UoDuh: Thanks for giving it a read.
RosyMiranto18: As with any System... it's just in their head lol, exclusive to their view only. Don't worry, his YP for mundane crap unless there's an exam. There will come a point where the missions will be ridiculous once the first substory is introduced. For Combat Styles... I'll keep it a secret for now. Gotta keep reading to find out. Bishop isn't exactly a lieutenant, but he will be relevant in Kress's life. The chaos and shenanigans Kress will be dragged into because of Renne. I totally forgot about the Daydream oof. Thanks for giving it a read!
Guest: Thanks.
Redburndragon: I forgot about Kloe, I'm ashamed. You right, you right. Guess the VPs of other academies aren't important lmao.
Leomitch: Thanks for saying so.
Fiction Fan 369: I'll do my best to finish this since I have plans up to Daybreak II at the moment. As for other girls in the harem, Renne and Agnes are the only confirm ones, but there might be a tease here and there.
Koncor the great: Thanks for checking the fic out. First off, the LGC system probably won't fit Kress due to the Yakuza being either Grey or Chaos already, but since what I'm going for is a mix of both, well, there's that. Reputation is essentially the karma you're talking about. You'll find out soon how it affects Kress's life. For your chapter 2 review, haha, a little awkward since this chapter basically starts off the prologue. If you mean Kress and Renne having a Tita and Agate-like relationship, that is a bit far off since they're close to age. But if you mean Renne pulling him into shenanigans, then it's probably close to Erika (Tita's mother) and Agate's relationship lmfao. Nah. Eight Leaves needs to keep it being special. Besides, Kress's whole theme is a young yakuza upstart. He's going to shake the criminal world.
Part 1 of the Chapter "A Spriggan" because holy crap I've written too much and it might be annoying to read a very long chapter (17k+ word), so i divided it for easier readability and not exhaust you wonderful readers.
FairnyNChevalier's Note: It was the first time I've written so much, even if I just added and rewrite scenes-
Anyways, enjoy.
Four months had passed since the Ronald Griffith incident.
Having been forced to be part of the Aramis Student Council by Renne, Kress's idle days of going to school and investigating the Hibiki Clan in his spare time were snatched away by his cruel president. Instead of heading straight home, Renne dragged him to their office, much to his annoyance.
Due to his position as the vice president of the council, his free time during the weekdays vanished in an instant.
He resigned to his fate after Agnes and Odette pleaded for him to stay. How could he resign when he had to witness the sad look on his juniors' faces?
Accepting his face, his school days were filled with homework, paperwork, and scolding idiots who broke the rules of the academy.
Speaking of idiots...
"Didn't I warn you idiots not to bring out your gravure magazines in the courtyard?" The transmigrator felt his head was going to explode once he saw two familiar delinquents by the benches, contraband in hand. "All right, boys. Are we going to do this the easy way or the hard way?"
"J-Just give it up, bro. I don't want to feel sore again!"
"S-Screw that! This is a limited-edition magazine! Like hell, I'm going to let that student council dog confiscate it!"
The one with fewer brains flipped the bird at Kress before running off with his magazine, making the transmigrator sigh as he cracked his knuckles.
"They sure love doing things the hard way."
-MISSION ADDED-
[Chase Time!]
Pursue the target and retrieve the 'contraband!'
Rewards: 50 Yakuza Points, Minor Reputation Increase
It was the third time he received the same quest this week. Kress wasn't sure whether to thank these idiotic delinquents or curse them.
He kicked his feet off the ground and sprinted. On-lookers could easily mistake the transmigrator as part of the Track Team because of how fast he was going. The delinquent glanced back, his face a mix of terror and desperation as he realized just how close Kress was getting.
"Get back here, you idiot! I've already confiscated your magazines twice this month!"
"You'll never catch me! This is mine!"
The delinquent stuck his tongue out as he dashed toward the campus fountain. Kress just rolled his eyes and shook his head. The so-called "limited-edition" magazine would be all too easy to confiscate if this guy continued to zigzag into dead ends.
Kress hated to admit it, but it was entertaining chasing after these idiots. His Yakuza System seemed to agree with him as the quest interference showed up again.
-MISSION CONDITION ADDED-
Add some flair to the chase! Use your environment creatively to catch the target!
Bonus Rewards: 25 Additional Yakuza Points, Additional Minor Reputation Increase
A smirk appeared on Kress's face, deciding to play along. He spotted a nearby trash can lid, smoothly swiping it before hurling the lid like a frisbee. It clanged and fell in front of the delinquent, nearly stumbling.
