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Girls and Cake
I don't believe in superstition such as fate or karma. I'm not too fond of the idea that my actions are all predetermined and free will is an illusion. I prefer to think life as a bit more systematic, albeit a chaotic one. Things in life can usually be broken down to consequence and 's always a cause and effect for each action and decision, even if we can't discern what action caused what reaction. For example, It was a coincidence that me and Gunha shared the same dream. But it was a consequence of choice that led us to be friends.
So right now I was attempting to understand why the information that I wanted had to be obtained through another Level 5 was through coincidence or consequence. Not to mention she's enrolled at the prestigious Tokiwadai Middle school which is filled with girls who are Level 3 or higher. A mob character such as myself has no reason to be there other than to show the huge gap in class.
While at this point I would sigh to myself and continue complaining about my circumstances, another issue seemingly followed me to Tokiwadai. One that had to be addressed...
"Gunha… What are you doing?"
He returned my question with a quizzical stare. "Riding a bus, same as you."
"I see that but why? Shouldn't you be doing your daily patrols? Or accompanying Ayumi?" I've never seen him actually take the bus. He normally just 'jumps' everywhere.
He nodded in agreement. "Ah yeah, but today I got somewhere to be. I have to get something. No matter what."
A serious expression came over him, something which was rarely seen by others, myself included. "Gunha… What exactly are you getting?"
His face remained stoic as he laced his fingers together. "You haven't experienced Ayumi's 'remedial' lessons, right?" Remedial lessons? I shook my head. "Those 'lessons' that she so readily prepares are guts draining. They lack any sense of kindness or delicacy that she normally portrays." Kind and delicate are opposite of the words I would use to describe Ayumi. "She shows no mercy and her sessions can go beyond the point of exhaustion. It's worse than torture or any kind of pain I've experienced. I don't want to add more sessions than I already have. To avoid that worse case scenario, I'm heading to School Garden to buy a seasonal limited cake."
I'm afraid to ask what entails these… 'remedial' lessons. If it has Sogiita Gunha wary, then perhaps not knowing is best for everyone. I placed my right hand on his shoulder to show my support. "I don't know what you've endured in my absence, but keep going. I'll support you however I can."
"Then will you come with me for the next one?"
With an honest to goodness smile on my face I gave an immediate response. "No."
He gave me a blank stare before returning to his natural grin, "Haha! I kinda expected that response but I thought you would at least think about it."
"As much as I like you and Ayumi, I see you guys enough throughout the day. No need for me to experience that hell."
"Oh?" His grin grew even wider, "You added Ayumi in that statement."
Huh?
A punchable smirk slid its way onto his face as he teased me. "I didn't think you guys would get along at all. Ah! Did she confess in the hospital after I left the room?"
"No." I deadpanned. "She just wanted to talk about some sensitive information relating to you. It's really nothing for you to worry about." I didn't want to expunge all the details about our conversation, as he would most likely leap headfirst into action without a plan. Even if his opponent was something as big as Academy City, he wouldn't hesitate to swing his fist to reach his target. While I do admire his simple mindedness at times, this would just be suicidal. I don't even know who our enemy truly is. Involving Gunha right now is not what I want right now.
As expected though, Gunha's expression soured after hearing those words. "If it's important and related to me, don't you think I should know?"
"If you knew the current situation, you would definitely run off on your own and try to resolve it with violence. And to be perfectly honest, you would fail spectacularly."
Gunha retorted with unfounded confidence, " You don't know that for sure unless I try."
"This isn't a kind of problem you can simply punch in the face. It's more complicated than that. We can't have you involved just yet."
"Yet?"
I let out a sigh of irritation before continuing, "Of course you're going to be involved you idiot. This whole problem is centered around you and I have no intention of resolving issues you created."
"Eh? But… You?" At this point Gunha was attempting to sort his thoughts into words but it only came off as rambling.
"You're a hot-blooded idiot who jumps in headfirst into situations without seeing the whole picture causing more problems for everyone! That's why right now you should leave it to me and Ayumi! We're trying to get to a point where violence is not needed. But until we get to that point, just leave it to us Gunha." Now I probably sound like an idiot! I'm speaking so confidently with a broken arm and swollen face!
Gunha didn't laugh though. He didn't berate me for not relying on his strength or trying to hide the situation from him. He didn't get angry or try to pressure me into telling him. Instead, he firmly nodded his head and agreed with me. "Okay. I got it." Out all the responses I expected, I did not brace myself for that one.
"Eh?" I was taken aback by his lack of resistance. "What? No 'If you guys are fighting, I'll fight alongside you!' Or 'Even with that argument, I still want to know what's going on!' You're being strangely cooperative Gunha!"
"You said it yourself, I'm an idiot." There was an undertone of self loathing when he said those words. "If it's something more complicated than punching or saving, I'm at a loss at what I can do. That's why," His grimmed face returned to his natural smile, "If the best course of action is to trust you and Ayumi, I don't mind!"
Once again Gunha surprised me. "So you're going to trust us? Just like that?"
"It isn't just like that!" He quickly corrected. "Kouta, you're my best friend!"
"Can't really say that's mature or naive… Either way I appreciate you relying on us for once."
