Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Long ago, there was a world where people would be in unity, to sing in unison, to stay in peace! This world was called Euthiumyia.
But peace was overtook by the Forbidden Voices, who corrupted anyones mind to make them go insane and take over their bodies for their own gain.
Now, you awakened from your slumber after the destruction.

Prologue: Awakened Sleep, Calls of new change.
The Rokkyū remains unchanged by her rules while she just watches her nation fall before her. They only change once Fate himself has set a course

Chapter I: Rising Waters with Heavy Hope
When the waters rise, and the rain falls, the Jikkyū will watch as the Leviathan wakes from its sleep

Chapter II: Orchestra of the Prophecies
The Orchestra was conducted, but also played by Nikkyū herself. As they play, the prophecies will be fulfilled

Chapter III: Simulation In The Sands
The Gokyū has isolated the whole nation from all of Euithiyum, but no one knows why, except the ######

Chapter IV: Behind the Scenes
Her shows are just for fame and attention. The Hachikyū will act and play for her part, but he, Fate himself, will take it all back when the Time has come.

No time to say anything. HIS struggle is part of HIS journey.

Kūkyo…save us all.

The script is blurred....

Chapter Text

Save us..

Kūkyo…

Save us all….

I felt like I was drowning. Was I? I’m an overthinker. I couldn’t open my eyes, nor could I move my body. My memories are fuzzy..I couldn’t remember what happened before I was in a deep slumber.

“Hey! Are you awake..!?”

I stirred as I heard that soft voice. Was that a girl? Why did it sound so stupid? I slowly opened my eyes, seeing the bright sun and blue sky. I looked up and flinched seeing a marmalade haired girl with a big pink bow on her hair. The marmalade was a bit panicked when she saw me wake up. She leaned in closer to my face and..She slapped me?!

“Finally, you woke up. You washed up here when I lost my pen!” She scoffed, looked away, then back at me again. I sat up and felt pain in my body.
“Did you steal my pen!? It’s pink and has PINK FLOWERS!”
I groaned.
“What is wrong with you?! Relax little girl!” I scoffed and rolled my eyes. “And..where am I?”

Marmalade girl looked at me like I was a complete idiot, like I didn’t know 1 + 1. She sighed and spoke softly.

“You’re in the region of Shokubutsu, Modori Shore.”
She paused and thought of her next words, then spoke again.
“Perhaps you lost your memories?”
Dang, how did she know that? Unless..
“Are you a writer?” I questioned Marmalade

She nodded and smiled.
“That’s right! I’m a novel writer! And I…just guessed ya know?”

The girl stood up and offered her hand. She went from slapping my face to being friendly with me. How weird. I accepted her offer of her hand and stood up, feeling that pain in my body once again. I winced.

“My name is Florette, a famous writer from the GreenTea Bookstore.” She started. “I won Author of the year several times, which was 5 times.” Marmalade girl paused. “I forgot to ask your name.”

My name. Right. My name.

“Kūkyo.” I said bluntly. “And don’t ask me the meaning”

Florette chuckled, she giggled, then bursted into laughter.
“I don’t know why-“ She continued laughing “That’s so lame!!”

Ugh, I can’t stand her for 5 seconds. Where’s the tape anyways?

“Seriously though!” I raised my voice a bit. Not too loud though.
“I..just lost my memories and I can’t even remember what happened before I..slept.”

Florette thought for a moment. Her green eyes brightened up.

“I know someone who could help you! The ruler of Florderisa, Meiling!”
She exclaimed with excitement.
“This is a moment in HISTORY!”
Florette jumped around, then spoke again.
“Ok..I’ll tell you the details later though. Right now, you need to get washed up, new clothes, and really need some accessories on you. Nice eyes by the way”

What was this girl saying? She’s weird, but I guess I’m starting to get used to her personality.
Florette walked me to Florderisa while she was yapping about this “book” she wrote. Something about being painted in the stars? Wasn’t that an old bedtime story? As we walked on, we got to big gates that had green flowers on them.

There were 2 guards. One with a serious look with blue eyes, and the other having brown eyes.

“Show ticket pass!” The brown eyed guard said.

Florette held up her ticket pass.
“Here you go. This guy is my guest by the way.” She pointed to me and I nodded!

The blue eye guard saluted.
“All clear!”

The gates opened with a big rumble while it opened. Florette and I walked inside. Florderisa..that name sounds familiar but I can’t put a finger on it. Where did I hear it before?
Florette stopped and nudged me to stop walking.

GreenTea Bookstore

“So,” I began. “This is the store you were talking about?”
Florette nodded.
“Yep! It's been famous around Florderisa for a long time! Thanks to my mom, I won't be here as of today!”

Florette opened the doors for me, and we both went inside.
She pointed to a light green door.
“That’s the guest room, you can stay there for now.” She said,
“But!” She added. “I want to show you something in my room”

Florette started to drag my arm as we headed to her room upstairs. She let go of my arm and gestured for me to go inside. Inside her room were pictures of her family, and some paintings.

Florette held up a book and sat on the edge of her “coquette” bed.
“Look,” She held the book up.
The book had a navy blue cover with white stars. The title said:

Painted with the Stars

“Huh?” I got a few flashbacks, but all of them were too fast to see.
“I think I saw that book somewhere.” I stated.

Florette raised her eyebrow.
“Somewhere eh?” She questioned. “Well, this book was written a long time ago. Written by my mom herself. This book is about stories of the stars. You know, bedtime stories for children?”

I just rolled my eyes and scoffed. Florette gave the book to me. I ran my hand through the cover of the book.

“Get some rest, Kūkyo.” She softly said. “And get a shower! I’ll get you some clothes that fit your style.”

At night, I laid on the guest room bed and fell asleep right away.

“My dear, Kūkyo..”
“You will return to us.”
“Soon enough, you remember my name,”
Etté.

Chapter Text

I wake up feeling refreshed. Good thing I got a good sleep instead of drowning in water for who knows how long? I stood up and walked to the closet. Surprisingly, I saw clothes that actually fit my taste of fashion. How did this girl know my taste in fashion? I wondered about that for a few minutes before I put on some clothes.
I put on the black long sleeves and the black pants. I put on the purple and gold accessories Florette recommended to me. I tried on the heel boots and..I liked it. Makes me look cool, I said that to myself. I didn’t care to be honest. Plus, the heel wasn’t really that high.

I went downstairs to Florette's bookstore, yawning every 5 seconds. Reaching the small kitchen at the back of the bookstore, I sat down seeing Florette writing something in her notebook.

Out of my curiosity, I asked her.

“What are you writing?”

“You would be a great male wife!” Florette said casually.

I was speechless. WE’VE JUST MET YESTERDAY, and she had the audacity to say I would be a great male wife?? What is wrong with this girl? She’s freaky as heck.
Florette went to open the bookstore at exactly 11 am while I explored her bookstore and read some books while doing so. At night, a strange white hair man that looked like he was in his 20s opened the doors.

“Hello, Miss Florette”, the man said.

Florette smiled at him and nodded. She walked up to him and looked him in the eye.

“Hello, Mr. Fei!” She says excitedly.
“Oh and, this is Kūkyo, my guest. Kūkyo, meet Versa Fei, he is actually one of my closest friends. The cool thing is, he’s a snake that’s immortal!”

I nodded in response. I was also surprised that he was immortal.
Mr. Fei nods back.

“Mr. Fei, you’re back. What brought you here to the bookstore? Another cup of tea?” Florette questions.

Mr. Fei smiled.

“Oh, I heard you have a new guest here. So I wanted to introduce myself to him.” He says. He nodded at me with those golden snake looking eyes.

Florette beamed at that.

“Sure! I’ll leave you guys alone to chat with.” Florette left the bookstore with her journal.

“And plus, I have to do an interview so see ya!!” She yelled before she disappeared through the corners of the city.

Mr. Fei gestured to me to come to his office. He opened the door for me and I nodded. In the corner, there was a rope?! Is he ok!?

“Uh, you ok?” I asked.

Mr. Fei chuckled at me as he took off his jacket and glasses.

“I’m a maniac when I tried to kill myself. Honestly, I don’t like being immortal since I lived for 200 years. Florette tried stopping me a lot and just told me to accept it, but I just couldn't.” Mr. Fei explains with calmness.

Mr. Fei went over to the mail section. There was a black letter that had a red stamp with a red flower on it.

“Huh,” Mr. Fei began, “this looks like it’s for you.” He handed me the letter as he walked to me. I politely took the letter and carefully ripped it open. This look like an invitation to a tavern?

Dear Kūkyo,

I knew you would be in this store when the time comes. Say, let’s meet up and have a friendly chat with each other? You actually have to come. If you’re thinking of not coming, I will be dragging you myself. So please, meet me at the Lightshade Tavern (just a few minutes on the right, then left), so we can..be friends.

The letter ended there. There was no name, but that person knew my name. I looked back at Mr. Fei then went back to the letter. I gulped. I didn’t want to be dragged!

“Mr. Fei, I’m going somewhere for the day. Just tell Florette that I’ll be at the Lightshade tavern.” I said to him,

Mr. Fei nodded.

“Alright, Kūkyo. See you later.” He waved as I walked out of the office.

I put on my purple boots and went out of the bookstore. Ok, so this tavern was a few minutes to the right, then I just had to turn left. I accidentally bumped into people along the way, and they gave me weird looks. They all looked..familiar somehow.

“Probably just me.” I thought to myself.

I finally reached the Lampshade Tavern. I took a deep breath and went inside the tavern. There were a lot of people in this tavern. Such idiots waiting to get drunk and all that. I sat in the chair of the counter, and this black hair looking guy was beside me. I noticed that he had a medium dragon tail with red and black scales.

He was wearing red and black attire with his little stupid top hat matching it. The guy took off his hat and opened his eyes. They were..red. I could tell that he wasn’t from Florderisa. Something about him feels and looks familiar. I shook my head and realized I was staring at him. Why was he kinda hot? The guy noticed this and smirked while his dragon tail was swaying side by side.

I ordered a martini and instantly got the drink.

While I was drinking, the guy tapped my shoulder. “Hello there.” He said to me.

I flinched and looked at him.

“Uh..hey?” I said awkwardly while I sipped on my drink I ordered. I didn’t know what to say.

“You look like you’re going to kill me at this second.” I sorta glared.

He shook his head and chuckled.

“No…why would I do that? That would ruin the whole experience of being here with you.” He squeezed my thigh.

“Ettè,” he said, holding out his other hand, waiting for me to shake it.
“I was the one who sent that letter to you. I must say, you look pretty~” He said in his raspy tone.

I couldn’t help that my face was burning. Why was he so attractive?! I shook my hand with his.

“Oh, that explains kinda the red and black attire you have. It’s nice.” I complemented and it seemed to make Etté smile.

He rolled his head around and asked me a question.

“Do you know about the Kyū Order?” Etté asked me with that idiot smile.

I shook my head no.

“Well,” Etté began, “It’s a group of non but human-looking types of people that deal with this world. There’s 11 members of the order, each one having a rank to it. There’s Time, Prophecy, Ascension, Change..and much more that I won’t say.” He paused.
“Meiling here is the Rokkyū of Change.”
Etté grinned and leaned forward.

“You can trust me~” He said in a husky voice.

I blushed at his little comment, then I softly giggled.

“My my, you looked lovely for a guy. All the girls would be swooning by now from your looks, and it’s happening right now anyway.” He said nonchalantly. He continues on,

“And that outfit suits you.” He complimented me. Then, he went closer to my ear as his breath was tickling my skin. “Do you remember me?” Etté asked.

“I..don’t know, but I somehow know you.” I answered his question.

Etté smirked. I could even hear him smirk. I felt dizzy, was the martini having an effect on me? Etté caressed my hand with his thumb. Oh my gosh- his touch is so hot-

“You know, there’s a dance going on. It would be boring if I didn’t have a partner to dance with. Dance with me?” Etté smiled.

I don’t think I want to dance. This guy started to look suspicious to me. I got up.

“No thank you.” I said politely.

Suddenly, he grabbed my wrist which caused me to drop my martini.

“It wasn’t a request.”

Etté pulled me close to his face and started to lead me to the dance floor. WHY ME?! On the dance floor, I was pretty embarrassed at first, but this guy gave me butterflies. The way he leads the dance is almost like I could scream like a little girl getting candy.

Etté twirled me around a few times. His hands intertwined with mine feels so warm. He leaned in closer to my face, his lips brushing against mine. His free hand went up to my waist as he twirls me around once again. Etté then went up against my lips and softly spoke.

“You have lovely lips as always.” He whispers. As always? What did he mean by that?

As I was thinking about it, he suddenly attacked my lips with his. It felt..warm and sweet. His tongue demanded entrance to mine which was rough, hungry, and greedy. I closed my eyes as I put my hand on his waist. Etté stopped and trailed his tongue to my neck, making a soft wet trail. He slowly bit my neck that left a mark.

Etté’s teeth were sharp, but not sharp enough to pierce my skin. Just then, I heard a familiar voice shouting at me as Etté pulled away from me.

“KŪKYO! YOU DIDN’T ASK MY PERMISSION!!” Florette shouted for me.

Etté smirked and looked at my red face.

“Well, well, your little friend is here. I guess this little date should come to an end~ But let’s have another one once more…when that time comes.” Etté says and lets go of me. No..I want to dance with him more. My burning desire for him was strange, even though I just met this guy!

I walked to Florette as she dragged him out of the tavern, shouting at me.

