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.

4. Misunderstandings

Here we are again.

For the extra content, open a tab to my deviantArt account: "MakerOfSouls", and enter my gallery, where the pictures for this particular chapter can be found.

By opening my fanfiction profile, you can find the profile of this story. In it, you can find the song recommendations for this chapter.

Anyhow, let's do this!

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Logic is My Sword

Chapter 03 – Misunderstandings Are Routinary When It Comes To Lala Satalin Deviluke.

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3-0

Misunderstandings.

No one can escape from them… Not even me despite using extreme caution in order to avoid them. Can they actually be worse than rumors? Possibly, they weren't much worse in terms of results but they are far more difficult to deal with.

How did I reach that conclusion?

Let's start with what Understanding actually means theoretically. It is said to be a psychological process related to an object, be it abstract or concrete. An example of the pertaining object would be a person as myself, a situation, or a simple message whereby one is able to create thoughts of it and use concepts to deal adequately with said object. So then, 'understanding' is a relation between the knower and the object of understanding.

Uh… I may be going overboard with explaining it.

To put things simply, 'understanding' is related to learning concepts, and their theories associated with them, allowing people to predict the behavior of an object, animal, system and therefore, in some sort of weird way, adapt to it… Without necessarily being familiar with the concepts or theories associated with the aforementioned object in its culture.

So then what is a Misunderstanding? It's actually quite simple. A 'misunderstanding' is a mistaken or incorrect assumption of a purpose of an object, or action of sorts. The erroneous interpretation of human behavior, systems and situations used as base of one's personal conception and knowledge about an object in particular, whether it's vast or limited.

False information, bad timing, ill intentions, ignorance and vanity are some of the factors that lead to them occurring. The result, something advantageous to the one causing the misunderstanding or, an entirely wrong misconception that could damage one's thoughts about the object of interest, creating aversion from those that tried to understand it.

Take interactions with others for instance. As a child, a person is ignorant of ill intent, or at least less inclined to realize it. A group of children could include a lone child in some of their activities which leads said boy to think that they are friends. And yet the group picks on the lone boy, they say it's all in the name of harmless fun so the boy does not mind it. But as time goes on, the initially 'harmless' ribbing gradually worsens. Soon the boy isn't even invited to outings with the group and yet they go to him and treat him casually, saying that they couldn't include the boy because they couldn't reach him. You know, those kinds of excuses.

The ignorance of the boy has him accept such explanations, and still regards the others as his friends. Then later, he notices that they begin to 'borrow' his belongings asking: "Aren't we friends?"

Should the boy initially hesitate in lending his things. Saying such a thing leads to two types of repercussions for the boy, it pressures him into doing as the group says to avoid being seen as the selfish one, and it lures the boy into a false sense of security in thinking the others are still his friends. These kinds of situations continue to occur for a time until the group finally decides to drop their facade of friendship and simply mock the lone boy maliciously while taking his things, knowing that he would no longer resist them.

It is then that the young child realizes that their 'friendship' with the group was all a misunderstanding on his part.

This realization does emotional damage to the boy, and he now finds himself being the brunt of multiple jokes. He did nothing wrong but misunderstand and yet he's the one who suffers for it. It's completely unfair and cruel, but the boy can do nothing to go against the malicious group who spawned and abused the misunderstanding in the first place.

It goes to show how even children are not immune to the cruelties of the world. There's not really any sort of innocent time in life after infancy, humanity is just too cruel.

I would know...

I was that lone child after all.

3-1

The school nurse arrived shortly after Hiratsuka-sensei. She had me stay still as she bandaged my face and wrapped my torso with some KT tape where my darker bruises were, I ignored Miura's jealous frown and Shiromeguri's pout as that happened. I did notice though that the nurse held an irritated scowl the entire time. She was probably mad for being called back into campus so late into the day. Well excuuuse me, I'm sorry for getting attacked at an inconvenient time for you. You wouldn't last as an actual nurse in a hospital if you're this impatient, you knoooow!

You should actually be glad that this sort of thing happened, you don't see students that often during the day so I may have just saved your position in this school. Thank me for my misfortune, dammit!

I sigh in relief when the young nurse steps out, finally able to dress myself again. I grunt softly in pain as I tug on my shirt. Still, I'm really glad that nobody else noticed my scars. The nurse might have been too annoyed to see them, while I caught a break with Sensei being distracted listening to the girls' less messy stories.

"So, you're sure that's all that happened?" I look up to see Hiratsuka-sensei giving me a stern stare, looking a bit too irked for this situation. She probably got self-conscious when the younger nurse showed up. (Seriously, someone marry her already.) But this again? I already told you what happened woman, there's no reason for me to lie here.

"Yeah, that's all." I say as I finish fixing my shirt.

I glanced at my taped up hands, my knuckles were left pretty bruised and the nurse didn't want to take any chances. I still can't believe I was actually involved in a fight, and won(?). Or at least I lasted until a stalemate. That's a far cry from what I was capable of doing back in my world. I still remember my 'fight' with the captain of the karate club all that time ago, something that was both humiliating and painful.

I'm not sure how to feel having these new capabilities though, it's pretty surreal actually. But this isn't the right time to think about it.

"And you didn't see who they were?" She crossed her arms, this time showing concern in her features.

"Just that they were in a sports club. Wouldn't this just be easier to figure out tomorrow?" Of course, I could barely be asked to remember who those redshirts were. Clearly their true purpose in life was for me to make quick work of them with my new awe-inspiring power.

Just kidding, this isn't anime after all. I got beaten down pretty badly plus they had their reasons and felt completely justified in their actions. Although, the leader did seem to be pretty pathetic.

"Oh? And how would we do that?" I see sensei raise an eyebrow, Miura and Shiromeguri looked on curiously as well. I grimace at the sudden attention.

"Just check the attendance of any of the school's athletes. Whoever's gone, will probably be one of the guys involved. And if they show up, well, unless this place has suddenly become a battle school, they'll probably be the only ones besides me with bandages."

I hear Hiratsuka-sensei chuckle. "Well, we can do that. Or, we can just ask the brat that was left behind."

I blink at that, "He's still here?"

She shrugs casually. "You did quite the number on him. He's still out cold in the other room, so the nurse went to check on him. We notified his parents, but they said they won't be able to show up for another hour. So I'm stuck here for a while longer. Anyways, once he wakes up, I can interrogate him about it."

Huh… I didn't think I left him off that bad. Wait, I took down three and two were carried off? Which one's still here?

"What makes you think they'll tell you the truth? He could use my bad reputation to manipulate it in his favor," I did think of this possibility while explaining what had happened to Hiratsuka-sensei.

With my bad image, I could easily be accused as the aggressor and be punished for it, my word as a 'delinquent' against theirs as athletes.

"Hah, you don't look like the type stupid enough to pick a fight against a number advantage. And you don't need to worry about him, with your two defenses here," She gestures to Miura and Shiromeguri, "You're seen as the victim in all of this. He, on the other hand, can be expelled, something I can take full advantage of!" She gives me an evil grin.

I shudder involuntarily. This woman is truly terrifying, but she's right about that. Whoever got left behind is liable to take all of the blame if the others don't get found, he'll probably sell them out just to lessen his punishment to simple suspension. Well, that's that then.

"Right, do what you want. It's not really my problem anymore," I say with a shrug.

After that I stand on my feet, suppressing a groan as a dull pulse of pain goes through my body at the sudden movement.

I take a moment to repress the aches and look at both Miura and Shiromeguri. "Well, let's go to Yukihira's restaurant."

And as I would have suspected, they stare at me in what I think is disbelief.

"Haaah!?"

"Eh?"

I cock an eyebrow, "What is it? That was the plan, right?"

Then Miura starts…

"Hachiman! How can you think of that right now!?" She reprimands me, stepping up closely. Seriously woman, am I going to have to lecture you later about not invading people's personal space? "I don't care what the nurse said. You should, like, still go to the hospital or something, y'know? Make sure you're really okay and stuff."

"I agree with Yumi-chan..." I narrow my gaze, Shiromeguri fidgets as I focus on her. "Y-you should at least rest a bit. We can postpone going to the restaurant for another day."

I take a step forward, gazing down at the shy attempt of Miura trying to stop me by standing in my way. I look at her directly in the eyes before she starts blushing, and eventually steps back. Shiromeguri frowns but makes no attempt to stop me. However, the older meddling woman took it upon herself to butt in.

"Hey, they're just worried about you. Don't be like that," Hiratsuka begins to lecture me, "You took a beating, a bad one at that." She sighs after noticing my lack of reaction, "At least let me take you home, you're in no condition to walk."

"I'm fine," I mutter, reaching out for my blazer, "Besides, Yukihira's won't be open for much longer so we might as well go today."

I turned to them, and cocked an eyebrow.

They looked a bit conflicted.

Don't give me that, I'm trying to not make a big deal of this so you don't have to worry. I don't feel as bad as I look, so I guess my fast recovery worked while I was unconscious… My body still aches like hell though…

Not that I'll let them know that.

"Listen, I'm fine…" Miura pouts, Shiromeguri doesn't look any more convinced, and Sensei just stares, full of doubt. I guess I'm gonna have to be a little persuasive. "Haven't you noticed that I was out less than half an hour? If I were worse, I'd still be in bed, let alone up and moving."

The bed does look tempting though.

"But your bruises…" My senpai starts but I'm not planning to let her continue.

"Yeah, they look bad, but with the treatment they'll heal soon enough," I try to sound reassuring, but I honestly know that I'm bad at doing that. Bah, they're gonna have to buy it. "Besides, it's not like I'm gonna make much physical effort in a restaurant. It's just sitting and eating, which can be considered as resting, right? Walking a bit won't really do much. So, let's just go… Together…"

I scratch the back of my neck uneasily. Good grief, saying that out loud sure was embarrassing…

I see Hiratsuka-sensei move to sit on the bed, crossing her legs in a… very dangerous manner. I blink at that and instinctively look away. Geez… Looks like the sensei of this world was more unconsciously alluring than I expected. Well, she was always a beauty, and as a woman she's not half bad.

Wait, what the hell am I thinking about?

I shake my head to remove those silly thoughts. It's then that I'm made aware of a glare courtesy of Miura. What the hell!? Is she an esper!? How could she tell where my thoughts were lingering? A woman's intuition really is a scary thing…

Stop that, I didn't do anything wrong here. I was a perfect gentleman, I didn't stare like some kind of pervert, I looked away and gave her some privacy.

"Well, you have a point there," Sensei concedes, arms folded, regaining my attention. "The shopping district is not that far, so I suppose it's fine," I nod my head, before she adds something more, her tone sharp. "However, promise that someone will take you home from there."

"I'll do it," Comes the immediate response of Miura, before she immediately reddens and looks down, away from our surprised stares. "I-I mean… I can, like, do it…"

This girl… that's a very bold proclamation you just made there, you know? It's embarrassing, so please give me a break. I don't know if my heart will be able to continue enduring her boldness… At least don't look that desperate, woman! It's not like I'll be going anywhere…

Not for now at least.

Hiratsuka-sensei observes her and shoots me a smug look. I suspect that she already noticed Miura's unusual amount of concern for me… Oh dear, this won't be good. I bet I'll be teased about this subject if this keeps up.

"Sure, Miura, please do it," I see the older woman grin, her eyes darting between us. "We wouldn't want him getting into more trouble on his own, right?"

Woman, you're the one causing me trouble right now.

I suddenly feel a pinch on my arm, so I glare at the perpetrator behind the pain in my limb. The glare became a look of surprise seeing that it was Shiromeguri and she was… pouting? Could it be that you're not happy with the situation? I know you're probably worried about having Miura getting home at a late time should she drop me off, but it's not like I was going to accept the offer or anything.

"I don't think that's necessary, Yumi-chan," Shiromeguri now held an innocent expression, yet there's something off with her tone. I feel as if certain doom would find me if I were to say anything, so I wisely kept my mouth shut. "His friend, Yuuki-kun, can easily take him home since they're neighbors."

Alright, guess I somehow prefer dealing with that annoying guy instead of having Miura come to my house. Now that would be an awkward situation just waiting to happen, what with my parents apparently being home by this time. I can already feel the headache coming on just thinking about it. And I'm not even factoring Belldandy and Deviluke into that mess of a picture.

So no thanks. I choose life.

Miura glares at Shiromeguri, of course, she doesn't seem to be happy with how her friend had so easily sabotaged her plans. Shiromeguri feigns ignorance and looks at anything but the Fire Queen. I decided to avoid that landmine and just keep things moving.

"Right. Come on, let's head out already, we'll be late." I slowly walk out, careful not to anger my bruises.

I ignore Hiratsuka-sensei's knowing grin as I exit the room, the girls following closely behind me.

3-2

Well, I think these are the only minutes of silence I've had since I woke up today. And while I can appreciate that Miura and Shiromeguri are actually not saying a single word, this is getting a bit awkward. Miura still looks indignant with Shiromeguri for her suggestion while our senpai looks away guiltily. Just what I needed right now, these two not talking to each other… I may have to do something. This atmosphere is rapidly becoming suffocating.

Let's try some small talk.

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Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 03 Section: Song 01

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Right… There's a first time for everything, I guess.

"Uhh… so Miura, do you usually eat at Yukihira's?" I ask, my face focused on the horizon as I leant against the wall just outside of Sobu, allowing my aching legs some rest. It's really starting to hurt again, and forcing myself to not limp is becoming a titanic feat to accomplish.

The blonde blinks and pouts, "Mou~! You already know that! Even if we didn't talk much before, we'd totally see each other at Yukihira's sometimes, right? Almost everyone in Sobu, like, goes there, yo'know?" She folds her arms.

No, I didn't know(lol).

"But… It has been some time since Yukihira-kun's restaurant was last open," Shiromeguri finally speaks up, earning a disinterested gaze from her underclassman. "I wouldn't be surprised if Hachiman-kun forgot."

"'Eeeh… Is that right?" Yikes, Miura's voice was really cold there. I see Shiromeguri flinch at it.

I clear my throat and tug at my collar. Man, the tension between these two is almost palpable. How could they become like this to one another for such a stupid reason? Weren't they best friends or something? Girls are seriously crazy!

"I was, like, talking to him, Meguri," Oh man, the Fire Queen's inner demon is coming out! "Since when have you been so meddl—"

"Miura," I cut her off, my voice as dry as I could make it. She is clearly startled, much more when I gaze at her in disapproval. I had to stop her before she said anything she'd regret.

"…Thanks, you know, for your offer I mean. I… appreciate it, but I'd feel bad having you walk back home alone." I start, struggling to find the proper words.

"But…" I see her try to retort but I don't let her.

"And Shiromeguri was just looking out for you. A girl like you shouldn't be out late, you know?" I explain, before looking away in embarrassment. I hate having to say these kinds of lines, "Besides… We can see each other at school, right?"

"…Y-you mean it?" I look up when I hear the fragility of her voice. What I see is the look of pure innocent happiness coming from Miura Yumiko. Once again I'm taken aback at how something so initially mundane could actually be so meaningful for Miura should it come from me. I feel uneasiness creep up inside me as I'm reminded that the Miura of this world holds feelings for the Hachiman that existed before I showed up.

"Yeah…" I could no longer look her in the eye, it felt wrong being the recipient of those feelings. They were not meant for me, "I'll probably keep hanging out at the same spot I took you earlier."

I glance behind Miura to see Shiromeguri looking a little sad. I'm not sure why, I can't think of a reason for her to be displeased. It was then I realized, I just offered Miura a place where she can be alone with me. Crap, that's not good. If we spend any more time alone, it'll run the risk of Miura trying to deepen whatever relationship she thinks we have. That's really bad, I can't return her feelings and if I screw up, I can wind up hurting her when the time comes to reject her.

I have to avoid that.

"Uh, you and Shiromeguri can come around whenever you want." I see them blink at that.

Shiromeguri's expression brightens as she smiles softly at me. Feeling awkward, I focus back on Miura instead and see the Fire Queen studying my face curiously.

I notice her blink at some sort of inner realization before smiling helplessly. She gives me a cute wink before I turn away with a heated face.

"Let's just go…" I grumble out, removing myself from the supportive wall. I hear dual giggles before the sound of their steps behind me. Looks like the tension between the two has relaxed, that's good at least.

To my discomfort, I sense that they have placed me between each other. Miura simply smiles happily as she walks along my right while Shiromeguri peers at me curiously with her hands behind her back at my left.

"Do you feel alright, Hachiman-kun?" My senpai asks.

"Better," I reply monotonously, and she pouts. "What?"

"Hachiman-kun, at least look at me when you say it. You make it hard to believe you," Shiromeguri explained with a bothered tone. Well, she does have a point.

"I'm fine, Shiromeguri-senpai. Honest." I give her a thumbs up, cocking my lip upward a bit.

Good grief, I hope I don't have to smile anymore than I've had this whole day. My lip muscles might wind up more sore than my whole body if this keeps up.

"Mmm…" I hear a hum from my other side. "Meguri is right, Hachiman. If you feel too much pain, just tell us. We can, like, take the bus or something, you know?"

I'm about to give my reply before noticing something ahead of us, three guys standing near a motorcycle. I roll my eyes as I notice that one of them is the annoyingly kind, Yuuki Rito. When they notice me, Yuuki and company rush towards us.

I sigh inwardly. Here we go again…

"Hey, Hachiman!" Yuuki calls my name as they approach.

The trio stood before us, Shiromeguri bowed her head to greet them while Miura merely folded her arms and scrutinized them. For my part, I only stared at them in disinterest.

New faces, great…

The three looked concerned, well, at least that's what I could tell from Yuuki and the guy with glasses at his side, the third fellow made it harder, what with him wearing sunglasses and all.

Now that I look at them closely, the shorter of the two newest strangers embodies the look of what I'd call an otaku, not the gross type, that would be Zamoikusa, but the reclusive sort that keeps his hobbies to himself. Light blue eyes, black hair that covered his forehead and slightly under my height. All in all, plain, I guess. He wore a dark blue blazer and equally dark pants, his uniform most likely.

The other guy was the opposite in every way, shape or form. He was taller, muscular and resembled the classic trope of a delinquent, I doubt I can be accused of exaggeration. His hair was spiked upwards, must take a lot of hair products to keep it that way. I had to mention that his skin was fairly darker than average, a stark contrast compared to the others. Either a great tan, or he's part foreigner, one of the two but, meh, not really important. He wore a black blazer, which was opened, revealing a white shirt, and his pants were black, a possible uniform from another high school perhaps? He looked a lot older to be one though.

I had to wonder, considering how late it was, why was this delinquent wearing sunglasses so close to sunset? Are you trying to get yourself killed driving that bike of yours? (Well, who else would it belong to?)

"Hachiman?" I see a worried Miura waving her hands in front of me. "A-are you in a trance or something?"

I blink at having my thoughts broken up so suddenly. Whoops, was I spacing out there?

"Ah, yeah, my bad. I was just wondering if it was alright for you two to be here." My female companions blink in confusion before I level a flat stare at the delinquent-looking fellow.

The guy in question also blinks before realization dawns on him at my implication, he begins to scowl in indignation. I notice Yuuki looks between us nervously, while the plain-looking one simply fixes his glasses. I see the delinquent about to growl out some insult, but I cut him off.

"Yuuki might decide to say something stupid and embarrass himself in front of you two," I finish.

"Eh!? Wait, m-me!?" I hear the shorter idiot cry out.

Wow, he's actually the shortest one out of all of us, isn't he? Both Miura and Shiromeguri both look to beat him in height, even if it's slightly. Hurry up and hit your growth spurt already. Aren't you a high schooler?

The taller guy stares at me, silence reigning before he suddenly starts laughing, in a dumb manner if I may add, with his hands on his hips before he steps up to me and pats my back forcefully. I bite back a groan of pain, and just grimace at the contact.

This guy, why the heck do you have to touch me?

"Hah! That's a good one Hikigaya! Just look at their faces," He motions his head towards Yuuki, Shiromeguri and Miura, who were visibly startled. "That joke always pays off, huh?"

"Joke?" Asks Miura, "Are they, like, friends of yours, Hachiman?"

"Not really…"

Is what I would have liked to say, but I've gotten nothing good from saying that before, so why bother? Let's just play along. Anyhow, this fellow first struck me as a delinquent, but he seems rather idiotic in a friendly manner, not the behavior one would expect from a person with his appearance. Kind of like a better Tobe, I guess. But no Tobe is truly the best kind of Tobe.

"…Of sorts." I mutter.

"Well, I thought you'd look worse, Hachiman-kun. Rito was going off about your eyes changing just now. Well… They're not pretty, that's for sure," The otaku comments as I avoid his attempts at making eye contact. Stop that, it's creepy. And I think you just insulted me there otaku-san. You picking a fight? He then turns to Shiromeguri. "Hello, Shiromeguri-senpai."

"Good evening, Aki-kun," She nods her head before turning her gaze to my neighbor, "Hello Yuuki-kun, long time no see." She greets him cheerfully. Then she waves a hand at the scary-looking guy. "Harima-kun, nice to see you too."

"Yo, Big Sis," The delinquent called Harima returned the gesture. What the heck did you call her?

"E-e-eh, h-h-hi Sh-Shiromeguri-s-s-s-senpai!" That idiot Yuuki is stammering again. This guy really is terrible with the female gender, isn't he?

As the two new faces begin teasing Yuuki for his reaction, something I feel will become a common occurrence, I focus on the matter at hand.

So Shiromeguri knows these two as well? It's not that surprising if I took into consideration that Shiromeguri was very friendly and popular, especially for a Student Council President, which could have allowed her to meet students from other schools and befriend them, but what about the delinquent? Could it be that I underestimated her communication skills?

Besides that, this is Aki then? The guy that Kasumigaoka girl complained about wanting to drag her and now me into his dating sim project?

"So, Hachiman-kun." I hear Aki speak up, turning away from an incredibly embarrassed Yuuki.

"What is it?" I mutter, with as much enthusiasm you'd have watching paint dry.

"Who's this with you?" He asks, gesturing to a bored-looking Miura. I notice Yuuki blanch in the corner of my eye. What's with that? Miura however, scowls. Uh-oh.

"It's, like, totally rude to talk about others when they're right here." She says in irritation, glaring at the plain-looking Aki. I catch Yuuki freeze as if prey in front of a predator before frantically turning away from the Fire Queen. She wasn't even talking to you idiot. For his part, Aki merely coughs into his fist and averts his gaze, that's pretty impressive actually. I absentmindedly noticed Harima continued whatever conversation he and Shiromeguri were having without skipping a beat. "Miura Yumiko, if you hafta know."

Once her name was revealed, I noticed the two newly arrived males showing varying degrees of surprise. Aki quickly adjusts his glasses to compose himself, quick thinking there to keep everyone else from catching that. Harima rubs the back of his head with one eyebrow raised, how can a guy that is the epitome of what a typical delinquent looks like, seem so innocent?

Meanwhile Yuuki… Well, the girls weren't really paying attention to this idiotic open book in the first place. Close your mouth already, why are you gaping?

"Ehem… Right…" I turn back to Aki as his voice fades briefly, his eyes gazing at both Yuuki and Harima before continuing. "…Nice to meet you, Miura-san." Suddenly, Aki gives me a puzzled expression. "I never thought I'd see Hachiman-kun hanging with… others from his school."

No one, huh? Oh, yeah, of course. I'm the most hated guy in Sobu and the only people nice to me were previously kept at bay by the prior Hachiman. I guess I had no one to talk to before today. Wait, what about Zaimokuza, did he never…?

"With Yoshiteru-kun as an exception, of course," I just thought of that gross guy and this boy mentions him? Speak of the chuuni, and he will come, huh? Are they friends or something? Aki just called Zaimokuza by his name, so that might be the case.

"Quit joking, he's not my friend," I refuse to refer to him as one even in this world, we're both fellow loners and that's all it'll ever be.

"Oh, that's right. He said something about lone spirits having no need of friends, right? What a cool guy…" Aki fixes his glasses again, "Oh, I just recalled that he still has my trilogy of Road to Paradise!" He raises a fist upward, his tone also increasing. "Gah! I totally forgot due to my destined project!"

I can only deduce Road to Paradise is some sort of game. But what's this about a destined project? Is he referring to the thing Utaha mentioned? 'Destined,' he… wasn't that kind of person was he? I don't need another delusional fellow in my life.

And I feel as though he said something odd regarding Zaimokuza just now…

Shiromeguri giggles at Aki's outburst, while Miura grimaces in disgust. Hey now, no need to be rude. I mean, I get it, but you don't have to let him know about it, do you? Aki, was it? Well, just like with Harima, the otaku seemed rather calm at first, but he's surprisingly vocal about his games. That might explain why he wants to make one of his own. These things are his passion I guess.

Something you want to strive for, huh?

…

I will do it…

I'll become the best house husband this world has ever known!

Anyway, back to the matter at hand. I carefully observed the two new faces, none of them were what their appearance spoke of them. That's refreshingly different to say the least, I'm tired of the clichéd characters, you know?

"And who are you…?" Miura growls, her brow twitching. Yikes, move the conversation along Aki.

"Oh yeah, s-sorry," Aki shakes his head and bows to her, "I'm Aki Tomoya from the Toyogasaki High School. Founder, producer and director of the circle, Blessing Software. Nice to meet you."

Blessing Software? This guy really is into games I guess… He's seemingly respectful, so he's got that going for him. We wouldn't want him making the Fire Queen pissed. I still want to live after all. Now, this guy does somehow seem like someone capable of creating such a game, I suppose, but was it that easy? I'm actually intrigued on how he's pulling that sort of thing off by himself.

Miura doesn't seem impressed in the slightest by what Aki Tomoya said, so she gives him a curt nod and turns to the scary looking guy, folding her arms. Noticing his gaze, the guy stops his side chat with Shiromeguri and speaks.

"Well, I'm Harima Kenji. A man who has fallen in love and has recently gotten his heart broken in a tragic manner," To her surprise and mine, he speaks dramatically. What the heck is with that introduction? It just seems so out of place, and it's not like anyone asked either.

However, what was more startling was the face Miura sported at that moment. She just stood there, staring at nothing in silence. Harima Kenji furrowed a brow, probably offended by the lack of reaction. Shiromeguri grabs her hand, taking her out of her trance.

"Yumi-chan?" She peeks at her face with a concerned expression, "You okay?"

Miura blinks twice, noticing the attention she was drawing. She shakes her head and smiles at her reassuringly, "Y-yeah, I just…" She shoots me a quick glance. What is it? "S-sorry. Ehm… I guess it's, like, cool meeting Hachiman's friends."

I internally cringe at that, stop it Miura. I might just believe that if you keep saying it.

Harima stares at her and laughs loudly, "Haha! You bet that meetin' a man in love is something cool!" To my surprise, he puts an arm around my shoulder, "Anyway, I'm still pissed that some little shits attacked you, Hikigaya. How many were they?"

I'm surprised to hear that, but shrug his arm off. You don't need to touch me to ask that.

"You know about that?"

"Of course we know!" Aki speaks up, looking unexpectedly serious, "Rito-kun came looking for you, and he ran into your homeroom teacher. She told him about the incident, and he told me."

"And this guy told me, so I tagged along," Harima added, gesturing at the bespectacled boy. "Those bitches may be up to somethin' later, so I came in case you needed some muscle to watch your back."

Drats. I would have rather kept this incident inside a small circle but I guess that was out of my control. This happened while I was unconscious after all, that meddling hag should've kept her mouth shut.

Taking in what Harima said though… So these guys were also close friends of mine, huh? Well, why else would he say that sort of thing? If they were fake, it wouldn't have sounded so… sincere.

Hah… It's so much easier living in a world where nobody likes you, let alone when the people that do like you, like another version of yourself that isn't really you. Huh, the situation sounds messier when I put it that way.

"…Right. Don't worry about it," I start, unsure how to react to this kind of support.

"Yeah! Hachiman, like, drove all of them off by himself! There's no way they'd come back!" Looks like Miura couldn't hold back anymore. Hey wait, don't say it like that. I didn't really win, they just got caught and ran. And weren't you and Shiromeguri insisting that I was pretty beat up?

"Uoh! I didn't expect any less, Hikigaya," Harima raised a fist. "Still, wish I was there with you to beat them to a bloody pulp!"

I should appreciate the thought, and actually, I can see you doing something like that, but seriously, that would have turned out worse for us, so it's better that it didn't happen.

"Calm down Kenji-kun. What matters is that he's fine," Aki states, and Yuuki nods. "What exactly happened?"

