Logic Is My Sword

by Itherael

It's often said that one person's insanity is another person's reality, and believing such was improbable. But if you were to reach a junction where self-delusion and insanity are the only choices left to take, what else can you be expected to do? Simple, defy the irrational world by choosing the path of logic, for I refuse to compromise my principles for the sake of convenience.

13. First Steps

There isn't much to be said other than after so much time, finally, a new update has come. For those still interested, welcome.

As mentioned in the Recap chapter, I would suggest to re-read the whole story since there has been a revamp of sorts. By this I mean, many scenes and elements have been rewritten and changed, and there's also new scenes and interactions.

These changes are more notable in the first chapters. I'm aware that re-reading this massive story can be a chore, so in case you'd rather not, you can read the recap instead. Just know, it's basically less than SparksNotes.

Whatever the case, be sure to open a tab to my deviantArt account: "MakerOfSouls", and enter my gallery, where the pics are separated in folders for each chapter. For the song list, open my profile, in there you'll find the profile of this story, where you can find the links to the songs I recommended for the current chapter.

With that all out of the way, enjoy.

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Logic is My Sword

Chapter 10 – At Long Last, Hikigaya Hachiman Takes his First Steps to Understand…

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10-1

After I sent the message accepting Yukihira's proposal, I walked back to my classroom in silence. The spectral form of my Shadow followed me. Well, calling him a shadow was inaccurate seeing as how he was now corporeal but I'll keep that moniker around just for the sake of convenience.

Labeling him as a Reflection implies that he's like me, but that's far from the truth, despite his tendency to claim otherwise.

Tch, if you're going to follow me, can you at least float around instead of walking behind me every time I glance back? You're not fooling anyone, I know you have to teleport in order for our distance to appear to be the same because our strides are different. You shitty ghost reject, you were better off sticking to reflective surfaces.

I also made a note not to give my extra any more attention once I start nearing my homeroom. Obviously, nobody else is going to be able to see him and the last thing I need is for people to question my sanity for staring off at what looks to be nothing. Of course, I'm not going to talk to him either. While he might be an actual voice in my head, I don't have that one mental disorder!

I pause outside of the classroom. The door was still open so I made sure to keep myself hidden from anybody inside so I could recollect myself in peace. Luckily for me, it seems my 'companion' is fine with basking in the silence as well.

Seriously, if we're done, can you go away?

I sigh to myself and walk inside, only to be greeted by Onizuka-sensei.

"Hikigaya? Are you done… with that little assignment of yours?" He gazes at me with a knowing smile, and I sigh, knowing well what his undertone implied.

Saying it like that can create so many misunderstandings given my popularity, you know? The last thing I need is everyone thinking I was up to something shady.

"Yeah…" I answered the eccentric substitute teacher, choosing to just remain unmoved.

At least he had a bit more tact when he was professional, I honestly expected him to mention that girl I was with. With that idle thought, I turned to face the class so I could make my way to my desk, but a certain mark appeared to float above another one of my classmates that overtook my entire focus.

This time it was Kawasaki Saki, who was the newest potential culprit. Ol' Black Lace was the third potential creation in my class, and seventh I found in total. When the girl in question noticed my stare on her, she subtly waved a hand in greeting. Before the usual pain overtook my senses, I made sure to nod back at the girl to at least appear casual before…

Tch…

I grit my teeth as the ever familiar headache arrives once I locate another suspect, subsequently rampaging in my head. To my luck, I managed to not stumble, but I still temporarily paused in order to stay stable. I couldn't help my instinctive need to clench my eyes shut from the pain, so my discomfort was still plenty noticeable. I can only be glad that I kept myself from audibly giving away just how painful this actually felt.

I already know I stood out, so I didn't want to further exacerbate the situation by getting sent to the nurse's office.

"Oi, Hikigaya. You okay?" The substitute teacher asks.

"It's nothing," I release a breath with a rub to my temple.

Relaxing my body takes a moment as the pain slowly dies down. Opening my eyes, I notice that I'm at the center of attention again. As a former loner, it was still an unwelcome sight, but I managed to ignore the unwanted scrutiny. I do note the worried gazes I gathered from particular classmates.

Miura was the most overtly concerned about me. Hell, she looked just about ready to rush up to me to see if I was fine. Please don't actually do that. Kawasaki also seemed troubled, which isn't unexpected since I had my brief episode the moment I looked at her. Don't worry Kawa-something-san, I had someone throw up at the sight of me!

The unexpected set of eyes that also showcased concern, although it was laced with hesitation, were the ones belonging to this world's Yuigahama. No, I have to stop doing that. She's Yuigahama, if I continue to specify her as if someone else, I'll continue to compare her to the one I knew. And doing that will make me bitter and unconsciously treat her less than ideally. That goes with Yukinoshita and Isshiki as well for any future interactions.

Besides, it's unfair to them considering that I've apparently spared Miura or Kawasaki from that treatment. And that I never had the intent of doing that to Komachi.

The previous relationships with the women I knew no longer matter in this reality. And it isn't their counterparts' fault that things are different, so I shouldn't burden them with the baggage I carry.

With one last shake of my head, I sit on my desk without any further issue. With my seating arrangement leaving me closer to the center of the classroom rather than next to the wall, I choose to close my eyes while leaning on my hand as a universal signal to be left alone. Luckily for me, most of the prying stares took the hint, but a few obvious ones lingered a bit longer.

[You have to steel through the pain, stop being such a pathetic wimp. Besides, you brought that man here, and your connection with him has already put you in the spotlight again… While I'm sure Onizuka will be of great use to us, for now we must focus on reducing the attention you have gathered. Sobu's staff is wary of us again.]

I glance out the corner of my eye, spotting my shadow leaning over the window in the front of the class. I had to wonder if he could actually touch any object, or if this was just his aesthetics. I had yet to see him going through a wall or any object even though he's clearing teleporting around… Just what the hell is he?

[You're wasting your time thinking such nonsense about me. Focus on the game, I mean, even if it's not the one you knew, now you have that chick Yuigahama starting to show concern for you. This might be your chance to tear her away from the fucking riajuu. Heh, I'm interested in how you'll approach her.]

Obviously, I'm not going to talk to him. He can read my mind, but I also shouldn't use that right now. I need to at least pay some attention to what's going on in class. Onizuka-sensei seems to like me so he'll regularly check in on me, especially after that scene I caused. What a good guy…

Plus, other teachers are still trying to pick on me after Monday's debacle. I can only be glad that I remembered my classes' October material well enough to answer their trick questions accurately. But I'm really cutting it close with my Math and Science classes, I pause a little too long to gather answers for a supposed top student.

It sure seems to be a pain in being smart(lol).

Back to Yuigahama, I do have an opening right now since she's seen me endure pain twice now. I'm still not sure what she thought of our conversation the other day, but I at least have garnered some interest from her instead of avoidance. Might be a pity thing, but I can work with it a lot better than fear.

I don't like it any less no matter how much I say it. I already feel a certain guilt for the other confirmed targets, but Yuigahama hits closer to home because her 'Prime self' is someone I truly care about. The thought of her life being on the line, even if it's a counterpart, bothers me a great deal.

I know I refused to kill the creation, but Ayanokouji was still going through with the game properly. And I can't just let my defiance to the Time God blow up in my face after he wins and I have my memories wiped, that'd be soooo embarrassing!

But still, I have to wonder why Yukinoshita wasn't made a suspect…

I know I should be glad she isn't but I can't help but think I'm being mocked here. The girl who asked me to save her someday wasn't deemed important enough for Deus Ex to choose. How am I supposed to take that?

Hah…

10-2

The bell signaling the start of our lunch break arrives.

Well, I was able to avoid further trouble in homeroom and noticed less attention being paid to me by the other teachers after Onizuka-sensei. Either my body language to be left alone was enhanced by my bad reputation or my nosy substitute teacher said something which unintentionally came off as intimidation. Whatever it was, it left me in relative peace until lunch started.

Ah, that's right, I have to see that Light Magician Girl's show, don't I?

"Hikio?"

I turn my attention to the typical usual user of that odd nickname.

"Yo," I gave a casual wave with my offhand as I lamely greeted the Fire Queen.

"Are you, like, okay? It looked like your head was seriously hurting, or something," I expected her to be concerned, but the earnest light in her eyes still makes me feel uncomfortable.

"Ah, yeah. I didn't sleep that well last night, so it's probably from that," Not a complete lie, I might need less rest, but I still only slept a handful of hours because of Kasumigaoka (Utaha, don't forget that, dammit).

"Ain't that kinda serious…?" She frowned at me while putting her hands to her hips, "Hikio, you should really, like, take care of yourself better, y'know?"

Well, it was honestly out of my control.

My lip quirks up in slight amusement anyway, "Yeah, I'll try."

So this is Miura's maternal side, what a funny experience…

"Hey, this ain't because you were out in the rain yesterday, is it?" She narrows her gaze, "I fell asleep studying yesterday and forgot to call you. You got home fine, right?"

Ah, crap… I dodged the bullet of my mother's maternal nagging just to run smack dab into the Fire Queen's… And to make things worse, I spent the night with Kasumig… er, Utaha… The one woman that Miura hates.

Did… did the RomCom Gods put me in an NTR situation…?

Realizing I was moments away from shellshock at this discovery, I quickly answered my blonde classmate.

"Ah, the rain was pretty rough so I had to spend the night with Ut-Usui."

Damn you, brain! How could you almost screw me over just now!?

"Huh? Utusui? Who's that?"

Apologies, Pretty Boy, for butchering your name so horribly.

"Er, Usui is what I meant to say," I say sheepishly.

"Ah, that teasing guy?" She blinked, "So you stayed with him?"

I nod, "Yeah, his place was closest."

"So… like, everything is fine now… right?"

"Sort of," I rub the back of my head knowing I should say something about my plans, "I might be getting dragged into something again soon…"

"Mou… What now?" She cutely puffs her cheeks. Gah… This isn't good for my heart… "You're always, like, totes into so many things…"

"I'm a busy guy," I huff in a joking manner. "Besides, it's mostly not my fau—"

"Hikigaya Hachiman," We both turned towards the opened door of the class, a bespectacled man standing solemnly just inside the class. I can recall he was one of the two that took me to Kouchou-sensei last time. "Headmaster Sakurai has summoned you to her office."

Murmurs spread through my class as I sent Miura a wry look as if to prove my point.

She rolls her eyes, "Fine… I wanted to eat lunch with you an—"

"You too, Kawasaki Saki. Don't keep the headmaster waiting."

"I know, I know…" She releases a sigh before standing up, glancing at me from the corner of her eyes for a brief moment before heading out of class.

Both of us? I'm sure Yukihira made good on his school getting in touch with mine, but what was up with Kawasaki? I'm too used to this world to think it was a coincidence, the previous Sobu never even busted her for smoking and I doubt this one would.

But does it mean she was called for the same reason as me?

"Her too!? What happened now?" My blonde companion yelps in surprise.

"It's probably nothing to worry about with her being brought along," I attempt to calm the Fire Queen, "It's usually me who's the troublemaker, remember?"

"Mou… you always make me worry…"

And as I'm about to respond, the teacher speaks louder this time, "Hikigaya, stop messing around!"

I only roll my eyes with a sigh. Looks like it's one of the faculty members that doesn't like me. I made to stand up so I could head out before I remembered something.

Ah, I told Light Magician Girl that I was going to pass by to watch her magic tricks. Knowing my luck, I might miss it because of getting called to the principal's office. Great… The last thing I needed is the gnawing guilt for making the magician think I stood her up. And it's not like I could tell Miura to go see her in my stead. Without me there, she might just threaten the girl like how it happened to Sairenji a few days back.

Hah… It's not like I'd be able to ask anyone else for that either. Light Magician Girl-san, I'll be sure to apologize to you after school, I promise!

I gave Miura a nod and headed out the door, ignoring the teacher. I blink in surprise as I see Kawasaki leaning on the lockers as if waiting for me.

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Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 10 Section: Song 01

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"Yo," I lamely greeted the girl.

She opens her mouth but the teacher walks past us, "Hurry."

Kawasaki narrows her gaze and simply nods at me in acknowledgement before trailing behind the teacher. I decide to follow after them.

Eventually, we are walking side by side in silence. It's a bit awkward, but simply starting a conversation doesn't come naturally to me, and even if I forced myself to do it, I have no idea what to say. She's friends with Miura here instead of Ebina, and I don't know where I am. I've already met her little sister at least a month before I would in my world, and I'm not sure what that means.

I decide to give her a quick glance, and she does the same at the exact moment. Her matching eyes narrow, her cheeks reddening slightly.

"…What?" That's all she asks. Oh man, she's not mad now, is she?

Well, that's not much for a conversation starter but it's better than anything I might have chosen(lol).

Remember Hachiman, you're supposed to take things in an arrogantly confident stride.

"Just wondering what sort of trouble us stellar students could have caused," I flex my sarcastic wit, "I lasted all of one day of behaving apparently."

She stares at me for a couple of seconds before looking forward, "I guess…"

That's it? You're not even going to try to continue the conversation you started? I put in a lot of work to not sound awkward!

Great… I have to lead again.

I sigh at her lack of reaction, but still ask, "You doing alright, Saa-chan?"

Let's go the more teasing route? I'm playing with fire, but it got results the last time I accidentally did it.

She stops abruptly, and glares at me with a furious blush on her face, "I told you to stop that!"

The teacher also comes to a stop, and merely looks at us from over his shoulder. He doesn't need to say anything to convey what he was thinking… Yikes…

Kawasaki looks away and starts walking again in silence, refusing to look at me. Damn it, that might not have been the best approach after all. Well, no one said Hikigaya Hachiman was known for his social skills. Well, I don't think I registered in that many people's minds in the first place…

I sent the teacher, who had turned away, an annoyed look. You ignore us at your own leisure but react when she gets embarrassed about something. Nice priorities.

We eventually reached the headmaster's office, three other students already there, waiting by her door. One of them was younger, a girl, and the other two were male. I'm glad this girl is not a suspect. Actually, I haven't seen a suspect since I spotted Kawasaki's mark in the morning.

That's good since it's less people to worry about, but it brings back that doubt in my mind… What made those girls eligible and not this one? I can't wash the thought from my mind that there may be some specific reason why they are being chosen by that bastard god of time.

I'd say because they were part of the life of my previous self, but Tendou had a mark and she's from my tenure in this reality. And there's still Yukinoshita to think about, there should have been a connection with her if I already knew her sister.

And as expected, they are clearly afraid of me, slowly stepping away. The short girl glares at Kawasaki for a moment before looking away. Huh… What was that about?

I glance at Kawasaki, only to catch her looking at me with a frown, which deepens when she realizes it.

"…What?"

"That's my line," I fire back, "You're the one staring a hole through me."

"You're the one gettin' on my nerves," She growls, "You only mess with me every time. It's not funny."

Was it just the teasing? Good grief, I'm never going to tease girls as an ice breaker ever again. Not if I run the risk of dealing with their emotional baggage each time.

"My bad, I didn't mean anything by it," I sigh with a shrug, already tired. Who would have thought I'd rather be watching failed attempts at magic right now…?

She averts her gaze and sighs, "I heard 'bout some guys attacking you. How're you holding up?"

Me being attacked instead of me attacking them? Miura must have told her what happened that day. Although, it's been almost a whole week to finally check in, Kawa-something-san…

"No complaints," I say without a care, "I was sore for a few days though. Did Miura tell you?"

"She mentioned it," Kawasaki shrugs her shoulders. "Knew they were a bunch of assholes."

I raise an eyebrow at her curse, not expecting it.

"Meatheads will be meatheads," I say wryly, "But that's over and done with, what happens to them doesn't matter to me."

"Kay…" She scratches her cheek, "What about the new homeroom teacher, that creepy guy… a friend of yours or something?" She blinks, "Ah, maybe Harima's?"

What the hell? How does she know him? Kawasaki might have a delinquent demeanor, but Harima was the real thing. I don't ask at the risk of coming off as suspicious if I was supposed to know about that.

"He knows him through reputation," I say, "And I… was responsible for getting Onizuka-sensei hired."

She cocks an eyebrow, "Say what?"

I hesitate to say the full truth with an audience here, so I give the short version.

"Ah, well, he left before he could get hired so I had to go look for him," I told her, "Since I knew Harima, he helped me find Onizuka-sensei."

"Wait a minute, how'd you even get involved in all that stuff?" She looked at me in disbelief. "Oh wait, I forgot it's you we're talking about."

"Oi, don't say it like if I go out of my way to get dragged into things," I can't help but voice some annoyance.

"Maybe you're a masochist, who knows?"

"Who the hell's a masochist?" I mutter before continuing, "I, Hikigaya Hachiman, just want a quiet life."

"Whatever you say…"

I remain silent, not wanting to get into a verbal spar over something this pointless. Think what you want, woman. Regarding secondhand accounts of what I've been up as truths just amplifies your ignorant comment.

The door suddenly opened, the spectacled teacher staring at us, "Get inside all of you."

We all do so at his call, standing inside the headmaster's office. Sakurai-sensei sat solemnly by her desk. However, this was not what held my attention but the really tall, and bulky man standing behind her seat, looking out through the window. He sported a suit from what I could tell since his back was to us.

I don't know what it is, but his presence alone makes me a bit restless.

Then there comes silence… that is until the headmaster speaks, a smile painting her face much to my relief.

"Don't be tense. I assume most of you already know what I'm about to tell you," She glances at me for a second before continuing. "Yes, this is about the Totsuki Culinary Competition taking place in Tokyo. I'm sure you're all aware of its reputation."

Well, what I know about it is through word-of-mouth, really. If it wasn't for Yukihira, I'd have no idea it existed at all. But if it can actually excuse me from Sobu for a few days on short notice, that means it really is a big name school.

Hey, wait a minute… 'Short notice' was an understatement. I only accepted less than a few hours ago, was his school able to request for us at a snap of their finger?

"Yes, Kouchou-sensei," One of the boys responded respectfully, slightly nodding his head, "Are you going to issue us our permission to leave school for this event?"

The elderly woman nodded, "Of course, although they are being transcribed as we speak. I'll ask you to come again after classes to pick them up."

I raise an eyebrow, "Then why call us here now?" Oops, that might have been a bit blunt. Well, at least it's something expected of me.

[Indeed, you should thank your previous self for giving you the liberty to say whatever you want.]

I subtly glance at my left, spotting my other self leaning over a wall with a monotonous expression.

Liberty? Give me a break.

The woman chuckles slightly, her eyes deviating to the side as I focus on her once more, "Here they are as you had asked, Dojima-san. Who's the one you wanted to meet?"

The tall, muscular man finally turned around and it is then that I realized why he gave off some strange vibes. He's really intimidating! What the hell!? His eyes are as sharp as a blade's, and his posture exudes so much confidence…

The tension in the room rises exponentially, and even Kawasaki seems nervous. I can't blame her, this guy looks like he could punch walls as if it were nothing, not to mention the pressure his gaze alone emits. Even his eyebrows looked sharp somehow… or were they purposefully styled like that?

Whatever the case, it couldn't be me right? The person who he wanted to meet? I know my luck has been really stingy but, c'mon, give me a break!

