Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Greetings, dear readers! It's KaleidoMirror here once again.

This new chapter has posed a considerable challenge; it's the seventh revision, and I can confidently say that the result surpasses my expectations. Personally, this work superficially encapsulates everything I have wished to convey before. If you've been anticipating an update to the previous chapters, there is a possibility that it might happen, depending on how things unfold in the future. For me, on this 30th of December, my birthday, I decided to invest the early hours of the morning dedicating myself entirely to the writing of this project. I must confess that every moment was worthwhile, and although I'm not sure how it will be perceived, I only have one story pending for Alex-Keller's writing contest, so look forward to that.

I trust you will enjoy this proposal, which I wrote with sincerity and a deep appreciation for the works and franchises of Kaguya-sama: Love is War and Fate/Stay Night.

Now, let me immerse you in the world I've woven with carefully selected words, blending the essence of two universes I hold in such high regard—well, three, you'll understand in the end. Without further ado, I invite you to delve into the prologue of 'Echo of the Seasons.'

Are you ready? Let the adventure begin!"

The wind brushed gently over the snow-covered garden, and the twilight bathed everything in warm hues.

A silver-haired woman stood still, adjusting her scarf while gazing absently at the horizon.

"I didn't think you enjoyed the cold enough to come out here. Do you have a fascination with snow?" Shirou's voice broke through her thoughts. He approached from the nearby trees, hands in his pockets, his silver hair tousled by the wind.

Chika smiled mischievously but avoided his gaze.

"It's just... the sunset looks prettier with snow, don't you think? It feels magical."

Shirou sighed, crossing his arms.

"Magical? What worries me is you catching a cold. What kind of irresponsible mother would risk herself like this in this weather?"

He stepped closer, his eyes gleaming with amusement as he adopted a deliberately stern tone.

"How cruel!" she pouted. "To think Mei will have to endure such an insensitive father," she said, playfully tapping his chest, feigning indignation.

Shirou couldn't hold back a soft laugh. He shrugged off his coat and draped it over his wife's shoulders, catching her by surprise. With a tender gesture, he brushed the snowflakes from her hair.

"I can never stay mad at you... even if you are a hopeless case."

She nestled into his embrace, resting her head on his shoulder with a smile.

"Then, as a reward, I think Mei and I deserve some hot tea... and maybe a few strawberry desserts."

Shirou smiled as he guided her toward the house. "Whatever my Queen of Hearts desires. After all, we'll soon have our little princess to spoil, too."

The icy air was left behind as they walked toward the warmth of their home, their laughter blending with the crunch of snow underfoot.

The spring breeze drifted through the open window, carrying a fresh, invigorating scent that filled the room. The soft murmur of the wind seemed to cradle little Mei, who was fast asleep on her mother's chest.

Chika looked down at her daughter, her one-year-old princess who had become the absolute center of their lives. She gently brushed through Mei's silver locks, which gleamed like strands of moonlight in the sunlight. It was impossible not to smile as she watched her.

"She's as perfect as a fairy tale princess," Chika murmured with affection.

Though she adored her daughter, Chika knew full well that Mei had Shirou wrapped around her tiny finger from day one. It wasn't uncommon to find her stoic husband babbling nonsense or pulling silly faces just to make Mei laugh.

The memory drew a soft, nearly inaudible chuckle from her. Shirou, the man who had once been all determination and seriousness, was now a devoted father.

Through the window, she could see him in the garden, crouched over a rose bush that seemed to demand his full attention. There was something almost poetic in the way he cared for the flowers, as if each petal carried the same weight as the moments they shared as a family.

"Where's the Casanova from Shuchiin now?" she mused with a smile. "Doesn't it seem unfair, Mei, that your father still worries your mother as much as he did back in those days?"

Mei stirred slightly, letting out a sleepy murmur, prompting Chika to adjust her position gently.

"Don't worry, my little one. Your papa is just outside, tending to the roses... probably also plotting how to spoil you even more when he comes back."

Her thoughts wandered to the simple yet cherished days they'd shared recently—little moments that made life feel complete. Mei was beginning to show her personality: curious, energetic, yet with a tenderness that could melt the hardest of hearts.

From the garden, Shirou glanced up and saw her through the window. Even at a distance, she could see the faint smile that curved his lips. She raised her hand in a small wave, which he returned with a nod before turning back to his work.

"Sometimes, it feels like I'm dreaming," she said softly.

The sun's rays gently warmed the room, filling it with a golden light that made everything feel almost unreal in its perfection. Slowly, Chika let her eyes close, surrendering to sleep as Mei continued to rest peacefully.

In the garden, Shirou watched as the scene inside the window grew quieter, and he let out a contented sigh.

"I never thought peace could look like this."

Though he knew they'd later need to visit the Fujiwaras for Lunar New Year preparations, for now, this small moment of tranquility was enough to make the world feel perfect.

The soft whisper of the wind accompanied the serene atmosphere of the master bedroom. Shirou opened the door carefully, letting the twilight light pour into the scene before him.

Chika rested on the large bed, with Mei curled up on her chest. The little one had her tiny finger in her mouth, dreaming peacefully while her mother held her in a protective embrace. Shirou couldn't help but smile at the sight of them.

"There they are, my two princesses... always stealing my heart," he murmured softly but tenderly.

After finishing his work in the garden and taking a quick shower, Shirou felt refreshed, though he still had tasks waiting for him. He approached the bed quietly and leaned in to observe Mei more closely.

"What could you be dreaming about, little one?" he whispered, brushing a lock of hair from his daughter's face. "Flowers, perhaps? Or maybe how to keep winning your papa over..."

Mei stirred slightly, her tiny arms moving in a gesture almost synchronized with Shirou's voice. He chuckled softly, charmed by her reaction.

"Yes, you definitely know how to grab attention, don't you?"

With precise movements, Shirou retrieved a light blanket from a nearby drawer. Returning to the bed, he gently draped it over Chika and Mei. Both instinctively snuggled closer under its soft weight.

"Now you're perfect."

He sat at the edge of the bed, letting his gaze linger on Chika's face. His wife, always so full of energy and enthusiasm, had been exhausted lately. The constant meetings with her father, the imposing patriarch Fujiwara, and endless business plans tied to the upcoming presidential elections had taken their toll.

Shirou sighed. While he dealt with his own work stresses, he knew now wasn't the time to falter. Mei and Chika relied on him, and these small moments of peace reminded him why all his effort was worthwhile.

"I promise I'll always be here for you."

Deciding not to wake them, he stood and grabbed his laptop from a nearby table. He settled into a chair by the window, keeping an eye on them while he finished some reports.

Every so often, he glanced up to ensure everything remained peaceful. The warm sunset light bathed the room, wrapping Chika and Mei in an almost heavenly glow.

"It's not easy, but..." He paused his typing for a moment. "Moments like this make it all worth it."

With that, he returned to his work, knowing that, at the end of the day, nothing mattered more than protecting his family's happiness.

Summer was a magical season at the Emiya-Fujiwara mansion. The vast, meticulously tended garden was in full bloom, filled with vibrant colors and sweet aromas that seemed to dance with the warm breeze. For Mei, this green paradise was her favorite corner. At just four years old, the world still had an air of constant discovery, and every afternoon spent in the garden felt like a new adventure.

Her curious twin pigtails, adorned with monochromatic ribbons, swayed gently as she walked along the flower-lined paths. Although the garden was a place to play, what Mei loved most was the time spent with her mother in the afternoons, sitting in front of the grand piano in the main hall.

Unfortunately, this time, she could only enjoy it through the large windows of her room.

For now, she sat in front of her mother, who was always patient and loving, introducing her to the world of music—not just as a skill, but as a way to express emotions. The little girl had shown a natural talent, inheriting both the technical precision and the passion of her mother.

Perhaps that was why, despite the soft notes of "Last Stardust" filling the room, Mei found herself admiring the delicate chords, a piece her mother had composed during her time at the prestigious Shuchi'in Academy. As expected, it was a bit difficult for her to keep up, her small hands faltering on some of the notes.

"Mom…" she gazed at the keyboard with concentration, "Do you think Mei will play well next time?"

Her voice was a soft whisper, filled with a mixture of weariness and determination.

Chika paused, noticing the tired yet determined expression on her daughter's face, allowing the last notes to fade into the air before offering a reassuring smile.

"You're doing very well, Mei-chan. Don't put too much pressure on yourself; remember, music is a sweet and gentle journey, not a race."

Mei furrowed her brow slightly, still unsatisfied.

"But... Mei wants to surprise Daddy..."

Her daughter's words drew a soft laugh from Chika. She knew that Shirou was the undisputed hero in Mei's life, and every achievement seemed to revolve around impressing him.

"He's already so proud of you, my princess," she gently patted her daughter's hair, "But I understand, you want it to be special."

Mei nodded slowly, though insecurity still lingered on her face.

"I don't want Daddy to think I'm clumsy..."

"My love, he would never think that. You're his princess, and every time you play, his face lights up. But..." she paused dramatically, capturing Mei's attention, "...to make everything perfect, we first need to learn to keep the rhythm. Sometimes you get a little nervous in the middle of the piece."

Mei nodded again, a renewed spark of determination in her eyes.

At that moment, two maids entered the room, bringing a tray with glasses of fresh lemonade and delicate strawberry pastries.

"Thank you, Aída."

Mei tried to imitate her mother with a solemn gesture. "Thank you, Miss Aída."

The young maid bowed lightly, responding warmly.

"It's my pleasure, Lady Chika. And it's always a delight to hear young Mei-sama play. Her music makes our work much more enjoyable."

Mei lowered her gaze, slightly embarrassed by the praise, her small hands fiddling with the fabric of her dress. Chika noticed and couldn't help but smile. It was curious how her daughter shared this trait with Shirou: both were shy when it came to sincere compliments.

After a brief farewell, Aída and the other maid left, allowing mother and daughter to enjoy a more intimate moment.

"How about we take a break and then practice again?" Chika offered, handing her a little more lemonade with a smile, "I'm sure next time it will sound even better."

Mei hurriedly took a sip of her drink before nodding enthusiastically.

"Yes, Mommy! Mei wants to do it perfectly for Daddy."

Chika leaned back on the piano bench, savoring the sweet moment.

"Your name is so perfect, my little flower," she murmured to herself, feeling the warmth of the summer.

In the spacious room, the sound of Mei's laughter and the piano notes created a harmony that seemed to envelop them in a magical world, where the ethereal silhouette of a purple lady swirled between each change in the melody.

The afternoon sun filtered through the windows, casting a warm and peaceful glow over the music room. Mei, with her legs swinging from the chair, savored her favorite dessert: a strawberry cream tart. However, her eyes never left the sheet music on the piano, studying it with an unusually serious concentration for her young age.

Chika watched her daughter from the piano bench, a soft smile curling on her lips. Mei had that same intense, thoughtful expression Shirou often wore when he was immersed in something important.

"I can see why you're Daddy's little girl."

Mei blinked, confused, looking up just as a bit of cream from her dessert stuck to her left cheek.

"Huh?" she frowned. "Why do you say that, Mom?"

Chika laughed softly, taking a napkin to clean her daughter's cheek.

"It's because that look on your face is exactly the same as your father's when he's concentrating. Did you know he made the same face when he first tried cooking?"

"Hey!" Mei puffed out her cheeks. "It's not fair that you're teasing Mei like that!"

The childish reproach made Chika laugh even more. It was in these small moments, during breaks between practices, that mother and daughter connected in a special way, chatting about the past, mischief, and most of all, the stories surrounding the ever-mysterious Shirou Emiya.

"So…," Chika rested her chin in her palm, "Where did we leave off last time, my little sunshine?"

The mischievous expression on Chika's face didn't go unnoticed by Mei, who responded with a glimmer of excitement in her eyes.

"Last time, you were visiting the gardening club as the student council secretary!"

Chika raised an eyebrow, surprised by her daughter's memory.

"Oh, does little Mei-chan want to hear that old story about when I met your dad?"

Mei nodded eagerly, knowing she had her mother's attention.

"Let me guess…" her mother chuckled, "You want to hear about when I asked him to bake a big cake for the student council? Or maybe when I invited him to spy on Aunt Kaguya's first date with Uncle Miyuki?"

Mei tilted her head, considering the options for a moment, but her face lit up when a better idea came to mind.

"No, I want to hear about when you went to the gardening club just to invite Daddy to join the student council!"

Chika pretended to think, tapping her finger to her chin.

"Are you sure you don't want to hear about how your dad won several sports competitions by unanimous vote, or the time he made your sweet, innocent mother angry for the first time?"

Mei looked at her with a seriousness unexpected for her age, crossing her arms in a way that reminded Chika too much of Shirou when he was determined.

"No, I want to hear how you convinced him! How was it, Mommy?"

Mei's insistence made Chika let out a small nostalgic laugh. Her memories started to flow, taking her back to those youthful days at the prestigious Shuchi'in Academy.

Chika sighed with a melancholic smile.

"Your father wasn't officially part of the gardening club, but you'd always find him there during lunch, taking care of the flowers like they were something sacred."

Mei's eyes widened, imagining her father surrounded by flowers, an image that felt so familiar, given he loved giving roses to her and Mom.

"Although he always had a calm expression, sometimes I'd notice his gaze was empty. Especially when he was invited to join sports or clubs like Kyūdō and Kendō. He was incredibly talented, but he never accepted the invitations from the captains. His usual excuse was that he wasn't interested… or that he had too much to do at home."

Mei whispered, almost to herself.

"Daddy must have been very busy…"

Chika nodded, looking at her daughter with affection.

"He was busy, but not in the way everyone thought. For example, your dad always found time to take care of the flowers because it was his way of finding peace. And though he never admitted it, I think he also enjoyed my visits to the club, even if at first, he didn't want to join the council."

"Wasn't Daddy with you in the student council?"

"I think I need to clarify something important, Mei-chan," Chika gave a slight smile as she set her cup down, "Your father was never an official member."

Mei blinked, leaning forward with curiosity.

Chika took a small sip of her tea before continuing.

"Though I insisted a lot that he join, everyone in the council knew they could rely on him for anything. In the end, he was known as an unofficial member... much to the president's delight."

Mei frowned dramatically.

"But Uncle Yuu always tells me that Daddy was very bad with him and that his love advice didn't work!"

Mei's indignant tone made Chika laugh, setting her cup aside and taking a bite of strawberry with her fork.

"That's not entirely true, my little one. Your dad always took care of Yuu in his own way, even if their ideas didn't always match. Like the best friends they were... they had their differences, but in the end, they respected each other."

The Emiya living room, bathed in the soft light of the evening sun, felt like a haven of tranquility. Chika sat on a plush sofa, a cup of tea in her hands, as she watched Mei playfully move across the room.

It was moments like this when she felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the life she had. Her family was her greatest treasure, and although her husband had come into her life surrounded by mystery, she knew it had been worth crossing the barriers that had once separated them.

Before their relationship had blossomed, Shirou had been an enigma. A man whose calm and politeness seemed to conceal something deeper—something only someone patient and persistent could uncover. Chika, with her boundless energy and curiosity, had decided to get to know him on her own, without relying on others' biased versions.

"It's funny..." she sighed with a smile, looking at her tea, "At first, I never thought I'd learn so much about him in the way that I did."

Mei looked up from her toys, noticing the introspective tone in her mother's voice.

"About dad? What did you learn, mom?"

Chika paused for a moment, considering her words. Talking about Shirou's past wasn't something she often did, especially with Mei. But at the same time, she felt that some truths could be shared lightly.

"Your dad is more interesting than he seems, Mei-chan," Chika propped her chin on her hand. "After all, he comes from a very old and distinguished family, much like ours. But... his history wasn't always easy."

Mei scooted closer, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

"How old? Like the samurai stories you tell me?"

Chika chuckled softly at her daughter's imagination.

"Something like that, my little one. His grandfather, Yamamoto Takeshi, was a very important figure. A man who built an empire but also made mistakes. He lost many important things by distancing himself from his roots."

The mention of Takeshi caused Chika to lose herself in thought. She remembered how her family, the Fujiwaras, had intervened back then, trying to bridge the gap with Shirou, not only out of duty but also out of gratitude for the elderly Takeshi, a former benefactor.

Chika looked at her daughter with tenderness.

"When I met your dad, he was already carrying the weight of all of that. But he never used it as an excuse, never let his past define who he truly was."

Mei tilted her head.

"Is that why dad always helps everyone? Is it because he doesn't want them to feel alone?"

Chika was surprised by Mei's accurate observation. Her daughter was too perceptive for her age, something that made her proud but also a little fearful.

"I think you're right, Mei-chan," she stroked her daughter's hair. "But he also does it because he has a very big heart. Although sometimes, that makes him keep certain things to himself."

Mei frowned slightly, as if trying to process that answer.

"Does that mean dad has secrets?"

Chika laughed softly at the adorable pout on her little one's face.

"We all have secrets, sweetheart. But your dad's are just things he prefers to share when he's ready."

Chika knew that Mei's questions about her father weren't just innocent childhood curiosity. Her daughter had inherited her intelligence and inquisitive spirit, which meant she would eventually ask the right questions at the right time. For now, Chika preferred to keep some details of Shirou's past reserved, not out of lack of trust, but because she felt Mei wasn't yet ready to grasp the magnitude of certain events.

"But enough of the serious stuff!" Chika grinned mischievously as she tickled Mei. "Did you know dad used to be really shy when he tried to talk to me at first?"

Mei laughed, squirming to escape the tickling.

"Really?! Dad, shy?! I don't believe it, mom!"

"Oh, believe me, Mei-chan. There are so many things about your dad that would surprise you. But those are stories for another time."

The soft breeze of the afternoon crept through the half-open window of the study, gently stirring the curtains.

Mei sat on the large armchair next to her mother's desk, playing with a small notebook where she doodled random patterns. In front of her, her mother was busy organizing music sheets and colored papers, as though she needed something to focus on to avoid the direction their conversation had taken.

Once again, her mom had sidestepped the questions about her dad. It was a pattern Mei was starting to recognize. Whenever they reached a point where it seemed like she would get answers, her mother would find an excuse: going to the bathroom, getting up to make tea, or even suggesting it was time to practice music together.

"Well, Mei-chan, how about we practice that new piece? I think you're ready to try it on the piano this time."

Mei looked up, her eyes watching every move her mother made. She wasn't angry; she couldn't be. She had learned from her dad that sometimes people kept secrets to protect the ones they loved.

"Okay, mom. I know you'll tell me everything when the time is right."

Chika was taken aback by Mei's words. She set the music sheets on the table and looked at her daughter, meeting her gaze filled with trust and a certain maturity.

"This girl is too smart for her own good... after all, she's an Emiya..."

Mei set the notebook on the sofa and stretched, glancing at the photos on the nearby shelf. One of them showed her mom and dad much younger, both smiling widely during what seemed to be a school festival. Mei recognized that image because her godmother, Kaguya, always mentioned it.

"Godmother Kaguya says that day was really special for you two. Is that true, mom?"

Chika followed her gaze and noticed the photo. A mix of emotion and nostalgia crossed her face.

"Yes, it was a very special day," her mother sat down next to her. "It was during the last school festival at Shuchi'in. Your dad and I had been through so much together, but it was that day when everything between us changed."

Mei adjusted herself, her hands resting on her knees, expectant. Her mother rarely talked about that moment in such detail.

"What happened, mom? Was it when you fell in love?"

Chika smiled softly.

"Not exactly, Mei-chan. We already cared deeply for each other, but it was at that festival when I understood something I had never seen before in your dad."

Chika took a deep breath, her mind drifting back to that day. She remembered the bustle of the festival, the stalls decorated with lights, the sweet aroma of treats, and the music filling the air.

"That day, I decided to play him a melody I had composed, thinking about everything he meant to me," her eyes sparkled. "It was unexpected, but 'Last Stardust' came from a moment of almost... magical inspiration. Not because it was perfect, but because in that melody, I briefly imagined your father wearing... 'a dark red armor'... I think it was the emotion and the magical feeling I always get when he gives me that mischievous smile."

Mei listened attentively, her eyes wide with wonder.