---

Go to profile, SEE: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 03 Section: Picture 01

---

"It doesn't really matter," I shrug my shoulders. "Like you said, I'm fine, so there's no need to make a big deal out of this." Harima kept muttering something as he stood a bit away from us, while Aki stared at me inquisitively.

I ignore it, and then, I start walking forward.

Miura and Shiromeguri walk up to me, the blonde pulling me by my blazer, halting my progress. What is it now? You're going to stretch the fabric, and I don't want to buy another one. It's already a miracle that it survived the beatdown with a few scuffs.

"Hachiman, are we really going to Yukihira's? Don't act tough, you really were hurt, you know?"

"Hold up!" I turn around to see Yuuki and the others following, this time getting close enough to get a better look at my bandaged face.

Hey, wait a second there. Why are you getting so close!? It's bad enough that these two women don't know what personal space is, I don't want you to join in you perverted idiot! Totsuka's the only one who has permission, dammit!

"Ah! You really are bruised all over your face!" Yuuki states the obvious. You were told I got in a fight. Were expecting me to come out 100%?

"Hmph. If I was there, those bitches would've been roadkill!" I double take at Harima's sudden aggression. Looks like this guy can be scary when he wants to. But could you please not focus that anger at me? I'm innocent here and you're scaring the others.

"Oi, relax," I find myself commanding the taller boy. Was I insane? He looks like he'd paint me black and blue, "It's not like I didn't offer any resistance. I ran them off and they'll probably get suspended by tomorrow."

Harima assumed a thoughtful expression before nodding. I sigh in relief, yet Yuuki and Aki don't seem to agree. I scowl at them before I start walking forward once more.

"Hey, Hachiman!" Miura starts, "Mou… You're, like, really hard-headed, are you?"

Yuuki's voice follows, stuttering since the opposite gender is around, "Y-yeah… we're j-j-just w-worried about you."

I'm getting tired of everyone judging and arguing every time I make a decision that doesn't correspond to their ideals. Even if they are worried, they have no voice or opinion in deciding what I do. It's my life after all… No, wait, it isn't actually… This isn't my life. Shit…

I'm not even sure if thinking this way is correct anymore, I mean, I never really experienced others worry about me, at least, not in such a direct manner. Outside Komachi of course. I guess it's because I had just come around to realizing that both Yukinoshita and Yuigahama cared for me as they hated seeing me getting hurt when I resolved things in the way I was good at, the old way… my way.

This just served to remind me how much I didn't belong in this world. And how I was only here because I was forced into that disgusting game by the God of Time, Deus Ex Machina.

I want my previous life back.

I turn at them, gazing at them blankly before raising a thumbs up, "I'm okay. I mean it."

They exchanged glances, Miura pouting, as did Shiromeguri, Harima seemed to believe me, and Aki seemed neutral. Yuuki let out a resigned sigh before scratching his head.

"Hachiman-kun," The otaku boy fixes his glasses, unexpectedly releasing a stoic presence. "A smile would help you in that argument, I mean, non-reactive characters are so hard to get sometimes. You need to show more reaction!" What nonsense was this guy spouting? "The secret behind cold characters is that at some point they release all their inner feelings, making everybody realize how passionate they truly were! Hinedere! You have to be a hinedere!"

"…I'm not a character of a story, idiot. I don't have tropes that describe my personality." I responded curtly. And what the hell's a hinedere? No wait, that's what Komachi used to call me! Still, what was it again?

"Mmm…" Harima folds one arm, his other hand under his chin as he seems to be reflecting, "That kind of character ain't too bad…"

"Just what the heck are you talking about?" Miura asks, irritated. Whoops, I almost got dragged into that conversation. I nearly became kin with the likes of Zamoikusa! Gross! Thank you Miura-tan for snapping me out of it.

I had to wonder though, the comment made by Harima, mmm, is this guy knowledgeable about manga and anime? Alright, a delinquent otaku, that's one I didn't expect, but I guess it's possible if he hangs out with Aki. The bespectacled guy even called him by his name, so there's that.

"Nothing important," I reply with a deadpan. "But like I said," I look at Yuuki and company, "I'm fine. Might need some rest, but I'll be better by tomorrow. So, see ya."

And as I turn around, Aki's voice echoes, "Hold it, Hachiman-kun. We were going to Yukihira's too. I still have business with you. I assume you read my message."

I did, but he doesn't need to know that.

"Is that right?" I raise an eyebrow, taking out my phone, "I was 'busy' by the time you sent it. So as you might imagine, I had my hands full."

Aki folds his arms, looking thoughtful, "I'm sure I sent you the message when classes ended. You weren't in class?"

"I was," I answered, glancing at Miura to see any reaction. I better not lie as she may accidently blow away my cover. "It probably arrived later. Whatever it was, can it wait? I owe these two an outing," I gesture at Shiromeguri and Miura who are back at my sides.

Miura seemed happy with that comment, she looked like a little kid being allowed to have dessert. Stop that, someone might get the wrong idea. Shiromeguri though, she still seems worried, which is the reason I have to do this.

I won't be the reason for their grief.

"Y'know," Harima's stomach growls loudly. Seriously, was your stomach planning to do that? This can't be a coincidence. I just know what's going to follow, seriously, it's such a cliché… "I haven't eaten nothin' since yesterday, and I'm broke. Might as well have Yukihira feed us for free."

Tch, this guy… That was a double negative there you idiot. And the worst of all is that I was thinking just the same, at least in the grammatically correct way.

I have to admit, I am curious about how good Yukihira's cooking was as everyone talks about it being great, and adding the possibility of it being free food, if what his offer earlier in the morning was true. Free food is, after all, the best kind of thefood. Maybe he can cook me something I like.

Wait, did my brain just stop working for a moment there? I was never the type to get this excited for food like those shounen protagonists! But… Komachi did say that Belldandy's heavenly breakfast was almost as good as his, I can't be blamed for my spark of curiosity.

"I-if your friends don't m-mind u-us tagging along…" Adds Yuuki, and Shiromeguri smiles brightly. No, don't say it, Senpai!

"We don't! You three are more than welcome to join us!" I made the mistake of underestimating Megu-Megu-Megurin's far more developed social personality. Honestly, she's a nice person.

Harima raises a thumbs up, grinning, while Aki and Yuuki exchange glances of relief. Well, now that she said that, I guess I can't complain. I'm surprised that Miura didn't make any objection though.

"Oi, you okay with this?" I grumble softly so the others wouldn't hear, and she blinks. Hopefully, her usual Fire Queen personality can get me out of this.

"A-ah, sure. I… I want to know the type of guys you hang out with, you know?" I see her twirl her hair, averting her eyes in a shy manner. Strike out, huh?

I sigh once more and turn towards the road ahead. I have a bad feeling about this.

Now that I think about it. Did Miura completely forget about Yuuki's introduction? Well, can't say he didn't have it coming. That guy really is hopeless.

Seriously, what does that Haruna girl see in that idiot?

3-3

"Hehe, I knew you'd come, but I didn't think you'd bring so much company."

I roll my eyes at Yukihira's comment, "That makes two of us. Didn't expect this either."

Standing outside the family Restaurant Yukihira, the owner, Yukihira Souma, had apparently already closed for the day. The redhead was grinning at us before his gaze landed on the females of our group. As he looked at both Miura and Shiromeguri, he instantly turned to me with a startled look. It was pretty obvious, his staring that is, but I didn't make it easy for him, standing behind the others as I always do.

All I can figure is that Yukihira was also aware of the bad treatment my previous self gave to Miura, and the fact that I never spoke, much less hung out with Shiromeguri. Noticing my cocked eyebrow, Yukihira coughed into his hand, regaining his composure.

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 03 Section: Song 02

---

"Y-yeah, come in! Friends are always welcome!" Yukihira steps to the side, motioning us to go inside as he slides the door open. Is that a wise thing to do there? Nepotism tends to lead to ruin, especially at a place of business. But I won't decline the offer of free food.

"Sup, Yukihira. I'm hungry as hell!" I hear Harima call out loud as he stomps inside. Well, I suppose he really is a freeloader. But I'm not really one to talk.

"Kenji-kun, that was pretty jerkish… but I suppose it's part of your character," Aki points out. Oi, we're not in a game or anime. Quit categorizing people. "Hey, Souma-kun. Hope we're not intruding."

"Of course not, the more the merrier," He grins, closing the door behind us after we enter. "Miura, Shiromeguri, good to see you guys again. Been some time, eh?"

"Yeah," Miura nods, "Since you, like, closed the restaurant, right?"

Shiromeguri puts a finger on her chin, "I think so… Yukihira-kun mentioned that his father left suddenly to another country if I'm not mistaken."

Alright, Yukihira knows these two personally. How so, that's beyond me. I'll keep my mouth shut and let them talk. I take a seat as they continue to talk. Yuuki sits in front of me with Aki to his right, luckily my seat is on the edge towards the windows, however Miura and Shiromeguri take their seats to my left.

Where's the deliqu— Oi, oi, why are you going into the kitchen? This is exceeding the limits of trust, you know? I'd kick you straight out of the restaurant if it were mine!

"…Haha, that's right," My attention returns to my classmate and senpai. "I bet you missed two of your best clients, Yukihira-kun!"

Oh, so they know each other because of how often they've eaten here. Figures.

"Hey, don't let the others hear you. They might just get jealous about that!" Yukihira's joke seems to draw out a laugh from the others. Even Aki and Miura have smiles of amusement. I remain quiet as they begin their small-talk, uncomfortable at this warm atmosphere. I just couldn't understand it. These guys were seriously my friends?

Yukihira aside, I don't know what my alter-ego saw in the others that warranted the title of friendship. Yuuki was a spineless idiot, Aki was an eccentric otaku ーpossibly worse than Zaimokuzaー and while I'm the last person to talk about appearances, I would have never thought to even interact with someone like Harima.

"Seriously? Yo, Hikigaya!" I hear Yukihira call out in an exasperated tone.

"What is it?" Whoops, looks like I was unconsciously looking away in a bored manner.

"You got in another fight?" He asks. This again? How many times am I going to have to deal with this question today?

Tired at this constant question, I simply give him a vague shrug. I just want to get my meal and head home already.

"He totally got in a fight! He said he totally fought, like, six of them!" I hear Miura yell out in high spirits. I notice Shiromeguri nodding with a helpless smile.

I appreciate your excitement, Miura, but please calm down. We may be the only people here, but it's still pretty embarrassing having my actions be broadcasted in that manner. Just look how they're looking at us!

And there were only five of them.

Yukihira smirked, resting a hand on my shoulder. Don't people realize that doing so is completely pointless? I'm not the type that enjoys being touched either, it's really annoying actually.

"Wow, Hachiman, that's impressive." Yuuki says admiringly. You already knew that idiot, stop acting, "You usually hate fighting more than four," I notice Yuuki smiles nervously as he looks at the girls, "Among other things..."

I narrow my gaze at him, what's that supposed to mean?

"By the way Souma-kun, surely you remember that I'm still counting on you for the next trip. The team needs our nutritional cook to stay focused on the job," Aki says, his tone serious. I guess he's really into his game.

"Hai, hai, Tomoya," Yukihira waves his hand dismissively. "You don't have to remind me every time we see each other, you know?"

Harima suddenly sits near us, eating rice from a bowl in a dumb manner. Oi, you didn't steal that, right?

As he munches the food, he speaks, "Heol yweah! Foof is whaf we need!"

At least finish chewing before you speak, dammit. You're making a mess on our table.

"Well, can I get the rest of you the same as usual?" Yukihira pulls out a notepad and pen. Everyone gives their affirmatives, guess they're all regulars. I figured that I should go ahead and do the same, I'm not sure what my 'regular' is but as long as there are none of those cursed tomatoes, I'll be fine.

As I pondered on my food, Yukihira approached the counter to get the condiments. For some reason he paled, albeit briefly and coughed into his mouth, regaining his composure. What was that about? …Whatever, it's free food so anything he has ready for me will do.

"Ah, su—" I start.

"S-so, Hachiman, what'll you have? You interested in what we had for the special today?" I look up in confusion at his stutter. He had a nervous smile, and gestured at the sign right behind him. I'm not in much of a mood to try random dishes, I just want to get this over with already.

"Not really. I'll ju—" I try once more, looking away.

"Are you sure? You might like it, you know?" Tch… Quit interrupting me, and let me order my food already. He was still gesturing at the sign with a stiff smile. Hah… I give a half-hearted glance at it. When I see the special, I feel my eyebrow twitch in irritation.

"Are you serious?" I ask flatly.

"H-huh?" Yukihira's nervous smile falters at that. Did he not notice what his own sign says? Was he really the overseer of a restaurant?

"It has tomatoes," I lean my head on my hand. I'm sure the Hachiman of this world is civilized enough to share my hatred of that accursed failure of a fruit.

"W-wha? Oh… Hehe, oops. I forgot that it was today's special." He looks sheepish, as he realizes his mistake. But seriously, it's called Tomato Nabe. What else did you think it was?

"Ne, you don't like tomatoes?" I lazily look over at the curious Miura. Excuse me, but why do you look so interested? Could it be… You're planning on the major event of sharing a bento!? Please don't, my poor heart won't be able to take it.

"Ah? Yeah, I can't stand them." I give her my reply.

"Y-yeah, I don't particularly care for them either, you know?" She smiles as she looks away happily. What the hell? Stop acting so cute.

"…Is that right?" I mutter, before noticing the tense expression on Yukihira, who, with folded arms, stood right next to me. You got a problem?

"Ahaha… I should probably get to your meals," He scratches his head, finally heading to the kitchen, "I just hope that… Machida-san was able to find her Metronome in the back."

Hoh… Making others work after hours? Oi, Yukihira, you're not a tyrant boss, are you?

Wait, what's a metronome doing in a restaurant? I notice the girls next to me and Yuuki look on in utter confusion. Good thing I'm not the only one who's lost here. Harima's off in his own world, eating his bowl of rice.

"Right…" Is all I can mutter. Hey, wait he didn't take my or—

"Puah!" I blink, tearing my gaze back towards the otaku in surprise. He looked to have apparently choked on some water and spit it out… that's disgusting. Aki coughed heavily as some sort of realization dawned on his face as his glasses somehow managed to crack. What the hell? I look around. Did I miss something?

"Oi… The hell's wrong with you?" Harima asks while Shiromeguri, having gone up to the otaku in worry, softly patted the still coughing Aki on the back. She seriously does worry about everybody, I can't imagine how she can keep that up without tiring. That kindness of yours may bring you problems in the near future, you know?

Aki manages to compose himself, giving Shiromeguri a reassuring smile. But I did notice how tense his body still remained, so I could tell something was still up.

My bubbly senpai didn't seem to catch that as she returned to her seat, Aki pocketing out another pair of glasses. I have no idea how you broke the previous ones, but, how many pairs do you have? Were you actually planning on ruining your last ones?

"Oh… Eh…" Aki turns to Yukihira, who was in the kitchen. As their eyes met, the redhead quickly made a motion of the kitchen knife he held with his left towards the counter. Hmm…? The condiments? What?

Yuuki stands up and walks to the counter, grabbing a soy sauce bottle and a tiny container that was filled with pepper, "Did you need this?"

I'm not sure that was it. Why would Aki panic over some soy sauce? Both he and Yukihira are acting pretty suspicious right now.

"Ah, no… That's not…" Aki weakly protests, staring anywhere but where Yuuki is.

"Huh? But you guys we— UWAH!" Yuuki looked confused before his eyes caught something, causing him to jump back in pure terror before tripping.

"Yuuki-kun? What's wrong?" Shiromeguri asks, Miura furrows her brows in confusion.

As the idiot pales, he steps back, exchanging glances with Yukihira, who purses his lips awkwardly and nods grimly. What's with these guys so suddenly? All I can think is that there's something by the counter. Does this restaurant have mice or something? Probably not, it might be something else.

"N-n-nothing!" He returns to his seat and grabs the menu list, hiding his horrified face behind it, "T-There's so many dishes! W-what s-should I choose?"

You're already getting your order, idiot. Though now I'm sure. There's something amiss.

They're obviously hiding something, and I bet it's related to what Yukihira commented before heading to the kitchen. However, I have no idea who that Machida person is, but the metronome part… That's the weirdest thing, it has nothing to do with restaurants. Was it a code word for something else?

Harima shrugs his shoulders, "Ignore 'em. He's probably all nervous about Big Sis and Blondie."

"Don't call me blondie!" Miura growls out.

"Tch," Harima fixes his sunglasses dramatically. "Are all blondies this annoying?" And while Aki looked ready to refute, he added, "Shut it. Sawamura-sensei is a lousy chick too and guess what, a blondie."

Ignoring the just mentioned name, I'm not sure if I can agree with him. The stereotype of blonde girls is always portrayed in a way to make them look wealthy, spoiled and irritating. It's just so normal in these times to see the blonde character as the more unlikeable sort, but it's nowhere near true in actual life. I mean, Miura isn't so bad once her Fire Queen mode is extinguished and Hayama… Well, who cares about that idiot anyways?

"Haaah!? You want to, like, repeat that?" Harima you idiot, while Miura did sort of prove you right about being irritable, even I know that you don't say that sort of thing in front of one from the female population. That's just begging for trouble. Look! She's glaring because of you! Fix it! Fix it right now!

"…" Harima remains silent. He looks away with a grimace as he breaks into cold sweat. Oi, I understand that sort of reaction to the Fire Queen's terrorizing gaze, but doing it will onl—

"I'm, like, totally talking to you." Miura spits out.

…Piss her off… Geez, the tension between these two is almost palpable. Looking around I see Yuuki staring out the window in pure terror, wait, don't do that, you're going to scare someone outside with that expression of yours. Aki has also averted his gaze, fixing his glasses while also having broken out in cold sweat. My poor senpai looks completely helpless right now, having no idea how to calm down a very annoyed Miura Yumiko. And Yukihira… he's in his own world cooking… Why was he wearing a bandana?

Honestly… Am I going to have to figure something out? I really don't want to… Hah~ It really is a burden to be the greatest type of person ever~!

No, wait. I seriously don't want to do this. I have to point out that the fact that Miura had even managed to intimidate someone with the looks of Harima is horrifyingly amazing. She's truly scary when she wants to. Why would I purposefully subject myself to that kind of trauma?

"Yumi-chan…" Shiromeguri suddenly pulls Miura's cheek as she stands at her side with a look of disapproval. We all look in surprise as Miura becomes red in embarrassment. "Stop acting like that. We're supposed to be having a good time here."

Whoa, this might be the first time I see Megu Megu Megurin act as a senpai instead of her bubbly self, but that's not what is startling. The fact that someone could lecture Miura during her Fire Queen mode was something I never thought I'd see… ever.

"Meguriiii! Quit pulling my cheek, it hurts!" Miura whines childishly, pushing her friend away, "He's the one that started it, you know?"

"Really, Yumi-chan," She frowns as if chastising a younger sibling, "You're overreacting."

As my senpai's lecture continues, I feel someone nudging my arm. I looked blankly at Aki, who leaned across the table to whisper something, "This is incredible. To see Sobu's Legendary Fire Queen in this kind of state. Shiromeguri-senpai must have allotted most of her points in charisma."

He was correct by all means. Shiromeguri was just exceptional at socializing, even with those like Miura Yumiko, or Harima Kenji. It's a bit refreshing to witness the extent of Shiromeguri's capabilities when she directs her charming personality towards those that are actually the opposite.

But still, quit using video game terms to describe the real world. Or at least, keep it to yourself.

"Hehe," I see Harima chuckling with arms folded. "You sure know how to pick 'em, huh?" Seriously, I don't want to hear that from you.

"Here it is!" Yukihira suddenly appears before our table, holding a tray. I blink as he lays several dishes on the table. While my knowledge was a bit limited, I could recognize the tomato nabe, the beef stew and, wow, the roasted steak looked amazing. Was that mine, even after he completely ignored my attempts at ordering? Hmph, I'll forgive you for your previous antics this time, Yukihira.

Harima and Yuuki were close to drooling, even I could feel my mouth watering at the sight of such a splendid banquet. Miura and Shiromeguri were staring, cheeks red, at the food before them. Huh, could it be that the trick behind calming a wild beast like the Fire Queen is actually food that looked this good? It also proved itself successful during lunch, didn't it?

"As expected of the official cook of Blessing Software," Aki states seriously, not looking at anybody in particular. "Chiba's proud chef, Yukihira Souma!" Somehow, that sounded like some sort of character's presentation from an anime. Stop speaking like that, you're just making a fool out of yourself.

"Happy to serve!" Yukihira says with a smirk, before patting Aki's back in a comforting manner, "But I didn't say I'd join you, Tomoya. I'll have to return to Tokyo in a few days, idiot."

The bespectacled boy shook his head, standing and raising a fist, "Matters not, Souma-kun! Your place in the team will remain intact until your return! Our dreams may lead us to different paths, but as long as our hearts seek the same goal, we'll…"

I tune out the senseless blabber of the otaku, my eyes focusing on the dish before me. I gulp in expectation, my tongue ready to taste the exquisite meal that lets out an intoxicating, yet addictive aroma. Wait… What the hell? These stupid thoughts keep popping up for some reason… Since when have I used such elaborate words to describe food?

Everyone seemed in some sort of trance as they kept observing Yukihira's dishes carefully. I cough, and grab my set of chopsticks, making everybody return to reality.

"C'mon guys, eat to your heart's content," Yukihira states, his fist crashing with Harima's in a sign of friendship. "I made plenty, so dig in!"

"Thanks for the meal!" Everyone said with far more excitement than I could be bothered to display. Though, seeing the food, I can't really blame them.

After that, everyone begins to eat their food in sync. Well, besides me at least. My cat's tongue doesn't allow me to eat yet. Might as well get some soy sauce while I let it cool down.

As I made my way to the counter, Yukihira put a hand on my shoulder. I turned to him with a bothered face, yet I found myself surprised to see the stern expression he sported, "Be careful, the condiments might be a little… spicy."

I cock an eyebrow as he lets my shoulder go, folding his arms and nodding. That seems overly serious for some condiments, doesn't it?

Reaching the counter, I observe the bottles briefly, finally finding the one with soy sauce. Great, hopefully my meal has cooled down slightly enough for me to enjoy it with this. Upon gripping the bottle of soy sauce, I notice something unsettling.

Let me put it simply, there was something that shouldn't be there just behind the counter. Is that someone's head? Wait, that's a hairband, isn't it? I narrow my gaze, leaning to get a better view before I blink in surprise, the bottle bumps against the table and slips from my grasp, falling to the ground. It breaks on impact and spills its content.

Everyone turns to me, and I try to calm myself, "Uh, my bad. The bottle slipped." Yukihira throws a piece of cloth at me. I grab it by instinct.

"You might as well clean it," He says, subtly glancing at Miura. "We wouldn't want a mess occurring inside my restaurant, right? Take your time."

Harima laughs, "Haha! Hikigaya, ya damn klutz!"

Miura glares at him, making Harima sweatdrop, "Shouldn't you be, like, worried, he could have cut himself with it. Hmph… Sometimes guys are just so…" She stands up, and both Aki and Yuuki stand in her way.

"Y-your f-food w-will g-g-get c-cold!" Yuuki stammers.

"Y-yeah, it would be disrespectful to let the food that Souma-kun made for us to get cold," Aki adds, yet Miura only needed to harden her gaze to make them pale. Oi, where does that leave me?

I can somehow see what they're trying to do, but why? Who's the person that's hiding behind the counter anyway? I was about to make a comment about it before Yukihira clears his throat, earning the focus in the room.

"You're okay, right, Hachiman?" He looks a bit bothered, "You don't mind… cleaning that up, do you? It'd be best if… you do it."

I stare at him in befuddlement before slowly nodding my head, "…It was my fault in the first place, so it's fine," I turn around and gaze over my shoulder, "Don't worry, I'll be quick. You must be hungry so go on ahead."

"Mmm…" Miura made a humming sound, signaling that she wasn't happy, yet she relented, heaving a sigh.

"There's a dustpan and a brush there, too," Yukihira adds before pushing Miura back to her seat. "C'mon! I want to hear your thoughts, Miura." He grins and Miura is startled at his bright tone. "I'll keep his food warm so he can enjoy it later. No worries about that."

Shiromeguri smiles in agreement, "Yukihira-kun is right, Yumi-chan."

"I'm so glad to be alive!" Harima suddenly shouts, tears flooding down under his sunglasses, "This is the freakin' best!" I cock an eyebrow as he rampages through his bowl.

With Harima eating, the rest follow, and they all start putting odd and embarrassing faces, the girls pressing their legs together under the table for some reason… I'll ignore that terrifying implication.

Well, taking into account the indirect messages Yukihira gave me, I can only assume that he wants me to deal with this hidden person for some reason. I would have ignored this, but my brain is telling me to heed his words.

I walked inside the counter, taking a better view of the unexpected presence, who turned out to be a girl. She crouched on the ground, legs bent and hands resting over her knees, while her back rested on the inner part of the counter. Her strangely red eyes were directed at me in the form of a glare. I was taken aback, but quickly regained my composure, glancing sideways to make sure the others were focused on their food.

Shiromeguri kept giving Miura bits from her own plate, so at least they were both distracted. Yuuki, Aki and Yukihira, gazed at me from the corner of their eyes as they continued their meal. I sigh in relief and kneel, shards of the soy sauce bottle remaining between me and the girl.

Before starting to clean, I quietly take a moment to study the girl in front of me. By all means, she was attractive. From what I could tell, she had a slim figure. Initially, I thought I was mistaken, but her eyes were unmistakably red, a vivid scarlet red. The intense gaze of hers made it far more unsettling, which is why I tried to steer clear of making direct eye contact.

The girl has long black hair, reaching her back, a white headband adorning the top of her head. That daunting look of hers held some sort of familiarity, something I've seen elsewhere.

She sported a dark-colored sailor school uniform, and black stockings… oh… there's soy sauce stains on them. I can assume that's the reason for her glare.

"…" I'm unsure of what to say at first, "Well… Sorry about that," I start cleaning, using the cloth to absorb the soy sauce, carefully doing it as to not cut myself with the shards of glass.

The girl remained silent, only watching me with a flat expression.

Eventually, I hear her voice whisper, "I knew it…"

I raise an eyebrow. What could she be talking about? And come to think of it… why's a girl hiding in Yukihira's restaurant anyway?

Mmm… Could it be that she has a secret relationship with Yukihira? It would explain her decision to hide here, perhaps in response to our unexpected arrival at the restaurant. Is it really so controversial for two high school students to date? Well, considering Yukihira is a first-year student and she appears older, that might be the reason behind it.

"I, uh, won't say anything," I mutter. "It's none of my business." And as I was about to resume the cleaning, I raised my gaze. She's frowning.

"So… You are casting me aside, Ronriteki-kun. Shame on you."

I stop in that instant, a feeling of dread invading all my senses. My muscles tense, my breath halts, my eyes widen. There was only one person that had called me that since I woke up in this crazy reality, and that was Kasumigaoka Utaha. She's the girl I spoke to over the phone this morning, right?

Ow! I jolt at the sudden pain. Looking at my hand, I notice I had cut myself with a piece of the bottle. Soon, some blood makes its way out of the wound. However, this was not my worry at the current moment.

Considering what I learnt throughout the day, Miura won't be happy to know that I'm on a first name basis with a girl. After all, I refused to do it when Miura asked during lunch break.

Now, putting that aside, why is Kasumigaoka really hiding behind the counter of Yukihira's restaurant?

This situation is undeniably problematic, and it's bound to cause a huge misunderstanding! Now, I understand why the others were behaving so strangely. I can somewhat appreciate their intentions, but what kind of warning was that? It's likely they're familiar with Kasumigaoka, and if my memory serves me right, didn't the author hint that it was surprising I was speaking to Miura after a specific incident? It happened during a call earlier in the day.

Yukihira's words suddenly splash into my mind like a bucket of cold water.

"You might as well clean it. We wouldn't want a mess occurring inside my restaurant, right? Take your time."

Yukihira wasn't referring to the soy sauce. He even glanced at Miura briefly while saying that… So that means there's bad blood between the two of them. How and why, I'm not sure.

---

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

---

Damn it… It's things like this that keep reminding me that I don't know anything about this world. I really need a good source of information now that I'm stuck here… Yukihira looks to be a promising one. I'm going to have to speak with him some day when no one's around so I can ask him about my life in this world and any matter related to my other self. He seems to be the one who knew the former Hachiman best. But how can I ask without giving away that I'm not from this world?

