JustSomeHuman

CHAPTER 15

I finally realized what "Kiryu’s true goal" was—

I spoke my mind while looking straight at Koga.

Futaba: "Whether someone is human or Ayakashi doesn't matter—Koga, you and your father both believe that, don't you? Kiryu has always denied that."

Koga: "…"

Futaba: "He wants to make you feel, with your entire being, that the conviction you both share was a mistake— I think he’s trying to take the resentment he should have directed at your father and take it out on you instead. Maybe that’s why he went out of his way to appear in your 'Oni' form."

Koga: "…"

Koga is listening intently to what I have to say, as if lost in thought.

Futaba: "If his goal is to isolate you from humans by framing you as an 'Oni'... The incident in Asakusa was likely just the beginning. I believe similar things will keep happening from now on."

(That's why...)

I took a breath and spoke from the bottom of my heart.

Futaba: "That’s why I will catch the real culprit. I will protect you in the Capital, Koga."

Koga: "Futaba……"

(—Ah)

I was startled when I saw Koga's eyes widen.

Futaba: "No, um... I didn't mean just by myself! I'm planning to ask Toichiro and the others for help too..."

I hurriedly mumbled an addition, feeling embarrassed that I had spoken so boldly, as if I could solve everything alone.

However, Koga looked at me and his brow softened slightly.

Koga: "…You really are strong, Futaba."

Futaba: "…Koga."

Koga: "I understand. I'll leave the Capital to you. But, don't do anything reckless."

Futaba: "—Yes!"

I nodded firmly at Koga's words.

Koga: "Kiryu's objective is likely exactly what you said. And apparently, there's a rumor among some of the Ayakashi that I'm selling them out to the government."

Futaba: "Selling Ayakashi...?"

Koga: "Basically, it’s not just humans—the Ayakashi want to make me look like the villain, too."

Koga stopped talking for a moment, and his eyes suddenly took on a distant look.

Koga: "...No matter how much Kiryu hates my old man, taking it out on me isn't going to change a thing. Because my old man... he's not even around anymore."

Futaba: "...Koga..."

My heart aches seeing Koga with such a lonely look in his eyes.

(...You're right.)

(I feel like hating someone who isn't even here anymore is just... so empty.)

(Even if you directed that hatred elsewhere, it would only lead to more people getting hurt unnecessarily—)

(And the person doing the hating would probably never truly find peace in their heart, either.)

When I instinctively looked down and fell silent, Koga rested his elbows on his knees and leaned in, tilting his head to look into my face.

Koga: "But... You know? You're more level-headed about this than I thought."

Futaba: "Huh?"

Koga: "I totally thought you’d try to stop me from going to Kobe."

As he said that, Koga brought his face right up to mine.

Koga: "I'm going to feel lonely being away from you."

Futaba: ".....! W-well, I feel the same way!"

Startled by what he said, I looked at him in a hurry.

Futaba: "I'll be lonely, and I'm worried... honestly, I want to be with you every single moment and never leave your side. But right now, this isn't the time for me to be selfish like that..."

Koga: "I know."

Koga laughed and gave my hair a messy rub.

Koga: "I'm relieved to hear you feel that way, too."

Futaba: "Koga..."

Gazing at his smile, I gathered my courage and opened my mouth to speak.

Futaba: "......Um,”

(It’s embarrassing to say something like this...)

Futaba: "If... if it's alright with you, Koga—!"

My words were cut off by Koga’s kiss.

Koga: "...Is it okay if I stay with you until morning?"

(......I was thinking the exact same thing.)

Koga’s gentle gaze and voice made my chest tighten with a sweet ache.

Futaba: "Ah, ha… —Mmm."

Before I could even finish nodding, Koga’s lips covered mine again.

Futaba: "Mm, Koga......"

Koga: "Futaba......"

The kiss grew deeper, and I was slowly pushed down onto the bed.

Koga: "....."

(Ah...)

I looked up to see Koga looking down at me with feverish eyes.

Futaba: "...Koga, please make sure you take the sachet with you."

Koga: "Yeah. I won't let it leave my side for even a moment."

Koga reached out and turned off the lamp on the side table.

Futaba: "Nn..."

The kissing resumed, and in an instant, I was swallowed up by that heat.

(...I will never, no matter what happens, leave Koga's side.)

As if to pour all my feelings into it, I wrapped my arms around Koga’s back.

Koga: "Futaba...... I love you. As long as you are here, I will return safely."

Futaba: "Yes...... I know."

We kissed repeatedly as if confirming each other's presence, exchanging whispers in between—

(...This is the Koga I love so much.)

Wanting to engrave that feeling into my very soul, I desperately responded to his kisses.

Koga: "...Don't make such a cute face. It makes my resolve waver."

Futaba: "And don't you look at me like that—Ngh, mm."

The sweet kiss makes it hard to breathe, and I can't think of anything but Koga.

(...Koga)

(Please, stay safe—)

Feeling as if both my body and soul were melting, I simply surrendered myself to the heat radiating from Koga.

—The next morning.

(Mmm...)

(—Wait, where's Koga?)

When I woke up, Koga, who was supposed to be sleeping next to me, was gone.

(Wait, did he leave already!?)

I hurriedly got dressed and rushed to the living room.

Futaba: "Good morning."

In the living room, there was Toichiro, fully dressed, and—

(Oh...)

Koga was there, sitting across from him and talking.

Toichiro: “Ah, good morning."

Koga: "Morning."

The two of them noticed me and turned around with a smile.

(That's right... he did say he was heading to Kobe tonight.)

I felt a wave of relief, having worried for a moment that I might have missed the chance to say goodbye.

—Click (sound of a door opening)

Shizuki: "Good morning, Mistress Futaba. I've brought the morning tea. Is milk tea alright with you?"

Futaba: "Ah... yes."

Toichiro: "Well, come over here and take a seat first."

As I sat on the sofa, Koga spoke to me as if to confirm something.

Koga: "You're planning on going back home for a bit today, right?"

Futaba: "Yes, that's the plan. I did send a message yesterday, but I don't think that explanation alone is enough..."

I had intended to return home once while it was still light out to explain the situation to my father and the others.

Koga: "Normally, I'm the one who should go and explain, but… It would be a problem if someone saw me and might cause an even bigger scene."

Saying that, Koga took an envelope out from his clothes.

Koga: "I wrote a letter to Mr. Mototaka. Sorry to ask, but could you deliver it for me?"

Futaba: "...I understand."

(Koga hasn't done anything wrong… Why does he have to hide and move around like a real criminal?)

Regret and sadness flood my heart all at once, and I feel overwhelmed with helplessness.

Koga: "Don't make a face like that. It's only for now. Also, I'm going to have Toichiro go with you to your house."

Futaba: "Eh?"

Toichiro: "After all, I am taking charge of being the young lady's bodyguard."

(Toichiro… He is one of my father’s clients, so I'm grateful to have him help explain things.)

Futaba: ".....Thank you. I appreciate it."

Toichiro: "Yeah."

Koga: "Well then, now that we've settled that..."

Koga stood up slowly.

Koga: "I should get going soon.”

Futaba: "What!? You’re leaving at already...?"

Koga: "Well, there are a lot of things I need to get done before then. I’ve got to find a way to wrap up my work business, too."

(Ah... I see.)

(Since he’s leaving the Capital for a while, he has to think about his work, too.)

Then, Shizuki, who had been watching Koga, quietly interjected.

Shizuki: "...Master Koga, are you truly going to Kobe all by yourself?"

Koga: "Yeah. In that case, I’m sorry, but as for what comes next—"

—Click (Door opening)

Kuya: "I'm going too."

Interrupting Koga’s words was a listless voice that could be heard the moment the door opened.

(......!)

Everyone turned toward the voice at once—

Kuya: "Yawn..."

Kuya, who was standing in front of the door, let out a yawn.

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CHAPTER 16

Standing by the door, Kuya said, "I'll go to Kobe with you."

Kuya: "Koga, you’ll just do something reckless if you're on your own."

Koga: "Kuya, you..."

Shizuki: "...I suppose so. It’s just as Master Kuya says."

Toichiro: "True, it would be more reassuring for someone to be with him. Especially in Koga's case."

(Toichiro and the others are worried about Koga, too.)

(They call it an "inseparable bond," but there's no doubt they really care about each other.)

Futaba: "Kuya, I'm counting on you."

Kuya: "Yeah."

Koga: "Hey, hey, don't just decide things on your own..."

Koga scratched his head awkwardly, then looked at Kuya.

Koga: "It takes over half a day to get to Kobe by train, you know."

Kuya: "What? That's long..."

Koga: "We're using a carriage as well so we don't stand out, so the trip will take a full day."

Kuya: "Oh man..."

(He looks like he's already regretting saying he'd go.)

Kuya thought for a moment, then looked up with a resigned expression.

Kuya: "...Fine, whatever. I’ll just sleep the whole way anyway."

Toichiro: "Then it’s settled—Kuya will be Koga's handler."

Koga: "Good grief... fine."

Koga accepted it somewhat reluctantly, then looked at me and smiled.

Koga: "Well, I'm off."

Futaba: "Take care, Koga."

(I hope they make it back safely.)

With that prayer in my heart, I saw Koga and Kuya off.

After parting ways with them, I headed toward my house with Toichiro.

Futaba: "I wonder what's written in the letter from Koga to my father?"

Toichiro: "Ah, I know the contents. I believe it was an explanation regarding the Asakusa incident and something about your future.”

According to Toichiro, the Asakusa incident was a setup orchestrated by someone to frame Koga.

Toichiro: "‘We have a lead on the mastermind. Since they are aware of my existence, I will go into hiding at Toichiro’s house for a while.’"

That is apparently what was written in the letter.

