Yuji's Sister.

Prologue

The aroma of dried herbs and fresh linen nudges me awake. Flickering candlelight casts a warm glow against the pastel walls, punctuated with whimsical posters of bands and anime characters. Interspersed among them are intricate occult symbols, some of which dance with an almost hypnotic allure, whispering of forgotten rituals and ancient spells.

My eyes wander towards a small wooden desk tucked against a wall, on its surface a tapestry of scattered books and scrolls, each brimming with arcane knowledge. Some look ancient, their leather bindings cracked and worn, while others are fresh and new. Many of the tomes bear cryptic titles and inscriptions, promising insights into mysteries long hidden from the world.

Beside the window, nestled amidst the powerful talismans, are shelves brimming with plush toys, each appearing as guardians of some whimsical realm. Enigmatic trinkets,  beautiful crystals, and stones occupy the same space as little figurines and charms, creating an enchanting and mystical sanctuary. 

Hanging from the bedpost, a protective talisman sways gently. Its design strikes a chord deep within, hinting at a past interest. “Had I dabbled in the occult?”

Nestled amidst a chaotic sea of blankets and plush toys, I force myself to sit up, rubbing my temples to dispel the drowsiness.

“Where the heck am I? And why does my head feel as if it's filled with cotton?”

A sudden pounding on the door nearly sends me out of the bed.

"Mirai! Are you up, yet? You'll sleep the whole day at this rate!"

“Mirai? Oh right, that's me. But... where is "here"? And why does that voice sound so familiar yet so distant?”

My fingers instinctively tug at a charm bracelet encircling my wrist. The symbols on it echo those scattered throughout the room, providing a strange sense of comfort despite my confusion. As I'm about to further examine the charms, my gaze drifts to the unfamiliar pajamas I'm wearing — cute, yet not a memory I can place.

"Uhm... Coming! Just a sec!"

"Hurry up, or I’ll be late for class! I decided to make pancakes today since you're always so busy. Thought it might be a nice change!"

“Pancakes? Sounds delightful, but... wait, school? I graduated, didn’t I? Why does school seem so recent in my mind? And who is this eager chef outside my door?”

Attempting to stand proves harder than I remember. My legs betray me momentarily, sending me crashing into a nearby dresser. The sudden impact sends an array of trinkets sprawling across the floor.

"Mirai? Everything okay in there?"

"I... yeah... I'm fine. Just tripped. Be out in a sec."

I hesitantly approach a mirror hanging on the door. Gazing back at me is a young woman with long, light red/pale auburn hair, its soft hue reminiscent of the gentle blush of a sunset. It flows in a loose braid down her back, with bangs neatly trimmed just past her eyebrows. A subtle scar is partially concealed beneath the fringe on her temple. Two longer side bangs gracefully frame her face. Her eyes, or should I say, my eyes, are the most entrancing. Mirai's left eye mirrors a serene pool, glistening under sunbeams. At certain angles, it reveals a spectrum reminiscent of a rainbow on water post-rain. The right eye, however, presents a vivid contrast. It boasts a brilliant shade of fiery yellow, almost resembling molten gold. Intricate patterns that resemble cracked glass or perhaps the radiant beams of a sunburst fill her iris, giving it a deep and mesmerizing effect. 

Playfully, I flex my arms, admiring the toned muscles. With a hint of curiosity, I lift my shirt slightly, only to be taken aback by an athletic build and rock-hard abs, sculpted as if carved from stone. This discovery adds another layer of mystery to my identity.

The backdrop behind me is littered with hanging talismans and amulets, their intricate designs and symbols denoting protection. The stark contrast between the room's mystical decor against my urban style is jarring. “Why would someone need so much protection? And from what?”

“Focus, Mirai. You've navigated murkier waters. Or... I think I have.”

With a renewed sense of purpose, I map out a plan in my mind. “First, leave this room. Second, pancakes — can't forget the pancakes. And lastly, piece together this jigsaw of memories and place.”

Taking one final, deep breath, I turn the doorknob, hoping for answers on the other side.