Nagae Estate – Riku's Room – May 25, 2021 - Tuesday – 5:00 A.M.
Riku POV
Today's the day. Roselia's first live and CiRCLE's first event. If I'm gonna say that I'm nervous or excited on what's gonna happen today.....it's gonna be both. I'm nervous because this is the first time I've host an event like this, and I'm excited on what will the girls put out tonight. If all goes well and impress various people, then the possibility of Japan joining the PBC is well within reach.
I got up from bed and do some light stretches. After that, I washed my face and changed to my tracksuit so I can begin my daily routine. As I walk through the hallway, I saw Tina who already woken up. Tina seemed to notice me as she walked towards me.
Tina: Good morning, onii-san.
Riku: Good morning to you as well, Tina. Now why are you up early?
Tina: I normally get up this early. Where are you going?
Riku: I'm going for my morning jog. Want to come with me?
Tina: Is it okay with you?
Riku: Of course I'm sure. Normally Youmu would be doing it, but since she's with Yuyuko-san at the moment....and don't think that you're just a replacement. I also want you to explore the place aside from the estate.
Tina: I see...then I would be happy to.
Riku: Good. Ask one of the workers to find you a tracksuit that fits your size. I'm gonna get something while you're at it.
Tina went to the worker that was assigned to her as she heads back to her room to change, while I head to a certain place to get something...or should I say....someone.
As I reached the place, I knocked on the door and seeing the figure in front of me, I just smile.
Riku: Good. Now let's get you ready. Been a while since you were out.
10 minutes later
Tina was already at the front door waiting for me. I saw she's wearing a dark green tracksuit....kinda fits her.....
Riku: Sorry I made you wait Tina.
Tina: It's okay onii-.....what is that?
Tina paused as she was not looking at me, rather at the huge reddish brown dog that is at least 4 feet tall beside me.
Riku: Oh right.....you've only seen my cat Fuyu. This is Homura, my dog. Homura, this is Tina. Be nice to her.
Homura looked at Tina as he was sniffing her. After a few seconds of sniffing.....
*WOOF*
Homura licked Tina as he snuggled her face.
Riku: Seems like Homura has taken a liking to you.
Tina: I can see that...what breed is Homura?
Riku: A Tibetan Mastiff. I picked him up as a pup when he was abandoned...
I was 14 when I found Homura when he was still a pup, more likely he just came out of her mother's womb. The mother was already dead when I found him. There were 4 other pups beside the dead mother, but they shared the same fate, Homura was the only survivor. So I picked him up and raised him.
My parents were concerned as to why I decided to raise a dog where I already have Fuyu, but I explained them the details and both of them decided that they'll keep him. As long as I was the one taking care of him.
At first Fuyu and Homura didn't get along, but 2 months later, they've become the best of friends up to the point where both of them were sleeping together in one place. Reason why I named him Homura is because of his fur....
Tina: So he had it rough as well.
Tina ruffled Homura's fur as he continued to snuggle at Tina.
Riku: Yeah, he had it rough. But after taking care of this big lug....it's worth it. Now come on, we have to be back here by 7:00.
Tina: Hai!
*WOOF*
Several minutes later – 6:30 A.M.
After leaving the estate, me, Tina and Homura began our jog. I'm surprised that Tina can keep up with my pace, maybe it's from the training that she had from Sergey. And Homura is no slouch either. He may be a big dog, but he can match up to us both. We've jogged much more than we planned and Tina was already tired. I mean she's still a kid, it's kinda obvious she'll have lesser stamina than mine.
We're at the local park resting from our jog. Me and Tina were sitting on the bench while Tina was drinking some water from her bottle and Homura was just sitting on the ground.
Tina: You do this every day?
Riku: I started when I was 13. I was already exhausted halfway back then, but as the years go by, I'm getting used to it. Homura as well.
*WOOF*
Tina: Homura seems to always stick to you.
Riku: Yeah. And unlike Fuyu who goes off on her own, Homura here is a loyal boy.
???: Riku? Tina-chan?
Me and Tina looked at the person talking and it was Chisato along with her dog Leon.
Riku: Oh, Chisato. You're here for a walk?
Chisato: I always do this every other day. Leon needs to have his walks after all. What about you?
Riku: This is my daily routine. I always get up by 5. Tina's here to accompany me.
Chisato: I see.....by the way.....that huge dog....is that your dog?
Riku: Yup. This is my dog, Homura. A Tibetan Mastiff.
Chisato: A very rare breed.
Chisato looked at Homura with curiosity and Homura was staring at her.
Chisato: Why is your dog staring at me?
Riku: Homura can sense whether to trust a person or not. And from Homura's case, you can be trusted.
Chisato smiled as she pats Homura on the head.
Chisato: I'm glad that you trusted me.
*WOOF*
Chisato: Are you ready Riku? For your live event.
Riku: Yeah. More than ready. Are you and PasuPare coming tonight?
Chisato: Of course. Our schedule is free today.
