TRIGGER WARNING: Suicide talks (Just putting this here just in case.)

Author's Note: I just read the latest JJK chapter. And...wow. I understand how you guys felt about Takeru. Like...dude...

Reviews:

Tigracho: I'm going to respond to the last part of your review first since it's the easiest. She didn't exactly say that, but she said "You're running away...?". Upon thinking about it, she concluded that Hajime probably felt guilty for doing the "same" thing Akira did. This is especially enforced because Hajime throughout the story tells her he won't leave her alone, even more so when they're a couple. Hell, Hajime stuck around (he was forced to) to say because he didn't want her fighting alone.

Yeah, Kuroiwa is that bro. Kind of like Takeru. They're both there when you need them. And speaking of Takeru, right, Chris is hellbent on taking Allister's head. But then again, Yosuke and Tsubasa are also in line. Allister's made a list of enemies already. Chris didn't even let Shadow Ouja let out a word before obliterating him. She understands Takeru wouldn't want to see her that way, and even if he were there, he would cheer her up. She has his ring, so he will always be with her. All she had to do is get Magnugiga back. You're right, Yosuke has a good point. Terunosuke himself fought the Nephilim and nearly died. He knows full well even if he had been a Rider back then, nothing would have changed. The same thing would have happened. But Jades feels guilty. This is why he's avoiding trying to kill him.

I think Miku would want Hibiki to be spared of that pain, especially since she's fully aware of how much pain Hibiki has been through already. I'll add a chapter about her later on in the series. Possibly around XV since it seems more fitting. But yeah, Miku also feels guilty she couldn't reach Hazuki. She believes she could have changed things if her words worked. So seeing Hibiki's words not reach Hajime, makes her feel worried that she'll have her heart broken too. But Hibiki is not going to give up. She wants to see Hajime again.

Hajime and Setsuna are both the biggest victims here, Hajime even more so since he feels like he had their fates in their hands and he couldn't save them. So Setsuna is trying he hardest to be there for him since she understands his pain. She is smiling despite her pain to assure her brother everything will be fine. You make a great point here. Right, Hajime might just be trying to lie to himself thinking he could have done something. I mean, a lot of people were putting their trust in him at the time, so he believed it was his duty to answer them. And despite that, he couldn't. And even if he destroyed that Bragard, that wasn't the real one. But him realizing this or admitting it would just mean that the whole fight was already decided the moment he walked in. And that they were destined to die. I love how much you love the drama in this story, so I always try to spice things up when possible. And I'm glad you're liking it. It makes me feel proud as an author. Yeah, at the end of the day, all of them are kids except like 2 of them. And they're just constantly being thrown into fights. Maybe that's why Hazuki wants what he wants. The reason he wants to make a new world.

Guest: Esta pelea seria brutal. Lastimosamente, seria en desventaja para los Disasters. Ya que Allister no esta en condiciones de luchar y Chiaki esta en Okinawa. Asi que solo serian Hazuki y Terunosuke. Pero seria muy interesante

Guest(Spitfire377): Everyone will miss Takeru. Farewell, brave soldier. You will not be forgotten.

Akira: Yeah, they're equally as strong as their counterparts. So the Riders will have to break past their limits to beat them. Shadow Ryuki is still in construction due to his complexity. He'll be a step above the others. I'm happy you're liking Bragi. Yeah, he's a nice kid when he's not being overly prideful. Elfnein tries to keep him in line when he still has Bragard's blood flowing through his veins.

Lord Ri The Hushbu King: Honestly, I like the bromance too. One of my readers pointed this out to me, but there is a line that could be taken out of context when Allister fights Takeru.

"You are mine, Takeru! I will claim you as my prize!"

I know there are stories where people ship enemies, so I wouldn't be surprised if people ship Takeru and Allister lol. Right, Miku is speaking from experience. She had her heart broken by Hazuki, and she doesn't want the same to happen to Hibiki. Chris is sad, but she is hanging there. She will unleash her rage when she sees Allister again. Shirabe likes Bragi, but Bragi is dense. I don't blame him. He was born out of a tube, after all. And I don't think Elfnein is the best at giving love advice. Speaking of Abyss debut...you'll be getting that very soon. I'm also excited for it. We saw what Damian can do, it's time to see what Hamaguchi can do. Oh, okay. Yeah, my bad. I was thinking that too. Honestly, you got me thinking. I'll probably write a precurexkamen rider story after this. Of course, more cheery than this. Precure is actually too damn cheerful for anything like Ryuki to be incorporated.

Cyclonerider: I'm glad to see you're so invested in the story. I try my hardest to make sure you guys are always entertained and left speculating. We have a lot of mysteries and plotlines going on. And I make sure to write them down because it's not easy writing these many characters, let me tell you. I was worried I would screw up but I'm happy to see a lot of people are enjoying it. Honestly, dude, feel free to review as much as you want. I love it when I get people's insights and theories. If you look up, you'll see Tigracho's long review and those are my favorites. I love to see what people are thinking and their opinions. So don't hold back and feel free to review as you wish. I'll be ready.