"What happened to your eyes?" I blink, Utaha's whisper reaching my ears.

Well, I can conclude with total resolution that my most visible trait is my dead-fish eyes if my previous interactions with my world's Snow Queen hadn't already taught me that. There's not one person that hasn't pointed them out this entire day… Or yesterday. Bah…

"You… What are you doing here?" Ignoring her question, I ask my own, "I told you I couldn't meet with you, didn't I?"

"Liar…" She says, almost quietly, "You said you had something important to do…" Furrowing her brows, she adds, "More important than getting a copy of the first volume of my next series…"

"Did I?" I looked upward, as if thinking, "Well, things happened."

"You have bruises… So you got in another fight," She sighs before continuing, "Did someone hit you in the eyes? Maybe that's why they're like that," She asked and I couldn't help but cringed internally.

While her voice carried a soft and worried tone, she still managed to say something really mean there… My eyes are just like that, dammit. If something hit them I'd be blind.

"That's not how that works…" I mutter in exasperation. "Just…"

"Just…" She tilts her head slightly, crimson orbs staring intently. "What?"

"Look. We both know how these things work. I try to explain, you retort loudly, then things go bad," I pinch the bridge of my nose, "Let's just skip all of that. I'll pretend I didn't see anything and just get back to the others."

Utaha glares at me, "You'd like that, wouldn't you?" She fixes her hair, seemingly uninterested, but that's obviously not the case. "This is worrying… You've never been so inconsiderate before. I can only assume something happened." She tilts her head again, but to the opposite side, "Would you at least care to explain why that Miura woman is with you?"

Oh dear… that was the one thing I hoped she didn't ask.

"Well…" I began, but my voice faded, my mind drawing a blank. I couldn't come up with anything at all.

"Aren't I so nice? Giving you a chance to explain yourself, Ronriteki-kun. Use it wisely."

Okay, it seems she's more curious about me being here with Miura than the fact that I blew her off. Judging by her sharp tone, I'll need to exercise extreme caution with my answer. If I can provide a clear explanation, maybe she won't make a scene. Still, it's annoying that I have to justify my own life to a complete stranger.

"I got in a fight, she found me and took me to the nurse's office. She's a classmate, so my homeroom teacher asked her and Shiromeguri to look after me," I elaborate, managing to piece together a rather convincing story. "I ran into the others, got hungry, and finally, we came here." I start cleaning the floor again, "That's all. Happy?"

She stares at me, "Not particularly." She changes her position, placing her legs to the side. Oi, is it just me, or does every motion this girl takes ooze seduction? It somehow looked like that. Yet another dangerous woman has crossed my path… How many of them were there already?

"How did you know I'd come here?" I ask, still focused on picking the pieces of the bottle and putting them in the dustpan.

"You'd thought I wouldn't? How silly, Ronriteki-kun," She giggles, and I raise my head to look back at her. "I know you more than you think." I feel a shiver run down my spine. That's actually really scary there…

"I wonder…" I comment, keeping my sarcastic tendencies from leaking.

She smiles, "It wasn't that difficult to figure it out. Yukihira-kun was in Chiba, so I knew you'd come here eventually."

Hoh… She actually predicted it? Not bad I guess. Well, it's rather frustrating that there's another person that's apparently close enough to me to guess my actions. So that is still bad in retrospect.

"So basically, you came to Yukihira's restaurant, hid here, to see what I was up to?" I simplified her actions with the data gathered, "What, don't trust me, Utaha?"

Her face turned crimson, and she let out a little yelp, quickly covering her mouth with her hands. Gotta admit that was undeniably cute, and sort of funny. Err… nonetheless, it was rather embarrassing… Quit giving me that look! My heart won't last too long with such a fierce attack!

Shit! Now that I think about it, this girl was a bit loud just now! I raised my head over the counter, Yuuki was waving his arms frantically, keeping everyone's attention to himself. Yukihira turns his head to me, sending a thumbs up.

Safe… Good.

"R-Ronriteki-kun…" I blink… What was this queer sensation I felt? I return my attention to the weird girl that was… Gah!

"O-oi!" I immediately backed away from her, teeth gritted, landing on my backside.

My cheeks burn like if set ablaze, with a trail of cold sweat moving down my forehead. I stared in disbelief at the bold woman, who with the same flushed face, stared back right into my eyes.

"W-what the hell are you doing!?" I stutter out indignantly.

It's not everyday a boy is able to have a girl like Utaha suck on his finger, or any girl for that matter. Much less with that kind of expression! Where did that disinterested and dry cover go?

"Mmm… Soy sauce and blood mixed taste funny," Utaha lowers her gaze, delicately putting a finger on her mouth.

Don't say that kind of thing with a smile, dammit!

I notice her resting a hand on the floor, while the other makes contact with my shoe. My gaze shifts to her face and then down to her hand, which lingers on my leg before gradually beginning to creep upwards.

This girl may be just as bad as this world's Haruno!

I restrain her by grabbing her wrist, my breathing is erratic as is hers. My heart is pumping blood at 150 kilometers an hour. What the hell am I going to do!? I have to get out of this situation immediately! But I have no place to go, and the others are still…

Still…

The blood in my face almost immediately drains.

Wait…

I don't… hear anything…

Anymore…

I slowly turn my head, practically hearing it creak, and raise my gaze to the top of the counter. From there, Miura, Harima and Shiromeguri stared at us in utter shock. Behind them I could see Aki and Yukihira facepalming, while Yuuki grabbed his head, looking pale.

Yes, I know, this doesn't look good. But it really isn't what it looks like! I was merely restraining Kasumigaoka from doing whatever she intended, yet, in the eyes of others, it may just seem like an intimate scene between the two of us.

My previous embarrassment was gone, replaced by utter dread. Alright, first was the weird circumstances created in my house, courtesy of my family and two freeloaders, and now this…

Round two… Fight!

Now I sound like that otaku… Wonderful…

I stand up, the surprisingly bold girl following. I then blink, startled, if only because of Miura's face. I expected her to be mad, or to glare daggers at me, yet, her widened eyes only shimmered as she looked on. Shiromeguri, in contrast, stared at me blankly.

I can't stand this. Their expressions… I know what they are, I know what they meant, and they came from the two I'd never imagined would come from. Why do I keep forgetting I'm not in my world!? These circumstances stink to high heaven! Maybe the Belldandy's folks can sense it! Damn you for casting this misfortune upon me!

"Uhh… what's goin' on?" Asks Harima, scratching his head in confusion. I didn't expect him to be the first to ask, "Who's the chick?"

Harima doesn't know her? Wait, I shouldn't be focusing on that, I have more pressing matters to attend to.

"Mmm?" Utaha raises a brow, amused, "Aren't you the author of the manga that Ronriteki-kun gave me?" She tilts her head, looking the delinquent over, "You certainly look like the main character of it."

Harima frowns, or that seems at least. I only look absentmindedly, "Oi, Hikigaya," He points a finger at the noirette, "You gave my manga to this girl? Didn't I tell you I wanted Kasumi Utako to read it and give me a review?"

Utaha folds her arms, eyes closed, "Hmph! Don't you know that pointing people like that is disrespectful?"

"Whatever. Hikigaya…" Harima's face hardens, he looks rather scary… This can't be good. "You were supposed to give it to Kasumi-sensei!"

Didn't this guy realize it? Aki takes a few steps forward, fixing his glasses, "He apparently did, Kenji-kun. She is the legendary Kasumi Utako, after all."

Harima becomes silent, realization hitting as his jaw drops to the ground… Are we in some kind dumb gag anime? I don't need those lame tropes invading my daily life, the otaku is going to be insufferable pointing them out.

Utaha's brow tenses, "Didn't I tell you to not poi—"

"Stop ignoring us!"

A high pitched voice echoed in the restaurant, every person inside turning to the source where it originated. Silence followed, every set of eyes directed at Miura Yumiko. The degree of surprised expressions varied, although Harima looked at her with a raised eyebrow, while the rest gaped. Ignorance is bliss, huh?

I was part of those gaping, of course, as I had just forgotten what was the main problem in my unwanted situation.

Utaha's startleness is replaced by a dry look, "Oh, you were there Miura-san. As always, your lack of manners is… refreshing, yet unwanted…"

Uh oh… Here it comes…

Whatever trace there was of fragility in Miura's face is gone in an instant. Fire Queen Mode is on, with a vengeance I'm afraid. Well, Ayanokouji, you're probably dead set to win this game now, seeing as how I'll probably die here.

"Unwanted?" Miura repeats with a scowl, "The only unwanted thing here is you, Kasumigaoka! We were, like, having a great time 'til you showed up!" Her green eyes were cold. I can actually feel the room temperature dropping! Yuuki and Aki are sweating in fear, but it's to be expected.

"Is that so?" Utaha turns to me, "Ronriteki-kun, is that true, or are they merely delusions on her part?" I feel their expectation pressuring my poor heart.

I look frantically between them, trying to find my voice, and all that comes is…

"Uh…"

"Don't make me laugh," Miura assumes a haughty posture, "Aren't you, like, the one being delusional?" I see Shiromeguri pulling the Fire Queen's arm from her blazer, yet she doesn't seem to notice it. I appreciate your efforts Shiromeguri, but please stop. I don't want innocent casualties to get dragged into this. "Maybe the pressure of your deadlines are, like, making you paranoid."

Utaha's calm demeanor seems to be fading by each passing second as her red eyes start to glare at my classmate. She's losing it, isn't she?

"Kasumigaoka-senpai…" Aki starts, raising his hands as if to calm them, yet he's completely ignored.

"I don't want to hear that from a witch who uses expensive makeup to cover her insecurities!" Miura's brow twitches. Oh dear me… Somebody stop them!

"What did you say, bi—"

Harima stands between them, "Oi, oi. You two are taking this too fa—"

Zero absolute fell on the room as they both gave him the most terrifying glares I've seen in my entire life. He's going to get killed! Harima, you tried your best. I'll remember you for that!

"SHUT UP!" They both sneered before refocusing on one another.

I sweatdrop, watching a chibi version of Harima skip away, "Haiiiiiiii~"

…How the hell did he do that? No, forget about that, Hachiman.

"I don't know why I should be surprised. You're merely trying to hog all the attention for yourself, as usual." Utaha walks around the counter standing before Miura. She's not going to hit her, right? As I feel the worst about to come, Utaha tilts her head and sits on top of the counter, crossing her legs. Oi, that's dangerous…

I hear a strange noise behind me and instinctively turn around, only to witness a scene that's entirely inappropriate given the circumstances. Yuuki's nose had spontaneously started bleeding, and Aki, who was also blushing, was offering him a handkerchief. This isn't the right time, you idiots! Stop thinking about stupid things!

Yukihira watched the unfolding situation with a troubled expression, but made no attempt to intervene. Doesn't he realize how serious this is? Yukihira, you should be worrying about your restaurant! It might seriously be blasted into smithereens soon!

---

Go to profile, SEE: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 03 Section: Picture 02

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Miura's face morphs into a haughty expression, "Jealous?"

"Not in the slightest. I don't resort to violence and threats to make people hang out with me."

I stare at the two, lost at what to say.

"…I beg to differ," Yukihira comments with a shrug, ignoring the short glare from Utaha. Miura now sports a smirk of victory. Well, I guess that's one point to Miura. On a side note, Yukihira, you shouldn't side with either of them. The loser of the match will surely kill you.

"See? Even some magazines showing interviews with you say that you're uncooperative and foul-tempered," The Fire Queen is on a roll, it seems… However, is that really true?

"Ara? You just sound like one of those detestable haters, Miura-san. Your type tends to pry into people's lives with the only intent of finding anything bad to use against creators like me," She rests a hand on her cheek, assuming an obviously fake smile. "Mm… Or maybe you're actually a closeted fan? How else would you know about that? Actually, there's only one magazine that had ever put such a comment on paper."

Which means that Miura should have researched the author Kasumi Utako in order to find out about that. Did she do it, or had she really just stumbled upon this information?

Miura's blink, followed by her flush indicates that this time Utaha got one point. Seriously…?

Utaha raised her head triumphantly, "Who would have thought that you were also a stalker, Miura-san?"

"Y-you… always have to do that, don't you?" Miura retorts, taking a few steps towards the counter. Wait, is she really going to try to hit her this time? "Talking down on people like you're better than them or something."

Aki approaches me from the side as they continue, whispering, "I'm actually glad now that Kasumigaoka-senpai rejected my proposal earlier. She seems to have the rare passive ability to cause clichéd infighting in circles that are about to implode."

That means that Aki had already started his project months ago, doesn't it? So why would he want Utaha to join by this point? Feh, whatever, it's not my business. It isn't important anyways.

"Besides, Miura-san, how ludicrous to think that someone might have a good time when you are around. There are plenty of rumors about Sobu's 'Fire Queen,' and none of them favor you. They seem to be true with what you've showcased. Even your clique has separated from you."

"H-how do you know that?" Yeah, how would she? She'd have no way to hear about it, unless…

Red orbs unsubtly fall on me before she continues, "A little bird might have mentioned it…" Miura widens her eyes in realization, her new focus… me. "Tell me honestly, besides Shiromeguri-san," Utaha knows of Shiromeguri? Wait, Student Council President, of course she does. "Can you honestly say you have any other friends?"

Finally I notice Yukihira react to the argument, although he seems rather angry.

"I-I have them…" Miura says weakly and lowers her head, "H-Hachiman is my friend too."

"Is he?" From her wide smirk, I can see Utaha is amused at her current position. But I think I caught her flinching when Miura said my name. "Since when? Just because a teacher told you to look after him today?" I stare at the ground helplessly, something building up inside my chest. This is going too far…

"Do you think if Hachiman-kun was your friend, he would have come to me laughing at how stupid he thought you were?"

"W-what?" Miura's brokenhearted voice barely eeks out, but Utaha doesn't let up.

"He hates you, Miura-san. He always has. Hachiman-kun told me about all your futile attempts of befriending him, even the fact that you dissolved your clique to just get close to hi—"

"Enough!" I said out loud.

I place my hand over my face as the rush of adrenaline fades, following my abrupt outburst. I couldn't hear this anymore. What kind of despicable person was my alternate self to treat Miura that way? He not only mistreated her on campus but also bad-mouthed her behind her back to others. Kasumigaoka isn't much better either, as she likely laughed at the expense of Miura's efforts.

But the type of person he was… That bastard.

Shiromeguri, Yuuki and Aki avert their eyes, fully knowing that Utaha had crossed a line. A returned Harima had remained silent as he leant over a wall with arms crossed, looking on in disapproval. However, Miura stood there, her face sporting a face of disbelief, yet tears soon began well up in her eyes.

"I-is that t-true, Ha-Hachiman?" She asks, her voice breaking.

What am I supposed to do? Should I go along with this farce? I wish I could tell her that it's all just a lie, which would be the truth on my behalf, but unfortunately, it would wind up as a lie due to my other self. This is already evident from how Kasumigaoka spoke, implying that she anticipated my support, yet…

"H-Hachiman…?" I grit my teeth hearing the pain in Miura's voice.

In the end, I couldn't say anything but glare at the ground.

Shiromeguri rushes to Miura who slowly falls to her knees, crying. Harima helps my senpai lead Miura to the table, who hugged Shiromeguri with all her might, her sobs destroying any hope I'd ever had of counting on her support.

Kasumigaoka was the most shocked by my sudden raise of volume, but soon, realization finally dawned on her. She placed a hand over her mouth, guilt becoming evident on her face. You think that's gonna help your case Kasumigaoka?

But I wasn't any better, letting this situation develop until such an unsalvageable point. I'm a curse to everyone in this world. My previous self disgusts me like no one ever has. The irony doesn't elude me.

She opens her mouth to speak, however…

"That's enough already," Yukihira declares sharply, stepping between us before facing Kasumigaoka, "Is this why you came here, Utaha? To cause this? I should have seen this coming… guess I should be the one to blame."

"S-Souma-kun, that's not—"

"Leave," He cuts her out, his voice commanding.

"Souma-kun, please, you know me. I simp—"

"Don't make me repeat myself," He turns his back to her and walks back inside the kitchen.

At that, Kasumigaoka gazes at Aki, yet he only turns his back to her and sits back at the table, where Shiromeguri consoled a sobbing Miura. Yuuki nervously averts his gaze away from her.

Finally, Kasumigaoka stands on her feet and walks up to me, her eyes hopeful. However, I refused to look at her. I felt like trash, she thought I would support such a disgusting act and my previous self probably would have, but I'm not that bastard, and I won't accept a person that would take part in such a thing.

"Hachiman-kun… Don't do this… W-why are you…" She starts before her voice fades, her raised hand trying to reach me fell limply as she dropped her gaze. "Could it be that all this was just a big misunderstanding on my part and you were actually toying with me…?"

I say nothing, looking away, she grabs a book I hadn't noticed until now, and throws it to the ground, before storming out of the restaurant, the slide door left open. Silence followed, only interrupted by Miura's sobs.

Looking down, I gaze at the book that was left behind. Was this what Kasumigaoka meant to give to me? I slowly pick it up, reading the title.

"My Youth Romantic Comedy Isn't As Wrong As I Expected."

'Isn't As Wrong,' huh, Kasumigaoka? But you're mistaken.

It was wrong, completely wrong.

3-4

"The food is getting cold. What are you doing here?"

"…"

I could only stare at the ground, silent. I was in the kitchen alongside Yukihira, who was currently washing some dishes. After the incident, I couldn't find it in myself to join everyone else at the table.

"When I told you to clean up the mess, I didn't think you'd let things go that bad." I hear him once more, finally eliciting a reaction from me.

"…That was out of my control…" I notice the chef sigh helplessly, as if expecting this as some sort of excuse. And I feel anger surge at that implication.

"So what? You didn't bring Miura for thi—" He tries to accuse.

"I didn't." I growl out dangerously, this time my sharp tone didn't surprise me.

I wouldn't do that sort of thing to anybody. No person, no matter how superficial, deserved that. Especially not Miura, she had her obvious flaws but she didn't deserve such a betrayal from my part.

It looks like my tone managed to surprise my companion, however. He paused in his work and looked over his shoulder with wide eyes.

"Seriously?" I ball my hands into fists, the sheer confusion in his voice pisses me off. That bastard other self of mine… What the hell was he doing?

"I…" I glared at the ground, "…Wouldn't do something like this…"

"That hasn't stopped you before," He pointed out with a raised eyebrow.

"…" I remain silent at that. I couldn't refute it because this was something he's seen from me before. Before I even showed up.

"I listened in whenever you and Utaha would talk about her here. Figured you would do something like this eventually, from what I heard between you two." He sighs as if disappointed.

"I didn't plan on this…" I say weakly, glaring at the floor once more.

"Well, you didn't do anything to stop it either." He states frankly.

I hate this, he's right, but I don't want him to be. Not because I want to avoid the truth, but because I don't want to hear this from someone who's practically a stranger to me.

"I thought it was surprising when I saw you were talking to her. Miura, I mean," He pipes up. I raise my head to indicate that I was listening, "Like Utaha said, I thought you hated her."

I don't respond right then, merely look out into the dining area. Everyone was still there, Aki and Yuuki are both sitting awkwardly, while Shiromeguri looks to be comforting a downtrodden Miura. Harima is the only one eating his meal, but his grimace gives away his own foul mood.

I feel a wave of guilt hit me as I look at my blonde classmate. What did I do? Rather, what did I fail to do? This poor girl was somehow pining for someone like me, and what did my other self do? He systematically ruined this girl's desired high school life and led her on for his own amusement. She held concerns for me that were far past shallowness.

Dare I say, this girl may have had… sincere feelings for me. And not only did I fail to answer them, I stomped all over them by not responding to her desperate pleas.

I couldn't let things remain as they were.

All Miura desired was to pursue the same thing I had in the past, although my opportunity was robbed from me. What sort of person would I be to sabotage her search for the genuine thing before it even started? It didn't matter that it could cause me trouble, I just felt a responsibility to set things right.

"Things change." I suddenly say as determination runs through me.

"Huh?" Yukihira looks over his shoulder in shock again. I ignore him, heading to the door.

"O-oi… Hachi—" I hear him stutter in surprise.

"Don't get involved," And with that, I leave the kitchen.

I take my time to reach the table, gathering my will and composure for what I need to do. But first thing's first, I need to get Miura alone. That is essential for my plan. I do hope that the nosy chef will keep his curiosity in check. I don't need him to start teasing me because of possible things that might be said. I'll put him in my unforgivable list if he does.

Once I reach the table, the sacks of testosterone stare up at me with varying gazes. Harima looks annoyed at my arrival, you got a problem? Aki on the other hand pushes his glasses up and observes me cautiously, and Yuuki looks uncharacteristically serious as he frowns at me. I take them in stride though, for their gazes held no meaning to me. I only felt a pang of guilt upon seeing Miura flinch at my proximity, while Shiromeguri looked at me with a disapproving frown. I'm sorry Senpai, this worthless kouhai of yours has disappointed you. But I can't allow them to damage my determination.

"Oi, you three," I see my fellow males blink up at me in curiosity. I look at them coldly before jabbing my thumb towards where Yukihira was. "Get out." I simply demand.

They exchange glances, looking startled. Whatever, hurry up and leave.

Harima is the first one to stand up, wearing a solemn expression. It seems he has something to say, but I don't let him speak. Wasting time with him was the last thing I wanted right now.

"Oi, Harima, didn't you leave your bike back at Sobu?" He freezes when he realizes his blunder. He begins to pale before grabbing his head in horror.

"DAAAMMIIIIIIITTTT!" Harima sprints out the store in a gag-like manner.

It was a stupid thing to see, but at least he's gone. Looking back at the others I see Aki Tomoya silently follow the delinquent. Before leaving though, he nods at me. I turn to the only male remaining at the table, Yuuki Rito, my unwanted neighbor.

"Whatever you do, I'll remain your friend. But…" He looked surprisingly serious. I narrow my gaze, not expecting such a face on someone like him. "It doesn't mean that I'll always support you though, or even respect you for it."

With an impassive stare, I watch him leave. Huh, he was the last one I expected to hear that kind of thing from. Maybe if you were like this more often I would've actually cared for what you had to say.

I sigh heavily, steeling myself for what comes next.

"Hikigaya-kun…" I look back to see Shiromeguri stare at me with an uneasy frown. I internally wince at the fact that the normally happy girl is showing me such an expression. But that's nothing compared to the guilt that welled up within me once I saw Miura blankly stare at her plate of food.

"I need you to go too, Senpai," I hope that my voice sounds reassuring for the both of them, I want to ease their wariness of me, "I have to talk to Miura alone."

"But…" She glances in worry at her friend.

"Please, Senpai…" I softly say, I can't let things stay like this. "I won't… I'm not going to hurt her anymore than I already have."

She stares at me, and it strikes me that she was trying to decide what to do. I meet her gaze, I can't look away or else she won't believe me.

I have no idea what kind of expression I had, but it looks like it managed to convince her somehow.

"Okay…" She nods. I see her whisper something to Miura before giving an encouraging smile at her. It didn't work as well as she wanted for all she got in response from her close friend was a slow nod.

Shiromeguri finally stands up, casting one final worried glance at her friend. After that, she walks away, her eyes briefly meeting mine before she enters the kitchen. I understood the message in her last expression…

This was my only chance to make things up. Should I fail, I risk losing whatever bond we shared, which could ultimately prove to be a disadvantage for me.

While I still had that cursed game to win, I couldn't care less about it at the moment. All I wanted was for Miura to be at ease again, for she didn't deserve the pain she currently felt. I released another sigh, realizing that this was the moment of truth. Miura timidly lifts her gaze as I settle into a seat across from her.

"Yo…" I start lamely.

She blinks in response, but her bland gaze quickly returns to the table. I watch her for a few seconds, before releasing another sigh. It seems I'll need more than that to capture her attention.

"I…" I scratch the back of my head uneasily, "I know that an apology won't mean much."

Miura glances at me again. Looks like I'm on the right path, she's paying attention at least.

"…I hurt, no… You put your trust in me and I betrayed you…" I clench my fists as I think about what happened again. I feel disgust go through me once more when I remember that it was me that did this to her, "Saying 'sorry,' isn't good enough to make up for that. Still, I want you to know that…" I momentarily drop my gaze, "I…" I looked at her, green eyes finally on me, they seemed cold, but more accurately, guarded… "Things are different now."

She stares at me in silence, until… "They… are? You think I can believe that?" She drops her gaze, tears threatening to come out once more. "Are you trying to make fun of me again?" She wipes her tears with an arm, "If all of it was just a joke to you, then shut it. I don't wanna hear it."

Damn it… This is far more difficult to deal with than I anticipated. It just feels like I'm trying to apologize for the mistakes of another person when I'm the one who is innocent here, but… as the bearer of this otherworldly body, it is now my responsibility to right all the wrongs that came with this life.

"I won't, because that's not true," I reply sternly. I close my eyes to gather my thoughts before finally looking at her directly.

"It isn't…?" She asks, her weak voice full of doubt.

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 03 Section: Song 04

---

But how do I go about it?

Like I said, a simple apology is worth next to nothing; my previous self did something that is near unforgivable to Miura. It's impossible for me to pretend that I fully understood the extent of what I did to her, as I don't carry that guilt firsthand, though the blame was still placed on me.

To be honest, I'm angrier at what was done to her.

I truly sympathized with her emotions, and I wanted to properly apologize, but that really wasn't an option, because it would come as hollow no matter what I said. I can't convey the depth of guilt that should have been there.

So… where does that leave me?

Think about it, Hachiman, use everything that you learned in your brief time on this world. Use it all and help this girl stand back up… right the mistake our previous self made.

Not for yourself, but for her sake.

"Have you noticed?" I ask the girl, mulling my words, "The differences between the person I am at Sobu, and the one outside of it?"

I grasped for an answer, and this is what I came up with. I don't know how she will take it, if she'll even listen through it, but this is how I decided to respond to her.

A mixture of my own honest thoughts and manipulating whatever intent the Hachiman she had known. I had no respect for him, so I had no problem with it.

She remained silent, her eyes lowered, fingers intertwined as she searched for a response. Eventually, she lets out a sigh, averts her gaze away, and begins fiddling with her skirt. Her lips are pressed tightly together, and you can sense that realization is gradually coming to her. Still, she refrains from uttering a word.

So I gave her time, because this was no easy question to respond to.

"I… I don't understand…" She finally speaks, her voice so soft that I barely manage to hear, "What are you saying?"

"The day before," I began calmly, "You told me that you saw me as lonely at school, so what does it mean when it's the exact opposite outside of campus? In the past hour, look at how many other people call themselves my friend, that doesn't seem to follow how 'lonely' I am in Sobu, right?"

She blinks, her eyes showing me that I was still heading in the right direction, "That guy with the trench coat earlier… and Meguri now too… This is so confusing…" She mutters, "I was, like… totally surprised when Meguri wasn't afraid of you, like other girls were at school."

"Could you really count them?" I questioned her seriously, "You heard Shiromeguri-senpai earlier, today was the first time I actually spoke with her. And Zaimokuza, it's more of a convenience thing between us than actual friendship."

He didn't show interest in conversing past returning that stupid eroge to me, so whatever outcast bond he would say we shared in my world as a pretense to talk to me, wasn't as large of a factor here.

"I… guess…" She replies slowly, finally gazing at me, "But… what are you trying to say…?"

I hold back a sigh. I wasn't sure if I failed to get my point across, or if she truly didn't understand. Either way, displaying annoyance at that would serve no one.

"I'm trying to point out the polarizing aspects of myself," I say with a straight face, "I wasn't a friendless person, Miura, it's just that what happened in Sobu didn't matter to me before."

This is where I have to start threading the needle. I don't want to hurt her because that isn't my intention.

"'Before?'" She frowns, "Is… that different now?"

Instead of directly answering, I shift my gaze to the side and look outside of the restaurant. The sky was dark now.

"I said it earlier, but the attack today was probably something I deserved," I echo earlier words, "It wasn't simple bullying, they didn't want anything except to hurt me and run me out of Sobu."

Miura's eyes widened at that revelation, "Hachiman…"

"Had it been just about anyone except you and Shiromeguri-senpai who came across me, they probably would have turned a blind eye and I think you know that," I declared unceremoniously, "That's the sort of resentment I've garnered from our school."

She stares at me for a moment, disbelief painting her features.

"That's why it confused me…" I let some of my honest thoughts that I kept to myself leak, "When there were those that went against the public sentiment, I didn't get it…"

"…What about Saki?" She asks suddenly.

