Paradoxical Truths

A day had passed since the perplexing events outside the venue. Stepping into the bustling streets of Akiba, I found my mind consumed by the memories of last night's encounter.

Yet amidst my contemplation, a realization struck me like lightning – I needed answers.

Answers about Komugitan, the mysterious entity, and why they were in Akiba.

The venue... I had to return... ChuruDreamers were scheduled to perform today.

With that thought, I quickly purchased my ticket online and hurried to Don Q, a popular storefront with an in-built venue frequented by chika idols.

As I entered, the familiar sight of otaku engrossed in conversation greeted me. Among them stood Sato-san, a fellow enthusiast in the battle we call idol culture!

"Hey, Takumi! It seems Komugitan is out sick today," Sato-san informed me casually.

I couldn't hide my surprise.

"Komugitan's absent due to illness? Seriously? Does this mean there will be a change in formation for today's performance?"

Sato-san looked puzzled.

"Yeah, she's been sick for three days. I'm surprised you didn't know... considering you're her TO and all."

Three days? Did that mean she hadn't attended the live yesterday while she was battling that entity?

Concern clouded Sato-san's expression.

 "Are you okay, man? You look pale, like you've been up all night browsing the net again."

Brushing off his concern, I replied,

 "Yeah, I'm fine... Let's just enjoy today's live."

We quietly awaited the start of the performance, and soon the curtains opened to reveal the remaining members, Nanase and Yumi, beginning their set.

---One Hour passes.

After the performance, as I made my way out of the venue, I caught a glimpse of a girl out of the corner of my eye.

"K...Komutan?"

The girl vanished before me.

"Error," her voice echoed in my mind.

"Error," repeated twice.

"Error," echoed thrice.

"Error successfully nullified."

Confusion gripped me as I looked down to find myself impaled by a long silver blade. Its design seemed otherworldly, resembling something out of anime or video games. Strangely, despite the severity of the injury, I remained conscious.

Suddenly, I collapsed, only to find myself cradled in the lap of a girl.

"Ko... Ko... Komugitan...?" I muttered weakly.

The girl's cold gaze met mine as she whispered something, her lips moving but the words inaudible to my ears.


"Delete."


That was all I could discern – the word "Delete."

Before I could react, darkness enveloped me, and I slipped into unconsciousness.