Here we are guys! Chapter 14! This one took a while as people want me to socialize and have human interactions. I don't have much to put here as I'm nearly done with the story in general. I would say 3 or 4 more chapters. Though my Gemstone rewrite project is going slower than expected. As always, I have more to say at the bottom but for now, Enjoy!
Opened Doors Closed Secrets
I woke up in pain. It wasn't just my arm. My face, stomach, head. Everything was throbbing. Even though I had spent the last 2 days practically bedridden,my body still wasn't fully recovered from my Halloween encounter with Moroi Tataeru. With no sense of what time it was as I had remained asleep for majority of the day I forced myself upright and began to scan the room. I couldn't see much as the only source of light came from the closed door's silhouette.
Where's my pain medication? I awkwardly outstretched my arm to my night stand, knocking said medication off as I did so. Found it. I internally congratulated myself on such a wonderful display of dexterity. Cautiously stepping out of bed, I gently cradled my broken arm before finding the switch light. Light and color erupted in the room and I flinched at the sudden change.
Soon as my eyes adjusted, I noticed the bottle sitting on its side snugged tightly between my bed and the stand. "Ah. There it is." I grabbed the medication and opened the door to be greeted by an empty room. "School huh?" It was nice to have the giant dorm room to myself for a few days however the lack of physical activities to do began to irritate me. Even though I had left Skill-Out months ago, Hattori and Komaba's brutal daily routine was ingrained into my nerves. Sometimes, when I'm slacking off, I can feel their piercing stares drilling holes in the back of my head. I shook off the repulsing feeling with vigor and focused my thoughts elsewhere."Well, if I'm going to do something today, might as well start with a healthy breakfast!" Well, breakfast according to me as the kitchen clock informed me it was a little past noon.
While I began the difficult task of one handed cooking, my thoughts wandered off about my encounter with the number 5 level 5, Shokuhou Misaki. I knew she was young but I didn't expect her to be so small. Well her personality is certainly level 5 size, laughing so brazenly at a stranger. Though she can't be all bad as she did agree to meet up again. I even gave her Sogiita's number if she wanted to contact me beforehand. I hope she doesn't to be honest, I fear that I won't like the results of two level 5s collaborating.
I finished cooking and slowly placed my plate on the living room table, careful as to not disturb Ayumi's organized 'mess'. While the mess was a bit more condensed than when I first moved in, it still manage to cover a majority of the table and half of the couch. Vanilla folders, white binders, loose papers everywhere! How exactly is this mess organized? And how does she even make sense of half of these files? From what I could tell, most, if not all of the papers had chunks and bits of it blacked out. Probably secrets that they didn't want outside of the Kihara family. To someone who knows it's all relevant and important observation data and theories based on Sogiita Gunha. To me however, it was a bunch of words randomly arranged! Seriously! What does 'Black (Redacted) Sogiita Gunha (Redacted) achieve (Redacted) Error (Redacted)'? How can anyone make sense of that?
I released a sigh and ate my breakfast while watching the news. Again, my muscles twitched in agony, the urge to do something became harder and harder to suppress.
"Just a stress test shouldn't be too bad." I convinced myself.
First was my left arm. Opening and closing my hand, twisting my wrist came with no issues. Now onto the hard part, lifting and stretching. Raising my arm up to my chest came with little pain but as soon as I began to stretch, it screamed in defiance. " Ow! Ow! Ow! Okay. Can confirm. Arm is still broken." If I'm going anywhere today, I got to wear my sling. As for my ribs I had regained most of my movement through any extreme angles was a no go. With my body in its current condition, exercising was not happening. But a tour around the city would be perfectly fine!
Though it was still technically school hours, I know (due to personal experience) no one is going to question the always scowling, black hair delinquent why he isn't in school. Probably should go shopping too. Need some stuff to wash this dye out of my hair. I placed a note on the fridge before I headed out as I didn't know if I'll be back before Gunha and Ayumi. Along with the fact I still don't have a phone, I had no way of contacting anyone. I took one final look at the full body mirror in the bathroom before heading out. Since I'm no fashion aficionado, I considered my tan slacks and white collared shirt as passable, though the black arm sling wasn't apart of the ensemble. Can't really call myself threatening now huh? I chuckled to myself at the slight chance that someone might not think I'm some scary thug.
From Nagatenjouki dorms, the walk to the closest general store would be a short one. Hopefully I wouldn't be met with too much trouble. The general store I frequented often was noticeably empty today. I could only assume it was due to the time, with most customers being in school right now.