Riku: Then be seeing you in CiRCLE tonight. Time for us to go home. Come Tina.
Chisato: Take care Riku.
I gave Chisato a thumbs up as me, Tina and Homura left the park.
Chisato: So Riku also has a dog...good thing Maya-chan didn't see him. And I can see that you made a friend don't you Leon?
*WOOF*
Chisato: Ufufufufufu~
Now back to the Nagae Estate – 7:00 A.M.
After meeting Chisato and her dog at the park, the three of us returned to the estate, only to be greeted by my grandfather.
Kyoya: Welcome back Riku. I see that you brought Tina along with you.
Riku: I want her to explore the city a bit.
Kyoya: That's good. And you brought Homura as well along.
Riku: Yeah. By the way, how's the sake that Yuugi gave you?
Kyoya: It was the best. But still not enough to make me wasted. Now run along now and get your breakfast, today is a special day.
Riku: Yeah. Gotta prepare things early.
At grandfather's instruction, me and Tina took a bath(not together) and changed our clothes and we head to the dining room where Mafuyu is already there with Nazuna.
Nazuna: Good morning Riku-sama, Tina-sama!
Riku: Good morning to you Nazuna. Energetic as always. Good morning to you as well, Mafuyu.
Mafuyu: Good morning nii-san. Got back from your jog?
Riku: Yeah. I brought Tina along with me to familiarize her to the city.
Mafuyu: I see.
After exchanging words with Mafuyu, I ate my breakfast. Just a light one as the Geitondei Special was still on my stomach. After breakfast, I changed to my casual wear and I decided to use the jacket that OG sent me. It's a custom OG jacket that they're planning to use for TI this year.
The noticeable feature on this jacket was another Aegis was added above the band logo, on the right side of the jacket was the flag of Japan, and at the back of the jacket was my real name and stage name imprinted on it and above my name were 7 stars stars, those stars showed the Future World Fes wins that OG had. And among those 7 stars, 2 of them were silver and 5 of them were gold stars.
And from the info I got, the 5 gold stars are signs of the Future World Fes that I won with the band. So Johan will get all 7 gold stars since he's won every single one, and Yuragi and the boys will get only one gold star. According to them, this is the prototype, and I don't know why, They were planning to release this as if OG won't be winning the next Future World Fes in Arlington...well, not my problem.
I decided to use my Rezvani again as I have some plans before I go to CiRCLE.
Kyoya: Are you heading out now?
Grandfather was waiting for me at the front door holding Fuyu.
Riku: Yeah. I need to prepare everything in CiRCLE. And thank god that there are no classes.
Kyoya: Very well. Take care of yourself and good luck.
Riku: Thanks. Fuyu, be a good girl okay?
*nya~*
I nodded and left the estate as I head to CiRCLE.
Live House CiRCLE – 9:00 A.M.
After leaving the Nagae Estate, I drove my way to the supermarket to restock on food for the café outside and additional snacks and drinks for the performers tonight. I also bought miscellaneous items just in case.
And as I reached CiRCLE, the Live House is already open and I see Marina started cleaning.
Marina: Riku! Good morning! Let me help you with those.
Riku: I appreciate the help.
Marina took the other bags from the car and took it inside.
Riku: Where are Aya and Hatate?
Marina: They'll be here at a later time. Their boss called them yesterday.
Riku(thoughts): So Megumu called Aya and Hatate. Hopefully those Tengu isn't planning something drastic.
Riku: So it's just the two of us. Alright, after you finished cleaning, take these bags to the waiting rooms assigned to the girls. And as for me, I'm taking these to the café.
Marina: Roger!
A few minutes later
Live House CiRCLE – Riku's Office
After restocking the café and helped Marina in the majority of cleaning, I went straight to my office to start finalizing everything. From the total number of people attending the event, the total amount of tickets sold and so on.
Riku: So a total of 1,085 people out of 1,600 will be attending....not a sold out but at least it surpassed half. The girl's equipment was sent here in advance and all tuned up so that's good. But I don't understand Leo/need's setup....I'll find out later tonight.
As I was doing my work, the door opened and it was Aya and Hatate.
Riku: You've finally arrived.
Hatate: Well Megumu-sama did call us.
Riku: What did Megumu called you for?
S. Aya: Nothing much. The country's borders just need a little help.
Riku: Then tell that to the Kicchou. Aren't they in charge of the border defense right now?
Hatate: That's what I suggested to Megumu-sama. But anyway, Roselia and Raise A Suilen are here. They're waiting for you at the lobby.
Riku: They're early. Very well. You two, man the front.
S. Aya/Hatate: Hai!
Live House CiRCLE – Lobby
As I reached the lobby, Roselia and Raise A Suilen are already there waiting for me.
Riku: You 10 are here very early. The event starts at 6 remember?
Yukina: We are aware of that. We just want to do a warm up before the event. And I can tell that Tamade-san is thinking the same thing.
Chiyu: Like she said. And let's not forget that some pros are watching this event as well.
