Chapter 30: "Upper Crust Menagerie"

I could feel the opulence from around the street corner. The lights from the courtyard beamed into the sky, and illuminated the trees on the sidewalks around. Like ethereal towers that soared into the heavens.

I turned to my passenger. "Is this it?"

Of course it was. Why was I even asking?

"Yes." Yukinoshita Yukino, currently clad in a black evening gown, confirmed my suspicions. Another case closed by Detective Hikigaya.

From the driver's seat of Yukinoshita's Mercedes, I looked over the road and carefully brought us up the block. As I approached the curb in front of the venue, a young valet came up immediately. His eyes widened in recognition of the car.

"Good evening, Yukinoshita-sa…" The greeting died in the valet's throat as he saw me slide out of the driver's seat.

I grunted and handed him the keys to the car. The valet's stare didn't leave me until he saw Yukinoshita getting out of the passenger's side. His eyes widened to the size of saucers, and I'm tempted to call an ambulance. Yukinoshita walked to my side and we made our way towards the entrance. Passing a glance over my shoulder, I caught the valet looking at our backs with a mystified expression. You would have thought a pig with cherub wings had just floated by.

"See?" I whispered to Yukinoshita. "You should have driven!"

"In heels like these? Hikigaya-kun, I wasn't aware you had such sadistic tendencies."

"Don't twist my words." I grumbled, a bit irked. "Who knows what he's going to be spreading around."

"It might be to my benefit actually…"

"Come again?"

A few days ago Yukinoshita had requested that we have a "date" on Saturday night. Turned out this "date" was actually accompanying her to a social function that the Yukinoshitas were hosting. According to Yukinoshita, it was a party to announce that her father was running for Prime Minister. A lot of influential and well known politicians, businessmen, and socialites would be attending. All were allies to the Yukinoshita.

And then there was me. Dressed up like a penguin in a tux that felt two sizes too small. It was a miracle I was able to get the shoulder holster to fit. How did James Bond manage?

"I still don't get why you brought me along as your plus-one. You could have taken Yuigahama along and spared me the torture."

Yukinoshita pursed her lips. "Yui-san received her own invitation, but turned it down."

"Huh. I thought she would jump at the chance to hang out with you."

"I suspect she was trying to be accommodating. Or perhaps she was busy with something else, I am unsure. Well, let us go in."

"Wait. You didn't answer my question."

"Does it concern you that much?"

"Yes."

Yukinoshita frowned. "You are aware that I've recently come back to Japan permanently, yes? Well, unfortunately I am of marriageable age. With my family's position and my father running for Prime Minister, the number of suitors is bound to increase. I expect some pestering during the party."

"So I'm a deterrent? I didn't know you read Waltz." [1]

"I would say more of a scarecrow. Your naturally disgusting aura should drive away the preening birds. I prefer Sagan's stance anyhow." [2]

I sighed and held my arm out. "Armed escort it is."

Yukinoshita giggled softly and took the offered arm.

We walked out onto a garden of perfectly cut grass, illuminated with tall lamps that emitted a soft yellow glow. The brilliant colors bouncing off of the walls were courtesy of the well lights that swapped between colors seamlessly. A live brass band played jaunty melodies. The gathering had a festive atmosphere.

Men in sharp tuxedos formed small groups where they traded jokes and cast sidelong glances at the... specimens of the dual X-chromosome variety on display.

Women in fancy evening gowns flitted like sprites. The variety of clothing they wore was more prominent than the attire of the men. Colors ranged from soft yellows to proud blues, accenting designs with various traits. Some were sleeveless, others sheath-style. Others were open-backed, and even more being a mermaid style. It was like a well-to-do fashion magazine had leapt out into the real world.

Yukinoshita herself was hardly out of place in this gala. Her attire was an elegant single piece black affair that accentuated her slim figure and hugged her hips before spilling to the floor. No embroidery nor patterned prints, just solid black. The neckline was low, but not scandalously so; revealing just enough pale skin to get the, uh, imagination stimulated. She had opted to remove her trademark ribbons for the night, her long black hair freely reaching her lower back. All in all, the status quo was kept: she was beautiful.

I was momentarily stunned when something hit my back. A reporter with a large camera had reversed into me as she tried to get a better shot of the gala. She apologized quickly and returned to work.

"What a circus." I whispered to Yukinoshita.

"I don't disagree." She responded quietly. "But my mother has taken it seriously, considering the magnitude of the announcement."

With practiced efficiency as expected of the daughter of a prominent politician and member of high-society, Yukinoshita let go of my arm and flagged down a waiter and quickly procured two glasses of champagne without moving a step from my side.

"This should help with the edge," she explained as she offered me a glass.

I raised an eyebrow at the offering, but still reached out. My fingers curled around the glass stem, but didn't move when I pulled. Puzzled, I looked at Yukinoshita, who had a severe facial expression on.

