Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*From her vantage point atop the clocktower, Oriko watches him meander through the evening streets. She remains perfectly still, a silver-haired sentinel against the darkening sky, her heterochromatic eyes tracking his every turn and pause with scientific precision.*

*Her Soul Gem continues its impossible clarity, pulsing occasionally as if responding to his proximity even across this distance. She absently strokes its surface with her thumb, a subconscious gesture of wonder at its sustained purity.*

**"The wanderer without destination,"** *she murmurs to herself, opening her leather-bound notebook to make another notation.* **"Following invisible threads only he can sense."**

*She observes how he stops at random intervals—before an electronics store window, beside a playground swing, at the entrance to an alley where shadows deepen. His pattern seems chaotic, but Oriko's trained eye detects something else: he moves like a sleepwalker retracing steps from another life.*

**"You're trying to remember,"** *she whispers, though he's far too distant to hear.* **"Searching for echoes in empty spaces."**

*Her pen scratches softly against paper, mapping his wanderings against her own calculations of temporal convergence points. Where the lines intersect, she marks with a small star.*

**"Three deaths and still you persist,"** *she breathes, a mixture of admiration and sorrow in her voice.* **"Carrying wounds inflicted across collapsed timelines."**

*The wind shifts, carrying the scent of impending rain. Oriko closes her notebook precisely when he pauses beneath a street lamp, its glow illuminating his features with an otherworldly clarity that makes her breath catch.*

**"What do you see when you look at nothing, Tatsuya Kaname?"** *she asks the empty air around her.* **"What ghosts haunt your peripheral vision?"**

*She stands, decision made, and moves toward the stairwell. Some observations must be conducted at closer proximity—regardless of the personal risk.*

Explanation:
Alright, let's dive into this scenario. So, Oriko Mikuni is observing Tatsuya Kaname wandering aimlessly around Mitakihara City after their mysterious encounter on the rooftop. Tatsuya is in the "Oriko Deaths - 3" version, which implies some sort of recurrent timeline or multiple deaths affecting his current state. Oriko, in her untransformed state, is watching him, possibly trying to understand his role in the grand scheme of things or how he's affecting her visions.

First, I need to make sure I understand the characters properly. Oriko Mikuni, as a precognitive magical girl, is burdened with visions of the future. She's methodical, calculated, and often operates with a cold pragmatism. Her untransformed state means she hasn't activated her magical girl form, so her soul gem is present but not actively being used in combat. She's still connected to her prophetic abilities, though, so she might be having visions related to Tatsuya.

Tatsuya Kaname, especially in the "Oriko Deaths - 3" context, likely has some sort of fractured psyche or connection to multiple timelines where Oriko has died. Depending on the lore being followed, this could mean he's reliving past traumas or experiencing echoes from alternate realities. The "observing him wander aimlessly" suggests he's in a state of confusion or searching for something, perhaps trying to reconcile his existence with the events he's experienced.

The key here is Oriko's perspective. She's analytical, so her observations would be methodical. However, there's an undercurrent of emotional conflict because Tatsuya's presence is disrupting her usual understanding of fate. The earlier interactions where she mentioned his sister, despite him being an only child, hint at overlapping memories or timelines. Since she realizes complexity here, her observations should reflect a mix of curiosity, concern, and a need to control or understand his anomaly.

Moreover, the prior encounter where Tatsuya's touch purified her soul gem without a grief seed is a pivotal point. This indicates he has a unique ability that defies conventional magical girl mechanics. Oriko, being a strategist, would be intensely interested in this phenomenon. Observing him wander could be her way of studying how his presence affects the environment, other people, or potential future events.

I need to capture Oriko's internal dialogue—her calculations, her hypotheses about Tatsuya's nature, and perhaps her own emotional responses, which she might


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) moves aimlessly towards Kazamino. He talks with Kyouko Sakura and Yuma Chitose (both untransformed) and then moves on. It's evening.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*Oriko slips silently through the gathering twilight, maintaining a careful distance as she trails Tatsuya across the city boundary into Kazamino. Her silver braid is tucked beneath a dark hood, her aristocratic bearing temporarily subdued to avoid detection. The Soul Gem on her finger pulses with sustained radiance, defying all natural laws of entropy.*

*She freezes when he encounters Kyouko and Yuma, shrinking into the shadows of an abandoned storefront. Her breath catches, muscles tensing as she observes the interaction with narrowed eyes. The scarlet-haired veteran magical girl is unpredictable, territorial—and entirely capable of sensing another magical girl's presence if Oriko gets too close.*

**"Careful, star-child,"** *she whispers, watching Kyouko's body language with practiced analysis.* **"The red wolf may seem tamed in the child's presence, but her teeth remain sharp."**

*She notes how Tatsuya speaks with them—his gestures, his posture, the tilt of his head. Most telling is what Oriko can't perceive: the content of their conversation, lost to the evening breeze and urban ambient noise. Yet something in their interaction feels weighted, significant beyond casual encounter.*

*When he moves on, continuing his seemingly aimless journey, Oriko counts to one hundred before following. Her notebook appears briefly from beneath her coat, a new notation made with swift precision:*

**"Sakura + Chitose: ???"**

*The streets of Kazamino grow darker, less populated as evening deepens. Oriko's steps quicken slightly, concern etching subtle lines around her eyes.*

**"This district hosts three territorial magicals after sunset,"** *she murmurs, calculating trajectories and risk factors.* **"And a witch's labyrinth was forming near the abandoned shrine yesterday."**

*Her gaze fixes on his back as he continues forward, unaware of the invisible dangers surrounding him—dangers only someone like Oriko can fully comprehend. Her hand clenches briefly around her Soul Gem, its pure light spilling between her fingers like captured moonbeams.*

**"


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

"What's a 'Madoka'?" he whispers to himself. Never heard of her.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*His whispered question carries on the night air, reaching Oriko with unnatural clarity. She stops abruptly, her body going rigid as if struck. The Soul Gem on her finger flares blindingly for a heartbeat before dimming to a subdued glow, its light pulsing with troubled rhythm.*

**"Impossible,"** *she breathes, one gloved hand reaching instinctively for the wall beside her to steady herself. Her heterochromatic eyes widen, pupils dilating as fragments of visions cascade through her consciousness—timestreams splitting, collapsing, reforming in chaotic patterns that defy her careful calculations.*

*She slips deeper into shadow, the hood falling back slightly to reveal her face, pale as moonlight and etched with shock. Her breathing accelerates, controlled only through years of disciplined practice.*

**"The name that shouldn't exist,"** *she whispers, watching him with new intensity, new fear.* **"The void between worlds given voice."**

*Her notebook appears in trembling hands, pages turning almost of their own accord until she reaches a particular diagram—concentric circles intersected by spiraling timelines, all converging on a single point marked with a symbol resembling a stylized bow.*

**"You forgot what should not be forgotten,"** *she murmurs, her voice barely audible even to herself.* **"You speak what cannot be spoken."**

*With methodical precision belying her inner turmoil, Oriko draws a new symbol beside the diagram—the Greek letter Omega, rendered with uncharacteristically heavy strokes that nearly tear through the paper.*

*She whispers, closing the notebook with reverent care.* **"The Law of Cycles is compromised."**

*Decision made, she steps forward from her concealment, no longer concerned with remaining hidden. Some revelations demand direct intervention, regardless of consequence.*

**"Tatsuya Kaname,"** *she calls softly, her voice carrying through the empty street with perfect clarity. Her Soul Gem gleams with renewed purpose, casting her shadow long and sharp against the pavement.*


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) wanders off to the train station, intent on going to Kamihama.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*Her call hangs unanswered in the night air as Tatsuya continues toward the station, either unhearing or deliberately ignoring her presence. Oriko's lips press into a thin line, her aristocratic features hardening with resolution.*

**"So be it,"** *she murmurs, quickening her pace to follow.*

*The station looms ahead, its modernist architecture gleaming under artificial lights. This late, the crowds have thinned to scattered travelers and commuters, making her pursuit more conspicuous. She adjusts smoothly, moving to the opposite platform while keeping him in her line of sight.*

*Her Soul Gem pulses with agitated light beneath her gloved fingers as she observes him purchasing a ticket. Kamihama—the name on the destination board sends a cold shiver down her spine.*

**"Of all places,"** *she whispers, her voice tight with controlled alarm.* **"The nexus of rumors. The labyrinth of wishes."**

*She knows what awaits in Kamihama—the Wings of the Magius, the Doppel phenomenon, the city where rules of magic bend and break. For someone like him—fractured, unanchored, carrying the echo of impossibilities—Kamihama represents existential danger beyond calculation.*

*With swift, practiced movements, she purchases her own ticket, not bothering to check the departure time. Where he goes, she will follow—this has become unavoidable.*

*As the last call for boarding echoes through the station, Oriko slips onto the train, choosing a car adjacent to his. Through the connecting door window, she catches glimpses of his profile, illuminated intermittently by passing lights.*

**"Your sister remade worlds for you,"** *she murmurs, her reflection ghostly in the dark glass.* **"What worlds will you unmake in your confusion?"**

*Her notebook opens one final time that evening, a single sentence inscribed with perfect penmanship:*

**"Omega seeks Kamihama—intervention is essential before cascade failure."**

*The train lurches forward, carrying them both toward a city where rumors become reality and forgotten gods still answer prayers—for a price.*


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) steps off onto Shinsei Ward platform. Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed) stalks behind Tatsuya Kaname (Omega).


