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.

9. Genuine I

(Inside the Cathedral of Causality)

Meh, nothing really interesting happened with that guy, Hachiman, I mean, he just went out with some girl… and that's it!? Booooooooooriiiiiiinnnnnnng!

Not quite Muru Muru. In a single day, Hachiman Hikigaya made plenty of progress with Mikoto Suou, one of the potential targets for the game.

That means your game is boring, Deus Ex!

I seek no entertainment from the game, nor should you, Muru Muru. All that matters is how they push themselves through the countless trials this world has to offer.

Well, at least Kiyotaka is having fun! His first meeting with that crazy woman, Medaka Kurokami… hehehe! It was so funny how he got his ass kicked! Hahaha!

But he prevailed in the end, as I had expected of him, and in exchange made a powerful ally. I am certain he will uncover his past with her now that he met her.

I'm finally here! Hohoho!

Really Deus! I can't believe you're letting this annoying thing observe the game!

Who are you calling annoying!? Eh? Wait, I'm not a thing! I'm a godd-

Whatever! See Deus Ex? She's already getting on my nerves!

You're the one being mean! You should be thankful that I'd grace you my presence, you repulsive midget!

You wanna fight, bit-

Enough! I will not stand any more infighting inside the Cathedral. I believe it is time for Aqua to meet her chosen candidate.

She's totally gonna lose!

I'm not! I'll be the last one laughing!

It matters not. I trust you will explain him your presence, Aqua.

Of course!

In any case, I will depart to meet with Great Red while you do so.

Then I guess I'll check the fantasy world to see what's up. Definitely more interesting than watching this lame game!

Then I am bringing him now. Let us not prolong his arrival.

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Guest (1): (NirvFrk97): We surprise ourselves sometimes.

Alciel: (NirvFrk97): Suou is a great waifu. Unfortunately we lost our helper, such a shame.

Blue Sanctum: (NirvFrk97): We're glad you liked it. On behalf of illleashya and myself, we thank you.

the god wolf: (NirvFrk97): *laughs nervously before glaring* Please don't give Itherael any ideas. I don't want to read Bleach again.

Lenovouser254: (NirvFrk97): May the sun shine across your day with this new chapter.

BentShuriken: (NirvFrk97): You and me both wish 8man could have a 'peaceful' slice of life time, but we also both know Itherael won't give him that sort of peace. The Gasai chapter was but a small taste of future stuff. Enjoy the eye of the storm, as it were, while you can.

Echonic: (NirvFrk97): I'm sorry you feel that way. illleashya and I both knew that Suou was probably not well known among the readers, so we tried our best to make her seem engageable with the audience, so it's a shame that you didn't connect with her.

Abyss Trinity: (NirvFrk97): Thanks for the support!

Mugiwara no Luffy: (NirvFrk97): I was sort of surprised myself, I didn't expect 80% of the chapter to follow Suou and 8man. I guess that's the power of weekend date-not-dates. But I'm glad to hear that we were able to keep your attention even though you didn't know who she was. I think that's what Itherael, illeashya and I can pride ourselves in; when the readers are able to meet these unknown characters along with Hachiman. Knowing them is just a bonus, but not a necessity, since you'll learn through 8man.

Though I admit the scene with Mikan, Shidare and Touka was a sort of slap to the face with how sudden they arrived, but I see it as akin to realism. 8man, whether he wants them or not, has connections to a number of people in this world. It isn't up to him when they'll appear in his life, plus, it helps keep him on his toes.

We're happy to hear that you enjoyed it, and we're willing to hear any opinion you may have.

GG Man: (NirvFrk97): I have a new soft spot for Suou myself after that chapter. The swing moment was my brain child so I'm really glad you liked it! :D

Honestly, I took the reigns of illeashya and I's co-writing and went off in my own tangent when writing it. It amazed her and became my pride.

Dimiel: (NirvFrk97): Oof… Doesn't that imply that you found the previous chapters' quality lacking? OTL I'm sorry… I'm sorry…

I was raised with DBZ as a child. I have mixed feelings about Super in general (the powerscaling pisses me off to no end), but I don't outright hate it. I haven't watched Broly, but I'm glad it integrated Gine as Goku's mother. Plus, Goku giving Broly the "Kakarot Pass" is a pretty cool thing to think about.

Killusion: (NirvFrk97): Yeah, I liked how we went into their relationship this chapter. You'll see this as a common occurrence for this intro arc, 8man meets characters in one chapter but later gets to know them more in a later one. Sometimes, like in this new one, he meets and gets to know them in the same chapter. It's how it'll work with the vast amount of characters LiMS contains. Just a tip though, with this still being the intro arc, the characters who have their names in the chapter titles indicate their importance to the overall story.

But don't worry, at the end of each arc we'll have a sort of note-taking 'epilogue' that has 8man log in everything that occurred and brief summaries about the new people he meets/his changed relationships. It'll "update" for each bonus chapter, though the details will probably lessen slightly to rough gists as arcs go on. Priority goes to 'new' characters in each arc, or learned things of previous ones.

Not sure about adding a Soul Calibur character.

Lucius: (Itherael): There you go.

CacciaFulmini: (NirvFrk97): Nice to see you again, couldn't help but notice you're writing a second story. I hope things have gone well in those regards.

I, too, understand the pain of being outnumbered by women.

Well, shame that you didn't enjoy it as much, but there's plenty of Miura in here.

nevermindthefallibility: (NirvFrk97): It probably is, and her appearance is up to Itherael.

Mogami Kumagawa: (Itherael): Well, I can say that Medaka and all her plot is more important to the side of Kiyotaka, so when they show up, you'll see what happens.

Dyrus: (NirvFrk97): Glad you liked it. Unfortunately life reared its ugly head and cost us our newest writer.

JerichoCross: (NirvFrk97): Well, he wasn't entirely stepping away anyway. As I've mentioned before, at the end of the day he's the creator of this story, my presence is inconsequential compared to his. But he'll have to stay regularly now with illeashya being unavailable to help out.

I'm glad you like our interpretation of Suou, illeashya and I spent a good amount of rereading in order to grasp her character well for the chapter. Unlike Deviluke, whom I winged when it came to her own chapter (I've never read To-Love Ru). Somehow people still loved my interpretation of her.

A Certain Unfortunate Guy: (NirvFrk97): Maybe your ANRoM alter-ego will have better luck?

DX Blade: (NirvFrk97): That's a respectable trio of waifus you have there, friend.

Arcane Valor: (NirvFrk97): I thank you for saying so. I take immense pride in the park scene (I wrote most of it), the swing part was my favorite moment.

PhatomRPG: (Itherael): Yeah, Mikoto was great and the time for a confrontation with Hanai will come, that's for certain.

(Risette): Your questions were noted and will be delivered when my show begins!

Knight of Athos: (NirvFrk97): It makes me glad that you appreciate the level of care we put into character interactions let alone the characterizing themselves. I'm a lot like 8-man in real life (not completely), but there are times when I have to think for minutes at a time to decide his course of action. Or I scold Itherael about OOC decisions he tries to have 8man make. I was benevolent enough to let him give a small OOC moment for the sake of "le funni m3m3s."

prietaur: (NirvFrk97): Yeah, I missed him too. Usui is a really fun character to write, goofy or serious.

PP HP: (Itherael): Well, guess who's back.

Soul Titan: (Itherael): This is a reminder that many things are happening in other places while Hachiman's story progresses.

adv: (Itherael): Can't wait either, my friend.

tsun: (Itherael): Many things will continue to occur, since Hachiman has to discover everything going on with him in this world.

EiNyx: (NirvFrk97): Not to worry, 8man's impressions of Touka are right now akin to "terrifying woman to avoid at all costs." Obviously, he'll have to deal with her again, but he doesn't completely dislike her like he does Takao. Now, that's someone he won't like for a loooooong while.

Inlander: (NirvFrk97): Instructions unclear. Ladle has been upgraded into the Ban Hammer of Life.

Luna Warsong: (NirvFrk97): Yeah, Suou's great. Her reaction is connected to her canonical crush on her senpai, so you can see that in School Rumble (plus him having an unnamed girlfriend -we took liberties). It's why she was so miserable when 8man first met her, and after the phone call earlier that chapter.

Keep an eye on ANRoM; although at the moment, LiMS is a few months ahead of 'when' ANRoM is. LiMS takes place in early October, ANRoM is still in Mid-July. Just about three months. Luckily for ANRoM, multiple days take place in some chapters compared to LiMS's slower pace.

Lady Dalila: (NirvFrk97): I'm so glad you enjoyed that moment, I take pride in it being the most romantic scene I've ever written. :D

(Risette): Interesting question! I'll definitely use it!

Metal Vile: (NirvFrk97): That is sorta nitpicky, but we still appreciate it. I think we'll edit that into him offering to go pay for their meal instead of requesting for a check.

I understand what you're saying, 8man is meeting more women who could all potentially be the target he's looking for. Not to mention 8man hasn't really made much effort to find it yet (and to be fair he hasn't had the opportunity), plus he's not entirely sure how to even do that in the first place. But don't worry, this is the intro arc, he's still meeting the more important central characters.

shiroryuu012: (NirvFrk97): Huh, Darki-gaya, that's a funny nickname.

I couldn't stop grinning while writing it and rereading it.

nobodyreallyimportant: (NirvFrk97): Yikes, that's a lot of binge-reading you did, my friend. All my respect and we appreciate that you enjoyed the story that much.

Guest (2): (Itherael): Well, my co-writer makes sure I don't go off the tangent with Hachiman's characterization, so rest assured Hachiman will be 'him'.

I have to say, Othinus is a main plot. How different it is from canon? Well, we'll have to wait for her to appear. Look forward to it.

Yu3kino: (Itherael): I was recommended this but now I do think it's a good idea now. The GTO segments were made for the readers to get info of the new characters, but actually having a picture showing every character may be helpful to you.

I'll make one and put the link in the story's profile when the next chapter comes.

the god wolf: (Itherael): Haha, I believe no.

Phi: (NirvFrk97): Haha, a novel idea, but he doesn't have anything to worry about with Gasai for the time being. He's got her tamed for now.

Haha, Itherael is planning that to happen soon enough.

Zero Gawain: (NirvFrk97): Here's the newest chapter, sorry for the long wait.

exile0021: (NirvFrk97): Don't worry we won't abandon this story, we just find ourselves busy a lot. Plus, Itherael has three other stories to worry about, plus plus, two being planned on as well.

thetyrant67: (NirvFrk97): Glad to see that you retract your previous distaste you initially held. Hopefully the other chapters were to your liking as well.

StoryReyter: (NirvFrk97): He'll have a lot of burdens to weigh him down, who knows how much effect they'll have on him.

---

(NirvFrk97): Well, I've already mentioned it a few times up above, but in case you didn't hear: Unfortunately we lost our newest member illeashya to the woes of life. Sadly, a lot of events have come up with her and caused her to have to pull out in helping us out. Of course, the door is still open for her to return when her time is freed, but I don't think we should expect anything for a good while.

(Itherael): With that out of the way, and as is usual, open a tab to the profile's story via mine, so you can enjoy the song recommendations and pictures for this chapter.

Enjoy.

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Logic is My Sword

Chapter 08 – Without a Doubt, Onizuka Eikichi Stays True to Himself

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8-0

Every so often, I find my thoughts wandering towards the concept of 'Being true to yourself.'

At the surface level, it sounds synonymous with what I was searching for, my genuine thing. But was it really?

To stay true to yourself implies that you honor your self-imposed principles at all times. In other words, you strive to become someone who does not lie to themselves, accepting both your pros and cons. But does that translate to you becoming genuine?

…I still ponder about the possibility, or rather, the legitimacy of actually finding something genuine. Let alone thinking myself as being so. I still recall the evening when Belldandy regarded me as someone who was genuine. But that could never be the case, for I was the biggest liar of all.

Although… The goddess senses emotions, she would be able to see more than anyone else could.

Hmm…

Either way, if people accepting their emotions are determined as 'true to themselves,' then it would also mean they are honest and sincere, with no underlying intent or ulterior motives because they wouldn't lie to themselves for any person. Ergo, they might just be genuine themselves, right?

It just winds right back to being genuine, doesn't it? Was it really as simple as that?

No… I suppose that's what makes it difficult in the first place. I labeled the genuine thing I wanted as something that I would not be able to question, and would in fact take at face value without holding any doubts. And that's where the issue laid, my nature instinctively prevented me from doing that kind of thing.

Because I know I'm not the type of person who easily trusts. I prefer to trust intent over the person themselves, intent is much more predictable.

Logically speaking, this makes my search seem like a waste because I would immediately question that genuine article if I were to come across it, right? My natural disposition is my biggest hurdle, and I would go as far to say that it's my greatest enemy.

"If feelings could be processed like that, they'd have been digitized long ago."

Ah. I guess even in a different world, Hiratsuka-sensei's words from back then are still able to help me out, huh?

Feelings aren't in the realm of rationality and were never meant to be. To try and regard them as such is a fool's gambit. All I'd be doing is going through this pointless cycle in an attempt to rationalize them.

And that's the thing, isn't it? In order to find something genuine, I have to suspend my usual logic or else I run the risk of ruining the novel experience I desperately wanted because of my doubts and questions. I have to rely on human emotions in order to find it, like a leap of faith, to put it simply. And I'm… not sure if that's something I'm capable of doing at the moment…

Doubly so when it comes from my own person.

Hah, I'm nothing but a coward. I would rather find something else being genuine than attempt to find it within myself. Selfishly pushing the responsibilities onto wherever the source of the genuine article may lay instead of me. Because of how scummy I am, I will search outside instead.

Maybe someday in the distant future I'll be able to find it. Perhaps by then I'll have figured it out. But until that time, I can only wonder about the possibilities.

Although… There is an uncomfortable thought in the back of my mind.

…What if the genuine thing I find wound up leading to a cruel reality?

What if it led to nothing but sadness?

If that were the case…

Would it really be something worth searching for?

8-1

I wake up, coming to in a rapidly-becoming-familiar location. Wait, that's not technically right, is it? I'm not actually waking up or anything. I guess it's more like my subconscious self is? No that doesn't seem right either…

Ugh, I'm aware of my surroundings but I'm not dreaming, while actually still asleep; that's what's going on. I don't want to experience a headache before I'm even awake.

Observing the Cathedral of Causality, as Deus Ex liked to call it, I notice the lack of the time god's presence. In fact, it looked like I was the only one here this time. That's odd. This wouldn't be the first time Deus Ex wasn't present when I was summoned, but at least before, Ayanokouji was here as well. I don't see that Muru Muru brat either. I'll count myself lucky for her not being around, she's a pain to deal with.

So what do I do then? There's got to be a reason why I'm here even if Deus Ex didn't want to tell me something. Maybe he's busy and left me something to do?

Goodness me, he's a 'God of Time' and yet he couldn't at least have the courtesy to not waste my own? You could have left me a note with instructions or something, you know? I'm not particularly interested in roaming around this ethereal realm. What if I stumble into another reality or something?

Hah… I guess I can only look around and steer clear of the shadowy parts everyone seems to walk out of and especially the doors.

"?" I squint as I think I see something near one of the distant pillars. Two things actually. Are they… chairs?

I sigh to myself, not really wanting to go towards the out of place furniture. Argh… Why can't I just wake up and be back on my bed? I sigh again as I begrudgingly walk towards the random seats, resigning myself to whatever this led to.

As I stood near them, I notice one was white, with a stand to it's right where a thick book rested upon. The other, which was directly facing this one, was brown-colored. The chairs seemed to be arranged in a way that would work for an interview of sorts.

And before I can pick up the book to see what it contained, I notice many sources of blue light levitating across the large space. I felt intrigued of course as these were not present before, and upon approaching one, I came to realize it was a magical looking cube, emitting light from its middle.

I raise a hand to touch it, yet my instincts blared in my head making me stop. Something was different, and I was not just referring to these cubes, or the chairs, or the fact that the place seemed a lot darker now. I don't have a good feeling about this, and that's something worthy of consideration since the sole fact of being here is reason enough to feel worried in the first place.

My gaze narrows as soon as I hear the distinct sound of footsteps coming from the darkness, and I suspect it might be a certain impassive boy, that is of course, until a voice echoes, one I haven't heard before.

"Sooooo, you finally arrived…"

A woman's voice? That rules out Ayanakouji and Deus Ex. Didn't sound like the Muru girl either, so then who…?

A woman suddenly appeared before me, and for a brief second I thought I was gazing upon Belldandy until I notice the obvious differences. In hindsight I don't understand how could I have mistaken her for the goddess, whom I currently see daily. Maybe it's that divine aura around her that got me confused… They're similar in that regard.

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Go to profile, SEE: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 08 Section: Picture 01

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The woman stands just before me with a wide smile, which allows me to observe her in detail. I now understand why I mistook her for Belldandy as this woman was also supernaturally beautiful.

This woman had a slim figure, her chest was… noticeable… and her legs were long, but her prominent feature was by all means her blue waist-long hair, partially tied into a loop with a water molecule-shaped clip. Her outfit matched her perfectly if I'm to be honest, as it consisted of a dark blue vest, detached white sleeves, thigh-high boots of the same color of the vest, long white stockings underneath them and… that disturbingly short miniskirt with that transparent underskirt that did nothing to cover her beautiful legs.

Dear me… I swear that at any sudden movement, I'll catch a glimpse of something I shouldn't! Can my poor heart not have rest even in these dream-not-dreams!?

As this unknown woman suddenly leans towards me, I can't help but becoming restless, uncomfortable at such proximity.

"…Who are you?" I slowly ask this new female, leaning away from her inquisitive gaze.

Her smile widens, a brow being raised in apparent amusement, as she tilts her head to the side, "So direct… as expected, humans tend to be disrespectful when they ignore with whom they are talking with. I can't really blame you Mister Hachiman Hikigaya… oh… in your language it would be like… Hikigaya Hachiman-san, am I correct?"

I blinked in surprise as out of nowhere, a translucent, thin shawl appeared around her. Wait… isn't that a Hagoromo? Can't remember in which class it came up in, but I remember someone saying that this type of clothing was often associated to Buddhist deities and celestial maidens… actually… Zaimokuza may have told me about that during one of his many tirades…

So maybe this woman is a goddess such as Belldandy? I mean, she has the look: with her clothing and that holy aura. So yeah… She must be one, maybe. Although, why would another goddess be in the dominion of Deus Ex Machina?

"Yeah…" I respond reluctantly, showcasing an expression of confusion at her own presence. The question on my face should be obvious.

Smiling to herself, she rests a hand over her chest, "Ah, yes. Then let me introduce myself." With eyes closed, she continues, "I'm Aqua." I cocked an eyebrow as she suddenly opened them, her confident demeanour was by now easily noticeable, and somewhat irritating. "I'm a goddess who guides humans whom have perished early to the afterlife, but that isn't a matter you should concern yourself with since you have… yet to die."

Well, at least that's a reassurance I'm glad for. Last thing I needed was to hear that I died a pathetic death in my original world without realizing it.

I look over this, 'Aqua' woman once again. At the very least, her hair color best suited her namesake, maybe that's the reason for her name? People are usually stupid enough to name their children for such shallow reasons.

Wait, that's what my parents did. So doesn't that mean I'm basically insulting myself!?

In any case, it was curious that she also proclaimed herself as a goddess, same as Belldandy. Compared to the one I'm familiar with, this newly introduced divine being did act like the goddesses you could expect in light novels and manga. Were they similar to each other, or was this new one more like Deus Ex and didn't directly involve herself in the physical world? Whichever she is, she has to be someone of high status to be able to roam in Deus Ex's realm. I guess it'd be appropriate to treat her as much.

Then she decided to open her mouth…

"Aren't you a little silent? Maybe witnessing the beauty of a goddess such as myself was too much for your little mind to withstand?" She giggles to herself in a haughty manner, "But let's not distract ourselves, shall we? You're surely wondering why you're here, mm?"

I simply nod in response, not wanting to deal with her ridiculous first point. What a vain woman…

Aqua leans towards me again, close enough to be uncomfortable, but she's nowhere near taken aback, and I can't help but suspect the reason. Basically, she doesn't care since she doesn't see me as a man, so there's no reason for her to be embarrassed should that be true. Erk, that realization automatically causes me damage…

"Well, I came here to see for myself who the candidates are whom Deus Ex Machina has chosen as his possible replacement," I narrow my gaze in discomfort as she was now inspecting me from top to bottom. "To be honest, I didn't think Deus Ex Machina would use humans from the original Terra. It's the first time I see a Prime… but, you don't look any different than any other human."

I simply shrug at her observation, not trusting my mouth to not say something sarcastic. I don't know what she was expecting, I'm a human, fundamentally there should be very little difference between myself and other humans. Then again… The thought of superhumans like Asuka with her abnormal strength, and actual espers existing springs to my mind.

Maybe there is a difference between our two humanities…

"Well, you certainly don't look the 'special' part, so then… why you, out of countless people? What is it about you that caught his attention?" She walks around me as she continues, and I'm getting a little tense here, "I haven't seen the other candidate yet and I hope they're at least more talkative."

Well, expect to be disappointed by Ayanokouji as he will probably do the same as me if not worse. There's a good chance he won't speak half as much as I did so far.

Either way, I make sure to shrug my shoulders again. She can come to her own conclusions about me if she'd like. I don't have to please her.

Hah… That makes twice that another divine being has disappointed me with their mannerisms. Are all gods as rotten as her and Deus Ex? Be thankful that Belldandy gives you lot a good name.

Hands on her hips, the goddess looks at me inquisitively, "Being a little uncooperative, aren't we?" She spun around, and I blink as she does as for a minuscule second I thought her short skirt was going to show more than it needed to. Ack, almost got a heart attack there… but… is it just me or was she not wearing anything underneath? I mean, oh forget it…

Aqua sat on the white chair, before picking up the book resting over the furniture at her side, her eyes directed at me for a mere second as if to watch my reaction. I betrayed none so she resumed her full attention to the book in her grasp.

As Aqua skimmed between it's many pages, I came to notice that there was something weird about it. The book had a strange design, but the part that caught my attention was that it seemed to add more pages the more that goddess kept flipping them. I guess it was magical, then?

The fact that this has become the norm is ridiculous…

"Let's see…" While she was muttering to herself, I could hear her clearly since this place was silent, eerily so. "Where is it…? Where is it…? Oh!" She finally stopped, tilting her head and smiling to herself, "Here you are… but not quite. I hope Deus Ex added your Prime biography, eh?"

Wait, my 'biography?' That book has information about me? No, she said that she's hoping that there's one for me as a Prime implying that the one she's looking over right now belongs to my previous self. What the hell is that book!? Give it to me so I can finally put that stupid mystery to rest!

"And here it is… for once he didn't forget," She giggles, pleased. On my end, not so much, "So much of a god he is. Could you believe it? He's actually a bit scatterbrained… hehe…"

Is she thinking aloud? Deus Ex being forgetful? Can forgetfulness really apply to gods such as them, especially him? I really don't think so, but who am I to say? They're all weird, so I wouldn't be surprised.

Now, how much information does that scary book hold about me? I mean, the me, me.

"Mmm?" Her suddenly raised eyebrow is not a good sign if my suspicions are correct, "So a loner, huh?" She says with a tilt on her head to the side, gazing at me with interest. "Before we get to it, wouldn't you like to take a seat?"

Before I know it, something forcibly buckled my knees from behind, off-balancing me and causing my body to collapse backwards. And while I expected to hit the ground I found myself sat onto the other chair, right across from her.

…Did she do that? I reflexively rubbed my knees even though there was no actual pain to register. Still, she didn't have to be rough about it, did she?

"So it began in elementary school?" Aqua commented, looking slightly amused. "Hikikaeru-san… That's a pun of your name in your own language, isn't it?"

I find myself frowning at her bringing up that old nickname. I didn't see why she felt the need to reference it, it was ancient history and fairly irrelevant for me at the time. Since back then, I still held onto false hopes. Back then, I wasn't a loner by choice.

Honestly, your one hiccup sounds like a croak and suddenly you've become a frog…

"Then…" She starts again, her cheerful tone bothers me to no end, "No hand holding, even for a small dance? Ouch… Humans are so mean. Not even your own teachers did anything."

My gaze narrows in irritation, involuntarily, but she paid no mind to it. My teachers during that time did try doing something, but it only ended up making things worse. Nobody likes being instructed to hang out with the least desirable member of the classroom after all. And despite her comments, she didn't look the least bit bothered. And now she's even humming some tune?

"Middle school wasn't better it seems," Her eyes clash with mine for a moment, "You couldn't catch a break, huh? Is it that hard to socialize amongst Prime humans?"

Again, I merely frown at her words. It wasn't a case of it being easy or hard for me, because the personal difficulty wasn't the issue, it was the reception of my attempts at socializing. That's what the main problem was. I always tried back then, but nothing came of it but humiliation after humiliation.

Since she got no response from me, Aqua decided to continue.

"Oooh, you liked someone at one point and confessed to her!" She said suddenly, raising her voice, "Oh, scratch that. You were rejected so many times!" She giggles in amusement, and I blink, not knowing what was so entertaining, "Were you trying to break a record or something?"

My brow twitches at her laughter. Is she doing this on purpose? Trying to rile me up for her own amusement? Unfortunately for her, I won't give her that satisfaction as all of that is in the past. What I thought I felt for them was merely multiple instances of superficial infatuation because I tricked myself into thinking that they felt something towards me. Nothing more, nothing less.

"Still not willing to speak? I suppose I can praise your endurance, but aren't you being a bit stubborn?" She crossed her legs and flipped another page, "A cosplayer? Why am I not surprised?"

This time I can't help but grimace, nearly groaning in the process. Ugh, don't remind me of my black history. I don't want to associate myself with the me of those times…

Aqua became silent, her eyes focused on the text of the strange book. I can't help but tense at that, wondering what might have drawn her attention in such a manner. She suddenly rests her elbows over the book, hands supporting her chin as she gazed at me in amusement.

"You actually thought you could start over in high school, is that it?" She said slowly, her voice quiet. "But then you were run over after saving that dog, which prevented you from having the fresh start you wanted. I have to wonder… What god did you piss off to hate you so much? How unfortunate indeed," She flipped yet another page, "Huh, you actually had a relatively quiet first year? And then during your second year in high school… You were coerced into joining a… Service Club? Is that something you think of as important to you?"

Slowly, but honestly, I nod at her question. The importance of the Service Club for me is something I'm ready to admit —even if her callous words about my misfortune on my first day rubbed me the wrong way. It was surprising when I first realized it, but still, it was undeniable.

"I see… You managed to get people to not completely dislike you," She commented cheerfully, even daring to wink at me. This woman… "But, oh my, your particular way of 'helping people.' You're finally getting people to like you and yet you decide to treat that girl so harshly? Who can understand you? I thought you wanted friends, right? You alienated yourself from the entire school."

I can easily guess that she's referring to the situation with Sagami during the Cultural Festival. But I have to wonder if she's properly reading that book, looking for friends was never part of my agenda, especially at that point. I suppose it's her interpretation given that she's read my entire life of failures, and as expected, she got the wrong idea.

I silently listen as she relayed what happened during the Kyoto trip, and the Student Council Presidential elections. Her comments were between veiled insults or feigned reverence, that gradually become easier to ignore. Although, her insistent jibes at my supposed wish to have friends is pretty annoying. I don't know where she's gotten that idea, with her knowing about that accident she should know that I embraced my loner lifestyle after that event.

Yet I can admit that the girls in my club, among some others, have become important to me.

While I realize that we are more than acquaintances and I hesitate to call them friends, because I had no idea what constituted 'friendship.' Seemingly, friends hold a deeper understanding among one another. For me, being understood didn't matter to me as long as I was able to understand. It wouldn't be until later that I expressed the thought about wanting to understand others. And it wouldn't be until later that I sought the desire for…

"'Something genuine?'" Her burst of laughter shook me out of my reverie, the book she read falling from her knees as he held her stomach, "Are you serious? What the heck is that!?" And her laughter continued, small tears forming on the corner of her eyes, "I… I've never heard of something so ridiculous, hehehe! Not even during all the time I have lived did I…"

Her next words were lost to me as she continued laughing at my expense. I wasn't sure what my expression was at the moment, but I knew it was one that would be classified as vulnerable at the very least. I felt a familiar and painful feeling in my chest, although it was at an intensity that I've never experienced before.

Was my deepest desire so pathetic to you, Goddess, that you would laugh at it?

Did it equate to so little that you would write it off as something ridiculous?

Was it that irrelevant to you?

I focus my gaze back at the still laughing goddess. I idly noticed that the pain in my chest was slowly lessening, but it wasn't being replaced by anger nor sadness. It was as if they were all retreating away, leaving behind only a cold numbness within me. With it there, I was able to take back control of my facial expression and immediately kill whatever pathetic face I had been showing. Not that it mattered, the girl was still raucously laughing to herself and paid no attention to me.

I'm done with this.

Without a beat, I stand up from my seat, bypassing whatever outside forces had kept me in a seated position and began to walk away from the girl and her book with a calm stride.

"Eh? W-wait! Where are you going!?" I ignored her and continued to be on my way, and while I didn't have a destination in mind, anywhere else was better than being close to that goddess. "H-hey! I'm talking to you, Hikigaya Hachiman-san! We're not done yet!"

I pay no attention to her hollering and continue forward. Maybe if I walk up to Deus Ex's throne and call for him, he'll show up? Then I can finally go back home.

The sound of a furious gait comes my way, totally expected considering how full of herself that goddess seems to be. She won't accept me leaving like this since her pride wouldn't allow for a mere human to leave her with her mouth opened. That's the kind of individual she's shown herself to be.

"Don't ignore me!"

But I continue my pace, disregarding her entirely.

Eventually, the blue-haired goddess stands before me, having apparently raced to catch up to me. Not that it mattered, I owed her nothing.

She bent over, hands on her knees as she caught her breath, "Y-you…" She finally raised her body, her face red, most likely from anger and exertion as she pointed a finger right at my face, but whatever she intended to say died in her throat, not having expected my countenance.

"What?" My voice was beyond cold, it held no fire to it as I wasn't expressing anger. It was almost foreign to me, being void of any emotion. I was sure that the gaze I was sending her was no less any different. I didn't hold hatred for her, surprisingly, I only saw her as nothing more than irrelevant. As if she were a pointless existence to me rather than the goddess she claimed to be.

"The…" Her voice faded, her raised hand already lowered as she remained fixed in her position. "N-nothing…"

That was easy enough. I walk past her as there was nothing else to be said.

"Wait…" I almost halted at that, surprised that she would call out again, but decided better of it and continued on, "Wait… Why are you ignoring me? Don't you know that ignoring goddesses is bad?"

This time, her words do have me stop. Regardless of how much she managed to damage my image of her, I wonder if it would be wise to completely disregard a divine being. She may not be the god I answer to, but, she is associated with him. Logic dictates that she likely has his ear and favor, which could lead to future problems that I am not prepared for.

She seems content, taking my pause as me giving her my attention, "Alright! Seems you're finally listening, let me explain why am I here then!" I continue to stare at her, unblinking, "You see, I asked Deus Ex Machina to summon you so I can meet you face to face."

Perfect, just what I needed. Deus Ex summoning me at the whims of others that have no business with me. Are superior beings always this inconsiderate? Belldandy aside, of course.

"And?"

She blinks at my curt tone, "And? Err… The thing is that I wanted to personally see the one I have put my bet on, well, technically…" She averts her gaze, muttering, "You weren't my first choice…"

I look at her curtly.

She shakes her head, "S-SO! What I'm saying is that I'm here to support you!"

I unconsciously let out a mirthless chuckle. Figures that whatever other gods that know of this game would be uncaring enough to treat my plight as an idle game among themselves. I couldn't care less if this girl didn't hold confidence in my winning, and I hold no trust in her either. She's just saving her investment, at the end of the day she doesn't care about which one of the two of us wins for anything other than bragging rights.

"I don't need false 'support' from a disingenuous source."

Aqua frowns, hands on her hips, "I thought you would be happy having a goddess such as myself giving you a hand!" She sighed to herself, "How rude…"

"I prefer the support of the goddess in my residence," I respond, my body relaxing a bit, my previous tension almost gone.

"Technically, she isn't a goddess," She raised a finger as she stated that with a reprimanding tone, something I find very irking. Everything about this… goddess, rubs me the wrong way. Picking up her book again, she flips several pages, "Belldandy… right? Did you know that they refer to themselves as such only because they are mythical beings? They come from the Nordic Myths."

I keep myself from overtly reacting to this sudden revelation. I already guessed the connection Belldandy and her people had with Norse mythologies, but the fact that she isn't a true goddess is a shock. And with her always stating that she cannot lie, that implies that even she doesn't know that.

So what does that make her then? Is she some kind of pseudo-deity? Or are her and her people something along the lines of 'pretenders to the throne?' False gods that distract from the real ones like Deus Ex and this girl?

Aqua, noticing my silence, smirks, "Oh, so you didn't know that?" She eyes the two seats behind us, "I can explain it to you, but, wouldn't it be better while we're more… comfortable?"

I'm silent for a brief while. This is an opportune moment, this girl can provide me with a wealth of knowledge that I'm severely lacking. I'm not sure how generous she'll be with it, and there's no doubt that she'll withhold things from me for her own amusement. She might even ask things of me in exchange.

But if that's all the cost… Then what's the problem? How these gods view me doesn't matter to me; pride won't help me win this game. I'd said I'd do anything to get back home, so what point was there to hesitate? I'll go along with whatever she wants until I no longer need her.

While no words came from me, I turned around and returned to the chair, making myself 'comfortable' on it as she had advised. I remain at attention, focused and prepared to think objectively as I bet a new dump of information will be revealed.

The blue-haired goddess did just the same, but she sported that smile of victory that grated on my nerves. But when I think about my end goal, I write it off as insignificant.

Crossing her legs, and resting her hands on the arms of her chair, she spoke, "I'm pleased we have reached an understanding, Hachiman-san." I raise an eyebrow, "Oh you don't mind me calling you directly, right? Since we're on the same team now."

"No," I responded to her inquiry. I wouldn't have cared if she gave me a humiliating nickname, the information she holds is more important.

She smiles in response, "You're free to refer to me as Aqua then. I hold no disdain for humans, so if you're more comfortable with that, just do so."

"That's fine," I nod at her. "You were saying?"

She cocks an eyebrow, obviously noticing that I'm not up for waiting time, that of course if there's a sense of time here, "Are you in a hurry? Your physical form is currently sleeping, so we have plenty of… well, let's call it 'time.'"

I allow my silence to answer her. I'm not here to enjoy myself, goddess. Get to your point.

"Alright. The woman that refers to herself as a goddess is a member of the Æsir tribe of nordic gods," She elaborates, "Their 'Heaven,' as they now call it, was formerly known as New Valhalla."

Well, if this new revelation has done anything, it's confirmed that Belldandy and her people really are connected to Norse mythology at least.

Does that mean that Asgard was divided then? There wouldn't be a need for a 'New' Valhalla if the 'Old' one was inaccessible to them. I can guess that them referring to it as 'Heaven' is done for the convenience of humans; though I'm sure that'd be blasphemous for anyone that follows any of the Abrahamic religions. So then, where does that leave 'Hell?' No doubt there's a Norse equivalent to it, but there must be a different connection between them outside of the mythological source —especially differing from the Christian equivalent. Enemies, perhaps, but I doubt it's anything like fallen gods and goddesses as observed in theology.

Gah, not knowing too much about foreign cultures makes this a lot tougher. But I do recall that Norse mythologies have multiple realms that are separate to each other. Asgard is where the gods like Odin and Thor are, and if I remember right… Humans live in their own one called… Middle Guard? …Midgard? Something like that. And there were many others that I can't be bothered to know…

There's also the fact that Belldandy told me about the schism between her people and the Angels of the Synapse, who are supposedly more in tune with Ancient Greek mythology if their namesakes are to be taken into account. But I have to wonder if there's really a connection there… Especially seeing as how they essentially broke away from a Norse-centric organization like the Agency.

It makes better sense now, that their central system was referred as Yggdrasil, but is it the same as mentioned in the myths? The so called 'World Tree?' Belldandy has always referred to it as a supercomputer though, so the human interpretation might not reflect the same in reality.

"Oh, it seems I caught your attention?" I blink, the female's voice taking me out of my inner musings. I raise my gaze again, noting the confident expression Aqua sported. "I know more about this… 'goddess' than she herself does, and I could share all that information to you for an advantage."

"What do you want?" I ask her immediately. She wouldn't have brought it up unless she wanted something, instead she would have continued. She wanted an incentive.

Her smile widened, cheeks gaining color, eyes gleaming in mischief as she crossed her legs, resting her back against the chair. She stared at me for several seconds, as if trying to see through me, but I'd bet that wasn't the case.

"What do I want, you say?" She repeats, resting her chin over her hand, "Well, now that you say it, there's something I'd like. I told you earlier that you could address me as Aqua, but actually, since you will be following my lead, I think it would be appropriate if you were to address me as Lady Aqua… or Aqua-sama, in your language of course."

Was that all?

"I understand, Aqua-sama."

She blinks twice, looking startled at my quick response and acceptance of her terms. I can understand it, since it was only moments ago that I was rejecting her help and her very existence. But as I mentioned before, fickle things like pride do not matter in the face of much needed information. I wouldn't have any problem in adhering to any of her requests no matter how demeaning it'd be for other people. That sort of thing doesn't matter to me.

"…even if you're used to pain, there are people who'd be hurt by watching you get hurt."

For a second time, Hiratsuka-sensei's words ring in my head. No doubt my actions would be disapproved of by the two in the Service Club, but I can't think on that. They aren't here, so nobody is getting hurt, right? It's the best situation.

Her perplexed expression is soon replaced by one of approval, as I expected, "Oh, You're actually very obliging. That's perfect then, with my help, you'll win the game," And she turns away, her face showing a dark expression, "And I'll show that little annoying midget who's boss…"

It doesn't take much of a genius to guess that she's probably referring to Muru Muru. Unless it's some other new god that decided to butt into the game like Aqua has. But I doubt that.