Riku: Um...about that....it's not just pros...several scouts from other organizations will also come to watch the event as well.
The girls were paralyzed and just stared at me when I mentioned that some scouts were watching as well.
Sayo: Are you serious?
Riku: Very serious. Dendi told me this 2 days ago. And aside from organizations, several sponsors are also in attendance.
I can see Yukina frown when she heard the word sponsors. Guess she still hasn't forgotten what happened to her father...
Riku: But don't let that be the reason you'll fumble later tonight. You're here to make your mark. And make sure you take advantage. Now, since you girls want to warm up, Studios 8 and 9 are open. Just ask Marina and she'll help you out.
The girls left the lobby to go to the studio, but I stopped Rinko as I can see that she was getting nervous.
Riku: Don't over think what I said just now. Just play your best and let everything take its course okay?
Rinko: I will.
I hugged Rinko to give her some motivation and she returned the hug as well. After we broke the hug, I pat her head as I tell her to move along.
Riku: Now run along now.
Rinko finally left as I took my phone and Dendi sent me a message, saying that I should meet him and the others at the family restaurant near their hotel. He inwardly sighed as he prepares for the outcome.
Riku: Hopefully those boys won't go overboard....
Meanwhile with Roselia – Studio 9
3rd POV
After the hug, Rinko went to the studios to find the girls. She asked Marina-san where Roselia is at and she told her that they're at Studio 9, and when she reached the studio, she sees the girls are getting ready.
Lisa: You took your sweet time with your darling right?
Rinko blushed as she tried to deny Imai-san's claim.
Rinko: I-I DID NOT!
Sayo: Shirokane-san. Imai-san is just messing with you. What did Riku-san told you?
Rinko: He told me not to over think everything he said. Just play at our absolute best and let everything take its course is what he said to me.
Yukina-san who Rinko can tell who was in a bad mood calmed down when she heard what Riku said to her.
Lisa: Yukina. I know your hate about the business side of music, but one day you will have to go along with it.
Yukina: I know.....we'll deal with this once we crossed it. Like Riku-san said, let's play at our absolute best. Let's begin warm up.
Rinko/Sayo/Lisa/Ako: HAI!
Meanwhile with Raise A Suilen – Studio 8
We go to Raise A Suilen who have started warming up, but stopped halfway because Rei was a bit slow on her play.
Chiyu: Stop. LAYER. If you feel something wrong, tell me right now. I'm your leader, and it's my responsibility to take care of my band mates.
Rei: It's nothing.....
Masuki: Nothin' my foot. You're down because ya see Riku and that Shirokane girl huggin' it out right?
What Masuki meant was while Riku and Rinko were hugging, the girls of RaS caught saw them doing it, and it was weighing in Rei's mind.
Chiyu: *sigh* I knew that this is gonna happen.
Rokka: You knew that LAYER-san likes Riku-san?
Chiyu: Aside from LAYER, I can tell that Toyama Kasumi also feels the same. But I can tell that she sees Riku as an inspiration rather than a romantic interest.
Masuki: So that only leaves Rei. But how and when did ya fall for him?
Rei: It was when we were at Stockholm. The way he sings, the way he carries himself on the stage, the air around him kinda attracts me for some reason. Whenever I hear him sing with all his heart, I just can't look away. I know that he already has someone in his heart but....as long I can hear his voice, then that's more than enough for me.
Hearing Rei's feelings for Riku, the rest of RaS huddled up as they think of things on how to tackle the situation.
Reona: What're we going to do Chu²-sama? If LAYER-san keeps this up, it will eat her from the inside.
Chiyu: I know. But I don't know how to deal with this.
Masuki: Rokka, got any idea?
Rokka: I don't know.....I mean, I never fell in love with someone before.
Chiyu: Damn...so no dice....what do I do now? Hold on.
Chiyu took out her phone as she scrolls through her mother's messages.
(A/N: Unlike in the official, Chu² and her mother get along very well due to Riku's influence. The only case is that her mother is WAY too busy to see her and they only see each other once or twice a year.)
Reona: Chu²-sama? What are you looking?
Chiyu: Quiet for a moment will ya? I'm looking for something. I know it's got to be here. I found it.....this could work....
Chiyu lets out a grin and the other members of RaS were creeped out of her grin, even Reona who is loyal to Chiyu. She called Rei and stared on her face.
Chiyu: Rei. Look at me and answer this with your heart.
Rei: What do you want to ask me?
Chiyu: I'll be blunt. You love Riku right?
Rei: Eh?
Masuki: Hah?
Rokka: Say what?
Reona: Oh my~
They didn't expect that Chiyu will be that blunt. But for her, if it's for the sake of her band, then she had to be as blunt as possible and no sugarcoating.
Rei who was caught off guard looked at her leader and seeing her leader being dead serious, she just sighed and surrendered.
Rei: Yes...I love him...
Chiyu: At least you're honest with it...now answer me this, are you willing to throw away your normal life to be with him?
Rei: What?
