokoro was in front of me and I just gave her a headpat.
Riku: Good grief. Well...welcome to Stockholm girls.
Skitter: Hey Iku! Are you okay?
Riku: No worries Skitter, this happens all the time.
Saksa(Tundra): Who's the young lady?
Riku: This is my cousin. Kokoro Tsurumaki. Kokoro, go and say hi. You know your English right?
Kokoro: Hai! My name is Kokoro Tsurumaki! I'm big brother's cousin and Hello, Happy World's vocalist!
They boys were surprised that Kokoro was in a band and looked at me for answers.
Tims(BOOM RIVALRY): She's in a band Iku?
Riku: I was surprised at first but yeah. She's the leader of her band back in Japan but not professionally, from what Kokoro told me, she and her band has been performing in children's hospitals, orphanages and other charity events all over the country.
The boys were impressed that Kokoro and her band perform for a very noble cause; this made them have a huge respect for her.
Miposhka: Just wow. Hopefully we could do those kinds of things in the future.
Hearing what Miposhka said just now made us think. What if we hold our own charity event? I'll talk about this to Slacks later.
Yuyuko-san came to my side and gave me two keycards.
Yuyuko: I want you and Youmu to bring the girls to their rooms. I would love to do it but.....duty calls.
Yuyuko-san left as she begins her inspection. And again, the boys asked me who she was.
Fly: Riku, that was-
Riku: Yup. That was my aunt. Yuyuko Saigyouji, and also the owner of this hotel.
The boys: Wait what!?
Riku: Yeah. Now if you excuse me, I need to bring the girls to their rooms. Oh right, make sure you inform your other members to gather in the 2nd floor at 6.
After I said that to the boys, I told the girls to follow me as I take them to their rooms.
Hakugyoku Hotel Stockholm Branch - 6th Floor
3rd POV
While Riku and the girls making their way to the rooms that was assigned to the girls, Riku congratulated the girls for passing the exams. They asked him on how did he know and he just answered that Yuyuko-san sent him the result ahead of time.
Chu² introduced her band to Riku, he already knew PAREO as she was the first one that she recruited. Rokka-san was the one Riku recommended to her. The other two introduced themselves to him. Riku already know what instrument they play as Chu² sent a photo to him.
The girl with the short blond hair with a look similar to a delinquent was Satou Masuki. Coincidentally, her family owns GALAXY, and when he told her that his aunt Yukari was investing in their Live House, she thanked Riku on the spot and even invited him to their ramen shop which he humbly accepted.
The one with the long raven hair is Wakana Rei. And aside from bass, she's also the band's vocalist. Chu² told Riku that Rei's voice is the real deal which he believed as he knows that Chu² can see talent the same as he do. And another fact, Rei and Tae are childhood friends. Chu² was this close in trying to recruit Tae to her band. Good god Riku recommended Rokka early, or it could've been a disaster.
They plan to debut their band in September which is a reasonable date and even offered Roselia and Afterglow to perform in their debut which both of them accepted, Riku and the girls were seeing sparks coming out of Ran, Chu² and Yukina.....they can see a rivalry from these three.
They met Remilia alongside Flandre as they go and they also saw Sakuya scolding Meiling for sleeping on the job. Riku asked them why they were here, and Flandre just straight out said that she wants to see him play and wants another drumming session, which Riku agreed once they get back in Japan, Ako wanted to join the session as well so he agreed.
They arrived at the rooms and as they entered the room, they see a japanese style room that is good for 20 people. The Hakugyoku Hotel has 8 floors in total. The 3rd and 4th floors are the regular 2 bed suites, the 5th floor is for the family suites, the 6th floor is where the participants of the Future World Fes are staying, the 7th floor is the entertainment area and the 8th floor is the VIP rooms. The first room will have the girls of Poppin'Party, Pastel*Palettes and Hello, Happy World! and the other room will have Roselia, Raise A Suilen and Afterglow.
While the girls were looking around their rooms, Rinko told Riku that Yuyuko revealed to the others everything about him. From his youkai lineage to what abilities that they have and introducing the girls to Gensokyo.
