Chicago and Ryuko stood outside the closed door, their expressions tense yet hopeful as they awaited news from within. The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on them, but a glimmer of optimism lingered in their hearts.

After what felt like an eternity, Suki, Olivia's caretaker, emerged from the room, her demeanor noticeably brighter than before. She approached Chicago and Ryuko with a sense of relief evident in her features.

"I have good news," Suki announced, her voice tinged with a hint of excitement. "Olivia's leftover Vitality has merged perfectly with Stella's. The other caretakers believe she might wake up soon."

A wave of relief washed over Chicago and Ryuko at the news, their expressions softening with gratitude. They exchanged a glance, their eyes reflecting the shared sense of hope that blossomed within them.

"Thank goodness," Chicago murmured, her voice filled with relief. "We've been waiting for this moment for so long."

Ryuko nodded in agreement, her expression one of quiet optimism. "We need to be there for her when she wakes up," she declared, determination shining in her eyes.

Suki smiled warmly at their reaction, glad to see them finding solace in the positive development. "Of course," she replied, her voice gentle. "I'll keep you updated on her progress."

With a renewed sense of hope in their hearts, Chicago and Ryuko followed Suki back into the room, their anticipation growing with each step. As they approached Olivia's bedside, Chicago couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement building within her, eager to witness the moment her dear acquaintance would finally awaken.

As Chicago and Olivia shared a moment alone, Chicago's eyes softened as she gazed upon her friend's peaceful form. The sight of Olivia's improved complexion brought a sense of relief to her, the gentle blush on her cheeks a welcome sign of vitality returning.

With a tender smile, Chicago reached out to gently brush a stray strand of hair away from Olivia's face, her touch light and affectionate. "You're going to wake up soon, Liv," she whispered, her voice filled with hope and longing.

As Chicago sat by Olivia's side, offering silent reassurance, Ryuko quietly slipped out of the room, leaving them to their moment of intimacy. Making her way over to where Suki stood with the other caretakers, Ryuko's expression was a mix of gratitude and determination.

"Thank you for everything," Ryuko said sincerely, her voice carrying a note of appreciation. "We're truly grateful for your care and support."

Suki nodded in acknowledgment, her expression reflecting the shared sense of relief and anticipation. "It's our pleasure," she replied warmly. "We're all rooting for Olivia's recovery."

As the caretakers bustled around the room, attending to various machines and technologies, Suki took charge, supervising their efforts with a practiced eye. She moved with purpose, issuing instructions and directing the flow of activity with precision.

Suki's attention shifted to Ryuko, her expression serious as she approached her with purpose. "Ryuko," she began, her voice firm but compassionate, "we'll need your powers as Clovia to sever the link between the SoulCon and Stella's Vitality remnants."

Ryuko nodded in understanding, her resolve firm as she prepared to fulfill her role in the delicate procedure. "Understood," she replied, her voice steady despite the weight of responsibility resting upon her shoulders. "I'll do whatever it takes to help Olivia."

As Ryuko focused on her task, a sense of unease prickled at the back of her mind, like the lingering gaze of unseen eyes boring into her. Despite the sensation, she pushed it aside, her attention fully devoted to the important work at hand.

Meanwhile, Suki's keen instincts alerted her to a potential issue with one of the machines, prompting her to intervene swiftly. With a sense of urgency, she hurried over to the malfunctioning equipment, her expertise guiding her as she assessed the situation.

Ryuko's heart skipped a beat as Suki called her over, her voice cutting through the din of activity in the room. With a sense of purpose, Ryuko approached, her steps quickening as she reached Suki's side.

Suki handed Ryuko a set of medical instruments, her expression serious as she relayed the urgency of the situation. "It's time," she said firmly, her tone leaving no room for hesitation. "Go now, Ryuko. Olivia needs you."

