The quiet streets of Hachiouji, Japan embraced the cover of night, with the sky draped in darkness and pockets of light scattered across the cityscape. The roar of engines faded into the distance as the two motorcycle riders weaved through the urban labyrinth, leaving the pursuers stranded in the city's chaos.
Sallie clung to the rider's sturdy frame, his grip tightening as they sped toward the shrine's entrance. In the distance, the sacred site beckoned, and the briefcase he held hinted at the mysterious purpose behind their urgent journey.
The entrance to the Kyuuchouji Temple revealed a gracefully arched torii gate, painted in vermilion red and adorned with intricate black symbols. Beyond it, a stone pathway led through a serene garden, guiding visitors toward the sacred sanctuary surrounded by ancient trees.
The motorbike rumbled to a stop on the smooth stone floor of the shrine's entrance, its powerful engine now replaced by a hushed reverence. Ahead, the path extended, bordered by ancient lanterns and surrounded by towering cryptomeria trees, creating an atmosphere that whispered of secrets and centuries-old rituals. It beckoned them to venture deeper into the sacred realm.
Sallie questioned the enigmatic rider, dressed in a black kimono and helmet. "Is this it, sir?"
"Just follow me," he responded in English, his words tinged with a Japanese accent, as they prepared to unveil the mysteries that lay ahead.
The mysterious rescuer dismounted his bike before Sallie, leading him through the arch torii gate. Together, they entered the wooden structure with a stripped roof, its ancient aura unfolding around them as they ventured into the heart of the shrine.
Sallie, who donned with black tuxedo outfits and a black round hat, found himself embraced In the courtyard, shadows danced in the soft glow of midnight's golden lanterns, casting a warm embrace upon him, a wooden structure with a pitched roof, adorned with Shimenawa and shide. The design, a testament to traditional Japanese aesthetics, featured torii gates, stone lanterns, and symbolic statues, creating an atmosphere that whispered of centuries-old rituals and spiritual significance.
Surrounded by the echoing footsteps, the mysterious rescuer observed several men in kimonos approaching. Standing before Sallie, he spoke in fluent Japanese to the enigmatic figures, weaving a conversation that hinted at a connection to the mysterious man who wore a helmet.
"Yakumo-san, we managed to repel the ongoing pursuers as you said," one of the monks reported."Thank you so much. Please continue to be discreet and keep your guard up. A few of them are still on the loose," the helmeted man instructed, to which the monk respectfully bowed, replying, "As you wish, sir."
"How's everything going, sir?" inquired the monk on the left.
"It went well..."
"Are you sure about this guy, sir?" questioned the monk, glancing at Sallie. "One of the notorious fugitives was after him."
"It figures that he is an important person to me. I'm sure he has connections to the hotel incident," the man in the helmet said, casting a gaze at Sallie.
Confused, Sallie stood there, unable to understand Japanese.
"You sure you know this guy, I can tell, sir..." a monk placed his hands on his waist.
"Don't be surprised... He couldn't understand what we're saying since he arrived here," the man in the helmet explained, crossing his arms.
"He is a foreigner, right?" asked another monk.
"Yes. To be honest, he is a student, or in this case, a magician," the helmeted man disclosed.
"Man, most of these people always come from the USNA. Some of them are transferred students. If he's a foreigner, then he originally came from the USNA?" the monk asked.
The man in the helmet chuckled heartily, the echoes of amusement resonating through the courtyard, as one of the monks, with an awkward expression, had mistakenly guessed the origin of the foreigner.
"What's so funny, sir?" another monk asked, confused.
"I'm sure you've seen people coming from the USNA, whether for studying abroad or business, but you might be wrong," the man in the helmet said, still chuckling as he held his stomach. "Do you recognize the flag on his shoulder?"
"Oh, you mean that!?" the monk exclaimed as his eyes widened with realization, fixating on Sallie's federal armband that bore the unmistakable emblem of the Federal Republic of the Philippines.
