Chapter Text
[2 YEARS AFTER THE BORDERLAND]
Arisu hadn’t seen his friends since the day he woke up in the hospital. The faces, the laughter, the moments they shared…so much of it had slipped away, buried under fragments of broken memory. Yet, even with the gaps, his heart ached with their absence.
He sat on his bed, knees drawn up slightly, clutching the blanket as he stared out the window. The sky stretched endlessly, so free and open, and yet he was trapped inside. His father forbade him from leaving, terrified that something might happen again. Arisu couldn’t blame him. His father only wanted to protect him. Even so, the walls of the house felt suffocating, and his chest grew heavier with each passing day.
He hadn’t played in his games for a long time now. Perhaps he was simply exhausted—his body still carrying the weight of battles he could barely remember. With a sigh, he lowered himself back onto the bed, eyes fixed on the ceiling. His gaze was hollow, lifeless, as though the light within him had dimmed.
Hajime, his brother, was thriving more than ever. Arisu was proud, of course, but pride came with an unwelcome shadow of envy. Hajime was moving forward, and Arisu was standing still—stuck in a place he couldn’t escape.
Sometimes, though, fragments of memory slipped through. He saw flashes of his friends helping him along a perilous journey in that strange, merciless world. He remembered laughter echoing at a place they called “the Beach,” a fleeting paradise before everything burned down into disaster.
And then… someone else. Someone more than a friend. Someone precious. The one he loved most.
Chishiya.
The name echoed painfully in his mind. Arisu’s chest tightened. He hated it—hated that he couldn’t remember the details of the person he loved. Couldn’t recall their smile, their voice, their touch. Only a name, barely clinging to the edge of his memory. How pathetic was that?
He tried harder, whispering the names like a prayer:
“Chishiya… Usagi… Kuina… Ann… Heiya… Aguni… Nira… Nira… Nira- what?”
A sharp groan escaped him. Frustrated, he dragged his hands over his face, pressing his palms into his eyes as if he could force the memories out of hiding. But all that came was silence, and the sound of his own shallow breathing.
“Arisu, are you there?” a faint voice called as someone knocked softly on the door. Arisu immediately recognized it. his brother, Hajime.
“Yeah, I’m here,” he answered. The door creaked open, and Hajime stepped inside, settling on the edge of the bed. He turned his head toward Arisu with a thoughtful expression.
“What is it?” Arisu asked quietly.
“Dad told me to let you know… you’re starting college next week,” Hajime said.
Arisu blinked, staring at his brother as though he had just been told the worst possible news. “College? Why? I barely leave this room… And why the sudden decision?” His tone was sharp, defensive.
“That’s what I thought too. Maybe Dad changed his mind after seeing you lying around like some kind of corpse,” Hajime teased with a crooked grin.
Arisu rolled his eyes, but a faint smile slipped through. “Haha, very funny, Hajime.”
Hajime chuckled and patted his brother’s back. “Hey, I’m just saying. Still… good luck. Dad put you in a really expensive one.”
Arisu sighed deeply. “Yeah, well… I guess I should wish myself good luck too.”
“I’m sure you’ll do fine,” Hajime said, standing up. “Anyway, I gotta go. I’ll see you later tonight.” He reached for the door, then added over his shoulder, “I’ll bring back some snacks and drinks… if I can.”
The door shut behind him, leaving the room quiet again. Arisu lay back against the bed with another long sigh.
“College? Really?” he muttered. Groaning, he hugged his pillow tightly. “This is so annoying…” Closing his eyes, he tried to drift off to sleep.
But then—
“Arisu.”
The voice was female, synthesized and robotic. His eyes snapped open. Heart racing, he shot upright and scanned the room.
“What the hell…?” he whispered. The voice had been so close, too real to ignore. He checked outside the door. Nothing. The hallway was empty.
“No one’s here. I swear I heard someone…” he muttered, though part of him wished it really had been his imagination.
A glance at his watch read 5:00 p.m. His stomach growled loudly in response.
“Oh, right… I didn’t eat breakfast this morning,” he realized with a groan.
Dragging himself into the kitchen, he opened the refrigerator door. only to be met with near emptiness. Spoiled milk. A sad bunch of grapes. A few wilted vegetables.
“Great. Just great,” Arisu mumbled, shutting the fridge with a sigh. “I totally forgot to buy groceries…”
Arisu decided it was finally time to pick up some groceries at the store near his house. He pulled his jacket from the coat rack and slipped it on before stepping outside, shutting the door behind him. The evening air was crisp, the chill sharpened by the remnants of a long snowfall. People along the street bundled themselves in scarves, gloves, and heavy coats. Arisu hadn’t bothered with the extras; his jacket would have to do.
The grocery store’s doors slid open with a soft chime, and the cashier behind the counter greeted him warmly with a friendly smile. Arisu gave a small nod in return before taking a basket and moving down the aisles.
He picked up a pack of curry, two bottles of soda, and then grabbed an assortment of snacks and basic foods to restock his kitchen. When his basket was full enough, he approached the register and began setting his items on the counter.
“Good day, young man! How are you doing today?” the male cashier asked brightly as he scanned the first items.
Arisu froze for a second before replying, “I’m… doing fine. Thanks for asking.”
The cashier nodded and kept talking, tossing in casual questions and small observations as he worked. Arisu tried to keep up, but his replies came out short and awkward. He wasn’t used to this kind of chatter. Still, the man didn’t seem to mind. Once everything was scanned and bagged, the clerk handed the bags over with the same cheerful smile. Arisu muttered a quiet thanks, then left.