"Then dad does know magic," she looked at her mother with a mischievous smile, "Is that why godmother Kaguya says you two shared a 'unique' moment as a couple?"

Chika laughed softly, ruffling her daughter's hair.

"Kaguya always has a dramatic way of telling things. But yes, it was unique for both of us. I think that was the moment I realized that your dad wasn't just someone incredible; he was also trusting me with a part of his world that no one else knew."

Mei blinked, processing every word, before nodding.

"Then I'll wait, mom," the little girl stayed serious but smiled sweetly, "When you and dad are ready to tell me those secrets, I know they'll be important."

Chika felt a mix of pride and tenderness as she heard that. Her little one was already showing a maturity that reminded her of her father, which only made her smile.

"Thank you, Mei-chan," she gave her a big hug, "But until then, don't worry about secrets. What's important is that you know how much we love you."

"I know, mom! But still, I want dad to teach me his magic someday."

It had been a few days since Chika had noticed her daughter's progress in her piano lessons. Of course, her little one was diligent, but what surprised her the most was Mei's ability to combine that determination with an insatiable curiosity.

That afternoon, after an especially productive session, Mei, with the innocence and sharpness that defined her, brought up a topic that Chika preferred to avoid.

"Mama, you still haven't told me the rest of the story about the last school festival you had with Dad," Mei pretended to be putting away her sheet music, "Did you do something special?"

Chika, who had been looking at her phone calendar, raised her gaze with a nervous smile. Mei was a smart girl, sometimes too smart. Chika knew that behind that seemingly casual question, there was genuine curiosity.

"Oh, it was fun, like any school festival. You know, we enjoyed the music, the food, and even did some patrol activities... Nothing out of the ordinary!"

Mei wasn't fooled. She crossed her arms and looked at her with a mix of skepticism.

"Nothing out of the ordinary?" she raised an eyebrow, "Because I asked my godmother Kaguya for more details…"

Chika chuckled nervously.

"I think I'll have to have a serious talk with your godmother next time... After all, it was thanks to your dad that your uncle stopped being so cowardly in crucial moments!"

Although Chika managed to lightly steer the conversation away, the mystery still hung in the air. It was tough, but her little one eventually dropped the topic for the moment. However, Chika knew it hadn't been entirely escaped.

Later that evening, as Chika was flipping through family albums in the living room, her mind wandered back to the past. She vividly remembered that festival and the connection she had shared with Shirou. It had been more than just a school event; it had marked a turning point in their lives.

Sitting in front of the photographs, she picked one from the shelf. It showed her and Shirou, younger, smiling under the festival lights. She allowed herself a nostalgic sigh before Mei's voice interrupted her thoughts.

"Mama, why are you smiling like that? You look like you're thinking about something nice."

Chika looked up and noticed her little one peeking through the door. "Oh, it's just that I remembered the promise your dad made at the end of that festival."

Mei ran in, curious, and sat next to her.

"What promise? Come on, don't be like that, tell me!"

Chika settled in, pulling Mei into an embrace as she looked at the photo.

"It was the moment your dad told me about his paternal grandfather, Takeshi Yamamoto, and the promise they had made."

"What kind of promise?"

Chika placed her hand on her chin, thinking before responding thoughtfully.

"He promised to do everything he could to reconnect with his blood family, but he also made it clear that he wanted to do it his way. He didn't want to abandon who he was, nor the Emiya name that meant so much to him."

"And did Takeshi-ojiisama accept that?"

"Yes, Takeshi-sama understood. Although he had dreamed of bringing the family back together, he respected that Shirou had his own dreams. It was a difficult agreement, but they both were willing to try."

Mei leaned closer to the photo.

"So, Dad is amazing. He always finds a way to keep his promises."

Chika smiled as she ran her hand through Mei's hair.

"That's right. But what really made that day special was that, for the first time, I felt like he trusted me enough to share that part of his life. It was when I understood how important it was to him to stay true to who he was, even with all the expectations others had for him."

Mei remained silent for a moment, processing her mother's words. Then she looked up with a smile.

"I think Dad is a little like me, right? He likes doing things his way."

Chika laughed, hugging her daughter tightly.

"Yes, you definitely have that in common."

The afternoon was calm, with the warm sunlight streaming through the windows, illuminating the small dining room where mother and daughter were enjoying a homemade cake made by Shirou—curiously, their favorite.

The atmosphere was filled with laughter and the sweet aroma of dessert.

"That was beautiful," Mei said with a broad smile and eyes shining with curiosity. She had noticed the tenderness in her mother's words and the way she spoke about her father, and all of it had touched her deeply.

Chika smiled proudly.

"Indeed." She leaned back a little in her chair, feeling that warm satisfaction of having shared something special with her daughter. "Did you think your dad took the first step in our relationship?"

The little one couldn't help but giggle mischievously while taking another piece of cake, devouring it with such enthusiasm that she almost couldn't speak between bites.

Mei smiled knowingly, chewing quickly.

"So... this is how you tamed the Shuchi'in Casanova?"

"Exactly, that's how your mother tamed the...!"

But before Chika could finish the sentence, a loud and exaggerated sigh of reproach escaped her mouth as she saw the mischievous expression on Mei's face. The little one had used that nickname for her father once again, which made Chika frown.

"Mei-chan! What have I told you about using that nickname in this house?"

"That I shouldn't use it…"

"And what else?"

Mei sighed, knowing her mother was right, and murmured with a hint of sadness.

"That I shouldn't follow Uncle Yuu's evil games…"

Chika looked at her for a moment before smiling warmly. However, she couldn't help but chuckle thinking of the mischief Yuu had been encouraging in the little one.

"That's my girl."

She leaned toward her and hugged her fondly, easing the tension created by the small reprimand.

Mei looked at her mother with a playful smile, but with a serious tone that gave it a peculiar touch.

"That's right, Mama, because Uncle Yuu never told Mei that Dad has a... 'hidden potential of E-rank Luck' and no 'EX-Ability' to charm any woman who crosses his path."

Chika blinked at the surprising revelation and, for a moment, was left speechless. Her daughter had picked up on more than she seemed to, and the mention of the "E-rank Luck potential" made her smile, remembering with a touch of nostalgia the times when Shirou, in his youth, had been at the center of so many stories and rumors, many of them exaggerated or misinterpreted.

"Wow... your uncle knows too much, huh?"

Mei simply looked at her mother with a playful smile, as if keeping a little secret between them. However, even though Chika noticed her daughter knew more than she admitted, she respected her space. Mei knew it wasn't the time yet to share the more complex details of her father's life.

"Sometimes, I think Dad is like... a superhero. But with a bunch of almost magical secrets I don't even understand."

Chika, tenderly, hugged her tighter. The little girl was starting to understand, although there were still many things to uncover. For Mei, her father remained an almost mystical figure, full of mysteries that, in time, she would discover.

"Everything will make sense in time, my little flower. And you'll be the one to help him discover everything he still doesn't know about himself!"

Mei, with a sparkle in her eyes and her face covered in cake, hugged her mother back, enjoying the warmth and security that her family offered her.

The night had fallen gently, and in the living room, the atmosphere was warm and cozy. Mei sat in front of her mother, absorbed in the conversation that had taken place over the past few hours.

Her mother's words about her father still echoed in her mind, leaving a deep mark on her heart. Though she was still young, Mei couldn't help but feel a special connection to the stories her mother shared, as if an invisible bond was forming between them.

At first, she had been merely curious, but now, by the end of the conversation, she was captivated by the tenderness and sincerity with which her mother spoke of their relationship. That was one of the reasons why, after dinner, she couldn't wait any longer and decided to speak to someone else, someone who could offer a more objective perspective on the situation.

That night, like every time her father was not at home, Chika had done everything she could to offer Mei all the support she needed. They talked about many things, and although her father's special situation kept him distant, her mother had smiled and agreed to give her a mobile phone. It wasn't a cutting-edge device by any means, but it served the essentials: calls and messages. So, Mei had no problem accepting the rules. She knew that the most important thing was staying connected with her father, who never failed to keep his promise of calling every night to say "goodnight." To her, that simple gesture meant the world.

At first, she couldn't help but share with him the small "achievements" of her day, like when she had managed to complete a difficult exercise in her piano lessons or how she had surprised her teachers with her ability to solve complex problems—something that often left her teachers in awe.

"Mei-chan is really standing out among her peers," Chika had once said with a proud smile, watching her daughter focus on her books. "It's amazing how mature and talented you are for your age."

The teachers' words seemed to confirm it: "The bloodline of her family cannot be wrong," they would say, referring to the Yamamoto lineage Mei belonged to. However, her mother had always insisted that Mei should never become complacent, as her husband often reminded: "Hunger is the enemy." Shirou repeated these words often, reminding Mei to never give in to vanity or superficiality and to keep her focus on what truly mattered.

That thought lingered in her mind when, suddenly, the sound of the phone broke the silence.

Ring… ring… ring...

Mei, her small face illuminated by excitement, hurried to answer.

"Hello, Uncle Miyuki!"

Her godfather's soft, affectionate laughter was heard on the other end of the line, brightening the room.

"Oh, my sweet Mei-chan! I didn't expect your call at this hour, but I'm so happy to hear your voice. What's going on, little one? Uncle's ready to listen to whatever you have to share."

Mei, unable to contain her excitement, adjusted herself in her seat and, between giggles, began to recount what she had learned that afternoon.

"Hehehe, you know, Uncle, today Mom told me how she made Dad fall in love with her."

"Ah, Chika never misses a chance to boast about your father. But I bet you didn't tell me everything… Where's Shirou now?"

Mei paused for a moment, humming a melody from her favorite song as if searching for the right words to respond.

"Hmm… yesterday, Dad told me it's raining a lot in London, so I was worried he might catch a cold."

Miyuki smiled, feeling a mix of tenderness and nostalgia.

"I see... Shirou's been quite busy lately, hasn't he?"

"Yes."

"It's nice to know how much you care about him, Mei-chan. You remind me so much of your mother when she was young, always so concerned about Shirou, so attentive toward him."

"My mom too?"

"Yes, indeed. It's no wonder your mom was always so excited about everything related to Shirou. She had a hard time admitting it back then, but... oh, that feeling of butterflies in her stomach the first time she fell in love!"

Miyuki sighed fondly, as if transported back in time, to when his best friend was discovering what it meant to love someone so deeply and sincerely. He recalled the moments when Chika had told him, with sparkling eyes and a nervous smile, how she could no longer deny the feelings she had developed for Shirou.

Miyuki continued in a tone both melancholic and affectionate.

"I never thought Chika would give up the idea of being a 'waifu' to become the most special person in Shirou's heart. It's a story that... well, I've been there from the very beginning, watching how your mom changed. And now, seeing Mei-chan so concerned about her dad... it makes me feel so happy and nostalgic at the same time."

Even though the stories they shared were old, they still had the power to make him laugh. Occasionally, jokes and memories about his friend Chika slipped into their conversations, and he couldn't resist sharing the more embarrassing anecdotes about the "love detective," as he affectionately called her.

"Does little Mei-chan want to hear more stories about how your dad saved your mom from evil villains?"

On the other end of the line, the girl shouted enthusiastically.

"Yes, yes, yes!"

Mei's childish laughter rang out clearly, and Miyuki felt even closer to her, as if he could see his goddaughter's delighted expression. The excitement was so palpable that, without realizing it, a figure appeared at the door, a familiar figure who couldn't help but show a bit of curiosity.

"My love, Miyuki, who are you talking to that's making you so happy at this hour?"

Miyuki, surprised by the sudden question, looked up and saw his wife entering the room, a curious and slightly sarcastic expression in her eyes. Despite the surprise, he responded with a calm smile.

"Oh... Kaguya, it's our super special goddaughter."

Hearing the girl's name, Kaguya smiled and hugged her husband, her voice softening: "Oh… if it isn't little Mei-chan! I'm surprised by such an unusual call from her."

She moved closer, looking at her husband with a gleam in her eyes that didn't go unnoticed.

"How's my little ray of sunshine doing?"

Suddenly, Mei's cheerful voice came through the phone clearly.

"Hello, Godmother! It's a pleasure for Mei to greet you, good evening."

Miyuki smiled as he heard his goddaughter's manners.

"Such sweet manners you have, my dear! Thankfully, you're not as uncouth as your cousin."

Kaguya raised an eyebrow, her expression turning serious as she shot him a sharp glance.

"Dear!"

"It's a joke, Kaguya, you know our Mikan-chan is as beautiful and elegant as her mother!"

However, his joke had the opposite effect. Kaguya's face flushed, and Miyuki noticed how his wife crossed her arms with a slight pout.

"Mo… How can you be so mean to us? Why does this sweet mother and her beautiful daughter always end up being intimidated by their cold husband and father?"

Kaguya's eyes filled with crocodile tears, and Miyuki couldn't help but sigh. He knew he had crossed the line with his joke, and before the situation could get more uncomfortable, he approached her and kissed her cheek affectionately.

"You know as well as I do that, thanks in part to the little push Shirou gave us, we've been able to be more honest with each other."

He took the phone from his wife's hands and turned toward it, speaking in a playful tone while admiring his wife.

"Besides, we have little Mei-chan as our guardian angel."

Mei, who had been listening carefully, didn't hesitate to intervene, and her tone of warning made Miyuki tense up a bit.

"Godfather, you can't intimidate Mei like that! I'm telling Auntie your secret about her photo!"

Kaguya's voice rang out from the other end of the line, loud and clear, causing Miyuki to tense.

"MI-YU-KI-SAN."

Seeing the danger, Miyuki tried to calm the situation, but his wife's fixed gaze overwhelmed him.

"Let's calm down, my love. You know Mei-chan is just a child, she might be misunderstanding a few things..."

But Kaguya, with her triumphant expression, wasn't letting him off that easily.

Kaguya smiled as she gently squeezed Miyuki's hand, looking at the phone.

"I'd love to hear more about that in detail, Mei-chan. Ara, ara… How cute? My beloved husband wouldn't leave me talking alone with our charming goddaughter, would he?"

Miyuki could only nod silently, resigned to his wife's "triumphant" look. Meanwhile, the laughter of everyone present filled the room, including the witty jokes and laughter from Mei, who was still enjoying the call.

The soft echo of the piano filled the room, its music floating like a caress through the air, but Mei was lost in her thoughts.

Each note resonated in her ears, yet her mind remained tangled in the words her mother had spoken, still dancing through her head.

During a break in her practice, her mother had talked about her father, reminding her how she would always sigh with concern whenever she mentioned his stubbornness, the way he could be incredibly headstrong when he set his mind to something.

"Your father," Chika would say with a mix of exasperation and admiration, "is one of those people who won't stop at anything, even when he knows he's on the brink of despair."

Mei smiled faintly at the image of her father forming in her mind—an image so familiar, yet so intense. What her mother had said echoed in her chest: "He has a major flaw, Mei-chan... a stubbornness that sometimes consumes him, but it's precisely because of that he fights with everything he has to protect others."

At first, Mei had thought her mother was referring to something negative, one of the many facets of her father that often seemed more of a burden than a blessing. However, as her mother continued, Mei began to understand. Deep down, that stubbornness was merely a manifestation of his deepest commitment and love for those he cared about. It was one of the reasons Shirou had been a hero to so many, and why her mother had always been drawn to him.

"He's like a star, Mei-chan... a star that shines so brightly, that in his journey to the top, he turns to stardust. He gives everything... everything for others."

Chika had spoken of how, in many moments of the past, Shirou had broken down, sacrificed every last bit of himself to save those he loved. "Every time I saw him do something like that," her mother had said, "I worried for him. I felt sorrow watching him destroy himself from within. But that was what drew me to him, Mei-chan. That dedication, that unbreakable will."

The little girl closed her eyes, letting the melody of her mother's words slip into her thoughts. Now she understood why her mother loved her father so much. It wasn't just his appearance or his heroism; it was the purity behind his actions, the nobility of his sacrifice. Her mother had fallen in love with that determination, with his strength to keep moving forward, no matter the cost.

This wasn't new to Mei. Over the years, she had watched how her parents' relationship had been forged from those very actions. Chika had learned to trust Shirou, trusting that he would never leave her behind. And in turn, Shirou had found in Chika a steady support, the person who helped him keep going in his dream of becoming a "hero of justice," in his own way.

Mei sighed as her fingers gently pressed the piano keys, evoking the melody her mother had composed in honor of her father— a piece full of emotion and sacrifice. "Last Stardust" was not just a song; it was a representation of Shirou at his purest: a man who shone like a star, willing to fade completely to save those he loved. The melody was the perfect reflection of everything her father stood for.

Each time she played the song, Mei found something new within it. Something mysterious and poetic that made her feel more connected to the sacrifices her father had made, and to the deep love her mother had poured into every note. The musical piece was more than just a composition—it was a window into Shirou Emiya's soul, his constant struggle, and his unyielding will to protect.

"Of course... of course," Mei thought, smiling with a touch of nostalgia.

Her mother had taken a while to agree to teach her the song, but Mei knew that her constant teasing and childish enthusiasm had played a crucial role in convincing her.

"Games, jokes, the way I'm always laughing... I'm sure that's what made her say yes."

As Shirou's birthday approached, Mei's motivation grew. She was determined to play the song perfectly, in a private recital for her family. She knew her father, with his humility and tenderness, probably didn't expect such an emotional surprise. But she wanted to give him a gift that truly captured the essence of his life and sacrifice.

With a determined look, she prepared to continue her practice. The room was once again filled with the notes of the piano, each chord filling the air with the same sense of love and sacrifice her mother had infused into the composition.

The soft sound of the piano continued to fill the room, its notes drifting gently through the air like a calm breeze, as mother and daughter exchanged glances.

The sparkle in Mei's eyes showed a renewed determination: her father's return from his business trip to London was imminent, and she was determined to surprise him with her best performance. Meanwhile, Chika watched her daughter with a mix of pride and tenderness, feeling the weight of the passing days and the hours she couldn't dedicate to her, but knowing that her little one's effort was worth every moment.

The sense of satisfaction that had united them dissipated when Chika noticed her phone vibrating in the pocket of her jacket. It was an urgent call.

With a somewhat forced smile, she tried to soften the news.

"Alright, Mei-chan, we'll save this practice for another day," she said, though her tone carried a slight sadness she couldn't entirely hide. "Mom has an important meeting with her campaign team in an hour."

Mei, ever perceptive, noticed the subtle exhaustion in her mother's eyes. After a brief moment of thought, she lifted her head with determination, as if her little smile could bring a little light back to the situation.

"I know, Mommy. Your work is important too, so Mei will do her best. For you and for Daddy!"

Just hearing those words made Chika's heart tighten. A lump formed in her throat, but to hide her vulnerability, she placed her hand over Mei's, gently stroking her hair.

"You're such a talented and special girl for your age," she murmured, struggling to maintain her smile. "That's why Mommy doesn't want to be away from you. But I promise, this is only temporary."

Mei nodded, refusing to let her innocent smile fade. Despite her brave words, her mother's gesture made her feel a little tug at her heart. Just when she thought the moment had passed, her mother hugged her tightly, pressing her against her chest. Tears, as unpredictable as ever, began to slip down Chika's cheeks.

"You know Mommy loves you so much, don't you?" she asked, her voice breaking.

The little girl, who had seen her mother apologize for the same thing over and over in recent days, was at a loss for words. Instead, she simply let herself be enveloped in the affection, returning the hug with the same intensity.

During those moments, the room filled with the soft melody of the rain beginning to gently tap against the window.

The embrace lasted a long while, until they finally separated. Chika's eyes were red, but she managed to contain her emotions in a light smile. Mei, though her eyes were slightly moist, seemed radiant, as if the sadness from moments ago had already faded.

"Mei will be good while waiting for you to come back, Mommy," the little girl said with a bright smile as she climbed onto the piano bench, reaching high enough to kiss her surprised mother on the cheek. Her face mirrored the same reassuring expression her father had used to comfort Chika.

"I'll try to get back before dinner, I promise," Chika replied, returning the gesture of affection as she gently stroked her cheek. "But try not to bother Aunt Moeha too much like last time, okay? Remember, the servants and guards will report everything the little 'Ojou-sama' does in the mansion."