"Remember. Moderation. Only two to three glasses of champagne at most, with intervals of thirty minutes in between glasses. You are not to consume any hard drinks, is that understood?"

I nodded slowly, aware that I had just accepted a blood pact.

"So what do we do?" I tried to defuse the tension. "Stand around and look pretty? If that's the plan I'm sorry to disappoint. Only one of us can do that, and it certainly isn't you." My words were greeted with a less than amused smile.

"Not at all. I actually wished to test out a social science theory. Perhaps if we remove your glasses we can split the crowd with repelling Hachiman-waves."

"I emit some sort of fundamental field now? And besides you forced me to wear these!"

"And was it not a good decision?"

"You know, the way you constantly swap topics is disorienting and annoying."

A grin tugged at her lips. "Is it working?"

"Unfortunately." I sipped at my champagne.

"Yukino-channn!" The voice of Yukinoshita Haruno called out of the sea of people. "Oh, Hikigaya-kun, it's nice to see you!"

I broke out into a cold sweat, as I felt stares latch on to my person. I was some nobody who walked in with Yukinoshita Yukino draped over my arm, and now Yukinoshita Haruno was calling out to me in an amicable manner. I wouldn't be surprised if my mere association with the sisters drummed up enough hatred that I would wake up with my feet encased in concrete and then unceremoniously dropped into Tokyo Bay.

Probably to be fished out by some poor man who would throw my body back into the water thinking I was the remains of some kappa.

"Nee-san, have some restraint. You're making a scene." Yukinoshita scolded.

"Yukino-chan is so mean!" Haruno's pout evaporated as she gave a broad smile. "Never mind that, look who I have with me!" She moved aside to show a middle-aged couple.

"Oh. Arata-san, Fujiko-san, good evening. It has been some time." Yukinoshita greeted and gave a formal bow.

I took a good look at the couple before us. The man had salt and pepper hair with a sharp beard that was trimmed to perfection. It was all encased by a grey tuxedo accented with a shimmering deep blue-tie. His partner was a woman with long blonde hair and steel grey eyes; she was wearing a dress of the same shade of grey as her husband. A necklace of bright blue stones adorned her neck.

"Yukino-chan it's been so long!" said Fujiko-san as she stepped forward and gave Yukinoshita a crushing hug. "You're growing to be as beautiful as your mother. Oh, but you look like a ghost! Did you eat enough? Did you sleep well in Europe? Was the air clean?" She began inspecting Yukinoshita like a master pastier inspecting a cake, touching and prodding in an overly worried manner.

It was actually kind of fun to see Yukinoshita so uncomfortable.

"I'm sorry about this." Smiled Arata-san wryly. "Fujiko missed you dearly while you were away. Kept pestering Hayato about your whereabouts. Nearly jumped on the closest bullet train to Tokyo when she heard you were back for good."

Hayato? Why does that name sound so familiar?

"It's fine Arata-san," Yukinoshita said apologetically. "I should have informed you of my arrival much earlier."

"Don't be, I heard you got yourself wrapped up in work."

"For shame, Yukino-chan!" Exclaimed Fujiko-san. "You come back and just start working? My, you poor thing. You're turning into a workaholic like your father."

I snorted softly at the irony, which attracted a cold glare from Her Frigidness.

"Ah yes!" Haruno said suddenly, attracting the attention of the couple, "Hikigaya-kun you haven't met them before right? These are Hayato's parents!"

My brain derailed at the speed of sound. Wait, Hayato's parents? As in HAYAMA Hayato? I should have known from the way Yukino addressed them. Damn, caught off guard.

"These are our close family friends, the Hayama's. This suave gentleman is my father's personal lawyer for Yukinoshita Construction, Hayama Arata. This lovely lady is his wife, Hayama Fujiko. She's currently the Head Doctor of Medicine at Chiba University Hospital." Haruno grabbed onto my arm, taking the position that Yukinoshita had vacated, causing the younger sister to narrow her eyes at us. "And this is my partner in crime, Hikigaya Hachiman!"

"You mean 'partner in fighting crime'." I corrected blandly. With a sigh, I extended a hand (as it is only polite according to Yukinoshita). "A pleasure to meet you."

"Likewise, Hikigaya-san," says Arata-san, shaking my hand as he gave me a scrutinizing look. "You work for Haruno, I presume? I'm afraid I haven't seen you in her offices on the occasions I visit."

"Ah, no. I'm a detective. I'm stationed at Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department. Yukinoshita-san comes over frequently to discuss cases and compile evidence as the assigned district attorney."

"A detective?" Fujiko-san's eyes sparkled. "How fascinating!"

"I'm afraid it's not as impressive as the television shows make it seem. It's just a lot of paperwork. Courtesy of our very own District Attorney." I explained with a stiff smile, hoping that this would lower her expectations.

