A blinding light surrounded Aoi and Kaito as the ruins dissolved, leaving them standing on a solid platform in a void of swirling colors. The air was calm, almost serene, and the masked man appeared before them, floating gracefully.

  “Congratulations,” the masked man said, his voice echoing with a mix of amusement and sincerity. “You’ve passed the second trial—‘Break Your Distance.’ Your bond was tested, and you proved that no obstacle could sever it. Admirable, truly.”

  Kaito tightened his grip on Aoi’s hand, his resolve firm. “We’re not here for your games. If there’s another trial, just tell us what it is. We’ll face it together.”

  Aoi nodded, her eyes filled with determination. “We’ve come too far to back down now. Whatever you throw at us, we’ll overcome it.”

  The masked man tilted his head slightly, as if amused by their courage. “Such confidence… It’s rare to see. But courage alone will not be enough for what lies ahead.”

  “What do you mean?” Aoi asked, her tone sharp.

  The masked man chuckled softly, the sound both lighthearted and unnerving. “Every trial is designed to challenge not just your abilities, but the strength of your hearts and souls. You’ve endured pain, separation, and doubt. But the next trial… The next will be the hardest yet.”

  Kaito stepped forward, his voice unwavering. “We’re ready. Just tell us what it is.”

  The masked man floated closer, his fox-shaped mask catching the faint light of the void. “The third trial,” he began, his voice growing serious, “is the Trial of Trust and Bond.”

  Aoi and Kaito exchanged glances, their hands still firmly clasped. “Trust and bond?” Aoi repeated, a hint of uncertainty in her voice.

  “Indeed,” the masked man confirmed. “This trial will test the depth of your connection, the strength of your trust, and the resilience of your bond. It will reveal the truth of your hearts—both the light and the shadows within.”

  Kaito furrowed his brow. “What exactly do we have to do?”

  The masked man chuckled again, the sound echoing in the void. “That, my dear participants, is for you to discover. I can only tell you this: the trial will take you to the edges of your limits. You must rely on each other completely. Any hesitation, any doubt… and you will fail.”

  Aoi gritted her teeth, her grip on Kaito’s hand tightening. “We’ve trusted each other all this time. We’ll pass this trial, too.”

  Kaito nodded, his expression determined. “You’ve thrown everything at us, and we’re still standing. We’ll face this trial and prove you wrong if you think we’ll fail.”

  The masked man raised his hand, a faint glow radiating from his palm. “Very well,” he said, his voice carrying a hint of intrigue. “Let the Trial of Trust and Bond begin.”

  With a snap of his fingers, the ground beneath them began to shift. The void disappeared, replaced by a vast, unfamiliar landscape. Mountains loomed in the distance, a dense forest surrounded them, and a roaring river cut through the terrain. The air felt heavy, filled with an unspoken tension.

  Before either of them could speak, the masked man’s voice echoed one last time. “Trust each other. Trust yourselves. Only then will you find the path forward.”

  As his presence vanished, Aoi and Kaito looked at each other, their hearts pounding. They didn’t know what the trial would entail, but one thing was certain—they would face it together.

  The masked man’s words hung heavy in the air, resonating with an ominous tone.

  “Every spirit becomes a crystal after death,” he repeated, his voice calm yet commanding. “But they can also be turned into a crystal temporarily. Aoi, please cooperate with me.”

  Aoi looked at Kaito, confusion and unease flashing in her eyes. “What does he mean by that?” she asked, her voice trembling.

  Before Kaito could respond, Aoi’s body began to glow faintly. Her feet lifted off the ground as she was slowly pulled upward, weightless and ethereal.

  “Aoi!” Kaito shouted, reaching for her hand. But his fingers passed through empty space as she floated higher, just out of his reach.

  “Kaito!” Aoi called out, her voice filled with both fear and trust. “What’s happening to me?”

  Kaito clenched his fists, his mind racing for answers. “Masked man! Stop this!” he demanded, his voice echoing in the vast landscape.

  But the masked man only chuckled softly. “This is necessary,” he said. “For the trial to begin, Aoi must take on her crystal form. Kaito, your role in this trial depends on your trust in her and your bond with her. Do not fail her now.”

  Before Kaito could respond, Aoi’s body glowed brighter, her silhouette fading into the light. She closed her eyes, her expression peaceful yet resolute. Moments later, a blinding flash enveloped her, and when the light faded, a radiant crystal hovered in the air where she had been.

