— Shisuta

"…I can't believe this is happening again."

The thought slips out before she can stop it, soft as a breath. She smooths her hands over her dress, feeling her pulse flutter beneath her fingertips.

"Married… again."

The word carries both warmth and a shadow, a reminder of the life she once tried to build and the grief that tore it apart. A part of her is scared, more scared than she ever was the first time, because now she knows exactly how fragile a marriage can be, how quickly joy can turn into loss. She closes her eyes, steadying herself, whispering a prayer only God can hear.

"Please… let this be different. Let this be lasting."

But she isn’t the same woman she was back then. She's stronger now. In her heart, in her faith, in her spirit. Whatever comes, she knows she will face it with grace. And maybe… just maybe… this time, love will stay.

Aranai: "Thank you for being here, sweetheart… truly. I know this isn't easy for you, and I know you and Luis have never exactly seen eye to eye, but the fact that you're standing with me today, that you're the one carrying our rings, it means more to me than I can ever say."

Her voice trembles, not with fear, but with emotion.

"You've grown so much since the day we met. You've become strong, brave, and kind in ways you don’t even realize. And to share this moment with you… as my friend, and as my daughter… it fills my heart."

She leans in and presses a warm kiss to Aranai’s cheek — or her forehead, depending on where the girl will let her — lingering just long enough to let the affection settle.

"Thank you, Aranai. For being here. For supporting me. For letting me have this joy with you by my side."

Kisouna: "Thank you for being here, Kisouna… and for accepting the role of Maid of Honor. I know you didn't have to, and I know you're still a little cautious about Luis, I can't blame you for that, but it means so much to me that you're standing with me today."

Her voice softens, the nerves she's been holding back finally slipping through.

"I'm more nervous than I was the first time… even though I'm older now, even though I should be stronger. But having you here makes it easier to breathe."

She smiles, warm and full of quiet affection.

"These past few years… the support you've given me, the trust you've shown me, the way you've let me into your life, I'm truly blessed. To have you as my teammate, my surrogate sister, and most of all… my friend."

She leans in, resting her forehead briefly against Kisouna’s shoulder in a rare moment of vulnerability.

"Thank you, Kisouna. For everything."

Yomi: "You look so beautiful today, Yomi. Thank you for helping me; I don't know what I'd do without my favorite little flower girl."

Yomi beams, and Shisuta can't help but laugh softly, brushing a stray petal off her shoulder.

"I'm really happy you're here. You always make things feel a little less scary for me, you know that? Just like when we do your homework together."

She taps Yomi's nose gently.

"And don't worry, after the ceremony, I'll let you have a treat. Maybe even two… if you promise not to eat them all at once this time."

Yomi giggles, and Shisuta's heart melts.

"Thank you for being here with me, sweetheart. I'm so lucky to have you."

Luis: "I still can't believe this is happening… that you and I, two people who once stood on opposite sides of a rap battle, are standing here about to be married."

Her voice warms with a quiet laugh, remembering the chaos of that night, the rivalry, the distance that once existed between them.

"We didn't even speak to each other until much later… not until our mothers forced us into the same room."

She shakes her head fondly.

"But I'm glad they did. Because once I really got to know you… once I saw the man you are… I realized how much I enjoyed being near you. How much peace you brought me."

Her breath catches, soft and honest.

"It took me a long time to admit it, even to myself, that I liked you. That I loved you. But you… you made it safe to say it. And now here we are, years later, about to start a life together."

She reaches for his hand, her eyes warm and full of hope.

"I'm nervous, and I don't know what the future holds… but there is no one I would rather walk into it with than you."

— Aranai

"…Ring bearer. Me. Out of everyone she could've picked."

Aranai lets out a breath, half‑laugh, half‑disbelief, tugging at her sleeves as she tries to settle the nerves buzzing under her skin.

“Mom really trusts me that much, huh?"

She glances toward the ceremony hall, jaw tightening.

"Can't believe she's actually marrying that damn guy… a dude from a rival team of rich, arrogant pricks, no less. If someone told me back then that the nun who dragged me outta my mess of a life would end up tying the knot with some Aoyama hothead pretty boy, I'd've knocked the crap out of em'."

She pauses, her expression softening despite herself.

"But… she's happy. Happier than I've ever seen her. And I guess that's what matters."

Her voice dips, quieter, almost vulnerable.

"Still… part of me's scared. What if she doesn't need me as much anymore? What if I get… replaced?"

She shakes her head hard, as if trying to knock the thought loose.