Mei frowned slightly, a hint of disapproval showing, but she quickly countered with a playful smile.

"But... Mommy... Aunt Moeha always wants us to play princesses. I don't always like being the dragon."

Chika raised an eyebrow and looked at her, feigning a severity she couldn't quite pull off.

"You and I both know that's not the real issue," she said, a playful tone in her voice. "You play with her more than once, and you take advantage of how easy it is to get her to do whatever you want!"

"But, Mommy..." Mei tried to continue the discussion, though her tone had turned more playful than serious.

"No buts, young lady!" Chika interrupted, raising a finger in a way that was more playful than authoritative.

"At least I wish Aunt Toyomi or my godmother Kaguya could look after me," Mei suggested with a small sigh, adopting the puppy-dog look her father used to get what he wanted.

Chika laughed softly, though a touch of sadness appeared in her eyes. "You know I wish that were possible, but your godmother Kaguya has started her own independent photography business and will be very busy this week. And Aunt Toyomi is still doing business abroad, so I couldn't get in touch with her, though I wish I could."

Mei's face tightened slightly at this, and a shadow passed over her golden eyes.

"But... what do I do now?"

Chika, with a gentler smile, hugged her again. "I know you love spending time with them, but there will be more opportunities, Mei-chan. I promise."

Mei looked at her mother with eyes full of doubt.

"Do you really promise?"

"Of course!" Chika responded firmly, squeezing her a little tighter. "And besides, Mommy has gotten the best tickets for the big show at the Tokyo Dome next month!"

"Is that true, Mommy? Does that mean we'll see the famous rising idol, Ai Hoshino?"

Chika smiled knowingly as she saw the excitement in her daughter's eyes.

"Has Mommy ever lied to you, my little treasure?" Mei nodded eagerly. "The one and only Ai Hoshino, live and in person. It wasn't easy, but it seems your father's influence has opened some doors, and we managed to get very special passes to be backstage. So, my little Mei, you're going to meet your idol in person!"

"You're the best mom! Well, Dad is too. I just wish he could come home soon," Mei sighed as her mother cupped her cheeks.

"Your dad is working so hard for us, Mei. And I know he's doing his best on his own. So when he comes back, we should greet him with a smile, don't you think?" Chika smiled warmly at Mei, acknowledging her husband's sacrifice and effort.

Both nodded together, sharing a knowing look.

The family dojo was bathed in a warm golden glow, the sound of the bowstring vibrating through the air.

"Zún..." "Zunn..." "Zún..."

Each vibration of the string, each arrow soaring through the air, was a testament to the perfection of the art of Kyūdō, a silent ritual of precision and serenity.

In the dojo, the echo of the twilight seemed to caress the space, while the figure of Mei, her silver hair tied in a long ponytail, moved with the grace of someone who was far from a beginner. Though twin braids still adorned the front of her head, her posture as she held the bow reflected the concentration of a dedicated soul. At just five years old, she already mastered an art that others could only dream of.

Shirou Emiya watched with a mixture of pride and amazement. Time seemed to dissolve around him as his eyes followed each movement of his daughter—the way she stood firm, the natural flow in her movements, which not only reflected effort but also a certain inner peace that had begun to blossom within her.

"Mei, your posture is excellent," Shirou said, stepping closer and placing his hand on her small shoulders, smiling warmly. "Just make sure to keep that focus. The movements need to be fluid, like an extension of your own body." The softness in his voice conveyed both authority and tenderness. There was something deeply endearing in the way he looked at his daughter, as if seeing a reflection of his own journey and the struggles he had faced to get to where he was.

Mei slowly lowered the bow, her face showing a hint of concern.

"But Mei feels like she's not as good as you, Dad..." she said, her voice faltering with a trace of discouragement, though she tried to maintain her composure.

Shirou crouched down to her level, smiling with a mix of patience and understanding.

"Well, you know what I always tell you..." His voice softened, almost affectionately. "Practice makes perfect." He looked at her with an expression full of affection, noticing the small grimace of frustration on her face.

"I know, but no matter how hard Mei tries, she feels like she can't improve..." Mei said, looking down at the floor with an expression that betrayed her disappointment. The bow hung loosely from her arm, as though her enthusiasm had drained for a moment.

"Listen, Mei," Shirou said, gently stroking her hair. "When I started, I wasn't that good. In fact, I didn't even know if I'd ever master it..." Shirou watched as tears began to glisten in his daughter's golden eyes, and with a sigh, he hugged her softly. "I promise you, this path is long, and one day, the bow will feel like an extension of who you are. But you have to be patient with yourself."

"But... I want you to be proud of me, Dad," Mei murmured, her voice trembling as she dropped the quiver to the ground, the arrow slipping from her wrist to the floor as if the uncertainty itself had overtaken her body.

"Mei," Shirou said firmly, lifting her face to look her in the eyes. "I am incredibly proud of you. Your progress has been amazing, and I'm telling you this as your father. Don't compare yourself to anyone else. Your path is unique."

The little girl, embraced by her father, allowed the tears she had been holding back to flow slowly, feeling an indescribable warmth in being so close to him.

They stayed in that embrace for a long while. However, each of them was deep in their own thoughts. Shirou reflected on how he had arrived at this point, how, despite all the accomplishments his daughter had achieved in the musical world, she still felt an internal pressure that led her to doubt herself. She didn't want to just be a reflection of others' expectations, of the high hopes placed upon her mother when she was younger.

His little girl thought about how she had decided to set aside music to explore new possibilities. Though she possessed innate talent, she had chosen a more personal path, one where she could feel free of the shadows of others. That's how Kyūdō entered her life, suggested by Shirou as a way to explore something uniquely hers. Chika had supported this decision, aware of Mei's need to find something that was truly her own, away from others' pressures.

Shirou sighed, his thoughts turning deeper.

"Dammit..." he thought, "My daughter is incredibly similar to me." It wasn't surprising, after all, that Mei, despite her young age, showed the same determination he had during his darkest moments.

"Sometimes you surprise me, my princess," Shirou murmured, smiling as he stroked her head again. "Only you know how to always make me feel so proud of you."

Mei smiled weakly, her heart softened by her father's words. "Thank you, Dad," she murmured, gazing into Shirou's eyes with immense gratitude.

Even though the past months had been full of challenges due to his new role as CEO of the Yamamoto company, Shirou had done his best to keep up with his Kyūdō lessons with Mei. It had been difficult, of course, but his daughter never failed to surprise him. Even from a distance, through phone exchanges and photos sent by Chika, Shirou had seen how much Mei had progressed in the discipline. More and more, she appeared determined, her skill growing each day.

However, this particular week had been especially tough. Shirou's work demands were growing, and finding time to be with his daughter was becoming increasingly difficult. But no matter how busy he was, there was always room in his heart for Mei, and Kyūdō had become their quiet way of connecting, of facing together the melancholy that, like a shadow, had settled in their hearts.

"Do you know that Mei loves you very much, Dad?"

Mei's voice, still small but filled with tender vulnerability, echoed through the dojo.

"I know, my little one," Shirou replied gently, his tone full of affection as he continued to hold her.

"Do you still have to leave again?" The little one didn't hide the sadness in her voice. "Mei will turn six next autumn, Dad, you can't miss it."

Shirou felt a pang in his heart. It was hard to see his daughter so affected by his absence, though he knew that because of his work, he couldn't always be there.

"But it will only be a week, my treasure," Shirou said with a smile, looking at Mei's face, which bore such a strong resemblance to Chika's. Shirou's playful laugh eased the tension in the air. "There's no force in the world that will make me miss your party, I promise."

"Do you promise?"

Mei raised her little pinky, her eyes still filled with doubt.

"Of course, my little Mei!"

Shirou intertwined his pinky with hers, sealing the promise.

Mei smiled, though her eyes still reflected the internal worry she felt.

"Remember, Mommy always tells Mei that breaking a promise is something no man should ever do, especially to a woman," she said softly, yet with surprising wisdom for her age. Her eyes shone with a mix of sadness and resolve. "I don't want Mommy to cry again."

Shirou felt a lump form in his stomach at hearing those words. He remembered the broken promise he had made in the past, a mistake that had been rectified, but still left a shadow of guilt in his heart. Mei, though small, was incredibly observant. Nothing escaped her.

"I know, sweetheart," he said with a calm smile as he stroked her hair. "That won't happen again." Then he pressed his forehead to Mei's, closing his eyes for a moment. "Your father found a new reason to be a hero of justice a long time ago."

The sunlight streamed through the curtains, warm and soft, and I closed my eyes for just a moment longer, wishing my dreams could last a little longer.

"It would be so great if this weren't just another dream..." I whispered, hugging my blanket and smiling a little, letting my imagination wander.

"It's not fair! I wanted more time to play!"

I sat up quickly, blinking to clear my vision. There she was, Alice. Of course, it was no surprise she wouldn't let this slip by.

She was floating near the ceiling, holding her blue book while still blinking between golden hues. Her silver braids seemed as angry as she was, swaying from side to side as she waved her arms.

"Good morning, Alice!" I said, trying not to laugh as I rubbed my eyes.

"This is not a good day!" she protested, frowning and pouting dramatically. "The story ended too quickly! I wanted a better ending! One with fireworks and dragons!"

I crossed my arms, pretending to be serious. "Alice, do you remember what happened the last time you decided the ending?"

"What happened?" she asked, puffing up her cheeks as if she already knew she was going to lose the argument.

"Well, you invented a giant dragon that ate the whole cake, and then we had to ask Don Quixote for help to save Snow White! You promised that wouldn't happen again!"

Alice looked at me as though I had said something terrible. "That's not true! This time was different… this time it was a cotton candy snake. It was Alice's turn to decide the ending, and make it the best one ever!"

"Alright, alright. You can decide the ending next time," I said, getting out of bed and starting to fix my hair in my usual style. Then, with a slight smile, I added, "By the way, speaking of exciting things... A package came for Dad today!"

That stopped her in her tracks. "A package?"

"Yep... it came from China."

"And what's inside? Is it something shiny? Something mysterious?"

"I don't know... but remember that we still have some of my special reserve left?" I leaned toward her as if I were about to tell her a big secret. "Do you... know what that means?"

"What does it mean?" she asked, leaning toward me with wide eyes.

Alice's eyes grew even bigger as she leaned toward me, full of curiosity. "What does it mean? What, what, what?"

"It's the perfect time for our first tea party of the day!"

"We'll enjoy your famous Earl Grey tea!" Her face lit up with excitement immediately. "Our party will be huge! I'll take care of the cakes and cookies! Nothing will top it!"

"Exactly," I smiled, enjoying her excitement. But then, I pretended to remember something important. "Though... there's something else. Do you know what day it is today?"

Alice stopped in her tracks, looking at me with an expression that was part suspicion, part surprise. "What day is it? Alice never forgets important things, never!"

"It's my birthday!" I said, sticking my tongue out playfully.

"Your birthday?!" Alice shouted, throwing herself at me to give me a hug so tight I almost fell. "Obviously, Alice would never forget! I have a special, super secret, magical gift for you!"

"I can't wait to see it!" I replied, laughing while trying to wriggle free from her hug. "And also... Dad's coming back from his trip today!"

"Really?! That's perfect!"

"I know!"

Alice grabbed my hand, and before I knew it, we were spinning around the room, floating together amidst laughter, leaving golden sparkles in the air. I felt like something amazing was about to happen. I didn't know what, but my heart was racing with excitement.

Today was going to be magical. I was sure of it.

As they both laughed together, their laughter echoing through the halls, Mei couldn't help but let her mind drift back to Alice's words from a few days ago.

"So... do you really think I'm becoming a good Master?"

Alice placed her cup down and looked at her with an uncommon seriousness. "Alice doesn't know about other Masters, but she's sure Mei is the best Master for her!"

The idea still seemed unreal to Mei, but Alice's confidence was contagious. However, life had other plans for that day.

Outside, on the path leading to the mansion's front door, a hunched figure walked calmly. His cane softly echoed against the stones, accompanying his measured steps. His outfit, a black cloak that seemed to absorb the light, billowed in the wind. The man's eyes gleamed with a mixture of mischief and ancient wisdom.

In his hands, he carried a small package, tied with a red ribbon. A handwritten note rested on top of the gift: "For Mei, a little glimpse into the future. Happy sixth birthday."

The man observed the mansion door with a sly smile. "Oh, Shirou, old friend, how will you react to this?" he murmured to himself as he carefully placed the package on the ground.

Ding... dong. Ding... dong.

He rang the doorbell twice, slowly and deliberately. Then, he took a step back and waited. His eyes narrowed slightly, savoring the anticipation of the spectacle that he was sure would unfold.

Inside the mansion, Mei and Alice froze. "Are you expecting someone?" Alice asked.

Mei shook her head and stood up quickly. "No… I'll go check."

She ran to the door, and when she opened it, she found the package. She looked at it curiously as Alice approached behind her.

"What is this?" Alice asked, leaning down to read the note. Her expression shifted to a mixture of excitement and confusion.

Mei picked up the package and closed the door behind her. "It's a gift…" she murmured, turning it over in her hands. There was something about it that seemed familiar, though she couldn't explain why.

From his position in the shadows, the strange man with white hair drew a jeweled sword, watching as the girls carried the package inside. His smile widened. "This world needs a bit more controlled chaos, and you seem to be necessary to fix the disaster your father's existence has caused. Maybe along the way, you'll discover some fun sides of him your mother didn't even know about. Have fun, my little mage. This is just the beginning, but you can count on me to help you."

The gleam in his eyes intensified as he disappeared in a flash of light, leaving behind only the echo of his laughter.

Hello once again! I'm KaleidoMirror, and I bid farewell after sharing the thrilling prologue of this new saga titled "Echo of the Seasons," specifically called "Last Stardust (Origin)."

The initial inspiration that guided me has resulted in subsequent chapters already prepared. I find this saga the most fluid to write for me, as it has allowed me to explore ideas that I had previously laid out but, due to certain limitations, couldn't fully develop. However, everything will depend on how the plot evolves.

For now, I sincerely hope you've enjoyed this initial installment. I'm eager to meet you in the next chapter and share more of this exciting story with you! See you soon!

Chapter Text

- Main Dining Room, Yamamoto Mansion -

(Saturday Morning, 08:05 am)

Within the vast hall, all the visitors who had enjoyed it in the past had come to a similar consensus about the atmosphere imbued with elegance and refinement. This was true if one observed the exquisite quality of the furniture and the velvet curtains adorning the stained glass windows, which lent the space a unique distinction. These elements, more than mere decorative objects, had the power to evoke in those who beheld them a journey through the passages of Japanese culture.

In every strategically placed corner of the room, some of the family treasures were proudly displayed, narrating the history of the lineage and the influential political trajectory of the Yamamoto and Fujiwara clans throughout the centuries, from the glorious days of the Edo Shogunate to the splendid Heian period.

Its walls partially revealed the ancestral grandeur worthy of the elite. Adorned with a series of paintings, artifacts, and self-portraits of illustrious figures. However, among the more reserved areas, discreetly displayed pieces of ancient calligraphy could be appreciated, revealing part of the richness of the venerable history of the Fujiwara, which had recently become one of the youngest family members' most special hobbies as part of continuing their legacy.

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Despite the opulence surrounding the dining room, it radiated a more intimate and personal atmosphere, especially in the past six months since the young 'Ojou-sama' had instituted a very special rule: once their morning duties were concluded, the servants and guards discreetly withdrew, leaving the table set with a flawlessly arranged Western-style breakfast.

The table was adorned with an array of delights: golden waffles, scrambled eggs with crispy bacon, freshly squeezed orange juice, and a selection of fresh fruits emitting tantalizing aromas.

While it might seem that Yamamoto Mei was enjoying a quiet morning alone, the reality was quite different. She shared her breakfast with her best friend, watching with a characteristic 'Emiya' smile as Alice enthusiastically devoured her favorite cream-filled waffles.

Reflecting on her short life at this point, she couldn't help but smile as she recalled the incident from a couple of months ago that started all this: That morning, she had decided to invite Alice to breakfast for the first time.

The result was something that no one could have foreseen, exceeding all explanation beyond 'common' sense: the plates and cutlery used by her had taken on a "seemingly autonomous" movement, surprising and bewildering the servants who had witnessed this phenomenon. This had led to speculations about the presence of ghostly entities in the dining room, triggering a series of incidents and confusions Mei had not expected to be involved in.

However, the truth was far from those assumptions.

The simple explanation for all of the above was that Nursery Rhyme was in a kind of 'Presence Concealment' mode, although this ability is common among the "Assassin" class, in Alice's case, it was an extremely degraded version of her own. Furthermore, Alice herself had confirmed to her that as her master, she had a very special ability that could be due to her lineage.

So, this episode only confirmed that she had been aware when she was younger of supernatural presences that she had ignored, but since Alice's company had become routine, that kind of sixth sense had become more sensitive.

In the end, after considerable effort to disguise these events as magic tricks to surprise her mother on her next birthday, calm finally returned to the Yamamoto household. Well, almost everything because the little 'oju-sama' received large sets of similar games from Chika, who encouraged her daughter to become a skilled player like she was in her youth, that was just the first step for her mother to plant in her the seed of Mei starting her own game club at her "Gakushuin Elementary School".

Although her daughter received them gladly, causing Alice to jump for joy, both girls loved writing stories more and shared a taste for reading fairy tales and classic children's stories. They both also decided to give the games a chance, which provided them with hours of fun together when they had game nights regularly.

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At this point, Mei delighted in watching her friend finally place her small blue book on the table after numerous attempts to teach her good manners had failed, surprised by how childish she could be.

But her actions fell short when she found herself amidst Alice's usual provocations and teasing when they engaged in a contest of who "dominated" whom. In the end, Mei, as the "master," decided to ignore it, focusing her efforts on following the path of an "ojou-sama" as her mother Chika wished of her, leaving the little violet-eyed girl visibly frustrated at not being able to drag them into her games on most occasions.

This time, to Alice's misfortune, she ended up losing the match, so she decided to focus on her own breakfast with a defeated expression, but finding solace in adding a generous portion of honey to her waffles, attempting to create a big smile, completely absorbed in the task.

"Don't you think your breakfast has become a bit too sweet for your own good, Alice-chan?" Mei broke the silence with a comment on the peculiarity of the situation.

"I don't see anything wrong with it," the servant responded with her mouth full, not losing her childish charm. "Besides, we can have fun scaring the servants with our pranks later, before your birthday party, Mei-chan!"

"It's not right for you to do that. You should be more careful..." the birthday girl hesitated for a moment before sighing. "Mom has been quite 'aggressive' lately trying to catch the mansion's 'ghost' every time she comes to the dining room."

"Hehehe!" her friend's laughter echoed in response. "You're right! But you can't deny it's fun, right?"

"I know," she confirmed as she took a sip of orange juice. "It's just that every time we do it, it reminds me of the first time we met. Do you remember, Alice-chan?"

"How could I forget!" exclaimed the girl, grabbing her book as she gracefully leaped onto the table, floating amidst golden flashes and easily reaching the ceiling with pirouettes and jumps. "It was our first tea party, Alice's favorite!"

"Especially when you showed up as an unexpected guest," Mei commented, showing a touch of etiquette as she wiped her mouth with a napkin, pointing to her friend, who was still enjoying herself dancing through the air. "Do you have any idea how scared I was to see you suddenly appear in front of me out of nowhere? It was really hard to convince the guards and servants that it was a mistake on my part to alert them so abruptly."

"It was so much fun," Alice smiled as she approached her friend. "Especially because I still remember your surprised face at seeing me, Mei-chan. So don't try to deny it!" ignoring Mei's betrayed look, the violet-eyed girl approached her friend, indulging in the leftover strawberries from her plate with eagerness, leaving traces of cream on her mouth and nose in the process. "I still wish I could taste that Gyokuro tea again."

"Still," exclaimed Mei, allowing Alice to have her way and taking her face in her hands, carefully wiping the traces of food. "It was an event I wouldn't change for anything in the world, Nursery Rhyme. Especially because you've been my true and only friend since then," she admitted with a smile, tucking some stray hairs of her friend. "You were patient enough to answer all my questions about the Servants, even though I didn't understand everything about you the first time. Our meeting ended up being extremely fun!"

