Prism Isekai - Tales of Atheria Chapter 5 - The Power of Music Moonlight Prism decide to keep adventuring to protect their newfound home from danger. ========================================================== ## Relationship Upgrading Dust motes danced in the golden light filtering through the dungeon exit. Hana, exhausted yet exhilarated, limped over to Shizuka, who was wiping the grime from her katana with practiced ease. "That last boss fight..." Hana huffed, sinking down onto a moss-covered rock. "Think I saw my life flash before my eyes about a dozen times." Shizuka chuckled, a rare sound in the damp dungeon air. "Yet you always manage to survive," she said, her voice low and melodic. Silence settled between them, a comfortable space they’d grown accustomed to over their shared adventures and the building of Melody Haven. But today, a different feeling bubbled in Hana’s chest, urging her to speak. Taking a deep breath, she said, "Shizuka, there's something... important I need to talk to you about." Shizuka raised an eyebrow, her gaze unwavering. Hana’s heart hammered against her ribs. "It's about..." Hana faltered, then forced herself to continue. "About us. I... I value you more than just a friend, Shizuka. I... I care for you deeply. And I was wondering..." Shizuka's expression remained unreadable, a wall guarding her emotions. Hana braced herself for rejection. "I was wondering if..." Hana blurted, her cheeks burning, "if you'd ever consider... something more?" The silence stretched, heavy with tension. Just when Hana thought she couldn't bear it anymore, Shizuka finally spoke. "Hana," she began, her voice soft, "this isn't the first time this has come up." Hana's jaw dropped. "What? First time?" Shizuka nodded, a hint of amusement flickering in her eyes. "Riko tried the same thing a few weeks back." Hana's face flushed crimson. "Riko?! But... but she never said anything!" "From what she told me, it sounded... temporary. A fling in this strange new world." Hana found her voice again, relief washing over her. "No, that's not what I want at all! I... I wouldn't even know where to begin with..." she trailed off, blushing further. Shizuka's amusement deepened. There was a childlike innocence about Hana, even after all they'd been through, that Shizuka found oddly endearing. "Hana," Shizuka said, her voice gentle, "you don't have to worry about... that part. It's not something I'm... familiar with either." Hana's surprised expression softened into understanding. "Then... what about my feelings? You know I care about you deeply. Like... like the bond I have with Riko," A flicker of a memory crossed Shizuka's face. Back on Earth, a memory of Hana's hesitant words, a confession that remained unanswered. Now, here in Atheria, the world felt less rigid, the rules less defined. "Hana," Shizuka said, her voice barely a whisper, "back then... on Earth, I couldn't." A flicker of disappointment flitted across Hana's face, but Shizuka pressed on. "But here," she continued, her gaze locking with Hana's, "maybe... I can try." Hana's heart soared. This wasn't a complete yes, but it wasn't a no either. Maybe Shizuka, the stoic warrior, was willing to let someone in, to explore this uncharted territory with Hana by her side. ---- The crackling fire cast flickering shadows on the faces of the three women gathered in their shared living room. The usual playful banter was absent, replaced by a tense air of anticipation. Shizuka, her katana laid respectfully across her lap, cleared her throat. "Hana, Riko," she began, her voice firm yet gentle, "since our little one-on-one talks, I've been thinking." Hana and Riko exchanged nervous glances. They were uncertain what to expect. "This friendship dynamic is uncharted territory for all of us," Shizuka continued. "There will be challenges." Riko impulsively blurted out, "Challenges we can face together! Right, Hana?" "Absolutely," Hana agreed, offering a small smile. Shizuka nodded, a hint of a smile playing on her lips. "Good. But before we move forward, I need to lay out some ground rules." Both Hana and Riko leaned forward, a sense of seriousness settling over them. "The first rule," Shizuka said, her voice grave, "is that you can never put yourselves in a situation where I have to choose between saving one of you. My instincts... they haven't adjusted to this new reality. It wouldn't be a conscious decision, but in the heat of the moment..." She trailed off, the unspoken words hanging heavy in the air. Neither Hana nor Riko took it personally. They understood the burden Shizuka shouldered, the weight of a warrior's responsibility. "So, we watch each other's backs," Hana concluded, her voice firm. "No heroics that would leave the other vulnerable." Shizuka nodded, a flicker of appreciation in her eyes. "The second rule," she continued, bracing herself for the inevitable protest, "is... physical intimacy. It's simply not part of this... arrangement." Hana's cheeks flushed, but she shook her head vehemently. "Shizuka, I never—" Riko, however, pouted dramatically. "Aw, come on! You're no fun, Shizuka!" Shizuka ignored Riko's outburst. "I understand your feelings," she directed to Hana, her voice soft. "You and Riko are very familiar with each other, and you'd like to share that with me. But it's not about you. It's... not something I'm comfortable with." Hana met Shizuka's gaze, understanding blooming in her chest. This wasn't about rejection. It was about boundaries, about Shizuka offering them a piece of her heart while still protecting herself. "Finally, the third rule," Shizuka continued. "If ever a situation arises where you can achieve something truly great... something that benefits the world... even if it comes at my expense, you do it. No hesitation, no second thoughts. Trust that I can handle myself. And in turn, I will trust you can handle yourselves." A beat of stunned silence followed. Riko, her playful demeanor gone, looked at Shizuka with newfound respect. Hana reached out and squeezed Shizuka's hand gently. "Shizuka," she said, her voice thick with emotion, "are you sure? You're asking us to prioritize our lives over yours." Shizuka squeezed Hana's hand back, a hint of a smile gracing her lips. "Your lives are more valuable than anything," she said, her voice resolute, "This... this chance to share something deeper, it's... precious to me. But trust must be the foundation. Trust, and the knowledge that you'll always have each other's backs." The fire crackled, casting a warm glow on the three figures huddled together. This wasn't a love story ripped from a storybook. It was a bond forged in hardship and trust, a promise made with open eyes and open hearts. ---- Long after the embers in the fireplace had died down to a bed of ash, Hana and Riko lay in their shared bed, the weight of Shizuka's words pressing down on them. "I don't know, Riko," Hana whispered, staring at the shadows dancing on the ceiling. "Can we really promise something like that? To put the world before her... before each other?" Riko sighed, turning to face Hana. "No, Hana. To put the world before ourselves. It's a shared responsibility, remember? We're a team, all three of us." Hana bit her lip. "It just... feels like a lot. Like a burden we can't bear." "Maybe," Riko conceded, "but it's a burden we share. And besides, wouldn't you rather have a chance... a chance at something more with Shizuka, even with those conditions?" "It's not about the... relationship aspect, Riko," Hana said softly. "It's about the trust. Shizuka trusting us with that much... it's more than we deserve, honestly." Riko reached out, squeezing Hana's hand. "Maybe. But don't forget, Hana, Shizuka has always been guarded. Remember how she was back on Earth? Always a step ahead, never letting anyone get too close." Hana nodded, a memory stirring. Reserved, disciplined, Shizuka had always carried herself with an air of mystery. But here, in Atheria, that mystery had deepened, shadowed by experiences they could only guess at. "Something happened to her here," Riko said, her voice barely a whisper. "Something bad. Something that made her even more closed off than before." Hana squeezed Riko's hand back, a silent vow passing between them. They would protect Shizuka, not just from monsters and dungeons, but from the shadows of her past. They would be her friends, her sisters, her chosen family, and together, they would face whatever the future held, as Moonlight Prism, forever bound by a melody of friendship, trust, and a love that defied definition. Sleep eventually claimed them, the weight of Shizuka's proposition a heavy cloak on their shoulders. ---- Two months spun by in a whirlwind of activity. Melody Haven pulsed with a vibrant energy, the rhythmic hammering of construction crews now a familiar counterpoint to the lilting melodies that drifted through the streets. Shizuka, Hana, and Riko, their bond strengthened by the unique pact they'd forged, juggled their responsibilities with practiced ease. Days were a delightful chaos. Mornings found them leading joint music and swordsmanship classes, an unorthodox yet surprisingly effective combination that had the students brimming with newfound confidence. Afternoons were devoted to dungeon delving, a necessary evil that continued to propel them closer to the projected Level 99 cap. Shizuka, a force of nature with her katana, sliced through enemies with practiced ease, her level steadily climbing towards the coveted 90. Hana and Riko, the support team, lagged slightly behind, their levels hovering around 80. But they made up for it with their strategic skills and well-timed buffs, ensuring their trio emerged victorious from even the most challenging dungeons. The town itself bloomed under their care. New art schools sprouted like colorful mushrooms, each specializing in a different artistic discipline. A vibrant school for sculptors chiseled away at blocks of vibrant marble, while a troupe of aspiring actors practiced their Shakespearean monologues in a converted barn. The sheer diversity prompted a much-needed restructuring. With a flourish, they declared the establishment of the Melody Haven College of the Arts (the School of Necromancy formally remained separate for practical reasons). The undead were instrumental in the construction efforts, their skeletal frames surprisingly adept at hauling lumber and mixing mortar. By the end of the second month, Melody Haven's initial expansion had been completed. Proudly surveying the bustling marketplace and the newly paved streets, the trio couldn't help but marvel at how far they'd come from the sleepy town they initially lived in. However, as with any growing town, whispers of further expansion began to circulate. Town meetings were held, zoning plans meticulously crafted, points of expansion in the fields around the town set aside. They wanted Melody Haven to be not just an artistic haven, but a well-organized, efficient one. One evening, as they sat by the crackling fire, exhaustion pleasantly heavy on their limbs, Shizuka spoke up. "The Adventurer's Guild posted a notification of a new high-level dungeon opening up," she said, her voice low. Hana and Riko exchanged a glance, a mixture of trepidation and excitement sparking in their eyes. "Level requirement?" Riko asked, a playful grin spreading across her face. "Ninety," Shizuka replied, a hint of a challenge in her voice. Hana chuckled. "Looks like we have some catching up to do then, Shizuka." The fire crackled, casting dancing shadows on their faces. They were Moonlight Prism, musicians, artists, and now, town planners. But above all, they were a family, bound by an extraordinary friendship that defied definition. The College of the Arts was just the first step. Melody Haven, their haven built on music, magic, and the unyielding spirit of friendship, was only getting started. ---- The flickering lamplight danced on the worn notice board of the Adventurer's Guild, casting distorted shadows on the faces of Shizuka, Hana, and Riko. Shizuka scanned the postings with a practiced eye. Suddenly, her gaze sharpened. "News from the Lair of the Dragon Emperor raid," she announced, her voice low. Hana and Riko shared a nervous glance. The Lair of the Dragon Emperor had been the bane of high-level adventurers for months, a brutal test of skill and strategy. "Cleared," Shizuka continued, her voice devoid of emotion. "But at a heavy cost. Many casualties." Riko's eyes widened. "Casualties? But... that means..." Hana finished her thought, a knot of worry tightening in her stomach. "It means the dungeon wasn't a walk in the park. Not good news for whoever attempts the next one." Shizuka's lips quirked into a faint smile, a hint of excitement flickering in her eyes. "Speaking of the next one..." she pointed to a newly posted parchment, its edges still crisp. The parchment, emblazoned with a golden seal, announced the arrival of a new raid dungeon: The Celestial Temple of Atheria. The projected level requirement – a daunting Level 99. Riko gasped, her eyes sparkling with a mixture of awe and trepidation. "Celestial Temple of Atheria? Sounds fancy! Maybe this is the final one, the true endgame?" Hana understood Riko's enthusiasm, but her own heart thumped with a different kind of urgency. "Final or not," she said, her voice grave, "the high casualties from the Dragon Emperor mean a lot of adventurers won't be able to tackle this new one. It'll be dangerous." Shizuka sheathed her katana with a decisive click. "Then we'll just have to be strong enough," she said, her voice resolute. "Besides, with the Dragon Emperor cleared, it gives us more time to reach that Level 99 cap ourselves. If we hit it and can't progress any further... well, then we know we're at the endgame." But there was an unspoken 'if not' hanging in the air. If they reached Level 99 and the path continued... what then? What secrets did the Celestial Temple hold? Was it truly the pinnacle, or just another stepping stone on a never-ending staircase? ---- Shizuka entered their shared living room, a frown marring her usually stoic features. Her fingers clutched a tightly sealed letter, its ornate wax seal bearing the insignia of a long-dormant adventuring guild. "News from the past," she announced, her voice flat. Hana and Riko, nestled by the crackling fire, exchanged a curious glance. Raiding guilds were a relic of Shizuka's past, a time before Melody Haven and their unconventional life. "Who is it?" Riko asked. Shizuka broke the seal, her eyes scanning the parchment quickly. "A former contact from a guild, from my mercenary days," she said, her voice tight. "They're planning a future raid on the Celestial Temple." Hana felt a shiver crawl up her spine. The Celestial Temple of Atheria, the newly opened raid dungeon with its mythical name and daunting Level 99 requirement, had been a topic of hushed whispers. "A raid?" Riko gasped, a flicker of excitement mixing with the concern in her eyes. "But that's... that's endgame, right?" Shizuka nodded grimly. "The letter's an invitation. They're asking me to prepare, as one of the high-level adventuruers still around. The raiding guilds are looking to pool resources and gather as many adventurers as they can before setting foot in the raid dungeon." The silence in the room stretched, heavy with unspoken anxieties. "So," Hana finally ventured, her voice hesitant, "does that mean..." "It