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That day. What Kimika always called 'that day'... I don't remember the exact date... Well, that's actually a lie. I even remember the exact time when it happened. But I pretend like I don't remember. I like to mess with Kimika by playing dumb. Kimika wants me to feel responsible for it until I die. She doesn't want me to abandon her until I die... She wants to be together... until the end. Well, that's not important right now. This is, in my opinion... The most important day for us. Kimika: Ah... Zakuro. Zakuro: Kimika... I was looking for you. Kimika: Looking for me * I was at my club. You could've come to the clubroom if you wanted."* Zakuro: But you're in two of them, so I didn't know which one to go to. Kimika: Okay, but more importantly, what have you been doing while waiting? You're not in any clubs. Zakuro: I... I, uh... I laughed and tried to play it off... Though it's not like I needed to hide it. Kimika: The rooftop again, huh? Zakuro: Rooftop? The rooftop? Oh, so she thinks I went to see Mamiya-kun... Kimika: ... I don't really understand her. At first she was always telling me to go see him... But since summer break started, she's gotten really upset any time she's heard about me talking to him. Which one is it... That's what I want to ask her. Jeez... Zakuro: What's wrong? Are you in a bad mood? Kimika: Not at all. O-Oh... She really is in a bad mood... Jeez, Kimika... What's the problem? Kimika: I'm not mad, but... it's like, we can finally see each other again now that summer break is over, but you're... Zakuro: You don't like me talking to Mamiya-kun all the time? Kimika: Th-That's not it, i-it's just... I know how you feel about him, so I know why you're prioritizing him, but... She was misunderstanding something. She must have thought that my relationship with Mamiya-kun changed over the summer. But nothing like that happened. I just had a normal summer. I never met up with Mamiya-kun... I just spent my summer studying. Zakuro: If you wanted to see me that badly, you could have called me during the summer. Kimika: Maybe, but.. * I-I was trying not to get in your way..."* I don't feel that way about Mamiya-kun anymore. Why would she need to worry about getting in my way? Zakuro: What did you do during your summer break? Kimika: Nothing... I went to summer school, and I studied at home. Zakuro: I see... Well, graduation is pretty soon, but still, you must really like to study. Kimika: I-I don't like studying * It's just something I have to do. Learning about science has been particularly useful, you know..."* Zakuro: Ahaha... I know exactly what you mean. Kimika: Though the humanities aren't good for anything. They're useless even after graduation. Zakuro: What? Are you making fun of the humanities? Kimika: Yeah, more or less * Mamiya-kun likes that crap, doesn't he?"* Zakuro: Math seems to be his forte... Kimika: What forte? All his grades are bad. Mamiya-kun's grades certainly were bad at the beginning of the semester. But his grades had been way better than Kimika's on all the tests since this semester started, especially in math. Zakuro: Well, your grades are good, but... Kimika: What is it? Zakuro: I don't like it when you make fun of people like that. Kimika: Wh-What do you mean * It's not like I'm making fun of you..."* Zakuro: That's not the problem. Kimika: Oh, I guess you don't like to hear me say bad things about Mamiya-kun, huh? Zakuro: That's not it... You shouldn't say bad stuff about anyone else either. Kimika: Why? Zakuro: Because you're so kind, and yet you always talk like that... Everyone assumes you're a bad person because you do that. Kimika: Who cares... They can think whatever they want. Zakuro: Does that mean I can think whatever I want too? Kimika: Wh-Why would you say that? Zakuro: You're saying you don't care if I dislike you, right? Kimika: Th-That would be a problem... for me. Zakuro: For you? Kimika: Ah! Kimika: A-Anyway, I don't care what strangers think, but you're not a stranger! Zakuro: Then what am I? Kimika: Eh * U-Um..."* Wh-Why is her face getting all red? Zakuro: We're... friends, right? Kimika: Oh, y-yeah, that's right * We're friends, so we can talk bad about other people! Or rather, I can't help talking like that! That's just my nature!"* Zakuro: Of course you can help it. You can't get rid of bad habits if you don't work to correct them. Kimika: ... Zakuro: So let's try to fix that bad habit. Kimika: All right... If you insist, I'll be more careful about what I say. Zakuro: Why are you acting so rude? You really must be in a bad mood after all. Kimika: Why would I be in a bad mood?! Zakuro: It's pretty obvious right now... Kimika: But we haven't seen each other for so long, and you... Zakuro: You're in a bad mood because I went to see someone else even though we haven't seen each other in a while? Kimika: Y-You went to see someone?! Kimika: S-So you did... You were with him... No, it's not like I was with him... Is that what Kimika thought? I kind of wanted to ask what she's thinking. Kimika: Haa... So * How was it?"* Zakuro: How was what? Kimika: I'm talking about Mamiya, of course. Zakuro: Uh, nothing really happened. Kimika: Wh-Why? You two have kissed by now, right? She really was misunderstanding something. I didn't feel that way about him anymore. Zakuro: You know... I've said this a few times already, but I don't really... Kimika: Like I said, you should stop trying to hide it. You're just making excuses for yourself. Wh-What? I'm not making an excuse... And just what does she think we did? She's starting to get on my nerves... I should tease her a bit. Zakuro: But I've never kissed anyone before. I don't even know how you're supposed to do it... Kimika: You just have to put your lips together... It's simple! Zakuro: Oh... So you've done it before? Kimika: Eh? M-Me? Zakuro: Yes, you... You could only say that if you've kissed someone before, right? Kimika: Eh, um... Well... Zakuro: Oh? Were you showing off even though you had never done it yourself? Kimika: D-Don't underestimate me * I've had at least one kiss before, or at least half a kiss..."* What's half a kiss? You're getting ahead of yourself, Kimika... Zakuro: Oh... So you have kissed someone... Kimika: Y-Yeah, I have... Zakuro: Then show me. Kimika: Eh? Zakuro: Show me how it's done. Kimika: Like I can show you that! Kimika: I happen to be single right now, for complicated reasons. Zakuro: That's right... But I wonder if you're telling the truth. As far as I've heard, you've never had a boyfriend before. Kimika: Ugh... Zakuro: What kind of person were you dating? You should be able to tell me that, if you've kissed someone before, right? Kimika: Uh... I-I can... Zakuro: Oh... What kind of person was it that you kissed? Kimika: Kind of... Kind of like... a boy * And why do you care?! Why should I tell you that?!"* Zakuro: It just seemed like you were lying... That's all. Kimika: N-No way! That's rude! Zakuro: Hmm, okay... I understand. Kimika: What? You don't believe me at all, do you?! Zakuro: That's not what I mean. I'm just saying you can't prove it. Well, don't worry about it. Zakuro: Now I understand... You're always going on about science, science, but you don't care about actually proving the things you say. Kimika: What?! Do you want to do an experiment to prove me wrong, then?! Zakuro: Prove you wrong? Kimika: ...Ah. Kimika: Oh, no, it's nothing... Forget I said anything. Her face suddenly reddened. Zakuro: Hmm? What? Kimika: Oh, uh... It's nothing * Really, it's nothing... Ahaha."* She looked away. What's she thinking? Wait... O-Oh... By experiment, she means... Zakuro: U-Um, I'm sorry. I said too much... I felt embarrassed too. Then Kimika... Kimika: Um, Zakuro, are you sure you don't want to, uh... do a kissing experiment, or maybe practice? Zakuro: Eh? Kimika: Oh, uh.. * you said something about an experiment, so I just wanted to ask... Ahaha. Don't worry about it."* Zakuro: A kissing experiment... Practice kissing... No, it's not like I'd be practicing to kiss someone else, so I can't really call it practice. Kimika doesn't know, but that would be my first kiss. It's not just practice for me. She said it so casually, too... Zakuro: A-All right... Show me, then. Kimika: Eh? W-With you? Zakuro: Is there someone else you'd like to kiss to demonstrate? Kimika: No way! Kimika: I-If it's you, then... Zakuro: Then you can do it? Kimika: Y-Yeah... There's no way we could actually do it, though... We're both girls. She's just being stubborn. Kimika: Y-You really don't mind? Zakuro: Eh? Kimika: L-Like I said, is it really okay if I kiss you? Zakuro: Uh, s-sure... Huh? It wasn't just a joke? Or is she still being stubborn? Zakuro: U-Um... Kimika: Eh? Wh-What? Huh?! Why is she tearing up? Um, could she be... There's no way she's really going to kiss me, right? Zakuro: U-Um, are you being serious? Kimika: Eh? Oh, uh... Ah, uh, um... Wh-What? Why are we talking about this? Um, um... We were talking about practicing or experimenting, or something like that... I only egged her on because I thought there was no way we would ever actually do it. N-Now my heart's thumping too... Why's that? W-Wasn't it all a joke? A-After all, this is my best friend, and she's a girl... She was my ally when we fought the bullies, and... uh... I shouldn't be getting nervous about this. But a kiss? Zakuro: Um, an experiment? You mean, you're going to kiss me? Kimika: Oh, uh.. * I'm just saying, sometimes people practice with their friends. Something like that, ahaha..."* Kimika: Oh * Haven't you ever read any magazines like that? They always talk about girls practicing with their friends. Ahaha, it's not a big deal at all."* Zakuro: W-Well, I've heard of it before, but I wonder if that's true. Kimika: Wh-Who knows... I'm kind of curious myself... Zakuro: Yeah... I'd definitely read about it in a magazine before. There was a reader submission where someone said they practiced kissing with one of their friends... So maybe it's not that strange after all... Kimika certainly is my best friend... Maybe it wouldn't affect our friendship at all if we did something like that... And yet... Zakuro: U-Um... Uh. My heart was beating wildly in my chest. What... What is this feeling? Kimika: Sorry... That's pretty gross, huh? Zakuro: Eh? N-Not at all! Kimika: Eh? Zakuro: Ah... We were alone in the evening classroom, but my voice echoed in the hallway. Zakuro: Uh, I really like you, so it's not really gross at all... We're friends, aren't we? Kimika: A-Ahaha.. * Y-Yeah, we're friends."* Zakuro: A-And I was the one who brought it up... Kimika: Um.. * Can I take that as an okay?"* I could hear her heart beating in her chest. Her face was red, like she had just run a marathon. Maybe my face looks the same... Zakuro: Probably... Zakuro: It's just an experiment, right? Kimika: Oh, y-yeah * It's just an experiment... I didn't even need to ask, huh..."* Zakuro: Ah, yeah. Kimika: W-Well.. * is it okay if I go ahead and do it?"* Zakuro: Yeah... Kimika: Well then... I'm beginning the experiment. Zakuro: Oh, s-sure... Her hand touched mine... I could feel it quivering, and it was covered in sweat. We looked into each other's eyes. Kimika: U-Um, could you close your eyes? Zakuro: Eh? Kimika: I don't think I can kiss you if you keep looking at me like that... Zakuro: Oh, o-okay... You're supposed to close your eyes when you kiss someone... I shouldn't have stared like that. Zakuro: A-Ahaha... This is the first time I've ever seen your face from so close. Kimika: Y-Yeah... I've never seen your face this close either... As I looked at her, I couldn't help thinking... She really is cute, isn't she? She probably got bullied by Akasaka-san specifically because she was so cute... There's no other explanation. Kimika: U-Um, could you close your eyes? Zakuro: Oh, okay... I closed my eyes, just like she told me to. Her fingers dug into my hand. I felt her breath... I'd never felt anything like that before. My teeth started chattering out of nervousness. Kimika: Mm... Zakuro: Ah... Kimika: U-Um... Zakuro? Zakuro: Wh-What? Kimika: I-I can't kiss you when your mouth is so tightly closed. Zakuro: Should I... open my mouth? Kimika: No, you don't need to open it, but if you could let go of the tension in your lips... I think it would work better that way... Zakuro: Oh, sure... Got it. It would work better that way, huh? I slowly parted my lips. Kimika: Mm... Mm... Zakuro: Mm! Mm... Her tongue darted into my mouth. I'd never felt anything like that... I couldn't believe a kiss could feel so good. Her tongue was so warm and soft. Zakuro: Mm, ah... Kimika: H-How was it? Zakuro: Eh? U-Um... It's over already? Zakuro: I'm... not sure yet... Kimika: Really? Zakuro: Yeah. I know it feels good, but I'm not sure if I understand how you're supposed to do it yet. Kimika: O-Oh, I was pretty much just kissing you, huh? Okay then, you kiss me this time. Zakuro: Kiss you? Kimika: Yeah... You kiss me... Zakuro: S-Sure... I slowly moved my face closer to hers. She closed her eyes... Maybe I was supposed to close my eyes at this part too, but I wasn't used to this. It seemed like we're going to hit noses if I wasn't careful. I looked at her face until the last moment. Soft skin, and beautiful lips... I wanted to kiss her more. Our lips came together again with a muted sound. The soft sensation of our lips touching. Our bodies drew closer. As we pressed our lips and bodies together, our warmth seemed to melt into one. Kimika's tongue danced and twined itself around mine... I heard the sound of our saliva mixing and the sound of our tongues caressing each other. Kimika: Mm... Mm... She pushed her tongue deep inside my mouth. Her lips didn't show any sign of drawing away from mine. Quite the opposite... We began to kiss even more violently than before. I wanted to feel her more... I wanted to be closer to her... That's what my instincts told me. At the very least, in that moment, I didn't know what to call my feelings for her. My instincts just urged me to keep going, to keep kissing. Zakuro: Mm... Mm... Kimika: Mm... Mm.. We kissed and kissed, seemingly for an eternity... Kimika: Z-Zakuro... are you... Zakuro: Huh? Zakuro: Ah, i-it's just... Kimika: I-I'm sorry... I'm sorry. I can't stop myself. Zakuro: Eh? Y-You can't stop yourself? Kimika: I-I've... been holding myself back. I told myself I could never do this with you, but now I can't stop. Zakuro: Whoa, w-wait, Kimika! Kimika: Sorry, I know you have Mamiya, but... I know you have him, but... I'm sorry. I'm sorry, but I've always... Zakuro: Um, th-that's not the real problem here... Kimika: I'm sorry... You'll probably hate me for this, but I can't keep holding myself back, Zakuro. Zakuro: Mm?! Mm... Kimika: Mm... Zakuro, I love you. I love you... Mm... Mm... I'm sorry... I always thought she was small and weak, but when she held me down, I couldn't stop her. She was crying... Why would she cry while doing this? There's nothing to cry about... Kimika... what were you holding back? What is it you always wanted? I wanted to ask her that, but her lips never left mine. She didn't even let me ask that question. Kimika, you don't need to cry... I don't understand, but if you were holding back for my sake, I'll do anything for you. Because you're... the best friend I've ever had. We kissed for a long time. I felt her tears running down my face... I just closed my eyes and let her do as she pleased. She put her hand on my blouse. She kept touching my chest. She kept fondling my chest, even though she always seemed so upset about it before. Kimika: Zakuro... I'm sorry... She started undoing the buttons on my blouse... and her other hand moved toward my thighs. She moved her hand up my thighs, almost touching my underwear, then lifted my skirt. She wanted to touch my body... But I wanted to be closer and closer to her. I wanted to touch more of her body as well. Her hand slowly, intently moved from my thigh to the bottom of my underwear. Like she was checking the feeling of my body, over and over... Kimika: Your boobs really are big, aren't they? She buried her face in my chest. Kimika: I don't want to give you away to that bastard Mamiya... Kimika: I might not be as strong as him, but someday, I'll be stronger. Someday I'll be able to protect you, so... so... Zakuro: Ah, ah. She put her lips on one of my nipples. Kimika: Mm... Your chest is so big... and soft... and you smell good... Mm... Zakuro: Ah... N-No, Kimika... D-Don't touch me there... Kimika: No way. I'm not stopping now... I want your everything. Not just your chest, but here too. Zakuro: Ah! Her hand touched my underwear. A strange feeling I'd never felt before resounded throughout my brain. Zakuro: Ah, ah... Kimika: Your thighs, and your underwear... I can't believe how soft they are... and warm, too... I love you, Zakuro. I won't let anyone else have you. Kimika brought her face back to my breasts and started licking them. Zakuro: Ah, ah... No... Her tongue really felt good. It was soft and warm. Zakuro: Ah, ah... I could tell that my nipples were hard. Zakuro: Haa... Ahh... Mm... My body just reacted to the pleasure... I could tell that Kimika felt the same way from the warmth of her body and her hot, ragged breathing. Kimika took my empty hand and placed it on her thigh. I felt her smooth skin on my palm. Her thighs felt wet... and when I moved my hand further up, I felt an incredible heat radiating from her crotch. Then... She pressed my hand into her crotch. She guided my hand... and my finger moved in from the side of her underwear. It was unbelievably wet. My finger slipped in without any resistance at all. Then I touched her clitoris... Kimika: Mmhaa! Her body trembled at my touch. Kimika: Look, I'm already so wet. I can hardly believe it. When I looked down at my hand... I noticed that her crotch was so damp it looked like she had wet herself. Kimika: Sorry I'm such a freak... I'm sorry your friend is such a pain... Sorry... Kimika: Pch... Mm... She didn't give me a chance to reply at all. I actually enjoyed it, but she wouldn't let me say that. I wanted to tell her not to cry, but... but... Warm liquid dripped from her crotch every time we kissed. Kimika grabbed my wrist and pushed it into her crotch again. I felt her sticky wetness and soft flesh on my fingers. Kimika: ... She kept kissing me, never letting up. We were connected by our lips, and by my hand at her crotch. Kimika: Ah... N-No, I'm going to, ahh... She looked at me, tears welling up in her eyes. She was moving my fingers herself, but soon after I started touching her, she was already close to climax. Kimika: Oh no... I'm going to cum... Ah, sorry, I'm really sorry... I'm sorry your friend is such a freak. Zakuro: ...You dummy... She finally moved her lips so I could speak. Kimika: ...Zakuro. Zakuro: You're acting like you're the only one who wants to... Look... I gently touched her pussy. Kimika: N-No way... You're touching me... With your finger, you're touching me... Ahh! She could've just told me she wanted to this. You're such a dummy, Kimika. Kimika: Ah, I'm sorry... Zakuro, ah, for making you do this, I'm so sorry... Ah, no, no, I'm really going to cum. I'm going to cum! Kimika: Aaaaah! Aaammhaaaaa!! Kimika convulsed with waves of pleasure... and then a moment later, she froze, as if her batteries had died. Kimika: Haaa, haa... Haa... Kimika: Next time I'll... Zakuro: Don't worry about it, Kimika... Ah, no! Kimika put her hand under my skirt, and then... I was so embarrassed... I suddenly realized that my underwear was wet, and it was dripping down my thighs too... Kimika: Whoa... Are you wetter than me? Zakuro: Don't ask me that! Kimika: Ah... Zakuro, Zakuro... Zakuro, you're... Zakuro: Ah? Wh-What? Kimika: Y-You're so wet... It's bright red... Zakuro... Zakuro: Ahhh! Kimika: Mm... Ah... Zakuro: Haa... Wh-What? Kimika? Wh-What are you doing? N-No, wait... Kimika? You can't do that... I experienced a pleasure I had never felt before. I felt the same warm touch that was previously in my mouth and on my breasts. She pulled down my panties and put her mouth to my pussy. Zakuro: N-No, Kimika! No... You shouldn't, you shouldn't be licking down there! Kimika: Mm... Zakuro, you're such a dirty girl... You're soaked down here... I can't help it, I want to feel your body more, more... Zakuro: But... No, you're a girl, you shouldn't... A girl shouldn't be doing that... Kimika: Haa... Haa... Sorry, I'm really sorry, but you're so wet, I... I can't hold myself back... Sorry. Zakuro: No... D-Don't say that, aaaah... Don't, not there, aah... No, Kimika, not there. Wait, not my clitoris... Kimika: J-Jeez... I'm not stopping now... I want to feel your entire body... Mm, you can't stop me now. Kimika: Aauh... I'm actually licking your most precious place... Ahh, ahh, I'm sorry, I'm such a pervert... I'm just a freak that likes other girls, I'm sorry... Zakuro: Ah, aah... Kimika, you dummy, dummy, dummy, dummy! Kimika: Zakuro... You taste so good, mmm... I'm so happy right now. Zakuro: No, no... Really, Kimika, I'm... Zakuro: Kimika, wait, not there... We can't ever go back if you... Kimika: I don't want to go back... Besides, I just came earlier. You're twitching down here, and you're soaking wet... Zakuro: Ah... Kimika... Why are you acting like this? Kimika: Because I love you... I'm so happy just being able to do this with you... Zakuro: Kimika... You dummy... You pervert... Kimika: I'm sorry... I'm sorry, mm... But I'm still happy that I'm able to do this... Zakuro: B-But... No, don't suck there, ah... Kimika: Zakuro... Mm... Zakuro... Zakuro: Pervert! Pervert! Pervert! Aaaah! Zakuro: Pervert! This isn't fair! You should show me yours too! Kimika: Huh? Zakuro: ...It's not fair that you're doing everything... I want to feel your body too... Kimika: Zakuro... Zakuro: So please! Kimika: B-But... I couldn't make you do that. I'm doing this because I want to... I could never make you do this to me. Zakuro: You pervert! I want to touch yours too! You stupid pervert! Kimika: Ah, ahh... Zakuro... Zakuro: You're amazing, Kimika... You're just using your tongue, but it feels so... Kimika: But, but... I've always been holding it back... I've always wanted to do this, and I couldn't hold myself back... Zakuro: Then why didn't you say something... Mm... Kimika: Ah! Wh-What? A-Are you... Are you really licking me down there? Zakuro: You pervert! Pervert! You're soaking wet... I don't understand you at all! Zakuro: I told you to stop, but you kept going... If I don't do something to return the favor now, then it's just like before. Kimika: Zakuro... Ah... W-Wait, Zakuro... Mm... Ah... Kimika and I went down on each other in the evening classroom. If anyone saw us, we wouldn't just be suspended... we'd probably be expelled... And we're both girls, too... If someone saw, who knows what would happen... Those thoughts flashed through my mind, but I didn't care. My brain wasn't working right anymore... My thoughts wouldn't line up. The waves of pleasure rushing through my body dominated me. Kimika and I held each other. Our skin touched, our bodies overlapped... I couldn't believe how warm and soft her body felt. So people really are mammals... Nonsensical thoughts like that flashed through my mind... Maybe that's why it's so nice to feel another person's warmth. I love feeling her warmth... It's so wonderful... I want to get even closer with her... I want to become one with her... That was my only desire. Kimika: Haa... N-No way, Zakuro, you're actually... I can't believe it... Zakuro: Mm... You're so warm, Kimika... Kimika: Haa... Zakuro, your lips are so soft... Zakuro: Ah, ah... Kimika, Kimika, Kimika... I want your body more... I want it so bad... Kimika: Haa, ha... I want you too... I want to feel your body more... Zakuro: Yeah... I want to feel your warmth... I want to feel everything you have... Kimika: Ah... More, more... Kimika arched her back like a bow. Her thighs were dripping wet, like she had pissed herself. Big drops of it dripped on my face, but it was like I was completely numb. I didn't mind at all. Or maybe... I didn't mind because I loved her... Zakuro: Haa, haa... It feels so good, Kimika... Kimika: Me too... It's amazing... Ahh, Zakuro, I never would've thought you could do this... I, I... Zakuro: Pervert... You pervert, Kimika! Kimika: Aahh... N-No, I'm... I'm going to cum... I'm... Zakuro, what about you? Zakuro: Me too... Soon. Kimika: Ah... How long? Ah, I can't hold it... Mm... Zakuro: You don't need to hold back! Kimika: N-Noo... Ah! I-I'm going to... Your tongue feels so good... Kimika: Ah, no, I can't hold it... Zakuro, ahh! Zakuro: It's okay... M-Me too... Soon, I'm going to... Mm... Kimika: Aah! Wow... Mm, Ahh, aaaah... I-I'm cumming! I'm cumming! Kimika: Haa, I'm cumming! Aaaah... Aaaaaahh!! Zakuro: Ah, ah... Kimika... Ahh... M-Me too... Kimika... Zakuro: Ah!! My body started convulsing just a couple seconds after hers. My body trembled in waves of pleasure. I couldn't even tell what was going on. I guess I came... Every contraction sent dopamine racing through my body. ... For a few minutes... we just held each other, still naked, but our wits returned to us when we heard voices in the hallway. Zakuro: K-Kimika, quick, your clothes! Kimika: Huh? O-Oh! Zakuro: I-If someone sees us, we'll get expelled! Kimika: Ah, y-yeah, I know! Kimika: Ahaha... Zakuro: What's so funny, Kimika? Kimika: Ahaha... I'm sorry... Zakuro: Weren't we just supposed to practice kissing?! Kimika: Y-Yeah... Zakuro: Then how did it end up like this? Kimika: M-My bad... Zakuro: Is that all you have to say?! Kimika: Uh... Sorry... Zakuro: Kimika... I'm not going to forgive you for this. Kimika: U-Um, what? Are you going to press charges for sexual assault? Zakuro: Oh, right... I definitely could do that. Kimika: Wait, you're going to do that?! Zakuro: Is there a problem with that? Kimika: W-Well, I dunno how long I'd last in jail. Zakuro: Right... So then are you going to take responsibility? Kimika: ...Huh? Kimika: Responsibility? Zakuro: That's right. Responsibility. Kimika: You're not going to report me to the police? Zakuro: You need to take responsibility. Now, how are you going to do that? Kimika: R-Responsibility... What exactly do you mean by that? Zakuro: It was because you were suspicious of me and Mamiya-kun... That's why you did this. Kimika: Oh, uh.. * Well, I mean, I know about you two and all, but..."* Zakuro: There's nothing between us. Kimika: Huh? Zakuro: There's nothing between me and Mamiya-kun. I haven't even seen him once all summer. Kimika: R-Really? Zakuro: That's right. There's no reason for us to meet up. Kimika: Huh? But... Zakuro: ...No buts! Now take responsibility! Kimika: Um, yes ma'am! Zakuro: I don't have any feelings for Mamiya-kun... Kimika: D-Does that mean... Zakuro: That's right. And that was the end of that. Or maybe I should say, that was the beginning? One month later... Time passed so quickly, and summer was already over. The seasons changed. From summer to fall. From fall to winter. From winter to spring... Kimika: U-Um... Zakuro: What? Kimika: What were you muttering about just now? Zakuro: Oh, sorry about that. I was just thinking about something. Kimika: Thinking about something? Zakuro: Yeah... And that's how my perspective, the scene that Takashima Zakuro sees, comes to a close. The two of us lived happily ever after... But this is the end. Goodbye. Farewell to days past. And to a new future. The two of us together, from here on out. Hello.
I closed my eyes, just like she told me to. Her fingers dug into my hand. I felt her breath... I'd never felt anything like that before. My teeth started chattering out of nervousness. Kimika: Mm... Zakuro: Ah... Kimika: U-Um... Zakuro? Zakuro: Wh-What? Kimika: I-I can't kiss you when your mouth is so tightly closed. Zakuro: Should I... open my mouth? Kimika: No, you don't need to open it, but if you could let go of the tension in your lips... I think it would work better that way... Zakuro: Oh, sure... Got it. It would work better that way, huh? I slowly parted my lips. Kimika: Mm... Mm... Zakuro: Mm! Mm... Her tongue darted into my mouth. I'd never felt anything like that... I couldn't believe a kiss could feel so good. Her tongue was so warm and soft. Zakuro: Mm, ah... Kimika: H-How was it? Zakuro: Eh? U-Um... It's over already? Zakuro: I'm... not sure yet... Kimika: Really? Zakuro: Yeah. I know it feels good, but I'm not sure if I understand how you're supposed to do it yet. Kimika: O-Oh, I was pretty much just kissing you, huh? Okay then, you kiss me this time. Zakuro: Kiss you? Kimika: Yeah... You kiss me... Zakuro: S-Sure... I slowly moved my face closer to hers. She closed her eyes... Maybe I was supposed to close my eyes at this part too, but I wasn't used to this. It seemed like we're going to hit noses if I wasn't careful. I looked at her face until the last moment. Soft skin, and beautiful lips... I wanted to kiss her more. Our lips came together again with a muted sound. The soft sensation of our lips touching. Our bodies drew closer. As we pressed our lips and bodies together, our warmth seemed to melt into one. Kimika's tongue danced and twined itself around mine... I heard the sound of our saliva mixing and the sound of our tongues caressing each other. Kimika: Mm... Mm... She pushed her tongue deep inside my mouth. Her lips didn't show any sign of drawing away from mine. Quite the opposite... We began to kiss even more violently than before. I wanted to feel her more... I wanted to be closer to her... That's what my instincts told me. At the very least, in that moment, I didn't know what to call my feelings for her. My instincts just urged me to keep going, to keep kissing. Zakuro: Mm... Mm... Kimika: Mm... Mm.. We kissed and kissed, seemingly for an eternity... Kimika: Z-Zakuro... are you... Zakuro: Huh? Zakuro: Ah, i-it's just... Kimika: I-I'm sorry... I'm sorry. I can't stop myself. Zakuro: Eh? Y-You can't stop yourself? Kimika: I-I've... been holding myself back. I told myself I could never do this with you, but now I can't stop. Zakuro: Whoa, w-wait, Kimika! Kimika: Sorry, I know you have Mamiya, but... I know you have him, but... I'm sorry. I'm sorry, but I've always... Zakuro: Um, th-that's not the real problem here... Kimika: I'm sorry... You'll probably hate me for this, but I can't keep holding myself back, Zakuro. Zakuro: Mm?! Mm... Kimika: Mm... Zakuro, I love you. I love you... Mm... Mm... I'm sorry... I always thought she was small and weak, but when she held me down, I couldn't stop her. She was crying... Why would she cry while doing this? There's nothing to cry about... Kimika... what were you holding back? What is it you always wanted? I wanted to ask her that, but her lips never left mine. She didn't even let me ask that question. Kimika, you don't need to cry... I don't understand, but if you were holding back for my sake, I'll do anything for you. Because you're... the best friend I've ever had. We kissed for a long time. I felt her tears running down my face... I just closed my eyes and let her do as she pleased. She put her hand on my blouse. She kept touching my chest. She kept fondling my chest, even though she always seemed so upset about it before. Kimika: Zakuro... I'm sorry... She started undoing the buttons on my blouse... and her other hand moved toward my thighs. She moved her hand up my thighs, almost touching my underwear, then lifted my skirt. She wanted to touch my body... But I wanted to be closer and closer to her. I wanted to touch more of her body as well. Her hand slowly, intently moved from my thigh to the bottom of my underwear. Like she was checking the feeling of my body, over and over... Kimika: Your boobs really are big, aren't they? She buried her face in my chest. Kimika: I don't want to give you away to that bastard Mamiya... Kimika: I might not be as strong as him, but someday, I'll be stronger. Someday I'll be able to protect you, so... so... Zakuro: Ah, ah. She put her lips on one of my nipples. Kimika: Mm... Your chest is so big... and soft... and you smell good... Mm... Zakuro: Ah... N-No, Kimika... D-Don't touch me there... Kimika: No way. I'm not stopping now... I want your everything. Not just your chest, but here too. Zakuro: Ah! Her hand touched my underwear. A strange feeling I'd never felt before resounded throughout my brain. Zakuro: Ah, ah... Kimika: Your thighs, and your underwear... I can't believe how soft they are... and warm, too... I love you, Zakuro. I won't let anyone else have you. Kimika brought her face back to my breasts and started licking them. Zakuro: Ah, ah... No... Her tongue really felt good. It was soft and warm. Zakuro: Ah, ah... I could tell that my nipples were hard. Zakuro: Haa... Ahh... Mm... My body just reacted to the pleasure... I could tell that Kimika felt the same way from the warmth of her body and her hot, ragged breathing. Kimika took my empty hand and placed it on her thigh. I felt her smooth skin on my palm. Her thighs felt wet... and when I moved my hand further up, I felt an incredible heat radiating from her crotch. Then... She pressed my hand into her crotch. She guided my hand... and my finger moved in from the side of her underwear. It was unbelievably wet. My finger slipped in without any resistance at all. Then I touched her clitoris... Kimika: Mmhaa! Her body trembled at my touch. Kimika: Look, I'm already so wet. I can hardly believe it. When I looked down at my hand... I noticed that her crotch was so damp it looked like she had wet herself. Kimika: Sorry I'm such a freak... I'm sorry your friend is such a pain... Sorry... Kimika: Pch... Mm... She didn't give me a chance to reply at all. I actually enjoyed it, but she wouldn't let me say that. I wanted to tell her not to cry, but... but... Warm liquid dripped from her crotch every time we kissed. Kimika grabbed my wrist and pushed it into her crotch again. I felt her sticky wetness and soft flesh on my fingers. Kimika: ... She kept kissing me, never letting up. We were connected by our lips, and by my hand at her crotch. Kimika: Ah... N-No, I'm going to, ahh... She looked at me, tears welling up in her eyes. She was moving my fingers herself, but soon after I started touching her, she was already close to climax. Kimika: Oh no... I'm going to cum... Ah, sorry, I'm really sorry... I'm sorry your friend is such a freak. Zakuro: ...You dummy... She finally moved her lips so I could speak. Kimika: ...Zakuro. Zakuro: You're acting like you're the only one who wants to... Look... I gently touched her pussy. Kimika: N-No way... You're touching me... With your finger, you're touching me... Ahh! She could've just told me she wanted to this. You're such a dummy, Kimika. Kimika: Ah, I'm sorry... Zakuro, ah, for making you do this, I'm so sorry... Ah, no, no, I'm really going to cum. I'm going to cum! Kimika: Aaaaah! Aaammhaaaaa!! Kimika convulsed with waves of pleasure... and then a moment later, she froze, as if her batteries had died. Kimika: Haaa, haa... Haa... Kimika: Next time I'll... Zakuro: Don't worry about it, Kimika... Ah, no! Kimika put her hand under my skirt, and then... I was so embarrassed... I suddenly realized that my underwear was wet, and it was dripping down my thighs too... Kimika: Whoa... Are you wetter than me? Zakuro: Don't ask me that! Kimika: Ah... Zakuro, Zakuro... Zakuro, you're... Zakuro: Ah? Wh-What? Kimika: Y-You're so wet... It's bright red... Zakuro... Zakuro: Ahhh! Kimika: Mm... Ah... Zakuro: Haa... Wh-What? Kimika? Wh-What are you doing? N-No, wait... Kimika? You can't do that... I experienced a pleasure I had never felt before. I felt the same warm touch that was previously in my mouth and on my breasts. She pulled down my panties and put her mouth to my pussy. Zakuro: N-No, Kimika! No... You shouldn't, you shouldn't be licking down there! Kimika: Mm... Zakuro, you're such a dirty girl... You're soaked down here... I can't help it, I want to feel your body more, more... Zakuro: But... No, you're a girl, you shouldn't... A girl shouldn't be doing that... Kimika: Haa... Haa... Sorry, I'm really sorry, but you're so wet, I... I can't hold myself back... Sorry. Zakuro: No... D-Don't say that, aaaah... Don't, not there, aah... No, Kimika, not there. Wait, not my clitoris... Kimika: J-Jeez... I'm not stopping now... I want to feel your entire body... Mm, you can't stop me now. Kimika: Aauh... I'm actually licking your most precious place... Ahh, ahh, I'm sorry, I'm such a pervert... I'm just a freak that likes other girls, I'm sorry... Zakuro: Ah, aah... Kimika, you dummy, dummy, dummy, dummy! Kimika: Zakuro... You taste so good, mmm... I'm so happy right now. Zakuro: No, no... Really, Kimika, I'm... Zakuro: Kimika, wait, not there... We can't ever go back if you... Kimika: I don't want to go back... Besides, I just came earlier. You're twitching down here, and you're soaking wet... Zakuro: Ah... Kimika... Why are you acting like this? Kimika: Because I love you... I'm so happy just being able to do this with you... Zakuro: Kimika... You dummy... You pervert... Kimika: I'm sorry... I'm sorry, mm... But I'm still happy that I'm able to do this... Zakuro: B-But... No, don't suck there, ah... Kimika: Zakuro... Mm... Zakuro... Zakuro: Pervert! Pervert! Pervert! Aaaah! Zakuro: Pervert! This isn't fair! You should show me yours too! Kimika: Huh? Zakuro: ...It's not fair that you're doing everything... I want to feel your body too... Kimika: Zakuro... Zakuro: So please! Kimika: B-But... I couldn't make you do that. I'm doing this because I want to... I could never make you do this to me. Zakuro: You pervert! I want to touch yours too! You stupid pervert! Kimika: Ah, ahh... Zakuro... Zakuro: You're amazing, Kimika... You're just using your tongue, but it feels so... Kimika: But, but... I've always been holding it back... I've always wanted to do this, and I couldn't hold myself back... Zakuro: Then why didn't you say something... Mm... Kimika: Ah! Wh-What? A-Are you... Are you really licking me down there? Zakuro: You pervert! Pervert! You're soaking wet... I don't understand you at all! Zakuro: I told you to stop, but you kept going... If I don't do something to return the favor now, then it's just like before. Kimika: Zakuro... Ah... W-Wait, Zakuro... Mm... Ah... Kimika and I went down on each other in the evening classroom. If anyone saw us, we wouldn't just be suspended... we'd probably be expelled... And we're both girls, too... If someone saw, who knows what would happen... Those thoughts flashed through my mind, but I didn't care. My brain wasn't working right anymore... My thoughts wouldn't line up. The waves of pleasure rushing through my body dominated me. Kimika and I held each other. Our skin touched, our bodies overlapped... I couldn't believe how warm and soft her body felt. So people really are mammals... Nonsensical thoughts like that flashed through my mind... Maybe that's why it's so nice to feel another person's warmth. I love feeling her warmth... It's so wonderful... I want to get even closer with her... I want to become one with her... That was my only desire. Kimika: Haa... N-No way, Zakuro, you're actually... I can't believe it... Zakuro: Mm... You're so warm, Kimika... Kimika: Haa... Zakuro, your lips are so soft... Zakuro: Ah, ah... Kimika, Kimika, Kimika... I want your body more... I want it so bad... Kimika: Haa, ha... I want you too... I want to feel your body more... Zakuro: Yeah... I want to feel your warmth... I want to feel everything you have... Kimika: Ah... More, more... Kimika arched her back like a bow. Her thighs were dripping wet, like she had pissed herself. Big drops of it dripped on my face, but it was like I was completely numb. I didn't mind at all. Or maybe... I didn't mind because I loved her... Zakuro: Haa, haa... It feels so good, Kimika... Kimika: Me too... It's amazing... Ahh, Zakuro, I never would've thought you could do this... I, I... Zakuro: Pervert... You pervert, Kimika! Kimika: Aahh... N-No, I'm... I'm going to cum... I'm... Zakuro, what about you? Zakuro: Me too... Soon. Kimika: Ah... How long? Ah, I can't hold it... Mm... Zakuro: You don't need to hold back! Kimika: N-Noo... Ah! I-I'm going to... Your tongue feels so good... Kimika: Ah, no, I can't hold it... Zakuro, ahh! Zakuro: It's okay... M-Me too... Soon, I'm going to... Mm... Kimika: Aah! Wow... Mm, Ahh, aaaah... I-I'm cumming! I'm cumming! Kimika: Haa, I'm cumming! Aaaah... Aaaaaahh!! Zakuro: Ah, ah... Kimika... Ahh... M-Me too... Kimika... Zakuro: Ah!! My body started convulsing just a couple seconds after hers. My body trembled in waves of pleasure. I couldn't even tell what was going on. I guess I came... Every contraction sent dopamine racing through my body. ...
