Starry Night

The Chaos Order's plan to use dreams was thwarted, but in the end, we failed to completely root out what was left of those who had conspired with Rumil.

The mayor's office announced this incident as the crime of a Gifted who had a mental breakdown at the pioneer base some time ago.

While unrest still lingers on the SS Edenity, the date of Tenebria and Aria's joint performance draws closer.

Mm, mm! Stella Stage always sparkles no matter when you see it!

But all the lights are off?

...Could you show some sympathy sometimes, Mika?

Rei, you always seem happy when you come here.

Everyone on the SS Edenity has at least one special memory of this place!

A treasured performance that stays in your memory... I think people on the SS Edenity call this a magnum opus? Hehe!

For reference, I consider the band Goliath's performance the best. I'm a loyal fan for life!

I'm sure they're grateful for your feelings too, Rei-

Ooooooh-! Tenebria and Aria posters-!

I definitely didn't see these last time! Are they new?! I have to buy those! Wait a moment!

...

R-Rei! Wait!

Haah... When will those kids ever grow up...

Don't be so lenient with them all the time.

Since I've officially accepted this guard mission, I should take it seriously.

...To be honest, I'm not thrilled about performing this kind of mission.

...Speaking of the Chaos Order...

The Special Investigation Division Chief, still no contact?

It's been several days since we lost contact with Yuki, who said she'd investigate the Chaos Order on her own.

Amir seems used to this situation and told me not to worry, saying she'll show up again eventually...

Don't worry too much.

She won't go down easily.

What about the other two?

Inside the SS Edenity, remnants of the dream world still lingered, causing problems.

While incidents where people are attacked and are unable to wake up in reality no longer occur as before,

cases of people being suddenly pulled into the dream world and wandering there continue to happen.

Adelheid and Amir are exploring the dream world, rescuing missing persons and investigating the cause of the problem.

... But it's strange that a dream world we've already dealt with keeps causing problems.

Wasn't that incident caused by Rumil?

I recall the outpost in the dream world where we encountered Rumil.

Black energy and symbols... It was clear that the Chaos Order was behind this whole affair.

In the end, unless we deal with the Chaos Order, there won't be a fundamental resolution to the situation.

Captain, I understand you're worried, but you can't act alone again.

Like when you resolved the dream world incident with the SID without telling me...

I was so surprised when I received the report later... No, what I mean is, since you are the one leading the SS Nightmare, you need to share operational information with the agents.

If there's a problem, it's...

They've already been caught red-handed, so it's strange how quiet things are.

...

I'll talk to the internal organizations on the SS Edenity about it.

It's strange how quiet things are now that the Citizen Council has fallen from power.

I expected them to start meddling in everything right away.

...

I'll look into that.

As we were having that conversation, someone approached us.

Oh my, what were you two talking about?

...Ethan.

You're in charge of security for the performance, is it okay for you to be here?

Today they're setting up new production props, so there should be a lot of outside visitors.

Are you okay, Ethan?

I understand you're in charge of managing access to the performance venue.

Ah! Well, it is my jurisdiction...

But I keep going back and forth to check on things.

Aren't you folks always busy? There was quite a commotion recently about something you handled...

Seeing you pay attention to other places makes me worry if things are okay here.

...

Ah! I'm just saying. I'm not criticizing.

Looks like I've bothered busy people. Well then, good luck.

While the overall security for this joint performance was officially commissioned to the SS Nightmare by the mayor's office, Stella Stage had its existing security and their supervisor.

Naturally, from their perspective, they wouldn't be happy about newcomers rolling in...

Yeah. He seems pretty disgruntled.

Still, what he said about today being busy is true. So to prevent any problems─

C-Captain!

Before Renoa can finish her sentence, Clara comes running with a flustered face.

T-Tenebria is...!

...My eyes, they hurt...!

Just how long do I have to keep doing nothing but paperwork...?

Rei, hasn't it been less than an hour since you sat down?

To think I came all the way to the SS Edenity and all I'm doing is paperwork. Every second counts!

The performances I'm missing out on right now...!

Verifying identities, confirming they're the right people, and checking the schedule for the day of the performance...

It's not fun, but it's all necessary.

Even if you say that, you're doing it because you know it's necessary, Rei. Hehe.

...

...Aren't you?

Ugh... Even back at the Academy, I was never good with words and letters...

I'm jealous of you, Mika, for being good at this kind of thing...

But actually, you're the one doing all the physical work, Rei... Inspecting facilities, taking charge, and running around doing everything.

I find it a bit overwhelming to talk to that many people...

Wait, then what did Owen do?

Tressa is probably guarding Captain...

If I did all the physical work and Mika did all the paperwork...

I cooked.

...

...

...Because no one else on the crew knew how to cook.

Wait, didn't Miss Renoa say they'd do it?

Captain tried it as a test and fainted for a few minutes.

I thought that level of terrible cooking only existed in comics...?

Turns out people like that actually exist...

Still, Miss Renoa is in charge of all the performance venue patrols and overall security procedures.

They are also handling all the negotiations with the picky SS Edenity staff...

...I'm glad everyone has something they're good at.

Ahh, I want to finish this paperwork and go to the Stella Stage, too...

Come to think of it, you mentioned you're a fan of Aria and Tenebria, right?

It's hard enough to see their regular performances, let alone one at the Stella Stage...

Stella Stage...must be an incredible venue.

Since you folks from the SS Edenity are this excited about it.

Of course! The performance will be simultaneously broadcast across the galaxy.

Just standing on that stage is practically declaring yourself an artist representative of this generation.

It's the stage every performer dreams of, wouldn't it be strange not to feel your heart racing?

The galaxy's greatest and largest performance hall...

As Rei said, many people pay astronomical amounts to come here from other star systems.

It's the symbol and pride of the SS Edenity.

...Which means security needs to be even more thorough.

Ah, Miss Renoa!

Did the negotiations go well?

Somehow.

The new security manager is meticulous, but we still managed to work together.

The venue isn't exactly small, so it was essential that we cooperate to inspect everything thoroughly.

If the word "meticulous" is coming from Renoa, they must be...

...

...Good at their job!

...Your reflexes are getting better, aren't they?

I suppose so...

Sigh...

Anyway, I'm glad you're all doing your best!

Thanks. It makes my job easier.

Hehe, just leave it to us!

I'm glad we could be of help.

Good. As a token of my appreciation, I made some snacks.

Have a bite and tell me what you think?

...

...

...Ah, I just remembered I have to go.

Wait a minute, Owen...! You trait—!

Don't hold back. I brought plenty.

M-Miss Renoa, hold on!

Th-there's black smoke coming from them! Is that okay?!

...Captain said it was delicious.

Are they that bad? If you're forcing it, I won't make you eat them.

...

...I heard Rei likes this kind of food!

W-What?!

Wait a minute, you're supposed to share...

...Really?

Eat up, Rei.

Eeeeeek...!

Eeeeeek...!

One, two, three, four— tempo, slower, now faster...

Perfect, the stage equipment is flawless.

What do you think, Alkina?

Hmm...

I think Tenebria could push forward a bit faster than that.

It would be good to add a few more variables, too. She doesn't like perfectly structured stages, she finds them boring.

Leaving room for some improvisational ad-libs would be...

...

...?

What's wrong?

Oh, nothing.

I noticed that you always look after Tenebria, Alkina.

Usually, people are more excited about Aria's performances...

Oh my, I'm Tenebria's manager.

Of course I look after her first.

She requires a lot of attention, even if she doesn't seem like it.

Really?

She always seems so confident, like she can handle anything.

Hehe, not exactly.

Like the time she went out wearing mismatched socks while half-asleep...

...Hmm...

This might be rude, but...

Alkina, you seem less like Tenebria's manager and more like...

More like?

...An older sister, maybe?

Or her mother...?

...Pfft.

Tenebria would be upset if she heard that.

But Alkina, you seem happy to hear it.

Of course.

...

I've watched her chase her dreams since she was young.

I remember when she was small, smiling and saying she wanted to make other people happy.

Being able to watch her like that... I consider it a blessing.

I hope she can smile like that forever.

...You really do see her as a daughter, don't you?

Tenebria must be happy to have someone like you, Alkina.

I hope you two are together for a long time.

...

...Yes. I hope so.

Daddy, daddy...!

Wake up, please...!

...Huh?

Eek...!

D-Don't come any closer!

Are you alright?

...!

Mika, Rei, Owen! Evacuate the remaining people!

Got it! Agent Rei, moving out!

Everyone! This way!

I will provide cover!

Amir! We're breaking through! Cover the rear!

Understood, Chief!

...Renoa, where's the mayor?

The mayor went into the Chaos with Captain.

...Since the Protos is already inside, our job is to clean up the confusion outside.

