The past timeline - Three years before Ryoto and team rescues Aem and friends. ❤️ - represented by this symbol

The present timeline - Ryoto and team rescues Aem and friends. 🟥 - represented by this symbol

The future timeline - one year after Ryoto and team had rescued Aem and friends. ♦️ - represented by this symbol

***

❤️...

Ishoya stood at the threshold of the portal, anxiety etched across her face as she watched her companions disappear one by one into the shimmering vortex. Konosa noticed her hesitation and gently tugged at her sleeve, breaking her out of her trance.

"Sister, let's go," Konosa urged softly, concern evident in his voice.

Ishoya managed a faint smile. "Yeah, go on," she replied, trying to sound reassuring even as her gaze flickered nervously over her shoulder.

"Wait! Hey! Stop." A sudden shout halted the group halfway through the portal's threshold. Confusion spread among those who had already crossed as they turned back to see what had caused the commotion.

"Remeshi...?" Konosa uttered, hope and relief mingling in his voice. And there he was, emerging from the shadows beyond the portal, with Ayeta slung over his back.

"What the hell, guys? Were you going to leave without me?" Remeshi's voice cut through the tension, a mix of teasing and genuine concern.

"Remeshi-nii!" Remeni exclaimed joyously as she bounded towards him. His eyes softened at the sight of her, a reassuring smile gracing his lips.

"Re-chan..." Ayeta stirred on Remeshi's back, blinking groggily as he realized his predicament. "You up? You're heavy, you know," Remeshi remarked with a chuckle, patting Ayeta's back as he crouched down to let him climb off.

"Re-chan... I... I don't know what to say..." Ayeta began tentatively, guilt weighing heavily in his voice.

"Hmm. I can't say it's alright. Because it clearly is not," Remeshi replied with a rare seriousness, his gaze unwavering as he studied Ayeta's troubled expression.

"I-I am really sorry... That doesn't even cut an inch of what I did though..." Ayeta confessed, his words laden with remorse.

"Ayeta-san, will you make up for it?" Remeshi's tone softened, a glimmer of hope seeping into his voice.

"I'll try..." Ayeta nodded earnestly, determination flickering in his eyes.

"What got into you?" Remeshi pressed gently, wanting to understand his friend's turmoil.

"I-I was..." Ayeta hesitated, his thoughts racing.

"You found out the war was against you and the whole of the demon species is against you as well, and that took a toll on you...?" Remeshi's voice held empathy as he pieced together the puzzle.

Ayeta nodded silently, unable to meet Remeshi's gaze.

"Ayeta-san... Are you really a demon? What demon gets so blue?" Remeshi interrupted the heavy silence, attempting to lighten the mood with a playful jab.

"I... ah..." Ayeta struggled to find words, grappling with his conflicting emotions.

"Never mind all this. Let's go back to our place and save the others," Remeshi declared, his voice firm yet comforting as he took charge once more.

With a collective nod, the group resumed their journey through the portal, leaving behind the uncertainties and burdens of the past moments. Ishoya's eyes, though still tinged with worry, reflected a glimmer of hope as they stepped into the known, united once more in their resolve to face whatever lay ahead.

[Location: Fujima's house.
The present (After Kiomonozo mission, with Aem and friends)
Time: evening
Date: ---]-🟥

"Sensei! How did Remeshi save Ayeta from that volcano?" Sanasubi asked as she interrupted the story, her words laden with child like curiosity.

"Oh. I am not sure, Sanasubi - kun. He never told me. Or any of us. It's a secret between him and himself," Fujima replied calmly, his eyes fixed across the arms of the window.

"What? Not even Ayeta - sama?" Sanasubi attempted another question pulling Fujima's gaze back on her.

"No. I guess not even him," he nodded as he lay bare his words.

[The past. (Three years before the Kiomonozo mission)
Location: Kamakura.
Outside the sword master headquarters.
Time: 9:43 p.m]-❤️

On the expansive grounds of the Sword Master Headquarters, a tranquil evening shattered into chaos as Yamato, the renowned sword master, found himself thrust into a sudden battle. His usually serene residence was now besieged by a horde of demonic creatures, their vicious assault tearing through the sturdy doors with unnerving ease.

"What the hell is going on?!" Yamato's voice rang out above the clamor of battle as he deftly parried a demon's slashing magic, his sword gleaming in the sunlight. His mind raced to comprehend the unexpected attack that had breached the sanctity of his home and training grounds.

"Master!" Yuriko, one of Yamato's most promising disciples, appeared at his side, her expression a mix of concern and determination. "What even is going on?" she asked, her voice strained with urgency as she fended off an aggressive demon attempting to flank them, just barely.

"I don't know," Yamato replied tersely, his brow furrowed in frustration. "Just defend yourself," he gestured towards the inner chambers where the rest of his younger disciples and unarmed wards were sheltered, "and when you get the slightest chance, run away. You shouldn't have come here, Yuriko. Tch."

Despite his admonition, Yamato couldn't hide the underlying pride in his voice at Yuriko's steadfast resolve. She had grown under his tutelage, her skills as sharp as the blade she wielded. Yet, this unforeseen assault tested even the most seasoned warriors among them.

Outside, the clash of steel against demonic sinew echoed across the training grounds. Yamato's disciples, a mix of veterans and novices alike, fought with a desperation born from loyalty and training. Each strike of their blades was a testament to their dedication to protect their revered master and each other.

Yamato himself moved with the precision and grace of a true master, his sword a deadly extension of his will. He darted between adversaries, assessing weaknesses and exploiting them with calculated strikes. Yet, for every demon felled, two more seemed to take its place, their numbers overwhelming and seemingly endless. The only advantage they had truly going for themselves was the fact that they were actually able to fend the demons off.