"I feel the same way, Mei-chan!" Alice let herself be fixed but puffed her cheeks in embarrassment. "Alice is happy to spend such fun days with you! Especially because we always have super-special tea parties!" Looking into her master's eyes with the usual puppy-dog tactic, it was obvious to Mei what her friend wanted.

"I know!, I know!, I'll save the last snacks from my Dad for you!".

"Hooray!, Hooray!, Hooray!"

Mei relented with a smile as she watched Alice dance with joy around the room. "But can I at least have one?" the golden-eyed girl looked at her concerned for a moment before making a compromise. "At least because I have the role of 'master', I deserve at least that, don't you think?"

Alice paused for a moment seeming to think about it for a moment. "Only if you leave the sweetest ones for me!" she smiled, making a victory sign with her fingers. "Especially if it's your dad's legendary strawberry cake!" the girl looked at her with a tender expression, but with contained seriousness. "That's Alice's favorite!"

They both looked at each other for a moment before bursting into laughter, finding all this interaction amusing.

"All right, all right, you win," Mei sighed as she urged her friend to finish their respective breakfasts amidst an atmosphere of calm and laughter, exchanging anecdotes and jokes. They didn't miss the opportunity to share trivial details of the past week, during which they had noticed some changes in the mansion which could be due to the preparations for the grand gala in honor of the Yamamoto princess.

In the end, Mei herself was eager to turn seven today. But, what both little girls had in mind for now at least, was to anticipate their own mid-day tea party before continuing with their busy schedule in the afternoon, especially because it was a big day for her.

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– Emiya Personal Study, Yamamoto Mansion –

(Saturday Morning, 09:25 am)

Both girls immersed themselves in the room, each focused on her task. Gracefully floating, Alice examined the tall shelves housing not only ancient tomes but also dusty books and frames containing sepia-toned photographs of the Yamamoto family; meanwhile, Mei meticulously inspected her father's desk and personal area. Here, among piles of documents and secret cabinets, she moved with utmost familiarity, knowing every nook and cranny of these spaces.

Accessing this room was no longer a challenge for them, as it had been in the past, but this time, Mei had decided to make use of her newly discovered abilities in the art of 'Onmyōdō' to enter. These abilities had emerged barely three months ago when Nursery Rhyme, her friend, stumbled upon some compendiums on esoteric cosmology written by the legendary 'Abe no Seimei.' Despite the evident deterioration of some volumes and the complexity of the passages, she saw it as a personal challenge, fueled by an inexplicable fascination resonating deep within her being.

This led her to dedicate every spare moment to developing her skills in calligraphy and historical research. Mei saw how her suspicions gradually took shape. After trials and errors, with some mansion furniture broken in "mysterious" circumstances, Mei finally managed to master some spells. She even stored them in scrolls through strokes with 'special ink,' preparing to use them in future situations.

As she reached a certain level in her self-learning, they celebrated with a grand tea party amidst laughter and childish animations, courtesy of Nursery Rhyme's 'magic.' This moment became a special memory, marking Mei's step towards her identity as a true "magus," a step that strengthened her self-confidence and her relationship with Alice.

With each achievement, Mei felt more confident in herself, self-appointing herself as a "reliable master." She solemnly declared that she would never fail in her duties, thus reaffirming her bond with Alice as master and servant. At this point, each success strengthened their friendship, turning it into a completely genuine and deep trust.

Nursery Rhyme seized this change in Mei to share some details about ancient Japanese sorcery. They might not be many or even not from major branches like Onmyōdō. But it was practical enough for her master's curiosity to be genuine, and she showed a keen interest in learning it.

Unknowingly, Alice fueled her master's desire to discover why her father had hidden this knowledge in his private study. This curiosity drove Mei to continue her regular explorations, uncovering hidden artifacts under protective spells and formations of low complexity bounded fields. Although she initially struggled to dismantle them, she persisted in her quest.

And in the end, all the effort paid off.

Mei discovered a considerable amount of treasures, each increasing her thirst for knowledge. But most surprising was finding one of the original tomes of the famous book "Tale of Goenji," along with a quill and an inkwell that seemed to hold more value than mere antiques. Additionally, she found exquisite traditional Japanese kimonos. But most intriguing were the sheets of paper and scrolls dating back to the Heian era, intensifying her suspicions.

Among the oldest scrolls, Mei discovered inscriptions and symbols that resonated with the knowledge she had acquired about Onmyōdō. Each discovery seemed to open a door to a hidden and mysterious world that had been lying dormant right under her feet all this time.

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On this occasion, what had led them to their father's private study was to obtain some 'Pu-erh' tea they had seen last time and hoped to incorporate into their own afternoon tea party. This was not to mention that their father would be arriving in a couple of hours, so they needed to be quicker due to the lack of time. Therefore, they decided to search more quickly and organized to be able to retrieve the last snacks hidden in the 'emergency reserve' that had been prepared by their father before he set off on his "final journey".

Furthermore, at this point, Mei suspected that perhaps her father had noticed the repeated 'incursions' both had made into his office in the last month, which was why entry this time was a bit more challenging than usual. As she observed Alice searching the shelves unsuccessfully, the birthday girl decided to search once again through the hidden compartments of her father's personal desk.

To exercise the utmost caution possible, this time Mei decided not to recklessly disarrange the set of cards, documents about his latest international business dealings, and urgent corporate movements scattered on the table, choosing to ignore them after a quick glance.

However, everything changed for her when she noticed a medium-sized box that immediately caught her attention. She detected no strange 'aroma' from the box, which made her feel confident it was nothing unusual. Debating whether it was right to take the package or not, her sense of curiosity prevailed, leading her to hold the package in her small hands. Analyzing it closely, examining its apparently ordinary appearance, devoid of details about the sender or any special seals. In the end, she looked at it triumphantly before eagerly opening it to discover its contents.

"How wonderful!" she exclaimed excitedly upon finding something she had never imagined inside the box. "They look so delicious!" she admired as she found another small finely decorated box inside, accompanied by a package full of chocolate bonbons that looked very tempting.

Despite her initial surprise, she didn't let herself be deceived. She found no clues about the sender or any additional information, just a small note on the lid wrapped in a black bow similar to the one she wore herself, but arranged more roughly. The note bore a barely legible sentence with a drawing that seemed familiar to her, reminiscent of her own command seals adorning the back of her left hand.

[For the Little Princess of the Yamamoto Clan]

At that moment, it became evident to her that, although someone might underestimate her due to her young age, she had always been cautious in her decisions. She showed a certain degree of suspicion, especially because of the drawing that seemed familiar, yet different, with its combination of curved and straight lines intertwined in an elegant and symmetrical manner. Mei didn't overlook this detail, especially the minimal but obvious presence of latent magical energy.

After looking at it for a few more seconds, she sighed resignedly, unable to find any more relevant details, and decided to tuck it into one of the secret pockets of her gothic dress with some reluctance.

"Look, look, look, Mei-chan!" Her friend's anxious voice took her by surprise, causing Mei to shift her focus and notice how Alice held an ancient family album in her hands. "You look so tiny in this photo!" Alice continued, pointing to a particular image where Mei, at just two years old, appeared happily kissing her father's cheek as he held her in his arms, from the edge one could appreciate long silver hair that gave an idea about her mother's role in taking the picture at that moment.

"I know," Mei responded affectionately as she contemplated her father's warm expression. "Apparently, it was taken when my parents were on an excursion to one of the oldest temples in Nara Prefecture a few years ago," she revealed, noticing the background landscape in the image, briefly longing for her parents' presence at that moment.

"I want to go! I want to go! I want to go!" Alice's frustrated but insistent response was all it took to convince her.

"Okay, Alice-chan," assured Mei, making a mental note to discuss it with her mother. "But I don't know if the temple is open at this time of year. Besides, I've heard there have been strange weather changes lately, which makes traveling, especially by boat, a bit dangerous. It's still something we need to check before doing it."

"But..., But..., But..."

"I know..., I know..." Mei attempted to console Alice as she saw some tears fall from her best friend's eyes. "Let's make a promise to never forget it... After all, have I ever broken a promise?"

"Never!" Alice finally smiled, to the great delight of the golden-eyed girl.

Sometimes Mei wondered if she was playing her role as 'Master' well, but then she remembered that not everything was so bad. After all, Alice was the best, and she could always rely on her in times of need. Once the atmosphere between them became pleasant again, they continued with their respective search tasks for the tea.

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Once again, Mei found herself in a predicament.

After resolving her small altercation with her friend, she found herself pondering why that gift was meant for her, especially considering the significance of today. Unable to help it, an ironic smile briefly lit up her face before being erased as she remembered her parents' warnings about accepting gifts from strangers.

Unfortunately, her curiosity was stronger this time, and she promised it would be the last time she would disobey her dad. "Who could blame her?" she thought to herself. Although she was only 7 years old, perhaps her parents were right to consider her mature enough compared to other children, but the truth was that she also felt the same curiosity as any other child. It wasn't wrong to want to discover the contents of the mysterious gift directed towards her, especially because she felt something compelling her to want to open it every time she looked at it.

In the end, it all turned out to be a gamble.

That thought drove her to carefully remove the protective plastics wrapping the mysterious gift, revealing its contents. In her hands lay a solitary white rose, whose meaning initially puzzled her. However, she could relate it to the first flower her father gave to her mother, a story that had always been special to her. But what truly baffled her was the pendant with an ancient, yet extraordinarily valuable appearance according to her own analysis. The focus was on a large ruby embedded in the pendant, whose deep red glow left her slightly enchanted by its artistic beauty.

"What...?" she found herself bewildered as tears began to emerge uncontrollably. "But... what is happening? I don't understand," she murmured as sadness engulfed her, causing tremors in her being.

"Mei-chan... What's wrong?" She wasn't sure how much time had passed, but she finally became aware of Alice's concerned voice, who had approached her. "Why are you crying? Did you hurt yourself?"

"Humph..." she sighed amidst tears and sobs as she tried to compose herself. Her childish cheeks reddened by the tear streaks, but her attention remained focused on the object.

"It's nothing, Alice-chan," she tried to disguise, quickly wiping her tears with her white gloves, albeit unsuccessfully.

"Is it the pendant?" Alice's hesitant voice inquired as she examined the object.

On the other hand, she found herself questioning why she had reacted that way. Especially because her servant seemed genuinely concerned to the point of having carelessly left her book forgotten hastily in the act to comfort her. Now feeling the warmth of the small violet-eyed girl enveloping her in a comforting hug made her feel a little better.

"It's okay, everything's okay now, Alice-chan," she appreciated the gesture, feeling her friend's warmth. "I don't think this pendant is bad," she declared, clutching the object to her chest. "I don't know how to explain it, but this gift makes me miss dad even more," she admitted with a sigh, trying unsuccessfully to calm down. Her tears began to flow again, but Alice's embrace became more comforting with each one.

"You know you can count on Alice for everything, Mei-chan!" Her friend's reassuring attitude made the sense of loss more bearable, and both remained silent for a few moments, finding solace in each other's presence amidst the loneliness of the room.

"I know, Alice-chan!" she thanked, feeling her friend's hand stroking her hair, reminding her of the comfort she used to receive from her father in difficult times. But her gratitude was interrupted by a sudden outburst of anger. "Hey!" she exclaimed, annoyed after a moment when she realized what was happening, "It's not fair that you take advantage of this moment to take on the role of big sister between us!"

"Look on the bright side!" she gave a victory sign with her fingers, "You've stopped crying now, Mei-chan!" Alice's proud voice, amidst laughter, left the confused but melancholic master speechless. Without a doubt, Alice knew how to switch to a more mature attitude in the most necessary moments, just like now when they ended up laughing together, enjoying a moment of closeness between them.

The birthday girl's heart had been seeking a light called 'hope', longing to leave behind the feeling of loneliness she had been ignoring. The increasing burden of her parents' work responsibilities in recent months had created a constant in her life, but Alice's presence had distracted her from it until that moment.

It was a strange thought, but it was the only thing she could say, something that arose from the depths of her being.

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- Mrs. Fujiwara's Personal Garden, Private Grounds of Yamamoto Mansion -

(Saturday Morning, 10:55 am)

The weather was simply enchanting, with the sun's rays bathing the tea party in a warm, golden light. The two girls were enjoying this well-deserved outdoor break, nestled in a soft, comforting blanket.

Surrounding them, the garden was adorned with a variety of lush flowers and carefully arranged gardening decorations, creating a tranquil and relaxed setting in this private area of the mansion.

As the pair of friends savored delicious desserts, gazing at the clouds floating overhead in a clear blue sky, they were enveloped in comfortable silence, each lost in their own thoughts.

The young ojou-sama held her cup elegantly, savoring every sip of the aromatic tea before placing it back on her saucer. Her steady breath mingled with the gentle whisper of the wind, which delicately brushed the leaves of nearby trees.

"It would be wonderful if it could always be this pleasant," whispered Mei, letting her thoughts drift in the calm that surrounded them.

"I want more cassis macarons and a giant slice of strawberry cake, please!"

Her friend's cheerful voice snapped her out of her reverie, turning her attention back to the girl who had quickly finished her own desserts.

"Alice-chan, this is the third time you've depleted our reserves!" Mei tried to point out her friend's issue with her obsession with desserts. "It's not healthy to overeat!"

"But... Mei-chan," Alice looked at her with pleading eyes, causing Mei to once again give in to her whims. "Your dad's desserts are just so delicious!"

"I know, I can't argue with that," Mei conceded, though she looked at her friend with a mix of frustration and amusement. "But this is the last time... understood?"

"I adore you, Mei-chan!" Alice's response rang out with joy, making the master smile satisfied with how everything was unfolding up to that point. The bond between them was strengthening with each interaction, making that day in the garden a special memory they would cherish for a long time.

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At first, when they arrived at the place, both friends were immersed in experiencing a moment of pure joy and happiness, just as they had planned since the morning after breakfast.

"Let's play together!" Alice's eager invitation showed her childlike innocence and readiness to seize the day, infecting Mei with her enthusiasm.

"Of course, it's only fair that we have some fun!" Mei replied, ready for any challenge her unexpected friend might throw at her. "Just hope you're ready to lose this time, Alice-chan!"

"It's not fair, Mei-chan!" The violet-eyed girl's childish pouts looked at her reproachfully. "It's Alice's turn to pick the game this time!"

"Okay," she sighed, realizing she wouldn't be able to take the upper hand this time. However, all was not lost. "Just hope you're not a sore loser, okay?"

Her friend looked at her with some doubt before smiling. "Yes, Alice promises!" Holding her book in the air with a self-satisfied pose, she made a victorious gesture. "So, let the games begin!"

And so, both friends delved into moments of endless fun, each adding their own rules on the fly to add more laughter and an extra sense of competition. However, despite any challenges, they both kept up with the games, knowing they were in the company of their most loyal and best friend.

And thus, another day full of promises of adventure and fun began, where a pair of friends maintained the spark of friendship as they had done for the past six months between them. Every shared moment so far only strengthened their bond, making them an unstoppable team when it came to letting their imagination soar and becoming each other's confidante.

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At first, amidst their games, Mei had created a simple illusion to make it appear from the outside that she was enjoying a peaceful nap in her mother's serene personal garden. However, in reality, both friends were soaring through the skies, using Nursery Rhyme's special magic. They amused themselves with chase games, competing to see who could fly faster and engaging in an aerial version of tag, which quickly left them exhausted but filled with excitement and laughter.

After an hour, they decided to change the nature of the bounded field; now they created the illusion that Mei was enjoying a moment of indulgence, savoring desserts and elegantly sipping tea amidst a quiet solo tea party. However, the reality was that Alice had been delighting in the desserts, much to Mei's delight, who enjoyed her friend's complicity.

Though at this point Mei felt drowsy, she forced herself to open her eyes, surprised to see Alice approaching with a strawberry covered in a bit of cream.

"Open wide, Mei-chan, here comes the airplane!" Her friend's sudden playfulness caught her off guard, but she decided to go along with it. After all, there was no one around to judge her for being "childish," and that freedom made them feel closer to each other than ever.

This was just one of the many moments they shared as kindred spirits during their tea parties. Sometimes, they introduced changes into the routine, while on other occasions, they devoted themselves to experimenting with 'Onmyōdō' magic or creating new games with their servant's unique magic. But they could always guarantee that fun was in store when both girls joined forces to turn their day into something fresh and wonderful. Each adventure strengthened their bond, turning them into inseparable accomplices in a world full of magic and fun.

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(Saturday Morning, 11:55 am)

Despite the beauty of the garden surrounding her, Mei felt a bit drowsy at that moment. "I don't think we overdid it this time, right, Alice-chan?" Her voice, laden with tiredness, betrayed her obviously affected state by the sudden lethargy.

"Alice-chan?" she asked again, but could only glance sideways as her friend decided to forge ahead and take a well-deserved nap after all the fun, sheltering herself under the shade of a blossoming cherry tree. "So typical of her," she sighed amusedly amidst yawns, watching as a drool thread escaped from the corner of her friend's lips.

"If I had more energy, I'd love to play a prank on her by doodling on her face," she felt tempted by the idea, but immediately dismissed it for lack of will.

Caught in an in-between state of reality and the world of dreams, little Mei found herself trapped amidst the midday haze.

At first, everything had proceeded ordinarily, but subtle changes silently took place, like their forgotten teacups, with a delicate aroma and steaming, had vanished into thin air. The atmosphere filled with an inexplicable coldness, simultaneously being swept by an unnatural heat, yet at the same time, with a magical sensation hinting at a snowstorm, momentarily shifting the perspective to endless sand dunes with a subtle smell of sulfur.

Amidst these changes, the girl had ignored all of this, getting lost in her childish but satisfying thoughts before falling into a deep slumber. Each sigh mingled with the changing environment, further immersing her in the magical atmosphere that seemed to envelop her.

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(Saturday Morning, 11:59 am)

"I've been thinking about my parents again," she admitted with a hint of resignation, lowering her head, while longing for the evening to arrive so she could enjoy her party when her parents and school friends would finally come to congratulate her. "But we'll be together soon," she smiled, completely dispelling that negative thought. "I just hope Alice-chan doesn't play too many pranks on my cousin Mikan-chan this time," she added with a laugh, imagining how she would explain having "borrowed" the red ribbon her godmother Kaguya had given her. Playing that prank had always become a classic at their gatherings.

Unfortunately, Mei was so tired at that moment that she hadn't been aware that the "ruby pendant" she was wearing, a gift she had received, showed signs of a faint glow that had reacted with the vibrant-colored book adorned with Nursery Rhyme fairy tales.

The owner of the book, needless to say, had been unconscious for so long, though there might be the possibility that, even if she were awake, she would have overlooked those details. At this point, none of that mattered because no one witnessed how both of their bodies were eventually surrounded by a halo of completely crimson light, with intermittent silver flashes that reached a peak as time passed.

At that moment, a gentle breeze stirred everything around them, revealing a multitude of weapons scattered haphazardly, which shimmered for a moment as if in response to Mei's wishes. Simultaneously, all the pages of the fairy tale book were mysteriously torn away by the breeze, caressing the faces of both girls, completely asleep and unaware of this phenomenon. The scene was imbued with a mysterious and captivating aura, as if it were weaving the beginning of an unexpected adventure.

(Saturday Afternoon, 12:00 pm)

Chapter Text

¡Greetings everyone, KaleidoMirror is back! It's been a while since our last interaction, but I trust that the time we've spent apart has been worthwhile for all.

I'm thrilled to present to you the long-awaited Chapter 3 of our saga, "Echo of the Seasons." In this installment, mystery intertwines with drama, especially as I aim to leave you at the edge of intrigue and excitement by the end. Additionally, I'm eager to hear your opinions and feedback on this new release. Please don't hesitate to share your thoughts, either through online comments or by contacting me directly.

Moving on to our regular segment, I want to express my great enthusiasm and appreciation for masterpieces such as "Kaguya-sama: Love Is War" and "Fate/Stay Night." I sincerely thank you all for giving me the opportunity to share my work with you. I hope you find as much pleasure in reading this story as I did in writing it.