"Hikigaya-kun, this humility act is quite irritating you know!" Haruno ignored my little aside and got unnecessarily close and pinched my cheek. So close I could feel them against my arm, my face beginning to glow red. "Hayato always said you were self deprecating."

"Yeah, well, not all of us can have all the confidence in the world."

"You know our son?" Fujiko-san looked at me with curiosity, her interest not having diminished in the least.

"We were in the same class in our second and third year in high school." I answer carefully.

"Oh, I see! You also attended Soubu? Delightful, is that how you also met Yukino-chan? Hayato never mentioned you before."

Fujiko-san motioned to a waiter mid sentence, swapping out their empty champagne glasses for new ones. Huh… the way they held them...

"Hikigaya-kun was a clubmate of mine. He and Hayato-san were never that close. They just interacted when Hayato-san came with requests to the Service Club." Responded my former club president in my stead.

My deepest thanks, Yukinoshita, you saved me. I couldn't just come out and say that I hated their son.

"Is that riiiighhht?," said Fujiko-san as she took a sip, elongating the words like Komachi often did when she weighed the words in her mind. She passed a lingering glance over me. I suddenly felt like a potato at the market being inspected by a fisherman's shrewd wife.

Yukinoshita threw a scary glare down at her sister. "And Nee-san. You shouldn't behave like that with other men, what would Matsui-san think?"

Matsui? Matsui, who?

"Ehhhh!" Exclaimed Haruno as she squeezed my arm tighter. I yelped and a bit of my champagne sloshed out of my glass at the sudden movement. "Itsuki wouldn't mind. He knows my heart is only for him!"

Is this the furtive man who was involved romantically with Yukinoshita Haruno? The brave soul who was at her mercy? Was my theory from long ago correct?

"Nee-san, it's inappropriate no matter how you approach this."

"Finnneeeee." Haruno let go of her vice grip, to my relief. "I won't hog your date tonight Yukino-chan! But Hikigaya-kun, you have to dance with me later, 'kay?"

She glided away before I could refuse.

I turned to face Yukinoshita, who looked at me as if I just insulted a cat. "What?"

"Nothing at all, Hikigaya-kun. I was just questioning the direction our society is headed with a man of your virtue in charge of maintaining its justice."

"Oi, that's a bit complex. Even for an insult from you."

Soft chuckling from Arata-san and Fujiko-san reminded us of their presence. They gave us amused looks, small smiles on their face.

"Well, we'll leave you young-people to enjoy yourselves. It was nice meeting you Detective Hikigaya."

"Enjoy the party, Detective Hikigaya!"

And they were gone.

I exhaled. One conversation in, and I was already exhausted.

"Well… that happened." I took a long sip of my champagne, hoping the alcohol would re-energize me enough to brave through the night. The situation looked dire.

"Arata-san and Fujiko-san were around as long as I could remember. Nee-san often babysat us at their house so I saw them frequently. I always thought of them as familiar strangers." Yukinoshita explained as she stepped closer to me, looking out over the crowd of people. "Fujiko-san in particular tends to be very… intimate."

"I could tell, you looked close-ish." I lowered the glass and took a curious look at Yukinoshita. "Hey Yukinoshita, as a kid, how often did you go to their place?"

"Hmm, before middle school, every other day I would estimate."

"Did they have dogs?"

"Yes, yes they did," said Yukinoshita, turning to look at me in surprise. "How did you know?"

"Probably big dogs, right? Like a meter tall or so. More than one, maybe three?"

"Hikigaya-kun, this is extremely disconcerting." She crossed her arms with a skeptical look. "How on Earth are you aware of this?"

I shrugged noncommittally. "The way they held their glasses. It wasn't at a normal height, it was higher. As if they were used to keeping something away from the ground, like a dog wanting to steal your food from your hands. Hayama's father tends to look out of the corner of his eye whenever he takes a step after looking forward. A habit from multiple dogs milling around your feet. Big enough that you wouldn't have to tilt your head downwards."

"I am actually chilled at this deduction." She shivered dramatically. "They did indeed have four dogs, two German Shepherds, a golden retriever, and a Tibetan mastiff. They would frequently jump on anyone near them if they had food."

"Hmm… is that why you're afraid of dogs?"

Yukinoshita's face flushed in embarrassment as she whipped her head around to look away from me.

"You probably got tackled by two or more to the ground when you had something in your hands, didn't you? Guessing your sister was involved; told you to try and feed them?"

A small gasp, was all the confirmation I needed.

I grinned at my victory. Intent on keeping it that way I spoke up. "Alright enough sulking, I'm feeling some grub right about now."

"Honestly…" An exasperated response. Her face was still a tad red, but a tired smile adorned it. "Let's go see what the catering hall has."

I once again offered my arm in as pretentious a manner as possible. I could feel the shit-eating grin on my face. She pouted, but took it anyway.

Our search for food was a doomed mission from the start.