...Understood. I'll do what I can.

I'll help, too...!

...Leave the cover to me.

That's helpful.

...

(But...)

(We have to hold out until Captain escapes...)

...♩-♪

A song?

The Chaos Energy is...weakening.

The singer of her generation...

...I heard her songs were "special," but I didn't know they had that kind of power.

Everyone...!

Keep fighting...!

Don't give up...!

Is it...neutralizing the Chaos Energy?

I've only heard rumors of this ability...and it is activated by singing...

I don't know how, but thanks to that, things seem to have stabilized.

Even so, unless Captain removes the core inside, the source of Chaos won't disappear.

In the meantime, we have to do what we can.

Everyone, protect Aria while we take out the enemy!

...?

Where...is this...?

In the twisted space all around, Tenebria looked around blankly.

Something feels alien.

In the bizarre darkness where even time and space don't function properly.

The only thing visible is herself, reflected as if in a mirror.

...

An idol, huh? Is that the kind of dream you're clinging on for dear life to achieve? My 'other self'.

...Who...are you...?!

Your other 'possibility', perhaps?

An existence you could have been, a you created by the accumulation of different choices you made.

Well...a better version of you than you are now, I suppose?

Those words ring like a spell, sweeping through the twisted space.

Although Tenebria was in pain and felt like her entire body was being wrung out, she opened her eyes even wider.

You're talking nonsense...!

Heh, your resistance is amusing.

After all, we're bound to meet again someday anyway.

This world is...far more fragile, breakable, and complex than you perceive.

...As long as the 'Gray Woman' exists, we can meet anytime.

So why don't we just become one right now?

To save you and me a little trouble, at least.

...

First of all, one thing.

I'm not like something like you.

...You don't know the infinite possibilities you hold.

You were originally-

An idol.

The galaxy's greatest idol.

...That's who I've decided to become.

No one else, but me, by my own will.

I won't tolerate anyone else interfering.

So... get lost─!

With those words.

The world that surrounded her began to shatter.

Sigh...

That was pretty tough...

It's because you moved in the middle without backup, Chief.

It would have been easier if you'd told us in advance.

Sometimes you have to improvise, Amir.

If I hadn't moved like that alone to tail them, the other side wouldn't have shown up.

In the end, if it weren't for Captain, it would have been a disaster.

I told you, improvise.

I did that because I trusted Captain...

I just did my part.

...You always have to have the upper hand, don't you?

I'm SID Chief, of course I have to have the upper hand.

...

Still, comforting a child is hard...

...Sob, hic...

Oh, Adelheid, d-don't cry.

We'll only be separated for a little while. Right? Stop!

Waah...

...

Clara turns to look this way, breaking out in a cold sweat.

...Yuki and Amir are also sweating nervously, avoiding eye contact.

It took a while before Adelheid finally calmed down.

Are you... feeling a little calmer now?

Y-yeah...

Seriously, when you cry like that, it puts me in a tough spot, too.

We'll both be in Terrascion anyway, so we'll see each other again.

But still, Clara, we're friends...

Ahaha, I know.

No matter where you go or what you do, that will never change, Adelheid.

...Okay.

Geez, your eyes are all puffy.

Clara gave a wry smile as she gently wiped Adelheid's face with a tissue.

You can't cry like that just because I'm not around, okay?

...The Special Investigations Department of the SS Justitia will always welcome you, Clara.

Given the courage you've shown, I'm sure you'd be welcomed anywhere, really.

...Hmm, huh?

Come to think of it, I think I have had a similar offer.

Clara's gaze turned toward me.

Captain said if I was interested, I should visit the SS Nightmare with Adel sometime...

...Captain said that?

It's not easy to earn that kind of recognition, at least when it comes to Chaos Exploration.

Your performance on the SS Edenity was remarkable.

Adelheid's growth has been especially noticeable.

Of course, this is only about potential. I don't want to command that you risk your lives.

C-Clara!

Are you going to the prince's ship?!

I want to go, too!

...Pfft.

I better clear my schedule as soon as possible, it seems.

Let's play together again...! You too, Captain!

We're going on another adventure together!

Adel, you love adventures, right?

Yeah, I love them! Adven—

...

Adelheid's voice trailed off mid-sentence.

Her excited voice turned inward, and suddenly Adelheid quietly clutched something.

The teddy bear she always carried was gently clutched in her hand.

...Adel?

...Uh, it's nothing.

Adelheid quietly lowered her head.

...I was just wondering where Mister Bear might be.

Mister Bear...?

...My old friend.

He helped Adel to become a good child.

...

I hope you can see him again.

...Yeah, okay!

Next time, let's go on an adventure together!

The incident at Stella Stage was most regrettable.

If I had provided more information, we could have minimized the damage...

No, the information you shared was tremendously helpful.

If not for the tip that the Chaos Order had infiltrated, the damage would have been much greater.

Perhaps...even to a degree that the Empire would have struggled to cover up.

It wasn't purely out of the goodness of my own heart.

This incident opened up a seat on the Expert Committee, and I profited from it as well.

There is one more thing I'd like to discuss.

Have you had a chance to consider the proposal I made?

What do you think? Is there anything else you would like to add?

I believe I mentioned that business proposals should be directed to the mayor's office.

Hehe, but you know very well that isn't what this is, don't you, Sylvia?

I have no interest in a business partnership.

It's you I'm interested in.

...

A celebrated mathematical prodigy, and on top of that, a Creation Gift...

If you hadn't strayed down the path of being an Agent along the way, who knows where you'd be now...

...I don't believe this is an appropriate topic for a place like this.

Apologies, how rude of me.

But I do want to emphasize that we would very much like to collaborate with you, Sylvia. Hehe.

If a formal position is too much, perhaps a sponsorship...

If that is all you had to discuss, I'll take my leave.

The Mayor is waiting for me.

...

Sylvia.

Humanity is currently at war with Chaos. A single talented individual can save countless lives.

I'm not saying that working in the mayor's office isn't important... but there is a position far better suited to your abilities, Sylvia.

Don't you think so?

I appreciate the offer, but...

Please direct any business proposals to the mayor's office.

...My, my. Shot down rather coldly, wasn't I.

There will be plenty of opportunities ahead.

Mayor, I'm here to deliver today's...

...

What...are you doing...?

Cough, cough...! Oh, S-Sylvia...

I-I was trying to make lunch...

You were...?

I-I put a dish in the oven and turned it on, and then things went a bit...sideways...?

Oh, ahaha...

...

...You shouldn't put that kind of dish in the oven.

O-Oh, really...?

Let's get some ventilation in here, then clean it up together.

Thank you...!

Honestly, I don't know what I'd do without you, Sylvia...

...Indeed.

Oh, right, Sylvia.

In the documents that came in recently, there was a proposal from the Astron Corporation about a collaboration with you.

...Did you look into it?

Yes, I spoke with the CEO about it.

Already? So...how did it go?

She didn't seem like a bad person.

O-Oh, I see... So, she was a good person...

...So, are you going to work with her?

No.

... Because someone else is "a good person" to me.

Huh...?

More importantly, Ms. Heidemarie, there is still smoke coming out. We should finish cleaning up first.

O-Oh my...!

...Hehe.

Honestly, you really can't live without me, can you?

I'm telling you, that's not it!

The transition's timing was late just now!

And the color, too! It should be softer...

...

Tenebria's angry voice fell on the staff member with their head bowed.

Aria, looking troubled, didn't know what to do between the two people.

The person she's scolding just joined, and Tenebria's angry because they keep making mistakes.

Could you maybe intervene...?

At least it's not a real problem...

Don't think you can just brush this off. As long as you work here, you're a professional, right?

You need to do your part properly.

I'm sorry...

Sorry isn't going to cut it-

...Captain.

...

...Sigh, I wasn't trying to be harsh.

But the same mistakes kept happening, so I guess my words got a bit rough. Sorry.

N-no... It's my fault.

At Tenebria's words, the staff member hurriedly apologizes, flustered.

It's a conversation that puts the staff in a difficult position no matter how they respond.

We won't be able to focus anyway, so let's take a break.

We'll practice the rest after the break!

With that, Tenebria strode away.

Aria quickly followed behind and bowed her head.

Ah... Captain, thank you.

Phew... I'm glad it ended well. I was worried something might happen...

Oh wait, this isn't the time for that. I should get going too!

After the gathered people dispersed, Alkina approached.

Thank you for handling that.

She's...a bit fiery.

Sometimes I wonder if I've raised her too leniently.

When I look back at Alkina at the mention of raising her, she nods slightly as if my guess is correct.

Tenebria lost her family during the Ellinad Incident as a child.

I've been taking care of her ever since. I'd say she's grown up well, wouldn't you?

...Though she does worry me a bit when she acts like that. Still, she's precious to me.