Meanwhile

Etté groaned.

“I wanted more time with him! We never did..” he whined.

A black haired girl with red streaks, purple clothing with her blue hat behind her hair rolled her eyes.

“I want his lips again…” Etté mumbled. “You would understand if you were me, Michikiko.”

Michikiko scoffed at him.

“Suck it up man. You’ll meet him once more after the prophecy has been full-filled.” She said annoyingly.

“Hmph,” he pouted, “When that time comes, I might just break the rules just for Kūkyo…”

“My..”

“Reincarnated lover..”

Chapter Text

The week after I visited the tavern, Florette knocked on the door softly. When I didn’t answer, she would knock more violently. I didn’t feel like getting up, but I had to before she yelled at me like a high school girl screaming at a bug.

“Get up! It’s important!” Yup, she was starting to get irritated.

I got up and got into my clothes, still thinking about that Etté guy. I opened the door and stepped out of my room while I was rubbing my eyes.

“What is it..” I grumbled.

Florette dragged me to Mr. Fei’s office and closed the door. Mr. Fei wasn’t in the office, it looked like he had taken a run for it.

“Kūkyo, the city was under attack this morning. Mr. Fei and I have decided we all split up.” She says seriously.

What?! Under attack? I only got here a week ago and now it’s in chaos! I was alerted about the news.
Florette continued to speak.

“This isn’t safe anymore. We’ll find you, I promise!” I’ve never seen Florette this serious.

I sighed and nodded.

“What do you want me to do?” I asked.

She thought for a moment and just scoffed.

“Run. And don’t get caught by the Lotus Guild, okay?”

Lotus Guild?! What the heck was the Lotus Guild! A Florette shoved me out of the bookstore and told me to run away.

“WAIT-“ I yelled out, but Florette was going to yell at me again for the 100th time again. So I just side eyed her and kept my mouth shut and ran off because what the heck is there to do besides running.

WHY WAS FLORDERISA SO BIG?!

Later on, I saw some people in teal armour with polearms in their hands. I could assume they were the Lotus Guild. I looked behind, and saw a wanted poster, WITH MY FACE?! WHY DO I LOOK SO BAD IN IT!

Suddenly, someone grabbed my arm and covered my mouth with their cold hand.

“Shut your mouth before they spot you- I mean- us.” It was Etté again, he looked hotter than before. But why were his hands so cold?

I spoke in a muffled voice,

“What’s going on?! Why is there a wanted poster with my idiotic face on it? Do I look ok?! I look like I’m on drugs!” I almost yelled.

“Do you ever shut up?” Etté said nonchalantly. “Because I like to put your mouth on mine.”

“Wha-“. I was confused, so I toned down my voice.

“You high?” I asked.
“High for you.” Etté said.

There was silence before Etté spoke again.

“The ruler of Florderisa, Meiling, had noticed your arrival a week ago. She recognized you as someone she knows. The wanted poster? Oh, it’s because of me.” Etté explained.

“Meiling here doesn’t like me. She has beef with me and we have history with each other.” He chuckles.

“Let go..!” I was trying to free myself, but Etté’s cold hands grip on me went tighter. Eventually I gave up and relaxed a bit.

“Why are she..and the Lotus Guild after me?” I asked.

Etté thought for a moment before speaking.

“Meiling sensed a shockwave presence ever since you got here. Here’s the thing..she hates people who bear the element of ‘Shockwaves’. 3,000 years ago, she executed people who resonated with ‘Shockwaves’.”

He chuckled again.

“People are so easy to manipulate here in Florderisa. Everyone thinks that Meiling is capable of change. I mentioned that she was the Rokkyū of Change a week back.”

I raised my eyebrow.

“What does this information have to do with Meiling?” I asked again with more curiosity.

Etté leaned into my ear, his breath tickling my skin.

“Meiling is part of a group which is called the Kyū Order, a group of people who deal with world events and all like that. She took the role of change as the rank of the Rokkyū, but she isn’t who you think she is. She did something 1,000 years ago during ‘The Catastrophe’.” Etté was saying all this information while trying not to be loud, or else the Lotus Guild would find us.

“If the Lotus Guild or even Meiling found me saying all this, they would kill me on the spot.”

Etté looked around and started dragging me quietly.

“We can’t be here..I’ll take you to my place where I’m staying for a while. Remember though, Meiling isn’t who you think she is.”

I tried not to gasp while he started to quietly drag me.

Etté spoke again,

“When we’re at my place..I can have some fun with you~”, he said in a raspy voice. Honestly, it was attractive-

I was wondering what he meant when he said ‘Meiling isn’t who you think she is’. He guided me to this hotel called “Under the Umbrella”, he almost shoved me in but he held back. I never thought Etté would have this much self control. In the hotel lobby, it was quite empty. Etté looked behind to look at me and expected me to follow. I nodded and started to follow him. Etté led me to a room on the left side of the hotel lobby. He bowed down at the entrance of his hotel door and opened it.

“Beautiful people go in first.” He winked.

I rolled my eyes playfully and went in, Etté following after.

“You’re from somewhere else?” I questioned while I looked around his room.

“Yes,” Etté answered, “I come from the nation of “The Darklands”. The name doesn’t sound pretty, but trust me, The Darklands is a beautiful place with its red sunsets.”

“I read in a guidebook that every nation and/or region has its ruler? Like..” I am at a loss for words.

“Yes, every nation/region has its rulers. The Darklands ruler is the Ikkyū of Time. He is a powerful dragon that controls time and can destroy 3 regions all at once. Currently, he is somewhere and I haven’t been keeping up with the news of The Darklands.”

I thought for a moment, processing all his words and information.

“He is quite powerful, I would say.” I said.

Etté nodded and smiled.

“I know very well about the ruler. I could tell some history and facts about him~” Etté said.

“Oh?” I was now curious, “Enlightened me then.”

Etté went over to the edge of his bed and sat down and spoke.

“The Ikkyū had a lover, the Hachikyū of Fate. He fell in love with him at first sight.” He began.

“Love at first sight..” I muttered.

“Indeed. They first met when the Hachikyū were dancing in the Yuksa Garden. Ikkyū watched him while he was sipping tea. Eventually, the two got to know each other, and soon enough, the Hachikyū loved him back.”

“What happened next?” I asked.

Etté was silent for a moment and finally he spoke up.

“The Catastrophe came and someone killed the Hachikyū.”

There was silence in the room.

“Oh my..” I said. “That’s..sad.”

Etté looked down. He looked at the window.

“Want to watch the moon with me?”

Later on at night, I was standing in front of the mirror, taking off my purple pins. Just then, I felt cold hands around my waist.

“Heya..” Etté spoke. “You’re beautiful as always.” His left hand ran through my hand.

I melted under his touch, giving in. His hands felt so soft when he ran his hand through my hair. Etté started to rest his head on my shoulder. It was like that until I went to bed and laid down. He plopped down beside me and held me closer to his face and started to kiss and nibble on my neck. His dark scales tail pulled my waist closer.

I tried so hard not to softly moan against his touch. Etté’s tongue licked my neck then at my lips.

“You tease..!” I whispered.

Etté rolled his eyes and bit my neck. Then, he got on top of me and straddled me so I wouldn't escape. He captured my lips in a passionate kiss, while his dragon tail swayed side to side. Etté pinned my arms above my head. I tried to move my arms but he added his dragon tail to my arms.

“You..” I muttered.

Etté smirked and started leaving marks on my neck.

After like an hour, he kissed my forehead and laid beside me, releasing my arms.

“Good night, Ky- I mean..Kūkyo.” He whispered to me.

“Good night.” I nodded and fell asleep.

Etté wrapped his tail around my waist and pulled me in closer to his chest where I could hear his heart beating.

Meanwhile..

The Lotus guard stammered.

“I’m sorry my lady!”

Meiling stood up from her throne and kicked the guard.

“Pathetic. Can't even find him.”

She sighed and crossed her arms.

“Once I find him, I will kill him on the spot alongside his lover.”

“I won’t let this happen again.”

Chapter Text

I woke up with my head on Etté’s chest, hearing his heartbeat. My breath hitched which made him wake up. He groggily mumbled something and sat up. My face was turning red as a chill.

“Morning, Kūkyo.” Etté said in his raspy voice,

I nodded in response. Something about his eyes felt familiar to me, but I can’t quite recall what. I got up and splashed water on my face while Etté rolled down to the floor, revealing his back to me. Etté finally sat up and looked me in the eye.

“Did that journalist tell you about the elements?” He asked.
“Florette?” I quietly asked, then replied, “Nope, she didn’t.”
Etté just nodded and put his palm under his chin.
“Well, there are 7 elements: Soundwave, Shockwave, Lightwave, Flamewave, Surgewave, Freezewave and Windwave.” He paused then continued.

“Soundwaves are water.”
“Shockwaves are Thunder.”
“Lightwaves are ‘Light from the Sun’.”
“Flamewave is obviously, it’s fire.”
“Surgewaves are Plant/Tree”

I asked, “Surgewaves are the elements that Florette and Mr. Fei have?” Etté nodded. “I’m surprised you talked to Mr. Fei, we are friends. Just friends ok?”

Etté continued,
“Freezewaves are Ice,”
“And finally, Windwaves are Wind.”

He looked at me up and down with his half lidded eyes.

“You wield the element of Shockwave, thunder.” Etté stood up. “I have to go visit..a very special someone unfortunately. I’ll send out another tavern invitation for our next interaction.”

I nodded and walked out of the door, then out the entrance door. As I walked back to the GreenTea Bookstore, it was..

Locked.

Wow.

Just wow.

Florette wasn’t kidding when she said next time I won’t be so lucky.

— Meanwhile —

The door swung open as black boots clicked on the smooth floor of the office. The man entered with a confident smile on his face. Other people were seated down around the long white table, which looked easy to stain with blood. The man that had entered the room had white hair with his piercing red eyes that were red like ruby. The guy at the very end of the table looked up with no emotion on his face.

The man with white hair sat down and smirked at the others. The other people just glared or nodded at him. The guy at the end of the long table tapped his fingers on the white table. After a short silence, he spoke up.

“I assume why is everyone here?” The guy asked.

Everyone nodded. “Yes, boss.” The guy scanned the room and stood up. “For the new high-rank rookies, in case you have forgotten,” he raised his voice slightly,

“My name is Yinxing, the head of the D.I.C.E Mafia, AKA Dice Identity Card Elegance. My rules are very straightforward. First, don’t call me Yingying or yo-yo. Second and last of all, DON’T CALL ME AFTER 7PM!” Yinxing yelled so loud that almost everyone at the table flinched.
Yinxing cleared his throat.
“I won’t be repeating myself again. If you do ask, you’re fired.”

There was silence. Yinxing sighed.

“I called to hold this meeting about something important that caught my attention.”

The screen lit up behind him which showed the whole map of Florderisa. Yinxing typed in something and pressed enter. The screen showed crystals that were perfectly cut like a piece of cake slice. He zoomed into a green crystal and glazed at it. Yinxing spoke up after a 3 second silence.

“This is a Surge Crystal, a crystal wielded by the Rokkyū, Meiling herself. There are two things that caught my attention. Firstly, the crystal is powerful enough to brainwash the mind. Secondly, a Shockwave reading was sensed just yesterday, but that isn’t our concern for now.” Yinxing explained. “This isn’t a want, but a NEED.”
“The other crystals have other valuable qualities, like the Shock Crystal, which is wielded by the Hachikyū, Kykomi himself. Its power can change a whole story!” He exclaimed excitedly. Yinxing continued on.

“Unfortunately, the Shock Crystal was lost after Kykomi died.”

The people at the table groaned.

“But…” Yinxing said, “We could get the Flame Crystal.”

The man with white hair was twirling a dagger dangerously around his hand. He spoke up with confidence.

“Etté has it, doesn’t he? He’s so easy to outsmart and manipulate.” The man said.
“Did I ask you to speak, Xhi?” Yinxing raised his voice and glared.
“Sorry boss, I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings~” Xhi teased.

A girl that was shuffling cards very fast giggled, while the lady with black and white lipstick just hummed.

“Stop giggling Ni-ki, and please don’t bring cards to the meeting next time.” Yinxing harshly said.

— Florderisa, Lampshade Tavern —

Etté chugged down another gulp of wine as I watched him. I was surprised that he wasn’t drunk after 5 glasses.

“You know,” Etté started off, “There’s a prophecy that was made 2,000 years ago that something is going to happen with the Rokkyū.”
“Meiling?” I asked.
“Yes.” He said. “Goes like this..”

“You have no heart is already broken, but it shall be shattered into a million more pieces.”

I was stunned at this. “I read that in a book that if you stab Meiling in the right spot of her chest, she dies right?”
Etté nodded and smirked at me.
“Smart one are you?” He said with approval. “The bookstore has been doing their research very well, haven't they?” He finished drinking the wine. “I heard Avyia is the head researcher there, but doesn’t visit the bookstore in person. Weird isn’t it? Very well known in Florderisa, yet she barely touches grass.”

Etté ordered another drink to chug down.
“Up for another round?” He asks with smugness.

“Sure. But get me non-alcoholic drinks please.” I sighed. “I can’t handle the strong wine unfortunately.”

I sipped the drink before setting it down.
“But back to the prophecy topic, what happens if someone stabs Meiling in the wrong area?”

Etté thought for a moment and replied, “Well, she’ll pass out for a long time. Probably around 3 hours? I think it took more than 3 hours. After all, Meiling is no longer human.