means," Shizuka interrupted, her gaze unwavering, "that we all need to hit Level 99, as soon as possible." Hana's heart sank. Raiding had never been part of their plan. Building Melody Haven, nurturing a haven for music and laughter, that was their passion. The thought of venturing into a high-pressure raid, facing down unknown dangers filled her with dread. Riko, however, seemed to see things differently. "Shizuka's right," she said, her voice firm. "We can't ignore this. We're high-level adventurers now, Hana. We have the power to make a difference, not just for ourselves, but for all the adventurers behind us." Hana understood Riko's logic. The Celestial Temple, if it was indeed the endgame, might hold the key to their predicament. Why were they in Atheria? Was there a way back home? These were questions that had plagued them since their arrival, and the Celestial Temple might finally offer some answers. "But..." Hana began, her voice trembling slightly, "the Dragon Emperor raid... they lost so many. We could become another statistic." Shizuka knelt before the fireplace, her eyes reflecting the dancing flames. "The dangers are real," she conceded, her voice low. "But we're not naive rookies. We've grown stronger, smarter. We'll face the Celestial Temple when we're ready, not a moment before. And," she added, a hint of steel in her voice, "we'll face it together." Hana met Shizuka's gaze, a spark of determination flickering in her own eyes. Raiding might not have been their choice, but they were a team, and they wouldn't back down from a challenge. "Let's focus on Level 99 first," Hana decided, her voice firm. "Reaching the cap will tell us a lot. If it is the end, then we'll figure out our next move together." ---- ## None of Our Business The air crackled with nervous excitement at the Adventurer's Guild. Sunshine Prism, however, sat in a secluded corner, a sense of unease settling in their stomachs. A group of triumphant adventurers, battered but beaming, were regaling a rapt audience with their tale of conquering the "Lair of the Dragon Emperor," a Level 90 raid dungeon. "Casualties were heavy," a grizzled warrior admitted, his voice raspy. "But the loot... oh, the loot!" Hikari winced. The celebration carried a bittersweet tinge. While conquering such a high-level dungeon was a monumental feat, the sheer number of casualties painted a grim picture. "Anything on the next raid dungeon?" Aoi, the pragmatic Gunslinger, cut through the celebratory chatter. A tense silence followed. Finally, the Guild receptionist, a mousy young woman, cleared her throat. "Indeed. The Celestial Temple of Atheria has opened its doors. It is speculated that the level cap of 99 is required to even attempt a successful clear." Aoi raised an eyebrow. "Level 99? That's practically the end of the game, isn't it?" Sakura, the responsible Paladin, frowned. "We're still only in the mid-50s. Grinding to 99... it wouldn't be an efficient use of our time." There was a heavy pause in the conversation. The weight of the receptionist's words hung in the air. Level 99, the speculated level cap. Did that mean the end of their grand adventure? Was this the point where Atheria, the world they'd grown to love, shut its doors on them? Hikari piped up, her voice laced with defiance. "So what? Let the high-level folks brave the temple. We'll stick to what we do best – protecting townsfolk from everyday threats." Aoi nodded in agreement. "Besides, who says we can't find adventures outside some fancy temple? The world is full of unexplored corners, monsters of all shapes and sizes. Why limit ourselves?" Sakura nibbled on her lip, torn. A part of her, the valiant warrior princess she strived to be, yearned to be part of such a monumental feat. But another part, the voice of reason, knew they were ill-equipped for a Level 99 raid. "You're both right," she conceded finally. "We're not ready for something like that yet. But... we can't just sit on our laurels either. We need to find a way to bridge the gap." ---- Frustration simmered in the cluttered corner of the Adventurer's Guild as the Sunshine Prism girls huddled around a bulletin board. A single flyer, plastered amidst wanted posters and guild announcements, stood out like a beacon. It was an advertisement from one of the high-level raiding guilds responsible for conquering the Dragon Emperor's Lair, the Sun Kings guild. "Shepherd Program: Experienced adventurers offer guidance and training to promising mid-level adventurers. Level up faster and prepare for the ultimate challenge – The Celestial Temple!" Aoi squinted at the bold print. "Shepherd program, huh? Sounds more like filling the ranks they thinned out at the Dragon Emperor's lair." Sakura, the Paladin, frowned. "Maybe, maybe not. But if the Celestial Temple is truly the endgame, Aoi, wouldn't it be a way to bridge the gap you were talking about yesterday?" Hikari, with Fluffy perched on her shoulder, chimed in hesitantly. "But raiding... it's different. It requires a different kind of combat, coordination with a large group. Not like clearing dungeons the way we usually do." Sakura's frown deepened. "Hikari, Aoi, why are you both so resistant to the idea? Don't you want to be heroes? Don't you want to be part of something bigger?" Aoi scoffed. "We are heroes, Sakura. Just not the 'legendary heroes' you seem fixated on lately." Sakura's temper flared. "So you wouldn't seize the chance to be one? What about me then? Do I not matter?" The air crackled with unspoken tension. Hikari, used to mediating their arguments, spoke softly. "Sakura, what's gotten into you? You've been acting... different ever since we came to Atheria." Aoi crossed her arms, her voice low. "It wasn't our actions that caused Hana and Riko to stop talking to us, Sakura. It was..." Sakura slammed her fist on the table, silencing the Guild around them. "That was different! This is about becoming legends, about leaving a mark on this world!" Hikari's eyes widened. This wasn't the Sakura she knew - the kind, compassionate leader who prioritized the safety of others above all else. Where had that Sakura gone? "Maybe," Hikari said, her voice firm despite the tremor in her heart, "we don't need a fancy title or a raid to be heroes. Maybe helping people in need, like we always have, is enough." Sakura stared at them, her blue eyes filled with a storm of emotions. She opened her mouth to retort, but no words came out. Shame seemed to flicker across her face, quickly replaced by a hardened resolve. With a deep breath, she turned away, her voice flat. "Fine. You two do whatever you want. I'll find a way to make a difference." And with that, Sakura stormed off into the bustling crowd, leaving Aoi and Hikari alone, the weight of unspoken words hanging heavy in the air. Fluffy chirped sadly, sensing the discord in his beloved companions. ---- Discomfort gnawed at Hikari as she stood awkwardly in the dungeon entrance. The flickering torchlight cast long, grotesque shadows across the damp stone walls. Despite the seriousness of the situation, the sight of Aoi and Sakura in their usual attire – their enchanted maid outfits. Hikari, still clad in the blasphemous "nun" outfit (minus the cross), felt like a walking contradiction – a supposed healer in a battle she wasn't sure she wanted to fight. They had joined the Sun Kings' "shepherding" program, enticed by the promise of faster leveling. However, the reality was a far cry from heroic. The "training" consisted of them being ushered into a Level 80 dungeon alongside two bored-looking Level 90 adventurers. The high-levels blazed through the dungeon, effortlessly mowing down monsters thirty levels above the girls' heads. Aoi and Hikari exchanged exasperated glances. This wasn't combat; it was glorified babysitting. Sakura, however, seemed determined to make the most of it. She valiantly charged at any monster that dared linger, her attacks bouncing harmlessly off their thick hides. Despite the futility, a glint of determination shone in her eyes. By the end of the grinding session, they had inexplicably reached Level 60. The high-level adventurers, a hulking barbarian and a wiry sorceress, appeared beside them, collecting their pre-paid fee with practiced ease. "Not bad for a bunch of newbies," the barbarian grunted, his voice barely audible beneath his massive beard. "Though, seriously, consider ditching the maid outfits if you wanna be taken seriously." Aoi bristled. "Our outfits are perfectly functional," she retorted, her voice laced with annoyance. "Unlike some people who rely solely on brute force." The sorceress snorted. "Whatever. Just remember, strength isn't everything in a raid, but it's a pretty good start." With that, the high-level duo disappeared in a flash of light, leaving the Sunshine Prism girls alone amidst the detritus of the conquered dungeon. "Well," Hikari said, her voice flat, "that was... an experience." Aoi kicked at a pebble on the ground. "Efficient, maybe. But definitely not heroic." Sakura, surprisingly, seemed upbeat. "Look, we leveled up, right? And besides, we paid for the whole program, might as well stick it out." Aoi and Hikari exchanged another look. Sakura had a point, but the whole episode left a sour taste in their mouths. Gaining levels was one thing, but they felt no more experienced than before. As they exited the dungeon, the setting sun cast an orange glow across the horizon. The world outside, with its bustling towns and perilous wilderness, felt a million miles away from the sterile efficiency of the grinding session. ---- ## Finding a Niche The air hung heavy with the scent of dust and decay as Shizuka led Hana and Riko through the imposing iron gates of the Tomb of the Fallen King. "Level 70 raid dungeon," Hana muttered, her voice barely a whisper. Unlike the smaller dungeons they were accustomed to, the Tomb exuded a palpable sense of foreboding. Shizuka, however, seemed unfazed. "Don't worry," she said, her voice calm, "we're not going deep. Think of it as an experiment." Riko tilted her head in confusion. "Experiment? Like a raid bootcamp?" Shizuka chuckled, a rare sound in the echoing halls. "Something like that. But with a twist." She explained the unique nature of raid dungeons. Unlike regular dungeons where bosses respawned for repeated grinding, raid dungeons were one-shot deals. The bosses were vanquished, never to return. However, the trash mobs, the lesser enemies that populated the dungeons, respawned at regular intervals. This, Shizuka explained, was why she'd chosen the Tomb. "The Fallen King himself is long gone," Shizuka said, drawing her katana, "but his elite skeleton warriors still roam these halls. Quality specimens, I imagine." Hana's eyes widened. "Quality specimens? You mean for..." Shizuka nodded, a glint in her eyes. "Necromancy." This was a test, not just of their combat prowess, but of their unorthodox Melody Haven army defense strategy. They had all mastered the Necromancer class, but Shizuka wanted to see how well Hana and Riko could raise skeletons and buff them with their musical necromancy – Hana's violin and Riko's enchanting song – in a high-level environment. They delved deeper, the air growing colder with each step. Soon, they encountered their first enemies. Skeletal warriors, clad in rusted armor, materialized from the shadows, their swords glinting in the dim torchlight. The fight was a blur of coordinated strikes. Shizuka, a whirlwind of steel, dispatched enemies with practiced ease, creating an opening for Hana and Riko. With a flourish, Hana raised a fallen warrior, its bones glowing an ethereal blue under the influence of her music. Riko, her voice weaving a melody of power, enhanced the skeleton's strength and speed. The newly risen warrior, imbued with the melody of Melody Haven, fought with surprising ferocity. It moved with a grace and efficiency that belied its skeletal form, a testament to the power of their combined abilities. The following encounters unfolded in a similar fashion. Hana and Riko raised skeletal warriors, each infused with their musical necromancy, creating a formidable army at their command. The warriors, once formidable enemies, were now loyal defenders, their blades flashing in unison with the rhythm of Riko's song. By the time they reached their designated turning point, Shizuka was impressed. The dungeon echoed with the haunting melody of Melody Haven, a testament to their unique approach to necromancy. "Excellent work," Shizuka said, a hint of a smile playing on her lips. "Our strategy seems quite effective." Hana, wiping a bead of sweat from her brow, couldn't help but feel a surge of pride. "It seems necromancy in a raid setting has its advantages," she conceded, a playful smile on her face. Riko was also impressed. "Now, about those quality skeletons..." Shizuka grinned. "Let's see what the Fallen King's elite have to offer." ---- In a cavern partially cleared of skeletal debris, Hana, Riko, and Shizuka sat amongst a phalanx of their newfound warriors. The melody of Riko's song still echoed, infusing the air with a faint power. Riko herself leaned against a bone-legged comrade, her eyes sparkling. "These guys are amazing!" she exclaimed, patting the skeletal shoulder beside her. "Why don't more raid groups use skeleton warriors? They're like living shields!" Shizuka snorted. "Necromancy, Riko, carries a certain... stigma in Atheria. Most high-level adventurers wouldn't touch it with a ten-foot pole." "Right," Riko conceded, a thoughtful frown on her usually cheery face. "But we do! And with the power-up from our music... couldn't we make up for the lack of other Necromancers with sheer numbers?" Shizuka considered this, her eyes scanning the ranks of their skeletal army. "It's an interesting thought," she admitted. "But even buffed up, skeletons lack the fine-tuned reflexes and combat instincts of a living adventurer. We'd need a lot of them to compensate." "A lot?" Hana echoed, swallowing hard. An image of hundreds of skeletal warriors cluttering up a dungeon hallway flashed in her mind. The claustrophobia was real. Shizuka nodded. "Then there's the control aspect. Coordinating a large skeleton army while fighting alongside them... it's a demanding skill. Most raiders wouldn't bother enrolling in the School of Necromancy just to learn it." Riko's eyes gleamed with mischief. "So it falls to us then, doesn't it?" Hana shot Riko a panicked look. "Us? You mean..." "Necromancer Idols!" Riko declared, striking a pose. "We dominate the battlefield with music, while our skeletal army crushes the enemy underfoot!" Hana sputtered, a blush creeping up her cheeks. "Necromancer Idols? That's... that's ridiculous!" Shizuka sighed, a flicker of amusement in her eyes. "Ridiculous or not," she said, her voice firm, "it might be the best strategy we have. We'll need to refine it, of course, figure out how to optimize the musical buffs and command structure. But..." she paused, her gaze sweeping over their assembled army, "it could work." Hana felt a knot of nervous excitement tighten in her stomach. The idea of leading a skeleton army into high-level raids was daunting, bordering on absurd. But as she looked at Riko, a mischievous grin mirroring her own, and then at Shizuka, a hint of a smile dancing on her lips, Hana knew they would figure it out. "Just don't get too attached to your new friend there," Hana suggested, glancing at