| A Date Beneath the Dragons Glow

Arc 1 | A Detectives End

Phase 1 | The 13th Star Etched In History

The sun dawned on the next day with an air of anticipation, casting a warm and golden glow upon the city of Ryuken, which is named after the Great Dragon that once saved this land.

The air hummed with excitement, and the city seemed to pulse with life as preparations for the final day of the Dragon Festival were in full swing.

Decorations adorned every corner, banners floated in the gentle breeze, and the scent of delicious food wafted through the streets.

Amidst the festivities, Luna and Tsubasa found themselves wandering through the colorful stalls that lined the festival grounds. Luna's eyes were alight with joy, and her laughter seemed to weave into the very fabric of the celebration. Tsubasa's gaze followed Luna's radiant smile, and her heart warmed at the sight of her friend's happiness.

Luna and Tsubasa strolled hand in hand, their steps in sync with the lively rhythm of the festival. Laughter and music filled the air as they immersed themselves in the celebration. The day was filled with a myriad of activities, from street performances that left them in awe to booths offering games and contests that sparked their competitive spirit.

As the afternoon sun hung high in the sky, Luna's laughter filled the air as she expertly hit the target at a dart-throwing booth, winning a stuffed dragon plush.

Tsubasa's grin matched Luna's enthusiasm, and her own attempts were rewarded with an adorable bunny plush. With their prizes in hand, they continued their adventure through the bustling stalls, exploring crafts, trinkets, and treasures from different realms.

As the day wore on, they found themselves drawn to a food stall adorned with colorful banners and fragrant aromas. Tsubasa's stomach rumbled with anticipation as they indulged in an array of delectable treats, from savory dumplings to sweet pastries filled with fruits and cream. Their laughter and animated chatter were a testament to the joy they found in each other's company.

Luna's eyes sparkled as she took a bite of a creamy dessert, savoring the flavors. "Isn't this amazing, Tsubasa? I look forward to the Dragon Festival every year." Tsubasa nodded, her mouth full of a delicious pastry.

"It truly is. I've never experienced anything quite like this." As the sun began its descent, casting a warm glow over the city, they decided to take a break near a tranquil pond surrounded by weeping willows. Tsubasa leaned back against a tree, watching the ripples on the water's surface with a serene smile. Luna joined her, resting her head on Tsubasa's shoulder.

"I'm glad you're here with me, Tsubasa. It wouldn't be the same without you." Tsubasa's heart swelled at Luna's words, her fingers gently intertwining with Luna's. "I'm grateful to be here. Thank you for inviting me."

The final day of the Dragon Festival arrived, dawning with a sense of bittersweetness. Luna and Tsubasa spent the day savoring the last moments of the celebration, taking part in dances and lantern lighting ceremonies, and sharing stories with locals and visitors alike.

The city was adorned with a tapestry of colors as lanterns illuminated the night, creating an ethereal atmosphere that seemed to bridge the gap between reality and enchantment. In the heart of the city, stalls and booths lined the streets, offering a plethora of games, treats, and magical artifacts, each vying for attention in the sea of revelry.

Tsubasa and Luna navigated the bustling streets with a sense of wonder. Luna's eyes shone with infectious enthusiasm as she guided Tsubasa through the festivities, their laughter blending with the cheerful clamor of the crowd.

Their first stop was at the Dragon Parade, where an enormous float shaped like a dragon wound its way through the streets. The float was a kaleidoscope of colors, its scales glistening in the sunlight.

Tsubasa marveled at the intricate craftsmanship as dancers in vibrant costumes swirled around the float, their movements an homage to the elements and the legendary dragon, Ryuken. As the parade came to a close, Luna's eyes twinkled mischievously. "Next stop, games and treats!"

Tsubasa grinned, caught up in Luna's contagious enthusiasm. Together, they ventured into a maze of stalls, each offering a different form of entertainment. From games of skill that challenged one's accuracy to fortune-telling booths that promised glimpses into the future, there was no shortage of diversions.

At a booth adorned with shimmering lights, Luna's eyes lit up. "How about a race on the magical ponies?" Tsubasa's brows lifted in surprise, but she couldn't help but chuckle at Luna's enthusiasm. "Sure, why not?"