"Which of you ¡s the friend of Yukihira Souma?" His strong, grave voice lets out an inquiry, which came out more like a demand.

Good grief, did that school send out a hitman just for me?

I keep the intimidation I felt from showing in my body language, thanking my Composed Hikki ability for leveling up since the last time it was used.

[You might wanna speak now.]

Tch, wasn't that obvious?

[You're taking too long.]

That teasing tone is the last thing I want to hear.

[Too bad for you…]

I decided to ignore him, speaking again.

"Who wants to know?"

Now, I know, what the heck am I doing? This guy exudes an intimidating aura that tells me he can crush me like a bug, so why am I blatantly antagonizing him? Well, to keep up appearances. At any other time I'd activate Stealth Hikki and try my best to escape the room while sacrificing my peers. But that's not the type of person Hikigaya Hachiman is supposed to be in this world, much to my misfortune.

His eyes quickly fall on me, my tension rising even more. C'mon Hachiman, it's not like he's gonna attack me… right? Just try to relax…

"So you're the one…" He then glances at the others, "The rest of you can leave."

That was an ominous way of making that request. Please stop.

While the others do so as fast as they can without being disrespectful, Kawasaki stands there, looking between me and the imposing man. What are you doing, woman? Failing to comply could result in potential death!

"It's fine," I tell her.

She blinked and pursed her lips before nodding to the headmaster. After that, she left the room without saying a word. I just don't get that girl, then again, I could say that for most of them.

The sound of the door being closed echoes in the office, only the elderly woman, this unknown man and myself inside…

Just great…

"What's your name, kid?" He suddenly asks, gathering my undivided attention.

"Hikigaya Hachiman from Class 2-F," I gave the man a slight bow, "Yukihira's my neighbor."

He scrutinizes me, folding his arms, "I knew it would be you from the rest, Hikigaya. Yukihira's immediate choice for this competition was you so I had to see the man in person before Totsuki's event. He said his friend was an excellent cook despite not taking any classes."

Geez, all that intimidation only to be seen in a good light? Talk about a flip in the script.

"I don't know what he told you, but I doubt I can compare to students in your school," I had to tell the guy the truth, I don't want him to have such high expectations just to be let down when I don't meet them.

He cocks an eyebrow, "Is that modesty, or perhaps self-awareness of your own limitations?"

"I just know what I can and can't do," I shrug, "Your students are formally trained."

"Interesting answer," He puts a hand on his jaw. "However, words are words, yours and his. I'll look forward to seeing you in action," With hands intertwined behind him, he adds with a sharper voice, "I hope you don't disappoint, Hikigaya Hachiman."

"I'm sure those aren't the only words you've heard about me," I can't help but point out, "Honestly, I'm surprised you're not here to bar me from going to your school."

"Those are the only ones I care about," He responds easily. "…for now. I'll trust Yukihira's judgment until proven otherwise."

In other words, they'll probably be keeping an eye on me to make sure I don't cause any trouble. Yukihira must be a top student if he's this well trusted.

[Heh…]

I force myself to not react to that, instead responding to the older man.

"I'll behave, but I can't promise anything when it comes to cooking," I return to the matter at hand, preferring to take a more neutral approach.

He chuckles, "Promises mean nothing to me. I value action over words," He steps back. "Sorry for taking more of your time. You must be hungry, I take it," He turns to the woman. "Sakurai-san, mind giving him five more minutes of lunch break?"

She nods her head, "I see no problem in doing that, as long as he gets to class when his five minutes end," The bespectacled woman turns to me. "Is that okay with you?"

Not only can they take me out from school, but he can even get me extra time to eat lunch? Who the heck is this guy?

"That's fine," I nod at Sakurai-sensei.

The man extends a hand at me with a confident smile, "I'm Dojima Gin, General Head Chef of the Totsuki Resort located in Tokyo. It's a pleasure."

Is Totsuki Resort the tourist trap connected to the school, or is it where the students board? He's a representative of the school, so there has to be some sort of connection, right? Or maybe he's introducing himself to me as a chef rather than a faculty member, out of respect?

I glance at my side to not find my alternate self. I quickly scanned around and the bastard was gone. Geez, the time where you would be useful is the time you decide to disappear. Whatever…

"Uh, yeah," I briefly hesitated before extending my own hand.

My gaze narrows as I notice the firm grip of his hand on mine. His piercing eyes analyze me intensely. It's almost like a silent staring contest, and so far I could tell that I was losing under the weight of his intense stare.

But I refused to yield, fully aware that he was testing me in some way. And so I kept my gaze steady, not flinching until he eventually let go of my hand.

I glanced at my slightly trembling hand before bailing a fist to hide my inner agitation.

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Go to profile, SEE: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 10 Section: Picture 01

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Dojima smirked, although his eyes still held onto that intimidating sharpness.

"You can be on your way then. I'll see you again at the Academy."

"Be sure to come by after classes," Sakurai-sensei adds.

"Will do," I massage the back of my neck, "And about that event, I'll do what I can."

"I'll look forward to it."

I blink twice, barely catching on his words. Well, it seems that this imposing man seemed pleased at my response, so I come to relax as I figure I'm being excused. The sooner the better, this guy had me on edge from his intensity alone.

Sakurai-sensei motions her head towards the bespectacled teacher standing by the door, who opens it.

"Thanks," I grunt out before exiting the room. I released a breath once the door closed behind me, glad that I came out fine.

"Hey," I blink at the familiar voice coming from my left. My eyes drift to find Kawasaki standing in the hallway. Huh… she waited for me, or am I reading this wrong?

"Huh?" I voiced my confusion, "You didn't leave?"

The silverhead massages the back of her neck, "Yeah…" A sudden glare cleaves my face, "Got a problem with that?"

Wait, what did I do?

"Well, it's up to you how you spend your time…" I murmur.

"I-I know," She shrugs her shoulders. "Just don't make a big deal out of it."

You're the one who got confrontational about it… I don't even know why you stuck around.

"Right…" I mutter with a glance at the clock, that meeting took over twenty minutes. There's still time to eat, but there's no way I can meet up with that magician too. I'd have to give up one for the other.

Hah… Why do I have to be such a great guy…? Maybe losing my appetite watching that girl throw up again can carry me throughout the rest of the day until after class?

I turned to head towards the special building, so I could make good on my one-sided promise, only to pause once I noticed a pair of footsteps following right behind me. I slowly glance back to see a certain Black Lace looking back at me without a care.

Why was she still here…?

"Do… you need something?" I ask slowly, my bewilderment being voiced clearly.

"Can I tag along?" She pockets her hands in her blazer, "Haven't eaten yet."

Wait, wait, wait. I haven't eaten either, but it's not like it requires two people, does it? Or was that just me as a loner? Could it be that I actually did something amazing by being able to eat lunch by myself all these years!?

Knowing that saying anything except yes would yield me trouble, I nod slowly.

"That's fine, but…" I rub the back of my head, "I'm actually going to pick something up first."

A lie, obviously. I don't want to be judged as a casanova again if I said I was going to see the Light Magician Girl.

"Fine by me," She nods her head.

I actually meant that as an excuse to go on my own, hoping she'd say she'd wait as I did my business. Hey, hey, I know you're also a former loner, Kawa-something-san, but can't you adopt my ability of reading between the lines?

I release a sigh, accepting my fate and continue on towards that magician's clubroom.

10-3

The room was… empty. There was no sign of the magician anywhere.

Tch… and she was the one telling me to come back… Although, maybe she thought I wasn't going to come given that there are only twelve minutes left of lunch break, seventeen for me. Well, I wouldn't blame her either. Or maybe she realized who I was in Sobu and got scared in the end.

Geez… she's a suspect and she might already be afraid of me.

"Here's the thing you wanted to pick up?"

My eyes scan the room once more, "Not anymore, I guess. Let's just go eat then."

"Kay."

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 10 Section: Song 02

---

After we leave and I close the door of the apparent chemistry lab converted into a club room, I spot our homeroom teacher coming down the stairs from the rooftop. He raises a hand in greeting and grins at me.

"Hey, Hikigaya. Come to visit your girlfriend again…?" He blinks, his eyes directed at Kawasaki. His attention immediately returns to me, "Goh! Another one, Hikigaya? You're really good at this! You're insatiable!"

"Don't start up baseless rumors about your students, Sensei," I say with a dry tone, giving up on not being the tsukkomi of our comedy duo, "People might actually believe you."

I feel a punch land on my arm, and I glare over my shoulder, Kawasaki looking less than pleased "Another one!? So the rumors are true?"

"There's no one," I growl back, rubbing my arm, "I'd think you would be the last person to give rumors any credibility."

Kawasaki furrows her brows, "What's that supposed to mean? You implyin' something?"

"C'mon, kids. There's no need for a lover's quarrel," Onizuka-sensei interjects.

You're not helping, dammit!

"It's nothing like that," I tell the man, before addressing the both of them, "I'm not dating anyone, and I'm not interested in it either."

Onizuka laughs and scratches the back of his head in amusement, "Yeah, yeah. I mean, she left that room some minutes ago with some guy, so I guess someone got to her first. Too bad for you, Hikigaya."

A guy? That girl basically admitted that her club only consisted of herself earlier, and I took her for someone that was regularly on her own based on her demeanor. So her being in a relationship throws my impression of her off completely. But, well, just because Onizuka-sensei is alluding that the boy she was with was her boyfriend doesn't mean that's the case.

Also, her being in a relationship would set me back with trying to figure out if she was the created being to protect.

"Yeah…" I muttered as I pondered to myself, "Too bad…"

A grunt escapes Kawasaki's lips, "You actually sound disappointed…"

In a cosmic sort of way, yes.

"It's not that," I shake my head, wondering why I bother to keep explaining myself. Ah, that stupid game of course… figures… "I just don't like that I pointlessly lost time coming here."

"I was about to grab something to eat before lunch time ended," Onizuka comments easily, walking past us. "See ya kiddos."

"Actually…" He stops, glancing over his shoulder at my classmate, "We also wanted to grab something to eat."

"That so?" He sends us a thumbs up, "Let's go then!"

Hah? I have a bento in my schoolbag, thank you very much! I just needed my usual spot to eat in peace, so why am I being included in this adventure? You including me is just keeping me from getting back to class to get my food. Also, I thought you didn't particularly like our new teacher, Kawa-something-san, so why are you eager to get to know him? You're not at all like the standoffish wannabe delinquent I knew you as!

Alas, I wasted enough time as it was so I went along with it for the sake of not wasting anymore of it. I'd like to get to class to pick up my bento, but I'm sure Onizuka-sensei's going to drag me to the cafeteria either way. I'll have to save it for later.

"Yeah, yeah…" I deflate at the man's thunderous enthusiasm.

Kawasaki is the first to move after him until she inevitably stops to look at me in expectation. I release a sigh before taking a step forward.

10-4

The ring marks the end of classes…

Finally.

[Finally.]

Oh great, we synchronized.

I sigh to myself as I start to get my things in order, having the extra five minutes of lunch proved to be the only time for any peace of mind. Hah… It wasn't enough, dammit.

And I don't even get to head straight home after this, I have to pass by the office again before heading off to Usui's school to meet up with him for a short while. Then after that, I have to deal with everything at home for staying out for so long. And I just know Deviluke is going to whine and complain about me staying away for three days.

Suddenly, I don't feel like going home anymore…

I stop when a shadow overlaps my vision, which of course belonged to a displeased-looking Miura-tan! Well, as I expected, she wasn't happy when I told her I'd be going to Tokyo for three days.

"Hikio…" Her undertone was somewhat scary…

"…What is it?" I reluctantly ask the woman.

"I just noticed the worst thing about your trip…" Her voice now lacked any and all emotion! Scary!

"And what could that possibly be?" I ask casually, trying my damndest not to sweat bullets.

She slightly lowers her head, "Our study sessions…"

Ah, crap… I forgot about those. I had so many things on the backburner before Yukihira dragged me into his competition. Damn, that means I might have to cancel my outing with Tendou. That's on a Saturday and Yukihira's stuff ends on the same day. Better a reschedule than no-showing and damaging my image with the gamer girl.

I'll do that once I'm alone though.

[I still have no idea how you put up with her ridiculous shit… Oh right, the game… heh.]

Tch, the attention is overwhelming at times, but she isn't the worst I've had to deal with.

"Oh, yeah, sorry but I won't be able to go after all," I scratch my cheek and decide to retreat, "Ah, I have to pass by the office again, so…"

"Mou… Hikio, it's like you're avoid—"

I feel someone grabbing my arm and forcefully pulling me up. I stumble for a moment, almost crashing into another desk and Kawasaki drags me out of class. I barely managed to get a hold of my school bag before she did.

"What the hell are you doing, Kawasaki!?" I hear Miura calling out in irritation.

Only when outside of class does Kawasaki let go of me and turn to Miura, who obviously followed after us. I've got a bad feeling about this…

"He told you already, we have to go to get our permission slips," Kawasaki retorted blandly.

Miura pursed her lips in response, "I know, but I was, like, totally talking to him."

"More like scaring the shit out of him…" She muttered, looking away from the blonde, "You said yesterday that you guys weren't going out, yeah? Stop acting like you're his girlfriend."

Moshi, moshi? Hikigaya, desu? Stop pretending I'm not here when one of you is a step away from shoving me out the door.

"Hah? What did you just say?" Fire Queen mode was activated… geez… "Aren't you the one, like, hogging him now?"

"Yeah, yeah. I'm not an attention seeker like you, besides, it's about our permissions. You're taking it too personally," Kawasaki rolls her eyes, "Chill out, would ya?"

I release a sigh, resting a hand on her shoulder, however, instead of calming her down, Miura turned to glare daggers at me before blinking in realization. She looked away in irritation, hands rested on her hips.

"Fine…" Her green eyes moved to the corner, warily spying on me, "I sorta overreacted."

Kawasaki releases a deep breath, "And I guess I shouldn't have interrupted you two like… that…" She scratches her cheeks. "I guess…"

Like what, woman? We were talking, there were no shoujo roses floating around. My dead fish eyes would have made them immediately wilt.

Hah… What good friends you two must be, but you're going to stretch the fabric of my blazer if you start gripping it like that, Kawa-something-san. Please have mercy on my clothing.

"Honestly, of all things to argue about…" I interject on the stifling silence between them, "Is that how fragile it is between you two?"

Antagonizing their ties to remind them of what they have is a good plan, although I run the risk of getting yelled at now. Come on, nat twenty!

"My bad…" Surprisingly, Kawasaki was the first to say, "Kinda felt ignored the past few days since you two got all lovey-dovey…"

Hah! Wait. Woman, what are you talking about?

Miura stares at her and sighs, but a smile pops up on her face, "I thought you were, like, avoiding me."

"A bit… I guess…" The silverhead grimaces, "Let's just forget about it," Her focus falls on me suddenly, "Since this guy started acting out of character lately, things around school have been weird, you know?"

That was inevitable, everyone's noticed how differently I'm acting in Sobu in particular.

"I wouldn't call them weird," Miura winks at me. "I'd say things are, like, totes changing for the better."

"Hmm…" Kawasaki grunts, "Stop flirting in front of me."

"Oi, I didn't do anything," I voice my exasperation, "Why're you including me?"

The blonde punches my arm playfully, "Mou… Hikio. You're no fun at all."

"Huh? What are you talking about?" I mimic a certain Part 2 protagonist's pose, "I'm the most fun person I'll ever meet."

Miura giggles, and Kawasaki cocks an eyebrow in amusement.

"Well, since you two had that thing going on, I'll go see Meguri. She's been overloaded with stuff lately. Dunno what's going on now, but…" The blonde becomes thoughtful, but then shrugs her shoulders, "Anyway, I'll help her out."

Kawasaki nods, "Sure. Say hi to her from my side."

"You should quit bein' a stranger," Miura retorts. "But just this time, I will."

"Later," I raise a hand in farewell.

After Miura leaves, my present company and I set off towards Kouchou-sensei's office to pick up our permissions.

10-5

Getting our permission slips was uneventful compared to earlier. We each got our envelopes with fancy seals to boot, way to make a guy feel special, eh? I make sure to keep it safely stored in my bookbag.

Currently, Kawasaki and I are heading out of the office. Although, I was going to have to separate from the girl soon enough. I had to go see if that klutzy magician was in her club now so I could apologize for no-showing and possibly hurting her feelings. Then once that was done, I needed to get in touch with Usui so I could make a quick stop by his school before heading home.

"I need to pass by the special building again to do something else before I leave, so I'll see you later." I notified my companion of my intent so she didn't have to wait up for me.

She frowns, "Ditching me already?"

"What?" I look in bewilderment, "It's not that. I actually have a few errands to run after I'm done on campus anyway."

She sighs, putting a hand on her elbow, "Just tell me you want to go see Miura."

"Woman, at what point did you get the idea I was going to see her?" Honestly, she's so quick to bring up Miura as if she were a jealous girlfriend or something. Just kidding.

"Then I can come with you, right? Unless you're hiding something."

How paranoid can you get?

"Good grief, I was trying to be considerate of your time," I rolled my eyes as I turned to head to the special building, "Do what you want."

"I will."

I sigh to myself as I start my trek, now I have another strong-willed woman to cause me a headache in this school. Oh joy…

The lack of hesitation in Kawasaki's steps as she follows me pisses me off a little bit. I just didn't like this sense of entitlement she had with keeping me company. But I'd rather deal with this annoyance than the trouble of her being mad.

Just please, let me enjoy the walk in silence…

"Say… is this about that girl Onizuka-sensei mentioned?" I hear her ask suddenly, but I don't bother to stop on my tracks.

Ugh… You're an insult to loners everywhere.

"Partly," I say cryptically, "I have to pick up something from Onizuka-sensei's room there too."

"Okay…" And after a minute, "I'm kinda surprised that you'll go to the Totsuki event. Didn't think you'd bother with it."

"Yukihira can be annoying when it comes to that, and he'd be worse if I didn't go," I tell the girl, obviously not mentioning the real reason I'm going, "Although the same could be said about you."

"Hah? What was that?" Her eyes narrow dangerously.

Huh? Oh, crap. Excuse me? Subconscious self? Could you please refrain from subconsciously expressing my annoyance with the girl so I can avoid death? Thank you.

"I meant about you going," I backtrack, "I didn't expect you'd go either."

"Well, a friend asked me, so I guess we're on the same boat. Kinda forgot you were friends with that guy. Never had the chance to eat in his restaurant."

You and me both.

"Well, I'll see if he can save you something," I offer, "If you want."

I notice her steps fading, so I look behind me, her eyes widened in apparent surprise. Eventually, she nods her head, "Ah… yeah sure… thanks…"

Not knowing how to take her reaction, I simply nod back at her, "It's nothing."

After that we continued our trek. It didn't take us long to arrive at the corridor where Onizuka-sensei's room and the magician's club room were located. It is there that I notice a male student heading our way. He was roughly the same height as me.

It was strange but I felt something off about him the moment we crossed paths. He was smiling for some reason, and his eyes were hidden under his bangs. He was smug about something, I could tell by the way he walked with his hands in his pockets.

Also, he disregarded me which is something that doesn't happen often anymore.

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 10 Section: Song 03

---

I sensed Kawasaki stopping again, and I had the urge to turn around completely, sensing something was going on. I blink twice as I notice Kawasaki glaring daggers at the unknown boy, who just stood before her.