The monk bowed, saying, "I'm so sorry, sir... I didn't mean that he was an Asian foreigner."
"It's fine... I just know him. Or, in this case, he just knows me as well," the man in the helmet said, turning to glance at Sallie behind him.
"But why did they come after him?" the monk asked, a furrow forming on his forehead. "Did he do something wrong? Is that why you asked us for a favor to rescue this guy?"
"It's because he came from that country, he has connections about the hotel incident. We need to unravel the motives behind their relentless pursuit of the hotel—a cover for their illicit operations hidden from the government's watchful eyes. I believe I've discovered the key to exposing the truth."
A monk, his curiosity evident, questioned, "How are you going to do that?"
The man in the helmet cast a knowing glance at Sallie behind him. "I might have a private conversation with this guy; he knows something." The air hung heavy with anticipation as the mysterious rescuer hinted at unraveling the web of intrigue shrouding the haunted hotel incident.
"I just wanted to have a word with him in private. Please excuse us," the man in the helmet stated with a nod towards the monks. As the monks respectfully retreated, the ambient sounds of the courtyard replaced their presence, leaving Sallie and the mysterious man in a secluded enclave. The air held a subtle tension, suggesting that the impending private conversation would unveil layers of the enigma.
The man in the helmet sighed, his breath audible, before he removed the headgear, exposing a cleanly shaved bald head that identified him as a monk. Turning towards Sallie, he deliberately shifted, revealing a light scar on his left eye. Switching to English, he spoke, "Would you mind showing me some gratitude... At least for a moment."
"Who... Are you..? You're one of the monks in the shrine, behind that helmet...? Thanks... I didn't realize you were saving me from getting pinned. But why are you...?" Sallie stammered, his confusion evident as he tried to make sense of the unexpected revelation.
"This is not a shrine, my friend," he declared, the playful lilt in his voice carrying a sense of mystery. Revealing a cleanly shaved head as he removed the helmet, the monk revealed as a figure from a Buddhist temple. With a teasing smile, he pointed at Sallie's nose. "You must be Sallie Mae Salcedo..."
Sallie, bewildered, demanded, "Wait... Hold on a sec... How the heck do you know my name...?"
"Don't be surprised..." the bald monk chimed, moving his pointing fingers up and down with a mischievous twinkle. "I have known you since your parents introduced me to your... background. I've known your secrets, my friend..."
"Keep this secret to yourself, bitch," Sallie retorted, slapping the monk's hand in an annoyed manner, the courtyard bearing witness to the unfolding encounter.
"Hey, relax, I'm just really teasing you, my friend..." the bald monk's voice carried a playful tone as he spoke, his eyes reflecting the mirth behind the banter.
"Indeed... But seriously, I'm not in the mood for that," Sallie retorted, crossing his arms. A subtle tension lingered in the air, overshadowing the monk's jest. "Seriously, how the hell did you know me?" Sallie's inquiry hung in the courtyard, echoing the confusion etched across his face.
"Your daddy told me about you, kid. He said you're something special in you." The playful bald monk extended a finger, pointing at Sallie's nose with a sense of familiarity. Lightly touching it, his gesture held a mixture of connection and mischief, adding layers to the unfolding interaction. "Oh, I forgot to introduce myself to you since I know you and you don't know me just yet. I'm Kokonoe Yakumo." The courtyard seemed to hold its breath as Kokonoe Yakumo, the once mysterious rescuer, leaned toward Sallie. The air carried a subtle tension, waiting for the impact of this revelation.
"Jeez... Back off, dude... Ok... It's a pleasure to meet you... It's not what you think that you know my dad, I guess." Sallie's eyes widened, a mixture of surprise and skepticism evident in his expressive gaze. With dismissive hand gestures, he attempted to navigate the unexpected encounter, yet the courtyard retained a lingering anticipation of the unfolding dynamics between the two.