Once again Gunha did something surprising by releasing a sigh of relief. "To be honest, I'm just relieved you guys are getting along."
The bus came to a stop near School Garden and Gunha began leaving his seat. "Well, this is my stop. Later!"
I absentmindedly nodded my head as it took a second for me to register what was happening.
Gunha's going to School Garden? I wonder what for?
Wait! Wait! Isn't School Garden that all girls paradise? Boys aren't allowed in!
But…
Gunha's going to School Garden. Gunha's going to School 's going to School Garden.
"Gunha's going to School Garden!" Pain erupted throughout my body as I hastily jumped out of my seat to chase after the Level 5. I pressed through the on-boarding passengers, ignoring the gazes of school girls wondering why a beat up high school boy was trying to get off at the School Garden stop.
"Gunha!" I shouted at the top of my lungs as soon as I stepped off the bus, only to find him inches away from my position.
"Y-Yo." He managed a proper greeting despite my strange outburst.
Then I could feel it. The stares of people gazing at us, questioning my sanity. Never in my life have I been so embarrassed by my own actions that at the time I wished to be a clam or deep sea fish so no one could see my beet red face. Refusing to look anyone in the eyes, I grabbed Gunha's arm and swiftly walked as far away as I could from that bus stop!
What the heck am I doing? Yelling at the top of my lungs! Is this some kind of romance drama? How embarrassing! I wanna die right now! Please someone kill me right now!
"Kouta." He called out to me but I refused to lift my head. Kouuuuta!"
"Can you at least wait till we get someplace where no one can see me!"
He then firmly stopped my momentum. I couldn't budge him as he refused to move. "Kouta! You're bleeding!"
"Huh? Bleeding?" before I could ask, I noticed the trail of blood leading from the bus stop on the sidewalk. I grasped at the bandages around my head to find the source of bleeding but to no avail. I glanced down to see where the blood was coming from before I realized it.
My mouth? I began wiping at my mouth with the sleeve of my costume. Did a stitch in my mouth break loose? Do I even have stitches in my mouth? I recalled Nakamura-san listing the issues and medical treatment given to me but I didn't give it too much thought as I could hardly feel any pain.
"It's fine! I don't feel any pain at the moment. I guess one of my stitches came loose but honestly, I feel great!" I tried to reassure Gunha but concern still held his face. "You said you would trust us with this right? So at least trust me to know my own limits! I'm not just going to keel over and die. Plus, I was released from the hospital. If I was in truly terrible shape, don't you think those medical experts would let a half-broken kid roaming the streets?" I left the part out where Nakamura-san practically ordered me to go straight home if I left the hospital.
My body was probably at its limits. Thankfully enough I was filled with drugs so I could hardly feel the stress building up inside me. How long would they last? All I needed was to see Shokuhou Misaki or at least establish a contact with her. Time was against me. How long would it take to get the information? How long before our 'enemy' realizes what we're trying to achieve? And before even all this…
How long to gain Shokuhou Misaki's trust? Being a level 5 from Tokiwadai no least would certainly attract some unwanted attention from those who would use the 'acquaintance' of a level 5. Not to mention Tokiwadai is filled with the daughters of some aristocrats so she might be one of those spoiled rich girls who rarely ventures out of School Garden. Getting Shokuhou to trust me is my first hurdle. After I find her of course.
I could tell he didn't agree with my reasoning but he nodded his head. "I got it." was all he added to end that topic. We silently continued walking until I remembered why I jumped off the bus in the first place!
"Wait Gunha! One more thing! You can't go into School Garden!" I can't believe that almost slipped my mind!
"Why?"
"Because It's an all girls paradise where no men are allowed~." A cutesy voice answered his question. We both turned to the source to find a tall blonde woman dressed in a standard Anti-Skill her cute voice and bright smile she greeted us with, there was a distinct aura around her that made her seem unapproachable. Was it the uniform? Maybe the large main gate behind her which was the main entrance to said School Garden? Perhaps it was the baton so readily displayed at her hip coupled with that unnerving smile?
And easily breaking through that unapproachable aura was Sogiita Gunha. "But why are guys not allowed in?"
"Who knows~?" was her simple answer. "All I do is greet the girls who come and go and deter anyone who isn't allowed~."
I refused to ask how she 'deterred' those who were adamant about getting in. "See Gunha. They even got Anti-Skill. So just give-!" Before I could begin to calm him down, he already launched himself high in the sky to the point where he was barely visible. "Y-you idiot! Don't just jump over the barrier! And isn't that way too high!" Even though I know he couldn't hear me, I couldn't help but react at his outrageous feats.
Seriously, when that guy decides on something he refuses to acknowledge the word 'restraint'. Now that I think about it…
"What exactly does he need from School Garden that Ayumi wanted?" Whatever the case, I was left with the Anti-Skill officer who retained her smile. "Ah. I apologize for my friends lack of common sense." It was awkward apologizing for Gunha despite myself being innocent.
"Hmmm? Why are you apologizing? It's not like you could have done anything to stop him." Her stagnant smile and cheery tone were beginning to grain on me. Shouldn't there be a limit for how passive aggressive someone can be?
