Groove Adventure Rave: Into the Sunset
Rave is copyright of Hiro Mashima, Kodansha and Tokyopop. No infringement is intended.
It was early in the morning when Elie woke, feeling more rested than ever before. As she rubbed her eyes, she wondered where the gang would be going next to look for Rave stones…
She stopped, suddenly recalling yesterday. There were no more Rave stones. They had saved the world.
She sighed, part in relief and part in joy. It felt so good to know she didn't have to spend the day worrying about the state of their quest like she had in the past. No more anguish about her memories, no more fighting psychopaths, no more friends getting hurt… From now on, life would be… She paused. What would her life be like now?
She felt a shifting next to her, and almost fell out of the bed when she realized Haru was next to her, one hand resting on hers. She recalled asking to share a bed with him last night, so she could stop having those nightmares about Lucia.
He always made her feel safe. Ever since she had met him, she always felt like nothing could hurt her while he was around. It was his confidence, the way he seemed so mellow and carefree about his task, yet determined and fierce whenever he faced injustice. He fought so hard to protect her and everyone else. She had never known someone to be so caring, not even King Marakia, who had had to leave her when she was sent into the future 52 years ago…
Haru awoke and blinked his eyes, seeing her look over him. He seemed surprised to see her for a second. "Oh… morning Elie."
"And a glorious morning it is." She smiled, feeling giddy all of a sudden. "It's the first day of the end of the quest!"
"Guess it is."
"Feel's great, doesn't it?"
"Sure does.."
They both suddenly realized Haru still had his hand on top of Elie's. She blushed, and Haru nervously chuckled as he pulled it back. "Eh he… sorry."
"It's okay."
He sat quietly, as if wondering what to do today, and Elie took the opportunity to stare at him. He looked a funny sight, his hair messed up from sleep, clad in just an old shirt and boxers, but they did nothing to marr his handsome features, and that mischevious, soulful look in his eyes.
"Say Elie, do you still want to hold that party?"
"Of course." She affirmed. "What, do you think I was just making it up?"
"Well, you do say some odd stuff at night."
"Oh really, like what?"
"Well, I think I heard you say 'All the pancakes are mine' last night."
She blushed. "I did not!"
"You did."
"Why on earth would I say something like that? It doesn't even make sense."
"I was just glad you weren't having anymore bad dreams."
He looked at her tenderly, and she felt a surge of emotion. Sitting here in bed with Haru.. it felt so right, so perfect… She wished they could just sleep in and she could cuddle him all day. To be so close with this caring man….
Suddenly, her daydream was shattered when Musica burst in. She jumped in fright, grabbing the bedcovers to cloak her body.
"Guys, get up! You gotta see this.." He gasped when he saw the two of them. "Holy… guess you two decided to celebrate last night."
"What!" Haru glared at him. "What are you suggesting?"
"Well, it does look like…"
"Get your mind out of the gutter Musica!" Elie spoke firmly. "I just came to sleep in here because I was having nightmares. Haru was a perfect gentleman."
"Yeah…" Haru nodded, though he was quite pleased at being called a gentleman.
Musica seemed satisfied by this explanation. "Well, that's Haru for you."
"What did you want anyway?"
"The Emperor is making some big speech on TV about Demon Card. I guess the army's finally gotten rid of most of the DC infantry. About time really."
Haru and Elie got up to follow him into the main living room. Shuda. Let, Julia and Ruby were all seated or standing, eyes fixed on the TV.
The screen showed the newly rebuilt Imperial Palace, with masses of people gathered outside the gates, held back by soldiers. The camera zoomed closer onto a balcony on the palace, where the Emperor could see seen, his wizened face looking over the crowd. Behind him stood his four generals, including General Jeid, one of the original four generals who had ruled before Demon Card had slaughtered the other three.
"People of the Continents.." The Emperor spoke, his voice amplified through large speakers. "As you are no doubt aware, our countries have been in terrible danger as of late. The organization known as Demon Card has terrorized us for many years, and just yesterday, they almost succeeded in a plot to destroy whole countries and exterminate millions."
There were gasps in the audience. Haru was glad few people knew the full story, that Lucia and the Demon Gods had destroyed the Demon Card HQ, then tried to set off an Overdrive-like explosion to power up the Endless and destroy the entire world. There would have been mass hysteria.
"Reports have been building ever since the Demon Card Headquarters was destroyed in an explosion. The leader was killed in the magical construct he had tried to use for destruction, and all over the globe, Demon Card troops and camps are surrendering. As we speak, our men are currently arresting them, and taking all their Dark Bring stones to be magically destroyed. I'm glad to say, the threat posed by Demon Card is well and truly over."
"YAAAYYY!" Elie yelled, leaping in the air.
"Yeah!" Musica cheered. "How bout that! We saved the world baby!"
Haru just smiled, feeling proud.
The Emperor continued. "This peace could not have come about without our brave soldiers, who valiantly battled against overwhelming odds, and the people of the continents themselves, many of whom extended their hands and hearts to help the war effort, and assist the suffering. But there is one person I feel, who deserves an honoured mention… the man known as the Rave Master."
Haru blinked. "Wha?"
"He's talking about you!" Elie gasped.
"Two years ago, we heard the first stories about the Rave Master, believed to be the second holder of the legendary Holy Bring. No one had been able to see his face, only vague descriptions were accounted for. But the stories of the Rave Master defeating several Demon Card camps, and some of its more powerful troops spread like wildfire. In recent months, our intelligence managed to find more evidence of the Rave Master. Though we still have no idea of his identity, or the band of warriors that followed him, his exploits are very real. This man and his allies went up against the strongest warriors in the world, including the infamous Doryu Ghost Squad and the Blue Guardians, and prevailed every time. Where others turned away, he faced the greatest evil we have ever known, and prevented it from wreaking havoc."
He looked to the sky. "Currently, we have no knowledge of the Rave Master's whereabouts, or even if he is still alive. But we, the Empire have this to say to him…"
"Thank You. Without you, Rave Master, it is doubtful we may be here today. For all you have done for us, we shall be eternally in your debt."
Then the Emperor and his generals bowed down, while the crowd outside went into a frenzy, yelling "RAVE MASTER! RAVE MASTER!"
"Wow…" Haru gasped in awe. All those people, cheering for him…
"Congratulations Haru." Shuda smiled. "You are now legendary."
Hearing those words, Haru felt more proud of what he had done than ever. Musica wasn't quite so pleased.
"That's it!" He yelled. "We went through all that crap, we almost got killed, and all we get is a thank you!"
