Blue Archive: Sparda-Sensei's Chronicle

by Arcreed

The Legendary Dark Knight, Sparda. He was many things: a peerless swordsman, a saviour of mankind, a traitor to demons. What many of the don't know however, was that he was also a capable teacher. Now, his skill as a teacher is needed once again in Kivotos. But, with the city being filled with rambunctious and trigger-happy students, just what kind of teacher he needs to be?

6. Volume 1 Chapter 1 (II)

-Volume 1 Chapter 1 (II)

o-0-o

Awash in the morning's tender embrace, the cityscape transformed into a dazzling spectacle, casting playful shadows across the shopping district's lively mosaic. In the midst of this urban carnival, Onikata Kayoko strutted forth with a nonchalant swagger, her every step a carefully measured beat in the rhythm of the bustling streets. She carried an aura of indifference, shrouded in a mysterious allure that clung to her like a clandestine secret whispered through the wind.

Her gaze, sharp as a razor and undistracted, exuded an almost unbearable intensity, crafting an enchanting aura that lured onlookers like moths to a mesmerizing flame. However, locking eyes with her triggered an instinctual fear, prompting people to sidestep and treat her like a live grenade teetering on the brink of detonation.

As Kayoko effortlessly wove through the crowd, she pressed ahead, seemingly impervious to the prying glances of the curious. A visual cacophony of contradictions, her appearance unfurled like a whimsically painted canvas—snowy white locks flowing into a ponytail that pirouetted with the breeze, a stark contrast to the jet-black bangs; alabaster skin forming a canvas for the intense crimson hue of her eyes; and a beguiling mole adding a pinch of mystique to the symphony of her features.

Draped in a midnight-hued hoodie boldly declaring " .Kill," she glided beneath this ominous cloak with the effortless grace of a seasoned wanderer. A cocoa-colored T-shirt, a pleated plaid red skirt, and chic black sneakers embellished with striking scarlet accents completed her arresting ensemble. A jet-black bag, adorned with crisp white seams, discreetly cradled a holster for her firearm, hanging nonchalantly from her right shoulder.

Despite the formidable facade, Kayoko's intentions were far from malevolent—her mission, a simple pilgrimage to a music store nestled in the heart of the bustling mall, all in the pursuit of checking out the latest release from her cherished favorite band.

As she entered the mall, her crimson eyes locked onto the music store perched proudly on the second floor. Little did she know, her innocent intentions were about to be spectacularly misinterpreted, triggering shock and trepidation in those unlucky enough to be in her orbit.

With a well-practiced sigh, Kayoko bore the burden of countless eyes scrutinizing her—shop owners, nosy shoppers, and everyone in between. To her, this rhythmic dance of misunderstandings defined her existence—a constant magnet for fear and suspicion, despite the glaring absence of any malicious intent. Life, it seemed, had a penchant for playing a discordant tune around her.

Yanking her hoodie over her head to shield herself from the relentless stares, Kayoko quickened her pace toward the elevator, unwavering in her quest to reach the second-floor music store and relish her hard-earned day off. Alas, fate had a mischievous hand to play.

Weaving through the bustling throng, an unforeseen collision with a bipedal cat threw a curveball into her carefully planned day. "Oh, my apologies! Are you alri..." the cat's voice trailed off as his gaze met Kayoko's, his feline features contorting in visible terror. With fur standing on end, eyes widened to comical proportions, and perspiration pouring, he found himself momentarily frozen in a tableau of absurdity.

In that fleeting moment, Kayoko swiftly appraised the unfolding scene, predicting the imminent absurdity that was about to ensue. The cat, now gripped by overwhelming fear, dramatically dropped to his knees, his voice quivering in a pitiful plea for mercy. "Hii! I'm so sorry; please don't hurt me!" he whimpered, his form bowing down in desperate supplication.

Trying to diffuse the tension, Kayoko began, "N-no, please don—" but her attempts were futile, drowned out by the collective murmurs and gasps that rippled through the surrounding crowd like a wave of shared disbelief.

"Whoa, what's that all about?"

"Check out that girl. Is she forcing him to kneel intentionally?"

"This is sending shivers down my spine. Making someone kneel in public? That's some real villain stuff."

"That expression... she's practically a supervillain!"

"Hey, quickly, call the Valkyrie's Public Safety Bureau! We've got a troublemaker tormenting an innocent soul here!"

The mere mention of the Valkyrie's Public Safety Bureau induced a throbbing headache in Kayoko. She was acutely aware that attempting to articulate her innocence to those officials would be about as fruitful as engaging in a conversation with a brick wall.

Cursing her predicament—well, not precisely her luck, but more the unfortunate combination of her appearance and the situation—she had no option but to execute a swift retreat before the authorities swooped in. Another day gone astray due to an astronomical misunderstanding, her footsteps echoed through the bustling streets, leaving behind an urban ballet of elongated shadows, now painted with the unexpected hues of a peculiar escapade.

o-0-o

Gasping for breath, Kayoko's lungs heaved in tandem with the rhythmic intensity of a marathon runner hurtling toward the triumphant crescendo of a race. Seeking refuge behind a weathered dumpster, her eyes couldn't help but linger on the dumpster's battle-scarred facade—a testament to the ceaseless march of time and a stoic witness to the pandemonium she had inadvertently set in motion.

Her frantic escape from the bustling mall thrust her into the dusty outskirts of the shopping district, where the air hung thick with palpable tension—a tangible force that could be sliced through with the finesse of a spork. Her heart thumped in her ears, an electric heavy metal drum solo underscoring the gravity of her predicament.

Crouched behind the dumpster, Kayoko surreptitiously observed figures clad in the unmistakable uniform of the Safety Bureau closing in on the spot she had skillfully vacated. Their determined strides reverberated through the urban expanse, akin to synchronized swimmers gracefully navigating a vast, concrete sea—a captivating spectacle that sent a delicious shiver down her spine.

In the midst of these ominous circumstances, Kayoko couldn't help but find a sliver of amusement in the notorious tardiness of the Safety Bureau. This slight delay gifted her a seamless getaway from their pursuit. If it had been Hina's Prefect Team on her tail, detention would likely be her current fate. Lady Luck had cast a sly grin her way, placing the shopping district just beyond the iron grip of Gehenna's jurisdiction.

Lounging against the gritty pavement in a disheveled heap, Kayoko grumbled with a tone wavering between frustration and begrudging acceptance, "Well, it is what it is." Her voice, a symphony of annoyance and reluctant acknowledgment, resonated with resignation as she grappled with the reality that her quest for the new album had careened off the tracks like a runaway locomotive.

Taking a moment to gather her thoughts, she contemplated the dwindling options before her. Should she execute a strategic retreat to the office? Despite her boss graciously bestowing a day off ahead of the impending mission, the notion of squandering her precious day within the confines of office walls felt as enticing as a sandwich made of cardboard. Conversely, the idea of finding sanctuary in a serene park held its own allure—a refuge where she could temporarily elude her pursuers and lose herself in the embrace of her cherished music collection.

"Alright," Kayoko resolved. She would zero in on a concealed park just outside Trinity's jurisdiction. As a Gehenna student, infiltrating Trinity presented a formidable challenge, but skirting its periphery should avert undue scrutiny—unless, of course, she unwittingly caught the discerning gaze of the Justice Task Force. She highly doubted those Valkyrie students harbored the sagacity to anticipate that a Gehenna student would opt to lie low in the vicinity of Trinity, of all places.

To ensure the seamless execution of her strategy, Kayoko recognized the paramount importance of discretion. Dodging the keen scrutiny of Valkyrie students stood as the linchpin of her success. Maintaining a low profile and keenly assessing the unfolding events seemed to be the most sagacious course of action—a skill she had unwittingly honed through her experiences as a member of Problem Solvers 68.

As her tentative plan solidified in her mind, Kayoko bolstered herself and cautiously emerged from her covert refuge. She rounded the corner with the stealth of a clandestine operative, her senses heightened and on high alert, only to collide with another unsuspecting individual. At this juncture, she couldn't shake the sensation that the universe was orchestrating a cosmic prank. What were the odds of bumping into so many strangers in a single day?

Anticipating a rough tumble, Kayoko reluctantly closed her eyes, preparing for impact. However, just before making contact with the pavement, a sturdy arm swooped around her waist, sparing her from an ignominious meeting with the ground. Her heart raced as her face found refuge against the stranger's chest, cradled in the comforting warmth of his strong arm.

"Are you okay?" a concerned voice inquired, and Kayoko discerned that the stranger was undoubtedly a man, though her limited vision left a small margin for doubt.

"I'm fine," Kayoko replied, her voice slightly muffled by their unintentional proximity, her curiosity piqued. To her surprise, the man proved gracious, releasing her from his embrace without delay.

