Logic Is My Sword

by Itherael

It's often said that one person's insanity is another person's reality, and believing such was improbable. But if you were to reach a junction where self-delusion and insanity are the only choices left to take, what else can you be expected to do? Simple, defy the irrational world by choosing the path of logic, for I refuse to compromise my principles for the sake of convenience.

3. Rumors

Welcome once more. This chapter came moderately faster, taking into account how much it usually takes me to update, so yeah, you can thank my unofficial co-writer of this story: NirvanaFrk97, who also happens to be my beta reader.

Now, some dates may differ for some of the other participating shows for the sake of this story. While the story behind some characters is just beginning, like for Lala and Belldandy, others had already started and may be rather advanced.

As always, the cover has been updated. Use my profile to gain access to the profile of the story, so you can access the links to the pics and music for this chap-

*Dark Spirit: bEtAreAdEr invades the A/N*

Praise me dammit! I was responsible for the Prologue's improvements and I completely remade Itherael's initial Chapter 1! Now I'm stuck writing the beginning of Chapter 2! Where's my tha-..!

*Record Scratch*

...

Hello and welcome back to Logic is My Sword. This chapter was pretty tough for me, NirvanaFrk97, to write this time around. No worries, I had my faithful Beta-Reader, Itherael, here to back me up and give you this great cha-...

*Dark Spirit: bEtAreAdEr has been banished*

Right… Where was I? Oh, yeah, let's get to the review response section.

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JerichoCross: Well, even back when I started my first story, I meant to do it like a light novel, which is the reason I make the pictures. We'll see more of Bell-Lala soon enough.

SaphireHeart: Well, someone had to make it happen.

Calvados: They are, and well, the service club is not the same Hachiman knew, so...

AndyBurgundy: I like Kiyotaka too, and that crazy gambler. Yep, that purplette will appear soon enough, so wait 4 it. Well this chapter came faster so, here you go.
Harco8059: You know my friend, Hachiman will eventually say: "This is way too much!" So yeah, you can imagine.

SilentXD7: Thanks man, I appreciate it.

jam99chgo: She's best girl, huh? Maybe in this world she is, who knows? You bet she's gonna have a lot of screen time in the future. Meaning future headaches for Hachiman.

EiNyx: Thanks, good sir. I share the same thought, Hachiman is unique and interesting. My beta helped me capture his personality, so I have to thank him. (He says talking to me is like speaking to Hikigaya. -NirvanaFrk97)

TheLaughingStalker: Insanity will come sooner than expected. OCs? Well, considering how many characters from other shows are appearing, I don't think so. Maybe a few NPCs. XD

Aquaquaqua: Thanks man, knowing people enjoy what I put in this page makes me want to write more, you know? Surprise though, here's another update for you!

shiroryuu012: Thanks man, and I agree. Ayanokoji will be a good rival.

Lord Alania: Thanks for the support. It's good to know that. I actually thought that too, you know? Children tend to be influenced by their parents, so why not him? Well, there are plenty, but not that much. There are more than ten I assure you, and yeah, Hachiman can destroy them all XD

glk: That's actually a nice idea! I may use it if you don't mind. I agree, those two together could be a lot of fun. (Don't expect a royalty check though. -NirvanaFrk97)

Curima: No problem, amigo. Good to know the links work now, and thanks 4 telling me. Gracias por el apoyo! (*Laughing in Spanish* -NirvanaFrk97)

MALT T: Indeed, my friend.

MorningStar: Here's the update!

Guest: It's a certain popular yandere, and she will appear again soon.

Manoroth: Thanks!

Arcane Valor: Difficulty creates great stories, or that's what I think.

Neo Fan: Well, I love that too. Being evil feels soooo good sometimes. Cool you catch that.

Epic Snow: Well, be sure to follow the story so you can discover how that'll happen. Hachiman is Hachiman so it should be that way, don't you think?

12345: Thanks, man. I'm not gonna lie, it's hard, and it will get harder, but I have a clear direction to where I'm gonna lead this story, so for the sake of it, I'll do my best. (Plus he has me to help him out. -NirvanaFrk97)

The End Game: Why, thank you.

Sweet Lulu-chan: When they reach that stage, we'll have to see. Eh, Lala is not that bad, and I assure you Hachiman will make her show that she's not a… that.

CacciaFulmini: Good to hear I managed to portray them well. Haha, that's an interesting impression of their encounter. So just PM what songs you'd like to find, and I'll be glad to help.

Soul Titan: My beta and me appreciate your support. Thanks and keep reading!

Dark Durian: Yes, poor bastard. Though, I somehow envy him… meh.

kbzas: Hearing that from you, my good author and friend, is certainly good. Thanks for the detailed PM review.

Sven Vollfield: Wow, ok. NirvanaFrk97 helped a lot in improving the story so yeah. Well, there's not much I can say but, hell yeah! If you liked every aspect of this chapter, then I assume this story is going smoothly. Seriously though, I appreciate your thoughts.

Mememan: Ehhhh… who knows?

Mokkel: Thanks, man.

Supreme King of all Kings: *I bow to the audience, flattered. NirvanaFrk97 drags me away with a cane.*

Mokkel: Miura, huh? Well, this chapter definitely gives her that chance. You'll know what I'm talking about once you reach the bottom. Well, Deus did give him gifts, and you'll know what I'm talking about after you finish this chapter. No powers but maybe a bit of help, yeah.

It was fun having Belldandy and Lala interacting with him. I'm not gonna lie, it was difficult, but before I realized it, it came out naturally. In all, thanks for the insight, and about the first PS, then look forward to the chapter below.

WhiteHero: Here is more!

Ena-Ena Till It Hurts: You make my heart aflutter. The same goes for by beta. (NirvanaFrk97: You exaggerate on my part…)

Lady Dalila: I'm happy to hear that.

Paodan17: Thanks for the constructive criticism. Great that you liked the story so far, and as for the stand, that actually is an interesting idea, however, for what I have in mind, I'm afraid that having a stand would divert the original plot. Thanks for the suggestion though. Hope this story continues interesting you, my friend. Ty 4 the sup.

Flash Falcon: We meet again. Thanks for your kind words. Here's another update.

The Silent Champion: *Thumbs up*

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Now, without further ado, let's get to it. Enjoy.

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Logic is My Sword

Chapter 02 – As Always, Rumors and Miura Yumiko Do Not Get Along

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2-0

Rumors are an odd thing.

They could be considered tall tales of events circulating from person to person inside certain environments, usually pertaining to an object, event, person, or an issue of public concern. Most of the time these involve some sort of statement whose veracity isn't quickly, if ever, confirmed. I can only think of two reasons why they start: the lack of information, or disinformation of the truth.

The former is simply a misunderstanding that spirals out control, the latter is something much, much worse.

Rumors of disinformation are formed with the sole intent to damage a person's reputation. Should it be because they're found 'mysterious,' 'sketchy,' or 'standoffish'; usually completely disregarding whether or not the person deserves it. It's all pathetic if you ask me, and yet another horrible aspect of the blight that is youth.

It is said that rumors last 75 days, but I doubt that's really true. It's mostly likely said as a form of comfort for sufferers to delude themselves into thinking rumors are actually harmless. Rumors are really damaging in reality as they can destroy your social status, lead to relentless bullying, and destroy whatever credibility you may have held before.

Source: M-… Wait, I wouldn't actually know about this.

A-anyway, while I haven't necessarily suffered from rumors throughout my life as a student, people tended to tell me my faults explicitly. However, I have seen the effects they have on others. For example, the situation with the chain messages back a few months ago had minor effects on Tobe's social standings. Those other two side characters also suffered through it but they're too unimportant to matter. Wait, doesn't that imply that Tobe matters more? No, not really, he's just too loud to ignore…

Back to my original point, since Tobe was accused of being a delinquent, there were some students who would purposefully avoid him in our very classroom. Even weeks after, a lingering number of classmates were intimidated by his presence and rude mannerisms. Of course, since Tobe was such an idiot, he was completely oblivious to his slight ostracization. But if such a minor rumor that was never expanded upon had such consequences even after time passed, then what can one expect from an ever growing rumor?

True suffering honestly. When a rumor is taken seriously and spread throughout the student body, it is open to additional corruption and degradation. What does this mean exactly? It means that rumors can be altered as they spread until only 10% of the original intent is left. Take it this way, say a rumor is started over someone's looks.

"Hey, have you seen that H-something-kun? He looks so creepy(lol)?"

"Right? He totally has fish-eyes."

"Really?"

Hmm, something about this particular example seems off… Whatever, say that's how the rumor starts. Innocent enough, one insult, nothing major. This, let's call him H-kun, has fish eyes.

"Hey, hey. I heard that H-whatever guy was raised by a fish."

"Really? That's probably why he has eyes like that(lol).

Huh, there's something about this hypothetical that pisses me off… Anyways, now instead of fish-eyes being H-kun's main problem, it's that he was apparently raised by a fish instead.

"Have you heard that Creepy-kun's actually part fish?"

"Seriously? With eyes like that it's no wonder(lol)."

Who the hell is 'Creepy-kun'? This is seriously pissing me off already… And so, the poor unfortunate H-kun is now seen as a fish-humanoid existence, with his eyes becoming an afterthought.

"Have you heard about H-kun?"

"Who the heck is H-kun?"

Hoh… Can't even remember m-… Wait a minute… Did I just start a rumor about myself!? It wasn't me dammit! I'm not H-kun!

…

Well, as seen here by this completely-unrelated-to-me-example, the rumor began with the look of his eyes, and gradually devolved until his eyes somehow proved how H-kun was part fish. The last one was clearly unrelated to the example. Yep, it had nothing to do with it at all.

Rumors were indeed a very scary thing. They can start as minor annoyances and then rapidly evolve into this festering existence that can destroy everything you had. Not unlike a disease really. At least you can avoid diseases that can affect you to a certain degree; try as you might, you can't entirely avoid people(lol).

Source: M-... H-kun. We salute you for your sacrifice H-kun!

So as seen here, these kind of rumors are a disgusting creation, and are pointlessly damaging. They stem from either jealousy, or fear of the unknown and destroy the credibility of those usually innocent. The people who start them remain anonymous while the victim finds themselves in an irrecoverable situation and has their entire social life ruined. A perfect outcome for the instigators.

However there are exceptions of sorts to this. The rumor involving Yukinoshita Yukino and Hayama Hayato being in a relationship didn't really damage the two of them on a personal level. Their images took momentary blows, no doubt, Hayama was stuck with rejecting countless confessions and Yukinoshita was judged as 'unworthy' of that idiot but they, mostly Hayama, only showed frustration at the troublesome existence of such a rumor. While I couldn't care less what Hayama had gone through, I had been somewhat worried for Yukinoshita. Though she did show annoyance at how ridiculous the rumor was, her cold response to Isshiki's digging showed that she didn't particularly care to play along with it. So I suppose the rumor didn't really bother her. And by using Miura's and Isshiki's names after winning the marathon, he managed to clear the rumor as a mere misunderstanding, while also preventing anything personal from progressing. A perfect solution for the 'Perfect Prince of Sobu'.

But aside from this specific occurrence, rumors are still a dangerous thing. The mere thought of trying to end them is delusional, much less trying to control them as they use people's own perspective and morbid curiosity to expand like a virulent virus.

My conclusion? Youth is a shitty existence. So hurry up and blow up already.

2-1

Ugh…

I'm not sure if it's because I slept later than usual because of the drama of deciding the sleeping arrangements among the girls, or because my precious sleep was interrupted, but I don't feel fully rested. Actually, I feel like I'm susceptible to a migraine at a moment's notice because of the headache that was last night. I slowly open my eyes to see the soft glow of the sun barely rising entering my room. It's early, too early dammit. It's fine I guess, I do need a shower after yesterday's debacle and some time to think I guess.

"Mmm…" Yeah, my bed's really com-

Wait a second, didn't I sound too girly? No, that wasn't my voice.

"Hachiman…" No, that clearly wasn't me. And it wasn't the same voice I heard in Chiba Village, this one was even more feminine. Was that even possible? Could Totsuka actually not have the cutest voice ever!? That's blasphemy!

Or so I think, but my eyes snapped open after my name is whispered.

It couldn't be, right? There's no way I could wake up to this sort of cliché. The Gods of Romantic Comedy aren't so considerate to give me this, right!? I slowly turn around to my right, towards the source of the voice, my rapidly beating heart being the only indication that I was indeed awake. I feel a large sense of dread come over me as I face the voice.

"Mmm…"

…Are you serious? Could it be that this was just a cruel prank by the Rom-Com Gods? Were they trying to get my hopes up only to cruelly tear them down!? How dare you bastards play with my pure heart!

I'm careful to not recklessly yelp and wake up this intruder and make this situation even more awkward, but… Just what is with this embarrassing situation!? Wait, wait. Tone it down, Hachiman, you're better than those lame harem protagonists flooding the anime industry right now. Learn from their stupid mistakes and don't fall into this trap.

I take a calming breath. Okay, first thing I should do is get out of bed. Slowly I begin to maneuver my way to the edge of the bed as to not awaken this clear intruder. What I failed to realize though was that I had nothing to support me once I got there. So I find myself stumbling ungracefully off the bed, managing to hit my head on the floor amidst my drop.

Ow, ow, ow! Damn it… so much for a not-lame reaction on my part. Could it be that those harem protagonists' reactions are actually based off of reality!?

Unfortunately for me, my crash landing seemed to rouse my unwelcome invader from her sleep. Perfect…

"Mmm…? Hachiman? What's wrong?" The invader, Lala Satalin Deviluke smiles at me as she continues to lay on the bed. She was a recently arrived pink-haired alien who destroyed my room last night, only one of the many crazy things that's happened in the new reality I live in. Crazy, I know. Alas, it did happen. Aside from that…

Hey, excuse me? That bed's not yours, you know? Actually, that's not even the problem right now…

"…What are you doing here?" I grunt out, fully expecting a stupid answer.

"What do you mean? I was sleeping with you, silly…" Yep, I was right. That's a completely stupid answer. So much for intelligent life forms outside our planet. Well, that might be a bit unfair to our other visitor. She's not too bad.

But really, that wasn't what I had meant at all idiot. Why did I even bother to ask? This annoying existence was supposed to to be asleep with that goddess in our guestroom… Stupid alien. I recall that Deviluke was even excited about experiencing a 'human' sleepover for the first time. So how the heck did she wind up here?

"Why are you on the floor, Hachiman? …Ah, Hachiman looks so cute with his hair all messy, hehe…" I look at her face, and I instinctively avoid meeting her gaze. She sported a teasing smile that held some sort of intimidating power… I couldn't really explain it, but it was as scary, in a different way of course, to Haruno-san's.

"Tch… What do you think?" I grumble and she giggles in response, "I just thought the ground looked more comfortable than the bed." I add sarcastically, purposefully ignoring the last comment of hers for defensive purposes.

What a scary girl though, casually saying something like that. What would you have done if I got the wrong idea there? Honestly… I can't even catch a break in the morning, and in my own room no less. Hah… Is this what harem protagonists feel in these situations? I suppose they deserve at least a modicum of pity. They're still mostly idiots though.

The image of Yuuki springs to my mind for some reason.

I narrow my gaze, noticing her… curves under the sheet. Geez, maybe I should just suffer a heart attack and end this nightmare at once.

When Deviluke begins to sit up, I catch a sliver of what I think is her bare shoulder. I immediately turn away from her, my mind going into overdrive. Wasn't she supposed to be wearing a camisole or something? It was modest, right? And did a good job in covering her deceptively well-proportioned figure, right? Maybe it was a trick of the light, it could have just been her arm that I saw. Yeah, that was it… hopefully.

I slowly turn back to look at her and freeze. There she was, my blanket barely covering her figure that was indeed bare as she shamelessly stretched and yawned. The thin piece of bedding covered her left shoulder but diagonally revealed her right side. Luckily(?) for my poor heart, her… right asset, was shielded from my sights. But I was barely left any sort of room for imagination as to what lies beneath that thin cloth. No, wait! That's not the issue here! I rapidly turn away from Deviluke, my face feeling as though it's suddenly become engulfed in flames.

"W-why are you naked?" I barely manage to choke out.

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Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 02Section: Song 01

Go to profile, SEE: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 02Section: Picture 01

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"Well, I usually sleep like this, Hachiman," She giggles after her reply. What sort of answer is that!? Are you stupid? You are, aren't you!? "You should, too. Teehee!"

This girl…

How the hell do you think that's a good idea!? I hazard a glance at her, Deviluke was now giving me a coy look, I immediately turn back around. The heart pounding event… is real! I'm going to die if this continues! Cut that out this instant, stupid alien!

"Besides, Peke is still recovering, so I don't want to bother her much." She extend a hand at me, "Come here, Hachiman. It's still early…"

So Peke was actually female then… Oh, now that I think about it, Deviluke did mention last night that Peke actually was in charge of dressing her. She'd probably trust a girl with that sort of thing. Argh, what the hell am I getting distracted for? Mentally running away doesn't mean I escaped the physical world.

"…Are you stupid? Why the hell would I do that? Actually, why are you in my room? You were three doors down!" This was the second time that I was in an enclosed room with a naked female in the span of one day. How am I supposed to handle this!?

"Well, you know…" As she speaks, I can hear Deviluke moving over the bed, but I kept my gaze away from her, "I was thirsty, so I got up during the night to get a glass of water. But then I couldn't remember where my room was…" She giggles once more, "So, I entered the first door then saw you sleeping so peacefully, and… hehe… your bed looked so comfy…"

What sort of ridiculous explanation is that? All I can think is that you were too stupid to find your own room and decided to sleep in mine, you know?

"…But why are you naked?" As embarrassing as this situation is, I find myself regaining a small amount of my composure. At least I'm not a stuttering mess anymore.

"Silly Hachiman, I just told you that I prefer sleeping without any clothes on. Besides, we're going to get married so this is only normal, right? We're already a couple… teehee," I suddenly feel a hand on my shoulder. "You said it yourself, right? I'm your girlfriend."

I would have reacted to her touch, but I felt that such reaction would have led to her somehow losing her cover and me seeing everything. That's how these harem situations went, right? So I merely remained where I was, reigning in my embarrassment as much as I possibly could. I did at least try to tug my shoulder away from her touch, but she didn't relent. I sigh, it was too early for this…

"…That was just a misunderstanding," I stand up, refusing to look back at her. "I'm going to take a shower, you'd better better be clothed and back in the guestroom before I get back…" It wasn't much of a threat, but I did try to convey a serious tone that didn't allow any refusal.

"Okay, Hachiman! Whatever my dear future husband says!" Was her cheerful response. Good grief, what did I do to deserve this so early in the morning? Class doesn't start for another two hours.

"Cut that out already," Was my retort before exiting my room.

I close the door behind me, and lean against it, sighing as my eyes wandered across the ceiling.

There was just something off with the girl, and I'm not just speaking literally. I know there are enthusiastic people, cheerful, always looking happy and such. Yuigahama was like that, and Deviluke looked to be the same as well, but I just couldn't ignore what her eyes conveyed when I was about to throw her out of of my house yesterday.

Something must have happened to Deviluke to make her act so cheerful all the time. She was too happy for it to all be real. It reminded me of Isshiki's alleged happy facade as she had that constantly strived to maintain a very happy act around others while hiding everything else that wouldn't be seen in a good light. I wouldn't particularly know since she's usually sly, foxy, and terrifying underneath that smile of hers whenever I'm around.

Whatever, I'm due for a shower. I'll deal with that later.

2-2

"Eh, Onii-chan? You're awake?"

I was welcomed in the hallway by my dear, cute, little not-sister. It wasn't really surprising to see her already dressed up for school, after all, she was usually ready to go and making breakfast by this time. What was still surprising but not entirely unexpected after yesterday's observations was instead of being met with a cheeky smile and a witty comment about my laziness, it was a completely confused and withdrawn Komachi.

I wanted to ask about it, but I feared that it would only lead to mutual confusion for the two of us along with a possible answer I wouldn't like. So I decide to merely take note of it and move the conversation along.

"Yeah. I had a… nightmare about aliens and it drove me away from my room…" I muttered out a half truth, it wasn't a bad dream that drove me away but a bad alien. It was then I noticed the goddess known as Belldandy exit her room. I blinked as she wore normal clothes, which I had seen my mother wear once when I was just a kid and before she had completely become a corporate slave. Looks like she fits in them just fine.

"Eh? A nightmare?," She looks up at me in confusion, clearly not understanding my answer. I keep myself from frowning, the Komachi from my world would have made a joke about me being a loser for being affected by a nightmare as a seventeen year old.

"Something like that. I'm going to take a bath now," Was my response. My instinctive Onii-chan Mode activates and I place my hand on her head and lightly ruffled her hair. When I pull my hand away, I see her cheeks redden, she puts her hands on her head in small surprise at my action. I cock my lip upward in amusement, I feel relieved to see her return a small smile, even if it was a bit hesitant.

"Okay…" She nods, "Belldandy-chan and I will cook breakfast in the meantime. But I wonder where Lala-chan is… Belldandy-chan says she was already gone when she woke up," The moment she says that, I tense up. Good thing she didn't catch that.

"Hachiman-sama, oh, I'm sorry. I mean, Hachiman-san, good morning," I turn to see Belldandy, who was greeting me with her usual smile.

"Mmm, morning…" I respond robotically. I halfheartedly notice Komachi look at us in surprise. Rather than the two in front of me, my attention is drawn to a head of pink hair entering the guest room without them noticing. Good, at least that's taken care of.

"Onii-chan?" Komachi's voice draws back my attention, upturned eyebrows are prominent in her expression. She's honestly that surprised about Belldandy changing her way of referring to me?

"What is it?"

"Ah, um, it's just that it's like your relationship with Belldandy got closer," She mumbles, finding her twiddling thumbs fascinating. Belldandy blushes lightly and averts her gaze from me. To avoid fanning the flames of Komachi's curiosity, I manage to suppress the blush I felt coming, with only awkwardness showing.

