The preparations for Open Day were in full swing, and the students of Class 2-B were buzzing with activity, everyone contributing to ensure their attraction would stand out. Mei, feeling responsible as part of the group spearheading the Augury Tree exhibit, decided to check on Hoshizora. Though reluctant at times, he was still an integral part of their theme, and she wanted to make sure he was on board with everything.
As she made her way across the school courtyard, Mei spotted him under the now-famous Augury Tree. To her astonishment, Hoshizora wasn't in his usual casual attire. Instead, he wore an elaborate costume that made him look almost ethereal.
The outfit seemed inspired by folklore or mythology—a flowing dark gray and black cloak that billowed slightly in the breeze, embroidered with patterns that resembled feathers and swirling wind. A sleek mask resembling a crow's face rested on top of his head, and a long sash hung from his waist, giving him the appearance of a wandering spirit.
Mei couldn't help but let out a small laugh, covering her mouth in surprise. "Hoshizora-san… you're wearing a costume! Who managed to convince you into this?"
Hoshizora's eyes flickered toward her, his expression as deadpan as ever, though his tone carried a note of resigned irritation. "Blame the Photography Club. They've been badgering me since this whole Open Day nonsense started." He idly tossed a coin into the air, catching it with precision before flipping it again. "I'm letting them have their little victory, but they're sharing some of their 'spoils.' So, no, I'm not too annoyed."
Mei tilted her head, intrigued. "Spoils? Like what?"
Hoshizora grunted but didn't elaborate. Instead, her attention drifted to the coins he was flipping. They caught the sunlight briefly as they twirled midair before landing perfectly back in his palm. It took her a moment to notice that the coins weren't Japanese yen. The edges were dodecagonal, and the surface bore an unfamiliar, intricate design that looked almost ancient.
Curious, she gestured toward the coins. "Those aren't yen. What are they?"
Hoshizora paused mid-flip, catching the coin and rolling it between his fingers. For a brief moment, something flickered in his expression—nostalgia, maybe? His voice was quiet, almost reflective when he responded.
"They belonged to an old member of my family," he said simply.
Mei blinked. That was the first time he'd ever mentioned anything about his family or background. The way he said it made it clear he didn't want to elaborate, but the weight in his tone made her wonder about the story behind those coins.
Deciding not to press him further, she walked over to a small patch of grass near the tree and sat down. Several animals immediately approached her, clearly recognizing her by now. A sleek black cat she'd come to know as Dusk jumped into her lap, curling up as if it were the most natural thing in the world. A fox cautiously approached from the bushes, observing her with curious eyes before settling nearby.
Mei smiled, stroking Dusk's fur while glancing back at Hoshizora. He was leaning against the tree trunk, flipping his coin again, his attention seemingly divided between her and the activity happening elsewhere in the courtyard. "You're really good with these animals," she remarked. "It's almost like they see you as one of their own."
Hoshizora snorted, his lips twitching into a faint smirk. "Or maybe they just think I'm the best sucker around."
Mei chuckled, shaking her head. "I don't think that's it. They trust you. That's different."
She looked back at the animals around her, enjoying their quiet company as they waited for the rest of their class to arrive.
Open Day at Chiba Academy was a flurry of activity. Parents, siblings, alumni, and prospective students filled the halls and courtyards, wandering between classrooms transformed into themed attractions. Laughter and conversation filled the air as visitors marveled at the creativity on display.
Class 2-B's "Augury Tree and its Caretaker" exhibit was quickly becoming one of the most talked-about attractions. People were drawn to the mystique of the tree, its unusual animal inhabitants, and, of course, the enigmatic Hoshizora Akito, who had reluctantly agreed to participate as the exhibit's centerpiece.
The tree's base had been transformed into a viewing area, complete with signs bearing information about the various animals, written in both scientific and whimsical tones. Mei and Sayuri had worked tirelessly to ensure the information was accurate yet engaging, while Haruto and Airi's photos decorated the display boards, showcasing the Augury Tree and its residents in all their glory.
Hoshizora himself was seated under the tree, his costume adding an ethereal air to his usual reserved demeanor. Visitors gawked as he nonchalantly read a book, occasionally tossing one of his dodecagonal coins in the air. Around him, animals moved freely: crows perched on branches, a tanuki lounged nearby, and a few cats circled lazily, seemingly unfazed by the crowd.
"Are they trained?" one parent asked, gesturing toward a pair of foxes resting near the tree's roots.
"No," Hoshizora replied without looking up from his book. "They just live in the moment."
The simplicity of his answer only seemed to deepen the allure, and whispers of awe rippled through the visitors.
Haruto's parents were some of the more enthusiastic visitors to Open Day. His father, a jovial man in his forties, had a camera slung around his neck, while his mother examined every booth with a critical but kind eye.
"Haruto!" his mother called, waving him over. "You've been talking about this tree non-stop for weeks. Let's see what the fuss is about."
Haruto shuffled awkwardly as his parents approached the Augury Tree. His father snapped a photo of the tree's canopy. "Looks mystical," he remarked, leaning closer to inspect a small fox curled at the base of the trunk. "That real?"
"It's real, Dad," Haruto muttered. "Just… don't touch anything, okay? Hoshizora-san gets protective about them."
"Hoshizora-san?" His mother raised an eyebrow. "Is he the one sitting over there?" She gestured toward Hoshizora, who was seated in his usual spot, lazily flipping through a book.