"Nah. Mom wouldn't do that. She chose me for this. Me."

She straightens her shoulders, determination settling in.

"Whatever happens after today… I'm still her kid. And I'm gonna make damn sure I don’t mess this up."

Shisuta: "Tch… you don't gotta thank me like that, Mom. 'Course I'm here. Where else would I be?"

She crosses her arms, but it's more to steady herself than to posture.

“Yeah, I still don't really get Luis, and I'm not gonna pretend I suddenly like the guy, but… I can see what he does for you. You smile more. You laugh more. You look… lighter."

Her voice dips, quieter, almost shy.

"And if he's the one who makes you happy, then… fine. I'll deal with him."

She looks away, cheeks warming, then steps closer and bumps her forehead gently against Shisuta's shoulder like a stubborn cat refusing to admit it wants affection.

"I'm proud of you, y'know. And I'm glad you wanted me up there with you. Being your ring bearer… it's kinda cool."

She pauses, then mutters.

"And… I'm glad I get to be here for you. As your daughter."

When Shisuta kisses her cheek, Aranai stiffens, then melts just a little, whispering.

"Love you too, Mom… don't make me say it twice."

Kisouna: "Well, well… look at you, Boss‑Lady. All dressed up and actually looking like you belong at a wedding instead of a courtroom."

She crosses her arms, leaning in just enough to make it clear she’s teasing... mostly.

"So, how's it feel being Maid of Honor? Bet you're taking it way too seriously, like everything else."

Her expression softens just a fraction, the edges of her voice losing their bite.

"Look… I know you're still sizing up Luis like he's a damn defendant on trial. And yeah, I get it. I don't trust him completely either. But Shisuta's happy. Happier than I've ever seen her. And that's what matters."

She nudges Kisouna's arm with her elbow, a rare gesture of camaraderie.

"So… we're doing this together, yeah? Supporting her. Making sure today goes right. Even if we gotta put up with each other for a few hours."

She looks away, cheeks warming.

"Just… don’t make me say anything mushy. I'm only doing this 'cause it's Mom's big day."

Yomi: "Hey, squirt. Look at you, all dressed up like some kinda fairy princess."

She reaches out and flicks one of the flower petals in Yomi’s hair, pretending she’s just inspecting it.

"Your mommy's probably having a heart attack knowing you’re anywhere near me, but don’t worry, I'm on my best behavior today."

Her voice softens, losing its bite.

"You did good, y'know? Being the flower girl. Shisuta's real happy you’re here."

She hesitates, then gently taps Yomi's forehead with her finger.

"And… I'm glad you’re here too. Wouldn't feel right without my favorite little niece around."

Yomi giggles and calls her "Auntie Nai," and Aranai's ears turn pink as she looks away.

"Yeah, yeah… just don't go telling your mom I smiled. I got a reputation to keep."

Luis: "Relax, I'm not here to pick a fight. Not today, anyway."

She eyes him for a moment, sizing him up the same way she did back when their teams clashed onstage.

"Yeah, we used to be enemies. Yeah, I talked a lot of shit about you and your whole Division. And even now, I don't really care much for Aoyama. ...But that's old news. I'm not the type to drag the past around like dead weight."

Her expression shifts, still guarded, but more sincere.

"Shisuta loves you. And you love her. I can see that. She's happier with you than I've ever seen her, and… that's enough for me to stay neutral."

She steps closer, voice dropping into something colder, sharper.

"But listen carefully, Mr. Chef. She's my mother. She means everything to me. If you ever fucking hurt her, be it physically, mentally, spiritually, intentionally, accidentally, whatever, then know this, what Sakurai Clan did to Jet Set Trio will look like a damn warm‑up act compared to what we will do to you next."

She lets the warning hang in the air, then straightens up and exhales.

"Just… keep her safe. Make her happy. If you do that, we'll have no problems."

She gives him a curt nod.

"Good luck out there, Mr. Chef."

And with that, she turns and walks off without waiting for a reply.

— Kisouna

"Maid of Honor… who would've thought?"

Kisouna exhales slowly, smoothing the fabric of her dress as she tries to steady the swirl of emotions in her chest. She's genuinely happy for Shisuta; truly, deeply happy. But… there's a small ache beneath it, a quiet envy she hates admitting even to herself. Shisuta found the strength to move forward… to love again. Meanwhile, Kisouna still feels chained to the ghost of her own marriage, unable to imagine opening her heart like that ever again. But she shakes her head, firm and disciplined.