Still, I should have figured that shitty brat would be the one to place bets between Ayanokouji and I. On a side note, how powerful is that twerp? What exactly was she? A god? She didn't introduce herself as one. So if she isn't, what then?

"You said Belldandy's birth place was New Valhalla," She nods happily, "Why is there a new one? What was the point of the first one?"

Aqua tilts her head to the side, "Simply because they wanted to expand their influence to Midgard, or the Realm of Mortals… your realm… and they wanted to keep Hel from making Midgard a playground for devils." She said the last part so quick as if it wasn't important, but… in my book, that's actually a big deal. What's with her mixed priorities?

Huh, so there are devils, but are they the same as those referenced in religions?

"So Belldandy's people created a new city of sorts to watch over Midgard, and to protect us mortals from devils?" I inquire, feeling intrigued, but I remained stoic as showing eagerness would give her more power over me… more power than she has anyway. As much as I don't care about going along with her ego, I'd prefer not to distract her with useless praise.

"Something along those lines, but don't you concern yourself with such trivialities. We have a game to win, right?"

'Trivialities,' she says…

"Right," I nod anyway.

"You know, despite not being an actual goddess, not officially, Belldandy is special," I narrow my gaze, listening attentively to what Aqua was about to say. "Aren't you eager to know why? And have I mentioned that she has two sisters?"

"I only heard about one," I admit to her. Belldandy mentioned before how one of her sisters visited Planet Deviluke in the past, but I didn't feel the need to ask about it. Are her sisters connected to what makes Belldandy special? Or is Aqua saying it just to pique my interest even more?

Aqua makes a humming sound, amusement painting her face, "Well, I'm sure you'll meet them eventually… BUUUT! That isn't what makes your goddess special, she's actually th-"

"I believe that is quite enough, Aqua."

A mighty voice resounded all around us, one I recognized as Deus Ex Machina. Over us, a large platform materialized, with a large throne where the God of Time sat upon. It seems that he finally decided to show up, huh?

Can't say I'm happy about the interruption, but Aqua seems more than nervous at his sudden arrival.

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 08 Section: Song 01

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"D-D-D-Deus! I-I-I-I t-thought that you would t-take longer with Great Red!" The bluehead stammers, her eyes darting to all sides, "Ehg!? I-I-I-I was… y-you know, just che- AHHH! I didn't say cheating! I said, i-informing him a-about… eh…"

I silently raise an eyebrow at the stuttering mess of a girl. Could it be that I've come across another goddess who had issues with lying? She practically told Deus Ex what she was doing and horribly attempted to cover it up.

Well, now I know that Aqua was doing something she wasn't supposed to. Figures that would be the case, things were too good to be true. That makes her useless now. Somehow, labeling her as such felt fitting. Can't explain why, it just feels right.

"Whatever you planned to do, shall not proceed," Said the god sternly. "Revealing vital information could change the course of history. We cannot, by any means, alter the future by interfering directly ourselves. The game must continue, and the participants must do it on their own. Such is the purpose of the game."

"O-of course I k-know that!" Aqua stood from her sit, drops of sweat treading down her forehead, "T-the g-game is important! I wouldn't dare to use it for my own benefits! I swear!"

Excuse me, Aqua-san? Nobody accused you of having your own ulterior motives for being involved. You basically just told Deus Ex you had them, idiot goddess.

"I allowed your residence here as an observer of the game, but I will not tolerate any direct intervention," Stated the god firmly, his eyes suddenly trailing to his left, "The same applies for you, Muru Muru."

I blink, looking in the same direction, seeing nothing up there before a short flash of light revealed the tiny, annoying, whatever she is. Aqua's jaw dropped at that.

"You were here the whole time!?" Raising an accusing finger, Aqua exclaimed in disbelief.

Muru Muru grins, floating upside down over Aqua, "Don't worry Deus! I'm not a cheater like some dumb goddess I know!" And she finally looks at the nervous wreck below her, "And of course I was here, Aqua! I knew you would try to get some advantage over me. Too bad for you!"

"W-what are y-you talking about?" Aqua responded, feigning innocence. Geez… this goddess is so obvious that it's cringeworthy just to see her failing miserably at lying. I'm almost feeling secondhand embarrassment for her.

And, much to my irritation, the duo started to make fun of each other and babble idiotic stuff, yet Muru Muru quickly took the lead since she didn't seem to care about what Aqua had to say, at all. It took no time for the annoying blue-haired goddess to lose her composure completely, and promptly devolve into childish playground insults.

Well, I can much tell that I prefer the company of the apparently fake goddesses in Belldandy compared to any of her 'divine' counterparts. How ironic is it that she actually showed the maturity and compassion one would expect from an actual goddess? Instead, it seems the real goddesses can turn out to be like… these irritating women. What a disappointment… The 'false deity' is more 'real' than the actual thing.

"Silence. The both of you."

Deus Ex's command was enough to abruptly cut their non-friendly exchange, the duo froze briefly, fear evident on their features. It's not surprising though, as not only Deus Ex carries the title of God of Time, but also has the looks to simply intimidate even the most fearless of men, which none in here were, so to speak. Myself included. I'm human after all, and this god terrifies me to no end.

"Deux! Don't get angry!" Muru Muru said, floating towards him. Unlike Aqua, she manages to relax despite the god of time's fearsome presence. "We're just messing around a bit! Nothing wrong with that, right?"

The blue-haired goddess nodded her head frantically, still a nervous wreck. Well, at least she was intelligent enough to know that pissing off a god such as Deus Ex was a really bad idea. Seeing her tremble so much means that she's not as powerful as him, and seeing her, well… I'm not surprised.

Deus Ex Machina turned to me, "Let me apologize for the sudden summoning, Hachiman Hikigaya. The Water Goddess, Aqua, and my servant have, as you may have noticed by now, a clear difference between their perspectives. In order to prevent more infighting between them, I proposed an arrangement for them so they can solve their differences."

"That bet she mentioned, I imagine," I point out. I already gathered as much seeing how Aqua sees me more like an investment than anything else.

"That is one interesting way to put it, however accurate nonetheless. Aqua will now be following your progress in the game from the Cathedral of Causality, while still sending those that perish young to another world as was her original role."

That sounds awfully like… No, of course the Isekai genre is real in this reality…

Wait, isn't what I was going through technically an Isekai…?

"Y-yes! I will! Someone needs to defeat the Demon King, right!?" She nods to herself, suspiciously nervous. Pointing a finger at me, Aqua says while stuttering, "B-but that is a m-matter that shouldn't concern you, s-so you had better not die. I don't want to see you unless you are summoned to the Cathedral by Deus."

Great, now I have an even bigger incentive to not die. Ugh… I was just kidding when I talked about being summoned to another world if I bit the dust… I don't actually want to be reborn in an actual Isekai world burdened with some stupid mission like defeating a Demon King.

Sure I'd be escaping Deus Ex's game, but I'd essentially be trading one crappy existence for another. At least here I have a god's promise, dubious as it may seem, to be returned to my original world as the normal human I was, in an Isekai world I'd be dead and unable to return at all.

Either way, I merely nodded back at the blue-haired goddess, not knowing what else I could say to her odd request. It's not like I was planning to get killed or anything, you know?

"He probably will die, Aqua," The annoying little girl sticks her tongue to me, and I'm aware enough to not take the bait of her obvious jibe. "But Kiyotaka? He'll win the game, because all he desires is to do just that, unlike your chosen one." Muru Muru remarked confidently.

Aqua grit her teeth, fist balled, and face contorting into a scowl, "Whatever! I'm sure that with my guida-"

"I don't have to prove myself to either of you." I finally decide to cut into their argument, "I only have to answer to Deus Ex."

"That is undoubtedly correct." Hands intertwined, the time god stated in agreement. Turning towards the other two, "Observing, and eventually witnessing whom of the participants emerge victorious is all you two will be allowed to do. Is that clear?"

Aqua and Muru Muru respond simultaneously, "Yes!" / "Yeah, yeah…" Although the latter seemed more annoyed than intimidated.

I won't stand here and let these two treat me like some horse for the Group One. I don't have a pedigree, you know? Kaa-san might be genetically fine, but Oyaji didn't give me anything good at all.

"Neither of you have an incentive to involve yourselves for anything other than bragging rights over each other," I pipe up once more, "If Ayanokouji was half as smart as I think he was, he wouldn't trust anything the brat would tell him either. Her words can drag him into pointless danger just as likely as it could 'help' him."

Ayanokouji stated how easily people could be used, as if like puppets manipulated by outside forces being made to dance. I doubt he'd be willing to be used himself, even if it's for his benefit. I have no way to confirm this, and I might be completely wrong, but, that's just something I predict after our brief interactions. Ayanokouji Kiyotaka does not seem to be the type who would accept being Muru Muru's plaything.

Aqua folds her arms, apparently relaxing as she assumed that confident posture from before, "You say that now, but in due time you'll realize how much you'll need me. You'll beg for my divine help!"

I'm sure my expression displayed as much doubt as I felt at her attempt of 'reassuring' her level of reliability.

Muru Muru snickers, "Asking for her help will only get you in a far worse situation, I assure you, human."

"S-shut it! I'm the Goddess of Water! The Great Aqua, with thousands of followers in the continent of Falmart!" She puffed her chest proudly, hands on her hips, "The Order of Axis is proof of how loved and cherished I am! My vast knowledge and goodwill is known to all! People would kill to have me as their guide!" She blinks, "N-not that I'll let t-that happen…"

"That's a bunch of incompetent people, following an incompetent goddess!" Counters Muru Muru, harshly.

"Y-you little r-rat! If I wanted I'll-"

I turn away from their incessant arguing and look back at Deus Ex, "Are we done then?"

"Indeed. Do not let us retain you any longer."

A flash of light shone from above, from the time god's palm to be exact, until my eyes couldn't distinguish a thing anymore. But right before I left this 'dream realm,' I hear the irate cry of a certain blue-haired goddess.

"Hikigaya Hachiman-san! Just you wait! You'll be kissing my feet and begging for my help the next time you see me!"

Honestly, goddess or not, Belldandy is definitely a better company than you'd ever hope to be…

8-2

When my eyes opened, I noticed an immediate problem. It was still somewhat dark outside, and I felt fully rested. The sun was only just breaking through the horizon, allowing some visibility of the outside.

What am I doing awake this early? Why aren't I still tired from having less than eight hours of rest? Why do I fully feel rested!?

No… It couldn't be…

Did my accelerated recovery shorten my need of sleep!?

I let out a pathetic cry into my pillow. I knew that my abnormal healing allowed me to function with little rest yesterday, but I didn't think it'd actually make me require less of it in general! Argh! Give it back! Give me back my sleep!

Ugh… This is the worst… Someone send me to my eternal slumber already…

Though… why did it take until today for my sleep to get cut?

Well, now that I think about it, even if I was functioning on little sleep yesterday because of the previous night, my body was able to recover as the day went on. Not to mention that every other day tended to end with me being mentally fatigued more often than not, maybe that's what led me to having a full night's sleep those days.

Sunday wasn't particularly taxing for me, so my body wasn't in any need to recover. And with me having wiped my emotions of the previous night, there was no mental exhaustion to speak of either. For once in this aggravating world, I wasn't burdened with something tiring to think of or left physically exhausted. Instead only screaming myself to sleep out of embarrassment…

But having a generally calm day almost isn't worth losing slumber. Sleeping is the best thing to ever partake in life…

With another groan I glance at my digital alarm clock. I barely manage to keep myself from whimpering when I see it say it was 5:11am. It's not fair! Why was I being forced to lose sleep!? Damn you Deus Ex!

…Not knowing what else to do, I remain supine on my bed praying that I be whisked away to a this time dreamless rest for another hour or so. However, Deus Ex didn't show me mercy and of course the Rom-Com Gods only laughed at my misfortune.

Oi, Aqua, prove your usefulness and send me off to the non-dream realm of sleep. Only then will I be willing to listen to you.

Of course, it was all in vain, that blue-haired pathetic excuse for a goddess didn't answer my cries either. Even though I've met two of them, I'm rapidly beginning to lose faith in the gods that existed. The least you can do is grant me my sleep you bastards!

With a sigh, I decide to sit up. Glancing at the clock again, I note that I wasted less than five minutes in my complaining and failed attempts to return to dreamland. I still had plenty of time before I even needed to get ready for school. So what should I do?

I guess I can take a bath, a long one seeing as how everyone else took theirs yesterday night. I doubt anybody will be awake right now, no wait, I'm sure my parents are getting ready. Same as in my world, they have early hours in their probably equally-as-soul-draining jobs. I'll be sure to reap all the benefits of your sacrifices, Kaa-san, Oyaji…

I grimace as a brief twinge pulses in my head. Argh… I hate that it always happens every time I visit Deus Ex's realm.

As the pain faded away, I recollect what happened during my latest visit. I met the unpleasant Aqua, found out that she and Muru Muru are treating my situation as an opportunity to settle a bet, and that Belldandy wasn't a true goddess. I didn't get to learn more than that, so there's not much I can do.

Hah… Well, no point in brooding about it. I have a bath to look forward to.

Yeah, might as well, I have nothing better to do at the moment. Plus, it will free me up to do nothing before having to go to school.

Ah, right, I should probably write down what I learned about Belldandy and her people… You never know.

8-3

I release a breath as I exited the bathroom, dressed for the day. I took my school bag from where I placed it before bathing.

I had to admit, finally having the time to enjoy a bath was something I was lacking this past week. My previous times were always cut short or interrupted by some pests, eliminating the point of it being a relaxing experience. Having my bath to myself this morning was something I hadn't realized I missed so badly. I'll never take you for granted ever again, Tub-san!

Which reminds me, tomorrow will mark a full week since I arrived, yeah? I'm not sure whether it's passing quickly or lingering for too long. Too many things happened and I'm certain that today will end it with a high note…

I'm so not excited for it…

I glance at the clock as I begin to head downstairs, prepared for the inevitable headache that will come today. 6:17am, huh? Still early, but that's fine. Gives me more time to enjoy breakfast.

Huh, maybe being up early isn't so bad…

Still, the sacrifice of my precious sleep was too steep of a price for this novel experience. Ah, I shouldn't think about this anymore, I don't want to grieve for my loss so early in the morning.

"Haa-chan?" I blink at the nickname, recognizing a face I saw just yesterday gazing at me with amusement. It was Yuuki's little sister… Mikan, wasn't it? What was she doing here so early?

"Mi-chan," I reflexively call out her apparent nickname, "You're here early."

"Hachiman-san," The resident goddess smiles warmly as she sees me. Truly, she acts the part of a divine being more than the others. "Good morning."

I give her a nod before turning to my little sister.

"Ah, Onii-chan," Komachi glances at me in surprise, and sends me a timid smile, "Morning."

"Yeah, morning." I greet them.

I head towards the table and hang my school bag on my chair, not missing Mikan's continuous stare. It wasn't something particularly bothersome, so I pay it no mind. As was now regular, a delicious-looking breakfast was being served, and I actually felt fortunate. Hah… I can't wait for the coffee.

"Haa-chan?"

I blink, my eyes slowly moving to my left, where Yuuki's younger sister was sitting, "What is it?"

She raises an eyebrow, her elbows supported on the table, her chin resting on her hands as she smiled, an odd expression to be seen in someone so young, "You tell me. What's going on?"

"About?" I ask curiously, not knowing what she meant.

"I heard you've been doing things…" She starts, and while I wait for her to continue, all she does is stare. It was a bit unsettling, this little girl is something else…

"You'll have to be more specific," I point out to her, "I had a busy week."

Instead of responding, the brunette turns to Komachi, who was across from her, amusement still painting the younger girl's face, "Komachi? Do you know what I'm talking about?"

My sister becomes startled at the sudden attention, eyes darting between us before dropping in discomfort, "Um… w-well… I suppose a bit…"

"So?" She pressed, and I could tell Mikan was deliberately avoiding my gaze.

Belldandy turned to us in that moment, apparently sensing Komachi's distress. All I can do to help my uneasy sister is send her a reassuring nod, as if telling her that it's alright.

"Onii-chan now gets along with Miura-san… right?" She asks timidly, barely meeting my gaze with hers. Looking her so doubtful really bothers me dammit…

I take a moment before responding. I didn't think that the Miura situation reached this far. Is there anybody that doesn't know about it? "We're acquaintances at the very least."

And finally Mikan turns to me, that clever smile still present, "Acquaintances?"

I raise an eyebrow, wondering what she was trying to imply, but wisely decided not to take the bait. "Yeah."

"I see…" She mutters, but her expression didn't change, as if expecting it, "I don't think she sees you as just that. Maybe someone here is pretending to be dense?"

This girl… is dangerous. In a whole different sense of all the women I interacted with so far. How is it possible that she's Yuuki's sister? She's the complete opposite of what he is. Could it be that she actually has her intuition attribute maxed out?

But it seems that Miura's yearning towards my previous self was broadcasted to everyone in this circle of friends and even spread to this girl. Either everyone in the group was a loudmouth or the other Hachiman told them without a care because of his sheer disregard of Miura's feelings. I'm inclined to believe that the latter was the case, willing myself to not let my anger get the better of me as that fact alone could let Belldandy sense it.

How did I end up in these circumstances? And so early in the morning? What's with this cycle of continuous burdened mornings?

Argh… But since that was the case, I couldn't very well pretend to be ignorant about it. I'd immediately be called out on it and damage my image for both Belldandy and Komachi. Not to mention that Mikan is more familiar with me, no doubt me pointlessly running away would be seen as suspicious.

Still, I frowned at her words and chose mine carefully, "We resolved our differences… But that doesn't mean that we're anything more than acquaintances, no matter what we think of one another."

For the first time, Mikan shows a rather surprised expression as she observes me closely, "Huh… I didn't expect that…" She exchanges a glance with Komachi, "This is actually the first time you managed to clear my doubts… and that is kind of unsettling, Haa-chan…"

Komachi nods at that, "Usually Onii-chan would start sulking and become silent."

I could have gotten away with not saying anything!? Damn it!

"Just like that!" Mikan points a finger at my face, Komachi nodding in agreement, "That's the face Haa-chan!"

Ugh…

I hear Belldandy giggling in the background, and I have to muster all my energy in not grinding my palm into my face. I opened my mouth to speak, and before I do, my phone rings, effectively cutting off their entertainment. After a quick glance at them to gauge their reactions, I take it out from my pocket, only to see the name of the caller.

Gasai Yuno.

I refrain from making any expression, since doing so would only give Mikan more fuel to continue her teasing, or whatever she's trying to do.

"…Sorry, I should take this," I mutter blankly as I get up from my chair, intent on going outside for privacy, "Don't wait up for me."

Mikan blinks before a smile of complicity invades her features, eyes glinting in realization, "Oh, take your time, Haa-chan. And can you call Rito? I bet he's still sleeping even though he has exams today."

She called her older brother by his name? Didn't she call him 'Onii-chan' yesterday? And why do I have to get stuck waking him up? If he oversleeps, that's his own fault for being an idiot and not having an alarm. Hah…

Whatever, there's no use in thinking about such unimportant matters. I have a stalker calling me right now, so it's obvious what my current priority should be.

Not that I'm looking forward to it anyway. Geh… Even if I don't feel anything towards Gasai after Saturday night doesn't mean I wanted to talk to her.

With the closed door behind me, as my sight takes in the surroundings of my house, I finally take a breath to relax before answering the phone, which by now is the third time she's calling. I bet she's not planning to stop, then again, I'd actually prefer if she didn't as there has been something I've been meaning to ask her. Might as well deal with it now.

"Yeah?" And no response came, so I ask, "Hello?"

"Hachi…?" Her voice finally comes from the auricular, "Hachi! It's so nice to hear you."

"We talked yesterday," I straightly respond, opposing her overt happiness. It's not like this was a heartfelt reunion.

Some few seconds pass, in which she's probably absorbing my curt response… not that I care. Well, I should try to tone it down a bit. The last thing I need is her being set off because she thinks I don't care about her anymore, which is true, but for my safety and those around me, I must refrain from making that known to her.

"Hachi… are you mad again?"

I sigh to myself, and decide to throw her a bone, "Not really, just tired is all."

"From going out with that bit- I-I mean, with that woman?"

I narrow my gaze at what she intended to say, but choose to overlook it… For now. "It might have been that. My night was no less stressful either. Is that a problem?"

"N-no, no… of course not…"

Wait a minute. How does she know? Oh right, she's a stalker… Recalling the effective methods my Saturday/Sunday self used in order to quell Gasai, I begin my inquiry.

"Well? Where did you hear about that?" I asked inquisitively, taking some steps around my yard, "My outing yesterday, I mean. I don't recall ever confirming it to you."

A gasp comes from my phone, making me narrow my gaze, "E-eh… I-I j-just happened to spot you whe-"

"If you're gonna start lying, Yuno, then we're taking a few steps backwards, you know?" I say sternly, using her given name to hammer my point home. "That's no good."

"Yeah… I'm sorry, Hachi… It won't happen again…"

"So?"

"I followed you…" She responds, almost quietly.

"Hoh… And why is that, Yuno?" I ask her almost casually, borrowing Usui's usual tone. Of course my intent was the opposite of how it came off as, and I'm sure she knew that.

"It's because… I wanted to see you…" Her voice still remains low.

"I'm fairly sure I told you that I would be busy yesterday," I elaborate, "Were you 'checking up' on me? I thought you said you trusted me?"

"I-I do but I don't trust other women…"

She has a point whether I like it or not. Still, I won't relent.

"But if you don't trust who I interact with, doesn't that imply you don't trust my judgement?" I 'playfully' ask the girl, "That hurts, Gasai."

Ugh… This play acting is rapidly becoming aggravating.

"N-no! It's not that… I'm just a bit worried, you know?" She giggles, nervously, but she does, "I-I suppose I'll j-just have to get used to it."

I take some time before responding. Obviously no good would come out if I were to let her continue stalking me and keeping tabs on me. I've been lucky that she apparently wasn't around to hear me tell Usui about my predicament. But I don't want to have to be paranoid everytime I'm outside because of this pink-haired weirdo.

"Don't you think that it'd be better if you held more faith in me?" I inquire, appealing to her obsessive feelings for me like before, "By not following me, you'd only be proving your trust for me, right?"

"Is it, Hachi?" Came her monotone voice, "Or are you trying to get rid of me?"

This wasn't good… She's not buying it. I suppose I should turn up the manipulation up a tad.

"The fact that you're even asking me that proves your insecurities and doubts about me," I state coldly, "That's disappointing."

A hear a hitch in her voice, "I… I just don't understand why you push me away, Hachi… I just want to protect you, so nothing bad happens to you again! Is it that wrong for me to want to watch over you?"

If my memories of Saturday were anything to go by, you were the direct source of the worst thing that's ever happened to me, Gasai-san. The only reason I came out unscathed was because of a fantastical device courtesy of a certain alien. Even if there was a cost afterwards.

"It's not about right or wrong," I tell her.

"But…"

"You said you trusted me, Gasai," I offer her this time, "You can either prove that you do, or you can continue to silently follow me, and prove yourself a hypocrite. It can't be both."

Silence comes, seconds passing as I wait for her response. I spot Aikawa leaving his house, noticing me. Great, he's coming over…

"Hachi?" Her voice final comes from the phone.

"Did you decide then?" I ask back, while putting up a hand to keep my neighbor from greeting me. He simply shrugs and nods his head.

"I want to prove that I can be trusted, so… I guess I'll stop… but… if something ever happens to you again, Hachi, I won't leave you for even one second!"

I repress myself from shuddering, given my current audience. That's something I wouldn't want happening anytime soon…

"I'll keep that in mind," I respond to her new resolve evenly, "But I'll be fine."

Aikawa raises an eyebrow, and it's my time to shrug my shoulders.

"Let's hope so, Hachi…" She mutters dryly, and I raise an eyebrow, involuntarily. She disregards her earlier tone and continues brightly, "I'll call you later, alright? Gotta go to school, hehe."

"That's fine," I say in agreement. And here I thought she didn't attend school and just had the uniform for some reason. I'm surprised to know she actually does… but… what kind of school would accept someone like her? Bah, whatever… "Later."

"Alright, Hachi. Have a great day!"

And with that, her line cut off. I release a sigh in relief. Good grief, that woman is too troublesome to talk with… Then again, every woman is troublesome to talk with, admittedly, some less than others…

I glance at my phone before pocketing it, before turning my attention to Aikawa. As per usual, he only wore a simple shirt, even this early in the morning. We're in deep Fall, how can you not be bothered by the cold? I mean, right now I swear I'd be shivering to death if it wasn't for this blazer, and even then it's still chilly!

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 08 Section: Song 02

---

"I assume that was a girl," The boy with almost white hair smirks, as if jesting.

What the!? How the hell did you figure that out!?

"Does it matter if it was?" I asked tentatively, glancing briefly behind me. Yikes, was I that paranoid of one of the girls inside overhearing this?

"Not really. You always had that ability to gather attention even if you didn't want to," Aikawa releases a short yawn and adds, "Girl's seem to like that bad boy aura thing. Can't get why, but they do for some reason. Beats me."

I stare incredulously at the boy in front of me. Who the heck's the bad boy? What about me says 'Bad Boy'? Argh… That stupid alternate self stuck me with a stupid stigma…

"Mind trading?" I ask almost seriously.

He snickers in amusement, "You serious? Well, while I wouldn't mind the company of the opposite sex, we both know it's too troublesome. I just want to have a peaceful life, you know? Chicks are always a pain to deal with."

Oi, you either don't mind them or you find them too troublesome. Pick one, dammit.

I grunted in agreement, "People in general are a pain."

He laughs at that, "Can't say you're wrong there." He glances behind me, his smirk back. "Anyway, you're up really early, dude. Your guests didn't let you sleep?"

I shrug back at him, "You can say that."

He blinks, looking startled, leaning slightly at me, "Wait… are you for real? Did you bang them!?"

"Wha!?" My eyes widen completely and I almost sputter in shock. How the hell did you reach that conclusion!? You're a sexual deviant, aren't you?

"I didn't, dumbass!" I barked at the idiot, "Get your head out of the gutter."

Aikawa stares at me for a few seconds, "Well, considering what you used to do with Yukinoshita-san, it wouldn't be that surprising, you know? Out of all of us, you're the most…" He paused briefly, deadpanning, "Let's call it: experienced."

Thank you, Aikawa. Just what I needed. A reminder of being the host of a tainted body, and what is worse, participating in such an event with that woman, Haruno-san, of all people. It's hard to handle having such a contaminated body with my soul being as pure as a clean toilet.

That aside, the fact that he mentioned her already rubs me the wrong way.

"That doesn't mean I'd take advantage of them," I state irately, almost insulted for my two guests he was alluding to.

"Whoa, whoa, relax there, would you?" With arms raised defensively, he backs away a bit. "Just joking, man. Don't take it seriously."

"Don't bring them up," I say tersely.

After what they've done for me this past weekend; both Belldandy and Deviluke, at the very least, deserve a modicum of respect from the others. I won't accept anything less.

My action earned a reaction from him in the form of raised brows. His gaze locks on me, as if understanding my intent, "Sorry, dude. Didn't mean it. You really care about them, don't you? That's cool."

I pause at his words. Did I care? I know that they cared for me, for reasons I still can't figure out, but has it gotten to the point in which I reciprocate their feelings?

In the most basic aspect, I suppose I did. I don't wish harm on them, I don't mind their presence as much anymore, and I engage in conversation with them. But did that really translate that I cared?

No, I don't think it did necessarily. But… I have noticed that I go out of my way to reassure them whenever they feel unsure of something or the other. I also recall being significantly more considerate towards them during those occasions as well, outside of Deviluke in the morning I ridiculed her feelings.

This could be easily explained as me keeping them content in order for me to determine their participation in the game. But when I think about the moments they embraced me during the early hours of Sunday morning, I feel that it couldn't be the case. I predicted that they held genuine care for me, even if I didn't know the reasons, I couldn't deny that. Saying that I was essentially guarding my investments, so to speak, is an insult towards the two females. And simply proclaiming that I was grateful for their help wasn't enough either. So perhaps…

Perhaps, I did care.

…It wasn't at the level of Yukinoshita and Yuigahama, nowhere near it. But it was there.

Wasn't that dangerous? If one of them were the creation…

I shake my head. Don't think on that yet, focus on the first issue, Hachiman. You did care, at least somewhat. I admit that much.

"I have a lot that I'm grateful towards them for," I respond vaguely.

But he doesn't need to know that was the case. Even if you took away the fact that he was still an unknown, how I saw those two wasn't his business anyway. He already witnessed something he shouldn't have some days ago. I'd rather not have him further delve into my guests to prevent future problems from arising.

"Huh, that's actually surprising to hear," Aikawa comments, arms folded. "Coming from you, that is. But I suppose that's alright."

"Right," I shrug my shoulders, "So did you need something?"

"Not really," He shrugs back, his gaze drifting into the distance, where the sun was still rising from. "Watching the dawn is relaxing, so I come out to observe once in a while. There's nothing more peaceful than that, you know?"

"Sleep is," I pipe up dryly, still bitter about losing it. Truly, losing my ability for a full night's sleep is the most tragic loss a person could experience… Someone pity me dammit!

"Not when you have nightmares, you know?" He points out, turning to me, "But I suppose that's random, so meh… you get half a point."

"There's just as much chance of missing the sunrise because of cloudy weather," I counter, "That's one half point, because sleep is clearly superior, but it's now further halved because of unpredictable weather. Meaning, I win."

I ignore a familiar voice in the back of my head insulting my mastery of mathematics to earn my victory here.

Aikawa deadpans, before laughing, "Then it's my loss I guess."

"Naturally," I nod, which earns me another laugh from my companion.

Aikawa scratches his head slightly, "Haha. Oh, I wanted to ask you something, kind of forgot the other day."

I raise an eyebrow in curiosity, "Shoot."

Aikawa looked unsure for some reason, as if uncertain, "Mind lending me the entire Metronome in Love series?" He asked slowly, his tone somewhat cautious as if prepared for a verbal lashing. "I know you got two copies stored apart from the one you used, and Aki won't shut up about how great it is."

I blink at the idea of having three separate copies of the same series. That's something normally reserved by collector's or something, right? One to read, one spare and the other to keep in storage? I never saw the appeal; unless it was signed, then I could understand. But then I remembered, those were Kasumigaoka's stories.

I recall Usui telling me that my previous self was a fan of it, so much so that the entire reason why 'I' hated Miura was because she ruined the particular copy he had gotten signed. But what was the big deal? He knows the author personally, she could have easily signed another one. Must have been a sentimental thing… It'd be pretty petty if that wasn't the case.

Destroy a person's social life and high school experience just for an easily accessible item? No one can be that self-centered.

"Why not just buy it?" I ask blankly.

"I don't get my allowance 'til next week, so I gotta survive with what I have. Fixing the fridge left me in the red. Besides, what are friends for, if not to share stuff, right?"

Is that what they're for? To blatantly abuse your title and gain access to things you wouldn't have otherwise? I've been lied to by Shonen and Kodomo anime!

I ignore his usage of the 'F word', and blandly ask, "Isn't there another one you can ask, particularly your other neighbor?"

Aikawa becomes thoughtful, a hand under his chin, "Mmm, I don't think he has it. Didn't Usui tell him it had a steamy scene or something?" He grinned, "Rito is a chicken when it comes down to that kind of stuff. Besides, Mikan would scold him if she ever found something of that sort."

I very much doubted Kasumigaoka was that kind of author. Even after the incident with my bloody, and soy-sauced finger… Geh…

Shaking the thought away, I look at him flatly, "And he believed that guy?"

"You know how gullible Rito is, dude. Plus, he's the kind that by just telling him to imagine Sairenji in her underwear is enough for his mind to explode, haha."

If he's that bad off with his imagination… Did I really want to run the risk of seeing something traumatic by waking him from a… 'good dream'? Mikan wanted me to make sure he gets up, right?

Ugh, no way. I don't want to squander the heavenly breakfast that awaits me after losing my appetite…

"Fine," I sigh, "Go wake up Yuuki and I'll lend them to you before I head out."

Aikawa blinks, "Really? You will?" He narrows his gaze, as if skeptical. "I honestly expected you to refuse. You really are acting strange, but, if I can get a chance to read the creation of the legendary writer, Kasumi Utako, Aki's words actually," He laughs, "Then it's cool. Act as weird you want, dude."

I feel my eyebrow twitch in annoyance, "Whatever. Just go wake him up first."

"Mikan-chan'd do it anyway, but sure, boss," Aikawa waves a hand at me before heading to Yuuki's house.

"Mika- er, Mi-chan is having breakfast at my house," Aikawa looks a little startled, probably because I noticeably slipped.

"Really? Well, I suppose someone has to wake up that lazy idiot."

I nodded my head at him, before he sets up to carry the task, however, I can't help rolling my eyes, actually irked by his earlier comments. I try to be a little generous and I get called weird… Don't expect me to do so again, Aikawa!

Whatever, this saves me the time of doing the deed myself, meaning I can enjoy my breakfast a while longer! With delicious free food to look forward to, I turn back around to enter my house.

Right before I opened my door, I manage to hear two distinct cries of horror emanating from a certain short idiot's home. I chuckled in amusement at the probability of what happened when Aikawa walked into Yuuki's room unannounced.

Serves you right for being so dismissive of my rare instance of generosity, Lazy-kun. You unintentionally upgraded your relationship with Short-kun to a deeper level with little effort on your part.

Yuuki's a growing boy in the cusp of youth and raging hormones after all. Surely this experience can serve as something to bond over. Or it could serve as a cautionary tale to never walk into a fourteen year old boy's room without making sure he's awake and alert beforehand.

Whichever it led to, I still find myself smirking at the swift justice that was served this morning.

8-4

"Haa-chan? Back already?"

I'm greeted once more by the youngest of the Yuuki siblings, as she was setting the table. Komachi and Belldandy were still in the kitchen, and thankfully, Deviluke is still nowhere to be seen, so I can imagine she's still sleeping. Maybe I should try escaping before I'm stuck with dealing with both her advances on me and Mikan's teasing nature.

But… I can't by any means ignore the godly food that will be served soon.

I see now… This is one of those moments where one has to make a decision that serves to separate the boy from the man. To either bask in the glorious breakfast prepared by a goddess and suffer through the teasing/interrogation of a girl who is not only close to you, but lacks the filter to keep herself from asking things that can become gradually dangerous, or sacrifice said banquet to keep your sanity.

Maybe I can do both…

"Yeah," I nod at her, "I made sure he's awake."

Technically the truth.

"You, or Ayumu-san?"

I can't help but scoff internally at being immediately questioned. This girl's good, real good. I can only suspect she knows me that well that she didn't hesitate to question me. Unless she's actually a mind reader… But I can't happen to know one, right…? Even that will have to be too much of a coincidence.

"Whichever you believe most," I say in nigh exasperation.

"Saw you from the window, Haa-chan," She responded playfully before heading to the kitchen.

I blink, not knowing how to react. Well, that was a lot simpler than I imagined. I think that witnessing supernatural things on a daily basis is making me overthink what would be otherwise normal. I can't be blamed though, one tends to forget the simple things when facing abnormality at its finest.

"Er, did you hear anything?" I ask uneasily, not wanting her to have fuel for further teasing.

Mikan looks at me over her shoulder with a twinkle in her eye, "Just saw you with Ayumu-san out there… or was there something else I should have listened in on?"

I shrug my shoulders at her knowing tone, but decided not to call her bluff, "Not really, Aikawa was just talking nonsense is all."

She receives from Belldandy some dishes for breakfast before turning to me with that smug and amused face of hers, seriously not the kind of expression a girl her age should be able to sport. Wait… I think I already mentioned that…

"Maybe he was asking about the call from your girlfriend?"

I was about to groan at that suggestion being brought up again before…

*CRASH*

I blink at the sudden sound, and turn to where a plate now laid in pieces before Belldandy's feet. Komachi looks at her with concern as she approaches her. A frown invades my face at that.

"Bell-chan?" Komachi leans to her, yet she receives no response, "Bell-chan?"

The goddess blinks in response to Komachi's call, and lets out a soft yelp, instantly kneeling to pick up the pieces all over the floor. Komachi does as well, yet she continues to observe Belldandy in concern. I can't blame her since the goddess usually showed that kind smile when she was around. Such a smile was currently absent as a disturbed expression dominated her features.

Ack, was the aspect of me getting a girlfriend so unthinkable that it causes Belldandy to have an existential crisis at the mere thought of it!?

"I-I apologize, Komachi-sama. I was a bit distracted…"

Mikan looks at her and then at me, "Haa-chan. You really got yourself a girlfriend? It's not that girl from the train security group, right?"

Who? I reflexively raise an eyebrow in confusion of her surprisingly disapproving tone. I feel as though I should be recalling someone right now… Hopefully my face looked incredulous for Mikan instead.

"I'm not dating her, or anyone for that matter," I respond easily enough. Not lying here, so I'm cleared of any charges. The judges can't find me guilty of this one.

Mikan makes a humming sound, "If it's not that girl, Sakurai-san, then it's Kasumigaoka-san?"

I roll my eyes, suppressing a sigh. Still insisting, huh? "What part of 'I'm not dating anyone' did you miss?"

"Just joking, Haa-chan, hehe," She winks at me. "You already have Deviluke-san, right? Or at least that's what she said yesterday."

The mischievous grin she sends me doesn't annoy me this time, funnily enough. In fact, it reminded me of the ones Komachi would send me whenever she tried to be smug when she was Mikan's age. Back then, they would aggravate me at first but I eventually grew to not mind them as much because of how cute she looked. Ah, that should score me some Hachiman Points!

Because of the familiar sight, Onii-chan Mode activated on its own and caused me to act. I reach out and pinch Mikan's cheek, startling her into silence.