Masuki: Oi Chu²! What are you-
Chiyu: I'm the one talking!
The girls felt some sort of pressure from Chiyu's words and they can't get a word out. And Chiyu seeing that the girls were getting affected by the pressure, she calmed down and the pressure disappeared.
Rokka: *pant* *pant* what was that?
Reona: *pant* I couldn't get a word out *pant*
Masuki: Chu² *pant* what did you do?
Chiyu: I guess you'll find out sooner than later. Very well, like Riku, I also have an ability. I'm capable of applying pressure. And unlike Riku who has complete control, I'm not able to control it yet as every time I use it, it affects everyone around me. That's why I have this bracelet so I can control it to a certain extent.
Chiyu showed the cyan bracelet on her left wrist, but the girls were still shocked that their leader also has an ability like Riku.
Reona: So Chu²-sama...are you a youkai as well?
Chiyu: No. I'm 100% human. Youkai are not the only ones who has an ability, some humans have one as well. And my family are one of the few. But that will be a story for another time. Rei, you haven't answered my question yet. Are you willing to let go of your normal life to be with Riku?
Rei: I....
Chiyu had enough of this. Seeing her vocalist/bassist being this hesitant made her back out on the question.
Chiyu: You know what, don't answer it.
Rei: Eh? But I-
Chiyu: No. I can see in your eyes that you're being hesitant. And being hesitant can be a burden not just to the band, but for you as well. I will tell you this. If you continue to hesitate, you'll no longer reach Riku.
Rei: But I-
Chiyu: No buts. Instead of giving your answer now, give me your answer before July ends.
Rokka: What will happen when July ends Chu²-san?
Chiyu: From the source that I got.....once the Celestial Gathering ends in August, Japan will be flipped upside down. But let's not think about that, let's focus on what's in the present. And I don't want any of this happen again, understand?
Rei: I'll try....
Chiyu: Don't just try, do it. You're Raise A Suilen's vocalist and bassist. If our vocals are down, then we're toast. And need to remind you that your problems are our problems as well.
Rei: Thank you.....I'll do my best Chu², I'll make it up to you one day.
Chiyu: If that's the case, then make sure that our debut will be the greatest debut in Japan.
Masuki: That's a lot of pressure you've put to Rei, Chu². But I like the challenge.
Rokka: I-I'll do my best as well!
When Chiyu seeing her band mates were getting motivated, she turned around and lets out a smile while saying something that only she can hear.
Chiyu(whisper): Yare yare.......
Meanwhile with Riku
Riku had reached the restaurant where Dendi and the other boys are, and as he entered the restaurant, they're already eating and Riku was just silent to the amount of food on the table.
Riku: Okay...I'm here now and uh....that's a lot of food....
Dendi: MMMMPH~ MMMMPF~ MMPH~ MMMMPH~
Riku: Don't talk when your mouth is full dude.
Dendi swallowed the food on his mouth and drank a glass of water.
Dendi: As I was saying, the food here is so good man, we just ordered what we like on the menu.
Riku: I see....do you have enough money to pay them though?
Kuro: We've paid for the food earlier on, and the staff are kinda polite to us.
Riku: Okay.....then why did you call me here? You know I'm busy at the Live House.
Amer(Miracle-): That's why Kuro called you. If you don't mind, can we see your Live House before the event starts?
Riku: Sure. I mean aside from Roselia and Raise A Suilen warming up, then sure. I'll give you a tour. But finish everything first and get yourselves ready.
As I said that, one of the waitresses called me to see if I want to order something.
Waitress: Sir, do you have anything to order?
Riku: Then let me have 2 slices of blueberry cheesecake and a large lemon tea please.
Waitress: Coming right up.
And after a few minutes, Riku's order came and he eats his cheesecake while the boys finish eating.
Live House CiRCLE – 12:30 P.M.
Riku POV
After Dendi and the others finished eating and I finished my cheesecake, I still have to wait for them to get changed. And once they got out of the hotel, I see Dendi and the former Na'Vi wearing their old Na'Vi jackets and Kuro were wearing their Nigma Galaxy jackets as well.
When we arrive in CiRCLE, the boys were mesmerized by the look of the place.
Dendi: Oi Kuro, there's your logo over there.
Dendi pointed a flag with a logo that looks like an "M" with a ring encircling it.
Gh: I can see Secret and VP as well. But where's Liquid? And OG even?
Riku: They're inside. I put the bands that won TI inside as well as the names of the members who won.
As we got inside, we were greeted by Marina who was manning the front desk.
Marina: Riku, your back. And who are they?
Riku: They're my friends, they want to take a look at the place before the event starts. Where are Aya and Hatate? I told them to man the front right?
Marina: They're at the stage below, adjusting the sound system. A parcel came a few minutes before you arrived.
Riku: Oh right, I did order that one to update the sound system.
The boys followed me as I show them the studios and they see the banners of all TI winners hanging.
