Author notes: Finally replaced the chapter. No need to be confused about what happened. I picked the wrong chapter to upload. Sorry for the inconvenience.
Edit: some minor fixes also thank you Guest for the help.
Youth is a lie. It is nothing more than a delusion.
Those who claim to enjoy lavishly in it are deluding themselves and others. They fit the events and environment around them to the youth mold as self-confirmation which is just another word for self-bias. They will fit any commonly held interpretations of life events to this images in the name of youth. To them, lies, secrets, sins and failures are but seeds of spices in their youth. Supposedly, such failures were an indication of youth, then one who has long to be an outcast must also be at the height of his youth. But they would disagree on this regard. Everything must fit into their idealistic views.
To conclude to you my dear reader: Fools who enjoy this thing called "youth" and waste their time in this delusion should go and freaking commit seppuku.
The tapping sound of a heels that made me unnerved in confronting what is before me, a popped vein manifested on her forehead, my homeroom teacher, Hiratsuka Shizuka, the one reading my essay with a loud voice and the resonance of mockery at each words.
After listening to my essay like that it made me realize that I might've stepped on a landmine. I mean the essay was really good at how it came out, for me anyways. A bunch of long words pieced together to make it look and sound smart was what teachers nowadays are looking for, right? I think so.
Anyways, did this mean my trash writing skills were the reason of my appointment with her then? Of course it's not but if only I had known the trouble I'd receive then things would be much different on my end.
The Staff room that I'm in looks like a standard open office space consisting of joint tables with small partitions and desks for each teacher. Each teacher has personalized their desk kind of like a cubicle to a degree. The one that I'm currently situated in is a section for consultation in which teachers interact with their students in private. Glancing around, there were also students present here, probably talking with the teachers about their grades and what not so they could, this school has high standards evident by the entrance exam that I took.
The woman ceased her tapping, indicating she was done, she put her hand on her forehead and massaged it, a deep sigh escaping her lips.
"Hikigaya, do you know why I called you here for."
"I don't really know." Averting my eyes as I tried to feign ignorance but when I looked back her eyes were piercing to my very being and I'm sure that by her looks I'm meant to take this seriously now.
"It's about the homework that I assigned to you in class and what was it about." she imperatively called out to me.
"Uh, It was to write an essay with the theme of reflecting on my 'high school life'."
"That's right. So why the hell does this essay of yours sounds like a death threat. Are you a terrorist? Or just an idiot?" She sighed once again and ruffled her hair in irritation.
I spaced out and began to think on what I should get for dinner. I think a cup of ramen will do and maybe a can of MAX Coff-
Before I can even finish my train of thoughts. A stack of paper which was rolled up whacked me on the head with a silent thump.
"Listen here brat."
"Yes ma'am."
"Your eyes…. Really look like a dead fish."
"Thanks, I get that a lot." Please think of another insult, that is very unoriginal.
It seems that my sarcastic remark got her, well I think it did?
The corners of her mouth twitched upward. "I'll give you one chance to make a decent excuse on why the hell you made that smart-ass essay of yours." I try too keep my poker face but faltered at the sight of her glaring at me intensely. She's Intimidating as hell. I need to get out of here.
"U-uh, well, I did in fact reflect on my h-high school life you know, from what I experienced anyways." I stuttered my words, good job me.
Just talking to a woman like her makes me really mentally exhausted especially a teacher which made it worse, well not really since their all the same, I'm just glad that there aren't any woman from my 'work' stationed here at this school.
"Usually with this kind of thing I'd give you a punishment but this time I'll give you just a warning and a redemption for you to rewrite your essay and also don't half ass it kid."
"Kid? I guess at that age you can consider me a-"
Woosh
A gush of wind past by, A fist that I was sure gonna leave me a mark barely grazed at me. There was only one thing I needed to do to lessen a woman's anger.
"I'm sorry. I'll write it over." I bow my head at her. Using optimal choice of words to express apology and repentance. At this moment, I actually considered kneeling but I don't want to.
"Look its not that I'm mad you." I looked at her and expected her to be, well mad, but surprisingly she's not, maybe its about 'that', that probably ticked her off. "Weren't you taught to never mention a woman's age." looks like my guess was on point.
She grabs a stick of cigarette from her pack which was in her breast pocket and lit it up with a flick of her cheap lighter. Isn't smoking inside school prohibited? For this woman to do so nonetheless is really destroying the images that I had of teachers in this school but I don't really care about it since it's not my problem.
With a whiff of her smoke, she inhaled and exhaled it all out then she fixes her gaze on me.
"Look kid have you joined any club yet?"
"I haven't joined any yet but I think I'm good." Really don't wanna waste my time on meaningless activities.
"Do you have any friends?" She asked and knowing where this was going. Do I look I have friends? Though my answer shocked her.
"As a matter of fact I do have one." I, Hikigaya Hachiman lied as naturally as I breathed. Sorry for taking advantage of you chuuni-san.
Her eyes narrow in suspicion as she puts away her cigarette and taps it down on her ashtray. "If so tell me who this so called friend of yours is."
"His name is Zaimokuza, someone who I partnered with during gym class from class 2-B."
"I see…" This time she was pondering deeply about something, waiting for her to say anything.
I fix my gaze on the window.
The orange hue of the sky indicates that it is afternoon, which in those time's students are either going home or to their clubs.
After pondering for a while she finally speaks up.