  The crystal was translucent, shimmering with hues of blue and gold, pulsing gently as if alive. It radiated warmth and an unspoken connection—a reminder of Aoi’s presence.

  Kaito stared at the crystal in disbelief, his heart pounding. “Aoi…” he whispered, his voice breaking.

  The masked man’s voice echoed around him, calm yet commanding. “Shall we start the third trial, the trial of trust and bond?”

  Kaito gritted his teeth, his gaze never leaving the crystal. “What do you want me to do? How do I get her back?”

  The masked man’s chuckle reverberated once more, distant and unsettling. “You’ll find out soon enough, Kaito. But remember, trust and bond are the keys to this trial. Every choice you make, every step you take, will determine the outcome. Do you trust her? Do you trust yourself?”

  Kaito clenched his fists, determination flaring in his eyes. “Of course I trust her. I’ll do whatever it takes to bring her back.”

  The masked man’s voice softened, almost approving. “Very well. Let the trial begin.”

  The ground beneath Kaito shifted, and the landscape around him began to blur and twist. The forest, the river, and the mountains dissolved into a new setting—a labyrinth of mirrors, endless and disorienting. The crystal floated gently ahead of him, its light illuminating the dark maze.

  Kaito stepped forward, his resolve unshaken. “I’ll find you, Aoi,” he said firmly. “No matter what, I’ll bring you back.”

  The labyrinth seemed to respond, the mirrors glowing faintly as Kaito’s journey began.

  The crystal descended slowly, its radiant glow illuminating the surrounding labyrinth, yet it stopped just above the ground, floating effortlessly. Kaito, who had been staring at it intently, took a step closer. Before he could reach out, a voice echoed around him, calm yet commanding:

  “First phase: wind.”

  Kaito froze as a soft breeze began to flow from the crystal. At first, it felt harmless, almost soothing. But within seconds, the breeze turned into a powerful gust. The wind roared like a beast, swirling violently, forcing Kaito to shield his face with his arms.

  The masked man’s voice echoed again, faint and distant. “Touch the crystal if you can.”

  Kaito gritted his teeth and steadied his stance against the fierce wind. The air currents were relentless, pushing him backward with every step he tried to take forward. His clothes whipped around him like flags in a storm, and small debris carried by the wind struck him, leaving scratches on his arms and face.

  He clenched his fists, his determination unwavering. “I can’t stop now… Aoi needs me,” he muttered under his breath.

  As he struggled against the wind, a faint voice seemed to reach his ears. “Kaito… stop…”

  It was Aoi’s voice, soft and filled with concern. Kaito froze for a moment, his eyes widening. “Aoi?” he called out, but the roaring wind drowned out his voice.

  The voice came again, clearer this time. “Please, Kaito… don’t hurt yourself… Stop!”

  Kaito’s heart wavered, his steps faltering. For a brief moment, he considered listening to her plea. But then he remembered her resolve during their trials and the words she once said to him: “You’re the reason I’m here. I trust you.”

  He clenched his teeth and shouted into the storm, “No! I won’t stop, Aoi! I’ll do this for you!”

  With renewed determination, Kaito forced his legs to move forward, one step at a time. The wind tore at him mercilessly, but he kept pushing forward, his arms shielding his face. The closer he got to the crystal, the more intense the wind became, as if the trial itself was testing his resolve.

  The masked man’s voice echoed faintly, amused. “Let’s see how far your bond can take you.”

  Kaito’s knees buckled under the wind’s force, and his body ached from the cuts and scratches left by the gale. But he refused to give up. “Just a little more,” he muttered, his eyes fixed on the glowing crystal. “I’m almost there…”

  Finally, with a final surge of strength, Kaito reached out with trembling fingers and touched the crystal. The instant his hand made contact, the wind stopped abruptly, leaving an eerie silence in its wake.

  Kaito collapsed to the ground, exhausted, but his hand remained firmly on the crystal. He panted heavily, his body shaking from the effort, but a faint smile crossed his lips.

  “I did it… Aoi…” he whispered before the world around him dimmed into blackness.

  Kaito groaned as he pushed himself up from the ground, his entire body aching from the relentless wind of the first phase. His hand still tingled from the contact with the crystal, its faint warmth lingering on his palm.

  Just as he managed to stand, the masked man appeared before him once more, his fox-shaped mask glowing faintly in the dim light. His presence exuded a calm yet unnerving aura.

  Kaito’s frustration boiled over. “What do you want from us?!” he shouted, his voice trembling with a mix of exhaustion and anger. “Why are you playing these games with us?”

