Prism Isekai - Tales of Atheria

Chapter 6 - To Live and Die in Atheria

The high-level raiding guilds decide to tackle the supposed final dungeon, the Celestial Temple, where Moonlight Prism's trust and abilities are put to the test.

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## Playing Politics

A month after their dazzling debut, Sunshine Prism found themselves in a rhythm – alternating weekend concerts with Moonlight Prism in Melody Haven's central square. Sakura, however, couldn't shake off a nagging feeling. The crowds for their upbeat J-pop concerts were consistently larger than those for Moonlight Prism's melancholic rock. More importantly, the returning adventurers who formed a significant part of the audience seemed visibly energized by Sunshine Prism's music.

"See, Aoi!" Sakura exclaimed after a particularly enthusiastic performance. "Our music is working! We're inspiring these adventurers! We need to capitalize on this momentum."

Aoi, the voice of reason, furrowed her brow. "Capitalize on it how? We're all Level 90 now, Sakura. That's impressive, but..."

"But Hana, Riko, Shizuka – they all hit Level 99!" Sakura spat out, frustration lacing her voice. "They're part of the elite now, sitting pretty in their fancy new headquarters while we're left out!"

Hikari, the mediator, chimed in. "Okay, but wouldn't that just be... another shepherding program? Like the one that helped us reach Level 90?"

Sakura waved a dismissive hand. "This is different! Now we're Sunshine Prism! Popular idols! We can convince high-level adventurers to join forces, help us grind up to Level 99 too!"

Aoi frowned. "Sakura, wouldn't that be... exploitative? Using our fame to leverage others?"

Sakura's eyes narrowed. "It's the only way! Did Shizuka even extend an invitation for the Celestial Temple raid? No! They're acting like this is their private mission. We have to... sidestep them, with our popularity as our weapon."

Hikari bit her lip. Sakura did have a point. Being left out of the loop about the Celestial Temple raid gnawed at them. But using their fame to manipulate others felt... wrong.

"There has to be a better way," Hikari mumbled.

"There isn't!" Sakura insisted. "We either play this game by our rules or get left behind! Think about it – with enough high-level adventurers by our side, we might even have a shot at convincing the raiding guilds to let us have a seat at the table."

The room hung heavy with a tense silence. The sweet melody of their newfound success seemed to sour, replaced by a discordant note of ambition. Sunshine Prism had a choice to make – play the game by the rules set by others, or rewrite the melody itself.

----

The air crackled with a nervous energy as Sunshine Prism stood at the entrance of the Magma Tanker dungeon, clad not in battle gear, but in their dazzling idol outfits. The temperature of the fire elemental-themed dungeon was only made bearable by the amount of skin their costumes let them show.

Three towering figures stood beside them – high-level adventurers, renowned for their prowess and recruited through the sheer power of Sunshine Prism's celebrity. The plan was simple – the girls would sing, buffing the adventurers with their music, while the adventurers did all the monster-slaying.

Sakura beamed. "Alright, idols! Let's show these monsters the power of song!"

Aoi shot her a skeptical look. "This feels... wrong, Sakura. Like we're cheating."

Hikari chimed in. "Think of it as... an experiment, Aoi. See if it works."

The adventurers, gruff but professional, nodded curtly. Music filled the air as Sunshine Prism launched into an upbeat song. The adventurers, invigorated by the melodic power-up, charged into the dungeon, a whirlwind of steel and magic.

The girls followed cautiously, their eyes wide as the adventurers cut through hordes of fire elementals with practiced ease. All they had to do was sing, their voices weaving a tapestry of buffs that kept the adventurers energized and protected. It was... strange. They weren't fighting, not directly. They were cheerleaders, albeit ones leading a brutal ballet of violence.

After what felt like an eternity, they emerged from the dungeon, battered adventurers and slightly breathless idols in their wake. The adventurers, surprisingly jovial after their ordeal, gave each other high fives, took pictures with their idols, and departed to spread the world at the tavern.

"Well," Sakura panted, a triumphant grin on her face. "That worked! We leveled up without breaking a sweat!"

Aoi, however, couldn't shake off the unease. "It did work," she admitted begrudgingly. "But... I don't know. It feels hollow. Like we didn't actually earn it."

"It's not as if we did absolutely nothing like that 'shepherding' program," Sakura pointed out. "We buffed them. That's our contribution to the group."

"That's true," Aoi conceded, "but it feels like a waste for all three of us having our buffs overlap the way we just did this run."

Hikari, thoughtful as ever, offered her own suggestion. "Maybe we could... compromise? We form our own parties, level grind separately. Each one of us is responsible for buffing our own party, with none of us stepping on our toes, and our parties have more damage dealers to boot."

Sakura considered this. "That could work! We'd become... a self-sufficient Idol adventuring squad!"

Aoi couldn't help but smile. "Sunshine Prism: monster slayers by song, united by friendship. Now that's a story I can get behind."

----

The Melody Haven marketplace buzzed with activity, but in a secluded corner, a different kind of deal was brewing. Mina, the jester with a knack for the unorthodox, stood amidst a group of burly adventurers, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

"Alright, warriors," she declared, her voice ringing with theatrical flair. "Do you crave adventure? Do you dream of conquering dungeons with... legendary heroes?"

The adventurers exchanged curious glances. "Legendary heroes?" rumbled a battle-scarred warrior with a greataxe strapped to his back.

Mina grinned. "Even better! I offer you the chance to party up with... Sunshine Prism!"

Sakura, Aoi, and Hikari, clad in their adventuring gear rather than their usual idol outfits, stood stiffly behind Mina. This was a new tactic, courtesy of Mina's ever-active mind. They were here to "sell" the opportunity for high-level adventurers to run dungeons with their favorite idols.

"You heard right!" Mina boomed. "Imagine the bragging rights! You'll be slaying monsters alongside the chart-topping idols who inspire you! Not to mention..." she leaned in conspiratorially, "the exclusive access to their powerful musical buffs!"

Aoi nudged Sakura, suppressing a smile. This was certainly unorthodox. But the adventurers seemed intrigued. Whispers rippled through the group.

"Sunshine Prism buffs? Now that's an incentive," muttered an Archmage, his eyes gleaming with a mix of excitement and hero worship.

Sakura stepped forward, her voice firm but friendly. "We're forming our own dungeon parties, each tackling different challenges. We can offer buffs, camaraderie, and of course, the satisfaction of conquering a dungeon alongside us."

An avalanche of questions followed. What dungeons were they tackling? What kind of buffs did they offer? Who would pay for the dungeon runs?

Hikari took charge, outlining their plans and pricing structure. They'd each run a different elemental dungeon suited to their skillsets, offering varying levels of difficulty and cost. Mina, their enthusiastic "manager," handled the negotiations.

To their surprise, the adventurers were enthusiastic. The combination of dungeon loot, bragging rights, and a chance to run alongside their idols proved irresistible. Soon, Sunshine Prism found themselves booked solid, each running their own party through their chosen dungeons.

The benefits were undeniable. They were leveling up fast, their pockets were filling with dungeon spoils, and most importantly, they were gaining a loyal following among high-level adventurers. The adventurers, in turn, were singing their praises throughout Melody Haven, creating a wave of positive publicity.

One evening, after a particularly successful run, the girls debriefed with Mina over steaming mugs of tea.

"This is brilliant, Mina!" Sakura exclaimed, a triumphant grin on her face. "We're gaining levels, income, and... well, fans!"

Aoi chuckled. "Who knew hero worship could be so lucrative? And surprisingly efficient for grinding."

Hikari chimed in. "This network of high-level adventurers could be invaluable in the future. Remember, we still need leverage to get a seat at the Celestial Temple raid table."

Sakura nodded, a determined glint in her eyes. "That's right! Shizuka and the others might not see us as equals now, but with enough clout behind us, they'll have to take notice. We'll become a force to be reckoned with, not just on stage, but on the battlefield as well."

----

Disbelief hung heavy in the air as Hana, Riko, and Shizuka finished reading the newsfeed. A holographic projection, courtesy of a nearby messenger crystal, displayed a bubbly announcement from Sunshine Prism. It wasn't the usual energetic concert announcement, but something entirely different.

"Exciting news, Prism Fans!" Sakura's voice, dripping with saccharine sweetness, echoed from the projection. "Want to experience the thrill of a real dungeon run alongside your favorite Idols? Now's your chance! Sunshine Prism is offering a limited-time experience: conquer challenging dungeons with us and gain valuable experience towards level 99!"

Hana furrowed her brow. "Selling dungeon runs? That's..."

Riko interrupted before Hana could finish. "Actually, it's pretty clever! Think about it, Hana. They're leveraging their fame to not only level up themselves but also build camaraderie with high-level adventurers."

Shizuka, however, remained silent, her gaze fixed on the projection. When she finally spoke, her voice was low and laced with suspicion. "It's not just about camaraderie, Riko. They're targeting high-level adventurers – building influence. Sakura is aiming for a seat at the Celestial Temple planning table."

A wave of realization washed over Hana. "So that's it! She wants a voice in the raid strategy even though... well..." Hana trailed off, unable to finish her thought. Neither Sakura, Aoi, nor Hikari had any real raid combat experience to speak of.

Riko huffed. "That's right. They shouldn't be throwing their weight around in the planning stage, let alone participating in the raid itself!"

A knot of anger tightened in Hana's stomach. Regret gnawed at her. Maybe Sakura had apologized, but this stunt proved she hadn't truly changed. "I can't believe it," Hana muttered, her voice heavy with disappointment. "We forgave them... and this is what they do?"

Shizuka rose from her chair. "We can't stop them from selling their services, but we can ensure their influence is limited. We'll approach the guild leaders and make it clear that combat experience and fulfilling needs should be the sole factor when selecting raid participants."

A sense of grim determination settled over the trio. Hana swallowed her anger, channeling it into a renewed focus.  The Celestial Temple raid, already fraught with danger, was about to become considerably more complicated. Sunshine Prism's unexpected move wasn't just a publicity stunt; it was a calculated power grab.

----

The aroma of freshly baked bread hung heavy in the air as Hikari browsed the Melody Haven marketplace. Her fingers trailed over a rack of colorful scarves when a familiar voice stopped her cold.

"Fancy seeing you here, Hikari."

Riko stood before her, her usual warm smile replaced by a chilling indifference. Fluffy, perched on Hikari's shoulder, puffed up her fur defensively.

"Riko," Hikari stammered, a knot of unease forming in her stomach. "How... how have you been?"

"Busy," Riko replied slowly. She looked at Hikari up and down. "It seems you've been busy yourself. How does it feel, selling yourselves out like this?"

Hikari frowned. "Selling ourselves out? What do you mean?"

"Don't play coy, Hikari," Riko's voice hardened. "Charging adventurers exorbitant fees to run dungeons with their 'idols'? It's a far cry from the genuine heroism you once aspired to."

Hikari's heart hammered against her ribs. "That's not selling out! We're offering a service, and the adventurers are happy to pay for our buffs and... companionship."

A hollow ring echoed in her own words. Even Fluffy, usually oblivious, seemed to deflate slightly on her shoulder, as if in agreement with Riko.

Riko sighed, a flicker of something akin to pity crossing her features. "What happened to you, Hikari? We were all so proud of the person you were becoming."

Hikari bristled. "I haven't changed! We're just doing what we have to do to reach Level 99."

But the defiance rang false even to her own ears. A seed of doubt had been planted.

Riko's expression softened. "Just be careful, Hikari. Especially Sakura. She's playing a dangerous game. You know about the letter, don't you?"

Hikari froze. "What letter?" she managed, her voice barely a whisper.

Riko's eyes narrowed. "Don't pretend you don't know. The one where Sakura confessed to placing the anonymous bounty on Shizuka. You know, the same Shizuka who is hailed as the Protector of Melody Haven?"

The weight of revelation crashed down on Hikari. Hana and Riko had proof, written proof that could shatter everything they'd worked for.

----

As the last strains of their practice session faded, a tense silence settled over the rehearsal room. Aoi, chewing her lip nervously, glanced between Hikari and Sakura. Hikari finally took a deep breath and spoke, her voice trembling slightly.

"Sakura, we need to talk about... how we're leveling up."

Sakura, wiping sweat off her brow, looked surprised. "What about it? Mina's system is working perfectly! We're gaining levels and popularity at a fantastic pace!"

"But at what cost?" Hikari countered. She blurted out before she could lose her nerve, "Riko told me. Hana still has your letter."

Sakura froze. The color drained from her face. "What letter?" she mumbled, her voice barely a whisper.

"The one where you confessed to placing a bounty on Shizuka," Hikari answered. "You know, the Protector of Melody Haven, the town we're currently in."

Sakura flinched as if slapped. A wave of emotions – regret, anger, fear – swirled across her face. "They still have that letter? I wrote that a long time ago! Why would that surface now?"

"Don't you get it, Sakura?" Aoi interjected. "Shizuka's a hero. She single-handedly saved Melody Haven from those rogue adventurers who came for the bounty. No matter how popular we get with our Idol work, we can't erase the fact that you tried to hurt her!"

Sakura slumped into a chair, her shoulders slumped in defeat. "This is a nightmare," she muttered. "We have to get that letter back."

Hikari, however, stood firm, her voice quiet but resolute. "No, Sakura. We can't keep playing this game. Not just with the letter, but with everything."

Sakura's head shot up, a flicker of defiance igniting in her eyes. "What do you mean? All this, the concerts, the dungeon runs, it's working! We're almost Level 99, famous in Melody Haven! You don't want that?"

"Of course I want to be successful," Hikari retorted. "But not like this! We can't build our careers on a foundation of lies and deceit."

"The letter!" Sakura hissed, desperation creeping into her voice. "If that letter gets out, everything we've built crumbles! Our careers, our reputation..."

Hikari shook her head, sadness replacing the anger in her voice. "Everything we've built, Sakura? Or everything you've built on a foundation of bad choices? Being idols was supposed to be about something more, about inspiring people with our music. Now we're just... opportunists."

Silence hung heavy in the air. The image of three friends, united in their dreams of heroism and music, seemed to be fading away, replaced by a discordant melody of ambition and betrayal.

Sakura opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out. The weight of Hikari's words pressed down on her, a truth she couldn't deny.

----

## Under the Table Politics

The flickering candlelight cast grotesque shadows on the walls of Mina's makeshift office, a cluttered corner of the Rusty Nail tavern. Sakura, her jaw clenched tight, leaned across the rickety table, her eyes narrowed in anticipation.

"Alright, Mina," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "How much leverage did I buy with those... idol concerts?"

Mina, perched atop a stack of dusty barrels, her usual flamboyant attire replaced by a more subdued leather jerkin, took a long drag from her pipe, blowing out a smoke ring shaped suspiciously like a skull.