Regaining her composure, Kayoko found herself caught in a dance of embarrassment and intrigue, her heart still pulsating to the rhythm of the unexpected encounter. As her gaze settled on the man she had unintentionally collided with, it felt as though time itself had chosen to momentarily stand still.

Before her stood a living embodiment of elegance, his sleek, slicked-back white hair exuding an air of refined sophistication. Draped in a pristine white jacket adorned with the SCHALE logo on the chest pocket and a luxurious deep purple formal shirt beneath, paired with impeccably tailored black formal pants, his ensemble only served to heighten the allure of his striking presence. Those captivating, piercing blue eyes completed the magnetic image before her.

A surge of recognition coursed through Kayoko as she deciphered the man's true identity. Though his attire deviated from what she had seen in videos, there was no mistaking him.

"Are you truly okay?" the man inquired, gracefully bending down to meet Kayoko at eye level. His towering height, which videos couldn't quite convey, became apparent as there was a difference of at least twenty centimeters between them.

"I'm fine, Sparda-Sensei," she finally addressed him, employing the honorific to acknowledge his role as a teacher. Sparda-Sensei scrutinized her, visibly relieved when she assured him.

"Thank goodness. I'd never forgive myself if I accidentally hurt you," Sparda-Sensei admitted, his concern palpable in his voice.

"I was the one who—" Kayoko began to explain that the collision was her fault, but her words got stuck. Sparda-Sensei looked at her with curiosity, prompting her to attempt an apology again. However, before she could speak, he leaned in, his bright blue eyes probing.

"Wait a moment. How do you know my name?" he asked, leaving Kayoko with a puzzled expression.

Kayoko couldn't believe it—was he kidding, or genuinely unaware of his own fame? She cleared her throat to explain.

"Sensei, the incident from yesterday went viral on social media. Your name and details about SCHALE have spread all over the internet," Kayoko explained, emphasizing his sudden fame.

"Social media? Internet?" He looked utterly bewildered, as if the words she used were from a foreign language dictionary.

Kayoko revised her assumption; he wasn't just unaware; he seemed completely unfamiliar with the digital age.

What was he? A caveman lost in the modern world? The disparity between Sparda-Sensei's sophisticated appearance and his lack of awareness about the virtual realm baffled Kayoko.

Kayoko's head throbbed with the daunting prospect of explaining the intricacies of social media and the internet to someone utterly unfamiliar with these concepts. It felt like trying to impart complex calculus to a squirrel—a task bordering on the absurd. These digital landscapes had been ingrained in her life for as long as she could recall, and encountering someone so out of touch with modernity was a puzzle beyond her comprehension.

Thankfully, Sparda-Sensei seemed disinterested in probing further into the matter. Engrossed in the tablet held in his left hand, an expression of clear exasperation etched across his features, he appeared to be preoccupied with something on the device. What had he witnessed that elicited such a reaction? Rubbing his eyes wearily, he began to stroll away from Kayoko.

"It's been really nice meeting you," Sparda-Sensei graciously stated, his polite tone evident. Pausing, he expressed genuine regret. "Unfortunately, I have something urgent to deal with, so perhaps we could continue our conversation another time?"

Kayoko remained silent, contemplating the implications of his request. During her reflective pause, her eyes landed on a fallen cake that had spilled from its bag onto the unforgiving pavement.

"That's—" Kayoko stuttered, pointing at the fallen cake, prompting Sparda-Sensei to turn his gaze toward the scene.

He responded with a hint of amusement. "Oh, this?" he replied, glancing at the cake with a wry smile. "Well, it was an inevitable consequence. I only have two hands, and one was busy holding my cherished tablet. So, I had to choose between preserving the bag's contents or preventing an unfortunate accident for a precious student of mine. I went for the latter, as you can see," Sparda-Sensei explained, his tone surprisingly playful.

Seeing the ruined cake and contemplating the potential cost due to her collision with Sparda-Sensei, Kayoko felt a pang of guilt. "I'm sorry," she said, remorse tingling in her voice.

"For what?" Sparda-Sensei asked, genuinely puzzled.

Surprised by his response, Kayoko clarified, "You... the cake. If I hadn't bumped into you, you wouldn't have dropped it."

A knowing smile touched Sparda-Sensei's lips, and he shook his head. "My dear, consider it a small sacrifice for a much more valuable cause. Cakes can be replaced; the well-being of my students is irreplaceable. No need for apologies," Sparda-Sensei said.

With that, Sparda-Sensei started to walk away once again. However, spurred by a sudden impulse, Kayoko reached out and caught his sleeve.

"Sensei," she called out, freezing him in his tracks, a sense of urgency and curiosity crackling in the air between them. Sparda-Sensei turned back to face her, his arched eyebrow expressing his surprise at her unexpected call.

"Yes?"

"Is there anything I can do to make it up to you?" Kayoko asked earnestly, her eyes shining with a mixture of determination and sincerity. "How about I reimburse you for the cake? That way, we'll be square." Despite the constant misjudgment due to her appearance, those who knew her understood that Kayoko had an unexpected depth of responsibility beneath her exterior.

While her proposal might disrupt her carefully crafted plan of avoiding the Safety Bureau's attention, Kayoko couldn't rest easy without taking some responsibility for her blunder.

Sparda-Sensei's initial surprise gave way to a bemused twinkle in his eyes. "Why are you making such a fuss about it?" he asked, a warm smile gracing his lips. "Your well-being after the incident is enough to make amends, young lady. You don't need to feel obligated to compensate me for a small cake mishap," he reassured her.

In a nearly inaudible voice, Sparda-Sensei muttered as he glanced to the side, "Besides, Rin was paying for that, so it's not as though it came out of my own pocket."

Kayoko narrowed her eyes, a hint of displeasure in her expression. She didn't take kindly to being dismissed or perceived as incapable. It felt like Sparda-Sensei was treating her as though she were a child. Whether it was out of kindness or a measure of self-assuredness, she bristled at the notion of being handled as if she lacked independence.

Although her appearance often attracted trouble, it also endowed her with a sense of resilience and independence that she held dear.

"I insist. It would bother me if I didn't at least reimburse you for the cake," Kayoko stated, positioning herself in front of Sparda-Sensei, effectively becoming an immovable roadblock in his path. Her unwavering resolve blazed in her resolute gaze.

Their eyes locked, and neither was willing to back down. It was a standoff, a clash of determination, and neither Kayoko nor Sparda-Sensei showed any sign of yielding. Suddenly, Sparda-Sensei pinched the bridge of his nose and let out a sigh, a hint of exasperation tugging at the corners of his lips.

"...What's your name?" he asked, his voice tinged with curiosity.

"Kayoko. Onikata Kayoko," she replied, her eyes locked onto his, unwavering.

"Kayoko, huh? A lovely name fitting for someone as lovely as you," Sparda-Sensei commented, his tone carrying a touch of charm.

Kayoko met Sparda-Sensei's compliment with a skeptical look. "Are you trying to be funny?"

"I promise you, I was completely sincere," he replied with a hint of a smile, his gaze steady. "Nonetheless, you're quite persistent, aren't you?" Sparda-Sensei added, a quirk of curiosity in his tone. Whether he meant it as a compliment or a criticism was a puzzle Kayoko couldn't quite decipher.

Suddenly, Sparda-Sensei released his sleeve from Kayoko's grasp and did something unexpected. He started to pat her head and ruffle her hair, a gesture that felt entirely unfamiliar to her. While her boss and Mutsuki had occasionally patted her head, Sparda-Sensei's touch had a different quality – firm yet warm and gentle at the same time.

"Then… I'll indulge my own desire as well," Sparda-Sensei said, bowing to her insistence. "Can I ask for your help in picking a gift? The one I chose earlier was quite arbitrary, and your opinion would be invaluable."

"A gift?" Kayoko inquired, genuinely intrigued.

Sparda-Sensei nodded. "I originally planned to visit Millennium this morning, but circumstances took an unexpected turn, and now I have to present a gift to a student there."

Understanding dawned upon Kayoko, and she asked further, "Did you perhaps do something wrong to that student?"

Sparda-Sensei's attention momentarily shifted to the tablet in his left hand as he trailed off, considering the situation. "I wouldn't exactly say that 'I' made a mistake," he began, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Nonetheless, there seems to be a misunderstanding that requires clarification. To ease the situation, I thought of offering a gift. I had considered a cake, but as a fellow student, your insight might be more valuable."

"Fair point," Kayoko conceded with a nod. "May I know the name of this Millennium student? If I happen to know her, I might assist better in selecting an appropriate gift."

"Her name is Hayase Yuuka."

The name struck a chord within Kayoko.

"Sorry, Sensei. It's better if you give up," Kayoko advised, her voice filled with genuine concern.

Sparda-Sensei seemed surprised by her quick response. "What happened to helping me pick a gift?"