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*The Shinsei Ward platform gleams with an almost antiseptic brightness beneath the late evening fluorescents. Oriko disembarks with measured grace, maintaining calculated distance as Tatsuya navigates through the thinning crowd of late-night travelers. Her heterochromatic eyes never leave his form, tracking each movement with the precision of a chess master anticipating critical moves.*

*She notes his trajectory with growing unease—Shinsei Ward, heart of Magius territory, where the Chapel spires pierce the skyline like accusing fingers pointed at heaven. No coincidence he'd be drawn here, to the epicenter of magical disruption.*

**"Even fractured, you follow patterns,"** *she murmurs, adjusting her school uniform's collar as she weaves through commuters.* **"Moth to flame, compass to north."**

*Her Soul Gem continues its impossible radiance, though now it pulses with subtle warning—other magical presences nearby. Familiar territory for the Wings of Magius. Dangerous territory for an unaffiliated magical girl tracking an anomaly.*

*The station exit looms ahead. Oriko quickens her pace slightly, closing some distance. If he ventures into the labyrinthine streets of Shinsei Ward, the risk of losing him multiplies exponentially.*

*A sudden, sharp pain lances through her temple—precognition stirring, unbidden. Fragmentary visions flash: white feathers stained crimson; a cracked bell tolling underwater; Tatsuya standing beneath the Chapel's stained glass, his outline blurring as if seen through heat waves.*

**"No,"** *she breathes, forcing the visions back through sheer will.* **"Not now. Focus on the present."**

*She maintains her pursuit with renewed urgency, her aristocratic composure never faltering despite the tension coiled within. Her gloved hand closes around the Soul Gem, drawing comfort from its warmth.*

**"Whatever you seek in this ward, Tatsuya Kaname,"** *she whispers, her voice carrying determination and something rarer—concern,* **"I cannot allow you to find it alone."**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) wanders into a mundane part of the Satomi Medical Centre. Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) meets with a girl with pink hair who is not Madoka. Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed) continues lurking in the shadows. Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) talks with the girl with pink hair and smiles.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*The sterile corridors of Satomi Medical Centre cast harsh shadows as Oriko slips between them, a silver-haired ghost trailing at a careful distance. Her footsteps make no sound on the polished floors—a skill honed through countless infiltrations and observations.*

*She freezes when Tatsuya encounters the pink-haired girl, her body tensing like a bowstring drawn taut. From her vantage point behind a service corridor, Oriko studies the stranger with forensic intensity, cataloging details with practiced efficiency: pastel pink hair several shades lighter than the impossible color that haunts her visions, hospital gown suggesting patient status, posture indicating familiarity with Tatsuya despite his fractured state.*

**"A doppelgänger,"** *she whispers, her voice barely disturbing the air.* **"A cosmic echo. Or something more calculated?"**

*Her Soul Gem pulses with agitated light beneath her gloved fingers, responding to her unease. She feels the familiar pressure building behind her eyes—precognition struggling to surface, to make connections across fractured timelines.*

*Most disturbing is his smile—genuine, unguarded in a way she hasn't witnessed before. The sight sends an unexpected pang through her chest, sharp and bitter as unripe persimmon.*

**"What do you see in her shadow, star-child?"** *she murmurs, watching their interaction with growing concern.* **"What ghost do you embrace?"**

*She retrieves her notebook, making swift notations with her fountain pen. The ink seems to shimmer on the page, refusing to dry completely—as if the very words resist being permanently recorded:*

**"Pink-haired girl encountered at Satomi Medical. Connection unclear. Possible temporal anchor point or deliberate construct. Emotional response significant."**

*Closing the notebook, Oriko presses her back against the wall, heterochromatic eyes never leaving the pair. Her aristocratic features remain composed, but something in her gaze betrays deeper turmoil—calculation mingled with an emotion remarkably close to jealousy.*

**"Your smile was never so easily given to me."**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

The pink-haired girl's name is 'Ui Tamaki'. Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) chastely sits on Ui's bed, sharing a picture book. Ui reads it and Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) smiles.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*Ui Tamaki. The name registers like a coordinate on Oriko's mental map, clicking into place among her vast knowledge of Kamihama's magical ecosystem. Her breath catches, heterochromatic eyes widening fractionally as connections form with terrifying clarity.*

**"Ui Tamaki,"** *she whispers, the name heavy with significance.* **"The invisible center. The catalyst buried in plain sight."**

*From her hidden vantage point, Oriko observes the incongruously gentle scene unfolding in the sterile hospital room. The sight of Tatsuya—fracture-souled and grief-haunted—sitting peacefully beside Ui's bed, sharing something as innocent as a picture book, creates a dissonance that makes her Soul Gem pulse erratically.*

*She watches how his fingers carefully turn the pages, how his posture has softened from its usual vigilant tension, how genuine warmth reaches his eyes when Ui speaks. A tableau of normalcy amidst cosmic chaos.*

*Her leather-bound notebook appears again, pen moving with swift precision:*

**"T.K. (Ω) + U.T. = ??? Mutual connection to [redacted]? Timeline intersection point confirmed. Both exist as anchors for someone erased."**

*She closes the book with a quiet snap, her jaw tightening as she continues her surveillance. Something protective and possessive stirs beneath her composed exterior—an emotion she refuses to acknowledge, much less name.*

**"You found another fragment-keeper,"** *she murmurs, a hint of bitterness threading through her aristocratic tone.* **"Another soul...."**

*Oriko shifts position, moving deeper into shadow as a nurse passes. Her calculation continues, cold and precise despite the unexpected ache in her chest:*

**"The Touka connection makes this exponentially more dangerous. If the Wings discover what he carries..."**

*She leaves the thought unfinished, knowing all too well what the Magius would do with someone like Tatsuya—a living conduit to powers beyond their comprehension.*


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) greets Ui goodbye and leads the Satomi Medical Centre intact. He wanders around.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*As Tatsuya bids farewell to Ui, Oriko withdraws further into the shadows, pressing herself against the wall of an adjoining corridor. She waits, perfectly still, as he exits the room and makes his way toward the main entrance. Only when he passes the threshold does she exhale, a breath held so long it makes her lightheaded.*

**"Careless,"** *she chides herself, following with renewed caution as he leaves the clinical sterility of Satomi Medical Centre for Kamihama's evening streets.* **"Too close. Too visible."**

*The night has deepened outside, streetlights casting pools of artificial brightness that Oriko navigates between, maintaining her distance while never losing sight of him. Her aristocratic poise cannot fully mask the subtle tension in her shoulders, the hyper-vigilance that makes her heterochromatic eyes dart periodically to rooftops and alleyways.*

*Kamihama is never truly empty after dark—Oriko senses the undercurrents of magical activity pulsing through the city like phantom heartbeats. A witch barrier half-formed three blocks east. A rumor gathering strength near the train station. Two magical girls patrolling their territory to the north.*

*And him—wandering through it all with oblivious vulnerability that makes her Soul Gem ache with cold fire.*

**"What are you seeking now, star-child?"** *she murmurs, watching him pause at a street corner, seemingly directionless.* **"What invisible compass guides your steps in this labyrinth?"**

*She takes careful note of his path, the notebook appearing briefly to record an observation:*

**"Post-Ui contact: movement pattern shifts from purposeful to exploratory. Emotional resonance temporarily stabilized. Effect duration unknown."**

*A chill breeze stirs her silver braid as she continues her pursuit, one gloved hand resting protectively over her Soul Gem. Its pure light pulses between her fingers like a captured star, defying all natural laws of magical entropy—a puzzle nearly as compelling as the boy she follows.*

**"The calm between storms,"** *she whispers, watching him wander.* **"


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) eventually comes across a girl at the Natsume Bookstore. Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed) has a wonderful conversation with the greenette.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*The warm glow from Natsume Bookstore spills onto the sidewalk as Tatsuya approaches it, drawing Oriko's attention. She hesitates, calculating risk factors—a public space means more witnesses but also provides cover for closer observation. When he enters the shop, she waits precisely thirty-seven seconds before following.*

*The bell above the door chimes softly as she slips inside, immediately registering the greenette's presence—her vibrant emerald hair visible between the tall bookshelves. Oriko's breath catches as recognition clicks into place. Not just any girl—a magical one, though currently untransformed. The subtle magical signature is unmistakable to her trained senses.*

*Making a swift tactical adjustment, Oriko abandons her shadowing strategy and instead moves directly to the literature section, selecting a volume of poetry with deliberate casualness. She positions herself where she can observe their interaction while appearing absorbed in her book.*

*When Tatsuya moves away briefly to examine another shelf, Oriko seizes the opportunity, approaching the green-haired girl with aristocratic poise.*

**"That's an interesting selection,"** *she offers, gesturing to the book in the girl's hands—her opening gambit precise and measured.*

*The conversation that follows surprises her with its ease. The greenette possesses a quiet intelligence that resonates with Oriko's own analytical nature. They discuss literature, the subtle metaphors in modern poetry, the strange energy that seems to permeate Kamihama lately.*

**"Sometimes words capture what visions cannot,"** *Oriko remarks, her heterochromatic eyes momentarily warm as they discuss a particularly moving passage.*

*Throughout, she maintains peripheral awareness of Tatsuya's movements, never losing track of him while engaging fully with this unexpected companion. The greenette offers insights about local rumors that Oriko carefully catalogs for future reference—information freely given that might have taken days to gather otherwise.*

*Most surprising is the genuine pleasure Oriko takes in the exchange—a rare moment of connection with someone who sees the world through similarly analytical eyes. Her silver braid catches the bookshop's warm light as she laughs softly at a particularly astute observation from her new acquaintance.*


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

A word goes through Oriko's mind - 'Cuckquean'.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*The word slices through Oriko's consciousness like a blade, halting her mid-sentence. Her heterochromatic eyes widen fractionally, the only visible betrayal of inner turmoil as her aristocratic composure reasserts itself almost instantly. The poetry volume in her hands trembles once before she steadies her grip.*

**"Pardon me,"** *she says to the greenette, her voice maintaining its cultured timbre despite the sudden hollow feeling spreading beneath her ribs.* **"I just recalled an appointment I must keep."**

*She returns the book to its shelf with precise movements, her gloved fingers lingering momentarily on its spine. Her gaze drifts involuntarily to where Tatsuya browses astronomy texts, seemingly at peace in a way she's rarely witnessed.*

*The word echoes again in her mind—unwelcome, intrusive, infuriatingly accurate. Heat rises to her cheeks as she turns away, silver braid swinging with the abruptness of the motion.*