"It's nothing like that. I just don't feel right being referred to as '-sama,'" Not entirely true, but inside my house, it's just weird. Those lesser than me in school should go ahead and do it though.

"That's correct, Komachi-sama," Belldandy nods her head. It's pretty impressive how quick she catches on to these sorts of things,"As someone that requested my services, I thought that addressing you and your family in such a manner was appropriate. However, Hachiman-san asked me to refrain from doing so with him."

Komachi nods in understanding, "Oh, okay." Then she bounces back, "Onii-chan, have you seen Lala-chan?"

"No, not at all. Maybe she had to do some alien stuff or something, and now she's back. You should check," Yeah, I think I'll let Komachi handle Deviluke. It's too much of a headache for me.

"Okay then!" Komachi gives me a cute smile and leaves to the guest room.

Belldandy looks around, she looks sort of cu-… confused, yeah, that's what I meant to say, "I do wonder. Where could Lala-san have gone to?"

I cock an eyebrow. If my memory isn't failing me, Belldandy also used '-sama' to address Deviluke last night. Yet now she's using forwent that honorific in favor of '-san'? Deviluke might have asked her to, seeing how familiarly she acted with everyone she might not like being referred so formally by others. I can't confirm that though.

"No idea," I respond monotonously.

"That is odd… She was not in the room when I woke up…" She notices my stare, her countenance suddenly displaying shyness and something else I can't put my finger on. What's with that? She was fine with me before she made her phone calls.

"Ah, well… you're about to find out…" Belldandy tilts her head, confused, as a sense of dread overcomes me. A door being opened is heard and then…

"Ah, Lala-chan! You're ba- UWAAH! W-WHY ARE YOU NAKED!?" I hear Komachi scream out, looks like that stupid alien didn't get changed.

"Eh?" Belldandy's head turns quickly towards Komachi's voice. I immediately turn towards the bathroom door and open it. It's not my problem anymore.

"H-Hachiman-san?"

"Don't mind that, I guess…" I slam the door shut once inside the bathroom. Once inside I turn to the clock on the wall, I have a good hour before I usually wake up so I can afford a decent bath right now.

I prepare the tub before I begin to peel off my clothes. At least I have a spare uniform to change into once I'm done. That's one good thing. While I wait for the bath to heat up, I may as well wash up with the showerhead in the meantime.

Gah! I know I wanted cold water to wake myself up, but this was freezing dammit! Geh, whatever. I'll go ahead and finish this off so I can go into the ba-

"Hah…?" I pause as I reach out my arm towards the showerhead.

Huh? Wait, what's with my arm? I pause my shampooing and stare at my right arm. It looked different somehow, was it bigger than I remembered? Wait, was that a… scar? That shouldn't be right, I don't have any scars on me. Even the car accident failed to leave anything but the hairline fracture on my left foot.

I immediately stand and check the bathroom mirror. My Reflection was suspiciously not there with his usual smirk, but that wasn't important right now. No, what had my full attention right now was what I saw in the mirror.

Whoa… Is that really me? Is that how my body looks like right now?

No it couldn't be, I didn't look like that. I may not have been the most active person but I did have a lean physique, nothing special. Now, I looked, well, great. My body looked athletically built, with thin but tight muscles on my arms and body. Wait, what the heck are those…? One… Two… Geh… Three more…?

What's with these scars? I analyse my reflected image carefully. One faint scar on my left forearm, another on my abdomen, and the last across my chest. Four in total, they weren't particularly big, but still somewhat noticeable… What on earth was going on here? This wasn't what my body looked like at all, but if that's the case… Could it mean that…?

[Quit touching our body like that already. I told you it looks creepy seeing it from the outside.] All of a sudden, my reflected image was distorted until only the shadowy figure of him was left in the mirror. He gave me a disgusted sneer.

"Wha… What is this?" I choked out.

[Can't figure it out? What an idiot.] A smirk formed on his face this time.

"Oh, you sure are a douche, Twisted-kun!" At the side of my reflection appears the annoying little girl I saw in the cathedral of… something. "Why not give yourself a hand?" Muru Muru giggles, "That sounds wrong, gehehe! Anyhow, consider this a gift from Deus, Creepy-kun~!"

[Tch, who called you? I was getting to it."] Was his response.

"O-oi!" I instinctively grab the towel around my waist to hold it firm just in case. I looked around me to make sure she's not in the room. I glare at the mirror, "I'm almost naked here, brat! Don't just appear out of nowhere, and much less when I'm like this! Why are you here anyway?"

"Who knows? Maybe I just wanted to say hi," She grins.

I suspect I won't get anything rational out of her. Anyway, what did she mean by gifts? Oh wait, I remember now, before I woke up, Deus Ex Machina mentioned something about leaving behind gifts for the abrupt summoning.

"So, this is the gift he gave me?" I ask suspiciously. It couldn't just be an improved physique as the scars wouldn't be here if that was the case.

"Yeah," Muru Muru flies around my reflection, and it's odd to see her doing that as if she was inside the bathroom with me. How is this kid only in the mirror? "Think of it as Deus unlocking it for you."

"Whose body is this? Is it another creation from Deus Ex?" If it had no actual owner, I can guess that this was a fake body created so I can blend in. Why the scars though?

[If you think I'm just going to give you the answer to that question, then you're a bigger idiot than I thought.] I expected as much. This bastard won't let me have it so easy despite that he claimed to want to help. I look over to see Muru Muru give me a 'Teehee! Pero~!"

"Whatever… " I snort.

[Mm, well now you'll at least be able to make our enemies think twice before messing with us. I'm actually looking forward to see you kick ass for once.]

"Wait… I know how to fight now?" If that's the case then I'll need to figure out this body's capabilities if I'm going to be stuck with it. Just great… Even my own body doesn't belong to me. Well, at least my height is still the same, wouldn't want to explain that to the others. I see my Reflection huff in exasperation at my question.

[As I expected… You don't know how to fight. Don't mind that too much though, as with your current physique, you'll at least have decent reflexes to handle one. One person is fine, two people is cutting it close, but three people is generally a bad idea. Though I wouldn't recommend brawling against trained people, let alone superhumans. Even at our best we could only keep up, yet never win. But… That's only if you decide to play fair, get it?] My Reflection gives me a cocky smile, probably the least intimidating expression he's displayed. Looks like he decided to be a bit helpful here.

"It's not like I'm planning to get into fights or anything," Seriously, I might be referred to as a savage thanks to a certain Ice Queen but I'm not going to go out and pick a fight or anything.

[You might not have a choice in the end. There's plenty of dangerous people out there, you know?] My reflection raised a hand, making a fist. [Think of it as a means to survive should you encounter danger. I assure you, this game won't be a walk in the park.] He has me there. It's idealistic of me to think otherwise.

This game will end with someone's death, but who's to say blood won't be shed before that? I want to think otherwise, but with a supreme being like Belldandy arriving, aliens like Deviluke and superhumans like Kazama Asuka existing, who's to say I won't continue running into others of the same kind as them? And with less than 'noble' intentions? I have to be realistic, so I can't discount the existence of opposition. I can't afford to.

"No… I guess not," I respond before I catch a peek at what should be a wounded hand. Huh? I broke a mirror with this right? Shouldn't I have scabs from when I cut myself? It looks completely fine now. "Is there anything else I should know?"

[Who knows really…?] I sigh in resignation. Suddenly, the strange floating brat speaks again.

"Weeeell~ You might have noticed that you heal a bit faster than normal. It's so easy to see that Deus doesn't have that much faith in either Creepy-kuns, so he improved your adaptive regenerative capability and it works faster when you're asleep. It's nothing supernatural, so don't go off and lose your arms like an idiot. They won't come baaaack~"

Well, I'm at least glad to hear I'm not sort of mutant with a cheat-like healing factor. Like that western superhero, who was it again? He's that fellow with the metal claws or nails, and an animal name. Whatever, that guy.

[Hoh, that's interesting…]

Muru Muru floats upside down as she grins insincerely, "It can protect you from a mortal wound, or at least, it'll help you survive long enough to get better treatment. Instant death wounds will still kill you, so don't think you'll survive being decapitated or anything as lame as that, Creepy-kun~" This annoying brat is at least being informative, but she really pisses me off!

Ignoring that, it's rather surprising to know that I have accelerated healing. That would explain how I'm not sore after the damage I took yesterday. I quickly position myself to check my back, he and the kid have the courtesy to give me room to see. Good grief, I see another scar on my right shoulder blade, but at least my back doesn't have a bruise from slamming into the wall last night. Maybe that's why I didn't feel as hurt a few minutes after the crash, I had healed by then or at least enough to ignore the pain. But that still leaves…

"Oi, what's with these scars anyway?" They were too clean to be made from mere accidents, or even broken bones. In my book, that could only mean…

[Well, you'll have to figure that on your own.] My reflection gave a shrug of his shoulders before abruptly disappearing. Looks like he's done with helping me. I glance at the grinning brat staring at me in amusement.

"What?" I grumble, "Quit staring at me, brat."

She pouts, "Phooey… Are you embarrassed?" I sigh, grabbing a towel and fixing it in the upper borders of the mirror. Good, now she can't see me. Still, I hear her voice, "That was really mean, Creepy-kun! Show at least a bit of appreciation."

"Get lost already," Comes my growl.

"Meh, you're so lame."

I wait several seconds before raising the hanging towel from the bottom. The brat was not there anymore. Honestly, it was a relief… but I'll leave the towel there just in case.

There's plenty to analyze with this new information. Why can't my tired mind get a rest? Well, now I at least know that I'm not just as wea- I mean, as normal as I was back in my world.

…

Crap! I forgot about my bath! I only have ten minutes left dammit!

2-3

Well, I did what I could in this rush of a bath. I'm clean, and my hair's presentable, I'm not relaxed but at least I'm ready for the day. Unfortunately for me, the 'spare' uniform in the bathroom was actually supposed to be in the wash basket. Seems like my Reflection was a bit of a slob here.

I crack open the door, huh, looks like the close was clear out in the hallway. In my desperation to escape that naked alien, I wasn't able to snag my uniform and since the spare was a bust, I'm left with just a towel. Well, since no one's around, I'll just rush to my room as quick as I can.

…

Success! No harem clichés where the protagonist loses his towel in front of a heroine here!

Jokes aside, coming back into my new room, I still find it impressive that Deviluke was able to restore it back the way it was before she crashed into it. Those stupidly named gadgets of hers are very powerful things. Wait, did she bring everything back? I'd be glad if that extensive collection of 'research' materials and eroge was gone. Who would have thought that the me of this world was such a pervert?

I check the closet just in case, no, looks like they're fine too… I'll do something about it soon though, maybe Deviluke has some Erase-Everything-whatever-kun or something stupid like that.

Whatever, I'm dressed in my uniform so I should head down and get breakfast. It's still fairly early, so I'll be able to enjoy it instead of being in a rush.

"Huh, I thought it was weird to hear someone in the bathroom so early. So it was you Hachiman, you're up early." A voice greets me as I reach the living room. Wait, old man? He's not supposed to be here.

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 02Section: Song 02

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"Pops… You're here? Shouldn't you be at work?" I don't remember the geezer ever taking a day off, heck, I've never even seen him awake this early on his days off. But here he was, in casual attire lazing about and watching the television.

"Hoh… Kicking me out of my own house? That's some nerve you have there, boy…" The old man gives me a dry stare. Looks like this is a regular occurrence here, the geezer might actually have the day shift to my mother's morning shift today. Looks like I'll have to take notes on what times they're available. Or maybe it's a one time thing.

"So?"

"I'm going in later since I helped Komachi-chan and Bell-chan fix the guest room and make it more homier," Was his response. Looks like it was a special case this morning, I guess it'll be the same as always with them. But, oi, what's with that nickname for Belldandy, you geezer? You just met her last night you idiot.

"You guys coming late again?" Might as well confirm it.

"What are you talking about? You know Okaa-san and I only stay late for meetings every three weeks. We'll be home after you two show up like always." Pops leveled me with an incredulous stare. Well, I didn't expect that. Looks like my parents are actually involved with our lives in this world.

Don't get me wrong. I don't resent their absence back in my world, but it would have helped if they had been around more. Then again, they were both daughter-cons so I might have been ignored anyway…

"Ah, my bad. I'm still waking up so I got my days mixed up," The lie comes out flawlessly and I deliver it convincingly. I'm not sure I like that.

"Hmm, well it's fine. You usually get up right about now." The old man responds easily enough before turning back to the television. Looks like that was enough to convince him. Guess, I'll eat breakfast now.

"Whoa…" The food looked incredible. Komachi's usually a great cook but it looks like Belldandy was able to make it even better.

"Is it all to your liking Hachiman-san?" Speak of the goddess and she will come, I guess. I turn to the ever smiling Belldandy.

Now that I look at her closely, she was wearing the apron I normally us- Er, the spare apron my mother has. Yeah, that… Totally not mine.

"It's good, I guess," I observe the banquet before me. There was everything in it! There was Tamagoyaki, steamed rice, miso soup, even spinach goma ae, and fried pork, grilled fish and fermented soy beans. The smell was incredible…

"Wow! Ne, Onii-chan," Komachi suddenly pipes up, looking excitedly at the food, "Belldandy-chan's breakfast looks just a good as yours and Souma-chan's!" I raise an eyebrow. Where did I hear that name before?

That comment of hers though, it implies that I'm great cook, but was I really that good? I knew how to cook, even sometimes using unorthodox means but in this league? Maybe in this world I excel at it, I mean, this breakfast looks amazing.

"Thanks for the food."

I grab a bit of the fried fish and some miso soup, a bit of rice following. What the hell is this! It's… heavenly! There's no way I can cook better than this! Good grief, I can't stop eating!

"Ah, Onii-chan, you're eating really fast," I see Komachi surprised at first, before she began to giggle along with Belldandy. I probably look stupid with my mouth stuffed with food, unable to respond. Better not look at the goddess right now…

I calm myself, chewing my meal and tasting it as much as I can. Man, I can't wait to eat dinner if the goddess cooks again… No Hachiman, you have to resist the temptation. They say women conquer a man's heart with food, and I have to admit that almost worked with me, but I know better.

I scoff, regaining my composure, "Sorry, this is… tasty. Thanks Komachi…" I look at the goddess, who gazed at me expectantly, "And you too… Belldandy…"

Belldandy's smile shone so radiantly in that moment, that I just couldn't help feeling mesmerized by it. She really was beautiful. But that's unfair dammit! And the worst of it all is that I love your food to death! Teach me your culinary ways so I may excel as a househusband!

"I'm glad to hear that, Hachiman-san. I practiced quite a lot when I was younger during my previous visits to Earth," Oh, so she was knowledgeable about humans even as a kid. Interesting… "Actually, Japan was one of the first countries I visited," Her face becomes nostalgic, if only for a short moment. "Oh, I heard sweetened coffee was to your liking. Let me serve you a cup."

"Ah… Uh, thanks…" I try to play it cool. Was it me or did she recall something important about her childhood then? I grab another bite of grilled fish as pops decides to join us.

"Leave some for me, will ya?" He whines, and I wave my hand nonchalantly in response.

"Oi, boy, you should pay some respect to your elder, much more to your awesome Otou-san!" He reprimanded with a detectable fake tone of disbelief.

Komachi hugs him, "Making jokes this early in the morning, Tou-san?"

Belldandy giggles, and I smirk. That was clever, Komachi, and the face of the old geezer is priceless. I nod at Belldandy as she puts the cup of coffee on the table. I wasted no time in taking a sip of it and once more I was delighted. Just like MAX Coffee, but homemade. Ah~ This life's already bitter enough as it is so at least let the coffee be sweet.

"Mmm! This certainly is as good as our cooking, right son?" Pops begin. So, I assume he is a good cook in this world. Nothing close to that in my world as far as I recall, "Maybe I should introduce Bell-chan to Jōichirō. He would be impressed."

"Who?" I ask.

Komachi let's out a loud, "Ehhhhh!?" My father almost spits out his beverage. What now?

"Jōichirō Ojii-chan, Onii-chan," Komachi pulls my blazer and I stare blankly at her. "Souma-chan's dad, remember? He visited us with Naomi Obaa-chan the last month."

Hold on a minute, I've never had an uncle or an aunt with either of those names, so I have to assume this is part of this new world. Either way, I guess I'm gonna have to do some research later on about this. Man, the list of things to do is getting large… geez…

"Oh, them… Right…" I scratch my cheek, my tone casual. "My bad, looks like I'm still somewhat asleep. Don't mind me."

"I'm just glad that the breakfast is to all of your likings," Belldandy says, taking a seat by Komachi's side. Hoh… There was an empty seat at my side and she deliberately ignored it despite that it was closer to her. I'm beginning to think that she might not like me all that much.

Belldandy looks behind her sit, "Where is Lala-san? Breakfast will get cold…"

Komachi averts her gaze, her face suddenly displaying embarrassment and discomfort. I know, Komachi. You probably recalled seeing Deviluke naked, I understand. I really hope that alien isn't some sort of shameless exhibitionist. That'd be too much. Now that I think about it, I should probably start locking my door to prevent this morning's mishaps from happening again.

"Eh, um, Lala-chan told me she would come down once she puts on… some clothes…" She mutters that last part so painfully I almost apologize. I probably should have warned her… Well, it won't be the last time she sees another nude female, so there's nothing I can do. Besides, she'd then wonder why I knew she was naked and I'd get stuck in an awkward position…

"So, about… Ehrm… Naomi… Where is she now?" I ask the only thing that came to my head to divert the attention from Komachi's uneasiness. I'm not even sure if I'm referring to her right, who knows how the other Hachiman called that woman.

"Well, she went back to the America. She's a very busy woman, remember?" Replied pops before digging in the fried pork. Hold it, you old fart! You're about to become history, leave food for the younger generations!

I snatch the bowl of pork from him, before continuing, "I… never really talked much about that with her… So what does she do exactly?" I have to go out on a limb here for that, I'm not sure if this version of myself is as antisocial with family friends as I am. This version seemingly has a huge circle of friends already so I don't know. I'm already lucky that no one said anything when I mentioned her name. Am I on a first name basis with her?

"Well, considering that she avoids talking about her job, it's no wonder. She's actually an expert in forensics, and currently works with the FBI," His face suddenly becomes serious, and while I failed to notice it, a sigh from Komachi draws my attention. She looked sad. "She's a strong woman."

I have a bad feeling about this. Silence sets, and Belldandy looks on in concern. I guess she can sense the heavy atmosphere. That or she must have read someone's mind, I'll have to tell her not to do that with the others either.

"Has there been any improvement about her case?" Komachi asks uneasily.

Pops sighs, folding his arms. Belldandy blinks, leaning towards him, "What is it? Is something wrong with her…?"

"You see, Bell-chan. A friend of mine was exposed to some kind of manufactured disease developed by terrorists some time ago. While her team managed to stop the pandemic created by them, her exposure to it eventually mutated it into a terminal genetic disease. And the previous cure they made doesn't work on her…"

Belldandy gasps, and I widen my eyes. I didn't expect something like that. I assume that I should have known about this, considering that Komachi herself was aware of it. Maybe I can find information about that on the internet.

"She should be resting," Whined Komachi. This was depressing… And I brought it up. Damn it…

"Well, it's better if she has something to keep her distracted," Pops offered. It's understandable, I seriously don't know what I would to if I had a terminal disease.

Belldandy suddenly blinks, as if realization hits her, "Could you be talking about Naomi Kimishima-sama? I read about her in the files of Yggdrasil. She was actually chosen to be granted a wish, yet she refused to make one according the report."

My father cocked an eyebrow, "What?"

Shit! Her tongue slipped! He's not supposed to know about your wish system you careless goddess. From the way she has her hand against her lips, it looks like she realized her blunder. Wait, why would that woman reject the chance of asking for anything!? Why not ask for that disease to be eliminated?

"Wait, Naomi Obaa-chan rejected a wish?" Komachi echoes my thoughts. Stop, you idiot!. The old geezer is here! I need to find a way to prevent this from escalating!

"Oh, I think she didn't like going to shrines, much less making wishes…" The old geezer nods, looks like he reached his own conclusions. I need to take advantage of that.

"Yeah. She never liked those sorts of things, right Komachi…?" My tone was serious and sort of threatening. I just hope she understands what I'm trying to convey.

Before she could even nod, a loud voice resounded behind me, "Hachiman! Why didn't you wait for me to eat together!" Ack, I have sensitive ears dammit! Stop abusing them!

I still recognized the voice though. That was without a doubt that annoying alien. I turn my head towards her as she sat at my side, sporting a long white shirt, and big shorts. They seemed to be two sizes bigger than her.

"You didn't have to yell…" I growl at her, but she ignores me. Apologize to my aching ears right now!

"Why the long faces? We should be happy that I'm now part of this family! And also Belldy-chan!"

I nod my head, "Yeah. I don't want to lose my appetite, there's plenty of food left."

"Wow! This is so delicious!" Deviluke was already eating… from my own bowl! Idiot, cut that out! It's not… ehrm… hygienic? Just quit using my utensils dammit! You didn't even give your thanks for the food!

I hear a giggle. Komachi and Belldandy were looking at us in amusement. My father smirked, patting my back, "You two already seem married, Hahaha!"

"Quit saying that kind of crap," I growl at him, however, it was a relief that they forgot about Naomi's disease… at least for now.

"Eh? Why are you wearing those clothes, Lala-chan?"

I sigh and take a sip of my coffee, observing the alien carefully. Now that I think about it, where did she get that shirt and those shorts? "Oh, these…" She points at herself, winking at me. "I took them from a drawer in Hachiman's room."

I choke on my drink, and cough violently. Wait, WHAT!?

Are those actually my clothes? I don't recognize them at all, but if she took them from my bedroom then… Don't you realize the great misunderstanding you could cause, you stupid alien?