This truth was quite surprising in itself but finding out the answers for that was not the main concern at the moment and so Yamato slid it to the side and although Remeshi and the team who are currently not with them know the real reason behind this discovery, they couldn't relay it due to their absence.

Amidst the chaos, a brief lull in the onslaught allowed Yamato to shout orders to his disciples. "Fall back to the inner sanctum! Protect the young ones," he commanded, his voice cutting through the din of battle. With a coordinated effort, they withdrew, covering each other's retreat with practiced efficiency.

As they regrouped inside the fortified walls of the headquarters, Yamato's mind raced with questions. Who had unleashed this demonic horde upon them? Why now, and what were they after? The tranquility that had once enveloped their training grounds now felt like a distant memory, replaced by the palpable tension of impending danger.

[IEA. School grounds]-❤️

On the sprawling grounds of the International Elite Academy (IEA), an unprecedented disturbance shattered the usual tranquility. The teams found themselves amidst a chaotic scene as demons, unnaturally fierce and numerous, appeared seemingly out of nowhere.

"Are demons supposed to be here? Where did so many come from anyway?" Hotaru's voice carried a mix of disbelief and concern as he deflected an incoming attack with precise agility.

"How am I to know, Hotaru?" Souta responded tersely, his attention focused on scanning their surroundings for any signs of vulnerability in their defenses.

Beside them, Minato, another member of Team Two, joined in the conversation, his brow furrowed in deep thought. "It must have something to do with Konosa and Ayeta. I am sure of it," he mused aloud, piecing together fragmented clues in his mind.

The commotion drew the attention of Hideo from Team Three, who approached with a mixture of curiosity and apprehension. "Hey, are you saying they sent demons to kill us?" Hideo's voice cut through the chaos, his tone edged with suspicion.

"Chill, man. It's just a theory," Detsu from Team One interjected, stepping in to diffuse the tension. Most of his tone was definitely a mix of taunt for Konosa and his team and possibility of the theory but only Hideo could read this. To others, Detsu looked like a simple pillar of diffusing the situation, learning from his past mistake.

"You all are giving them a hard time just because they have three trainers mentoring them," Hideo retorted, his frustration evident as he gestured towards the ongoing battle.

"What? Are you friends with them, Hideo-kun?" Oda from Team Three chimed in, his skepticism apparent as he observed Hideo's impassioned defense.

"We're classmates. Don't get ahead of yourself," Hideo replied curtly, his gaze narrowing slightly. "But I acknowledge their power and suggest you stay quiet if you can't respect strength."

The exchange highlighted the tension and division among the academy's students in the face of this unexpected threat. The presence of demons on school grounds was unprecedented, raising questions about security breaches, alliances, and hidden motives.

Across the academy's grounds, teams coordinated their efforts, utilizing their training and unique abilities to push back against the relentless tide of demonic adversaries. Spells crackled through the air, swords clashed with unearthly claws, and strategic maneuvers unfolded amidst the chaos. The academy, once a bastion of learning and competition, now echoed with the sounds of battle and the shouts of determined students fighting for their lives.

In the midst of this turmoil, Hotaru, Souta, Minato, Hideo, Detsu, Oda, and countless others navigated the uncertain terrain, each grappling with their own fears and uncertainties.

[SA main building. School grounds]-❤️

Inside the grand halls of Starlight Academy's main building, chaos reigned supreme. The once pristine corridors were now marred by shattered doors and debris, remnants of a violent intrusion that had caught everyone off guard. Miu, a spirited member of Team Four, voiced the collective astonishment and fear that gripped the students.

"This is insanity! Why are so many of them here?" Miu's voice echoed through the hallway, her eyes wide with disbelief as she parried a demon's attack with practiced precision. Her classmates, Keiko and Hannako, stood close by, their expressions mirroring her concern.

"Oya-chan, Miyazono-chan, and even Remeni-sama are not here..." Hannako noted with a furrowed brow, her mind racing with worry for their absent friends.

"Wonder if they know about this..." Keiko mused aloud, her voice tinged with unease as she scanned their surroundings for any sign of their missing comrades.

The atmosphere inside the academy, typically a sanctuary of learning and camaraderie, was now fraught with tension and danger. The demons, relentless and aggressive, seemed to have breached the academy's defenses with alarming ease, their motives unclear yet their presence undeniably hostile.

Outside, through shattered windows and breached doors, glimpses of the academy's once serene grounds revealed scenes of havoc and destruction. The serene gardens and practice fields, where students once honed their abilities under the watchful eyes of their mentors, now served as battlegrounds where survival and strategy intertwined in a desperate dance.

[Location: HA main building]-❤️

Inside the Nurse's Office at Hillaria Academy, Abe Kaho sat huddled behind her desk, her usually calm demeanor marred by a palpable sense of unease. Outside, the once peaceful school grounds buzzed with an unnatural energy. The sounds of chaos filtered through the closed windows, carried on the breeze that rustled the leaves of the ancient trees that lined the academy's pathways.

"This is super weird. I have locked myself in my office," Kaho murmured to herself, her voice a whisper against the unsettling backdrop of distant shouts and the occasional crash of something breaking. Her office, typically a sanctuary where students sought solace and healing, now felt more like a fortress in the face of an unknown threat.

"Don't worry, ma'am. They are still on the school grounds," Atsu Ritsuko reassured her through the crackling phone line. Ritsuko was a reliable presence, known for her calm under pressure and unwavering dedication to maintaining order within the academy's walls.

"But, ma'am-" Kaho began hesitantly, her concern evident in the way her fingers clenched around the receiver.

"For a nurse like you, you shouldn't worry much," Ritsuko interrupted gently, her voice carrying a soothing cadence that momentarily eased Kaho's anxiety.