"W-Whoa!" Just as he regained his balance, a hand rested on his shoulder. "L-Let go!"
"Hand it over while I'm being nice, kid." The dyed blonde transmigrator gave him an unamused look.
"No way! I-I'll jump in the fountain if I have to! Want to get your uniform soaked, huh!?"
"I think you should rethink your threat." He shook his head, sighing. "You think your 'limited edition' magazine will really hold up after a dip in the water?"
"Ugh..."
The delinquent slumped his shoulders, his rebellious fire cooling off. Sighing, he finally handed over the magazine.
"Fine, take it...but one day, Kress, you'll understand!"
"I'm sure I won't." Taking the magazine, the transmigrator shot him a look. "Now get back to class before I write you up."
As he watched him head back to the main building, the familiar tune of the System brought a smile to his face.
-MISSION COMPLETE-
With the magazine tucked under his arm, he returned to the student council office.
"I'm back, Prez."
"Welcome back, Keisuke."
Odette, the brunette, looked up from her paperwork and beamed, "Good work out there, Vice-President!"
"You didn't rough him up, did you, Kress?" Albert, the glasses-wearing first year, gave him a suspicious look before yelping when Kress bopped his head with the magazine. "H-Hey!"
"He tried running away from me, but I caught him. He's probably catching his breath at most." The transmigrator tossed the magazine into the 'contraband' box, taking his seat with his arms crossed. "And come on, Albert! You already know I don't go around picking a fight with anyone I see! They're the ones who keep picking a fight with me!"
It was weird.
Ever since he became part of the student council, whenever he was walking around the capital or campus after school, some punks would come over and start a fight.
It was a good way to farm Yakuza Points, sure, but it was really annoying having to deal with them.
Every. Single. Day.
Albert sighed. "I-I know that, but when you do retaliate, they couldn't come to school the next day..."
"Honestly speaking, I'm more surprised you managed to beat them up with no visible injuries!" Odette added her opinion to the table, giggling.
"And that's another thing I'm curious about... How in the world do you do it!?"
The transmigrator shrugged and said three words.
"I just do."
"That doesn't answer the question!"
Technically, it was thanks to his Menacing Aura and his newest skill the Yakuza System granted him after upgrading his Thug Style to Rank 3.
Predator's Eye.
It was the perfect skill to compliment Menacing Aura. If the yakuza heir's opponents are even slightly affected by the latter, then Predator's Eye will allow him to see the exact spot that will do the most damage without leaving a visible mark if he uses his bare hands.
That was how the transmigrator managed to deal with the delinquents in school. Heh. He couldn't get in trouble if there was no proof, right?
"Keisuke is a man of many talents, it seems." Kress didn't like the twinkle in Renne's eyes. The purple-haired lady got up from her seat and waved a stack of papers. She smiled innocently. "And a talent for paperwork is one of them."
"Renne, I swear if you drop that pile—"
"Thank you for always supporting me, Vice President Hibiki~"
Renne dropped the pile of documents with an unapologetic smile before returning to her desk, ignoring the glare Kress sent her way. The transmigrator sighed and reluctantly started doing the paperwork. He knew he should have just done the bare minimum. Curse his attempt to be a diligent student!
The others resumed their work. As the stack of paperwork gradually decreased, the door creaked open. Agnes slowly stepped inside, her usual demeanor absent and her gaze dazed as though lost in thought.
"Agnes, there you are!" Odette called out, her warm tone laced with concern. "You're late. Is everything okay?"
The blonde girl blinked as if snapped from a trance, then smiled apologetically. "Oh, I'm so sorry! I got caught up in something. It won't happen again."
She offered a small bow before quickly moving to her desk. The others didn't look convinced.
"You sure?" Kress pressed, concerned. "You seemed off."
"I'm fine, really," Agnes replied, her voice steady but soft as she started flipping through her assigned paperwork.
Kress took the hint and dropped it. He did throw occasional glances at her out of concern, but he didn't press further. Whatever was bothering her wasn't something she was ready to talk about. Renne, too, seemed to notice but merely raised an eyebrow before returning to her work.
Odette and Albert were the first to finish their workload, excusing themselves first because they had errands to run. Although the transmigrator was still a bit concerned about Agnes's odd behavior, Kress was the next one to leave as he felt that the blonde wanted to talk to their president.
They were on good terms, sure. He even considered that the two of them were friends. But that wasn't enough of a reason to pry... unless her life was in literal danger.
She had her business, and he had his— one that he quickly needed to find some progress in.
Once he left, he pulled out his Xipha and dialed a number.
"Hikaru Aozaki, speaking."