Tenzalucard123: Jades gave all of his love to his siblings. I don't see Terunosuke doing the same thing unless it's Serena. Cagliostro and Maria keep fighting because Cagliostro wants to take Jades, but we know Maria will not let that happen. Instead of making weapons like his father, Bragi creates things like coffee pots and small machines. And he feels guilty about what Bragard did to Garie and Damian, so he made that model for Tobias. The Alchemists have a new target: the Disasters. We'll see what happens.

primenidus: We'll see...That's all I'll say.

Chapter 88
Living in Pain or Peaceful Death

Once more, Hajime found himself standing in the middle of a black void, surrounded by Chao, his grandmother, and his uncle. All of them had their eyes darkened and just stared at him from a distance.

'Stop...Stop looking at me like that..." Hajime collapsed to his knees, trying to ignore their judgemental stares. But it was impossible. It was as if they were staring directly into his soul."I'm sorry...I'm so sorry! I tried...I really tried..."

"And yet, you didn't save any of them. You are a failure."

Bragard appeared in front of him once more, wielding the DNA sword he had used against him during their final struggle. He leveled it to Hajime's neck."A failure and nothing more. And after all the boasting your father did. It's a shame. But like any good failure, you must be discarded!"

"FUCK YOU!" Hajime swung his fist, punching the air and nearly falling off the pier had Kuroiwa not caught him by the collar of his shirt.

"Woah! Jesus Christ!" Hamaguchi exclaimed, throwing Hajime onto the deck."You scared the hell out of me."

"What...?"

"Oh, shit! This is a big one!" Hamaguchi suddenly began railing in his fishing pole, pulling on it hard until he got a big fish out of the ocean."Damn! This is a big boy!"

Hajime yelped when the fish landed next to him, flapping around as it struggled to break free.

"You alright?" Hamaguchi extended his hand.

"Uh...yeah. Just...another nightmare." Hajime grabbed his hand as he helped him up.

"Huh. Yeah, you're making some good progress, my man."

"What do you mean?" Hajime blinked, puzzled."I just...keep relapsing into them...I don't know if I'm getting better at all."

"You started fighting back recently." Hamaguchi set his fishing pole down, tossing the fish inside their cooler and grabbing a slice of pizza."These past 2 days, you've been fighting back. Like just now. It's like you're subconsciously fighting off your fears in your mind. Before, you would just scream and wail. But now, you're defending yourself. And soon enough, you'll force your nightmares on the defensive."

"So...I'm getting better?" Hajime asked carefully.

"Seems like you are to me." Hamaguchi winked at him."At least, you're not having those nightmares as much. So trust me, you'll get back on your feet in no time. I told you fishing clears the mind. And with my pizza, you'll keep your stomach full. Not a bad deal, huh?"

"Oh...Right..."

"Let's eat." Hamaguchi took a seat on the wooden deck, reaching for the second cooler and tossing Hajime a can of juice."Honestly, with all this shit going on, I needed this."

"I can't say I don't remember it being this rough." Hajime grabbed his own slice, taking a small bite out of it."It's really good..."

"Told ya." He chuckled, taking a sip from his drink."But yeah. Kagura-nee-sama and Seiko have always been like cats and dogs. They just don't get along at all. You remember all those times you would come over to my house and they would bicker with each other?"

"It made for pretty weird sleepovers, I'll tell you that." Hajime shuddered at the memory.

"Hahaha! Right?! You remember when they were arguing over who left those panties lying in the kitchen?! Man, that was so bad. I think the whole apartment complex heard that one."

"They never found out it was you?"

"Nah. It's not my fault they left them in the bathroom!" Hamaguchi clicked his tongue."I was a kid back then. It traumatized me. So I just left them in the kitchen. I'll probably take that secret to the grave."

"Though, now that they're both adults..."

"Yeah...It's different." The bluenette rubbed the bridge of his nose."They're not just being petty. They're actually going for each other's throats. It's ridiculous. I know none of us are related by blood, but they're still my sisters. Even though Kagura-nee-sama abandoned us, I still love her...And I can't be the middleman in all of this. Aunt Chisa is keeping out of this as well."

"I suspect it's harder for her, right?" Hajime hummed."She's the mother figure. And Kagura-san is her actual daughter, so it can't be easy. Still, why is your sister here? I thought she had left because she wasn't going to be the one to inherit the restaurant."

"I thought so too, but she's keeping quiet about it." Hamaguchi sighed, clearly distressed about the situation."All I know is that she's here on vacation for two weeks. So she's going to be around for when the festival comes. It's going to be pretty awkward, I'll tell you that. Good thing Aunt Chisa is letting her stay in her room and we don't have to move you guys around."

"Right. And I appreciate that. Thank you."

"No problem. You're my friend." He chuckled, crossing his legs."Man, I sure miss Tokyo though. When it's not constantly being attacked. Did they ever rebuild Kaiser Academy?"

"No." Hajime sighed."They didn't. The school had a lot of bad reputation. Gai was going around killing people even during his high school days. So they allowed us to stay in Lydian."

"Really?! Man, you guys are lucky. I bet you see all types of cute girls there, huh? Doesn't Lydian have a pool? Do you guys get to see them in their swimsuits?!" Hamaguchi's cheeks flared, blood dripping down his nose as he imagined the buffet of females in his mind."What kind of swimsuit does Kirika wear other than the one she wore here?!"

