Chasing DAYBREAK - Vivid DAYBREAK's 1st Anniversary Event

Coming soon...

Chapter One

The Daybreak Sekai was no doubt busier than usual. It was alive with activity as people bustled about, setting up decorations and arranging tables for what is the Sekai’s biggest event of the year, Vivid DAYBREAK's first anniversary. And in our humble abode, Frontline Café was brimming with anticipation, its windows adorned with colorful galaxy banners and the scent of freshly brewed coffee permeating the air. As it was the first anniversary ever, the owners and company were even more boisterous than usual, but that didn't faze them. Genuine joy and laughter echoed throughout the space as the café's staff worked side by side, shoulders brushing. Their camaraderie was evident and they were determined to put together a celebration that would surely be one for the books. In a secluded booth tucked away in a corner, Luka and Kaito were hard at work stuffing merchandise into their respective goodie bags. Despite the hustle and bustle around them, the two remained undeterred and focused on their task, making significant progress in their preparations. However, this was short lived. Suddenly, Luka stood up with an unreadable expression before dashing into the kitchen. A few minutes later, she returned with a wide grin, hinting at something exciting in store."Hey, I've got an idea for the anniversary event," Luka exclaimed, her excitement evident as she swayed her head, side to side. Kaito didn’t look up. More like he couldn't. He was too engrossed in packing merchandise into the goodie bags, making sure each one included his own painstakingly handmade VDB Miku phone charms. And he’ll be damned if he left one out."What's your—" But before Katio could finish his sentence, Luka slammed a large bouquet of Morning Glory flowers onto the table. He stared at the pile of flowers before returning his eyes to Luka."Alright, so what's your idea?" he repeated, his attention now fully on Luka, though he remained uncertain about what she had in mind.Luka's enthusiasm was infectious as she chirped, "Flower crowns!""Flower crowns?" Kaito furrowed his brow in confusion, then picked up a stem and sniffed it. He leaned back, pleasantly surprised by the scent."Sounds interesting, I’m in, but I have no clue how to make one," Kaito admitted. He was sure his attempt would not look good on the first try."Don't worry, I've got you covered," Luka assured him, pulling out a premade flower crown and handing it to Kaito. As he examined it, he was impressed by Luka's craftsmanship and decided to try it on, earning a giggle from Luka."Thanks, and sorry in advance because I’ll be bugging you a lot," Kaito said with a nod, as they continued their preparations for the anniversary. Luka patiently observed him through each step. Unknowingly, Kaito made no attempt to remove the crown from his head during this process.As the opening of the anniversary drew near, excitement filled the air, and it was clear that it was getting the attention of the people outside. Passersby outside the café caught glimpses of Kaito and Luka diligently working away in a corner booth, adding to the tranquil ambiance of the scene, holding a feeling of repose. Inside, the café exuded a cozy atmosphere, adorned with colorful decor. The wall boasted a breathtaking mural depicting a sunrise, symbolizing the warmth and teamwork of the café's staff. The space was buzzing with life that looked like it was not going to quiet down anytime soon.The flower crowns, intended as gifts for all attendees to wear during the anniversary celebration, motivated Kaito and Luka to pour extra effort into their creation, ensuring they were as enchanting as possible. The prospect of seeing their creations adorning the heads of guests fueled their determination.However, this also ignited Kaito's perfectionism. He was aware of his limited skills in arts and crafts, but he hadn't anticipated struggling to this extent.Kaito attempted to replicate Luka's actions step by step, but he struggled to discern which ends to tie and which loops to secure. As frustration mounted, he observed Luka effortlessly crafting the flower crowns with the skill of a seasoned artisan. Caught up in his own struggle, Kaito didn't notice Luka's gaze until she spotted his half-finished crown and his comically intense concentration. Her smile was her response.Kaito mumbled to himself, “Hold on, I almost got this...and, voila—” A resounding twig snap could be heard. “Never mind, I don't.”Luka assured him, “No worries, I can go over it as many times as you want. We’ll finish it up in no time.” Luka placed her hands over Kaito’s hands from across the table to slowly guide him through the flower crown assembling process. She gently maneuvered his hands through each step, seamlessly teaching Kaito how to put together a crown without any mistakes or loose ends."Make sure you tie this end tightly and loop this part here so that it's snug around the head. That way, they won't slip off," Luka instructed Kaito, who followed her guidance attentively. With practice, Kaito began to grasp the technique. Just took a little bit of trial and error."Thanks, Luka. I really appreciate your help," Kaito expressed gratefully. He couldn’t help but feel a bit embarrassed about failing his first attempt but still appreciated Luka’s patience nonetheless.The front doorbell jingled, signaling the entrance of a brunette who quietly stepped into the café. She greeted the other staff members with a warm smile. However, Kaito and Luka were so deeply engrossed in their tasks that they didn't even notice her presence until she stood directly in front of them."Hi, you guys!" Meiko exclaimed cheerfully. Luka and Kaito jumped in their seats at the sudden voice. They immediately recognized the familiar and comforting tone as belonging to Meiko, one of the founders of Frontline Café. They turned their heads to see Meiko already walking away to put on her apron. She went straight to work, helping prepare the tables for opening and setting down chairs.“Jeez, you scared us, Meiko.” He rubbed his head sheepishly. However, Meiko didn’t respond to Kaito’s comment. Rather she didn’t even hear him. Meiko seemed lost in thought, repeatedly wiping the same spot on the table in front of her for longer than usual. Kaito and Luka obviously noticed this and shared a mutual glance. The two began nudging each other back and forth, ushering the other to ask the big question. Eventually, Kaito gave in because Luka’s nudges were starting to hurt. He pouted before relenting.“Meiko, what’s on your mind?” He asked.She stopped for a second before resuming, 'Hm? Oh, nothing. Just got some stuff on my mind, but nothing worth mentioning. Anyways, what are you guys up to?' The two decided not to press further for now, as it was clear that Meiko was deflecting the question."We're making flower crowns for the anniversary!" Luka giggled, the initial excitement returning to her. They both proudly showed Meiko their efforts, displaying a variety of beautifully crafted flower crowns. Meiko genuinely expressed joy and appreciation for their help."Absolutely! We're hustling to get everything sorted," Kaito chimed in enthusiastically. "And it really feels like everything's falling into place. We're almost finished with the flower crowns, and then we'll do a sweep to figure out what else needs tweaking.""Kaito, perhaps we should kick off with spray painting and putting up the streamers?" Luka suggested, her voice brimming with ideas."Great idea! Your artistic touch always adds that extra flair. I'm looking forward to seeing your creations," Kaito replied, a genuine smile playing on his lips. Luka's eyes lit up with appreciation at the compliment."I can't wait to see Miku's reaction to the flower crowns. I'm sure she'll adore them the most," Kaito remarked, a smile spreading across his face. As Miku's name came up, it triggered a thought that had been lingering in Meiko's mind. Her expression shifted to one of concern as she turned to Kaito and Luka, inquiring about Miku. She thought now was the perfect opportunity to ask.