I should have known that association with the Yukinoshitas would, by proxy, bleed to me. Numerous people stopped us as we made our way to the catering hall. Acquaintances of the Yukinoshitas. Allies within local politics. Owners of companies affiliated with Yukinoshita Construction.

Holy hell, did I just meet the Police Commissioner and his wife!? He gave me an approving look when Yukinoshita introduced me as a Detective from Tokyo Metro PD. I could almost feel the promotion.

My presence did indeed seem to deter men from approaching the Ice Queen. I had built a habit to always be aware of my surroundings since Sri Lanka. Although me twisting and turning my head frequently had caused Yukinoshita to squeeze my forearm painfully and scold me to stop.

I was able to notice some men who were intent on walking up to Yukinoshita but backed away when they met my eyes, fleeing with their tails between their legs. Oh those sweet summer children, unaware that they had taken the right decision to keep away from her Royal Coldness. A brave few still attempted to strike up conversations with Yukinoshita, but were swiftly shut down verbally. The persistent few seemed to especially irritate her, but they gave up when she again denied them all the while hugging my arm closer, to my embarrassment.

Yukinoshita-san, I know you're upset at these cannon-fodder fools but please don't play with my emotions like this. If I was any other guy, I would be assuming a lot of things by now!

After what felt like thirty different people and families approaching us did we finally reach the appetizer buffet bar. Yukinoshita explained that the food was self-serve until the main meal. It was to discourage people walking around with food and potentially ruining the lawn. Sounded good to me, the food was pristine and I could eat whatever I wanted. Salmon tartar being atop my list.

"Please behave yourself." Sighed Yukinoshita as she watched me inhale the fancy finger foods.

"There you are, Yukino-dear. And oh! Hikigaya-san! " A familiar, more mature, voice called out to us.

We turned to see Yukinoshita's mother approaching us. Of course, this action was noticed by the gallery. It felt like being under the telescopic sights of perched snipers. What did that feel like? Imagine a single drop of water crawling down your back and prickling you all the way down. Source: me.

"Mother, good evening. I apologize, we were just coming to greet you after Hikigaya-kun finished eating." Yukinoshita explained.

"Nothing to worry about." Waved away her mother. "I was wondering who you would bring as your plus one. In hindsight, I should have known. How are you enjoying yourself tonight, Hikigaya-san?"

Her ice blue eyes turned to me, and suddenly the snipers were washed away by a stronger force. Like a blizzard.

"Quite a bit, ma'am." I winced internally, 'Ma'am' just sort of slipped out.

"That's good," she said as she touched my arm gently. "Why don't you sit at our table for dinner? We have some extra seats to spare."

"Umm, is that a good idea, Yukinoshita-san?" I took careful look at the party goers, some occasionally giving us pointed looks before looking away. If I wasn't careful, I would be sucked into this madness of upper-class drama.

"Hikigaya-san?" Yukinoshita's mom spoke after noticing my action. The Ice Empress activated her Stand: The Freeze. [3] I was scared stiff, like a mouse caught out in the open beneath the stare of a cat. "You are a close friend of my family. Close friends of the Yukinoshita are always welcome at our gatherings. We always make sure to take care of our own. Now how about you sit with us?"

Ignoring how she arbitrarily declared me as a "close family friend", she left no room for a negative response. Did I get her Stand power wrong? Maybe she actually had special eyes and just cast a Geass on me? I felt compelled to accept. [4]

"S-sure, Yukinoshita-san." I answered meekly.

She flashed me a measured smile and walked away, to mingle with the rest of the guests.

"I think my mother is fond of you," said Yukinoshita, looking like she was trying very hard to not laugh.

"I'm afraid to know what she does to people she really likes."

"Oh, I think you'll know soon enough." The corner of her lip twisted upwards despite her self control. My stomach lurched. Yeah, I guess twisted personalities were just a genetic thing in this family.

Our attention was captured by the sound of the loudspeakers turning on, with a man asking for everyone's attention. On a low stage stood Yukinoshita's father who held a microphone in his hand.

"I would like to first thank everyone for coming tonight, your presence has made this event a success!" He raises a glass in toast, an action that was met with soft applause.

"I look back on my life and I'm astonished at how things have changed. My father was the fourth family head to run Yukinoshita Construction. We were once specialists in wooden houses and pouring foundations, but over the generations we turned into a modern development powerhouse.

"I watched as he expanded the company, adding services and taking ambitious projects. Working throughout the night to the light of our kitchen fixtures, where he would stay so as to not disturb the sleep of the rest of the family. Not all decisions he made were successful, in fact I would hazard to say that a majority failed. But he did not give up, a lesson of perseverance I carry with me to this day.

"My father was not strict. On the contrary, I would say he was worried that simply being his son would limit my freedom, my ability to enjoy life. He said I could be whatever I wanted to be. So as I grew, I tried my hand at many different things. I played with instruments for a time, and considered a career as a biologist near the end of college.