"Okay..." Kaho conceded reluctantly, though her mind continued to race with worries for her students and colleagues who were undoubtedly caught up in whatever turmoil had befallen Hillaria Academy.

Outside, the once serene campus was now a battlefield. Students and faculty alike scrambled to defend themselves against an unexpected invasion of the demons, their presence both terrifying and inexplicable, had descended upon the academy with a ferocity that left no corner untouched by their malevolent influence.

In the distance, Kaho could hear the muffled sounds of students shouting commands, spells being cast, and the clash of weapons against the demonic forces. It was a scene straight out of a nightmare.

Inside the nurse's office, Kaho gripped the edge of her desk, her eyes darting nervously towards the door as if expecting it to burst open at any moment. The office itself was a small sanctuary within the larger storm raging outside-a place where injured students would usually find comfort and healing. Now, it served as her refuge, a barrier against the unknown dangers that prowled the academy's corridors.

Minutes stretched into eternity as Kaho waited, each passing second punctuated by the distant sounds of the ongoing battle. She felt a pang of guilt for not being out there with her students, offering her medical expertise and reassurance in their time of need. Yet, Ritsuko's words echoed in her mind, a reminder that her role as a nurse demanded caution and protection, both for herself and those who might seek her aid once the chaos subsided.

[Sword master headquarters
On the other side of the ground]-❤️

On the eastern grounds of the Sword Master Headquarters, away from the immediate fray where Yamato and his students defended their stronghold, two figures moved with practiced agility amidst the looming threat of demonic adversaries. Jura and Kaito, both esteemed masters in their own right, exchanged terse words as they navigated the shifting battlefield.

"Master Jura, are your students at school?" Kaito's voice cut through the tension, his eyes scanning the horizon for any signs of their foes' movements.

"Yes, they indeed are," Jura confirmed with a nod, his expression grave as he parried a demon's relentless assault. His thoughts momentarily flickered to his disciples, hoping they were safe amidst the chaos that had descended upon their once peaceful training grounds.

"And yours, Kaito?" Jura inquired, his tone tinged with concern as he observed Kaito's fluid movements, each strike calculated and precise.

"Yeah... but I think these people are there as well," Kaito replied grimly, his attention split between defending against the encroaching demons and contemplating the safety of his own students.

"Hmm..." Jura murmured thoughtfully, his mind racing with strategies to protect not only himself and Kaito but also their respective charges. The presence of demons within the headquarters' walls was unprecedented, hinting at a coordinated attack that aimed to disrupt the very foundation of their training and discipline.

Around them, the battlefield echoed with the clash of steel against demonic sinew, spells arcing through the air in bursts of light and fury. The eastern grounds, usually reserved for rigorous training and contemplation, now bore witness to a battle that tested the mettle and resolve of all who fought under the banner of the Sword Master Headquarters.

As Jura and Kaito continued their dance of combat, their movements synchronized in a silent testament to years of disciplined training, they remained vigilant. Each step taken, each strike delivered, was not only a defense against the immediate threat but also a calculated maneuver to gain ground and rally their forces.

[Meanwhile, in the forest close to Hillaria Academy, Remeshi and team along with the others]-❤️

Remeshi, deeply concerned about the escalating danger posed by Ayeta's uncontrollable demons, turned to him with a question borne out of urgency.

"Can you control them to go back?" Remeshi's voice held a note of hope, tempered by the grim reality of Ayeta's response. The young demon shook his head solemnly, his expression troubled.

"I can force them to blindly follow a single order, and that order is to 'finish all species'. No matter what happens, the demons will not stop at anything before completing their command," Ayeta explained gravely, his eyes betraying a mix of guilt and helplessness.

"My queen, we must go back to our land," Heiki insisted, his tone tinged with concern. Scarlett turned to face him, her expression a mask of composure despite the urgency in Heiki's words.

"Why, Heiki-kun? Has the fire extinguished?" Scarlett's voice was calm, yet beneath the surface, a sense of unease simmered.

"Not yet, my queen. Hence we should hurry," Heiki replied, his gaze steady as he awaited Scarlett's decision.

"I see. Are my people struggling?" Scarlett queried, her mind already contemplating the delicate balance between duty and compassion.

"No, my queen. What do you suggest, your highness?" Heiki deferred respectfully, awaiting Scarlett's command.

"Hmm... Let's stay here for a bit. Oya needs us after all," Scarlett decided finally, her voice carrying a hint of resolve. Oya scoffed at Scarlett's words as they stealthily made their way to Fujima's abode.

"Gaaah!" Konosa cried out, stumbling over a stone and inadvertently revealing their hiding spot. His words spurred urgency among the group as they realized their precarious position.

"What choice do we have? Let's go," Konosa stated matter-of-factly, his voice a mix of resignation and determination as he prepared to face the encroaching threat head-on.

In the midst of the unfolding chaos, Remeni unveiled her weapon-a glowing green rope that crackled with magical energy. As she engaged one of the demons in a fierce battle, her movements were fluid and precise, each swing of the rope a calculated attempt to gain the upper hand.

The demon retaliated with smoky, ethereal hands that surged towards Remeni, intent on ensnaring her. With a nimble leap, she evaded the grasping appendages, her grip on the rope unwavering as she countered with swift and decisive strikes.

"Ayeta, dude, I've been meaning to ask. Those hands-are they your magic?" Konosa's voice broke through the tension, his curiosity piqued as he observed the ongoing skirmish.

"Well, yeah..." Ayeta responded hesitantly, his attention divided between Konosa's minor inquiry and the escalating battle around them.

"But it's weaker than what it was back on the demon land," Konosa noted perceptively, prompting Ayeta to explain.

"That's because I am here now. The further I am from the demon land, the weaker the magic gets," Ayeta clarified, his voice tinged with regret at the limitations imposed by his current location.