"Okay, just redo your essay properly and I'll leave you with just a warning. Also pass it next week only after classes."
"Yes sensei."
"Good now scram, I have some paperwork to deal with." Nodding my head and bidding my farewell. I sling my bag over my shoulders and went out of the teachers lounge and proceeded to where my next destination, the shoe lockers.
The layout of Soubu High School Building is fairly convoluted hence why most first timers tends to get lost when they enter here. Now If you were to examine from above, it would look like a distorted square leaving a space in the middle of it all just like any private schools here in Japan. All of the facilities share the same road on the second floor, and the whole thing forms a square which surprises no one.
At The center of it all are the court yards. A place where people hang out and do stuff mostly I don't care about.
"Hey have you heard about the leaks about the new MMORPG."
"Yeah dude that's what everyone was talking about in the forums."
Two boys were talking about video games as I glance to my right.
"Look at my phone case doesn't it look cute."
"I got one of those cases too!"
And to my left was a group of girls doing their usual girl talk.
The loud chatters of lively students invaded my ears when I walked past them on the walkway which I decided paid it no mind. As long as they don't bother me all is good and well except when they bother me but I'll just ignore them as if they don't exist. You know a walkways purpose is to be a path for someone to walk and not a place for you guys to hang around and talk about shit that I don't care also will all of you keep it down your all noisy.
This people enjoying their youth makes me wonder if all their dirty little secrets were to be exposed to everyone, would they still be living their so called youth that they deluded in?
Of course they won't as they realize the bitter truth, someone who's labeled as an outcast will just be avoided. Whats the point of being with someone that'll hurt their reputation, they'll do things just to maintain their image in front of others, because their opinion matters to them. All they want is to live optimistically and all negativity they have, they cover up with their lies and deceit.
Due to the lack of individual decision-making, this people tend to think and behave in similar fashion to those around them. The fear of missing out on a profitable investment idea is often the driving force behind their mob instinct. Thus manifesting their herd mentality. This was a very double edged sword. Either someone suffers or you suffer from this, truly there is power in numbers and it just shows how terrifying and cruel life.
This is reality, those who enjoy their youths are a bunch of delusional idiots living and believing in their own lies. Disgust and contempt was all I can give to them but I wont show it or proclaim it to them for what's the point of making enemies it is only a fools errand.
Then a bitter memory resurface. My face crunched and eyes shut. I focused my thoughts on other things and soon it subsided. Still the lingering feeling of bitterness remained, souring my mood.
After I passed the hallway filled with herds of students. The stairs were now before me and I descended upon it, my face showed no emotion as I walked down, though inside my head were filled with many things to think about.
Also, sorry for lying to you Sensei but I just don't want trouble anymore.
Entering the shoe locker area now, in the last row was where my locker was at. Unlike in other foreign countries where as the use of lockers are for storing things, here in Japan we don't have lockers like that but instead its purpose is for storing outdoor shoes and indoor shoes. The reason why they have that is for maintaining the cleanliness inside the campus. It also doubles as a kind of informal letter box in which notes for the student can be left.
Like how those delusional idiots who wants to confess but is too shy to do it so they opted to give out a love letter instead and after the receiver finishes reading he or she proceeds to throw the letter into the trash bin.
Oh how cruel life is.
Placing my school bag on a nearby bench. I rummaged on my pockets until I find my key to open the locker. With a twist the locker was unlocked. Inside were my outdoor shoes. After grabbing it, I placed it down beside my feet and began to remove my indoor shoes. Then putting on my outdoor shoes I returned the indoor shoes on my locker. Closing the doors down with a click which indicates that its locking mechanism is in effect.
Taking my time to reorganize my plans throughout the day.
Rewriting my essay into a much more acceptable one for Hiratsuka-sensei which I will probably work on with it tonight but she did say the deadline was until next week but I have some things I need to take care of so I'll just do it during the weekends. Soon I need to pay for my rent this month which I will after I collect my needed allowance from my 'guardians'. Maybe after that go to a convenience store and buy another case of MAX Coffee.
That seems to be all that needs to be taken care of.
Standing up from the bench and slinging my bag over my shoulder. I walked away from there and into the outside of the vicinity of the school building. There was a lot things I needed to do.
Bzzzt
My phone suddenly vibrated. I opened my bag and rummaged through it. Soon I got my phone out of the bag. The smartphone was a standard android device which houses a gray exterior. I believe the model was a Samsung? I think, okay I didn't buy this anyway it was just given to me for free and who honestly doesn't like free stuff.
With a click on the button that is located at the right side of it. The screen shows up and I see that I received a message but since it was a long one I had to open it in the app. I typed in my password to unlock it. Then opened the app.
Hmm, another annoyance had just entered in and to make matters worse, it's an urgent one meaning I have to concentrate on this task rather than the latter making my schedule for today a mess.
I sigh in annoyance and closed my eyes. Massaging my temples to relieve any further stress. The annoyance will add more wrinkles to my face even though I'm not an adult yet. I sigh again, what god did I piss off this time.
After finishing my brooding I opened my eyes once again and decided to just go with it. Putting back my phone on my bag. I continued my walk to the outside.
I was now outside of Soubu and in the busy streets of the Chiba. The bus stop was on the other side on the street. So I waited for the traffic lights to go green. While waiting a crowd has now formed around me.