"But nothing called out to me. Nothing felt right, or satisfying. That I could be content with this. There was always a nagging feeling that things just weren't fitting into place.

"The untimely death of my father had left me in a position where I could take over as his heir, or pass it onto my younger brother. He was much too young, and I felt responsible for the family my father had nurtured and protected, so I became the leader of Yukinoshita Construction.

"My work took me to many different parts of the country. I was exposed to the riches that Japan is capable of, the natural beauty we try to match in our architecture. But I also witnessed those most misfortunate. Born or raised under difficult circumstances, I had realized how lucky I had been myself. Yet they still tried to lead a life, despite the hardships they faced.

"The new experiences never ended. I met many people from all walks of life. Listening and understanding their desires and concerns. Eventually I got married to my lovely wife and had two beautiful daughters. Another experience, fatherhood, finally pushed me to do something more substantial. And so I entered politics, to share the perspectives of all who I interacted with, so my contemporaries and I may change society for the better of many.

"And there, I felt it. That feeling that I had found my place. My calling. It was the Yukinoshita legacy. It was my family. It was in listening to the hopes and dreams of others and bringing that into fruition as best I could for the benefit of all. Be it a private house, or a massive public work.

"Our homeland has seen better days, despite the modern innovations that improve our lives, we are on the cusp of a collapse. Our birth rate is declining; our workforce is shrinking; the SEA conflict has not ended and flooding the seas with innocent victims who have nowhere to go but our borders. What are we to do?

"I implored my colleagues that we must move decisively but cautiously. To carefully plan our steps with logic and empathy, while respecting the values our ancestors had passed down. Many found my message to be powerful, and suddenly I had allies to support a goal of a better Japan. My friends, and family all encouraged me to take the next step.

"I would like to thank the head of the Moderate Party, Senator Doi Masayuki for his guidance. I would like to thank my wife, and my daughters for their support in this undertaking. I, Yukinoshita Yoshirou, am announcing my candidacy for Prime Minister, running under the banner of the Moderate Party."

Thunderous applause fills the air as Yukinoshita's father bowed to the crowd. He begins thanking the audience for their approval, but it was drowned out by the jubilance. I look to my side and see Yukinoshita looking at her father with a proud expression on her face.

Yukinoshita has come far from her high school days. She was always idolizing her father from a distance, a certain wish to become like him. But because of the situation within the Yukinoshita family, this idolization had grown into a toxic respect.

Yukinoshita kept silent because her path had been chosen already, or so she believed. It was a thought born from the preconception that she had to be Haruno. Yukinoshita couldn't be the ideal woman that her sister could act as. But all that was behind her now, and she could openly express her emotions and desires.

It was nice to see that the hard work we had finished so many years ago had finally bore tangible fruit.

As the crowd dispersed and returned to their socializing, Yukinoshita excused herself to the bathroom. Leaving me standing alone.

"Ah, Hikigaya-san!" Yukinoshita's father called out to me.

My thoughts go cynical, as I had already attracted a ton of attention to myself throughout the night. This? This was the final knockout punch. I couldn't refuse a direct address by the host of the party without looking like a complete fool.

Death in Tokyo Bay wasn't looking so bad right about now.

I walked over to the man, and noticed the group he was a part of. A gathering of gentlemen with smart looking suits and calm faces. Just with a glance, I could tell I was in the presence of powerful people. It was like being surrounded by dragons. Ancient, wise, powerful, and dangerous, the men assembled before me could alter lives by just raising a hand or saying a single word offhandedly.

"Hikigaya-san, I see Yukino did bring you after all," Yukinoshita's father said with an 'as-I-thought' tone to his voice. "How are you enjoying the festivities so far?" His face beamed at me. The worst part was that it was most likely a genuine smile.

"The food was delicious." I answered plainly.

He chuckled. "Good, very good! Let me introduce you to some of my friends." He turned to face the collection of men before him.

"This is Detective Hikigaya Hachiman, he's stationed at Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department. He works with my eldest daughter. And went to high school with my youngest."

"It's nice to meet you." I gave a small bow at the waist for good measure. I was a master of kowtowing.

"This is my colleague and mentor, Senator Doi Masayuki. The head of our Moderate Party."

As I suspected, I was introduced to various politicians and businessmen. Many of the Moderate party, but one or two from the Conservatives and Progressives were also present.

And most surprisingly…

"And this is Murata-san's pupil who he is grooming to be a bureaucrat, Kazuya Ryunosuke."

The former JSDF special forces soldier was here at the party, the last place I would have expected.

"We meet again, Detective Hikigaya."

"It would seem so, Kazuya-san."

Yukinoshita's father looked surprised. "You two have met?"

"I had an investigation in the area where Kazuya-san's business was located. I had asked him some questions, which is how we met."