I had to keep my surprise from showing on my face at her unexpected question. Luckily, she was looking downcast again which kept her from seeing my reaction.

It caught me off guard for many obvious reasons, but I couldn't dwell on it or else I would get distracted. And that was the last thing I needed here.

"That's what I'm getting at," I say after I recovered, "I was used to the contempt of others but even so… It was odd to me to see the extent Shiromeguri-senpai would go for me regardless if I ignored her, how both Kawasaki and Zaimokuza interacted with me without a care, and you… Even though I would antagonize you, you still tried coming up to me. And I didn't understand."

"…I can't… really explain why I did to be honest…" Her fragile voice echoed in the restaurant's main room, "I guess it's that you changed everything for me, and I just wanted to get to know you better. Thinking all that, only to discover that you and that girl talked behind my back. You said you didn't understand, and still you did that to me."

"I know, I'm not excusing myself for what I did," I finally allow some of my frustration to leak out of my voice, "Maybe at one time, I thought I was justified in doing that to you, I honestly can't remember anymore because at some point it became less of some petty grievance and more of letting my own ignorance start dictating my actions. We fear what we don't understand, and I was pathetic enough to take it out on you instead."

I can see her hands gripping her skirt strongly, "I… I can handle what happened at school, but… the thought of you and that girl together…" Her voice began to break again, "Making fun of me… I c-can't…"

I had to pause at her words. What was she saying?

She was fine with dealing with being antagonized at school but the fact my previous self mocked her in private with Kasumigaoka was the bigger issue? There's a lot wrong with the first part as is, but why was being with the author so much worse?

No, I already knew why, I saw it this morning already.

"Are you jealous of Kasumigaoka?" I asked bluntly.

"I… I just don't know what to think anymore…" Says Miura weakly, shaking her head. "Kasumigaoka was always so close to you, and no matter what I did, I could never reach you, while she… " Her frown deepens… This must be very painful for her. "…She…"

I mull my words for a moment, to try and say something to assuage my classmate's insecurities.

"Kasumigaoka is…" I start slowly, "Someone I value."

I believe I have heard enough to consider that a fact, and it seems that Miura is aware of it too, judging by her avoidance rather than reacting as if it were news. While I might not know the full extent of the situation, there was one thing I was certain of…

"We aren't together," I declare assertively, "We share a long story with each other, but we aren't in a relationship."

He can be low, but even I don't think my previous self would be a two-timer considering whatever current relationship he had with Haruno.

"Is… that really the truth…?" She releases a long sigh she seemed to be holding, her eyes closed, "I saw the way she looks at you… she wants you for herself…"

Remembering the sensations of the author's mouth on my finger, I almost shudder. Don't I ever…?

"That doesn't matter," I say adamantly, "The fact is, that we aren't a couple."

"Okay…" She nods, green orbs finally meeting my stare, "So what's gonna, like, happen now?"

She looked vulnerable, yet, her face finally showed some signs of… I don't know… was it hope? Or maybe resignation? I couldn't really tell, but something changed within her.

"I don't know…" I say tiredly after releasing a breath, "I can sit here and say that I regret what happened, I can say what I did was terrible, I could say I was jealous, I could say I would never do it again, but it doesn't matter. In the end, I did what I did and I have to face the repercussions. I already said it before, but an apology won't mean anything and I don't want to patronize you by thinking I can sweep this under the rug."

"Jealous?" That word comes out slowly from her mouth, "…You?"

Realization stops my train of thought, noticing what I just said, or leaked to her. Oh, crap… I didn't mean for that to come out. Actually, now that I notice, why are you leaning closer now?

Wait… why did I say that? What could I possibly be jealous of? I no longer cared to be popular, I didn't seek out validation from my superficial peers, I didn't want any of that. So what am I…?

No, that's the thing, wasn't it? Miura threw away her assured social hierarchy and all the comforts that came with it. She could have had an easy high school life and she gave it up. And she did that all for the sake of wanting to…

To understand…

"…Because being kept in the dark terrifies me…"

Hah… Why was I thinking about that now? I already lost my chance…

"Hachiman…"

Her demeanor changed yet again, her facial expression now sporting something akin to awe.

In response, my eyes widened in horror and I covered my mouth with one of my hands. Had I really just said that?

"I…" I was speechless at how much I wound up revealing, and promptly stood up from the table as if I was going to be burned if I remained there, "That is… I didn't mean to… Just forget I said anything. I didn't mean anything by it!"

Those had been my personal thoughts! Why the hell did I so easily let someone else hear them!?

And there was a short period of silence, in which she just stared without even blinking. I don't know if I was too panicked and humiliated for me to discern it, but I couldn't read her expression at all.

The sudden creak of a chair signals Miura moving. I blink twice as she stands before me, holding both my arms by the blazer's wristband, giving me no chance to escape, and with the sweetest smile I have seen from her, she states the following.

"After saying that, how do you even expect me to, like, forget it?"

"…I can't forget it, I won't…"

For a brief second, I was on that train returning from Destinyland, sitting next to my kouhai. One blink later, and I was back in the restaurant with Miura in front of me.

"Tha—"

And before I could even register it, I felt her warm hand caressing my cheek.

…Eh?

Huh?

"W-what are you doing?" I stutter out in shock.

I tried to take a step back to get away from the uncomfortable touch, but she closed the gap immediately. Every step I took, she echoed. She didn't say anything, which made this even more awkward for me, her smile was gone but she was gazing at me softly now. I'm sure we looked ridiculous performing this demented dance of ours, but it soon ended when I felt the table hit the back of my waist.

Hey, wait a minute! That's not good at all! Too close! You're too close, dammit!

"M-Miura?" I could only hope that my voice didn't sound as much of a squeak as I thought it did.

"Don't run away, Hachiman…"

She's so close to me, so close to my face that I could study all of her facial features, the redness on her cheeks so clear, even I could feel her breath on me, and I couldn't do anything to remove myself from the situation.

"Uh, but, what about the others?" I had to force out, willing my face to not go red, though a drop of cold sweat traveled down my neck.

She blinks in realization and sighs, leaning her head to the side while her green eyes remain locked on my own. And after several seconds, she lets go of my blazer, locking her hands behind her.

"You're safe… for now…"

What's with those dangerous sounding words? Could it be that you were actually planning on killing me through sheer moe? Wait, are you actually going to try this again in the future!? Please don't, my heart wouldn't be able to take it…

I attempt to say something, but she beats me to it.

"I… really appreciate what you said…" She flashes me a brilliant smile, "What I told you in the morning, I meant it, so I won't give up."

"I'm… not interested in something like that right now…" I couldn't help but tell her, so she could avoid a future heartache.

She purses her lips, "Still, I'm gonna try."

"Why…?" I can't help but ask, confounded. I basically rejected her indirectly and she still wants to pursue it?

Miura averts her gaze, "Don't ask me why…" She mutters almost quietly, her blush still strong, "I don't want to throw the towel so fast, y'know? Besides… who knows what may happen later… right?"

I turn away from her to hide my frown. Remember Hachiman, if she winds up being a creation of Deus Ex, she'll have to die.

Any embarrassment I should feel leaves me at that sobering thought. I feel a bit of remorse along with it, but I can't forget about the game. I feel a pang run through my heart as I look back at her shy yet determined expression. Please, I beg you shitty God of Time, don't let it be her. She doesn't deserve that kind of ultimate betrayal.

It's also because of that realization that I couldn't find anything to say to Miura in response. How does one say anything when the ending could end tragically without her realizing it?

I suppose I should call it lucky that I didn't have to answer the blonde once I saw movement in the corner of my eye.

Now that I think about it… by the kitchen… Isn't that one of Shiromeguri's braids? Oh, come on, senpai. Were you eavesdropping on us this whole time? It was already bad enough that I ended up saying a lot more than I meant to, but for it to be potentially heard by others… again?

Ugh… Give me a break…

I scowl off in that direction, startling Miura at my shift in expression. Crap, sorry about that. I came to see the sink where Yukihira should have been, yet… I sigh wearily at the implication.

"Oi!" I said out loud, mildly irritated. "Don't you know that it's disrespectful to listen in on other people's conversations?" Seriously, no one seems to respect privacy in this world.

I see that crouching head of hair jump at my voice. Did you think you were being sneaky, senpai? Looks like Megu Megu Megurin didn't didn't have her own version of Stealth Hikki.

"Meguriiiii~!" I look back to see Miura pout with puffed cheeks. Cute.

"Ahaha… Sorry, Yumi-chan." My bubbly senpai walks out of the kitchen with a guilty smile. As I look back to the window in suspicion, I half-heartedly notice Miura storm up to Shiromeguri, probably to pull on her cheeks.

"Oi, you too Yukihira." I say flatly. I notice his hair appear through the window. You may be the most reliable guy in this world so far, but that doesn't mean I think you're above eavesdropping, you know?

"Ack. Ever the sharp one, eh, Hachiman?" He looks a bit sheepish as he scratches his head. Oi, at least try to look repentant, dammit.

"So?" I start, unimpressed, "How much did you hear?"

Shiromeguri becomes a bit coy at that. Were her cheeks red because of embarrassment or because of Miura's pulling? Yukihira, on the other hand, looks away with a complicated expression. I'm not sure what that means for me.

"A-ah… I… I heard some bits…" She glances at me shyly, with an uncertain smile on her face. Actually, the way she was looking at me… I can't place it… But it seemed to convey a sense of… deeper understanding and something else? I feel odd to be the recipient of such a look, so I'm clueless on how to act.

The blonde stares at her in suspicion.

"Meguri?" Miura leans to her so close as if trying to find something beyond Shiromeguri's face, "You, like, have a weird look on your face, you know? I don't like it, don't do it…"

My senpai panics, raising her arms defensively as she flushes. Somehow I feel like something odd was going on. I wonder if that had to do with what she might have overheard. Whatever it was, it's a relief that I at least managed to get rid of her guarded and disappointed expression from earlier. Even if it's beyond annoying that she and the chef overheard what I said, it's good to know that I was successful in patching things up.

"W-what are you talking about, Y-Yumi-chan?" She stutters before becoming the receiver of a sudden cheek assault once more, courtesy of her friend. "N-no… it wurts, Wumi-chan..."

I feel at ease to see them back to normal, they really are close, huh?

---

Go to profile, SEE: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 03 Section: Picture 03

---

As they start to go off in their own world, I notice a deep stare from my left. I raise an eyebrow as I look sharply and Yukihira Souma, who with arms crossed and an amused expression, observes me. His golden eyes were unexpectedly piercing.

"What?" I ask bluntly.

"…" Despite his focused expression, no words came from him.

I cock an eyebrow. This guy is making me feel tense for some reason.

It takes him a minute to finally reply, "…It was hard to tell before but, something is in fact different," He mutters, his expression unchanging. "Honestly, it felt like you were a different person back there," I frown, yet he continued before I could retort, "Not saying that's bad, people do change after all, and I'd dare say it was for good this time. Maybe I'm getting ahead of myself though…"

I wasn't entirely sure how to take that, but I supposed that his reaction was understandable. He doesn't seem to be completely convinced, or maybe, he thinks I'm putting up an act or something. I can't blame him though, seeing the piece of work my other self was.

"You're exaggerating…" I say reflexively.

"Am I?" Replies Yukihira sharply, "Maybe there's more than meets the eye."

His response gave me pause. Did I deviate too much? No, I had to have, I deviated from myself for pete's sake. Right now it's all on how he took what he heard from me, people closest to you should notice any dramatic changes.

I furrow my brows in response, "What are yo—"

"Mehehe!" I blink at the anticlimactic change in Yukihira's expression, as it now sported utter stupidity. What's with that? "Hachiman has become such a softie. Who would have thought? Hahaha!" He starts laughing dumbly, and I seriously feel like facefaulting… But I don't, I'm not in an anime after all.

That's more of a job for Aki actually.

Well, I didn't expect such a sudden change in his behavior. This guy nearly had me there… I almost feel like joining in his idiotic laughter, just kidding.

Seriously though… this guy was just something else huh…

My inner deliberations are interrupted as I feel a punch land on my arm, soft and playful. The chef was now grinning, and I felt stunned as his eyes literally transmitted to me a sense of newfound respect.

"Who the hell is soft, idiot?" I mutter at him.

Honestly, from where the heck did he get that?

Yukihira's grin becomes a smug smirk, "Hai, hai…" He waves a hand dismissively. Tch…

The sliding door opens at that moment. I sigh as Yuuki, the otaku and the delinquent have returned. Mmm? There was someone else with them… Pink hair? Where have I…? Hold on a—

"Hachiman? You theeeeeeere? Hachimaaaaaan?" A familiar female voice is heard, and I pale.

Shit… What's with this horrible luck? Damn you, Deus Ex!

And there she was, that clingy alien girl that had invaded my very home, stating that she was being chased all the way from her planet Deviluke to Earth…

Lala Satalin Deviluke.

"Yay! I finally found you, darling~!" The irritating pinkette, dressed in that strange costume of hers, exclaims once her green eyes set on me. She skips towards me with that usual smile of hers, "I was so worried!"

Kill me already.

I flinch slightly as both Miura and Shiromeguri turn at me. Wow, I expected a glare from the Fire Queen, but from Megu Megu Megurin? She actually looks pretty scary now…

Wait, Deviluke? No, stop! Don't come closer! I raised my hands defensively, yet it was futile as I found myself being tackled to the ground, much to everyone's surprise. I could feel two terrible gazes fall upon me as I try to get this girl off me, to no avail.

"Hachiman, I was so worried~" Deviluke starts, pressing herself against me, "Komachi-chan told me that school ended at 4:30, so it was so late that I thought something happened to you!"

The fact that I'm almost directly feeling her… assets on my chest is too much for me to take. Gah! It's freaking soft! Wait, Hachiman. Resist the temptation! You're better than this!

"G-get off him!" To my relief, Deviluke's weight on me was lifted by none other than Miura. I blink as the Fire Queen and the alien girl look at one another. I let out a sigh before getting back up.

"Huh," Harima calls my attention, "I thought she was lyin'. So you actually know this chick, Hikigaya?"

Aki folds his arms, "Well, she did know his first name… and is actually calling him by it…"

That comment wasn't needed as it didn't help my case in any way, idiot.

"Who the heck are you supposed to be?" Growls Miura out, furrowing her brows as Deviluke seems unaware of the atmosphere she had created in just a minute.

It's startling how Deviluke's capable of fabricating an object to mold memories, yet she can't read the mood around her… Does being a genius come with the cost of zero understanding of social protocols and conventions? Maybe she was an idiot savant.

I'm not good at socializing like Shiromeguri, nor am I a genius that can create such technology like Deviluke, but even a loner such as myself is aware of social protocols and what certain circumstances entail. This, for example, is the alien girl causing a severe misunderstanding. If having to deal with rumors wasn't bad enough, now I have to clear misunderstandings? My brain is going to explode at this rate.

"Hello!" Deviluke grabs Miura's hand, much to her surprise, "I'm Lala Satalin Deviluke! Nice to meet you!" She smiles brightly, and Miura is struck speechless. It seems she doesn't know how to react to such cheerfulness. "Who are you?"

"H-hello…" Miura manages to say, "Miura Yumiko…" After a blink of her eyes, she shakes her head while muttering to herself, "Why am I bothering to answer…?

I look at the others, Harima doesn't seem to care, just like Aki. Yukihira and Yuuki though, they look startled, and from what I had learned from them, I bet it's for different reasons. Shiromeguri was pouting at me…

"A-ah…" My senpai bows at the pinkette, "N-nice to meet you… D-Deviluke-san? I'm Shiromeguri Meguri," She scratches her cheek, "Um…"

"Yes?" Deviluke tilts her head innocently.

"Are you, by any chance, not from this country?" She asks with clear uncertainty.

Was that so easy to tell? Well, of course it was. She has pink hair and is wearing some sort of cosplay-looking dress, not to mention her non-Japanese name. I can't allow Deviluke to mention anything about her origins, though. There's a good chance they won't believe her, but still, it pays to be careful.

I just hope that she still remembers what we discussed yesterday.

"Yes!" She replies happily, "I'm a…" She blinks twice, before assuming a thoughtful face, her eyes wandering around the room, an index finger under her chin. "I'm a… Oh right, I'm an exchange student!"

Everyone stared at her in bewilderment and I couldn't help facepalming. It's actually a relief that she managed to remember, but the way she said it… You don't sound convincing at all, Alien-san.

"Yeah…" I add, trying to remain calm, "She just came to Chiba yesterday. I was supposed to give her… a tour…"

Miura approaches with furious steps, pinching me in the arm. Ow! That was so not necessary! "Why do you have to show her? There's, like, plenty of people that can do that instead, you know?"

"It's not like I'm happy about it either. My parents, uh, asked me to do it…" I retorted with a blank stare. I knew I wasn't being entirely convincing despite my efforts.

"H-Hachiman… A-aren't you going to introduce us to your f-friend?" Yuuki suddenly says. Oh, you were still here? I'm actually surprised with that request, but do tell me, why should I bother?

Meh, might as well do it. If Deviluke will remain in my house for some time, I better deal with this now to avoid future misunderstandings.

"Fine… They're Yuuki Rito, Aki Tomoya and Harima Kenji…" Deviluke flashes them a friendly smile. Aki fixes his glasses, slightly embarrassed, and Yuuki nods with a red face. Well, at least you don't look stupid… Wait, yes you do.

"Sup, Pinky," Harima greets her casually. At least this guy isn't a nervous wreck around girls. But, did you already forget her name? What's with that nickname?

"Mmm…" Deviluke seems thoughtful again before raising a hand, "Yo!"

Harima sweat drops. Meanwhile Miura glares at me again, "Why did she call you 'Darling'?"

"Isn't it customary to call a lover that?" Deviluke responds carelessly much to my discomfort. And there we go, yet another misunderstanding.

"EEEHH!?" Yuuki shouts in disbelief.

"Hachiman..." Miura lowers her head, a dangerous tone escaping her lips, "Were you actually, like, tricking me before? Didn't you say you weren't interested in that kind of thing? Is this girl your lover?"

Yukihira sighs and Harima shrugs his shoulders. You useless lot, get lost if you're not going to at least help out.

"Hachiman-kun," Aki states seriously, as if lecturing me. "Why do you still bother with real girls? 2-D girls won't ever give you this sort of problem. They won't be as scary as Miura-san is right now."

That sounds pathetic, idiotic, and disturbing. But you still have a point there though, I must admit, they are less headache-inducing.

Miura turns to Aki, and he almost yelps. Man, she must have glared daggers at him, I almost feel sorry for the guy. Yuuki steps away to avoid getting caught by Miura's field of vision. A wise choice.

"No, she isn't," I responded curtly, waving a hand dismissively. "Deviluke likes teasing people…" My narrowed eyes fell on the aforementioned girl, "Isn't that right, Deviluke?"

She stares at me for a moment, "Mmm, okay." She nods.

That response was way too simple! No one's going to believe you!

"Give me a sec, please," I say, motioning Deviluke to follow me. Miura seemed ready to voice her opinion against that, but Yukihira intervened before she could.

"It's not surprising that Deviluke was transferred at this time of the year," He says out loud, putting a hand on Miura's shoulder. That action earned him a glare, so he quickly lifted his hand and continued, "C-considering Chiba has so many schools, almost as many as in Tokyo, or so I've heard..."

With everyone's attention now fixed on him, I seized the opportunity to drag Deviluke with me beyond the restaurant's door. Once we're outside, I position myself strategically to have a clear view of the entrance, since this time, I can't take the risk of anyone overhearing us. Thankfully, luck is on my side as no one appears to be outside. The last thing I need is Deviluke attracting attention due to her… peculiar sense of style.

"What the hell are you doing here?" I inquire, annoyed.

"Ah! You have bruises!" Deviluke screeches out. I feel my eyes twitch at that. Don't interrupt me, dammit.

"Focus," I snapped.

Her eyes widened at that, maybe finally realizing that I had asked her a question.

"Everyone was worried that you hadn't come home yet!" She responds easily. I frown at that. I had forgotten, my parents are actually home by this time in this world. Of course they'd be curious why their son wasn't home yet. Guess, I'll head back soon. But, I wonder…

"Why didn't Komachi come?" It is pretty odd that she didn't show up instead. Could have spared me this whole farce.

"Why…?" She repeats, not expecting that question, "Well…" Once more, with a finger under her chin, she searches for the answer. "Komachi said she was busy?"

"Busy? At seven o'clock?" I ask suspiciously. I know she had her student council meetings back in my world, and even if she still had them here they never lasted this late into the day. Was Deviluke lying for her?

"Yeah… She had homework!" She sticks out her tongue playfully.

Wait, that reaction doesn't correspond there. I'm serious about this.

"…Is that right?" I narrow my gaze at the implications.

She was obviously lying, Komachi may not be the best type of student but she's usually diligent enough to have it done by dinner time. Unless… That's another change in this new world. Gah, whatever, I'm going to get a headache if I think about it more.

"Fine. Tell them I'll be back soon," I gesture towards the restaurant. "I still have business here."

She pouts, giving one killer look, "Can't I stay?"

"No," I immediately responded, shoving her toward my house's direction. "Go home."

"Meanie… I'm just worried about you," She refuses to leave, but I'm not going to yield on the matter. "You have bruises, I don't want to leave you here, dummy."

Gah… I didn't expect her to make a big deal about this. I deserve a Nobel Prize for my sheer consideration this entire day. Seriously though, can't I get a break from this already?

"Look, I'm fine," I sigh in weariness, "Do the others know what happened?"

Deviluke blinks and tilts her head, "About what?"

I stare at her blankly. I think that genius must have a different meaning in other worlds or something, because this girl is really slow. But she does seem capable, maybe calling her an idiot savant isn't an exaggeration.

Whatever the case, it looks like I'm clear on that. For now at least…

"Nevermind," I grunt, "I'll be home soon, so tell them I'm fine," I gesture her to leave in a 'shoo-shoo' manner. "And don't get lost on your way back."

"Mou… Hachiman, you jerk!" She puffs her cheeks childishly, "I'm not gonna save any dessert for you. Hmph!"

I sweatdrop as the pinkette stomps away in a rather childlike manner. Despite myself, a wry smile tugs at my lips. What an odd fellow…

I'm relieved that she heard me out in the end, as I wasn't keen on the idea of her accompanying me all the way to my house. Not to mention, it would likely have led to a jealous Miura who might have refused to leave me alone with her.

Oh, I forgot to ask her how she found me. I doubt she just wandered aimlessly in the streets, asking for me until running into Yuuki and the others. I'm positive that this girl used one of her weird inventions to track me here, only finding the others once she neared.

I may need to confirm if she can actually do that to take preemptive measures in the future.

Also, she's obviously lying for Komachi. Well, while I knew that Komachi didn't trust me completely, now I've learned that she can depend on strangers more readily than her own brother. My previous self is a damn bastard in all ways possible for letting our adorable sister become this way.

Well, I'll deal with that eventually. Now as for the others… Alright, Miura is frowning again. She's staring at me through the window, that's… really scary there. Quit it. Geh… I don't feel like going back in anymore, I might be killed at this rate. Hah… Let's just get it over with.

As I walk inside, I can hear Miura muttering something, wait… that wasn't Muira, it was Shiromeguri…? Seriously, stop that Senpai, that's disturbing. Some steps echo inside the restaurant as Miura makes a beeline for me.

Oh boy… Here comes the Fire Queen.

"Who was that? And what the heck was she wearing?" Good grief, that glare of hers is something I doubt I'll ever get used to.

"That was, Deviluke, a… foreigner who recently came to Japan. She's the daughter of a family friend in Europe," I offer. That was the alias that we agreed upon should anyone see her. I could have been better with the delivery, but whatever. "And she, uh, lost her luggage so she had to make do with that weird dress. She really likes it."

"And she came here to get you? Why?" She presses… calm down a bit, would you?

"Because… My parents sent her to check up on me once they found out what happened," I lie, it's harmless right? She doesn't need to know tha—

"Hoh… So why did they send her?" Her glare intensifies, and I feel another indignant one coming from Shiromeguri. "Does she, like, live with you?"

Crap. I slipped… really bad.

"Y-yeah," I nod slowly. "Can't really say much about it. My parents brought her so there's nothing I could do about that."

"Wow, Hachiman. That's exactly like in the game, Eternal Dream," Aki comments.

Miura turns to him slowly, eyes narrowed, "How does that game end?" She asks with a seemingly innocent voice, yet her face is displaying killing intent.

"Uh…" Aki fixes his glasses nervously, "T-the heroine ends up leaving for another country, and a meteor falls down on earth and everyone dies horribly."

What kind of games do you play, otaku?

Harima interjects, whispering, "Oi, wasn't that the game you let me borrow a month ago? Don't the girl and the main guy marry in the end and have twi—"

And before he could finish, he found his mouth being stuffed with bread by Yuuki. Luckily(?) Miura had ignored them by then and focused her sights on me again. But not before I hear the short idiot mutter.

"Safe…"

It was a pure miracle she didn't hear them.

"So, well… It's late. We should probably be leaving," I say, Yukihira coming out of the kitchen.

After swallowing some bread, Harima growls, "Speak for yourself, dude. I'm still hungry."

I shrug my shoulders, I wasn't including you.

"No worries," The cook grins, giving each one of us a bag, "Here's some steak. I won't let it go to waste so take it, take it."

"Ooooh! Good going!" Harima raises a thumbs up.

"Thanks, dude." Yuuki smiles, patting his back.

Aki nods, "Thanks, Souma-kun! I will store this precious container of protein for my next nightbreak. I expect more of this once you officially join the circle. And talking about that…" He turns to me.

"No," I immediately state.

"What?" He blinks, "I didn't say anything yet."

I yawn before clarifying, "You're going to ask me for something. No."

"After what happened with Kasumigaoka-senpai, I doubt it's a good idea to bring her aboard," Yuuki explains, and I'm surprised that he did. "Right, Hachiman?"

I only give a curt nod.

"Well, it sucks that Kasumi Utako turned out to be such a bitch," Harima states, and Yukihira furrows his brows, not looking pleased.

"Shut up. Don't call her that," He growls out, sitting over a table. "She may have acted pretty bad today, but she usually isn't like that. Utaha only seems to react irrationally when this guy is involved." While saying that, he points at me. What?

"Now it's my fault?" I mutter.

"Yeah," He responds lazily.

I didn't really want to think too hard about the repercussions of what happened, I had a long enough day as it was.

"That's hardly fair…" Shiromeguri pipes up, "Hachiman-kun being here shouldn't make someone act that mean, right, Yumi-chan?"

"Ye— Hey! What's that supposed to mean!?" Miura cries out, "Mou…"

"Ah, well," I feel like I should say something here. I'm supposed to be amicable with Kasumigaoka after all, "I'll talk to her later."

Miura puffs her cheeks, "I don't want you to…"

Moe attack: 9999 damage!

That was just as extreme as the Omnislash… I'm lucky I had a bottled fairy in my inventory.

"Well, whatever Hachiman-kun decides to do is up to him," Shiromeguri appears slightly troubled, avoiding eye contact with me. "It's late, Yumi-chan. We should go."

"What about Hachi—"

Yukihira interrupts her, "Yeah, don't worry. These guys will take him home, right?"

"Yeah, right… I can get there by myself," I retorted.

"But it's not like Miura will be relieved if you did…" The redhead smirks, "Isn't that right?"

My eyebrow twitches at that. Miura sported a sudden worried expression… Geez… Yukihira can be really perceptive during troublesome times.

"Well, if you wait for me after I eat, I'll take you home," Harima says, pointing his thumb at the parked bike outside. No way I'm not going to get on that death trap.

"…No thanks. I want to walk, think some things over." I mutter.

Miura pinches my arm, again, "Mou, Hachiman. Why do you have to be so stubborn?"

"That's one of my many charms," I say with a wry smirk while caressing my pained arm.

Yukihira and Harima laugh at that, Yuuki and Aki exchanging grins. Bastards, I didn't mean it as a joke… whatever.

"Then do whatever you want! I don't care!" I blink at her outburst. I observe, stunned, as she picks up her bag and Shiromeguri's. "You coming, Meguri?"

My bubbly senpai blinks and nods quickly, "O-okay…"

Harima sighs, "C'mon, I'll take you two to the closest train station." He turns to Yukihira, "I'll be back, so don't close the door, ya hear?"

Yukihira drawls, "Hai, hai..." He waves a hand in a bored manner. "Not gonna wait for long though."