“Speaking of Miku, have you two also noticed something odd about Miku’s behavior recently?” Meiko's voice cut through the air, drawing the attention of Luka and Kaito like a sudden gust of wind. Their expressions suddenly turned serious.Luka's fingers moved deftly, weaving a crown, her eyes fixed on her work, while Kaito leaned against his palms, his brow furrowed in thought as he wracked his brain for clues about Miku's recent behavior."Yeah, I've picked up on it," Luka responded, a tinge of concern coloring her voice. "She's been distant, more so than usual. When I asked if she was okay, she just brushed me off."Meiko's brows knitted together in concern. "Brushed it off, how?""She seemed irritated, insisted she was fine," Luka explained softly, hurt evident in her tone. "It's strange because she never shuts me out like that. And this is the first time she has ever done that to me so I decided not to press her about it. I wasn’t sure what to do, to be honest." Silence hung heavy in the air as they absorbed Luka's words.Meiko nodded in understanding, understanding the gravity of the situation. "Maybe it's the pressure of the Daybreak Sekai anniversary getting to her," Kaito suggested, breaking the tense silence. "Being the founder, she's got a lot on her plate.""But even so, she'd usually open up to us," Meiko countered, her voice tinged with confusion.As they deliberated, Meiko's eyes flickered towards the dwindling supplies for the anniversary decorations, realization dawning upon her. Meiko thought it would be best to change the topic for now.
"Anyways, it looks like we're running low on supplies," she pointed out, her voice snapping the trio back to the present. “Streamers, merch, and spray paint, yeah?” She dug through their box of decorations, taking inventory.Luka and Kaito shared a swift, knowing look before nodding in unison. They then turned to Meiko, eyes twinkling. like two partners in crime. In their eagerness, their heads inadvertently bumped together, eliciting a chuckle from Meiko at their synchronized enthusiasm."Could you grab some more party poppers as well while we finish up here?" they asked in unison. And right on cue, Meiko chuckled at the two’s antics.“Yeah, yeah, just hold down the fort while I’m gone, you two.” Although Meiko’s back was turned, Kaito and Luka saluted in response.Though Meiko was reluctant to let go of their discussion about Miku, she understood the importance of the anniversary preparations. With a determined nod, she made a mental note to revisit the topic later, determined to get to the bottom of Miku's mysterious behavior.

Chapter Two

Meiko stood alone within the Supernova Studio, even though she had promised Luka and Kaito that she would gather the necessary supplies: various spray paints and streamers. Yet, her true intention was to sort out her thoughts about Miku. Slowly, Meiko began to move around, gathering the supplies.As she worked, Meiko couldn't shake off her concerns about Miku's recent behavior. Deep in thought, Meiko considered what might be troubling Miku, focusing on Orion's Oasis, a place of great significance to her.Orion's Oasis had once been a popular church that the four of them attended together when they were just starting their lives within the Sekai. It was a gothic, fenced church building that loomed over the area where it stood. Over time, the building's structural integrity had begun to deteriorate. Cracks marred the walls, blending into the dark architecture, while leaning pillars struggled to support the ceiling. The beautiful mural of the galaxy that the group cherished adorned one of the walls. As they each ventured into different paths in life, fewer devout individuals visited the Oasis, leaving mainly the four of them to occasionally return.The mural held a special place in the hearts of the group, especially Miku. It was the first thing she saw when she arrived in the Sekai, and it was something she held dear alongside her friends. The memories made next to and for the mural were priceless to her, shaping her connection to it. It had become a significant part of her identity within the Sekai, recognized by all as a symbol of her long-standing presence.Interrupting her thoughts, Meiko realized, "It has something to do with the mural for sure." She gathered the needed supplies and arranged them on a table in the center of the studio, ensuring she had everything. Taking a moment, she sat at the kitchen counter, trying to collect herself.Meiko popped a hard candy in her mouth, hoping the sugar would distract her. It began to dissolve quickly, yet Meiko still felt a lingering bitter taste in her mouth. Exhaling a sigh, Meiko reached for her phone. She intended to send Miku a text but as she unlocked her device, she discovered that a conversation was already unfolding in their shared group chat.She scrolled back attempting to read all the messages, but each time she reached the beginning of the conversation, a new one arrived, pushing her back to the newest message at the bottom of the conversation. After roughly half a minute of this futile struggle, she gave up with another sigh.Meiko: "Guys, what's going on?"After sending the text message, Meiko's eyes darted to the screen, where Kaito and Luka’s texts seemed to pick up a tone of urgency. Her heart raced and a sinking feeling settled in her stomach. She had a suspicion about what was wrong but didn’t want to believe it.Meiko waited with bated breath for someone to fill her in on whatever was happening. After what were possibly the longest few seconds of Meiko's life, a message from Kaito appeared on the screen, confirming her fears.Kaito: "So, guys, I think we might have a problem."Meiko: "What kind of problem?”Luka: "Meiko, have you seen this yet?"Luka sent a link and Meiko opened it immediately, which brought her to a tweet with a video embedded.Star (she/they)- @starstrider024
Caught this video at Orion's Oasis today. Can't believe Miku thinks she can just close off public spaces whenever she wants.Meiko barely skimmed the contents of the tweet before hitting play on the video. The footage was blurry but unmistakably showed Miku activating the security gate, a feature meant for emergencies only. As the gate ground to a sudden stop, Miku is seen swiftly pulling out a roll of caution tape, its bright yellow color stark against the metal gate, marking an obnoxious X. In a fleeting moment, she briefly turned her head towards the camera and gave it a cold, piercing stare before the video abruptly cut off.Meiko’s stomach dropped.This seriously can’t be happening. A pit developed in her stomach as she played the video again as if it would change the second time she watched it. She watched the video again, still in disbelief, before reopening the group chat. No new messages had come in since Kaito and Luka had chosen to wait for her, but as soon as she started typing, the messages flooded in once more.Kaito: I heard the talk that Miku was chasing people away from the galaxy mural, but this...Meiko: I can't believe she'd go this far.Kaito: Maybe something was wrong in Orion's Oasis? There could have been a security incident or something.Luka: I don't think so... did you see the way she glared at the camera?Luka: —and I think she rolled her eyes!Meiko: This is not like her. Even if there was something wrong, she should have told us.
