The deafening BANG echoed through the vastness of outer space as the two ships engaged in a fierce battle. Amidst the chaos, a desperate cry filled the air, "We've been hit!"
Soldiers swiftly moved with urgency, darting towards their designated stations. In the midst of the commotion, a soldier clutched a mysterious metal sphere tightly in his hands, aware of its importance. "We must get 'it' out of here!" he exclaimed, his voice resolute.
Amongst the frantic exchange of laser fire, Soldier 1 spoke with determination, "We need to reach the escape pod!"
KABOOM The door burst open, unleashing a torrent of smoke and a relentless barrage of laser beams. Everyone scrambled, seeking cover wherever they could find it.
"No, Soldier. Your mission is to make it to the escape pod," a commanding voice asserted, cutting through the chaos. The soldier stared at the man, saluting him one final time, his eyes filled with unwavering loyalty. "It's been an honor fighting by your side, Commander!"
The commander grinned, pivoting to face the breached door, unleashing a hail of firepower upon any approaching threat.
Seizing the opportunity, the soldier sprinted in the opposite direction, navigating through the smoke-filled corridors towards the escape pods.
"I've located it!" the soldier exclaimed, reaching the escape pod and swiftly depositing the enigmatic sphere inside. With nimble fingers, he punched in the access code.
"Firing sequence initiated. T-minus 30 seconds," the ship's AI announced, its voice resolute.
Just as the soldier was about to catch his breath, a sudden explosion propelled him to dive for cover, narrowly evading the onslaught.
"Damn it, they breached our defenses!" Soldier 1 grunted, his grip tightening on his pistol as he fought back against the encroaching horde of robots.
"T-Minus 15 seconds," the countdown persisted.
"I just need a little more time!" Soldier 1 gritted his teeth, relentlessly firing his weapon until a distinct click resonated within his mind.
"Out," he whispered to himself, a fleeting thought of relief.
"T-Minus 5 seconds."
Seeking respite behind his makeshift shelter, the soldier's strength waned with each passing moment.
"T-Minus 4 seconds."
"So, this is how it ends," he mused, accepting the imminent fate that awaited him.
"T-Minus 3 seconds."
"Well, it's been quite the run," he murmured.
"2."
"1."
As the soldier closed his eyes, the approaching footsteps of the relentless robots grew louder.
"I hope that thing finally fulfills its purpose," he whispered, his final thought fading into the void as the countdown reached its climax.
Hikigaya just wanted to go home, seeking refuge from the constant buzz of gossip surrounding the aftermath of the culture festival. To ensure Sagami would show up and deliver her speech, Hikigaya had resorted to what he calls "social suicide." While Hikigaya's drastic action did make Sagami go on stage, it came with a heavy cost—ruining his reputation. But that was all in the past. Hikigaya no longer cared about others' opinions or the whispers behind his back. He was used to it at this point.
Gathering his things, Hikigaya strolled out of the classroom. It was about that time to head to the club room. At least there he can have some peace and quiet for a short while.
As he traveled the hallway, lost in thought, Hikigaya accidentally collided with someone, abruptly jolting him out of his thoughts.
"Sorry about that," he softly apologized, raising his eyes to meet the gaze of the person he had accidentally bumped into. It was his math teacher, Shoji Saburo. Mr. Shoji stood out to Hikigaya as someone unique. Unlike the other teachers, he maintained a private demeanor, refraining from meddling in others' affairs—a quality Hikigaya admired and respected.
"It's alright, don't worry about it," Shoji responded calmly, imparting a fleeting smile before walking away. The encounter left Hikigaya intrigued, as the mysterious teacher seemed to exist in a realm of his own. Now that Hikigaya thinks about it, he never saw Shoji at all around the time of the culture festival. Maybe he was one of those teachers who didn't care for those kinds of things.
Deciding to leave that all behind Hikigaya walked to the club room. Pushing open the door, he was greeted by the familiar sight of the two individuals seated at the table.
This was the service club, overseen by the club leader, Yukinoshita Yukino. Hikigaya entered, settling comfortably into his seat. He brought out his light novel from his bag, continuing from where he last left off.. On the side, Yukinoshita gracefully poured tea into three cups, the aromatic scent of tea mingled with the air, creating a soothing ambiance. Hikigaya stole a glance at Yukinoshita, watching her push the tea towards his side. HIkigaya stares at it, watching the steam from the cup rise to the air.
"If you don't drink your tea, it'll get cold," Yukinoshita said, blowing her own cup of tea.
"My mouth burns easily." He reached for his cup, gently blowing on the steaming tea to cool it down before taking a sip.
"Are you guys excited about the trip?" a pink haired girl Yuigahama says. By the tone of her voice Hikigaya can tell she's excited
"Not really." HIkigaya doesn't really care about these kinds of trips. To Hikigaya, the trips are based on how a business trip with your boss will go. The girls continue to talk about the Kyoto trip while Hikigaya continues reading his book.
Apparently their conversation was short lived since Yuigahama leaned over Hikigaya's shoulder, taking a peak at what he is reading he assumes.
"What are you reading Hiki?" Yuigahama asked.
Hikigaya sighs "It's a book about a secret organization trying to keep aliens hidden from the world."
"Oh it sounds like that one movie!" Yuigahama thinks, trying to remember what the movie was called.
"The movie you're thinking of is probably Men In Black." Yukinoshita interjected, taking a leisurely sip of her tea.
Hikigaya and Yuigahama turned their attention towards Yukinoshita, taken aback by her knowledge of movies. From their stares, she could discern their surprise.
"What? I watch movies too." she says opening up her book.
The door glides open, revealing Hayama and Tobe standing there. It's an unexpected sight—why would these two want help from the service club?
Yukinoshita addresses the pair of guests with a courteous tone. "Is there something we can assist you with?" she asks.
Hayama lets out a small chuckle in response to Yukinoshita's question. "Tobe here was hoping that the service club could lend him a hand," he explains.
Hayama glances at Tobe, silently signaling him to speak up and express his request.
Tobe hesitates for a moment, then confesses, "I find it difficult to ask for help, especially in front of Hikitani."
"Tobechi! That was rude!" Yuigahama defends Hikigaya.
"I apologize, but I'll have to ask you to leave," Yukinoshita asserts.
Hikigaya expected this outcome. He starts to make his way towards the exit, but before he can leave, he hears Yukinoshita interject.
"Where are you going?" she asks, puzzled.
"I'm stepping outside," Hikigaya replies, confused by her question.
Yukinoshita clarifies, "I was referring to them, not you. I fail to see the purpose of helping rude people."
Tobe, finally being desperate, told them what he needed help on. He wanted their help so he could have an opportunity to confess at the field trip. Now there were many obstacles to come by, remember about Hina's Yaoi interest.
"Man this is gonna be a pain." Hikigaya said out loud. Shortly after Tobe and Hayama, Ebina came in asking for assistance. Well it was actually like asking for help in disguise. Ebina knows what's about to happen but she's already self aware of what would happen when she rejects Tobe. So she asked the service club for help, but particularly Hikigaya since he was the only one who understood what she wanted.
But whatever, that's all behind Hikigaya now. All he wants to do now is flop on his bed and play his Vita for the rest of the night. Hikigaya decides that taking a shortcut through the park would be faster, so he walks through it. The park was empty, no people or animals in sight. Hikigaya walks further until he sees something up ahead.
"Ahh, crap," Hikigaya muttered under his breath, his gaze fixed on a figure seated on a nearby bench. It was Tobe, wearing a look of stress and anxiety. Hikigaya sighed inwardly, not wanting to deal with the situation at hand. He attempted to walk past Tobe quietly, hoping to go unnoticed.
"Hikitani!" Tobe's voice called out, shattering Hikigaya's hopes of escape.
Just great, Hikigaya thought to himself, a tinge of annoyance creeping into his expression. Tobe caught up with him, now walking alongside Hikigaya.
"My name is not Hikitani," Hikigaya corrected, his tone slightly curt. "And don't you have something better to do?"
"Aw, come on, Hikit—I mean, Hikigaya," Tobe replied, his voice tinged with nervousness. "I'm just really worried about tomorrow."
Understandable, Confessing to your crush is one of the hardest things you can do, especially if they're your friend.
"Just go home and get some sleep," Hikigaya advised. "We have the Kyoto trip tomorrow."
"But I can't sleep tonight! What if everything goes wrong?" Tobe rambled anxiously, his words
blending together as they continued walking. Suddenly, Hikigaya halted in his tracks, his gaze shifting upwards. Looking up he sees something flying in the sky. Tobe noticed Hikigaya's pause and followed his line of sight.