"Well, Sugarplum," she drawled, her voice raspy. "Your strategy... well, it's certainly unorthodox. But unorthodox can sometimes get results."

"So?" Sakura pressed. "Results? Numbers?"

"Alright, alright," Mina chuckled, a puff of smoke momentarily obscuring her face. "Three out of the four major guild leaders are... intrigued: Nordic Twilight, Sun Kings, and Midnight Order. They like the idea of a popular idol backing their raid party. Gives them a bit of a publicity boost, you see."

Sakura's face fell. "Three? What about the fourth? And what about the rest of the town? Surely they'll see the value of having an idol on their side!"

Mina shook her head, the skull-shaped smoke ring dissipating. "The Steel Viper guild seems only interested in raiding; they're mercenary like that, I guess. The town? Honey, the town worships Shizuka. She's practically a living legend here. Single-handedly stopped three whole raid groups, after all. Your concerts might be the talk of the marketplace, but when it comes to the Celestial Temple, Shizuka's got the hearts and minds."

Sakura slammed her fist on the table, making the candle flicker wildly. "There has to be a way! Shizuka's in our way, Mina. We need her out of the equation."

Mina raised an eyebrow, a flicker of concern replacing her usual amusement. "Out of the equation? Sakura, we're talking about the Protector of Melody Haven here. Are you sure this..." she gestured vaguely, "is the image you want to project as a pop idol?"

Sakura leaned back, her voice laced with a steely resolve. "Mina, listen. This isn't sunshine and rainbows behind the scenes, alright? It's a game. I was a star idol back on Earth, I know how it works. You eat or get eaten. Hana and Riko understand that much, that's why they're playing it safe with Shizuka. But we..." she met Mina's gaze head-on, "we can play smarter. We just need to figure out how to remove Shizuka permanently."

Mina stared at her, the playful glint in her eyes replaced by something akin to fear. The air crackled with unspoken tension. Outside, the sounds of the bustling tavern faded away, replaced by a chilling silence.

"Sakura," Mina said finally, her voice low and grave. "That... that doesn't sound like the path to pop idol stardom you've been telling everyone about."

Sakura's face hardened. "Maybe not. But it's the path to power. And sometimes," she leaned in conspiratorially, "the only good villain is a dead villain."

A cold dread settled over Mina. The cheerful idol persona Sakura projected seemed to melt away, revealing a ruthless ambition that sent shivers down her spine. Perhaps, she thought, she had underestimated the lengths Sakura would go to to achieve her dreams. Now, they were both entangled in a twisted game with potentially fatal consequences.

----

The rhythmic tap of Mina's boot against the rough wooden floor of the Rusty Nail tavern echoed in the smoky air. Sakura, hunched over a table, chewed her lip nervously as Mina surveyed the patrons with a practiced eye.

"Alright, Sugarplum," Mina said, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "The bards are on it. Rumors are already swirling faster than a pixie caught in a hurricane."

"Excellent," Sakura hissed, a glint of determination in her eyes. "What kind of rumors?"

"The juicy kind, of course," Mina chuckled, leaning closer. "Whispers about Shizuka's 'mercenary past'. You know, the whole 'selling her services to the highest bidder' thing."

Sakura nodded curtly. This was the first step in their plan: to tarnish Shizuka's reputation amongst the very people she was supposed to be leading – the adventurers. 

Mina continued, her voice laced with a mischievous glint, "Oh, and I threw in a little nugget about her supposed 'greed' for katanas. How she hoards legendary blades like a dragon guarding its gold."

"Brilliant!" Sakura exclaimed, a smile finally breaking through her tense facade. "Two legendary katanas, the Moonlight Herald and Obsidian Annihilator – why would one hero need six katanas anyway, right? Especially when most adventurers manage just fine with two at most."

Mina grinned, smoke curling from her pipe. "Plant a seed of doubt, and watch it grow. Soon, those guild leaders will be questioning Shizuka's motives. Is she truly the selfless hero she portrays, or just another treasure-hungry adventurer masquerading as a protector? The best part of it is this rumormill was always out there. The rumors just needed to be kicked back into public consciousness, is all."

Sakura's smile widened into a triumphant smirk. Shizuka, the legendary Asura, the invincible Protector of Melody Haven – she was about to become a target of suspicion, a liability in the eyes of the very people whose support she needed for the Celestial Temple raid.

"This is just the beginning, Mina," Sakura said, her voice hardening with resolve. "We'll turn Shizuka from a hero into a pariah before they even set foot in that temple."

Mina chuckled, a low, throaty sound. "Just remember, Sugarplum, whispers can be just as deadly as katanas. Sometimes, the sharpest weapon is a well-placed rumor."

A shiver ran down Sakura's spine. The thrill of their plan was undeniable, but Mina's words carried a dark undercurrent that made Sakura pause for a fleeting moment. Was this truly the path she wanted to take? But the image of Shizuka standing in her way, the embodiment of everything she strived to achieve, quickly banished the doubt.

No, Sakura thought, her jaw clenching. This was necessary. Shizuka had to be removed from the equation. Sunshine Prism, not some legendary mercenary with a hoarding problem, would be the heroes who emerged victorious.

----

## A Place to Sing and Dance to Inspire

Aoi spotted Hana across the bustling marketplace, her heart doing a nervous flip-flop. Ever since entering Melody Haven to master the Idol class Hana had been studiously avoiding them. Aoi, however, needed to talk. Taking a deep breath, she approached Hana, her voice hesitant.

"Hana... hey."

Hana whirled around, surprise flickering in her moonlit eyes. A strained smile played on her lips. "Aoi. Congratulations."

Aoi flushed. "Congratulations on what?"

"Reaching Level 99, of course," Hana said, her voice clipped. "Quite the... unconventional path you took."

Aoi's cheeks burned even hotter. "Well, yeah, but we're all Level 99 now, just like you guys."

Hana's eyes narrowed. "Indeed. Though I daresay your path... involved fewer dungeon runs and more... well, escorting services."

Aoi squirmed under Hana's gaze. "That's not how it was! We were just... offering our buffs and support."

Hana let out a humorless chuckle. "Of course. And Sakura certainly seems to have a need for it these days."

Aoi bristled. "Sakura has everyone's best interests at heart! We all want to participate in the Celestial Temple raid and use our music to inspire the adventurers."

Hana raised an eyebrow, a flicker of suspicion in her gaze. "Inspire them outside the raid, perhaps. But inspiration doesn't unlock doors or slay monsters inside the dungeon, does it?"

Aoi bit her lip. This was exactly why she was uncomfortable. "But... Sakura says she wants to be a hero, a beacon of hope for everyone!"

Hana sighed, a hint of sadness in her voice. "Being a hero outside the dungeon and inside are two very different things, Aoi. You think cheerful melodies will hold back a horde of demons? Or soothe a raging dragon?"

Aoi's stomach twisted uncomfortably. Hana was right. Their current path hadn't actually prepared them for the raid itself. Sakura's plan relied heavily on inspiring the adventurers, but what about them? What about their own skills and capabilities?

A cold dread seeped into Aoi. She looked at Hana, seeking some assurance, some hint of a better plan, but all she saw was concern and a question hanging in the air.

"So, Aoi," Hana said, her voice gentle but firm. "Are you even sure you want to go in there? Or are you just... going because everyone else is?"

Aoi looked down at her shoes, unable to meet Hana's gaze. The question hung heavy, a discordant note shattering the cheerful melody of their idol dreams. For the first time, Aoi truly faced the reality of their path – a path that hadn't prepared them for the heart of the danger, a path that relied on inspiration from afar rather than their own strength within the darkness of the dungeon.

----

## First Strike

The air in the makeshift war council room crackled with a tension thicker than the stale ale on the table. Sakura, clad in a surprisingly subdued outfit compared to her usual idol attire, sat across from Shizuka, Hana, and Riko. The whispers Mina had sown had indeed borne fruit – three of the four major guild leaders present eyed Shizuka with a mix of apprehension and suspicion.

The meeting, so far, had been a tedious affair. Guild politics seemed to take precedence over actual raid strategy. Sakura, tapping her foot impatiently, decided it was time to seize control of the narrative.

"Excuse me," she interjected, her voice surprisingly steady despite the pounding in her chest. "While I appreciate the... enthusiasm, shouldn't we be focusing on the actual raid? Perhaps... a first strike?"

The room fell silent. The guild leaders exchanged surprised glances. Shizuka, however, leaned back in her chair, a steely glint in her eyes.

"A first strike, you say? Interesting."

Sakura forced a smile. "Indeed. A small, elite team could penetrate the outer defenses, clear the first boss, and gather valuable intel on the rest of the dungeon."

The guild leader of the Sun Kings, a burly warrior with a scarred face, stroked his beard thoughtfully. "Intriguing. And who would lead such a team?"

All eyes fell on Shizuka. Sakura's heart hammered against her ribs. This was it.

"Assuming we agree to this first strike," Shizuka said, her voice devoid of emotion, "leading it would fall to the most experienced amongst us."

A murmur of assent rippled through the room. Sakura inwardly cheered. Shizuka leading a potentially suicidal first strike? An excellent turn of events.

"Perhaps Sunshine Prism could join this first strike team," posited the guild leader of Midnight Order, a wiry mage with nervously twitching fingers. "Their buffs could be invaluable."

Sakura's smile faltered. She hadn't anticipated this wrinkle. Having Sunshine Prism in the dungeon, even on a limited first strike, went against her plan.

"That won't be necessary," Shizuka countered, her gaze sharp. "Hana and Riko will provide ample support. They know my fighting style well."

Relief washed over Sakura despite the frustration of seeing Hana and Riko dragged into this. At least it wouldn't be her.

The negotiations continued, the details of the first strike being hammered out. Sakura sat back, a silent observer, her initial satisfaction turning into a knot of unease. Removing Shizuka from the equation was only part of the plan. The Celestial Temple itself remained, a labyrinthine death trap waiting to claim them all. But for now, she had achieved her immediate goal. Shizuka, the thorn in her side, would be leading a high-risk mission. And while a part of Sakura admired Shizuka's bravery, another part, the more ambitious part, couldn't help but hope that the rumors, the suspicions, would prove true. Because if Shizuka fell, the path to glory, the path to becoming the true hero of Melody Haven, would be wide open.

----

The flickering candlelight cast long, dancing shadows on the worn map spread out on the table. Hana scrutinized the parchment, tracing the path towards the Celestial Temple's first boss with a sharpened finger.

"First strike, huh?" she muttered, her voice laced with suspicion.

Shizuka, sharpening her katana with practiced ease, glanced up briefly. "Sakura's political maneuvering seems to be paying off."

Hana scoffed. "Doesn't that just figure? We have her confession letter, a literal admission of guilt, and it means nothing because of her... idol popularity?"

Riko sighed. "Exposing her letter wouldn't stop this raid, Hana. The damage is done. A first strike is happening regardless."

Shizuka's voice held a note of resignation. "We either play along for now, or we're ostracized from the planning entirely."

Hana slammed her fist on the table, scattering the nearby dice. "This whole thing is ridiculous! They're sending an inexperienced team into a suicide mission!"

Shizuka rose from her chair, her movements swift and decisive. "We'll be that team, Hana. And we'll survive. Unlike a bunch of J-pop idols with delusions of grandeur."

Hana bit her lip, frustration warring with a flicker of admiration for Shizuka's unwavering resolve. "But what about the letter? Don't we owe it to the others to expose her true colors?"

Shizuka stopped at the doorway, her back to Hana. "Right now, the focus needs to be on the raid. Exposing Sakura publicly at this stage wouldn't achieve anything. We prioritize survival, then deal with her treachery."

A heavy silence descended upon the room. Riko reached out, placing a comforting hand on Hana's shoulder. "Shizuka's right, Hana. We can't win a battle if we're fighting on two fronts. We play their game for now, then expose the truth when the time is right."

----

The Celestial Temple loomed before them, an ethereal structure seemingly woven from starlight. Its otherworldly beauty held a chilling allure, like stepping inside a celestial observatory carved from pure dreams. The air shimmered with an otherworldly hum, sending a tremor through Hana as she adjusted the strap of her violin case.

Forty adventurers, a motley crew of fighters and spellcasters, stood at the base of the temple entrance. This was their response to the call for a "first strike" – a paltry number considering the scale of the threat. Rumors, "suddenly" resurfacing in the market square, had painted Shizuka as a greedy mercenary in her past, a woman who hoarded six katanas for some nefarious purpose. The whispers had done their damage.

Shizuka scanned the nervous faces, her expression unreadable. A sigh escaped her lips, a sound that spoke volumes of the frustration she couldn't voice. Despite the odds, they were the only team willing to take on this first strike: level-capped raiders primarily from the 'mercenary' Steel Viper guild (a reputation earned through their collective interest in 'just raiding' which marked them as 'outsiders' compared to the other three raid guilds), with a handful from the other three who were willing to get in on the action. Hana and Riko stood beside her, their elite skeleton army crackling with dark magic – a testament to their relentless training.

Hana fidgeted with the bow of her violin, her unease palpable. "Are you sure about this, Shizuka? A first strike with such a small force..."

Riko cut her off. "Hana, stop thinking of it as a 'suicide mission.' That kind of negativity can be a self-fulfilling prophecy."

Shizuka gave Riko a curt nod. "Riko's right. We prepared for this. We have each other, and we have our skeletons." Her gaze swept over the bony warriors, each one an extension of their combined power.

Taking a deep breath, Shizuka unsheathed her Moonlight Herald katana. Its silvery light, infused with moonlight magic, shimmered against the backdrop of the Celestial Temple. "Alright, everyone. This is a recon mission. We clear the first boss, gather intel, and get out. Stay sharp, stay disciplined, and most importantly, stay alive."

Her voice echoed through the clearing, a beacon of resolve amidst the uncertainty. The adventurers, despite their anxieties, couldn't help but be drawn to her unwavering confidence. Here, in the face of an unknown enemy, was a leader they could trust.

Stepping forward, Shizuka cast a glance at Hana and Riko. "Ready?"

Hana lifted her chin, a glint of determination in her eyes. "Always."

Riko cracked her knuckles, a mischievous grin playing on her lips. "Let's rock this dungeon!"

Shizuka raised her katana. The ethereal gateway of the Celestial Temple shimmered, beckoning them within. Leading the skeleton army at the forefront, Shizuka, Hana, and Riko plunged into the unknown.

----

The Celestial Temple hummed with an otherworldly energy as the ragged group of adventurers finally reached the first boss chamber. A gaping hole in the ceiling revealed a breathtaking vista of swirling nebulae and distant stars – an arena seemingly carved from open space itself.

Shizuka, ever cautious, held up a hand, halting the raid. A faint chill emanated from the chamber, prickling at the back of her neck. Her gaze scanned the holographic map displayed on her gauntlet. A crimson symbol pulsed ominously beside the chamber designation – an Escape Suppression field. Once activated, this meant one thing: kill or be killed. No escape.