Back home, he hung his jacket on the rack and carried the curry to the kitchen. He slipped it into the microwave, pressed the start button, and leaned against the counter while sipping one of his sodas. His free hand scrolled aimlessly through Twitter.
That’s when he paused. A video caught his attention. a girl with long hair, drawing back a bowstring with perfect form. The camera showed only her back, her face hidden from view, but something about her seemed strangely familiar.
“She seems… familiar somehow,” Arisu murmured, narrowing his eyes at the screen. He stared for several seconds before shaking his head with a shrug. “Eh, probably nothing.” He scrolled past without checking the username.
The microwave beeped. Arisu pulled out the curry and set it on the table. The warm smell made his stomach growl. He dug in quickly.
“I forgot how good curry is,” he said under his breath with a faint smile. It had been too long. Within minutes, the bowl was empty.
He tossed the container into the trash, rinsed off his spoon and fork, and left them on the drying rack. After drying his hands against his clothes, he picked up his phone again. A message from his father blinked on the screen.
With a sigh, Arisu carried the phone back to his room.
My Father: Have you eaten yet?
Arisu stared at the message for a moment before replying.
Arisu: Yeah, I have.
He switched off his phone after sending the text, exhaling softly. All he wanted was to rest. Tossing himself onto the bed, he sank into the blankets. His phone buzzed again, but he ignored it, eyes drifting shut as the world slipped into darkness.
“Do you promise we’ll stay together?”
Arisu’s voice was soft, almost fragile. In front of him, a platinum-blonde man gazed back with calm, cat’s eyes. The steady hush of ocean waves surrounded them.
“Certainly, Arisu,” The man replied at last, his tone smooth yet sincere. “No matter the situation, we’ll always be together… along with everyone else.”
Arisu gave a short, quiet laugh. “Right. Of course..! alongside the others.”
The man tilted his head slightly. “Why are you asking me this?”
The laughter faded. Arisu met his gaze with unease. “I just… I don’t want our bonds to end once we leave this world.”
A gentle smile curved the man’s lips. “It’s cute that you’re worried. But I promise…our bond is unbreakable.”
Hearing that made Arisu’s chest feel lighter. He allowed himself a small smile in return. “I hope that’s true, Chishiya.”
The memory dissolved, swallowed by the dark.
“Come here, Arisu.”
Arisu’s eyes snapped open. He sat up abruptly, scanning the room. Empty. His pulse quickened. He knew that robotic voice again, but where was it coming from?
Then he noticed something. His PC screen was on. He hadn’t touched it.
“What the… hell?” he muttered. Sliding out of bed, he pulled his gaming chair closer and sat down. Fingers tapped across the keyboard as he checked through everything, making sure he hadn’t been hacked.
That’s when he saw it. A file he didn’t recognize sitting on the desktop.
Its name: “untitled”.
“I don’t remember downloading this,” Arisu whispered.
Curiosity won out. He then clicked the file.
Before Arisu could react, the screen erupted in blinding light, spilling across his face and room.
“Holy crap!” Arisu shouted, eyes clenching shut as his body felt weightless, pulled forward into the glow. His heart raced as the world around him warped, dissolving into a swirl of light and motion,
Until he was gone from his room.
Arisu slowly opened his eyes. His vision blurred before adjusting to dazzling gold and deep crimson. He was no longer in his room. Instead, he found himself inside a grand venue that resembled a lavish casino theater. Rich red curtains framed the stage, while rows of golden marquee lights glowed above, bathing the room in a surreal shimmer. Decks of playing cards were everywhere—scattered along railings, patterned across the walls, even dangling overhead like glittering ornaments.
At the center stage stood a giant emblem glowing brilliantly: “ENDGAME #OVER.” It was surrounded by oversized playing cards, radiating a strange sense of finality.
“Where… am I?” Arisu muttered under his breath.
That’s when he noticed them. three figures standing about ten feet away, all staring at him.
The first was a tall, slim man with messy black hair that fell in jagged layers, long bangs shadowing his sharp features. Silver piercings gleamed on his left eyebrow, nostril, and even his tongue when he smirked.
The second was a tanned woman, slender but strong, her long dreadlocks streaked with a single white strip down the middle of her forehead.
The third looked younger, an athletic girl with short, dark chin-length hair and watchful brown eyes.
They all turned fully toward him.
“Another victim?” the pierced man scoffed.
Victim? Arisu’s stomach tightened. What does he mean by that…?
“Anyway,” the short-haired girl spoke up, “did you also get transported here by some… weird file?”
Arisu hesitated, then nodded slowly. “Yes… yeah, I did.”
“So none of us know where this is,” the dreadlocked woman added. Her voice carried a sharp edge, but she sounded just as unsettled as the rest.
Each of them shook their heads.
Arisu tried to ease the tension, forcing a small smile. “Well… if nothing else, this place does look kind of cool. I mean… reminds me of somewhere I’ve been before.” The words slipped out awkwardly. It’s almost like the Borderland…
The pierced man clicked his tongue but gave a half-shrug. “Can’t disagree.” His eyes flicked around, scanning every corner as if searching for an exit.
“Okay, seriously,” the short-haired girl cut in, her voice firm, “we need to figure out a way out of here.”
“No need for that.”
The voice was familiar. Synthetic. Robotic.
Everyone’s heads snapped toward the stage.
A figure stepped out from behind the glowing emblem. It was a girl, smiling brightly, her presence almost too vivid for this dreamlike place. She wore a striking red, card-themed outfit: a pleated skirt, thigh-high stockings, and platform shoes that matched the crimson hue. Her turquoise twin tails shimmered as they faded into purple and pink, decorated with playful bows.