"You're too young to be gossiping like one of those old hags, Mi-chan," I huffed at her in wry amusement and pull my hand away. Onii-chan Mode is too strong of an ability, why haven't the administrators patched it yet!? Truly, this Hachiman Skill is becoming more of a curse as the days go on…

Out of the corner of my eye, I notice Komachi's reaction to my accidental display of brotherly affection with someone who wasn't my sister. It takes everything within me to keep from showing anything at seeing her forlorn and longing expression. I had to settle with balling my fist for a single second. I can't let this get to me, not in front of them, so I force myself to expel any frustrations I felt towards my precious sister's inner strife. I don't want to be obvious to Belldandy's senses.

While there was embarrassment relayed in Mikan's face, it was currently overtaken by her bewilderment, "Haa-chan? Is… everything alright?

I blink at her tone, which sounded hesitant as if my answer might lead to anxiety for her.

"Huh? Of course everything's fine. Why?" I question her, while also attempting to reassure her worries. Must be my natural instincts as an older brother at play again.

"Ah, dunno… Rito was saying you're sort of different all of a sudden… but I actually like your eyes now, hehe," She stuck out her tongue playfully, "They look funny."

I'm silent for a few seconds. While her second comment about them leaves much to be desired, I still didn't expect to hear her say how something positive about my eyes again, let alone her liking them. That would make two, wouldn't it? Wait, actually three. I remember Miura saying how she liked them too last week as well, but the very first one was Hiratsuka-sensei, right? No, no, it was actually four. Deviluke called them… 'hot,' and claimed that they reminded her of her father.

Ugh… I really wish she hadn't said that. Let's get back to Mikan…

"That second remark was unnecessary," I state with a humored scoff.

She blinks, momentarily startled, but she lets a grin readorn her features, "I mean it in a good way though," She turns to an unsuspecting Komachi, who yelps slightly at the attention, "Right, Komachi?"

"Y-yeah… they… somehow suit him better…" My sister nods slowly, shyly gazing at me.

I find myself chuckling lightly at hearing Komachi say that, and honestly, a bit surprised as well. I think this was the first 'compliment' I heard from Komachi since coming to this world, but I suppose I can appreciate it, even if it's only about a superficial aspect. Because of that, I feel grateful for Mikan bringing her into the conversation. I now have an excuse to be a proper brother to her.

My steps echoed in the room as I slowly walk towards Belldandy, who was now composed and smiling again, and fondly ruffle my dear imouto's hair as I pass by her, "Thanks."

Komachi yelps in surprise at my touch, but I don't hesitate. Her cheeks take up a rosy color, eyes shut and lips pursed, as if she feared the worst. I deflate at that, however, she slowly opens her eyes, as if forcing herself to relax. I stare at her for a few seconds, being sure to keep my dismay to myself, when she finally nods her head, albeit shyly. Not knowing what else to do, I send her a small smile and lift my hand away from her.

"Here's your bento, Hachiman-san," I turned to the goddess, extending the bento to me. Her deep blue eyes glance briefly at my sister as her kind smile widens, and I understood very well why.

Belldandy had realized that while minor, the exchange between us, as brother and sister, had been a more than pleasant one. No doubt Komachi relayed to her the failures of the previous Hachiman and expected the same from me. That's not something I ever want to do, regardless of how out of character it is of 'me.'

I'll come up with a million apologies in order to mend whatever damage he's done to this Komachi.

I take the small box of lunch and store it in my school bag with a small thanks towards the goddess. I quickly took a swig from a served glass of orange juice and grab a freshly toasted slice of bread from Belldandy. Looks like I'm retreating after all… I'm sorry, heavenly breakfast, the cost of eating you with present company was too high!

"Will you not join us, Hachiman-san?" The goddess asks me in surprise.

"Can't," I lie, finishing the toast, "Just remembered that my guidance counselor wanted to see me early because of Thursday's situation. Sorry."

"Oh…" I thought I heard disappointment in her tone, but that was preposterous.

---

Go to profile, SEE: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 08 Section: Picture 02

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"Haa-chan…" I look behind my left shoulder, spotting Mikan pouting at me. Wait, what are you sulking for? "Breakfast is important."

"I'll be fine," I respond easily.

"Since when are you so confident, Haa-chan?"

Mikan's puffed cheeks reminded me of a younger Komachi again, I find that she has a knack for that. Must be a shared ability between imoutos.

Like before, her expression is very effective on me and Onii-chan Mode strikes again.

"I'm always confident."

When I pass by her as I exited the kitchen, making sure to ruffle Komachi's hair again beforehand, I pinch Mi-chan's opposite cheek this time, "Try not to act too bratty today, Mi-chan."

"Haa-chan!" She whines, but I can hear a bit of playfulness in her tone. I can't help but chuckle again, nostalgia striking me. If I play my cards right, I may be able to have this kind of banter with the new Komachi in the future.

I stand by the door and casually waved a hand at her, "Belldandy's breakfast will get cold. Be sure to enjoy it," I glance at the woman with magnificent cooking-abilities, "I have to grab some stuff and then head off."

I'm met with a trio of nods before I go upstairs and head back into my room. I quickly locate my objective items on a bookshelf; choosing the visually more worn copies of Kasumigaoka's five volumes of novels to pick out of and putting them in my bookbag. I briefly gaze at the other set of the Metronome in Love then, wondering why this series was so acclaimed by Aki.

And now that I think about it… I haven't even investigated this room after finding the… 'research material' in the closet. I should probably do that when I find the time.

I continue to stare at the other set of copies, noticing I couldn't see the supposed third set anywhere on the shelf. My previous self probably stored them in a more secure place to prevent them from getting damaged…

Huh, collectors are weird, but then again, I suppose I can understand them, if only a bit. I'm an avid light novel reader myself after all. Some series turn out to be really good, so holding copies to ensure the material never gets lost is probably a good idea.

I pick up the first volume of Metronome in Love out of the better spares, and I study the cover. It was nothing extraordinary, since it displayed the protagonists, a boy with black, short hair in the background, and a girl with shoulder-length, dark brown hair, both high schoolers. Below them in a pink area was the name of the series. It looked pretty standard, but… I won't let that fool me, as I had learnt to never judge a book by its cover. It applied to people, so why would it not work on the actual thing?

I should probably read it to see what's the big deal, and maybe who knows, it could help me discover something about its author? I wasn't looking forward to that honestly, but sadly, the game requires it.

Though I wonder if I should take it to school? Given their… conflicting relationship… Miura probably won't appreciate me reading Kasumigaoka's work at Sobu. I doubt she'd try ruining it again seeing how the writer will be a continuous acquaintance in my life, well, she has to be anyway. With how my relationship between the Fire Queen has 'progressed' in her point of view, she might not want to risk damaging it. But then again, she is a jealous type, and jealousy is capable of blinding rational thought…

I find myself pausing for a moment. Why should I be scared of Miura seeing me with the book of all things? I have every right to read it, don't I? And because of the game, I'll have to continue interacting with the both of them. I'm not going to burden myself with walking on eggshells every single time just because they don't like each other. Sooner or later, I'm going to have to tell both of them that they're going to have to swallow that pill.

But that's in the future, for now the wounds are still too fresh between them. That leaves me having to compromise… I suppose I shouldn't read it at school when she's around, but, given how often I find myself being dragged out after classes, I can use the idle moments to read it then.

Well, might as well test out the waters sooner than later.

In the corner of my eye, I caught sight of the newest book Kasumigaoka wanted me to read of hers. I had forgotten that I brought it home after her argument with Miura. I should probably read that after this Metronome series. Her newest work could give me another perspective of her as well.

But that's for another time.

I store the book in my school bag and leave my room, quietly. I really don't want a certain alien girl noticing me and co-

"Hachimaaaan~!"

I stumbled forward as a weight suddenly slammed onto my back, and felt two soft forms press against me as I find lithe arms draped around my neck. I manage to keep from falling on my face by slamming my foot forward, already dreading the scene that was about to develop.

Speak of the Deviluke and she will come, huh? I'm not ready to deal with this…

"…What is it?" I mutter as I straighten myself up. The alien casually continues to hang off of me without a care. I idly note my physical capability at being able to carry Deviluke with little trouble.

"I'm just greeting my lovely prince!" I blink as silence comes when suddenly… "Can't I?"

"You're the only person of royalty in this entire household…" I grumble out, feeling flustered at both her words and proximity.

She lets out a giggle, "But should we get married, then you would also become a noble as my prince-consort, right?"

I sigh, not bothering to get out of her grasp. I know she won't let go, so why even make the attempt? Her strength easily exceeds that of a normal human, and even if I now possess a physically fit body, it doesn't mean I can handle something supernatural.

In any case, Deviluke never gets tired of flirting, huh?

"I'm already noble in spirit, the title would be redundant," I quipped sarcastically. The alien breaks out in giggles again, and places her head on top of my right shoulder before rubbing her cheek against mine. It takes everything within me to not react with anything more than embarrassment and discomfort.

Please stop doing that. Just because I admitted that I cared and I've grown more used to you doesn't mean that it's okay for you to keep breaching my personal space like this, you knooooow?

Although the fact that I'm treating this as more of a bother than an actual offense like before doesn't escape me. Maybe this world is already changing me, and I don't like it…

Much to my relief, Deviluke releases me, but only after swinging herself around and landing before me. I almost applauded her for her athleticism before noting her only wearing a shirt of mine that reached to her upper thighs. Again. Geez… this woman is still keeping it. I know I shouldn't care since the clothes actually belonged to my previous self, but they are basically mine now, and well, that's just embarrassing.

I manage to keep myself focused, my composure steady, and ready to deal will the bold alien girl. When was the last time I had a relaxing morning anyway? Oh right, the last one was before day one in this messed up reality. Figures…

"Hachiman!"

"What?"

"Hachimaaan!"

I raise an eyebrow, slightly startled, "What do you want?"

"I just love saying your name," She winked at me, tilting her head with a disarmingly cute move.

CRITICAL HIT! HACHIMAN IS CONFUSED!

Ack, where's my Full Restore!? I'm on the verge of fainting here! I knew I should have equipped a Sitrus Berry! Where did my yellow flute go!?

I cough into my fist, forcing myself not to blush, "A-ah, is that s-so?"

Damn that voice crack… Kill me already! The one feat I was always proud of, which is my composure, is crumbling under the furious attack of this woman!

"It is," She confirms without any hesitation.

I clear my throat and look at anything but her in a desperate attempt to regain myself. I rubbed the back of my head and declare my retreat, "Uh, well, I have to get going now… Don't want to be late."

"Mou… leaving already? I want to go to Hachiman's school too!" She whines, now she's displaying the very image of a spoiled kid. It suits her somehow, but it's also irritating.

"Can't. Tests are coming up," I mumble, while trying to escape down the stairs.

"But I wanna! You take too much time coming back!" She retorts, leaning towards me at an uncomfortable degree.

"You'll have to wait a few weeks before I can see what I can do," I try to placate her.

"You will, Hachiman? Like, I'll be able to go to school with you?" She asks hopefully.

"That's completely out of the question," Is what I wanted to say…

Yeah, no way that can happen. Miura would kill me if Deviluke was around to flirt shamelessly. She'll have to go somewhere else, maybe Yuuki's school? I don't know, that's barely any better. Still, question is, how do I pull that off without her realizing it in the first place?

"We'll see," I hesitantly offer. I sure hope it didn't sound like a question instead…

She nods her head happily, "Alright! Then I'm heading down to eat! I'm hungry!" Without further warning she places her lips on my cheek.

"Chu~!"

I gawked after her skipping away, my face inflamed from her action, but don't manage to vocalize my displeasure. I then grind my hand against the cheek in question, and will myself to relax. That woman… That's thrice now! How does she keep doing that!?

Whatever, there's no use overthinking it. It's too early…

Adjusting the loose bag over my shoulder, I finally set off down stairs.

"I'm off," I quickly say before exiting my home. I hear four voices wish me well, though a certain one is more coy about it… Geez…

And with that, I finally escape my home.

8-5

My trek to Sobu was uneventful without company, which I was glad for. Yuuki was still getting ready, and I wasn't willing to wait for him. Try not to be late to your own midterms, Short-kun! Before leaving, I did pass by Aikawa's to hand him the books he wanted. He didn't say anything, rather, he looked every bit as traumatized as I expected him to be. He promptly screamed again when I 'innocently' asked what was wrong and slammed the door shut.

It was an amusing event, actually. Even when nearing Sobu's gate, the memory still made me chuckle to myself.

"Hikigaya-senpai!"

I stop in my tracks, recognizing the voice of Sairenji Haruna calling out to me. I release a sigh as interacting with her (or anybody, really) was one of the things I didn't want to do today, but whatever, I might kill some time as it was still really early.

I lazily turn towards her, hands pocketed, "Yo."

She stops right before me and bows respectfully, "Good morning, Hikigaya-senpai."

"Morning," I nod back at her, "You're here early."

"Ah, yeah. I'll be helping Kotegawa-san with some stuff of the disciplinary committee, so she asked me to come a bit earlier," She assumed a thoughtful expression. "Besides, I want one last review over some subjects before the exams start."

Who? Kotegawa… Kotegawa… That name rings a bell. Funnily enough, her name sounds more familiar than… Wait, who am I thinking about? It was something about a Honda, wasn't it? Oh dear, I don't remember Honda-san's actual name at all! I'm so sorry, Honda-san! I'll be sure to relearn your name and never forget it! I swear!

While the gears in my head slowly grinded, I recall my unpleasant confrontation with Sainan's disciplinary committee's head. Oh, right, that Kotegawa girl was the one that seemingly despised my presence in either school's campus. To her, I was a blemish for both school's reputations.

Well, I know a certain Ice Queen who would readily agree with her on that…

"Is that so?" I idly ask the younger girl.

"Yeah… Uhmm…" I narrow my gaze as she seemed hesitant, and I'm certain of what she wanted to speak about. There was only one reason for that reaction, one she had made very clear in the past days. That of course is Yuuki Rito.

"Is this about Yuuki?" I'm not planning on beating around the bush, so I simply decide to get to the point.

Eyes widened, she yelps slightly, cheeks gaining color rapidly. It's so obvious, how could that idiot fail to notice she had a crush on him? Oh right, I keep forgetting he's an idiot. But seriously Sairenji, you should learn a bit of self-control.

"Ah! Y-yes…" She drops her gaze in embarrassment, "He left school so quickly last Saturday, I was wondering if something happened to him…"

Last Saturday? Oh, right, the small get-together to say our goodbyes to Yukihira as he had to return to his cooking academy in Tokyo. Hard to believe that happened only hours before the 'Gasai Incident.' If I remember right, Yuuki was actually helping out at the restaurant when I arrived. I guess he was there after school ended.

Then again, I also recall his story of running away from Sairenji after only greeting her. I wouldn't be surprised if he ran to Yukihira's immediately after that.

"Our group had a gathering after classes at Yukihira's," I responded casually, my eyes catching the sight of a certain Ice Queen's method of transportation. Not that I'd ever forget it, even if this one didn't hit me.

I can't help tensing slightly once Yukinoshita exits the vehicle. While I unintentionally kept my gaze on her, Sairenji follows my line of sight. My eyes meet the now unfamiliar stranger's for a single second before she walks into the school grounds. I could feel the contempt behind her short stare, and I had to suppress the urge to shudder at it.

Ever the cold hearted mistress, eh?

"Yukinoshita-senpai is so beautiful…" I blink at Sairenji's unexpected comment.

I would agree with her, because that's something that can't be denied, but when I remember her warmer expressions back in my world and compared them to the current one's… Then, no, I can't say I find this Yukinoshita as beautiful. It wouldn't be right.

"Do you know her?" I ask offhandedly, returning my thoughts back to reality.

"Not in person. She's rather known around here regardless."

Looks like this Yukinoshita shares my version's popularity, I guess it should come as no surprise. They must hold their similarities, like their visibly flat chests. It's the inevitable differences that intimidate me…

"Right. Well, everything is fine with Yuuki, but maybe you should try asking him yourself."

She adverts her eyes, "I-I don't have the confidence to do it…"

I grunted in agreement, remembering how panicked, yet happy she sounded after she told me about Yuuki greeting her. It was a two-way street between their shyness and idiocy.

"Well, you can give it some time. Eventually you might be able to," I offer, what I hope is encouragement. I'm not an expert on this, so I say things I got off light novels and manga. And if she doesn't, let's hope that idiot does. Being stuck in the middle of their idiotic circumstances is really cringe-inducing. I don't want constant reminders of the stupid side of youth.

"Yeah…" Sairenji shakes her head, "A-anyway, I should get going."

"Sure," I nod at her.

She bows to me, "Have a good day, Hikigaya-senpai."

"Yeah," I respond before she spins around and heads towards Sainan High's perimeter, in a very ladylike manner. Well, I admit that had its charm.

I turn away, gazing at Sobu's entrance. I felt a bit reluctant, as the fact that I'd probably meet a certain senpai left me with an anxious feeling. Not directly caused by her, of course. But the aspect of interacting with someone I feel nothing for in general. It's an odd thing to describe, I can barely make sense of it myself.

I can recall whatever emotions she brought out of me in the days before Sunday, but she does nothing for me now. In fact, any current thoughts of her essentially kill whatever feelings I held at that same moment. Like earlier this morning, and, well, right now…

I believe that is what keeps me from thinking back on any memories of her in my world. I'm too scared to find out whether this affliction affects that Shiromeguri as well.

On the other hand, Miura is the other problem, since her cuteness has risen to dangerous levels, I'll probably die of a heart attack long before I get killed by some supernatural being. Suddenly, my train of thought is broken by the sound of a roaring engine nearing.

I look over my shoulder, spotting a blonde man arriving on a motorcycle, not stopping at all as he headed into the bicycle parklot within the school grounds. Every student in his way had to jump away to avoid getting run over as he simply shouted.

"Get out of the way, kiddos! Can't you see I'm trying to arrive early! Dumb kids!"

What the heck is with that guy? Who is he anyway? And why the hell is he heading into Sobu!?

For some reason, I can't ignore his presence. Maybe I'm getting a bit paranoid, considering my past experiences, but why would a motorcyclist even come to my school? Could it be that he's just delivering something to someone? His bike doesn't have a storage unit though…

I raise an eyebrow as the man leaves his motorcycle supported on the other parked bicycles, not caring if the owners would have it difficult to get them. I quietly observe him while avoiding to call his attention, and I succeeded since I engaged one of my Hachiman skills, Stealth Hikki.

It may have been losing its potency lately, but it was perfect in this situation. Even if it was early, there were enough people to draw away what little attention I generally gathered. Although, in this new Sobu, students might be actively avoiding me this time because of my bad reputation.

This man wore a white business suit from what I could see from here. He had short, blond hair, an unusual color to see in someone with that kind of outfit. Whatever, I decide to just walk inside, knowing that with my current luck, I could end up involved with that troublesome individual.

Finally inside, I head to my locker only to find many letters that contained anything but confessions. Well, they were confessions, just that the emotions that were displayed were less deceitful and filled with much more ill intent. It would wound my fragile heart if I were to read them.

Hah~! It only speaks of my strength that I'm able to toss them into the trash without hesitation!

It's a bit early, but I guess I'll head to class and do nothing, best course of plan I can think of. Hopefully Miura isn't there, my heart wouldn't be able to take her deceptive cuteness so early in the day. Not that I could handle it at any other point of the day either…

"Hey, did you hear?" I idly hear a voice from the opposite end of the hall, "Class 2-F's homeroom teacher was in an accident."

I immediately perk up and zeroed my gaze on two students gossiping about Hiratsuka-sensei. An… accident?

"No way, really!?"

"Totally! I heard Sensei talk about it when I passed by the teacher's lounge. They say it was a car accident, she got hit by a reckless driver."

I feel my heartbeat accelerate at the thought of my respected teacher being hurt. Please, let her be alright…

"Whoa… Is she okay?"

"I dunno, just that she was hospitalized… I left before they caught me listenin' in."

Hospital? Hiratsuka-sensei's in the hospital? That… can't be, right? She's okay… isn't she? She has to be.

Before I knew it, I slammed my locker shut, which as expected, startled the duo. I couldn't care any less, as I began storming to the teacher's lounge to find answers of my own.

"H-hey… Isn't that the Hikigaya guy? What's with him?"

"Leave him alone, he looks pissed."

I ignore their words as I continue my trek to find out more about Hiratsuka-sensei's health.

She couldn't be hurt, she was always a good driver even if she tended to speed. It couldn't be that she's in the hospital because of a reckless idiot crashing into her. She was fine. She probably got rattled by it and is only in the hospital because the paramedics were overly paranoid.

Afterwards, she'll pathetically try and capture the attention of an available doctor, find out he's taken and get drunk at home. Then she'll be back in homeroom the next day pissed off about it and take it out on me.

"You've never spoken a word to me before, and now it's been twice today."

My recollection of her words from exactly a week ago stopped me in my tracks right when I was a few paces from reaching my intended goal.

That's right… There was no association between this Hiratsuka-sensei and I. Meaning, that not only do I have no business in inquiring about her well-being, but doing so would be seen as uncharacteristic given my social status. And meddling with that anymore than I already have is too risky to do, especially if rumors start spreading about me being a potential cause because of my sudden interest. Students are that stupid… verily so.

But this left me in a tortuous spot. My mentorship with that woman and all the help she provided me was important to me. This Hiratsuka-sensei wasn't the one I knew, but, same as with Miura and formerly Shiromeguri, I clung to our past familiarities. But this time, I couldn't do anything, I wasn't allowed to.

It's the same reason I have yet to even attempt to apologize to the current Yuigahama even when I wanted to, the role I'm stuck in prevents me from doing so. Although, I do admit that there are underlying reasons as well.

I stood before the teacher's office for a minute or two, and ultimately decided to stop myself from continuing. I can't do it, I want to, but I can't, the teachers would probably find my presence unwelcomed anyway. I can only hope she gets better.

I tread across the corridor, my current destination, my classroom.

On my way, I notice by the left side of the corridor some seats occupied by several men and women dressed formally. As I move, the door at the side of the first seat calls my attention, as it showed a name, which said the following.

Vice Principal, Uchiyamada Hiroshi.

Wait, who? That's a new name. I wasn't particularly savvy when it concerned the faculty outside of those who taught my classes, but I'm fairly sure that wasn't the name of Sobu's Vice Principal. Like with everything else, I chalk this up to another change in this differing world.

I wonder if this has anything to do with what happened with Hiratsuka-sensei?

Whatever the case, I should just head to class.

8-6

I quickly saw the advantage of arriving early to the classroom.

Very few people were around, either because they arrived later or they preferred another location to waste away their pathetic youth. Whichever it was, it left 2-F relatively peaceful. Although that didn't last once we neared thirty minutes before the late bell rang. That's when a good portion of the students began to pour in with their loud conversations and general noise.

Said loudness was immediately quelled once word began to spread about Hiratsuka-sensei's accident. This of course led to rumor mongering within the groups. None of which were tasteful for my respected sensei.

Really, just hearing their stupid slander towards her seriously pissed me off. You bastards don't know that woman, stop coming up with pathetic stories with no foundation to base them off of. How pathetic are you that you get your rocks off smearing Hiratsuka-sensei's reputation?

Ugh… Now I'm regretting coming at all…

The positive side to my punctuality was that everyone steered clear away from me, granted, that would have happened anyway. Here, people avoid me like the plague, while before people ignored me as if I didn't exist. While similar, the situations were still different. The former implies that they acknowledged my presence in the first place.

Another good thing was that Miura hadn't arrived early, sparing me from her explosive cuteness and allowing me to prepare my defenses for the inevitable attacks. Seriously, every woman in this world is terrifying with how alluring they can be. No man would be able to survive the way I have.

For the twenty odd minutes I had in peace, I started reading the first volume of Metronome in Love.

It was a fairly enjoyable, I admit. I didn't get too far into it with the limited time I had, but I was able to read the introductory chapter. I was surprised at the subtleties here and there with the female lead's characterization, really, if I hadn't read over it closely I might have gotten lost. I'll give Kasumigaoka credit where it's due when it came to the aforementioned subtlety, but it comes off as very pretentious as if she were trying to seem clever with her writing. You shouldn't do such things in the introductory chapter though, it'd be more appropriate to sprinkle it throughout the volume instead in order for the audience to be able to consume it more easily. Especially with a Light Novel. As high quality as they can be, they are still casual reads, people don't want to be tasked with an uphill battle with these stories.

I guess it might come off that way because she was trying to impress the audience with her first book?

Well, that's not to say I don't find it a good read. Kasumigaoka's writing style in general is very impressive, and she did well in making the female lead, Sakuya-chan, seem sympathetic. Her human characteristics have been well rounded, flaws and strengths included. It's probably the thing that impressed me the most.

However, the same could not be said of the male lead, unfortunately. If one wasn't paying attention, Naoto-kun seems to be almost as good as Sakuya-chan, but I noticed a show of weakness in Kasumigaoka's ability. She tried to mask it with her impressive writing style, making him say a lot of seemingly good things but still following the archetype for males of this genre. Naoto-kun is the one attracted to Sakuya-chan, and even if the author tried to avoid giving him an idealistic and clichéd infatuation, it was noticeable enough for me.

I gave her the benefit of the doubt seeing how she was a starting author. Plus, she is a teenager in high school, how can she be asked to accurately portray the disturbed mindset of an idiotic teenage male? That'd be unfair.

Still, it's a really good read, Sakuya-chan's story was interesting. I almost wanted to keep going, but that's when the other students started pouring in. And so I reluctantly bookmarked my page and listened in on the gossip after putting the novel away.

Turns out, Hiratsuka-sensei suffered a minor concussion, and a fractured left leg and right wrist. Apparently they're bad enough that she'll be out for around six or seven weeks, nine at the most. While it's upsetting to hear about her injuries, the fact that she'll be able to recover is good enough for me.

It seems the school will be hiring a temporary teacher to replace Hiratsuka-sensei until she recovers completely, which is the reason why there were so many people waiting by the vice principal's office. They are apparently holding the interviews there to select the substitute.

Well, I guess that means we'll have a stand-in for homeroom this morning.

"Hikio!" That's when a flash of blonde hair consumes my vision. It doesn't take a genius to figure out who this new arrival was.

Huh? What? Wait! Why are you leaning so close to me!? Do both you and Deviluke lack spatial awareness!?

She wasn't making contact with me, but it was just a step before that intimacy. Still, I reflexively back up in order to look at her properly.

"Yo," I greet lamely.

She blinks, as if momentarily taken aback by my particular way of greeting her, but then giggles to herself, "Yo…" She responds with a tilt of her head. Too freaking cute!

If I were like a shonen protagonist, this would be the moment I spurted out a nosebleed! Scary, Miura-tan! You're scary!

Luckily, I'm not one of those protagonists so I'm able to barely escape with a small flush that I immediately force back. My prepared defenses only just held out…

"Did you just get here?" I ask stupidly, scratching the back of my head. She caught the idle attention of the majority of the class by interacting with me. And if I wasn't imagining things, I could swear Hayama was sending me a stink eye.

"Totally did, Hikio! I'm, like, surprised to see you here so early," She sits on the desk at my left and pulls it close to mine. "So, how was your weekend?" She averts her gaze aside, fixing a lock of hair behind her ear, "Did you… like… miss me?"

Woman, you're going to kill me at this rate… Please, show mercy.

"Er," I cough out, "It was fine, a few things happened."

She blinks then, sporting curiosity, "Like what?"

I recall my outing with Takao and Tendou Karen, the get-together at Yukihira's, the Gasai Incident, my date-not-date with Suou Mikoto, and the intervention with the almost-as-cute-as-Komachi Yuuki Mikan, that scary Takanashi Touka woman, and the dagashi obsessed Shidare Hotaru. Plus there was the relationship building with both Deviluke and Belldandy as well… Boy, I had an eventful weekend, didn't I?

So that's six out of seven things that I can't tell her without risking death or other inconveniences.

"Ah, well," I start, "Yukihira left for Tokyo so we had a small get-together between our group."

That one is safe enough, right?

"Yukihira-kun left?" She pouts at that, "Why didn't you tell me? I could have…" Her voice fades, a disappointed expression appearing, "I guess that's too late. I'll miss his food… like, a lot."

"Weren't you busy after class?" I raise an eyebrow at her.

Her pout deepens, "I-I know… but still… Hikio is a total meanie…"

I flawlessly evade the damage from her pout, "The invitations weren't up to me. The others planned it on their own."

I wisely make no mention of the fact that I did technically 'invite' Takao, Tendou and Belldandy.

"Like, I guess…" She shrugs her shoulders, as her attention was drawn to a sliding door being opened, "Fuyutsuki-sensei is here already?"

I raise an eyebrow as I followed her gaze, ultimately leading to a new presence inside the class, an unfamiliar face to me. A woman with dark-brown hair that reached her shoulders, matching eyes stood by the teacher's desk. She sported a casual outfit composed of a white blouse and a long, gray skirt.

A bespectacled boy from the class waved at her, "Fuyutsuki-sensei? Are you here to cover for Hiratsuka-sensei?"

The woman addressed as Fuyutsuki-sensei nods her head, "Only for today. A new teacher will be assigned for your homeroom from tomorrow on."

"Fuyutsuki-sensei is cool! You can stay here all the time you want, Sensei!" Another boy said in a joking manner, making her laugh.

"I'm sure the new teacher will be as cool," She smiles before turning her attention to the book she brought with herself.

I find myself silently glaring at the loud students. I don't recall this class being so rowdy… Quiet, the lot of you. You're being disrespectful to our actual homeroom teacher.

Anyway, I'm certain that this woman wasn't a teacher in Sobu back in my world, so it must be another new element. She seems to be a decent person, but I don't have much to go on to say it with confidence. Besides, I don't really have a reason to care. I'm not planning to act out even if it's expected of me.

"In any case, I'll take care of you for today. Hope you don't mind me."

Tobe, who was already in class, sends her a thumbs up, "We don't, Sensei! Let's just hope that Hiratsuka-sensei gets better!"

And so, the woman started to talk with some of the students while…

"Oh, you heard? Hiratsuka-sensei, like, had an accident," Miura explained, and I nod. "Too bad. I hope she gets better, y'know?"

I grunt back in agreement. I'd like that too, Miura. I lean my head onto my hand and continue to listen on as it seems she's about to continue.

"I wonder how, like, the new teacher will be. I saw a lotsa people waiting to be interviewed," She comments while opening her bag, "You know, I actually liked Hiratsuka-sensei, despite her, y'know, whining about not having a husband at her age. Super depressing really…"

Her gaze drops as she falls silent, as if she somehow realized an unpleasant future for herself, which isn't hard to imagine. I don't think Miura would ever have any problem getting a partner at Hiratsuka-sensei's age, I mean, she can be scary and all, but as I have learnt during these days, Miura-tan is too darn cute.

Her biggest problem at the moment is having eyes for my bastard previous self, and in turn, me.

A sound attracts our attention, Miura turning on point towards the sliding door once more, and I blink in surprise as the man I saw parking his motorbike had just entered the class. Right then and there I knew this was going to be yet another eventful day.

I know it seemed a pessimistic drabble with no basis to it, but just call it a hunch.

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 08 Section: Song 03

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Now that he was this close, I could notice some things I failed to see earlier. He wore a blue shirt and a red tie underneath his white suit, and it was worth noting was that he was tall and that his ears were pierced. Is this guy a yakuza!? Hold on a minute, did he actually dye his hair? At his age? Oi, that just makes you look like you're going trying to extend your youth into your adult days.

"Mmm? Is this the office of the vice principal?" The man asked aloud as he looked around.

Wait… don't tell me this guy's here for the substitute job…?

Oh, perfect. Now there's an adult delinquent and vehicular maniac that I might have to deal with in Sobu. Who am I kidding? Of course I'll have to… This world wouldn't give me the satisfaction of a peaceful school life.

Ebina, who I had just notice in the class as was closest to the door responded, "Eh? This isn't…"

The man scratched the back of his head and started laughing awkwardly, "Yeah… suspected as much, seeing kids everywhere…" He turned to Miura all of a sudden, "Whoa!"

"Eh?" I narrow my gaze as Miura blinks in surprise at his sudden focus.

The man shakes his head from an apparent stupor when the teacher called Fuyutsuki-sensei leans out of the group of students surrounding her. Their gazes meet and once more this dyed-blonde man stares at her, his face contorting into a very unpleasant expression for a second. What the heck was that?

"Oh, are you by any chance here to postulate for the vacant teacher's position?" She says, walking to him.

The man quickly comes to his apparent senses and responds, "Oh, yeah! I sorta got lost on the way, haha."

And as they engage in a conversation, I hear Miura mutter, "That was creepy…"

"You okay?" I ask earnestly, no doubt that sort of attention can be off-putting for some. I know I wouldn't like it.

She looks at me and smiles warmly, "Only because you ask me, yeah, I'm okay now, hehe."

"Y-yeah," I avert my gaze and scratch my cheek, desperately trying not to redden. Geh… Talking to Miura-tan is daunting in more ways than one. How the hell was Hayama able to handle her when she was like this in my world?

"Say… since exams are coming up next week…" And she starts fidgeting, which is too cute! My heart… "Maybe… m-maybe you'd like to, you know…? Study together…? I-I mean, it totally doesn't have to be t-today!" Her voice fades, her cheeks so red it was so embarrassing to look at her… "Maybe, like… tomorrow?"

You know, it's completely amazing just how adorable Miura is when it comes to the person she likes. I'm not sure if she's aware of it, or if she's actually sly and trying to ensnare my poor heart with such machinations, but it's almost too much for my poor organ. I'm hanging on a thread here…

If I were weaker, I would have been wrapped around her finger without a fight, meanwhile she's in the same spot when it comes to me. Then we'd be this tangled mess of extremities, unsure of what we're doing.

Oh great. I'm babbling in my own thoughts now…

Almost every girl I've interacted with in this world have their moments where I find them cute, but Miura is almost in a league of her own! Second only to Komachi, the Miura Yumiko in this world might be the cutest girl that I've ever interacted with. If I didn't have good control of myself, I would have immediately devoted my life to her.

Oh dear, what the heck am I saying now!? Get a grip on yourself, Hachiman!

I took a deep breath to forcibly relax myself. I knew I could let my thoughts stray to a certain somebody's but I didn't want to abuse that new 'skill' I picked up. Plus, even from the outside, I'm aware of how cruel of an act that might be. Though the real battle is against not caring how cruel it seemed.

Thinking about her request, I weigh the pros and cons. On the plus side, this will help me get closer to Miura and that much closer to eliminating her as Deus Ex's creation. I don't want her to be the one, she doesn't deserve it. On the negatives, I'm going to be exposing myself to her allure when we're on our own. I don't think I'm prepared for that…

Argh, but I have to be. For the game. The damn, stupid game!

Remember Hachiman, what she feels is not meant for you… What she feels isn't for you… Allowing yourself to be bewitched by that woman is no better than assuming you're the one she likes. Are you that much of a piece of trash to do that to her? Give her more hope when there's none to be had just because you can't control your overactive mind?

Suddenly, I feel a lot more miserable. But at least I composed myself. This is a good opportunity for yourself, take it.

"That sou-"

"Miura-san," My words were cut short when Fuyutsuki-sensei spoke aloud, earning our attention, "Would you mind taking Onizuka-kun to the vice principal's office?"

I blink, and when I look at Miura, she's doing just the same. The man that was addressed as Onizuka-san sent Miura a thumbs up, "Sorry for taking your time."

"Hah!?" She stands up and obviously, states her protest, "Wait, why do I have to do it!?"

I notice Ebina laughing to herself in a very creepy manner behind them. So this is her doing. I wonder… what was her intent? Surely she noticed Miura's discomfort earlier.

"Ebina-san said you knew where the office was located, since you were there with Shiromeguri-san on Saturday?" Fuyutsuki-sensei started, glancing between her and the bespectacled girl.

"Well," Ebina adjusted her glasses, "Kyōtō-sensei's office was relocated just a few days ago, right? It's kind of hard for a lot of students to find it now."

Could a school really do that? Relocate an important faculty's office on whim? And what reason did they have to move it anyway? These changes to Sobu are really odd. And here I thought it would only revolve around the students…

Miura glared at her, but it caused no reaction.

Onizuka-san scratched the back of his head again, "Sorry for the inconvenience, haha…"

It was obvious that Miura didn't want to go, but seeing how she was noted as to being privy to the where to find the office, she'll be pressured to concede on the matter. I note the heavy reluctance on her face when she looked at the man, and made my call… No one else was willing to do it, so I might as well take the bullet instead.

"But…"

"I'll do it. I passed by it before coming to class," I state flatly, rising from my seat as I pocket my hands. Murmurs immediately erupted at my sudden volunteering. No doubt in my previous world there'd be someone asking who I was instead.

"Ah, Hikigaya-kun, thank you. I'd do so myself but I need to prepare the first class since I was just told to cover Hiratsuka today."

I nodded my head courteously and offer Miura a reassuring one, which she responds with a frown and a pout. Hey now, I'm doing this for you, Miura-tan. Dear me, I think she's mad now because I'm going in her stead. You'd think this would be a moment where someone was grateful for another's self-sacrifice.

Well, I can't always make her happy, I guess. I have to point out that I'm not trying to, but it seems to happen often somehow. However, it seems a certain man isn't looking happy in the slightest either. What the heck is with that over exaggeratedly displeased face? It's not like I want to be around you either, I just dislike the idea of Miura escorting you more.

I keep my face from displaying my distaste for the man, only allowing a small twitch of my eyebrow at best. I give the man a small bow, deep enough to still appear courteous, but shallow enough to showcase that there was no actual respect for him. A small trick I came up with a few years ago. I call it Hachiman Skill: Civil-Disrespectful Hikki.

"Then Onizuka-kun, Hikigaya-kun will lead you to the vice principal's office," Fuyutsuki smiled, "Please follow him."

His unpleasant expression was gone when the woman addressed him, yet his tone still leaked disappointment, "…Will do."

Huh, so you did want Miura to be your guide?

Whatever, I pay his dismay no mind before walking past them both and out of the class, nodding to Fuyutsuki-sensei on my way out. I expect that man to follow me since it has been established that I would lead him. Now it's his call.