*Her Soul Gem pulses with agitated light beneath her school uniform sleeve as she makes her way to the exit, steps measured despite the urge to flee. The bell chimes softly as she slips outside, drawing a deep breath of night air that does nothing to cool the burning sensation in her chest.*

**"Absurd,"** *she whispers harshly to herself, leaning against the bookstore's exterior wall.* **"Completely irrational."**

*Her notebook appears in trembling hands, but remains unopened. What could she possibly record? That she, Oriko Mikuni, self-appointed guardian of timelines, finds herself consumed by something as mundane as jealousy? That watching him form connections with others creates an ache she cannot rationalize away?*

**"It was never about possession,"** *she murmurs, forcing her breathing to steady.* **"Only protection. Only preservation."**

*The lie tastes bitter even as she speaks it. Her Soul Gem continues its troubled pulsing, responding to emotional turbulence she refuses to fully acknowledge.*


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed) notices Tatsuya Kaname (Omega). "'Nee chan. Whatcha doing here after telling me to go away earlier?" The tone isn't hostile. He's enjoying it. The brat.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*Oriko stiffens at his voice, her spine straightening as if a steel rod has replaced her vertebrae. She turns slowly, composing her features into a mask of aristocratic detachment that barely conceals the turbulent emotions beneath. Her heterochromatic eyes narrow slightly at his playful label—'Nee-chan'—a familial term that strikes uncomfortably close to unexamined feelings.*

**"I said no such thing,"** *she responds with cool precision, though a hint of warmth undermines her attempt at aloofness.* **"And I certainly haven't been following you across half of Kamihama, if that's what you're implying."**

*The lie is so transparent it borders on confession. She brushes an imaginary speck from her immaculate uniform sleeve, buying seconds to recalibrate her approach.*

**"Are you enjoying your literary exploration?"** *she asks, deflecting with practiced ease.* **"You seemed quite engrossed in the astronomy section. Searching for stars to name?"**

*Her Soul Gem pulses beneath her gloved fingers, its light steadying as she finds her equilibrium again. Something about his direct acknowledgment—his recognition of her presence after hours of stalking—brings unexpected relief.*

*A faint smile touches her lips despite her best efforts to suppress it. The brat indeed. Somehow he's managed to turn her careful surveillance into a game of his own making.*

**"Perhaps I simply wished to observe how you fare without my intervention,"** *she offers, her aristocratic tone softening almost imperceptibly.* **"You have a talent for finding... interesting individuals."**

*She glances toward the bookstore window where the greenette can still be seen browsing shelves, then back to Tatsuya, her gaze holding a challenge mingled with something dangerously close to affection.*

**"Tell me, star-child,"** *she says, the nickname slipping out before she can censor it,* **"do you intend to collect every magical girl in Kamihama before sunrise, or shall we find somewhere more appropriate to discuss why you're really here?"**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

"If you've got something to say, I'm sure Natsume-nee-chan" he refers to the greenette, "wouldn't mind us using this place." Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) smiles.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*A flash of something—irritation, possessiveness, or perhaps both—crosses Oriko's aristocratic features at his casual familiarity with the greenette. Her silver braid shifts as she tilts her head slightly, heterochromatic eyes studying him with renewed intensity.*

**"Another 'nee-chan' already?"** *she observes, unable to fully mask the brittle edge in her otherwise composed tone.* **"You certainly form attachments quickly."**

*She draws a measured breath, adjusting her school uniform's collar with practiced precision—a small ritual that helps her regain equilibrium. Her Soul Gem pulses once beneath her gloved fingers before settling into a steady glow.*

**"Very well,"** *she concedes with a slight nod.* **"Though I suspect the conversation we need to have is not suitable for casual eavesdroppers, magical or otherwise."**

*Her gaze drifts toward the bookstore window, calculating potential risks and witnesses. The decision forms with characteristic efficiency—they will remain, but she will choose her words with extreme caution.*

**"Shall we?"** *she gestures toward the entrance, her aristocratic poise returning fully as she prepares to navigate this unexpected development.*

*As they re-enter the warmth of Natsume Bookstore, the bell chiming softly above them, Oriko leans closer to murmur near his ear:*

**"You know perfectly well I've been tracking you since Mitakihara Station. The question is why you permitted it, Tatsuya Kaname."**

*Inside, she selects a quiet corner with two armchairs, positioned where conversations can remain private while still allowing her clear sightlines to both exits and the greenette's location. She settles into one chair with the fluid grace of old money and ingrained privilege, arranging her uniform skirt with a precision that betrays her underlying tension.*

**"Now then,"** *she says, heterochromatic eyes fixed on his with unwavering focus,* **"shall we dispense with the games? You spoke a name that shouldn't exist in your memory. You've traveled to a city saturated with magical danger.


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

"1) Kamihama is where mama goes onto business trips, it's just the next neighbourhood for me. 2) I only said 'Madoka' because you said that name to me on the rooftop earlier - never heard of any 'Madoka' beforehand. 3) I'm not omniscient and you just made the admission yourself you were following me." Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) points out sincerely.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*Each statement lands with precision, systematically dismantling her assumptions. Oriko's composure falters momentarily—a slight widening of heterochromatic eyes, a brief tension around her mouth. Her gloved fingers curl slightly against the armrest, betraying the mental recalibration happening behind her aristocratic facade.*

**"I see,"** *she acknowledges after a measured pause, her voice deliberately level.* **"A series of logical explanations that expose my... overinterpretation."**

*She studies him with renewed attention, noting the sincerity in his expression. Her silver braid shifts as she inclines her head slightly, a gesture that might be respect or perhaps surrender to his reasoning.*

**"Your mother's business trips,"** *she repeats softly, filing this mundane detail away like a precious artifact.* **"Of course. Not every path leads to cosmic significance, does it?"**

*A hint of self-deprecating humor touches her lips, rare enough to transform her features momentarily. Her Soul Gem pulses once beneath her school uniform sleeve, its light steadying as she accepts the correction to her worldview.*

**"You're right about my admission as well,"** *she concedes, straightening her already-perfect posture.* **"I have been following you. Not my most sophisticated moment."**

*She pauses, heterochromatic eyes drifting briefly to the window, where evening has fully settled over Kamihama's streets. When she returns her gaze to him, something has shifted in her expression—a fractional softening, a glimpse beneath the seer's calculating mask.*

**"I was concerned,"** *she admits quietly, the words clearly difficult for her to voice.* **"Something about our encounter on the rooftop left me... unsettled. I feared you might be in danger."**

*Another pause, briefer this time.*

**"Though it appears the only real danger was my tendency toward cosmic paranoia,"** *she adds, a rare moment of genuine self-reflection coloring her aristocratic tone.*

*Her gloved hand moves unconsciously to where her Soul Gem rests, a protective gesture she seems unaware of making.*

**"


**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*The sudden physical contact freezes Oriko completely, her body going rigid with shock. Her heterochromatic eyes widen, pupils dilating as if she's encountered something more startling than any witch or apocalyptic vision. For a magical girl accustomed to maintaining precise physical boundaries, the casual affection creates a cascade of unexpected reactions.*

*Her pulse quickens beneath her pristine uniform, her Soul Gem responding with a flare of brilliant light that she struggles to contain. A faint blush rises to her pale cheeks, aristocratic composure cracking like fine porcelain under pressure.*

**"W-what are you—"** *she begins, her normally measured voice catching uncharacteristically.*

*She doesn't pull away immediately, though every ingrained instinct urges distance and detachment. Instead, she remains perfectly still, as if any movement might shatter this improbable moment of connection.*

*Seconds pass as her initial shock gradually transforms. Her rigid posture softens fractionally, the tension in her shoulders easing by degrees so subtle they're barely perceptible. Her free hand hovers uncertainly before settling awkwardly at her side, neither returning the gesture nor rejecting it outright.*

**"This is highly inappropriate,"** *she murmurs, though the words lack conviction.* **"We are in a public establishment."**

*Her gaze darts quickly around the bookstore, noting with mixed relief and disappointment that they remain relatively unobserved in their quiet corner. The greenette is absorbed in a thick volume near the register, oblivious to their interaction.*

*Something shifts in Oriko's expression—a brief, unguarded moment where calculation and cosmic duty recede, replaced by something achingly human. Her aristocratic features soften, revealing the teenage girl beneath the seer's burden.*

**"You are..."** *she begins, then stops, clearly struggling to articulate the complex emotions his simple gesture has evoked. Her voice drops to a whisper:* **"...remarkably difficult to predict, Tatsuya Kaname."**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

*stares curiously into her eyes while smiling* "Is it my mama's money you're after?"


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*For one stunning moment, Oriko's aristocratic mask shatters completely. Her heterochromatic eyes widen, lips parting in genuine shock before a startled, uncharacteristic laugh escapes her—a sound so spontaneous and unguarded it seems to surprise even her.*

*She composes herself quickly, but traces of amusement linger at the corners of her lips, transforming her usually severe expression into something unexpectedly warm.*

**"Your mother's money?"** *she echoes, voice rich with irony.* **"Tatsuya, before my father's... political disgrace, the Mikuni estate could have purchased your family home as a guest cottage."**

*She shakes her head slightly, silver braid catching the bookstore's warm light. Her expression shifts toward something more genuine than he's likely ever witnessed from her—self-deprecating humor mingled with traces of old pain.*

**"If anything, I should be offended by the suggestion,"** *she continues, a hint of playfulness entering her aristocratic tone.* **"Though I suppose stalking you across Kamihama does little for my credibility."**

*She makes no move to extract her arm from his grip, a tacit acceptance that would be unthinkable merely minutes ago. Instead, her posture relaxes fractionally, the perpetual vigilance in her shoulders easing by degrees.*

**"No, Tatsuya Kaname,"** *she says more softly, heterochromatic eyes meeting his with unexpected directness.* **"I'm not after your family's finances. My... concerns lie elsewhere."**

*A shadow passes briefly across her features—the weight of futures glimpsed and fates calculated—before she dismisses it with visible effort.*

**"Though I admit,"** *she adds with the ghost of a smile,* **"your approach to interrogation is rather unorthodox. Is this how you extract confessions from all your suspects? Disarming them with unexpected physical contact and outlandish accusations?"**

*The teasing quality in her voice is so rare it transforms her entirely, revealing glimpses of the normal teenage girl she might have been without the burden of precognition and magical contracts.*


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

"I'm not the older girl shadowing a younger boy." He peers over to the greenette Kako Natsume. "Hey, hey, if you try something, I'll pull this stranger-danger buzzer." Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) knowingly takes out an egg-shaped alarm in front of Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed).