Riko. Riko shrugged, patting her skeleton companion's shoulder pad. "Yeah, yeah. The worst thing you can do with these guys is give them names." She turned to address the skeleton. "Isn't that right, Cleavenoff?" "Riko!" Hana yelled, exasperated. "Naming them doesn't help!" "I'm kidding!" she claimed defensively. "Well, maybe. I can think up better names than that." ---- The dying light of the Atheria sun cast long shadows across the newly expanded ramparts of Melody Haven. Hana, Riko, and Shizuka sat in companionable silence, each one lost in their own thoughts. The weight of the impending raid on the Celestial Temple pressed heavily on them. Their success in the Tomb of the Fallen King had filled them with a cautious optimism, but the unknown terrors that awaited in the endgame raid dungeon loomed large. Sensing the tension, Riko rose with a playful wink. "Well, you two lovebirds seem to have a lot to discuss," she teased, her voice light. "I'll leave you to it. Just try and... play nice, alright?" With a mischievous grin, Riko ambled off towards the bustling marketplace below, leaving Hana and Shizuka alone on the ramparts. Hana fidgeted, unsure how to broach the subject that weighed heavily on her heart. "Shizuka," she finally began, her voice barely a whisper. "What are you thinking about?" Shizuka remained silent for a moment, her gaze fixed on the distant horizon. "You and Riko," she finally said, her voice low and raw. "I only want you both to... to survive." Hana's breath hitched. The naked vulnerability in Shizuka's voice sent a pang through her heart. "Survive? But Shizuka, we're all in this together. We'll face the raid as a team." Shizuka shook her head, a flicker of despair in her eyes. "That's not enough. Not this time. The Celestial Temple... it feels different. There is a sense of finality to it." Hana reached out, placing a gentle hand on Shizuka's arm. "Shizuka," she said, her voice firm but laced with concern, "you need to look after yourself too. You can't be so... reckless. Don't you see? You're not alone anymore." Shizuka met Hana's gaze, her eyes filled with a storm of unspoken emotions. The air crackled with unspoken words, with a truth neither of them had dared to voice before. "If you died...," Hana continued, her voice trembling, "it wouldn't... it wouldn't make me... make Riko or me happy." Shizuka remained silent, the weight of Hana's words hanging heavy in the air. But then, hesitantly, slowly, Shizuka reached out and took Hana's hand in hers. The touch was warm, a fragile connection in a world filled with uncertainty. Hana looked into Shizuka's eyes, searching for an answer, a promise, anything. But all she found was a reflection of her own fears, her own hopes. In that silent exchange, however, Hana found a flicker of solace. Perhaps words weren't needed. Perhaps, in the face of an unknown future, this small gesture, this unspoken pact, was enough. As the last rays of sunlight dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant hues of orange and purple, Hana and Shizuka sat in companionable silence, their hands intertwined. ---- The dying embers in the fireplace cast long shadows on Shizuka's face as she sat alone by the hearth, lost in her thoughts. Riko perceptively slipped in and sat beside her, the silence stretching between them. "Mind if I join you?" Riko asked gently. Shizuka tilted her head, her eyes guarded. "It's your house, too, you know." There was another beat of silence, then Riko took a deep breath. "Shizuka," she began, "about Hana..." Shizuka's brow furrowed slightly, a flicker of wariness crossing her features. "Hana... well..." Riko stumbled, searching for the right words. "She wants more. More than just... this." She gestured vaguely between them, encompassing their unconventional life in Melody Haven. Shizuka remained silent, her gaze fixed on the flickering flames. "Hana is... honest with her feelings," Riko continued, frustration creeping into her voice. "Everyone can see the way she looks at you, Shizuka. You're like a brick wall, though. Nobody knows what's going on in that head of yours." Shizuka's silence stretched on, a heavy weight in the room. "Look," Riko said, her voice softening, "we all get it. You're worried about hurting Hana, about messing things up between us. But trust me, Shizuka, that's not a decision you get to make for her. We're... we're okay with it." Shizuka finally tore her gaze from the fire and locked eyes with Riko. Her voice, when she spoke, was barely a whisper. "I... I don't want to come between you." Riko snorted, a frustrated laugh escaping her lips. "Shizuka, that ship sailed a long time ago! We're a team, remember? A family. Hana's feelings... they don't change that." The frustration in Riko's voice seemed to crack the dam of Shizuka's stoicism. "I'm not... interested in a relationship," she said, her voice flat. Riko threw her hands up in exasperation. "Relationship? Hana's not asking you to sleep with her, Shizuka! She wants you to... to open up! To be vulnerable! We all know what you're like in battle, but who are you really? The stoic warrior princess? That's an act, Shizuka. We want to see the real you. The Shizuka who used to be a fashion model and actress back on Earth. The one who shared lunches with us and laughed at our corny jokes." Riko's voice softened. "What happened to that Shizuka?" Shizuka closed her eyes, a wave of sadness washing over her face. When she finally spoke, her voice was barely audible. "That Shizuka... died a long time ago." The weight of her words hung heavy in the air, a stark truth that chilled Riko to the bone. This wasn't just about a relationship. This was about a broken past, about a woman who had retreated so far into herself that even her own name felt like a stranger's. Riko, for the first time, saw Shizuka not as the formidable warrior, but as a lost soul, haunted by the ghosts of her past. ---- In the quiet darkness of their shared bedroom, Hana lay wide awake, staring at the flickering shadows cast by the dying embers in the fireplace. The words Riko shared of her conversation with Shizuka echoed in her mind, "That Shizuka died a long time ago" resonating with a heavy weight. Beside her, Riko stirred, her usual upbeat demeanor replaced by a troubled sigh. "Couldn't sleep either, huh?" Riko mumbled, her voice thick with exhaustion. Hana turned to face her, the faint moonlight illuminating Riko's worried expression. "No," she whispered. "What Shizuka said... it just keeps replaying in my head." Riko nodded, her eyes filled with a newfound understanding. "She's built these walls around herself, Hana. Walls so high we can barely see the person she used to be." A heavy silence descended upon them, broken only by the crackling fire. Riko's next words surprised Hana. "We need to clear the game, Hana. Whatever this Atheria is, we need to beat it. For Shizuka." Hana frowned. "Clear the game? What do you mean?" "Think about it," Riko continued, her voice gaining conviction. "When we came to Atheria, it wasn't... terrible. We had each other, we figured things out. But for Shizuka..." Riko trailed off, but Hana understood. Unlike them, Shizuka hadn't landed in Atheria with a carefree spirit and a best friend by her side. Something had happened to her, something that had fundamentally altered her on a very real level. Shizuka's "death" might have been metaphorical, but Riko's words rang true - it was a truth nonetheless. Hana's heart ached for the Shizuka hidden beneath layers of stoicism and grief. Up until now, their goal in Atheria had been vague - to build Melody Haven, a haven of music and laughter. But now, a new purpose bloomed within her. "You're right, Riko," Hana said, her voice firm. "We can't just focus on ourselves anymore. We need to find a way out of Atheria, for Shizuka's sake." A flicker of hope ignited in Riko's eyes. "We'll figure it out, Hana. We always do. We'll level up, conquer the Celestial Temple, and who knows? Maybe there's a way to break the game, to find a way back home, or..." Riko hesitated, a hint of uncertainty creeping into her voice, "...or maybe there's a way to heal Shizuka in this world." ---- A frown creased Hana's brow as she read the latest town crier announcement. "The esteemed nobles of Zenith City are most displeased," it bellowed, the ink still drying, "with the unorthodox practices of Melody Haven that are siphoning business away from the city." Riko snatched the parchment, her eyes scanning the text with a playful smirk. "Sour grapes, much?" Hana chuckled. "Seems Zenith City can't take the competition. We've got a thriving marketplace, a College of the Arts with an actual School of Necromancy," she added, winking at Riko, "and entertainment venues that are bursting at the seams." Melody Haven, once a sleepy frontier hamlet, had blossomed into a full-fledged town, bustling with activity. The constant influx of adventurers seeking refuge and entertainment fueled their growth. Now, with the added protection offered by alliances with the four largest raiding guilds, Melody Haven was becoming the destination of choice, much to the chagrin of the snooty elite in Zenith City. "They'll get over it," Riko scoffed, tossing the parchment on the table. "They'll probably just start buying up land here soon enough, and build gaudy vacation retreats next to our concert halls." Hana, however, felt a newfound sense of purpose stirring within her. Melody Haven had thrived, not just because of their unconventional approach, but also because it had fostered a sense of community and belonging. The town had taken on a life of its own, with its own rhythms and melodies. "Perhaps Melody Haven has reached a point where it can determine its own destiny," Hana said slowly, a new resolve settling in her eyes. Riko's eyes widened. "What are you thinking?" Hana took a deep breath. "We've poured our hearts and souls into building this place, Riko. The College of the Arts, the marketplaces, the guilds... it all functions beautifully without constant oversight from us." Riko's smirk faltered, replaced by a flicker of understanding. "You mean..." "It's time," Hana interrupted, her voice firm. "It's time we focused all our efforts on the Celestial Temple." Shizuka's words about survival, the weight of responsibility towards them, weighed heavily on Hana. The Celestial Temple was more than just a raid; it was potentially the key to everything. The key to getting Shizuka back, the key to finding a way home, the key to... a new beginning. "Melody Haven will continue to thrive, with or without our constant presence," Hana continued, her gaze meeting Riko's. "But clearing the Celestial Temple... that requires our full attention." Riko clapped her hands together with a grin. "We'll conquer that dungeon, Shizuka included, and then..." her voice trailed off, a playful glint in her eyes, "then we can finally get Shizuka to loosen up and join us for some karaoke night!" Hana laughed, the sound echoing through the bustling town square. The melody of their determination resonated, a harmony between two friends, two heroes, ready to face their toughest challenge yet. Melody Haven would continue its song, while they, Moonlight Prism, would write a new verse, a verse of courage, sacrifice, and the unwavering melody of hope, all for the sake of their friend, their family, and perhaps, a way back to whatever reality awaited them beyond Atheria. ---- ## Building to the Endgame The air crackled with the dying embers of a monster sorcerer's spell as Shizuka, a whirlwind of steel, dispatched the final enemy. Her twin katanas, Windblade and River Edge, sang a deadly duet, their movements light and precise despite their formidable size. Hana, her violin case strapped to her back, surveyed the carnage with a sigh of relief. "Another pack down," she said, her voice breathless. Riko, her microphone crackling with residual magic, grinned. "And another level closer, Shizuka!" Shizuka sheathed her blades with a practiced click. But a flicker of surprise crossed her features as a soft chime echoed in her mind, followed by a surge of power that coursed through her body. "Level 99," she announced, her voice calm despite the tremor of excitement in her heart. Hana and Riko's eyes widened. Level 99. The speculated level cap for adventurers in Atheria. They had known it was coming, but seeing it achieved, especially by Shizuka, sent a jolt of exhilaration through them. "First to 99, Shizuka?" Riko's voice quivered with a mix of awe and pride. "That's... that's incredible!" Hana sank down onto a nearby rock, wiping sweat from her brow. "So," she said, her voice barely a whisper, "is that it? Is Level 99 the cap?" Shizuka, her eyes closed, seemed to be lost in her own thoughts. A moment later, she opened her eyes, a flicker of understanding replacing the initial surprise. "Yes," she said, her voice firm. "The system message confirmed it. Level 99 is the current limit for adventurers." The weight of that statement hung heavy in the air. Level 99. The pinnacle of their physical capabilities within Atheria. It was a milestone, a testament to their dedication, but it also brought with it a sense of uncertainty. Did reaching the cap mean they were at the end of their journey? Was the Celestial Temple truly the endgame, or was there something beyond? Silently, they gathered their belongings, the silence heavier than the usual banter that filled their dungeon runs. The return journey to Melody Haven was a contemplative one. Even the vibrant town square with its bustling marketplace couldn't quite dispel the weight of their discovery. At the Adventurer's Guild, Shizuka approached the receptionist, her back straight, her movements imbued with a newfound confidence. "Level 99 registration," she declared, placing a hand on the counter. The receptionist gaped at her. He had never seen a Level 99 adventurer before. After a moment of stunned silence, he scrambled to update the records, his hands shaking slightly. With a final flourish, the registration was complete. Shizuka, the first Level 99 adventurer in Atheria, stood tall, a symbol of unwavering determination. "Level 99 confirmed," she announced, turning to face Hana and Riko. "The cap has been reached." The weight of that announcement settled upon them. Level 99. It was both an ending and a beginning. The ending of a chapter in their journey, the chapter of relentless pursuit of strength. But it was also the beginning of a new one, a chapter where they would put their strength to the ultimate test – the Celestial Temple. The melody of their resolve echoed in their hearts, a melody of anticipation, of purpose, and perhaps a hint of trepidation. They had reached the peak of their physical capabilities, but the true challenge, the one that held the answers to their past and their future, awaited them in the heart of the Celestial Temple. ---- News of Shizuka, the first Level 99 adventurer, spread like wildfire across Atheria. Bards strummed tales of her prowess, merchants hawked "Level Up Like Shizuka!" potions of dubious efficacy, and aspiring adventurers flocked to Melody Haven, hoping to glean some secret to her success. However, within the bustling town square, Shizuka remained focused. Level 99 was a milestone, but not the finish line. The Celestial Temple loomed, its mysteries and dangers yet to be unraveled. "There has to be more we can do," Shizuka