"Hikaru. Has Dingo managed to find any information about the Hibiki Clan?"
"Ah, Young Master. Perfect timing. I was going to inform you about that while we head back home."
His lips trembled into a smile. Finally. "I take it he finally found a lead about their activities?"
"Yes. It's a very small lead, however." Kress frowned for a moment before quickly stomping his disappointment. Any lead was a good lead right now. "Apparently, the clan has been keeping things discreet regarding their activities to the public eye. It's quite the contrast from their usual work in the past.
"Gotcha. I'll be at the front gate soon. We'll continue then."
"As you wish, Young Master."
He hung up the call and left the building, walking to the gate. Hikaru was already there, standing with her usual poised demeanor.
She offered a slight bow as he approached. "Good evening, Young Master."
"Evening, Hikaru." He nodded. "Let's go. I want to hear everything Dingo found."
"Of course."
The two set off, leaving the campus as they began their walk back to their apartment. The pair kept their distance close to talk without any curious ears catching wind of their conversation.
"As I mentioned earlier, the lead is minor, but it could point us in the right direction," Hikaru began, keeping her gaze straight ahead. "It appears the Hibiki Clan had been keeping their activities under the radar since the start of the year. However, a recent business transaction between a merchant in the Blacklight District and a gangster from Messeldam related to the clan's activities was seen a few weeks ago. Dingo's source said that the merchant wore the Hibiki Clan crest.
"A gangster?" The merchant supposedly affiliated with his clan wasn't what caught Kress's attention. It was the gangster from Messeldam.
"Yes, specifically a member of the mafia organization— Almata. I'm afraid I do not know any information about them at the moment except they appear to be a dangerous mafia group."
His lips formed into a thin line. Why did the name sound familiar? Did he hear it from his past life? Or was it something from the original Keisuke Hibiki's memories?
He shook his head, eyebrows furrowed. "Is that all?"
Hikaru nodded. "Unfortunately, so. Dingo said that his source only managed to get that info by chance when they were lounging around the Blacklight District."
"Hikaru." Kress stopped walking, so Hikaru did the same, looking at the pondering expression of the transmigrator. "Contact Dingo. I'd like to speak to him. It doesn't matter how late in the evening as long as I meet him."
"Very well. I'll make the necessary arrangements."
They would eventually arrive back at their apartment. As they entered their unit, Hikaru began making preparations while Kress changed out of his uniform. He'd wear the last set of clothes he used back in the Blacklight District, slicking his hair back when he heard a knock on the door.
"I have contacted Dingo, Young Master." Hikaru's voice was heard from the other side. "He'll meet us at Beckson. May I assume you already know where that is?"
"Yup. The same place where we looked for someone who could get us dirt on Ronald's dad."
"Good." She showed her Xipha. "Dingo said we can meet him now. What would you like to do?"
Adjusting his jacket, Kress gave a nod. "We're heading out, of course. The sooner we get this over with, the better."
"Understood."
Upon arriving through the secret entrance Hikaru knew, the two wasted no time and went off to the gambling bar. On their way there, Kress glanced around, noticing a few fearful stares he was receiving. That confused him a bit.
This was only his second time going to the Blacklight District, and he hadn't even interacted with those who were staring at him. What could he have possibly done to receive the attention?
Just as he was pondering why, a few thugs blocked their way.
"Hey." The largest one stepped forward, staring the transmigrator down. "Are you the one who messed up Bishop's boys?"
"No," and Kress tried walking past them.
As expected, they wouldn't let him through.
"Think you can walk around Blacklight like you own the place just because you managed to take down those weaklings?" He growled, cracking his knuckles. "Know your place, kid!"
-MISSION ADDED-
[Street Fight Skirmish!]
Defeat these thugs!
Rewards: 20 Yakuza Points, Minor Reputation Increase
"Shall I deal with them swiftly, Young Master?" The assassin-caretaker frowned, her hands already slipping under her skirt to draw her weapon, only to stop when her master raised a hand. "Young Master?"
"No need to waste your energy on them, Hikaru. These guys are just like the others."
"What did you say—?!"
The thugs flinched as an oppressive force weighed them down. Kress sent a glare as his eyes glowed, Menacing Aura and Predator's Eyes activating.
Before they could overcome the momentary fear they felt, Kress moved and struck the weakest points of their body. Each strike targeted nerves and pressure points that sent jolts of pain through them without leaving even a single bruise.
"W-What the hell..." The largest thug gasped for air, dropping to his knees while holding onto his side.
The closest thug tried to retaliate with a punch, but Kress sidestepped easily, countering with a sharp jab to his shoulder that crippled his arm as he collapsed with an agonizing cry.