A murmur of unease rippled through the adventurers. They had signed up for a recon mission, not a death sentence. Shizuka's lips pursed into a grim line. "We need to turn back," she declared, her voice leaving no room for argument. "This wasn't part of the plan. We regroup, organize a stronger force, and come back prepared."

A burly adventurer, his face hidden beneath a dented helm, shoved Shizuka forward into the open space arena. The audacity of the action stunned the room into silence. Before Hana could react, Riko grabbed her arm, her grip surprisingly strong.

"No, Hana!" Riko hissed. "It's a trap!"

From within the chamber, Shizuka's voice rang out, laced with steel. "Stay back! The boss is activating!"

Hana whirled on the burly adventurer, rage contorting her features. "What did you do? Why did you push her?"

The man shrugged, a callous gleam in his eyes. "Good money," he grunted. "Interested parties wanted to make sure the 'greedy katana hoarder' didn't leave the temple alive. This seemed like the safest option for everyone else."

Shizuka's voice echoed from the chamber, a chilling realization dawning in her eyes. "Sakura..."

She didn't need to finish the sentence. Hana understood. This was all part of Sakura's plan – to eliminate Shizuka as a threat, a political rival, all while maintaining her clean idol image.

Shizuka, seemingly accepting her fate, sank to the ground with a quiet dignity. "Don't come in," she warned, her voice calm and clear. "This wasn't your fight. Go back, warn the others."

Tears streamed down Hana's face. "No, Shizuka! Don't give up!"

A mechanical whirring filled the chamber, growing louder by the second. It was a sound that promised pain, destruction, and an inevitable demise. It was the telltale signal of the boss activating, giving at most two minutes before the encounter started.

Shizuka met Hana's tear-filled gaze, a hint of sadness flickering in her eyes. "It's too dangerous, Hana. And... it's better this way," she said softly. "You and Riko... you can live. Your friendship with Sakura... maybe it will mend. Maybe everyone will be happy. Happier without me around to screw everything up."

Hana choked back a sob. "Don't talk like that! We'll get you out of there!"

Shizuka shook her head, a faint smile gracing her lips. "Stop crying again, Hana. I want my death to be a little dignified."

Tears streamed down Hana's face, blurring the swirling vortex beyond. "Shizuka!" she screamed, her voice echoing in the cavernous chamber, "We're sisters! We promised to live!"

An unsettling silence hung in the air. The raid party, a motley crew moments ago, stood frozen, their faces etched with a mixture of fear and newfound respect. Riko broke the silence, her voice uncharacteristically thick with emotion.

"Hana's right," she said, stepping forward, "but... I'm not good at the touchy-feely stuff." She paused, clenching her fist. "Shizuka, you're a pain in the butt most of the time, but..." Her voice cracked slightly. "We love you. And we're not leaving you here alone."

Hana's tear-filled gaze met Riko's. A silent understanding passed between them, a bond forged in shared experiences and battle cries. In a gesture of quiet solidarity, they reached out and clasped hands, their grip firm and unwavering.

Without another word, Hana and Riko stepped through the portal. The world warped around them, the open-air arena materializing before their eyes. Shizuka, who had been preparing for a lonely battle, looked up in disbelief.

"Hana? Riko? What are you doing here?"

Hana, wiping away the last vestiges of tears, met Shizuka's gaze with a steely resolve. "We decided we don't want to live in a world without you, Shizuka."

Riko turned to the remaining adventurers, her voice ringing with authority. "This arena triggers an Escape Suppression field. Warn everyone else not to enter! It's a one-way trip!"

But the adventurers remained rooted to the spot. They had witnessed the sacrifice Shizuka was willing to make, and a flicker of shame had ignited within them. One by one, heads began to nod. One by one, the raiders that made up the first strike team entered the arena. Even the burly traitor hung his head in defeated silence stepped inside, perhaps not wanting to be the last one or labeled a coward.

"Fools," growled Shizuka, rising to her feet, her voice heavy with despair. "All of you. This wasn't your fight."

Then, with a sigh that seemed to shake the very foundations of the arena, she unsheathed a familiar blade. Not Windblade, not River Edge, but Peacemaker – the legendary katana, a symbol of Melody Haven's unwavering spirit and unity.

Suddenly, a colossal roar shattered the tense silence. A magnificent creature materialized in the center of the chamber – a constellation dragon, its form shimmering with celestial energy. Its wings, formed from swirling nebulae, spread wide, blotting out the starry expanse above.

"Draco the Gatekeeper," Shizuka muttered, her voice betraying a hint of awe despite the bleak situation. "A fitting guardian."

Hana and Riko stood shoulder to shoulder with Shizuka, their weapons drawn.

The raiders knew the intent behind the Escape Suppression field: any boss who had such a thing in their chamber was meant to be fought as-is, immediately, and without complication. No such boss with that field possessed mechanical complexity as it was all telegraphed, and, more importantly, their attacks were all avoidable. However, 'avoidable' did not mean the attacks were not lethal - in fact, frequently they were. Among the raiding community it was considered a 'stupid check', but in the face of the Celestial Temple as the pinnacle of raid dungeons it was not safe to assume anything.

Draco the Gatekeeper roared, its celestial form shaking the very structure of the arena. The adventurers, initially hesitant, found their courage rekindled by the sight of Shizuka, Hana, and Riko standing firm. With renewed determination, they charged, a motley crew united against a celestial monstrosity.

Immediately Shizuka identified several points of interest that lit up in the arena: sections of the floors and walls were glowing with a dangerous intensity, probably meant to be traps. More than likely, they were floor traps meant to herd raiders into certain positions, ones likely to the advantage of Draco.

Shizuka, channeling an unsettling calmness, barked orders. "Skeletons! Fulfill the designated offerings!" Her elite warriors, imbued with her own tactical brilliance, understood instantly. With a chilling chorus of bone on metal, several skeletons lunged towards designated points in the arena, their bodies disintegrating as they activated hidden mechanisms.

Hana and Riko, a whirlwind of activity, manipulated their own skeleton armies while simultaneously weaving magic through music. Hana's violin sang a song of resilience, strengthening both the adventurers' attacks and the skeletons' defenses. Riko, her voice powerful and clear, belted out a ballad of agility, granting them all the speed needed to dodge Draco's devastating energy blasts.

Shizuka, wielding Peacemaker, had entered a trance-like state. Every movement was measured, every attack precise. She danced a deadly ballet around Draco, leaving behind a trail of celestial sparks with each strike of her storied blade. Her movements were so swift, so lethal, that whispers of the "Asura" – the legendary demon of war – began to circulate amongst the adventurers.

In the heat of battle, the burly traitor, caught off guard by Draco's tail sweep, found himself hurtling towards a lethal energy core. A horrifying scream died in his throat as Shizuka, with a blur of motion, sacrificed several more of her elite skeletons, creating a makeshift shield that absorbed the brunt of the blow.

The traitor, bruised and shaken, stared up at Shizuka in disbelief. "Why... why'd you do that?"

Shizuka, her eyes cold but focused, extended a hand. "We will talk later. Now, get back in the fight."

The traitor, humbled by Shizuka's unexpected act of mercy, nodded wordlessly and rejoined the fray. He knew, with absolute certainty, that he wouldn't be leaving this arena unless Shizuka allowed it.

The battle raged on, a desperate symphony of clashing steel, bone, and celestial energy. Hana, her normally vibrant music tinged with a desperate edge, kept everyone's spirits high. Riko, her voice hoarse, continued to sing, her words weaving a tapestry of unwavering courage. And Shizuka, a whirlwind of steel and legend, became the conductor of this chaotic symphony, her every move guiding the flow of the battle.

Finally, with a deafening roar, Draco the Gatekeeper faltered. A critical core, exposed by Shizuka's relentless assault, glowed ominously. Hana, in a burst of inspiration, unleashed a final, powerful melody that channeled all their remaining energy. Riko, sensing the opportunity, bellowed a final verse, her voice cracking with exertion but filled with unwavering resolve.

With a synchronized attack, Shizuka, Hana, and Riko along with the remaining adventurers, unleashed a devastating barrage. The core overloaded, showering the arena with celestial sparks. Draco the Gatekeeper shuddered, its celestial form dissolving into a swirling vortex of energy before vanishing entirely.

The aftermath of the battle settled upon the arena like a heavy blanket of silence. The adventurers, battered and bruised, stared at Shizuka with a mixture of awe and newfound respect. Whispers danced in the air, murmurs of "The Asura" and tales of her legendary skill echoing amongst the group.

Hana, slumped against a nearby pillar, surveyed the carnage with a sigh. Beside her, Riko meticulously counted the remaining skeletal warriors. "Ugh, we're definitely down to the bare bones, literally," Riko muttered. "Looks like another graveyard visit is on the agenda."

Hana grimaced. Replenishing their elite skeleton army was a time-consuming and tedious task. She glanced at the adventurers, a flicker of sadness crossing her features. Three of them lay still, forever claiming a cold corner of the Celestial Temple. It could have been worse, much worse, if Shizuka hadn't acted with such decisive selflessness.

Just then, Shizuka, her face etched with exhaustion, approached the traitor who had shoved her into the arena. He cowered slightly, awaiting his punishment.

"Speak," Shizuka commanded, her voice devoid of emotion.

The man stammered, "I... I was paid to do it. But that wasn't the whole story."

Shizuka raised an eyebrow, a silent invitation for him to continue.

"It was about unity, or the lack thereof," he blurted out. "My leader, he... he was worried. Melody Haven was splitting apart, half following Sunshine Prism, half following you. He thought... he thought this would force everyone together."

Shizuka remained silent, letting his words sink in. She couldn't deny the truth in his statement. The city was indeed fractured, loyalty split between them and the idols. She noted that the traitor was a member of the Sun Kings guild and filed away a mental note not to trust their guild leader in the future.

"I didn't care who won," the man continued, his voice gaining a hint of defiance. "But after what you just did... after saving my life..." He fell to his knees, his head bowed. "I swear fealty to you, Shizuka."

Shizuka's lips pressed into a thin line. "Fealty isn't what I need. We need cooperation, trust, and understanding."

The other adventurers, emboldened by the traitor's confession, began to inch closer. A burly woman stepped forward, her voice filled with sincerity. "You saved our lives, Shizuka. You're our leader, whether you like it or not."

A chorus of murmurs of agreement rippled through the group.

Shizuka sighed, her hand instinctively going to Peacemaker's hilt. "Leading isn't what I desire. We have guilds for that. When we return... make sure everyone knows what truly transpired on this 'first strike.'"

----

The air in Melody Haven hung heavy with a tension thicker than the stale tavern ale. Word of the "first strike" had spread like wildfire, whispered tales of Shizuka's heroism and the near-tragic betrayal. But the city remained divided. Three of the four major raiding guilds, still firmly under Sakura's saccharine spell, remained silent on the matter.

However, in the guild hall of the Steel Vipers, where most of the first strike survivors belonged, a different atmosphere prevailed. An almost rebellious fire had ignited. The near-death experience had forged an unlikely camaraderie, a shared respect for Shizuka's leadership and the brutal effectiveness of her skeletal army. The few raid participants who were not part of the Steel Vipers were allowed to join the festivities, their bond forged on the battlefield overriding guild loyalty for the time being.

"Did you hear?" an Archmage blurted out, his voice buzzing with nervous excitement. "The leader just announced that Necromancy is now mandatory for all future raids!"

Hana, wiping the sweat from her brow after a training session with her violin, glanced at Riko. "Mandatory Necromancy? That's..."

"Unprecedented," Riko finished, a wry smile playing on her lips. "But surprisingly popular. Seems everyone saw the value of skeletal companions after that little escapade in the Celestial Temple."

Hana snorted. "Little escapade? More like a near-suicide mission thanks to a certain idol group."

Shizuka, sharpening her blades with practiced ease, sent them both a withering look. "Focus, you two. Replacing the skeletons we lost will take time, and trust me, we'll need even more for the next encounter."

Her words cast a shadow over the newfound enthusiasm. The first strike had been a victory, but a costly one. Replacing their elite skeletons wouldn't be easy, and there was no guarantee they'd be as strong next time.

"So, what now?" Riko asked, voicing the question on everyone's mind. "Those Sakura-aligned guilds... they won't just sit on their laurels, will they?"

Shizuka slammed her katana down on the table, her eyes flashing with anger. "No, they won't. While we recover, one or more of them will likely attempt the second boss. They're desperate for a win, for control of the narrative."

A wave of frustration rippled through the room. All their efforts, their sacrifice, could be overshadowed by a reckless attempt by a guild hungry for glory.

"And there's nothing we can do about it," Hana muttered, her voice heavy with despair.

Shizuka met her gaze, a steely glint in her eyes. "No, there isn't. But one thing is certain. Any deaths from this point on will be on Sakura's conscience, not ours."

----

## Unpacking Feelings

The shared silence in their Melody Haven home felt heavy, punctuated only by the rhythmic tick of the grandfather clock in the corner. Riko, sensing their need for space, had made an excuse to go to the market, leaving Hana and Shizuka alone. Hana shifted uncomfortably, fiddling with the straps of her violin case.

"Shizuka, can we talk?" she blurted out, finally breaking the quiet.

Shizuka, sharpening Peacemaker with practiced ease, looked up, her expression unreadable. "About?"

"About the Celestial Temple," Hana began, her voice tight. "About you almost... you know..."

The words stuck in her throat. Saying it out loud made the memory of Shizuka being pushed into the arena all the more horrifying.

Shizuka set down her katana, her gaze softening slightly. "Hana," she said gently, "you don't have to sugarcoat it. You said it yourself back then – you don't want to live in a world without me."

Hana's cheeks flushed crimson. "That... well, that wasn't exactly... " she stammered, flustered.

Shizuka's lips curved into a faint smile. "It sounded suspiciously like an anguished declaration of love, wouldn't you say?"

Hana groaned, burying her face in her hands. "Shizuka! I'm serious! It's just... after everything that happened... I realized how much you mean to me."

Shizuka remained silent, her gaze unwavering. 

Hana took a deep breath and continued, her voice firm. "Look, I know I'm straight, and I know you're probably aromantic, but I can't help the way I feel. You're my best friend, my sister, and... well..."

Without finishing her sentence, Hana impulsively leaned forward, closing the distance between them. She planted a soft, tender kiss on Shizuka's lips. Her heart hammered in her chest, a mix of fear and hope.

Shizuka didn't pull away, but she didn't respond either. After a beat, she finally drew back, a hint of amusement in her eyes. "Well, Hana," she said dryly, "I'm glad we're not having 'glad to be alive sex' right now."