I left the matter with Gunha aside as there was nothing I could do but hope that the repercussions for his actions wouldn't affect me. I still had my own destination and goal. The Gemstone List. The list which resulted in someone breaking into Academy City and thoroughly beating Gunha as a show of force, I doubt Shokuhou is just going to let me see it if I ask nicely. I need to somehow convince her I have no bad intentions. I can hardly explain my own situation as I know maybe half of what's going on.
Should I go with the 'Kihara Family are Evil' explanation? Or somehow create an elaborate lie? After a few minutes of mulling it over I came to a conclusion. "Honesty might be the best bet here." While I would rather leave out details that may place her life in danger, lying to her might produce negative consequences and distance myself from my goal. If the worst comes to and I can't get any info from her then I'm down to trying to find a gemstone on my own. If this is my only lead, I need to tread carefully as to not ruin it.
Thankfully, my destination was only a short distance from the bus stop. The Tokiwadai dorms loomed over me. While the outside of the dorm appeared quite normal, I could sense the overall importance of this dorm. It wouldn't be a far cry of a comparison to that of a low level npc somehow making his way to the demon lord's castle. I cautiously approached the main entrance, receiving curious glances from the early morning traffic of girls leaving the dorm. As I entered, the automatic doors slid open to reveal the high class looking lobby. From the velvet and gold colored rugs to the expensive looking chandelier. Just entering the dorm revealed the huge gap between me and these high class girls. A mixture of envy and admiration swelled up within me.
What's with this lobby? Are those real plants as the decor? Why is the living arrangements so extravagant for some middle school girls!? I get why but that doesn't mean it doesn't still hurt. After moving into the Nagatenjouki dorms, I realized just how small and shabby my old dorm room was.
Swallowing my envy, I reached the call panel and began searching for Shokuhou Misaki. That's when I found another problem.
None of the rooms have the names listed! I don't even know what room Shokuhou is in! Wait , I can call Ayumi. She'll probably knows which room she's in! I reached inside my costume to pull out my phone only to grab at air…
Wh-where's my phone? I know I had it last night? I thoroughly patted myself down with my usable arm, ignoring the stings of pain as I did so.
"You've got to be kidding me…" I muttered aloud to myself as the sequence of events began rapidly unfolding. I made it all the way here with a broken arm and a vampire outfit only to turn away because I failed to obtain vital information. Stupid. Stupid. Stupid!
"You." A sharp voice interrupted my self reprimand. I did an olympic 180 turn to see a woman in a dark blue suit and with shoulder length brown hair. She also wore glasses that emphasized her sharp glare which reminded of a certain iron maiden. "What are you doing here?"
Ah! She probably thinks I'm some kind of suspicious person! You're wrong! Even though I look like this, I'm a completely innocent person who isn't prone to violence! "I'm Kazeyare Kouta Ma'am!" I performed a light bow to display my respect for the woman. "I'm just here to see Shokuhou Misaki!" Gah! I probably seem even more suspicious since I'm here to see a Level 5!
Her paralyzing glare remained on me for some time before she turned around. "Come with me." her concise order made it clear I had no other choice. I quickly marched behind the woman as we headed toward a locked door on the ground floor. Is this the dorm supervisors personal room? We entered the room to find it was nothing more than a break room. Or perhaps a guest room? Within the center were two large velvet leather couches with a small glass table between. There was also a small kitchen like area along with a large Television in the far corner. It was almost a functional dorm room minus the bathroom and missing bed but even then, this guest room was still better than my previous living conditions!
"Sit." another quick command reached my ears and I obediently sat in the comfortable couch. However my tense body did not allow me to enjoy the luxurious place. I had no idea what the woman had in mind when she brought me here. What I wouldn't give to read minds right now!
"Would you like some tea?" Surprisingly, she asked me a normal question.
"Ah yes please." I didn't put too much thought into my response as I honestly didn't want to oppose her in any way.
"If you're here to see Shokuhou Misaki, I can only see a variety of reasons why. As a Level 5, she's one of our more popular residents." I could her the clanging of cups and and pans as she talked. "If she has caused you any issues, I deeply apologize for any inconvenience she may have caused you and I can assure you, she will be heavily reprimanded." Though my back was turned to her, I could feel an ominous aura emanating from the Dorm Supervisor.
Scary! This woman is definitely scary! "However, I cannot condone any violent or inappropriate actions toward her. I advise if you have any qualms with her, you put them aside or produce a valid report to either Anti-Skill or Judgment of any incidents."
"No No. I don't have any issues with Shokuhou Ma'am! I just really want to talk to her." I hastily explained. I'd rather not meet her with that kind of misunderstanding.
"Talk? About what exactly?" She placed the recently brewed cup of tea on the table and sat opposite of me.
Crap! I can't talk about the Gemstone list or the Kihara Family! Did I somehow manage to get on the Bad End route? "I'm sorry, but I can't say. It's very important that I talk to her in person." Her face remained stoic, unmoved by my stonewall answer. No good huh? I should've realized it would be difficult to talk to her. I'll try tomorrow after I get her room number.
"Youth, huh? Must be nice." The Dorm Supervisor muttered something under her breath before standing up. "Fine. I'll see if she's here."