"What do you want?" She asked rather aggressively.

The boy released a chuckle, "Nothing… For now."

Her glare intensified, "Don't even think about it, asshole. I'll make you regret trying anything!"

He released another chuckle, clearly not intimidated, which was something worthy of consideration. Who is this guy?

"We'll see about that," He said easily, finally walking away.

"…" The silence is stifling as Kawasaki fumes to herself, continuing to glare daggers into the boy's retreating form.

"Kids these days," I try to lighten the mood with my dry wit, "They used to be able to understand when they were being rejected and cry into their pillows afterwards."

However, my joke isn't received quite well..

"Can't believe that fucking asshole…" She mutters darkly, "You know…" She releases a sigh, "I think I'll be heading home. I'll get more annoyed if I stick around here."

That guy really got under her skin. Was this a regular thing for her and other guys or was it because of him? Well, I guess jerks are a common theme in this Sobu if they're willing to gang up on lil' ol' me. Kouchou-sensei mentioned the rising amount of delinquency too, I just didn't come across it often for it to register for me.

Seeing as I had no words of comfort for her, I merely nodded, "That's fine. Careful on your way back."

"I will…" She turns around and looks at me over her shoulder, "Sorry about that."

"Don't apologize for something that isn't your fault, woman," I rebuke her instead, "That idiot started it."

"Yeah…" She looks away, "You have my number already, so… feel free to call me if something comes up… Laters…"

And with that, she walks away.

I kinda expected some guys like this in Sobu, given all I've learned in the passing days but this left me with a bad taste in my mouth.

That guy though… he obviously came from a room on this floor. And seeing how he acted with Kawasaki, I don't think he was more tactful with the only other girl that could be found in this area. So was that him? The guy Onizuka-sensei was talking about?

If it was…

I hurried to the Magic Club as concern washed over me. Concern for what, I didn't know, I just felt an overwhelming sense of worry hit me. I reach the door with the childish sign on it, and intend to open it without knocking, but I'm beaten to the punch.

I blink in surprise as the magician girl stares at me in surprise, clearly not expecting my visit.

"T-the guy from before…" She whispers, as if to herself.

I don't respond, preferring to set my gaze on her and look her over. There was nothing out of the ordinary, which relieved me a lot more than I was willing to admit. The tension in my body relaxed, so I decided to at least greet the girl.

"Yo."

"H-how long you've b-been here!?" She shouts, becoming red.

I almost flinch at her loud volume, "I just got here."

She drops her gaze, biting her lip, "I-I see…" She closes the door behind her, now refusing to look at me. "I-I need to go."

I wasn't sure what to think of her odd behavior, "What about your club?"

She waves her hands frantically, "Ah! T-t-there's s-something I have t-to do." She steps back, looking away. "It'll… have to be f-for… another day…" She becomes silent for a moment when she suddenly says, "S-see ya!"

And with that, the girl runs away, not giving me a chance to respond. Maybe I was too hasty with my relief.

My gaze lands on the closed door of her magic club as I unconsciously clench my fists.

After all… Not all wounds are visible.

10-6

After retrieving the archaic umbrella from Onizuka-sensei's room, I left the building in a sullen mood after that incident. I didn't know what happened with that girl, but I know it couldn't be good. The few pieces of that puzzle that I got were enough for me to at least suspect something appalling was happening behind closed doors.

That guy's self-satisfied body language, her panic and desperate need to run away. Not to mention, an overwhelming sense of shame in her eyes as she hid whatever was ailing her. Even someone as pessimistic as me doesn't want to assume the worst. But what else was there to think? The two of them are engaged in a twisted relationship of some kind.

Extortion?

Possibly, the guilt she displayed indicates a lack of willingness from her side. But what could a mere high school student hold over someone, or anyone for that matter, to warrant that sort of compliance?

I release a sigh.

I'm not sure what to do with this information, reporting it seems obvious, but if that guy is willing to be so blatant with his actions, it might imply that he'd be able to get away with it. Besides, I don't know the guy, and if I just bring up that magician, chances are that she'd remain quiet. I recall that it happens often when it comes to these sorts of crimes, some victims tend to go quiet because of fear.

Unfortunately, I have to leave this for later. I'm leaving for Tokyo tomorrow and I won't return until Saturday. The next time I'm in Sobu will be when our exams start, significantly shortening my spare time. But it doesn't matter, I'll have to help her.

Heh, if it wasn't for the game necessitating reaching out to that girl, I wonder if I would have done anything…

I shake my head, as I turn my focus on my phone. Looks like Miura is planning to stick with the Student Council once they finish. That's good, being around company with that guy keeps him from trying anything. Call me paranoid, but when I know that people disapprove of me being around Miura, that tells me that she basically has a target on her back because she's unattainable.

I hesitate in writing my reply. If I voice my concerns, it'll only cause her to worry and potentially panic. And I also don't want her to get the wrong idea. She's still a girl who confessed to 'me,' the last thing I need is opening that can of worms before I'm ready to address it.

–Careful on your way back.

It wasn't enough to encompass what I felt, but I couldn't do more than that without needlessly troubling my blonde classmate.

I pocket my phone as I slowly trek towards the school gates, only to be met with a sight that I didn't particularly look forward to, even in my own world…

Yukinoshita Haruno was standing just by the gate, leaning on the wall as she fiddled with her phone. My eyes widened not because she was there, I somehow expected her to make a move since I'd avoided her all this time, but the way she was dressed…

For the love of… Damn it, woman! It's nearing the winter season, why the hell are you wearing that!?

It was a white sundress that showed an insane amount of skin, it wasn't risque (lest she be escorted off of campus) but it wasn't appropriate for the season. The day might have warmed after a while, but it wasn't enough to warrant the clothes she was wearing. I felt a phantom chill run through me just thinking about it.

The damn thing doesn't even reach your knees, dammit! I don't know where I'm supposed to look!

Good grief, at least wear a jacket or something…

"Hey~"

She approaches upon spotting me, each step threatening to show more than I wanted to see… not that I wanted to see anything… They bounced slightly… geez…

Great, how do I talk to her? Too casual and I risk validating the stupid rumors about her, if us just speaking right now doesn't already do the trick. Too formal and I either draw suspicion because we're… close…

"Aren't you cold?" I end up asking, it's casual enough and a decent icebreaker. Just please don't twist it into something bad, I get enough of that with Utaha…

Haruno tilted her head, standing just before me with a smile, "Oh, are you suggesting something?"

Damn it! How is it the guy who is constantly said to have eyes reflecting his lecherous nature is the pure one!? I was being honest! Huh? I'll have you know that the fact that my eyes kept catching glimpses of Haruno-san's Harunos is purely coincidental! I'm just keeping an eye out on her body temperature, really!

"I'm suggesting that it's cold," I keep my poker face on tight, and keep an even tone.

Her smile widens, "I'm fine though. I wanted to impress you, although you have already seen every inch of my body."

I fight every instinct to flush at the woman's blatant proclamation. Just because there doesn't appear to be students around doesn't mean there aren't any in the area.

"Stop that," I scolded her with a scowl, "Last thing either of us need is someone overhearing."

I hate that I have to validate her claim even though I know it's true.

"True, but I told you already I don't care what my family says, or think for that matter," She clasps my arm, pulling herself very close to me, my line of sight becoming far more intimidating.

Gah! You must resist!

I wrench my arm away and growl, "I care about not getting you in trouble acting this way with an underage student in public, woman."

As much as I didn't appreciate her teasing in my world, that Haruno knew how to keep it innocent.

"Is it that or… maybe you don't want your new friends to find out about us," An evil glint shines in her eyes for just a second as my eyes widen. "Why the surprised face? You thought I wouldn't know? Silly Hachi-kun~"

Where did she learn about that? Nobody from my group of supposed friends has connections to her that are remotely positive as far as I could tell, Yukinoshita ignores my very existence, so who…?

Ah, shit… I forgot. This woman is actually a family friend somehow, and Komachi really likes her for some reason.

Tired of this, I bluntly ask, "Is that why you're here? To lay your claim?"

It's easier to ask about this sort of thing by dissociating myself from it.

She frowns, eyes narrowing, "Are you seriously asking that?" She takes two steps around me, "I don't need to claim what's already mine, you know?" She looks at me with a knowing smile, "See what I did there?"

I did, she's basically stating that she's asserting dominance against anyone she thinks is interested. The odd thing is that it should only be with Miura as she's the only classmate that had obvious interest in the previous Hachiman. Kawasaki only seems to be on decent terms, and Shiromeguri-senpai was someone I only started speaking to, 'I' hadn't spoken to her previously.

I used the brief numbness that washed over me to my advantage and schooled my expression.

"For someone assured about your place, you were quick to bring my new 'friends' up," I calmly pointed out before asking challengingly, "Unless, you meant it for me?"

She pushed my nose playfully with a finger and winked, "Who knows?" Resting her hands before me, she leans towards me… My expression tightens at the act.

"So, shall we?"

"No," I reject her with an edge to my voice, not caring whether this was like her invitation from last time, "I don't live at your convenience, woman. I have things to do before I go to Tokyo tomorrow."

She didn't respond immediately, only stared directly at my face for a moment, "No, you say?" Straightening herself, she steps up to me, "It's been a whole week since you basically rejected me and you still refuse. And worse now that you're going to Tokyo out of nowhere?"

There's a challenging glint in her gaze now, a bit like the Haruno I knew but unlike her because it was very noticeable.

Normally I would retreat here and discontinue our conversation, but I knew she wouldn't allow that. She'd twist my intent again and claim that I was playing coy in an attempt to catch me off guard. Without realizing it, I was engaging in a duel of words with Haruno, and I was this close to losing. Winning for her meant she'd get her way, which was an impossibility, short of knocking me out and kidnapping me, I had no intent on going anywhere with the woman. My win would be staving her off without drawing suspicion by damaging our ties.

She wasn't a creation, which was already obvious because she was nineteen, but that didn't mean I should toss her aside. First of all, Haruno wasn't the type to let that happen if it wasn't on her own terms. And second, she's a family friend, right now my family probably thinks we argued which is why we haven't had her around lately, so burning bridges with her would have them react negatively.

Taking all of this into account, I fired back.

"What can I say? You're not the only one testing the waters here," I shrug at her ominously, "You proved your insecurity, I want to see if you want to add fickleness to the list."

She stares blankly until a sly smirk splits her face, "Kinky… It's been a while since you last acted like this… can't say I dislike it. Something is different though," She rests a hand on my shoulder and I resist the urge to shrug it off. "Your eyes… they… are different…"

I withheld a groan at my eyes being brought up for their usual insults. But I stem that down. No, with how this Haruno is and shares with the one I knew, it's that she does anything but follow the norm.

"And here I thought you were above playground insults," I almost taunted her, but I stopped myself from going past that point. Challenging her is hard enough, I don't need to devolve it further.

"I think you misunderstand me, Hachi-kun," She waves a finger. "It's not how they look, but what they transmit. I noticed a clear difference between them since the last time I saw you… as if…" She giggles darkly, "As if they belonged to another person. Now look at me, saying something so silly, hehe…"

For a fraction of a second, my eyes widened. That's the second time someone has said that to me. Takanashi Touka mentioned my eyes displaying something different than what she saw in my previous self. And it's a lot more dangerous hearing it from Haruno.

"I guess you can blame it on the cold affecting your head," I feign an amused huff. Take the bait and get off of this topic, as supernatural as this world is, souls being swapped shouldn't be a known phenomena.

She bites her lower lip, seemingly amused, "Au contraire, Hachi-kun." With a tilted head, she presses a delicate finger against my chest, the motion leaking seduction to an insane degree. "I'm very hot… right now. There's only one way to cool it down…"

"Do it yourself," I bluntly reject her, even as I feel chills crawl down my spine at her touch. "I told you, I'm busy."

"Not even a bit of time?" She pouts slightly, which completely startles me as I'm in no way used to seeing this sort of behavior on some such as her. "You've been neglecting me too much… and I'm starting to really dislike it."

The contrast between the pout she first made and the current intimidating gaze she pinned me up with was jarring to be honest.

"Get over it. I'm on thin ice with my parents as is," I glare back at her, "You might not care what your family says, but I don't have the same level of freedom to be fine with getting thrown out."

"I mean, you know you can crash at my place for as long as you want…"

I actually scoffed this time, "Sure, I can do that. Then what happens when you get reported for housing an underage student and then our past gets found out? If you're so willing to cut ties with your family, what's going to keep you from getting in trouble, especially considering how our justice system works?"

Japan's rate of conviction exceeds ninety percent. Someone naive could say that justice prevails in our country, but that can't be the case. Forced confessions or testimonies have to factor into it, so even someone innocent could be convicted for crimes they hadn't done.

And Haruno would not be one of those people.

With a hand beneath her chin, she seems to be pondering, her pursed lips showing that I was right, "I guess you have a point… and I really hate that you do." She heaves a sigh, folding her arms in an obvious gesture of irritation. "Talking about that, it's been a while since I last visited your house. You know, I've been very considerate, giving you space, but I'm in the mood of visiting your family later. I miss Komachi-chan."

Was that meant to be a threat?

In my previous life, I'd immediately thought it was and I had half a mind to tell her she couldn't but I stopped myself begrudgingly. Unfortunately she was a family friend, and although I don't know why she 'gave me space,' I only convinced my family that we were having a spat rather than being done with one another.

"Do what you want," I sigh, it's not like I could ever stop her, especially in these next three days. "You might not like what you see, if you do visit."

Namely, Deviluke and Belldandy. The goddess might easily assuage Haruno that she isn't romantically inclined towards me, but the opposite would happen with Deviluke, what with her always calling my 'Darling' whenever she can.

My biggest worry would be Haruno causing a scene where she's put at risk by the Ultimate Force if she tries anything, but I'm sure they can handle things. Wait, they might actually tell her the truth without me there to lie for Belldandy…

Ugh…

She stares directly at my eyes for a fleeting moment, her eyes devoid of any light, which creeps me the hell out.

"What is it… that I won't like?" Her tone betrays the emotionless smile she sported, "Is it the reason why you've been so 'busy' lately?"

Actually, if I had to say, those two just ate away at what little free time I had left to spare. It was everyone else who kept me busy all the time.

"Not really, those were separate headaches." I shrug, "Just try not to cause a scene if you do wind up visiting while I'm gone."

"Komachi-chan probably misses me anyway… maybe I should visit…"

Yep, it's totally a threat.

Hah… I'm going to have to figure something out to keep Belldandy from blabbing about her being a Goddess here to help Komachi grant her wish.

Either way, I don't answer her, and only give an uncommitting grunt.

"So… aren't exams coming?" She suddenly asked, "Why are you going to Tokyo outta nowhere? I know you don't really have the need to study, but still…"

I don't really see a problem telling her the truth about it, she'll hear about it anyway if she does pay a visit to my house.

"Yukihira needs me for some food competition at his school," I say with no small amount of annoyance, "He wouldn't take 'No' for an answer."

But she doesn't need to know about Ayanokouji being the main reason I'm going.

"Souma-kun… huh…" Her eyes become distant for a moment before looks at me again, a small pout on her face, "Are you going alone?"

"No, he invited Usui along," I answered steadily, before frowning and giving her a serious look as I realized her intent, "And, no, you can't come. It's a closed event."

She sighs, "Was worth the try…"

"Anyway, I have to go see Usui at his school to confirm he's going," I sigh, treating it as if it was troublesome although it actually was. Seeing her about to open her mouth, I promptly added, "And, no, you can't come with me."

"You do really know me…" She giggled, "As long as that 'walking cosmetics counter' you decided to have as a friend doesn't go with you, I don't really mind."

Was she talking about Miura…?

"Right…" I nod, refusing to open that can of worms, "Well, anyway, I should probably get going now."

Just as I was about to turn around, I felt a strong grip on my shirt. With a mischievous smile on Haruno's face, I just knew what she was about to do.

I feel my panic skyrocket at the look of her face. Oi, oi, you're going to stretch the fabric! Are you going to pay for my replacement? I'll have you know, I'm petty enough to demand for named brand clothing!

Wait, seriously, stop with that gaze. Even someone like me knew what she wanted as she looked up at me with that sort of longing. I wanted nothing more than to run, hell, I didn't care if I had to ditch my shirt just to get away.

But that would be a waste of a perfectly good shirt.

Well, unlike Deviluke, who seemed to make a habit of catching me off guard. I had time to actually react here, especially since Haruno seemed to want me to make the first move.

And with that, she lost!

First, I school my expression as I set my gaze down at her. I'm just guessing here, I'm not Usui, so I don't even try bothering to give her a disarming smile or smirk. I feel I'd look stupid.

Her cheeks redden, her gaze intensified as she bites her lower lip.

"Hachi-kun…"

I had to keep myself from swallowing. It was taking a conscious effort to not be accidentally enraptured, somehow I managed to forget just how captivating this woman was. I really was playing with fire.

I refocus, and extend my hand so I could hold up her chin with my fingers. Slowly, I move my hand so as to cup her cheek, and she closes her eyes at my action. My lingering eyes focus on her lips for a brief second before I force myself out of it.

Defy the temptation, you idiot.

Taking advantage of her shut gaze, I move my hand further up. I must have been taking too long for her liking, because Haruno began to press herself up to me in order to close the distance. But by doing so, she just hastened falling into my trap!

Because my hand went from cupping her cheek, to my index finger being pressed against her forehead, effectively stopping her from closing the gap.

Clearly she noticed it, because she opened her eyes to look up at me in bemusement. My serious expression gave way to a shit-eating grin as I promptly flicked her forehead with free fingers.

She stares in confusion, utterly stunned and rendered speechless. It was like she literally couldn't register what just happened. All she could do was hold her forehead, where I had flicked it.

"I told you, nothing in public," And then I casually turned my back to her, raising a hand behind me.

"Careful on your way back!" I say with good humor, and begin to power walk in haste.

Stupid Hikki: 1. Haruno: 0.

10-7

So this is Usui's school, huh? It's closer than I expected.

Seika High School.

It's pretty small for a high school, the front building is interconnected with two larger ones with four stories. Rather than small, it's more like… compact? The nearby residential area for this part of Chiba is for the people who live on a budget, so it's not surprising for a school to reflect that.

With how late it was, I didn't expect many students to still be on campus, but even so the scant amount of them I did see were predominantly male. They wore the same uniform I've seen Usui in, so that proves that I'm in the right place. Although for some reason, almost all of the males had their heads down and looked above their shoulders as if expecting someone to pounce on them. I think I even heard some of them whisper about a 'Demon Prez' which keeps me from entering.

Luckily, I hadn't been recognized since all the guys seem to be stuck in their paranoid delusions of high school life(lol) which is fine for me because I don't feel the need to deal with any more headaches.

[How much more time are you going to waste here?]

Spoke too soon…

I almost want to spite the annoying specter following me, but I did agree that just waiting out here would get annoying. But it's not like I can just enter and hope I stumble upon them or anything.

For the sake of not looking insane to the people around me, I pull out my phone and pretend to talk into it.

"I can't walk inside, you idiot. I wouldn't know where to go, and that's ignoring the fact that I'm not a student. It's trespassing."

