Wanderers of Sorceria Moonlight Prism 6 Riko decides to take the band in a new direction, with new costumes, sound, and a possible new collaboration. ========================================================== ## Starlight Dreamer (Moonlight Prism Cover) The dimly lit studio of Prism Productions hummed with excitement as Moonlight Prism gathered to discuss their next music video. They had just finished rehearsing their cover of 'Starlight Dreamer', one of Mana O Mana's iconic J-pop hits, and the conversation quickly turned to how they would put their own spin on it for the video. Riko, as always, was at the center of the conversation, her arms crossed and eyes gleaming with mischievous energy. "I know what you're all thinking," Riko said, leaning against her guitar. "It's too easy to just make this song upbeat and cute. I mean, that's what my mom would expect, right?" Itsuki, lounging nearby with a playful grin, nodded in agreement. "And we are *not* about easy. So, what's the plan? How do we make it ours?" Riko looked around at her bandmates-- Hana, serene but curious, Itsuki, ready for whatever chaos Riko could cook up, and Kaede, the most level-headed of them all, who was clearly bracing himself for whatever came next. With a dramatic pause, Riko raised her finger, her grin widening. "We're going to stick with the rock aesthetic, of course. Keep it upbeat, keep the energy high. But for the visuals-- get ready for something ridiculous." Hana tilted her head slightly. "Ridiculous how?" Riko's eyes sparkled with excitement as she explained. "Okay, imagine this. We're all on stage in our usual stage outfits, right? But while we're playing, we get absolutely *covered* in foam-- like, continuously sprayed with it from all sides, without it stopping until the song's over." Kaede's face immediately fell, a sigh escaping his lips. "Foam? You mean, we're going to be drenched? My drum kit is going to be a mess." Itsuki burst out laughing and gave Kaede a playful nudge. "Oh, come on, Kaede. Think of it as a group bonding experience. We're all going to be soaked, and we all have to clean up afterward, so it's not just your drum kit!" Hana, thoughtful but intrigued, chimed in. "It sounds a bit... out there. But it could be fun, right? It would definitely make the video stand out. And the contrast between the bright, bubbly foam and our darker, more theatrical style would be striking." Riko nodded enthusiastically. "Exactly! The foam will be like this whimsical layer on top of our rock energy. The whole point is to have fun with it-- make it look like we're just leaning into the madness of it all. Think of it like... the Wonkawash scene from 'Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory'." At the mention of the film, Hana's eyes lit up. She could already picture the scene in her head-- the band playing their hearts out while being sprayed from head to toe, their instruments and outfits getting completely lost in a sea of foam, yet somehow still powering through. It was bizarre, but in a way that was very Moonlight Prism. Kaede looked hesitant, still visibly concerned about the mess. "I'm all for standing out, but the cleanup... this better be worth it." Riko rolled her eyes, laughing. "Kaede, relax! We'll all help out, and besides, think of the impact! People won't forget it. I mean, who else is getting foamed while rocking out to a J-pop cover? It's absurd and that's why it's genius." Itsuki grinned, giving Kaede another playful nudge. "Plus, you know how these things work-- if it's messy enough, it'll probably be a blast to watch later. We'll be legends!" Kaede sighed again. "Fine. But you're all helping clean up afterward. No excuses. No running off for a six-hour coffee break, right, Itsuki?" "Hey, I got lost!" the guitarist insisted, feigning innocence. "You never know what can happen when getting coffee?" "Especially if you get it from across town and not across the street, right?" Riko added, unable to contain her amusement. ---- With the plan set, the band dove into preparations. Riko, Hana, Itsuki, and Kaede took their places on the stage in their signature costumes. Riko in her bold, edgy outfit, Hana in her more modest yet equally striking stage dress, and Itsuki in a flamboyant mix of rock-star chic. Kaede, behind his drum kit, looked as ready as ever, despite his reservations. The atmosphere crackled with anticipation. The lights dimmed, the music started, and soon the upbeat notes of Mana O Mana's 'Starlight Dreamer' filled the air. But this wasn't the sugary-sweet version everyone knew. Moonlight Prism had transformed it into a high-energy rock anthem, full of guitar riffs, driving drumbeats, and Riko's husky, powerful vocals. As the band played, the foam machines kicked into action. At first, it was a light spray, the foam barely noticeable as it swirled around their legs. But soon enough, the stage was engulfed, and foam began to cascade down from above, coating their instruments, their hair, their clothes-- everything. The surreal, almost magical sensation of being sprayed with foam while playing created a wild, dreamlike scene, reminiscent of the chaotic fun of the Wonkawash. Riko grinned as the foam hit her, not missing a beat as she strummed her guitar, the thick white bubbles sticking to her hair and shoulders. Hana, at first slightly tentative, soon found herself laughing as the foam piled around her, the absurdity of the situation dissolving her usual reservations. Itsuki leaned into the ridiculousness, flipping his foam-covered hair dramatically as he played a fierce guitar solo. Even Kaede, despite his earlier complaints, was grinning behind his drum kit as foam sprayed across the cymbals and toms, creating a bizarre yet strangely captivating spectacle as he drummed on, completely submerged in the madness. By the time the song came to an end, the stage was barely visible beneath the thick layers of foam. The band stood there, soaked and laughing, the final notes of the song ringing out as the foam machines finally cut off. The scene was pure chaos-- exactly what Riko had envisioned. As the cameras stopped rolling, Riko turned to her bandmates, her face still streaked with foam, and gave them a triumphant grin. "Now *that's* how you do a cover." Hana, still laughing as she wiped some foam from her face, nodded in agreement. "That was ridiculous, but... perfect." Kaede, though drenched and clearly already thinking about the cleanup, couldn't help but smile too. "Yeah, yeah, it was fun. But remember-- we're all cleaning up." Itsuki, completely unfazed and still looking like he was having the time of his life, raised his foam-covered guitar in the air. "Totally worth it." And as the band started to gather their soaked instruments and prepare for the inevitable cleanup, they couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. This was Moonlight Prism at its finest. ---- Itsuki had always been the wild card of Moonlight Prism. Flamboyant and daring, he thrived on pushing boundaries-- especially when it came to the band's performances. So when he secretly commissioned a new outfit for the 'Starlight Dreamer' concert debut, he knew it was going to be something that would raise eyebrows. What Riko didn't know was that he had planned to channel her mom, Mana O Mana, for their live performance-- only with his own twist. In his dressing room before the dress rehearsal, Itsuki unzipped the garment bag and carefully pulled out the outfit he had custom-made: a black and silver version of Mana O Mana's iconic idol costume. The design was unmistakable, with its fluffy tulle skirt, sparkling sequins, and frilly details. But instead of the usual soft pastel colors, Itsuki's version was in black, white, and silver, perfectly fitting Moonlight Prism's aesthetic. He grinned as he slipped it on, admiring how the silver accents shimmered under the studio lights. The costume was tight-fitting, highlighting his lean frame, and paired with silver platform boots and black fingerless gloves. Itsuki took a moment to fix his hair in the mirror, giving himself a satisfied once-over before stepping out of his dressing room. When he walked onto the stage for the dress rehearsal, Riko was the first to spot him. Her jaw dropped, and for a split second, she looked like she had seen a ghost. Her shock quickly turned to something a bit more upset as she stormed over, eyes wide with disbelief. "Itsuki-- what the hell?!" Riko's voice came out sharper than usual, a mix of confusion and frustration bubbling to the surface. "Are you... are you dressed like my *mom*?" Itsuki, unfazed, struck a pose, showing off the black and silver version of Mana O Mana's iconic outfit. "It's a tribute," he said casually, flashing a mischievous grin. "Think of it as me honoring a J-pop legend. Besides, this is our version, the Moonlight Prism edition." Riko crossed her arms, clearly not amused. "I didn't agree to you crossdressing as my mom on stage, Itsuki. This... this feels weird." Itsuki brushed off her concern with a wave of his hand, his grin never faltering. "Come on, Riko. Look at it this way-- you're performing on stage with your mom! Isn't that, like, every idol's dream? Carrying on the legacy, or whatever?" Riko's lips tightened. She looked like she was ready to argue more, but Hana, ever the calm voice of reason, stepped in before things could escalate further. "Itsuki did go through the trouble of getting this made," Hana said softly, her tone as soothing as ever. "And I don't think it's meant to be disrespectful, Riko. If Itsuki's okay with it, I don't see the harm. It's just for the performance, after all." Riko looked from Hana to Itsuki, who was twirling the hem of his frilly skirt with far too much enthusiasm. "I don't know," she muttered, rubbing her forehead. "This feels... off." Itsuki clapped his hands together. "Just give it a try. If it doesn't work, I'll scrap it. No harm, no foul." Riko hesitated, clearly uncomfortable, but Hana's calm rationale seemed to soften her stance. After a long pause, she sighed and relented. "Fine. We'll try it." As the band took their places and the rehearsal began, Riko couldn't help but glance at Itsuki repeatedly, her unease still simmering. His outfit, despite being a deliberate homage to Mana O Mana, was undeniably Itsuki-- bold, daring, and eccentric. But when they started playing, something strange happened: Itsuki's movements on stage, the way he posed and twirled, the way he strummed his guitar with dramatic flair-- it was all eerily similar to Mana O Mana's signature style. Riko's stomach tightened as she realized just how well Itsuki had pulled it off. His energy on stage mimicked her mother's idol performances she remembered watching on video recordings. The confidence, the fluidity, the way he commanded the stage-- it was uncanny. By the time they reached the chorus of 'Starlight Dreamer', Riko was feeling a strange mix of emotions. On one hand, she was impressed-- Itsuki had captured the essence of her mother's stage presence so well that it was almost unsettling. On the other hand, the idea of sharing the stage with a crossdressing version of Mana O Mana, especially in such a personal way, left her feeling conflicted. After the final notes of the song rang out, the stage lights dimmed, and the band came to a halt. Riko looked over at Itsuki, who was striking a final pose, his skirt swishing dramatically as he held his guitar high. There was no denying that he had nailed the performance. But as Riko caught her breath, she realized that this was no ordinary tribute. It was Itsuki being Itsuki, taking something sentimental and turning it into something bold and unexpected. Itsuki grinned at Riko as the lights came back on. "Well? How did I do?" Riko stared at him for a moment, unsure of how to put her feelings into words. "I... I don't know whether to be impressed or freaked out. That was way too close to the real thing." Itsuki laughed, clearly proud of himself. "See? You're basically sharing the stage with a legend!" Hana stepped in, smiling gently. "It was a bit surreal, but... I think it worked. Itsuki, you really pulled it off." Kaede, who had been watching from behind his drum kit, shook his head with a smirk. "I have to admit, I didn't expect you to go *that* hard with the homage, but... yeah, it worked." Riko sighed, running a hand through her hair. "Okay, fine. You win this one, Itsuki. But don't make this a habit, alright? I'm not sure how many more 'mom' moments I can handle." Itsuki gave her a cheeky wink. "No promises." ---- The crowd was roaring with excitement as Moonlight Prism stepped onto the stage for their next concert. The lights flared, and the familiar sound of cheers echoed across the venue, sending a thrill through Riko as she took her place at the front. Her usual outfit-- a bralette under a short, flashy jacket, a fluffy idol skirt, tight shorts, and thigh-high stockings-- drew attention as always, but tonight, something else was turning heads. Right next to her was Itsuki, crossdressing as her mother, Mana O Mana. His silver and black version of her iconic idol outfit sparkled under the lights, the short skirt twirling as he took a confident stance with his guitar. Hana, in her ethereal white moon priestess gown, stood elegantly at her spot, while Kaede, the understated one by comparison, was cool and collected in his black jacket and pants, holding his drumsticks with a laid-back readiness. When the crowd saw Itsuki, dressed as the legendary J-pop idol, the energy surged even higher. The cheers were almost deafening, and Riko couldn't help but laugh at the absurdity of it all. She raised her hand to calm the crowd, but her grin betrayed how much she was enjoying the moment. "It's such a strange thing," Riko said into the mic, her voice playful as she glanced over at Itsuki, "to be sharing a stage with my *mom*." The crowd roared with laughter, and even Itsuki gave a cheeky wave, leaning into the role of the diva. Riko shook her head, half in disbelief and half in amusement. "But hey, I'll take it," she added with a wink, her fingers lightly strumming her guitar as she let the joke hang in the air for a moment. She turned her attention back to the audience, her tone suddenly more serious, but still carrying a hint of her playful spirit. "I know a lot of you were expecting something more introspective and melancholy tonight," she said, her voice softening as she gestured toward Hana. "I mean, *that's* our usual style, right? But even Hana needs a little sunshine sometimes." The crowd chuckled, knowing how Hana was often seen as the quiet, mysterious moon priestess of the band. But instead of blushing shyly like she usually did, Hana just shook her head, a small smile playing on her lips. It was clear she was just as comfortable with the energy tonight as everyone else. "And I know what you're all thinking," Riko continued, her grin returning as she gestured dramatically toward Itsuki. "I bet 'Mom' up here is super disappointed in *my* outfit!" She motioned to her midriff, where her bralette and shorts left little to the imagination. The crowd burst out laughing, and even Itsuki played along, giving Riko a mock disapproving shake of his head, like a scolding parent. Riko grinned wider, feeding off the energy. "But hey," she said, "we're Moonlight Prism, right? We do things our way." With that, the lights dimmed slightly as they prepared for the next song. The crowd hushed, waiting in anticipation. "And tonight," Riko continued, her voice full of excitement, "we're giving you a different kind of 'Starlight Dreamer'. So let's do this-- *rock style*!" As the first heavy guitar chords hit, the stage exploded with lights and sound. This wasn't the usual moody, introspective song that the fans were used to. No, this was upbeat, punchy, and full of life. The drums kicked in with a fast, steady rhythm, and Kaede, despite his earlier reservations, was clearly in the zone, his focus on every beat as he held down the tempo. Itsuki shredded his guitar with the same flamboyant flair he always did, but tonight, dressed as Mana O Mana, there was an extra layer of humor and nostalgia in his performance. He moved like a pop idol, striking exaggerated poses that mimicked Riko's mother's signature moves, which only added to the surreal and hilarious nature of the concert. Hana, meanwhile, let loose on her violin, her fingers dancing across the strings with an energy that mirrored the rock-driven beat. She looked less like the reserved moon priestess and more like someone who was fully embracing the electric atmosphere. Her usual serene composure was replaced by a fierceness that matched the mood of the song, and the crowd