So please, take good care of her for the time being.

...So that's what we talked about.

What! The! Heck!

Tenebria flails her arms and legs as she shouts.

You took the staff's side there! Whose side are you on, Captain?

Me, or that staff member?

Oh really? You said that with my best interests in mind?

Why didn't you just come out and say I was wrong?

Her public image has always been that of a sparkling, radiant idol.

But what's in front of me now is a willful, reckless young lady acting like a wild child.

...Thinking back to our first meeting, this actually seems closer to her original personality.

Why? Disappointed because I'm different from what you imagined?

Tenebria on stage and Tenebria off stage are different people.

It's exhausting to always look perfect in front of people, you know? I need to let loose sometimes.

...Hmph, what?

Are you pretending to sympathize?

...What?

You pity me?

I don't know much about idol culture, but I do know that being constantly under scrutiny is very harsh.

...Unacceptable.

It seems it wasn't the answer she wanted to hear.

Tenebria sprang up from her seat and approached with burning eyes.

You think you can pity the galaxy's number one idol?

I shine naturally, you know?

Follow me. I'll show you who I am!

Well, I've at least figured out that she has a very strong sense of pride.

A singer's stage rehearsal isn't exactly something you get to see easily.

Especially if you're stationed on the SS Nightmare, a Chaos infiltration ship.

♪♪

One, two, three, four – Good, perfect!

It doesn't end with just singing, there's dancing too, perfectly synchronized to the beat.

Even someone unfamiliar with performances could recognize the captivating melody resonating throughout the space.

Tenebria dominated the entire stage.

It's a realm that could never be reached without blood, sweat, and tears, combined with natural talent. Lacking either would make it impossible.

♪♪

While watching the performance, I noticed a dark energy rippling from boxes stacked in one corner of the audience seats.

Just as I was about to stand up to check, Tenebria, who had finished her stage performance, approached.

So, how was it?

Do you still think I'm pitiful?

...Getting praised right away doesn't feel quite right.

It's like poking someone in the side to make them bow.

How about praising me with a bit more sincerity, Captain?

Tenebria poked my side with her elbow.

The way she's smiling subtly, she seems to enjoy receiving bows earned through a little nudge...

But the moment Aria took the stage and began to sing, her expression instantly hardened.

♪♬♪♬♪

The moment Aria's voice rang out, Stella Stage fell into silence.

Even the staff carrying equipment stop their work and turn to watch the stage.

If Tenebria's performance was a first-class one that pushed every aspect of perfection to its limits,

Aria's performance was─ genius.

A melody that moves people's hearts just by listening.

...

Tenebria's face gradually darkens.

...Let's take a break.

Tenebria turned sharply on the stage and walked away with heavy steps.

Her head hung low, and her clenched fists trembled.

At that moment─

...!

─The boxes stacked in the corner of the corridor collapsed and came pouring down on Tenebria.

Seriously, how do the staff here do their jobs? Why were things stacked like that in a walkway.

She said this is a fundamental issue.

Making basic mistakes repeatedly during rehearsal...

That again?

I'm fine except for rolling because you pushed me.

Heh. Just kidding, just kidding. I train regularly, so something like this is no problem.

Tenebria moved her body as if doing stretches while saying this, then turned to look at Heidemarie standing on one side.

But what brings you here, Mayor?

She starts the conversation naturally.

I heard there was a near miss on the stage. I came to check on you.

Hmm! Is that really all?

Um... Well, that's not all, but...

The way she awkwardly averts her eyes suggests she's hiding something.

If it's something difficult to tell Tenebria, could it be about the Chaos Order?

Aha, business with the Captain?

Yes yes, I'll get out of the way!

Tenebria waves her hand and leaves the waiting room.

Tenebria's attitude and the way they treated each other seemed far too natural for two strangers.

Ah, well...

I heard that Tenebria was rescued during the Ellinad Incident.

When I brought that up, Heidemarie's mood finally softened a bit.

I see... Then this will be easier to talk about.

I was the one who rescued Tenebria back then.

At that time, Tenebria had this empty expression. It was chilling enough that even I, who was rescuing her, felt unsettled...

Now she can make such a variety of expressions,

but sometimes I still remember that moment. I can't help but worry if she's really okay.

This was a story I hadn't heard from Alkina.

From a child with an empty expression to becoming the galaxy's idol... What had happened in between?

I won't know unless I hear it from her directly.

Oh, come to think of it, I have something to tell you, Captain.

Yes. You know that Amir and Adelheid are working to solve the dream world problem, right?

Sylvia has been helping them and kept looking into the case...

She concluded that the dream world incidents happening now are similar to before, yet different.

It's the difference in Chaos energy.

In this dream world, Chaos energy was clearly detected.

If the previous dream world was a counterfeit imitating Chaos, does that mean this time it's real Chaos?

But if that's the case, it doesn't explain how the missing people could return unharmed.

I'm not really sure... but apparently it's not complete Chaos either.

She said it was just energy that leaked out...like a single thread pulled from a ball of yarn...

...I think I heard something like that.

Her voice grows less confident as she continues.

Oh! And I found out how people get pulled into the dream world.

Everyone said they came into contact with dark fog.

Dark fog...

The scene from earlier came to mind.

Captain?

However, what was inside the boxes was just ordinary stage props.

Mistaken? About what?

After hearing a brief explanation, Renoa frowned.

...Maybe it wasn't a mistake after all.

I've seen something similar too. Not these boxes, but...

I asked the SS Nightmare to inspect them, but they said there was nothing unusual.

When was that?

During stage rehearsal two days ago.

Back then, there was a reaction similar to Chaos energy from newly arrived props...

Yeah. That's right.

I kept observing just in case but there were no problems during yesterday's rehearsal.

Does it only react once?

...I doubt it's that convenient.

We're not even sure if that dark energy is the same as the dark fog causing the dream world problem.

Something felt off, but there weren't enough clues yet.

As the day of the performance approached, the floating population on the SS Edenity was steadily increasing.

...Seems like a lot of people are coming from other Arks to see the performance.

We should be united against the disaster called Chaos, does no one feel any tension?

But you need rest to fight!

Rei, who was sitting beside me holding a bag of cookies and watching the rehearsal, agreed.

Even while popping cookies into her mouth, her sparkling eyes were glued to the stage with no intention of looking away.

...Anyway, the more people there are, the easier it is for incidents to occur.

We should focus more on our missions.

While we were talking, the song ended, and Tenebria, having finished her rehearsal, came down from the stage wiping her sweat.

How was it?

It was totally amazing!! Tenebria is the best─!

Really? I was taking it easy since it was just a rehearsal.

Tenebria, smiling pleasantly, turns to look toward us.

Hehe, of course. Whose performance was it, after all?

The real performance will be even more amazing, so look forward to it.

Hmm... Really? You can already sense that?

Are you that interested in performances?

Let's just say I am, for now.

Ah, I'm all out...

Rei turned the bag upside down regretfully, and crumbs spilled out.

There should be desserts in the waiting room. Want some?

R-really?!

Yeah. The fans always send us food.

Dessert from Tenebria, how touching-!!

Wait, Rei...

Why don't you come eat with us? There are desserts you couldn't even buy if you lined up for them.

There's too much for me to eat alone anyway, so it'd be a waste, right?

A conflicted look flashes across Renoa's eyes upon hearing this.

...Just this once.

A neatly wrapped box sat on the waiting room table.

Aria, who had been sitting in a chair, tilted her head as she watched us enter side by side.

Huh? Is the rehearsal over already?

...Just came to take a quick break.

Oh, Aria, you're here too!

Tenebria invited us to have dessert together! Would you like some too, Aria?

Ah, so that was the dessert box. I'm fine, thank you.

Really? Then it's just for us.

Let's see what Alkina brought today...

Tenebria stopped as she reached for the box.

Her expression hardened as she looked down at the box.

...

Who brought this here?

I'm not sure? It was already here when I arrived...

Maybe Alkina left it?

It wasn't Alkina. She knows I don't like cake.

Ah...

I need to call the manager. I clearly said I don't eat cake...!

Tenebria grabbed the cake box and hurled it forcefully at the wall.

Ah, the cake─

As vines wrapped around the surroundings, light, noise, and a strong wind swept through the waiting room.

Kyaaa...!

Wh-what was that!? A bomb terror attack...?!

Cough, cough...!

Captain, are you okay?

Tenebria and Aria are also getting up.

Fortunately, no one was seriously injured in the explosion just now. But if I had opened the box without thinking...

The commotion outside grew louder, and soon people came flooding into the waiting room.

What's wrong?

At Alkina's words, I look at where the explosion occurred.

The bomb's debris lay on the scorch marks.

What on earth...

I explained the situation to the people who had gathered.

Who brought the cake?