"Not exactly..." Hajime sweatdropped, shutting his perverted ideas down."They have their own time and males aren't allowed anywhere near them."

"Aw, man. What a shame." Hamaguchi groaned, throwing his head back.

"Why is that a big deal? Don't you see plenty of girls in their swimsuits at the beach?"

"Yeah, but the school swimsuits are different. They're just appealing in a way. And I want to see Kirika wearing one..."

"When did you become such a pervert?" Hajime sighed in exasperation."It happened out of nowhere."

"Dude, it's all part of growing up. Even before I moved here, I was still enjoying the girls around me. They're all just so damn sexy. And Kirika-chan is like a dream come true. But don't even get me started on Yukine-chan's big boobs or Maria-san's. Sheez, it's like a buffet of babes in this group."

"I'm sure if any of the guys heard you say that, you'd be dead."

"I know. And I know I have to be faithful to Kirika. But we're not dating. Obviously, when we are, I won't look at other girls the same. She'll be my one and only. It's just...I learned we have so much in common. Both of us were orphans at some point in our lives and don't remember anything from our past. We don't even know our own birthdays. I guess. I understand her and she understands me. I used to think I was weird for not remembering my own birthday, but she seems like it doesn't bother her. Or maybe it does and she just hides it. At any rate, she's very sweet and hyper. The kind of girl that can put up with me. Don't you think?"

"I suppose you are a very high-maintenance kind of guy," Hajime said, earning a groan from his best friend.

"Hey." Hamaguchi protested, making the raven-haired to have a ghost of a smile.

He was happy to see that smile returning to his face. It wasn't like before, but it was getting there. He just hoped that he was doing a good job.

The boys continued their fishing until it got late, and they packed their things up and went home.

"So, the festival is in two days, huh?" Hajime asked, watching as the streets were becoming more decorated as the days went by.

"Yup. And Seiko already picked up Setsuna-chan's yukata." He grinned."It'll be so much fun. I have never been part of this celebration, but I heard they're pretty awesome. We can eat as much as we want and visit many stalls and stuff. It'll be fun!"

"I'm looking forward to it," Hajime admitted, keeping his expressionless face. Once they were about to reach the restaurant, a familiar face.

"Hey! Kotaro, my man!" Hamaguchi clapped him up, grinning from ear to ear."What's up, dude? I haven't seen you in a while."

"I've been busy working in my new job." Kotaro replied, scratching his cheek."After that whole mystery cocktail incident, I got fired. But it's not a big deal. I managed to get a job at the postal office. So it's all good. By the way, what's up with your sister? She's arguing with that office-looking beauty in there."

"Oh, shit..." Hamaguchi paled, running past him with Hajime close behind. They opened the door, and they were met with the sound of two female voices yelling at each other as they worked, serving the customers who were entertained by the spectacle.

"Why are you putting so much salt in this, Seiko?" Kagura asked, carrying a tray full of bowls of ramen as she skated around the area with skate shoes she was wearing."It's ruining the texture."

"Because the recipe you're suggesting is too bland." Seiko hissed, cutting vegetables rapidly."It needs more flavor. Kind of like you, you simple-minded woman."

"And you're one to talk, you eccentric clown."

"My God, would you two stop arguing already?!" Chisa exclaimed, busy washing the dishes in the back. It was rush hour, and things were just beginning to escalate.

"Uh..." Both boys could only stare in shock at the scene.

"You're back!" Setsuna, who was taking orders, rushed to meet them."It's been a hectic day. These two just keep fighting with each other. I'm surprised they haven't gone physical."

"Some families are complicated..." Hamaguchi rubbed his temples.

"That's true. We know that for a fact." The brunette smiled sadly, her mind trailing off to Chao-Xing."Anyway, would you mind helping us? We need the extra pair of hands."

"Ah...but you two are our guests..."

"It's fine." Hajime shrugged."I don't mind helping. Just tell me what to do."

The group began to work in unison, with Hajime and Kuroiwa cutting up the fish, Seiko preparing the noodles, Setsuna taking orders, Chisa washing the dishes and Kagura serving the food and drinks. After the clock struck 11, they were dead tired from the busy night and sat around the restaurant after closing for the night.

"We sold a lot today, didn't we? Is it because we're getting close to the festival?" Setsuna asked, receiving a chuckle from the bluenette across her.

"Nah, they just saw my two sisters arguing and thought this was a catfight." He waved his hand dismisivally."Seiko has a lot of potential suitors, and don't even get me started on Kagura-nee-sama."

"If only they found out about her rotten personality." Seiko spat in disdain.

"Seiko..." Chisa frowned, but Kagura was not going to let her off with that remark.

"And what of you? Of your poor habits? You can barely cook, barely clean, can't even do laundry properly." Kagura stared daggers at her."This place was upside down before I got here."

"Oh and why are you here then?!" Seiko threw her arms up."Do enlighten us!"

"I was invited."

Seiko blinked before whipping her head toward Chisa."You did?"

"I always invite her to come over." Chisa replied calmly."I was surprised that she actually accepted my invitation."