— At the same moment, at D.I.C.E, Yinxing’s office—

Yinxing was looking out the windows of his large office. He was standing there with elegance.

“Hello, Xhi” He greeted. Yinxing doesn’t even have to turn around at the door opening.
Xhi nodded and stopped in front of his desk, crossing his arms.
“Did you call me to relax here in your office?” Xhi asked.

“Please, sit down on the couch there.” Yinxing gestured his hand to the black couch.
“Wow,” Xhi plopped down to the couch. “Not even a bit of rainbows? Your office is just black and white. It’s like Bad Apple all over again. Nice painting over there,” Xhi compliments, “I can’t believe you named it Beast Beneath The Moonlight.”
“...” Yinxing agreed with a nod. “I didn’t call you here to relax here.” He walked toward Xhi and crossed his arms.

“Oh your knees.” He bluntly commanded.
“What-“ Xhi stammered.
“I SAID,”

ON

YOUR

KNEES.

Yinxing raised his voice at him. Xhi raised an eyebrow at him. His confidence started to slip away all because of three words,

And he liked that.

So he did. Xhi went to his knees and gazed up at Yinxing’s face, not tearing his ruby eyes at him. Yinxing smiled and put a chain leash around his neck, tightly. Xhi watched him out the chain around and tilted his head.
He felt a finger on his chin, lifting his head up. Yinxing tugged the chain which made Xhi jerked closer to him, making a small noise.

“What did you really call me for?” Xhi questioned him.
“Well,” Yinxing tugged the chain again which made Xhi whimpered softly. “Remember the meeting? I want you to get the Surge Crystal from Meiling, my little assassin.” Yinxing explained. “Hungry for power aren’t you?” Xhi teased like he always does to him.

Yinxing tugged the chain roughly making Xhi gasp for air. “I’m always hungry for you though.” Yinxing murmured as he leaned forward to Xhi.

— Lampshade Tavern —

The tavern was in chaos now. One moment it was peaceful, the next moment, Etté was unconscious and I was being taken away.
“No!” I cried out. My protests were faded by a sudden snake that entered my flesh.

“Shh…relax…..” The lady whispered and hissed at the same time in my ear. “Soon, I will have you begging for mercy.”

After a while, I woke up with a lady in front of me with a white kimono with green snake designs. The lady hissed softly and leaned on to my eye level.
“Good sleep?” She asks, “I hope you do because my venom is so addictive.” The lady chuckled and stood up, taking a few steps back. My eyes widened as I realized my hands were cuffed. I was now fully awake.

“Who are you?!” I yelled. The lady hissed at me with a glare. “I’m Meiling of course! The savior of Florderisa and the Rokkyū. Haven’t you heard about me?”

I rolled my eyes. “Sorry Meiling.” I said mockingly. “Why am I here?” I asked.
Meiling chuckled and hissed softly. “I brought you here for you to remember..a few things.”
I tilted my head. “What things? What are you talking about?” I questioned her as I narrowed my eyes. “You know you can stand up.” She gestured around the room. “You’re free to explore and look, but I cuffed your hands because I don’t want you to touch anything.”

I stood up rubbing my back, then I explored the room. The room had fancy artifacts and jewelry which doesn’t surprise me because she’s rich as heck. Then, I stopped at a glass case that was at the back. My eyes widened at what it was.

A pair of green dragon horns and a finger.

Meiling softly laughed, then walked towards me and leaned into my ear.

“That was Florderisa’s previous ruler, Lulong. He was kind, handsome, and cared about the Shokubutsu region a lot.” She paused. “After ‘The Catastrophe’ broke out, I took the opportunity to kill him..”

“What?! Are you crazy or what?” I yelled out. Meiling hissed and took a few steps back.
“I wanted what he had! The riches, the jewelry, and the authority he had! I wanted people to worship me!” She yelled out. “But why keep his dragon horns and a finger?” I asked.

“I took it as a token of victory.” Meiling said darkly.

I was in a state of horror right now. “You’re not working as the Rokkyū of Change..that’s straight up greed.” I softly mumbled. “You’re not wrong, my dear Kūkyo.” She mocked it with approval. “But now, I have everything I wanted. My people are so blind to see the truth, and I shall keep it that way with no change at all.”

I gulped. “What about the-“ My words were interrupted by a figure that broke down the door. The man with a black mask on his face, but he had white hair. He moved fastly and swiftly. Meiling didn’t have enough time to react to the situation. That’s when the sharp piercing dagger went through her stomach.

Her stomach glowed a bright green, showing now the Surge Crystal. The man took it and grunted. “My mission here is done.” He said. Suddenly, a girl ran through the broken door and gasped at the sight. The girl had black hair with a big red hatinator behind her. She also had red streaks on her bangs as she wore all red fancy attire.

The man disappeared in a blink of an eye. The girl looked at me as I turned my body towards her. “Who are you?” I questioned the girl.

She sighed and softly smiled. “Michikiko, conductor of the Ōkesutora.”

Chapter Text

Michikiko followed me to another tavern where Etté greeted us both. “My two best friends are back!!” He acknowledged us. Michikiko rolled her eyes and it was followed by her sigh. Etté pulled us in a tight group hug. “ETTÉ…I CAN’T BREATHE…” Michikiko managed to choke out.

I tried pushing him off but gave in after. Etté then let go of us and giggled. “Gang gang! We are back together again!” I crossed my arms. “Meiling got stabbed.” I nonchalantly said. “It wasn’t in the chest though, but someone cut the blade through her stomach.”

There was silence between us three.

“She’s not dead though.” Etté commented. “Meiling will eventually wake up and capture you again.” Michikiko just stayed silent and listened to the conversation.

I was deep in thought. Why did she kill the previous ruler of Florderisa? How did she obtain the Surge Crystal in the first place? I got so many questions, but I didn’t know where to start. It was killing me. “I need to retrieve something from Feilung.” Etté spoke up. Michikiko rolled her eyes. “The last time you spoke to her was a long time ago. Will she even recognize you?” She questioned. Etté just put on a smug smile while I was confused.

“Who??” I said. Michikiko chuckled. “Sorry, Kūkyo. I should have told you about our friend. Allow me to explain.” She cleared her throat. “Feilung is a white kitsune who is a wandering guardian with no home to begin with. She is part of the Guardians of Spirit and is the last of them currently.” Michikiko took a pause before continuing, “She guards the door of spirits with all her life. Try to get past her, and you’ll die instantly.”

Etté put a hand on his hip. “But I’m not trying to get past her to get to that stupid door. I’m only retrieving something from her.” He stated.

“Can I ask about Meiling? What was her past? Do you both know?” I wondered. Etté sighed and began,

“Well, before she became the ruler, she was an ordinary girl, doing her own thing. Meiling was just Meisha before it was long gone.”
He went on,
“Suddenly, a change happened within her. Meisha started to get greedy and greedier, until it consumed her mind and soul.”

Michikiko leaned on the tavern wall.
“It just started with tokens, then to power. Meisha’s parents tried to change her ways, but ended up being killed.” She stammered. “Meisha went on to assassinate Lulong, sadly obtaining victory. The young girl went on to change her name to Meiling, and erased all Florderisa's memories of the incident.” Michikiko ended.

“Oh my.” I was in shock. “This is why we should end her, once and for all.” Michikiko declared.
“Uhm- I still need to talk to Feilung.” Etté interrupted. Michikiko just nodded.

An hour later, Michikiko left to arrange our meeting with Feilung, leaving both of us alone in the Tavern. The tavern was quiet since we were at the back of the tavern. Etté had an idea and grinned at me. I tilted my head at him, but before I could even open my mouth, he started to drag me to the very back of the tavern where no one even cares to look.

“What..?! What are we doing…!” I asked with confusion, and anger that he started to drag me. Etté leaned in close to my face, while his hands wrapped around my waist. “Spare me 20 minutes with you. I need my fill with you.” Without wasting any time, his lips devoured mine. The sensation was too much for me to resist so I gave into him, letting him take control. His tongue demanded entrance, and I let him trespass. Etté’s tail wrapped around my hips as I put my arms over his shoulders.

Etté started to bite and leave wet trails on my neck. He tangled my hair with his fingers and tilted my head black, exposing more skin. “Tasty…I’m drunk on you more than the drinks.” Etté slurred. He went on gripping my left wrist, pinning it to the wall. “You’re so cute when you’re like this.”

Etté noticed the cuff marks lingering on my wrists. “Who did this to you..” He demanded. I started to sweat a little, and gulped. “M-Meiling.” I mumbled. “I’ll kill her when I get the chance!” He almost clenched.

— Meanwhile, —

The white foxian lady swirled her glass as she looked at Michikiko. She took a sip and set it down. The lady crossed one leg over to her other. Michikiko gulped and didn’t touch the glass of wine offered to her. Her hands were clenched together.

“Michi,” She started off. Michikiko couldn’t look at her gaze, so she stared at the ground. The foxian lady crossed her arms, “What brings you here.” She demanded. Michikiko’s hand trembled as she started to speak, “It’s Etté, he wants to retrieve the item, lady Feilung.” Feilung’s expression softened and nodded in understanding. “I know about the deal, relax peacock. You thought I would forget?” She let out a hum. Michikiko sighed in relief and looked at her. “I thought you would, but…I don’t understand why Etté needs it like- now. I didn't get it— why does-“ She stammered.

Feilung would put the glass of wine to her lips, then set it down on the stone table once more. “Young child, relax your body and mind. I’ll explain.”
“Well, as you know, Etté and I made a deal after “The Catastrophe”, he saw the future that someone would take all the crystals and use it for their own gain.” Feilung paused and went on, “He trusted in me as he had his other plans to look for, his reincarnated lover.” Feilung’s tail twitched. “I’m only telling you this because the deal between us is almost over, so it would be kinda pointless if I just told you after the deal.” She chuckled.

Michikiko took a sip of the wine and gulped it even though she hated it. She couldn’t refuse the kind lady’s offer afterall

“By the way, Michikiko…”

Michikiko tilted her head. “Yes, Lady Feilung?”
“Do you know someone by the name of….”

“Yinxing?”

Michikiko’s lips parted as it let out a gasp. Her eyes widened in shock as she looked at Feilung.

“That’s my childhood friend!”

— Somewhere in Florderisa —

Florette took a few more shots from her camera as Mr. Fei tried to jump off a cliff. “You know,” Mr. Fei started off, “We shouldn’t have left Kūkyo.” Florette groaned. “Let him be depressed. He was a thorn on our side. Plus, the Lotus Guild will catch him.”

Mr. Fei let out a ‘tch’. “We shouldn’t have switched sides all of a sudden. You know I hate working with Meiling!”
“Your ex-wife? Wow.” She took another photo. “What do you think Kūkyo is doing right now?” Mr. Fei asked. Florette shrugged, “How am I supposed to know that? The GreenTea Bookstore would leave him to rot! He is our enemy!!” She yelled.

— ??? —

“Please…! Stop this toture…” Yinxing let out a cry of pain as he was thrown again. “I don’t wanna hurt her!” He exclaimed.

“YOU GET THE CRYSTAL ALONG WITH THE FLAME ONE! I DON’T CARE!”

Yinxing tried to speak, but he was already bleeding so much that he couldn’t stand anymore. “I….hate you father.” He says as he passes out.

“I regret having a disgraceful son like you. You should have been killed already, but your mother has other plans with you. I’m very thankful she died years ago.”

…

…

…

…

…

…

…

— Starry Skies —

…

“I wonder what the starry skies will bring…” Kauke says he watches EVERYTHING unfold before him.

“Kūkyo, The Celestials have their trust in you, especially Shiiji.” He says as he looks down at Florderisa.

“The prophecy by the Nikkyū says that the ruler’s heart shall be shattered in a million more pieces. I’m happy about that because I want to kill her.”

“But that’s for another story in Chōseki.”

Chapter Text

Yinxing groaned and threw Xhi. 

“I HATE THIS!!”

 Xhi tilted his head. 

 “Why, bro? You ok? You look like you stayed up all night.” He chuckled. Yinxing wasn’t amused at all. His eye twitched, a sign that he didn’t sleep. “I did. I stayed up. Wanna know why? BECAUSE I CAN’T LOCATE THAT STUPID SHOCK CRYSTAL!” 

Xhi was trying to maintain a calm expression on his face, but it was failing so badly, to the point where his hands started to tremble so badly.

 “I….I’ll take my leave.” Xhi got up and dashed out of the door immediately. Yinxing banged his fist on the desk and made a huge crack.

 “I shouldn’t have stayed up.” He sighed as he slumped down on the soft sofa. Yinxing laid down and didn’t realize that he drifted off to sleep.

Xhi, meanwhile, was just twirling his daggers. “Heh, boss can’t handle the wine I gave him.” He continued to talk to himself as he drank the “coconut milk.”

…

“Kūkyo! Michi gave us news that we should go up in the mountains.” Etté shaked my body. 

“Hiking? Really?” I complained, but I knew that I had no choice because of this guy dragging me. Etté grabbed my hair and started to drag me, while I shrieked out in pain. 

“You’re insufferable, Etté.” I said to him, but Etté just shrugged. 

Up on the mountain top, Etté purposely dropped me. 

“Oopsies.” He mocked. Michikiko gave Etté a disapproving glare. “Be careful of him. He’s fragile as a flower.” She warned. I gave a thumbs up even though I’m on the ground. Feilung was amused at this moment.

I stood up, brushing off the dirt. Feilung crossed her arms.