  The masked man tilted his head slightly, a mischievous smile forming behind the mask. “What I want, you ask?” His tone was light, almost mocking. “I do not think I owe you an explanation. That matter is… irrelevant.”

  Kaito clenched his fists, but before he could say anything further, the masked man raised a hand to silence him. “Now, let us move on. Face the second phase: Earth.”

  “Earth?” Kaito repeated, confused.

  The masked man’s voice turned colder as he elaborated, “Right or wrong. Make your choice.”

  Suddenly, four small crystals materialized around Kaito, glowing faintly as they floated in midair. Each crystal shimmered for a moment before transforming. From every direction, four identical versions of Aoi emerged, stepping forward in unison.

  Kaito’s eyes widened in shock. “Aoi…?” he whispered, looking around in disbelief.

  Each Aoi stood silent, her expression unreadable. Before Kaito could react, the ground beneath their feet began to shift and ripple. To his horror, quicksand formed around each of the four Aois, and they started sinking slowly into the ground.

  “No!” Kaito cried out, rushing forward instinctively.

  The masked man’s voice echoed around him like a cruel taunt. “Find the real Aoi and save her. Either save her or lose her forever.”

  Kaito froze, his heart pounding in his chest. Sweat dripped down his face as he frantically scanned the four Aois. They all looked identical—same face, same clothes, same expression. He could feel panic rising within him.

  “What am I supposed to do?” he muttered to himself. “How am I supposed to know which one is real?”

  The quicksand dragged the Aois further down with each passing second. Kaito’s breaths came faster as he realized he was running out of time. He couldn’t save all four of them. He had to make a choice.

  “No… No… Think, Kaito!” he yelled, shaking his head. His mind was clouded with fear and doubt, unable to focus.

  Suddenly, he clenched his fist and punched himself in the face. The sharp pain cleared his thoughts momentarily, and he took a deep breath. “I need to stay calm. Aoi… The real Aoi… She’s counting on me.”

  He closed his eyes briefly, trying to focus. When he opened them again, he looked at each Aoi carefully, scanning every detail. His sharp gaze moved from one to the next, searching for something—anything—that would give him a clue.

  Then he noticed it.

  The Aoi behind him—her eyes glistened with something different. A single tear was trailing down her left cheek, shimmering faintly in the light. It wasn’t something the others had.

  “Aoi…” he whispered.

  Without hesitation, he turned and sprinted toward her. The quicksand had almost engulfed her entirely, but Kaito reached out and grabbed her arm just in time. “I’ve got you!” he shouted, pulling her free with all his strength.

  The real Aoi gasped softly, her eyes wide in surprise as she looked at him. “Kaito… How…?”

  He didn’t answer, pulling her close to steady her. As soon as she was safe, the other three Aoi’s disappeared, vanishing like shadows in the light.

  Kaito looked at Aoi, his chest heaving as relief washed over him. “I… I knew it was you,” he said, his voice trembling.

  Aoi blinked, her expression softening as she opened her mouth to speak. But before she could say anything, her body began to glow. Kaito’s eyes widened in shock as she floated out of his grasp.

  “Aoi!” he called out, reaching for her, but it was too late. She transformed back into the crystal, the same radiant light surrounding her as before.

  The crystal floated gently into the air, and the masked man’s voice echoed once more, calm yet ominous. “Well done, Kaito. The first phase of the trial is complete. But do not celebrate yet. There is more to come.”

  Kaito clenched his fists, staring at the glowing crystal above him. He wasn’t sure how much more he could endure, but he knew one thing for certain—he wouldn’t give up.

  The masked man stood still, his eerie smile seemingly etched onto his face as he spoke in a cryptic tone. “I can give you the crystal if you want,” he said, his voice echoing in the ruined city.

  Kaito looked at him with suspicion, clenching his fists. “What do you mean by that?”

  The masked man gestured lightly, and the crystal began to descend from its floating position in the air, slowly making its way down toward Kaito. It hovered over his hands, radiating a soft glow.

  “Here,” the masked man said, watching Kaito intently.

  Kaito reached out, his hands trembling as the crystal floated just above his palms. He stared at it, unsure of what the masked man was trying to do.

  “But,” the masked man interrupted his thoughts, “can you hold it?”

  Before Kaito could react, the crystal shimmered and transformed into water. The liquid floated in a suspended sphere over his hands, defying gravity.

