Chapter 45
We finally arrive in Fuyuki, and I wake up Shuka, who follows me sluggishly through the station. Then, just as we're about to board the bus to Shuka's neighborhood, a familiar voice calls out to me.
"Good evening Senji."
"Kakashi-sensei..." I turn to see him, leaning against a fence, looking half-surprised to see me here.
(Oh no, what am I supposed to tell him... Wait... yes, it's a good thing he's here, it helped me make up my mind)
"Senji, what are we doing, the bus is here." Shuka tugs at my sleeve.
"I'm sorry, but I need to speak with my teacher, so we'll be in touch soon, okay?"
"Okay, no problem, see ya." She says, kissing my cheek.
Then she scurries off to catch the bus, under my embarrassed gaze and Kakashi's suspicious one.
"How was your date?" He asks, approaching me.
"If only it were. But, I think you know why I come back so late."
"...So it's true, you were taking part in that game in Shibuya too."
"..? What do you mean me too?"
"We've received several calls from parents who've seen their children disappear, and then the alert that everyone received saying that a treasure hunt was going to be held, it's no idea. That's when we got the call from Fujimura, saying you were unreachable."
"I see..." I feel even worse for Fuji-nee.
"So, I can see you have some things to tell me, but maybe not here..."
"Indeed, I must warn you of something I've created." Kakashi is perplexed. "Follow me, we'll talk about it at my place."
On the way, we say nothing to each other, my attention turned to my phone, which keeps vibrating. After I got on the train, I took the opportunity to reassure everyone and ask them to wait for me, to explain to everyone what I'd gotten myself into. Now the replies are pouring in, eagerly awaiting my return.
"I'm home!" No sooner do I say these words than I can hear them running down the corridor.
"Senpai! Welcome back! Kakashi-sensei, welcome. We've prepared some tea for you." It's Sakura who greets us, I can see she's holding back from asking me a billion questions because Kakashi is there.
"Good evening Sakura, thank you, I think we're going to need it." Kakashi greets her, removing his shoes and following us to the dining room.
When Sakura slid open the door, all eyes were on me, Haruko was clearly angry with me, and rightly so, Inaho was very worried, but the light found its way back into her eyes when she saw me, and Kodama nodded at me. Chiyo and Fuji-nee suddenly stand up and give me a hug.
"Damn it Senji, you're going to make me age faster with all this..." Fuji-nee murmurs.
"Sorry, but it was impossible to contact all of you. The messages just weren't getting through." I stroke Fuji-nee's back, reassuring her.
I turn to Chiyo, who is looking at me intently. I know immediately what she's thinking, so I nod to answer her question. With that, the two of them retire to allow Kakashi and I to sit down, taking the opportunity to drink the glass of tea in one gulp.
"Good. First of all, I'd like to apologize in advance, because I've put you all in danger indirectly. I swear it wasn't on purpose. Now, I'm not going to go into details, but I'll explain what happened."
When I finish my story, I can see different expressions on their faces, but for the most part, it's very negative.
"So if I summarize correctly, you humiliated a psychopath at the head of an army and now he has his sights set on finding and killing you?" Kakashi asks.
"That's right." I affirm, drinking my second glass of tea.
"...But, sensei, if One is this dangerous, it's not just Senji or us who are in danger but the whole of Fuyuki." Haruko explains.
"Yes, but is he as dangerous as Senji claims? It's not that I don't believe you, but does someone that crazy really exist?" Kodama rightly asks.
"I think we can trust Senji on this one, he's not the type to talk about people like that." Fuji-nee says.
"In any case, let's assume this guy is dangerous enough to take down a city, what do you plan to do Senji?" Kakashi asks me.
"...If he's really going to come looking for me, he's bound to send his men to the school, so we must warn Minori-sensei. As for me..." I didn't have time to finish my sentence when Kakashi cut me off.