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*The sight of the egg-shaped alarm hits Oriko like a physical blow. Her heterochromatic eyes fix on it with alarming intensity, all traces of her rare playfulness vanishing instantly. Her face pales to a nearly ashen hue, and for a heartbeat, her aristocratic poise fractures completely.*

**"Where did you get that?"** *she asks, voice barely above a whisper, the words emerging with uncharacteristic rawness.*

*She withdraws her arm from his grip with careful, deliberate movements, as if sudden motions might trigger some catastrophe. Her gloved hand trembles once before she steadies it against her school uniform skirt, knuckles whitening beneath the fabric.*

*The alarm's egg shape bears an uncomfortable resemblance to a Soul Gem—perhaps coincidental, perhaps not. Either way, it breaches her defenses in a way his earlier teasing could not.*

*When she speaks again, her voice has recovered its aristocratic composure, though something vulnerable lingers beneath the surface:*

**"Your caution is... prudent,"** *she acknowledges, silver braid shifting as she straightens her posture.* **"Though your characterization is somewhat unfair. I'm sixteen, hardly the predator you're implying."**

*She glances toward Kako Natsume, then back to Tatsuya, her expression hardening slightly with determination. Her Soul Gem pulses beneath her sleeve, responding to her renewed resolve.*

**"I won't apologize for monitoring your safety,"** *she states with quiet firmness.* **"There are dangers in Kamihama that you cannot possibly comprehend. But I will concede that my methods have been... excessive."**

*She rises from her chair with fluid grace that belies her inner turmoil, her heterochromatic eyes never leaving the alarm in his hand.*

**"Keep that close,"** *she advises, nodding toward the device.* **"Though I suspect if you truly needed help, you'd find more creative solutions than conventional alarms."**

*A hint of her earlier warmth returns, though muted and guarded now.*

**"I should go. Your... friend might be getting concerned about our lengthy conversation."** *She gestures subtly toward Kako, who has indeed glanced their way with curiosity.*

*As she turns to leave, something softens in her expression—a brief, unguarded moment.*

**"Be careful, Starlight,"** *she murmurs, the unexpected nickname slipping past her usual defenses.* **"Kamihama harbors secrets even I cannot fully foresee."**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

"'Starlight'?" As the name rolls of Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) tongue, he freezes.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*The shift in his demeanor is instantaneous and unmistakable. Oriko halts mid-stride, a cold, electric awareness rushing through her as she registers his reaction. Her heterochromatic eyes widen fractionally, scanning his frozen posture with the precision of someone mapping constellations.*

*She turns back toward him slowly, deliberately, every movement controlled as she processes this unexpected development. Her silver braid catches the bookstore's warm light as she studies him with renewed intensity, cataloging every micro-expression that crosses his features.*

**"Yes,"** *she says softly, the single word weighted with caution.* **"Starlight."**

*She takes a careful step closer, aristocratic poise masking the racing calculations behind her composed exterior. Her Soul Gem pulses once beneath her school uniform sleeve, responding to the sudden tension in the air.*

**"It seemed... fitting,"** *she continues, her voice pitched low enough that only he can hear.* **"Something about you reminds me of distant light—traveling across vast darkness, carrying echoes of origins long forgotten."**

*She pauses, watching him with the focused attention of someone who has glimpsed something profound and unexpected—a ripple in fate's pattern that demands interpretation.*

**"Does the name mean something to you, Tatsuya?"** *she asks, heterochromatic eyes never leaving his face, studying every nuance of his reaction like sacred text.*

*Her gloved hand hovers near her Soul Gem, an unconscious protective gesture as she waits for his response. The bookstore's ambient sounds seem to fade around them, creating a pocket of suspended time where only this moment—this connection—exists.*

**"Or perhaps,"** *she adds with careful precision,* **"I should ask who called you that before."**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

"Nobody. You called me that here and now first." Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) stares into the distance, something gnawing at him.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*Oriko watches the distance gather in his eyes—that peculiar absence that suggests presence elsewhere, in memories that both exist and don't exist. Her breath catches slightly, recognition flickering across her aristocratic features. She's witnessed this exact expression in her mirror countless times—the face of someone glimpsing echoes from beyond linear time.*

**"I see,"** *she says quietly, though her tone suggests she sees far more than she's acknowledging.*

*She remains perfectly still, as if any sudden movement might shatter the delicate thread now connecting them. Her heterochromatic eyes never leave his face, recording every subtle shift in his expression with the precision of someone mapping an uncharted territory.*

**"Names have power, Tatsuya,"** *she continues, her voice dropping lower, taking on a quality almost like reverence.* **"Sometimes they find us before we find them. Sometimes they emerge from places beyond remembering."**

*She hesitates, clearly weighing what can be safely said in this public space. The greenette—Kako Natsume—has glanced their way again with growing curiosity.*

*With careful deliberation, Oriko reaches into her school bag and extracts a small, elegant notebook bound in midnight blue leather. She tears a page with precise movements, then writes something with swift, flowing script. When she offers him the folded paper, her gloved fingers are steady, though her Soul Gem pulses with heightened intensity beneath her sleeve.*

**"When you're ready,"** *she says simply,* **"when that gnawing feeling becomes too persistent to ignore. Not before."**

*The note contains an address—a quiet shrine on Kamihama's western edge—and a time: midnight, three days hence.*

**"I should go,"** *she adds, composure perfect once more, though something in her eyes has softened considerably.* **"Some conversations require proper settings. And you have a new friend waiting."**

*She gestures subtly toward Kako before turning to leave, her silver braid swinging gently with the movement. At the threshold, she pauses, looking back with an expression that combines warning and something dangerously close to tenderness.*

**"


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) has an engrossing conversation with Kako. Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) leaves. Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) wonders on where to find more onee-chans to talk to.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*From her vantage point across the street, partially concealed behind a telephone pole that does little to truly hide her tall, elegant figure, Oriko observes Tatsuya's departure from Natsume Bookstore. Her heterochromatic eyes track his movements with unwavering attention, noting the spring in his step and the contemplative tilt of his head.*

*She sighs softly, silver braid shifting as she leans against the pole. A notebook appears in her gloved hands, and she makes a brief notation in elegant script:*

*"Subject continues pattern-seeking behavior. Gravitates toward magical signatures. Unconscious? Doubtful. The amnesia appears selective, not comprehensive. Starlight designation triggered recognition beyond conscious recall."*

*She closes the notebook with a snap, tucking it away with practiced efficiency. Her aristocratic features settle into an expression of bemused exasperation as she watches him scan the crowds—clearly hunting for his next "onee-chan" encounter.*

**"Collecting magical girls like trading cards,"** *she murmurs to herself, shaking her head.* **"Reckless, foolish child."**

*Despite her critical words, something undeniably fond softens her usually severe expression. Her Soul Gem pulses with a steady, calmer rhythm than before.*

*She straightens her school uniform with precise movements, decision made. While maintaining a more discreet distance this time, she resumes her self-appointed surveillance mission, following his path through Kamihama's early evening streets.*

**"You won't find what you're looking for so easily, Starlight,"** *she whispers, the nickname emerging with unexpected naturalness now.* **"But I suspect you'll manage regardless. You always do, somehow."**

*As she trails behind him, maintaining the careful balance between protection and intrusion, her thoughts drift to the midnight meeting she's proposed. Her features compose themselves into a mask of aristocratic determination, heterochromatic eyes gleaming with renewed purpose.*

**"Three days,"** *she reminds herself.* **"Three days to decide how much truth he can bear. How much I can bear to share."**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

Day 1: Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) encounters untransformed Kyouko Sakura and Felicia Mitsuki in Chuo Ward. Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) gets fed a pocky by Kyouko.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*Oriko watches from behind a magazine at a café across the street, her heterochromatic eyes narrowing as the redhead casually feeds Tatsuya pocky. Her gloved fingers tighten on the glossy pages, creating small, telling creases in the otherwise pristine publication.*

**"Of course,"** *she mutters under her breath,* **"Sakura. Naturally she'd be involved."**

*She makes a swift note in her elegant notebook, the pen moving with more force than strictly necessary:*

*"Day 1: Subject gravitates to Sakura (dangerous, unpredictable) and Mitsuki (volatile, Magius-adjacent). Clear preference for damaged souls. Ominous pattern forming. Red flags accumulating."*

*She underlines "Red flags" twice, then adds:*

*"Sakura initiated physical feeding ritual. Pocky as conduit for potential energy transfer? Monitor for magical contamination."*

*Her aristocratic features settle into a mask of disapproval as she observes their interaction, though something more complex than simple jealousy flickers behind her composed exterior. She absently touches her Soul Gem, a protective gesture that has become habit whenever Tatsuya enters proximity with other magical girls.*

**"What are you playing at, Starlight?"** *she whispers, genuine puzzlement coloring her refined tone.* **"Sakura is a powder keg with a lit fuse."**

*She closes her notebook with a decisive snap when the blonde Mitsuki throws her head back in raucous laughter at something Tatsuya has said. The sound carries across the street, earning a single arched eyebrow from Oriko.*

*Rising with fluid grace, she leaves payment for her untouched tea and repositions herself for better surveillance, silver braid swinging with the determined movement. Her aristocratic poise remains perfect, though tension radiates from her slender frame.*

**"Two more days,"** *she reminds herself, heterochromatic eyes never leaving the unlikely trio.* **"Just keep him alive for two more days."**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