Ryuko nodded in acknowledgment, her resolve strengthening as she prepared to embark on the crucial task that lay ahead. Ryuko paused in front of the room where Chicago and Olivia were, taking in the gentle whispers and the accompanying silence beyond the door. Ryuko pushed the door open and studied the whispers between Chicago and Olivia.

As Chicago spoke to Olivia's motionless form, her words filled the air with a mixture of hope and anticipation. "Olivia, can you hear me?" she murmured, her voice laced with tenderness. "We're all so excited for you to wake up. You have no idea how much everyone's been waiting for this moment."

Chicago's gaze lingered on Olivia's serene face, a gentle smile playing at the corners of her lips. Despite the stillness that enveloped the room, there was an unmistakable sense of warmth and optimism in Chicago's words, as though she were trying to coax Olivia back to consciousness with her heartfelt encouragement.

As Ryuko approached, Chicago looked up with curiosity, her eyes brightening at the sight of her friend. Sensing the gravity of Ryuko's presence, Chicago's expression softened, a silent understanding passing between them.

When Ryuko requested a moment alone with Olivia, Chicago's initial apprehension was palpable, though she made no protest. With a nod of concession, she rose from her seat beside Olivia's bed, her movements hesitant yet resolute.

"I'll be right outside if you need me," Chicago reassured Olivia's still form, her voice tinged with a hint of uncertainty. With one last lingering look, she turned and exited the room, leaving Ryuko alone with her thoughts and the sleeping girl who held the key to their hopes and dreams.

Ryuko carefully set the medical instruments on an empty table beside Olivia's still form. Each tool was meticulously arranged, a silent testament to Ryuko's unwavering focus on the task at hand.

As Ryuko's gaze fell upon Olivia's motionless body, she couldn't help but frown at the sight of the messy scar marring her neck. The remnants of the SoulCon's connection were unmistakable, a painful reminder of the ordeal Olivia had endured. Ryuko's fingers traced the edges of the scar gently, her touch feather-light as she inspected the damage.

"Don't worry, Olivia," Ryuko murmured, her voice filled with reassurance. "I'll fix what I can. You're not alone in this."

With practiced precision, Ryuko began her work, her movements fluid and purposeful. Each incision was made with care, each stitch meticulously placed as she worked to repair the damage caused by the SoulCon's invasive presence.

Despite the gravity of the situation, Ryuko remained calm and focused, her determination unwavering as she labored to undo the harm that had been done. With each passing moment, she felt a sense of purpose wash over her, driving her forward in her quest to heal Olivia's wounded soul.

As Ryuko worked, she couldn't shake the feeling of being watched, a subtle sense of unease prickling at the edges of her consciousness. Ignoring the sensation, she pressed on, her attention solely focused on the task at hand.

With one final stitch, Ryuko stepped back to survey her handiwork. Though the scar remained, it was no longer the jagged mess it once was. Ryuko nodded in satisfaction, a sense of accomplishment washing over her as she gazed down at Olivia's peaceful form.

Ryuko pricked her thumb with a small sterile needle, a tiny bead of blood welling up at the tip. She held her thumb aloft for a moment, watching as the droplet grew, reflecting the dim light of the room.

Studying the crimson liquid, Ryuko noted with a hint of fascination how the color differed from that of a normal person's blood. Hers was tinged with a subtle bluish hue, a testament to the unique powers that coursed through her veins. It was a reminder of her otherworldly origins, a gift and a curse intertwined.

Allowing the drop to linger for a moment longer, Ryuko carefully brought her thumb closer to Olivia's scar, her movements deliberate and precise. With a steady hand, she released the droplet, watching with rapt attention as it landed on the scarred tissue.

As the blue-tinged blood made contact with Olivia's skin, Ryuko felt a surge of energy course through her, a palpable connection forming between them. She watched with growing fascination as the blood began to shimmer, its color shifting from blue to white as it dissolved into the wound.

With each passing moment, Ryuko observed in awe as the scar gradually faded, the damaged tissue repairing itself before her very eyes. It was a mesmerizing sight, evidence of the power that flowed through her veins and the miraculous abilities it bestowed upon her.