"Shut up Silver Rhythm." Shuda groaned.
"This.. this isn't fair! We.. we should get knighted or something!"
"Musica.." Haru glared at him. "We didn't do this for fame and fortune. We did it to bring peace, you know that."
Musica sighed. "I know, I know… but still. Least they could have done was like… throw us a parade or name a street after us or something. Like Musica Avenue."
Elie piped up. "Hey, we could do that for you!"
"Name a street after me?"
"No. Haru and I were talking last night, and we've decided to throw a huge victory party on Garage Island. That is, if you guys are able to come." She looked worried. "I know you must have plans..."
"Hell, sounds great." Musica grinned. "Me and the boys never turn down a good bash."
"Of course we'll come." Let spoke. "We don't have anywhere to go to just yet."
"We don't?" Julia looked at him oddly. "…But of course we'll come, Elie. We have to celebrate after all."
"Sounds good…" Shuda just murmured, thinking of something else.
Suddenly, two men in overalls entered the room, unplugged the TV, and began to carry it out. The gang stared in confusion.
"What the…?
"Thieves! Brigands!" The yell led the group into the dining room. Inside, Iulius was running around, trying to prevent more men in overalls from removing the furniture. Belnika and Ruby were nearby, looking as confused as everyone else.
"Haru! Get your sword out! We're being looted!" He jumped when he heard a crash. "Noo! Don't touch that! That's Javanese Camphor wood!"
"What the hell is going on?" Shuda asked a mover. The man took out a form.
"Are you the guy who rents this place?"
"No, I am!" Iulius barked. "And I would appreciate it if you would kindly get out of my house and bugger off!"
"Sorry sir, but this place and all belongings inside it are property of the Empire now."
"What!" Since when?"
"Since we started taking back all the properties Demon Card stole from us. They've been making money off these places for years. Now we're taking it back and putting the cash to better use." The mover eyed Iulius suspiciously. "Did you know Demon Card owned this place?"
Iulius froze. "Umm.."
"No he didn't." Shuda interjected. "He rents this place from a guy who was incarcerated a while back."
"Oh, alright." The mover turned back to his men. "Alright boys, let's get this place cleaned out."
As they left with the furniture, Iulius exploded. "You were meant to stop them!"
"Look, that form was official, there's nothing we can do. Just be glad they don't know you were linked with Demon Card. They would have locked you up." Shuda replied.
Iulius was now panicking. "My God, what if they're at my other houses… the accounts I own!" He pulled out his mobile. "Hello, get me my accountant! I'm being fleeced!" He ran out of the room. "No! Leave my sculptures alone!"
Everyone looked bewildered, except Shuda, who was trying hard not to laugh.
"Poor Mr Iulius…" Belnika spoke.
"Poor is right." Shuda smirked. "I just hope he was smart enough to have some savings."
"I think we better get out of here." Let pointed out.
The gang left, Belnika looking very concerned as she thought of Iulius.
----------
Elie hummed to herself as she washed under the shower, enjoying the hot spray. The rest of the gang had relocated onto the Silver Knights to make preparations for their trip to Garage Island (Ruby, Griff, and the others were highly excited about Haru's huge party.) and she had ducked away for a refreshing shower and change of clothes before Musica badgered her into work.
She could not quite remember feeling this happy in a long time. Sure, there had been good times on their quest, but they had always been diminished by the ever growing threat of Demon Card. Now that they were gone for good, she could finally start living the good life. A quiet, carefree… no, something with travel… no, something where could visit casinos regularly…
She paused. What was she going to do with her life?
Ever since her memory loss, she had gone through life aimlessly, doing what she wanted and never worrying about things like work or where to live. As long as her luck held out at the roulette tables, she was always fine. Then she met Haru, and later Sieg, and suddenly, her life had a purpose. She wanted to find her lost past, so she could prove to Sieg and everyone else she was not just some nameless person. She wanted to learn about Aetherion, so she could use it to help Haru and save the world.
And she had done all that. But now.. what was her purpose?
She had her memory back, but that didn't really help her all that much. She could recall all her days in the distant past, when she was Resha Valentine, dancer and creator of Holy Bring. She had been famous and beloved by everyone. Her dancing skills are unsurpassed. And thankfully, King Marakia had arranged for her to be tutored in the castle while she lived there, so she wasn't a complete dunce.
But that was gone now. She'd given up her identity to be sent into the future by the king to help Haru destroy the Endless. As far as the world knew, Resha was gone and buried, and she was just plain old Elie. She wished she could go back fifty years, so she could be Resha again and dance. At least she could have an occupation again. But no, she was stuck here, utterly useless again…
She shook her head. "No.. this is a happy time. You can figure out what to do later. Right now, all you should worry about, is enjoying the fact you're still alive, and Haru is too…"
Haru.. when had he become so important to her? He'd started out as just some weird, naïve guy from some tiny island with a huge sword and a knack for getting into trouble. And two years later… she loved him.
She sighed as she thought about him, wondering what he was doing right now. Probably shifting some stuff onto Musica's ship, and getting all sweaty while doing so. She mentally giggled as she pictured him stripped to the waist, his taut muscles flexing from effort..
She blushed. More and more often, she thought about Haru in a rather naughty manner, and time and time again, she wondered why she never did anything about it. Julia and Belnika kept prodding her to tell him how she felt about him…
But they didn't know. They just assumed it was some crush on him. They could never understand the truth depths of her feelings for him. He'd done so much for her. He'd helped her find her past, looked after her, protected her, made her smile and laugh when things were bad, hugged her when she was sad… To imagine her world without Haru in it was just impossible. Which was why, when he had asked her to live with him on his island, she had almost jumped for joy.
But she had never said anything about her feelings. While she knew Haru cared for her, it was never clear whether he meant it as a friend or something more. Was he inviting her to live with him as a roommate, or a girlfriend? She wanted to ask him, but the fear of him not wanting her love, and leaving her was just too much.
"Here I go, getting depressed again." She sighed, thumping the shower wall with her hand. "I'll do it at the party. I'll just tell him and… nothing bad will happen. I'm sure."
She got out, got dried, and started getting dressed. She didn't feel like her usual skimpy top and miniskirt combo today, and instead found a yellow sundress. Conservative, but cut to reveal plenty of skin on her shoulders and upper chest.
As she left her room, her breath caught as Haru ran up to her.
"Hey Elie… wow.." He slowed down as he looked her over. His roving eyes caused her to blush,
"Um.. Haru.."
"Oh, sorry.." He rubbed his head. "I've just never seen you in a skirt that goes past your knees before."