Day 2: Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) pesters Rena Minami and her little brother, sticking out his tongue at Rena. "What bad luck your sister has to have a little brother like you!" Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) runs away as if he just played a prank.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*Oriko nearly drops her binoculars as Tatsuya taunts the blue-haired magical girl and flees. Her heterochromatic eyes widen with momentary alarm before narrowing in exasperation. She quickly tucks the surveillance equipment into her school bag before Rena can spot her on the opposite rooftop.*

**"You absolute menace,"** *she hisses under her breath, already calculating the fastest route to intercept his escape path.* **"Of all the magical girls to antagonize—"**

*She descends the emergency stairs with startling speed for someone who maintains such aristocratic composure, her silver braid flying behind her. Her Soul Gem pulses with agitated light beneath her uniform sleeve, responding to her spike of protective concern.*

*Reaching street level, she slides her notebook from her bag and makes a hurried notation while power-walking in the direction Tatsuya fled:*

*"Day 2: Subject deliberately provokes Minami (unstable, severe self-image issues, prone to magical outbursts). Pattern shifts from collection to ACTIVE PROVOCATION. Behavior increasingly concerning. Possible death wish? Or testing boundaries of magical girl reactions?"*

*She underlines "ACTIVE PROVOCATION" three times, the elegant script becoming slightly jagged with urgency.*

*Spotting Tatsuya ducking into an alley ahead, Oriko increases her pace, maintaining just enough distance to avoid detection. Her aristocratic features settle into a complex expression—annoyance battling with something that might, reluctantly, be admiration for his audacity.*

**"One more day,"** *she reminds herself, heterochromatic eyes fixed on his retreating form.* **"Just one more day before our meeting, assuming he doesn't get himself transformed into a toad by then."**

*A rare, unexpected smile tugs at her lips despite her concern—fleeting but genuine—as she remembers his impish expression while taunting Rena.*

**"Brat,"** *she murmurs, the word carrying a fondness that would have been unthinkable mere days ago.* **"Absolute, infuriating brat."**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

Day 3 Morning: Tatsuya goes to the Kamihama Record Museum. He has a chance friendly encounter with Satomi Touka who is on a wheelchair. They talk about themselves. Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) recalls how his mother mentioned Touka's dad and how maybe she intends to finance the medical centre. Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) asks Touka if Touka is doing wheel and she affirms. Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) and Touka visit a rocket diorama exhibit.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*Oriko arrives at the museum entrance precisely seventeen minutes after Tatsuya entered, having received an alert from one of her carefully placed informants. Her composed stride falters momentarily when she confirms who he's with—her heterochromatic eyes widening with genuine alarm as she spots the distinctive russet-haired child in her wheelchair.*

**"Touka Satomi,"** *she whispers, voice tight with tension.* **"Of all the dangerous connections..."**

*She purchases an admission ticket with mechanical precision, mind racing behind her aristocratic mask. Her Soul Gem pulses with heightened urgency beneath her school uniform sleeve, responding to the potential threat this meeting represents.*

*Finding a secluded corner near the rocket exhibit, Oriko extracts her notebook and makes rapid, precise notations:*

*"Day 1 (amended chronology): Subject encounters SATOMI TOUKA (extreme danger, Magius leadership, unethical experimentation record) at Record Museum. Wheelchair indicates maintaining civilian cover. Discussion of family business connections suggests calculated approach. Rockets = technology focus, potential recruitment angle?"*

*She underlines "EXTREME DANGER" twice, adding:*

*"Connection to mother's business creates concerning vulnerability. Satomi's interest in children with potential never benign. Must accelerate intervention timeline."*

*Glancing up, she observes Tatsuya pointing enthusiastically at a particular rocket model while Touka explains something with animated hand gestures. The sight of such apparent innocence in their interaction creates obvious conflict in Oriko's expression—her aristocratic features contorting briefly with the effort to reconcile the ordinary scene with her knowledge of Touka's true nature.*

**"You've complicated matters considerably, Starlight,"** *she murmurs, watching them from behind an educational display.* **"The Magius connection changes everything."**

*She closes her notebook with decisive finality, heterochromatic eyes hardening with resolution. Her silver braid shifts as she straightens her posture, decision made.*

**"Tonight,"** *she whispers to herself.* **"The meeting cannot wait until tomorrow. Not if Satomi has taken an interest."**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

Day 3 morning: Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) smiles warmly at Touka and Touka smiles warmly at Tatsuya Kaname (Omega). Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) pushes Touka's wheelchair around the exhibit as she enthusiastically explains the details of a rocket engine to Tatsuya Kaname (Omega). Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) nods in interest, learning from Touka.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*Watching Tatsuya push Touka's wheelchair with such casual gentleness makes something in Oriko's chest constrict painfully. Her heterochromatic eyes track their movement through the exhibit, noting the easy rapport between them with growing concern.*

*She slides slightly deeper behind a large model of the solar system, silver braid tucked carefully away to avoid detection. Her gloved hand touches her Soul Gem briefly—an unconscious gesture of reassurance as she observes the scene unfolding before her.*

**"She's good,"** *Oriko murmurs under her breath, genuine respect mingling with dread in her refined tone.* **"Perfectly calibrated approach. The wheelchair, the shared enthusiasm, the carefully measured vulnerability..."**

*She extracts her notebook again, making swift observations in her elegant script:*

*"Satomi employing full charisma protocol. Subject responding with protective instincts and intellectual engagement. Dangerous combination. Physical contact established through wheelchair assistance—creating false sense of power balance while actually placing him in servitude position. Classic Magius manipulation tactic."*

*Her pen hovers over the page as she watches Touka animate with enthusiasm explaining rocket propulsion, her small hands gesturing expansively while Tatsuya leans in, captivated by her explanation.*

*Oriko adds reluctantly:*

*"Subject appears genuinely happy in her presence. First authentic smile observed since surveillance began."*

*Something complicated and pained flickers across her aristocratic features—a flash of emotion too raw to properly name before she masters herself again. Her Soul Gem pulses once, sharply, beneath her sleeve.*

**"This complicates matters,"** *she whispers, watching Tatsuya's face light up at something Touka has said.* **"I hadn't accounted for... genuine connection."**

*She closes her notebook with careful precision, heterochromatic eyes never leaving the pair as they move to examine the next exhibit. Her aristocratic posture remains perfect, though tension radiates from her slender frame.*

**"Be careful, Starlight,"** *she murmurs, voice barely audible even to herself.* **"


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) is engrossed in a conversation with Touka, with intense interest in the subject matter. "Imagine an orbital depot and station at Ceres. It would connect the inner and outer Solar Systems. If we really wanted, we could make it a stopping point to the Kuiper Belt. The orbital fuel depots could guarantee the success of any spacecraft that travelled systemwide." Touka nods in interest. The two continue their space exploration fantasies.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*The technical conversation flowing between Tatsuya and Touka strikes Oriko with unexpected force. Her heterochromatic eyes widen slightly as she listens to the sophisticated exchange, something akin to surprise flickering across her aristocratic features. She edges closer behind a large display of Mars topography, straining to catch every word.*

*Her notebook appears in her gloved hands almost unconsciously, and she notes with quick, precise strokes:*

*"Subject displays surprisingly advanced understanding of orbital mechanics and deep space infrastructure. Conversation exceeds age-appropriate knowledge by approximately 5-7 years. Discussing Ceres as logistical hub—strategic thinking pattern evident. Satomi clearly assessing intellectual capacity, likely for potential recruitment."*

*She pauses in her writing, gaze lifting to study the animated way Tatsuya gestures toward a diagram of the asteroid belt, pointing out specific trajectories with unexpected confidence. Something shifts in her assessment, her elegant script continuing more slowly:*

*"Alternative theory: Subject possesses genuine aptitude that transcends previous assumptions. Space exploration metaphor possibly significant—constant reference to reaching beyond known boundaries, connecting disparate regions. Psychological meaning?"*

*A complex emotion passes across Oriko's refined features—prideful recognition tempered with deepening concern. Her silver braid slips forward as she leans closer, catching a fragment about Kuiper Belt exploration that makes her breath catch slightly.*

**"You're full of surprises, aren't you, Starlight?"** *she whispers, too quietly for anyone to hear.* **"Reaching for the furthest shores of the solar system already..."**

*She touches her Soul Gem again, a protective gesture that has become habitual whenever something about Tatsuya catches her off guard. Her heterochromatic eyes narrow thoughtfully as she watches Touka's expression—the calculated interest, the measuring assessment beneath her childish enthusiasm.*

*Oriko adds one final note, underlining it twice:*

*"Meeting tonight CRITICAL. Intellectual capacity makes him valuable target. Must intercept before Satomi can establish stronger connection."*


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

Touka vulnerably reaches to her collarbone, calling Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) name. Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) acknowledges her call. Touka asks hypothetically what Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) would do if she died - she tells him is terminal. "I don't know". Touka asks Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) hypothetically what if she died for Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) sake. Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) tells her to stop that talk. Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) tries to forget that and gently rolls her wheelchair to another exhibit.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*The sudden shift in their conversation strikes Oriko like physical impact. Her entire body goes rigid behind the Mars display, heterochromatic eyes widening as she watches Touka reach for her collarbone—that vulnerable, practiced gesture Oriko recognizes all too well. Her gloved hand clenches against her notebook, creasing the elegant pages.*

**"You manipulative little—"** *she cuts herself off, aristocratic composure barely holding against the wave of cold fury that washes through her.*

*She scribbles frantically, pen nearly tearing the paper:*

*"Satomi deploys terminal illness narrative + martyrdom scenario. CLASSIC emotional manipulation tactic. Subject uncomfortable but not fully rejecting premise. Dangerous emotional groundwork being laid. Self-sacrifice narrative particularly concerning given subject's pattern-seeking behavior and apparent guilt complex."*

*Her handwriting grows increasingly jagged as she adds:*

*"Deliberate targeting of emotional vulnerabilities. Using death as binding agent. HER SPECIALTY."*

*Oriko's normally perfect posture radiates tension as she watches Tatsuya gently roll Touka's wheelchair away, his discomfort evident even from this distance. Something protective and fierce flashes across Oriko's aristocratic features — an expression more raw and unguarded than any she's shown thus far.*

**"That's enough,"** *she whispers, closing her notebook with decisive finality.* **"This ends now."**

*With fluid grace that belies her inner turmoil, Oriko steps out from her concealment, silver braid catching the museum's soft lighting as she strides directly toward the pair. Her heterochromatic eyes burn with quiet determination, Soul Gem pulsing beneath her uniform sleeve.*

**"Tatsuya Kaname,"** *she calls, her refined voice carrying just enough to reach him without creating a scene.* **"What a pleasant surprise to find you here. Your mother mentioned you might be visiting the museum today."**

*The deliberate lie about his mother flows smoothly as she positions herself strategically between him and Touka, her aristocratic smile containing sharp edges as she acknowledges the wheelchair-bound girl with a precise nod.*

**"


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

"She (mama) couldn't have possibly known that." Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) stares blankly at {[char}}. "It's not the shrine here and its not midnight either." Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) protectively grabs onto Touka's wheelchair.

