The journal’s last words still echoed in Aiko’s mind as they made their way through the ruins of Ren’s childhood home. She felt like a stranger, walking through memories that weren’t hers to claim. But the journal was clear: if she was going to find peace, she needed to finish Ren’s unfinished story.

Sora’s steady presence at her side was the only thing anchoring her to reality. Every step she took felt heavier, as if she was walking through a fog of lies, trying to pull back the layers to see what was hidden beneath.

“What happens next?” Aiko asked quietly, holding the journal tightly.

Sora’s answer was simple: “We find Kurohana.”

The following night, they tracked down a lead that took them to a nondescript building on the outskirts of the city. It was a private club of sorts, a place where powerful people gathered behind closed doors — people whose names never appeared in the papers, but whose shadows stretched far and wide.

Aiko had never imagined she’d be standing outside a place like this, not in her wildest dreams. Her heart pounded in her chest as Sora led her through the alleyway, his face grim.

“I thought you said we’re looking for answers, not making enemies,” she whispered.

“Sometimes, you can’t avoid both.”

They passed through a narrow door, its hinges creaking under their weight. Inside, the air was thick with smoke and tension. The room was dimly lit, filled with people who looked like they’d sold pieces of their souls for a taste of power. But there, sitting at the far end of the room, was a man who looked different — not like the others. He was calm, too calm.

His eyes locked onto Aiko’s the moment she stepped into the room.

“You’ve come.” His voice was smooth, too smooth. He didn’t stand up, didn’t make any move to acknowledge Sora’s presence. Only Aiko.

“Who are you?” she asked, her voice defiant.

The man smiled, but it didn’t reach his eyes. “I’ve been waiting for you.”

Before Aiko could react, Sora stepped forward, a warning in his stance. “We’re not here to play games. We know who you are.”

The man’s smile only deepened. “Do you?” He chuckled softly. “Or do you think you know?”

Aiko’s heart raced. This man was no stranger to secrets. He was the face behind the mask, the one pulling the strings.

“What’s your connection to Kurohana?” Sora demanded.

The man leaned back, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the armrest of his chair. “Kurohana? Ah, you mean the ghost story.” He raised an eyebrow. “You really think that’s who you’re fighting? Kurohana is just a name. A myth. You’re much more important than you realize.”

Aiko frowned, confused. “What do you mean?”

He stood up slowly, his eyes still on her. “It’s not just about Ren, Aiko. It never was. You’re a part of something much bigger than a boy and his journal.” He took a step closer. “You’re connected to this story in ways you can’t even imagine.”

Sora stepped between them, his body tense. “Stop playing games with her. Tell us who you are, and why you’re hiding behind all these lies.”

The man chuckled, as if Sora was no more than an annoyance. “You really don’t know, do you?” He leaned in close to Aiko, his voice low. “It’s all connected to the ashes of this city — the things that were buried long before you or Ren ever came here.”

Before she could respond, a man from the shadows stepped forward, wearing a black mask. His voice was cold and direct: “It’s time, Kaito. They know too much.”

Kaito, the man before her, smiled one last time. “Very well. The game is over, Aiko. Let’s see if you’re ready to play the final round.”

They didn’t give Aiko time to react. The masked man grabbed her by the arm, pulling her toward the back of the room.

Sora moved quickly, blocking their way, but he was outnumbered. Aiko felt a chill run through her. Kaito had said it wasn’t just about Ren, but what did that mean?

Suddenly, the door to the back room swung open. “Enough.”

A tall woman stepped into the room, her presence commanding silence. Her long, dark hair cascaded over her shoulders like a wave, her face cold and unreadable.

“Aiko.” Her eyes softened, just for a moment. “I’ve been waiting for you.”

Aiko’s heart skipped a beat. She knew her. She knew this woman.

“Mother?” she whispered, her voice trembling.

To be continued in...

Chapter 6: The Face Behind the Mask

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