"Haru!" She chided. He could be such a prat sometimes. "I do wear other skirts you know."
"I know, I know.." He smiled. "Seriously, you look lovely."
Her face turned more crimson. "Oh.. thanks."
"Anyway, you gotta come with me. Sieg's about to leave."
Elie gasped. "Sieg's leaving? He's not going to the party?"
"No, he's got some other job with the mages. I just thought you should say goodbye."
"Say goodbye? I want to convince him to stay!" She grabbed Haru's arm. "Come on, the two of us should convince him to party."
"It's Sieg. He's not exactly a party animal…"
The two ran down the corridor to the ship's exit.
----------
Musica hefted another box into the cargo bay, glad that this was the last one. Fuel was scarce at the moment, but at least there were plenty of supplies and water, and spare parts for the ship. They could always stop at some other town on the way before they reached Garage Island.
The Garage Island party was something he was highly looking forward to. Not only did he want to see just where Haru lived (and whether his sister was as hot as Shuda had described her to be) but the party he was planning looked to be pretty epic. After two years of fighting evil, it was time to kick back and let loose. It had been too long since he had really partied.
"Back to a normal life… such as it is.." He thought. He wondered what he was going to do once he got back to Punk Street. Robbing Demon Card casinos wasn't really viable anymore, and after all the crap he'd been through, he didn't want to travel anymore. He used to love just going where the wind took him, like when he joined Haru on his quest, but now, all he wanted was to settle down at his home. He figured he could move in with his grandfather at his forge, then find some job to work at for a bit til he figured out what to do with the rest of his life.
Yeah, things would be okay. He'd find some good career, get a girl..
"A girl…" He sighed. Lately, he'd come to realize he wasn't the playboy he prided himself on being once. A time ago, he could easily have seduced any girl he wanted, took anything he wanted from her. But ever since Reina had saved his life… he'd started actually caring about women again. Something he hadn't done since he dated Melodia… And that kept leading to the fear he might lose someone again. It didn't seem likely now things were quiet and he wasn't gallivanting around the world picking fights anymore, but it was something he didn't want to face again.
"Quit bringing yourself down." He told himself. "From here on out, things can only get better."
He noticed Hebi walking up, looking rather glum.
"Hey Boss.." He spoke listlessly. "The guys are finished with the engines, so we're ready to go, just give us the word."
"Great! Say… you okay? You seem a bit down. I thought you would be excited about the big party."
"Well, I am Boss, really." Hebi shrugged. "I'm just a little worried about the future."
"How so?"
"Well, you found the Silver Ray, right. And we've helped saved the world and stop Demon Card, so there's really no need for the Silver Rhythm crew to stay together."
Musica's eyes widened. "The crew is thinking of splitting up?"
"We, most of us are. Trouble is though, we're not sure we'll be able to look after ourselves."
"Hey, you guys are tough, you'll do just fine."
Hebi looked pained. "Boss, it's not like we can rob places anymore. The Empire's locking everything up now Demon Card is gone. And the guys want to try going straight. Most of them have families to look after now."
Musica now felt horribly guilty. He hadn't thought about his crew all that much when he had separated from them to join Haru's quest.
"Well… we should be able to get them some jobs. I mean, you're the best mechanic I know. Anyone would be glad to have you."
"I guess… but the others still have criminal records in some places."
Musica's head bowed. "Man.. all this time I was worried about beating Lucia… and I totally forgot about you guys."
Hebi patted his leader's shoulder. "Don't blame yourself Boss. You were just doing your thing to help Haru. You did what we could never do, we can't hold that against you."
"Yeah, but still.." A new determination flared in Musica's eyes. "Hebi, go tell the guys to take off, and not to worry. I'm gonna make sure they get taken care off."
Hebi blinked. "What do you mean?"
"I'm not sure yet. I'll try and find them jobs or something.. but I'm not gonna leave them in the cold, I promise!"
"Wow…" Hebi looked awed. "Th.. thanks boss! I'll tell the guys now!"
He ran off, leaving a pensive Musica.
"I want to help you guys… but how?"
"Hey Musica!" He turned to see Haru and Elie walk up. "Sieg's about to leave. You wanna say good bye before he goes."
"The Human Icecube is going?" He shrugged. "Hell, why not? The guy did save my ass once.."
----------
"Do you have to leave?" Elie pleaded to Sieg, who was standing with Niebel, Hilde, Mirutsu and the other mages. "I know parties aren't your thing, but I really wanted you to be there."
Sieg gave a sad smile. "Believe me, we would like to attend, but right now, we have work to do. The Endless may be gone, but it still did some damage to the Stellar Memory, thus affecting the timestream."
Niebel spoke up. "Yeah, you leave the timestream alone for just a few seconds, and it gets totally messed up and whacked."
Sieg rolled his eyes at his apprentice. "Yes, that would be the layman's term."
"Well, you do what you gotta do." Haru shrugged.
"Sieg…" Tears welled up in Elie's eyes, as she recalled that day when they had gone to the past to find her memory, and he had stayed behind, all to help her. "I… want to.. thank you for helping me." She sniffed. "You went through all that trouble for me… and I never did anything for you."
Sieg stepped forward and hugged. "That's not true. The past few months I spent helping you and your friends… it made me take a long look at myself and my life."
She looked up at him. "And.. what did you find?"
"Let's just say…" He cast a quick glance at Hilde. "I'm willing to spend more time with this world I try so hard to protect."
"I knew you could, someday.." Elie hugged him. "Promise you'll visit us on Garage Island someday."
"Yeah, don't be a stranger Sieg." Haru spoke.
"I still wanna learn some magic off you." Musica grinned. "So come around once in a while."
"My friends…" Sieg extended a hand. "You can count on it."
Haru and Musica shook his hand warmly, then the group of mages set off for their transportation. Musica could help but notice Sieg's arm was wrapped around Hilde as they walked off.
"Lucky bastard.." He mumbled under his breath.
"Man, this sucks." Haru sighed. "First Sieg goes… and we're gonna have to say goodbye to everyone else soon."
"Relax Haru, they'll still be around for a while." Elie smiled.
"Yeah, but for how long? I know it's selfish of me, but I really don't want anyone to go."
"They'll still see you." Musica consoled. "It's not like they're leaving forever."
"I wish I could be sure of that."
The three were silent for a while, before a loud shout broke their reverie. "YO! GLORY!"
They turn to a large, bald, barrel-chested man lumber up to them, followed by a lithe girl with pink hair. It was Yuuma Ansect, leader of the Liberation Army, and his daughter Nagisa.