Well... it was a new security guard who just joined.

Ethan looks around, with a wounded expression.

But I didn't hire them... I guess you could say they came with the contracted company...

They said they were just asked to deliver it and had no idea there was a bomb inside.

Isn't managing those people your job, Ethan?

That's true, but... isn't that also the security officer's responsibility?

This incident is our fault.

Yes. I'm glad you understand that.

You do have countermeasures for the future, right?

Shouldn't we cancel the performance?

Cancel the performance? On whose authority?

Tenebria stood up indignantly.

Well, I mean, with this bomb terror attack and all...

Absolutely not.

No, nothing happened here today.

...Excuse me?

Are you saying we should...just let this slide?

If this blows up now, the performance really might get canceled.

This happened because you couldn't do your job properly in the first place, didn't it?

But the security officer is also responsible...

The captain protected Aria and me.

To be fair, it was Renoa who protected us, not me.

Do you know how many fans are looking forward to this performance?

I can't disappoint them.

Never mind the fans, if this performance is canceled, we'll suffer astronomical financial losses.

If you can't take responsibility, Ethan, don't bring it up again.

And make sure to keep the staff quiet. You can at least do that, right?

...Well, alright. I'll do my best.

Ethan scratched his head and stood up from his seat.

Renoa watched Ethan's retreating figure and whispered.

He's the one who hired the new staff, right?

Should we check if he was involved in bringing in the props too?

At Renoa's words, I recalled the dark energy that had flickered and disappeared inside the boxes.

But... I had a gut feeling that this was a separate incident.

Which means...

It seems there are more people who envy galactic idols than I thought.

Ethan's been dismissed.

The people that man hired will be re-screened as well.

However, with the performance coming up soon, replacing all personnel at this point is unrealistic.

We'll remove as many unverified personnel as possible and just hope nothing happens...

That's the best we can do for now?

Of course they're denying it. The mayor's office seems to have a headache too.

Since the mayor's office were the ones leading this performance.

The Citizen Council must have lost momentum too. I understand they think they can monopolize power by just keeping the mayor's office in check, but...

Actually, the mayor came by. It seemed like she was looking for Tenebria.

...I have a bad feeling about this.

What did you just say?

Cancel the performance?!

...Renoa's instincts were usually right.

On the way to the waiting room, I heard Tenebria's sharp voice.

I carefully lower my hand, which was reaching for the doorknob.

You're saying that just because of that bomb cake?

We caught the culprit, so what's there to be scared of?

If I was going to quit, I would have quit a long time ago. I can't run away now.

What would the fans who came to see me think?

Didn't you introduce the captain to somehow pull this through?

The situation was different then. I didn't know something like this would happen...

You know this, don't you? That this might not be the end.

It was a bomb this time, but what about next time? Who knows what could happen?

...

I'm going to stand on that stage. No matter what anyone says.

...

Is it because of Aria?

Even through the door, the mood worsens noticeably.

...What did you just say?

Do you want to prove that you're not inferior even when sharing the stage with Aria?

...

You don't need to.

Even without comparing yourself to Aria, you have your own...

...Shut up.

Tenebria─

Shut up, shut up, I said shut up-!

A hysterical scream burst out as if she were being torn apart.

Don't you dare patronize me!

I am Tenebria. The galaxy's greatest idol!

Who are you to judge me-?!

...

...I'm sorry. But still, this performance...

Get out of my way.

I don't want to talk anymore. Never come back!

With those words, the dressing room door swings open.

...Naturally, Tenebria and I locked eyes.

...Captain? How long...?

...

...Tch!

Tenebria violently pushed me away and ran off down the corridor in an instant.

I also make eye contact with Heidemarie, who followed her out.

...

I'm sorry, Captain.

That was an embarrassing display.

If anything, I should apologize for eavesdropping.

More than that... I was worried about Tenebria's state.

...Haa, haa...

...Don't make me laugh...

I'm...the best...

I'll make sure no one can deny it...

...!

Tenebria, who had her face buried between her knees, jerked her head up in surprise.

...Wh-what?

How did you find me?

...Hmpf.

Whatever. I'm leaving.

Follow me if you want.

If she agrees to the decision to cancel the performance for safety reasons, that's the end of it.

The SS Nightmare is the officially designated to be in charge of security for this performance on the SS Edenity.

...!

You...!

I pull a canned drink from my pocket as I say this.

...

...This is the absolute worst.

Tenebria sat back down despite her grimace.

...

Let me make this clear: don't think you're going to comfort me or anything.

Or what? Are you trying to hit on me because I seem troubled?

Sorry, but famous people who'd kill just to talk to me once are lined up across the entire galaxy.

...

You really are the worst counselor ever.

Tenebria glared at me, but couldn't quite bring herself to deny my words.

Since I ended up in charge of security for an idol performance, I did some research.

Tenebria, the galaxy's greatest idol, and Aria, the rising supernova of the idol world- Their popularity has already reached a point where it's hard to say who has the upper hand.

No, to be honest, Tenebria is a setting sun, while Aria is more like a rising one.

I don't want to talk about it.

Especially not to someone as unpleasant as you. Ab-so-lutely not.

Ugh, fine, fine. Really-!

I wondered what the Empire's elites would be like, but you're really annoying!

After shouting, Tenebria gulped down her canned drink.

As if just bringing up the topic made her throat burn.

...Captain, do you have something like that?

Something like "You were born to do this"—decided arbitrarily by those around you.

As a Protos, I have no such memories.

However, being classified as Imperial property, I may partially sympathize with that feeling.

That's why I became the captain of the SS Nightmare, to avoid that fate.

I... had something like that.

I really hated it.

...

But singing. Dancing. Being an idol─

that's a path I chose because I loved it.

Suddenly, Heidemarie's words came to mind.

When she was rescued, didn't they say her eyes were so empty that even her rescuers were unsettled?

They were sparkling, shining so brightly.

Even though everyone's form was different, they resonated with me.

They made tired people happy, comforted them...

I wanted to become someone who could do that too.

I wanted to be loved by many people through that kind of work.

...I wanted to be recognized by everyone through something I love.

That sparkle gave the girl a purpose. The purpose of becoming a beloved diva.

Fortunately, she had talent. Enough talent to draw everyone's attention, one of the finest in the galaxy.

I, who was nothing, could shine brighter than anyone on stage.

The greatest idol loved by everyone...that's my place.

It gave me, who had nothing, a reason to live.

I've worked myself to death to protect that until now...

Tenebria's voice darkened as she continued.

Her expression turned gloomy again, and she buried her face between her knees.

Don't make me laugh.

Don't make me laugh, just don't...

A voice filled with indignation leaked out from between her knees.

The emotion in her tearful words is close to a cry of anguish.

I worked harder than anyone. I devoted my entire life to it-

To reach the zenith, I constantly doubted myself and fought desperately.

But, but...!

Just because she enjoys singing... Losing to someone who drifted into being an idol for that reason?

...

...It's devastating.

...If this is how it is, what have I been living for all this time?

...

...No. Aria is a good kid.

That's why I hate it even more.

Because I look so pathetic, feeling this ugly envy...

...What?

No, aren't you the fool?

Everyone wants to be the best. Why are you stating the obvious─

Beyond exhausting, it's truly terrible.

The effort required to maintain your place at the top. It's a repetition of tasks close to a curse.

...So, you're saying I can't do it, so I should just run away?

Wow, what wise advice. Thanks so much, Captain.

...

...What?

The Protos training process. And the education to become a captain.

When I went to a place where the Empire's finest talents gathered, I realized.

That I'm not the best, and I'll never be able to become the best.

But... By accepting that fact, I became someone who could be kind to everyone.

...

Tenebria shook her head with a blank expression.

...Aria did?

She never told me anything like that...

I recall the request Aria made recently.

She looked worried about Tenebria's recent poor condition, wondering if there was anything she could do to help.

At that time, I got to hear a little about Aria's feelings and some old stories.

...I had no idea.

Even if you're not the flame that burns brightest alone,

you can be the spark that ignites the fire. You can be a flame that burns together with others.

You, Tenebria, are someone who sparkles like that.

All her effort has not been in vain.

...

...Ah, seriously, I hate this.

You were really annoying until just now, but now you're annoying in a different way.

...Don't say things that actually comfort me. I was all ready to hate you.

Though her tone sounded like grumbling, the hostility within had almost completely vanished.

I'm going down.

Tenebria disappeared beyond the rooftop stairs.

Oh, and!

...No, she peeked her head out before disappearing.

Don't be so stuffy around me!

I don't like it when people who are older than me are too formal, okay?

I'm not entirely sure, but it seems she broke down her walls a bit.

I'm- so- tired-

Captain, water, waaater─

...Somehow it feels like she's acting more spoiled toward me than before.