Toichiro: "Explaining the details too thoroughly would only increase your father's anxiety, so I've kept the information about Kiryu hidden. I just hope this is enough to convince him."

(It’s true that he might understand the incident itself, but...)

Futaba: "Um... Toichiro."

I decided to tell Toichiro what had been weighing on my mind.

Futaba: "To be honest, I'm also worried about leaving my father and Nachi at home. I'm afraid they might try to do something to my family too."

Toichiro: "Koga has already taken care of that."

Futaba: "Eh?"

Toichiro: "It seems the Onikiri will be guarding your family."

Futaba: "...! The Onikiri?"

Toichiro: "I don't know how Koga negotiated it, but for now, they are supposedly on our side. They’ll be patrolling the area around your house and providing an escort when necessary."

Futaba: "I see..."

(Maybe Koga asked them for this favor when he was alone with Aizen?)

Toichiro: "There was the option of having your father and the cat come to my house, but… That would restrict your lives too much and be quite inconvenient. So, it was decided that relying on the Onikiri was the better move."

Futaba: "...I suppose you're right."

(If the soldiers from the Onikiri are there, I can breathe a little easier.)

Toichiro: "Though, the extent of the protection still needs to be discussed with Mr. Mototaka. Koga wants you to live as normal a life as possible. Besides, Koga believes that the Kiryu Trading Company is unlikely to make contact with your father."

Considering their past movements and Kiryu's goals, it seemed unlikely they would target someone specific to cause harm— Rather, it was more likely they would cause a major incident targeting an unspecified large number of people.

Toichiro: "Well, you are the exception. Kiryu has contacted you multiple times, and the culprit has recognized you."

Futaba: "Yes…”

Toichiro: "I'm just asking to be sure, but you didn't happen to do anything in Asakusa to earn the culprit's resentment, did you?"

Futaba: “… Um…”

Fake Koga: "......I am me. I am stronger than anyone."

Futaba: "...No, you're wrong. Koga is much stronger."

Fake Koga: "...! I am...... strong......!”

(I wonder…… about that?)

I'm not sure if I'd call it resentment, but I have a feeling I may have provoked the culprit.

Futaba: "…"

Toichiro: "By the look of things, you have an idea of what happened then?"

Toichiro let out an exaggerated sigh, as if he couldn't believe it.

Toichiro: "That's so like you. You never fail to meet my expectations."

Futaba: "…S-Sorry. Um, Toichiro, thank you so much for everything."

Toichiro: "Well, it's fine."

With that, Toichiro turned his gaze out the window with a meaningful look.

Toichiro: "…Besides, there are things I'm curious about as well."

(……?)

Futaba: “what does that mean…"

Toichiro: "We've finally arrived."

Toichiro told the driver to stop the carriage, cutting off what I wanted to ask.

Arriving home, I hand the letter from Koga to my father.

Mototaka: "…"

After Father finished reading the letter, he let out a heavy sigh.

Mototaka: "…Things have become quite serious, haven't they?"

Futaba: "Yeah…"

Mototaka: "Ever since I learned about the incident in Asakusa from the newspaper, I've had a feeling that the culprit wasn't the young Kitamikado."

(Thank goodness, Father believes in Koga too.)

Nachi: "But still..."

Unusually, Nachi looks at me and Toichiro with a lack of his usual energy.

Nachi: "Is the Oni doing alright? Since we know about Ayakashi and Onmyoji, we can guess that someone just transformed into him... but for a normal human, it’s not like that, right?"

Futaba: "Yeah..."

I remember the liquor store owner who shielded me in Asakusa.

Nachi: "I’ve been worried since the incident, too. I went out into the city in my cat form to check things out… It seems there are a fair amount of people—mostly those who actually saw the Asakusa incident—who believe that Oni actually did it."

Toichiro: "We'll just have to deal with that part gradually as we go."

Toichiro answers Nachi’s words bluntly and then looks toward Father.

Toichiro: "For the time being, until things are settled, I was wondering if you would allow me to keep the Young Lady at my house."

Mototaka: "I see..."

Toichiro: "It’s alright. Both hizuki and I are quite skilled, after all. Whether the opponent is an Ayakashi or an Onmyoji, I will protect Futaba."

Mototaka: "...Thank you. I’m counting on you."

Toichiro: "Also, there is talk of assigning Army soldiers to you, Mr. Mototaka. What do you think?"

Mototaka: "..."

Father puts his hand to his chin and sinks into thought at Toichiro's offer.

Mototaka: "...Since things have come to this, it's not just us who are in danger anymore. Is the army going to patrol the Capital again?"

Toichiro: "Yes, that is the plan, from what I’ve heard."

Mototaka: "In that case, it would be enough if they could just patrol around the house at that time."

Father looked down at Koga’s letter, then raised his head once more.

Mototaka: "To let our daily lives change because of a criminal is like being played right into their hands. I’m sure the young Kitamikado wouldn't want that either."

(Father...)

It seemed Father also understood Koga’s feelings, which I had heard about from Toichiro in the carriage.

(...I’m so glad that my father is who he is.)

Toichiro nodded, as if he truly understood Father's heart.

Toichiro: "I understand. I will pass that along to the army."

Nachi: "It's okay! I'll be the one to protect dad!"

Mototaka: "Thank you, Nachi. You're very reliable."

Father smiled, then turned back to Toichiro and bowed his head.

Mototaka: "Please, take good care of my daughter."

Toichiro: "Yes. I will certainly take her into my care."

And so, it was officially decided that I would be staying at Toichiro’s house.

CHAPTER 13

I left Koga and Aizen in the office and was shown to a separate room.

Ichijo: "Please, have some tea. You might be thinking, 'It's just military tea,' but it’s actually quite delicious."

Futaba: "……Thank you very much."

Ichijo, the man who guided me here, speaks to me kindly, but—

(……I couldn't tell Aizen about Kagari.)

(I thought I should listen to what Koga has to say first……)

With something weighing on my mind, I remained restless even as we engaged in small talk.

Futaba: "...I... can't do it."

Before I knew it, the words had left my lips.

Kagari: "...Oh, really? I thought you, of all people, would understand. Well, it's the answer you chose for yourself. That's fine, isn't it? But in exchange— You’d better keep your eyes peeled for what’s about to happen."

(……Because I turned down Kagari’s offer.)

The incident in Asakusa was undoubtedly triggered by my answer.

(I never imagined something like that would happen.)

Someone who looked exactly like Koga, swinging his blade at innocent people.

(Ugh, that sight is burned into my mind and won't leave.)

Naturally, my grip tightened on my teacup.

Ichijo: "…"

Ichijo glanced at my hands, and his voice suddenly took on a serious tone.

Ichijo: "…The Major may seem strict, but he is actually a very kind-hearted person."

Futaba: "Eh?"

Ichijo: "Ah, I’m sorry. You probably wonder why I’m saying this after everything that happened. But even during the 'Red Eye Incident,' the Major was hurting more than anyone. I believe he is truly grateful to all of you who lent us your strength."

Having said that much, Ichijo looked at me and gave a warm smile.

Ichijo: "Our desire to protect the citizens of the Capital is the same as the Major's. And that includes you, Miss Saotome, and Mr. Kitamikado as well. So, it’s alright. I promise we will catch the culprit."

(Ah...)

I finally realize that he is trying to set my mind at ease.

(...Ichijo is such a good person.)

(When we were on patrol together, I didn't really get many chances to talk with the other soldiers...)

His feelings for the Capital are the same as ours—no, perhaps even—

(Ichijo and the others are people who work while putting their lives on the line for this country.)

Futaba: "...Thank you very much. You were trying to cheer me up, weren't you?"

Ichijo: "No, I was only telling you the truth."

A Sudden Arrival

—Click (Sound of a door opening)

Immediately after I thanked Ichijo, the door to the room opened.

Koga: "Sorry to keep you waiting."

Futaba: "Koga...!"

Seeing Koga’s usual expression makes me feel relieved.

Koga: "We'll talk about the details later. I'm sorry, but for now, could you just do as I say?"

Futaba: "...! Yes, I don't mind..."

(I wonder if Koga has some kind of plan.)

Koga: "We're going to Toichiro's house."

Futaba: "To Toichiro's...?"

>>>>>>>

Without understanding Koga’s true intentions, I was led out of the Headquarters by him.

Toichiro: "...What business does a 'wanted man' have with me?"

As soon as Toichiro saw us, a mocking smile appeared on his face.

Toichiro: "Unlike you, I don't like sticking my nose into troublesome matters."

Koga: "I’m not 'sticking my nose in,' troubles keep coming toward me."

Toichiro: "Hmm..."

Toichiro fluttered that newspaper extra around, as if to show it off.

Toichiro: "I read what’s written here. I don't know if it's an Onmyoji doing or an Ayakashi, but there sure are people with bad taste out there, going so far as to transform into you.” (excuse me sir??!!!)

Koga: "The reason I came to your place is because I have a favor to ask."

Toichiro: "A favor?"

Koga: "Yeah. To put it simply, I want you to look after Futaba here for a while."

Futaba: "What!?"

Stunned by this sudden proposal, I look at Koga.

(Before we got here, he told me he’d explain everything in detail at Toichiro’s house.)

(I had no idea Koga was planning something like this.)

Koga: "Kiryu is trying to frame me to settle a grudge against my father. They know about Futaba, too. I can't guarantee she won't be put in harm's way from here on out. I'll feel more at ease if she's staying at your house."

Toichiro: "So you're telling me to be her bodyguard?"

Koga: "That’s exactly right."

(That means... in other words...)

Finally realizing his true intention, I stare at Koga.

Futaba: "Koga, you're going to Kobe, aren't you?"

Koga: "...Yeah."