muttered, her brow furrowed as she traced the worn hilt of her Crimson katana. As an Asura, she wielded six blades, each with a distinct purpose. But the Crimson, a weapon acquired in a mid-level dungeon, felt lacking. It wasn't a reflection of her true potential. Riko clapped her hands together. "New blades then! We'll scour every corner of Atheria, find you the perfect replacements!" Shizuka sighed. Finding a replacement wouldn't be easy. Each of her katanas served a specific function, and crafting a new one, imbued with the right enchantments, would be a daunting task. Hana, her brow furrowed in thought, piped up. "What about the Peacemaker?" Shizuka froze. The Peacemaker, a magnificent katana crafted from exquisitely rare materials donated by the four raiding guilds, stood proudly displayed in the town hall. It wasn't just a weapon; it was a symbol of Melody Haven's unity and strength. Shizuka was gifted the weapon, but never intended to wield it. "The Peacemaker?" Shizuka repeated, her voice hesitant. "That's... a town symbol, Hana. I couldn't possibly..." Hana's smile, however, was resolute. "But it's still your sword, Shizuka. You helped create it. Besides," she winked, "it's gathering dust in the town hall. Wouldn't it be better served in the hands of the first Level 99 adventurer?" Shizuka remained conflicted. Taking the Peacemaker felt akin to stripping the town of its symbol. Seeing her friend's struggle, Riko offered a solution. "What if it wasn't taking, but... a trade?" she suggested. The gears in Shizuka's mind began to turn. A trade... perhaps. She could relinquish the Crimson katana, leaving it in the Peacemaker's place. The townsfolk would still have a symbol, a tangible reminder of their unity, while she wielded a weapon worthy of her newfound power. The idea took root. With the town council's blessing, a small ceremony was held. Shizuka, clad in her ceremonial armor, officially "traded" the Crimson for the Peacemaker. As she grasped the beautifully balanced hilt, a surge of power crackled through her. The Peacemaker, imbued with the spirit of Melody Haven, resonated with her strength. Standing before the gathered townsfolk, Shizuka raised the Peacemaker high. "This blade," she declared, her voice ringing with conviction, "is now a symbol not just of unity, but of our collective strength. We face the Celestial Temple together, Melody Haven!" The townsfolk erupted in cheers. The melody of their support washed over Shizuka, a powerful current propelling her forward. The path ahead might be fraught with danger, but she wouldn't face it alone. ---- The news of Shizuka's official "trade" with Melody Haven for the Peacemaker spread like wildfire through the bustling town square. The townsfolk buzzed with excitement, their champion wielding a weapon that embodied their collective spirit. Yet, amidst the celebratory atmosphere, Shizuka remained focused, her gaze fixed on the horizon. "The Celestial Temple," she muttered, tracing the smooth surface of the Peacemaker. "It demands more." Hana and Riko, ever in tune with their leader's mood, exchanged a knowing glance. While reaching Level 99 was a monumental achievement, they all understood it wasn't the final note in their melody. Gathering her friends close, Shizuka laid out her plan. "The Moonlight Herald and Obsidian Annihilator need no further enhancement," she began, referring to her legendary katanas. "The Peacemaker, being a crafted weapon, can be improved with rare materials." Shizuka's gaze lingered on her remaining three blades: Wraithblade, Windblade, and River Edge. Wraithblade, a weapon specifically designed for ethereal enemies, wouldn't be of much use in the Celestial Temple. However, Windblade and River Edge, the twin katanas she wielded for her signature dual-wielding style, posed a different kind of challenge. "There are no readily available replacements for Windblade and River Edge in high-level dungeons," Shizuka explained, her voice laced with frustration. "Katanas in general are not light weapons, but Windblade and River Edge, being enchanted elemental weapons, are much lighter than average, so they are irreplaceable. Therefore, we need to find means of enhancing them." Her plan was audacious, even for their unconventional approach. They would delve into the treacherous Conflux of Wind, a high-level air elemental dungeon, and the chilling Abyssal Depths, a water elemental dungeon, in search of specific materials rumored to enhance weapons imbued with those elements. Hana frowned. "Those are some of the most dangerous dungeons in Atheria," she pointed out, concern evident in her voice. "The elementals in them exceed Level 95." Shizuka met her gaze unflinchingly. "They are. But the potential rewards are worth the risk." "Well, it certainly beats doing the Stone Heart or the Magma Tanker," Riko reasoned, grinning. "Besides, we can still level grind towards Level 99 while we search for those materials. Maybe we'll even find some sweet upgrades for ourselves!" Hana couldn't help but smile at Riko's infectious enthusiasm. Despite the inherent danger, the prospect of venturing into uncharted territory, of pushing their boundaries, resonated with their adventurous spirit. ---- The warm glow of enchanted lanterns cast a gentle light over Melody Haven's central square. Laughter and boisterous chatter filled the air, a stark contrast to the usual pre-raid tension. Tonight, the square wasn't a staging ground for battle, but a stage for a different kind of combat – a battle against despair. News of the Celestial Temple and the level cap had a profound impact on Atheria's adventurers. The initial thrill of discovery quickly morphed into a suffocating pressure. Level 99, once a distant aspiration, became a looming deadline. The joy of adventure was replaced by a relentless grind, a desperate scramble to reach the peak. Recognizing this shift, Hana and Riko, the inseparable duo known as Moonlight Prism, decided to take action. They planned a concert – a celebration of life, adventure, and the small victories that fueled their journeys. Tonight, Hana stood bathed in the golden hues of the lanterns, her flowing white gown and silver hair flowing with the wind. Her violin, polished to a mirror sheen, rested under her chin. Beside her, Riko, resplendent in a sultry black dress that glittered with tiny sequins, radiated mischievous energy, her short, silver hair left deliberately wild and messy in contrast to Hana's clean look. "Alright adventurers!" Riko's voice rang out, clear and powerful. "Are you ready to take a break from all that level grinding and hear a song that doesn't involve a boss monster's lament?" A thunderous cheer erupted from the assembled crowd. Weary faces, etched with worry and frustration, broke into wide grins. Tonight, they were not just adventurers, but a community bound by a shared love for adventure and a shared fear of the unknown. Hana drew a deep breath, her bow whispering against the strings as she began a familiar melody. It was a simple tune, one they had played countless times. Yet, tonight, it held a different weight. It was a song of resilience, a reminder of the joy they found in the journey itself, not just the destination. Riko's voice, rich and soulful, wove a tapestry of stories over the melody. Tales of unlikely friendships forged in battle, of breathtaking landscapes discovered off the beaten path, of the sheer exhilaration of conquering a challenging dungeon. Each verse, each chorus, was a balm to the adventurers' weary souls. As the music swelled, the tension in the square melted away. A seasoned warrior with a grizzled beard hummed along, his eyes twinkling with a forgotten memory. A young mage tapped her foot in rhythm, her nervous energy replaced by a newfound excitement. The concert wasn't just about entertainment; it was a call to arms, a reminder of why they fought, of why they adventured. They fought not just to reach Level 99, but for the thrill of the unknown, for the camaraderie of their companions, for the melodies woven into the very fabric of their lives. The final note faded into the night, leaving behind a profound silence. Then, as if on cue, a deafening roar of applause erupted, shaking the very foundations of Melody Haven. It wasn't just applause; it was a promise, a vow to face the challenges ahead with renewed vigor. ---- Hana stared at the garish poster plastered on the Adventurer's Guild bulletin board, her jaw clenched tight. It depicted her and Riko, rendered in a cartoonish style, their figures impossibly curvy, their outfits far from practical for adventuring. Below them, in bold, red letters, screamed the slogan: "Moonlight Prism: Idols Worth Fighting For!" "Seriously, Riko?" Hana hissed, snatching the poster down. "This is... this is..." Riko, who had been regaling a group of wide-eyed adventurers with tales of their 'near-death experience' in the Conflux of Wind, glanced at the poster and burst into laughter. "Relax, Hana! It's just a bit of fun." "Fun?" Hana sputtered, brandishing the offending poster. "We're high-level adventurers, not... not wartime pin-ups I read about in those history books!" Riko's laughter subsided, replaced by a thoughtful glint in her eyes. "You know, Hana," she said, her voice lowered, "it's not all bad." Hana raised an eyebrow. "Oh really? Enlighten me." Riko leaned closer, gesturing to the gathered adventurers. "Look at them. They're practically glowing. You see how they light up when you mentioned us training in the Conflux? Or when you talk about your violin skills?" Hana glanced at the adventurers. They were indeed hanging onto Riko's every word, their eyes filled with not just awe, but a spark of... inspiration? "You see, Hana," Riko continued, "we represent something different. Shizuka, she's a legend, the stoic protector. But us? We're proof that even regular folks, who happen to be talented with a violin and a song, can reach high levels, can become heroes in our own way." Hana fell silent, considering Riko's words. While the "Idols Worth Fighting For" moniker was about as subtle as a war horn, there was a truth to Riko's words. They were becoming aspirational figures, not just for their musical talent, but for their strength and unwavering support of Melody Haven. "It's not about being scantily clad," Riko said with a wink. "It's about showing them that heroes come in all shapes and sizes. And maybe," she added, a mischievous glint in her eyes, "it doesn't hurt to have a little fun with the image, either." Hana sighed, a small smile tugging at her lips. "Fine, fine," she conceded. Riko threw her arms around Hana, laughing. "But seriously, Hana," she said, her voice softening, "we're not just heroes, we're symbols. Idols, if you will, of a different kind. And with the Celestial Temple looming, Atheria needs all the inspiration it can get." Hana looked back at the gathered adventurers, their faces alight with a renewed fire. Perhaps, she mused, being an idol wasn't the worst thing in the world. Maybe their melodies, their strength, and yes, even their somewhat embarrassing posters, could be the spark that helped Atheria's heroes face the challenges ahead. After all, in a world filled with fear and uncertainty, a little inspiration, even if it came with a side of glitter and exaggerated proportions, could go a long way. ---- ## Looking for Morale A month had crawled by like a wounded slug. The once vibrant Sunshine Prism girls now stood, each a Level 90 powerhouse, in the sterile training room of the Sun Kings. The "shepherding" program had delivered on its promise, but the victory tasted like ash in their mouths. Sure, their equipment had marginally improved – cast-off scraps the high-level adventurers deemed unworthy. But the experience itself felt hollow, devoid of the thrill of discovery, the camaraderie of earned victory. They hadn't fought; they'd been spectators in a slaughter. Sakura, however, seemed energized. Her eyes blazed with a feverish determination. Reaching Level 99, the newly confirmed level cap for the Celestial Temple, had become her sole focus. For Aoi and Hikari, this single-minded pursuit felt like a betrayal of everything they stood for. "We made it," Sakura declared, a triumphant smile splitting her face. "Just nine more levels to stand among the legends!" Aoi and Hikari exchanged a worried glance. Sakura seemed utterly oblivious to their discomfort. They knew reasoning with her was a lost cause. Later, slumped at a dingy tavern table, Aoi sighed. "I feel... dirty, Hikari. Like we cheated our way to Level 90." Hikari nodded. "Me too. We're supposed to be heroes, not glorified loot bags for bored high-levels. What if we're just meant to be fodder for the actual raid?" A heavy silence descended upon them. Abandoning Sakura was unthinkable, but neither could stomach the sterile grind anymore. They were adrift, their compass broken, their friendship strained. They were Level 90 adventurers, but they were no better than they were thirty levels ago. Any dungeon mechanic, any sense of strategy went out the window when being carried by bored, overleveled adventurers. And now that they were at the 'bare minimum level' of the elite, the Sun Kings left them to their own devices to carry other adventurers paying for their training regimen. With a shared sense of desperation, Aoi and Hikari ventured into the bustling Adventurer's Guild. A colorful poster caught their eye: "Melody Haven Presents: The Moonlight Prism! A Concert for the Aspiring Heroes!" Aoi's eyes widened. "Hana and Riko? Could this be... ?" Hikari's heart sank. Melody Haven, the once-beloved music venue, was the place they'd been banished from, thanks to Sakura's actions. Seeking solace there felt like tempting fate. "But we were banished," she reminded Aoi, her voice barely a whisper. Aoi's smile was tight. "Maybe this is what we need, Hikari. A reminder of what it means to be heroes, not glorified statistics." Hikari understood. The carefree joy of music, the shared spirit of adventure, that was what they'd craved amidst the monotony of grinding. But their past actions... "We can't go back," Hikari said, her voice heavy with regret. "They'll arrest us or worse!" Aoi nudged the poster. "Maybe not officially," she said, a mischievous glint in her eye. "But who says we can't just go as someone else?" ---- The air hung thick with anticipation as Hikari and Aoi, squeezed into ill-fitting jester costumes, crouched beneath the window of Melody Haven. Tonight, Hana and Riko, their estranged friends, were performing here as Moonlight Prism. "Are you sure about this?" Hikari whispered, the oversized jester hat drooping over her eyes. Aoi, her face obscured by a mask with a too-wide grin, adjusted a pom-pom on her shoulder. "We need a break, Hikari. Maybe seeing them will... change something." A hush fell over the crowd. A spotlight bathed the stage, revealing Hana, a vision in a flowing white dress, her violin held gracefully under her chin. Beside her, Riko, her usual neatly-kept silver hair styled wild in every direction, held a microphone, her eyes closed. Then, the music began. A familiar melody, once a joyous anthem of their band, Moonlight Prism, flowed through the air. But this rendition was different. Melancholy notes hung heavy in the air, tinged with a bittersweet longing. Tears welled up in Hikari's eyes. This wasn't just music; it was a story, a story of