After I exit class, the distinctive sounds of footsteps echo across the corridor, mine as well as his. Few students were around, and those few were quick to leave once they caught sight of us both. Geh, I suppose looking at the guy with bad reputation together with a man with traits of a gang member can be terrifying. I would certainly do the same as them if I were in their shoes.

I choose to not look back and simply head towards our destination.

"Hey kid, you really know where we're going?" I hear his voice coming from behind.

"I do, sir," I respond politely. Not having a good impression doesn't mean I'm going to blatantly disrespect an adult, let alone my potential substitute. As much as I'd love to believe his appearance would automatically disqualify him from being hired, I have to recall that there's always a chance for something odd occurring. Let me just put my trust in the wisdom of the Sobu hierarchy, surely they would know hiring this suspicious fellow could damage the private school's reputation more than I have.

We then continued to walk in silence.

"Whoa!" I'm startled when Onizuka-san exclaims out of nowhere, causing me to stop momentarily. I look at him over my shoulder, only to see him staring at some girl that happened to have a large bust, and the worst was that he did nothing to dissimulate his perverted face.

While he's facing away, I can't help but sneer a bit. At least have some shame about openly leering at the students, aren't you supposed to be an adult?

I cooled my features before he noticed my judgemental stare. It doesn't particularly matter to me, if this guy wants to get turned down for being inappropriate towards the female student body, that's his problem. One less troublesome person I have to deal with on campus.

The fact that my eyes momentarily lingered on the poor girl's chest was pure circumstance, honest.

"Gosh, lively gals, short skirts and great bodies…" I raise an eyebrow at the new comment, "Heh, it seems I've come to the right place, hehehe. Wouldn't you agree, kiddo?"

"I don't particularly…" I was confused at what he was referring to, what was he looking at? Was someone breaking the dress code or something? And here I thought Tobe would have been the only one. Well, there was also that Kawa-something girl too.

When I follow the perverted adult's gaze, it's on a seemingly regular girl. First-year, I think. Luckily she didn't notice our stares, but I only kept an eyebrow cocked. Was I missing something? I didn't see the problem.

I'm not sure how to describe what happens next, but I think it can be compared to a blind person regaining their sight. What was once not there suddenly appeared, as if by magic.

Short! They're short!

How did I fail to realize how short the skirts were for the girls' uniforms!? I've been here for two years and I didn't notice until now!? Was this really okay, weren't the girls embarrassed? How could the school get away with it and suffer no repercussions!?

Oi, oi! Doesn't that mean Komachi will have to wear that too!? No way! I forbid it!

I broke my gaze immediately upon my unfortunate discovery. This guy is already becoming a bad influence on me, and I've known him for less than five minutes! Stop corrupting my purity!

The man chuckles as if noticing my sudden realization, "Heh, don't tell me you just… hahaha! What a funny lad!" He approached me and patted my back all of a sudden, making me stumble forward. "What's your name?"

Wincing at his unexpected force, I answer, "Uh, Hikigaya Hachiman, sir."

He extends a hand at me, "Heh, I'm Onizuka Eikichi, 22 years old. I'm aiming to be the greatest teacher in the world. Nice to meet you."

I had to keep myself from looking at him cynically. For someone who has such dreams, you sure are failing at trying to reach them. The best teacher in the world wouldn't blatantly ogle his underage female students, you knooooow? Though being the best teacher in prison could be a goal you can actually achieve. I'd support you if that were your dream!

I make sure to keep my thoughts from being displayed to the older man and momentarily stare at his proffered hand. It wasn't something I expected, nor really used to receiving. But, I still give him a deferential nod and take his hand.

"Well, I gotta admit it was a let down that your blonde friend wasn't the one to take me to the office, hahaha!" He laughed, pocketing a hand, the other still holding a folder, "But you seem to be a good guy, despite those funny eyes, hahaha!"

I don't comment but I frown at his unnecessary jibe, are you truly serious about becoming the best teacher? You just made fun of my poor eyes to my face… I let it go though, my eyes are the first things everyone points out. Maybe Mikan and Komachi complimenting them was an omen for future ridicule?

Still, his first point sort of bothered me. He sort of admitted his preference for Miura instead of myself, something that would be natural anyway, but he had underlying intent. Seeing how he gazed at the other girls earlier, no doubt Miura would be subjected to the same thing unable to say anything about it without suffering consequences because he was an adult abusing his status. Yeah, I made a good choice. Even the Fire Queen would be at a loss here.

Oi, and stop assuming our relationship. If you call her my friend, I may just believe you.

"…" I remain silent. Like always, I don't know how people expect me to respond to my eyes being picked on.

He patted my back again, "Hikigaya, don't want to be the last for the interview. Let's go."

Great, another toucher… I don't voice my displeasure at his over familiarity and nod at him again as I restart our trek in silence.

Nothing eventful happens until all of a sudden, a girl coming from a class at the left almost bumps into me. I don't know if it was my new discovered reflexes, but I swerved to avoid her in time, and in doing so, she bumped into the man behind me instead.

"Oh, s-sorry! I didn't mean to!" I remain facing forward as the girl's voice came from behind. "Oopsie! Oh! You're a new face!"

I chose not to turn back and take some steps forward to continue on when Onizuka-san's voice is heard, "Eh!? Ah, haha! It's no problem! Hahaha! And yeah, I guess I am a new face around here, hahaha!"

Alright, this guy is unexpectedly laughing out of nervousness, it's too easy to tell. What the heck is with his sudden shyness? Whatever is happening now, I should refrain from participating, since the girl doesn't seem to notice me for some reason, and considering my reputation…

Although… she almost crashed into me, yet it seems she had apparently obviated my presence. While it's for the best, can't say I'm happy about her being so transparent about it…

But it's a good thing at the end of the day. Without me being directly interacted with at all, the girl was able to escape being dragged into the game, right? Deus Ex clearly mentioned how every person I interact with will be important in some way. That must also extend to the creation, right?

Wait… But then where does that leave this poor excuse for a teacher?

"Teehee! Welp, see ya then, new face!" I blink as the girl says that out cheerfully before the sound of hurried steps follow. Silence comes then, and I finally decide to turn around, noticing that he was crying… but of happiness?

How the heck did this man come to the conclusion that he wanted to be a teacher? Seriously, Onizuka Eikichi-san is definitely not instructor material… but well, that's my opinion. Maybe he's super intelligent or something and actually possess teaching skills.

"This is like a dream…"

Considering your goal in life, it seems that not only are your dreams unattainable but pathetic as well. Yikes, that sounded bad, even to me.

"Are you alright?" I finally voice out, asking an unnecessary question in order to check off the socially acceptable cues asked of me. So troublesome.

"I couldn't be better. I feel so alive right now," He said while making a fist, his face showing bliss. He shakes his head then, "Anyway, let's not get distracted ourselves, right? Lead the way, Hikigaya."

"Yes, sir," I respond simply and begin to walk again.

And after some minutes, we finally arrived. There were still two people waiting by the seats. I faced him once more and gestured at the door where his objective was, "Uchiyamada's office is inside that room, Onizuka-san."

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Go to profile, SEE: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 08 Section: Picture 03

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"Yosh! Thanks for the help," He grins confidently, "Wish me luck, Hikigaya!"

I don't want to, but I compromise by sending him another polite nod. I'm feeling more paranoid at Deus Ex's words about meeting important people. Surely that means I'll see this guy again, right? That doesn't mean he'll get the job for sure now, right? …Right!?

"…You're welcome, sir," I say instead. Polite enough to ignore the fact that I avoided wishing him well entirely. Aside from the fact that I don't want him as my homeroom teacher, that particular social skill is much too high for my current level. At this point, I can only do that with people I'm familiar with. Doing it with a stranger will only be awkward for us both.

He nods at me and sits by the waiting line. I turn around and decide to just head back to class. I take my time to embrace my solitude, I still had a good six minutes before the final bell rang. It was still somewhat noisy with the occasional group of students taking every second to hang out before classes started. But it wasn't bad enough to penetrate my thoughts.

"…you will be late to your class."

"Don't worry about it! We totes have time to talk some more!"

Although overhearing those particular voices, one in protest, the other excitable, both familiar, froze me in my tracks right as I was rounding the next corner. It was the two girls I was close to back in my world, the two girls that were important to me… The two girls who hated me in this reality. And the two girls I really did not want to see at this point in time.

"A-are you sure?" Stutters the one I know as Yukinoshita Yukino.

"Of course, hehe!" Responds the one I also knew as Yuigahama Yui.

Before I realized it, I practically slammed myself against the wall as if I were in a stealth game and trying to avoid detection of an incoming hostile. What the hell am I doing? I just look suspicious. I relax my tense body and pretend to act as if I was just idly leaning against the wall. I engage in Stealth Hikki as well, to keep others from noticing me. Curiosity has me continue listening in for a short moment.

"Have you figured out how we're gonna help Iroha-chan?" Asks the energetic voice of the two, and I clearly know who it belongs to. "I'm still super lost at what to do, you know?"

The calm voice responds as I expected, "Well… It is too soon to decide on the best course of action. Shiromeguri-senpai still needs to bring us the list of possible participants for the elections."

I recall Miura's message of complaint concerning the elections from a few days ago. So just like in my world, there really was an issue with no one running for presidency, huh? Small world, uh, universe, er… reality?

Forget it.

"Ah, right! It's too bad that someone basically forced Iroha-chan to participate in the elections, don't you think?"

So that happened here too, huh?

"Yes, it is unfortunate as that also leaves the only candidate as Isshiki-san," I can picture the Ice Queen pinching the bridge of her nose in frustration saying that. "No other student seems interested enough to do so. Even Hayato-kun has failed to find someone suitable enough, not to mention, willing to run."

"Waah… No way…" I distinctly hear Yuigahama say as her voice fades away. That must mean they're leaving.

I pull away from the wall and stand upright, thinking about what I listened in on. Ack, Suou was right, I did have a knack for eavesdropping…

I shake the thought away. So this Sobu's Service Club also has to help out Isshiki's predicament. And unlike how it happened with the club I was in, there was no tense and suffocating atmosphere after the Kyoto Trip. In fact, they were called in to help out before the trip even took place. Although subtle, the differences were there. They had plenty of time to help out the Student Council before the deadline arrived.

And who knows? Maybe Yukinoshita can successfully become Student Council President like she wanted without me there to screw that up for her?

They look to be good enough friends without me. And without her being split apart by her clique and Yukinoshita, Yuigahama is no doubt closer to the Ice Queen and will fully support her in this world. If I'm to be honest, I'm very curious to see how this will turn out, even if it doesn't concern me anymore. Although it is still a bitter pill to swallow.

Well, I suppose time will tell.

I peek from the corner to make sure those two were gone, I didn't want to take the risk of running into them. Once the coast was clear, I resume my way back to class.

8-7

Lunch time.

Well, I knew I couldn't avoid it no matter what… Meeting my senpai that I could no longer care for. I sure hope my new lack of consideration of Shiromeguri isn't noticeable. Ugh… I have no idea how I'm going to handle this.

As I wracked my head wondering what I could do, I failed to notice Miura coming up to me until her sudden voice jolted me from my thoughts.

Miura was standing at my side, beaming, "Hikio, ready to head to…" Her cheeks gain color as she struggles to continue, "T-to our spot?"

Ack, stop making it sound like our rendezvous point or something… It's not like it was only us two.

"Uh, yeah," I utter back. Looks like my earlier reminder of Shiromeguri's situation helped with handling her much better. I'm not a flustered mess at her bashfulness this time.

"Let me get Meguri and I'll see you there, 'kay?"

I nod at her, "Sure."

She shoots me a disarming smile before happily skipping out of the class. My embarrassment came back again, but I fought the urge to let it show on my face. This girl keeps and keeps being too damn cute… my heart can't get a rest!

It's not for you… It's not for you… It's not for you, dammit!

I practically chant this mantra in order to figuratively drench myself with the cold water that is reality. You're already low by giving Miura hope for a positive answer to her confession, stop adding onto it…

I sigh to myself, feeling miserable again but at least I deserved it.

Standing up from my seat, I easily ignore the occasional glare sent my way, not particularly caring about the reason behind them. It was most likely because of Miura's continued presence around me anyway. I look up to see Hayama and Yuigahama rushing to leave the classroom as well, no doubt to meet with Yukinoshita about the election problems especially with clubs being temporarily halted with the exams coming next week. Well, it has nothing to do with me, but that thought bothers me instead of serving as a reassurance that I didn't have to deal with that issue. I glumly know why.

With another sigh, I leave my desk and head to my usual hangout.

I hear gossip along the way about the possible substitute teacher and I have to wonder if that guy. Onizuka-san, made it. Probably not, but well, I suppose I will know that eventually.

After some minutes, I reach my destination, the safe haven that had been taken from me just recently, the tennis courts, and… I blink, and then narrow my gaze. There was an unwanted presence…

Why the heck is that man here!?

Onizuka-san was sat by the stairs, and smoking… here on campus… Great… On top of his list of wonderful traits, that doesn't help him, being a smoker that is… What is it with smoking teachers in this school?

I held no desire to interact with him more than I already have, the tennis courts will no doubt have him drooling about the female players as well. I was already uncomfortable enough to engage in the rumored 'guy talk' with people my age, doing it with someone five years my senior is too much to ask for. His back was to me, maybe I can get away before he notices me…

I tried to be careful in making my withdrawal. I'll have to come up with an excuse about the tennis club being there or something to keep Miura from coming with Shiromeguri.

I was pretty close to the doorway that led to exit in the back of him since I didn't notice Onizuka-san's presence until I was twenty paces away. I should probably look into upgrading my Hikki Sensors as well.

And in the very moment I attempted to step back, he turned to me slowly, acknowledging my presence. I raise an eyebrow in slight surprise as the guy looked pale and sported a depressed expression. So… it went bad, huh…?

It wasn't entirely unexpected if I'm to be honest, and besides, we're talking about Sobu's higher standards. While there may be differences in this world, I doubt Sobu changed its expectations for both students and faculty.

"Oh, Hikigaya. Didn't see you there," Onizuka-san said monotonously, turning to face the court again, "Things didn't go that well."

"Oh, uh, sorry," I dumbly respond, not knowing what else to say.

The blonde man sighed, dropping his head, "I guess I had bad luck. How come that bastard turned out to be the vice principal of this school?"

"Uh, you know the vice principal?" I asked slowly, trying to follow the conversation I was suddenly dragged into.

Onizuka-san puts out the cigar on the ground and stands to his feet, "It doesn't really matter now. I suppose it can't be helped." He turns to me, "Hikigaya, where's the cafeteria anyway? Somehow I ended up here while I was looking for it."

Seriously? The cafeteria was on the opposite side of the building. How on earth did you wind up here?

"If you go down this hall you-" I began and point down the hallway behind us.

He starts walking and passes by my side, "Good. I feel thirsty. Let's go."

"Huh?" I blurt out in question.

He stops and looks at me over his shoulder, "I'll buy you something for the trouble, Hikigaya. This school is too damn big for directions."

"Ah, uh, sure," The prospect of free food had me automatically agree. No, you idiot! You already have Belldandy's heavenly bento, dammit!

He nods his head, "Then lead the way again, kiddo."

I sigh to myself but nod anyway. I should probably tell Miura about this in case I'm not here when she arrives. Don't want her thinking I went stag, right?

I type her a quick message in order to potentially save my skin, and while I do, the man laughs, "What? Texting your girlfriend? Ah… The life of youth."

"Uh, no, we're just acquaintances," I respond, trying to sound as neutral as I can.

And we finally start walking. It isn't long before our momentary silence was broken…

"It's that blonde girl that was with you in class, right?" Onizuka-san chuckles, "Hehe. You really got yourself a hot chick! Damn, I should get one for myself."

I frown at his implications, again reminded of my situation with her. The possibility of being an item with her was not one I wanted to think of, because it would lead to nothing but pain. But I shake it off, it's not like he knew about that sore spot.

And when you said you wanted a 'hot chick' for yourself, you did mean one that's your age, right?

"We aren't together," I reaffirm.

He seems surprised, "That so? Wasn't she drooling for you?"

I didn't like what the conversation was devolving into. Frankly, it was pissing me off.

"That isn't the case, sir," I grind out, masking my annoyance.

He elbows me in a teasing manner, "C'mon. She had the look of those maidens in love from video games, you know kid?" And he keeps elbowing me, "You know what that means, right?"

"I'm sure you're only overthinking it, sir," I insist.

He puts a hand under his chin, and comes to a stop, "That so?" And then shrugs his shoulders easily, "If you say so."

I allow myself to relax after he surprisingly stopped mentioning my blonde classmate.

And once more, we continue our trek, in silence this time, which I really appreciated. And after a couple of minutes, we finally reached our destination. The noise inside was enough indication.

"This is it, sir," Like earlier, I gesture at the open door from where we stood. I didn't want to go in given how many people were undoubtedly present.

He pats my back, pushing me inside anyway, "C'mon Hikigaya. It will be my treat. Let's go."

I stumble momentarily but quickly regained my footing, noticing I was already the center of attention inside the cafeteria. I stand straight, and flawlessly ignore the gazes, turning slightly to the blonde man, "There's no need, Onizuka-san. I have my own lunch."

"Heh, how about something to drink?" He said before yawning.

Seeing how he probably wasn't going to let it go, and how I didn't have my own drink today, I only nodded back at him halfheartedly. Hopefully, it doesn't look as exasperated as I felt.

"Come right up then," He send me a thumbs up before heading to the booth. A couple of female students shot him a curious glance before walking away, and let me note I didn't miss his perverted face right there. He shook his head, and focused again on the task at hand, turning to the old woman attending the stall, "Hey Oba-chan, give me two bottles of milk coffee."

The elderly woman nodded her head, "Sure."

I suddenly found a bottle being tossed at me, but my new reflexes allow me to catch it before it hit me square in the face, as it probably would have happened back in my world. Onizuka-san wastes no time and opens his bottle, taking a long drink as the lunch lady watches him with amusement. I observe the bottle for some seconds before doing the same, all while still ignoring the murmurs around us.

Wait, this coffee milk is pretty tasty! How haven't I bought it before!?

Onizuka-san finishes the bottle before slamming it on the counter, then he drops his shoulders, "Destiny sucks… how could I know that dirty old man would be the vice principal here."

Are you really one to call another man 'dirty,' Onizuka-san?

The old lady rests her arms over the counter, looking curiously at the blonde man, "What's the matter? Did the interview go wrong?"

"It's that easy to tell, huh?" He comments, also resting his arms over the counter, "Maybe trash like me can't become a teacher."

Well, so long as he said it first…

I wisely keep my snide remarks to myself, favoring my drink instead.

"A young man shouldn't be calling himself trash," She reprimanded.

"But… ever since I was a kid, teachers would call me stupid and trash," He sighs, unexpectedly looking wistful, "At that time, you tend to believe it, you know?"

Huh…

For me to say that I felt as if Onizuka-san and I were kindred spirits, would be completely inaccurate. There were similarities, no doubt, but I wasn't presumptuous enough to fool myself into thinking we were the same. I don't know anything about his life and the chance that he and I shared paths was low.

First of all, I was rejected by my peers, not my instructors. While every student I met when I was younger saw me as a lesser, it did not extend to the adults until more recently, but that had to do with my eyes for the most part. However, they tended to be indifferent towards me as well, the only interaction bred out of duty than actual concern, so the argument could be made on whether that's worse than being mocked. At least they actively acknowledge your presence, right?

Second, Onizuka-san's appearance is not favorable for the average person. I almost mistook him as a gang member because of his white suit earlier today. I won't presume to label him as a delinquent, although his behavior speaks for him, because I don't know anything about him; but rotten adults have no problem doing so, and will treat you in the manner you are perceived. In Onizuka-san's case, he is trash to his teachers possibly because of how he presented himself. Whether they were unreasonable or 'justified,' is only known between them.

However, it stuck with him even as an adult. Goes to show the power of words and the psychological wounds they leave behind.

Either way, I was beginning to feel uncomfortable listening in. This was personal topic I felt I shouldn't be intruding on. I brought Onizuka-san here and he repaid me for the favor, the least he deserves is some privacy, right?

"Tha-" As I attempt to give my thanks and excuse myself, Onizuka's voice overtook my own.

"I wonder why school teachers are like that…" He comments as if to himself, his tone conveying disappointment. "I know I'm stupid and quick to fight… I know I may not be suited to teach others… but…" I raise an eyebrow as his voice suddenly gained determination. "But if I became a teacher, I'd never do that. I would never call my students trash."

I promptly shut my mouth at the sheer amount of unfiltered emotion in his tone. I couldn't help but feel my respect rise for him at his lack of hesitation. People aren't readily capable of admitting their short-comings as Onizuka-san just did. Even to themselves, no, especially to themselves.

And from what I see, the old lady was startled, maybe even impressed as I was. As for the blonde man in question though, he spun around, leaning his back on the counter with hands pocketed, looking thoughtful. I wonder if he will say anything else regarding that subject, I mean, one just doesn't share that kind of information to someone you just met, and he did it with us both just now.

And when it seems he's about to speak his mind once more, he rubs his finger under his nose, his face sporting a nervous expression, "Was that too corny?"

No, not at all. The superficial might find what Onizuka-san said as such, but it's because they fear putting themselves out there the way he did. I heard nothing but sincerity from Onizuka-san, and to call it corny is disrespectful to him to the highest degree.

I look up to see the two adults staring at me in surprise, the male even gawking at me. I was momentarily confused at it until I slowly realized that I had unknowingly said all that aloud. Kyaa~! That's soooo embarrassing!

"You…" Onizuka-san seems surprised.

And right then and there, enters a nearly-bald man, accompanied by what it seems members of the faculty. He quickly approaches us, pointing a finger at the blonde man, "Why are you here? Didn't you get you were not qualified to become a teacher?"

"Look, it's Kyōtō-sensei Uchiyamada!" I hear a student exclaim from afar as Onizuka's brow twitches in apparent irritation.

So this is the guy sitting in the vice principal's chair? Uchiyamada Hiroshi-san? He wore a brown suit, and also wore glasses… clearly had the looks of someone in that position if I'm to be honest… although he was kind of short.

"What, can't I at least use the cafeteria?" Growled Onizuka-san, arms folded.

And the vice principal ignores him, noticing my presence in that moment, "I see what's happening here. Is this some sort of hoodlum gathering?" I blink at that, fully noting eyes of disdain directed at me, "Hikigaya Hachiman… one of the worst failures this school has had the displeasure of suffering through."

I visibly recoil at his blatant insult before instinctively furrowing my eyebrows. That was both unnecessary and unprofessional for someone with the title of Kyōtō-sensei. Still, I remain silent. As bothered as I was, an adult suddenly saying that to me instantly drained me of my composure. I wouldn't give him the satisfaction of hearing me stutter.

"I still wonder why the director hasn't expelled you," Sneered the bald man, "Such a disgrace to have people like you in our institution. Huh, no wonder this school has so many problems."

My frown only deepens at his words. I make no attempt at trying to defend myself, mostly because I was aware of my previous self's reputation. If anything, Uchiyamada, as unprofessional as he seems, may be justified here. Even if he's using an abhorrent method of showcasing it.

One of the men at Uchiyamada's side put a hand on his shoulder, "Kyōtō-sensei. You shouldn't be wasting your time with this boy. He'll eventually be expelled and even the director won't be able to stop it."

"He dishonored our school's name," Responded Uchiyamada to that other man. "And he continues to cause trouble! We lost many good members in one of the sports clubs thanks to him."

And yet you don't even bother to remember what club they belonged to… I furrow my eyebrows further.

"They attacked me, Kyōtō-sensei, not the other way around," I couldn't keep myself from piping up. I'll take whatever past criticisms they may have of me, but I refuse to tolerate them spinning the truth about Thursday's conflict.

"You expect me to believe a proven delinquent over students with promising prowess? Students that can actually give Sobu the reputation it deserves?" Shot back the bald man.

Does this guy even know anything regarding this event?

"There were two other witnesses, and Hiratsuka-sensei even questioned one of the perpetrators that was in the nurse's office," I slowly point out, briefly losing my sudden burst of courage at being outnumbered.

Dammit… this is bad…

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 08 Section: Song 04

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"Hiratsuka is too easy-going to notice the reality of her students. I know your tricks, boy, I know you must have planned all of it to make it look like they attacked you," Uchiyamada folded his arms, his face contorting with disgust, "But you're not going to fool me," He chuckled out of nowhere, "Maybe not having Hiratsuka around is for the best, no one will protect troublemakers like you anymore."

Was he just blind to the evidence against his accusations? I know my reputation was low enough to not warrant trust, but surely Miura and Shiromeguri's testaments had to hold some weight. And why the hell are you even doubting Hiratsuka-sensei's professional certitude?

I felt my outrage beginning to grow within me. I tried to keep myself calm, but my frustration was stubbornly stuck on my face and refused to relax. My body was tense and my blood was boiling.

"But no doubt you're going to protect those meatheads just because they're in a sports club?" I derisively question before I was able to keep a lid on myself.

"Of course I will. On the other hand, I have no obligation to stand up for trash."

I almost gasped at that, but openly glare at the man. It took everything I had to not say anything I would regret. I didn't like not being in control of myself, because I despised the aspect of not being able to predict my actions. But it was a battle that I was gradually beginning to lose as I noted the judgmental glares from the rest of the staff, bar the two outside the group.

This was unfair, he knew he had all the power! That fucking bastard!

"Ah, that's the look I expected from you," Uchiyamada smirked, apparently finding amusing this situation. "That's not an expression of a normal student. Those are the eyes of a future murderer," He chuckled, his tone now mocking, "I wouldn't be surprised if you've done so already. Perhaps you're the serial killer? Should I call 119 to turn you in? Maybe then Sobu will be free from your pestilence."

You… You…! You bald headed…! Bastard!

I grit my teeth, my glare permanently affixed to my face, my hands balled so tightly my knuckles were becoming white. I don't have to keep listening to this load of bullshit!

I'm practically foaming at the mouth at this point, just about to reach the limits of my control. And yet, just as it almost whittled completely; I stop, noticing a certain blonde man standing behind the bald bastard, and for some reason he wrapped his arms around the vice principal's waist.

"Huh…? What… What are you doing?" Uchiyamada asked, having just realized his current situation.

It goes without saying that I have seen many absurd of things since I came here, observed unexplainable events, and have even eyewitnessed actual physical torture, and just when I thought I wouldn't become surprised anytime soon, I see Onizuka-san lifting the man by his waist before rapidly bridging his own body backwards and slamming the older man onto the floor by the small of his neck with his momentum.

Whoa. That was a German Suplex with a bridge, wasn't it…? He's still holding it too.

'…1!'

'…2!'

'…3!'

'Winner by pinfall! Onizuka Eikichiiiii!'

'Go Ace!'

Wait, why the heck was I treating it like an actual match!? And Onizuka-san is not the Ace of the Universe either!

"Unbelievable…" I blink, only just noticing Fuyutsuki-sensei standing behind me.

Gasps erupted across the cafeteria, murmurs began as Onizuka-san effortlessly jumped back to his feet and stood straight, dusting his hands clean.

"Kyōtō-sensei!" One of the men that accompanied him cried out in shock as he knelt to check on the unconscious man, "That's outrageous! Didn't you say you want to become a teacher!? Do you understand what you did!?" He continued to shout, aggravated by these turn of events, "It's violence! It's a huge problem!"

However, Onizuka-san wasn't scared, if more, he looked pissed, "Don't you look down on him, bastard!" His voice was low, but held a fierce edge to it. "You call people trash as if they are… Why is such verbal abuse allowed, huh!?"

Despite that Uchiyamada was out cold, Onizuka-san seemed to say those words to him. And it made the other man fall on his butt regardless, clearly afraid of Onizuka-san's intimidating demeanour, "Because of teachers like you, this kid… lost what was supposed to be his second safe haven."

"Y-you…" Stutters the clearly terrified man.

Onizuka-san sighs, "If this is what you call education, I don't want to be a teacher anymore. I'll gladly decline."

And with that, he walked past me, "Let's go. I'm done here."

Still in shock, I dumbly ask, "H-huh? …Where?"

"Dunno, but anywhere else is better than standing close to these bastards."

Silence covers the entire place, his steps the only sound echoing in the room. The woman known as Fuyutsuki-sensei puts a hand on my shoulder and nods at me, as if telling me to follow after him. I drop my gaze, still dumbfounded by what I had just witnessed before walking behind the man.

We left the area behind in stunned silence.

8-8

No matter how many times I mulled it over my head, I still had a hard time coming to grips with what took place. Right, let's start from the beginning so I can make sense of it all.

First, I overheard Onizuka-san readily admit his faults and aspirations with a sincerity that I didn't expect. And I accidentally commented about it in earnest. Well, as embarrassing as it was, I couldn't take it back. Additionally, my remark may have been what led to Onizuka-san to acting after the next confrontation. Without realizing it, Onizuka-san saved me from myself in a way.

I look at my hands that had unconsciously balled up in recollection of why he had to intervene in the first place. I felt some licks of my previous anger flow within me before I relaxed myself. It's fine now, no need to stay pissed. Still, this fury was new to me.

Was this the anger I felt when I was with Gasai?

…No, I don't believe so. I recall having actual homicidal thoughts when it came to the pink-haired woman, only barely keeping myself on acting upon it. I know I was outraged moments earlier, more so than I have ever experienced, but it wasn't at that level. I didn't know what I planned on doing after that wild accusation, but I'd like to think it wasn't anything crazy. I should learn to keep a better lid on that rash emotion, being driven by impulse is not something I fancy.

That man… Kyōtō-sensei Uchiyamada… He's the one that's worth less than trash, even more so than me at my lowest. I release a deep breath before my anger was able to return. I won't let that man affect me when he wasn't even present, I won't give him that power over me.

I look back up at my adult companion who was washing his face in the sink, with additional respect for him. It was equal to dipping a toe into the beach, but, I observed what he had gone through during his educational tenure, even if it was for a brief moment. Again, I'm not so forward as to say I understand him now, but I did now empathize with this one aspect at least.

Onizuka-san had brought us to a painfully familiar male's restroom after the altercation, literally, I think I felt my hand throb in phantom pain after looking at a certain mirror. They hadn't replaced it yet, seems like. Ugh… Thanks for the reminder of my first act of delinquency…

Eventually Onizuka-san closed the water pipe, using his own jacket to dry his face.

According to Komachi, a socially savvy person should immediately thoroughly thank the person who got them out of a predicament where regrets were guaranteed. But that's not what I was, and thanking him wasn't my priority.

"…You only caused yourself more trouble with Sobu by getting involved, sir."

I needed to know why he dragged himself into this mess.

He didn't respond immediately, gazing at the broken glass for some few seconds, when suddenly, he turned to me with a calm expression and… started picking his nose…

For real!?

"I guess, but I would do it again, so there's no use in thinking about it, kid," Responded the man in a carefree manner. "I suppose me becoming a teacher was too far-fetched." He put his jacket over his shoulder, looking at the door, "I'll have to get over it."

Was it really that easy for adults? Turning their backs and saying 'Oh well' to their efforts that didn't bear fruit? Or maybe it's because they're adults that makes them capable of doing so without flinching. Still…

"Is that really okay?" I ask honestly.

Onizuka-san laughed to himself, patting my back, "Well, I tried, and this was the only available school that would accept a substitute that hasn't taken that damned exam for the teachers, you know?" He yawned, motioning his head for me to follow. "In any case, this school is too damn big. Can you show me the exit, Hikigaya?"

I contemplated going along with his lackadaisical acceptance for the sake of less trouble. He knew what was best for himself, right? Who was I to say otherwise? However, I still didn't get the answer I was searching for.

"Onizuka-san," I call out before he walked through the door, "Did you get involved as an excuse to halt your teaching career?"

The blonde didn't respond and left the bathroom but I know he heard me. I narrow my gaze and decided to follow after the man just to find him staring through the windows at the inner grounds of Sobu, where many students were gathered as lunch break was still going on.

"Huh, isn't that an interesting question, Hikigaya?" He commented with amusement in his tone, his focus still on the sight the windows allowed him to see, "But if you must know, I just couldn't watch that asshole call a student 'trash'. What kind of teacher would do that anyway?"

He had a point there, but even so, that meant he killed his own aspirations knowingly.

"It's nothing I haven't heard before," I lie while technically telling the truth.

It might not have happened to me per se, but it probably happened to the previous Hachiman.

I didn't think even this Sobu would have teachers that wouldn't hesitate in abusing their students. Sure, I technically might have had it coming because of my bad reputation and for whatever I did in the Sports Festival, but surely there were more professional ways to go about it, right? Insulting your students just seems immature and pointlessly harmful. Worse still since it's done intentionally.

What did they expect by doing that? The abuse either breeds resentment, potentially leading to delinquency and worsening society, or it destroys self-worth leading to… Well, I suppose you can say that'd be one reason for the spike in deaths for the students in Japan over the years…

Onizuka-san raised an eyebrow, "There's nothing I can really do now anyway. I'm just not suited to be a teacher. Maybe I was just lying to myself, so I suppose I'll have to search for a new aspiration, hehe." He chuckled, but it ended as fast as it came, his gaze becoming distant. "I guess…"

Silence came for a moment, when he blinked as of recalling I was still there.

"Why are yo-" I began yet his voice came out louder.

"Hahaha!" He laughed, starting to move toward the stairs, "I remember these stairs… Heh, I think I'll be able to make it to the entrance on my own. Well, see ya Hikigaya. Don't let that bald shitface look down on you. He doesn't have any right to do it."

With how quickly he excused himself, I idly note how he avoid topics just as fast. Well, there wasn't much else to say anyway. I heard his reasons and future intentions, what he does is his own business.

"That isn't up to me," I shrug with a casual enough tone, "But, uh, good luck, sir."

He waved a hand over his head while walking down the stairs. I stood on the same spot for several seconds before looking through the window with my usual blank stare, wondering just who was Onizuka Eikichi-san. Luckily or unluckily, the chances of him becoming my substitute homeroom teacher have easily become zero, especially after earlier events, leaving whoever else open to the other faculty talking about me. I noticed my other teachers being in that group with the stupid baldy, perhaps Hiratsuka-sensei kept them in check since I hadn't had problems with them the previous week. Now that she's out for a few months, there's a good chance they'll give me flak for the littlest thing that I do.

Great…

I don't even have the option of being a model student —not that I was one in the first place— because it'll be seen as a farce. And like I mentioned multiple times, getting dragged into trouble isn't really up to me. I can be attacked again in the coming future and without Hiratsuka-sensei as my defendant, every perpetrator will get away with it and the blame will lie on me. The Vice Principal had no problems accusing me of staging my own attack, what's stopping him from blindly turning an eye to more obvious instances where I'm the victim?

Argh… Shit. What do I do now? Obviously this would be the part of the story in which the antagonist (My counterpart) gets his comeuppance, but an innocent bystander (Me) is taking the fall for him instead.

Things have apparently taken a turn for the worse here in Sobu… and I still have to deal with all that crazy supernatural crap and the game of that bastard god…

If I'm to make it through the upcoming troubles here, I will have to tread very lightly. And even that isn't a guarantee.

Oh crap, Miura is probably mad since she was looking forward to eating lunch with me… I can already see a massive attack from her coming once I see her… I'll probably die…

Geez…

The bell ringing suddenly signals the end of lunch break, so I decide to head back to class.

Wait, I didn't get to eat my lunch gifted by the (un)divine! Damn it!

8-9

Was it just me or did classes end quicker than usual?

I raise my head as the final bell is heard all over school, the signal that classes for today had ended. I glance around, everyone was either leaving their seats or grouping up to share gossip or simple banter, which I decide to ignore since it doesn't really matter to me. For some reason I thought I misheard the bell, so confirming it was not just me was in order. I guess I'm still a bit distracted after what had happened during lunch.

Onizuka Eikichi-san, huh?

I release a sigh, taking hold of my bookbag and prepare to leave the class. It is then that I feel a persistent vibration against my right thigh. What the heck was that? Are these the last sensations I will feel throughout my body before I collapse in a heap!? Am I dying!?

Oh, wait, that's just my phone, isn't it?

I take out the device as its sustained vibration continues. Oh, it's Harima, huh? Honestly, I never expected him to be so committed in writing his manga. What a surprisingly dutiful fellow…

I was going to answer his call yet I'm stopped short when someone suddenly drags the desk to my side towards mine. The noise of steel scraping against the solid ground echoes loudly, annoying me for a second before realizing Miura was the one behind it.

And now… Miura-tan is once more invading my personal space… great… and here I thought I was gonna give my heart some well-deserved rest. How naive of me.

"You're too loud," I grumbled, not appreciating the attention she brought with her. Ah, I missed the call. Well, I'll be sure to answer once I finish with Miura. She probably wouldn't like if I took a call when she wanted to talk. Not to mention it's rude.

"Am I?" She glanced around before returning her focus back on me, "Aren't you exaggerating, Hikio?"

No I am not, Miura-san, I can feel the gazes of some of the students one us. The portion that landed on me were not particularly positive. It's not like I really care about the intent behind them but… more on the fact that they were on me in the first place.

"What is it?" I opt out answering her and ask a question of my own. No doubt the Fire Queen won't appreciate the daggers that are currently stabbing me, and I don't want to cause a ruckus. Especially after earlier.

"Hikio… I heard you got involved in some trouble again…" She muttered, looking concerned, "They say, like, you and some guy attacked Kyōtō-sensei… What happened?"

Even though I had expected the deviating rumor to have somehow blame me for what happened, I couldn't help but still raise my eyebrow at it. Even in front of an audience, I'm one of the attackers and not the actual victim. It's a wonder how I hadn't been suspended yet given how willing the witnesses were to throw me into the lion's maw.

"I didn't attack anyone," I corrected her with some annoyance, "People just turned a blind eye when that guy started mouthing off at me."

"I knew it… that stupid bald head…" Miura bit her lip, "I dunno how he gets away with treating students badly…"

Her words give me pause, "Does he do similar things to others?"

"Not that much, but I heard that the Vice Principal's a total jerk to students that are considered a problem to the school…" She blinks and suddenly starts waving her hands frantically, "I-I don't mean that Hikio is one b-but… like, you get my point…"

"It's fine," I nodded at her, pondering at the idea of an adult harassing students he doesn't prefer. Disgusting. How is it that he's able to do that with no repercussions?