responded, cheering her on with wild enthusiasm. Riko, as always, was in her element. The faster pace of the song fueled her, and she worked the crowd like a seasoned pro, her voice blending perfectly with the hard-hitting sound. She reveled in the adrenaline, letting it wash over her as the fans screamed and sang along. By the time they hit the final chorus, the entire venue was on fire with excitement. After the last note of 'Starlight Dreamer' rang out, Riko took a moment to catch her breath, looking out at the sea of cheering fans. A wide grin spread across her face as she locked eyes with Itsuki, who gave her a proud wink. "I guess my mom would've been proud after all," Riko said, her voice echoing across the stage, full of laughter and joy. ---- ## Itsuki's Day Off Itsuki tugged at the silver bob wig, adjusting it in front of a small mirror in his apartment. The reflection staring back at him was uncanny. With Hana's signature choppy bob, and dressed in her understated style of street clothes-- an oversized cardigan over a plain white blouse, black skinny jeans, and a pair of sneakers-- he felt like he could actually pass for her. His body wasn't all that different from Hana's: slender, but not too tall, and with just enough softness to avoid being conspicuous. He chuckled to himself, "Yeah, Riko's figure would be a lot harder to pull off," he muttered, imagining the bustier lead singer's frame, and how impossible it would be to replicate that look. But Hana? Itsuki was confident he could make it work. Today wasn't about a performance, though-- it was about practice. He wanted to test if he could blend in as Hana while out in public. To really *act* like her. With that thought, he left the apartment and headed toward Akihabara, a place he decided would be a good test. A busy part of Tokyo, full of people, where everyone minded their own business but also had an eye for detail, especially when it came to idols. If anyone was going to recognize "Hana" on the streets, it would be in Akihabara. The streets were crowded as usual, bright lights and animated billboards flashing from every direction. Itsuki took a deep breath, pushing down his nerves. He had to focus-- not just on looking like Hana, but *being* Hana. Calm, quiet, reserved. He kept his head slightly lowered, adopting the shy mannerisms that Hana was known for. Every few steps, he glanced around, making sure no one was giving him more than a passing glance. So far, so good. After wandering for a while, he passed by a boutique shop with flashy costumes and dresses on display. A smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. His feet carried him inside almost without thinking, drawn to the rows of elaborate outfits that lined the walls. The shop wasn't busy, so he wandered around freely, letting his eyes skim over the racks of costumes. A schoolgirl uniform here, a maid outfit there, something that was clearly designed to be eye-catching and playful. He stopped in front of a particularly daring ensemble-- a tight, revealing bodysuit with shimmering silver accents. It was the kind of outfit that screamed *fanservice* and was exactly the opposite of what Hana would ever wear. Itsuki found himself grinning mischievously, his fingers lightly brushing the fabric. [I bet Hana would look pretty amazing in something like this,] he thought, his imagination running wild. But then he paused. This wasn't about Hana-- this was for him. [Wait, what am I doing?] he scolded himself internally, his grin fading. Hana would never be caught dead in an outfit like this. He looked down at the costume again, feeling a little sheepish. This was completely out of character for her. He wasn't supposed to be here shopping for himself. He was supposed to be Hana right now. Reserved, modest, and definitely *not* picking out fanservice costumes in Akihabara. But then again... he wasn't really Hana, was he? He was Itsuki, and these were costumes *he* wanted. For a moment, he felt a strange mix of guilt and excitement. It wasn't like he was hurting anyone. And after all, it was *his* body he was imagining in these clothes, not Hana's. "I'm getting too into this," he muttered under his breath, shaking his head. He grabbed the bodysuit and a few other outfits that had caught his eye-- things that he knew he wouldn't wear on stage with Moonlight Prism, but could have a little fun with in private. He piled them into his arms, glancing around nervously to make sure no one was watching him too closely. Itsuki made his way to the fitting room, feeling a little thrill as he closed the door behind him. He slipped out of "Hana's" street clothes and tried on the first costume. Looking in the mirror, he had to admit it looked good-- *he* looked good. The fit was tight, but flattering, and while it was definitely more risque than anything Hana would wear, it didn't feel *wrong* on him. Still, as he examined himself in the mirror, he couldn't help but feel a little out of place. He was supposed to be practicing acting like Hana, but here he was, dressed in something that was completely out of character for her. [I'm messing this up,] he thought, sighing. But instead of letting it bother him, he shrugged. This was just a bit of fun. It didn't have to be perfect. He quickly tried on the other outfits, each one more ridiculous than the last, and found himself laughing softly at the absurdity of it all. Once he was done, he changed back into "Hana's" clothes, making sure the wig was still in place. He gathered the costumes and brought them to the register, paying for them quietly, hoping the cashier wouldn't recognize him-- or Hana. The last thing he needed was for anyone to start rumors about "Hana" buying fanservice outfits in Akihabara. With the costumes tucked discreetly in a shopping bag, Itsuki made his way out of the store, blending back into the crowd. He kept his head down, his heart racing slightly as he navigated the streets. The adrenaline of pulling off this little adventure had him on edge, but also strangely exhilarated. Making his way home, Itsuki chuckled to himself. "Well, at least I pulled it off," he muttered, glancing at his reflection in a passing window. For now, the disguise had worked, and nobody had seemed to notice "Hana" buying fanservice costumes. ---- Itsuki couldn't help but smirk as he adjusted the frilly black-and-white maid outfit in front of his full-length mirror. The lace trim on the apron and skirt contrasted perfectly with the playful yet demure cut of the dress. He topped it all off with the silver bob wig, styled just like Hana's signature look. With a final glance, he gave his reflection a mock-serious pout, trying to channel Hana's quiet, shy demeanor. Satisfied, he turned away, a spring in his step as he waited for Kaede to arrive. Not long after, a knock at the door echoed through his small apartment. Itsuki's heart raced with excitement-- this was going to be *fun*. He pulled open the door, revealing a casually dressed Kaede, who raised an eyebrow at the sight of Itsuki standing there, dressed head to toe in a saucy maid outfit and acting like a timid version of Hana. "Uh, Itsuki?" Kaede said, his tone betraying mild confusion but no real surprise. With a delicate wave of his hand, Itsuki-- still in character as "Hana"-- shyly averted his eyes. "Oh... Kaede, you're here..." he mumbled, voice soft and reserved. "I'm... I'm sorry, but I lost a bet to Itsuki and now... now I have to serve you as a maid for lunch." Kaede gave a long-suffering sigh, stepping inside without a second glance at the outfit. He was used to Itsuki's antics by now. "Alright. What's this all about?" he asked, tone flat as he casually tossed his jacket over a chair. Still keeping up the act, Itsuki's eyes darted nervously as he shuffled toward the kitchen. "P-please have a seat, Master," he whispered in a perfect imitation of Hana's soft-spoken manner, holding his hands in front of him shyly. "I'll bring your lunch right away..." Kaede, unfazed, decided to play along for the moment and sat down at the table. Watching Itsuki fussing over the meal, Kaede leaned back and asked, "So, what's the real story here? Why are you wearing that getup?" Itsuki returned with a tray of sandwiches, salads, and tea, setting the plates down carefully, never breaking character. He finally sat across from Kaede with his own lunch, still acting as though he were the reserved and bashful Hana. "I-it's simple," he stammered, barely meeting Kaede's eyes. "I wanted to see if I could pass as Hana. One thing led to another, and now... I-I thought it'd be fun to see how far I could take it." Kaede, with his usual deadpan expression, nodded slowly. "Right. So, dressing like a maid and pretending to be Hana? That's taking it *pretty* far." He shook his head, unfazed by the ridiculousness of the situation. "And you think this is... respectful? To Hana?" Itsuki, still in character, blinked with wide, innocent eyes. "Of course! I respect Hana... a lot. I look up to her, you know? Like a little brother who just... happens to like trying on his big sister's clothes every now and then." Kaede exhaled through his nose, an amused smile barely tugging at the corners of his lips. "Right... well, you know you're never going to find a date with that attitude, right?" Itsuki, still channeling his inner Hana, tilted his head coyly. "Oh, but Kaede..." he began in a soft, girlish voice, "why would I need a date when I have you?" Kaede, who had been taking a sip of his tea, paused and fixed Itsuki with a flat stare. "Please don't." Itsuki couldn't hold back anymore. He broke character for a moment, laughing as he set his tea down. "Come on! You don't think this is funny?" he asked, grin wide. Kaede smirked a little, but his tone was still serious. "I'm not saying it isn't amusing, but why do you keep going after Hana's whole thing? I know how much you respect her, but this feels like you're just... making fun of her." Itsuki leaned back in his chair, twirling a strand of the silver bob wig as he spoke. "I'm not making fun of her. I *do* respect her, but that doesn't mean I can't have a little fun with it. I mean, what else is a little brother good for besides giving his big sister a hard time?" Kaede sighed, shaking his head. "Unbelievable." "Maybe," Itsuki shot back with a smirk. Then, as if a mischievous idea popped into his head, his expression turned serious again. He resumed his 'Hana' voice, lowering his eyes and clasping his hands together in mock bashfulness. "Kaede..." he said in a soft, breathy tone. "W-would you... go on a date with me?" Kaede blinked, completely unimpressed. "No." Itsuki laughed again, louder this time, doubling over as he clutched his sides. "Oh, come on! That was a pretty good impersonation, wasn't it?" "You're *terrible*," Kaede replied, though his lips finally curled into a smile. "And, for the record, Hana deserves better than this nonsense. She's... figuring herself out right now. The last thing she needs is me getting in the way or you running around dressed like her in a maid outfit." Itsuki raised an eyebrow, straightening up and dropping the act. "You really think you were in her way?" Kaede's smile faded a little, and he nodded. "Yeah. Hana... she's still working out who she is as a person. And I care about her too much to push her into something she's not ready for. I'm a gentleman, Itsuki. I don't force things." Itsuki looked at Kaede with a mixture of respect and mischief. "So... what you're saying is, you let her walk all over you." Kaede frowned. "That's not what I--" "That's exactly what it sounds like!" Itsuki interrupted, grinning mischievously as he leaned forward. "You're too nice, Kaede. Too much of a gentleman. Hana could've run all over you, and you'd still be standing there holding the door open." Kaede rolled his eyes. "I just don't want to be the kind of guy who pressures someone into something they're not ready for." "Fair enough," Itsuki conceded, still smiling as he leaned back in his chair, his hands behind his head. "But just remember, you turned down a date with *me*-- or should I say 'Hana'-- today. You're gonna regret that one." Kaede, his smile returning, simply shook his head. "Trust me, Itsuki. I'll live." ---- ## A Bold New Look Hana sat cross-legged on the couch, quietly sawing her violin as the soft notes filled the apartment. The warm sunlight filtered through the blinds, casting a gentle glow on the living room where she and Riko often spent their downtime. Riko was lounging on the floor nearby, flipping through an old magazine when she suddenly tossed it aside with a sigh, breaking the peaceful silence. "Hey, Hana," Riko said, leaning her head back against the couch. "Have you ever thought about... I dunno, changing up our stage costumes?" Hana paused mid-note, glancing down at her bandmate and sisterly companion. "Why? What's wrong with our costumes?" Riko shifted, hugging her knees as she thought it over. "I mean, don't get me wrong, I like mine... or I *liked* it. But the whole fluffy idol skirt thing-- it's played out. Like, I've been wearing that as a tribute to my mom for so long, and I just... I don't feel like I need to anymore." Hana set her violin aside. Riko rarely brought up her mom, Mana O Mana, the legendary J-pop idol who cast a long shadow over Riko's career. Riko's outfit had been a nod to that past, a homage to the larger-than-life idol world her mother had reigned over. "Are you sure?" Hana asked gently, always aware of how sensitive Riko could be when it came to her mom. "I thought that was important to you." Riko shook her head. "It was. But now... I just feel like it's not *me* anymore. I want to do something different, something that feels more like us, like *Moonlight Prism*. And besides, I feel like we should have a more unified look. You're always in white, and the rest of us are in black. It feels like we're in two different bands sometimes." Hana smiled at that. She had always loved her white gown-- the ethereal moon priestess aesthetic fit her introspective personality, but she had to admit, Riko had a point. Their bandmates, Itsuki and Kaede, often opted for dark outfits, and her luminous white stood out. It was a contrast, but maybe it was time for them to feel more cohesive. "I see what you mean," Hana agreed. "It does feel like we're all doing our own thing, fashion-wise. What did you have in mind?" Riko's eyes lit up as she sat up straighter. "I don't know yet, but we should brainstorm! Something new, something fresh. Something that feels modern but still cool and badass. We could flip through some catalogs for inspiration. I want something that'll make people say, 'That's *Moonlight Prism*.'" Hana nodded, her curiosity piqued. "Alright, let's do it." Riko sprang up, grabbing a stack of fashion magazines they'd accumulated over the years. Some of them were old, full of nostalgic looks from the idol and rock worlds they'd grown up with. Others were newer, showcasing trends and designs they hadn't quite explored yet. Hana scooted over, and the two of them began flipping through the pages together. For a while, they quietly pointed out various styles-- some retro, some avant-garde. But nothing seemed to really fit. It wasn't until Riko came across a section on techwear-- modern, utilitarian clothing often inspired by futuristic aesthetics-- that her eyes lit up. "Hey, check this out!" she exclaimed, pointing to a model dressed in an all-black ensemble of layered jackets, high collars, buckles, and straps, with a distinctly edgy vibe. "This... this could be it!" Hana looked over the image thoughtfully. "Techwear, huh? It's definitely different. And it's functional, too, with all those pockets and layers." "Yeah!" Riko said, excitedly flipping through more techwear looks. "It's stylish, but it's practical. We could move around easier on stage, and we wouldn't be stuck in one look. It's flexible, it's sleek, and it's unified-- black and silver, like our theme. No more cutesy idol skirts or random white gowns." Hana smirked at that. "You're really over the idol skirts, huh?" Riko laughed. "So over it. And this... this feels more *me*. It's bold, and it's different. We could all wear variations of the techwear style, but still keep our individuality. Like, you could still wear white if you want, but in a more modern cut. And maybe with some silver accents to tie it all together." Hana nodded, flipping through the pages as more ideas clicked into place. The idea of upgrading her stage persona, moving away from the flowing priestess gown to something more streamlined and modern, felt right. She could still retain her quiet, introspective energy, but techwear gave her the chance to