"Whoa! A shooting star!" Tobe exclaimed with excitement, clasping his hands together in a praying motion. "Maybe I can make a wish for good luck."
Hikigaya paid little attention to Tobe's words, a sense of unease settling within him. The shooting star seemed mesmerizing, its radiant trail illuminating the night. But something felt off, and Hikigaya couldn't ignore the nagging instinct that warned him of impending danger.
In an instant, the shooting star veered sharply in their direction, hurtling through the sky at astonishing speed. Hikigaya's eyes widened with alarm as he reacted instinctively.
"Run!" Hikigaya shouted, seizing Tobe's wrist and pulling him away with all his might. The object in the sky closed in rapidly, crashing into the ground with a thunderous explosion just behind them. The force of the blast sent the two boys tumbling forward, crashing onto the ground.
Hikigaya shielded his head from falling debris, his heart pounding in his chest. After a few tense moments, he cautiously uncovered his eyes, surveying the destruction that lay before them. The park had been reduced to ruins—charred trees, demolished statues, and shattered sidewalks. But what caught Hikigaya's attention the most was the colossal crater that lay just a few meters away, a testament to the cataclysmic impact of whatever had descended from the sky.
"Agggggggh..." Hikigaya's agonized cry reverberated through the air, his sharp exclamation causing him to turn swiftly to his left. Tobe, slowly recovering from the unexpected incident, met Hikigaya's gaze with a mixture of confusion and concern. Their eyes, filled with trepidation, rose to the sky, searching for an explanation for the turmoil they had just witnessed.
"What the hell was that? Was it a missile?" Tobe's voice trembled with fear, his inquisitive eyes fixated on the heavens above.
"No," Hikigaya responded, swiftly dismissing the notion with a firm conviction. "If it were a missile, our fate would have been sealed at that very moment."
Tobe nodded, acknowledging Hikigaya's rationale, yet the burning curiosity within him compelled him to turn his attention back to the aftermath of the event. A deep determination took hold of Tobe's voice as he declared, "We should investigate," his feet already propelling him toward the gaping maw of the open crater.
"No, no! We should leave this place and alert the authorities!" Hikigaya's urgency rang through his words as he rushed to Tobe's side, gripping his shoulder firmly, a desperate attempt to halt his advance.
But before Hikigaya could complete his cautionary statement, the ground beneath him crumbled, betraying his footing and plunging him into the depths of the crater.
"Ouch," Hikigaya grumbled, his voice laced with discomfort as he gingerly lifted himself from the unfamiliar terrain.
"Hikitani, are you ok!?" Tobe's concerned voice called out from above, providing a lifeline in the midst of darkness.
"I'm fine," Hikigaya reassured, dusting off the dirt that clung to his clothing. Looking at his surroundings HIkigaya sees a metal object in the middle of the crater.
"It looks like a satellite or something…" Hikigaya mused to himself, his questioning tone laced with a hint of bewilderment. The object nestled within the crater possessed a rounded shape, akin to a polished seashell. Its metallic composition further piqued Hikigaya's curiosity.
"I need to get out of here." Hikigaya pivoted, his gaze scanning the surroundings in search of an escape route. Yet, before he could take another step, a piercing beep resonated through the air, abruptly seizing his attention. With a swift turn, Hikigaya's eyes widened as he beheld the metal orb unfurling itself before him.
"What is that?" Hikigaya instinctively recoiled, a tinge of fear coloring his voice. The metallic sphere completed its transformation, emitting a plume of swirling steam from within. Hikigaya waved his hand in a futile attempt to clear his view.
Once the steam clears Hikigaya can fully see what was inside. It looked like a watch but what was a watch doing in outer space? Whatever, Hikigaya wanted to get out of here and get away from all this. He turns around to walk away, but hears a noise descending from above. Hikigaya looked up, it was Tobe.
"I'm coming to Hikitani!" Tobe slid down into the crater.
"Oi, Stop that!" Hikigaya demanded.
It was too late for Hikigaya to warn Tobe about the thing that was inside.
"Watch out! I can't stop!" Tobe's piercing scream reverberated through the air as he hurtled uncontrollably, crashing into Hikigaya with a forceful found himself forcefully pressed against the unyielding surface of the mysterious orb, his hand inadvertently slipping inside its metallic enclosure.
"Can you quit goofing off? This is serious!" Hikigaya's exasperated voice echoed, punctuated by a sense of despair. Why did only bad things happen to him? Hikigaya just wanted to go home and play his game but now he's caught in the middle of this mess.
Beside him, a flickering green light emanated from the enigmatic watch-like device. Hikigaya's heart skipped a beat as he observed the eerie transformation. What was once a somber amalgamation of grays and dark hues now pulsated with an ethereal green glow, seemingly awakening to life. An unshakeable fear coursed through Hikigaya's veins, compelling him to withdraw his arm from the orb's grasp. In a strange and inexplicable act, the watch-like object leaped forth, attaching itself firmly to his left wrist.
"AHH!" Hikigaya panics, he starts shaking his arm around trying to get this thing off. That clearly wasn't working so he tried to pull it off.
He can't…
A realization crept into Hikigaya's consciousness, accompanied by a peculiar sensation. The tightness around his wrist, far from being discomforting, felt strangely natural. It was as if the device had seamlessly melded with his very being, becoming an inseparable extension of his own flesh.
"What the hell is that!' Tobe screamed, afraid from the sudden thing that attached to Hikigaya's wrist.
"I don't know but help me get it off!" HIkigaya yelled. He was panicking now. If this was anything like those alien movies he watched with Komachi, then this device would start to take over his mind, then it'll make him go after everyone and take over their minds! Hikigaya was not about to let his life become an alien movie cliche.
Tobe dashed towards Hikigaya, clutching a portion of the mysterious watch. With all his strength, he tugged at Hikigaya's arm, his efforts causing him to lose balance and stumble, uttering a pained exclamation.
"Ow" Tobe muttered.
Hikigaya's eyes widened as he swiftly seized a nearby rock, wielding it as his makeshift weapon. With a forceful strike, he aimed at the watch's faceplate, hoping to shatter its inexplicable hold. But to his dismay It remained unscathed, defying his every attempt.
"WOOOOOOOO"
In the distance Hikigaya can hear a wailing noise. Like an alarm.
No that wasn't it, it was more like a siren…
Dammit he needs to get out of here now!
"COME ON WE GOTTA RUN!" Hikigaya dashes up the crater climbing out.
"HEY WAIT FOR ME!" Tobe runs after Hikigaya.
Hikigaya's heart raced within his chest as he sprinted with all his might, propelled by an instinctive drive to put as much distance as possible between himself and the chaos behind. He couldn't discern a specific destination; he merely yearned for respite from the unfolding turmoil. After what felt like an eternity, Hikigaya finally halted, his lungs gasping for precious breath. The magnitude of his sprint had pushed his physical limits. Though he occasionally rode his bike to school, the sheer exertion of running had drained him like never before.
A rustling sound reached Hikigaya's ears, signaling the approach of another presence. Reacting instinctively, he seized a nearby stick, gripping it tightly as one would hold a baseball bat, ready to defend himself. The snapping of twigs grew closer, intensifying his apprehension.
"Woah, man! You can't just leave me like that!"
It was Tobe, breathless but unharmed.
Hikigaya released his grip on the makeshift weapon, allowing it to drop to the ground. "Why did you follow me?" he asked, his voice tinged with a mixture of relief and annoyance.
"Well, I didn't know where else to go!" Tobe replied urgently, his words rushing out. "The police were swarming the area, man! It felt safer sticking with you."
As Hikigaya paused to catch his breath, he redirected his attention towards the mysterious watch adorning his wrist. With a newfound opportunity to examine it closely, he brought his wrist closer, examining its features. The distinct elements of the watch came into focus, captivating his gaze.
The centerpiece of the watch was an alluring green hourglass symbol, prominently displayed amidst a backdrop of black and gray tones. A slender white tube emerged from the watch's casing, adding an intriguing touch to its design. Positioned just below the hourglass, Hikigaya noticed a small green button, beckoning to be pressed.
Now Hikigaya doesn't like prying into things he doesn't know about. It was his speciality to not involve himself with anything, but for some reason this watch piqued his curiosity. Unable to resist the temptation, he extended his finger and cautiously pressed the small green button. In that instant, the symbol on the watch sprang to life, projecting a vibrant green hologram above it.