"Y-yeah," Haruto admitted. "He, uh, kind of takes care of them."
His parents exchanged a look. "Seems like an interesting boy," his mother said thoughtfully. "Maybe we should introduce ourselves."
"No, no, no!" Haruto waved his hands frantically. "He's not exactly... social."
From his spot under the tree, Hoshizora glanced up briefly, as if sensing their attention. Haruto's father gave a thumbs-up. "He seems cool."
Mei had been designated as one of the "guides" for their exhibit, explaining the displays and occasionally answering questions about the animals. She had just finished guiding a group of parents through the exhibit when she noticed a crowd gathering around the tree.
At the center of it, Haruto was enthusiastically recounting the story of how Hoshizora had warned students about bothering the animals. "...And then the next day, the people who ignored his warning couldn't walk ten feet without stepping in—well, let's just say the animals got their revenge."
The crowd laughed, and Hoshizora sighed audibly, glancing at Haruto with a withering look. "I didn't do anything," he muttered, but Haruto continued unabated.
Mei approached the tree, hoping to diffuse the growing spectacle. She crouched down beside Hoshizora and whispered, "You doing okay?"
He glanced at her, his expression unreadable but his tone dry. "I'm fine. Though if I hear one more person ask if the crows are trained spies, I might actually leave."
Mei stifled a laugh. "Well, you are kind of a mystery. It's not every day someone has a whole ecosystem following them around."
"Lucky me," he deadpanned, flipping his coin again.
By the Sports Field, Haruto, taking a quick break to grab a snack, noticed two sets of tracks in the dirt—large paw prints, far bigger than any dog's. They crossed the field in a straight line, heading toward the Augury Tree.
Throughout the day, visitors approached cautiously, fascinated by the animals. Some tried to take photos, while others simply watched, mesmerized. At one point, a young child approached Hoshizora with wide eyes, clutching a small stuffed fox.
"Can I pet the foxes?" the child asked timidly, pointing to the real ones lounging under the tree.
Hoshizora raised an eyebrow, clearly about to refuse, when one of the foxes—an older, scruffy one named Rin—stood up, trotted over, and sat beside the child, tail wagging.
The child squealed in delight and patted Rin gently. Hoshizora watched the interaction with mild surprise, muttering under his breath, "Traitor."
Parents snapped pictures of the moment, and whispers spread quickly. "He's like an animal whisperer," someone said.
At the Courtyard Fountain, a parent and child sat near the fountain, enjoying a meal. The child dropped a piece of bread into the water, and a ripple spread outward. For a brief moment, the reflection in the fountain seemed to shift, showing two shadowy shapes that vanished as quickly as they appeared.
While Mei was helping set up more decorations near the tree, Minako wandered over, hands on her hips. "You've been spending a lot of time here," she said teasingly.
Mei paused, turning red. "I-it's not like that! I'm just helping out."
"Uh-huh." Minako smirked. "Helping out by sitting under a tree petting foxes?"
"Minako!" Mei groaned, her face heating further. She shot a glance toward Hoshizora, who was idly tossing his coin again. "It's not like he cares. Besides, you're the one who's always saying I need to 'broaden my horizons.'"
Minako laughed. "Touché. But still... he's kind of mysterious, isn't he? You ever wonder why all these animals like him so much?"
Mei hesitated. "Yeah," she admitted softly. "But I don't think he'd tell me even if I asked."
A small group of art students, easels in tow, arrived mid-afternoon to sketch the Augury Tree and its animals. They whispered excitedly about the 'haunting beauty' of the scene. One student, lost in concentration, suddenly gasped and clutched her pencil tightly. "Did anyone else see that?" she asked, her voice trembling. She pointed to the shadows under the tree, where she swore she'd seen a massive, hulking figure with glowing eyes. The others dismissed it as a trick of the light, but she remained visibly unsettled.
Sayuri's older brother, Riku, stopped by the Augury Tree while visiting his sister's class booth. "This is the famous tree you were talking about?" he asked, studying it with curiosity.
Sayuri nodded. "Yep. That's Hoshizora-san over there. He's the one who looks after all the animals."
Riku raised an eyebrow. "Seriously? He doesn't look like the type to care about anything, let alone a bunch of animals."
Sayuri bristled. "He's way cooler than he looks! And he's super smart too. You wouldn't get it."
"Alright, alright," Riku said, holding up his hands in mock surrender. "Just saying, it's a little weird, don't you think? Like, where did all these animals even come from?"
Sayuri crossed her arms. "Maybe they just know a good person when they see one."
The Photography Club had set up a small booth near the tree to showcase their work, but their attention frequently drifted to the animals. One ambitious member tried to get a shot of what he thought was a large black dog lurking near the edge of the courtyard. By the time he focused his camera, the creature had disappeared, leaving only rustling leaves in its wake.
Several parents gathered near the tree throughout the day, admiring its natural beauty and the strange assortment of animals lounging around it. One mother whispered to another, "Have you ever seen so many wild animals in one place? It's like something out of a fairy tale."
Her companion nodded. "My son said that boy over there is the reason they're here."
"Hoshizora-kun?" the first mother asked, peering at him. "He seems so quiet. Are you sure?"
"That's what I heard," the other replied. "Apparently, the animals just... listen to him. It's strange, isn't it?"
Not everyone was respectful, however. A group of rowdy teenagers from another school decided to test their luck, daring each other to touch one of the crows. One of them, a tall boy with a cocky grin, reached out toward Spectre, who was perched on a low branch.