"Glory! I thought we'd never find you!" Before Haru could react, the huge man grasped him in a bear hug. "We thought you'd bought it in that battle."
"Well… I'm tougher than that.." Haru managed to gasp from his constricted lungs. Yuuma released him.
"We just wanted to thank you." Nagisa continued. "Now Demon Card's gone, we and the Army can finally get back to normal lives."
Yuuma looked a bit sad. "Yeah, though I'm gonna miss smashing some thugs heads together…"
"Papa!" Nagisa whapped her father's side. "You promised after this was over, you were gonna retire."
"I mean it, I mean it!"
Haru and Elie chuckled at the scene. "So Yuuma, what are you doing now?"
Yuuma shrugged. "Eh, me and the boys are gonna kick back for a bit I guess, then we'll think about setting up home."
"Well, before you do that, how about you come with us to our party?" Elie grinned.
Yuuma and Nagisa's faces lit up. "A party?"
"Yeah, on Garage Island. We're gonna call it… Raveapalooza!"
Haru and Musica looked at her oddly. "Raveapalooza?"
"Sounds great! Are we all invited?" Nagisa asked.
"Sure! Invite the whole Liberation Army if you want!"
Haru blinked. The guest list was already big enough with his crew and the Silver Rhythm gang. Now Yuuma's entire army was coming? "Er.. I don't know if…"
"Great! I'll tell the guys!" The two turned to find their soldiers, then Yuuma stopped and looked back. "Oh, by the way, we picked up a few people who want to see you Haru."
"Who?"
"Some guys who helped us in the big fight with the DC troops. Said they knew you." And with that, Yuuma and his daughter were off.
Haru scratched his head. "Wonder who he meant by that?"
"Haru!" A blue blur appeared from nowhere, and wrapped itself around Haru.
"Gahh!" In surprise, he pushed the person back a little, and recognized the blue-haired maiden before him..
"Seria!" Elie gasped, remembering her mermaid friend from Mildesta. How long had it been since they saved Seria's mermaid home from being destroyed by Ogre and Doryu?
"Oh Haru! I'm so glad you made it out okay!" Seria kissed Haru on the cheek, emitting a blush from the Rave Master… and a slight streak of jealousy within Elie.
"N..nice to see you too!" Haru managed to speak. "You were in the battle?"
"Oh yes. After all you did for us, we mermaids just had to help you out." Seria smiled proudly. "Course, we had Mr Shapner help lead us."
She pointed at three more people who were approaching. Haru recognized them as their old friends from Rabarrier.
"Solacido! Remi! Fau!"
"Haru! Good to see you again." Solacido gave a friendly hug.
"Yeah, you too." Musica spoke. "He eyed Remi. "Nice to see you again too Remi.."
Remi rolled her eyes. "Save it Musica. I've already got a boyfriend."
"Worth a shot."
So you guys were fighting Lucia's troops while we were fighting him?" Elie asked.
Solacido nodded. "Yeah, it was pretty dicey. We've faced large numbers before, but that army of his was just never ending. Our troops would have been outnumbered if people hadn't pitched in."
"People?" Haru asked.
"Yes, lots of people joined in the fight." Seria replied. "Mermaids, people from all the neighboring towns…" She noticed a group approaching. "Oh, and those people as well. They were really helpful, since they had Dark Brings to use against the enemy."
Haru's eyes widened as he recognized just who the people were. Two huge, powerful looking men, one with a strange rabbit costume on, the other with a bald head and massive club in his hand. A thin man with a quiff haircut, a girl with leopard skin pattern clothes, a small teddy bear like creature, and a tall, stern woman holding a giant axe.
"Son of a…." Musica gasped. "The Blue Guardians."
They all recalled the Blue Guardians, the evil group whose leader, Hardner, had tried to take the Endless' power for his own before Haru defeated him, and Lucia had killed him for his piece of Sinclair.
Renard, the co-leader, laid down her axe, while Giraffe, Leopard, Koala, Tien and Lievre stood behind her. "Rave Master…" She spoke while bowing on one knee.
Haru was confused. The bad guys were bowing to him? "Okay, what are you guys up to?"
"Merely paying our respects." Renard replied. "You were able to defeat Lucia, the man who murdered our leader Hardner. You were able to extract the vengeance we were unable to do."
"That's why you fought with us? To get back at Lucia."
Giraffe shrugged. "Well yeah… that, and we didn't want the world to get destroyed."
"After that Lucia guy beat our Master…" Leopard spoke up. "We had nowhere to go. We were lost without our leader. Renard and Mr Ansect suggested we try helping people with our skills, like the Blue Guardians used to."
Musica eyed them skeptically. "And just like that, you're good guys now?"
"Please don't misunderstand us." Renard replied. "With Hardner gone, we merely wish to make new lives for ourselves. And all of us want to live honestly from now on, we promise."
Elie smiled. "Hey, anyone willing to fight on our side is okay with me."
"Hold on Elie…"
"Miss Elie!" A loud shout alerted them to two more approaching figures. One was a huge, muscular man in black spandex and wearing an eagle shaped hat, while the other was a small, elderly man with a snail like hat. It was Lazenby, the loud-mouthed, vigilante wannabe superhero who had helped the gang some time ago, and Ebamaru, the guardian of the Star Vestige, the holy place where one could access the Stellar Memory.
Lazenby kneeled before Elie. "Miss Elie! It's a joy to see your lovely face again!"
Elie looked bemused. "Er… nice to see you too Lazenby."
The hero produced a bouquet of flowers. "Now at last, I can finally ask…"
"Oh stop badgering the woman!" Ebamaru barked. "You know it's hopeless. She's not interested."
Lazenby looked at Elie hopefully. She shook her head. "Sorry Laz. I like you… but not in that way."
"Oh…" He got to his feet. "Excuse me." He walked away, out of sight. Seconds later, a loud "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" was heard in the entire area.
Ebamaru rolled his eyes. "Moron…. Anyway Haru, I heard you had come here, and wanted to give my congratulations."
"Oh, thank you." Haru shook his hand.
"I'm sure that if your father was here, he would be proud of you."
Haru smiled wistfully. "Yeah.. I hope he is."
"There he is!" Musica looked to see two women running toward them. One was tall with short cut green hair, while the other was younger, with blonde pigtails. As they came closer, Musica grinned.
"Finally, I get some love." He opened his arms. "Come to daddy, babes!"
The girls ran right past him, and grasped Haru in a hug. Musica's jaw dropped.
"Hey! No fair! I saved the world too you know!"