She was the one who said we had to decide together to shut a public place down.Meiko: And, as much as I want to give her the benefit of the doubt, this fits with her chasing people away from the oasis.Luka: Just chasing people away was bad enough, but this is…Meiko could practically imagine Luka's worried face as she read her messages. The way she bit her lip like she always did when she was nervous. Unknowingly, Meiko mirrored her expression, her worry evident. The candy from earlier had dissolved, leaving a bitter taste in her mouth. Despite this, Meiko didn't dwell on her feelings for long, quickly resolving to take action before the situation worsened.

The messages flashed across the screen like a relentless storm, each one battering Miku's resolve.She leaned against a wall in Orion's Oasis, her eyes scanning the words but her fingers refusing to respond. With a decisive tap, she activated the "do not disturb" mode, then powered off her phone and slipped it into her pocket. Sliding down the wall, she flopped into a seated position, her head tilting back as she gazed up at the starry mural. A heavy sigh escaped her lips, a mixture of frustration and resignation.They just didn't understand. How could they? The more time she spent processing this, the more frustrated she got.A searing, inexplicable pain gnawed at her chest throughout this ordeal. It was an agonizing sensation she couldn't even begin to articulate, and of course, they wouldn’t understand. How could she explain that a part of herself had been severed for some time now, with no physical evidence to show for it, only her deep gut feeling? The more she dwelled on it, the more she felt as though she were losing her mind. Miku scratched her head in frustration before scrutinizing the galaxy mural. What used to be the most eye-catching attraction in the Oasis, and perhaps even in the entire Sekai, was now a shadow of its former self. The paint was dull and faded out entirely in most places, and the very stone it was painted on was chipping. Most of the current residents of the Sekai probably don't even remember when this mural came into existence, Miku thought, a bitter expression briefly crossing her face. She remembered it vividly, the memory almost as bright in her mind as the colors of the mural when it was created. Born like a shooting star. She gazed at the mural as a sense of nostalgia washed over her. A time before the plastered yellow warning signs and caution tape, a time before the eerie silence in the Oasis.

Chapter Three

Meiko hastily shoved her phone into her pocket. She threw on her jacket and swiped her keys off the counter in one fell swoop. She hurried and picked up the pace, stuffing her keys into her pocket. The decorations she promised Luka and Kaito paled in comparison to the mounting concern over Miku's spiraling behavior.There was no use dwelling on her friend’s inexplicable behavior. Meiko’s mind was a whirlwind of questions. She knew that Miku was reckless, but she wasn’t the type to act out unless there was a good reason. And to this extent? It just wasn’t really adding up. The more she thought about it, the more her heart ached with worry. She just hoped she was okay. With a renewed sense of determination, Meiko quickened her pace, her mind set on one thing: finding her friend and figuring out what was causing her to act this way.As dusk began to set in, Meiko turned a corner, and Orion’s Oasis came into view. The old church looked as mythical as ever in the orange and pink hues of the setting sun. Vines and ivy crawled across the front and sides of the building, almost seeming alive as they moved alongside the warm evening breeze. The windows, some of them broken, were veiled in a layer of dust and streaked with the remnants of rain that had long since dried. The last rays of sunshine for the day illuminated the yellow-ish white clock above the entrance, highlighting its golden numbers and clock hands. It was a sight to see for sore eyes, usually.But it was as she had seen online, perhaps worse.The entire street leading up to Orion's Oasis had been cordoned off with yellow and black security tape. Some people dared to examine it closer, ripping one or two tapes in the process, while others stomped away in frustration after being chased out.“Why would she do all this?” A bystander muttered.“Is there something dangerous going on in the Oasis?” Another hushed whisper.“I don’t know but it doesn’t seem fair to just kick everyone out without an explanation like that!”There was clear tension in the air and it cast a shadow of uncertainty over the crowd. The rows of tape were accompanied by equally unwelcoming signs of “Keep out” or “No entry” plastered together on the dimly lit street. With a determined frown, she squared her shoulders and marched towards the gate. The bystanders could do nothing but watch in awe. The chatter paused as Meiko climbed over the first few rows of tape. She ducked past a handful more and eventually disappeared from their line of sight.Having successfully disentangled herself from the tape, Meiko looked back towards the crowd. The chatter had started up once more, this time much louder than before but Meiko paid it no mind.No one dared to breach the boundary until now.She continued to rip off the tape as she made her way to the decrepit building. However, she decided at that moment to leave some of the tapes untouched. Perhaps it was for the best if the visitors didn’t have full access yet. Not when Miku was ready to throw them out again at a moment's notice.Fortunately, the more Meiko ventured into the building, the less tape there was. Miku must not have had the time to set up more, or she thought what she had put up earlier was enough to keep out the visitors. Either way, Meiko was eternally grateful that she could walk without being stopped every 2 seconds. In all the time she had the fortune to live in the Daybreak Sekai, Meiko had never seen Orion’s Oasis as deserted as it was now. It felt... lonely.The whispers of the people faded out of earshot. A few paper cups and newspapers were scattered on the floor. It was clear that Miku didn’t even give the visitors a chance to collect themselves before chasing them out of the building. And the silence that followed was deafening, broken only by the distant sound of Meiko's footsteps.Once more Meiko found herself tearing through tape. The more she ripped away, the less her arms wanted to obey her. The tape appeared tougher with each tear she made and finally, she stood before the barrier she and her friends had seen online.The iron security gate towered high over Meiko. It was an eyesore compared to the beauty of Orion’s Oasis. Meiko scrutinized the gate. It might be enough to keep out ordinary visitors, but definitely not her. After a moment, she spotted a security keypad further to the right of the gate, asking for a code.