Twas brillig, and the slithy toves did gyre and gimble in the wabe; ** All mimsy were the borogoves, And the mome raths outgrabe. "Beware the Jabberwock, my son! ** The jaws that bite, the claws that catch! ** Beware the Jubjub bird, and shun ** The frumious Bandersnatch!" He took his vorpal sword in hand: Long time the manxome foe he sought So rested he by the Tumtum tree, And stood awhile in thought. And as in uffish thought he stood, The Jabberwock, with eyes of flame, Came whiffling through the tulgey wood, And burbled as it came! One, two! One, two! And through and through, the vorpal blade went snicker-snack! ** He left it dead, and with its head ** He went galumphing back "And hast thou slain the Jabberwock? ** Come to my arms, my beamish boy! ** O frabjous day! Callooh! Callay!" ** He chortled in his joy. All mimsy were the borogoves, ** And the mome raths outgrabe. ** Twas brillig, and the slithy toves ** Did gyre and gimble in the wabe; All mimsy were the borogoves, ** And the mome raths outgrabe. "Jabberwocky" * by Lewis Carroll* The mysterious monster called the Jabberwock... It is a nameless man who defeats that monster. Why did that nameless man feel compelled to slay the Jabberwock? It was a poem written by Lewis Carroll in nonsense verse. The greatest nonsense poem is told as a parody of an epic. A mysterious monster. A nameless hero. Many words that never existed before. A parody of an epic. It's just like my own existence... I walked through the city as the sun began to set. A city bathed in evening sunlight. The sky took on shades of orange and yellow, and buildings were dyed a dark purple. The time when the world sinks into darkness... When the lights come on. The lights in people's lives come on. Master: Oh, you're early today... Um, you seem like Tomosane, right? Tomosane: Yes, I'm Tomosane. Also, it doesn't really matter, but I'm not early at all. It's already after 6:30. Master: Oh, you really are Tomo-chan. Tomosane: Would you stop that? Call me Tomosane, or Yuuki... Master: It's getting close to seven. The days really have gotten long. It's still light outside. Haa... Ignoring me, huh? I even came to see him... Tomosane: It's the second of July, after all. The days will just keep getting shorter from now on. Master: Really? Tomosane: Days are longest at the end of June. Once you get into July, the days start getting shorter. The summer solstice is in June, you know... Master: You're right. Still, don't the days feel longer in July and August? Tomosane: But the days are almost an entire hour shorter in August compared to the summer solstice... Master: Seriously? It's that much of a difference? Why's that? It feels like the days have to be shorter in June. Tomosane: Well, I don't know the details, but I think it feels like it gets darker earlier in June because the clouds are thicker. Master: The clouds? Oh, so the weather makes it feel like the days are shorter. Tomosane: Probably. During June, this city has clouds covering the sky even in the best of weather, so it never really gets all that bright. The June sky is always dark. A person would know that well if they had nothing to do besides look at the sky all day. You could even start to think there's no such thing as a blue sky in June. Actually, there's a saying about May skies being the finest of all, and that was in the old calendar. It would actually be June in the modern calendar. And the cliched May showers are the same. The phrase "May sky" isn't just referring to good weather. The phrase actually refers to the rarity of a blue sky in the rainy season of June. That's how precious a clear sky in June is. Now that I think of it, I knew a dumb girl who liked the June sky... The same place as always. That idiot is always here. She said it was because this place is closest to the sky. It's kind of ridiculous to say the roof of an apartment store is the closest place to the sky... After all, even the apartment building on the other side of the street is bigger. Tomosane: It's raining, you know... Why are you up here on the roof? "Huh? The rain's nice. I like it." Tomosane: That's not an excuse. You're gonna catch a cold up here. "Do you hate the rain?" Tomosane: Yeah, I'm in shock right now, since I just heard someone say they actually liked it. I can't believe anyone would actually want to look at such a dreary sky. "A dreary sky, huh? I guess you could call it that." Tomosane: The June sky is always dreary. "Oh, really... I actually like the May sky, though." Tomosane: May, huh... I guess it's sorta poetic if you use the old calendar, but that doesn't change the fact that it's dreary. "But, you know... the June sky hides that which hangs overhead." Tomosane: Hangs overhead? What are you talking about? These dreary clouds are all that's hanging overhead. "It's a matter of perspective. To me, it's the ridiculously huge blue sky extending into infinity that seems dreary." Tomosane: A ridiculously huge sky, huh... You're like a poet, but with childish delusions. "You sound stupid when you throw around the phrase 'childish delusions' all the time like that, Tomosane." Tomosane: Wha― Tomosane: Y-You're the one who's always saying it to me! "Hahahaha, that's not important. Try picturing this. Just imagine how much easier life would be if we could hide away that endless sky lurking above our heads." Tomosane: ...I don't see it. The cloudy sky is a lot drearier. Tomosane: Why don't you try picturing this instead? Hasaki could have just washed some clothes and can't put them out to dry. "June! Dirty clothes smell like Summer Comiket!" Tomosane: Huh? "Sometimes the air conditioner smells like it too... I wonder if they're holding an itty bitty comiket in my air conditioner." Tomosane: What's that comiket thing you're talking about? "You haven't heard of it? It's when all the funny looking people with funny hobbies and funny glasses get together to talk to each other in their nasally voices and laugh it up, kinda like Sabbat." Tomosane: I don't know about any of that, and what's Sabbat? Well, it must be some kind of manga festival, right? "Yeah. Apparently he goes to those kind of events a lot. It's a real pain when he suddenly passes the baton to me out there." Tomosane: Hmm... That's never happened to me. "You're lucky for that. It's hell. It's cold in the winter, hot in the summer, and it always stinks." Tomosane: Oh, that must've sucked. "You could at least try to sound interested. Who knows, it could end up happening to you next time." Tomosane: I don't know what I would do to all those people if that happened. I'm sure it would never happen to me... I made sure of that. "Oh wow... So you don't think it's a problem when it happens to me?" Tomosane: Who knows... Not my problem anyway. This conversation really got off track... Well, that's what always happens when I talk to her. I unlocked the piano and put my hands on the keys. The sound of the keys... Did it get tuned? It was done really well. Tomosane: ... Master: How's the piano? It got tuned this afternoon. Tomosane: Dunno. Master: You should... You're the one who said it sounded nasty because it was out of tune. Tomosane: Then it's fine... It doesn't sound nasty right now. Master: What's that... Tomosane: It was probably Yuki who said that, not me. Master: Oh, really? Tomosane: I don't remember that. Plus, Yuki's normally the one who worries about small stuff like the piano's tuning. Master: Oh... I kind of had a feeling that's what it was. She's always been picky about that kind of stuff. Tomosane: She won't shut up about the piano... Also, Master, did Hasaki come by? Master: Hmm? She said she would come again tonight, after she went to her mother's place. Tomosane: Her mother? Again? That idiot... Tomosane: Well, whatever... So she's going to come back tonight. I'll make sure to leave before she comes. Master: No you won't. This is your job. Do it right. Hasaki: Hello. Tomosane: ... Master: Oh? Welcome back. Tomosane: ... Master: What? I didn't lie. It's already night out, you know? The time was 6:58... The sun hadn't even set. Could you really call this night? Though complaining to Master wouldn't really help much at this point. More importantly, Hasaki was in front of me. Hasaki: You were about to leave... Tomosane: ...Yeah, I was. Hasaki: Why would you do that? Tomosane: Because I knew you were coming. Hasaki: Hmph! It was pretty easy to understand her personality... She disappeared into the kitchen with a sullen look. Mamiya Hasaki... Mamiya Takuji's little sister... And of course, since I share the same body with Mamiya Takuji, she's my little sister too. Physically, at least. But only physically... I've never even shared the Mamiya name, so she's nothing more than a stranger to me. So I, Yuuki Tomosane, don't like to get involved with her more than I have to. Master: Don't make Hasaki-chan too mad. Tomosane: How so? Master: Don't you feel bad for her? Tomosane: I should feel bad for her? Master: That's right. Tomosane: Then you could be nice to her so I don't have to. Master: You're still spouting that crap? Master: You know, if you make her too mad... Hasaki: Ah... Master: Look... She can't focus when she's like that. She can't even do her job when she's like that... Hasaki: U-Um, Master, I'm sorry... I broke a plate. Master: I heard it. Make sure you don't cut yourself. Tomosane: ...I'll leave Hasaki to you. I'm leaving. Master: Huh? You have a job to do. Tomosane: I'm going home. Master: You're really leaving now? Tomosane: Sorry... I got a headache all of a sudden. I probably have the flu. Tomosane: I don't want to give it to you guys, and this store does sell food after all. Master: Hehehehe... Tomosane: Ngh! He got behind me in an instant. Faster than I could believe... Master: Oh, you don't have a fever at all? Tomosane: I-I'm sure I'll wake up with a really awful fever tomorrow morning... Master: Then you should be okay till tomorrow morning, don't you think? Tomosane: N-No, uh... Master: Besides... You have to work to pay me for that plate. Tomosane: B-But Hasaki broke that! Master: She broke it because you upset her. Tomosane: U-Um, if you squeeze any harder, I― Master: Oh, do you think you'd be more compliant if I made you faint? Tomosane: Wait, a-ah, Master, ngh! This fag's skills are beyond those of any normal martial artist... He was an instructor at the jujitsu dojo that Mamiya's grandfather used to run. He's a fag, so he's not really the kind of person I like to hang around with, but there's no denying his strength. Tomosane: Haa... Haa, haa... Master: Don't underestimate me. If I tell you to work, then you have to work. He really is good. He's completely different from all the other people around here. He had me the second he got hold of my arms... Tomosane: Heh... Master: What are you laughing about? Go get changed. Hasaki: Nii-san. Tomosane: I'm not your Nii-san... I'm Yuuki right now. Yuuki Tomosane. Hasaki: So Tomosane Nii-san... Tomosane: You know... My last name is different than yours, so you shouldn't be calling me that. Master: What are you talking about? You can call someone Onii-chan even if you're not related to them. Master: And besides, the two of you are related by blood, Tomo-chan. Tomosane: That's not it... And please don't call me Tomo-chan. Master: Shut up. Why are you worried about junk like that? Tomosane: It's not junk... That's really unpleasant. Master: Is that why you've got nothing but junk down here? Tomosane: Wha-?! Master: Look, just a tiny piece of junk. Tomosane: S-Stop... Y-You're going to break it... Stop! Master: Ahahaha, it's you're fault you're so vulnerable. You should learn the value of an hour of training every day of your life. Tomosane: I'm not a martial artist. Master: Oh, really? I guess you're just a punk who thinks it's all right to beat up amateurs. Tomosane: Th-That's not... Master: You act tough, but you're still a child, especially down here. Right, Hasaki-chan? Hasaki just... * shook her head, like she was saying...* * 'Don't ask me, don't ask me.'* She had no idea what to say when Master suddenly asked her a question like that. I played one of my favorite songs. ...Le poisson reveur. A composition by the French composer Erik Satie. Though I just copied it by ear, so it's a little different from the original. The antithesis of tonal music... It ignores traditional harmonic progression. The score includes copious examples of unusual counterpoint and chord progression. This strange music is called furniture music. In actually playing Satie's music on the piano... there are parts where I can understand what he intended the music to sound like, and other parts where I can't understand at all. Music is a mysterious phenomenon. The music my hands are playing was originally a melody in someone's head a long time ago in a distant land. Whether the composer would admit it or not, that melody was made up through an amalgamation of his thoughts, his emotions, and his life. And now I'm reproducing one tiny part of that... No doubt, an incomplete fragment. Was the original melody in his head the same as the melody in my ears now? How well does the sound of my own playing overlap with the melody Satie first conceived? A colorful sound. The melody paints a scene. Could this melody blend into the background music of his life? These aimless thoughts ran through my head as my fingers struck the keys. Tomosane: ... That's a bad habit... When I get lost in my own head, I can't see the customers. I'm playing for the customers... I'm being paid to do this. I have to focus on the music. But still... Customer A: Kyaa, Tomosane-kun, you're so cool. Customer B: Wow! You're so sexy! The old men flirted with me in shrill voices... They weren't listening to the music at all. They were just making noise. No... That's what Satie intended this music to be anyway, I suppose. There's a composition by Satie that's actually titled Furniture Music, after Satie's style of composition. Apparently the program for the concert where it was first played told people that they needn't listen to the music playing during the interlude. But of course, when the audience heard the player begin to perform during the interlude, they sat quietly and listened. Satie told them, 'Please continue talking!' So maybe... this is exactly how Satie wanted his music to be performed? Customer B: Tomo-kun, you're so cute! Customer A: Especially between your legs! Customer B: I wonder if he really is cute down there. Customer A: Of course he is! Customer A: Let me suck on your cute little guy! Tomosane: Huh?! There's no way Satie wanted this. Customer A: Ahh! That hurt. Customer B: Kyaa! Hit me too! Hit me too, Tomo-kun! Tomosane: D-Don't crowd me, you fags! How am I supposed to play?! Master: Come on, don't touch the dancer, don't touch the dancer. And you, don't hit the customers. Tomosane: I'm not a dancer! Tomosane: Haa... Master: Good work. Your next performance is in two hours... Be ready at ten. Tomosane: I don't mind playing the piano, but can you get rid of those fags for me? They're really creepy. Master: Oh now, you can't say that about our best customers. Tomosane: I don't care if they're customers, they're nasty. All those fags are nasty. Master: It almost sounds like you're talking about me too when you say that. I'm one of those fags that doesn't care if the person I do it with isn't gay, you know. Tomosane: ...Wh-What do you mean by that? Master: Maybe I should help you out with that cute little guy between your legs... Tomosane: ... Master: Oh, you've got goosebumps all over. You're so innocent. Tomosane: It has nothing to do with innocence... It's creepy as hell when a monster like you says that. Master: Oh, really? You're at such a difficult age. Just talking about your little Johnny gets you all embarrassed. Tomosane: No... My age has nothing to do with it. Master: Then what is it? Tomosane: Because you're a nasty old man. Master: I'm not an old man! That's mean, Tomo-chan! Tomosane: ...Like I care. Tomosane: Look... You're gonna make her break another plate. Master: Oh? I'm sorry... You're a bit young to be hearing about all that, Hasaki-chan. You know, all that talk about two men licking each other's cute little guys. Hasaki: C-Cute little guys?! Master: Yeah, right here. Let me show you. Tomosane: Knock it off! Hasaki: Th-That's all right! I-I'm not upset at all! Please, continue with your conversation! Tomosane: Oh, and... there's no such thing as too young to be hearing about fags blowing each other. That's wrong, no matter how old you are. Master: Oh, really? But it's not all that uncommon at all... you know? Tomosane: S-Stop! Whoa, stop, get your hands off my fly! Master: Hehehe... You know I love popping little straight boys' cherries. Hasaki: N-No, no, no! Hasaki: You can't do that, you can't do that! Not to Tomo Nii-san! Hasaki was almost in tears as she stepped in to stop him. Which is fine, but... Hasaki: No! Go find someone else to do that with! Master: Huh? I've done that so much I'm about tired of it. Hasaki: Not my problem. Who cares? Go suck your own for all I care! Master: But my body isn't soft like his is. Hasaki: Who cares?! Anyway, Tomo Nii-san is off limits! You can't lick him or suck him or anything! Hasaki was on the verge of tears and rambling about terrible things... Is she all right? Master: But, you know, he has to find someone to give him a good blowjob eventually. Hasaki: Y-You don't need to worry about that! I'm sure we can solve that problem here in the family! No, Hasaki... I'm pretty sure you're not supposed to solve that problem in the family. Tomosane: More importantly, Master... It's not like I actually have to find someone to do that. Hasaki: Ah, ah, auuhh... Hasaki finally realized what she had been rambling about the entire time. Her face went bright red, and then turned terribly pale. Master: Hasaki-chan, you're like a stop light... Tomosane: That's your fault, you know... This is the crap I put up with every day. I'm utterly stunned at how stupid it is. It's not all that bad, though. I shouldn't be experiencing these days, but... they're not all bad. But I mustn't forget. My life here could crumble and disappear at any moment. My whole lifestyle is precarious... It's built upon a foundation that could collapse without warning. I might appear normal to an outsider, but my life is completely different from that of other people. Someday... No, soon... I'll disappear. That's just how it is. So I have to be prepared for the moment when I'm cut out of the picture, when I won't be able to experience these days ever again. Because I can't stay here long... I have to be ready for my own disappearance, no matter when it comes. "You mustn't covet your possessions, for you may never know what could happen in the future." Those were the words of a genius who conducted the Leningrad Philharmonic behind the Iron Curtain. Despite his fame, he lived a very simple life, filled with nothing more than nature, music, and art. You musn't covet your possessions... That applies not just to physical possessions, but also those of the heart. I mustn't have too much in this world.
I was on the roof. The roof of Building B. This is a great place to be alone, since you can only get here by crossing over from the Building A roof. Though I feel like all the other lowlifes avoid coming here since it's where I usually hang out. Either way, I don't have to deal with anyone else if I come here. Of course, I don't like to see Mamiya Takuji's face, but I'm not really fond of chatting with anyone else either. So I prefer deserted places. Though the roof is kind of hot... Like always... the sky was clear and blue. A clear summer day in summer is the same as a sweltering hot one. Especially up here on the roof, where the sun heats the concrete to the point where it could burn you. Over on the Building A roof, where there's no shade, you could get a farmer's tan (where only the uncovered parts of your skin get sunburnt) in just minutes. That's why this is such a nice spot. The Building B roof is lower and provides more shade than the others. A nice breeze blows in from the nearby copse, too. It's not as cool as indoors, where it's air-conditioned, but for being outside in the sun, the heat and humidity here are about ideal. But it's still a really hot day... Tomosane: ... It's like a sound... or maybe, like a slight pain... A unique, characteristic texture. It's not an external stimulus... It's the signal of a change within me. Tomosane: This feeling... I don't think this is Mamiya Takuji... Each of us feels different from the others. It's a subtle difference, but there's definitely a difference depending on who's about to appear. "Heeere." Tomosane: Long time no see... Can I say that here? "Why not?" Tomosane: Yuki... Yuki: It's been a while, hasn't it? I'm not entirely sure, though... What's today? What day in what month of what year? Tomosane: There's a phone in your pocket... Why don't you look yourself? Yuki: Oh, right. I forgot... Whoa * No way, it's already summer. That's why it's so hot, huh?"* Tomosane: Yeah, it's hot out today. Yuki: Oh yeah, give me a cigarette. Tomosane: Yeah right... Yuki: Don't be cheap... I'm your big sister, you know? Tomosane: I'm smoking one right now. That means there's one in your mouth too... Yuki: Hmm? Yuki: Oh, you're right... Is this Never Knows Best?! Tomosane: You just realized that? It should be obvious... Yuki: It wasn't obvious to me. Well, you're right. You picked out my favorite brand, just for me. Yuki: You're such a nice kid, picking out an obscure brand like this just for your big sister. Tomosane: I didn't buy them for you... And what do you mean, big sister? Yuki: You're awfully slow to notice that one... But isn't it basically true? I was born before you, after all. Tomosane: Is being born first really enough to make you my big sister? In that case, the old lady at the corner store and that old woman who directs traffic are both big sisters to me too... Yuki: And we're related by blood too. Tomosane: Yeah, I suppose we are... And we also happen to be related by our blood vessels, muscles, brains, and the fat on our asses. Yuki: Oh, perfect. I'm more than just a big sister, then... Do you think that makes us lovers? Tomosane: I don't even want to hear a joke like that... Besides, I'm not a narcissist. Yuki: So do you hate yourself? Tomosane: No... I don't love or hate myself... Yuki: Oh, really... I happen to be rather fond of myself. I think I'm a pretty awesome person. Tomosane: Well, of course you are... You're the person Mamiya Takuji most wanted to become. There'd be no point if you hated yourself. Yuki: Hmmm... I wonder about that... Tomosane: So what do you want? Yuki: Nothing... I just woke up, and I was here. Yuki: If anything, I should ask you why we're out here in the heat... under the clear blue sky. Tomosane: Sorry about that... Unlike you, I prefer my skies to be clear. Yuki: What's that supposed to mean? It's not like I don't like clear skies. Tomosane: What are you talking about... I'm sure I heard you say you liked cloudy skies because it covers up the awful blue sky spreading out into the infinite... Yuki: Yeah, I like the rain. Rainclouds are really great. Yuki: But when it rains, the water puts out my cigarettes... That's kind of a bummer. Tomosane: If you're smoking it, it won't go out... Yuki: Really? It always goes out before I even notice... Yuki: So maybe clear blue skies are all right too. Tomosane: Don't ask me... You're the one who said you didn't like them. Yuki: But isn't it really hot out here in the sun? We gonna die out here or something? Tomosane: Hell no. It's not even that hot here. We're in the shade... Yuki: Oh, you're right... The shade is nice and cool. The breeze feels good too. Yuki sat down next to me. Tomosane: ...Don't sit there. It's too hot, even if you don't really exist. Yuki: I'm afraid your big sister can't respect that opinion. It's no different than claiming it's a violation of human rights when a 2D girl in an eroge gets raped. Tomosane: It's totally different... And you're not my sister. Yuki: Oh, come now... That's cold. It's kind of odd. The Yuki next to me doesn't actually exist. Though, from her perspective, I guess I'm the one that doesn't actually exist. But regardless, when she sat next to me, I clearly felt the warmth and texture of her skin. In other words... Tomosane: Don't sit next to me! I don't care if you're not really there! It's too damn hot! Yuki: I am actually here! You're awfully rude, you know? To me, you're the one that's not actually there! Tomosane: Anyway, get away from me... You're annoying. Yuki: Don't order me around. You're annoying. Tomosane: What?! Yuki: Haa... You try to act like you're so cool, but then you go and act like that. Maybe you should work on staying in character a bit more... Tomosane: The hell are you talking about? Yuki: Oh, you're wearing your glasses. Does that mean... Oh, you're reading something. What's this? Tomosane: A book. Yuki: That's not what I meant. What's the title... Huh, what's this? Wow, The Squirrel Cage? This looks like some scifi book! It's kinda creepy too... Tomosane: Shut up... Don't touch it, stupid. Yuki: I'm not hurting it. Don't be such a brat. Tomosane: I'm not a brat! Who the hell do you think you are?! Yuki: What, you don't remember? I'm Minakami Yuki. It's just your name backward. Tomosane: Is not... Yuki: Sure it does. You can read the kanji in Tomosane like Minakami, and Yuuki sounds just like Yuki... Look! It's basically the same name. Tomosane: It sounds like you're just making up readings. Yuki: Yeah, I guess so... It is awfully arbitrary. Tomosane: No kidding... That's really arbitrary. Yuki: ... Yuki: Also, I think it's happened... a few more times. Tomosane: What are you blabbering about all of a sudden? Yuki: My memory has gotten a lot more fragmented... and I haven't seen Hasaki-chan much at all lately. Tomosane: Oh right, you mentioned that before... That Hasaki's rabbit doll looked like a human to you... Yuki: I'm sure he really doesn't want to see that doll. Tomosane: Doesn't want to see it, huh? Giving her that doll was one of the few times he was actually nice to her... Yuki: He was nice to her at least once, huh? Tomosane: Well yeah... Yuki: That might be it... Maybe Mamiya Takuji doesn't want to see it because it reminds him that he's supposed to be nice to his little sister... Tomosane: A boy's love for his little sister... Yuki: ... Tomosane: ... Yuki: And I heard Hasaki-chan's doll was actually named Kagami. Now that's a crazy name if I ever heard one. Tomosane: You think? Yuki: And Hasaki-chan's name is Tsukasa. Tsukasa and Kagami are the names of the twins from the anime that jerk likes to watch, you know? Tomosane: Oh really? I wouldn't know... More importantly, Hasaki and the doll really look like twins? Yuki: Hahahahaha, yeah, they do. Hasaki-chan and the rabbit doll look like twins. I can't believe the kind of delusions that guy has. Yuki: Oh, and they look just like two sisters from some game he was playing. Tomosane: I see. Pretty much what I would expect from him. Even his fantasies are self-loathing. Tomosane: Self-loathing fantasies, huh... The first thing that pops into his mind is self-loathing. Yuki: I guess so... And the two of us are products of that same self-loathing imagination too... Tomosane: At least he's consistent. Yuki: I wonder about that... I'm not really sure, to be honest. Yuki: ... Yuki: ...We might not see each other again. Tomosane: That came out of the blue... Yuki: Yeah... Tomosane: ... Tomosane: Well... keep up the good fight... Yuki: No, we might be able to see each other for a bit longer! Tomosane: Which one is it? Yuki: Which one do you think? Tomosane: Uh, that's what I just asked you. Yuki: Could you at least sound a little disappointed? What if you never see your big sis ever again?! Come on! Aren't you sad?! Tomosane: Not at all. Yuki: Yes, you are! You're completely heartbroken! Yuki: ... Yuki: ...At least, I'm sad about it... Tomosane: About what? Yuki: That I won't see you again... Tomosane: Huh? Yuki: Don't make that face. You should be happy that a girl is saying this to you. Tomosane: You call yourself a girl, anyway. Yuki: What? Do you wanna test that hypothesis? Tomosane: Wha― St-Stop! Yuki: Here, here, feel my chest. Tomosane: K-Knock it off! Are you some bitch in heat?! Yuki: Oh, come on. It's your own body. Go on, touch it. Tomosane: No, thank you. Tomosane: Why do you have to feel so real?! It's nasty! I can even feel your body heat! Yuki: Usually they call this phenomenon a phantom limb... The human brain really is full of mysteries. Tomosane: It's not a mystery, it's just a malfunction. That much should be obvious. Yuki: A malfunction that lets you feel up a woman whenever you want. Isn't that perfect? Here, feel my boobs. Tomosane: I told you to knock it off, dumbass! Yuki: Oh? What... would you prefer to get under my skirt? Tomosane: D-Don't lift your skirt, you retard! Yuki: What's the matter? I thought I was just an illusion. What are you getting so worked up about? Hehehehehe... Tomosane: It's not funny... Have you no shame? Yuki: Shame? Of course I do. Tomosane: Then don't lift your skirt up in public! Yuki: Who cares? Not like anyone but you can see. Tomosane: But I can see you just fine! Yuki: Who cares about that? Tomosane: I'm telling you, I care! Jeez... Knock it off already. You're annoying. Yuki: You don't seem to like me much, Tomosane. Tomosane: You're the personality Mamiya Takuji desired... I don't care for people like you at all. Yuki: Ahahaha... That hurts. Tomosane: Dumbass... Tomosane: ... Tomosane: So why do you think we won't ever see each other again? Yuki: Oh, that. Yeah, the times when I forget about you, and about Hasaki-chan... Those times are getting longer. Tomosane: That's happened a lot in the past, hasn't it? Yuki: It's about the frequency. It's completely different from before. Tomosane: So you're saying it's way worse than the other times it happened... Yuki: Yeah, way worse... And at the same time, I can't remember people's names or faces very well. Tomosane: Well, if a doll looks like a person to you, I can understand why you'd have trouble remembering faces. Yuki: I wonder if I'll get cut off altogether... Tomosane: Cut off, huh? Tomosane: Then I guess my job is about over too... I need to finish up soon. Yuki: ... Yuki: Hey, Tomosane. Tomosane: What? Yuki: Um, Tomosane... Yuki, always one to tease and play around... For some reason she looked awfully serious. She's never said anything good when she looks like this. Yuki: It would be better if you didn't spend so much time thinking about why you exist... Yuki: It's not like your only purpose in life was to erase Mamiya Takuji. Tomosane: It's not like I came up with that myself... It's just the truth. Yuki: There's no way that's the truth. Tomosane: It is... That's the reason why I was made. Yuki: Mamiya Takuji isn't God... Just because that's what he wanted you to be doesn't mean your life's purpose is set in stone. Tomosane: Then what about you? Tomosane: You're the personality Mamiya Takuji desired. He wanted to be erased and killed by me, leaving you as the sole remaining personality. Yuki: I told you, that's not set in stone. Tomosane: Isn't it? Tomosane: Then do you think all three of us should continue living within one person? Tomosane: Do you think something so unnatural is even possible? Yuki: W-Well... Tomosane: It's just natural that you should become Mamiya Takuji... The two of us are nothing but noise... Yuki: That's just messed up! I'm a girl, you know! And Hasaki-chan looks like two people to me! That's not natural at all! Tomosane: About that... Have you ever heard about glasses that flip your vision vertically and horizontally? Yuki: What are you talking about? I'm trying to be serious here. Don't change the subject. Tomosane: I'm not changing the subject... I'm just responding to your doubts. Yuki: How is that a response? Tomosane: When you first put on those glasses... you feel downright nauseous... Yuki: Well of course you do... What about it? Tomosane: But interestingly enough... you can get used to it in just a day's time... Yuki: Get used to it? Tomosane: Yeah, that's right. If you think about it, it makes sense. When you try to grab hold of something, you can't even move your hand properly because the directions are inverted. Tomosane: But once you get used to it, that inverted world becomes the normal one Yuki: What does that have to do with our situation? Tomosane: Even if you're looking at a completely different world from everyone else, so long as your actions aren't noticeably different, no one can tell there's any discrepancy. Tomosane: Even if you think you're acting like a woman... anyone else who looks at you thinks you're acting just as any other man would. Yuki: Really? Tomosane: Yeah... Do you know what you sound like when you talk? Yuki: Huh? I don't notice anything weird... Tomosane: Did you know that you sound like a guy to other people? Yuki: S-Seriously? That's kind of gross. Tomosane: No, like I said... Mamiya Takuji and I are the only ones who see you as anything but a normal male. Yuki: What? That's scary. Tomosane: Dumbass... You know damn well our perceptions are different... Tomosane: Everyone calls us Mamiya Takuji, but based on which personality it is at that moment, our brain automatically changes it to Yuuki Tomosane or Minakami Yuki. Tomosane: Plenty of other words are conveniently changed depending on which one of us it is... Tomosane: It doesn't matter how we perceive the world. Our brain automatically takes care of that, thereby eliminating any discrepancies in our behavior. Yuki: Ugh, I always act perfectly feminine too... That's terrible. Tomosane: Apparently there are some words that our brain simply can't reconcile with reality, or in some cases words we never want to hear. Those words aren't even recognized as sound... Yuki: Apparently, you say... Well, I guess there's no way to test it, but I've experienced that before and I kind of figured that was the reason. Yuki: Those inconsistencies in perception are always following us around. Tomosane: Yeah, so long as there are multiple personalities... Once our personalities merge into one, though, it shouldn't be a problem. Yuki: Tomosane, I told you... You don't know what's going to happen in the future― Tomosane: Someone's coming... Coming... Yuki: Huh? Tomosane: You deal with her. Yuki: Huh? Why? Tomosane: I'm no good at talking to women... Yuki: Huh? What woman? A girl opened the door to the rooftop. I think her name was Takashima Zakuro... I talked to her once, but I'm not good at dealing with that type of person. She looks at me with disgust in her eyes, the kind people usually reserve for Mamiya Takuji... Maybe we hate each other because we're so similar? Well, either way, Yuki can probably handle her a lot better than me. Her social skills are really amazing. Yuki: Umm... Who are you? Zakuro: U-Um... I-I'm Takashima Zakuro. I'm in the next class over. Yuki: Takashima... Zakuro? Tomosane: Yeah... You've seen her in the hallway, haven't you? Yuki: I told you... My short term memory is really bad. How am I supposed to remember something like that?! Zakuro: Huh? Um, i-is something the matter? Yuki: Oh, don't worry about it.. * It's nothing, ahahahahaha. Sorry... I'm really bad at remembering faces."* Zakuro: I see... Yuki: What are you doing in a place like this? Zakuro: Oh, uh, nothing in particular. Yuki: Are you cutting class? Zakuro: W-Well, I guess so. Wow... Her personality is exactly what Mamiya Takuji wanted. Her social skills are really great, totally different from mine. The girl's already starting to calm down. She would be grimacing in seconds if I tried to talk to her. Probably out of fear, too... So I can just leave this to her... She can handle this... Tomosane: Huh?! Tomosane: M-My room? Everything changed in the blink of an eye. The time and place were both different from before. Tomosane: This is Mamiya Takuji's... No... I looked over to the side of the bed... The room was partitioned in the middle, so it looked like two separate rooms, but in reality it was just a single large one. Tomosane: I suppose... it's Minakami Yuki's room too. Either Takuji or Yuki... One of them came home. Tomosane: Haa... I'll never get used to this. It's like all that time just disappeared in a puff of smoke. My personality was completely swapped out for someone else... and my consciousness was locked away deep within the subconscious... Tomosane: Even sleepwalkers don't have it this bad... This is really ridiculous... These strange leaps in time and place... Takuji has to be experiencing the same thing. Doesn't he notice these abnormalities? Tomosane: Actually, I think Yuki said he didn't notice them at all... Until just recently, Yuki was aware of these sudden changes in time and place, just like I am. No, the personality known as 'Minakami Yuki' was created long before I was. She was the first to experience this. In truth, I've learned a lot from her. It's only thanks to her that I've come to understand what I am... But she's being gradually cut off from the truth that she's just one of Mamiya Takuji's personalities, so she doesn't notice the inconsistencies like she used to. At first, she simply didn't think it was odd when she noticed one of those inconsistencies, but now she doesn't even realize there are any inconsistencies. She said that on rare occasions she could even feel the remnants of her own falsified memories. If that's true, then perhaps she'll eventually start to attribute my actions and Mamiya Takuji's actions as her own? Or worse, she might be trapped in an entirely fabricated reality. I wonder if that could actually happen. That's just what Yuki told me... I'm not sure if that's actually possible. Our memories are discontinuous, and Yuki can't even spot the inconsistencies anymore, so she has no way of determining how far gone she is. Maybe it's just her gut feeling. When lost within such a labyrinth of cognizances, you can't truly be certain of anything. And Yuki is lost within that maze right now... I'll never know what her world is like. We perceive the world with the same eyes, the same ears, the same brain, and yet... honestly, I never know just what she's looking at. I lose track of time and place in the blink of an eye. That's my world. My memories are never supplemented or falsified... I just experience gaps in time. What nonsense... My world is discontinuous. I alone exist within this discontinuous world inside Mamiya Takuji... Tomosane: A discontinuous world, huh? Well, I guess it's fitting for someone in my position. Fitting. That's the best word for it. Mamiya Takuji created us so he could run away from reality... That's why he changes reality when it pleases him. Minakami Yuki is the personality that Mamiya Takuji desired. She's the personality that he will ultimately acquire. So she doesn't need to know the truth of what's happening. Rather, she should forget it all. The disappearing memories are the unnecessary ones... They won't be needed in her new life. He's forcibly instilling consistency in her memories so that she might be the one to live on in the future. That's Minakami Yuki's situation right now. Minakami Yuki will be reborn. Once she's reborn, she'll lose all her memories up until now and live on as the wonderful personality that Mamiya Takuji desired. But what about me? He's leaving behind all the inconsistencies and disharmonies as memories. That's why... I don't have any memory at all of the times when I'm unconscious. That's my intended state. Simply because I'm the Destroyer, not the Creator or the Harmonizer... The Destroyer ends his life with his own destruction, for the sake of the new world. That's all... So there's no need for me to have memories. It doesn't matter if I'm a discontinuous existence. Tomosane: There's nothing I need to have... "But you should eat something..." Tomosane: ... Hasaki: ... Tomosane: How long have you been there? Hasaki: I was hiding... Tomosane: Hiding? Hasaki: Yeah... I couldn't tell who it was. Tomosane: Oh... So do you know who it is now? Hasaki: Tomosane Nii-san... Tomosane: Don't call me that... Call me Tomosane-san. Hasaki: Welcome home. Dinner's ready, so... eat whenever you want. Tomosane: How about you actually listen to me for once... Hasaki: But Tomosane Nii-san, you're always telling me I can't do things. I can hardly keep track of them all. Tomosane: There aren't that many things you can't do... Besides, I'm not your brother. Hasaki: But you look like my brother, and... Tomo Nii-san, you're the only one I can talk to anymore. Tomosane: Hey, don't call me that. That's even worse. Hasaki: But it's easier to say... Tomosane: There's no way you can call me that. Hasaki: Then we'll compromise with Tomosane Nii-san... That should be fine. Tomosane: No... Don't just go deciding that on your own. Tomosane: Besides, it's not like I'm the only one you can talk to. You can talk to Minakami Yuki, can't you? Hasaki: Yeah, but she's getting further and further away... I can't really talk to her properly anymore. Tomosane: Properly? Hasaki: I guess we can talk, but... I see her every day, but... she can't see me anymore. Tomosane: She can't see you, huh? Now that Yuki's isolation has begun, she's started to see Hasaki and the rabbit doll as two twin girls. Despite that, there aren't any discrepancies in Yuki's actions... Her perceptions and actions differ from those of the real world. And yet... Hasaki can still tell. That Minakami Yuki can't see the real Hasaki anymore... Hasaki: So now you're the only one I can really talk to. Tomosane: Oh... Still, don't call me that. Yuki: Be nice to her. Tomosane: Wha-?! Hasaki: Wh-What's wrong? Tomosane: N-No, it's nothing... Hey, didn't you already show up once today? Yuki: What, do you have a problem with me showing up more than once a day? Tomosane: That's not what I'm talking about. Hasaki: Wh-Who are you talking to? Yuki: Long time no see, Hasaki-chan. Hasaki: Oh, Yuki-san? Yuki: Yeah, sorry about the way I've been acting. I haven't really been able to talk to you... Hasaki: You don't need to apologize... Does that mean you swapped places with Tomo Nii-san? Tomosane: No, we're both here... It's just creepy seeing an illusionary person standing there next to someone who's real. Yuki: I told you, I'm in the exact same boat here. Hasaki: Yuki-san... you can tell it's me? Yuki: Yeah, it seems like it's been a few weeks since I last saw you... Is that right? Hasaki: ...It is. Yuki: Ahahaha... So I was right. Well, I'm never aware that I'm doing it. It just felt like the days flew by. Tomosane: What's going on? You said those times when you forgot everything were getting longer, didn't you? Yuki: Yeah, I did... And they are. Tomosane: Then how did you appear twice in one day? Yuki: They say a lightbulb is brightest just before it goes out. Tomosane: Just before it goes out... So the only reason you're appearing so much is because you're just about to be cut off... Yuki: I already told you that. Hasaki: Um, does that mean you won't be able to see me anymore, Yuki? You'll just see... those twins? Yuki: Yeah, Wakatsuki Kagami and Wakatsuki Tsukasa.. * Ahahahahaha... I'm really sorry. I'm trying my best, but I'm forgetting more than I'm remembering lately."* Yuki: I just wish I was convincing enough to fool you after I got cut off, though. Tomosane: You can't fool her... She can tell the difference. Yuki: I guess no one else can tell, though... I guess it's just because we're so close. That's why she can tell that I'm seeing something completely different from what she is. Hasaki: But... I'm glad to see you again after so long, Yuki-san. Tomosane: Hey, Hasaki. Hasaki: Yes? Tomosane: Why do you call her Yuki-san? By your logic, she should be Yuki Nee-san or Yuki Nii-san, shouldn't she? Hasaki: Yuki-san is Yuki-san... She's always been Yuki-san... Tomosane: You're not even trying to give me a real explanation. Yuki: You can't blame her. I'm a girl on the inside, but I look like a guy on the outside. How's she supposed to call me Nii-san or Nee-san? Tomosane: On the outside... huh? That makes sense. To Hasaki, that's what Yuki looks like. To me, it looked like Yuki was standing next to Hasaki. Of course, that Yuki was an illusion. It was nothing more than an image created by my brain. But that illusion was laughing and talking animatedly with Hasaki. It was hard to shake the feeling that she was actually there. But Hasaki can't see the Yuki I see at all... She just hears Minakami Yuki's voice from Mamiya Takuji's mouth... It's the same when I talk, too. Tomosane: That's still no reason to call me her brother. Yuki: Meanie... Why are you so stubborn? You're making your big sister sad. Tomosane: And for the record, you're not my sister either! Yuki: Do you want to be lovers, then? Hasaki: You can't do that! Yuki: Oh? Hasaki: U-Um, well... Hasaki: The Yuki-san that you see is really pretty, isn't she? Tomosane: Who said that?! Yuki: I did. Tomosane: Don't make stuff up! How would you know what you look like to me?! Yuki: Well, I am Mamiya Takuji's ideal woman. Why wouldn't I be beautiful? Tomosane: You might be what Mamiya Takuji's likes, but I'm not into girls like you at all! Yuki: What, so you prefer petite little girls like Hasaki-chan? Hasaki: Huh? U-Um! Tomosane: Are you dumb? Hasaki's my little sister, isn't she? Yuki: Oh really? Tomosane: Shit... Yuki: You just said it yourself. So she's your little sister, huh? Tomosane: N-No, I mean physically... Physically, she's my little sister. Yuki: Physically brother and sister? That sounds kind of erotic. Tomosane: -No! Genetically! She's only my sister genetically! I'm a different personality from Mamiya Takuji, so in that way she's not my sister! Hasaki: ... Hasaki: How convenient... Tomosane: Huh? Hasaki: ...In other words, you want to treat me like your sister when it's convenient, and like a stranger when it's not. Wh-What? She's getting really upset for some reason. Hasaki: If you're just a stranger... then make your own dinner, Yuuki-san! Hasaki suddenly turned and walked toward the door. Yuki: Look... You could be a little nicer to her, Tomosane. Hasaki: Wha-?! Tomosane: Hey! Yuki pushed Hasaki toward me. Hasaki lost her balance and fell into my arms. Hasaki: U-Um, um, uuh, um... Tomosane: I-It wasn't me! In reality, it probably looked like I had suddenly embraced Hasaki from behind. Tomosane: Y-Yuki did that! Hasaki: U-U-Umm... It kind of hurts when you squeeze so tightly. Yuki: Come on, you could afford to give her a hug once in a while. You're brother and sister, so it's perfectly normal. Tomosane: No, it's not! I don't know what world you live in, but over here it's not normal to hug your sister like this! Hasaki: Y-Yuki-san, is that you? Yuki: Yeah. Does it feel like I'm pushing you two together? Tomosane: Wh-What exactly are you making us do?! Yuki: You two should get along... as brother and sister. You're gonna make your big sister sad. Tomosane: I told you, you're not my big sister! Yuki: But you know... you're gonna be the only one left who can be nice to Hasaki-chan. Tomosane: No, that's not true... That's not true, Yuki. Yuki: Yes, it is! Usually, Yuki is perfectly laid back, but this time she was pretty angry. I guess Yuki didn't say that to anyone but me... Hasaki just looked at me, apparently not hearing Yuki's outburst. Yuki: You're the only one who can protect Hasaki-chan. Yuki: Why can't you understand that? Tomosane: That's just what you want to believe... Yuki: Why do you think that?! Tomosane: You're just isolated... You know damn well why that's happening. Tomosane: We were created to protect Hasaki... We each have our role to act out, for Hasaki's sake. Tomosane: For Hasaki, who has nothing, we must kill Mamiya Takuji's existence... and create a new Minakami Yuki personality. Yuki: I told you, that's not set in stone! How am I supposed to protect Hasaki once I'm completely cut off?! Tomosane: You will protect her. Even if she thinks she's protecting Wakatsuki Kagami and Tsukasa, Minakami Yuki will still do anything to protect Tsukasa, who is Hasaki... That's how it's was designed. Yuki: That's not the same as protecting Hasaki-chan! Tomosane: Who cares if it's the same? The end result is that you'll be protecting Hasaki. Isn't that good enough? Yuki: What about Hasaki-chan's heart? If I can't protect her heart because I've been cut off from the real world, am I really protecting her? Tomosane: What more can we do?! Yuki: I told you to just try being nice to her for once! Tomosane: My existence is going to disappear. It's your role to protect Hasaki... My role is to destroy the personality known as Mamiya Takuji. Yuki: You're just assuming that's true! Tomosane: Are you dumb? It's not just an assumption... Even you know that this was all determined ahead of time. Tomosane: I'll kill Mamiya Takuji, and then I'll disappear... You'll be isolated from that ugly truth, and you'll be the one to protect Hasaki. Yuki: You don't understand anything. You're no better than Takuji... You're just a little brat. Yuki: Do you think the end result is all that matters in life? Tomosane: You're the little brat! You're constantly jabbering on about nonsense. Yuki: ... For a moment it looked like Yuki was about to say something, but then she just smiled. Yuki: Haa... All right, all right, I said a little too much. I apologize. Yuki: But... you can't protect Hasaki-chan if you never try to understand her feelings. Yuki: Even if you really are going to disappear... you're the only one who can truly talk to her right now... Yuki: So... just try being a little nicer to her. Yuki disappeared like a mirage. As that happened, Hasaki moved away from me. Hasaki: U-Um, Yuki-san! Tomosane: If you're looking for Yuki, she's not here anymore. Hasaki: Huh? Really? Tomosane: Yeah... We got into a bit of a fight. I dunno if I ticked her off or what, but she just disappeared. Hasaki: Oh... Hasaki: I wonder if I'll get to see the real Yuki again... Tomosane: Well, she's always had a strong sense of responsibility * I'm sure she won't let that be our final farewell... She'll come back soon."