Now it was green it was time to go the other side, luckily the bus that I was waiting for had just arrived and so without wasting any time I picked up my pace. Grabbing my wallet, I prepared my bus card and placed it on the scanner when I entered the bus. I picked a seat on the front since it was still spacious and for convenience sake. The trip on the bus was quick and uneventful. The bus arrived at my stop and I exited.
The stop was near to my apartment unlike others who live with their parents. I opted for independence since there is no one that could bother me, also I don't know anyone that I can live with.
Oh the pain of being abandoned by your parents it hurts….. not.
Perhaps when I get enough money I could buy something like a motor bike for me to use but its too soon for me to have one.
The apartment complex was just right around the corner. The complex was just like any standard apartment building. It wasn't anything fancy or luxurious, it wasn't dirty, its just a well maintained one with a very affordable rent for me anyways.
I entered the lobby and greeted the guard then the receptionist along the way. The interior of the lobby was just like any other modern design. There is a painting on the wall which I don't recognize, there was also a vending machine here which is a plus, but they moved it outside which is annoying, and loads of indoor plants. The lounging area is modest if I do say so.
I chose the stairs since my room was just a floor above.
On the way I bumped into someone I know and he greeted me and I returned the gesture by nodding my head.
Continuing my trek to my room, I turned my head to look at the orange sky and briefly marveled at it, then I redirected back to what was ahead.
Now at the front of the door of my condominium. I Opened my wallet and fished out my room card to unlock it.
"I'm home." I muttered to myself and to no one particular.
Upon entering I was greeted by my feline companion. Lazily laying around until he spotted me. The design was just like any standard apartment room; A bathroom complete with all the equipment necessary, a very comfy bed, a sliding door for the balcony that overlooks the city but thankfully it came with curtains to provide some privacy. Besides the bed was a desk which a laptop is sitting on and a monitor was hooked up to it.
A closet for all of my clothes and what not. Next to it was a small shelf for my books with a cabinet on the bottom. There was a small kitchen with a mini fridge. And last was the couch which was currently occupied by a cat lazing around.
Rent must be expensive here you might ask but since the owner of this complex knows my supposedly 'guardians'. He gave me a discount of about fifty percent off every time I pay rent hence why I said its affordable.
Connections really do help you in the long run.
I closed the door and took off my shoes and placed it on the shoe rack.
The cat was still laying around.
Lazy cat at least try and show some respect to your owner here.
I go to my wardrobe and grabbed my special attire when I'm out on my ventures. Placing it on my bed, I took of my clothes and disposed it at the laundry bin.
I change into the outfit I picked out. It was a gray trench coat with an emblem on the right shoulder, accompanied inside was a plain white T-shirt. Along with it was a black cargo pants.
If people were to see me they would think that I'm some sort of a character from a noir film, though they aren't really far from what they think, my job was something like a detective but it is much more physical and tedious.
After changing I went to my small shelf. The shelf was occupied by a lot of books. Some where of different genres and languages but they are mostly comprised of western and eastern literature. Opening the cabinet. I grabbed a set of small pieces of paper with something scribbled into it. This scribbled paper is called an Ofuda or commonly known as paper talismans, within the Shinto religion this talismans are used for purification, exorcism, or protection.
Good at offense and defense they're the perfect weapon for my job.
I pocketed them with in my trench coat. Closed the door of the cabinet and went to the bathroom.
I entered in and washed my face on the sink.
Staring at the mirror, my reflection stared right back at me. I was feeling a bit better now than before, albeit a little. The sour mood was gone and the feeling of relaxation settles in.
I splash some more water on my face and grabbed a towel from one of the drawers. Wiping my face clean, I placed the towel on a hanger then exited the lavatory and headed to my bed to grab my wallet which I left when I changed.
But before I head off, I needed to leave some food for the lazy cat. Going to one of the cabinets in the kitchen. There was a can of cat food on the upper shelf. Opening it and dumping all of its contents to the cat's bowl. The cat must've smelled the scent of tuna because this lazy bastard was now beside me rubbing his head against my legs. I rubbed its head and left him with his food. With all of the things now taken care of I was now ready to head out.
On the shoe rack was my tennis shoes which was colored black. I still had my socks on and I inserted my feet into the shoes.
"I'll be going now." I said to the cat still focused on his food until he turned his head and shrieked at my direction, signaling me to leave already.
Geez what a stingy cat.
Walking out of his flat.
He put on his work persona.
A Park by the bay could be seen near a tower overlooking the city.
There sitting on a bench in the park built near the tower. A lone man with a very peculiar outfit resembling of a detective seen in western detective dramas, he puffs a smoke off from his tobacco. The fedora wearing man appeared to be admiring the sunset before him. His posture slouched but soon straightened as he looked at the sun setting once more. The man was feeling euphoric as he closed his eyes feeling breeze of the sea seeping into him. Such a cliche scene all the man needs to do now was to ride his motor cycle into the sunset to complete it.
Hearing the faint footsteps approaching behind him. He turns his head towards the sound coming closer to his proximity.
"You're late."
"Sorry, I would've arrived earlier if the traffic was minimal." the other person apologizes, his appearance the same as the lone man.
"Well, your only late by 20 minutes."
The lone man taps his cigarette in to the bin and threw it inside.
"Anyways.- the man fixes his coat and continues - It has been a while since we last met, Hikigaya."
"Yes it has been awhile, Yoshikage-san."