"Very well, that's a good idea, let the school principal know, after that, we'll see what happens next for you. But remember that you live in a city protected by many heroes and shinobis, with the Hokage building here. But above all, there's the school for our future warriors here, so I don't think I'm biting when I say you're pretty safe here, okay?" Kakashi reassures me, patting his hand on my shoulder.
"...Of course." I nod.
"Well, for now, Senji needs to shower and go to bed, look at you, you're having a nose dive. Come on, that goes for everyone. Kakashi, can you take Sakura home please?" Fuji-nee asks as she helps me to my feet without staggering.
When I finally go to bed, Chiyo invites herself into my futon, and takes me in her arms, holding me close as if afraid of losing me, I finally feel the stress leave me, enjoying this gentle warmth until the next day.
Sunday, January 15, 2023.
That strange feeling of going to school on a Sunday, when the campus is completely empty, leaving a vague impression of loneliness. Kakashi-sensei accompanies me, and we pass the old building, where I can see the members of the occult research club. We greet each other before continuing on my way. I also know that Haruko, Inaho and Fuji-nee have gone to warn the other members of Maken-ki of the situation. When we arrive at the door of the principal's office, we can hear a lot of chatter. Kakashi knocks and no sound comes out.
"Come in!" I was expecting to hear Minori, but it's someone else inviting us in.
Kakashi opens the door and invites me in. I step forward and immediately feel very small. Numerous heroes planted in Fuyuki are present, even All Might and a few Shinobi are there too, protecting the Hokage who is also here.
"Welcome Senji, I can see you're a little stressed at the sight of all these little people, but you've got nothing to worry about!"
The person talking to me is quite small and has the appearance of a combination of several animals, including a dog, a mouse and a bear. He has the head of a mouse with circular black eyes and a large scar across his right eye. His ears are square-shaped and pale pink inside. He has a long muzzle and a small black nose. His fur is white and he has wide paws with pale pink dog-like pads and a cat-like tail. He wears a white shirt with a dark red tie, a black sleeveless suit vest and pants of the same color. He wears orange high-top sneakers.
"Everything will be fine Senji, you're just here to tell us what happened yesterday, then we'll make a decision to protect you, the school and Fuyuki. So relax, take your time and we'll listen." Minori finishes the sentence of the little person next to her.
I take a deep breath and begin the story. As we progress, I can see different faces, judgment, disgust, doubts, all these faces, all these eyes piercing me. I try to hide it, but I'm clearly uncomfortable, especially when some of the Shinobis clearly show a certain aggressiveness. My body and voice tremble slightly, but I hold on and finally finish telling what happened yesterday.
"Thank you Senji, you can go and sit down while we find a solution." Minori points to a seat next to Kakashi.
"Excuse me for a second, but we're leaving something out." Said a shinobi pointing at me. "Young man, you did say that you caused several murders during this game, didn't you? So I think it's only fair to punish him or at least lock him up to keep an eye on him, the demon that he is could wake up at any moment so..."
"Sorry to cut you off, but this isn't the most appropriate time to talk about it." The little principal interrupts the shinobi.
"With all due respect Mr. Nezu, it seems to me that it is..."
"With all due respect to you dear colleague, the situation in which our student found himself was one of life or death. Punishing a situation like this is unfair at every level. So no, our student will not be punished." Minori raises her voice, slightly irritated by the shinobi's insistence.
"Then at least put in a psychological follow-up, we don't know what impact it'll have on him and the monster inside. Does that sound fair, lord Hokage?" The other Shinobi turned to the old man, who had been pensive until now.
He looks at me for a few seconds, probably wondering how to answer, then a smile appears on his face.
"That's for Senji to decide. But I don't think there's much point, as you know and it's very unfortunate, but most of our children know death, have seen it up close, sometimes even given it. We live in a very troubled age, so there are far too many children like Senji. That's why these schools exist, to help these children and turn their misfortunes into a source of motivation, to become better and save lives in their turn. Right, Minori-san, Nezu-san."