"I see, I see. Hope you're not up to any monkey-business, Kazuya-san!"

Whatever awkward atmosphere was created by my introduction was removed with that joke from Yukinoshita-san. The group all shared a hearty laugh. I was impressed at the social grace of Yukinoshita Yoshirou.

"You are quite young for a Detective." Complimented one of the politicians. But I knew better, the man was fishing. Questioning my legitimacy— and more importantly— my intelligence. "We need more young men like you. Ambitious ones."

I gave an uneasy laugh, speaking slowly so as to not say the wrong thing. "I just happened to know the right people and produce good results. My only real skill was probably how I leveraged my luck."

Another round of rumbling chuckles followed and discussion took over the group.

I stayed quiet and allowed them to talk. The way they converse was fascinating. It was like a game of hot-potato bomb-defusal. Their words were polished, and they covered their opinions within opposing statements. It was like placing a plastic explosive within a gift box, and then covering it in shiny wrapping paper complete with a dainty bow. It was masterful deception, one that others had to unravel and neutralize before returning the favor.

I was almost impressed, if it wasn't for how sickening it was. I had to remind myself that politics was another world; one that I couldn't (and shouldn't) step foot in.

At some point, Kazuya had excused himself, which pulled me back to the discussion at hand.

"The Japanese economy is in shambles, we need to get our labor sector going if we wish to weather the inevitable economic recession. We should take advantage of the willing workers who came to our shores. A better immigration plan is absolutely paramount!" Urged a man, Ota Eiichi I think.

Tanaka Heizo shook his head. "I see the need to fill the workforce, but we have to keep in mind that the refugees have nothing. No wealth, no possessions, just their bodies. They cannot contribute to the economy immediately, and will strain the system instead. They will require healthcare and financial aid until they can support themselves. Can we really redirect money from the budget towards them when we have other issues?"

Oh dear, a hot button issue. Someone get me out of here.

"Suffering in the short term to benefit in the future has been a common tactic from days long past. Though, what important services require money at this moment?" Ota questioned his collegue.

Heizo's face crumpled as he thought seriously. "We could spend money on better family programs, encourage the young to get married and have children. We should also lobby for revised labor laws to further incentivize starting familial units. Perhaps the government can help establishments open trade schools to get the undereducated or unemployed into fast track careers. The money should be spent on the next generation."

"Interesting words." Ota looked at me. "What do you think, Detective Hikigaya?"

"H-huh?" I was suddenly pulled into the conversation on a divisive topic. "P-pardon me?"

Ota gave me a disarming smile. "You are a career holder of the next generation, what do you think of the current situation going on in the country? While we may vote for legislation, it is your generation that will be affected by its effects."

The circle of politicians, and Yukinoshita's father, looked at me very expectantly.

Shit, shit, shit. Worse case scenario. I needed to pick my words extraordinarily carefully. Like crawling through the brush at night in enemy territory: go low and slow.

"Well… on one hand, the current condition is worrying. But the shrinking workforce has benefitted me personally. I was promoted quickly from training due to the lack of trained personnel. But there are obvious pitfalls in hiring fresh recruits into positions of responsibility, it's concerning to say the least.

"My colleagues and I are overworked, because of that lack of personnel. People are being forced to work double or even triple duties, which reduces morale and lowers the quality of our work. I can't speak for everyone, but I personally would like help. No matter where it came from.

"I don't know whether opening up immigration or accepting refugees is right or wrong, but I don't think we can use a 'wait-and-see' approach. At the end of the day, it will be the government that determines the morality of the problems and will act accordingly. I agree with Yukinoshita-san in that there is a need to tread carefully."

There, this was the best non-answer I can give. I didn't take a side, and I addressed the points they cared about.

The politicians all nodded their heads in understanding.

"Those are some impressive words, Detective Hikigaya. We didn't consider the current working class enough, and the ailments that young adults have that are entering the workforce." Ota remarked.

Heizo nodded. "Indeed, you have made it clear that the matter is time sensitive, but crucial that we handle it well. It seems that bipartisan agreement will be a necessity to produce a satisfactory outcome."

Yukinoshita's father patted my back. "Wise words, Detective Hikigaya. Your thoughts reflect the mantra of the Moderate Party."

"That it does." The old man, Doi Masayuki drawled, turning a venerable eye over me. "Young Hikigaya, are you interested in joining politics? An intelligent young man like yourself would certainly be an asset to Japan in the future."

Heh, I'm so screwed. I gave an uneasy smile. This veteran politician saw through my ploy instantly. By not trying to answer the question to avoid attention, I inadvertently interested Doi. Talk about bad luck.

"It's not likely." I admitted. "I don't think I'm suited for it. I think I can be of better use to Japan in my current career field.

"A shame," said Doi. "But I can respect such a desire."