Dendi and the former Na'Vi were happy to see their banner gets seen first, Kuro and the others aside from iLTw(Nigma's drummer) saw their names in the Team Liquid banner made them feel nostalgic.
Riku: Wanna try using the studios?
When we entered Studio 4, the boys were very impressed on what they see. All of the equipment inside are up to date, and if any band has no instrument and wants to practice, there are 3 guitars, 2 basses, a drum set, a keyboard and keytar depending on your style and even a DJ table all ready to use.
Artstyle: You really invested hard on this.
Riku: I want whoever comes here to have a great time. To see them smile while playing as a band or finding their calling as a musician.
Hatate: Riku. Peakey P-key are here.
Hatate showed up and told me dem Peakey's have arrived. I'll book them a studio to warm up later.
Riku: I'll go meet them. Guys, if you want to play, then go ahead. Before I leave, every studio has a soundproof option. If you want the room to be soundproof, just go to the control panel here and pick.
I showed them the control panel to where they can change the room from a normal one to a soundproof one. And after that, I left them as I greet Peakey P-key.
Live House CiRCLE – Lobby
Riku: You're the third to arri- whoa...what happened to you two?
I stopped greeting Peakey P-key halfway because I can see the bags on Shinobu and Kyoko's eyes.
Shinobu: We've made some last minute changes.
Kyoko: It took us a day and a half to finish this...
Shinobu: What she said. Are RaS practicing?
Riku: I heard from Hatate that they just finished.
Shinobu: Hmph. Hopefully that pipsqueak puts up a challenge.
What Shinobu meant by challenge is what happened on Sunday.
Flashback(This is when the girls final adjustments in CiRCLE has finished)
Riku: So you're finally done.
Kyoko: Yup. The stage is now to our liking once we start.
Riku: Good that you liked it.
Shinobu: Oi Riku. Before we leave.....I challenge you right here right now.
Shinobu's friends were surprised that she was challenging me on the spot.
Yuka: Shinobu?
Rinko: Inuyose-san, Why do you want to challenge Riku?
Shinobu answered Rinko as she was staring at me.
Shinobu: Over the past years, I've improved myself to be considered one of Japan's best young DJ's, but I can't call myself the best until I show you that I've gotten better than you. So Nagae Riku. I challenge you to a best of 1 right here. Or are you afraid of accepting my challenge?
I'm thinking whether to accept Shinobu's challenge or not. Even just practicing, I can tell that she's improved but...and before I got a world out, Chu² stepped in.
Chiyu: Oi! You can't just challenge Iku like that!
Shinobu: Can it gremlin! I'm talking to Riku not you.
Chu² snapped. Being called a gremlin is something that she doesn't tolerate.
Chiyu: Why you...then I challenge you! I learned to be a DJ from Iku himself! I'm basically his student in DJ. So if you want a piece of him, you gotta go through me first!
Reona and Rokka are trying to calm Chu² down but to no avail. Rei didn't know what to do and Masuki was scratching her head in annoyance.
Shinobu who was pissed off glared at Chu² seeing that someone had the gall challenged her.
Shinobu: You wanted to be beaten so badly? Fine, I'll show you a thing or two.
Riku: ENOUGH!
Lightning bursts out of my body as I was angry shocking everyone in the room especially Leo/need.
Ichika: Eh?!
Saki: WHOA WHAT IN THE?!
Honami: W-what....
Shiho was just quiet, but form her poker face turned into a shocked face when she saw the lightning covered around me, making Shinobu and Chu² stop fighting.
Riku: There are no fighting in the Live House. If there is another case of fighting from one of you, I won't hesitate to take you off the event. Understand?
All of the girls only nodded as they were shaken by my act. I turned to the girls of Leo/need and apologized. Riku calmed down and the lightning around him subsided.
Riku: Sorry for my outburst. I know that you want an answer, but I'll let someone tell you the rundown. It's up to you if you'll trust me or not.
Then I turned my attention to Shinobu and just sighed.
Riku: As for your challenge, I accept. Let's get this over with. This better the last time you challenge me like that Shinobu.
I laid out the rules on the match. It's a best of one song, and the judges are the leaders of the respective groups. That being Yukina, Ichika, Kasumi, Kyoko and Chu². One who gets 3 out of 5 voutes wins. Shinobu turned around as she head to the stage with the DJ table in set. The piece she played is completely different from the last time she played against me. It's more refined and balanced but.....something's missing.
After Shinobu's turn, it's my turn on the table. Good thing Youmu isn't here to see this. I put on the headphones and said one word.
Riku: Perfect Cherry Blossom V3.
(A/N: Just search up "Perfect Cherry Blossom 2014 v3)
After I finished playing and left the table, the five judges were still in a daze, especially Kyoko and Ichika as they ask their fellow judges on what just happened.
Ichika: What happened just now?
Kyoko: It's like the music brought us to somewhere....magical.
Yukina: Riku-san did it again.
Chiyu: Wait again? Riku did this more than one time?
Kasumi: He did it once when he played at Live House GALAXY last month. I remembered that he played Judgement Star that time.