"Yo Kazeyare-kun!" the gray haired employee greeted me in a casual manner. Not that it bothered me but the cashier always spoke casually to all the usual customers. He was quite fond of sparking conversations with anyone in his presence.
"Hello Miyabi-san." Despite his approachable demeanor, he was still an adult and I didn't feel comfortable talking to him on equal terms.
"If you're looking for your friend, they're in the back corner. Thought it was weird to see her alone, but makes sense if you're here now."
Her? I internally questioned. Who's he talking about? Curious about his statement I detoured to the juice aisle where I saw the aforementioned girl. "Ayumi?" Surprised by the unexpected meeting I immediately stepped back. However she didn't seem to notice my presence, her eyes glued to the two juice cans in her hands.
"Orange limeade huh? Academy City sure loves their mixtures. But where's the non carbonated variant? The bubbly texture doesn't mesh well with the flavor. It's more compatible with Pineapple Grapefruit which I can't find carbonated! Miyabi keeps saying they're out of stock but I bet that old bastard's too lazy to check inventory! Does he expect me to mix the two?" her facial expressions switched from conflicted, to annoyance, to calm all in a short span of time! "That might not be a bad idea."
It seemed like she was still agonizing over what to do so I decided to initiate conversation. "Yo, Ayumi."
"Kouta? This is a good opportunity for some feedback." Feedback? For what? "Do you think the non carbonated orange limeade would mesh well with the non-carbonated pineapple grapefruit?" What kind of question is that? And how can you ask that with such a serious expression?
"Sorry. I don't do carbonated drinks. Too much sugar in them."
For the first time since I met Ayumi, she looked surprised? "Are you human?"
"Oi."
"I thought it was strange with the recent increase of water and tea in the kitchen. Do you not drink juice either?" it irritated me to no end that it was a genuine inquiry from her.
"On occasion. I mostly stick to water, green tea, and lowfat milk for breakfast. It's quite hea- Oi! What's with that disgusted face? Is it so hard to believe that I eat healthy?" her normally beautiful face was distorted to a distinguishable revolted glare.
"Ah. I apologize. It was wrong of me to assume you had good taste. It appears that the only good merits of you lie from your neck down."
I was insulted. That much was clear. But her second statement suggested a compliment. Not entirely sure how I feel about that.
"Nevermind my taste, what are you doing here? Shouldn't you be learning it up at your prestigious school?"
"You're assuming I'm cutting class, right? I'll inform you of some good information. Nagatenjouki has a self-paced curriculum. You can even graduate early and start the next semester if you wanted. Or you can complete the test and wait for the classes to keep up with you. With that being said, we have some freedom to do as we please if we excel."
Guess that confirms that Ayumi really is a protege, "I got it. I got it. That's what I get for assuming."
"No. Your first assumption was correct." she remarked as a sly grin formed on her face.
"Ah?"
"You asked a question which I deflected with relevant knowledge and you then assumed something else and I avoided answering your first question entirely."
Rather than angry, I felt quite flustered that I fell for such a trap. "Do you always mess with people like this?"
"Of course not. You and Gunha are the exceptions. Usually I greet people with this." In an instant the aura around her changed and a bright innocent girl appeared before me. Her smile melted any negative thoughts I had toward her. "Kazeyare-kun?" My name gently rolled of her tongue, soothing my senses completely. She grabbed my hand and laced her small fingers between mine. I could feel my face burning up as she slowly closed the distance between us. "Sorry for treating you like that Kazeyare-kun. I only do it because I-" She paused at the most critical moment.
You what? Don't pause at the most important part! Though my thoughts were scattered, these words were clearly screamed inside my head. "Because I-" her lips pursed as she squeezed out the words, "I think you're too easy, Kouta." She let go and returned to the naturally cruel Kihara Ayumi. "You know how I act normally yet you still fell for such an obvious trap. What were you expecting? Some heart-pounding confession in the back of a convenience store?"
Feeling truly defeated by this cute yet incredibly cruel girl, I had no way of defending my actions yet I still clamored for an excuse. "Shut up! Any healthy boy in adolescence would fall for that even knowing your true face!"
We continued arguing about the subject of abusing appearances to appeal to the opposite gender even outside the store on the way back to the dorms. "Regardless of the matter if it's easier for a male or female to appeal the opposite gender, that fact is that you're too easy to read, Kazeyare Kouta." She calmly stated. "All of your emotions and thoughts are on full display on your face. It's a wonder how you can even make any use out of your ability."