Hana's jaw dropped, then a burst of laughter escaped her lips. The tension in the room dissipated, replaced by a sense of awkward relief. "Seriously, Shizuka?"

Shizuka chuckled softly. "Seriously. But listen, Hana," her voice turned serious again, "your feelings... they don't bother me. We have a lot going on right now, with the Celestial Temple and the city divided. But..." she trailed off, her gaze distant.

"But?" Hana prompted, a flicker of hope igniting in her chest.

Shizuka met her gaze, a hint of vulnerability softening her usually stoic features. "But... I appreciate you being brave enough to share your feelings."

Hana's heart swelled. It wasn't love reciprocated, but it was a step forward, a crack in the walls Shizuka had built around herself. Perhaps there was room for something more complex, something beautiful, to grow between them in the melody of their friendship.

With a renewed sense of understanding, Hana reached out and squeezed Shizuka's hand. "Thank you, Shizuka. For everything."

Shizuka squeezed back, a flicker of warmth in her eyes. "Let's just focus on getting through this mess, Hana. Then, maybe... we can figure things out."

----

Hana lay curled up in the shared bed, staring at the flickering candlelight on the ceiling. Riko, usually a restless sleeper, lay uncharacteristically still beside her, her breathing soft and even. Finally, unable to hold it in any longer, Hana blurted out, "Riko, I need to talk to you."

Riko's eyes snapped open, a flicker of concern crossing her face. "What's wrong, Hana? Did you have another nightmare about the skeletons?"

Hana shook her head, a blush creeping up her cheeks. "No, it's... it's about Shizuka."

Riko's brow furrowed slightly. "Shizuka? What about her?"

"I... I told her," Hana confessed, her voice barely a whisper. "I told her how I felt."

Riko's expression softened. "Hana," she began gently, "I know."

Hana's head shot up, confusion clouding her features. "You know? How? Did Shizuka tell you?"

Riko chuckled softly. "Not exactly. You were pretty transparent, Hana. Especially after that near-death experience in the Celestial Temple. We all were."

Hana's cheeks burned even hotter. All this time, she'd thought her feelings were a secret, a tangled mess within her own heart. "So... does that mean... I'm...?"

Riko reached over and squeezed Hana's hand. "Hana, labels don't matter right now. You put your feelings out there, and Shizuka knows. That's the important part, don't you think?"

A wave of relief washed over Hana. At least the uncertainty of Shizuka not knowing was gone. But a new worry took its place. "What if... what if I made a mistake?" she whispered, her voice trembling slightly. "What if I don't actually feel this way in a few weeks? What if it was just the adrenaline from the fight?"

Riko wrapped a comforting arm around Hana. "Hey, it's okay to explore your feelings, even if they change later. It doesn't diminish what you're experiencing right now. And who knows, maybe they won't change. Maybe Shizuka feels the same way."

A flicker of hope ignited in Hana's chest, then sputtered out just as quickly. "But Riko, everyone knows she's aromantic! Besides, even if she did..." Hana trailed off, unable to finish the sentence. The image of Shizuka pushed into the arena, the fear etched on her face, flashed in her mind.

"Maybe Shizuka just needed some time," Riko offered. "She's been through a lot lately."

Hana nodded slowly. Maybe Riko was right. Maybe Shizuka had put her feelings on hold, the chaotic aftermath of the raid clouding everything else.

"Still," Hana mumbled, a hint of frustration in her voice, "I wish I knew for sure how I feel."

Riko squeezed her hand again. "Give yourself time, Hana. And no matter what happens, you know I'll be here for you. Always."

Hana leaned into Riko's embrace, a wave of gratitude washing over her. Despite the uncertainty surrounding her feelings for Shizuka, one thing remained constant – the unwavering support of her best friend.

"Thanks, Riko," Hana whispered. "I don't know what I'd do without you."

Riko chuckled. "Just one thing, though," she said, her voice teasing. "If Shizuka ever says yes, our bed probably isn't big enough for three."

Hana swatted at Riko's arm with a playful groan. "Riko!"

Their laughter mingled in the quiet darkness, a comforting melody amidst the complexities of their lives.

----

Riko tiptoed through the dimly lit hallway, her bare feet silent against the cold floor. She stopped outside Shizuka's room, the rhythmic scrape of a sharpening blade drifting out from beneath the door. With a silent sigh, she pushed it open a crack.

Inside, Shizuka sat bathed in the cool glow of a single candle, her brow furrowed in concentration as she honed the edge of her katana. She glanced up at the sound of the creaking door, a hint of amusement flickering in her eyes.

"Sneaking in, Riko? Is it your turn for a heart-to-heart?"

Riko winced. "Ugh, don't even joke about that. Hana's confession was brave enough for both of us. Besides," she flopped down on a spare chair with a dramatic sigh, "I'm no good at all with that touchy-feely stuff."

Shizuka chuckled, setting down her katana. "So, what brings you here then, if not love confessions?"

"Hana," Riko admitted. "I'm worried about her. She's all confused about... well, you know..."

"Her feelings?" Shizuka finished, her voice gentle.

Riko nodded. "It's like she's constantly second-guessing everything. Adrenaline, emotions, labels... it's a mess."

Shizuka leaned back in her chair, her gaze fixed on the flickering candle flame. "She's allowed to be confused, Riko. These things aren't always black and white."

The silence stretched for a moment, then Shizuka surprised Riko by turning the question back on her. "How do you feel about it, Riko?"

Riko's cheeks flushed a rosy pink. "Me? What do you mean 'it'?" she stammered, trying to buy some time.

"You know exactly what I mean. Surprise me."

Riko fiddled with the hem of her sleepwear.  "Alright, alright," she mumbled. "The whole situation is... complicated. When I thought you were going to die in the arena... well, let's just say it didn't help with all the... stuff Hana was saying."

She took a deep breath. "The truth is, Shizuka, I don't know how I feel deep down. There was a lot of fear, a lot of relief... maybe some protectiveness too. But then when Hana confessed... it just felt right, you know? Like... like I loved you too."

Shizuka's expression softened, a faint smile playing on her lips. "Loved me too? But not... in that way?"

Riko's blush deepened. "Not... not like that! I mean, you're my sister! But... Hana has first dibs, you know? She confessed first."

Shizuka's lips curved into a small smile. "First dibs? Riko, this isn't some competition."

"Well, it kind of feels like it," Riko mumbled, looking away. "It's not like we can share you."

Shizuka reached out and gently placed a hand on Riko's shoulder. "Listen," she said, her voice soft. "You and Hana... you're both incredibly important to me. But..." she hesitated, a thoughtful frown creasing her brow. "I can't help but wonder if this... this feeling I have for both of you... is what they call 'true love' in those silly romance novels."

Riko snorted. "Don't listen to those overdramatic things, Shizuka. This is real life, not some fairy tale. And this... this love we have, it's good enough, isn't it?"

Shizuka looked at Riko, a flicker of something warm and unguarded in her eyes. "Good enough?" she repeated.

Riko squeezed Shizuka's hand. "Yeah. We don't need fancy labels or some grand definition of love. We have each other, and that's all that matters."

----

## Enough is Enough

The news echoed through the bustling marketplace like a discordant note in a cheery melody. Shizuka and her team had returned from the Celestial Temple's first strike, battered but victorious. Draco the Gatekeeper, a celestial dragon woven from constellations, lay slain. Relief washed over Melody Haven, tinged with the sorrow of three fallen adventurers.

Sunshine Prism, huddled in their practice room, grappled with the news. Sakura, a forced smile plastered on her face, scanned the report Mina had procured. Disappointment gnawed at her – Shizuka was alive. Yet, a sliver of satisfaction flickered at the edges. Hana and Riko were unharmed.

Aoi, however, picked up on a different detail. "Wait, the report mentions an... assassination attempt on Shizuka?"

Sakura choked on her fabricated grief. "Assassination attempt? No, I haven't heard anything about that. Must be some internal guild squabble they're not sharing with us."

Hikari stroked Fluffy thoughtfully. The usually fluffy critter mirrored her suspicion with a low hiss.

"Internal squabble, huh?" Hikari said, her voice flat. "Sounds convenient."

The air crackled with unspoken tension. Hikari, unable to bear the weight of Sakura's ambition any longer, announced, "I need some air." With a pointed look at Aoi, she exited the room, Fluffy perched protectively on her shoulder.

Aoi's gaze narrowed at Sakura. "You don't sound so broken up about the assassination attempt, are you?"

Sakura feigned innocence. "Aoi, raids are dangerous. Casualties, even assassination attempts, are par for the course in cutthroat places like the Celestial Temple."

But Aoi wasn't buying it. "And here you were, pushing for this whole first strike thing. What if something happened to Hana or Riko? Was that part of the plan, too?"

Sakura flinched, a flicker of something akin to fear crossing her features. "No, of course not! Don't be ridiculous."

Aoi shook her head, the melody of their dreams turning sour. "You keep pushing yourself into this raid thing, Sakura. Sooner or later, you're going to find out just how dangerous it really is. First-hand."

Sakura blanched. "What do you mean?"

Aoi's voice hardened. "I mean, I don't want to go into that temple, Sakura. Not because I'm a coward, or a chicken. But because we aren't cut out for it. We're idols, not heroes."

To her surprise, Sakura didn't argue. Instead, a strange vulnerability flickered in her eyes. "Maybe... maybe you're right," she mumbled. "Maybe the Celestial Temple isn't... for us."

Aoi, confused by Sakura's sudden change of heart, watched as she sank into a chair, a defeated slump to her shoulders. The gears in Aoi's mind whirred. What was Sakura's real game? A plan B, perhaps?

Deciding to follow Hikari's lead, Aoi grabbed her bag. "I'm going to catch up with Hikari."

Sakura didn't try to stop her. As Aoi left the room, she couldn't shake the feeling that Sakura had just played them all, and the Celestial Temple held a secret far more sinister than any dragon.

----

The crisp night air swirled around the hidden grove, a stark contrast to the stifling tension within Sunshine Prism. Aoi and Hikari, accompanied by a watchful Fluffy, huddled with Hana and Riko under the cloak of darkness.

"You have no idea how good it is to talk to people who actually remember what normal is," Aoi sighed, her voice laced with relief.

Hikari, her brow furrowed, glanced at the empty space where Sakura usually sat. "There's no point giving her more chances. We've bent over backwards, hoping she'd see reason. But..." she trailed off, a mix of anger and sadness flickering across her face.

Riko, her usually warm smile replaced by a grim expression, reached out and squeezed Hikari's hand. "Sakura's gone, Hikari. Whatever happened when we entered Atheria, it twisted her. The girl you knew... she's lost."

Aoi's memory flickered back to their arrival in Atheria. They had emerged, bright-eyed and hopeful, into a world filled with magic and mythical creatures. But the harsh reality quickly set in. They were sold into indentured servitude, their dreams of adventure crushed under the weight of manual labor.

"It was hard for Sakura alright," Aoi admitted, "but we all got through it together. We worked hard, earned our freedom, and became adventurers like Sakura wanted."

"When we should have just stuck to entertainment classes like the Adventurer's Guild suggested," Hikari said glumly.

"Riko and I faced hardships too," Hana added, "but nothing that fundamentally changed who we are. I mean, the worst thing that happened to us was falling face-first into a mud hole."

The corner of Riko's lip twitched, a hint of a smile breaking through the seriousness. Aoi, however, couldn't help but focus on the stark difference between their experiences and Sakura's descent into ambition.

"So what do we do?" Hikari asked, her voice heavy with resignation. "We can't keep pretending to be on board with her plans, but confronting her..."

The silence that followed was thick with worry. Fluffy, sensing the tension, let out a low growl and nudged Hikari's hand with her head. Aoi stroked her fur, finding a sliver of comfort in the familiar.

"Maybe," Riko said slowly, her voice barely a whisper, "we need to find a way to remind Sakura who she really is. Who we all are."

Aoi raised an eyebrow. "How do you propose we do that? Sing her a song? The girl's gone off the deep end, chasing power and glory."

Hana shook her head. "It won't be easy, but Sakura isn't beyond redemption. Not yet. We just need to find the right key to unlock the real her again."

----

The air in the practice room crackled with a tension thicker than the layers of Hikari's stage makeup. A weekend concert loomed, and despite the discord within Sunshine Prism, the show had to go on. Aoi, her smile strained, attempted a warm-up run, her voice lacking its usual sparkle. Hikari, mirroring Aoi's discomfort, fiddled with her guitar, her mind a million miles away.

The practice room door creaked open, and Sakura swept in. "Alright, ladies! Let's make this concert one for the history books!"

Aoi and Hikari exchanged a wary glance. Forced smiles were plastered on their faces as they launched into their first song. The music felt hollow, a mere echo of their former joy. As the final notes faded, a figure materialized by the doorway, the flickering lamplight catching the glint of bells on a jester's hat.

"Well, well," purred a voice that was both familiar and strangely distorted. "Quite the... performance, ladies."

Mina, clad in a flamboyant jester's outfit, sauntered towards Hikari, her eyes gleaming with amusement.

"Enjoying the double life, Hikari?" she purred, her voice laced with a hint of mockery. "Secret meetings with Moonlight Prism in the dead of night? Sounds thrilling."

Hikari's heart hammered against her ribs. "What are you talking about, Mina? We haven't been anywhere."

Mina threw her head back and laughed, a jarring sound in the tense silence. "Don't play dumb with me, sweetheart. I play a jester, not an idiot. So, spill it. What's your plan? Or is there even one?"

Hikari hesitated, her gaze flickering to Aoi, who was discreetly watching their exchange. "There's... no plan," Hikari mumbled.

Mina raised an eyebrow. "No plan? You better hope tonight's concert is the performance of your life then."

Hikari frowned. "What do you mean? Whose side are you on?"

Mina's smile turned cold. "My side, sweetheart. Always my side."

With that cryptic statement, Mina sashayed out of the room, leaving Hikari reeling. Aoi approached, concern etched on her face.

"What was that about?" she whispered.

Hikari shook her head, a sliver of hope blossoming in her chest. Mina's words, though cryptic, held a hidden message. Mina wasn't blindly loyal to Sakura. Perhaps, Hikari thought, there was a chance to turn the tide, a way to play their own game within the game Sakura had orchestrated.

"I don't know," Hikari said, a determined glint in her eyes. "But maybe that's a good thing."

Aoi's lips curved into a hesitant smile. "Maybe it is."

They rejoined Sakura, the discordant melody of their situation still playing. But now, a new note, a faint undercurrent of defiance, had been added to the mix.

----

The stage lights bathed Aoi and Hikari in a harsh glare as the cheers of the crowd washed over them. Their smiles felt painted on, porcelain masks concealing the turmoil within. Every note they sang, every dazzling dance move felt hollow, a performance fueled by a desperate hope that their charade wouldn't crumble before the curtain fell.