The magical ponies were a wonder to behold—creatures of enchanted wood and cloth that responded to their rider's thoughts. As Tsubasa and Luna mounted their respective ponies, they exchanged determined glances.

The race was a whirlwind of laughter and competition, with their ponies galloping through the course with a mix of grace and playfulness. Tsubasa's heart raced as Luna's laughter carried on the wind, and she felt a thrill of camaraderie amidst the friendly rivalry. After the race, their appetites led them to a stall where delectable treats were on offer.

Tsubasa savored the flavors of exotic fruits and pastries, her taste buds dancing with delight. Luna's eyes were a reflection of pure happiness, and as they sat together on a bench, Luna's gaze turned contemplative.

"Tsubasa, there's something I've been wanting to show you," Luna said, her voice holding a hint of excitement. Tsubasa's curiosity was piqued. "What is it?"

Luna reached into her bag and pulled out a small box. With a flourish, she opened it, revealing intricately crafted amulets. Each amulet was unique, adorned with symbols that shimmered like stars.

"These are Dragon festival amulets," Luna explained. "They're said to bring luck and protection. I've got one for you." Touched by Luna's gesture, Tsubasa accepted the amulet, feeling its weight in her palm. "Thank you, Luna. This means a lot." As they continued to enjoy the festivities, Tsubasa's eyes caught on a particularly intriguing stall. The booth was unlike the others, shrouded in shadows and veiled in an air of mystery. The banner above reads, "Relics of the Past: Uncover Forgotten Histories."

As the night grew darker, Luna and Tsubasa found themselves at a stall that piqued Tsubasa's curiosity. It was adorned with relics and oddities, each seemingly holding a story of its own. Luna went to get them drinks while Tsubasa approached the stall, her eyes scanning the collection.

"Curious about my wares, dear?" a gravelly voice drawled from behind her. Tsubasa turned to find an old hag with gnarled fingers and wise eyes peering at her with a knowing gaze. "Yes, actually. These relics... seem to hold a history of their own."

The hag chuckled, her eyes twinkling like stars in the night sky. "Ah, they do indeed. Each relic holds a story—some forgotten, some hidden away."

Tsubasa's gaze landed on an old, weathered top hat placed on a velvet cushion. A shiver of recognition ran down her spine, reminding her of the painting she had seen: The 13th Star etched in History.' "This hat... it looks familiar." From the painting it had belonged to that magician-looking person, the most clear and identifiable of the rest in the painting. There was no question that this was the exact same hat. The hag's smile was sly as if she held a secret. "Oh, the stories that he could tell, my dear."

Tsubasa leaned in, her curiosity piqued. "Where did you get it? I've seen something similar in a painting." The hag's gaze locked onto Tsubasa's, her expression intense. "A relic finds its way to where it's meant to be, dear. Perhaps that painting holds more secrets than you know."

Tsubasa's heart quickened, a spark of determination igniting within her. "Tell me more about the hat and about the painting." The hag's chuckle was enigmatic, her fingers curling around a pendant that hung around her neck.

"You have a thirst for knowledge, young one. But sometimes, what you seek is both a blessing and a curse." Before Tsubasa could press further, the hag extended her gnarled hand, revealing a small amulet adorned with a swirling design. "Take this, dear. It might bring you luck on your path."

Tsubasa was puzzled, her fingers brushing against the amulet. "But what about the hat?" The wolf looked up at her, her eyes holding a hint of warning. "Trouble awaits you, my dear. Be cautious, for the shadows are always watching." Tsubasa's brows furrowed, her heart pounding with a mixture of intrigue and unease.

Before she could respond, Luna returned with their drinks, her presence dispelling the heavy air that had settled.

"Did I miss anything?" Luna asked, her gaze shifting between Tsubasa and the old hag. Tsubasa looked back at the stall, but the old hag had disappeared into the night. She turned to Luna, the amulet in her hand a tangible reminder of the encounter. "There was a woman here. She had this amulet for me." Luna's eyes widened in surprise. "That's strange. What did she say?"