"Aunt Chisa, she left us. She abandoned us and deserted our family." Seiko groaned, pulling at her hair."You were there that day. She never calls, she never visits, nothing. She doesn't give a shit about us."

"Clearly, you have no idea what you're babbling about." Kagura addressed her cooly."You can't even take care of yourself, how do you expect to take care of the restaurant? Or Hamaguchi. He dropped out of school and you just left him?!"

"Uh..."

"Oh, don't you bring him into this." She seethed."You never cared about him. Or me! Just because we're not blood-related!"

"Right. You're both adopted. And I'm the legitimate daughter. Ergo, the restaurant should have belonged to me. But none of that matters now." Kagura pushed up her glasses further up her nose, shifting her gaze to the Adachis."I apologize for having you witness our family affairs. Though it's nothing now, unfortunately."

"Ah, it's...yeah, it's normal." Setsuna chuckled awkwardly."So, how is life treating you, Kagura-san?"

"It's okay, I suppose. I am a supervisor in training at my company." Kagura said, trailing her finger around the rim of her cup."I came here because I haven't used my vacation time off this year. And I remembered I was invited to the festival. I came here to check the place out when they first moved but never came back since."

"So you're just here for the festival, then?" Hamaguchi slowly asked his elder sister.

"I am." Kagura nodded."So don't worry. I won't stick around for long. I have my life now and you have yours. So don't worry. These little fights won't last."

With that, the oldest sister excuses herself from the table, retreating to her room. Seiki huffed, deciding to start cleaning things before she went to bed and the others followed suit.

"Festival time! Festival time!" Setsuna sang, running around the house as she wore her yukata.

"Setsuna! We're waiting for you!" Hajime called out for his sister. He and Hamaguchi were wearing their regular clothes.

"Coming!" The youngest Adachi ran downstairs into the restaurant area."See you later, Seiko-san! Kagura-san! Are you going to join us at the shrine later?"

"When we close," Seiko reassured her with a wink.

"Hamaguchi, I expect you to bring me some carrot cake for letting you goof off and leaving us here," Kagura said with a stern tone, sending chills down her brother's spine.

"O-of course, Kagura-nee-sama..." He sweatdropped.

"You don't have to do anything you don't want to," Seiko stated, glaring daggers at the dark-haired woman.

'Here we go again.' All three teenagers deadpanned.

"Enough! It's too early to bicker!" Chisa screamed from the kitchen."Get going, you three! We'll close at 8 and join you at the shrine!"

With her permission, the trio exited the restaurant into the busy streets of Okinawa. People were already having a good time, despite it being only 5 p.m. There were plenty of stands and people playing music. They ventured into the streets, taking in the sights and admiring the beautiful decorations in people's houses.

"It's going to be a day we'll never forget, I can promise you that." Hamaguchi grinned from ear to ear.

"How would you know?" Setsuna asked, marveling at the sight of a band marching down the streets, playing their instruments."This is your first festival too."

"Call it a hunch." Hamaguchi rubbed his chin in a cool manner."I'll have you know, Setsuna-chan, I have a sixth sense for these kinds of things. Today is going to be awesome. I saved all my money just for this."

"What about that date you promised to Kirika-chan?"

"Ah, don't worry. I have my methods..."

"You mean you'll take her to McDonald's and order from the value menu, right?"

"I-I mean, nothing wrong with being humble..." He stammered, chuckling."Just kidding. Relax, I have a lot of money saved up. I'll probably take her to a fancy restaurant or something."

"Mmmm. I don't think Kirika-chan really cares where she eats, as long as the food is good and there's lots of it."

"Is that so? Man, you're like an encyclopedia on Kirika, aren't you, Setsuna-chan?"

"Kirika-chan and Shirabe-chan are my best friends!" The girl beamed."I know a lot about them!"

"Do you think you can convince Shirabe-chan to let me dress her up in a cute dress?"

"What's up with you and the dress?!" Setsuna pouted, planting her fists on her hips."Are you trying to involve her in some kind of perverted fantasy?!"

"N-no! She just looks like a porcelain doll, that's all!" Hamaguchi raised his hands defensively."Y-you see, Kagura-nee-sama and Seiko would always force me to play with them. And...eventually, I started liking dolls. Among other things..."

"Other things?"

"He's into Magical Girls," Hajime said.

"Oh! Like Precure?! And Madoka Magica?!"

"Yes." Hamaguchi admitted."Nothing wrong with that, right? I mean...I just find it cute and all..."

"It's okay. Nothing wrong with a boy liking girlsh stuff." She patted him on the back.

"I think Takeru-san likes Madoka Magica too." Hajime said."I think he likes...the blonde girl. I forgot her name."

"Yeah, Mami Tomoe." He nodded."She was taken from us too early. I can see why that's his favorite though. Being a gun user and all. Anyway, you guys wanna eat something? There's plenty of stands to choose from?"

"Oh! I want some ice cream! And some cotton candy!" She ran over to the stands, dragging Hajime with her."Hurry, Haji! I smell something delicious! Maybe they have caramel apples!"

Hajime took out his wallet, sweatdropping upon imagining how much money he was going to spend on her.