Kayoko felt compelled to explain her stance. "Sensei, she's the infamous treasurer of Millennium," Kayoko began, her tone gravely serious. "Even in Gehenna, we've heard about her and how difficult she is to please. She would unhesitatingly slash a club's budget if it fell short of her standards, and I've heard that clubs had to pay with blood and tears for weeks and still struggled to regain even a fraction of that lost budget," she detailed, recalling the rumors about Hayase Yuuka that had circulated in Gehenna.

"Really?" Sparda-Sensei arched an eyebrow, his expression etched with skepticism, a hint of doubt flickering in his eyes. "Yuuka doesn't strike me as someone like that. She seemed less... extreme than how you described her," Sensei remarked, pausing for a moment before continuing, "Although... I'll admit I haven't had the chance to get to know her for very long, so I don't think I have the full picture," Sensei confessed with a nonchalant shrug, acknowledging the gaps in his understanding of Yuuka.

Kayoko mulled over his words, briefly reflecting on her limited encounters with Hayase Yuuka. To be honest, she had never engaged in a conversation with her. She'd merely crossed paths with Yuuka a few times during missions with the Problem Solvers, and those encounters had been brief and uneventful, certainly not providing her with any substantial insights into Yuuka's personality.

Still, rumors existed for a reason, and while their accuracy remained uncertain, they at least painted a picture of the kind of person Hayase Yuuka was rumored to be.

"I don't know what you've done to her, but I don't think a mere cake would be enough to smooth things over," Kayoko asserted solemnly, her voice carrying a weight that spoke to the depth of her convictions.

Despite her lack of direct interaction with Yuuka, she had heard enough to realize that Yuuka's disposition wasn't likely to be swayed by simple gestures. The weight of those rumors and the formidable reputation that preceded Yuuka suggested a character far more complex than one that could be appeased by a humble peace offering.

Sparda-Sensei regarded Kayoko thoughtfully, pondering her words deeply. He seemed to acknowledge that his initial solution might have been too simplistic, realizing that a mere cake might not suffice to assuage the situation.

"Thank you for your honesty, Kayoko," Sparda-Sensei replied appreciatively, indicating that he valued her insights. "I may need to reconsider my approach. If Yuuka is as formidable as you say, perhaps a more thoughtful and meaningful gesture is in order."

Kayoko nodded, relieved that her advice had been taken seriously. She really wanted to avoid seeing Sparda-Sensei making a misstep that could further jeopardize his standing with the treasurer of Millennium.

Sparda-Sensei stowed away his tablet and turned his attention fully to Kayoko. "You mentioned you've heard rumors about her. Can you shed more light on her interests, hobbies, or anything that might give me an idea of what kind of gift she'd appreciate?"

Regrettably, Kayoko had no concrete answers to offer. "I'm sorry, Sensei, but the rumors about her mostly relate to her reputation and dealings with clubs and budgets. I haven't found any specific details about her interests or hobbies."

"I see," Sparda-Sensei said, contemplative. "Well, it seems we're facing a bit of a challenge in selecting the perfect gift for Yuuka. In that case, we might need to take a different approach."

Kayoko leaned in and inquired about his plan. "What do you have in mind, Sensei?"

Sparda-Sensei smiled and leaned closer, speaking in a hushed tone as if sharing a secret. "How about we conduct a bit of discreet reconnaissance? We'll find a way to learn more about her interests without being too intrusive."

"And how are we going to do that?" Kayoko asked, her curiosity piqued.

"We knock on Millennium's doors and find students who know Yuuka best," was the straightforward reply from Sparda-Sensei.

A few moments passed, and Kayoko, awaiting a more elaborate plan, realized that this was the crux of it. "You're serious," she remarked blandly, not entirely impressed by the simplicity of the plan, eliciting a chuckle from Sparda-Sensei, which mildly irked her.

"Sometimes, Kayoko, the best way to gather information is by talking to people directly," Sparda-Sensei explained, his tone patient. "We'll start by reaching out to students who have interacted with Yuuka and see if they can provide us with insights into her interests and preferences. It's a subtle and non-intrusive approach that could yield the most accurate information."

Kayoko, though initially uncertain, started to see the sense in Sparda-Sensei's plan. She nodded in agreement, realizing that finding the right gift needed a more personal touch. "Okay, Sensei, I guess that could work. Let's give it a shot and see what we can find."

Sparda-Sensei acknowledged her with a grateful nod before adding, "Oh, there's one more thing. It's tough to admit, but I'm not entirely sure how to find Millennium. Sora gave me some pointers to get here, but I'm pretty clueless about the path to Millennium."

Kayoko sighed inwardly. Couldn't he simply open his phone and check the map? But then again, it was entirely probable he might not even be aware that this was an option, especially since he wasn't even familiar with the internet.

"Don't worry, Sensei, I've got your back. Just stay close, and if, by some miracle, we get separated, don't be shy about shouting for me," Kayoko assured him. She silently vowed to keep an eye out for Sparda-Sensei as she readied herself to lead the way to Millennium.

o-0-o

Sparda-Sensei's voice cut through the air behind her, throwing out a sudden question that hung there like a dare. "Kayoko," he started, his tone a mix of curiosity and a dash of impatience, "why aren't we hopping on the train? Wouldn't it cut our travel time to Millennium? Or is the train just not rolling in that direction?" His words, a concoction of inquisitiveness and contemplation, reverberated in the crisp air, lingering like an unspoken challenge.

Their journey towards Millennium had commenced just shy of an hour ago, during which Kayoko had executed a series of deft maneuvers, eluding the vigilant gaze of the Safety Bureau, all without Sparda-Sensei appearing to catch on. While public transportation seemed like the expedient choice, to Kayoko, it felt akin to rolling the dice—a gamble she was not willing to take.

"It's..." Kayoko hesitated, her words hanging in the air like a tightrope, teetering between revealing the truth and shrouding it in secrecy. Although the urge to confide in Sparda-Sensei about her predicament weighed heavily on her, past experiences cautioned against expecting instant understanding from him, injecting a momentary pause into her response.

"It's complicated, Sensei," she replied, enveloping her words in a cloud of vagueness. She deftly sidestepped the details, unwilling to subject herself to scrutiny.

Detecting the dodge in her response, Sparda-Sensei pressed on, his sharp intuition cutting through the obfuscation. "Does this have something to do with those students in white uniforms? Valkyrie Public Safety Bureau, right?"

Tensions gripped Kayoko's shoulders. Had he uncovered her artful evasion of Valkyrie hotspots? She maintained a stoic silence, strategically refusing to confirm or deny his speculation.

"I nailed it, didn't I? You were dodging those students, weren't you?" Sparda-Sensei declared, leaving Kayoko to opt for silence, watching as he scratched his head before seemingly sighing in acknowledgment of her unspoken admission.

"Alright, stay put. I'll be back shortly," Sparda-Sensei announced, bolting toward a row of stores before Kayoko could utter a protest. The guy was quick—undeniably so. If it came down to a speed contest, he held the upper hand.

Now standing alone, Kayoko pondered her next move. Sensei promised a swift return, but the definition of 'swift' remained elusive. At the very least, she couldn't linger in the open, risking an encounter with the Safety Bureau.

Surveying the area, Kayoko's eyes fell upon a bench under a tree. She hustled toward it, seeking solace in the cool shade that offered respite from the scorching sun. The leaves rustled gently in the breeze, creating a soothing ambiance.

Seated on the bench, Kayoko replayed recent events in her mind. Sparda-Sensei had stumbled upon her secret, and the mention of the Valkyrie Public Safety Bureau added to her unease. She wondered how much he truly knew and what his next move would be.

While awaiting Sparda-Sensei's return, Kayoko took a deep breath to steady her nerves. The bench provided a momentary reprieve, allowing her to reflect on the intricate web of her predicament.

Her concentration shattered when she heard a soft meowing nearby. The gentle sounds drew her attention away from her thoughts. Turning her head, she spotted a small kitten nestled in the bushes near the bench. Its fur displayed a mix of gray and white, and its big, curious eyes peered at her with a blend of caution and interest.

A warm smile unconsciously spread across Kayoko's face as she silently approached the kitten. Scooping it up, the small furball purred in response to her gentle touch, seeming content in her arms. Kayoko couldn't help but be captivated by the vulnerability of the tiny creature.

Cradling the kitten, she continued to speak to it in a soothing voice, "What are you doing here all alone? Where's your mom? Are you lost?" The kitten responded with soft purrs, seemingly comforted by her presence.

Kayoko's smile blossomed into a radiant expression of pure delight as she tenderly caressed the kitten's velvety belly. The playful furball responded with exuberant stretches, thoroughly reveling in the warmth of her affection. Delicate paws danced in the air, and it nestled even closer into the cradle of Kayoko's arms.

