The principal's office was abuzz with lively chatter.

Mei sat on the couch, slightly removed from the animated exchange between Lyon and her father, who seemed to have bonded as if they'd been friends for years.

"Hahaha! Did you know that Mei used to cry about her favorite shinai being broken by a rival when she was just 9? I still remember her running to me, tears streaming down her face, crying 'daddy, daddy! That girl just broke my sword!'" her father roared with laughter.

"Hehe, I can just picture her doing that. Speaking of which, did you know she makes the cutest face when you pinch her cheek? I couldn't resist pinching just a bit longer to see that expression," Lyon chuckled.

"Oh, you've inspired me, Lyon. I'll make sure to get a good camera to capture that. It would be a perfect addition to my memory collection!" her father exclaimed, clearly amused.

Mei could only shake her head as she listened. As embarrassing as their conversation was, she didn't want to interrupt their enjoyment.

It had been quite some time since she'd seen her father so upbeat. Lyon, with his straightforward manner, seemed to naturally draw out people's genuine sides.

Her father's laughter continued as he took a swig from his bottle, while Lyon sipped his water. Mei couldn't help but smile at the scene unfolding before her—it was almost like a picture-perfect family moment.

She felt a warm blush spread across her cheeks as she clasped her hands in her lap.

'Did I really just think that? Oh...'

She glanced over at the two again, relieved they hadn't noticed her flustered state.

'If Lyon had seen that, he'd never let me live it down. But I suppose I wouldn't mind that too much.'

Lyon, ever candid and direct, spoke his heart. His unfiltered approach often brought a refreshing clarity.

Suddenly, the mood shifted as her father's face turned serious. Lyon, unfazed, mirrored the change, his expression becoming earnest.

Ryoma adjusted his tie and took a deep breath. "I think it's time we put aside the lighter topics. We need to discuss the real reason I've called you both here today, particularly you, Lyon."

Lyon straightened his collar and rolled up his sleeves, a sign he was ready for whatever was coming. "I'm not sure what you're hinting at, but I'm all ears, sir."

Mei, buoyed by Lyon's confidence, nodded in agreement. "We're both here and ready to listen, Father. Whatever it is, it must be important."

Ryoma gave a slight nod, clearly pleased by their readiness. "Thank you, both. What I'm about to share concerns you especially, Mei. We need to be prepared for the repercussions of our actions. What we do next could significantly stir public opinion."

Confusion flickered across Lyon and Mei's faces as they absorbed Ryoma's cryptic warning.

Lyon interrupted Ryoma, his tone edged with frustration, "Old man, you're being cryptic. Can you explain this more clearly?"

Mei remained silent, allowing Lyon to take the lead in navigating the conversation through these formal waters.

Ryoma pursed his lips into a frown, his gaze sinking into the contents of his cup. "I realize you both may not fully grasp the complexities of the outside world. Mei, while you are aware of the nature of my work, the intricacies are beyond your current understanding. Regrettably, all I can offer now is a caution."

Mei's frown deepened, dissatisfied and anxious about her father's vague implications. It felt as if he was hinting at a national crisis.

Lyon, unable to contain his agitation, looked as though he was ready to slam his hand down on the table. "A warning that we'd better take seriously, is it?"

The room's atmosphere tensed, charged with the intensity of the stares between Lyon and Ryoma.

Mei was struck by fear. It was daunting to see Lyon, a student with no formal authority, holding his ground against her father, a CEO with significant global influence.

Unconsciously, Mei reached for Lyon's hand, her grip tight, seeking to transmit a sense of calm.

Lyon's stance softened under her touch.

He clicked his tongue and ran a hand down his face in frustration. "This is troublesome... especially when we're in the dark about what you're going to disclose."

Mei, aiming to ease the tension, chimed in, "Father, while Lyon and I understand that you're withholding details, your demeanor suggests it involves us all deeply."

Ryoma, recognizing their attempt to understand, nodded appreciatively. "Thank you, Mei, Lyon. As it stands, ME Corp is currently under investigation. I'm concerned about the repercussions it may have, particularly for you, Mei."

Ryoma's voice wavered slightly as he spoke of the investigation, a detail Lyon noted with a sharp glance, his eyes narrowing.

Mei felt a mix of emotions—concern, acceptance, and a daunting realization of the seriousness of her father's words. It was clear he wouldn't be sharing such grave concerns with them if it weren't absolutely necessary.

Ryoma's expression grew somber. "I didn't want to burden you with this, Mei. But I fear what the future holds could alter your life drastically. Understand, as a father, my priority is your safety and happiness."