"Oh. How so?" Konosa pressed further, his desire for understanding evident in his tone.

"I cast the magic on them when I was on the demon land. That's why. This spell works best when the caster is in the place where they cast it," Ayeta elaborated, his explanation shedding light on the intricacies of demonic magic.

As Ayeta and Konosa conversed, their words mingled with the sounds of battle and the distant commands of their companions. Remeni continued her duel with unwavering determination, her rope becoming a formidable weapon against the demon's relentless assault.

"Carla! Break jinx!" Oya's sudden call rang out, cutting through the chaos like a clarion call. The pink dragon, Carla, emerged from her glass jar with a flurry of pink flames, swirling in the sky with aggressive intent.

"Carla... has pink flames?" Grace asked in astonishment, her eyes wide with curiosity.

"Oh yeah. The flames depend on the color of the dragon. Every dragon has the normal flames and, apart from that, the other one," Oya explained hastily, her attention split between directing Carla and keeping a watchful eye on their surroundings.

As Carla's fiery display illuminated the battleground, the group prepared for the next phase of their desperate struggle.

As the battle against the relentless demons raged on, dusk descended upon the battlefield, casting long shadows that stretched across the torn landscape. Remeni, amidst the chaos, found herself in a dire situation. Her once potent weapon, the glowing green rope, lay abandoned on the ground beside her as she crumpled in pain.

"Remeni!! Are you okay?!" Konosa's voice cut through the din of battle, filled with concern as he rushed to her side. Remeni winced, her breath coming in shallow gasps as she struggled to sit up, her body bearing the weight of both recent injuries and the memories of past wounds from their time in the demon land.

"Senpai, Remeni was already hurt back in the demon land like us, and now this... we need to get her treated," Miyazono spoke urgently, her voice tinged with worry as she surveyed the scene around them.

Fujima, his jaw clenched in frustration, surveyed their surroundings with a critical eye. The demons had hemmed them in, leaving no apparent escape routes. Just as despair threatened to overwhelm them, a sudden change in the atmosphere halted the battle. The sky darkened further, and a rumble of thunder reverberated ominously overhead.

"What... what is happening?" Oya's voice carried from above, her perch atop her dragon offering a vantage point over the frozen battlefield. To their astonishment, the demons ceased their onslaught, frozen in place as if caught in a time-stilled tableau.

"Did we... did we do this?" Grace murmured, her gaze flickering between the motionless demons and her bewildered companions.

Before anyone could formulate an answer, portals materialized behind the immobilized demons, pulling them in with an irresistible force. The eerie silence that followed was punctuated only by the fading echoes of their disappearance.

"What...? What just happened...?" Konosa's voice trembled with disbelief as he surveyed the now vacant battlefield.

"I... have not the slightest clue," Grace replied in a daze, her thoughts racing to comprehend the inexplicable turn of events.

Amidst the confusion, a chilling realization struck Konosa. "Wait a second. Where is Remeshi?" His question hung in the air, unanswered as the group frantically scanned their surroundings, calling out his name in growing desperation.

Their search yielded no trace of Remeshi. As worry and exhaustion weighed heavily upon them, Oya, overcome by the stress and uncertainty, collapsed unconscious. Miyazono, her panic palpable, cried out for help, her voice a desperate plea in the gathering darkness.

In a swift display of camaraderie, Konosa took charge, gently lifting Oya onto his back while Miyazono, with all the care she could muster, supported Remeni. Together, they hurried towards Fujima's nearby house, their steps quickened by a shared urgency to find safety and attend to their injured comrades.

Inside Fujima's house, the atmosphere was one of tense calm as Amash sprang into action upon their arrival. With practiced efficiency, she prepared a basin of water and gathered clean white towels on a black tray, her movements precise and purposeful.

"Konosa-niisama," Amash called out softly, her words a reassurance of readiness as she tended to Oya and Remeni's injuries. Konosa acknowledged her with a nod before quietly withdrawing, sliding the Shoji screen shut behind him to give the girls privacy.

Inside the room, Amash carefully removed Oya and Remeni's shirts, her gentle touch and meticulous attention a testament to her skill as she cleaned the blood from their wounds. Miyazono, meanwhile, discovered a pair of green kimonos in a nearby wardrobe, swiftly fetching them to replace the bloodied clothing.

As Amash applied bandages to cover their wounds, time seemed to blur for the group. They had lost track of how long they had been there, consumed by the urgency of their task and the weight of their worry for Remeshi.

Once the girls were cleaned and dressed in the fresh kimonos, Amash and Miyazono quietly exited the room, closing the Shoji behind them with a soft click. Outside, in the main room of Fujima's house, the atmosphere was subdued.

The table was set with food, a gesture of hospitality and comfort in the face of uncertainty. Konosa and Fujima sat opposite each other, their expressions somber yet determined. As Miyazono and Amash entered, the usual joviality and camaraderie that defined their group were conspicuously absent.

Silently, they took their places at the table, each lost in their own thoughts. The food remained untouched, the chopsticks laid aside. Conversation hung in the air, unspoken words and unvoiced fears casting a pall over their gathering.

They sat there, united yet apart, grappling with the aftermath of battle and the unanswered questions that loomed over them. In the stillness of the room, the flickering light of a single candle cast shadows upon their faces, highlighting the weariness etched into their features.

Outside, the night deepened, its quietude a stark contrast to the chaos they had endured.

After the silent and somber dinner, which ended without anyone having truly finished their meals, Amash rose from her seat with a sense of quiet determination. She moved gracefully towards Oya's room, her steps barely making a sound on the wooden floor.

"Oya-chan, may I come in?" Amash asked softly, her voice carrying the weight of her concern.

"Sure," came the reply from within, faint and tinged with weariness.