* Hasaki: ...Yeah. Hasaki: Oh no, dinner... is probably cold by now. Tomosane: Yeah, probably. Hasaki: I'll warm it up again. Give me like ten minutes... Sorry! Hasaki dashed out of the room. Tomosane: Haa... Yuki wanted to say something... At the end, she held something back. Even though we're the same person... I can't tell what she's thinking. Though to be honest, I don't understand myself all that well either. There isn't very much I know about myself... I learned of my own existence through pain. The smell of rusting iron in my nose. A decaying structure... A condemned building... Those were the kinds of things I could smell... Ow... Pain ran through my jaw. The smell of iron, and... this pain... Did I bite down on a thumb tack? No, that's not it... That's not it... Tomosane: What's... going on? Numada: What's wrong with him? You give him a concussion or something? Nishimura: Hahaha. Mamiya, the world of fighting is kill or be killed. Tomosane: Fighting... Two unfamiliar men... One was grabbing my shirt by the lapels. When I saw that, I noticed my shirt was pretty dirty. The buttons were torn off... and there was slobber and dried blood on it. The other two men's shirts were completely clean. A one-sided fight... Are these guys really that tough? Even if they are... Tomosane: It doesn't matter. Shiroyama: Huh? Tomosane: Right... I grabbed him by the wrist. I then used my left hand to drive his wrist into his chest... and my right hand to grab his arm and twist it upward. My body moved with those ingrained motions. Shiroyama: Agh?! When I broke his wrist, he crumpled helplessly. Tomosane: ... They're not strong at all... Tomosane: What... That's... Shiroyama: Gyaaaah! Tomosane: That's a disappointment. It was so easy to grab him by the wrist... How did I get beaten up before? Numada: Y-You bastard. Tomosane: ... Numada: Ugh! He clutched his midsection as he fell. I stomped on his face as he laid on the ground. He lost consciousness after the first stomp, but I kept stomping his face into the dirt anyway. Shiroyama: Ah! When he saw what happened to his friend, the man with the broken wrist screamed. I guess he lost the will to fight... I put all my weight into a kick and got him directly in the jaw. He tried to use his other arm to block it, but he wasn't fast enough, so he fell backward onto his ass. I straddled him on the ground. Tomosane: You thought I would let you off with just the arm? Tomosane: My hands are fucked up... My fists were covered in a thick layer of blood. Not just other people's blood, either. My hand was covered in multiple lacerations, each more than ten centimeters long. Flesh was protruding from the gaping holes. Tomosane: I must have cut myself on their teeth. I'm sure there were more efficient ways of dealing with them if I just wanted to defeat them. At the very least, I wouldn't have punched them in the face so many times. The blood just rushed to my head. Tomosane: Well then, cleanup time... Shiroyama: S-Stop! Numada: F-Forgive me! Numada: Agh! Shiroyama: Eek! I stuffed branches in their noses and mouths, and then punched them like that. Blood flew everywhere. There was too much blood to see how bad his face looked, but... he would probably need stitches in and around his mouth. Shiroyama: S-Stop... Tomosane: You never stopped when anyone asked you to, now did you? Tomosane: But... My legs kind of feel breezy... It was really easy to move, but... it kind of felt like I was wearing a hakama. Tomosane: Why am I wearing a hakama? Maybe this was a match... That's why I was wearing clothes for martial arts... Tomosane: ... Tomosane: Ah! Tomosane: Wh-What is this?! It didn't feel breezy because I was wearing a hakama... It was just a regular skirt. Tomosane: Wh-Why am I wearing a skirt?! Tomosane: Y-You bastards, what the fuck is this?! Shiroyama: S-Sorry! Shiroyama: Eek! Tomosane: You think you can apologize for this?! Why would they make me wear something like this? This is a girl's uniform. Why am I wearing a girl's uniform? Tomosane: Y-You little punks! Shiroyama: E-Eek! Numada: P-Please! You'll kill us! Tomosane: Ugh! Fearing the worst, I... checked my underwear. The underwear was... Incredibly soft... and very tight. The parts that felt kind of rough... were probably lace... This isn't anything a man should be wearing. Tomosane: Y-You bastards... What did you make me put on? Numada: Eek! I was more than just angry... I was desperate... Why am I... Wearing this... What the fuck was happening up until now? Wearing girls' clothing... And they even made me put on girls' underwear... Is that why it feels so wet down there? Tomosane: Y-You bastards... Numada: Eek! I inflicted as much pain as possible without killing them. This time I focused on inflicting pain on parts of their body other than their faces. They might not be able to hold a pencil for a while... I took one of their uniforms. It was a bit loose, but it was better than nothing. I couldn't do anything about the underwear, so I just didn't wear any. It's not like a man has anything to be embarrassed about if they don't want to wear any underwear. Tomosane: Haa... Tomosane: I can't believe this... Even if I had no recollection of the event... I can't believe they would do that to me. What utter humiliation. It makes me want to hurt myself... Tomosane: Disgusting... I was too scared to ask what happened before. If I asked, I would have killed them when I heard the answer. Tomosane: I wiped it off with a tissue, but... That sticky stuff on my body must have been semen. Well, my ass doesn't hurt, so at least the worst thing possible didn't happen... I'd like to believe it didn't, anyway. Tomosane: Is getting fucked in the ass really the worst thing possible? Thinking about it, it wouldn't be odd if they had done that... I'm getting depressed just thinking about it. Tomosane: What the hell did they do to me? Just to be safe, I rinsed out my mouth too. I didn't know what the hell happened. Tomosane: Well, whatever... I'll just torture these fuckers until they want to die. Numada: Ahh... Shiroyama: I'm so sorry, I'm so sorry... "..." Tomosane: Hmm? "Uuuhg... Uahhh..." What? That sound... isn't one of the guys from before... This voice... I heard someone's voice from the clothes I took off. Tomosane: What is this? This whimpering voice... I think I've heard it before... I think I heard it... before I came to exist... The discarded clothes rose up and filled out. After the process was complete... Takuji: Please stop... Don't hit me anymore... Tomosane: ...Mamiya... Takuji... The discarded clothes on the ground... turned into Mamiya Takuji. Mamiya Takuji was still wearing that female uniform as he lay there on the ground, curled into a ball and bawling his eyes out. Tomosane: Haa... Somehow, I understood everything once I saw that. Where I was... Where I should be going... I instantly knew what I was and why I existed. Tomosane: In a way, maybe I'm blessed. Do other people have such a clear raison d'etre? No, they suffer because they don't... But I have been blessed. Because I was born with a reason to exist, no matter what that reason is, it is a blessing. Tomosane: Hey! Takuji: I'm so sorry! I'm so sorry! Tomosane: What are you doing? Takuji: I'm so sorry, I'm so sorry. Please don't hit me anymore... Takuji: Eek! Tomosane: Hey, you... I didn't ask for an apology. I asked what you're doing. Takuji: Ah, I'm so sorry! Tomosane: Why are you wearing girls' clothes? Takuji: U-Um, these are... Tomosane: That's nasty... Is that some new fad? Every time I hit him... I felt the same pain. It was completely different from when I was hitting those other guys. I share the same body as this nasty fucker. I'm a separate personality born within this disgusting human being. And my raison d'etre is... Tomosane: Hey, you... How about you give me a good explanation for this... Takuji: Eek! To erase Mamiya Takuji... To eradicate Mamiya Takuji's personality and purge him from this body. That's what he wanted me to do. He made me for the purpose of his own destruction. That's why... Tomosane: Come on! I felt intense pain every time I punched him... Every punch lit my brain up with pain. I have pretty good technique... Even I'm impressed... I never would've thought this tiny body was capable of inflicting so much pain. Tomosane: Do you get turned on when you wear those clothes?! Fucking disgusting! Takuji: I-It's not like I wanted to... Ah! Tomosane: Yes, you did! It was through pain that I first came into existence. That pain turned into light... and then when my vision cleared... The pain sewed together the world's seams. But the world isn't light. The world isn't vision. I experienced that firsthand. Existence isn't only defined by vision. Then is it defined by the five senses? Sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell... Is the world the totality of the things which one can sense? Is it enough to simply see the world? Is it enough to simply hear the world? The world's texture. The world's taste. For instance, the taste of dirt. The smell of grass. The feel of the wind. The sound of trees swaying in the distance. And the great blue sky above. I saw the clouds racing across the blue sky, I heard the sound of the city, I felt the wind, and I tasted saliva. That is the world. The things I can feel make up the world. Everything that has been given to me is the world. Most people understand it to be so. But is it truly so? ...No. I didn't believe that for a second. As one who exists only momentarily, I won't accept lies such as 'the world is everything you can perceive in a given moment.' Everything I can perceive is neither the world nor the world's limits. I learned that fact. I know a world that I can't see, hear, touch, or taste. Beyond the edge of the world... I know things that I'll never see, never touch, never feel. It's simple. I was born in this moment. I should know nothing more than what I can perceive at this moment. I know nothing. And yet, this building that I'm looking at right now... Even if I can't see its interior, I know its interior. I can imagine what lies on the other side of that wall... I can imagine what lies beyond the sky... What's more, I know the meaning of many things impossible to experience. That's perfectly natural. For instance, say someone passes a house every morning on their way to school. It doesn't matter who it is. A normal house that doesn't stand out in any way. That someone sees the house's door every morning. Not a door that anyone would pay attention to. Why don't we fear what lies on the other side of that door? Beyond that door... That could very well be the edge of the world. At the very least, we've never seen what lies on the other side. We can't deny the possibility that the world's limit lies on the other side of that door. And yet. We know. Nothing unknown to us lies on the other side... There's no way the edge of the world could lie on the other side of that door. If one doesn't fear when turning a corner they've never turned before, then they have no reason to fear that door. I know that the world also consists of scenes we will never see in our lifetime. Sight is not the world. Hearing is not the world. Neither is touch, taste, or smell... It can't even be pain. Then what is the world? The answer isn't actually very complicated. The world... is everything that can be put into words. The world... is everything that has meaning. Truth... and fiction. There is such a difference... But it's not so complicated... There's no need to make it sound complicated. There's no need to dwell upon the unknowable. Takuji: Agh... Ahh... ... Tomosane: My hand... won't open anymore... I punched too much... I beat three people to a pulp in such a short time... If I truly wanted to destroy them... I could've done it with a tenth as much effort, but my goal was to inflict pain. I used my fist more than necessary. Tomosane: Take that off... It's nasty. Takuji: Huh? Tomosane: Don't question me. Tomosane: Take it off! Takuji: The underwear too? Tomosane: Of course! Take off all those girls' clothes! Takuji: Hhk! I took the female uniform away from him. When I looked at the nametag, it said Takashima Zakuro. Tomosane: Haa... I cleaned the dirty underwear in the sink and used some tissues to get the dirt off the uniform. Tomosane: This girl is such a pain... Maybe I could've just washed it in the laundry, but that girl was probably in quite a bind without her uniform. I found a bag to stick her uniform in and headed to her classroom. ... That one...? There was one lonesome student still in her P.E. uniform. It looked just like someone had bullied her and hidden her uniform... Tomosane: Haa... These guys are such a pain in the ass. Even if those bullies made him do it, it was still Takuji who actually stole these clothes... It's really not a good situation. I walked up to the crestfallen girl anyway. Zakuro: Huh? Zakuro: Wh-Who are you? Tomosane: These were stolen, right? Zakuro: Huh? Tomosane: Your uniform... is in here... Zakuro: Wh-Who are you? Tomosane: Me? I'm... I almost said Yuuki Tomosane, but I managed to stop myself in time. No one by that name exists. Tomosane: I'm Mamiya Takuji... I'm in the next class over. Zakuro: Wh-Why? Tomosane: Who knows... Anyway, I'm giving them back. Zakuro: U-Um... Tomosane: What? Zakuro: Um, it looks like you're really hurt... Tomosane: Hmm? Really? I touched my own face with my hand. It was covered in cuts and bruises. Zakuro: U-Um, did you get this back for me? Tomosane: No, that's not it... Zakuro: But you're hurt. Tomosane: Haa... I was threatened and forced to steal it. I came to return it. Zakuro: Huh? Tomosane: That's all... Zakuro: U-Um... I quickly left without saying anything else. Partly because I didn't want to associate with anyone Mamiya Takuji didn't know... But more importantly, I'm no good at dealing with women. Tomosane: Haa... What a mess... It's after school... The sun is low in the sky. I was alone in the hallway, puzzled... People know nothing at the moment of their birth. A newborn infant can't even look out at the world. At the moment of birth, the only thing they see is light. Their eyes can't even decipher shapes or colors. I was just... less than an hour ago, born into this world. And yet I could already differentiate colors and objects, and I had high level language skills (compared to an infant, anyway)... Common sense (at least enough to tell where I am)... and on top of that, I apparently had some skill in martial arts. I had far greater knowledge, intelligence, and skill than an infant. But on the other hand, there were many things I didn't know. For instance, who I was... No, I knew my name was Yuuki Tomosane. I also understood that I was an alternate personality created by Mamiya Takuji's unstable mental state. But other than that... For instance, Mamiya Takuji's family, grade, friends, etc. I didn't know any of those. I didn't even know where Mamiya Takuji's house is. Tomosane: Now then... What should I do from here on out? There was a lot I knew, but also a lot I didn't. Tomosane: ...What should I do now? "...What are you gonna do?" That was a completely unknown sensation. No... It reminded me of one thing... It was close to the feeling of my birth... A pain that somehow felt like a sound. Tomosane: Who's there?! I turned to face the voice I heard, but no one was there. Tomosane: Ugh! This pain... No, is this the voice? The voice resounded inside my head... "What... You're totally useless..." Tomosane: Wh-Who are you?! Agh... It was the same voice... Every time I heard the voice, a sensation almost like pain raced through my brain. Tomosane: Damn it... I looked for the owner of that voice... I surveyed the hallway. I didn't see anyone. What is this... This is so annoying... Tomosane: What is this feeling? "Look at me... Yuuki Tomosane-kun." Tomosane: Wh-What? Just now... they called my name... How would anyone know my name? "Huh? Did I get your name wrong? But Yuuki Tomosane fits, I think... You're not Mamiya Tomosane, are you?" Tomosane: Who are you? My eyes had lost their focus. It was like I was listening to a radio that wasn't quite tuned in to a station... That was the only way to describe that strange feeling. "Jeez, you're no good at this... Well, whatever..." Tomosane: Agh... Someone hit me with a powerful blow in the chest, knocking me back. Tomosane: ... I had felt the same thing sometime in the past... Or maybe that was just my imagination. I was just born into this world today. I didn't have any memories of my own. Then are those memories of Mamiya Takuji's past? Is this someone who Mamiya Takuji has been struck by in the past? No, now's not the time to be thinking about that. The direction of the next attack. I took up a defensive stance facing the direction the attack had come from. Someone definitely just hit me. That's all. There's no way my attacker could be invisible... They have to be hiding somehow. Tomosane: ... I sharpened my senses... "Good, good... You're one to pay attention in battle, I see. I like kids like you, Tomosane." I turned to the voice. A person that wasn't there before... I was shocked to see her standing there, calm and composed, as if she had been there the whole time. Tomosane: Wh-Who are you?! Yuki: I wonder... Who am I? She wasn't tall. Her body was thin too. And more importantly... she wasn't a man. Was it really this woman that just hit me? That's hard to believe. More importantly... Why is she attacking me? No reason came to mind. The reason my body remembered these attacks was probably because Mamiya Takuji had experienced a similar attack. If so... Tomosane: Are you with those thugs from earlier? Yuki: What thugs? Oh... those guys? Shiroyama, Numada, and Nishimura, you mean? Tomosane: So I was right... Did you come to pay me a personal visit because I trashed your lackies? Yuki: ...What? Haha, your big sister is really disappointed, Tomosane. I didn't think you were stupid... Well, have it your way. Tomosane: Wha-?! Tomosane: Ugh! Yuki: Whoa! Yuki: Oh, scary, scary... You're really fast... What's the meaning of this... She's so strong... She's nothing like those guys I fought earlier. I can't believe this woman is beating me... Yuki: Oh my, you look positively stunned. The world's a big place, you know? There are bound to be a few people stronger than you... maybe even a few women. Tomosane: The world's a big place, but the school not so much. What's going on? I wouldn't lose to amateurs no matter how many of them came at me at once, but against this woman... She's strong... Maybe even stronger than me... Yuki: Well, I'm sorry to do this in the middle of battle, but let me introduce myself. I'm Minakami Yuki, your big sister. Tomosane: Big sister? Yuki: You're open! Tomosane: Uck! Tomosane: Guh! Yuki: Ahahahahaha, you're so naive, Tomosane! But I'll give it to you, that was a good block. Tomosane: Th-That was dirty! Yuki: You had such a dumb look on your face that I just couldn't stop myself from going in for at least one cheap shot. Tomosane: What do you mean, one?! You tried to hit me four times, you bastard! Yuki: I'm not a bastard. I'm a girl, you know. Tomosane: Shut up! Tomosane: Haa, haa, haaa... What's with this woman... It's like she knows what I'm going to do before I do it... Tomosane: Who the hell are you? Yuki: I told you, I'm your big sister. Tomosane: Our surnames are completely different! Yuki: Maybe it's possible for your sister to have a different surname. Tomosane: Oh, so you're my stepsister, then... Yuki: Nope. Tomosane: Then what are you? Yuki: I already told you, I'm your big sister. Tomosane: Don't toy with me! Yuki: I'm not toying with you. Can't you trust anyone, Tomosane? Tomosane: Shut up! Why should I trust you after you attacked me and then bullshitted me with your lies?! Yuki: What's your problem? You should trust me. I'm just trying to be a nice big sister! Tomosane: I don't think I would call anyone nice after they assaulted me! Tomosane: Guh... Yuki: That's because you wouldn't trust me. Tomosane: What the hell do you mean, trust? You're the one who hit first! Yuki: But I'm a girl. You have to give me a handicap... Tomosane: A handicap has nothing to do with it. No one would attack their own brother out of nowhere like that! Yuki: Sure they would. Tomosane: You're not my fucking sister! Tomosane: After all, I only exist inside Mamiya Takuji's mi―! ...Wait. Yuki: Oh, you finally figured it out? Tomosane: Are you... Yuki: That's right... I was born before you, so you should be looking up to me. I'm your big sister, Minakami Yuki. Tomosane: Before me? Yuki: Yeah, we're two souls sharing Mamiya Takuji's body. Tomosane: An alternate personality... Yuki: Yeah, though I guess since he has three souls in one body, most people would probably just say he's possessed or something. Tomosane: I don't think so... They call that dissociative identity disorder. Yuki: Dissociative identity disorder... I suppose we're both products of his dissociation and mental trauma, then. Yuki: Not that it really matters. Why don't you take a look at your own body? Tomosane: My body? Tomosane: Wha-? The bruises?! The bruises where she hit me earlier were disappearing... while the ones from my fight earlier were still there... Tomosane: Wh-Why? Yuki: It's not like we actually fought just now... You weren't punching yourself, you know? Yuki: That was just a mock fight... Well, we could fight for real if we really wanted, but it wouldn't accomplish much. You'd hurt yourself just as much as you'd hurt me. Tomosane: We'd hurt ourselves with every blow? Yuki: Yeah. Anyone else watching us would just see someone hitting himself... Yuki: And for the record, if anyone saw that battle just now, it would look like we were just standing there, lost in thought... Like we were spacing out, I guess? Yuki: This whole conversation would pretty much be the same too. Tomosane: This conversation too... Yuki: Yep. If you think of it like a telephone, it's the difference between an internal line and an external line. Or maybe it's closer to the difference between LAN and an Internet connection? Tomosane: I see... So everything that just happened was inside my head... Yuki: That's why I can do all that without worrying. Tomosane: ... It feels like this is the same conversation... But something's a little different... Yuki: Do you understand? Tomosane: This is... Yuki: Now you're actually using your body and speaking the words. That's fine and all, but I don't really recommend it. You know, just in case someone's watching. Tomosane: It would look like... I was talking to myself... Yuki: Yeah, pretty much... Well, not like it really matters when it's just the two of us. Yuki: And that's about all. Once again, nice to meet you. I'm your big sister, Minakami Yuki. Tomosane: ...No, how does that make you my big sister? Yuki: We were both made by the same person, and I came first. That makes me your big sister, right? Tomosane: No, not really. Yuki: Call me Yuki-nee from now on. Tomosane: Yeah, right... Yuki: Oh, you're getting better. Tomosane: You gave away your secret. Now I know what you're doing, what you know, what you're thinking... Yuki: Oh my, so you've figured out how I'm fighting? Tomosane: Yeah, we share the same body... We can feel each other's movements just before each attack. Tomosane: If you just follow the movements of my body, you can react much faster than if you were reacting by sight. Yuki: Exactly. Well, it'll only be useful against me and Takuji, though. Tomosane: But... it's not that easy to react to the movements of your own body. Yuki: Exactly... For a moment, our brain treats it as our own body's movement. There's a time lag in recognizing it as the other's movement. Tomosane: Hmm... So then, what are you... Yuki: How many times do I have to tell you? I'm Minakami Yuki... I'm a personality that was created before you. Tomosane: By Mamiya Takuji? Yuki: I guess so... Well, he's not aware of it himself, so maybe I shouldn't say he made me. Tomosane: So then, why are you still attacking me? Yuki: Hehehe... You seem like a brat is all. I just wanted to make it clear that I'm your superior. Tomosane: Hmph... I already know everything you try to do. Yuki: Hehehe, you're so dumb... I'll show you the fruits of years of labor. Tomosane: Wha-! Tomosane: Guh... Yuki: How about that! Tomosane: The fuck do you mean! Are you dumb?! Why are you flashing your panties everywhere with that high kick?! Yuki: It hit, didn't it? Tomosane: I was surprised, you dumbass! Of course it hit! Yuki: Oh, what? Are you interested in my underwear? Tomosane: As if. Tomosane: Huh? She held her leg up like in the last kick, and then she grabbed my arm. Tomosane: Wha-?! Yuki: Fighting dirty... Tomosane: S-Stupid... You lifted up your leg for that... Ugh?! Yuki: It's elementary~ Tomosane: Guh! That dumbass... She made it look like she was going to do the same kick, and then she went for an arm lock instead. In a place like a hallway... that's dangerous... And with her panties on display, too... In her own words. Yuki: Who cares? No one but you can see them. Tomosane: That's exactly the problem! Yuki: We're siblings, so I don't really care about that. Well, if I didn't have any panties on, we might have a problem, though. Tomosane: Of course we would! Minakami Yuki has never had much common sense, but either way, she taught me a lot of things. This first fight taught me how to use my body. Particularly, it taught me how to align the channels of my perception. The way to meet Mamiya Takuji and Minakami Yuki (though it only works when I exist at the same time as either of them). And how to avoid meeting Mamiya any time he comes into existence (though it doesn't work on Yuki, since she knows how to align the channels as well). There were plenty of other things she taught me. About Mamiya Takuji. About Hasaki, his little sister. About Mamiya's family. About the Wakatsukis. About Hakushuukyou Bar and Master. Plenty of other things... She's the only reason I have to live. Though I would never admit it to her. Anytime she brought it up, I changed the subject. Tomosane: I never told her that... Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san, I warmed up your food. Hasaki called for me from downstairs. Tomosane: Haa... Tomosane: I told you to stop calling me Tomo Nii-san! I yelled back down the stairs at her.
Tomosane: Ah... The sky... It was there when I awoke. There was something I needed to do first... Organize my memory. It's become a habit because of the way I live. "You finally waking up?" Tomosane: Yuki...? Yuki: Don't worry. It's just me. Tomosane: Oh... Tomosane: Not that I really care, but lately you've been showing up every day. Yuki: I guess so. I didn't see you for a few weeks before, too. Well, it's gotta be because I'm about to be isolated. Maybe I should be thankful for this chance... Tomosane: It's just a pain in the ass if you ask me. Yuki just smiled back at me as if she hadn't heard what I just said. Tomosane: What are you grinning for? You're creeping me out... Yuki: Oh, nothing. Yuki laughed and looked up to the sky. What's up with her? Yuki: Hey, Tomosane. Tomosane: What? Yuki: The blue sky is nice too, isn't it? Tomosane: ...Huh? What are you talking about? Yuki: It's nice seeing the great blue sky spread out overhead, stretching into the distance... Tomosane: What's with you, all of a sudden... Yuki: All of a sudden, huh? You know, I've been thinking a lot while I was away, and I've been experiencing a lot of new things. Tomosane: What about it? Yuki: Oh nothing... It's not so bad sitting under the blue sky and looking at your dumb face. Just the two of us, you know? Tomosane: My dumb face? Why, you little... Yuki: Don't get mad at me... You showed up a while ago, but for a long time you were just sleeping there next to me. Tomosane: I did? I was sleeping? I-Is that possible? Normally, while we're sleeping... or rather, while we're not conscious, we can't see each other. Being unconscious is the same as not existing. Or so I thought... Yuki: It's the first time I've seen it happen, too. Until now, we've always disappeared any time we were sleeping, so we couldn't see each other. Yuki: It... might be another sign that a big change is happening. Tomosane: An omen, huh... Yuki: Well, either way, I had fun watching you sleep. Tomosane: You're such a freak... You really think it's fun watching someone sleep? Yuki: It was fun. I've never seen your sleeping face before... I was really happy. Tomosane: Anyway, don't do that again. Yuki: Oh, now, I don't know if I can promise that... Tomosane: Shut up! If it happens again, wake me up! Yuki: Ahahahaha... That would be such a waste. Tomosane: The hell are you talking about? Yuki: ... Yuki looked a little troubled, but she still laughed. Tomosane: ... I hadn't seen her wear this expression very often. It left me a bit confused. Tomosane: Wh-What are you laughing at... Yuki: Ehehe... Oh, nothing... Yuki: It's not important. Anyway, it's really a pain losing memories left and right like this... It's like getting carried off somewhere while you're sleeping. Tomosane: Yeah... Maybe this is how sleepwalkers feel. Yuki: It's way worse than just sleepwalking... Someone else is controlling your body while you're sleeping. Tomosane: Yeah. Sometimes we overlap, though, like we are now... So what were you doing on the rooftop? Yuki: Well, it's kinda like... You remember that girl who came up here yesterday? Tomosane: Yesterday... Oh, Takashima? Yuki: Yeah, she came here again today. Tomosane: Hmm, I see... Well, not like I care. Yuki: You're the one who asked. You should care! Tomosane: Are you friends with her? She's kinda gloomy... Yuki: She's not that gloomy. I just met her yesterday, though... I didn't even know her name. Tomosane: That's probably because of the holes in your memory... Well, putting that aside, that's two days in a row we've come across Takashima up here. What's that mean? Yuki: Maybe it's a coincidence? Tomosane: No, I don't think so. I've been staking out this area for quite a while yet I've never seen her come here. Yuki: Oh... Then I wonder what it could be... The answer was simple. That woman was interested in Yuki... Interested in her as a member of the opposite sex. Minakami Yuki's personality would definitely endear her to a girl like that. Yuki: Oh, Hasaki-chan? Hasaki: ... Hasaki stared at us. Hasaki: U-Um, is that you, Yuki-san? Yuki: Uh, yeah... Sorry, am I in the way? I'll just disappear... Tomosane: Can you really disappear at will? That would be really convenient. Yuki: Ahahaha... Nope, not really. Hasaki: Oh, Tomo Nii-san, you're there too... Tomosane: Is that a problem? Hasaki: Not at all... I came to see you, Tomo Nii-san. Yuki: Oh, so I really am in the way? Hasaki: Oh, not at all * I'm really glad to see you more often, Yuki-san."* Yuki: Really? That's nice to hear.. * but wouldn't it be better if I left you alone with Tomosane?"* Hasaki: N-No, no, not at all! Not at all! Yuki: If you say so... Oh, did you pack him lunch? Hasaki: Ah, yeah, I came to bring Tomo Nii-san his lunchbox. Tomosane: How many times do I have to tell you? I can just buy bread, so I don't need you to make me lunch... Besides, it's Saturday. And don't call me Tomo Nii-san! Hasaki: It doesn't matter if it's Saturday. I'm not gonna be home today, so you'll need something to eat. Hasaki: And there's no nutritional value in bread. It doesn't have anything but carbs, fat, sugar, and salt in it. Yuki: She's right. Come on Tomo, you should be happy your cute little sister made it for you. Tomosane: Why are you calling me Tomo... Yuki: It's just a nickname. Don't worry about every little detail. Tomosane: Don't make up nicknames for me... Jeez. Damn her... It's bad enough that Hasaki calls me Tomo Nii-san for some reason... Tomosane: Hmm? What's this? Why are there two lunchboxes? Hasaki: I'm going to be working at Hakushuu pretty late tonight, so I might not be able to make you dinner. Tomosane: Hakushuu? You're gonna be late tonight? Hasaki: Yeah. I'm not really sure, but Master said it might take some time. Tomosane: What's that about? I didn't hear anything about that. Hasaki: He didn't call you too? Tomosane: Yeah, I'm not working today... He should've called me first if he was short on workers. Hasaki: Who knows? Maybe there are some jobs he doesn't think you can do? Jobs that Hasaki can do that I can't? ...Are there any jobs like that? Well, not like I care. Either way, Hasaki will be working late tonight... All right. Good, good... So she's not gonna be home... Hasaki: ... Tomosane: Huh? Wh-What? She's glaring at me... Hasaki: You sure seem happy about something... Tomosane: Wh-What do you mean? Hasaki: You're hiding something. Tomosane: Wh-What? Now you're accusing me of something... Yuki: An accusation, huh? Tomosane: What's your problem, Yuki? Hasaki: Haa... You must be happy because I'm not going to be in the house, right? Tomosane: N-No way... Tomosane: A-And besides, you shouldn't be walking around the school by yourself, Hasaki. You're not even a student here, you know... Hasaki: You're dodging the question... Yuki: Tomosane-kun, just what could you be getting up to when you have the house to yourself? Tomosane: Wh-What are you trying to say?! Yuki: Oh, nothing, but I am kind of curious why you're getting so worked up about this. Tomosane: I am not. Yuki: Liar. Your pulse is going up too. I wonder why that would happen. Tomosane: N-No, that's just... Hasaki: Hmm, so you want to do something alone since I'm not going to be home... Tomosane: N-No, I don't... Stop making crap up, Yuki! Tomosane: M-More importantly, you really shouldn't be hanging around at school anymore. Hasaki: You changed the subject again... Tomosane: No, I'm being serious. Hasaki: You don't need to worry about that. I'm making sure I don't stand out. Tomosane: How do you not stand out? You're carrying that rabbit doll around... Hasaki: I hide it. Tomosane: It's too big to hide... Yuki: It'll be fine. It's never been a problem before. Tomosane: But... I'm a problem child, and Hasaki is related to me. Everyone just pretends to have not seen her. Yuki: Which means it's not a problem, right? Tomosane: Of course there's a problem. Yuki: Oh right, your rabbit has gotten pretty beaten up, hasn't it? Hasaki: Ah, yeah... Yuki: Let me see... I can do something about that... Yuki: Ah, Tomosane, grab the sewing kit out of my bag. Tomosane: It's the same whether I do it or you do! Yuki: Just play along... Look, it's in that small pouch there. See it? Tomosane: You actually carry this around with you? Yuki: Don't worry about it. Now, where's the white thread... Here it is. Yuki fixed the frayed spots on Hasaki's doll... She's really talented. Even I can't deny it... Tomosane: You can sew too? Yuki: So can you. You've just never tried it... It's one of the skills this body had to begin with. Hasaki: Yeah... Nii-san could sew too... Tomosane: Now that I think of it, Mamiya Takuji made that doll for Hasaki, didn't he? Yuki: Mamiya Takuji-kun, huh... Tomosane: Hmm? What's wrong? Yuki: Oh, uh, I guess so... This body's owner made the stuffed doll for her. Yuki: Ahaha... He didn't have the money to buy it, so instead he went to the store every day and took measurements so he could make one of his own... He messed up the first few times he tried, though. Yuki: Rabbits are white, so it always looked like a squid when he messed up... The ears, hands, and legs all looked like tentacles. Ahaha. Hasaki: Back then... I really wanted that doll... Tomosane: I can't imagine Mamiya Takuji doing that now. Yuki: Mamiya Takuji-kun, huh... Yuki: Well, nothing we can do about it now. This body's original soul believes he hurt Hasaki-chan and his mother, Kotomi-san, because he was too competent. Tomosane: His mother? She's the cause of this whole mess, isn't she? Yuki: Yeah... I guess you could say Kotomi-san is the original cause... Yuki: But... there was an incident that happened because he was too competent. Tomosane: Hmm... I can hardly believe that Mamiya Takuji was good at anything. Hasaki: Takuji Nii-san was... good at everything. Not just studying, but reading, art, and music too.. * But..."* Tomosane: But? Yuki: Well, you know... The truth is that he destroyed everything because he was too competent. You can't say Kotomi-san was the only one at fault. Yuki: The original incident didn't happen because of any single person. Yuki: It happened because of a combination of factors. Tomosane: Yuki... The original incident... In the end, it all comes down to that. The reason his mother became an empty shell that only stares into space. The reason the competent Mamiya Takuji became a weak, rebellious person. And the reason Mamiya Takuji made separate personalities like me and Yuki within himself. Apparently there was one incident that caused it all... The reason I say 'apparently'... Well, this is kind of pathetic, but... * In truth, I don't know very much about it.* Of course, Hasaki knows everything, but I can't really ask her about it. That incident is the reason for everything. It gave birth to this insane situation... and it's a memory that pains Hasaki to remember. Not just Mamiya and his mother, but... after the incident, Hasaki too was mentally scarred for a long time. No... Not just mentally, but physically scarred as well. After the incident, Hasaki was hospitalized for a long time. She spent several months in intensive care, and after that she was in a psychiatric hospital. It left her with large scars. After such a huge incident, do I really have the right to know everything that happened? The reality is that I was born long after it happened. It has nothing to do with me. Hasaki's darkest memories... Do I have the right to know about those? I'm just someone who will disappear... Like a person passing by on the street. Does the personality named Yuuki Tomosane... have the right to know? Yuki acts like she knows something about it, but I have no idea how much she actually knows. I'm sure Yuki's personality was only born after the incident as well... So neither of us know the truth... All I know is that there was a single incident that caused the situation we have today. After that incident, Mamiya Kotomi lost her mind, and Mamiya Takuji's mental state was severely altered... creating us. Hasaki bore great scars. In order to protect Hasaki... And in order to create a new Mamiya Takuji... I exist. Yuki: Why do you look so serious? Were you thinking about something? Tomosane: Yeah, I guess so... A lot of things, actually. Yuki: Haa... Like I said, you should be grateful to your past self. The reason you're so strong in fights is because of the skills your body originally had. Tomosane: I've continued my training ever since then... It's not because of Mamiya Takuji's hard work. Yuki: Yeah, I guess you have... That was back when he was just a brat. Yuki: I know you've been training with that faggot Master for a long time now... It's almost entirely thanks to you that I'm so strong. Tomosane: Of course it is... Mamiya didn't create everything. Yuki: Hahahaha... You really hate Mamiya Takuji, don't you, Tomosane? Tomosane: If he hadn't created me like that, I wouldn't want to kill him. I'm a blade he created to kill himself... Yuki: I'm just a blade he created... Jeez, that's dark. Aren't you getting a bit carried away there, Tomosane? Tomosane: ...You're really annoying... Yuki: Come on, it's painful just looking at you when you're trying to pretend to be all cool and dark. Tomosane: I'm not pretending to be cool! Yuki: It wouldn't hurt... if once in a while you were thankful for the body you have. Thanks to him, you can fix up the bunny like this. Tomosane: Hm... And he was the one who created this whole bothersome situation. Yuki: That's true, but... I'm not the kind of person that's supposed to be in this world. Tomosane: Apparently if we go to a hospital, they can erase us one by one... They call those people counselors... Yuki: What's up with that? Sounds scary! Tomosane: There's a treatment for dissociative identity disorder that erases the personalities... Tomosane: That's how unnecessary our existence in this world is. Yuki: I can't deny that. Hasaki: You're wrong. Yuki: Huh? Tomosane: What? Hasaki: Thanks to Nii-san creating the two of you... we were able to meet... Hasaki: If Takuji Nii-san hadn't accepted your existence, I would be truly alone. Hasaki: So when you say it's bothersome and stuff... that's kind of... Tomosane: Hey, whoa... D-Don't cry... Yuki: Whoa... Don't make your sister cry. Tomosane: You agreed with me! You said we were just a bother! Yuki: Don't look at me... Tomosane: B-But still... I can't forgive Mamiya Takuji for not giving up on his mother... Yuki: Well, maybe so, but he's a kind person at heart. After all, he was originally going to be the savior and protect the world. Hasaki: U-Um, do you have to talk about this... Tomosane: Hasaki... Hasaki: Yeah, I don't mind it anymore.. * You shouldn't talk bad about people..."* Tomosane: You're the primary victim here. Yuki: Haa... That just means her brother isn't the only one who's kind. Maybe it runs in the family. Tomosane: In the Mamiya family, huh... Kind to a fault, perhaps. Hasaki: Ahahahaha, Dad really was gentle... I guess. Yuki: Oh, I finished this while we were talking. Hasaki: Th-Thank you! Yuki: Ah... I feel like I'm gonna disappear. Hasaki: Disappear? Tomosane: Yuki's personality is going to disappear... Not like I really care, but I'm surprised you can feel it coming on. Yuki: So you still can't feel it? You'll probably get better at it later. Tomosane: How am I supposed to get better... Tomosane: Yuki... Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... Yuki-san? Tomosane: Ah, she's gone... Hasaki: ... Tomosane: Well it's not like she's gone forever... Don't make that face. Hasaki: B-But some day... Tomosane: Stop looking so sad... Hasaki. Hasaki: Yeah... Sorry. I ended up going to class. Apparently attending class was my job this time. If you ask me, one of the other two should be going to class and doing other boring stuff like that. I especially don't want to waste my time going to class since I'm fated to disappear anyway. But at least there aren't any afternoon classes on Saturday, so it's not all bad. The meal Hasaki made me for lunch was gone too. Apparently someone ate it that morning (either Mamiya Takuji or Yuki), since both the lunchboxes were empty. Tomosane: Hmm... Hasaki's lunchboxes are way too small. Tomosane: It's still first period... I looked at the clock. It was still pretty early. I'm gonna be hungry before dinnertime... And someone ate my dinner too... Tomosane: I'm pretty sure Hasaki said she would be home late today. It's strange that Master would only call for Hasaki to work at Hakushuu. Usually he calls me or Yuki when he needs someone to wash dishes or clean the shop. Well... either way, Hasaki will be late. Tomosane: ...It's been a while since I've been able to do that. I hadn't done it in a while, so I had a lot of energy built up. This was the first chance I'd had in a while... Tomosane: ... Tomosane: ...That voice. When I left the school building, I heard them talking. In the rear courtyard... I could only hear a few words, like "finish it" and "let's go," but I could tell right away what they were doing. Tomosane: Haa... I want to just ignore them and go home, but... I hopped over the fence. Tomosane: Yo... Numada: Huh? Nishimura: No way... Shiroyama: M-Mamiya... kun. My perceptions aren't altered like Takuji and Yuki's are. I heard their words exactly as they said them. "Takuji," not "Yuuki" or "Tomosane." Which just means that my perceptions don't need to keep secrets from me. Well, I'm glad I don't have to deal with that crap. Nishimura: Wh-What's up? He's shitting bricks... That can only mean one thing. Bingo... They were hiding and whispering about something... These guys are a pain. Tomosane: Nah, nothing in particular. Do I need to have something in particular to talk about? If you'd like, I could make a problem for you right now. Numada: Oh, no. Tomosane: Just now, you guys were talking about going somewhere, weren't you? Nishimura: Oh, uh, not at all. Nishimura: G-Guh... Shiroyama: Ah! Numada: Eek! Tomosane: And I heard you were going to 'finish' something... When I punched Nishimura, the other two winced in fear. They bullied Mamiya Takuji so much, but they rolled over like dogs once I beat them up a few times. They're weak... That's the only way to describe them. Tomosane: So? What were you talking about? Numada: S-Sorry! Uh, we were, uh, looking for you, Mamiya-kun. Tomosane: Hmm. Looking for me, huh? Numada: Uh, well. We got some good stuff... We thought maybe you'd wanna get in on it too. Tomosane: Good stuff? Numada: Yeah, yeah, good ice. Tomosane: I see... Some good ice, huh? Numada: It was really expensive. The crystals are pure white. Tomosane: Pure white crystals... "Ice" is a euphemism for meth. They also call it "S," "Tina," or "glass." There are a lot of nicknames. I didn't care to know, but I learned a lot of dumb shit like that hanging out with these guys. They call it a white powder, but... most of it doesn't really look like white powder. At least, I've never seen any like that. Apparently it's colorless and transparent if the purity is high, but the kind of stuff that gets sold in the city isn't white because of the impurities. The color changes depending on the impurities. It can even be yellow or pink... Most drugs go through quite a few different hands before they reach the individual sellers. The adulteration happens as it passes through all those different hands. And to dilute the water even more, the end sellers cut the drugs before they sell them. Apparently they add anything they have at hand that looks like white powder, even though they have no scientific knowledge about the drugs. Sugar, salt... sometimes even chalk is mixed in. Apparently it burns like crazy if you add sugar. I've heard stories of people whose meth exploded when they lit up, getting in their eyes and everything... That happens when their meth is cut with salt. And sometimes even poison is mixed in. If it's cut with a lethal poison, they call it a Terror Hit. And if the adulterant just gives you some side effects, they call it a bad trip. But it's apparently not very common for meth to be cut with actual poison. Meth is one of the tools of the trade for a lot of people in the business, so anyone who sells meth cut with anything poisonous might be "disciplined" to control the quality of the market. Because of that "discipline," the quality is fairly high. I don't know if that's a good thing or a bad thing. The only reason I learned all this stuff is because I hang out with these guys. Tomosane: Oh really... Good ice, huh? Numada: Y-Yeah. Tomosane: ...Give it all to me. Numada: What? Tomosane: You were planning on doing it without me, weren't you? I told you to give me all of it. Didn't you hear me? Numada: B-But! Numada: Haa... Shiroyama: H-Hey... Tomosane: Hm? What? Shiroyama... Shiroyama: ... Shiroyama: Oh, uh... Nothing. The flame of resistance flared up in Shiroyama's eyes for a moment... But once he met my eyes that flame disappeared. He had the most backbone of all these losers, but now look at him. Tomosane: What is it, Shiroyama? If you have something to say, look me in the eyes and say it. Shiroyama: I-I didn't say anything... Well, after I hurt him that bad... I don't blame him. The first time I met him, I beat him bloody... and I've nearly killed him on a few other occasions too. Because he tried to get revenge on me several times. Though he failed every time... He tried to jump me in a back alley once too. Even an amateur doesn't give many opportunities to get ambushed, though. People are instinctively wary of walking through dark and deserted places. Unless they were drunk, anyone would notice footsteps behind them in the dark. And I'm more careful about listen for footsteps behind me than most people. If the footsteps slow down when I do, I can tell... That alone is enough to stop them from ambushing me. Maybe it would be different if they could fly or something... A stun gun or something wouldn't matter, though. I've seen Shiroyama break someone's leg without hesitation before. And there was one time when he got a bunch of people together and surrounded me late at night. But there were less than ten people. They had knives and stun guns. It was a pretty good plan on his part. Even a dumbass could think of something like that, though. Of course, I ran away at full speed... It would be retarded to fight them head on. I was confident in my running speed. It's not my arms but my legs that make me strong in battle. They slowly split up... They were too focused on chasing me so they didn't even notice that they weren't moving together. I turned and butchered the closest man. I hit him with my entire body weight, knocking him out in a single blow. I picked up his knife and threw it at the second guy. He probably didn't expect me to throw it. He fell on his ass right there. I put my boot in his face, since he'd offered so nicely. I felt the unique sensation of teeth breaking under my heel. I got a metal pipe from him. In reality, a metal pipe is a far better weapon than a knife or a stun gun. The length is more important than the lethality of the weapon. I used my new weapon to take out my pursuers one by one. In the end, it was four versus one... I wouldn't lose to four amateurs even without a weapon. The end result was a one-sided beatdown that was even more brutal than usual. I stabbed a knife through Shiroyama's right hand to teach him a lesson. I stabbed Numada right in the ass as he tried to run. That was the last time Shiroyama tried to resist... After that, he devolved into a man who only fears me. Well, part of that is because I hurt him so badly... but that was his own fault. He did something disgusting to my body, even if was Mamiya Takuji's personality at the time... I couldn't hurt him enough to pay him back for that. Tomosane: Is this everything? Numada: Y-Yes... He gave me one packet of the stuff. It didn't look like enough for them all. I made them empty their pockets and searched their stuff, but I couldn't find anything. Tomosane: Hmm... Numada: So... are you done? Tomosane: ...Yeah. Numada turned to run. Tomosane: Huh?! Tomosane: Hey! Numada! Numada: Huh? Tomosane: Take off... your shoes. Numada: Huh? Tomosane: Do it already! I made him take off his shoes right there. He was walking funny. Like he was protecting something. I checked out his shoes, but there was nothing in them. Numada: Th-There's nothing there, right? Tomosane: ... I rolled up the cuffs on his pants. Numada: Ah... There was an unusual bulge in one of his socks. Tomosane: ...What is this? I punched him, but not hard enough to hurt my hand. I got three more packets from Numada's socks. Three packets of white powder... Naturally, they were more packets of drugs. Tomosane: You have quite a lot of this stuff, huh? Numada: Ahahaha... We really splurged this time. Numada laughed weakly. The blood poured out of his nose. Splurged, huh? For this powder... Tomosane: Well then, I'll be confiscating this. Numada: Huh? Wh-What? Numada tried to say something, but I was already leaving. At the current prices, each of these 0.3g packets would sell to the end consumer for over 10,000 yen each... Put together, there was easily over 30,000 yen worth. I couldn't complain about that. I flushed the toilet in the smelly bathroom stall. The packets all went down the toilet along with the water. It was hard to flush the unopened packets since they had air in them. I finally got them to flush along with some toilet paper. Tomosane: Haa... These public restrooms always smell like shit. I disposed of the drugs I took from Numada and Shiroyama in a nearby restroom. It was only natural. I wouldn't want to get stopped by the police while I had that stuff in my pockets. I always get rid of any drugs I confiscate right away. I'm only taking it from them to cause them pain... not to use it myself. I never planned to use any of the drugs myself. I can tell there's already something wrong with Mamiya Takuji's brain. I don't even want to imagine what would happen if I started doing drugs too. I used to take them home and throw them away in the garbage at my house, but lately I've been getting rid of them as soon as I can. Anyway, I'm bullying them as much as I can. I'm taking my revenge on them before I disappear. Tomosane: ...Hm? Did I... imagine that? ... Oh well... I should get going... ... I knew it... He's not an amateur... I felt a bit uneasy... and I was sure of it by the time I went into the station in Suginomiya. Tomosane: ...I let my guard down because there are so many people in Suginomiya. This is probably because I've been targeted by Shiroyama and his thugs so many times. I can always tell when someone's watching me... It's just a matter of practice. I dashed into a side road, like I was running away... Then I turned and stopped just around the corner. And waited... "Ah..." A man quickly followed me around the corner. It was a street just off the main road, and no one else was around. Because of that it ended up being just the two of us staring at each other in an alley. My pursuer froze for a moment and then looked away. Which means he's not a cop... Though I suppose a cop wouldn't trail me like this. A cop would've stopped me when I went in the restroom, or right after I came out. "..." My pursuer tried to walk away with a calm gait that was obviously feigned. But... Tomosane: Hey... do you think I'm just gonna let you walk away? "Huh? Um, what do you mean?" Tomosane: Haa... "E-Eek! A kn-knife?" Tomosane: Bingo... "Ah..." I cut open the bottom of his bag, and a camera fell to the ground. Tomosane: What's this big camera for? Not like you can go birdwatching here in the city... "Oh, no... I'm a paparazzo. I just got back from my favorite idol's concert..." Tomosane: So what do you do with those ugly sunglasses? Go peeping through the window? "Uh..." It was hard to see through his long hair, but his sunglasses had unusually thick frames. Sunglasses with a built-in camera... The kind detectives and the like use... Tomosane: What are you, a detective? Who hired you? "Hahahaha... Um." "Huh?!" "Guh!" Tomosane: You think I'm gonna let you run? I locked his arms behind his back and pushed him to the ground. I could break both his arms if I put my body weight on him and bent his arms just a few more inches. "O-Ow, ow ow ow!!" Tomosane: Who are you... Why are you following me? "S-Sorry! I'm a photographer... I do landscape pictur― ah, ow, ow, ow, oww!!" Tomosane: You weren't looking at the scenery... You were following me. "A-Ahahaha..." I looked through the rest of his belongings. Tomosane: ... I found a notebook. I thought he was a detective or something at first, but I knew he wasn't when I saw that notebook. Tomosane: Are you a reporter? For a newspaper? No, this employment card says it's a magazine... Your name is Kimura Nobukatsu, is it? Kimura: A-Ahahaha... Tomosane: So what were you looking for, Kimura-san? Kimura: Oh, uh... I was writing about today's youth culture... Tomosane: You mean you were investigating drug addiction, right? Kimura: Uh, um... Tomosane: Bullseye, huh... Kimura: Ah, ahahaha... Umm... Tomosane: I'll be confiscating this camera. Kimura: N-No way... H-How about you just delete the pictures? Tomosane: I'm sure you can restore them. Kimura: A-All right! Then just take the memory card! Tomosane: Hmm... Well, okay... I let go of his arms... Kimura: Haa... I knew you were strong from when I scoped you out, but that's amazing. You must have experience with martial arts. Tomosane: Oh, you want to interview me now that you lost your pictures? Kimura: Hahahaha, don't say that. After investigating you, I have to say I'm incredibly interested in you personally. Tomosane: Are you trying to butter me up? Don't you think something like that is just gonna tick me off? Kimura: W-Wait a second. Sorry, sorry. Kimura: I was serious. Your actions are really mysterious... Tomosane: Do you have a death wish? Kimura: W-Wait! At least let me say this. Tomosane: Say what? Kimura: Why did you throw away the drugs you took from them? Tomosane: Huh?! Tomosane: Y-You little bastard. How do you know that? Kimura: Hey, no, wait, don't get mad... It doesn't hurt you, though, does it? Tomosane: Huh? Kimura: You haven't done any of the drugs. Kimura: There wasn't a single empty packet. All of them still had the drugs in them, and you just threw them away... Tomosane: Exactly how long have you been following me? Kimura: Um, I just happened to see it. Tomosane: You just happened to see it while you were going through my garbage? Kimura: And you tried flushing them down the toilet, but they didn't all flush. Those air-filled packets don't flush very well since they float. Tomosane: You searched my toilet? Kimura: Yeah, you go to the toilet every time you get any drugs... At first, I thought you were doing the drugs in there, but then I discovered a packet that didn't flush. Kimura: Since then, I've been using a plunger to investigate what you flushed. Kimura: I recovered quite a lot of them. Tomosane: Really now... Kimura: Yeah, that's why I was curious. I wanted to know why you would do that after going through all that trouble to get those expensive drugs. Tomosane: All right... I understand. Kimura: You understand? Tomosane: Yeah, it looks like you know too much... Kimura: Wh-What? Wait... did I say too much? Tomosane: Yeah, way too much... Kimura: U-Um, your face is really scary... You're not thinking of killing me, are you? Tomosane: Yeah, that's the plan. Kimura: Eek! Kimura: Aaah! My SLR! Tomosane: Also, this thing looks ridiculous. Kimura: Ah... Kimura: Not my camera sunglasses! Kimura: Ah... Tomosane: Don't come near me ever again. Kimura: U-Ugh... You show no mercy... Tomosane: If I ever see you again, you're dead. Kimura: Okay... Understood. Kimura's wristwatch flashed bright like a flashlight. Tomosane: Ah! The light was seared into my retinas. Tomosane: Tch... He still had another camera, huh... He looked like a fool, but I'm sure there's a reason why he was investigating me. Tomosane: Kimura Nobukatsu, huh? I should be careful from now on. He's dangerous... If I see Yuki, I should warn her too. Tomosane: And Mamiya... Nah, forget about him... Mamiya is in the most danger, but I can't just go and warn him about every little thing. Tomosane: Either way, from now on I should only confiscate money from those guys, not drugs. Taking their drugs away causes more psychological damage since it's so much harder for them to get, but I don't have much of a choice anymore. Tomosane: Personally, I don't give a shit if I get caught, but I don't want to drag Yuki down with me. If Yuki got caught, Hasaki would be upset. And that's the last thing I want to happen. Tomosane: Puhaa... I drank a can of tea I had in the fridge to calm myself down. The cold tea pricked at the back of my throat and made my head hurt. But to me, even that pain felt good... Tomosane: Haa... That helped cool my head a bit... Tomosane: I haven't had one of these in a while. I opened the top on a cup of ramen. A lot of crap happened, so it took longer than I expected to get home. The sun was already setting... It wasn't dinner time yet, but I made myself some ramen anyway. It was salty. Well, the taste doesn't really matter. Tomosane: Oh, it's boiling... I came back into the kitchen and poured the kettle of boiling water into my ramen. I looked at the clock. It was already after five... Hasaki still wouldn't be home for a while. She said she would be working at Hakushuu late tonight. Her job there usually ends around ten o'clock. If I include the time she'll spend walking home, it'll be more than 5 hours until she gets home. Tomosane: ...Heh. A little giggle found its way out of my mouth. No one will be in this house for quite a while... I'm alone in this house... Tomosane: ...It's been a while. Maybe I can do that again... Hasaki won't be home for... Tomosane: I can... I put in the CD I bought. My heart rate increased... Tomosane: ...Heh. This isn't like me. Tomosane: ... The video game started up. I can play video games. When I'm alone, I can play games without worrying. Tomosane: Heh... Hehehe! Tomosane: I haven't heard this sound in a long time... I'm not an egghead like Yuki, who always comes home and immediately sits down to a book. I only read books to kill time when I have nothing else to do. Games are way better than books! If I could, I'd like to play handheld games when I'm at school. I've actually tried bringing handheld games to school before. But whenever I went to play them... The batteries were dead. Tomosane: That's probably... No, that's definitely because Mamiya found the games and played them until the battery died. Tomosane: I did it dozens of times too, but I never got to play any of the games... God damn it! That bastard... Every time I charge it up so that I can play games, he always plays them for hours on end before I even get a chance to try. At this point, I'm pretty sure he's doing that on purpose to bug me. Whenever I finish charging the handheld and excitedly put it into my bag, my consciousness blacks out... Tomosane: And then before I know it, the batteries are dead! Tomosane: Every time I feel that desperation, it makes me want to kill that bastard... I must be destined to hate every single thing about Mamiya Takuji. For the record, Mamiya Takuji actually owns a lot of games, but most of them aren't the kind of stuff I play. Most of them are so-called galge, which I'm really not interested in. Though I guess he does have a few games that I do like. I just don't really feel like playing any of them, though. I mean, why would I? He always pirates his games online instead of buying them. I can't stand that... It bothers me so much I want to kill him for it. Not that I'm someone who should be giving a lecture on morals... I just instinctively hate him. Tomosane: Apparently I find every single thing he does irritating... He's such a pain in the ass. It seems like Yuki doesn't hate Mamiya, but I really don't understand why. Someone like him might as well just die. There aren't very many things in this world I hate as much as him. There's not a single good thing about him. Either way, I can't play games at school. And I can't play games in the house either... Especially not console games that use the TV. Tomosane: Hasaki will be at Hakushuukyou all night. She said her shift would last until late tonight... Which means I can play games today without worrying about anything. If Hasaki ever sees me in the living room, she always shows interest in what I'm doing. She always comes and bothers me. Which is why I can't play games when she's around. Tomosane: Whatever... Let's have some fun tonight. It sure has been a while... Hasaki: I'm home. Tomosane: ... Tomosane: Why? Hasaki: Oh, Tomo Nii-san, there you are. I thought you weren't around because you didn't respond. Tomosane: ... Why... Why is she home so early? Didn't she say she was working late? I can't believe she came home the second I finally turned the game on... Hasaki: Is that a game? Tomosane: Y-Yeah... Hasaki: That's rare... Tomosane: Hasaki... weren't you supposed to be working late? Hasaki: Oh, uh... Well, it was a special job, so it didn't take long. We finished up sooner than I expected. A special job? Not like it matters to me, I guess... Hasaki: And why are you eating that? Hasaki grumpily sat behind me. Hasaki: What about the lunch I packed? Tomosane: Oh, I ate it, but I was still hungry afterward. Hasaki: But I bought ingredients and hurried home just so I could make you dinner... Tomosane: You told me you wouldn't be home until later. Hasaki: I said I might not be home until later. I never said I definitely wouldn't... Isn't it awfully early to be eating cup ramen? Tomosane: I just got hungry is all... Hasaki: Hmm... Really? Ah... what a pain... I started talking less and focused on the game instead of Hasaki. Hasaki: So... what kind of game is it? How long is she planning on sticking around? The conversation is over. Shouldn't she go back to her room or something? I suppose I could stop playing... No, then she would probably just complain. Damn it... I always make sure not to play video games around her because I don't want to get involved with her... Why is she going out of her way to sit here with me? ...Hmph. ... What should I do now? ... I'm sure Hasaki will be pissed if I tell her to get out. Hasaki never listens to any direct orders I give her. If anything, giving her orders has the opposite effect. What would Yuki do in a situation like this? Hmm... Yuki would probably just ask Hasaki to play with her. The other one... The next person to come to mind was the person I hated most. Mamiya Takuji... He always does things to piss people off even if he doesn't intend to. He would do something that Hasaki didn't like, or maybe he would just leave the room. In this situation, does that mean... that I should learn from Mamiya Takuji's example? That's it... The strongest gust of wind will fail to take off a person's coat, but the warmth of a sunny day will accomplish it easily. In other words, I have to make her want to leave the room. So I should say something to gross her out... That could work. ... What would make Hasaki upset? Well, most women don't like it when you talk about sexual stuff... Some kind of sexual harassment involving the game, perhaps. Which leaves me with only one answer. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san, are you ignoring me? What game are you playing? Tomosane: Oh, this is an eroge. Hasaki: Hm, an eroge... Wait, what?! Tomosane: What are you so surprised for? This is an eroge. Hasaki: Uh, wh-what do you mean, an eroge? Um... Tomosane: That's right. It's exactly what you're thinking. Hasaki: U-Um, the eroge you're playing... What's it about? Tomosane: Oh... There's a mental patient who's deluded himself into believing he's a ninja keeping watch over his little sister, and he rapes the schizophrenic spy girl who shares the same room in the sanitorium with him. It's a game about the dream the spy girl sees while she's getting raped... I just made it up on the spot, so it probably sounded like nonsense... But it doesn't really matter what it's about. Hasaki: O-Oh, really... Wow. That's way too complicated for me... It sounds interesting, though. Hasaki: Wh-What's this scene about? I thought she would leave right away, but oddly enough, she stayed put. What's her deal... Are kids these days just used to the oversaturation of sex in the media? I thought Hasaki would be too embarrassed to talk about this kind of stuff... How annoying. Well, I'll just make something up. Tomosane: The spy girl's pet bird, Red Baron, is about to drop a bomb on the enemy's secret base. Hasaki: O-Oh wow... S-So that's what eroge are like... I just ignored Hasaki and focused on the action. Side-scrolling shooters usually have enemies scroll from right to left, but this one's different because they go left to right. Also, it's not an eroge. Though that should be really obvious. Hasaki: Th-The art is really cute... Well it's a game about birds flying planes... Of course it has cute art. I just told her it was eroge to make her go away... Why is she still here? Hasaki: T-Tomo Nii-san, um, I-I didn't know you played games like this. Tomosane: Yeah, I do. Hasaki: U-Um, so did I miss the scene... about the guy who thinks he's a ninja spying on his little sister? Tomosane: Huh? Hasaki: Oh, uh, I just can't imagine that happening based on what's on screen, so... I thought I'd ask. Of course you can't imagine it... I was lying when I said this shmup was an eroge. Tomosane: You can't imagine it, huh... I can't really imagine it, either. An eroge, huh? I haven't ever played one, so I wouldn't know. I just said that part about his little sister to mess with Hasaki, but... A little sister? Why would I say that? Even perverts wouldn't get turned on by their own sister... I mean, come on, it's your sister. But wait... I do remember that Mamiya Takuji had a couple games with 'sister' in the title... A game about locking up your sister... I think that was called 'Siskan,' and another one was called 'Sis Sky.' There were a lot of them. Does that mean... there's a demand for games like that? Which means... there really are perverts who get turned on by their little sisters... Tomosane: What a sad world we live in. Hasaki: Huh? Wh-What do you mean? Tomosane: Oh, uh, nothing. Not like I care, but why is she still here? Hasaki: Do you play games like this one a lot? Why would I play a lot of eroge?! I wanted to snap back at her, but... Tomosane: Yeah, I hide them from you, but I play eroge every day. ... I just said something... incredibly shameful. Don't worry about it... This is just to put some space between me and Hasaki. I need to keep a certain distance between us. I'm going to disappear eventually. If I become important to her, it'll only hurt her more when I disappear. So I have to be hated... I have to be loathed by everyone I meet. Even Hasaki has to hate me. If Yuki is getting cut off from the world, then that means it won't be long before I disappear. Hasaki has to forget me... and live on in a world without me. She doesn't need any good memories of me to do that. Yuuki Tomosane has to be a terrible person so that she doesn't grieve me when I'm gone... Hasaki: E-Every day?! Tomosane: Yeah, every single day... I like to play mindbreak games. Hasaki: Mindbreak? She was completely oblivious. Hasaki probably doesn't know what I'm talking about... She probably just thinks it's like mind control or something. Tomosane: I like games where you can train your little sister... Hasaki: Train? She was still oblivious. That's right... People in normal society use the word 'train' when they're talking about animals or sports... Hasaki: You mean, like, teaching her how to do something? I guess you could say that... No, that's not it. Tomosane: No, that's not what I mean... I told you, this is an eroge! Hasaki: Eroge... Hasaki: Wait, what does the 'ge' mean? Tomosane: It's short for game. Hasaki: Oh, okay... That makes sense. What did you think the 'ge' stood for before? Hasaki: h, uh, I should've been able to figure that out.. * So what do you do to your little sister in that game?"* Hasaki was definitely wavering. This is my chance... I just have to keep saying things that will creep her out. Tomosane: ... Grr... I'd like to, but... this is kind of hard. I don't really know much about eroge either. I guess there's sex, since it has 'ero' in the abbreviation, but I don't really know what that has to do with training. Hasaki: Um, Tomo Nii-san? Tomosane: It's ero, so they do erotic stuff... Hasaki: You mean... they... have sex? Tomosane: That's right. They do all sorts of perverted stuff! Hasaki: P-Perverted? Tomosane: Yeah, perverted. Perverted stuff means sex in this case... Hasaki: R-Really? Good job, Hasaki... Wait, why is Hasaki leading the conversation? Hasaki: ... Hasaki's downturned face was bright red. Okay, she's embarrassed, but why isn't she leaving? I can't stand this awkwardness for much longer. Tomosane: The sex scene is coming up... Hasaki: Huh?! Tomosane: The sex scene is coming up, so go away. Hasaki: U-Um, y-you mean... Tomosane: I hope I don't need to explain that too... Hasaki: Why don't you go and do that in your room?! Tomosane: There's no console in my room. Hasaki: O-Okay, but... Tomosane: So get out... Hasaki: U-U-Um... Tomosane: What? Hasaki: Huh? Um, you said there was a sex scene soon, right? Tomosane: Yeah, that's right... Hasaki: If you don't mind... I might wanna watch it... Tomosane: ... Tomosane: Huh?! Hasaki: Ah, um, well, I've never seen a game like that before... If you like those games, then I want to see it too. Hasaki: Uh, not in a weird way. Y-You don't really talk about yourself, so I always wonder what you're interested in... Hasaki: So I wish I could understand you better, Tomo Nii-san... And this is the first time I've seen you so focused on something... What's... happening? It's not going like I expected it to... If everything had gone as planned, by now Hasaki would have yelled, "Tomosane-san, you perv! I hate you!" Or maybe she would've looked shocked and said, "Uh, I'll leave you to your games..." Why is she acting like this? Hasaki: U-Um, Tomo Nii-san... why aren't you saying anything? U-Uh... Haa... I turned around and looked at Hasaki. Hasaki: Wha―! Why is she blushing? And why are there also tears in her eyes? If she hates it that much, she should just leave. Tomosane: You know, Hasaki... Hasaki: Y-Y-Yes? Tomosane: Doesn't it feel like you're missing something here? Hasaki: Huh? Wh-What? I'm missing something? Of course you are... What on earth do you think I've been talking about? Everything's getting complicated now... Tomosane: I told you to leave because there's a sex scene coming up. There's something very important I have to do. Hasaki: Something important? Tomosane: ...Grr. Damn it... She's totally oblivious. Hasaki: Th-That's okay. No matter what happens... Yeah. No matter what? What's her problem? She's trying to act casual even while her cheeks are burning red. Tomosane: Hey, Hasaki... Hasaki: Th-This is the living room, so I can be here if I want. Tomosane: I can't show a little kid something like that... Hasaki: I-I'm not a little kid! I'm an adult! Tomosane: What definition of adult are you using? Hasaki: Who cares about the definition?! I hate how you always treat me like a kid. Tomosane: If you don't like it, then go away... There's no reason for you to stay here. Hasaki: That's for me to decide... Don't tell me what to do. A-Anyway, just keep going. I don't mind, really... Haa... Now she's just being stubborn. I guess I can't keep up the act any longer. Seems like she's gonna stay no matter what. Hasaki: B-But... I'm surprised there are games with sex scenes on consoles. Tomosane: There aren't. Hasaki: Huh? Tomosane: This is a television, and I'm playing on a game console... Eroge are only on the PC. Tomosane: There's no way they could sell eroge for a console... Hasaki: What?! Tomosane: I just said all that stuff about porn because you were annoying me. Hasaki: ... Hasaki: There you go again... Hasaki: Fine! I guess you really hate being around me, huh? Tomosane: Pretty much. Hasaki: ... Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san, you JEEERRKKK! Hasaki pulled her hand back as far as she could... And then brought it down instantly. Tomosane: Aaaaaahh!! Tomosane: Dammit! Why did you hit the power button?! Hasaki: Jerk! Tomosane: What the hell?! I can't save in a shmup, you know?! I expected her to slap me or something... I never thought she would hit the power button. What a bummer...
Familiar music... but with a slightly different style than my own. The same song can sound completely different depending on who's playing it... Well, it might sound the same to everyone else. Yuki... The usual place... The usual piano... But the person playing was Yuki. When I woke up, Yuki was sitting right next to me. Yuki played with her eyes closed, but she had a smirk on her face, like she knew I was there. I didn't think I was working today, though. Why is Yuki playing the piano here? I looked around the room. The same faggots as usual were here. I always have to wonder... It's not like this is a gay bar or anything. It's just supposed to be a normal bar. These guys probably all come here because Master has no morals. ...Huh? ... That's... Takashima Zakuro... Why's she here? Yuki: I'm here on a date. With her. Yuki spoke only to me, with her eyes still closed. Naturally, her mouth didn't actually move. Tomosane: What do you mean, a date? Yuki: Yeah, it was just a coincidence. I saw her on the train. Tomosane: On the train, huh... Tomosane: What were you thinking? You're both girls, aren't you? Yuki: But I look like a guy, don't I? Tomosane: Still... Yuki: You're in a bad mood, huh? What, are you jealous? Tomosane: Why would I be jealous of you? Yuki smiled and played the piano. There was a certain lilt in the music that wasn't there before. To the rest of them, it must have looked like she was just playing silently, but in reality she always talks a lot while she's playing. Yuki: I haven't played this piano in quite a while. Tomosane: You asked them to tune it, right? How is it? Yuki: It feels really good. But it's been more than a month since I asked Master to get it tuned. Tomosane: They only finished tuning it earlier this week... Yuki: That's a bit shady, but at least it still sounds good now since he only got it done last week. Tomosane: Yeah... Pretty good timing there. Yuki: ...Well, I wouldn't say that. The performance ended. Apparently Takashima Zakuro was really impressed by Yuki's playing... Listening to her praise, I could tell that the girl wasn't the kind of person I would get along with. She wouldn't really like me... though she probably wouldn't come near if I was the personality in control. I watched Yuki and Takashima talk as I thought about that. Yuki got along with Takashima really well. Really, Yuki gets along well with anyone. She's completely different from me and Mamiya Takuji. If I had the kind of social skills she does... I can't even imagine it. Yuki is really something. It's just such a pain in the ass talking to people... I don't want to get involved with people if I don't have to. I don't want to talk to them, and I don't even want to go anywhere near them. Especially not women. I can't stand people who can just cry at the drop of a hat, like it's a normal thing that people do all the time. I never know how I'm supposed to talk to them. Men are easier, since I can just hit them and then they stop bothering me. Women are just a pain in the ass... In other words, what really suits me is just being alone. Yuki: I hate people too, you know? Tomosane: ...Huh? I was only thinking that to myself, so even Yuki shouldn't have been able to hear it. I was just thinking to myself, and yet― Tomosane: ...How did you know what I was thinking? Yuki: I just had a feeling... but it sounds like I guessed right. Tomosane: Yeah... It was like you were replying to my inner thoughts. Yuki: Oh really... Lately, it feels like I've been able to hear your thoughts sometimes. Yuki: Though anyone watching would say that even this conversation is only in our thoughts. Tomosane: Yeah, no one else can hear us right now. We can talk privately, just between the two of us. Yuki: The brain is a mysterious organ. Tomosane: I wouldn't call it mysterious. I'd just call it a piece of shit. That's what I always say... Yuki: Anyway, like I said, you always say you hate people, but it's not like I enjoy their company either. Tomosane: You're not very convincing. Yuki: Why not? I like to be alone, too. I'm really good at being alone. Tomosane: How can you be good at being alone? Yuki: What? Did you imagine something perverted? Tomosane: Don't worry, I didn't think anything like that at all. Yuki: What's your problem? You can fantasize about me if you want. Tomosane: Why would I fantasize about you? That's ridiculous... Yuki: Then who do you fantasize about? Tomosane: I don't fantasize about anyone. Shut up. Yuki: Oh, you don't have a good imagination so you prefer to watch porn? You don't really have many porno mags, though.. * Oh! I get it! You only like 2D girls!"* Yuki: But you don't have any ero manga either... Maybe you have a stash of porn on the computer? Tomosane: You're getting on my nerves. Are you going to keep spouting nonsense until I pop your bubble? Yuki: But you do jerk off, don't you? Tomosane: I don't. Yuki: Liar. If a healthy boy didn't jerk off, the semen would start coming out in his sweat. Tomosane: No, it wouldn't... What the hell do you think a healthy boy is, anyway? Yuki: Good boys are made of 50% kindness and 50% semen. Tomosane: Why, you... You're insulting all the boys in the country, you know? Yuki: No, I'm complimenting them. I said 50% is made up of their innate kindness. Tomosane: And the other half is pure semen. Yuki: Isn't that about right? Tomosane: That's not right at all! It would be terrifying if that was true! Yuki: L-Like I said, boys are scary! Tomosane: That's dumb! Don't act scared about something stupid like that! Tomosane: Haa... All right, so if that's true, then there's semen coming out when you sweat, too. We do share the same body, you know? Yuki: No way! That's awful! I'll get pregnant with your child! Tomosane: No, wait... That's impossible for a lot of reasons. Yuki: But your semen is mixed in with my sweat, right? Tomosane: I'll kill you. Yuki: Oh, you wanna take a shot at me for old times' sake? No cheap shots! Tomosane: Whoa, what's your problem? Why are you trying to fight me? And besides, there's no semen in my sweat! Yuki: Yeah, right... Tomosane: Yeah, I am right! You can't even keep a straight face when you say that shit. Yuki: But you're not jerking off at all, right? Then there's gotta be semen in your sweat. By this point, it's probably pure semen. Tomosane: Why, you... All right, look here. This conversation is over. Drop it. Yuki: Then we can agree. You're sweating buckets of cum! Tomosane: Yeah, right! Yuki: You admitted it! Tomosane: No! I'm not admitting it, I just don't want to talk about it! Besides, even if there was semen in my sweat, how the hell would you get pregnant from it?! Yuki: Don't make me spell it out for you. I'm a sensitive girl, you know. Tomosane: Did your brain leak out of your ears? Yuki: Can't you be a bit more sensitive when you're talking to girls? You shouldn't tell a girl she has no brains. Tomosane: I don't even know where to start with that. You're the one who was saying semen over and over, so I don't know why you expect me to be sensitive! Yuki: But don't I look like an innocent girl? I'm so cute, you know. Tomosane: Not even a little. Yuki: Yes, I am. Are you stupid? Tomosane: It's kind of rude to disregard someone's opinion and then top it off by calling them stupid. Yuki: Okay, let's get back to our serious conversation. Do you not have any interest in women? Tomosane: This conversation wasn't serious for even one second... You're just making lewd jokes. Yuki: Oh come on, don't young guys like you get horny sometimes? Tomosane: I don't... Yuki: You have ED at your age?! Tomosane: That's not what I mean! Yuki: Then what did you mean? Tomosane: Haa... You know, Mamiya Takuji probably loves doing stuff like that. Yuki: Mamiya Takuji... does? Tomosane: That's right. That thing people do when they're alone... Yuki: O-Oh, okay... Mamiya Takuji, huh? Tomosane: Doesn't he do that several times a day? That's probably why I don't feel any lust. Yuki: Oh... So I don't have to worry about getting pregnant. Good to know. Tomosane: That was impossible to begin with. Yuki: It was?! Tomosane: Why do you sound so surprised? Tomosane: Okay, let's start from the beginning. You share the same body as the two of us. Yuki: Share the same body... That's kind of erotic. I might be getting a little wet. Tomosane: You're not. Yuki: Hmm. I think I understand. So you don't feel lust very often... Tomosane: Yeah, that's right. Yuki: So that's why you never got turned on by your cute older sister. Tomosane: Huh? Yuki: Neither me nor Hasaki... If you were a normal guy we could do some rape roleplay or something. Tomosane: What are you talking about? Zakuro: U-Um... Yuki: Huh? Yuki: Shit... I forgot about Takashima-san. Tomosane: You were on a date with her, right? Zakuro: S-Sorry... I must be boring you, huh? Yuki: Oh, n-not at all... S-Sorry, I was just having a mental meeting. Zakuro: A mental meeting? Yuki: Don't you do that? I was just talking to the different mes in my head. You know, like, what should we have for dinner and stuff like that. Zakuro: Oh, I understand. I do that too. Yuki: Ahahaha. Plenty of people have mental meetings. Zakuro: Yes. When I was going home earlier, I was thinking about this. Zakuro: Conductor Takashima! We've been running on empty since lunchtime! We will need to stop for refueling soon! McDonalds spotted at two o'clock! Pilot Takashima taking a 90 degree right turn in 200 meters! Zakuro: We've infiltrated the store! All right, Loader Takashima! Load coins into the cannon! Ready, aim... Cannoneer Takashima! Now's your chance! Fire 100 yen! Bang! Zakuro: You acquired one milkshake * Something like that, ahahahahaha!"* Yuki: Ahahahaha... L-Like that, huh? ... What on earth? And Yuki talks about me like we're having some kind of "mental meeting"? Jeez... Zakuro: So what was that meeting about? Yuki: Um... Tomosane: Boys are made of kindness and semen... wasn't it? Yuki: Like I can say that! Tomosane: But it's the truth. Yuki: ... Yuki: Um, I was just thinking, uh... there are two equal but opposite forces inside every man's heart. Zakuro: Equal but opposite forces? Yuki: That's right. Boys have two opposing forces within them. Zakuro: What are those? Yuki: The first is... lust. Zakuro: Lust? Yuki: Yeah. Lust for various things. The desire to make things your own. For instance, the girl they like. Zakuro: Oh... Uh... Yuki: Half of a man's heart is constantly awash with that lust. Zakuro: U-Um, y-you think so? Then... what's the other half? Yuki: The other half... is kindness. Zakuro: Kindness? Yuki: Yes. They're always careful that they don't hurt the person they love with their lust. Boys are made of just such a kindness. Yuki: How about that?! Tomosane: So what? Yuki: Wasn't that pretty good? I didn't tell a lie! I'm pretty quick on my feet! Tomosane: I don't know about that... Well, whatever. Look at her. Tomosane: She's bright red. Yuki: Oh, you're right. Tomosane: She got bright red when you said that. Yuki: Oh shit! She realized that was all sexual harassment?! What should I do, Tomosane? She saw right through me! Tomosane: No, I don't think she did... Yuki: Then why is she blushing? Tomosane: Haa... It's not like she actually thinks you meant to say that boys are made up of semen and kindness. Yuki: Huh? But the meaning is the same. Tomosane: Then maybe you were sexually harassing her. Yuki: Oh... I guess I was... Yuki: That's a good point. I guess I'll have to give my title as the wittiest guy around to you. Tomosane: I don't want it! And when did you get the title in the first place? Yuki: Way before you were born! Tomosane: Why, you... Now I'm sure your brain is leaking out your ears. Yuki kept up a conversation with both me and Takashima in that vein. She really is a talented girl. Master: All right... Time to close up shop. Tomosane: Haa... Why are you making me work until close? Yuki: Yeah, what's up with that? Master: J-Jeez, it's weird how you and Yuki are both there at the same time. Well, whatever. Hey, Hasaki-chan. Yuki: Huh? Hasaki-chan is here? Tomosane: ...I remember she was supposed to work today. I wonder why she didn't come out. Hasaki: I didn't want to... bother you. Yuki: N-No! That girl was with me, not Tomosane. Tomosane: Why are you trying to cover for me all of a sudden? Hasaki: Oh... I knew it was you, Yuki. That's not what I was talking about. Yuki: Oh, then why didn't you come talk with us? Hasaki: Well... It seems like Tomo Nii-san hates me. He doesn't want to be around me, I guess. Yuki: What? Master: You're bullying her again? Tomosane: Ah, no... Hasaki: He doesn't want his little sister in the house, so he plays eroge in the living room. Master: Whoa, what did you just say? Yuki: What the hell?! Didn't you just say you don't jerk off?! Hasaki: Huh?! Tomosane: Wh-Why the hell would you say that here?! Hasaki: U-Um, what do you mean by jerk off? Yuki: Oh, uh... It's a weightlifting term. They do it at the Olympics, you know, uh... The clean and jerk, I think? Master: That's impossible... Why is Tomo-chan saying he doesn't masturbate at his age? Hasaki: M-Masturbate?! Tomosane: W-Wait! Wait just a second! Hasaki is right there, you know! Hasaki: Oh, d-don't worry about me. I'm fine... Um, Yuki-san, i-i-is that true? She couldn't even talk straight. Yuki: You know, he has all these cute girls around him, like me, or even you Hasaki, and me too! But he told me he's not attracted to us at all. Tomosane: Why would I lie about that?! Hasaki: Oh... So you're not attracted to us... at all. Tomosane: Why are you getting upset about that?! Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san, I think you're too self-centered. Why would I get upset about that? The vein in her forehead was bulging. It was kind of obvious. Tomosane: E-Either way, you should be happy, since there won't be any misunderstandings. Hasaki: That's right. How wonderful. Not like there would be any misunderstandings about me anyway. Tomosane: Why are you angry?! Hasaki: You're so self-centered! Why would I get angry about that? Yuki: But you don't feel anything for me either? You don't like the big sister archetype or the little sister archetype? Master: Then maybe I'm his type? Tomosane: You don't even show up on my radar! Master: That's ridiculous. Why wouldn't I show up? Yuki: What's your problem? If you don't think sisters are cute and you don't think old men are cute, it's like you're saying you don't like anyone! Uh, I don't think anyone finds old men cute... Master: If you don't like them, you should at least like me. I'm made of pure, unadulterated cuteness! Tomosane: Don't go around telling normal people about your fucked up version of cute! Master: Is incest normal, then? Tomosane: Like I said, I'm not into that either! Hasaki: Then... what do you think is cute? Tomosane: H-Huh? What do I think is cute? Yuki: Yeah, I'd like to know too. Tomosane: I don't think anything is cute... What the hell is 'cute' anyway? I'm not Mamiya... Yuki: If you don't want to put it that way, then what do you like in a girl? You have to have a type, right? Tomosane: How would I know?! I've never thought about that! Master: Maybe Ecchan's your type? Hasaki: Who's Ecchan? Tomosane: Why are you glaring at me?! Yuki: Who... is that? Tomosane: Ecchan is a former officer in the self-defense force, and he's gay! His real name is Echizen Kousuke! Master: Oh, that pretty boy was a mercenary, not an officer. He had such a squeaky voice I couldn't even believe he was a gun for hire. Master: I'd go crazy for that cute little lover boy if I could just hear him say, 'I want to break open Tomosane's vault of gold.' Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san's vault of gold? Wh-What's that? Master: It might not actually be gold, but it's a vault that needs opening! Tomosane: Keep your hands off my gold, old man. Hasaki: What are you guys talking about? Tomosane: Forget it! Yuki: Then who is it?! Master: Oh, I know! It's Kazu-chan! Hasaki: Who's Kazu-chan...? Tomosane: Don't look at me like it's my fault! That guy's not as old, but he's still a faggot! His real name is Hyoudou Kazutaka. Master: But you seem like you'd get along well with a hardcore sadist like him, Tomo-chan, and he's really rich too... I heard him say that he had 10 billion in the bank. Tomosane: That was a lie. No one rich comes here. Master: Oh, I wouldn't go that far. There are some pretty famous people who come in here. One of the famous people that's involved with this industry is... Abe-san, you know? Tomosane: That guy's just a plain old faggot! Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san, there are a lot of rumors about you getting with men, aren't there? Yuki: That's why he doesn't get turned on by us, Hasaki-chan. If there are that many rumors, then it must be true. I'm really sad to hear about all this. Master: If you just jump in bed with anyone who asks, the guys around here will eat you up in no time. Tomosane: You can't call those rumors! That's all just pure fabrication! And who said I was jumping in bed with any of those faggots?! Yuki: Then who do you like? Tomosane: I don't know! Wait... Is the conversation changing course? Why are we talking about the person I like? Master: You don't have a favorite, huh? The other suspicious customers would be... Tomosane: None of your customers are suspicious in this case... Hasaki: U-Um, then maybe that girl from earlier. Tomosane: From earlier? Tomosane: Uh, Takashima Zakuro? Not at all. That's what I'd like to say, but... I might be able to push Hasaki away if I say I like Takashima. Hasaki: O-Ohh... So you want to push me away. Tomosane: Wait! How did you know what I was thinking?! Yuki: I told her. Tomosane: Wh-Why, you! Why can you read my mind all of a sudden? Hasaki: Which means... you really were thinking that. You want to push me away... Tomosane: N-No, I didn't mean it in a bad way. Tomosane: Besides, I don't like anyone! I hate people in general! Yuki: What's up with that? Do you think you can just say that and run away? Tomosane: I'm not running away. Why do you think there has to be someone I like? I don't have any particular affection for anyone. Yuki: Oh, so you just hate people, huh? That's how much you love yourself, huh? Tomosane: What makes you say that? Yuki: Only myself can I love, so I hate all of the above * By Tomosane."