Meanwhile the other members have several words to say.
Masuki: Ya see that right? The way he played the damn table....
Rokka: He played the track most of it manually....it's very similar to Chu²-san.....
Yuka: Now that explains why Shinobu wants to challenge Riku...
Sayo: It's like GALAXY all over again.
Arisa: Yeah.....you know, when Riku-san performed at GALAXY, we saw a girl named Sanae but.....
Rinko: This time it was Youmu-san.
Saaya: That's right. When Riku-kun played right now, we saw Youmu fighting.
Ako: But why was Youmu-san in there in the first place?
Hatate: That's because Riku-kun made that song for Youmu.
The girls turned around and it was Hatate.
Rei: What do you mean the song was for Youmu?
Hatate: Riku has the habit of making music based off of us. Perfect Cherry Blossom is the music Riku created for her.
Rimi: So that means you have one as well?
Hatate: Riku is currently working on mine. And he only does this whenever he has the free time to do it. And so far, he created several for us. He even made a theme for himself.
Riku: Mine is called Flame from the Black Sea. And thank you for the explanation Hatate. Now then, leaders. The verdict?
The leaders didn't even hesitate, they voted me and beat Shinobu 5-0. Even Kyoko voted for me, I looked at Shinobu and looking at her face, it looks like Shinobu is taking the loss too well.
Shinobu: Hmph. Looks like you haven't lost your touch. Despite only did DJ a few times last year. Oi. Your name.
Shinobu pointed Chu² out as she responds in kind.
Chiyu: Tamade Chiyu. Raise A Suilen's leader and DJ. Remember that.
Shinobu: That remains to be seen.
Shinobu went straight to the door as her friends followed after her.
Chiyu: Oi! Where are you going?!
Shinobu: Home. I've seen enough, and Peakey P-key will be making some major adjustments. Riku, we'll send you the details via email.
Riku: Very well. Look at the time. Hatate, answer Leo/need questions to the letter so they can understand.
Hatate: Sure but, where are you going?
Riku: Dendi called and he wants to pick up someone.
End of Flashback
Riku: By the way, where's Keigo? I thought he'll be coming here with you?
Esora: Well his mom called in and probably won't be able to make it to the event. Something to do with the summer festival or something?
Riku: So it's time.
Yuka: You know what they're doing?
Riku: Yup. This year will be Keigo's time to hold the reigns in the upcoming summer festival. Which means, he will be in charge of everything and he will be the lead Taiko Drummer.
Kyoko: That's a lot of responsibility.
Riku: The Horikawa Family has been doing this for years now with the help of the Tsukumo Family. With Keigo being the only child of the family, it's his duty to uphold. Now I know you want some more practice in, you girls can go to Studio 7. I'm gonna stay here a bit and wait for Leo/need and Poppin'Party to arrive.
The Peakey's left the lobby as the head to Studio 7 to practice that leaves only me and Marina.
Riku: Marina, go help Aya and Hatate. I'll take care of things here.
Marina left to help the two tengus downstairs as I check the security cameras on each studio used.
I looked at the security camera on the studio where Dendi is and I can see that they're playing while...headbanging? I didn't know that Dendi is into metal right now.
I checked the other studios and see what they're doing. Nigma is practicing with double guitars and no keyboard, RaS is having snacks. Wait, where did they get those? And before I checked Roselia...
Kasumi: POPPIN'PARTY SANJOU!!!
Ichika: Leo/need is here. Sorry it took us a while.
Poppin'Party and Leo/need have arrived, and from the looks of it, they get along very well.
Riku: Nah, you girls got time. Take the extra time for your practice.
Ichika: Um.....owner-san, there is something that I need to show you. Can I borrow your computer for a bit?
I nodded in agreement and Ichika went to the computer and connected her phone to it.
Riku: What is it you want to show me?
Saki: We want to introduce you our fifth member!
Riku: Yeah, I read it in your band profile, you're performing with a virtual singer. Not gonna lie, I'm getting excited for it, cause this will be a first in history.
Ichika: Alright, I connected it.
The screen changes and from the security cameras changed into a classroom background where the tables and chairs were at the side leaving a huge space in the room.
???: Are~ Ichika?
I flinched at the voice because I am very familiar with it. On the monitor, I see a young girl with long messy dark teal hair that is tied in pig tails, with vibrant pink highlights. She's wearing a black school uniform with a magenta bow tie.
Ichika: Miku, I want to introduce you to the owner. Na-
Miku: Riku? Is that you? Is that really you Riku?
The A.I. named Miku was calling for me surprising Leo/need, but I was just staring at the monitor.
Miku: Riku? Can you hear me? Riku?
Honami: Miku, you know owner-san?
Riku: How are you....I thought you were gone....
Saaya: You know who she is Riku-kun?
Riku: Hatsune Miku....an A.I. that is designed to guide people in finding their own music.....and my mother's greatest creation.