Amash gently pushed the Shoji door open and slipped inside, closing it behind her with a delicate touch. She approached Oya, who lay on a futon, her body bearing the heavy bandages. Kneeling beside her, Amash folded her knees and looked at Oya with an expression of pity and worry.

"You don't have to look at me like that," Oya said, her voice strained.

"I know... why did you get so wounded?" Amash's tone was a mixture of genuine concern and curiosity.

"Who knows. Maybe fate," Oya replied with a shrug, her attempt at nonchalance undermined by the pain etched on her face.

"How...?" Amash pressed, not satisfied with the vague answer.

"Fighting Ayeta and his demon friends wasn't exactly an easy task," Oya said, wincing slightly.

"That is not what I meant..." Amash's voice grew softer, more probing.

"Hm?" Oya looked at her, a flicker of confusion crossing her features.

"Remeni got wounded when her rope broke apart. You were standing on the dragon's back, right?" Amash asked, her eyes narrowing slightly.

"Yes... I was-"

"So then, Oya-neesama, how did you get wounded so badly that you fainted?" Amash's question was pointed, her gaze intense.

"What are you trying to say, Amash?" Oya's voice held a note of defensiveness.

"We didn't treat Remeni before you," Amash stated, her tone calm but insistent.

"That's not my problem-"

"Because you fainted," Amash interrupted, her words hanging heavily in the air.

Oya's silence was telling.

"How come you fainted when you were-"

"You don't know, but we were all injured back in the palace as well," Oya cut in, her voice sharp.

"You all?" Amash echoed, leaning in slightly.

"Yeah-"

"Then the others are wounded?" Amash asked, her eyes widening.

"They are... I guess..." Oya admitted reluctantly.

"I am guessing they treated themselves then or something... why didn't you?" Amash's tone was accusatory now, her suspicion growing.

"Well, I don't think I could think about that," Oya said, her voice faltering.

"I see. So, who are you really?" Amash's question was direct, her gaze unwavering.

"Excuse me? Amash, you have been talking in circles ever since you came. What do you expect from me?" Oya's defensiveness returned, but there was a hint of desperation in her eyes.

"Answers," Amash replied simply.

"For what?" Oya's voice rose slightly, a note of panic creeping in.

"Who are you?" Amash's tone was cold, demanding the truth.

"Oya Hashiro. What kind of a question-"

"No. No, you are not," Amash interrupted, her voice firm.

"What are you-"

"You are not Oya-neesama. Who are you?" Amash repeated, her eyes boring into Oya's.

"What do you-"

"You are that Heiki guy, right?" Amash's accusation was sharp and precise.

"How do you know Heiki?" The person lying on the futon tensed, their eyes narrowing suspiciously.

"Haha. You told me about him," Amash said with a cold smile.

"What? Why would I-"

"Haha... aren't you already exposed, much? I don't think this is working either way, Heiki-nii," Amash said, her voice steady and confident.

"Seems like you are a smart kid. Amash, was it? Now that you know, what do you plan on doing?" Heiki, now fully revealed, asked with a smirk.

"I don't know. What are you planning on doing? Where is Oya-nee?" Amash's voice trembled slightly with fear and determination.

"Haha... looking for friends already, are we?" Heiki taunted, his eyes gleaming with malice.

"Is this a thing in your country? Kidnapping and hurting people so you can prove yourself right?" Amash's voice was filled with righteous anger, her eyes blazing with defiance.

Heiki's smirk widened, but he didn't respond immediately. The room fell into a tense silence, the weight of the confrontation pressing down on both of them. Amash's heart pounded in her chest, but she refused to back down, her resolve firm as she faced the imposter who had taken the place of her friend.

Their voices echoed down the hallways of Fujima's home, drawing the attention of everyone nearby. Hearing the raised voices, the group of friends, accompanied by Fujima, quickly made their way to Oya's room, concern etched on their faces.

"Amash, what's wrong?" Konosa asked, worry evident in his tone.

"Master, Oya-nee has something to say," Amash replied, her eyes never leaving the figure lying on the futon.

Fujima stepped forward, his brows furrowed in confusion. "What? What is it, Oya-kun?"

A derisive snort escaped from the person lying before them. "Tch. Hah... this is ridiculous. Alright, old man, I ain't no Oya. Now, if you'll excuse me."

"What? What is wrong with you?" Fujima demanded, his voice tinged with disbelief.

"That is not Oya-nee, Master. She-no, he-is Heiki," Amash declared, her voice steady despite the tension in the room.

"Heiki? You mean that boy from earlier? Who had come with Scarlett?" Fujima asked, his eyes narrowing in recognition.

"Yes, it's him-" Amash began, but she was cut off by a furious shout.

"HEY! YOU OLD MAN! HOW DARE YOU CALL THE QUEEN BY HER NAME?" Heiki, still in Oya's form, glared at Fujima with absolute hatred burning in the eyes that no longer seemed to belong to Oya.

A new voice cut through the tension. "She is the queen of your land, not ours." The group spun around to find Remeshi standing idly behind them, his presence unexpected.

"Remeshi? Where did you come from? Where have you been?" Konosa asked, relief and curiosity in his voice.

Remeshi smiled slightly. "I just dropped Ayeta-san back to his place."

"What? You should have said something! Who just disappears like that?!" Konosa's frustration was evident.

"Sorry, Senpai," Remeshi replied, turning his attention back to Heiki. "So, where is Oya-chan?"

Heiki's eyes flashed with contempt. "Oho? The first thing you ask as soon as you come back is about that imbecile-"

Without warning, Remeshi unsheathed his sword and aimed it directly at Heiki, who still wore Oya's guise.

"What the heck. Doesn't it bother you that I look like your friend?" Heiki taunted, a smirk playing on his lips.