As the last traces of the scar vanished, Ryuko couldn't help but feel a sense of pride swell within her. She had done it. She had healed Olivia's wound and restored her to her former self.

Olivia lay still, her chest rising and falling with the steady rhythm of sleep, Ryuko couldn't help but feel a surge of anticipation. Her heart fluttered with hope as she watched Olivia's eyelids flutter gently, a sign that she was on the brink of awakening. Yet, despite the subtle movement, Olivia remained unconscious, her mind still lost in the depths of slumber.

Frustration gnawed at Ryuko's insides as she watched, willing Olivia to open her eyes and return to the world of the waking. She longed to see the sparkle of recognition in Olivia's gaze, to hear the sound of her voice once more. But for now, all she could do was wait and hope for the best.

As Ryuko remained lost in her thoughts, she felt a sudden presence creep up behind her, a shiver running down her spine. Instinctively, she whirled around, her fist shooting out in a swift punch aimed at the intruder.

A gasp escaped the intruder's lips as Ryuko's fist connected with their nose, causing them to stumble back in pain. Before they could react, Ryuko delivered a swift kick to their shin, causing them to crumple to the ground with a whimper.

Ryuko stood over the fallen figure, her breath coming in ragged gasps as adrenaline coursed through her veins. With a wary eye, she assessed the intruder, her muscles tensed and ready for any further aggression.

Ryuko's eyes narrowed as she observed the hateful glare directed at her. She remained on guard, her muscles tense and ready to react at a moment's notice. When the person attempted to get up once more, Ryuko reacted swiftly, delivering another well-placed kick to keep them subdued.

"Why did you creep up on me?" Ryuko demanded, her voice edged with authority as she kept her gaze fixed on the intruder. "What do you want?"

The intruder remained silent, their expression twisted with resentment and defiance. Ryuko's patience wore thin as she waited for a response, her frustration mounting with each passing moment.

Before she could press the intruder further, they suddenly lunged at her, their hands clawing at the air in a desperate attempt to inflict harm. Ryuko reacted instinctively, sidestepping the attack and delivering a swift blow to their side, causing them to stagger back with a grunt of pain.

Undeterred, the intruder regained their footing, their eyes burning with malice as they prepared to strike again. Ryuko braced herself for another attack, her senses on high alert as she prepared to defend herself against the relentless onslaught.

the banging on the door momentarily distracted Ryuko, the intruder seized the opportunity to grab hold of her dark blue hair with a triumphant scream. With a sharp tug, they attempted to pull Ryuko towards the corner of the room, their grip tightening with each passing moment.

Ryuko gritted her teeth against the pain, her determination fueling her resistance as she fought back against the relentless assault. In a swift motion, she twisted out of the intruder's grasp, her movements fluid and calculated as she broke free from their hold.

As they struggled against each other, the table where the medical instruments had been placed was knocked over, sending the equipment clattering to the floor with a loud crash.

In a swift and decisive move, Ryuko seized a nearby scalpel and pressed it against the intruder's throat with unwavering resolve. The intruder's eyes widened in shock as the cold steel of the blade made contact with their skin, a thin trickle of blood welling up from the shallow cut.

With a sharp inhale, the intruder attempted to turn around, but Ryuko applied more pressure to the scalpel, causing them to wince in pain. The threat of the blade against their throat left them immobilized, their movements hesitant as they realized the precariousness of their situation.

Ryuko's grip tightened on the scalpel, her gaze steely as she stared down the intruder with unwavering determination. "Who are you?" she demanded, her voice low and commanding as she awaited their response.

"Who are you?" Ryuko repeated, her voice echoing with authority as she kept the scalpel firmly pressed against the intruder's throat.

Just then, another voice broke the tension in the room, its tone calm but tinged with curiosity. "I've never known of anyone with violet eyes," the newcomer remarked, their voice drawing Ryuko's attention.