Before his hand could make contact, a sharp caw echoed through the courtyard. Spectre spread her wings menacingly, and from somewhere above, a pair of larger crows swooped down, diving toward the boy. He yelped and stumbled back, his friends laughing nervously.
Hoshizora finally looked up from his book, his expression one of mild annoyance. "What did I say about bothering them?"
The boy stammered an apology before retreating, his friends pulling him away. Haruto and Sayuri, who had been filming nearby, gave each other knowing looks.
"Bet that video's going viral," Haruto muttered, grinning.
Near the Photography Club's Booth, Airi was organizing prints for sale when a sudden hush fell over the area. Several crows perched on the nearby rooftop fluttered nervously, and a faint rustling sound came from a cluster of trees beyond the booth. One of the club members whispered, "Does anyone else feel like we're being... watched?"
As the afternoon lull settled over the Open Day festivities, Hoshizora's presence at the Augury Tree remained magnetic. The occasional crow cawed from above, foxes darted in and out of sight, and a tanuki waddled near the base of the tree, inspecting scraps of food dropped by visitors. Mei, Haruto, and Airi hovered nearby, taking short breaks between their duties to steal glances at their mysterious classmate.
While sipping a canned drink Haruto had brought her, Mei leaned against the tree trunk, her gaze wandering over the animals. "You know, Hoshizora-san," she began, her voice light, "this might be the most lively the school's ever been. Even the animals look like they're enjoying themselves."
Hoshizora closed his book with a softthump, his eyes distant. "It's because they feel safe," he said. "But don't get too comfortable."
The sudden seriousness in his tone made Mei and the others blink in surprise. Airi tilted her head. "What do you mean?"
"They're not the only ones here," Hoshizora murmured, tossing his coin absently. He caught it and held it up between his fingers, letting it glint in the sunlight. "Captain and Lieutenant are watching. They've been around all day so have others."
The three exchanged wide-eyed looks.
"They're here?" Haruto said, half-whispering. "Like,here here?"
Hoshizora's mouth curved into the faintest smirk. "Somewhere." He leaned back against the tree, clearly unwilling to elaborate further.
Airi glanced nervously around the courtyard, trying to spot something unusual among the animals. "I don't see anything weird," she muttered.
Mei furrowed her brow. "Are they... dangerous?"
"Not unless you're stupid," Hoshizora replied dryly. "But don't expect them to be friendly, either."
One father, dressed in a crisp suit, approached Haruto's father near the tree. "Impressive, isn't it?" he said, gesturing to the canopy.
"Sure is," Haruto's father agreed. "Never seen anything like it."
"I wonder," the suited man continued, lowering his voice, "what kind of training goes into this. My daughter says Hoshizora-kun is the one who takes care of them. Do you think the school allows it?"
Haruto's father shrugged. "Does it matter? The kids love it, and the animals don't cause trouble."
"True," the man admitted, though his tone suggested he wasn't entirely convinced.
One of the biology teachers, Mr. Tanabe, stood near the tree with a group of parents, explaining its significance. "The Augury Tree has become something of a phenomenon," he said, his voice tinged with pride. "It's rare to see animals behave like this in a school environment. It's almost as if they're drawn to Hoshizora-kun."
A mother raised her hand tentatively. "Do you think he's trained them?"
Mr. Tanabe hesitated. "It's... possible. But there's something more to it, I think. The way they interact with him—it's like they trust him completely. It's fascinating, really."
Behind the Biology Building, a group of students gathered near a set of hedges, discussing their next stop on the Open Day tour. In the shadows, something moved—slowly, purposefully. One of the students thought they saw a flash of dark fur, but when they turned, there was nothing there.
As Open Day wound down, the atmosphere around the Augury Tree grew quieter, almost reverent. Parents and visitors trickled out, and students began cleaning up their booths. Hoshizora remained seated under the tree, his presence as still and steady as ever.
Mei joined him again, sitting cross-legged on the grass. She watched as the last of the animals returned to the tree, settling into their usual spots. "They really do trust you, don't they?" she said softly.
Hoshizora shrugged. "They know I won't let anything happen to them."
Mei hesitated, then asked, "And Captain and Lieutenant? Do they trust you too?"
Hoshizora didn't answer immediately. He stared into the fading light, his expression unreadable. Finally, he said, "Trust isn't the word I'd use."
Mei frowned, about to press further, but the sound of a low, rumbling growl cut her off. She turned her head sharply, but there was nothing there—just the rustle of leaves in the evening breeze.
Hoshizora stood, brushing off his pants. "Come on," he said, his tone lighter now. "It's getting late. You don't want to meet them after dark, especially Grim."
Mei shivered, unsure whether he was joking or not, but she followed him without protest.
As Open Day came to an end, the students of Class 2-B and members of the Photography Club gathered their things, congratulating each other on their success. Kaede was the first to pipe up.
"Alright, let's head over to the Augury Tree. We've earned a break," she said, stretching her arms above her head.
"I want to see if those foxes are still lounging near the roots," Airi added, camera slung around her neck.
Haruto grinned, clearly proud of how well their collaboration had gone. "Come on, let's see if Hoshizora's still in his spot. Maybe he'll let us get a group shot with the animals."
The group started toward the tree, chattering and laughing, but as they drew closer, they slowed to a halt. Voices could be heard from the shaded area beneath the branches, one of them unmistakably Hoshizora's.
