The Prelude to the Symphony

(An hour earlier)

Akasan explained to Queen Athena the full extent of his plan to invade the Seventh Order.

Narumi and Mayumi were also in attendance, waiting by the doors. Rieko sat on Athena's lap.

Akasan took a bow and turned to the door.

Narumi gave him a hug. "It seems like only yesterday that you were just a little kid who didn't know anything about the world."

"Yeah? Feels a lot longer for me."

She chuckled. "I bet. I probably say this a lot but be safe out there okay?"

Akasan nodded. He looked at Mayumi.

Mayumi was looking away from him, clearly trying to ignore him. She played with her hair carelessly.

Akasan smiled to himself. "You've been avoiding me ever since I came back. Something wrong?"

Mayumi blushed. She turned away. "You don't... like me, do you...?"

"Of course I like you. We're friends aren't we?"

"You know what I mean! Don't make me spell it out for you!"

Narumi stepped away. "I'll leave you two to it."