Koga meets my gaze without wavering.

(He intends to go meet Kiryu all by himself.)

Koga: "I want you to stay here in the Capital. Just for this time, it's safer that way."

(I can tell he’s saying that specifically because he anticipates that I’ll want to go with him.)

Futaba: "I..."

As I’m trying to figure out how to put my feelings into words—

Toichiro: "Hey, hold on a second."

I’m interrupted by the calm voice of Toichiro, who gives a shrug.

Toichiro: "Taking her in... I don’t remember ever agreeing to that."

Koga: "...Sorry. But right now, this is the only way. I’ll explain about Kiryu later too."

Toichiro: "I already know about the Kiryu Trading and what happened in Kobe."

Koga: "...Hm?"

(Toichiro knows about the Kiryu Trading…?)

Koga: "...I don't recall telling you anything yet."

— Click (Door opening sound) —

The living room door opens, cutting over Koga’s voice.

Shizuki: "Excuse me."

There stands Shizuki, holding a tea set, and—

Kuya: "..."

Futaba: "Kuya!?"

Koga: "Hey, what are you doing here?"

Startled by the sight of Kuya entering behind him, Koga and I both cry out in surprise.

Shizuki: "Master Kuya has been here since before Master Koga arrived. Though he spent most of that time sleeping in the guest room."

Kuya: "I woke up from my nap and saw Koga arriving.”

Kuya flops down heavily onto the sofa.

Koga: "Why the heck are you at Toichiro’s house anyway?"

Kuya: "It’s so noisy at your place, I couldn't get a wink of sleep. Newspaper reporters keep barging in constantly."

Futaba: "O-Oh, I see..."

Koga: "Ah, so that’s it."

Koga looks at Toichiro, finally understanding.

Koga: "So you heard about the Kiryu business from Kuya."

Toichiro: "Pretty much. I figured I should know the circumstances, just in case."

Kuya: "So, what’s the plan?"

Kuya turns a rare, solemn gaze toward Koga.

Kuya: "In the Capital, everyone's completely convinced that Koga is the culprit. Since you bothered to come all the way to Toichiro’s place, I assume you have some kind of plan."

Koga: "Yeah. I’m leaving for Kobe tomorrow night."

Kuya: "...Why at night?"

Koga glanced at Shizuki and opened his mouth, wearing a similarly solemn expression.

Koga: "There’s someone I have to meet before then."

Shizuki: "……?"

Toichiro: "Honestly..."

Toichiro let out a heavy sigh and placed his hand on my shoulder.

Toichiro: "That’s one massive favor I’m doing you."

Futaba: "Ah..."

Toichiro: "I’ll look after your girl at my place. I'll be thinking about how I'm going to have you pay me back by the time you return."

Koga: "……Fine. I owe you one. But……"

Contrary to his words, Koga frowned bitterly and—

Koga: "Don't you touch her." (SIR!!! MY GOOD SIR!!!??)

He briskly swatted away Toichiro’s hand, which had been resting on my shoulder.

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CHAPTER 14

Assigned to a guest room in Toichiro's house, I opened the window and readied my charm.

Futaba: "...Go."

I stood still, watching the familiar fly away.

I intended to have the familiar tell my father that because of the incident in Asakusa, I would be staying at Toichiro's house tonight. I also added, "I am safe, so please don't worry," and "I'll tell you the details tomorrow."

(I might not be able to sleep tonight...)

Sitting alone on the bed in the large room, the events of today came rushing back to me in a dizzying blur.

(...I want to talk to Koga)

(He’s in a different guest room, right? Maybe if I go see him—)

Just as I stood up with that thought...

—Knock, knock—

Koga: "Futaba, do you have a moment?"

Futaba: "—! Yes!"

I opened the door to find Koga standing there.

Koga: "...Mind if I come in?"

Futaba: "Of course."

Koga stepped inside somewhat hesitantly, and we both sat down on the bed.

Koga: "Sorry for the late hour. I just really wanted to talk to you. I'm sorry for just deciding everything on my own."

Futaba: "No, it's..."

(I never expected Koga to be the one to come see me.)

I made up my mind and looked up at Koga.

Futaba: "Actually, there's something I need to tell you too."

Koga: "What is it?"

Encouraged by Koga to speak first, I told him about what happened with Kagari.

Futaba: "...I am truly sorry. Because I turned down the offer Kagari made me, it triggered everything that happened..."

As I said this, the tears I had been holding back began to well up in my eyes.

(—I mustn't cry.)

(Crying won't change anything.)

As I struggled to hold back my tears, determined not to let them fall—

Koga: "Futaba."

Koga placed his large palm gently on my head.

Koga: "You did well. What you did was right."

Futaba: "Koga..."

Koga: "Besides, there’s no telling how much of what Kagari says can actually be trusted anyway."

Koga: "I think the outcome would have been the same regardless of how you responded."

Futaba: "But..."

His kind words made the tears well up even more. As I bit my lip to keep from crying, Koga watched over me, stroking my hair.

Koga: "Listen, this conversation ends here. No matter what happens to me in the future, don’t you ever apologize. Promise me."

(...Even though Koga is the one going through a hard time.)

(Even so, he still says these things for my sake.)

Thinking of that made my chest tighten even more.

Futaba: "...Yes. I promise."

Koga: "Good."

When I nodded as if to take his words to heart, Koga gave a faint smile.

Koga: "There's something I want to tell you too."

Having said that, Koga told me about what happened after we went to the shrine of hidden god—

He shared everything he had heard from Kagemaru.

About the organization of ayakashi called the Senkitai, and how its first leader was Koga's father.

(Koga's father accepted the conditions set by the government, who had turned their backs on them once the new era began...)

And how, to Kiryu—who had looked up to Koga's father—that was a betrayal—

Koga: "That is the reason Kiryu... hates my father."

Futaba: "......"

I could only listen in silence.

(I don't know the real reason Koga's father accepted those conditions, but...)

(...I can somewhat understand why Kiryu would feel "betrayed.")

The strange feeling I’d always had about Kiryu’s words finally made sense to me now.

(In the first place, the government that captured the Senkitai—who fought alongside them—is the root of all this evil.)

Thinking that, I suddenly remembered Akiyasu.

(Akiyasu also resented the government because his father was killed by them.)

Humans, Onmyoji, Ayakashi—I wonder if these differences only ever lead to conflict.

Futaba: "Um... why did Kagemaru tell you all that? It's not that I doubt his story, but I'm wondering why he went out of his way to come and tell you, Koga..."

Koga: "Apparently, they're concerned about Kiryu’s movements over there, too. They said they’d lend us their strength if it’s to stop that guy."

(......!)

(The Senkitai is going to help Kouga-san...)

Koga: "I don't know the exact reasons, but… Including all that, I'm going to talk to him again tomorrow."

(Ah......)

Kuya: "...Why at night?"

Koga: "There’s someone I have to meet before then.”

(The person Koga said he was going to meet... was Kagemaru.)

Futaba: "Koga... are you okay?"

With a rising sense of unease, I quietly peered into Koga’s face.

(The incident in Asakusa, his father's past...)

(I feel like too many things are happening all at once.)

I was worried that even Koga might be reaching his limit, but—

Koga: "I'm surprisingly fine."

Contrary to my expectations, Koga answered nonchalantly.

Futaba: "Oh... really?"

Koga: "Well, I do feel like I've been dragged into a real mess, though. But I have you... and Toichiro and the others."

(—!)

Futaba: "...Yes."

I placed both of my hands over Koga's hand, which was resting beside me.

Futaba: "No matter what happens, everyone else and I are on your side, Koga. Please take care on your way to Kobe."

Koga: "Yeah..."

Then, Koga spoke as if he were trying to gauge my reaction.

Koga: "...Are you angry that I’m leaving you behind in the Capital?"

Futaba: (—Oh.)

Koga: "Once we're back in to Capital, for a little while, we should keep our distance—"

Futaba: "I... I refuse!"

Koga: "...!"

Futaba: "Please let me help, too. I’ll protect myself."

(Koga is talking about what happened back then.)

Koga: "It’s not that I don’t trust you. It’s just..."

Futaba: "It’s okay."

I cut Koga off and spoke firmly to reassure him.

Futaba: "I understand that this time, I would definitely just be in the way if I went with you. And besides..."

I slowly put my thoughts into words.

Futaba: "I have something I want to do in the Capital myself."

Koga: "Something you want to do?"

Futaba: "Yes. I feel like I've finally started to understand what Kiryu wants, thanks to this recent incident."

What I remembered were Kiryu's words and actions back in Kobe.

Kiryu: "I knew your father well."

Kiryu: "He was a man who desired the coexistence of humans and Ayakashi more than anyone. And yet, it was humans who killed him. Why do you remain so friendly with mere humans? Do you not hate them? If you, his son, do not avenge your parents', then who— I see... you are afraid, aren't you? Afraid of making humans your enemy."

(Those words of Kiryu's...)

(And the incident in Asakusa.)

The terrified eyes of the people I saw in Asakusa, looking at someone who had taken on Koga’s form.

(If that was what Kiryu wanted to achieve...)

Futaba: "I think Mr. Kiryu... wants to isolate you, Koga."

I looked directly at Koga in front of me and spoke with absolute conviction—

CHAPTER 11

Only the sound of the trees rustling echoed through the area.

Koga: "...Give me a reason."

After a while, Koga finally spoke quietly.

Koga: "Why did you go out of your way to tell me that?"

Kagemaru: "...That bastard Kiryu is an eyesore to the Senkitai, too. So, just like you, I don't want him meddling any further."

Kagemaru blew out a puff of smoke from his pipe and smiled.