I guess that Harima isn't the delinquent he seemed to be at first sight. Looks are indeed deceiving.

"I can take care of myself," Miura growls.

"Yeah, yeah," Harima walks outside, yawning. "Let's go."

Shiromeguri nods to everyone "Bye everyone, it was an… interesting… dinner we had, hehe…" She turns to me and stares in silence.

"Oi, hurry up already! A… achoo!" Harima's sneeze could be heard from outside, and Yuuki laughed. "Damn, the sea was cold now that I remember… Hey! I'm not waiting anymore!"

Shiromeguri glances outside, offers me a helpless smile and a wave before making her way outside, Miura silently trailing behind her. I should probably apologize for upsetting her. It seems she might not be a fan of my stubbornness… I think?

"Miura, wai—" I start and Miura stops before she exits. What she does next though, is unexpected.

"Teehee~" She whirls around and performs the sacred action of akanbe before finally exiting with a skip in her step. I stand there stunned at what just happened. What the hell!? That was way too cute!

Yukihira suddenly elbowed my arm, "I thought she was mad."

"It's good that she isn't," Adds Yuuki. "She can be really nice despite…" He blinks as the rest of us gaze at him in curiosity. "D-despite the rumors, ahahaha." He laughs nervously… suspicious.

"Well, Hachiman-kun. You sure you'll be fine on your own?" Asks Aki, picking his bookbag. I nod affirmatively, "I see. Take care then, and I hope you reconsider joining my circle. You're an expert on light novels, so your knowledge would be helpful."

"I won't. Probably," I responded curtly.

Aki chuckles and points a finger at me, "Just remember! The doors of Blessing Software are open to you!"

This guy is too dramatic.

"Take care, Hachiman. Make sure you mend things with Kasumigaoka-senpai," Yuuki grins and waves a hand. "Thanks for the food, Souma! Bye!"

"Bye, Rito. Give my regards to Sairenji," Hoh, Yukihira seems to be quite the jokester.

Yuuki becomes absurdly red, "W-wha!? S-shut up!"

"Alright, Rito-kun! We have a long night of gaming ahead of us!" Aki waves at Yukihira before leaving the restaurant, Yuuki following. Is that really okay? It's a weekday you idiots. "Consider this training!"

"Aw man, it's a pain to go all the way up to Detective Hill," Yuuki complains. "You should move to another place, Tomoya."

"Shut up, Rito-kun. Quit being so lazy…"

Aki's voice fades out eventually, and silence remains inside the restaurant.

"I'm heading off then," I picked up my school bag.

"Don't forget your steak," Yukihira points a finger at the plastic bag on the table. I can't believe I almost forgot the free food… Something must be wrong with me.

"Thanks," I grab the bag. Maybe I can finally taste his food.

"Before you go. I wanna know something," I look at the chef over my shoulder.

"Shoot."

"What are you going to do with Utaha?" He asked sternly.

Yukihira had defended the novelist, even though it was himself who had driven her out of his restaurant after the incident, and he referred to her by her first name. She must be a close friend of his, as she was supposedly mine. Even if the game was ignored, I'm already aware that I need to mend things with her. But does that mean I have to do it right away? I wouldn't even know where to begin, and I'm mentally drained as it is.

"I told you, I'll talk with her later."

He adds, "You know she said all those things because she was jealous, right?"

Not something I wanted to hear, "…Yeah. I'm taking a walk to figure things out."

After yawning, the chef replies, "I see. Anyhow, give me a call if something comes up."

I raise an eyebrow as I look back on him, "Don't get your hopes up."

"I won't," He replies easily as I finally walk outside.

"Later," I gave a lazy wave before finally heading off.

"Heh, told you… You're seriously cooler now." I hear him chuckle behind me.

Hah, and like I told you, I've always been cool.

Back on the streets, I observe the starry night sky. Whoops, looks like I underestimated how late it was. Luckily it's not completely dark, there are enough street lights to let me take my walk. I'm sure I'll be fine, this isn't the latest I've ever stayed out. Or was it? Maybe, I guess I can chalk it up to another thing this world is going to ask of me from now on.

Hah… My free time is rapidly dwindling...

So much has happened in the course of two days, and it's actually scary to think what more is to come. Whatever the case, I'm due for some fresh air.

Was it too much to ask to be able to eat dinner properly? Damn you, Deus Ex! Stupid, bastard god.

3-5

Maybe I should head back, I've been walking aimlessly for a few minutes now. And I'm starving. Due to the Miura and Kasumigaoka incident, I couldn't even grab the tiniest bite of food at Yukihira's. Well, I at least have this leftover steak with me, but it's probably cold by now. I'll need to warm it up when I get home.

I observe my surroundings. I was currently inside a park, sitting on a bench. I wanted some time alone, and silence before having to see Deviluke and Belldandy again. It's funny to think that I have so few places where I can feel relaxed. And with me offering both Shiromeguri and Miura a place in my precious safe haven at Sobu, that's one less. Such is the tragedy of being such a great guy~

It's pretty nice and quiet here. Hah… But I can't stay long, it's nearly half past seven, I don't want to worry the old man and my mother too much. Honestly, that's an odd new concept to think about.

My parents being around, it's just weird. I can barely remember a time when either of them were home, let alone the both of them outside of the weekends. I'm not sure what to think of them actually being around in this world. I hope it's not misunderstood, I don't resent them or anything, it's just… out of my comfort zone, yeah that's it. Nothing wrong with that, it'll just take some time for me to get used to something new.

Luckily for me, I have Komachi and our two new tenants there to take up the spotlight in my stead. It'll be hard enough seeing everyone there more often, and talking to them about my day is going to be a lot worse. Oh great, that reminds me. They're going to see that I'm hurt, and this time they won't have jobs to keep them from talking to me. Hah… The time when I suffered a hairline fracture and they didn't visit me at the hospital seems like a distant memory now… Good times.

My gaze falls on my still bandaged knuckles for the second time of the day.

Speaking of other new things. I'm still struggling to believe that I was able to fight off those five idiots. It's scary actually, being an inhabitant of a body that already has preset capabilities. I frown deeply as I keep staring at my bruised extremities. What the hell did my past self do to warrant needing to fight? Self-defense? Defiance? Or… Did he like fighting?

I shudder at that thought. From what I've learned in these two days, the previous Hikigaya Hachiman was a real piece of work at best, a shitty bastard at worst.

I look back at my hands again. Now that I thought about it, the pain in my body had significantly lessened. The initial soreness after waking up had dulled, to the point where I could move about pretty normally. This healing ability was incredible.

Well, I should probably get goi—

"Aw… c'mon Kouzu-senpai…" I blink as I hear someone's voice nearby, "You gotta stop inviting me to those reunions with you and your girlfriend. Ah… Always reminding me that I was so stupid."

Mmm? I look around, but I can't see anyone. Where is that voice coming from?

"Even Tsukamoto's sister has someone while I…" A sigh follows… This is the voice of a girl, one that is apparently whining for some reason. "Agh! How could I misunderstand everything!?"

I blink in surprise as the voice comes from behind the bench I'm seated on, specifically from the other side of the bushes. I'm not particularly interested on finding out what's happening there, but that unhelpful god mentioned that every person I encounter is significant in this absurd quest of mine. And seeing how it's shaping up to be a girl…

Feh… Might as well see who's there.

I tentatively walk around the bushes, slowly and trying to not make any noise. I really hope this isn't leading to a BAD END. I spotted some swings just at the other side of the bushes. One of them was occupied by a… girl, who wore a uniform of sorts.

She seemed to be holding her head as she continued to complain. There was no one else around so I suppose she just wanted to let her frustration out of her chest. It's understandable… I can relate I guess. As a loner, I never had someone who I could rely on, much less tell my problems to. Anyone else could have considered this girl as crazy, but I knew better. Though, I would have never vented in a public park, too many potential witnesses. I'm proof of that.

"Argh! I should stop thinking about this…" She stands up, yelling, "I'm so dumb, idiot, a fool, dull… uh… stupid!"

Oi, oi. There are plenty more synonyms to use, you know? Simple-minded, dim-witted, slow, dopey, empty-headed, moronic. If you run out of insults, don't just repeat them, doing such will only make you look really stupid, you knoooow?

"Is there anything worse than getting dumped before even trying…? It's been some time already but still…" Her outburst suddenly ends, the girl sat on the swing again, her shoulders slumped, the very image of misery. "Still…"

So she got rejected? Mmm… Not that surprising, I suppose. We are in high school after all, students tend to focus on these sorts of things.

I can't see her very well from this distance, so I can't tell if it's because of her looks. That attitude though, It's unusual to see a girl speaking like that. She seems somewhat tomboyish. However, this girl and I look to be pretty similar between our romantical experience, or the lack of it at least. That's one thing more I have in common with her than with those that are supposed to be my supposed 'friends.' Yukihira isn't too bad though.

Whatever the case, I think I've heard enough. This doesn't concern me, and she deserves her privacy. Maybe I'll run into her some other time.

I turn around to take the first step back home.

*Crunch*

I stop momentarily, looking at the dry leaves and branches I just stepped on. They made enough noise to call attention. Just my luck… I held my breath and looked over my shoulder, blinking my eyes as there was no sight of the girl I saw lamenting.

Where is she? Did I scare her off? Well, that's better for me… or… maybe…

Could it be…? That she was a great spirit of the park, wandering around and dragging handsome, high-quality men to their deaths!?

Just kidding. As if that sort of thing could exist, a god's one thing, but a wandering spirit? That's too much. What? Is she going to suddenly pop up behi—

"Hey."

"H-huh!?" I jump involuntarily, turning to my right. It was the girl from before… Argh, geez… I almost had a heart attack there. Was scaring me like that necessary?

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 03 Section: Song 05

---

"W-what the heck are you doing?" I stutter out, trying to calm my rapidly beating heart.

"That's what I should be asking!" She screeches out, "Ah! Could it be that you're a molester!?"

This new girl crouches down into a defensive posture, getting ready to take down the possible threat to her safety. Which somehow became me.

"Hell no," I say in an annoyed tone, "Just implying that is insulting, what exactly do you take me for?"

The girl relaxes her posture, but keeps giving me a wary stare. Good grief…

"Then what's with those eyes, they look even worse than Imadori's!" She puts her hands on her hips and glares at me. Who the hell is Imadori? Don't compare me to a guy I don't even know, dammit.

And leave my eyes alone already!

"I was born with these eyes, woman," I put my hands up in surrender, "I can't help what genes are passed down to me."

She blinks, not expecting that response. She lets a smile appear on her face, "What's up with that?"

"You picking a fight?" I mutter out.

"Not really," She shakes her head, "You can't blame me though. You were spying on me, and those eyes don't help you."

Leave my eyes alone… "Whatever… I wasn't spying," I shrug my shoulders. "I was just relaxing here a bit before heading home. Then I heard some pathetic whining." I say that last part with a hint of dryness in my voice, but I'm pretty sure it's going to go over her head.

"Eh!?" Her face flushed red, and I huffed in amusement, "S-so you heard all that!?"

"That's how sound works, it travels through the air waiting to be heard by others," I say dryly, "It's a wonder how no one else was able to hear it… and you kept shouting."

"S-shut up!" As she tries her best to suppress a blush, I finally observe her properly. The light behind me was strong enough for me to get a good look at her.

She was… quite stunning actually. Dark bluish hair that reached her shoulders, a cute face, gray, big eyes, and a rather attractive physique. Hmm… her, uh, assets were rather impressive… probably around the size as Yuigahama's… er, 'Yuigahamas?' Not that I know much about them. Just making an estimate here.

She sported a uniform I hadn't seen… Yet another new school? Her uniform was composed of brown shoes, a red striped skirt, a light colored blazer… maybe a light shade of brown, over her white shirt, which was opened at the top buttons.

"W-what are you staring at?" She growls, covering her chest. I blink in realization, "I'm gonna beat you up!"

"Nothing at all," I responded coolly, averting my eyes in an uninterested manner, before sighing. "Listen. I didn't mean to listen in on you. It was just a coincidence."

The girl still covers her chest, but otherwise, seems to be relaxing. She walks to a close by bench and sits.

"Alright," She nods. "You must think I'm pathetic, huh?"

"What I think doesn't matter," I put my hands in my pockets and sit on the other side of the bench, both bags I carried hung on my shoulder, "Besides, people who act like nothing's wrong all the time are way more pathetic."

She cocks an eyebrow, "I don't know if I should be happy with that."

I look aside, trying to suppress a chuckle. Heh, nice to see she was able to catch that. She peers at me with an annoyed gaze, but I'm able to resist and continue looking elsewhere.

"Now you're the one acting like a stalker," I mutter and she yelps indignantly. "Just saying."

"Why you…" She starts before dropping her shoulders, sighing wearily. "Well, thanks for interrupting my whining."

"I figured I owed you for interrupting my quiet," I responded blandly.

She looks at me from the corner of her eye, "Jerk."

I stand up, huffing again, "In any case, it's getting late. I'm heading off, you should too."

"I know, don't talk to me like I'm some kid," She growls, standing too.

"You sure sounded like one some moments ago," She becomes red once more, and actually gives me a surprisingly hard punch to the arm. I grit my teeth to endure the pain. I overestimated how much I actually recovered.

"Idiot, shut up alrea—"

*Grrrrr…*

She freezes, and I frown. What was that? A dog?

*Grrrrr…*

No, wait. It sounds close actually. I glanced at the girl, her eyes were averted to the side, a deep red hue rapidly spreading across her face. I looked around to see where the sound came from one more time.

*Grrrrr…*

Oh, so it was that… Her stoma—

*Wham!*

Before I could even blink, another punch landed, but this time on my own stomach. I bend over from the pain, forcing me to sit back on the bench again. I gasped for breath before glaring at the perpetrator of such a lowly attack.

"Y-you…" I gasp out, "W-what the hell was that for?"

She laughs nervously, scratching her red cheeks sheepishly, "Whoops… My body moved on its own," She claps her hands together in an apologizing posture. "I'm sorry!"

A few seconds passed before the pain began to lessen. Honestly… I was already bruised there to begin with. My breathing stabilizes as I continue to glare at her.

"Whatever. I'm outta here." I growl out, slowly getting up before trying to stumble away. Gah, shit… My aches are back again.

"W-wait!" She cries out, so I halt for a moment as she approaches, "Hey! Really, I'm so— Oh… You were hurt already…" The light must be hitting me enough for her to finally notice my bandages.

What sharp deductive skills you have there, genius. Shame that the rest of your brain can't keep up. Wait, relax Hachiman. Remember: patience, patience.

"It's fine," I stand up straight, and try to walk away once more. But I'm stopped when I feel a tug at my sleeve.

"It's not fine… You helped me snap out of my thoughts earlier, and I punched you just because I got embarrassed…" She looked down guiltily, her eyes concealed within the shadows of the night. I heave a sigh upon noticing her trembling ever so slightly.

In all fairness, my current reaction is justified. I was punched without any provocation, the fact that I was already injured making it more aggravating. However, it's not like she was being mean to me; she punched me simply because she was embarrassed. It might be a silly reason and a bad habit, but it would make me a hypocrite to judge her solely based on one minor flaw, especially when I have these dead fish eyes myself. If I'm going to keep encountering her due to Deus Ex's task, I really hope this punching habit of hers doesn't become a regular occurrence.

Hah~ I really am a great guy!

"Hey…" I grumble softly, getting her attention, "It's fine, really."

She perks up her head, blinking, "Really? No… hard feelings?"

There are, but I'll just have to let them go, "Not really, I guess."

She doesn't seem at all convinced as her frown continues, but only until…

*Grrrr…*

This time, she simply drops her gaze in embarrassment. It seems I'm not the only one with an empty stomach here. It's a relief that mine isn't as noisy.

I stare at my bag of Yukihira's steak in pure misery, before offering it to her. I look anywhere but the girl, I might just cry if I caught sight of my loss.

She's stunned, "Eh? What's this?" She asks, observing in awe at the bag, before grabbing it. From inside it she takes out a red box, with the name of Yukihira at the side and drawings of some forks. "Y-you… you're giving me this!?"

"Does it look like anything else?" I retorted. Now stop talking before I take back my food.

She hands the box back at me, "No, I can't accept it. We're strangers, right? I don't even know your name. Besides, I hit you."

"You don't need to remind me, idiot," I turn around. "…Hikigaya Hachiman."

I glance lazily over my shoulder, only to find her staring at me with a serious expression. What now? Abruptly, she advances towards me, forcing me to face her again. A bashful smile emerges, and she lightly pats my shoulder while chuckling.

"Hehe, you're a good guy, Hikigaya!" She nods her head, "Alrighty. I'll accept it but under one condition."

Oi, oi. If anything, I should be the one giving the conditions here, considering that I'm the one giving free food to you, "…What is it?"

"I'll treat you to some food next time," She grins, before a sudden realization hits her. "Wait, how about if you come to eat at my house?" The thought of future free food piques my interest but…

"Hold it," I say sternly. "We just met."

She chuckles, waving off my reservations, "It's fine, it's fine!" She pockets out her phone, "Here, let's exchange contacts."

I scratch my cheek, "…You sure?" She nods, and I let out a sigh.

"Hurry up!" She presses with a wide smile, leaving the steak box on the bench.

I stare blankly. Meh. She doesn't look so bad, I guess…

I take out my phone and she snatches it from my grasp. I cock an eyebrow, startled as she starts transfering the data between our cell phones. A sound comes from them and she extends it back. Whoa, that was really quick.

"Here," She says and I look at the screen of my phone. I easily found my new contact.

Suou Mikoto, huh?

"Well, I guess I'll see you around, Suou," My voice comes out dry.

She frowns, resting her hands on her hip, "At least sound excited, would you?" But a wide grin suddenly appears on her face, "Well, see ya, Hikigaya!"

And with that, she spins around, grabbing her bookbag and the bag with the steak box. I watch as she waves at me one last time before running off and disappearing from my sight.

I release a long sigh. I lost my chance at free food from Yukihira's… I should be nominated for sainthood for giving it up to her. Screw sainthood! I want food damnit!

Ah… I want to die… not really. The world should die for separating me and my food…

Just kidding.

…Maybe.

3-6

"Oi, Hachiman. What happened to your face?"

I fake ignorance as my old geezer questions me. At his right side was my mother, and at the left, was Belldandy, looking worried. Behind the goddess were Komachi and Deviluke.

"I got it from you, old man, you tell me," I reply sarcastically. A bad idea in retrospect, but I'm seriously not used to my parents showing me concern outright.

"Don't be a sma—"

"We heard about what happened at Sobu," My mother interrupts whatever the geezer wanted to say, "Are you alright?"

Seeing her walk up to me with nothing but concern for my health feels… off. I… don't particularly like it. I had to really keep myself from instinctively retreating from her touch. Hopefully my face of discomfort will be simply taken as a reaction to her touching any bruises.

"…I'm fine," I mutter unconvincingly.

"'Fine,' my foot," She scolds me, "Look at yourself, all bruised."

Uncomfortable with her touch, I tentatively grab her hand and set it down gently, "I'm okay, honest. It looks worse than it is."

"Honestly, boy… What am I going to do with you?" She frowns at my stubbornness.

"Don't worry!" The always cheerful alien girl exclaims, sitting at my side. Too close for my liking, "I'll cure all those bruises in the blink of an eye, Hachiman!"

As she starts pressing some buttons on her cell phone-looking device, probably to bring one of her inventions, I snatch the 'phone' from her hands. She makes a loud, "Ehhhhhh!?" And starts pouting, "Hachiman, what are you doing!?"

I respond flatly, "You're not experimenting on me, you idiot."

Although, her mind-altering inventions worked pretty well last night.

"I can't deny that some of my inventions malfunction sometimes, but I assure you that Cure-Cure Doctor-kun never fails!" I roll my eyes at yet another dumb name that came from that strange mind of hers.

"Um, Onii-chan? You should at least try it, right?" Komachi… always supporting her, huh?

"It's fine," I reassure her, "My bruises were already treated, so they'll heal soon enough. Besides, I can't just have my injuries gone in less than a day," I explain, and Deviluke nods her head, focused on me. My mother is still scowling though, "For those who've seen them, it would be plain suspicious if they suddenly disappeared."

"Hachiman has a point there," The old geezer agrees with me? Seriously? This might be the first time he took my side rather than Komachi's! "But if we do heal him, we can simply say that he's wearing makeup!" He says and raises a thumbs up at me.

"If you're only going to say something stupid, just stay quiet." I growl.

"Oi, oi! Don't be like that, boy," He scratches his head, "What? Don't tell me that saying that you used makeup will be too embarrassing for you. You never cared for what others thought, so why should you care now?"

"Because I'd never wear makeup, old man," I say through grit teeth, "I still have at least that amount of pride."

"It would help with our eyes though," He says with a chuckle.

"Then you use it. Don't drag me into those disgusting interests of yours," I mutter, before my cheek is pulled by… Deviluke?

"Hachiman! You shouldn't talk like that to your father!" She reprimands, and I can't believe it, "He's just worried for you, silly!"

"Don't worry, Lala-chan! One day he will understand what it means to be an awesome father like me, hahaha!" And he suddenly stops, deadpanning, "That is if he ever becomes one."

"Mind your own business," I mutter, annoyed. How the heck did the conversation get to this point?

Oh right, I almost forgot, "Uh, sorry," I started hesitantly, "The guys that attacked me wrecked my bike. I had to trash it."

"Wha!? Those brats wrecked your bike!?" My old man yells, "That thing was expen—"

"Hachiman…" I turned to my mother, gazing at me with worry before she smiled and… hugged me!? "I'm just glad you're okay. Your homeroom teacher contacted us, saying how they ganged up on you. My poor boy."

"B-but what about the bike…?" The geezer asks weakly, but I couldn't focus on that because of my current predicament with my mother's hold on me.

I was internally cringing, my body frozen solid. It takes all of my mental fortitude to keep from reflexively breaking away from this unexpected contact. This is just too awkward already!

Stop it! Come on, I'm not used to this! Please, give me a break already! It takes me a few moments to slowly return the embrace.

And if things weren't bad enough, the clingy alien suddenly joins the fray, much to my chagrin.

"Poor, poor Hachiman~" She says playfully and this time I do push them back.

"I get it already, geez… " I grumble, trying to suppress a blush. Was my mother supposed to be this doting to me? Whatever the case, I just need to convince them that I'm fine to get off this topic already. "Hiratsuka-sensei had a nurse check up on me, and she said that I wasn't actually badly hurt, all things considered. I just need to apply the ointment they gave me."

My mother folds her arms, "I hope that's the truth, Hachiman. Or I'll get really angry."

I shudder at that, "It is, honest." I put my hands up in mock-surrender. As surprising as her warmth was, it looks like she still has her normal intimidating side. And it's just as terrifying as always…

"Then I'll apply the ointment!" Deviluke raises a hand, "I'll take good care of you, Hachiman!"

"Ohh… Acting like a caring wife already?" The old man says as if proud. Seriously, how did you raise me with that stupid mind of yours? Thank goodness I just got your looks.

My mother sighs, "Otou-san, stop supporting that kind of behavior inside the house," She admonishes him and the old man nods as if he were a scolded pet. I appreciate it, Kaa-san, you don't realize just how much I do. From the pout of Deviluke, I can tell she doesn't feel the same. This girl…

"I can do it myself," I reassure them.

Belldandy smiles at Komachi, who looked a bit worried but couldn't voice it for some reason, and steps to me, "Hachiman-san, are you sure about not receiving extra treatment?" She asks, and I can't help becoming startled at her awfully concerned expression. "With my abilities, I can treat you."

"I know, but it's not necessary…" I reply, closing my eyes, "As I said, I need to keep up the appearance of a normal teenager, having magical powers and incredible inventions watching my back all the time will change that."

Belldandy stares in silence, and nods, "Of course, Hachiman-san."

"Besides, you still have Komachi to focus on," I give her an encouraging nod, "I trust you to help her out in that regard."

She blinks, exchanging a curious glance with an equally surprised Komachi, "As you say, Hachiman-san. I will help her as much as I can."

I nod, "Good."

"What are you two talking about?" My mother asks. Whoops, I forgot that they don't remember the real reason why Belldandy's staying here.

"Nothing important," I wave a hand and she frowns. "So, what's for dinner? I'm starving."

3-7

Just as I expected, being in my own home has now become a headache. Belldandy doesn't bother much, but that alien girl is a totally different story. My parents are awkward to be around since they've become even more familiar strangers in this world, and Komachi… She doesn't really try to engage in conversation with me without someone else involved. It's become a foreign household for me. Getting away from my house to get some fresh air sure sounds sad now that I think about it…

But I needed it.

Huh, I didn't realize how cold it became, but I'd rather be here than having to deal with the antics of Deviluke. I know I'll have to return eventually, so I'll enjoy this moment of silence.

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 03 Section: Song 06

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"Yo, Hachiman! What's up?"

Well, that was my intention before my other neighbor, Aikawa Ayumu, decided to show up.

I gave him a half-hearted glare, this was getting old already, "I was trying to enjoy the solitude…"

Just how many people were going to interrupt my private time? Putting that aside though, why are you wearing an apron? Hah… Just ignore it, Hachiman. Just focus on getting rid of him so you can regain your peace..

"I guess I came at a bad time," He says after letting out a yawn. "I'm so tired, dammit. Having all the house to myself isn't as good as I first thought."

I continue to look forward, "Your parents aren't around?" I lean my back on the wall, my eyes focused on the sky, "Lucky you."

Aikawa blinks, and gazes at me, startled, "Did something happen?"

"Not really," I responded with a blank expression. "What about you?"

It's not like I'm remotely interested, but I shouldn't cause another scene with him like last night. Leaving Kasumigaoka on her own and reassuring Miura were bad enough as it was to warrant notice, alienating a 'friend' of mine for no real reason will look too suspicious.

"Not much. It's just a bit weird living alone," He folds his arms, speaking in a bothered manner, "Ever since my parents left on that work trip, I have to clean the house by myself, cook for myself, and well… you can imagine the rest."

I look at his apron, "Were you cleaning just now?"

Aikawa nods lazily, "Yeah… Someone has to do it, right?"

That totally seems like the life of a househusband, my kind of life. He takes care of the house without having to deal with anyone. Not even his parents… I'm totally jealous of him! Exchange places with me right now! You're living my dream, dammit!

"Is that the reason you didn't go to Aki's house with Yuuki?"

He nods his head, "You could say that. Got some piled up homework too. And to be honest, I wasn't in the mood to hear Tomoya's reviews of his favorite games. That guy takes the fun out of them sometimes."

I suppose I can guess what he meant. Aki seems like the guy to be spilling out spoilers, or commenting about everything during movies and games. I won't jump to conclusions though, but he does seem to be that kind of guy. And nobody likes backseat gamers.

"So," He turned to me, his eyes looking as tired as he seemed. "How are you holding up? Rito said you got in a fight?"

This again? "Yeah. Some players from one of the sports clubs got the jump on me," I shrug as if it weren't my problem, "I'm still breathing."

He seems thoughtful for some seconds, "That's good, pal. We'll give them back what they deserve, twofold." Aikawa clenches a fist.

I raise an eyebrow at that. Looks like I matter enough to warrant him to willingly fight for my sake. Or perhaps it's due to his own moral compass, which was then exacerbated because I was the one attacked. Never really thought of it that way, but still…

"There's no reason to," I say casually, "Fighting them again is a waste of time, they're already due to get busted soon enough anyway."

He blinks at me as he relaxes his fist.

"Really?" He looks incredulous that I didn't want to fight, was I seriously supposed to be that bad-tempered?

"Is it a problem?" I frown at him.

"Hey, not really," He puts his hands up in surrender, "I'm just surprised, you know? You usually get back at others for these types of things."

I simply shrug back in response. I don't know why the previous version of myself was willing to do so, but I'm not going to bother. Whatever happens to those idiots, isn't my problem and I won't make it mine.

However, at least I got some information about my past self. Maybe he was the vengeful type, but somehow I already imagined he would be something like that considering the bastard he seemed to be prior to my arrival. No wonder he and Haruno got along so well, they complimented one another I suppose. One rotten egg with the other.

"Anyway, have you heard?" I turn to Aikawa, staring at him in confusion. "So you haven't? Remember the two murders in Chiba a while back? I just saw in the news that there's been a new murder. The police found the body of a student this morning."

Murders? In Chiba? I can't help getting a bit tense with this sudden change in subject. Seriously, I came here to relax and now I have to hear you talk about a possible serial murderer? Way to go, Aikawa, you've destroyed whatever chance I had to have my peace here.