"...Captain, Lieutenant. I told you to stay out of sight during the day," Hoshizora's voice carried, low but firm.
The group froze. Haruto's eyes widened as he whispered to Mei, "Did he just say 'Captain and Lieutenant'?!"
"Shh!" Kaede hissed, straining to hear.
"...Don't give me that look," Hoshizora continued, his tone softening slightly. "You know how these things go. Stick to the usual spots. No close calls, alright?"
The group exchanged wide-eyed glances, their curiosity mounting.
"Should we... go over there?" Minako whispered.
Before anyone could answer, Haruto took a bold step forward. "Hoshizora-san?"
Their classmate turned, looking completely unsurprised, a faint gleam of amusement visible even behind the crow mask he still wore. His book rested in one hand while his other flicked one of the mysterious coins he'd been toying with earlier.
"You just missed them," he said nonchalantly, his voice carrying a teasing lilt.
"Missed who?" Kaede demanded, looking around the clearing.
"Captain and Lieutenant," Hoshizora replied.
The group surged forward, their eyes scanning every shadow under the Augury Tree, but there was no sign of any strange creatures. The animals that typically lounged there—cats, foxes, crows—seemed unusually quiet, as though watching the humans with muted curiosity.
Haruto frowned. "Are you messing with us?"
Hoshizora shrugged, flipping his coin. "Believe whatever you like."
While the rest of the group spread out, grumbling about Hoshizora's puzzling behavior, Mei lingered near the tree's base. Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed something—two sets of eyes, gleaming faintly in the shadows.
The first pair glinted a sharp, golden hue from a low branch near the wall, watching the group with unblinking intensity. The second pair shimmered a deep crimson, hidden beneath the thick roots of the Augury Tree. They didn't move, but she felt their presence like a heavy weight in the air.
"Mei?" Minako whispered, tugging at her sleeve. "You see that, right?"
Mei nodded silently, her hand tightening around the bark of the tree.
When most of the group dispersed, content to call it a day, Mei hesitated. "Hoshizora-san," she asked softly, tilting her head toward him. "Are they... watching us?"
Hoshizora didn't look up from his book. "Always," he said. Then, after a brief pause, he added, "But you'll be fine. They're picky about who they mess with."
The words sent a shiver down her spine, but not in a bad way.
"You're sure about that?" she asked warily.
As though deciding to test her nerves further, Hoshizora added casually, "They haven't attacked any students in weeks."
Mei's eyes narrowed. "Was that a joke?"
Behind his crow mask, his face was unreadable, but something about the slight tilt of his head and the amused lilt in his tone made her think he was smirking.
"Maybe," he said at last, turning a page in his book.
Mei groaned, muttering under her breath, "You're impossible," before retreating to rejoin the others.
Haruto, still determined to spot something unusual, kept scanning the tree even as they walked away. "I know I saw something," he muttered. "We just weren't fast enough." Airi, meanwhile, snapped a quick photo of the tree's shadowy roots, muttering, "If I can catch even a hint of those two, this'll go viral."
A few curious students from other classes, who'd overheard snippets of the conversation, speculated wildly about what Hoshizora had meant by "Captain" and "Lieutenant." Theories ranged from secret pets to trained wild animals to supernatural guardians.
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting warm orange hues across the campus, the students of Class 2-B busied themselves with packing up their booth and decorations. The Augury Tree, its shadows growing long, remained a magnet for lingering visitors. Many had wandered over to take a final look at the famed "menagerie" of the tree and its baffling caretaker before heading home.
Hoshizora leaned against the trunk of the tree, arms crossed, silently observing the students as they worked. His animals lounged nearby, their energy seeming to ebb as the day wound down. Spectre perched on a low branch, her white-highlighted feathers glowing faintly in the fading light, while Scout and Vann preened themselves atop a discarded box of decorations.
"Alright, that's the last of the tables," Haruto called out, wiping sweat from his brow as he and Kiba stacked them on a cart.
"Did someone grab the leftover flyers?" Airi asked, looking around.
"They're in the box near the roots," Kaede replied, gesturing toward the tree.
Mei, who had been carefully folding tablecloths, glanced at Hoshizora and the animals. Despite the scattered chaos of packing up, none of the animals were causing mischief. She raised an eyebrow. "You're keeping them in line?"
Hoshizora tilted his head slightly in her direction, his usual impassive expression softening just enough to convey dry amusement. "I'd rather not deal with anyone accusing my 'mafia' of stealing school supplies. Again."
Hikaru snickered as she passed by with a box of props. "Smart choice."
As the last cart was wheeled away and the group began to disperse, Hoshizora lingered under the Augury Tree. One by one, the animals around him melted into the shadows, slipping away as quietly as they'd come. Spectre gave a sharp caw before taking off, Scout and Vann following close behind. The foxes and tanuki were nowhere to be seen, and even the ever-present cats seemed to have vanished into the growing twilight.
"Are you sure they're not going to steal anything?" Kiba asked, half-joking as he watched a crow circle overhead.
"They're done for the day," Hoshizora replied evenly, his gaze tracking the crow's flight. "Besides, I told them not to."
Mei rolled her eyes but couldn't suppress a smile. "And they actually listen to you?"
"Most of the time," he said with a shrug, flipping one of his strange coins between his fingers.
As the group began walking back toward the main gates, Haruto slowed his pace, falling into step beside Mei. The two of them glanced back at the Augury Tree, its dark silhouette looming against the amber sky.
It was then that they saw it.