experiment with a new, sleeker aesthetic. "I like it," Hana finally said. "It's different, but it still feels like us. And if you're ready to move past the tribute to your mom, then I'm with you." Riko grinned, excitement bubbling in her voice. "We're gonna look so badass. Moonlight Prism's about to level up!" With that decision made, the two of them spent the rest of the afternoon flipping through catalogs, taking notes on different designs, textures, and color schemes. Their vision for Moonlight Prism's new look was coming together, and it felt like a new era was on the horizon-- one where they could finally leave behind the lingering shadows of their past and step into something entirely their own. ---- Riko and Hana prepared to reveal their new stage costumes, having spent weeks designing and refining them, working with stylists to bring their ideas to life. Today, they were finally ready to show them off to Itsuki and Kaede. Hana stood by the mirror, adjusting her new outfit-- a sleek techwear ensemble that embodied her refined and introspective energy. Her tight-fitting black shirt hugged her body and tucked neatly beneath hakama-style shorts. A high-collared half-jacket, zipped up to the neck, completed the look, adding an air of mystery and elegance. She wore black gloves that extended halfway up her forearms, disappearing up the jacket's round sleeves, black tights that clung to her legs, and ankle boots with circular rims that gave her a futuristic edge. The hakama shorts were fastened with a subtle crotch strap, adding a touch of traditional Japanese influence to the otherwise modern ensemble. Riko, as usual, stood out with her flirty twist on the techwear theme. Her jacket was similar to Hana's but unzipped, hanging loosely around her shoulders. Instead of the modest shirt Hana wore, Riko sported a tight halter top that left her belly exposed, adding a bold contrast to Hana's silhouette. The same hakama shorts, ankle boots and black tights completed her look, but with Riko's signature mischievous flair. "You ready to show them?" Riko asked, looking over at Hana with a smirk. Hana nodded, smoothing her jacket one last time. "Let's do it." They both walked out into the main part of the rehearsal room where Itsuki and Kaede were waiting. Itsuki was lounging on a chair, casually scrolling through his phone, while Kaede stood with his arms crossed, quietly observing. When they noticed the girls approaching, Itsuki immediately put his phone away and raised an eyebrow in curiosity. "Whoa," Itsuki said, standing up and giving them an appraising look. "Now *that* is something. You two look incredible!" Kaede nodded in approval, his expression more subdued but appreciative. "Definitely a change, but it suits both of you." Riko twirled, her jacket fluttering around her as she struck a playful pose. "Yeah, it's time we switched things up, don't you think? We've been stuck in the same look for too long." Hana remained composed, standing straight with her hands at her sides. "We wanted something that felt more unified, more modern. What do you think?" Itsuki grinned. "I like it. But..." he trailed off, raising a finger and giving them a mischievous smile. "Where's mine? You're not leaving me out of the new look, right?" Riko laughed, as if she had been expecting that exact question. "Oh, don't worry, Itsuki. We knew you'd want something to match, so we've got something special for you, too." Kaede, meanwhile, shook his head, arms still crossed. "I'm fine with my usual look," he said, gesturing to his more subdued black jacket and pants. "I don't need all that flair." Riko nodded in agreement. "Yeah, we figured you'd say that. Your outfit already fits the vibe-- clean, professional, and it suits you perfectly. But Itsuki, on the other hand..." she turned to him, grinning, "we knew you'd love a chance to switch things up." With a dramatic flourish, Riko reached behind a nearby clothing rack and pulled out a hanger covered with a black garment bag. She unzipped it to reveal Itsuki's new costume: a techwear-inspired jacket, similar to the girls' outfits but with more elaborate straps and buckles. The undershirt was form-fitting, and the slim pants had a tactical design with layered textures and functional pockets, all in black and silver. Itsuki's eyes lit up as he inspected the costume. "Now *that* is more like it!" He took the jacket, holding it up with a look of admiration. "I was starting to worry you'd leave me in the dust. This is perfect." Riko gave him a teasing smirk. "I knew you'd like it. Go on, try it on." Itsuki didn't need any more encouragement. He grabbed the rest of the costume and disappeared behind the divider to change. Meanwhile, Kaede watched with a slight shake of his head, clearly not as easily impressed by all the theatrics. "At least someone's excited," Kaede muttered, though there was a hint of amusement in his voice. A few minutes later, Itsuki reappeared in his new outfit, the jacket gleaming under the rehearsal room lights. He struck a pose, clearly enjoying himself, while the girls gave him approving nods. "Okay, okay, I see what you're doing here," Itsuki said, doing a slow spin to show off the full look. "We're really going for the whole techwear squad thing, huh? I love it." Riko clapped her hands together, clearly pleased. "It's the new Moonlight Prism. Edgy, modern, and ready to take on the world." Hana smiled quietly, watching as their bandmates got into the spirit of things. The new look felt right-- it was a fresh start for all of them, and she was excited to see how it would play out on stage. "Now," Riko said with a grin, "let's see how this all looks under the stage lights. Time to rehearse!" ---- The crowd roared with excitement as the lights dimmed, and the opening beats of Moonlight Prism's signature sound began to pulse through the venue. Fans waved glow sticks in the air, their anticipation palpable. As the music swelled, the band members made their way onto the stage one by one, but tonight-- tonight, something was different. Riko stepped into the spotlight first, her new outfit catching the lights just right: the techwear-inspired jacket hanging loosely around her shoulders, her halter top baring her toned midriff, and the hakama-style shorts giving her a sleek yet edgy appearance. The cheers grew louder as Hana followed, her own new attire drawing gasps of approval-- gone was the flowing white gown. Instead, she wore a fitted black shirt, a zipped-up high-collared jacket, and the striking hakama shorts that gave her a poised, powerful air. The fans could barely contain themselves. Riko soaked it all in, standing at the front of the stage with a sly grin on her face as she waited for the applause to settle. She brought the microphone to her lips, her voice carrying over the crowd as she spoke. "Wow! I can tell by your faces you're all a little surprised, huh?" she teased, her playful tone drawing some laughs. "Honestly, you guys remind me of the first time I walked out here in that fluffy idol skirt. Some of you were probably just as confused back then, too!" The crowd roared with laughter, clearly remembering those days. Riko let them enjoy the moment before continuing. "I know, I know. You've seen me in that fluffy skirt for months--" she paused for effect, letting the memories of her Mana O Mana tribute sink in, "--and I wore it to pay tribute to my mom. Mana O Mana left her mark on J-pop, and I felt like I needed to honor that by covering some of her most iconic songs. It meant a lot to me, and it seems like it meant a lot to you, too." The crowd responded with a mix of cheers and nostalgic chants, showing their love for both Riko and her mother's legacy. "But here's the deal," Riko said, her voice growing a little more serious. "As much as I loved wearing that skirt-- and yes, I loved it for what it was-- it's time to push things forward a bit. We've grown as a band, and now, Moonlight Prism has to step into the next chapter." She paused, letting the audience hang on her words before flashing her mischievous grin again. "Which means... no more fluffy skirt." The fans booed playfully, knowing full well Riko was leading them on. "Hey, unless you all demand it back! I mean, if you *really* want it, we can talk about it!" she added, causing another burst of laughter and playful shouts from the crowd. "But tonight, we're doing something new." With that, Riko turned slightly and gestured to her right, toward Hana, who stood a few steps behind her. "And speaking of new..." Riko pointed dramatically. "What do you think of this?" The spotlight shifted to Hana, who dipped her head slightly, a quiet and humble acknowledgment of the cheers that erupted. The fans began chanting her name, their energy growing as they saw Hana in an entirely different light. Riko's grin widened. "I *knew* you'd love it!" she exclaimed, nodding toward Hana, who remained gracefully composed. "See? I've been telling you all for months that Hana's been hiding some serious *legs* under that dress she used to wear! Well, guess what?" She pointed to Hana's outfit, emphasizing the sleek hakama shorts. "Now you're going to be seeing a lot more of those legs!" The audience responded with wild cheers, clearly loving this new, confident side of Hana. "And look," Riko continued, holding up her arms as if to calm the crowd down. "This is just the start! We're not just changing our look tonight; we're pushing Moonlight Prism further. We're taking our music, our energy, our vibe-- not just across Japan, but to our international fans too!" The crowd went into a frenzy at the mention of going global, the glow sticks waving even more frantically. Riko's smile turned from playful to serious, a fire in her eyes as she looked out into the sea of fans. "Tonight," she said, "we're starting something new. So get ready, because this is the first step in taking Moonlight Prism to the world. We're going to make some noise. Are you with us?" The crowd erupted, their energy surging as the band prepared to launch into their set. Hana and Riko exchanged a glance, a shared understanding passing between them. This was the beginning of a new era for Moonlight Prism-- an era where they would step out from the shadows of their past and stride confidently into the future. ---- Backstage, the atmosphere of the concert still lingered in the air, the distant echoes of cheering fans blending with the muted sounds of crew packing up equipment. Hana stood near a folding chair, toweling off her face, a subtle yet serene smile playing on her lips. She felt different tonight-- more alive, more present, as if she'd crossed an invisible threshold. Itsuki and Kaede approached, both still in their stage outfits. Itsuki shot her a playful, yet intrigued look as they approached. "You were something else out there tonight," Itsuki said, leaning casually against the wall. "You didn't shy away from the attention at all, and the crowd was eating it up. They were hanging on every move you made." Hana looked up from her towel, a small blush creeping onto her cheeks, but she managed to meet his gaze with quiet confidence. "Thanks, Itsuki," she replied, her voice calm and steady. "I guess... I've been working on that a bit." Itsuki raised an eyebrow, curiosity flashing in his eyes. "Working on it, huh? What've you been up to? Some secret technique?" Before Hana could answer, Kaede, standing a bit to the side, interjected with a knowing glance at Itsuki. "Hey, don't pry too much." Hana chuckled softly and shook her head. "It's okay, Kaede. I don't mind explaining." She stood a little taller, her posture reflecting that newfound poise. "I've been practicing modeling... with Shizuka and Yuki. But it's not for, you know, any career plans or anything." Itsuki tilted his head, intrigued. "Modeling, huh? So, what's the deal? You planning to walk the runway with Riko someday?" His teasing tone made Hana laugh lightly. "No, nothing like that," Hana clarified quickly, though her smile lingered. "I've just been learning how to express myself better. You'd be surprised how much body language matters-- how you stand, how you move. Shizuka and Yuki have been showing me how to carry myself with more confidence. It's been... eye-opening." Kaede nodded thoughtfully, crossing his arms. "Well, whatever you're doing, it's working. You looked strong out there. Like you belonged on that stage." Hana glanced away for a moment, modest as always, but there was a warmth in her expression. "Shizuka's a really good mentor," she admitted. "She's taught me a lot-- more than I expected." Itsuki's eyes sparkled with mischief as he leaned in slightly. "So... when's my turn to get mentored, huh? Think Shizuka and Yuki will take me under their wing next?" Hana smirked, a rare but playful expression crossing her face. "I don't think you need that kind of mentorship, Itsuki." She paused, and then added with a knowing glance, "And I'm pretty sure Shizuka wouldn't have the patience to deal with your antics." Kaede snorted in amusement while Itsuki feigned a wounded look, dramatically placing a hand on his chest. "Me? Antics? I'm a perfect gentleman." Hana laughed softly, shaking her head. Itsuki grinned, clearly enjoying the banter. "Well, I guess I'll just have to work on my own, then. But hey," he added with a wink, "if you ever want to teach me some of those moves, I'm all ears." Hana gave him a sidelong glance, still smiling. "Maybe one day... when you're ready to behave." Kaede chuckled, watching the two with a faint smile. "Good luck with that, Itsuki." As the laughter settled, the three stood together in comfortable silence, the post-concert adrenaline finally starting to fade. Hana, in her quiet way, felt a sense of peace. She had grown, and it showed-- not just to the fans, but to herself. ---- In the dim, cozy light of their shared apartment, Hana and Riko lounged on the couch, legs stretched out, each holding a cup of tea. The hum of the city outside filtered through the window, and the quiet stillness of the evening allowed the two friends a rare moment to simply be together-- no rehearsals, no studio time, no stage lights, just them. Riko took a slow sip from her cup, glancing over at Hana with a nostalgic smile. "Do you ever think about how far we've come?" she asked, her tone thoughtful, almost wistful. Hana blinked, her mind pulled from its peaceful lull. "What do you mean?" she asked, looking at Riko with quiet curiosity. "I mean, Moonlight Prism. Us," Riko clarified, waving her hand as if gesturing to their entire journey. "I was so determined to make a name for myself and not just be 'Mana O Mana's daughter.' I hated the idea of being associated with her legacy... and now look at me." She laughed lightly. "I spent so much time fighting against it, only to realize... maybe it's not such a bad thing after all." Hana nodded, her gaze softening. "You've definitely found your own way. I think it's been good for you-- paying tribute to her but also making your own mark." Riko grinned and nudged Hana with her elbow. "You were pretty resistant yourself, remember? I think *you* were the one who got turned into a human sundae for our 'Sweet Revenge' music video." Hana groaned in mock embarrassment, covering her face with her hand as she chuckled. "Oh, don't remind me. That video still haunts me. I can't believe how viral it went." "It was awesome!" Riko said with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "You were practically an overnight sensation. The meme may be dormant now, but... it can always make a comeback, you know." Hana narrowed her eyes playfully, shaking her head. "Maybe your idol skirt will come back too," she teased. Riko let out a hearty laugh, the sound filling the room. "Touche, Hana. But seriously... we've both changed so much since those days." "We've definitely grown up a bit," Hana agreed, giving a small smile. The two exchanged a fond look, and Riko set her cup aside. She reached out her hand, and without hesitation, Hana took it. Their fingers intertwined, a silent gesture of the deep bond they shared. "You know," Hana began softly, her voice carrying the weight of her affection, "I couldn't imagine a better friend than you, Riko. You've been with me through everything." Riko's eyes sparkled, and her usual mischievous grin softened into something more genuine. "Same here, Hana. You're the best friend I could ask for. I just hope our closeness doesn't keep chasing away all the guys." Hana laughed, a soft sound that lingered in the air. "I wonder if we even need guys at all," she mused, her tone lighthearted but thoughtful. Riko smirked but shook her head. "I want to be with a guy one day. Just... someone who