'This is where we Part'

Chapter 5 - "The Colour of Our Sky"

The train pulled into Osaka just past noon, the city bursting with life beneath a clear blue sky. From the window, skyscrapers gleamed beside traditional rooftops, the smell of street food drifting faintly through the platform doors.

"Wahhhhh~~ Osaka!!" Tamaki was the first to jump out, practically vibrating with excitement. "Food! Takoyaki! Crepes! More food!"

"Slow down, Tamaki-kun!" Sougo shouted, dragging the younger boy back by the collar. "you'll get lost before we even check in to the hotel."

Nagi stretched dramatically, arms wide as if embracing the whole city. "Ahh, Osaka, the land of laughter and love! I can already feel the artistic energy flowing through my Scandinavian Soul!"

Riku stepped onto the platform last, his red hair catching the sunlight. The air felt fresher than he remembered—warm, lively, filled with sounds of chatter an trains and laughter. He took a deep breath, the corners of his lips lifting.

"Osaka really feels...alive..." he murmured.

"It's nice to see you smiling again," Iori said softly beside him, adjusting his bag. "just don't overdo it, alright?"

Riku laughed gently. "you said that three times already."

"and I'll keep saying it." Iori replied flatly. Tsumugi walked up, checking her tablet.

"Alright, everyone. The nan—us, I mean the sponsor—booked you all at a traditional inn nearby. You'll have free time this afternoon, but please don't sleep up too far. The concert area for tomorrow's event isn't far either."

"Got it!" mitsuki grinned. "free time means food hunt!"

At the Osaka streets, Dotonbori, the group wandered through Dotonbori, neon lights shimmering on the canal's surface. The air was alive with laughter, sizzling food and music spilling from open shop doors. Crowds bustled past, the smell of Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki filling the air. Fans occasionally glanced their way, whispering. "is that...idolish7?" – but the boys stayed low—profile, dressed casually with masks and hats.

"Takoyaki!!" Tamaki cheered, his eyes lighting up as he dragged Sougo toward the nearest stand. "c'mon, Sou-chan! It's calling us!"

Sougo smiled softly, letting himself be pulled along. "you always say that about food, Tamaki-kun. But fine—only if you don't burn your tongue this time."

"I won't! Probably!" Tamaki said, already ordering two portions.

Mitsuki sighed dramatically. "he's going to burn his tongue again, I'm calling it now."

Nagi chuckled, snapping a few picture with his phone. "Ah, but behold! A perfect snapshot of friendship!"

"More like disaster," Yamato muttered, adjusting his cap. "at least it's better than him wandering off."

Meanwhile, Riku and Iori walked side by side a few steps behind. Riku's face was lit by the glow of the city lights, eyes sparkling as he watched Tamaki and Sougo share their food. Sougo blew on one piece before offering it to Tamaki and Tamaki accepted it happily, tailing after him like an excited puppy.

Riku laughed softly. "They're really close...huh?"

"they've been through a lot together." Iori replied, his gaze flicking from them to Riku. "Like you and the rest of us. You're connected—more than just idols."

"That's true," Riku said with a gentle smile. "I think that's what makes us special." Just then, Mitsuki approached with a small skewer of grilled squid.

"Riku! Try this—it's delicious!"

"Ah—thank you, Mitsuki!" Riku took a small bite, his expression brightening instantly. "it's good."