Clutching where they had been struck, the remaining thugs froze. They all gave each other a look and, one by one, quickly ran away while supporting their most injured comrades.
Kress exhaled, smiling as he saw the interface giving him his rewards. He'll have to check how many Yakuza Points he had accumulated later. He turned to Hikaru, who stood nearby, her expression as calm though a bit of surprise was in her pink eyes.
"Well done, Young Master," Hikaru said, her tone carrying a hint of approval. "I've seen you in action a few times whenever I walked you home. It seems you keep getting better at incapacitating them each time. Are you certain you are not training in secret?"
"The only training I've been doing was beating punks on a daily basis." He grumbled under his breath. "Even if I wanted to, I don't have the time because of the student council. That's why I left the investigation about the Hibiki clan to you."
"I have assumed that much, yes." She nodded. "I trust we can proceed without further interruptions?"
"Let's hope so... We should go. Dingo's waiting."
"No need, you two."
They turned around and saw a brown-skinned man with white hair, grinning as he walked over to the pair.
"Dingo Brad."
"Keisuke Hibiki." Dingo exchanged nods with the transmigrator. "I heard a commotion while waiting, but I didn't expect to see the young master of the Hibiki Clan in action tonight."
"I'm somewhat a magnet of trouble..." He rubbed his neck sheepishly.
"After what you've done to Bishop's hired men on top of earlier, I can imagine so." Dingo chuckled at the groan before he tilted his head in the direction of Beckson. "Let's go to Beckson. We can continue from there."
Nodding, the two followed the journalist to the bar, taking a seat at one of the free tables. A waitress came and served them a glass of water. Dingo took his, taking a sip before meeting their gaze.
"Can I assume you wanted to talk because you wanted to meet with my contact?"
Surprised for a moment, Kress nodded anyway. "Yeah. I wanted to formally ask him if he can do an investigation regarding the Hibiki Clan's affairs."
Dingo sipped his drink once more and said, "I apologize if I'm overstepping my bounds, but may I ask why?"
"Apparently, Hikaru and I have been cut off from using the Hibiki Clan's resources like their information network. We have no other contact from anyone else in the clan who can help us."
"Not even your own father?" The reporter raised a brow as Kress scowled.
"Especially not from him."
Kress doubted that someone who ostracized and abandoned his own son would respond if the transmigrator reached out. Hikaru couldn't even contact the people she knew from the clan, which made it perfectly clear to Kress of their positions were.
They were given enough mira to live their lives, but they were on their own. Abandoned.
And that was the reason why he was looking for answers.
It wasn't simply because of the Yakuza System's hint. It was a matter of satisfying the residual feelings of the original Keisuke Hibiki.
The white-haired man rubbed his chin as though pondering his decision.
"The rumors must be true then..." Dingo whispered to himself. He shook his head and returned his attention to Kress. "Okay, I'll tell you. Be warned, though. He doesn't just take a request just because you have the mira. It's his decision whether he accepts it or not."
The dyed blonde transmigrator frowned. That was troubling.
"He sounds quite cautious. I suppose that is to be expected from someone dealing with the underworld." Hikaru noted.
"Yeah..." The Hibiki Clan's young master nodded in agreement, frowning. "Now I'm not confident he'll even consider the request for an investigation."
Dingo scrutinized them for a bit before he spoke, "I say you should go for it despite that. You'll never know unless you try, after all."
"I guess."
A wry grin crept onto Kress's face. Dingo wasn't wrong. He might as well give it a shot.
The reporter smiled and handed him a business card. His brown eyes looked down, scanning the design.
Van Arkride
ARKRIDE Solutions Office
Only for Customers in Complicated Matters
Edith City 8th Borough 5-21-3-201
"For... Spriggan?" The dyed blonde repeated, eyeing the intricate design on top of the name Van Arkride.
"For Spriggan, also known as 4spg. It's his code for his services. Any requests taken by a Spriggan is called that." Dingo explained as he crossed his arms.
"A Spriggan... Of course!" Hikaru's usual blank face brightened, eyes widening in realization. "If anyone could investigate the Hibiki Clan successfully, it would be a Spriggan."
"I'm guessing I'm the only one who doesn't know what that is," Kress sighed and slumped his shoulders. "Care to explain?"
"A Spriggan is an underground profession, Young Master. They accept work from nearly any kind of client, including such requests that the Bracer Guild or the law cannot solve." Hikaru elucidated as the transmigrator felt his eyes almost leave his sockets. Such a profession existed? "They can be your detective, negotiator, and even bounty hunter. I heard that once they accept a job, they will accomplish it no matter what. That's why they are valued in the underworld."