Ah, since it's problem students he's targeting, Uchiyamada-sensei has the legitimacy to support him if any one of the students tries to complain. And like me, the students in particular would not be trusted over the word of the Vice Principal. What a cruel cycle.

"So, it was just my turn today then…" I idly wondered. And without Hiratsuka-sensei to play as my silent protector, it may start happening more often. Uchiyamada-sensei has already shown his capability to talk down to me in a public space, and it'll probably be bolstered after Onizuka-san assaulted him.

"But if it wasn't you, who did it then? Was it that other man everyone mentioned?" She asked, leaning on me.

It takes my all not to pull away, "Ah, yeah. Onizuka-san inserted himself to the situation."

"Onizuka? That's his name?" Miura frowned, staring intensely, "How do you know?"

"He was…" I contemplate an appropriate word that wasn't too negative, "Chatty."

The blonde blinked in realization, "Don't tell me it was that creep you took to the vice principal's office in the morning…" Her brows furrow, "That guy was so gross…"

The reminder of Onizuka-san's behavior, made me recall my earlier… 'discovery' concerning the female uniform. I will myself to not glance at my companion's lower extremities. The perverted man didn't know what he caused!

"It was," I scratch the back of my head, sensing my phone vibrating again. Oh right, Miura-tan's sudden appearance made me forget that the delinquent actually called just now. He's starting to become incessant. I can't answer now either, take the hint.

To my dismay, Miura noticed it and frowned, "Your phone is vibrating… Aren't going to get that, Hikio?"

"It's just Harima," I tell her without bothering to look at my phone this time, "It doesn't matter."

Being annoying gives me less incentive to answer him, you knoooooow?

She bites her lip, "Are you sure…?" Then she shrugs her shoulders, "So what happens now about your problem with Uchiyamada-sensei?" She asked, leaning even more closely, much to my dismay.

"I don't know," I answer her honestly, "I'm surprised nothing's happened yet."

And if like an incantation, the door is suddenly slid open, two men dressed formally and looking less than amused. I narrow my gaze, cursing my last statement. Me and my big mouth…

"Hikigaya Hachiman," They turn to me once they stand before the board, looking solemn. "You are being summoned by the Headmaster."

Miura blinks in fear, standing up, "It's… it's not his fault…! He didn't do anything!"

I looked up at my classmate in shock at her outburst. I knew she would have been at least worried for me, but never did I expect her to be this active in defending me. Maybe the fight on Thursday riled her up more than I suspected?

"The Headmaster will be the one to decide that," One of the men responded, fixing his glasses.

The other looked at us dryly, "Don't make the headmaster wait. She already did much for you by trying to resolve your delinquent acts in the school after classes."

However, as before, Miura was the one to voice her opinion, "He's not a delinquent! If anything, Kyōtō-sensei is the on-"

"Miura!" I raised my voice before she said something that could compromise her own reputation. It's probably in a grey area because of her association with me, no need for her to make it worse. Especially not for my sake.

My sudden shout made Miura jump in surprise. When she looked at me, I could see the fear and uneasiness in her features. Whether they were meant for me or if she was scared that she overstepped a boundary, I wasn't sure. But I still felt the need to reassure her and calm her nerves.

"It'll be fine," I nodded at her calmly, "Don't worry."

"But you didn't do anything…" Her voice's volume lowered until it became a whisper, "It's… not fair Hikio…"

"I was still involved," I point out to her with a shake of my head, "That's what matters to them."

Her shoulders dropped, and her green orbs stared down at the floor. It really bothered me to see her like this, I could even sense the impotence in her voice. I don't deserve her concern, but there's at least one thing I can do now that she's so worried.

"I didn't actually do anything, so chances are, they just want my side of the story. I witnessed it all, remember?" I attempt to placate her. It was weak, but hopefully it's good enough.

She stared at me, her eyes shining with uncertainty and fear, and I swear I'm going to hug her with all my might if she continues… Wait, what? Argh! Stop that, dammit!

And she nodded her head slowly, "Alright…"

"You should head back home before me," I say, adjusting the bookbag on my shoulder, "See you tom-"

"No."

That took me by surprise, "Huh?"

"I'll wait for you to come back," She stated firmly.

I sort of expected it, but that won't do. Who knows what's going to happen, and I don't want her to become involved for waiting for me. I gotta put my foot down too.

Or at least that's what I wanted to do, before I was interrupted…

"How long are you planning to waste the Headmaster's time, Hikigaya. Hurry up!" A loud growl echoed in the classroom, every student tensing at the stern voice.

"It might take a while, Miura. I'll be fine," I tell Miura quickly, slipping a small, helpless smile on my face to gain some credibility. Hopefully it didn't come off too forced and creepy.

"Hikio…"

"I'll feel bad if you stay," And with that, I finally leave the class together with the staff members, following closely behind them. My phone was vibrating again as I did… this guy… doesn't he know when to stop? Whatever… I let it keep going without paying it any mind.

And these two… do they actually think I could try to escape from them? How low of a reputation do I have anyway? I know I'm hated, but thinking I could try to blatantly avoid a call from the Headmaster themself… It would be outright stupid too.

It took us a few minutes to reach the Headmaster's office, I knew this because every single one of them was met with a vibration on my leg in five second spans. Great… Now he's sending my messages…

Damn it, Harima… I can't answer you at all right now, my academic future in Sobu might be over by the end of the hour.

I tried in vain to send him a brief apology that I was busy at the moment, but his constant messaging was making my phone vibrate too much for me to be able to write anything legible (read: it was too annoying and distracting). I growl in frustration at this fact and decide to try and ignore it. Maybe he'll get fed up and stop.

The ceaseless vibrations in my leg, makes me doubt myself. But I put it at the back of my mind.

Now that I think about it, I never got involved with the school's director back in my world, since I wasn't really someone to cause trouble or to be noticed for any achievement, but in this insane world… Geez… I suspect this will be Baldie's crap all over again…

Whoever said all publicity was good publicity was an idiot.

I'm not sure if I'll be able to keep my composure this time around… But the last thing I need is to be expelled for attacking the Headmaster… Ugh… Never thought I would be uncertain of my anger management… but this stupid world keeps pushing me to my limits.

*Bzzt* *Bzzt*

Damn it! Leave me alone!

I tear my phone out of my pocket and silence the damn thing. It was almost a cathartic feeling with the vibrations finally over. Wait, why didn't I just do this earlier and spare myself the annoyance? Say, doesn't that mean I can message him now?

My realization came too late as the men in front of me stop. I raise my gaze to see a name at the side of the wooden door in front of us, displaying the following:

Headmaster Sakurai Ryoko

Sakurai Ryoko-san? That's another name I don't recall. Then again, unlike Yuki-pedia, I never made it my business to memorize names in this school. Huh, I guess that could explain my lack of recognition with some of the faculties. Although I knew for sure that Baldie wasn't in Sobu in my world, they wouldn't hire a failure like him.

Wait, Sakurai… Who do I know with that name? There's just so many people whose names I'm supposed to know…

Hmm, all I have is a recollection of some girl stomping on something on the floor. Must have been a bug or something, so why did that pop up?

Erk, standing in front of the door made the situation all that more real. I was practically cornered here with no way out, and I saw no conclusion where things go my way. I was part of the accused in assaulting the poor excuse of a vice principal, and while I may have a chance to defend myself, I was still seen arguing with him. At best, I can get away with a simple suspension because of my already poor standing.

So, damage control is the best thing I have going for me.

Alright Hachiman… Expect wild accusations, and don't react to them like you did with Baldie. He got you by surprise and you became impulsive because of it. Also, don't raise your voice and definitely don't display your annoyance; that'll be used as fuel against you. And don't be overly respectful; chances are that it'll be interpreted as me mocking the Headmaster if it isn't seen as out character first.

Calm, cool, and collected. You can pull that off, right? Or at least the first and third one since everyone would probably readily accuse me of being anything but cool…

No, don't think about that, you have a weapon for this kind of occasion. It's taken some hits, but it's come off stronger than ever after its Zenkai boost! My newly revitalized Hachiman skill: 'Composed Hikki,' will be put to the test once more.

The bespectacled man of the two open the door, motioning his head for me to go inside. I wisely pocket my phone in order to not make things worse. Harima be damned.

This is it then… I take a breath to steel my nerves and walk into the gallows. I wouldn't say my posture was confident, but it also wasn't (completely) defeated.

The door is suddenly closed behind me, before silence filled the office. Before me was a large wooden desk, with two chairs positioned by the side where I stood and one at the other, which was by the way facing the large window behind it. The only source of light in the room.

I frown to myself, the back of the chair was tall, so I couldn't even identify the Headmaster yet. Since nothing was said, I observe the room, noticing a bookshelf on the left, and a large, brown sofa to the right. There were files over the large desk, which I suspect are from the people interviewed for the newly vacant position. She gets the final say on the Vice Principal's recommendations.

And for some reason, the room is still silent.

Geez… Isn't this atmosphere too overwhelming for Sobu's Headmaster? I feel like calling this a trip to the gallows was actually more accurate than I gave it credit for… I'm just here for the sentencing. I wasn't even given the offer to commit seppuku to try and salvage my already absent honor. Oh, that's probably why then…

"Hikigaya Hachiman…" A feminine, heavy voice calls my name, making me tense, "When was the last time you were summoned to my office?"

I reflexively swallow, barely able to keep my nerves steady. The fact the Headmaster was a woman —a case I don't recall it being in my world— wasn't relevant because of her intimidating aura. I didn't know the answer, but it doesn't take a genius to realize she wasn't looking for specifics. This was most likely a more professional way of saying "You again, huh?" in a less rhetorical manner. Kind of like when a parent speaks to their troublesome child.

"…" I hesitate for a bit, finding the appropriate words that someone with a bad reputation would say, "Not that long ago."

Silence reigned for a few seconds, when her voice came once more, "Do you know why you were called?"

I actually had two things to choose from, the Thursday attack or today's event. "…I guess there'd be two reasons at least…"

So I went with both.

"Two reasons? And they would be?"

There was no chance she didn't know what I meant. She was testing me, that much I could tell, "There was the thing on Thursday and then today."

"And do you have a defense for those two incidents?"

"I was the one who was attacked by that group Thursday evening," I'm able to state that confidently enough, "There are two witnesses who saw it towards the end."

"I heard about that…" Came the woman's dignified voice, "So about the other incident?"

"I argued with Uchiyamada-sensei…" I admit slowly, seeing how I did do that, "But I didn't instigate the conflict, and I was not involved in his assault."

"You do realize an important figure in the faculty has been harmed today, and the witnesses say you convinced the man to attack the vice principal?"

So people did say that…

Honestly, don't they have better things to do than come up with lies in order to cover up their failures? I understand them trying to blow it out of proportion and make it seem as though Onizuka-san preemptively struck first, but why drag me into things? No, wait, I already know why…

"I only escorted Onizuka-san to the lunch area," I retort. "I didn't command him to do anything. Not that I could, or would, for that matter."

Silence came again, and it lasted more than I would have liked. Seriously, not seeing the face of your interrogator is ten times worse than being threatened by one. The sense of uncertainty is too damn annoying.

"What did you think about than man, Onizuka?" Came an inquiry I didn't expect.

"Onizuka-san?" I ask her, startled. I'm sure she nodded in the affirmative, awaiting my answer. "He… surprisingly cares about his position as a teacher more than I assumed."

Although his wandering eyes were problematic.

"So you think what he did to the vice principal was the correct thing to do?" Her voice was sharp, and now that I think about it, I think it belonged to someone old… I think… I still couldn't see her face.

"Everyone always feels justified of their own actions, Kōchō-sensei," I tell the woman, "Doesn't mean it's always the case, even if Uchiyamada-sensei was the instigator in the first place."

The chair moved slightly, turning a bit, yet it wasn't enough to see the woman behind it.

"Aren't your responses too impartial?" I raise an eyebrow, "The last time I talked with you, you seemed determined to show your distaste towards everything in Sobu."

I, what? Oi, previous self, were you trying to get yourself expelled? Er… How to respond…

"Disliking Sobu doesn't mean I'll stand by and be wrongfully accused," I pipe up, "In fact, it could be seen as an incentive. I'm speaking plainly because I refuse to be accused for things I didn't do by the Sobu faculty and student body."

There was no response to that, and instead, the woman turned the chair around completely, and I find myself in complete shock. Isn't she the lunch lady!? What was she doing here!? Either this school was more of a mess than I initially thought, or she went undercover for some reason…

But if she was the Headmaster, then she saw what happened… So, she already knew that I was in the clear. Then what did she call me here for? Also, how did the faculty not notice her?

The woman, who seemed to be middle-aged since she had some wrinkles, still wore the glasses she sported as a lunch lady, but this time though, she wore a formal, light-colored suit. She supported her elbows over the desk as she mimicked the legendary Ikari Gendo's posture, her glasses hiding her gaze as the light didn't reach her face.

"Hikigaya Hachiman," She started gravely, the tension becoming almost palpable. Where did that kind old lady from lunch time run off to!?

I school my shock immediately, "…What is it?" I asked tentatively, fighting against my ingrained civility with adults.

"I'll ask again. What did you think of that man, Onizuka?"

I wasn't sure what she was looking for, so I point out, "You were there when I gave my opinion of him before things went south."

"If we go along with that line of thinking, you would have opened up with that. I know you would have noticed my presence."

She had me there…

"If I had, then I would have gambled on your decision without even attempting to defend myself. I'm not a fan of blind faith."

"Then let me change my question," The woman's posture becomes stoic. "Do you think that man is qualified to be a teacher?"

I raise an eyebrow at that, "I'm not equipped to answer that kind of question. And even if I was, I don't know anything about his teaching credentials."

The woman rests her back on the chair, still stoic as ever, "You don't need to, all I want to know is what you think. Would he be a good teacher?"

I take a moment to formulate and answer, somewhat startled at the fact that she wanted the opinion of the most hated student on campus. I wasn't sure how much weight she thought my words had, so I felt the need to correct her there first.

"What I think of him, doesn't particularly matter," I start, "If students were to choose teachers that they like, then there is a good chance that their education would suffer for it. I only know that Onizuka-san seems sincere in his intent to want to be a good influence on students and prepare them properly for adulthood. I cannot say whether he would be an effective teacher or not."

The woman rests a hand over the desk's surface and stands on her feet, "I have read his proposed curriculum, and he doesn't meet the requirements to be a teacher for our school." She stepped around her desk, her eyes landing on a certain file, "But I have come to the conclusion that even so, this man is what Sobu needs."

"Needs?" I couldn't help but tilt my head in confusion. What was she on about? Even with Onizuka-san's good intentions, not meeting the basic requirements should immediately disqualify him, right?

"Despite Sobu being a prestigious school, inner problems are mounting, such as your situation. Not to mention the latest signs of delinquency, bullying and harassment of the opposite sex… It's getting worse every year and I can hardly handle it by myself."

"Why tell me this, Kōchō-sensei?" I ask her honestly, "Aren't I part of that problem?"

The chairwoman closes her eyes, "We're all part of the problem, Hikigaya-kun." With hands behind her, she turned around and stood by the large window, "Maybe we have lost sight of what it means to be teachers… which is the reason we failed to see how you felt towards this school." She looks at me from the corner of her eyes, "But, the german suplex that man pulled, ignoring the obvious repercussions for there mere thought of standing true to his ideals… Sobu needs that strength… don't you agree?"

Because I was an outsider, I obviously didn't understand what she meant. I only saw the failings in Sobu for the first time today, so I was ignorant about everything else.

"So long as it doesn't become a Battle School at least," I quipped sarcastically with a shrug.

Chairwoman Sakurai chuckles at that, "Then you agree with me?"

"Er, why does my opinion matter? I'm hardly the best student to ask."

My eyes follow the woman as she sits once more, although this time, she sported a kind smile, her serious demeanor gone, "You're just the person I had to ask. I still remember what you said during the Sports Festival."

Oi, seriously, what the hell did I do during the Sports Festival?

"It's not like I gained any fans after that," I play off my lack of knowledge of what she was referring to. Remembering what Yukihira said about me a few days ago, about my other self wanting to show Sobu its true self, I can only imagine that 'I' publicly criticized the school during the festival. But what on earth did I supposedly say?

"'Screw the system, screw everyone's needs…' Wasn't it?" The woman said, thoughtful, as if… Quoting? "'Who cares about school when it's an alien place where anyone can end up becoming a slave to stupidity and arrogance?'" She turns to me. "'Who can care for school when instead of finding a second home, you only find a whole bunch of cold bastards that only care for their own hides?'"

She seemed disappointed, "Such words coming from a student, it made me realize how we had failed you as a school, and as teachers…" Then she gave an amused smile. "Although, perhaps more tact would have been appropriate."

It really took a lot out of me to not completely react to her recollection, opting to appear ponderous. Seriously? He said that to the whole school? No wonder a large portion of the faculty hated me… He made a mockery of their positions, regardless of whether he was in the right.

But then why do the rest of the students hate me so much? I must have done something else to earn their ire.

"…I didn't think you'd take that as anything other than the ravings of a delinquent," I admit to her. It was true, if I had been a model student saying those words I would have understood her prioritizing them, but because of my horrible standings, it came as a surprise. It'd be like comparing Yukinoshita's criticisms versus my own, the Ice Queen has much more credibility than I could ever hope for.

"You're a student in Sobu, no matter what you have done," She states seriously.

Did she really put that much stock into my words?

"…I'm just one student…" I say hesitantly. Right, who's to say anyone else feels the same? Hiratsuka-sensei did say that a reason why students hated me was because of what I said. What if it's because they disagreed?

"Yet you're the only one that has dared to address the failures in our education system, and how these really affected students. I can't by any means ignore it."

I remain silent, not knowing what to say. Did she see me as some kind of voice for the voiceless? If that was the case, I'm pretty bad at it, seeing as how I had nothing but negativity thrown my way.

Headmaster Sakurai chuckled, before reasumming the legendary posture once more, her gaze gaining the edge it displayed before. That could only mean business.

"Well, now that I heard your response," The woman raised her sharp gaze, "I will need your assistance, Hikigaya-kun."

I raise an eyebrow, slightly bewildered, "…Mine?"

Alright… this isn't how I foresaw things occurring… at all… I was ready to use my Composed Hikki skill to the fullest, and yet, this turn of events really had left me in a position where I never imagined ending up in.

The headmaster had actually asked for my help.

The bespectacled brownhead nodded her head slightly, "You're the last person who spoke with Onizuka Eikichi. Do you happen to know where I can find him now?"

I blink twice, "Can't you just call him?"

"I'm afraid there was no phone number included in his curriculum, nor any information that could help me locate him," The woman sighed, "I was hoping you knew where he was headed."

What kind of an idiot wouldn't include his contact information in his résumé? How many jobs has he lost out on because of that reckless mistake? I doubt there were that many in the first place, but…

"I don't," I shake my head, "He left saying how his dreams as a teacher were too much to ask for."

Might as well indicate the possibility of him having given up.

Her expression hardens visibly, "That won't do. We need to find him."

"We?" I narrow my gaze, "It was just a coincidence that I ran into him earlier. I have nothing to do with him. I don't even know how much help I can provide in the first place since I don't know anything about him."

The woman straightened her posture, "Is that so? If I recall correctly, you've been gaining reputation around a certain kind of people. I wouldn't be surprised if someone you know has heard about him."

'A certain kind of people?' What does that mean? I make sure to display some of my confusion to her, for the sake of getting further elaboration. Although seeing as how she had yet to react, I failed in broadcasting it.

"I don't know what you mean…" I say tentatively, trying to appear as if I'm feigning ignorance. Although I actually was in the dark.

The woman's gaze focused on me, "I'm sure you do, Shadow Fist."

"Erk…!" Although the title wasn't one that I came up with, it still served as a bitter reminder of my dark history. As such, it struck like a physical blow.

"I've studied you, Hikigaya-kun," She admitted shamelessly, her face unchanging. "You gained reputation among many gangs here in Chiba, which means that you must have heard of this man."

Well, if she was saying what I think she was, that means Onizuka-san is a reformed delinquent or something. I mean, he still dresses like one, so it's not like he was trying to get away from it. Wait, that sounds eerily similar to Harima.

Speaking of which…

"I haven't…" I gave her a shake of my head, "But if he has a reputation… An acquaintance of mine might have heard."

That is of course, Harima. I bet that guy knows of Onizuka-san, or maybe he knows of someone who does. I'll have to speak with him once I'm done with this… which reminds me that I probably won't be able to help him with the manga, so I'll kill two birds with one stone and also tell him that as well. He won't be happy though… Crap, what if he doesn't help?

I noticed Headmaster Sakurai smirking, as if she had expected my response, "I want to make Sobu better, for all its students and for yourself, so this might be your chance to make up for both our failings. Find Onizuka Eikichi, and I will help you… if you're willing to receive my help that is."

This woman confuses me. I don't understand why she has such faith in two people regarded at the lowest place in society. I have a bad reputation, Onizuka-san is, as was implied, a former delinquent, those are justifiably reasons why we can't be trusted. We carry that stigma, and being blind to it is no less as stupid as emphasizing it.

I don't know what her 'help' entails, but I also have little to no reason to trust it. How do I know she's thinking of my well-being? I can help her get Onizuka-san back and then I'm cast off. She's in a position of authority, she can be trying to appeal to me in order for her own benefits; and she can get away with casting me off. I have a record, and she can use it to expel me, tying up loose ends as it were.

So jumping at this 'chance' is reckless in my eyes. Like I said earlier, I'm no fan of blind faith and that goes double when it comes to other people. So I need to hear more from her.

"Kōchō-sensei," I speak up, "From my point of view, it seems as if you're only trying to appeal to what you perceive as my desires. And then you ask me to put faith in you when my criticisms included you as well. I don't really have a guarantee that I won't be written off after helping you; you have more than enough evidence to expel me, I imagine."

"I do in fact, but that wouldn't help Sobu or you in any way. This might be the chance to prove to you that I have my students best interests in mind," She responded instantly, apparently not minding my distrust, "You have no reason to help me, as I have already failed you, but as an educator, I won't ignore my students… you for instance."

"You had no problems doing that these last two years," I point out methodically, "Only supposedly having a realization until after I said something."

Oh dear, that came off pretty insolently… Good thing it's expected of me.

Amazingly, she chuckled in amusement, "You certainly haven't allowed me to help you since setting foot in Sobu…" She sighed, showing for the first time a troubled expression, "Haven't you wondered how you are still able to attend this school…? But I'm afraid I don't know how much more I'll manage to keep it that way."

She's… tried helping me? Now why would she do that? I imagined my previous self being nothing but trouble for the faculty. And what she said last too, does that mean she's been doing something for my previous self without him knowing it?

"What did you do?" I question her seriously.

"Keep you here, that is," She responded in a likewise fashion.

"Why is that so important?" I asked, before snarkily adding, "Do you see me as a tool to get more funding because of my academic scores or something? Just ki-"

"You're special. Your academic potential is unlike anything I had witnessed," She reveals, her eyes fearsome, "Despite your behaviour, I had witnessed myself the extent of your intellectual capabilities." Her voice gains a sharpness that was off-putting. "Your overall scores can't be matched by any other student… and I won't allow all that go to waste."

"Hmph, no doubt you don't want Sobu to lose its 'star student' to another school, right?" I ask derisively. But at least I have my answer.

"You have the right to reach your own conclusions, Hikigaya-kun," Responded the woman as her hands intertwined. I audibly snort at the hand she's playing.

"Well, at least you're willing to admit it without making it some glorious-sounding quest of redemption," I nodded at her, "I'll do what I can."

I'm going to act not because I trust the woman, but because I can trust her intent. She wants to protect Sobu's academic reputation by keeping me around, and seeing as how I had no desire to get in trouble inside campus, she'll get what she wants. What a lucky scenario she found herself in, it's a complete win-win situation. Except for one tiny little thing…

I'm not a star student.

I have no idea how my previous self managed to do so, given how chaotic his social life is, but he is somehow the top student in Sobu. Beating out both Yukinoshita and Hayama in every subject somehow, assuming that their intellect is comparable to the counterparts I knew. I had only meant for it as a jest, but he really is academically gifted along with being physically capable. And he also has a large social circle…

Say… Doesn't this version of myself sound like my better in every imaginable way…?

Oi, Deus Ex, did you bring me here to destroy my self-esteem? Well it won't work! You can't destroy what isn't there in the first place, hah!

Wait, why am I celebrating that!?

Either way, I found another high hurdle to jump. Dear me, I really have to study for the tests, don't I? Ugh…

"Then we have reached an agreement?" She asked, seeking a confirmation.

"Ah, you want to protect 'Sobu's biggest asset,' and I find transferring at this point of time too much of a hassle," I confirm dully.

"Then we indeed have."

"I can't promise you anything, even if I do find him." I shrug at her. Onizuka-san's decision is out of my control after all.

"I'll see what I can do for you, no matter the result," She fixed her glasses. "Oh, I forgot to tell you that you only have until 6:30 this evening to bring him here."

I blink twice, "Wait… what?"

The woman sighed, "I'm afraid that our time is limited. The Directive wants the new teacher by 6:30 today. If Onizuka Eikichi doesn't make it, then our plans will be done for. I trust that you'll manage to bring him in time."

---

Go to profile, SEE: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 08 Section: Picture 04

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"Who knows?" I say dryly, "It's not like I can back out of it at this point, so I might as well give it a try."

"That is enough for me," She nods her head, ignoring my snarky remark as she lets a smile cover her face, hands intertwined, "I hope you succeed, Hikigaya-kun."

"If you'll excuse me then, Kōchō-sensei," I nodded at her as I got up from my chair.

I silently bow to her before turning around to exit the door. Great, now I had to come up with a way to find Onizuka-san. And in the next two-and-a-half hours too… Geh, cunning woman. You knew I would have rejected this if you told me about it earlier.

"This is actually a surprise," She commented, her tone kind once more. I stopped momentarily, "You don't seem to be the same, but that may be just my opinion. I wish you luck, Hikigaya-kun."

I glance at her over my shoulder before opening the door to finally leave the room. Things didn't go anywhere near where I expected them to go, but at least it was salvageable nonetheless. Honestly, I was expecting to be on the defensive at every given turn, not recruited in some wild plan to make things better in Sobu.

What a wild world…

Well, at least I have the knowledge of Sakurai-sensei's aid over today's events. Don't know what she'll do, but she's protecting her important asset in me, so I can trust that at the very least. I should count myself lucky in that regard, me apparently being some kind of genius. Although, I can't squander it, I have to find a way to better my academics somehow even if I struggle with Maths and Science. If I don't… I might be tossed into the lion's den and expelled. Meaning, new females I have to keep a tab on along with the ones here.

I shake my head, let's focus on finding Onizuka-san first, shall I? Everything else comes later.

Hah…

8-10

I had only just exited the main building when I saw a certain blonde-headed girl standing on her own in front of the gates. Oh geez, I thought I told you not to worry…

"Miura?" I call out right before I reached her. She was focused on her phone in her hands.

That is, of course, until she heard me.

Leaning her head to the side, she smiles brightly, "You sure took your time, Hikio."

Hehh…? Trying to play it off as if we agreed to this? Sly girl, but I'll have you know Irohasu trained me well in spotting these kinds of actions! Don't think I've forgotten telling you to go on ahead, Fire Queen.

"You should have been home by now," I point out before I accidentally apologized.

She pouts, stepping up to me, "I was, like, totes worried, you know? I just couldn't leave… "

"I told you that there was nothing to worry about, didn't I?"

"Who cares, Hikio!? You should only care that I'm here!" She states, arms folded and cheeks gaining the usual color when she speaks with me.

Both words and actions serve effectively well to make me feel uncomfortable, "…I feel more guilty that you waited instead."

Biting her lip, she adverts her green eyes to the side, "I-I know… but I couldn't help it…"

Ugh, she really is making it hard for me, isn't she? I had to keep myself from apologizing again. Still, I didn't understand it, was this what having sincere feelings did to others?

"…I-is that right?" I asked hesitantly.

"Hikio…" She shyly raises her head and looks at me. "Are you mad…?"

"Not really…" I scratch the back of my head, "Like I said, I feel bad for making you wait for me."

"And I feel bad now for making you feel bad…" She pouted, shoulders visibly drooping.

Urk…! I don't have any more Ultra Potions on me! Stop trying to make me white out from your cuteness, dammit!

Scary, this is really scary. Is Miura just the particularly cute one, or should I expect this from girls like Kasumigaoka and Deviluke later on as well? Well, the latter is forward and becoming coy while the former already licked my finger… In a… dangerous… manner…

Damn it, no! Stop thinking about that already, you idiot!

I take a calming breath in an effort to still my overactive thoughts and grumble out, "That doesn't make sense…"

She giggles to herself, "I don't even know what I'm saying now… I'm just… I dunno…" She fidgets, "I'm just… happy, you know? So stop making so much trouble, already!"

Whoa, easy there woman! I didn't really get it, but, well…

"…Sorry?" I finally gave in and apologized for reasons I didn't quite understand.

She nods to herself, "Sure, I forgive you for being, like, so Hikio!"

"Oi, wait, what's that mean?" I asked in feigned offense. How can I be like something that doesn't exist? Seriously, who the heck is 'Hikio?'

"It means that I forgive Hikio for being Hikio!" She responds with a nod to herself, seemingly pleased. I huffed at that. "So, Hikio. What happened with the Headmaster?

"At the very least, I didn't get in trouble," I shrug easily enough. Weighing how much I should say. No reason to omit anything, but I don't want her dragged into this. Then again, if she finds out I knew about Onizuka-san being hired and didn't tell her…

I shudder to myself. That's a BAD END for sure…

"Was it about that man from the morning?"

"Yeah… That was Onizuka-san…" I scratch my cheek, nervously.

"Onizuka?" She furrowed her brows, "So… you got blamed for that, or what happened?" Miura stepped forward, gazing at me directly in the eyes, "Hikio, tell me already!"

"Sort of…" I back away, hands up in mock surrender, "I got partly blamed, but he kinda helped me out with that stupid Baldie…"

She blinked in surprise, "He helped you?"

"Yeah…" I sigh to myself, remembering what happened, "He got to that idiot before I did anything stupid."

"I knew it. It was, like, he used some kind of fighting move or something on him, right?" She made a scary smile all of a sudden, "Serves that baldie right!"

I grunted ambiguously but say nothing, neither approving nor disapproving the act of violence. The bald bastard pissed me off.

"So, was that it?" Miura asked, seemingly happier.

"Kōchō-sensei wants to hire Onizuka-san because of his decisive personality," I report to her, "She asked for my help."

Her eyes widened, mouth dropping, "Are you for real, Hikio? She wants to hire that guy!?"

"Apparently," I sigh, understanding very well her disbelief, "She liked what she saw from him that time."

"And what do you have to do with this?" I blink as she grabbed my blazer, and I doubt she had realized it since she was so focused on this matter. I felt a bit embarrassed at her sudden intimacy though.

"…She wants me to go find him, since I have… 'ties' who probably heard of him before." I mutter cryptically.

She frowns, visibly so, her mouth contorting, "Wait… are you, like, telling me that you may know people that could find him? That's why the Headmaster called you!?"

I wince at her rise in volume, "Ah, uh, well, there's Harima…"

"Harima!?" She spins around, looking away as she muses about the implications. Then turns back at me, and I can't help tensing, "So, it's like, letting a delinquent find another?"

"Even if he left that behind, Harima's bound to still know something," I shrug back at her.

She blinks at my response, "Oh, sorry… I didn't mean to be rude calling him that. Harima seems nice despite that scary appearance. He took us home the other day, and I was, like, totes surprised."

You and me both, Fire Queen. I never expected someone who looks the way he does to be as considerate as he's seemingly been. Not to mention petty, childish, naive, and innocent. Really, if it wasn't for the fact that he beat up a sports club captain, I would have thought his fashion sense was just twisted and archaic.

"It's fine, he probably doesn't care," I reassured her.

"Still… I gotta get along with him since he's your friend, right Hikio?" She giggles, "Besides, Harima's kinda funny."

I give her a shrug, somewhat agreeing with her. He's a pretty funny fellow, whenever he's not… annoying… me…

Oh, crap, I forgot about him entirely… wait… I'm also forgetting that I don't have much time.

"Hikio?" She tilts her head, apparently noticing my troubled expression. "Something wrong?"

"Harima kept trying to get ahold of me the whole time," I explained before looking at my phone.

Shit… That's a lot of missed calls and messages. Oh, damn. He's still sending them. Dear me, they look angry.

"That's creepy, you know?" The blonde sweat dropped, "What does he want?"

"Well… I agreed to help him with something," I say, wincing at his messages.

Her eyes narrowed dangerously, "Help… with what exactly?"

Should I tell her? Ack, probably not. Harima's mad enough at me not answering him, he might get worse if I blab about his manga. Breach of privacy and all that.

"Er, he's cramming for the exams he's taking. He wanted some pointers," I lie instead.

I'm not really happy about lying to her at least, but I'd rather prevent real trouble from occurring in the long run. With Harima in the equation, anything can happen.

She stares at me blankly, "Are you making fun of me, Hikio?"

Huh?

"Huh?"

"Remember when Harima accompanied Meguri and me after leaving the restaurant?" Miura fixed her book bag as she explained, "Meguri, like, mentioned something about me studying for next week's exams, you know?"

Curious, I nod my head and egg her on.

"Well, Harima commented something about us being, like, very stupid for wasting time on studying," Arms folded, her eyes became blank, "So, isn't it weird that he wants to study now?" She gives a step towards me, not looking pleased, "Hikio… don't lie to me…"

Erk…

"No, well, that was before he was convinced otherwise," I try to recover from her words.

"Oh?" She tilted her head to the side, "So Harima like, suddenly changed his mind about that? That easy?"

"Er, I sort of mentioned how he could impress the girl he likes in order to convince him…"

Miura raises an eyebrow, sporting disbelief, "Does Harima actually has someone he likes? And on top of that, he's willing to study for her!?"

"That's what he keeps saying…" I answer her first question with a shrug before adding, "He's stupid like that."

Miura frowns, "That's… not stupid…" I blink at her sudden change in demeanor, "Maybe he's just willing to do what's necessary for the person he likes…"

I blink at her surprisingly innocent words, but decide not to comment. I don't really want to fall down that rabbit hole…

"Well, anyway, I somehow got roped into helping him out for the rest of the week," I'm quick to deflect the subject, and here's hoping she doesn't notice it.

Miura releases a sigh, "So, whatcha waiting for? He won't stop until you talk to him, right?"

Excuse me, Miura-tan? I was coming up with an excuse in order to sate your curiosity. I know you disapproved what I said about Harima, but that doesn't mean you can ignore the entire conversation, you knoooow?

What the heck I'm doing anyway? I don't have much time!

And in a display of good timing, Harima is calling me once again. I hesitate for a moment, and hold my phone away from my ear as I swipe the answer icon.

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 08 Section: Song 05

---

"OI! HIKIGAYA!" The delinquent's roar practically echoes across the emptying campus. Or at least, it was loud enough to make both Miura and I jump. Ack, I don't want to answer… I send the Fire Queen a silent cry for help through my facial expression. Unfortunately for me, the usually cute matriarch of the school did not show me mercy.

I sigh and reluctantly respond, "Yo…"

"What the hell, asshole! I've been callin' you all day, dammit!"

I don't bother trying to act dumb on the off chance that Miura takes the role of a good conscious and rats me out, "Things happened…"

"Better be somethin' big to not answer me!" He shouts, and I have to keep the phone away from my ear. "Did you forget what you promised, Hikigaya!?"

"I got called into the Headmaster's office after classes ended."

"…You're jokin', right?"

"I'm not, I'm not," I grumbled out, ignoring Miura's silent giggling, "There was a mess I got dragged into during lunch with the Vice Principal, it was because of that."

"Tch, that Cue Ball bastard again?" I blink as he growls, "Tell me you finally kicked his ass!"

Harima knows about him too? Ah, well, if today was any indication, the Baldie mouthing off to me might have been a regular thing. My previous self probably vented about him to the others whenever they met up. And Harima, who probably went through similar judgments, most likely sympathized with 'my' situation and joined the badmouthing.

"Are you trying to get me expelled?" I deadpan. I glance at Miura, who was trying to hold back another set of giggles. Cute.

"Tch, someone has to do it. That old creep deserves a good beatin'!"

"Well, that someone beat me to it…" I drawl sarcastically, "And I almost got blamed for it."

"You kiddin' me, Hikigaya!?"

I sigh to myself, "I'm telling you I'm not. Someone hit him before I made things worse."

"Hoh… was about time!" He exclaimed excitedly and Miura nods along with him. The old baldie may deserve it Miura-tan, but I don't think you should approve that kind of violence, you knooooow? "So who did it, Hikigaya?"

"Some guy who was here for an interview." I answer.

"Heh… I would treat whoever did it to some ramen," Harima comments, as if relaxing… if only a bit. "Whatever, let's hope that guy learns to not mess with you anymore. Anyway, Hikigaya, I'm with Imouto-san already, where the hell are you now?"

"Still in Sobu," I report to the delinquent, "…But I don't think I'll be able to help out today."

"THE HELL, HIKIGAYA!?" I flinch at his sudden holler, "Quit messin' around and get your ass over here! You said you'd give me a hand!"

"I can't," I responded, "I'm stuck doing something else."

"Tch! So much for helpin' me study," Harima growls, "Whatever! Forget the midterms then!"

Miura's silent glare communicates one thing: "Fix this, now."

Scary…

"Wait, Harima. I can't go, but… err… doesn't mean someone else can't."

"Who the hell are you talkin' about?" He almost seethes out. Dear me, he's scary too…

"I can probably get Usui to-"

"NOT THAT BASTARD!" He roars, startling us both again. I pull my phone away from my ear as he starts ranting out about not wanting to work with the 'Pretty Boy.' I'll let him get it out of his system before I try saying anything.