accepts this friendship of ours, quirks and all. Someone who understands that, no matter what, you're my other half,." Hana smiled warmly, understanding the sentiment completely. "I hope you find that person." They both leaned in, their foreheads nearly touching. In that moment, there was no need for words. The affection between them, deep and platonic, spoke volumes. Riko leaned forward, and Hana followed, their lips meeting in a soft, chaste kiss-- one that celebrated their closeness, their friendship, and everything they'd been through together. When they pulled away, Hana rested her head on Riko's shoulder, the comfort of the moment wrapping them both in warmth. "No matter what happens," Riko whispered, "we've got each other." "Always," Hana agreed softly, her hand still holding Riko's as they sat there, content in the silence of their shared understanding. ---- ## The Dark Star The lights dimmed, and a heavy bass throbbed through the venue, pulsing in sync with the crowd's anticipation. The silhouettes of the audience waved like an ocean, their energy buzzing through the air. They were waiting-- waiting for her. Her name was Fumiko Kurose, stage name Astra. She stood at the edge of the stage, her black asymmetrical outfit glinting under the scattered beams of violet and silver lights. One side of her skirt was jagged, the fabric clinging to her slender figure, while the other side flowed like a cape. Her messy black hair obscured one piercing gold eye, and her expression remained impassive. She scanned the crowd, her lips barely curled, somewhere between disinterest and curiosity. She lifted the microphone to her lips. The crowd roared in response, but Astra didn't give them the satisfaction of a smile. Her fans, of course, loved that about her-- the cold, distant star who seemed to exist beyond their reach. She was different, mysterious, untouchable. "Why are you all here?" Astra's voice cut through the noise like ice water, her tone flat, maybe even a little contemptuous. "I'm not here to entertain you. If that's what you want, you should've gone somewhere else." The audience only cheered louder, knowing full well that this was Astra's way. They came for the music, not for pleasantries, and her aloof demeanor was part of the package. They loved that she didn't pander to them like other idols did. She turned away from the audience slightly, her gaze slipping to the side as if they weren't worth looking at for more than a few seconds. "You came to hear me sing. So, I'll sing. Don't expect anything more." The crowd erupted again, hanging on her every word, even though those words felt like cold rejection. Astra didn't care if they cheered or booed-- it didn't matter. She was here for the music, just like she always had been. That's all that mattered. The heavy synths started, slow at first, building momentum like a storm about to break. Astra closed her eyes as the sound surrounded her, and then she opened her mouth to sing. Her voice, cool and detached, merged perfectly with the atmospheric beats, a trance-inducing melody that both soothed and electrified the audience. Astra's mind drifted back to her past, each note unlocking memories she'd tried to keep buried beneath the music. Back in high school, she had always been alone. *By choice.* She kept everyone at arm's length, suspicious of their intentions, unwilling to trust anyone. Most of her classmates avoided her, if not because of her standoffish attitude, then because of the sharp, curt way she spoke to anyone who dared approach. She didn't care about school clubs or social gatherings. She never attended parties or participated in group activities. *Why bother?* They were distractions, pulling her away from the one thing that really mattered: her music. While others wasted time trying to fit in or make friends, Astra was refining her sound, creating something no one else could understand. People called her abrasive, rude, unapproachable. Fine. Let them. She wasn't looking for approval. Then came the day she was scouted by an idol agency. She still remembered the meeting. The scout, with their slick smile and gleaming eyes, telling her she had the potential to become a star if she joined their idol group-- some group whose name she couldn't even remember. Astra scoffed inwardly as she hit a high note, the crowd swaying beneath her like a sea mesmerized by her every move. An *idol group?* As if she'd let herself become another product in a lineup of identical, smiling girls, dancing in sync, trying to outshine each other. She could already see the trap laid out for her, the promises of fame and success if she followed the script, if she let them mold her into someone she wasn't. *No, thank you.* She had declined the offer without a second thought. Her life wasn't about fame. It wasn't about giving the world a version of herself that wasn't real. The other girls in those groups might have had stars in their eyes, dreaming of becoming famous overnight, but Astra wasn't a fool. She had heard the stories, seen the way those girls ended up burned out or discarded when the world lost interest in them. Astra had already been building her own foundations-- her music, her voice, her escape, her truth. She didn't need a group or an agency to dictate her path. She'd make her own. And now, here she was, years later, on stage in front of a crowd that adored her for being who she was. The beat surged, building toward the climax of the song. Astra opened her eyes, her golden gaze sweeping across the enraptured faces in the crowd. They were here for her, not because she smiled and danced for them like a puppet, but because her music spoke to them in a way words never could. Her decision to finish school, to focus on her own growth instead of chasing fleeting fame, had paid off. She wasn't just an idol. She wasn't a passing trend. She was *Astra*, and her success was on her terms. As the song neared its end, the crowd's energy peaked, hands raised toward her as if they could somehow touch the distant star that she was. But Astra remained just out of reach, her voice floating above them, ethereal and untouchable. When the final note faded into the darkness, the crowd exploded in applause, but Astra merely turned away from them again, her back to the audience as if their adoration meant nothing. Without another word, she left the stage, the last echoes of her music still ringing in their ears. The show was over. She had nothing left to say. The music had said it all. She stepped backstage, the faint hint of a smile crossing her lips. This was her world, built by her hands, and no one could take that from her. She was Astra-- the star that refused to fall. ---- Astra sat in the back of the car, her arms crossed and her face set in her usual expression of disinterest. She glanced at her phone, scanning through the messages her manager had sent earlier, explaining the details of today's shoot. A photoshoot for her upcoming album, featuring Shizuka Minazuki-- the famous model and actress who, apparently, had some kind of affinity for working with independent artists. Astra scoffed, her thumb flicking the phone screen off. "Famous model, huh? Must have blown the entire budget on this," she muttered to herself. Her manager had already assured her it wasn't the case, though. Shizuka wasn't doing this for the money. "She allocates time to work with artists she finds interesting, as a way to pay it forward," her manager had said. "She's done it before, and she's interested in your work." Astra rolled her eyes. She didn't want to be anyone's charity case. She didn't need some famous face to lend her credibility. She had built her success on her terms, and this just felt like another reminder that people saw her as some struggling artist. But, Astra had already agreed to the shoot, and she wasn't about to back out now. She'd handle it like she handled everything else-- on her own terms. Her thoughts carried her to the moment she arrived at the studio. The lights, the cameras, the buzzing of assistants hurrying around. Astra exhaled sharply through her nose, tugging at her jacket as she walked toward the set. The room was bright, with simple, featureless backdrops set up for the shoot. There, she saw her-- Shizuka Minazuki. A petite, poised woman with lilac hair, standing quietly as she discussed something with the photographer. Even from a distance, Astra could feel the professionalism radiating from her. Shizuka was every bit the famous model Astra had expected. But when Shizuka turned and walked toward her, Astra braced herself for pleasantries she didn't want to partake in. "Hello," Shizuka greeted her calmly, her voice soft and confident. "I'm Shizuka. You must be Fumiko Kurose. It is a pleasure to meet you." Astra barely glanced at her. "Call me Astra," she replied flatly, resisting the urge to roll her eyes. She had nothing against Shizuka personally, but she didn't want this to be another of those empty exchanges that felt more like showbiz politics than anything real. Shizuka didn't seem fazed. "I'll make sure to live up to your expectations." Astra simply nodded. No small talk, no pointless compliments. She didn't need to hear about how excited Shizuka was to be part of this project. She had no interest in playing nice. But Shizuka threw her off her game. She didn't offer any more words. There was no forced conversation, no pandering. She simply turned her attention back to the photographer, adjusting her stance in preparation for the shoot. Astra blinked. She had half-expected Shizuka to keep trying, to coax her into some kind of dialogue. But there was nothing-- just calm professionalism. It felt strange. Astra wasn't used to people letting her be in these situations. They usually kept pushing, kept trying to pull her into their world, but Shizuka was... different. It irritated her, just a little, that Shizuka wasn't playing along. It was as if she had seen through Astra's prickly exterior and decided not to engage. A part of Astra appreciated it, but another part wanted to trade barbs with the uppity supermodel, but she was proving to be anything but. A session with the stylist later, the shoot began, and Astra slipped into her usual focus, her expression cold and detached while she posed for the camera. Shizuka moved beside her, graceful and composed, shifting into position with a kind of elegance that came from years of experience, matching the look Astra carried without being prompted by the photographer, seemingly knowing what the tone of the shoot required. The two of them barely exchanged words, but there was a rhythm to it, an unspoken understanding of how to make the shoot work. Still, Astra felt a growing tension. Not the usual frustration she had with people, but something more unsettling-- like she was being outplayed. Every now and then, Shizuka would suggest a short break, but not in a way that put Astra on the spot. It was subtle, like she was watching for signs of fatigue and acting accordingly without waiting for Astra to speak up. "Let's take five," Shizuka said calmly after a particularly long series of shots. Astra frowned but didn't protest. She was a bit tired, though she hadn't realized it until Shizuka said something. Astra found herself staring at Shizuka during these brief pauses. [What was her deal?] She wasn't the diva Astra had expected. She wasn't patronizing or fake. In fact, she didn't fit any of the preconceived notions Astra had about someone like her. And that bothered Astra more than anything. By the middle of the shoot, Astra was more aware than ever that Shizuka was the one quietly guiding the flow of the session, but without making it seem like she was in control. She wasn't bossy or overbearing-- she just... understood. Somehow. It was as if Shizuka knew exactly how to work with someone like Astra, and she wasn't trying to change her. She was letting Astra be herself. "Hey," Astra said during one of the breaks, her voice low. "Why do you do this?" Shizuka raised an eyebrow, her lilac eyes meeting Astra's gold ones. "Do what?" "This. You're a supermodel. I'm a stain on the wall. What's in it for you?" Shizuka tilted her head slightly, as if considering her answer carefully. "I've been where you are. And I know how hard it is to do things on your own. But someone gave me a chance, and here I am. So if I can help someone else make it to the next level, I will." Astra didn't respond immediately. She didn't like the idea of being understood so easily. But at the same time, she couldn't deny that there was something... genuine about Shizuka. She wasn't acting like a star doing charity work. She was just... being herself. "Thanks," Astra said, though the word felt foreign on her tongue. She wasn't used to thanking people for anything. Shizuka nodded, offering a small smile. "Let's finish this up." After the shoot resumed, Astra felt herself slowly relaxing, even though she couldn't quite explain why. Shizuka wasn't what she had expected, and that unsettled her-- but in a way that made her feel seen, not judged. It was a strange feeling, one she didn't know how to handle yet. ---- Astra sat on the edge of the empty studio, the sharp tang of sweat still clinging to her skin despite the cooling breeze from the fan nearby. The photoshoot had been long, but not unbearable, though she wouldn't admit that out loud. She crossed her arms, staring at the wall, lost in thought. The crew had mostly cleared out by now, leaving her and Shizuka alone to cool down. The famous model was leaning against the wall a few feet away, sipping from a water bottle, her lilac hair slightly damp from the day's work. There was an easy calm about her that irritated Astra in a way she couldn't quite place. She didn't like calm, especially not in someone like Shizuka. It was too controlled, too composed-- almost like she was waiting for Astra to make the first move. And for some reason, she did. "So," Astra started, her voice curt as usual, "why me?" She wasn't in the mood to beat around the bush, and it showed in her tone. "Why do a project with someone like me? What's the point?" Shizuka didn't react to Astra's rudeness, didn't rise to the bait. Instead, she simply turned her head slightly, looking at Astra with those calm eyes. "What do you want to know?" she asked softly, as if she hadn't just been insulted. Astra shifted uncomfortably in her seat, irritated that Shizuka wasn't playing into her attitude. "I already told you," she snapped, sitting up straighter. "Why me? What's so interesting about some indie artist scraping by, huh? You've got a million better things to do." Shizuka didn't answer right away. She took a slow breath, her eyes drifting away for a second as if choosing her words carefully. "You're right," she said, turning back to Astra. "You're staying afloat in your career. You've got a dedicated fan base, but let's be honest-- you're not exactly making waves. Not like you could." Astra scoffed, her lips curling into a bitter smile. "Wow, thanks for the pep talk. Really encouraging." Shizuka didn't flinch. She wasn't trying to sugarcoat anything, and Astra could see that. "Your music needs more attention," she continued, her voice steady. "You have something there, but no one's really looking. This shoot? My involvement? It'll get eyes on you for a moment. But it won't last. Once your album is out of the limelight, the attention will fade. That's how it works." Astra rolled her eyes, knowing Shizuka's assessment was painfully true. "I'm aware," she muttered. "Don't need you to tell me how this industry works." "But," Shizuka went on, her voice level, "I didn't do this just to shine a temporary light on you. I used this as an opportunity to suggest something more." Astra narrowed her eyes. "And what exactly is that?" Shizuka's gaze softened slightly. "Collaboration." Astra immediately bristled, her arms crossing tightly over her chest. "I'm not collaborating with some group that's sold out to the industry tycoons," she shot back, her voice dripping with disdain. "I don't care who they are." Shizuka nodded, unsurprised by Astra's reaction. "I didn't think you would," she said quietly. "But I wasn't talking about those groups." She reached into her bag and pulled out a small card, handing it to Astra. "Moonlight Prism," she said simply. "An alt-rock band. Their music's introspective. Different from yours, of course, but there's something in their sound that could work well with what you do." Astra glanced down at the card, scoffing again. "Moonlight Prism?" she repeated. "I've heard of them. They're not exactly my style." Shizuka smiled faintly, undeterred. "I didn't think they would be. But sometimes it's the