The room went silent from my revelation, and what I didn't know, someone else heard it as well.
Mafuyu: Nii-san. Is it true? Mother was the one who created Miku?
We looked at the door and it was Mafuyu with a face of disbelief and the other members of 25-ji.
Saki: Mafuyu-senpai? Why are you here? And why did you call owner-san "nii-san"?
I looked at the situation and this is something that can't be discussed in an open room like the lobby...
Riku: Everyone, let's continue this to my office. This conversation is something that shouldn't be talked about in an open place. Miku, return to Ichika's phone for the meantime.
Miku did a salute and went back straight to Ichika's phone, which surprised both Leo/need and 25-ji.
Honami: How did she?
Riku: I'll tell you once we're in my office. Follow me, remember, time is ticking. Poppin'Party, go to Studio 2 and start your warm up.
Kasumi: What about Ichika and the others senpai?
Riku: They'll follow soon after I'm done with something.
Poppin'Party left for the studio and the remaining girls followed me as we head to my office to discuss about Miku.
Live House CiRCLE – Riku's Office – 2:00 P.M.
We've reached my office and I told Ichika to connect her phone to my PC so Miku could get in. She did just that and Miku is back and we began to continue where we left off.
Riku: Now, I know you're asking why Mafuyu called me "nii-san", it's because me and Mafuyu are half-siblings.
Ichika/Saki/Honami: EEEEEEHHHHHHH?!
Shiho was just quiet yet dumbfounded.
Ichika: You're siblings?
Mafuyu: As crazy as it sounds, we are siblings. If you want proof...
Mafuyu starts to cover herself in lightning, surprising Leo/need and a nod of approval from me.
Riku: So you've started to gain control of your lightning. Not bad.
Mafuyu: Thank you for the praise, but I think we're getting off topic here. Nii-san, did mother really made Miku?
Riku: It is. Mother had a huge contribution on creating Miku. Everything that Miku is right now, it's all thanks to our mother. You can say that Miku here can be considered our sister. And I don't know why, but our mother named her after her own name.
Kanade: What was your mother working back then Riku-san?
Riku: Mother works as a musician, but she's much more into the digital side, and she is a firm believer that humans and A.I. can coexist in the near future. Many say that is just a childish belief, but some wanted to see it through. So to prove that theory, she decided to do it through music. That's why she created Miku. And I remember that there are others as well. Miku, are you the only one active?
Miku shook her head as she answered me with a smile on her face.
Miku: No. Luka, Rin, Ren, KAITO and MEIKO are active as well. I'm happy to see you grown up Riku. I hope I could see my creator! Where is she now Riku?
I avoided Miku's eyes as I looked down on the floor as I tell Miku the truth.
Riku: Miku....your creator...my mother...she's dead.
Miku: Eh?
Miku couldn't believe what she heard. Her creator, the one who made her from scratch, the one who taught her how to express emotions alongside with the other A.I. and the one who taught them to sing and dance was gone.
Even as an A.I. Miku started to shed tears.
Miku: W-what happened to my creator?
Riku:.....it's better for you to see it yourself rather than telling you.
I opened a certain file on one of the vacant monitors and sent it to Miku. Don't know how I did that, it just came to me. Miku was reading the files and she couldn't even finish reading it as tears were dropping on the paper.
Ena: Miku....why are you crying?
Riku: I gave her the files on my mother's death.....aside from the issue of the Shinomiya with us Nagae years ago.....my mother was killed because of Miku.
Leo/need/25-ji: WHAT?!
Riku: Let me finish. Before I even began my career as a pro, my mother was already in the process on creating Miku. But to do that, she'll need a lot of backing.
Mizuki: Wait. Aren't ya Nagae are filthy rich? Instead of some backing from someone, why don't ya use-
Riku: My mother has done that and my grandfather rejected it. He said that if we want something done, then do it with our own hands. Mother made Miku without spending a single yen on our family money. So she did a lot of fundraising and it lasted several months. When she reached the quota that she needed, she began the one project that could've changed music forever.
Mafuyu: And what is that project?
Riku: Project SEKAI.
Ichika: Project...SEKAI?
I opened another file and turned the monitor so the girls could see.
Riku: Project SEKAI is a project that my mother has been working for years. By creating a separate world from our reality, using the technology that we had, mother and several others have able to form worlds or in better terms SEKAI where virtual singers like Miku can exist. Each SEKAI is in a blank state and once a person used a SEKAI, they can build a world in their own image. But there is a catch.
Kanade: A catch?
Riku: These worlds or known as SEKAI can only be formed from the feelings of people who are struggling to understand themselves. When the feelings of a person are realized, they will manifest in the SEKAI through a song. VIRTUAL SINGERS live in these worlds, with different appearances in each SEKAI, helping people discover their true feelings. My mother created this method as a safety mechanism to make sure that only those who needed it get to use it.
Mafuyu: Then what is that got to do with our mother's death?
Riku: You see, mother wanted to use Project SEKAI as a bridge between humans and A.I. through music. But some others have other plans for it. You girls get my drift.