"Drop the formalities Hikigaya, I told you its okay to be casual with me." the mans stands up, towering over his companion.
For Hikigaya who was very tall measuring about 5'10 ft. This man before him was akin to a basketball athlete.
Yoshikage is a blonde man with a fairly light skin, his height is about 6'2 ft which is above average, causing others who ogle at him to assume that this man before them is a foreigner. Which in a way they aren't wrong.
His father is of European descent while his mother is a pure blooded Japanese which made him half and half. Although his appearance took after his father. The only notable feature that distinguished him from other foreigners was his eyes which was ebony like her mothers. His heavy accent also complimented his deep voice giving off a very mature presence.
"So how's your high school life treating you Hikigaya."
"Nothing out of the ordinary, there were some couple of mishaps but I took care of them."
"I heard you were caught up on an accident during your freshmen year."
"Oh that wasn't anything serious, just a careless girl and a stupid dog."
Yoshikage had a raised brows at his remark.
"Still haven't gotten rid of your selfless tendencies, Hikigaya."
Hikigaya who doesn't like where the conversation is going changes the topic to avoid delving further.
"Look, I think we should get going now considering how late I've arrived."
"You are right we've wasted enough time catching up, we'll continue this after our job."
The port of Chiba is the largest seaport in all of Japan. Located in the Chiba Prefecture on the Interior of Tokyo Bay. It is said that this port measures about 24,800 hectares spanning across the cities of Ichikawa, Funubashi, Narisho, Chiba and Sodegaura.
During the Kamakura period, port activity has existed in this area where it became one of the main livelihood from that time. By the end of the Edo period the port had an active trade in salt and grain with the port Yokohoma.
When World War 2 happened, the Chiba port sustained extensive damage due to aerial bombings by the allied forces, causing the progress and activity of the port to halt and become stagnant. After World War 2 ended the U.S. assisted Japan in rebuilding its country after their loss. One of which was the restoration of Chiba Port. In August of 1953 with the combined efforts of both countries the modern port of Chiba opened.
With this port opened, the role it played in building up Japan's Import and Export Economy became an integral part of Keiyo Industrial Zone which further developed the economy.
Chiba Port Park is a park by the bay with large open fields, trails for walking or running, and recreational activities. It's a great place to have a picnic, or just stroll around taking in views of Tokyo Bay. Many tourist could be seen during summer here. But in this month of August and in this particular day there were only quite a few people here. A couple of kids could be seen playing by the fountains. Then on the trail way a pair of joggers jogging around.
Stopping at what seems to be the entrance of a high-rise building.
They were greeted by a guard halting them and keeping them from entering the building.
"Stop, this building is under strict supervision, no outsiders are allowed to enter."
Yoshikage took the initiative.
"Good day to you sir. My name is Yoshikage Goro and with me here is my partner Hikigaya Hachiman we are from the Chiba Prefectural Police Head Quarters in the special branch." Showing our badges and identification to verify our authentication.
"We have come here as per request by the management of the tower to investigate the situation at hand residing inside."
The guard looks at them and back to their ID's making sure that they were no fraud/threat until he ordered them wait for a moment.
He grabbed his radio and contacted his superiors and they waited.
After a couple of moments the guard finished talking to the other end of the line.
"Both of you have been granted permission to enter from the higher ups, please proceed inside."
Yoshikage tips off his fedora and entered while Hikigaya nodded to the guard and followed suit.
One of Chiba's main attraction/monuments takes in the form of the Chiba Port Tower which was near the port as the name implies. Built in the 1980's The tower cross-section is lozenge shaped. The size of lozenge is not so large because Chiba Prefecture wanted to emphasize the slimness of the tower. The length of a side of this lozenge is about 49 ft. On the outside, the tower is covered with mirrored glass which reflects the sun and makes the tower appear blue in fine weather. The tower is approximately 410 ft high.
The tower overlooks almost the entirety of Chiba; In the North the Chiba City Hall can be seen, the Narita airport and the Port Square in the east, Haneda Airport, Tokyo Disney Resort, Tokyo Tower, and Yokohama Landmark Tower can be seen to the West. On clear days, Mount Fuji can also be seen. And finally, JFE Steel Corporation's Eastern Japan Ironworks, Tokyo Electric Power Company, and Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line can be seen to the South.
Truly Chiba is a one of a kind, well not really.
There were no people inside the building as the tower management has issued a week of vacancy for maintenance which was a front to hide the real reason why it closed down.
Yoshikage debriefed the things they were supposed to do.
"According to the reports gathered by the management of the tower. A strange miasma has been acting up inside the building yesterday evening. Some witnesses claimed that they saw a small creature hidden in the shadows of miasma. The witnesses that were curious enough to step inside received a severe case of hallucination and soon ran out in terror until finally passing out. After the local authorities arrived they called in a representative of the special branch and analyzed the situation. The whole perimeter has been sealed off with a bounded field. The representative attempted to investigate inside but failed to do so. Therefore an urgent request was forwarded to HQ and we were sent to deal with this."
"I see, so basically what you're saying is that we need to find and eliminate this supposed creature causing this miasma according to the reports."
"Well if you put it that way, it will seem like were just a bunch of hitmen hired to kill something which we aren't."
Yoshikage dismisses his blunt assessment.
"Of course as a form of authority we must apprehend this creature and help them by providing the security that they needed."