Rinko: Riku....Yuyuko-san told us everything...
Riku: Everything? So everyone now knows I'm half-youkai?
Rinko: But that doesn't change things Riku! You are you! And my feelings for you won't change! I-
Rinko stopped midway as Riku hugged her by surprise.
Rinko- R-R-Riku!?
Riku: You really are a good girl Rinko. Thank you...all of you...for accepting me.
Rinko didn't say anything and just hugged him back tightly.
As the two were hugging it out, there were 4 shadows snooping in, and it was Yukina and the rest of Roselia with beet red faces. Riku sensed the girls behind but decided to ignore them.
The two broke the hug a few minutes later and Rinko was still blushing from it. Riku just pat her head by habit.
Riku: I gotta go now, tell the girls to go to the 2nd floor at 6. We'll talk later.
Rink just nodded and Riku left them and made his way to to his room.
Timeskip
Hakugyoku Hotel Stockholm Branch - Rooftop
10:30 P.M.
Riku POV
The dinner we had a few hours ago, was a very eventful to say the least. As I instructed, the participating bands and even EG who forfeited at the start of the group stage arrived and so are the band girls and the regular guests that were staying. The staff introduced the owner of the hotel to everyone and Yuyuko-san made a small speech. I made a speech as well for a job well done on the group stage.
Everyone enjoyed the food that was served to them. TORONTOTOKYO was in tears again for eating such delicious food, and when I said that I was the one who cooked the food, everyone nearly choked and even asking me that I should cook sometimes.
The most interesting of all was when everyone just stopped eating and saw Yuyuko-san in pure awe as she was devouring dish after dish in a matter of minutes. Whenever she finishes at least 20 plates, she asked for seconds and saw how she finished two 6 layered cakes in just 30 minutes. The band leaders asked me that if this is normal to me and I just nod in embarrassment.
After dinner, me and the boys continued where we left off, even though we didn't practice that much, we covered most of everything that we needed and chose the songs that we're going to perform for tomorrow.
Right now, I'm in the hotel's rooftop along with Yuyuko-san who's eating some dango while Youmu is beside her and on her other side were 30 boxes of dango on one of the benches while their phantoms are out. Remilia-san sitting on her chair while Sakuya-san is at her side, Flandre-chan was staring at the moon with her crystal wings out, Meiling-san was asleep while standing and Ran-san was just relaxing with her fox tails and ears out. For the Komeiji Family, Satori-san wants to sleep so we let her be, Koishi went to play along with Utsuho and Rin.
The reason why we're at the rooftop is because tonight is a full moon, and Youkai such as me, Meiling-san and Ran-san benefits from it the most. As I was admiring the city lights, the door opened and we saw Rinko and my childhood friends coming out.
Riku: Rinko, Chisato, Ran, Kaoru, Kokoro, Chu². What brings you here?
Chiyu: I had a hunch that you and the others are gonna be here. Well you know, you being a youkai.
Riku: Is that so? Well you girls are more than welcome here; enjoy the view if you want.
I just continued admiring the view while Kokoro hugged me from behind and also admiring the view with me.
Ran: Nii-san. Are you nervous for tomorrow?
Riku: Not much. I mean I haven't performed on a big stage for a long while.
Kokoro: Don't worry onii-chan! Me and the girls will be there to cheer you on!
Riku: Thanks Kokoro.
Chisato: But what are you and the others are doing here in the first place?
Kaoru: I've read in this in some of the books I've read back then, some say that youkai gets their strength during the night. And during a full moon, it will empower them even further.
Riku: It not just empower us Kaoru, but it also calms us.
Rinko: Now that you think about it, there was one time that you slept over at my house; you were just by the window staring at the moon. Back then I didn't know why, but now I know. Oh right! I forgot to give you this.
Rinko gave me a black box and Kokoro got off my back, I opened the box and inside was a small black stick.
Riku: Wait a minute...if this is what I think it is....
I looked at Yuyuko-san and she just nodded and deployed a barrier where no one would notice us.
Ran: Nii-san, what's going on?
Riku: I want to test this out.