“Alright, no time to waste…”, Meiko mumbled away as she typed in the first 4 digits. With a beep tone, the sound of rattling metal filled the air as the gate lowered itself, clearing the path. The code was 3939.The wind howled through the holes in the building’s roof accompanied by the sound of footsteps crunching over debris and broken glass. Gentle rustling of vines and ivy adding to the cacophony. The last lingering rays of sunlight cast a haunting glow on the farthest corner of the room, where Miku sat, her back turned away from her friend.Miku remained still, seemingly unaffected by the sound of Meiko’s arrival.“Why’d you tear the tape down?“ she spat out, “–And the gate? Do you even realize how much work it was to put up all this?“ Her voice echoed through the building, her voice teeming with venom.“Yeah, I‘m sure it took you ages, considering the labyrinth of tape I had to navigate through.“ Meiko paused for a second before crossing her arms, “why are you here, Miku?“Miku stiffened at her question, her eyes narrowing as she slowly met Meiko‘s gaze.“I just needed some time for myself. Nothing you need to worry about.“ Miku whipped her head back around. She snatched a nearby twig and began to aimlessly pick at the ground.A thought manifested in Meiko‘s mind as she pondered the events of the past few days. The people Miku had chased out of the Oasis, the security measures she had implemented, and her overall absence for the past few days. It has been the strangest she has ever acted in all the time Meiko has been living in the Sekai.“Well,” Meiko started. “your actions say otherwise. You haven’t exactly been the most discreet about your behavior recently. And I do mean well when I say that.““So what?” Miku spoke a little louder this time, not bothering to spare her friend a glance. “Everyone‘s feeling a bit under the weather every now and then. Kaito did too recently, so why is my behavior such a problem all of a sudden?““Because you‘re shutting us out. Not just your friends, but this time—the residents living here. The people you love so dearly. And that’s not like you. So we— both the residents and your friends - would like to know what’s wrong if you’re willing to share, you know.“The moonlight cast long shadows across the room, illuminating both their figures. In the dim light, Miku fidgeted with her hair, lips trembling slightly as if searching for the right words to say. Yet she remained silent. Only the gentle rustling of leaves occupied her silence.“I understand this might be difficult for you, but you don't have to tell me everything right now.“ Meiko gently moved beside Miku, their shoulders brushing as they shared the same breathtaking view.“Take all the time you need, and share with me only what you feel comfortable with. Just know that I’m here for you, ready to listen and support you in any way I can; so that we can fix this little mess you made together.“ Her smile was soft but radiated warmth and understanding, a silent promise of unwavering support.Miku shot up at this, her fists clenched in frustration, her heart pounding with a mix of anger and disbelief. The subtle accusation stung like a slap to the face.“Mess? I didn’t make a mess! I'm trying my best to— to protect it!” Miku's words came out in a rush, her breath catching as the weight of her emotions hung heavy in the air. Meiko's eyes widened at her outburst.
There was a moment of tense silence before Meiko broke it.
“Protect it?” Meiko repeated, her tone puzzled. “Orion’s Oasis? Miku, but I don’t think it needs protection. Your intentions are good, but I’m not sure if that's the right way to go about it. We can gather everyone and come up with a plan, like we always do. We’re always in this together.” Meiko's voice held genuine concern, her eyes searching Miku's troubled expression for answers as Miku avoided her gaze.Miku shook her head, strands of hair falling across her face.
“It's not— It's not just about the Oasis itself,” she began, her voice faltering as she struggled to find the right words.“Anyways, I’m fine. I’ll deal with it.” Miku dismissed, hoping to divert Meiko's attention away from her turmoil.“Not when you're acting like this, Miku,” Meiko replied, her tone gentle yet firm, determined to reach through to her friend. She remained patient, her kind smile shining through the dim light.“Like what?” She deflected, her back still turned from her peer. A small pain cut through Meiko‘s heart at Miku’s callousness. Meiko sighed, slowly taking a few steps forward on the crunching floor, a gentle wind guiding her steps.“Well, we've seen you put up all those security measures around Orion’s Oasis. You even put up the gate. Didn't we agree only to do that in case of some emergency?”“Well, I mean there is an emergen—”
Miku‘s body finally turned towards Meiko, her troubled eyes meeting the other’s gentle gaze.“And?” Meiko held her gaze, determined to get to the bottom of this.“You don't– Never mind, you wouldn’t understand!” She snapped, her tone seething. And Meiko could only stare back in shock at her friend’s emotional outburst. A blanket of silence covered the room. Miku didn’t mean to raise her voice, but her patience was waning.“But we would like to understand, Miku. That’s all we are asking for. Just an explanation.”Meiko took a step towards her as she expressed her heartfelt concern. At the last step, Miku mumbled something and Meiko stopped in her footsteps. The wind and the rustling of leaves drowned out her words.“Could you repeat that for me?”Miku inhaled sharply, her lips trembling, heaving herself up so that she stood properly again. Her watery eyes couldn’t bear to move up from the dusty floor, to move up and meet Meiko.“It's fading.” Her voice quivered, threatening to burst out into sobs. She gestured weakly to the wall behind her.And then she recognized it, right next to Miku on the wall. The nightly shadows in the building had blocked it from Meiko's vision prior to her closing the distance between them.It was our beloved mural.The weathered mural adorned with earthy brown clouds, lending it a rustic charm, twinkling shooting stars adding a touch of celestial elegance. But admist the fading paint, one cloud stood out, concealing a humble but lonely crescent moon. Even she could feel that something was amiss. Meiko frowned, walking a bit closer and slid her hand across the artwork gently. Meiko stifled a gasp, her hands was smudged with paint. Just like Miku had claimed, the colors of the mural began to fade away.Almost half of the mural had disappeared by now.