[I'm certain that someone like Usui, or that girl he likes are well known around here, although for different reasons. Ask somebody around and stop wasting time. There's much to do.]

"Pheh, easy for you to say. You're not the one that has to talk to them."

When he doesn't respond I pocket my phone with a frustrated sigh, reluctantly deciding to call out to someone, but a cry draws my attention first.

"Ah! T-that's a Sobu uniform!" I looked up to see two boys of comically different heights a few paces away, the shorter one looked terrified and was pointing at me. "Wha-what's someone from Sobu doing here?!"

The shorter student wore a gray vest over his uniform, which was exactly like Usui's. He looked to be about the same height as Yuuki, and no less unassuming. Aside from having orange eyes (seriously, what the hell?) he had a frail look to him, like if he were a small kitten or something. He was kind of like a knock-off Totsuka, without the angelic purity that makes you want to protect him forever.

The taller one was just under Usui's height, if only because he slouched. He wore glasses, and had a somewhat troubled expression on his face as he looked down at his companion for calling attention to us. His uniform was similar, but he wore a white hoodie underneath his green jacket. Really, not only does this school choose bright colors, they're pretty lax about the dress codes.

I can see the tell-tale signs that the taller of the two was a former loner. I'm sure there's a story on how he became friends with someone so loud.

"Senpai… You shouldn't point and shout…" I hear the bespectacled student tell the still-panicking boy.

Of course he's the kohai between them and the bite-sized one is the senpai… Why wouldn't that be the case?

"Eh?" The short one snaps out of his bewildered state and looks at his companion before turning back at me. "O-oh… I'm sorry…"

"It's fine," I waved him off, "I was wondering if you could give me directions to the Student Council."

Both boys blink at my request, and the shorter one speaks up again.

"Huh? B-but aren't other schools still in the process of deciding their Student Council members?" He looked up at his kohai, who looked like he was recalling bad memories, "We only just finished voting ourselves last week."

I vaguely recall Usui mentioning something like that.

"Ah, I'm not here as a representative for Sobu," I tell him, "I'm just here to see someone."

"Ah!" The outburst from the smaller student surprised the tall one and myself, "Could it be that you were also summoned to Totsuki Academy like Usui-san!?"

They knew about that?

As if noticing the question in my gaze, the boy I was talking to flushes as he bows his head.

"Ah, I-I'm Yukimura Shouichirou and this is Soutarō Kanou-kun," He introduces himself sheepishly, "I'm the Vice President of Seika's Student Council, so I heard about it from the principal. It was unexpected that Usui-san accepted the invitation, right, Kanou-kun?"

"Yeah…" He responds in a subdued manner, further confirming my hypothesis about him being a loner. He bows as he meets my gaze.

"Hikigaya Hachiman," I greet them evenly, expecting the usual flak about my status as a delinquent. But to my surprise there was none, heck, it doesn't even look like they recognize my name.

After a moment Yukimura gives me directions to the Student Council room after advising me that so long as I don't cause trouble for the teachers that they won't mind me being there. I rejected his offer to guide me there out of not wanting to socialize more than I had to and thanked him for his offer; they departed soon afterwards.

[Wasn't so hard, huh?]

Shut up…

Still, I hadn't thought that my infamy wouldn't have reached here. They recognized my uniform well enough, but not that I was… (ugh) 'Shadow Fist,' or maybe they just knew the nickname but had no face to place that label? I suppose whatever the case was, I should count myself lucky. I could have been barred from entering by a teacher who knew of me.

It's odd though. The halls of this school only had the occasional student, although I haven't seen a single female student since I entered the gates. If it wasn't for the fact that Usui was mentioned by name I would have thought I was in the wrong school entirely. What's with the disproportionate number of guys here?

It's pretty mundane too, at least compared to Sobu, which is to be expected because of its location. It reminded me of my middle school actually, if a bit smaller.

Now where was it? Ah, here we are.

"…didn't think you'd be so curious~" I hear a certain teasing voice come from the room before me. I heave a sigh in preparation.

"I…! It's just weird for you to accept something like that! I didn't think you would!" A familiarly incensed voice rings out in response, "You… You've always ignored those kinds of requests…"

Yeesh, now I'm stuck in an awkward predicament walking into this… I really was proving Suou right about being an eavesdropper.

"Aren't you going to visit Miyabigaoka for the exchange meeting in Tokyo as well? Or do you think you'll miss being apart from me that much?"

Good grief, he's so quick to say things like that, isn't he?

"N-no! That's not what I mean!" I can imagine her embarrassed indignation at the auto-proclaimed-alien's words, "As the student council president, it's my duty to make sure you don't damage Seika's reputation since you're a shameless pervert!"

"Hehh… But Ayuzawa doesn't have to worry about that," Usui's voice gains a hint of smugness, "I'm only shameless with you. Doesn't that make you happy?"

"That doesn't make me happy at all, you perverted alien!"

I shake myself out of my idleness after almost being drawn into their comedy sketch. With another sigh, I started to walk to the open doorway so I could knock and make my presence known.

[That guy sure knows how to handle his woman, hehe. Why don't you let him teach you how it's done?]

I look to my left and see my Shadow leaning against the wall without a care. I stop and pull away from the door. Instead of talking, so as to not be overheard (ironic), I communicate through my thoughts this time.

He and I are fundamentally different people. I can mimic parts of his methods, but there's only so much I can do before I sound patronizing and insulting to others. He has characteristics that let him get away with a lot more than I can.

[You can be who you want to be, and it's not like you're hurtful to the eyes… You at least should try changing that lame expression of yours.]

Shut up, this is who I am. Even if I practice that 'fake it 'til you make it' crap, I'd sound artificial to everyone before I get the hang of it. I'm the more serious type, while he's easygoing or at least appears to be.

I sigh to myself. It wasn't like I failed to see the strategy, but I knew my limitations for such methods.

I've already tried it to mixed results, you should know that. Utaha and Suou are the only ones it really worked against. And I'm not good at it enough to be anything more than harmless ribbing.

[Pitiful. Whatever… I suppose that someone like that can have their charms… Meh…]

And with a blink of the eye, the alter-ego of mine was gone… He's a serious pain, honestly…

"…the thing! Why were you chosen to go and why did you accept?"

Oh man, they still weren't done?

"It's a favor for a friend," Usui's voice happily chimes in even though it's not completely true, "I do actually have them, you know?"

What a guy…

"No, I…" His female companion's voice falters slightly, "I didn't mean it like that…"

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 10 Section: Song 04

---

It's curious, she didn't sound particularly regretful about accidentally hurting Usui with her words. No, the inflection of her voice was more like she was confused about the situation entirely. Right, she didn't even know that he hung out with the others.

I stand at the doorway. Looking inside, I see a fondly smiling Usui sitting on a chair adjacent to the blackboard (how old-fashioned) at the front of the classroom, the Ayuzawa girl had her back to me and was looking down whilst standing before the blonde boy. He noted my arrival immediately with raised brows.

And then, I saw it… That familiar symbol floated over her and overtook my sight and focus, making her my eighth confirmed suspect. I grimaced as a jolt of pain pulsed through my head, and kept myself from making noise. I felt Usui's gaze on me sharpen while my regular vision slowly came back to me. I shake my head to recenter myself so I could at least appear normal to the newest 'contestant' of the game.

Obviously I can't tell him now, but he noticed the brief affliction I went through once I looked at the woman he cared for. So I know he'll suspect something and will later ask about it.

The room remains quiet for a few moments which I use to recover.

"Well," Usui pipes up, his usual smile different with his hawk-like gaze leveled on me, "You can see for yourself with my friend here, right, Hikigaya?"

"HUH!?" At that, the girl whirled to follow the blonde's gaze and faced me. Her expression was morphed in shock and confusion after recognizing who I was, "It's… It's you…"

"Pardon the intrusion," I responded in kind. Immediately afterwards, as if just registering who I was, the girl blanched in horror. What's with that?

"You don't have to worry about him, you know?" Usui's voice calmly rose, "Hikigaya isn't the type of person who cares about where others work, I wouldn't have invited him if he did."

She glares at him with a red-face scowl but refrains from speaking of her obvious irritation. Turning back to me, I could see her own reservations on my potential judgment hidden behind her defiant gaze. Huh, what a head-strong girl…

"Yeah," I nod easily enough, "Students our age don't really have many options when it comes to the jobs we get, especially ones that actually pay well."

Kawasaki chose to lie about her age and work at a high-class bar precisely because of how little pay normal jobs are for teenagers. Although with how popular that maid cafe I went to was, enough so that an actual idol showed up, I wouldn't be surprised if the girl in front of me was paid better than average.

"It's not like I mind working there…" She furrows her brows before shaking her head, and glaring at me. I almost had to backstep at the sudden hostility, but seeing the palpable amusement on Usui's face kept me steady if only just to spite the idiot. "But I know who you are! Everyone at work talked about your poor reputation!"

I raise an eyebrow and cooly lean against the doorway. Remember Hachiman, you have to act aloof and in control of things…

Before I can defend myself, Usui cuts in.

"Now, now, Prez," He smoothly pats the girl's shoulder as he stands behind her, "Even if he has those bad eyes, as a representative of our school, you shouldn't threaten someone from Sobu so blatantly."

"S-Sobu!?" The small flush that came to her face when he touched her immediately drained as she heard my school's name, "Him!?"

Excuse me, but can you not talk about me like I'm not in the room? Also, was that jab at my eyes really necessary, Pretty Boy?

"Yeah, me," I mutter with some annoyance. Although I know I'm supposed to be more confrontational, I keep the "You have a problem with that?" provocation to myself. I may have to grow a spine, but I don't think I'll ever be as naturally hostile to other people as I'm supposed to be.

Well, not without meaning to, anyway.

"Well now, how about we try this again?" Usui's chipper tone easily cuts through the awkward silence without a care, "We should start with introductions, right?"

Looking at him, I wonder how different my life would have been if I had this guy's way with steering conversations. I can't help but feel somewhat jealous at how well he undercuts these situations.

I sigh and rub the back of my head, what the heck am I doing thinking these things at this time?

"I'm Hikigaya Hachiman, a second year student from Sobu." I relaxed the tension in my body and gave my name first.

The girl blinks, there is still some distrust in her eyes but she reluctantly responds, "Ayuzawa Misaki, I'm the Student Council President of Seika…"

So the girl who caught the eye of Usui is Ayuzawa Misaki, huh? And she's the president as a second year as well. A kind-hearted maid who is also a strong-willed student council president? Sounds like one of Komachi's romance mangas… Either way, that means she had to get voted in as a first year, right? Well if she's still president, she probably sought out the role instead of having it forced on her like Isshiki.

Well, in my world that is, I have no idea what's going on with the elections right now.

Still, Ayuzawa glowered at me after noticing how I subconsciously raised an eyebrow at the information.

"Is there a problem that a girl's the president?"

What?

"What?" I echo my thoughts, stupefied. Why would I have a problem with that?

"Seika used to be an all-boys school a few years back and the male population outnumbers the girls by a large amount," Usui fills in the blank for me, "Ayuzawa took it upon herself to be their sole defender while dragging the boys into modernity, isn't she cool?"

"W-wait, don't say it like that!" A once again red-faced Ayuzawa hollers, grabbing Usui's shirt.

"Eh? But isn't that what you do?" His innocent question has the normal teasing inflections to them.

"It… It sounds embarrassing when you say it!" She further iterates her embarrassment. So it's not her achievements that she's self-conscious about, but that Usui's the one talking about them.

"But it's not like I told him about your methods of vi—" Usui's mouth is promptly covered, preventing him from continuing.

"S-shut up!" This time she practically screeches at him. Usui blinks a bit at her action before a sly look comes over him.

"Hya!" A surprisingly cute squeal comes from the girl as she pulls her hand back in a hurry. She turns a dozen deeper shades of red as she looks between her palm and the now smug blonde.

"You…!"

"If you're both done," I interrupt the tirade in the making with a drawl, "I just came to confirm that this guy was going to Totsuki too."

Seriously, you two keep going off to your own world when you talk to each other for any amount of time.

Ayuzawa practically has a perpetual flush on her face at this point before the second part of my words register. "You… You're going too?"

I could read into the underlying intent of her words. She was questioning whether someone of my 'integrity' was allowed into Totsuki's campus. It's a legitimate inquiry all things considered.

"They had no issue with it," I shrug before gesturing to Usui, "And he knows how annoying our mutual acquaintance is about cooking so it's either we go or he nags us the next time we see him."

Ayuzawa doesn't respond, instead looking down at the ground, a myriad of emotions running through her face as she absorbs this information. Did she really not know? Is this the first time she's interacted with this side of Usui's life? Just how did this guy manage to keep this under wraps for so long? He said they met in Spring.

I look at the blonde in question and he has an ambiguous look on his face as he watches the confused girl. When he notices my gaze, some exasperation runs through him and he smiles somewhat helplessly.

I know that he has his story that he can't really speak about, and I was the only exception because I pried it out of him but isn't knowing about the group he hung out with fine? He admits he isn't particularly close with us either, probably because he wants to keep the ties flexible enough to stick around when it suited him but also so he could cut them at any point. It's quite the pragmatic way to hold acquaintances.

Although Hiratsuka-sensei would probably say it's pretty warped too.

"Well, that's all I came here for," I draw their attention again, "I'll see you around."

"Later, Hikigaya," His farewell came out easily, his mask of casual approach back in place.

Ayuzawa in turn looked like she had a lot of questions for me, about Usui no doubt, but was unable to voice them. Whether it was because she didn't know how to, or wasn't sure if she wanted to hear the answers I didn't have, I had no idea. I just knew that she was deeply unsatisfied realizing just how much of an enigma the boy she was tied to really was.

I silently nod at her in acknowledgement and exit the room so I could head home.

Their relationship is nothing short of complicated. One wants to pursue it but knows he cannot and the other is unsure of what to think, even though there are feelings.

I don't envy them.

10-8

I think this might be the first time in my life that I don't want to be home…

I was standing before the door to my lovely home-not-home, but have yet to enter. Luckily for me, the blinds of our windows were closed, so I couldn't be seen from inside.

The sun was just starting to set, so there was still a good amount of light out. I got a message from Usui on my way here, telling me that he was going to pass by later to pick me up. Well, it's not really 'picking me up' when we're walking to his place, is it?

There wasn't really much to look forward to. The guaranteed scolding for staying out last night, having to lie about that so they wouldn't know about Utaha, Deviluke breaking my spine as she tackles me because she hasn't seen me, letting everyone know that I'm going to stay out again tonight with Usui and the subsequent tantrum Deviluke will have because she can't come along to Tokyo. Hah… Wasn't there a way to just fast-forward through all that and be in my room? Oi, Time God, do something for me here, would ya?

I accept the incoming migraine and open the door.

"I'm home."

"HACHIMAAAAAAAAAAAAAANNNNNNNNNNNNNN!"

"Wh— OOF!"

And in the transition of just a couple of seconds, I found my gaze basically forced to look at the ceiling, some minor aches pulsing through my back and an empty lung capacity from a sudden impact. I now lay on the ground between the entrance of my home and the dining room, with a certain weight atop of my body.

This weight was the 'reason' for my current predicament, of course. And I wish I could have voiced my displeasure, but my breath had yet to return to me, alas, I could only gulp in much needed air.

"Hachiman! Hachiman! Hachimaaaaaaaaaaannnnnn!"

"…Y-yo, Deviluke," I hoarse out, not bothering to fight back. I'm just glad I'm alive.

And just then, I noticed the damned mark over her head. It seems that even as an alien, she in fact fulfills the conditions of the game. Luckily, my aching head came and went away as fast as the other times. Even if I grimaced, it could be attributed to her tackling me down.

Damn it. She really had to get dragged into this…

I balled my hands into fists, frustrated at the grim revelation.

"Hachiman! I missed you soooo much! Where were you!?" The pinkhead shouted while pressing herself against me, as was usual. I spotted a spying goddess behind the strands of pink hair blocking my gaze.

A glance was all I needed this time before another rush of pain coursed through my head.

I look back up at the ceiling and temper my emotions to not give off the anger I wanted to feel. I didn't want the goddess to sense them either and start questioning anything, let alone come to a misunderstanding that I was angered at her or Deviluke.

How did Belldandy count? She's a goddess, there's no way she could be less than 18 years old. And even if I was willing, how would I have been able to even harm, let alone kill, Belldandy? She's omnipotent compared to me, I would literally have to wish for her death or something and I'm sure her people's Valkyries would kill me first! Or I would have had to sic those angeloids on her, which I wouldn't.

Damn it…

It took a bit to forcibly calm myself, I didn't expect it to bother me this much. They all bothered me, really, I can't deny it. Still, I think that my anger with Yuigahama being in the game was the only thing that pissed me off more than these two being brought in.

Alright, alright, Hachiman. Relax already.

"A lot of stuff came up…" I mutter as I move to get back up. Deviluke surprisingly lets me, but manages to keep her hold of me the entire way through. Soon, I was back on my feet with a giggling alien backpack hanging onto me. Honestly, what was this situation?

"Hachiman-san!" A calm, cheerful voice called my attention. "It's so good to have you back."

Pops also approaches, "Look who finally decided to show up, huh…" He sported this annoying smile… "The prodigal son returns."

What is with this exaggerated reception? I was gone for a day and a half, and the half was because of school. That's dramatically different compared to only seeing you for five or ten minutes each day, you knoooow!

"Sorry for staying out," I ignored Deviluke pressing her cheek to mine for sanity's sake, "The rain got in my way."

"C'mon son, spill the beans," His cocky smile spread from side to side, "It was a girl, right?"

Belldandy tilts her head at that with blinking eyes, "…A girl?"

And the alien girl stops pressing her cheeks on mine (thankfully) and stares at me questioningly, "A-another girl!, Hachiman?"

You shitty old man, what the hell is wrong with you? I know that this is based off of what your actual son did, but come on, lay off already. I don't care how accurate your prediction was.

I keep my annoyance from showing, and simply roll my eyes.

"No," I mutter and promptly end that topic, "Is Kaa-san here?"

The sound of steps coming from the stairs called my attention, my bespectacled mother sporting a rather curt expression… geez… she looks scary!

"Where else would I be?" Deviluke lets go of me as the matriarch of the Hikigaya household approaches me, and suddenly grabs my face by the chin, moving it from one side to the other, as if she was inspecting it. "No apparent scratches…" Her eyes narrow slightly, "Why didn't you come home?"

"I got rained out after the new homeroom teacher had me stay after class yesterday," I explained with a frown, wanting nothing more than to pull away, "Then once the weather got worse, I went to stay over at my nearest friend's house."

"Is that right?" Her suspicious gaze lingers for a moment before she releases a sigh, "I know you have done so before, but I'd rather have you take a cab if something like that happens. Next time just do that, I don't care how much you have to pay."

Well, of course you'd say that when it's my money we're talking about…

"It's fine, isn't it?" I kept the snide comment to myself, "I wasn't with a stranger or anything, plus, I called home to let you guys know I was fine. It's not my fault you and Pops weren't here."

Suddenly, Pops butts in, "I'm surprised you stayed at Usui's. Didn't think you two were close." He chuckles slightly, "Guess that's fine. I'm sure he'll help you score more girls. Hahaha!"