Arisu’s breath caught in his throat. She looked human…too human. And yet, that voice…
“Welcome,” she said cheerfully, her tone upbeat despite the metallic ring to her words. “We’ve been waiting for you!”
Arisu instinctively stepped back, the others doing the same.
“Okay, who the hell are you, and where the hell are we?” the pierced man snapped.
The girl clasped her hands together, her smile unwavering. “My name is Hatsune Miku and-”
“Wait… Hatsune Miku?” The dreadlocked woman cut her off, eyes widening in shock.
The name jolted Arisu too. Of course… that’s why her voice sounded so familiar. He’d heard it online before, in songs and clips scattered across social media.
“You know her?” the short-haired girl turned toward the dreadlocked woman, confused.
“Yeah,” she said slowly, still staring at the turquoise-haired figure. “She’s… she’s a virtual persona. A Vocaloid.”
The pierced man narrowed his eyes. “So you’re saying she’s not even human?”
“Well… obviously.” The woman folded her arms, her expression darkening.
“You still haven’t answered where we are,” Arisu pressed, his voice steady but edged with unease.
Miku turned her bright eyes toward him, her cheerful smile never faltering. “You are in Sekai, Arisu! A Sekai created from your feelings and from the feelings of others as well!” she replied with a melodic tone, her robotic voice ringing strangely natural.
Arisu blinked, thrown off by her words.
“From… our feelings?” he echoed slowly.
Miku nodded with childlike enthusiasm. “Mhm! That’s right! This is your Sekai. A world born from your true emotions. Here, you can discover your music, your bonds… and yourselves!”
Her words lingered in Arisu’s chest. Ever since leaving the Borderland, he hadn’t been able to grasp who he truly was anymore. That sense of self had slipped away. Maybe… maybe this was the chance to find it again.
“Arisu?” a familiar voice suddenly called out to him.
He spun around. The tall man, the short-haired girl, and the tanned woman—people he thought were strangers—were staring back at him with expressions of disbelief that quickly melted into relief.
“Is there… something wrong?” Arisu asked cautiously, unsettled by the way they were looking at him.
“Something wrong? Arisu, it’s me…Usagi.”
The world around him seemed to regain its color at once. His breath hitched.
“…What?” he whispered.
“Usagi?! Niragi?! Arisu?!” the tanned woman cried out, her voice trembling. “It’s really you three? Oh my god, I’m so glad to see you after two years!” Tears spilled down Kuina’s face as she broke into a radiant smile.
“Yeah, it was- ow! Hey!” Niragi started, only to be cut off when Arisu lunged forward, wrapping his arms around all three of them. He held on desperately, as if they’d vanish if he dared let go.
“It’s been so long! I couldn’t stop thinking about you!” Arisu’s voice cracked, but his smile was brighter than it had been in years.
Usagi’s arms tightened around him in return. “Yeah… it really has been a while,” she murmured softly, her voice warm with relief.
When they finally pulled apart, Niragi gave a reluctant half-smile. “Can’t believe I’m saying this, but… I missed you all too.”
Kuina smirked through her tears, putting her hand on her waist. “Well, well. Look who turned into a softie.”
“Don’t make me regret it,” Niragi shot back, though his sharp tone was undercut by the faint grin tugging at his lips.
Miku clasped her hands together, her voice chiming like a bell. “It seems everyone’s hearts have connected… and together, a new Sekai has been born.”
All three turned back to her.
“Right… I forgot she was still here,” Niragi muttered under his breath.
“Oh, right.” Arisu cleared his throat. “Miku… you mentioned music. What did you mean by that?”
“In this world, your emotions can be expressed through music,” Miku explained brightly. “It’s the key to understanding yourselves and each other.”
“That’s stupid,” Niragi scoffed, waving dismissively.
“Don’t be cruel, Niragi,” Usagi scolded gently, frowning at him.
Arisu fell silent, his thoughts churning. Was this world really asking them to… find themselves through music? Could he accept that or would he refuse?
“I’ll remain here in your Sekai,” Miku continued, her twin tails bouncing as she leaned forward with a playful smile. “So let’s meet again when you’re ready.”
“Wait, Miku-!” Arisu reached out, but before his hand could touch her, light engulfed him once more.
He jolted awake, back in his room. Everything was exactly the same as before, as if nothing had ever happened… except for the lingering echo of her words.
“…Is what she said… really true? Ugh, so much to think about…!” Arisu muttered, clutching his hair in frustration before letting out a long sigh.
“I should just get some sleep. I’ve got college tomorrow anyway,” he mumbled, pushing himself up from his chair and flopping down onto the bed.
He hugged his pillow to his chest, staring blankly into the dark. Thoughts of Karube and Chōta crept into his mind. their laughter, their voices, and the way they always wanted him to keep going, to find his true self and live for them. The ache of their absence made his chest heavy.
Sleep, of course, refused to come. It never did when he was alone. He hated it..that quiet habit of needing someone nearby just to rest.
The sound of a door opening pulled him from his thoughts. His brother stepped inside.
“Just got back?” Arisu asked, lifting his head with a small smile.
“Yeah.” Hajime dropped into the chair beside Arisu’s bed, rubbing his temples. “The boss dumped a mountain of paperwork on me. It took a while, but at least I finished it faster than last time.”
“That sounds annoying.” Arisu chuckled softly, making Hajime laugh too.
“Yeah, it’s hella annoying. But hey, money’s money.”
“True enough,” Arisu agreed with a nod. Then he squinted at his brother. “Wait, why are you still awake at this hour?”