Chapter Four

Realization dawned on Meiko. Meiko sighed, kneeling to hold Miku's hands gently, warmth passing between them. Finally, Meiko turned to Miku."You know, Miku," Meiko began, prompting Miku's curious gaze."...I know you love your alone time," Meiko continued, as Miku nodded slowly. "...but not enough to start giving Elsa a run for her money."“Seriously?” Miku deadpanned.“Hm, yeah.” Meiko grinned.A snicker escaped Meiko, her laughter growing as she watched the bewildered expression grow on Miku's face. Yet, amidst their shared amusement, there lingered a hint of solemnity, the weight of unspoken thoughts hovered in the air."The mural has been here since I arrived," Miku said, her voice tinged with a hint of sadness. "But seeing it fade now— I don't understand why it's happening.""Miku," Meiko began, crouching down in front of her, "we may not be entirely human, but we share many human traits. Humans thrive on connection and community. Isolating yourself won't solve anything, just as pushing people away won't bring you any closer to understanding."Meiko reached out to place a comforting hand on Miku's head. "Think of it like this," she continued, her voice gentle. "Daybreak Sekai has grown since I first appeared. We're a family now, and the mural—it's telling you it's time to let go and embrace the future."Miku raised her head, tears glistening in her eyes. "But how do I move on?" she asked, her voice trembling with uncertainty. "It’s only been a year. How do I walk into a future I don't know?"Meiko's gaze softened, her words carrying a sense of reassurance. "You don't have to have all the answers now," she said, her voice steady. "But trust that the future holds something beautiful for you. Embrace it, and you'll find your way."A stray tear fell down her face, as Meiko stared at her with a bittersweet expression and a warm smile. Miku’s hands quickly moved as she aggressively wiped her teary eyes to no avail. The emotions overwhelmed her and left her weeping into her hands. Meiko moved closer and pulled Miku into a warm hug. After several minutes, Miku's sobs began to subside, the intensity of her emotions gradually ebbing away until only quiet sniffles remained.She felt anguish.“Miku, there are many things we don't understand, but that doesn't mean we have to stay in a static state without ever moving, no?” Meiko said as her hands began to comb through Miku's hair tenderly."Our future stretches out before us like an endless expanse of stars, each one holding the promise of something new, something unforeseen or new," Meiko said, her words carrying a sense of wonder. "Don't you feel the urge to explore, to discover what lies beyond the horizon?"Meiko went silent waiting for her response. Miku’s quiet sniffles echoed through the unkempt church, the night silent. Glossy eyes stared at Meiko as if her mind was trying to close in and pick apart every part of their conversation.Meiko stood up and held out her hand.With a grin, she explained, "You see now, don't you? Just like isolation can't restore the mural, the past can't be resurrected, no matter how desperately we wish for it. But that doesn't mean we can't hold onto the warmth of the memories it left behind."Suddenly, Miku's world was no longer black and white. Slowly, she released her knees, a glimmer of hope lit up her eyes. She timidly reached for Meiko's hand, pulling herself up with newfound understanding. Meiko reciprocated, drawing Miku into a comforting embrace, their bond strengthening with each heartbeat. Miku clung to Meiko like a child seeking solace from a mother's embrace."I might not have it all figured out yet," Miku admitted, her voice hoarse from tears, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. "But I'll get there eventually. Because I have everyone by my side, right?"There was a moment of a comforting silence despite Miku's rhetorical question."Please tell me I'm right, processing my emotions is not exactly forte.""Yes, silly."The two giggled in each others arms.In that moment of shared understanding and love, Miku found reassurance in the knowledge that she was not alone in her journey of healing and growth. I guess she could look at it like a trust fall. It was abundantly clear to her that it would take time to understand that with the love and guidance of her friends, she knew she truly could navigate the challenges that lie ahead and emerge stronger than before. It just might have taken a bit of time for her to realize this. And some gross sobbing—but mostly, time.

The truck's engine hummed as Kaito and Luka barreled through the quiet night, the darkness around them broken only by the twinkling stars above. Luka's gaze flitted between the sky and the road ahead, unable to fully take in the celestial beauty as they sped onward. She sat at the edge of her seat in excitement.“Oh, this is such a sick idea.” Kaito bobbed his head to the radio as held the steering wheel with one hand. “But you sure there isn’t another way to get in Orion’s Oasis?”“Nope, this is the only way. Now step on it! ” Luka dismissed nonchalantly. Kaito shrugged in response.As they ventured deeper into the night, the road grew increasingly rugged and uneven, the truck jostling over rocks and potholes with each passing mile. A distant speck on the horizon gradually loomed larger, taking shape as they drew nearer—a grand church, imposing and majestic even in its deteriorated state. Despite its weathered appearance, it exuded a whimsical aura that gave them goosebumps each time.Kaito's resolve remained unwavering as he got closer to the gate obstructing their path, its rusted metal stark against the moonlit night. Fixing his gaze on the barrier ahead, he steeled himself for what lay ahead. Ignoring any cautionary signs, he clenched his jaw in determination, ready to plow through the gate."Alright, buckle up and hold on tight, Luka!" Kaito announced, his voice tinged with urgency. "We're about to encounter some turbulence.""But that's for airplanes!" Luka protested."Does that really matter right now!?" Kaito shot back, exasperated."Yes! I love airplanes! And that's factually incorrect!" Luka insisted with balled up fists, her excitement for aviation overshadowing the imminent danger."Im about to deliberately cause a collision and this is what you have to say!?""Beep, beep coming through!" Luka ignored, leaning out the window."I—never mind!" He relented. "Anyways, we're crashing through this gate, so brace for impact!" Kaito declared, determination hardening his tone."Aye aye, captain!" Luka responded, bracing herself for the impact by clinging to her seat."Hold on tight!"