Kagemaru: "If you want to stop Kiryu, I’ll lend you a hand. He's the leader of a bunch of thugs in the Kansai region. If we just leave him be, he’s going to become quite a headache."

Koga: "..."

Koga remained silent, staring at Kagemaru as if trying to read him.

Kagemaru: "If you want my help, come here tomorrow at the same time. Well, regardless of your answer, I’m going to act on my own anyway."

After saying that, Kagemaru looked up as if sensing something.

—Whoosh!

In the next moment, a whirlwind kicked up between the two, and a large man appeared from within it.

Kagemaru: "Zantetsu, you’re late."

Zantetsu: "My apologies."

Zantetsu glanced at Koga and swung the large scythe he was holding.

—Whoosh!

An even larger whirlwind rose up, and when it settled—

Kagemaru, Zantetsu, and the Ayakashi that Koga had defeated had all vanished.

>>>>

Koga: (My father was the former leader of the Senkitai...)

He headed home, turning Kagemaru’s words over in his head.

Koga: (...I have no reason to doubt Kagemaru’s story. If that’s true, it explains why my father never wanted to talk about his life before joining the military.)

And the reason why Kiryu hates Koga’s father—

Kiryu: "Don't tell me you don't know? About your own father's past. Lord Ouga... once betrayed us, those who were supposed to be his comrades."

Koga : ("Betrayal"... huh?)

If the story from a moment ago is true, then Kiryu’s feelings are understandable.

Koga: (...But the only father I know is the one who became a soldier.)

"It doesn't matter if they're human or Ayakashi—I will protect everyone who lives in this country."

That was the conviction of the father Koga knew.

Koga: (There’s no way my old man would "abandon his comrades just because he wanted to live." ...Am I just thinking this because it’s convenient for me?)

A question without an answer that he has been carrying for a long time now.

Koga: (There is no way to know what my father was thinking back when he was in the Senkitai. That’s exactly why… I can’t deny the possibility that the father I know and his true self are different—can I?)

Koga: "..." (...Hm?)

Deep in thought, Koga suddenly noticed the piercing gazes of those around him and looked up. People passing on the street stopped in their tracks, whispering to one another while stealing glances at Koga.

Man 1: "Shouldn't someone call the authorities?"

Woman 1: "But... did Mr. Koga really...?"

Man 2: "It’s beyond just looking like him; they say it was him. Except he had horns growing out of his head or something..."

Koga: (What... what are they talking about?)

Man 3: "Well, it's not like I actually saw it myself."

Woman 3: "Look, I don't want to doubt Mr. Koga either, but… According to those who saw the scene, Mr. Koga’s appearance at the time was just like… a 'monster,' they say."

Koga: "..."

When he looked around, the eyes fixed upon him were a mixture of doubt and terror.

Boy: "Y-you, what on earth are you— U... Uwaaaaaaaaah!"

Koga: (Tch… No, stay calm.)

Koga: "......"

Koga took a deep breath, fixed his expression to look as normal as possible, and spoke to the owner of a nearby dry goods store.

Koga: "Yo. Did something happen?"

Shopkeeper: "Eek...!"

Being stared at by Koga, the shopkeeper clearly had a look of terror on his face.

Shopkeeper: "What do you mean, 'did something happen'... I mean..."

The shopkeeper's wife intervenes, and Koga is suddenly surrounded by soldiers.

Shopkeeper's Wife: "Help! He's Over here!"

A woman came out from the back, grabbed the shopkeeper, and pulled him inside the store.

Koga: "...! Hey—"

Just as he tried to call out to stop them, he suddenly felt multiple presences behind him.

Koga: "Tch...!"

Guarded, Koga turned around to find—

Ichijo: "You are Kitamikado Koga, I presume."

Members of the Onikiri were lined up in a row.

Ichijo: "Please accompany us to the Headquarters."

••°°••°°••°°••°°••

Koga is taken to headquarters, where he reunites with Futaba, only for things to turn hostile.

Koga: "..."

Koga was led by the Onikiri soldiers to Headquarters. Opening a familiar door, he found Kyonosuke and—

Koga: "Futaba!"

Futaba: "Koga!"

Futaba, who had been standing facing Kyonosuke, spun around.

Futaba: "Thank goodness... Koga."

Futaba showed a relieved smile and tried to run toward him.

Kyonosuke: "Wait."

Futaba: "...!"

Moving faster, Kyonosuke stepped forward to block Futaba and drew his sword.

Futaba: "No, Aizen!"

Kyonosuke: "I'm sorry, but there's no guarantee that Ichijo hasn't been deceived."

Kyonosuke pointed the tip of his drawn sword at Koga and asked in a sharp voice.

Kyonosuke: "Where have you been until now?”

Koga: "What are you...?"

Kyonosuke: "Answer me."

Koga: "... I was at the Shrine of hidden god. meeting with Yura."

Even at Koga’s answer, Kyonosuke didn't lower his sword; instead, he glared at Koga even more sharply.

Kyonosuke: "Then, what is the proof that you are indeed 'Koga Kitamikado'?"

Koga: "..."

After staring silently at Kyonosuke for a moment, Koga reached into his garment and pulled out a satchet.

Futaba: "...! That’s..."

Koga: "...I guess I'm busted."

Koga looks at Futaba and smiles, appearing just a little bit shy.

Koga: "I've been carrying it with me ever since then."

Futaba: "Oh..."

Futaba clutched her hands together tightly and stared at the satchet before turning her gaze toward Kyonosuke.

Futaba: "...There is no mistake. This is Koga... My Koga."

Kyonosuke: "...I see."

Kyonosuke finally exhaled and lowered his sword.

Koga: "Hey, what kind of farce is this? Why the hell did I have to have a sword suddenly pointed at me?"

Kyonosuke: "...If you read this, you’ll understand the situation."

Kyonosuke handed Koga a single sheet of paper that had been on the desk.

Koga: (A newspaper...... extra edition?)

Written there was an incident that occurred in the Capital earlier that evening—

>>>> Earlier: Futaba's POV :

It was after Kagari had left the sweets shop, leaving behind some unsettling words.

Crowd: "Someone was pushed off the Asakusa Twelve-stories tower!" "The culprit looked just like Mr. Kitamikado—"

Such commotions could be heard one after another from outside the shop.

(Lies... that can't be...)

Just as I turned pale instinctively—

Woman: "Kyaaa!"

An especially loud scream echoed from the direction of the street.

(What!?)

Drawn by the sound of voices, I stepped outside the shop and saw—

A massive crowd of people running toward me, as if fleeing from something.

(W-what is going on!?)

(—! That’s...!)

The moment I saw the figure behind the fleeing crowd, my feet felt as though they were nailed to the ground, and I couldn't move.

Futaba: "K-...Koga...?"

???: "Guaaaa!"

The person standing there, gripping a katana in the form of an Oni ogre and letting out a roar, was unmistakably Koga, no matter how I looked at him.

(It can't be...)

Liquor Store Owner: "What on earth happened, Mr. Koga...?"

Someone beside me muttered with a trembling voice, and then suddenly noticed me.

Liquor Store Owner: "Wait, aren't you that young lady…?"

Futaba: "Ah, from that time...!"

Liquor Store Owner: "No, no, it was just small talk. Mr. Koga was waiting for you, wasn't he? Hurry up, Mr. Koga, take your lady friend somewhere nice."

(It’s the owner of the liquor store who was with Koga when we met up.)

Liquor Store Owner: "Young lady, what is the meaning of this?"

Fear was seeping into the owner’s eyes as he looked at me.

Liquor Store Owner: "Why Mr. Koga is like this...?"

Futaba: "—That... that isn't Koga!"

The moment I answered instinctively, I felt a gaze and turned around.

???: "......"

My eyes met Koga as he sheathed his sword, and a chill ran down my spine.

(No, this person is different...)

They look nothing like Koga’s warm eyes that used to gaze at me so gently.

He is looking at me with eyes like those of a predator targeting its prey—reminding me of Koga when he's in carnage form.

Futaba: "...You are not Koga."

As I whispered those words clearly, perhaps my voice reached him—

???: "...”

He slowly walks towards me.

°°°•••°°°•••°°°•••°°°•••°°°•••°°°•••°°°•••°°°•••°°°

CHAPTER 12

The person approached me slowly and placed his hand on the hilt of his sword while keeping his eyes fixed on me.

Fake Koga: "......"

Then—

Liquor Store Owner: "No!"

The owner of the liquor store from earlier cut in between us.

Liquor Store Owner: "What do you think you're doing to a young lady? Get a hold of yourself!"

Futaba: "No, Leave, it's dangerous...!"

The owner spreads his arms and stands in my way as if to protect me.

Fake Koga: "......Move."

The person swung his sword, still in its sheath, toward the owner.

(—!)

Liquor Store Owner: "Urgh!"

Having taken the blow from the sword, the owner clutches his chest and collapses on the spot.

Futaba: "Ah......!"

Feeling a heat behind my eyes, I kneel down beside the owner—

(Why did it have to come to this......)

I glared at the person who looked exactly like Koga.

Futaba: "Koga would never do something like this...!"

Fake Koga: "......"

Futaba: "Who are you? Show me your true form."

Fake Koga: "......I am me. I am stronger than anyone."

Even the voice that answered was exactly like Koga’s, making the heat in my eyes sting even more.

Futaba: "...No, you're wrong. Koga is much stronger."

Fake Koga: "...!"

The moment I said that, the fake Koga’s expressions distorted for the first time.

Fake Koga: "I am...... strong......!"

Screaming that, he drew his sword and swung it down toward me.

(Ngh...!)

Just as I instinctively twisted my body to try and dodge the blade, a white cloak fluttered before my eyes.

Clang!

Kyonosuke: "......"

Futaba: "Major Aizen...!"