 “I’ve been waiting for your arrival.” She spoke. “Hello.” I greeted her. 

Etté gave Feilung a cheeky smirk. 

“Can Kūkyo and I-“

 Feilung interrupted, “If you guys are doing it right in front of me, please do this in private.” She glared. 

His smile disappeared while I was just confused. Michikiko gestured to me to follow her as Etté and Feilung were doing their business. 

“So why am I tagging along?” I asked her. Michikiko crossed her arms and gazed at me. “Well, you’re getting a sword.”I just stared at her. 

“Well, it’s a lantern, but it transforms into a sword. I came up with the idea by the way.” She chuckled. I hummed in response, liking it. “I took inspiration from Kykomi, the Hachikyū, before he died.” Michikiko explained. 

“That's cool!” I acknowledged.

Feilung gave Etté the Flame Crystal. 

“Our contract is complete.” Feiling gave him the crystal, Etté held out his hand and absorbed it. Etté nodded with thanks. Feilung gave out a purple butterfly looking sword. 

“You’re an idiot, you know that?” 

Etté just chuckled. “So? I was always one.” 

There was silence between the two. Feilung nodded and walked off, before disappearing in the red mists. 

Etté threw the butterfly sword to me at intense speed, but thanks to my quick reflexes, I quickly caught it. “Are you testing me?” I questioned him. Michikiko had an amused expression on her face.  “Maybe, or maybe not.” Etté grinned. I examined the butterfly sword, it had purple butterfly designs and some purple looking kind of glass.

 “Just throw it in the air, so it turns into a lantern.” Michikiko impatiently said. Etté took it from me and demonstrated. He tossed it in the air, and it didn’t take a long time for it to turn into a lantern.

“Impressive.” I reacted to the sword transformation. I caught the lantern just in time before it hit the ground. I lit up the lantern with my shockwave energy, creating a purple flame.

 “It looks beautiful.” I smiled.

 “Not as beautiful as you~” Etté flirted. 

Michikiko just facepalm. “When are you going to stop teasing and flirting with him..” She muttered to herself.

“Heh, I can infuse this sword with my shockwave energy now!” I laughed. Michikiko nodded. 

“What about the plan to stop Meiling?” She asked Etté. 

Etté thought for a moment, then snapped his fingers, which meant he had a plan. 

“How about this— I will be the bait for us to get in?” He suggested. Michikiko put a hand on her hip. “How would that work?” She asked. 

I would listen in. Etté grinned. “Well, I can knock out the guards on the way, so you guys have a clear path!” He explained the idea. I would agree with him. Michikiko scoffed. “You think better than me.” 

I would softly laugh at Michikiko’s remark. “Then,” Etté would continue on, 

“We go barge in that throne room and slice her off-“ 

“NO!” Michikiko exclaimed. “Not like that! I like the first part of the plan, but barging in the throne room without coming up with a strategy is making you an idiot!” 

I scratched my head.

 “Well, I can’t think of any ideas except exposing her.” 

Michikiko sighed. “We’ll continue making our plan tomorrow.” She facepalm. “What I need is a break from this whole idiocy from Etté.” With that, Michikiko scoffed and walked off to think alone from a distance. Etté looked at me.

“What is she exaggerating about?” 

I shrugged at him.

 “Having a headache?” I remarked.

 “Probably with me, though. I cooked her an egg salad with no tomatoes, which made her angry.” He randomly said.

At night, the mountain top was the perfect place to gaze up at the stars. 

Michikiko looked at them in her own silent solitude, leaving us. 

Etté laid down beside me and let out a soft sigh. He was too close to me that our hands brushed just the slightest bit. 

 The red blush was slowly creeping on me. The stars would shine bright like diamonds. 

“You know,” Etté started off, “there is always someone watching over Euithiyum.” 

I raised my eyebrow, curiosity invading my brain like always. 

“We call him ‘Lumawig’, he is a wind spirit and so called ‘scriptwriter’. But someone else took his place.” 

He laughed at the last part he said.

 “He was part of the Kyū Order. Holding the Jukkyū rank.” 

I hummed, I really liked hearing these kinds of stories. 

“Isn’t there like, two splits of the at rank you mentioned? Jikkyu?” Ettē nodded in response to my question. 

“Yes, there’s both the Jikkyū and the Jukkyū.” He explained. “Lumawig held the Jukkyū rank, before becoming a wind spirit ‘scriptwriter’.” 

I didn’t realize that his hand was intertwined with mine. 

“Scriptwriters..like are they helpers of a higher rank?” I questioned. Etté shook his head a no. 

“No, not really. Lumawig doesn’t like helping nor being a helper. The Celestials, though, gave him permission to see and write out the script.”

He scratched his head. Celestials? I swear I heard that word before.

“Celestials…?” I scolded myself in my head because I was asking so many questions.

Etté chuckled at my expression. 

“Asking so much?” He teased me. “It’s fine, I like yapping to you.” I cleared my throat nervously.

“The Celestials are the cosmic beings that created the Wave Crystals, the ones every Kyū Order member has.” Etté started to explain. 

“They’re also the ones who established the Kyū Order.” 

I gasped in awe. “That’s cool.” I softly said. 

Etté nodded. 

“One of the Kyū Order members is one of the Celestials, known for ascension. Shiiji, or we can just call him Shiju, is that celestial.” He chuckled before sighing.

“The Order hasn’t heard from him ever since “The Catastrophe”, which is concerning. He last set foot on Choséki, the Nation of Soundwaves.” I shuffled closer to Etté on the grass, listening to him yap and explain.

 “As for Lumawig, I don’t know what happened to him, but he definitely changed his name into something else.” I hummed. “I wonder what happened.” I wondered. Etté shrugged, then he pulled me closer, which made me let out a surprised yelp.

We both gazed at the stars, enjoying the warmth of each other. Michikiko had her arms crossed. She softened her expression and slightly smiled. I started to doze off on Etté. He noticed this and chuckled.

“Dozing off? I thought you weren’t tired.”

I softly glared. “Shut up.” I said, rolling my eyes.

The corners of Etté’s lips curled up into a smile. I closed my eyes, can’t handle the tiredness anymore. Etté started to sing a lullaby that was somewhat familiar. 

Michikiko’s ears perked up and glanced over to us with somewhat a shock expression on her face. She was surprised to hear Etté sing after a long time. Michikiko’s expression turned from shock, to a smile on her face. 

“He sure misses singing to his lover.” She muttered to herself smiling. She sighed and watched over us from a distance.

…

Etté’s hand reached out to caress my hair. He looks at my face lingering longer than he should be. Etté pressed his forehead against mine, his body shuffling on the grass ground of the mountains.

…

“Sleep little butterfly, let your wings rest on my scales. The dragon will protect your fragile body against all evil. Let all your worries out to me and I will comfort all your screams. My wings will cover you from the world, while I wipe the tears away.”

———————————————————————————

Kauke from a far distance would watch it all happening. He would smile at the lullaby. Soon after, he would turn around, disappearing in the mists, only leaving these words,

“The dragon shall find its mate after a long separation. From then onwards, they will not lose each other once again.”

Chapter Text

I have seen countless people die in “The Catastrophe”. An event that awoke the Forbidden Voices, hungry dead souls wanting to corrupt other people's bodies to make it their own. As an observer of this world, I keep watch and make sure that everything goes according to the script. 

But this butterfly….seems to change the whole story of the script.

One thousand years after “The Catastrophe”, Kūkyo woke up in the region of Shokubutsu, on the sands of Modori Shore, absolutely remembering nothing. He stumbled upon the city of Florderisa, which was ruled over by Meiling, who people claimed as their “saviour”. Along the way, he met people like Florette, and Mr. Fei from the GreenTea Bookstore.

But most importantly out of all, Etté, a wandering dragon who he somehow recognizes. 

After a while of hanging around, Florette suddenly told Kūkyo to run for some reason. It turned out the Lotus Guards under Meiling were after him. The reason for this is because Meiling executed the shockwave people a long time ago, and they aren’t welcome to Florderisa. Thankfully, Etté dragged Kūkyo away.

The next morning, Etté told him about the 7 elements of the Waves (will be explained later), Powers that resonate within the person. At the same time, Yinxing, introduced as the boss of D.I.C.E (Death Identity Card Elegance) Mafia headquarters. He wanted to make a plan to collect the Wave Crystals, powerful objects that are wielded by the rulers (Kyū Order). 

One normal day in Florderisa, Etté and Kūkyo were drinking in the Lampshade Tavern. Etté talked about a prophecy about Meiling (“Your heart is already shattered, but it will shatter into a million more pieces”), and told Kūkyo not to trust her. Out of nowhere, Kūkyo gets taken away by Meiling herself, while Etté is unconscious. Kūkyo learns that Meiling killed off the previous ruler, Lulong, and erased all history from that incident. Yinxing sent out Xhi to capture the (Surge) crystal of Meiling, and successfully claimed it, also stabbing Meiling in the stomach in the process. Then, Kūkyo was saved by Michikiko, who introduced herself as the conductor of the Ōkesutora.

Later on, at the tavern, Etté was happy to see Kūkyo safe. Etté sent out Michikiko to rescue him (because he was still drunk). Kūkyo was just confused by all this. Michikiko explained Meiling’s past, a girl who was consumed by greed and wanted more than money. Etté said that he needed to see Feilung, a wandering kitsune who was a part of the Guardians of Spirits.

Up on the mountain tops, Etté and Feiling completed their contract. Feilung gave the (Flame) crystal to him, and Kūkyo’s weapon, which Michikiko said that it was inspired by the Hachikyū, Kykomi, before he died. Plus, the weapon was her whole idea.

That was part one up to seven. 

Now let me tell you about Ruler, the Waves, the Wave Crystals and all that.

The Catastrophe 

First off, “The Catastrophe” was an outbreak for the Forbidden Voices (will be explain later). This event caused the Kyū Order to be included in this disaster. Unfortunately, “The Catastrophe” took many lives of people, including some of the members of the Kyū Order.

Rulers

What are the Rulers exactly? The Rulers- Tch, I’m tired of saying rulers over and over. Let’s get straight to the point. The Rulers are part of this group called the Kyū Order.

Kyū Order

The Kyū Order are people who control different parts of the world of Euithiyum, each having a different type of the path traits they chose while also assigned a rank. For example, Meiling is the Rokkyū rank and is the Rokkyū of Change.

Here is the complete order of the Kyū Order,

Ikkyū - Bakunawa (alive)

Nikkyū - Miwa Amane (Alive)

Sankyū - ??

Yonkyū - ??

Gokyū - ??

Rokkyū - Meiling (alive)

Nanakyū - ??

Hachikyū - Kykomi (dead)

Kyukyū - ??

Jikkyū - Shiju (alive) 

Others come and go, while some were banished or punished by The Celestials. Some may have replaced the old.

Former Jukkyū - Lumawig

Banished — Mukyū - Lady Rikona

Punished — Jun’ikkyū - Flameris

Punished — Junnikyū - Pryonox 

Hakkyū - unknown for now

What are the Waves? Waves that merged with elements that were formed by The Celestials hands.

Soundwaves are water

Shockwaves are Thunder

Lightwaves are Lights from the Sun

Flamewaves are Fire

Surgewaves are Plant

Freezewaves are Ice

Windwaves are Wind.

The Wave crystals are some extracts from The Celestials powers. Each of the crystals were given to the Kyū Order.

Sound Crystal - Creates powerful water flows and tsunamis

Shock Crystal - Control the thunderstorms

Light Crystal - Creates light in the darkest of shadows

Flame Crystal - Can stop time

Surge Crystal - Power to erase history and memories 

Freeze Crystal - Preserves memories 

Wind Crystal - Wind storms

Moving on to organizations.

So, what are the Forbidden Voices? Well, it will be mentioned in later chapters a lot. The Forbidden voices were sealed thousands of years before “The Catastrophe” broke out. They somehow broke themselves out, the reason is unknown. These voices can corrupt the minds of a person, whispering words that make the person doubt. Once they succeed in doing that, they will use their body and make a twisted version of themselves. 

D.I.C.E (A.K.A Death Identity Card Elegance) is a mafia organization, the head being Yinxing. They are a bunch of psychos who want to put Euithiyum in chaos and ruin. Others also want world domination, while others want chaos that will never end. But their main mission is to eliminate every member of the Kyū Order, one by one.

I won’t say much about the GreenTea Bookstore. It’s a group of poets, writers, and artists who unleash their creativity and passion for writing or creating. They’ve been famous in Florderisa for a long time.

Now, the Ōkesutora was only mentioned when Kūkyo met Michikiko. A group of people who use their voices and instruments to banish the evil spirits from the nation of music (Ongaku). The true conductor of the Ōkesutora is Miwa Amane, the Nikkyū. Wait..could it be that Michikiko’s is- #### #####? 

Watching over the skies will forever remain my duty. Well, I think this is a perfect time for me to reveal who has been talking and yapping all this information.

I am the former Jukkyū, Lumawig, who is now a scriptwriter of Euithiyum. But I prefer if you call me,

Kauke.

Yes, this story is all written by me. But Fate himself has changed the whole storyline. I must say, it’s amusing how much power he has over me. Hah. Yes, I’m a wind spirit by the way, be mindful of that. Well, I guess my time is almost up for me. Keep this our little secret, will you? I promise to appear in later nations and chapters. 

But for now, let the story continue.