"See!? I told you that you're already a married couple!" The old man gives me a hard pat on the back. Shut up you geezer! Stop making things worse!

"W-wow, Onii-chan…" Komachi's stutters as Belldandy blushes and averts her gaze.

"N-no, wait a second. That's not the case. She obviously just stole my clothes while I was in the bath." I try to defend myself, still recovering from my near-death by coffee.

"Y-yeah, probably. Onii-chan isn't the type to do that sort of thing." While it's good that Komachi was convinced with that, it pisses me off how casually she denied the possibility. Isn't the Hachiman of this world already accomplished in that department?

I could only sigh in resignation. Well, whatever. Looks like they decided to drop it and move on to their small talk. The mood's better than before at least.

Watching them begin to talk, I can clearly see the differences from my usual table whenever my parents are home back in my world.

Komachi would usually steer the conversation and have it focused on herself, which I tend to appreciate because I really don't have any interest in talking about myself. Initially it was because I had nothing of interest to talk about, but even before coming to this world I didn't really talk about myself with them.

Heck, I don't even think my parents ever knew that I'm was in a club as they were usually too tired to wonder where I was on the weekends where I found myself being dragged off by Isshiki for some request. And I didn't really feel like sharing that part of my life with them, I can't really think of why, I just didn't.

Whatever the case, I can see clearly that the old man is more engaging in conversing with Komachi rather than doting on her like a shameless daughter-con. A small smile breaks on my face when I see how happy Komachi looks having Deviluke and Belldandy to talk with too. I couldn't really provide her with that, so I'm glad she has more companionship at home. It's a bitter feeling actually. As her brother, I'm quickly realizing that I didn't do as much for her as I thought I did.

Now, about the two… visitors…

"Hachiman…?" I blink upon hearing my name, "Are you there, Hachiman?" Then I blink again as Deviluke is waving her hand in front of my face.

"Don't mind him, Lala-chan," Komachi speaks as I finally return my focus back to my surroundings. "Sometimes Onii-chan is thinking deeply about things when we try talking to him."

"So that usually happens?" Inquires the space girl, and pops chuckles and nods in a teasing manner. Shut up old man.

Komachi smiles teasingly, "Ne, why are you laughing, Tou-san? You're not any better." His smile contorts into a stupid expression, and it's priceless. Another critical hit Komachi. Way to go, Onii-chan is proud!

"You're so mean, Komachi-chan!" The old geezer whines, earning giggles from the females around me. Huh… Was this actually what having a family moment looks like? I suppose it would be more interesting if my mother was here like yesterday.

I suddenly feel a steady vibration in my pocket. Weird, was someone calling me? I take out the phone, the ringtone shutting down any conversation on the table.

Looking at the screen, I see the name of the caller, Kasumigaoka Utaha. I think a person of the same name sent me a message yesterday. Mmm… it was about finishing a book or something. This person's a girl right…? I don't think a boy would be called Utaha.

Either way, I'm unsure of what to do right now. I don't know who this is, much less my relationship with this person. Assuming it's a girl, she used my first name so that might mean we're close. Then again, she may be the type that probably decides on doing so on her own. Whatever the case, I might have to answer or else I'll look suspicious. Shit…

I stare at it for a few more seconds, before Belldandy makes herself noticed.

"Are you not going to answer, Hachiman-san?" She has a look of disapproval as if she decided I would. Hey now, I'm not that sort of person, usually.

"Ah, yeah. Excuse me." I mutter before getting up from the table and heading to the living room. I see my phone was silent now. Whoops, I took too long… Well, I still have some time before I need to leave, might as well take a seat in case she calls again. Reaching the sofa I notice my cell phone start vibrating again. Huh, they say that a call is important when the caller actually calls twice, so I guess this must be.

Pushing the answer key, I finally answer.

"Uh… Hello?"

I wait a few seconds before I get a response, "'Hello'? That's all you're going to say?"

Okay, the caller is a girl… definitely. Her tone doesn't convey what I expected, so maybe I have to be more… er… casual?

"Ah… Utaha? It was you, huh?" I hear her breath hitch once I ask.

"Eh!?" I wince at her sudden change in volume. What's with every girl calling me screaming in my ear? And now she's silent? Honestly…

This doesn't look to be going well so far. Maybe I shouldn't have used her first name… but she did use mine. Could it be that she was the only one who did that? Great… I messed up already.

"Oi… Are you there?" I know she still there as I can hear her erratic breathing. Nothing I can do about it now, might as well keep going and see what she wants. "…Utaha?"

I hear her gasp slightly again. I seriously messed up here… Should I just call her Kasumigaoka…? No, now that it's come to this, it would be pointless now.

"Oi, if you're going to call someone, at least say something, would you?" I say sternly, gazing around to make sure Komachi or anyone else wasn't peeking at me out of curiosity.

Several seconds pass, and I was starting to get impatient.

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 02Section: Song 03

---

"…It's your fault, you know? I didn't expect to hear you say my name… At least give me a warning if you finally decided to do it…" She finally replies, and to my uneasiness, I indeed confirmed that I made a mistake. There's no going back now about this matter.

"Uhh… My bad. I can stop if you want," I try to sound reassuring while taking this chance to get out of a situation where I call a girl by her first name. It's sort of embarrassing now that I realize it.

"Don't you dare!" I blink at her outburst, "I-I mean, now that you did, it's fine. I don't mind."

Well, maybe we're indeed close… actually she and the original Hachiman may have been. How close? I'm not sure, from her reaction, it may be to a point I'm not entirely comfortable with.

"Uh, sure…" Scratching my cheek, I clear my throat, "So what do you need?" Shit, I just recalled about the book, so it must be about that, isn't it? "This is about that new book you're writing, right?"

"Indeed. Why else would I call you if it wasn't for that? Or maybe…" Her voice becomes uncomfortably piercing, "…You were expecting something else, Hachiman-kun?"

Whoa, why do you suddenly sound suspicious? What did I do? Wait, '-kun'? You called me Hachiman in the message, make up your mind already woman.

"No, not really," I reply with a dismissive tone. I'm not going to be intimidated here dammit. "I was having breakfast right now. And was rather enjoying it, so tell me what you want so I can finish it."

It takes Utaha a few seconds to respond, "Sorry about that. Anyway, as I told you before, I wanted to hear your opinion about my latest novel. Can we meet later so I can give you a copy? After school of course. I assume you don't have anything else to do?"

Don't decide that on your own, woman! Even if that's the truth, there's no point in reminding me of that! Mmm… well, apart from that, I can tell she does knows me, I mean, the Hachiman of this world… whatever.

"I'm not sure. I'll let you know later," Another half-truth, I was somewhat busy today.

"Don't tell me you actually have plans today?" Tch, why are you asking it that way?

"Believe it woman, even I have a life sometimes," I waited for a response but all I got was her giggling.

"Doesn't that imply that you usually have nothing going on?" She asks with a smug tone and I swear I want to end this call right then and there. Stop reminding me about my lack of social life dammit! I'm perfectly happy with just peace and quiet!

She seriously reminds me of Yukinoshita, who tended to mess with me whenever she could. Though Utaha seems to do it more jokingly than the Ice Queen would, honestly that devil woman is the main source of my insecurities…

"Whatever, I'll let you know," I mutter.

"Are you mad?"

I blink, "Is there a reason for me to be?"

"You tell me," She sounds a bit concerned.

"I'm not. Happy?"

Utaha makes a humming sound, "Not particularly… Then six, at Saize?" Mmm… Saize, huh? At least she's got good taste. "I'll of course eat something in Yukihira's before going there."

You dare speak badly of Saize!? Give it back! Give me back my praise!

"Well, you can go if you want, that's up to you. I already said I might be busy today," What can you say to that, annoying writer?

"You're a bit short-tempered today, Ronriteki-kun," What? 'Logical-kun?' Well, it doesn't sound that bad actually. "Is Yukinoshita-san bothering you again?"

Wait, Yukinoshita? She's knows about her? Seriously, who is this girl to me?

"…That depends on which one," I have to play it straight, she might be referring to Haruno-san or the Ice Queen herself. Though I feel I might know the answer if yesterday taught me anything about my current relationships with both Yukinoshita sisters…

"Mm…" Okay, that humming sound wasn't a good sign, "It's not like you get along with Yukinoshita Yukino-san in the first place… or maybe something else happened?"

"Not really," I say with a dismissive tone. So that's common knowledge then?

"Then it is about Yukinoshita Haruno-san…" Scary! Her tone has become so dark that it's scary! What's up with that? Do they know each other? "Is that sham of a proper lady, perfect on the outside but rotten to the core, causing you trouble once again?"

That's actually a good description of Haruno-san. Anyway, I gulp before responding, trying to calm myself, "No. Some weird stuff happened yesterday, that's all."

"I see… You know, I'm actually surprised that you didn't complain about being called 'Ronriteki-kun'," So the former Hachiman disliked that nickname? "So can I address you like that now?"

"I don't really care," Actually, I prefer that nickname instead of being addressed by my name. It's already embarrassing having those two intruders doing so already. Besides, it's a pretty good one compared to my many others given to me courtesy of that Devil Superwoman.

"Then Ronriteki-kun…" It's not hard to notice that she enjoys using that name. I wonder what made her start calling me that… although, it somewhat suits me I guess. "May you explain to me what strange occurrences you were subjected to?"

"Komachi, Pops and…" Oh, shit. I just can't tell this girl about those two freeloaders. She was scary enough when she attributed my irritation to Haruno-san, "…and my mother are waiting for me. I'll tell you about that some other time"

"Really…?" She doesn't sound convinced. Meh, it's not like I care, "Ronriteki-kun, I wonder if that's true… you actually sound eager to leave." Her tone darkens again, "You see, I've heard some rumors circulating you and Miura-san."

Utaha even knows Miura Yumiko? Is this girl from my school by any chance? Seriously, give me a break with this dump of information. At least, now I know this girl's a key element to uncovering some of 'my' past in this world.

"Rumors? What kind?" I ask intrigued not only by these, but also the fact that she would know them. She must be in my school or else, she might be a stalker, and I seriously don't need another one!

"They refer to seeing you talking with her a lot, which is unusual. I assumed you still hated her if I'm not mistaken."

So it was that… well I figured as much when I saw the title of Ms. Annoying Bitch in my phone. But why I should hate her if she has been actually trying to be nice? Was all that an act of hers? Or did something happen?

"Not anymore I guess, " I begin casually. "Is it a problem if I don't?" I ask more robotically.

Silence comes, and I glance at my phone, "Oh, so now you plan to cast me aside so you can satisfy your lowly needs? I actually thought better of you, Ronriteki-kun…"

Cast her aside? Was that a joke or did that sort of thing actually happen? "Well, whatever you think is happening, it's not like that at all. Frankly, there's hardly anything useful in following senseless rumors."

Utaha sighs, "Senseless rumors, you say…? It's a shame that you won't ever understand the feelings of women, Ronriteki-kun."

"I don't bother trying to understand something so overly-complicated to be understood," That's a lie though, as getting to know people and understanding them was a requirement of mine now, ignoring superficiality in the process, but we're talking about stuff related to women here, which I honestly don't find interesting. That and they're just too confusing for me to be able to understand. Wait, don't I have to interact with women for the game?

"Another excuse to avoid the matter?" She giggles, but it gives me the shivers for some reason.

Isn't this conversation lasting way too long? I mean, I'm actually talking to someone despite the fact that I have no idea who she really is… I don't even know how does she looks like. All I can tell about Utaha is that she's somewhat perceptive of me.

"Sometimes I just think that you act clever to hide how scared you are."

I narrow my haze, "Well, that's a matter of opinion. Facts may prove otherwise," I retort.

She giggles once more, but at least she sounds normal again, "I suppose. Oh, I wanted to tell you something else. Don't worry, it won't take long."

"What now?" I ask impatiently.

"Aki-kun actually asked me out."

Who?

I raised an eyebrow, it's not like I care, but why is she bringing that up? Also, am I supposed to know this person too? Looks like now she's silent. I bet she's expecting some sort of reaction from me, well, sorry but I'm not playing along.

"And? How does that affect me?" I say offhandedly.

"Tch," Oi, what was that? "You know that's a lie, Ronriteki-kun. Considering that you know him better that I do, it should be expected." I could be wrong, but was that some odd attempt of making me feel jealous? And if she already knew that I wasn't going to fall for it, why even try?

Anyhow, this 'Aki-kun' must be close to me for her to say that. I think I should start taking notes if I don't want to forget any of this.

"So that was it?" I inquire.

"No," She says with a playful tone, "Have you talked with Aki-kun in these days?"

I'm going to assume I didn't, "No, why?"

"I don't know what's gone over him, but he asked me…" Her voices fades, but I don't say anything at all. I blink as she sighs before continuing, "He claims to be planning to develop a gal game."

"A gal game?" Oh, so he's some sort of game developer then? That's pretty impressive. But seriously, of all the sort of games to make, he chose that? There's already plenty of those for the sad and pathetic.

Source: Er, students in class…

"Don't take that hypocritical tone. You love those sorts of games to death, besides, there are good ones, ignoring your disgusting selections and interests," She's also aware of the hentai collection. She must be really close to me as I don't think I'd ever let someone see it… not even my family. So those really were mine? I'm seriously going to need to get rid of them.

"Aki-kun wants me to be the scenario writer of his project. I gave his script's first draft a glance, and honestly, it was the worst thing I've ever read, completely undeserving of my time. The source material that is referenced can be easily recognized, and not to mention the poor quality. It was just a mishmash."

Damn, that was really straightforward and brutally honest, "…Did you actually tell him that?"

"Of course I did. Do you think that lying to him would help him? It's better that he knows that his project is a total failure sooner. I assure you, his project won't be going anywhere if that's his best."

I feel bad for the guy, but I guess it's fine. She actually did him a favor by stating the truth. I have to admit that doing such a thing improved my impression of her, if only a bit. I still haven't forgotten about Saize though…

"Well, if you say so. What does it have to do with me?" I'm not a writer in this world, right? Anything could be possible though. This new body of mine is indication enough.

"Despite my honest review of his work, he still insisted," She explained with a bothered tone. "So I told him that I would think about it if you joined his circle too." Oh I see, now it makes sen- why are you dragging me into this!?

"Oi, don't involve me in this," I growl dryly. "You're the expert, you deal with it."

She let out a small chuckle, "I won't, unless you come aboard. As his friend, you should at least think about it," Utaha's tone seems to be one of amusement. "Maybe help him a bit as you're also an expert in light novels. Not as the creative type of course, but as the consumer. Give him some ideas at least."

"Hold it, don't just put the weight on me, Utaha," Another small hitch of her breath came from the phone. I guess she isn't used to hearing her name yet.

"Ronriteki-kun…" She takes a few seconds to finally speak, "Aki-kun will probably try to convince you, so if you do accept, let me know. Anyhow, I'll see you at six, at the same table of course. Goodbye, Ronriteki-kun." She really irks me.

She hung up the phone without giving me a chance of retorting. What's with all these people overstepping these boundaries of respect? It's so unnerving… And I already told you I might not make it, dammit.

"Utaha, huh? Nice to see you two in such good terms." I blink to see the old geezer smiling like an idiot. So he knows this girl.

"It's not like that," I sigh, pocketing my phone. "It's no big deal, we're just… good acquaintances." Well, at least that's what I got from this conversation.

His knowing smiles irks me to no end, but I let it slide. I completely ignore him and return to the table. Komachi and Deviluke were already done, but Belldandy had barely touched her food.

"Ah, Onii-chan. What took you so long?"

I retake my seat, "Sorry, long call."

"Who was it? Was it Haruno-san?"

Shit… Did that witch use her dark spells and enchant my little sister? Not on my watch. If this world's Hachiman never did, I'll be sure to keep that devil away from her. Onii-chan will save you Komachi!

"Who is 'Haruno-san'?" Deviluke asks with genuine interest.

There's simply no way in hell that I would allow you to meet that girl. With Belldandy it's the same as she would notice the devil that Haruno-san is. I'll have to be careful about this.

"She's one of Onii-chan's closest friends," Replies Komachi.

"No she isn't." I respond reflexively. Oops. Looks like that may have been the the wrong thing to say seeing my sister blink in surprise.

"E-eh? Wasn't that the case? Did you two argue about something?" She pressed but I merely shook my head, "Ah, Haruno-san hasn't come to visit us lately now that I think about it."

I can only imagine that Haruno-san was an active… acquaintance and managed to get to know my family. She actually came to my home… Honestly, the nerve of that woman. I'll have to prepare preemptive measures to avoid her from messing with my family.

Er… this world's Hachiman's family… Ack, this is seriously headache inducing…

"You should know that we have different points of view, so don't expect her to be coming around anytime soon," I say with an uncaring tone, which I truly meant.

"O-oh… But, I thought Haruno-san was fun…"

My eyebrow twitches at that, "Well, the past is the past and I don't dwell on it. For your own sake Komachi, you shouldn't either."

"But Hachiman…" Surprisingly, Deviluke is the one to argue, "Sometimes the past hold meaningful memories, right? If you simply ignore it, then what about those memories? Don't you have them too?"

I'm surprised, I didn't expect such a comment from her. Could Deviluke possibly be referring to her own experiences? And now that I think about it, she seems to always come in defense of Komachi like some sort of older sister. Now that I really think about it, I haven't really asked Deviluke about herself, she usually just blabs about unimportant things. Maybe I'll do so later. But right now…

"That's not the point. The past holds regret of either what you once had or what you have gone through. There's no point in dwelling in the past because it already happened. Doing that just means you're running from the present."

Deviluke winces as if she took a physical blow. Huh, I was right, this is more personal to her. Komachi seems ready to voice her opinion but the old man interjects, "Komachi, you should understand that not everyone can get along for too long. If your brother thinks that, he must have his reasons. As his cute sister, you should support him."

I look at pops with a bit of surprised appreciation on my face. He couldn't have said that any better. I guess you're not just a shameless daughter-con… that's good at least. You get one point old man. You're still in the negatives though.

Komachi slowly nods in understanding, her slightly begrudging expression shows that she doesn't like it though. How well did she get along with Haruno-san?

I grab a bite of rice and it's… still warm. I raised my gaze towards the goddess and she just nodded with a little smile. She somehow kept my food warm… but why didn't she eat her own food yet?

"Ah… thanks, Belldandy," I manage to say, averting my gaze aside. "Uh, aren't you eating?"

"I was waiting for Hachiman-san to come back. No one should eat without company," She replied kindly and I nearly choked on my food. Are all goddesses like this or is particular one just this nice?

A loud, "Ehhh!?" Comes from my side. "I should have done the same! Belldy-chan is such a strong rival! But I won't lose!" Stop that, you stupid alien. Rivalry for what exactly?

"Oni-chan's life has suddenly become exciting," Komachi giggles to herself.

"Take your time, Hachiman," The old geezer snickers. "There's no need to rush."

"Whatever that means…" I deadpan, taking a final sip of the heavenly coffee. Hah~ It's a shame that I'm all out…

I gaze at the clock in the wall, there was still time before the gates closed. Still, I should head out already.

I finish the rest of my breakfast before glancing at Belldandy. She notices me and her gaze begins to look at anything but me, finally averting them to the side. Was that just shyness or something else? Whatever, I'll just be respectful. I am a gentleman after all.

"Thanks for the breakfast…" I stand on my feet, "It was delicious."

Her cheeks redden a bit, yet she still nods without looking at me. I nod before noticing that someone was holding my hand. It was of course, the alien, who was startled. What now?

"Hachiman? Where are you going?" She asks and I mentally facepalm. I pull away from her grasp, causing her to pout.

"To school, where else?" I retort as I pick up my schoolbag.

"School? What's a school?" She asks innocently.

...Hah?

No, you can't seriously not know that. Even if you are an alien, you have to know about institutions of education. I can't be that sure though. Maybe the education systems in other planets such as hers differ. Maybe there's another name for them?

"Does er… university ring a bell?" I ask and she shook her head negatively with a smile. Oi, that's nothing to be happy about. "College?" Again, she shakes her head with a smile.

Seriously? How could that be possible? She had to learn from somewhere right? I really don't feel like explaining the concept of Japanese public education. I see Komachi walk back into the kitchen.

"Ah, Oni-"

"Komachi might be able to explain it to you better, Deviluke." I cut off my dear imouto and promptly throw her under the bus.

"Eh?" Komachi on the other hand blinks in confusion. But I'm already leaving the room.

"Komachi-chan, what's a school?" Deviluke immediately begins her questioning.

"Eh!?" I grab my bag as Komachi is thrust into a sudden situation.

She grins, leaning towards her, "Hachiman says you can explain it to me!" Crap, I have to get out of here already. The old man and Belldandy are staring at me in confusion.

"I'm off." I mutter, hopefully loud enough for the others.

"Ah, yes, take care Hachiman-san." Belldandy says gently.

"R-right, take care." The old man stutters out.

I quickly shut the door and escape successfully.

2-4

Hmm, what a pleasant surprise, there's no one waiting for me. I walk towards my bike, my trusted steed. I can finally use it to get to school this time instead of getting stuck walking with someone. I don't necessarily hate Yuuki Rito but his presence was really annoying yesterday.

Whatever, I mount my bike, fix my schoolbag and sigh. My second day in this world was already becoming a headache and I couldn't help but wonder if further trouble awaited me. Considering yesterday, I'm sure today won't be better.

As I ride my bike onwards, I come across many students of Sobu, Sainan, Kaihin Sougou and three other schools I'm unfamiliar with. It just doesn't make sense to have this many schools so close to one another… Chiba is great, but whoever decided to cram so many educational facilities is a complete idiot, urbanistically speaking of course. That's just asking for traffic jams.