It was Aizen's sword that caught the blade.

Fake Koga: "Tch..."

After a brief struggle of clashing blades, the fake who looked exactly like Koga leaped backward.

Fake Koga: "......"

Kyonosuke: "It's useless to run."

Before anyone knew it, members of the Onikiri had surrounded him with guns drawn.

Fake Koga: "......!"

Poof!

In the next instant, a cloud of smoke erupted around the man.

Futaba: *Cough, cough*...

Kyonosuke: "A smoke screen...?"

By the time the smoke finally cleared—

(He's... gone!)

Kyonosuke: "Search the area. He couldn't have gone far. Medical unit, tend to the wounded."

Onikiri Members: "Yes, sir!"

As the Onikiri members scattered, Aizen turned back to me.

Kyonosuke: "Are you hurt?"

Futaba: "No, I'm okay..."

Although his voice was soft, Aizen stared at me with an overwhelming pressure that demanded no excuses.

Kyonosuke: "—Now, I'm going to need you to tell me everything."

And so, I was taken to the Headquarters.

>>> Now

Kyonosuke: "Between this and the incident at the Asakusa Twelve-Stories tower, this has become a major disturbance with several casualties. The newspapers have even issued extras, reporting the culprit as 'Koga Kitamikado.'"

Koga: "...!"

(That’s right... because that person really did look exactly like Koga.)

(But...)

What I remember is what happened right after Aizen brought me to headquarters.

When I was shown into the office, I’m sure I looked up at Aizen and said:

Futaba: "That wasn't Koga! I’m sure it’s the same person responsible for the street killings that happened before!"

Kyonosuke: "We don't have evidence yet. However..."

Aizen answers while letting out a small sigh.

Kyonosuke: "I'm starting to think the same thing."

(It seems Aizen also believes it wasn't Koga’s doing.)

(The problem is how to prove it...)

Then, Koga, who had been silently reading the extra edition of the newspaper, looked up.

Koga: "...I have an idea of who the mastermind behind this incident might be."

Kyonosuke: "And that would be?"

Koga looked straight at Aizen.

Koga: "From here on, I want to talk to you alone."

(!)

(I wonder if Koga intends to talk about Kiryu.)

Kyonosuke: "...Very well. Ichijo."

Ichijo: "Yes, sir!"

Kyonosuke: "Take her to another room. Sorry, Saotome, but I’ll have to ask you to wait there."

Futaba: "...I understand."

Ichijo: "This way, please."

I followed the man called Ichijo toward the office door.

Just before leaving the room, a wave of anxiety washed over me, and I looked back at Kouga-san.

Futaba: "Koga..."

Koga: "It’s okay. Don't worry.”

My favorite gentle-eyed man smiled at me, as if to reassure me.

°°°•••°°°•••°°°

Once the two of them were alone in the room, Koga turned to face Kyonosuke once more.

Koga: "First off, I don’t trust you military guys as far as I can throw you."

Kyonosuke: "……"

Koga: "But, we both want to catch the culprit, don't we? I want to stop those people in the Capital from being put in any more danger. In that regard, our interests are aligned. We should lend each other our strength."

Kyonosuke: “…I see. However, there is something I want to make clear first."

Kyonosuke paused for a beat and stared intently at Koga.

Kyonosuke: "Since that incident... have you ever turned into carnage form again?"

Koga: "…"

Koga stared back at Kyonosuke, as if trying to gauge the true intent behind the question.

Kyonosuke: "There is no clear proof that the man who appeared in Asakusa wasn't actually you. I've been considering the possibility that... the carnage transformation, it happened against your will."

Koga: "... I haven't… not since then."

Kyonosuke: "…Is that so? But if you ever lose control of yourself again……"

Kyonosuke fixed Koga with a piercing, sharp gaze.

Kyonosuke: "—This time, I will cut you down without mercy." (DON'T YOU DARE LAY A FINGER ON HIM😤)

Koga: "…"

For a while, silence filled the room—

Koga: "……Yeah, I understand."

Koga gave only a short reply.

Kyonosuke: "…Good. Now then, shall we get to the main point?"

The atmosphere shifted, and the threatening look in Kyonosuke's eyes softened just a little.

Kyonosuke: "Who is this 'mastermind' you speak of?"

Koga: "It’s likely…… the people from the Kiryu Trading.”

Kyonosuke: "......! The Kiryu Trading, huh?"

As soon as he heard that, Kyonosuke knit his brows in displeasure.

Kyonosuke: "Even the military is aware of their existence. But they are an opponent we can’t carelessly make a move against."

Koga: "......Can't make a move, huh?"

Kyonosuke: "It's partly because they have connections with foreign countries. They’re a troublesome lot."

As Kyonosuke finished saying that, he looked at Koga again.

Kyonosuke: "Regarding this current matter, it seems like their intention is to set you up. Is it a grudge related to your work?"

Koga: "No. Kiryu... to be precise, they don't hate me; they hate my old man."

Koga continued while watching Kyonosuke's reaction.

Koga: "My father was part of the Senkitai”

Kyonosuke: "......"

Kyonosuke’s expression did not change in the slightest.

Koga: "As for how he became a soldier after that... you probably know more about that than I do."

Kyonosuke: "...I suppose so.”

Koga: "Kiryu has actually approached me once before. At that time, he said my father was 'the kind of guy who abandoned his comrades out of a desperate desire to live.' It seems he still hates my father for leaving the Senkitai to become a soldier."

Kyonosuke: "...I see. So it's a feud dating back to your parents' generation..."

Koga: "I’m going to Kobe to settle things with Kiryu once and for all. I want to know why he’s so obsessed with my father and me... if there's something more between them than just 'betrayal'... I’ll meet him again and find out the truth. And I’ll put a stop to this nonsense."

Kyonosuke: "Is he really the type of person you can talk sense into?"

Koga: "I don't know. But..."

Koga: "To make sure there aren't any more useless sacrifices, I have to go to Kobe."

Kyonosuke: "......"

Kyonosuke stared intensely at Koga, then nodded.

Kyonosuke: "...Understood. We will capture the culprit behind today's incident. They should still be in the Capital."

Koga: "Yeah..."

After responding, Koga looked at Kyonosuke intently once more.

Koga: "Aside from that, I have a favor to ask of you."

Kyonosuke: "...?”

Kyonosuke raised his eyebrows slightly and waited for Koga to speak.

CHAPTER 9

The next day, on my way home from school, my feet were once again leading me toward Koga's house.

(Koga told me I didn't have to come every day, but I'm just so worried...)

(Besides, I want to be of help to him in any way I can.)

(...I wonder if there's anything I can do?)

Lost in thought as I walked, I eventually came to a stop in front of a certain shop.

(Oh, that's right. I bought the satchet I gave to Koga from this shop.)

It was a shop that primarily dealt in fragrant wood, and also sold miscellaneous goods made from it.

(...I wonder how Koga's condition is doing?)

(I haven't heard any talk of the carnage form happening since then, and he always seems well, but still...)

Suddenly, someone calls out to her.

??? (Kagari): "Buying a gift for the ‘gentleman’?"

Futaba: "—Eh?"

Turning toward the familiar voice, I saw an unexpected person standing there.

Kagari: "Ah... like, 'Remember me by this scent'? How sweet."

Futaba: "—!"

(He's one of Kiryu’s men... his name was "Kagari," right?)

Futaba: "Wh-what are you doing here?"

Kagari: "Oh? Am I really that scary?"

As I reflexively backed away while asking, Kagari raised both hands with a smile.

Kagari: "You don't need to worry so much. I'm not going to use my powers in a public place like this."

Futaba: "...If it were Koga, it would be different."

Kagari: "I know. Actually, I have business with you today. Could you give me a bit of your time?"

(Even if you ask for my time...)

I instinctively looked around the area.

Kagari: "It's okay. I'm not here on Kiryu's orders today. In fact, I'd rather not be found by Kiryu, to be honest."

(Doesn't want to be found... really?)

Futaba: "...What is this 'business'?"

As I asked while remaining on guard, Kagari broke into a broad grin.

Kagari: "It's about your precious ‘gentleman’.”

>>>>

Kagari: "Now, now, come on, have a seat. Oh, excuse me, miss! One zenzai, please. Without the bean paste."

Proprietress: "Huh?"

The proprietress, coming to take the order, does a double-take at Kagari.

(If he asks for no bean paste... isn't it just going to be plain mochi?)

(Why did we even come to a sweets shop?)

We had arrived at a traditional sweets shop in Asakusa.

Proprietress: "Um, and for you?"

Futaba: "Then, I’ll have a zenzai too… A normal one."

Proprietress: "Understood."

After a short while, the bean-less and normal zenzai are brought to the table.

Kagari: "I see. Here, if you say 'zenzai,' it comes without the soup?"

(...Does he mean it’s different in Kobe?)

(Wait, that doesn't matter right now.)

Futaba: "Um, what was it you wanted to talk about, Kagari?"

Kagari: "Ah, that's right."

Behind his glasses, Kagari's eyes flashed.

Kagari: "Want to make a deal with me?"

(...A "deal"?)

Kagari: "To be blunt, the only one who's actually interested in your 'gentleman' is Kiryu. I couldn't care less about him. It’s no fun chasing some guy's tail all day. We have 'things we need to do.' Normally, we wouldn't even have time to mess around with that guy."

Futaba: "Things you need to do...?"

Kagari: "Didn't Kiryu tell you? About the 'vendetta'. Though 'vendetta' isn't exactly the right way to put it. It’s not like he’s our sworn enemy. Well, what we’re doing is basically the same thing, though."

(The "vendetta" Kiryu mentioned…)

Kiryu: "You've known for a long time, haven't you? Exactly 'what' it was that killed your parents."