"Really?" My enthusiasm practically gushed from my mouth. I didn't expect her to let me see her! I'd thought she was some ice woman! But she's actually quite nice! "Thank you very much!"
"But are you sure you want to meet her now? Your current image isn't…. Appealing."
I had almost forgotten. I was still in my vampire outfit. My dyed black hair was a mess, and half of my face is swollen. "It's fine! Even though I look like this, I can still relay my message across." It didn't really matter what I look like, as long as she didn't perceive me as a threat.
"Oh? Quite confident in yourself, aren't you?" Hm? She left the room before I could inquire what she meant. I patiently sat and drank the tea in silence for a while before the door once again opened. "Kazeyare Kouta?" I was surprised by her quick trip. Does Shokuhou perhaps live on one of the lower floors? "I apologize but it appears Shokuhou Misaki isn't here. She headed out earlier to one of the research development facilities in School Garden. I suggest you come back at a later time."
"I see…" The odds are really stacked against me, aren't they? Not that I helped my case in any way by not knowing which room she lives in. "I'll guess I'll come back tomorrow."
"I would advise against that." Once again her stern glare pierced me. "Judging by your appearance, it seems you recently received medical treatment, correct?" With my words stuck in my throat I could only nod swiftly to the question. Scary! She's giving off a scary vibe again! "Most likely you were released earlier this morning, probably on the condition you head straight to your dorm and get some bed rest? Yet here you are."
"Yes! I'm sorry!" How many times have I said that to Judgment? Or even Anti-Skill for that matter? And for once it was due to my own actions!
"Take care of yourself. It's good to enjoy your youth but don't push too hard." She guided me out to the main entrance as she continued to reprimand me for my recklessness. As a high school boy it was extremely embarrassed to be scolded right in front of an all girls middle school dorm! "I'll tell Shokuhou when she returns that you were here. Is that fine?"
Despite her harsh tone and aura, I could tell she meant well. She honestly reminded me of my mom. Harsh but caring and fair. "Yes! If you could do that I would greatly appreciate it!"
I departed from the dorms feeling slightly defeated. I've accomplished absolutely nothing! All I did was get my ass chewed by that scary Dorm Supervisor! I released a long sigh, "I can't even try tomorrow to see Shokuhou."
"Correct~! With the Dorm Supervisor's watching ability, I doubt you'll get away with just a light scolding next time." A cutesy voice responded to my eternal dismay.
Without paying much attention, I continued with the conversation. "That was a light scolding? I heard about how strict Tokiwadai could be but how can anyone withstand a daily dose of that?"
"Well, to be fair to her, if you don't do anything bad, she won't scold you. But enough about that! Why do you want to see Shokuhou Misaki so badly?"
"To clear up this giant conspiracy surrounding Gunha! Seriously, it's been nothing but trouble since we've met and now-" I paused my venting to fully grasp my current situation. I glanced to my side to see a petite girl donning a Tokiwadai uniform. She had her long black hair tied up in two cute pigtails which only removed years from the girls appearance.
The young girl was seemingly keeping pace despite her smaller strides while also continuing the conversation. "Hm? What's up? Did you forget something?" While her question was quite innocent, there was an entirely different issue to discuss.
"Wait. Before that, who are you?"
The girl pondered about for a bit before responding, "Just a curious girl striking a conversation with a random stranger."
Her ludicrous answer halted me in my stride. What kind of reasoning is that? "Listen , little miss. The world is full of dangerous strangers. Even if you are a powerful esper, talking to suspicious people or following strangers to secluded areas should be avoided at all cost. Understand?" Someone had to set this little miss straight before it led to something dangerous.
Little miss stared blankly at me before bursting in a fit of laughter. "Pfft! Hahaahahaha! What's with that? You sound like an Elementary school teacher!"
Her laughter brought up a bit of embarrassment within me. What's with her? I'm only trying to teach her that the world isn't all rainbows and unicorns then she wants to laugh it up? Fine! Don't blame me if you're on T.V. tomorrow being held ransom! Just know that the kind and gracious Kazeyare Kouta tried to warn you!
"I thought you were a part of that due to all the commotion last night, but it seems I was mistaken."
That? What exactly is that?
"But since it's obvious you're not, that means you willingly walked here dressed like that with a broken arm demanding to see a Level 5! Either you're a brave soul or a one of a kind idiot!"
Ouch! Why you gotta attack me like that princess? "Little miss. As I am a kind gentleman of sorts, let me educate on something you may not know. Words can hurt."
"Hehe. Sorry! I didn't mean to offend you. But you should consider yourself lucky. Running into that very Level 5 you're looking for is so fortunate for you, don't you think?"
"Eh?"
"I forgot to introduce myself. How rude of me." She performed a cutesy twirl and finished it off with a idol esque pose. "Shokuhou Misaki, at your service~"
I was beginning to wonder what brought me here… Coincidence or consequence? Or maybe both?
"So how's the report going Watanabe?" Without so much as a proper phone greeting, Hasabe went directly into work mode. Even over the phone her voice had an overwhelming presence.
My hand ruffled in my short black hair as I tried to organize my thoughts. "A-as I said before Senpai, School Garden is such a big place. Finding a secret underground tunnel system that leads to multiple illegal labs is downright impossible for just one person, don'tcha think?" After absentmindedly running about for the last 30 minutes and steadily noticing the stares of other people, I just wanted to dig a hole a die!
