Three years had passed since that fateful festival, and now Honoka and Maki stood on the cusp of a new adventure: college life. The vibrant city buzzed around them, full of promise and excitement as they navigated their way through the bustling campus of their chosen university.

The sun shone brightly, casting a warm glow over the quad where students gathered, chatting and laughing. Honoka clutched her guitar case, a familiar weight that felt comforting in her hands. "Can you believe we're finally here?" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling.

Maki smiled, her own bag slung over her shoulder. "It feels surreal. But I'm ready for whatever comes next."

As they made their way to their first class, memories of their journey flooded back. From their early days of performing together as Hikari to navigating the ups and downs of their relationship, they had grown not just as musicians but as individuals. Their bond had deepened, rooted in love and mutual respect.

Their first class was a music theory course, and as they entered the lecture hall, they spotted familiar faces—Rin, Nozomi, and Eli had also chosen the same university. The reunion felt like a warm embrace, laughter and excitement filling the air.

"Can you believe we all ended up here together?" Rin said, her eyes wide with enthusiasm.

"It's perfect! We can have our own little Muse reunion," Nozomi added, a twinkle of mischief in her eyes.

As the lecture began, Honoka and Maki shared glances, silently reassuring each other. They had both decided to pursue music, and while the path ahead was uncertain, they were determined to face it together.

After class, they wandered the campus, exploring new corners and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Honoka felt a rush of inspiration with every new sight—the art buildings, the performance halls, and the cozy cafes that called out to be discovered.

"Maki, what do you think about starting a new project?" Honoka suggested, her excitement bubbling over. "Something to showcase our growth as musicians?"

Maki's eyes lit up. "I love that idea! We could create a set that reflects our college experiences and the new music we've been writing."

"Yes! And we could even invite some of our old friends to join us!" Honoka added, her mind racing with possibilities.

As they discussed their plans, a familiar figure approached them from the crowd—Katori, a fellow musician they had met during their high school days. "Hey, you two! Are you planning to perform again?"

Honoka grinned. "We were just talking about it! We want to create something special for college."

"Count me in!" Katori exclaimed. "I've been itching to get back on stage."

With renewed excitement, they began assembling a small group of musicians, bringing together familiar faces and new talent. Practices became a regular occurrence, filled with laughter, creativity, and the occasional argument over arrangements.

One evening, as they wrapped up a rehearsal, Honoka plopped down on a nearby couch, exhaustion tugging at her eyelids. "That was intense! But I loved every minute of it."

Maki joined her, leaning back and sighing contentedly. "I feel like we're really onto something. It's different from high school, but it's exhilarating."

"You know," Katori said, "this is the perfect time to explore new sounds. College is all about experimenting, right?"

Honoka nodded. "Let's challenge ourselves. I want our music to reflect everything we've learned, both personally and musically."

As the weeks flew by, their sound evolved. They blended genres, incorporated different instruments, and infused their music with the lessons and experiences of college life. Their performances began to gain traction on campus, drawing larger audiences and even the attention of student organizations.

One evening, after a particularly successful show, they celebrated at a local café, the atmosphere buzzing with excitement. Honoka felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude as she looked around at her friends, the support system they had built.

"Here's to Hikari!" Maki raised her glass, her eyes sparkling. "And to all the new memories we'll create together!"

"To Hikari!" everyone echoed, their voices blending into a chorus of support and friendship.

As the night wound down, Honoka found herself alone with Maki on the balcony of the café, the city lights twinkling below them. "Can you believe how far we've come?" Honoka mused, leaning against the railing.

Maki smiled, her expression softening. "It feels like just yesterday we were singing our first song together."

"And now look at us," Honoka replied, a mixture of pride and nostalgia in her voice. "We're doing what we love, surrounded by friends who believe in us."

Maki turned to face her, a hint of seriousness in her eyes. "And through it all, I'm grateful for you. You've been my anchor in this journey."

Honoka felt a flutter in her chest at Maki's words. "You've been mine too. I wouldn't want to do this with anyone else."

In that moment, the air between them crackled with unspoken emotions, and Honoka felt the familiar pull toward Maki. "I love you," she whispered, her heart racing.

"I love you too," Maki replied, her voice soft yet steady.

They leaned closer, sharing a tender kiss under the stars, the world around them fading into nothingness. In that moment, they knew they were exactly where they were meant to be—together, pursuing their dreams and creating a future filled with love and music.

As they pulled away, Honoka smiled, feeling a sense of peace wash over her. "Here's to new beginnings."

"Here's to us," Maki replied, her eyes shining.

Hand in hand, they turned back to the bustling café, ready to embrace the challenges and joys that lay ahead, together as Hikari.

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