"Now, who's Usui?" Miura deadpans, "Another one of your friends?"

"You can say that," I tell her offhandedly, patiently awaiting for Harima to lose his steam. I bring my phone back to my ear.

"-HOLE'S PROBABLY GONNA BRING UP THE PINK…!" I groan to myself, pulling away again and sparring Miura from overhearing their idiotic bet. Oh my, he's still going… Don't you need to breathe Delinquent-kun? Feh, whatever.

"Harima." I cut him off when I heard him finally take a brief pause. Probably because his vocal cords finally gave out on him…

"Whaddya want!?" He hollered. Guess not…

"You owe me for yesterday," I simply reply. Alluding to me preventing his humiliation in front of the girl he fancies. It cost me a knee to my gut, so there was a debt to be paid. I avoid Miura's questioning gaze.

"…" His line goes silent. It's only his aggressive panting that lets me know that he was still on the other side, plus, I thought I heard someone softly ask 'Senpai?' as well. Must be the younger(?) Tsukamoto who's with him.

"…How do y'know he'll help…?" I hear him softly grunt. Huh, I guess Harima's desperate enough for help that when it's all said and done, he's willing to have Usui around. Even risking being ridiculed after yesterday.

"I'll take care of it, somehow," I sighed, "I'll give you a call afterwards."

"You better do it right now!"

I notice Miura suppressing a giggle… I guess she finds this amusing…

"I will, I will…" I groan in annoyance, sending Miura a small and lax glare after she failed to retain another giggle, "Call you later."

The delinquent starts grumbling something about funny looks he got from Suou all day when I end the call. Oh, right… I was supposed to ask about Onizuka-san… I completely forgot… Feh, I'll call Usui first or else Harima might not talk just to spite me.

As I search for Usui's contact information, Miura leans to me, as if trying to get a look at the screen of my phone, "Hikio? Are you gonna call that Usui friend of yours now?"

"Sorta have to now," I sigh, trying to keep myself from pulling away from the Fire Queen. Instincts are hard to fight… But I know I'll either face an adorable pout or her righteous fury, neither of which were good for my health.

Ah, there it is. Usui Takumi.

…

…Did I really have to call this guy…? Geez… I can't afford to waste more time… I have to do it.

Ugh… I should have asked about Onizuka first…

After a moment of hesitation, I finally send a call to Pretty Boy.

First comes one ring, then another… then another… and… then his voicemail answers…

"He didn't answer?" I hear Miura's voice as I stare at my phone in surprise.

"…" I start scrutinizing Usui's contact information. It never seemed to be easy with this guy. He admitted that he doesn't do much other than stalk his maid if he isn't with the others, which could only mean that he's doing that right now, right? If that's the case, it's a lost cause.

Well, might as well try again before making any assumption. I send another call to the blonde pervert.

Again there are multiple rings before it goes back to voicemail. My eyebrow twitches as I hear the automated voice tell me about Usui's lack of availability again.

I get it now… The bastard's doing it on purpose.

"Maybe he's busy?" My blonde companion tilts her head, "Hikio?"

"He isn't," I growled and send another call.

One ring, two rings, three rings… And just when I thought it would go to voicemail one more time, a familiar sing-songy voice comes from the other side.

"Heehhh… Hikigaya-kun is calling me?" The aggravating tone grates my nerves, as always. "Now this is a surprise~!"

"I'm hanging up," I reactively answer back.

"Eehhh? But that doesn't make any sense, Hikigaya. Weren't you the one calling me?"

"Tch, sorry, I tend to shy away from annoying pests," I mutter snarkily.

"That's cruel, Hikigaya…" I can almost feel his pout. I almost snapped at him again, before realizing that he was purposefully guiding our conversation this way in order to be in control. Crafty bastard, I'll give him that.

"I need a favor," I tell him instead. The proclaimed perverted alien is silent for a moment, probably noting how I escaped his web.

"Eehhh? Really?" The teasing in his voice was heavy, he was tenacious. It almost worked too, given how annoyed I felt before calming myself once again. I idly note Miura's gaze that asked 'Is he always like that?' I sent her a grumpy affirmative in response. She smiled helplessly at me in encouragement. It's much appreciated, Miura-tan.

"I need you to go to Harima's and help him out in my stead," I say outright. There's little need to drag things out.

"Hey now, I firmly recall you being the one who put your foot in your mouth and 'volunteered,'" He playfully points out, "How did I get roped into this?"

"Because things outside of my control prevented me from helping that guy out," I respond flatly, "And I don't want him to give me flak for something that isn't my fault."

"Oh? Did something happen, Hikigaya?" I know it seems like he was asking in concern but the playful tone in his voice seemingly communicated that I was remarkably bad at keeping out of trouble.

Oi, getting dragged into trouble is not the same thing as inviting trouble over. Blame my poor misfortune on this, people love causing trouble when I'm at the epicenter of it.

"Plenty, and it's what is keeping me from helping," I say vaguely. I'll be sure to go into more detail with him later, if he asks.

"Heehhh…" He hums to himself, "And that led you to ask me?"

"You're the only one out of the others I can somewhat regard as reliable."

"Woooow… That almost sounded like a compliment, Hikigaya~" The idiot sing songs.

"Mm," I grunted out, not taking his obvious bait.

"Well… I don't really have anything to do at the moment," I hear the pretty boy respond seriously before going back to his usual teasing voice, "Misa-chan took an early day today and left before I finished helping. She's so cruel~"

People who didn't pay attention would have written off Usui's first point after being exasperated by his annoyingly sing-songy voice. But I recognized the brief tone he used then, it was one I am intimately familiar with after all. Detachment. As if his lack of activity was something he was used to and regarded as normal.

I decide not to call it out. Last thing I need is to detract our conversation, especially with Miura listening in.

"That's fi-"

"Buuuut~!" He suddenly cuts me off, "You'll be in my debt if I help~"

Erk… I really didn't like the sound of that… But sacrifices must be made if I want to avoid pissing off Harima and not getting his help…

"Fine…" I reluctantly accept his proposal.

"Well, if that's all. I'll be heading out to Delinquent-kun's now~!"

I grunt in affirmative, "Sure. Just don't give him too much trouble, nor his partner."

"Hai, hai~ Bye-bye, Hikigaya~!"

I hang up the phone after that. Argh… That guy is so aggravating…

I hear a soft giggle again, noticing Miura's gaze, amusement painted all over it, "That friend of yours is something else."

I couldn't help it, I gave her a humorous scoff in response. "That's one way to put it."

"So, did he agree to help?" Asked the girl as she twirled her hair with a finger.

"Ah, and I'll owe him for it…" I grimaced. I shake my head and start redialing Harima's number.

It isn't even one ring before Harima's voice resonated from my speaker.

"Did'ya get him!?"

"He's on his way now," I confirm.

"YOSH! I might just make the deadline now!" I cringe as his yelling hurts my sensitive ears.

I let him celebrate for a brief moment before calling out to him.

"Oi, Harima," I start, trying to make my voice as serious as possible, "There was something I needed to ask you."

"Huh? Whaddya need?"

"It's about that guy who helped me out with the vice principal," I start, "Apparently he was a pretty well known delinquent, wanted to see if you heard of him."

"Mmm… Well, what's he called?" He asks, a bit of curiosity in his voice.

"Onizuka Eikichi, I heard he was a big de-" I try to explain before getting cut off.

"Are you for real!?" I distance my phone from my already abused ear, wondering what purpose it serves to yell at the devices. All you do is damage ears and your own microphone, Delinquent-kun.

"You do know him then?" I idly ask, rubbing my poor ear.

"Saw him once, but I mostly heard of him," Harima elaborates, his tone indicating his thoughtfulness, "Thing is, that guy's a damn legend. He and some guy called Damna Ryuji founded the feared Oni-Baku. Although that was some time ago. Heard both had retired from that sorta life."

"Oni-Baku?" I repeat slowly.

I hear him tsk from the phone, "Told you once before, dumbass. The Oni-Baku was a two-man gang that took down the biggest gangs in Chiba on their own."

Why would delinquents take down other gangs? Bragging rights? Hah… It doesn't make sense to me… I would love to ask about it some more, but apparently Harima already told me this in the past.

Although, it seems that they inadvertently helped make Chiba peaceful.

Whatever… This shitty world is to blame for the corruption that exists in my precious city in the first place…

"No way!" Miura comments out loud, evidently surprised by the revelation. "Are you telling me that two guys destroyed the biggest gangs within Chiba? Just how strong are they?"

"Oi, who's with you?" Inquires Harima, having apparently heard my companion.

"That was Miura," I relay to him, not having a choice otherwise.

"Yeah? Ah, well, who knows really?" Harima responds easily enough, "I know people who saw them beatin' gangs that vastly outnumbered them. But… just what the hell is that guy in your school anyway? "

"Beats me, but the Headmaster wants him here now. So I have to go look for him." I sigh to myself.

"Wants him for what?"

"Oi, neither of us have time to keep wasting. I'll tell you another time," He makes grunts in annoyance, but the following silence allows me to know he complied, "So, is there any known hangout where I can find him?"

Harima makes a humming sound, "Dunno… but that other dude from Oni-Baku opened a workshop. He fixed my bike two months ago, so if you're lookin' for that tough freak, you could ask him, I guess."

That's not much, but it's more than I had in the first place. And beggars can't be choosers.

"Right, where's that workshop?" I ask.

"Uhh… I don't remember the exact place, but I got his card somewhere…" He starts mumbling something, "The hell is it?" I exchange a look with my blonde companion when he speaks again, "Got it. I'll send you the address, Hikigaya."

"Thanks, I'll check that out."

"Oi, Hikigaya," He suddenly calls, making me blink by the seriousness of his tone, "Whatever the hell you're doing, watch your back and don't do anything stupid."

"That's not really up to me…" I mutter back. I appreciate the concern, but it's not like I search for trouble. It just has a bad habit of finding me anyway.

"Alright, Hikigaya. Call if you need some muscle, la-"

Before he was able to say his goodbyes, a certain voice cuts through the speaker.

"Heehhh… Is that Hikigaya?"

"What the!? Pretty Boy!?"

So fast! I only finished talking to you a few minutes ago, you damn alien! What the hell is it with you and your supernatural timing!?

"I'm hanging up." I state flatly.

"Eehh? That's so mean, Hiki-"

I end the phone call before he finishes. Sorry, Harima, he's your headache now.

"Whoops," I say dryly as I lowered my phone, "My finger slipped."

Giggles erupt from Miura again after that, and I chuckled lightly myself.

Well, turns out that Kōchō-sensei was right, I did have ties who knew about Onizuka. Still, who would have guessed he was some huge figure in the underground world?

I felt my phone vibrate with a message from Harima. Actually, it looked like some other messages (that weren't his) were there too and I failed to realize. Hah… Being known is still weird…

Huh, so that's where it was. It's actually not too far from here, maybe a good twenty minutes away.

"Guess, I know where to start looking now," I start off easily enough, trying to see if the Fire Queen caught my drift, she didn't. "I'll be heading off then."

"You'll be heading off?" She says with a raised eyebrow, "Like, you alone?"

"It's better that way," I try to offer casually.

The blonde woman, as expected, doesn't look willing to comply.

"You're not getting rid of me, Hikio," She states with an endearing pout, "I'm coming too!"

"That's… out of the question," I attempt to sound direct, but I immediately wilted under her determined gaze.

"Hikio, there's no way I'm letting you do this alone, you know?" Hands on her hips, she retorts, her foot tapping repeatedly, "That's out of the question!"

I recoil from her righteous fury, and take a step back. Dear me, Miura is definitely more intimidating once in her Fire Queen mode. I found the chances of dissuading her from coming along to be very low. But I seriously didn't want to drag her into something potentially dangerous. I mean, if Harima of all people is telling me to watch out for myself, surely my task holds risks, right?

I can trust the 'professional' delinquent when it comes to dangerous matters. They're masters of the craft after all.

"…It might be da-" I try to explain to her, but a voice cuts me off.

"Senpai!"

I immediately perked up and turn towards the call of a certain foxy kohai I knew. I recalled that our relationship was bad in this world, and yet I still couldn't help but give her my attention. She wasn't even facing in my direction.

I walked right into that dose of disappointing reality… Damn it…

Isshiki runs past us, as she waved a hand to someone in particular. I follow her steps by sight as she approaches a boy from another school, who by all means was the embodiment of a riajuu. Noticeably good looks —if the glances from other girls were any indication— and a confident, if not outright arrogant, posture to boot. Whoever that guy is, he knows about his superficial advantages.

Doesn't look like he's from here if his different uniform didn't already give it away.

Rather tall, short brown hair and oddly golden eyes are his defining traits, and his uniform was composed of a dark blue blazer, pants of the same color, a white shirt and a red tie. I can't really recognize it, so I guess it's some random school somewhere in Chiba.

Now it seems that Isshiki and whoever that is are close, to a degree worth noting. She reminds me of how she acted with Hayama back in my own reality, if not more so. She giggled and seemed very attentive of what he had to say. Of course it's done in order to ensnare the poor lad.

"That guy came to pick up Isshiki again?" Commented Miura, regarding them as well as every student leaving both Sobu and Sainan.

"You know them?" Without Hayama around to compete over, I didn't think Miura would bother regarding Isshiki's presence.

She shrugs her shoulders, "That girl is a first year I think… but didn't you…?" I narrow my gaze as her voice fades, "N-nevermind! Oh, right. I know Kanie from a Mixer I was dragged to one time."

"Kanie?"

"Kanie Seiya, yeah. He was, like, a child star, you know? I think his stage name back then was Kodama Seiya… dunno really," She explained, cautiously glancing at the pair, "He's rather known in Chiba since he appeared in many commercials," She shrugs her shoulders in disinterest, "He's very popular, but I don't really like him. He's a total douche."

I nearly snort at Miura's bluntness, leave it to her to be honest about people she dislikes. Well, looking at the guy again, I can see what she meant. He had this aura to him that established his self-proclaimed superiority. If he was any closer, his mere presence would probably piss me off.

"Is he still clinging to his past fame or something?" I ask with a small smirk.

Miura giggles, "I guess so."

I watch Isshiki and this Kanie Seiya depart, the sly girl still looking very engaged in their conversation. So, instead of Hayama, she's got her eyes on this guy? Let's just hope that she's not hurt in the long run, considering Miura's description of him. Her tastes however… Way to go my foxy kouhai. Even in this different world, you've showcased that you know how to pick them…

"So, shouldn't we get going, Hikio?" I blink, turning to my blonde classmate.

"R-right…" She already included herself on this, huh…

I didn't like the idea of bringing Miura along to look for a clearly dangerous former delinquent. I had no illusions of being able to protect her from someone who as part of a duo defeated multiple gangs all across Chiba.

Maybe I can use myself as a diversion in order for her to escape…

Either way, it didn't matter that I disapproved, Miura had no intention of leaving me on my own. And no words that I can say will dissuade her from following me, so I decided it's better to have her in my sights rather than her following me around from behind.

Wasting time trying to convince her was not an option either way.

I've heard that this should be a moment that is regarded as flattery because of someone's clear concerns, but I failed to feel such emotion. I was more anxious about her safety than anything else…

8-11

"This is the place, huh?"

We both stand before a shop, the entrance displaying window walls, the sliding door opened. Over it was a large sign, with some red letters that displayed the name 'HONTA', and below it some sort of symbol with some thinner white letters at the side, which could be read as 'WWING'.

"Well, from here, it does seem to be the case. I mean, it has motorcycles inside," I point out dryly, only to look back at Miura puffing her cheeks.

"Hikio, don't tease me or you'll regret it!" She approaches me, leaning so close to me that I was forced to step back.

"S-sorry…" I muttered, averting my gaze. I didn't know what she meant by making me regret it, and I was scared to find out. I already take critical damage from her pouts, something with malevolent intent frankly frightens me.

The worst I've seen from Miura is her sulking and some minor biting words, I don't want to tempt fate and see something worse…

"Alright! Let's go, Hikio."

I watch blankly as she casually enters the shop, as expected of the Fire Queen. She holds no trepidation despite the fact that we're about to meet one of the most feared men in Chiba's Underground. Harima can say that fellow's retired all he wants, but I doubt that would make such a character less dangerous.

"Yeah…" I quickly rush towards my blonde classmate. I don't know if it's because of my own cowardice or because of my worry. Probably a mix of both.

As I enter, I come to see many motorbikes of different designs aligned at the left, on the right, some furniture displaying many types of replacements for vehicles, such as car rims, tires and many other stuff I can't really recognize. Hell, the only knowledge I held about cars was the bare minimum relegated as common sense. Asking if I knew anything else about them would be too much, much less being able to actually maintain them.

Miura stops by a certain motorbike, and I notice someone else by it as I approach. My blonde companion turns to me and points a finger down, to where a man was kneeling by as he was apparently making some adjustments to it.

He notices us and stands on his feet, fully revealing himself and… he wasn't really what I was expecting. He had black hair, and it was long enough to by tied, and his blue eyes glanced between us to behind the glasses he wore. He sported a shirt and jeans.

Seriously, this guy doesn't look like someone who beat several gangs. Maybe we're in the wrong shop, or maybe this is some other employee. Harima did send the name of the guy, Danma Ryuji, so we should simply ask for him.

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 08 Section: Song 06

---

"Mmm? Can I help you?"

Miura took upon herself to speak before I did, "Are you Danma Ryuji?"

Oi, wait, you can't just ask him outright!

I butted in before mistakes are made, "W-what my companion means is if you're the owner of this shop?"

He blinks and nods his head, "Yep, I am, and yeah, this is also my shop. What do you need? Looking to get a bike? Sorry kids, I don't sell to undera-"

Miura cocks an eyebrow, "We didn't come here to buy anything," She folded her arms, sporting a bit of irritation, "We're just looking for some guy. His name is Onizuka Eikichi."

I silently stare at the woman in pure disbelief. Don't you know the concept of caution or self-preservation!? Was this the true power of the Fire Queen!?

"Onizuka?" He blinks in surprise, confirming that he in fact knows him, just like Harima stated. "…What did he do now?"

"A-ah," I clear my throat before Miura starts noticing my sheer nervousness, "Onizuka-san was accepted for a teaching position in our school, but left before they could tell him."

Danma-san lets out a laugh, "Are you serious? Did Eikichi actually get the job? I can't believe it!" He tilts his head, just realizing what I said. "Wait, why did he leave if he was accepted?"

Miura pushes her blonde hair behind her shoulders and responds, "Some stuff happened, and he like, totally left without giving any personal information to call him back."

The man sighs, "That's so much like him…"

"We were told that you might be able to help us find him," I further add.

He raised an eyebrow, arms folded, "Is that so? Who exactly told you I could help?"

"An… acquaintance who recognized Onizuka-san's name and, er, reputation," I slowly admit, "He also said he's a regular here, so he knew about you as well."

His eyes narrowed in suspicion, "I suppose. Well, if that idiot got the job, then let me give him a call. Let's go to my office."

Miura glances at me and we both nod. Danma-san takes us to a door on the left, and were greeted to small room, with many posters about motorbikes, a shelf and a desk with three chairs aligned to it. He picks his cellphone from the desk, and makes the call.

We wait as the phone rang a couple of times, and then the call connects.

"Eikichi, where the hell are you?"

We watch as Danma-san raised an eyebrow, whatever Onizuka is saying must be something he didn't expect.

Miura leans to me and whispers, "This man doesn't look like someone that fought many gangs, dontcha think?"

"At least compared to Onizuka-san," I nodded in agreement.

"Wait, whatcha gonna do about college?" We blink when Danma-san says out loud, and after a moment. "Quit? Then what about teaching?" We exchanged another glance, "Idiot, don't you kno- Eikichi? You there? Oi!"

"What happened?" Asks Miura in curiosity. I also send an inquisitive glance at the man, but I otherwise remain silent.

"Dunno…" He attempts to call again, "Damn it, it's no use. His phone has been turned off. I'm pretty sure that idiot didn't charge it."

Miura shrugs her shoulders, "Well, we can just call him when he turns it on, right?"

"It might be a hassle," He sighs, pocketing his phone, "He was ready to leave Chiba. For some reason he got the stupid idea of becoming a truck driver. He even called himself GDO, Great Driver Onizuka."

What kind of stupid, cheesy name was that? Was he a kid?

Of course, I don't vocalize this in order to not get beat up by Danma-san in Onizuka-san's honor, although I suspect he shared my thoughts, given the blank stare he was sporting.

Now this was a troublesome turn of events. If Onizuka leaves Chiba, the chance of returning to take the job will become very difficult to accomplish. And because I failed, Sakurai-sensei might lose a reason to protect Sobu's best and worst student. Too bad for them, oh, wait, that's me…

What can we do? We can't even contact him…

Miura turned to me, "What are we going to do, Hikio?"

I frown, "I… don't know…" Then I hear a sigh coming from the mechanic. "There's not much time left."

"Geez… this feels like old times already, getting dragged into his problems," Danma-san comments, "C'mon, if we find him before he departs, we may have a chance."

Ugh… How did this become a wild goose chase? I was really tempted to give up and just let bygones be bygones. However, my classmate had different ideas.

"What are we waiting for?" Miura smiles, even seeming excited for these turn of events, "Hikio, let's get a move on! Time is ticking!"

I merely sigh and surrender myself to her whims.

"Haha, such interesting kids," Danma-san smirks, "Then let's take my car."

Miura follows after him, but I remain for a few moments and stare up at the ceiling. Onizuka-san… I might have just preferred working on Harima's manga over this…

"Hikio, come on!" The blonde hollers following behind Danma-san.

I sigh once again, and trudge on.

8-12

"Onizuka? That's the new guy… He left with the boss half an hour ago."

Danma-san frowns at the response of some worker, turning to us, "Well, we tried."

Wait, what? That was it? You involved yourself and dragged us out here only to give up after this first setback? If I managed to remain here (out of fear), then you should at least have ten times my resolve, dammit.

I turn to the worker, "Do you know where they were headed? We need to find him as soon as possible."

Miura and Danma-san blink in shock.

"Hikio? Are you serious?"

"Hold on a minute, why are you being so considerate with him?" The man scratches the back of his head, looking puzzled. "Do you know Eikichi?"

Considerate? I didn't think I came off like that at all. Stubborn, maybe, but surely not considerate. Besides, I'm pretty sure my annoyance was clear on my face. I wasn't doing this for Onizuka-san's sake, although it would have been better socially if that were the case.

"It's not really for him. Our Headmaster said that she would have more reason to help me against the other faculty if Onizuka-san was hired." I finally explain with a sigh, "I'm looking out for myself, Onizuka-san just reaps the benefits."

Miura doesn't seem very pleased with my answer. Wait, I thought you didn't like him? However Danma-san stares at me before breaking into laughter, "Hahaha! That makes sense, who would like such an idiotic teacher anyway? But I'm sure there's a good reason why that school would want him."

"The Headmaster saw something in him, she claims," I offer the man with a shrug, "And… I do hold some respect for him."

"Hikio?" Miura looks at me in surprise.

I close my eyes for a few seconds before gazing at him seriously, "So, can you help, Danma-san?"

The man chuckled, "Well, if we came all the way here, then sure, why not?"

8-13

I feel a bit nervous. No that's not right, I'm actually very frightened right now…

It could be the fact that we're back in the vehicle driven by a retired 'gang slayer,' or maybe it's because that very same man is driving the car at a speed that would put us in mortal danger should he make any minor mistake… I honestly think it may be a bit of both.

I really didn't know where we were heading, but if the amount of time that had passed since we started the chase was anything to go by, I could tell that we were reaching the borders of Chiba City as we followed the Higashi-Kantō Expressway.

I think Onizuka-san was heading to either Tokyo or Narita… we're too damn far away! Go back to my beloved Chiba, dammit! Wait, Damna-san!? Why are you using your phone while driving!? What if that causes a crash!?

I should have just let you quit, Onizuka-san! You're too much trouble, dammit!

"Well," Damna lowered his phone, "It still sends me to voicemail… I guess we won't be reaching him by phone."

Miura glares at him, "Shouldn't you be, like, focusing on driving!? I don't want to die, y'know!?"

Thank you, Miura-tan, for voicing my concerns.

The man with tied hair chuckles, "Neither do I, but I'm quite the driver, just so you two know."

He suddenly moves the car to the left side of the track, passing past three vehicles when we suddenly see a large truck, a logo we recognized immediately being displayed on the back doors of the container. It belonged to the transport business Onizuka-san was working for… which means… that we found him!

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 08 Section: Song 07

---

"That's the truck!" Miura exclaims, "We have to pass it!"

We do? When did we decide that!? Are we apart of an action movie or something!?

Danma-san stepped on the pedal, "Hell yeah, we will! Hold on tight!"

We don't! We really don't have to! Uwaaah!

I press my body back in my seat, stiffening at the sudden increase of speed. Seriously! If we crash, there's no way any of us will make it through!

In a bold and quick maneuver, Danma-san manages to get past two vans as we finally reaches the truck. He accelerates enough for us to be in sight of whoever was driving the large vehicle. As we expected, there was Onizuka-san, wearing a white bandana, a blue sleeveless shirt, and orange glasses. He seriously looks a truck driver now!

So fast! You gave up on your aspirations as a teacher so quickly!

Miura doesn't waste a moment and pulls her head through the window. I tense as she seems to muster all her breath, when she suddenly shouts, "STOP THE TRUCK!"

I'm fairly sure that everyone in a 5km radius would have heard and followed through on the royal decree if the wind hadn't hindered her voice. Hell, I think Danma-san almost slammed on the brakes just now.

Onizuka turns to us, eyes widening upon recognizing us. Obviously, I can't hear the man from here, but I read his lips well enough, "What the!?"

Miura glares at the poor man with all her might and shouts once more, "STOP. THE. TRUCK. NOW!"

Uwah… Was it just because of the roaring wind that I felt like the Fire Queen's voice sounded distorted?

Onizuka-san visibly blanches and nods repeatedly. His own voice is unable to be heard, but I'm sure he's begging for mercy and forgiveness. I know I would be if I were in his position. Wah… This makes me so glad that she's on my side…

Miura reenters the car as if she didn't just terrify half the highway just now. She turns to me with a girlish giggle and coyly twirls one of her drills of hair. What the hell!? How did you go from demonic to adorable so quickly!?

I gawked at her for a moment before sending her an unsure smile of my own. I briefly glance back at Danma-san who met my gaze with a rather surprised one of his own. Bet he didn't expect Miura's power level to be so high… although he chuckled in amusement soon after.

Onizuka-san parks the truck once there's a place for him to do so, Danma-san parking right behind it. The blonde man gets down from the truck, together with some trembling elderly man that also shared that truck driver attire. Sorry old timer, you were unfairly subjected to my classmate's wrath because of the troublesome former teacher…

"What the heck is all this?" He asks, making an annoyed expression, "Ryuji? What's going on?"

Damna-san scratches the back of his head, and shrugs his shoulders, "I can't really say. These kiddos here wanted to find you, that's all."

The man in question blinks and turns to me, "The heck are you doing here, Hikigaya?" He glances at the blonde at my side, "You even brought your girlfriend with you, huh?"

Miura flushed crimson while I shifted uncomfortably, glaring at him for spilling such stupidities. I already told him things weren't like that, dammit! He did it on purpose, didn't he?

"We!" Miura glances at me, her eyes darting nervously, "W-we… are, like…" It was as if she was having a hard time trying to find the word, "Just really good f-friends!"

I almost cringe at her using that dreaded word, but at least it's better than having our relationship being assumed as something worse. If she hadn't told me that she was fine with me not answering her feelings yet, I would have been scared that she would get carried away and act the part. And I'd be too intimidated by the Fire Queen to even contemplate correcting her.

I force myself to respond, "Yeah…"

"Right, right kiddos," Hand on his hips, he releases a sigh. "So, what is it?"

Miura walks up to him, ignoring the third man who was asking Onizuka-san about our intervention, "We, like, came here for you, y'know? It's not like we want to be here or anything."

I know what one would think when overhearing my classmate's words, especially considering the many anime aspects I've come across lately. Hell, if this were one of my trashy novels, my companion's last line would have come off as 100% tsundere-ish. But make no mistake, she meant what she said without a trace of bashfulness. There was no archetype being met here. Seriously, I have a feeling that she barely kept herself from bluntly asking him: "Hah? Are you stupid?"

I'm glad she had enough restraint on herself this time.

"Hehehe…" Onizuka smiled nervously, "I appreciate it, Ojou-chan, but what's the deal?" The blond scratched the back of his head, and it's clear he caught on her intent.

Danma-san punches his arm, "Idiot! You're really abandoning your dream so easily? Wasn't teaching in high schools all you wanted to do?"

"I'm gonna quit," He responded easily.

"Still with that? What about teaching?"

Onizuka-san smiled, but I could still detect a bit of discouragement on his expression despite his statement, "It's okay. I'm done." His eyes became distant as he looked to the side, "It's not for me. I'm not suited for teaching."

Well, that might be the case actually. Sakurai-sensei did say that he was not eligible to actually teach at our school, but is more useful for ethical reasons. I'm still not sure I fully understand, but it has nothing to do with me. No wait, he's going to be my homeroom teacher, it has everything to do with me…

"So that's it? You quit?" Damna-san seems to be holding himself from punching him, but he manages to relax. "Did you think this through?"

"Of course I did, Ryuji!" Rubbing his temples, Onizuka-san asked. "Just tell me why are you here."

I release a sigh, "We came to tell you that Sobu High is willing to hire you," And state frankly, not wanting to beat around the bush. There's no way I'll prolong this after the long trip we had to make to catch up to an idiot that doesn't answer his phone.

Onizuka-san stared at us with a blank expression, "Oi, you guys came all the way here to mess with me, or what? It's not funny! Now I'm GDO! Great Drive Oni-"

"Whatever, just get your ass back there, Eikichi," Damna-san states with a roll of his eyes, "You didn't answer your phone, so we had to tail your ass all the way here! These kids aren't joking, you know?"

Miura glared at the blonde idiot, "Of course we aren't! Are you, like, so stupid to think we'd do all this just to make a joke?"

Ack, she actually said it…

Onizuka-san points a finger at himself, "Wait… they really want to hire… me?"

"Who knows why, but yeah," Miura shrugs her shoulders. "They totally want you there."

It's… strange how we reached this point after that woman told me that Onizuka-san was needed in Sobu, something I have yet to understand, but the chairwoman firmly believed that a man like him would be able to solve the problems plaguing our school… Well, to be honest, that bald man did deserve that suplex, so I guess that might have earned Onizuka-san some points… at least in my book.

Wait… that face… Onizuka-san's face is… funny… it shows utter shock, but to a very exaggerated degree. I guess he didn't see that one coming, eh?

All of a sudden, Onizuka fiercely gazed at me, and I tried stepping back but he grabbed my shoulders, and began shaking me, "You're completely sure!? How do you know this!?"

"The Chairwoman told me as much," I growl out trying and failing to escape from his grip. Damn this world for the amount of people whose vice grips I can't break out of!

Danma-san chuckles, stepping before him with a mocking face, "It's a pity." He glances at his watch, "It's 5:54 already, and they said that you'll only be hired if you could get there by 6:30. Too bad we're so far away that you won't make it, heh? All this travel was a waste of time."

It was easy to detect the sarcasm in his voice, but I still failed to see the purpose of provoking Onizuka-san. He was correct though. Considering where we were, it'd take him like an hour and a half to make it back to Sobu.

Miura facepalms, "Yeah… this chase was, like, all for nothing."

Ryuji patted Onizuka's shoulder with a cocky smile, "I suppose you should just do your best where you are now. As GDO."

However, those words seemed to fall on deaf ears as the blonde guy still appeared to be shocked by these turn of events. He gave some slow steps away from us, his back arched as if he was an old man.

I turn to his friend with my eyes narrowed, "Oi. That wasn't exactly the speech to get him motivated to return, you know? Although, it is late."

"Then… this is it? We failed, Hikio…" Miura commented, and pursed her lips.

"Heh… he's not the kind of guy who gives up so easily," Danma-san snickers, glancing at the apparently defeated man. "He makes the impossible possible… that's the kind of guy he is…" He closes his eyes, "No matter what…" Arms folded, he approaches him, "Isn't that right, Eikichi?" He calls out.

What is it with this shonen-esque speech? Seriously, it sounds like one of those moments before the character in question reveals he's been wearing weighted clothing throughout a fight. Oi, and what the hell is he muttering to himself over there?

Perfect, I'm going to be associated with more weirdos now…

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 08 Section: Song 08

---

"I can. I can. I can," I blink, now managing to make up his words. "I can. I can. I can!" Each time he repeats the same, I could hear his voice raising, enthusiasm becoming clear with each repetition. "I can! I can! I can!" He suddenly stands erect, looking at the sky, "I CAN!" And shouts at the top of his lungs.

To our surprise, he runs past us, and to Danma-san's vehicle. Of course, the owner of the car looks at him in disbelief, "Oi, Eikichi! Don't you dare! Use the damn truck!"

But he's flawlessly ignored as he entered the car. Then, our eyes collide, his resolve shone in his eyes, and I couldn't help being impressed, "Hikigaya," He started with a firm tone. "Let's go!"

"Huh?" The entire scene left me dumbfounded, it seems as if Onizuka-san had a knack for that. Stop it.

Miura pushes me from my back, "Hikio! Don't just stand there! Let's go!"

"R-right…" I stuttered out, and find myself nearing the car. I notice Miura right behind me and I come to a stop. There was no way I'll let Miura get on the car with Onizuka-san as the driver. I'd never do so myself, but I'm stuck neck deep in this matter, so I have no other choice. Miura on the other hand…

"Hikio?" She blinks as I turn to her with the most serious face I could pull up.

"I… think I should go on my own this time," I slowly tell her, bracing myself for the coming fire.

"HAH!? We don't have time for this, Hikio!" She growled, "Get a move on!"

"No, seriously, I'll go by myself. I'll see you tomorrow." I attempt to sound stern.

And when she's about to voice her opinion, Danma-san clears his throat, "You heard your boyfriend, Ojou-san."

The blonde flushes red, every sign of opposition gone in few seconds. She drops her gaze, and starts fidgeting, "W-we're not l-like that… y-yet…"

I force myself to suppress the coming embarrassment at Danma-san's comment, and Miura-tan's cute reaction, and focus on the matter at hand. This was my chance. Her defenses were down and I could keep her away from any future peril.

I get inside the car on the passenger seat, and close the door as Danma-san approaches the driver's window, "Eikichi! You better not do anything to my car or I'll kick your ass all the way to hell!"

Onizuka smirks and starts the vehicle, "Ryuji! I can be a teacher…" His hands gripped the steering wheel tightly, "I WILL BE A TEACHER!"

And right then and there, the car moves… at much too high of speeds! I jerked back in my seat as the crazy man gives a wild turn, I felt as if my body almost flew out of the window. I give the blonde driver a glare, and to my dismay, the look on his face tells me this trip through hell was just starting.

In the distant future, I'd like to think that the loud high-pitched noise that pierced the air as Onizuka-san pulled off towards Sobu like a madman was the screeching of the tires and not my screaming voice.

8-14

I'm alive… I'm alive… I… I… I made it…

I honestly thought I was going to die the entire ride… No… I might still die right now because of the adrenaline and fear coursing through my body. I feel my heart might just explode…

I suck in air as if I held my breath for ten minutes, and chances are, I may have actually done so… Ugh… Now I feel sick too… Luckily for me, the fact that I didn't eat my lunch helped prevent any actual regurgitation. I still had to hold off from dry-heaving though.

But I made it, that's the important thing. I survived and I vow to never enter a car being driven by either Onizuka-san nor Danma-san ever again. Urgh… just recalling what transpired is making me feel faint again. I made a good decision in not bringing Miura…

Not only had the speed been my main worry but the fact that this crazy man had continuously moved between the tracks of the road, avoiding oncoming vehicles from the opposite direction by the narrowest of margins. The sides of the Danma-san's vehicle were badly damaged as he had grazed the walls more than once, and what was worse, we were now wanted criminals!

At some point when I was doing my best to not just throw myself out of the car, the police had started to chase after us for breaking who the heck knows how many traffic rules, and instead of stopping, Onizuka only increased his already insane speed!

Only Deus Ex knows how he managed to lose them… maybe it was when he unexpectedly stormed through that barricade the authorities set up for us!

Hah… Calm down Hachiman… Your heart has already suffered much… There's no need to extend the pain…

I regain my senses when Onizuka leaves the car as fast as if there was no door on the car… oh yeah, there wasn't a door on the driver side actually. Well, it seems that at some point it may have just fallen off from the continued impacts this poor car received… Who knows really? I don't really want to think about it.

I stumble on my way out —my legs feel like jelly after the prior unrelenting chaos— supporting myself on the car's hood to keep myself standing. Little by little, my mind begins to work properly, and I realize that now I'll most likely be held as an accomplice of that insane guy through the mean of association… I have to stop from crying because of that…

I follow Onizuka-san as he rushes down the street. At least he parked a bit away from Sobu, not that all the crimes he committed (dragging me with him) won't be found and traced back to us anyway, but I'd like to think there's the minor chance of me saving myself from a possible reclusive life behind bars…

Would that be so bad though…? Maybe I will finally be able to live peacefully then?

Ack, what the heck am I saying? My head's still scrambled from earlier.

Upon reaching the main entrance of Sobu, I watch as the blonde climbs the closed gate. Huh… it's just three minutes past the limit, but the school is closed… despite the wild travel, we still didn't make it in time.

The fact that he added trespassing to his large list of felonies seems so minor after everything else.

I stand before the gate, only to blink, seeing a small opening. Wait… so it wasn't closed after all. Did that guy did not see it? He probably was too excited to even bother, I guess.

With one last glance around, hearing sirens in the distance, I push it open, but only enough for my body to be able to fit in. Inside, I glanced around, spotting Onizuka slamming into the entrance door to the main building. It was almost comical how he did so, but the gravity of the situation kept me from finding amusement in it.

So that's as far as Onizuka Eikichi will come then. It's too late.

"Answer me! Anyone!" I hear him shout as I somberly approach him.