"What are you saying Watanabe? Are you not a part of Kirigaoka's journalist club?"
"Um I am but-"
"And Isn't it your duty to write interesting stories and reveal secrets about Academy City?"
"Y-yes but-"
"Your journalist spirit should be burning right now! There's been so many rumors popping up since the war! We need to capitalize on this and create our best paper yet! And with your power it should be a piece of cake!" No good. She isn't listening to me. "So did you find anything?"
I could only let out a sigh of defeat. "No. All I've found is a couple of night patrols… And a cat."
"Hmm? A cat? Maybe an escapee from an illegal cloning facility?" No Hasabe… It was just a stray cat.
"Perhaps we should do a piece on something more… relevant? Such as hot spots in School Garden? Or even do some interviews with Anti-Skill? Ask them how the war affected them? Maybe a fluff piece on top 10 dating spots in Academy City?" Please! Anything but more rumor chasing!
Hasabe remained quiet on the line before she finally spoke, "I see, you might be onto something Watanabe!" N-no way!? Is she taking my suggestions seriously? "If we posted our huge findings on the front page, it wouldn't be long before the 'cleaners' come and erased everything we've found. But if something boorish like best dating spots or top 10 eateries, we can quietly spread the truth!" No Hasabe! That isn't what I meant! "This is actually perfect! I've just got a lead on the 'Imaginary Number District.' You can do the boring work on that fluff piece. Later." She hung up before I could muster a rebuttal.
While it wasn't a complete defeat, I wouldn't call it a victory either. I returned my phone to my pocket and pulled out my black gloves. While they weren't stylish in the slightest nor did they match with Kirigaoka's color scheme, by this point it was a force of habit.
"Now then," I spoke aloud to focus my thoughts, "What should I do my piece on?" For now, I'll head to the main plaza area.
That's when I noticed something strange.
Or rather, someone strange. In the middle of the park, a strange person with a rather heavy voice was casually walking about attempting to talk to anyone. Key word: attempting as any group or person that spotted him immediately veered or downright ran away. No surprise though as his presence here should be considered impossible. What was Sogiita Gunha doing in the middle of School Garden? As I continued to watch from afar, he turned to face me and we made eye contact.
"Ah! Excuse me miss!" He began walking toward me and I nervously backed away.
After witnessing the opening of the Daihaseisai, it only took a single glance to see that this guy was nothing but trouble! My backwards pace was halted as I lost my footing and fell flat on my rear. "Kyahhh!" I released a high shrill as I fell that surprised even myself. If it wasn't for my long skirt, I'm sure my position would have been much more embarrassing! It didn't help my case when my camera hanging from my neck practically rammed into my chest as I fell.
"You okay miss?" I looked up to find the boy had caught up to me but had extended his hand to help me up.
"I-I'm fine!" I picked myself up, not accepting his help. "B-but more importantly Sogiita-kun, what are you doing in School Garden?" I took a few more precautionary steps back to ensure a safer distance from the boy. "You should leave as soon as possible. Males aren't allowed here!"
"Kouta said something like that too. Why?" he stepped in here knowing that and now he's asking why?
"It doesn't m-matter why! You'll be in big trouble if someone finds you here!" Rather, there's a multitude of theories and possible answers. Mainly the one dealing with politicians and dignitaries paying off Academy city to protect their daughters and create a false sense of security. There's also the theory to protect some of the more dangerous experiments of Academy City by confining and limiting the traffic going through.
The level 5 boy didn't seem perturbed by my reasoning. In fact, he seemed more determined. "Everyone's making a big deal about no boys. No boys. No boys. Why are boys not allowed? We can be just as gutsy as girls!" I don't think guts has anything to do with it. "Regardless! I can't leave just yet! Not until I find that seasonal cheesecake!" He declared it so boldly that I almost felt bad for trying to stop him.
Nevertheless, I continued to try and dissuade the level 5, "You don't understand Sogiita-kun. It's a big offense for someone like you to be here. Even if you're one of the seven level 5's, you'll be in big trouble! Is some cake really worth all that?"
With those words, the boy lost all life in his face and only a somber expression remained. "It's not just a cake. It's my escape." for once his voice lowered to a tolerable decibel. "Right now obtaining this cake is my only chance of victory… If I can't… I'm not sure my mind will endure an extended session!"
Session? Session of what exactly? What kind of session are you forced to endure that you would risk being called a level 5 pervert? Don't tell me you're being blackmailed? How? Who? My brain was racing for answers as the level 5 boy confided his fear to me.
"So! For that very reason!" In an instant, he was down on his hands and knees with his head bowed. "Please tell me where they're selling the special seasonal cheesecake!"
"S-stop that! That's embarrassing!" I could feel my ears practically burning up. Even though no one but myself was around to see it, a boy openly bowing to a girl is not a normal image! "I know where they are selling the special cakes. I-I'll buy some for you so please get up."
"Really!" Just as quickly as he got down, he hopped to his feet and closed the distance between us that I was attempting to keep. "Aw thanks miss! Don't know what I would've done if I didn't meet such a gutsy girl! But you don't have to go so far as to buy them for me! Showing me the way is enough!"