friendship, of dreams lost, and of paths diverged. As they listened, a picture formed in their minds. Hana and Riko, despite becoming high-level adventurers, had chosen to hone the Idol class, a path derided by most for its lack of combat prowess. Yet, here they were, captivating an audience with their music, their voices intertwining in a lament for what could have been. "They haven't changed," Hikari whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "They're still the same Hana and Riko who loved to sing." Aoi gripped Hikari's arm, her voice tight. "But what about us? We lost sight of who we were, chasing a glory that's leaving us hollow inside." The song ended, a wave of applause washing over the venue. As Hana and Riko took a bow, a realization struck Hikari like a bolt of lightning. This was what Sunshine Prism should have done. They should have used their love for music to inspire others, to spread joy even in the face of danger. They had been so focused on raw power, on becoming heroes, that they'd forgotten the core of who they were. A surge of both hope and despair washed over her. Seeing Hana and Riko like this, true to themselves, sparked a flicker of hope for their own future. But the despair... could they use music to mend the rift they'd created with Sakura? A lump formed in Aoi's throat. "We can try," she said, her voice grim. "But I don't know if it'll be enough." Hikari knew she was right. They would face a difficult battle, not against monsters, but against their own pride and Sakura's obsession with becoming a 'legend.' ---- The plush carpet of Sunshine Prism's luxury apartment felt cold beneath Aoi's boots. Hikari, clad in a simple tunic, fiddled with her locket, the air thick with unspoken tension. They faced Sakura, who stood ramrod straight, the self-satisfied smirk finally wiped from her face. "Sakura," Aoi began, her voice firm, "we need to talk." "About what?" Sakura challenged, her usual bravado tinged with a hint of uncertainty. Hikari spoke softly, her voice filled with a quiet sorrow. "This... obsession with the Celestial Temple. It's turning you into someone we don't recognize." Sakura scoffed. "We have to be strong! The Celestial Temple requires the best, the legendary heroes!" "Is that what this is about, Sakura?" Aoi pressed. "Being a legend? Because the way I see it, there's another path to heroism, one that doesn't involve abandoning our friends or ourselves." Sakura's eyes narrowed. "Friends? What are you talking about?" Aoi took a deep breath. "Hana. Riko. Even Shizuka." The air crackled with a tension thicker than any dungeon they'd ever faced. Sakura's face paled, the color draining from her cheeks. "They're... they're all going to be in the raid too," Aoi continued, her voice dropping to a low whisper. "Do you really think they'll welcome you with open arms, after what happened?" Aoi's words hung in the air, a truth so raw it left a metallic tang on Hikari's tongue. Sakura had ostracized Hana and Riko, placed a bounty on Shizuka's head – actions fueled by a distorted sense of chivalry that had shattered their bond. Sakura's bravado crumbled entirely. Her shoulders slumped, the gleaming armor seeming to weigh her down. "I... I didn't think about that," she mumbled, a flicker of doubt flickering in her blue eyes. Aoi's hand tightened into a fist. "Maybe it's not about proving anything to them, Sakura. Maybe it's never been about them. Maybe... maybe it's about proving something to yourself." Hikari stepped forward, her voice filled with a gentle but firm resolve. "This whole knights and princesses fantasy... it's gotten out of hand. We're not some epic fairytale. We're adventurers, Hikari, Aoi, and Sakura. We fight for what's right, because it's the right thing to do, not for some glory or a place in some bard's song. We should be the bards." She reached out, her hand resting on Sakura's arm. "We can still be heroes, Sakura. But it starts with remembering who we are, and who we fight for." Sakura looked down at their intertwined hands, a tear tracing a path down her cheek. Shame and a flicker of dawning comprehension clouded her eyes. Finally, she met their gaze, a single tear rolling down her cheek. "I... I messed up, didn't I?" Aoi nodded, her voice softening. "Yes, Sakura. You did. But it's not too late to fix things." ---- The once-bustling Adventurer's Guild felt draped in a heavy shroud. Gone were the cheerful greetings and boasts of victories. In their place, a tense silence hung thick in the air, punctuated only by nervous murmurs. Faces, once etched with excitement, now wore a grim determination, bordering on despair. "This place feels like a funeral parlor," Aoi muttered, her voice laced with unease. "Everyone's acting like they're signing up for their own demise." Hikari, eyes downcast, nodded solemnly. The memory of the Moonlight Prism concert was fresh in their minds. The melancholic melody Hana and Riko had played echoed in her heart. Sakura, however, seemed to finally be jolted out of her single-minded pursuit of glory. "You're right," she admitted, her voice heavy with realization. "They've all become so focused on clearing the Celestial Temple, they've forgotten why they became adventurers in the first place." A spark of understanding flickered in Aoi's eyes. "That's why Hana and Riko are performing as Moonlight Prism again. They're trying to... inspire them, remind them what they're fighting for." A quiet fire ignited in Sakura's eyes. Shame flickered across her face, a flicker quickly replaced by a newfound determination. She turned to her companions, her voice firm. "We know what we need to do." Aoi raised an eyebrow, a flicker of curiosity replacing her initial apprehension. "And what's that?" Sakura straightened her shoulders, a mischievous glint returning to her blue eyes. "We were idols back on Earth. Sunshine Prism." Hikari's heart jumped. A forgotten melody stirred within her. "You mean..." Sakura grinned. "We were idols, inspiring people with our music. That's what Atheria needs now – not just legendary heroes, but a reminder of the joy, the hope, the reasons to fight for a better tomorrow." Aoi's lips curved into a hesitant smile. "Are you suggesting... we become Idols?" Sakura's grin widened. "We'll take what we learned in Atheria, our adventures, our struggles, and turn them into music that lifts spirits, that ignites the fighting spirit within them! We'll be the J-pop idols Atheria never knew they needed!" The weight of the silence that followed was different this time. It wasn't the silence of despair, but the silence of a new beginning. Hikari and Aoi exchanged glances, a spark of hope igniting in their eyes. ---- The bustling marketplace was a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds. Hikari, clad in a practical pair of traveling pants and a tunic, navigated the throngs of people, her eyes scanning the various stalls. She was on a mission – to find a seamstress skilled enough to craft them proper idol outfits in the image of their past lives on Earth. Suddenly, a flash of bright green and yellow caught her eye. It was Mina, clad in a jester's garb, complete with a floppy hat and oversized shoes. Gone was the black and white habit that had marked her as Sister Mina and the flimsy number she wore as one of Kazuki's collection of girls. "Sister Mina?" Hikari called out, surprised. "Former Sister Mina, I should say." Mina, juggling a handful of brightly colored juggling pins, looked up and grinned. "Hikari! No more Sister, that's for sure. Though, I must admit, the nun outfit did have a certain... intimidation factor." Hikari chuckled. "Intimidation, maybe. But not exactly pious material." Mina's grin faltered slightly. She leaned in closer to Hikari and whispered, "So, are the rumors true? Sunshine Prism is really..." "Going for the Idol class?" Hikari finished, her voice tinged with excitement. "Yup. Inspired by Moonlight Prism's concerts, we figured the best way to help with the whole Celestial Temple mess is to... well, inspire people!" Mina's eyes widened. "That's... actually a brilliant idea! Spreading hope and all that. Beats the heck out of facing a Level 99 dragon any day." Hikari laughed. "Exactly! So, what brings you to the marketplace, jester extraordinaire?" Mina sheepishly tucked a stray juggling pin back into her hat. "Well, I heard about your little... career change, let's say. And let's just say Kazuki's whole 'isekai protagonist harem' schtick wasn't exactly cutting it for me anymore." Hikari raised an eyebrow. "So you ditched the isekai dream?" Mina shrugged. "More like it ditched me. Look, I can't sing, but I can juggle, crack jokes, and make balloon animals with the best of them. Maybe..." she trailed off, a hopeful glint in her eyes, "Maybe there's a place for a jester in your idol group?" Hikari's smile widened. "A jester? Mina, that's perfect! We need someone to keep things light, to break the tension. And who better than a master jester like yourself?" Mina's grin returned, this time brighter than the oversized buttons adorning her vest. "Alright then," she declared, juggling pins with newfound enthusiasm. "Let's turn this whole adventurer apocalypse into the most epic J-pop extravaganza Atheria has ever seen!" ---- Aoi spread out a worn parchment on the rough-hewn table. Fluffy, perched precariously on the edge, tilted her head, her beady black eyes studying the parchment with mock seriousness. "Alright," Aoi said, tracing a finger along the parchment, "according to this, there's a renowned vocal coach who specializes in J-pop right outside the College of the Arts. The fastest way to master a class like Idol would be to receive some good teaching." Sakura, clad in a pair of borrowed practice pants and a loose shirt, slumped down on the chair across from Aoi. "Even the resources seem to have shifted. Before the College popped up we could have found a dozen such coaches here in Zenith City." "Yeah, but Melody Haven practically exploded overnight," Aoi replied, her voice laced with a hint of wistfulness. "Now it's the epicenter of Atheria's cultural scene." Sakura's face hardened. "We're banned from Melody Haven, Aoi. They wouldn't let us in even if we begged." Aoi met Sakura's gaze, her blue eyes unwavering. "Maybe it's time we swallowed our pride, Sakura. We messed up, big time. Maybe it's time we apologized." Sakura scoffed. "We did apologize! Remember that letter I wrote to Hana? Practically groveled on parchment!" Aoi's grip tightened on the map. "A letter wasn't enough, Sakura. We hurt them deeply. And frankly, chasing after some legendary glory while they were trying to inspire others? It doesn't exactly scream remorse." She reached across the table and grasped Sakura's hand. Her voice softened, but the conviction behind her words remained strong. "Apologizing isn't just about words, Sakura. It's about acknowledging what we did wrong, accepting the consequences, and showing genuine remorse. Prostrating ourselves might sound humiliating, but maybe it's what it takes to prove we've truly changed." Sakura yanked her hand back, her face contorted in a mixture of anger and shame. "That's... that's degrading! I can't... I won't beg for forgiveness." Aoi sighed, a deep breath that seemed to carry the weight of their fractured friendship. "Fine," she conceded, her voice flat. "We'll make do with what we have. But remember, Sakura, true heroism isn't just about strength and glory. Sometimes, it's about swallowing your pride and admitting you were wrong." ---- Sakura slammed the apartment door shut behind her, the echo bouncing off the opulent furnishings. Fluffy, sensing her distress, scurried down from her shoulder and perched on the plush velvet bed. The once-vibrant apartment felt like a gilded cage, the silence broken only by the rasp of her own ragged breathing. "It's not fair," she choked out, her voice rough with unshed tears. "Why does Hana get to act so high and mighty now? They're the ones who were messing around with forbidden magic, Fluffy!" Fluffy, the silent confidante, twitched a leg but offered no judgment. Sakura paced the room, frustration knotting her stomach. "They're using necromancy, Fluffy! Talking to the dead, manipulating their souls! How can they call us the bad guys?" Her voice rose, laced with a desperate need for someone, anyone, to understand. "I was right! The School of Necromancy had to be destroyed. It was a nest of evil, a place where the very fabric of life was tampered with!" She stopped, the image of the bustling streets of Melody Haven flashing before her eyes. "But... but then the fire..." A cold dread gripped her. Destroying the school would have ignited the surrounding buildings. The thought of innocent people caught in the inferno was a horrifying counterpoint to her righteous anger. Shame washed over her like a tidal wave. "Was the whole town evil, Fluffy, because they housed that school?" The spider continued her silent vigil. Sakura knew the answer, a bitter truth that gnawed at her. Melody Haven was a vibrant town, a hub of music and art. To condemn it all for the actions of a few was ludicrous – the very thing she'd accused Hana and Riko of doing. Sinking onto the bed, she gathered Fluffy close, burying her face in the creature's soft fur. Tears streamed down her cheeks, hot and silent. "When... when did I become the monster, Fluffy?" she whispered, her voice cracking with despair. ---- Aoi adjusted the worn backpack slung over her shoulder, the weight of their decision a tangible presence in the pre-dawn darkness. Beside her, Hikari fidgeted, her brow furrowed in worry. "Are you sure about this, Aoi?" Hikari whispered, her voice barely audible. "Wouldn't it be better if we waited for Sakura?" Aoi sighed, a flicker of frustration crossing her features. "Maybe. But Sakura... well, Sakura's Sakura. We can't wait around forever for her to see reason." Hikari bit her lip. "But what if she sees this as a betrayal? We're supposed to be a team." "We are a team, Hikari," Aoi countered, her voice firm but gentle. "But there comes a point where loyalty can't blind you to what's right. We messed up, big time. And while Sakura... well, while Sakura’s stuck in her own world, we need to face the consequences of our actions." Aoi knew the pain of the fractured friendship cut deeper for Hikari. Riko had been her closest confidante, their bond forged not in battle but in whispered secrets and shared dreams. Aoi, too, missed Hana's sharp wit and unwavering support. The looming gates of Melody Haven cast long shadows in the pale light. Skeleton warriors, their empty sockets glowing an eerie blue, patrolled the perimeter with an unnerving efficiency. Aoi felt a tremor of nervousness, but it was dwarfed by the need to mend what they'd broken. Just as Aoi steeled herself to approach the gate, a ragged gasp broke the silence. They whirled around to see Sakura, her face flushed and hair a mess, scrambling towards them. "Wait!" she panted, collapsing onto the dusty ground. "I... I heard you were going..." Aoi raised an eyebrow. "Going? Going where, Sakura?" Sakura, catching her breath, fixed them with a determined glint in her eyes. "To Melody Haven. To apologize. It's time we faced the music, all of us." A surprised silence followed. Hikari, ever cautious, looked between Aoi and Sakura, her face a mask of uncertainty. Aoi, however, felt a flicker of relief wash over her. Maybe