I made some distance from the girls and holding the stick, I poured my magic power to it and in a matter of seconds the small stick turned into a naginata that is covered in lightning. I tried several moves to see its durability and it passes the criteria that i gave.
Riku: Inpressive. Nitori and Kogasa's work really hit the mark.
The girls were impressed to see my skills with the naginata.
Chisato: Hatate wasn't joking that you can use lightning. It's the first time I've seen it close.
Kokoro hugged me from the back while I was still covered in lightning making the other girls panic except for Chu².
Kokoro: That was so cool onii-chan!
Rinko: Tsurumaki-san! You're about to get electrocuted!
Riku: It's okay Rinko! This is non-lethal. It only tickles her, and she does this most of the time.
Yuyuko-san who just finished eating all of the dangos she brought asked me on my weapon of choice.
Yuyuko: Ara~ a naginata. A very interesting choice there, Riku-kun.
Riku: Well I think it kinda fits me more, so I made a custom order to Nitori and Kogasa to make me a naginata that is collapsible.
Yuyuko: Ufufufufu~ anyway, it's getting late. Riku-kun needs to rest now, the real deal starts tomorrow.
And with that, we cleaned up our mess and went back to our rooms to get ready for the main stage tomorrow.
The next day
May 17, 2021
7:30 A.M
Today's the day of the Future World Fes Main Stage. Me and OG are more than ready. After waking up, me and Youmu went to our usual routine but this time, Eve-san was joining us and to why she was joining us is because she wanted to become Youmu's apprentice. In which she rejected at first because Youmu claimed that she is not qualified to have her own apprentice yet. Me and Yuyuko convinces Youmu to give Eve-san a chance before she can say that she's not qualified, so in the end she accepted Eve-san to become her apprentice.
After our routine with Eve-san, me and everyone else are at the dining hall eating breakfast. I pulled out my phone and sent something to someone in which Youmu notices.
Youmu: What did you sent Riku-kun.
Riku: I just sent something to a certain someone. Hopefully he gets the message.
Youmu: I see. Let's get ready. The bands are supposed to go early today.
Me and Youmu finished our breakfast and as we get ready for the big day.
Cut to Japan
Nagae Mansion - Kyoya's Office
3:30 P.M.
3rd POV
We cut to the Nagae mansion and we see Riku's grandfather talking to someone.
Kyoya: That is what Riku reported to us. Yes, I know he was out of the line but in the end he's still your family. I'll be sending some men to assist you. Okay then, we'll talk at a later date Unyo.
Kyoya was talking to Shinomiya Unyo, the 3rd son of the Shinomiya Family and acting head since Gan'an is not doing well as of late. Normally it would be the 2nd son Seiryu to inherit the position, but he has colluded with Oko so he was exiled as well.
The topic that the two were talking about is the details on Oko's death and his warning before he died and dealing with the leftover mess that he left.
Kyoya was just leaning to his chair until the door opened and he saw Eiji.
Eiji: Oyakata-sama. I bring some news.
Kyoya: Well then, out with it.
Eiji: The girl has woken up.
Kyoya's eyes widen when Eiji broke the news.
Kyoya: Take me to her.
Eiji: Understood.
30 minutes later
Yagokoro General Hospital
Kyoya and Eiji reached the hospital 30 minutes later. Normally it would take them at least 15 minutes, but they were slowed down due to traffic.
One of the nurses has expected his arrival and lead Kyoya and Eiji to the girl's room.
They made it to the room and the nurse left to return to her duty. Kyoya opened the door and he saw a young girl with dark violet hair and dark violet eyes looking at the window. The girl turned her attention to Kyoya and Eiji who entered the room.
Kyoya: We finally meet. Asahina Mafuyu. Don't need to worry, I won't hurt you. How are you feeling?
Mafuyu: I feel better now...thank you....but...who are you.
Mafuyu asks Kyoya and he just fixed his tie and introduced himself.
Kyoya: I'm Nagae Kyoya. Head of the Nagae Family...and.....I'm your grandfather.
Mafuyu: Eh?
A/N: Next chapter is where the Main Stage of the Future World Fes begins.....give me power stones if you like, if not, then it's okay.