"You're not the first person to point that out! In fact, I think it's a good thing! I would even consider it a redeeming quality! Even though people usually avoid me at first glance, those few who take a second look realize I'm not threatening at all! Nice try taking a stab at me but that's one of the few things I'm confident in."
Though I couldn't see her face as I was keeping pace behind her, I did notice she let out a small sigh, "I never said it was a bad thing." Her mouth squeezed out some inaudible words before we stopped at an intersection. "Doesn't matter, I'm heading this way. See ya."
She uncharacteristically dropped the conversation before claiming victory and carried off parallel of the street. That's unusual. She wouldn't stop until she won the topic of discussion and with her, every conversation was an argument, even if she was just playing devil's advocate. "Where are you going? Dorm's straight ahead." It was off-putting that she let it end with no clear victor.
"A date." She casually called back.
Whether it was meant as a romantic 'date' or a meetup 'date' did not matter to me at this point. My interest peaked and I swiftly caught up to her while still maintaining a brisk walking motion. "A date? With who? When did this happen? Where did it happen?" At this point I began grilling her like a girl's best friend or a jealous Ex-boyfriend but that did not matter to me. These questions needed to be asked and they needed answers!
"Oh?" I could practically hear her smug grin in her voice. "Are you the jealous type, Kouta?"
"No. Not like that." I immediately deadpanned. "More like, what kind of person willingly decide to date the devil incarnate? Or is it possibly unwillingly?" Like most people in my situation would, I could not help but tease the normally sadistic and secretive girl knowing she was going on a 'date'.
That was quickly cut short by the leaking aura of malice from Ayumi, "Kazeyare Kouta-kyun." Those words were all that I needed to hear to fall back from my short-lived teasing session.
"I deeply apologize for any misconduct or rudely behavior I may have presented, Kihara Ayumi-sama!" My go-to phrase since living in Nagatenjouki Dorms was uttered to quell her anger.
She released a small sigh signalling the disperse of her anger, "Whatever. It's not a romantic date if that's what you're thinking. I'm meeting with an 'acquaintance' of mine to discuss an important subject." It didn't take me long to pick up on the subtle hints of the subject in question. Sogiita Gunha, Gemstones, and the Gemstone List. It seems she was still actively pursuing answers her own way.
"That reminds me, if you knew Shokuhou had information you wanted,why didn't you go to her yourself? I recall in the hospital you said something about it but you never clarified."
"It's not a personal issue per se, but Shokuhou will be cautious of any Kihara approaching her, especially ones connected to that. And while by proxy you are still connected to the Kihara Family through Sogiita Gunha, you're still in shallow water. Not to mention, approaching her without precautions or forethought is dangerous. I honestly didn't think she would even grant you an audience or even agree to a meeting." While I couldn't disagree with her last statement, I didn't understand what led to the tension between the Kihara Family and Shokuhou. Nor did I understand what connection I had to whatever that was.
"Precautions? Shokuhou didn't seem that threatening to me, at least. While she definitely has a defining personality, nothing she said or did flagged me as dangerous when compared to Gunha." Ayumi stopped dead in her tracks, forcing me to awkwardly dodge out of the way while my momentum carried me forward. Her face remained stoic, her eyes coldly staring beyond me. "Um, Ayumi? You alright?"
She removed her glasses and pinched the bridge of her nose in annoyance. "Tell me Kazeyare Kouta. What is Shokuhou Misaki's power?"
"I don't know." I admitted.
"Tell me, Kazeyare Kouta-kun. What does Shokuhou Misaki look like?"
"Uh, She's a small little girl with a light complexion. I don't know if it's her normal hairstyle but she also has her black hair in pigtails."
Her brows furrowed before placing her glasses back on. "I knew it. While it doesn't really matter to me if you succeed or not, seeing you fail so miserably is now beyond a laughing matter. At this point I can't really fault Shoukuhou for messing with you." She resumed her pace, walking onward without expanding on what she said. "You'll soon find out how dangerous Shokuhou Misaki is, and why she warrants the the number 5 Level 5 name."
While I wanted to ask her more, It seemed she was done talking about that subject, so I shifted the conversation to something new. "So, who's this acquaintance of yours?"
"Nagatami Kyoya. A Kikaiki Academy student. I 'assisted' him a while back and now he's going to return the favor." We finally stopped in front of a large building with an old stylized appearance. The 4 large white pillars loomed over the out-of-place modernized entrance.