“Could ask you the same,” Hajime shot back.
Arisu smirked faintly. “…Fair point.”
Hajime leaned back with a sigh. “Honestly, I just wanted to check if you’re okay.”
“Well… I can’t sleep,” Arisu admitted quietly.
“Again?”
“Yeah…”
A short silence followed, before Hajime spoke again. “Want me to stay?”
Arisu didn’t answer—just glanced at him, eyes tired but hopeful. That was enough.
“Alright,” Hajime said with a small smile. “Not like I’ve got the energy to walk back to my room anyway. Where do I crash?”
Arisu gestured toward the big couch near the window. “There.”
Hajime nodded, making his way over. The cushions sank beneath him as he stretched out. “Wow, your couch is comfy as hell.”
“Really? I hardly ever use it, so I wouldn’t know.” Arisu shrugged.
“i can tell.” Hajime chuckled, turning toward the window. “Goodnight, Ryohei.”
“Night,” Arisu murmured back, softer this time.
With Hajime nearby, the weight pressing on his chest finally eased. His eyelids grew heavy. Pulling the blanket up, he let the warmth of his little brother’s presence lure him into sleep. Tomorrow would be a big day.
“Wake the hell up, Ryohei!”
Arisu shot awake, groaning as Hajime shook him hard enough to rattle his bones.
“I’m awake! Jeez, Hajime…” He rubbed his eyes, squinting in the dim morning light. Hajime shoved a glass of water into his hands.
“Here. Hydrate.” Hajime said.
Arisu gulped it down, the coolness jolting him a little more awake. He set the empty glass on his nightstand and sighed.
“Sorry,” Hajime said with a sheepish grin. “You wouldn’t wake up no matter how many times I called your name, so… I had to resort to violence.” He chuckled awkwardly.
Arisu gave him a flat look. “What time is it?”
Hajime glanced at his wristwatch. “Five a.m.”
Arisu blinked. “Hajime.”
“Yeah?”
“You do realize college doesn’t start until 10 am.”
Hajime shrugged, looking far too pleased with himself. “I know! But it’s your first day. Why not get you up early so you can prepare?”
Arisu stared at him for a long four seconds, then flopped face-first back onto the bed.
“Ryohei!”
“Just let me sleep a few more hours, bro. I’m exhausted…” Arisu mumbled into his pillow.
Hajime’s shoulders sagged, but his grin returned. “Nope. Get your ass up.”
Before Arisu could protest, Hajime grabbed his arm and dragged him halfway off the mattress…until Arisu slipped and landed with a painful thud on the floor.
“Ow!” Arisu yelped.
“Sorry! That wasn’t on purpose, I swear!” Hajime raised his hands in mock surrender, eyes wide.
Arisu sat up, rubbing his side. “You didn’t have to drag me, you know. I can get up on my own.”
“Yeah. Barely.” Hajime smirked, scratching the back of his head.
Arisu rolled his eyes, but a small smile tugged at his lips. “Fair.”
Resigned, he got dressed and packed a few books and supplies into his backpack. Once ready, he headed downstairs where Hajime and their father were already at the table, chatting over breakfast.
Sliding into the empty seat, Arisu grabbed a plate and joined in quietly, feeling…for the first time in a while, like things might almost be normal.
“So… are you excited?” Kenji asked, his voice full of forced cheer as he gave his son a “lovely” smile.
“Yes, I’m… excited,” Arisu replied, the lie slipping easily from his lips. He didn’t want to disappoint his father. not when deep down, he feared he’d only fail.
Hajime, however, caught the flicker of doubt in Arisu’s eyes. He didn’t say anything, just kept it to himself with a faint frown.
“You sure you don’t want me to drop you off at the train station?” Hajime asked again.
Arisu shook his head with a small smile. “Yeah, I’ll be fine. Besides, it’s not that far.”
“Fine,” Hajime said with a sigh. He raised a hand in a little wave. “Good luck on your first college adventure, brother.”
Arisu slipped on his shoes, gave a small wave back, and stepped outside. The morning air was brisk and cool against his skin as he walked toward the station.
The train ride was long, but the view from the window soothed him. The city passed by in fragments. Gleaming towers, quiet neighborhoods, parks dusted with dew. It was peaceful in a way that loosened the tightness in his chest.
“Is this seat taken?”
Arisu looked up. A girl stood there, sunlight catching in her hair. His eyes widened.
“Usagi?!”
“Arisu!?”
Arisu almost jumped to his feet, disbelief rushing through him.
“What a coincidence!” Usagi exclaimed, her voice bubbling with excitement.
“Yeah. here, sit!” Arisu gestured quickly, still trying to process the fact that she was right there in front of him. “Where are you headed?”
Usagi slid into the seat beside him, smiling. “I’m headed to Seiwa College. It’s my first day.”
“No way!” Arisu gasped, pointing at himself. “Me too!”
“Really? I didn’t know you were attending there,” Usagi said, her expression lighting up.
“Not exactly my choice,” Arisu admitted with a sheepish chuckle. “My dad enrolled me without even telling me.”
Usagi’s smile faltered. “That’s… kind of wrong.”
“I know.” Arisu laughed softly, but there was a bitter edge beneath it. He shifted slightly, glancing at her. “I never got the chance to ask… how have you been?”
“I’m doing alright!” Usagi replied brightly. “I’ve been climbing mountains again after Borderland. Just like the old days, you know?” Her eyes sparkled with a familiar fire before she tilted her head. “Anyway… how about you?”