Ryuko's grip on the intruder faltered for a moment as she turned her gaze toward the source of the voice, her eyes widening in surprise. There, sitting on the table with a concerned and confused expression, was Olivia, her eyes fixed intently on the scene unfolding before her.

Ryuko's mind raced with a whirlwind of emotions as she took in Olivia's unexpected presence. Despite the shock of seeing her awake, Ryuko remained focused, her instincts urging her to maintain control of the situation.

With a steely resolve, Ryuko tightened her grip on the scalpel, her gaze unwavering as she addressed the intruder once more. "Answer the damn question," she demanded her voice firm and commanding as she awaited their response.

"What has been promised to Bellisi will always be fulfilled," the intruder declared in a rough, gravelly voice, their words ringing with an unsettling certainty.

Ryuko's brow furrowed in confusion at the cryptic statement, her mind racing to make sense of the intruder's words. She tightened her grip on the scalpel, her resolve unyielding as she sought to maintain control of the situation. Before she could press for further explanation, the intruder suddenly went still in her arms, their body growing motionless as if frozen in time.

With a mixture of surprise and curiosity, Ryuko watched as the scalpel broke through the intruder's skin, drawing a trickle of red blood that dripped slowly to the ground. The sight held her transfixed for a moment, the crimson droplets stark against the pale skin of the intruder's throat.

As the intruder remained motionless, Ryuko's instincts told her that something wasn't right. She released her grip on the scalpel, her mind racing with questions and uncertainty.

Turning her attention to Olivia, who still sat on the table with a look of bewilderment, Ryuko approached her cautiously, her movements deliberate as she reached out a hand to touch Olivia's shoulder.

"Olivia, are you alright?" Ryuko asked softly, her voice tinged with concern as she studied Olivia's expression for any sign of distress or discomfort.

Olivia's curiosity shone through her confusion as she inquired about the duration of her slumber. "How long have I been asleep?" she asked, her voice tinged with curiosity.

Ryuko spared a moment to glance at Olivia, her expression softening as she relayed the information. "It's been an exact 43 days since you arrived in the Blue Westerns," she replied, her tone gentle yet matter-of-fact.

Olivia absorbed the information with a nod, her mind racing as she processed the implications of her extended absence. With a newfound resolve, she hopped off the table and began to inspect herself, her movements deliberate as she took in the unfamiliar features of her borrowed body.

"It's not my body," Olivia stated matter-of-factly, her voice tinged with a mixture of bewilderment and worry. "It's... Olivia's."

Ryuko's brows furrowed in confusion as she listened to Olivia's cryptic statement. "What do you mean by it not being your body?" she inquired, her voice tinged with curiosity.

Olivia hesitated for a moment, her expression grave as she struggled to find the right words to explain. "I'm not Olivia," she admitted quietly, her tone tinged with a mixture of resignation and uncertainty. "I'm... Stella."

Ryuko's reaction was not as surprised as she had expected. Instead, she regarded Olivia with a thoughtful expression, her gaze penetrating yet understanding. "I had a feeling," she admitted, her voice calm and steady. "But I needed to hear it from you."

Olivia's eyes widened in surprise at Ryuko's response, her expression a mixture of relief and apprehension. "You... knew?" she asked, her voice tinged with disbelief.

Ryuko nodded solemnly, her gaze unwavering as she met Olivia's eyes. "Your energy felt familiar," she explained, her voice tinged with empathy. "I suspected that something had happened to your soul, but I couldn't be sure until now."

Ryuko's brow furrowed in concern as she listened to Stella's hesitant response. "Do you have any memories before this?" she asked gently, her tone filled with compassion.

Stella fell silent for a moment, her expression troubled as she delved into her thoughts. After a brief pause, she met Ryuko's gaze with a look of apprehension. "I... I think so," she admitted slowly, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "But... they're different."

Ryuko's confusion deepened at Stella's cryptic answer. "Different how?" she inquired, her tone laced with curiosity.