"You made yourself look that way," Remeshi responded coldly.

"And you have some guts pointing a sword at me."

"Oh? In our land, Mister Heiki, Oya-chan is respected. You didn't like how our master called your queen by her name? Well, I didn't like hearing Oya-chan's name from your mouth. Let alone cursing her."

Heiki laughed, a chilling sound. "Ha... haha... hahahaha. How interesting."

"Where is Oya-chan?" Remeshi demanded, his eyes hardening.

"Hell if I know."

"What?"

"Sheesh. Get that stupid sword away from me," Heiki sneered.

Light suddenly enveloped the room, a flame orange glow that swirled around Heiki. The air crackled with energy, and when the light dissipated, the figure lying before them had transformed. It was no longer Oya, but Heiki himself, standing defiantly in front of Remeshi's sword.

"What... was that?" Konosa asked, his voice filled with astonishment.

"You were really Heiki?" Remeni asked, incredulity in her voice. "How...?"

"Viola. Magic, ladies and gentlemen," Heiki said with a casual shrug, as if the display had been nothing more than a parlor trick.

Remeshi twirled his sword in his hand, balancing the tip on his finger as he sighed. "Do you know where you got that magic from?"

"Nope. I just saw my little sissy wasn't with you. Then suddenly I found I could perform magic," Heiki replied with a grin.

"What a half-baked story," Miyazono scoffed, her eyes narrowing in suspicion.

"It is what it is," Heiki said nonchalantly.

The tension in the room remained palpable, the air thick with unanswered questions and unspoken fears. The friends exchanged worried glances, the reality of their situation sinking in deeper with each passing moment. They stood in the presence of a powerful enemy, and the fate of their missing friend, Oya, hung precariously in the balance.

***

Magic.

Magic wasn't an unfound source in this world. It had been a part of the fabric of reality for as long as anyone could remember. In ancient eras, people wielded magic as naturally as they breathed. Countries like India and South Africa, steeped in mysticism and ancient traditions, still had active communities of magic users. These were lands where the arcane arts were not just respected but revered, passed down through generations like precious heirlooms.

In Japan, however, the story was different. Magic had all but vanished from the land. It was a rare, almost mythical phenomenon. Once, long ago, Japan too had its share of magic users, but their numbers had dwindled over the centuries. By the present era, the presence of magic was so scarce it was practically extinct. Only three out of millions of Japanese people had been known to possess magic in the earlier eras. These individuals were anomalies, whispers of a bygone age when the supernatural was intertwined with everyday life.

What made the current era remarkable was the sudden, unexpected resurgence of magic. It was as if the old powers had awakened from a long slumber, responding to some unknown call. New magic users began to appear, defying the long-held belief that magic in Japan was a relic of the past. This resurgence was not widespread but notable enough to cause a stir.

Lady Hizakun had been one of the few exceptions for many years, a solitary beacon of arcane power in a land that had forgotten its magical roots. Her abilities had set her apart, making her a figure of intrigue and mystery. But now, she was no longer alone. Others had begun to manifest magical talents, each one a new link in a chain that had long been thought broken.

This unexpected turn of events brought hope to some and fear to others. To those who had long believed in the old ways, it was a sign that the ancient traditions were not dead but merely dormant. For the skeptics, it was a disconcerting development, challenging their understanding of the world.

Japan found itself at a crossroads, its people caught between the rational and the mystical. The reappearance of magic users hinted at a future where the past and present could coexist, where the supernatural might once again be a part of everyday life. It was a time of change, a time of uncertainty, but above all, a time of wonder. The legacy of magic was being rewritten, and no one knew where the new story would lead.

***

Remeshi let go of his sword, the metal hitting the floor with a resounding clang. Heiki stood up straight, a smirk spreading across his face as he surveyed the group. With a mocking bow, he turned and exited the room.

"What the hell? Where do you think you're going-" Konosa started, his voice rising in anger, but Remeni stopped him with a firm hand on his shoulder.

"Let him be. There's no point in all this anyway," Remeni said, her voice tinged with exhaustion.

"But Remeni-"

"Listen, Konosa nii. We're all shocked right now. But I guess, at this moment, what's more unsettling is the number of people who use magic."

"And the fact that Oya is missing," Konosa added, his voice dropping.

"And that, yeah," Remeni agreed.

They stood in silence, the weight of recent events pressing down on them.

"G-guys?" A familiar voice called from the far corner of the hallway. They turned to see Oya, her figure barely visible in the dim light.

"Oya Neesama?" Amash called out, her voice filled with surprise and relief. Oya nodded weakly. Without hesitation, Amash leaped forward, taking huge steps, and enveloped Oya in a tight hug.

"Uh... I missed you too, but what is going on? Why do you all look so-"

"Oya, where were you?" Konosa interrupted, his voice tense.

"Oh, I was... stuck in that demon dimension," Oya explained, her voice weary.

"All this time... you've been there?" Konosa asked, disbelief coloring his words.

"Yeah, and I called out for so long and so loud, but you guys just left me..." Oya's voice cracked slightly, the memory of her ordeal still fresh.

The room fell into a heavy silence as everyone absorbed the gravity of her words. They had all been through so much, and yet, somehow, they had missed Oya's cries for help.

After the incident, they all tried to return to their daily routines, though a sense of unease lingered. They moved through their days like shadows, the memory of their failure haunting them. Life went on, but nothing felt quite the same.

They went to school, attended classes, and prepared for the upcoming exams. Despite the lingering injuries, they participated in school activities, their bodies healing slowly over time. Their days were a blur of lectures, study sessions, and brief moments of camaraderie.

After school, they returned to their dorms. Some would study diligently, while others simply lay on their beds, lost in thought. Konosa often practiced with his sword, the familiar motions bringing him a semblance of peace. Evenings were spent in the dorm canteen, where they ate dinner together-if they felt like eating at all. Most nights, they went to bed early, seeking solace in sleep.