(At the very least, Kiryu believes it was the government that killed Koga’s parents.)

(...Which means Kiryu Trading wants to overthrow the government, doesn't it?)

Aki-kun, who caused the 'Red Eyes' incident, also hated the military and the government—in the end, he even released wraiths upon the Headquarters.

(It’s different from the 'revenge' Kiryu talks about, but I wonder if Kiryu has a grudge against the government too.)

Futaba: "Is it really alright for you to be telling me all this?"

Kagari: "Even if you know, it’s not like you have the power to do anything about it, right? Or are you going to go report this to your 'friends' in the military?"

Futaba: "......!"

(He’s even investigated my connection to the military...)

Kagari: "Reporting us won't lead to anything since you don't have a shred of evidence… So, I actually have a favor to ask of you. I want you to tell the ‘gentleman' to team up with us. If you do that, I'll make sure things don't go badly for him."

Futaba: "'Don't go badly'...?"

Kagari: "It means I'll put in a good word with Kiryu so he doesn't lay an unnecessary hand on your man."

(......Which means if things stay as they are, he intends to do something to Koga.)

Futaba: "...why is Kiryu so obsessed with Koga? He mentioned being betrayed by Koga's father... is that the reason?"

Kagari: "Seems that way. I don't really care about some old guys' stories from the past, though."

(...This person really has no interest in Koga at all.)

Kagari: "I just want Kiryu to stop being so obsessed with that guy. Because of that, he keeps saddling me with all this extra work. You want to protect your man. How about it? I think our interests are aligned."

Futaba: "......"

Kagari: "Even he wouldn't be able to refuse a request from the woman he loves. I think this is the way for everything to be settled most peacefully, don't you?"

Futaba: "...Koga refused you clearly back then."

I looked Kagari straight in the eye and spoke firmly.

Futaba: "Koga would never lend his hand to something like that."

Kagari: "......"

The smile vanished from Kagari's face, and he reached for his teacup.

Kagari: "I know.”

Kagari’s fingertips spin his teacup round and round, as if toying with it.

Kagari: "I’ve done quite a bit of digging into your ‘gentleman'. I hear he's incredibly well-loved by the people of the Capital."

Futaba: "...What is it you're trying to say?"

Kagari: "For a businessman, reputation is everything, right? Especially for a man like him, who basically sells himself on his character. But reputation is surprisingly fragile. It takes forever to build up, but it's so easy to just... smash to pieces."

Futaba: "Wh—"

Kagari: "...Well, in his case, he might end up losing something even bigger than his reputation, though."

(...!)

Kagari: "The gentleman’s future is decided by your answer."

Futaba: "...How could you..."

Even though his tone is light, his expression is deadly serious.

(...So the street killings incident really was their doing too?)

(I don't know what they're planning... but there's no doubt it's something bad for Koga.)

Kagari: "I’m not a patient man. Decide right here, right now, what you're going to do."

A chill runs down my spine as I look into his emotionless eyes.

(Even if you tell me to decide...)

It’s as if time has stopped; I can’t speak, I can’t move—I can’t even look away.

Futaba: "..."

Kagari: "..."

For a while, I just keep staring at Kagari as if I've lost my mind—

Futaba: "...I... can't do it."

Before I knew it, the words had left my lips.

(Koga wouldn't want revenge.)

(And I don't want to see him do something like that, either.)

Kagari: "...Oh, really? I thought you, of all people, would understand."

Kagari let out a sigh of disappointment and stood up.

Kagari: "Well, it's the answer you chose for yourself. That's fine, isn't it? But in exchange— You’d better keep your eyes peeled for what’s about to happen."

With those final words, Kagari walked out of the shop.

(What should I do...?)

The moment I was left alone, my hands began to tremble uncontrollably.

(...Because of the way I just answered him, Koga might end up paying the price.)

(No—it’s worse than that. Koga himself could be in real danger.)

There was no longer any doubt: Kiryu and his group are about to make their move.

(...Calm down.)

(First, I have to tell Koga about this...)

I clenched my fists tight, trying to force the shaking to stop. Just then—

???: "Wait, really...!?”

???: "Which way did they run?"

Outside the shop, things suddenly became noisy.

Proprietress: "What's all this? A fight?"

Perhaps noticing it too, the proprietress opened the door halfway and called out to someone passing by.

Proprietress: "Did something happen?"

Man: "They say someone was pushed off the Asakusa Twelve-Stories tower."

Proprietress: "Oh, how awful… Who on earth would do such a thing...?"

Man: "Well, it seems there was someone who witnessed the scene..."

Man: "Apparently, they said he looked a lot like Mr. Kitamikado."

Proprietress: "Mr. Kitamikado?! That can't be right."

(—!)

I could clearly feel the blood draining from my head.

-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-

CHAPTER 10

Around the time Futaba was reuniting with Kagari in the Capital, at the Shrine of hidden god—

Yura: “Sorry to keep you waiting, Koga.”

Emerging from the shrine, Yura handed Koga a medicine that had just been prepared.

Koga: “Thanks.”

Yura: “You’ve been looking quite well lately. Is it that ‘power of love’ I’ve heard about?”

Koga: “Yeah, something like that.”

Koga let out a light chuckle as he took the medicine from the teasing Yura.

Koga: “Well, I’ve finally got a reason not to die so easily. I can’t afford to let something like this hold me back anymore.”

Yura: “......I see.”

A sudden gust of wind blew, and Yura looked up at the sky where the darkness of night was beginning to close in.

Yura: “I hate to dampen the mood at a time like this, but...... you should be a little more careful.”

Koga: “Hm?”

Yura: “Lately, the mountains have been restless. It seems the Ayakashi who usually stay far from human settlements are growing agitated. I cannot help but feel it is a premonition of something terrible to come.”

Koga: “...”

Yura: “I hope it is merely my imagination, but......”

Koga: “No, your gut is right.”

Yura: “What?”

Koga: “It’s already started. And it's going to be a real pain in the ass to deal with.”

Yura looked at Koga with a startled face, then his expression softened slightly.

Yura: “If anything happens, you can tell me anytime. I… and the others will also lend you a hand.”

Koga: “...Yeah. I'll be counting on you then.”

Koga gave a faint smile as he replied to Yura, then raised a hand and began walking away.

—Then, on the path home.

Koga: (—Well, that didn't take long.)

Koga noticed the presence of someone following him and narrowed his eyes slightly.

Koga: (...The vibe is different from when that "Kagari" guy was tailing me. This is pure bloodlust...... and it's not just one person.)

He walk along, pretending not to notice, while focusing all his senses on what is behind him.

Koga: (There are quite a few of them. Are these guys also Kiryu's lackeys?)

Just as that thought crosses my mind and I take another step...

Koga: (—!)

Koga instantly leaps backward as several Kunai thud into the ground where he just stood.

Koga: (...So, they’ve come.)

The shadows of about ten Ayakashi appear.

Koga: "Hey, hey. That's a pretty rough way to say hello. What do you want, exactly?"

Ayakashi 1: "Don't play dumb!"

Blue flames surround Koga, blocking his escape route.

Koga: (Foxfire... no, is it Onibi?)

Ayakashi 1: "Even though you're an Ayakashi, you're out here fawning over humans...!"

Ayakashi 2: "It is common knowledge by now that you are involved in that plan."

Koga: "Plan...?"

Ayakashi 3: "It's no use playing innocent. We know you've been selling out Ayakashi to the government."

Ayakashi 2: "How many of us have been sacrificed for the 'Yuujin'...?!"

Koga: "'Yuujin'... what the hell is that?"

Ayakashi 1: "Curse you, acting so nonchalant!"

Ayakashi 2: "We will never forgive you...!"

The Ayakashi pounce toward Koga all at once—

Koga: "Hey, just listen to—Tsk, doesn't look like you're in the mood to listen!"

Ayakashi 1: "Guh...!"

Koga also transforms and fights back against the Ayakashi with his sword.

Ayakashi 3: "D-Damn it...!"

In the blink of an eye, the Ayakashi are overpowered by Koga, falling to the ground one after another.

Koga: "...Damn it. I ended up knocking them all out."

After defeating the last one, Koga looked around and grumbled.

Koga: "I should’ve left at least one of them standing. Now I can’t get any info out of them."

Koga scratched his head. In the next moment—

???: "—Tsk, what a pathetic sight."

Koga: "…!"

Looking back toward the voice, there stood Kagemaru, puffing on a pipe.

Koga: "You are..."

Kagemaru: "I was looking forward to seeing you go berserk again... but I guess these guys weren't enough to make that happen. Dumbasses, letting themselves get danced around by rumors like that."

Kagemaru looked down at the Ayakashi rolling on the ground with exasperation, then shifted his gaze to Koga.

Kagemaru: "Sorry my people caused you so much trouble."

Koga: "… What do you mean by 'your people'? Weren't you the Ayakashi contracted to Akiyasu?"

Kagemaru: "Ah... come to think of it, I never did properly introduce myself, did I? Name's Kagemaru, Jorōgumo spider woman. Leader of the Senkitai."

Koga: "The Senkitai... if I recall, they're..."

Kagemaru: "I'm sure even you've heard the name before. An Ayakashi organization plotting to overthrow the state, an anti-government force... Well, people say all sorts of things about us. None of those labels are exactly wrong, though. Most of my guys are just a bunch of folks who harbor a grudge against the government and the military. These guys are the same. That’s why they fell for the rumors and attacked you."

Koga: "…What was that talk earlier about a 'plan' and ‘Yuujin’?"

Kagemaru: "It's a secret military project to strengthen the army. It's been in the works for years."

Koga: "Strengthening the army……?"