But I guess it's okay to indulge her a little.

Since there's definitely a threat, it's fine to help her conserve her energy in preparation for it.

The movements of the Chaos Order are suspiciously quiet.

The dark fog kept appearing, but there were no signs of the situation worsening.

But that silence felt like the calm before the storm, which wasn't particularly welcome.

Feed me-

And when I look at Tenebria with her mouth open like a baby bird, those thoughts quickly fly away.

I thought she could do this much herself,

but I can see the corners of her mouth slightly twisted. She's messing with me.

Pfft-!

Feeling somewhat annoyed, I shove the opened water bottle straight into Tenebria's mouth.

Tenebria's face turns completely red as she flails her arms and legs, gulping down the water...

I open the bottle cap and carefully pour the water into Tenebria's mouth.

Ahh... Thanks, Captain.

Captain, are you there-?!

...And Renoa, who came to visit the performance venue, froze when she saw that scene.

...

...

As silence enveloped the stage,

Tenebria hastily pulled her mouth away from the water bottle, coughing and waving her hand.

This, puh, cough, I can, I can explain this, you know?!

...The way you're saying it makes it sound like I was doing something really weird.

...I'll hear your explanation later.

Right now, there's something more urgent. Follow me!

Something seemed off about her demeanor.

A suspicious person infiltrated the concert hall. We caught them, but this is the situation now.

I've contacted the SID. Once the staff evacuate, we'll inspect the venue immediately.

Wait. Let me help.

Stella Stage is my stage. I won't forgive anyone who tries to mess with it.

...Tenebria.

It's great that you're so eager, but it could be dangerous.

I'm not being naive or ignorant of how the world works.

I can at least protect myself.

...As security officers, the Captain and I have a duty to ensure the safety of the performers.

Ah, forget it-!

If you don't let me join, should I report to the mayor that the Vice-Captain interfered with the concert preparations?

...*sigh*

Fine. But if things seem to get dangerous, retreat immediately.

Captain. I heard about what happened.

This is the first time we've seen so much dark fog appearing in one place.

Bad smell... My friends won't like it.

It felt like it had almost no energy to begin with.

It naturally disappeared when Adel's ability got close.

Even without that, it seems to disappear when someone makes contact.

Can't go to bad places. Friends don't like it.

So the dark fog is disposable and disappears after one use.

Using Adelheid's ability, even if pulled into the dream world, we could easily go back, so it wasn't a major threat.

We can't let our guard down. We don't know what else might be there.

Captain, let's start the investigation.

This looks like the last one.

Fortunately, nothing unusual happened. Let's finish up quickly and head back.

...?

This is already activa-

An unfamiliar landscape unfolded before my eyes.

A completely different space from where we were just moments ago.

...Is this the dream world?

Not dream world, bad place.

...This place really feels unpleasant.

The Chaos Order?!

Wasn't there supposed to be no one here?

Who were those guys just now?

...This is a first for me.

But I think the smell was there all along. Now I understand.

You mean the Chaos Order was hiding in the dream world?

...I need to investigate further, but it's possible.

...

While the conversation was going on beside her, Tenebria was looking somewhere else with somewhat vacant eyes.

...Huh?

She seems to be in shock.

It's natural for a civilian caught up in something like this. It would be best to take a good rest and regain stability.

No... I'm fine.

I'll get better with practice.

However, contrary to her words, her voice sounded weak.

After saying that, Tenebria walked off somewhere.

And as if taking turns, Alkina approached

What's the problem this time?

Alkina's eyes flashed as she heard the explanation.

...The Chaos Order?

Was Tenebria alright?

Alkina was staring in the direction Tenebria had disappeared.

Her gaze is different from her usual cold, calculating look, there is something twisted and damp lurking in her eyes.

No wounds, but she didn't look in very good shape.

...I see.

We'll need to be more careful from now on.

...You wouldn't know. How many 'impurities' that kid had to filter out just to stand on this stage.

Compared to those, a ban on going out right before the performance is a trivial matter.

I'm simply stating facts.

But it's fine. Soon...that kid will become more perfect than anyone.

Alkina said that and turned away.

For a very brief moment, it seemed like dark fog was rippling in that spot.

A bomb terror attack, unauthorized intrusion by outsiders, and now an encounter with the Chaos Order...

Are you really going to continue with the performance even after all this?

This is a threat to the safety of the citizens aboard the SS Edenity!

I'll say it again: there will be no cancellation.

Neither Tenebria nor Aria wants the performance canceled.

And neither do the fans who came from across the galaxy.

The Expert Committee requests the performance be halted. And Alkina, the performance manager, disagrees.

Neither side will budge an inch.

The security officer also determined there would be no issues with this performance. Isn't that right?

Or are you questioning an Imperial official?

You're all in cahoots with the mayor's office anyway, aren't you?

I'm going to make this public through the press!

Then we'll bill the Expert Committee for damages from the performance cancellation.

Gah...! Holding the citizens' safety hostage...!

The exhausting conversation continued for quite some time, but in the end, the Expert Committee left without getting what they wanted.

...I just hope there aren't any more incidents.

I was sitting at a café near Stella Stage to clear my head when someone suddenly grabbed my sleeve.

Hey, just a second!

Come this way!

Tenebria dragged me to a corner of the café and hid behind a stack of boxes.

From outside, it was a position where we were cleverly hidden from view.

This situation feels like déjà vu.

Of course I am.

And Tenebria grinned mischievously.

I came out to have fun.

As security officer, I should be monitoring where my protection target goes, shouldn't I?

...I feel like I've walked into a trap.

After being dragged around here and there by Tenebria's hand for a while, time flew by quickly.

Hmm! Where should we go next...?

Oh, a bakery. Want to check it out?

Baked goods? No, I hate cake.

That's...

Something bad happened a long time ago.

But an idol has a right to her privacy.

Tenebria said that in a subdued voice and pointed in another direction.

If you don't want to eat, how about that?

My eyes followed the direction Tenebria was pointing to a billboard.

On the billboard, Tenebria was promoting cute character merchandise.

Hm? What's wrong?

Only then did Tenebria's gaze turn toward the billboard.

Hmmm... you're only figuring that out now?

What's in front of you right now is the most famous idol in the galaxy, you know?

Then Tenebria grabbed my arm and pulled.

But I wasn't talking about that—I meant this.

Only then did my gaze fall on the entrance below the billboard.

Of course. Inspiration doesn't just come from sitting still.

You have to move around to different places to stay focused on stage!

It seems the galaxy's idol was a lot more free-spirited than I expected.

Ah, ah!

Ahhh...!

Tenebria's anguished cries echo from across the machine.

On the monitor in front of me, the words 'YOU WIN' were displayed.

Sorry, but I give it my all even if my opponent is an idol.

One more time!

Ugh, urgh...!

Then this time, let's try something else...

Saying that, Tenebria's eyes widened as she searched for the next game to compete in.

Eek, it's the guards!

Men in suits were coming in through the arcade's entrance. They're the concert hall security guards.

Come this way, quick!

I moved away from the entrance to see if there was a gap to slip through, but one of them stayed outside guarding the entrance without coming in.

At this rate, we'd be caught for sure.

While looking around, 'something' caught my eye.

Huh? Wha...?

...W-wait. This is...

...

[Welcome to Stella 4 Cut!]

[Please select your payment method.]

As the machine's notifications continues, a guard's voice can be heard from outside the door.

They said she definitely went in here.

Split up by row and search!

[Please select your payment method.]

What do we do...?

[Payment complete. Please select frame and quantity.]

Huh? Payment...? Why?

[Photography will begin shortly. Please enter the frame.]

Of course, I had no intention of actually taking photos, so I tried to just get through it casually—

[Please enter the frame fully.]

[Please enter the frame fully.]

The photo booth kept repeating the same alarm over and over.

Doesn't seem to be anything here...

Look around carefully one more time to see if there's anything suspicious!

Urgh...

Only after the hesitant Tenebria moves closer does it proceed to the next step.

[Starting photography! 10, 9, 8...]

[Click!]

[Please strike a special pose.]

[Please strike a special pose.]

When there was no movement, the photo booth machine spoke, this time with a different voice.

[Please follow the pose on the screen.]

I-it even detects this...?

...Can't be helped.

[Starting photography! 10, 9, 8...]

[Click!]

I looked around, but there's nothing here.

Phew... Where on earth did she go?

Let's go look somewhere else.

After the guards' voices faded away, a final message played from the machine.

[What a beautiful photo! Now please check if you've left anything behind!]

...

...I'm going to smash that machine...

And after the captain left, Tenebria remained alone in the arcade, standing there quietly for a while.

Perhaps because we had just been hiding nervously behind that cramped, dark curtain, it felt as if the heat from our entangled bodies still lingered.