Kaito slammed his foot on the gas pedal and the engine roared loudly. The truck hurtled towards the barrier with unstoppable force.As the truck thundered closer, Kaito's grip tightened on the steering wheel, his knuckles whitening with the intensity of his resolve. With a surge of adrenaline, he ignored the warning signs and his focus was honed solely on the gate standing between them and their destination. With a deafening roar and metal clanging, the truck crashed headlong into the metal barrier, the impact sending shockwaves rippling through the night air. The gate buckled and groaned under the force of the collision, metal screeching in protest as it gave way to the relentless momentum of the truck.In the chaos that ensued, dust and debris billowed into the air, obscuring Kaito's vision as he fought to maintain control of the vehicle. The truck lurched forward, its tires grinding against the broken remnants of the gate as it continued its reckless charge towards Orion's Oasis.As the truck barreled towards them, Meiko and Miku stood like deers in headlights. Time seemed to stretch slowly as they braced themselves for impact, their hearts pounding. Unbeknownst to them, their hands were tightly clasped together.At the last possible moment, the truck veered sharply to the right, narrowly avoiding a collision. With a screech of tires and a cloud of dust, Kaito skidded the truck to halt just inches away from Meiko and Miku, its engine protesting as it came to rest in front of them. Stunned, Meiko and Miku exchanged wide-eyed glances, trying to process what in the world just happened. Subconsciously, the two had switched from holding hands to clinging to each other for dear life.As they released each other, their attention turned to Kaito and Luka emerging from the truck, unscathed but visibly exhilarated. Luka's excitement bubbled over as she clapped her hands with glee, while Kaito wore a grin of triumph.“Oh my gosh, that was so fun! I’ve never done that before!”“I know right, we gotta do that again sometime!” Kaito agreed. The two high fived each other.However, Meiko's exhaustion outweighed any amusement at their antics. Marching towards the two, she shook her head in disbelief, rubbing her temples as she tried to process the stunt they just pulled."No, you will absolutely not. And seriously, guys?" Meiko's voice was tinged with exasperation. "We have a keypad for the gate, you know."Meiko jabbed her thumb at the security booth and Kaito's expression shifted to one of realization as he glanced over, his eyes widening."But Luka told me she didn't know the password, and you and Miku never told me what it was," Kaito tried feebly, in an attempt to justify their reckless stunt.Meiko shook her head in disbelief, pulling out her phone and shoved it in his face. It revealed a text she had sent to Luka with the gate code. A text that was sent yesterday. Kaito's face fell as he realized their blunder."Luka, you knew the password all along?" Kaito's sense of betrayal was evident in his tone.“Hey, Miku!” Ignoring Kaito's incredulous gaze, Luka bounded over to Miku, her enthusiasm undiminished by the chaos. Meiko's voice could be heard in the background, presumably scolding Kaito for their reckless antics.As Luka approached Miku, her mind buzzing with questions, she noticed the unease flickering in Miku's eyes. Deciding to prioritize her friend's comfort over her curiosity, Luka enveloped Miku in a warm bear hug, the gesture speaking volumes in lieu of words. Miku accepted the embrace gratefully, returning it with equal warmth, her silent apology implicit in the gesture.Feeling Miku relax into the hug, Luka pulled back slightly to gauge her friend's expression before squeezing her once more. "So glad you're okay, Miku," she exclaimed, her voice brimming with genuine relief. "Do you think you could show us your beloved mural before we head back to the cafe?"Miku welcomed the distraction, feeling the weight of her emotional turmoil lift from her shoulders. "Yeah I can do that," she replied with a grateful smile. "I would love to."As Luka and Miku exchanged words, Kaito's protests continued to echo in the background, his voice tinged with a hint of petulance."I want to get mad but I don't have the energy right now. You got a lot of clean up to do." She sighed to herself, rubbing her temples.He gave Meiko a comically exaggerated pout, his expression reminiscent of a thwarted puppy."Me?! I don’t get why I’m the only one being scolded here. I'm the victim here!" He whined. "This was an emergency!"Rolling her eyes at his theatrics, "Oh, stop being such a drama queen," she chided, pointing a finger at him."I'm only letting you drive right now because I legitmately need a break to process how Im going to pay for all of the damages."Putting his hands on his hips, Kaito turned to Miku with a cheeky grin. "Well, I'm in luck because it looks like I'll be your chauffeur today!" he declared, his voice dripping with mock chivalry. He puffed out his chest and look at Luka who nodded in return.“Let's stop by the mural and then the next stop is Frontline Café!” She added on.He saluted and bowed before hopping over the hood and dashing towards the driver's seat."Hope you're prepared for the ride of your life!"Miku couldn't help but giggle at his antics, the tension of the earlier ordeal melting away in the face of Kaito's absurdity. "Just don't crash a second time," she replied with finger guns, her laughter bubbling up like a spring of joy.“I don’t want to become a crash dummy.”“No promises!” He shouted back.As they headed towards the truck, Meiko shaking her head in fond exasperation at their antics, Miku felt a sense of lightness fill her heart. Despite the chaos and confusion of the night, she knew that with Meiko, Kaito, and Luka by her side, there would never be a dull moment. Though the resilient VDB truck had endured a blow, they swiftly embarked, with the promise of laughter and adventure beckoning them forward, washing away any lingering worries.