"Woah! What did you just do?" he exclaimed, his eyes fixed on the peculiar timepiece.
Hikigaya, fully engrossed in the hologram, replied nonchalantly, "I just pressed the button." His attention was captivated by the hologram taking shape—a figure that seemed to resemble a person at first glance but, upon closer inspection, revealed itself to be a mysterious creature.
Curiosity getting the better of him, Tobe leaned in closer to catch a better glimpse of the holographic marvel. "Woah! So cool!" he exclaimed, his face just inches away from the watch.
"Back off! You're too close!" Hikigaya warned, hastily stepping backward. However, in his attempt to retreat, he accidentally stepped on something slippery, causing him to lose his balance.
"Woah!" Hikigaya cried out as he crashed to the ground. In that moment of chaos, his inadvertent movement activated the dial on the watch. A brilliant flash of green light enveloped Hikigaya, causing Tobe to instinctively shut his eyes to shield them from the intense radiance.
Within the luminous glow, Hikigaya could sense a transformation taking place. A sensation akin to a hard, rocky texture enveloped his left arm, radiating from the watch. The rocky exterior began climbing up his arm, encasing his entire body in its stony embrace. As the process unfolded, vibrant yellow lines emerged across Hikigaya's body, emitting a radiant glow. The more these lines spread and covered him, the more his body radiated with an intense warmth.
The blinding green light subsided, allowing Tobe to finally regain his vision. With eyes wide open, he struggled to comprehend the astonishing sight before him. The spot where Hikigaya had once stood was now occupied by a peculiar coal-like creature, engulfed in roaring flames.
As the green flash dissipated, Tobe's vision cleared, allowing him to take in the bewildering scene before him. His eyes widened in disbelief as he beheld the sight that had replaced Hikigaya's presence—a peculiar coal monster engulfed in fiery flames.
The monster blinked, its voice filled with confusion. "Why do I feel weird?" it uttered, its words reverberating through the air.
"Um, Hikitani?" Tobe questioned hesitantly, slowly edging backward. "Is that you?"
The monster turned its attention toward Tobe, its fiery gaze fixed upon him. "Of course it's me. Why wouldn't I be—" The monster's voice trailed off as it glanced down at its own arm.
The monster's hands emitted a radiant yellow glow, while its entire body appeared to be constructed from a coal-like substance. Glowing yellow lines extended across its entire form. Hikigaya, or rather the monster that now possessed his essence, brought its hands to its face, scrutinizing its transformed appearance as if trying to confirm it wasn't a mere figment of the imagination.
Hikigaya turned to Tobe, his voice filled with uncertainty. "I'm on fire?"
Tobe nodded, his concern evident. "Do you feel any pain?"
Hikigaya offered no immediate response, grappling with the reality of his altered state. He wasn't certain himself whether he felt any pain or not.
"Hikigaya, the watch!" Tobe urgently pointed out, directing Hikigaya's attention to his chest. "It's on your chest now!"
Hikigaya looked down, focusing on his upper torso. Tobe's observation was correct—the hourglass symbol had shifted from his wrist to his chest.
"Oh, man this is so confusing." Hikigaya said.
Hold on, now that Hikigaya is talking more, his voice sounds different than usual. It now has a raspy adult tone instead of his normal voice.
"Woah man, you're like 2 feet taller now." Curiosity getting the better of him, Tobe approached Hikigaya, retrieving the stick he had seen earlier. He cautiously positioned the stick against Hikigaya's head, allowing it to rest there momentarily.
"Hey, cut that out," Hikigaya urged, waving his hand to remove the stick. However, as he did so, a sudden burst of flames erupted from his palm. The fiery projectile soared through the air, piercing through a nearby tree and leaving a gaping hole in its wake.
Surprised, both teens stare at the hole Hikigaya made.
"Dude, how did you do that?" Tobe steps back.
Hikigaya takes a look at his hands "I don't know-" an electric flash happens in Hikigaya's mind, dumping information in his head. It felt like he was recalling an old memory.
"Okay…" Hikigaya said. With this new information in his head, he squishes his hands together, forming the same fireball he just shot out earlier.
"Woah! How did you know how to do that?" Tobe asks.
Hikigaya wanted to respond but didn't know how to explain it to someone like Tobe.
"It's like someone just dumped a manual in my brain, and now it feels like my brain can read it at twice the speed," Hikigaya replied, trying to make sense of his newfound abilities.
"Dude, that's super cool!" Tobe exclaimed, his excitement evident. Hikigaya couldn't deny that he found it exhilarating as well. He threw the fireball in his hand, causing another tree to explode. Deep down, he knew he was enjoying these newfound powers, reminiscent of his chuunibyou days.
"Hey Hikitani, how are you going to return to normal?" Tobe questioned.
That question struck a nerve within Hikigaya, causing his insides to twist. How could he possibly
go back to being normal? Would he be stuck as a monster forever? What would Komachi think if she saw him like this?
But that was the least of their worries. At the spot where Hikigaya had unleashed the fireball, a small flame began to grow, devouring the branches and trees in its path.
"Oh shit!" Tobe hastily removes his uniform jacket and attempts to extinguish the fire by flapping it, but to their horror, the flames only grow stronger.
"Stop it, you idiot!" Hikigaya rushes towards the fire, snatching the jacket from Tobe's hands.
"You're just supplying it with oxygen!"
Panic courses through Hikigaya as the situation intensifies. They need to find a way to quell the flames before it spirals out of control.
"Um, Hikigaya..."
"What is it now?" Hikigaya's frustration mounts.
"My jacket..."
Hikigaya looks down at the jacket he's clutching. It's on fire…
"AH!" Hikigaya instinctively throws the jacket aside, unintentionally landing it near a pile of dried leaves, which promptly ignites.
"AHHH!" Tobe screams. "WHY WOULD YOU THROW IT!?"
"IT WAS ON FIRE!" Hikigaya argues defensively.
"YOU'RE MADE OF FIRE!"
Oh… he was right. If he had held onto the jacket it would've just burnt to ash.
Why is Tobe the smart one in this situation?
Hikigaya and Tobe stood frozen in place, desperately trying to devise a plan to extinguish the raging fire before them.
"Use your hands to suck out the fire," a voice unexpectedly spoke from behind them.
Startled, Hikigaya and Tobe swiftly turned around to discover the source of the voice.
"Shoji sensei?" they both exclaimed in surprise, recognizing their math teacher standing there.
Approaching Hikigaya, Shoji reiterated, "Are you even listening? I told you to inhale the fire."
"But I have no idea how to..." Hikigaya began, his mind suddenly jolted by a familiar sensation.
This time, however, he comprehended the cryptic message conveyed by Shoji sensei.
Raising his arm, Hikigaya concentrated on the fire, aligning his thoughts precisely with the instructions his mind provided. Moments later, the flames converged towards Hikigaya's outstretched hands, dissolving into nothingness, leaving only the scent of charred remains.
"That was amazing, Hikitani!" Tobe exclaimed, awestruck by the spectacle.
Turning his attention to Shoji, Hikigaya questioned, "How did you know I could do that?"
Curiosity now consumed him, eager to uncover the truth behind his enigmatic teacher.
"You're a pyronite, aren't you?" Shoji inquired, his tone filled with intrigue.
"A Pyro-what?" Hikigaya responded, bewildered by the unfamiliar term.
Suddenly, a loud beeping noise erupted from Hikigaya's chest, its flashing red light capturing their attention.
"Whoa, Hikitani, something's happening!" Tobe exclaimed, the urgency in his voice growing.
The beeping persisted, sounding three more times, until it engulfed Hikigaya in a blinding flash of crimson light. When the radiance dissipated, Hikigaya stood before them, no longer transformed into the fiery monster.
"I... I'm myself again!" Hikigaya marveled, his eyes fixed on his restored appearance.
"Now things have become considerably more complex," Shoji muttered to himself. "You two, follow me. It appears I have quite a bit of explaining to do."
They found a cozy spot in a fried chicken restaurant and waited for their food. The air was filled with the mouthwatering smell of frying grease coming from the busy kitchen. The restaurant was filled with a mix of energetic partygoers and hungry college students enjoying a late-night treat.
Shoji let out a weary sigh, breaking the silence. "Alright, let's get started," he began, his gaze fixed on Hikigaya.
Perplexed, Hikigaya raised his arm and pulled down his sleeve, revealing a peculiar watch. "You should probably start telling me what the hell this is," he demanded.