And spent he did. As they hit up all the stands and walked around, Hajime's wallet was thinner than it originally was. And Setsuna's belly was bigger as well.

"Ah, I'm stuffed!" She sighed, rubbing her tummy as her stomach bulged through her yukata.

"And most of my money is gone...At least my cash..."

"Yeah, see, this is why I love being the younger brother sometimes." Hamaguchi grinned, enjoying a cone of ice cream."Sorry, Hajime. Rules are rules."

"Yeah, yeah..." Hajime grumbled under his breath.

"Oh, no! I have to use the bathroom!" Setsuna squealed, holding her belly.

"Use one of the portable-"

"No! I can't use a public toilet!"

"Then just run back to the restaurant." Hamaguchi sweatdropped, his words falling on deaf ears as the girl sprinted down the road."So she would rather run home than use a public bathroom?"

"She's terrified of them." Hajime told him."She went to the bathroom when we were kids and someone didn't lock the door and...well..."

"Ah. Yeah, that happened to me." Hamaguchi shuddered at the memory."Asshole even invited me in. What a freak. Hey, want me to get you a drink?"

"Sure..." Hajime nodded.

Hajime watched as his best friend got lost in the crowd. He was alone with his thoughts. That's all he did when he was alone. Replay that day. Maybe that's why he still had nightmares of it. He was desperately thinking of something...anything...anything he could have done differently to win. What was he lacking to defeat Bragard? To save his family? Was it training? Was it power? He didn't know. He tried replaying that battle in his head so many times, and no matter what, he couldn't think of something.

'Were they...destined to die...?'

Of course. Hajime's breathing was becoming erratic. Even if he did destroy Bragard, that wasn't even the real one. It was just a clone. And if the army had come out, what was he going to do? Go berserk? He wasn't in control. He saw the state of the city. They would have died as collateral.

'Was there...nothing...nothing I could have done...? Could I really not have saved them...?'

"Grandma!"

Hajime gasped, his gaze shifting to a couple of kids dragging their grandmother along.

"Easy, now." The grandmother chuckled.

"Thank you. For loving me and being the people I can call friends. Family...Because I love you too, Hajime...little brother. I believe in you..."

"Chao...Uncle Huan..."

"I'm grateful I even got to be with them. I love you both. You're like my own children."

"Grandma..."

Hajime was hyperventilating as he ran down the streets, clenching his heart.

"Hey, I got the drinks!" Hamaguchi pushed his way through some people."I got you iced tea and-Huh?"

Hajime was gone.

"So, you have to work today, huh?" Chiaki hummed, walking around town with Amber, pretending to be someone else."That's like so lame."

"I know, I know..." Amber's shoulders slumped."But it's just for a few hours. We're closing early today. I'm sorry. I really wanted to show you around, Chika-san..."

"Oh, trust me. We'll have plenty of time for that." Chiaki cryptically said, smiling upon noticing Amber's lack of awareness."I'm not one to rush, honestly. I like to take my time with things. Enjoy the moment."

"You do seem like the kind of person who loves to live in the present." Amber pointed out.

"And you'd be correct. You see, I am afraid, Amber-chan." Chiaki played around with a strand of hair."I'm afraid of time. Of not being able to do the things I want to do. To make a lasting difference. For all of eternity."

"That's a big goal." Amber hummed in thought."Although, I do see why you're afraid of that. It's scary to think what would happen to us a hundred years from now."

"Right?! What's the point of living if you're just going to be forgotten!"

"I don't think that's right." Amber adopted a thoughtful expression."I think living life to the fullest is essential. I mean, would it really be okay with living all of your life, worrying about the future? And if you're too busy worrying about that, wouldn't it be better to try to make a difference in your way? Make your life fulfilling. We only get one shot at it. Unless you believe in reincarnation. But...What's also important is leaving behind a legacy."

"Legacy...?"

"I think about it sometimes." Amber smiled at the yellow-eyed girl."I wonder what my ancestors were like. What they did, what they dreamed of. But I know they did everything they wanted and more. Because I'm here. The point I'm trying to make is that our families have already left a lasting impact. Their names are not forgotten, because we have their blood coursing through our veins. I'm sure that in the future, we'll have our own families. And continue the cycle of...life...? Chika-san...?"

Chiaki's eyes were completely dilated, her face so close to Amber she had become uncomfortable. The murderous aura coming off her made the hairs on the back of her neck stand up.

"I have to go." Chiaki muttered, taking a step back, her eyes still fixated on the other girl."I'll see you later today. Let's have some fun."

"R-right..." Amber stammered, watching as the girl waved at her and walked down the road."Oh, right. Have you guys ever had any Noise attacks here? I think I should know the location of the nearest bunker in case something happens."

"This is nice." Hibiki sat next to Hajime on a bench in the park, watching the sunset."You were right. This is a nice place."

"Isn't it?" Hajime wrapped his arm around her frame, bringing her close to him."I knew I had to bring you here. I used to come here a lot when I was a kid and just take in the sunset and relax. Like I said, I was a pretty rowdy kid. So usually I would be beat up and stuff. But now? I can bring my loving girlfriend with me."

"Aw, Hajime~!" She mewled, nussling against his neck."I love you, Sunny."

