Prologue:
The grand hall of the Tristain Academy buzzed with an energy unseen since the Gallia conflict. A year had passed since the dust settled, a year of uneasy peace punctuated by Henrietta’s strained relationship with Albion and the ongoing political maneuvering. Yet, amidst the simmering tensions, a festive air prevailed. Queen Henrietta, ever keen to foster a sense of unity, had decreed a "Familiar Talent Show," a grand spectacle showcasing the unique abilities of the academy's familiars. The announcement had been met with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. For many students, this was a chance to display their bond with their familiars, a public testament to their training and connection. For others, it was a daunting prospect, a potential source of embarrassment or even ridicule.
Saito Hiraga, however, felt a different kind of pressure. A year in this world had been a whirlwind. He’d witnessed wars, forged alliances, and navigated the complexities of courtly life. He’d grown close to Louise, Tiffania, and the others, yet a chasm remained. The vibrant, public life of a pop star was a world away from their secluded aristocratic existence. His past life, his time with One Direction, his solo career, the collaborations with Martin Garrix and Jonas Blue – it all felt like a distant dream, a secret he guarded fiercely. The album "Red Velvet," poised for release just before his summoning, remained unreleased, a poignant reminder of a life left behind.
The news of the talent show initially brought a flicker of excitement. He could share a piece of his past, a glimpse into the world he’d left behind. But the thought of revealing his musical talent, his singing, in a world that only knew instrumental music, filled him with a strange mix of apprehension and exhilaration. He knew Louise and Tiffania would be thrilled, but the idea of performing before the entire court, before Henrietta herself, was daunting.
Louise, ever enthusiastic, had immediately approached Saito, her eyes shining with excitement. "Saito-kun, we should do a musical performance! Think of the surprise!" Tiffania, equally eager, chimed in, "Yes! It would be spectacular! We can work together to create something amazing!"
Saito, however, played his hand differently. He feigned reluctance, a smirk playing on his lips. "I'm not sure, girls. I'm not exactly a performer. Besides, I have other… commitments." His words were met with immediate protests. Louise, her temper flaring, argued vehemently, her familiar, familiarly, exploding in a small puff of fire. Tiffania, while more composed, was equally insistent. Their arguments escalated, a familiar dance of affection and frustration. Saito, however, remained unmoved, his secret plan unfolding in his mind. He knew their competitive spirits wouldn't let them give up easily. He relished the challenge, the opportunity to surprise them, to bridge the gap between their worlds.
The backstage area was a whirlwind of activity. Guiche, ever the flamboyant showman, was coordinating his familiar's performance with meticulous precision. Montmorency, ever practical, was ensuring the smooth running of the event. Even Tabitha, her identity as Charlotte de Gallia now an open secret, was diligently training her sylphid, a testament to her resilience and growth. The air crackled with anticipation, a mixture of nervous energy and excitement. Saito, observing the scene from a quiet corner, felt a surge of determination. He would not just participate; he would steal the show. His grin widened, a mischievous glint in his eyes. The familiar talent show was about to become something far more extraordinary than anyone could have imagined. He had a surprise for them all, a surprise that would bridge the gap between his past and his present, between his world and theirs. The performance was yet to come, but the tension, the anticipation, was palpable. The stage was set.