"The library? Wait, shouldn't this Nagatami guy be in school too?"
"If your middle school records are correct, I recall your middle school attendance was below average and you want to criticize everyone for skipping school? Mr. former Skill-Out?"
Just how much information does she have on me? I wondered to myself. "Sorry."
"Doesn't matter. I'll see you at home. I'll be late again so go ahead and eat dinner without me."
"Huh? W-wait a second!" I raised my voice to grab her attention.
"What is it now?"
"Well, you know… Since I'm already here and all. Thought it might be a good idea to introduce me to this Nagatami guy. Since we're all working toward the same goal."
"And what goal would that be?" a low voice spoke out and I turned to see a lone teen wearing the Kikaiki Academy uniform which consisted of a blue necktie around his white collared shirt and grey slacks. Everything about him displayed as proper and in place. From his neatly combed back black hair down to his shined leather shoes. Rather than a student, his aura gave more of a businessman impression. The only outstanding characteristics of him was his unusual height and noticeably thick round glasses.
"Oh? You must be Nagatami. Nice to meet you!" I outstretched my right arm for a handshake.
He quietly stared at my hand as if I had done some strange gesture before repeating himself, "Again, What mutual goal are we pursuing?" Right then and there, I realized what kind of person Nagatami Kyoya was. A no nonsense and straight to the point. Blunt and professional. And a guy I definitely didn't see myself getting along with. "What part do you plan on cont-"
"Nagatami." Ayumi's words cut between us and my hairs stood on edge. Like the time inside the hospital, she emitted a dangerous aura that choked my words and thoughts. The air shimmered and an unnatural heat began to surround us. "Let's go. That guy is not a part of this." This time her wrath wasn't directed at me but Nagatami.
Whether it was something he said or maybe did I didn't know however he didn't flinch at the crushing aura directed at him. Instead, he bravely walked forward to the building past Ayumi. "I apologize if I said something to arouse your anger, however I am not to blame for your own associates ignorance."
Ayumi coldly responded to his defense. "If something were to happen, it would be due to your assumptions."
A slight smile appeared on Nagatami's face before he resumed his stoic expression. "In that regard, you would be correct. Also I'd like to extend an apology from Makasu. He won't be attending today considering no one expected you to call us so early." He continued to the building without so much as giving me a second glance. I'm starting to think that following Ayumi here wasn't such a good idea. The air thinned a bit once Nagatami disappeared into the library yet a scowl remained on Ayumi's face.
"I'm guessing this has to something to do with our talk in the hospital?" I calmly assumed though remained wary of her current unpleasant mood.
She silently gazed past me, perhaps sorting her thoughts about her 'associate'. "Perhaps indulging your curiosity wasn't such a good idea." Thought so. Whatever they were discussing or planning on doing, me being here definitely hindered that. "Kazeyare Kouta. Your only merits of usefulness lie in your close friendship with Sogiita Gunha and your ignorance. Please keep that in mind as you proceed." she left me with those words to think about as she entered the building. While it was certainly an encounter, I didn't glean much from it. Perhaps that was a good thing,according to Ayumi anyway. This whole situation surrounding Gunha might be more than just patenting his powers. Once again I reached a dead end of conclusions and left with more questions that all lead up to one particular one.
Should I trust Kihara Ayumi? That question sat in the back of my head the entire time I walked back to the dorm.
~BREAK~
I didn't head straight back to the dorm, as I didn't just want to sit and think about the transpired events so I aimlessly strolled around the city, occasionally bumping into a curious Judgment member or two, wondering if I was skipping school. Each time I had to explain to them with a broken arm and hair cleaning supplies in tow that I'm not such a bad guy. After the fifth time I decided to head back, fully depressed that no one actually believes me until I open my mouth.
"'Maybe if you smiled more you wouldn't look so intimidating.' Or 'Have you tried changing your style? Do something with your clothes to draw attention away from your face.'" I openly mocked Judgement as I entered my dorm. "In the first place, if you're saying something like that then you're openly admitting there's something wrong with my face! Don't blame my face for your own misjudgments based on my appearance! And don't look at me with pity once you realize I've had to deal with this my whole life! It only makes it hurt worse!"
"Welcome back Kouta!" Gunha happily greeted me during my tantrum. I acknowledged his greeting with a growl and heading straight for the kitchen. I had been out for a while and decided to double up on my pain medication. "Where did you go? Shouldn't you be resting for another day or two?"