Standing just beyond the base of the tree, partially hidden by the shadows, was a massive black dog. Its fur was so dark it seemed to absorb the light around it, making it hard to tell where the creature ended and the shadows began. Its size was enormous, almost too large to be real, with sharp, alert eyes that gleamed a faint red.
"Did you see—?" Haruto started, his voice dropping to a whisper.
Mei nodded, her breath hitching as the dog's gaze met hers for a split second before it turned and melted into the darkness of the tree's roots.
"Lieutenant," Hoshizora's voice cut through the moment, startling them. He was still walking ahead but had glanced back, clearly having noticed their reaction.
"You named that thing Lieutenant?" Haruto asked, his voice an octave higher than usual.
Hoshizora didn't stop walking, but his tone carried a faint trace of amusement. "Didn't name him. He's picky about who sees him. Lucky you."
Mei blinked, her heart still racing as she turned to follow Hoshizora. "That's lucky?" she muttered under her breath.
"You'll be fine," Hoshizora added, as though sensing her unease. "He's just watching."
Mei glanced back one last time. The Augury Tree stood quiet and empty now, its branches swaying gently in the evening breeze. She shook her head, trying to push away the lingering sense of being observed, and caught up with the others.
As the students dispersed, some chatting about the day's success, Haruto leaned closer to Mei. "So... Lieutenant. Do you think he's one of the guardians from that story we heard?"
"I don't know," Mei said honestly. She couldn't shake the image of the dog's piercing red eyes. "But whatever he is, I think Hoshizora was serious when he said they're picky."
"Do you think Captain's even bigger?" Haruto asked, half in awe, half in dread.
Mei didn't answer. She wasn't sure she wanted to know.
From a distance, hidden near the wall, two sets of more eyes watched as the students exited the campus. One pair gleamed gold, the other crimson, both unblinking and silent.
Hoshizora turned his head slightly, as though aware of their presence. A faint smile tugged at the corner of his mouth as he murmured, "Always watching."
The classroom of 2-B buzzed with the usual chatter as students packed their things for the break. Minako, standing by her desk, watched Hoshizora with a glint of determination in her eye. As he lazily flipped through a book, seemingly oblivious to the activity around him, she took a step forward.
"Uh, Minako-chan, what're you doing?" Sayuri asked, noticing her movement.
Ignoring her friend's inquiry, Minako reached out a hand toward Hoshizora's shoulder. Before her fingers could make contact, his hand shot up, catching her wrist with precision. He looked up at her, his usual droopy eyes narrowing slightly in confusion.
"What?" he asked flatly.
Minako, undeterred, met his gaze. "I just have a question."
"About?"
She tilted her head and smiled brightly. "Open Day was a total success, right?"
Kiba, who had been half-listening, frowned from his spot near the window. "Yeah, it was great. So?"
Minako folded her arms and shifted her gaze to the rest of the class. "So why didn't anything bad happen to Hoshizora-san? I mean, no offense, but aren't you, like, infamous for having horrible luck?"
The entire room froze mid-motion as the weight of her observation settled over them. Haruto, halfway through stuffing his books into his bag, stopped and glanced at Hoshizora. Airi adjusted her glasses, looking thoughtful. Sayuri furrowed her brows, replaying the events of Open Day in her head.
It was true. Nothing unusual had occurred near Hoshizora. No sudden disasters, weather changes, no surprise injuries, and no chaos tied to him. All eyes turned to him with varying levels of confusion and curiosity.
Hoshizora blinked, as though only now realizing this fact himself. "Ah," he said, leaning back in his chair. "That'd be the Ricochet or Slingshot effect."
Kaede raised an eyebrow. "...The what?"
He closed his book and set it aside, his tone taking on the air of someone explaining a particularly dull trivia fact. "It's something I call the Ricochet slash (/) Slingshot effect. Some days, I can kind of feel my luck, like it's a weight or a presence. On those days, it's present, bad—but it's manageable. Other days, I don't feel anything at all. That's when one of two things is happening."
"And what's that?" Mei asked hesitantly.
Hoshizora tapped the table lightly with his finger, his voice as matter-of-fact as ever. "Either it's one of those rare days where nothing bad happens to me. Yes, they exist. No, I don't care if you don't believe me."
Kaede tilted her head, looking skeptical. "Rest days? Like... the universe just forgets to mess with you?"
Hoshizora gave her a bland look. "Something like that. They're rare, random, and usually don't last longer than twenty-four hours. My last one happened before I transferred here, so, y'know, good luck seeing another."
Mei leaned forward. "And the other thing?"
His eyes darkened slightly as he leaned his chin on his palm. "That's the Ricochet slash Slingshot part. Basically, on days where I don't feel my luck, it's building up. It stacks on itself, gaining momentum, until it explodes. Ruins my day, my week... sometimes my month." He glanced around the room, his tone casual but with an edge of warning. "And if I'm really unlucky, it'll ruin things for everyone around me too."
The room went silent as his classmates processed this grim revelation. Some nervously glanced at each other, and a few instinctively leaned further away from him.
Sayuri forced a shaky smile. "B-but it could still just be a rest day, right? Those happen, don't they?"
Hoshizora raised an eyebrow at her. "Nah," he said, tone merciless. "Like I said, my last rest day was before I got here. Odds of another one are slim to none."
"Oh, great," Kiba muttered. "Now we're all doomed."
"Don't worry," Hoshizora added dryly. "At least I'm not near the coast this time. It hopefully won't be that bad."