  “What—?” Kaito’s voice trailed off as he watched the water glisten, unsure of what was happening.

  The masked man’s voice cut through the air again, carrying a hint of amusement. “Let’s start the Third Phase: Water. Don’t let a single drop fall. Hold it, if you can.”

  The floating water sphere gently lowered into Kaito’s hands, and suddenly, the rules of gravity seemed to return. The water began to shift and tremble in his palms, threatening to spill.

  Kaito gritted his teeth, steadying his hands. The water felt strange, heavier than he expected, as if it carried some unseen weight.

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  The masked man tilted his head, his tone mocking yet entertained. “Oh, how entertaining. Let’s see how long you can manage.”

  Kaito focused all his attention on keeping the water from slipping through his fingers. Every few seconds, a small droplet threatened to fall, teetering on the edge of his palm. He quickly adjusted his hands, barely catching it before it could escape.

  Sweat began to bead on his forehead. “This is ridiculous,” he muttered under his breath. His arms started to ache, and his hands quivered from the strain of holding the water so delicately.

  The masked man chuckled softly, his voice laced with mockery. “What’s wrong, Kaito? Tired already? You’re holding something precious, aren’t you? Surely you can’t let it fall.”

  Kaito clenched his jaw, his resolve hardening. He knew this wasn’t just about the water—this trial was about Aoi. If he failed, he might lose her. “I won’t let it fall,” he said through gritted teeth.

  The seconds dragged on, each one feeling like an eternity. Kaito’s muscles screamed in protest, but he refused to give in. Finally, after what felt like forever, the masked man raised his hand.

  “Well,” he said, his tone suddenly bored, “there’s no fun in just holding the water. Let’s make it a bit more… entertaining.”

  Kaito’s eyes widened as the masked man snapped his fingers. The water in his hands shimmered once more, and before he could react, it transformed back into the crystal.

  The crystal rested lightly in his palms, its weight now strangely comforting after the ordeal. Kaito let out a long breath of relief, his shoulders sagging as the tension eased.

  The masked man clapped his hands slowly, the sound echoing ominously. “Congratulations, Kaito. You’ve passed this phase as well. Impressive… though I must admit, I had hoped for more of a struggle.”

  Kaito glared at him, still catching his breath. “What’s next?” he demanded.

  The masked man chuckled, ignoring Kaito’s question. “Let’s move on to the final phase. If you pass it, I will give you back Aoi… and a hint of your first memory.”

  Kaito’s heart skipped a beat. His first memory? He had no idea what the masked man meant, but the promise of learning something so crucial sent a wave of determination through him.

  The masked man’s voice dropped to a softer, more enigmatic tone. “But remember… this will not be for you alone. Aoi will face it with you. Together, you will uncover what you seek—if you have the strength to endure.”

  With that, the masked man disappeared into the shadows, leaving Kaito alone with the crystal glowing faintly in his hands.

  Kaito tightened his grip on the crystal, his resolve unwavering. “I’ll do whatever it takes,” he whispered to himself. “Aoi… we’ll get through this together.”

  The masked man reappeared, his enigmatic presence commanding the space. He raised his hand, and his voice rang out like an unyielding decree, “The fourth and final phase: Fire.”

  Kaito braced himself, clutching the crystal tightly. But the crystal began to change once again, its glow intensifying until it erupted into flames. This was no ordinary fire—it burned with an otherworldly blue hue, casting an eerie glow across the ruined city.

  Kaito’s eyes widened in disbelief as the fire hovered over his hands. “Fire?” he muttered.

  The masked man’s smirk deepened. “This is not just fire, Kaito. This is your final test. Your task is simple—hold it.”

  Before Kaito could react, the fire descended into his bare hands. He winced as the flames licked at his skin, the searing heat unlike anything he had ever felt. At first, the fire was small, manageable. But with every passing second, it grew, its intensity doubling.

  Kaito clenched his teeth, his hands trembling under the heat. “I... won’t let go,” he muttered, his voice strained.

  The flames roared, their size and fury increasing. The blue fire consumed his hands, spreading pain through his arms and body. His skin felt as if it were being scorched, but he refused to release it.

  Then, Aoi’s voice echoed faintly in his ears, soft and desperate. “Just let it go, Kaito. Don’t hurt yourself.” Her voice quivered as if she were on the verge of tears. “Please, I can’t bear to see you like this.”

  Kaito’s heart ached at her words, but he shook his head, his determination unshaken. “No,” he whispered. “I won’t let go. I promised... I promised to bring you back.”