Unbeknownst to her, as Kayoko blissfully played with the kitten, Sparda-Sensei was about to face a serious pain-in-the neck problem that would drag her deep into a troublesome situation.

o-0-o

Leisurely strolling down the bustling shopping street, Sparda found himself ensconced in a vibrant tapestry of storefronts, each parading an alluring collection of garments and accessories. The unfolding spectacle of Kivotos proved to be an extraordinary revelation, even for someone as ancient and seasoned as Sparda.

Yesterday's fleeting glimpse of the city paled in comparison to today's close encounter, exposing Kivotos as an unparalleled mosaic of diversity—teeming with bipedal creatures, robots, and students engaged in nonchalant banter, all while brandishing an impressive arsenal of firearms and explosives. Sparda marveled at the city's uniqueness, grappling with the idea that there might not exist another place quite like it.

"Quite the ordinary city," Sparda mused to himself, his deep voice echoing through the eclectic streets.

Until a few hours earlier, he was still harboring doubts about the reality of his surroundings. Yet, a daring sip from the 'Super Spicy: Dare to Drink?' can, procured from the eccentric 'Angel 24' convenience store on the ground floor of SCHALE's tower, and subsequent stomach cramps confirmed the authenticity of his surreal experience in Kivotos.

Reflecting on the convenience store's closure the previous day, Sparda's suspicions intensified as he descended and locked eyes with a student named Sora behind the cashier.

Sora, the youthful guardian of the cash register, swiftly sensed Sparda's skepticism and introduced herself. Enlisted by the General Student Council to oversee Angel 24 some time ago, she had just commenced her duties amidst the chaos ensuing from the president's mysterious disappearance.

With the council focusing on the city's cleanup, Sora found herself as the lone employee managing the store, and Sparda, as her first customer—a situation Sparda would deem unfortunate if he were in her shoes.

Intrigued by the decision to entrust a middle school student with store management, Sparda couldn't help but question the General Student Council president's thought process. He envisioned her as potentially irresponsible, making decisions on whims.

However, Sora remained undaunted by her position, aspiring to ascend the ranks of the General Student Council in the future. Her inherent kindness radiated as she suggested acquiring a cake to pacify Yuuka, offering guidance on the most delectable options and where to find them.

On a side note, the seemingly ruined cake that Sparda had casually dismissed as inconsequential to Kayoko was actually a rare, limited-edition delicacy. Its purchase could command a small fortune, and while Sparda had some funds on hand, it fell woefully short of covering the cake's cost.

Cleverly, Sparda persuaded the shopkeeper to transfer the charge to Nanagami Rin of the General Student Council, leaving a sly smile on his face as the financial burden shifted to another's account.

What happened next? His phone vibrated with a call from Rin-chan.

A foreboding sense whispered to him, cautioning that answering this call might unleash a storm unlike any other. Drawing on the wisdom acquired from millennia of existence, Sparda, with a silent nod to discretion, returned his phone to his pocket. Some battles, he knew, were wiser to avoid than to confront.

A slight unease settled over him as he pondered the lack of remuneration since taking on the role of a teacher. Sparda couldn't help but wonder why the president hadn't left him with a personal fund, especially after thrusting him into this role without much consent.

Luckily, he still had enough money on hand to sustain him until the end of the month. After paying for the super-spicy drink he acquired from Angel 24, he found himself questioning why Kivotos shared currency with a far-eastern island nation in the Human World.

Upon probing Arona, she admitted being in the dark about the currency's origin, only aware that it had been in use for as long as the city had stood.

However, he learned from Arona that the president had thoughtfully arranged for his salary to be automatically deposited at the beginning of each month. Sparda also discovered the existence of a bank account under his name, showcasing a conspicuous balance of zero.

Not that he was prying, but he did venture to inquire about the salary amount from Arona—he needed the information to finesse his financial planning.

He harbored no curiosity about the possibility of being underpaid. None whatsoever.

"It was sufficient, Sensei," Arona cryptically replied, evading direct eye contact.

"Sufficient for what?" Sparda pondered but decided to restrain his curiosity. He figured he'd find out the specifics when the funds materialized in his account.

Concerning SCHALE's finances, the president had ostensibly allocated a significant sum for its operations, surpassing the budget of any other club in Kivotos. Nevertheless, diverting these funds for endeavors beyond the club's specified scope posed an entirely different set of challenges.

"It explicitly states here that using SCHALE's funds for anything other than club activities requires the explicit approval of Nanagami Rin."

The stipulation resonated ominously, and Sparda found himself cursing his decision not to answer Rin's call earlier. Now, he faced the formidable task of appeasing Rin's undoubtedly simmering anger—particularly after avoiding her call—if he harbored any hope of accessing those funds.

The president's choice to mandate Rin's approval over that of the General Student Council left Sparda bewildered. The rationale behind this decision eluded him.

Well, he could mull over it when the time was right. For now, his attention needed to shift to procuring a disguise for Kayoko. While he remained in the dark about why she avoided those Valkyrie students, he saw no reason to exacerbate the situation. She had shown kindness to him, and he reserved judgment until he had a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances.

Contemplating what to purchase, Sparda's attention was caught by the prevalence of students donning animal-themed costumes. Was there an ongoing festival? His curiosity sparked, prompting him to turn to Arona with an inquisitive expression.

"Arona, what's the story behind those animal costumes, particularly the ducks? They seem to be everywhere."

Arona grinned, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Those are Peroro, Sensei."

"Peroro?" Sparda echoed, captivated by the intriguing name.

"Momo Friends! They've become a sensation among students since they first launched! The characters, from official merchandise to fan creations, have gained immense popularity. Rumor has it there's an announcement about the renewal of their anime today!" Arona bubbled with excitement.

"Hmm..." Sparda continued observing the sea of students adorned in Momo Friends costumes and hats. It dawned on him.

"That's it."

"Sensei?"

"Let's get Kayoko one of those costumes or hats. It'll make it tricky for the Valkyrie to identify her," Sparda suggested.

Arona's reaction caught him off guard. She hummed thoughtfully, her expression conflicted. "Sensei, that girl, Kayoko-san... it seems like the Valkyrie is after her. Are you sure it's wise to associate yourself with her?" Worry etched on Arona's face.

"What are you talking about, Arona? She hasn't caused us any trouble so far, has she?" Sparda remarked. "Plus, her insights were quite valuable, and call it a hunch, but she might be more capable than she's letting on. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't curious to see what else she has in store."

"Hmmm... but if something goes wrong..."

"We'll handle it when the time comes."

"Sensei, are you sure you should be taking this lightly?"

Sparda chuckled. "I have you by my side; that's why I can afford to be more relaxed."

"Eh? Ehe. Ehehehe~. Is that so? Well then, Arona-chan has to work even harder to meet your expectations, Sensei."

Sparda couldn't help but chuckle once more. While he valued Arona's enthusiasm, he wanted to ensure she didn't push it too far. Having her around wasn't just about utility; he genuinely enjoyed having someone to converse with. Conversations and travels were luxuries he rarely indulged in his past daily life, especially with demons constantly targeting him. Unspoken but deeply appreciated, he found the atmosphere of Kivotos surprisingly enjoyable.

His attention was caught by a store with a Peroro animatronic stationed outside. Curiosity piqued, he decided to step inside. The moment he entered, several students inside cast intrigued glances his way.

"Excuse me, may I ask for your help?" Sparda reached out to the sparrow(?) behind the counter.

"Of cour–chiiiiiiirp!" the sparrow proprietress(?) emitted a long and resonant chirping noise. Did he unknowingly exude an intimidating aura, or was there something on his face?

"S-S-S-S-S-!"

"I'm sorry. It seems my presence has caused you great distress. I will take my leave now," Sparda apologized gracefully.

"N-no-no! Please, stay! I didn't mean any disrespect! I was simply overwhelmed! I never thought the Sensei from SCHALE would visit this store!" the sparrow proprietress exclaimed.

"I…see? I don't quite understand why you would feel that way, but I'm honored nevertheless."

"You're remarkably humble, Sensei. After the feat you showed yesterday, you've become a hot topic of conversation among the students. Even I, who don't typically keep up with media trends, couldn't help but be curious enough to check it. While I know a girl who could handle a tank by herself, that was the first time I've seen it sliced apart like that. I must say, Kivotos never fails to surprise me!"

"That–" Sparda intended to inquire about how she knew of yesterday's events, but he recalled Kayoko's words about the incident going viral on social media. He needed to acclimate himself to Kivotos swiftly.

Then, the sparrow proprietress playfully remarked, "Oh, what I would pay to see it in real life. What you did was unheard of! How exactly did you do it, Sensei?"

Sparda chuckled, the sound carrying a light-heartedness that hinted at a touch of mystery. "It's a trade secret, my lady. But if you're expecting a full recreation of yesterday's feat, well, that might take a while. It's not as if a tank would just come waltzing across the stree..." Sparda's words trailed off, his sentence left hanging as an utterly unbelievable sight materialized before his eyes

On the road just outside the store, a tank stood inconspicuously as if patiently waiting for the traffic light to turn green.