I suddenly stop myself, noticing a familiar face up ahead, actually, two. The first one was none other than, uh… It was something about a motorcycle or something, right? Honda? No, not that. Wait! I remember now! It's Kawasaki, Kawasaki Saki. I'll have to be sure to remember it this time for sure. Looks like she looked the same as usual. A calm and aloof expression, holding her bag over her shoulder. The last time I saw her in my world was during the Valentine's event that Isshiki set up with Kaihin Sougou, she and Kei-chan were making obligatory chocolates. Everything looks the same with her, maybe she's actually the same? No, I can't kid myself with such a selfish and idealistic thought. Everyone in this world has their differences, both large and small. I can't expect anything less with her. I'm not really sure why I still do, probably out of desperation on my part. I have to face reality already.

For example, right now I can see a difference with her. It's really strange to see Kawasaki conversing with a girl from another school. That surely was an odd sight as they seemed really engaged in their conversation, as if they were friends. Could it be the she is a bit more social is this world…? Well, she did socialize a bit more with Ebina after the Christmas event, but not to this degree. With Ebina, she was awkward and watched her tongue, here she looked more relaxed. I guess she managed to make friends in this world.

…

Wait… I narrow my gaze, observing carefully Kawasaki's walking companion. Huh, I think she looks a little familiar… That pink hair clip… Where have I seen that before? It is then that the unknown girl turns her head a bit, giggling at whatever Kawasaki said. I widen my eyes as I finally recognize her as Nibutani Shinka.

I was actually wondering whether I should say something to Kawasaki, but with that girl around, meh, Nibutani was probably still mad from yesterday due to Haruno-san's clinginess. I can only assume I meant something to her for her to react like that, but this is only speculation. Considering that she fits the conditions to be the fake, that means that I'll have to interact with her even if I don't want to… Gah, stupid game…

Well, if she knows Kawasaki, then I'll have time later to deal with Nibutani… and Kawasaki herself. I'll avoid them for now. Before I could even move though, I feel a hand land on my shoulder. Geez… did Yuuki or Aikawa catch up to me? I instinctively pull my shoulder away from the touch.

"Oi, quit gra-" I blink, startled. Behind me was neither of the aforementioned guys, but someone else I didn't know. The boy merely smirked at me, nodding his head.

"Sup, Hachiman. Going to school?"

I unmount my bike, glancing at Kawasaki getting away alongside Nibutani. I sigh in relief before focusing on the boy before me. Who's this now?

This boy had unusual dark red spiky hair. It didn't look dyed, was it natural then? Not only that, he also had yellow eyes and a vertical scar on his left eyebrow. Was this guy supposed to be a delinquent or something? No, he looks a bit younger than me actually, fifteen maybe? He was slightly shorter than me, if only just by three or so centimeters with me slouching. For what he wore, he used a brown jacket over a black shirt, grays pants and brown shoes. He carried a bag filled with what I could see was dairy products, vegetables and fish. I also noticed that there was some sort of white armband tied to his left forearm.

"Hey, dude, you there?" His voice calls my attention, "What are you monologuing about now?"

The fact that he said something like that might mean that he knows me to a closer degree. Whatever the case, I'll try to act polite this time. Being too familiar is plain uncomfortable and being rude won't help me here.

"Nothing really," I stare at him blankly. Well, this is the closest I can get to polite without seeming fake.

"So, are you still with that memory loss thing Rito told me about?" He actually looks concerned, I just hope he's not as irritating as Yuuki. I just stare at him blankly until he gives in. "Geez… I thought they were kidding. Heh, well, I'm Yukihira Souma."

"Mm… I know," Of course I don't but I want to save me the trouble of giving a lame excuse for not remembering him. This is getting too repetitive, "I was just messing with them."

Yukihira snickers, "That so?" Resting his hand over his shoulder, the bag hanged by his back. "What's my old man's name?" He ask with an amused tone, which made me narrow my gaze.

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 02Section: Song 04

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Is he testing me? He didn't believe what I just said? Hoh… Maybe he won't be so bad. I was lucky to have heard the conversation about the old geezer's friend, "You mocking me or something? How wouldn't I know it? It's Yukihira Jōichirō, of course."

His expression becomes serious as he gazes at me, it's a bit surprising how quickly his expression changed but I stare back blankly in response without flinching. It seems Yukihira Souma may be something more than meets the eye. When I first saw him, he struck me as the sort of friendly, energetic and hot-headed type of guy, although it looks like I may have misjudged him slightly.

A cocky smile spreads across his face before nods and simply walks past me, "Heh, it seems something really happened to you, but it isn't necessarily bad." What's that supposed to mean? He looks back at me over his shoulder, lowering his head a little, "Say, I'm taking these ingredients to the restaurant. Wanna tag along?"

I sigh, "As tempting as that sounds, I have to get to school. What about you, aren't you going to be late?" I ask with an uninterested tone as I pull my bike with me, walking forward. Yukihira catches up to me, letting out a chuckle.

"Haha, well, didn't I tell you?" I don't respond, keeping my eyes on the path. "I'll be returning to Tokyo in a few days. I took some days off before heading back to Totsuki after the Stagiaire. As I finished sooner, I got some free days and I wanted to see how Chiba was doing."

Stagia… what? I frown, wondering if he just said something senseless. He seems to have noticed my expression as he chuckled, "Now that I think about it, this is the second time we've seen each other since I came back. We still need to catch up."

"That would have to be for another time," I comment drily. "Unlike you, I still have classes."

He chuckled again, glancing at me, "Well, the restaurant is on route to Sobu, why not catch up in the meanwhile?"

"I have a bike if you haven't already noticed," I comment with sarcasm, earning a coy look from him.

Yukihira punches my arm playfully, "You're usually better at making excuses, Hachiman. Besides, it's still early, so getting to school before classes start is just stupid."

It wasn't that early, but he had a point. The first part of his statement made me pause… this guys seems to know me well… How am I acquainted with so many people? From what I gather even in this other world, everyone seems to know that I'm not the approachable sort of person. So how do I possibly have a large amount of 'friends'?

Well, I could use any information he gives me anyway, so I'll have to relent.

"I guess…" I mutter monotonously.

Yukihira grins as he continues to walk forward, "I've been really busy lately, you know? Managing by my own the restaurant is a pain, but I can't really complain. Everyone was excited to see Restaurant Yukihira open, if only for a couple of days."

"Is that so?" He looks at me dryly, but I don't react at that.

"Well, yeah," He yawns before continuing. "Sadao, Kurase and Takanashi helped me though," Great, three more unfamiliar names. If he's bothering to say them, then that could only mean that I know them too. "I actually respect the old man a bit more since he's managed the restaurant by himself when I was still a kid."

So his father was a manager of sorts, or was he actually a cook himself? I suspect the latter.

"For my part, my old geezer would need to become the prime minister for me to respect him," I say with a deadpan, shivering a bit with the cold winds.

"Haha! I don't really see him as the guy who would care to manage a country," Yukihira comments snarkily. Oi, only those of the Hikigaya household get to make fun of the old man. An outsider like you has no right. "So, what about you?" I blink at his sudden question, "Have things improved at Sobu or…?"

"Take a guess." I state cryptically.

He makes a humming sound, as in thought, "I guess not, but it's not that surprising though." Silences ensues for some seconds, "Do you still mess with everyone at school?"

So Yukihira knows… and I suspect he's far more knowledgeable about me than Yuuki and Aikawa are, and ironically enough, me included. Komachi compared Belldandy's heavenly breakfast to both my cooking and his, which means that my cooking is as good as someone that works in a restaurant and studies gastronomy.

Is this an improved version of one of my 108 Hachiman skills?

"Not really." I respond, observing the entrance to the Chibadori Shopping district.

He puts on a lazy expression, "That so?" He doesn't sound convinced, but I couldn't care less. "So you stopped trying to reveal everyone's true colors then? You've already done enough of that, and I'm not saying it was good, but… why stop now?"

That was unexpected. I can only assume that Yukihira accepted the Hachiman of this world as he was, ignoring that he probably did despicable things to earn the hatred of everyone in my school.

Revealing their true colors, huh? I could read people and see things about them that they don't want others to know, but I wasn't one to reveal it to the public. So, it looks like what my other self did in Sobu to earn the hatred of everyone was something along those lines. But what was he trying to achieve by doing it? To make Sobu a place free of superficiality and lies? That's just too stupid to try, it had to be something else.

"I guess I just don't care what others do anymore," I reply with certainty. "I'll only focus on what's important."

I can't discount that this could possibly be an interpretation of Yukihira's based on his own conceptions of this Hachiman's actions. Or maybe my alternate self really was trying to achieve something 'good', as twisted as the method ended up being.

But I still hold doubt. Did my other self really uncover the true colors of those in my school? If hatred was the only he got for doing so, then I honestly think he didn't achieve anything productive.

Exposing a person's true colors may be a victory in and of itself, but if the results garner hatred from everyone, then it's still an overall loss. It's understandable if the victim resents the instigator who destroyed their facade, but if the instigator's reputation is damaged in the process, then that opens up the possibility of the victim saving face because of that.

'It's no wonder you acted like that, that Hikigaya guy is such a creep.' Is such an instance.

And once they have that option, whatever previous efforts that were made by the perpetrator are now in vain.

Source: Me. Sort of.

My situation with Sagami Minami back during the Cultural Festival was proof of that, except my intent wasn't to reveal her true colors. I said what I said in order for her to go back to the stage with the alibi that I was the cause of her nerves. I knew the type of person she was and I did slowly reveal to her just what her worth really was, but it was done so I could garner the hatred of others in her stead. It was originally what I saw as an answer where no one got hurt. I purposefully sought the hatred because I knew it didn't matter to me. That's why I can't figure out what my other self wanted to do, for whatever method he used made him a scapegoat anyway.

Of course, this is all purely speculation on my part. Maybe being hated by others was something that my other self was looking for. For what exactly? I have no idea.

It's ironic actually, that I can't figure my other self out. Well, whatever. No use thinking about it now, I don't know enough yet.

Yukihira oddly enough remained quiet as I was lost in my thoughts. He observes me for a second before cracking a smile, "Well, honestly, that's good to hear. Could it be that you hit your head, causing this change of personality…?" Out of nowhere he puts a dumb face, "Your eyes could be proof that you really hit your head, damaging a nerve and making them look like that."

"Hell no, idiot." I grumble. Once again, my eyes steal the spotlight. Yukihira snickers and we proceed to walk in silence, which doesn't last much.

"You know, it's been some time since we've had a duel," Yukihira smirks. "Don't you think it's time to see who's better? I hope you have honed the Hikigaya Style well while I was gone."

A 'duel' he says? So that means we've fought or something? Well, maybe this guy really was a delinquent. That scar by his brow could be the proof that he's fought people before… so what does this imply? Considering the scars on my new body, does that mean that I'm a delinquent too? Everyone in Sobu seems to treat me like one.

"Uh…" I looked at him nonchalantly, "I don't think that's a good idea."

"Why not?" He asks, looking displeased.

"I'm… out of practice," I try to say this without it sounding like a question. He gives me an offended look.

"What!? How could you do something like that?" He again puts on a dumb face "Or not do?" He wonders aloud before regaining his sharp expression, "You're supposed to be one of the only friends I know who could keep up with my cooking here!" Yukihira gives me a disappointed look. Oh, so he was talking about cooking.

"Well, I have to deal with school. So I really don't have time to practice. Besides, how am I supposed to keep up with you?" That's partly true, he's the one that's running an entire restaurant here. How's a normal highschool student supposed to keep up? I've never even taken a culinary class.

He smirks, punching my arm softly, yet it still startled me. Tch… Quit doing that already.

"Well, if you want to be a househusband so much, you'll need to keep your cooking skills sharp," His tone suddenly reeks of confidence. "You can't just let the Hikigaya Style disappear. I won't let that happen."

"Whatever," I roll my eyes, before the Restaurant Yukihira comes to my sight, A chuckle escapes Yukihira's mouth, his yellows eyes gaining a piercing light. Is he an anime character now too?

"So much has happened since I left Chiba," I turn to him, the redhead looking a bit nostalgic. "I thought the old geezer made a mistake when he gave me that application form for Totsuki, but it turned out that was the best thing that could have happened."

"Mm… is that right?" I don't particularly care, but any additional information could be worthwhile.

"Yeah… I not only made some great friends, but I also met some incredible people. Just managing to remain in Totsuki is a challenge, you know?" He grins as he apparent recalls those events… probably, "There were so many difficult exams, and I've faced skilled chefs in a Shokugeki, too. I've learned a lot. Even if I'm still behind many of them, I will reach the top eventually. I promised I'd do that, so I won't fail."

He seems excited. This must really mean something to him. I wonder what motivates him. And… what was a Shokugeki anyway?

"Good luck with that," I say with a deadpan. I can't really say much more, especially since it doesn't really matter to me.

"You making fun of me, Hachiman?" He asks suspiciously. Whoops, was that the wrong thing to say? Meh, if this guy was really a friend of this world's Hachiman, then he wouldn't care about such comments. He's dealing with a worse version of me after all. "You know I'd never back out from a challenge. Conquering Totsuki will be nothing but a step in my road to becoming better. Luck has nothing to do with it!" And once more that dumb expression of his returns, "Besides, if some lame guy's decided to drop his cooking skills, someone has to make Chiba look good, right?"

Oi, oi… Lame? Me? That was uncalled for…

"Tch… Break a leg then, literally." Hmph, and here I was trying to be nice. When you fail you'd better not come crying to me.

"Hahaha!" He pats my back playfully, and I'm now seriously considering to retaliate, in a not so amicable way… Just kidding. I never was the violent type and I'm not going to start now. But all of this touching was really starting to get annoying. "Nakiri and you are pretty similar, haha. Thanks for the support!"

---

Go to profile, SEE: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 02Section: Picture 02

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I stop on my tracks before glaring at him, "Really, break a leg." I growl out.

"Not gonna happen," He replied cockily. "Unless you do something about it…" Despite my glare, he didn't change his expression in the slightest.

However, his smile suddenly disappears and he looks back at me with a curt expression. Looks like we've reached an impasse. Silence reigns as neither of us refuse to back off. You picking up a fight bastard?

And to my shock, Yukihira starts laughing heartily, "Been some time since this happened, yeah?" I blink in confusion as he walks to the entrance of his restaurant. "Brings back old memories…" And he stops, giving me his back, "Do you remember when we teamed up against my pops? He still kicked our asses, but I guess that just made me want me to reach my goal in beating him more than ever."

So that's why… Looks like his old man is an even better cook so he wants to reach that level some day. Not really surprising, the man you strive to surpass tends to be the very man who raised you. Not me though, I refuse to be a corporate slave like that geezer. Much less an annoying daughter-con.

I sigh, before turning back to the road, "Ah, you might actually do it."

"Of course I will. Hey, drop by later, I'll save some food for you," I look at him over my shoulder. Yukihira's energetic demeanour is back.

"It may be a waste," I deadpan. Although the idea of free food does intrigue me, I might just be too busy to take up that offer.

Dropping the bag to the ground, he folds his arms, "Heh, we won't know that until it happens. Might as well see if the person who's supposed to eat it appears or not." He says this with a confident smile. What sort of stupid logic is that? I just said I might not make it. Wait, isn't this déjà vu?

"Well, I'll see you later then," He gives me a casual wave.

"…Right." I nod back and mount my bike.

I hear him call out before I begin to pedal, "Heh, I don't know what happened since I left, but you're a lot cooler than last time."

"What are you talking about? I've always been cool." Saying that, I finally set off.

2-5

Damn, walking with Yukihira kept me from getting to class early. Whatever, looks like I still have fifteen minutes before it starts.

I get off my bike as I near the campus and begin to walk from here. I can also see that other high school in the distance. I still think that it's a stupid idea to have two schools directly across from each other.

As I approach the gate I hear a soft voice speak out behind me.

"Ano…" I blink, turning around. To my surprise, before me was the girl that Yuuki called 'Haruna-chan'. Now that I think about it, I never heard her last name.

"…What is it?" I'm not sure how to respond to her. I only interacted with her yesterday because she bumped into me and caused an embarrassing situation. I can only guess that we don't know each other well. She acted as polite as she could after the mishap yesterday and mostly focused her attention on Yuuki, who was a reddened, bloody mess at the time.

She starts to panic, "I-I… I j-just!" She completely freezes and becomes a stuttering mess. Tch… Don't waste my time if you're not going to say anything. Whatever, I should snap her out of this if I want to move things along.

"…who are you again?" I ask drily.

She becomes silent, her face slightly red. I stare at her with rising impatience until she finally responds, "I'm… I'm… Sairenji Haruna… A classmate of Yuuki-kun's… You're his friend, Hikigaya-senpai, right?"

'Senpai,' huh? I guess that means Yuuki and her are both a year under me. Makes sense now that I think about it, Yuuki does look a little younger than a second-year. And he still thinks he'll have a fulfilling high school life (lol).

"Well, that's what he says anyway," Even if I have to fake my life, I'm not going to refer to anyone as my friend here. These people aren't my friends, so as a true loner of this world, I won't think them as such.

My comment however, causes Sairenji to frown. Since she probably likes him, she might not like that I denied being his friend. I don't really see how that's her business, but as long as she doesn't say anything about it, I won't either.

"Oh. Eh…" She fidgets under my gaze uncomfortably. I give her a few seconds to speak, but it doesn't appears she will anytime soon. Seriously girl, why even bother calling out to me if you're just going to stay silent?

"What?" I press, my tone reeking of impatience.

"Um… I… just wanted to know if… Yuuki-kun was fine…" I cock an eyebrow as her face suddenly flushed red. Waving her arms frenetically, she begins to panic much to my annoyance, "I-I mean, as a fellow classmate, I m-must look after every student and, and…" Her voice fades, that futile attempt of excusing her worry failing completely.

I sigh, why do I even have to bother myself with this? Well, this might be informative at least. I can learn a bit more about Yuuki.

"Why do you ask?" I inquire.

Her blush deepens, "Eh?"

I sigh again, "As far as I know, he's fine. I haven't noticed anything wrong." I did actually, his obvious affection towards you, but it doesn't matter to me, and even if it did, I'm not the one who should do something about it.

"I see…" She says with uncertainty.

"That's all?"

She blinks before dropping her gaze. Man, it's just so irritating that she can't voice her thoughts at all. I see now why she and Yuuki aren't together yet. If either one of them could actually confess, they would already be a lovey-dovey couple I'd be telling to blow up, but this wishy-washy act of theirs is in the way.

I was blaming Yuuki for being an utter idiot about the matter, but Sairenji Haruna isn't any better. I hold the power to change that, as simply telling her of his feelings would immediately solve this matter, but, then again, would their future relationship really be genuine? If they can't even speak to one another right now, how could they even be expected to hold a meaningful relationship if it was because of me that made them aware of their mutual affections?

Now, taking this on another perspective, what if Sairenji was the fake human? How would I manage to uncover her true nature? While getting to know her myself was the obvious option, maybe I could have Yuuki delve into that.

Yeah… that's probably the best course of action to take. But that's in the future, I still have deal with this idiot now. Maybe, I could just give these two a little push? Now that I think about it, whether or not their relationship could be called genuine shouldn't matter to me. So, having them be closer for the sake of keeping an eye on Sairenji is something I should focus on.

"So…" I start and she raises her head, having finally calmed herself, if only a little bit. "You like Yuuki?"

As expected, she becomes all red again, her eyes glassed over and her arms flailing wildly. I back away from her with a grimace, this is seriously getting annoying. Cut that out before you hit someone.

"W-w-w-w-what!? I… E-eh? I…" She's a complete stuttering mess, which is fastly earning the attention of those around us. Great, just what I needed. "I don't… I mean, I-I…"

"Calm down, would you?" I say with annoyance, "Don't get all worked up for a yes or no answer. It's already easy to see that you do, so relax already."

She nods, dropping her gaze again. Her grip on the handle of her book bag was tightened so much that her hands were becoming unnaturally white. I blink as I could actually see that she was cracking it through sheer force… What on earth? How strong is this girl?

"A-am I that… obvious?" She finally speaks, heaving a sigh. "I'm not sure… I… I just don't know for sure…" She suddenly gazes directly at my eyes and I find myself startled. "Can I… trust you, Hikigaya-senpai?"

I blink. That was totally unexpected. How can you ask that if we just formally met ? But I guess it works either way for the sake of my plan.

"Well, you'll have to decide about that for yourself, my opinion may be biased," I reply with sarcasm and she smiles. Hoh… She caught that did she?

"Can I ask you something?" She softly asks, her expression focused. I nod slowly, "Even in Sainan, there are rumors about you, bad rumors…" She seems hesitant, "A lot of people talk badly about you, saying that you've done horrible things…"

"And? Ask the question." I say, or more like, command, in a bored tone.

She seemed slightly surprised at that, "Why do you let people believe them?"

Now it was my turn to be surprised. I thought she was going to ask for the authenticity of those rumors, but this implies that she doesn't believes them herself. Interesting…

"What do you mean?" The only way to know is to ask her directly.

"I-I mean, why let everybody hate you like this?" She seems pensive, "It's just that… Yuuki-kun always gets in trouble for arguing with people gossiping about you at our school, so…" I was startled by that revelation. Her cheeks redden a bit, a hand resting over her chest. "He seemed so passionate that I really want to believe him…"

Wait, are we talking about him or me? Where exactly are you going with this?

"So?"

"Y-you see, the school garden was vandalized some time ago, and everyone placed the blame on Y-Yuuki-kun because he happened to be there by chance…" I narrow my gaze, listening attentively. "I… I, umm… I saw him taking care of this garden, the flowers and every plant around school from time to time, so I just knew that he couldn't have done it. Many people tend to forget about that responsibility, but he never did. He's… that kind…"

I blink… What does this have to do with the previous thing?

"Okay? What's your point?" I growl and she yelps slightly.

"Eh…? Oh… it's j-just that, after that incident, many people began treating him badly as rumors began to spread about him being a delinquent, which only got worse due to the fact that he always hung out with you, Hikigaya-senpai."