Arisu hesitated, his shoulders sinking a little. “…Horrible. After I left the hospital, my dad practically imprisoned me at home. I get it, he was just trying to protect me. But still… I needed air.”
Usagi frowned, concern softening her features. “What’s going on between you and your dad?”
“It’s nothing. Just… father being father,” Arisu muttered.
“That doesn’t sound like ‘nothing’ to me,” Usagi said gently, her gaze lingering on him.
Before Arisu could reply, the overhead speakers crackled. “We will be arriving shortly. Please prepare to disembark.”
The train slowed, then came to a halt at the station.
“We’re here!” Usagi said with a smile, her voice light again. She stood, tugging her bag over her shoulder.
Arisu followed her off the train. As they stepped onto the platform, the city greeted them with a burst of morning light. The sun gleamed over the buildings, painting everything gold, while a soft breeze carried the sound of traffic and chatter.
They fell into step by side along the sidewalk, weaving through the crowd. The weight between them lightened as they talked about the strange months after Borderland, about the little things they’d missed in each other’s lives. For the first time in a long while, Arisu didn’t feel quite so alone.
“How’s Chishiya?” Usagi suddenly asked, her voice carrying a teasing lilt.
Arisu’s cheeks flushed faintly pink as he turned away. “Usagi…” he mumbled, embarrassed.
“What? I just wanted to know!” Usagi grinned innocently.
“…Well,” Arisu sighed, “I haven’t found him. Yet.”
Usagi’s shoulders relaxed, her smile returning. “I’m sure you’ll find him eventually! You two always end up together no matter where you go.”
Her words eased some of the weight on his chest. “Thanks, Usagi. I really hope he’s okay.” Arisu looked up at the bright sky, his heart tightening with longing. He just wanted to see Chishiya again.
“I’m sure he’ll be fine! He’s too smart to let himself get hurt,” Usagi said with firm confidence.
“Yeah… I know he is.” Arisu smiled faintly.
As they continued down the street, they passed two schools. one bustling with girls in neat uniforms, the other a co-ed mix full of chatter and laughter. Arisu couldn’t help but smile at the sight. For a moment, it was comforting to know there were still people who could live so freely, untouched by cruelty.
Finally, they arrived at the college. The campus stretched out before them. grand, sprawling, and full of students.
“Holy moly, this place is huge,” Arisu muttered, pointing up at the towering buildings.
Usagi giggled. “Agreed. It’s ridiculously huge.”
Together, they joined the flow of students, swiping their ID cards at the scanner. The gates clicked open, and as they stepped forward, Arisu bumped into someone.
“Oh! I’m so sorry, I- wait… Niragi?!”
The tall figure turned, meeting Arisu’s startled gaze. Niragi rolled his eyes dramatically. “Not you again.”
Arisu gasped, clutching his chest in mock offense. “What do you mean by that?!”
Niragi snorted, a surprisingly soft laugh slipping past his lips. “You know what I mean.” His attention shifted, and he gave a small nod. “Hey, Usagi.”
“Hi, Niragi.” Usagi waved politely.
“You two also attend this school?” Niragi asked.
“Yes!” Usagi answered brightly.
“Not by choice,” Arisu muttered at the same time.
“Great.” Niragi huffed. “Guess we’re stuck together in this hellhole.”
“I know, right?” Arisu sighed, his shoulders sagging.
“Come on, guys. Give this place a chance!” Usagi scolded, though her smile gave her away.
“Fine,” Arisu said, then shot Niragi a look. “Why did you even enroll here?”
“I didn’t have a choice!” Niragi snapped. “My so-called parents practically begged me to go to this fuckass college. It’s so damn annoying.”
“That… sucks,” Usagi said simply, her blunt honesty making Niragi bark a short laugh.
“Tell me about it,” Niragi scoffed, running a hand through his hair. “So, you and Usagi attend this university… What's next? Kuina?” he joked.
“Hey guys!” a familiar voice called.
Niragi’s eyes widened. “You’ve got to be kidding me.”
“What did I do?!” Kuina yelled dramatically, striding toward them.
Usagi giggled shortly. “Ignore him, Kuina. It’s great to meet you again!” she said warmly.
Kuina’s annoyed expression softened as she turned to her. “It’s nice to see you too, Usagi!” she replied brightly.
Arisu smiled at the scene. “You also attend this university?”
“Yeah. My mother wanted me to, so I enrolled.” Kuina explained with a shrug.
“Pfft. Mommy’s girl,” Niragi snickered under his breath.
Kuina’s eyes narrowed dangerously. “You got a problem?”
“Nothing,” Niragi said quickly, raising his hands in mock surrender.
“We should explore the place together!” Arisu suggested, eager to break the tension. “It’s our first day, after all.”
Everyone agreed, so the four of them started wandering around campus. Between the towering lecture halls and endless courtyards, they bumped into a variety of students.some friendly, some… less so.
“That bitch is hella creepy,” Niragi muttered under his breath as they walked away from a particularly eccentric student.
“Tell me about it,” Kuina agreed. “She wouldn’t stop going on about how beautiful we all are. Totally gave me the chills.”
“You’re not the only one…” Usagi mumbled, hugging her bag a little tighter.
The group fell into awkward silence before breaking into chuckles. Somehow, despite the weirdness, it felt just like old times. As they stepped inside the building, a blast of cool air hit them.
“The air is so cold. I love it!” Kuina sighed in relief, throwing her arms out dramatically.
Arisu giggled. “Yeah… after all that heat outside, this is heaven.”
“Wait, what class are we supposed to go to?” Usagi suddenly asked.