"Be my guest... And... In serious business indeed. So... Let's get to the discussion, shall we...?" Kokonoe said, distancing himself a little bit.
"Ok... But..."
"But don't worry... Your discussion with you and me in the night is guaranteed safe and sound," he assured, creating an air of confidentiality in the dimly lit courtyard.
"Ok... But thanks for saving me from that hotel incident..." Sallie bowed, expressing gratitude.
"It's no problem... But... I mean no problem... You have to show me some gratitude... Start from now on..." Kokonoe smiled, a subtle hint of expectation in his expression. "But... I mean... 'I want something in return...'" The courtyard hung in suspense as Kokonoe's words lingered, introducing a new layer of intrigue to their unfolding conversation.
"Something In return..."
Kokonoe's stern gaze bore into Sallie, his words heavy with unspoken tension. "Sallie-kun, ever wondered why those Tagalog-speaking guys are hot on your trail?" The teenager, clad in a sleek black suit, recoiled in shock.
Sallie's eyes widened as realization dawned. "Wait... The ones who speak my language? I know them..." His fingers trembled, finding solace under his mouth as the weight of the revelation sank in.
The playful bald monk grinned. "So, did you uncover the mystery?"
Sallie nodded, recounting, "Yes, I saw them at a convenience store in Hachiouji, Tokyo. They claimed a connection to the haunted hotel. I managed to erase the supernatural entities they created, ensuring a peaceful sleep. However, once I understood their Filipino language, I overheard discussions hinting at their involvement in covert operations."
"Those guys, they spilled their secrets like a cracked dam," Sallie divulged with intensity. "Their boss, the puppeteer of the haunted hotel, was their shield against government scrutiny. When I obliterated that supernatural cover, they erupted in rage. Convinced it was the Japanese High School magicians, the ones in the ominous green coats, they plotted vengeance, targeting the girls in the convenience store. Their anger was palpable, fueled by the unraveling of their illicit operations."
Sallie's voice hardened. "To make matters worse, they emptied the convenience store during the chaos, robbing it clean."
Kokonoe pressed for more information, "And who are these Filipino assailants pursuing you?"
Sallie described them, "They donned sleeveless motorbike suits, resembling wannabe biker gang members with Philippines flag tattoos. Their attire, torn and rugged, hinted at a biker gang affiliation with the unmistakable signs of wear on their suits and jeans."
"I eavesdropped on their clandestine conversations, the echo of Tagalog revealing their darkest secrets, unaware that my comprehension unraveled their carefully guarded truths,"
The playful bald monk persisted, "Have you laid bare their deepest illicit operations?"
Sallie's expression tightened, "I was on the brink until their ambush thwarted me. Motives, origins, factions—I yearned for answers, but all I possess is a glimpse. Brace yourselves; the Japanese High School magicians are unwittingly tiptoeing into this imminent turmoil." His fingers gripped the edge of his thoughts, a silent resolve etched on his face.
"Collect pieces that will unveil the truth, my friend, and you'll have something to offer in return," Kokonoe advised.
Sallie, wary of past setbacks, inquired, "But how? Taking secrets seems to lead to thwarting every time."
Kokonoe reassured, "No need for drastic measures. Unraveling secrets is a slow process, step by step, bit by bit. Patience is your ally in uncovering the truth."
"Wait... How do you know that I was the informer in training?"
Kokonoe responded, "I know because it's your habitual inclination. Even back in middle school, you were adept at it. Unfortunately, your teachers from your country were more deaf than ever, connecting you to a favorite student who ultimately betrayed you."
"I gleaned from your father that you're his informant, undergoing training," Kokonoe observed. "As the informer, you require a method to gather crucial information, shielding the truth from those assailants without facing constant setbacks."
Sallie stood there, a mixture of curiosity and confusion etched across his face.
"To unravel the secrets of the organization that targets you, there's a place where you can amass vital intel," Kokonoe stated.