  The fire blazed brighter, its blue flames dancing wildly around him. His hands felt as though they would disintegrate under the heat. Every muscle in his body screamed for him to give up, to let the fire go.

  But he didn’t.

  The memory of Aoi—her laughter, her kindness, her unwavering faith in him—gave him strength. “I’ve come too far... I’ve endured too much to give up now,” he growled.

  Minutes passed, each one stretching into an eternity. Sweat poured down his face, mixing with tears he didn’t realize he was shedding. Yet, he held on.

  Finally, the masked man raised his hand, his voice cutting through the roar of the flames. “Enough.”

  The fire vanished in an instant, transforming back into the crystal. For a brief moment, it floated in Kaito’s burnt and trembling hands. Then, in a flash of light, the crystal dissolved, and Aoi appeared before him.

  Her eyes fluttered open, and she looked at him with a mixture of shock and relief. “Kaito...” she whispered.

  Kaito smiled weakly, his body trembling from exhaustion and pain. “Aoi... you’re back.”

  Without hesitation, Aoi threw her arms around him, pulling him into a tight embrace. “You idiot,” she said, her voice breaking. “Why would you go through so much pain for me?”

  Kaito chuckled softly, his voice hoarse. “Because... you’re worth it.”

  Aoi pulled back, tears streaming down her face as she held his burnt hands in hers. “Let me heal you.”

  She placed her hands over his, a soft golden glow emanating from her palms. Slowly, the burns on Kaito’s hands began to fade, the pain subsiding as Aoi’s healing magic worked its wonders.

  When she was done, Kaito flexed his fingers, marveling at how perfectly they had been restored. He looked up at her and smiled. “Thank you.”

  Aoi smiled back, her tears now replaced with a look of determination.

  The masked man, watching the reunion unfold, clapped his hands slowly, the sound echoing ominously. “Congratulations, Kaito. You have passed the final phase.”

  Kaito turned to him, his eyes blazing with defiance. “What now? Are we free?”

  The masked man shook his head, his smile returning. “Not quite. There is one more trial awaiting you both.”

  Kaito and Aoi exchanged a glance, their relief replaced with unease.

  The masked man’s tone turned somber as he announced, “The fourth and ultimate trial: Know the truth.”

  As his words hung in the air, the world around them began to shift, the ruins trembling as if heralding the next challenge.

  The masked man stood still, his voice calm yet commanding as he announced, “In this fourth trial, you do not have to do anything. There is no challenge to face, no phase to pass. Instead, I will tell you the truth—the truth of the cave.”

  Kaito and Aoi exchanged a confused glance, but neither spoke. The space around them began to shift and transform. The ruins dissolved into a vibrant garden, filled with blooming flowers, lush greenery, and the gentle sound of a trickling stream. In the middle of the garden stood a small, elegant table with three chairs.

  The masked man gestured for them to sit, and they hesitantly took their places. Kaito noticed the air felt lighter here, and Aoi couldn’t help but admire the beauty surrounding them, though her curiosity about the masked man outweighed her awe.

  As they sat down, the masked man took the final seat across from them. Slowly, he reached up and removed his mask.

  Beneath the mask was a young man with strikingly unique features. His hair was silvery-white, shimmering faintly in the sunlight like strands of moonlight. His eyes were an intense golden color, glowing as if they held the power of the sun. His face was sharp yet serene, exuding wisdom and a subtle sadness.

  Kaito stared at him, momentarily stunned. “Who... are you?”

  The man smiled faintly but didn’t answer the question directly. Instead, he leaned forward slightly, his golden eyes meeting theirs. “Let us talk about the truth of the cave.”

  Aoi tilted her head, intrigued. “The cave? What about it?”

  The man clasped his hands together, his tone calm and measured. “The cave is not just a physical place; it is a manifestation of the spirit’s will and the heart’s yearning. It exists to help those who feel lost find their true path.”

  Kaito frowned slightly. “Find their path? By putting them through trials and pain?”

  The man nodded. “Precisely. The trials are not meant to punish but to awaken something within. They test courage, resolve, and the ability to make difficult decisions.”

  Aoi looked thoughtful. “But… what if someone fails the trials?”

  The man’s golden eyes softened. “Not every trial is about success or failure, Aoi. Sometimes, the test is not to escape or overcome together but to let go of the need to control time and fate. To accept that some things cannot be changed, and that moving forward requires understanding and trust.”