"I haven't been watching the news lately," I responded, "How much does the police know about them?"

While I'd rather not even think about that, I think it's better for me to learn as much as I can from this, after all, someone in my family or I could be the next target. Just thinking about that is scary… Damn it, this world is insane. I don't recall Chiba ever facing such a dreadful event in my world. It was always peaceful here.

Now I knew this world really was a shittier version of mine… How dare they make my precious Chiba dangerous!

Hold on a minute…

Last night, wasn't there someone watching me from across the street? I feel a chill go down my spine. It couldn't have been her, could it? That other pink-haired girl that sent that disturbing message?

"Mmm… Well, apparently the killer uses a sharp weapon to kill their victims," He explains, "The police thought it was a knife, but the medical examiners state that according to the form of the wound and its size, it might have actually been caused by a katana."

"What sort of serial killer would use a katana as the murder weapon?" I ask in skepticism. Aikawa shrugs his shoulders.

"Beats me, I'm not a serial killer so I can't even begin to imagine," Aikawa scratches his head, "I'm not sure if we should get worried, I mean, Orito keeps telling me it'll be okay but what are the chances he's wrong? I know I'm living alone now but..."

Orito? A friend of his, I guess, maybe mine too.

"Is there a pattern with the people killed so far?" I inquire, narrowing my gaze.

"That's the kicker, the police can't find one. None of them are related in any way."

Alright, now this is a worrying matter. A serial killer is on the loose in Chiba, and anyone can be the next victim. The chances of me becoming the next unfortunate target of the news are slim, but as long as there is the tiniest chance of that happening, I won't ignore it. I'll have Deviluke create something to keep my home safe. Maybe she'll at least be helpful in that regard.

"Whatever the case, you should listen to him," I grumble, looking nowhere in particular. "Bad things happen more often than you think." I know that pretty well.

"You're right… I should probably tell Rito about this, but he'll start panicking and becoming even more paranoid if I do," Aikawa yawns, and tilts his head, "Maybe I can just make sure to walk him home. His parents aren't around often so he practically lives on his own with Mikan-chan."

I nod my head. I may not like these people, but that doesn't mean I wish them any harm.

"That's up to you."

He smiles, "So, how's your relationship with Yukinoshita going?" I raise an eyebrow at that, it doesn't take a genius to figure out which one he was referring to, "Considering you now talk to Miura, you could have also changed your opinion about her." So he already knows about that too? I wonder who told him? Yuuki most likely.

"What does Miura have to do with Haruno-san?" I ask drily.

"Dude," Aikawa looks startled. "Yukinoshita hates her, right? You know that more than anybody. It's either being a friend of Yukinoshita or a friend of Miura's."

Ignoring the particular noun, the choice was obvious, "Then I suppose I'll choose Miura."

Aikawa's jaw drops , looking shocked, "W-wait! You mean that!? So the rumors are true?"

"Rumors?" So, Yuuki didn't tell him? "Oh, those… No, they're not. We're just acquaintances."

"You hated her," Aikawa's tone of disbelief is irritating. "What made you change your mind?"

"Nothing in particular," I say cryptically, "Maybe I just got bored with what I was doing before."

Aikawa stares at me inquisitively before shrugging his shoulders. It's really troublesome to realize that the rumors spread so easily, worse still that it was able to migrate to at least two schools. Or maybe Aikawa knowing could be attributed to just Yuuki having a big mouth.

"Hmm… You really are changing, Hachiman," His bland gaze becomes unexpectedly sharp. "That's cool, I honestly thought you were being unfair to Miura, or to anyone you didn't care about…" He then leans closer. We're by ourselves, you idiot. "You know, I never liked Yukinoshita, even if she was a hot babe."

Idiot, the last part was unnecessary. Just say you didn't like her.

"I've been having my own second thoughts about her lately…"

Aikawa looks intrigued, "And why's that?"

I shrugged, "Can't say. Just an idle thought."

Saying, "I just despise that woman" probably won't go over well, no matter how true it is.

Aikawa makes a humming sound, folding his arms, "Is just an 'idle thought' enough to change all you guys had before though?"

I frown at the idea of having history with someone like Haruno. A beautiful apple with a rotten core is still a rotten apple.

"I'm just pondering about what I was willing to overlook in favor of indulgence."

This is uncharted territory for me, since I rarely talked about this sort of thing. I hope my face doesn't outwardly convey the discomfort I feel.

"I mean, can't blame you, Yukinoshita is a hottie. Besides, don't older people say that teens tend to think with their second head first?" He laughs, "I guess instinct is stronger than logic sometimes."

Was this locker room talk?

"Probably," Is how I dully respond, having no interest in continuing to talk on this subject.

He stared at me with a smile in silence, and I had to wonder what was going through his head. Probably something stupid, so I decided to let it go.

"Yeah… probably…" He shrugs, "But I feel you, dude. Dunno, I don't think I interacted with her much, but she kinda always rubbed me the wrong way."

If I were the crass type, I would have made a smart comment. But I wasn't, that aside, I typically reserved that for the virgin Ooka. Though at the rate they're going, Yuuki and Ayumu may soon compete for that title.

Still, I couldn't help but ponder where Haruno stood among the people I knew. I was aware that Kasumigaoka and Miura held a deep dislike for her, while Ayumu appeared intimidated by her. Yet, she also happened to be a family friend. All in all, even in this world, Yukinoshita Haruno remained a wildcard in my life.

Silence follows, we both stare at the starry sky. Eventually, the door of my house is opened, bubblegum pink hair reaching my sight. Maybe if I ignore her, she won't say anything.

"Hachiman? What are you doing out here?"

Aikawa freezes immediately and I release a sigh. Deviluke approaches, looking curious. Man, I don't feel like dealing with this right now.

"Trying to enjoy the quiet," I reply idly, focusing my gaze on the sky.

I can hear her steps as she lets out a childish whine, "Mou… Why are you so mean to me?"

"What the heck? This cosplayer came out of your house?" Aikawa glances frantically between us, "Is this a friend, or family? Were you hiding her from me? You dirty boy!"

"Quiet. It's none of those," I growl out, "She's the daughter of a family friend overseas."

"That's a lame excuse, dude. No need to hide it!"

Deviluke tilts her head, "Hide what?" She waves a hand at Aikawa, "Ah! I'm Lala Satalin Deviluke by the way! Are you a friend of my Lovey-Dovey?"

Aikawa turns to me with a perverted, knowing grin. Ugh, that's really gross… Do something about that face! The police would throw you to jail first and ask questions later if they were to see you right now!

"Tch, quit saying such ridiculous things." I growl, observing her from the corner of my eye. "This idiot might actually believe you."

Deviluke frowns, "He should, no? Since it's the truth," I blink at her unexpected reaction, "Are you shy about revealing our relationship, Hachiman?"

I glance at Aikawa, expecting another disturbing face, yet he now smiles, his teeth glowing somehow, yet I could tell he was faking it. What the hell is happening now? I sense some sort of bitterness from you! Could it be that you're actually…

"Ah… It's good that I at least get to see a friend reaching paradise…"

Is he seriously jealous? What kind of pathetic life do you need to have to be jealous of Deviluke disrespecting my personal space? You're getting that much closer to becoming the virgin Ayumu!

And just before I could even make a comment, I heard some footsteps coming from down the street. It looks like the others heard it as well, as we three stare up in silence as two tall figures approach our location. I tense, recalling what Aikawa mentioned some moments ago. Maybe it was two killers instead?

As they neared, I could distinguish them. The newcomers turned out to be two men clad in sleek black suits, sporting matching black sunglasses. It brought to mind an old, popular western movie, something about men in black attire that fought aliens in the films, if I recall correctly. Aliens…

Wait… I glance at Deviluke, she's an alien… So could it be…

Was an American secret agency here!? Were they here to retrieve this extraterrestrial being for their government to study!? Wait, Hachiman. How would they know? Or more like, how wouldn't they know? All Deviluke has done since coming to this planet was draw attention.

I even remember seeing some reports about an unidentified object having been detected by the Japanese airspace. Luckily, they weren't able to pinpoint that she crashed into my house because the sensors were thrown off the moment she entered the atmosphere. And even more luckily, many people were writing it off as ridiculous.

But that was the general public, the governments of the world are a different story.

Once they finally reached us, I found out the truth.

"Dear goodness… What a troublesome lady. We should've restrained your movements even if it meant tying your hands and feet until we left Earth."

Alright, so I was completely wrong. These people weren't related in any way to the American government or any secret agency. They did look like agents of that western movie I mentioned who were in charge of dealing with extraterrestrial matters. Should I watch the movie again? Maybe I'll learn something useful in dealing with aliens.

Who am I kidding? That sort of film isn't based in any sort of research or scientific study whatsoever, but only made to give one entertainment. And I still can't buy that crap about the tiniest gun being the most destructive one!

Whatever the case, these guys did actually turn out to be connected to Deviluke. Bodyguards, maybe? In charge of her security and wellbeing, failing since she managed to escape them and come to Earth. Alright, it's either Deviluke used her genius brain to elude them or these men are all bark and no bite.

"Eh? How did you two find me?" Deviluke took a nervous step away from the two newly arrived men.

The men in black flanked her from both sides, standing just in front of my house. The dim streetlight lent them an even more imposing presence. They were tall, well-built, and exuded an unmistakable air of professionalism. One of them even had a sizable scar, which was honestly intimidating to see at face value.

"Hmph, it was not an easy task, Lala-sama. Your teleportation caused a massive surge of energy that disrupted our tracking devices for a whole day," The one with the scar said evenly, seemingly ready to restrain her at any moment.

"What is this?" I pipe up, extending my arm to keep Deviluke behind me.

Yes, I know that she's actually stronger than me. I blame it on my reflexes in response to their obvious hostility. What kind of adults threaten a girl, alien or not, who barely looks older than Komachi? You're supposed to be a good influence as the older ones here, you knoooow!?

It goes without saying that what I just did put myself in real danger.

I hear a soft, "Hachiman… " Behind me, but I couldn't dare to look away, given that getting distracted could cost me my life.

"Stand aside, earthling," Says the taller of them, broadening his shoulders threateningly, "This doesn't concern you."

I swallowed heavily, feeling my fear skyrocket.

"P-probably," I curse my stutter, "But that doesn't give you the right to waltz up here and demand things from Deviluke."

"He's right!" Deviluke suddenly shouts, and I glance at her over my shoulder as she's raising an arm in a challenging manner, "You have no jurisdiction here! Go away before Hachiman takes you both down!"

Before I WHAT!?

I now send an incredulous expression at the pinkette for her provocations. Oi, stop trying to get me killed here! I can't beat up your fellow aliens! You're all stronger than me, dammit!

Aikawa suddenly yells, "What the hell is going on!?"

Oh, shit. I forgot he was even here… Couldn't you have given me a hint faster, just so I wouldn't have forgotten about your entire existence so easily? How the helll do I even explain all of this, especially after all that 'family friend' talk?

"Lala-sama!" I recognize Deviluke's hat's voice. Peke was it… right?… "Why don't you use the bracelet?"

A bracelet? I bet it's some super advanced thing or something. Aikawa looks around in confusion.

"Who the heck talked just now?"

I feign ignorance, not wanting to open that can of worms myself. I could just tell him, but to be honest, even I find that talking invention of hers absurd. Yeah, sure, A.I. is a sought after technology that humanity is slowly improving on, but Peke was the real deal if Deviluke could be believed.

Deviluke shakes her head and replies to her hat, and I swear it just seems she's talking to herself. Aikawa must think she's insane, "Pyon-Pyon Warp-kun?" If it doesn't have a ridiculous name, then it can't be a creation of hers… "I can't, it was damaged during our escape… and I forgot to repair it. Teehee!"

I stare blankly as she playfully sticks out her tongue and pretends to smack herself on the head. Could you please refrain from acting so ridiculously when my very life is at risk here?

Aikawa deadpans, "Where do you find your female friends, Hachiman? You seriously know how to pick 'em." I sent him a dirty look in response. Oi, quit staring at her with such a disgusting gaze.

As I return my attention to what was important, I see one of the two new arrivals suddenly approach us with an imposing stride, "You eluded us for far too long, Lala-sama. It's time to go back."

Strangely, I felt less fear than before as I quickly dragged Deviluke behind me, trying to keep her out of their sight.

"Wha—" I attempted to speak, but I found myself abruptly held by my shirt, hoisted into the air, and hurled towards my gray-haired neighbor like a ragdoll.

I hear Aikawa cry out as I collide with him, and a grunt escapes me, my body throbbing with pain, a mix of old injuries and fresh ones. The next moment, both of us are struggling to regain our footing after the sudden impact. What's with all the violence today? It's the third time in the span of a single day, damnit.

What's even more unnerving is that I realized it could have been far worse. If they possessed even a fraction of the strength I sensed in Deviluke, they must have held back considerably.

"Hachiman!" Deviluke screams in concern, however, she's unable to even move as the other invader appears behind her.

"Ugh…" Aikawa grumbles, "That was uncalled for, man!"

I ignore him and look back up towards Deviluke now that the new invaders reached her. One of them had grabbed her as the other looked on callously.

Deviluke struggled to break free from the vice-like grip he had on her arm, her desperate voice echoing through the quiet street, "Let me go! No, no, no! I won't go back! Hachiman, help me!"

The harrowing notion of them holding back their strength nearly paralyzed me. However, when I noticed tears welling up in her eyes, I suppressed that fear and mustered the strength to rise to my feet, albeit painfully. With a glare, I called out to the suited aliens.

"You…" I gasp as my body groans in pain, "You heard what she said. I don't know about your planet, but here, you're supposed to take a hint when you get rejected."

If the suited alien duo heard me, they showed no sign of acknowledging it. What gall… and after I worked up the nerve to mouth off too…

Aikawa stares at me in disbelief as he gets up. Oi, why do I have to be the only one doing something here? Where the hell is your own chivalrous instinct, you idiot?

But in all honesty, was there anything we could remotely do now? I bet any of them could knock us both out without breaking a sweat, which was basically proven already. I don't even think that brutish girl from yesterday would stand a chance against any of them either. Even if my body were in better condition, what exactly would we be able to do?

The front door of my house suddenly opened, and I feared it was either of my parents or worse yet, Komachi. I can't even begin to imagine what would happen if that was the case. They would have probably called the police, seeing those two suspicious-looking guys trying to take Deviluke away.

"Hachiman-san? Lala-san?" Instead of either of them, it was Belldandy who emerged from the house, inexplicably dressed in her goddess outfit. Aikawa, already overwhelmed, immediately turned to me, his face a mix of exasperation and bemusement.

"Let me guess, another daughter of an 'old family friend'?" He says with a wry tone… This guy is so freaking annoying. Seriously, is this the time to ask? Aikawa stares at the goddess for a brief moment, "And another cosplayer too, huh?"

I ignore him in favor of looking back and forth between the goddess and the alien trio who stopped as she arrived.

Belldandy observes the area, warily approaching us. I could see an unusual expression on her face, being one of complete focus. I guess she quickly understood the dire circumstances.

She shoots me a quick glance, "Hachiman-san. Are you alright?"

"It's nothing I wasn't already dealing with," I brushed off her concern to bring the focus back to Deviluke. I wanted to complain and whine about how much abuse my body has endured today, but it wasn't really the time for that.

"Hachiman!" Deviluke calls at me again, before she realizes the goddess's presence. "Belldy! They want to take me away!"

The goddess stands before me, "Please, let me handle this, Hachiman-san. This might be something out of your power to handle. You have done enough."

Where were you five minutes ago? I would have been totally fine with leaving it all to you since the very beginning. Again, to keep from whining while ignoring the atmosphere, I solemnly nod at the goddess and take a step back.

"Ehhh… guys?" Aikawa waves a hand, "Shouldn't we call the police or something?"

"Let's just say this is beyond their pay grade right now…" I mutter back cryptically.

Belldandy looks away from us two idiots and starts approaching the struggling trio on her own. I suppose that a goddess will have no problem handling something like this. Aikawa seems nervous now.

"Oi, Hachiman? What are you doing?" Aikawa is evidently worried, "You can't just let her deal with this alone. Who are these people?"

I ignore him again, focusing on the goddess. I won't lie, I'm intrigued as to how she hopes to deal with them. I just hope she doesn't do anything showy. It'll get too suspicious if bright flashes get reported only a day after the tremors when Deviluke crash landed.

Reaching Deviluke and her captors, Belldandy suddenly bows respectfully to them, and I felt the urge to face fault. Considering how kind-hearted she is, this shouldn't have come as a surprise, still, I can hardly believe it.

"It's clear that Lala-san doesn't want to go with you," She raises her head, looking serious, "So please, let her go."

Uh, I don't think that simply asking politely will be of any help there…

"This isn't the business of earthlings," The one with the scar replies.

Belldandy tilts her head, "That remark is incorrect, sir. I'm not an earthling, I am a goddess!" She states without a care, her tone so cheerful that it juxtaposed with the entire situation.

"No, you're not!" Aikawa waves his hand in denial, screaming, "She's delusional, isn't she? This isn't funny! And what's the deal with the 'earthling' nonsense!? I thought what happened some time ago was all an elaborate ruse!"

I remain silent, wondering what he meant by that, but I choose to focus on Belldandy. This indiscreet goddess… she lasted all but one second with that alias we gave her. Good grief, even Deviluke kept quiet about her extraterrestrial origins and she went walking around in public in that costume of hers.

Taking advantage that Belldandy held everyone's attention, Deviluke stomped the feet of both of her pursuers, allowing her to break free from their grips. Using this chance, she slips away from them, and runs towards Belldandy.

"Please, Lala-sama," The same man with the scar starts, "Stop trying to run away from home."

"I won't!" The pinkette shouts back, exchanging a glance with the goddess. "I've had enough! I don't care if I'm a successor or whatever, I'm tired of meeting future husband candidates every single day!"

"But Lala-sama. This is your father's will." He replies.

She mentioned that briefly yesterday, after I let her stay at my house. Really, I wrote it off as something idiotic so I could prioritize convincing my parents to allow our newest resident to stay, but I really couldn't blame Deviluke for wanting to escape the life she had.

I wanted to ignore it, but the fact she had so many marriage candidates to choose from along with sharing her namesake with her planet had a lot of implications that I didn't want to think about. Seriously, who names a planet after themselves? Or was it the other way around?

"I don't care about what Papa wants!" The alien girl sticks out her tongue childishly. Maybe nobility is different on other planets…

"He won't be pleased with such insolence, Lala-sama," He responds professionally, "He's only thinking of your fu—"

"If he was thinking about her at all, he'd be sensitive enough to realize that having a choice in that matter is important to her."

Everyone turns towards the source of the voice. Me. Oh dear, since when was I such a loudmouth?

"Hachiman!?" Deviluke's wide eyes landed on me, hope had returned to them. Hah… I'm such a romantic…

Neither of the men looked to have appreciated that though. The other blonde one glares at me in a way that makes me feel like a deer in the headlights.

---

Go to profile, SEE: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 03 Section: Picture 04

---

"Do not interfere, humans." Even his voice follows the other guy's in the cliché of also being intimidating. It actually takes a bit of willpower for me not to back away.

"If you do, then we will remove you."

Suddenly, they start advancing, Aikawa nervously crossing his arms in an X as he pales, "H-hey wait! He's the one who said it! I'm innocent in all of this!"

"You're so miserable…" I mutter to myself. You're about as useful as lint right now.

Quit panicking idiot, they don't give a damn about you. Although, these guys seem like they're highly trained, being tasked to capture Deviluke and all, so being scared is understandable. But did you really have to throw me under the bus, bastard? You couldn't even try and pretend that I could rely on you? What happened to wanting to avenge my attack earlier?

And yet, despite the imposing presence they had, the self-proclaimed goddess steps up to them, much to my surprise.

"I would ask of you gentlemen to leave Lala-san in the care of Hachiman-san," Belldandy asks with a determined face, "She is rather attached to him in this world."

"Belldy…" Deviluke seems moved by those senseless words.

Oi, oi! Don't say things that could be easily misunderstood. While I had allowed Deviluke to remain with us, it doesn't mean that she's in 'my care' or anything! What if they start thinking that she eloped with me!?

The goddess continues, "Forcing her to marry someone against her will is wrong. Lala-san has the right to marry the person she loves."

The alien runaway nods her head in agreement, "Yeah, totally! Ah! I really like Belldy! She's so cool!"

Can't you guys read the mood? This is serious, you know? Now look, the bulky man is approaching them. I have a bad feeling about this.

"Apologies, Lala-sama but…" Before he can lay a hand on the pink-haired girl, Belldandy swiftly claps her hands together, then opens them to release a ball of bluish, gusty energy. The magical force or whatever slams into the man, blasting him away.

Wait… What!?

"Wow! That was amazing, Belldy!" Deviluke screams in delight.

"W-what the heck did I just see?" Aikawa utters in disbelief. I couldn't believe my eyes either. Seeing something that should only exist in the realms of fantasy and shounen anime occur in real life was something I couldn't even begin to comprehend.

She produced energy and launched it at that guy! How the hell was that possible!? Forget Deviluke, maybe Belldandy is the real Saiyan here! Seriously, what was this world? Aliens are one thing, but are there seriously beings that can project energy?

Well, she did say was a godde—

Whoa! That other dude just lifted a truck! Shit! And he threw it right at her! I instinctively took a step back before Belldandy stopped the vehicle by simply raising her palm, some sort of invisible force repelling the truck to the side.

"Are my eyes screwing with me!?" Aikawa's jaw drops, "What kind of anime world did you drag me into!? Tomoya would be geeking out if he were here!"

"I'm not entirely sure myself…" I mutter softly, still trying to wrap my head around what is happening in front of me. If he doesn't get it, how can I be expected to? These kinds of things were impossible back in my world. Maybe Aikawa was onto something here, this world literally had anime aspects to it.

"So, yeah! I'm gonna stay here with Belldy and Hachiman forever!" Deviluke states with utter conviction. Excuse me, wasn't the word 'forever' too strong to use Alien-san? Couldn't it be, like, 'for now' or 'temporarily' or maybe even 'until tomorrow'? Why would you want to stay here permanently? You're abusing our kindness here, Deviluke!

Ignoring our nonsense, Belldandy didn't seem at all fazed when the other man in black jumped to attack her.

"Belldy!" Deviluke screamed, worried. After witnessing what she just did before, I somehow imagined what was going to happen, this was a standard cliché in anime. "Watch out!"

"Please…" The man blinks, Aikawa and I doing the same. Belldandy clasped her hands in a praying manner, "I don't want to hurt anyone else. Let Lala-san stay here with us, please…"

To our shock, the alien men came to a halt.

The man stood his ground without any further offensive intent, startled at the sudden plea of the goddess. His determined posture was soon reduced to nothing as he gazed back at Belldandy. With such a face, who could say no?

But… was… this even remotely cliché? No it wasn't… I never expected this kind of development! While I should be glad that we avoided the common tropes that followed this situation, I can't help but feel that I'm not entirely ok with it. There's a pattern that should be followed during these situations, dammit.

"But I'm compelled to follow her father's orders…" The man replied, yet his voice lacked the determination it once held.

Belldandy steps up to him, smiling, "Listen to what your heart says…" Okay, we're starting to reach the saccharin realms here. "Your heart knows what you should do."

The man drops his gaze, lost in thought. Aikawa sweat drops, "Wow, that scary dude turned out to be such a softie. Your friend is really good."

I nod numbly at that, this was something that came all too suddenly. How was she able to stump this professional with only a few words? Was this another ability of hers? That could be it, nothing else could explain this anticlimactic turn of events. Well, maybe I can take advantage of this momentary crisis he was going through.

"Oi," The three extraterrestrials turn to look at me, "Why does her father want her married off so suddenly?"

"Hachiman?" Deviluke seems confused at the question. It's actually a fairly good one, you know? What could possibly be so important that your own father would want you to marry so early?

The suited man glares at me from his kneeling position, "Do not question what you do not know of, human. Lala-sama is at the proper age fo—"

"Deviluke barely looks older than my own sister, how can anyone possibly believe that she's at the age to be married off?" I interrupted him. Not sure if it's the brightest idea, but more context for Deviluke's story would be much appreciated.

"Human… Yo—" He tries again, but I don't let him talk.

"Why does her father want her married off?" I press, my tone taking a more serious tone. The man doesn't take that too well. I'm playing with fire now.

"…Our King no longer desires to rule over the galaxy, he wishes to retire and have his eldest daughter and her future husband rule in his place." He replies after getting caught in Belldandy's pleading look again. Maybe I was right about it being an ability of hers, making him talk.

Hey, wait. Ruler of the galaxy? Deviluke's father wants her to be in charge of the entire Milky Way? Just who the heck is her father anyway? Whatever, I'll go along with this farce.

The goddess steps up to him, resting a hand over her chest, "That's very selfish of him, putting such responsibility on Lala-san's shoulders, disregarding her own right to choose her future, and to choose who she will love."

I have to agree with Belldandy's first opinion, what kind of father dumps an entire galaxy onto his teenage daughter? That's beyond mere irresponsibility, that's just reckless already.

"Does it seem right to you, to have Deviluke become ruler and marry some random guy?" I ask. Belldandy's presence kept the male's guard down, and he seems to be a bit more willing to listen. Maybe I can take advantage of his sympathetic side.

"It doesn't matter what I think, I have orders to accomplish," He says, fixing his sunglasses. Hoh… Still adamant about that, huh?

"Why is it that you obey her father while forgetting your own thoughts?" I smirk darkly, "Maybe you're just a puppet he can manipulate?" The man darkens his gaze, meanwhile Belldandy looks at me with disapproval, "Following a boss blindly only drags their followers into meeting their tragic ends all that sooner, you know? The span of history on this planet has proven it countless times, and I bet yours can say the same."

"Huh, this human is onto something…" I hear Deviluke's hat commenting, but I don't let that distract me.

"That voice again? "Aikawa looks around confused before scratching his head, "And what are you guys even talking about?"

I keep my focus, also ignoring the idiot. He had seen enough to realize that something is not right about this world. To tell him otherwise would be a waste of time. I'll deal with Aikawa once I solve this. This guardian was a tough one to crack.

"Still, this matter goes beyond what we think is right, as it concerns the future of the galaxy, boy," He sighs as I notice in the background the man that was first blasted away getting back to his feet.

"And you really think that the future of the galaxy will be secure with Deviluke and some random brat as rulers?" I questioned with severity. Call me biased, but I wouldn't trust Deviluke to look after my cat, let alone an entire kingdom.

"Eeeh… I can't tell if you're actually defending me or not…" Deviluke whines, puffing her cheeks. I am, you idiot. It doesn't matter how, but we have to convince them. Making them realize your incapability is our best shot at making him and his partner leave.

The man in black appeared contemplative. When his partner, who didn't seem pleased about being blasted away, approached us, the scarred man raised a hand, instructing the other to stop. I squint as he turns around and approaches his bulkier companion. They seemed to engage in a discussion a few meters away.

"What could they be talking about?" Aikawa voiced my concerns.

"No clue," I responded honestly. I can only hope that they took the bait and are pondering whether or not they should continue this retrieval of theirs.

Belldandy kept her eyes locked on the duo as they conversed, eyes hopeful. I wonder if all goddesses are like her? Those two could be easily mistaken as hitmen, yet she believes in them. I swear that blind kindness will be your downfall in the long run, goddess. Especially on this planet.

Humans are not like your kind, they are selfish and evil more often than not. There may be few exceptions but in the end, they just need certain conditions met to show what they truly are capable of. It's as simple as that.

Source: Me.

As the female duo awaited, after some minutes, the two men in black turned to us and approached. They had apparently reached a decision, and I couldn't help feeling a bit restless. If they decided to continue this fight, things were going to bring more attention towards us. And I had no desire to be at the epicenter of the general population discovering extraterrestrials and divine beings.

The suited men —for a lack of a better counterpart— stood just before Deviluke and Belldandy, and to their relief, they nodded.

"An order is an order, Lala-sama," The one with the scar said, and Deviluke dropped her gaze. "However, we never intended to travel all the way to this planet, it seems that we may need to restock ourselves before we resume our task."

I raised an eyebrow in disbelief, and the alien let out a squeal. However, her happiness was short-lived as a new voice resounded in the whole block.

"Disobeying direct commands from the King? I don't think so."

I can only assume this voice came from the large spaceship. Just how come no one else had yet to notice this scene? I mean, there's now a huge spaceship in the sky, almost covering it completely.