Arisu pulled out his phone and checked the schedule his father had sent him. “Biology… on the…FIFTH FLOOR?!” He squinted, double-checking. Nope. It really said fifth floor.
“What the fuck?!” Niragi’s jaw dropped. “I knew this place was big, but I didn’t know it was built like a damn skyscraper!”
“I was thinking the same thing…” Usagi mumbled.
“Guess we don't have a choice.” Kuina uttered softly. They trudged toward the stairs, already dreading the climb. Step after step, the staircase seemed to stretch endlessly upward. Arisu nearly stumbled back down halfway through, and Niragi and Usagi had to drag him along while Kuina took the lead.
“Oh my god, how long is this going to take!?” Kuina groaned, completely out of breath.
“Dude, help!?” Niragi grunted. Kuina turned to see Niragi and Usagi struggling to haul Arisu, who had gone limp like a ragdoll.
“Oh, shit.” Kuina rushed back and helped drag him. Together, they somehow managed to reach the fifth floor.
“Finally!” Usagi collapsed on the ground, her hair sticking to her face. They were all sweating, wheezing like they’d just run a marathon.
“First day, and I already hate this college,” Niragi muttered, squatting against the wall.
“I think Arisu might actually pass out.” Kuina poked his head. He was flat on the floor, face pressed against the tiles.
“That was the longest staircase I’ve ever climbed…” Arisu mumbled weakly.
“Yeah, he’s definitely gonna pass out,” Kuina confirmed.
“This is like Harry Potter, bro,” Niragi groaned.
“True,” Usagi agreed, still sprawled on the ground. “Except the stairs don’t even move around… they just keep going.”
“Come on, guys. We have class to get to!” Kuina forced a grin, trying to hype them up.
Groaning in unison, the other three dragged themselves upright and staggered toward the classroom door.
“I fucking hate this,” Niragi grumbled as they dragged their feet down the hallway. Finally, they slipped into their classroom. It looked like a typical college lecture hall. rows of desks, whiteboard, projector. The four of them immediately claimed seats together at the back.
“Guys… this might be so random, but I miss Ann,” Kuina said softly, her voice carrying a tinge of longing.
“Of course you do,” Niragi scoffed, shooting her a sideways glance.
Kuina rolled her eyes. “What? It’s true. I miss her so much… In fact, didn’t you say you miss Tatta-”
“Shut the fuck up!” Niragi slapped a hand over her mouth before she could finish. Kuina mumbled protests against his palm, glaring at him.
“It’s okay to miss someone, Niragi,” Arisu chimed in with a gentle smile. “I miss Chishiya too.”
“Just shut up,” Niragi muttered, turning away. A faint pink dusted his cheeks.
“That’s cute,” Usagi teased with a fond grin. Niragi groaned and buried his face in his hands.
The professor walked in just then, clipboard in hand. “Good morning, everyone. I hope you’re all well-rested and healthy. Before we begin, does anyone have a question?”
Silence. No hands raised.
“Alright then. Let’s dive into today’s topic.” She launched into the basics of biology, pacing smoothly as she lectured. The light turned off so she could use the projector.
Arisu leaned on his hand, already frowning at the slides. He’d always despised biology.
“I don’t like the looks of her,” Niragi muttered under his breath.
“What? Why?” Arisu whispered back, turning his gazes toward Niragi.
“She just… sounds like a bitch,” Niragi said bluntly.
“Can you be nice for one day?” Kuina offered, giving him a look.
Niragi shook his head smugly. “Nah. Being mean isn’t that bad.”
Kuina stifled a laugh. “I mean… I kinda agree with you. She does look like a bitch.”
“See? Even you gets it,” Niragi smirked, leaning back in his chair.
Usagi sighed, exasperated but smiling. “Just focus on the front, will you?”
Reluctantly, they all turned back toward the board. Arisu found himself surprised. biology still wasn’t his thing, but somehow, learning felt different. Easier. Almost… fun, with friends beside him.
It was a lie. The subject was boring. The professor had been droning on about Marine Biology for hours without changing the topic once. Just the ocean, fish, coral reefs, ecosystems. over and over again. Arisu’s brain was melting.
“Is this motherfucker ever gonna change the topic, or what?” Niragi muttered, already snapping from boredom.
A faint snore interrupted him. Both boys turned their heads. Kuina and Usagi were slumped over their desks, out cold.
“Are they seriously asleep right now?” Niragi whispered.
Arisu sighed softly. “Let them be. They’ll wake up eventually.”
“They look like they popped a fucking sleeping pill,” Niragi pointed out.
Arisu laughed under his breath. “I can see that. They do look peaceful, though. Let’s not wake them.”
An hour crawled by. The professor was still talking about marine ecosystems. By now, half the class had joined Kuina and Usagi in dreamland. Arisu blinked rapidly, trying to fight the heaviness in his eyes. His notes blurred.
“I should’ve bought coffee earlier…” he muttered, already regretting this entire college thing.
“She’s been talking about the ocean for three hours,” Niragi groaned, leaning back in his chair like he was about to give up on life.
“We should grab coffee later. Deal?” Arisu offered.
Niragi turned to him, silent for a moment, then gave a small nod. “…Sure. I need it anyway.”
Arisu smiled faintly before finally letting his head drop onto the desk. His body relaxed. I give up, he thought, eyes slipping shut.
When he opened them again, the room was nearly empty. Students were packing their bags, chatting as they filed out. Niragi was shaking him awake.
“Get up before I drag your ass across the floor,” Niragi threatened, though the smirk on his face gave him away.
Arisu rubbed his eyes and sat up quickly. “What time is it?”