"Okay, Something easy to start out with. That right there is called the Omnitrix." Shoji explains.
"Omnitrix?" Hikigaya repeated, his brow furrowing in curiosity.
"Now I don't know much about it myself, but all I know is that it's a powerful weapon." Shoji confessed, taking a savory bite of his chicken. "Though I don't have all the details, I do know it's a powerful weapon. And based on what I witnessed earlier, it has the ability to transform you into various alien forms."
"Hold on aliens. They're real!" Tobe exclaimed, unable to contain his astonishment.
"Shhh, not so loud." Hikigaya hushed at Tobe.
Tobe covered his mouth, offering an apologetic whisper. "Sorry."
"Yes, aliens are real. What you turned into was an alien species called pyronites."
Hikigaya couldn't believe what he was hearing. Being able to transform into aliens, just with a single watch? In order to believe that he has to get around the idea that aliens exist first.
Okay, but how do you know all this?" Hikigaya asked.
"Well, let's just say I'm not like other high school teachers," Shoji replied, taking a bite of his chicken. "Let's leave it at that for now."
"But I still have more questions," Hikigaya insisted. He couldn't just let it go; he wanted to know more.
"Listen, Hikigaya, it's a school night. We also have a field trip tomorrow. Find me and I'll tell you more," Shoji suggested.
Although Hikigaya was eager to know right away, he realized Shoji was right. It was already late, and he needed to get home so that his sister Komachi wouldn't be left alone.
And so, they bid each other farewell and headed home. The anticipation for their meeting the next day lingered in their minds.
Where is the Omnitrix?" A voice resonated from within a healing tube. Inside, there was a humanoid creature with squid-like features.
"It seems that the Omnitrix wasn't aboard the ship," a smaller alien responded.
"Then where is it?" The frustration was evident in the person's voice.
"Our ship's security informed us that the pod is heading straight for Earth."
The squid-like figure narrowed its eyes as the word "Earth" was mentioned.
"Send in the mechadroids. They must retrieve the Omnitrix for me!" the person commanded.
"Yes, my lord," the minions replied. One of the minions departed, leaving the squid-like figure alone.
"I will acquire the Omnitrix. Azmuth, you can't keep it away from me forever!"
Hikigaya finally arrived home, only to be bombarded with questions from his sister, Komachi, about why he was late.
Exhausted, he entered his room and dropped his bag as he plopped onto the bed, his mind filled with thoughts from the day's events. He raised his wrist to his face, contemplating the existence of the mysterious device. Who had invented it, and why? Tomorrow, he hoped to find answers.
Closing his eyes briefly, Hikigaya was startled by the sound of birds chirping. Panic set in as he realized it was already morning. Glancing at his wrist, he confirmed that the watch was still there. It wasn't just a dream.
Quickly checking the time on his alarm clock, Hikigaya exclaimed, "Oh, no! I'm late!" He hurriedly jumped out of bed and rushed to the bathroom, trying to complete his morning routine in record time.
After hastily finishing up, he dashed outside, realizing that he had forgotten he needed to wake up early. They were leaving for a trip that day.
Finally reaching the train, Hikigaya took a seat, still catching his breath.
"Hikki! I thought you were going to miss us," Yuigahama exclaimed.
Unable to respond immediately, Hikigaya continued to gasp for air.
The trains start heading to their destination. Slowly Yuigahama works her magic trying to get Ebina and Tobe to talk to each other. But Yuigahama noticed that Tobe looks like he isn't interested in the conversation at all.
"Hey Tobe, can we talk for a bit?" Hayama, Tobe's best friend, approached him.
"Yeah, sure," Tobe replied shortly, following Hayama's lead.
"What's been going on with you today? This is your chance to make some progress with Ebina," Hayama said.
"Yeah, you're right," Tobe stammered. "Sorry about that. I was just thinking about something else." Tobe had momentarily forgotten about Ebina. After the events of yesterday, he was eager to hear what Shoji-sensei had to say.
At the back of the bus, Hikigaya sat by the window, lost in his thoughts. Totsuka was seated right next to him, while Yuigahama flopped down in the seat beside Hikigaya, sighing.
"It doesn't seem to be going well between Ebina and Tobe," Yuigahama remarked.
"What do you mean?" Hikigaya asked, peering out the window, his interest lacking.
"Tobe doesn't seem as enthusiastic as he was yesterday," Yuigahama explained.
Hikigaya knew the reason why. For once, he and Tobe shared the same thought—they both wanted answers and to uncover the origin of the Omnitrix.
"Hey, Hachiman, what kind of watch is that?" Totsuka inquired, pointing at Hikigaya's wrist.
Oh no! Hikigaya had been in such a rush this morning that he forgot to conceal the Omnitrix. Yuigahama glanced over as well.
"Wow, that's really unusual, Hikki," Yuigahama commented.
Hikigaya needed to think quickly, coming up with some kind of excuse.
"Oh, it's a gift from my grandparents," Hikigaya replied.
"That's really sweet of your grandparents!" Totsuka exclaimed, smiling warmly. Hikigaya silently vowed to protect that smile.
Shortly after their arrival in Kyoto, they checked into their hotel and placed their luggage in their rooms. Once settled, they stepped outside to meet up with the other classes and the accompanying teachers. Among them, Hikigaya immediately recognized two familiar faces. One was Hiratsuka Shizuka, his English teacher, and the other was Shoji-sensei, whom Hikigaya never expected to see as a chaperone for the trip.
With the plan now in motion, it was time for Hikigaya to fulfill his original task of bringing Ebina and Tobe together. They explored various attractions, such as visiting the shrine and trying their luck with fortune-telling. They even drank water from the shrine's waterfall. So far, it seemed that Tobe was making progress with Ebina.
"It looks like everything is going well," Yuigahama commented.
"Yeah," Hikigaya replied. "We should probably give them some space."
It was now nighttime. Hikigaya is sitting on a bench in the hotel lobby, drinking his favorite drink, max coffee. But at the corner of Hikigaya's eyes he sees someone looking at the plushies in the gift shop. It was was about to grab a plush before she saw Hikigaya sitting down, staring at her from the corner of her to play it off Yukinoshita tucked her arms and began to walk away.
"Night." Hikigaya said. Yukinoshita pauses, turning around, walking towards where Hikigaya was sitting.
"Well, what a coincidence." Yukinoshita says.
"You should've said that a second ago." Hikigaya said "What's wrong, you got uncomfortable in your room so you ran away?"
Yukinoshita sighs "No, The topic of conversation turned towards me."
"Isn't that good? You should be able to make friends that way." Hikigaya suggested.
Yukinoshita glares at Hikigaya "Like you're one to talk."
Yukinoshita sits down next to Hikigaya.
"So how's the service request going?" she asked.
"Neither good nor bad I guess." Hikigaya responds.
"Sorry I can't help much. With me being in a different class." Yukinoshita apologized.
"Don't worry about it. I'm in their class and I haven't done a thing."
In the middle of their conversation someone walks by them wearing a trench coat and sunglasses. The person looks back at the two revealing it to be their teacher Hiratuska.
Mid-conversation, a person wearing a trench coat and sunglasses walked by them. The person glanced back, revealing themselves to be their teacher, Hiratsuka.
Hiratsuka insisted on dragging Hikigaya and Yukinoshita along with her, treating them to dinner to ensure their silence. Unbeknownst to them, her real motive for sneaking out was to buy some alcohol for herself.
As they walked back towards the hotel, Yukinoshita led the way, a few feet ahead of Hikigaya. Suddenly, she came to a sudden halt, looking around anxiously, hugging her arms tightly.
"It's this way," Hikigaya said, taking the lead. Shortly after, Yukinoshita followed but stayed a few
feet behind.
Hikigaya turned around. "If you stay too far back, you might get lost, you know."
"N-No, it's fine," Yukinoshita replied, avoiding eye contact.
Hikigaya pointed out, "But the hotels are right there."
"Yeah, but it bothers me," Yukinoshita responded.
"What bothers you?" Hikigaya asked.
"Y-You know, it's late at night," Yukinoshita blushed slightly. "What if someone sees us?"
Now it was Hikigaya's turn to blush. "R-right," he stammered, turning around and walking
towards the hotel, with Yukinoshita following behind.
Upon reaching the front door, they both agreed that Yukinoshita would enter first, and Hikigaya
would follow. Just before entering the hotel, Yukinoshita turned around.
"Thanks for walking me back," she said, and entered the building.
"Well, that was sweet," someone commented behind Hikigaya. He turned around to see his
teacher, Shoji-sensei, and standing next to him was Tobe.