"Mr Haru!" The blonde girl cried. "I'm so glad you made it out alive!
Thanks…" Haru stammered, feeling very uncomfortable about two girls clinging to him in front of Elie. "Er… just who are you?"
Musica studied the girls. "Hey, I remember you two. You worked for Reina."
The taller girl, Sophra, pulled her younger friend Ranju off Haru. "We remember you too Musica. It was you who helped Reina destroy the Silver Ray."
"Yeah…" Musica glanced at the ground, old and unwanted memories returning.
"It's okay Mr Musica!" Renju piped up. "We don't hate you or anything. We know you tried to help Miss Reina. That's why we joined the battle, so we could repay you and honour her."
"Well… thanks I guess." Musica managed a smile.
Haru shook his head. "Man.. seems everyone's coming out of the woodwork to thank me."
"GLORY!" A loud voice boomed.
"See?" Haru sighed as he watched the new arrivals approach. A huge man with a skyscraper haircut, and a lithe woman with pink hair. He recognized them as Go and Rosa, the director and actress couple he had confronted way back, in the rainy Ska Villiage.
"Glory.. Go caught his breath. "Thank God I found you! I wanted to say thanks for all you've done."
"Well, it was no trouble."
"And.. I want to hire you for my next film!"
Haru blinked. "What?"
Rosa pointed at the three. "Oh come on, you saved the world. Conquering over evil, saving the innocent… it's a perfect movie opportunity."
"You want to make a movie out of us?" Musica gaped.
Go grinned. "Hell yeah! It's got blockbuster written all over it!
Haru sighed. "Good grief… anyone else want to congratulate me?"
"HARU-SAMA!" He looked to see none other than the Ketsupuri Gang, in all their butt-shaking glory, saluting him. "We pledge our eternal allegiance!"
"Thought so…" Haru faced the now massive group of well-wishers and allies before him. He had a feeling he knew what Elie would say to them, so he decided to beat her to the punch. "Alright, do all of you want to go to my huge victory party on Garage Island?
Everyone whooped and cheered at the idea.
"Okay then… but you gotta promise to behave on the way there. It's a long trip.
Solacida raised a hand. "Er, how are we getting there? Most of us don't have transport."
"We'll give you a lift in our airship."
Everyone cheered again, while Musica suddenly looked frightened. "What! You're not putting all these loons in my ship!"
"Oh come on Musica, be a sport." Elie begged. "They deserve to party too."
Musica shook his head. "Oh alright… okay you guys put your stuff…" Before he could finish, everyone was rushing toward his ship.
"Wait! Slow down, you're gonna break stuff!" Musica wailed, chasing after them. Haru and Elie laughed.
"Well, it looks like our party will certainly be lively."
"Yeah.." Haru mused. "I just wonder if we'll be able to get everything together in time, for that many people."
"Let's talk to Ruby. He can help us out."
----------
Shuda looked over his gear. His backpack filled with clothing and supplies, his sword was tied securely to his belt… yes, it seemed he was ready to go. He would head towards the train station, and from there… well, somewhere he could find a job, hopefully. Strapping the back to his back, he took his first step out of the building..
"Shuda!"
"Damn, why did this had to happen now?" He sighed as Haru ran up to him, knowing this was going to be unpleasant.
"Hey Shuda, have you seen Ruby anywhere? We need to ask him about getting stuff for the party."
He shrugged. "Can't say I have. Now excuse me, but…
"Oh hey, let me take your bag. I'll stick it with the rest…" Haru reached to take his bag, but he stepped backwards.
"It's alright Haru… I'm not taking the ship."
Haru blinked, and his face fell into a surprised look as the realization sank in. "You.. you're not coming with us?"
Shuda actually felt hurt at Haru's expression. After a while of traveling together, the boy he had watched over as a favour to his rival had become an actual friend, something he had little of. He felt guilty for betraying Haru like this, but it was time to move on. No point staying where he was no longer needed.
"No." He simply replied.
"Well… why? Was it something I did?"
Shuda smirked. "No Haru. You've been nothing but a good friend. It's just time to move on."
"But… why do you have to leave? You can move on and start a new life, but why leave?"
He growled. Haru was as stubborn as his father. And as he saw Silver Rhythm running up, he knew things were going to get worse.
"Haru, you gotta help me! Those freaks are overrunning my ship…" Musica begged. He then saw Shuda. "Huh, you packed already Shuddy?"
"He's leaving!" Haru said. Musica's eyes widened.
"What! You were gonna leave without saying goodbye? Not cool man!"
Shuda huffed. "Look, I just didn't want to make a scene, like we're doing now. So if you don't mind, I'll be on my way."
"Shuda, you can't just leave.." Haru started, but Musica put a hand on his shoulder to stop him.
"The guy wants to leave, we can't just stop him. We're not the boss of him."
Shuda nodded. "Thank you Silver Rhythm, for once. Now, good luck to you two." He started walking away.
"Hey!" Haru cried. "Where are you going!"
He stopped and turned around. "Where…?"
"Yeah. You know, so I can contact you and visit you."
Shuda stiffened, unable to answer. Here he was, no certain future ahead of him, casting off his allies for places unknown, and yet Haru wanted to remain friends with him. How could Haru be so certain of the future, when he wasn't?
"I… I don't know." He said. "I guess I'll find somewhere…"
Haru's eyes blazed. "So you've got nothing planned. No place to go. You're just leaving for the hell of it! He stepped forward, and got right into Shuda's face. "That's not fair. You can't just leave us for no reason."
"I have a reason. I'm no longer needed." Shuda spat. "I've completed the task Gale asked of me. I've protected you til the end. You're able to look after yourself from now on Haru, you don't need me watching over you."
The words were harder to say than he thought. To admit his task was over… to confirm he no had nothing more to do… it was hard to come to terms with.
Haru didn't seem to accept this. "So? That doesn't mean you have to cut us out of your life. Do you think I'm going to just forget about Musica, or Let, and all the friends that helped me?"
"No…" Shuda sighed, wishing he could somehow vanish. "Look, our lives are different. You were meant to go back to your home… I have no place to settle down."
"Then make one! You could live with me on the island!" Haru pleaded. Shuda laughed loudly.
"What, be your neighbour? I don't think so."
"Why are you so afraid? You don't have anywhere to live, you don't know what to do in the future… what have you got to lose by just settling down somewhere and staying with us?"
"Yeah, I sure as hell don't want you to leave." Musica spoke.