Chapter Text

Michikiko slapped me awake early in the morning. “Wake up, idiot. We have to check something.” I grumbled and got up. Etté just smirked at this. “Can you stick out your tongue?” He asks. “Huh?” I was confused, why should I stick out my tongue? I stuck my tongue out not knowing there was a strange symbol. “Yep, it’s right there.” Etté grinned at Michikiko, she just frowned. 

“Out of all the areas you could put that mark there, you chose the tongue?! How stupid you are!” She shouted then glared at Etté. He fought back another smirk. I tilted my head. “What?” Early in the morning, my head is spinning with questions, a lot of them. “Allow me to explain.” Etté had a cheeky grin. I was mentally preparing myself to listen to his yap.

“Remember our first meeting at the Lampshade Tavern? Well, when I kissed you, I had placed a mark on you.” He started off. “On your tongue, that symbol is another part of your element, Shockwave.” Etté put his hand on his hip, which annoyed Michikiko for some reason. “Like the elements of Euithiyum, there’s another thing that is connected to them. Not just the elements themselves, but The Celestials also.”

Michikiko scoffed when Etté said The Celestials, like it’s a joke to her. “How?” I questioned. Etté continued on, “There’s a thing we call “Trails”. It’s basically like a trail for a specific trait of the Kyū Order, like Time or Prophecy.” I tried to process all this, but my brain just stopped working. “That symbol on your tongue is Fate, so indicating you follow the Trail of Fate.” He explained. I started to get dizzy.

“Tell ya what, I’ll continue yapping about this when we’re alone.” Etté smiled at me. I just nodded and tried to regain my composure. Michikiko just huffed at Etté yapping essays. 

“Seriously, if the Jukkyū was still here, he wouldn’t handle all this.” She said with a glare. “Awh, why the face, Michi?~ Are you just jealous of us interacting like lovers? We are anyway.” Etté teased her, while Michikiko was getting annoyed by his words with every counting second.

“I told you already, I have a lover already.” She scoffed. “Who’s the lucky one..?~” Etté teased. Michikiko glared and walked off. “None of your business.” She muttered.

During the afternoon, we regrouped again for the plan. “Hey, so,” I started off, “Can we like, not kill Meiling? I feel like killing her off is a bit too..brutal, you know?” I nervously said. Etté sighed and nodded his head in agreement. “The butterfly is right, Michikiko.” Etté crossed his arms. Michikiko thought for a moment before heavily sighing. “Fine, fine, maybe I’m too violent.” She admitted. “Let’s change things up then.”

“So, Etté will be bait to the Lotus Guards, taking him to the throne room where Meiling is. He will clear out the halls filled with guards, letting Kūkyo and I in.” Michikiko explained the plan. I raised my eyebrow. “So what are we going to do with Meiling?” I asked. Etté smirked for the billionth time. “We’re taking your suggestion into exposing her.” He laughed.

“There’s a celebration in a few days. It’s an anniversary celebration when Meiling became ruler.” She huffed. Michikiko went on, “All of Florderisa will be attending this celebration, which gives us an opportunity to expose her to the past that’s been hidden and buried for so long.”

Etté stretched his back, letting his wings spread for a moment before folding them back. “We’re going to expose to the people what happened to  the former ruler, Lulong, and show them she’s evil all this time!” He exclaimed with madness. Michikiko was not amused at him. 

“So is my role…exposing her?” I questioned. Michikiko placed a hand on her hip. “Make it into a dramatic drama. Afterall, people love stories from the past, no?” I smiled at this. “Then I’ll make sure to make it more dramatic!” Etté started laughing. “You know, if Kykomi was still here, we would all be laughing at his funny stories.” He said with nostalgia. Michikiko sighed, then offered tea to me. “Kūkyo, have some tea I made.” I accepted it and took a sip.

The taste reminded me of something. Like..I made it. Nevermind, it's probably my imagination.

— 1,000 years ago —

Bakunawa's tears fell down from his chin to Kykomi’s forehead. “Please..wake up…” He desperately sobbed. “This is..just a nightmare..right?” He questioned, but only silence answered. “DAMN YOU MEILING!” Bakunawa cursed.

 Bakunawa looked up at the red skies as Miwa Amane held the Shock Crystal. “I think…there’s a possibility that Kykomi will reincarnate.” She softly spoke up. “The prophecy has responded to Kykomi’s fate.” Miwa Amane glanced at him, then back to the Shock Crystal.

Reborn smaller, but more stronger than ever.

Miwa Amane took out another crystal. It looked like the Yin and Yang symbol. “Yinxing successfully created the Taijitu Crystal using one of the Forbidden Voices, Yinyanggong.” She explained. Bakunawa narrowed his eyes on this. “What should we do with it? What about the Shock Crystal?” Miwa questioned.

“Seal it away from Yinxing.” Bakunawa sighed as he caressed Kykomi’s cheek as he lay dead. “Protect it from him at all cost. NEVER let him take it.” He spoke softly. “As for the Shock Crystal, Lumawig will place it in the reincarnation.” 

Miwa Amane nodded. “Understood.” She took off, leaving the Shock Crystal with Bakunawa. When Miwa left, Lumawig appeared. His golden wings spread out as he gracefully landed. “I eavesdropped on the conversation.” Lumawig said with a cheeky grin. “Please,” Bakunawa warned, “don’t do that next time.” He glared. Lumawig chuckled, amused. “No promises~” Bakunawa groaned in defeat.

“Back to the topic at hand though, you want me to place the Shock Crystal in Kykomi’s reincarnation?” Lumawig asked. Bakunawa nodded, a sign for yes. “Ok~ and then I’ll toss him to the Lian Ocean.” This made Bakunawa groan again. “Yeah, do whatever you want.” He grumbled.

Lumawig chuckled. “By the way, I’ll be going to Choséki for my successor to take my place as the Jukkyū, or should I say— Jikkyū.” He smirked. Bakunawa lifted up Kykomi’s corpse and kissed his forehead, then looked back at Lumawig. “You’re…becoming the new Scriptwriter..right?” He asked. Lumawig nodded. “You might forget why I left.” He teased Bakunawa.

“He will.” Miwa Amane appeared again, her arms crossed. “According to the prophecy, he’ll forget why you left, Lumawig.” It sounded like she was snitching. Lumawig smiled at this. “Oh, it’s been my pleasure being in the Kyū Order. I must say, I’ll still be eavesdropping on your conversations, just a heads up for you both.” Miwa and Bakunawa groaned in despair. 

“Please tell me if there’s a prophecy that Lumawig will stop eavesdropping…” She whined. “Please,” Lumawig started off, “I have a bad habit, you know that hurts my feelings if I don’t eavesdrop.” 

“By the way, I took a peek at the script. Changed things up a bit for Meiling’s future, so if you noticed any changes happen by who knows how many years later, just remember it was me.” He told them both.

 Lumawig took some steps towards Kykomi’s corpse, and took the Shock Crystal. “Have a nice long slumber.” He said as he placed the Shock Crystal somewhere in the chest, which formed a lavender light.

“Don’t worry, Bakunawa, you’ll reunite with him soon enough.”

Chapter Text

At the hotel, Etté’s place, I was being cuddled by him, while Michikiko was brushing her peacock tail. “Why not take a group photo?~” Etté suggested and took out his phone. I tilted my head. “Hey uh- am I old?” I asked. Michikiko stopped brushing and nodded. “You are, but I can’t guarantee the answer to your exact age though.” She bluntly answered. 

“How long have I been asleep for?” I scratched my head. Michikiko pondered about my question before answering, “For exactly 1,700 years.” She replied. Etté softly chuckled. “Yeah, technology advances as time goes on. Actually, I got a gift for you, my lovely Kūkyo.” He smirked and the corners of my lips turned into a smile. Michikiko sighed and put her head on her peacock tail.

Etté took out a dark purple phone case with a butterfly symbol on it, decorated with light purple butterflies at the corners of the phone case. He also took out a phone that looked brand new. “Here,” Etté held it out, waiting for me to take it. “It’s yours now, and I already registered your account on it.” He smiled. “Thank you.” I said. Michikiko raised her head and closed her eyes, softening her expression, while listening to our conversation.

I opened up the phone. “What’s my password?” I questioned. “0304.” Michikiko replied. I nodded and pressed on the numbers, unlocking the phone. “You can call me, message me, send stickers to me, but you can also fu-“ Etté’s blabbering was interrupted by Michikiko putting her hand over his mouth, muffing the last thing Etté said. I giggled at the sight of his shocked expression. Etté narrowed his eyes at her as Michikiko retreated her hand.

Etté sighed before having an idea popping up in his mind. “We should have a group chat!! Everyone, opened up Chords.” I looked at the screen before finding the Chords app. “Wait, I have my account on this already??” I said with surprise. “Yeah, you already have Michikiko and my account. Everyone has this app, and it has the coolest features.” He rambled on, while Michikiko softly clicked on the screen keyboard texting Etté to just make the group chat. Etté stopped rambling to look at Michikiko’s message before glaring again at her.

Etté’s glaring expression quickly disappeared. He clicked on a few buttons here and there on the screen before I immediately got an invitation for a group chat called “Triple Baka”. Michikiko looked at the screen in disbelief, her eyes widening. “Why did I let you choose the group chat name…?” She muttered to herself before joining, followed by me joining also. 

IgnisDraconis: WHAT’S UP GANG!!

MichiMochi: Ok.

I assumed that these were their usernames. I typed in a few words.

Beautifly: Poteto.

MichiMochi: Was that a reference?

Etté laughed. “We should get some sleep. We’ll be going to that nice tailor shop for the celebration thing.” He suggested. Michikiko nodded and stood up. “We all will be getting masquerade costumes of our style, but in Florderisa’s culture.” Michikiko stated. “Have a good night you two, I’ll be in my own room now.” She said as she walked. Michikiko closed the door, leaving us alone. I noticed Etté’s hand was under my shirt. “Hey, I’m not ready for that stage yet.” I whispered to him. His hand retreated, leaving a chilly feeling. 

“I understand. I shouldn’t press you on yet. Look, I’m always here if you're ready.” Etté smiled at me. I smiled back also, then a thought came into my mind. “I’m still curious about The Celestials.” I put my hand under my chin. “Can you explain more about them, please?” I asked. “Oh, right, I still owe an explanation to you about the Trails connection to them.”

 He crossed his legs. “Like I said before, they are comics beings that created Euithiyum, the Kyū Order, Wave Crystals, and Trails, which in another word, are also called Threads.” He continued on, “The Kyū Order was established by the Flame-Chaser, one of the Celestials.” I listened to his explanation. “You mentioned one of the members of the Kyū Order being a Celestial?” I mentioned. Etté nodded. “Yes, Shiju. The Celestial of Ascension. The Celestials also have unlike human forms, like a dragon or a giant sand cat.” 

Etté paused. “Not a lot of people have seen Shiju’s real form. Which makes him mysterious.” He thought before he shook his head. “Well, you can ask me more about them later. But for now, I need some rest.” He yawned followed by my yawns. I nodded in agreement. “Yeah, I need some beauty sleep.” I lay down on the bed getting comfy, then Etté’s dragon tail wrapped around my waist and pulled me closer. “Good night.” He smiled. “Good night, Etté.” 

 I felt his forehead against mine, feeling the warmth. His red eyes gazed at me for a moment, making me blush a little bit, before he closed his eyes. 

As I dreamed, I heard a voice calling to me. “Hey…? Can you hear me?” It asked. I opened my eyes to find myself in front of a beautiful fountain, with the surroundings being so unfamiliar. “I’ve been waiting for you.” The voice suddenly spoke up behind me. I quickly turned around to find a guy who was about my height. He had light blue hair with golden accessories. I noticed he also had golden wings. “Hello, Kūkyo.” He smiled. “How do you know my name?” I asked. “Well, I’ve been watching you for a long time.” He said as he walked around the fountain.

 “Welcome to the Script’s Dream.” He giggled. It took me a few moments to realize that the guy who was standing right in front of me was Lumawig. “You’re Lumawig, the former Jikkyū, aren’t you?” I questioned the young boy. “Please, call me Kauke,” Kauke introduced himself. “I prefer that name.” Kauke touched the fountain waters. “How long have you been watching me?” I was on guard of him. Kauke giggled again. “Oh, long enough to witness the moments between you and Etté…very interesting with the way with both you guys lips and-“ My face was flushed with red. “Enough, I got it.” I cleared my throat in an awkward manner.

“This is where your journey will take you next.” He said sitting down on the edge of the fountain structure. I sat down beside him, the sounds of the water flowing as they came down. 

“The nation of Soundwaves, Choséki is pretty known for their tailor shops and fancy clothing. A lot of artists around Euithiyum gather there to exchange and share their paintings.” He explained. “But it’s also the center nation of Euithiyum, so there’s a lot of train transportation if you ever want to go to another nation.” He chuckled.

 “Well, what do you know about me?” I softly asked. Kauke put a hand under his chin and looked at me, analyzing me. “You’re special is what. You changed the whole script once you woke up.” Kauke spoke up. “We’ll be meeting often like this.” He giggled again. 

“Well, I have to ask another question.” I stated. Kauke nodded. “Why the heck did you leave the Kyū Order? I know you were chosen to become the next scriptwriter, but why leave the Order?” Kauke laughed at my question like it was a joke. “Well, the Windwave Crystal was too hard for me to handle and it kept blowing me away.” He answered, “So when I had the opportunity to become the next scriptwriter, I immediately accepted.” 

I listened in. “When I left the Kyū Order, I left my successor in my place to become the Jikkyū.” 