"What are you guys doing out here?" Hikigaya inquired.
"What? You said you wanted answers, so follow me," Shoji replied, leading the way as Tobe and Hikigaya followed.
"Where are we going?" Tobe asked.
"You'll see," Shoji said.
After a few minutes of walking, the three of them stopped outside a shop. Hikigaya glanced at the shop's name.
"Royal Flush Plumbing?"
"What are we doing at a plumbing shop?" Tobe questioned.
Shoji Sensei didn't respond but instead walked into the shop, heading towards the bathroom.
Shoji entered the bathroom and turned back. "Are you two coming?" he asked.
Tobe and Hikigaya exchanged puzzled glances.
"Dude, I think Shoji Sensei might be a little crazy," Tobe whispered to Hikigaya.
"For once, I agree with you," Hikigaya whispered back.
Shoji grew a bit irritated when they whispered. "Are you two coming or not?" he raised his voice.
The two remained silent and walked into the small bathroom. Inside, they noticed that the bathroom had a vintage feel, complete with a chain to pull down to flush. Shoji pulled the chain, and what happened next left the two boys astonished.
The floor dropped beneath them. The bathroom was actually an elevator? It felt like they were descending endlessly, indicating they were going deep underground. Suddenly, the elevator came to an abrupt stop. The doors opened, and Hikigaya and Tobe were left mesmerized by the incredible sight before them—it was an underground base!
"Welcome to the Plumbers HQ," Shoji declared.
Computers filled the space, and everything seemed high-tech, constructed with expensive materials. But that wasn't the only surprising aspect. They noticed different types of aliens and humans donning white and black suits, bustling about.
"Follow me," Shoji beckoned, stepping forward, with the two boys trailing behind.
"Magister Shoji!" A young man, a few years older than the boys, rushed towards them. "Did you find the Omnitrix?" he began, but his words trailed off when he noticed the Omnitrix attached to Hikigaya's wrist.
"Um, Magister Shoji?" the young man questioned.
"I'll tell you later. For now, just keep quiet about this," Shoji whispered.
Shoji led the two boys into a room that resembled an office, filled with papers and various gadgets. He gestured for them to take a seat, and with a serious tone, he said, "Alright, you may ask your questions now."
Hikigaya, feeling uneasy, was the first to speak up. "How do I get this thing off?" he asked, pointing at the mysterious device on his wrist.
"I was hoping you wouldn't ask me that," Shoji muttered, his voice filled with uncertainty.
Confused and growing anxious, Hikigaya pressed on, "Why? What's wrong?"
Shoji hesitated for a moment before delivering the news. "Because kid, we don't know how to remove it."
Hikigaya jumped up in disbelief. "What do you mean you don't know how?" he demanded, frustration evident in his voice.
With a sigh, Shoji tried to explain, "Look kid, we know as much about the Omnitrix as you do. It hasn't been active for years, and this is the first time it's been activated."
Interrupting their conversation, Tobe, filled with excitement, exclaimed, "Oh, who are the Plumbers?" He slammed his hands on the desk, eager for answers.
With a calm demeanor, Shoji responded, "The Plumbers are an intergalactic law enforcement organization."
Tobe, fascinated, equated their role to space police. "So you guys are kinda like space police?"
Shoji nodded. "If you want to simplify things, then yes." He glanced over at Hikigaya, waiting for his question since Tobe had interrupted him earlier.
Curiosity burning in his eyes, Hikigaya inquired, "Who was the Plumber who brought the Omnitrix in?"
Shoji's silence hung in the air for a few seconds, making Hikigaya uneasy. Finally, Shoji broke the silence with a solemn tone. "The Plumber who brought it in was named Itou. Itou Yukinoshita."
The revelation hit both boys like a shockwave. Yukinoshita? The name struck a chord within them. Someone from the Yukinoshita family was involved with the Plumbers. But if Itou Yukinoshita brought the Omnitrix here, did that mean…
"I assume you both know Yukinoshita," Shoji said, sensing their silent realization.
The boys nodded, their expressions solemn and filled with questions.
Shoji leaned back in his chair, a nostalgic look in his eyes. "Yukinoshita Itou was one of the best Plumbers we ever had," he began, his voice filled with admiration. "He had the guts to take on the most dangerous missions that no one else dared to attempt."
Hikigaya observed Shoji intently. "It sounds like you knew him on a personal level," he remarked, curious to learn more.
Shoji's gaze shifted towards a framed photograph on the wall, depicting a younger version of himself standing alongside a man with black hair, a face that Hikigaya found strangely familiar. "We were partners," Shoji revealed, his voice tinged with a mix of pride and sorrow. "When I finished Plumber Academy, he was the first person to welcome me in."
Hikigaya couldn't help but ask the inevitable question. "So, what happened to him?" he inquired, sensing there was more to the story.
Shoji's expression turned somber. "We were on a mission to extract the Omnitrix and keep it safe," he disclosed. The two boys leaned in, hanging onto his every word.
"We were ambushed," Shoji continued, causing both boys to flinch. "By a very dangerous person."
Unable to contain his fear, Tobe interjected, "Um, if you don't mind me asking, who is this dangerous person?"
Shoji's voice grew serious. "His name is Vilgax, conqueror of worlds," he revealed. "He doesn't care who or what stands in his way. He will do anything to possess the Omnitrix."
Hikigaya's eyes widened in realization. Vilgax, the alien who sought the Omnitrix, now stuck on Hikigaya's wrist. It meant he was a target, and he needed to remove the watch as soon as possible.
"Doesn't that mean Vilgax will come after me soon?" Hikigaya asked, his voice laced with concern.
"Yes, that's why I'm here, to watch over you in case anything happens to the Omnitrix," Shoji replied, his tone resolute.
Hikigaya couldn't help but offer a sarcastic remark. "Wow, look at you, caring for your students."
Shoji's gaze hardened. "Look, Hikigaya, you're not the only one who wants the Omnitrix off you," he stated firmly. "No Plumber wants a high schooler to possess the most dangerous weapon in the galaxy."
Both Hikigaya and Tobe glanced down at Hikigaya's wrist, fully aware of the weight of the situation.
"Anyway, you two should get going. You still have one more day left for your trip," Shoji instructed, breaking the tense atmosphere.
Shortly after, the two boys left the Plumbers' base, making their way back to the hotel, their minds filled with questions and the looming threat of Vilgax.
As they made their way back, Tobe noticed the worried expression on Hikigaya's face. He nudged his friend gently.
"Hey, Hikitani, don't worry too much about the watch. I'm sure the Plumbers will find a way to remove it," Tobe said, his voice filled with optimism, trying to reassure Hikigaya.
"Yeah," he replied, his mind occupied with something else entirely. It wasn't just the Omnitrix that concerned him at that moment. He couldn't shake off the realization that someone connected to Yukinoshita was involved with the Plumbers. It sparked a flurry of thoughts in his mind, wondering about the significance of this connection.
As they continued walking, Hikigaya's thoughts swirled, contemplating the implications of having someone from Yukinoshita's family within the Plumbers. What did it mean? How did it tie into the Omnitrix? The pieces of the puzzle were slowly coming together in his mind, and he knew he had to find out more.
"AHHH! What was that!" Tobe's scream echoed through the dimly lit hallway, piercing the air with fear and surprise.
It was the day after, and the class had decided to visit a haunted house attraction. Hikigaya, however, remained unfazed. He knew that all the scares within these walls were merely illusions, not capable of matching the true terrors that life could bring. At least, that's what Hikigaya believed.
"I can't handle stuff like this," Yuigahama exclaimed, her voice trembling with unease.
"Did you hear that laughter?" Kawasaki clung tightly to Hikigaya's arm, seeking comfort in his presence.
Hikigaya turned his head to the left and spotted Totsuka. It seemed like Totsuka was genuinely enjoying the thrilling experience.
"You seem fine, Totsuka," Hikigaya remarked, his tone laced with curiosity.
"Oh yeah, I love this type of stuff!" Totsuka replied with a smile, clearly relishing the eerie atmosphere.
As the group ventured further into the haunted house, they encountered a zombie sitting on the floor. Without warning, the zombie sprang to life, startling everyone. In the chaos, Yuigahama accidentally bumped her head into Hikigaya's face, causing them both to tumble to the ground.
Kawasaki froze momentarily, her mind struggling to process the sudden scare. After a brief pause, she slowly regained her composure and began sprinting away, driven by pure instinct.