"Oh, my! Is that Gehenna's Pandemonium Society's tank? Perhaps Iroha-chan and Ibuki-chan are at the helm," the sparrow proprietress exclaimed. "But, why would they be here? Unless... I get it. Ibuki-chan wants to attend the Momo Friends' stage performance, doesn't she?" Her eyes sparkled with a realization as she connected the dots, unveiling a possible reason for the unexpected tank presence.

Gehenna. Wasn't that one of the big three schools Rin mentioned? So, the tank belonged to Gehenna? Design-wise, it looked different from the one he faced yesterday.

No. Wait. That wasn't the point he should be focusing on.

"Dear lady, is it common for students to drive tanks around here?" Sparda inquired, his tone carefully neutral, though inwardly, he battled the urge to sound incredulous. While he had gleaned from yesterday's incident that students in this peculiar city were somehow allowed to drive tanks, the sight of another one on the street immediately after the recent incident left him more surprised than he could adequately express.

"Well, as long as you have the license, then it's fine, isn't it?" the sparrow proprietress chimed in.

"I agree," Sparda nodded thoughtfully, though inwardly, he didn't quite agree. Was it genuinely acceptable to drive a tank as long as one possessed a license? What did they perceive a tank as? Just another pick-up truck? Then again, considering the students here casually carried weapons, including guns and explosives, perhaps he shouldn't be making too much of a fuss about it.

Maybe, he mused, he should cast aside the logic he had learned in the Human World. Yes, he could do that—consider it normal, not be bothered by it anymore. Yet, deep down, the absurdity of the situation lingered like an unwelcome guest, challenging his understanding of the norm.

Time to shift the focus. Forget tanks and armaments for now. Concentrate on the mission at hand: procuring a hat for Kayoko.

"My lady, may I seek your guidance in selecting a hat for my companion? Preferably, one that is widely favored by the students."

"Chirp. Sensei, while this store is one of the partners for the upcoming Peroro expo, I'm afraid that is too broad of a requirement. There are numerous characters in Momo Friends, and not all students share the same preferences."

"That's…troubling."

"Then, why not choose something that would suit her personality, Sensei?"

A sudden, youthful voice piped up, capturing Sparda's attention.

He turned to find the source and was met with a girl sporting midnight-blue hair, adorned with magenta highlights on the inner side. Distinguishing features included cat ears that mirrored the coloring of her hair. Intriguingly, her eyes exhibited a gradient of colors—starting from the bottom, they transitioned from yellow to red and culminated in a shade of purple.

Clad in a standard short skirt uniform, her ensemble featured a white base with a navy line accentuating the bottom. A black hoodie adorned her upper body, complete with white lines running along the sleeves and accents on the pocket openings. A pink bow tied her dress over the hoodie, complemented by a simple black choker around her neck. Brown tights adorned her legs, leading down to cyan shoes with black soles, heels, white toe caps, collars, and midsoles, all topped off with vibrant red laces.

Upon closer inspection, Sparda discerned a logo on her uniform, indicating her affiliation with Trinity General School, a detail he had gleaned from the files he perused.

"And you are?"

"Kyouyama Kazusa. Don't mind my advice if you think it's too troublesome," she introduced herself.

"No, I appreciate it. I take it you're a fan of this… Momo Friends, as well?" Sparda inquired, expecting a positive response. However, to his surprise, Kazusa shook her head.

"Not really. I heard there would be a new confectionery line launching at this event, but I arrived too early. Since I ate a parfait already and had nothing else to do while waiting for my club members, I'm merely here to kill time while my stomach does its thing," Kazusa casually revealed.

"Parfait, you say? Sounds absolutely divine."

"You should give it a shot, Sensei."

"Indeed, I shall," Sparda affirmed. "Kazusa... would it be acceptable if I referred to you by your first name?" Kazusa nodded in agreement. Sparda continued, "If you were to choose a gift for someone who appears distant but holds a gentle heart within, what would it be?"

"Me? Hmm..." Kazusa strolled towards an aisle adorned with an assortment of cat-themed accessories. Her discerning eyes settled on a cat head-shaped hat. "I'd go for Mr. Nikolai's," Kazusa declared, presenting the hat to Sparda.

As Sparda scrutinized the hat, his fingers reveled in the meticulous craftsmanship, each stitch and detail a testament to the artisan's skill. Design-wise, he entrusted Kazusa's judgment, grappling with the challenge of gauging whether it harmonized with Kayoko's discerning taste.

"I'll take this. Thank you, Kazusa," Sparda declared with a nod of approval, his gaze lingering on the hat. "Is there anything I could do to repay you?"

Kazusa, with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, responded, "It was no big deal, but since you're offering, how about treating me to a strawberry milkshake?"

A warm smile played on Sparda's lips. "That, I can manage. Let me settle the payment first, and then we can—"

Suddenly, the tranquility shattered with a deafening BOOM! The store trembled as if protesting the intrusion, and a high-pitched chirping noise added an eerie backdrop to the chaos.

"What in the world was that?" Sparda exclaimed, his hand instinctively reaching for the hilt of the sword hidden beneath his coat.

Both the sparrow proprietress and Kazusa flinched at the resounding explosion. The source of the commotion quickly revealed itself as a quartet of helmeted girls burst into the store, their presence commanding attention.

"Hands up! We, the Kata Kata Helmet Gang, have now seized this store!" proclaimed the apparent leader, a girl exuding an air of ruthless authority.

"Hand over all the Momo Friends items you have!" another gang member demanded, brandishing a weapon with a menacing flourish.

The patrons, caught off guard, raised their hands in surrender. Any hint of resistance was met swiftly with gunfire, leaving defiant souls writhing in pain on the shop's cold floor.

Sparda's eyes narrowed as he assessed the situation. The Kata Kata Helmet Gang's audacious act had turned a peaceful shopping spree into a dangerous standoff. He exchanged a quick, concerned glance with Kazusa, who had instinctively positioned herself behind a display, her eyes alert and calculating.

The sparrow proprietress, previously chirpy and vibrant, now cowered behind the counter, fear etched across her feathered face. Sparda took a deep breath; the tranquility that had enveloped the store moments ago was replaced by an oppressive tension.

The apparent leader of the gang, displaying a malevolent grin beneath her helmet, surveyed the trembling patrons. "Hurry up! We don't have all day. Empty those shelves, and make it quick!"

"And don't even think about being clever. Let us gather our spoils, and we shall vanish without a ripple," the leader declared, her tone dripping with palpable threat.

As agonizing moans echoed through the store, the sparrow proprietress and others abandoned all pretenses of resistance. Meanwhile, Sparda observed the unfolding drama with a calm demeanor, his mind wrestling with the decision to intervene or adopt a passive stance.

A helmeted delinquent caught sight of Sparda and fixed her attention on him. In response, Sparda raised a quizzical eyebrow, intrigued by the sudden scrutiny.

"Psst, hey," the delinquent whispered to her companion, the conversation reaching Sparda's keen ears. "Doesn't he look familiar? You think we've crossed paths with him before?"

"Nah, doesn't ring a bell. If we ever encountered an old man like him, I'd surely remember," the second delinquent shrugged dismissively.

"I swear I've seen him somewhere before," the first delinquent persisted, her gaze fixated on Sparda.

Trying to distance himself mentally from the discussion, especially the recurring reference to him as an old man, Sparda redirected his attention to the trembling sparrow proprietress, tears glistening in her eyes. His instincts urged him to intervene, yet the potential escalation posed a risk to everyone present, including the store.

While confident in his ability to shield the students, preserving the store without causing harm presented a more intricate challenge. He couldn't accurately assess the store's worth, but both the proprietress and the helmeted students evidently deemed it precious—albeit for different reasons. If the store suffered damage or, worse, destruction, it could have dire consequences for the proprietress.

"Good, good. Now that's more like it. Hey! Bag the stuff quickly before those Valkyrie folks arrive," the gang leader commanded, her voice carrying an air of authority.

The atmosphere in the store grew tenser as the helmeted gang hurriedly collected their ill-gotten gains.

"Hey, should we take this back with us as well?" one of the helmeted students questioned, gesturing toward the animatronic stationed outside.

"Why not? You should probably dismantle it first. Gonna be a pain to take it, otherwise," another member suggested.

The gang's attention shifted to the Peroro animatronic stationed outside the store. The innocent figure, once a source of joy for the students, now faced the prospect of becoming an unwitting casualty of the gang's greed.

Sparda's eyes narrowed, a flicker of indignation crossing his features. The line between his calm demeanor and restrained anger became more pronounced. Kazusa, too, shot a disapproving look at the gang's suggestion, her gaze unwavering.

The group efficiently divided into two, with two members exiting the store to dismantle the animatronic, while the remaining pair vigilantly monitored the individuals within the shop. The clinking sounds of tools being readied for the task mixed with the tense silence inside the store.