Tsubasa recounted the conversation, with Luna's expression growing more concerned with each passing word. "That sounds ominous," Luna murmured. "But don't let it bother you, Tsubasa. We'll face whatever comes our way together."

As the sun began to set, casting a warm palette of colors across the sky, Luna and Tsubasa found themselves once again at the heart of the festival. The final day was a crescendo of magic and merriment, with performances that seemed to blur the lines between reality and fantasy. The grand spectacle of the dragon-shaped float was the highlight of the evening, its scales shimmering with a brilliance that reflected the spirit of Ryuken.

Luna's eyes sparkled with awe as the float made its way through the city streets, accompanied by a symphony of music and cheers. Tsubasa's gaze shifted between the float and Luna's radiant expression, a sense of contentment settling within her. As the float passed by, Luna turned to Tsubasa, her luminous eyes alight with excitement. "Isn't it beautiful, Tsubasa? This festival is truly a celebration of unity and magic." Tsubasa's heart swelled as she looked at Luna, feeling a connection that transcended words. "Yes, it is. And I'm glad I got to experience it with you."

As the final moments of the festival drew near, Tsubasa's thoughts briefly returned to the encounter with the stranger at the stall. The warning lingered like a whisper in her mind, a reminder that challenges awaited her.

But for now, under the radiant moon and the colorful lights of the festival, she chose to revel in the joy and magic that surrounded her. The amulet gleamed in Tsubasa's hand, a symbol of a path she was determined to follow, no matter where it might lead.

The Dragon Festival had brought joy and celebration, but beneath the surface, threads of uncertainty and intrigue were beginning to weave their way into Tsubasa's journey. Her intuition about the painting back in Theresia's mansion was oozing with abnormal energy. Part of her wanted to go back and reinvestigate that painting even deeper, and she regretted that she overlooked it.

Tsubasa grimaced for a bit, but Luna's positive, contagious energy swept that all away. They hadn't known each other for long, but there was a feeling that Tsubasa just got along so well with Luna that it felt like she knew her for many years, it just felt so natural for Tsubasa to be like this around her.

Luna and Tsubasa stood on a hill overlooking the city, their fingers intertwined as they gazed up at the night sky. Above them, bursts of dragon-themed fireworks erupted, painting the canvas of darkness with vibrant colors that mirrored the scales of the mythical creature they celebrated.

"Isn't it beautiful, Tsubasa?" Luna's voice was filled with wonder, and her eyes alighted with joy. Tsubasa's lips curled into a smile as she watched the explosions of light and color dance across the sky. "It's more than I could have imagined." Luna leaned against Tsubasa's shoulder, a contented sigh escaping her lips.

"I'm glad you're here with me, Tsubasa. This festival wouldn't have been the same without you." Tsubasa's heart swelled with warmth, and the moment felt like a dream she never wanted to end. "I'm grateful to be here, Luna. It's been an incredible experience." Luna turned to Tsubasa, her eyes sparkling mischievously. "You know, Tsubasa, we've spent quite a lot of time together during this festival."

Tsubasa's cheeks tinged with a faint blush as Luna's words hung in the air. "Well, yes, we have." Luna's smile grew cheeky, and she teased, "Some might even call it a series of dates."

Tsubasa's blush deepened, her heart racing as Luna's playful words caught her off guard. "I mean, it's not like that! We were just enjoying the festival." Luna's laughter was like tinkling bells, her expression teasing and fond. "Oh, Tsubasa, you're so adorable when you get flustered." Tsubasa's defensive instincts kicked in, and she crossed her arms, her embarrassment turning into a touch of annoyance. "I'm not flustered. And we're not on a date!"

Luna's laughter only grew, her eyes sparkling with mirth. "Alright, alright, I won't tease you anymore. But you have to admit, we've had a wonderful time together." Tsubasa's irritation softened as she met Luna's gaze, her heart softening at the sincerity in her eyes. "Yes, Luna, we have."

As the dragon-themed fireworks continued to light up the sky, Luna wrapped her arms around Tsubasa in a gentle embrace. Tsubasa's initial defensiveness melted away, replaced by a feeling of warmth and contentment. They stood there, nestled in each other's arms, as the colors and sparks reflected in their eyes. "You know, Tsubasa," Luna began her voice tender, "I'm grateful for these moments we've shared.