Eager for specifics, Sallie questioned, "Where is it?"
Kokonoe's gaze hardened. "Enroll in the 'National Magic University affiliated college.' It's not just a shelter; it's your gateway to the truth. Alternatively, consider 'First High School' for the same purpose."
"First High School?"
Kokonoe nodded, "It's located in Hachiouji, Tokyo, my friend."
"What is National Magic University affiliated First High School anyway? It's already home of the Japanese High School Magicians right?"
Yakumo delved into an extensive explanation about First High School, elucidating it as the University of Magic. He detailed the enrollment process in the Magic Technical Institute of Specialized Higher Training, highlighting its reputation for producing top-tier Magicians and Magic Technicians. Every facet of the curriculum and the formidable entrance exam's challenges were meticulously laid out, a thorough explanation consuming a considerable amount of time.
He meticulously outlined Course 1, emphasizing the honor students with exceptional entrance exam performance or notable educational achievements. Practical skills took precedence over theory, carrying greater weight in exam scores.
In contrast, Course 2 earned the mocking moniker 'Weeds' at First High. While successful in entering the Magic High School, their practical skills lagged behind Course 1. Hindered by a shortage of teachers, they resorted to computer lessons instead of traditional education.
Yakumo continued his thorough explanation, unraveling the intricacies of senior high schools specialized in magic or magic engineering. Details about specialized courses, unique disciplines, and the fusion of magical and engineering studies unfolded, providing a comprehensive picture of the educational landscape tailored for aspiring magicians and magic engineers.
Sallie shrugged, remarking, "So, this is why Japan has advanced so far compared to the high school in my country."
Kokonoe nodded, adding, "Of course, I arrived here just a year ago. They lack something crucial for progressing through the generations, at least for the time being."
Sallie asked, "You said the National Magic University is the only gateway to the truth, right?"
Kokonoe affirmed, "Exactly. Now that you've graduated middle school and hold a "Casting Assistant Device" in your hand, it's crucial for you to enroll there. Everything you need is encapsulated in that magic inside your briefcase." Kokonoe pointed at Sallie's briefcase with a sense of urgency.
Sallie realized, "Oh, you mean this...? I remember now. I bought it with my saved-up money from a part-time job, thinking it was just a regular briefcase. I didn't realize it was a C.A.D hidden inside."
Kokonoe nodded, "Exactly. In the Nine Schools specialized in magic, C.A.D is the name of the game. And you are the perfect candidate for enrollment."
Sallie expressed concern, "But how exactly am I going to enroll there? They said only Japanese citizens with Japanese citizenship can enroll."
Kokonoe explained an alternative path for Sallie to enter First High School. Detailed information about a rigorous entrance exam surfaced, where Sallie would need to showcase not only his academic proficiency but also his abilities in a variety of subjects. The pathway to this prestigious magical school became clearer, albeit challenging.
Sallie learned that in addition to academic achievements, First High School prioritizes students with outstanding results in extracurriculars, be it sports or areas of expertise. The holistic approach to admissions emphasized a well-rounded skill set for aspiring students.
He discovered that, while not mandatory, there might be instances where proof of Japanese citizenship is required for admission to First High School. Being a foreign student, he realized there could be additional challenges to overcome in securing a spot in elite schools in Japan.
Kokonoe inquired, "So, may I ask again, are you ready to choose the easy way or the hard way?"
Sallie weighed his options, "If I choose the easy path, I'd need Japanese citizenship and proficiency in the language, which I'm not good at. If I take the hard path..."
The bald monk interjected, "Then you need to pass rigorous criteria. Don't worry; they don't require Japanese language proficiency. But it's a challenging journey."
Sallie concluded decisively, "Well, I may not take the easy Japanese way to get to those elite schools in all of Japan. If that's the case, then fine, I will take the hard way. So what's the rigorous criteria...?"