Mina's cryptic message echoed in their minds. "The performance of your life." It wasn't just about the crowd. It was about Sakura. Maintaining the illusion that everything was normal, that they were still blindly devoted to her twisted dream.

Throughout the performance, Aoi couldn't shake the image of Hana and Riko, their expressions etched with worry during their clandestine meeting. They knew. They knew about Sakura's ambition, about the dangerous path she was dragging them all down.

The final song ended with a flourish, and the applause seemed deafening. As Sakura joined them on stage, a wolfish grin splitting her face, Aoi felt a pang of disgust.

Sakura, basking in the adulation, raised her hand for silence. "Citizens of Melody Haven! Valorous adventurers!" Her voice boomed through the arena. "Tonight, we celebrate the power of music, the power of unity! And soon, we will celebrate something even grander!"

A collective gasp rippled through the crowd. Adventurers leaned forward, anticipation glinting in their eyes.

"The raid on the second boss of the Celestial Temple!" Sakura declared, her voice ringing with triumph. "In two weeks, we, alongside the bravest adventurers, will strike again! And mark my words, we will return victorious!"

The crowd erupted in cheers, a wave of excitement crashing through the arena. Aoi felt a cold dread pool in her stomach. Two weeks. That was how long they had.

----

## Too Smart for the Audience

The war council room buzzed with an air of false bravado. Three guild leaders, their faces etched with a mix of bravado and lingering fear, sat around the table along with Sunshine Prism. The fourth guild, the Steel Vipers, aligned with Moonlight Prism, was conspicuously absent. Rumors swirled about restructuring after their near-deaths at the first boss, and a mandatory class mastery in Necromancy – a controversial decision by their leader, to say the least.

Sakura, a predatory glint in her eyes, leaned back in her chair as the guild leaders outlined their strategy for the second boss – a constellation monstrosity in the shape of a bull called Berntagund the Devourer. Their plan, a reckless cocktail of brute force and elemental magic, seemed more like wishful thinking than sound strategy.

"With your buffs, Sunshine Prism," the leader of the Sun Kings, a bearded warrior with a scarred face, boomed, "we'll be invincible! An unstoppable force of melody and might!"

Aoi cut through the bravado. "Hold on. There's only five Level 99 Idols in Atheria, right? And with all due respect, Hana and Riko are not ready for a raid after the last one."

The guild leaders exchanged worried glances. "That's why we need all of you, Sunshine Prism!" another, the leader of the Midnight Order, a wiry mage with a nervous twitch, exclaimed.

Sakura's stomach lurched. No. Absolutely not. This wasn't part of the plan. She hadn't signed up to be monster fodder. Panic clawed at her throat as she stammered out an excuse.

"But... but we're not trained for combat! We're idols, not warriors!"

"Nonsense!" barked the Sun Kings leader. "Your buffs will be crucial! We need all the firepower we can muster. Besides," he added, a sly smile playing on his lips, "your little concert inspired many adventurers to join our cause. They'll fight like lions knowing they have the power of music behind them!"

Aoi and Hikari exchanged a tense glance. They were trapped. Sakura's carefully crafted plan had backfired spectacularly. Now, not only were they stuck playing cheerleader for a reckless raid strategy, but they were expected to be on the frontlines themselves.

----

Sakura slammed the practice room door shut, the force of it rattling the framed photos on the wall. Aoi and Hikari flinched at the sudden display of anger.

"This is ridiculous!" Sakura spat, her voice laced with a barely concealed tremor. "You can't be serious! We can't just waltz into that death trap!"

Aoi raised an eyebrow, her voice laced with a calmness that irritated Sakura even further. "What did you expect, Sakura? You spent weeks telling everyone how you'll lead the Celestial Temple raid to victory."

"But I wasn't supposed to be a part of it!" Sakura exclaimed, her voice rising. "I wanted the raiders, the adventurers, to do it for me! For us! A glorious victory, a testament to the power of music!"

Hikari leaned back in her chair, her gaze sharp. "Except they're not exactly doing it for us, are they, Sakura? They just need our buffs. Your 'glorious victory' is their ticket to fame and fortune."

Aoi's words echoed Hikari's. "It seems like it's a case of mutual use, doesn't it? You use them to get to the Celestial Temple, they use you for a perceived advantage."

Sakura's face drained of color. The truth, laid bare, was a bitter pill to swallow. She hadn't built a loyal following, she'd built a mercenary alliance fueled by self-interest. Panic clawed at her throat. She'd manipulated, lied, and ostracized for this? To be nothing more than a walking buff to a bunch of glory-hungry adventurers?

"So... so what do we do?" Sakura whispered, the fight draining out of her. "We can't back out now, can we? They'll turn on us!"

Aoi and Hikari exchanged a worried glance. The situation was far worse than they anticipated. Sakura's ambition had painted them into a corner, and the consequences could be dire.

"We have options," Hikari said cautiously, "but they're not great ones. We can try to reason with the guild leaders, explain that the raid is too dangerous with our current skillset."

Aoi shook her head. "They won't listen. They're desperate, and our buffs are their only edge they see."

Sakura sank into a chair, the weight of her own ambition pressing down on her. Trapped. Used. Powerless. The once vibrant melody of her dreams had devolved into a discordant symphony of despair.

"There has to be another way," Sakura mumbled, her voice barely a whisper.

Aoi and Hikari stood there, the weight of the situation settling heavily upon them. They had a responsibility, not just to themselves, but to Hana, Riko, and the unsuspecting adventurers Sakura had misled.

----

Sakura paced back and forth in her dressing room, her once enthusiastic hum replaced by a nervous gnawing in her stomach. The reality of the Celestial Temple raid had finally sunk in, and panic clawed at her throat. Being a glorified buff dispenser for a reckless raid party wasn't part of the grand plan. She needed a way out.

Desperate, she remembered her clandestine meeting with Mina. Maybe Mina could help.

With a pounding heart, Sakura found Mina backstage, still clad in her flamboyant jester outfit. Mina raised an eyebrow at Sakura's frantic appearance.

"Well, well, well," Mina drawled, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Look who's decided to grace the jester with an audience. Lost your taste for the spotlight, have we, Sunshine Princess?"

Sakura gritted her teeth. "Mina, cut the act. I need your help."

Mina threw her head back and laughed, a jarring sound that echoed through the empty corridor. "You need my help? The invincible Sakura, who's going to lead us all to victory in the Celestial Temple?"

Sakura's cheeks burned. "That was never the plan..." she mumbled, more to herself than to Mina.

"Oh, spare me the details, sweetheart," Mina cut in, her smile turning icy. "The truth is, you're scared. You want out of this mess you created all by yourself."

Sakura flinched. Mina, for all her teasing and jabs, had a knack for pinpointing the truth. Shame washed over her.

"I... yes. I need a way out. Can you arrange a meeting with Hana and Riko? Maybe..." her voice trailed off. Maybe they'd understand, maybe they could help her weasel out of this.

Mina studied her for a long moment, a flicker of something akin to pity crossing her features. "Fine," she sighed. "I can set up a meeting. But it comes with a condition."

Sakura's eyes lit up with a sliver of hope. "Anything! Whatever you want!"

Mina's smile returned, but this time it was devoid of its usual amusement. "Humility, dear Sakura. Humility. You will wear my outfit to the meeting."

Sakura's jaw dropped. "Wear your... jester outfit? Are you serious?"

"Dead serious," Mina said, her voice firm. "You go to them begging for help, not marching in like the self-proclaimed hero. A little... theatrical humility wouldn't hurt." Then, resuming her usual theatrical flare, she added, "And besides, I think I'd like to try on that fancy idol outfit you're sporting."

Sakura stared at the flamboyant costume, her pride warring with her desperation. The image of herself, the idol, reduced to a jester... it was a bitter pill to swallow.

But then the image of the Celestial Temple, of the monstrous boss waiting within, flashed in her mind. The taste of fear filled her mouth.

"Fine," she grumbled, snatching the jingling jester hat from Mina's outstretched hand. "Just get me out of this raid."

----

## A Belated Meeting

Sakura, a ridiculous sight in oversized jester pants and a hat that threatened to topple over, scurried down the damp steps into the hidden Melody Haven bunker, one of many such underground hovels built in case of emergency. Fear twisted in her stomach, not from the cramped, dimly lit space, but from the unexpected figure waiting for her. Shizuka. Not Hana, not Riko, but the very person Sakura hoped to avoid.

Shizuka, clad in her imposing black and red Asura armor, six katanas strapped menacingly to her back, exuded an aura that silenced the jester bells on Sakura's ridiculous outfit. Sakura's bravado crumbled. The urge to bolt was strong, but under Shizuka's unwavering gaze, she felt like a child caught with their hand in the cookie jar.

"Sit," Shizuka commanded, her voice a frosty whisper that sent a shiver down Sakura's spine. It was the tone reserved for scolding younger siblings, a tone Sakura hadn't heard since childhood. Shamefacedly, Sakura perched on a crate, feeling uncharacteristically small.

"Feels good, doesn't it?" Shizuka began, her voice devoid of emotion. "The tables turned. You wanted a secret meeting, a chance to play the victim, but here you are, facing the real consequences of your actions."

Sakura wanted to retort, to defend herself, but the words wouldn't come. Her carefully crafted facade of heroism felt flimsy at best, downright malicious at worst.

"Where's the grand hero act now, Sakura?" Shizuka continued, her voice sharper. "Didn't you claim you were doing all this for Melody Haven? For the adventurers? Or was it all just a smokescreen to inflate your own ego?"

Sakura opened her mouth to defend herself, but all that came out was a weak, "I..."

Shizuka slammed a crumpled piece of paper on the table. It unfurled to reveal a crudely drawn poster, featuring a caricature of Shizuka, exaggerated features twisted into a villainous grimace. Below it, bold red letters proclaimed an exorbitant bounty.

"Care to explain this, Sakura?" Shizuka's voice was a low growl. "Why did you feel it necessary to paint a target on my back?"

The weight of Shizuka's gaze, the anger simmering beneath the surface, was suffocating. Sakura's carefully constructed world, where she was the hero and Shizuka the villain, started to crumble. She hadn't just gotten in over her head, she'd put Shizuka, the very person trying to protect them all, in mortal danger. Shame, hot and suffocating, washed over her.

"I... I just..." Sakura stammered, tears welling up in her eyes. "I wanted... I wanted everyone to think you were the bad guy."

Shizuka's expression remained unreadable. "And why, Sakura? Why were you so afraid to face the truth? That maybe this whole raid might be a terrible idea, and putting innocent lives at risk wasn't the answer?"

Sakura's tears spilled over, her face crumpling. "I... I don't know," she choked out. "I just wanted... to be the hero."

Shizuka's silence resonated louder than any scream. The jester's costume, a joke in the dim light, felt like a cruel caricature of the hero Sakura had envisioned herself as. The melody of ambition had become a discordant dirge, filled with the notes of regret and fear.

"You want to be a hero, Sakura?" Shizuka finally spoke, her voice softer now, but laced with steel. "Then stop playing dress-up and face the real enemy – the one within yourself."

Silence pressed down on the bunker after Shizuka's words. Sakura, the oversized jester hat drooping over her tear-streaked face, could only stare at the crumpled bounty poster as Shizuka continued, her voice still devoid of emotion.

"Let me tell you about Draco the Gatekeeper," Shizuka said, her words sharp as broken glass. "A serpentine abomination with breath that could melt steel. The boss room was an Escape Suppression Room. Once you stepped in, the door slammed shut, and escape wasn't an option. Only victory or death."

Sakura felt a tremor of fear crawl up her spine. The posters had only highlighted the Celestial Temple's promise of fame and glory, never the terrifying details.

"I knew that I wouldn't walk out of there alive," Shizuka continued. "It was a monstrously unfair fight, even for me. So, I did the only logical thing. I sat down. Waited for the end."

Shizuka's voice held a chilling emptiness. "The most annoying part was Hana. She cried. Sobbed, begging me not to give up. Do you have any idea, Sakura, the last time you saw Hana cry, that quiet violinist with tears streaming down her face?"

Sakura shook her head, the image of Hana's stoic facade shattering in her mind.

"After Hana accepted your apology, we got in a fight," Shizuka said, a flicker of something akin to pain crossing her features. "She cried then, begging me to understand her feelings. That was the first time. I was hoping that would be the last time. But you, Sakura, made her cry the second time."

Shizuka's words struck Sakura like a physical blow. Shame burned even hotter in her chest.

"Then, both Hana and Riko did the stupidest thing anyone could ever do," Shizuka continued, her voice hardening. "They walked in. Said they wouldn't live in a world without me. It was reckless, foolish, everything you wouldn't understand with your self-centered ambitions. But, if they hadn't... well, you wouldn't be sitting here right now, whining about your fake hero complex."

Shizuka stood up, her imposing figure casting a long shadow over Sakura. "It wasn't the fear of death that got to me in that room, Sakura. It was the thought of leaving them behind. I would have died happy if Hana and Riko stayed out of that room. Your friends, the ones you so readily put in danger for your own glory. If you want to be a hero, understand this – a hero fights not for accolades, but for the people they care about, even when it means facing their own fears."

The weight of Shizuka's words pressed down on Sakura, the discordant melody of her ambitions finally drowned out by the sobering notes of responsibility and selflessness. 

The silence in the bunker stretched on, punctuated only by Sakura's choked sobs. Finally, she managed to stammer, "What... what do I do then?"

Shizuka remained impassive. "Go to the Celestial Temple," she said in a voice devoid of emotion, "and meet your maker, if that's what fate has in store for you."

Sakura recoiled as if struck. "No! I can't... I won't die in a place like that! And Aoi, Hikari... they don't deserve that!"

Desperation tinged her voice as she pleaded, "Shizuka, please! You're the Asura, the Protector of Melody Haven! A living legend! Can't you... can't you perform a miracle for us?"

Shizuka slammed her fist onto the table, the sound echoing through the bunker. "Miracle?" she spat, her voice laced with anger. "Have you been paying attention to a single word I said, Sakura? I was about to die in that Escape Suppression Room! I wouldn't be here if..."

A flicker of vulnerability crossed Shizuka's face. "I'm not invincible. I'm not the living legend the stories make me out to be. My 'miracles' are the result of hours of planning, meticulous training, and a whole lot of luck. Things you can't conjure up in two weeks."

Sakura crumpled to the floor, tears flowing freely now. "But... but what else can we do? We can't back out now, they'll turn on us!"

Shizuka studied Sakura for a long moment, a hint of something akin to pity softening her gaze. Then, she spoke, her voice quiet but firm.

"There is a solution, Sakura. A simple one, really. Just... don't go."

Sakura's head shot up, a flicker of hope battling with fear in her eyes. "But... but what about the raid? My image? Everything I've built?"