Kagemaru: "You were cozying up to the military, yet you didn't even know about this? ‘Yuujin' are semi-immortal soldiers created by embedding Ayakashi cells into humans. By incorporating those cells, they’ve made it possible for humans to have physical abilities beyond normal limits and incredible healing powers. 'No personality, no emotions, and eternally loyal to the commander's orders'—apparently, that's what the creators are most proud of."

Kagemaru let out a low chuckle as smoke drifted from his pipe.

Kagemaru: "While you guys were playing nice with Akiyasu, the military folk were busy treating Ayakashi like nothing more than food.”

Koga: (Incredible healing powers... Loyal to orders?)

Kyonosuke: "—Kill them."

Soldiers: "......"

Koga: "Those guys, huh..."

Kagemaru: "Looks like you have at least some idea who they are, don't you?"

Koga: "...Yeah, I guess. But I don't recall ever being told I was involved in something like that."

Kagemaru: "I figured as much. The one who spread the rumors is that bastard."

Koga raises an eyebrow as if he realized it immediately this time.

Koga: "You mean Kiryu? You know him too?"

Kagemaru: "...Yeah. He’s a former member of the Senkitai."

Koga: "......!"

Kagemaru: "Mind you, he left the Senkitai before I was even born."

Having said that, Kagemaru slowly approached Koga.

Kagemaru: "His recent movements have been bothering me. So, I took the liberty of looking into things, including stuff about you. Want me to tell you why that bastard is pulling this kind of stunt on you?"

Kagemaru exhales smoke with a smirk.

Kagemaru: "It's because your father was the first leader of the Senkitai."

Koga: "...!"

Kagemaru: "The Senkitai has a bit of history itself, you see. It all started back in the Bakumatsu (the final years of the Edo period). At first, it seems they got along quite well with humans. After all, they were a volunteer army of patriots fighting on the side of what is now the government."

Kagemaru curls the corner of his mouth in a teasing way.

Kagemaru: "Have you heard the story about how the Senkitai contributed to the Meiji Restoration long ago?"

Koga: "...I know at least that they were on the side of the New Government when they were first formed."

Kagemaru: "That's exactly right. The Restoration wasn't accomplished by the Satsuma and Choshu clans alone. A volunteer army where Ayakashi gathered across tribal lines under the ambition of creating a new world—that was the Senkitai. They fought with the strength of 'a thousand Ayakashi,' achieving great military feats and contributing to the Restoration. And the one leading that Senkitai was your father."

Koga: "..."

Kagemaru: "But after the Restoration, the government turned its back on them. They decided that in a new era, the existence of Ayakashi was just a nuisance. The Senkitai were branded as 'enemies of the state.' Every last one of them was captured and thrown into prison. Far from being rewarded for their service, their very existence was about to be erased."

Koga: "…"

Without a single tremor, Koga listens to Kagemaru’s words.

Kagemaru: "However, the government offered the Senkitai just one condition. They said—'If you abandon your identity as an Ayakashi, followed us, and become soldiers, we will spare your lives.'"

Koga: "…"

Kagemaru: "Your old man accepted those terms. To stay alive, he threw away his pride as an Ayakashi and abandoned his comrades. The rest of those who were left behind eventually managed to break out of prison and rebuilt the Senkitai. The second-generation leader was my father, who brought them together... but it seems things didn't go as smoothly as they did with the first leader. A few people who were disillusioned by the first leader's actions left the Senkitai back then. Kiryu was one of those who defected."

Koga: "…"

Kagemaru: "Your father was apparently a man of great popularity and charisma. It’s an unacceptable story, isn't it? The leader they all looked up to was the first one to turn tail and run like a coward."

Exhaling a long breath of smoke, Kagemaru looks at Koga, who stands there in a daze.

Kagemaru: "I bet that bastard still hasn't forgiven your father for what he did."

Koga: "…"

Without showing any outward emotion, Koga clenched his fist so hard it shook.

CHAPTER 7

Koga’s usual fearless expression has finally returned, and it makes me happy too.

Koga: "But if Kiryu finds out I’m on the move, you might be in danger again. Once we're back in to Capital, for a little while, we should keep our distance—"

Futaba: "I... I refuse!"

(I had a faint feeling he might say something like that.)

(But I absolutely hate that...!)

Futaba: "Please let me help too. I’ll protect myself."

Koga: "...Keeping our distance is just a precaution until we know more. I'm not saying we should be apart forever."

Futaba: "They already know about me. Wouldn't it be the same even if we kept our distance now? If you’re going to investigate, I’m doing it with you.”

Koga was silent for a moment, then let out a sigh of resignation.

Koga: "...Well, it's not like they didn't go out of their way to come all the way to the Capital to check on us anyway. If I want to protect you, I guess I've got no choice but to have you hide somewhere..."

A slightly teasing tone mixed into Koga’s voice.

Koga: "The trouble is, the woman I fell in love with isn't the type to just sit quietly and hide."

Futaba: "That... That's exactly right."

Koga: "In that case, I guess it’s better if I just keep you by my side?"

Futaba: "...! You mean...!"

Koga: "Yeah, I give up. You win. I’ll have you help me too."

(Thank goodness...!)

As I let out a sigh of relief, Koga gave a wry smile again.

Koga: "Why are you relieved? I've gone and dragged you into this."

Futaba: "I’m happy. To be able to shoulder something together with you, Koga. Besides, isn't it frustrating to think we'd have to be apart just because of those people?"

Koga: "Haha, you've got a point there."

Koga held my hand and squeezed it.

Koga: "But don't go charging off on your own. If anything happens, make sure you tell me.”

Futaba: "I understand."

I can feel Koga’s warmth through our tightly clasped hands.

(As long as I have this warmth, I have nothing to fear.)

With that thought, I leaned my head against Koga’s shoulder once more.

<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>

——On the outskirts of the Imperial Capital, at the Senkitai hideout.

Kagemaru: "Regarding that matter... has there been a reply?"

Zantetsu: "No, not yet..."

When Zantetsu shook his head apologetically, Kagemaru let out a loud click of his tongue.

Kagemaru: "That bastard, he’s really making us wait."

Zantetsu: "I don’t really understand how those guys in the West think."

Kagemaru: "If it were just about their way of thinking, it wouldn’t be so bad..."

Kagemaru: "But it’s always been the same with them—their only reason for moving is money and vested interests."

Zantetsu: "Money, is it...?"

Kagemaru: "They’re a practical bunch—excessively so... but lately, something feels off."

Kagemaru exhales a cloud of smoke, looking lost in thought.

Kagemaru: "...Fine. We’ll watch how things go a bit longer."

Zantetsu: "Understood."

As Zantetsu started to leave the parlor, he turned back to Kagemaru as if remembering something.

Zantetsu: "Speaking of 'off,' I’ve heard some strange rumors lately myself."

Kagemaru: "Rumors?"

Zantetsu: "Yes. It’s separate from the matter in the West... but I thought I should let you know, Kagemaru."

Zantetsu: "It’s a story that also involves that plan—"

Kagemaru: "......"

Upon hearing the "rumor" Zantetsu spoke of, Kagemaru’s brow twitched and furrowed.

<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>

A few days after returning to the Imperial Capital, I visited Koga’s house on my way home from school.

(Nothing particularly unusual has happened since coming back from Kobe... but just to be safe.)

When I was shown into the living room, Kuya, who had been lying down, turned to look at me.

Kuya: "...Haven't you been coming here every day lately?"

Futaba: "And you're still taking naps every day, Kuya."

Kuya: "...I change the location, at least.”

When I couldn't help but laugh at Kuya's answer, I heard another voice laughing along.

Koga: "You're back again, Futaba?"

Futaba: "Koga...!"

Koga: "You don't need to worry so much. Nothing new happened. You've got school, too. You don't have to push yourself to come here every day".

Futaba: "I'm not pushing myself. Even if nothing happened yesterday, something might happen today. Besides, I..."

As soon as I start to say it, I suddenly feel embarrassed and my voice grows small.

Futaba: "I-I mean, I want to... see you every day, Koga..."

Kuya: "...Could you guys not say that while I'm actually here?"

Koga: "You could always take the hint and leave us alone, Kuya".

Kuya: "For the record, I was the one napping here first".

Kuya sat up and tilted his head at the bundle of papers Koga was holding.

Kuya: "What's that?"

Koga: "Stuff from when I was looking into my old man a while back. I dug it out".

Kuya: "...Right. What was that guy's name... Kyuri...?"

Futaba: "It's Kiryu".

Kuya: "Ah, that's it. Is this about the connection to that guy?"

Koga: "Yeah. I figured I might have forgotten something, and that it might be written down somewhere, but... Even looking through it again, his name doesn't show up anywhere".

Futaba: "I see..."

Koga: "Then again, most of the info here is from after my dad joined the military. As I thought, it's probably better to start looking into things from further back... before he joined the military".

(Thinking: Before the military... but that'll be hard if we don't have any leads.)

Futaba: "...Are there still people in the military who knew your father, Koga? Maybe you could try asking them if they know anything...?"

Koga: "There are a few people who come to mind... but they probably aren't reliable. Just looking into things regarding my old man has been a massive pain in the neck. This is a matter the government is desperately trying to hide. Unless it's someone reasonably well-versed in internal affairs, I doubt they’d have any reliable information."

Futaba: "I see..."

Then, Kuya, who had been listening to the conversation, muttered quietly.

Kuya: "...Then, what about that guy?"

Futaba: "Eh?"

Kuya: "The soldier in the white clothes."

Futaba: "Ah...! Do you mean Aizen?"

Koga: "Aizen, huh… Even if he is a Major, he's still young. I wonder if he even knows about my old man..."

Having said that much, Koga suddenly stopped mid-sentence.