* Tomosane: Haa... This is getting a bit stupid. Whenever I talk to her, it's like we just get stuck in an infinite loop. Tomosane: And besides, you're mistaken if you think young men are turned on all the time. Tomosane: In my case, I'm sharing this body with another person. Some dumbass is dealing with all that lust. Yuki: What, are you saying I'm a horny bitch in heat?! Tomosane: No! I'm not talking about you! Mamiya! I'm talking about Mamiya Takuji! Hasaki: Takuji... Nii-san... Tomosane: That's right. That's why I don't get turned on. It's not your fault, Hasaki, or yours, Yuki. Master: That's right. And it's not my fault either. I was scared for a second there when you said you didn't get turned on by such a beautiful guy like me. Tomosane: You're not even on my radar! Yuki: Isn't this the first time all three of us have walked home together? Tomosane: Well, anyone else would say there are only two people here... including Hasaki. Hasaki: No, that's not true. Tomosane: Hasaki... Hasaki: I feel like I can actually see both of you. Hasaki: Yuki-san is like my big sister... and Tomo Nii-san is a big stinking bully. Yuki: Hasaki-chan! Hasaki: Wha! Tomosane: Don't just hug her all of a sudden. You're making me hug her too. Hasaki: Jeez... You always say stuff like that, Tomo Nii-san. Yuki: Like I said, he just gets embarrassed. He really wants to be nice to you. Tomosane: That's just one of your delusions. Yuki: My delusions, is it? Tomosane: What? Yuki: Nothing. Nothing, huh? Yuki knows the real reason why I'm cold to Hasaki. And we haven't explained that reason to Hasaki. When Yuki is completely cut off... that will be the moment when Mamiya Takuji and I disappear. Hasaki doesn't know. If only Yuki remains, then there shouldn't be a problem. Yuki is more human than us, and if nothing else she's definitely smart. She's inherited all the abilities of Mamiya Takuji during the height of his prosperity. She isn't twisted like me. But if Hasaki knew that Mamiya Takuji and I were going to disappear... Well, that's why Yuki makes jokes like that but never says the truth. When Yuki talks about the truth, she never jokes around. She always speaks in a strong tone of voice and unconditionally denies our destiny. She denies that my disappearance is inevitable. And she argues without any basis or proof, which is unlike her. She just denies it based on her feelings. We just got into an argument about it earlier, but it was a conversation that Hasaki couldn't hear. Yuki loves Hasaki too. She just wants to protect Hasaki. Yuki seems to be searching for a different solution to our destiny. And she's rushing to do it. She was always talkative around me, but lately she's been even more so. We'll pass each other by, and soon we'll never see each other again. She seems to be striving for some other solution, some way to fight against our destiny. Sometimes it pains me when she's trying so hard to be cheerful. It's like she's just pretending... That's how it feels. Yuki: That's how I look, huh? Tomosane: You were reading my mind again? Get a hobby. Yuki: Ahahahaha... Sorry. Yuki: It pains you when I'm being so cheerful, huh? I never would've imagined you saying those words. Tomosane: Yeah, but as times passes and your appearances have grown closer together, even you must have started to realize how powerless you are. Yuki: That's ridiculous. It's not like I only just realized it. I knew I was powerless from the beginning. Yuki: I haven't accomplished anything! V for victory! Tomosane: If you failed, then there's no victory... Yuki: You think? Ahahahaha... Yuki laughed. She laughs a lot lately. But it was painful for me to look at that smile. Sometimes her face... looks more like she's crying than smiling. Tomosane: You've maintained your existence for quite a while today. Yuki: Yeah, lately I've been working hard to stop myself from disappearing. Tomosane: To stop yourself from disappearing? Yuki: That's right. Tomosane: Is that possible? Yuki: Yeah, I'm really putting my all into it. I'm making sure that I don't lose consciousness, and I'm trying to commit everything that happens to memory. Tomosane: So you don't lose consciousness? Yuki: You should understand, Tomosane. It's like trying not to fall asleep, I guess? Tomosane: I guess you could say it's kind of like sleeping... Though I always disappear in an instant, so it's more like getting knocked out for me. Tomosane: I understand that part, but what do you mean about your memory? Yuki: Oh, you probably don't know what I mean. Yuki: Since you never have to worry about preserving the continuity of your memories. Yuki: You know, I have to be very careful to keep every memory I have fresh. If something fades from memory for a moment, it usually doesn't ever come back. Tomosane: It doesn't come back? Yuki: Yeah, from what I can gather, it seems like my memories have lost their continuity more than once. Tomosane: From what you can gather? What's that supposed to mean? Yuki: Sadly enough, I don't know myself. This might be obvious, but since I'm losing my memories, I don't have any memories of what I've forgotten. Yuki: When I have that experience, I just think... What is it that makes a human being human? Tomosane: What makes a human being human? Yuki: Yeah. What's necessary for a human to be human? What's necessary for me to be me? Tomosane: Would that be... the continuity of memory? Yuki: That's right. The one thing that I need to be me is my memory. Yuki: Losing one's memory is the same as losing one's self. Tomosane: That's a pretty grim way of putting it. Yuki: Yeah, and Hasaki says that she's seen me during those moments. Tomosane: You mean when you're talking to Hasaki? Yuki: Yeah. Until just recently, I've always seen Hasaki-chan as Hasaki-chan. But sometimes I'll see her as herself one moment, and then the next moment as the fictional person Wakatsuki Tsukasa. Yuki: I heard about it after the fact... But you know how she is. Hasaki-chan didn't want to tell me much about it. Tomosane: I see... So that's why you're working to preserve your continuity? Yuki: Pretty much. Tomosane: Seems like it would wear you out. Yuki: Yeah, it does. But it's something I chose to do. Tomosane: Your memory makes you the person you are, huh... Yuki: It's the reason you are you. When I think about who I am, it makes me realize how precious memory is. Yuki: If your memory is overwritten with new memories all the time, then there's no real proof that you really are you... Seriously. Tomosane: ... Tomosane: That has nothing to do with it... Yuki: What? Tomosane: Memory... Realization... Even without those things, you are you. Yuki: I wonder about that. Besides, you've never met the new me. Tomosane: I guess I haven't met her yet, have I? Yuki: Yeah, and it's not just her memory that's messed up. Her perceptions are warped, too. She sees Hasaki-chan as Wakatsuki Tsukasa, and she thinks the rabbit doll is a girl called Wakatsuki Kagami. Yuki: I wonder how would she see you, Tomosane. Tomosane: Just a stranger, probably. Yuki: You think? I'm not really sure, but... if I'm still me, then I doubt I would ever see you as a stranger. Tomosane: That's just what you want to think. I'm sure I would just be a guy with an attitude problem. Yuki: I dunno... You wouldn't talk to me anymore if I was like that, would you? Tomosane: The new you would probably hate me, so I would do my best to ignore you. Yuki: So you would hate the new me, huh? Tomosane: I never said I'd hate you. Yuki: But you wouldn't like me, would you? Tomosane: I don't know. Yuki: I wonder if you'd still love me even if I wasn't me anymore. I'd like to believe that you would still love me as passionately as you do now. Can I believe in you? Tomosane: ... Tomosane: Wait! I've never had any special feelings for you before! Yuki: Ahahahaha... Gotcha. Tomosane: And besides, we probably wouldn't even be able to speak to each other. Tomosane: When you're completely cut off from the world, Mamiya and I will be gone. It's not a matter of whether we would see each other or not, since it would be impossible. Yuki: There you go again. Yuki: Even if I can't see you, I'd like you to keep existing. Tomosane: What are you talking about? Once you're cut off, even those thoughts will disappear. Yuki: Maybe they'll disappear when it happens, but... right now, that's what I really want. Yuki: I don't care what the new me thinks. Right now I want you to keep existing. Tomosane: What are you talking about? Yuki: Haa... I just wanted to tell you, that's what I was thinking. Yuki: Oh, that's right! Hasaki-chan! Yuki suddenly raised her voice. She spoke in a voice that used our voicebox, so that other people could hear her speak. Yuki: Hasaki-chan, why don't you sleep in my bed once in a while? Tomosane: Upfh! Hasaki: Huh? Yuki: I know I look like a boy, but I'm a girl on the inside, so there's no danger. Tomosane: But I'm a guy on the inside and the outside! Hasaki: But you said you weren't attracted to me, Tomo Nii-san, so there's no problem. Tomosane: Now you too?! Hasaki: I don't mind * I want to spend as much time with Yuki-san as possible."* Tomosane: W-Wait! I mind! Yuki: Why? Tomosane: Y-You can't! You know damn well there's a problem with having a boy and a girl sleep in a bed together! Yuki: What, so you really would get turned on? Tomosane: N-No way! Hasaki: Then it should be fine. It's not like I want to sleep with you, Tomo Nii-san. I want to sleep with Yuki-san. Tomosane: But it's the same thing! We share a body! Yuki: But you said yourself it wouldn't be a problem. You just told us that you're not attracted to either one of us. Tomosane: I-It's a problem morally! Yuki: There's a problem morally with two siblings sleeping in the same bed? Hasaki: If not, then there should be no problem. Tomosane: U-Um, wait! What if Mamiya Takuji suddenly showed up? Yuki: That won't happen. He refuses to recognize anything that would cause inconsistencies in his world, so he won't come out. Tomosane: Y-You never know. He's a lolicon, a pedo, and a pervert, so he might... Hasaki: If he does, then I'll handle it. There won't be a problem. Yuki: That's right. Besides, Mamiya Takuji believes he's weaker than even a girl, right? He's not strong enough to overpower Hasaki. Tomosane: Even weaker than Hasaki? What a freak. Tomosane: So, now what? Yuki: Let's get some sleep! Hasaki: Yeah! Tomosane: Hell no! Yuki: Why not? It's bedtime. Tomosane: So why are you sleeping in my room?! And why is Hasaki in her pajamas? Hasaki: Because I'm going to sleep. Tomosane: No, that's not what I mean. Why in my room? Yuki: What are you blabbering about? I moved in before you, so it's my room! Tomosane: Whatever... All right, fine, I don't care about you. Tomosane: Hasaki, get out! Hasaki: Why can Yuki-san stay, but I can't? Tomosane: That should be obvious! Hasaki: That's not a reason. I asked you why Yuki-san can stay, but I can't. Tomosane: I don't need a reason! We can't do anything separately! Yuki: That's not true. I'm only barely holding on, so I could disappear any time you want. Tomosane: You can disappear?! Yuki: Like I said, I feel like I'm gonna faint. Let me get some sleep. Tomosane: Then just disappear right now! Yuki: No way. I held onto my consciousness for this long, so at least let me sleep in my own bed. You don't understand how stressful it is enduring this for so long, since you've never had to do it yourself! Yuki: I feel so sleepy, almost like I stayed up four nights in a row. Tomosane: Then just disappear already! Yuki: I endured it for so long. Why won't you just let me sleep in my bed?! Maybe you're the one who should just disappear already! Tomosane: If I could conveniently disappear right now, I would! I'm telling you to disappear because I can't! Yuki: Then why don't you practice until you can * All right, I'm getting in bed!"* Tomosane: Stop it, you dumbass. Ah... Yuki: Ow! What are you doing?! Tomosane: That's my line! Yuki: Ah... Tomosane: Hm? What? Yuki: How did it end up like this? Tomosane: Why are you so calm... in this situation... Yuki: You're the one who knocked me down. Tomosane: No! You were the one that fell! I've never been so glad Hasaki can't see us both. I don't understand how this happened. I ended up on top of Yuki. Yuki: How about you get off me before you space out? Tomosane: Why Yuki: Well, not like I really care, but my panties are showing. Tomosane: Wha―? Yuki: Wait, did you flip up my skirt on purpose when we fell? Tomosane: That's ridiculous. Yuki: Really? Well, if you wanna take a looksie, just say so. Giving a bit of fanservice to my little virgin brother is just one of my duties as a sister. Tomosane: I really will kill you... Hasaki: What's wrong, Yuki-san? Yuki: Oh, Hasaki-chan, come in the bed with us. Tomosane: What are you saying?! Hasaki: Yeah! Tomosane: No! Stop―whoa! Yuki: Wow, the sheets are cool to the touch. Tomosane: Why are all three of us in the same bed?! Hasaki: So fluffy... Tomosane: Hasaki! Get out! Hasaki: No. I don't like you because you always order me around, Tomo Nii-san. Tomosane: Yuki! Yuki: This is fun. Tomosane: This is not fun at all! Hasaki: This is fun. Yuki: Look, Hasaki-chan is telling the truth. The majority vote says that this is fun! Tomosane: You can't have a vote to decide if something's fun! Yuki: Oh right, Tomosane, do you wanna take a bath together next time? Tomosane: Yeah, right! Yuki: But what would you do if you had to take a bath when our personalities were overlapping? Tomosane: Th-That's never happened before. Yuki: That's only because I wasn't able to control when I was awake. Now I'd be able to create just such a situation, if I wanted. Tomosane: Then it would be your fault! Yuki: But it's still possible. Or would you just go days without a bath? That sounds like hell on earth. Tomosane: Don't ask me! Anyway, I'm not taking a bath with you! Hasaki: Couldn't you just wear a swimsuit? Yuki: That's right! Tomosane: That's not right! Hasaki: If I wore a swimsuit, I could come in too. Tomosane: No, you couldn't! Hasaki: Why? Tomosane: Just think about it. Two siblings can't take a bath together in their swimsuits. Hasaki: Really? Yuki: No, I don't see any problem with that. Yuki: Or rather... maybe it's only a problem because Tomosane would be looking at you with lust in his eyes? Tomosane: Th-That's impossible! Yuki: Besides, a swimsuit is something that you can show other people at the beach or the pool, so why's he overreacting like that?! What's your conclusion, Hasaki-chan?! Hasaki: It's probably because he would get turned on. Tomosane: I would not! That's what I've been telling you! Hasaki: Is that a fact? Tomosane: Ow, ow, ow, oww! Why are you pinching me, Hasaki?! Yuki: That one was your fault. You can't tell a woman she's not attractive. Tomosane: But I wouldn't, you know? We're siblings. Isn't that perverted? Yuki: Is that so? Then there should be no problem if I do this. Tomosane: Wh-What are you doing?! Yuki, wait! Hasaki: Wh-What are you doing, Yuki-san? Yuki: I'm just holding you close. He said it wouldn't be a problem, after all. Tomosane: Don't do that! Yuki: And it's so narrow that I don't have much choice anyway. We hardly fit in the bed. Tomosane: Who cares if you're not covered? It's the middle of summer! Yuki: We'll catch a cold, right, Hasaki-chan? Hasaki: Yeah. Tomosane: Why would you? Yuki: Hasaki-chan always sets the air conditioning to 27 degrees Celsius and sleeps under the covers. Hasaki: Otherwise I can't sleep... Yuki: And today we set the air conditioning to 25 degrees because it's gonna be like an oven with three of us under the covers. Hasaki: So if we're not all under the covers, we'll catch a cold. Tomosane: Wait, wait, I don't understand. Can't we at least sleep in separate beds? Yuki: What do you think, Hasaki-chan? I think it feels better this way. Hasaki: I like this way too. Tomosane: Ah! Hasaki buried her face in my chest. I couldn't believe how small and fragile she felt... Yuki: ...What? Tomosane: Whoa, why are you holding her to my chest again?! Yuki: You were just thinking about how good Hasaki-chan's little body felt. Hasaki: Huh? Tomosane: N-No, I wasn't! Yuki: Yes, you were. Lately, I've been able to hear your internal dialogue. You can't fool me. Tomosane: B-But that's... Sh-She's just cute like a puppy. She's my sister, you know? She's cute like any little sister... Hasaki: ... Yuki: Hasaki-chan is glad to hear that, even if it is that kind of cuteness. Hasaki: W-Well... It's better than hearing him say he's not interested at all. Yuki: Let me tell you a secret Hasaki-chan, just between the two of us. He's getting sexually aroused too. Hasaki: What? Tomosane: Wait! That's a lie! How would you know that?! You said you could only read my mind! Yuki: Hmm... So you're not? Tomosane: Absolutely not! Hasaki: Absolutely not... Yuki: Wow, it's really hot in here. Tomosane: Then get out of the bed. Yuki: That would be a bit cold. Oh, it must be because I'm still wearing my clothes. Let's take these off now. Tomosane: Don't take off your clothes for no reason! Yuki: It's not like it really matters. I only exist in your head, after all. I'm taking my clothes off. Tomosane: W-Wait! Hasaki: Huh? D-Did she take them off? Yuki: Yeah, but only me. Tomosane didn't take anything off, so there's nothing to worry about. Tomosane: You've been able to do a lot of new things lately, haven't you? Yuki: I've been around a lot longer than you. If you train your perceptions, you can control them more than you might think. Tomosane: You shouldn't use your brain's defects like that. Yuki: I wonder if they really are defects. Maybe they're actually special powers. It just depends on how you wanna look at it. Hasaki: Um, I'm a bit hot too, so... Tomosane: W-Wait! You can't do that! Hasaki: I already... pulled down my pajama bottoms. Tomosane: Pull them back up! Hasaki: Why? You said I was just like a puppy, right? Would you get turned on by an animal if it wasn't wearing pants? If you saw a cat or dog without pants, would you get turned on? Tomosane: No, not at all... But even if you're cute like a puppy, we're still siblings, so... Hasaki: Underwear is just a piece of fabric. It'll be okay... Besides, Yuki is already in her underwear, isn't she? Yuki: Wow, Hasaki-chan, you can be a scary girl sometimes. Hasaki: No, uh, I was just a bit jealous. I heard you were really beautiful, Yuki-san. Tomosane: She's the only one who ever said that! Yuki: You have to admit I look pretty good! Tomosane: I have to? By what standard? Yuki: Who cares about that? Let's get some sleep. Tomosane: Don't wrap your leg around me! Yuki: Jeez... Don't wrap your leg around me, don't snuggle with Hasaki... You sure have a lot of demands. Tomosane: I shouldn't have to demand them in the first place! Tomosane: And Hasaki! Don't try to squeeze in between my arms just because you're small! Hasaki: But I fit perfectly. Tomosane: You shouldn't just stick it in without thinking because it's a perfect fit, or else you might get in trouble with the law. Yuki: Like rape? Tomosane: I-I wasn't talking about that! Like parking, or illegal dumping of waste! Hasaki: You mean... you just think of me like you think about parking... or illegal dumping? Jeez, Hasaki is in a bad mood. It just keeps getting worse and worse. What's going on here? But still, Hasaki's body sure is something. I always knew she was really small, but I didn't know she was like this. She's just the right size to fit in the crook of my arm. Yuki: What do you think about my boobs on your back? Tomosane: You're vulgar. Yuki: What's your problem? I knew you were a lolicon that's obsessed with flat chests! Hasaki: U-Um, Yuki-san, I'm not that flat-chested. I have a little bit there. Yuki: Really? Hasaki: Well, I'm not an A cup. I'm a B cup... Though it is kinda loose on me. Tomosane: Isn't that still pretty much flat-chested? Hasaki: That's not unusual at my age! Maybe I am on the small side, but I'm bigger than an AA cup or an AAA cup. Sometimes an A cup is too small and I don't fit. Tomosane: Sometimes you don't fit in an A cup, huh? Hasaki: But the most common size in my grade is a B cup, so I'm perfectly normal. My chest isn't that small. Yuki: Hasaki-chan, are you wearing a bra? Hasaki: Oh, well, yeah... Yuki: Why don't you take it off when you're sleeping? Hasaki: Huh? Th-That's... Tomosane: You don't need to do that! Now go to sleep! ... How unusual... Yuki: Zzzz. I'd never seen Yuki's sleeping face before. She saw me sleeping once, but I never expected to do the same to her. This had never happened before. Tomosane: Maybe this is the harbinger of a great change. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: Oh, Hasaki, you were awake? Hasaki: Yeah, I just woke up. Hasaki: It must be rough for Yuki-san. Tomosane: Y-Yeah... We haven't told Hasaki what it will really mean when Yuki is cut off. Well, she probably understands more or less. Hasaki: I wish the three of us could live like this forever. ... I was at a loss for words. No, I should just agree with her. But as I looked at Hasaki's lonesome face, I couldn't find any words to say to her. Tomosane: The three of us, huh? That might be nice. I don't know the future. Only God knows what will happen in the future. But that's what Hasaki wished for. She wished for this life. She wished for a plain, boring life where one day melts into the next. And I can't even give her that. Yuki: Zzz. Tomosane: I can hear Yuki breathing in her sleep. And Hasaki too. Tomosane: I wonder if they're having good dreams. Tomosane: Haa... But... This place can't be their Wonderful Everyday. They have to grasp something new in the new world that's waiting for them. After I pondered on it for a while, I went to sleep feeling like there actually was something I wanted to accomplish of my own free will for the very first time.
Class is boring today too... So boring... I looked over the classroom. There were no faces I recognized. Because I never tried to remember any of them. Apparently Yuki knows a lot of people in class, though. Tomosane: What? Now that I think about it... When Yuki is cut off from the world, she perceives Hasaki as two twin sisters. She said those illusionary twins were in her class, but it's not like Hasaki is one of her classmates, so why would she see them? Maybe it's an illusion that she sees even when Hasaki isn't here? I guess you can hallucinate something regardless of whether there's actually something there. Tomosane: I wonder if that's right... The illusionary world that her mind is creating has its own internal consistency. For instance, the number of personalities. Mamiya Takuji, Minakami Yuki, and me. It's not a coincidence that there are three of us. We correspond to the Creator, the Harmonizer, and the Destroyer. My name was even created by reversing the name Minakami Yuki and changing the reading of the characters. So when it comes to Hasaki, Yuki doesn't see an arbitrary illusion without internal consistency. As proof, there are several reasons why she perceives one person, Hasaki, as two twin sisters. First, because that rabbit doll isn't just a doll to Hasaki. Mamiya Takuji gave it to her as a gift. Back when he was (supposedly) still normal, he made it for his little sister. I say supposedly because I don't have any memories about it myself. I heard it all from Yuki. When Takuji gave her that present, that was the best time in Hasaki's life. After that, the incident occurred. The incident that could be called the original evil behind all our problems. The great incident that left scars on Hasaki's mind and body. The incident that stole all of her happy days. After that incident... To Hasaki, the self that continued maturing was fake. She started to perceive the doll she received from her brother as the real Hasaki. She declared her maturing body to be fake and insisted that the doll was the real one, all so she could stop her physical development in the happy days of her life. Of course, Hasaki doesn't believe that anymore, but... Her scars and trauma were so bad that she had to believe that for a certain period of time. And of course, those scars are the reason why she still holds on to that doll. Her spirit wasn't completely destroyed. That doll is... The material form of the best time in her life. Her memory itself. That's what the doll is to her. That's why Mamiya Takuji perceives Hasaki as twins. The Hasaki that continues to grow... and the rabbit that's frozen in time. Though it's a mystery why he sees the growing one as the younger sister and the one frozen in time as the elder. Maybe it's just hard for him to look at Hasaki and see an older sister. By the process of elimination, the rabbit that didn't have such a strong impression became the older sister. As for the twins' names... I don't know the details about where they came from. Apparently he took the names from some twins in an anime. I don't really know what kind of anime it was, though. I heard that it almost looks more like a game than an anime. And I don't know if the illusionary twins in his delusions have the same personalities as the twins in that anime. It probably doesn't matter. I have no idea why their last name is Wakatsuki. Well, it was Takuji's idea, so that name is probably from an anime or an eroge. I'm sure there's no real significance to the name. But still, the delusions are mostly logical and internally consistent. And that's why tiny inconsistencies appear between the delusions and the real world. Those inconsistencies are what warp his perceptions. Yuki and Mamiya Takuji feel the warping of their perceptions especially strongly. Mysteriously enough, I hardly ever experience any warped perceptions. Yuki experiences a lot of these warped perceptions. Like when people call her "Mamiya," she hears it as her own name. That has never happened to me. People call me Mamiya Takuji, and I hear it as Mamiya Takuji. I experience some effects that are similar to Yuki and Mamiya's hallucinations, but my brain doesn't attempt to forcibly establish internal consistency. Maybe that's the proof that I'm going to disappear soon. A short-lived personality doesn't need that kind of consistency. Absurd leaps forward in time. Absurd perceptions. My brain doesn't even care if things like that happen. After all, I'm just going to disappear eventually. "Tomo Nii-san." Tomosane: Hm? Tomosane: Whoa! Hey! Teacher: Haa... What is it, Mamiya? Tomosane: Oh, uh... It's nothing. Teacher: If it's nothing, then don't raise your voice, please. Tomosane: H-Hey, you... Hasaki: I brought you lunch. Tomosane: You dummy... Hasaki: It's your fault. You never bring the lunchboxes I make for you to school. Tomosane: No, it wasn't me this morning. Hasaki: Either way, I made you lunch. Tomosane: Y-You shouldn't do that. At least don't come in during class. Hasaki: I stand out a lot more during the breaks, since all the students are out in the halls. Tomosane: Th-That's true, but... Miu: Ahahahaha, you should take it and be thankful. Tomosane: Who are you? Miu: You know who I am. We've been in the same class all year long. Who is this? Miu: Jeez, don't look at me like you don't know who I am. Hasaki: Miu-san always opens the door for me and helps me make it over to this side of the classroom. Tomosane: What? Now that I think of it, Hasaki actually has brought me lunch during class a few times before. Miu: I mean, Hasaki-chan always comes over to me and asks where Tomo Nii-san is. Miu: Oh right, Mamiya-kun, was your first name Tomo? Tomosane: No, it's Takuji, but... Miu: Then why does Hasaki-chan call you Tomo Nii-san? Hasaki: Oh, that's just... Tomosane: Oh, it's just because I'm her friend and her big brother. Don't worry about it too much. I just made up a lie. More importantly, Hasaki made friends with someone at my school while I wasn't looking. Hasaki: I'll make dinner today, so don't you dare eat cup ramen somewhere. Tomosane: I was planning on going to Hakushuukyou right after school. Hasaki: No. Eat dinner at the house first, then go to work! There will be too much if you don't come eat some. Tomosane: Just put it in the fridge, then. Hasaki: I want you to eat it when it's warm. Tomosane: What for? Teacher: Mamiya! Tomosane: Ah, yes! Teacher: My hearing's terrible, and even I can hear you. Can't you at least talk a little quieter? Tomosane: Ah, s-sure... So you don't mind if I talk as long as I'm quiet? Teacher: Jeez... This always happens because you never remember to bring the lunch your sister packs for you. You should learn from your mistakes. Tomosane: Y-Yes... Wait, huh? What did he say? My sister... Teacher: I'm losing my hearing, so I don't notice. The other teachers would scold you if they saw that. Tomosane: O-Okay... Hasaki: P-Please excuse me... Teacher: Well, okay... But it's a problem if you come in during class, so try to do it inbetween classes from now on. Hasaki: Ah, okay... Thank you. Teacher: And remember, I'm losing my hearing, so let's just say I was talking to myself this entire time. Wait... How long have the teachers known about Hasaki? Miu: Ahaha, what are you so surprised about, Mamiya-kun? Tomosane: Oh, uh... I didn't think the teachers knew about Hasaki is all. Miu: Why would you think that? She's always wandering the halls here at school. Miu: She's kind of famous, since she's such a good little girl that always comes to bring her big brother lunch. Male Student: I'm jealous that you have such a nice sister, Mamiya-kun. Female Student: I wish I had a sister like that. Tomosane: S-Sure... What's going on? Why are all these people acting like we're friends or something. Teacher: Class is dismissed. Hasaki: Sorry... Miu: Don't worry about it. It's his fault for forgetting his lunch all the time. Miu: And thanks to that, we all got to meet you, Hasaki-chan. I knew Hasaki had brought me lunch during class before, but I didn't recall it being like this. Tomosane: Yuki... This atmosphere in the class... It must be Yuki's doing. Yuki always says she hates people, but she makes friends so easily that everyone likes her. I could never do that... and it's kind of bothersome for me, really. Hasaki: Are you... mad at me? Tomosane: Oh, uh... It's nothing. Male Student: You have such a cute little sister, Mamiya-kun. Male Student: Her name's Hasaki-chan. Male Student: Oh wow... Where do you go to school, Hasaki-chan? They all talk to her so casually. The original Mamiya Takuji was always treated like a leper, and he even turned into an object of fear after my personality was born, but... Somehow, before I even realized, I'd turned into someone that they all felt comfortable talking to. What a pain in the ass... Hasaki: Oh, I'm not going to school. Male Student: Oh, do you take courses online? Female Student: God, would you shut up? That's none of your business. Male Student: Ahahaha. Maybe that's why... Maybe the reason the other Yuki personality always sees the Wakatsuki twins here at school is because Hasaki comes and wanders around the halls so much. Hasaki's presence is such an open secret that Yuki might start to think of her as another classmate. Miu: Just be careful. Mr. Izumida doesn't really mind, but Senagawa would forbid Hasaki from the school if she found out. Tomosane: Okay... This is a comfortable environment for Hasaki. That must be Yuki's work too. But this is ridiculous. If she starts making any trouble at all for the school, she definitely won't be allowed on school grounds anymore. I have to admit, though, it would make my life a lot easier if she wasn't allowed at school. Annoying stuff like this wouldn't happen anymore. All of my classes ended. My consciousness never faded. I had to sit through the entire school day. It was kind of a pain in the ass, but I took notes, listened to the teachers, and thought about all their useless drivel, so in a way I was a model student. Lately I've been thinking... this might not be so bad. Tomosane: Okay, then... Time for work. Miu: Huh? Didn't your sister tell you to check in at home first? One of the girls from my class blocked my way. It was the girl with the seat next to the door, who always lets Hasaki in. Tomosane: Haa... Please don't pry into other people's domestic matters. Miu: Domestic matters... Is that really the problem here? Tomosane: Every person should make their own path. Miu: Hmm... Tomosane: And besides, how long have you known about Hasaki, girl? Miu: Girl? I have a name, you know. It's Iwada Miu. Tomosane: Oh, sorry. How long have you known about Hasaki, Iwada? Miu: I've known about her from the beginning, of course. I sit in the back, right next to the hall, so there's no way I would miss a girl sneaking into the classroom. Tomosane: When was that? Miu: When * I don't remember exactly... but since the beginning of the school year, maybe? I guess that would make it some time in April?"* April... Even during the first month of classes... Miu: Yeah. I was the one who told her to wait until there was an old guy teaching the class, so now she only comes in when Mr. Izumida is teaching. Tomosane: I see... But it sounded like Izumida knew. Miu: Maybe it's because he's about to retire? He's pretty lax. He doesn't bother with stuff he doesn't have to. Miu: And he knows that everyone has their own circumstances. Tomosane: Circumstances, huh... Maybe the teachers here at school understood just how complicated the situation at the Mamiya house was. Miu: Well, I couldn't say for sure. Maybe it's just because Hasaki is so cute that she can get away with it. I never asked for your opinion. Miu: So anyway, you have such a cute little sister. You should be nice to her. That has nothing to do with you. I wanted to yell at her. Tomosane: A cute little sister, huh? Miu: Yeah, I'm really jealous of you, Mamiya-kun. You're surrounded by such cute things all the time. Tomosane: Surrounded? Miu: Like the strap on your cell phone. It's really cute. Was that a present from your sister? Tomosane: Cell phone? I've hardly used it. I don't even know how long I've been carrying this old thing around. The battery is so old that I never get a chance to use it. Why would Mamiya Takuji carry around such a useless old phone? The old cell phone had an old strap on it too. Miu: Those twin rabbit dolls are just like the one Hasaki-chan always carries around. Tomosane: Oh, well... Maybe it is. I wouldn't know. There were twin rabbit dolls attached to the cell phone by straps, just like Miu said. Miu: What a nice sister you have. Tomosane: Yeah... This woman is so annoying. I can't believe Yuki made friends with a girl like this while I wasn't looking. I'd like to brush her off, but the new Yuki will live the rest of her life as Mamiya Takuji. I can't destroy a human relationship that she's made on a whim. I'm surprised how much has changed in less than six months. This all must be part of the preparations for Mamiya Takuji's rebirth. Miu: Hmm... The woman called Iwada didn't just look at me. She stopped and stared at me. Tomosane: What? Do you need something? Miu: Oh, uh, that's not it... Miu: I feel like your personality changes a little from time to time. Changes a little, huh? If it's just changing "a little," that must mean the inconsistencies in our perceptions are doing a good job in keeping our external behavior consistent. Three completely different people are sharing this same body, after all. Tomosane: Are you saying that I'm hard to get along with right now? Miu: Oh, uh, I dunno about that... Iwada smiled. Well, it's hard to tell someone they're being a jerk to their face. You can't just tell someone, "It's hard to get along with you." If she didn't want to say it to my face, she shouldn't have pointed it out in the first place. Miu: I wouldn't say you're easy to get along with, but you seem nicer than usual. Tomosane: Nicer than usual? Miu: Yeah, I just got the feeling like you really loved your little sister. Tomosane: Huh? What part of that conversation would make you think that? Miu: No, today was what really convinced me. You were definitely stern with her, but I could tell you were thinking about what's best for her. Miu: Well, it's not a big deal. See ya. What was that? I guess you can't judge people from appearances. I don't get it. Tomosane: That was weird... Oh well. I looked at the clock. I had to be at work soon. Tomosane: It would be a huge pain in the ass to go home and then to work. I should just head straight to Hakushuukyou. Miu: Oh right, Mamiya-kun. Tomosane: What, you're still here? Miu: Hasaki-chan is making dinner for you, so I think she'll be really sad if you don't go home first. Tomosane: ...Yeah. Miu: Well? I know you said it would be a pain. Tomosane: Haa... Would you please stay away from me? You're honestly kind of annoying. Miu: Ahahaha, I'm a busybody. Well, you should listen to your classmates' advice from time to time. See ya. Tomosane: My classmates' advice, huh? It's not like any other classmates have ever given me advice... Tomosane: All right... I'll walk to Suginomiya and then make a decision. Tomosane: ... What? I'm being followed again. By Shiroyama? No, they wouldn't try to jump me before sunset. It's not Shiroyama. They're just trailing me. It's probably one person. It must be that guy from before. Haa... If he's alone, I can just do the same thing as last time. Kimura: H-Huh? Tomosane: Yo. Kimura: H-How did you know? It played out just like before. I walked faster and then turned into an alley, where I waited for my pursuer. This time I turned into a parking lot to wait for Kimura. Why does that dumbass carry around such a huge camera when he's trailing someone? He did the same thing last time. Tomosane: You're still following me, huh? Kimura: Ah, no... I was following a celebrity. Tomosane: Kimura Nobukatsu, journalist. Or are you a paparazzi now? Kimura: Ahahahaha, that's right. Kimura: Wait, I lied! Don't hit me! Tomosane: If you don't want to get hit, then don't make shit up. Kimura: U-Um, what would you be doing today? Tomosane: None of your business. I told you I wouldn't let you off easy if I caught you following me again. Kimura: Oh, uh... There's a reason I'm following you. Tomosane: For your own benefit, I'm sure. Kimura: No, there's more... Tomosane: Oh, is that so? Not just for your own benefit? You know what will happen if you lie to me again, don't you? Kimura: Uh, you were the illegitimate son of the founder of that one religion, the White Lotus Association, right? Kimura: Ahh, my camera! Tomosane: Why, you... What are you investigating? Kimura: Y-You can't! That's my F2 Photomic! You can't buy those anymore! Tomosane: Like I care. Why are you even using such an old piece of shit? Kimura: Because you destroyed my Reflex D3 the other day, of course! Tomosane: What are you talking about? A reflex something or other? Kimura: A DSLR camera! The F2 Photomic is the greatest mechanical SLR camera, but the D3 is the king of all DSLRs! He's awfully passionate about this stuff. Is he obsessed with cameras or something? I guess it's just work-related for him, though. Kimura: It was originally designed for the battleship Yamato, so it's Japan's glory! Tomosane: All right, I got it, I got it. So you'd rather I broke you instead of your camera. How about your arm? Or maybe your leg, so you can't walk anymore? Kimura: Oh, uh... I'm terribly sorry. Tomosane: So then, what were you investigating? Kimura: Oh, uh... Nothing in particular. Tomosane: Oh... So how about we start with the camera, and then go for the legs? Or maybe we should do something special and go for the eyes? Then I'm sure you wouldn't have any use for those cameras of yours. Kimura: No, I-I wouldn't be able to work. But really, I hardly know anything. Tomosane: Hmm... All right, if you say so. You can only try the patience of a saint for so long. Kimura: Wait. Jesus always said to turn the other cheek. Tomosane: What? You want your body dumped in the creek? Kimura: Ah, no... I didn't say anything. Tomosane: What can I do to make you give up? Kimura: I've given up. Tomosane: Oh, really? You expect me to believe that when first you were investigating me, now you're investigating my family too, and you're talking about how you 'hardly know anything.' Kimura: Ahahaha... Well, there was so much interesting stuff about you. Kimura: Your supposed father is Mamiya Hiro, but Mamiya Takuji is definitely the illegitimate child of Mamiya Kotomi and the White Lotus Association founder Shire Tarou. Kimura: That new age religion has a great deal of political influence, so I was really surprised how easy it was to investigate his illegitimate child. Tomosane: I'm really surprised how easy it was to make this dumbass tell me all that. Kimura: Oh... It's nothing to hide. Kimura: Ah, we can't talk here. The police over there are looking at us. Tomosane: Police? Kimura: Look. You probably can't see them very well, but... I turned my head for a second. There weren't any police there, or anyone at all. Tomosane: What police...?! Tomosane: Tch... My vision burned white. I can't believe it. I fell for the same trick twice. That guy is pretty smart. If he just made me look and then ran, I could catch him easily. If he just ran and tried to blind me while he was running away, the result would be the same. If I heard him move even an inch while I was turned around, my body would react instantly. The reason he got me right in the eyes with that flashlight was because he didn't move at all while I was turned around. Instead, he just held up the flashlight so it was right in my face when I turned around. He didn't make the slightest movement aside from holding up the flashlight. That's why I couldn't react in time. Tomosane: His acting was pretty good too. He carries around that huge camera, so it's not hard to spot him when he follows me, but other than that, he definitely knows what he's doing. If he hadn't experienced situations like this before, he wouldn't be able to do that. Tomosane: Haa... Well, anyway. I looked at my cell phone. That journalist took up some more of my time. If I went back to the house and ate before going to work, I'd be late. I felt bad for Hasaki, but I had to head straight to Hakushuukyou now. Hasaki: I knew it. Tomosane: Huh? Hasaki: I knew you would come straight here without going home. Tomosane: Wait, why are you here? You're not working today, are you? Hasaki: I got a text from Miu-san. She said you might not come home. Tomosane: Miu? Wait, you mean Iwada?! What's her problem? What a busybody. Hasaki: I told you to come eat dinner at the house. Tomosane: Something came up. It's not like I wasn't planning on going home. Hasaki: That a fact? Tomosane: Haa... Damn it. That girl sure likes sticking her nose where it doesn't belong. But she got a text from Miu, huh? That must mean Hasaki exchanged phone numbers with other people. That feels a bit weird. I thought Hasaki hated people even more than I do. That must be Yuki's influence too. Hasaki: Master said I could use one of the tables here until the store opens, so I made it here. Tomosane: Here? Hasaki: Yeah, dinner. Tomosane: Oh, I see. Hasaki's cooking was the same as usual. To be honest, this faggot Master's cooking is better, but Hasaki is a lot younger. I should be thankful to her. Even if she did forget to cut the okra. Even if there are still pieces of bonito in it because she sliced it too thinly when she was making the soup stock. Hasaki: Don't laugh at my food, Tomo Nii-san. Tomosane: Huh? Was I laughing? Hasaki: You weren't laughing, but I could tell what you were thinking. I'll be more careful next time. Hasaki: I know the okra isn't cut, and I didn't get all the bonito shavings out of the soup stock... Tomosane: Oh, if you don't shave the bonito so thinly, it's easier to get out. Then you don't have to worry about it. Hasaki: Oh, that makes sense. Tomosane: Hm? Tomosane: The store isn't open yet, is it? Hasaki: No. We're still closed. Tomosane: It sounds like there are a bunch of faggots outside fighting. Hasaki: Oh, they're not fighting. Today is Master's birthday. Tomosane: Really? Hasaki: Yeah, a couple days ago we had to rush and put together a party. Tomosane: Oh, that day when you came home earlier than expected? Hasaki: Yeah, it didn't take as long as I thought. Tomosane: Hmm, is that so? And that's when tragedy befell me... Which means I can blame Master for that one. Tomosane: Master's birthday, huh? That must be why those creatures are all making a ruckus outside. Hasaki: Creatures? Tomosane: Don't worry about it. I unlocked the door and opened it. Tomosane: Shut the fuck up! We're not open yet! Faggot: Huh? Faggot: Huh? Is that you, Tomo-kun? Tomosane: Whoa... What's this? Faggot: It's a champagne shower, of course. Tomosane: But why are you doing that to me? Faggot: Because we thought Master would come out. Tomosane: Look who you're spraying next time, damn it! Tomosane: What the hell is this? The only thing you have for me to change into is girls' clothes?! Master: Ahahaha, the plan was a success. Tomosane: So this was your plan all along... Master: It's the only birthday I'll have all year, you know. What better present than having you dress up in such a cute little dress? Tomosane: A cute dress, huh? A cute dress... It is an awfully frilly dress, but... Master: Yeah, and I had Hasaki-chan take your measurements. Tomosane: My measurements? Hasaki: We still had the measurements for your school uniform. Tomosane: Why, you... Hasaki: Sorry... Master: Oh, don't blame Hasaki-chan. I didn't tell her what I was going to use them for. Hasaki: He said he would make you match with me, but I thought it would be a tuxedo or something. Sorry. Well, normally when you say a guy and a girl match, you picture the guy in a tuxedo and the girl in a dress. What kind of dumbass would dress them both up in women's clothing? Master: Oh, don't be so fussy. We're just celebrating my birthday. Tomosane: I don't know why anyone would celebrate the day something like you came into this world. Master: Jeez, you're always so rude to your martial arts teacher. Faggot: You're a master tactician. You asked us to shower you in champagne because you knew it would be someone else walking through the door. Tomosane: I can't believe you went out of your way just for this. Master: Ahahaha... I'm not actually a tactician at all. I just overslept. Master: But thanks to you guys, Tomosane put on a dress for us. Tomosane: I didn't put it on for you! You stole my other clothes! Master: Oh, come on, I'm just washing them for you. You have to wait till they go through the laundry. Faggot: Would you rather be a nudist or a crossdresser? Given those two options, even Tomo-chan would choose the dress. Tomosane: Yeah... His first suggestion was a naked apron, so naturally I chose this instead. Master: Aren't you happy about it? Tomosane: Why would I be happy, you fucking Sodomite?! Master: You've got quite the mouth on you, don't you? Tomosane: Grr... Master: Oh, that's no good. You'll be no match for me if you're focusing on your skirt instead of the fight. Tomosane: Why, you bastard! I'll kill you! Master: Ohoho, I always wanted to cop a feel on this cute little butt. Tomosane: I'll kill you! I swear I'll fucking kill you! Master: Oh, will you now? Soooo scary... Maybe I should take your virginity right here and now. Hasaki: Uahhh! Master: O-Oh... Hasaki-chan, wait, the water in that kettle is boiling hot. Master: Whoa, w-wait, Hasaki-chan, I was just kidding! Master: Owwwchaaaa!! Master: Jeez... I can tell you're siblings because neither of you can take a joke. Tomosane: That's because you keep doing things that aren't jokes. Master: By the way, what are you wearing for underwear? Tomosane: I'm still wearing my wet boxers. There's no way I could put on those panties. Master: Oh, come on, don't be a party pooper. Put 'em on. There were garters too, you know? Tomosane: I'd rather be a party pooper. Master: Oh really? Maybe I should bend you over this table for real? Tomosane: If you keep talking like that, I'm sure Hasaki can find some more boiling water for you. Master: I suppose so... But really, what do you think? Tomosane: About what? Master: What kind of underwear do you think she prefers? Maybe we should have Hasaki decide for you? Tomosane: Hasaki? What do you mean? Master: I'm saying Hasaki should decide whether you wear boxers or panties. Think about it. You two could have matching underwear too. Hasaki: M-Master! Master: But you said they were cute. Hasaki: W-Well, they are cute panties... Master: So why don't you decide what kind of underwear Tomosane should wear, Hasaki-chan? Tomosane: Why would she do that? It's not like Hasaki wants some sort of pervert who would wear girls' underwear for an older brother. Hasaki: Uh.. * Um..."