Mei's expression shifted to one of shock, her mouth slightly agape.

Lyon, sensing the moment's gravity, turned to her. "Mei, perhaps you should step outside for a bit."

Confusion flickered across Mei's face as she looked at him, then transforming into astonishment. Lyon's blue eyes seemed to shimmer, radiating an almost celestial glow.

His presence felt different, and though Mei was unsure what to make of it, his next words filled her with reassurance.

"Mei, trust me. I need to speak with your dad alone."

Her uncertainty was replaced by trust, a testament to their bond.

Ryoma, though he kept his feelings hidden, nodded subtly in agreement.

Understanding the gesture, Mei stood, her gaze supportive yet cautious. "While I'm confident you won't be harmed, please be careful with my father."

Lyon flashed his characteristic grin and playfully shooed her. "Yeah, yeah, I'll be fine. We'll catch up outside."

With a reassured smile, Mei walked towards the door, casting one last look at her father, her heart heavy with mixed emotions.

Once she exited, Lyon's expression turned grave, the earlier warmth replaced by a steely resolve as he faced Ryoma.

Lyon polished his sunglasses on his sleeve, a sign of his growing impatience. "Alright, old man, out with it. I didn't appreciate the way you were skirting around your true intentions regarding Mei."

Ryoma's frown deepened. "She... she isn't prepared for the potential outcomes. I'm only suggesting it as a possibility, but if what I fear comes to pass... Oh dear..."

As Ryoma's eyes began to well up, Lyon lost his patience.

"Oi, are you treating me like some naive fool? Someone who doesn't understand the so-called 'world of men' you operate in? I've seen the impact of your actions, how they ripple through society and affect the everyday lives of ordinary people."

Lyon stood, towering over Ryoma, his voice firm. "You claim to want to protect Mei, yet your words are riddled with inconsistencies."

Ryoma clenched his fists, feeling the sting of Lyon's rebuke.

Lyon's gaze hardened as he leaned in. "Honestly, you might have been better off keeping Mei and me in the dark about your supposed troubles. Why show up if you can't be forthright? You're only making yourself look foolish."

He narrowed his eyes, his disappointment palpable. "If you were really trying to be a good father, you'd handle things quietly behind the scenes. Instead, you tell us to 'be careful' and brace for the worst. Do you realize how unsettling that is? Why even bother?"

Ryoma absorbed Lyon's critique in silence.

The room was tense as Lyon awaited a response. But Ryoma's next words caught him off guard.

"Good."

Lyon arched an eyebrow. "Good...?"

Ryoma nodded, wiping away his tears as he stood. "Yes, you are exactly the kind of person I hoped you would be for Mei—to protect her."

"Hah?" Lyon's confusion was evident.

Ryoma straightened his suit, a mixture of relief and resolve in his tone. "You're right; I was careless. I should have kept this from both you and Mei. Yet, here you are, showing sensibility and practicality that's rare in this city."

Though still skeptical, Lyon listened quietly.

Ryoma continued, "Perhaps it's best I didn't divulge everything, just the essence, which I've done. But from the bottom of my heart, I must ask..."

He bowed deeply before Lyon. "Please, protect Mei! She's unaware of how harshly she might be judged if our family's reputation suffers. I believe you're the only one who can truly safeguard her."

As Ryoma bowed, his shoulders shook with quiet sobs.

Lyon sighed and scratched his head, his demeanor softening. "Old man, you don't need to beg. As her friend, Mei's already under my protection. I look after those I care about, and Mei's included in that."

Ryoma trembled with gratitude. "Thank you..."

Lyon shrugged, half-joking, "Just so you know, if your fears become reality, don't blame me if I have to knock some sense into anyone who dares speak ill of Mei."

"Thank you, Lyon. I mean it sincerely," Ryoma expressed, deeply moved.

Lyon huffed, glancing out the window where the afternoon sun still lingered. "Anything for a friend... Anything for a friend."

Despite the resolution of their conversation, Lyon was left with a nagging feeling of uncertainty about the full extent of the looming crisis.

Meanwhile, Mei stood outside the door, her posture stiff and uneasy as she waited.

Inside, Lyon's voice grew louder and more intense, while her father's responses seemed to diminish, his tone quavering slightly. What could be causing such a heated exchange?

'Is Lyon getting worked up on my behalf? No, that can't be it, but...'

Her father's cryptic words had puzzled her, yet it seemed Lyon had grasped something she had missed.