Kokonoe laid out the criteria for Sallie, "In that case, you must meet any of these criteria. Number one is Exceptional magic abilities. This school is renowned for its rigorous magical education, so non-Japanese citizens need noticeable talent and aptitude in magic to be considered for admission."
"Number Two Recommendation from a prestigious magic school. Non-Japanese citizens who have attended a reputable magical institution or have been recognized for their magical achievements in their home country may receive a recommendation for admission."
"And finally number three Strong magical lineage. The series places significant emphasis on magical bloodlines and hereditary abilities. Non-Japanese citizens with renowned magical lineage or significant magical potential may have a higher chance of being considered for admission."
"It's important to note that the exact criteria and selection process for non-Japanese citizens may vary. If you meet any of these three, you're good to go."
Sallie confidently explained, "I may meet two of these criteria. I do have magic abilities, thanks to my briefcase. As a non-Japanese citizen, I can showcase something that requires a c.a.d. For instance, if I want to produce something out of the briefcase, like a million dollars, I could channel my energy. The ancient symbol on the briefcase does the job itself. In a few seconds, you can open it and see if you can find."
Sallie dramatically revealed the interior of his briefcase, unveiling its contents with a theatrical flourish. The monk, intrigued, witnessed the presence of a revolver-shaped c.a.d. within the briefcase, but Sallie swiftly closed it, emphasizing, "You can look, but you can't touch."
Sallie, with closed eyes, harnessed his magical energy, summoning a vibrant green light and encircling the briefcase with an ancient, spinning knot-like symbol. The briefcase emitted flashes of green and white lights, accompanied by the illusion of banging doors. When Sallie opened it once more, a considerable amount of yen had magically materialized inside.
Kokonoe asserted, "Then you're practically good to go indeed, my friend." He lifted his finger, adding, "But there is a key requirement to gain access to the entrance exams, and that's it. You have yet to prepare for the entrance exams as you either take course 1 or course 2 to be exact."
Curious, Sallie inquired, "What is it?"
The monk asked directly, "You do have a magic license, right?"
Sallie, confused, responded, "Yeah, I know that. Why do you ask?"
"Because it's not just about the law of magical practices; it's the number one requirement to get to the entrance exams. As a non-Japanese citizen like yourself, you may need one unless you want to deal with the hassle of obtaining Japanese citizenship," Kokonoe explained.
Sallie theatrically emptied his pockets, unveiling a meticulously crafted card resembling an ID, adorned with intricate magical institution detailing—an unmistakable symbol of his possession of a magic license.
Kokonoe, examining Sallie's license up close, exclaimed, "Oh my, this is... yes! That could be it. And it was officially renewed too." He had initial concerns about its validity, but upon closer inspection, relief washed over him as it turned out to be brand new.
"With that, you've paved a new path to the truth," Kokonoe handed Sallie's license back. Extending a handshake, he signaled that Sallie had gained access to crucial information. Sallie accepted the gesture, understanding the implication. "In other words, I suggest you go there and retrieve the information you need."
Sallie accepted the handshake, expressing gratitude.
Kokonoe reflected, "Yeah, I not only saved you from that hotel incident involving a mysterious criminal organization, but also because I informed you about that school."
Kokonoe added, "You, my friend, can thank me by providing crucial information about the mysterious criminal organization that's after you."
Sallie nodded, saying, "Alright, then. I will consider it."
Kokonoe's expression turned serious. "And if you find something or hear vital intel that adds to the truth, gather it discreetly. It could be dangerous if anyone discovers you've been eavesdropping without their consent. Understand? Tell me everything you know, and we'll assist the authorities in taking down those criminals without them realizing it."
Sallie bowed deeply, a sincere expression of gratitude etched on his face. "Your warning is invaluable. It seems like finding shelter is within reach now."
Kokonoe's gaze hardened as he stressed the importance of secrecy, "Starting immediately, as you step into that school, remember this: You uncover any information, you share it with me, discreetly. It's crucial for our strategy against these criminals."