* Tomosane: Wait, why are you blushing? Hasaki: N-No! It's just because we would match! Tomosane: No... Why would our underwear need to match? Hasaki: I-I guess it doesn't, but... Master: What do you think, Hasaki-chan? Hasaki: Oh, uh, it's fine like this. I don't want to force Tomo Nii-san to do it. Master: What do you mean? You'd rather have him wear the same pair that you have on, right? Hasaki: Oh, uh, that's not true. I just thought maybe it would be nice if we matched. Master: Hold him down. Tomosane: What?! Tomosane: Hey, y-you bastards! Get off me, you faggots! Master: Hehehe... Those two homos are my students just like you, and they have higher belts than you. Tomosane: What, these homos are better than me? Master: Yeah, they've been studying under me since they came to Tokyo. These guys originally did judo for 15 years. They even won tournaments in high school. They're pretty amazing. Tomosane: Wait, why are these guys here just for me? Master: Well, you're going to fight back, right? Tomosane: Why? Master: Because I'm going to force you to wear these. Tomosane: Wha―?! Tomosane: Gaah, seriously, stop! Fucking stop it! Tomosane: Uugh... I've been defiled... Master: All right, now wear that the rest of the day while you work. Tomosane: You're a demon! You're the devil! Master: What are you crying for? Haven't you ever dressed up for a cultural festival at school? Tomosane: If they tried to make me dress up like this at a school festival, I would stop them, even if I had to kill them. Master: Okay, it's about time to open shop. Tonight's a party. Let's make enough sales to make up for last month! Tomosane: Some day, I will kill you... Master: Hehehe, then you'll have to get a lot stronger. This old faggot has been practicing martial arts since long before I... no, long before Mamiya Takuji was born. My experience fighting isn't comparable to his. I saw this faggot fighting some yakuza, and he was chucking glass ashtrays like throwing stars and splitting beer cans to use as shanks. Compared to him, I just look like a little kid play-fighting. Customer: Master, why's there a chick in here? I loved Tomo-kun. Master: Look closer, my friend. I'm pretty sure he's not a woman. Customer: Hmm... What? Oh wow. Tomosane: Don't come near me, you faggots. Customer: My, what a sharp tongue he's got. That's definitely Tomo-kun. Customer: Wow, wow. What happened, Tomo-kun? Tomosane: Shut up! Sit down and drink your fucking beer, assholes! Customer: Woow! Did you shave your legs? Tomosane: Shut up, shut up! Why would I do that?! Customer: Wow, it's so smooth! But I can feel your muscles too. So cute! Tomosane: Don't touch me, you bastard. Next time, there'll be blood. Customer: I-I'm already seeing blood... Master: Come on, hands off the dancer. Tomosane: When did I become a dancer?! Customer: Jeez, Yuki-chan is so much nicer. Tomosane: Don't tell me that. Why don't you say that shit when Yuki's around? Master: Yeah. It's a lot easier to deal with him when it's Yuki. Customer: But I like Tomosane's music more. Master: His piano playing is really depressing if you ask me. Customer: Yeah, Yuki-chan's playing is brighter and happier, but it feels like it's too upbeat for people like us. Tomosane: I see. So my depressing music is more suiting for faggots like you. Customer: Sounds about right, gyahahaha. Tomosane: Gyahahaha, my ass. You guys are always laughing and making jokes. I don't know what you faggots have to complain about. Customer: You don't need a reason to laugh. We couldn't get along in this world if we didn't take some time to laugh once in a while. Master: Yeah, we can be sad when we're alone, not when we're all together. Customer: That must be his hobby. He likes to act gloomy and depressed all the time. Tomosane: Hmph... Jeez... These guys... They make an awful lot of noise. In the end, they made me play the piano and Hasaki sang along. Both of us were humiliated. Maybe we could sue them for human rights violations. That's how bad it was. Master let us off work a little later than usual, and we went home. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san, the bath is ready. Come get in. I heard a voice from downstairs. Tomosane: I'm sticky from all that champagne... I tried to wipe it all off with napkins, but my hair was still sticky. Tomosane: Did Hasaki decide to call me Tomo Nii-san all the time now or what? How did that happen? That must be Yuki's influence again. She's been pushing Hasaki a lot more than usual. Tomosane: Yuki has been really weird lately. It's not like her. She's rushing to finish things. It's weird how she's trying to be so upbeat all the time lately. She must be fighting against our destiny. Making friends with all our classmates must be part of her plan, too. Yuki is gradually disconnecting from the world. So that the Yuki and Mamiya Takuji personalities can be unified. That's why I have to do my job too. My job is to erase Mamiya. I'm making good progress in that. But... Tomosane: I still feel uneasy. Recently, I haven't had as many chances to meet Mamiya Takuji. Of course, Yuki being disconnected from this world is synonymous with Mamiya Takuji's personality fading. So I can understand why I wouldn't be able to meet him as often. But... Is that really the only reason? Is Mamiya Takuji's personality really fading? My reason for existence is the destruction of his personality. Erasure through utter self-denial. That's the mission I've been tasked with. That's undeniable, and yet... Tomosane: Somehow I feel like Mamiya Takuji's existence is growing stronger by the day. I've felt him especially strongly since the beginning of this month. His existence hasn't weakened, but rather, it's like his control over this body has grown stronger. What does it mean? Tomosane: It couldn't be... Does Yuki feel it too? If Yuki feels this unease too... Tomosane: Unease... Yuki: Like a feeling in your chest? Tomosane: A feeling... in my ch― Whoa! Tomosane: Why are you here?! Yuki: Hello, Tomosane. Tomosane: Y-You dumbass, why are you in the bath with me?! Yuki: Hmm, well, I couldn't control it this time. I woke up, and here I was. Tomosane: Th-Then just d-disappear! Yuki: Really? Are you sure you didn't call for me? Tomosane: Me? Call for you? Yuki: Yeah. There was something you really wanted to ask me. Tomosane: You can appear just like that? Yuki: Who knows? I just got that kind of feeling. I told you before, but I'm definitely getting cut off from this world. Yuki: But interestingly enough, the more it happens, the more freedom I have. Tomosane: Freedom. Yuki: Yeah, I told you I could kind of tell what you were thinking. Tomosane: You did say that. Yuki: Yeah, and not the voice you use to talk to me in your head, but what you're really thinking. Yuki: I can hear that voice even when I'm unconscious. Tomosane: Even when you're unconscious? Yuki: Yeah, the more my existence fades, the more I can understand your actions, words, and even thoughts. Tomosane: But aren't you unconscious? Yuki: I guess it's kind of like a dream. Tomosane: But you said that you heard my thoughts and that's why you appeared just now. Yuki: Yeah, apparently I can wake up if you're thinking of something that really resonates with my heart. Tomosane: I see... So that's why you're here? Yuki: Yeah, and also... I can read one other person's mind too. Tomosane: One other person? You mean Mamiya Takuji? Yuki: Yeah. I hear his thoughts too. When I'm unconscious, or at least when my personality doesn't exist, I can hear your thoughts, and Mamiya Takuji's thoughts too. Tomosane: So... what is he thinking? Yuki: Oh, he's just thinking about stupid stuff. He's always like that. Tomosane: Stupid stuff? Yuki: Yeah, like this anime doesn't have any panty shots, or this anime has a stupid plot. Tomosane: Th-That really is stupid. Yuki: Yeah, it's really stupid, but... Tomosane: But? Yuki: Oh, it's nothing... It's just that now I understand how much time Mamiya Takuji actually spends jerking off. Tomosane: You don't have to read his mind to understand that. Yuki: Really? Tomosane: His underground room is full of dirty books and suspicious tissues. Yuki: You mean his secret base? You've gone there before? Tomosane: I haven't gone there, but I switch with him down there all the time. Yuki: Hmm. I see. Tomosane: What do you mean? Yuki: I've never been down there. Tomosane: Really? Yuki: Yeah, I've never been down there. I didn't really know about it. Tomosane: You didn't know about it? Yuki: Yeah, you never told me about it. Tomosane: Oh, uh... I just thought you knew. Yuki: I only learned about it since I started hearing his thoughts. Yuki: What's down there? Tomosane: If you're interested, why don't you just go see? You know where it is, don't you? Yuki: Ahahaha... That's probably impossible. Tomosane: Impossible? Yuki: I tried going down there a few times, but when I did... Yuki: Complete shut down... My consciousness disappeared. Tomosane: What's up with that? Yuki: He probably doesn't want to show me that room. Tomosane: Why? Yuki: Well, I can think of a few reasons... A few reasons, huh? Yuki: Yeah, a few reasons. Tomosane: Haa... You're such a creepy girl. Don't read my mind. Yuki: Ahahaha, it's not like I can control it. I just get a feeling about these things. Tomosane: So then... you heard my question? Yuki: You felt uneasy about Mamiya's existence. Tomosane: Yeah, that's right. Yuki: Yeah... Tomosane: You're being disconnected from the world, but he's not weakening at all. Yuki: His existence is growing stronger, you mean. Tomosane: That's right. Yuki: Maybe you're imagining things? Tomosane: That's impossible. You noticed the same thing. Yuki: Today and yesterday, his personality didn't exist for even one second. Tomosane: Y-You can tell that too? Yuki: Pretty much. As for you, yesterday you existed from 8:32 p.m. until 12:35 a.m. when you want to sleep. Today it was from 4:00 p.m. until now. Tomosane: H-How do you know that? Yuki: Like I said, it's like there's a channel between me and all the other personalities when I'm unconscious. Tomosane: Since when? Yuki: Dunno. I only really figured out the details recently, like a couple days ago. I might've had the power during the time I didn't appear for a long time, though. I'm not really sure. Yuki: Anyway, I can't say that you're correct in assuming that Mamiya's existence is growing stronger. Tomosane: That's an awfully roundabout way of putting it. You can't say I'm correct? Yuki: Yeah... I guess so. I can definitely feel the same thing you're feeling. Yuki: But even I don't know what exactly that is. Tomosane: I see... Yuki: But I'm certain that his mental activity is diminished right now. Tomosane: Really... Tomosane: Huh? Yuki: Oh? Hasaki: I knew you two were in here together. Tomosane: Wh-Wh-Wh-What are you doing, Hasaki?! Hasaki: I'm wearing a swimsuit, so it shouldn't be a problem. Tomosane: B-But I'm naked! Hasaki: Then what about Yuki-san? Tomosane: Huh? Hasaki: Yuki-san is here, right? Yuki: Y-Yes... Hasaki: Is Yuki-san wearing a swimsuit? Yuki: Um, sorry. I'm naked. Tomosane: W-Wait, it's not like that, Hasaki! Hasaki: What do you mean? There's no problem, is there? Hasaki: I'm wearing a swimsuit, and you said you didn't get turned on by me or Yuki-san, right? Tomosane: Th-That's true, but... Yuki: U-Um, are you mad about something, Hasaki-chan? Hasaki: Not at all. Besides, yesterday we promised that we'd all get in the shower together, right? Hasaki: I can't believe you would leave me out, Yuki-san. Yuki: Ahahahaha... Sorry about that. Tomosane: This is happening because you made that dumb promise! Hasaki: This happens because a child like me takes her serious... is what you want to say, right, Tomo Nii-san? Tomosane: Huh? Uh, yeah, that's right. It's Yuki's fault, because she always says dumb stuff like that... Hasaki: Then let me ask, what's stupid about what I'm doing right now? Tomosane: A-At this age... we shouldn't be taking baths together. Hasaki: I'm wearing a swimsuit. Tomosane: And I'm naked! Hasaki: I-It's not like I'm looking! J-Jeez... Tomosane: That's not the problem here. Hasaki: Then what's the problem? Tomosane: Oh, uh... You know what it is. Right, Yuki? Yuki: I think it's fine, don't you? You said me and Hasaki don't turn you on, right? Tomosane: That's not the problem here! Yuki: Really? Isn't it? Hasaki-chan says she's not looking at your dick, and you said you don't get turned on by us. Hasaki: Oh, uh... I'll try not to look, but I can still kind of see. Yuki: Oh, really? Tomosane: What do you mean, kind of see?! What kind of compromise is this?! Yuki: Huh? Then what's the problem? If you go crazy with lust from seeing Hasaki's body, I can always make you go unconscious, so don't worry. Tomosane: You can do that too? Dumbass... Yuki: Then what's the problem? If you get turned on by me, well, I'll forgive you for that. Who knows, maybe I'll let you push your luck. Tomosane: Stop fucking around! Hasaki: Yeah... You're going too far now, Yuki-san. Yuki: Oh, you too, Hasaki-chan? Now you're all ganging up on me. Hasaki: Not like it matters. You said you didn't find her attractive, right, Tomo Nii-san? Tomosane: That's right. I'll be getting out now. Yuki: But you haven't washed your body at all yet. Tomosane: Shut up! Yuki: No, you shut up. I share the same body with you, and I don't want to be dirty. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san, you should wash properly. I prepared this bath just for you. Tomosane: Ugh... I don't understand what's going on in their heads anymore. Yuki: And putting that aside, why aren't you looking at me at all? Tomosane: Why would I look at you?! Yuki: What's your problem? I'm not charging you to look, you know. Tomosane: No... I don't want to look, even if it is free. Yuki: You don't have to be so blunt about it. Hasaki: Is Yuki-san's bust really big? Yuki: What do you think, Tomosane? Tomosane: I don't care! Yuki: What do you mean? I'm really not too sure myself. Hasaki: Hmm... Yuki-san is Takuji Nii-san's ideal woman, right? Yuki: Sometimes I wonder about that, but I guess that's more or less on the mark. What about it? Hasaki: Yuki-san, what kind of girls does Tomo Nii-san like? Tomosane: Why are you asking Yuki that?! Hasaki: Because you won't tell me. Tomosane: That doesn't mean Yuki would be able to tell you, though. Yuki: Really? Did you forget about my new powers? I just finished explaining them to you. Tomosane: Wha―! Hasaki: Powers? Tomosane: Oh, uh, it's nothing. Yeah, weather's nice today, isn't it, Hasaki? Hasaki: It's night right now. Tomosane: Yeah, but... isn't the night sky really pretty? Hasaki: I can't see it from inside. So what were those powers you were talking about, Yuki-san? Yuki: Yeah, they're... Tomosane: Shut up! Shut up! This topic is off limits! Hasaki: Why? I'm not asking you! Tomosane: But it's still personal information related to me! Hasaki: But you won't tell me, Tomo Nii-san. Tomosane: Why would you want to know that? There's no reason you should care about your brother's preferences. Hasaki: Thats not true! We should be open about these things because we're siblings. Tomosane: Okay, then what's your type? Hasaki: Huh? Tomosane: Look, you can't answer. That's what I mean. Hasaki: ...lies. Tomosane: Huh? Hasaki: Bullies! Th-That's the kind of person I like. Tomosane: You like bullies? You have awful taste in guys. Hasaki: But then it really stands out when they're nice, which makes me like them more! Tomosane: Hmm... Is that really how it works? I don't really understand women. Hasaki: I-I said it! Now it's your turn! Tomosane: Huh? What do you mean? Yuki: Go on, say it. You promised. Tomosane: I never promised, did I? Hasaki: You did! That's why I told you my type! Tomosane: That's ridiculous. Yuki: It's not ridiculous. You're the one that's being ridiculous. Tomosane: Why are you grinning like that? Yuki: Oh, nothing. It's just a lot of fun to watch this, since I feel like your big sister. Hasaki: Hurry up and say it! You promised! Tomosane: M-Mine? Yuki: That's right. Tell us your type. Tomosane: Then what about you, Yuki?! Yuki: Me? I like you, Tomosane. Tomosane: Huh? Hasaki: Grr... Tomosane: Wh-What did you say? Hasaki: You seem awfully happy about that, Tomo Nii-san. Tomosane: Wh-What on Earth gives you that idea?! Hasaki: You're smiling. Tomosane: I'm frowning! Hasaki: Yuki-san... you like Tomo Nii-san? Yuki: Yeah, Tomosane is a nice guy. Maybe it's just because I don't know anyone else very well, but none of them are as attractive as Tomosane. Yeah right. You know lots of other people. You get along great with everyone in our class. Hasaki: Y-You're really honest about it, huh? Yuki: Well, yeah, but it's unrequited love. Hasaki: Huh? Y-You think? Yuki: Yeah, it is. There's only one girl in Tomosane's heart. Hasaki: Only one girl? Tomosane: Hey! What are you guys talking about now?! Don't talk about me like I'm not here! Hasaki: So Tomo Nii-san really does have someone he likes? Tomosane: No way! Yuki: Hehehe... It's all right, Hasaki-chan. He's not thinking about anyone but you, Hasaki-chan. Hasaki: ... Hasaki: B-But that's... Hasaki: That's just... as a little sister, right? What's she talking about now? What else is there? But still... I know she gets stubborn whenever I say that I don't view her as anything but a sister. If I wanted, I could say it's not like that. Though I'd have to be careful how I phrased it. Tomosane: Of course it is! Hasaki: Oh... Yuki: Hehehe, I wouldn't be so sure about that. Oh well. I'm certain that Tomosane isn't thinking about any other girls, at least. Hasaki: ... Yuki: Hehehe... Don't worry about it, Hasaki-chan. You like bullies after all, right? Hasaki: Uuh... Yuki: So maybe it's better that he can't be honest about it, since he's like a bully? Hasaki: Not at all. Hasaki: How can you keep that kind of attitude around the person you like, Yuki-san? Yuki: Huh? Tomosane: L-Like I said, she was just making a joke, Hasaki. Yuki: What do you mean by attitude? Hasaki: You're naked right now, right? Yuki: Yeah... Well, Tomosane said he wasn't looking, and he doesn't even want to look. Hasaki: Yeah. Yuki: Something like that. Hasaki: I guess so. Tomo Nii-san isn't good for anything, anyway. Yuki: Oh? Tomosane: Hasaki? Yuki: Huh? Hasaki-chan left. Tomosane: Phew... Yuki: What are you so relieved for, Tomosane? Tomosane: Of course I'm relieved. You're bad enough, but add my little sister to the equation too and I can't even think straight. Yuki: Your little sister, huh? It's only at times like this that you think of her as a sister, huh? Hasaki: That's right. At times like this, I'm just a little sister... Yuki: Huh? Hasaki-chan? You're still there in the changing room? Hasaki: Yes, I'm still here. Because... Yuki: Huh? Tomosane: Wha-?! Hasaki: I haven't washed my body yet. Tomosane: Y-You dummy, Hasaki! Where's your swimsuit?! Hasaki: I can't wash myself when I'm wearing that. Tomosane: Y-You dummy, that's not what I'm talking about! Hasaki: Then what's the problem? I'm your little sister, so there's no problem, right? Tomosane: D-Dummy! You're not a little kid anymore! Hasaki: You only treat me like a little kid when it's convenient for you, don't you? Tomosane: Th-That's not the problem here... Hasaki: Besides, Yuki-san is naked, right? Tomosane: Y-Yuki only exists in my head! Hasaki: But to you it's just like she really exists. Tomosane: That doesn't mean... Hasaki: I don't think there's a problem. Just don't look at me. Tomosane: H-Hey, Yuki! Yuki: M-Me? Tomosane: Hasaki is doing this because you said all that stuff! Yuki: Really? I think it's your fault this time. Hasaki: How long are you gonna be washing up? You should come in the tub too. Tomosane: Huh? There's no way two people could fit in that tub! Hasaki: Hmm, you must be scared because you think you'll get turned on. Tomosane: Th-That's impossible. Hasaki: Then what's the problem? Tomosane: I-I'm still washing up... Hasaki: Hmm, is that so? Tomosane: Hey, you! Hasaki: Move over. I need to wash myself too. Tomosane: Oh, but... there's only one seat. Hasaki: I'll just sit on the floor, then. Wh-What's going on here? Tomosane: M-Maybe I should get out now... Hasaki: You haven't washed yourself at all. Tomosane: Oh, I just like to take quick baths is all. Yuki: I like to take long ones. Hasaki: See? Tomosane: Yuki, why'd you say that?! Yuki: What's it matter? You're not turned on by your little sister, now are you? Tomosane: It's not a problem of getting turned on or not! Hasaki: Then what's the problem? Yuki: Come on, let's just wash and get it over with. You haven't washed your hair yet, either. Jeez... Maybe Yuki doesn't mind because she's a woman, but... Yuki: What? You can't control yourself when she's sitting right beside you? Tomosane: Y-Yuki! Yuki: You don't think of Hasaki-chan as just a sister, do you? Tomosane: Of course I do! Yuki: Really? Yuki: You really do treat her like your sister only when it's convenient, just like she said. Tomosane: Shut it! Hasaki: Are you talking to Yuki-san in secret again? Tomosane: I-It's not a s-secret or anything important like that! Yuki: Really? It's not important how you think of Hasaki-chan? Hasaki: Oh, that probably isn't important to Tomo Nii-san at all. Tomosane: Th-That's not what I meant. Yuki: Oh, now you made Hasaki-chan mad again, Tomosane. Tomosane: It's your fault! Hasaki: Haa... I don't care anymore. Tomosane: Okay, I'm getting out now! Yuki: Wait a second. You have to use conditioner too! Tomosane: What the hell is that? Hasaki: Oh, was this yours, Yuki-san? Yuki: That's right. Hasaki: Is that a good brand? Yuki: I think so. It had good reviews online. Hasaki: It must be really expensive. Yuki: Wanna try it? Hasaki: Huh? Can I? Yuki: Sure, I don't mind. Tomosane: Who cares about that? Let me get out of here already! Hasaki: I care. Be quiet, Tomo Nii-san. Hasaki: How much of this should I use? Especially this tube of treatment. Yuki: Do you want me to do it for you? Hasaki: Huh? Tomosane: Are you dumb? You and I look the same to Hasaki. There's no way she's okay with that. Hasaki: Yuki-san, would you? Yuki: Yeah, sure. Tomosane: Why are you ignoring me? Why are you saying yes?! Hasaki: You're awfully annoying, Tomo Nii-san. Don't butt into our conversation, please. Yuki circled around behind Hasaki. Well, I guess it's better this way since I don't have to worry about seeing anything I shouldn't. Yuki: This should be enough conditioner for your hair, I think. Hasaki: Oh, that's about how much shampoo I use, too. Yuki: Yeah, it's about as thick as normal shampoo, so I'm not surprised. Hasaki: All right, will you please? Yuki: Yeah. Tomosane: Ah?! Wh-What?! When Yuki's fingers touched Hasaki's head, my fingers caressed her hair. Tomosane: Y-Yuki, what are you― Yuki: Come on, brothers and sisters should get along once in a while. Now put about a finger-sized bit of treatment in your palm and rub it on evenly. Tomosane: What do you mean? Yuki: Good night. I'm tired, so I'm gonna dip out. Tomosane: What do you mean, dip out? You can't log out now. Tomosane: Hey! Hasaki: What? Tomosane: U-Um... Hasaki: Yes? Tomosane: Yuki disappeared. Hasaki: Huh? Tomosane: Oh, it's nothing unusual, but... Hasaki: Which means, right now... Tomosane: The two of us are alone. Hasaki: Alone! Hasaki suddenly blushed when she heard that word. No, that doesn't make sense. From her viewpoint, it's just been the two of us from the beginning. But I couldn't say that. I wavered for a moment. Tomosane: U-Um, I don't know how to put on the treatment, so maybe I should just get out now. Hasaki: ... Tomosane: U-Um, I kind of went along with it when Yuki was around, but we really shouldn't be doing this. To be honest, it was bad even when Yuki was around. Yuki just dragged me along with her stupidity, and Hasaki was too stubborn to stop. Tomosane: Ahahaha... I'll get out. When I tried to stand up, Hasaki grabbed my arm. Tomosane: Huh? Hasaki: Finish what you started. What I started... Tomosane: Wait, I don't understand what you mean! Hasaki: Um, I already closed my eyes. I can't open them now. She closed her eyes, so she can't open them now? That doesn't really make sense. I guess there are a lot of shampoos out there that sting if you get them in your eyes. But... Tomosane: No, but... Hasaki: I-I'm just your little sister, after all. What's the problem? And besides, you already saw me naked... Tomosane: Oh, uh... For the record, I did my best to not look. Hasaki: Th-Then keep doing your best and it'll be fine. It won't be fine at all. Yeah, this doesn't even make sense anymore. Why am I taking a bath with Hasaki, and why do I have to wash her hair? Besides... Truthfully, I shouldn't be alone with Hasaki like this. Even if she is my sister, two people of our age can't be naked and alone together. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san! Tomosane: Y-Yeah... At Hasaki's urging, I continued to apply the conditioner and other hair products to Hasaki's scalp. Sadly enough, it was a lot easier than I expected once I got started. Yuki's experience was still in my body. Hasaki: Ahahaha... You're pretty good at this, Tomo Nii-san. Have you done this for Yuki-san before? Tomosane: No. That's never happened, ever. We share the same body, so I have most of the same skills and experiences that she does. Hasaki: I see. Tomosane: Yeah, and Mamiya Takuji should be able to do everything that we can do. Hasaki: Hmm... Then you know how to put on the treatment too. Tomosane: Hey, wait! Hasaki: Please put on the treatment too. Tomosane: U-Um... Tomosane: Huh?! Hasaki grabbed my hand. Her hand was small, soft... and very warm. And it was... Trembling. ... Tomosane: What's wrong, Hasaki? Hasaki: No, it's nothing... I knew right away that Hasaki was crying. Not from her voice. And of course, I couldn't see her face from behind... But somehow, I knew right away that Hasaki was crying. Hasaki: I think I know... why you always push me away, Tomo Nii-san. Hasaki: But that's selfish. Hasaki: You think that if you push me away, we won't ever grow closer... but you're wrong. She didn't say it directly. But I could tell she was blaming me. She didn't blame me because I was going to disappear, but rather, because I pushed her away to avoid growing closer to her. No, because I tried to avoid growing closer to her... but still did. Hasaki: I don't know... what will happen to you or Yuki in the future. Hasaki: Even if I did know... there's nothing I can do about it. Hasaki: But there is something I do know for sure... Tomosane: Hasaki... Hasaki: So... Hasaki: The treatment! Tomosane: Huh? Hasaki: At least do that for me. Th-This is really embarrassing, you know! Tomosane: Huh? E-Embarrassing? Hasaki: O-Of course it is! Tomosane: B-But you were the one who came barging in, and you took off your swimsuit... Hasaki: B-But that was... Oh, shut up! Sometimes a girl has to do things that are embarrassing! She fiercely spat out those words. A girl has to do things that are embarrassing... Is that true? I don't really understand, but I think that might be true. Hasaki: Wh-What kind of person wouldn't be embarrassed about being seen naked? Tomosane: Uh, an exhibitionist, maybe? Hasaki: Don't lump me in with those people! Tomosane: Oh, uh... Sorry. Uh... Somehow we're getting off topic. Hasaki: Did you think I wasn't embarrassed about this? Tomosane: Then why did you do it? Hasaki: I-I told you, sometimes you have to do things like this. That's why. Um... It's kind of like how sometimes a nuclear meltdown can happen even when it's supposed to be impossible for the reactor to malfunction! It's just like that! No, uh... I don't think it's like that at all. Hasaki: Anyway, you can wash out the conditioner now. Tomosane: Oh, sure... Hasaki: Ahhh... That feels good... Wow, my hair is so soft. Tomosane: Yeah... When the conditioner was in her hair, it felt nice and slippery, but once I washed the conditioner out it changed to a soft, silky feeling. Ooh... This is totally different from the feeling of a guy's hair. Or maybe that's because she's still so young? She looks a lot younger than she actually is. That must be because of her Mamiya blood. Hasaki: Keep going. Tomosane: A-All right... There was no point resisting at this point. I put a little bit in my palm just like Yuki told me and rubbed it into Hasaki's hair. This "treatment" stuff was more viscous than shampoo or conditioner, like paste. Hasaki: Ah... It feels funny. Tomosane: This is designed for use on people's hair, right? It kind of reminds me of something else. Hasaki: Oh, that's because it comes in a tube. It's different from the shampoo or conditioner. Tomosane: What do you usually use, Hasaki? Hasaki: Hm? Probably the same thing you use. Just shampoo and conditioner. I've been interested in these bottles in the bathroom for a while now, but I never knew how to use the treatment or anything like that. It was just like the shampoo and conditioner, but someone who didn't know that might have thought it was supposed to go on your face. Makeup remover has about the same consistency as this stuff, I think. Tomosane: I'm gonna rinse it out now. Hasaki: Huh? Already? Tomosane: Yeah, you're supposed to wash this out right away. I gently rinsed the treatment out of her hair. It says that I can just wash it out like normal, but apparently it can cause a rash if someone has weak skin, so I was extra careful as I rinsed her hair with water. After it all rinsed out, her hair was even softer than before. Hasaki: Wow, this is amazing! Tomosane: Haa... Good for you. Hasaki: Yeah! Hasaki cheerfully turned toward me. And because of where I was standing, she turned to face my... Hasaki: Ah― I could tell she was about to scream, and I prepared myself in case she was about to hit me in a very delicate area. Hasaki: Ah... Tomosane: H-Hasaki! Hasaki fainted on the spot. Tomosane: H-Hasaki! Tomosane: Hey, you! Hasaki: Wait... what? Tomosane: Phew... You're awake now? Hasaki: Uh, I was... in the bathroom. Tomosane: That's right. You fainted. Hasaki: Oh, I see... Tomosane: You could at least act surprised... Jeez. Hasaki: ... Tomosane: What? Hasaki: Oh, uh... If I fainted, then... Tomosane: Yeah... Uh, I tried not to look, so... Hasaki: These are your pajamas. Tomosane: I don't know where you keep your underwear... and I couldn't put those on you with my eyes closed, so I just put my pajamas on you. Hasaki: Oh, you're right. I'm not wearing any underwear. Tomosane: Th-Those just came out of the wash, so you can wear them for now. They're not dirty or anything. Hasaki: Why would your pajamas be dirty? Tomosane: Well, they would be dirty if I was wearing them. Hasaki: But you were saying it like your pajamas were usually dirty. Tomosane: Oh, uh, I just thought you wouldn't want to wear your brother's pajamas. Hasaki: ... I thought she was about to argue with me again, but she gave me a big smile. Hasaki: Not at all. I like how they smell like you. Tomosane: ... Tomosane: Wait, what do you mean? Hasaki: Exactly what I said... Tomosane: Haa... Okay, now get to sleep. You can have my bed. Hasaki: Oh, this is your room. Tomosane: I couldn't go into your room, could I? Besides, I was rushing, so I just carried you into my room since I know where everything is in here. Hasaki: Oh... Tomosane: Oh, don't move yet. You might still be a bit anemic, so don't move. Just get some rest. Hasaki: Huh? What about you? Tomosane: I'll sleep on the couch. Hasaki: Wait, Tomo Nii-san. Tomosane: What? Hasaki: I might feel sick later tonight. You know, if the blood vessels in your brain burst, you don't have symptoms right away. Tomosane: Haa... I don't think anyone in our family has ever died of a stroke. Hasaki: I might be the first. Tomosane: So what do you want me to do about it? Hasaki: Let's sleep together. Tomosane: You know... I was about to give her the usual excuse, but... For some reason, I stopped myself. Maybe her words plucked on one of my heartstrings. Tomosane: I think that if I push you away, we won't ever grow closer, but... I'm wrong. Hasaki: Ah... Tomosane: It's nothing. Well, okay. I wouldn't want you wetting the bed, now would I? Hasaki: Hey, I don't wet the bed. Besides, there's nothing you could do if I did! Tomosane: Really? I could find a way to dry it so no one else found out. Hasaki: I could do that myself. Besides, I don't wet the bed! Tomosane: Oh. Good to know. That night, Hasaki and I slept in the same bed. It felt kind of nostalgic. Somewhere in my forgotten memories... no, in Mamiya's forgotten memories, something like this must've happened before. I'm sure of it. Tomosane: That's not all. Hasaki: Wh-What do you mean, that's not all? Tomosane: You're my little sister, so I have to protect you. Hasaki: Protect me? Tomosane: That's right. Yuki does too. We both have to protect you... as your big brother, and as your father too. Tomosane: That's the reason why we're here today. Yuki: I see. That would make me the big sister, and the mother too. Tomosane: You look like a man from the outside, though. Yuki: That's not true. Just look at these melons! Tomosane: Shut up, and don't rub those things on me! Hasaki: What are you doing, Yuki-san? Yuki: A-Ahahaha, sorry. Hasaki: But I think Tomo Nii-san is right... I don't think I'm really happy with that answer though. Tomosane: Why? Hasaki: Oh, uh, nothing... But now I know that you're thinking of what's best for me, Tomo Nii-san... I know that now. Hasaki: But... Tomosane: But? Yuki: That was a pretty good answer, but I don't think it's the one Hasaki-chan wanted to hear. Tomosane: But it's the truth. Now that our father is dead and our mother is catatonic, who else is going to protect Hasaki? Tomosane: I'm thinking of what's best for Hasaki, just like you told me to do, Yuki. That's what I have to do to protect Hasaki. Those were my genuine feelings. I said it partially because I wanted to keep my distance from Hasaki, but... those were still my most genuine feelings. Hasaki: Hahahaha... I can't believe you would say that now. Tomosane: Hm? Hasaki: Nothing... It's nothing. Really. I'm just a bother, huh? Tomosane: What are you saying? Hasaki: Okay, I'm getting out. I can't wash my body with this swimsuit on, anyway. Hasaki: And I wouldn't want to take it off in front of you, even if you are my brother. Tomosane: All right, I'm about done. Hasaki: Huh? Go ahead, take your time. Tomosane: No, I already washed my body. Right, Yuki? Yuki: Well... Okay, I guess. Yuki: I'd like to spend a bit more time washing, personally. Hasaki: Huh? Yuki: Oh, nothing, nothing. Tomosane: All right... We'll take our time. Hasaki: Y-Yeah... Yuki: I never thought you would say that. Tomosane: It's not like I lied to her. Yuki: Well, I think you wanted to keep your distance from her, but I suppose you didn't lie to her. Tomosane: Yeah... It was the truth. Yuki: Well, I understand what you said about protecting Hasaki. Tomosane: I don't have much time left, though. Yuki: You keep saying that. Tomosane: It's the truth. Yuki: How do you know it's the truth? Tomosane: More importantly... Yuki. Yuki: What? Tomosane: I really don't know where to look, so could you put on some clothes? Yuki: No way. I like to be naked after I get out of the bath. Tomosane: I don't care what you like! Put on some fucking clothes! Yuki: Oh, come on. I'm giving you some fan service. Tomosane: That's what we call an unwelcome favor. Yuki: Jeez... Oh fine. I'm at my limit anyway. Tomosane: Your limit? Yuki: Oh, sorry. I know we're in the middle of a conversation, but... Tomosane: Yuki? Yuki suddenly disappeared. She instantly disappeared, like her batteries suddenly ran out. Tomosane: She's overdoing it. Tomosane: Oh well... Not my problem. Hasaki: I-It is too your problem, Tomo Nii-san! Tomosane: Yuki, I'm getting out. Yuki: Huh? You haven't washed your hair yet. Tomosane: Shut up! I left the bathroom in a hurry. When I left, I turned and saw that Yuki had already disappeared. Tomosane: She was overdoing it. Why would she force herself to stay for something dumb like this?
Tomosane: Hey, you! Hasaki: Move over. I need to wash myself too. Tomosane: Oh, but... there's only one seat. Hasaki: I'll just sit on the floor, then. Wh-What's going on here? Tomosane: M-Maybe I should get out now... Hasaki: You haven't washed yourself at all. Tomosane: Oh, I just like to take quick baths is all. Yuki: I like to take long ones. Hasaki: See? Tomosane: Yuki, why'd you say that?! Yuki: What's it matter? You're not turned on by your little sister, now are you? Tomosane: It's not a problem of getting turned on or not! Hasaki: Then what's the problem? Yuki: Come on, let's just wash and get it over with. You haven't washed your hair yet, either. Jeez... Maybe Yuki doesn't mind because she's a woman, but... Yuki: What? You can't control yourself when she's sitting right beside you? Tomosane: Y-Yuki! Yuki: You don't think of Hasaki-chan as just a sister, do you? Tomosane: Of course I do! Yuki: Really? Yuki: You really do treat her like your sister only when it's convenient, just like she said. Tomosane: Shut it! Hasaki: Are you talking to Yuki-san in secret again? Tomosane: I-It's not a s-secret or anything important like that! Yuki: Really? It's not important how you think of Hasaki-chan? Hasaki: Oh, that probably isn't important to Tomo Nii-san at all. Tomosane: Th-That's not what I meant. Yuki: Oh, now you made Hasaki-chan mad again, Tomosane. Tomosane: It's your fault! Hasaki: Haa... I don't care anymore. Tomosane: Okay, I'm getting out now! Yuki: Wait a second. You have to use conditioner too! Tomosane: What the hell is that? Hasaki: Oh, was this yours, Yuki-san? Yuki: That's right. Hasaki: Is that a good brand? Yuki: I think so. It had good reviews online. Hasaki: It must be really expensive. Yuki: Wanna try it? Hasaki: Huh? Can I? Yuki: Sure, I don't mind. Tomosane: Who cares about that? Let me get out of here already! Hasaki: I care. Be quiet, Tomo Nii-san. Hasaki: How much of this should I use? Especially this tube of treatment. Yuki: Do you want me to do it for you? Hasaki: Huh? Tomosane: Are you dumb? You and I look the same to Hasaki. There's no way she's okay with that. Hasaki: Yuki-san, would you? Yuki: Yeah, sure. Tomosane: Why are you ignoring me? Why are you saying yes?! Hasaki: You're awfully annoying, Tomo Nii-san. Don't butt into our conversation, please. Yuki circled around behind Hasaki. Well, I guess it's better this way since I don't have to worry about seeing anything I shouldn't. Yuki: This should be enough conditioner for your hair, I think. Hasaki: Oh, that's about how much shampoo I use, too. Yuki: Yeah, it's about as thick as normal shampoo, so I'm not surprised. Hasaki: All right, will you please? Yuki: Yeah. Tomosane: Ah?! Wh-What?! When Yuki's fingers touched Hasaki's head, my fingers caressed her hair. Tomosane: Y-Yuki, what are you― Yuki: Come on, brothers and sisters should get along once in a while. Now put about a finger-sized bit of treatment in your palm and rub it on evenly. Tomosane: What do you mean? Yuki: Good night. I'm tired, so I'm gonna dip out. Tomosane: What do you mean, dip out? You can't log out now. Tomosane: Hey! Hasaki: What? Tomosane: U-Um... Hasaki: Yes? Tomosane: Yuki disappeared. Hasaki: Huh? Tomosane: Oh, it's nothing unusual, but... Hasaki: Which means, right now... Tomosane: The two of us are alone. Hasaki: Alone! Hasaki suddenly blushed when she heard that word. No, that doesn't make sense. From her viewpoint, it's just been the two of us from the beginning. But I couldn't say that. I wavered for a moment. Tomosane: U-Um, I don't know how to put on the treatment, so maybe I should just get out now. Hasaki: ... Tomosane: U-Um, I kind of went along with it when Yuki was around, but we really shouldn't be doing this. To be honest, it was bad even when Yuki was around. Yuki just dragged me along with her stupidity, and Hasaki was too stubborn to stop. Tomosane: Ahahaha... I'll get out. When I tried to stand up, Hasaki grabbed my arm. Tomosane: Huh? Hasaki: Finish what you started. What I started... Tomosane: Wait, I don't understand what you mean! Hasaki: Um, I already closed my eyes. I can't open them now. She closed her eyes, so she can't open them now? That doesn't really make sense. I guess there are a lot of shampoos out there that sting if you get them in your eyes. But... Tomosane: No, but... Hasaki: I-I'm just your little sister, after all. What's the problem? And besides, you already saw me naked... Tomosane: Oh, uh... For the record, I did my best to not look. Hasaki: Th-Then keep doing your best and it'll be fine. It won't be fine at all. Yeah, this doesn't even make sense anymore. Why am I taking a bath with Hasaki, and why do I have to wash her hair? Besides... Truthfully, I shouldn't be alone with Hasaki like this. Even if she is my sister, two people of our age can't be naked and alone together. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san! Tomosane: Y-Yeah... At Hasaki's urging, I continued to apply the conditioner and other hair products to Hasaki's scalp. Sadly enough, it was a lot easier than I expected once I got started. Yuki's experience was still in my body. Hasaki: Ahahaha... You're pretty good at this, Tomo Nii-san. Have you done this for Yuki-san before? Tomosane: No. That's never happened, ever. We share the same body, so I have most of the same skills and experiences that she does. Hasaki: I see. Tomosane: Yeah, and Mamiya Takuji should be able to do everything that we can do. Hasaki: Hmm... Then you know how to put on the treatment too. Tomosane: Hey, wait! Hasaki: Please put on the treatment too. Tomosane: U-Um... Tomosane: Huh?! Hasaki grabbed my hand. Her hand was small, soft... and very warm. And it was... Trembling. ... Tomosane: What's wrong, Hasaki? Hasaki: No, it's nothing... I knew right away that Hasaki was crying. Not from her voice. And of course, I couldn't see her face from behind... But somehow, I knew right away that Hasaki was crying. Hasaki: I think I know... why you always push me away, Tomo Nii-san. Hasaki: But that's selfish. Hasaki: You think that if you push me away, we won't ever grow closer... but you're wrong. She didn't say it directly. But I could tell she was blaming me. She didn't blame me because I was going to disappear, but rather, because I pushed her away to avoid growing closer to her. No, because I tried to avoid growing closer to her... but still did. Hasaki: I don't know... what will happen to you or Yuki in the future. Hasaki: Even if I did know... there's nothing I can do about it. Hasaki: But there is something I do know for sure... Tomosane: Hasaki... Hasaki: So... Hasaki: The treatment! Tomosane: Huh? Hasaki: At least do that for me. Th-This is really embarrassing, you know! Tomosane: Huh? E-Embarrassing? Hasaki: O-Of course it is! Tomosane: B-But you were the one who came barging in, and you took off your swimsuit... Hasaki: B-But that was... Oh, shut up! Sometimes a girl has to do things that are embarrassing! She fiercely spat out those words. A girl has to do things that are embarrassing... Is that true? I don't really understand, but I think that might be true. Hasaki: Wh-What kind of person wouldn't be embarrassed about being seen naked? Tomosane: Uh, an exhibitionist, maybe? Hasaki: Don't lump me in with those people! Tomosane: Oh, uh... Sorry. Uh... Somehow we're getting off topic. Hasaki: Did you think I wasn't embarrassed about this? Tomosane: Then why did you do it? Hasaki: I-I told you, sometimes you have to do things like this. That's why. Um... It's kind of like how sometimes a nuclear meltdown can happen even when it's supposed to be impossible for the reactor to malfunction! It's just like that! No, uh... I don't think it's like that at all. Hasaki: Anyway, you can wash out the conditioner now. Tomosane: Oh, sure... Hasaki: Ahhh... That feels good... Wow, my hair is so soft. Tomosane: Yeah... When the conditioner was in her hair, it felt nice and slippery, but once I washed the conditioner out it changed to a soft, silky feeling. Ooh... This is totally different from the feeling of a guy's hair. Or maybe that's because she's still so young? She looks a lot younger than she actually is. That must be because of her Mamiya blood. Hasaki: Keep going. Tomosane: A-All right... There was no point resisting at this point. I put a little bit in my palm just like Yuki told me and rubbed it into Hasaki's hair. This "treatment" stuff was more viscous than shampoo or conditioner, like paste. Hasaki: Ah... It feels funny. Tomosane: This is designed for use on people's hair, right? It kind of reminds me of something else. Hasaki: Oh, that's because it comes in a tube. It's different from the shampoo or conditioner. Tomosane: What do you usually use, Hasaki? Hasaki: Hm? Probably the same thing you use. Just shampoo and conditioner. I've been interested in these bottles in the bathroom for a while now, but I never knew how to use the treatment or anything like that. It was just like the shampoo and conditioner, but someone who didn't know that might have thought it was supposed to go on your face. Makeup remover has about the same consistency as this stuff, I think. Tomosane: I'm gonna rinse it out now. Hasaki: Huh? Already? Tomosane: Yeah, you're supposed to wash this out right away. I gently rinsed the treatment out of her hair. It says that I can just wash it out like normal, but apparently it can cause a rash if someone has weak skin, so I was extra careful as I rinsed her hair with water. After it all rinsed out, her hair was even softer than before. Hasaki: Wow, this is amazing! Tomosane: Haa... Good for you. Hasaki: Yeah! Hasaki cheerfully turned toward me. And because of where I was standing, she turned to face my... Hasaki: Ah― I could tell she was about to scream, and I prepared myself in case she was about to hit me in a very delicate area. Hasaki: Ah... Tomosane: H-Hasaki! Hasaki fainted on the spot.