Every third day, they made their way to Fujima's house. Amash would check their wounds, ensuring they were healing properly. She took her role seriously, her care and attention a small comfort amidst the chaos of their lives. These visits became a ritual, a steady anchor in an otherwise tumultuous time.

A month passed in this manner, each day blending into the next. The memory of the demons, the shock of discovering Heiki's true identity, and the relief of finding Oya again-all of it weighed heavily on them. They lived through the days as they came, one after another, waiting for a time when things might finally feel normal again.

[HA Main building
Classroom]-❤️

The midday sun cast long shadows across the manicured lawns of Hillaria Academy. The ancient trees, with their gnarled branches and lush leaves, provided a welcome respite from the summer heat. Remeshi walked with purposeful strides, his mind a storm of thoughts and emotions. As he rounded a corner near the science wing, he spotted Chiasa standing alone, her back to him as she studied a blooming hydrangea bush.

"Chiasa-san," Remeshi called out, his voice firm but tinged with a hint of desperation.

Chiasa turned abruptly, her eyes widening in surprise. "Oh-uhm. H-hello, Remeshi-san," she stammered, her gaze flickering away from his intense stare.

Remeshi's brow furrowed. "Still? You're still not talking to me?" His tone was a mix of frustration and hurt.

Chiasa's fingers fidgeted with the hem of her skirt. "What do you want me to do, Remeshi-san? That demon is from your group!"

Remeshi's jaw tightened. "...Thanks," he muttered, the word heavy with sarcasm and disappointment.

As he began to turn away, Chiasa's voice rose in panic. "Wait! Remeshi-san! I know you are a nice person! Let's just stay away from Ayeta-"

Remeshi spun back to face her, his eyes blazing. "Chiasa-san-no. Chiasa. Did I talk about your teammates?"

Chiasa blinked, taken aback. "Well, no, but-"

"Then you should stay away the same," Remeshi interrupted, his voice cold and unyielding.

Chiasa's frustration boiled over. "Hey! He is a demon all the same!! You and I can stay friends, Remeshi-san. Only one thing has to change."

"Shut up," Remeshi snapped, his voice low and dangerous.

Chiasa's breath caught in her throat as she watched Remeshi walk away. The distance between them grew with each step he took, the emotional chasm mirroring the physical one. She bit her lip sharply, fighting back tears of frustration and anger. How had it come to this? The one and only friend she had made during their grueling camp was slipping away, all because of a difference she couldn't reconcile.

Remeshi's figure became smaller and smaller, eventually disappearing around another corner. Chiasa stood rooted to the spot, her heart pounding painfully in her chest. The hydrangea blossoms she had been admiring moments before now seemed to mock her with their unyielding beauty and tranquility. She clenched her fists, glaring at the empty pathway where Remeshi had just walked, feeling the sting of his words and the weight of her own convictions pressing heavily upon her.

As the echoes of their argument faded, the academy grounds returned to their usual serene state. But for Chiasa, the tranquility was shattered, leaving her to grapple with the harsh reality of her choices and the pain of losing a friend.

The dormitory was cloaked in the stillness of the night, the only sounds the faint rustling of leaves outside and the occasional distant chirping of crickets. Remeshi lay on his bed, his eyes fixed on the ceiling. His phone was clutched in his right hand, the soft glow of the screen illuminating his thoughtful expression. He was on a call with Oya, their voices hushed in the quiet of the room.

"We have our final test tomorrow," Oya's voice came through the speaker, clear and steady.

"I know," Remeshi replied, his tone lacking the enthusiasm that usually accompanied such an announcement.

"Aren't you excited? We can finally start practicing again properly," Oya pressed, trying to ignite a spark of excitement in him.

"Sure," Remeshi answered, his voice flat.

Oya sighed on the other end. "You've been practicing on your own, haven't you, Remeshi-kun?"

"No, Oya-chan," he said, though his hesitation betrayed him.

"Uh-huh," Oya responded, skepticism lacing her words.

Remeshi shifted on his bed, feeling the weight of her unspoken accusation. "Okay, fine. I did practice around for a while," he admitted reluctantly.

"A while?" Oya's voice was incredulous.

"Yeah... a while... like... four hours to be exact," Remeshi confessed, a hint of defensiveness creeping into his tone.

"Remeshi-kun! Do you want to be healed or not?" Oya's exasperation was palpable even through the phone.

"I am fine, okay? You are fine. Everyone is fine. They are only delaying things," Remeshi insisted, his frustration bubbling to the surface.

"What? Why would they do that?" Oya asked, confusion evident in her voice.

"Because... Sensei knows we are going to be kicked out sooner or later. If we return a bit later, maybe he is just buying time," Remeshi explained, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper.

"What? What are you saying, Remeshi-kun?" Oya's tone was a mix of disbelief and concern.

"I can't explain everything to you on call," Remeshi said, his voice tight with the frustration of being unable to convey the full scope of his thoughts.

"Then I'll come to your dorm," Oya declared with sudden determination.

"How? We can't-" Remeshi began to protest.

"Leave it to me, Remeshi-kun. See you tomorrow," Oya interrupted, her tone leaving no room for argument.

Remeshi sighed as the call ended, the screen of his phone going dark. He lay back, his mind racing with the implications of their conversation. He knew Oya well enough to understand that she would find a way to see him, no matter the obstacles.

The night stretched on, the silence in his room feeling heavier than ever. The distant hum of the academy's night life continued outside his window, but inside, Remeshi felt a growing sense of isolation and unease. He closed his eyes, hoping for sleep to come, but his mind remained restless, replaying Oya's words and the weight of the decisions they would soon have to make.

