#01: A Star of Hope Rises in the Blue Sky


The seasons in the real world change on a particular schedule. The boundaries are vaguely delineated, yet the signs are recognized clearly by humans. Most humans in Kyoto were currently aware that the holiday season was upon them, even if much of the meaning of the holidays had been lost to Japan over the years.

– "Hey, look!"

Renko Usami pointed to a large banner hanging over the local mall, proudly enunciating the words.

– "Merry Christmas!"

– "Yes, yes..."

Maribel Hearn (Merry) brushed off the joke that had been made over a dozen times this week.

– "The best thing about this time of year is how your name is everywhere. It's like you're a celebrity."

– "Have you forgotten that it's not really my name?"

– "Of course not. It's just too hard to say, uh... Marielly... Marellybelly..."

– "I love you, Renko, but please don't try anymore. You're making it much worse."

– "Anyway, a name that means happiness suits you just fine. Because spending time with you always makes me happy!"

For someone so thoroughly dense, Renko also had a charming side. Smiling at the simple compliment, Merry reached affectionately for her partner's hand.

– "Oh wow, look at that! Hold these for a sec, will you?"

Dumping the handles of her heavy shopping bags into Merry's hand and leaving no time to protest, Renko dashed forward.

What could have grasped her attention so tightly? It didn't necessarily take much, but as she squinted her eyes Merry could make out a single star shining in the distance, even in the blue afternoon sky.