......... ...... ... Tomosane: ... Tomosane: Huh? Tomosane: The sky? Tomosane: Where am I? Tomosane: Building B? And it's afternoon? Tomosane: I... What happened? I'm confused... This hasn't happened... in a while. Tomosane: I was out for a while that time. It was just my intuition, but I knew it right away. That my consciousness had been gone for an unusually long time. The longer it's gone, the greater the reaction when my consciousness returns. I could tell that quite a long time had passed. But when I looked at the time on my cell phone, surprise turned into horror. Tomosane: July 10th... 12:05... It's been a long time since I've experienced a gap that big... No, this must be the first time. I slowly followed my memory back to the last time I was awake. ... The last thing I remembered was that day when we were in the bathroom together. The date was July 6th. It's been 4 days since then... I'd never experienced such a large leap forward in time before. Tomosane: Why hasn't my consciousness come to the surface in such a long time? Tomosane: I'm shocked... No, this is terrifying. Tomosane: I've experienced leaps forward in time before, but I'm shocked that it could last this long. Tomosane: Is this how Yuki feels? She was just a bit surprised when it happened to her, like it was no big deal. I can't believe she could experience something like that and still act like it's nothing. That woman is something else. When I lose consciousness for this long, I get the feeling I'm being pushed out. Like I'm being forcibly driven away. When I finally awoke, I felt like I had just woken from a long dream... and I felt utterly bewildered. It must have been even worse for Yuki. Even worse... How much worse could it get? I was only gone for four days. It's not like I lost several weeks like Yuki did. If I'm this bewildered after four days, how bad would it be after four weeks? I can't even imagine it. Would I even be able to reconstruct my consciousness after that long? Or would my consciousness still be scattered and lost when I woke up? After experiencing this today... That state is closer to nonexistence than a simple pause. There was a strong force, so strong that I was surprised I could even lift my consciousness to the surface. And that force... Tomosane: That force wasn't suppressing my consciousness... That force tried to erase it. Tomosane: ... That's right. Tomosane: Is that it? Yuki, you... I'm such a fool. I never realized that truth before. But now that I think about it, it's obvious. That's not a pause in our consciousness. Tomosane: Yuki was already... being erased. It's impossible for her personality to just coincidentally be paused for such a long time. Her personality was already being erased. That's why the new, disconnected personality "Minakami Yuki" was created. The new "Minakami Yuki," who perceives Hasaki as two fictional twins, was only created once Yuki was erased. Which means Yuki is already an unnecessary personality. She was nothing more than a hindrance for the creation of the new Yuki personality. That's why she seemed so rushed. Tomosane: Yuki, that dummy... She said she was forcibly keeping her consciousness on the surface. I didn't think anything about that statement. I understood it as just another piece of the same puzzle. Tomosane: No... This is completely different than before. That's right. Tomosane: Mamiya Takuji is already trying to remove the original Yuki. That's much more than simply stopping her personality for a long time. Mamiya Takuji is forcibly erasing her. Which means the disappearance of Yuki's personality. No, the reverse. Yuki didn't come out of a long pause. She was only holding onto her consciousness after she barely escaped being erased. Somehow, she held onto her consciousness so she could continue to exist. Which means now Yuki is... That dumbass. She was worried about my relationship with Hasaki at the end, huh? Tomosane: Why didn't she say anything? Tomosane: She was already being erased. Tomosane: She only delayed her disappearance by holding onto her consciousness. Why did she try so hard to delay it? Tomosane: Damn it, Yuki. From my perspective, "I" am an existence that will disappear, while "Yuki" is going to remain in this world. But she must've felt the same way. The new "Minakami Yuki" is the one that will remain. The Yuki I know will disappear. She will be erased. Even before me... That's why she wanted to leave Hasaki in my hands, since she knew I would last longer than her. She wanted to leave Hasaki to me, "Yuuki Tomosane," not the new "Minakami Yuki," who is the same and yet completely different from her. She wanted to leave her in my hands. That's why she held onto her consciousness so desperately for those few days. That Yuki was already useless once the new "Minakami Yuki," the one that Mamiya Takuji desired, was born. Rather, she was getting in the way of the new "Minakami Yuki." There's no point in them both existing. Rather, it's only natural for the old Yuki to disappear once the new "Minakami Yuki" is born. Tomosane: Then... what about me? Why was my consciousness stopped for such a long―well, not long compared to Yuki―time? Tomosane: Agh! I could feel Mamiya Takuji's existence. That's strange. He's fated to be erased by me, and yet... His existence is growing even stronger. And it feels like my existence is growing weaker. Tomosane: Ah! I checked my phone again. Tomosane: Today is... That's right! I remembered when I looked at the date again. The day I promised to meet Mamiya Takuji had already passed. The day I was supposed to meet him again... Tomosane: Fuck! Tomosane: I have to erase him. For some reason, I had a worrying presentiment. I couldn't understand. Why would I feel like that? My heart was steeped in uncertainty. Tomosane: Haa, haa... I tuned into the channel of Mamiya's existence. The place was right in front of Takashima Zakuro's classroom. I didn't have a solid reason, but my intuition told me that if I aligned our channels here, I could meet him. No, it wasn't my intuition or anything supernatural like that. Mamiya's consciousness appears in this place. So I can't miss that moment. I can't let him trade places with me. I have to hold onto my own consciousness. If my hypothesis is correct, I could simply let myself be pushed out of consciousness without meeting Mamiya at all. Tomosane: ... Mamiya's body came into sight hazily. He was peeking into the classroom from the hallway. I think this classroom was next to ours. This is Takashima Zakuro's classroom. I wonder if Mamiya Takuji has some sort of relationship with Takashima Zakuro too, just like Yuki did. No... That's not important right now. Here he comes. Tomosane: I've been looking for you... Takuji: Our channels weren't quite lined up. Almost there... Takuji: U-Umm... ... There he is. This is kind of anticlimactic. I didn't think I would be able to find him. Tomosane: You promised you'd bring me 50,000 yen. Your time's up. The promise from a week ago. I ordered him to bring me 50,000 yen. I felt uneasy, thinking... What if my consciousness was gone for such a long time because Mamiya Takuji tried to erase me just like Yuki? In the end, Yuki and I only exist in accordance with his will. This man looks weak, but he's the absolute authority, the one who created everything. Yuki and I, the Destroyer and the Harmonizer, were both created through this man's will. Which means, if he changed his mind―for instance, if he's too scared to be erased―then it's possible that he could forcibly erase me. That's why I had chills running down my spine. Mamiya Takuji cowered before me. But I was the one who was truly afraid. Because I could disappear on his mere whim. Tomosane: Hurry up... Give me the money. The money. Takuji: Um, well... Tomosane: Don't tell me you don't have your wallet with you. I can see it in your back pocket. Takuji: Huh? U-Umm... Takuji: Eagh! I braced myself after hitting him. I almost expected to disappear the second I struck him. But that fear didn't come true. He crumpled under my first blow, just like every time before. Nothing changed. Nothing at all. Which means... I should hurt him enough to erase his existence right here and now. Even if he hasn't erased me yet, I should destroy him as soon as I can. Because that's my fated role. Tomosane: Now then, hand it over. Takuji: U-Uh... Okay... Tomosane: What's this? Takuji: Huh? Wh-What do you mean? Tomosane: There's only 27,571 yen here. Takuji: W-Well... Takuji: Ow... Tomosane: You're not going to have a good time if you can't even keep your promises. You're more than 20,000 yen short. Takuji: I-I'm sorry... Tomosane: Oh, no... Takuji: E-Eek. Tomosane: I don't care for your apologies. It's just, it really bothers me when I don't have any money. Disappear! Disappear! Disappear! Disappear! Disappear! I prayed as I punched him. As I punched him, I noticed... something was weird. Disappear! Disappear! Disappear! Disappear! Disappear! Tomosane: Ah! Mamiya's eyes glimmered for a moment. No, I must've been imagining it. He was the same frightened child as always. There was no change. But I instinctively stopped my fist. Takuji: I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry... Tomosane: Tch... For some reason, my entire body was covered with a sheen of cold sweat. He was crying and begging for mercy at my feet, but the one whose heart was truly frozen with fear... Tomosane: Damn it. It's me. Shiroyama: Ah... Numada: Oh, Mamiya-kun. Iinuma: Sup? Tomosane: ... Shiroyama: Gah! Iinuma: Why? There was no reason. It was just an outburst of anger. Anger at myself, for being afraid of Mamiya Takuji. Tomosane: Just now... 'Oh crap' was written on your face, like you didn't want to see me. Shiroyama: Th-That's... Tomosane: I don't know why, but I'm not too fond of excuses. Iinuma: Mamiya-kun, I don't think he meant it that way... Tomosane: What? Iinuma, are you talking back to me? Iinuma: N-Not at all, but... Tomosane: If you're going to disobey me, you'd better be prepared to kill me. You know that, right? Iinuma: Y-Yes... That's... Tomosane: Well, whatever. Tomosane: Actually, didn't you know someone who was growing some leaf, Numada? Numada: A-About that... He got caught by the police. Tomosane: Really? He got caught? Shiroyama: Yes, and... he snitched on a lot of other people. Tomosane: So you're going to get caught too? Numada: No... I think I'm probably safe, but... Tomosane: Anyway, if you do get caught, don't tell them about me. Otherwise, I'll kill you when I get out. Numada: I'm not a snitch. Besides, I'm not going to get caught... Probably. Tomosane: Hmm. Well, keep it up then. This conversation is pointless. I'm only running away from Mamiya Takuji. Shiroyama doesn't matter right now. None of these guys matter at all. Mamiya Takuji's destruction... that is my raison d'etre. And yet... Tomosane: And as for you, Mamiya-kun, I'll wait till next week. Get me the rest of the money. Tomosane: If you don't, it won't just be painful. Takuji: O-Okay... Our voice was shaking with fear. Not his voice, mine. Tomosane: Alright, then... Does anyone have a cigarette? Shiroyama: Ah, you want some of my Sevens? Tomosane: Sevens? Isn't that the stuff that smells like shit? Numada: Yeah, it is. Shiroyama: What? Really? I like it. Tomosane: Whatever, that works. Numada: You always like the offbeat brands. What was it? Never... Neverland, I think? Tomosane: It's not like I want to smoke something weird like that. It's just what's always in my pocket, so I smoke it. Numada: What? Is your pocket an extradimensional portal? Tomosane: I wish. Then I'd have as much as I wanted. Though I'd rather it gave me money instead. Shiroyama: Of course. Even when I smoked, I couldn't stop trembling. I'm being completely eaten up by Mamiya Takuji. What's going on? I have to finish Mamiya Takuji soon. That's supposed to be my role. Tomosane: Agh! Shiroyama: Huh? Are you heading home? Tomosane: I just wanted to go to the station. Numada: You're gonna ditch all your classes? Tomosane: Dunno. Anyway, I want to get some coffee at that cafe, Spring Coffee, in front of the station. Numada: Ahahaha, see ya later. Tomosane: ...! I felt dizzy. The world twisted and warped. My vision blurred. Tomosane: What am I doing? I have to finish him. Finish Mamiya Takuji. "Are you going to kill him again?" Tomosane: Huh? I thought I heard someone's voice. But I faded out before I could figure out whose it was. My consciousness was forcibly ended. By the Creator, Mamiya Takuji.
The moment I awoke. The moment time began to move. Everything felt distant. Is it that way for everyone? Or just me? What was the first thing that came into sight when I awoke? I always try to remember that. What is the scenery of awakening... I'm trying to remember that. And I'm trying to remember... who I am. My name... My sex... My family... My... It all came together in an instant. A drop of water fell in the distance. The sound of a drop of water breaking somewhere in the distance. That which is broken imparts its moisture upon the earth. Only through breaking can it grant its blessing. Because once broken, the blessing is able to soak into the earth. Where is this... The confusion after awakening. Doesn't everyone feel it? Or is it a confusion that only I feel? Tomosane: Ow... Tomosane: This is... Tomosane: Mamiya Takuji's hideout. Agh... Vertigo. And my head hurts. This feeling again? I took the cell phone out of my pocket. Tomosane: ...I thought so. It happened again... No, it wasn't as long this time, but it's still been two whole days. Tomosane: July 12th... 10:30 p.m. Tomosane: Damn it. This only happened because I was afraid of him last time. Last time was four days. This time, two days. I didn't exist for a second during that entire time. These leaps forward in time are completely different from what I've experienced in the past. Tomosane: Ah... I was hit with a splitting headache. Tomosane: Damn it... Is this from sleeping on the concrete? No, that's not it. This headache is from my disordered consciousness. The forcible erasure is happening. The same thing Yuki experienced. No... It's weaker than what Yuki experienced. Unlike Yuki, I could easily be erased if he wanted. My will isn't nearly as strong as his. Which must mean... He's not seriously trying to destroy me yet? Tomosane: Either way, I'm in the palm of his hand. I'm no different than an ant under the magnifying glass. Tomosane: For now... I looked around. It was the same depressing place as always. It was depressing, just like his mental state. I couldn't fathom the depths of that darkness. Tomosane: Two full days, huh? Tomosane: It's scary that my discontinuity could come to this point. Scary... No, it's more like isolation. Tomosane: I see... Isolation and fear... The feelings one must experience just before death. Tomosane: I'm fearful of my own death? Tomosane: Ugh... When the night breeze blew on my body, I realized how incredibly fatigued I was. He must've been running. My feet feel really heavy. Tomosane: Hm? Somehow I hadn't noticed that there was a paper bag in my hand. There were CDs or something inside it. But why didn't I notice before? It should've been in the way when I climbed the underground ladder. Yet I carefully held onto this bag the entire time. My disordered consciousness... Maybe it was this confusion that made me do that? Or maybe Mamiya Takuji made me do it through some sort of compulsive power? Tomosane: Ah! I tried to throw the bag away... But... Tomosane: No... If it was Mamiya Takuji's compulsion, I wouldn't have noticed it halfway through like this. It was a weaker force that made me carry this bag this entire time. A force that seemed on the verge of disappearing. Tomosane: Yuki's power... Or maybe a simple coincidence caused by my confusion. Tomosane: Yuki or Mamiya must've bought this CD. If Yuki bought it... Then perhaps I shouldn't throw it away. Tomosane: Haa... If only I could understand what Mamiya was thinking when I was unconscious. But I couldn't expect something so convenient to happen. Tomosane: Maybe if I tried harder... But I didn't know what I was supposed to do in order to accomplish that. I didn't even know what it would feel like if I did it successfully. Tomosane: The closest thing I can think of is... if a sleeping person could understand what was happening around them while they were asleep. Unfortunately, I couldn't really understand that state of mind. Maybe it's a power she attained through her strong will to escape erasure. Tomosane: A strong will... Really, now I think... Tomosane: I can't do anything. I'm useless. I'm nowhere near as good as Yuki. My headache was going away. And my thoughts were starting to line up too. Tomosane: I should go home for now. The front of Mamiya's house... It felt somehow nostalgic. I felt like Urashima Tarou, even though I was only gone for six days. Tomosane: I wonder if Hasaki is home. The lights were all off. Hasaki must be at the bar today. Tomosane: Hasaki... I wanted to see Hasaki. I wanted to talk to Hasaki. I wished Hasaki was home. Tomosane: What's wrong with you, Tomosane? Tomosane: You're getting sentimental, like a woman or something. Anxiety... My head was full of a sort of anxiety I had never experienced before. Hasaki... Yuki... No, it doesn't matter who. Anyone I know... Maybe if I went to Hakushuukyou... I wanted to go. Even though I had no reason to go to Hakushuukyou. A gap of four days... and then another two days after that. Hasaki hadn't seen me for six days. Almost an entire week. She must be worried about me... I should go see Hasaki. I could at least give her a bit of peace of mind. Tomosane: ... No... There was something I had to do first. I had to check what happened during those days of nothingness. I had to check my surroundings. The house... I wanted to at least see if there was any information to be found in my room. Of course, no one was home. And there were no major changes. It was only six days... Just six days. A lot could've happened in that much time, but it's also possible that nothing changed at all. I threw the paper bag on the sofa and turned on the lights in the living room. Tomosane: Huh? That was... Yuki... When I turned on the lights, Yuki appeared before me and went upstairs. Not walking, but... as if she was sliding. Tomosane: Yuki... Tomosane: ... The room was pitch black. Yuki stood there, but the light had gone out of her eyes. Her gaze wasn't focused on anything... She just stared blankly. Tomosane: Yuki... I called out to her, but there was no response. I felt goosebumps on my skin. What I'm feeling right now is... Utter terror. Fear? Am I afraid? Like a puppet suspended in midair, Yuki simply stood there. Like a picture, or even just a reflection on the wall. No presence. Just an image projected on the wall. Tomosane: Yuki! I turned on the lights. The faint fluorescent light illuminated the room. And in the light, Yuki stood sentry, like the spirit of a lingering ghost. Tomosane: Hey... I tried to touch her, but... Tomosane: Huh? My hand went right through her. As if there was never anything there to begin with... Tomosane: I can only look? An illusion without substance... Yuki: Phew... I'm pooped. Tomosane: Y-Yuki! Yuki: Huh? Tomosane: I-I was really shocked. My hand went through your body just now. It's like you're a ghost or something. Yuki: Where did I put that CD I bought? Um, I think I had it when I came home. Yuki: Oh, right. I left it on the sofa downstairs. ... Tomosane: This is... That's right. This means... The fear I'd felt since I woke up... This is why. I was afraid of this. That's why the fear disappeared just now. The fear... It turned into despair. And the despair... Tomosane: I see... That means I... The despair turned into sadness. I heard someone coming up the stairs. Before they came into view... I prepared myself for the shock. Before those footsteps reached the room, I braced myself. I dispelled all the emotions that were rising up within me before I had to look at her face again. I dispelled the sadness. Now's not the time to be sentimental. Just like Yuki did before, now it's my turn to do what I can. Yuki's footsteps. I was afraid to see Yuki again. The sight of the new "Minakami Yuki" crushed me. But right now, I can't let myself be defeated by something like that. Tomosane: Accept the truth... The entire truth. I knew this would happen. Everything can move forward only as they were intended to. Yuki: Why did I leave this in the living room anyway? I should've just brought it up to my room, since it's mine. I'm so silly. Tomosane: ... I felt like I would be crushed when I heard her voice. The same appearance. The same voice, and yet... The person before me wasn't Yuki. Her world didn't even overlap with mine. Tomosane: I promised that I would stay strong once this new Yuki came back... Tomosane: I promised that I would accept the truth... Even I was shocked by my own weakness. But... Yuki: I haven't walked home with Kagami and Tsukasa in a long time. I wonder why they were out there. ... Tomosane: Did she just say... they walked home together? I tried to understand the situation. I killed my emotions. I focused solely on comprehending what was happening in front of me. Tomosane: She said Kagami and Tsukasa, which is what Hasaki looks like to her. Which means this woman was together with Hasaki until now? No, that's impossible. I was definitely the one who walked home. I walked home from Mamiya Takuji's hideout by myself. I didn't see Hasaki. Yuki: Now then... Time for the grand opening. I slowly sat on the bed. Then I observed the woman's actions. The actions of the new "Minakami Yuki," who I was seeing for the first time. Yuki: All right, for today... She opened the paper bag and took out the CD. Tomosane: So it was a CD inside. Yuki: ... Yuki: Huh? The woman was surprised at the CD she bought for some reason. Yuki: What is this? This is an anime soundtrack! Tomosane: Anime? Anime songs, huh? Which means Takuji bought that CD. That must be why she's surprised about the CD she bought. But that means... Yuki: Oh? When she checked the CD name, she looked puzzled. Yuki: The first album from the popular actress... Tomosane: Does that mean... She has fabricated memories? I remember Yuki said there was a possibility that the new Yuki's memories were being overwritten so that she would think she did them. If that CD is an anime soundtrack, then "Minakami Yuki" didn't buy it herself. Mamiya Takuji bought it. Which means that "Minakami Yuki" thinks the memories from today (whether in whole or in part) are her own. And now that I think of it, she didn't react until several minutes after I first saw her. Tomosane: She was like a puppet hanging from her strings. That's probably when her memories were being altered. Her memories were altered just before her consciousness came to the surface. During that short time she probed the other personalities' experiences and rewrote them as her own. No... They weren't "the other personalities' experiences." She rewrote Mamiya Takuji's experiences as her own. Tomosane: But then there's still one more question. Why would she be given memories of buying the CD if they're only going to cause inconsistencies? The CD Mamiya Takuji bought was an anime CD. Even if her memory is changed, that fact won't change. But "Minakami Yuki" knew that she bought a CD. If her memories simply told her that she hadn't bought anything, this kind of inconsistency wouldn't occur. Why would her brain fabricate memories that would only cause inconsistencies? Yuki: No, maybe... Yuki: Is this one of Kagami's pranks? I won't forgive her! Minakami Yuki called that fictional person, Kagami, on the phone. There wasn't anyone on the other end. But she talked into the phone as if there was. Tomosane: Haa... I couldn't find an answer to that mystery. I laid down on the bed. Tomosane: I don't get very many chances to be useful, do I? I can't solve anything. ... The ceiling in my room... It looked the same as it always did. Until just recently, it always bugged me how Yuki was always around. But now she couldn't see me at all. Tomosane: Hehehe... That's comical. I never liked having her around before, but... Tomosane: I actually feel a bit lonely now that she's gone. Now that's a surprise. I'm actually lonely without her. I closed my eyes. Tomosane: Fuck! Why am I so weak? Just like that... When I closed my eyes, tears ran down my cheeks. They must've welled up in my eyes before, and then they overflowed when I closed them. This is the worst... This isn't like me. Tomosane: I knew it would happen. I wasn't supposed to be sad once it happened. Even still... My tears didn't stop. This shouldn't be so sad. This shouldn't be so hard. I didn't think I was such a weak person. I never thought I would cry like this. I knew it would happen. I understood it perfectly, but... My tears didn't stop. Tomosane: Damn it... Well, it's not like anyone's gonna see. Tomosane: I'm not crying out loud. A few tears won't hurt. Silent footsteps approached. Is she going to sleep now? If so, I should go somewhere else. Tomosane: No, I guess that's not necessary... Yuki would just go right through me anyway. To her, I don't even exist. She couldn't see or touch me at all. So... Hug. Tomosane: What? Who... just hugged me? Yuki: You dummy. I could hear you crying. Tomosane: Y-Yuki? Yuki: You dummy. Who else do I look like, Tomosane? Tomosane: B-But you're... Yuki: What are you talking about? You know I'm stubborn. I don't give up that easily, and I never get the hint when someone doesn't want me around. Tomosane: That's not the problem here. Yuki: It is. Yuki: I forcibly inserted the memory of that CD when her consciousness was coming to the surface. I made sure she wouldn't lose Mamiya's memory so that it would cause that inconsistency. Yuki: I knew it would cause an inconsistency if she still had the memory of buying that CD, which would cause a crack in her existence. I bet it all on that CD when I forced that memory in. Tomosane: Oh, but I just happened to bring that CD home. Yuki: I know. You brought it with you because you thought it might be related to me. Tomosane: But that was just a coincidence. You bet on that possibility? Yuki: That was the only possibility I had. Mamiya Takuji's control is too strong. Tomosane: Mamiya Takuji's control... Yuki: You saw how I was until just now. Tomosane: Yeah... Yuki: That's the new me. The 'Minakami Yuki' that Mamiya Takuji wanted. Tomosane: She can't see me at all, huh... Yuki: Sorry. You were by my side the whole time, but I didn't notice at all. Tomosane: But you did notice. Yuki: Ahahaha... But it took so long. Tomosane: What are you talking about? You fought back against the existence that created us and found me. That's really amazing. Yuki: Ehehehe. Been a while since I've heard a compliment from you. You're always telling me I'm a pain in the ass. Tomosane: You dummy. I didn't know you were still resisting having your existence erased. Tomosane: I didn't understand a single thing about how you felt the past few weeks. Yuki: Hehehehe. That's why I was bothering you so much. Tomosane: And I couldn't have imagined... Tomosane: I thought that the new 'Minakami Yuki' would be the same person as you. That's why I tried to leave Hasaki in your hands. Yuki: So what did you think of the new me? Is she prettier than me? Tomosane: You dumbass... This isn't the time for that. Yuki: This is totally the right time to ask. Tomosane: She looks just like you. Even her voice is the same. Yuki: That's right. So you should be fine even if I disappear, right? Tomosane: Dumbass... Tomosane: If I was fine... If I was fine, why would I be crying? Yuki: You cried for my sake? Tomosane: Shut up. Who would cry for you? Yuki: Oh, come on. Why were you crying, then, Tomosane? Tomosane: Shut up. I was just crying... because I was sad... Tomosane: I was just sad that you had disappeared. Yuki: Don't say that. That doesn't sound like you at all. You're gonna make me cry too. Tomosane: Shut up... Not my problem... She's always stubborn. She always acts like she's okay. I'm the cold, heartless person who only believes in violence. Just like Mamiya wanted. I never try to understand the pain of others. I only use them for my own gain. That's the kind of person I was supposed to be... I tried to be... I use polite words when I'm threatening people to emphasize how coldblooded I am. I always take a nasty attitude to push people away. With Yuki... With Hasaki... I push everyone away. The reason is simple. I'm weak and pathetic. I'm not ready to accept my fate. I'm scared of everything. I pushed Yuki and Hasaki away because I was scared... I was scared of losing it all. If I was truly strong, I wouldn't have acted like that. Tomosane: I'm a weak person. I'm not the Destroyer. I'm just worthless. Tomosane: I can't accept my own fate. That's why I hesitated to erase Mamiya Takuji before. Yuki: You dummy. If you're weak, then who on Earth is strong? Tomosane: At the very least, you're stronger than me. I'm worthless, losing to a woman. Yuki: Hehehe, of course you did. I'm your big sister. What kind of big sister would I be if I was weaker than you? Yuki: You're strong. You're the strongest person I know in this world, so don't worry about it. Tomosane: If I'm the strongest person in this world, then what are you? Yuki: That's easy. I'm the strongest person in the universe. Tomosane: You dummy. You're gonna get killed by Frieza. Yuki: Why would I be killed by a freezer? Tomosane: That's not what I meant. Yuki: Sure it is. Yuki smiled and embraced me. Yuki: I wonder how many more times we'll be able to meet. Yuki: No... This might be the last time. Tomosane: Is this the end? Yuki: No, we might see each other again. Tomosane: You dumbass... Which one is it? Yuki: Which do you think? Tomosane: Hehehe... We've had a lot of conversations like this before, right? Yuki: Yeah... We've had a whole lot of conversations just like this one. Yuki: It went by so quick, and yet it was such a long time. Such a long time, and yet it disappeared in an instant. Yuki: But... there were a lot of things we never got the chance to do. Tomosane: Things we didn't do, huh? I wanted to feel Yuki right then and there. Not knowing whether it would be our last time together or not, I wanted to spend what time we had left as best I could. But... I didn't. Right now, we have to focus on the future. Even if it means sacrificing the present, we have to change the future. I have to figure out everything I can right now. I can't get caught up in the present. Yuki: Yeah... We never slept together. Tomosane: You dumbass! Like I would do that with you! Yuki: You wouldn't? Tomosane: Not a chance in hell. Yuki: Oh really. You can't even be honest with yourself. I'll blow you, if you want. Tomosane: No thanks. Yuki: What's your problem? It's kind of irritating when you say it like that. Tomosane: Hey, what are you doing?! Yuki: I'm trying to unzip your pants. Tomosane: Seriously, stop! It's not funny! Yuki: Hahahaha, won't it be fine? You said you didn't get turned on by me... W-Wait? Tomosane: D-Dumbass! When Yuki pulled down the zipper... my hard dick popped out. It touched Yuki's hand through my underwear. Tomosane: Get away! Yuki: What the hell is this?! Tomosane: Stop! Yuki: Oh really? Tomosane: ... Yuki: This feels kind of nostalgic. Tomosane: N-Nothing good happens when you're around. Yuki: What are you talking about? You pushed me down, didn't you? Tomosane: N-No... It's because you were doing weird things. Yuki: Weird things? Tomosane: Th-That's right... Yuki: Weird things, huh? Not like I really care, but my underwear is showing again. Tomosane: Ah! Yuki: What, did you pull up my skirt on purpose when we fell? Tomosane: N-No! Yuki: Hehehe... A skirt can flip up on its own if you're thrashing about in bed. It was a joke. Tomosane: Don't make weird jokes at a time like this. Yuki: But I wasn't joking about my underwear showing, you know? Look... Tomosane: C-Cover yourself! Yuki: You don't like sexy things? Tomosane: Wh-What are you talking about? Yuki: Exactly what I said. You don't want to do sexy things? Tomosane: Y-You mean― Yuki: I want to do sexy things... with you. Tomosane: Huh? Yuki: Mm... Ah, Mmchu, mm... Tomosane: ... Yuki: Puhaa... Sexy... Tomosane: Wh-Why, you! Yuki: You didn't like it? Tomosane: I-I didn't say that... Yuki: Hmm... Then if you like it, use your tongue too. Tomosane: H-Hey... Yuki! Yuki: Mm, ah, mm... Tomosane: Mm, ah... Yuki's tongue carefully made its way over my tongue, my teeth, and the inside of my mouth. It wasn't what I expected. Her tongue was warm and soft... It felt really good. Tomosane: Ahm! Yuki: Mm... You're so cute, Tomosane. You can moan if you want. Does it feel good? Tomosane: N-No! Yuki: Doesn't it? It feels good for me... Then Yuki's tongue entwined with mine again... Mm... Her lips upon mine. Our soft, wet lips meeting. I wrapped one arm around her back and moved my other hand behind her head. Yuki responded in kind by wrapping both her arms around me. We held each other close. Our warmth melted together into one as we pulled our bodies close and put lips to lips. The sound of our saliva mixing as our tongues grappled. Yuki: ... As I tasted her lips, her tongue darted around inside my mouth. Yuki moved her lips away from mine. Our entwined tongues came apart, a silver line of saliva trailing between them. She gulped once, swallowing her saliva and mine, and then she let out a hot gasp. Then... Yuki: Wow... That was delicious. Tomosane: No, it wasn't... Yuki: The feelings. It felt good, at least. Tomosane: Oh, well... Me too. Yuki: Eheheheh, take this! Yuki giggled as she put her arms around me and playfully kissed me. Yuki: What should we do? Tomosane: What do you mean? Yuki: I'm getting really wet down here. Tomosane: Wha... Y-You dumbass, that's... Yuki: What? I didn't quite hear you. Go on. Say it. Tomosane: Are you fucking stupid?! Yuki: What? You don't like assertive girls? Tomosane: Th-That's not the problem here... Yuki: Then you like it when girls are forward with you? Tomosane: I told you... Yuki: Yeah. Go on. Touch it. Tomosane: Ah! Yuki slowly moved my hand up her thigh, pressing it into her panties. Yuki: Mm... Ehehehe, how is it? Tomosane: W-Well, it's... The feeling of her thighs and underwear... It was incredibly soft and warm. Yuki: Do you want to take my clothes off? Tomosane: Don't ask me that... Yuki: Or would you rather I kept them on? Tomosane: That's not what I said. Yuki: Then take them off me. I already unhooked my bra. Tomosane: ... I felt myself gulping to wet my throat, which suddenly felt dry as the desert sand. I put my hand on her blouse. It slipped from her shoulders easier than I would've ever expected. The bra under her clothes was already unhooked, just like she said. I took it off without a problem. Yuki: These strapless bras always make me feel so defenseless. Once you undo the hook, they're just sitting there on your chest. Her tone was jocular, but her cheeks were rosy, and her eyes were wet. Yuki's chest seemed to sparkle white, and her bust was perfectly proportional to her body. Tomosane: ... Yuki: What do you think? They're pretty big, right? Tomosane: I don't know. Aren't they about normal? Yuki: Jeez, you're such a virgin. They're way bigger than normal. Is your idea of average based on the girls you see in porn? Tomosane: Oh, uh... That's not what I meant. I wanted to deny it, but I had a feeling Yuki was actually right about that. The only time I ever really thought about the size of a woman's breasts was in porn, magazines, and things like that. Yuki: They're really soft, you know. Tomosane: ... I ignored her teasing and instead moved my lips down to her breasts. Yuki: Mm. She let out a moan. She must've been making jokes to distract herself from the pleasure already flowing through her body. Yuki: So that's what guys are thinking about when they do that. Tomosane: Don't read my mind. Yuki: I can't help it when you make a face like that! Tomosane: It's the truth, isn't it? Yuki: That's not true... is- Ah! I didn't let her finish her sentence. I put my face to her breast and batted my tongue against one of her nipples. Tomosane: ... Yuki: Ah... She moaned again when I did that. Yuki: ... I licked all around her nipple with the tip of my tongue. I had never felt such a thing upon the tip of my tongue before. Her breast was soft, and warm, and so nice. Yuki: ... I could feel her breast cupped within my hand. It was so soft I could change its shape just by moving my fingers. * Her luscious breast filled my hand perfectly.* Yuki: ... I investigated one nipple with my tongue, and I used my hand to play with the other breast. Yuki: Haa... Tomosane... Her nipple stood stiffly on end, growing hard from the stimulation. I sucked on it with my lips again. Yuki: Haa, ah, ahh... Her nipple was supple, bouncing back into position every time I batted it with my tongue. Yuki: Ah, ahh, Tomosane... She let out a plaintive moan. The sarcastic Yuki had completely disappeared. She was completely absorbed in the sensations of her body. The hot breaths she breathed as she spoke made me feel a warmth building up in the center of my body as well. Yuki: Hey, Tomosane, if you want you can... Yuki moved my empty hand down to rub between her thighs. I felt the slick wetness upon her thigh. I knew her thighs were wet, but when I moved my hand further up, I couldn't believe how hot it was between her legs. Tomosane: Wow... It's so hot down here. Yuki: Ahahaha... When I sweat, the exposed skin cools down right away, but it doesn't help cool down the skin under my clothes. Yuki: I'm sure it's even hotter than that inside me. Then Yuki pushed my hand even further in between her legs. Yuki: You can put your hand down my panties, you know. I slipped my finger in her panties at her behest. It was even hotter inside her underwear, and it was wet and sticky. Her most important place... I could feel a swollen nub just a little ways north. I was really surprised by how good it felt. Yuki: Ah, that tickles... Hehe, it feels good there, but you need to go a little lower. Yuki giggled and pushed my hand further down. In that lush, secret valley, there was an even hotter place further down. Yuki: Mm... Y-Yeah, right there. My middle finger plunged in between the two soft, puckering lips of her nether valley. My hand, pushed deep into her crotch, rubbed against a small warm swelling. I investigated it with one of my fingers. It felt like a flower bud. Yuki: Mmhaaaa! Yuki's entire body trembled. Tomosane: Ah! I stopped my finger. Then Yuki giggled at me. Yuki: Ahaha... Don't worry. It's not like it hurt or anything. Yuki: It just felt like you were keeping me waiting, so I was a little surprised, I guess? Tomosane: What do you mean? We just started. Yuki: You dummy. I've been waiting since the first time we met. That statement was weird and really embarrassing, so I ignored it and pulled down her panties instead. Yuki: Ah! I must've taken her by surprise again, since she yelped. Yuki: Wait... This is kind of embarrassing. Can you at least turn off the lights? Tomosane: Even if I did, I could still see. Yuki: Shut up, dummy. That's not what I'm talking about. It's all about the atmosphere. I ignored her complaints and started rolling her nipple around with my tongue. Yuki: Th-The lights... After pricking at her nipples with my tongue for a bit, I moved my hand in between her legs again. Yuki: Ahh! J-Jeez, Tomosane... Even Yuki can get embarrassed sometimes, huh? Yuki: Ah, th-that's... Ah, haa... Hey, don't think about me like that, you dummy! Yuki: Mfmm... Mm, ahh... Yuki put her arms around my back and kissed me. Every time our tongues came together, I felt her getting wetter and wetter down there. The hot liquid on my fingers helped them move smoothly inside of her. I pushed my fingers in and out of her pussy faster. Yuki: Mwah... Mm, aahh! Yuki pressed her lips into mine and wouldn't let up. I continued to finger her with my free hand. Yuki: Mm, no... Ahh... Suddenly, she arched her body and shook her head. She pulled away and licked her lips a few times. Yuki: A-Ahh, no... I'm getting so wet already, wow... Yuki: Ahaha... It's kind of embarrassing how good it feels... Ahh... I had never seen Yuki like this before. Her provocative body inflamed the lust within me. ... The liquid overflowing from her pot of honey clung to my fingers. I moved my hand faster still. Yuki: Ahh, ah... N-No, whoa, I'm... Ah, soon... Her teary eyes looked into mine. Her clitoris had swelled up from the excitement, so I pinched it in between my index finger and thumb. Yuki: Ah, no... I'm going to cum... Sorry, but I can't hold it anymore... Tomosane: Don't worry. Go right ahead. Yuki: Ah, no, no, I'm cumming, ahh, ahh, no, here it comes! Yuki: Mmmnghaaa! Ahhh! Aaaah! Yuki's body shook for a moment, and then it tensed up like she was being shocked. Finally, all the muscles in her body relaxed and she fell onto the bed. Yuki: Haa, haa... Yuki put her hand over her face. Yuki: Waaaah! Why didn't you turn the lights off?! Tomosane: Yeah right. It would just be a total buzzkill if I stopped and got up to turn off the lights. Yuki: It's so embarrassing, since I was the only one who came. Tomosane: Really? Yuki: Come on, I could tell you didn't get as worked up as I did there. Jeez... You don't have to worry about every little thing like that, Yuki. Yuki wiped her tears on her arm and pouted. Tomosane: Worked up, huh? Didn't it look like I was enjoying it? Yuki: But I was moaning and stuff, and you just looked so calm. Waaah! I hate you! Tomosane: Worked up, huh... I grabbed Yuki's hand and pulled her closer. Yuki: Huh?! Tomosane: I'm not calm at all right now. Yuki: What's this? Your boxers are soaked. I didn't know boys could get wet like this. Ahaha, Hasaki-chan will be mad at me. Tomosane: Maybe she will... Yuki: You didn't cum, did you? Tomosane: Oh, no... Yuki: Hmm, is that so? Yuki got on top of me and... My zipper was already down, so she had no trouble getting my pants off. Yuki: Come on, take these things off. After pulling my pants off, she put her hand on my boxers. Yuki: Ahahaha... This is kind of embarrassing, actually. When my boxers came off, my dick flopped out, the tip still wet from earlier. Yuki: Wow. Yuki stared at it in awe. Tomosane: Don't act so surprised. You're the one who did it. Yuki: Oh, uh... I just expected it to be some kind of fearsome monster or something, but it's surprisingly cute, you know? Tomosane: Is that a roundabout way of saying my dick is tiny? Yuki: Oh, no, that's not what I meant. But you know, there's a certain atmosphere to it, right? I expected a python or something, with scales and everything. Tomosane: It'd be terrifying if it had scales. Yuki: That's why I thought it would be scary. Where on earth did she learn about male anatomy? When Yuki grabbed my erect penis, it got even harder. Yuki: Oh, it jumped again... He's a lively little guy, isn't he? As she looked on in astonishment, her breath stimulated the tip of my member, sending sweet ripples of joy up my spine. Yuki: Ahahaha... But this might be a bit big for me. Her hand tightly gripped it again. Jump! It spasmed in response to the warmth and texture of her hand. Yuki: This seems a little too aggressive. Will it be as jumpy when it's inside of me? Tomosane: I don't know. Why don't you try it and see? Yuki: Are you offering to have sex with me? Tomosane: I think it's pretty obvious at this point. Yuki began to move her hand around my shaft, creating pleasure that I had never experienced before. Tomosane: Ugh... Yuki: Hmm? That doesn't sound good. Did it hurt? Tomosane: No, it didn't hurt... It's the exact opposite of it. Yuki: And that would be? Tomosane: D-Damn you... Yuki: Stop, the native boy! Tomosane: What kind of native am I supposed to be? Yuki: If you don't answer my question, I'll stop here. Tomosane: Ugh... Damn you... Yuki: Come on, tell your big sister what feels good, Tomosane. Sh-She's getting so cocky all of sudden. Yuki: Hmm... Tomosane: What... Realizing my frustration, Yuki let go of my penis. Yuki: I'll just stop if you don't tell me how it feels. Tomosane: Grr... Tomosane: Y-Yeah, I don't need it after all. Yuki: Huh? Yuki: Come on. Don't get so serious about it. Tomosane: Shut up... Yuki: But you see, I really can't tell if it feels good or not. It just looks swollen to me. Tomosane: Leave it... Her soft hand gently caressed my penis. Yuki: Oh, you moaned again. And something leaked from the tip. Tomosane: ... Yuki: Hey... can I ask you for a favor? Tomosane: You want a favor? Yuki: Yeah. Tomosane: What is it? Yuki: Can I put your penis in my mouth? Tomosane: Huh? Yuki: For some reason, I'm beginning to want to suck your penis. And I don't hate the taste, either. Yuki lasciviously licked my precum off of her hand. Yuki: Mm... And it's kinda cute. Tomosane: Ugh... Yuki: Hey, is it okay? Can I suck your penis? Tomosane: A-Aren't you embarrassed? Yuki: I am. But I did it so I could see more of your embarrassed face. Tomosane: Go ahead... Yuki: Ehehe... I'll start sucking it, then. Tomosane: Wha-?! Yuki: Mm... mm... mm... Tomosane: Ugh... Her mouth wrapping around it gave an euphoric sensation of warmth and softness beyond anything up to this point. Yuki moved her head closer, and began to nibble it with her wet lips. Tomosane: Nn! Yuki: Mm... mm... mm... haa... Tomosane: Aah... She opened her mouth and started working her way down the shaft. And whenever she bobbed her head, the numbing pleasure overwhelmed me. Yuki: Mm... mm... mm... Tomosane... As her lips slid down my shaft, small bursts of pleasure ran down my body. The relentless waves of pleasure ravaged my body. Yuki: Mm... ah... The taste is getting stronger... So much precum is coming out... Tomosane: Nn... Yuki: I-It's weird... I can feel... your thing jumping around in my mouth... Tomosane: Aah... nn... Y-Yuki... Yuki: Hehehe... Thanks, Tomosane. You're getting off to my blowjob... Mm... mm... The mixture of pleasure from her hands moving up and down the shaft and her lips kneading the head put me on the brink of losing control of my urges. Yuki: Ah... mm... mm... Your penis is... moving... I'm gonna... Yuki's lips were glossy with saliva and precum. And my dick, similarly covered in fluids, glistened lewdly. Tomosane: Y-Yuki... I can't hold it in anymore... I began to lose control over my impulse. The pleasure became so great that my hips were about to give out. Tomosane: It's going to come one... I can't hold it in anymore... Stop it, Yuki... Yuki: Mm... It's fine... Tomosane, you can let it out... Tomosane: Ugh... I'm really gonna let it out... Yuki! Yuki: Mm... Tomosane: Ahhhh! Yuki: Ah... The spasmic ejaculation covered Yuki with my semen. Tomosane: Haa... haa... haa... Yuki: Aah... It just went all over the place, so I couldn't swallow it... It's on my face now. She ran her finger over some of the semen on her face. Yuki: Aah... You let out so much... Did it feel good? Tomosane: Sorry... I didn't want to get it on your face, but I couldn't hold it in. Yuki: It's fine. I was curious about facials anyway. Yuki let out a mischievous smile and then grabbed tissues from a nearby tissue box. Yuki: It's a pain when it get on my hair. Tomosane: You can't wipe it off? Yuki: It just dries up when I try to wipe it off with tissues. It ends up harder to clean. Tomosane: I see... Yuki: Ah, oh yeah. Tomosane: What? Yuki used her finger to pick up some of the semen on her face and taste it. Yuki: ... Yuki: Hmm... Tomosane: Did you really just do that? Yuki: I guess it tastes like... snot? Tomosane: I didn't ask. Yuki: Or... a booger? Tomosane: They're the same thing. Yuki: Hmm... There's nothing that I can really compare it to, but it does taste as bad as people say. Yuki: Haa... You sure came a lot. Yuki: So you really haven't gotten any action in a long time? Tomosane: Shut up... Yuki: But now it's proven. Tomosane: What is? Yuki: Since you were holding it in so much, there was probably even semen in your sweat! Tomosane: Of course there wasn't! Yuki: You want to put it in now? Yuki spread her legs apart, revealing her crotch. Tomosane: ... My eyes drifted to it, but I quickly looked away after I realized her gaze was on me. Yuki: Ahahaha... Your expression makes it worth the embarrassment. So you are interested in it, after all. Tomosane: O-Of course... Yuki: Then let's put it in. Tomosane: Are you okay with this? Isn't this your first time? Yuki: Well, we can try. Tomosane: Ugh. Yuki clung to me in a tight embrace and rubbbed her flower, dripping wet with honey, against my hard dick. Our genitals, drenched in love juice, created squelching, wet sounds as we moved as one. Yuki: Nn... ahah... It makes really weird sound if I rub mine against yours. Tomosane: Nn... This... We grinded our genitals against each other, as if they were hugging other. Yuki: Nn... This... feels really good, but it's making really embarrassing noises... Yuki: Hey, Tomosane... kiss me. Tomosane: Mm... Yuki: Mm... mm... mmm... I felt Yuki's warm and soft membrane with my tongue and penis. Yuki: Mm... Amazing... It feels really weird... I'm getting really wet... Our saliva drooled on our cheeks, and our love juice dripped down our skin. Yuki: Ah... nn... ah... mm... mmm... Yuki rubbed her hips against mine, and because of the overwhelming pleasure, I couldn't even tell where my genitals were. And our bodies became completely drenched. Yuki: Hey... I want to do it... Tomosane: Are you sure it's okay? Yuki: I don't know, but I want you, Tomosane... Tomosane: I see... Yuki looked up to me with misty eyes, and gave a small nod. I knelt down in front of Yuki, pushed my rod toward her, and it just sank in. But... Yuki: Nn... Tomosane: Nngh... Her entrance was rather resistant. Actually, to be honest, I didn't know where the entrance was. Yuki: Don't rush it... It's a bit lower... Yeah... Right there... She guided my penis with her fingers. Yuki: Well, I don't really know it that well myself, but I think it's here. The place she specified felt like it would go further in compared to the other spots. I pushed my dick in that direction. Yuki: W-Wait, that's the wrong place! That's my ass! Tomosane: O-Oh, I didn't know. Yuki: That's not it. Here... Right here. Tomosane: I can't really tell because it's so wet. Yuki: Half of the wetness is from you. I couldn't tell what parts of Yuki I was pressed against, but I tried my best to insert my dick slowly and carefully. Tomosane: Nn... It felt different, as if my dick was being engulfed in something. Yuki: Ow, oww, owww... Tomosane: Does it hurt? Yuki: K-Kinda? Tomosane: Should I stop? Yuki: I-If you stop now... I'll curse you to death... Tomosane: Why? Yuki: Isn't it obvious? Tomosane: Ngh! Yuki embraced me tightly, and my dick sunk deep inside of her. Yuki: Nn! Yuki: I-It's because I want you inside of me... Yuki: We've finally become one... Normally, this would be a melodramatic scene. Yuki was crying and trying to hold it in, but even then the words she said were cute. But... Tomosane: That was cute, but please don't say such awful cliches. Yuki: Shut up! Tomosane: Does it hurt? Yuki: It hurts... It hurts, but that's fine... I think it's going to turn into pleasure soon enough. I gave her what she wanted. Yuki: H-Hey... why don't you try moving? Tomosane: Are you okay? Yuki: Ahah... I-I said it hurts, but it'll feel good soon enough... Tomosane: You're avoiding the question. I'm asking if you're okay right now. Yuki: I won't be able to tell unless you move... Tomosane: I see... I began to move slowly. Tomosane: Nn... Yuki: Uu... uwah... haa... Tomosane, your thing is... Tomosane: Your voice is stiffing up... Yuki: Ah, ah, ah, aah... It really hurts... Tomosane: Should I stop? Yuki: There's no way we could stop here. Just blow your load inside of me already! Tomosane: Don't say things like that... Jeez. When I tried to pull out, Yuki held onto my body tighter. Yuki: Hey... sorry... Tomosane: About what? Yuki: Sorry... It might be a turn off, but it really does hurt... and I'm not really doing a good job of hiding it... Yuki: But it's true that I want you to move inside of me and cum inside of me, so... Tomosane: So you don't want me to pull out. Yuki: Yeah. It might hurt, but... I want you to go the whole way... for me... ... I stroked Yuki's hair and began to move my hips slowly. Yuki's flower entangled itself around my rod, and the honey overflowed. Yuki: Haa, nn, nn, haa. I kissed her cheek as I gently thrusted my hips. And when my lips touched her cheek, Yuki turned her head around to meet her lips with mine. Our tongues intertwined as if they belonged together. Yuki: Nn... mmm... mm... I gently massaged her clitoris. Yuki: Nn... aah... Tomosane... aah... It seemed like she was still in pain. I continued to move my hips and tried to stimulate my penis in such a way that I would ejaculate sooner. Tomosane: Nn... It feels really good inside of you, Yuki... Yuki: Nn... haa... nn... nnn... Yuki: Tomosane... more... Tomosane... just use my body to make yourself feel good... That's all I want right now... Yuki: Tomosane... Tomosane... I love you... The grip around my dick slowly grew tighter. We fiercely embraced each other. Our bodies were closer than ever. The heat from our body melded into one. The sensation of her skin was euphoric. We felt each other using all of our senses. Tomosane: I-I'm gonna... Yuki: Aah... Tomosane... I'm... Tomosane... let it out... right there... Tomosane: Nngh... nn... Where are you talking about... Yuki: There... The place where your head is hitting... The deepest parts of me... Tomosane: Okay, I'll cum inside of you... Yuki: Please... Right there... Right there... Tomosane: Nn... I'm about to... cum... I'm gonna... Yuki hugged my body tightly. At that moment, the semen building up inside of me was released inside her. Tomosane: Ugh! Yuki: Nn?! Haa... guh... nn... nnn! Ah... Your stuff... is coming out... Tomosane: Ugh! Yuki: Nn... haa... Yuki: You let out a lot... Tomosane: S-Shut up... But now I've really done it... Yuki: Stop it with the whining. Regretting the sex right afterward is really rude to the girl. Tomosane: But you've been always calling yourself my big sister. Wouldn't that be incest? Yuki: Huh? But isn't it fine since our relationship's beyond that? Like I said, we're connected in every single way. Tomosane: Not just blood-related, but we're everything from muscle-related to brain-related. Our entire body is connected. Yuki: What are you talking about? That's not all. Tomosane: What more is there to it? Yuki: Our souls are connected. Tomosane: ... Tomosane: Nn... Yuki: Why are you blushing? You're making me embarrassed too! Tomosane: You just said something really embarrassing! Be more self-conscious! Yuki: But it's the truth. Tomosane: Yeah, but don't say it with a straight face! Yuki: Jeez, you're really shy, Tomosane. Tomosane: It's just that you're so damn shameless! Yuki: Shame? You're into that kind of thing? What, you want me to get into exhibitionism? Tomosane: Of course not! Yuki: Ahahaha... Well, if it's so embarrassing, think of it as masturbation. Tomosane: Th-That's also pretty shameless... Yuki: Jeez, you're really being cute here. Tomosane: S-Shut up! Stop being so full of yourself, dumbass! Yuki: Well, you've always told me that I sucked at reading the mood. Tomosane: Then try to fix that. This conversation with Yuki... I never thought something so normal could feel so precious to me. If I could, I wanted to continue this meaningless conversation forever. Yuki: You mustn't covet your possessions, for you may never know what could happen in the future. Yuki: Leningrad Philharmonic Orchestra's principal conductor, Evgeny Mravinsky, said that. Yuki: Knowing about the Great Purge of the Soviet Union, he felt that he might be considered unnecessary by his own country, and have to flee his motherland. Yuki: But he never said that we can't have too many spiritual belongings. Yuki: But Mravinsky, a devout Christian, must've believed that we can take our spiritual belongings to Heaven. Yuki: So... The next words he said were... We can take our spiritual belongings, our treasures to Heaven, so... "Treasure the moment..." ... But... I can't do that... Rather than treasuring the moment, I must change the future. I wanted to be with Yuki longer. But we live for the future. So we must work toward a better future, not some spiritual belongings. I wanted to be with Yuki, just like this. But I couldn't do that. There was something that I had to do...& I finally understood my purpose. Tomosane: Do you know what Mamiya did today, or what he thought and felt today? Rather than treasuring the moment, I chose to look to the future. Yuki looked at me and chuckled. Yuki: I don't really know all the details. Tomosane: You don't? Yuki: Yeah. He's vehemently denying the memory of a certain point in time. Tomosane: Denying his memory? Yuki: Yeah. I think something happened today that Mamiya Takuji would never admit. Tomosane: Something he would never admit? Yuki: I can't see that part of his memory at all. He must really not want to remember it. It's completely gone. Yuki: I'm sure I'm not the only one. Mamiya Takuji himself probably doesn't remember that it happened, even though he experienced it firsthand. Tomosane: He can change our memories that much? Yuki: I'm not sure, but... Tomosane: But? Yuki: Tomosane, be careful. I think something is about to happen. Something absolutely unimaginable is going to happen. Tomosane: Unimaginable? Yuki: Yeah. I'm the Harmonizer, and you're the Destroyer, but pretty soon those roles are going to become meaningless. Tomosane: Meaningless? How could that happen? Yuki: Tomosane, don't you feel it too? Tomosane: ...Ah! Of course I felt it, and today it was more certain than ever. Tomosane: Yeah... Yuki: Today, Mamiya Takuji experienced something traumatic that could change our world itself. Yuki: Even if I am disconnected from you and Hasaki-chan, I'll do my best to figure out what's going on. Tomosane: Can you do that after you're disconnected? Yuki: I've got a few tricks up my sleeve. I'll do my best. Tomosane: Well, I'll trust that you know what you're doing. The problem is... Yuki: We might not be able to exchange information anymore. That might be a problem. Tomosane: We should both write notes and leave them in our room. Though the other you probably would forget to do that once you're disconnected. Yuki: No, it might work if I make a habit out of it. Tomosane: A habit, huh? Can you make a habit in such a short time? Yuki: Ahahaha... Probably not, but damned if I won't try. Memory modification... That's not creation at all. Rather, his experiences are having an effect on Yuki's memory. To be honest, he could even be changing my memories too. Tomosane: You're gonna practice writing memos to yourself, huh? Yuki: Yeah, I guess so. Tomosane: ... How could the situation have changed so much in such a short period of time? Something that happened to Mamiya Takuji had this effect on him. Surely there must be some clues. When I looked up, Yuki had disappeared. Like always, she disappeared in an instant, without any warning, and then right after that...