"By that you mean, capture them and hide their existence from the outside world."
"Exactly." Hikigaya gave him a deadpan stare.
The tower is four stories high. The first floor is the entrance. There is a shop that sells goods related to Chiba and an exhibition room that explains the role of Chiba Port. Also, there is a theater and a kid's room.
The second floor is the view room which is at a height of 344 ft. There is a wall painting "Aqua Fantasy" painted with special luminous paint called After sunset, the painting is lit up by a black light, and the mysterious submarine view looks three-dimensional.
The third floor is the view coffee shop "Café La Plage" which is at a height of 358 ft. There are 50 seats and visitors are able to eat and drink looking a fine scenery. Also, they are able to reserve it for a wedding or a party.
The fourth floor is the main observation floor which is at 371 ft. It is the best view point of the tower. There is an open space between the first floor and the second floor. Therefore, visitors are able to see the scenery of the sea while taking the elevator.
At the top of the tower, there is a system called dynamic damper. It is about 15 tons and it moves in the direction opposite to the direction in which the main body of the tower shakes, so that it decreases the shake of the main body of the tower. Therefore, it protects the tower from earthquakes and the strong wind.
The two entered and was greeted together with the uncomfortable silence and an unpleasant feeling of danger.
"It'll be hard to pinpoint the exact location of this creature so we'll split up. I'll go check the first and second floor while you go to the third and fourth."
Hikigaya nodded at him.
"We'll meet back here at the entrance once we finished checking every nook and cranny."
The elevator was in maintenance and the only way to go up to the other floors were the stairs.
Now at the third floor after climbing the stairs.
The chairs and table were in disarray. The place looked like it had been mobbed by criminals.
Hikigaya walks inside the cafe and inspected the whole place.
Closing his eyes he inhaled, his senses started to sharpen. His eyesight was much more clearer and his hearing improved to the point that he can hear the sound of a pin dropping. Then he exhaled while opening his eyes.
What Hikigaya did was a miracle to those not indulged in the art of magic. This is not the magic tricks seen at birthday parties but literal magic that can make fire out of thin air. Magic that can let you fly take you to the sky and so fort.
The use of magic requires an energy source just like how vehicles need fuel as their energy source. The energy source used for magic is called mana or magical energy. In video games typically mana is an element given to characters within a role-playing or video game that indicates their power to use special magical abilities or "spells". Magic is usually measured in magic points or mana points, shortened as MP. Different abilities will use up different amounts of MP.
But unlike in video games there were no status screens that can indicate how much mana you have. Measuring mana is very hard to do for beginners. The experienced once can measure their own reserves by using their spells and counting how many times it takes until all their mana is depleted.
Its basically the idea of knowing your limits.
Just like how cars need to refuel when they ran out of gas. Mana also needs to be replenished either by resting or by drinking mana potions. Those who try and use magic without any mana left will suffer severe consequences like mental strain and body fatigue.
After checking the third floor and came up with nothing.
Hikigaya proceeded to the next floor which was the observation deck.
There was nothing out of the ordinary and so with that he came back down to the first floor.
On the way on coming down on the stairs. Hikigaya, in the corner of his eye saw something move towards to inside the cafe.
Preparing his talismans for an incoming contact. He moved forward and inside the cafe. Seeing the creature before made him hesitant to continue.
For before him sitting in one of the chairs was a little girl munching on some yakisoba bread.
Wearing a large ribbon on her hair with cherry hair pins and a dress-like blouse. Her blonde hair sways around as she continues to munch in her bread. Still not noticing the person watching her.
Hikigaya wasn't sure on what to do in this kind situation. But he steels his nerves and pressed with a plan at hand. Appearances could be deceiving so he must proceed with caution.
"Oi little girl." he catches the little girl's attention.
"Kyaa!" The girl squealed.
'Never mind this girl is just a ditz, probably not a threat considering the lack of magical presence' he thought
After seeing the person before him, she hid behind the chair shivering and decides too peek out but after seeing his eyes once again she took cover.
He could still see the huge ribbon.
"M-mr. Youkai please don't eat me!"
'The hell how did she come up with that conclu-' Hikigaya realizes what she's thinking
'Again with the eyes, that's the second time this day' his eyes rolled at the thought.
"Look girl despite my appearance. I am not a youkai."
"So you're not a youkai mister?
Hikigaya nodded at her as sign of reassurance.
"If you say so."
The girl despite being clouded doubt still trusted his word as they had a sense of sincerity. Still she continues to hide and a munching sound was heard.
"Sorry to interrupt you but you're coming with me."
"Why would I come with you, a stranger."
'Does this girl have a death wish or something' a strained smile appears on Hikigaya.
"Because this area is off limits, so come with me, now." He doesn't know the reason why this girl was here, one thing for sure, he doesn't want this girl to get in his way.
"Nu-uh your creepy mister."
Unbeknownst to the two.
Fog started to appear and surrounds the area bit by bit.
Hikigaya sensing the impending danger quickly decides to just yank the girl out of her hiding spot.
The girl struggles for a bit but relented, Hikigaya calms her down.
"H-hey mister there's some bad energy coming from that fog."
The girl hid behind Hikigaya.
"Hey kid go to the first floor and find a man named Yoshikage tell him there's trouble here."
"No way its too scary." she cried in protest.
Without wasting any time Hikigaya casted a spell on the girl making her shine for a bit.