Kress couldn't help but ask, "Why didn't you suggest contacting one before?"
The maid looked slightly sheepish, her blank and stoic mask breaking.
"I am ashamed to admit that I did not know how to reach them," Made sense. Hikaru may be more versed in the underworld than Kress, but she was still roughly the same age as him. Her eyes quickly narrowed, glaring at Dingo. "But it seems our resident reporter knew of them all along."
Unbothered by the icy glare, Dingo just smiled. "Of course, you wouldn't know. Unless you're already aware of how to make a request using his code or know the location of the office, you're out of luck. He likes it that way, too. That's also the reason why you wouldn't be able to contact him here. Keeps the scummier guys here from abusing his services."
"If he really does do all of the things you mentioned, then I can kinda see why there would be attempts to exploit his services." With criminals and other shady individuals in the underworld, it made sense to Kress why this Spriggan would make themselves difficult to contact.
Dingo nodded his head, confirming his assumptions. He'd check the time in his orbment and got up as the two followed suit.
"I believe that wraps up our business for tonight. Good luck."
"Yeah. Thanks for all your help, Dingo."
"You're welcome. I'm glad to be of help to you." Before he left, the reporter looked over his shoulder and added, "I'm feeling a little generous tonight. So here's a friendly tip to increase your odds of him accepting your request."
Kress immediately perked up. "What is it?"
Dingo flashed a grin. The transmigrator and maid prepared themselves, but they never would have expected his advice would be a single word.
"Sweets."
With classes finished early in the afternoon and student council work done, Kress was once again faced with his usual routine— punks on campus looking for trouble. As usual, the transmigrator dealt with them quickly with the combination of his two skills, either knocking them out or forcing them to run away with their bodies aching.
"Another day, another headache," Kress grumbled, adjusting his blazer.
As he made his way toward the Auber District, he recalled Dingo's advice.
'Sweets, huh?'
Kress couldn't help but scoff slightly. It sounded too simple, and he thought that the reporter was tripping him. Still, if it increased the odds of getting the Spriggan to accept his request, it was worth a shot.
He soon arrived at Andalucia, the local pastry shop— a popular one at that. Kress remembered a lot of students from Aramis heading over after school. It was always packed full of teenagers. Fortunately, the teen came right on time when it wasn't.
His eyes scanned the counter, landing on the display for the Late Summer Limited Edition Sweet— Andalcuia's Violette de Sollies Fig Tart.
There were only two left.
Perhaps the bribe would be more enticing if it was a limited-time dessert?
"I'll have that."
"May I please have the special tart?"
Kress blinked when he heard the familiar voice at his side. Turning his head, wide blue eyes stared back at him.
"Kress?"
"Agnes?" Kress raised an eyebrow. "What're you doing here?"
"I could ask you the same thing," The girl replied, her tone curious. "Are you here for the limited-time special tart as well?"
"Yeah. Guess we're both here for the same reason."
The shopkeeper approached, smiling. "Lucky you two! These are the last ones."
"I'll take one," Agnes said quickly.
"Same here," Kress added.
The shopkeeper nodded, packaging the desserts before handing them over. He noticed Agnes holding hers carefully, almost protectively.
The transmigrator snorted, "Planning to enjoy that yourself?"
"Actually… it's for someone. I have an errand to run in Old Town, and I thought it would make a good gift." An embarrassed smile appeared on her face.
Old Town? Kress narrowed his eyes for a second before his face softened. No, it couldn't be. She must have a friend there or something.
"Yeah? I've got some business there, too."
"Really?" Agnes tilted her head, curiosity evident. "It's rare to meet anyone going to that part of the city."
"I know, right? Makes me wonder why Miss Perfect has errands in that part of the capital." Kress smirked teasingly as Agnes's cheeks gained a blush, chuckling sheepishly. "Well, it's not any of my business. Later."
Despite his curiosity, Kress didn't press any further and took his leave first, failing to see the strange smile that Agnes gave him before she ran to his side.
"Let's head to the station together. We might as well since we're going to the same place."
Kress shrugged nonchalantly. "Sure."
The two made their way to the subway station. Boarding the same train, they found themselves sitting side by side as the carriage rattled along the tracks toward Vieux Quartier, also known as Old Town.
The ride was quiet at first, the two of them lost in their own thoughts. Finally, Agnes broke the silence.
"Thank you, by the way."
The dyed blonde glanced at her, confused. "For what?"
