BANG! A shockwave reverberated through space, creating everything and everyone in it—including the stars and the people destined to bond with them. In the present day, 2029, the entire universe thrums with power granted by the stars.

I awake, yawning as I stretch out in bed. Of course, I stretch too much and catch a cramp in my calf. "Ow!" I scream in a few moments of pain, trying to hold back tears. Then I hear a familiar voice from downstairs calling my name.

"AKAME! Come down and eat breakfast!"

Must be Mom, I think, still rubbing my leg.

My calf still aching, I limp down the stairs and reach the bottom to see my mom smiling, already setting down eggs and bacon in front of me. I sit down and start eating without hesitation.

"So, today's the day you're going to bond with a star. Are you ready?" she asks.

Without a moment's pause, I respond, "Of course I am. I'll be stronger than every Guardian—or anything else—in the universe."

She looks me straight in the eyes. "Well, I don't doubt that you'll be strong. Just don't get overconfident."

Overconfident? I have every right to be overconfident. I know I'm the best. "I'll be ready for whatever comes. Anyway, I've gotta go meet up with Somuchi and Raven for the bonding."

I quickly throw on some shoes to match my fitted graphic tee and loose-fitting cargo pants, then head out. The cool evening air wraps around me as I step outside, a sharp contrast to the warm comfort of the house. The familiar sounds of Starlight City hum around me as I take a moment to appreciate the view. The sunlit skyscrapers shimmer, their glass facades reflecting light like diamonds scattered across the city.

But I don't have time to linger on the sight. I've got bigger things to focus on—like becoming the strongest Guardian the universe has ever seen.

As I walk down the vibrant streets, the sun bathes everything in a golden hue, making the colorful storefronts and lively crowds shimmer. It's one of those days where nothing seems like it could go wrong—unless, of course, you're about to face my unmatched wit.

Lost in my thoughts, I don't pay much attention to the people around me. That is, until I see her.

Lunar.

She stands out like a comet streaking through the daytime sky, her teal hair tied in playful twin tails that bounce with every step. She's talking to someone, probably one of her friends, but the moment I see her, everything else fades into the background.

I can't help myself. A smirk forms on my lips. "Hey, look at that!" I call out to no one in particular, but loud enough for nearby pedestrians to hear. "Not just a regular day in Starlight City—we've got a rare celestial event right here."

Lunar's head snaps in my direction, her expression a mix of confusion and annoyance. I revel in it. Maybe I struck a nerve. "What? Can't a guy appreciate beauty in broad daylight?" I shrug, my confidence soaring. "Don't worry, I'm not just here for the starry views!"

Her friends roll their eyes, but Lunar doesn't seem fazed. She gives me a scrutinizing look, as if trying to decide whether I'm worth her time. I can practically see the gears turning in her head. If she thinks I'll back down just because she's pretty and a little intimidating, she's got another thing coming.

I continue walking, still grinning. I have a feeling this won't be the last time we cross paths. And honestly, I wouldn't have it any other way.

As I walk up the winding path to Celestial Haven, excitement surges through me. The sun hangs high, casting its golden rays over Starlight City, and I can't help but grin. This is it—the moment that could change everything.

As I crest the hill, I see the circular clearing ahead, where destiny awaits. The wildflowers sway gently in the breeze, their vibrant colors a stark contrast against the brilliant blue sky. But what catches my attention first is the duo standing by the altar.

Raven and Somuchi are already there, leaning against the ancient stone carvings that adorn the site. Raven's dark hair is ruffled slightly by the wind, and his gray eyes sparkle with mischief. Typical Raven—always ready for anything, always a bit of a wildcard. Somuchi, meanwhile, stands straight and proud, arms crossed over her chest, radiating that stoic aura that demands respect.

"Yo, Raven, Somuchi!" I call out, my voice confident as ever. "How strong do you think your stars will be? Just so you know, I'll have the greatest star—not just out of the three of us, but everyone in the world."

Somuchi gives me a deadpan look before speaking. "Sure, if overconfidence were a requirement for power, you'd be unstoppable. Unfortunately, that's not how it works."

Raven bursts into laughter, raising his hand to cover his mouth as he leans back, clearly amused.

DING! DING! DING! A bell rings throughout the Celestial Haven, its echo bouncing off the high walls and open sky. I look around and notice that even more people have gathered now. The air buzzes with excitement and tension. My eyes scan the crowd, not looking for anyone in particular, just taking in the scene—the nervous faces, the eager ones, and those trying too hard to seem calm.

Then, I see her again.

Lunar.

She stands out like a comet in a starless sky. Everything about her is sharp—from her posture to the gaze that looks like it could cut through steel. She's not blending in. In fact, she's doing the opposite. Dressed in fitted clothes that cling to her lean, athletic frame, she moves with the confidence of someone who knows she doesn't have to prove anything to anyone. Her silver hair shimmers under the light, making it impossible not to notice her.

I smirk again. "Looks like she decided to grace us with her presence." My voice is low, more for myself than anyone else, but my confidence is as loud as ever. No way I'm letting her slip by unnoticed—not by me.

I wonder if she's as cold and distant as she seems or if there's something else beneath that icy exterior. Either way, it doesn't matter. Not now. Not when I've got my own star to think about but I'd like to see more of her, hopefully we'll cross paths again soon

With one last glance, I shove my hands in my pockets and move forward, ready for whatever comes next.