"That was a stealth spell that I used on to you kid. Nothing will notice you meaning no one will scare you."
The girl was reassured and finally accepts the request with a nod before leaving a question.
"Will you be fine mister?"
"I'll be fine so hurry up and go!"
The girl dashed away into the stairs and descended.
It was Hikigaya alone in the cafe filled with fog that started to consume the entire floor.
A creature shrouded in darkness emerged within the fog and attempted to tackle and devour Hikigaya
Thanks to his quick reflexes, he was able to dodge the tackle and immediately threw one of his talismans.
The talisman found its mark on the head of the creature as the darkness begins to dissipate.
The creature tried to pry off the talisman but Hikigaya threw more and soon its body was littered with talismans.
~[Phantasm Sign "Seal of the Lusus Naturae"]~
The creature was unable to move any further as the effect of the spell restrained its movements.
Hikigaya now had the time to inspect his newfound captive as he was too focused to notice. And to his surprise it was another girl.
She has red eyes and short blonde hair. She wore a black vest and skirt, and white blouse with a red tie bordered by two large red beads around her neck. She also has small red ribbon tied to the left side of her hair, but upon further inspection the ribbon was actually an ofuda.
"Hey mister can you let me out please." the girl was cute and Hikigaya was almost tempted to do so until he remembered that he had a job to do.
"Considering that you almost devoured me moments ago, how about no."
She pouted at him cutely like a puppy, it was clearly an attempt to persuade him.
'That trick wont work on me this time.' Hikigaya thought triumphantly.
He smirks at his captured foe and said captured foe continues to pout then tries to wiggle out but gave up.
Foot steps were heard coming from the stairs.
"Hikigaya! I'm here to help apprehend th-" Yoshikage saw Hikigaya with the pinned down girl.
"It would seem that you had already dealt with it."
"So it would seem."
The girl who was sent to find Yoshikage soon arrived.
"How are you able to climb that fast!" she spoke with heavy pants in between.
Hikigaya ignored the girl who he now dubbed as Red Ribbon, he turns his attention the girl he held captive.
"So girl with strange magic, what's your name."
"My names Rumia and I'm a Youkai."
Hearing the word Youkai once again, the girl with the moniker Red Ribbon immediately hides behinds Yoshikage and cowers in fear.
Hikigaya continued his interrogation.
"I assume you are the one who released all this miasma."
"Yep!" she gleefully answered
"Is it possible for you to call it off."
"I would but I need something in return."
Hikigaya contemplates on just finishing her off with one of his spell but remembers that they were to capture her only and not kill her also all of his other spells except the one he used earlier were lethal and destructive that could possibly not only kill her but could cause collateral damage ruining the point of their job which he face expulsion, and he doesn't want that.
He was listening intently while Yoshikage was busy attempting to calm the girl with red ribbon down.
"You see mister I'm very hungry and I really want something eat."
'I have a bad feeling about this' Hikigaya thought and broke into a stance fearing the worst that could happen.
His guts were right as the girl named Rumia broke free from her entrapment. He tried to take her down once again by throwing his talismans at her but she dodged all of them.
She was floating upwards and was giggling like a lunatic.
"Hey mister look at me! I'm free!" she boldly proclaims as if to mock them
Bullets made of mana started to appear as she spreads her arms wide forming a T-pose?
This bullets were called magic bullets. A mana condensed bullet. If this bullets were to hit a normal human they would suffer 3rd degree burns, it may not kill instantly even if one were hit in the vital spots but the agonizing pain will make one suffer from it. It is deadly to those without any protection against this magical attacks.
~[Moon Sign "Moonlight Ray"]~
Suddenly two bright laser shot out aiming at Hikigaya and co.
Taking a hit or even shielding against it is useless as it would lead to fate even worse than getting shot by a sniper rifle so their only viable option was to dodge.
The three of them jumped out from the way of the incoming laser. Hikigaya jumped to the left while Yoshikage who was cradling Red Ribbon jumped to the right.
The stairs was being blocked by a magical barrier made of darkness ruining the chances of them escaping from the youkai. So the option for fight or flight turned into fight only.
Hikigaya weighs in his options
'Close quarter combat is bad since she can just fly away.'
A bullet almost hit him but he ducked and rolled away.
'I could use a null talisman to temporarily incapacitate her but I only have two of this'
With his back turned to one of the tables that flipped over, he took cover from the barrage of deadly magical bullets.
A switch flipped in his brain.
Yoshikage was still holding on to Red Ribbon whilst she tightly cling into him, tears were forming as she quietly sobs into his chest. They were stuck from one of tables as they took cover from the assault. Still Yoshikage returns the favour by shooting magical lasers from his fingertips in which his hand was formed to mimic a handgun on his right though it proved to be fruitless as the would be bearer dodged with ease and elegance.
Coincidentally the situation the two were in aligned with one his plans.
Hikigaya decides to take the youkai's attention and act as bait.
He leaped off from his previous position and came to the open leaving him vulnerable from the assault.
Yoshikage saw this and immediately read Hikigaya's intention. He chanted a short spell which temporarily boosts once speed and acts as a buff. His right hand opens and redirected aiming it at Hikigaya then a small magic circle appeared.
Hikigaya felt this buff as he moved swiftly and dodged all bullets with ease.
'Thanks for the assist Yoshikage!' He mentally thanked his companion.