"What about you Gunha?" I retorted. "I doubt you could even stay in bed for one day!"
Gunha laughed it off. "Haha! That's true! My guts wouldn't allow me to sit still and do nothing!" He pulled out his phone and placed it on the kitchen counter. "By the way, some girl called me earlier and asked for you. I told her you were home sleeping so she asked me more questions about you." I almost gagged on the water I was drinking as he said this. I honestly didn't expect Shokuhou to contact me earlier than our prescribed date, or at all for that matter.
"W-what?" I gasped for air while attempting to interrogate Gunha. "What d-did she ask about?"
"Um… What was it she asked?" His mind rattled to recall the events. "What kind of person you are and your relationship with me. Asked about your powers. Why he would come to another level 5. That's about it… I think?" That last statement doesn't instill me with confidence in your memory Gunha.
"And what did you tell her?"
"The truth!" He boastfully proclaimed. "Kazeyare Kouta is a good guy! He's my best friend! I don't know anything about his ability but it's also full of guts! I don't know why he came to you!" You basically told her nothing about me!
I grabbed his phone and redialed the number. I don't know why she tried to contact me, but if she's showing interest I can't let that slip!
The phone rang for a few seconds before a cutesy voice picked up. "Hello~ Gunha-chan!" however the voice was significantly different from the Shokuhou Misaki I met at the Tokiwadai dorms. There was another thing that struck me as odd.
Chan? Who even refers to Gunha with chan? "Hello?" I cautiously responded.
"Ara? This voice… Is this perhaps…" She pondered for a bit. "Broken arm-san?"
Irritated by her naming sense, I quickly but calmly corrected her. "Kazeyare Kouta. Please don't give me such a demeaning nickname purely based on one descriptive feature of me." Well she seems to remember our meeting but I her voice is completely different from before.
"I know. Your tolerance ability is quite low despite the fact you live with Gunha-chan. At this rate you'll have a head full of grey hair by the time you're 20." I had no retort to that. My short temper and tolerance of things is something I've always needed to work on. "But you already know this. What you don't know is why I called earlier. To be honest, I'm thinking about cancelling our little meet up."
"W-what? Why?" I almost screamed out. It had only been a few days since we met. Did something happen within that time to change her mind?
"I only agreed in the first place because it seemed interesting but I forgot I have to help prepare for the Ichihanaransai around that time." She calmly explained.
"Then let's reschedule the meeting! Don't call it off completely for a double booking! What about after the festival?"
"Also~" She continued. "I don't have any incentive ability to help or even see you for that matter. Even if your intentions are good, I still have no obligation to help you." So that's what this is about huh. True I had no cards to motivate Shokuhou. As a Level 2, my connections and access to anything were average at best. Rather, compared to someone like her, a level 5 Tokiwadai student, what exactly could I offer that she didn't have access to? Of course, nothing came to mind. "Not to mention, you have connections to that horrible Kihara Family. You're living with one according to my sources." She found out about that too. "I'm not sure if they guided you to me or you came of your own accord but I refuse to affiliate myself with anyone connected to them. I apologize for wasting your time."
"No. If anyone was to apologize here, it would be me." I recalled back to my thoughts when I first saw the young girl. "I only thought of gaining your trust quickly so I could get what I wanted from you. I never once thought about your own opinion or thoughts for my situation that I was so readily to drag you into. Sure, I did think it might get dangerous for you but I reasoned that because you're a level 5, you'd be fine. I was wrong to think that." I glanced over to Gunha who was absorbed in whatever T.V. show he was watching. "A while back I fought with the idea that level doesn't matter. And regardless of your level, you are a middle school girl." Even though I told Ayumi to prioritize being herself, there I was classifying that haughty kid as a means to an end. What a hypocrite I am. I saw a quick way out and took it without hesitation. "While I don't know your history with the Kihara Family, let me at least clarify my position with them. As a whole, I do not trust them. They have motives and secrets I don't know or understand but they seem fine with the idea of using people to harm others. That's something I can't agree with. And although someone with the Kihara name did direct me to you, I believe she had no ill intentions with it. Just thought I'd share those words with you. You're free to believe them or not and I'd understand if you didn't. I'm sorry for wasting your time."
Before I could hang up, her voice broke through the other line."Wait." I bought the phone back up to my ear. "Just two questions for you." Questions? What does she intend to gain by asking me questions know. "That Kihara that you mentioned. The one who directed you to me… Do you trust her?"