"Otou-san!" My mother directs a scowl at him.

He waves his hands nervously, "It's a joke!" And clears his throat, "A-anyway, what's the deal with this Tokyo trip I heard about?"

My mother nods her head, however, Deviluke and Belldandy gasp in surprise, even Komachi who just appeared from the living room. "We got a call from your school. All we know is that it's where Souma-kun is studying. What does this have to do with you?"

And yet, I barely could register her words as my eyes lingered on yet a new floating mark visible only by me. The rage I felt overcame the pain coursing through my head as I came to see that one of my worst fears became reality.

Damn. Damn. Damn! DAMN!

That bastard god of time chose Komachi as a suspect in the game… Not her… Not her… Damn it all… Just the thought that she could… Why did it have to drag her into it!?

She's my sister, dammit! I helped raise her! How the fuck could you have expected me to kill her!? If she is the created being, then I automatically lose. No amount of mental preparation would have given me the resolve to kill Komachi, let alone still think I deserved to go back to my world if I had somehow gone through with it! If I hadn't already sworn to refuse your sick game, this would have been the last straw!

You've gone too far, Deus Ex Machina!

"Hachiman, why are you putting on that face?" My mother's concerned tone breaks my furious trance, "Is this a repercussion of your fight?" She turns to Pops, "I knew we should have taken him to a hospital!"

Shit… I force my anger to quell, to stop drawing attention towards me. Belldandy sensed something this time, no doubt. Luckily I was looking at the ground so Komachi wasn't subjected to whatever intense glare accompanied my unfortunate discovery. I could only be thankful that my mother misinterpreted my expression as one caused by pain. Maybe that's what she noticed first before my scowl came.

"Sorry… It's… been a long day," I sighed and answered truthfully, "Yukihira has some food competition coming up at his school and nagged me to go help him. Apparently his school is allowed to summon us for it."

Oyaji frowns, placing a hand on my shoulder. He stares at me for a moment, but whatever he may have wanted to say, he eventually lets go. I wanted to shrug it off, but the look on his face lingered on my mind for a moment. He may have just wanted to make sure I was actually fine and not forcing myself.

He must have been satisfied to an extent since he didn't press it.

"Are you serious, Hachiman!?" Deviluke grabs my arm, "You're going away for three days!? What is Totsuki? Can I come with you!?"

"Onii-chan is going to Tokyo?" Komachi asks, bewildered.

"Yeah. A cooking academy. No. And yeah." I answer the simple stuff, "I'd never hear the end of it if I didn't go."

Probably not untrue even if that wasn't why I was going. But how would it go if I told them I was going to be skulking for girls while there. Ah geez… Just saying it like that feels gross.

"We do know how he is…" My mothers mutters, folding her arms. "But three days, Hachiman? You will be in another city!?"

"Another city!?" Deviluke exclaims, wide-eyed and tightening her grip on my arm. Oi, oi, I still need that!

Well, that confirms that they don't need to know that I was in another city last night…

"It's not like I'm going to Honshu or anything, it's just the next prefecture…" Ah, again I'll be asked to leave my beloved Chiba, and this time I'll have to go to the false capital.

"Still, boy. Anything could happen to you while you're so far away," My mother fixes her glasses. "We wouldn't even know…"

What's with this overprotectiveness? I'm far used to parents who disregard me outside of the bare minimum. Stop it.

"C'mon, Okaa-san. He's a grown man already, and has managed through all his troubles, no? Besides, this is a great chance! Totsuki is a worldwide known culinary academy! He'll learn a lot there! Besides, Souma will be there too."

I cock an eyebrow, not expecting the old geezer backing me up.

"It'll be fine, Kaa-san," I try to assuage her worries, "I'll be careful."

"I'm worried… Didn't you see the news about that bombing?" She responds curtly, "What is there to say that something like that won't happen in Tokyo?"

Pops pulls my mother and hugs her, patting her head, "Now, now. That's obviously some political problems between those two countries. Nothing to do with us here in Japan. Don't be so pessimistic, Okaa-san."

Yeah, that's usually my thing.

"Isn't Academy City also close to Tokyo?" She growls suddenly, "What if one of those crazy espers comes out!? What if they go on a rampage a—"

"Woman, calm down!"

I blink in surprise, actually, everyone does as the old geezer had raised his voice, loud enough to be sharp and cut through my mother's nervous tantrum.

Silence then enveloped the whole house. Deviluke and Belldandy looked uncertain, while Komachi seemed a bit fearful. Even Kamakura —who was soundly resting on a pillow by the window— turned to our group, although for a fleeting moment.

This wasn't something that ever happened before in this family. Nevermind being the center of this much worry, but my father raising his voice. I was used to him being quiet, awkward, grumpy when he didn't sleep well, a daughter-con, and only giving shitty life advice. But this… This wasn't a side I ever once saw, a demanding presence that brokered no argument.

Usually that was my mother who had such an ability, and it was simply with a tone of voice, she didn't even need to raise her volume. This worrying wasn't what I was used to seeing, even with Komachi, I had never seen her dote on anyone this much. It wasn't a change I was used to, nor one I particularly liked.

Just goes to show as a reminder, these weren't my parents. That's probably why they bother me so much. I probably feel like they're overstepping their boundaries and feel generally uncomfortable with how much attention they pay me, but I still have to play the role of their son.

"Look…" I finally break the silence, "I'll be careful in Tokyo and give you guys a call each night so you can check up on me, if you want."

Silence continued for a moment, until the old geezer decided to speak.

"That will be for the best," He eyes my mother. "Should be enough, right?"

She frowns but eventually nods her head, "Yeah, that… That is enough… Sorry for my…" She looks at our 'guests', at Komachi and then at me. "I probably should take a pill and sleep early. I'll trust that you'll keep us updated should anything happen, Hachiman. When are you leaving?"

"Actually, Usui is passing by later on. I'll stay at his place again and leave early tomorrow to take the train," I elaborate.

"Okay, but eat something before you leave. Last thing I need is worrying about that," And with that said, my mother walks up the stairs in silence.

I turn to the old geezer, feeling awkward, "Need to prepare my stuff, so… can you watch over her, make sure she's alright?"

"Luckily for us, I'm a pro at that," He grins, before taking a serious expression. "Hey, I know you don't like me telling you this, but this time I think I should."

"What is it?" I ask.

"You've dealt with many things on your own, and that's fine but, if something happens, call and don't try to solve it by yourself. If you need me, I'll be there in a flash, ok?" I feel his grip tightening for a bit, "Be careful wherever you go, not only for yourself, but for us too. Don't forget to call."

He went to the second floor after that.

Hah…

I really don't know what to think anymore. Even in my world, I never had my parents display this much worry let alone trust in me even when I did nothing to deserve the contrary. I was fine with the casual, if somewhat distant relationship we shared. Komachi was in the spotlight, and I accepted that and even reinforced it.

They were different, but both versions of my parents had to share some fundamentals, right? Was I just not a decent enough son to warrant what this worse version of myself has with his parents?

To have a terrible connection with Komachi, but parents who obviously care… I really don't get him.

"Hachiman…"

Deviluke's whisper echoed, followed by Komachi heading to the stairs with a quick, "I… I j-just remembered that I had to call Mikan!

I can only wonder why Komachi felt the need to retreat as well, but as I thought about it… What if she had a somewhat paralleled experience that I did in my world? Instead of her being the one in the spotlight, she was the one feeling left out? Add onto the previous Hachiman's mistreatment while keeping quiet about it to our parents, she could be feeling the same isolation I felt but without the same proficiency to handle it like I could.

And as I turned to the goddess and the alien, returning steps came from the stairs. I gaze over my shoulder, spotting Komachi again leaning just enough to be visible to us.

"O-onii-chan… Before you leave… c-can you… come to my room?"

I blink at the sudden request —and so does Belldandy— but I soften my expression in the end, "Yeah, no problem."

I didn't expect that, but I had no reason to deny her. I don't know what she could want, but it must be important since she probably had to swallow her nerves to ask me —what I assume is— to talk in private. How could I deny her that?

"O-okay!" She responded before fading steps followed. I feel a bit of nostalgia from a time when my dear sister was much shyer. A time like that did exist once, didn't it?

"Hachiman's smile is cute…"

I blink at the sudden comment from Deviluke. What? Who's smiling? I'm not smiling. My lips must have probably twisted somehow at Komachi's surprising request… And no, my smile is not cute. Unless cute is another way to say creepy on your planet. You know, getting lost in translation.

"You're correct, Lala-san," Belldandy adds. "Hachiman-san has a beautiful smile."

I keep myself from covering my face in embarrassment, muttering, "Quit playing around…"

"It's the truth!"

Belldandy nods her head, "I agree."

This time I do feel some heat on my face, and avert my eyes, "Yeah, yeah… Uh, is there some food for me? I'm… kinda hungry."

Why do I feel self-conscious asking that without someone from my family being around?

"Certainly, Hachiman-san!" The cheerful woman claps her hands together, "Take a seat!"

I nod in thanks and make my way to the table while Belldandy heads to the kitchenette. As I sit in my usual spot, I look across to see Deviluke smiling back at me with an ado— errr… whatever…

"Didn't you eat already?" Was my bewildered question to the alien that followed me. She only nods in response prompting another question from me, "So what are you sitting here for then?"

"It's been so long since I could look at you, silly. I'm catching up!"

Normally I would give a roll of my eye, or tell her to quit acting like that but for some reason this time, I couldn't help but let out a small laugh, looking aside with a shake of my head. "You need to find better hobbies."

And… there was no response.

I curiously returned my gaze to her, only to see blinking her big green eyes and a surprised expression, "Hachiman…?"

"What's wrong?" I ask with some confusion, having no idea what prompted this response from the young alien girl.

"You're not mad…"

I guess it's not wrong for her to expect my usual disapproval. Heck, even I didn't expect to be amused instead of annoyed.

"Well, there's nothing for me to get mad at…" I rub the back of my neck, somewhat uneasy. I might just be getting used to her.

Suddenly, something apparently clicks inside her head as she leans over the table at me, "Did… did something happen!? Did you hit your head!? Or is it the problem with your emotions again!? OH NO!"

"Lala-san?" Belldandy's voice came from the kitchen, worried by the alien's sudden outburst.

I poke her forehead back with a deadpan expression, "Nothing's wrong, you idiot, calm down."

The alien girl stares for a moment and sits back, nodding her head, "If… you say so…?"

Then she went back to silently looking at me. She was even tilting her head, as if making sure I wasn't some random guy in a Hachiman suit. Which technically, isn't entirely wrong of her. Give me a break…

I release a sigh as a glorious plate of food is set before me, and the usual cup of heavenly coffee wasn't missing either. Ah! It's been like a whole day since I tasted Belldandy's food… Oh, right. I still have her bento… I didn't have enough time to get back to class and get it so my spoiled palate was subjected to the plebeian quality of Sobu's lunch food.

Well, I might as well save it for when I head to Usui's place. It can work as a breakfast, although it won't be as good as it should be by then.

Besides, I don't want to see Belldandy's disappointed face again if she were to discover I haven't eaten her bento. It's… a matter of principle… You know, because it's rude. Yeah…

"Thanks for the food."

Finally, I dug in as the goddess took a seat by my side. Damn, the food in school is nothing compared to this! Even that restaurant where Kasum— Utaha and I had breakfast was nowhere as satisfactory. The goddess has spoiled me…

"Oh, yeah," I made sure to swallow and wipe my mouth, "How were our guests after last night's phone call?"

"Harima-sama and Onizuka-sama were great company until I was called by Heaven. Komachi-sama let me know that they did leave once your parents arrived." Belldandy explains.

Geez, I forgot that girl's name was Onizuka too… I wonder if she and my substitute are related or if it's mere coincidence.

"They were really cool!" Deviluke comments cheerfully, "Hachiman has a lot of cool friends! Just like him!"

"Thanks, I guess," I say awkwardly.

Me, having cool friends? Me being told I'm cool by someone else!? Seriously, what is up with this world?

"So… Hachiman-san truly is leaving for three days…" I blink as I hear Belldandy mutter.

I knew it'd bother Deviluke because of how attached she is, but Belldandy?

"Ah! That's right! Hachiman is leaving for three whole days! To another city!?" She slams the table, my dish and coffee jostling at the impact.

"Oi, be careful," I scolded the girl's outburst. I don't want to spill anything here.

"You've been out of the house so much lately!" The alien whines, looking uncharacteristically serious, "I barely get to spend any time with Hachiman! And now you will be away for three days! And in another city!"

Belldandy glances between us nervously, and I only release a sigh, having expected this discussion to come sooner than later.

"It's not like I want to be over there or anything," I tried to reason with the alien.

Again, not a complete lie. They just don't need to know about…

Wait, why do I need to lie to them? Unlike the other people I know, these two aren't connected to anyone else. They have no attachment to the previous Hikigaya Hachiman either. They aren't the only ones but they also have no ties to anyone.

No, wait, there's Komachi and she knows Mikan, who's Yuuki's sister, etc., etc. Belldandy can't lie and might feel compelled to tell her, and Deviluke is… Well, she's a wild card. No, telling them isn't the smart thing to do. I don't want things to snowball.

"Ah, Yukihira-sama," The goddess finally speaks, and looks away. "His food was… one of a kind…"

Yeah, I'm sure that something that made you squeal had to be great. I sure wonder what tasting his food is like, but it's not like I minded giving it up on two separate occasions. Nope, not at all. Food? Who needs food? I'm fine not eating at all!

"Can't you say no?" Devilukes puffs her cheeks, "I need my daily dose of Hachiman!"

What kind of weird supplement is that?

"When I tried to, that guy whined that I should at least think about it," I snorted derisively at the memory, "Take my word for it. Guys like that don't take 'No' for an answer, so do your best to avoid them."

Source: A certain foxy kohai, and an equally-as-bratty sister.

"If Yukihira-sama asked for Hachiman-san's help, then it must be important. Komachi-sama told me they were childhood friends, and I'm certain he wouldn't trouble him if it wasn't necessary, Lala-san."

Of course, you would defend that guy despite that you only met him once. So Belldandy-like.

"That idiot called me before my class started," I pipe up, "I got lucky that I wasn't there yet or I'd gotten in trouble."

"Then take me with you, Hachiman!" I stare blankly at Deviluke's ridiculous request.

"Can't," I deny her without any hesitation, "I'm not there for fun, Deviluke. I'm there for a private event for that school, I doubt they'd appreciate me bringing in an outsider."

"But!"

"It's only three days, Deviluke," I try to placate the pinkhead by having her look at things rationally, "It isn't that long, and I'll be back by Saturday night, probably."

She leans towards me, "Probably!?"

Good grief, stop focusing on the little things. And don't scream, dammit.

"I don't know when it'll be over, just that Saturday is the last day," I defended with a grimace, "It might end too late into the night and I'll have to come back on Sunday morning."

Deviluke's gaze widens and she suddenly turns to the unsuspecting goddess, who yelped slightly at the sudden attention, "Are you okay with this, Belldy!?"

"Oh…" Her blue eyes move from her to me, only to return to her. Lips pursed, she averts her gaze away, "I don't think my opinion is necessary. Hachiman-san… he should be the only one making that call…"

"Belldy!" Her tantrum reminds me of times when a younger Komachi was particularly bratty.

"Hey, that's enough already," Onii-chan Mode takes over as I scold her again, "Getting mad isn't going to change that I'm leaving for these next few days."

Silence settles in the room as I focus again on my food, sensing their stares as I do.

"Sorry…" I stop a spoonful of food midway at Deviluke's faint voice.

Well, now… What's with this stifling atmosphere now? You don't need to look that sad, I'm not staying away permanently. Are you really so attached to me that me not being around ruins your mood?

Right, she was a lonely girl before coming here. And I might call it attachment, but this girl did confess to me. And she was adamant even after I questioned her feelings.

I sigh, racking my head to find words of comfort for the sullen girl, "Well, if you keep it at a minimum, I won't mind it if you call."

I'm such a sucker for sad girls…

Deviluke nods slowly, "Okay…"

"We will have plenty of time to spend together when he returns," Belldandy smiles warmly, looking at me from the corner of her eyes, "Right, Hachiman-san?"

Come on… Did you need to say it like that?

Taking the lifeline she threw at me anyway, I slowly nod, "Yeah…"

"…Okay…" Devilukes nods again.

And the silence followed again, and I took a final desperate shot in the dark to cheer her up.

"I'll see if I can bring you guys something from Tokyo."

Yes, no! What the hell was that promise!? My wallet is going to be gutted because I'll feel like I'll have to bring Komachi something too and not just these two!

And like magic, her eyes shine brightly, her mouth opening as her usual self seems to return.

"A gift from Hachiman?"

Belldandy seems as surprised, "Hachiman-san… there's no nee—"

And once again I find my personal space invaded as the alien quickly circles the table and hugs me from behind. Tightly.

"It's a promise, Hachiman!"

This situation reminds me so much of Komachi that I almost put my hand on her arm in reassurance. Almost. My instincts as an older brother nearly made me do something stupidly intimate.

"Yeah, yeah…" I sigh in exasperation as I let her hang on, "But no more complaining out of you or else you get a gumball."

"Okay, Hachiman!" She says and skips back to her seat.

And as I take a sip of heavenly coffee, which got a bit cool from the perfect temperature, Belldandy calls my attention.

"Ah! I'm sure you would like to know how my scout mission resulted, yes?"

I blink at that. With everything that's transpired, that particular matter had almost slipped my mind. I had intended to inquire about it with her, but I was unsure how to even broach the subject, especially considering the… 'celestial…' nature of her quest.

However, now that she'd raised the topic herself, I guess it's a good opportunity as any to explore it further.

"Is that alright?" I ask curiously and glance at the alien across from me. Did Belldandy talk to her about this stuff too?

Deviluke tilts her head in curiosity, "Oh, forgot completely to ask about that! Did something happen, Belldy?"

"You were already sleeping when I came back, Lala-san, so don't worry," She looks back at me, seriousness now etched on her face. "As informed by Heaven, there was in fact an anomaly near Mount Nokogiri. As I mentioned before, Yggdrasil's readings detected that it was similar in nature to the disturbance of Earth's magnetic field that the Synapse causes. However, once I arrived, the phenomenon felt very different…"

"Different how?" I ask as I slowly eat my food. Hey, I'm still hungry here, you knoooow.

"Usually, this sort of phenomenon feels like some sort of powerful energy concentrating in a particular area, yet what I felt was… well… It was energy of some sort, but it also radiated this inexplicable aura that made it very dangerous. It was hard to tell until I found its source."

Deviluke leans towards the goddess, "So what was it!?"

She puts a hand on her chin, a troubled expression on her face, "I… still couldn't tell… it was a creature I've never seen, nightmarish in appearance."

Furrowing my brows, I grudgingly piece together a grim conclusion, one that aligned with Belldandy's explanation, and I wish it didn't.

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 10 Section: Song 05

---

"A… monster?" I ask to confirm.

"That would be a good description, Hachiman-san," She bit her lip, "I recalled a legend used to scare young goddesses and gods about a universe with only one reality, regarded as the Forbidden Realm. It was said that evil gods and creatures reigned and rampaged in that reality, torturing all living creatures and making slaves of them."