  Kaito leaned back in his chair, his expression conflicted. “So... everything we went through—the void, the crystal, the elements, even the memories—they were all just to teach us a lesson?”

  The man smiled gently. “Yes and no. The lessons are unique to each who enter the cave. For some, it is about trust. For others, it is about acceptance. And for some... it is about finding the courage to break free from the chains of the past.”

  Aoi’s gaze fell to the table, her voice quiet. “So, the cave exists to heal us?”

  The man nodded again. “Heal, guide, and prepare. It is not a perfect process, but for those who seek its path, it offers a chance to rediscover themselves and the bonds that tie them to this world.”

  Kaito clenched his fists. “And what about us? Why were we chosen to go through this?”

  The man’s golden eyes glimmered. “Because you are both bound by a shared memory—one that connects your souls. The cave seeks those who are lost but not alone. Together, you carry the strength to uncover what was forgotten and shape what lies ahead.”

  Aoi’s eyes widened slightly. “A shared memory? What do you mean?”

  The man’s expression turned enigmatic. “That is a question for the next part of your journey. I promised you a hint, and that will come soon enough.”

  The conversation lingered in the air as Aoi and Kaito tried to process the truth of the cave and its purpose. Both felt a mix of clarity and unease, knowing that their journey was far from over.

  The masked man stood up from his chair, his golden eyes glowing faintly as he spoke. “It is time for you both to receive the hint of your shared memory. But beware: one cannot see the other’s memory. Each must face it alone, as it is a fragment meant for you alone to understand.”

  Kaito and Aoi exchanged a quick glance before the masked man raised his hand. A ripple of light spread across the air like a wave in still water. The world around Kaito blurred and dissolved, leaving him alone in a place he didn’t recognize.

  The scene before him was peaceful, almost ethereal. A lush meadow stretched out under a golden twilight, with soft grass swaying in the gentle breeze. The sky above was painted in hues of orange and pink, as if the day itself was melting into a dream.

  In the middle of the meadow, he saw a girl. She was dancing, her movements fluid and graceful as though she were one with the wind. Her bare feet barely touched the ground, her white dress flowing like water around her. Kaito couldn’t see her face clearly, but there was something familiar about her—a strange feeling of warmth that tugged at his heart.

  Then she began to sing.

  Her voice was soft yet carried through the air, wrapping around Kaito like a comforting embrace. The melody was hauntingly beautiful, filled with a bittersweet emotion that resonated deep within him. It wasn’t just a song; it was a memory—a memory he couldn’t quite place but felt as though he had heard it before.

  He stepped closer, his heart racing. “Who… who are you?”

  The girl didn’t respond. She continued to sing, her voice growing softer yet more emotional. Then Kaito noticed something else—just a few steps away from her, a boy was sitting on the grass, his back turned to Kaito.

  Kaito squinted, his heart skipping a beat. The boy looked oddly familiar. He was sitting cross-legged, his head tilted slightly as if entranced by the girl’s performance. A faint breeze rustled his dark hair, but he remained still, watching her intently.

  “Is that… me?” Kaito murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.

  The realization struck him like lightning. The boy was him—his younger self. But why was he there? And more importantly, who was the girl singing to him?

  He looked back at the girl, trying desperately to see her face, but it remained obscured as though the memory itself refused to reveal her identity. Still, her voice stirred something deep inside him—an ache, a longing that he couldn’t explain.

  The melody shifted slightly, and the lyrics became clearer:

  “Through the winds, through the tides,

  I’ll always find you where hope resides.

  Even when shadows tear us apart,

  I’ll hold you forever within my heart.”

  Kaito froze. The words felt so familiar, yet he couldn’t remember where he had heard them before. His chest tightened, a mix of sorrow and joy swirling within him.

  “Why… why do I feel like I know this song?” he whispered, his voice trembling.

  As the girl continued to dance and sing, the younger version of himself sat quietly, completely absorbed in her performance. The memory felt distant yet incredibly vivid, like a dream he couldn’t wake from.

  Kaito tried to step closer, to reach out to the girl, but his feet wouldn’t move. “Who are you?” he called out, his voice echoing in the vast meadow.

  The girl stopped singing for a moment and turned her head slightly. For a brief second, he thought he might see her face. But just as quickly, the memory began to fade.

  “No, wait!” Kaito shouted, his hand reaching out toward her.

  The meadow dissolved into darkness, the song fading into silence. The warmth he felt vanished, replaced by the cold emptiness of the void.

