Belonging | 𝐲𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐡𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐱 𝐧𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐡𝐲𝐨𝐧 𝐧𝐨 𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐨

𝐄𝐩𝐢𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐮𝐞

In the golden rays of the setting sun, Riei sat upon the tatami floor, cradling a delicate flute in his hands. As he brought the instrument to his lips, a soft, melodic tune began to flow through the air, carrying with it the bittersweet memories.

With closed eyes, Riei allowed the music to sweep him back in time, to a time when he and his beloved sister, Ritsura, were inseparable. They had spent their childhood in the Nura estate, where laughter and mischievous pranks filled their days. The echoes of their carefree footsteps resonated in his mind as he played the flute with gentle, nostalgic grace.

He remembered the countless afternoons they spent chasing each other around the courtyard, their laughter ringing like bells in the air. At that time, Ritsura's eyes sparkled with joy as she ran, her long, dark hair flowing behind her like a shimmering river.

The two of them would climb the old Sakura tree at the center of the courtyard, their sanctuary of imagination. They'd share secrets, dreams, and stories while perched among the branches, feeling like they could touch the sky.

But everything changed. The memories of their carefree days slowly faded as it was replaced with a darker image.

Why did he take the cursed flute from that yokai?

Why did he play the tune to enlighten his disheartened sister?

If only he had been smarter, they wouldn't end up at that dark cold lab. If only he was stronger, none of the misfortunes would befall his precious sister. If only he could turn back time... his sister wouldn't be bedridden for five years.

Through the melancholic melody, his resolve grew stronger. Riei concluded his tune, the final notes lingering in the air. He look to his side and saw his sister sleeping peacefully.

"How ironic, the flute was what set us apart yet bind us together..." he caressed his sister's hair before placing his lips on top of her forehead.

"Just a little bit longer, Ritsura. I'll be sure to keep my promise."

✲'*。.❄¨¯'*✲。❄。*。¨¯'*✲

At the same time, within the threshold of the Nura estate, a group of mysterious figures clothed in traditional robes walked in. Their presence exuded an aura of mystique, and the yokais' curiosity was piqued as rumors of their arrival spread like wildfire.

"Who are those people?"

Towa who had just arrived at the estate, was surprised to see the sight. As far as she knows, someone dressed like that, shouldn't be anywhere near a place like the Nura estate. Just as her eyes continue to stare at them walking into the mansion, someone replied.

"It's the Keikain clan."

"....!" Towa's heart almost leaped out of her chest as she jerked her head towards the newcomer.

"Riei! Stop sneaking up on me like that!"

"What do you mean sneaking up? You can smell me from miles away, yet you couldn't smell me from behind you?" Riei raised his eyebrow.

"M-My mind was occupied that's all," Towa mumbled.

Riei chuckled and ruffled her hair before staring back at the procession. It looked like his father was handing them the sealed Zanseiken.