The moment the words left his mouth, his expression shifted. A long, heavy silence filled the room as everyone stared at him, horrified.
"You didn't just say that," Haruto whispered.
Hoshizora groaned loudly, dragging a hand down his face before thudding his forehead against the desk. "I'm the worst person to tempt Murphy, and yet here we are."
The tension in the room broke as Kiba burst out laughing, followed by Kaede snickering behind her hand. Even Minako cracked a grin.
"I can't believe you of all people would jinx yourself like that," Sayuri said, exasperated.
Hoshizora, face still pressed against the desk, mumbled, "Get used to it. It's my specialty."
Mei, however, frowned. "So... what should we do? Should we be worried?"
He finally lifted his head, meeting her gaze with a faintly amused look. "Relax, Raiden-san. Whatever happens, happens. You'll probably be fine."
"Probably?" she repeated, unamused.
"Better odds than I have," he quipped, leaning back in his chair again.
The conversation eventually dissolved into nervous chatter, but Mei couldn't shake the feeling that Hoshizora's Ricochet/Slingshot theory wasn't just bad luck—it was a storm waiting to happen.
photo_club_high"Highlights from Open Day! Thanks to everyone who visited our booths. A mix of magic, mystery, and creative sparks across the campus! Swipe to see the most popular spots: The Augery Tree, Class 3-B's café, and Class 1-B's creation stall!"
Photo 1:Hoshizora under the Augery Tree, reading a book while animals lounge around him. A crow perched on his shoulder looks directly at the camera.
Photo 2:Class 3-B's café with Rui holding a tray of desserts, a warm smile on her face, and Ayaka and Sota taking orders.
Photo 3:Yuki from Class 1-B, standing proudly next to a wooden model of the school she crafted with her classmates, surrounded by other colorful sculptures.
Photo 4:A Photography Club booth near the main building, with Airi pointing out images to a couple. A picture in progress is displayed on a massive projector screen behind her.
Comments:
sweetfangs89:"That Augery Tree setup is unreal. The guy with the crow mask—Hoshizora, right?—looks like he walked out of a fantasy novel!"
milktoast101:"I went to the tree, and I swear I saw eyes in the branches! Tell me I wasn't imagining that?"
choco_drizzle88(Haruto):"You weren't imagining it. Captain likes to keep a close eye on everyone!"
ari_skyfall(Airi):"Lieutenant's more subtle, but if you felt something big watching you, it was probably him."
bake_me_away:"Class 3-B's café was super cozy! Their desserts were adorable. Rui-san's smile totally sold the whole experience!"
design_dreams:"The wooden sculptures from 1-B were AMAZING. The dragon statue? I need one for my desk!"
art_beyond_limits"Art inspired by Open Day! Special thanks to Class 1-B and their incredible sculpture booth, plus the Augery Tree and its ethereal vibe!"
Photo 1:A painting of the Augery Tree at sunset, the leaves glowing gold, and Hoshizora standing beneath it surrounded by animals. His crow mask is detailed with subtle, almost regal engravings.
Photo 2:A depiction of Class 1-B's dragon sculpture: a jade-green beast with glistening scales made from layered paint, emerging from a sea of red and orange flames.
Photo 3:A whimsical scene of Class 3-B's café, illustrated in pastel tones. Rui balances a tray of desserts with exaggerated elegance, while Ayaka and Sota are drawn in comically frantic poses as they juggle customer orders.
Comments:
light_fingers_art:"The detail on Hoshizora's mask! It looks like it's from another era."
dragon_scale_crafter:"1-B's dragon statue deserves a whole exhibit. Who knew freshmen could make something that cool?"
café_junkie:"3-B captured the essence of a bustling coffee shop perfectly, down to the chaos in the background!"
animal_whispers"Guess who visited the Augery Tree during Open Day? These are just some of the incredible animals that call it home. Swipe to see the stars of the day!"
Photo 1:A cat lounging on a tree branch, its eyes almost glowing in the sunlight.
Photo 2:A squirrel clutching a tiny acorn, sitting on Hoshizora's shoulder while he reads.
Photo 3:A black shadow in the background of the tree—just faintly visible as a massive dog-like shape with glowing eyes.
Comments:
nature_fanatic99:"Is that a dog? How big is that thing?"
haruto_the_best(Haruto):"Meet Lieutenant. Don't let his size scare you; he's super protective of the tree!"
ari_skyfall(Airi):"Captain and Lieutenant keep the peace. Just don't mess with the tree, and you're fine."
ghostspotter23:"That shadow doesn't even look real. Is it part of the Open Day decorations?"
legend_maker:"Rumor has it those two are guardians summoned by Hoshizora. Makes sense—he's got that mysterious vibe!"
business_baron42: "Speaking of personality, who else visited the Augery Tree? That boy in the crow mask, Hoshizora, has an interesting way about him. I'm not sure what to make of it."
traditionalist_sakura22: "Hoshizora? The one surrounded by animals? He's definitely a curious one. My son tried asking him a question, and the boy just gave some cryptic, roundabout answer. Honestly, it's maddening."
oldschool_rules59: "Cryptic? That's putting it lightly. I heard him tell someone they needed to 'ask the squirrels' for directions. What kind of answer is that?!"
3B_Café_Life"Open Day Success! Thanks for all the love at our café. Who else tried Ayaka's famous cream puffs?"
Photo 1:A tray of cream puffs dusted with powdered sugar, arranged in the shape of a smiley face.