Stella's eyes widened with a sudden realization, her features contorting with fear as she struggled to articulate her thoughts. "I have... two sets of memories," she confessed, her voice trembling with unease. "It's like... I'm remembering two different lives."

Ryuko's eyes widened in surprise at Stella's revelation, her mind racing with possibilities. "Two different lives?" she echoed, her voice filled with disbelief. "But how is that possible?"

Stella shook her head, her expression haunted as she grappled with the implications of her newfound revelation. "I don't know," she admitted softly, her voice barely above a whisper. "But I'm scared. What if I'm not who I think I am?"

Ryuko's movements were deliberate as she fetched a cup of water from the nearby sink, her focus unwavering despite the chaos unfolding around her. With measured steps, she approached Stella, offering her the cup with a reassuring smile.

"Here, drink this," Ryuko said gently, her voice a soothing presence amid uncertainty. She glanced briefly at the intruder's prone form on the floor, her expression betraying no hint of concern as she stepped over them with ease.

Stella accepted the cup gratefully, taking a sip of water to quench her parched throat.

Stella lowered the cup of water, her gaze meeting Ryuko's with a mixture of determination and vulnerability. "Ryuko," she began softly, her voice tinged with uncertainty, "I need your help."

Ryuko nodded in understanding, her expression sympathetic as she listened to Stella's plea. "Of course, Stella," she replied without hesitation. "I'll do whatever I can to assist you."

Stella hesitated for a moment before speaking again, her voice barely above a whisper. "But... but I don't know where to start," she confessed, her eyes searching Ryuko's for guidance.

Ryuko placed a reassuring hand on Stella's shoulder, offering her a comforting smile. "Don't worry," she reassured her gently. "We'll figure this out together."

Stella's eyes brimmed with gratitude as she met Ryuko's reassuring gaze. "Thank you, Ryuko," she murmured, her voice filled with relief.

Ryuko squeezed Stella's shoulder reassuringly before releasing her grasp. "There's someone who's been worried sick about you," she said, her tone thoughtful. "And she might be able to shed some light on what's been happening."

Stella nodded in agreement, understanding the importance of seeking out the person who cared for her most. "Who do you have in mind?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.

Ryuko's lips curved into a faint smile as she replied, "Chicago. She's been by your side since the beginning, and I have a feeling she might have some answers for us."

As Stella's curiosity piqued, she couldn't help but inquire, "Who's Chicago?"

Ryuko offered a reassuring smile before responding, "Chicago is someone very special to you. She's been here for you through thick and thin."

Before Stella could press further, Ryuko strode towards the door leading to the OT and swung it open. In rushed Suki and the other caretakers, their focus solely on Stella's well-being as they bustled around her, seemingly ignoring the intruder lying motionless on the floor.

Ryuko returned moments later, accompanied by Chicago, who entered the room with a mix of relief and apprehension evident in her expression.

Chicago's voice caught in her throat as she halted in her tracks, her eyes widening in disbelief at the sight of Stella. "Olivia?" she called out, her voice tinged with uncertainty and hope. "How are you feeling?"

Stella, still grappling with her newfound identity, met Chicago's gaze with a mixture of confusion and curiosity. "I'm not Olivia," she replied softly, her voice barely above a whisper. "I'm Stella. Olivia's big sister."

As Chicago's mind raced, connecting the dots that stretched back to her time in Aef's City, a sense of clarity washed over her, illuminating the tangled web of secrets and deception that had surrounded Stella and Olivia's identities.

"Stella," Chicago murmured, her voice tinged with awe and realization. "You're not just anyone. You're the Scion of the fallen Brasti Empire."

Stella's eyes widened in shock as Chicago spoke, her mind reeling from the revelation. "The Brasti Empire?" she repeated, her voice barely a whisper. "But... how is that possible?"