there was still hope for their fractured friendship. The path to redemption wouldn't be easy, but at least they were all facing it together. "Took you long enough," Aoi said, a hint of a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "We were just about to head in without you." Sakura, a sheepish grin breaking out on her face, reached out a hand. "Then let's go apologize together. As Sunshine Prism, and as friends... hopefully, again." With a newfound sense of unity, the three girls stood before the imposing gates of Melody Haven, ready to face the music. ---- ## Forgiveness Comes With A Price The air in the grand reception room of Melody Haven crackled with tension. Sakura, clad in a simple traveler's tunic, stood before Hana, Riko, and the imposing figure of Shizuka, the legendary Asura. Each breath felt like sandpaper against her throat. Taking a deep breath, Sakura bowed low, her forehead almost touching the polished marble floor. "Hana, Riko, Shizuka," she began, her voice trembling slightly. "We, Sunshine Prism, come before you with hearts full of remorse. We deeply regret our actions, our accusations, and the rift we caused." Aoi and Hikari, standing beside Sakura, mirrored her bow, their shoulders slumped with shame. "We were wrong," Aoi continued, her voice barely a whisper. "We allowed Sakura's... misguided zeal to cloud our judgment. We should have stopped her, should have spoken reason." Hikari choked back a sob. "We are truly sorry for the pain we caused you, especially you, Riko. We were... we were like sisters." A heavy silence descended upon the room. Shizuka, her face an unreadable mask, tilted her head slightly, her six katanas glinting in the morning light. Then, without a word, she turned and walked out, the clatter of her metal boots echoing through the vast hall. Hana, her face a mixture of sadness and empathy, approached Sakura. She gently lifted the girl's chin, forcing Sakura to meet her gaze. Tears welled up in Sakura's eyes, the familiar warmth of Hana's smile a stark contrast to the storm raging inside her. "Sakura," Hana said, her voice soft but firm. "Look at me. You were lost, consumed by a twisted idea of heroism. But true heroes don't need to be legends, they just need to do what's right." Sakura's tears flowed freely now, each sob a release of pent-up guilt. "Hana... I... I can't believe I... I made up all these stories about you, twisted things into something horrible. You... you're still Hana, kind and true." Hana reached out and pulled Sakura into a hug, her touch a soothing balm on the raw wound of betrayal. "We never set out to be heroes, Sakura," Hana whispered. "We were just... us. Using our music to bring joy in a world teetering on the brink. That's all it was." Sakura clung to Hana, her body wracked with sobs. She knew in her heart Shizuka's forgiveness would likely never come, but Hana's acceptance, gentle and unconditional, felt like a lifeline thrown across a treacherous chasm. Pulling back, Hana wiped away a stray tear from Sakura's cheek. "We can't change the past, Sakura," she said. "But we can choose how we move forward." A glimmer of hope flickered in Sakura's eyes. "Can we... can we be friends again?" she asked, her voice barely a whisper. Hana smiled, a beautiful melody radiating from her heart. "We never stopped being friends, Sakura. You just had to find your way back to the music." ---- Riko watched Shizuka's retreating figure disappear down the hallway, the weight of the silence settling heavily upon her. She knew forcing a reconciliation wouldn't work. Shizuka carried the scars of betrayal deeply, and the public bounty placed upon her head was a wound that wouldn't easily heal. Taking a deep breath, Riko followed Shizuka, her footsteps light on the polished marble. She found the Asura standing in the courtyard, gazing out at the bustling town square. The melody of the marketplace formed a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing within Shizuka. Riko approached cautiously, stopping a few paces behind Shizuka. "Shizuka," she began, her voice soft. Shizuka turned, her face an unreadable mask. "Riko," she acknowledged with a curt nod. There was no warmth in her eyes, just a steely resolve. Riko knew better than to push. "They... they offered a sincere apology," Riko said, her voice measured. "Whether you choose to accept it..." "Is not your concern," Shizuka finished, her voice cold. "Sunshine Prism made their choice, and I made mine." Riko understood. Trust, once broken, was a fragile thing to mend. Shizuka was a warrior, a protector, and loyalty and trust was paramount to her. The very idea of an idol putting a bounty on her head, even under misguided circumstances, was a betrayal that ran deep. Silence stretched between them, broken only by the distant shouts and laughter from the square. Riko wasn't here to pressure Shizuka, not yet. But she wouldn't let the friendship die either. "Their apology is for Hana and me too," Riko finally said. "And while I won't speak for them, I can say their regret is genuine." Shizuka remained silent, but a flicker of emotion crossed her features. Perhaps it was acknowledgment, perhaps just a flicker of pain at the reminder of the fractured friendship. "Shizuka," Riko continued, her voice filled with warmth. "We face the Celestial Temple soon. You need strength, and that strength comes from many forms, not just physical power." Shizuka's gaze finally softened, a hint of understanding entering her eyes. "I know," she said, her voice gruff but laced with a touch of vulnerability. Riko smiled, a familiar tune playing in her heart. "Then let's focus on that," she said, extending a hand. "We may not be sisters by blood, but we fight for the same melody." Shizuka stared at Riko's hand for a moment, then slowly raised her own, her expression unreadable. The touch was brief, a feather-light brush of their palms, but it held the promise of a future harmony. ---- The weight of the encounter with Sunshine Prism hung heavy in the air as Hana, Riko, and Shizuka returned to their modest home. The silence stretched, thick with unspoken emotions. Hana finally broke it, her voice tinged with a mixture of sadness and hope. "So, it seems they're serious about... becoming Idols," Hana began, her gaze flickering between Riko and Shizuka. "They want to learn the proper techniques, hone their music, inspire others just like us!" Riko added cheerfully. Shizuka remained stoic, her face an unreadable mask. The memory of the public bounty still burned bright, a painful reminder of their betrayal. "They're not asking for permission," Hana pressed, sensing Shizuka's unspoken disapproval. "They've made their choice. This is exactly why we established the College of the Arts. To teach, to nurture talent, to provide a platform for inspiration." Shizuka finally spoke, her voice low and measured. "I understand their intentions, Hana. But I cannot forget what Sakura did." A pang of sympathy echoed in Riko's heart. "We understand, Shizuka," she said gently. "But trust me, we'll keep a close eye on them. They won't cross your path as long as they're in Melody Haven." Hana reached out, placing a hand on Shizuka's armored arm. The metal felt cold against her skin, a stark contrast to the warmth of their friendship. "Shizuka," she pleaded, her voice soft yet firm. "This is what they want. A chance to learn, to grow, to use their music for good. They came back, humbled and remorseful." Shizuka closed her eyes, the weight of the decision evident in the tension of her shoulders. When she finally opened them, a flicker of resignation flickered in their depths. "They are... your friends, Hana. And you trust them." A wave of relief washed over Hana. "We all do, Shizuka," she said, squeezing Shizuka's hand. "Then," Shizuka continued, her voice still laced with a hint of doubt, "I have to accept their wishes. Just as I have chosen to trust you both." ---- The silence in the shared bedroom was heavy, broken only by the rhythmic creak of the house settling. Hana lay on her back, staring at the flickering candle flame, its meager light dancing across the ceiling. "I'm happy they're back," Hana finally said, her voice barely a whisper. Riko, curled up on her side, sighed. "Me too, Hana. Me too." The reunion with Sunshine Prism had been bittersweet. The joy of seeing Sakura, Aoi, and Hikari again, the apology, the hope for a renewed friendship – it was all there. But so was the sting of Shizuka's newly erected wall, the hurt that flickered in her eyes, a stark contrast to the tentative warmth that had begun to bloom. "It just feels... unfair," Hana continued, her voice laced with frustration. "They get a second chance, but it seems like Shizuka is back to square one." Riko reached out, her hand gently brushing against Hana's. "I know," she said, her voice soft. "Just... Sakura's timing has always been spectacularly bad, hasn't it?" Hana let out a humorless chuckle. "Spectacularly bad. And her judgment. Don't even get me started on her judgment." A moment of silence followed, heavy with unspoken thoughts. Hana wasn't worried about Sunshine Prism's ability to master the Idol class. They were trained J-pop idols; mastering the skills wouldn't be an issue. Her concern, a knot of worry tightening in her stomach, was for Shizuka. "She was letting us in, Hana," Riko said, her voice barely above a murmur. "Slowly, but surely. We were starting to connect, not just as teammates, but as friends." Hana closed her eyes, the image of Shizuka's retreating figure burned into her memory. "And now..." "Now," Riko finished, her voice heavy with resignation, "she's probably outside, practicing until her arms fall off." There was no question in Riko's voice, only a certainty born of shared experience. They both knew Shizuka too well. The sting of betrayal, the fear of vulnerability, it all fueled her unwavering dedication, pushing her to the edge of her physical limits. They knew, no matter how much they tried to spread words of reconciliation that it would only fall upon deaf ears hidden behind a fortress with greater defenses. ---- The oppressive chill of the Abyssal Depths clung to the trio like a second skin. Water dripped incessantly from the cavern ceiling, each drop echoing in the vast chamber. Hana and Riko, clad in enchanted dresses that shimmered faintly in the bioluminescent glow, battled with practiced ease. Their movements were a well-rehearsed dance, their violin and microphone enhancing their buffing abilities. Shizuka, however, was a discordant note in the symphony. Dual-wielding Windblade and River Edge, she wove through a pack of water elementals with reckless abandon. Her strikes were ferocious, lightning-fast blurs that decimated the creatures. Yet, she paid no heed to defense, leaving herself open to counter-attacks that would have crippled a lesser adventurer. Unease gnawed at Hana. "Shizuka!" she called out, her voice echoing in the cavern. "Be careful! You're fighting too recklessly." Shizuka, mid-twirl as she cleaved a water elemental in two, barely glanced at Hana. "Just need these Abyssal Pearls," she grunted, her voice strained. "Almost there." Riko joined Hana's side, her brow furrowed in worry. "Shizuka, that's enough pearls for now. Let's regroup, strategize." Shizuka ignored her, lunging into another pack of water elementals, her movements a whirlwind of barely controlled fury. Hana's heart hammered against her ribs. This wasn't the Shizuka she knew, the stoic and calculating Asura. This was a Shizuka teetering on the edge, fueled by something darker than determination. "Shizuka! Stop!" Hana cried, her voice cracking with desperation. Grasping Shizuka's arm, she forced her to halt mid-attack. Shizuka spun around, her eyes blazing. "What are you doing?" she snapped, her voice barely contained. "You're not yourself!" Hana exclaimed, her voice trembling. "This isn't like you!" Shizuka scoffed. "Just in the zone," she muttered, trying to pull away. "Let go, Hana." "The zone is not a good place to be, Shizuka!" Hana refused to let go. "Please, you're scaring us!" Shizuka froze. For a moment, the fire in her eyes flickered, replaced by a flicker of vulnerability. Then, a steely resolve hardened her gaze. "You made your choice, Hana," she said, her voice quiet. "And I accepted it." "My choice was friendship, Shizuka," Hana pleaded. "Not... not Sakura herself. Look, I don't trust her. None of us do." The words hung heavy in the air, a stark confession. Tears welled up in Hana's eyes. "Shizuka," she whispered, her voice cracking, "you're my sister. I love you. I can't bear to see you like this." Riko stepped closer, placing a hand on Hana's shoulder. "She's right, Shizuka," Riko said softly. "We don't trust her, either. You're right to feel that way. Forgiveness... forgiveness isn't the same as trust." Shizuka stared at Hana, a flicker of emotion crossing her face. Then, with a sigh that seemed to carry the weight of the world, she reached out and gently wiped the tears from Hana's eyes. "Alright," she said, her voice softer than they had heard in a while. "We'll take a break. We'll talk. Then, we finish what we came here to do." The silence that descended upon the cavern after Shizuka's quiet agreement to take a break was thick with unspoken emotions. The air, heavy with the chill of the Abyssal Depths, seemed to press in on them as they settled into a makeshift circle amidst the carnage of slain water elementals. "I don't like seeing you cry, Hana," Shizuka said, her gaze fixed on the glistening tear tracks on Hana's face. Hana sniffled, wiping her nose on her sleeve. "It's just... it hurts, Shizuka. Seeing you like that, pushing yourself so hard..." She trailed off, unable to express the depth of her worry. Riko chimed in. "We were scared, Shizuka. You were reckless. And frankly, Sakura still seems... untrustworthy. She makes poor decisions," Riko finished, her voice echoing in the cavern. Shizuka's expression remained stoic, but a flicker of agreement passed through her eyes. "That aligns with my assessment," she said curtly. "Shizuka... we needed to be honest," confessed Hana. "Accepting their apology but still feeling this way... it felt like a betrayal. But more importantly, not telling you how we really feel... that felt like a failing on our part." Shizuka studied the two women before her, their faces etched with a mixture of worry and loyalty. She understood. Trust, like a fractured bone, took time to heal. And while she had accepted their decision regarding Sunshine Prism, a part of her had yearned for them to confide in her completely. "It wasn't easy," she finally conceded, her voice low. "But honesty is a cornerstone of any bond, even ours." A hesitant smile touched Hana's lips. "We're glad you see it that way, Shizuka." Silence settled again, but this time it was a more comfortable one. Shizuka wasn't ready to utter the word "love". However, the warmth in her gaze spoke volumes. "Perhaps," she began, her voice steady, "accepting you as... sisters wouldn't be too far-fetched." Relief washed over Hana and Riko. Sisterhood, a bond forged in shared experiences, battles fought, and melodies played – a term they could all readily embrace. "Sisters," Hana echoed, her voice filled with a newfound resolve. Riko grinned, her eyes sparkling. "Sisters," she repeated, the word echoing through the cavern. ---- With a final, satisfying