“2.03 pm,” Niragi replied as Arisu shoved his notebooks into his bag.
“Thanks. Let’s go get drinks, yeah?” Arisu suggested with a smile.
“Sure, I don’t mind!” Kuina chirped brightly, already awake and energized.
“I’ve been craving coffee, so why not?” Usagi added, stretching her arms.
“You already know the answer,” Niragi grumbled, but followed without complaint.
They pushed through the crowd and made their way to the food court. It was buzzing with students, but the group managed to find the familiar green sign. Starbucks.
They each ordered coffee and grabbed a table. The bitter, roasted scent filled the air, already reviving Arisu’s mood.
As they waited, they started chatting, the conversation slipping into jokes and complaints. For Arisu, it was fun. It reminded him that he wasn’t alone anymore.
“And my mom was like, ‘Clean the dishes, you brat!’” Niragi mimicked in a high-pitched voice, throwing his hands up dramatically. “Like, what the fuck? I already cleaned the entire house! Why am I still doing chores that aren’t even mine!?”
Kuina and Usagi burst out laughing, though their laughter carried a hint of sympathy. Even Arisu chuckled.
For the first time in a long while, sitting there with them, Arisu felt…normal.. Their drinks arrived, steaming and rich with the scent of roasted beans. Each of them wrapped their hands around the cups, letting the warmth seep into their fingers.
They took their first sips.
“It’s so good!” Kuina exclaimed, her eyes lighting up.
Everyone nodded in agreement, sipping again like it was the best thing they’d had all day.
“Yeah… I thought it was gonna suck,” Niragi admitted between gulps.
“Why would you think that?” Usagi tilted her head, genuinely curious.
“Dunno. Just expected disappointment,” Niragi shrugged, though he kept drinking like he didn’t mean it.
Arisu smiled faintly, then turned to Usagi. His voice softened. “Anyway, Usagi… do you still live alone, or…?”
She blinked, then smiled warmly. “No. I live with Kota now.”
The others froze for a moment, eyes widening.
“You already found Kota?” Kuina leaned forward, surprised.
Usagi nodded. “Mhm. He’s the one who recognized me about a year ago. It’s… nice, having someone around after being alone for so long.” She sighed, but her smile remained steady.
Niragi scoffed, though there was a rare fondness in his tone. “That kid’s still out there, huh? I’m not surprised.”
Arisu stirred his cup slowly, eyes distant. “Yeah. After all, he survived so many games with us in the…” He hesitated, his voice lowering. “…Borderland.”
The word lingered heavily between them. For a moment, the noise of the café seemed to fade, replaced by the phantom memories of gunfire, flashing lights, and desperate screams. Arisu took another sip, letting the warmth of the coffee pull him back to the present.
“Oh, right.” Arisu leaned forward, his fingers curling around the warm cup. “Have you guys thought about that night?”
The table fell quiet. The chatter of the food court buzzed around them, but none of them spoke at first.
“…Many times.” Kuina finally broke the silence. Her brows furrowed, conflicted. “I… don’t know. I still have to think about whether I should accept it… or decline it.”
“Yeah… I also feel unsure,” Usagi admitted softly, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. The air felt heavier.
Niragi took a slow sip, then set his cup down with a muted clink. “I have no time for… that.”
Everyone turned to him.
“Why?” Arisu asked, studying him carefully.
Niragi’s gaze sharpened, his voice cold. “It’s pointless. Besides… how can you discover yourself in that world?”
His words hit harder than expected. They all sat in silence. The Borderland had stripped them down, broken them apart, blurred the edges of who they were before. Sometimes even now, it was hard to tell if the people they had become were the ones they were meant to be.
Arisu exhaled, his expression steady. “We should give it a try.”
“What?” Kuina and the others turned to him at once.
Arisu’s voice didn’t waver. “It’s our chance to find our true selves. Who knows… maybe it’s worth it.”
No one answered immediately. They just sat there, the thought hanging between them like a fragile thread—something that could either break or hold them together.
“…I’ll think about it,” Usagi murmured.
“Me too,” Kuina and Niragi said at the same time.
Arisu’s lips curved into a small, relieved smile.
“Alright. If you’ve already decided, let me know.” Everyone nodded in silence. “We will.” Usagi says. Hours passed, and by 5:30 the college day finally ended.
Students spilled out of classrooms, voices echoing with laughter and tired goodbyes. The sky glowed in shades of gold and pink as the sun sank lower on the horizon.
“Finally~! College is done!” Kuina cheered, stretching her arms toward the sky. Niragi let out a long sigh of relief, a crooked grin tugging at his lips.
“Yeah, it’s refreshing,” he admitted, though his tone was more amused than anything.
Usagi adjusted her backpack with a light smile. Arisu, however, had his eyes fixed on the horizon.
“The sunset is beautiful,” he said quietly.
The others followed his gaze. The sky looked like it was painted in fire. bright, fleeting, breathtaking.
“Huh. You’re right, Arisu,” Usagi said warmly.
“Should we, like… watch the sunset together?” Kuina suggested, eyes sparkling.
“I guess I have nothing to do.” Niragi replied as he turned away.
“I actually found a perfect spot near the college!” Usagi added excitedly.
“Well, what are we waiting for? Let’s go!” Kuina was already walking beside her, full of energy.
Arisu and Niragi exchanged a glance before trailing after them. Soon, they reached a small beach hidden just beyond the edge of campus. The sand shimmered under the fading light, and the waves rolled in soft and steady.
“I didn’t know there was a beach near the college…” Kuina muttered, scratching her cheek.