Are you ready?

Enjoy it!

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- Unknown Setting -

It was difficult to explain the situation Yamamoto Mei found herself in.

Upon awakening, the young ojou-sama found herself immersed in an unfamiliar landscape, far from her mother's private gardens or the familiar grounds of the Yamamoto estate. Despite having traveled through certain countries with her parents during summer vacations, she had never hesitated to accompany her godmother and aunts on their excursions. Not to mention her grandparents who spared no expense in indulging her with their constant requests. However, nothing she saw resembled the places she had visited before.

This new environment before her challenged all known logic.

Which was saying a lot for her, considering that ever since her servant, Nursery Rhyme, had entered her life, they had shared countless adventures. At times, they would frolic among fairy tales, while at others, they would spontaneously invent new children's stories to experience within their usual dreams.

It was almost hypnotic to behold the endless dunes of the desert stretching out to her left, disappearing into the horizon, while to her right, a sea of snow rose and disappeared into the distance. Between both landscapes, a dark line, sprinkled with golden glimmers, marked an abrupt division that caused a subtle ache in Mei when she stared at it for too long, hence her decision to not dwell on it for the moment.

Despite the peculiarity of the place, Mei sensed a familiar feeling, as if she had been there before in some corner of her mind. For now, she decided not to let the perplexing scene overwhelm her and instead set out to explore this new territory she found herself in. Time passed slowly, but as she glanced skyward, she noted the peculiarity of it being partially fragmented, yet she remained fixated on the presence of huge monolithic gears suspended between the clouds, inert, unable to turn.

"Hmph," a sigh escaped her lips, resigned to the magnitude of what lay before her. For a moment, the idea of exploring the place in depth crossed her mind, but the heat of the desert and the cold breeze of the snow sea colliding stopped her dead in her tracks. Mei frowned, feeling a mixture of amazement and bewilderment. A series of questions invaded her mind without offering a clear answer. Where exactly was she? How had she ended up there? Why did it feel both familiar and alien?

"This is... simply incredible," she whispered to herself, letting her words dissipate into the air, much like the questions that tormented her. She observed the landscape with a lump in her throat, trying to find an explanation for her situation. "Why does this place seem so desolate? Is it perhaps another nightmare, or maybe a game concocted by Alice-chan to settle scores?" she wondered aloud, though more to reassure herself than to get a clear answer.

She tried to ignore the tumult of emotions threatening to overflow within her, seeking to maintain composure amidst the uncertainty. However, her eyes betrayed her apparent calm as they moistened, and silent tears slowly traversed her cheeks, disappearing into the vast and silent scene that surrounded her.

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Time passed with an almost palpable slowness, as if each second weighed heavier than the last.

But the ojou-sama clung to reality amidst that bewildering and ever-changing landscape. Feeling increasingly disoriented, with a sense of emptiness engulfing her. It was like being trapped in a dream from which she couldn't awaken.

Deep within her, a small spark of hope flickered. She longed with all her heart to see her parents again, to return to the warm and familiar home where they used to share magical moments, amid the laughter brought on by her mother's usual jokes, and she even wished to spend more time under her father's teachings in the dojo.

As she reflected on her situation, Mei noticed something unsettling: the connection with her servant, that constant presence that had accompanied her in moments of solitude and difficulty, was slowly fading away. A shiver of panic ran down her spine as she realized she was completely alone in this strange and shifting environment.

"Nursery Rhyme! Are you there?" her voice echoed with desperation, but it was only met by the empty echo of the place. "Please, tell me you're alright!" she shouted again, but the silence that followed was overwhelming, filling the air with a sense of abandonment and desolation.

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Each faltering step Mei took seemed to draw her closer to the abyss of uncertainty. She longed desperately for it all to end, unaware of the subtle changes unfolding around her. Suddenly, a faint creak echoed behind her, causing her to swiftly turn, alert to the unknown.

A soft, melodious laughter broke the silence, drawing her attention to an ethereal figure materializing before her eyes. It was a woman of elegant and mysterious demeanor, with exquisite curves and an imposing bosom that stood out in the dim light.

Mei hesitated before responding, keeping her guard up.

It was strange, but her attention remained on the woman's pale skin barely exposed, and her long brown hair divided into multiple supernaturally curly strands. Mei felt strangely drawn to the woman's purple eyes, vaguely familiar to her, not to mention the blue and purple orbs adorning her with cat ear-shaped ribbons, conveying a sense of tranquility.

Feeling nervous, she tried to assess the intentions behind the woman's sudden appearance. Unexpectedly, the woman took a step forward, causing the fringe over her forehead to move with a déjà vu sensation that confused her emotions, and unable to help it, she murmured under the expectant yet mysterious gaze, "Mom?"

"Ara~, Ara~!" the lady seemed to find the misunderstanding amusing, and a look of complicity appeared on her face. "My dear little flower, I'm sorry to disappoint you, but I am not your mother," the woman knelt to her height, looking at her gently, "However, I am deeply sorry that our first meeting takes place under these circumstances," her response was graceful as she unfolded a dark and purple-colored umbrella in an obvious attempt to protect her from the inclement weather.

"Who are you?" Mei asked, her voice barely more than a whisper but with a tone mixed with nervousness and curiosity intensified by the woman's unsettling presence before her.

The stranger responded with an enigmatic smile, her eyes shining with deep mystery. "I am merely a 'spectator' in this little drama, but our lives are intertwined in a way that surpasses your understanding," she murmured, her voice carried by the breeze.

Mei frowned, trying to decipher the woman's enigmatic words. A feeling of familiarity bubbled within her, confusing her. It was as if she had known this woman in some corner of her memory, but she couldn't recall it.

"What do you mean by 'spectator'? What is happening here?"

The woman smiled gracefully, moving with a supernatural elegance, stepping back a bit from Mei in a subtle dance of Japanese movements. "Your journey is just beginning, Yamamoto Mei. It is regrettable that on such a special day as your birthday, you find yourself trapped in the midst of such a problematic situation. But not all is lost, my dear. It is also an opportunity for you to become aware of why you are so special," she said, unfolding a fan with an elegant gesture as the surroundings blurred around them. "Although we have little time, there is still much to learn, much to discover."

Mei took a step back, feeling her body giving in to the approaching unconsciousness, while she listened to the woman's whispering voice and more questions piled up in her mind. What did all this mean? And who was this mysterious woman who seemed to know her so well?

"I'm sorry, but I don't understand," she stammered, struggling to stay upright as her right leg refused to support her.

The enigmatic lady tilted her head, her fringe moving slightly in the breeze. "All will be revealed in due time, Mei-chan. For now, you'll have to forgive my lack of manners. For now, you just have to follow your heart forward."

With those words, the figure disappeared in the same way she had arrived, leaving her alone once again in that strange and changing landscape, completely immersed in a new dream with more questions than answers lurking in the shadows.

___________________________________________________________

Mei woke up with a clouded mind, still dazed by what she had just experienced.

The young ojou-sama tried to clear her thoughts, blinking a couple of times until she convinced herself that she was once again in a completely new place. It took her a few minutes to adjust, but the feeling of bewilderment persisted.

Why was all this happening to her? What had she done to deserve it? Amidst so many questions, it was inevitable that she would have a small nervous breakdown that left her deeply analyzing her discouraging situation.

Above all, because from the very moment she regained consciousness, she was aware of a subtle aroma permeating the air, reminiscent of places where magic flourishes in its fullness, yet perfectly combined with ink, giving it an extra sense of familiarity.

At first glance, the place seemed to have been torn from the pages of a fairy tale, with its enchanted landscape and enigmatic atmosphere. But she soon deduced that she was in some kind of library, albeit different from any she had seen before. Nevertheless, the soft light filtering through the tall windows bathed the space in an ethereal serenity, bestowing upon it an aura of mystery and stillness.

Upon closer inspection, Mei observed that the dark wooden shelves were overflowing with ancient volumes and scrolls, some covered in dust and others freshly bound with care.

___________________________________________________________

– Common Library –

Yamamoto was taken aback by the laughter and meows that unexpectedly filled the room. To her surprise, Alice emerged from among the nearby shelves, engrossed in an animated game with a black cat, absentmindedly petting it and receiving an affectionate response from the feline.

The familiarity between them was evident, especially in the way she allowed herself to be pampered in her servant's arms, experiencing the infamous "bubbling tickles," of which she could attest to the devastating effect they could have if she truly managed to anger her friend.

Nursery Rhyme, noticing her master regaining consciousness, submerged herself in a sea of emotions and leaped, propelled by her magic, to fly and end up landing on her friend, in a rather emotional moment that ended in laughter and hugs at their reunion. The cat, sensing the girl's actions, jumped out of her arms, deciding to stay on a nearby table, observing all the interaction between the girls.

"Mei-chan! Mei-chan! It's about time you woke up!" Alice's voice rang out with a mix of calmness and joy, radiating happiness around her. "Alice thought you were trying to be the new sleeping princess!"

"Clearly, that's not the case," she joked amidst intermittent laughter, still feeling fatigued. "It's just that apparently, I was a bit more tired than I remember," trying to regain composure, she observed Nursery Rhyme's emotional display. "It's nothing, really, I'm fine," she attempted to reassure her, though her friend didn't seem convinced.

Alice approached her friend, standing face to face. "Are you sure you don't need anything?" There was a brief silence between them until she decided to ask again, her tone betraying genuine concern. "Because Alice feels that..."

"Alice-chan," Mei interrupted abruptly. "I just had a little fainting spell, nothing to worry about really." It was just a moment, but it was no surprise to her that she ended up being embraced by her friend with such intensity. For now, she simply sighed at the emotions she felt for her best friend, letting herself be carried away by the guilt of speaking to her so abruptly. After all, she was just trying to comfort her. "I'm so sorry for worrying you, really, but I'm fine, I promise," she assured, still feeling guilty but trying to shift the conversation's focus and rearrange her thoughts. "What I don't understand is what happened. I'm quite concerned. What happened before I regained consciousness?"

Nursery Rhyme, with a mixture of palpable relief and concern still evident in her violet eyes, maintained her smile, using gestures to explain everything that had happened so far. "You know? Alice was so worried! She woke up and didn't find you, but Neko-chan told me everything would be fine. Alice knew she shouldn't trust strangers, but she promised me that when you woke up, she would talk to you to give us more details."

"Ma'am?" Mei asked, confused, as she watched the cat approach them. "Who are you referring to?"

"I don't know much about her, but she's really beautiful," Alice asserted, catching the cat that jumped towards her. The cat's meows expressed its happiness at being attended to in that way. "Alice didn't talk with her for long because she seemed very busy writing on a huge scroll, but she mentioned she would talk to you later. It's curious, but it seemed like she knew a lot about you, Mei-chan. Even now, I feel that by the way she talked to me about you, it was evident that she appreciated you a lot."

As she listened to her servant speak, Mei took a moment to stroke the cat's fur in her friend's arms, feeling its softness under her fingers and admiring the deep color of its eyes: a deep purple, similar to those of the woman in her dreams. She was completely captivated until she heard the last part, feeling dizzy and on the verge of fainting from the abrupt change in the conversation.

"Did something happen?" Alice asked, confused by what had just occurred.

"It's nothing," Mei replied, a little weary but remaining steadfast. "I just need a moment to fully recover," she leaned back a little more on the couch against her friend's shoulders, feeling a comforting warmth in her presence.

"Are you sure?" Rhyme gently squeezed her hand in an attempt to comfort her. "We can call someone if you're feeling unwell or... well, anything you need, just say it."

"Thank you, but it's not necessary," the master returned the pressure of the hand while shaking her head gently. "I'm fine, really."

"You know I'll always be here for you, Mei-chan, okay?"

Mei nodded with a smile, taking a deep breath. "Thank you, Alice-chan. That means a lot to me."

For a few moments, Mei found herself enjoying her friend's company until her eyes wandered to the purple collar the cat was wearing, and a spark of curiosity shone in her gaze. "This collar is very beautiful, but it seems... familiar somehow."

Alice also glanced at the collar for a moment, as if seeing it for the first time, then smiled knowingly. "Oh, this collar... it also caught Alice's attention when she saw it because it has a special reason for Alice." She tenderly stroked the cat as she continued, "Because it's the same color as her mistress's eyes!".

___________________________________________________________

Mei found herself immersed in a whirlwind of conflicting thoughts upon hearing Alice's words. As she tried to process what she had just heard, the cat resting between them gracefully stretched, emitting a soft meow that seemed to carry a hidden message in its deep purple eyes. A shiver ran down her spine as if the feline were trying to communicate with her in some mysterious way.

"What a great idea, Neko-chan!" exclaimed Alice with infectious enthusiasm. "Mei-chan, the little one wants us to follow him."

The ojou-sama blinked, surprised by her friend's sudden ability to speak with cats. "Since when can you communicate with them, Alice-chan?" Her curious tone betrayed her unyielding curiosity as she watched her friend float, attempting to hide her mocking expression. But she kept thinking about the strange suggestion from the animal. "Are you sure he wants us to follow him?" she asked, feeling a mixture of excitement and nervousness.

"I wouldn't know how to explain it, but I somehow understand him," defended the servant, maintaining a proud posture despite her diminutive size. "That doesn't matter now. We must follow him, Mei!" she added, taking her friend's hand with determination. "He's eager to lead us to his owner!"

"But..."

"Mei-chan, you don't have to doubt. Trust me, Neko-chan is sincere," insisted her friend with determination, dispelling the last shadows of uncertainty in her mind. With a firm gesture, the master stood up and squeezed her friend's hand, letting herself be guided by the small feline. It led them persistently, glancing back at them over its shoulder to make sure they were following.

They traversed long corridors and ascended spiral staircases, immersed in a world of mystery and enchantment. Finally, they arrived at a golden door that seemed to merge with the magic of the place itself. Mei and her friend looked at each other hesitantly, but the persistent meowing of the cat encouraged them to proceed. With a slight creak, the door gave way, revealing a room that seemed to have been torn from the pages of a fairy tale.

___________________________________________________________

– Garden of Forgotten Dreams –

Mei was enveloped in a strange sensation the moment she crossed the threshold into that place. A comforting calm embraced her instantly, and as she regulated her breathing, she was captivated by the beauty that surrounded her.

"It's amazing, isn't it?" whispered Alice, her voice barely audible. Although she often showed her childish side, at that moment, she was aware of the serenity of the environment.

Mei nodded, relishing the scent of flowers in the air. "It is!" she exclaimed, her admiration blending with the soft rustle of the wind through the leaves.

Now, the two friends found themselves immersed in a garden overflowing with lush, blooming flowers. In the center stood a majestic, ancient tree, its twisted branches reaching towards the radiant blue sky, illuminating the scene as petals danced to the rhythm of the wind among the intricate engravings on its trunk. A soft, golden light seemed to emanate from the tree itself, filling the air with a magical and enchanting atmosphere.

Both were spellbound by the panorama, unable to articulate words in the face of the astonishing nature surrounding them.

Alice smiled, being the first to break the pleasant silence they shared, her eyes shining with excitement. "It's simply beautiful!" she said, reaching out a hand to try to pet the cat at her feet, but it skillfully evaded her hands. "Hey, where do you think you're going?" Despite her best efforts, the cat fled, deciding to find a comfortable spot at the foot of the tree. "Come back here!" she continued protesting childishly, but failing in her attempts to reach it.

The girl with golden orbs, for her part, enjoyed watching the struggle between her friend and the cat for a moment before turning her attention back to the tree. "What do you think all this means?" she asked in a low voice, watching as Rhyme finally gave up, pouting with crocodile tears.

"It's not fair that Neko-chan left us like this," the servant complained, shrugging with sorrow while exaggerating her sad state. However, she quickly decided to change her focus and began to pace around the place, exhaling smoke through her nose in an attempt to suppress her anger. "But Alice won't just sit idly by without a fight!"

"Whatever it is," Mei sighed, tired of the drama, knowing where all this was heading, but also suppressing her slightly sarcastic sense of humor. She blamed her father to some extent for this little slip. "You should let it go, I think the little one just wants a moment alone, what do you think?" she said, rolling her eyes in an attempt to calm her down, but only partially succeeding, because deep down she knew that Alice still wasn't giving up on the idea of chasing the cat.

"But... but... I just wanted to..."

"Alright... alright... you shouldn't feel sad," the ojou-sama approached her friend, placing a hand on her shoulder, "You just need to give him time to come back, you'll see."

"Are you sure?" Alice's doubtful expression made her reconsider the matter.

"100% sure," confirmed the girl with golden orbs steadfastly, "After all, we still don't know why he brought us here."

Rhyme glanced sideways at the tree, trying to spot the cat, but he was nowhere to be found nearby; after seeming to contemplate it for a moment, she decided to accept it despite her dissatisfaction, "You're right, Mei-chan," she trusted, as only she could, in her master's words, spinning around the nearby sunflowers amidst dances and laughter, calming her turbulent emotions with her usual cheerful and explosive tone. "After all, I love this garden!"

A soft laughter slipped from Mei's lips, confirming her internal thoughts. She felt taken aback when her friend intertwined their hands, attempting to widen her smile. She let herself be carried away by Alice's game, allowing the serenity of the place to envelop her.

"I think it would be wonderful to explore a little more of this enchanted garden, don't you think?" she suggested, as she let herself be carried away by the serene atmosphere.

"I think it's a brilliant idea!" exclaimed Alice, releasing their hands and beginning to float with a golden glow surrounding her, determined to explore every corner of the place to delight her companion.

Meanwhile, Mei approached the tree slowly, feeling the serenity completely enveloping her. She looked up at the branches swaying gently in the breeze, and she knew that this adventure was only just beginning.

___________________________________________________________

With hesitant steps, she approached the tree, her heart pounding with a mix of excitement and fear. Timidly, she reached out her hand towards the rough bark, feeling the rough texture beneath her fingers. The moment her skin touched the tree, a strange current seemed to run through her body, enveloping her in an almost electric sensation, yet warm and comforting at the same time.

___________________________________________________________

As Mei opened her eyes, she found herself engulfed in darkness, but immediately she was swept away by a powerful current, feeling the water exerting relentless pressure against her weary body, dragging her towards an abyss whose depth was impossible to discern.

Her heart pounded fiercely, the sound reverberating in her ears, mingling with the roar of the wild and unrestrained water surrounding her, making her feel trapped in a whirlwind of desperation. A startled "gulp" escaped her lips as she struggled to stay afloat, panic seizing her with every gulp of water she swallowed.

Every aggressive movement generated bubbles of air that escaped vigorously, and though she struggled desperately, she felt the darkness inexorably consuming her. "I'm going to die," she thought, resigning herself to the seemingly inevitable fate.

Suddenly, a glimmer of hope emerged in the form of a mysterious light shining in the distance. Mei gritted her teeth, her survival instinct immediately kicking in, with her determination burning brighter than ever, she began to swim towards the light, each stroke an act of defiance against the darkness threatening to engulf her.

The water churned around her, the current seeming to drag her back with each attempt to move forward, but Mei refused to give up. In her mind, the smiling images of her parents waiting for her at home intertwined with her feelings, infusing her with the strength and courage she needed to persevere.

"I have to keep going," she told herself, pressing forward with one final effort towards her destination, defying the feeling of suffocation and exhaustion, driven by the fervent desire to reunite with her family once again.

As she swam towards the light, a soft, melodious voice broke the silence. "Are you okay?"

Mei felt confused by the unexpected question. How could someone be speaking to her in the midst of this dark and silent abyss? Unfortunately, she couldn't respond, as her consciousness was on the verge of collapse. The voice continued to resonate in her mind as her body was caressed by a gentle sea breeze amidst flashes of light that grew increasingly intense.

___________________________________________________________

– Ocean of Memories –

Mei found herself in a state of confusion at first, her body still trembling from the traumatic experience she had just lived through. Fragments of terrifying memories invaded her mind as she struggled to understand what had happened. With her heart pounding fiercely, she tried to organize her thoughts, having no idea who had rescued her or how she had ended up there.

After making an effort to push aside her murky thoughts, she was amazed by the dazzling landscape that stretched out before her.