"For staying on the student council," Agnes replied, her eyes fixed on the paper bag of the tart on her lap. "I know you've been ignoring all sorts of rumors since you joined the student council. I know it hasn't been easy for you. But Odette, Albert, and I... we're glad you're there."
Kress blinked, momentarily taken aback. He hadn't expected that. The rising rumors were unavoidable because of his prior reputation as a menacing truant and delinquent, so he simply did his best to ignore the curious stares and the whispers about him. Was she thinking about him all this time?
Well," Kress said after a moment, scratching the back of his neck. "You three and Renne make it tolerable, even if she did force me to her vice-president. Just don't expect me to enjoy the paperwork."
Agnes giggled and smiled. "Fair enough."
Kress leaned back, Agnes's earlier words lingering in his mind. It stirred something he hadn't expected— appreciation.
For all the headaches the student council caused him, it seemed his presence there mattered more than he realized.
As they approached their stop, Kress glanced at Agnes out of the corner of his eye. She was staring out the window, the soft glow of the station lights reflecting in her eyes. Whatever business she had in Old Town, it was clear it was important to her.
As the train pulled into the station, Kress and Agnes disembarked together.
"Guess this is where we part ways," The transmigrator said, stretching.
She nodded, her smile never leaving. "Right. Good luck with your errand, Kress."
Kress watched Agnes head in the same direction he was going. He shrugged it off at first, figuring Old Town wasn't exactly sprawling. Coincidences were bound to happen. Still, as the narrow streets twisted and turned, they kept walking side by side.
"You're still heading this way...?"
"Yes. Are you... heading to Montmart?"
"If that's the place of 8th Borough 5-21-3-201, then yeah."
"Um... I think it is."
The two continued to walk beside each other. Agnes's blue eyes perked up when she spotted a fashionable sign above a building.
"What an adorable bistro this is. It has such a welcoming storefront."
Kress rubbed his chin and glanced at the set of stairs beside the establishment, muttering. "Might be above this bistro..."
"Oh! Are you two customers, perhaps?"
Their heads turned in the direction of the feminine voice. A beautiful woman with long rosy-pink hair and lime-green eyes, smiling kindly at the teenagers.
"It's still breakfast hours if you're interested." She glanced at the stairs. "Or is it the office upstairs you're here for?"
"That's right, Miss."
"Is this where—!" She turned sharply at her senior, eyes widening. "You're also here for Arkride Solutions, Kress?"
A wry smile grew on his face. "Yeah. I have business with him."
Ha... He thought it was just a coincidence they were both heading to Old Town, but Agnes essentially confirmed it herself.
"I-Is that so?"
"If that's the case, then he might still be upstairs in his office. He only just finished breakfast, actually." She giggled. "He might've gone to bed, though, so don't be shy about knocking a few times to get his attention."
The student council pair sweatdropped but nodded regardless. Giving the woman their thanks, they'd walk up the stairs, neither of them asking why the other would visit such a place. They stood in front of a door.
ARKRIDE Solutions Office
Complicated Matters Only
The two shared a look before Kress stepped forward, knocking on the door a few times. He heard some groaning from the other side, and then the sound of footsteps followed as the transmigrator backed away.
The door creaked open to reveal a man with black-blue hair and a pierced right ear. His blue eyes flickered between the two students, confusion settling in them.
"I get this one having a job for me," His gaze drifted from Kress to Agnes. "But you're not here for the same thing, are you?"
"I-I am!" She bowed as a greeting before straightening herself. The seriousness on her face was a surprise to the transmigrator. "I have something I'd really like your help with, so if you don't mind, sir..."
"I feel like I should be offended that you think I got a job for you because of how I look..." The dyed blonde groaned. Maybe he should fix his appearance soon...? "...But yeah. I do as well."
His gaze went back in forth between the two teenagers before he heaved a sigh, heading inside as he gestured the pair to follow him in.
They looked at one another, nodding triumphantly. The two would head inside the office as Kress closed the door once they were in.
The man with black-blue hair set down three mugs on a table and gestured the two to take their seat on the sofa. Once both were seated, he took a seat across from them.
"Y-You didn't need to go prepare us a drink, sir..." Agnes felt a little sheepish at the offered cup of tea.
"But thanks all the same." While Kress was more than happy to accept it.
The blonde girl looked between the man and her schoolmate before composing herself and smiling.
"First, I'd like to tell you a little about myself. My name is Agnes Claudel." Kress took the glance given by Agnes as his signal and nodded.
"And I'm Keisuke Hibiki. But you can just call me Kress." The dyed blonde didn't miss the recognition that flashed in the man's eyes.