Ena: Of course.....if an A.I. like Miku is in the hands of some people.....oh my god...
Riku: I guess Ena has the idea. My mother noticed it beforehand, so when the moment the 6 virtual singers were fully functional and the 5 blank SEKAI's have created, mother decided to keep it a secret from the public and decided to halt the project entirely.
Mizuki: Why would she do that? Isn't her aim to connect-
I interrupted Mizuki as I continue to explain.
Riku: I was about to go there. Anyways, she decided to halt the entire project down because she is aware of the possible drawbacks if the SEAKI's fall in the wrong hands, things could go south very fast. She knew that someone wanted her dead. So to make sure that the SEKAI won't go to the wrong hands, she made sure that only with a strong emotion can activate a SEKAI. And then....the rest is history...she died along with my father the moment I won The International...
Ichika: This is.....unexpected...to think that the SEKAI was that deep.....
Shiho: We didn't know Ichika.
Mafuyu: So she knew that she had a target on her back. She knew the risks and she still went for it.....
While the girls were taking all the information in, Miku dropped to her knees and began to cry.
Miku: So.....it's my fault....it's my fault that my creator isn't here anymore.
Ichika: Miku! It's not your fault! You're here for a reason!
Saki: Exactly! Because of you and the SEKAI, Leo/need is formed!
Kanade: Because of the SEKAI, we were able to find our true friends and changed us for the better.
Miku: Everyone.....
Seeing the other girls are trying to cheer Miku up, I turned the monitor back and faced Miku.
Riku: Miku, look at me. Everything is not your fault. My mother knows what she's gotten into and she accepted it. She was more than prepared, but we didn't expect them to act very fast. I know my mother didn't make a mistake creating you, the other virtual singers and the SEKAI. I know she won't be here to see her dream realized, but I want you to continue helping them, the one who created their SEKAI's.
Miku: Riku.....
Riku: Remember, you are Nagae Miku's Legacy. And as her son, I promise to see this through.
Mafuyu: Not just nii-san. I will also help. I am also a Nagae.
Miku: Mafuyu...thank you....both of you.....
Riku: Glad that your spirits are up again. Now on to other matters. I know that my mother kept of what remains of Project SEKAI from the public, but how did you all manage to find Miku?
Ichika: I discovered an "untitled" song on my phone, and when I played it, I was sent into the SEKAI. And there, I met Miku along with Luka and both of them invited me to play with them. So I decided to use the SEKAI to reunite with my friends and find our true feelings with it.
Riku: So your desire to reunite with your friends was the reason Miku and Luka appeared. And from what I'm seeing at the background, your SEKAI is a school themed SEKAI.
Ichika nodded as she turned around to see her friends have something to say.
Saki: So that's why....you really miss us didn't you Ichika?
Ichika: I want us to return to the old days.....if possible.
Honami: Don't worry Ichika, we're here now and we'll continue to be your friends.
Shiho: Hm. Like the same as always.
I nearly let out a laugh and Shiho notices it.
Shiho: Got a problem on what I said?
Riku: No, no, I got no problem. It's just, you just said a word that someone I know always say.
Shiho: Hmmmm.....alright.
Riku: Then what about you 25-ji? How did you discover Miku?
Kanade began to explain from the start. From how it began from a simple circle with them not knowing who they are or what they look like. They only know each other through their alias.
She also added that they discovered Miku when one of the members lost contact with Kanade, she found an "untitled" song by chance, and that's how they formed their SEKAI.
She also told their story on how it began with just Kanade and Mafuyu, then after that, Mizuki and Ena joined and that's how 25-ji Nightcord de was created.
Riku: I see...so Leo/need and 25-ji have 2 of the SEKAI's. Do you know who has the other 3?
Saki: Yup! My brother has one! He's with a group called Wonderlands x Showtime!
Saki raised her hand high as she answered my question. And hearing the name of the group, reminded me of Hello, Happy World!
Shiho: My sister also has one, She's in an Idol group call MORE MORE JUMP.
Riku: An idol group? Interesting.....what about the last one?
Mizuki: I know who has the last one, An and her group called VIVID Bad Squad has it.
Riku: So all 5 blank SEKAI's have already been used....
After that, I told both groups to keep the Project SEKAI information a secret, and also I told them that if the other groups have time, invite them here in CiRCLE to discuss this as well, in which they agreed.
Riku: By the way Mafuyu. Why are you here in the first place?
Mafuyu: Grandfather wanted to give you this. He said that you know what to do with it.
Mafuyu gave me a box and when I opened it, it was 3 black and 2 red paper charms.
Riku: Thank you for giving me this. Leo/need, I know that I've held you up for a while, go to Studio 5 and begin warming up.
Leo/need(minus Shiho): Hai!
Leo/need left to warm up and I looked at Mafuyu and her friends.
Riku: As for you four, since you're here early, I want your help on something.
The girls looked at me confused as they looked at each other then back to me.