  Kaito found himself standing once more in the garden, his breathing uneven. The masked man stood in front of him, his golden eyes watching him intently.

  “What… was that?” Kaito asked, his voice shaky.

  The masked man didn’t answer. Instead, he turned his gaze to Aoi, who seemed lost in her own vision. Kaito clenched his fists, his mind racing with questions. Who was the girl? Why did her song feel so familiar? And why couldn’t he see her face?

  As much as he wanted answers, one thing became clear: this memory was a piece of something much larger, and he would have to uncover the rest to understand it fully.

  As Kaito was engulfed in his own vision, Aoi found herself drawn into a memory of her own. The world around her shifted and blurred, dissolving into a scene bathed in golden light. Slowly, the hazy surroundings cleared, and she realized she was standing in a serene garden.

  Tall trees with soft green leaves bordered the area, their branches swaying gently in the warm breeze. The sound of birds chirping faintly in the distance mingled with the tranquil atmosphere. In the center of the garden was a clearing, and Aoi noticed two figures there.

  Her heart skipped a beat as she took a step closer, her bare feet brushing against the soft grass. The sunlight streamed through the trees, illuminating the scene before her like a painting brought to life.

  A girl was sitting on a stone bench, her hands folded neatly in her lap. Her long hair shimmered in the sunlight, and she wore a simple yet elegant dress that fluttered in the gentle wind. Her expression was calm but carried a hint of curiosity and joy.

  Aoi froze, her breath catching in her throat. The girl… it was her. She was looking at herself, though much younger, perhaps no more than six or seven years old.

  The younger Aoi wasn’t alone. Just a few feet in front of her, a boy stood holding a violin. His stance was confident but not arrogant, his posture relaxed as if he belonged in this moment. His face was partly obscured by the sunlight, but his movements were graceful, and the violin in his hands seemed like an extension of himself.

  He began to play.

  The first note pierced the air, soft and melodic, like the whisper of a gentle breeze. The sound grew richer, weaving a tune so sweet and harmonious that Aoi felt her heart ache. The melody seemed to carry with it a wave of emotions—joy, longing, and a touch of melancholy—all entwined into a single, beautiful piece.

  She stepped closer, her eyes fixed on the boy. As the notes poured from the violin, she saw her younger self listening intently, her gaze locked on the boy’s movements. The expression on the young Aoi’s face was one of pure awe and admiration.

  Aoi’s chest tightened as she recognized the melody. It was faint, like a memory buried deep within her, but she knew she had heard it before—recently, even. The tune resonated within her, stirring emotions she couldn’t quite place.

  “That song…” she whispered, her voice trembling.

  The boy’s movements were fluid, his bow gliding across the strings with precision and passion. Every note he played seemed to reach out to her, wrapping around her like a warm embrace. Aoi felt tears welling up in her eyes, though she couldn’t explain why.

  As she moved closer, she caught a clearer glimpse of the boy’s face. Her breath hitched. It was Rio.

  “Rio…” she murmured, her voice breaking.

  The realization hit her like a wave. The boy playing the violin was Rio, the one she had met in the cave so long ago. But why was he here in this memory? And why did the song feel so familiar?

  She watched as the younger Aoi smiled, clapping her hands softly as the boy finished his piece. He lowered the violin and looked at her, a gentle smile spreading across his face.

  “Did you like it?” he asked, his voice soft but filled with warmth.

  Young Aoi nodded enthusiastically. “It was beautiful! You’re amazing, Rio!”

  The boy chuckled, his expression both humble and pleased. “Thank you. I’m glad you liked it. I played it just for you.”

  Aoi felt her heart tighten at his words. The memory was so vivid, so full of life, that it was hard to believe it wasn’t real. She reached out a hand, wanting to touch the younger versions of herself and Rio, but her hand passed through the air like a ghost.

  She stood frozen, watching as the younger Aoi and Rio continued to talk and laugh together. The scene was idyllic, almost dreamlike, yet it carried a weight she couldn’t ignore.

  The melody of the violin still lingered in her mind, echoing faintly as if it refused to leave her. She clutched her chest, her emotions swirling in a confusing mix of sorrow and warmth.

  “Why does this feel so familiar?” she whispered. “Why… why can’t I remember more?”

  The memory began to blur, the golden light fading into darkness. Aoi reached out desperately, trying to hold onto the moment, but it slipped through her fingers like sand.

  “No, wait! Don’t go!” she cried, her voice echoing into the void.