Gripping the control panel of an arcade machine to support her body that seemed ready to collapse at any moment, Tenebria quietly brought her empty hand to rest over her heart.

In the noisy arcade, a heartbeat clearer than any arcade machine sound was resonating from within.

Hah... That was fun.

Thanks for today.

What?

That's rude. I thanked you from our first meeting, you know?

Is she talking about when she suddenly asked me to hide her at the outdoor café?

All I remember is her saying she'd buy drinks and then just leaving.

Hmm...

Tenebria stares intently at my face.

Captain, why do you help me like this?

Even knowing my personality, you keep talking to me over and over...

Even though you must have all sorts of questions, you don't ask...

Even when I make unreasonable demands, you accept them all...

Certainly, listening to her can be tiring at times. There's a lot I want to ask.

About her abilities that rival an Agent's, about the inexplicable sides of herself she occasionally shows, and what happened on her way to becoming the galaxy's top idol.

But beyond all that, the biggest reason I help Tenebria is—

—compassion for someone who struggles desperately to light their own path, working harder than anyone else.

Of course, if I said this out loud, Tenebria would get angry again, asking if I'm pitying her.

I-is that so?

I thought maybe...you actually liked me...

Likes...you say.

The conversation I had with Tenebria on the rooftop not long ago came to mind. The sight of Tenebria burning with inferiority toward Aria.

...

...

When there's no response, I turn my head to see Tenebria with a bright red face, her mouth opening and closing.

With a bit of exaggeration, she looks like steam might shoot out of her head at any moment...

After staying like that for a while like a malfunctioning machine, Tenebria finally managed to squeeze out words.

...That, that.

You mean the stage, r-right! You mean the stage, right?!

...S-say it clearly!

Y-you sure talk long about useless things. Fine, I get it, I get it!

Everyone will be worried. I-I'm going back—!

G-g-go...

Her eyes wander through empty space, showing a telltale sign of embarrassment.

She seemed to have barely calmed down, but now she's malfunctioning again.

Since it didn't seem like the conversation would continue like this, I decided to wrap things up here.

Se-ri-ous-ly!

Do you have fun messing with people?

I-I'm going back...!

Don't follow me!

And Tenebria stumbled away, running into the alley.

In the dark alley, from beyond the dark fog, shadows rippled and revealed themselves.

...

You guys again?

This is getting annoying. How long are you going to follow me?

An idol... I think it's a disgrace to the Order, but...

Even if it's just child's play, once it's started, I need to see it through.

The vessel is complete. Now only the ritual remains...

...Who are you?

These aren't the Order members I knew.

Does that matter...?

What matters is what you must do.

The time approaches. Accept it...

Still going on about that?

Haha... Even when the people change, the message stays the same.

More incomprehensible nonsense... I'm tired of this now.

Denial is futile...

A new era will dawn.

Prepare for the awakening...

...That's why,

I told you to stop bothering me!

...Haa, haa...

At the end of the alley, Tenebria's figure could be seen, staggering as if about to collapse at any moment.

Captain...?

The captain of the SS Nightmare.

An enemy of the Order...

Your life ends here...

From the bodies of those lying down, black light suddenly swells up.

The moment Tenebria blocks their path, an explosion erupts.

Tenebria's body flew through the air like a kite with a cut string, then crashed to the ground.

Captain...

I told you... not to follow...

Tenebria twitched weakly, muttered softly, then dropped her head as if losing consciousness.

I need to get her somewhere she can be treated. Just as I think that and try to lift the fallen Tenebria-

...Something strange caught the corner of my eye.

Through Tenebria's clothes torn by the explosion, a somewhat strange pattern glows on her exposed skin.

I might not have noticed under normal circumstances... But when I bring my hand closer, light rises as if responding to it.

That's a pretty familiar symbol.

Just a while ago, Diana had shown this seal to me several times, saying it was important.

Tenebria, lying on the bed, spoke with an awkward smile.

Well, no...

My body moved before I knew it.

I mean, Captain, you're weak, so...? I couldn't just leave you there...

But thinking about the performance, I should've held back there, right?

Still, lucky I'm pretty tough. See? I didn't get hurt that badly, right?

...

...Um, Captain.

Did I frighten you?

Aren't you going to ask?

Yeah... What I can answer?

...

...I'm sorry.

Still, I'll answer what I can. Ask me if you're curious about anything.

...I'm...

I grew up in the Order.

And Tenebria slowly began to tell her story.

My parents died when I was very young.

I don't remember the details.

Just that one day someone killed my parents, and I ran away from there.

After that, I lived, homeless, in the back alleys.

I learned that I could survive if I knew how to dig through trash cans.

...

...I'm hungry.

Hey there, little one, are you alone?

...Who are you?

No need to be so skittish.

Aren't you hungry?

...

Here, want some cake?

Ca...ke...?

Yes. Cake.

...

If you follow me, you can eat lots more of these.

What do you say, will you come with me?

...

Okay.

...What a good child.

...That's how I joined the Chaos Order.

A clueless kid who traded away her life for a piece of cake.

Tenebria's tone was calm as she confessed her past, but her voice trembled.

Just remembering must be painful.

Do you want to know what happened after?

But I had to listen. To understand Tenebria's connection to the Chaos Order and prepare a response.

When I nodded, Tenebria let out a small sigh and began her story again.

Hey, who are you?

Me...?

I...

...

Fool. You don't even know who you are?

Just follow me from now on.

The men here are a bit scary, but if you do as you're told, they feed you well.

My name is Vena.

I'm... Tenebria.

See, you can speak!

Tenebria... That's a weird name.

What's your dream?

...

You don't even have a dream?

Me, I'm going to become the greatest idol in the galaxy someday!

Idol...?

What? You don't even know what an idol is?

You really don't know anything, do you?

An idol is the most sparkling singer in the world!

Sparkling...

Then Vena fidgeted and pulled something from her pocket.

It was an old, crumpled poster with a singing woman drawn on it.

This is... an idol...?

This isn't an idol.

You've never seen a real idol, have you?

Real idols sparkle way more than this!

I'll show you a real idol someday!

Everyone, pay attention.

From today, you'll be doing something more special.

This is an opportunity to devote yourselves to the Order, so consider it an honor.

Members who do important work will receive great rewards.

Did you hear? Great rewards. What could it be?

...I want...cake...

Cake again? Why do you like cake so much?

Because it's delicious...

Hey, you over there.

The reward's ours, so you better wake up from that dream.

What? Who do you think you are?!

You ready to settle this?

Both of you, stop it...

Quiet!

...

Now, come forward one at a time.

I'll tell you what you need to do from now on.

And what began... was hell.

The Order members just shoved us deep into the Chaos.

With nothing but our bare bodies, a single blade, and a small pouch of food, we had to wander through the Chaos...

And survive while avoiding the monsters.

We were children, not even ten years old.

Of course, they didn't abandon us completely.

Was it a week, two weeks... Maybe even a month, I can't remember.

Order members would come occasionally and leave food.

Then, I don't know who thought of it first, but...

Everyone came to realize the obvious.

That there was an easier way to survive than wandering deep in the Chaos.

Yes, that's right.

Maybe that's what they were hoping for from the start.

There's no way children could survive deep in the Chaos.

There were over 100 kids who went into the Chaos with me at first.

But...how many do you think were left in the end?

I couldn't give any answer to the weight I felt in that question.

You know, I was pretty lucky...

Chaos, in some secluded corner.

A small girl with pink hair was leaning on another girl who sat slumped against the rubble, crying.

Red blood flowing from the seated girl's body soaked through her rags, but neither of them cared about something like that.

...Sniff, ...sniff.

You fool. Why are you crying?

I'm not a fool...

If you're not a fool, then you're a crybaby.

Vena... don't die...

You fool. Why would I die...?

You said you'd show me a real idol...

Ah... I did say that.

Now!

Vena pressed something into young Tenebria's hand.

It was an object Tenebria had never seen before, even though she thought she'd always been with Vena.

What...is this?

That... Try pressing it.

When Tenebria pressed the button on the small device, a hologram image unfolded before her eyes.

It was a hologram recreating the figure of a woman singing and dancing against a brilliant stage backdrop.

Wow...

See? This is a real idol.

A real...idol...

I was saving it because the battery was running out...

As Vena said, the hologram image was so faint it seemed ready to go out at any moment.

Tenebria, who had been staring blankly at the image, wiped her tears and exclaimed.

Vena, I want to become an idol too!

Fool... I'm...going to become the greatest idol.

Performing at Stella Stage...

Stella, Stage...?

Yeah... It's the greatest stage in the galaxy.

Then I'll go there too!

Heh...

Tenebria.

Huh...?

Being a real idol isn't just about singing and dancing well.

Then...?

Heart...

Heart...?