differences that create something unexpected. You might not see it now, but I think there's potential there. The kind that lasts longer than a quick burst of attention." Astra stared at the card in her hand, the band's contact info neatly printed on it. She felt the familiar surge of irritation rising in her chest. "Don't tell me what to do," she snapped, her eyes flashing. "You just made a situation where I'd be a fool not to take your 'suggestion.' You really think you can push me into this?" Shizuka's smirk grew just a little, her eyes glinting with quiet satisfaction. "You're not a fool," she said calmly. "You'll do what you want. I'm just opening the door." Astra's grip tightened on the card. She hated that Shizuka had read her so well, hated that the famous model had maneuvered her into a corner without even trying. But at the same time, Astra knew that Shizuka was right. She was stuck, her career stagnant, and something needed to change. Whether she liked it or not, Shizuka had planted a seed. And Astra couldn't shake the feeling that she and Shizuka were on the same wavelength, even if Astra wasn't ready to admit it. "Whatever," Astra muttered, stuffing the card into her pocket. "I'll think about it." ---- ## Stepping Through an Open Door Astra stepped into the dimly lit Moonlight Prism recording studio, the faint hum of equipment and muffled sound of music filling the air. Her manager was already deep in conversation with Moonlight Prism's producer, both of them engrossed in discussing logistics and possible collaborations. Astra barely paid attention, her eyes scanning the room. She wasn't particularly excited to be here. This was just another stop on the unwanted journey Shizuka had sent her on. The band was already waiting for her: Hana, Riko, Itsuki, and Kaede. Each of them was seated in different corners of the studio, the room filled with their relaxed but palpable energy. Itsuki, with his characteristic playful grin, was the first to approach her. "Well, well, if it isn't the mysterious Astra," he said, his voice smooth and teasing. "I've heard a lot about you, and I gotta say, you're even more striking in person." Astra gave him a sharp look, cutting him off before he could continue his flirting. "Don't even start," she said, her tone icy. "I'm not here for that." Itsuki blinked, clearly taken aback by her bluntness, before chuckling awkwardly. "Ah, okay, straight to the point then. I like that." Hana, the quiet violinist, looked up from her seat, her brows furrowing slightly in surprise. But before she could say anything, Riko leaned forward with a mischievous smirk. "Looks like someone's a bit tsundere for Itsuki, huh?" Riko teased, her voice dripping with amusement. Astra growled, not even bothering to respond to the comment. She'd seen this kind of dynamic before-- loud, playful, teasing. It wasn't for her. She had no interest in getting to know these people beyond the necessary professional interaction. She wasn't here to make friends or have some forced connection. The conversation quickly hit an impasse. Riko's teasing wasn't working, and Itsuki had wisely decided not to push any further. The room fell into an awkward silence, broken only by the faint hum of the equipment. Hana, sensing the tension, quietly reached for her violin. Without a word, she lifted it to her chin, closed her eyes, and began to play. The sound that filled the room was different from the boisterous energy of Riko and Itsuki. It was soft, introspective, and soulful-- each note resonating with a quiet depth. Riko and Itsuki, the louder personalities of the group, seemed to relax immediately. Itsuki leaned back in his chair, closing his eyes, while Riko smiled, her mischievous energy fading into a more subdued expression. Kaede, who had been sitting quietly the entire time, remained still, as if the music had already lulled her into a peaceful state. Astra stood by the window, her back turned to the others, staring out into the city. She hadn't come here to bond or play nice, but she couldn't deny that Hana's music was something else. It was honest, and it spoke in the same language Astra had always tried to capture with her own music. It was the language of emotions-- ones that couldn't be put into words, only expressed through sound. She knew what Hana was doing; this was a quiet attempt to break the ice, to connect through music instead of words. And even though Astra was adamant it wouldn't work, she couldn't ignore that Hana was projecting something into the room, something Astra could recognize, something she could respect. [Is this violinist just like me?] she wondered. Astra's thoughts wandered to her own career. She had started out with the intent to share her true emotions with the world, to put herself out there in the only way she knew how-- through music. It was her way of being seen, of expressing the things she didn't know how to say, or did not want to say. But somewhere along the way, it felt like her voice had become drowned out. She was still creating, still putting out music, but it wasn't making the waves she had once hoped for. She stole a glance at Hana, whose fingers moved delicately over the strings of her violin. They had that much in common, whether Astra wanted to admit it or not. The room was still, the music filling every corner of the room. For the first time since Astra had arrived, she felt a sense of calm-- not because she was opening up, but because, for just a moment, there was an unspoken understanding in the room. Hana finished her song, the final notes lingering in the air before fading into silence. Astra didn't turn around. She kept her eyes fixed on the city outside, but her thoughts were racing. Riko and Itsuki were too loud for her, that much was clear. They weren't her type, and they never would be. But Hana? Kaede? There was something there, something quiet and steady that Astra could respect. After a long pause, Astra finally spoke, her voice low and grudging. "You two, the quiet ones. I'll give you a chance." She didn't look back at them as she said it, but the meaning was clear. She would not consider them friends, but she was willing to at least see where this went-- with Hana and Kaede, anyway. Hana didn't say anything in response, but there was a quiet satisfaction in the air, as if she understood exactly what Astra was offering. There was no need for words. The music had already done all the talking for them. ---- ## Difficult Collaboration Astra stood in one corner of the recording studio, arms crossed as she scanned the room with a cold, indifferent gaze. The atmosphere inside was tense, despite everyone's best efforts to keep things casual. The jam session had been going on for a while now, but it hadn't produced anything coherent-- just a mess of sound that grated on her nerves. Itsuki was strumming his guitar, experimenting with a few improvisations, throwing in riffs and melodies that clashed with the direction Astra wanted to take. His playful approach was clearly meant to loosen things up, but to Astra, it was nothing more than noise. The randomness of it all was frustrating. Kaede, on the other hand, kept a steady, measured beat on the drums. He was calm, composed, and clearly a professional, and Astra appreciated that. Kaede's precision was one of the few things keeping this session from completely unraveling. Hana, as usual, remained mostly quiet, her violin resting on her lap as she looked between the other members and Astra, searching for some unspoken connection. It was clear Hana was trying to feel things out, to find a way for their musical styles to mesh. But so far, nothing had clicked. Riko, the talkative one, had been trying to be patient, but Astra's coldness was starting to wear on her. Every time she tried to engage with Astra, even on a professional level, Astra's curt responses or outright silence chipped away at her patience. Riko plucked a few chords on her guitar, eyes narrowing as she turned toward Astra. "Look, I know we don't all come from the same musical background," Riko began, her voice straining with the effort of keeping her tone light. "But we're supposed to be collaborating here. It wouldn't hurt to loosen up a little." Astra barely looked at her, her focus drifting between her own equipment and the chaos of sounds around her. "I'm here to work, not to chit-chat," Astra replied bluntly, her voice cold and dismissive. Riko's smile faltered. "Yeah, I noticed. But part of working together is actually getting to know each other's styles." "I know your style. I've listened to your albums," Astra replied without emotion, adjusting a setting on her synthesizer. "That's why I'm here. I don't think you've done the same for me." "We *have* listened to your stuff," the singer said, a bit sharper now. "It's hard to get into the groove when someone's acting like they don't even want to be here." Astra's fingers paused over her equipment for a moment before continuing. "I'm here for professional reasons, not to make friends." The tension in the room thickened. Itsuki, who had been trying to keep the mood light, let out a frustrated sigh and stopped strumming. "Well, it's not going to work if we don't try to make some kind of connection. We're all just throwing stuff at the wall here." Astra said nothing, her frustration bubbling just beneath the surface. She wasn't used to this kind of chaotic, disorganized approach to music. Everything felt so scattered, so unfocused. She glanced at Kaede, whose steady drumming was the only thing keeping her from walking out. At least *he* was taking things seriously. After what felt like hours of disconnected noise, Hana, still sitting quietly with her violin, spoke up. "Maybe we should take a break," she suggested quietly. "Cool off for a bit. Get some air." Without a word, Astra was already unplugging her equipment. She didn't wait for the others to agree or say anything-- she simply stood up and headed for the door. The air inside the studio was stifling, and she needed to get out. Fast. As soon as she stepped outside, the cool breeze hit her, and she took a deep breath, trying to clear her mind. She walked a few paces away from the studio, her boots crunching on the gravel, her thoughts swirling. [Why am I even here?] she asked herself, not for the first time. Shizuka's push had brought her to this point, but as far as Astra was concerned, this collaboration wasn't worth the trouble. Moonlight Prism's alt-rock sound was too different, too loud, too scattered. She had expected that from the start, but being in the room with them, trying to force their styles together, had made it painfully clear how incompatible they were. The jam session had been a disaster, a cacophony of mismatched sounds and personalities that only served to irritate her more. She was tempted to leave right then and there, to walk away from this mess of a collaboration and never look back. The sound of footsteps behind her snapped her out of her thoughts. She turned slightly, surprised to see Kaede approaching her. He walked with a calm, steady gait, hands tucked into his jacket pockets. Astra hadn't expected anyone to follow her out, least of all Kaede. He stopped a few feet away, giving her space, and for a moment, there was only silence between them. Kaede was the type who didn't speak unless he had something worth saying, and Astra found herself momentarily grateful for that. "Does Itsuki need to be reigned in?" Kaede asked, his tone matter-of-fact. "I can arrange for it, at least while you're here." Astra's eyebrows furrowed at the unexpected question, and for a moment, she wasn't sure how to respond. Then, with a frustrated sigh, she crossed her arms tighter over her chest and turned to face him fully. "If we don't come up with something soon," she said coldly, "this collaboration will be over before it even starts, and you won't have to worry about keeping Itsuki in check." Kaede nodded slowly, unfazed by her curt tone. He had the kind of patience that didn't waver easily. "Maybe," he said, "but you're also a little too quick to throw in the towel. It hasn't even been a full day." Astra shot him a sharp look, irritation flashing in her golden eyes. "What are you saying?" Kaede leaned back against the wall of the studio, still calm as ever. "I'm saying, as someone who's been a session drummer for a lot of bands, I've seen clashes of personalities before. Musicians don't always get along, even in bands that've been together for years. Sometimes, it gets ugly. I've seen shouting matches, even fistfights." He shrugged, as if it were a simple fact of life in the industry. Astra's scowl deepened. "That story doesn't help," she said, voice edged with annoyance. Kaede chuckled softly. "No, I guess it doesn't." He paused, studying her for a moment before adding, "But I'm guessing this is the first time you've had to collaborate with other musicians. Am I right?" Astra's eyes narrowed, her jaw tightening at the suggestion. She didn't appreciate being analyzed, least of all by someone who was supposed to be on her side. "Don't lecture me so you can look like the good guy," she shot back, her voice cold. Kaede pushed off the wall, meeting her gaze with a calm intensity. "I'm not the good guy," he said evenly. "Trust me, I'm perfectly willing to throw hands if push comes to shove. Even you, if necessary." Astra's eyes flicked up, a small spark of surprise lighting her expression. She tilted her head slightly, a smirk tugging at her lips. "Is that so?" she said, her voice laced with dry amusement. "You're the one who got into the fistfight?" For the first time, Kaede's expression hardened. His lips pressed into a thin line, and he gave her a curt nod, acknowledging her guess without elaborating. Without another word, he turned and walked back toward the studio, his footsteps slow and measured, leaving Astra alone once again. Astra watched him go, her frustration still simmering beneath the surface, but now mixed with something else-- curiosity. His calm, unbothered demeanor had gotten under her skin, but his words lingered. She hadn't expected anyone in Moonlight Prism to understand her-- or even call her out on her own impatience. She let out a long breath, her thoughts swirling. Maybe Kaede was right. Maybe she *was* too quick to walk away from this. It wasn't like she had collaborated with anyone before, not on this level. She had always worked alone, creating music in her own bubble, without needing to navigate anyone else's personalities or creative visions. This was new territory for her, and she hated this feeling. ---- Astra pushed open the studio door, her earlier frustration still bubbling under the surface. She wasn't ready to give up, but every step back into that chaotic space felt like an exercise in patience she didn't have. As she walked through the hallway, her eyes caught sight of someone standing by the corner, and her mood sank when she realized it was Hana. Hana's quiet presence was different from the others. While Riko and Itsuki could barely keep still, Hana always seemed composed, her violin often cradled under her arm as if it was an extension of herself. Still, Astra wasn't in the mood for small talk-- she never was. Hana looked up, her soft gaze landing on Astra. "Hey, Astra." Astra stopped but didn't respond immediately. She was about to brush past her, but Hana spoke up again, almost casually. "You know," Hana said, "we went to Sunshine Academy at the same time." Astra turned to the violinist, her expression cold and dismissive. "That doesn't make us friends." Hana nodded, unsurprised by the sharpness in Astra's voice. "True. But I remember you had a bit of a reputation back then." Astra scoffed, crossing her arms as she leaned against the wall. "The scary loner type, right?" she said with sarcasm dripping from her words. "Abrasive, hard to approach? Is that what they said about me?" Hana shook her head, a small smile playing on her lips. "Not at all. What people talked about was your music." Astra blinked, momentarily caught off guard. She had expected Hana to bring up her abrasive nature, the way everyone else had over the years. The school disciplinary committee brought it up all the time. Her fellow students gave her a wide berth, and she was certain they were whispering about her behind her back. Instead, Hana mentioned her music, and it threw Astra off balance. "What about my music?" Astra asked, her voice still sharp but now tinged with curiosity. "I liked it," Hana said simply. "I still do. You had this way of expressing emotions through your sound that always felt real. Like you were opening up a part of yourself that no one else could touch. It's more than