"Kawasaki, wait!" Totsuka shouted, swiftly giving chase to his panicked friend.
Hikigaya dusted himself off and stood up, gently rubbing his sore head.
"It's fine, don't worry about it." Hikigaya said. He raises his arm, offering to lend a hand. Yuigahama stared at Hikigaya for a while, surprised at his offering of help. Hikigaya realized how awkward it was getting so he pulled his hand away but Yuigahama grabbed his hand pulling herself up.
The two friends were the last to emerge from the haunted area, observing their classmates engaged in animated conversations. In a corner, they noticed Kawasaki, seemingly withdrawn and lost in her thoughts.
"Alright, is everyone ready?" Hayama's voice carried across the group, signaling their impending departure.
"I'll go get Ebina," Yumiko volunteered, making her way towards the nearby gift shop where Tobe and Ebina were.
High above in the sky, a robotic drone soared, scanning the surroundings. Its scanning abruptly halted as it detected a distinctive hourglass symbol. In response, the drone emitted a series of beeps, as if summoning a hidden presence.
Sitting down in an old Japanese house, Hikigaya sighed, his gaze fixed upon the serene garden. Tobe's earlier request was far from his mind. His life had taken an unexpected turn in just one night. Now, he found himself burdened with a powerful weapon strapped to his wrist, sought after by an alien war criminal.
"Fancy seeing you here," a voice Hikigaya recognized. He turned to his right, only to find Yukinoshita standing beside him.
"I didn't know you were here," Hikigaya replied, his curiosity piqued.
"Well, did you know that-" Yukinoshita's sentence trailed off as her eyes caught sight of the peculiar watch on Hikigaya's left wrist. It displayed an unusual green hourglass symbol. Although uncertain why, Yukinoshita felt a sense of familiarity with the symbol, as if she had seen it before.
"You were saying something?" Hikigaya inquired, intrigued by Yukinoshita's sudden pause.
"Hey, Hikigaya! Yukinon!" Yuigahama called out, interrupting their conversation. She waved them over, urging them to join her.
The trio strolled through the town, with Yuigahama leading the way. She had bought an assortment of food, eager to share it with her friends.
"Why did you buy all this food if you weren't going to finish it?" Hikigaya complained, voicing his confusion.
"Well, I thought I was hungry!" Yuigahama defended herself, attempting to justify her impulsive purchase.
"Hikigaya, just be quiet and eat it," Yukinoshita interjected, her tone carrying a hint of amusement.
Sighing, Hikigaya resigned himself to his fate, consuming the rest of his bun. The group paused momentarily to dispose of their trash. As Hikigaya caught a glimpse of his reflection in a nearby building's window, something in the upper right corner of the glass caught his attention. Turning around swiftly, he was met with the sight of a drone hovering in the air, a menacing red laser aimed directly at him!
Without a moment to spare, Hikigaya instinctively grasped Yukinoshita and Yuigahama's hands, propelling them forward in a desperate escape.
"Hiki!" Yuigahama exclaimed, her cheeks flushed with a mix of surprise and embarrassment.
Hikigaya led them through a swift turn around the corner, their footsteps echoing in their frantic retreat.
"Omnitrix found," the drone's voice echoed ominously, preceding its forceful descent to the ground. The drone underwent a remarkable transformation, unfolding its internal mechanisms to construct a formidable robot. Laser beams shot out from the robot's structure, causing buildings to crumble and debris to rain down. Panic-stricken civilians scattered, their terrified screams piercing the air.
Hikigaya pulled the girls along, guiding them all the way back to the hotel. As they arrived, they realized they weren't the only ones who sought refuge there. The hotel's front lobby teemed with students, their eyes glued to the television broadcasting the unfolding chaos.
"I repeat, please seek shelter immediately! Do not venture outside under any circumstances! I repeat, Kyoto is under attack!" the concerned reporter's voice blared from the TV.
"Alright, students, head to your rooms and do not leave! Stay away from the windows!" Hiratsuka Sensei's authoritative voice reverberated through the room, desperately urging everyone to prioritize their safety. However, instead of heeding her words, the students seemed transfixed by their phones, their attention captivated by the ongoing live broadcast.
"Alright, students, head to your rooms and do not leave! Stay away from the windows!" Hiratsuka Sensei's authoritative voice reverberated through the room, desperately urging everyone to prioritize their safety. However, instead of heeding her words, the students seemed transfixed by their phones, their attention captivated by the ongoing live broadcast.
Hikigaya glanced around, a mixture of frustration and concern evident in his eyes. Despite the clear instructions and the urgency in Hiratsuka Sensei's voice, it seemed as though the allure of real-time updates held a stronger grip on his classmates. He couldn't help but question their priorities in such a dire situation.
Sighing in exasperation, Hikigaya approached Yuigahama, who was intently staring at her phone screen. He gently tapped her shoulder, trying to divert her attention. "Hey, Yui, we should listen to Hiratsuka-sensei and go to our rooms. It's not safe here."
Yuigahama turned around, her eyes filled with a mix of gratitude and determination. With a nod, she firmly gripped Yukinoshita's hand, urging her to follow as they made their way towards their room. But just as they were about to proceed, Yukinoshita halted, her gaze fixed on Hikigaya, who stood there with a hint of unease etched on his face.
"Thank you, Hikigaya," Yukinoshita expressed her gratitude, her voice filled with sincere appreciation.
"Don't thank me…" Hikigaya said "I just managed to see what was going on before it happened"
Hikigaya rubbed the back of his head.
Yukinoshita nodded in understanding, acknowledging Hikigaya's sentiment. With a determined resolve, she turned her attention back to Yuigahama, joining her in their journey towards safety. Hikigaya watched them depart, a mixture of relief and concern lingering within him.
After that, Shoji-sensei walked up, placing a firm hand on Hikigaya's shoulder. "I need you to go over there," Shoji said, his voice filled with urgency.
"What the hell, no!" Hikigaya protested, his disbelief evident.
"Listen, kid, my team is being overwhelmed by that robot," Shoji explained, pointing directly at the Omnitrix. "And you have the power to stop it."
"I won't be some backup weapon for you when you guys can't handle the job!" Hikigaya argued, his frustration boiling over.
"Look, kid, the Omnitrix responded to you and only you. It chose you for a reason. Don't let it go to waste," Shoji implored, his words carrying a weight of responsibility.
Hikigaya fell into silence, his mind racing with uncertainty.
"Kid, if that robot succeeds, it will come after you next," Shoji revealed, his tone grave and serious.
"Why would it come for me?" Hikigaya questioned, his voice trembling with a mix of fear and confusion.
"Because that's Vilgax's drone," Shoji dropped the bombshell, his words sending a chill down Hikigaya's spine.
"Vilgax!" Hikigaya's eyes widened in realization, his fear transforming into resolute determination.
"If you don't stop it now, innocent lives will be lost," Shoji emphasized, urging Hikigaya to grasp the gravity of the situation.
"Dammit," Hikigaya gritted his teeth, his expression hardening with unwavering resolve. "Fine, I'll do it." With determination etched on his face, he accepted the daunting task before him.
Hikigaya dashed through the bustling streets of Kyoto, his heart pounding in his chest. He doesn't know why he's doing this, maybe because he doesn't want innocents to be harmed because he wanted to stand by, or he's just doing it because Shoji told him to.
Returning to his original location, Hikigaya's eyes widened as he beheld the sight before him—an enormous robot wreaking havoc upon its surroundings. The area seemed devoid of any onlookers, providing a peculiar sense of isolation amidst the chaos. Shoji's reassuring voice reached Hikigaya's ears, urging him to disregard the presence of surveillance cameras, assuring him of an imminent solution.
"Alright," Hikigaya muttered under his breath, a surge of determination fueling his next move. His hand reached for the Omnitrix, a device of immense power and possibilities. With a firm press, a dial emerged from the device, adorned with a flickering hologram.
Drawing a deep breath, Hikigaya steadied himself, his gaze fixed upon the dial. Without hesitation, he slammed the dial down, triggering an emerald flash that enveloped his entire being. His form underwent a remarkable transformation—growing taller, more slender, and undergoing a profound metamorphosis. His arms stretched and elongated, morphing into metallic claws, while his head assumed a sleeker, more angular shape, exuding a distinctly robotic essence.
As the dazzling radiance subsided, Hikigaya stood transformed once again.
With a determined stride, Hikigaya closed the distance between himself and the colossal robot. As the robot turned, its scanning gaze fixated on the Omnitrix adorning Hikigaya's chest, its eyes ignited in a menacing red glow.