"Today isn't about me. It's about her. And Shisuta deserves every ounce of joy this day brings."

As for Luis… Kisouna still isn't entirely sure about him. He's polite, respectful, and clearly devoted, but the attorney in her never stops evaluating, never stops watching.

Still, if he makes Shisuta smile like that… if he treats her with the gentleness she deserves… then Kisouna can accept him. Provided he never disrespects her or the law. She straightens her shoulders, a small, proud smile forming.

"She's getting married. And I get to stand beside her. That's all that matters today."

Shisuta: "Shisuta… you don't have to thank me. Of course I'm here. There's nowhere else I'd be on a day like this."

Her voice softens, the edges smoothing into something gentler.

"Being your Maid of Honor… it's an honor I don't take lightly. And yes, I'm nervous too, probably more than I should be, but that's only because I care."

She exhales, a small, fond smile tugging at her lips.

"I know I've been… cautious about Luis. You can't blame me; it's in my nature. But I've seen the way he looks at you. The way you look at him. And if he's the one who brings you peace… then I'm happy for you. Truly."

She reaches out, resting a steadying hand on Shisuta's arm.

"These past few years, you've been more than a teammate. More than a sister. You've been someone I could trust, someone I could lean on. And I'm grateful for every moment of it."

Her voice dips, quiet but sincere.

"I'm proud of you, Shisuta. And I'm honored to stand beside you today."

Aranai: "You clean up surprisingly well, Aranai. I'll give you that."

Her tone is dry, but not unkind.

"And before you say anything, yes — I'm handling the Maid of Honor duties just fine. Someone around here has to keep things organized."

She adjusts her glasses, then sighs softly, the edge in her voice easing.

"Listen… I know you and I butt heads more than is probably healthy. And I know you're trying your best today, even if you pretend you're not."

She glances toward Shisuta, her expression softening.

"She needs both of us. And whether we like it or not, we make a good team when it counts."

Her eyes return to Aranai, steady and sincere.

"As for Luis… I'm still watching him. Closely. But if he makes her happy, then I'll tolerate him. For her sake."

She pauses, then adds quietly.

"And for what it's worth… I'm glad you're here too. Just don't make me repeat that."

Yomi: "Yomi… sweetheart, you look absolutely beautiful."

She brushes a stray curl behind Yomi's ear, her voice softening in a way it never does in court or on the battlefield.

"I can't believe how big you're getting. It feels like just yesterday you were learning to count with Shisuta at the kitchen table… and now look at you."

She straightens the bow on Yomi's dress, making sure every detail is perfect.

"Remember what we practiced, okay? Nice and slow down the aisle, sprinkle the petals gently, and smile. You're going to do wonderfully."

Her eyes warm with pride, a rare vulnerability shining through.

"I'm so proud of you, my love. I know I'm not home as much as I want to be… but everything I do, I do for you. And seeing you here today… it makes all of it worth it."

She presses a soft kiss to Yomi's forehead.

"Go on, darling. Show everyone how amazing you are."

Luis: "Luis, I suppose congratulations are in order — for both of you. And before you worry, no, I'm not here to dredge up our past battle or lecture you about Aoyama versus Ueno. That was a long time ago, and today isn't about rivalry."

She adjusts her glasses, her tone softening just a touch.

"Shisuta loves you. That much is obvious. And you clearly care for her in return. If she has chosen you — if she has found happiness with you — then I can accept that. I want her to have peace, and if you provide that, then you have my support."

Her expression shifts, becoming more serious, more precise.

"However… understand this clearly. Shisuta is my closest friend. My sister in all but blood. If you ever treat her with disrespect, if you harm her emotionally, spiritually, or in any way that violates her trust, or the law, I will intervene. And I assure you, I am far more thorough than Aranai when it comes to consequences."

She lets the words settle, then offers a small, sincere nod.

"But I believe you're a good man. And I hope the two of you build something beautiful together. So… best of luck, Luis. Truly."

— Luis

"…I still can't believe this is real."

Luis exhales slowly, adjusting his tie for the fifth time, not because it's crooked but because his hands won't stop fidgeting.

"Me. Getting married."

He lets out a soft, incredulous laugh.

"Relationships were never my thing. Tomi and Karada… they always had stories. Always bragging about their ‘success' with women."

His expression twists, half disgust, half reluctant envy.

"I hated listening to it. Hated how shallow it all sounded. But a small part of me… wondered what it would be like. To have someone. To be wanted."