enough to get a feel for the kind of person you are." She lowered her head slightly. "My classmates in the music hall and I... we wanted to approach you, but your music told us everything we needed to know." Astra wasn't prepared for that. No one, outside of her fans-- faceless, distant people she never interacted with-- had ever spoken to her about her music like that. And here was Hana, someone she barely knew, claiming to see her through her music. The idea that Hana could see through her was unsettling, and yet... it pleased her. She wasn't sure why. "So," Astra said, still curt but with an edge of curiosity she couldn't quite hide. "What's your story, then? Why are you here, with this band?" Hana shifted slightly, her expression softening. "I was a music nerd, trying to get into a prestigious orchestra. I practiced day and night, but in the end, I didn't make the cut. So, I ended up here, playing violin for Moonlight Prism." Astra scoffed. "A violin in a rock band? And you're talking to me about music? You're deliberately out of place." Hana smiled at that, unbothered by Astra's jab. "Maybe. The violin's not traditionally part of rock, just like your trance and techno aren't part of ours. But that's where we can find common ground." Astra's skepticism showed in the slight narrowing of her eyes. "How do you figure that?" Hana gently adjusted the strap of her violin case, her fingers lightly brushing the instrument. "We're both expressing emotions-- maybe not the same emotions, but emotions nonetheless. Moonlight Prism is about more than just the music; we're creating an experience. You do the same with your sound. Adding your style doesn't take away from what we're trying to do-- it complements it." Astra's lips tightened as she considered Hana's words. The idea that their contrasting styles-- her atmospheric trance and Moonlight Prism's introspective rock-- could mesh seemed impossible, but Hana wasn't wrong about one thing. They were both expressing something deeper with their music. For the first time in the conversation, Astra didn't have an immediate retort. Instead, she regarded Hana more thoughtfully. There was no pretension in Hana's voice, no attempt to be liked or to smooth things over. Just an honest assessment of what music meant to her. "Complement, huh?" Astra finally said, her voice a bit quieter than before. "Guess we'll see." Hana nodded, sensing that was as much agreement as she was going to get from Astra. "We will." With that, the two stood in silence for a moment before Astra turned away, still processing what had just been said. Hana was right-- this wasn't about friendship or getting along. It was about the music. And if there was one thing Astra understood, it was music. ---- Astra stood at the control panel, her arms folded across her chest, watching the members of Moonlight Prism as her trance/techno track pulsed through the studio speakers. The steady rhythm of electronic beats, layered with atmospheric synths, filled the room. To her, it was a masterpiece-- crafted with precision and care to evoke a specific mood. She had put her emotions, her frustrations, and her isolation into this track. Now, she wanted to see if the others could pick up on that, or if they'd miss the point entirely. After the track finished, she glanced at each band member, gauging their reactions. Hana, as expected, was the first to speak. "It's... really powerful," she said, her quiet voice carrying an almost thoughtful weight. "I can feel the emotion in it-- there's a sense of longing, maybe frustration? It feels like you're searching for something." Astra nodded slightly, pleased but not surprised. Of course Hana would understand it. She was perceptive, if nothing else. Still, Astra didn't let it show on her face. Itsuki, on the other hand, leaned back in his chair, arms behind his head with an easy grin. "Yeah, it's got a good beat. Real catchy. I like it. Maybe a bit repetitive." Astra shot him a cold stare. "It's trance," she said, deadpan. "Repetition is part of the structure." Itsuki chuckled nervously. "Right, right. It's cool though." Astra closed her eyes and sighed. [Typical.] Then there was Riko. Astra watched her closely, knowing Riko's response was the one that mattered most. Riko crossed her arms, frowning slightly as if deep in thought. "I don't know," Riko said slowly, her brow furrowing. "I'm not sure how to approach this... from a singing standpoint." Astra's lips curled into a faint, almost smug smile. "Who said you were going to sing it?" Riko's eyes flashed, and she turned toward Astra with a sharp look. "What's that supposed to mean? If we're collaborating, I figured vocals were part of the deal." "Vocals are part of it," Astra replied, her voice calm but challenging. "I just don't think *your* vocals are the right fit." Kaede, who had been watching the exchange quietly, shook his head and pushed back from the drum set. "You know what? I'm gonna take five while you two sort this out," he said, standing up and stretching. "Maybe ten, or twenty, even. I've seen this kind of argument before, and it's not going anywhere fast." Riko, meanwhile, was not backing down. "Excuse me? You don't think I'm the right fit? Who else is going to sing it, then? You?" Astra smirked, clearly enjoying the provocation. "My voice fits the track better. You wouldn't know what to do with something like this." The air thick with unspoken challenges as Astra and Riko faced off. Their voices weren't that far apart in terms of range, but it was clear neither trusted the other enough to let them handle the track solo-- much less perform it together. Hana, sensing the rising tension, stepped in. "Okay, how about this?" she suggested softly but firmly. "Why don't we take a break and do something different? How about... karaoke? You can 'flex' your voices and maybe get a feel for each other's style that way." Riko blinked in surprise. "Karaoke?" Itsuki's face immediately lit up. "Oh, hell yeah! I'm down! Let's do it!" But Hana quickly cut him off, raising a hand. "No, Itsuki. This is just for Astra and Riko." Itsuki slumped in his chair, pouting. "Aw, come on..." Astra eyed Hana, then glanced back at Riko. A karaoke session wasn't what she had expected, but if it would help settle this back-and-forth, then fine. "Whatever," she muttered. "Let's just get it over with." The band quickly set up the karaoke machine in a smaller room in the building. Astra and Riko took turns singing their own songs first-- Astra's atmospheric techno numbers and Riko's alt-rock anthems. Hana, Itsuki, and Kaede sat off to the side, not paying attention to the actual karaoke scores but listening closely, judging the performance with their own critical ears. Surprisingly, the more they sang, the more it became clear that their voices, while different, actually complemented each other in strange ways. Astra's cold, distant tone meshed with Riko's raw passion in ways none of them had anticipated. When they each sang each other's songs, it was like hearing the tracks in a new light-- Astra's flat delivery gave Riko's songs a haunting, almost hypnotic quality, while Riko's emotional vocals injected Astra's trance tracks with a fresh energy. When the session ended, Hana, Itsuki, and Kaede huddled together for a moment before turning back to the two singers. "You know," Hana said softly, "you two might actually sound good together. Like, in a duet." Riko and Astra exchanged glances, neither willing to admit that they were intrigued by the idea. "I'm not singing a duet with her," Astra said flatly, folding her arms again. "I'm not sure we even need a duet for this," Riko added, almost at the same time. Kaede sighed, shaking his head. "Just try it. One song." Astra and Riko both groaned but eventually, begrudgingly, agreed. "Fine," Astra said. "But I'm picking the song." "No way," Riko shot back. "I'm picking the song." The bickering started again, picking up as if it never left. The two of them stood in the middle of the room, arguing over what song to sing, their voices rising as they fought over who got to choose. Kaede threw his hands up in exasperation. "Seriously? You're arguing over *this* now?" Hana chuckled softly, watching the two of them. "It's fine. Let them argue it out. They're learning to work together, even if they don't realize it yet." Astra and Riko, meanwhile, were too caught up in their argument to hear Hana's quiet observation. But somewhere, beneath the tension, it was clear that they were beginning to understand each other-- through music, through rivalry, and through their voices. Even if they couldn't see it yet, the collaboration was starting to take shape. ---- It was well past midnight, and the once-active studio was now nearly empty. Itsuki and Kaede had long since gone home, leaving only Astra, Riko, and Hana behind in the designated karaoke room. The low hum of the machine filled the air as the two rivals continued their "sing-off," their voices, both strong and slightly strained from hours of performance. Hana sat on the edge of a couch, nursing a bottle of water she had fetched not long ago, eyes heavy with fatigue but still watching them closely. Riko and Astra had been at this for *hours*. Their "war" of vocals had started as a tense back-and-forth, but now it was clear to Hana that it was more than just competition. It was how they were learning to understand each other-- through song, through rivalry, and through the simple act of wearing each other down. "One more!" Riko shouted, voice still carrying its usual playful edge, though it was clearly raspier than before. She grinned at Astra, who stood rigid, arms crossed, glaring in her usual curt way. "You're clearly at your limit," Astra said, her voice clipped, though her sharp exterior was starting to crack under the weight of exhaustion. Her hair was slightly mussed, and she had long since stopped folding her arms every time she spoke. Riko smirked, wiping a bit of sweat from her forehead. "Limit? I haven't even started yet. I could go all night." Hana sighed quietly to herself. [Of course she says that.] She had spent the last few hours not just listening to them, but also running around fetching water bottles when they demanded them, and even picking up takeout when the duo decided they were too hungry to continue on an empty stomach. Riko lived with Hana, after all, so there was no point in Hana going home early while Riko stayed behind to compete. Now, though, it was clear they were nearing the end. Their voices were still strong, but the wear and tear of hours of back-and-forth was showing. But despite the exhaustion, Astra and Riko refused to back down. "So noisy," Astra shot back, her gold eyes narrowing slightly as she pulled another bottle of water from the pile Hana had brought earlier. "You're screeching noise at this point." "Hey, I can still sing circles around you," Riko replied, though her voice betrayed the hint of strain creeping in. She shrugged, flashing a mischievous grin, clearly enjoying pressing Astra's buttons. It was a game for her, even now, to get under Astra's skin. "Maybe you should call it," Hana said softly, but with a firmness that made both of them glance her way. "You've been at this for hours. It's time to go home." Riko waved a dismissive hand. "Come on, Hana. I'm fine. I can keep going, I swear." Astra, still standing tall despite the weariness creeping in, sighed deeply. "If she wants to embarrass herself by pushing it, then let her." She crossed her arms again, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of her lips. "I won." "Won?" Riko scoffed, standing straighter. "This isn't over yet! We *still* haven't decided who's going to sing the track. How can you call this a victory?" "It's obvious. I won. You can't match the vibe of the track." Riko clenched her fists, clearly not ready to back down. "The vibe? You mean your emotionless drone? It's trance, not a funeral." Astra's smirk deepened, almost looking like a smile. "So noisy..." Hana could see they were both pushing themselves beyond reason, though neither would admit it. Their voices had become their way of fighting, like boxers exchanging punches in the ring. The difference was that their competition wasn't about hurting each other, but understanding, even if they didn't realize it yet. Each round of karaoke brought them closer to a begrudging respect. But it had gone on long enough. Hana stood up, her quiet presence commanding more attention than usual as she stepped between them. "Enough," she said firmly, surprising even herself with how assertive she sounded. "You're *both* going to sing it. Together." Riko blinked in surprise. "Hana?" Astra's eyes narrowed, though there was something less cold in them this time, something that almost resembled amusement. "That's ridiculous." "No, what's ridiculous," Hana continued, "is the two of you arguing for hours without realizing that you'd sound good together. You're both stubborn, you both have strong voices, and the best way to bring this track to life is for you to *both* sing it. And you're going to like it." Riko stared at Hana, wide-eyed. This was the most direct she'd ever seen her usually soft-spoken friend. Astra, meanwhile, remained silent, but the faintest hint of a smile was tugging at her lips. Riko, still taken aback, stammered, "I mean... it's not like I'm against it, but--" "But nothing," Hana cut in, her voice firm but gentle. "You're both singing, and that's final." Astra stared at Hana for a moment, considering whether to challenge her, but instead she let out a small, almost inaudible chuckle. "I see." She glanced at Riko with a challenging look. "But you need to keep up." Riko shot back a grin. "Wouldn't have it any other way." Hana sighed with relief as the tension in the room finally eased. It wasn't exactly a truce, but it was a step forward. And maybe, just maybe, Astra and Riko could channel their rivalry into something powerful-- something that would bring the collaboration to life in a way neither of them could do alone. As the karaoke machine wound down, Hana picked up the empty takeout containers and turned off the TV. The night had been long, and she was more than ready to go home. But as she glanced at Astra and Riko, who were now exchanging ideas about the track instead of insults, Hana felt a small sense of victory herself. ---- Astra sat at the edge of the studio, arms crossed, her golden eyes narrowing as she watched Itsuki casually strum his guitar. The studio had been filled with tension for hours, and it wasn't showing any signs of easing up. They had all been working on refining the track for what felt like an eternity, but the friction between Astra and Itsuki had brought them to a halt. Hana, seated next to Astra with her violin resting gently on her lap, had suggested using her instrument to guide the musical journey-- something everyone agreed upon, including Astra. It had helped set a mood, one that Astra was pleased with. But then came Itsuki. He wanted a moment to let loose, to express himself through the guitar, maybe add a solo or a flourish. Astra, who was more accustomed to the precise, structured sounds of her trance music, was adamantly against it. "Noisy," Astra had said bluntly, her expression cold and unmoved. "It's too noisy. It ruins the flow." "But I *need* something to work with," Itsuki argued, fingers still lightly plucking at the strings. "I can't just stand there strumming the same chords over and over. I need a moment to shine. You've got Hana on the violin, and Riko with her vocals. What do I have? A riff?" "He's right," Riko chimed in, leaning back in her chair. "Itsuki needs a part to express himself. You can't just smother him under the structure." Kaede, who had been quietly watching from his spot behind the drum kit, nodded. "Even I have a section where I can bring in some flair. You've got to give him something." Astra's lips thinned into a line as she glared at Itsuki. She didn't like the idea of losing control of the track, especially not to a chaotic guitar solo that could overwhelm the delicate atmosphere she had worked hard to create. It wasn't that Astra didn't respect Itsuki as a musician-- she did-- but she wasn't ready to let him run wild on this track. The tension hung in the air until Itsuki let out a sigh and put his guitar down. He realized that Astra wasn't going to budge with words alone. But he had another idea. "Alright, fine," Itsuki said, standing up. "You know what? Let's take a break. Come with me, Astra." Astra's eyes narrowed. "Why?" "Because I'm buying you coffee." The room went silent as everyone processed what he said. Astra looked at him, unamused. "You think coffee is going