"We currently attend a school in the Auber District—"
"Aramis Academy, yeah. Pretty famous school." The man finished with a knowing look. His eyes went back and forth between the two students. "Guessing you're a first-year," He gestured at Agnes with his mug before doing the same to Kress. "And you're a second year."
"Was it our uniforms that gave it away?" Kress raised a brow.
"Anybody who lives in Edith would recognize your uniform." He took a sip of his tea, amusement shining in his eyes. "Ms. Claudel has the looks of a grown woman, but my gut told me the way you carry yourself says it all. And Hibiki exudes the vibe of a troublemaking second-year."
"I-I beg your pardon?"
"Oi. What the hell?"
"I'm joking. Your ties indicate whether you're a first-year or second-year." His lips formed a faint smirk as he took another sip. "The name's Van. Van Arkride. Don't got a clue how you found out about me... but if you know the 4spg code, you two gotta know what work I do here, right?"
They nodded. Determination lit up in Agnes's face.
"You're a contractor people go to when they have a job they feel uncomfortable discussing with the police or the guild."
"But the kinds of jobs you take aren't just simply something clients are uncomfortable discussing with the law or the bracers." Kress calmly added, recalling what Hikaru had told him beforehand. He smiled calmly. "They're the kind that are dangerously close to being illegal, right, Spriggan?"
Agnes stared at Kress, completely caught by surprise by his knowledge regarding the profession. And in response, the transmigrator raised an eyebrow. He was considered a troublemaking delinquent while she was a model student. Who should really be the one who knew this kind of stuff?
"Exactly. Cops hate me for it," Van's eyes narrowed slightly. He crossed his arms as he sighed. "But whatever. Just gimme a rundown on what you want doin' for starters. I'll be the one to decide whether to take it on after that. You first, Ms. Claudel."
"T-Thank you. In that case..."
As Agnes brought out her Xipha, surprise appeared on Van's face.
"Holy shit. Do all new students get a Xipha these days. Those things are top of the line!"
Were they? Then again, Kress only saw a few students possessing one. He does faintly recall that Hikaru was the one who gave the original Keisuke Hibiki his Xipha.
"No... but, umm... you're not far off." Agnes chuckled sheepishly, showing the screen of her orbment. "Please take a look at this."
The picture on her screen showed what looked like an antique pocket watch. Van took the Xipha to get a closer look, eyes narrowing. It did look a little strange for it to simply be just a watch.
"This kinda resembles an orbment, actually..." Kress's eyes widened at Van's whisper. That was an orbment?!
Agnes nodded. "That is what I want your help with. I'd like your assistance in locating the old orbment in that image. It's a few decades old and a memento of a relative of mine— erm, my great-grandfather."
"Where did you get this image?"
"It was... well, it wasn't through an ordinary search engine, I'll say that." She shifted her gaze away guiltily before facing Van again. "Records indicate it was stolen from an antique shop in the city a week ago."
"I'm gonna assume you mean a special search app based on P4 protocol exploit... Not what I was expectin'..."
He handed the device to the blonde, crossing his arms.
"I'll give it to you straight: take this one to the cops or the guild." His words held a hint of finality.
"Huh...?"
"I don't know what kind of orbment this is, but it looks like it's got a whole lot of historical value. And you mentioned it was stolen. Likely some seedy folks're involved at this point." He shook his head with a half-smile. "'Sides, searching for a memento of a relative sounds like somethin' those suckers at the guild would eat right up."
He was right, Kress thought. Looking for lost items was something the Bracer Guild was good at. What would prompt Agnes to go so far as to come to a Spriggan to help her search for her great-grandfather's memento?
"S-So you say, but..." Her expression turned grim, her gaze falling onto her lap. "I can't. I just can't. I can't go to the police with this— and the guild is even more out of the question."
"If you say so," The Spriggan sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Oh, I guess I should've put out somethin' to eat with the tea, huh?"
Agnes perked up. "Oh! Speaking of food! Kress, let's take them out!"
"You got it."
The two students of Aramis brought out the paper bags containing the limited-time tart from the patisserie. Van's eyes grew as wide as physically possible.
"This is from a popular cakery near our dorm—"
"This is Andalucia's late summer limited-time edition! The specially made tart covered in violette de sollies figs from Ored and honey! And there's two of 'em!"
...Kress began to think that Dingo was right about his advice.
"You... are something of an expert, I see." Agnes sweatdropped.
"It's like his whole vibe changed..." The yakuza heir muttered. "Mind if I tell you my request later, Arkride?"
His words pulled the Spriggan back to reality as he cleared his throat.