Chapter Five

The back of the truck felt like a whimsical surprise, bursting with color and serenity that seemed almost otherworldly. The drive from the oasis to the café was fairly long, so Miku had some time to fully take in the building as the truck began to move. The building was massive, towering over the landscape like a guardian. Its architecture was a blend of styles, with gothic spires reaching skyward and intricate carvings adorning its façade. Even from a distance, it exuded an air of mystery and grandeur that left her in awe. Slowly, the building faded into the horizon, leaving her with a pang of bittersweet longing, as if bidding farewell to a loved one.As a result, it left the group with plenty of time to occupy themselves in the back of the truck. While Kaito crooned along to the radio, Luka let her luscious locks dance in the wind, reveling in the freedom of the moment. Meanwhile, Meiko found herself captivated by the scenery flashing by. And well, Miku amused herself by twirling a pen between her fingers, performing a series of tricks with practiced ease. Miku wasn’t sure how to feel as she leaned her head against the window absent-mindedly. Each member of the group embraced the journey back in their own way.Miku found herself lost in reflection, her thoughts swirling like a storm cloud. Emotions clouded her mind, threatening to overwhelm her with their intensity. She withdrew into herself, communication dwindling as she grappled with the whirlwind of feelings churning within her. Yet, even as she wrestled with her inner turmoil, she was beginning to accept the natural ebb and flow of emotions. This is easier said than done, honestly.Her friend's actions today spoke volumes, reassuring her of the depth of their care and affection. As if crashing a security gate for a friend wasn’t convincing enough. Miku was pulled out of her thoughts when she noticed that the surroundings started to pick up in volume. It looks like they made it back to the city. She was on Sky Street.As they neared the Frontline Café Miku's attention was drawn to the tantalizing aroma of food wafting through the car.“What’s that smell?”“It’s part of the surprise Kaito and I have planned for you!” Luka answered without looking away from the window.Kaito weaved through the bustling traffic in front of the café effortlessly, even having time to wave at the fellow residents walking by. Although they gave some funny looks in returning after seeing the state that the truck was in. After some time, he finally pulled into the café’s parking lot while the radio’s current song playing on the radio had to come to a perfect end.“And with impeccable timing, we have arrived. Everyone, please make your way to the exit.” Kaito announced. He quickly hopped out of the car and opened the passenger door for Meiko. As soon as the door was opened, she yanked his ear and the man yelped in pain.“Nice try, but you’re still on dish-washing duty tonight.”“It was still worth a shot! Please have mercy—Ow! My earring!” The man was clearly taller than the frightening woman that stood before him but he still had to lean down lest he anger her more.“It wasn’t even my fault! Ow! This is insanity like I come on, Meiko! How could you do this to me? I thought you were supposed to be this wise—”"Keep talking, and I'll make you pay for the damages too," Kaito straightened up immediately in response."Sir yes sir! Heard you loud and clear, ma'am!"She rolled her eyes and released her grip, while Kaito perked up and followed suit, resembling a golden retriever. But he immediately locked eyes with Luka, a mischievous grin spreading across both of their faces. Both Kaito and Luka's eyes sparkled with a clandestine scheme unbeknownst to Miku. Without hesitation, they made their way toward the café, which appeared unusually dimly lit. In fact, it was dark. Actually, the word "dark" hardly did it justice; the blinds were tightly shut, blocking any attempt to peek inside. Glancing at her phone, Miku noted there was still plenty of time before closing. Before she could ask what they were up to, Meiko swiftly approached Kaito at the entrance, snatching something from his hand before leading Luka into the café. Kaito, wearing a sheepish expression, bowed his head in embarrassment before walking back towards Miku. Meiko's assertiveness likely meant she had taken control of their little surprise after Kaito's recent antics.Gesturing towards the outdoor seating, Kaito invited Miku to join him, and she nodded in agreement. As they settled, a peaceful silence enveloped them, punctuated only by the gentle murmur of distant conversations. They watched the sun dip slowly below the horizon, sharing a quiet moment of reflection.It had been almost 20 minutes and neither of the two uttered a word until now. Because of the amount of emotional turmoil that played out in the past hour or so, the idea of conversation has completely taken a backseat.But Miku couldn't shake the nagging thought that had been lingering in her mind for quite some time. Meiko was always the one behind the wheel during their outings. It was a role she had taken on without question, effortlessly navigating their way through the city streets. The realization sparked a curiosity within Miku, leading her to ponder: How did Kaito, who seemed so carefree and often scattered in his thoughts... How did he learn how to drive?She pondered silently before voicing her question to Kaito, "Hey Kaito, when did you get your driver’s license?" She couldn’t recall him ever mentioning formal driving lessons, but perhaps she just had a mental lapse."Who said I did?" Kaito responded nonchalantly.Miku’s jaws dropped at the sudden revelation. Her head reeled at the fact that their neighborhood delinquent himbo was capable of driving without a license. Miku's eyes widened in disbelief as she pictured Kaito, taking Meiko's car for a spin when she wasn’t looking— like the little rat that he is. Oh god. She is going to be so mad when she finds out.Kaito didn’t have a driver’s license. He never did but we all just assumed that he did.The realization hit her like a ton of bricks, and she struggled to hold in her laughter, holding onto her stomach. "Wait, what in the world?! You mean we've been cruising around with an unlicensed driver all this time?! With us as passengers?” she exclaimed.“Yup!” He nodded his head like it was something to be proud of.“You’re insufferable, and I think you have a death wish. I’ll be at your funeral though. ”“I know which is why you’re going to keep it a secret.” Kaito leaned forward and flashed her a grin, his fingers pressed against his lips in a playful shushing gesture.“No, I don’t, says who? You’re not my boss.” Miku returned his look with a face of complete disgust.“Me.” He smiled with his eyes closed and leaned against his palm. Miku didn’t like that smile of his because it usually means he has something up his sleeve.“Well, after your little tantrum today, guess who had to go play peacemaker and use their charm to placate all the people you chased out.” Miku widened her eyes at the realization before pursing her lips. He had a point. She absolutely hated it when he was right. Curses.“Luka?” She tried.“I know that you know that we both know that it’s not Luka.”“Meiko.”“Seriously?” Kaito deadpanned, disbelief evident in his tone.“Okay, fine! Lips are sealed.” Miku huffed, her shoulders slumping as she conceded defeat, her frustration evident. It was a lesson learned, albeit reluctantly.“Glad we came to an agreement!” He leaned back in his chair, a smirk playing on his lips.“Ugh, I hate it when this side shows. You never reveal that part of yourself to them,” Miku lamented, running her hands down her cheeks in exasperation. But Kaito remained silent in response to her remark.“I’m on dish-washing duty because of you, loser. And I was this close to paying for the damages.” He pointed out.“—Anyways, thank you.” She added hastily, a note of gratitude slipping through her frustration.