"Nonetheless, the future is bright." Yukinoshita's father swept up all of us with his charismatic smile and voice. "If there are hardworking young men and women like Detective Hikigaya then we can rest easy knowing that half our worries are for naught. All we need to do now is create a base for the next generation to grow off of."

I thanked him for his compliments, and used this as an opportunity to excuse myself to go to the bar for another drink. A successful tactical retreat.

I strolled over to the bar and saw Kazuya tending to a glass of whiskey in his hands.

"Detective."

"Kazuya-san."

We greeted each other curtly, but in a mutually respectful manner.

"Wouldn't have thought you were associated with the Yukinoshitas. You didn't seem like a person interested in politics."

I snorted. "I'm not. I just happened to go to the same high school as their youngest daughter. I met the rest of the family as time went on." I signaled to the bartender, who walked over to me. "Can I get a rum and cola?"

He left to make my drink, and I returned my attention to Kazuya-san. "What about you? Then again, I guess Yakuza do have ties with politicians nowadays. Being more 'legitimate' now than in the past."

"What gave it away?" Kazuya's eyes widen.

I grinned bitterly. "Well for one, your customer base when I visited was pretty suspect. That, and you just confirmed it for me. Sorry."

"I can see why you're a Detective." Kauzya chuckled dryly.

My drink was delivered to me now, and I take it with a nod of thanks. "My work is my pleasure." I drawled sarcastically.

We fell into silence, savoring our beverages. I'm not a fan of rum, but the sweet cola does mask it. The bubbling sensation distracted my mouth from the harsh burning sensation of the hard alcohol. I liked the dichotomy.

"I heard what you said about the refugee crisis." Kazuya started evenly.

"Do you disagree?" I took a sip of my drink.

"I don't." Kazuya admitted. "I just think your choice of words was interesting."

I couldn't help but get curious. "What caught your attention?"

"You said that you weren't sure of your own ideas of right and wrong on the issue. But then you said that the government would be the final arbiter on morality."

"You think it's a cop out answer?"

"Not at all, I think you tried to say that distinctions between right and wrong are useless."

"Hoh? You're pretty perceptive yourself."

"Wouldn't say so." Kazuya shrugged. "Just something I think every soldier comes to realize at some point or another. When you ask yourself if it's okay to pull the trigger or not."

"I get it."

Yes, I really do get it.

When you're trained to kill efficiently you have an existential crisis of sorts. As a child your parents yell at you never to harm others. Your schooling will encourage you to avoid confrontations and hostilities. To never injure others was the expectation you were raised in, indoctrinated with. Yet, here you were as a soldier, doing the opposite. Not only that, but you were spurred on by society to do so. It was expected of you. It was like whiplash.

Most, including myself, ignored it at first. We were only shooting targets and wooden mannequins afterall, no need to overthink. But when you look down your sights at another human being, and your finger is just a hair's width away from pressing the trigger, you asked yourself that fatal question.

"Is it alright, to kill another person?"

As soon as that thought crossed your mind, the floodgates opened.

"Is this the right thing to do?"

"Is this really okay?"

"What should I do?"

Most came to the epiphany that they don't know what's actually right or wrong. They were just going off of what others told them, like sleepwalkers. But now they were awake, having realized the true reality of the situation they were caught in. What they wanted to protect, what their enemy was protecting. What they had to do, what their enemy had to do. The soldier had to decide. And the decision would ultimately come down to whether that trigger finger moved or not.

I sighed. "Distinctions between right and wrong are useless, afterall. What is right for one person, is wrong for another. It's just a fact of reality."

Kazuya hummed in agreement. "As soldiers, we have to decide what we think is moral, and then stick to that. Accepting the consequences for your actions and beliefs."

"... because you're nothing but a machine if you take that away…" I whispered, just loud enough for Kazuya to hear. "A machine that's only really good for killing…"

"Is that something you can't accept?" Asked Kazuya, casting a sidelong glance at me.

"Murder is murder. It will always be wrong, no matter what," I said with a sad smile, my voice sounding slightly muted. "But compromises have to be made. You can't save everyone, not even yourself sometimes."

"Rather macabre, but I find it depressingly realistic."

"Thank you. I tend to love that part of my personality, myself."

We shared a chuckle, the alcohol doing its job and making us relax.

"But you know…" Kazuya tilted the glass of whiskey and took another sip. "Compromises are the hardest part of making decisions.

"Is that so? I think I understand." I looked down at my own drink, at the distorted and bubbling reflection that was staring back at me. "Is it because you don't know where to draw the line? When do you know that those compromises are too much to bear?"

"I don't know. I doubt I'll ever know, or be satisfied with my answer." The former special ops soldier finished the remnants of his whiskey, and slid the glass onto the countertop, the ball of ice jingling within the confines of the container. It was deftly picked up by the bartender, who raised a brow at Kazuya. Kazuya shooks his head, declining the refill. The older man looked at me. "Have you ever found an answer?"