Yeah...

Conveying a loving heart...

Being loved...by everyone... You need...that heart...

Can you...do it...?

Yes... I will, Vena. I...will...

Good, then... I'll be waiting at Stella Stage...

Vena...

...Ah, I want...cake...

Vena...?

Vena... Vena...!!

...

Until all the kids who were together at first disappeared...

And when I was left alone, I realized I had gained a certain ability.

The power to manipulate the human heart.

Captain. Could a young child with absolutely nothing become the galaxy's top idol in just a few years?

What do you think, Captain?

That's how it is.

After that, I became an idol, but...

I couldn't be certain whether it was truly achieved through my own ability and effort alone.

This is my secret that I haven't told anyone until now.

Are you disappointed?

I'm disappointed.

Naturally, I couldn't help but be disappointed.

S-something like...!?

Maybe you are here right now because of my ability?

Why did a security officer suddenly start caring about an idol's condition...?

Why did you accept everything from an idol whose face you didn't even know...?

Was that really their own will...

...Well, aren't you curious? Can you be certain?

It doesn't...matter?

Because just watching from the side was enough to see that effort, that heart.

If that were magic to charm people, it would surely have been the most radiant magic in the world.

At that question, Tenebria, who had been quiet for a bit, nodded with eyes sparkling brighter than ever.

...Yes. That much, I can swear on my soul.

C-Captain...?!

...Ah, for now, bye-bye.

After I succeeded as an idol and started gaining attention, I was finally able to distance myself.

They still come around sometimes to bother me... But I don't really know what they're after.

I was never in a position to hear about such things anyway, and I'm not interested anymore.

The threat from the Chaos Order hadn't disappeared. Rather, it was approaching more clearly.

They installed markers at the venue, launched ambushes, and the idol who was going to be the center of the performance was injured.

If you look at it rationally, this situation clearly meant the performance should have been canceled.

But even so, I couldn't help but ask.

...Okay.

This is everything to me.

If I didn't have the desire to become someone, I wouldn't have been able to endure until now.

So, please.

Let me...perform.

What I've been doing, what I want to become, what I want to keep doing. It's all there.

I won't give up.

...

Yes.

Foolish... right?

As I answer with a sigh, Tenebria purses her lips and lowers her head.

It seems like she had expected this reaction.

She immediately lifted her head with wide eyes. She apparently hadn't expected that.

Still, well...

If you want to do it, you should.

...Huh?

You're really not going to cancel it?

I'm not. If I was going to cancel it, I wouldn't have asked if you wanted to do it.

The SS Nightmare received a request to eliminate risk factors as overseer of security so this performance could proceed safely.

Above all, if the Chaos Order's threat is approaching, it's better to have the date clearly set.

...

...Thank you.

You know, Captain.

...I'm sorry for calling you annoying the last time.

I didn't know I could rely on you like this.

Tenebria lowered her head and spoke haltingly.

...Really.

St-stop trying to act cool.

...I will, rely on you from time to time.

The excitement at the venue was soaring sky-high.

It was only natural, as the performance by the galaxy's most famous idols was about to begin.

...So they're really doing the performance after all.

Agent deployment is complete. The mayor's office sent backup as well.

Don't worry too much. We're prepared to respond immediately if anything happens.

I'll check outside and come back before the performance starts.

I whisper while watching Renoa's back as she leaves.

That's unlikely.

The lights of Stella Stage began to ignite one by one.

Aria's song ended, and cheers from the audience echoed beyond the barrier. Now it's Tenebria's turn.

Tenebria was trembling slightly backstage, whether from nerves or excitement.

Good luck out there, Tenebria.

Captain... Alkina...

Yes. I'll be back.

However, despite Tenebria's determination, the situation changed drastically.

Murmuring sounds came from all directions, and agents from the SS Edenity burst into the backstage area.

And among them, blood-soaked Yuki walked out with a fierce smile.

Ah- finally made it back.

Thought I was gonna die, you bastard.

Hey there, Chaos Order associate, come on out.

Ready for round 2?

...

Tenebria's face hardened.

What are you doing at my stage right now-

No, no. Not you.

Yuki raised her sword, pointing at someone.

I mean you over there.

...Alkina, who was standing next to Tenebria.

...

While Tenebria stood frozen, Alkina looked at Yuki with a blank expression.

Amir and Adelheid followed, and beside them, Heidemarie stepped forward holding some documents.

...Based on the SID Chief's testimony, we've collected all the evidence.

Bringing hazardous materials into the venue. Maintaining continuous contact with the Chaos Order.

It's already been confirmed that all of this was your doing, Alkina.

You are under arrest. Do not resist.

Tenebria looked back at Alkina in a daze.

What...are you talking about?

That can't be...

...

...

Alkina...?

Alkina looked at Tenebria, still with an empty expression.

Soon, that face twists with indifference.

...So it's come to this in the end.

Can't be helped.

Alkina, what are you talking about?

You do what you want, Tenebria.

...Because I'll do what I have to do.

Alkina pulled something out from her pocket.

A Chaos relic...?!

Nearby agents thrust their weapons toward Alkina.

But even faster than that is the environmental change emanating from the Chaos relic Alkina is holding.

A thick darkness began to sweep through the venue.

The surrounding scenery twists and tangles chaotically.

Fragments of reality shatter, and the laws that constitute the world are replaced with something alien.

The interior of the enclosed venue expands infinitely, and human presence grows distant.

It is clearly a Chaos Bloom phenomenon.

What is this...?!

At the same time, the Chaos Order emerged from within the dark fog.

Pandemonium unfolds in the chaos backstage.

Captain-!

Adel! Grab the Captain!

Heidemarie and Adelheid rush toward me simultaneously.

And I grabbed Tenebria's hand as she reached out blankly toward Alkina.

Captain?!

The next moment, dark fog engulfed the world.

When I opened the door and entered, Renoa and Heidemarie, sitting at their desks with exhausted faces, looked up.

They look more tired than when exploring Chaos, as if they hadn't rested properly for days.

...Oh, Captain.

The on-site cleanup is mostly finished.

...Though there's still a lot of other work left.

Thanks to the efforts of the agents who were at the scene, the casualties were very minimal compared to the scale of the incident.

However, what the Empire focused on wasn't the number of casualties, but something else.

Have the analysis results from the SS Nightmare come in? That Chaos Core...

The structure of the core that bloomed at Stella Stage this time pointed to the same origin as the Theater of Illusions.

The center of Chaos that blooms only on planets and expands its range based on that foundation.

The Chaos Order has found a way to excise and separate cores from Chaos, then make them bloom again.

Until now, there was a perception that space and Arks were safe from Chaos except in special cases like being swept into the influence of ultra-large-scale Chaos, but now that bulwark has been broken down by the Chaos Order.

Naturally, the Empire was closely monitoring this situation.

Since so many people witnessed it directly, I thought keeping it quiet would be impossible...

I didn't know they could cover it up this cleanly.

I guess the Empire is the Empire, after all?

Heidemarie lowered her gaze with a bitter expression.

The bloom of the Theater of Illusions that occurred on the SS Edenity was announced as 'an unfortunate accident at Stella Stage.'

Ordinary citizens across space will simply feel sorry about the small accident, then continue with their daily lives.

Of course, I know everyone would be shocked if this were announced as is, but...

Is this really the right thing to do?

I don't know if it's right, but it might be necessary to maintain order.

Renoa said that reluctantly.

...Um, once this matter is settled, I'm thinking of retiring.

But...seeing things like this makes me lose confidence.

Right, how about joining the SS Nightmare? Wouldn't that be pretty decent firepower?

...

For a moment, Renoa's gaze turned cold... but perhaps exhausted from paperwork, she quietly sighed and turned her head.

What about Tenebria?

A similar situation had occurred with Rita, but this time things were a bit different.

Unlike Rita, who possessed the ability to drift through the Void and observe worlds, it was uncertain whether Tenebria had the capability to detect and capture signals even if the SS Nightmare transmitted them.

...

Heidemarie's expression darkened.

There was one part of the Empire's information manipulation that Heidemarie had actively cooperated with.

I heard Aria is holding a memorial concert.

That kind of thing... isn't necessary.

A heavy atmosphere enveloped the room.

Ah!

A small gasp came from the corridor beyond the wall.

Then the door opened and Adelheid appeared, raising her hand to point outside the window.

Captain! Look over there!

From the sky- someone is falling...!

Renoa, Heidemarie. Everyone turned their heads toward the window following that cry.

Above Stella Stage, through a rift that appeared in the empty sky... A single beam of light, glowing bright pink, was falling.

Playing message.

Hello, Tenebria.

...If you're hearing this, it means you survived and I died.

I...won't be able to be with you, but congratulations anyway.

I won't ask for forgiveness. I had no choice.