Shuda blinked. "Silver Rhythm… you?" All through the quest, he and Musica had spent most of the time bickering and insulting one another. He thought Silver Rhythm of all people would be glad to get rid of him.
"You're a jerk most of the time Shuddy… but you're a good guy, and I'm glad to call you my friend. Life just wouldn't be the same without you around." Musica said in his most truthful tone.
"Hard to believe you could ever miss me.." Shuda mumbled.
"And think about the other guys. They do like having you around you know. And what about Haru's sister?"
"Cattleya…" He hadn't thought about her in ages. The daughter of his rival that he had slept with once on the most memorable life of his night. The woman who, for just a short while, treated him as an equal.
"Yeah I mean, don't you want to see her again?" Musica grinned. "I mean, I sure wouldn't pass up a chance to meet a babe like her again…"
He stopped when he noticed Haru staring at him with an angry red face.
"Er… look, point is, she might want to see you again. And maybe she's the girl for you. You really want to miss that, just to fart around the country all over again?"
"Well.. it has occurred to me…" He blinked as he realized what he was saying. Was Silver Rhythm, of all people, making sense for once?
"See Shuda? You do have something to stay for. You don't have to run away." Haru smiled.
Shuda's head bowed. The idea Haru was offering to him… he was beginning to want it. But it was so new, so unknown…
"I'm a warrior. All my life was about fighting for whatever cause needed me. This life Haru… is the only one I know. What you call a normal life.. I don't know the first thing about it."
Haru stepped forward and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "Hey, we've all got to start new lives now, not just you. I know my dad wanted you to be stronger… but I think he'd be more pleased if you were to start living life for yourself.
Shuda was silent, his eyes closed. All his life he'd been fighting. Fighting to earn his way, fighting to save his allies, fighting to be the strongest…
Was there anything to gain by stopping? To abandon his life and ambitions for a life with the son and daughter of his rival… Then again, just what did he have now?
He sighed, knowing his choice. "Alright then Haru, I'll stay."
Haru gasped. "Wha… you will!"
He nodded. "Sure… but only for the party, alright? After that… I'll probably know where to go from there. And if that means I have to leave, you'll have to accept it."
A gigantic smile crossed Haru's face." Well… great! Thanks Shuda!"
Shuda was surprised when Haru suddenly grasped him in a hug.
"I mean it… thanks Shuda. I owe you a lot."
Despite the uncomfortable hold, Shuda managed to smile. "I suppose you do. Now let go will you?"
Haru unlatched from him. "Okay, I'll make sure we're all ready to go." He ran off, almost skipping like a kid. Musica grinned.
"Glad you're sticking around Shuddy. I could use a drinking partner when I get home." And with that, he moved off towards the airship.
Shuda shrugged. Once again, his highly unconventional life had taken a sudden unexpected turn. But for once… he was looking forward to what would happen.
"Besides, a small party wouldn't hurt.." He thought. He turned around and started walking to where the ship was, expecting to quickly pack his bag in the hold.
When he got there, he was not pleased to see a seething mass of people all trying to cram their bags into the hold, with Musica trying without success to hold them off.
"WOO! Party Time!" Shuda recognized Yuuma Ansect.
"PARTY TIME!" The entire crowd echoed.
Shuda slapped his forehead. "I'm on a bus to hell."
----------
It was several hours later that the ship, with it's heavy payload of party-goers, found itself over the North Sea, heading south towards Luca continent. Haru wandered around the ship's rear deck, trying to find a place where he could have some peace. Just about all the girls had gathered on the front deck for a huge girly chat, and everywhere else he went, he either ran into someone wanting to cheer him on, or Go trying to offer him money for movie rights. Not that he didn't mind a bit of praise, but all he really wanted was some quiet so he could mull over his situation.
Turning a corner of the expansive deck, he found Ruby and Griff sitting on the railing, gazing down at the passing sea."
"Hey you two." He waved as he moved over.
"Ah Haru." Griff replied. "I thought you would be lording it up with the others."
"Yeah, must be pretty cool now you're a celebrity, poyo." Ruby spoke.
"Not really." Haru shrugged. "I could do without the attention really." He took a spot next to them on the railing. "So, what are you to doing?"
"Just thinking about the future, poyo." Ruby replied.
"Heh, me too." Haru smiled. "I've been thinking about it all day, and I'm still not sure what I'm going to do with myself."
"Well I do, poyo!" Ruby declared rather proudly. "I've got it all figured out, poyo."
"Really?"
"Yep. Once the party is over, I'm gonna head back to my casino…"
Haru nodded. Lucky Ruby, at least he had a job. And his own business.
"And sell it off, poyo."
Haru and Griff blinked. "You're gonna sell your casino?"
"It's okay, poyo." I'm gonna build a new one in Hip Hop city. It'll be easier to run, and you guys can visit."
"Yeah but still…" Haru could remember when Ruby learned that Doryu had been fleecing his casino for evil ends. Ruby had been furious that his family's money was being used for evil, and had vowed to help Haru if it meant he could stop Doryu. "I mean, I thought you loved that huge floating place. Why get rid of it?"
Ruby had a small smile on his flat face. "Well, ever since I joined you on the quest, I've come to realize just how selfish I've been with my money, poyo. Sure, I never gave it to bad people, but I never gave it to good people either. I just used it to buy all the cool treasures I wanted and kept it all to myself, poyo. But when you came along, I began to realize what's really valuable… like doing the right thing, and having people who care about you…"
The penguin now had a determined gleam in his eye. "So I'm gonna sell the casino, and use the cash to help as many people as possible, poyo! There must be loads of people who've suffered because of Demon Card, and I want to make them happy again, poyo."
Haru looked at the pink creature with newfound respect. He could recall when Ruby had acted like a spoilt, annoying kid. He had certainly grown up in the last year.
"That's awesome Ruby. You could do a lot of good." He spoke.
"You think so, poyo?"
"I know so." Haru grinned. "I think if your dad was still around, he'd be proud of you."
Ruby smiled. "Yeah… I'll do it for him as well, poyo."
Griff stared at the penguin. "Mr Ruby… that's incredible. To dedicate yourself to something so noble…"
"Ahh, it's nothing. "So what are you going to do Griff?"
The blue blob seemed to quiver more than usual. "Oh I guess I'll be going along somewhere… new challenges await me and suchforth… new avenues to explore…
His lower lip shook and then he burst into tears. "Oh who am I kidding! I have nowhere to go! There's no point in making maps, cause there's no one who needs to go anywhere!"
"Whoa, easy Griff.." Haru tried to comfort Griff by putting a hand on his back, but it didn't seem to help.