As she clasped her hands tightly, Mei pondered, "Maybe Lyon can clarify things for me? Could he be upset about becoming my father's official worker? I didn't realize it would affect him this much."

The truth remained elusive, and Mei was left to guess.

Suddenly, the voices ceased, and moments later, Lyon emerged from the room, gently shutting the door behind him.

He eyed Mei with a hint of suspicion. "You weren't listening in, were you?"

Mei tilted her head, feigning ignorance. "Umm... I could hear you two, but couldn't make sense of anything."

Lyon studied her for a moment, then broke into a grin. "Heh, seems like you didn't. Let's head out. Your dad is waiting for the principal now, so we've got some time to ourselves."

Mei nodded, and they began walking, each lost in their own thoughts.

Lyon hummed a familiar tune, a comfort to Mei in the silence, while she dwelled on her father's foreboding words.

She was so engrossed in her thoughts that she didn't realize she had stopped walking until Lyon called out to her.

"Mei."

Startled, Mei quickly caught up to him.

"I'm sorry, it's just that... what my father said..."

Lyon dismissed her concerns with a wave. "It's not something you need to worry about right now."

Mei clasped her hands against her chest, her anxiety palpable. "But what if what he said does happen?"

Lyon flicked her forehead, causing her to yelp. "What did I tell you? There's no need to worry today. You're supposed to be enjoying a conversation with me. Tomorrow's worries can wait for tomorrow."

Mei rubbed her forehead, still uneasy. "I just... I've never seen my father like that. Maybe I'm overthinking it..."

Lyon offered a reassuring pat on her shoulder. "Look, if anything does happen, I'll be there for you."

Mei blushed, her voice wavering. "B-Be there?"

Lyon held up his hands, his tone earnest. "As your friend, I mean. If you're in deep trouble, I'm there to help. How about this—"

He extended his pinkie towards her.

"—a pinkie promise that I'll be there for you in your deepest trouble? I, alone, am the honored one. I will be there to protect my only friend from the troubles of the world."

Mei hesitated, then smiled as she linked her pinkie with his. "I accept your promise, Lyon."

Lyon patted her shoulder again, his smile broadening. "Great, now let's enjoy the day, ya? By the way, can you believe it? Your dad converted the card I picked up into my personal card and transferred some funds. I'm practically a millionaire in USD!"

Mei chuckled, her worries momentarily forgotten.

Lyon was right. Today was for enjoying the moment. Her future worries could wait.

Because right now, she wanted to savor her time with Lyon.

---

The studio door burst open.

"I'm home~"

Bronya regarded the entrance with an almost feline curiosity. "Welcome home."

Lyon yawned and stretched, carrying a bag filled with various treats to the table.

Bronya eyed the contents and inquired, "Subject Lyon appears to have brought a substantial amount of food. Is there a special occasion?"

Lyon shrugged and flopped onto the couch, "Not really, just felt like celebrating a good day, you know?"

Bronya tilted her head, puzzled. "The Bronya does not recall today marking a significant event."

Lyon chuckled as he pulled a bun from the bag. "Nah, it's just a personal celebration. Feel free to help yourself to some food."

The Russian doll-like girl nodded and took a bun, savoring its taste.

Delicious.

As they relished the quiet moment, Lyon suddenly posed a question.

"Hey Bronya... What would you do if a friend was in danger?"

Bronya regarded him with a quizzical expression. "Where is subject Lyon going with this question?"

Lyon sighed, taking another bite of his bun. "A friend received a warning from her estranged dad that she might be in danger soon. Who tells their kid stuff like that, huh?"

Bronya understood the gravity of Lyon's words and felt a pang of sympathy.

While she was bound by a mission that prevented full disclosure, she empathized with Lyon's concern, having faced similar challenges herself.

She glanced down at her half-eaten bun and responded, "The Bronya would endeavor to protect them."

Lyon grinned, a bun still in his mouth. "So we're on the same page, huh? I'm glad you're my friend, Bronya."

For the first time since her arrival in the studio, Bronya experienced a fleeting pang of emotion.

An emotion she hadn't felt in a long time.

"Hmm... The Bronya is also pleased."

The two spent the rest of the day in harmony, watching TV and debating the merits of various Digimons.

Months later, a news headline caught their attention:

"CEO of ME Corp, Raiden Ryoma, Arrested for Embezzlement. Scandal Unfolds!"

End of Chapter

---

A/N: Oh boy, we're entering 'that' arc. I hope you all enjoy this one.