"I couldn't have said it better myself, Lord Hokage." Nezu agreed.
"That's exactly right. That's why you came to us Senji, because you trust us. So we'll return the favor. That's why I hope you'll keep coming to class. Fuyuki is the safest town in Konoha state, so you don't have to worry, okay?" Minori asks me.
(...She's right, staying hidden will only stress me out more, because that's all I'll be thinking about.)
"Of course. I can't afford to waste time on this guy." I nod. (Time itself won't wait for this situation to resolve, so I have to keep moving, no matter what.)
After several minutes of debate, the meeting finally comes to an end. I separate from my teachers and head for Rias and the others, to explain the situation, then head for a café near the school, at the request of a certain person.
"I see, it's certainly the wisest choice to make in this situation." Rain nods, setting down her cup of hot chocolate.
"It's mainly that I didn't see any other solution and that it's bound to have an impact on the people I know..." I cast my blurred gaze over my mug.
"Absolutely, as you said yourself, One is a big sicko, he'll show no mercy in going after Fuyuki, even if it's where the Hokage lives. In any case, thank you for this, as I too feel a little safer, especially as he knows my face, having seen it up close..."
"Do you also live in Fuyuki?"
"Yes. That reminds me, have you heard from Ryuji? Shuka and Sui replied, but not him... Wait, don't tell me he's dead?"
"Ah no, at the end, One cut off one of his hands. So now he's being treated, which is probably why he didn't answer you."
"Having a cut hand treated? Like getting it back? Who can do that?"
"The wife of the clan chief of the Danjo boxing club."
"Hmm, yes I see, that's good news..." I can feel her insistent gaze on me. "Senji, I can see it on your face that you're hiding something from me."
"...It's nothing... It's just that Shuka and I are going to create a clan soon, so I proposed an alliance with them. I won't have an answer for another month, but I suppose it's a start."
"That's a good idea, considering your common enemy."
"That's what I understood when Inukai explained their situation to me."
"Hmmmh." She tries to answer, sipping her chocolate. "Hah, to tell you the truth, just about every clan has One as a common enemy, it just goes to show how dangerous he is..."
"…"
I turn my gaze to the street, watching the snowflakes fall slowly, adding to the layer of snow on the ground. The café is quiet, with very few people in it at this time of day, and the few who are here are very quiet, enjoying the restful silence, reading a newspaper or a book. The waitress discreetly passes by to take the empty cups and plates with a comforting smile. Outside, a family passes in front of the café, children running and squabbling, picking up snow and throwing it at each other. One of them slips and falls to the ground, but immediately gets up and runs after his sister, laughing.
(Even though I know it's coming and I'm risking a lot of people's lives... Right now, I feel at ease, relaxed...)
"Senji." I turn my attention back to her, also looking out the window, "I've thought it over and would like to join your clan."
"Hm? The solo player decides to switch sides?"
"Yes, with what happened yesterday, I realized the limits to playing solo, which are even more conspicuous for me. I have no offensive capabilities and I realize that running away won't be able to save me all the time..." She moves her plastered arm. "Besides, my information will be useful, even if it means fewer customers. Anyway, if it means I can survive, then I won't say no."
"There's no problem for me, but are you sure you want to join us, especially right now?"
"Senji, you're the strongest teenager I know. You've proven to me absolutely everything I needed to know about you. And it's precisely because of what's happening now that I want to join you. We're both involved in this story. I'm not a coward, I'll fight alongside you against One and we'll give him a run for his money." I can see the strong determination in her eyes.
"Okay, that's fine with me, but it's not going to be a piece of cake."
"I know it well. Oh before I go, I need to talk to you about one more thing." I can see it on her face: regret, bitterness, sorrow...
"Is this about the florist?"
