Episode 29: A Close Bond and a Hilarious Reunion
Scene 1: Tanji's Reflection and Ryu's Awakening
Tanji stands by the window in his chamber, gazing out at the serene night sky. His thoughts are clouded with memories of the forest, the red crystal, and Ryu's unconscious form in his arms.
Tanji: (thinking) "Why am I getting so involved? She's just another pawn in this game. But still... I can't deny it. I've grown too close to her."
Breaking away from his thoughts, he decides to make something simple for Ryu. A pot of soup simmers on the stove as he stirs it absentmindedly. Suddenly, a loud scream pierces the quiet.
Ryu: "Why am I in your chamber?!"
Tanji quickly uses his magic to silence her, while Zai covers his ears dramatically.
Zai: "Master, she's too noisy! My poor ears, they're bleeding!"
As Tanji releases the spell, Zai takes the opportunity to shove a spoonful of soup into Tanji's mouth.
Zai: "Just drink it, Master. No arguments."
Tanji glares but obeys, sipping the soup with reluctant approval. He then turns to Ryu, who is nervously looking around the room.
Ryu: "What happened? Why am I here?"
Tanji explains the events of the previous night, from the crystal's outburst to her unconscious state. Ryu listens intently, her face slowly turning red with guilt.
Ryu: "I... I'm sorry. I didn't mean to cause so much trouble."
Tanji waves off her apology, his voice as calm as ever.
Tanji: "Just don't be reckless again. I won't always be there to save you."
Feeling awkward, Ryu quickly stands up.
Ryu: "I think I should go now..."
---
Scene 2: Kai's Arrival and the Funny Reunion
As Ryu steps out of Tanji's chamber, she hears a familiar voice calling her name.
Kai: "Ryu! Ryu! Where are you? I've been looking everywhere for you!"
Kai runs up to her but suddenly halts, staring at her wide-eyed.
Kai: "Who's this ghost?!"
Ryu: (snarling) "It's me, Kai! What's wrong with you?"
Kai dramatically clutches his chest.
Kai: "Oh, my dear friend, you scared me! Where have you been? I've felt so lonely without you!"
Ryu rolls her eyes but smiles at his antics.
Ryu: "I've been... somewhere. But wait, Kai, why do you look like you've seen a ghost?"
Kai: "Well, you see, some academy students threw a party, and I might have been spooked by a fake ghost prank. But I was only there because I was trying to find you!"
Ryu laughs, shaking her head.
Ryu: "You're hopeless."
Kai: "Hopelessly devoted to my best friend!"
He drags Ryu toward the lake, insisting they need some peace and quiet. They sit by the water, the moonlight reflecting on its surface.
Ryu: "You're such a mess, Kai. But I missed you too."
They exchange jokes, laughing until their sides hurt, finally
feeling a moment of lightheartedness amid the chaos of their world.