“It’s understandable. I only found it by wandering around,” Usagi said with a grin.
“Well, the beach is clean, so that’s a good thing,” Arisu observed, smiling faintly.
“Exactly.” Usagi’s grin widened.
“Let’s just watch the goddamn sunset already!” Niragi grumbled.
“Okay, Mr. Impatient,” Kuina teased.Usagi and Arisu laughed, while Niragi only glared in mock annoyance. The four of them stood together on the sand, the golden horizon reflecting across the water as the waves rolled in. For a moment, it was peaceful. so peaceful that Arisu felt his worries slip away with the tide.
“It’s been a while since I came to the beach, you know?” Usagi said suddenly, her eyes soft as she watched the waves.
“Why’s that?” Kuina asked, curious.
“...Well, I stopped going after my father passed. We always came here together.” Usagi’s voice wavered, though she tried to keep it steady.
The others fell silent. Even Niragi, who rarely showed softness, kept quiet with an expression that almost looked like sympathy.
“Right… sorry about your father, Usagi,” Arisu murmured gently.
Usagi shook her head with a small smile. “It’s okay, Arisu. It’s been a long time. I’ve moved on… I think.”
“Glad you did,” Niragi said, his voice unusually evennwithout his usual bite.
A sudden gust of wind swept across the beach, carrying with it the sharp chill of salt and sea. They tilted their heads toward the sky. Clouds had gathered quickly, swallowing the sunset in a blanket of gray.
Arisu felt the first drop of rain splash onto his head. Within moments, the drizzle became a downpour, sheets of rain hammering the sand and sea alike.
“Oh, come on! We wanted to watch the sunset!” Kuina complained loudly, raising her arms to shield herself. The others mimicked her, but instead of running for shelter, laughter quickly bubbled up among them. They stayed, letting the storm soak them through.
“Watch it!” Niragi snapped as Kuina deliberately kicked up water from a shallow puddle, splashing him head to toe.
“What? Afraid of a little water?” Kuina laughed. only to yelp as Niragi retaliated, sending a wave of muddy spray back at her.
“Take that, you stupid bitch!” Niragi grinned, his laugh rough but genuine.
Kuina’s jaw clenched with mischief, and before he could react, she scooped up a handful of wet sand and lobbed it at him. It hit his shoulder with a wet slap. “Oh, it’s on!” she shouted, and soon they were locked in a playful battle, shrieking and chasing each other along the shoreline.
Meanwhile, Usagi and Arisu had drifted closer to the ocean itself, where the waves crashed hard against their legs. Rain pelted down around them, mixing with the spray of the sea.
“Be careful, Usagi!” Arisu called out nervously as a larger wave broke, nearly splashing over her.
Usagi only giggled, hair plastered against her cheeks. “I’m always careful!” she shouted back, her voice bright with laughter.
Arisu watched her twirl in the rain, her joy unshaken despite the storm. Slowly, he smiled. Maybe this is what we’ve been missing, he thought. Not in the borderland, not in classes, not the long lectures but this. Being alive. Together. For the first time in a long while, he felt free.
“Have you found your true feelings, Arisu?” Miku asked, her voice gentle and melodic, a small, encouraging smile on her face.
Arisu took a deep breath and nodded slowly. “Yes… I think I have. It’s revealed that I love my friends deeply. They’re incredibly important to me. But… I miss them. I miss Chishiya… so deeply. Maybe it’s because I haven’t found them yet,” he admitted, his voice soft, almost like he was confessing to himself more than to her.
Miku stepped closer and sat down beside him, her presence calm and grounding. She reached out and gave his head a light, reassuring pat. “I’m sure you’ll be able to find them, Arisu. You’ve got the courage… and your heart is strong.”
Arisu blinked, staring at her for a moment before letting a small, tentative smile spread across his face. “I know. I can feel it.”
The Sekai around them shimmered faintly, as if responding to the warmth of his words. The air was light, and a soft melody seemed to hum in the background, echoing the pulse of his emotions.
Miku tilted her head, observing him quietly. “Your heart… it’s ready. You’ve already taken the first step. Now it’s time to trust yourself and follow it.”
Arisu let out a breath, feeling a weight lift off his shoulders. For the first time in what felt like forever, he wasn’t overwhelmed by loss or confusion. Instead, he felt clarity, a faint but persistent spark of hope.
“Do you… think I’ll really able find them?” he asked, almost in a whisper, the question more to reassure himself than to seek an answer.
Miku smiled warmly. “Of course. Sekai brings out what you feel most strongly. Your bonds, your love, your memories—they all guide you. You just need to open your heart and follow them.”
Arisu closed his eyes briefly, imagining the faces of his friends, Chishiya’s smirk, Usagi’s smile, Kuina’s laughter, Niragi’s teasing. His chest swelled with longing, but also with determination.
“When I find them… I’ll never let go again,” he whispered. His voice was steady now, filled with a conviction that had been missing for so long.
Miku nodded approvingly, standing gracefully. “Then that’s your path, Arisu. Take the first step, and your heart will guide you the rest of the way.”
Arisu opened his eyes and looked around. The Sekai stretched infinitely before him, colors vivid, landscapes shifting gently with the pulse of his feelings. Somewhere beyond the horizon, he knew his friends were waiting, and Chishiya… too.
A soft breeze rustled through the surreal grass at his feet, carrying the faintest echo of laughter and music. Arisu took a step forward, then another, each one feeling lighter than the last.
“I… I’ll find them,” he murmured, more to himself than anyone else. And with that, he started walking into the shimmering expanse of his Sekai, the path ahead illuminated by the glow of his own heart.