“No problem, loser.” He chuckled in response.Miku couldn't help but chuckle at the absurdity of the conversation before returning her gaze to the street. In that moment, memories of her last interaction with the mural flooded her mind, transporting her back to the moments just before she returned to Frontline Café.Miku stood facing the mural, bathed in sunlight, a peaceful scene amidst the crumbling architecture that enclosed them. Once, the eroded stars and the timid moon peeking through clouds had held her spellbound—a simple, breathtaking yet confounding display that defied human understanding. She was enthralled before she gradually succumbed to a creeping fear of loss. Like a cherished memory fading into obscurity, the moon's vibrant hues gradually muted, casting a shadow over its once-mesmerizing abstract beauty. In the mural's faded visage, Miku sought escapism, grappling with a profound sorrow that mirrored her own inner turmoil. Each glance felt like grasping at fragments of herself, desperately trying to hold onto what once was.But now, a profound shift occurred. The mural radiated a newfound sense of peace and hope, its abstract forms no longer a mystery but a beacon of understanding. Amidst the chaos of its splattered hues, Miku saw a reflection of herself—a flawed yet resilient soul, surrounded by the warmth of loving friends and the unwavering support of a caring community. And in that moment, amidst the faded yet resplendent beauty of the mural, Miku found solace and a renewed sense of purpose—a testament to her enduring strength and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.Approaching the mural, Miku gently trailed her fingertips along its surface, sensing a warmth that resonated with her own emotions. Her eyes welled up with tears as she reminisced about her journey alongside this artwork, feeling a profound connection unlike any other she had experienced."Hey, Kaito," Miku confessed, her gaze fixed on the mural as if seeking guidance. "I've never shared this with anyone, but I feel like there's a bond between me and this mural. It's as if it's a part of who I am."Kaito scoffed before playfully slapping Miku's back. "Yeah, you've made that pretty clear, loser."Miku's focus was abruptly interrupted when she heard a sharp cry of alarm."Call for help! Quickly!" Meiko's voice pierced through the air with urgency."What's happening?!" Miku sprang to her feet, with Kaito close on her heels.Without a moment's hesitation, Miku darted into the café, driven by the instinct to shield her friends from harm. Yet, as she entered, she was met not by chaos, but by a warm embrace. Abruptly, she found herself surrounded by a dazzling array of lights and the explosive sounds of party poppers, accompanied by a jubilant chorus of "surprise!" from her fellow staff members. It was then that Miku realized she was being hugged tightly by Luka and Meiko. Kaito swiftly joined the trio, exchanging knowing glances with them, his eyes alight with excitement as they led her towards a lavishly decorated table adorned with vibrant balloons and flickering candles."Surprise!" they exclaimed in unison, their voices brimming with affection and laughter, the word reverberating through the air like a symphony of joy.Miku's eyes widened in astonishment as she took in the scene before her—the once serene and subdued Café had been magically transformed into a lively celebration, complete with her favorite foods and decorations inspired by the mural. But what truly caught her attention was the sight of a cotton candy machine nestled in the corner, its wisps of sugary clouds swirling temptingly in the air.. The aroma of freshly spun cotton candy wafted through the room, wrapping around her like a warm embrace and filling her senses with its sweet fragrance. It was a simple indulgence, yet one that held a special place in her heart. That was what she smelled earlier. It was her favorite snack, cotton candy.Tears of overwhelming joy and gratitude welled up in her eyes once more as she stood amidst the celebration, her heart overflowing with emotion. In that moment, surrounded by the love and thoughtfulness of her friends, the simple pleasure of her favorite snack took on a deeper significance."You guys..." Miku began, her voice choked with emotion, her heart swelling with love for her friends.Meiko stepped forward, her presence commanding yet tender as she placed a hand on Miku's shoulder. "We wanted to show you how much you mean to us, Miku. Today marks not only a celebration of your journey alongside the mural but also a celebration of the beautiful soul you are."Luka gently placed a flower crown atop Miku's head, each blossom vibrant with color and life. "This is for you, Miku," she whispered, her voice soft yet resolute. "A symbol of the beauty and creativity you infuse into our lives each and every day."Kaito grinned mischievously, holding out a small gift wrapped in colorful paper, the anticipation evident in his eyes. "And I couldn't resist getting you a little something," he said, his excitement visible as he awaited Miku's reaction.With trembling hands, Miku unwrapped the gift to reveal a customized Vivid Daybreak sketchbook adorned with intricate designs and patterns, each page a canvas waiting to be filled with her dreams and aspirations. Tears of gratitude spilled down her cheeks as she flipped through the pages, marveling at the thought and care that had gone into the gift. The cover bore a stunning hand stitched rendition of Miku surrounded by stars and moons, a symbol of her connection to the mural and the universe itself. The weight of the moment settled over her like a comforting embrace as she realized the depth of her friends' love and support. Here, within the pristine pages of the sketchbook, lay endless possibilities—a testament to Kaito's belief in her creativity and talent."Thank you," Miku whispered, her voice barely above a whisper, her heart overflowing with love and gratitude for her friends. "I don't know what I did to deserve you all."Meiko pulled Miku into a tight hug, her embrace warm and reassuring, a silent promise of unwavering support and love. "You don't have to do anything, Miku. You're a part of our family, and we'll always be here for you, through every triumph and every challenge."As the evening stretched on, Miku found herself surrounded by laughter and love, her heart full to bursting with happiness. In that moment, amidst the warmth of friendship and the glow of the setting sun, she knew with unwavering certainty that she was exactly where she was meant to be—surrounded by the people who loved her most in the world. This anniversary celebration marked not just a milestone of time but a testament to the enduring power of their bond, a reminder that through the highs and lows, they would always stand together, united by the thread of friendship that bound them.

Rolling her eyes, Miku swatted Kaito’s hand away and made her way toward the exit. She cast one final, longing glance at the mural, her heart heavy with the weight of bittersweet nostalgia. It was a moment of farewell, a poignant reminder of the journey she had embarked on and the memories she had created residing in this Sekai.As she stepped out into the world beyond the mural, a sense of both loss and liberation washed over her. She couldn't help but feel a twinge of sadness at leaving behind the comfort of familiarity, the warmth of friendship, and the safety of the known. Yet, there was also a glimmer of excitement in her heart—a yearning for new adventures, new discoveries, and new horizons.With each step away from the mural, Miku felt the ties of the past loosening, allowing her to spread her wings and soar into the unknown. It was the end of a chapter, but also the beginning of a new one—a chapter waiting to be filled with untold stories, unexpected encounters, and uncharted territories.And as she walked away, leaving behind the fading echoed memories of laughter and the lingering scent of paint, Miku knew that she was ready to embrace whatever lay ahead. For in the end, it wasn't about the destination, but the journey—the journey of self-discovery, growth, and transformation that had led her to this moment of departure, bidding farewell to the past and stepping boldly into the future.