"I love you too, Sunshine." Hajime kissed her forehead, leaning back on the bench."Our birthdays are in a few months from now. We're turning 17. Honestly, I'm still surprised you're older than me. Not that I mind. But sometimes...I think that we're just a few years from finishing high school and then we're off to college."

Dragging his feet into the forest, Hajime carried a chair in his hand and a bag in the other, his eyes vacant and lost as he got lost inside the trees.

"Don't remind me!" Hibiki whined."I can't imagine all the studying I'll have to do!"

"And what do you want to do?"

"Mmmm...Honestly, I was thinking of just opening up a store or something. Or a restaurant" Hibiki shrugged."It's what my grandma used to do. Maybe like a small shop of sorts. What about you?"

"I haven't thought about it, to be honest." Hajime trailed off, glancing at the orange sky."I don't really know what I want to do. I mean, fighting is all I know. So...I don't know. Is it okay that I don't know?"

"I don't think so." She beamed, tenderly grabbing his hand."It's not a competition. That kind of stuff is something you should take your time with. But if you don't decide, you can always run the store with me."

"We can make it a family store." Hajime perked up at the idea.

Hajime set the chair underneath a tree branch, standing on top of it as he reached for his bag.

"Really?! That'd be wonderful! We can own our little store and just work together!" Hibiki beamed, imagining their future together."What will we call it...?"

"Well, I hope by then we will be married..." Hajime blushed, chuckling."But..."

"Hibiki Adachi. I love how that sounds." She chirped, pecking him on the lips."I really love you, Hajime. I'm so happy to be with you."

"Me too, Sunshine. Me too. You're the best thing that ever happened to me. And I promise, we'll always be together."

"You mean it?" Hibiki's eyes sparkled in glee.

"You're a failure."

"You left her."

"You let them die."

"You weren't strong enough."

"Nothing but a fraud."

"Ran away like a coward. Tail tugged between your legs."

"And she's all alone now."

"You broke her heart."

"You're a horrible person that deserves to die."

"An insignificant brat that will amount to nothing."

"No one needs you."

"No one loves you."

"No one will miss you."

"Of course. Forever. I will always be here for you."

Hajime stared at the grass, the noose tied around his neck and wrapped tightly around the branch above him, tears slowly streaming down his face. He kicked the chair underneath him, and the weight of his body abruptly pulled him down, the noose tightening around his neck and blocking any air from getting through. He immediately started struggling, his survival instincts kicking it as he tried to untie the noose from his neck. His legs kicked around, hoping to touch something, anything, that could help him in his predicament. He was choking, struggling to get even a bit of air.

"HAJIME!"

Hamaguchi rushed toward him, grabbing his legs and lifting him up, easing the pressure on his neck and allowing him easier access to breathing. The bluenette, reached for his pocket, accidentally cutting himself with his pocket knife, and handed it to Hajime."Cut the rope!"

Struggling to reach the knife, Hajime slashed his palm but held onto the knife and began cutting through the rope, blood trickling down his hand until the rope finally gave up. Both of them collapsed on the ground, panting for air. Hajime removed the noose from his neck, wincing upon feeling the burning sensation around his neck.

"You...You...Were you actually..." Hamaguchi sat up, looking at him with a bewildered look.

"I'm sorry..." Hajime gasped, crawling away as he apologized profusely."I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I...I didn't...I don't know what came over me, I-"

"Look, it's...it's not fine." Hamaguchi sighed, looking at the cut in his hand."It's not fine at all. If I hadn't come here looking for you...you'd be dead, Hajime."

"I'm sorry...I'm so sorry...I'm so sorry..." Hajime sobbed, bowing on the ground."I'm so sorry...I'm so weak...I'm so pathetic...I'm just a poor excuse of a person. I'm worthless...I'm just a burden to you. To everyone..."

"Hajime. I'm not mad. Look at me, Hajime."

Hamaguchi crawled over to him, sitting next to him and pulling his head against his chest."It's okay. I'm not mad. I...should have expected something like this could happen. Forgive me for not looking after you properly."

"No...No, Hamaguchi, you..."

"And I get it. You feel hopeless, right? Like nothing will ever get better?" Hamaguchi rubbed the back of his head soothing with his good hand."I get it. And I'm not upset. I'm not going to shame you for trying to kill yourself. You're like a brother to me. I love you. I could never do that to you. And...I know you won't do it again, but if you ever happen to get those thoughts in your head...I want you to look at this."

Hamaguchi pulled out his phone, leaving Hajime looking at him before he felt his phone buzz. It was a message from Hamaguchi. A picture. A picture of Setsuna and Amber, both of them in their yukatas standing together and smiling.

"That little girl is smiling for you." Hamaguchi's lips curved to form a smile."She smiles to make you smile. She's been very brave for you. Her smile has the power of a thousand Kamen Riders if you ask me. You once said she's the only thing you have. Well, think about it. You're the only thing she has. So imagine how she would feel if you killed yourself. How I would feel. I want you to promise me something, Hajime."

Hajime stared at his friend's eyes, who had a solemn expression on his face."Every time you feel like giving up or you feel like things will never get better, I want you to look at that picture. And remember who is waiting for you. Remember what you fought for. And I guarantee you, you will realize the value of your own life. Do it for her. For her smile. So she can have her brother once again."