Eventually he stops and sits on the ground. I watch him with a neutral expression, before releasing a sigh, one I've been holding since I left the vehicle. I decide to join him and sit at his side, but I say nothing. I don't think there's anything left to be said at this point.

We stare at the darkening sky, few stars already adorning the dark blue horizon, the moon being the main source of light on our surroundings, as little as it was.

Onizuka-san's voice suddenly pipes up, "I guess we didn't make it in time."

"…" I remain silent and give him my attention.

And he continued, "I was prepared to get arrested for speeding… Guess I know where I'll end up, huh?"

"Thanks for dragging me down with you," I sarcastically quip, but too tired to put any bite into it. Ah, Komachi, your Gomi-chan is going to jail soon…

"Nah, don't worry kid. I'll take the blame," He chuckles, "Still, I appreciate what you guys did."

I only grunt in acknowledgment. He doesn't need to know that I was acting in self-interest.

The sound of steps come to our earshot, and we turn to the left to see a figure a meter away. I instantly recognized the person as Sobu's Headmaster, Sakurai Ryoko-sensei.

So she waited, huh? Well, it's not that surprising since she was dead set on hiring this guy. Now, Onizuka-san seems terribly confused, and I can't tell if its because there was still someone in school, or the fact that he apparently made it in time.

"Onizuka-kun," She began, their eyes meeting. Onizuka-san blinked several times but she spoke again before he could, approaching us, "I was waiting for you. Let's start the interview."

She shot me a glance, apparently pleased as she slightly nodded her head, which of course, went completely unnoticed by the blonde man. He had other matters on his head, it seemed.

In any case, I responded to her in a similar way.

Then Onizuka-san, finally out of his stupor, voiced his confusion, "You? That obaa-chan from the cafeteria…?"

The sound of sirens approaching could be heard, and I tensed in worry. This was too good to be true, the cops will be here in any second, and well, Onizuka-san will get arrested if he chooses to take the blame. He drove like an insane lunatic so it's to be expected that they find him. Maybe he should have left the car in a hidden spot or something…

"Please follow me," Said the woman, and I turn to see them both going inside, the door already open.

They ignored the sirens completely, well, Onizuka-san did. Oi, oi… Did you already forget what you just did? Don't tell me I'll be left here to take the blame and-

I blink as the police cars pass by the street in front of the gate of Sobu, not stopping until their sirens became nothing but a distant echo. To say that I was surprised by that turn of events was an understatement.

I clearly recall that we left the destroyed car on the road, even if it was a block away. The police should have found it on the way here… What the heck just happened?

"Hikigaya-kun?" I blink at the woman's voice, coming from inside the school, "You should come inside as well."

I narrow my gaze at that, wondering why she would want me inside. Didn't I complete my end of the bargain? What else does she want?

I warily glance back out through the gate. Were things really okay now?

I pinch the bridge of my nose before saying a loud enough, "Coming!" And set foot inside, closing the door behind me. I am quick with my steps in order to catch up with them, until we finally reach the corridor where her office was located.

Onizuka-san had been silent the entire time, which must be because he was trying to understand what was going on. Can't blame the guy though, these are very strange circumstances.

His voice suddenly echoed across the corridor, "Why are you…?" His voice clearly displayed his befuddlement.

"I knew you would make it in time, Onizuka-kun," She replied stopping just by her office's door.

I feel a sudden surge of nausea, recalling how he managed to do so. Seriously…

With a hand under his chin, the blonde man made a thoughtful expression, as if trying to find an answer. When he reaches an apparent conclusion, he slams a fist against his palm. I'm 100% that whatever he thought is mistaken. I'd bet all my life savings on it.

"I got it! Hikigaya said it was for a teaching position," He threw a wry glance my way. Wait… what the heck is he thinking now? "But it's actually for a cafeteria clerk position." He chuckled, not mad despite that he thought that I got it all wrong. He facepalmed, resting the other hand on his hip. "This is a practical joke, hehe!"

Alright… how stupid was this guy?

Was he really still thinking that she only worked in the cafeteria? Even if she presented herself as it in the morning, we're standing before her office! Look! The plate with her name is just over there! And she wouldn't have access to this place if she was a mere clerk!

And as she opens the door, walking inside, he finally gets a look at the plate, realization hitting him like a bucket of cold water. I'm glad I didn't have to point out his idiocy, or else, I would have ended up becoming the tsukkomi of the group!

"This place is…?" He steps inside, the lights inside illuminating his perplexed face, "You mean… wait!"

Sakurai Ryoko-sensei finally sits by her desk, hand intertwined over the desk's surface, "Welcome to Sobu High School. I'm Sakurai Ryoko, the headmaster of the school board."

Onizuka makes another of those exaggerated expressions, as he steps closer to her desk, "The H-Headmaster!? But I saw you in the student store!"

The woman smiles as I finally enter the office, leaning on the wall right beside the door. I suppose he didn't see that one coming… despite being so obvious already…

"That's actually my hobby," She responds casually, her brown eyes somewhat sharp. "Sometimes I do that to simply observe our students."

Grabbing his head in utter shock, Onizuka-san seems close to losing it as he starts yelling, "Oh no! No way! That's not fair!"

Yet, despite his outburst, the woman remained calm as she picked up some papers from her desk, apparently reading them with interest, "You seem to have a lot in your curriculum."

Onizuka-san suddenly stands straight, so tense and nervous that it's painful to look at. He looked like a statue. I can only imagine that he's not proud of what that paper details.

And as silence sets in, the woman carefully reads his curriculum. It's probably just for courtesy's sake since she already said he was under-qualified, and I agree that Onizuka-san may have good intentions for the students, but is he knowledgeable enough to pass by the bare minimum? I'd be lying if I said that I didn't want to take a peek at those papers.

And after a minute…

"Okay! You're hired!" She suddenly says, and I had to raise an eyebrow at that.

Wait… was that really okay? I know this was her entire plan, but did she even read the first page at least? Oh, wait… She probably already read it earlier… Right, right… She could have made it more believable though, right?

"Huh?" Onizuka blinks, further puzzled.

The woman opens a drawer on her desk, and seems to be searching for something, "You'll need to read the school brochure and the teacher's manual." She leaves those papers before him to pick, and nods at him.

Hiring someone is that easy?

"Er… well… Ma'am?" Onizuka-san begins, and I'm surprised as his voice is coated with uncertainty.

"What is it?"

He frowns, "Are you sure? You didn't take much time to decide…"

She leans back on her chair, "Is that strange?"

Of course it is! And it says something if even someone like Onizuka-san can tell something's off, you knooooow?

The blonde man seems insecure now, "I've just never passed anything like this on the first try."

Well, technically speaking, you didn't this time either as you weren't hired earlier, you knooooow?

The woman smiled kindly, "Be more confident about yourself, Onizuka-kun!" His eyes widen at that, and her face suddenly becomes serious. "But you need to be prepared." She stands from the chair, crossing her hands behind her back as she looks through the large window, "Our school is considered prestigious, but we're dealing with many internal problems. Delinquency and bullying are some of the few. Each year it gets worse, and it's getting beyond my control."

I silently scoff to myself, it's still hard to believe that Sobu has so many issues plaguing it. Even if it's in this crappy new world, it was unexpected. Before, it only had the one issue that was mostly ignored by the entire campus.

Wait, why was I automatically the issue!?

"Onizuka-kun," The woman turned to us, but her eyes were directed at the blonde guy. "What I want from you is what you showed us in the morning. The german suplex. That strength!"

I blink at that, and while I wouldn't mind it, I had to ask in incredulity, "You want him to beat up Kyōtō-sensei again?"

And before I can blink, Onizuka-san is already on the floor and bridged onto his head. Is he german suplexing an invisible opponent? Hah! If that's all you can do, Onizuka-san, then you stand no chance against Yoshihiko!

The woman chuckled at my question and shakes her head, "No, but it would be amusing, I admit." Her attention returns to Onizuka, "That bridge is very reminiscent of Karl Gotch-sama's."

"He's the God of Wrestling, hehe!" Onizuka grins.

She nodded at that, "Definitely."

"'The King' has long made Gotch-sama proud as his student!" Onizuka-san added.

Huh… What's with all these wrestling references? I know it I started but…

The woman chuckles again, "I agree." Her eyes then took a serious light, focused on the blonde. "In any case, I believe you're the only one capable of resolving our problems in the most simplest way." She bowed slightly, now looking stoic. "So as headmaster of the board, I'm asking you to become a teacher in our school, Onizuka-kun, no… Onizuka-sensei."

Whatever insecurity that plagued the blonde man before, was now gone, "Leave it to me." He jumped back to his feet with no effort, which I had to say, looked impressive. Now he seemed confident, raising a bailed fist. "I will perform the perfect german suplex here," He raised an arm, resting a hand over his forearm. "I, Onizuka Eikichi, 22 years old, will do it!"

No wait, I don't think she actually wants you to attack the rest of the faculty. And why do you keep mentioning your deceptively young age? The girls you ogle are still mostly underaged, dammit.

"It's settled then! I look forward to seeing Sobu return to its former glory."

Onizuka started to laugh heartily, and I could only sigh in resignation.

Seems as if Sakurai-sensei got what she wanted. I still wonder how Onizuka-san, er, sensei, is supposed to be the solution to everything, but it's out of my hands. Oh damn, I just realized that this guy's going to be my homeroom teacher for the next few months as Hiratsuka-sensei recovers. Great, he might start drooling over Miura during class.

Hopefully Totsuka's presence will be able to purify his corrupted soul and make him a model teacher. Well, whatever… I'll have to deal with it.

Geez… whether I like it or not, Onizuka-sensei was born today.

8-15

"We did it, Hikigaya! Hehehe!"

I look blandly at the smirking blond as we leave the main building.

Excuse me, Onizuka-sensei? What exactly do you mean by 'we'? I'm the one who was tasked with getting you, Sakurai-sensei was the one who was going to hire you anyway, Miura and Danma-san were there to help out. All you did was overcomplicate things by running away and nearly getting us arrested.

Wait a minute… That issue isn't over. Well, we weren't identified yet but the authorities are probably still looking for us.

"Your help was appreciated, Sensei," I grumbled sarcastically. Now that my nausea has relaxed, I'm getting hungry again…

"No worries, Hikigaya. You can count on me," He raises a thumbs up, and I had to deadpan.

'Pardon me if I don't hold my breath,' Is what I wanted to tell him, but instead I forgo my sharp tongue.

"I'll keep that in mind."

"So it seems that I'll be living here from tomorrow on. Phew! Hahaha! How lucky for me to also get a free place to stay."

I roll my eyes, "Very…"

Prior to dismissing the two of us, Onizuka-sensei complained about his lack of living arrangements. Apparently he had a place in mind but then ditched it after giving up on his teaching dream. Impulsive and reckless, I know, but this is the same guy who suddenly decided to become a trucker in the same day.

I'm not sure if it was wise, but Sakurai-sensei offered him residence in an empty classroom in the second building on the condition that he didn't make a mess. It goes without saying that I didn't bother questioning how that would even work for the preservation of my sanity. Still, I released a sigh of relief upon realizing that his room wasn't too close to where the Service Club met.

Having this lecherous guy in close proximity to Yukinoshita's flat chest and Yuigahama's Yuigahamas didn't sit right by me. The latter will probably have troubles from him starting tomorrow.

"Alright, let me treat you to some ramen, I know just the pl-"

"Why do you look so confident?"

We both turn to the left when…

*Pop* *Pap*

I blink in surprise as confetti is suddenly shot at us, that's before I catch sight of Miura and Ryuji-san holding some expensed party poppers.

"Congratulations for becoming a teacher! Hurray!" Ryuji-san exclaims, patting his back.

While my blonde classmate doesn't share in the other man's enthusiasm, she still states, "Yeah, yeah. Like, congrats, I guess."

"You two came all the way here too?" Onizuka asks, startled as I am.

"Of course we did, Eikichi!" The bespectacled man grins, "I knew you'd make it in time, so we have to celebrate!" He looks around, "Where's my car anyway?"

Onizuka-sensei's eyes widen, probably recalling the fate of that poor vehicle.

"You have my deepest condolences, Danma-san," I say vaguely, and give a mock prayer for his dead car.

Onizuka-sensei starts sweating profusely as his friend's cheerful demeanour abruptly evaporates, a glare now falling mercilessly on him. He honestly deserves it in my opinion, "What does he mean by that? Where. Is. My. Car?"

Oh dear, now I see what made him one of the two most dangerous delinquents. Danma-san looks very scary… Maybe it was too soon to say that Onizuka-sensei would teach in Sobu… for all I know, he's going to die now.

Scratching the back of his head and laughing nervously, he takes Danma-san back to where he 'parked' the vehicle, Miura and I following behind.

She leans towards me, "Hikio, what happened?"

"…You'll see soon enough." I respond with a crooked smile.

It takes us only two minutes to reach the spot where we left… the car? What the…?

"There's nothing here, idiot!" Ryuji-san shouts in indignation. "Where's my fucking car!?"

"I swear I left it there!" Onizuka-sensei turns to me, "Isn't that right?"

I was horribly disoriented when I stumbled out of the deathtrap so I couldn't be asked if I remembered where it came to a stop. Because of this, I send a helpless shrug that displayed my own uncertainty.

Ryuji-san grabs his shirt and begins to shake him wildly, "You idiot! Find my damn car!"

Miura starts to giggle in amusement at the scene, but I find myself unable to join her as the implications of this occurrence are in fact worrisome. I look around and I manage to recognize some of the buildings… I think we left it here… right?

I quickly observed around once more, and I can't see any sign of Danma-san's vehicle. Wait, seriously, where was it? It's like it was moved or something… Then who moved it? It's a nearly demolished car, so how could anyone even move it? Or why would someone even bother with a destroyed car anyway? I highly doubt someone would steal it; so then, what happened to it?

"I'm sure it will appear soon, Ryuji!" Onizuka tries to placate him to no avail.

"Idiot, I put my life into that car!" He starts scratching his head like a mad man, "What the hell was I thinking when I let you drive it!? Damn it!"

Onizuka-sensei pats his back tentatively, forcing a smile, "D-don't worry! I'll pay you back, man."

"With a teacher's salary!?"

Danma-san suddenly spins around and delivers a mighty fist towards the blonde's unsuspecting face, so fast that I could barely see it. Onizuka-sensei is blasted off to crash into a wall, cracks spreading on its surface… Just how the heck did that happen?

Onizuka-sensei stands on his feet, rubbing his head, blood trailing down his forehead and points a finger at his friend, "You bastard! You see how much blood I'm losing?! This should obviously reduce the cost of your shitty car!"

And how the heck is he not dead!? Wait… That's how you want to get out of this problem!? What kind of teacher are we going to have in Sobu!? I know I have already asked myself that many times in the course of the day, heck, I made such a thing possible but… really?

And between their shouts and nonsense, I blink, sensing someone pulling up my blazer.

"Hikio… it's late…" I turn to see a flushed Miura-tan, a sight that almost gives me a heart attack! I must endure… "You'll take responsibility, right?" I freeze as she averts her eyes, her lips pursed, "Like…" I can't help gawking at such an adorable sight, "You'll take me home… right?"

It's too late to get the bus, and I don't have a reliable vehicle in my possession, but the gentleman code demands I comply at her request. I wouldn't be able to look at Mugiwara's Black Leg should I come to fail!

But… taking a cab with her would mean that would be sitting together for the time it takes her home… I bet a Sanji-san would just die of a nosebleed…

I clear my throat before responding, "Right…" She beams at me, and my eyes wander to the side, "We're done here. Let's just let them resolve their issues."

I turn around, Miura awkwardly close at my side, "Sure, Hikio. Let's go! Teehee!"

She grasped my arm, pulling me as both of us began to walk away, when a sudden, "See ya tomorrow kiddos, and thanks!" come from behind, making us stop in our tracks.

Miura turns around and waves at them with a shrug, but for my case, I release a sigh before resuming my steps. In the end, I only did this for my own benefit, so I can't accept his gratitude.

Such is the way life works after all.

8-16

Things after that passed by deceptively quickly.

I imagined it would have marked the end for my poor heart, sharing a cab with Miura that is. Can't say it hadn't been a really embarrassing experience since she sat very close to me in the backseat, but thankfully, we simply talked about Onizuka-sensei and how would things would go on in Sobu, with no mention of any topic regarding… us…

I actually felt at ease and relaxed for some reason once she began to make comments about the eventful day we had. One thing I hadn't expected though was for her to actually give me a hug before leaving the cab once we reached her home.

I couldn't really have done anything since she did so out of nowhere, and I was… unprepared… to put it lightly. Through the rare grace of the RomCom Gods, I didn't humiliate myself by squealing or something.

Then back at home, not much happened. My mother questioned my late arrival, Belldandy offered to give me food, with Deviluke's (admittedly more chaste) flirtations coming here and there. One thing worth mentioning though was that Komachi seemed more relaxed around me, if only slightly. I guess we'll have to go step by step, won't we?

I make sure to answer every email I received from my new acquaintances; Suou really did intend to have me for her confidant (whatever that meant). She didn't hesitate about relaying her whole day to me, and for some reason it didn't bother me as much as it should have.

Harima also messaged me, saying that that he managed to finish his manga with time to spare with the help of the pretty boy, although he still mentioned not wanting to work with him ever again. Well, it would be less believable if Usui did have a pleasant visit with him being… well, him.

Gasai also made true of her promise to call me back after this morning's previous call. It was a tense few moments as I carefully picked and chose the appropriate response in order to not set her off. I made sure not to say anything about my harrowing experiences as passenger behind both Danma-san and Onizuka-sensei's drivings.

Talking to this girl was like engaging in bomb disposal like in the movies. One wrong move and I could set everything off.

Finally, I retired to get my well-deserved sleep, but not before giving Kasukigaoka's story a half hour or so of my time before hitting the sack.

It had been a peaceful night. I wasn't even summoned to the Cathedral of Causality, so I simply awoke the next morning, sadly at 5 a.m. once again since my body no longer required eight hours of sleep. And like yesterday, I took another long, relaxing bath, then read some more pages of Metronome in Love in order to kill some more time and clear my mind before going to have breakfast.

Hindsight scolded me for not investigating my room again.

My mother and the geezer (who were just leaving) were surprised to see me up so early, but I simply told them I had been falling asleep earlier these days, so I wasn't questioned any further. Geez… shouldn't they be amazed that I now seem more responsible, getting up and leaving to school earlier? You two do remember that I'm your son, right? Not just a freeloader who lives with you? That's Deviluke.

I had a minor exchange with Komachi about this same subject as well, and I was glad to discover that she thought it was good that I finally worried about getting up early for school, so I wouldn't need to rush on my way out. With a timid giggle, she even mentioned a couple of times that I tripped for dashing out of the house, which I had to admit, was funny to picture.

I'm glad I have yet to experience such circumstances myself. I don't think I'd be able to take it.

And finally, after an uneventful trek (I ignored Yuuki again, but was happily greeted by cutesy Mikan), I stood before Sobu High's main entrance. I felt a bit irritated since that cue ball vice principal was there, dusting his white car while humming some stupid song. Seriously, I've felt calm since I woke up, but seeing that man's annoying face screwed my mood.

"So Uchiyamada-sensei brought his new car again?" Commented a passing Sobu student.

Her male friend shrugged her shoulders, "I don't see why fuss over it. It's just an old-modeled Cresta."

I observe them as they pass me before glancing at my left, the sound of an approaching engine catching my attention. I watch with a raised eyebrow as a truck approaches the entrance, at such a speed that I had to walk further inside the peatonal walkway just in case.

I blink as the truck moved directly to where the baldy had parked his white car, and I swear that at such speed, it's gonna crash into it. I was really surprised though, I mean, that idiotic bald man noticed the incoming truck and stood between it and his car as if to protect it.

"Woooooooooooooooouuu!" He shouted, extending his arms to the side.

Holy… He's going to get hit by that truck! Hey, you were a bastard, but I didn't think you deserve a fated meeting with Truck-kun. I don't think you'll be able to meet Aqua to get your second chance!

Everyone stood gaping at the scene as the truck stopped at mere inches from the cue ball. The man in question sweating profusely from the comprehension of almost being run over. He was just a trembling mess with perspiration pouring down his face.

And before I can make my exit, I see the driver of the truck waving a hand at me. The reason I know it was aimed at me was because the hand belonged to none other than Onizuka Eikichi-sensei.

Figures…

I noticed the truck carried furniture and many boxes on the back. So, he was moving to live in the school as Sakurai-sensei told him after all, huh? Did she place that much worth in Onizuka-sensei's abilities?

"C'mon Hikigaya!" He shouts, and instantly, every student around turns their gaze at me.

Just what I needed.

I sigh in resignation. Looks like he thinks we're friends or something. It's both good and bad; now I don't have to worry about making good impressions but he's also liable to be overly familiar. I just know this will lead to future headaches. Because of this, I reluctantly walk up to the driver's side of the truck.

"Good morning, Sensei," I greet the man, ignoring the pale baldie in front of the vehicle.

"Hey!" He grins before turning to the vice principal, "Oh, how're you holding up, Kyōtō-sensei? Sorry about… er… you know…" Scratching the back of his head, Onizuka-sensei forced a smile. Well, this is in fact awkward, considering what he just did to him. "That little and insignificant thing of yesterday… no hard feelings right?"

"The-the-the-the-" Uchiyamada stammers in shocks, only just registering Onizuka-sensei's presence.

His reaction comes as no surprise, but I don't really care, in fact, having Onizuka-sensei backing me up will be a good advantage against this bully of a teacher. Since Hiratsuka-sensei won't be here for a while, I'll need someone with enough authority inside Sobu to counter whatever crap this cue ball and his lot come up with.

I'm honestly not expecting much, but his title as a teacher should prove to be enough.

"Anyway, could you move? I need to move my stuff in."

The baldie blinks in confusion, "Your stuff?"

One of the windows close by is opened, showing Sobu's chairwoman inside. Her eyes light in recognition as she leans on the framework, "Oh, you're here early, Onizuka-kun." She smiles, also nodding to me as she had noticed my presence. "I'll take you to your room."

Uchiyamada blinks twice, "W-what are you talking about, Kōchō-sensei?"

"Starting today, Onizuka-kun will..."

The blonde, pulling himself out from the driver's window, smirks and continues, "...live on campus. That was a requirement for my employment."

"WHAT!?"

Wait is it just me, or did I hear a loud sound to increase the impact of the news? In any case, the look of his face is just priceless. Heh… how satisfying.

Getting down from the truck, the blonde pats my back, "Mind giving me a hand, Hikigaya?"

"Oi, I'm not your mover," I muttered with a raised brow.

He laughs out loud, "Hahaha! Don't be like that now. I'm now your homeroom teacher, you know?"

That's not how that works, Sensei…

I tsk at that, pocketing my hands, "There's too much heavy stuff in there. I can carry that pillow if you want."

"NO! Not that!" He suddenly shouts, "I don't want ANYONE touching my pillow!"

I put my hands up in surrender at his sudden bellow, "R-right…"

It's just a pillow, no need for the sudden killing intent…

"Anything more than that is above my paygrade, Sensei." I recover from my brief fright.

Onizuka scratches the back of his head, "Alright, how about if I buy you lunch today? That's fair, right?"

I almost fell for his offer again, but then I remembered the saddened face Belldandy made when she saw I didn't eat her bento yesterday. With her one expression I felt enough guilt to want to crawl into a hole and die as punishment. Rom Com Gods forgive me if I go through it again.

"I have my own lunch, Sensei, thanks," I tell him with a shake of my head.

"What about if I lend you some video games!?"

"I no longer have the time to play them anymore these days," I almost whimper at how true my words were. Give me back my days of wasting away doing nothing, dammit!

Onizuka-sensei puts a thoughtful hand under his chin, "What if I let you come late to class for a couple of days?"

I hold back a laugh at Onizuka-sensei's horrible bribery, hearing the cue ball muttering about the situation being a nightmare does lead me to snort however. You haven't even started yet, and you're already betraying Sakurai-sensei's wishes, Onizuka-sensei. Worse still since you're offering it to the 'worst student imaginable.'

"I don't think I'd be able to get it away with it given our audience," I gesture to the school principal who was still here.

Sakurai-sensei seems amused by our exchange despite that, "I'm sure he's just joking. In any case, could you please help him, Hikigaya-kun? Classes will start soon and I'd rather have his belongings in place before the bell rings."

I saw that coming. "Fine," I sigh with a helpless shrug.

Onizuka-sensei grins and starts unloading all his belongings, passing some to me. Some steps come from behind, and I spot Zaimokuza passing past me, walking with slow steps as if he wanted to… make himself unnoticed.

Seeing my chance to not suffer alone, I call out to my 'comrade-in-arms.' "Oh, Zaimokuza, you're not busy are you?"

Using the deceptive manipulations utilized by Raijuus, my question is nowhere near as innocent as it seemed. The request to help is implied, and I give him the illusion of choice of seeming generous should he answer in a denial. Additionally, there's a hidden pressure of coming off as the bad guy should he say he was since it'd be an obvious lie. This is further worsened with the presence of Sakurai-sensei and the two adults. It's a scary thing to do, and I only pulled it off after years of observing other victims. I thank you all for your sacrifices.

Zaimokuza never stood a chance.

"A-as expect-ted of my rival. Showing n-no mercy," He covers his face with a hand, "I-I guess I'm g-gonna have to concede on t-this one." He stands at my side, drops of sweat falling from his forehead, and I notice him glancing at the cue ball warily. "W-well, since you are in need of my limitless strength, I'll lend a hand this t-time!"

"Now who is this?" Onizuka-sensei asks in amusement, "Friend of yours?"

I remain silent as Zaimokuza does the rejection for me. If he were a cute girl, then both of us denying that aspect would be one of those clichéd moments in crappy Rom Coms that speak the opposite. But he wasn't, and the thought of synchronizing with him grossed me out. Besides, I needed to pre-emptively tune out his tirade that would come after it speaking about how Zaimokuza Yoshiteru is a lone warrior of fate.

So long as he doesn't bring up any of 'my' Dark History, I let him say what he wants.

"We're on and off gym partners," I mercifully cut through Zaimokuza's spiel.

"Right, right," He shrugs his shoulders.

Sensei hands more of his stuff to the chuuni before we finally go inside, leaving a stunned vice principal in our wake. We meet with Sakurai-sensei in the lobby, and she leads us to the special building connected to the main one.

Just like in my world, the special building was mostly empty. It's to be expected since it was mostly used for storage and to host other clubs. A feeling of anxiousness invades me at the thought of passing by the Service Club, but I quell it since neither member would be there at this time. In the end, it wasn't even in the same floor, but on the one below it, so I guess that's that.

Even putting the fact that they were not the people I knew under consideration didn't make things any less harder… Feh, whatever…

Lugging my new homeroom teacher's junk through the building wasn't as troublesome as I thought it would be. Well, I could have done without the stunned stares that zeroed in on myself and Onizuka-sensei. Either way, the three of us follow Sakurai-sensei in silence as we finally reach a room at the end of the hall where Onizuka-sensei will be living in from now on. I idly note the door that led to stairs that accessed the roof near to his room. Hoh, that's considerate since he smokes and I doubt he'd care about this campus not allowing for it.

That is still confusing for me. Is Onizuka-sensei going to have to pay rent? Or is it going to be deducted from his paycheck? Is he going to use the showers that the sports clubs use? This is all so weird…

I hear some shouting coming from one of the rooms, the one that is at two doors away from Onizuka's future room. Who could be there making a fuss so early? You'll be late to class, you know? Say, that was supposed to be the chemistry prep room right? I narrow my gaze, noticing some sign attached below it that showed some draws of poker cards, among other and the simple name: Magic Club? There's an actual magic club in Sobu?

Why do I even bother; even something like that in Sobu is possible now. I should probably expect it to actually have a supernatural basis seeing how often the world has me see it.

"Mmm? This… will be my room?"

I blink as Onizuka-sensei studies the room before him with a blank stare. Curiosity of course compels me to approach the door to get a view of the insides, and right then and there could I understand we would he sport such a face.

To begin with, the room was rather small, with cluttered desks and boxes all around. It was dark since the windows were covered by the aforementioned boxes, and… well, just looking at the place… it seriously needed some work for it be useable let alone homely.

Sakurai-sensei smiles and nods her head, "Yes. Isn't it a penthouse?"

Zaimokuza snickers at that, and for myself, I can't help smirking in amusement. It seems it won't be all wine and roses as he thought. Funny.

And as the woman leaves the room, she says calmly, "Don't be late to class, Onizuka-kun. I'm sure your class will be eager to get to know you better."

Onizuka-sensei points a finger at her as she leaves, jaw hanging, eyes widened, and heck, he now looked even more paler than cue ball vice principal. The room does look very crappy now. He suddenly slumps over a desk, a depressed aura enveloping him.

"I knew it was too good to be true," He commented with a lowered voice, head dropping, "They were gonna hire me and provide housing… I was completely cheated."

Oi, oi, you got lucky just landing a job in the first place and you have the gall to complain about the housing that they were not obligated to provide? You should be prostrating to the gods for Sobu's predicament strong-arming Sakurai-sensei into hiring you!

After we leave his belongings in what space we could find inside the room, I finally turned to him.

"At least you don't have to worry about transportation," I offer the whining man, instead of voicing my criticisms.

However, it falls on deaf ears as he just keeps muttering stuff I can't manage to hear. Zaimokuza folds his arms, looking around when something calls his attention. He picks from the ground one of the boxes and puts it over another desk, only to pull out a Gamecube console from it.

How old-fashioned, but in good condition. The man is still in his miserable state so I pipe up before it suffocates the chuuni and I.

"You have a Gamecube, Sensei?"

He barely lifts his head, still sounding as depressed as before "Yeah, so?"

"No, it was just unexpected. I thought I was the only one who still played it these days," I didn't really play it, but I had one. And since it isn't 'trendy' and old the chance of other players on campus should be rather low.

"Heh, brings me back many memories," Comments Zaimokuza as he adjusts his glasses.

Onizuka-sensei stands on his feet, and with hands pocketed, and looking kind of irritated, he asks, "You two like games?"

I give an honest shrug, "You can say that."

The resident chuuni gives him a thumbs up, "They're an endless source of knowledge after all!"

Onizuka stares at us before picking another box, and starts shuffling its contents, "Are you into fighting and shooting stuff?"

"On occasion," I respond easily enough, I'm decent enough in fighter games against the A.I. And I have a few FPSs and RPGs under my belt; I also probably a few too many simulators that I'm knowledgeable about. Komachi prefers racing, so I'm more used to playing those with an actual person.

Zaimokuza smirks, making a pose, "I'm an RPG man! There is nothing better than them! Not only do we get good gameplay, but each offers plenty of story!"

"That so?" Onizuka pulls out a game case, showing a game I was familiar with, "Did you play this one?"

My loner companion grabs the game and examines it, but shakes his head, "I have heard stories of this one. Alas, I never managed to procure it, and eventually it slipped my mind."

So much for an RPG man, huh…

"Tales of Symphonia," I read slowly, recalling it had been of the first I got for the console, "I finished it."

"Waaaahhhh!" Out of nowhere Onizuka yells, completely in shock. What the…!?

Oi, oi! What are yo-

We both step away in surprise when the crazy blonde bows to us, "I beg of you honorable deputy officer! I haven't been able to finish that game! Please help me!"

This was an unexpected development…

"Ah, well, it's been a while since I've played…" I start.

"Thank you so much, honorable Hikigaya-sama!" He smiles in appreciation, "I beg for your instruction!"

No, wait, where on earth did you get the idea that I was accepting your request!? I wasn't, I wasn't!

The first bell rings, signalling the start of classes in the next few minutes.

Looks like Onizuka-sensei wasting away at our already little time got me out of helping him. I hear a certain quick muttering and a voiced sound effect of a smoke bomb going off to my left. It seems Zaimokuza had similar thoughts in his head and made a quick retreat. Well, as quick as one can expect from an out of shape chuuni playing at being a ninjutsu practitioner.

"We should probably go to class," I point out in order to be excused from additional work.

"Hai, hai," He waves a hand dismissively, "Go on ahead, I'll pick up some stuff and I'll see you there."

"Er, right," I nod uneasily, not sure how to act with a teacher as casual as he was. I exit the room before my awkwardness consumes me.

I had a six or so minutes before the last bell rang. It was a decent trek to 2-F, so I quickened my pace to my locker in order to swap footwear. Tch, if I don't make it to class on time I'd better get a pass for being tardy. For once, it wasn't my fault for being late.

I close my locker and grab my book bag before resuming my strides towards homeroom. I slow down when I glance at the nearest clock and notice that I had enough time to spare until the bell rang. I'd reach my seat right when it'd go off.

I totally didn't stop because I was about to bump into a certain airhead I had slighted previously and the blonde riajuu I least wanted in the place where I should be. That was a complete coincidence, honest. And I seriously didn't automatically activate Stealth Hikki in full in order to prevent them from noticing me trailing behind them.

Hah… This makes two days in a row where I stumble onto two members of the Service without wanting it. Is this world trying to test me by exposing me to the ones I'm not ready to face? I don't need to be reminded about the bad relationship I have with the two important to me, especially considering that I made things worse with the social butterfly between them.

Eventually, a WILD Miura-tan appears! What was this!? There's no tall grass in this area!

She greets both Yuigahama and the riajuu before gazing at me, her face visibly brightening as she skips towards me, standing just before me with a big smile. My intimidation of the Fire Queen's proximity aside, things were made worse when her actions drew the gazes of the other two and in turn landing on me. It takes my all not to grimace at Yuigahama noticing my presence having been there the whole time. She almost yelps as she grabbed onto Hayama's sleeve and hurriedly dragged him towards our classroom. That takes even more from me to not react.

I tear my gaze away from the sight and acknowledge the one directly in front of me, "Yo…"

"Hikio!" She grins, before resting her hands on her hip, "So, Onizuka will start today? I heard he's already moved his stuff here?"

"Ah," I nod, rubbing the back of my head, "I'm still trying to make sense of that myself, but he'll be here soon enough. Probably."

He won't get lost, will he?

She folds her arms, cocking an eyebrow, "Yeah… but… aren't you curious, Hikio?" I narrow my gaze, not getting what she was referring to. "About how school will be with someone like him around?"

Oh, that… well… I'd be lying if I said I wasn't curious about it myself. I had no idea what miracles Sakurai-sensei expected Onizuka-sensei to perform for Sobu. He was lucky that his job was to be a substitute homeroom teacher or else he'd have no chance of actually having a subject to teach in this kind of school. I'm sure we'll have active teachers pick up the slack left behind in Hiratsuka-sensei's actual academic class. I've mentioned it before, but good intent can only take you so long before your shortcomings rear their ugly heads.

Well, my involvement ended when I was able to let him be hired. What happens after that is not my responsibility. If Onizuka-sensei fails Sakurai-sensei, she's the one at fault for placing so much unfounded faith in him.

"He can do what he wants so long as I don't get dragged into any mess he causes again," I shrug with a sigh.

She grins, "Knowing you, that's soooo gonna happen!" And her smile gains confidence, "But I'll be there to help you out, Hikio! You can count on me!"

I cough into my fist at her cutesy display, "Y-yeah, I appreciate it… No, wait, why are you making it sound like I'm the one looking for trouble?"

I send her a mock glare that had no fire to it, mostly because I felt like I knew the answer.

She sticks out her tongue playfully, "Because Hikio is Hikio after all."

I mostly grumble in irritation instead of responding. Even the girl that likes 'me' states that I'm a troublemaker like if it's the most obvious thing.

Her smile widens visibly, and it's a bit irritating, "Hikio is so cute when he sulks… teehee!"

I had to keep myself from flushing and weakly grumble, "That's not a thing…"

Miura is overcome with giggles at that. I click my tongue with a scowl, my dignity is taking bad blow after bad blow. Luckily(?), my bruised ego was saved from additional teasing by the final bell blaring throughout the empty hall.

We exchange a look and before we could enter the class, a familiar voice calls my attention, making me glance over my shoulder, "Erk…! H-Hikigaya?"

Ah, it's… It's, er… Honda-san…? No, no, not that… It was… umm… Oh! It's…

"Saa-chan?" Judging by how the silver haired girl flushed crimson in probably anger, I may have actually gotten her name wrong. Ah, crap. It was Kawasaki Saki, wasn't it? Whoops. I swear to you, if I survive my inevitable beating, I will remember your actual name!

"Saa-chan?" I hear Miura's dry voice repeat, and I tense instantly. I completely forgot that Miura would have a reaction to my error. May you rest in peace, Hikigaya!

"A-ah, um, w-well, you know…" I stuttered out, desperately trying to find a way out of this mess, "K-Kawasaki's little sister calls her that, and I sometimes joke about it."

I'm sure my future self's corpse is spinning in the unmarked ditch he was dumped in after that. It barely registers that I hadn't met Keika yet at this point in time, in fact, I don't meet her for another month or so. Even worse still, I had no idea what my relationship was with her older sister outside of acknowledging each other's existences.

Shit! Did I really bust myself in such a pathetic manner!?

Miura steps between us and leans towards her, surprisingly, letting out a resigned sigh, "Fine…" Her eyes become sharp, still focused on Kawasaki, "So, like, now you decide to talk to us, Kawasaki?"

Wait, I got away with it? Hold the phone, they're pleasant with each other?

"It's not like I just decided," Responded the girl with silver-colored hair, shrugging her shoulders, her matching eyes being averted, "Who cares if I didn't the other days? Not like it bothered anyone."

They begin to casually chat as I stare at them in surprise. They're actually familiar with each other in this world? I thought it was odd enough for the Fire Queen to know the StuCo President, but, Kawasaki? I glance at a nearby window on the off chance of seeing airborne swine or a sign of the coming apocalypse.

"Quiet, blondie. Since you two are actin' so lovey-dovey, it would just suck bein' the third wheel is all," Growled Kawasaki all of a sudden, a glare directed at me despite that she was talking to the Fire Queen.