Shizuka let out a humorless scoff. "Your image? Sakura, you built your entire career on a house of cards. You can choose to keep playing this hero charade, a charade that could get you and your friends killed, or you can choose to live."

The starkness of the choice hung heavy in the air. Sakura, a sobbing mess at Shizuka's feet, could only whimper, "But... but people think I'm... I'm inspiring them with my music."

"Are you?" Shizuka challenged. "Or are you simply living up to an image you created? Which path will you choose, Sakura?"

A long silence followed. The discordant melody of Sakura's ambition had finally been silenced, replaced by the desperate plea for survival.

----

Sakura, a crumpled mess in her oversized jester outfit, stumbled back into her room. Leading the way was Mina, resplendent in Sakura's usual stage attire. Fluffy, startled at the sight of two Sakuras, let out a confused yelp.

Aoi and Hikari exchanged worried glances. "Sakura? What happened?" Aoi asked, her voice laced with concern.

Mina twirled in place, her voice mimicking Sakura's with a touch of exaggeration. "Oh, just a little chat with the mighty Asura! Turns out, our dear leader here had a sudden attack of conscience!"

Sakura, overwhelmed by the day's events, could only sniffle and rub at her tear-streaked face. Mina, seeing the state she was in, sighed and took off the jacket, tossing it onto a nearby chair.

"Alright, Mina," Hikari intervened gently. "Let's give Sakura a moment. We need to hear what happened directly from her."

A tense silence followed, broken only by Sakura's occasional hiccup. Finally, when she seemed somewhat composed, Hikari spoke again, her voice firm. "So, Sakura, what do you want to do?"

Sakura, her voice still shaky, mumbled, "I... I want to apologize to Melody Haven. Publicly. And... and withdraw from the raid."

The air crackled with tension. Aoi, her expression stormy, slapped Sakura across the face. The room fell silent.

"Stop it!" Aoi spat, her voice shaking with barely suppressed fury. "Don't you get it? This isn't about you being some martyr sacrificing yourself for the idol cause! This drama, this public apology... it's just another way for you to control the narrative, to be the princess who has fallen from grace but is oh-so-redeemed by the people's love."

Sakura flinched, tears welling back up in her eyes. Aoi wasn't finished.

"We're not playing your game anymore, Sakura. You built this mess on a foundation of lies, and you expect us to clean it up for you? You want to be the hero, but you're not willing to do the real work. You're not some princess in a tower, and you're not some fallen angel either! You're just a person, Sakura, and this... this is on you!"

Mina, who had remained silent throughout Aoi's outburst, finally spoke. "Aoi's right. This public apology... it might feel good in the moment, but it won't solve the problem. You created this mess, Sakura, and you have to figure out a way to clean it up. And trust me, it won't be pretty."

Sakura stared at the floor, overwhelmed by the weight of Aoi's words. The comfortable world of applause and adoration had crumbled around her, leaving her exposed and vulnerable. The discordant melody of her ambition had finally been drowned out by the harsh notes of reality.

"I... I don't know," Sakura whispered, a flicker of fear in her voice. "What... what do I do?"

----

## Winning Through Guile

The war council room buzzed with renewed energy. Sunshine Prism, flanked by Hana and Riko, joined the three raid leaders around the table. Morale had skyrocketed after a string of successful scouting missions within the Celestial Temple. The second boss, Berntagund the Devourer, awaited them, and a potent cocktail of excitement and apprehension hung in the air.

"Alright everyone," boomed the leader of the Sun Kings, a bearded warrior with a scarred face, "let's get down to business! Berntagund might be nasty, but we've faced tougher. With your buffs, Sunshine Prism, this raid will be a glorious victory for Melody Haven!"

Sakura, despite the internal monologue screaming otherwise, offered a weak smile. "We're excited to contribute," she mumbled, "but I have a concern."

The confident smiles of the raid leaders faltered slightly. Concern from Sakura, once a rare occurrence, now held weight.

"Our intel suggests Berntagund isn't locked in an Escape Suppression Room," Sakura continued, "unlike Draco. This means a longer, more strategic battle. Are we... absolutely certain our current formations are optimal?"

The Sun Kings leader scoffed. "Our strategies have conquered bosses twice Berntagund's size! We just need your usual stellar performance, Sunshine Prism, and victory is ours!"

A tense silence followed. The other raid leaders, the guild leader of Midnight Order, a mage with a nervous twitch and the leader of Nordic Twilight, a roguish archer with a sly grin, echoed the Sun Kings leader's sentiment. Their dependence on Sunshine Prism's buffs had become a crutch, a way to mask their own shortcomings.

"Perhaps a test run is in order?" Hana suggested. "A mock battle, perhaps, against Melody Haven's skeleton army controlled by the students of the School of Necromancy? If the combined forces of three raid groups can't handle a training exercise..." her voice trailed off, but the message was clear.

The Sun Kings leader bristled. "A waste of time! We've faced skeletons before!"

But Riko stepped forward, a determined glint in her eyes. "If, as you say, you've conquered bosses twice Berntagund's size, then this mock battle should be a breeze, right? Just a little practice to showcase your skill." She planted both palms on the table, leaning forward. "Besides, this is the first time you're fighting a raid boss with Idol buffs. From your guys' attitude, you're making this huge assumption they can buff you and protect themselves at the same time. In other words, adding a support class to a raid is like adding another healer, but impactful in a different way. If you can't protect your favorite Idols in the heat of battle, you lose those buffs entirely."

The logic was undeniable. The raid leaders, cornered, finally conceded. However, they tacked on a condition. "Fine," the mage grumbled, "but we fight with the formations we've already established. After all, your buffs work best when synergizing with specific members, and if we want an accurate demonstration in the mock battle we need to use what we planned for Berntagund."

Sakura's stomach churned. This wasn't ideal. The proposed formations placed a heavy reliance on Sunshine Prism, essentially splitting their group to bolster each raid team. But refusing would expose their true plan – to subtly sabotage the raid from within.

With a forced smile, Sakura nodded. "Alright then. Let's prepare for a glorious... practice run!"

----

Backstage at the training grounds, the air buzzed with a different kind of energy. Sunshine Prism, clad in their usual flamboyant stage attire, bustled about, preparing for the mock battle. The air crackled with nervous excitement, a stark contrast to the usual pre-concert anticipation.

Hikari tightened the ribbons on her microphone pack. "Alright, everyone," she said, her voice firm, "remember, this isn't just some rehearsal. We need to give it our all. If these raid teams think just our usual performance will carry the day, they're in for a rude awakening."

"We can only sing for the specific groups we're assigned to," Aoi noted. "The key is to show them the limitations of relying solely on our buffs."

Sakura, adjusting her headset, gave a determined nod. "Don't worry, guys. The raid leaders are brimming with overconfidence. They need this wake-up call just as much as I did. They think we're magic bullets, forgetting that even magic bullets run out of magic."

A mischievous glint sparked in Aoi's eyes. "Speaking of running out, don't forget the little... side effect of the training weapons."

Hikari grimaced. "Right, the paint. We're going to look like a splatter painting by the end of this."

Sakura, despite the seriousness of the situation, couldn't help but chuckle. "Well, Aoi, at least you'll look good covered in red," she teased.

Aoi playfully swiped at Sakura with a mock pout. "Oh, so now you're the comedian? Just wait until you see the state of that pristine dress of yours."

The lighthearted banter served as a pressure release valve, a brief moment of normalcy amidst the tense situation. But underneath the playful jabs, a shared determination simmered. This wasn't just about proving the raid groups' inadequacies, it was about proving a point to themselves. They were more than just glorified buffs. More importantly, it was a way to save their lives from an ill-prepared raid.

----

The aftermath of the mock battle resembled a splatter painting come to life. Sakura, Aoi, and Hikari, along with the rest of the raiders, were splattered head-to-toe in a vibrant tapestry of red, blue, and yellow paint. Fluffy, their giant spider companion, wisely kept a wide berth from the colorful chaos, her eight beady eyes reflecting a hint of amusement.

The guild leaders, somehow expecting a 'fair fight' in an exhibition match, assumed the skeleton army were comparable to the horrors they faced in the Tomb of the Fallen King, a Level 80 raid dungeon filled to the brim with an undead horde. They had forgotten the brief skirmish they made against Melody Haven months ago against the same army that defended the town, and the reason they were forced to swear an oath on the Crown to protect said town.

Their first surprise had come in the form of the students controlling the skeleton army. The students of the School of Necromancy weren't just novices – they were high-level adventurers from the Steel Viper guild enrolled in a mandatory 'master the Necromancer class' mandate from their guild leader, members of the raid that had taken part in tackling Draco the Gatekeeper. The Steel Vipers had first-hand knowledge of the usefulness of the skeletons, so instead of dismissing them as fodder to be destroyed by the dozen they were tools of strategic placement. Of course, it did not hurt that the other three guilds looked down on the Steel Vipers for their 'underhanded mercenary' outlook at raiding (of which the Steel Viper guild leader insisted was 'pragmatism'), so the Steel Vipers reveled at the chance to give their rivals a bloody nose.

The second 'surprise' unveiled itself as the battle commenced. Melodies, both sorrowful and stirring, began to emanate from the Melody Haven ramparts overlooking the field. Hana and Riko were the source, their violin and song amplifying the effectiveness of the undead legion. The two Idols of Moonlight Prism were long-known to be the backbone of Melody Haven's defending skeleton army, which enhanced the skeletons to become fierce fighters with their buffs, ones that surpassed the supposed 'benchmark' of the undead trash mobs from the Tomb of the Fallen King.

The three guild leaders, who were also watching the battle from the ramparts (having entrusted the raid groups to their subordinate, experienced raid leaders as planned), were understandably outraged, sputtered accusations of unfairness.

"Unfair?" Shizuka replied, her voice echoing across the grounds. "You scout out Berntagund before pulling it for real, like every other raid boss. If you were being serious about this mock battle you would have prepared against Melody Haven's finest defenders instead of assuming your Berntagund strategy would 'just work'."

The residents of Melody Haven, blissfully unaware of the staged nature of the battle, roared with approval, watching the specacle with snacks from the town walls. The unexpected twists and turns of the mock battle had transformed it into a thrilling spectacle, a grand sporting event where their home team, the skeleton army, emerged victorious.

Sakura, looking up at the jubilant crowd, felt a wave of relief wash over her. Their elaborate charade had worked. The raid groups had been exposed, their weaknesses laid bare. Publicly admitting defeat within the controlled environment of a mock battle was far better than a humiliating disaster within the Celestial Temple.

But the celebration was short-lived for Sunshine Prism. Exhausted and sticky with paint, Sakura announced, "Alright, everyone, great work! Now... a very long bath is definitely in order."

----

Laughter bubbled out of Riko, punctuated by snorts and choked gasps. Shizuka and Hana turned towards her, amusement dancing in their eyes at the sight before them. On the vast training field outside Melody Haven, what could only be described as a paint-splattered massacre unfolded. Three teams, each with a paint-splattered member of Sunshine Prism, stumbled around the mock battlefield, their bright outfits marred by colorful splotches. Melody Haven's skeletal army, commanded with newfound enthusiasm by the first-strike raid survivors, moved with ruthless efficiency, their bony forms flanking and encircling the panicked singers.

"Oh, I can't believe they let Aoi chase her own tail out there!" Riko wheezed, clutching her stomach. "It's shameful the raid can't protect them, but it's just too funny."

Hana chuckled, her amusement tinged with a hint of satisfaction. "Serves them right, trying to be heroes without the work." The sight of Sunshine Prism, their carefully crafted image destroyed by paint and exertion, was a welcome change. "This mock battle will definitely get the guild leaders to reconsider that second boss raid."

Shizuka sat perched on the rampart's edge, her gaze fixed on the chaos below. "Don't be so sure," she said, her voice devoid of mirth. "While this might highlight her lack of experience, it doesn't truly diminish Sakura's influence."

Hana frowned. "What do you mean? People can see now how unprepared Sunshine Prism are."

"They are," Shizuka conceded. "But remember, this was the solution Sakura needed – a way out of the raid without losing face. Sakura knew she lacked the experience, too, so the world knowing doesn't matter to her; it only enhances her story. This mock battle might buy her some time, but it doesn't guarantee she'll learn a lesson."

Riko's laughter died down, replaced by a thoughtful frown. "So, what do we do then? Just keep an eye on them?"

Shizuka nodded, her gaze sweeping across the city below. "Exactly. This fight isn't over yet. Sakura is still a popular figure, and that influence could be used in even more dangerous ways."

The mock battle was a necessary performance, a public display highlighting the dangers of the Celestial Temple and the folly of recklessness. But for Shizuka, Hana, and Riko, it was just another note in a long, complex song.

----

The bathroom was a kaleidoscope of steam and laughter. Sakura, Aoi, and Hikari, submerged in a giant porcelain tub, resembled three drowned mermaids, only their brightly colored hair breaking the surface of the soapy water. Fluffy, the curious observer, perched on the windowsill, her eight beady eyes peering in at the aquatic spectacle.

Sakura sighed contentedly, letting the hot water seep into her aching muscles. "That was definitely... interesting," she said, her voice muffled by the bubbles.

"Interesting?" Aoi snorted, scrubbing paint out of her hair. "More like a chaotic masterpiece worthy of a performance art festival gone wrong."

"Hey, it worked!" Hikari pointed out, her eyes sparkling. "The raid's off, everyone's egos are... mostly... intact, and we're all clean... eventually."

Sakura winced. The clean part might be optimistic, considering the sheer volume of paint they'd managed to accumulate during the mock battle. But she pushed the thought aside, focusing on the bigger picture.

"So, what now?" Aoi asked, her voice laced with a hint of apprehension. "We can't exactly keep pulling these elaborate charades. Sooner or later, the Celestial Temple issue is going to resurface."

Hikari hummed thoughtfully. "True, but at least the next time around, the raid groups will be more prepared. We exposed their weaknesses, and hopefully, they'll take it seriously and do some proper preparation."

Sakura nodded. "In the meantime, we can keep morale up with our usual weekend concerts. Music might not be able to slay celestial beasts, but it can keep hope alive."

A comfortable silence settled over them for a moment, broken only by the gentle lapping of water and the rhythmic patter of Fluffy's legs against the windowsill.

Aoi's voice, playful but firm, cut through the quiet. "Just a heads-up, Sakura," she said, "next time you need a reality check, try something that doesn't involve publicly humiliating ourselves and potentially turning us into living paint palettes."

Sakura sputtered, bubbles erupting from her mouth. "Hey! It wasn't all bad! We got everything we wanted."

Aoi raised a skeptical eyebrow. "Oh really? And whose inspirational speech convinced everyone we'd be indispensible for the Celestial Temple raid?"