I was going to ask about the Wind Crystal, but Kauke placed a finger on my lip. “I knew you’d be asking about the Crystal.” He lifted his finger. “I hid the Windwave Crystal because it was too powerful for me to handle like I said. As for my successor, he chose to wield the Soundwave Crystal.” 

He started to go onto the topic of his successor. “At the time, not a lot of members joined the Kyū Order, which was perfect for me and also my successor.” I nodded. It was for a good reason, I guess. “You’ll be meeting him soon enough.” Kauke tapped his chin with his finger. I looked at his eyes, beautiful like the rippling water, under the evening. He looks so young, yet his words tell me stories from hundreds of years ago. 

“Hey.” I suddenly said, breaking the silence. “How’s my friends to you in your eyes?” I simply questioned. Kauke thought for a moment, stopping his tap. 

“Well, Michikiko in my eyes is just a girl who’s finding her soprano voice.” He arched his back. “Yet, her real form is like a koi fish color.” He says. Koi fish color? I thought of red and white, but also possibly orange.

 “Well, she isn’t a koi fish though, but I wish she was.” He chuckled. It would be funny imagining Michikiko’s real form and the koi fish color scheme. Kauke would then go on, “Etté is like a dragon finding its mate, which he is right now.” 

I would nod at his words. Etté is a dragon because of his scaly tail and his wings.

“His prophecy is pretty happy unlike the others, The dragon shall find its mate after a long separation. From then onwards, they will not lose each other once again.”

I hummed at the prophecy. “What about Michikiko’s?” I asked once more.

“Hm…I think it goes like..Fight with your voice, and this is what it sounds like.”

Kauke replied. I was going to ask another question, but the surroundings were getting darker by the second.

“It looks like Time is short. Keep this between us, ok?” Kauke pleaded. I widen my eyes. “But- when will I be sure we’ll meet again? I have many questions!” I exclaimed. Kauke softly smiled. “The day will come when the script tells me to. You have an important role to play, and so do I.” 

I tried to process his words, but I just sighed, and nodded. “You have my word, Kauke.” 

We both nodded at each other, before I found myself in Etté’s arms.

So, my dear reader, enjoying my story so far? Please, 5 stars!! Relax, it’s just me, Kauke, the scriptwriter who told you the recap? Hehe, well, just a heads up that Prologue is almost over, but that’s not the end of Kūkyo’s journey. You think this is the end? Well, I said Prologue.

The first act is Choséki, the Nation of Soundwaves, basically meaning nation of waters. They’re known for being the center of Euithiyum, fast train transportation and having the advanced technology in all of Euithiyum. Looks like the Nation of Freezewaves and Soundwaves have competition when it comes to technology. 

Followed by the second act, Ongaku, the Nation of Music. Why isn’t there a specific Wave element, you ask? Well, this nation is unique from other nations and regions. Almost every region and nation is associated with a Wave element, but Ongaku doesn’t seem to be associated with any Wave elements as their main trait of the nation. 

But The Conductor, Miwa Amane, has hid away a Wave Crystal that shouldn’t exist in the first place. 

Just a huge crumb that Miwa Amane will reveal herself once the Crystal has come to light. 

But most importantly…in both Choséki and Ongaku…

D.I.C.E will make both appearances in both nations, and the Forbidden Voices will appear more frequently.

Well, we’ll leave it up to the fragile butterfly, let the story be played out. Yeah, bye bye, reader, until next time.

Chapter Text

The tailor shop was big, but had a small number of people. The music was soft and calming, making the atmosphere feel at ease. Michikiko was browsing the clothes for the celebration, while Etté and I were examining the designs that were to our taste. 

“Hey, do you like this?” He held up a white suit that looked extremely basic. 

I shook my head and Etté groaned. Michikiko looked over, sighing as she saw Etté’s expression. I went over to the section with fancy headpieces until I accidentally bumped into someone. 

“Sorry, my fault.” I apologized. The person who I bumped into had blonde hair who had a sun headpiece and foxian ears. 

“Watch where you’re going.” She grumbled under her breath and glared at me, then walked away. I brushed it off and shrugged. I went back to Etté and Michikiko to the dress and suits section. Etté beamed when he saw me, and almost pounced at me. I flinched at his sudden embrace. 

“I can’t last five seconds without you.” He mumbled. 

Michikiko’s eye lingered on the young lady for a moment before looking away, like she recognized her, but kept quiet. 

Michikiko groaned. 

“Let’s come back here sometime soon. I can’t find anything good.” She complained. Etté scratched his head nervously and nodded. I acknowledged her disappointment with a thumbs up. 

“Sure, it’s getting boring here anyways.” I spoke up. Later on, we were at the tavern. Food like fried fish and tomatoes were served along with drinks like ice tea. Etté’s mouth was drooling at the sight of it.

“So…tasty….” He muttered. “But not as tasty as Kūkyo’s lips.” He grinned at me. I was flustered at his comment and nervously cleared my throat.

“We’re in public here, Etté.” Michikiko glared. “You guys can go freaky when you both are alone and somewhere private.” She scoffed. I giggled. We all ate the food and drank with delight while we chatted. It felt so nice being together as a group. Etté making jokes, Michikiko making silly comments once in a while, while I talk about stories I read in the GreenTea Bookstore. We were all having a good time…

Until…

A woman sat beside me who didn’t even ask us. “My my, what a fine man~” She complimented me. I tilted my head in confusion. “I’m sorry, what?” I didn’t know what was going on. The woman had a black peplum dress which made me uncomfortable in all ways inside. Etté glared at the woman while Michikiko looked like she was awaiting orders from Etté.

 “Can I get your number, cutie?” She asked me. I raised an eyebrow by her question. We literally just met, and now she wants my number? What business does she have with me?!

I shifted away from her, clearly uncomfortable. Etté clenched his wrists, but he knew he shouldn’t interfere just yet. He needed to wait until the Time was right. Michikiko had a calm expression, like the ocean was suddenly still. I couldn’t help but feel something off about her body language. I was about to speak until…

“Oras!” 

Etté shouted.

Suddenly, the people in the tavern space stopped moving, all in one place. I looked around and noticed that I wasn’t frozen in time, along with Michikiko and Etté. The woman who was close to me, though, wasn’t frozen in time, which surprised me. “What the..?! Etté…?” I quietly said to him. Etté smiled at him before turning serious to the woman. Michikiko was sipping on her ice tea. Why wasn’t I surprised?

“So, we meet again, Esme of the Forbidden Voices.” He smirked. Michikiko suddenly flipped the table and kicked it aside with her legs, then she used the power of Flamewaves to make flame ropes. Esme struggled to free herself from the flamewave ropes. 

“How fast you are, Etté.” She glared and looked at Michikiko. “Cute, you brought a friend~ but she’s weak.” 

Michikiko scoffed. “Don’t underestimate me.” She warned as she held out her hands to tighten the ropes.

“WHAT THE HECK IS GOING ON?!” I yelled. Etté laughed and wiped a tear away. “Allow me to introduce this lady.” He grinned.

“This is Esme, one of the Forbidden Voices inside Meiling’s head. Apparently, she was the one who corrupted Meiling’s mind to become greedy.“ Etté explained. “Unfortunately, the Meiling in the past is long gone now, and everything about her past is buried very deep.”

He sighed. “It’s too late now unfortunately. Once the soul, heart, and mind have been corrupted, they aren’t the same person anymore.”

“Therefore, they must be killed.”

Michikiko sipped her tea with her right arm. “Since this is Meiling’s forbidden voice, Esme’s level of threat is level 5.” She cleared her throat. “Whoa..” I blinked twice.

Esme broke free of the flame ropes. “Just let me steal this guy and I’ll spare you!” She glared. I was basically backed into the tavern wall where I sat. Esme charged towards Michikiko, but before she could, Michikiko held out her left hand and held out a talisman seal, which was infused with Flamewave. 

“Not your day, today, and also not the time to fight here.” Then, Michikiko felt a sharp pain in her chest. “Agh..!” She almost lost balance trying to seal Esme.

I gasped and quickly took out my sword. Michikiko lost control and Esme strangled her to the floor.

 “How pathetic.” Esme hissed while Michikiko struggled to break free. “Why did the conductor of Ongaku fail to get her voice back?” She taunted Michikiko. Michikiko groaned. “Let go..!”

Esme’s face started to show black marks on her forehead and cheeks, demonic eyes replaced instead of human ones.

Etté and I saw an opening to her back to strike in. I nodded at him and he nodded back. Etté and I aimed for Esme’s back and successfully stabbed her, my purple butterfly sword now drenched in black liquid. I cringed at the sight of the liquid and winced.

Esme shrieked and Michikiko saw an opportunity to seal her. She quickly pulled out her Flamewave talisman and successfully sealed Esme, her shrieks fading.

“Well done.” Etté said and wiped the black liquid off his cheek. “Also, nice sword skills.” He complimented me. My heart fluttered with his nice voice. He sounded so handsome..!

Michikiko sat up and groaned.

 “I think I got sauce on the back of my hair.” She complained. Etté and I giggled. “We’ll be going back to the Under The Umbrella hotel.” I said. “That hotel feels like home~ I might just book a permanent room for all of us!” He giggled, while Michikiko tried to wipe off the sauce. “Seriously? No! A permanent hotel room costs like what? $56.00 dollars PER PERSON!” She hissed. Michikiko got up and flipped the table again, the food all dirty.

Etté snapped his fingers, the tavern unfrozen as people chatted like nothing happened before. The good news is, the black liquid from Esme was gone. The bad news is…

“NOOO! OUR FOOD!!” Etté dramatically whined. “It’s all dirty…!” He pouted. Michikiko faceplam. “It’s just food.” She scoffed. 

I chuckled at the sight. “Michikiko is right, it’s just food.”

Later at the Under The Umbrella hotel…

Michikiko was in her own hotel room while Etté and I got some alone time. I whimpered as Etté bit on my skin. “Not too loud…” Etté whispered. I had so many questions to ask, but I wanted to savour this moment with him. Late at night, Etté wrapped both his arms and dragon tail around my waist tightly, but not tight enough to hurt. “Kūkyo?” He says my name. I let out a hum that I was listening to him. “You’re warm…please don’t leave me.” He mumbled.

I sighed and leaned my head against his chest. “I won’t.”

….

…

The starry skies were beautiful as always. On the roof of the Under The Umbrella hotel stood Kauke. 

He looks up at the starry sky and still asks himself…

“Why the heck am I still single.”

…

…

…

…

…

…

The only sounds in Michikiko’s room were the fingers gliding across her phone keyboard. She was in her most comfortable position with her most comfortable navy blue pajamas.

MichiMochi: Just don’t scare the fragile butterfly, Zepar.

Zep_67: You’re mean.

MichiMochi: You’re meaner.

Zep_67: You’re the meanest >:(

MichiMochi: Atleast I’m not mean like Bubatis, hahah..

Zep_67: SHUT UP!

MichiMochi: SAYS THE ONE WHO PUT “SIX SEVEN” IN A USERNAME.

Zep_67: NOTHING IS WRONG WITH MY USERNAME!!!!

Will this banter ever end? 

Chapter Text

This morning was a pain, I hated it. Waking up so early for the celebration was horrible. I  rather wake up at three in the morning than wake up at nine in the morning. 

“Stop complaining and get ready. I already got the outfits.” Michikiko spoke. Etté was wearing a ouija fashion style outfit. A black outfit with a fancy red blazer cape around his shoulder and collar. 

“What do ya think?~” He smirked.

“Horrible.” Michikiko bluntly said. 

Etté gasped dramatically and put a hand on his chest. “HOW DARE YOU THINK THIS OUTFIT IS HORRIBLE!”

I giggled at Etté’s expression. Michikiko rolled her eyes and crossed her arms. “I was joking.” She scoffed. Michikiko wore a black jumpsuit with a light white shawl covering her shoulders. She also put on a black arm sleeves on both sides, the white marks that design music notes.

 “Whatcha think you guys?” Michikiko asks. 

I beamed at her outfit. “SO COOL!” I complimented her. I really loved the music notes design on the arm sleeve. Etté smirks at my outfit. 

I was wearing something similar to Etté, but more black ruffles on the inside sleeve. The blazer cape was purple, matching my purple hair dye on the ends of my hair. 

“So are we walking to the celebration?” I asked.

“Nah, we teleport in front of the palace.” Etté stated. With a snap of his fingers, the three of us were in front of a big fancy pagoda. “Meiling has always had an eye for elegance.” Michikiko admitted bluntly. “Four out of ten.” She added.

 “Why is that?” I questioned while I was admiring the design. 

“Well, I like the golden snake design on the pathway, but the building itself is trash.” Michikiko huffed. “She could have made all her walls black. It looks ugly with white.” 

“Opinion is an opinion!” Etté spoke with joy for some reason.

 “Well now, let’s go inside, shall we?” He smiles. We all went inside the pagoda, which was filled with a lot of people. 

“Whoa…” I was amazed at the sight. “It’s bigger than I thought it would be.” My mouth dropped. 

Michikiko had her arms crossed and nodded in agreement with my statement. I noticed that Etté was missing. 

“Hey, where is he?” I asked Michikiko. She rolled her eyes at me.

“Don’t you remember the plan? He quickly left us to beat up all the guards so that you would explain the tale without the Lotus Guild bothering us.” She explained. 

 I nodded and gave a thumbs up. “Thanks for the reminder.” I smiled while Michikiko just nodded.

 “No problem, Kūkyo.”