"As I said before Sogiita-kun, it would be troublesome if people saw you." Especially for me! "How about this? You wait here and I'll purchase the cake for you. Then you can pay me back some other time?" I clasped my hands together, begging the level 5 to accept my proposal. His face soured a bit at the request.
He didn't seem like the kind of guy to push is issues on other people… Not knowingly anyway. "Hmmm." his face scrunched up as he was thinking of the offer. "I don't want to cause trouble for anybody by being here. But I don't want to push my request on someone I just met." He's really agonizing over this huh? "Fine. I'll accept it! I'll wait right here until you return!"
His voice returned to a loud declaration. "A-alright. Just please try to stay out of sight and avoid other people. This park doesn't have much traffic around this time so as long as you don't create a scene… It 'should' be fine." I honestly didn't know if it was such a good idea to leave him alone, but going along with him would be a guarantee disaster.
He nodded in agreement and I ran as fast as I could to Starry Sweets. In total my trip was only about 8 minutes but I was nearly dying by the time I returned to the park. Those 8 minutes were filled with dreaded thoughts of what might happen leaving him there alone. Arrested? Maybe a fight? Or he wandered off to some more populated place? What if he talked about me? I could be in a worse position! Aiding a crime! Even when I returned my body refused to relax until I saw his white clothes in the distance, still sitting on the bench where I left him. Soon as I did, my body began to experience the pain I was previously ignoring. My legs began to buckle as I wasn't particularly the athletic type and my chest probably acquired a few bruises from my camera. Nevertheless, I returned with cake in tow and no incidents had occurred while I was gone.
"Oh! Wow your fast miss! You really poured all your guts into helping some stranger!" He presented a heartwarming smile on his face which made me go red in the face.
I turned away and pressed his food toward him. "I-it was no problem! I-I just didn't want you to cause a scene over a misunderstanding!" What's with that bright smile? It's almost cheating! I placed my hand over my chest to calm myself down while also attempting to catch my breath. "N-now that you have your cake, you can quietly leave right?"
"That's the plan. But I can leave yet. Not until I repay those guts of yours."
Me doing this has nothing to do with guts, Sogiita-kun. "It's fine. You can just pay me back at a later date."
"No. A man must always repay his debts in full as quickly as possible!" Sogiita-kun please! I want to go home and shower! I could feel my hands drenched in my winter gloves. My clothes began sticking to my skin and the winter breeze pierced my jacket. I held those words to myself. I didn't want to come off abrasive. I knew Sogiita meant well and I thought it unfair as he did go along with my idea. "I got it! You like to take pictures right?" he suddenly announced.
"Huh? Ah yes. It's for my school's journalism club."
"Then I know the perfect place!"
We're leaving now? "J-just give me a second to catch my breath please." I had no idea what place he was talking about but I was in no condition to go anywhere!
He casually waved off my concern. "Ah you won't be walking. This time, I'll do all the work! But first hold this for me please." He returned the box of cakes into my hand.
Then without warning he smoothly swept me off my feet and into his arms princess styled. "S-s-ss-Sogiita-kun!" My embarrassment reached max as he gently carried me. "W-w-w-what here? S-s-s-stoppppppp!" I'm not even sure what I said were proper words!
"It's fine." Instead of his boisterous voice, calm and soothing words echoed in my ears. "Just hold on tight and trust in my guts." Even though that didn't make sense, even though I just met this boy today. I believed in those silly words he spoke.
"Okay." was the single word I managed to squeeze out.
As if given the all clear, Sogiita lowered his body to the ground before launching us into the air. It was aggressive and near instantaneous and yet lacking any turbulence or wind. I felt no recoil or backlash from the violent launch. Then I saw it. We were high. Higher than any building in School Garden as far as I could tell. I refused to look down to try to gauge our current height but it was enough. We still had not reached the peak of is jump! Is this the power of a level 5? As we began to decelerate and reach the peak of his jump, a rooftop came into view. This building? It's not in School Garden. I had no idea where we were in relation to anything. My eyes were either closed or focused on what was in front. He gracefully landed but it was a short break before he took off again. Was that not our stop?
"S-Sogiita-kun? May I ask where we are heading?"
"A secret place!" He stated confidently. I remained quiet the remainder of the trip, gawking occasionally at the beautiful sky above. We then reached another tall white building. However this one was lacking a few distinct traits to be called a building. It lacked any windows or any sort of entrance and was the center of many theories surrounding Academy City.
"The windowless building?" I muttered. He landed softly on the building's rooftop and slowly let me down on my feet. I remained motionless as I tried to grasp the situation. As the tallest building in District 7, the sky above the city was clear of any obstructions. As well I could clearly see the outlines of the giant walls. "Beautiful" the word slipped through to describe the sight I was presented.
"Right? You can see the whole city from atop here! Though If Endymion was still standing I would have brought you there."