"It's over! Waaahhh!" Griff wailed. "My life is worthless without someone to serve.."
"No it's not, poyo!" Griff looked at Ruby. "You're good at lots of things, poyo?"
"Like what?"
"Um… I dunno? Make a list, poyo."
Griff tried to gather himself. "Well, I'm good at drawing maps.. sniff… I know lots of maths… I can work a camera… ahhhh, I'll never see Miss Elie naked again!"
"There you go, you're not worthless." Ruby consoled. Griff kept crying.
"Not helping Ruby." Haru moaned.
"Okay then… how would you like to work for me, poyo?"
Griff blinked. "Work for you?"
"Sure. I'm gonna be working on a lot pf projects to help people, I figure I'm gonna need someone to help me out. Sort my accounts and schedule meetings and things like that, poyo. I really need someone organized to help me, someone like you Griff." Ruby spoke
Griff wiped his eyes. "You mean it?"
"Yeah, and you can bring Tanchimo too. I'm sure I can find a place for him, poyo."
Griff leapt over and hugged the penguin. "Thank you! I promise I won't let you down!"
Haru smiled. At least two of his friends were ready for the future…
"Oh Haru, would you like a job too, poyo?" Ruby suddenly asked. "You know, I can put you up for a while if you're strapped for cash…"
Haru waved away the request. "Thanks but no thanks Ruby. I wanna try and strike it out on my own, if you get my drift."
"Okay. Shame though. I think Elie would be glad if you worked in a casino, poyo."
"Heh yeah, she'd probably badger me for discounts…" He smirked.
Griff looked at him. "Have you told Elie-san about… you know.."
"Not yet… but I've asked her to live with me, so I guess that's a start. I just want to wait until things are settled down."
Settled down… the way he was going, he'd be in his thirties before he felt able to tell her. If he could just figure out what he should do, how to make a life for her and him…
He was on a ship with guys who had plenty more life experience than him. Perhaps they could help.
"You think the others might have some ideas?" He asked.
Ruby shrugged. "Worth a try, poyo."
"Yeah, I'll go ask… thanks for the talk Ruby."
"Sure thing…" OOH!" Ruby jumped. "How about I buy the Ten Commandments from you? I'll pay good cash for it, poyo!"
Haru glared at him. Ruby shrugged. "What? I can't change overnight, poyo."
----------
Heading downstairs, into the lower levels of the ship, Haru found the lounge room, the place where Musica's crew usually convened to watch TV, play games and generally hang out. None of the crew were in at the moment though, just Solacido and Giraffe trying to talk to Go.
"So let me get this straight." Solacido spoke. "If we agree to star this… TV series of yours, will we be playing ourselves?"
"Sure, though if you want to do any other roles, I think I can fit you in."
"Can I play Lucia?" Giraffe asked. "I've seen pictures of him, I think I can carry off a blonde wig."
Go rubbed his chin. "I dunno, I don't really see you as the main villain type."
"Oh come on! Put me as Doryu then! I don't want to be a lackey again!" Giraffe begged.
Haru huffed. "Are you still going on about a movie about me?"
Go's face lifted into a cheesy smile as he saw Haru. "Ah, the star himself! And it's not a movie. A story this huge could never fit the big screen. Now 24, hour-long installments, that's the way to go."
Haru grit his teeth. "Look, I don't want to star in a TV show…"
"Fine, I can get some other actors." Go glanced at Giraffe. "But at least do a cameo."
"And I don't want my story turned into some stupid soap opera." He ground. Couldn't Go see how important this was to him? Then again, Go hadn't noticed the angry residents of Ska Villiage for five years…
"Relax, it won't be some cheesy series. I'm sticking as close to the source material as possible." Go grinned. "I've already gotten some stories from other people you've met, all I need is the official version from you." He pulled out a checkbook from his pocket. "Come on, I'll pay good money for a screenplay."
Haru glared at him. The money would probably be useful, but he wasn't about to have everything the quest stood for tarnished.
"Don't you get it you moron! This wasn't some stupid show you see on TV! This was real! We almost got killed! People sacrificed themselves to help us! My father died! I don't want you turning all they did into some cheap entertainment!"
He expected Go to insist again, but instead, the huge man's eyes fell. "Your dad died?"
Haru nodded. "Yeah, he did, trying to help me."
Go's lower lip trembled. "I… I understand.. My old man died when he was flattened by a stage prop on a movie he was working on."
Haru's glared softened. "Oh man, I'm sorry…
"Don't be!" Go was in tears. "It's how he would have wanted to go…" He retreated into a corner, sobbing quietly.
Giraffe snickered. "Making a grown man cry. Heh, you're more powerful than I thought Rave Master."
Haru stared at the quaffed man, who had once battled him. "And you're smarter than I thought. I figured you and your pals in the Blue Guardians would have joined Lucia after I beat Hardner."
"Please, work for that lunatic? Hardner may have been obsessed, but at least he treated us with the respect we earned."
"Yeah, but now he's gone, what are you going to do?"
Giraffe smiled. "Well, this acting gig our tall friend is offering seems a fun way to earn a living. Either way, I'd like to try something which doesn't involve breaking the law. Me and Leopard just want some peace."
Haru nodded. It was heartening to see even his enemies could look to a brighter side.
"I hear you." Solacido spoke up. "Me, Remi and Fau spent months fighting off Demon Card troops trying to invade Aqua Palace. After all that, a nice easy job sounds like heaven."
"Like what?" Haru asked.
"Yeah, I'm thinking of joining the Imperial Guard stationed there." The green haired psychic shrugged. "I guess years of fighting the demons in Rabarrier have rubbed off on me. I still want to protect my home. I may as well get paid for it."
"Sounds good. And Remi?"
"She's thinking about going to college and studying fashion. And Fau's heading back to Rabarrier. He's been talking about opening his own bakery." He chuckled. "I've tasted his biscuits, so I don't think he'll have any trouble keeping it open."
Haru laughed half-heartedly. "Yeah, he makes great cookies for an old geezer."
"You don't sound so happy Haru."
He shrugged. "I wish I could be happier, but the thing is, I don't really know what I'm going to be doing after all this."
"Huh, can't be that hard." Giraffe scoffed. "You're the Rave Master. You're infamous. Just snap your fingers and everything can be yours."
"Yeah well, I don't want to be the Rave Master anymore." Haru replied.
Giraffe stared at him. "Excuse me? You're the greatest hero in the world. You beat my colleagues, Hardner, The Demon Gods.. everyone looks up to you. You want to throw that away?"