We both walked around eyeing the food. “Looks so unappetizing.” Michikiko criticized. I looked around and noticed every person except us looked hypnotized with golden eyes with snake sharp pupils. I looked to my left and saw Florette and Mr. Fei, but they also had golden snake-like eyes.

 “Michikiko?” I spoke to her. Her ears perked up when I called out her name.

 “I’m listening.” Michikiko nodded. A soft look in her eyes, in a calming way.

“Every person in this room…why are their eyes golden…?” I asked.

Michikiko’s eyes widened at my words. Her eyes narrowed as she examined the room. “Bad timing, Meiling put a hypnosis on them.” She spoke with alertness. 

“But why not us…?” She mumbled under her breath. I took a sip of the drink, testing it, but quickly spat it out. 

Meanwhile

Etté knocked out the last Lotus guard with a single strike of his fist. He wiped the blood off his cheek. Etté then grabbed a bottle of alcohol labeled Rising Red Enjoyment which was from the Interstellar Port. Etté chugged it down like it was nothing but water, and didn’t even care that the liquid was dropping from his chin to his clothes. 

“This tastes like hot water with pomegranate juice.” Etté scoffed. 

A woman stepped out from the shadows and threw a few gold daggers at him. Etté swiftly caught one, while the other daggers missed him by an inch. 

“That was lame.” Etté groaned. “You’re no fun, Meiling.” He glared. 

Meiling scoffed at him. “You’re not proud of my accomplishments after I tried courting you?” She crossed her arms.

Etté threw the bottle away in a random direction behind him, which made the bottle break into thousands of pieces. 

“I told you this a thousand years ago, I’m not interested in you!” He fumed. “Not even my interests changed after what you did to him.” Etté hissed at Meiling. 

“I loved him like he was the most precious treasure in all of Euithiyum…”

“WHY DID YOU KILL HIM AWAY LINE HE WAS NOTHING?!” Etté demanded. His tears started to form and watered down his cheeks to his chin.

Meiling narrowed her eyes at his words, uncrossing her arms and taking a few steps towards him. “I wanted more.” She smiled wickedly. Etté took a few steps back before pulling out his scythe, pointing towards Meiling like she was a dangerous animal, and she was. 

“I can never forgive you for what you did, Meiling.” His voice trembled. “I hope you die a painful death.” Etté cursed. “If Duke Demonous was here, I would kindly order him to execute you.” Etté wiped his tears.

Meiling raised her left eyebrow. She smiled, then bursted out laughing. 

“Zepar?” She managed to call out his name while laughing. “He’s too soft even though he has a scary appearance.” Meiling mocked. 

Her words made Etté’s expression clenched. Does she dare to talk bad about her other colleagues? Indeed, she dared. Meiling disappeared in an instant in a blink, which made Etté confused. He looked around the hallway, trying to find Meiling, but he found nothing. “What a difficult snake.” 

Back in the celebration hall, Michikiko quickly threw her food in the trash. “I don’t like it.” She bluntly stated. Our phones rang with a notification, so we both quickly took it out.

IgnisDraconis: I cleared out the hallway to the back of the room. It’s all clear.

I typed out..

Beautifly: Alrightly.  

MichiMochi: You said last week you were going to change your username -_-

IgnisEtt3: Is this good?

MichiMochi: ye.

Both Michikiko and I sneaked across the crowd until we reached a vent.

“You go in first, I need to make sure that no Lotus guards will come to get us.” She said to me, I nodded at her and quickly pulled out the vent door. Then I went into the vents like a sneaky kid. Michikiko closed the vent door as soon as I went in, then she went back to the drink area. I reached the hallway where Etté was and threw myself out of the vent, feeling the cold air around the hall. 

“There you are, Kūkyo.” Etté smiled at me. “Come on, we gotta get ready for the story.” He gestured to me to follow to an area that was behind the banquet stage. 

“Well, how do you know?” I asked. Etté grinned at me.

“Well, the prophecy takes place in front of everyone, the stage.” He explained. “My prediction was maybe Meiling had to leave suddenly because of her stupid speech of how she saved Florderisa from Lulong.” Etté giggled. 

I couldn’t help but think how warm his hands are now, compared to other days where his hands are cold. My cheeks flush up a bit of red on my face.

“Ok, here we are!” Etté stopped in front of the chandelier. 

“The vent you took is an upstairs hallway..haha. It should be easy for you to project the story up in a chandelier, right?” He teased me. 

I gulped at his words while I looked at the chandelier. I suddenly felt a sense of fear, what if I fall? What if it suddenly crashed down? I was thinking of the worst scenarios in this situation. Etté wrapped his arm around my shoulders and gave me a warm expression, which gave me butterflies in my stomach. “It will be ok, I’ll be watching over you.” He softly whispered. 

“Please do.” I whispered back. Etté pressed his forehead against mine, and then tenderly kissed my lips. His lips felt like..alcohol? What the heck was he drinking while he was knocking out the Lotus guards? Etté pulled back from the kiss and then kissed my forehead. “When Michikiko shuts all the lights, that’s your cue to go on the chandelier.” He explained the plan.

“But what about you?” I asked him. Etté just smiled. “Don’t worry about me.” 

At the drink area

Michikiko clicked on her phone with the contact of Zep_67.

Zep_67: Code for lights is 78880

MichiMochi: Thanks, and sorry for disturbing you.

Zep_67: It’s ok.

Michikiko suddenly felt someone’s hand on her shoulder, so she quickly turned around.

 “Zepar, you-“ She almost freaked out. Zepar smiled at her softly.

 “I don’t have much time, but let’s meet up at the train station, Kay?” Zepar whispered as quiet as a mouse. Michikiko nodded, and with that, Zepar disappeared. Was this a Kyū Order thing?

Meanwhile, Etté gracefully put me on the chandelier. To be honest, it was a nice view, but it was shaky.

 “Ever heard of Duke Demonus?” Etté randomly asked me. 

“No.” I replied. “Who is this Duke you speak off?” I asked Etté, watching his every move. Etté's tail swished before he put his hand to his chin. 

“Nevermind.” He said. Nevermind? That pissed me off, but it was just a question, not too deep I guess. Suddenly, out of nowhere, Meiling appeared behind me, sitting with her legs crossed. 

“I’m afraid that “story” you’re going to tell is in my way~” Meiling smirked at me. Etté glared at her and quickly took her off the chandelier by using his wings, pinning her to the wall. Unfortunately for me, I quickly fell forward. I was about to crash into the floor, but thankfully Michikiko was right there to catch me.

 “Careful, Kūkyo.” She said with her blunt reply. I nodded in thanks to her. 

Etté had a scowl on his face, eyeing Meiling as she smirked.

 “Go on! Kill me!” She dared. But that was not the way the prophecy goes. 

But Etté didn’t kill her. Instead, he backed off and disappeared. But why would he do that? That question was stuck in his head. Perhaps there was a line changed in the script at the last minute. Meiling hissed at him and quickly jumped down in the front stage, her anger quickly turning into a smile with confidence. 

The audience, still in the daze, oblivious to what’s going on due to the hypnosis Meiling had on them, turned to face her with eagerness.

“Ladies and gentlemen who are here today, thank you for coming here for this grand celebration.” She began. Michikiko and I quickly went up to the front. 

“Is it too late?” I whispered to her while Meiling was speaking. Michikiko shook her head. “Nope.” She glared at Meiling. “Since the light plan was a bust, we’ll wait for Etté’s signal for him to turn it off.” Michikiko explained. “The lights don't even have a switch and it needs a code for it to turn off. I sent Etté the code already for him to turn it off.” Her face transitions from a glare to a soft expression to me. 

“Once Etté turns off the lights, the spotlight will be on you.” Michikiko reminded me. I nodded in confirmation. 

“Alright.” I thanked her. Michikiko nodded in response. Meiling continued on, “We are thankful that we are free from Lulong’s control and attempt to change the rules of Florderisa.” She raised her wine cup. “A toast of another year free!” She yelled happily. The audience raised their wine glasses with smiles that looked like fools, and cheered. They slowly gulped down the wine like poison.

Etté meanwhile, upstairs typed a code box to a small vault. 

“How sneaky she was. No wonder she liked me. I wonder if she stole these sneaky habits from me.” He said under his breath. “Eh, good thing I rejected her.” Etté turned off the lights. The lights turned off. The problem was…there was no spotlight. 

“Uh oh.”

Good news is, the audience snapped out of the hypnosis for some reason. Bad news was that Etté couldn’t turn back on the lights. I made a small orb of Shockwave energy and tossed it to the chandelier, which sprinkled into the air. The orb turned into small waves until it unraveled into a green figure, Lulong. I began, 

“Once upon a time, there was a kind loving man who conquered this very land from the evil of this region.” I spoke in a dramatic tone, like I was reading out a fairytale.

 “Lulong was a harmless snake who always resolved conflicts within Florderisa without using violent tactics.” Michikiko backed me up. The green figure would show Lulong crouching down to a few groups of kids who were fighting, seeming like he was patient with them. Meiling eyes widened, horror struck her like lightning.

 “NO!”

“But unfortunately, kind rulers don’t last forever.” I said in a somber tone. Lulong’s green figure would be him speaking in front of everyone, until he was killed by a blade that sliced his chest. He fell to the ground, and behind him was Meiling’s orb figure, who had the Surgewave crystal in her hand. Meiling couldn’t do anything, she just stood there, watching as the truth came to light. 

“Greed took over someone and decided to hide the truth, but also obtain victory by slicing a finger.” Michikiko continues.

 “This venomous snake somehow gained the Rokkyū rank, but you all know this quote: The truth will always come to light.” I ended the story, the orb illusion faded. Meiling went on her knees, her eyes were wide like she had seen a ghost. No words were spoken from her. The audience were in shock and murmured words to each other. Michikiko and I sighed in relief, then Etté appeared beside me, clapping. “You sounded nice! Michikiko too.” He smiled. 

Suddenly, a man dressed in black clothing yelled at Meiling. “LIAR OF FLORDERISA!” The man had an angry look, which looked like he was about to explode. The audience followed after with angry expressions, shouts and even tears. Florette had it all written down in her notebook. 

“Mr. Fei! We got some big big news to write!” She says happily. Mr. Fei just nodded at her. I looked back at Michikiko with curiosity in my eyes. “Michikiko? What happens now?” I asked. Michikiko pondered for a moment before sighing heavily. “Unfortunately, the hypothesis Meiling had on the audience had erased a large amount of people’s names. I doubt that Florette and Mr. Fei will even remember you.” She explained with a somber expression.

Suddenly, the same person who had black clothing with a black mask on appeared behind Meiling. The audience paused to see what would happen. Well, what happens next….

The black figure stabbed Meiling through her chest, golden blood spilling out of her mouth and chest. Etté, Michikiko, and I were too stunned to speak, seeing what happened to Meiling.

“Curse you…Bakunawa.” She mumbled before falling face flat on the floor, the golden liquid flowing. As she fell, the black figure threw the blade beside Meiling on the floor. Michikiko’s eyes widened, her mind flashing with memories from the past. 

“Xhi?” She murmured under her breath. The figure with black clothing held Michikiko’s gaze before disappearing without the audience noticing. The audience was too busy talking and seeing Meiling’s death. 

“We should go.” Etté grabbed my wrist, rushing out to the exit, Michikiko following afterwards. At the Under The Umbrella hotel, we were at Etté’s room for the night. 

“Meiling’s death was quite unexpected.” Michikiko said with amusement. Etté nodded, his arm around my shoulders. 

“Well, she got what she deserved. Karma got her I guess.” He whistled. “She killed Lulong in the chest too, so I wasn’t surprised when she got stabbed in the chest.” Etté shrugged. I listened while scrolling on my phone, news blowing up about Meiling’s death with the actual footage on it. 

“She could have changed, but she didn’t.” I said as I put my phone away. Michikiko and Etté nodded in agreement. 

“Well Kūkyo, you’ll be voyaging and travelling with us for a while.” Etté grinned at me. Michikiko huffed at Etté’s statement. I smiled at Etté. “Cool! Maybe along the way, I could get my memory back.” I said with joy. There was a comforting atmosphere before Michikiko broke the silence.

 “So where are we going next, Etté?” She asked. Etté crossed her legs and smiled at her. “Next stop, we’ll be going to Choséki! The Nation of Soundwaves!” He exclaimed. “Choséki is known for highly advanced technology and transportation. They’re also quite known for their city being a whole underwater city!” Etté smirked. Michikiko raised her eyebrow.

 “Underwater?? Now that’s new. But how are we going to travel there?” She asked. Etté pulled out his phone and showed three tickets to a train called “Avy Railways”. He took a screenshot and sent it to the Triple Baka GC. “We’ll be going there by the Avy train taking us underwater.” He giggled.

I would see the message popping up on my phone. I sent a thumbs up emoji at it and smiled. 

Looks like this is our final night in Florderisa. What’s in store for me in the next nation?

One way to find out.

…

…

Michikiko was in her room preparing to go to sleep until she heard a buzzing sound on her phone. It was a call from an unknown caller, but Michikiko knew who it was, so she picked up. 
“Hello.” She greeted in a gentle manner. The other line was slient, until..

“Long time no see~” He purred. “I have news about that boyfriend of yours.” The caller chuckled. 

“Go on.” Michikiko sighed. 

“He’s dead and I killed him.”

There was an uncomfortable silence. 

“Xhi, I know it’s you.” Michikiko called him out. Xhi on the other line smirked even thought they were on the phone with each other. 