I frantically shook my head in response. "No no no! This is good enough Sogiita-kun. This is really… Great." I was ecstatic! How often does one stand atop the mysterious Windowless building? While I was interested in shooting some breathtaking photos, I was more interested in the building itself. Maybe there's a secret entrance here? I Might find something if I used my ability… I began to scan the rooftop, searching for anything that might resemble an entrance. Just like the name implies, there's no entrance or gap here either…
"Hmmm?" Sogiita stared quizzically at me. "You aren't going take any pictures?"
Though I clearly heard him, his voice was droned out by my curiosity. I've checked the building before, but that was the base. I might get a different reading if I'm up here. I removed one of my gloved and knelt down to touch the roof. I concentrated my power, Former Sense on the total area of the roof. Besides our recent landing on the roof and a few birds, my ability didn't pick up anything else. I sighed in disappointment before placing my glove back on. "Nothing huh?"
"Excuse me? Miss?" Sogiita had apparently approached me and his face was mere centimeters from mine. I jumped back in surprise and landed on my butt. "Ah. You're back. What exactly were you doing?"
"Ah?" A sense of realization came over what I just did. I completely ignored Sogiita-kun! I was so engrossed about the opportunity to learn about the Windowless Building, I forgot about my surroundings! I picked myself up and attempted to explain myself. "I-I-I was only using my ability to learn about the building! I didn't mean to disregard you, Sogiita-kun!" I bowed in rapid succession, hoping he would forgive my display of disrespect.
"That's fine but what were you trying to learn?" He questioned.
"Anything!" I excitedly blurted out. "As of right now, no one really knows anything concrete on this building. It's purpose, contents or creation. There's no sewage or air circulation system, no entrances or exits. There's no known or logical reason for this building to exist! Learning and discovering mysteries such as this is why I joined the journalism club!"
"Haha! I see! So you love mysteries huh?" I nodded in response. Though sometimes we often chase some crazy rumors and our credibility has steadily dropped for doing so… "My ability is also a mystery. I'm not entirely sure how it works." He stated that nonsense so proudly I believed for a moment he was bragging about it.
"Then how do you use your powers?"
"With guts of course!" Eh? "When your guts begin to swell within you, focus it and then…. FWOOOOM!" He made an exaggerated movement as if something exploded in front of him. "Like that!"
"I-I see…" I have no idea what to make of that description.
After that was relatively uneventful. I took some pictures of the skybox and cityscape while Sogiita was practicing what he called a 'killer technique'.
"I forgot to ask before." Sogiita broke the silence while continuing his practice, "What is your ability? You said you used it to find information?"
"Former Sense?" I clarified. "It allows me to see a bit into the past of whatever item I touched. The bigger the object, the more I could potentially see. Though I can only go back as 26 hours."
"See the past?"
"More like sense the experience the object had. Like I know 30 minutes ago a bird made perch at the corner for a few minutes before taking off. I didn't exactly 'see' the bird but i felt it's lingering presence it that makes sense."
"That's pretty cool! Can you do it to other things? Like people?"
Now onto the part I hate about my power "Yes, although I prefer not to peek into someone else's life." I subconsciously clenched my hands. "That's why I wear my gloves. I use to have a horrible time controlling my power. Now it's just became a habit to wear them." No one likes it when you accidentally see a part of their private life.
"You don't sound too happy when you talk about it like that." Sogiita quickly picked up on my somber tone. "To be honest I'm a bit jealous of an ability like that!" Huh? "To be able to see and experience the same thing as someone else, to feel what they felt and understand why. Such an ability must be really good to connect with people. If someone shares an experience with you, it brings you closer right? I think your ability is filled with guts!"
Was he trying to cheer me on? I couldn't agree with Sogiita on his stance. This power broke more bonds than it will ever create. "I see." I'd rather not push the subject so I responded quite lackluster.
"Looks like you don't agree. Then!" He outstretched his hand toward me. "How about you use that power on me!"
"I would rather not Sogiita-kun. We just met."
"All the better!"
"I don't think it's a good idea. I can't filter out what I experience. I might see something you don't want me too."
"That's true. But we will deal with that with guts when it happens!"
"Again I don't thin-"
"It's fine." He calmly stated. He filled his words with confidence which began tearing away my resistance. "30 minutes. That was around the time when you met me at School Garden. This way you won't have to worry about seeing something you don't want to. Is that good?"
I couldn't tell what he was thinking. I didn't understand this offer to pry into his emotions and thoughts. What did have to gain from me peering into his mind? Was he confident that he had no ill thoughts toward me? I sighed in defeat and removed my glove. "30 minutes okay?"
A triumphant grin appeared. "Okay!"
I slowly reached out to his hand. "Last chance to back out."
"My guts won't allow it!"
"I'll see everything. Even when you were alone in the park."
"I've got nothing to hide! I think?"
"I'll know if you were secretly lau-"
Without warning, his hand grabbed my and laced our fingers together. "See! That wasn't so hard?"
Sogiita's visage disappeared and group of girls in a park took his place. This was when I first saw Sogiita. The girls took off with a frightful look. I felt slightly defeated. Guess I didn't have enough guts. From the corner of my eye I see another girl staring at me from afar.
Nervous. Sogiita was nervous when he saw the girl.
The girl looked quite frail despite her height. Her short black hair frizzed out on the edges and she had a large camera hanging from her neck. Sogiita wasn't sure how to approach her but thought nothing ventured, nothing gained. He gathered up his guts to ask the girl for directions. As the distance closed, she stumbled backwards and fell.