Hikigaya's altered voice resonated in a robotic tone, expressing concern, "That's not good."
Reacting swiftly, Hikigaya leapt to the left, narrowly avoiding a laser shot that whizzed past him. Sensing the robot's impending strike, he deftly sidestepped its massive arm as it swung towards him, its clenched fist aiming to inflict a devastating blow. Agile and precise, Hikigaya expertly maneuvered behind the hulking machine.
"Alright, let's see what this guy can do," Hikigaya declared, raising his arm and pointing his formidable claw towards the robot. A surge of electric energy crackled in the air as he unleashed a relentless barrage of magnetic pulses, propelling the robot backwards in a stumbling motion.
However, the robot refused to succumb to defeat. With an ear-splitting roar, it charged at Hikigaya, its colossal fists slamming into the ground with a force that resonated through the surroundings. Swift as ever, Hikigaya evaded the assault, employing his magnetic powers to levitate gracefully beyond the reach of the robot's relentless strikes. Seizing the opportunity, Hikigaya retaliated with a mighty magnetic blast, propelling the robot backward with tremendous force. Yet, resilient and unwavering, the robot swiftly regained its footing, unleashing a barrage of missiles from its formidable arm cannons.
HIkigaya's reflexes proved unmatched as he gracefully evaded the explosive projectiles, utilizing his magnetic abilities to attract and redirect them away from the intense battle. The air crackled with energy as Lodestar deftly manipulated the forces at his command, locked in a captivating clash against the colossal automaton.
Hikigaya descended upon the robot, his hands crackling with unleashed energy. A relentless onslaught of magnetic blasts erupted forth, each strike delivering an impact akin to that of a speeding freight train. The robot staggered backward, its mechanical joints groaning under the strain, fiery sparks dancing across its metallic frame.
Unyielding in his assault, Lodestar pressed on, bombarding the robot with a ceaseless display of magnetic power. With a final surge of energy, the mighty automaton succumbed, crashing to the ground with a resounding thud.
The spectators who had been captivated by the fight watched in astonishment. News cameras swarmed the area, recording every moment of the extraordinary battle.
"Yukinon, what on earth was that?" Yuigahama queried, her voice tinged with awe and disbelief.
"I-I have no idea," Yukinoshita stammered, her eyes wide with wonder and intrigue.
Meanwhile, within the heart of the city, Hikigaya surveyed his surroundings, acutely aware of the multitude of news cameras surrounding him. The urgency to retreat from their relentless gaze washed over him, but before he could react, an unexpected blast struck him, sending him tumbling forward in a disorienting whirlwind.
Collecting himself, Hikigaya rose to his feet, only to find more of the menacing robots from before looming before him. A sense of realization swept over him as he muttered, "Okay, this might be more than I expected."
Before he could formulate a plan, one of the robots viciously slammed its arm into Hikigaya's gut, propelling him backward. Slowly regaining his footing, Hikigaya braced himself, but the situation took a perilous turn as the robots began to charge up, poised for a devastating attack.
Thinking quickly, Hikigaya harnessed his magnetic powers, utilizing them to pull the defeated robot forward, using it as a makeshift shield. In a cataclysmic explosion, the blast tore through the robot, hurtling Hikigaya into a nearby building with an overwhelming force.
Unbeknownst to Hikigaya, reinforcements arrived on the scene. Blasts resonated from behind the robot, diverting its attention to the newly arrived figures. A mix of frustration and relief welled within Hikigaya as he murmured, "Now you decide to show up..." It was the Plumbers, answering his call for assistance.
Meanwhile, within the confines of the hotel, the atmosphere buzzed with tension as everyone retreated to their rooms, their eyes glued to their phones, witnessing the unfolding spectacle of the ongoing battle. Yuigahama and Yukinoshita exchanged surprised glances, their gazes fixed on the captivating broadcast.
"What in the world is that thing?" Yumiko questioned, leaning in from the left of Yukinoshita, her eyes riveted to the screen, mirroring the bewilderment etched on her face. Kawasaki, in a hushed tone, muttered his agreement, finding the sight before him undeniably eerie.
Amidst their discussion about the enigmatic monster displayed on-screen, the hotel room door swung open, revealing the frantic figures of Hayama and Tobe.
"Have you guys seen Hikigaya?!" Hayama blurted out, his expression etched with panic.
Confusion rippled through the room as everyone exchanged bewildered glances.
"Isn't he in his room?" Yukinoshita inquired, her voice laced with concern.
"Yeah," Yuigahama nodded, her eyes widening. "We saw him heading towards the boys' room earlier."
Hayama shook his head, his distress deepening. "Hiratsuka-sensei couldn't find him there."
As their conversation unfolded, Tobe caught a glimpse of Yuigahama's phone, its screen displaying the visage of a yellow and black robotic figure, emblazoned with an hourglass symbol.
"I'll go search the lobby again," Tobe swiftly decided, determination flashing in his eyes. Without wasting another moment, he stealthily made his way out, rushing towards the heart of the city.
"Ah, come on," Yumiko exclaimed, her frustration evident in her voice. The broadcast stopped and started buffering on her phone. Somewhere else Shoji is pressing a button on some type of device.
"GAAHHH!" Hikigaya was flung forcefully down the street, his body crashing into a plumber's vehicle, causing it to erupt in a fiery explosion. With a jolt, Hikigaya stumbled out of the wreckage, his mind reeling from the impact.
"How am I still alive?" he exclaimed, his voice filled with astonishment and disbelief.
Without warning, a powerful laser blast struck Hikigaya from behind, propelling him forward. Reacting with lightning-fast reflexes, he managed to regain his footing and swiftly dodged the attack. "More robots," Hikigaya thought, a tinge of frustration creeping into his mind. Glancing around, he noticed injured plumbers seeking cover, leaving him alone to confront the relentless mechanical adversaries.
Before him stood three formidable robots, their menacing presence casting a shadow over Hikigaya's determination. The first robot charged at him, its claw swinging in a deadly arc. With a surge of magnetic energy, Hikigaya evaded the attack and retaliated, using his powers to push the robot backward. In a stroke of luck, the robot inadvertently shielded itself from a blaster shot unleashed by its companion, creating a gaping hole in its metallic exterior that rendered it immobile.
Seizing the opportunity, Hikigaya focused his attention on the second robot, utilizing his enhanced strength to pull it closer. With a swift, calculated strike, he delivered a powerful blow to the robot's head, causing it to malfunction and collapse.
Just as Hikigaya thought he had gained the upper hand, Tobe suddenly appeared from behind, witnessing the intense battle unfold before his eyes.
"What are you doing here?" Hikigaya shouted, his voice filled with a mixture of surprise and concern. In that very moment, the third robot seized Hikigaya, slamming him mercilessly into the ground, effectively immobilizing him. Its attention then shifted to Tobe, preparing to unleash a devastating blast. However, Hikigaya mustered his remaining strength, unleashing a torrent of magnetic energy towards the robot, causing every nearby metal object to converge and adhere to its body, rendering it motionless.
Surveying the scene, Tobe spotted a plumber's blaster lying on the ground. Acting swiftly, he seized the weapon, taking aim at the incapacitated robot.
"Take the shot!" Hikigaya commanded, his voice resonating with a robotic timbre.
Without hesitation, Tobe fired a precise shot, hitting the robot squarely in its head. With a resounding crash, the robot plummeted to the ground, defeated. Slowly rising to his feet, Hikigaya approached Tobe, a mixture of relief and gratitude washing over him. However, amidst the triumph, a familiar beeping sound emanated from his being, causing his body to flash in a vibrant red light, reverting him back to his human form.
"We should get out of here," Hikigaya suggested, his voice returning to its usual human tone.
Tobe nodded in agreement. As they were about to leave it all behind, Tobe's voice broke the silence.
"Oh, and watch out for Hiratsuka-sensei," Tobe warned, a note of caution lacing his words.
Hikigaya turned towards Tobe, a perplexed expression crossing his face.
The tension in the air was palpable as Hiratsuka's piercing gaze locked onto Hikigaya, her eyes ablaze with frustration. Standing beside her were Yukinoshita and Yuigahama, their expressions mirroring concern and worry.
"Where the hell were you?" Hiratsuka's voice rang out, her tone laced with anger and disappointment. The weight of her words hung heavily in the air, casting a somber mood over the scene.
"I told you, I was in the bathroom," Hikigaya argued, his voice filled with a mix of defensiveness and exasperation. He desperately sought to explain his absence, hoping to diffuse the mounting tension.