cleave from River Edge, the last water elemental dissolved into mist. Hana, chest heaving slightly, leaned against a damp cave wall. "Cleared!" she declared, a smile splitting her face. Riko strolled towards the fallen creature, searching for loot. "Let's hope this time it actually drops an Abyssal Pearl." Shizuka, however, was already kneeling beside the mist-fading creature. With a reverence unusual for someone who wielded such deadly blades, she carefully retrieved a shimmering blue orb. It pulsed faintly with an otherworldly light, the very essence of the watery depths. Hana and Riko exchanged glances, a silent understanding passing between them. Shizuka's devotion to her katanas was well known. They were more than just weapons; they were extensions of herself, each blade imbued with a purpose. The way she handled the Abyssal Pearl mirrored how Hana treated her beloved violin - with respect and awe for the power it held. "There you go," Shizuka murmured, her voice soft. Cradling the pearl, she moved away from the center of the cavern and sat down, her movements deliberate. Hana and Riko watched, captivated, as Shizuka began the intricate ritual of fusing the pearl with River Edge. Runes glowed on the blade as it absorbed the pearl's energy, the water magic within it amplifying the katana's power. Finally, with a flash of cerulean light, the ritual ended. Shizuka held up the upgraded River Edge, its edge gleaming with a newfound intensity. "Much better," she said, her voice filled with satisfaction. Riko groaned playfully. "Oh joy, another round of waterlogged adventurers!" Shizuka chuckled, a rare sound from the stoic Asura. "Just two more pearls, then it's maxed out. You two up for another dip?" Hana grinned. "Always! Besides," she added, glancing at Shizuka, "only a few more levels until we hit the cap. We can't have you surpassing us in every way, now can we?" The playful jab elicited a flicker of amusement in Shizuka's eyes. "Don't worry," she said, her voice dry. "I won't bite." Sheathing both River Edge and Windblade, Shizuka reached for another katana hanging from her back. This one, however, was not the familiar blue of River Edge. Instead, it gleamed with a silvery sheen, the Moonlight Herald, a weapon imbued with the power of the moon. "Next run," she declared, her voice carrying a newfound calm, "we try a different approach." Hana and Riko exchanged another glance, this time filled with hope. The storm in Shizuka's eyes had subsided, replaced by a quiet determination. The melody of their friendship, once discordant, now held a note of promise. ---- ## Can't Pretend Nothing Happened Sunlight streamed through the arched windows of the College of the Arts, casting long shadows across the polished wood floor. Aoi, stretching in the empty ballet studio, spotted a flash of white in the hallway. It was Hana, her silver hair peeking out from beneath a wide-brimmed hat. Aoi's heart jumped. Here was her chance. "Hana!" she called out, her voice ringing across the silent room. Hana froze, then turned slowly, a flicker of something akin to surprise crossing her features. "Aoi," she said, her voice guarded. Aoi jogged over, a wide grin splitting her face. "I saw you from the window. Didn't know you practiced here." Hana glanced down at her practice clothes, clutching the straps of her ballet bag tighter. "Just some light stretches before the concert tonight," she mumbled. "Don't have much time, gotta..." Aoi cut her off, a playful glint in her eyes. "Come on, just a few pliés! Remember how much you struggled with those jetés?" The memory brought a fleeting smile to Hana's lips. Ballet class, long before the rifts and accusations, had been a sanctuary for them. A place of shared struggles, whispered secrets, and an almost telepathic understanding on the dance floor. But the smile vanished as quickly as it appeared. "That was a long time ago, Aoi," Hana said, her voice firm. "I really have to go." Before Aoi could protest, Hana turned and began to walk away. Aoi's grin faltered. This wasn't the Hana she knew. This Hana seemed... closed off. "Hana, wait!" Aoi called, her voice laced with a hint of desperation. She caught up to Hana, falling into step beside her. "Why are you running away?" Hana stopped abruptly, her back stiff. "I'm not running away," she snapped, but her voice lacked conviction. "I'm just... avoiding." Aoi raised an eyebrow. "Avoiding what?" Hana hesitated, then looked around the bustling hallway as if searching for an escape route. Finally, she spotted an empty lecture room and steered Aoi inside, shutting the door behind her with a soft click. "Look, Aoi," Hana began, her voice barely above a whisper, "things have changed. A lot. We can't just pretend it didn't happen, go back to how things were before." Aoi understood. The rift between them was a gaping wound, festering from months of mistrust and hurt. "I know," she admitted, her voice gentle. "But we were close once, Hana. And I... I miss that." Hana's gaze shifted away. "It's not that simple, Aoi," she muttered, her voice thick with unspoken emotions. Aoi's heart sank. The closeness she craved seemed to make Hana uncomfortable, like a familiar melody rewritten into a discordant harmony. Could their old friendship, built on laughter and shared dreams, ever truly recover? ---- A nervous knot tightened in Hikari's stomach as she stood before Riko's dressing room door. It had been a week since their group apology, and while Hana and Sakura seemed to be slowly rebuilding their friendship, Hikari felt a daunting wall between her and Riko. On Earth, Riko had been her senpai, the mischievous upperclassman who'd taken Hikari under her wing. Now, Riko was a renowned singer, a pillar of Melody Haven, and Hikari... well, Hikari was just Hikari, with a giant spider for a companion. Taking a deep breath, she knocked. The door creaked open, revealing Riko in a simple white dress, a stark contrast to her usual stage attire. Her smile faltered slightly when she saw Hikari, but it quickly morphed into something warm and familiar. "Hikari," Riko greeted, her voice cautious but welcoming. "Come in." Hikari stepped into the room, fidgeting with the strap of her satchel. "Hi, Riko. Um, there's someone I want you to meet." From her bag, she gently coaxed Fluffy, her giant spider companion, out onto the plush carpet. Fluffy, surprisingly graceful for her size, scuttled towards Riko, her beady eyes gleaming inquisitively. Riko's lips parted in surprise. "Wow," she breathed, crouching down to examine the creature. "Is that... a spider? But it's... it's huge!" Hikari's chest puffed out a little. "This is Fluffy! She's my familiar, my magical assistant." A flicker of awe lit up Riko's eyes. "A familiar? You became a Sage? That's amazing, Hikari! They're the pinnacle of magic users, you know." Hikari beamed. "Yeah! I can do all sorts of cool stuff now. Want to see?" Before Riko could answer, Hikari's hands crackled with fire magic. "I can make explosions now! See, like this!" She started to raise her hand, a mischievous glint in her eyes. Riko, however, held up a hand, a smile tugging at her lips. "Woah there, firecracker! Maybe not an explosion in the middle of town, okay?" Hikari's face flushed crimson. "Oh, right. Of course. Sorry, I just... I got a little carried away." Riko patted the space beside her on the plush couch. "Sit, Hikari. Let's just... talk. Tell me about this familiar business. And what exactly are you and the others up to these days?" Hikari, with Fluffy nestled comfortably on her lap, settled onto the couch. The ice, at least, seemed to be broken. The conversation flowed easily, filled with a mix of reminiscing about Earth and excited talk about Sunshine Prism's new path as idols. As Hikari spoke, she realized something – Riko hadn't changed as much as she'd initially thought. ---- The cramped dorm room buzzed with nervous energy. Sakura bounced on the edge of her bunk, a wide grin plastered across her face. "This Idol class stuff is a breeze! We'll be singing in stadiums in no time!" Hikari, curled up on the floor with Fluffy nestled beside her, offered a hesitant smile. "Yeah, it's... different. But at least I get to sing with Riko again. It's been nice reconnecting." Aoi, however, sat perched on her bed, arms crossed, a frown marring her usually cheerful features. "Anyone else notice Hana hasn't been around much lately?" Silence descended upon the room. Sakura, her smile faltering, glanced at the empty bunk across from her. "Now that you mention it... I haven't seen Riko either." Aoi's frown deepened. "Maybe they... maybe they haven't forgiven us entirely." Sakura's face fell. "But... but we apologized! We even bowed!" Hikari, stroking Fluffy's soft fur, sighed. "An apology doesn't erase the hurt, Sakura. It's a start, but rebuilding trust takes time." A heavy silence settled over the room, punctuated only by the rhythmic scratching of Fluffy's legs on the worn floorboards. The initial excitement of their new path to master Idol had dimmed, replaced by a sobering realization. Forgiveness might have been offered, but the wounds they'd inflicted ran deep. "So what do we do now?" Sakura finally asked, her voice barely a whisper. Aoi straightened, a determined glint flickering in her eyes. "We keep working hard. We become the best idols we can be. We show Hana and Riko, not just with words, but with our actions, that we've truly changed." Hikari nodded, a flicker of hope kindling in her own eyes. "And maybe... maybe one day, the music will bring us back together. It's the only language we all truly understand." ---- ## Comedy Routine Aoi weaved through the bustling marketplace of Melody Haven, her arms laden with fabric swatches and music sheets. The air thrummed with chaotic energy, a cacophony of bartering merchants and enthusiastic shoppers. Suddenly, a flash of green and yellow caught her eye. There, amidst the throng, stood Mina, the former Sister turned aspiring jester. Her once-monochromatic robes were replaced with a motley collection of mismatched fabrics, accented by oversized buttons and a floppy hat that cast a shadow over her face. "Mina?" Aoi called out, surprised. "What are you doing here?" Mina spun around, juggling pins with practiced ease. "Ah, Aoi! Fancy meeting you here. Didn't know you Sunshine Prism girls were such nomads." She caught all the pins, her expression turning serious. "You guys just up and disappeared from Zenith City one day without telling me." "Blame it on idol training," Aoi replied with a shrug. "All the good performing arts instructors moved out here." Mina's eyes widened. "Training for Idol, huh? You lot are really going through with that class mastery business?" Aoi grinned. "Yup! We've already aced the prerequisite Singer and Dancer classes. It's tough, but we're getting the hang of it." Mina tapped a chin contemplatively. "Hmm, sounds intriguing. Could a jester join the idol fun?" Aoi's smile faltered slightly. "Well... the Idol class is pretty focused on singing and dancing." Mina's grin widened, a glint of mischief in her eyes. "Singing and dancing? Sounds dull. Me? I'm more into theatrics, the unexpected." Before Aoi could respond, Mina held up her hand, silencing her. "Speaking of unexpected," she declared to the gathering crowd, "Witness the comedic genius of Mina the Magnificent!" With a flourish, she snatched four eggs from a nearby vendor's stall, juggling them with surprising dexterity. Aoi watched, impressed, as the crowd gasped and muttered amongst themselves. Suddenly, with a well-practiced stumble, Mina 'tripped' herself and landed flat on her back. The eggs, in a perfectly timed comedic beat, splattered across her face in a yolky mess. The marketplace erupted in laughter. People cheered and clapped, thoroughly entertained by Mina's impromptu performance. Mina, however, remained sprawled on the ground, a sheepish grin plastered on her face as yolk dripped down her chin. Aoi, wiping tears of laughter from her eyes, helped Mina to her feet. "Well," she wheezed, "that was... certainly unexpected." Mina, wiping yolk off her cheek with a handkerchief, chuckled. "See? That's the power of a good jester. Now that's entertainment!" Aoi shook her head, a smile playing on her lips. Maybe Mina wouldn't become a full-fledged idol alongside them, but her unique brand of comedic performance had undeniable charm. ---- ## Field Trip A bus filled with nervous chattering rolled through the dusty plains, the team of large pack animals pulling the wheeled transport cabin at a steady pace. Crammed inside, Sunshine Prism, clad in their practice outfits, sat stiffly amidst a gaggle of students swathed in black robes and identity-concealing skull masks. They were students from the infamous School of Necromancy, attending a joint field trip with the College of the Arts. Sakura, her arms tightly crossed, scowled at the empty seat beside her. "This is ridiculous," she muttered. "Necromancers? Are you kidding me?" Aoi nudged her with a pleading look. "Third tier class, Sakura. Powerful stuff. Let's behave, alright?" Sakura huffed but relented. Dealing with Necromancers wasn't exactly their cup of tea, but Aoi was right. These weren't bumbling first-year mages, they were high-level adventurers looking to expand their ability pool. The uniform robes and skull mask served to keep themselves formally anonymous thanks to the stigma attached to necromancy. The bus finally came to a halt in front of a desolate field, one of the 'practice grounds' where bodies of monsters were deposited, this one a fair distance from Melody Haven. The Necromancer students disembarked, their instructor, a tall woman with fiery red hair, barking orders. Soon, they were chanting strange incantations, the ground around them vibrating with dark energy. Skeletal hands clawed their way out of the earth, bony bodies assembling into a small, but menacing army. "Alright, you would-be Idols, you're up," the red-haired instructor said, her gaze lingering on a bewildered Sakura. "Showtime. You buff them with your song and dance. Don't take too long, because we want to get back to town in time for supper! My husband's serving up prime rib tonight and I want to be there when he finishes!" Sakura bristled. Buff skeletons? With bubblegum pop? This whole situation felt... wrong. Hikari, sensing her friend's unease, nudged her shoulder. "Think of it this way, Sakura. Remember what Hana and Riko said about their journey to becoming Idols? Their performances kept the skeleton guardians of Melody Haven strong." Sakura's frown deepened. Melody Haven's skeleton army, a chilling but necessary defense against bandits or worse. But it still felt... off. "Let's do it," Aoi declared, her voice ringing with a forced cheer. Taking a deep breath, Sunshine Prism launched into their energetic routine. The music pulsated, the dance steps resonated through the graveyard, and an undeniable energy crackled in the air. The skeletal army, initially sluggish, rose taller, their eyes glowing with a newfound, unnatural vigor. As their song ended and the final pose held, a grudging respect flickered in the instructor's eyes. "Not bad, girls. Not bad at all. Teamwork is the foundation that Melody Haven is built upon!" Sakura felt a pang of discomfort, but deep down, a flicker of understanding. This was why Hana and Riko had chosen the path they did. Their music, their performance, was