I, too... was a work of the Chaos Order.

Born with a more definite 'purpose' than you.

My purpose is to resurrect the 'sect leader' that the Order worships, from beyond Chaos.

Unlike you, I couldn't even refuse.

My life never existed anywhere. Not from the start.

So...

Though I could only watch from the sidelines, being a puppet of the cult...

...I wanted you to do what you wanted to do, in my place.

It felt like forever and no time at all.

But you accomplished it so beautifully.

Your sparkling, shining figure was truly beautiful.

Watching you sing and make people happy felt like my dream was being fulfilled in your place.

...You were amazing, Tenebria.

The greatest idol of my life.

My treasure. No matter what anyone says, you were the best to me.

I won't get to see it, but your performance is my magnum opus.

I hope you carry out the performance to the end.

I'm sorry I can't help you.

I'm sorry I couldn't treat you better.

...I'm sorry for making you hate cake.

Please be happy, until the end. Keep shining bright, Tenebria.

Ending message.

Playing message.

Hello, Tenebria.

...If you're hearing this, it means you survived and I died.

...

It was found in that girl's room.

Normally you can't take evidence out, but...I brought it specially.

Yuki waved her hand as if to say "don't mention it" and disappeared.

Watching that figure disappear, I sat down silently beside Tenebria.

Tenebria stares with vacant eyes at Alkina's repeating message.

From the rift of oblivion beyond Chaos, Tenebria miraculously returned.

After she returned, Tenebria seemed like someone who had lost something that should never be lost,

But even so, I believe she will rise again.

Because─

...Captain.

You said fighting Chaos is your job?

...I am.

Being an idol is my job.

Still, call on me.

I'll be helpful. You've seen it before.

...I'll make those bastards pay the price.

Beyond the pooled tears, Tenebria's eyes were shining brightly.

On the SS Nightmare, there will always be a place reserved for the galaxy's greatest idol.

...That's enough of the gloomy talk.

With those words, Tenebria stood up from her seat and patted her cheeks energetically.

Captain.

...You're always welcome at my performances too, Captain.

I'll always have a seat reserved for you, so make sure to come watch.

Why are you talking like it's distant? We need to go now.

Contrary to what happened in front of the rift, Tenebria grabbed my wrist and pulled me forcefully.

Tonight's the revenge concert, remember? Did you forget?

You need to watch properly from the front row.

After it's over, I'm going to ask for your review. If you miss even one thing, I'll be angry!

I let myself be dragged along with a wry smile.

─Fortunately, it seems the dream of the galaxy's greatest idol still sparkles brightly.

15 minutes!! 15 minutes!!

Captain!

What??

Oh, yes! Preparations were actually finished a while ago, but everyone wants to put on the perfect show.

Think of it as giving it everything right up to the very end.

Not at all. I'm nervous too. But...

Tenebria is here. Having someone to lean on makes it so much easier to breathe.

As I mentioned, Tenebria is my ideal. If I'm taking the stage with my ideal, what is there to be afraid of?

I'm going to do my best and finish today's performance and make sure I tell her.

That it was because of Tenebria that I started dreaming of becoming an idol. And how truly grateful I am.

Maybe that's why the excitement outweighs the nerves. I can't wait to get on that stage!

Over there.

She's been like that for a while now. It looks like she's focused.

I should let Tenebria know you're here, Captain... What would you like to do?

Oh, it's you. I was wondering who was talking to me while I was trying to focus.

What?

...Stop worrying, Captain. I'm fine. Do you know how many rehearsals I've done for today?

Not just rehearsals, I've taken this stage hundreds of times in my imagination alone.

So I really am fine.

...Anyway, why are you still back here, Captain? Are you planning to miss my greatest performance?

I told you I'd be furious if you missed a single moment today. Get to your seat, quickly.

Alkina, take the captain and... Oh.

...

Tenebria! Tenebria! Tenebria!

10 MINUTES!! 10 MINUTES!!

...It's just that this is my first performance without Alkina.

And of all stages, it had to be Stella Stage.

...Actually.

...Actually, I'm scared, Captain.

I gave everything to get here. Which means... This place is everything I have.

I lost many people I loved along the way. I didn't get here on my own strength alone, I got here on everyone's strength.

But on this brilliant stage, everything will be laid bare. In the bright light... There's nowhere left to hide.

On this stage, won't it become painfully clear just how small I really am?

I should have remembered that your counseling is the worst. Alkina would have just comforted me at a time like this.

...

Captain. I have a favor to ask. Will you hear me out?

...Can you run away with me?

Are you on my side, Captain, or Aria's?

I can never give it up. But... I'm scared to death.

...

Right, then... I'll be waiting at Stella Stage, so...

...Vena, are you still waiting for me? You're really at Stella Stage, aren't you?

I made it all the way here without crying...

5 minutes!! 5 minutes!!

...Right, I'll just have to face it.

Whatever happens, happens... I've come this far, haven't I?

Captain!

Alkina always had a gift ready for me after my performances. You should prepare one too.

You can go buy one while Aria is singing. It's not all duets, you know.

Tenebria! We have to go now!

I'm heading out. You'd better get back quickly too, Captain.

Oh, Captain?

...You will cheer for me, won't you?

Everyone's heard the plan, right?

D-do you think the Captain will... be okay?

It's the Captain's plan, isn't it? Of course it'll be okay! I'm on board! I am a little n-nervous, but...

Yes, Captain!

Everyone, hide...!

Here's a towel and some water!

Thank you! Tenebria! Did you hear the cheers? Everyone's so happy!

We can't end it here, right? We should get ready for the encore right away... Tenebria?

How was it? My performance?

No, tell me your thoughts now.

Quickly, Captain.

Quickly. I want to know.

I asked for your thoughts, Captain.

Is that so?

I'm satisfied, too. It went better than the rehearsal.

The fans' reactions were passionate. And nothing went wrong.

...It's just like I dreamed.

Something wrong?

...

No, it's nothing.

Captain, I...

...I...feel like something's missing.

The performance I dreamed of wasn't supposed to be like this.

...

I know... I know it doesn't make sense.

But just like standing on Stella Stage was my dream from the very beginning...

...I think I believed that if I got up here, I'd reunite with Vena, like in a dream.

Even if we didn't have to share the stage... Just knowing she was watching me from somewhere in the audience would've been enough...

Miraculously meeting each other's gaze, waving together, singing together... I think that's what I imagined.

I sang until my voice gave out, afraid she might not find me in this vast galaxy...

But she never showed up.

...Well, of course. What am I even saying? How foolish.

That's exactly why I didn't want to say anything.

Sorry, Aria. I don't think I can manage the encore.

Being like this would just be a burden on you, too.

...The encore isn't mandatory.

Thank you for understanding.

Tenebria...would you like a tissue?

Why?

Your tears...

...Aria, I never cry. The two words I hate most in the world are "fool" and "crybaby."

...

(Now? Is it now, Captain?)

(It's now, right? Here I go!)

Aria, Tenebria, congratulations on a successful show!!

C-congratulations...

Ah... So um... C-congratulations...!

Congratulations. The Captain prepared this present.

Thank you, Captain. You really did prepare something? A present...

...A cake?

Right, then... I'll be waiting at Stella Stage, so...

Vena...

...Ah, cake... I want some cake...

Vena...?

Vena... Vena...!!

...Captain, don't you know I hate cake?

Say something...

Didn't you hear what I said? Cake is...!

I...

What...?

But... Vena wasn't one of them...! We were supposed to meet on that stage!

I scanned every single seat in the audience...! I looked at every one of them...! But... Vena...

...

...

C-Captain! What are you going to do? I recommended my absolute favorite cake trusting you, Captain!

Now Tenebria is going to hate me...!

...

So, Captain...

Can I eat cake now... without Vena getting mad?

I worked really hard, so she'd forgive me for this, right?

I was thinking we'd meet at Stella Stage and... hic, share some cake together...

I was going to tell her how much effort I put in... All of it...

If she was watching the whole time, she won't get mad if I eat some, right?

Captain...was my performance really okay?

Would Alkina be proud of me too?

Captain...

The gift... Thank you. I love it.

Encore! Encore! Encore!

Aria, I'm sorry, but can I change what I said?

Of course.

Let's go back up.

Yes!

Rei, was it you who recommended the cake?

Wha? Y-yes... Yes!!

Thank you. It was delicious.

Ahh...

Captain.

The fans are waiting, so I'll go do the encore first.

Captain, I think I want to be someone who shines for someone else.

There was a time I hoped that someone would be Vena, and then for a while it was Alkina,

But now... it's you, Captain.

So watch me. Watch me shine brighter than anyone else on the Stella Stage.

Burn it into your eyes! Who the greatest idol in the galaxy is!

Got it?