"..." She nods. "Before he sacrificed himself and took a good part of the army of One with him, he told me one thing. He has a daughter in a hospital and he wishes that, if she wants it, that we tell her how her father died."
"...I can understand that... And he told you where?"
"No, we haven't really had time, which is why as soon as I get home I'm going to resume my research."
"Okay keep me posted, I'll go with you when you figure it out."
"Thank you and same to you, invite me directly as soon as the clan is created." She stands up, picking up her things. "On that note, have a nice day Senji and don't think about it too much ok?"
"I'll try yes, good day to you too."
Half-satisfied with my answer, Rain leaves, putting on her long coat, preparing for the cold. I watch her go, enjoying a few more moments before it's my turn to return. But when I ask for the bill to pay, the waitress tells me that Rain has already paid it, for both of us.
"She asked me to tell you that this is the little she can do to thank you, she really is lovely isn't she?" Explains the waitress.
"Yes, ok thank you, have a nice day."
"Thank you, you too!"
(When did she do that?)
Monday, January 16, 2023.
"Pfouah! Classes are finally over! Why does it feel like it took longer than usual?" Shiria asks.
"I feel like every Monday is longer..." Youta adds.
As we leave the school, I can see further on Jonathan and Erina walking down the road together, hand in hand.
(Well, here are two lucky ones.)
"Oh! Is that Jojo? Who's he with?" Shiria follows my gaze to notice them in turn.
"Hmmm? Oh, that bastard, don't tell me that muscle boy's got himself a girlfriend!? Yes, he has! Damn it!" Youta couldn't believe it.
"Her name's Erina, they've been wanting to go out for a while but were too embarrassed, but I see the problem's been solved." I explain to my two comrades.
"I see... Good for him, always supporting the buddies." Said Youta, with tears in her eyes.
"Indeed, if things go well between them, it's perfect." Then she turns her attention to me. "What about you Senji, do you have a crush on someone, or maybe you already have a girlfriend?"
"No, nothing like that... I don't really have the time, or the leisure to be honest..." My attention turns to Dio and his gang, who are following the two lovers from a distance.
"I see..." Shiria says no more, knowing full well my situation. "Well, I must go and join the others, see you tomorrow boys!" She greets us, then runs off.
"Hi Shiria-san, see you tomorrow!" Youta waves, with a stupid smile. "Ahhh... Shiria smells so good..."
"I've got a bad feeling..." I'm thinking out loud.
"Hmm? About what? The upcoming tests? Well, it's going to be a piece of cake for you. Besides, do you have any spare time to help me with... Senji?" Youta draws my attention back to him, seeing that I'm not listening.
"Ah... Sorry, but I have a feeling Dio is going to do something stupid, so I'll leave you there..."
"Well, the blond boy is again the center of attention? Then I'll follow you. Want to see what stupid thing he'll come up with next."
Accompanied by my comrade, we follow Dio and his two friends, also closely following Jonathan and Elina. When Jojo arrives at the gate to his mansion, he greets Elina and goes home, leaving her to return alone.
(...What's that idiot doing? Why doesn't he take her home? Does he want to be the perfect gentleman or not? There really is room for improvement...)
And just as I feared, Dio isn't interested in Jojo, but in Elina, who continues to follow her. When we're far enough away, Dio finally calls out to her.
"Excuse me! Hi! Your name is... Erina, right?" Dio asks, and Elina just nods. "So you're Jojo's girlfriend, right? I've been thinking about how cheerful he's been lately, so that's what it was!"
Having surely been warned by Jojo of Dio's attitude, Elina doesn't continue the conversation and tries to move on, but Dio catches her and forces a kiss on the lips, shocking Elina and Dio's friends.
"He... He did it!" Exclaims one of them.
"That bastard, why is he kissing Jojo's girlfriend?" Youta exclaims, hiding next to me.
Erina tried to free herself from dio's grip, tugging at his clothes but to no avail.
"Dio is incredible! He quietly does what we can't! That's what's so great about him! What class!" Says the other.