Rumia was starting to get annoyed as her attacks were not yielding any results. So she increased the intensity. Creating even more bullets and forming sunburst like bullets and spreads them on an orthodox manner.
Hikigaya is human and humans have limits. He can't keep on dodging forever he needed to rest to regain his stamina or take the offensive to gain the advantage but that seems to unlikely. No what he wanted to do was create a window of opportunity and luckily all he needed to do was land one of his null talismans.
The null talisman is a kind of amulet that can deter one's magical powers for a brief amount of time. It's appearance is a small gemstone attached to several chains.
A magical laser grazed him at his shoulder leaving it burnt but not tattered. This suit that he wore had some magical properties imbued in it giving it some protection against magical attacks to an extent.
Another laser fired at him forcing him to go in front of the assaulter.
Seizing the chance of getting closer. He let out a heavy pant and threw his null talismans to his target and rolled away at an incoming bullet.
Unfortunately for Rumia, even though she had the chance to dodge. One found its way on her. The null talisman hanging on her blouse.
She was bewildered judging by the expression shes showing
All of her attacks began to disappear and the magical barriers she set up broke down rendering her vulnerable.
~[Spirit Sign "Spirit Gun"]~
Unlike earlier when Yoshikage fired of his magical finger gun were the energy it used was mana. Concentrated spirit energy are utilized into his hand, just like his attacks previously. It released through his finger tips and taking in the form of a blast.
A blue beam of concentrated spirit energy blasted and went past through Hikigaya. The spell had lit up whole floor . Their visions filled with pure alabaster from the illumination of the spell.
Rumia who was still incapacitated could only watch as she was confronted by a blast coming at her. She tried to scramble away but could only manage a few centimeters as the spell hit her. Engulfing her entire body. The three watched as she was being consumed by the destruction of the blast.
Yoshikage who is still holding on to Red Ribbon on his left while his right hand still in his finger gun position but with a magic circle appearing on point of his finger tips looked with cross-eyed at the scenery.
Red Ribbon watched in awe despite her earlier state. She shoots a glance at Yoshikage, her eyes filled with great admiration and respect.
Meanwhile Hikigaya was laying on the ground after he rolled away from the incoming bullets.
'Nice shot Yoshikage! Your ripoff of a spell from a certain saiyan's attack landed but I doubt were still finished yet.' Mentally thanking his peer for partaking in his plan.
The spectacle only lasted for a moment before the spell's duration finished, dissolving into specks of blue dusts.
It was unclear if the shooting down had any effect on the youkai as the smokescreens caused by the diminished their line of sight.
"Hikigaya! are you alright?"
Yoshikage called out to him checking if his partner was alright.
He was met with a quick reply severing all of his doubts and worries.
"Ye, I'm alright."
Hikigaya stood up and brushed of the dust from his coat. Fixing his coat he checked his remaining armaments.
One null talisman and a handful of ofudas were all there is left.
He checks on the youkai that was believed to be down.
A black orb enough to engulf an entire human shut past through Hikigaya.
Yoshikage gathered his bearings and shot another spell at her as an attempt to bring her down. Frustration welled up on him as the big mass of ball dodged his beam.
He could only watch as the black orb flew past him heading to the stairs.
'Shit! She got away!' realizing it was the youkai who escaped he attempted to pursue but the spell that was casted on him wears off.
This has not gone unnoticed by Yoshikage as he once again buffed Hikigaya with the same spell he used earlier.
"Go and chase her! I'll catch up when I'm ready.
Yoshikage was clearly exhausted from using his spells.
Looking back at the one who gave him the boost.
Hikigaya nodded at him.
Then he let loose his speed leaving a trail of mana behind as he went for the stairs.
The fourth and final floor of the Chiba port tower was the observation deck. The view on this floor was a sight to behold. It overlooks the sea and the cities. During night the lights that was visible on the city gives of a colorful imagery. Although it wasn't at the top of the building as it was being occupied by another contraption, it still brings the feeling an open field like observation deck.
The floor was empty to accommodate would be visitors of the tower. It was great for Hikigaya since there will be no more damage done to the property. So there was no point of him holding back.
He arrived at the entrance of the final floor.
Rumia was still doing a T-pose on the middle.
The moon was now out illuminating the shadows within the floor.
All was silent as tension arose.
No one dared to move until the youkai spoke out.
"Mister are you a lolicon? "
Now that question caught him off guard. But still he kept his cool not showing any weaknesses.
The girl pouts at him as he her gave no reaction whatsoever.
"I'm too lazy to be a lolicon little girl."
"You keep on pursuing me, what is it that you want from me." She was clearly agitated.
'This was bad,' Hikigaya thought, the Youkai looked like she was about to cry.
"How about we play a game."
"What kind of game?"
"A game of tag, but I doubt you'll win this."
She pouted at him and reaching the limits of her patience then she giggles like a maniac.
"Mister do you know why I exist." her red eyes gleams in luminescence as she watched the moon.
"It's because attacking humans is a Youkai's job."
She spins around like a ballerina while still maintaining her T-pose. Her skirt and blouse swayed at the movement.
Hikigaya can't help but admire the girl before him. She was beautiful and cute under the Luna.
She stops and bows at him while showing here smile, her eyes was filled with sorrow, the smile she gave was melancholic.
His emotions inside clashed. He read her body and her expressions, finding that it was genuine. The feeling of despair evident. But still he did not waver. Succumbing to his own emotions will lose his focus on his objective.
