The bright lights of Shibuya faded into the colors of fun as Riku and Yumi arrived at a nearby amusement park.
They didn't waste time. Cotton candy, roasted snacks, and bubble tea in hand — they laughed as they tried every ride.
From the spinning teacups to the 100-foot drop coaster, both of them were fearless. Every time the wind blew through their hair and the world spun, they laughed harder.
Yumi leaned on a railing, still catching her breath. "Okay… I haven't had this much fun in forever."
Riku smirked. "Not done yet."
"For real?"
"One more ride. You in?"
She nodded, curious.
He stepped forward, extended his hand. "Then… wanna ride my dragon?"
Her eyes widened. "Wait—what?!"
"I'm serious," he said, grinning.
She hesitated, then blushed, and slowly placed her hand in his.
"Let's go," he said.
They dashed away from the park, hearts racing from the adrenaline and the moment itself.
Outside the gates, Riku summoned his dragon — its massive body glistening under the moonlight, majestic and powerful. Its wings spread wide as it let out a soft, proud growl.
He climbed on first, then reached out, grabbing Yumi's hand to help her up.
Still blushing, she whispered, "I can't believe this is happening…"
"Hold tight," he warned. "I told him to go fast."
And fast it went.
The dragon took off like a comet. Yumi, surprised by the force, slipped slightly.
"Hold tight to me!" Riku yelled over the wind. "I need to make some adjustments!"
She quickly wrapped her arms around him, blushing harder than ever.
"I should've added a seatbelt," he joked.
They both laughed, and the tension faded into joy.
After stabilizing the saddle with a small Essence-based enhancement, Riku turned back. "Okay, you can let go now. Is that better?"
"Yeah," she said, her smile warm. "How'd you do that?"
"I added more grip and stability with a quick essence weave," he replied casually.
They flew across the cityscape, the lights below blending into a sea of gold and silver. When they landed, it was at a luxurious cinema.
Riku bought them both tickets, popcorn, drinks, and all the snacks Yumi liked.
After the movie, they took a quiet walk… to the beach.
Waves lapped at the shore as they sat in the cool sand.
Yumi leaned gently against his shoulder, still red in the cheeks.
"You good?" Riku asked, amused.
She nodded. "Mhm."
He chuckled.
Then she laughed.
They spent the next hour talking — about everything and nothing. About life, their dreams, her training, his childhood, the clan, and the stars.
Eventually, Yumi grew quiet… and fell asleep under the starlit sky, her head still on Riku's shoulder.
He smiled softly, then carefully picked her up.
Back at the village, he reached her home, gently nudging her awake.
Yumi stirred, eyes fluttering open. The first thing she saw… was Riku's hands holding her.
She sat up, flustered. "S-Sorry, I didn't mean to fall asleep."
He smiled. "It's fine."
She opened her door, paused… then turned around and gave him a hug.
"…Thank you, Riku," she whispered.
"Anytime," he replied, voice calm.
Then he walked away under the stars — her day complete, and his heart a little more full.