I'll be damned.

It was massive, radiating hundreds of dazzling lights. In many ways, it resembled a classic flying saucer straight out of numerous sci-fi thrillers. I suppose they weren't too far off from the truth, huh? From its center, a brilliant and intense beam of light descended from the saucer to the ground, just behind the men, which revealed a new presence.

At this point, I thought I'd seen it all. As for the astonished expression on the guy beside me, well, it was entirely understandable.

"WHAT THE FUCK!? ALIENS!?" He shouts in shock. "NOT THIS AGAIN!"

I frown at his outburst. What? 'Again?' Was this not the first time— No don't think about it right now. Only an idiot would keep trying to be rational in such insane circumstances, where normal logic can't be applied. Honestly, this world is just one giant headache…

The man who came from the sky looked… ehm… intimidating? He had grayish hair, blue eyes that shone intensely and was insanely tall. As for what he wore, it was some sort of armor, with spaulders and a cape included. The armor looked like something a Demon King would wear now that I think about it, like in those older adventure games. Well, the chance of convincing them is gone now, I'm afraid.

"Zastin…" Deviluke muttered.

Raising his armored gauntlet, the alien male that Deviluke referred to as Zastin states, "I can't believe that you two were about to neglect your duties because of meddlers requesting it. Return to the ship, I'll have a talk with you later."

They nodded stoically," As you command, Lord Zastin." With that, lights that came from the ship and dragged them up, disappearing from our sight once they reached the shiny middle of the saucer.

"What will happen to them?" Belldandy asked, concerned. Geez, you're worried about them too?

He stared at us coldly, "That is not your business, goddess. Moreover, I ask you to stand aside so I may retrieve Princess Lala. Refuse and I'll be forced to remove you."

So he knows what Belldandy is? And despite knowing that, he still threatens her? This guy must be dangerous. I shouldn't be here… among such beings… I'm just a… simple human.

On a side note, Deviluke indeed turned out to be a princess, huh…

"I will not!" Belldandy shakes her head, looking resolute, "Lala-san has the right to decide how to live her life, and forcing her to marry someone she doesn't love so she can rule isn't right."

Aikawa grabs my shoulders, standing before me, "Aliens, goddesses… You do know what's going on, right?" He narrows his gaze as I look blankly at him. "What the heck have you gotten yourself into!?"

"…Don't make it sound like I wanted this to happen…" I mutter, removing myself from his grip, "I just met them yesterday, and for some reason, I had the bad luck to be dragged into all of this."

Aikawa drops his head, sighing, "You really do know how to pick 'em…"

We both blink when Zastin raises his tone, "I won't repeat myself, goddess. Heaven has no jurisdiction on the matters concerning the Devilukean Royal Family. Outsiders should stay out of this."

Belldandy shields Deviluke, raising an arm, "You are only causing her grief, Zastin-sama. I cannot ignore it. As part of the Goddess Assist Agency, I offer her my support."

Deviluke nods enthusiastically, "Yeah, I'm… ehm…"

"Lala-san is eligible to be my customer," Belldandy completes.

"Y-yeah! I'll become a customer!" The alien adds cheerfully.

From what I see, a confrontation will be inevitable as Zastin reveals a green energy sword of sorts, somewhat alike to lightsabers. Hey, wait! That's a copyright violation! Stop that right now before we get dragged into a lawsuit!

Now I'm starting to get truly worried. If they fight using whatever powers they have, I doubt the entire block won't remain unscathed.

"Enough with these obvious falsehoods, Princess Lala. Come back home!" The armored man exclaims.

"I don't want to!" She sticks out her tongue.

"Then you leave me no choice," Zastin's face darkens. Without any further word, he lunges at both Belldandy and Deviluke.

His lightsaber crashes against a force field Belldandy created, a massive pulse is released from the impact. Aikawa and I struggle to keep ourselves on the ground as we cover our faces. The goddess pushes the alien warrior away and sends a ball of light at him, but he cuts it in half.

"Why did it stop working!?" Deviluke whines as she tries to manipulate her phone-like gadget. I can only imagine she also possesses advanced weapons. "Peke? What's going on!?"

"I can't tell for certain! There seems to be some sort of interference!" The hat replies, much to Aikawa's shock.

"Nice try Princess, but I have disabled your device on the chance that you wanted to use your inventions against us," Zastin smirks, pointing his sword at Belldandy.

Aikawa shrieks as Zastin suddenly lifts another truck stationed nearby with one hand and throws it at the goddess. She momentarily turns to me, realizing the danger this sudden fight is exposing us to.

Belldandy swiftly advances toward the oncoming truck, her hands aglow with concentrated light, which she extends forward. As the truck descends onto her palms, she holds it still and fortunately, manages to completely stop it before it could inflict any collateral damage.

"Zastin, stop!" Deviluke screams desperately.

"There's only one way I will, and you know it princess," He readies himself to attack again. Belldandy seems lost at what to do. I bet she just realized this was no place for a fight of that caliber.

"Hold on a minute!" Aikawa suddenly shouts, dragging everyone's attention, "I don't have the slightest idea of what's happening, but if you two keep fighting, then all the people around will probably get hurt!"

The man with long, grayish-hair sighs, "There's no way I can stop. It's not that simple. I, Zastin, have received the direct order of taking her back, by none other than the King of Deviluke himself. I won't be able to face the King should I fail in this task."

Belldandy frowns, "But doesn't he care about his daughter's happiness? Lala-san came all the way to Earth to escape from a forced marriage. All that effort is only because…"

However, her voice fades once Deviluke steps just in front of her.

Deviluke seizes Belldandy's hand and manages to force a smile. I must admit, I'm a bit taken aback because I've never seen such an expression on her before. Her smile no longer carried its usual childish nature; instead, it conveyed discouragement, realization, and melancholy all together.

"Belldy… Thank you… But this is as far as I'll go…"

The goddess stares back at her in silence, guilt invading her face. Her whole call to action has now become a nonfactor of her decision. Sure, she could ignore it, but Belldandy wasn't the type so all she could do was stand down.

"Lala-san…" Belldandy whispers sorrowfully. Even Aikawa seems unhappy about this, but there's not much we can say or do. So long as this was her will.

A tiny tear appears on Deviluke's face and streams down her face before she whispers…

"I… I only wanted to find my own genuine love…"

"…And I don't have a say in the matter. My mother has always decided things for me."

Those words struck a chord in me.

I stood there stunned as I was reminded of what I heard just two days ago, before I was brought into this new world. A pang of guilt hit me just as quickly as the memories came.

Deviluke was almost in a similar place, wasn't she?

"I want to give it thought, be satisfied with it… and give up on it."

Her life was being decided for her, and she took a chance to pave her own way no matter what that meant. My annoyance at her blinded me.

I, myself, had only recently come to realize my desire to find something genuine, whatever that might be. In contrast, this girl had already made up her mind about what she wanted. She yearned for love, whatever form it might take or be. How she achieved it didn't seem to matter; all she desired was the freedom to make a choice about it, a choice she was willing to risk everything for. It's not difficult to imagine how restricted her life must have been, considering she was the daughter of the king of an entire planet.

I may know nothing of it, but those familiar melancholic expressions were there on her face, hidden beneath that apparently ever-cheerful personality of hers. I suspected there was something amiss when I was about to throw her out of my house yesterday, and those incessant words about love and whatnot she kept babbling on about… That was her way of expressing her desire to walk her own path under her own choosing.

Yet once more, she didn't have a choice in what entailed the future of her own life. It bitterly reminded me of Yukinoshita. She ran away from her family trying to control her life, she didn't want her life dictated by others either and while it did take a while for her to finally do so, she wanted to choose her own fate and create her own future. Even if it was against her family's wishes.

Deviluke was the same. I now understand what she was trying to do.

Before I even realized it, I was standing between Deviluke and Zastin with my back towards the alien knight. It seems I may have gone insane from living inside this world, but I couldn't just let a person be deprived of her freedom.

"Deviluke. I thought you were just goofing off all this time, but I figured something out," The pinkette blinks, "I found it absurd that from just meeting me, you'd want me as your possible husband, there was more to it, wasn't there?"

Deviluke frowns, "W-what do you mean, Hachiman?"

"It's funny to think that you were actually using me and I didn't realize it," I let out a dry chuckle. "You really are a genius…"

The alien averts her gaze as I step up to her, hands inside my pockets, "W-what are you talking about?" She scratches her cheek nervously, while Belldandy looks confused.

It's time to reveal the truth.

"You wanted to marry a 'mere human' like me to get your father to stay in power, didn't you? He'd never end his reign if his planet refused to have me rule in his place, right?" I say cynically.

This is the first time I've seen such a severe expression on her, it even surprised Belldandy, "That's not true! Never I once thought of earthlings like that!" She steps to me, too close for my liking, "But you know, yeah, I used you, but only because I wanted him to let me stay here. I like Earth so much! Before today, I only had my ro— F-forget it!" She sticks her tongue out at me and gives me her back.

I turn when I hear Zastin's indignant holler, "Y-you, an earthling, marrying Princess Lala!?" I turn to him, my gaze dry. Was that all he got from that? "That's blasphemous! An primitive earthling taking on such a responsibility as to rule over the galaxy?"

Alright… It seems I was right about that. The Devilukean population most likely won't accept a human as its ruler, which would explain how the planet's Princess would be able to elope to Earth if she married one. But this does contradict Deus Ex's words about human capabilities.

---

Go to profile, LISTEN: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 03 Section: Song 07

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"Do not underestimate humans, Zastin-sama," Belldandy states sharply. "They are stronger than you might think. Gid Lucione-sama is just too stubborn to accept the idea, and so are you."

"Nonsense!" He swings an arm, his cape flowing, "If you believe that, then let him prove his worth!" I don't like where this is going.

Zastin turns to me and raises his sword to slash at me, I feared for my life, yet I stayed in place. There was one thing I still needed to say. I'm seriously tired and I don't feel like moving at all anymore. I just want to go to bed already…

"You think of me as a mere human, but you haven't realized how human your princess is behaving, acting so selfishly and dragging me into her problems," I close my eyes. "It's stupid how things turn out, huh?" I opened my eyes, Zastin had stopped his lunge mid-swing and simply glared at me in bemusement.

I swallow the outright fear at having a weapon brandished in my face, then direct my gaze at the source of my current problems.

"Ha-Hachiman?" Deviluke stutters as our eyes meet.

"To be honest, I found Deviluke really annoying, that overly upbeat devil-may-care personality of hers is probably what bothers me the most." She pouts, bailing her fists, "But not just because I dislike that kind of person, but because she's also a hypocrite."

"W-what did you call the Princess!?" Zastin prepares himself again to strike, but this time it's Deviluke who raises a hand to stop him. Then she focuses on me again, this time looking at me in pure curiosity.

"I'm saying that princess of yours acts more like royalty than you give her credit for," I chuckle darkly, "Faking her personality, acting like nothing's wrong when in fact everything was wrong the entire time."

"W-what?" I turn to him with a bothered look, he's pointing a finger at me. Seriously, that reaction is too damn clichéd. "How dare yo—"

I wave at him dismissively, before glaring daggers, "How can you spit out such crap about rulers and marriages when you don't give a damn about her?" I face Zastin with a stern expression, "She lied… about a lot of things, but I'm not someone to judge. I do the same, and you know what? I don't really care if she did either, because she acts like any human would, and that's just fine."

"Hachiman-san…" Belldandy whispers, her tone conveying surprise, but I don't really care right now.

"I'm probably getting ahead of myself here, but I think that living here on Earth, it doesn't matter with who, it's what she chose to do," I look at Zastin defiantly. "Do whatever your king tells you, but nothing will change the fact that all Deviluke craves is the choice to find someone to love, one who will love her back, she wants the freedom to choose. She wants a normal life. Who the hell are you to take that away from her? Not even her father has that right."

---

Go to profile, SEE: Link in Logic Is My Sword: Chapter 03 Section: Picture 05

---

Silence came, only broken by the currents of winds echoing in the street. It was rather peaceful actually, nice and cool. Wait, I should concentrate here as he could slash at me at any moment, yet it doesn't seem to be the case now that I look at him. Zastin seems to be lost in thought.

"You…" Zastin starts, yet his voice fades. Belldandy gazed at me with a warm smile, while Deviluke…

"Hachiman…"

I blink, what's with that odd face, Alien-san? That's embarrassing, stop it! Wait a minute, could it be that you misunderstood my words? Don't blow things out of proportion! I-I was thinking of the game is all!

"Oi, Deviluke, wha—"

"I want to marry you," She states, her voice so steady that it made my heart skip a beat, "Hachiman, let me be your bride."

…Hah?

"…Hah?"

"You understand me so well that it's frightening…" She seems to be holding her breath, "I only wanted to have a reason to remain here, and marrying you was all I could do to accomplish it," She averts her gaze, her cheeks visibly red, "There was so much I wanted to do, but all I can think now is… That I want to marry you."

I frown at that, wasn't she listening? "Oi, didn't we just talk abo—"

Suddenly, I feel a grip on my shirt as my feet stop touching the ground. Zastin had pulled me up with one hand, and I could feel the pressure suffocating me. This was way worse than the time that girl with the bear costume almost choked me.

"Hachiman!"

"Hachiman-san!"

Deviluke and Belldandy scream my name, and all I could do is attempt to break free from it with both my hands, to no avail.

"Don't you dare move, goddess!" Zastin commands with a powerful voice, "His life is literally in my hand."

"Please, don't harm him!" Belldandy begs, "We only want Lala's happiness!"

"Zastin! Let him go!" Deviluke approaches us, desperation in her face or at least that's what I think it was, "I'll go with you! Just let him go!"

I was still trying to pry his grip apart, but it was completely in vain. My breathing was being hampered more and more, and I think I was starting to see blotches in my vision. I wasn't sure, it was getting just as hard to remain focused.

I… I wasn't going to die, was I?

"Please Zastin-sama! You are hurting him!"

"Why should I accept a mere human marrying the future heir of the Devilukean Throne?" He claimed fiercely, "Someone this weak to lead the whole empire?"

And with one move of his arm, I'm finally let go, but not the way I wished. My body was sent swirling away on the ground, as more screams erupt, my own included. I release a pathetic groan of pain as I finally lay prone on the ground.

I said groan, but it was really more of a whimper. Everything hurt, and my instinct to curl into a ball was being hampered by severe pain on my sides. I've never experienced it before, but that had to mean my ribs were broken, they had to be. It was an agonizing back and forth of pain, my instincts wanted me to tense my body but every attempt just caused more pain.

What do I blame for remaining conscious this time? Did this guy somehow master throws to the extent that he can keep his opponents in agony, or is it the result of the accelerated healing factor? I doubt I'll ever get an answer to that, so I'll just place the blame on the brute.

I heard hurried steps near, but I wasn't able to see on account of my eyes being squeezed shut in pain, a "Hachiman-san!" follows, telling me at least one of their identities.

"Hey, dude!?" Aikawa's voice echoes, "Man, hang in there! I don't care what's happening, but I'm gonna call an ambulance and the cops!"

I obviously couldn't respond to him, but even still, don't you think these guys are beyond them?

"Please don't move him!" Belldandy says worriedly, "I'll heal him!"

"Didn't you just see what that scary guy did to him?" He retorts in disbelief, "He needs medical attention!"

"J-just…" I croak out, "Just listen to h—hrk…!" The pain in my ribs keeps me from finishing my sentence. Hell, the pain was so intense, it briefly doubled my vision.

"Man…" He sighs, "W-wait… What the!?"

I force my eyes open to a squint and see a bright light in my immediate vision. I feel a comforting warmth spread throughout my body accompanying the glow. Some of the more immediate pain I felt was dulled enough for me to focus more on my surroundings.

"See, princess?" Zastin's voice come from the distance, "Someone needing the help from a goddess is far from being a suitable husband."

"Just… stop… I'll stop resisting…" Deviluke's faint words are all I hear after that.

The light lessened, and I looked down to see Belldandy's glowing hands had moved down to my midsection. My eyes widened completely, and I grit my teeth as I felt an intense pain inside of me.

"GAH…!" I couldn't help but cry out once the pain reached a threshold, I shut my mouth again to keep the scream down to a growl. I tried to focus on my sharp breathing, anything to get away from the pain of my bones being put back into place.

"Huh!?" Aikawa almost jumps in surprise, "I can see most of his wounds actually disappear, but why does he look more in pain than before?"

"Hachiman-san's broken bones are being healed, so pain is unavoidable," She explains through my pained spasms. "It will subside soon…"

I had an impulse to snark back at her, but even as I contemplated doing so, I paused, suddenly realizing that my pain had nearly completely dissipated. I blinked in surprise as I glanced down at myself, hardly able to believe that I was already fully healed. There was no trace of lingering discomfort either. I redirected my gaze toward the towering warrior and the galaxy's princess engaged in conversation.

"What are we waiting for then?" Zastin asks the pinkette, "Let us depart."

"I just want to see if he's okay. That's all I want before we do…"

Zastin lets out a loud laugh, "The king will be pleased." He stops for a moment, "But please, change that face, princess. This is all for the sake of Planet Deviluke and yours."

"Can I at least say goodbye?" She asks, glancing at us.

He folds his arms after a sigh, "That's unnecessary, but I'll comply this time."

Bastard already accepted his victory without any regard to Deviluke… What a pretentious piece of garbage.

I ignore that however, and look back on the alien princess walking up to me with a pained expression. And it was that exact expression that I couldn't help but focus on. It was different from anything she showed before.

It was…

"Hachiman…" She starts, standing before us three, her hands held together, "I… had fun here… but I… I should do what Papa wants…" She forces a smile, something I didn't think would be so difficult for her, "I'm sorry you got hurt… but at least Belldy will take care of you… and Komachi… and…" My eyes widen as drops fall on the ground, "And your dad…" Tears and more tears began to stream down her face, "And… y-your mom… and…" I narrowed my eyes as she just couldn't stop sobbing, "And Ka-Kamakura…"

It was a heartbreak…

"Lala-san…" Belldandy whispers weakly, dropping her gaze.

"Princess?" Zastin visibly frowns.

Deviluke raises her hands, noticing her tears as they fall onto her palms. In that instant, it's as if realization smacks her across the face. Her eyes widen with despair, her legs quiver, and eventually, she sinks to the ground, covering her face as loud sobs escape into the nearly empty street.

"P-Princesss!?" Zastin raises his hands, panicking at her emotional outburst, "D-did they do s-something to you?"

He rushed towards the pinkette, but stopped in his tracks as a self-righteous expression of anger morphed his face into a glare. I would love to say that Belldandy once again stood in his way, or Aikawa decided to be useful for once instead of being a bystander who stated the obvious. Heck, I would have been fine if Yuuki arrived out of nowhere, having somehow overheard everything and just waiting to intervene. But it wasn't any of them who blocked his way from reaching Deviluke.

It was me, Hachiman!

"You again, human?" Zastin growls in irritation, "Have you learnt nothing?"

"Plenty," I chuckled at my stupidity and swallowed my immediate fear, "Like how someone who's supposed to be so loyal to his princess is fine with making her cry."

Oh dear, what on earth was I doing?

"What are you even talking about?" Zastin blinks, "This is not my doing! Surely it was you, human tha—"

"Your princess has finally found something that she is willing to fight for and you're spitting on it!" I cut off his words fiercely, steeling my nerves.

The alien swordsman frowns, "Then what is that she's fighting for? She already has a purpose, so I fail to see why would she—"

"Her purpose isn't to be a convenient doll to be shoved onto the throne at her father's whim!" I glare back at the tall warrior, "She should have freedom to choose what she wants out of her life. That's what she's fighting for!"

There is silence for a moment, "Who are you to say what the princess is fighting for?"

"Shouldn't you know?" I sneered at him, "Isn't she your ward? Or did you disregard her wants in favor of turning a blind eye? And you call yourself her knight?"

I'm going to get myself killed at this rate…

Eyes wide open, Zastin steps back as if he had received a physical blow, "I'm… protecting her future! A human like you wouldn't understand what's at stake here!"

I felt almost insulted by what he said. Don't frame it like you're doing this for her. You're not even thinking about her at all.

"The future you want for her leaves her miserable and empty!" My anger powers me through whatever doubts I had, "She's not a doll to be disregarded or a tool to be married off! She's just a girl, one who deserves freedom like any other!"

I felt someone grabbing my hand, and I turned to see it was a sobbing Deviluke, "Hachiman stop… you don't have to do this anymore…"

I feel my own anger deflate as I look down at the weeping girl. I couldn't help but wonder if I was doing the same to her as Zastin was. I could frame it as righteously as I wanted, but I was still trying to make her decision for her. Even if I didn't like it, if she decided to go back, it wasn't on me to say otherwise.

And it was a powerless feeling.

My gaze fell at her trembling hand as it held mine in tight grip. It didn't hurt physically, but the damage being done as helplessness settled into my heart was there.

"I don't know how it is in your world, but we humans value our freedom more than anything," I say to no one in particular, "Throughout our history, we've fought for it in some way or the other. Sometimes it comes at the cost of other people's freedom, and other times it can lead to our despair. Some even have to give up their desire for a cause they deem larger than themselves. That's how it is when ideals face off against reality and yet we still fight for it."

I silently glance back at Deviluke's tearful expression.

"But this girl," I look back up at Zastin, "She isn't asking for anything major. There aren't severe repercussions for what she's searching for except inconveniencing a king who's grown bored of his throne. How can you know all of this and still reject her so callously?"

Zasting staggers again, the semblance of power he exuded gone and replaced by confusion and doubt. His unfocused gaze wanders around, until it falls on Deviluke. He raises a hand, as if trying to reach her, but then he realizes her eyes were completely locked on someone else.

That someone else was me.

And before I could even react, Deviluke had stood up, wrapping her arms around me in a deadlock. I almost panicked at the contact, and wanted to vocalize my discomfort and my embarrassment but the tremble of her shoulders had me hesitate.

"I don't want to leave! I don't want to go back!" She screams as she refuses to let me go, "I want to stay here with you! No matter what Papa wants. I want to live with you forever, Hachiman!"

…But did you really need to make things that embarrassing?

"Who the hell are you?" Zastin mutters to himself.

But all of that is ignored as I try my best not to turn red at Deviluke's outburst of affection. My eyes caught sight of Belldandy smiling like never before, and Aikawa was scratching the back of his head, chuckling.

Stop adding onto this atmosphere by making it seem we've reached a pivotal moment of a shoujo romance. Please, I might just get dragged into it at this rate.

"I… don't understand any of this…" Zastin comments, dropping his sword to the ground, "I was supposed to be the one protecting the princess… but… she decided that it has to be you…"

Don't phrase it that way, I'm begging you. This is getting more embarrassing the more I think about what I said. Just say that she chose to stay on Earth, don't say that it was for me. Kyaa! My heart isn't ready for that kind of thing!

"Give me a bre—"

"I've lost…" Came Zastin's voice as he drops to the ground on his four, looking defeated.

What exactly did you lose, care to tell me? The only one about to lose their composure here is me, you stupid, knight, devil, alien thing!

"What the hell are you talking about?" I snapped at the male alien who now looked pathetic. Wait, was he crying?

"It was my duty to follow King Deviluke's order, which made me overlook how Princess Lala felt," He lowers his head, raising a fist as he seems guilty of something, whatever it is. "No, I knew but I tried not to think about it, yet now… I have to admit my… loss."

He turns around and walks away… now looking stoic? That isn't the behavior of someone who almost killed me, saying you lost makes me look stupid, you know? I'm the one that got beaten up again. At best, we should count this as a tepid tie.

And the part of shedding manly tears! Save that for cool protagonists, dammit!

"Wow… I never imagined I'd see you doing something like that…" Aikawa approaches and comments before grinning, "You do deserve this girl, Hachiman! But if you get married, don't have the honeymoon at your house, or else I won't be able to enjoy my peaceful time in my home."

"Shut up," I growl.

By the way, it seems Deviluke has stopped sobbing, but she still kept her arms around me. If you're okay now, feel free to release at any point. At this rate I might start thinking you were permanently affixed to me, and that's too scary to think about.

Oi, oi, don't look that comfortable!

Belldandy's giggle catches my attention as she stands by Aikawa's side, "Hachiman-san…"

Please stop looking at me like that, it's embarrassing. I'm already having to fight heart palpitations with Deviluke hugging me here, that look of admiration isn't helping one bit.

Zastin's voice echoes in the street once more.

"I doubt if the countless husband candidates from all the galaxy will be happy to hear this," I blink, what did he just say? "But I will report to King Deviluke myself that we can entrust Princess Lala to you."

"Oi, don't give me that kind of responsibility!" He stops, blinking. Was he going to cry again?

"Chu~"

"W-wha!?" Every muscle in my body tensed suddenly when I felt something soft against my cheek. I instantly tried breaking free from the shameless alien girl that had just kissed me, but it was in vain with her super strength. I have to thank my genes that no one in my family tree ever suffered from heart disease. I would be dead by now if that were the case!

"W-what the hell was that!?" I exclaim in disbelief. Even Belldandy was blushing, too. Deviluke simply giggled, with tears still in her eyes, but with such a warm expression on her face. Stop it!

I wriggle around, and put my hands against her shoulders so I could push myself out of her hold. Maybe my obvious discomfort was finally noticed, but Deviluke finally did release me.

Now free, I put a hand to my cheek in disbelief. She kissed me! That was my first! It may have been on my cheek, but it's still my first kiss, dammit! My heart was pounding wildly in response to what had just occurred. I needed to calm down; I have to relax, Deviluke probably just got swept up by raw and deceptive emotions. That's clearly what happened here.

Phew… Okay, let's focus back on what's at hand now.

I have an opportunity to have her stay here for the rest of the stupid game, I need to take advantage of it. But first I should clear off this misunderstanding, I wasn't volunteering myself as a marriage candidate, dammit.

"O-oi…" I eek out before clearing my throat. "Zastin…-san?"

Did honorifics mean anything to these aliens? Deviluke only uses them for her inventions.

"What is it?" The alien man turns around and asks, folding his arms.

Calm down Hachiman. There must be some way to solve this. Think objectively. Marriage is out of the question. I don't even want to think what will happen if people like Miura find out I got married to an alien princess. I don't want to die!

"Er, Zastin-san," I start with uncertainty. "Let's not… rush things… I mean, we're still too young."

"King Deviluke began his reign when he was in his adolescence, he is also the one who put an end to the countless wars across the galaxy. Managing the more peaceful galaxy of today should be easy in comparison," He responds casually.

Oi, I'm not some super powerful alien being that can become equal to that of a galactic peacekeeper.

I sigh, that was not a good approach, "What I mean is that Deviluke shouldn't just decide on her future husband so conveniently," Deviluke nudges my arm, pouting. I ignore it and continue, "She should, uh… Look, how about a compromise for the king?"

Zastin tilts his head to the side in thought, "Compromise?"

"Yeah… To make sure Princess Deviluke's future husband is, uh, worthy of her…" Saying something like that is making my stomach twist, but I have to resist, "Whoever they wind up being, how about if we set an amount of time for her to correctly choose a legitimate candidate." The pinkette doesn't seem happy about it, "If she doesn't find one, then she'll go ba—"

"I've already chosen you, Hachiman!" She clings to my arm again. You just don't know how to give people their personal space, do you? Quit it.

"Let's not rush things…" I turned to Zastin, "What do you say?"

"Ah!" He lands a fist on his palm, "So you want to prove yourself to be worthy of the princess?" What sort of understanding was that? You're an idiot, aren't you? "Then how about… one year?"

No way in hell! That's way too much time! We'll probably die in six months… maybe. Could be less for all I know. That won't do at all. Besides, what is there to do to prove myself worthy of Deviluke for a whole year? It's not like I had any intention in the first place, but still…

"That will be enough time, thank you Zastin-sama," The goddess speaks before I do, bowing to him, "Be sure to inform King Gid Lucione Deviluke of this development."

Who the heck told you that you had a say in this matter totally unrelated to you, you meddlesome goddess!? After glaring at her, I notice Zastin already departing.

I sigh, facepalming. Well, it could be worse I guess, like having that King of Deviluke thinking that I'll marry his daughter. At least I have one year to think on how to get out of this situation… Not to mention that I'll have plenty of time to discover if Deviluke is Deus Ex's creation. Although, he did say that the end of everything was nearing.

Once the alien knight and his ship departed, Belldandy brightly smiled at me. Deviluke seems a bit disappointed with what I compromised, but she'll get over it. Aikawa is yawning… He looks completely spent at the constant shock he was subjected to.