It was as if she were submerged in a dream, surrounded by a tranquil ocean full of vibrant colors and strange sea creatures gracefully swimming around her, illuminated by luminous flashes emanating from their bodies in the crystal-clear water.

The surreal beauty left her speechless, momentarily forgetting her initial distress. "Wow!" she exclaimed involuntarily, though quickly covering her mouth with her hand, surprised to realize she could breathe perfectly underwater. Despite the strange circumstances she found herself in, a sense of childlike curiosity and wonder overtook her, keeping her absorbed as she briefly enjoyed the unique spectacle before her eyes.

"What kind of magical place is this?" she wondered nervously, cautiously exploring her surroundings. However, her distraction led her to not notice that a whale-like creature was approaching her. Its calm behavior suggested it had no malicious intentions, but rather curiosity about her presence in that place.

"Hello?" Mei attempted to speak, surprised to hear her own voice echoing clearly underwater. The strange creature seemed to show some degree of intelligence, keeping its movements slow as it swam alongside her. Though initially nervous, she soon relaxed as the creature emitted a soft murmur, as if trying to communicate.

"What are you?" Mei whispered, captivated by the nonverbal communication flowing between them.

The creature emitted another melodious sound that resonated in the surrounding water, and Mei felt as if it was trying to convey emotions rather than words. Though initially intimidated by the creature's large size, sensing no threat, she decided to follow her instincts.

"Wow, despite your imposing size, you have such a curious personality!" she commented with a mischievous smile. "You know, you remind me so much of my best friend," she added with a laugh, imagining Alice's reaction in a situation like this. However, the idea quickly faded as absurd.

"But seriously, this place is simply incredible," she reflected aloud, but only received gentle movements and melodious sounds in response. "Hey, cut it out!" she exclaimed amidst laughter as she felt the bubbles of air produced by her new friend, which caressed her skin, creating endless tickles.

"You're naughty!" her words only seemed to further stimulate the animal. "In the end, you just want to scare me!" although a part of her wondered where exactly she was without knowing if all of this was a dream or if it was part of reality, she decided to set aside the doubts and simply immerse herself in this magical experience amidst uncontrollable laughter.

But despite the moment of joy, she began to distinguish between the bursts of bubbles what seemed to be fragments of images that quickly flashed before her, creating certain doubts as she had a better view of them. This fact only increased her curiosity as she noticed what seemed to be a story that the creature was trying to communicate to her.

"It's like I'm seeing the past," she marveled at this discovery as she glimpsed the figure of her father, or at least a younger version of him. "But why do I feel like not everything is as mom used to tell me in her stories?" Despite her amazement, a shadow of skepticism arose in her mind with each new image, questioning the accuracy of the stories her mother used to tell her. As she watched, she felt increasingly mentally exhausted, delving deeper into that ocean of memories.

On the other hand, the memory of her traumatic experience in the depths of the sea resurfaced with overwhelming clarity, reliving the moment when darkness enveloped her and her consciousness faded. However, this time, accompanying that memory was a comforting sensation, the warmth of a bright light enveloping her, offering her comfort and security amid the despair.

With gratitude shining in her eyes, Mei approached the mysterious creature, her heart timidly beating in her chest as she formulated the question that haunted her: "Was it you who saved me?" The creature responded with a gentle nod, and Mei felt a lump in her throat as she understood the magnitude of that act of kindness she had received.

Letting her words fade into the vastness of the ocean, Mei wrapped her arms around the huge creature in an attempt to give it a tender hug. "Thank you," her voice trembling as she expressed her gratitude. "Truly, thank you very much," she murmured, letting the warmth flood her being as anxiety faded away amidst the current of emotions that overwhelmed her as she caressed the soft, luminous skin of her savior.

___________________________________________________________

– Boundary between the Shadow of the Void Tree & the Ocean of Memories –

Mei woke with a start, once again finding herself submerged in the vast ocean of memories. However, this time, a soft twilight enveloped her surroundings, creating an ethereal and mysterious atmosphere.

"Is anyone there?" she whispered uncertainly, but only the echo of her own voice answered her. "Anyone?" In the distance, the gentle whisper of the sea echoed like an ancient melancholic song.

She rubbed her eyes with her hands, trying to dispel the fog still clouding her mind after waking up. As she searched for answers in her surroundings, she shouted into the air with great force, "Where are you, little friend? Please respond!" Her voice trailed off into a whisper, "I don't like being alone!" Her words were lost amidst the complex sensations that enveloped her, like tumultuous waves.

"Mei."

A voice, barely a whisper in the twilight, snapped her out of her reverie. Mei reached out her hands, but it seemed like she was swimming against an invisible current, her movements hindered by a strange fatigue and disorientation.

"Mei-chan..." The voice repeated, clearer this time, though she still couldn't discern its origin. It felt vaguely familiar, but she couldn't remember from where.

"Who's there?" she asked aloud, but silence persisted.

However, at that moment, a comforting warmth began to spread from the center of her chest. Various emotions, ranging from joy to sadness, intermittently enveloped her.

"What is this?" she wondered with a lump in her throat, startled by the intensity of the sensations flooding her. It was as if a gentle electric current ran through her, making her shiver delicately but steadily.

In the vibrant pulsation of energy, a soft, melodious laughter seemed to add a touch of charm to the scene.

"How delightful it is to meet you again, Mei-chan."

"It's you again!" she whispered, surprised by the sudden ethereal presence of a beautiful woman, her impression almost causing her to stumble, but her quick reflexes prevented a comical scene.

The figure smiled tenderly at the completely embarrassed girl, but mentally apologized for being the reason behind her confusion and surprise.

"Yes, my dear flower. You look as radiant as the first time I saw you!" Her words were imbued with a comforting tone that gradually dispelled the girl's initial bewilderment. "Do you still remember our previous encounter?"

Mei struggled for a moment to reconstruct the scattered fragments of her now calmer memory. "I'm sorry, I can't remember clearly. Everything seems so confusing to me, miss."

The woman nodded understandingly. "Don't worry, it's natural to feel this way. This mysterious place tends to distort our memories and allows our souls to interact in mysterious ways beyond our own plane of existence, which can be truly worrisome if you get lost without knowing the established limits. You could really find yourself in a very dangerous situation," she explained with a tone of warning.

Mei frowned at the enigmatic words, but kept her composure. "I don't understand. What do you mean by 'this place'?" Her curiosity now mixed with a touch of intrigue, "Is it really so dangerous to be here?"

The female figure approached gracefully, stopping in front of her, with a penetrating gaze that seemed to read deep into her soul: "Indeed, my little one. But we'll have time to talk in detail another time," she replied, avoiding going into further details about the place. She elegantly extended a hand, gracefully waving a fan. "For now, there are more pressing matters to attend to, like why you are here."

"Is there a reason?" Mei asked bewildered. "Forgive my skepticism, but it's hard to believe in all of this," her hands trembled slightly. "But this defies all logic, especially because I don't understand what you're really trying to tell me with all this," at this point her heart was pounding, a mix of anxiety stirring in her chest.

The woman nodded sympathetically, her expression softening with a mix of sympathy and complicity. "Ara, ara~!" nevertheless, she seemed to enjoy playing with the innocent yet captivating expressions of the young girl before her. "As a lover of poetry and written words, I am captivated by people's feelings."

"Is that part of a passage from the sacred books written by Abe no Seimei?" Mei asked, her voice trembling with surprise. For her part, the woman let out a melodious laugh and once again gracefully waved her hand in a kind of performance, as if accustomed to this kind of reaction.

"Oh, dear Mei-chan, there is much more to this world than you think," she replied with a tone full of mystery. "And I, as a 'spectator', intertwined with you by the threads of destiny, have access to information that might surprise you."

Mei felt frustrated by the wordplay and riddles she was receiving. Was she some kind of seer or Onmyōdō sorceress? Or was she just playing with her?; Although the expression on the lady's face was partially hidden behind her fan, the mystery surrounding her only increased with each word she spoke.

Despite her initial confusion, she took a deep breath, trying to calm herself in the face of the strange situation she found herself in. As a Yamamoto, she was expected to maintain composure, capable of responding gracefully even in this "situation," despite the perceived petulant and even insulting tone between the lines.

"Do you realize how impolite it is to appear and disappear so abruptly and without introducing oneself?" she expressed, partially releasing her irritation, feeling slighted and deprived of the courtesy she expected from this encounter.

She briefly recalled their previous encounter and even felt impressed by the aura the woman emanated, to the point of confusing her with her mother. Yet, now, in this situation, the woman was entirely different. Since her appearance, she had never formally introduced herself. Nevertheless, despite all this, she attempted to exhibit behavior befitting a young lady of her age.

Finding solace amidst the woman's disregard and jests, she decided to maintain grace and amiability. Much of this was due to her mother's teachings. Additionally, she enjoyed showcasing the virtue of a noble heart, inspired by the qualities of her father, which she aspired to attain. Hence, she chose to address the situation with sufficient grace and diplomacy.

"To begin, I am Yamamoto Mei. I request your care," she said, elegantly approaching the woman. "It's a pleasure to meet you, unknown miss, but I would like to know your name, if you don't mind."

The mysterious lady sighed with a certain resignation before responding with a bow befitting her aristocratic bearing. "Oh... this is interesting," she exclaimed, finding the situation highly entertaining. "So, this is how it works now, isn't it?" Though still somewhat skeptical, she was surprised by the refined and courageous gaze of the young girl before her.

"I don't quite understand what you mean, but as far as I'm concerned, you've presented yourself as a woman lacking manners and common sense," Mei sighed with a hint of weariness, trying to conceal her discomfort behind a mask of courtesy.

"Oh my goodness, oh my goodness!" The mysterious lady only managed to smile behind her fan, though she was fully aware of the harsh words from the girl. "You may bear the Yamamoto surname from Shirou-san, it's quite amusing how you try to maintain the distinctive bearing of an 'Emiya'. It's been a while since I last saw him, but he has certainly outdone himself with you. Unfortunately, that can't erase your roots, Mei-chan."

The enigmatic woman approached Mei, gazing deeply into her golden orbs before gently taking a strand of her silver hair. "It's curious how seamlessly the Fujiwara lineage you possess has adapted. No wonder you belong to the main branch!" she murmured as she delicately rearranged Mei's hair. "Your mother, Chika Fujiwara, has clearly pampered and indulged you, from what I've seen."

Mei felt paralyzed, trying to decipher the woman's words, but she simply couldn't grasp why she seemed to know her parents, especially since she was looking at her in a way that defied expression in words. As she looked into the woman's purple orbs, she felt a kind of connection that left her bewildered, especially by the unexpected mention of her lineage.

"How do you know my father's true surname?" Mei murmured, unable to resist as the woman arranged her hair. "And how do you know I belong to the Fujiwara family? My parents have never mentioned you before. I'm sure you have nothing to do with my family!" Her face was like an open book at this point as she ranted with anger. "But especially, how do you know my mother's name?"

The woman nodded, her smile still hidden behind the fan. "Roots run deep, Mei-chan. Sometimes, those connections define us more than we realize."

Mei lowered her gaze, contemplating the woman's play on words and hidden intentions. Her mind raced, trying to find answers to so many questions, wondering what else her family might be hiding, what stories and secrets lay in the shadows of her past.

Attempting to back away a bit, Mei felt her body freeze in place, noticing how the lady held a strand of her hair in her hands. Despite feeling a profound fear at the unexpected turn in their conversation, she was an Emiya, so she would stand firm and try not to show weakness.

"I sense a suitable change in my mood, hehe." The woman with purple hair merely smiled, gesturing with her fingers as the hair vanished into ephemeral flames.

Mei felt freedom return to her body, but she decided to confront boldly in her quest for answers. "Now tell me!" her tone fully raised, "I demand it, I'm not joking!" In her desperation, she began to prepare a basic offensive spell, assuming a combat stance at the slightest sign of danger.

"Poems and written words convey many things. They can transcend even time and space, just as stars shine in the night sky," the enigmatic lady lowered her fan, simultaneously her attire transforming completely into a traditional twelve-layered Japanese robe. "What do you think, Mei-chan? Do I look good?"

Mei summoned a brush with which she drew an ancient character in front of her, emanating a strong magical pressure. "I won't repeat myself!" her golden orbs glimmered calculatingly, and her voice tone was completely cold, leaving no room for negotiation. "How do you know so much about my family? Who the hell are you?"

Showing a bit of resignation, the mysterious woman sighed, looking disappointedly at the girl. "Though words may not be eternal, they shape thoughts that once had no form..." Feeling the girl's power beginning to overflow, ready to confront her, she decided to take a step forward, determined to calm the waters before the storm. Thus, she chose to hurry and present herself with the same etiquette and grace befitting a courtly lady.

"In the past, I was known as a novelist, poet, and Japanese lady-in-waiting at the imperial court during the Heian period," seeing the surprise and speechlessness of the ojou-sama at the unexpected information, she decided to continue, "That's why I was known as Kaoruko Fujiwara," with a mix of amusement and complicity, the woman swayed her long purple hair, which cascaded like a waterfall of shadows, as if she could read Mei's soul. "So, I am a descendant of Yoshikado from the prestigious Fujiwara Hokke family!"

___________________________________________________________

We find ourselves at the end of this installment, and I trust you have enjoyed the outcome of this update. Though exhausting, I feel deeply satisfied with the achievements made in this third chapter, titled "Ocean of Memories."

Now, I invite you to collaborate in selecting the next worlds I will make available for exploration in our next installment. This process will allow us to focus on the topics that interest you most for the upcoming chapter.

It's gratifying to note that we've received a total of 9 reviews, as well as the support of 63 favorites and 84 followers. I'm excited to see how this project will evolve in the future, and I greatly appreciate your ongoing support.

Before bidding farewell, I'd like to address some comments received about the previous chapter.

Currently, my focus is on how Mei will confront her ancestor. I've meticulously laid the groundwork for the next chapter, which I've been eager to share with all of you for some time. I caution that future reading will be marked by individual responsibility to avoid spoilers from my other works or to discover past projects that, for various reasons, I abandoned or put on hold on my computer.

I sincerely appreciate your words and reviews. For now, I bid farewell as KaleidoMirror, but we'll meet again in the next update!

Chapter Text

Dear readers,

I hope this message finds you well. As you may have noticed, I've been working on a series of updates. Before diving into the details, I'd like to share a personal news: I've achieved the long-awaited promotion and am now the head of the medical department I desired. However, this might lead to certain time constraints for updating my stories. I trust that once I adapt to this new responsibility, I'll be able to resume the usual pace of updates.

With that said, life is a gamble, and I am determined to play to win! I am here once again, proudly sharing my work as KaleidoMirror with all of you.

I am excited to announce that we are finally beginning to explore aspects of the story that I've been eager to share for some time. However, I don't want to give away too much just yet; instead, I invite you to guess which worlds we will be exploring. In the next chapter, you will learn more details and spoilers of my works, and I will even include brief snippets of other stories that I have saved on my computer but have not yet published. I hope you can share your ideas in the comments and try to guess the crossovers I've been working on.

I sincerely appreciate your patience and continued support. Your comments and suggestions are vital to me, as they help me improve and adjust the narrative according to your preferences. I would love to hear in the comments which story you would like me to prioritize for faster updates, given my limited work schedule in the future.

I would like to reiterate that "Kaguya-sama: Love Is War" and "OnK" and all their installments are the property of their respective authors. Likewise, "Fate/Stay Night" and its various adaptations and visual novels are the property of Kinoko Nasu and Type-Moon.

Are you ready?

Enjoy!

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– Boundary Between the Shadow of the Void Tree and the Ocean of Memories –

"Ara, ara~," Murasaki Shikibu watched her descendant's bewildered expression with amusement, clearly pleased. "Oh, this meeting is... very special to me, my little flower."

"You're lying!" exclaimed Mei, her impulsive nature reflecting her father's heritage. A spark of ancient, dangerous fire flickered in her golden eyes, but it quickly faded, replaced by pure confusion.

"Oh, my," Murasaki said with her usual elegance and grace, easily dissipating the tension with a slight wave of her fan adorned with a bonsai tree. "You truly are an 'Emiya'," she smiled behind her fan, observing Mei with curiosity. "Your father responded the same way when we first met. It is not my intention to anger you, my dear."

"I still don't understand!" Mei remained cautious, noting the woman's nonchalance and recognizing her evident superiority. This, combined with the fact that she seemed to be one of her famous Fujiwara ancestors, made Mei change her approach and dismiss her brush. "Are you really my ancestor, the renowned writer of 'The Tale of Genji'?"

The woman, dressed in the traditional colorful twelve-layered robe, nodded before speaking, marveling at the level of sorcery skill for her young age.

"Indeed, I am the Servant Caster. In life, I was known as Murasaki Shikibu. I ask you to take good care of me, Mei Yamamoto, or would you prefer... Mei Emiya?" she said, raising her fan again as a purple glow intensified in her eyes. "As you may have realized, being a descendant of my Fujiwara lineage, it is no surprise that I can perceive the degree of magic you now possess, especially since it seems you have inherited the special part of my legacy deep within you. That is why we have this kind of connection."

"What do you mean by being part of your legacy?" Mei asked, deeply shocked and trying to understand what was happening. Just hours ago, she was preparing to celebrate her birthday, enjoying a special tea hour with Rhyme, and now, of all the magical things that could have happened, she was standing before a historical figure who was, ironically, her ancestor. "What kind of connection do we have?"

"One that is a bit difficult to explain for now," Murasaki sighed before trying to maintain her elegant demeanor. "But I would be very pleased if you could call me Lady Kaoruko, my sweet Mei."

"Are you serious?" Mei rolled her eyes, trying to make sense of this absurd conversation.

"This poor lady, even her descendant intimidates her!" Murasaki continued her dramatic act with the best imitation of distress. "I blame your gangster attitude on Emiya's lack of upbringing! I am sure he has caused my poor Chika so many worries!"

Mei observed the 'virtuous' and 'educated' lady, who previously exuded an air of elegance, descend to this level of dramatics. She truly wondered if she was still dreaming. "I don't think my parents have anything to do with how I behave," she confessed, trying to control her actions despite her emotions almost rebuking her ancestor for her lack of composure. "But they are the best parents for me!"

"I see... That strange magical energy again," Murasaki murmured, noticing the slight cracks forming around them. She realized they didn't have much time for now. Looking intently at her descendant, she felt guilty for what was about to happen but accepted it with a deep sigh. "This is how it works."

Putting on a pair of reading glasses, which she adjusted before winking and trying to lighten the atmosphere with a smile, she continued to maintain appearances.

"I know you have many questions, my dear, but time is not on our side. Before we talk, I believe it should be in a very special and, above all, safe place. In this case, my workshop in Novum would be the best option," she said, looking at her with that sparkle in her purple eyes. Mei felt a kind of resonance within her. "Little Mei, would you like to accompany me?"

"Workshop... what do you mean?" Mei asked hesitantly, her curiosity mixed with distrust, noticing how the cracks began to become more evident.

Murasaki smiled and extended her hand.

"Come with me, I know you'll love it!" At this point, the die was cast, but she trusted it was the best given her current options, so she decided to briefly explain. "Once we leave this Zen garden, we will bypass the defenses of the Antarctic base. We will arrive at a place, a sort of secret agency, specialized in handling temporal anomalies and other existential threats to humanity."

Mei hesitated for a moment before taking Murasaki's hand. "Anomalies? Threats? Humanity?"

"Yes, my little flower," the woman smiled before placing a hair ribbon with a small spiraling blue orb on Mei, much to the girl's annoyance, but knowing it was the only way for her to enter without drawing unwanted attention. "Its original purpose was the promulgation of the human order revision incident by CHALDEAS, following the Grand Order of Marisbury Animusphere."

"What was its purpose… what changed?"

Murasaki seemed to hesitate for a moment before looking at her, satisfied with the hair arrangement she had made. "Not exactly changed. There is much to discuss, but to simplify, we aim to restore human history with all its potential futures."

"…"

"For now, it is time to depart so we can have a long conversation without interruptions."

____________________________________________________________

– Novum Chaldea –

Grand Expansive Library

To her surprise, as they walked together, the surroundings began to change, transforming into a library even larger and more spectacular than any Mei had seen before. The familiar smell of ink made her feel secure, but she was absorbed in the sight of the enormous murals on the ceiling.