“You know how jealous I am with I see you with him…?” He quietly says through the phone. “I don’t like how he touches you, talk with you, smile with you.” Xhi hissed. “You deserve ME and only ME!” 

Xhi was about to ramble on, but before he could do that, Michikiko hanged up on him. “Eh, my current boyfriend was a jerk anyways.” She scoffed. “I’m glad Xhi killed him, he was cheating anyways.” Michikiko mumbled. 

“Should I get back at him..?”

Chapter Text

We left Florderisa in the evening, ready to set out. Surprisingly, guards would be outside and inside guarding the gates, but they were nowhere to be seen. Meiling’s death was a hot topic in the newspapers and online. The GreenTea Bookstore would be selling books as usual, but it didn’t feel the same anytime. I passed by, but Florette and Mr. Fei wouldn’t recognize my face. I would still remember the lantern when Etté and Feilung were talking. I wonder how Feilung was doing now, did she hear the news? Well, maybe a visit wouldn’t hurt once in a while. Before we left Florderisa’s gates, we signed out of the Under The Umbrella hotel room. Honestly, the hotel was really comfortable for sleeping and all that.

Etté led the way to a far station called “Vemon Plains”. It was pretty big, with white walls and golden ornaments that hung. Michikiko scoffed at the designs and looked away. It was like she despised Florderisa so much that she could throw a million tomatoes at the nation if she had the opportunity to do it. I looked down at the train railways of Vemon Plains, the railways definitely had war.

 “Florderisa was such a disappointment…am I right?” Etté spoke up. We didn’t answer his question. For me it felt like nothing was coming into my mind, I still had memories to find. Michikiko’s expression was either disappointment or hatred. Honestly, I don’t know what’s up with her and Meiling’s relationship. 

“So, who is this train conductor you’re talking about, Michikiko?” Etté asked her. 

“Avyia of Avy Railways. I booked us some rooms on the special train car. Luxury size.” Michikiko bluntly said.

“You’re kidding.” I was in shock  as my jaw widened.

“Nope.” 

Etté looked like he was a kid at a candy store. 

Suddenly, without warning, an Amtrak train dashed into the train tunnel at lightning speed, which caught us all off guard. Michikiko’s hat almost flew away, but thankfully she caught it. The train stopped and not long after, a girl who had white hair with light blue eyes came out of the train. She had white long boots that went up to her knees and long white bunny ears that drooped from the side of her hair. Wait, is she a bunny or a puppy? I couldn’t tell, so maybe I’ll ask her afterwards.

 “Welcome to Avy Railways, your train conductor to Choséki.” The person greeted us. “I’m Avyia, the head of the train company and your personal train conductor for every nation.” Avyia smiled, then held out her hand to us. Michikiko quickly pulled her hand to her forehead, was this some kind of joke? 

“Oh right, Kūkyo, this is a cousin of mine.” Michikiko said to me. Etté did the same thing that  Michikiko did and grinned.

 “She’s not related to me but we’re from the same nation.” Etté explained. 

I nervously put her hand toward my forehead. To my surprise, her hand was soft as snow. Avyia quickly retreated her hand away. 

“Booked for two?” Avyia asked Etté. Etté nodded. 

“Yes, just me and my boyfriend~” 

Avyia raised an eyebrow. 

“What about Michikiko?”

Michikiko sighed and crossed her arms.

 “The rooms were taken when I was booking it unfortunately. I have to share it with someone else.” She said with a sorrowful tone. I was sad at this news from Michikiko, but it is what it is. Etté’s grin faded and nodded. 

“Well, see you after the ride?” He whispered.

“Yeah, ignat.” Michikiko bowed down slightly to us, then went on the train car.

Avyia clapped her hands in front of our faces. I didn’t realize how short she was until she was close to us. 

“One question, Avyia.” I looked at her. “Are you a bunny by any chance?” I questioned.

“I’m a pup.” Avyia sighed. 

Etté laughed at the sight. I can tell he was amused at this situation since I couldn’t tell if Avyia was a pup or a bunny. Avyia looked so young, but was she older than Etté and Michikiko? Maybe I shouldn’t ask that question.

“What are you waiting for? Get in!” She scoffed impatiently. Etté dragged me and I started to whine to get off me. 

“Ow! That hurts ya know!”

“Don’t care.” Etté smirked.

Etté and I stopped in front of a door that had a bunny holding up a reservation sign. We both entered the room for the night to come. We were welcomed with a soft bunk bed and a nice window for views. 

“So soft!” I said as I felt the mattress. It felt like I was in the clouds right now. I knew that Etté wouldn’t want to sleep in a separate bed since he’s always clinging to me like his life depended on me.

Etté wrapped his arms around my waist pulling me close until he licked his lips and started to shower my neck with wet kisses. I had to bite my moan back, only letting out a small grunt. 

“No need to hold back~” Etté whispered in my ear before biting down on my skin, but not enough to hurt. I let out a small moan and I quickly shot him a small glare.

“You tease.” I huffed. Etté only chuckled before continuing to make love bites and kisses. 

“I love you, Kūkyo.” He mumbles against my neck.

Meanwhile with Michikiko, she opened her door only to find someone unexpected she hadn’t seen for a long time.

“Xhi…?”

Xhi sat on the bed, twirling his glass of wine smirking at Michikiko. 

“Long time no see, love~” He greeted with mockery and a little bit of happiness. 

“We’re exes.” Michikiko glared at him. Great, she has to deal with him for the night. Not too bad right? 

Wrong. Michikiko was glaring daggers at Xhi, not forgetting what happened between them. 

“I still hate you.” Michikiko bluntly blurted. Xhi only smirked wider, his amusement growing. He set his glass on the bedside table before approaching her. To his surprise, Michikiko didn’t move or flinch at all. Xhi’s crimson red eyes held her gaze, like daggers ready to slice through her neck, the blood ready to spill over like a waterfall. 

“I still remember your glaring face at me, love.”

“Shut up.” Michikiko grumbled.

“Grumpy hm? I crave that fire of yours.” He teased Michikiko. They both never left their gaze. 

“So, you still have that black necklace.” Xhi reminded her as he raised his left hand to feel the black necklace. The black necklace of Michikiko’s neck was a bunny symbol with a red wine design in the middle of the bunny icon. Beside the bunny icon was a wine glass that didn’t look important. 

“But you forgot something this necklace can do.” He laughed.

“What do you mean?” Michikiko asks.

“This.”

Xhi twirled the wine glass icon in a fancy way until he pulled it tight when the necklace choked Michikiko. He backed Michikiko into a corner and whispered in her ear,

“I didn’t tell you it was a choker necklace.” He said in a dangerous tone. Michikiko struggled to form words, helplessly trying to tug the necklace, but that only tightened it more. After what felt like eternity, Xhi let go of the necklace and Michikiko catches her breath. 

“You…” Michikiko averted her gaze. Xhi smirked and chuckled. 

“This is what happens for being a bad girl for leaving me you know.” Xhi whispered into her ear, not backing off. 

“Say, let’s team up shall we? We’re both here for the prophecy anyways.” Finishing his words, he gave Michikiko some space. 

“Huh? What does the Choséki prophecy have to do with you here?” Michikiko asks, her curiosity sparked in her brain. Xhi crossed his arms and pondered.

“Well, an important crystal to say the least.” He responded. 

Michikiko narrowed her eyes, like she was examining a book cover. Then her mind came to the prophecy she was here for.

The serpent shall face a painful death by the Jikkyū.

Well that was straight forward.

Xhi was still in his own thoughts, so Michikiko tried looking for his prophecy using her Shockwave element.

“Huh.” She mumbled.

You will be against your cards, and return to the one who yearned for.

To Michikiko, she didn’t understand Xhi’s prophecy. Maybe she’ll wait for it to be revealed. For now, Michikiko has to deal with him. 

“Deal, let’s team up.” She says to Xhi. Xhi smirked and uncrossed his arms.

“But you better not touch me in any way.” She warned. Michikiko sighed.

“I still hate you.” She scoffs.

“I hate you too~” Xhi smirked.

Just then, the PA system would spark up with Avyia’s voice. 

“Welcome to Avy Railways, Euithiyum’s number one train transportation around! Please get comfortable in your rooms and relax. Our destination to Choséki will be 24 hours, and also feel free to take pictures of the views outside your window. Now with that out of the way, the train will depart.” With that, the train started to move after the announcement from Avyia. This will be a long ride for sure. 

During the ride, waiters would check up on us to serve our meals for the ride. I would beam at the sight of the meal, while Etté would slowly munch on the dessert first. I wondered what was happening with Michikiko, she did say she would have to share with another person and I was curious who it was. But I pushed that thought aside and focused on my chats with Etté. 

“You’re seriously eating blueberry pie first?” I asked. Etté just shrugged and smirked with the blueberry mush into his mouth. 

“I’ll eat you up after.” He teases. His words made me heat up a little bit. 

“Attention passengers!” Avyia’s voice came into the PA system. “We are entering the deep waters of the Lian Ocean! Feel free to take pictures of the fish and coral reefs.” She says excitedly. 

“Choséki is an underwater city?” I asked Etté.

“Yes, you’re correct. Choséki was built by the Jukkyū thousands of years ago. The Jukkyū formed a transparent bubble that allows Choséki to be walked on, while also having the ability to see the beautiful seas, if you know what I mean.” He explained. “I wonder how the Jikkyū are doing right now. He’s the youngest member of the Kyū Order.” Etté smiled.

The train went into the Lian Ocean creating a big splash in the waters. We were met by blue nothing to blue fishes.

“AWHHH!!” I gushed at the cute little fishes. “THEY ARE SOOOO CUTE!!!” I yelled, having my face near the window while Etté laughed.

“What do you want me to do? Conquer the ocean?” He joked.

“Unfortunately not since I don’t have the Soundwave Crystal.” Etté mumbled under his breath. 

Michikiko stood nonchalantly, staring at the window. 

“Are you here for the Soundwave Crystal?” Michikiko interrogated. 

Xhi shook his head.

“This ain’t my job this time. That’s Yinxing’s business now.” He sighed, crossing his arms.

Michikiko tensed as she heard Yinxing’s name being called out of his mouth.

“Yinxing?” 

“I heard he was your childhood friend.”

“Correct.” Michikiko averted her gaze.

“Until he made a crystal that’s forbidden in this world.” Michikiko huffed. “He created the Taijitu   

 Crystal using the Forbidden Voices.” 

Xhi lifted her chin using his finger. 

“Look at me.” He softly said. 

Michikiko’s breath hitched, trying so hard to lift her head up. She can’t, she just can’t bring herself to look at him when he’s still soft with her. The only sounds in the room were Michikiko and Xhi’s soft breathing like quiet leaves swaying side by side. 

“That’s an order, Michikiko.” Xhi’s tone was stern. “Or do you want me to choke you again?” He warned as he twirled the wine icon on the black chain choker necklace.

“Wait- please no.” Michikiko immediately looked up at his face. 

Xhi’s eyes were crimson red. The last time she saw those eyes, they were lighter, what happened to him? 

“Your eyes.” She peeped. 

Xhi’s gaze softened. This was quite rare for him to look a little bit affectionate. 

“Yeah, I know.” He leaned in closer. “I promise I won’t be harsh on you, unless you misbehave.” Xhi grinned.

“You’re treating me like I’m some kind of pet.” She hesitated.

“Was I? Sorry I-” He trailed off. “I…nevermind. Can we forget this and admire the fish?” Xhi asked.

Michikiko only nodded as she turned her head back at the window.

For a moment in the room, Xhi looked at Michikiko with a slight hint of yearning. Even after all these years, he still thought of her being in his arms, sprinkling flowers on Michikiko’s face as a joke. 

“If loving you was a sin, I’d gladly become a sinner.” 

While Etté was looking out the train window, I gulped down the last piece of my chicken, then sat on the bed for the night reading the Painted With The Stars book. Honestly, I almost forgot it ever since Florette gave it to me. I looked at the author's name…

Willow Fyersa.

Simple but detailed. I turned the cover to the first page and started reading.

Have you heard of The Stage? They’re a group of people who have monitored Euithiyum ever since the beginning of its creation. When The Celestials avert their gaze on Euithiyum, The Stage steps in.

The Director, Silvertine, who makes sure everything goes smoothly.

The Scriptwriter, Lumawig, the one who writes the script, bringing the world to life.

The Artist, Citrine, who paints Euithiyum in place.

The Musician (also known as The Composer), Fermata, who holds the melodies of this world. 

These people are important with Euithiyum, but—

The words were blurry. Huh, that’s strange. I closed up the book and put it away on a table. Well, I can focus on that later. For now, I can’t wait to get to Choséki.

Kauke had his arms crossed while he was standing infront of a big celestial being.

”Cloud-Piercer, why must we wake up the Leviathan?” He asked.

There was no answer.

”Lumawig, give HER a rest, please and thank you.” Fermata says calmly as she descends down to the transparent form. 
“I must say, the butterfly is getting stronger, which means he’ll get his memory back sooner than HE expected.” Fermata caressed her hair.

”Is that so?” Kauke tilted his head at her. 
“What about the Levitation waking up? You telling me it’s a good or bad thing?”

Fermata got nervous all of a sudden.

”Well, looks like we have to intervene sooner or later.” She says.

Kauke nodded.

”Well, I’ll be in my way for my tea party gossip with The Director. See you later, Fermata.”

Fermata waved her hand at him. 

“Let’s just hope the Jikkyū makes his move.”