Worried. Sogiita was worried about the well being for that girl he never one met in his life. Was she okay? Did I startle her? Did she have a previous injury? A multitude of thoughts flew by and passed before he settled on asking on the girls status.
Excited. Relief. He experienced those when the girl offered her help. He didn't expect the girl to assist him at all. After so many attempts and failures, he was relieved to find such a girl. Sogiita made a mental note not to judge a book by its cover.
Fear. Not for himself but for the stranger who associated herself with him and could be punished due to his actions. He honestly didn't want to involve the girl any more than ask for directions but her sound logic and adamant stance on the issue made him agree.
Confidence. Gratitude. An abundance of both. He couldn't wait to show the spot to this gutsy girl who bought the cake for him.
Curious. He wondered about the camera and the girls journalist background. What's so special about a windowless building? Why is she so excited about it?
Embarrassment. Her hands were so small and warm in his. Her fingernails were neatly trimmed but her palms were kinda sweaty-
I quickly pulled back my hand and wiped it on my long skirt. I could feel my face burning up as I tried to avoid eye contact.
"Huh? Over already?" He asked unaware of my mental stress.
"Y-y-y-yes. The shorter the time, the easier it is for me to experience it."
"Hmmm. So? How was I?" He boldly asked.
Don't say it like that you idiot! And what exactly do you want me to say? "H-h-how were y-y-you?" I repeated hoping he would word it differently or drop it entirely. He responded with a childish nod, eliminating all escape routes. "You were…" I searched my mind for words that might accurately describe what I felt. "Warm." Though what I blurted out made me want to die on the spot.
"Warm huh?" his eyes fixed on me before turning away. "When you say it like that, it's kinda embarrassing." Then don't make me say it in the first place! I wasn't sure if my heart would hold any longer. If I had any more stimulus it would surely burst from my chest! "But you had a good experience with your power now, right? So it's not all bad!"
I silently agreed as I tried to cool down. "W-well I think we should get going. You still have to deliver those cakes, right?"
"Ah." that audible cue made it clear to me he completely forgot. "Your right! I'm suppose to head straight back too!"
He quickly closed the distance and prepared to pick me up but then I was reminded of something else. When he carried me he felt my skin underneath my clothes. My arm and legs he happily described as 'soft'. Once again my heart was put in overdrive and I frantically waved him away. "J-just give me a second Sogiita-kun!" He wasn't sure how to respond. "I need a moment to prepare my heart."
After a few jumps later, we safely landed on solid ground and I felt relief when my feet connected. It was like reuniting with an old friend. "Thank you again Sogiita-kun! I'll be sure to use these photos for my next article!"
"It was the least I could do! After all, you helped me first! I gotta go now though! Hope to see you soon!" As he was about to take off, he turned back to me. "Actually, I never got your name, miss?"
It's true. All this time I've been calling him but he's never actually addressed me by my name! "It's Watanabe Miko."
"Well then, see you later, Miko-chan!" and like that he took off into the sky. I smiled and thought it a great coincidence I met Sogiita this morning. Despite the initial encounter being not so glamorous it was overall a pleasing experience. Although…
I held my hand to my chest to calm my beating heart. I wished it would've lasted a bit longer.
It was a bit after 12 when I finally arrived at Nagatenjouki dorms. After my meetings with that scary dorm supervisor and that frivolous level 5, my mental capacity was beyond drained. "I'm home." I lazily kicked off my shoes and dragged my body through the living room.
"Ah, welcome back Kazeyare-san." First one to greet me was Ayumi with a mouthful of something. I couldn't make it out what it was but it definitely put her in a good mood. "Anything good come out of that lead?" she asked while removing the plastic fork from her mouth and aggressively stabbing whatever food was in the box.
"Yeah." I barely managed out. "But she's definitely something. She's already arranged a proper meeting next Sunday." I'm already not looking forward to it.
"Good luck." she said as if it had nothing to do with her.
Where's Gunha?" As if on que a loud roar echoed from Ayumi's room.
"ARRRRGGHHHHH! I'll beat it next time! Just you wait!" He declared to his opponent.
"Remedial lessons." her eyes were fixated on the scattered papers across the table as she continued to eat.
While I wanted to know exactly what those 'remedial lessons were, I knew a trap when I saw one. Instead I wished Gunha good luck and continued off to bed. A week until a proper chat with Shokuhou Misaki. Should I just laze around and recover? Or attempt to find my own leads? These were all thought I'll leave for tomorrow.
As you may have noticed, this chapter is a tad longer than usual. You might call it a gift due to my long absence. I did think about breaking the chapter into two separate entities, using Gunha's perspective but as I did so, the story kinda lost its flow. And yes we have yet another OC. Watanabe Miko, Sogiita's hero in his time of need. As we get closer to Gemstone, his circle of acquaintance and friends is slowly growing and being established. I already have something planned for Sunday, not sure which one will come out first but look forward to that. As always if you liked what you read or you don't like it, leave your thoughts in that empty review box thing. I'm open to all forms of criticism as well as ego inflation.
This is Sargent Crash
Crashing Out!