It depicted a lush garden of blooming flowers, their petals dancing in the wind among intricate engravings. The most enigmatic thing was the magical energy that seemed to pulse in the air.

"Welcome to my personal library, my dear," Murasaki explained with a confident smile as they sat at a fine wooden desk adorned with Japanese art. "Here, none of Chaldea's unwanted guests will bother us for now. Unfortunately, I had to cancel the writing class for another occasion."

"Writing class?" Mei asked, coming out of her reverie but feeling curious about the topic.

"Yes," Murasaki sighed a bit before showing a guilty expression while fanning herself. "Due to my position as Librarian, both Chaldea's staff and the various Servants eagerly take the opportunity to read physical books instead of the digital records I so abhor."

Seeing the unsightly expression of her ancestor, the young girl understood that there was indeed a story she would like to hear later. "But I don't understand. Tell me, Miss Kaoruko, what do you really want from me?"

Murasaki looked at her for a few moments before feeling guilty about having her 'hands tied' with the future content of the conversation. "As you may have understood, there is much I wish to tell you about Chaldea, but since we are a bit short on time, we will focus on the root of this whole problem."

"I wonder if I am somehow connected to all of this," Mei bit her lip, feeling a bit confused and worried, realizing that she was slowly being pushed into a matter far beyond her understanding.

It was just the beginning, but she felt lost, as today she only expected to properly celebrate her birthday party and now she didn't know what to think, much less how this day would end.

"I am afraid so, my little flower," Murasaki laughed as she continued with a gentle wave of her fan, making an exquisite book with a metallic and rusty cover appear in her left hand.

"This whole matter concerning Archer Emiya-san, who is your father, has been detected for some time by SHEBA, one of Chaldea's observation mechanisms. It has been determined that his existence, or a variable thereof, whether direct or indirect, is causing a collapse of the observed future in many other realities, creating what we have termed 'Emiya Singularities'," she said, gripping her fan with some trepidation. "They have endangered the mass destruction of multiple worlds."

"My father would never do something like that!" the young ojou-sama stood up, feeling completely furious and speechless at the weight of the revelation, forgetting all sense of composure she still tried to maintain. "My father always spoils me! My mom loves him very much, and I have never seen him get angry at any of our antics! He has always been by my side!"

The lady nodded as she waited for her anger to subside. "I know, Mei-chan. It's just that there is more than you know about Emiya-san."

"What are you talking about? You still haven't explained how you know my father," at this point the younger girl still felt her emotions raw, refusing to show any kindness.

"Certainly," Kaoruko apologized but sighed, fearing how the young girl would feel knowing she was about to shatter the 'reality' she knew about her father. "The Servant under the Archer Class, also known as the iron-forged hero, has a reach that is difficult for me to begin to explain. It is better to see it for yourself so that you can understand."

At that moment, the book she had held in her hands until now floated between them. Like a realistic hologram, it displayed the most common appearance of a man in his late twenties, holding his imposing black bow, the wind blowing his white hair, and staring coldly with his gray eyes at his target, his skin tanned. To the girl's astonishment, she realized it was indeed her father but with a serious attitude that she had never seen in him.

"Is that my dad?" Her voice wavered as she walked towards the image, trying to process what seemed like the biggest joke of her life. But facing this reality was beyond obvious, feeling her world shatter into pieces. "But... how? How is this possible!"

"Emiya Shirou is a Servant who usually works as one of the many cooks in Chaldea's cafeteria and takes care of the child Servants. He played an active role in 'Singularity F,' having been summoned as one of the Servants in the Holy Grail War in Fuyuki in 2004," Murasaki's gaze sharpened as she continued. "Unfortunately, he perished after being corrupted, ceasing his functions in battle."

A magical pulse emanated from the book, resonating with those present as they watched the figure of Archer fall into a darkened pool, deteriorating.

"But that's not what's important right now!" she tried to speak as seriously as possible. "What's important is to explain that your father is intrinsically linked to many events here, Mei!"

"You're lying!" The young heiress was inconsolable, tears streaming down her cheeks as she tried to forget what she had just seen. "That's not my father!" she slammed the table, still distraught. "He would never look at anyone that way!" she glared at Murasaki, hurt and resentful. "None of what you're saying is true!"

Seeing her in this state, the Servant Caster could only continue, trying to soften the blow. "You're mistaken, my little flower," she tried to approach, but the girl took a step back, trembling with fear. "Mei, you need to be strong, because what I'm about to tell you is part of a truth beyond your imagination!"

Murasaki made another gesture with her fan, and this time the rust-covered book vanished, replaced by one with a red cover adorned with hearts in pink and red hues.

What struck Mei as strange was that both her Aunt Kaguya and Uncle Miyuki were on the cover, along with a peculiar title in crimson and black with a large central heart: 'Kaguya-sama: Love is War,' with a golden sentence beneath it that sent a shiver through her heart: 'The Echo of the Seasons.'

"I don't understand," she trembled, gathering the courage to ask, slowly approaching but remaining alert. "Why are my aunt and uncle involved in all this?"

Murasaki nodded, looking at the book with a gentle gaze.

"As I warned you before, this is just the beginning of a 'story' you know well, at least up to a certain point."

"I know it?" Mei asked, confused, tilting her head as she finally put her worries aside and took a seat, wiping away the traces of her tears.

"Of course!" Murasaki exclaimed, surprising Mei as the pages of the book finally opened, revealing a version of her father that resembled him more closely. Mei approached cautiously, deciding not to ask questions and trying to control herself reluctantly.

"Your aunt Shinomiya Kaguya-san, as you well know, is the daughter of a very important and influential family in Japan. On the other hand, your uncle Shirogane Miyuki-kun comes from a completely different family background, but despite their differences, he excelled to the point of becoming the student council president. Admired by everyone at Shuchi'in Academy, both were in love with each other but refused to admit it, trying throughout their school years to make the other confess their love first." The librarian's expression turned dreamy and pleased as she threw expressions of love into the air. "Isn't it a beautiful and perfect love-hate story?"

"I think so..." Mei replied, noticing now that the student council group she remembered from her mother's yearbook photos was shown among the pages. However, she noticed that the story her ancestor revealed was a bit different from what she remembered. "But... I still don't understand," she tried to speak softly, organizing her thoughts and wiping her face with a white embroidered handkerchief. "What does my dad have to do with all this?"

"Really?" Murasaki sighed before continuing, feeling guilty upon seeing the still sad expression on the little girl. She felt unsure about how to address the topic correctly. "We could say it was thanks to LAPLACE, which successfully predicted the repercussions and the extent of your 'father's' involvement in everything related to your world, leading to the 'original' reality being altered to some extent."

"You said my world?" Mei's expression was full of wonder, her heart racing. "Are there many more?"

"Well, to be exact, even for Chaldea, we're not sure about the numbers, but we're getting off topic, my dear."

Murasaki felt tempted to digress about how Da Vinci-san had even provided extremely funny images, but that would be for another occasion. Meanwhile, the young heiress began to realize that this was all simply unbelievable.

"For now, just imagine how Chaldea was shocked by this incredible fact. Even with our latest computing engine, TRISMEGISTUS, as an auxiliary method to LAPLACE, it was difficult for us to monitor and analyze in real-time the records of Emiya's past, including the history outside public knowledge and the silently concealed events."

"But... what's the reason?" Mei asked, feeling that she couldn't be more surprised, but somehow sensing that what she would hear next would be something she feared.

"Well..." Murasaki felt a lump in her throat, struggling to find the right words. "Your aunt Kaguya-san is one of the two protagonists of your world, so you could imagine that, despite discovering this issue recently, for more than 28 years that your father was there, surprisingly the 'origin' of your world did not show a negative attitude towards his existence."

"My aunt is one of the two protagonists of my world?" Mei covered her mouth with her hands, shocked and unsure how to respond to this secret. "Is my mom the other protagonist?"

Despite her innocent question, at this point, she feared her father had taken a wrong path and her uncle Miyuki suffered. She refused to think of that possibility, shaking her head vigorously, trying to breathe properly in her attempt to forget it.

"Rest assured, Mei-chan, it's nothing like what you're imagining," Murasaki joked, imagining what the little girl was thinking. She decided to burst her bubble by turning the pages, now showing an image of Chika Fujiwara joking with Shirou in his youth, making the girl smile. "Because that possibility never occurred. Instead, given that your father's existence somehow created two variables, but given the 'will' of your world to rectify it, it only allowed him to support one of the protagonists, in this case, your aunt Kaguya-san, which resulted in the reason behind your existence."

"Is it thanks to my aunt Kaguya that I exist?" Mei now looked completely terrified. "How is that possible?" she nearly fell off her seat.

"That's the truth. Da Vinci-san is 99% sure that your father influenced Kaguya-san, so he only interacted 1% with the other protagonist of the world. But given that he met your mother, Chika Fujiwara," her voice trembled for a moment, recalling the harsh truth behind this choice, "it was at that moment that 'fate' was decided, and it triggered the loss of the last chance for salvation in your world."

"Her?" Mei asked fearfully. "Are you talking about the second protagonist?"

"That's right," Murasaki said, and a heavy silence filled the room, neither of them attempting to start the topic. But seeing her ancestor trembling, the girl decided to break the ice first.

"Do I... know her?" Mei tried to speak, but her voice was barely a whisper. Seeing Murasaki's brief confirmation, she finally mustered the courage to ask, "What happened to her?"

Caster decided it was better to show her so she could understand that this was difficult even for her to mention.

At that moment, the book they had been looking at closed, but this time, instead of looking at the cover, they looked at the back, which appeared to be covered in what seemed to be stars. But what froze the young Emiya was seeing someone extremely well-known in her world at the time. Especially because she loved to listen to and sing her songs, but for the past three years, there had been no news of her in the entertainment industry.

"The second protagonist is... the famous idol Hoshino Ai?" Mei was still trying to comprehend what this new secret meant. The gaze of her idol, who always seemed to shine like stars intoxicatingly, now looked empty. Moreover, unlike the case of her book, the title seemed to be dim and fragmented.

"'Oshi no Ko'?" she murmured, dragging out the words, trying to process everything her ancestor had revealed.

Murasaki sighed deeply, hiding her gaze behind her fan. The atmosphere grew increasingly dark.

"I'm afraid there is no future beyond what you can imagine," she said with a voice that reflected both sorrow and frustration. "It's because there is so much at stake. Multiple realities are being corrupted at this moment by forces beyond our understanding. Da Vinci-san spared no effort in offering us her support so that the realities we can still save do not end up like this or worse."

Mei felt overwhelmed. "But why?" she exclaimed, everything she had been hiding in her heart exploding suddenly: anger, sadness, confusion, disappointment, betrayal, but most of all, a deep sense of loneliness. "Are you telling me that because of my existence... Ai-chan died!?"

"You're wrong about that, Mei-chan!" Murasaki stood up suddenly, catching the girl by surprise, trying to console her. But it was evident she tried to resist her touch, yet Murasaki did not give up, feeling her heart break.

"Isn't there a way to save her?" the grieving heiress still tried to push her away, but she felt the trembling grip of the woman accompanied by words mixed with conflicting emotions.

"What happened to Ai-san is something that no one could have prevented!"

"You're lying!" The silver-haired girl lowered her gaze, losing all sense of strength, drowning in her emotions. "I don't know what to think anymore!"

"You must understand that your father's presence in Ai-san's life could have saved her to some extent, but her 'original' fate was already set in stone!" Murasaki knew the girl wouldn't take this news well. Not only because of her young age but because she still hoped this hadn't affected her birthday. But it was a necessary evil; she needed her to rise to face what was coming. Seeing her descendant in tears, she felt conflicted about whether what she was about to do was right, but this was a decision that had been taken into consideration.

The lady pulled a small crystal from her sleeve, glowing with a faint blue light, still unsure about her decision. "This crystal contains a few fragments of memories about what really happened."

"What do you mean?" Mei asked, confused, but noticed how the library began to fill with light, blocking her view exponentially.

"I'm afraid this is a risk in showing you," her words became a whisper as everything turned to darkness. "But I believe you deserve to know the whole truth."

____________________________________________________________

– Oshi no Ko –

Meeting of Miracles

Chapter 1. Meeting the Shooting Star (Erased State)

Light enveloped Mei, transporting her to a distant memory. When she opened her eyes, she found herself in a completely different setting.

She was inside a worn-out room in the middle of the night, where two young children seemed to be sleeping next to each other. What caught Mei's attention was the familiar color of their hair: a bright bluish-purple and pure white.

"Where are we, Lady Kaoruko?" young Emiya asked, her voice tinged with confusion as she observed the strange scene before her. "Are they...?"

"It's exactly as you imagined, my little flower," the lady nodded as she stood beside her, her voice heavy and saddened. "To be precise, it's a childhood version of both Shirou-san and Ai-san."

"Really?" Slowly, her mentality began to adapt, showing curiosity as she took a step closer to the scene.

"Yes, it's exactly as you see. Ai-san, right after being taken to an orphanage due to her mother's neglect. At this point, she managed to leave the abusive environment, starting to create a 'facade' to protect herself from outbursts."

"Did Ai-chan have a very difficult childhood?" Mei looked back at the scene, seeing how even in her sleep, her idol seemed to cling to her father, her small hands clutching his clothes. Shirou woke up and stroked her hair, just as he usually did with her in her 'spoiled child' mode.

"Shirou-kun," Ai mumbled sleepily, making the boy next to her roll his eyes, obviously familiar with the situation.

"Stubborn as always, Ai," Shirou said as he picked up the scattered cookie wrappers before taking out a blanket to cover them both. "But I'll prove to you that you can trust me because as your first friend, I can't let you down!"

Mei felt conflicted seeing this, especially since there was her father's famous smile that said 'everything will be fine.' All she could do was sigh, confused. Part of her really doubted she knew her father well enough at this point, even wondering if her mother, Chika, knew about all this.

"Ai-san suffered more than you can imagine," Murasaki sighed before continuing. "It was during that time that Shirou, being the oldest in the orphanage, managed to be the first and only one to break down Ai-san's mental barriers and start changing her way of thinking."

"Change? What do you mean?"

"I mean Ai-san lacked any memory of having loved or being loved herself. Until... that happened."

At that moment, the memory changed completely. A building could be seen being engulfed by flames.

Now both were outside, watching a large number of firefighters battling the blaze, while the police cordoned off the area. Given the intensity of the fire and the lack of action and preparation, it was expected that many lives would be lost or at least many would suffer in the process.

"What just happened, Lady Kaoruko?" Mei cried desperately, trying to understand what had occurred. "Why is there a fire now?"

"That's... something even Chaldea... we... still don't know," Murasaki, each time she saw this scene, felt deep sadness knowing what would happen. "But what I can tell you is..." her voice trembled before she abruptly fell silent.

"Ai-chan..." Mei murmured, trying to reach her. But every step she took felt heavier, as if the air itself was against her. Both her voice and she couldn't break through the barrier of time.

"Stop! This is just a memory," the lady shouted, but her words fell on deaf ears. The little girl fell to her knees, desperately trying to hit whatever was stopping her.

"Ai-chan! Ai-chan! Ai-chan!" Mei's voice became hoarse from all the shouting, but her tears were in vain.

At that moment, amidst the flames, a young red-haired boy jumped from the second floor. Despite his short stature, his shirt charred in pieces, his body with some minor burns and covered in soot, he held an unconscious Ai tightly in his arms.

"Help! Help!" he shouted desperately, as if it were a miracle. The lights in the sky shone the moment a couple of paramedics approached and took them both. As they were taken inside an ambulance, young Shirou kept a big smile, seeing that his actions had saved his friend. "I did it!" he said, raising his small fist to the sky before collapsing.

"Will they be okay, Lady Kaoruko?" Mei asked, trembling, grateful that her greatest fears hadn't come true. Still kneeling, she looked at the woman beside her, who also knelt and took her in a strong embrace.

"Yes, they will be fine, Mei," Murasaki responded with a calming whisper, her arms wrapping around young Emiya in a gesture of comfort. "Your father is sarcastically annoying," she frowned, remembering some of their past interactions, "but he is one of the kindest people ever, even from such a young age," shifting her gaze to the other involved, "Now, regarding Ai-san... she just... decided to follow her 'role.'"

Young Emiya felt a whirlwind of emotions. "How could he survive? How could he save her?" she wondered silently, her thoughts intertwined with the image of her childhood father, giving his all to save her idol; that show of selflessness in his smile was genuinely real, something she rarely saw even in the present.

"You will find out soon," with each of Murasaki's words resonating in her mind, the scene faded away.

____________________________________________________________

The scene changed again.

Now, it showed a hospital where her father, still in his child form, was wrapped in special bandages and dressings covering much of his body. Strangely, next to his bed stood a figure Mei knew very well.

"Takeshi-ojiisan?" she asked, bringing her hands to her mouth, her voice still hoarse from crying. "Why is he here?"

"He is the reason for the divergence in Hoshino Ai-san's future," Murasaki responded, instructing her to keep watching.

"So you're my grandfather?" Shirou asked, wary, eyeing the old man with suspicion.

"Yes, my boy," the old man had an expression full of guilt, bowing deeply in a complete dogeza, surprising the child. "You are the last flame of our family, the blessing your clumsy and inflexible grandfather had been searching for," his expression, tears streaming down, mixed with a joy that seemed like it could end his life right there. "I truly thank the gods because I can still fulfill duties I couldn't for so long."

Yamamoto Takeshi, stripped of all charisma and dignity as the last patriarch, was the current CEO of the country's largest military conglomerate. Now, he was with his grandson after committing the greatest mistake of his life, trying to fix it for the past decades. At his advanced age, he had given up hope that his bloodline had ended with the life of his son, but unexpectedly, the heavens smiled upon him after countless disappointments.

"Why are you doing this now?" Shirou asked, his eyes reflecting a mix of distrust and curiosity. "After all this time..."

"Because I couldn't live with myself knowing how much I had failed," Takeshi replied, his voice breaking. "I've made many mistakes, Shirou. Mistakes that cost your father and mother their lives. But I still have time to make amends, to help you fulfill your dreams and protect those you love."

They talked for a long time before a nurse interrupted, informing them that visiting hours were over. A bit frustrated, the old man nodded, but not before looking at his 'grandson,' who was still pondering that 'promise' and whether it would help him achieve his 'dream.'

"But… Will you really help all the orphans, Ojii-san?" Shirou asked, looking confused.

"It's the least I can do after they took care of you for ten years, Shirou." Takeshi looked at him for a moment before sighing. "You have the same stubborn look as your father," he said, reminiscing. "The Yamamoto blood definitely runs through your veins, Shirou."

"I'm an Emiya," the redhead replied firmly, pouting in a way that made the man burst into laughter.

"I know," the laughter faded into a serious expression. "This stubborn old man will respect the selfish wishes of his pampered grandson," he said, feeling guilty for being the cause of all the misfortune in his grandson's life. His wrong choices had taken his son and daughter-in-law. "I'll keep my promise! But I need you to come with me, Shirou," he sighed one last time before leaving. "These old bones still have unfinished business, and I'll need you by my side to show you the true side of the 'Yamamoto.'"

Shirou nodded, not knowing the cost of that promise.

When he tried to reconnect with Hoshino Ai, she had already met Ichigo Saitou, a talent scout, to start her famous group 'B-Komachi.'

It was the first step for her to deceive the media with her fake smile; everyone wanted to know her mysterious secret, even if she was still playing the role of the perfect liar, a very clever idol!

In the years that followed, she only expanded her personality.

Believing she had never been loved by anyone and never loved anyone before, the lies she continued to tell would never become reality; she no longer believed in that!

Because, as expected, even 'her first friend' betrayed her. That thought was the final step she needed to make 'lying is fine' an indispensable trait as her destiny returned to its predestined path.

____________________________________________________________

—Novum Chaldea—

Great Expansive Library

As the vision faded, Mei blinked and found herself back in Chaldea's library, with Lady Kaoruko by her side.

In front of her, the remnants of the fragment dispersed into faintly golden dust with the wind, creating a solemn atmosphere, filled with an uncomfortable silence.