"Sort of. Kinda realized in high school, I guess." I shrugged and slouched over. "As long as my compromise doesn't harm those I care about, I can stomach anything. Even if it makes me an evil person; or a villain; or a murderer; or even dead."

Kazuya had no response, and I'm just content to sip my drink.

"Hikigaya-kun, there you are." Yukinoshita turned up, a concerned look on her face. "I was looking all over for you, Nee-san said that she had seen you with some of the elder male guests beforeh— what's that in your hand?" Her eyes grew thin and I'm pinned by a gaze full of killing intent.

"Uhhh… rum and cola." I looked down at my drink nervously.

"Hikigaya-kun, I explained this to you yesterday." Her voice became scarier with every syllable. "Wine would be served with dinner. I explicitly remember telling you to drink in moderation and to only drink champagne."

"I-I just had one sip!" I sputtered, trying to fight the urge to raise my hands. "I swear!"

"Is that so?" She looked like she didn't believe me in the slightest. Yukinoshita's eyes finally noticed Kazuya, and quickly bowed her head. "Oh, I apologize for interrupting, my name is Yukinoshita Yukino. I hope you are enjoying yourself."

Kazuya shakes his head with an amused smile. "It's perfectly fine, Yukinoshita-san. We were just finishing up our conversation anyway. I'll take my leave, good evening."

The Yakuza man I couldn't help but respect traded subtle nods with me as he disappeared into the crowds.

"Who was that?" Asked Yukinoshita curiously, folding her arms.

"A bureaucrat apprentice of one of your father's associates."

"I see…"

"He also owned a laundromat in Shinjuku. Former JSDF soldier, special forces."

"... and how exactly do you know this? And you went to Shinjuku?"

"Ok, before your mind goes into the gutter: I was investigating a money laundering trail in Shinjuku. Not having fun in the soaplands." [5]

"Quite the immediate response." Her eyes narrowed in suspicion. "One would almost think it's an admission of guilt."

I tossed her a tired look. "Get real."

Yukinoshita shook her head. "Come, Mother informed me that dinner will be served soon, we should sit down."

I take a deep breath. "Alright, let's get this over with. Since you're all hell-bent on ruining my night. I'll be the sacrificial lamb to enter this lions' den."

"Honestly, you're so dramatic."

Yukinoshita took the drink filled glass from my hand and returned it to the bartender. She guided me to the table, and then to my seat. Her father looked ecstatic that I was dining with them.

And by 'them' I also mean Hayama's parents that also sat with us.

Yukinoshita was to my left, and Hayama's mother to my right. Fujiko-san was like a child, asking me many questions.

"What is your day like?"

"Do you listen to jazz?"

"Do you chase after criminals? How fast can they run?"

"What are investigations like?"

"Do you argue with your partner? Ooh, do you have a partner?

"Do you chalk the outlines of bodies? Why do that?"

"How do you get samples for testing? Is it really that simple? You only need to stick it in a tube?"

"Do you really get only 24 hours to solve a case?" [6]

I sighed as I realized that this was going to be a very long night. Yukinoshita just laughed at my expense.

Arc 1: "Detective Hikigaya Hachiman"

Reference List:

[1] Kenneth Waltz was a political scientist who believed that more nuclear weapons being proliferated would deter countries from going to war with one another out of the fear of mutually assured destruction.

[2] Scott Sagan was also a political scientist who had a stance on nuclear proliferation. He believed that more nuclear WMDs would only discourage large scale wars, but still lead to conflict (like Pakistan and India in the Kashmir conflict in 1947) and eventual world instability should they fall into the hands of undesirable actors.

[3] JoJo reference. If I have to explain this, then you're beyond saving. Uncultured swine.

[4] The protagonist of the show "Code Geass" had an ability, Geass, that allowed him to give one command that a person must follow no matter what.

[5] Soaplands are backstreet businesses, a bath operation that offers a wide range of services. From full body (and I mean FULL) massages to outright prostitution. Fun fact: these used to be known as "Turkish Baths" until the Turkish Ambassador filed a formal complaint and forced these pleasure dens to change their names.

[6] Reference to the American television thriller "24." Where the protagonist Jack Bauer only has 24 hours to stop terrorism plots against America.

Author's Note:

Hello again everyone. Whew, I managed to finish this while moving job locations. I hope you all enjoyed this chapter. You'll have to excuse the heavy handedness with Kazuya, just trying to give him some characterization and empathetic link with Hachiman before the end of the Arc. Speaking of, we have one more chapter left. The next one might take a bit, considering I have to deal with birthdays, strange hours at work, and midterms. Thanks to yahallo and thatguy8801 for editing on such short notice. They're the ones you guys should thank for these fast updates. Please check out their works!

-SouBU

(Editors: Xynovitch, thatguy8801, yahallo)

Revision Log:
10/26/2020 - Various grammar fixes