As the first light of dawn began to creep into the room, Remeshi finally drifted off into a fitful sleep, his dreams a tangled web of training sessions, looming tests, and the ever-present question of what lay ahead for him and his friends.

The day drifted on lazily, with the afternoon giving way to the evening. Remeshi, half-asleep, lay sprawled on his bed, his mind wandering through the hazy corridors of semi-consciousness. He missed class for the entire day but it all seemed pointless at the moment. A faint knock on the door interrupted his drowsy state, pulling him back to the present. He opened his eyes slowly, his gaze landing on the door. The knock persisted, growing louder with each passing second.

Reluctantly, Remeshi yawned and stretched, trying to shake off the lethargy that clung to him like a heavy blanket. He swung his legs off the bed and stood up, rubbing his eyes. As he walked towards the door, the knocking grew more insistent, echoing through the quiet room. He reached for the handle and pulled the door open, expecting to see someone standing there. But to his surprise, the hallway was empty.

Puzzled, Remeshi turned around, his heart beginning to race. The knocking continued, but it was no longer coming from the door. It was coming from the window. His eyes darted to the source of the sound, and there, framed by the twilight, was a shadowy figure. His breath caught in his throat, and for a moment, he was frozen in place, a surge of terror paralyzing him.

"Aaahhh!" Remeshi screamed, the sound echoing through the stillness.

The figure moved closer, and as it did, its features became clearer. It was a woman. She pressed her finger to her lips, her eyes wide with urgency and disbelief. Remeshi's fear turned to shock as he recognized her. It was Oya.

"You! Damnit! Why would you do this to me?" he exclaimed, his voice a mix of anger and relief.

Oya knocked on the window again, signaling for him to let her in. Remeshi quickly unlatched the window and opened it, allowing her to slip inside. They barely had a moment to catch their breath before another, louder knock came from the door. Remeshi's heart pounded in his chest.

"Someone heard you scream!" Oya whispered urgently.

"I know," Remeshi whispered back, his eyes wide with panic.

"Go. Open. The. Door," Oya mouthed silently, gesturing towards the door. Remeshi nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. He hurried towards the door while Oya hid behind the wardrobe, her movements swift and silent.

Remeshi took a deep breath to steady himself before flinging the door open. Standing there was a boy, no older than Remeshi, with a concerned look on his face.

"Ah. Who are you?" Remeshi asked, trying to keep his voice steady.

"Oh. I live in the room next door. You screamed a while ago, right? Are you okay?" the boy asked, his eyes scanning the room behind Remeshi.

"Oh yeah. Haha. Nightmare. Thank you though," Remeshi replied, forcing a laugh that sounded hollow even to his own ears.

"Yeah, no. That's alright. Ring me up if something comes," the boy said, handing Remeshi a yellow slip of paper. Remeshi took it, nodding gratefully.

The boy gave him a reassuring smile and turned to leave. Remeshi shut the door, leaning against it as a wave of relief washed over him. He slid down to the floor, his body trembling from the adrenaline coursing through his veins. Oya crept out from behind the wardrobe and knelt beside him, her face pale but relieved.

"Wah...saved," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

"Okay. So why are you here?" Remeshi asked, his curiosity piqued despite the lingering fear.

"I told you I'd meet you today, yesterday," Oya replied, her tone matter-of-fact.

"Like this?" Remeshi asked incredulously, gesturing to the window and the door.

"How else?" Oya shot back, a hint of a smile playing on her lips.

Remeshi sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Tell me, Remeshi-kun. What was all that about yesterday? Kicking us out, buying us time..."

"Right, so it's a weird story," Remeshi began, his voice taking on a serious tone.

As the night stretched on, Remeshi recounted the events that had led to their current predicament. He spoke of how they were considered dangerous, how authorities were planning to add them to the dangerous species list. Oya listened intently, absorbing every detail. She knew some of it, but there were parts that were new to her, pieces of a puzzle that had been missing until now.

He told her about the only way they could escape from this looming threat, about the plans that were set in motion, and about how Chiasa, once a friend, now seemed distant and untrustworthy. The weight of their reality settled over them like a heavy shroud.

[The next day. Fujima's house]-❤️

The next day arrived with a crisp, clear morning, and the memory of the previous night's events lingered in Remeshi's mind. Oya had slipped out of the dorm under the cover of darkness, leaving Remeshi to ponder the weight of their conversation alone. But today was a new day, and they had agreed to meet again, this time near the gates of Fujima's house.

Remeshi walked briskly through the streets, his thoughts racing. He reached the gates of Fujima's house just as Oya arrived from the opposite direction. They exchanged a brief nod, a silent acknowledgment.

As they stood by the gate, waiting, a familiar figure approached them. Amash greeted them with a mixture of confusion and curiosity.

"Uh... hi Remeshi-nii, Oya-nee," Amash said, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

"Hey, Amash. How's your health now?" Oya asked, her tone gentle but probing.

"O-oh," Amash stammered, clearly caught off guard. "But Oya-nee, I had sent a letter to everyone saying it will take more time to find out about that-"

"Amash," Remeshi interjected, his voice calm but firm, "I appreciate that you are trying to help us, but this won't take us anywhere."

Amash looked down, her shoulders slumping slightly. "So you knew."

Remeshi nodded. "I am surprised Konosa Senpai didn't catch on yet."

Amash's expression brightened a bit. "Oh, he did, Remeshi-nii. He came in yesterday, patted my shoulder, and said, 'Whatever this is for, I'm willing to wait. So please make the right choice,' and then he left for school."

Remeshi chuckled, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly. "Haha, that is so Konosa Senpai."

The trio stood in comfortable silence for a moment, the weight of their shared knowledge and the trust they placed in each other palpable in the morning air.