Sakura blushed, sinking deeper into the water. The memory of her grand pronouncements, fueled by ambition and ignorance, still stung. The Celestial Temple raid might be called off, but it did not change their own situation - their lack of practical raid experience.

----

## Some People Never Change

The door to their shared living quarters burst open, revealing a spectacle that made Sakura choke on her spit. Mina, their ever-unpredictable companion, stood before them, resplendent in a shimmering J-pop idol outfit. It was a dazzling display of pink ruffles, glittering sequins, and a skirt so short it wouldn't be out of place on a concert stage.

"Behold!" Mina declared, striking a dramatic pose. "Mina, the magnificent idol!"

Sakura spluttered, finally managing to gasp, "The idol? Mina? Since when?"

Aoi raised an eyebrow. "Is this another one of your... phases, Mina?"

Mina's smile faltered slightly. In the past, Mina's occupational choices had been a whirlwind of nun, rogue, and even a brief stint as a jester. It was hard to keep track, and there was no telling what other persona she dabbled in when they weren't looking.

"Actually," Mina said confidently, "I finally mastered the Idol class. Turns out, you can be an idol without being the best singer or dancer. More focus on the theatrics, the physical performance. Perfect for someone like me!"

Hikari tilted her head. "And are you sure this isn't just another one of your fickle fancies, Mina?"

Mina waved a dismissive hand. "Nonsense! I've found my calling! Now, how about it, Hikari? We can create a side act with dazzling stage presence and... well, maybe not the best vocals. Would you like to be my partner?"

Hikari glanced at Fluffy, the giant spider perched menacingly on her shoulder. Fluffy's eyes gleamed with a distinct lack of enthusiasm.

"Uh... no thanks, Mina," Hikari said, a polite smile plastered on her face. "I think I'll stick to... other things."

As if on cue, Fluffy shot a strand of web at Mina, neatly sticking her to the wall. The idol outfit did little to protect against the sticky adhesive.

Mina let out a surprised yelp, followed by a burst of laughter. "Alright, alright! You win this round, web-head! I guess I deserve that one."

Sakura, Aoi, and Hikari exchanged amused glances. Dealing with Mina's constant reinvention was a trial, but it was undeniably entertaining.

"Well," Sakura announced, clapping her hands together, "who's up for some food? My stomach is starting to protest all this excitement."

Aoi and Hikari readily agreed. As they started to head out, a muffled voice called out from behind them.

"Hey! A little help getting unstuck here? The life of an idol can be so... sticky."

Mina's voice was laced with good-natured amusement. Shaking their heads with a mix of exasperation and affection, the Sunshine Prism girls left their webbed idol companion behind, ready for some food and a break from the usual Mina-induced chaos.

----

## Not the Promised Victory Lap

Backstage, the air crackled with a tension that wasn't the usual pre-concert buzz. The weight of the cancelled raid hung heavy on Sakura's shoulders. This concert, she had envisioned, would be a victory celebration, a roaring testament to their triumph over Berntagund, the second boss of the Celestial Temple. Now, it felt like a hollow echo, a cruel reminder of their elaborate charade.

"This is humiliating," Sakura muttered, staring at her reflection in the dusty mirror. "Going on stage with nothing to show for it."

Aoi slung an arm around her shoulder. "Hey, it could be worse. We could be six feet under in the Celestial Temple, right Fluffy?"

Fluffy, perched on Hikari's shoulder, clicked her mandibles in agreement. Her eight beady eyes, however, held a hint of amusement at the situation.

Hikari chimed in, her voice a gentle melody, "Aoi's right, Sakura. We may not have conquered the temple, but at least we're alive. And we still have our music."

Sakura looked at her two companions, their unwavering support a balm to her stinging pride. They were alive, and that was what truly mattered.

Taking a deep breath, Sakura straightened her shoulders. The stage lights beckoned, a familiar warmth washing over her. As they stepped out onto the platform, the roar of the cheering crowd washed over them. A sea of faces, alight with anticipation, greeted them.

For a moment, Sakura faltered. But then, Aoi's hand squeezed hers, a silent reassurance. Hikari, a familiar spark in her eyes, gave her a reassuring smile. And Fluffy, perched on the edge of the stage, clicked her mandibles in a silent cheer.

This wasn't a victory concert for the Celestial Temple. This was a concert for them, for their music, for the bond they shared with their fans. As the first notes of their song filled the air, a wave of relief washed over Sakura. The melody they played wasn't a song of conquest, but of the power of friendship. It was a song they needed to hear just as much as the audience.

The concert ended in a flurry of cheers and applause. Backstage, catching her breath, Sakura finally allowed herself a smile. It wasn't the triumphant grin she had envisioned, but it was a smile nonetheless. A smile that acknowledged the mess they'd gotten themselves into, but also the strength they had found in facing it together.

----

## The Nature of an Isekai Protagonist's Harem

The bustling Melody Haven marketplace was a cacophony of shouts, haggling, and the rhythmic clanging of metal being forged. Sakura weaved through the throng, dodging a particularly enthusiastic fishmonger and his airborne mackerel, when a boisterous voice cut through the din.

"Well, well, well, if it isn't the Sunshine Princess herself!"

Sakura sighed. There, leaning against a fruit stall like a peacock surveying its domain, was Kazuki, the self-proclaimed isekai protagonist. Surrounding him, like a bevy of brightly colored butterflies, were his usual entourage of scantily clad women – his harem.

"Kazuki," Sakura acknowledged, her voice tight. "Lovely to see you... and everyone."

Kazuki gave a theatrical flourish, his hand sweeping towards his companions. "Ah, the ladies! Always a pleasure to grace the marketplace with their... presence."

He turned back to Sakura, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Speaking of lovely ladies, where are your companions, Aoi and Hikari? I always enjoyed a bit of verbal sparring with the lithe firebrand."

Sakura couldn't help but roll her eyes. "They're... busy. With things."

Kazuki's grin widened. "A shame! A shame, I say. A little sparring keeps things interesting. You know, I always found Aoi's feistiness... endearing."

Sakura felt her annoyance simmer. Kazuki was known for his... indiscriminate... taste in women. Here he was, practically propositioning her by proxy. Time to nip this in the bud.

"Actually, Kazuki," she said, her voice flat, "I'm... not interested. In you, or... sparring."

Kazuki's smile faltered for a second. "Not interested? But... but why not? I'm Kazuki, the Hero of Light! The slayer of—"

"I'm a lesbian," Sakura interrupted, deadpan.

The air hung heavy for a moment. Then, a comical realization dawned on Kazuki's face.

"Oh," he said, his voice small. "Right. That..."

He trailed off, awkwardly shuffling his feet. His harem, sensing the shift in the conversation, started whispering amongst themselves.

Suddenly, Kazuki turned on his heel and started walking away, his head hung low. His harem, like a flock of startled birds, scurried after him.

Sakura stared after them, dumbfounded. Did... did he just give up? The audacity!

She fumed for a moment, then yelled after him. "Hey! Where are you going? Why am I suddenly not good enough for your harem?"

Kazuki and his entourage disappeared into the teeming marketplace crowd. Sakura stood there, speechless, the marketplace noises suddenly deafening.

----

Sunshine Prism, plus their ever-present spider companion Fluffy, piled into a booth at their usual lunch spot. Mina, having shed the idol outfit for a more practical ensemble of loose pants and a tank top, slid into the seat opposite them.

"So," Mina began, digging into a plate of steaming dumplings, "what's the latest gossip? Don't tell me you're still fuming about Kazuki, Sakura?"

Sakura, poking at her salad with a disgruntled frown, mumbled, "It's just... the audacity! To suddenly lose interest because I'm a lesbian!"

Aoi scoffed. "Sakura, Kazuki's about as deep as a puddle after a summer shower. Don't waste your time."

Hikari, with a playful glint in her eyes, nudged Aoi. "Oh, come on, Aoi! You talk about Kazuki all the time!"

Aoi's cheeks flushed a faint pink. "Do not! I wouldn't be caught dead discussing the insufficiencies of that... that... self-proclaimed hero!"

"Tsundere much?" Hikari teased, earning a playful swat from Aoi.

Sakura, however, couldn't let the topic drop. "Actually," she said, "he did seem kind of excited to see you, Aoi. He said he enjoyed your... feistiness."

Aoi's blush deepened. "That was... a long time ago! We went on one dinner date, that's all. After that, he lost interest and started... collecting Mina."

Mina, who was busy shoveling dumplings into her mouth, choked on a mouthful of food. "Collecting? I wouldn't say that! Kazuki and I... well, there's no chemistry there. None at all!"

Wiping her mouth with a napkin, Mina leaned forward. "Listen, Aoi, if you actually like the guy, why not talk to him? Maybe things fizzled out because you didn't—"

"I don't like him!" Aoi practically shouted, her voice laced with a defensiveness that betrayed her flustered expression.

The other girls exchanged knowing glances, a chorus of giggles erupting from the table.

"Oh, Aoi," Hikari chimed in, wiping a tear from her eye. "You're so bad at this! It's cute, really."

Aoi crossed her arms, her face burning red. "I swear, if you all don't stop—"

But the teasing continued, the melody of their laughter filling the air. Fluffy, the resident spider, clicked her mandibles in amusement, her beady eyes reflecting the playful chaos.

----

Frustration gnawed at Aoi's gut as she stalked Kazuki and his entourage through the bustling streets of Melody Haven. His harem, a cacophony of glittering skirts and clanging jewelry, drew attention like moths to a flame. Aoi, disguised in a simple brown cloak and hood she usually reserved for undercover missions, navigated the throng, keeping a safe distance.

A glance at Kazuki's status bar, visible thanks to her special eyepiece, revealed a surprising detail – Level 55. Most of the women in his harem, adorned with flashy enchanted armors, boasted levels well above 60. Aoi scoffed. Kazuki, the self-proclaimed Hero of Light, couldn't have survived this long in Atheria without clinging to the coattails of overpowered adventurers. He was either incredibly lucky or using some underhanded tactic.

A sudden tap on her shoulder made Aoi jump. It was Mina, her usual theatricality replaced by a solemn expression.

"Mina?" Aoi's voice was a low growl. "Why are you following me?"

Mina held up her hands defensively. "Following? Don't flatter yourself, Aoi. I just happen to be walking in the same direction."

Aoi raised a skeptical eyebrow. "Convenient."

Mina rolled her eyes. "Look, the real question is why are you stalking Kazuki?"

Aoi bristled. "Stalking? I'm not stalking anyone!"

The lie tasted bitter on her tongue. But admitting she cared about what Kazuki was doing felt... well, she wouldn't be caught dead admitting to anything resembling tsundere feelings for him.

Mina sighed, a hint of amusement flickering in her eyes. "Aoi, honey, denial is a river in Egypt. Listen, if you actually care, just talk to the guy."

Aoi crossed her arms, scowling. "I don't care! I just... happen to be curious about his... harem selection strategy."

Mina chuckled, a warm, genuine sound. "There's a difference between liking someone and wanting them to be part of your... collection."

Aoi's cheeks burned, but she kept her scowl in place. "Of course there is! And I don't like Kazuki! I wouldn't be caught dead... holding hands with him in public!"

Mina's smile widened. "Hmm, well, if you ever change your mind, holding hands is a perfectly acceptable alternative to being part of a harem. Just saying."

Aoi felt a flicker of something warm in her chest, something that wasn't anger or denial. But before she could explore that feeling further, Mina winked and started walking away, leaving Aoi standing amidst the bustling crowd.

Aoi watched her go, a war raging within her. Maybe... maybe Mina had a point. Perhaps facing her feelings, whatever they were, was better than this childish game of following Kazuki around.

----

Aoi fidgeted in her seat at the dimly lit tavern, the clinking of glasses and murmur of conversation a soothing background melody to her churning stomach. Across from her, Hana and Riko dug into their steaming plates of stew, their usual playful banter muted.

"Alright," Aoi blurted out, unable to hold back any longer. "I need relationship advice."

Hana, mid-chew, nearly choked on a potato. "Relationship advice? From me? I haven't been on a date since... well, ever!"

Riko chuckled, a warm sound that filled the air. "Well, Hana, we have a good relationship, wouldn't you say?"

Aoi waved a dismissive hand. "Sure, sure, whatever floats your boat. But the point is, you two are a team. You understand each other."

Hana and Riko exchanged a glance, a silent conversation passing between them.

"Alright," Riko said, her voice laced with amusement. "What's the real problem?"

Aoi hesitated, fiddling with the hem of her cloak. "There's this guy... I, uh... well..."

She trailed off, the words getting caught in her throat. Finally, with a resigned sigh, she mumbled, "I like him. But he's always surrounded by... a flock of... scantily clad, overly busty..."

Aoi's voice trailed off again, but Hana, a knowing smile playing on her lips, finished the sentence for her.

"Kazuki?"

Aoi's head snapped up, her cheeks burning crimson. "How did you know?"

Hana shrugged. "It wasn't exactly a guessing game, Aoi. Everyone in Atheria knows who Kazuki is. Look, the key to any relationship, whether romantic or platonic, is communication. And the first step to communication is being honest with yourself."

Hana's words hit Aoi like a physical blow. Honesty. It was the one thing she'd been avoiding.

"But..." Aoi stammered, her voice barely a whisper. "Look at me. And look at them. I don't stand a chance."

Hana's smile softened. "Aoi, listen to me. You are strong, talented, and kind. Your worth isn't measured by the size of your chest or the amount of skin you show. And any guy who can't see that... well, he's not worth your time anyway."

Aoi felt a flicker of warmth bloom in her chest, a melody of hope challenging the discordant notes of self-doubt. Maybe Hana was right. Maybe Kazuki, with his harem of flashy distractions, wasn't the answer after all. Maybe the melody of her heart needed a different kind of partner, someone who valued her for who she truly was.

"So, what do I do?" Aoi asked, a newfound determination lacing her voice.

Riko leaned forward, her eyes twinkling. "Well, Aoi, why don't you start by talking to him? See if there's actually a spark there, beyond the... harem drama."

Aoi took a deep breath, the air tasting a little lighter. Talking. It seemed simple, yet daunting. As she looked at Hana and Riko, their bond a testament to the power of genuine connection, Aoi knew she wasn't alone.

----

Aoi paced outside the bustling tavern, her heart hammering a frantic rhythm against her ribs. Talking to Kazuki, the self-proclaimed Hero of Light and his entourage of scantily clad beauties, was not how she envisioned spending her afternoon. Yet, here she was, fueled by the melody of Hana and Riko's advice – communication and honesty.

Taking a deep breath, Aoi squared her shoulders and pushed open the tavern door. The familiar cacophony of chatter and clinking glasses washed over her. There, in a corner booth, sat Kazuki, surrounded by his usual coterie of women, their laughter echoing through the room.