That was a tough question. One I wasn't entirely sure I could answer. Its because of her I know what I know, but it's the same for the opposite. I know things however I wouldn't call it enough. Withholding information and yet guiding me to some unknown goal. I didn't understand her or her motives. The more I think about it the less I understand Kihara Ayumi. There's only one thing I know for sure when concerning Kihara Ayumi. "I trust Sogiita Gunha's trust in her."
"That's a roundabout way of answering but I'll accept it. Next question. Do you know what my ability is?"
"Your ability?" I repeated. "Ayumi also mentioned something about it too but I have no idea." I stated flatly. "Rather than your ability itself, I came to you for information or connections you might have. Since you are a level 5, I'm guessing it's something destructive? Like molecular breakdown or maybe gravity generator?"
"Do you lack any sort of imagination ability? My power isn't some destructive force like that. It's something much more proper for a lady such as myself." What kind of level 5 ability would you consider proper? "Either way, you'll find out tomorrow."
"Eh? But you just…"
"Hm? I've changed my mind on the matter, that's all." Don't change your mind so frivolously! "By the way I should mention that this call is most likely being monitored by the Kihara Family so hopefully you didn't say anything that grate against them. Later~" She hung up after saying those ominous words.
"Huh/ W-wait really?" Did I say anything that would garner their attention? Maybe she's lying but knowing that Ayumi somehow discovered my dark past only cemented the idea that her words might very well be true. I sighed to myself as I sat next to Gunha and practically headbutted the table, making a resounding noise as I did so. "What's with her? Changing her mind so suddenly? Then you got Ayumi meeting with Mr. Sociable. They don't seem to be on the best of terms either. If its not one thing its another, right Gunha?" I confided with Gunha hoping he would assure me things would be alright.
"Huh? Ah, right." he replied flatly. Well that was a very dull response Gunha. Even if you weren't paying attention, at least pretend to care a bit when your friend is in emotional trouble. I let out a heavy sigh at Gunha's rather lackluster response.
"Kouta?" Gunha called my name quite timidly.
"What is it?" My head remained motionless, still staring at the wooden table hoping it would console me.
"I didn't get the chance to say it before, but…" He paused as if to gather his courage. What is it Gunha? Spit it out! If you act so timidly and out of character like this, Someone's going to get the wrong idea! Just what is it that you're trying to say! "Thank you." He finally spat out.
"For what?"
"A lot of things I guess…" He paused to sort his thoughts. "For helping me. When you told me on the bus that you and Ayumi were doing something dangerous, I immediately wanted to help. I wanted to tell you to stop and leave it to me. I only held my tongue because I knew your guts wouldn't back down. But even now, even after you asked me to leave it to you and Ayumi, I'm wondering if I made the wrong choice."
From a certain standpoint, I understood what Gunha meant when he said those words. The fact that he waited until now to say something proves how conflicted he is about the decision. Leaving some dangerous mess to your friends while you wait on the sidelines, twiddling your fingers in anticipation. Gunha was probably feeling powerless, an emotion I understand all too well.
And yet, when he spoke those words, an irate sensation began crawling on my skin…
My response boiled down to one simple question that I asked myself…
"Gunha. Don't you think what you're saying is a bit unfair?"
"Unfair?"
"If you were in our positions, you wouldn't even mention anything and carry the burden yourself. Regardless if you could handle it or not. You'd run off into danger, destroy whatever menace you came across and return as if nothing happened. Here we are trying to do the same for you and you want to stop us?"
"It's not the same!" his voice rose to almost a yell, a hint of anger within his tone. "You said it yourself! This problem stems from me so why do I have to leave it to you guys?"
That's not the point I'm trying to make! "And how many times have you solved my issues? Or Ayumi's? Or some random stranger? And it's not like we're leaving you completely out of the loop! Didn't I say in the end we still need you to resolve the issue!" I lifted my head off the table and angrily glared at Gunha.
"Isn't that the same thing I'm saying?"
"Fuck no!" I declared. "You may have coated it with some sweet words but the meaning was clear as day! 'Thank you for offering your help but I don't need it. I can handle it by myself!' You're thinking if you get involved earlier it'll be settled quicker and putting me and Ayumi out of danger! Am I right Gunha!?" At this point, me and Gunha were standing face to face, both with anger in our eyes.
"So what if I am? Is it so wrong that I don't want my friends to be in danger?"