to change my mind?" "No," Itsuki replied with a grin, "but it's going to get us out of this studio so we can talk like normal people instead of glaring at each other from across the room." Astra sighed heavily, clearly not interested in the idea but relenting nonetheless. She stood up and grabbed her coat. "Fine. Let's go." ---- The cafe was quieter than the studio, the soft hum of conversation and the clinking of mugs providing a more relaxed atmosphere. Astra sat across from Itsuki, her arms crossed as she stared out the window, giving him the cold treatment she was known for. Itsuki was used to it by now. "I'm not here to flirt or ask you out," Itsuki began, breaking the silence as he stirred his coffee. "I'm not interested in that. I just wanted to get us out of the studio so we could talk for real." Astra closed her eyes for a moment, then opened them to look at him. "Then talk." Itsuki took a breath, choosing his words carefully. "Look, I know we have different styles. You're precise, you want everything structured and in its place. I know that, and I respect it. But for me, the guitar is my way of expressing myself. It's what I bring to Moonlight Prism. It's how I show what I'm feeling." Astra remained silent, her gaze unwavering. "I love playing the guitar," Itsuki continued. "I love expressing myself through how I play. It's my voice in the band. Hana's got her violin, Riko's got her vocals, and even Kaede gets to show off his drumming skills. I need something too. I'm not asking to take over the track. I just want a moment to let loose, to show what I can do." Astra's eyes flicked to him, her expression still hard to read. She let out a quiet sigh. "Hana said the same thing to me. About how she expresses herself through her violin." "Right, and you do it through your music," Itsuki said, leaning forward a bit. "We all have our own way of doing it. But if we're going to make this track work, we need to let everyone have their moment. Even Kaede, who-- let's face it-- is the most buttoned-up guy I've ever met, has a way of showing what he's feeling through his drumming. Why can't I?" Astra sighed again, leaning back in her chair. "You're so noisy." Itsuki chuckled. "I get that a lot." There was a long pause between them before Astra finally relented. "Fine. Do what you want." Itsuki blinked, surprised. "Wait, really?" "I'm not going to stop you from expressing yourself," Astra said, her voice clipped as usual, but with a hint of understanding. "Don't lose the emotions I've put into it." A small smile spread across Itsuki's face. "Deal. I promise I won't drown out your feelings." Astra gave a short nod, her expression softening, if only slightly. "Good." ---- Back in the studio, there was a noticeable shift in the atmosphere. Itsuki returned with a renewed energy, a grin on his face, and Astra, while still her usual curt self, seemed less rigid than before. The tension between them had eased, and as the band began to play through the track again, Astra allowed Itsuki to add his solo, watching carefully as he poured his heart into the guitar. Hana glanced at Astra as they played, her violin weaving through the melody, and she smiled to herself. It wasn't always easy to get everyone on the same page, but moments like this-- when they found a way to express themselves together-- made it worth it. ---- Astra stood silently in the studio, arms crossed, her sharp gold eyes scanning the equipment and the other members of Moonlight Prism as they prepped for their first true collaboration. They had been working for weeks, navigating their differing styles-- her trance and techno influences and their alt-rock roots-- but now, finally, the pieces were starting to fall into place. Hana sat at the far end of the room, gently tuning her violin. The rest of the band had already fallen into a rhythm: Itsuki was strumming his guitar, not quite playing but letting his fingers glide across the strings, while Kaede tapped a gentle beat on her lap, her drumsticks resting at her side. Riko, of course, was the loudest, casually bantering with Astra from her place behind the microphone. The atmosphere was comfortable, charged with an unspoken anticipation. But Astra remained focused, distant, as she always did. Her trance-driven mind was already mapping out the song in her head-- each rise and fall of the melody, every layered synth, every pulse of the beat. She didn't show it, but the thought of mixing her atmospheric, emotive sound with Moonlight Prism's raw rock energy both excited and unnerved her. There was something unpredictable about it, something alive. "Alright," Itsuki called out, sensing the tension growing in the room. "Let's give it a run." Hana lifted her violin to her shoulder, and the room fell silent. Astra nodded, her hands moving to the synth pad in front of her. The opening chords were hers-- soft, ethereal, a series of slow-building arpeggios that seemed to shimmer in the air. As the music swelled, Hana's violin joined in, her notes gliding smoothly, guiding the song forward like a beacon cutting through the fog. Riko stepped up to the microphone next. Her voice, husky and full of raw emotion, layered over Astra's synths. She didn't sing words at first, just melodic hums, letting the music lead her. She let the music move through her like a wave, riding it to wherever it took her. Astra watched from the corner of her eye, her fingers deftly adjusting the synth, layering new elements of sound-- rising pads, a pulsing bassline. The trance influence was there, but it wasn't overpowering. It was guiding, shaping the song's emotional journey in a way that felt natural, unforced. It took everything in her not to demand more control, but she held back, letting the rock elements breathe. She knew this collaboration was about balance. Itsuki's guitar came in next, and Kaede followed with a slow, steady rhythm on the drums. The rock side of the song began to emerge, blending seamlessly with the trance. Hana's violin soared above it all, her playing more like a voice than an instrument. The sound was cinematic, like the soundtrack to an epic dream. Then it was Astra's turn. Her voice, cool and distant, cut through the layers of sound. It contrasted with Riko's warmth, but instead of clashing, the two voices wove together, creating a tension that felt electric. It was like a conversation between two opposites-- Astra's introspective, almost detached delivery against Riko's passionate, grounded singing. The call-and-response between them heightened the song's emotional pull, pushing and pulling in a delicate balance. The song built slowly, like a slow-burning fire. Each section brought a new layer of intensity, with Astra and Riko's vocals dancing between Hana's violin and the rock foundation provided by Itsuki and Kaede. By the time the chorus hit, the room was alive with sound-- Astra's trance elements swirling around the powerful riffs and crashing drums of Moonlight Prism. But it was in the bridge where everything truly came together. The music dropped to near silence, leaving only Hana's violin and a soft synth pad from Astra. The notes were delicate, almost fragile, as if the song itself was holding its breath. Then, slowly, Riko began to sing, her voice soft and intimate, pulling the listener into the song's heart. Astra joined her, their voices merging into a haunting harmony that felt both beautiful and sad. As the bridge swelled, the rest of the band came back in, layer by layer, building the song to its emotional peak. Itsuki's guitar took on a more melodic role, Kaede's drums growing in intensity. The trance elements began to pulse stronger, Astra's synths driving the song forward with a sense of urgency. The final chorus exploded with energy-- Riko and Astra's voices in full harmony, Hana's violin soaring above them, the guitar and drums providing the power beneath. And then, just as quickly as it had built up, the song began to fade. Hana's violin carried the outro, a soft, melancholic melody that echoed long after the final note was played. The room fell into silence, and for a moment, no one spoke. The song had taken them somewhere-- somewhere deep, somewhere emotional-- and they all felt it. Riko let out a breath, breaking the silence with a grin. "Okay, that was... something." Astra stood still, her face unreadable as always, but there was a flicker of something in her eyes. She didn't say anything for a long moment, but when she did, her words were simple. "It'll work." Hana nodded. She could feel it too. The song had found its sound-- a delicate balance between the emotive, atmospheric world of trance and the expressive energy of rock. It was their first true collaboration, and they had found their voice. Astra and Moonlight Prism had something unique now. They knew where to go next. "Let's keep this momentum going," Itsuki said, standing and stretching his arms. "I'm ready for more." "Yeah," Riko chimed in, her mischievous grin returning. "But next time, I get to sing the opening. Can't let Astra steal all the spotlight." Astra didn't even bother replying, but there was the faintest hint of a smile tugging at the corner of her lips. ---- ## Putting the Collaboration to Air The studio felt different that day. There was a weight to the air, something unspoken that lingered between the members of Moonlight Prism and Astra as they lounged on the couches of the break room, waiting. After weeks of collaboration, late nights, and long recording sessions, the five released what they felt was their headlining song-- 'Meditations on the Moon'-- out in the world. It was the first of their trance-rock fusion tracks to go public. Riko paced back and forth, restless energy bubbling just under the surface. "I dunno, guys... What if this was a mistake? What if the fans don't like it? What if they think we've, I don't know, sold out or something?" Itsuki leaned against the wall, casually twirling his guitar pick between his fingers. "Relax, Riko. The song's killer. It's different, sure, but we've always taken risks. This is just... another one." "I agree," Kaede added, his arms crossed. "And risks are part of being an artist. We pushed ourselves, and that's what matters." Hana sat quietly with her violin resting on her lap. She didn't share Riko's visible anxiety, but she understood it. This collaboration had taken their usual introspective alt-rock sound and added layers of atmospheric trance, courtesy of Astra. For long-time fans of Moonlight Prism, this was a big departure from what they were used to. Still, Hana believed in the song. "Our fans will still hear the heart of the music," Hana said, her soft voice cutting through the tension. "The introspective experience we always bring is still there. It's just... wrapped in something new. Trust the music." Riko let out a shaky breath and nodded. But despite her friends' reassurances, she was still nervous. Astra, as usual, stood off to the side at the lounge's small bar, watching the scene unfold with her typical distant air. She wasn't involved in the back-and-forth, and she hadn't been since the song had gone live. Her hands were in her pockets, her sharp golden eyes half-lidded, as if she wasn't fully present. Hana noticed Astra's silence and subtle distance. After everything, Astra still seemed detached, as if this whole process was more of a task to complete than something she was truly invested in. Walking over, Hana stood beside Astra and asked, "What's on your mind?" Astra didn't respond at first, her gaze still fixed on the floor. Finally, she shrugged, offering a curt, "It's fine." Hana studied her, sensing there was more Astra wasn't saying. But she wasn't one to press when someone didn't want to talk. She accepted the response with a nod. "Okay." Despite Astra's cool demeanor, Hana knew this collaboration meant something to her-- perhaps not in the same way it did for Moonlight Prism, but Astra had poured her own artistry into this. It wasn't just a job. The tension in her posture said more than her words ever could. ---- Early in the morning, the five of them gathered again-- this time at a cafe, tucked into a corner booth. The first music magazine reviews were about to drop, and their phones were buzzing constantly with social media pings and mentions. Riko was anxious, scrolling endlessly through her feed, while Kaede pretended to be engrossed in his coffee. Finally, Riko's eyes widened. "The reviews... they're out." The table went silent. Astra, sitting on the far end, looked up, mildly curious but still composed. Hana and Itsuki leaned in as Riko began reading aloud. "Okay, this one's from *Tokyo Soundwaves*," Riko said, her voice trembling. She read slowly, carefully. "'Moonlight Prism's latest collaboration with trance artist Astra, 'Meditations on the Moon', takes the band in a bold new direction. The fusion of introspective alt-rock with trance elements creates an atmospheric journey that feels both ethereal and grounded. Riko's husky, emotional vocals contrast beautifully with Astra's cool, detached harmonies, while Hana's violin serves as a poignant guide through the soundscape. The risks taken here pay off in a big way. This track proves Moonlight Prism is unafraid to evolve.'" Riko's breath hitched as she lowered her phone. "That... that's good, right?" Itsuki grinned. "Hell yeah, that's good! They love it!" Even Kaede couldn't help the slight smile that tugged at his lips. "I think we pulled it off." Riko scrolled through a few more reviews, each one echoing the same sentiment: the track was a daring departure from Moonlight Prism's usual sound, but it worked. Astra's trance influence added a new dimension to their music without sacrificing the introspective heart that had always defined them. Hana glanced at Astra, who remained silent, her eyes fixed on her phone. She was scrolling through her own reviews now, the ones from her core fanbase. Her own followers were praising the track for its emotional depth, something they hadn't expected from a collaboration with a rock band. But Astra's expression didn't change. She had known her fans would accept it; they were used to her experimenting with different sounds. What had always been in doubt was whether Moonlight Prism's fans would embrace it. And now that the reviews were out, and they had-- the relief was palpable among the group. Except for Astra. The members of Moonlight Prism leaned in as Riko opened up the trending tab for Moonlight Prism's fan page. The response was overwhelming. Most fans were praising the track, some calling it a bold step forward for the band, others appreciating how the collaboration had added a new layer of emotional depth to their music. A few were hesitant, unsure of the trance elements, but even those comments were filled with curiosity rather than outright rejection. Riko let out a long sigh of relief. "They... they like it. They really like it." Itsuki chuckled, nudging Riko's arm. "Told you." Even Hana's calm demeanor cracked slightly, a small smile playing on her lips. "Our fans trust us. I knew they would." As the others celebrated quietly, Astra sat back in her seat, crossing her arms over her chest. Her eyes flicked toward Hana, catching the violinist's gaze for just a moment before she quickly looked away. She hadn't doubted her own abilities, nor that her fans would accept this. But she had underestimated Moonlight Prism's audience. They weren't as close-minded as she had expected. There was a long pause before Astra finally spoke again, her voice quieter than usual. "It was... a good collaboration." ---- Astra moved around the studio with swift, deliberate movements, her bag half-packed on the floor. The once vibrant space, which had echoed with the sounds of creation-- of collaboration-- now felt empty and quiet. She shoved her notebooks, a few stray cables, and her tablet into the bag with more force than necessary, as if trying to erase every trace of her time working with Moonlight Prism. 