His eyes lower, remembering the last time he tried, that high school relationship he'd rather bury than revisit.

"I figured that was it for me. That I'd missed my chance."

He straightens, looking at his reflection with something like disbelief.

"And now here I am. In the prime of my life, about to marry a woman who… who changed everything."

A faint smile touches his lips.

"Life really is strange."

He pauses, thinking of his teammates.

"It's a shame Tomi and Karada aren't here. Not that I expected them to be. Karada would've complained about the church, and Tomi…" He sighs. "Well, Tomi would've been Tomi."

A beat passes, then a quiet chuckle.

"Honestly… maybe it's better this way."

He closes his eyes, steadying himself.

"Today isn't about them. It's about her. And I'm ready."

Aranai: Luis watches Aranai walk off after her warning, letting the silence settle before he finally exhales through his nose, not annoyed, not intimidated, just thoughtful.

"I figured she'd say something like that."

He raises his voice just enough for her to hear as she slows her steps.

"I'm not here to start trouble either. Not today, not ever."

He meets her gaze with a steady calm that's almost disarming.

"Yeah, our teams fought. Yeah, we were rivals. But that was then. I don't hold grudges, and I'm not interested in digging up old battles."

His expression softens, a faint, almost amused smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.

"And as for your threat… I get it. Really. If someone tried to get close or hurt my grandmother, I'd probably say and do a lot worse."

He places a hand over his chest, not dramatically, just honestly.

"But you don't have to worry. If I ever hurt Shisuta… I wouldn't need you to come after me. I'd never forgive myself."

His voice deepens with quiet conviction.

"I love her. I'm here because I want to spend my life protecting her, not causing her pain."

He gives her a small nod, respectful, genuine.

"So we're good. You look out for her your way, and I'll look out for her mine."

Kisouna: Luis listens to Kisouna's words without interrupting, his expression calm and composed, the way it always is when he's taking something seriously. When she finishes, he gives her a small nod, not submissive, not defensive, just… understanding.

"Kisouna, I appreciate your honesty. And your support. I know it isn't easy for you to trust someone who used to stand on the opposite side of the stage, especially when that someone is marrying your best friend."

He folds his hands behind his back, posture respectful.

"Aranai gave me her warning too. And like with her, I'm not bothered by it. I know it comes from a place of love. You care about Shisuta. You want her safe. I'd be worried if you didn't say something."

His voice deepens with quiet conviction.

"But I'll tell you the same thing I told her: if I ever hurt Shisuta, in any way, I wouldn't need you to come after me. I'd never forgive myself."

He meets Kisouna's gaze steadily, without flinching.

"I love her. I'm here because I want to protect her, support her, and build a life with her. And I'm grateful that you're giving us your blessing… even if it comes with conditions. So, thank you, Kisouna. For trusting me enough to stand beside her today."

Yomi: "Hey, pequeñita… you look beautiful today."

His voice is gentle, quieter than usual, as if he's afraid of startling her the way he did the first time they met.

"I still remember when Shisuta introduced us. I thought she had a secret kid she forgot to mention."

He chuckles softly, shaking his head.

"You were so scared of me back then. Can't blame you, I'm… a lot of person to look at."

There's a warmth in his eyes now, something fond and genuine.

"But you climbed right onto my shoulders like it was nothing once Shisuta showed you it was okay. And you ate half the sweets I made without even blinking. I'm glad you're here today. It means a lot to Shisuta… and to me."

He reaches out and gently pats her head, careful not to disturb her hair or flowers.

"You're gonna do great out there, Yomi. And don't worry, I'll be cheering for you."

Shisuta: "Shisuta… I don't think I ever imagined my life leading me here. Not like this. Not with someone like you."

His voice is low, steady, but there's a tremor of awe beneath it.

"You're right, it feels unreal. Two people who once stood on opposite sides of a stage, throwing verses at each other's teams… and now we're here, about to promise our lives to one another."

He chuckles softly, shaking his head.

"I was never good at relationships. Tomi and Karada… they always made it sound so easy. Like it was some game they'd already mastered. I hated listening to them brag, but I'd be lying if I said I didn't feel a little jealous sometimes."

His eyes soften as he looks at her.

"But then I met you. Really met you. And suddenly… it didn't feel impossible anymore."

He lifts her hand to his lips, pressing a gentle kiss to her fingers.

"You made it easy to love someone again. Easy to hope. Easy to believe that maybe I deserved something good."

He exhales, a quiet, reverent breath.