"I don't mind. I'll store these beauts for later, then we'll head out."
Whistling a cheerful tune, Van took the bags to the kitchen. Meanwhile, Agnes turned to Kress, worry obvious on her face as she frowned.
"Um, Kress? Is it because I'm here? I can step out so you can tell Mr. Arkride your request if you'd like."
Her concerned and considerate words somehow pierced his heart. Now, he was feeling guilty after listening to Agnes's request while he wanted to keep things private as much as possible. He knew it was unfair and selfish, but he'd like to keep his yakuza heritage a secret for a little while longer.
An apologetic smile fell on Kress's face as he stroked her head, sending red to her cheeks.
"K-Kress?! What are you..."
"No need. I'm sorry, but mine is a bit dangerous. I'd rather you not know it at all. Hope you can forgive your pathetic senior this time, 'kay?"
Agnes blinked, her cheeks still dusted with red, but she managed a small, reassuring smile. "Pathetic, you say? Hardly. But if that's how you feel... I won't press. Just promise me you'll be careful, Kress."
"Promise," Kress replied with a wink, lowering his hand and stepping back.
He didn't miss the way her fingers brushed against her lap as if searching for words. It made him feel even guiltier about keeping her in the dark. But this wasn't something he could share—not yet. Maybe not ever.
"All right, sweets stored safely." Van returned, hands in his pockets. "Let's go. You're free to tag along, Hibiki, but I assume you've got places to be for now?"
"Who knows? I'll just come back after you're done with Agnes's request."
"I'm just going to make this clear. I'm not doing this 'cause I couldn't say no to that tart. Got it?" The Spriggan stated with deadly seriousness, causing the two to sweatdrop.
"Whatever you say."
Agnes gave a sheepish chuckle. "With the way you were looking at it earlier, I thought you would wolf it down right on the spot. I didn't expect you to treat it with such care as if it was your family heirloom."
"It's Andalucia!" Did Van think that answer was enough to be convincing...? "What kinda sick freak wouldn't save it for an end-of-the-day treat? Ohh. I'm so jealous you two live near that place... Must be nice bein' a student."
They sweatdropped again as the three of them left the office and went downstairs back to the streets of Old Town.
Feeling his orbment vibrate, Kress flipped his Xipha open to see a message from Hikaru. He turned to Agnes and smiled. "Hope you can find what you're looking for, Agnes. Don't forget to be careful, okay?"
"Thank you, Kress. I'll be careful." She gave him a warm smile, though there was still concern in her eyes. "And you too, alright?"
"You worry too much."
"You're my friend," Her eyes softened. "I'll always worry."
Chuckling, the transmigrator patted her shoulder and turned his heel, heading off toward the subway station with a wave, leaving Agnes and Van to their devices,
"A friend, huh?" The Spriggan crossed his arms, shooting the blonde a teasing grin. "Sounds like there's more to it, Ms. Claudel."
Her cheeks puffed in red as she waved her hands frantically. "I-It's true! There's nothing else going on between me and Kress! He's just our student council's vice president!"
"Wait, seriously?" Van's jaw dropped, surprised. "That guy's your vice president."
"Yes. Please don't judge him by his appearance, Mr. Arkride." Agnes frowned slightly. "Kress is diligent in his student council work."
"All right, all right. I'll take your word for it, Ms. Claudel." Van chuckled and held up his hands in mock surrender. "And Van's just fine."
"Then please just call me Agnes, Van."
Meanwhile, Kress stood on the subway platform, his Xipha still in hand as he re-read Hikaru's message.
[Hikaru]: Young Master, I found a lead about the recent transaction of the Hibiki Clan. It seemed that Bishop actually witnessed the transaction take place through one of his men. Would you like to meet at Blacklight?
The transmigrator felt a chuckle leave his throat, smiling wryly. "Didn't expect to head back to Blacklight so soon."
He didn't mind. If it meant closer to getting answers, Kress was more than willing to oblige.
He quickly typed out a response and immediately received a message from his caretaker.
[Hikaru]: I will be waiting for you, then. Please shake and turn the doorknob to the entrance at the Auber District a few times, then it will open.
He quirked a brow but sent a thumbs-up anyway.
Pocketing his orbment, his thoughts drifted back to his junior. Something about her request unsettled him.
It wasn't just the stolen orbment; it was also her hesitance to go to the guild or the police. There was clearly more to her story than she was telling. What that was, Kress had no idea.
Shaking his head, he decided not to let her circumstances occupy his mind. He had his own problem he needed to deal with right now.
The train pulled into the station. The doors slid open, and he stepped inside.