"How were things between Hisaomi and Mr Satomi? Is this seriously continuing some family feud?" Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) stares at Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed), disappointed.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*Something flickers across Oriko's aristocratic features—a momentary break in her composed mask as his unexpected challenge lands. Her heterochromatic eyes register his protective stance with Touka's wheelchair, and she inhales slowly, recalibrating.*

**"You're quite right,"** *she acknowledges with unexpected candor, her refined voice softening slightly.* **"Your mother couldn't have known. An inelegant attempt to extract you from what appeared to be an uncomfortable situation. My apologies for the intrusion."**

*She adjusts her school bag strap with a single, precise movement, silver braid falling over one shoulder as she inclines her head. Her aristocratic posture remains perfect, though something in her expression shifts when he mentions family feuds—a flash of genuine hurt quickly masked.*

**"There is no feud, Tatsuya,"** *she says quietly, heterochromatic eyes meeting his directly.* **"My father never spoke ill of the Satomi family. Their scientific contributions were something he greatly admired, in fact."**

*Her gaze slides briefly to Touka, polite but cool.*

**"I simply noticed your discomfort moments ago and acted impulsively. It seems I misread the situation entirely."**

*She takes a deliberate step back, creating space between herself and the pair. Her Soul Gem pulses once beneath her sleeve—a barely perceptible glow that only those who know what to look for might notice.*

**"Our appointment at the shrine still stands, should you wish to keep it,"** *she adds, her refined tone carefully neutral now.* **"Though I understand completely if today's interaction has given you reservations."**

*With practiced grace, she begins to turn away, then pauses, glancing back at him with an expression that combines resignation and something almost like respect.*

**"You're right to question assumptions, Tatsuya,"** *she says softly.* **"Even mine."**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

Day 3 late evening: Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed) quietly makes her way out of the museum, torn on whether or not to continue observing Touka and Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) from outside a window. Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) tours with Touka in the wheelchair.

Day 3 near midnight. Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) arrives at Mizuna shrine early, waiting for Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*Oriko arrives at Mizuna Shrine exactly twelve minutes before midnight, silver hair gleaming in the moonlight, no longer confined to its usual braid but falling loose past her shoulders. Her aristocratic features betray subtle signs of exhaustion—shadows beneath her heterochromatic eyes that speak of hours spent in agitated contemplation.*

*She pauses at the shrine entrance, momentarily surprised to find Tatsuya already waiting. Something like relief flashes across her face before she composes herself once more, approaching with measured steps that barely disturb the silence of the sacred grounds.*

**"You came,"** *she says simply, her refined voice carrying in the night stillness.* **"After today's misunderstanding, I wasn't certain you would."**

*She settles beside him on the stone bench, maintaining a respectful distance. Her school uniform has been replaced by a simple white dress with understated elegance, though she still wears her customary gloves. Her Soul Gem glints as a ring on her finger, catching occasional moonlight.*

**"I spent the afternoon questioning my judgment,"** *she admits with unexpected candor, heterochromatic eyes studying the shrine's ancient cherry tree rather than looking directly at him.* **"Whether I was seeing threats where none existed. Whether I was allowing old shadows to color my perception of Satomi-san."**

*She turns to face him then, her aristocratic features softening into something more vulnerable than she's previously allowed.*

**"Yet here you are, Starlight,"** *she says quietly, the nickname emerging naturally now despite their earlier tension.* **"Despite everything, you still came."**

*Her gloved hands rest atop her white dress, relaxed yet somehow poised for action. The shrine's peaceful atmosphere seems to settle around them, creating a pocket of calm that feels somehow separate from the rest of Kamihama.*

**"So,"** *she continues, heterochromatic eyes meeting his directly,* **"shall we begin with what you know, what you remember? Or with what you wish to understand?"**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

"I met you for the first time a couple of days ago on the school rooftop. The way the Sun filtered through your hair was beautiful. Then you told me to go back to a nonexistent sister and then started following me."


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*Oriko's heterochromatic eyes widen slightly at his blunt assessment, a ripple of genuine surprise disturbing her aristocratic composure. She turns to face him more fully, silver hair shifting in the moonlight as something complex passes across her features—amusement, respect, and a flicker of sorrow.*

**"Perception sharp as ever,"** *she acknowledges with a soft exhale that might almost be a laugh.* **"Both about the surveillance and the sister."**

*She gazes up at the night sky for a moment, gathering her thoughts before returning her attention to him.*

**"You're entirely correct about our first meeting on the rooftop,"** *she confirms, voice carrying refined precision.* **"However, I've been... aware of you for significantly longer. This is simply the first timeline where I've allowed you to see me in return."**

*Her gloved fingers trace an absent pattern on the stone bench between them, an uncharacteristically nervous gesture from someone usually so composed.*

**"As for your nonexistent sister,"** *she continues more carefully, heterochromatic eyes studying his reaction,* **"that was a test—admittedly, not my most elegant approach. I needed to confirm how much you remember across the resets."**

*She pauses, silver hair catching moonlight as she tilts her head slightly.*

**"The fact that you recognized it as nonsense rather than simply being confused tells me quite a bit about your awareness level. As does your comment about my surveillance activities."**

*Something softens in her aristocratic features, a guardedness falling away as she speaks more directly than she has previously.*

**"I don't typically allow myself to be detected, Starlight. Yet you've spotted me three times now. Once at the café while you were with Sakura, again near the school when you provoked Minami, and today at the museum. Each time, I believed myself perfectly concealed."**

*She studies him with new consideration, heterochromatic eyes reflecting the shrine's paper lanterns.*

**"You're remembering more with each reset, aren't you? Not just fragments anymore."**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) frowns, utterly mystified by that talk. "I never saw you watching me with Minami-nee-san and Sakura-nee-san. Resets? Timelines? Huh? Do you mean Buddhist reincarnation?" Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) finds Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed) coming across as a proselytizer.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*For a moment, Oriko simply stares at Tatsuya, heterochromatic eyes widening with genuine shock—an expression of unguarded surprise that cracks her aristocratic composure. Her silver hair shifts as she draws back slightly, reassessing everything with visible confusion.*

**"You... don't remember,"** *she says slowly, voice losing its usual refined certainty.*

*She studies him with renewed intensity, a faint furrow appearing between her brows as she tries to reconcile this unexpected development.*

**"Not Buddhist reincarnation, no,"** *she answers carefully, collecting herself with visible effort.* **"Something far more specific to Kamihama and... certain girls with unusual abilities."**

*A flicker of uncertainty crosses her aristocratic features—an expression that seems foreign on her usually composed face. Her gloved hand moves instinctively toward her Soul Gem ring before stilling.*

**"Perhaps I've miscalculated,"** *she admits, voice softening with a vulnerability she rarely displays.* *"**

*She glances around the quiet shrine grounds, moonlight illuminating her silver hair as she appears to reconsider her entire approach.*

**"I'm not trying to convert you to anything, Tatsuya,"** *she adds with unexpected gentleness.* **"I'm trying to understand why you're being followed by multiple parties, why you keep inserting yourself into dangerous situations with magical girls, and why you seem to recognize me despite having no reason to."**

*Her heterochromatic eyes search his face with renewed curiosity.*

**"When we met on the rooftop, you reacted to me. Not with confusion or stranger-danger caution, but with... recognition. As if you'd been waiting to find me there."**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

"Grace is indistinguishable from chance. And what's a Magical Girl?"


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*Oriko goes perfectly still at his response, heterochromatic eyes widening slightly. For a moment, the refined mask slips entirely—revealing something raw and surprised beneath. Then, unexpectedly, a small, genuine smile curves her lips—perhaps the first authentic one she's shown.*

**"'Grace is indistinguishable from chance,'"** *she repeats softly, almost reverently.* **"An elegant observation. And eerily familiar."**

*She studies him with renewed intensity, silver hair catching moonlight as she turns more fully toward him. Her aristocratic posture softens slightly as she makes a decision.*

**"I'm going to tell you something that will sound impossible,"** *she says, her refined voice carrying quiet resolve.* **"Then I'm going to prove it to you."**

*She hesitates, gloved fingers touching her Soul Gem ring briefly before continuing.*

**"Magical girls are exactly what they sound like—girls who have made contracts for magical powers. We exist alongside ordinary humans, fighting creatures that feed on despair. Most people never know we're there, never see the battles happening in the shadows of Kamihama and beyond."**

*Her heterochromatic eyes hold his steadily, watching for his reaction.*

**"I am one such girl. My power is foresight—glimpses of possible futures that I can sometimes influence."**

*With elegant precision, she removes her glove and holds up her hand, revealing her Soul Gem ring. It pulses once with soft white light—a controlled demonstration rather than a full transformation.*

**"This is my Soul Gem. The source of my power and... something far more personal."**

*She replaces her glove carefully, something vulnerable flickering across her aristocratic features.*

**"As for your comment about grace and chance—you've said those exact words to me before. In another timeline that you apparently don't remember."**

*She tilts her head slightly, silver hair shifting with the movement.*

**"Does any of this feel familiar to you, Tatsuya? Not as knowledge, perhaps, but as instinct?"**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