a crucial part of Melody Haven's defense. It wasn't just about catchy tunes and dazzling choreography; it was about bolstering the warriors who stood between them and oblivion. ---- ## Sunshine Prism Reborn The stage lights blinded Sakura momentarily, then she locked eyes with Aoi and Hikari. Their synchronized smiles sparked a grin across her own face. Weeks of grueling practice, endless field trips with Necromancers (still a concept Sakura grappled with), and late nights mastering song after song had culminated in this – their first official test as idols. As the music swelled and they launched into their debut performance, the energy in the College of the Arts' grand hall buzzed with anticipation. They poured their hearts into the performance, their voices soaring in perfect harmony, their dance steps crisp and energetic. By the final, crowd-pleasing pose, the hall erupted in thunderous applause. Backstage, sweat glistening on their foreheads, Sunshine Prism exchanged tired but elated smiles. Sakura, however, couldn't shake off the lingering discomfort from their recent experiences. "They weren't so bad, those Necromancers," she admitted reluctantly, catching Aoi's raised eyebrow. "Disciplined, even. Their rituals had a certain... elegance, to them." Aoi chuckled softly. "Even necromancy can be elegant, Sakura. Especially when it's being used for something good... like defending your town, right?" Sakura's face hardened. "That doesn't mean I like it, Aoi. Having their dark magic be such a fundamental part of Melody Haven... still feels off." Hikari added, "We understand, Sakura. But it is what it is. And maybe our performances can be a... a positive counterpoint to that energy." Sakura sighed, running a hand through her hair. "Fine. But it doesn't make Hana and Riko right for welcoming it with open arms." A triumphant glint sparked in Aoi's eyes. "Speaking of Hana and Riko," she said, nudging Sakura playfully. "Don't you think it's about time Sunshine Prism started mixing things up at the weekend concerts? Moonlight Prism can't be expected to perform every single weekend, can they?" A mischievous smile spread across Sakura's face. "Absolutely not. We're ready to take the town by storm, spread the joy of our music, and maybe... show Hana and Riko what being an idol is truly about." ---- The electric air crackled with anticipation as Sunshine Prism stood backstage, peeking through the velvet curtain at the overflowing crowd in Melody Haven's central square. Tonight was the night of their debut, and the excitement thrummed through them like a live wire. Just before their entrance, Mina, their self-proclaimed "unofficial hype person," took center stage. Clad in her usual motley outfit, she launched into a chaotic comedy routine, complete with juggling, audience interaction, and a healthy dose of self-deprecating humor. Her grand finale involved launching a cream pie at her own face, leaving the crowd roaring with laughter. With a flourish and a wink, Mina bowed, clearing the stage for the main event. As the introductory music soared, a hush fell over the audience. Then, the spotlight slammed down, bathing Aoi, Sakura, and Hikari in a brilliant white light. Dressed in dazzling J-pop idol outfits – Sakura in a vibrant red, Aoi in a cool blue, and Hikari in a sunshine yellow – they launched into a bright, bubbly song from their repertoire. Their choreography was a whirlwind of synchronized steps, playful winks, and high-energy jumps. Every move was designed to radiate joy, a stark contrast to the melancholic rock that Moonlight Prism, Hana and Riko's duo, were known for. The lyrics, sung in sugary-sweet harmonies, spoke of friendship, sunshine, and the power of a positive attitude. At first, the audience seemed a little bewildered. They were used to the raw energy of Moonlight Prism, the way their music resonated with the undercurrent of danger and defiance that ran through life in Atheria. But slowly, something shifted. A smile twitched at a corner of a burly warrior's mouth. A young girl's eyes lit up with pure delight. By the second chorus, the entire square was swaying with the music, claps echoing in time with the beat. Sakura, initially nervous about the audience's reception, couldn't help but be swept away by the infectious energy. She poured her heart into the performance, her voice clear and powerful. A surge of pride surged through her – this was her way of contributing to Melody Haven, not with dark magic like necromancy, but with pure, unadulterated joy. As the final note faded and the stage lights dimmed, the crowd erupted in thunderous applause. Cheers and whistles filled the air, a wave of appreciation washing over them. Sunshine Prism, faces flushed and beaming, took a deep bow, their hearts brimming with a newfound confidence. Backstage, Mina, still sporting a bit of pie on her cheek, grinned at them. "Not bad, Idols!" she exclaimed. "You sunshine-bombed the entire town with feel-good magic!" Aoi chuckled. "Maybe there's a place for both sunshine and moonlight in this city, Mina." Sakura nodded, a newfound respect for the power of their music blooming within her. Maybe Hana and Riko weren't entirely wrong about the importance of music in Melody Haven. But maybe there was room for a different kind of melody, one that brought smiles and laughter as readily as it offered solace. ---- Sunshine Prism, basking in the afterglow of their debut performance, strolled through the bustling marketplace of Melody Haven. Aoi, still buzzing with the positive energy of the crowd, bumped into a familiar figure. "Hey! If it isn't the Idol newcomers themselves!" boomed a boisterous voice. Kazuki, the self-proclaimed isekai protagonist hero, stood before them, his usual gaggle of scantily clad girls fluttering around him like exotic butterflies. "Kazuki," Aoi greeted cautiously. "Fancy seeing you here." Kazuki gave a toothy grin. "Couldn't miss the debut performance of the most talked-about Idols in Atheria! You girls were... dazzling!" His gaze swept over them, lingering a moment too long on their revealing idol outfits. Sakura bristled and Hikari shifted uncomfortably. "Thank you," Aoi replied coolly. "Though, the purpose of idol music isn't just..." she trailed off, searching for the right words. "...visual appeal." Kazuki threw his head back and laughed. "Ah, but of course! But every hero needs a good image, right?" He clapped Aoi on the shoulder, his touch making her flinch. "Tell me, Sunshine Prism, have you girls realized what you're doing? You're living your own grand fantasy, just like me! You're the valiant heroes who will conquer the Celestial Temple with the power of music!" Aoi stared at him, bewildered. "Conquer? The Celestial Temple? What are you even talking about?" Kazuki, surprised by her blank expression, turned to his harem. "Ladies, surely you recognize the plot? Music, the ultimate weapon, defeating a tyrannical empire...?" The girls giggled and shrugged. "Sounds familiar, honey." "Isn't that that one anime...?" A cold dread filled the air. Sakura, Aoi, and Hikari exchanged horrified glances. The truth slammed into them with the force of a fallen meteor. Here they were, Sunshine Prism, supposed paragons of hope and joy, unknowingly echoing the very same delusional isekai fantasy as Kazuki and his harem. Aoi's voice shook with suppressed anger. "We... we're nothing like you, Kazuki! We're not playing out some anime fantasy. We're here to use our music to uplift Melody Haven." Kazuki, oblivious to their turmoil, puffed out his chest. "Well, conquer or uplift, the results are the same! Music shall be your weapon, and victory your song! Just remember..." he leaned in conspiratorially, "...the power of friendship and..." his eyes scanned their outfits suggestively, "...skimpy clothing, is never to be underestimated!" With a dramatic flourish, Kazuki swept his harem away, leaving Sunshine Prism standing in stunned silence. The cheers of the marketplace sounded distant now, replaced by the echo of Kazuki's words. ---- The air crackled with excited chatter as Hana, Riko, and Shizuka stepped through their front door. The melody of a lively J-pop song lingered in the air, an echo of the concert that had just concluded. "Wow, those girls still got it!" Riko exclaimed, a wide grin plastered on her face. Sunshine Prism, having embraced their new roles as Idols of inspiration and joy, had just delivered a performance that mirrored their J-pop stardom back on Earth. Hana, however, remained uncharacteristically subdued. The upbeat music seemed to clash with a disquiet that gnawed at her. "Yeah," she said, her voice lacking in cheer. "Something troubling you, Hana?" Shizuka asked, catching on to Hana's turmoil. Hana sighed, sinking onto the worn sofa. "Now that Sunshine Prism has chosen their path of inspiration, wouldn't it be best for us to focus solely on preparing ourselves? Leveling up, acquiring gear..." Riko agreed, her voice laced with concern. "The raid on the Celestial Temple is going to be rough. Every advantage we can get will be crucial." Shizuka crossed her arms, her expression stoic. "We don't know when the other guilds will be ready. We can't afford to be complacent. And besides," she added, turning to Hana, "Melody Haven still needs its heroes. You two, as Moonlight Prism, are beacons of hope for this city. Your music, even... melancholic rock," she said, the last part laced with good-natured teasing, "lifts spirits and inspires resilience. We all need that." Hana winced slightly at the description of their music, but she couldn't argue. Shizuka was right. The somber melody of Moonlight Prism, born from their past hardships, resonated with the citizens of Melody Haven who faced their own struggles every day. "I understand," Hana said finally, a flicker of resolve returning to her eyes. "It's just... I was hoping for a bit more time, a chance to focus entirely on the raid." Riko nudged Hana playfully with her elbow. "Hey, we can multitask! Between concerts, we train, we grind for experience. We'll be ready, don't worry." ---- ## The Elite of the Elite A furious wind whipped through the Conflux of Wind, buffeting Shizuka's ponytail as she expertly danced between tornadoes conjured by the resident Storm Elementals. Hana, meanwhile, stood amidst the chaos, her violin held high. Instead of its usual mournful melody, a vibrant, fast-paced tune poured from the instrument, its notes shimmering with magical light. The song resonated with a nearby squad of elite skeleton warriors, their bony frames crackling with newfound energy. Across from Hana, Riko belted out a powerful ballad into her enchanted microphone. The words, infused with magic, wove intricate patterns in the air, forming protective barriers around another group of skeletons as they clashed with a swirling vortex. "You think these wind elementals appreciate a good rock melody?" Riko yelled over the howling wind, sweat dripping down her face. Hana, her brow furrowed in concentration, gave a wry smile. "Probably not. But it keeps our skeleton crew motivated!" "Speaking of motivation," Riko continued, a mischievous glint in her eye, "imagine holding a concert in this very dungeon! We could wear miniskirts and see how many fans we could convert." Hana burst out laughing, the memory of a particularly chaotic concert from their past flashing before her eyes. "Remember that time we blew industrial-strength fans up our skirts on Earth? Gained a whole lotta devoted fans that day, wouldn't you say?" Their laughter echoed through the cavern, punctuated by the clash of bone against elemental fury. Suddenly, a blinding light engulfed Hana and Riko. The music sputtered out, replaced by a chorus of celebratory chimes. Confused, they looked at each other, then down at a notification screen hovering in their field of vision. Level Up! Hana has reached Level 99! Level Up! Riko has reached Level 99! The weight of the achievement settled upon them. Level 99. They were officially among the elite of the elite, adventurers whose names whispered of legend. A sense of awe washed over them, momentarily silencing the howling of the wind. "Whoa," Riko breathed, her voice filled with a mixture of disbelief and exhilaration. "We did it, Hana. Level 99." Hana clasped Riko's hand, a surge of pride and accomplishment filling her heart. "We did," she echoed, a soft smile gracing her lips. They had come a long way from the lost idols on a strange world. Through hardship and struggle, they had honed their skills, forged bonds of friendship, and now, they stood poised at the precipice of facing the darkness that threatened Melody Haven. The wind continued to howl, but now it seemed to carry a new melody – the melody of a challenge accepted. With a newfound resolve, Hana raised her violin once more. The mournful tunes of their struggle returned, but now they were laced with a hopeful melody, a promise of a future where darkness would be vanquished by the unwavering light of their music. The miniskirts would have to wait for another occasion. Right now, they had a world to save. =========================================================================== This story is written with heavy AI assistance. This one was a little difficult to pull off since I was writing the Sunshine and Moonlight parts separately, so when they intersected I had to do some trickery to get both parallel stories on the same page. The known raid dungeons: Obsidian Citadel (Level 60) ~ World of Warcraft horror laboratory raids like Blackwing Lair/Descent or Abberus Astral Observatory (Level 70) ~ otherworldly constructs, probably even robots Tomb of the Fallen King (Level 80) ~ the obligatory necropolis Lair of the Dragon Emperor (Level 90) ~ the obligatory dragon lair Celestial Temple of Atheria (Level 99) ~ can't talk about this yet There's a possibility there were more than one raid dungeon in the 'lower brackets', but it's clear by Tomb of the Fallen King the raid dungeons were singular. Normal dungeons are running on a rough rule that there's a new set every five levels, probably around up to four. The last set, the Level 95 dungeons, are themed around the four elements, hence their names: Conflux of Wind (nominally named after the Heroes of Might and Magic III town), Abyssal Depths (World of Warcraft cancelled Cataclysm raid dungeon), Stone Heart (World of Warcraft Stonecore riff), and Magma Tanker (blatant shout-out to Bucky O'Hare). I estimate places like the Blighted Keep and Opera of the Damned were part of the Level 75 bracket, and the Whispering Caverns Level 65 or 70 bracket (not really clear about this). While I'm playing fast and loose with the quality of item drops, I would surmise 'regular' loot drops are good for 15-20 levels from the dungeon where they dropped, where a legendary weapon would be good for double that, so 30-40 levels. In essence, the Obsidian Annihilator, which was obtained from a Level 60 dungeon, reaches its upper limit of usefulness at the Celestial Temple, but things like Windblade and River Edge would nominally stop being useful before that without enhancement (River Edge came out of a Level 75 dungeon and Windblade came out of one lower than that; their true value lies in the fact that, in Atheria, katana are not 'light weapons' you can usually dual wield, but with these two you can and is why it's one of Shizuka's defining visages as an Asura). ~ Razorclaw X