  The vision disappeared completely, and Aoi found herself back in the garden, her breath uneven and her heart racing. She looked around, her gaze falling on Kaito, who was still lost in his own memory.

  The melody of the violin still echoed faintly in her mind, a haunting reminder of the memory she had just witnessed.

  The masked man stood before Aoi and Kaito, his presence looming as always, though now with an air of finality. His mask gleamed under the faint light that surrounded them, and his voice echoed in the empty space, carrying a tone of both challenge and intrigue.

  “So, it looks like you have not found your answer,” he said, tilting his head slightly as if disappointed yet entertained. “No problem. You will find that answer in your next trial.”

  Both Aoi and Kaito tensed, their gazes locked onto the figure before them.

  “The trial,” the masked man continued, his voice deep and resonant, “the fifth and final trial: Sacrifice.”

  At his words, the world around them shifted abruptly. The ground beneath their feet disappeared, replaced by a vast expanse of white and gray clouds that stretched endlessly in every direction. They found themselves standing on a massive chessboard-like platform, each square perfectly aligned in a checkerboard pattern of black and white. The sky above them swirled with clouds, thick and heavy, as if on the verge of breaking into a storm.

  “What is this place?” Aoi asked, her voice barely above a whisper as she took in their surreal surroundings.

  The masked man only chuckled, his enigmatic laughter reverberating across the space. “Find your answer on your own,” he said, his tone playful yet foreboding. “I will not help you here.”

  Kaito clenched his fists, frustration evident on his face. “What do you mean, ‘find our answer’? What are we supposed to do?”

  The masked man ignored the question, his form beginning to blur and fade. “Bye, Bye,” he said, his voice laced with a hint of mockery.

  And just like that, he disappeared, leaving Aoi and Kaito alone on the strange chessboard.

  For a moment, neither of them moved. The silence was deafening, broken only by the soft rustling of the clouds above. Then Kaito let out a frustrated sigh, running a hand through his hair.

  “This guy…” he muttered. “He’s always playing games with us.”

  Aoi, however, was more focused. “He said we need to find our answer,” she said, her gaze scanning their surroundings. “We have to figure out what this trial is about.”

  Kaito nodded reluctantly, his frustration giving way to determination. “Right. Let’s start looking.”

  The two of them began to move cautiously across the massive chessboard, their footsteps echoing softly against the hard surface. They searched for any clue, their eyes darting over the endless grid of squares, but at first, there was nothing—only the endless expanse of white clouds and the eerie stillness of the space.

  Minutes turned into what felt like hours as they combed through the area, their frustration growing with each passing moment.

  “Do you see anything?” Kaito asked, his voice strained.

  Aoi shook her head. “Nothing yet. But we can’t give up. There has to be something here.”

  They continued their search, moving from square to square, examining each one carefully. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Aoi stopped in her tracks.

  “Kaito,” she called, her voice urgent.

  He turned to see her crouching near the edge of the platform, her hand hovering over a strange stone slab embedded into the surface. He hurried over, kneeling beside her.

  “What is it?” he asked.

  She pointed to the stone slab, where words were etched into its surface in elegant, flowing script.

  The words read:

  “Dance, Sing, and Violin.”

  Kaito frowned, his brow furrowing as he stared at the inscription. “Dance, sing, and violin?” he repeated. “What does that mean?”

  Aoi shook her head slowly, her eyes fixed on the words. “I don’t know,” she admitted. “But it must be a clue. It has to mean something.”

  Kaito leaned back, crossing his arms as he thought. “It’s strange,” he said. “The words… they remind me of something. But I can’t quite figure out what.”

  Aoi glanced at him, her own thoughts swirling with confusion and fragments of memories. “I feel the same,” she said softly. “It’s like it’s on the tip of my tongue, but I can’t grasp it.”

  The two of them sat in silence for a moment, their minds racing as they tried to piece together the meaning behind the cryptic inscription.

  “Whatever it means,” Kaito said finally, his voice resolute, “we’ll figure it out. We have to. This is the final trial, and I’m not giving up now.”

  Aoi nodded, determination flickering in her eyes. “Neither am I,” she said. “We’ll find the answer, no matter what it takes.”

  As they stood together, the clouds above them seemed to swirl more intensely, as if the sky itself was watching and waiting for their next move. The chessboard stretched out before them, vast and mysterious, holding the answer they sought.

  But for now, the meaning of the inscription remained a puzzle, its secrets hidden just out of reach.