"I can vouch for him! I found him there," Tobe interjected. However, Hiratsuka's glare pierced through Tobe, silencing him.
Hiratsuka suddenly grabs Hikigaya, pulling him closer. "We're gonna have a nice talk when we get back," she declared, a smile dancing across her lips. But behind that smile Hikigaya sensed hostility. It was as if her smile concealed a storm, poised to unleash its fury at any given moment.
After Hiratsuka left, Yuigahama and Yukinoshita approached Hikigaya.
"Hiki, where were you?!" Yuigahama's voice rang out, her concern palpable.
"Oh, I was in the bathroom…" Hikigaya replied, going with Tobes cover story.
"At a time like this?!" Yuigahama's exclamation reverberated through the air, her disbelief cutting through the awkward silence that settled upon them.
Startled by Yuigahama's tone, Hikigaya flinched, his eyes darting briefly to Yukinoshita, who seemed lost in thought. Sensing the mounting tension, Hikigaya sought to redirect the conversation.
"Did the news say anything about what happened?" Hikigaya inquired, his voice laden with a mix of genuine curiosity.
Yuigahama shook her head, her eyes filled with uncertainty. "The broadcast suddenly stopped," she replied.
"I see," Hikigaya responded, a wave of relief washing over him. Shoji had assured him that the broadcast would be taken care of, sparing him the worry.
An awkward silence hung in the air, the weight of unspoken words suffusing the space between them. To break the awkward silence Hikigaya spoke up "Looks like we haven't made any progress with Tobe and Ebina."
"Hikigaya, we barely survived a sudden robot attack, and you're worried about Tobe's request," scolded Yukinoshita.
"R-Right," Hikigaya stammered, of course Hikigaya remembers. He just wanted to forget the part where he almost died from robots.
"But it seems I unintentionally fulfilled Hina's request," Hikigaya mused to himself, his gaze drifting to where Hayama stood, offering comfort to Yumiko.
Hikigaya's gaze lifted, catching sight of Shoji making his way towards their group.
"Are you guys okay?" Shoji asked.
They all nodded letting him know they were ok.
"Pack your bags, the school wants you guys to come home." Shoji said.
They begin to head towards their rooms, but before Hikigaya can leave Shoji puts his hand on HIkigaya's shoulder, pausing him in place.
"You did good out there." Shoji said before walking away.
As the sun began to set, casting a warm golden glow over Chiba, they finally arrived home. The air was tinged with a mixture of relief and apprehension as parents flocked to the school, eagerly awaiting the return of their children. Emotions ran high, with tears of joy and worry intermingling in a display of heartfelt reunions.
Hikigaya decided to make his way back home on foot. Lost in his contemplations, he was startled when Shoji's car pulled up alongside him.
"Get in," Shoji's voice carried an air of authority, leaving Hikigaya with little choice but to comply. Hesitant but resigned, he approached the passenger side and slid into the car. As he settled in, his eyes caught a glimpse of Tobe sitting in the back seat
Hikigaya's curiosity got the better of him, and he couldn't help but question the purpose behind this unexpected encounter.
"What is this about?" Hikigaya's voice held a tinge of skepticism, his eyes narrowing.
Shoji responded with a heartfelt expression. "I wanted to thank you two," he said, his words laden with genuine appreciation. "For helping the Plumbers out."
Tobe chimed in, flashing a playful smile. "Oh, no need to thank us," he remarked, his tone dripping with modesty. "We were just doing the right thing."
Hikigaya, however, remained unconvinced by the easy dismissal. He sensed there was more to Shoji's gratitude than met the eye.
"What do you really want?" Hikigaya's words cut through the air, his voice tinged with a mix of suspicion.
Shoji let out a weary sigh, he had underestimated Hikigaya's perceptive nature.
"Nothing gets past you, I see," Shoji conceded, a hint of admiration in his voice. It was clear that he couldn't hide his ulterior motives from Hikigaya's discerning gaze.
"I want you guys to join the Plumbers," Shoji declared, his words hanging in the air like a profound revelation.
Hikigaya and Tobe were rendered speechless, their minds struggling to comprehend the gravity of what they had just heard. They exchanged a glance, their silence serving as an unspoken invitation for Shoji to elaborate.
"I see great potential in you both," Shoji continued, his voice brimming with conviction.
"Hikigaya, you've shown remarkable adaptability, utilizing your surroundings to your advantage,"
Hikigaya didn't want to admit it, but that compliment fueled his ego a little.
"And Tobe, your courage and aim are impressive, especially for a beginner," Shoji praised,
"Well, I've been hunting with my grandparents every summer," Tobe admitted, his voice carrying a hint of sheepishness.
"But there's another reason why I want to start training you guys," Shoji confessed, his voice carrying a sense of urgency.
Hikigaya and Tobe focused their attention on Shoji, a mixture of concern and curiosity etched upon their faces.
"I want to prepare you for whenever Vilgax arrives," Shoji revealed, his words sending a chill down Hikigaya's spine.
"Vilgax..." Hikigaya's voice trembled.
"One of these days, he'll make his way to Earth, seeking to claim it for himself," Shoji explained, his tone grim. "That's why I want to start training you as soon as possible."
The car came to a halt outside Hikigaya's house, Shoji's somber gaze locking with Hikigaya.
"We'll do it, right Hikitani?" Tobe chimed in, his voice filled with determination.
Hikigaya's gaze fell upon his wrist, where the Omnitrix glimmered. The weight of the responsibility and the consequences of inaction pressed upon him.
"Look, kid," Shoji turned to Hikigaya, his voice laced with a sense of urgency. If you don't do this and Vilgax gets the Omnitrix, we're all screwed."
Hikigaya hesitated, "Can I have more time to think about this?" Hikigaya requested, his voice filled with a mixture of apprehension and contemplation.
Shoji sighed, realizing the gravity of the situation. "Alright, but I need your answer as soon as possible," he replied, his tone carrying a hint of resignation.
Hikigaya opened the car door, stepping out onto the pavement. Tobe followed suit, leaning in for one last exchange through the car window.
"I can walk from here," Hikigaya stated, his gaze fixed on the path before him.
Shoji nodded understandingly as he started the car, driving off into the distance. Tobe began walking alongside Hikigaya until he heard his friend's voice cutting through the quiet evening air.
"Sorry we weren't able to fulfill your request," Hikigaya said, his voice tinged with a hint of regret.
Tobe smiled warmly, dismissing any concerns. "Don't worry about it, Hikitani. I totally forgot about it by now," he reassured, his words carrying a sense of understanding. With a nod, Tobe walked away, leaving Hikigaya to his own thoughts.
"I see," Hikigaya murmured to himself, contemplating the events of the day. He turned towards his front door, preparing to step inside and seek solace in the familiarity of his home.
However, before he could even take a single step, a sudden blur collided into him, nearly knocking him off balance. Hikigaya quickly regained his footing and found himself face to face with Komachi, his younger sister.
"Thank goodness you're okay!" Komachi exclaimed, her eyes filled with relief. Hikigaya couldn't help but smirk at his sister's display of concern. "I didn't know you would be this worried about me," he teased, trying to hide his own emotions beneath a layer of humor. Komachi rolled her eyes, though a small smile danced on her lips. "I'm not! I'm only worried about you because Mom would be sad if something happened to you," she retorted, a touch of playfulness in her tone.
Hikigaya's smirk faded, "You don't mean that, do you?" he asked, a hint of vulnerability seeping into his words.
Komachi released her grip on her brother and took a step back, her eyes meeting his with an unwavering gaze. "That's up for you to decide," she replied, her smile widening.
Hikigaya walked up the stairs, his steps heavy with contemplation. The weight of Shoji's proposition lingered in his mind, and he couldn't shake off the unsettling feeling that accompanied it. With a sigh, he reached his room and flopped down on his bed, staring up at the ceiling.
He didn't really want to risk his life fighting Vilgax. The thought of putting himself in harm's way, facing unknown dangers, and potentially sacrificing everything he held dear was daunting. But deep down, Hikigaya knew that protecting the ones he cared about was worth any personal sacrifice. He had always been accustomed to making the selfless play in difficult situations, and this was no different.
His resolve solidified, Hikigaya stood up from his bed, determination shining in his eyes. He reached for his phone and dialed a familiar number, the anticipation building within him with each passing ring.
"Hello," came the voice on the other end.
Hikigaya took a deep breath, steadying himself. "I have my answer."