(What a bunch of losers.)
Dio finally released her, letting her fall into the snow in shock. Her eyes are wide, she's shaking and struggling to breathe.
"Tell me... Have you kissed Jojo? Not yet, I bet..." Dio asks, running his hand over his mouth. "You won't have received your first kiss from him! But from me, Dio!"
Hearing this, Erina bursts into tears. Then she takes some snow and rubs it into her mouth.
"Aah! Take a look! But what's she..." One points at Elina.
When Dio turns around and sees her doing this, he looks shocked.
"What's wrong with her?" Asks the other.
"She washes her mouth out with snow!" Replies the other.
"What's wrong with her? Even if she didn't like Dio kissing her, why does she wash with that instead of soap?"
I can see Dio boiling with rage while his two stupid friends talk for nothing. I decide to come out of hiding, followed by Youta, not quite sure of himself.
"You filthy pestilence!" Dio shouts, fists clenched. "Is that your way of showing what you think?! That's some cheap self-esteem right there!" He's about to hit her.
It's as I approach that I see Erina's gaze at that moment, a serious tone that doesn't flinch in the face of Dio's violence.
"That's enough, Dio!" I raise my voice, to make myself heard, walking quickly towards them.
Dio stops, hearing me. He turns to look at me and his eyes widen.
"Senji! What are you doing here?!"
"Back off." I stand between Dio and Erina, staring him straight in the eyes.
"Who do you think you are, meddling in other people's business, eh?" He raises his fist and prepares to punch me.
"I said..." I grab his hand without flinching and push him away violently. "Back off."
"...Senji..." I turn to see Erina in tears, looking at me.
"You were talking about junk self-esteem, right? The only person here with that is you. Taking it out on a defenseless girl who's someone else's girlfriend is really low, pitiful even."
"How dare you?" he turns to his friends. "Come on, we'll show him what happens when he's outnumbered, you'll get it, vigilante!"
"Um... Dio, frankly I'd rather not mess with Senji... "
"Apparently he faced Kakashi-sensei, the strongest shinobi in Konoha, it's crazy to face him!"
"You bunch of..." Dio couldn't believe it.
"Dio." I call out to him, and he turns, on guard. "Are you having that much fun making Jojo's life hell? And now you're taking it out on those around him? Do you realize how pathetic that is?"
"Hmpf. As I said, I'll be the only one at the top, Jojo is just an obstacle I need to trample in order to move forward. And as soon as I've finished with him, it'll be your turn, I'll make you pay for the affront and humiliation I suffered the day I arrived, remember that." He turns back, snapping a branch from a bare tree. "That's enough! Let's go!"
At his words, the other two clueless men follow him limply, looking behind them. I crouch down in front of Erina, to see her reddened by the cold.
"Senji, shouldn't we call the police? This is serious what Dio just did there!" suggests Youta.
"No!" But Erina stops her immediately. "Please don't, or Jonathan will know!" She puts a hand on my shoulder. "Senji, you know how he'll react, I don't want him to get into trouble because of me... please..."
Remaining silent, I signal to Youta to put his phone away. Then I help Erina up and give her my coat to keep her warm.
"At least let us take you home." I suggest.
She nods weakly. She doesn't say a word the whole way, holding on to my arm. And when we arrive at her place, there's nothing I can do but let Erina go home, bewildered and shocked. But before she close the door, she stops and turns to us.
"Can I count on you? Don't tell Jojo, okay?" She asks, her voice trembling.
"Okay..." I can only nod, not knowing how to help her, followed by Youta.
Hearing our reply, she nods and closes the door, leaving us alone with Youta, and the sun setting on the horizon, giving that red color to the sky.
"Poor girl..." Youta sounds dejected. He really is a good person.
(How I could help her... love stories, I don't really know what they are... Why do I think of... Chiyo... weird.)
Volume 8 End.