"What happened next?" the girl whispered, her heart heavy with what she had seen.

"As you can imagine, after that, Shirou-san continued his life with the weight of his 'promise' on his shoulders," Murasaki replied, gesturing with her fan. The book of 'Echo of the Seasons' opened, showing him in the uniform of Shuchi'in Academy during the entrance ceremony. "He never stopped trying. Thanks to his actions, a large number of orphans were supported by institutions and trusts sponsored by the Yamamoto group, but it was too late when he wanted to reunite with Ai-san."

"What do you mean, Lady Kaoruko?" the little ojou-sama looked confused as she turned the next pages of the book. The soft light in the room illuminated her face, enhancing her puzzled expression.

"It was unfortunate, but we could say their reunion wasn't the best," Murasaki's tone was filled with sadness and longing as she slowly stood and approached her. "That was the last time they saw each other because now they had their own reasons for their paths never to cross again. Shirou-san followed what he believed was right, never stopped fighting for those he loved. And Ai-san... well, she found her own destiny, one we better not continue watching for now…"

The scene showed a slightly older Emiya, looking at a pregnant Ai. The tension was palpable as they argued fiercely. The woman's eyes were filled with tears, looking at the man with a mix of pain and resentment. Finally, with an inaudible murmur, Ai closed the door in his face before entering her hospital room. Mysteriously, it became clear that a hooded figure outside the medical institution was stalking her, hiding a weapon and watching her with deep hatred. Before the scene progressed further, the book, with its stellar blue tones, shut tightly with a loud thud.

"Why did it have to be this way?" Mei's voice broke, her eyes filled with tears. "Isn't there a way for everyone to just be happy?" Her voice trembled, reflecting the anguish she felt.

"Life is complicated, my little flower," her ancestor shook her head, placing a comforting hand on Mei's shoulder. "Because that was the beginning of your own story, my sweet Mei-chan," the lady sighed, looking at her with tenderness. The softness in her voice contrasted with the harsh reality she described. Slowly, the book glowed a pinkish tone before its pages turned once more.

This time, her father was lifting her mother in his arms, and she was smiling radiantly. In the background, her uncle Yuu was held by her aunt Miko, who playfully hit him for embarrassing her. As usual, her aunt Kaguya held her uncle Miyuki's hand, teasing the silver-haired couple. In the middle of the celebration in the student council, Chika launched herself at her father, trapping him in her arms before surprising him with a passionate kiss.

"Now you understand," Murasaki said softly, closing the fan. With this, the book seemed to disappear into golden motes of light, storing itself among the many shelves of the vast library. "What happened to Ai-san is not your fault. Her destiny was sealed long before you were born in this reality."

Little Emiya nodded, drying her tears with her adorable handkerchief, still trying to process the wave of emotions she had experienced in the past few hours. "Thank you, Lady Kaoruko. I think I understand a bit better now." Her voice was firmer, though it still trembled slightly.

Murasaki knelt in front of her, gently caressing her hair and rearranging it with her small hair accessory gift. "You must be strong, Mei-chan. I'm sorry these revelations have been so heavy, but there is much I want to share with you before explaining the exact reason I brought you here." The warmth in her touch offered silent comfort, a sense of protection she only felt in the company of her parents.

"So, this is just the beginning?" Mei asked, letting herself be comforted. Her eyes, still tearful and reddened, showed a burning determination.

"Yes, my little flower," she looked at her again, feeling great guilt for putting her descendant at the center of something she deeply opposed, planning to confront her irresponsible Master-san and Da Vinci-san about it later. "I'll be by your side, supporting you along with other Servants as the situation requires," she sighed, looking into her eyes, a deep purple worrying about an innocent gold, "Not just because you've inherited my blood but also my 'Onmyōji' power, which will serve you on your path. But for that, I need you to trust me."

Mei took a deep breath, feeling a strange resonating magical energy surrounding her. "Then tell me… what are we facing?"

"It's difficult to explain even for me," she felt the undeniable bond between the Fujiwara lineage resonating in her soul, "But we face forces trying to corrupt worlds, realities, and even planes beyond the known, actively working against us in ways even Chaldea doesn't yet understand."

At that moment, Mei collapsed to the floor, feeling her strength leave her, but her expression remained resolute. "What can I do then?" she whispered, unconsciously clenching her small hands.

"Well… for starters, I think it's a good time to talk with Rhyme-chan. Don't you think?"

"Alice-chan… is she also here?" the girl with golden eyes felt betrayed by this unexpected surprise.

"Yes…" the lady smiled enigmatically, covering her mouth with her fan, "And she's not alone, as she's accompanied by her usual group of friends."

At that moment, light enveloped the library, and a small table appeared occupied by a colorful group of personalities, looking at both Murasaki and Mei in astonishment, especially since they were in the middle of a 'tea time,' leaving their snacks half-eaten upon being discovered.

"Kaoruko-sama!" the first to respond was Alice-chan, who immediately floated over to the lady, "Kaoruko-sama!" she clung to her skirt, "Why didn't you let me join Mei-chan earlier?"

Mei looked amused at her servant's usual childish behavior, laughing at the unexpected act.

"Ha… ha… ha."

"I was waiting for the right moment for you to join us and for us to talk more amicably before Mei-chan made a decision."

"So this is your master?" a girl with golden hair and bright green eyes in twin tails hidden by a large gray hat stood up from the table, though her large staff made her slower than the rest of the group.

"She seems a bit special, doesn't she?" beside her, a girl with short white hair and dangerous daggers looked at her curiously.

"I sense a unique magical energy from her," another girl with short ash-colored hair under a visor and slanted eyes switched hands with her spear.

"It's not just that, I feel she shares the same essence as Onii-chan!" this time, it was a young girl with long golden hair, wearing a black hat and matching dress.

"Ara, ara~," Murasaki watched with amusement at her descendant's bewildered expression, clearly confused by being surrounded by so many servants studying her carefully, but she felt immensely pleased as she instantly didn't let herself be intimidated. On the contrary, she now unconsciously displayed the same pose as her father, smiling ironically as only he could, "Oh, this meeting… was even unexpected for me, my little flower."

Mei nodded slowly, her mind still processing revelation after revelation, each more impactful than the last. However, the idea of having Rhyme-chan by her side gave her some comfort. Moreover, the mysterious presence of Lady Kaoruko seemed so wise and protective with her, which instilled an unexpected courage in her.

Little did she know, this was only the beginning of her journey, especially since the ruby pendant she received as a gift that day glowed mysteriously in her pocket for a moment before showing a small crack.

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On another note:

I know that I have left many readers in suspense about what will happen next. I encourage you to guess the crossovers we will explore. Don't just think about the stories I have published so far; I have written many more that I have not published for various reasons.

We have reached the end of the chapter, laying the groundwork for a more complete understanding of the plot. You just need a little more patience to understand all the details presented in both this last chapter and the previous ones.

I hope you enjoyed "The Protagonists of the World Are Revealed". What do you think about the secrets behind Shirou?

It's rewarding to see that we have received a total of 16 reviews, along with the support of 81 favorites and 100 followers.

Your support has been crucial, and I am truly grateful to be the first to trust in this work.

Before I say goodbye, I would like to address some comments received about the previous chapter:

Fanfiction:

keybladelight: To start, I thought your idea was excellent. When I started writing this story, I did it with the idea of a parallel story to FGO, focused on Shirou Emiya's daughter. We will see how she faces the actions of her 'father' and if he is really the man she thinks she knows.

Guest: I know, the beginning was a bit cheesy, but it was necessary to emphasize the plot of "Kaguya-sama: Love is War". We will see more than one Emiya here.

QuantumQuasar: I hope you liked the update, my friend. Thank you very much.

DataDynamo0101: We will soon get to Shirou's interactions. We are getting to the part I've been waiting for, and I can't wait for you to see the next chapter.

Guest: Yes, we will see more of the "Kaguya" universe, given the 'origin of Mei', but for now, we are in Caldea, so we will see.

SiliconSorcerer: I hope you liked this update, my friend. Thank you very much.

Wattpad:

No comments.

AO3:

Guest: Thank you very much for correcting that small detail, my friend. Thank you very much.

Guest: I hope you liked the update. See you next time.

I want to express my sincere gratitude for your words and reviews. Your support has been crucial to me, and I am truly grateful.

For now, I say goodbye as KaleidoMirror, but I look forward to our next meeting in the next update.

Until then!

Chapter Text

Hello everyone, I'm KaleidoMirror.

After a long period of inactivity, I’m back, and I’d like to share a bit about what’s been happening. Some time ago, I made the decision to leave a job that had become incredibly stressful due to circumstances beyond my control. Fortunately, life has given me a new opportunity, and now I’m in a much better position, working in a professional and friendly environment—far from the toxic atmosphere I was in before. This new chapter has rekindled my motivation and my desire to keep creating.

However, as often happens, the good news came with some setbacks. I lost my computer, and with it, many of my previous works. As a result, I've decided to back up all my projects to the cloud to prevent future losses.

To get back into the rhythm, I’m sharing a short chapter. Although it’s incomplete, I wanted to update the story as soon as possible. I still have the main plot in mind and some notes stored on my phone, but I’ll need some time to decide which project to fully focus on next. Most likely, my upcoming release will be "The Birth of the Hogwarts Sword"; I had nearly finished this chapter during my breaks, and even took the time to revise and rewrite several parts.

Thank you in advance for your support, and I look forward to sharing more content with you soon.

I’d also like to emphasize that "Kaguya-sama: Love Is War" and all its adaptations are the property of their respective authors. Likewise, Fate/Stay Night, Fate/Grand Order, and their various adaptations and visual novels belong to Kinoko Nasu and Type-Moon.

Are you ready?
Enjoy!

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New Chaldea
Expansive Grand Library
(Currently Tea Time)

Mei tilted her head slightly and murmured, “Why… why am I here in Chaldea? Who are all of you?” She held her teacup in both hands, trying to keep them from shaking as she continued, “I’ve heard terms like ‘Master’ before… but things like ‘Singularities’ and ‘Human Order’ are things I still don’t understand…”

Looking at her ancestor, Murasaki Shikibu, with wide eyes, Mei received answers she could never have imagined… yet everything she was told sounded so… strange? Or perhaps a bit… exciting? Even so, there was something in her heart that made her feel uncertain. Why did her ancestor smile that way—so calm and elegant, as if everything she was saying was… trivial?

But to Mei, none of it made any sense!

Caught between such different emotions, she remembered that, until recently, she had thought her life was… normal. Well, that’s what she believed.

Her mother, Chika Fujiwara, always told her she had to act like an “ojou-sama,” the way she did when she was young. Sometimes, she’d laugh and say, “Where did you get this habit of acting before thinking?” Mei took it as a scolding, but she noticed her mother smiled when she did things right, so it had to be good! Besides, her mom always told her she was as pretty as a porcelain doll, which she was told was “100% inherited from her.” Mei didn’t fully understand the “porcelain doll” part, but it sounded nice, so she tried to be “as good and mature” as her mom.

Sometimes, she’d even set aside her favorite games to try to become a “true ojou-sama.”

Her dad, Shirou Emiya, would always laugh whenever her attempts didn’t go as planned, but he always knew how to comfort her. Lifting her into the air, he’d say that one day he’d tell her all the stories of her mother as a “real ojou-sama.” Mei wanted to hear them all, but she could never get him to say much more. Still, she forgave him easily because they always ended up running around the garden together—and that was the best! In the end, her mom would join in and laugh with them. Mei felt so happy; deep down in her little heart, she knew her mom and dad cared about her and loved her very much.

Then there were her aunts, who loved her in their own special ways. Toyomi-Oneesama would sometimes take her on vacation trips, and Moeha-Oneesama would play funny pranks on her. Lately, of course, they’d been busy with her baby brother, Akira, who had just been born. Mei adored her brother’s tiny smile, though she did feel a little jealous. Sometimes, her aunt Kaguya and uncle Miyuki no longer spent as much time with her as before. But it was okay, because now she was a “big girl,” and she loved her little brother—so everything was fine!

She also had her grandfather, Takeshi-Ojiisama, who was serious and would tell her she would one day become a “true Yamamoto.” Mei didn’t fully understand what he meant, but it seemed important. Sometimes, she felt a bit lost, but just when she was about to ask, her mom would rescue her, whispering, “After all, you’re an Emiya, so don’t worry about grown-up matters.”

Then, on what seemed like an ordinary day, the other half of her happiness arrived in a whirlwind in the form of a children’s book that, as it opened before her, released sweets, toys, flowers, and brightly colored hearts, all at once, unexpectedly changing her life.

That was the day she met Alice-chan—and discovered that… magic was real!

At first, Mei thought she had to be dreaming. These things only happened in the fairytales she loved so much. “Are you a servant?” she asked, feeling her heart race faster and faster. Alice-chan—whose real name was Nursery Rhyme—explained that the world they lived in had a “secret side,” something she called…

“Hidden by the moon?” Mei repeated, feeling dizzy, yet also as if something wonderful was unfolding.

She didn’t fully understand what it meant, but the phrase spun in her head, like those tales of heroes and monsters her dad used to tell her before bed. It all seemed incredible, though maybe a little scary. Should she tell her parents? She didn’t want to hide anything from them, but she also wasn’t sure how to explain it. She decided to wait a bit, though keeping secrets felt a bit uncomfortable.

After that, alongside her new friend, even more amazing things began to appear. The most astonishing was when she discovered her family’s connection to something called Onmyōdō, a form of magic rooted in Japanese folklore.

At first, it seemed… strange. But then, like a spark, that strangeness turned into curiosity. How could all this exist, and she not know? And as she thought about it, she felt a fire light up inside her—a fire that brought even more questions.

So now, here she was, in this strange place called Chaldea, trying to stay calm. Around her, other Servants looked at her with curious smiles, as if she were something strange and intriguing. It made her feel a bit odd… but also important!

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"Is there anything else you’d like to know, my little blossom?"

Mei looked up as she finished her chocolate dessert. Her head still felt a bit heavy; there were so many people saying… strange things. Things she couldn’t fully understand, but they left an odd feeling in her chest, as if everything was more vast and complex than she could imagine.

"No… I think that’s all for now," she answered with a slight nod, trying to show she was keeping up, even though she felt a bit uncertain inside.

"Come now, don’t make that face," her ancestor replied with a gentle smile, lowering her fan. "I know it sounds confusing, but we’ll discuss it more thoroughly when the time is right. Today, I want to help you with something special." With a graceful motion, she conjured a small scroll in front of Mei, whose eyes widened. "True to your name… My sweet Chiika was absolutely right! I can see you have great potential. I’m thrilled to imagine just how far you might go!"

"No! I mean… I just…" Mei stammered, feeling herself blush, though she wasn’t entirely sure why.

"I know…" The older woman looked at her with a mix of tenderness and something Mei couldn’t quite decipher. "Learning the art of Onmyōdō isn’t easy, especially when you've tried to do it on your own. You still have a long way to go, my little one."

"But Mei-chan has been amazing so far! Alice has seen it! She practices every day," Alice, who was sitting beside her, chimed in enthusiastically, as if sharing the most wonderful secret in the world. Mei smiled; Alice always made her feel just a little braver.

"Please, there’s no need to get upset," said Lady Kaoruko, raising a hand with an elegant gesture. The scroll floated gently toward Mei, who regarded it warily before taking it, as if holding it meant entering a whole new world.

“But… why do you trust that I’ll be able to do it?” Mei whispered, a feeling in her chest telling her that her ancestor knew far more than she was letting on.

"I trust you because I know what you’re capable of," she replied, with a wink that made Mei feel special. "After all, things are more exciting when they get… interesting."

"Alice will be with you always, Mei-chan!" exclaimed Alice, her face so familiar that Mei sighed, surrendering to her best friend’s words.

“I promise that as soon as I can, I’ll teach you a few of my secrets.” Lady Kaoruko turned toward the others at the table, who immediately adopted various nervous expressions. “I’ll be awaiting good news from the writing club on how you were considered, and they’ll escort you to your own room. I’m afraid you’ll have to excuse me for now, my dear… I must attend a meeting with someone who’s been quite insistent on meeting you. Though I don’t think now is the best time.”

“So, that’s what you’re planning, Murasaki-san?” came a firm, unfamiliar voice.

Mei flinched, looking toward the door, where a young woman with a determined gaze had just appeared. Her arrival brought a sudden hush to the room.

"It’s rather unfair that I wasn’t informed of this special guest," the newcomer said, fixing her gaze on Mei with an intensity that made Mei lower her eyes, feeling small. "I’ve been waiting to meet you, Mei Yamamoto-san. Or would you prefer… Mei Emiya?" The young woman smiled as if Mei were some intriguing puzzle. "But how rude of me…” she added, gesturing gracefully, “Allow me to introduce myself: I am the acting Director of Chaldea, albeit temporarily. Though it may seem odd, I am the Caster-class Servant, Leonardo da Vinci."

"Da… Vinci?" Mei murmured, feeling as if the name sounded familiar.

"Yes, that’s me," Da Vinci replied, approaching with an amused smile. "How delightful… you’re even more adorable than you looked in the LAPLACE system." Mei tried to make sense of that, but her mind was swimming; could this young woman really be the famous inventor who painted the Mona Lisa? Da Vinci interrupted her before she could ask another question.

"I know what you’re thinking," Da Vinci said, confidently smiling. "But my current form represents the ideal of beauty I pursued all my life. For a true genius, age and gender are irrelevant!"

"Oh, ignore her, my little blossom," sighed her ancestor, standing up gracefully. With an amused look, she hid a smile behind her fan. "Since everyone at Chaldea learned about your existence through the SHEBA system… it’s been quite a stir."

"I’d call it curiosity… and perhaps a touch of envy!" chimed in Alter Santa Lily with a giggle, casting a glance at the others nearby. Mei wasn’t entirely sure what she meant, but it seemed… amusing.

"Hey! It was a fair competition!" protested Alice, pouting as she held up a lollipop, making Mei almost laugh, though she covered her mouth to stifle it.

"Oh, let’s be honest," Jeanne added, raising an eyebrow. "Even Abby was sad all week because she wanted to meet you… we all heard her sighing about how much she wanted to see you, Mei."

"That’s not true! Jeanne just wants to make me look foolish," replied Abigail, though her voice remained calm. She glanced at Mei, with a slight smile. "Don’t believe her, Mei-sama. Jeanne is always making things up. Right, Jack?"

Jack the Ripper, who had been quiet until now, tilted her head with a serious expression and said, "A little… though Abby sometimes tricks me too."

"Hey! Whose side are you on?" Abigail huffed, shaking her golden pigtails in mock annoyance.

Meanwhile, someone whispered if Mei could cook as well as Archer Emiya, and another voice, sounding like "Paul-kun, be more considerate," seemed offended.

“You’re in no position to judge me, Medea-chan!” came a voice from the back.

"Please, enough! Let’s not make a scene!" Mei’s ancestor interjected with a nervous smile, trying to calm everyone down. "Forgive them, my little blossom. They all came to welcome you… even Artoria Caster, who, despite pretending not to care, was the most eager to meet you!"

Mei blinked, looking at all the Servants present. It was hard to follow everything they were saying, but it made her feel… excited.

"Murasaki-san is right…" Da Vinci said, though she seemed a bit weary. She cast a serious look at everyone before resting a hand on her head with a sigh. "All you’re doing is making our guest even more nervous… You should be ashamed!"

Then, as if on cue, they all seemed to apologize at the same time, albeit a bit clumsily. Mei couldn’t help but laugh, and that laugh soon turned into a soft giggle that made everyone else in the room smile.

Her ancestor watched Mei, a gentle smile on her lips and a warm look in her eyes. As she watched her laugh like that, she seemed to whisper to herself, almost as if she didn’t want anyone else to hear: "May that smile last a long time… because sometimes life can be a bit tougher than we imagine."

Mei didn’t hear those words, but she felt the affection in that gaze.

__________________________________________

Thank you so much for joining me in this story.

The next part of this chapter is particularly special to me, as it reflects much of what I've put into this new phase of my life after so many ups and downs. I sincerely hope you enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Goodbye, KaleidoMirror.