"I don't think this is the proper place to be discussing this, Sairenji," I gaze at the gossiping students gathering around in small groups. "Get to your point."

She panicked a bit as she noticed the gazes surrounding us, "S-sorry… It's just that… I want to keep believing in him… Which is the reason on why I… purposely bumped into you yesterday to meet you in person."

Really? This girl… "You wanted to confirm if Yuuki was telling the truth about me?"

She averts her gaze, seemingly ashamed, and nods her head, "I-I honestly had my doubts as y-you seemed…" Her eyes wander from side to side, I suppose she's trying to find the right words, "...sort of unapproachable all the time." She clears her throat.

I stare at her blankly, and she gets a bit nervous, "Then, what do you think now?"

She averts her gaze, trembling slightly, a hand gripping her lemon-colored blazer, and lets out a sigh, which she seemed to have been containing. She looks shyly at me, yet a tiny smile appears. She indeed was a cute girl now that I look at her closely, not to mention that she was well-mannered, and kind. It's no wonder why Yuuki seems to like her that much. A perfect example of a nice girl to be ensnared by. But still, that blind trust she holds in him is a very reckless thing to do on her part, especially when neither one can speak to each other.

"I'm glad to find out that he was saying the truth," She said, the shakiness in her tone gone. "You're not what those rumors say about you, Hikigaya-senpai. Despite that you still look cold and a bit intimidating, I can tell that you're a nice person."

Someone calling me nice? This world is so wrong in so many aspects that I can't even bother to comment about it anymore. How can she actually say that if she barely knows me? Yet the answer to that question is in the fact that she doesn't know me at all. Ironic? Very.

"You make it sound like you used me to make sure Yuuki wasn't a liar," I say without hesitation, my tone dry. "Not that I care but… what do you w-"

"Ehem."

The sound of a person clearing their throat comes from my right and her left. We both look at the source before I tense anxiously. The reason behind this reaction was of course the presence of the Sobu's Fire Queen, Miura Yumiko.

She doesn't look particularly happy, in fact, she seems upset.

"I was, like, wondering why there was a crowd here. So it was you Hikio…" Scratch that, she's glaring bloody murder right now. Scary! Miura's really scary!

"A-ah, Miura. Yo…" I avert my gaze away from this terrifying woman, unfortunately my stuttered response pissed her off even more.

"…'Yo'? Is that how you greet others in the morning?" I don't respond to her indignant tone, I'm feel as if I'll somehow apologize for some reason. I look back at Sairenji, she's frozen stiff in fear, which was understandable. Looks like I'm on my own… Alright, let's relax and focus on the Fire Queen.

"…So? What do you want?" I try to say this as coolly as possible. Somehow it seems to have an effect on Miura as her gaze drops slightly and looks at me shyly. The hell? How did she change expressions so quickly!?

"I… only wanted to say hi…" She plays with her hair, looking at me and averting her gaze in a repeated process. What a dangerous action she's doing there… "So… Hi," Her expression becomes cold out of nowhere, her attention being directed at Sairenji, who yelped in surprise. "Who are you supposed to be?"

"I-I'm Sairenji Haruna, a first-year from Sainan. N-nice to m-meet you," She says quickly, nervously bowing.

"She's a classmate of my… friend… Yuuki," Geh… Using that word makes me sick to my stomach, but I have to endure it. "She was asking if I saw him."

I exchange a glance with Sairenji, who seemed slightly surprised. Oi, don't even begin to question me as I'm doing this for you sake.

Miura narrows her gaze on Sairenji, who flinches in response. "Hoh… Does she like him or something?" Sairenji overloads once again, but Miura ignores it. Heck, she looks like she couldn't care less, "I'm Miura Yumiko, a second year. So… are you, like, done wasting Hikio's time already?"

I agree that this thing with Sairenji was sort of a waste, but who was she to decide that for me?

"W-well…" Sairenji looks to be lost here, probably still recovering from her being obvious about Yuuki again.

"I, like, asked you a question, you know?" Miura's voice has an edge to it this time. It sounds familiar. Sure enough Sairenji flinches at it and looks straight down at the floor.

"I-I'm sorry…" Wrong answer Sairenji. If this Miura is anything like the one I know…

"I'm not looking for apologies, you know? I asked you a question, so answer it." The haughty tone of hers along with Sairenji's current demeanor are painfully familiar.

"I'm sorry…" Instead of Sairenji, I see Yuigahama in a short flash. That thought brings a painful pang to my chest.

"Hah… Like I sai-" Miura began, but this time I won't let her continue.

"Miura," This time it's my voice that has a surprisingly dangerous edge to it. I ignore how every student surrounding us make sounds of trepidation, I ignore the fact that it wasn't Yuigahama who I was defending but Sairenji. I focus on Miura.

"…W-what is it Hikio?"

"If you're not here for anything important, you can go." I mentally berate myself for momentarily losing my composure. Despite the clear contrast between this Miura and the one from my world, she isn't all that different. "And leave her alone."

Miura is Miura after all. Not showing any interest to those she regards as lesser than her, always holding herself in high esteem, thus making everyone else in her eyes seem unimportant. And just when I thought the one I knew was becoming cute.

She visibly frowns, "So you're taking her side? Is this the girl they say you're, like, dating?"

Who? Dating? What? Me? When did that happen? Where was I when that happened?

"Just what are you talking about now?" She's getting on my nerves. Where did that come from anyway? More rumors or something? What the hell is wrong with people? Talking and creating false information about someone unrelated to them without a care?

Seriously, I'm done with this.

And just before voicing my harsh opinion about it to the Fire Queen, Sairenji spoke with a tone that conveyed earnestness, "H-Hikigaya-senpai is a person I respect, Miura-senpai." She turns to me with a small smile and bows slightly. "Thank you for you for your time, Hikigaya-senpai."

With that, the bluehead turns around and walks away, disappearing between the groups of students near the entrance of Sainan High. Soon, the gossipers begin to scatter much to my relief.

"Hikio, I…" Miura starts out timidly but I don't let her continue. I'm too annoyed right now to deal with her.

"Class is about to start, I'm heading inside." My voice is curt and to the point, the previous edge it held once again appears.

"W-wait!" Miura, however, conveys a sense of desperation at my sudden departure. Why, I'm not sure, but I'm not in the mood think about it right now.

However, I'm not in the position to act this way with one of the few persons that could help me uncover my own past either. I can't alienate her. Damn it. Alright Hachiman, just relax. Patience really is a virtue these days.

"…What now?" Looks like this was my compromise. The edge is gone but my speech is more rude than I meant for it to be.

"Are you… angry?" She asks uncertainly. I take a calming breath, still facing away from her. I wasn't actually angry at her now that I think about it, but mostly at myself for letting my memories of Yuigahama get the best of me.

"I'll wait for you outside the classroom when lunch starts," This should be enough to let her know I'm not. I glance back at her to notice that she's smiling slightly to herself. Guess that made her happy for some reason, it's fine then, less headaches for me. I still need to put my bike away, so I head inside the gates.

I'm a few steps inside when I begin to hear another pair of steps next to me. I glance over and surprisingly, I see a happily smiling Miura Yumiko right there. Is she following me?

"What?" She doesn't look put off from my tone if her smile is any indication.

"Hehe, nothing~" She giggles to herself. What the hell? That was really cute right there! Was Miura always this girly? Wait, she was put off just now, right? How is she this happy so quickly?

I don't respond to that though, I had no idea how to. She was similar to my world's one, yet wildly different.

I sigh in resignation, deciding to let her weird attitude slide for now. She's still following me though. I may have to stop her from doing so, as arriving together could create misunderstandings inside the school's gossiping network, and eventual rumors. I don't really care about them, but I'd rather spare myself from the headache if she decides to blame me in the future.

I finally arrive at the school's bicycle parking station. I begin to lock my bike once I find a spot, noticing Miura standing by, waiting for me.

"You sure this is okay?" I ask her once I finished up.

"Eh? What do you mean, Hikio?" She blinks in confusion. I sigh again.

"Being seen with me. People might talk about that," I offer blandly. "You don't want that, do you?"

She stares at me, unblinking, her expression becoming blank. I frown at that, trying to imagine what was going on inside her head, but nothing really came to me. This is one of the few times I've found myself stumped as I couldn't read her at all.

"Oi, Miu-" I begin, but…

"Do you really think I'm so shallow to care about what people think?" She interrupts me before I can say anything.

Huh?

"Huh? But what about your reputation? Isn't it important to you?" I retort, "I don't think your clique will be happy knowing that you're spending time with the most hated guy in school."

I don't really know about Yuigahama, Tobe, Ebina or the other two whose names I can't seem to remember, but I know just fine that fake hero will find this not to his liking. Let me be clear though, I don't give a damn what he thinks, but causing trouble for Miura isn't what I'm aiming for.

Actually, if I remember right, the only ones of that clique that were together yesterday were Hayama and Yuigahama, I might have seen Ebina too but I'm not entirely sure as she and Tobe weren't seated that close to the other two from my view. Mmm… Are they even 'friends' in this world? I can't jump to any conclusions, so I need to learn more about this.

Miura is of course the one that should be aware of it. Looking back at her, she looks to be pretty annoyed. Oh, what did I do now? I was being considerate here.

"Clique? Are you joking?" She gazes at me sternly, casually twirling her blonde hair with a finger, "You're the one who told me that they were, like, using me."

What? Did my other self actually do something like that for her? From what Yukihira told me earlier, my other self was interested in destroying the superficial covers of everyone in Sobu, and I suppose that Miura wasn't an exception to this. If her behavior with me is anything to be considered, then… I would think this was a success then, right? She doesn't seem to hate me. Quite the opposite actually, which is something I find worse.

But then why did Utaha ask me if I still hated her? Why did my other self use the name 'Ms. Annoying Bitch' for her contact? Miura even told me yesterday that I was always mean to her. Why am I supposed to hate her? Did she do something wrong so she was trying to atone for her mistakes or something?

I don't have a single clue, I'm still in the dark here.

"W-well, people will still talk about you behind your back, you know?" I stutter that out quickly. I see her annoyed scowl melt into something more dangerous, a soft smile.

"I appreciate that you care about me, like, I really do…" She takes some steps closer to me, and I can't help becoming tense. She tilts her head, her cheeks taking on some color, "It's weird… I feel like you've become more considerate…"

Hoh… someone's calling me considerate this time? Well, considering what I've been learning about the Hachiman of this world, I may actually be nice in comparison. It's an odd thing to process.

Well, at least she didn't mention anything about my eyes.

She gives another sudden step closer to me, her green eyes gazing directly at mine. Wait a moment! You're getting too close, woman! Just what are you trying to pull?

"Your eyes… they're…" And here it comes again, yet another person making fun of them. Well, I did manage to jinx myself by bringing them up… I freeze as I see her tentatively reach her right hand out to my face. She doesn't touch me, but I'm very aware of her hand's heat as it hovers over my cheek. "Different… In a good way. I… I think they look good on you."

I stare at her, stunned, eyes widened as I try to force my body to move, to force a word out, but for some reason I couldn't. She complimented me, she complimented a feature that most people made fun of, and I couldn't detect even the tiniest speck of insincerity in those words.

It was as if she truly meant it.

Finally I take a step back, averting my gaze, my cheeks getting hot. I had just realized how scandalous our proximity was to each other. Doesn't she realize what this could cause? If someone actually witnessed this, then it would most likely generate enough rumors to destroy her social life. Does that really not matter to her?

"A-ah… I-is that right?" I can't look at her. She dealt severe psychological damage to me with that one compliment.

"Yes," She answer immediately, sounding so serious that I actually feel like believing her.

Stop Hachiman, just stop it! You're letting your guard down too easily! I need to calm down and think this logically, she must've had a motive to say that. You're better than this. I inhale and exhale deeply before opening my eyes, my tension gone.

"Look Miura, whatever you're trying to do by complimenting me, it won't work," I declare coolly. "I don't know where you're going with this, but whatever the case, just cut it out."

Miura bites her lip, looking slightly disappointed, before letting out sigh. She fixes her book bag before staring at me again, her posture and gaze demanding for my full attention. She raises a hand, along with one finger, "One. I, like, really mean it." Then a second finger is raised, "Two. I'll do it as many times as I want." And another finger is lifted, "And three. I… Do want something from you."

I clear my throat, raising my head slightly as I observe her with uncertainty. What exactly do I have that she wants?

I manage to smirk, trying to look mocking and uncaring, "Sure, sure. And that would be?"

While she still keeps her eyes locked on me, I can see her struggle to try and remain calm, her slightly trembling shoulders an indication of her state. Her reddened cheeks convinced me that her determination was becoming thinner by the moment. My fake smirk is immediately gone once I see that expression on her. It was oddly captivating.

"I want…" She closes her eyes, shaking her head as if gathering her resolve and opens them once more. I blink back in surprise as her voice echoes in the already empty area, the tardy bell sounds loudly, her voice fading with it, yet I could read clearly her lips, and I wish I hadn't.

"…you."

A soft breeze is the only thing that could be heard in that moment after the bell rung.

HAH!?

"…Eh? Y-you… W-w-what?" My face was on fire, any inkling of composure had long since retreated into the depths of my overwhelmed mind. I was completely unprepared at this indirect confession. I can't kid myself at this point. I didn't mishear or misread, I know exactly what was said. I know what the intent was. Saying otherwise will just be lying on my part, running away from my current reality.

This world's Miura Yumiko likes me. And I wasn't remotely prepared for this sort of thing.

She didn't flinch, nor did she react, only keeping her straight gaze, her eyes once again conveying sincerity… Genuine sincerity, to be redundant. There had been more to her than what I previously saw earlier, but never would I have imagined this be it.

Silence envelops our surroundings. We were now officially late to class but at this point, I didn't care. I was too shocked to care.

"Hikio…" She shakes her head, "Hachiman…" I could only look at her as a beautiful smile spreads across her face.

It was a completely alluring expression and yet…

I feel a churn in my stomach. I wasn't meant to see this, I wasn't meant to hear this. This confession wasn't supposed to be given to me. I wasn't the Hikigaya Hachiman that Miura liked. I don't know why she likes my other self, I don't know how she could despite the way my other self seems to refer to her, but… what I do know is that I wasn't the one she truly liked.

So… I didn't deserve to hear such a heartfelt confession from her.

"Miura… I…"

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 02Section: Song 05

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"Don't… I know what you're going to say," Her smile is coated by a hint of sadness, her eyes averting slightly. "I don't want a reply, at least… Not for now… I just needed to get it out of my chest, you know?" She giggles, and I blink. "For some reason I feel, like, I can be more open to you now, and… I feel like I'm beginning to really know you despite the fact you haven't really talked about yourself so far."

"That doesn't make any sense," I scratch my cheek, still reeling from what just happened.

"I know, but this is, like, what I feel right now," Miura gives another step forward, her face redder. "I'm so embarrassed right now, you know? T-this is actually my first confession."

Er… you're not making this any easier for me either, woman. I'm so confused. How am I supposed to react to this? What exactly am I supposed to say? This wasn't my field of expertise, I didn't know the first thing about sincere confessions. She didn't give me the option to respond to it, I wasn't even sure I would know how to.

I look at her a she shyly fidgets around and plays with a strand of her hair. Was she always this cute? No wait, that's not the point right now. Her expression was momentarily sad for a brief moment when she said she didn't want to hear my answer. Did she know how my other self would respond already? Wait, did he even care? His contact name for her shows that he probably doesn't. So wouldn't that mean… he's toying with her?

I feel a surge of anger well within me at that thought. As a person who's always been rejected, I hated the thought of toying with others feelings in that manner. People who did that were the even lower scum than I was. Whatever the type of person my other self was, he didn't deserve the feelings this Miura Yumiko held for him if he saw her the way I think he did.

I see Miura glance at me, her happy expression fades after seeing me glare at nothing in particular.

---

Go to profile, SEE: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 02Section: Picture 03

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She quickly looks away, and I guess that's to be expected. I relax my posture, realizing what I had caused. I drop my gaze, finding the ground more interesting right now, with a sudden feeling of awkwardness emerging at this new situation.

"..."

"..."

I need to resolve this rapidly uncomfortable silence. If I don't my lack of reaction will fester and hurt Miura more in the long run. And she doesn't deserve that, not from Hayama in my world, and especially not from my bastard self from this world.

"Miura, look I…"

"I think we should get going. We're, like, really late..." She suddenly says. Crap. It looks like she's too scared to continue on this topic, I can't really blame her. She's scared of the possibility of a rejection, I can understand that. While my instances were mere infatuations and hers was something more… sincere. I fully understand her current fears.

"…Yeah," I can't do anything at this moment, so I'll let her off for now. Next time for sure though, I'll properly answer her feelings. I owe her that much.

We both walk side by side into the school. Nothing is really said between us, Miura looks to be walking with a skip to her step. What the hell? That's way too adorable. And I'm still trying to process the fact that I got confessed to. Even if it clearly wasn't for me.

At least it's quiet. But oddly enough, the silence between us is not the least bit awkward this time.

And I don't know what to think of that.

2-6

"Late again, huh?"

I glance briefly at my homeroom teacher, whom with arms folded, only cared to make that one remark. It was sort of startling that Hiratsuka-sensei wouldn't really make a problem out of my lateness…

No way, could it be that she actually had a partner in this world? It would certainly explain why wasn't as embittered as the one I knew. Yes! Now I'm not open to being abused by that violent and aging woman!

I give her a small nod and walk towards my seat. As I do, I idly notice the disgusted expressions from some of my classmates, I hear them murmuring amongst themselves. Hayama of course, observes me with a cautious expression and Totsuka… He averted his gaze! No wait! Not him too! Anyone but Totsuka!

Ah… What reason do I have left for life…?

I see Ebina whispering something to Yuigahama and finally, Miura comes to my sight. Her cheeks become red, green eyes shyly looking at me before she starts fidgeting. Damn, that's too cute, critical hit. I manage to suppress getting flustered as I reach my seat behind the fake idiot.

After calling attendance, Hiratsuka-sensei begins with the class. And to be honest, I was never one to pay full attention during one, so it's not surprising that today's isn't any different, oh wait, it's actually very different… because someone just confessed to me! My mind is just too distracted to even remotely care for classes. I have a lot on my plate and I don't even know how I'm going to deal with this latest addition.

Confessions are something I never thought I would ever receive, or even hear for that matter outside of the pranks I experienced in middle school. I haven't done anything to deserve one in my world. That kind of thing is something I'm just not worth giving to. It was simply inconceivable, and truth be told, I never had a problem with it.

Yet now, it may be worse than I had imagined due to my special circumstances. The fact that I'm literally not the person who was meant to be confessed to is the main problem, not the confession in itself. In a cruel twist with my sudden arrival, Miura Yumiko confessed to the wrong person.

She liked the previous Hachiman, but confessed to me. She's said that she prefers how I am now than before, yet she doesn't know who I am. She doesn't know about my faults, and honestly, she may very well dislike things about me that my previous self didn't have to worry about. The only option to solve this was obvious.

I have to reject her. This was ironic, as I was normally on the side of being rejected. Either way, I'll have to be careful when I do it. If I were to mishandle it, I could end up alienating her and destroying whatever chance I had in gaining information about my current situation in Sobu while hurting her in the process.

But… how exactly do I go about this?

There's no real way to do it without her being hurt in some way. The thing is, I don't want to hurt her. She doesn't deserve it, this version of her anyway. I never really had to hold the Miura of my world in much consideration to be honest, but this version of Miura seemed nicer, more considerate, more… genuine.

I'm probably getting ahead of myself. Maybe my opinion is just biased now that I know of her affections towards me, but not me. What a situation I find myself in…

I sense a sudden vibration inside my pocket that ends almost as instantly as it starts. Wait, I recognize that, that's my phone, isn't it? It must be a message. But who's sending me a message now? Did Komachi forget something?

I carefully take out my cell phone, trying not to catch anyone's attention. With the first step a success, I then proceed to flip it open. There was a message, the sender: Ms Annoying Bitch.

Ack… I should probably change that name already… I glance towards Miura, she was looking at me at the corner of her eye. I'll change it right away before reading the message. After doing so, I glance around warily before opening the message.

Hachiman, you look cute right now. (｡◕‿‿◕｡)

I clear my throat, my cheeks gaining some heat. Geez, this girl has gotten surprisingly bold. Was she like this with Hayama back in my world? Probably not, she really valued the status quo of her clique so she wouldn't risk it by flirting with him. He's not an idiot, he's probably known she liked him since the beginning. I wonder what that the idiotic fake did to keep her at bay, that hypocrite probably did find her useful since she could scare off other girls. Tch, just thinking about asking him for advice makes my stomach lurch.

Now that I think about it, what does this version of Miura Yumiko think of Hayama Hayato? I'll have to ask her later. Must be in a good place since she's referred to him by his given name before.

It was surprisingly tough to convince her to enter the class first earlier so we could avoid any sort of misunderstanding, but I'm beginning to suspect she doesn't really care about that sort of thing. It's something that I can appreciate, but still find weird coming from her.

Still, she was quite rude to Sairenji before that. I guess that means she only acts nice with those that matter to her. It's understandable, but that doesn't mean she should mistreat everyone else. But am I really one to talk?

And talking about Sairenji, I was actually surprised when she admitted to have purposefully bumped into me just so she could verify Yuuki's claims. Despite that she seems pathetically shy, she must have some of guts to actually do that sort of thing with someone with my alleged reputation. It could have easily backfired had it been my other self who confronted that situation instead. That certainly improved my impression on her, I guess. Only a little though, she still had that stupid wishy washy attitude of hers.

About Yuuki though, I didn't expect to hear Sairenji revealing that he got into troubles often trying to defend the reputation of this world's Hachiman. That guy was just too nice for his own good, or maybe he did value him, me… whatever. I guess he isn't as bad as I thought.