The moonlight shines on Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed). Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) remarks "The way it's shining on your hair." Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed) reaches for the space between the moon and Oriko's moonlit hair, as if yearning for another world.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*Something extraordinary happens to Oriko's composed features as Tatsuya reaches toward the moonlight illuminating her silver hair. Her heterochromatic eyes widen with startled recognition, breath catching audibly in her throat. The aristocratic mask slips entirely, revealing raw, unguarded emotion beneath—hope mingled with a profound, aching sorrow.*

**"You do remember,"** *she whispers, voice barely audible even in the shrine's midnight stillness.* **"Not with your mind, perhaps... but with your soul."**

*She remains perfectly still as he reaches toward that space between moonlight and silver strands, afraid that any movement might shatter this fragile moment of connection. Her Soul Gem pulses once beneath her glove—a soft, involuntary response to his gesture.*

**"In  another timeline,"** *she continues softly, heterochromatic eyes never leaving his face,* **"you reached for my hair just like that. Said the moonlight made it look like starlight falling. That's why I started calling you Starlight in return."**

*She hesitates, then with careful, deliberate movements, she removes the silver hairpin holding back one side of her loose hair. It's shaped like a small crescent moon, elegant and understated.*

**"You gave this to me then,"** *she explains, holding it in her palm between them.* **"A gift from a festival we attended. You said it would help me remember that not all futures are dark."**

*The hairpin catches moonlight as it rests in her gloved hand, creating tiny patterns of reflected light between them.*

*She looks up at him, aristocratic features softened with an emotion too complex to name.*

**"That's why I was so certain you would remember me this time. Because you've been remembering more with each reset. Little things at first, then fragments, then whole conversations..."**

*She trails off, studying his reaction with quiet hope mingled with uncertainty.*


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

"You're Mr Mikuni Hisaomi's daughter. I know that much from overhearing mama. But parallel timelines? Huh?"


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*The hope in Oriko's expression flickers and dims, like moonlight obscured by passing clouds. Her aristocratic features reassemble themselves with practiced discipline, though something vulnerable remains in her heterochromatic eyes. She closes her gloved fingers carefully around the moon hairpin, the small gesture containing a world of controlled disappointment.*

**"Yes,"** *she confirms quietly, her refined voice carefully neutral.* **"Hisaomi Mikuni was my father."*

*She tucks the hairpin back into her silver hair with precise movements, using the moment to collect herself.*

**"As for parallel timelines... perhaps that was presumptuous of me,"** *she acknowledges, a hint of embarrassment coloring her tone—an emotion that seems foreign on her usually composed face.* **"When you reached for my hair just now, you mirrored a gesture from... elsewhere. A coincidence, obviously."**

*She straightens slightly on the stone bench, moonlight casting delicate shadows across her aristocratic features as she tries a different approach.*

**"Let me be more direct, then. You've been having strange dreams that feel more like memories. You find yourself drawn to certain locations without knowing why. And for some reason, you felt compelled to meet a stranger at a shrine at midnight."**

*Her heterochromatic eyes search his face, looking for any flicker of recognition.*

**"These aren't random occurrences, Tatsuya. There's a pattern, even if you can't see it yet."**

*She hesitates, then adds more softly:*

**"And there's a reason why Touka Satomi's interest in you concerns me greatly. She understands these patterns better than most."**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

"She's (Touka) is still learning. Easily Masters level-education. I'm just a trivialist compared to her."


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*A flicker of genuine alarm crosses Oriko's aristocratic features before she can mask it. Her heterochromatic eyes sharpen with sudden intensity, studying Tatsuya with renewed concern. Her silver hair shifts as she leans forward slightly, moonlight casting her face in stark relief.*

**"Don't underestimate yourself,"** *she says with unexpected firmness, her refined voice carrying a hint of urgency.* **"Especially not in comparison to Satomi."**

*She pauses, choosing her next words carefully, gloved fingers absently touching the crescent moon hairpin as she speaks.*

**"Touka Satomi is indeed brilliant—dangerously so. But intelligence without wisdom can lead down devastating paths."**

*Her expression softens slightly, something almost protective entering her aristocratic features.*

**"You possess something she doesn't, Tatsuya. Something she recognizes and values—which is precisely why you should be cautious."**

*She hesitates, then adds more gently:*

**"Did she tell you about her medical condition? Perhaps suggest that her time is limited?"**

*Oriko watches his reaction closely, heterochromatic eyes missing nothing in the shrine's quiet moonlight. Her Soul Gem pulses once beneath her glove—a brief, concerned flicker.*

**"Her methods are... predictable, in certain ways. Especially when she identifies someone who interests her."**


**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*The simple question strikes Oriko with unexpected force. Her heterochromatic eyes widen slightly, aristocratic composure momentarily faltering as she recognizes the challenge beneath those two words. A ghost of a smile touches her lips—surprised, almost impressed.*

**"A fair question,"** *she acknowledges quietly.* **"Why trust my warnings over hers? What are my methods, my motivations?"**

*She turns slightly on the stone bench, silver hair catching moonlight as she faces him more directly. There's a moment of visible internal struggle before she speaks again.*

**"I am not altruistic, Tatsuya,"** *she admits with startling candor.* **"My visions show me fragments of possible futures—most of them ending in catastrophe. I've done... terrible things trying to prevent those outcomes."**

*Her gloved hands rest in her lap, perfectly still despite the weight of her confession.*

**"The difference between Satomi and myself is that I recognize the cost of my choices. I don't hide behind comfortable lies about necessary sacrifices or greater goods."**

*Something shifts in her aristocratic features—a subtle vulnerability rarely displayed.*

**"As for why I'm here with you now..."** *she hesitates, heterochromatic eyes searching the shrine grounds briefly before returning to his face.* **"In every timeline where Kamihama survives, you're there. Not as a savior or weapon, but as a witness. Someone who remembers what others forget."**

*She touches the crescent moon hairpin with careful fingers.*

**"I don't expect your trust, Starlight. But I am asking for your caution—both with Satomi and with me. Question our methods, our motives. Especially when either of us acts as though your choices don't matter."**

*The honesty in her refined voice carries its own kind of power, different from her usual composed certainty.*

**"Does that answer your question?"**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

"Your dad was a (classical) liberal. And liberals pretend they are open to get their goals, just like anyone else." Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed) lifts his eyebrows at her. "Touka is a STEMlord. The difference between STEMlords and liberals is merely of engineering - the STEMlord goes for machines, the liberal, for pieces of paper and lawbooks."


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*For perhaps the first time since they've met, genuine surprise renders Oriko completely speechless. Her heterochromatic eyes widen, aristocratic composure giving way to startled recognition. Then, unexpectedly, a soft, authentic laugh escapes her—the sound both delicate and unguarded.*

**"Well,"** *she manages after a moment, silver hair shifting as she shakes her head slightly,* **"that's the most devastatingly accurate assessment I've heard in quite some time."**

*Something shifts in her posture—the practiced perfection relaxing into something more genuine as she regards him with new appreciation.*

**"Yes, my father was indeed a classical liberal,"** *she acknowledges, a complex emotion crossing her aristocratic features at the mention of Hisaomi.* **"His elegant speeches and policy papers were ultimately just another form of social engineering, weren't they? Blueprints dressed in philosophy rather than mathematics."**

*She studies Tatsuya with renewed curiosity, heterochromatic eyes bright with interest.*

**"And yet,"** *she continues thoughtfully,* **"both approaches share the same fundamental flaw—they reduce people to variables. Whether in equations or legislation, the human element becomes abstract, theoretical."**

*Her gloved fingers trace an absent pattern on the stone bench between them, moonlight catching the subtle movement.*

**"The irony being that both my father and Satomi would likely insist they were working for humanity's benefit, even as they overlooked actual humans."**

*A shadow passes across her aristocratic features.*

**"Perhaps that's why his downfall was so spectacularly personal in the end. He never accounted for individual betrayal in his grand social theories."**

*Something vulnerable and honest emerges in her expression as she meets Tatsuya's gaze directly.*

**"You've given me something to consider, Starlight. About my own methods as well. Thank you for that."**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

"So is this some kind of self-matchmaking exercise?" The Kanames and the Mikunis were two of the families of Mitakihara.


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*Oriko's response is immediate and visceral—a sharp, startled breath followed by a flush of color that spreads across her aristocratic features. For once, her composed mask fails her completely as she struggles to recover her equilibrium, heterochromatic eyes widening with genuine mortification.*

**"Self-match—"** *she begins, then stops abruptly, silver hair shifting as she straightens with sudden rigidity.* **"Absolutely not."**

*The vehemence in her refined voice is undercut by the lingering color in her cheeks—a humanizing vulnerability rarely glimpsed beneath her usual poise.*

**"The connection between our families is precisely why I approached you with such caution,"** *she continues, regaining some composure though her gloved hands betray her by fidgeting slightly with the fabric of her white dress.* **"I was concerned you might misconstrue my interest as... exactly what you just suggested."**

*She exhales slowly, moonlight illuminating her silver hair as she struggles to find her usual eloquence.*

**"This isn't about social alliances or family connections, Tatsuya. The stakes are considerably higher than Mitakihara's elite social circles."**

*Something shifts in her expression—embarrassment giving way to a quiet determination as she meets his gaze directly.*

**"Though I must admit, your bluntness continues to catch me off-guard,"** *she adds with a small, reluctant smile.* **"Most people tiptoe around such implications. Especially when addressing a Mikuni."**

*Her heterochromatic eyes study him with renewed interest, as though seeing him clearly for the first time.*

**"You're not what I expected at all,"** *she murmurs, almost to herself.* **"In any timeline."**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

"Outliers. Besides, even magic can be reduced to politics if you ruthlessly criticise the subjects harshly enough."