What the hell? Now I have to worry about Lovecraftian horrors breaking into this reality?

"But you're alright?" I ask in concern, "You… said you saw the thing, right? It didn't attack you?"

She smiles, pink painting her cheeks, "I'm quite fine, Hachiman-san. This creature was no longer a threat when I arrived. It had been… neutralized…"

Wait, neutralized? I know there are a lot of supernatural aspects in this new reality compared to my 'Prime' world, but who could have the capabilities to slay the monster she spoke of?

"By whom!?" Deviluke asks in excitement. This is not a TV show like the ones you've been watching lately, quit that.

However, this did pique my interest, "Is that possible for someone from this world?" Either this world is more adept than I thought or some other higher power got involved for Earth's sake and beat Belldandy's people to the punch.

"I couldn't be sure how strong this monster was until I informed Heaven. And just as I thought, it was a creature from the legends given its unique, and dreadful characteristics. It shouldn't have been possible for a spawn from that cursed reality to reach any other as the Forbidden Realm had been sealed to prevent its evil influence from corrupting other realities… such as this one. It is certainly a worrisome matter."

"Is this about Heaven stuff?" The pink head inquires, looking more confused than trouble by this revelation. "So there's some scary baddies out there as strong as you?"

She nods her head, "They were sealed for a reason…"

This is a topic that's pretty beyond my understanding. Well, I'm sure no other human should know about this stuff so it's no wonder. Geez, Forbidden Realms, Lovecraftian horrors, differing realities… Just two weeks ago I was just worried about my clubmates and our relationships.

But… Deus Ex spoke about a calamity that would destroy the entire reality, and he said that just with our being here, Ayanokouji and I managed to delay it. Was he lying? Or was this something that he didn't take into account? Just because I want nothing to do with the game doesn't mean that whatever is coming to destroy this reality is any less real.

I can't imagine this Forbidden Realm won't be a possible threat in the future.

"The Dimensional Wanderer has entered this world, and his very presence has turned the wheels of fate more than I have anticipated."

Wait… I remember now, before he threw his tantrum and forcibly subjugated us in his realm, Deus Ex talked about a Dimensional Wanderer. Was this why that creature arrived so suddenly?

Deus Ex never specified whether the Wanderer was benevolent or malicious, just that their sole presence is affecting this reality. With a name like that, and Belldandy's description I wonder if the creature was the Dimensional Wanderer itself. But something so important that even Deus Ex treated its arrival with discretion couldn't have been killed off so easily…

So what's left?

"Did you manage to see who killed that monster?" Deus Ex already said that the Wanderer is an outlier to the world, so maybe…

"Indeed, I met the ones behind the demise of that creature, although I couldn't see them as they wore robes that concealed their form. I can at least attest they were humanoid. Two females and a male if their voices didn't deceive me."

Three of them? And humanoids? So even she couldn't tell what they were. As someone from Heaven, even if not actually divine, Belldandy is more knowledgeable about the universe from her status alone. If even she couldn't identify them and they were able to kill such a creature, then they're from something beyond her realm.

This doesn't necessarily confirm that one of those three people were the Dimensional Wanderer, but it does tell us that it was an outside force. I can only guess that they're more than likely what Deus Ex spoke about. Probably an 80% likelihood?

Occam's Razor would say that it was them for sure, but I should keep some options open. I don't want anyone pulling a: "You thought the Dimensional Wanderer was _, but it was, me, _!"

I couldn't take it.

"Guess they didn't leave a name to start their legend, did they?" I couldn't help but ask with a wry smirk.

"No, they didn't. Thankfully, they seemed to be good, but they warned me there was the chance of this happening again, and that we should prepare." She explained, "I can't believe I just came to confirm about the existence of the Forbidden Realm. This might be far worse than the angeloids's threat, Hachiman-san."

I only sigh tiredly as I rest against my chair.

"I don't envy your people trying to figure things out," I mutter dryly, "Well, who knows? Maybe they'll pop up again to stick their noses into things in the future, do-gooders that they are."

Deviluke laughs at that, "But, I've seen many scary creatures in other planet's ecosystems… very scary… so why is this such a big deal? I'm sure that with good weaponry, no meanie monster will survive. Besides, I've seen Daddy defeat monsters the size of this city!"

I huff at her statement, but don't say anything. Given her strength, I shouldn't be surprised that her people were strong enough to take on monstrous enemies that were beyond normal humans. Although, who the heck is your old man that he beat something as big as a city? Are you sure you guys aren't Saiyans?

Alas, as different as they are to mine, humans are still not comparable to outside forces. Our technology as a whole can't compete with aliens who traverse the stars as easily as you do, nor can we really be asked to fight off extra dimensional monstrosities.

"We couldn't establish the strength of the creature since these unknown strangers incinerated the body after they allowed me to see it. But I was told by Heaven that any creature that comes from the Forbidden Realm was exceedingly dangerous," With a hand resting on her chest, she added. "The fact that those strangers seemed to have handled it with unforeseen problems means that they are capable though."

"You just don't know who they are and what they're here for," I conclude for her.

What a discovery, an Eldritch realm that would make Junji Ito squeal in glee exists…

"If it wasn't for the Synapse interfering with Yggdrasil feeds over Earth, we could have tracked them, but now it is to no avail…" She looks away, resting a hand on her chest as if reminiscing, "But if I were to be honest, I sensed their goodwill and something… else… I've never felt before…" She directs her gaze at me, "I'm certain they are a force of good."

Well that's not much to go on. Even if she could sense that they weren't malicious, that wasn't enough to say that they were allies of justice.

"You shouldn't be so quick to say that," I calmly tell her as I return to my food, "Having good intent is all well and good, but that isn't proof of their inner character."

She stares at me for a moment and nods her head, albeit reluctantly, "Yes, Hachiman-san. I… shouldn't jump to any conclusion… I just hope I'm not mistaken…"

I keep myself from looking at the goddess with wide eyes.

She… agrees with me? That's a first. I was expecting the look of disapproval because of my cynical views and her being adamant about what she thought. I wonder if she felt if my disagreeing was undermining her.

Feeling slightly bad, I sigh, "It's not that I don't trust what you're saying, Belldandy. I just don't believe whoever those people are came here just to help. They have to have another purpose."

Deviluke turns to me, "What purpose might you say, Hachiman?"

"I don't know," I admit, "But I know they didn't show up purely out of the goodness of their hearts and without wanting something. Those sorts of people don't exist."

Deviluke drops her shoulders, looking slightly upset, "Yeah… I met plenty of people that claimed to be heroes from many other planets that fought for the peace of the entire galaxy, but all they wanted was to impress daddy so they could marry me!"

Doesn't that mean we could have all died if she wasn't around as an incentive? Scary.

Belldandy bites her lips, "I just… want to believe that people that seek justice and fight for good exist. We in heaven do."

"That can happen, I'm not saying good people don't exist," I explain, "But people who dedicate themselves to being good just for the sake of being good aren't possible. Everyone wants something, whether they realize it or not. It can be as small as self-validation, or as grand as glory, but wanting nothing in return? No way."

The goddess looks at me curiously, "What if someone wants the well-being of others? What does that make me?"

A question for the ages… Belldandy is someone who is honestly that caring of a person, but the thing is…

"You're a different case, Belldandy." I tell the goddess, "Your people are only here because of the Angels of Synapse, you told me as much. They're your priority, not the wish-granting. If they never broke away and began to torment humanity, could you really say that your people would be on our plane of existence granting mortal beings wishes?"

"Granting wishes is what we're allowed to do, and while on a lower priority in the face of the angeloid threat, we do so because we truly aim to help humanity," She breathes deeply before continuing, "If I could do more I would, but sadly, human history had proven many times that helping the wrong people and not allowing humans to better themselves wouldn't let humans to reach their true potential. This is the reason we now only grant wishes to people that suffer misfortune and lack the means to change it."

Is it that you want to help humanity or do you feel like you should pity them because of what the Angels of Synapse have done to them in the past. And do you also grant wishes to those outside of humanity in order to not appear like you favor us?

I keep the questions to myself though. They were too confrontational.

"You didn't answer my question," I point out, "Would the gods and goddesses of your Heaven be here, if the Angels of Synapse weren't?"

She looks at me in uncertainty, "I… wouldn't know…" She traces a finger on her lips, clearly lost in thought, "Heaven has watched over humanity for countless years… still…" She releases a sigh. "I… I understand your point, Hachiman-san, and it's completely understandable that you would doubt Heaven's intentions, but I only ask you to at least give us the benefit of the doubt…"

I smile wryly at her request.

"Well, I don't know about that when they're the ones that want to keep me under observation," I almost wince at her downtrodden expression from my words, "But… I'll do what I can. Just, keep what I said in mind in return."

We both stare at one another until a smile lights up her face, "I will, Hachiman-san… and thank you… for being so considerate…"

Deviluke pouts, "Belldy is gaining so many points with Hachimaaannnn… Not fair!"

Says who? As the official distributor of Hachiman Points, I can guarantee that no one gets more than their worth. Except for Komachi, she gets a score multiplier automatically.

"Try not to break my back next time then," I say with some humor.

She sticks her tongue out at me, "Hachiman is so stingy with his points!"

Belldandy giggles with a hand over her mouth while I huff. Then, I finish my food in a comfortable silence.

10-9

It didn't take me long to get my things ready for my outing. I wasn't sure what I was supposed to wear, so I packed two spare sets of my uniform and put the one I had for today to wash. Once it was done, I left it over the bed, ready to use.

After that, it was a matter of putting in other essentials. Toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, underthings, and Vita-chan 2.0 just in case.

It's a good thing the previous Hachiman had a suitcase hidden inside his disgusting closet. This time for sure, I will remember to destroy the contents inside when I return!

All in all, I only needed twenty minutes to gather everything. Usui said he was going to pass by after 8pm so I still had a half hour or so. I pondered bathing in the meantime, but Komachi did want to see me. And the imouto always takes priority.

Thus I stood before the door to her room and knocked on it.

"Komachi?" I called out to her.

I hear a small gasp come from inside, hurried steps following it. The door is opened slightly and a little sister of a Shy Nature appears! Where's my ultra ball before she uses teleport?

"Onii-chan…" She steps aside and opens the door completely, "C-come in…"

I nod at the invitation and head inside. Her room was the same as when Belldandy first arrived. Actually, this is the first time I've been inside her room properly since she was a kid back in my world.

She has a lot more shounen manga than I expected, her bookshelf is full of different series. Isn't that funny? The shyer Komachi has less shoujo romance than the one I knew.

"What do you need, Komachi?" I call out gently, once I see that she has gone silent again. Really, a timid and hesitant Komachi is not something I'm not used to.

She turns to me but lowers her head, twiddling her fingers. It still baffles me how different this Komachi acts to the one of my world… I'm not sure if I'll ever get used to this.

"A-ano…" She clearly is struggling to speak, and all I can do is be patient, "I-I know this is kind of sudden b-but… I've been meaning to ask you… something?" Her face flushes red and she raises her hands and waves them frantically. "U-u-unless that b-bothers you!"

"Not at all," I reassured her calmly, "Go ahead."

She nods her head twice, "O-okay…" Her eyes darted nervously from right to left, "I… wanted to k-know… if something… happened… lately… maybe?"

"A lot of things have been happening lately," I chuckle lightly.

Komachi shoots me a curious gaze, "I mean… about you… Onii chan… It's been days since you started acting… a little different…"

Not unexpected, but I didn't think she'd ask forthright.

"Different?" I frown in response, giving her my apt attention.

She scratches her cheeks, her eyes unable to remain on me completely. I guess I still intimidate her, "I… don't know how to put it…"

"Does it have to do with us?" I ask her so she can get her thoughts gathered together.

She drops her head slightly, and slowly nods her head. I could see clearly how nervous she was, her shoulders looked so stiff. I release a breath and rest my hand on her upper arm. I felt her flinch, but I gently rub my thumb against her shoulder in an effort to relax her.

"Hey, it's alright," My expression softens when she looks up at me, "I don't mind."

After staring at me for several seconds, she finally speaks.

"I think you're acting differently… not just with me, but with Okaa-san, Tou-san… Belldandy and Lala…" She looks to the side, "When you said you had an argument with Haru-san, I knew something was going on… but…" She finally raises her head, "But I think this isn't a bad change!"

I smile back at her, ignoring the casual nickname she has for Haruno.

"Your gomi-chan has a lot to make up for," I say with a chuckle, "He forgot about a lot of the important things in life and made you feel lonely, huh?"

Sure, she has a neighborhood friend that's not only a girl, but also of similar age. But with how poorly treated she was by the previous Hachiman, there was no way that she wouldn't feel lonely in this household before the newest tenants arrived, myself included. I can't pretend to treat her poorly, and I refuse to let any more harm come to her from my part, physically or emotionally. I don't know why or when this started, but I had no intention of continuing it.

She might not be my Komachi, but I'm still her older brother.

"So… Belldandy was right…" She muttered, yet I still picked up on that, "Is… this for real…?"

Her disbelief is completely understandable given how trash was my previous self. No more I'll allow that to continue. I'll give her the brother she never had.

"Yeah, it's real," I tell her and start tostling Komachi's hair. She shut her eyes, as if afraid for a second, but reluctantly opened them and for the first time looked directly at my face, my eyes. I stop messing with her hair, and place my hand on the side of her head with my thumb gently caressing her cheek. I gaze at her tenderly, as if reliving the times when she was younger.

"I'm sorry I made you wait so long, Komachi…"

Then I pull her towards my chest and embrace my little sister.

I could feel her tension in every muscle. She didn't respond, only remaining stiff, however, but eventually, she came to relax, little by little… until I felt her trembling arms slowly return my hug.

There were small sniffles coming from her, but she was stubbornly trying to keep them at bay.

I caressed her head and hugged her trembling body tightly, so she could know I'd protect her, that I wouldn't abandon her, that this time for sure she would have a big brother to count on. And I held to a small hope that if the previous Hikigaya returned to this body after I left that he'd realize it was better to look out for Komachi than to antagonize her.

---

Go to profile, SEE: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 10 Section: Picture 02

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 10 Section: Song 06

---

"I love you, Komachi," I whisper words that I felt from the bottom of my heart.

With that, her waterworks truly started, in which I could feel all her accumulated pain, her helplessness and… her relief. She was letting it all out, and I swore to myself that I wouldn't move until she did.

The previous Ha— no… I owed her this, and much, much more.

She was my responsibility, and as long as I remained in this world, my family.

That much was certain.

Seconds passed… minutes passed as her sobs continued, slowly fading and fading until we remained just there, in silence and embracing one another. Komachi sniffled slightly but eventually, she raised her head. Her eyes were red and glistening, with tears still streaming down her face.

"I love you too, Onii-chan…"

I smile warmly, "Onii-chan is here for you now, Komachi."

And for the first time, she smiles cheerfully at me, no trace of fear or uncertainty in her features. It is just the smile that Komachi from my world has given me many times.

I knew just then that Komachi had shown me the sign that she truly trusted me.

Despite that she technically wasn't my sister, given the interdimensional crap Deux Ex Machina pulled, I just… couldn't help feeling a rush of relief and, maybe happiness filling my whole being. This was the first time I felt this sense of accomplishment… and it was for something that I possessed back in my world.

That saying was truthful, huh…? We really don't know what we have until we lose it.

I blink at a creaking sound coming from the door, drawing my attention and making me realize there were a couple of spies behind it. Expected one, but not the other…

"Why don't you try recording it?" I growled out, breaking off from Komachi a little bit. "It'll last you longer."

This was a private affair, you nosy lot. I know my privacy is practically nonexistent but I at least expected that Komachi's would be respected. I should have known that Deviluke would get intrusive about this because she has shown herself to be protective of Komachi, but I would have at least thought that Belldandy would have left things alone and not have eavesdropped.

The thought that they possibly didn't trust me with my own sister bothered me more than it should have.

Belldandy is quick to bow her head, as if apologizing, "I'm very sorry, Hachiman-san. W-we didn't mean to be intrusive…"

Deviluke scratches her cheek with a guilty smile, "It was not on purpose! I-I mean, I was a bit worried about Komachi so I couldn't help myself. So this is my fault! Belldy tried to stop me and I ended up dragging her here, so don't get mad at her!"

"Lala-san…"

"Good grief," I gave Komachi's shoulder one last affectionate squeeze, "At least you three will have a topic for your girl talk once I leave."

"Yeah, Onii-chan…" She drops her head, "Wish you didn't have to go now…"

"Yeah, I'll be sure to hit Yukihira for ruining things," I joke with humor in my voice before asking, "Do you want anything from Tokyo?"

Her face lightens up, "A-anything you want, Onii-chan!"

"Don't forget about us, Hachimaaaaaan!" She approaches and hugs me, "Are you going to leave already!? Stay a little bit longer!"

"Oh my…" Belldandy looks troubled as she rests a hand on her cheek, "But honestly, I also wished Hachiman-san could stay longer… with us…"

G-geh…

I'm being tripled teamed by three absolutely Moe-Ultimates here and they were all criticals… Stop, stop! I'm already dead!

Shyness wells within me as I avert my gaze from the three girls. Neither of you are playing fair at all, dammit…

"Ah, well, it can't be helped…" I murmured, not looking at any of them to keep from losing my composure, "Usui said he'd come by at this time."

"Not fair!" Whines Deviluke, refusing to let me go. What are you, a koala?

Ah, speaking of someone coming by soon. There's still Haruno to worry about, huh? The thought of her being around Belldandy and Deviluke is terrifying, I don't know how she'll take them. She doesn't regard others as threats, as she looks down on just about anyone. So her potential interactions with Deviluke could actually hurt the poor alien. Especially if Haruno spills about the previous relationship she had with my previous self.

I should totally warn them.

"By the way," I began, unsure as to how to address this without it being too obvious. "Someone I know will probably visit while I'm away."

I pause for a second, and glance at Komachi, "It's a… family friend…"

Komachi blinks twice, her mouth hanging open for a second as realization hits. It was so easy to see how fast she realized who I meant. She nods her head at me.

"Are… things okay?" She hesitantly asks.

Okay in a very loose usage of the term, I suppose…

"They're better…" I try to assuage her, "Anyway, when Haruno visits, you have to keep things under wraps while I'm gone."

Deviluke seems thoughtful, "Hachiman has a lot of friends… So who is it?" She exchanges a glance with my little imouto, "Oh! Is that the one that is a childhood friend of Hachiman?"

The thought of being childhood friends with Haruno is terrifying.

"Something like that," I answer cryptically, knowing it was more than just friendship between my other self and the Yukinoshita scion.

"I… I assume we should still conceal our true identities," Belldandy presses a hand on her chest, and it is clear she very much dislikes having to lie about their origins. Gotta admit that her bringing that up proves that she truly wants to keep us out of trouble. "Isn't it?"

"Yeah" I rub the back of my head, "And without me here to lie for you two, you need to make sure your stories are airtight. That woman is sharp and probing. She will pick apart anything she holds in doubt. And trust me, she won't believe the truth even if she pries it out of you."

Not without displays that show their origins, and that's not something that should be out in public.

The trio nodded at that, Deviluke grasping my hand now, much to my glaring discomfort. I swear that her displays of affection are getting too frequent… and far more intimate… She seemed completely unconcerned that Komachi and Belldandy could see it!