I still don't like him though. He's really annoying.

I sigh, pocketing my cell phone back into my pants. I should at least try to look like I'm listening to Hiratsuka-sensei. Don't really want her to call on me so I can look like an idiot in front of everyone.

Hmm? Was it just me or was Yuigahama looking at me? No, I probably imagined that. She's doesn't seem to like me much in this world.

I feel my mood fall at that. That's something that I especially hate about this new world. I wasn't completely sure how I saw Yuigahama back in mine, but I did know that she mattered to me. Seeing her avoid me now bothers me a lot more than I expected, Yukinoshita too, her antagonism didn't help in the slightest.

I sigh miserably, like everything else, that's something I can't control. I should just get back to pretending to pay attention.

2-7

The ring bell announces the start of lunch break. That meant one thing.

I observe Miura, who was texting on her phone. She seemed really focused on it for some reason. Well, I wasn't about to talk to her in the middle of the class. I guess I'll just wait for her. I look around, Totsuka was gone, and so was Kawasaki. Tobe and those two unimportant characters were nowhere to be seen. It made me wonder, maybe the clique that existed in my world might not in this one. I look back up to see Yuigahama leave together with Hayama.

I narrow my eyes, a spurt of irritation growing within me. Tch… I don't think I'll ever get used to this sight. I certainly don't have the right to decide who Yuigahama should get along with, but her being with Hayama by themselves just doesn't sit well with me.

I get to my feet, trying to ignore this disgusting feeling and silently tread out of the class. I'll just wait for Miura outside instead, I guess. Outside, I make my way to the corner of the corridor, leaning back against the wall. I glance across at the door of my class, yet there's no sign of her appearing. I wonder who she was messaging.

"Psst!" I blink at the sudden sound, "Psst!" There it was again. I scan my surroundings, trying to notice from where the sound originated. "Psst! Hey, Hachiman! Over here."

I turn to my far left, where the stairs are. Is it coming from there? I slowly step towards them and look up, finally seeing a fat blob just sitting on the steps. No wait, that's no blob. That's Zaimokuza, oh great, I know him here too? What the hell are you doing there? You're blocking the way for other students dammit. And why are you acting covert when you're open for everyone to see?

Seriously, Zaimokuza Yoshiteru seems to be the same gross guy I knew. So far… at least. He still wears that stupid trench coat here too. Well, even for an otaku, to have white hair is weird enough, even if you tie it into a ponytail. Seriously, if you were going for light hair at least have it as silver as Totsuka's, idiot. Ah~ Totsuka's hair is angelical.

Geh… He's coming over and reaching into his trench coat. He's not gonna make me read his trashy light novels here too, is he? I don't want to deal with that nauseating experience.

"Heh, as expected of my rival! You managed to find me despite that I cast my Shadow Fade Illusion!" I stare at him blankly as he fixes his glasses, "Impressive Hachiman. You're indeed worthy of being called my rival!"

"No, you were just sitting on the steps like an idiot," I deadpan. "Seriously, at least try to actually hide if you want to say that kind of crap. What do you want?"

Zaimokuza scratches his head, and folds his arms, "Hmph, I am simply here to return to you you're precious item of your collection. I very much enjoyed it." I have a bad feeling when he mentions 'my' collection, I really hope it's not what I think it is.

I see him reach deeply in his pockets in search of whatever he supposedly borrowed from me. Ugh… He even looks gross doing that, I feel like he's going to pull out a figurette of his favorite idol and wheeze over it. Hurry up already.

"Ahah! I have found it!" He shouts loudly, bringing on annoyed stares towards us. Oi, keep it down you failure of an author. Loners don't purposefully gather people's attention, you idiot.

"...What?" I feel uneasy. He couldn't possibly have brought what I think he did, and why would he reveal it in public? Is he trying to make us look like perverts?

"You're precious treasure is in the same state as when I was given it," He gives me an arrogant smirk before showing me an eroge. Ehh… I really don't want to touch it. Zaimokuza was right that it was in good shape but I don't want to have an eroge that he approves of. Hell, I wouldn't want it anyway, I've never been the type to like that sort of thing. My regular 'research' material was good enough for me, playing eroges were another level I was never interested in following. Maybe because it would be too pathetic for me to do so.

"…Yeah," I reluctantly reach out and get a hold of the eroge. I look down at it… What the hell is this? Did I really own this sort of thing? I don't have a real problem with this sort of interest but I wouldn't imagine actually wasting money and buying something revolving catgirls. Besides, 3-D wasn't really my style.

I quickly hide the embarrassing item under my blazer, glancing around to make sure no one saw it. I assume the looks of disgust directed at us are probably because of Zaimokuza and the fact that I'm hated, not because they see the eroge… I hope.

"Thanks I guess," I say after clearing my throat. "So, er… Anything else?"

Zaimokuza cocks an eyebrow, "What do you mean, Hachiman?"

I narrow my gaze. It seemed I was in decent enough terms with him despite that I was hated, then again, I could see that people didn't look at him any better. It's not really surprising considering that even in my own world, people didn't see him in a good light due to his eccentric personality.

"Uh… nothing really." I mutter, hearing some steps behind me. I pale, suspecting who might that be.

"Mou… Hachiman why didn't you wait for me?" I feel a small pang in my chest hearing that, but immediately dismiss it. I have to stop thinking about my world, it'll just be pointlessly painful if I don't.

I sigh and turn back to a pouting Miura. Ack, I have to up my defenses for this girl. Her surprisingly cute expressions will be the death of me if I don't. I hear a pathetic groan behind me. Now, there's someone who's not happy about this too. I glance back to Zaimokuza, who was exuding a depressing aura.

With his head lowered, his face hidden by the shadows, I begin to tense. If I have to guess, I can assume that hearing Miura calling me by my name, followed by that troublesome dialogue, struck a chord within his pathetic existence.

"M-Miura, uh, well… You were… busy on your phone… right?" I manage to make a lame excuse, looking back at my blonde companion, "I'm not one to interrupt people, you know?."

She bit her lip, totally ignoring Zaimokuza's presence. "C-call me Yumiko…" Her face is red again, and if the heat on my cheeks is anything to go by, then I'm probably getting red too. Damn it, woman! Just don't spread your embarrassment to me! I hear another pathetic whimper behind me, courtesy of the school's resident chuuni.

"That's… Uh…" I mutter awkwardly, I had no idea how to respond to that. Just because you decided to call me by my name on your own doesn't mean I should too dammit! Think of the implications it will generate! "…Not a good idea."

She glares at me, taking a step forward, "Why not? I, like, call you by yours, so it's only natural for you to do so too, you know?" She starts twirling a finger in a lock of hair.

"It's not that simple," I retort. I have to be careful with my response, I don't want to say something stupid and piss her off. "I… I'm not… good… with that sort of thing…"

That was true, I've never thought I'd ever address by the first name anyone but Komachi. I already have my plate full with Utaha, who in a weird twist of irony, is now someone who I must address on a first name basis. Adding Miura into that is just too much… She's someone from my world, someone I already share a near nonexistent relationship with. Not necessarily bad but nowhere near good. So having our relationship be this dramatically different is something I can't handle well. Using her given name is obviously something I'm not capable of doing right now, if ever.

"Well… Maybe it is a little pushy…" Miura doesn't look particularly happy but she does seem to be understanding my words. I inwardly sigh in relief, she's being surprisingly considerate right now. I just hope she and Utaha don't meet again any time soon, I'll never hear the end of it once she finds out about our first name usage. Utaha doesn't seem to like her, and I can only think Miura is on the same page.

"H-Hachiman, how dare you…" I blink, slowly turning my head as I can hear Zaimokuza mumbling, "Is she calling you by your first name? One of the most popular girls in school? I didn't want to believe the rumors but it seems it's true. This is an utter betrayal…"

"It's not," I reply instantly, waving my hand with disinterest. "It's all in your head. I'm actually using my own…" I didn't want it to come to this but it's necessary. I narrow my eyes, raising a hand. "Illusory technique on you…" I then went on to explain this false technique of mine. Man this is so embarrassing…

This reminds me of my own chuunibyou period in my younger years, which is something I really want to purge from my memories. I don't even want to recall the time I actually cosplayed as some sort of dark lord or whatever. It's funny, in a twisted sort of way, that not even as a chuunibyou did I manage to find another one with the same interests I held then, yet, in high school I did find one when I was no longer searching.

Bad memories I have to bury.

"Eh…? What the heck are you talking about, Hachiman?" Miura asks, scratching her cheek. She was probably lost with what I said, heck, I wasn't even sure what I was saying. I just needed to convince this idiot that I'm still 'like him.' Ugh… I feel gross just thinking about that.

Zaimokuza lowers his gaze and smirks. "Hoh… that was unexpected." Fixing his glasses, He folds his arms, assuming a haughty posture. "As expected of my rival."

"That doesn't make any sense, idiot," I grumble. How can you expect something if you didn't expect it in the first place? Or was he expecting not expecting it? Then that means that he was expecting not expecting that he expected it? Tch, now I'm thinking like an utter idiot. Curse you, mindless TV shows I watched during my free time!

"Hmph, no matter! Now that the package has been delivered, I shall take my leave now, farewell Hachiman!" With a large smirk and some sort of weird salute Zaimokuza finally leaves the stage. That guy… How dramatic can you get?

"That guy's, like, really gross." I hear Miura's distaste as she coldly sees the chuuni walk off.

"Well… He might act like that, but he's not that bad of guy sometimes." He's still pretty gross though.

"Heh…" Miura makes a pondering voice, but I doubt she really took my words to heart. Well that's fine, even if she somehow saw him in a better light Zaimokuza would freeze up should she ever try to talk to him.

"Should we go then?" I offer now that we're alone. Miura reddens slightly and averts her gaze. Huh? Did I say something weird? Why is she acting embarrassed all of a sudden?

"S-sure." She turns around and begins to briskly walk towards the stairs that lead to the rooftop in this building. She must really embarrassed since she just walked away without waiting for me. I think I know why now. She's remembering her confession. She probably doesn't want to be alone with me since I haven't answered her yet. Wah… I'm going to totally get embarrassed if I remember it too.

I frown to myself as I walk behind her, considerate enough to give her some space. This is really going to be a tough thing to deal with. If she doesn't give me an opportunity to reject her, then she'll be delaying the inevitable until her own anxiety begins to hurt her more than my rejection ever could.

As we move, I begin to notice the surprised reactions of every person that lay an eye on us. Others sported confusion, and even jealousy. Huh, not that surprising considering with whom I'm walking with, but still bothersome.

Having almost reached the last set of stairs, Miura comes to a stop, looking at her side as a smile crawls into her face. She hurriedly paces towards someone that was familiar to me, and heck, I actually felt sort of relieved upon recognizing her.

Curly shoulder-length brownish hair tied in twin braids, a fringe cut short and parted to the left part of her pretty face, donned with three pink hair clips. Just as I remembered, it was none other that Shiromeguri Meguri.

She smiles brightly at our arrival, looks like even here I'm not safe from her super Megu Megu Megurin~ powers…

I shake my head, regaining my composure to refocus on the weird pairing. Miura actually greeted her so casually that I can't help but think that they're close. This was a surprise, I've never even seen them interact with each other outside the cultural festival back in my world, I never would have thought they'd be friends here. I just stood there observing them as they started fondly chatting between each other. Hey, I'm here too, you know?

And before I knew it, the odd duo stared at me. Miura sported a rather shy expression as she gazed at me over her shoulder, Shiromeguri in contrast was frowning slightly as if only just registering my presence. Wait a minute, this is the first time I see Shiromeguri sporting such a face. Huh… she probably doesn't like me either. How awkward, she looks to want to stay in Miura's company right now. What do I do about this?

Well, let's see how she treats me and go from there. I level Shiromeguri with a simple gaze, inviting her to say something first.

"Hikigaya-kun?" She begins but stops herself, glancing between both Miura and me, looking consternated. "You're…" I blink as she seems at loss for words.

"What is it?" She blinks in surprise, which is odd. "…something wrong, Shiromeguri-senpai?"

She seems even more startled, and glances at Miura, who nods back at her. What's with these reactions? Are they actually sending among themselves mental messages!? I knew women could do that! Females are terrifying beings!

Shiromeguri looks back at me, her frown remaining, "You're different somehow…"

"I told you Meguri, he's totally been acting a little different since yesterday," Miura whispers to her, but I can still hear it. Hey, at least try to whisper about me when I'm not around. It's obvious, you know?

Miura also referred Shiromeguri by her first name. This is actually a refreshing change since it's not me this time, looking at these two though, they seem to be opposites regarding their treatment of others. Miura was rather mean, while Shiromeguri was kind and friendly to almost everyone. Just how did these two become friends?

"Okay, okay, whatever…" I say nonchalantly, turning around as if uncaring.

"Hachiman," I cringe at her irresponsible way of using my name, and slowly turned to them. Shiromeguri looked so shocked at Miura that it was worth noting. I mean, should someone as bubbly as her be reacting like that? Stop it, Hachiman. Again you're placing your expectations on someone when you shouldn't. This version of Shiromeguri may be different. "I… I, like, told you that Meguri was my best friend, right?"

"Is that so?" I gaze at her, raising an eyebrow. "That's fine, I guess…"

"Yumiko-chan? You called him by his name just now…" Shiromeguri says uncertainly, and I see why she does seem surprised. If they are friends, then she must be aware of how badly I treated her before, I mean, how badly my past self did. It would explain her overreaction at least.

Miura smiles brightly, her cheeks glowing red, "Y-yeah. I can't, like, believe it either…" either

Man, this is getting annoying, "Oi," They turn to me and I'm caught off guard by their curious gazes. "I'm… er… getting hungry here, so… should we go already?" I look at the blonde, "Miura you brought your food, right?"

Miura blinks but nods happily, "I did, Hachiman. But it may be too much for me, so I'm, like, totally gonna have to share it with Meguri." I notice Shiromeguri repetitively glancing between us in disbelief. Stop repeating my name dammit! It's already embarrassing hearing you say it, and having Shiromeguri here to hear it is making it worse!

I clear my throat, "Will you be coming with us, Shiromeguri-senpai? If you had anything else to do…"

She shakes her head frenetically, "No, no! I don't! Please let me come with you!" She grabs Miura's hand, and whisper something to her ear, which caused both of their faces to redden.

What was that?

"I-idiot…" Miura stutters, pulling Shiromeguri with her pass me. I stood there, confused. "D-don't just stand there, H-Hachiman, let's go."

I sigh, scratching my head. This is going to be a pain. I nod anyway and follow the now gossiping girls. They often turned to me, Miura giggling and Shiromeguri gracing me with a coy smile. I averted my gaze, that's a pretty dangerous smile there, senpai.

After some uncomfortable minutes, for me anyway, we reached the door of the rooftop. Finally, this was getting too long, and the gazes we received along the way were becoming much more obvious and intimidating. What kind of people are attending Sobu anyway?

I walk past them and reach into the doorknob to open the door. Hmm? It didn't bulge. Just great, it was closed. I turn to them with a blank expression and shrug my shoulders.

"Eh? It's closed?" Shiromeguri frowns.

"Mou, just when we…" She stops herself, becoming flustered. "J-just where are we supposed to eat to now?"

Shiromeguri tilts her head, a hand on her cheek, "How unfortunate. The rooftop is one of the few places where nobody really hangs out to."

"Which was, like, totally perfect for us," Miura growled.

I observed them and avert my gaze, scratching my cheek. I knew a place for us to use, but I wasn't sure if I wanted to share it with them. But I might just have to, with there being no other else left to go. I clear my throat, gathering their attention.

I kept looking elsewhere as I spoke uneasily, "Well… there might just be another good spot," They blink before smiling, both leaning towards me. Oi, oi! Don't get so close when you can clearly hear me already. "Ah, I'll… uh, lead the way."

2-8

"This is it," I led the two to my usual safe haven. Looks like it's just as empty as usual, nice and quiet. Hmm, if I'm remembering right, the usual draft is about to come.

"Heh… Hachiman, how'd you know about this place?" Miura seems impressed about the spot, and looking over at Shiromeguri, she looks to be on the same page. Not surprising, as a loner I can find the best spots without a single soul to bother me. Ah~ Being a loner sure has it's advantages.

"I like coming here when I want to be on my own." I reply. That is true, but I was sure to respond in a way to imply that I choose to be here sometimes rather than have this place be my hangout. I don't know how social I'm supposed to be in school, so that's broad enough to at least answer that.

"Eh? Isn't that a little lonely?" I see Shiromeguri ask me innocently. I can see why she thinks that as a more social person.

"Not really, the best company you can have is yourself after all." I respond. The two exchange brief glances with each other. Oops, they might see that as a weird thing to say. "Besides… I like this place. It's peaceful," I add. Hah… The path of a loner is a hard one to understand.

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Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 02Section: Song 06

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Looks like that was better seeing them both nod in understanding now. I sit down on the right side of the staircase, the others sit together on my left flank. Miura of course, sits in rather close in proximity to me.

Shiromeguri blinks, noticing Miura's bold intent. What was that? Did I just see a frown on your face there senpai? I know it may seem inappropriate, but this isn't my fault. She notices my gaze and strangely enough, averts her gaze from me with a tiny jump. That was exceedingly cute, yet all the same startling.

I shrug my shoulders and open my bento. I observe it closely, noticing the extreme care of the food inside it. Belldandy prepared it for me, and while I first tried to refuse to take it when she called out to me before I left, her saddened face just couldn't let me do it. Curse her cuteness!

I grab a couple of diced potatoes with the chopsticks. They… taste… great! I continue to dig in my food, tasting the flavours of this exquisite food. There's no way I can cook better than this! If I actually did, I'd be so pleasantly surprised.

"Hikigaya-kun, you do seem to be enjoying yourself," Shiromeguri giggles, peeking at me. "Did you make that food yourself?"

I almost choked at that. I pounded my chest to make the food pass, before coughing twice. Miura looked at me suspiciously, Shiromeguri tilted her head confused by my reaction. As I catch my breath, I try to calm myself.

"K-Komachi did…" I managed to give a reply but Miura blinks, before she frowns at me.

"Who's Komachi…?" She asks sternly.

Surprisingly, Shiromeguri was the one to answer that question, "Komachi-chan is Hikigaya-kun's younger sister." Miura turns to her with a bothered face and Shiromeguri squeaks in surprise, "W-What?"

"Why do you know that while I don't?" She asks menacingly and I break out in cold sweat. There it was again, the scary Miura Yumiko I knew, "Meguri… how do you know?"

Shiromeguri waves her hands frenetically, "I-I just happened to meet her when I went to some store! Hikigaya-kun showed up later on! That's all!" Miura's scowl deepened as she began to pulling her on her cheeks.

"Meguriiiii! Why didn't you tell me this before!?"

"I-it hurts, Yumi-chan. S-stop it!" Shiromeguri whines. For my part, I can't help but huff at their odd way of getting along.

"You know how important he is to m- Eek!" Miura had stopped, probably realizing what she just said in front of me. Man, now this is embarrassing. I suppress my blush as best I could but still manage to show some discomfort.

Silence ensues and Miura remains looking down and away from me blushing fiercely, Shiromeguri was of course, rubbing her own reddened cheeks. It sure is nice to see Megu Megu Megurin~ with her cheeks that red, even if the cause for them is the pinch assault Miura just gave her.

As for Miura… shit… Am I really that important to her? Eh… I mean, is the Hachi… bah… Now that I'm in his shoes, I might as well accept it, after all, she only confessed because I gave her that chance, while she couldn't have done so before as my previous self kept her away. This was my fault, I should have been able to see it coming.

"...Yeah. Komachi had some spare food left and gave some to me." The lie is good enough, I wasn't going to mention Belldandy. That's just asking for trouble.

"That was surprisingly nice of her to do," Shiromeguri smiles as she says so.

I pause eating momentarily before resuming. Surprisingly? What was that supposed to mean? I nod dumbly at Shiromeguri and continue my meal.

"Eh? Do they, like, not get along or something?" Miura asks in surprise. I try my best to look uncaring, but I still keep my attention on Shiromeguri.

Shiromeguri blinks and briefly gazes at me before continuing, "Eh… It's not like they don't, but it's like they're a little distant from each other, you know?"

"What do you mean, Meguri?" Miura had her head tilted in confusion. Mm… there's something about this that sounds wrong…

Meguri seemed a little uneasy. She looked over at me and I made sure to not look discouraging to her conversation. She sighed in relief.

"I'm not really sure… I might just be thinking too much about it, but Komachi-chan was a little shyer once Hikigaya-kun showed up."

I didn't want to accept it; I noticed it, but I just didn't want to completely acknowledge it. It wasn't like she really hid it when we were on our own, but I suppose I tried to hide from it seeing how more vocal Komachi has become with Deviluke and Belldandy now around. But knowing this, I have decided to change that. I'll be the brother that the alternate version of myself failed to be.

Now, why does Shiromeguri know about this topic? I could come up with plenty theories about it, but I know that trying to do so will be just a waste of time as my knowledge about this life is little, next nothing really. It's so unnerving, I feel so impotent. Damn it…

I avert my gaze, trying to not force anything more out of Shiromeguri about this matter.

"Hachiman…" Miura starts before stopping. I blinked and turned to her, "C-can I taste your food?" She gives me a look not unlike a begging dog's. Hold it! I wasn't prepared for such an aggressive assault!

"Uh…" As I try to find what to say, I notice Shiromeguri pouting at her side. I have no idea what's going through Miura's head, nor Shiromeguri's if I'm honest, but I believe that refusing to comply could only end in death. I quickly reach the best option to avoid any sort of trouble.

I hand my bento over towards Miura before standing up, "Sure… I wasn't really that hungry anyway…" Damn this life! This is the worst separation I've had to endure! I already miss you, Bento-san! "You two can eat it."

