Tenkaichi Elite Academy – Lunch Break
Tatsuki jabbed his chopsticks into his bento. "Something's off. Aeron's been spacing out more than usual."
"He's been leaving school early, too," Misora added, flipping her notebook. "Not like he has a club."
Yume looked uneasy. "I asked him where he goes. He said 'nowhere'... but he's lying."
Tatsuki nodded. "Then let's go to his house. If anyone knows the truth, it's his family."
---
Afternoon – Kael Residence
The mansion gates loomed tall, casting shadows on the clean stone driveway.
The moment the intercom buzzed, a smooth voice answered:
"This is Himari Kael."
Yume's eyes widened. "Wait... Kael? Like Lucent Corporation Kael?"
"That's his family name," Misora whispered. "He's... the heir?"
The gates slid open.
---
Inside the Kael Mansion
They were greeted by Himari Kael herself—poised, powerful, and intimidating in a crisp blouse and slacks. She was both elegance and quiet menace.
"You're here for Aeron, I assume?" she said with a slight smirk.
Tatsuki stammered. "Uh… yeah. We just—wanted to check on him. He's seemed… distant."
Himari gave a knowing smile. "He's been… exploring some of my hobbies. Would you like to see?"
They followed.
---
The Underground Shock
A freight elevator opened to a secret level beneath the estate.
Rows of luxury supercars lined the walls like trophies. Each was covered in matte finishes and cutting-edge tech.
Yume stepped back, stunned. "I-Is this a car museum?"
"No," Himari replied. "This is my personal collection."
"And you let Aeron near these?" Misora asked, baffled.
Himari tilted her head. "He drives better than most professionals after only a week of training."
The group stared, jaws open.
---
The Slip
As they walked, Misora leaned toward a nearby photo frame: Aeron, Himari, and Ayaka—taken after the wedding ceremony.
"…Wait. Is that… Ayaka?" Yume blinked.
"His stepsister," Himari said casually before sipping her tea.
Silence.
Misora and Yume turned to Tatsuki in horror.
"She's… she's living with him?!"
"And no one at school knows?" Yume gasped.
Tatsuki muttered, "This… this explains way too much."