Oshi no Ko: The Maestro

Chapter 14: Confrontation and Allegiance

Akane was in the middle of rehearsing her role for the upcoming play, hoping to perfect her performance. As she delivered her lines with passion, she immersed herself in the character's emotions, temporarily forgetting the world around her.

Unbeknownst to her, a figure lurked in the shadows, observing her every move.
It was Sekito. They always had a bad relationship towards each other.

With a malicious glint in his eyes, he decided to seize this opportunity to confront her.

Stepping out of the darkness, Sekito approached Akane on the stage. His footsteps echoed throughout the empty theatre, but Akane remained unaware of his presence. She continued her monologue, completely absorbed in her performance.

As she reached the emotional climax of her scene, Sekito interrupted her, his voice dripping with disdain. "Well, well, well, look who's trying to act. You think you're so talented, don't you?"

As Akane delivered her final lines, her eyes widened in surprise as she spotted Sekito stepping out of the shadows. The sudden interruption disrupted her flow, but her commitment to the scene allowed her to quickly regain her composure.

Looking at Sekito with a mix of confusion and determination, Akane asked, "Sekito? What are you doing here? This is a closed rehearsal."

Sekito sneered at her, relishing the power he held over her in that moment. He knew their history was fraught with animosity, and he took pleasure in undermining her confidence whenever he could. But unbeknownst to him, Akane had grown stronger over time, thanks to the support and encouragement of Hiroshi.

In the past, whenever Sekito confronted her, Akane would falter, her self-assurance waning. But Hiroshi had been a constant source of guidance and inspiration, helping her build resilience and embrace her talents. Through his friendship, she had found the courage to face Sekito head-on and rise above his belittling comments.

Akane straightened her posture, a fire burning in her eyes as she faced Sekito. She refused to let his words unravel her hard work and determination.

"Sekito," she began, her voice steady but laced with a newfound strength. "I don't have time for your petty attempts to insult me. This rehearsal is important to me, and I won't let you distract me."

Sekito's expression shifted, his surprise evident on his face. He hadn't expected Akane to respond with such confidence. His voice now held a touch of curiosity as he asked, "Well, Akane, it seems you've grown a backbone. Tell me, who's responsible for this newfound boldness? Did Hiroshi turn a tamed kitten into a wild one?"

Akane's eyes narrowed, refusing to let him undermine her.
"Hiroshi has been a source of support and encouragement, but my growth is my own doing. "

As Akane stood her ground, her gaze locked with Sekito's, she could sense a shift in his demeanour. His sneer faded into a more contemplative expression, and his voice took on a touch of seriousness.

"You know, Akane," Sekito began his tone unusually measured, "I have to admit, Hiroshi is quite the remarkable person. He's always been there for you, hasn't he? I've seen the two of you together, sharing laughs, supporting each other. It's clear he holds a special place in your heart."

Akane's eyes narrowed further, suspicion creeping into her voice. "What do you know about Hiroshi? Our relationship is none of your business."

Sekito's expression remained unreadable, but his tone grew more intense as he stepped closer to Akane.
"I may have my reservations about you, but Hiroshi and I have a history too, you know. We share a bond that goes beyond your understanding. And it's precisely because of that bond that I'm here today."