Shiromeguri pouts again, "But I don't want to get fat…"

Tch, really? I thought you wanted some too… what was the point in pouting then senpai? I frown then as Miura only stares down at the bento, her cheeks absurdly red. What was she looking at? I see her grab my chopsticks. Hey, wait, what are you doing? T-that's…

Without a warning, Miura started digging in the food, her green eyes shot open in that instant. her legs trembled as she embraced herself for some reason… Stop it! Don't put on that sort of embarrassing face, it's like you're, er…

"Ahhh~!" She lets out a moan, and I almost double took, "This is so good! Like, really really good!"

Shiromeguri blinked before taking some herself. She grasped Miura's blazer, becoming red as she closed her eyes. What the hell is going on? And before I could ask, the two rampaged through what was left of my bento.

I narrow my gaze as both seem so satisfied that it seems there are stars in their eyes.

"So… you, uh, liked it then…?"

Miura nods her head vigorously, assuming a determined expression, "I need to meet your sister! She cooks almost as good as the chefs in Restaurant Yukihira."

"Really?" I ask uncertainly while Shiromeguri nods.

"Yes, Hikigaya-kun! Let her abandon her studies so she attend a culinary school!" Shiromeguri raises her fists in a cute manner. Despite that, how on earth do you think that's a good idea?

"Cut that out, she's not going to do that," I growl and they exchange glances. I blink as they started to giggle. What's so funny?

"Hehe, looks like I might have been wrong. Hikigaya-kun's looks very protective of Komachi-chan's future." Shiromeguri gives me an easygoing grin while still giggling to herself.

"Yeah, who would have that that Hachiman was totally a sis-con?" Miura laughs.

"Who the heck's a sis-con? It's not like that…" I scratch the back of my head. I swear I'm not a sis-con, it's only natural for a brother to value his sister's future right? She'll find a career and support me for the rest of my life.

"Can we change the subject?"

"Sure!" Shiromeguri nods happily, "So Hikigaya-kun," She looks directly at me eyes. "Are you dating someone as the rumors say?"

Miura's smile immediately evaporates, and I can only stare at my upperclassman, dumbfounded. The tone she used… there was something off in it… but I can't explain it.

"No, I'm not. Why even bother with something like that?" I retort, deliberately avoiding Miura's sharp gaze. "Rumors are just a waste of time… Well, that one is at least…"

"Are you sure?" Miura doesn't sound convinced.

"I am," I coolly respond. She levels me with a stern gaze, but I don't flinch from it. I have no reason to, so I merely stare back at her. Her expression softens, and nods slightly. "Shiromeguri-senpai."

"Mm?" She makes a humming sound.

"Do you happen to know how this rumor started?" This rumor of me dating a girl is getting out of hand. Why are people talking about it if nobody's supposed to care about me? Seems like a waste to start a rumor about someone when their reputation is already in the drain. Talk about beating a dead horse.

"Eh? Umm… I'm not sure… I just heard about it today…" She replies with a ponderous finger on her chin.

I look at Miura, "What about you?"

"Actually, it was Ebina who told me about it on the phone," She blinks in realization, once again taking on an indignant expression, "She said that someone, like, saw you with Yukinoshita's big sister yesterday."

Shit, I'm not sure how to defend that. I'm supposed to be in some sort of twisted relationship with the elder Yukinoshita. But that's something I refuse to go along with.

"Her, huh?" I mutter, of course that demon was involved, "I did run into her yesterday. So?"

They both blink at my dry tone. Now I understand everything behind this rumor. To begin with, anybody would get the wrong idea about the two of us with her shameless clinginess alone, her forward attempts of flirting just hitting the final nail on the coffin. Seriously, Haruno-san's current act is the biggest pain to deal with.

"Is… Is it true?" The indignance had faded from Miura's face, replaced now with… Fear, was it? I could see why, unlike the possibilities of fellow classmates her age, Yukinoshita Haruno-san was already an alumnus that had the look of the perfect woman. It's completely false of course, but for those who hadn't realized it, that facade of hers was very intimidating. I look over and see Shiromeguri with her own face of morbid curiosity.

"Of course not, she's just someone who likes annoying me." The flat tone I use seems to be a sufficient answer. Miura sighs in relief and oddly enough so does Shiromeguri.

I need to clear this misunderstanding. Whatever Ebina was thinking by spreading it is beyond me, but this rumors is getting on my nerves. I can't let it transform into something worse. There's only one thing I can do right for now. I have to nip it in the bud for these two, if they're the only two who I'm going to be regularly interacting with from now on. I need them to understand that the rumor had no weight to it. Whether everyone else believes it doesn't matter so long as Miura and Shiromeguri don't. At least for now.

I crouch down in front of them to be at their height, I need them to listen to me carefully here.

"Miura," I begin, my face was as serious as possible. "Do you trust me?"

She blinks in surprise, before fidgeting and finally nodding her head shyly. That's the response I was expecting, but adding her embarrassment to it, I don't think I'll ever get used to it. Then I turn to my upperclassman.

"Shiromeguri-senpai… No, Shiromeguri," I start.

"Y-yes?" She stutters,

"What do you think about me?" I ask sharply, and to my surprise, her face becomes red. I think she may had misunderstand my question, so before she starts panicking I speak again, "I mean about the rumors and the gossip circulating me. What do you believe?"

I'm not sure how my relationship with Shiromeguri was prior to this day, and I may need to figure it out later, but I need to know who I can count on for now. The stupid game is still in my mind, so I'm not sure if I'll be able to trust them completely, but gathering acquaintances has now become a higher priority. To my surprise, Shiromeguri looks surprisingly serious before answering.

"I believe that there's more to you than just those rumors. Hikigaya-kun…" She begins to smile softly, "You're a good person, and I feel I can trust you. Honest."

"I… see." I avert my gaze, scratching my cheek, I still feel uncomfortable hearing that sort of thing, "…Thanks."

"Y-you didn't thank me… I, like, trusted you long before she did, you know?" Miura whines with a cute pout, and I roll my eyes. But sure enough, a wry smirk comes to my face.

"Yeah… Thanks, Miura." Although this wasn't a competition, you know? I stand straight, hands on my pockets. I observe the blue sky, that doesn't seem any different that the one I used to see. "At the very least, you can both be rest assured that the rumors about me are probably baseless drabble."

They exchanges looks before smiling at me.

2-9

The final bell rings, signaling the end of classes.

I feel my cell phone vibrate for a short moment, another message huh? And it vibrates again… a second one? It's a bit weird to be receiving messages like someone who didn't fail at socializing. Oh, wait. This isn't my life. Figures…

As I pocket out my phone, I see Miura looking at me from the corner of her eye, her pink phone in hand. I flip mine open, coming to see in the screen that I received two messages. The first one is from her.

Do you want to go to Yukihira's with me and Meguri, Hachiman? (^_^)

I glance at her, she's still staring… Am I under watch now? I sigh, wondering what I should do. I still have that meeting with Utaha, she wanted to give me a copy of her book today. I'll guess I'll text her to meet tomorrow. With that done, I text Miura my reply.

Well, I have nothing better to do, so why not?

I glance at her again as she reads my message. She turns at me with a pout before she starts typing again. I feel a vibration once more.

Mou~! Do you have to say it like that…? （￣ε￣）

I can't help but smile wryly at that. I text back again.

Yeah, yeah… but sure. Should I meet you there?

I glance at her as she starts texting. Not even ten seconds pass for her reply to come. She sure is fast.

No, baka Hachiman! We'll go there together! But I'll have to drag Meguri from her student council duties, you know? You can meet us by the school gates. （＾ω＾）

Oh, yeah, Shiromeguri was still the student council president now that I think about it.

Will do.

After reading my reply, Miura stands up, picking up her school bag and leaves the class, not before sending me a wink and a bright smile. Good grief, that girl sure is bold.

I chuckle slightly, grabbing my belongings, stuffing my bag with them and heading out of the class. As I did, I noticed Kawasaki in her seat a few desks across from me, texting someone. Maybe Nibutani?

She suddenly raises her head and gives me a nod, acknowledging me. I nod back reflexively, looks like we know each other here too. I'll have to check in about that at a later time.

I head out of class while ignoring the usual gazes of hatred from everyone else. It's odd, but after the meeting in lunch, the looks don't bother me as much.

That reminds me I got a second message didn't I? Let's see what it says.

Hey Hachiman, I need to talk with you. This is a matter of life and death. Our whole future depends on it. I'm starting a project and I'm gonna need your help. Let's discuss it later at the usual spot now that it's open.

The sender… Aki Tomoya, huh? I remember Yuuki mentioning him yesterday, something about letting us meet a famous author or something. Looks like he wants to meet up… Forget it, he'll have to wait. I'll pretend that I didn't see it if he complains about it later. Wait a minute… Aki…? Utaha did mentioned his name in the morning too. I guess she was right about him trying something to drag me to his project.

I already feel like rejecting his incoming proposal, but I just can't get ahead of myself. I'll decide what to do about that later on.

Well with that out of the way, I guess I'll head to my…

My phone vibrates before I can even pocket it. What now? Hmm… Takao? This person texted me last morning right? I think it was something about being depressed. A weird thing to see, but let's see what this is about.

Hachiman? You didn't reply yesterday. Is everything okay? You normally answer me, did something happen? I still don't feel okay, and I really need a friend right now, but I don't want to put more weight on your shoulders. Still, please let me know you're okay. I hope you didn't get hurt again…

This person… Takao must be a girl, no doubt. Now, the thing is… she seems to be abnormally close to me. The swarm of questions she's asked is something more than what mere acquaintances would ask about. Even Utaha wasn't this inquisitive. If it wasn't for the fact that she mentioned 'friend,' I would have thought that we were more than that. Yet another uncomfortable new aspect of this world.

I note with a bit of weariness that I'm slowly becoming used to others using my name in this new world. Perfect…

Anyway, it seems she knows that I've gotten hurt before, although I'm still not sure how. She might know a little more about this supposed fighting experience I have. But for all I know, it could be something else. I'll have to keep her in mind either way.

Maybe I should message her back so she could stop nagging me.

Ah, my bad. I was just sort of busy yesterday. I'm fine. I'll talk to you once I'm free.

That should suffice. With that done, I head to my locker and get my shoes. Those bastards better have not messed with them again. I only have one last pair and it's still Tuesday… My phone vibrates again just as I stopped in front of the lockers. It was that girl again, Takao.

Okay. I'm glad to hear from you. Talk to me soon~ (⌒_⌒)

Mmm, well… at least she won't be a problem for now.

I reach my locker to see it nearly overflowing with letters again. Huh… Looks like this is going to be a regular occurrence. I make sure to double check them, in case one is actually important. They weren't. Most of them said 'Go die!' and 'Scum!' again. Not really much different from yesterday's bunch. Wait, what's this one say?

I thought we told you to fuck off already! You better watch your back Hiki-mushi! This is your fucking fault now!

Looks like this was a continuation of yesterday's threat. Honestly, how are stereotypical delinquents in Sobu? It might be those meatheads in the sports clubs trying to coast through school with their athleticism and subpar grades. They're probably stupid enough to think they'll be able to get scholarships. Idiots. Hurry up and drop out already.

I move to toss these letters away, now that I think about it, I can try tossing that eroge Zaimokuza gave me too. Nah, if Hiratsuka-sensei's comment about my other self bringing hentai is true, this thing will probably be traced back to me by tomorrow morning. I'm not planning to subject myself to that kind of embarrassment.

It was when I reach the trashcan that I feel a sudden shiver run down my spine. I freeze then and there. What the hell? I feel like I'm being watched. No, worse than that… I feel like a mouse in front of a lion. I can feel the ill intent from wherever the gaze was coming from.

And just as quickly this sense of dread emerges, it soon fades.

Once gone, I finally feel myself relax. I thoroughly analyze my surroundings. After making sure nothing was out of place, I release the breath I hadn't realized I was holding. My heart was racing… Man, I need to relax.

But… What the hell was that anyway?

I'm going to have to be careful for now. Looks like my Reflection was right about me having enemies here, but to think that it'd be the violent sort… That was unexpected. I guess having this new body might just be an advantage should something occur.

I toss away the letters and go back to my locker. Well, at least my shoes are fine this time. I change back into them and slowly exit the building. I have to keep an eye out, whoever was looking at me earlier could try something out here. So much for feeling safe in this private school. I look around, nothing seemed particularly strange.

Well, it does look clear out here. I'll get my bike and wait by the gate for Miura and Shiromeguri. Crap, I hope they don't get dragged into anything just for talking to me. I don't need that sort of guilt should something happen to them.

I walk with wary steps to the bicycle parking area. It was eerily silent… I'll just hurry and get my bike before…

Wait… Where's my bike? The hell? The lock is broken. Shit. What kind of joke is this? Someone seriously stole my bike? Huh, what's that?

---

Go to profile, SEE: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 02Section: Picture 04

---

There was a piece of paper on the ground, near my broken lock.

Looking for your shitty byke, asshole?

I bend down, narrowing my gaze as I noticed the paper was taped to the cement, the feeling of dread I had before emerging once more, much to my chagrin. I stand still at the sound of some steps echoing in the empty area.

Sighing, I turn around.

I spot someone standing a couple of meters away from me, it was some red-haired guy that wore Sobu's uniform. He glared at me, hands in his pockets. I did just the same, remaining silent. I try to reign in my trepidation as best I could. Whatever was about to occur, I need to be extra careful here.

Suddenly, the guy smirks, walking away. I slowly takes some steps towards his direction, suspecting this guy was the one behind my bicycle's disappearance. The terrified part of my mind is telling me to just go to the gate and make up some excuse about losing my bike, but I don't listen to it. I have to get it back.

Many times have I let bullies get away with their pranks during middle school, but I'm not about to endure that now, much less in a world to where I don't belong to. I refuse to be victimized further more than I've already been.

The guy turns and walks behind the building, I warily observe my surroundings before following him. Reaching the turn, I see something in the distance. Whatever it was, it was right next to the gymnasium. The student was nowhere to be seen now… Looks like he got away. But as I near the gym I do see my bike leaning against the wall. It looks fine from here.

I quickly approach what seems my bicycle, and upon reaching it, I had to grit my teeth. It was completely destroyed. There was no way for it to be repaired. You bastards, apologize to my old man's wallet right now!

I pick up some of pieces, examining them. What am I even doing? It's not like I have the slightest idea what these pieces are. Seriously, this is going too far.

"Look who's here. The most popular guy in the whole school," I slowly stand up, looking over my shoulder at a group of five students approaching, the guy I followed in between them.

Shit… This might be trouble.

I turn to face them, they're all at least a good head taller than me. I can see their sports bags casually hanging on their shoulders. So I was right, it was the the meatheads in the sports clubs.

"Like the custom job we did on your bike, Hiki-mushi?" They all laugh at that. It wasn't even a funny joke you idiots. Huh, it looks like the redhead I followed is the leader of this group.

I remain silent, and simply stand my ground. While I try to look unimpressed on the outside, I can feel my heart begin to beat faster. My head was going into overdrive trying to figure out any possible way to get out of this. No such luck though, the five begin to form a semicircle in front of me. Shit…

"What? Don't have some smart ass thing to say?" One of the other idiots speaks up. I still don't answer and simply level him with a dry look. What the hell am I doing? I'm just digging a bigger hole for myself! The sneer that's growing on his face confirms my theory.

"What's with that look, bastard!?" Another shouts furiously, "What? You think you're tough shitbag?"

The red haired one in the middle is also glaring at me. Quite scarily actually. Geez…

"I just don't get it. A shitty guy like you scored a hot Onee-san but you're still chasing after Yumiko-chan? What's with that?" He looks seething. And 'Yumiko-chan,' really? Talk about overstepping boundaries. Tch, I don't know why I have to answer to him. The bastard will probably still try something even if I do.

"Who knows…? Maybe it's because I actually have a brain?" I smirk, "The latest trends say that's found more attractive nowadays."

Wah… What the hell am I doing? I may have actually just dug my own grave with that. Good going, Hachiman. Observing their furious expressions, I may just be right about that. Great…

One of them suddenly shortened the distance, and I step back in surprise. Seriously, what am I going to do? I've never gotten in a fight before! And as he launches a fist directed at my face, I ducked before it hit, elbowing him on the head as I stand up, dumbfounded. The guy simply crashed on the ground, his face meeting the dirt.

What the? Did I… Did I really do that? I moved so fast, and doing it came out so naturally. I stare at my hands before sensing another arrival from my blindspot.

Instinctively, I sidestepped, using the momentum of the next attacker against him. As he passed by me, I pulled him onward from his blazer before extending my foot in his path. I manage to trip the guy, destabilizing him and making him fall hard on the ground, a cloud of dust spreading from the point of impact.

I let out a breath as the two that attacked me began to slowly stand up, looking surprised, and even more pissed.

"So he's not a pushover after all," Their leader commented, still smirking. This guy, I really want to shut him up. His confidence is based solely on the fact that they outnumber me, and that's pretty pathetic. He motioned his head at the two grunts by his sides.

Without warning, the two lunge at me. I made a quick crossguard, stopping the first attack. I grunted, yet still retained my ground, forcing a step forward as I shoved away the first bastard. I couldn't even catch my breath as I had to duck under another punch, delivered by the other offender. I used this chance to launch a blow right to his stomach, making him double over before delivering a swift uppercut to his chin. Like before, this came instinctively to me, I honestly had no idea how I was doing it.

I stepped back, waiting for another attack. The guy, the leader, didn't looked as amused anymore. He nervously observed his companions, one laid unconscious on the ground, the three others back next to him were bruised and bloody. I had to blink at that too, as I actually managed to knock one out. This was amazing…

"Enough games!" The redhead took of his blazer. "Grab him!"

The three nodded at his command and dashed towards me. I kicked the closest one, stomping his gut as hard as my leg could manage before I felt a grip on my left arm. I glared at the one trying to twist my arm and punched him in the face, yet he didn't relent. I did so again and again, before I felt a strong blow on the back of my legs, forcing me to fall on my knees.

I grunted in pain, and tried to shove away the one still holding my arm before I realized that both of my arms were restrained now. I tried to break free but it was to no avail. These two bastard were pushing their weight on me, not even allowing me to stand on my feet. There goes my futile resistance.

I growled, still trying to escape from the deathlock I was being subjected to. The mastermind behind this trap cockily steps up to me, before crouching just before me. To my ire, he casually shrugs his shoulders.

"You did this to yourself, dumbass. We told you to get out of Sobu, but you didn't listen," I glared at him. "What? You knew this was going to happen."

"I… also know that you're pathetic," I pant out with a sneer. "Resorting to this kind of thing, it's no wonder you can't get Miura to even notice you. I mean… Yumiko. Heh, who's the real dumbass here?"

The red-haired bastard obviously falls for my taunt and backhands me, hard. My vision began spinning, if only for a few seconds. I shake my head and look at him defiantly.

"Don't you realize your position?" He forcefully grabs my face, "For all I know, you could be just threatening her, you fucking piece of shit!"

I chuckle, feeling the grip on my arms getting stronger. Still, I voice him a piece of my mind.

"Struck a nerve, did I?" I smirk cockily. I know I should shut my mouth, but at this point, I may as well let my suppressed anger ventilate as much as I can. "No matter what you do, it won't change the fact that I have what you never will. Hit me all you want, but just know that Yumiko will never be yours."

That did it.

"Hold the fucker tight!" The readhead roared before grabbing the collar of my t-shirt. Then he raised a hand, making a fist. Funnily enough, his fist was shadowed from my sight due to the bright rays of the sun hitting me… How pointlessly twisted.

Then, his fist crashed against my face. It hurt, but I was too pissed to care. Then that same fist fell on my face once more, and this time I felt dazed.

And the punches continued still, one after another, my blood staining his knuckles as he kept on and on. I felt disoriented, my ears ringing, my vision fading with each passing second. I lost my breath for several seconds after more punches landed on my chest and my stomach… Damn it…

So… this is how it felt, huh? Having my ass kicked. It doesn't hurt as much as I thought it would, but I guess I can thank my fading consciousness for that. Still, I feel all my strength gradually leave my body.

The guy stepped back, panting heavily, "Let him go… That should be enough."

"Heh, serves you right, disgusting bastard," Another of them comment, laughing after that.

I could barely hear them by this point. All I could do was to remain there, kneeling with my gaze looking down at the ground. How naive of me to think that I could get out of this, not even with this new body would I have been able to stop this beating. Damn it…

"Just leave him there," The voice that has been imprinted into my mind spoke, their leader. "We did some justice for Sobu. Yumiko-chan may even thank me."

So this is it? This is how it'll end? Was I letting them go just like that? Was I that pathetic? If it was that damn fake Hero, he would have found a way out. So why can't I? Tch, I don't deserve any of this… What would Yukinoshita and Yuigahama from my world think of me if they saw me like this? Was I really the guy that someone as headstrong as Miura Yumiko liked? Would that alternate bastard version of myself have been able to pull this off? What makes him any better than me?

Move... Come on… Move… Hurry up and move already! DO SOMETHING FOR ONCE AND MOVE DAMMIT!

Finally I force my body back up. I grit my teeth, hard. I stomped forward, hard. I glared at the redhead, hard. There was something I had to do. For once, I wouldn't be a disappointment to myself for my lack of action.

I glare at the bastard in front of me, at the one that tried to force his will upon me. Forcing myself to the limit, I raised a fist while letting out a loud grunt of exertion and punched his face as hard as I could possibly muster, feeling satisfaction upon hearing a crack on his part. I lose my balance and stumble forwards, but I didn't care. I felt my head spiraling, but I didn't fucking care.

All I cared for was to make this fucking bastard show some damned respect!

I fall limply to my knees again, panting heavily. Any trace of that spurt of adrenaline gone. I watched as the others rushed to help their leader before a loud scream echoed across the area. That voice… Wasn't that…?