Whether you want to call them dates or not, they've been special to me." Tsubasa's heart fluttered at Luna's words, her own defenses crumbling as she leaned into the embrace. "They've been special to me too, Luna." The fireworks continued to light up the night sky, each explosion a testament to the magic and beauty of the Dragon Festival. As the stars glistened overhead and the city below bathed in light, Luna and Tsubasa held onto each other, the unspoken emotions between them as vibrant as the colors in the sky.

Thus the Dragon Festival came to a close.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

High above the sprawling Dragonheart city of Ryuken, a towering spire reached towards the heavens, seemingly suspended in the air by some mystical force. At its apex, two figures stood gazing down upon the bustling city below, their presence an enigma in the twilight.

Delphinus, with eyes as deep and tranquil as the ocean, leaned against the spire's edge. His silver hair flowed like liquid silver in the breeze, and his demeanor exuded an aura of calm wisdom. Beside him, Ryuosuke stood, shrouded in darkness. A hood concealed most of his features, leaving only a glimpse of his mouth and nose visible. His eyes gleamed with an unsettling light, a stark contrast to Delphinus's serene gaze.

As the evening sun cast its final golden hues over Ryuken, Delphinus spoke in a voice that held the weight of ages. "In three months' time, the blue moon shall grace our skies," he said, his words carrying a prophetic resonance. "Its appearance marks a significant turning point, one that will shape the destinies of many."

Ryuosuke's lips curled into a sinister smile, a stark contrast to his concealed face. He held in his hand an exact replica of a painting known as 'The 13th Star Etched In History'. The painting depicted a celestial alignment of stars, with one star standing out distinctly as the 13th. The atmosphere around Ryuosuke seemed to grow heavier as he muttered, "Tsubasa is the key. She is the 13th Star."

Delphinus turned his gaze toward Ryuosuke, his eyes holding a mixture of concern and contemplation. "Tsubasa... the 13th Star?" he questioned, his voice a melodious echo in the stillness of the evening. "The threads of fate weave a complex tapestry indeed."

Ryuosuke's grip tightened on the painting, and a sense of dark anticipation emanated from him. "Her predecessor's soul still lives," he hissed, his words laden with a malevolent intent. "The bloodline is strong, and the power it wields could reshape worlds."

A shiver ran down Delphinus's spine as he contemplated the implications of Ryuosuke's words. The past intertwined with the present, and an ancient legacy cast its shadows upon the future. The weight of history bore down upon them, an unseen force guiding their every step.

Ryuosuke's voice took on an almost feverish tone, his eyes gleaming with a twisted excitement. "What fun it will be to test her limits," he mused aloud, his words a blend of anticipation and malice. "I want to see if she's truly grown stronger. The wait has been unbearable. Do you not share my eagerness, Delphinus?"

Delphinus's gaze remained fixed on the city below, his thoughts a sea of contemplation. He did not respond to Ryuosuke's question, leaving the darkness-shrouded figure to his own musings.

As if unperturbed by Delphinus's silence, Ryuosuke continued to peer downward, his sinister expression unchanging. "This is only the beginning," he muttered, his voice carrying an unsettling certainty. "The stars have aligned, and the stage is set. The grand performance is about to commence."

With those words, the two figures stood in contemplative silence, their destinies woven together by the threads of fate. The city of Ryuken buzzed below, unaware of the cosmic forces that converged high above its spires. The blue moon's impending appearance signaled a convergence of events that would shape the lives of many, a tapestry of light and darkness, hope and despair.

And as the night deepened, the spire stood as a silent sentinel, its pointed tip piercing the sky. Delphinus and Ryuosuke remained as enigmatic and inscrutable as the stars themselves, their roles in the unfolding drama yet to be fully revealed. In the heart of Ryuken, the city of Dragonheart, the echoes of a legacy danced on the cusp of reality, waiting for the curtain to rise on the grand cosmic spectacle that awaited them all.

"Will you still solve the mystery?

Will you?

I don't mind playing this game again"

End of Phase 1 | The 13th Star Etched In History