Photo 2:Sota holding a massive stack of empty plates, looking exhausted but victorious.
Photo 3:A candid of Rui chatting with a customer, her light brown hair catching the afternoon sun.
Comments:
sweet_tooth_heaven:"Those cream puffs were heaven. I came back for thirds!"
balance_master_sota(Sota):"I'm officially retiring from dish duty for the rest of the year."
pastry_queen_ruu(Rui):"Ayaka's the real MVP. Next time, we're doubling the batch!"
student_life_updates"Open Day Moments: From Class 1-B's creative corner to the Augery Tree's magical atmosphere, here are our top five highlights!"
Photo 1:Yuki and Akimitsu posing with 1-B's dragon sculpture, Chika photobombing them with a peace sign.
Photo 2:A wide shot of the Photography Club's main booth, showcasing a massive digital display of their best images.
Photo 3:A mysterious photo of the Augery Tree at dusk, with glowing eyes faintly visible in the shadows.
Photo 4:Class 3-B's bustling café, customers lining up out the door.
Photo 5:Hoshizora, mid-yawn under the Augery Tree, surrounded by animals and clearly unimpressed with the commotion around him.
Comments:
tree_lover123:"The Augery Tree at night is something else. Those glowing eyes gave me chills!"
kitchen_chaos_ayaka(Ayaka):"3-B's café forever! Though I don't think Sota's recovered yet. "
mystery_fan_haru(Haruto):"The guardians of the Augery Tree are real, folks. Believe it."
skeptic_but_intrigued:"I want to meet these 'guardians.' Where do I sign up?"
ari_skyfall(Airi):"Careful what you wish for. Captain and Lieutenant only show up when they want to!"
parental_perspective_88:"I'll say this—Chiba Academy knows how to host an event. From the performances to the clubs, it was an impressive display of talent and discipline. It's clear these kids are getting more than just academics here."
executive_mama85:"True, but did anyone else think Class 3-B's café was just a tad chaotic? Their desserts were delightful, though."
cultural_connoisseur77:"Agreed, but the chaos was part of the charm. It's nice to see these kids aren't all robots. They have personality!"
Comment Thread: Superstitions and the Augery Tree
wealth_and_wisdom72:"The Augery Tree itself was remarkable. It felt… ancient. Almost like it didn't belong on a school campus."
parental_perspective_88:"There's definitely something mystical about it. The kids seem enamored by it too. My daughter said it's a 'safe space' for them."
cultural_connoisseur77:"I'm all for respecting nature, but the stories about that tree and its 'guardians'? Aren't we supposed to be moving past superstitions in this day and age?"
traditionalist_sakura22:"Perhaps, but superstition isn't all bad. It teaches respect for what we don't understand. That boy, Hoshizora, clearly has his way of maintaining harmony there."
executive_mama85:"Harmony, or authority? The animals seem to obey him in a way that's… unsettling. Did anyone else notice how quiet the area got when he walked around?"
business_baron42:"My son said the crows around the tree 'watch people.' Honestly, it feels like they're part of some elaborate prank. Or maybe Hoshizora really does have 'guardians.'"
Comment Thread: Parent's PoV
parental_perspective_88:"The kids here are certainly talented. Class 1-B's sculpture booth had me genuinely impressed. That dragon? Museum quality!"
executive_mama85:"It's true. My son spent far too much time there admiring their creations. He even said he wanted to try sculpting now."
traditionalist_sakura22:"That's wonderful to hear! It's rare for kids to find inspiration like this in schools. Chiba Academy fosters a unique environment."
business_baron42:"I agree, but it's clear that some students stand out more than others. My daughter mentioned Class 2-B was the 'most interesting' group. Something about their bond and how they work together."
wealth_and_wisdom72:"2-B? Isn't that Hoshizora's class? It makes sense—they've got the tree as their base of operations."
cultural_connoisseur77:"It's not just the tree; it's their energy. They're creative but grounded. I heard one of the girls, Minako, gave a moving explanation of why their Open Day event was themed around nature and harmony."
Post: * fifty/fiftyfails (Hoshizora)"Open Day's over. The tree and I survived. The animals are owed extra snacks for tolerating the noise. As for me, 50/50 I'll sleep for the next three days or deal with something stupid tomorrow. (It's always stupid.)"
Comments:
ari_skyfall(Airi):"How many acorns are 'extra' snacks? Asking for the squirrels."
haruto_the_best(Haruto):"Define 'something stupid.' Last time, it involved a raccoon stealing a kid's phone."
ghosthunter247:"Survived? You make it sound like you were in a battle. "
mystery_fan_haru(Haruto):"In a way, he was. The 'guardians' were definitely watching over the battlefield!"
milktoast101:"Speaking of, was that a dog under the tree or some kind of illusion? It was massive!"
fifty/fiftyfails (Hoshizora):"Dog? Illusion? Both? You decide."
traditionalist_sakura22:"See? This is what I mean about never-straight answers."