With that, Hamaguchi stood up, taking a deep breath."Anyway...Let's pretend this didn't happen, okay? I know how to keep a secret. Just promise me, okay? That you'll think about Setsuna-chan next time these thoughts come into your head."

"I promise..." Hajime muttered, looking at the cut in his hand."I...I miss Hibiki so much..."

"Hmmm?"

"God, I miss her so much...I know she deserves someone better than me but my heart...I don't think it can take it...I love her, Hamaguchi...And every day I'm apart from her...it hurts me..."

"I know. I know. I know you said that stuff to her to make her forget you. But she could never forget you." His friend helped him up, wrapping his arm around his shoulder."And she loves you too. So let's do our best to help you get better so you can see her again, yeah?"

"Yeah...Yeah, that...sounds okay...Thank you..."

"Of course. You're my brother. And...I'd be sad too, if you died. You're very important to me." He reassured him, embracing him in a hug."Let's get ourselves cleaned up first."

"Hamaguchi...Thank you...for looking after me..." Hajime cried silently.

"Of course. Anything for you, brother. Oh, and one more thing. Promise me that you'll come to the doctor with me." He said, stopping for a moment."I can only do so much. I really think you need to speak with a professional. Please, Hajime. If you mean it when you say you won't try something like this again, then promise me. Promise me you'll go to a psychiatrist."

"I promise..." Hajime slowly nodded."I'll do it..."

"So...can you watch over him while I run some errands?" Hamaguchi asked the short-haired girl dressed in her maid outfit."I know you guys are busy and all, but..."

"It's fine." Amber shook her head."We're closing in an hour so we can enjoy the festival. But I can keep an eye on him. Did..something happen? Your hand is..."

"It's complicated." He glanced over his shoulder, staring at Hajime as he examined the menu in front of him."Setsuna-chan is back at the restaurant I think. I'll come with her when I'm done, alright? Then we can all hang out together."

"Sounds like a lovely idea, Kuroiwa-kun." Amber smiled, bowing slightly."I'll watch over him."

"Thank you." Hamaguchi nodded, waving at Hajime."I'll be back! Order anything you want! I'll pay!"

With that, Hamaguchi exited the cafe, rushing down the street.

"So, Adachi-san, can I get you anything?" Amber asked politely.

"Just...a chocolate shake is fine..."

"Are you okay?"

Hajime glanced down at his phone, looking at Setsuna's picture."Yeah...Yeah, I am..."

"I'm happy to hear it." Amber nodded."I'll get you your shake right away."

The amber-eyed boy watched as the girl disappeared into the kitchen and proceeded to stare at the table again. His neck was aching, no doubt from the pressure applied to it.

'I...I can't believe I tried to kill myself like that...I...what was I thinking...? Am I really so hopeless...?'

Suddenly, he heard someone sit in front of him. His eyes looked up, only to be met with the twisted smile of a familiar lilac-haired girl."Boo! I found you, Hajimekun~!"

Hajime opened his mouth, but Chiaki brought up her Relic, placing her finger against her lips."Shhh. Easy now. You don't want to cause a scene here, do you? It's a busy day today and many people are eating here today. Friends, families, and more. It'd be a shame if you caused...a scene."

It was a threat. The whole restaurant was being held hostage. Hajime glanced around, noticing the many children in the area, playing with the maids."Okay...Okay...I won't do anything..."

"Good boy." Chiaki smiled, pleased with his obedience."I see you failed to kill yourself."

"Huh...? How did you-"

"That bruise around your neck is visible, you know?" Chiaki pointed at his neck. Hajime froze, instinctively pulling up the zipper of his jacket."I wonder how many people saw it. I wonder...just how many know you tried to take your own life. But...I also know because I recognize that look in your eyes."

"My eyes...?"

"The look of...utter despair." Her smile widened."I've seen it so often. I had that look once upon a time as well, before I got my powers. So I can tell. I've killed... hundreds of people with that look. And funny enough more than half begged for their lives even though they were planning to kill themselves! Isn't that ironic?!"

"What...?" Hajime was completely baffled."What do you...want...? If it's about Hazuki's plan, I-"

"Oh, I just want to talk. That's all." Chiaki leaned forward."Just had a little proposition for someone like you. Nothing to do with Hazuki's plan."

"Oh! Chika-san!" Endou exclaimed with surprise, handing the chocolate shake to Hajime."I wasn't expecting to see you!"

"Amber-chan!" Chiaki switched to her bubbly persona."What a surprise! Working hard I see!"

"I am, but we're closing in less than an hour. I didn't know you knew Adachi-san."

"Oh, him?" She eyed him with a glint of danger."We met back in Tokyo. We go to school together and I know his brother."

"Is that so?" Amber was about to open her mouth when another customer yelled her name.

"Endou-chan! My coffee!"

"Ah! Sorry! Right away! Sorry, guys. I'll be back in a minute!"

With that, the short girl rushed back to attend to the customers leaving the two Riders alone.

"Nice girl, isn't she?" Chiaki switched back to her normal personality."Talks a lot about you. I think she has a crush. But hey, I think you wouldn't have a problem going out with her right?"