I violently grabbed the collar of his shirt and pulled him closer. "That's not the fucking point! You don't have any obligation to fix every problem around you! Just because you're strong doesn't mean you always have to be the hero!" I realized my mistake when I spoke that word. I released my grip from Gunha's shirt who had a dejected look on his face. Though still quite angry, I knew using that word against him only opened up scars. For the both of us. I took a long deep breath to calm my nerves before speaking again. "Look, I'm not asking you to trust us, I already know you do. What I'm saying is that you don't have to do everything by yourself. It's okay to selfishly ask for help. Could you do that for once?" While I awaited for a reply, I internally cursed at myself for using that word against Gunha. Even when enraged, I tended to veer away from using it knowing how Gunha reacts along with his history with it…
"Okay." Those words finally broke the silence between us. "I don't promise I'll always do it, but I'll make an honest effort." Not a yes. But certainly not a no. Odd coming from the guy who usually shouts out blunt answers with no thought put into them. Wasn't the answer I was hoping for but definitely better than the one I was expecting. I silently nodded in agreement. Afterwards we sat in silence watching T.V. for a few minutes. Neither of us able to break the awkward tension between us. I scanned the room looking for something, anything to break the tense atmosphere we so haphazardly built up! Gunha's most likely hoping for Ayumi to barge in and break through but that's pointless Gunha! She's off on a secret meeting! It's down to us to get past this! Otherwise, this won't go away and we'll be stuck in some everlasting awkward loop, unable to be around each other without some strange tension between us! However! A silver lining appeared in the form of the trash! Due to my morning laziness, I had strategically stacked the trash to only appear half-full, but in reality it was near overflowing! Thank you very much, Lazy me! With a self-congratulatory fist pump, I rose to take out the trash.
"Huh?" Gunha glance switched over to me. "Taking out the trash? It didn't look that full to me."
"Yeah well I figured I should take it out now before it begins to smell." I reasoned. Without waiting for his acknowledgment, I slipped my shoes on and escaped the thick atmosphere with trash in hand. Escape successful! I wearily walked down the stairs, passing by students who just returned from school. Most schools ended hours ago. I assumed most stayed behind to assist with the Ichihanaransai, which reminded me that I had no idea what our class was doing for that.
As I neared the entrance I noticed two figures standing openly in the way of traffic forcing others to move around them. "What's going on here?" Of the two people, one was wearing the female uniform of Nagatenjouki while the other person didn't appear to be wearing a recognizable uniform but was clearly a male. From where I stood he appeared to be wearing a white long sleeve shirt and some brown slacks. As I approached, their voices became clearer along with the situation.
"C'mon! What's the harm in one dinner date?" the blonde boy smoothly spat out as the girl firmly stood her ground.
"While I do find your persistent invitations quite appealing, I again must refuse. As I said before I'm quite busy with my research." the familiar sound of a sweet voice with an abrasive undertone halted my approach. A-Ayumi! She's being hit on!? In front of the dorms no less! Don't do it blondie! Despite her voice and timid appearance, she's as brutal as an oni!
My internal warnings to the boy went unnoticed as he continued his pursuit. "Ah, you mean with that level 5? Or with that Orihime project?" Orihime? Who's that?
"Makasu-kun, I'd rather not discuss such private subjects in the open." Her voice a bit sharper this time.
Makasu slowly pressed forward, "Why? UNDER_LINE has been severely damaged. And aren't you tired of putting on such a facade? I much rather prefer the cold and calculating Kihara Ayumi who hates her family." He removed his hand from his pocket and reached for Ayumi's face. Instinctively I began to move forward to stop but his hand stopped midway. It appeared Ayumi said something to dissuade his action, but he replied as if to invoke a retaliation. "Oh? Is that so?" A sly smile formed on his face. "I'd like to see you try." His hand loomed closer to her face.
"Ayumi!" I yelled out to her before I even had time to think. The boy reflexively pulled back his hand as their attention gathered on me. I didn't know what relationship Ayumi had with the boy but it rubbed me the wrong way. "Ayumi. You're back from your appointment earlier than expected." I attempted to form a sort of excuse as to why I called out to her. "Did something happen?"
"Ayumi?" The boy muttered with a trace of irritation.
Ayumi glanced at me with a slight surprise before she snuck a peak at Makasu's face. That's when the worst happened. A devilish smile crept on her face as she mouthed the words 'thank you' and the most unpleasant feeling crawled underneath my skin. "Kouuta-kyun!" she girlishly skipped across the dorm lobby and latched tightly onto my right arm.