Chicago took a deep breath, her mind racing as she recounted the pieces of information that had fallen into place. "Carabeth," she began, her voice filled with bitterness. "She's the one who orchestrated everything. She swapped your identities, erasing Olivia's existence and implanting you in her place, all to remove your spot as the rightful heir and ruler of the Brasti."

Stella's heart sank as she processed Chicago's words, the weight of the truth settling heavily upon her shoulders. "So Olivia... she's gone?" she asked, her voice trembling with grief.

Chicago nodded solemnly, her expression grave. "I guess so," she replied, her voice heavy with sorrow. "But you, Stella, you're the only hope for the Rebels' Party. You're the key to restoring peace and justice to the Bandit Empire."

Stella's mind whirled with the implications of Chicago's words, her thoughts racing as she grappled with the enormity of her destiny. "Me?" she whispered, her voice barely audible. "But I don't know the first thing about being a leader."

Chicago placed a reassuring hand on Stella's shoulder, her gaze unwavering. "You may not feel ready now, Stella," she said gently, "but the Rebel Party believes in you. Together, we'll face whatever challenges come our way, and we'll emerge victorious."

A sense of determination surged within Stella as she looked into Chicago's eyes, seeing the unwavering faith and support reflected there. "Thank you, Chicago," she said softly, her voice filled with gratitude. "I won't let you down."

Chicago turned to Ryuko, her expression expectant as she awaited an answer to her question. "Can Stella travel?" she inquired, her tone tinged with urgency.

Before Ryuko could respond, Suki interjected, her voice tinged with concern. "Chicago, are you out of your mind?" she exclaimed, her eyes wide with alarm. "We can't just let Stella leave without studying her condition further. Who knows what risks she might face out there?"

Chicago's brows furrowed in frustration as she turned to Suki, her gaze unwavering. "I understand your concern, Suki," she replied, her voice measured. "But Stella's presence is crucial to our cause. We can't afford to delay any longer."

Suki hesitated, her expression conflicted as she weighed the risks against the potential benefits. "But what if something happens to her?" she argued, her voice tinged with apprehension. "We can't take that chance."

Chicago took a step forward, her resolve unwavering as she met Suki's gaze. "Stella is strong, Suki," she insisted, her voice firm. "And she's not alone. I'll protect her every step of the way."

Suki's gaze softened as she regarded Chicago, recognizing the determination and conviction in her friend's eyes. "Alright," she relented, her voice conceding to Chicago's unwavering determination. "But promise me you'll keep her safe."

Chicago nodded solemnly, her commitment unwavering as she clasped Suki's hand in hers. "I promise," she vowed, her voice filled with sincerity. "I'll do whatever it takes to ensure Stella's safety."

With Suki's reluctant approval secured, Chicago turned back to Ryuko, her expression hopeful. "So, can Stella travel with us?" she asked once more, her gaze fixed on Ryuko as she awaited her answer.

Ryuko's frown deepened as she considered Chicago's question. "The decision isn't mine to make," she explained, her voice tinged with frustration. "It ultimately rests with the Empress and the Empress Consort."

Chicago nodded in understanding, though her expression remained hopeful. "When can we meet with them again?" she inquired, her tone eager as she awaited Ryuko's response.

Ryuko sighed, her shoulders sagging slightly under the weight of responsibility. "I'll ask," she promised, her voice resigned. "But I can't make any guarantees."

With a nod of acknowledgment, Chicago turned to Suki, her expression a mixture of determination and anticipation. "We'll wait for their decision," she declared, her voice filled with resolve. "And in the meantime, we'll do everything we can to prepare for Stella's journey."

Suki nodded in agreement, her expression reflecting Chicago's unwavering determination. "We'll make sure she's ready," she affirmed, her voice firm. "And when the time comes, we'll support her every step of the way."

With their plans in motion and the promise of a meeting with the Empress and Empress Consort on the horizon, Chicago and Suki turned their attention to the task at hand, determined to ensure Stella's safety and success in the challenges that lay ahead.