"Hey mister doesn't it look like I'm being crucified." With that said she activated another spell.
~[Night Sign "Night Bird"]~
Magical bullets of cyan and blue appeared beside her, the blue bullets were spreading away from her like flapping her wings which was made of bullets.
The way the bullets flowed was designed to hit the target in unexpected areas. Then it was the cyan bullets turn to join in.
It would have hit anyone who was not fast enough to dodge all of them but the man she targeted was just built different.
She continues her alternating flaps of bullet wings.
The spell lasted for quite a while.
Hikigaya dodged all of them but he was not without reprimands. His coat that protected him from the grazes of the bullets were showing sign of tears. The coats protective properties were starting to wear out.
Finishing her spell, she was disappointed to see her attacks fail once again.
So she another did another spell in an attempt to finish him once and for all.
~[Darkness Sign "Dark Side of the Moon"]~
A red magic circle appeared behind her.
Red bullets manifested and she disappears. The bullets were unorthodox instead of the usual pattern like her earlier attacks.
Hikigaya was focused on dodging this floating landmines. Leaving him unaware on the whereabouts of the youkai.
There were no more red bullets targeting him as they began to fade.
He was not sure were the girl went.
Then suddenly a big white orb had just appeared out of nowhere and aimed at him. He was spared by his quick reflexes paired with that spell that was on effect giving him an advantage.
'She appeared when the white orbs attack. This could only mean one thing.'
Invisibility is a very scary effect. It is very hard to deal with to those without any spacial awareness and good hearing. They say humans has the instinct to feel the threat just by presence alone. So with this finding he quickly took out one of his ofuda and ripped it apart.
The ofuda also acts as a charm that can give the bearer a slight boost when used on ones self.
Hikigaya felt his body senses honed. His eyesight were sharpened as he can now see the faint magical circle the youkai was residing in. And his ears hears the faint sounds of bullets firing clearly as if they were right in his vicinity.
Another barrage of red bullets appeared as she once again disappears.
Weaving to the right and then to the left then dashing away from it.
He still could not see the youkai but the faint magic circle gave away her position.
Seizing this opportunity. He threw all of his ofudas at the unsuspecting youkai.
The youkai was surprised as she was hit by the ofudas.
Before she could utilize her spell. Hikigaya prepared the null talisman gripping on its chains then threw it at her letting go of it.
She was left vulnerable as her magic circle wears off together with the invisibility effect.
Hikigaya leaped behind the weakened youkai. If one were to see this he looked like he teleported behind her.
He delivered a swift but deadly chop on her neck.
Thud
The girl was now on the ground facing the concrete as she was knocked out.
Hikigaya checks if the girl was alive. Fortunately she was but that attack lead her to be unconscious.
Taking a breather now that the battle is over. His shallow breathes was the only thing that could be heard on the silent floor.
Picking up the girl, he slings her over his shoulder.
He grunted and looked at the moon with an unreadable expression.
'The moon….. fucking sucks.' mentally cursing at the gray matter that illuminated the earth
With the battle over he heads down the stairway.
The two that were left behind had finally caught up to him just as he was about to descend. They talked for a while and soon departed from the fourth floor.
The miasma was now gone. With that gone their job was finally over. All that's left to do was clean up the whole place.
At the entrance of the first floor. Hikigaya drank a can of MAX coffee that was offered to him by the clean up crew. Sitting on the bench and slouching pondering and reflecting on the things that happened.
His pondering only lasted for a while as he noticed the chatter of the two familiar individuals approaching.
"Yoshikage-san have you seen how Hikigaya-san moved so fast! He was like a ninja!" gone was the scared little girl, it was replaced with an energetic and annoying one.
Yoshikage sighs at the girls antic "That's not really what we should be focusing on and you ignored my question again."
"Hehehe." she giggles at him.
Turning his attention to the one sitting on the bench.
"So how'd you fair against that youkai."
"It was nothing much."
"Come on no need to be humble."
".…."
"Seriously though, was it hard to fight her all alone."
"Not really once you figure out her attacks everything becomes predictable."
"Damn I need to step up. You teenagers are catching up to us." he snickered at him
The youkai girl named Rumia was seen strapped on a stretcher. She was being transferred to an ambulance but it's destination was different.
A man came up to the three and asked for an initial report on what happened.
Hikigaya wanted to just jump in to the soft comfy bed and so he excused himself .
"Well you deserved it so go ahead."
Yoshikage and Red Ribbon bids farewell to Hikigaya as he leaves them behind.
Opening the door of his room he says.
"I'm back"
He was now inside at his apartment room which was now dark as it was evening so he turned on the lights. Taking his shoes off and locking the door. His lazy feline companion was now sound asleep on the couch.
'Cats sure do have it easy huh.'
The cat turned turned around trying to find the sweet spot.
'I wish I was a cat.'
He envied the life of the cat for he dreamed of living his days in peace without the world bothering him, but he could only dwell at the thought.
He sighed as he stretched out his body. He suddenly remembered something.
'I still haven't gotten the name of Red Ribbon girl... Oh well.'
Scratching his bum. He turns off the light and without any care of his present appearance he dived on his bed.
With a thud, he planted his face directly on the pillow and his body on the bed as the desire of slumber overtook his very being.
He was fast asleep despite wearing his coat. But still sleep is more important than anything at that moment for him.