'Meditations on the Moon' had been a success. The collaboration was over. The album would surely sell beyond expectations. Her job was done. It was time to go. She zipped the bag shut and slung it over her shoulder, ready to leave without looking back. But as she headed for the door, she froze. Hana was standing there, leaning lightly against the doorframe, as if she'd been waiting. "You're leaving already?" Hana asked softly, her voice gentle. She wasn't surprised, and yet there was a quiet sadness in her eyes, the kind one only saw when you already knew the answer. Astra's posture stiffened. "My job's done. So, I'm leaving," she replied curtly, refusing to make eye contact. She tried to brush past Hana, but the violinist didn't move. Hana wasn't confrontational-- she never was-- but she wasn't about to let Astra go that easily. "You're not leaving because the job's done," Hana said. "You're running away." Astra stopped in her tracks, her body tense as a string. She didn't turn to face Hana, her back to the door. "Don't--" she started, her voice low and dangerous. "Don't put words in my mouth." "I'm not," Hana replied. "I'm just telling you what I see. You enjoyed working with us-- more than you're willing to admit. And now, you're scared. You're afraid if you stay, you won't ever leave." Astra's fingers curled into fists at her sides, her knuckles white. She grit her teeth, her anger rising. "Stop it." Hana didn't back down. "You usually work alone. You don't have anyone close, no friends to rely on. But with us, with Moonlight Prism, you felt something different, didn't you? And now, you don't know how to handle it." Astra's breathing was sharp, the tension in her body palpable. Her voice shook with anger when she spat, "Shut up." But Hana continued, her voice still calm, still kind. "You don't like what you're feeling. You don't like the idea of... belonging, of being a part of something more than just yourself. So, your only answer is to run away, to get as far away from us as possible." "I said shut up!" Astra's voice cracked this time, louder, sharper. But she didn't turn to face Hana. She couldn't. Hana sighed softly, stepping a little closer, her presence a quiet comfort. "I've been paying attention, Astra. I saw you during that karaoke battle with Riko. I saw how much fun you were having, how you were pushing yourself. You were holding back, though. I know your range is much bigger than what you usually show in public. You could sing Riko's songs if you wanted. You could sing with us. And you could stay. If you don't want to be a full member of Moonlight Prism, that's fine. But you don't have to leave. There's still place for you at Prism Productions. We can collaborate on more songs-- on whatever you want. You could still be a solo artist if you wanted." Astra clenched her jaw, her back still to Hana, her eyes fixed on the floor. "I don't want... to stay," she said, but her voice wavered. It wasn't the defiant, cold tone she wanted it to be. "Just... shut up." Hana could hear the cracks in her voice, the cracks in the walls Astra had built around herself. She could see how much Astra was struggling, fighting against something she couldn't name, something that terrified her. Astra's shoulders began to shake, the anger in her words faltering as they came out in a choked whisper. "I told you to shut up..." But she didn't move. She didn't leave. Each time she tried to speak, her voice broke, until the words finally stopped, and all that was left was the sound of her quiet, trembling breaths. Hana didn't push her any further. She could see that Astra was at her limit, that the walls she had built around herself were starting to crumble. So instead of speaking, Hana simply stepped closer, her presence warm and steady. "You don't have to say anything," Hana said quietly, offering her hand, though she knew Astra wouldn't take it. "You don't have to decide anything right now. Just... don't run. It's okay to stay." Astra stood frozen, her head lowered, her fists still clenched. She was shaking, trying desperately to hold herself together, but Hana had already seen through her. She had read her like a book, just like she did before, and that supermodel Shizuka Minazuki before her, and Astra hated it. She hated people seeing past her attitude, able to see her insecurities and everything else she hid from the world. She hated how vulnerable she felt, how exposed she was. But she couldn't bring herself to leave. She couldn't bring herself to push Hana away. So instead, she stood there, her breath uneven, the tears she refused to let fall burning behind her eyes. Hana didn't say anything else. She simply waited, her hand still extended, offering comfort without judgment, without expectation. Astra knew she wasn't alone anymore. Even if she wanted to be. She hated it. She hated how much she wanted to stay. But at the same time, she was tired. Tired of running. Tired of pushing everyone away. She stayed-- silent, trembling, but still there. Hana stayed with her, her quiet presence enough for now. They didn't need to say anything more. The choice was already made. ---- ## A Place to Start Anew Astra stood in the middle of her new work space, her arms crossed as she surveyed the room. It wasn't large-- just a small corner studio carved out for her within the Prism Productions complex-- but it was hers. The walls were lined with soundproof padding, brand new equipment sat on a sturdy desk in front of her, and a few strategically placed LED lights cast a soft glow across the room. Her gaze lingered on the equipment for a moment, and she allowed herself a small, satisfied smile. After weeks of negotiating, she had finally accepted a position under the production company behind Moonlight Prism. She wasn't part of Moonlight Prism itself-- she had made that very clear-- but she was now, technically, part of the "Prism family." And that meant something, even if she wasn't ready to admit it out loud. "I didn't sell out," she muttered to herself, her voice a little too sharp for the empty room. "I'm just... taking advantage of what's being offered. They've got money to throw around, so why not take it? My fans will understand. I'm doing it for them as much as for myself." The words sounded hollow, even to her. But it was a script she had been repeating to herself ever since she had signed the contract. Framing it in terms of personal gain made it easier-- easier to ignore the nagging voice in the back of her mind that told her she wasn't being entirely honest with herself. She liked working with Moonlight Prism, even if she pretended not to. And the truth was, a part of her had wanted to stay from the very beginning. She finally understood why that supermodel, Shizuka Minazuki, pushed her in Moonlight Prism's direction. It wasn't for something as simple as collaboration, it was a way to get her career back on track. Or rather, put her career in a position where it can grow to the potential Shizuka believed it had, and Astra wished for. Astra shook her head, pushing the thought away. She wasn't here to get sentimental. She was here to make music, to push boundaries, to experiment with sounds that she couldn't have created on her own. She wasn't "selling out." She was evolving. Her eyes drifted over to the equipment again. Top of the line. She could do so much with it-- create sounds, layers, atmospheres that her old setup could only dream of. Her fingers itched to start. But just as she reached for her headphones, Hana's voice echoed in her mind. *"I know your range is much bigger than what you usually show in public. You could sing Riko's songs if you wanted."* Astra clenched her jaw, the memory of that conversation still fresh. Hana had been watching her-- paying attention, analyzing her. And it bothered Astra that Hana consistently saw through her. It wasn't like she didn't want to sing; she just didn't want to be an idol. She didn't want to turn out like those girls who gave up their futures for a fleeting shot at fame. She wanted something consistent, controllable, and within her power. But even as she tried to dismiss the thought, Astra found herself hesitating. She looked at the equipment again, but this time, her focus wasn't on the synthesizers or the mixers. Her gaze drifted toward the microphone standing innocently in the corner of the room, waiting. [Ridiculous,] she thought, but her feet moved toward it anyway. Before she could talk herself out of it, she set her bag down and took a seat in front of the console. She stared at the blank screen for a moment, her fingers hovering over the keys. She had a beat in mind. Something simple. It had been sitting in the back of her mind for a while, unspoken and unheard. She hadn't played it for her fans, hadn't shared it with anyone. Not even herself. Astra set the beat down, letting it loop through the speakers. The rhythm was soft, pulsing, almost hypnotic. She closed her eyes, letting the sound wash over her. It was a different kind of beat than what she usually made-- more introspective, more emotional. It wasn't for the clubs, wasn't for the big crowds. It was just... for her. And then, before she could stop herself, she started to sing. The words came slowly at first, quiet and hesitant, like a whisper she hadn't realized she'd been holding back for too long. Her voice wasn't like the cool, distant persona she projected on stage. It wasn't the edgy, aloof Astra that her fans saw. This was something else. Something more vulnerable. The lyrics weren't complicated. They weren't even fully formed. But they were real. They were hers. She sang about the moon, about being alone, about drifting through space without a tether. She sang about fear-- about the fear of staying, of letting herself be seen. About running away, and not knowing how to stop. Her voice cracked in places, faltered in others. But she didn't stop. She let the words flow, let the emotion guide her. And for the first time, she wasn't thinking about her image, about how her fans would perceive it, or how it would sound on the radio. For the first time, she wasn't performing. She was just singing. When she finally stopped, the room was quiet, save for the soft hum of the equipment. Astra sat there for a moment, her hands trembling slightly as they rested on her lap. She hadn't realized how much tension she'd been holding in her body until now. Her eyes drifted to the screen in front of her, where the track was still recording. She could see the waveform of her voice, jagged and uneven, but undeniably real. She hadn't meant to sing. She hadn't meant to... feel anything. But Hana's words had stuck with her, and now, sitting here in the quiet confines of her small workspace, she realized that maybe-- just maybe-- Hana had been right. Astra leaned back in her chair, staring at the ceiling, her mind still reeling from the unexpected release. She didn't know what she was going to do with the song. She wasn't sure if she'd ever let anyone hear it. But for now, it was enough to know that it existed. For now, it was enough to stay. ---- The stage was set, the lights dimmed, and the hum of anticipation electrified the air. Moonlight Prism's concert was about to begin, and the crowd-- filled with die-hard fans of both the band and Astra-- was already chanting, waving their glowsticks in rhythmic unison. The atmosphere was charged, ready to ignite. The four members of Moonlight Prism appeared first, stepping into the soft glow of stage lights. Each of them wore black techwear outfits with silver trim, the material catching the light in flashes as they moved. The techwear looked sharp, futuristic, and functional, covering them from head to toe-- except for Riko, whose midriff-baring outfit, paired with an unzipped half jacket, gave her look a daring edge. Her silver hair gleamed under the lights as she strutted to the front of the stage, confidence radiating from her with every step. The crowd roared, and Riko raised her hand to settle them just enough to speak. Her playful grin widened as she took in the sight of so many waving glowsticks, the sea of eager faces awaiting her words. "Good evening, Tokyo!" Riko's husky voice rang out over the speakers, immediately whipping the crowd into another wave of cheers. She chuckled, letting them have their moment, then raised her hand again. "It's a beautiful night, isn't it? And we've got something special for you tonight-- a musical journey, one you might not have expected." The crowd quieted just a bit, hanging on to her every word. "Now, we know there's been talk," Riko continued, pacing back and forth as she spoke. "A lot of *talk* about our new sound. How it's different from what we've done before, how it's got that... trance vibe." She let the word *trance* roll off her tongue, a playful smirk on her face. "But listen, music is all about evolving, right? It's a journey, and every journey takes you somewhere new." The audience cheered in agreement, a wave of excitement rippling through them. "And let me tell you something," Riko said, pausing dramatically. "When we started working on this new sound, even *we* were en'tranced' by it." She paused again, letting the pun sink in, and the crowd erupted into laughter and cheers, appreciating the playfulness in her tone. "But," Riko added, her eyes gleaming with mischief, "I know some of you might be here because you've heard we've got someone *very* special joining us tonight." The crowd's energy peaked, knowing exactly who she meant. Glowsticks waved more furiously, and the volume increased as the anticipation built. "Yeah, you know who I'm talking about," Riko teased, walking back toward the center of the stage. "She's been standing right there with us through this whole journey-- our partner in crime on this track, our trance queen. Let me introduce you to the one and only... Astra!" The spotlight swiveled to the side of the stage, illuminating Astra as she stepped forward. The crowd roared louder, the energy in the room reaching a fever pitch. Astra was dressed in black and silver techwear like the others, but her outfit had a distinct flair of rebellious asymmetry. One leg was left bare while the other was covered in black tights, and her jacket hung off one shoulder, her other arm not even in the sleeve. It was sass and attitude personified, exactly what Astra's fans had come to expect. Astra gave the crowd a curt nod, her usual death glare aimed out toward them-- just enough to keep up her aloof, standoffish persona. Normally, she would've said something, a sharp word or two, but tonight she decided to stay silent. She knew her presence, her mere glare, was enough. The crowd loved her for it, cheering louder as glowsticks flashed and waved wildly in the air. Riko turned to face her, grinning wickedly, clearly enjoying putting Astra on the spot. "What do you think, folks? Think she's ready to take you on an adventure?" The crowd roared again, their excitement building, and Riko laughed, turning back to the sea of faces. "Well, I hope you're all ready for this, because we're about to take you to the moon and back! Let's start this thing!" With that, the opening notes of 'Meditations on the Moon' began to play, the deep, pulsing rhythm sending a wave of energy through the venue. The lights dimmed, and the stage was bathed in soft blues and silvers, evoking the tranquil glow of moonlight. The crowd went wild, their glowsticks flickering like stars in a night sky, swaying to the music. The track built, the trance-like beats weaving in with the introspective alt-rock sound Moonlight Prism was known for. The blend of their worlds became clear. It was different, but it was powerful, and it was theirs. Riko's voice cut through the melody, her husky vocals carrying the introspective weight that Moonlight Prism fans adored, while Astra's atmospheric beats created an ethereal undercurrent. The fusion of trance and alt-rock felt seamless, as if it had always been meant to be. The audience was completely enraptured, their cheers becoming one with the music as they let themselves be swept away on this new adventure. The music soared and the glowsticks waved like a galaxy of stars. It didn't matter where Moonlight Prism had been before or where Astra had come from. Together, they were taking their fans somewhere new-- somewhere only they could reach. =========================================================================== This story is written with heavy AI assistance. Astra is heavily based on Luca Ikaruga from The Idolmaster Shiny Colors, mostly because she really stands out. The biggest takeaway is she is rather unpleasant to be around, which really inspired how I wanted Astra to go as a character-- someone who is deliberately abrasive, a loner, and rather standoffish. That's exactly what her fans like (which is why her intro has her deliberately insulting them, because she has attitude). I've had her have some one-on-one time with each member of Moonlight Prism to show how they handle her, or at least, tolerate her, with Riko deliberately pushing her buttons to Hana reading her like a book (not surprisingly Shizuka did this as well; Hana learned from the master). Whether she joins Moonlight Prism proper or not is up in the air, but she has at the very least joined Prism Productions, which for the time being will likely not change her solo status very much, save she has better equipment. ~ Razorclaw X