"Well, I believe I can remove the spell now," I blink at her comment, yet Deviluke is the one to address my inquiry.

"What spell, Belldy?"

She claps her hands together, a ring of light spreading all around the area, "I cast a spell to make everyone in a two kilometer radius fall into a deep sleep."

Oh, now I understand why no one noticed this… So she knew about Deviluke's plight before coming out of the house? I then hear someone clearing his throat. Belldandy, Deviluke and I turn to the person in question. It's of course, Aikawa.

"So, mind explaining what the hell just happened?"

Was it too late to knock him out and pretend it was a dream?

3-8

"…And that's basically it." I pinched the bridge of my nose to stave off a headache. After Deviluke gave a dramatically romanticized version of the events that led to this, fortune was on my side when the ever-moral Belldandy told Aikawa a more accurate telling of what happened… with some interruptions of mine for good measure.

Funnily enough, Deviluke offered to erase his memories even before the explanations began. It was a tempting idea, but Belldandy was, as expected, against it. I already had it my way with my parents, so I had to relent this time.

Now, Aikawa stared at us awkwardly, gaping

"Sheesh… If I hadn't witnessed all of this with my own eyes, I would have contacted an asylum to take you in," Yeah… I would have done the same, but it still pisses me off when you say it. "So you two are like hosts as you learn from us humans, right?"

You're making them sound like parasites there.

"Yes!" Deviluke raises a hand happily. Except for the redness in her eyes from crying, she had reverted to her usual self. I had to admit that I was relieved to see her return to normalcy after everything, even if that invited her being touchy-feely again.

Aikawa folds his arms and mutters to himself, "Maybe what happened some months ago was actually true…"

Huh? What is he talking about?

"Sorry about my family though," The pinkette continued, "Papa doesn't understand the importance of my mission!"

At least she's saying a half-truth.

She's curious about human life, but Aikawa believes she came here so she can become a better ruler in the future instead of just running away. It's easier on us, so we'll leave it at that. He might be stupid and a bit of a pervert when it comes to attractive females however, he was grinning at Deviluke and Belldandy the entire time.

Better than being a stuttering mess at least. If only barely.

"…" Belldandy doesn't say anything, but she knows she must comply. She did mention that she couldn't lie so her silence will have to be enough. "Actually…" I blink and stare at her inquisitively, "I also have a task to accomplish."

"Is that so?" Aikawa folds his arms, "I just hope nothing more like this happens again. It'll be hard enough to relax knowing that there are beings like you just outside my house. No offense."

"I don't mean any harm!" Deviluke insists, "I just want to marry Hachiman!"

I roll my eyes, "Whatever the case, don't tell anyone else. They're both here as exchange students living in my house if anyone asks. Got it?" I glare at him in emphasis to the last part. Can't afford him being a blabbermouth.

Aikawa raises a thumbs up, "Sure, sure, buddy. Well, time to hit the sack. I just hope I don't have too many nightmares…" He turns around and walks to his house, stopping mid-way. "No offense, uh, again."

Deviluke gives a thumbs up of her own and Belldandy simply nods.

"Get going already," I mutter.

Aikawa laughs, "Hachiman, you really have changed, now I can tell for sure. What you did before was awesome!"

I cock an eyebrow, "You hadn't realized? I've always been awesome."

I'm getting a sense of Deja-vu…

"Well, now I believe it."

"Idiot," I mutter and he laughs some more, going inside his house.

After that, the alien girl hugs the goddess tightly, "I'm so happy! Now I can stay here with you, Komachi, my new mommy and daddy, and…" She peeks at me from the corner of her eyes, smiling playfully, "And someone I think is so cool."

I closed my eyes, feigning disinterest, "Ah… Kamakura is pretty cool, actually."

"Your cat?" Deviluke blinks, and Belldandy giggles, "It's as cute as you too~"

I deadpanned, "Should I be happy about being compared to an animal?"

Deviluke sticks out her tongue at me before dragging Belldandy inside the house with her. I watch them go inside, only to hear Komachi's voice once they open the door. What time was it anyway?

I look at my phone. The time was 9:40 p.m.

It was getting late. Oh, I have two new messages.

The first one is from… That girl I met in the park, Suou Mikoto.

-Hey Hikigaya, it's me Suou! U already know dat though LOL. Just wanted 2 say hi, and about returning u dat favor for da meat, which was delicious by da way! (｡•̀ᴗ-)✧ I wanted 2 know if u'd come 2 my house on sunday?

This girl… She's too fast about inviting someone to her home, a boy no less, not to mention someone she just met today. I wonder if I should go or not. Free food though…

–I don't want to impose…

Actually, I don't want to go. Thinking about it more, even free food isn't enough to convince me to go with her. What if she's that killer Aikawa talked about? Oh, great… And I gave her my information too…

Anyway, now to check the other. The sender was Shidare Hotaru. Mmm… The dagashi girl?

-I've just arrived in Chiba, Hikigaya-kun. Ah, I brought sooooo many dagashi, there's plenty to try! My research will start again tomorrow! I'm counting on you to help me, okay? I'll reward you in any way you'd like~

…What the heck is with that last part?

–Sure. I'll see you then.

Wait, how am I supposed to know what she looks like? Do my contacts have images to go with them? I should check on that actually. Entering the contacts menu, I scroll down the list. Well, most of them do have faces to their names, that's a good sign. I blink, stopping when I come across a certain name…

Kasumigaoka Utaha.

I frown deeply as I remember what happened with her a few hours ago. She was someone that was supposedly close to me, close enough that I actually conspired with her to make Miura's life miserable. While I was able to put a stop to that, it came at the cost of turning my back on Kasumigaoka. I couldn't even leave things as they were now, if I did, I'd be giving away that I wasn't the same Hikigaya Hachiman the people here previously knew.

Hah… I'm not even entirely sure if I want to mend whatever wedge I created between us, even considering the game I was in.

The woman made the worst kind of impression on me, she mocked someone willing to risk her status quo just so she can achieve something she thought was genuine. I feel my stomach churn at that, my fists tightening until I feel a sting against my palms. But that genuine thing was nothing more than a cruel illusion, fabricated by my previous self and Kasumigaoka. How can I be expected to have anything more than a hostile relationship with that kind of person?

But… That was just one impression. It may have not been the best type, but it didn't show everything that made up her person. Yukihira was willing to defend her especially after what she did, even telling me that I had to make up with her afterwards. And with Yukihira being one of the few I don't entirely dislike in this new world, he might actually be someone I can rely on, if only a little. He isn't a bad guy, quite the opposite actually, and he looks to be a pretty good judge of character. Given all of that, Kasumigaoka must have some kind of redeeming qualities that he cherishes enough to call her a friend.

Whatever the case, I think I had enough for today. I'll deal with that la—

A sudden vibration comes from my phone… Another message? Ah, it's from Suou again.

-Impose? What's with dat? I told u already, it's no problem at all! Haha! Hiki-baka! Stop being such a girl! U can bring friends if u want 2.

Goodness me, this girl sure is adamant. Hey wait, who are you calling a girl? That's sexist! Apologize to your fellow gender this instant!

–…Can't you just pay me back at a restaurant instead?

Only a minute passes before her reply arrives.

-Eeeh… that's… like, a date, isn't it? Haha…

I have to sigh, she's misunderstanding my intentions already.

–Food at your house is fine, I guess.

Oh, this time her reply came in just thirty seconds! Now that I think about it, isn't going to her house worse than going to a restaurant? How is the latter a bigger issue for her?

-What's dat supposed 2 mean? (-_-)

–It means I'm fine with eating at your house, obviously.

This time, it takes her around 2 minutes to respond. At least stay consistent, dammit.

-I didn't mean dat, jerk. Whatever, stop making fun of me. I'll send u my house's directions tomorrow… jerk.

Did you really have to repeat that?

–Sure.

With that I close my phone.

Heh, what an odd woman. Maybe she'll realize her mistake when I show up.

3-9

I sigh in relief as I finally take a seat on my beloved bed.

I hadn't realized how tired I really was until just now. I needed this, after everything that happened in the span of a single day, I deserve at least some rest. Then again, after being healed by Belldandy, I did have some energy to spend. I don't want to sound ungrateful, but I did have to ponder on the trade-off here…

*Knock Knock*

I blink, directing my attention to the door of my bedroom. Who is it now? It's already well past ten. Whoever that is should realize to not bother me in my inner sanctum.

*Knock Knock*

There it goes again… Maybe if I stay quiet, whoever it is might think I'm asleep.

*Knock Knock*

Stay… quiet…

*Knock Knock* *Knock Knock* *Knock Knock* *Knock Knock* *Knock Knock* *Knock Knock*

Gah. Shut up already. Some people are trying to sleep in this house.

*Knock Knock* *Knock Knock* *Knock Knock* *Knock Knock* *Knock Knock* *Knock Knock*

*Knock Knock* *Knock Knock* *Knock Knock* *Knock Knock* *Knock Knock* *Knock Knock*

*Knock Knock* *Knock Knock* *Knock Knock* *Knock Knock* *Knock Knock* *Knock Knock*

Now it's getting scary… Komachi would've already called out to me by now, but I'm not that sure about my parents… Nah, they probably wouldn't have knocked. Plus Belldandy is not one to be this… annoying…

Deviluke… Yeah… It's definitely her.

"Alien invaders are forbidden from my private sanctuary after dark," I say out loud so she can hear through the door.

"Ehhhh!? How did you know it was me…?" Deviluke's voice comes from the other side of the door as expected, "Ah! Maybe now you can sense me because we're so in love?"

"No one else is this obnoxious," I growl out. She stays quiet then… Huh? Did she leave...? Maybe she did… but I have this feeling she's still there. I slowly unlock the door… I hesitate in turning the knob. Geez… I don't want to open it, "Oi, Deviluke? Still there?"

"Of course, Hachiman!" I turn my head slowly to the left, noticing pink bubblegum hair. My eyes widen as I see the stupid alien girl coming from the ground, as if she used some sort of trapdoor to get inside my bedroom. I swear that wasn't there in the morning! And we're on the second floor!

"D-Deviluke…!" I stammered in surprise, "How did you…?"

She grins, "With Dig-Dig Tunnel-kun!" She raised a hand, a tiny circular device in her hand, "I can create tunnels anywhere with it!"

I sigh. It seems this will be as good of a time as any to talk about privacy, not invading others' personal space, and not intruding on one's safe haven. As she finally steps out from the hole on the ground, I can't help becoming tense.

I could say that it was because there was a girl my age inside my bedroom at night, which is something completely new to me. I don't even know how to react. The main reason though is the fact that Deviluke only sported the long shirt she wore during breakfast, which apparently belonged to me.

Be still, my racing heart.

"I think I need some clarifications about your inventions," I say, not looking at her. My cheeks are probably red, so having Deviluke not see them is for the best. "Namely what you just used to get inside, or any other item that would allow you to."

She sits on my bed… with her legs crossed… Why do you have to be so shameless, Alien-san?

"Sure Hachiman! What about them?" She tilts her head innocently. Don't give me that crap.

"How many of them do you actually have?" I inquire, "I mean, where do you store them? That's your sixth one already."

Deviluke giggles in amusement, "Oh, yeah! I have lots of them!" She puts a hand inside the shirt, between her… her… Why do you have your phone there!? "See this? It's my personal customized phone, D-Dial. It uses dimension technology, where all my inventions are stored. Consider it a user's virtual space."

I drag the chair of my desk in front of the bed, taking a seat. I'm not sure if I fully grasp what she said. Let's confirm it.

"So this is like having a magical pouch that can store items, no matter the size?"

She tilts her head, her long pink hair reaching the bed. That was incredibly intimidating. I can see way too much of you, you dimwitted alien! I just hope that you're wearing something beneath that shirt or we're going to have some serious problems here.

"Mmm? I suppose it's something close to that," She puts a hand over her mouth, giggling again, "But it's not magic, silly."

Alright… time to draw the line then.

"Seeing as how you'll be staying here for a while, there are some rules you'll need to follow," I inform her, resting my elbows on my knees, "First. My room is off-limits. Let me be clear, you can't enter my room without my expressed permission. Is that clear?"

She's silent for a moment, "Why not? This room will be our love nest," She puffs her cheeks, just like some kid would do. "After we marry, this will also be my bedroom…"

Still saying nonsense, huh…?

"You don't get a say in the matter," I ignore the awkward situation and manage to look at her dryly.

She slowly nods her head with a pout, "Okay, Hachiman…"

"Second," I start, clearing my throat. "Don't use those inventions of yours too often. I won't be able to explain them to others if you use them in public."

She averts her gaze, not looking happy, "Meanie, Hachi-baka…"

I stare blankly, raising three fingers, "Third. Try not to wear that costume of yours in the streets. People might mistake you as some sort of cosplayer, and I don't want you to call too much attention to yourself," I notice her tail moving behind her. "Uh, that tail… Can you remove it?"

"Nope! Not unless you want to hurt me, Hachiman."

Well, I guess it doesn't work as it did with the Saiyans. I have to wonder if a full moon would transform her into something scary. Let's just hope that's not the case.

"Does everyone on your planet have a tail?" I ask, leaning on the chair.

"Yes, all the Devilukians are born with a tail," She explains, "You must know that some tails are sensitive, like mine." As she continued, her tail, which had a spade-shaped tip, moved just before my face, "When someone touches my tail, my strength evaporates, so please, treat it with care."

I observe it as she swings it around in front of her. So it's basically a Saiyan's tail without the transformation part. What a rip-off, evolution should have gotten rid of that useless limb of yours generations ago. I do have to wonder if it does work like she says.

"I see…" I mutter. I may have to remember this in case she does something reckless. But Deviluke, isn't it imprudent to reveal your weakness? Most villains always take advantage of that in shounen manga, you know? "Just make sure to hide it from everyone."

"Okay! Any more rules?" She asks. It's rather amusing that this conversation feels like I'm dealing with a child. She sure acts like one.

"Ah, yeah… Right. Four, don't reveal your origins to anybody else," I peek at the window, "Aikawa is the obvious exception since he saw all that stuff with your father's henchmen."

"You already told me that, silly."

I roll my eyes, "Just making sure you don't forget it." With my arms folded, I add, "One last thing."

"Oh? What is it?" She sits at the edge of the bed, leaning towards me. I blink as her assets are becoming visible from that position. Seriously, you should be more careful doing these kinds of things, woman.

"Cut the crap about us being lovers," I state this seriously so as to prevent any sort of misunderstanding on her part.

She blinks in surprise, "Why?"

"'Why?' Obviously because it isn't true," I replied casually.

Deviluke frowns slightly, "I don't want to."

"What?" I frown back at that.

"I don't want to," She raises her tone, much to my surprise, "I don't want to!"

"O-oi! Quiet down!" I whisper harshly, "What's your problem?"

"I don't want to, Hachiman!" She whines, standing from the bed. She began to wave her arms wildly, "I won't accept that rule! I won't! You are my only one!"

This brat… Stop acting like a kid.

"Cut it out already," I tried to shut her up.

However, it's to no avail, "No! Hachiman is being so mean! I don't want to! I don't want…"

Gah. This is getting really annoying already. How can I get her to stop? I blink as I see her tail flick around wildly as Deviluke continued her tantrum. Well, looks like I'll be able to observe if she was telling the truth about that after all. It's one way to quiet her down. Here goes.

"K-kya!" She briefly screams once I grab her tail, her body trembling as she falls back onto the bed again. I grip her tail firmly and she lets out a… weird sound. But she's quieted down, that's the main thing.

"Finally. Do you have to be so lou—" I stop whatever I was trying to say when my eye lands on the alien.

Her legs were rubbing against one another, she vice-gripped both the bedframe and her shirt tightly as she let her body stretch over the mattress.

It was indeed true, she seems to have lost all her will to argue with me, but for some reason, she's holding a weirdly embarrassing expression… She's completely red, and tears are pooling in her eyes. Am I hurting her or something?

"Ha-Hachiman~" She whispers my name, a chill running down my body.

C-could it be that…? When she said it was sensitive, she meant in that sort of way? You… You empty-headed alien! Be more specific when explaining these things!

I let go of her tail as if it were on fire. Standing from the chair as Deviluke's tense body seems to relax again, however, her breathing is agitated and she is sweating. The sight of her lying on the bed with just a shirt was just… eh… it was… too…

Uuhhh…

N-no! Stop it, Hachiman! You almost fell for that! You're a gentleman. Look away from this dangerous sight and remain pure!

And as always, life always finds the best of times to make everything go to hell for me. The door of my bedroom is opened by my mother, and behind her are both Komachi and Belldandy. Shit, I think I unlocked the door when I thought Deviluke was still outside. Just my luck!

"What on earth is this, Hachiman!?" My mother was seriously pissed. When was the last time I saw her like that?

My sister looks between Deviluke, who's still lying on the bed, face flushed, and I face pale.

"No, wait. This seriously isn't what it looks like," I start to say but…

"O-onii-chan!? What w-were you doing!?" She covers her mouth in shock.

Then my mother steps up to me and presses her index finger onto my forehead, "Boy, I thought we agreed to 'No Questionable Behavior' inside the house!" I purse my lips as her lecture begins, "What sort of indecent example you're setting for your little sister!?"

I feel my eyebrow twitch as she continues, and I notice Belldandy looking on in pure confusion. Did she actually not know what this actually looks like? Was she really that naive or something?

"I'm telling you it's not like that," I retort. "Don't jump to conclusions before I even explain what really happened."

At that moment, Pops sticks his head inside the room, staring blankly at the scene in my bedroom. Suddenly, he flashes me a smile and a thumbs up. This isn't the kind of support I need right now, you stupid perverted geezer! How is my failure in setting a good example being put up to question here instead of yours?

"Otou-san!" My mother glares at him, scowling. Oh, there it goes… at least I won't be the only one having his ship sunk, "Don't go encouraging such sort of conduct!"

The old timer raises his hands in a defensive manner, "I'm so sorry, Okaa-san! I'm a man with weakness! I was so proud of my son finally reaching this point that I didn't realize there was a problem!" He looks at me, serious all of a sudden. What? It's too late to act like a responsible father, old geezer, "Oi, boy. Do you realize what you have done!?"

"I haven't done anything at all, dammit!" I growl out. Don't try pulling that after losing your integrity less than thirty seconds ago! "Skip the pointless lecture, and go to sleep."

Deviluke finally sits up on the bed, apparently recovered from whatever happened to her when I gripped her tail, "What's the problem, Mommy? Can't I visit my future husba—"

"And take her with you," I cut her off before she aggravates the problem.

"Lala-chan!" My mother stares at her with disapproval, "As a young and respectable lady, you can't by any reason visit the room of a boy, much less at night! You are not even married, and you two are nowhere near ready to have that kind of relationship. What if you get her preg—"

"Whoa! Whoa! Okaa-san!" Pops raises his tone, surprised, "Remember that Komachi-chan is here! Don't speak about that stuff in front of her pure ears!"

"Oh my…" Belldandy looked uncomfortable now. It would be weird if she wasn't, considering the absurdity of this situation. Honestly, you two are making this entire thing worse with this horribly awkward talk of yours.

"Lala-chan! You can't trust him and those dubious eyes of his to not take advantage of you!"

Oi, oi… Is that how you talk about your own son? Actually, she may know how bad I was previously to say something like that. From what I've witnessed in the past two days, it would make sense. I wonder if she's aware of my… 'relationship' with Haruno…

"Tch," I look away in annoyance, "If anything, I'll be the one who gets taken advantage of."

Silence follows and both my parents stare at me in disbelief. Komachi sports a likewise expression, while Belldandy and Deviluke look more confused. You two… are you both dense?

And before I could blink, the shouting starts again, different points of views clashing, with a minor spoonful of whines from a certain alien girl. Seriously… I seriously can't catch a break, not even this late into the night.

I stare blankly, silent, before I sense a vibration from my phone. I ignored the yelling to read the two messages I received.

The one on top of the list is from Miura.

-Hachiman! Have sweet dreams! ( ˘ ³˘)❤

Good grief… I appreciate the thought, but I'm far from even reaching that goal, Miura-tan. I text her a simple 'Same', before reading the other message, that arrived 10 minutes before Miura's one. This belonged to my bubbly sempai.

-My first message to Hachiman-kun. It's a bit embarrassing. (⌒_⌒;) Sleep early so you can get better! I'll get mad if I see you tired tomorrow. ʕ•ᴥ•ʔ Okay? (_)

I can't help but huff as I text back at Shiromeguri despite the chaos occurring in my surroundings. Another lone 'Sure' will have to do.

I looked up from my phone and the bickering was still going. Gah… How can a simple misunderstanding create this much havoc? Well, I have been dealing with more than one throughout the day, and there's plenty of them I still have to clear.

Misunderstandings… huh?

How do they start, how do they end? It's all rather simple actually, it's people that complicate it. So many different points of views and interpretations that mold different kinds of conclusions, which many times end in an entirely wrong concept of the object, situation or person involved. Ultimately leading to, you guessed it, a misunderstanding.

I know that well as I myself have fallen victim to that throughout my entire life. My naivety and my goal of trying to be accepted by others made me blind to what reality truly was, so using my limited concept of the world surrounding me and my lack of perception, I misunderstood people's intent, and that caused me to get ridiculed by those who never intended to accept me in the first place.

All I got were lies and disappointments due to my blind optimism and desperate search for company, or whatever I thought I desired when I was younger. Yeah, I was that stupid, and as such, it's not much of a surprise that people treated me as if I were.

Even with Orimoto Kaori, I completely misunderstood her kindness, one that was not only directed at me, but to everyone else. She was a nice girl after all… And that caused me to create false assumptions inside my head, believing that I was special to her. I got rejected then for my desperate wish of finally fitting in school like all the others. And yet it was that selfishness and stupidity of mine that helped forge me into who I am today.

Funny how things turn out.

So many relationships, friendships and even families can end due to that damn thing, misunderstanding. It can lead you to accidentally destroy ties as well as unwillingly create them in a never-ending cycle of ignorance, stubbornness, and false assumptions. I can't deny that poor luck can play a lesser role in them, but in the end, the cruel reality of humankind is where their true origins lay.

As I look at the continuing chaos that befell in my bedroom, I can see the different points of view and misinformation crashing violently due to the bad timing of a girl who was too dense to understand what she had caused. It was ironic, and absurd.

This was a world I had no business being in. All of the people I recognize are mere spoofs of their original selves, but they already had their established relationships. Who was I in this world but a fake version of the Hikigaya Hachiman that lived here beforehand?

Deus Ex said he brought me here because he felt I was the one of the two only candidates that could possibly change this world. I don't know how much I could believe him, if I can believe him. But he saw something in me that was deemed valuable enough.

But…

What if he was wrong?

What if, in his rush to protect his reality, Deus Ex brought me here by accident?

There's nothing particularly special about me, my grades aren't that great, only just above average, and I was no more physically capable than the average person. Heck, I've had to rely on my supposed gifts the same day of my arrival. So what exactly can I do here? What can I save?

I sigh heavily as I continue watching the familiar yet unfamiliar strangers that were my 'family' and the two new anomalies in this new life. The more I think about it, the more I'm convinced that my existence in this alternate world was all a misunderstanding made by a god who vastly overestimated me.

So the real question is… Was he wrong or…

Was I really meant to be here?

---

Chapter 03 END

---

GTO The Host 04

Zzzzzzz...

"Oi, oi! It's time for the character presentations!"

Inside an ambiguous classroom, a man with short blonde hair, dressed in a white suit over a blue shirt, was fast asleep, his head resting on the desk. By his side stood a boy with black hair that fell over his forehead, who sported a dark-blue uniform and glasses.

This young boy had made several attempts to wake the teacher, Onizuka, but all efforts had been in vain.

"Geez… I suppose I'm gonna have to take care of this myself," Turning toward the readers, the boy's countenance bore a solemn and earnest expression. "Readers and followers of this story! I'm Aki Tomoya, founder, director and scenario writer for the Doujin Circle Blessing Software!"

After fixing his glasses, Aki continued, "I'm the main protagonist of the series: Saenai Heroine no Sodatekata (How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend), also known as Saekano. My main goal in the story is to create the ultimate and greatest game that will allow all hearts to sing and dance altoge—"

The door was slammed open, Aki's speech cut short.

Stepping into the classroom, a young man exuding an intimidating aura, let out a yawn before casting his gaze upon the readers. His hands remained tucked inside his pockets as he stood there, dressed in black pants and a matching jacket. With black sunglasses and a headband adorning his head, he spoke.

"Is it my turn yet?"

Aki pointed a finger at him, "Of course not! I was still introducing myself!" And folded his arms, "Can't blame you though, being completely disrespectful and uncaring of others is one of your core character traits."

"The hell did you just say?" The man scratched his head.

"So here he is, Harima Kenji! Deteuragonist of the School Rumble series! A romantic shounen comedy revolving around the daily lives of class 2-C of Yagami High School, along with their friends and famil—"

Noticing Aki engrossed on his laptop, Harima interjected, "What the hell is a deterua— whatever! Wait, are you reading all that from the internet!?"

Aki nodded, "Of course! Wikipedia is very helpful!"

"Idiot! That's… Actually a good idea…"

As a new presence entered the room, Harima promptly turned his attention to the laptop, more interested in the content it displayed.

Meanwhile, a girl dressed in a Yagami High School uniform stood before the class, her hands resting confidently on her hips. Her dark blue hair cascaded down to her shoulders, framing her gray eyes.

"Hey guys," She waved at both Harima and Aki, "Can I start?"

"Of course, Suou Mikoto!" Aki stepped forward, his tone stoic, "One of the main supporting characters in School Rumble! Strong, reliable, friendly and pretty, she's one of the most popular students in—"

Suou suddenly seized Aki by the head, her cheeks slightly flushed, "W-wasn't I supposed to introduce myself? And what's with all that lame flattery?"

"...U-uh…" Aki barely managed to speak, "Y-you're also good at martial arts, aren't you?"

"Well, I was planning to say that myself…" She let out a sigh, relinquishing his grip, which resulted in Aki's face colliding with the ground, "Well… that's that."

"When is Ten— er… Is Tsukamoto going to appear?" Harima asked and Suou shrugged her shoulders,

"No idea, maybe in a few chapters…? Why do you ask? Oh, you're dating Tsukamoto Yakumo, right?"

"Damn it, no! That's a freakin' misunderstanding!" Harima growled out, holding his head in desperation. "I need to clear that up…" He abruptly halted, causing everyone in the class to take notice of the light streaming in through the window, "What the hell?"

The window was flung open by a powerful gust of wind, allowing an intense light to flood into the whole room, casting the silhouette of a man drawing nearer. The entire class watched in shock as an armored man with grayish hair entered through the window, and the dazzling display of lights dissipated.

"Was that an actual alien spaceship?" Aki mumbled in disbelief.

"Greeting earthlings, I've come to make my long-awaited introduction!" He declared with enthusiasm, "I am Zastin. Princess Lala's personal bodyguard, and the strongest swordsman in all of Deviluke," The shock had rendered everyone in the room incapable of reacting, so the man continued without any interruption. "I'm also the commander of Planet Deviluke's Royal Guards."

Aki, regaining his composure, nodded and cleared his throat, "S-sure… Zastin, a supporting character in the To Love-Ru series. I heard you had a terrible sense of direction. I'm surprised you managed to get here in time."

"I have no recollection of that being true. You must be talking about someone else," He hastily replied.

Observing him intently, Suou narrowed her gaze, "Hold on a minute, why do you look beaten up? There are cracks on your armor… not to mention that big bump on your head."

"I have no idea what you're talking about," Despite his response, it was evident that he was lying, his forehead glistening with sweat.

"Now that you mention it… your arrival seemed more like you were blasted towards that window than arriving here on your own," Aki's gaze shifted towards a passing train in the distance. "You weren't hit by that train, were you?"

"…I… have no idea what you're talking about!" Anxiety filled Zastin's voice as he exclaimed, his eyes darting upward to the ceiling.

"It was luck then…" Harima concluded, "This guy is a tough bastard."

Aki fixed his glasses again, "Well, that would be all for today as our presenter is still dozing off. I'm Aki Tomoya, founder, director and writ—"

"Shut up!" Harima and Suou yelled

Meanwhile, a sleeping Onizuka mumbled in his sleep, saliva on his arm, "23 years old… big boobs massage… Hehehe…"

"Gross! This guy reminds me of Imadori," Suou sweatdropped before she turned her attention to the readers, "Well…" She winked, "See you all in the next chapter!"