Comment Thread: Parental Breakdowns
executive_mama85:"That girl from 3-B, Rui, has natural leadership. She kept the café running smoothly and made everyone feel welcome."
parental_perspective_88:"I noticed that too. Ayaka and Sota are lucky to have her as their class representative. And Sota's determination to keep up with orders? Adorable."
cultural_connoisseur77:"I was impressed with Yuki from 1-B as well. She's got a quiet confidence that's rare in someone her age. Chika and Akimitsu balance her out with their enthusiasm."
wealth_and_wisdom72:"It's nice to see different personalities coming together to create something special. I hope they learn from each other."
business_baron42:"Haruto and Airi, from the Photography Club, are worth keeping an eye on too. Their ability to capture the Augery Tree's atmosphere is unparalleled. They're bound for great things."
executive_mama85:"Indeed, though I wonder if they're too caught up in those tree rumors. My son said they're the main source of Hoshizora's 'mythical guardian' legend!"
Post: Official Chiba Academy ( Chiba_Academy)"Thank you to all students, parents, and visitors for making this year's Open Day a tremendous success! From the artistic creations of Class 1-B to the elegant café of Class 3-B and the nature showcase by 2-B and the Augery Tree, each of you brought something remarkable to life. A special shoutout to the Photography Club for documenting the day and providing beautiful memories for us all. Let's continue to support our students as they grow and achieve their dreams! #ChibaOpenDay #StudentExcellence #CommunityFirst"
Comments:
executive_mama85:"A great event, as always! Chiba Academy proves why it's among the best in the region."
business_baron42:"Looking forward to seeing how the students build on this experience. The standards just keep rising!"
mystery_fan_haru(Haruto):"Our tree showcase stole the show, admit it."
chika_sky_sculpt(Chika from 1-B):"Excuse you, our dragon statue says otherwise."
rui_3bcrown(Rui from 3-B):"No offense, but people lined up for hours to visit our café. Art and nature are nice, but hospitality wins every time."
mei_takesflight(Mei):"Keep telling yourself that, Rui. The Augery Tree and the animals were the stars of Open Day."
sota_mathking(Sota from 3-B):"Okay, but can we talk about how Hoshizora-san looked like the grim reaper with that mask and all those crows around him? Intimidating much?"
fifty/fiftyfails (Hoshizora):"Next year I'll bring a scythe for authenticity."
Post: RaidenCo Official ( RaidenCo)"Our team at RaidenCo was honored to attend Chiba Academy's Open Day this year. The creativity, dedication, and teamwork displayed by the students were truly inspiring. Special recognition to the Augery Tree showcase for highlighting the balance between tradition and modernity. To the next generation of leaders, innovators, and creators—keep striving for greatness!"
Comments:
business_baron42:"Glad to see RaidenCo supporting young talent! My daughter's class was thrilled by the corporate presence."
yuki_arts(Yuki from 1-B):"'Balance between tradition and modernity'? Are they talking about the tree or Hoshizora-san?"
ari_skyfall(Airi):"Probably both. He does look like an old-world grim reaper with a modern twist."
haruto_the_best(Haruto):"A modern twist? You mean the part where he's the reluctant mafia boss of squirrels and crows?"
rui_3bcrown(Rui):"Whatever, he's all theatrics. Let's not forget who really ran Open Day this year—Class 3-B."
mei_takesflight(Mei):"Rui, keep dreaming."
Comment Threads on The Kid at the Tree
Post by: momento_mystique"Does anyone else think the boy from 2-B (Hoshizora, I think?) gave off major grim reaper vibes? Between the crow mask, the dark costume, and all the crows and other 'bad omen' animals, I half-expected him to announce someone's doom. "
Comments:
ari_skyfall(Airi):"Don't tempt him. His luck is terrifying enough without supernatural assistance."
haruto_the_best(Haruto):"The 'bad omen animals' are actually quite nice. Just don't annoy him or the animals, or you might find bird poop on all your belongings."
ghosthunter247:"I heard he doesn't even need to sic the animals on people. His 'guardians' do it for him."
milktoast101:"Guardians? Is this a cryptid thing?!"
fifty/fiftyfails (Hoshizora):"Not a cryptid. Just efficient."
traditionalist_sakura22:"You say that, but I saw two pairs of glowing eyes near the tree that day. Care to explain?"
fifty/fiftyfails (Hoshizora):"Nope."
ari_skyfall(Airi):"Classic."
Post by: urbanlegends_live"Okay, Chiba Academy. What's up with that tree and its resident cryptid (aka Hoshizora)? I swear I saw a massive dog lurking in the shadows, and someone else mentioned glowing eyes near the wall. Are we sure this is just a high school?"
Comments:
yuki_arts(Yuki):"It's just a high school. With… extracurricular mysteries."
haruto_the_best(Haruto):"You saw nothing. But if you did see something, it's definitely because of Hoshizora-san. (He has mythical guardians, after all.)"
fifty/fiftyfails (Hoshizora):"Haruto, stop encouraging them."
mystery_fan_haru:"Too late. The legend grows."
chika_sky_sculpt(Chika):"Is this a good or bad thing for the school's reputation?"
VacationtimePlease(Sota):"I'd say a little bit of column A, little bit of column B"
Parent Commentary on Superstitions and Hoshizora
executive_mama85:"The superstitions surrounding the tree are fascinating. My grandmother used to say that places like this often attract unusual people or energies. Perhaps Hoshizora is a 'keeper of the balance,' so to speak."
business_baron42:"Balance or not, the boy is an enigma. My daughter couldn't get a straight answer from him all day. It's like talking to a Zen riddle."
traditionalist_sakura22:"My son's convinced the animals are spies. Are we encouraging critical thinking or paranoia here?"
parental_perspective_88:"I think it's wonderful that the school lets the students explore nature and folklore. As long as the boy doesn't bring a scythe next year, it's harmless fun."