NOOOOOOOOOOO! Don't drag me into whatever love drama this is! I wanted to struggle with all my might but there was a pleasant feeling pressing against me that eliminated any resistance I may have had. "Sorry, Makasu-kun, the real reason I can't go out with you is because I already have a date with my cute Kouta-kyun!" Who're you!? And what have you done with the real Kihara Ayumi!? And who the hell is your Kouta-kyun? My brain began to burn up as I tried to process the embarrassing events unfolding. In fact, I was unnaturally warm. And there was only Ayumi to blame for my increased temperature. Oi! Ayumi! Calm down! There's only so much of a girl's warmth a man can take! I had no understanding as to why her powers were acting up but being on the hot end I wanted it to stop!
"A date? With him?" he asked with a bit of concern toward Ayumi. "Is this true?" His question was directed at me.
"Ah?" unprepared for any kind of conversation, I let out an strange yelp of pain. "Y-yes." I barely managed to squeeze out.
Whether he believed me or not I didn't care but he seemed to resign himself. "So that's how it is huh, Kihara Ayumi." He chuckled a bit before leaving, "Either way, I'll still be seeing you at our coup d'etat. That's one date you can't cancel."
Within moments after he left, Ayumi released me from her deathly hot grip. "Hot hot hot! Why were you trying to burn me the whole time Ayumi?" While I had no visible marks on my arm, the pain still resounded in two clear spots.
"I'm sorry." A genuine sounding apology was said. That was something I wasn't expecting at all. "I just didn't know what to do in that situation." Wait… Was she actually nervous about that situation? About that guy? Wouldn't you normally brush off any who approached you with precise soul crushing words? I didn't expect her to be so shaken up about this. "I don't know what I would've done if you weren't there. His throat? Or maybe his eyes first?" A different sense of dread and worry came over me as those words escaped her lips. "I don't know what part about him annoys me the most. Catching me outside, forcing me to play innocent. Damn that Makasu! Next time I see him I'll burn off all that silky blonde hair he so pridefully flaunts!" She was restraining her anger!? It wasn't fear that drove her power up but her anger?
"Oi! Ayumi!" I called to snap her out of her trance.
She angrily glared at me before realizing where she was, then quickly adjusted her outer appearance. "Sorry Kouta-kun. I didn't mean to drag you into that mess."
"It's fine. For now let's head back to the room." She nodded in agreement and waited in the lobby for me as I went to dispose of the trash.
"Still though, I'd never expect you to be so riled up just from a guy flirting."
"While his courtship techniques are far from the worst I've had to suffer, it's more of his arrogant personality that irks me more than anything. Still, he's a valuable asset toward achieving my goal." that's a strange way of putting it. "Which reminds me, Gunha called and informed me of Shokuhou's attempt to contact you. Did you ever reply back?"
"Yes. That frivolous girl changed her mind then changed it back! It was a pointless call. I didn't learn anything from her! I can't understand level 5s. Or maybe it's her high class upbringing that her that way."
"I don't think you understood the point of that call." she quietly muttered. I looked at her quizzically before she spoke again. "December huh… That should be enough, right?"
She muttered those words I clearly wasn't meant to here. I had no idea how much they meant to 'Kihara Ayumi.' While I cowardly skimmed across the darkness, Kihara Ayumi was bathed in it and yet claimed no allegiance to that evil. I didn't know that October 31 held much more meaning, much more conflict, violence and death than I could ever imagine. While Ayumi claimed my ignorance was an important factor, looking back on these prior events, I wonder how much I actually would've changed? Who would be standing here? There was an internal conflict Kihara Ayumi was fighting alone and even now, knowing all that I ignored, didn't dare claim comprehension of what she endured and the ever encroaching darkness she kept at bay for us.
I had no idea that December was the end of ignorance, and along with it, my illusion of peace.
We have some new characters now! Though in regards to this story, they are highly irrelevant. And what's this? Sogiita Gunha has some character other than Guts? BLASPHEMY! All jokes aside this was a fun chapter to write though I'm not sure how well I wrote Misaki. I always think of her as mischievous glutton. Either way she's integral to the plot so I'll either get better at writing her or her character will suffer due to my own inexperience. Guess we will find out together! There's one more conflict that needs to be resolved before closing out on the story. Can you guess what it is?
As Always I ask that you leave any thoughts, complaints, gripes, criticisms, positive or negative in that review box!
This is Sargent Crash
Crashing Out!