"Are you sure I can't come, Hachiman?" Ugh… she never gives up, "I'll behave, I promise!"

"We already talked about this, Deviluke," I release a sigh, getting free of her grasp. "I'll be back in a few days so… make sure you all take care… you know, in the meantime… I'll see you all soon enough, alright?"

A chorus of affirmatives answers my request and I glance at their smiling faces out of the corner of my eye.

Geez, I never put any thought into it but saying goodbye, even when briefly, is pretty hard to do. They mattered and were important. I acknowledged that even if Komachi was furthest ahead, not seeing any of them for the next three or so days is going to feel weird. I've never been away from people who were important for long, mostly because I lacked anybody important for most of my life who wasn't Komachi and because I avoided excursions before my second-year in Sobu. These next three days, I'll be on my own with Usui as the only person I was somewhat acquainted with.

How long has it been since I was honestly on my own? At least when I first arrived, I had familiar faces around me to latch onto even if they were fundamentally different people. Now I'll be going to Tokyo and spending time with nothing but strangers. Should be fun, eh?

I wonder…

10-10

"Well, you sure are popular, Hikigaya," A certain easygoing voice first greets me as I exit my house, "You have your own little party to see you off."

I looked up to see the blonde pretty boy with his usual teasing smile as he leaned against the fence outside my gate, but I was surprised to see that he wasn't alone. In front of him were three of my neighbors, Yuuki, Mikan, and Aikawa. Well, I hadn't seen them much for a while, except for Mikan since she was occasionally around these last few days.

I find my gaze lingering on the young girl for a few moments. There was no symbol floating above her so no piercing headache to accompany such a discovery. She… wasn't part of the game… I felt a modicum of relief that such a young girl was spared from being a suspect. If the women in my house were burdened with being dragged into my problems, at the very least Mikan deserves to remain out of it.

"What is this?" I finally ask before anyone comments on my silence.

"Yo, Hachiman!" Aikawa raises a hand, "Heard you were leaving."

"We came to say goodbye before you leave," Adds Yuuki while scratching the back of his head.

"We're hardly going to be gone for long," I pointed out idly as I walked up to the group, "Guess Yukihira told you about that?"

Mikan approached and folded her arms, "Haa-chan, were you planning to leave without telling me?"

For all she tried to look intimidating, all she did was look cute.

My older brother instincts automatically kicked in and I ruffled her hair, "Don't be mad, I didn't want to bother you."

Yuuki chuckles, "Man, I wished Mikan treated me like he does with you, haha," He looks at Usui after his comment, "I can already imagine all the girls in Tokyo going after you, Usui-sensei!"

"Can you speak using the Japanese language, Short-kun?" Usui's smile looked false before he added with his usual teasing wit, "I can't understand you at all~"

What a way to stave off that topic, I'll give him that.

Ah, right. This guy's appearance outshines Hayama's so he'll be the center of a lot of people's attention. Usui must be focused about the game if he not only was willing to leave the girl he likes behind, but he's willingly subjecting himself to the amount of attention he'll get from other people.

Well, with me next to him, his natural magnetism will be balanced out by my natural repellant.

"C'mon Rito, we've seen him ignoring tons of hot babes, so he's probably not interested in that stuff. I feel him," Aikawa rests a hand on the brunette's shoulder. "I mean, dealing with floods of girls must be really annoying. I'm sure he doesn't have any relaxing days because of that."

An astute observation right there. The paradox of the riajuu does exist within Usui because he's said that he doesn't enjoy the clamoring that experienced since leaving his home estate. Suffering from success does exist, it seems.

Usui doesn't comment, but simply smiles back. It doesn't reach his eyes, but it seems to say "Probably." a good indicator that he wouldn't talk about it anyway. Kind of a stark difference compared to how affable he was back on Saturday. Then again, he was talkative in order to keep attention off me or give me offhand information I could take note of.

I recall our talk in the park. Right, he had no interest in these two at all or Aki for that matter. The only ones in the group that held some of his interest were Yukihira and my previous self, Harima probably didn't count since Usui thoroughly enjoys teasing him and just that. And if I asked, the blonde might say that Harima was like a chew toy to him or something.

Before the atmosphere plunged into an awkward silence, I interjected.

"Yukihira would probably complain if we got distracted in Tokyo instead of cooking with him."

"So, are you ready, Hikigaya-kun?" Usui finally speaks, but his face only oozes boredom.

I nod my head, "Got the basic stuff."

I looked down only just realizing that I had been idly patting Mikan's head the entire time. Damn my older brother instincts! She wasn't even my little sister!

"Haa-chan!" She shoves my hand away, but I can see her small smile, "My hair looks like a mess now… dummy…"

Yuuki laughs, "C'mon Mikan, it's not like it was any different before, haha."

She glares at him, making him sweat drop, "Shut it, Rito! Like you would notice…"

And just like that, Mikan began to verbally tear into Yuuki, who was the older one… Not exactly the usual image of how siblings get along. Not that I'm one to talk… Although my Komachi would at least be smiling brightly as she calls me a trash brother.

Wait, now I'm not sure which is worse…

I exchanged a glance with Usui, who seemed the image of what utter boredom could mean. I get it, I get it, Pretty Boy. He really doesn't want to spend any more time around others than he has to. And he's surprisingly blatant about it as well.

I should cut through the reprimand Mikan was giving to her older brother, and bail the shorter boy out of his predicament.

"Why don't you sleep over with Komachi tonight?" I suggest to the young girl, "Just take it easy on all the gossip about me, alright?"

Mikan smirks knowingly, "Everyone has the right to gossip all they want, but it's not like I would care what people say about you."

And again, a response no one would expect of someone her age. If she were older, my heart might have fluttered.

I chuckle lightly, "How reliable…"

"Well, good luck out there, dudes," Aikawa says while resting an arm over Yuuki's shoulders. "We'll watch over the neighborhood while you're gone Hachiman, no worries."

"Y-yeah…" Adds a recovering Yuuki, "Have a great trip guys."

Usui merely nods his head, while I say, "Will do."

Mikan tilts her head, as I turn to her, "Souvenir."

What, her too? Did she somehow find out that I have a pending job and is here to take full advantage? Geez… My poor wallet's going to hate me…

"Any requests?" I ask, somewhat exasperatedly. I'm not going to guess what a girl like her likes. Although Isshiki would probably say that it's on the man to already know what a girl wants. Whatever gift of foresight males supposedly have, I don't.

"Surprise me," She giggles. I'm doomed.

"Well, if there's someone that knows her tastes, that would be you, Hachiman," Yuuki comments with a grin. Aren't you supposed to be her older brother, how could I have overtaken you!? How could you let me eclipse you!? Where's your pride as an Onii-chan!?

Talk about no pressure…

"Hachimaaaaaaan!" A certain call echoed behind us.

Ah, I was thinking things were going too well so far…

I told Deviluke to not leave the house, but whatever, everyone here has seen her already.

Yuuki becomes red, Aikawa becomes rather tense, and Usui looks at her in curiosity. Belldandy appears behind her, with the same ashamed expression she sported when they spied Komachi and me. I can guess Belldandy tried to stop her again to no avail.

I let it go this time since this conversation wasn't private. Although I still flex some of my sarcasm.

"Should I look into buying a camera for you two?" There's no real bite to my dry question, really, I sounded bored more than anything else.

Belldandy drops her head, her face flushing red, "I-I'm so sorry, Hachiman-san…"

Deviluke puffs her cheeks, "Why are you apologizing again, Belldy!?"

"Oh dear…" I facepalm at the flustered goddess's lack of response. This is devolving into a comedy skit now.

I sigh and hang back as greetings are exchanged between the others. Once it got around to Usui, he was a bit clipped although no one but me noticed. Was he getting annoyed? Ah, he probably wanted to know what my deal was when I saw Ayuzawa earlier. So even he gets anxious about things, huh?

"Say, shouldn't we get going already?" Usui appears as easy going as usual, but it feels forced now, "Unless Hikigaya wants me to stay in his room instead~"

His joking has even escalated compared to usual. Typically he reverses what I say to him back at me, not jumping the gun. Or at least, not this severely.

"Right," I nod back at him. It wasn't late, but we'll probably have a lot to talk about.

"What, is this the reason why he rejects all the girls!?" Yuuki says out loud. "He swings that way!?"

"Whaaaat!?" Deviluke grabs my arm, "I saw a show about men marrying two days ago! I didn't know that was possible… so… so…. you like men, Hachiman!?"

"Hell no," How the hell did she come to that conclusion!?

"What's wrong, Short-kun?" Suddenly an aura of flowers appears behind the blonde idiot, "Are you excited at the prospect?"

Yuuki immediately blanches. Well, at least he didn't blush while denying it. That'd just be adding fuel to the fire.

And as I turn my gaze to the street, my sight spots a long black vehicle approaching, one I have seen not so long ago. I do however notice a subtle stiffening coming from Usui although he keeps his expression leveled. I could guess who it was, but was he paranoid about being noticed by someone from a rich background?

The limousine parks just in front of my house, and note even a second passes as a familiar purple-haired, dagashi maniac, Shidare Hotaru, exits the vehicle.

My full attention is however drawn to the now familiar mark over her head, which disappears several seconds later. I managed to rein in the pain this time, keeping my face almost unresponsive… Although my eyebrows twitched slightly and I curled and uncurled my fists repeatedly.

Of course, Belldandy sensed my distress, shooting me a worried gaze, which I waved off upon noticing it. The other seemed unaware, more focused on the newcomer. Surprisingly, I didn't feel the blonde idiot's eyes on me either. That's odd.

"Oh…" Shidare says, her weird blue eyes gawking at us, "Didn't expect such a welcome party. I was here a couple of days ago, you know? That would have been a good time for this."

I sigh, "Farewell party, more like…"

Can't really blame her for reaching that conclusion though. It's the second time I see this girl using a limousine, so I can guess she's rich or something, and there are probably a lot of people greeting her whenever she goes. I guess. That's how those TV shows with ojous go, right?

She blinks and she approaches, "Wait, who is leaving?" Her eyes land on the bag hanging from my shoulder, "Wait, are you leaving!? Where!? Why? I brought more candy, you know!?"

"Us. Yeah. Tokyo. Yukihira. Can't eat them, sorry." I accomplish the lightning round without a beat. Yosh! That's twice now, I'm on a roll!

She frowns, "Us? Am I going too?"

Not the sharpest tool in the shed, eh?

I shake my head with a deadpan, "Not you. This guy." Then I gesture to my side.

Shidare turns to Usui and her eyes widen slightly. Then she goes silent.

Everyone exchanges glances at her sudden hush, myself included. Was she taken aback by his good looks or something?

Yuuki stares at Usui's back in awe and respect while Aikawa seems to hold a knowing "Here we go again…" look in his eyes. The remaining girls were mostly confused and looked at one another in question. But it wasn't like Shidare was enamored, there wasn't a flush on her face, really she just looked like a deer caught in the headlights.

Curious, I peered over at my blonde companion. I paused as I saw him stare back at Shidare almost as shellshocked as she was. Was she someone he knew? She's the daughter of some bigshot candy company, could she know who Usui was and have met him once before?

Once Usui notices my gaze, he cools his expression into an unreadable one. Questions for later, I suppose.

"Yeah," I nod, drawing attention back to myself. "Yukihira wanted us to help him with some cooking competition."

Shidare blinks and shakes her head, finally out of her stupor, "Oh, Yukihira Souma…" She smirks, giving some steps around, "I see, I see…" She leans dangerously close to me, "So when you see him…" She twirls a finger just before her face, "Can you remind him of my offer?"

I pull back, not appreciating this breach of personal space.

An offer? For Yukihira? Now what could that entail coming from a dagashi-crazed girl like her?

I nod anyway, "Sure. But we have to get going already."

Deviluke holds Shidare's arm, "Brought some new candy, Hotaru?"

I cock an eyebrow at the familiarity, and then, my surprise fades instantly. This is Deviluke after all, she's overly friendly with everyone so I can assume she talked to her when Shidare came to visit me when I was outside. Probably…

"Keep it to a minimum," I pipe in before Shidare gets excited, and fix the bag hanging on my shoulder. "It's a school night, and Mi-chan and Komachi can't stay up too late."

Belldandy nods her head, "Don't worry, Hachiman-san. Komachi-sama is very responsible, so I'm certain she will know when to go to sleep."

I nod my head in understanding before my gaze sweeps across the group, Usui is unexpectedly looking impatient. Well, I suppose that's what his overly bland face means, I guess.

"Well, I'll see you guys in a few days then." I say my farewell lamely, "Er, take care in the meantime."

The goddess nodded her head, Mikan just stared at me, Deviluke puffed her cheeks, Shidare just smiled, though I could tell she was thinking about something else entirely… It was kinda creepy. Aikawa and Yuuki just grin and nod as my companion and I finally walk away.

10-11

"Done with your sulking then?"

We were in a parking lot of a mini-mart at the moment, a bit ways off from my house but not too far either. We spent our walk here in relative silence which is what prompted my inquiry. Usui mentioned that he'd buy some stuff since his fridge was empty, so I waited outside for him to do his thing.

A childish pout greeted my inquiry, but the blonde didn't voice any complaints. Unlike the others, he doesn't have anything to say to turn things around on me unless I dig myself a hole beforehand. This opportunity was probably as rare as a shiny encounter for anyone else.

But now that he was in less of a poor mood, I figured I should let the cat out of the bag already.

"She is part of the game," I figured I should be forthright about it, "Sorry."

I didn't have to expand, he knew what I was talking about. Or more specifically, who I was talking about.

Usui doesn't say anything although his initial surprise gives way to a dark expression. I had to keep myself from flinching since I was the one subjected to that look.

"…How do you know this?" When he's serious, he's a lot more reserved and that much more intimidating. An outlook I've seen somewhere else, but I can't recall where.

Slowly, I explain about the symbol and its purpose as well as the new rules connected to it. Really, speaking about it out loud makes me think that I'm crazy. I'm not sure how it is that he managed to believe me and not just send me to an insane asylum.

"That's why I looked in pain after seeing her," I clarified what took place in his school, "Same thing happened with Shidare, even if I was less obvious. I don't know why, but every time I see a symbol, I get hit by a bad migraine. Sometimes it's manageable, other times, it takes me aback just how painful it is."

Usui was leaning against a light pole by this point, silent as he took in everything I told him. The grip on his book bag and the groceries' bag was notably strong, which was another sign of his… well… displeasure with the revelation.

"…What will you do?" He finally asked me.

That was a loaded question if I ever heard one. I can just feel the underlying threat for me to choose my next words carefully.

"I'll have to figure out whether or not if they're that time god's creation," I slowly say, taking care not to set the blonde off.

"And what happens if one of them is this creation?" I knew he didn't care for my dodge, nor does he care if Shidare is the created being, it's Ayuzawa that he's focused on. He's almost glaring at me now, no wait, he's totally glaring at me. Scary, Pretty Boy, you're scary!

However, I couldn't let him scare me. Besides, I had already made my decision.

Since I defied Deus Ex Machina, unwilling to submit to his disgusting game, I've been thinking on how to proceed, on what my goal would be. I could very well be renouncing my previous life, but I refuse to win the game at the cost of my integrity, and more importantly, by selfishly taking the life of a person for my benefit.

I'm not a killer, and I won't become one.

So, should I just live my life in this world and pretend the game doesn't exist?

That's a resounding NO.

I wasn't sure before, but there is much more to this game that Deus Ex Machina had let on. If the destiny of the world was doomed, why give us a choice? Why waste any time? Or is this an illusion of choice? Something is missing, this may end up being just a hunch, but I'm certain that god of time has something else in mind.

Whatever it is, I cannot afford to just be a spectator.

I won't play his game, but I can't ignore it either. After all, letting Ayanokouji win could spell disaster for me, and there's no way I'll stand idly by while he kills the creation and I'm left behind.

I look directly at my blonde companion, and he frowns upon whatever face I was making.

"Then I'll have to make sure she's safe, whoever it winds up being," I tell him my honest intent, "Ayanokouji is still a threat."

My words knock the dark expression from the blonde's face as he looks in utter shock, "…Why?"

I contemplate my answer. I did want to defy the time god and not dance to his tune, but that was just my shallow level of thought. In all honesty, I just couldn't kill any of the females I've come across. But that wasn't the main reason, that just added onto why I refused to participate in the game.

"I… can't kill someone, created or not," I slowly admit, "And this isn't just for the girls that look like the ones I knew in my world, it's for the rest of the ones I met here too. I wouldn't be able to live with myself after sacrificing one of their lives just so I can go back to mine…"

Silence comes after I say that.

"I didn't ask to be brought here," I speak up once again, "But I also don't want to condemn this world's destruction because of my indecision either. "

I ball my hands into a fist and take a breath.

"Deus Ex Machina could have simply forcibly converted Ayanokouji or I to his cause, he's capable as much and disregarded us enough to do so, but he didn't. He didn't even need to summon the both of us. Instead he's wasting his time with this stupid farce of a game in order to choose his heir when he doesn't have to, that has to mean something. Wouldn't a god determined to protect his reality do what he has to as quickly and effectively as possible? He doesn't have any humanity to weigh him down, this game proves it since he's playing with lives outside of the ones he summoned. There has to be something that keeps him from doing that."

These were doubts that always floated in my head whenever I thought of the game. Before I would just disregard them because I was determined to go through with it, but now? Things were different.

"…And what if you're wrong?" Was Usui's simple question, no doubt not expecting everything I divulged, "What happens if the catastrophe you spoke of comes because of this choice?"

And they're not stupid questions. If I'm wrong does that mean I'll brand myself as an immoral hypocrite and kill the creation in order to save my own skin after digging myself into that hole? But Usui didn't ask in concern of my moral dilemma, he asked it for one clear reason. Would I be a threat to the woman he valued more than anything else in the world if I had no choice but to win the game?

Well, if I ever reach that point, I'll already hate myself well and good by then…

"…I'll willingly inherit his position if I haven't found a way to change things by then."

I don't want to play god with my choices here, and I see the bitter irony in that. If Deus Ex's claims are true, then Ayanokouji and I hold a great weight of power when it comes to deciding the fate of the world, if not all of existence in this reality. If I refuse to participate in the game, it's my responsibility to uncover the truth of this situation and possibly find another solution to keep reality intact. If I fail, the burden should fall on me and not the potential victim, nor Ayanokouji so long as he remains participating in the game like normal.

I understood that my sacrifice would hurt others, but that would be the price I pay if I let the catastrophe come without doing anything about it. Although, I don't want it to reach that point.

I relay all of this to Usui, choosing to be completely honest with the only ally I have in this world. He takes a few moments to absorb everything I said, finally he nods solemnly.

"I see. You've chosen a much harder path than before, Hikigaya-kun." Usui's expression is unreadable before it melts into exasperation. "Hehh… I've gotten involved with such a complicated individual. Is it too late for me to take back helping you out?"

The teasing inflection in his voice is obvious, the amused look on his face even more so. Because of that, I couldn't help but laugh as relief coursed through me. The fact that I felt relief, caused me a vast amount of surprise.