"P-please, don't take it away!" the sparrow proprietress pleaded desperately, dashing forward in a futile attempt to reach the cherished animatronic. Her efforts were abruptly halted as she was ruthlessly tackled to the floor, a collision that left her with a bleeding head. Gasping for breath, she continued, "This animatronic is the pride of our establishment! The result of our months-long joint project with the students of Millennium, set to grace the stage tonight! Do you realize how many students would be crushed if you took it away?"

"Uhh…no. And we don't care either way. You can just make it again, can't you?" retorted one of the helmeted gang members callously.

The sparrow proprietress's crestfallen expression mirrored the disappointment that rippled through the watching students, their anger simmering beneath the surface.

Sparda's eyes twitched ever so slightly at the callous disregard for the sparrow proprietress's plea. The collision had left a hushed silence in the store, broken only by the anguished moans of the sparrow proprietress on the floor.

Kazusa, sensing the brewing tension, groaned audibly. Her hands instinctively gravitated toward the smoke grenade concealed beneath her hoodie. "Uwaaaah, spoken like a true villain. I sympathize with the shopkeeper, but we shouldn't act hastily in this situation. Sensei, we should wait until an opportunity prese–"

"Excuse me, girls?" Sparda interjected, no longer heeding Kazusa's advice as he advanced toward the helmeted students. His deliberate steps carried an air of authority, and his intense gaze bore into the helmeted gang members

The girls responded by aiming their guns at him, but in the blink of an eye, Sparda vanished. Confusion gripped them until his voice echoed from behind.

"Let me impart some words of wisdom to you. There are certain lines that you must never cross; otherwise, you wouldn't like what happens next."

Sparda gently placed his hands on their shoulders, and for the two delinquents, the world around them began to spin. However, it wasn't actually the world that was spinning; it was them. They whirled uncontrollably until gravity reclaimed them, leaving them sprawled on the floor, their eyes comically spinning.

The sparrow proprietress staggered to her feet, cradling her injured head. The atmosphere in the store shifted as the students processed the unexpected turn of events. Sparda, with a stoic expression, surveyed the downed gang members.

"I wasn't being too harsh, was I?" Sparda asked, suppressing a chuckle at the cartoonish spectacle of the girls' eyes spinning. He quickly gathered their guns and handed them to Kazusa.

"Sorry to impose on you, but could you look after them for me?" Sparda requested.

"S-sure…" Kazusa stammered, her gaze fixed on Sparda as though he were some rare and elusive creature.

Unbeknownst to them, his vanishing act was a simple application of demonic energy to his feet, creating an instantaneous burst of speed that placed him behind the unsuspecting delinquents. He pondered whimsically about naming this technique 'Trick' style but quickly straightened his attention. Now, with the girls conveniently separated, he saw an opportunity to impart a much-needed lecture.

"Hey, what's the commotion all about?!" The sudden uproar seized the attention of the helmeted delinquents stationed outside. Their voices, laced with alarm, resonated through the store as they burst in, weapons drawn, eyes widening in sheer astonishment. The unfolding pandemonium held the remaining delinquents momentarily dumbfounded.

Sparda, standing with an air of composed authority, gestured toward the two girls on the floor, their eyes still spinning from the effects of his impromptu technique. "Just a little reminder about the consequences of reckless actions. It seems your comrades here needed a lesson in humility."

Shortly thereafter, a battalion of helmeted delinquents arrived, unmistakably reinforcements, rolling in with a convoy of mini trucks. Those perched at the rear of the trucks unleashed a barrage of gunfire into the store, shattering windows and wooden walls, and wreaking havoc on countless items within. Thick trails of smoke billowed behind as everyone inside scrambled for cover.

The sudden onslaught caught Sparda and the others off guard. Kazusa swiftly took cover behind a toppled shelf for cover as bullets whizzed through the air. The sparrow proprietress and the remaining patrons sought refuge, their expressions a mix of fear and disbelief at the escalating chaos.

"Time to scram! The Valkyries are coming!" The urgency in the delinquent's voice echoed through the chaotic scene, causing a ripple of panic among the helmeted gang.

"What? They shouldn't have been this fast! We haven't gathered nearly enough yet! At least, let us take this stupid thing!" The frustration in the delinquent's tone betrayed their unexpected predicament.

"Don't call Peroro-sama a 'stupid thing'!" snapped one of the delinquents, their loyalty to a Peroro evident in the defensive retort.

"Hurry! Just shoot it or something!" The command, laced with frustration and desperation, reverberated through the store as the delinquents hastily readied their guns.

As the tension escalated, Sparda, maintaining his calm demeanor, couldn't help but comment, "Shoot first, talk later seems to be the norm here."

The tension in the air became palpable as Sparda, with calculated grace, stepped out of the store. In his hands, he held a sheathed Yamato, a weapon summoned during the shootout to deflect most bullets away from hitting the proprietress and the quivering students. Despite his efforts, the end result was far from satisfactory, evident in the severe damage inflicted upon the store.

As he surveyed the aftermath, his gaze shifted to neighboring stores in the district. The collateral destruction caused by the Kata Kata Helmet Gang became increasingly apparent. While he couldn't deny the fiery spirits that drove their actions, a steely resolve settled in Sparda's eyes. Determination was etched across his features as he was set on putting a stop to their reckless rampage.

"Excuse me, but I can't allow you to take this animatronic away, nor could I let you get away without taking some responsibility after you've created this mess. Don't worry; if you have difficulties writing apology letters, I will gladly lend you my help," Sparda calmly asserted. His demeanor radiated politeness, yet an underlying firmness tinged his tone.

"And what are you gonna do if we don't comply, old man?" a delinquent asked mockingly, stepping in front of the others.

The situation teetered on the brink of chaos, the atmosphere thick with uncertainty. In a heartbeat, the lead delinquent aimed her gun at Sparda, but before she could pull the trigger, Sparda sprang into action.

With supernatural speed, he gracefully intercepted the delinquent's arm mid-motion, moving through the chaos with the finesse of a dancer. The delinquent struggled against his grip, but Sparda's strength proved insurmountable. He swiftly disarmed her and, with a fluid motion, brought her down to the pavement.

"Your methods, my dear, verge on the extreme, do they not?" Sparda's voice retained its calm composure, his gaze fixed on the bewildered delinquent.

"What are you doing?! Shoot him!" The remaining delinquents promptly aimed their weapons at Sparda, their frustration escalating into a desperate attempt to regain control.

"Twenty-two students and four vehicles, hm?" Sparda remarked, maintaining his unruffled demeanor as if counting the pieces of a strategic puzzle in his mind.

"Sensei!" Kazusa's urgent voice resonated from within the store. Without hesitation, she sprang into action, unloading her black Bren Gun at the delinquents.

Having disarmed the lead delinquent, Sparda expertly broke her weapon into two pieces, transforming them into makeshift projectiles. The fragments struck two delinquents square on their helmeted heads, inducing disorientation rather than significant harm.

Nevertheless, it proved a pivotal moment. With Kazusa intensifying the assault and the diversion created by Sparda's acrobatic intervention, a window of opportunity swung open.

And so, Sparda moved.

The consequence was a spectacle that defied gravity – eighteen delinquents found themselves suspended mid-air, their bewildered gazes skyward. Gradually, they descended onto the flatbeds of the waiting mini trucks, each impact a reminder that their positions, though physically manageable, left them ensnared and immobilized.

Sparda, ever the composed orchestrator of chaos, surveyed the scene with an air of satisfaction. "It appears the winds of change have swept through, my dear delinquents," he quipped, a wry smile playing on his lips.

The lead delinquent, now disarmed and humbled, glared daggers at Sparda. "This isn't over, old man! You may have the upper hand now, but we're not done with you," she snarled, defiance still burning in her eyes. The echoes of the confrontation lingered in the air, a precursor to the uncertain aftermath that awaited the district.

Attempting to regain control of the situation, the four students in the driver seats fumbled to exit their vehicles, their urgency palpable. However, their efforts were met with an unexpected twist. Before they could step out to lend their aid, canisters of flashbangs sailed through their windows, prompting a cascade of panicked stammers.

"W-w-w-w-w-!" Their voices, now a symphony of confusion, resonated just before the grenades detonated, enveloping them in a disorienting white light and rendering them incapacitated. The blinding flashes and deafening bangs echoed through the district, temporarily throwing the entire scene into chaos.

Sparda himself had to shield his eyes. Thinking that it was overkill to throw that many flashbangs, he turned to look at the perpetrator with a raised eyebrow.

"Overkill, perhaps?" he remarked, his tone hinting at a mild amusement.

"Nowhere near the level of theatrics you pulled, Sensei," Kazusa chimed in, a mischievous smirk playing on her lips as she revealed herself to be the mastermind behind the dazzling display.