What? Am I guilty now? I didn't d- Wait, I actually did, huh, letting Miura get close…

"Stop that you idiot!" Miura narrowed her gaze, "We just solved our problems, you know?" She adverts her green eyes, a finger playing with a drill of hair, "Besides, we're just, like, starting to get to k-know each other…"

Kawasaki deadpans, and once more, I become the recipient of her glare, "Is that right, Hikigaya?"

"Uh, I guess," I murmur in response.

Her amethyst eyes widen, "W-wait a minute, so you two are really getting t-to know each other!?"

Miura flushed red, and I almost fell on my face, that is if I were an anime character, which I'm not. I slipped again, geez… Miura did say something so embarrassing and I confirmed it without thinking… Maybe Deviluke's tactless antics are rubbing off on me…

"It's not what you're thinking," I grumbled, rolling my eyes, "We're acquainting ourselves with one ano-"

I'm interrupted when something hits the back of my head, almost causing me to bite my tongue. I turned to glare at the attacker, only to see it was Onizuka-sensei, looking at me with an amused expression. I can already imagine the idiotic conclusion he's reached.

"Late, Hikigaya?" He smirks cockyly, "Shouldn't you leave hitting on girls for later?"

Miura looks away, and Kawasaki frowns, more confused than annoyed by the dumb statement. Honestly, you're making me sound like some sort of playboy or something. Wait, I sort of was, wasn't I? There's Miura, Kasumigaoka and now Deviluke. No, no! The first two don't count! They like a different me, not me me! S-so that makes your statement one third right and two thirds wrong, and due to the majority it makes you wrong! I'm not a playboy! And Deviluke's an alien, making her a wild outlier, so that means that no human girl could ever be interested in me!

Wait, did I just damage myself by saying that!?

"Who's this guy?" Asks Kawasaki as she observes the older man.

Onizuka-sensei chuckles, eyes closed, but for a moment, before pointing a thumb at himself, "I'm Onizuka Eikichi, 22 years old, still sin-"

"That's illegal, Sensei," I cut the ground from under him as he sputters. Seriously, your students don't need to know about your availability.

"He's, like, our homeroom teacher until Hiratsuka-sensei recovers," Miura responds, and Kawasaki cocked an eyebrow in disbelief. "Didn't you hear yesterday about someone knocking out that bald jerk, Uchiyamada?"

Onizuka scratches the back of his head, "Hehe! Didn't mean it, but he kind of deserved it. Hehehe!"

Kawasaki looks at her blankly, "You're saying they hired the guy that attacked the vice principal?"

"C'mon, c'mon! You can talk about my good deeds later," Onizuka motions his head towards the opened door, "Gotta make my presentation to the others too, kiddos. Get a move on."

Oi, oi! Aren't you the main reason for why we're still here?

Miura and Kawasaki scurry on inside, and just as I'm about to follow, my shoulder is grabbed, "Hoh… so you're actually aiming to get the harem route?"

"It's nothing like that," I growl with a bit more bite to my tone than I meant. Geh, didn't think that of all things would be a sore spot for me.

He looks at me seriously, but then grins, "Sure Hikigaya! Whatever you say."

Tch! This guy thinks I'm lying…

He pats my back, letting out a loud cackle, one that was deliberately done to mess with me… class has not even started and he's already getting on my nerves… I now wonder if this will be worth it, just like Sakurai-sensei mentioned.

"C'mon, get inside!" He says hurriedly before heading off, "I'll be back in a bit!"

"What about you?" I retort, noticing that he's just standing there, "You only have like fifteen minutes for the homeroom meeting."

He waves at me dismissively, "I'll get ready to make my presentation. Go take your seat already kiddo."

I roll my eyes, and finally headed inside. Almost everyone was already in their seats, but I notice Kawasaki looking at me with a frown, and Miura, well, she was still embarrassed given that she averted her gaze once I looked in her direction.

Hayama's gaze was sharp, but I paid it no mind. He's probably concerned about the new rumors popping up here and there.

The latest gossip is all about Onizuka-sensei after all, and interestingly enough, everyone thinks I'm his protégé since he called me to help him carry his stuff, not to mention that he helped me when that bastard cue ball began to verbally abuse me.

Whatever the case, I couldn't care any less about what the riajuu, let alone, those superficial and brainless people think of me. Except for Totsuka, of course. I'd love to hear him compliment me.

A woman appears from the door, the same teacher from yesterday, Fuyutsuki-sensei. She gazed at us before walking in, standing just before the whole class. Silence fills the room for a few seconds, until she finally speaks.

"Good morning everyone," She smiles brightly, "As you may already know, Hiratsuka-sensei is recovering from an unfortunate accident, so until she recovers completely, a temporary teacher will replace her," She looks through door's window. "Onizuka-sensei! You may come in!"

There's no response for an awkward amount of time. Fuyutsuki-sensei blinks in surprise as she keeps looking at the entranceway, apparently stumped by something the class couldn't see. I know Onizuka doesn't look like the average professor, but he was dressed formally just some moments ago, and he isn't as intimidating as he might come off as.

Of course, I only spoke because I had yet to see whatever the female teacher was seeing.

That didn't take too long, though.

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 08 Section: Song 09

---

Without further notice, the semi-opened door is slammed open with a kick, making the students closer to the entrance yelp in surprise. What the…?

Onizuka-sensei finally enters the class, a lit cigarette in his right hand, the other pocketed with a folder pinned between his body and left elbow. The blonde sported transparent dark brown glasses, and his blue shirt was opened by the top, the red tie he used gone, instead showing part of his bare chest, a golden chain hanging over it.

Wait, the heck is this? Is he supposed to be a yakuza?

Every step he made towards the podium was slow and menacing, the cigarette finally reaching his mouth as he threw the folder on the podium without a care, Fuyutsuki-sensei yelping.

"Fuyutsuki-sensei, I'll take things from here," His voice was dry, and had an edge to it.

"Y-yes…" She quickly stepped aside and left the class, not before looking at us in concern. I know Fuyutsuki-sensei, you're afraid of leaving us with this guy, who for some reason was acting like some delinquent out of nowhere… What on earth is he thinking?

The woman closes the door slowly and Onizuka-sensei picks up a whiteboard and writes some letters on the board, which says the following.

GTO

---

Go to profile, SEE: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 08 Section: Picture 05

---

He turns around, cigarette still in his mouth and both hands pocketed, his stance the very meaning of intimidation.

"Starting today, I'm gonna be this class' homeroom teacher," He states with a fierce tone, "I'm the Great Teacher Onizuka!" I narrow my gaze, reading the small kanjis below the letters as he said. "Nice ta meet ya!"

Nice to meet you!

And then, there was utter silence.

I pinched the bridge of my nose at the eccentric introduction. I think I now understood why this was Yukinoshita's favored gesture whenever dealing with idiocies. Was he an idiot? This isn't a public school where you can probably get away with this. Now you'll definitely have a delinquent stigma on you until you leave. Worse, now you gave students more reasons to believe that I'm your underling.

Ebina suddenly raises a hand, "Onizuka-sensei, I know it's obvious but… smoking is prohibited in classrooms, you see."

He blinked twice, looking slightly confused, "Eh?" He shakes his head out of his stupor, "Sorry, sorry." He is quick to put out the cigarette using the sole of his shoe.

Hayama stands and walks up to him, extending a trash can, "Sensei, you can throw the cigarette here."

What a nice guy! But, you realize that the biggest issue is the smell, right? Someone open a window, I don't want to be done in by second-hand smoking.

"Oh, uhh, okay," Onizuka-sensei diligently does as told.

Miura audibly sighs, before saying out loud, "Shouldn't you, like, take attendance?"

He scratches the back of his head, "I should yeah, hahaha!"

As Hayama returns to his seat, he begins calling each of our names, "Tobe?"

Wait, you're not going to bother going in alphabetical order?

"Here, Sensei!" He raises a hand, smirking.

Onizuka looks at him blankly before continuing, "Harada?"

"Here."

"Nakatomi?"

"H-here!"

The blonde teacher gazes at her, and the short-haired girl flushes under his scrutiny. Oi,oi! Stop staring at your own students like that, you Pervert Sensei! You'll go to jail if you continue!

"Miura?"

My blonde companion shrugs her shoulders nonchalantly, "Here, here."

He grins, "Hehehe, it's such a coincidence that you're in my class."

I raise an eyebrow, suspecting his intent. This guy…

"It's not like I'm happy about that," She responds uncaringly. Again, it sounded like a typical tsundere phrase, but she was completely serious about it. What a scary ability…

Onizuka-sensei forces a chuckle, "I guess, hehe."

Murmurs begin among my classmates, comments about how they knew each other come from multiple sources, but as expected of the Fire Queen, a glare was all that was needed for the class to become silent again.

"Ozawa?"

"Here."

"Tsuchida?" He glances at yet another of my classmates.

Unexpectedly, a bespectacled blackhead responds with a cocky smile, "Hey there."

Onizuka-sensei's face becomes dumb all of a sudden… dumber than it already was since he set his eyes on her, "Hehehe! Erhm," He coughs into his fist. "Sagami…" There was no response. "Sagami?"

"Oh! I'm here!" I glance to my left, spotting the girl in question. Hehh… Was it too much effort to even respond on time?

Onizuka merely glimpses at her before continuing, "Alright. Yuigahama?"

"Here!" The high-spirited girl says out loud.

Onizuka-sensei stares at her, making her gulp. Hold on a minute… he's staring at Yuigahama's Yuigahamas in front of us! This man holds no shame, seriously. That pervert now seems happy even… Ugh, this is pissing me off… Leave her alone, dammit.

"Yosh! Totsuka."

"A-ah, I'm here, Sensei!" The residential angelic being stutters cutely. Ahh~ He cleansed me of the irritation shrouding my heart!

The man takes some steps to him, looking confused, "Mmm, are you a boy or what?"

How dare you!? You shouldn't even have to ask that! Totsuka transcends how society views genders! The only correct answer is that she's cute!

Wait, why did I feel like I missed something important?

"O-oh… I'm a boy…" The silver-haired boy bashfully stuttered.

Onizuka blinks in shock, "The hell!?" He leans close to him before sighing, "Man, is this the so called trap?"

"E-eh?"

"Whatever!" He returns to the podium, "Hikigay-" He looks at me, "Hey, Hikigaya! Don't forget to teach me your ways after school!"

"I don't remember making that sort of promise…" I muttered lowly with an annoyed click of my tongue.

More murmurs began, some glances and a couple of glares directed at me. What? Was I not even allowed to complain about Onizuka-sensei deciding things on his own? Don't you bastards have other things to be judgemental about in order to feel fulfilled with your pathetic lives? Tch, I probably would have been glared at if I remained silent.

In any case, he finishes reading the list, and gives us some weird speech about his first day in high school. It had been eerily similar to the story I overheard him tell Sakurai-sensei during lunch yesterday. None of us were expecting that, and he explained how difficult it was for him, admitting that he sort of sucked in his studies.

He even revealed that he pulled a yakuza act to intimidate us since he somehow thought the class was full of delinquents… (I didn't appreciate the attention that came to me after he said that). I know Sakurai-sensei may have told him there were many inner problems in Sobu, but for him to reach that conclusion? And even if that was the truth, why try to intimidate his own class?

Little by little, my skepticism about this enlarges… just how on earth this guy will solve Sobu's problems? If this were a different school there might have been a difference in his effectiveness, but Sobu, as bad as it currently is, is an entirely different monster of its own.

But the thing is, his honesty was the most shocking part about this. He didn't bother to put on airs about why he was here.

I notice Yuigahama, Kawa-something, and even Miura-tan intently paying attention to what he said, and while there were those here and there ignoring him, finding their phones more interesting, the attention he gathered in just a few minutes was something worthy of consideration. Especially considering his theatrics earlier.

Suffice to say, this development wasn't expected.

Eventually, the bell rings, signalling the start of our first real class in the next few minutes. He smirks and leaves the class with raised hand, and gossip beings once he set his foot out. How was it possible that he left a good impression after his failed yakuza act?

Only in this world can weird stuff like this happen, seriously.

At least the introduction was the last of the odd occurrences for the classes after it. Aside from the wary glances I received every so often from my teachers, no issues rose up. Still, I couldn't help but overhear how much of a hot topic Onizuka-sensei was through the entire time.

When lunch came, a somewhat distraught Miura came up to me saying how Shiromeguri was too busy to eat lunch with us. I internally heaved a sigh of relief at that being put off for another day, but if things keep going like this, my anxiety is going to skyrocket! When I asked why she was so worried, the Fire Queen told me how Shiromeguri was dealing with a new issue with the budgets among a few clubs and how the numbers weren't adding up. It seemed like Isshiki was going to inherit immediate trouble if she's stuck with winning the elections.

It took me a moment after that to realize how my own concern for my senpai was absent.

When lunch came around… It was weird, to put it lightly.

Miura was excited at the idea of us being alone (she mentioned how Shiromeguri told her not to worry and enjoy her lunch), but when we arrived to my once secret haven we saw that it had already been invaded by a certain ex-delinquent smoking there without a care in the world.

It was scary how quickly the giddy expression died on Miura's face…

Unfortunately for us both, Onizuka-sensei noticed our presence (I blame Miura's naturally high charisma) and waved us over. Unable to escape, a moody Fire Queen and I made our way to him and sat on the steps behind where he crouched. It looked uncomfortable in such posture, especially in a suit, but Onizuka-sensei didn't show any strain. For some reason, the way he crouched made me double-check my belongings and make sure there was no cliff for him to kick me down from.

The conversation that ensued was mostly one-sided, on both parts… Onizuka-sensei attempted to guide along a boisterous conversation, and while I attempted to humor him just to be polite, there was only so much someone as socially bankrupt as me could do. Meanwhile, Miura attempted to keep my attention on her while blatantly ignoring our sensei's presence. I had an easier time keeping up with her, but Onizuka-sensei was loud enough to prevent us from creating our own atmosphere. I wasn't sure whether to be grateful about that or not.

When the lunch bell rang, Miura pouted about not being able to spend time together, but quickly recovered, sending me a bashful smile with a promise that next time would be different. It was embarrassing and cute to see. After she went ahead, Onizuka-sensei elbowed me in the ribs and sent me a smug look that irritated me to no end.

The classes after that were boring. We were mostly relegated to review sessions or self-studying in preparation for our upcoming midterms. I did my best to brush up on the topics I was good at and made sure to memorize the fundamentals but I knew that nothing short of a miracle would let me get away with barely passing grades when it came to math and sciences. I'll have to figure something out there.

It's the way that the day ended that threw a wrench into any plans I had in having a peaceful walk home.

Immediately once the bell rang, I found myself being dragged off by Onizuka-sensei to his humble abode. I was barely able to get my stuff together before being pulled out of there. I doubt my plea for help was able to reach Miura given how quickly everything happened.

I made to send her a message to go on ahead because I was going to get stuck with something unpleasant to deal with.

And I was right.

Once there, Onizuka-sensei begged me to help him pass the game he was whining about earlier. I eventually relented because I was almost being held prisoner in there by a pleading warden, and I just wanted to leave. With his work being finished, I didn't have to go help Harima so I was supposed to be home free!

I lost nearly two hours of my afternoon trying to help him pass the damned game. I seriously wanted to take his controller and do it all for him but, the idiot was too stubborn to let me. I could have cut the nearly two hours into twenty-five minutes, dammit!

To make things worse, I was somehow roped into helping him tidy up his room while I backseat gamed. I mean, it beat losing my mind idling behind him as he bumbled around in the game, but this was a serious breach in my 'To work is to lose' ideology.

But at least with that, I was able to minimize the damage and lose a little more than an hour and a half instead of the full two hours. All the good that it did me with how the already cloudy weather was starting to darken. I'm fairly sure I'm the only idiot who was still on campus with this crappy weather nearing.

Onizuka-sensei, despite being the shameless bastard that he was, surprisingly offered to drive me home, but I had to decline, not only because it was raining, but also because he was planning to use his motorcycle, which he brought to Sobu at some point of the day. The truck he brought had disappeared since the morning.

There's no way I'm getting on that death trap, not to mention enduring his insane driving again.

I decided to just get home on my own. In the rain. With no umbrella.

Argh… I regret helping you get your job!

8-17

To say that it was raining heavily was underplaying it.

A better description would have been that the sky was falling, because honestly, it basically was. In only a matter of minutes, the streets became deserted as everyone sought cover to shield themselves from the furious rainfall that threatened to flood the road.

Thankfully, the outlets and water drains placed in strategic locations across the streets were dealing with the rising water pouring in the streets. It went without saying that anyone caught in the middle of such a natural phenomenon, and far away from home, would find their circumstances quite dreadful.

That was me of course.

The cloudy sky made it look that it was night, the wind blew strongly from one direction to the other, carrying raindrops which crashed against my face like hail. My eyes flickered constantly as I tried to see through them, my mind focused on finding cover from the unforgiving weather.

Hah… Poor thing's trembling…

Resting in my arms was a small black cat with a scar on its forehead, just between its tiny eyes, which resembled an 'X'. It was wet and would probably die if it was left alone during this rain storm. Maybe that's the reason why I chased after it when I spotted it running scared between some small trees. Reckless, of course, but I blame my preference for cats.

My noble intent earned me some scratches at first, but the small feline calmed down once I held it close to me, as if registering that I only meant to help, not harm. Little guy was just scared.

And so I found myself running in hopes of finding cover for us both.

The road looked alive with more splashes than the eye could see, but that didn't deter me from advancing. Water droplets splattered over my head and shoulders nonstop, and I began to feel a cold sensation reach my body.

Just my luck! It soaked through, dammit!

A minute later, I somehow catch sight of shelter a block ahead. I ran as fast as my legs would allow me, not caring that my fast steps splashed more water on me. Didn't take long for me to reach our salvation from nature's punishment. Hah… this will have to do until the rain loses intensity.

I sit on the bench and pull out a handkerchief from my wet bookbag —luckily it and my other belongings avoided the wet— which I use to dry the cat's fur as much as possible. I was worried for a moment as it continued to tremble, but thankfully, it stopped after some minutes, apparently having found comfort within my warmth. Oh, I just know Kamakura will smell its scent on my clothes and refuse to let me touch him for a while.

In any case, all that was left to do was to wait.

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 08 Section: Song 10

---

I watch my surroundings in silence, it was all empty, no other person had ended sharing the same circumstances I was in, but I guess that's fine. I wouldn't want to share this shelter with some stranger, especially with the awkwardness that would definitely come with that sort of situation. I glance at the now sleeping cat in my arms, and I can't help but let out a chuckle.

"You shouldn't trust strangers so quickly," I say lightly, and run my hand through it's somewhat damp fur.

Ten minutes passed and the rain drops continued to fall in steady, persistent manner, it was actually sort of soothing. The sky of white velvet didn't show even the slightest sign of letting go of its cry, and here I am thinking of the dumbest things… Geez… I'm feeling drowsy…

It didn't take long to feel lulled by the incessant tapping of raindrops against the shelters rooftop, the sound of distant cars splashing their way through the soaked tracks of asphalt… the cold sen… the…

Zzzzzzzzzzzzz…

*HONK!*

Ugh… What?

My closed eyes try to open slowly, suspecting the sudden sound to belong to a car horn. I felt too lazy to care, and just wanted to… Huh, I feel… colder?

The warmth on my lap is gone… Wait, it's gone!?

My eyes snapped open as I notice the cat was no longer with me. I panic at the thought of it becoming lost in the rainy weather, but it is then that I saw a figure standing some steps away from the shelter, carrying the cat, with both of them shielded from the rain by a purple umbrella.

I focus my gaze on this person, and as far as I could tell, it was a girl. That much was evident given her thin, feminine body… I couldn't make out her face as it was sort of hidden behind the umbrella. I could be wrong but she seemed to be observing me.

My eyes wander to the side as something on top of the bench calls my attention, it was a small gray thermos, and to my surprise, another umbrella. I blink twice, also noticing a piece of paper under the thermos. I grab it to see something written on it.

"Thank you for watching over Iori."

That was pretty much the only thing written, and I couldn't help feeling a bit lost. I raise my head to see the girl still watching me, the black cat on her free arm sleeping soundly… So it was hers?

This person quickly bows to me before walking away, her quiet steps barely audible even over the continual rainfall. My eyes fell to the note on my hands, and I understood it all.

Iori is that cat then. And whoever that girl was, left me this thermos and the umbrella for helping it. Well, I didn't really do anything special, someone else could have probably done more.

I pick up the thermos, I open it, I see its contents, and smell it…

It was coffee.

My eyes wander was once more to where that person stood, and I take a tentative sip of it. It might be cold, but that doesn't mean I suddenly don't have a cat's tongue.

It was good… damn good. A nice warmth, and a good blend of sweet and rich. This might be the best coffee I've had that wasn't at my preferred level of sweet.

The rain's intensity had lowered, but no doubt a cover was still necessary. I adjust my book bag over my arm, the thermos inside it, and I finally opened the umbrella, my brow twitched as the archaic design it showed once open was not to my liking, but it's not like someone will see me with it. Where did she get this? From the Edo period?

Meh, it's not like I even care if someone does see me… Although, Usui or Harima's mockery would irk me to no end, hell, if that perverted teacher of mine saw me… I shudder, and it's difficult to tell if it was because of the cold weather or the mere thought of getting ridiculed by that ex-delinquent.

There's no chance of them being around given the circumstances, right?

I give a shake of my head, I'm being silly. I need to head home fast and change out of these clothes, or I'll get sick… That is if this body of mine could even get sick in the first place. Well, at least that would be advantageous.

In any case, I guess I'm gonna have to find out who is the owner of that cat so I can return her belongings. I'm not sure if she had the intention of getting these back, but I'm not planning to keep them. That's the least I can do to repay her kindness.

I begin my trek back to the Hikigaya residence, but I come to a stop midway when my phone starts vibrating. It was Miura… heh, I suppose she's calling because she's worried.

"Uh, hello?" I awkwardly answer.

"Hikio! Are you okay!?" I flinch at the loudness of her voice, "Are you still at school with Onizuka? Or…?"

"It's alright, don't worry," I try to calm her anxiety, "I got caught in the rain on my way home."

"How am I supposed to NOT worry when you say that!?" She's still shouting…

"Because if something went wrong, I probably wouldn't have answered?" I offer lamely, then I realize that wouldn't go well and quickly add, "Honestly, I'm fine. I found a place to wait out the downpour."

I hear a hitch of breath being released, before she responds, "I'm glad… but… do you have an umbrella? If you want I could bring you one. Just tell me where you are."

"It's okay, there was a spare one I borrowed from Onizuka-sensei," I quickly lie, "Besides, I couldn't ask you to come out with the weather as bad as this."

"Tch…"

Wait, why did you click your tongue? I felt like my words were actually pretty savvy for once, so why did you disapprove? Waah… Is this the difference between our social skills? Did she see through my attempt and find it lacking?

"Well, I just wanted to know if you were okay, Hikio," She says with grumble, "Can I call you later? When you get home?"

Erk…!

"Ah, uh, well," I stumble over my words before clearing my throat, "I guess that's fine."

"You better answer your phone then, Hikio," She said, a small but still noticeable sharpness in her voice. "I'll haunt you in your sleep if you don't!"

Are you Baku's archrival? Instead of eating dreams and nightmares you invade them?

"Yeah, sure," I say offhandedly. "We'll talk later."

With that, I end the call, once more walking across the soaked, empty streets. The rain is still a bother, but had decreased in intensity, which is good, but-

"ACHOO!"

Aw, great… Even with the body I have, I spoke to soon about not getting sick. I'm still mostly wet too… Ah, crap. I hope I don't run the risk of getting pneumonia because of that…

If I survive the tongue-lashing from my mother for getting caught in the rain, I plan on crawling underneath the kotatsu and embracing its warmth. Maybe I'll also turn in early in the hopes of my accelerated healing being effective against me getting a cold. Ah, at least I still have a good amount of coffee in this thermos to keep me warm for my walk home!

*Bzzzzzt Bzzzzzt*

"?"

I stop in my tracks, noticing another incoming call. Maybe Miura forgot to tell me something? But wait… the caller's name is not hers, but some other name I'm not familiar with.

Machida Sonoko.

Wonderful… Another random person I have to pretend I know. And here I thought with the cloudy weather, some other cliché would happen instead. Although, there's this odd sense that I've heard of this name before, but I can't remember when or why.

I reluctantly swipe the green symbol on my phone, "Hello?"

"Hikigaya-san?"

A woman? I didn't think I'd know any other adult females aside from Haruno-san and Hiratsuka-sensei. Oh, right, there was that scary Takanashi last night and my 'aunt' Kimishima in America. Now there's this Machida-san to worry about. I don't even know what my response should be. Casual, formal, disrespectful… or romcom gods forbid, intimate? Ugh… I'll go with default neutral, it's usually what's expected.

"What is it?" I make sure not to have my tone sound too dry. People tend to pick up on that first when it comes to interacting with me.

"Shi-chan is in trouble!" I blink at her outburst, "She needs you, or else…"

Shi-chan? Who the heck is that? Crap, what do I say?

"Slow down," I cut in on her hysterics, "What are you talking about?"

Her response takes a few seconds to come, "Shi-chan has been acting weird lately, Hikigaya-san. I fear that not only her career is in jeopardy, but her well-being as well. You have to do something for Shi-chan!"

That doesn't make things any clearer! Stop using that nickname for my sake!

First thing's first, I have to figure out who this 'Shi-can' character is and why I'm supposed to care for her. All I have going for me besides her experiencing a personal dilemma is that she her career is in jeopardy. Okay, uh…

"What do you mean by weird?" I ask in confusion, before I force out a chuckle, "She didn't change her name into something as stupid as 'Shi-chan', did she?"

Yeah, I know it's lame but I don't make it my business to manipulate people for information on a regular basis, dammit!

"C'mon, you know I call Utaha like that," She retorts, her tone cold, "So, what are you gonna do?"

Wait, it worked!? How the…? No, focus, focus. So this was about Kasumigaoka then?

"I'm probably the second to last person she wants to see right now," I state, not feeling compelled to grovel at the author's feet like how she wanted me to. Obviously, Miura would be first.

"Hoh… So that was it, huh? You did do something to her…" Her previous tone was replaced by a knowing one, which made me tense a bit.

From what I can gather, this person is worried about Kasumigaoka, and I bet all that her outburst had been an act to force some answers out of me. And she got them.

Geh, I knew I screwed up big time by choosing Miura over Kasumigaoka, but why am I getting all of the heat for it? No, I know why; what I did was something the other Hachiman would not have done, and that overshadowed her own actions. But these consequences were getting annoying already.

"…Yeah…" I sigh out in exasperation, "So I don't think I'm the best person to help out at the moment."

Plus, I don't really want to open that can of worms yet.

There was silence for a brief moment before she spoke again, "I beg to differ, Hikigaya-san. I'm certain that if you caused her current dilemma, then only you can fix it."

I roll my eyes and cynically utter, "Well, this is clearly a problem that concerns us both. I'll look into it whenever I can, so let it be for now. Kasumigaoka will be fine."

"I won't," Her reply came in the form of a statement, one that was probably not going to be up for discussion. "As Shi-chan's editor, it falls on me the responsibility of watching over her best interests, and her well-being."

So that was their relationship? Sort of like Sakurai-sensei and myself, Machida is concerned over her meal ticket. If Kasumigaoka is unable to write, Machida shares in that loss as well especially with the author being as popular as she is.

"And it's your responsibility that led you to calling me, is it?" I ask boredly. Whether I liked it or not, dealing with Kasumigaoka was probably going to be my next priority. Honestly, it's like I'm going through a checklist of the most important people I'm going to associate with or something.

"Hikigaya-san, I'm just doing my part as her editor, and we both know too well that only you can solve whatever grief is consuming her."

Is it that bad? Geez…

"What do you really want?" I ask in exasperation, "I told you I'd handle it later, I'm not going to leave it like that." I release a weary sigh, noting the rain is strong again. "Or what? You want me to go find her right now? As if."

Silence came for a few seconds, and stayed there, waiting when I suddenly realized her true intentions for the call. This does not only want me to fix things with Kasumigaoka, but she did want me to fix it now.

"Oi, it's raining now, and it's not just a light drizzle," I spoke dryly.

This time she does respond, "Don't you have an umbrella?"

Well, I now have one, but that doesn't mean I would be up for it, besides, my uniform is close to wet since I only got the umbrella after getting to the shelter.

"It's late already. If I were to catch a train, it would be the last one and I wouldn't be able to get back," I respond calmly.

"Well, it's either now, or, well… let's say she'll be very busy for the next few days with the incoming interviews. Preparing for them and the announcement of her new story will make her unreachable," I narrow my gaze as her tone took on a serious ring, "I'm her editor, I know."

"I'll be very busy next week, for my exams. I'm a student, I know." I mimic her sarcastically.

A notification arrives with a ring of my phone, signalling a message from Machida. She chuckles lightly before speaking again, "I sent you the address of the hotel we're staying 'till tomorrow. Should you decide to show up, no worries about where you'd stay. I got that covered… just in case." I roll my eyes as she lastly adds, "So, it's up to you."

So my academic duties are to be ignored then? Well, I was already ignoring them myself, but she doesn't know that.

What the hell is with this development? Was this really so important that they booked me my own room for the night just to help Kasumigaoka? I didn't even said I would, dammit.

"This hardly seems like a choice," I huff in annoyance, then I add, "I'll think about it, but I wouldn't recommend you waiting for me… just in case."

She lets out another chuckle before saying, "Bye-bye!" After that, the call ends and I'm left staring at the screen of my phone.

The second day of this week on this god forsaken planet and I already have no interest in the rest of the week. Ugh, somehow today was even more aggravating than yesterday was.

Two days, two situations. Onizuka-sensei for Monday, then ruled over most of Tuesday, and now my Tuesday evening will be preoccupied with Kasumigaoka.

Of course I had to go see her. I had no idea how I could fix anything, but I knew I still had to go. I just didn't want to make my acceptance appear too readily. I've noticed that as something surprising by others, Mikan being the latest example Monday morning.

I sigh in exasperation as my thoughts wander to my dyed-blonde temporary homeroom teacher.

Onizuka-sensei will probably become a bigger headache for these next few weeks. That's a given, and I'm not entirely sure what to think of him. He's an idiot, a pervert, and I bet that any student around here is more knowledgeable than him on the subjects taught, not to mention that he uses violence to solve problems… but…

He never lied, or pretended to be a correct individual. He admitted his pervertedness (which isn't necessarily a good thing), he admitted that he was a bad student, that he became a delinquent because teachers abused their status and treated him badly. He used violence to defend a student from a similar situation, and he didn't seem to regret it… at all.

Everything he did or said, he truly believed in it.

Yeah, we later got that ridiculousness of him wanting to become GDO or whatever, but once Onizuka-sensei knew he had a chance to actually become a full-fledged educator at Sobu, he did the impossible and made it back to the school in time for the interview with Sakurai-sensei despite the distance. Though I'd rather not think how many times my heart almost exploded during the ride though…

In all, he was honest, not only to Sobu, but to himself. I think that was the most shocking thing about him. He admitted to every one of his classmates his inadequacies as a teacher and even why he was even hired in the first place. Honestly, I wouldn't have been surprised if he overcompensated for his shortcomings and tried making his high worth demand respect from others. Yet he did the exact opposite.

That may be something that can redeem him… probably.

After I looked at the address of the hotel, which is not in Chiba City… geez… Why on earth are they in Sakura City? I check the map to see it was north from here. Am I really going to another city out of nowhere just to go see Kasumigaoka? Aki's school is in Chiba, so why on earth is she…

Wait, her editor is accompanying her, so they must have been called for some authors' convention or something… I guess…

I should wait for her to come back, I'm pretty sure she must live in this city for her to attend Aki's school… right?

I knew I had to handle that woman, but I can't make up my mind. This is becoming too much trouble, dammit!

I pocket my phone and I look over my shoulder, to the path that will lead me to the Chiba Station. I stare at it within the falling drops of water before sighing, finally reaching a decision.

"Shit…" I mutter, "Here we go again…"

---

Chapter 08 END

---

GTH The Hostess (Great Teacher Hiratsuka)

There was a fairly tall woman with long, black hair that reached below her waist, some strands sticking out her neck, whose gray eyes flickered with utter annoyance. A lab-like jacket over a black vest, a dress shirt and a loose tie underneath it, with black pants and a brown belt completing her outfit.

Said woman was sat cross-legged by the left side of a large table, used as a meeting room for the staff of the school. She merely glanced at the other persons sat at both her sides before resting her elbows over the table's surface.

Then her gaze was directed forward, to where a camera recorded and sent a live transmission to the readers.

"Hello readers, I'm Hiratsuka Shizuka. One of the supporting characters in the light novels you all know as Oregairu." A smile adorned her pretty face, "But I'm not here to talk about myself, but of this chapter's new characters."

"What…?" A male voice was heard in the room. "What is this!?"

The camera focuses on her as she winked, "Alright then, then let's begin." She glanced at both her sides, to the people looking back at her. "Well, since most of you belong to a certain manga series, let's start with the only one that doesn't," Hiratsuka looked to the woman with short black hair dressed with a black blazer. "Would you mind?"

Said woman shrugged her shoulders, "Sure, why not?" She stood from her chair, light blue eyes glancing around before facing the camera. "I'm Machida Sonoko, a supporting character in the light novels Saekano. I'm Kasumi Utako's editor and I work in Fushikawa Shoten." With that, she turned to Hiratsuka, "That's about it."

Machida took her seat as the hostess's gaze was directed to her left, a bespectacled old woman gazing calmly at her, "Would you continue?"

A chuckle escaped her lips as the older woman stood on her feet, "As the rest of characters to come, I'm Sakurai Ryoko, a supporting character in the manga series Great Teacher Onizuka, mostly known as GTO. I'm the headmaster of the prestigious Seirin Academy."

Sakurai sits back and Hiratzuka then urges the next person at the bespectacled woman's side to continue. This person was a beautiful woman with brown eyes, short hair that expanded to the sides by her neck.

"I'm Fuyutsuki Azusa, supporting character in GTO and teacher in the Seirin Academy," She bows respectfully. "Pleased to meet you all."

Hiratsuka nods, also pleased with Fuyutsuki's simple presentation.

"Wait a minute, wasn't I supposed to-" The same voice as before is heard once more.

"Alrighty then," Turning to her right this time, Hiratsuka motioned her head for the next person to continue.

The man in question smirked, who had tied, rather long dark blue hair, tan skin and wore glasses, "Well, I'm Damna Ryuji, also a supporting character in GTO, a close friend of some lazy pervert, and also a member of the infamous Oni-baku. My first appearance alongside some idiot's as teenagers comes in the mangas Bad Company and Shonan Junai Gumi."

"Interesting," Commented the hostess before shooting an uninterested glance to a sulking baldman at Ryuji's side. "So you were?"

"I'm-"

"Oi! Why am…!?" Snapped a blonde with short hair, wearing a white suit. "I'm the host here!"

Hiratsuka ticked a brow, "Oi, you! Don't go interrupting others' presentations and wait your turn!" She returned her attention to the bespectacled bald man. "You were saying?"

"I'm-"

"And why am I last!? I'm the protagonist, you know? My name it's even on the title!"

Damna sighs, "Idiot! Stop making a fuss!"

"Tch! You wanna make it a problem!?" The blonde barked angrily.

Hiratsuka exchanges a glance with Sakurai while Fuyutsuki tried to calm them down, to no avail, when suddenly…

*SLAM!

The man with no hair had raised from his seat, slamming a hand on the table, "How much are you all going to ridicule me!?"

*SLAM!*

Everyone blinked at his outburst as he continued, "Bad enough that I have to share my presentation with that monkey in the same segment, and now I'm not even allowed to make it!?"

*SLAM!*

"Why do I have to stand the idiocies of this poor excuse for a teacher! What's with the blond hair and piercings anyway!?"

*SLAM!*

"The thought of having to keep dealing with you is…"

*SLAM!*

"Unacceptable!"

*SLAM!* *SLAM!* *SLAM!*

"Unacceptable!" His crazed face, almost red and sweating, turned to the blonde, "No matter what it takes, I will kick you out of this school!"

*SLAM!*

One last slam echoed inside the room, utter silence and surprised expressions following. The bald man was breathing hard, hands rested on the table's surface as he slowly relaxed, "Alright… I'm Uchiyamada Hiros-"

"WHOA!" Onizuka made an awed sound, holding in his hand a 5000 yen bill, "I found good money under the table!"

And before Hiratsuka could even blink, both Damna and Fuyutsuki found themselves holding Uchiyamada by his arms, "I'm gonna kill him! Kill him!"

Ignoring the scene, the blonde smirked, his teeth releasing a shining light, "So it's my turn?" He pointed a thumb at himself, "I'm Onizuka Eikichi, 22 years old!" He approached Hiratsuka with a perverted face, "Still single…"

Unfortunately for him, the frustratingly-as-single woman still had standards, so a punch on his face was in order, courtesy of the hostess.

The only door in the room is slammed open by a girl with light blue hair, her face close to becoming a crying mess, "I also appeared on the chapter! Why am I not getting a presentation!?"

Hiratsuka sweat drops at that, "We all know you're Aqua from KonoSuba," She reveals with a roll of her eyes.

"THAT'S NOT FAIR!" She whines loudly, "I deserve my time to shi-"

"Well, I guess this is it," She says between shouts, getting close to the camera. "See you all in the next chapter!"

---

(NirvFrk97): We got jokes and le m3m3s (Am I doing this right?). Thanks for being patient as we wrote this. You know how it goes, life gets in the way, yada yada. Hopefully the next chapter will come out sooner (don't count on it). Now if you don't mind, I'm gonna go cry about the Dodgers being knocked out in the first round of the Postseason… See you guys then.

Itherael: Well, there is not much to say than thanks for reading and supporting the story. I had many issues with work and two certain individuals, so I barely had free time for writing. I hope this long chapter made up for the wait.

I can assure you that the next chapter will be very interesting, you all know on who will it be focussing, so it's not much of a surprise.

Comments, advice or anything in your mind is welcomed.

- Frank