Koga: "No, wait—"

Maid: "Pardon me for interrupting your conversation. A guest has arrived, how should I proceed?"

Koga: "A guest? I shouldn't have any business meetings scheduled for today... Who is it?"

Maid: "Well, it is a person who calls himself as Aizen..."

At the name that came from the maid's mouth, we looked at each other. Aizen, who entered the room, was wearing a casual kimono rather than his usual military uniform.

Futaba: "...It has been a long time."

Koga: "Well, quite the unusual guest we have here."

Kuya: (Yawns)

Kuya yawned, while Koga rested his elbows on his knees and glared at Aizen.

Koga: "What brings you all the way here? Did you come to offer an apology?" (Damn, bro hates him 😭)

Futaba: "K-Koga..."

Kyōnosuke: "I figured you would say that."

Aizen didn't seem to mind and continued in his usual tone.

Kyōnosuke: "I am grateful that you brought the 'Red Eyes' matter to a close. However, it is a fact that you acted independently, contrary to our wishes. ...Including the fact that you couldn't control your power and let it run wild."

Koga: "......"

Kyōnosuke: "It is also our job to be wary of those who possess too much power. I would appreciate it if you could understand that.”

Koga: "...So what you’re saying is, you can’t offer an apology just on your own authority?"

Kyōnosuke: "......"

Koga: "......"

For a second, tension spiked—then Koga exhaled sharply, as if to break the mood first.

Koga: "...Well, I guess it's thanks to that 'discretion' of yours that we were let off the hook."

(...It’s true that the military hasn't said a word to us since then.)

Koga: "...So, what do you want this time?"

Kyōnosuke: "I’m off duty today. I’d like you to listen to this as a personal matter between us… A few days ago, a strange incident occurred in the city."

Futaba: "An incident?"

Kyōnosuke: "In the middle of the night, a certain street performer was cut down. The culprit hasn't been caught. Nothing of value was stolen, and the motive for the killing is unknown."

Koga: "...Street killings in this day and age?"

(Street killings... I've only ever heard of those in old stories or plays.)

Kyōnosuke: "There is witness testimony of a person's shadow seen immediately after the incident. A young man with dark hair and a red kimono—and strangely enough, they say two horns were growing from his forehead."

Futaba: "......! You don't say...!"

Kyōnosuke: "Yeah."

Aizen nodded and looked at Koga once more.

Kyōnosuke: "He sounds a lot like you."

Koga: "...”

°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•

CHAPTER 8

Aizen mentioned that the description of the street-slashing culprit "looks like Koga."

Koga: "…And?"

Koga doesn't seem particularly shaken; he looks Aizen straight in the eye.

Koga: "At the very least, you didn't come here to arrest me, did you? If that were your intention, you wouldn't come here alone, unarmed, without any subordinates."

(…Oh, that’s true. If he suspected us, he could have just summoned Koga or me to Headquarters.)

Kyōnosuke: "…Well, if you were the culprit, the case would have been solved quickly. We know you were at an evening party the night those incidents occurred. Based on the time, it's highly unlikely it was your doing.”

Koga: "But since the Onikiri are reacting, you’re concluding that an Ayakashi is involved, right?"

Kyōnosuke: "The culprit's characteristics certainly match those of an Oni. However... you aren't necessarily the only Oni around."

Futaba: "...In other words, are you asking us to help you again?"

(Is he telling us to become bait or something like that...?)

Kyōnosuke: "No. For now, I have no plans to ask for your help. It’s not like a wraith has appeared or anything."

Kuya: "...Eh, then what did you actually come here for?"

Kūya tilts his head suspiciously, while Aizome gives a wry smile.

Kyōnosuke: "Just to chat. Didn't I tell you I'm off duty today?”

Koga: "......"

Kyōnosuke: "Even if it's not a wraith, it’s a fact that suspicious incidents are happening in the Capital again. Moreover, if it's indiscriminate 'street slashing', there's a high possibility it will be repeated."

At that, Aizen shifted his gaze toward me.

Kyōnosuke: "At the very least, I thought you all would want to know."

(Ah...)

Futaba: "...The reason I decided to fight wraiths was to save my father. But... It's different now. After meeting everyone, gaining people I care about, and learning about the feelings of so many… I want to protect this Capital where those people live—that's how I feel now."

Kyōnosuke: "..."

(I wonder if Aizen remembered what I said back then?)

Kyōnosuke: "—Also, this is just my personal opinion… I don't think the culprit is necessarily an 'Oni'."

Futaba: "Eh?"

Kyōnosuke: "If Ayakashi are involved, we can't judge based on appearance alone. Some have the power to mimic the form of others. Even if that were the case, there might be a reason why they chose a form that's so obviously an 'Oni'."

(A reason... wait, could they be trying to frame Koga? But if that's true, it would have to be someone who knows Koga is an Ayakashi. The person who comes to mind is the one Koga just had a conflict with recently… "Kiryu Trading"... if it's them, they would definitely know he's an 'Oni'. But for what purpose...?)

Koga: "...Sorry, but I don't have any lead on who the culprit might be."

Kyōnosuke: "I see."

Aizen stands up, giving a reply that suggests he didn't expect much of an answer anyway.

Kyōnosuke: "That's all for now. Excuse me."

Koga: "..."

Koga watched Aizen’s back as he left the room, then stood up himself.

Futaba: "Koga?"

Koga: "I'll be right back. You guys wait here.”

Koga headed toward the entrance as if chasing after Aizen, leaving Kuya and me behind in the living room.

Kuya: "..."

Futaba: "...Aizen actually came here to give Koga a warning, didn't he?"

(Aizen probably didn't think Koga was the culprit from the very beginning. He was trying to tell him that there's someone out there trying to pin the crime on him.)

Kuya: "...Being a military man seems like a real pain, doesn't it?"

After saying that, Kuya lay back down again.

Futaba: "Was this also a setup by Kiryu? Trying to make Koga look like a criminal...?"

Kuya: "...Who knows. I wouldn't go that far. I wonder if they even have a fun reason for doing something like that."

(True... even if it was Kiryu, I don't understand his motive. But Aizen did say that something similar might happen again.)

It’s frustrating that I want to do something about this quickly, yet I haven’t been able to find a single clue.

Futaba: "Kiryu originally approached Koga about avenging his father. But he also said that he was betrayed by Koga’s father... I just don't understand what that means.”

Kuya: "…"

Then, Kuya, letting out a yawn, suddenly murmured:

Kuya: "...If Teach’ was here, he might have been able to tell us something.”

(Teach’, the person who took Koga in...?)

I've heard he was the person who raised Koga after he lost his parents, and that Kuya, Toichiro, and Shizuki all used to live together with him long ago.

(I see. If Teach’ took Koga in, then maybe he was also an acquaintance of Koga’s father.)

Futaba: "...Kuya, do you know any of Teach's friends? Or maybe someone who might know about Koga's father's past...?"

Kuya: "I don't know anyone. Teach’ was just 'Teach’'—he was a man of many mysteries. Besides, he lived as a recluse deep in the mountains."

Futaba: "Was there anyone who ever came to visit him there...?"

Kuya: "...At least during the time I was there, no one ever came. Teach’ never talked about the past at all. So, I don't know."

Futaba: "I see..."

(I suppose if such a person existed, Koga would have looked into it a long time ago.)

Kuya: "...Maybe it was intentional."

Futaba: "Eh?"

Kuya: "He wasn't the type to talk about this or that to begin with, so we didn't really pay it any mind, but… maybe the truth is, he purposely made sure we didn't know anything unnecessary."

(Was there a reason he didn't tell Koga or Kuya about the past...?)

Kuya: "Well, I wouldn't know. Teach’ isn't around anymore, anyway. Yawn (Fuwaa...)"

Having said that, Kuya closed his eyes and began to doze off.

<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>

Leaving Kuya and Futaba in the living room, Koga called out to Kyōnosuke, who was about to leave through the entrance.

Koga: "Hey, wait up."

Kyōnosuke: "……?"

Koga: "There’s something I want to ask you.”

Kyōnosuke: "......"

Koga paused for a moment, then looked Kyōnosuke straight in the eye as he turned around.

Koga: "You know something about my old man?”

Kyōnosuke: "Your father?"

Koga: "You said before that you'd 'heard the name before.'"

Kyōnosuke: "Kitamikado... Yes, that's a name I have indeed heard. To be a soldier yet turn against the government—that is why your parents were killed.”

Koga: "My father was killed because he turned against the government... you definitely said that, didn't you."

Kyōnosuke: "...”

Koga: "Back then, I was just a little kid. I still don't know the real reason my parents were killed. What do you mean by 'turned against'? What exactly did my father do to get himself killed?"

Kyōnosuke: "..."

Kyōnosuke stared at Koga, eventually letting out a sigh.

Kyōnosuke: "...Back then, I had only just entered the military academy myself. I wasn't directly involved in your father's case. I only heard the stories later on."

Koga: "...In other words, it was an incident so big that word reached your ears even though it happened so long ago?"

Kyōnosuke: "Regarding that, there is nothing more I can tell you."

Koga: "......”

Kyōnosuke: "If you’re trying to dig into your father’s past, you’d be better off stopping. There are some things you are better off not knowing. For your own sake, and for your comrades’ as well."

Koga: "...Look, I don't give a damn about the old man's past. Knowing the circumstances of how they were killed isn't gonna bring my father or mother back. But, if the reason behind it is putting the people I care about in danger, that's a different story. I want to know my father's past so I can protect them. If I stay in the dark, I can't protect anything."

Kyōnosuke: "... I am sorry I cannot meet your expectations, but I cannot tell you from my own lips."

Koga: "... Fine then. I'll just do things my own way."

Koga turned his back on Kyōnosuke and headed back into the house.