"Sorry, but you're stuck with this fake from now on," I say with some wryness, "Unless you want to take a chance with one of Deviluke's memory devices?"

"Well, I do like this new Hikigaya-kun much better than the old one," He chuckles back, "Plus, I think I've had my fill of memory manipulation already."

I look at him in confusion, but he simply shakes his head in an easygoing manner. Ah, an inside joke, is it?

With a silent gesture, we start walking again in silence. It's a peaceful one that I can enjoy because I feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders by talking to him. Idly, I wonder if this is what it's supposed to be like to have friends. I don't think we can call ourselves that after less than a week of knowing each other; our alliance is one of circumstance if anything, but if this is somewhat akin to what actual friendship entails… I wouldn't be averse to it.

We reached an intersection, apparently, three more blocks to reach his place, but as usual, what should have been a normal trip there became the opposite. The reason being? A certain pink-haired girl walked towards us from down the street. And it wasn't the extra-terrestrial princess either.

Gasai Yuno.

A mark glowed over her head, confirming she was a suspect in the game, much to my displeasure. I hoped that she wouldn't be one, so I could save myself the trouble, but of course, lady luck didn't smile upon me.

The pain was now becoming sort routinary, but my annoyance may have made it less painful.

What was she doing here? I doubt her suddenly being here is a coincidence. Did she somehow hear about my trip to Tokyo? Tch, I should have expected that regularly messaging her when she reaches out wasn't enough for this woman…

Once a stalker, always a stalker.

"Do you know her?" I hear Usui quietly ask as she nears. Although, I could tell that he noticed the brief headache I had and the recognition once I saw her.

"She's dangerous," I mutter out with a nod before she reaches us, "Don't underestimate her."

It takes only a short while for her to finally acknowledge our presence.

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 10 Section: Song 07

---

"H-Hachi!?" She blinks twice, as if surprised.

Naturally, I'm skeptical about it, given our past interactions, but I ultimately decide that accusing her wouldn't be the wisest move. I should approach this subtly.

"Gasai," I greet simply, "This is surprising."

"Why are you here?" is basically what you can infer with my question.

She looks to the sides nervously, "U-um… I-I live a-around here!"

A likely story…

"Is that so?" I curtly ask, "I hadn't realized."

The suspicion in my tone was subtle, but it was there.

"It's… i-it's the truth!"

"She lives here," Usui surprisingly confirms, looking interested in our interaction. "I've seen her before in this neighborhood."

"Yeah…" She nods, her nervousness replaced by a sudden blank expression. She stared at Usui for a moment, before turning to me. "Friend of yours, Hachi?"

My blonde companion cocked an eyebrow at her rapid change, but only shot me a glance in response.

"Something like that," I tell the girl before gesturing to my blonde companion, "This is Usui Takumi." Then I gesture at her for him, "She's Gasai Yuno."

"…" Usui nods in greeting, but observes the girl with an unreadable expression for a moment, then becomes more relaxed, "How cruel, Hikigaya. Aren't we close enough to at least be friends?"

Gasai steps up to him, much to my surprise, "Do you like him?"

Usui looks down at the girl and smiles suavely, not intimidated in the slightest, "I guess you can say that~"

Her eyes, devoid of any light remain fixed on his face. I don't understand what her deal is with him all of a sudden.

"Hachi doesn't live here, so why is he here? It's getting late," Even her voice is hollow now, what the heck!?

"Who knows?" Usui responds no less amused, "Isn't that business between Hikigaya-kun and I?"

She tilts her head slightly, "When you said you liked him, is it in a romantic manner? Because he has me already."

And who decided that, woman? Did you think after Saturday, I'd let you make that call? Recalling my role with her, I send the unstable girl a warning glare.

She blinks and averts her gaze, but it seems it was too late already, given how amused Usui looked now. Geez…

"Really?" Usui puts on a show of feigned surprise, "I wonder how it is that none of us have heard of you if you're that important?"

Damn… that was a direct hit with true damage…

Her eyes widen, her expression signaling she has come to realize it. She turns to me, expectation clear on her features, but like the previous time, she averts her gaze, as if in shame.

"Well, you don't have to worry about me, Gasai-chan," Usui suddenly grins at the girl, "Hikigaya already rejected me as a friend~"

This guy…

Thinking that I should ease up on her now that Usui has established himself, I finally decide to speak. She's a suspect, and one that I should also look into. Just because I don't like her, and the fact that she has very little sanctitude towards other people's lives doesn't mean I won't keep her safe either. Do unto others or however that line goes.

"He's already spoken for," I grunt out while sending a dry look the blonde's way. Turning back, I tell the girl, "I'm spending the night with him since we're heading to Tokyo tomorrow."

I choose to tell her the truth now because I don't need her overreacting once I leave. Plus, I don't want her getting the idea that I was afraid of her, even if I was somewhat intimidated by what she could do if set off. If it wasn't for the emotional wipe, I wouldn't even be capable of conversing with her here even if it led to unintended consequences. This woman was dangerous because of what she was capable of and her lack of hesitation to do anything.

And I still couldn't deny the fact that I held some suspicions about her being that serial killer I heard about. She said she wasn't, but I can't really trust her word, can I?

She lets out a small gasp, "H-Hachi is going to Tokyo!? W-what happened?" She looks at me, concerned. She has such a pronounced duality to her character, it's almost fascinating.

"I guess you can call it a favor for Yukihira," I tell the girl, omitting my usual begrudging snark. I don't want to take the chance of her taking it too seriously.

"Ah… That childhood friend you have, the one that is a cook, right?"

I raise an eyebrow. Of course she knew about him, but was it a good idea to say that in front of company? I could see a smug glint shine in Usui's eye, so I quickly spoke up before he started playing with fire again.

"Yeah," I nod at her, "We're going to be at his academy for the next three days. It's a competition, apparently."

She clearly didn't like that, but at least she showed her displeasure with just a frown, instead of her creepy emotionless facade. That's good, she's learning… slowly and I bet she'll forget this in due time, so I'll have to work on that so she stops going yandere mode every time she thinks she found an obstacle to her unreasonable attachment to me.

"You don't need to worry about Hikigaya-kun, Gasai-chan~" A certain playful voice cuts in as my taller companion places a hand on my shoulder, "He's dutiful enough to keep in touch~"

She turns to him, "You… are… nice…" She nods to herself, "Do you think… Hachi would let me go to Tokyo too?"

She's asking him directly despite the fact that I'm in front of her. What is she trying to pull?

"I can't say," He shrugs with the same easygoing smile, "Totsuki Academy is closed off to the public, so he'd probably tell you that you would be wasting your time."

That's… way too close to what I would have said… Oi, are you sure you aren't one of those espers with psychic powers?

"I suppose that makes sense. Totsuki is an elite academy…" She bites her lip, "I won't be able to help Hachi if something happens to him…"

She's still on that? I'm not in so much danger that I need you hovering over me. Sure I'm going to be meeting Ayanokouji soon, but I don't think he'll do anything…? Damn, I actually don't know… I openly declared that I was going to defy the game in the cathedral in the morning. I have no idea

how he'll respond now that I'm basically going to be an active obstacle as he plays the game. If that terrifying look in his eye that he sometimes gets is a good indicator, that means he's someone to watch out for.

Shit, I'm going to have to be careful in Tokyo.

"There's nothing to worry about," I blink as Usui smiles smoothly and an aura of pleasantry is exuded by him, "But if it means so much to Gasai-chan, I can keep an eye on Hikigaya-kun, kay~?"

He winks in a casual manner as if to emphasize his lack of worry. I didn't take him for an actor, especially not one this good. What else can this guy do?

"You… will?" She asks in disbelief, "For real? You'll do that for me?"

"There's no harm," He huffs in amusement.

Figures that he'd act his most friendliest with a mentally unstable girl, emphasis on 'act.' He no doubt noticed her earlier antagonism and decided to ham it up to avoid it in the future.

Gasai takes out her phone and looks directly into his eyes, "Can we exchange contacts? In case I can't reach Hachi…"

Usui looks on in silence before pulling out a flip phone. How old-fashioned, then again I took him as a utilitarian. Don't see him mindlessly playing with his phone.

"I don't see why not," He smiles like a kid in a candy store, "I'm interested in getting along with Gasai-chan from now on~"

The pinhead lets out a giggle, "Of course! I also want to get along with Hachi's friends! He told me I should, so I'll do my best to please him!"

"Uh huh…" Usui shoots me a knowing, subtle glance, "Such a caring person~"

What the hell was going on? Unlike the pretty boy, it didn't feel like Gasai was acting a specific role. It was jarring to see her act, well, normally… If you took away her unstable antics, she came off as a regular high school girl.

Gasai stares at her phone with a smile before turning to me, "Alright, Hachi! I'm sure everything will be okay! Can I… can I call you later?"

I contemplate my answer for a moment before eventually sighing, "As long as it's not too late. I need to wake up early tomorrow."

She nods happily, "Of course, Hachi! I'll be going then!" She turns to the blonde, "Usui, take good care of him!"

"Hai~" Comes Usui's gleeful response, "Take care, Gasai-chan."

She steps back playfully, spinning gracefully as she holds her phone to her chest, "Yes! Have a great trip! Teeheehee!"

I raise my hand lamely to bid her farewell as she skips away from us, turning around the corner. Looks like her leg healed up fine. Anyway, this is the last thing I expected when encountering Gasai, but I suppose it's fine since this will keep her crazy wits under control for the time being.

Once she was out of sight, the warm expression on Usui's face quite literally died. He's good at keeping up facades when he wants to, isn't he? I figured he was more transparent.

"Who is that girl?" He looks at me with a serious expression, "Do you know?"

"She's not someone new, if that's what you're asking," I blew a cloud mist into the cold air, "Apparently she was biding her time for him but got me instead."

"Sounds like there's a story behind that," He states casually as he starts walking, me following his lead.

I couldn't help it, this time I really barked out a laugh. For a brief moment, Usui's startled by it before he goes back to watching me silently.

"Sorry," I say with a dry chuckle, "That's just—heh—putting it lightly."

"Oh?" Looks like his interest was piqued.

"But it's not one I should tell in public," I say cryptically.

"Hey, now I'm curious," I glance at him as he playfully pouts.

"Speaking of curiosity," I swiftly changed topics, "What was your deal with Shidare? Never thought I'd see you so shocked."

"…Just what kind of image do you have of me?" Usui asks instead, then becomes coy, "Do you think about me that much?"

Good grief, he's good, real good.

"With how she looked at you, it looked more like she recognized you rather than be a lovestruck maiden." I point out

He's still stubborn too.

"Shaddup," I can't help but scowl, "How did she recognize you?"

Knowing that he wouldn't get away, he sighs.

"…The Usui family is one of the major shareholders for the Shidare Company. While her family used to be a local business years back, once they partnered with the Usui family, they became a multinational business." He slowly explains.

"Technically, while their names are on the products, they still answer to the Usui family when it comes to the bigger decisions. My adoptive father is the CEO of the Chiba branch and my adoptive mother works in the law firm that represents them. They're the ones that her family goes to since they represent the head of the Usui family, even if my adoptive parents technically work for them."

That's a lot to take in. And it gave some insight into the world of the rich, even the owners of huge companies have people to answer to, huh?

And I note how Usui actively made it seem as if he wasn't a part of this by separating himself from his adoptive family.

"So, I guess she met you once before?" I calmly ask, looking up at him.

He nods slowly, "Twice, it was probably ten years back. Her father brought her along one day since she was always eager to see what he does," He chuckles after that as if recalling the memory, "She wandered off almost immediately once he left her to talk to my adoptive father."

I sweatdropped, but I wasn't particularly surprised. That girl struck me as the type…

"I guess that's when she met you?"

He nods again, silently mulling as he tells his story. Right, I forgot, he surprisingly sucks when it comes to talking about himself.

I patiently await for him to continue, breathing out another mist cloud into the cold night sky. Our strides were slower compared to before.

"When my parents conducted business with guests, I was always told to remain in my room," Usui's voice breaks the silence, "But on that particular day, I was bored and thought to myself that it would be fine to be out as long as I'm not seen."

Children and making reckless decisions, never has there been a better combination.

"Well, it lasted all of ten minutes before she stumbled upon me," Usui chuckles to himself again, "The first thing she did was offer me a piece of candy that hadn't been in the market yet. If you've met her before, I guess you know about her habits by now."

I snorted, and nodded back at him to continue.

"One of the attendants of the house called for her afterwards, and I left immediately," He says simply, "Our second meeting was a few weeks later. That time she actively looked for me, and she gave me a lollipop."

Somehow, I can picture her just waltzing up to him and giving him the sweets without announcing herself.

"I'm guessing something happened this time?" I asked the obvious.

I'm met with a nod, "I don't know the specifics. But afterwards her family never did business in the estate I lived in ever again. My adoptive parents must have found out about it and done something. There were very few people they were fine with seeing me, mostly those with direct family-ties. The Shidare's were not part of that small list, unfortunately."

The implication of his statement is pretty scary. His family has enough power to threaten Shidare's parents and still continue their business.

"I never expected for her to be connected to you though," The blonde releases his own deep breath, and I can hear his exasperation in his tone.

"Can't tell you much about it," I shrug at him, "She's close enough to casually visit my house without a thought, but all she talks about are dagashi. I can't tell where our relationship is supposed to lie."

"Hehh…" Is his only response.

Again, we walk in silence as I mull over everything I learned. Almost everyone I meet is interconnected with each other in some way or another. The only exceptions are Gasai, Belldandy and Deviluke as they haven't previously met anybody that I'm supposed to know. Sure Gasai is in Usui's neighborhood and they've seen one another, but it isn't like they personally know each other.

Idly, I look around my surroundings. We were walking through a park now, and I was getting a small sense of deja vu. This wasn't the same one where we spoke to one another and where I met Suou, but why did I feel like I've been here before?

I looked back and forth, trying to see if I could pinpoint any sort of landmark to confirm that I have been to this park, but it was too dark to see anything but the outlines of the trees and buildings.

"…How close are we to your place?" I ask, somewhat uneasily.

"What's this?" Usui's smooth voice pounces me with his usual teasing, "Scared of the dark, Hikigaya?"

"No," I growled out, "Is it nearby?"

He smiles mirthfully but answers, "It's not far from the exit. It's an apartment complex, which is why we aren't in a residential area."

…A-an apartment complex was it?

Suddenly, I felt a sense of impending doom come upon me.

It takes less time than I would have liked to reach the exit and see a certain familiar building.

Ahahaha…

"Pfft," Usui holds back a laugh as he looks at me, "Somehow, I can sympathize with your expression right now. What's wrong?"

"Just… really starting to get tired of how small this world is when it comes to these sorts of things…"

After all, right in front of me is the very apartment complex that also housed the one and only Yukinoshita Yukino.

Now I can't help but wonder if I managed to personally insult Lady Luck at some point in my life.

Forget about not smiling upon me, she's just plain spitting in my direction…

---

Chapter 10 END

---

GTH 03

In a luxurious hotel nestled within the culinary haven of Totsuki Resort, a strikingly beautiful and tall woman with long black hair, and deep purple-colored eyes, relaxed on the balcony of her room. Dressed in a white bathrobe and sunglasses, she basked in the sunlight, comfortably resting over a recliner as she hummed a pleasant tune as the day unfolded.

Soon, her tranquility was broken as a notification flashed on her laptop's screen, resting on a small white table beside her. With a sigh of mild annoyance, she reluctantly turned her attention to the laptop, deciding to address the interruption.

Shifting in the recliner, she adjusted her position to engage with the laptop, also removing the sunglasses. Upon revising its interface, she discovered that the individual she needed to present to The Readers was now available. She couldn't help but sweatdrop, inwardly acknowledging that her indulgence of the premises had led her to forget this important commitment.

Promptly, she launched the GALAX application on her laptop, contacting the only character scheduled for presentation for today. Without delay, the video call commenced, the screen dividing into three sections: one displaying the readers in a classroom, another showing her on the balcony, and the third revealing an elegant office with a lone gentleman.

"Eh… sorry for the suddenness…" The woman nervously began, "I thought it would take longer… a-anyway, welcome back readers! This is Hiratsuka Shizuka! Best woman to marry, and somehow still single..."

"…"

However, there was no response from either the readers or the man in the office. The air remained still, devoid of any interaction.

"…"

Her bland gaze fixed on the screen, a hollow sensation lingering momentarily before she let out a sigh of resignation. Settling herself more comfortably on the recliner, she proceeded, "In any case… Well, as you all can see, I'm taking my well deserved vacation in this beautiful resort, which by the way, was possible thanks to the kind invitation of the character we're presenting today."

"There's no need for that, Hiratsuka-san. It was my pleasure," The man in the office, who's countenance was framed by an aura of absolute authority, leaned slightly forward. "You are, after all, the current host of this section. It was the least I could do."

She chuckled at that, "Thank you. So, why don't you introduce yourself?"

The man, possessing sharp eyes that seemed to dissect every detail, had short brown hair that framed his face. His eyebrows distinctively formed an almost-perfect sideways V. Dressed impeccably in a business suit, he adjusted his tie with a composed nod.

"I'm Dojima Gin, a supporting character from the manga, Shokugeki no Souma," He further elaborated, his gaze shifting between Hiratsuka and the readers, his demeanor serious. "I hold the position of General Head Chef at the Totsuki Resort. In the past, however, I was the first seat of the Elite Ten Council in Totsuki Academy."

His imposing presence seemed to have an intimidating effect on the readers. On the other hand, Hiratsuka's face conveyed a mixture of surprise and admiration.

"I see… then that means that you must be a… great cook," With a sly smile playing at the corners of her lips, she commented. "Maybe sometime… you could show me your culinary skills?"

Dojima chuckled slightly in response, "I'm afraid that I won't be able to at the moment. My schedule this month is exceptionally hectic."

"Damn it…" Hiratsuka let out a subtle hiss under her breath, quickly replacing it with a smile to conceal her inner disappointment. "Too bad…"

"I do hope, however, that you enjoy the facilities to the fullest during your stay here," He added calmly.

"By all means, I will, Dojima-san," She responded.

"I'm pleased to hear that. Then, would that be all?"

"Yes," She leant towards the screen with a subtle touch of seduction. "Thank you for making time for this section, Dojima-san."

"Of course," The man firmly nodded, his attention suddenly diverted as he noticed the ringing of the phone on his desk. "Now I'll answer this, so if you'll excuse me, Hiratsuka-san."

"Sure! I hope we can talk ano—"

The window displaying Dojima's office abruptly closed, leaving the vacationing teacher speechless for a minute. The readers awkwardly observed the unfolding situation in silence.

Somewhere in the far distance, a certain student was sending well wishes for his homeroom teacher's luck in marriage.

"Well… I tried at least…" She sighed in irritation, "In any case, that will be all for today. See you all in the next installment!"

---

Author notes:

Given our still limited writing time because of our everyday responsibilities, updates will inevitably be a slow process even compared to before. It probably doesn't help that NivanaFrk97 and I are separated by differing time zones, it could be a lot worse than three hours but it can still get in the way at times. While the next chapter might come faster, subsequent ones may take longer. Nonetheless, the story will continue, and we'll strive to keep delivering new chapters. Your patience will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you again for reading. We'll see you in the next chapter.

- Itherael