The Kata Kata Helmet Gang, still reeling from the unexpected assault, found themselves disoriented and vulnerable.

"How? How could we lose?! Old man! This is all your fault! Who the hell do you think you are ruining our job like this?!" The leader of the Kata Kata Helmet Gang seethed with frustration, her voice a mix of anger and bewilderment.

"I'm your Sensei," was all the answer Sparda gave, his tone unwavering and calm amid the chaos.

"Sensei? Sen…wait. I know that face, and that logo on your uniform…it couldn't be?! You–you're the Sensei from SCHALE!" Recognition flashed across the leader's face, her eyes widening in disbelief as the pieces of the puzzle fell into place.

Sparda maintained a composed demeanor, not revealing any hints of surprise. "Indeed, I am. And it seems your little gang picked the wrong target today."

The leader, now realizing the gravity of their situation, exchanged uneasy glances with her incapacitated comrades. The once-confident Kata Kata Helmet Gang found themselves at the mercy of the very person they underestimated.

"Sensei…why would you mess with our business?" The leader's defiance wavered, giving way to a hint of fear.

Sparda fixed the leader with a gaze that held a blend of scrutiny and understanding. His voice, though calm, resonated with authority. "Business or not, criminal activities cannot go unchecked. Furthermore, you are my students first and foremost, and while others in my position might prefer to let you learn the consequences of your actions, I am of the opinion that it is the duty of adults to prevent children like you from falling into a hole that you wouldn't be able to climb out of."

The leader, now fully cognizant of the gravity of the situation, struggled to maintain a facade of defiance. Sparda's words cut through the bravado, exposing a paternal concern she hadn't anticipated.

As the distant wails of sirens drew nearer, the leader and her gang members exchanged uneasy glances. The once audacious spirits that fueled their illicit endeavors were now subdued by the unexpected turn of events. The weight of their actions bore down on them, and Sparda's measured words hung in the air like an unspoken admonition.

"Well, think about it, alright? You've still got a long way ahead of you. If you need my help, don't hesitate to contact me or come to SCHALE. Even if you don't need help, I would be happy to have a chat with you," Sparda concluded, his words carrying a subtle warmth and genuine concern for the misguided students before him. Despite the severity of the situation, his offer of assistance and understanding came from a belief in their potential for redemption and growth.

o-0-o

"How are your wounds?" inquired Sparda, his concern etched across his face as he addressed the sparrow proprietress. She winced slightly but managed to summon a small, grateful smile in response. The medic from Valkyrie diligently attended to her injuries, a testament to the swift response from the medics of the renowned organization.

"I'll be alright, thanks to the quick response from the Valkyrie medics. Your intervention, Sensei, made all the difference. I can't express my gratitude enough," she conveyed, her voice a blend of gratitude and resilience.

Sparda nodded, a silent acknowledgment of the collective efforts that had ensured her well-being. "I'm glad to see you're in good hands now. If there's anything else I can do to assist, please don't hesitate to let me know," he offered with a genuine sincerity that reflected his commitment to the sparrow proprietress's welfare.

As the medic meticulously tended to the injuries, Sparda's perceptive gaze swept across the store. The remnants of the chaotic encounter were gradually being swept away, replaced by a semblance of normalcy. Yet, a tinge of remorse lingered in Sparda's expression.

"I'm sorry," he confessed, a rare admission from the usually composed sensei.

"Sensei?" inquired the proprietress, curious about the sudden shift in Sparda's demeanor.

"I could not protect your store. Perhaps, were I to be more proactive..." he trailed off, contemplating his role in the unexpected turmoil.

The sparrow proprietress, however, interrupted his self-reflection with a gentle smile. "Sensei, you did more than enough. You stepped in to help when we needed it most. None of us expected such an incident, and your swift action prevented it from escalating further. We are grateful for your presence here."

Despite the reassurance, Sparda couldn't completely shake off the lingering sense of responsibility. "If there's anything I can do to make amends..."

Her head shook in dismissal. "No need, Sensei. You've already done a great deal. Let us focus on healing and restoring order here. Your concern is more than enough for us."

However, as the medic continued their meticulous work, the proprietress's gaze shifted toward the Peroro animatronic. While it appeared relatively unscathed at first glance, closer inspection revealed bullet holes marring its frame. Although connected to a power source, it became evident that some vital components inside were damaged, rendering it motionless.

"Something in your mind?"

"I'm just thinking about how sad those children would be that they wouldn't be able to display their work," the proprietress expressed with a touch of sadness, her concern extending beyond the immediate aftermath of the incident.

"Could we not fix it?" Sparda inquired, his gaze fixed on the damaged Peroro animatronic.

The sparrow proprietress sighed, her expression reflecting a blend of regret and realism. "It's a product of students from Millennium. I doubt anyone outside of the school would be able to do it."

Sparda considered the logistical challenge, but before he could delve further into the matter, Kazusa's voice interjected with a suggestion that sparked a glimmer of hope. "Then, why not bring it there and ask them to fix it?"

Turning his attention to Kazusa, Sparda raised an inquisitive eyebrow. "Kazusa, and…who's this?" His eyes traversed to the diminutive girl standing beside Kazusa, her locks of dark blue hair elegantly fashioned into twin tails adorned with streaks of ethereal light blue, crafting a lively and striking contrast.

"Nemugaki Fubuki~, nice to meet you, Sensei," Fubuki drawled, introducing herself with a lazy charm and punctuating the greeting with a nonchalant salute. Her attire, resembling a flamboyant rendition of a female police officer's uniform, was a riot of colors and eccentricity. A baggy overcoat adorned with vibrant pink accessories and oversized, hot pink rubber shoes added a whimsical touch to what would otherwise be considered a formal ensemble.

"Well, Sensei, you sure have a knack for stumbling into trouble, don't you? Two incidents in less than 24 hours; are you a workaholic, Sensei?" Fubuki teased, her words dripping with playful banter as she observed the unfolding scene.

"I take it you're from Valkyrie?" Sparda inquired, directing his question at Fubuki.

"That's right~. Troublesome as it is, I'm a proud member of Valkyrie's Public Safety Bureau," Fubuki revealed, her tone carrying a nonchalant acknowledgment of the challenges inherent in her role.

Sparda acknowledged Fubuki's affiliation with a subtle nod before turning his inquisitive gaze to Kazusa. "She's a friend of yours?"

Kazusa shook her head, wearing a bemused expression. "No way. I had just finished recounting what happened to them, and then out of nowhere, this girl here decides she wants to tag along with me."

"Is it bad that I want to catch a glimpse of the Sensei from SCHALE?" Fubuki interjected with a mischievous smile. "Anyway, I just wanted to drop by and extend my greetings since it appears I can count on you to handle our work. So, see you again soon, Sensei~."

With that, Fubuki strolled away, leaving Sparda and Kazusa exchanging bewildered glances.

"Did she really just say that?" Sparda questioned, seeking confirmation from Kazusa.

Kazusa nodded. "She most certainly did." The incredulity lingered in her voice, mirroring the confusion etched across both their faces.

Sparda sighed, fatigue evident in his actions as he tiredly rubbed his eyes. A city where students openly carried weapons and its law enforcement happily passed the responsibility of solving issues to a third party - it was a peculiar place indeed.

Anyway…

"My lady," Sparda began, addressing the proprietress beside him, "as Kazusa suggested, could we not enlist the help of the students from Millennium to rectify this situation?"

"The issue lies in the timing, Sensei. The Momo Friends animatronics are scheduled to be displayed on the stage this evening, and considering the necessary equipment preparation and travel time, the window is regrettably too narrow."

"This evening, you say? What precisely is the time?" Sparda inquired.

"19:00."

"So, we have around 7 hours left."

"It's a different story if they can address the problem on-site, but to enter Millennium, outsiders like me must submit a permission request, and it must be done at the very latest 24 hours before."

"And you can't expedite that process?"

"It's unfortunately beyond my control. The protocol must be adhered to," she explained, her tone carrying the weight of bureaucratic constraints.

That was all Sparda needed to hear. With a determined resolve, he strode towards one of the mini trucks left behind by the Kata Kata Helmet Gang and ignited its engine.

Then, he quickly approached the animatronic, and, with a single fluid motion, Sparda hoisted the animatronic onto his shoulder, the weight seemingly inconsequential in the grasp of his strength. As he traversed the distance to the waiting truck, he couldn't help but notice the peculiar expressions exchanged between Kazusa and the sparrow.

"What?" Sparda inquired, his brow furrowed in mild confusion.

"Are you a gorilla?" Kazusa asked with a teasing glint in her eyes.

"Rude. In what way do I resemble a gorilla?"

"That thing has to weigh at least a hundred kilos, Sensei. If you're not secretly a gorilla, I don't know what you are," she retorted, the incredulity evident in her tone as she regarded the impressive display of strength before her.