"I never wanted to be a hero. I didn't want to be famous or admired. I just wanted to save the world. But I've missed out on so much… I'm not sure I can just have a simple life anymore."
Solacido moved up and held his shoulder in a friendly gesture. "You'll do fine Haru.."
"Everyone says that, but I don't know if I will be. I don't have any skills like you guys have. All I know is fighting." Haru sighed.
"You can learn." Solacido smiled. "We're all gonna have to learn how to live normally now. I guess the best advice I can give is… find what you really want to do in your life."
He pointed at Giraffe. "I want to keep fighting injustice, he wants to be a good guy, and him…" He nodded at a sniffing Go. "…he's got his movies. You have to find what you want, what makes you happy."
Haru managed to smile. "All I really want… is to be with Elie."
----------
Musica wandered onto the front deck, engrossed in the notepad he was holding. He'd scribbled some ideas for jobs for his crew, but so far, he couldn't think of anything concrete. As he looked up to rub his eyes, he realized he was not alone.
Several females were sitting in a circle on the deck, chatting to each other. He spotted Elie, Belnika and Julia, as well as Seria, Rosa, Nagisa, Remi, those chicks from Reina's troops, that weird catgirl from the Blue Guardians..
"Whoa, a ship filled with hot girls." He yelled, attracting the attention off all the girls. "This has been a dream of mine since I was fifteen."
Julia rolled her eyes. "Musica, we're having a nice, girly chat here, so if you don't mind, kindly piss off."
"Okay, okay… guy can't have a bit of fun.." Musica walked off.
Rosa shook her head. "Men, always so nosy."
When he was gone, Remi chuckled. "Aww, that was mean Julia. I wanted to ogle him a bit longer."
"I thought you had a boyfriend back in Aqua Palace." Elie inquired.
"True, but I'm allowed to let my eye wander, right?" Remi smirked.
Elie laughed. It was nice to be able to chat to her female friends, old and new. After all the seriousness of the past few days, it felt good to just hang out and speak her mind.
"I don't know, Musica's hot and all, but do you think you could stand living with him for a week?" Nagisa asked.
"Good point. He was a real pain while he was healing with us after King was defeated." Remi replied
"If Leopard was not with Giraffe, Leopard would be on him like a shot." Leopard giggled.
"Hey Seria." Elie asked the mermaid. "Would you date Musica?"
"Um.. no." The mermaid blushed. "I'd much rather date.."
"Don't say Haru, don't say Haru…" Elie mentally begged.
"Mr Solacido." Seria smiled.
"Everyone blinked in surprise. "That guy with the floppy green hair?" Rosa asked.
"Well, yes. He's very handsome, and from watching him lead people in the battle, I thought he was very bold and courageous. He's my ideal man."
"My ideal man only needs plenty of cash and a nice bod to get me going." Rosa cackled.
"So Belnika…" Julia spoke. "Who would you go out with?"
Belnika blushed crimson. "Well, I don't really know.."
"You must have someone in mind." Julia pressed. "You're telling me there is no man in our little gang you fancy?"
"Um… that is… I do sort of like…" The girls all edged closer to hear.
"Go on." Julia urged.
"I.. like.. Mr Iulius." Belnika finally breathed.
The girls just blinked. "Iulius? As in, the camp, vain guy in the weird suits Iulius?" Julia gasped.
"Well, yes.." Belnika cringed. "I mean, I know he acts a bit.. odd, but I think he's rather charming."
"Charming! The guy's a complete fruit loop." Nagisa argued. "Remember when he entered the Ribeyla dancing contest? I spent two minutes listening to him rant about how he was going to win, and I was determined to blow his head off."
"Well, he can be full of himself at times…
"Yeah, and he's so self-centered." Elie joined in. "I remember all the fuss he made about his face when I punched him at the contest."
"He's not as bad as all that!" Belnika got to her feet and stomped off.
"Where are you going?" Rosa spoke.
"I'm not staying here while you insult a friend." She called as she walked off.
The girls were a bit stunned. "Wow. I've never seen anyone get so worked up about Iulius." Nagisa spoke. "Well, apart from when I was trying to kill him."
"You don't think she… nahh!" Elie shrugged. Iulius and Belnika. It sounded utterly crazy.
"So, who would you date… no, scratch that." Julia smirked at Elie. "We all know the answer to that one."
"What do you mean?" Elie frowned.
"Come on, we all know you like Haru."
Elie jumped. "What! He.. he's just a friend…"
"Hardly." Seria laughed. "When we were fighting Doryu, even I had to admit there was something between you."
Rosa blinked. "You mean to tell me you still haven't told him. It was almost two years since I last saw you. In all that time, you've never hooked up with him?"
Elie shuddered. "Well.. it's not like I could just tell him. He was busy trying to save the world."
"So were Musica and Let, and you didn't see Let not try and look after me, or Musica not get a girl or two." Julia rolled her eyes. "Honestly Elie, why haven't you told him you love him?"
"Yeah, now that Demon Card is gone, it's not like there's anything stopping you." Nagisa added. "You do like Haru, right?"
Elie felt herself tremble. They were right, so terribly right. There was nothing to stop her telling him… so why hadn't she?
"Well… yes."
"So, you should make a move already." Rosa grinned.
Elie tried to sound upbeat, but her words came out in a stutter. "Actually… he offered to let me live with him at his home."
Damn, what was wrong with her? Why was the thought of telling Haru she loved him terrifying her? She'd wanted to for ages. She wished she had before they all left to fight Lucia. So why was she avoiding it? She could hear the other girls chatter excitedly about this new revelation about her living with Haru.
"…Ooh, living with Haru, lucky girl.."
"Yeah, imagine having him in the next room.."
"It's not like that!" Elie shouted. "Haru is just offering me a place to live, since unlike you guys, I don't have a home."
Everyone was humbled by that. "Sorry Elie. We forgot about that." Julia spoke.
Elie sighed. "Look, I do like Haru… a lot. But right now.. I don't think it's the time to tell him."
She got to her feet. "Look, I have to help plan the party… I'll see you later." She swiftly jogged off down the deck.
Seria watched her run with concern. "I think we upset her. Obviously, her feelings for Haru are pretty private."
"Ugh, what is with them?" Nagisa groaned. "It's so obvious they're meant for each other. Why can't they just tell each other?
Julia rubbed her hands together. "I don't know…but I think it's about time we got those two together."
"We?" Nagisa raised an eyebrow.
"Sure, I'll need help…" Julia grinned mischievously. "Playing Cupid is such a hard thing to do alone.."
To Be Continued..