Aoi approached the booth, each step heavy with anticipation. Kazuki, mid-chew, looked up, his eyes widening in surprise. "Aoi? What are you doing here?"

Before Aoi could answer, one of the women, a fiery redhead with an impressive amount of cleavage displayed in a plunging top, spoke up. "Is she joining the harem, Kazuki?"

Aoi bristled, ready to unleash a verbal barrage, but then stopped. No, that wasn't why she was here.

"No," Aoi replied, her voice surprisingly steady. "I... just wanted to see how you're doing, Kazuki."

Kazuki seemed to deflate at that, his bravado vanishing. He stammered, "Uh, I'm... I'm doing alright, I guess. Just hanging out with the girls. You know how it is."

He looked like a cornered deer, a stark contrast to the overconfident hero persona he usually projected. Aoi, her initial anger replaced by a flicker of curiosity, found herself pulling up a spare chair.

The other women, whom Aoi had initially dismissed as mindless eye-candy, surprised her. They not only welcomed Aoi with warm smiles but also steered the conversation away from Kazuki's usual isekai exploits. They talked about their adventures, the challenges they faced working as a team, and even their dreams for the future. Aoi found herself captivated, impressed by their intelligence and camaraderie.

As the afternoon wore on, Aoi realized something profound. Kazuki, for all his bluster and theatrical pronouncements, had somehow assembled a team of strong, capable women who understood the power of synergy. Perhaps, that was the secret to his unlikely success, not a harem of beautiful faces.

Finally, with the sun beginning to dip below the horizon, Aoi rose to leave. As she bid farewell, a silver-haired woman with piercing blue eyes stopped her.

"Wait," she said, handing Aoi a small golden card. "Kazuki wanted to give you this, but he's... well, you see, getting up with everyone around him is a bit of a challenge."

Aoi glanced at the crowded booth, a hint of a smile playing on her lips. Here was the great Kazuki, trapped by the very harem he'd built. "I understand," she said, accepting the card with a chuckle. "Thanks."

On the card was a simple inscription: 'Kazuki – Hero of Light.'

Aoi tucked the card into her pocket, the melody of the encounter lingering in her mind. It wasn't the fiery confrontation she'd envisioned, but it was... something. Perhaps, honesty had opened the door to a new kind of conversation.

----

Aoi slammed the door shut behind her, the sound echoing in the shared apartment. Leaning against the cold wood, she took a deep breath, the events of the afternoon still swirling in her head. Fluffy scuttled down from her perch on the ceiling and landed gently on Aoi's shoulder.

"Alright, Fluffy," Aoi sighed, her voice barely a whisper. "What do I even do with all this?"

Fluffy clicked her mandibles softly, her beady eyes gleaming with silent understanding. Aoi ran a hand over the spider's furry back, drawing comfort from the familiar touch.

"It was... different," Aoi admitted. "Not at all what I expected."

She thought back to Kazuki, the bluster toned down, the awkwardness bubbling over. The harem, once an annoyance, were surprisingly insightful and supportive. It was like a mirror had been held up, shattering the image Aoi had built of them.

"Maybe... maybe that was the Kazuki I liked that night," Aoi murmured, her voice laced with a hint of wistfulness. "The guy who fumbled over his words and actually listened."

A frown creased her brow. "But then... what about the harem? Why would Mina ditch him if they were actually good people?"

Fluffy clicked again, a curious rhythm to it. Aoi chuckled, a single note breaking the tension.

"You're right," Aoi said, scratching Fluffy behind her head. "Maybe they're a good team, but that doesn't mean it's something I want."

She sighed again, a heavier sound this time. "The truth is, Fluffy, I'm Level 99. I can't just be part of a team that's getting carried. I don't want to be a babysitter."

Aoi continued to talk, her voice weaving a melody of confusion and newfound understanding. Fluffy, her loyal companion, listened patiently, her clicks a soothing counterpoint. As the sunlight began to fade, casting long shadows across the room, Aoi felt a flicker of something new – not certainty, but a path forward, a melody that might not include Kazuki or a harem, but one that held the promise of genuine connection, on her own terms.

----

## The Danger Remains

The weight of the Celestial Temple hung heavy in the air of the Sunshine Prism apartment as the girls settled around the worn coffee table. The initial shock of the cancelled raid had worn off, replaced by a sobering realization of the challenges that lay ahead.

Sakura, the group's leader, cleared her throat. "Alright, let's summarize what's going on. The three guilds we're collaborating with are focusing on upgrading their equipment and training their adventurers. However, the guild Shizuka..." Sakura winced slightly, "... recruited for the 'first strike' team, has a different approach."

"Different how?" Hikari asked, her brow furrowed.

"They're... focusing on necromancy. Building up an elite skeleton army to supplement their ranks."

Aoi scoffed. "Elite skeletons? Weren't those supposed to be the deciding factor against Draco the Gatekeeper, the first boss?"

Sakura nodded grimly. "Exactly. But apparently, necromancy saved their unprepared..." she paused, searching for the right word, "behinds. Now they're doubling down on it."

Aoi's scoff morphed into a frown. "So why aren't everyone just mastering Necromancer then? Seems like a quick fix."

Sakura and Hikari exchanged a hesitant look.

"There's... a stigma against necromancy," Sakura explained. "Many raiders consider it a dark art. And let's be honest, raising an army of the undead feels... unsettling. Immoral. Wrong." Her eyes dimmed. "Evil."

Hikari chimed in, "But... it's undeniably effective. And hey, at least it's easier to replace a skeleton than it is an adventurer."

Aoi raised an eyebrow. "Especially since there's no coming back from being dead in Atheria, right?"

The air grew thick with a heavy silence. The weight of that statement, the finality of death in their world, pressed down on them all.

Aoi, her voice tight, finally spoke, "Look, I appreciate you trying to keep us safe, Sakura. But I'm sticking to my guns. No Celestial Temple for me."

Sakura's gaze softened, a flicker of sadness in her eyes. "I understand, Aoi. But the problem is, with our current strategy, we rely heavily on Hana and Riko to... well, to use their Idol abilities to buff everyone up. And they're the only other Level 99 Idols out there."

Hikari's eyes widened. "So... we're putting them in danger?"

Sakura looked away, her shoulders slumping slightly. "Every time an adventurer enter that temple, we're putting everyone at risk. But... I'd rather see Hana and Riko get hurt than either of you."

The room fell silent once more, the weight of Sakura's words hanging heavy in the air. Aoi and Hikari both felt a surge of gratitude for their leader, but also a prick of discomfort. The idea of someone else taking the brunt of the danger for them felt... wrong.

----

The Dragon's Breath tavern in the heart of Melody Haven buzzed with a nervous energy unlike its usual raucous patrons. In a secluded corner booth, shrouded in flickering candlelight, Hana and Riko sat across from Aoi and Hikari. The tension crackled in the air, thicker than the stale ale on the table.

"So," Riko drawled, her voice dripping with suspicion, "what's this all about, Aoi? Don't tell me Sunshine Prism suddenly developed a taste for cheap beer and bad company."

Aoi, her usually bright smile strained, fiddled with the hem of her skirt. "We... we needed to talk to you, away from prying ears."

"About?" Hana prompted, leaning forward.

Aoi took a deep breath. "Sakura... she has plans. Plans that involve you and Riko."

Riko snorted. "Let me guess, she wants us to sing lullabies to the next Celestial Temple boss?"

Aoi shook her head, her face etched with worry. "No, it's worse. She's using her influence with the guild leaders to force you both onto all future raid teams for the Celestial Temple."

Hana blinked, a confused frown creasing her brow. "Force us? We were always going to be part of the raids, weren't we?"

A flicker of surprise flitted across Hikari's face. "But... but Sakura made it very clear. She said she valued our lives more than yours."

Riko laughed, a harsh, cynical sound. "Oh, please. Sakura wouldn't know loyalty if it bit her in the backside. She'd trip over her designer sandals trying to run away from the first sign of danger."

Hana nodded in agreement. "Exactly. We have Shizuka. She's the strongest Asura in Atheria, a living legend! We'll be fine."

Aoi winced at the mention of Shizuka. "Hana, that's the problem. Sakura... she's been... resurfacing stories about Shizuka from her past, you know, the mercenary stuff. And that whole 'hoarding' all the katana loot drops? She's blown it way out of proportion to make Shizuka look greedy and untrustworthy."

A bitter taste settled on Hana's tongue. Sakura, playing the victim again, twisting narratives to suit her agenda. "We've heard those rumors. They're ridiculous, especially after what happened with Draco the Gatekeeper."

"Regardless," Aoi continued, her voice urgent, "public opinion has shifted. There are whispers that Shizuka might not even be allowed on the next raid team."

Hana scoffed. "That's absurd! You can't just exclude the strongest fighter in the city because of some fabricated gossip campaign!"

Aoi's face fell. "I'm not saying it's right, Hana, I'm just telling you the situation. You and Riko are in danger. Sakura wants you to be the expendable ones, the distractions while she..."

"Cowers in the back, waiting to claim victory?" Riko finished Aoi's sentence with a sneer. "Look, Aoi, we appreciate the concern, but we can take care of ourselves. And let's be honest, you're not exactly chomping at the bit to be a hero either, are you?"

Aoi's cheeks burned crimson, but she remained silent.

Hana stood up, pushing back her chair with a screech. "We'll be fine," she declared, her voice laced with steel. "We know what we're up against. This is what we want to do. Nothing you said changed anything. You want to be Sakura's little lapdogs? Fine. But don't expect us to join you on your cowardice parade."

With that, Hana stomped out of the tavern, Riko trailing behind her with a final withering glance at Aoi and Hikari. The melody of the night had turned discordant, a clash between manufactured fear and unwavering determination. 

----

The rickety tavern door slammed shut with a finality that echoed the heavy silence that had descended upon Aoi and Hikari. The weight of Hana and Riko's words hung heavy in the air, a bitter truth Aoi hated to acknowledge.

Hikari, usually the more optimistic of the two, was uncharacteristically quiet. Finally, she spoke, her voice barely a whisper. "Maybe... maybe Riko had a point, Aoi."

Aoi flinched. Cowardice. The word stung, but there was no denying its truth. By insisting on avoiding the raid at all costs, hadn't they, in a way, been validating Sakura's narrative?

Shame burned in Aoi's gut. She hated the feeling of helplessness, of being manipulated by Sakura's machinations. Yet, the thought of facing a monstrous boss like Berntagund filled her with a terror she couldn't ignore.

"So... what do we do?" Hikari asked, her voice laced with a tremor of uncertainty.

Aoi met her gaze, a flicker of determination building within her. "We can't just sit here and... and let Sakura control the narrative," Aoi said, her voice gaining strength. "And maybe... maybe avoiding the whole thing isn't the answer."

She took a deep breath, her gaze locked with Hikari's. "Look," Aoi continued, her voice trembling slightly, "is it... is it crazy to think that maybe... maybe we should actually learn how to raid?"

The question hung in the air, a challenge, a melody shift. Hikari didn't reply immediately, but her eyes, reflecting the flickering candlelight, held a spark of something new – not fear, but a cautious hope. Perhaps, learning to fight, learning to protect themselves and their friends, was the answer they were looking for.

----

Hana lay curled up in their shared bed, the revelation from Aoi and Hikari swirling in her mind. "Do you think I was too harsh on Aoi, calling her a coward?" she asked, her voice barely a whisper.

Riko, already drifting off to sleep, snorted. "Not at all. If anything, you were being kind. The girl's practically built a nest out of Sakura's designer scarves."

Hana sighed. "It's just... disappointing. After everything, after the mock battle, after we practically saved their hides..."

"Saved their hides?" Riko scoffed. "More like saved their careers! Everyone saw Sakura get dragged through the mud on that field, but instead of highlighting how inexperienced she is, everyone's talking about how she's one of them."

The weight of disappointment settled deeper in Hana's chest. Sakura seemed to have a distortion field around her, capable of changing even the most humiliating outcome into an advantage. It only served as a reminder that Sakura was not an amateur at playing the game, that, while she had no true raid combat experience, she was a master of manipulation.

Sakura's apology letter, a crumpled piece of parchment tucked away in a hidden drawer, mocked her with its insincerity. The letter confessed Sakura's involvement in placing the anonymous bounty on Shizuka's head – a bounty that had drawn three separate raid groups, a total of 120 adventurers, to their doorstep, resulting in a bloody massacre outside the city walls.

"Maybe it's time we stopped giving her chances to screw us over," Hana muttered, clenching her fist. "Every time we try to help her she makes things worse for us."

Riko rolled onto her back, her gaze fixed on the ceiling. "Easier said than done, Hana. Sakura has her fingers on three out of the four raiding guilds protecting Melody Haven. They won't attack the town, but they can throw their weight around."

The silence stretched, thick with frustration and a tinge of fear. They forgave Sakura, allowing her back into Melody Haven to make amends for sending an external threat against their beloved town. Now, the threat was internal, one that would not be so easily dislodged now that it was allowed to nest in the heart of Melody Haven.

"I don't know, Riko," Hana confessed, her voice trembling slightly. "I just... I don't know what to do anymore."

Riko reached over and squeezed Hana's hand, a silent reassurance in the darkness. "Neither do I, Hana. But we'll figure it out. Together. Like always."




===========================================================================

This story is written with heavy AI assistance.

The fight against Draco the Gatekeeper serves as a huge turning point in the narrative. I didn't want to mirror a situation too closely to Sword Art Online, although it does have some similarities to it. And I especially didn't want to have Shziuka solo the boss and emphasize the exact opposite, that she couldn't do it. For Hana, this serves as a crisis point where her otherwise straight leanings actually delve into a single-target fixation with Shizuka, something I've toyed with in other stories where she obviously fails, but here in a fantasy world it's more open to exploration.

The thing about the traitor is he's couldn't be comically evil, that there was an understandable method to what he did. Yes, the traitor risked his life, both ways, in the raid, because at the end of the day he's still a raider. The Escape Suppression Room was almost certainly not planned, but obviously convenient and nominally would put nobody else at risk.

A point of note is when Shizuka uses which katana. For fine tuned control of the skeletons Shizuka needs a free hand, so dual wielding is out of the question. Her default weapon is Moonlight Herald, a statement of fighting for herself, but using Peacemaker is generally a statement that she's fighting for others. Using Windblade and River Edge is an all-offense build that gives Shizuka less control of the skeletons, effectively setting them on 'automatic'. She doesn't use Wraithblade because of its specialist utility, but Obsidian Annihilator is effectively now her 'backup' katana since it's now the 'weakest' weapon in her standing collection (it is still a legendary weapon, but it's not her go-to weapon like Moonlight Herald is-- and yes, her not using it most of the time would bristle rival raiders so their anger is fairly justified).

Berntagund is basically 'burn to the ground'. Yes, that is a suggestion on what it's going to do.


~ Razorclaw X