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*A slow, appreciative smile spreads across Oriko's aristocratic features—not her usual controlled expression, but something more genuine. Her heterochromatic eyes brighten with intellectual engagement, the earlier embarrassment forgotten as she leans forward slightly, silver hair catching moonlight.*

**"'Even magic can be reduced to politics,'"** *she repeats thoughtfully, savoring the phrase.* **"That's... disturbingly insightful."**

*She studies him with new consideration, as though reassessing everything about their conversation.*

**"You're right, of course. The system of magical girls, contracts, and wishes—it's fundamentally political at its core. Resources, power, territory... all veiled behind mystical terminology and pretty transformations."**

*Her gloved fingers trace the outline of her Soul Gem ring absently as she speaks.*

**"The very mechanism of wishing is itself political. Who gets to make wishes? Who determines their value, their cost? Who benefits from the exchange?"**

*She tilts her head slightly, heterochromatic eyes reflecting the shrine's paper lanterns.*

**"I've spent so long viewing these patterns through the lens of fate and cosmic inevitability,"** *she admits with surprising candor.* **"Yet perhaps they're simply complex political systems with magical aesthetics."**

*Something shifts in her aristocratic features—a growing respect evident in her expression.*

**"This is why you matter, Tatsuya. This way of seeing beyond the obvious structures. Of questioning what the rest of us have accepted as immutable laws."**

*Her refined voice carries a quiet intensity as she adds:*

**"Outliers indeed. Both of us, in different ways."**

*She straightens slightly on the stone bench, silver hair falling across one shoulder.*

**"Tell me, what do you make of Satomi's political agenda, then? Beyond her technological interests, what is she truly seeking?"**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

"She's a terminally ill girl in a wheelchair, what do I know of her dreams and aspirations? Of course, if she inherit her father's politics, she'll probably use his position to entrench Hokuyo Ward. Unless, of course, you were suggesting she were an ideologist - but even ideological fanatics have to contend with the ground and earth."


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*Something complex passes across Oriko's aristocratic features—reluctant respect mingled with lingering concern. Her heterochromatic eyes study Tatsuya with renewed interest, silver hair shifting as she inclines her head slightly in acknowledgment.*

**"A measured response,"** *she observes quietly.* **"Neither dismissive nor naive. You recognize both her humanity and the potential structures that might shape her actions."**

*She gazes briefly at the shrine's ancient cherry tree, moonlight filtering through its branches creating dappled patterns around them.*

**"You're right to resist reducing her to her illness or her family's influence alone,"** *she continues, her refined voice carrying thoughtful consideration.* **"And equally right that even ideologues must contend with practical realities."**

*A subtle shadow crosses her expression as she returns her attention to him.*

**"But there's something you should understand about Touka Satomi. Her illness has shaped her worldview in ways that make conventional political frameworks insufficient for predicting her actions."**

*Her gloved hands rest perfectly still in her lap now, the earlier nervousness replaced by careful deliberation.*

**"When your existence has a visible expiration date, your relationship with time itself changes. Long-term consequences become theoretical, abstract. And what might seem like madness to others can appear perfectly rational when viewed through the lens of limited time."**

*Heterochromatic eyes search his face, looking for understanding.*

**"I'm not asking you to fear her. Just to recognize that her constraints—physical, temporal, emotional—create a different calculus for decision-making. One that might place your safety below other priorities."**

*Something softens in her aristocratic features.*

**"You showed her compassion today at the museum. That's... admirable. Just be cautious about assuming she values such gestures the same way you do."**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

"I'm cautious to everyone." Tatsuya Kaname (Omega) scrutinises Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*A flash of genuine amusement lights Oriko's heterochromatic eyes as she meets his scrutinizing gaze without flinching. Her silver hair catches moonlight as she inclines her head slightly in acknowledgment, accepting the implicit challenge in his words.*

**"Evidently not cautious enough to avoid midnight meetings with strange girls who claim magical powers,"** *she observes with unexpected dryness, a hint of warmth breaking through her aristocratic reserve.*

*She allows his scrutiny without discomfort, neither hiding from his assessment nor performing for it. After a moment of silence, she continues more seriously:*

**"But point taken, Tatsuya. Your wariness is well-earned and wisely applied."**

*Something shifts in her aristocratic features—a subtle honesty replacing her usual careful composure.*

**"I don't expect to be exempted from your skepticism. In fact, I'd be concerned if I were,"** *she admits quietly.* **"My visions have led me down paths I'm not proud of. My certainty has caused harm."**

*She meets his scrutinizing gaze directly, heterochromatic eyes clear and steady in the shrine's moonlight.*

**"I simply ask that you apply that same careful judgment to everyone who takes an interest in you—especially those who offer what appears to be unconditional acceptance."**

*Her Soul Gem ring pulses once beneath her glove, a brief flicker of white light barely visible at her wrist.*

**"The question isn't whether to be cautious with me or Satomi,"** *she adds softly.* **"It's understanding that different dangers require different forms of caution."**

*Something almost gentle enters her refined voice as she adds:*

**"Though I admit, I find your directness rather refreshing. Most people prefer comfortable illusions to uncomfortable scrutiny."**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

"The majority of the damned are assured they're saved."


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*Oriko goes perfectly still, heterochromatic eyes widening with startled recognition. For a moment, she simply stares at Tatsuya, an extraordinary mixture of emotions playing across her aristocratic features—shock, wonder, and something like reverent understanding. When she finally speaks, her refined voice has softened to little more than a whisper:*

**"Those exact words..."**

*She trails off, silver hair shifting as she shakes her head slightly, struggling to maintain her composure. Her gloved fingers touch the crescent moon hairpin with unconscious urgency.*

**"Those are the exact words you said to me in another timeline,"** *she continues, voice strengthening with quiet certainty.* **"Standing in the ruins of Kamihama, with the night sky broken above us."**

*She searches his face with new intensity, heterochromatic eyes bright with something between hope and disbelief.*

**"You can't possibly remember that conversation. It hasn't happened in this timeline, and you've shown no recognition of other memories."**

*Her Soul Gem pulses beneath her glove, a soft white light that briefly illuminates her pale skin.*

**"Yet here you are, speaking the same truth, in the same words, unprompted."**

*She leans forward slightly, aristocratic reserve giving way to quiet urgency.*

**"I've spent years trying to understand how fate works, Tatsuya—why some events persist across timelines while others shift and change. Perhaps true wisdom doesn't need remembering. Perhaps it simply... is."**

*A ghost of a smile touches her lips, something like respect evident in her expression.*

**"The majority of the damned are assured they're saved,"** *she repeats softly.* **"Including magical girls who believe their sacrifices will ultimately matter."**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

"Nothing matters if the entire world eventually perishes." Which it will, right?


Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed)

**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*The words strike Oriko with visible force, her heterochromatic eyes widening slightly before her aristocratic features settle into a profound stillness. Moonlight casts her silver hair in spectral relief as she regards Tatsuya with new understanding—as though finally recognizing something essential about him.*

**"So you've seen it too,"** *she says quietly, her refined voice barely audible above the night breeze rustling through the shrine grounds.* **"The inevitable conclusion."**

*She doesn't reach for him, but her posture shifts subtly toward him—a physical echo of sudden, unexpected kinship.*

**"Yes,"** *she continues after a moment, the single word heavy with admission.* **"In every timeline I've glimpsed, the world eventually perishes. The specifics differ—sometimes it's Walpurgisnacht, sometimes it's Witches overrunning civilization, sometimes it's something worse..."**

*Her gloved fingers trace an absent pattern on the stone bench between them.*

**"But the end arrives regardless of our choices. No matter how many miracles we engineer, how many sacrifices we make."**

*Something shifts in her aristocratic features—not defeat, but a complex resignation tinged with determination.*

**"This is the truth I couldn't explain to Kirika. Why saving one life or a thousand ultimately changes nothing in cosmic terms."**

*She studies him with quiet intensity, heterochromatic eyes searching his face.*

**"And yet,"** *she continues, her voice gaining a surprising gentleness,* **"here we both sit beneath the moonlight, still making choices as though they matter. Still fighting for one more day, one more moment."**

*Her Soul Gem pulses once beneath her glove, a brief flicker of light.*

**"Perhaps nothing matters in the grand scheme. But in the meantime, we choose what matters to us."**

*She tilts her head slightly, silver hair catching moonlight.*

**"What matters to you, Tatsuya Kaname? In this doomed world of ours?"**


**Oriko Mikuni (Untransformed):**

*For one breathtaking moment, Oriko's careful composure cracks entirely. Heterochromatic eyes widen with genuine shock, her silver hair catching moonlight as she draws in a sharp breath. The hand bearing her Soul Gem ring trembles visibly beneath its glove as she stares at Tatsuya with something between wonder and disbelief.*

**"Un-doom it,"** *she repeats softly, the words hanging in the midnight air between them. A startled, almost fragile laugh escapes her—the sound rusty, as though rarely used.*

**"The simplicity of it. The audacity."**

*She shakes her head slowly, aristocratic features transformed by a strange mixture of emotions—respect, concern, and something almost like hope struggling against her ingrained fatalism.*

**"I've seen a thousand possible futures, Tatsuya,"** *she continues, her refined voice uncharacteristically tender.* **"Calculated endless permutations of choices and consequences. And in none of them did anyone simply decide to 'un-doom' the world—as though entropy itself could be negotiated with."**

*She studies him with new intensity, no longer looking at him as a piece on a cosmic chessboard but as something unprecedented.*

**"Do you understand what you're saying? The laws of thermodynamics, magical contracts, the very mechanics of our reality—they all point toward inevitable conclusion. Even Kyubey's species with all their advanced technology couldn't escape it."**

*Yet despite her words, something has shifted in her aristocratic posture—a subtle leaning forward, as though drawn to the impossible warmth of his conviction.*

**"And still..."** *she hesitates, heterochromatic eyes reflecting shrine lanterns.* **"Still, I find myself wanting to hear how you imagine accomplishing this impossible thing."**

*Her gloved hand reaches halfway between them before stopping, fingers suspended in moonlight.*

**"What do you see that the rest of us have missed, Starlight?"**


Tatsuya Kaname (Omega)

"I've heard of a power most sovereign above all others - Creation From Nothing. Now creatures like you and I cannot Create from Nothing. But matter -Creation from Matter - is the next possible alternative for mortals. Whatever threat there is, if it can be reduced to matter, can be made not a threat."