"I'm built different," Sparda quipped with a wry smile as he carefully placed the animatronic on the back of the mini truck.

"Sensei, what are you going to do with that?" the sparrow proprietress asked, her curiosity evident in the tilt of her head.

"Take it to Millennium, of course. It's a fortunate coincidence that I'm headed there as well," Sparda declared, his voice carrying an air of assurance and purpose. Sensing a potential objection from the proprietress, he swiftly added, "This isn't solely for your benefit. I, too, harbor a genuine interest in immersing myself in the Momo Friends event. If it's as enchanting as you've painted it, allowing the atmosphere to be tainted by a minor incident like this is simply unacceptable. So, please, entrust this to me."

The proprietress, her initial resistance softened, relented with a nod. "I understand. When you arrive in Millennium, seek out the Engineering Department. They should be able to rectify the issue in time for the event."

"Alright," Sparda nodded as he settled into the driver's seat.

The creaking sound of a door being opened caught his attention, prompting Sparda to glance at the passenger's seat.

There, Kazusa sat, casually tapping on her phone.

"What are you up to?" Sparda queried.

"Hmm? Oh, just giving Yoshimi a heads-up that I'll be running a bit late for our meet-up," Kazusa explained, his response laced with casual nonchalance.

"No, that wasn't what I was asking." Sparda's gaze held a mixture of curiosity and confusion, prompting Kazusa to look up from her phone with an arched eyebrow.

"You want to know why I hopped in, right?" Kazusa said, vocalizing the question that Sparda had been silently contemplating. "Well... I've got too much time to spare, and since it seems like it's going to be fun sticking with you, Sensei... I'll be in your care," she declared with a mischievous glint in her eyes.

…

…

…

Sparda sighed.

"Put on your seatbelt."

"Too constraining."

"Put. On. Your. Seatbelt."

"Okay…" Kazusa reluctantly agreed. The truck smoothly merged onto the road, but Kazusa soon realized that the route didn't align with the direction of Millennium. "Sensei, where are we going?"

"There's someone I need to see," Sparda explained as he nonchalantly pulled up Mr. Nikolai's hat, revealing it to Kazusa. Since he had left behind the money on the counter, this didn't count as stealing, right?

o-0-o

Kayoko observed the little furball, nestled in the crook of her arm, enthusiastically gobbling up the treat she had tucked away in her bag. Its fervor was infectious, and a small smile crept onto Kayoko's face. Glancing up at the park clock, she realized that Sparda-Sensei had been absent for nearly an hour.

A pang of concern tugged at Kayoko's thoughts. Could Sparda-Sensei have decided to leave? Perhaps he realized that associating with potential troublemakers like herself could have adverse consequences for his reputation.

Unexpectedly, she sensed a gentle weight settling on her head. A voice, familiar and comforting, prompted her to glance upward. Yet, in an inexplicable turn of events, the kitten nestled in her arm reacted with sudden hostility. It hissed, its fur bristling, and swiftly scampered away as if disturbed by an unseen force.

"Looks like you've made a friend, Kayoko," came Sparda-Sensei's voice. Perched atop her head was a hat adorned with the charming likeness of Mr. Nikolai from Momo Friends.

Kayoko shot him a quick glance, a mixture of surprise and mild irritation, causing Sparda-Sensei to flinch momentarily. Though unabashed in her love for cats, the nature of her work instilled a sense of caution. She was wary that this passion might become a potential liability for the team. The contrasting emotions played out on her face, leaving Sparda-Sensei momentarily uncertain about the reception of his playful gesture.

However, Sparda-Sensei, ever perceptive, caught the meaning behind her gaze and quickly reassured her. "My lips…are sealed," he swore, his hands raised in a surrendering gesture.

A sigh escaped Kayoko; it seemed she had no choice but to trust him to keep her feline inclinations under wraps. Removing the hat from her head, she found herself captivated by its quality, even as someone generally indifferent to Momo Friends merchandise.

"You look really good with that hat on," Sparda-Sensei remarked.

"Why bother with this?" Kayoko inquired, genuinely perplexed.

"Well... there's a party going on. I saw a lot of students flaunting character hats and costumes like this."

Was there a Momo Friends' exhibition or some similar event underway? Kayoko had no clue, but with the recent chaos caused by infrastructure meltdowns, perhaps the franchise owner felt the urgency to swiftly resume event production after a brief hiatus. However, the more pressing matter lingered in the air.

"You already knew, so why?" Kayoko probed, attempting to unearth the motivation behind Sparda-Sensei's puzzling action.

"Knew what?" Sparda-Sensei's feigned cluelessness was about as convincing as a cat pretending it didn't knock over a vase. Still, he fared better than Aru, though Mutsuki would undoubtedly find the act laughable.

She had anticipated him delving into the truth, so Kayoko was honestly taken aback. Why did he choose not to pursue the subject? Shouldn't a teacher admonish troublemaking students? Not that she considered herself one. Well, if that was his call, who was she to sway his decision?

Kayoko's gaze shifted to a truck parked on the road, and atop it rested a Peroro animatronic.

"Sensei, that's…"

"Oh, that? Well, it's a long story, but here's the gist of it," Sparda-Sensei began, launching into a recount of the events that transpired during his absence. As the tale unfolded, Kayoko couldn't help but stare in a mixture of surprise and fascination.

"So, if I've got this straight, you decided to tackle this issue without any prodding?" Kayoko inquired, a furrow forming between her brows as she sought clarification.

Sparda-Sensei nodded affirmatively. "Yes."

"Sensei... I'm torn between thinking you're excessively kind or just a tad naive. If you keep this up, people might take advantage of you," Kayoko warned, her voice tinged with genuine concern.

A hint of playful optimism crept into Sparda-Sensei's response as he met her gaze with a knowing smile. "But you won't, right?"

Kayoko sighed, a mix of frustration and fondness swirling within her. What a hopeless adult. And yet, there was an undeniable charm in his unwavering attitude, reminiscent of someone she held dear—Aru.

Without dwelling too long on her musings, Kayoko walked past Sparda-Sensei, heading toward the truck.

"Kayoko?" Sparda-Sensei called after her.

"I haven't repaid you for that cake I ruined. Mind if I tag along?" Kayoko asked, a genuine concern for Sparda-Sensei woven into her words. Perhaps it was the subtle resemblance to Aru that stirred this sentiment within her.

"Do as you please," Sparda-Sensei relented, his acquiescence enveloped in a comforting warmth.

Approaching the truck, Kayoko was met with the sight of a female student seated in the passenger's seat, engrossed in her phone. The rhythmic tapping of keys echoed as Kayoko drew closer. Glancing at the screen, she caught a glimpse of a vibrant game, the student seemingly unperturbed as she continued to play.

"New passenger?" Kayoko inquired, her eyes shifting between Kazusa and Sparda-Sensei.

"Ah, yes. This is Kayoko, and Kayoko, meet Kazusa," Sparda-Sensei introduced, a genial smile playing on his lips.

Their eyes locked, and Kayoko couldn't suppress a subtle tensing of her shoulders at the sight of the Trinity logo adorning Kazusa's uniform. "A Trinity Student," she noted with a touch of wariness.

Kazusa finally diverted her attention from her phone, acknowledging Kayoko with a casual "Oh, you're from Gehenna," the words carrying a hint of nonchalance. Undeterred, she extended a laid-back invitation, "So… hop in?"

"If you'll have me," Kayoko responded, the tentative tension dissolving as she settled into the available space next to Kazusa. "Apologies if it feels a bit cramped," she added, a considerate smile gracing her features

"Good, good. Now, if only the rest of the journey is as peaceful as this…" Sparda-Sensei remarked contentedly as he settled into the driver's seat.

However, Kayoko harbored a different concern. "Sensei, are you certain you should be behind the wheel?" she queried.

Sparda-Sensei looked genuinely puzzled. "What's with that question?" he asked, his expression one of innocent curiosity.

"I mean, you don't even know where Millennium is, do you?" Kayoko pointed out, a touch of skepticism in her tone.

A mischievous smile played on Sparda-Sensei's lips. Without a hint of guilt, he replied, "I have excellent navigators here with me. What could possibly go wrong?"

Kayoko and Kazusa exchanged flat stares, their skepticism unabated, as if silently questioning the wisdom of their decision. The truck, now hurtling down the road under Sparda-Sensei's confident yet uncertain guidance, carried an air of uncertainty.

As the landscape blurred outside, the unspoken question lingered between the two: Was it too late to abandon this ship?

o-0-o

A/N: Sorry for making you wait. I planned to release this chapter 2 weeks ago, but unfortunately got sick and had no energy to write.

Anyway, Kayoko and Kazusa have joined the party! Next destination is Millennium's Engineering Department! Perhaps Sparda could borrow their equipment to recreate Luce and Ombra? And as for what's going to happen when he finally meet with Yuuka again, well, please take a guess.