Ah… I feel really tired now…

Maybe sleeping for a bit won't be so bad…

2-10

Ugh… I feel like crap…

My body's seriously killing me right now. And for some reason I feel something cold on my face. I let out a small groan, and shake my head to regain focus also causing whatever was cold on my face to fall off.

"Hikigaya-kun!" I slowly open my eyes to see a concerned Shiromeguri hovering over me. I blink at that. That worried look doesn't suit you, you know?

"Shiromeguri?" Out of the corner of my eye, I see an equally worried Miura standing to the side, "Miura?"

"Thank goodness you woke up!" I see Shiromeguri smile at me in relief, her eyes shimmering slightly. I feel uncomfortable at that, so I avert my gaze aside, only for it to land on Miura, who was actually sniffling and wiping her eyes.

"Sorry… For, uh, worrying you two…" I mutter while scratching my cheek. Being the source of their concerns and relief sure is embarrassing… Did I really mean that much to them?

"Hic… I'm just glad you're okay…" Miura hiccups.

"Y-yeah… Uh… What happened?" I remember that I got in a fight, but I'm not sure how it ended. Only that I was pissed for some reason. I just can't recall what happened exactly… did I lose some neurons or something?

"We waited for you by the gates, but you never showed up so we came looking for you," Shiromeguri explained. Miura nodded next to her.

"We were, like, really worried, you know?" Oi, don't make me feel even more guilty, woman.

I grunt while getting in seated position. Shiromeguri puts a hand on my shoulder, "Don't. You were really hurt when we found you." She tells me softly.

"I'm fine, my body doesn't hurt that much," I retort, sighing.

"Mou… stop trying to act tough," Miura murmurs, sitting on the bed, uncomfortably close to me, "You should take care of yourself, you know?"

I scratch my cheek in uncertainty, avoiding Miura's gaze, "So, you were by the gates and then…?"

Shiromeguri nods her head, also taking a seat on the other side of the bed, although she wasn't looking at me, "We decided to look for you, and Yumi-chan remembered that you left your bicycle by the parking station, so we went there." She turns to me, once again looking uncharacteristically serious for someone as cheerful as her. "We found the note they left for you."

"Yeah, so we knew that something bad happened to you, then we, like, heard some shouting in the distance, you know? They lead us to you."

It isn't that surprising that they found me honestly. The distance between the gym and the bicycle station wasn't too far. I guess I was lucky for that, if they hadn't I may have ended up in a worse condition.

"So, you two brought me here after they left?" After hearing the story, I begin to recall what had happened. Before losing consciousness I remember seeing the bastards run away. They both nod at that.

"They even left one of them behind. He was, like, out cold. We told Hiratsuka-sensei about him." I blink at Miura's words. So much for camaraderie in that group. They did realize that leaving one guy behind leaves them open to getting ratted out, didn't they?

"She said that she was going to report this to the principal, and pass by later to check on you." Shiromeguri adds, I nod at that.

"Okay," I look around, noticing the sunlight was near disappearing from the only visible window. "What time is it?"

"Almost six," Replies Shiromeguri.

I blink, it was late. I force my body to sit up again, and while Miura first attempted to stop me, my noncompliant glare made her stand up, taking a few steps away from the bed. Shiromeguri frowns, but says nothing and does the same.

"I need to get home," I say, my voice conveying my frankness. "Komachi will get worried if I take too long. My face sort of hurts, how bad is it?"

Miura seems disapproving of my actions, so I turned to Shiromeguri, the girl sporting a stern expression as well. She closes her eyes, folding her arms.

"Your face was sort of swollen when we found you, but I can't really see much of it now. The ice pack must've helped," My upperclassman says, her expression becoming concerned. I look behind me to see a half melted ice pack soaking the bed. Huh, so that's why my face was cold, "Hikigaya-kun, at least let me treat the rest of the bruises." Walking around the bed, Shiromeguri then sits at my side, and I have to note that Miura didn't look particularly happy. I feel a bit uncomfortable at her proximity.

Now that I realize it, my blazer is hanging on a chair in front of the bed, so I'm currently in my school shirt. They must have removed it after bringing me here. Now that I notice, there's a bottle of ointment opened resting over the furniture at the left side of the bed. Shiromeguri leans across the bed to grab it, and as she did, I catch a glimpse of her slender legs. I immediately avert my eyes. Good grief, that's a very dangerous thing to do there Megurin…

I suddenly feel a glare directed at me and I can already imagine who's sending it to me. Seriously Miura, if you even noticed my short peek at Shiromeguri, then that means that you're continuously observing me, which is really scary. I'd appreciate if you could stop looking at me all the time, woman.

Without further warning, I find myself flinching at the touch of Shiromeguri's soft fingers on my cheek. I begin to shy away from it before realizing she was applying the ointment. She pouts at me, and I sigh in resignation. Looks like she isn't going to let me get away from this… Geh… This is embarrassing.

I nod at her and she smiles, finally letting her finger tenderly apply the ointment on my face, and after she did… "Can you take off your shirt?" What? Are you serious? That's way too daring, and it would be awkward. Taking in consideration Miura's reddened face of disbelief, she must be thinking the same thing.

However…

"Y-you should t-totally listen t-to her, Hachiman…" Miura stammers as she tries to look uninterested, completely failing due to her obvious blush. Honestly, what's with these two and their boldness? Don't they have any shame?

"H-hah?" I begin to mutter before noticing the color on Shiromeguri's cheeks. Is she blushing too now? You're not making this any easier for me, woman. "W-why the hell should I do that?"

"N-no! I… I want to t-treat any bruises there too! T-that's all!" Shiromeguri is completely red now, probably embarrassed to death. Oh, so it was for that… I should've known.

"Oh… S-sure…" I mutter. I slowly begin to unbutton my shirt. Even if it's for that reason, taking my shirt off in front of two girls is still insanely embarrassing. Whatever, just relax Hachiman.

I breathe deeply, taking a few seconds to gather my courage. I guess I have to comply.

When I finish taking the shirt off, I hear two gasps from the girls. Was it that bad? I glance behind to see an oddly forlorn Shiromeguri, and looking back at Miura, I see a horrified expression on her face.

"H-Hachiman…" She looks like she might burst to tears at any moment. Hey come on, no need to cry. I give her a small thumbs up, to alleviate her worry, if only slightly.

Finally I look down at my body. Yikes… It was pretty bad, I hadn't even realized the damage I took there too. Even my arms were bruised, probably from their grips on me. I look back down and see darker bruises on my left ribs. I tentatively poke at them with a finger… Ah, shit… They're really tender right now, so I should just leave it alone. But it's actually a surprise that I didn't get a single rib broken despite their savage beating. Maybe this body a lot tougher than I thought?

I hear a small sigh from Shiromeguri, she's taking this oddly well. Could it be that she's seen this before? She moves away from my back and places herself in front of me.

"Hikigaya-kun, could you come a little closer?" She no longer looked embarrassed, only saddened at my state.

"Yeah…" Was I right then? She wouldn't be making such an expression if this was new to her. She didn't even flinch as her fingers spread ointment on the bruises close to my chest scar. So she knows about it then? Why would she?

"Tch… That… Hurts, you know…?" I comment, enduring the piercing pain her touch caused on one of the bruises.

"I'm sorry, but you know I need to treat them," She smiles at me slightly, guilt in her eyes. "Just bear with it a little longer. Okay?"

It was only a suspicion before, but now… Has Shiromeguri done this sort of thing for me before? I have this feeling that she actually has once or many times actually. And that fact that she didn't react to my scars… Does that mean that this body actually belonged to the previous Hachiman?

It makes sense actually. The previous Hachiman must have gotten the scars in a previous fight, or many, in the past, which I can assume Shiromeguri knows of. However, Miura…

She suddenly walks to the bed and leans over Shiromeguri, observing carefully my bruised body. I had to blush at her sheer proximity, averting my eyes away from her, "O-oi, what are you doing?"

"You have scars… Did you… like, get them from the other fights everyone says you got into?" Miura turns to Shiromeguri, who yelps in surprise at her glare. "Meguri, you knew about this?"

To my discomfort, Shiromeguri grips my pants by my knees, probably involuntarily… it doesn't make it any less embarrassing for me though. After a few seconds, my senpai nods her head before resuming to apply the ointment.

Miura hardens her gaze, and growls, "Why did you hide these things from me?"

Shiromeguri dropped her gaze and responded, "I… I don't have the right to meddle in the affairs of Hikigaya-kun, much less commenting on them." She raised her head, her eyes locking onto mine. The sudden fervor in her gaze was unexpected, I couldn't help feeling a bit intimidated. "I understand if you get mad, Yumi-chan, but, this was a matter that only Hikigaya-kun could solve and decide to reveal. I… just… I only started helping him when I found him here once. He wouldn't tell me anything back then, and I just stopped asking… Despite that, I guess I always knew…"

"Meguri…" I hear Miura utter. Shiromeguri gives her a bitter smile.

"I've done this sort of thing for Hikigaya-kun since his first-year term, before you met him Yumi-chan," She explains to Miura.

So this sort of thing has been going on for at least a year? My previous self would fight enough to warrant Shiromeguri regularly treat him? Why though? I understand the first time she stumbled onto my alternate self's injured state, by why after? Did she offer to do it in the future? She probably did, even this Shiromeguri is a sincerely nice person, there's no way she wouldn't have offered.

"…But," I hear my upperclassman snivel. She turns back at me with her bottom lip trembling slightly, and her eyes shining with tears, "I really hate seeing Hikigaya-kun get hurt like this…"

I watch her, dumbfounded as she knelt over the ground. I just couldn't say anything at the moment. I was at loss for words, I was surprised and confused… Shiromeguri Meguri, the girl I always thought to see happy, cheerful and with that bubbly personality of hers. She looked terribly fragile, and uncomfortably… scared.

"Shiromeguri…"

She wipes her tears, "Today is so strange, hehe…" She giggles half-heartedly, yet her tears don't stop. Don't do this to yourself Shiromeguri, don't feel the need to force your kindness on me. This is more than I can handle, to see you crying like this. "Despite that I always tried to stop you from fighting and getting hurt, you never listen to me… Even though I always kept an eye on you, you were always out of my reach, Hikigaya-kun… But… I feel like it's different from back then."

"Meguri…?" Miura mutters in disbelief.

I couldn't look at Shiromeguri, not even after she rested her hands on mine. I felt an uncomfortable feeling in my stomach again, just like with Miura in the morning.

"You never spoke a word to me then, and you never looked at me directly… you simply ignored me no matter what I did… I wanted to show you my appreciation after you protected me when those guys tried to hurt me that time, yet…" Her tears dripped over our hands, her voice broke, "Hiki… Hachiman-kun… please, look at me…"

I raised my head, my eyes widening. Her face was red, the tears coming down in an unbroken stream. Despite that she smiled, I could feel her hopelessness as if it were my own. This wasn't like the time I got hit by Yukinoshita's car after trying to save Yuigahama's dog. With Yuigahama I first thought that she felt guilty about what had happened and tried to be nice to me for that very reason.

No, this world's Hachiman saved Shiromeguri from getting hurt by some people, and despite that he did, he never accepted her gratitude. Despite that she had nursed him back to health several times, this world's Hachiman simply ignored her and continued doing what he felt, disregarding her feelings.

I now understand why was she surprised when I talked to her today, as that was probably the first time someone with the name Hikigaya Hachiman has ever spoken to her.

I first thought that Shiromeguri was among the closest person to me in school, but it turns out that feeling wasn't mutual, but one-sided. Maybe most people deserved that treatment, but not Shiromeguri, as I really felt that she was honestly kind to me. This one and the one from my world are the same in that regard from what I've seen.

"Don't get hurt again…" Her breaking voice echoed in the empty room, and I felt it like a sting in my heart. "Please…"

I looked down, at her hands pressing mine, the tears continuously falling on them. Then, another pair of hands rested on top of ours. I look up, it was Miura, who also knelt by her side and didn't look any better than Shiromeguri. Damn it… Stop crying you two, please…

"I'm still a little mad that I never knew of any of this, but Meguri's right," Miura bites her lip uneasily, gripping our hands even tighter. "Do you know much it hurts to see you like this? I won't forgive you if you ever do something like this again!"

"Promise that you won't get hurt again, Hachiman-kun!" Shiromeguri pleads with desperation. "And if you do, let us be there for you…"

---

Go to profile, SEE: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 02Section: Picture 05

---

I stare at them in silence. It wasn't like I picked the fight, it isn't like I wanted things to go that way… This is a life that wasn't my own until yesterday, yet I'm expected to face all the problems that came with it. It isn't my fault, and even if it was, how could I stop any of this from happening?

I sigh wearily before responding.

"I… can't promise that sort of thing," I mutter, pulling my hand away as they blink is shock. "If I did I would be lying to you two. Getting into these sorts of things doesn't just depend on me."

"Then lie, you idiot! I don't care, but at least let me think you'll take care of yourself!" Miura shouts in impotence.

Is this what it feels to have others truly caring for me? I can't help remembering Yukinoshita and Yuigahama during that eventful day in the club when I revealed to them that I wanted something genuine.

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 02Section: Song 07

---

So, could this also lead to something… genuine? I want to convince myself that it isn't as I'm not the Hachiman they knew, and despite that I was witnessing it at face value, I couldn't come to accept it. Maybe I'd have to fall back on reading between the lines, suspecting an ulterior motive behind their actions. With this insane game and circumstances, it would simply make sense.

…But their feelings… they… they seek to understand even without getting a mutual response. They seek no friendship, but something far more sinister and deep, and it frightens me to the very core. Such a despicable, self-centered and boastful desire as it is to try to truly understand those around you to feel at ease.

I understand that too well.

It's awful and sickening feeling, yet… despite it, those feelings only sought to carry that burden together, that disgusting sense of self-gratification that I only should have dreamt of having and hoped to share… Something that should have been out of my reach, something I never should have deserved and yet… and yet…

"Hachiman-kun…" Shiromeguri's voice between their sobs echo once more, "Let us be there for you!"

Like me, they wanted something meaningful.

…

Something genuine…

…

I feel a small smile grow on my face, closing my eyes and resting my hands on their heads. I know what I have to do. I won't be what they want, but I will be what they need. That's all I can give them.

They both look at me in expectation, both of their faces have reddened. Now that I realize it, I did something a charming shoujo male love interest would do to the main heroine, good grief this is going to become embarrassing soon, so I hurry up and speak.

"I won't lie, so I won't make that promise… still, that doesn't mean I won't try," I gaze at Shiromeguri, and then at Miura with a reassuring smirk. "So I'll ask again. Will you trust me?"

This is the moment. They can either accept me or walk away. They have the call, and I won't force them, I won't get mad if they do. This is how it's supposed to be.

A whole minute passed then in silence, their crying finally ending.

"Mou… Baka-Hachiman!" Miura starts, "Why do you have to ask such a dumb question? You, like, totally know what I… think… of you…" Eh? I try suppress a blush as she stares at me.

Shiromeguri smiles brightly and nods her head, "Yes! I suppose we'll be in your care from now on, Hachiman-kun." This time my face does become red as she giggles. Don't say it like that, I might get the wrong idea. Give me a break…

"Meguri… I'm the only one that should use his name…" Miura mutters in annoyance… So you want to feel special, huh? Seriously, I won't ever get used to this.

Miura starts pulling Shiromeguri's cheeks as she reprimands her as an elder sister. Seriously Miura, she's the upperclassman, you know?

As their antiques continue, I let out a chuckle. And they stop.

"You should smile more often, you know…?" Miura comments with an amused smile.

Nodding in agreement, Shiromeguri adds, "It suits you. I would have loved to take a picture."

I roll my eyes, "Stop saying weird stuff and get up already. It's embarrassing to see you two knelt by me feet," With a deadpan following, I add, "…idiots."

With faces as red as a tomatoes, the duo frantically stand on their feet, waving their arms so comically and that I had to force myself to suppress a chuckle.

The door is opened, Hiratsuka-sensei entering. She stops, blinking as she observes at both Miura and Shiromeguri. She frowns, "What happened to you two? Were you crying?" …and then she glares at me, because I'm the only obvious suspect that could have caused that. Goodness me, my rotten eyes don't define my character, you know?

"Hey, what did you do…?" She asks with a sharp tone and I quickly raise my hands, trying to relieve myself of any guilt.

"Why are you assuming I did something?" I give an annoyed look to her. I then motion my head in their direction, "Why not ask them?"

Shiromeguri quickly approaches her and start explaining that they were merely worried about me that they started crying. That of course was a lame excuse, and one that was very embarrassing too. Miura doesn't seem to be able to follow as out of panic, starts telling her her own version. In few seconds, it becomes a really interesting situation to observe as they continue to argue and create silly excuses.

To think some rumors caused me so much problems today. This is the first day though, and the rumors will not get better. I'll have to think how I'm gonna deal with them. For now, I'll put that aside to observe the bashful duo. These two really can be a pain to deal with sometimes.

I chuckle, and I'm relieved that they didn't notice this time, however, the dreadful reality comes back to my mind, practically slapping me in the face. The game, that damned game I'm forced to win.

They both meet the conditions to be deemed suspects inside the game much to my despair.

My smile fades completely. They seem to trust me, so the question is…

…Can I trust them?

---

Chapter 02 End

---

GTO, the Host 02

A man with short blonde hair, wearing a blue shirt under a white suit, walked across an ambiguous classroom, with a book in hand. He observed the readers after yawning, and finally spoke.

"Hello, visitors!" He began, closing the book on his hand, "Good to see you again. I am Onizuka Eikichi, 22-years-old, still single," He walks to the board and turns around, "So, as usual, we'll continue introducing more characters."

At his words, the door is opened, a beautiful girl black purplish-hair walk into the classroom. Scarlet red eyes scan the classroom in a bothered manner.

"Can we get this over with quickly?" The girl says with an uninterested expression, "I'm Kasumigaoka Utaha, best heroine of the light novel and anime Saenai Heroine no Sodatekata, also known as Saekano. As I'm the best Heroine any game could hope for, I have my own manga called Saenai Heroine no Sodatekata: Koisuru Metronome. For all the fans of my works, be sure to follow it."

"Oh, you're that famous light novel author, right?" Onizuka asked and Kasumigaoka merely acknowledged him.

"Indeed. Is this enough? I'm pretty busy."

Onizuka narrowed his gaze, "I guess, kiddo. We got one conceited brat here…"

Kasumigaoka frowned at that, "Excuse me?"

"Next!" Onizuka ignored her and hurriedly waves his hand.

And… nobody entered. A minute pass and nothing happened. Onizuka blinks and walk outside the class, checking the hallway. There was nobody outside.

"Hold on a minute, we only have one character for today's section? What a downer."

"Hmm, well, that speeds it up, I assume? But… before that…" Kasumigaoka rubbed her eyes and sat on the a desk, resting her body over it, and felt asleep.

Onizuka stares blankly at her, before shrugging his shoulders, "I guess this will be…"

"Wait!" A new voice echoes from outside, a dark red spiky-haired boy rushing inside, leaning over and resting his hands over his knees as he caught his breath.

Onizuka observed him and sighed, "I need a cigarette…"

The boy finally stood straight, golden eyes observing the readers with inner fire. He smirks, and folds his arms, "Hello! I'm Yukihira Souma, main protagonist of the manga and anime, Shokugeki no Souma. Nice to meet you all!"

Onizuka, already smoking a lit cigar, asked, "So, you're supposed to be a cook?"

Yukihira smiled confidently, "Yep, soon enough, the best in the world! Say mister, are you good at cooking?"

Onizuka scratched the back of his head, "I guess I am."

Yukihira pull from his arm a white headband, adjusting it around his head, "Then let's have a Shokugeki! I'm always trying to improve, so this duel should be informative at least!"

Onizuka smirks, "You asked for it kid, my cooking is so good that makes women fall for me instantly!"

"That's strange, I heard you were single," Kasumigaoka comments, looking at them lazily as she rested her elbows over the desk.

"Shut it!" Onizuka growls, "Who asked you for your opinion? Weren't you asleep?"

"Yukihira-kun's shout woke me up, so I guess I'm not…" She said boredly, and the redhead turns at her, "Yukihira-kun, there's no kitchen in this school. How are you going to have a duel without one?"

The surprised expression he sported, followed by a dumb one, clearly displayed he just realized it. He scratches his head, "Really? This school sucks."

Onizuka sighs, "Whatever. Well, this is it for today. See you in the next installment: GTO, the Host! This is Onizuka Eikichi, 22-years-old, single. Be sure to remember that, girls over eighteen."

"You seriously are desperate… so much for someone who apparently makes women fall in love with his food," Kasumigaoka's sarcastic comment causes Onizuka to fume.

"Brats these days… Anyway, see you soon readers!"

---

We've finally reached the bottom. Well, a lot have happened in the span of half a day, and I can assure you, the last half will be just as eventful. In any case, I hope you found this chapter to your liking.

*Dark Spirit: bEtAreAdEr has invaded*

I just thought you should know that this chapter was in huge jeopardy courtesy of our beloved author… Mr. Itherael here nearly deleted everything I had written in the beginning in a drunken stupor, almost giving me a heart attack in the process… That was a really stressful experience… Pity me dammit! If my hair greys, it's all his fau-

*Dark Spirit: bEtAreAdEr has once again been banished*

...So yeah, Hachiman has a better body in terms of physique, although, that doesn't mean he knows how to use it yet. (Took creative liberties with muscle memory, those weren't his own skills since he doesn't know how to fight. -NirvFrk97). As for the accelerated regeneration, as said before, it's nothing we could consider supernatural, so yeah, it's not that much of an ability. He just heals a bit faster. A bit of a compromise my Beta and I discussed when he brought up it's a possible need in the future (And boy was that a long discussion…-NirvFrk97).

Anyhow, I hope you enjoyed this chapter. And tell me your thoughts, too.

Until we meet again, then. (*Two-fingered salute* -NirvFrk97)

- Frank