Saving Me: Ruinene

It's the time of the year, soo... (21)

hello, just wanted to let yall know that this wasn't my idea, and shoutout to the person who suggested this!!! This is also a canon event in the game btw, and as you might've noticed a few in the other chapters too. But I don't exactly copy it, so I do it in my own story. Terribly terribllyyy sorry for not continuing this in what, months?? Anyways, I talk too much, so let's get into it!!

Rui

As we stand on the small wonder stage, the excitement between us is almost tangible. Emu and Tsukasa are both staring at me, awaiting the spark of inspiration I can see forming in their minds. The moment feels right, but then they look at each other, scratching their heads.

Emu: "Except, we haven't really planned out what kinda show we're gonna make.."

Tsukasa: "Yeah. A grand stage needs a grand story!" He said while crossing his arms.

"Well, it's almost that time of the year, so... what if we did a Christmas show? Something heartfelt, about warmth, hope, and the magic of the season."

Emu's eyes light up and Tsukasa gives a nod of approvement.

Tsukasa: "A Christmas show is perfect!"

I take a breath, feeling the weight of possibility.

"What if... we call it A Christmas Of Smiles?"

Emu gasps, her eyes sparkling.

Emu: "Ooh! That sounds so wondahoi already, Rui!"

I pause to think for a couple of seconds while I'm building the outline of the story.

"It's a musical," I continue, "set around a lonely girl who lives in an orphanage. She has no family, and each year she waits, believing Santa will come. But this year, instead of Santa, a young boy— Santa's apprentice— appears at her window."

Emu: "Santa's apprentice?! What happens next? Tell me, tell me!!!!"

Tsukasa: "Emu, take it easy. Though you're not wrong, I am kinda invested, heh..."

I smile, already picturing the scenes in my head.

"The apprentice has a problem, his reindeer has escaped, leaving him unable to deliver presents. Seeing this, the little girl offers to help. Together, they set off on a magical journey to boys and girls all over."

Tsukasa nods, a smile spreading across his face.

Tsukasa: "A story with friendship, hope, and holiday spirit! The kids will love this one for sure. And I'll show off my starry skills, too!"

As the two compliment my storytelling and ramble on and on about different stuff, my mind can't get off this one thing...

Nene.

I can't stop thinking about her. I miss her.

And she'd understand the story's heart in a way no one else could. Maybe...

"We'll need more people to make this reality,"
I say slowly, feeling the weight of my next words. "And I... I think I may know someone perfect for this..."

Nene

Meeting Toya was... unexpected. We walk side by side, his steady, calm presence making it easier to relax. I glance at him, trying to think of something to say. He's not one for small talk, but... it feels nice, not needing to fill every silence.

"You're... really good at those games."

I finally manage, my voice quieter than I meant.

"I've never had someone keep up with me like that."

Toya gives a small nod.

Toya: "Thanks. I could say the same to you."

His expression doesn't change much, but I think I catch a flicker of a smile in his eyes.

Toya: "It's been a while since I had that kind of challenge."

I'm about to ask him what brought him to the the arcade before my phone buzzed a notification in my pocket, breaking the silence.

I glance at the screen and see a message from...
It can't be... Rui?

Hey, Nene! I have an idea I think you'd like. so recently I just joined this rlly fun troupe! Would you be up to join us? It's your favorite— a musical!!!!

"Tch... I can imagine that stupid smirk behind the screen..." I mutter to myself.

But my heart skips. Rui's in a.. troupe? HE'S COOPERATING WITH PPL?!?! AND A... musical... it sounds like something he'd love to pull me into. But memories of freezing up on stage flash in my mind, the doubts creeping back in.

Toya's watching me, sensing my hesitation.

Toya: "Everything okay?"

I swallow, nodding slowly.

"Yeah, just... a message from someone I haven't talked to in a hot minute..."

I look down, re-reading his messages. It's been a long time since we worked on anything together. Still, something about the idea of a musical... it stirs something inside, a little bit of warmth mixed with my nerves.

I take a breath, fingers hovering over the screen before I finally type back.

ok... ill giv it a try