"You said you wanted to talk about something..." Hajime reminded her, his body stiff as a board."Just spit it out. Why are you even here?"

"See, you're already asking too many questions. What a party pooper. Let me enjoy the suspense a little." Chiaki snickered."Alright then, let's talk. I have a proposition for you, Hajime Adachi. So you want to die, right? How about...I kill you."

"Huh...?" Did he hear that right?

"Let me kill you." She repeated, her smile never leaving her expression."I mean, you were trying to kill yourself. But I can assure your death. I can make it painless, even."

"But...but...what are you saying...?"

"I know what your problem is." She leaned back crossing her legs."You're scared of what people are going to think about you right? That the mighty Messiah took his own life. Your family, or what is left of it, is left in shame. Your sister crying, wondering why you killed yourself. Your friends and girlfriend too. But what if I can make it go from a spinless decision to a heroic deed?"

"Heroic...?"

"Let's fight. We'll have a little fight and we can pretend I caught you off guard and killed you." Chiaki elaborated."That way, you'll die as a hero who tried to defeat the wretched serial killer, Chiaki Nakahara. You will be remembered as a hero. And you'll never die because I'll always remember your name. It's not a bad deal, right? Besides..."

She leaned forward, standing from her chair and whispering in his ear."I can make the pain go away. You're suffering, right? Nighttime must be a nightmare. I can make it disappear. You won't ever have to feel that burden in your heart again."

"But...but my friends-"

"Forget about your friends. After death, all of that is meaningless." She shook her head, not allowing him to finish."You won't ever have to suffer again. The things you leave behind won't matter. And besides, if Hazuki succeeds, everything will be better. You'll see them again. The way I see it, you have two choices. Continue leaving this life of misery and pain every day until one day you die a meaningless death, or die as a hero by my hand. What do you say? Not a bad deal, huh?"

"No...no more pain...?" Hajime repeated in a low tone."I won't suffer anymore, right...? It won't hurt anymore...?"

"That's right." Chiaki's expression softened."You know, I killed a lot of people like you. People that wanted to end it all. And yes, some of them backpedaled at the end, and some others thanked me. They rejoiced at the thought of their deaths having value. That they wouldn't be remembered as those who took their own lives, but as victims killed by someone else. So, Hajime, will you let me set you free? I won't kill anyone here. You have my word."

That was a lie, of course. Chiaki internally laughed. No way she wasn't going kill everyone there. But he didn't need to know the details.

"Don't even think about better days." Chiaki forged on, hoping to break him with sadistic glee."Nothing will ever get better. You will never be the person you once were. You are broken. The people that died won't come back to life. You are yearning for hope, when there is none in this retched world. Just give up. Let me put you out of your misery."

"I...I..."

"Every time you have those thoughts, remember what you're living for."

Hajime reached for his phone, causing Chiaki to raise a brow.

"What's wrong?"

He unlocked it, browsing for the picture of Setsuna's smiling face.

"That little girl is smiling for you. She smiles to make you smile. She's been very brave for you. Her smile has the power of a thousand Kamen Riders if you ask me. You once said she's the only thing you have. Well, think about it. You're the only thing she has. So imagine how she would feel if you killed yourself."

He then swiped to the next picture, one of Hibiki smiling at the camera with a peace sign.

'The things I fight for...The people I'll leave behind if I die...'

"I don't want to die."

"What was that?"

"I don't want to die." Hajime repeated, this time louder."I don't want to. I still have...people around me that love me. And people that will be sad if I'm gone. So no thanks. I'm not taking your offer."

"I see..." Chiaki leaned back, folding her arms."That's...perfect. I was hoping you'd make this harder."

Hajime's eyes widened when she stood up and looked at her waist. Her V-Buckle was already strapped around her with the Femme Deck slid in. She had come prepared. Her Relic was never the threat.

"Then I'll just kill you and everyone in this dump of an island. Just like how your bitch of a cousin died!"

"Sorry, I'm back." Amber chuckled sheepishly."Did I miss any-"

"ENDOU-SAN! RUN! NOW!" Hajime reached for his Deck, throwing himself at the brunette.

"HENSHIN!" Chiaki screamed, her body engulfed in a bright light that could be seen from the outside and everything went white.

From outside, people could see the roof of the cafe explode and collapse on the structure, followed by the screams of terror from the people around as Mirror Monsters began pouring out from the mirrors. Kamen Rider Femme landed in the middle of the street, followed by Blancwing.

Sword Vent: Wingslasher

Wielding her dual-bladed staff, Femme glanced around the startled civilians, a maniacal grin underneath her helmet."It's my first time killing an entire prefecture. I won't be gentle. Let's make this memorable!"

Chiaki took out a purple vial, tossing it high into the sky before it exploded, forming a dome of purple energy that trapped everyone from coming and leaving Okinawa.

The invasion had begun.

Hamaguchi stood outside of the restaurant, his eyes widening in shock upon seeing the cloud of dust in the distance, followed by the screams that soon came."That's...where Hajime is..."

Next time chapter, we're going back to the main story. The battle between the protector shark and the murderous swan is approaching.