Yuki: Yeah... We never slept together. Tomosane: You dumbass! Like I would do that with you! Yuki: You wouldn't? Tomosane: Not a chance in hell. Yuki: Oh really. You can't even be honest with yourself. I'll blow you, if you want. Tomosane: No thanks. Yuki: What's your problem? It's kind of irritating when you say it like that. Tomosane: Hey, what are you doing?! Yuki: I'm trying to unzip your pants. Tomosane: Seriously, stop! It's not funny! Yuki: Hahahaha, won't it be fine? You said you didn't get turned on by me... W-Wait? Tomosane: D-Dumbass! When Yuki pulled down the zipper... my hard dick popped out. It touched Yuki's hand through my underwear. Tomosane: Get away! Yuki: What the hell is this?! Tomosane: Stop! Yuki: Oh really? Tomosane: ... Yuki: This feels kind of nostalgic. Tomosane: N-Nothing good happens when you're around. Yuki: What are you talking about? You pushed me down, didn't you? Tomosane: N-No... It's because you were doing weird things. Yuki: Weird things? Tomosane: Th-That's right... Yuki: Weird things, huh? Not like I really care, but my underwear is showing again. Tomosane: Ah! Yuki: What, did you pull up my skirt on purpose when we fell? Tomosane: N-No! Yuki: Hehehe... A skirt can flip up on its own if you're thrashing about in bed. It was a joke. Tomosane: Don't make weird jokes at a time like this. Yuki: But I wasn't joking about my underwear showing, you know? Look... Tomosane: C-Cover yourself! Yuki: You don't like sexy things? Tomosane: Wh-What are you talking about? Yuki: Exactly what I said. You don't want to do sexy things? Tomosane: Y-You mean― Yuki: I want to do sexy things... with you. Tomosane: Huh? Yuki: Mm... Ah, Mmchu, mm... Tomosane: ... Yuki: Puhaa... Sexy... Tomosane: Wh-Why, you! Yuki: You didn't like it? Tomosane: I-I didn't say that... Yuki: Hmm... Then if you like it, use your tongue too. Tomosane: H-Hey... Yuki! Yuki: Mm, ah, mm... Tomosane: Mm, ah... Yuki's tongue carefully made its way over my tongue, my teeth, and the inside of my mouth. It wasn't what I expected. Her tongue was warm and soft... It felt really good. Tomosane: Ahm! Yuki: Mm... You're so cute, Tomosane. You can moan if you want. Does it feel good? Tomosane: N-No! Yuki: Doesn't it? It feels good for me... Then Yuki's tongue entwined with mine again... Mm... Her lips upon mine. Our soft, wet lips meeting. I wrapped one arm around her back and moved my other hand behind her head. Yuki responded in kind by wrapping both her arms around me. We held each other close. Our warmth melted together into one as we pulled our bodies close and put lips to lips. The sound of our saliva mixing as our tongues grappled. Yuki: ... As I tasted her lips, her tongue darted around inside my mouth. Yuki moved her lips away from mine. Our entwined tongues came apart, a silver line of saliva trailing between them. She gulped once, swallowing her saliva and mine, and then she let out a hot gasp. Then... Yuki: Wow... That was delicious. Tomosane: No, it wasn't... Yuki: The feelings. It felt good, at least. Tomosane: Oh, well... Me too. Yuki: Eheheheh, take this! Yuki giggled as she put her arms around me and playfully kissed me. Yuki: What should we do? Tomosane: What do you mean? Yuki: I'm getting really wet down here. Tomosane: Wha... Y-You dumbass, that's... Yuki: What? I didn't quite hear you. Go on. Say it. Tomosane: Are you fucking stupid?! Yuki: What? You don't like assertive girls? Tomosane: Th-That's not the problem here... Yuki: Then you like it when girls are forward with you? Tomosane: I told you... Yuki: Yeah. Go on. Touch it. Tomosane: Ah! Yuki slowly moved my hand up her thigh, pressing it into her panties. Yuki: Mm... Ehehehe, how is it? Tomosane: W-Well, it's... The feeling of her thighs and underwear... It was incredibly soft and warm. Yuki: Do you want to take my clothes off? Tomosane: Don't ask me that... Yuki: Or would you rather I kept them on? Tomosane: That's not what I said. Yuki: Then take them off me. I already unhooked my bra. Tomosane: ... I felt myself gulping to wet my throat, which suddenly felt dry as the desert sand. I put my hand on her blouse. It slipped from her shoulders easier than I would've ever expected. The bra under her clothes was already unhooked, just like she said. I took it off without a problem. Yuki: These strapless bras always make me feel so defenseless. Once you undo the hook, they're just sitting there on your chest. Her tone was jocular, but her cheeks were rosy, and her eyes were wet. Yuki's chest seemed to sparkle white, and her bust was perfectly proportional to her body. Tomosane: ... Yuki: What do you think? They're pretty big, right? Tomosane: I don't know. Aren't they about normal? Yuki: Jeez, you're such a virgin. They're way bigger than normal. Is your idea of average based on the girls you see in porn? Tomosane: Oh, uh... That's not what I meant. I wanted to deny it, but I had a feeling Yuki was actually right about that. The only time I ever really thought about the size of a woman's breasts was in porn, magazines, and things like that. Yuki: They're really soft, you know. Tomosane: ... I ignored her teasing and instead moved my lips down to her breasts. Yuki: Mm. She let out a moan. She must've been making jokes to distract herself from the pleasure already flowing through her body. Yuki: So that's what guys are thinking about when they do that. Tomosane: Don't read my mind. Yuki: I can't help it when you make a face like that! Tomosane: It's the truth, isn't it? Yuki: That's not true... is- Ah! I didn't let her finish her sentence. I put my face to her breast and batted my tongue against one of her nipples. Tomosane: ... Yuki: Ah... She moaned again when I did that. Yuki: ... I licked all around her nipple with the tip of my tongue. I had never felt such a thing upon the tip of my tongue before. Her breast was soft, and warm, and so nice. Yuki: ... I could feel her breast cupped within my hand. It was so soft I could change its shape just by moving my fingers. * Her luscious breast filled my hand perfectly.* Yuki: ... I investigated one nipple with my tongue, and I used my hand to play with the other breast. Yuki: Haa... Tomosane... Her nipple stood stiffly on end, growing hard from the stimulation. I sucked on it with my lips again. Yuki: Haa, ah, ahh... Her nipple was supple, bouncing back into position every time I batted it with my tongue. Yuki: Ah, ahh, Tomosane... She let out a plaintive moan. The sarcastic Yuki had completely disappeared. She was completely absorbed in the sensations of her body. The hot breaths she breathed as she spoke made me feel a warmth building up in the center of my body as well. Yuki: Hey, Tomosane, if you want you can... Yuki moved my empty hand down to rub between her thighs. I felt the slick wetness upon her thigh. I knew her thighs were wet, but when I moved my hand further up, I couldn't believe how hot it was between her legs. Tomosane: Wow... It's so hot down here. Yuki: Ahahaha... When I sweat, the exposed skin cools down right away, but it doesn't help cool down the skin under my clothes. Yuki: I'm sure it's even hotter than that inside me. Then Yuki pushed my hand even further in between her legs. Yuki: You can put your hand down my panties, you know. I slipped my finger in her panties at her behest. It was even hotter inside her underwear, and it was wet and sticky. Her most important place... I could feel a swollen nub just a little ways north. I was really surprised by how good it felt. Yuki: Ah, that tickles... Hehe, it feels good there, but you need to go a little lower. Yuki giggled and pushed my hand further down. In that lush, secret valley, there was an even hotter place further down. Yuki: Mm... Y-Yeah, right there. My middle finger plunged in between the two soft, puckering lips of her nether valley. My hand, pushed deep into her crotch, rubbed against a small warm swelling. I investigated it with one of my fingers. It felt like a flower bud. Yuki: Mmhaaaa! Yuki's entire body trembled. Tomosane: Ah! I stopped my finger. Then Yuki giggled at me. Yuki: Ahaha... Don't worry. It's not like it hurt or anything. Yuki: It just felt like you were keeping me waiting, so I was a little surprised, I guess? Tomosane: What do you mean? We just started. Yuki: You dummy. I've been waiting since the first time we met. That statement was weird and really embarrassing, so I ignored it and pulled down her panties instead. Yuki: Ah! I must've taken her by surprise again, since she yelped. Yuki: Wait... This is kind of embarrassing. Can you at least turn off the lights? Tomosane: Even if I did, I could still see. Yuki: Shut up, dummy. That's not what I'm talking about. It's all about the atmosphere. I ignored her complaints and started rolling her nipple around with my tongue. Yuki: Th-The lights... After pricking at her nipples with my tongue for a bit, I moved my hand in between her legs again. Yuki: Ahh! J-Jeez, Tomosane... Even Yuki can get embarrassed sometimes, huh? Yuki: Ah, th-that's... Ah, haa... Hey, don't think about me like that, you dummy! Yuki: Mfmm... Mm, ahh... Yuki put her arms around my back and kissed me. Every time our tongues came together, I felt her getting wetter and wetter down there. The hot liquid on my fingers helped them move smoothly inside of her. I pushed my fingers in and out of her pussy faster. Yuki: Mwah... Mm, aahh! Yuki pressed her lips into mine and wouldn't let up. I continued to finger her with my free hand. Yuki: Mm, no... Ahh... Suddenly, she arched her body and shook her head. She pulled away and licked her lips a few times. Yuki: A-Ahh, no... I'm getting so wet already, wow... Yuki: Ahaha... It's kind of embarrassing how good it feels... Ahh... I had never seen Yuki like this before. Her provocative body inflamed the lust within me. ... The liquid overflowing from her pot of honey clung to my fingers. I moved my hand faster still. Yuki: Ahh, ah... N-No, whoa, I'm... Ah, soon... Her teary eyes looked into mine. Her clitoris had swelled up from the excitement, so I pinched it in between my index finger and thumb. Yuki: Ah, no... I'm going to cum... Sorry, but I can't hold it anymore... Tomosane: Don't worry. Go right ahead. Yuki: Ah, no, no, I'm cumming, ahh, ahh, no, here it comes! Yuki: Mmmnghaaa! Ahhh! Aaaah! Yuki's body shook for a moment, and then it tensed up like she was being shocked. Finally, all the muscles in her body relaxed and she fell onto the bed. Yuki: Haa, haa... Yuki put her hand over her face. Yuki: Waaaah! Why didn't you turn the lights off?! Tomosane: Yeah right. It would just be a total buzzkill if I stopped and got up to turn off the lights. Yuki: It's so embarrassing, since I was the only one who came. Tomosane: Really? Yuki: Come on, I could tell you didn't get as worked up as I did there. Jeez... You don't have to worry about every little thing like that, Yuki. Yuki wiped her tears on her arm and pouted. Tomosane: Worked up, huh? Didn't it look like I was enjoying it? Yuki: But I was moaning and stuff, and you just looked so calm. Waaah! I hate you! Tomosane: Worked up, huh... I grabbed Yuki's hand and pulled her closer. Yuki: Huh?! Tomosane: I'm not calm at all right now. Yuki: What's this? Your boxers are soaked. I didn't know boys could get wet like this. Ahaha, Hasaki-chan will be mad at me. Tomosane: Maybe she will... Yuki: You didn't cum, did you? Tomosane: Oh, no... Yuki: Hmm, is that so? Yuki got on top of me and... My zipper was already down, so she had no trouble getting my pants off. Yuki: Come on, take these things off. After pulling my pants off, she put her hand on my boxers. Yuki: Ahahaha... This is kind of embarrassing, actually. When my boxers came off, my dick flopped out, the tip still wet from earlier. Yuki: Wow. Yuki stared at it in awe. Tomosane: Don't act so surprised. You're the one who did it. Yuki: Oh, uh... I just expected it to be some kind of fearsome monster or something, but it's surprisingly cute, you know? Tomosane: Is that a roundabout way of saying my dick is tiny? Yuki: Oh, no, that's not what I meant. But you know, there's a certain atmosphere to it, right? I expected a python or something, with scales and everything. Tomosane: It'd be terrifying if it had scales. Yuki: That's why I thought it would be scary. Where on earth did she learn about male anatomy? When Yuki grabbed my erect penis, it got even harder. Yuki: Oh, it jumped again... He's a lively little guy, isn't he? As she looked on in astonishment, her breath stimulated the tip of my member, sending sweet ripples of joy up my spine. Yuki: Ahahaha... But this might be a bit big for me. Her hand tightly gripped it again. Jump! It spasmed in response to the warmth and texture of her hand. Yuki: This seems a little too aggressive. Will it be as jumpy when it's inside of me? Tomosane: I don't know. Why don't you try it and see? Yuki: Are you offering to have sex with me? Tomosane: I think it's pretty obvious at this point. Yuki began to move her hand around my shaft, creating pleasure that I had never experienced before. Tomosane: Ugh... Yuki: Hmm? That doesn't sound good. Did it hurt? Tomosane: No, it didn't hurt... It's the exact opposite of it. Yuki: And that would be? Tomosane: D-Damn you... Yuki: Stop, the native boy! Tomosane: What kind of native am I supposed to be? Yuki: If you don't answer my question, I'll stop here. Tomosane: Ugh... Damn you... Yuki: Come on, tell your big sister what feels good, Tomosane. Sh-She's getting so cocky all of sudden. Yuki: Hmm... Tomosane: What... Realizing my frustration, Yuki let go of my penis. Yuki: I'll just stop if you don't tell me how it feels. Tomosane: Grr... Tomosane: Y-Yeah, I don't need it after all. Yuki: Huh? Yuki: Come on. Don't get so serious about it. Tomosane: Shut up... Yuki: But you see, I really can't tell if it feels good or not. It just looks swollen to me. Tomosane: Leave it... Her soft hand gently caressed my penis. Yuki: Oh, you moaned again. And something leaked from the tip. Tomosane: ... Yuki: Hey... can I ask you for a favor? Tomosane: You want a favor? Yuki: Yeah. Tomosane: What is it? Yuki: Can I put your penis in my mouth? Tomosane: Huh? Yuki: For some reason, I'm beginning to want to suck your penis. And I don't hate the taste, either. Yuki lasciviously licked my precum off of her hand. Yuki: Mm... And it's kinda cute. Tomosane: Ugh... Yuki: Hey, is it okay? Can I suck your penis? Tomosane: A-Aren't you embarrassed? Yuki: I am. But I did it so I could see more of your embarrassed face. Tomosane: Go ahead... Yuki: Ehehe... I'll start sucking it, then. Tomosane: Wha-?! Yuki: Mm... mm... mm... Tomosane: Ugh... Her mouth wrapping around it gave an euphoric sensation of warmth and softness beyond anything up to this point. Yuki moved her head closer, and began to nibble it with her wet lips. Tomosane: Nn! Yuki: Mm... mm... mm... haa... Tomosane: Aah... She opened her mouth and started working her way down the shaft. And whenever she bobbed her head, the numbing pleasure overwhelmed me. Yuki: Mm... mm... mm... Tomosane... As her lips slid down my shaft, small bursts of pleasure ran down my body. The relentless waves of pleasure ravaged my body. Yuki: Mm... ah... The taste is getting stronger... So much precum is coming out... Tomosane: Nn... Yuki: I-It's weird... I can feel... your thing jumping around in my mouth... Tomosane: Aah... nn... Y-Yuki... Yuki: Hehehe... Thanks, Tomosane. You're getting off to my blowjob... Mm... mm... The mixture of pleasure from her hands moving up and down the shaft and her lips kneading the head put me on the brink of losing control of my urges. Yuki: Ah... mm... mm... Your penis is... moving... I'm gonna... Yuki's lips were glossy with saliva and precum. And my dick, similarly covered in fluids, glistened lewdly. Tomosane: Y-Yuki... I can't hold it in anymore... I began to lose control over my impulse. The pleasure became so great that my hips were about to give out. Tomosane: It's going to come one... I can't hold it in anymore... Stop it, Yuki... Yuki: Mm... It's fine... Tomosane, you can let it out... Tomosane: Ugh... I'm really gonna let it out... Yuki! Yuki: Mm... Tomosane: Ahhhh! Yuki: Ah... The spasmic ejaculation covered Yuki with my semen. Tomosane: Haa... haa... haa... Yuki: Aah... It just went all over the place, so I couldn't swallow it... It's on my face now. She ran her finger over some of the semen on her face. Yuki: Aah... You let out so much... Did it feel good? Tomosane: Sorry... I didn't want to get it on your face, but I couldn't hold it in. Yuki: It's fine. I was curious about facials anyway. Yuki let out a mischievous smile and then grabbed tissues from a nearby tissue box. Yuki: It's a pain when it get on my hair. Tomosane: You can't wipe it off? Yuki: It just dries up when I try to wipe it off with tissues. It ends up harder to clean. Tomosane: I see... Yuki: Ah, oh yeah. Tomosane: What? Yuki used her finger to pick up some of the semen on her face and taste it. Yuki: ... Yuki: Hmm... Tomosane: Did you really just do that? Yuki: I guess it tastes like... snot? Tomosane: I didn't ask. Yuki: Or... a booger? Tomosane: They're the same thing. Yuki: Hmm... There's nothing that I can really compare it to, but it does taste as bad as people say. Yuki: Haa... You sure came a lot. Yuki: So you really haven't gotten any action in a long time? Tomosane: Shut up... Yuki: But now it's proven. Tomosane: What is? Yuki: Since you were holding it in so much, there was probably even semen in your sweat! Tomosane: Of course there wasn't! Yuki: You want to put it in now? Yuki spread her legs apart, revealing her crotch. Tomosane: ... My eyes drifted to it, but I quickly looked away after I realized her gaze was on me. Yuki: Ahahaha... Your expression makes it worth the embarrassment. So you are interested in it, after all. Tomosane: O-Of course... Yuki: Then let's put it in. Tomosane: Are you okay with this? Isn't this your first time? Yuki: Well, we can try. Tomosane: Ugh. Yuki clung to me in a tight embrace and rubbbed her flower, dripping wet with honey, against my hard dick. Our genitals, drenched in love juice, created squelching, wet sounds as we moved as one. Yuki: Nn... ahah... It makes really weird sound if I rub mine against yours. Tomosane: Nn... This... We grinded our genitals against each other, as if they were hugging other. Yuki: Nn... This... feels really good, but it's making really embarrassing noises... Yuki: Hey, Tomosane... kiss me. Tomosane: Mm... Yuki: Mm... mm... mmm... I felt Yuki's warm and soft membrane with my tongue and penis. Yuki: Mm... Amazing... It feels really weird... I'm getting really wet... Our saliva drooled on our cheeks, and our love juice dripped down our skin. Yuki: Ah... nn... ah... mm... mmm... Yuki rubbed her hips against mine, and because of the overwhelming pleasure, I couldn't even tell where my genitals were. And our bodies became completely drenched. Yuki: Hey... I want to do it... Tomosane: Are you sure it's okay? Yuki: I don't know, but I want you, Tomosane... Tomosane: I see... Yuki looked up to me with misty eyes, and gave a small nod. I knelt down in front of Yuki, pushed my rod toward her, and it just sank in. But... Yuki: Nn... Tomosane: Nngh... Her entrance was rather resistant. Actually, to be honest, I didn't know where the entrance was. Yuki: Don't rush it... It's a bit lower... Yeah... Right there... She guided my penis with her fingers. Yuki: Well, I don't really know it that well myself, but I think it's here. The place she specified felt like it would go further in compared to the other spots. I pushed my dick in that direction. Yuki: W-Wait, that's the wrong place! That's my ass! Tomosane: O-Oh, I didn't know. Yuki: That's not it. Here... Right here. Tomosane: I can't really tell because it's so wet. Yuki: Half of the wetness is from you. I couldn't tell what parts of Yuki I was pressed against, but I tried my best to insert my dick slowly and carefully. Tomosane: Nn... It felt different, as if my dick was being engulfed in something. Yuki: Ow, oww, owww... Tomosane: Does it hurt? Yuki: K-Kinda? Tomosane: Should I stop? Yuki: I-If you stop now... I'll curse you to death... Tomosane: Why? Yuki: Isn't it obvious? Tomosane: Ngh! Yuki embraced me tightly, and my dick sunk deep inside of her. Yuki: Nn! Yuki: I-It's because I want you inside of me... Yuki: We've finally become one... Normally, this would be a melodramatic scene. Yuki was crying and trying to hold it in, but even then the words she said were cute. But... Tomosane: That was cute, but please don't say such awful cliches. Yuki: Shut up! Tomosane: Does it hurt? Yuki: It hurts... It hurts, but that's fine... I think it's going to turn into pleasure soon enough. I gave her what she wanted. Yuki: H-Hey... why don't you try moving? Tomosane: Are you okay? Yuki: Ahah... I-I said it hurts, but it'll feel good soon enough... Tomosane: You're avoiding the question. I'm asking if you're okay right now. Yuki: I won't be able to tell unless you move... Tomosane: I see... I began to move slowly. Tomosane: Nn... Yuki: Uu... uwah... haa... Tomosane, your thing is... Tomosane: Your voice is stiffing up... Yuki: Ah, ah, ah, aah... It really hurts... Tomosane: Should I stop? Yuki: There's no way we could stop here. Just blow your load inside of me already! Tomosane: Don't say things like that... Jeez. When I tried to pull out, Yuki held onto my body tighter. Yuki: Hey... sorry... Tomosane: About what? Yuki: Sorry... It might be a turn off, but it really does hurt... and I'm not really doing a good job of hiding it... Yuki: But it's true that I want you to move inside of me and cum inside of me, so... Tomosane: So you don't want me to pull out. Yuki: Yeah. It might hurt, but... I want you to go the whole way... for me... ... I stroked Yuki's hair and began to move my hips slowly. Yuki's flower entangled itself around my rod, and the honey overflowed. Yuki: Haa, nn, nn, haa. I kissed her cheek as I gently thrusted my hips. And when my lips touched her cheek, Yuki turned her head around to meet her lips with mine. Our tongues intertwined as if they belonged together. Yuki: Nn... mmm... mm... I gently massaged her clitoris. Yuki: Nn... aah... Tomosane... aah... It seemed like she was still in pain. I continued to move my hips and tried to stimulate my penis in such a way that I would ejaculate sooner. Tomosane: Nn... It feels really good inside of you, Yuki... Yuki: Nn... haa... nn... nnn... Yuki: Tomosane... more... Tomosane... just use my body to make yourself feel good... That's all I want right now... Yuki: Tomosane... Tomosane... I love you... The grip around my dick slowly grew tighter. We fiercely embraced each other. Our bodies were closer than ever. The heat from our body melded into one. The sensation of her skin was euphoric. We felt each other using all of our senses. Tomosane: I-I'm gonna... Yuki: Aah... Tomosane... I'm... Tomosane... let it out... right there... Tomosane: Nngh... nn... Where are you talking about... Yuki: There... The place where your head is hitting... The deepest parts of me... Tomosane: Okay, I'll cum inside of you... Yuki: Please... Right there... Right there... Tomosane: Nn... I'm about to... cum... I'm gonna... Yuki hugged my body tightly. At that moment, the semen building up inside of me was released inside her. Tomosane: Ugh! Yuki: Nn?! Haa... guh... nn... nnn! Ah... Your stuff... is coming out... Tomosane: Ugh! Yuki: Nn... haa... Yuki: You let out a lot...
Tomosane: Ah... Tomosane: Where am I? Tomosane: Right... I lost consciousness when I tried to erase Mamiya Takuji. Tomosane: This is the break period? How much time has passed while I was out? I quickly pulled out my phone and looked at the time. Tomosane: Two hours? W-Wait. The date had already changed. An entire day had passed. Tomosane: What is this? The breaks in my continuity were getting worse. I was losing consciousness every time my concentration slipped. Tomosane: Consciousness... Now that I think of it, I feel like there was something I saw just before I lost consciousness last time. Something... Probably something I don't know... I don't know what that means. Tomosane: Agh! That feeling again. That feeling is... Him... That existence, growing stronger by the day. A strength that could swallow me at any moment. Tomosane: That's not important... I reached out and grabbed the shadow before me. And right when I did... The year * 2012* * July* * 20* * th* * Sa* * nami* * Koto* * mi* * White* * Lot* * us* * Association* * Foun* * der* * 's prophecy* * Return* * to the sky* * The twins' mistake* * The savior* * is* * torn to pieces* Tomosane: Wha-! What were those words? I knew some of those words. But a lot of them I had never seen before. A prophecy? July 20th, 2012? The twins... Torn to pieces... But my thoughts were suddenly interrupted. Takuji: Yuuki Tomosane-kun. Mamiya Takuji turned around. A revolting person. I felt a new, sickening revulsion when I saw him, worse than ever before. What's with him? There's something different about him. Did something happen? Confidence? How did he change so much in a single day? Takuji: What's wrong? Tomosane: ... Tomosane: Mamiya, you're kind of... Numada: Huh? Mamiya-kun, what's up? A nuisance came into the room. But I ignored them. Tomosane: ...Mamiya. Nishimura: Mamiya-kun? Tomosane: Hey, you dumb piece of shit, what's up with that goofy grin? Takuji: My grin? Hahaha... Am I grinning, now? Tomosane: Are you talking back to me? Takuji: I'll apologize if I offended you... Sorry. Tomosane: Apologize? What the fuck are you talking about? Didn't I teach you a better way to apologize to me, you little shit? Takuji: A better way? The atmosphere was clearly different. His attitude wasn't obedient at all. It was just the opposite. I know this Mamiya Takuji... I had met this Mamiya Takuji before, somewhere... In the distant past... And at that time, too... * I was afraid* * of Takuji.* Tomosane: Show me you're sorry with money. Bring me 200,000 yen. That includes what you were short last time. It felt like I was bluffing. I felt like a perfect fool. But still, I believed that I would get the same result, as if nothing had changed in the relationship between myself and Mamiya. He'll just cry because he can't do anything. No... That's only what I wanted to believe. Takuji: Money, huh... So, when do you want it by? Tomosane: What, you don't care about the deadline? Takuji: Not really. Either way... I don't really care, I guess? Tomosane: What? Do you have a way of getting the money? Takuji: Maybe I do. So why do you want 200,000 yen? Tomosane: What'd you say? Takuji: While I'm at it, why don't I give 200,000 yen to Numada and Nishimura too? Tomosane: What? Numada: Huh? Seriously? You're gonna give us money? Nishimura: Did you win the lottery? Takuji: Hehehehe, maybe I did. Numada: Really? Seriously? You don't mind? You finally feel like paying your debts for all those drugs you stole from us, huh? Nishimura: Yeah, those must've been worth over 1,000,000 yen, you know. Tomosane: Shut up! Numada: Huh? Tomosane: Forget about it. Numada: Huh? But you just... Um, I wasn't kidding about those costing like 1,000,000 yen. If you can, you really should pay us back. Tomosane: No one said I was gonna pay you fuckers. Nishimura: But you won the lottery, didn't you? Tomosane: Either way, you bastards need to disappear. Numada: Huh? Tomosane: Don't make me say it again. Disappear. Nishimura: Eek! They both ran off in fear when I yelled at them. Well, from their perspective, I offered to give them a ton of money and then suddenly got pissed at them. Takuji: Impressive. Tomosane: Huh? Takuji: It really is impressive how you can make people submit to you out of fear. Tomosane: You little... Takuji: Do you want to talk? Should we go somewhere else? Tomosane: What'd you say? Takuji: Let's go to the roof. Tomosane: ... Let's go the roof. For some reason, those words made my heart race. The rooftop... Mamiya Takuji... on the rooftop... Those two words seemed to resonate with just the wrong frequency, like they struck a dissonant chord in my heart. Tomosane: ALRIGHT, Mamiya-kun! You know, Takuji, what you said today REALLY hurt my feelings! Takuji: ... Tomosane: You were so well trained, and now you've gotten REBELLIOUS. Takuji: ... Tomosane: This is the rooftop. Tomosane: And... Tomosane: Class just started. Tomosane: No one will come here. Tomosane: No-one-will-come-to-save-you. Tomosane: Even if you die, no-one-will-notice. I said it dramatically like that to give myself some confidence. My heart was pounding, like it would never calm down. Takuji's eyes looked me up and down. As I looked into his eyes, I was taken in by the impression that I was gazing into portals to hell. Black pupils. Hell. Rooftop. Falling. Knife. Blood. Tomosane: Ah! Mysterious words suddenly flowed into my brain. Associations my mind had never made before. Connections between words. An unstable frequency. The racing beat of my heart. Tomosane: Mamiya-kun? Is there something you want to say to me? Tomosane: You must've gotten the wrong idea after watching some dumb anime. Are you starting to understand the situation you're in right now? A preemptive strike. I didn't put all my weight into the blow, since I expected him to dodge it. My fist slammed into his nose, sending blood flying through the air. Takuji: Ugh! Tomosane: Has that pain reminded you of anything? Tomosane: In the end, that's all you are. That's all you're good for. Tomosane: You'll live your life being bullied by people who are stronger than you. Tomosane: There's nowhere for you to run. Tomosane: The only place you can run to is the grave. Tomosane: Go on, cry. Tomosane: Just like you always do. Tomosane: Cry... Takuji: ... Takuji: Hehehehehe... Tomosane: The hell?! Takuji: Hehehe, it hurts... Tomosane: ...Takuji. Takuji: It hurts... You gave me another nosebleed. Takuji: Ever since you broke my nose, I've started getting nosebleeds all the time. Tomosane: ... Takuji: Do you want to end up like Shiroyama? Takuji: I'll make your death gruesome enough to repay you for every punch. Tomosane: ... Tomosane: Hmph... I wondered what you were gonna say. Tomosane: What are you on about? Did you cast some curse you read about in some occult magazine on Shiroyama? Tomosane: Hehehehe... What's with that crap? You really are stupid, huh? Tomosane: You really think I'm scared of that shit? Takuji: A curse? Takuji: It wasn't a curse. It was inevitable. Tomosane: Huh? What are you talking about? Takuji: He died, Takashima-san died, and now you're tormenting me. Takuji: It was all set up by my mother. * Sa* * nami* * Koto* * mi* What was that? His mother's name? I think Sanami was her maiden name. No, that's not important right now. My mind is confused. Calm down. Just focus on the person in front of you. Tomosane: H-Huh? What? What the hell are you going on about now? It's true, something in Mamiya Takuji had changed, but I still would never forgive him. Tomosane: Your mommy? Your mommy killed Shiroyama and Takashima? And you think she asked me to bully you? Takuji: Hehehe... You wouldn't understand, even were I to explain it. But I shall tell you this much. Tomosane: What? Takuji: Your role has ended. Tomosane: My role has ended? Takuji: That's right... It's over. Tomosane: Wh-What do you mean? Takuji: You existed only to discipline my mind. Today, your role has ended. Tomosane: Huh? What are you talking about? Tomosane: Discipline your mind? Hahahahaha! You're such a dumbass. Tomosane: Do you still have a brain left in that head of yours? Tomosane: I've always thought you had a screw loose, but I didn't know you'd gone off the deep end already. Tomosane: I was wondering what you were gonna say. Tomosane: Well then... Today I'll have to beat you harder than ever before. Tomosane: After I've given you the normal beatdown, I'll stick pencils in your ear and punch them. It'll be beyond painful. Tomosane: I'm gonna hurt you so bad you'll wish you could kill yourself. Tomosane: Here goes... Tomosane: Wha―?! I didn't let my guard down. I'm sure of that. I was even more focused than when I fought Yuki, and yet he had no trouble grabbing me when I struck at him. He dropped me to the concrete before I could pull my arm back. If I didn't react, I would fall right on my head, so I sacrificed the joint he had grabbed instead. Tomosane: Agh! Tomosane: Ugh... Tomosane: ... Takuji: Oh, look... I prepared myself for the next blow. White hot pain ran through my arm, but the rest of my body was uninjured, since I took the hit well. More importantly, this battle... It's all happening in my mind. Unless Mamiya Takuji receives the same injury, I know it's not real. So if I just endure the pain, my arm will heal in a few minutes. Tomosane: Y-You... But I need to avoid any damage to my head. Damage to my brain will scatter my consciousness. If I lose consciousness here, there's no guarantee I'll get another chance. Especially now, since he doesn't desire the same result he once did―his own destruction. He wants to erase me, so that he alone will remain. Takuji: Hehehehe... You're rather impressive... Takuji: I thought the battle would be over in an instant, but you really are strong. Tomosane: Wh-What'd you say?! Takuji: After all, I am the strongest person in the world. Tomosane: ...What are you on about? Takuji: Right now, I'm stronger than any person in human history. That's all. Tomosane: Y-You're crazy... Did you really lose your marbles? Takuji: Now it's my turn. Mamiya Takuji's attack. He seemed downright reckless... Overconfident? But that was good news for me. I turned my back to him and quickly spun my body around. Of course, I lost sight of the enemy for a moment, but I knew I couldn't defeat Mamiya without taking at least some risks. Takuji: Huh? I hit Mamiya with a clean backfist. Takuji: Chkh...... Tomosane: Ridiculous. You act like you're a black belt just because you learned a few tricks. Tomosane: You're gonna need another million years of training to match me. Takuji: This is... He got lucky with that one. If I'd hit him in the right spot, I would've won right then and there. But I missed his jaw, where I was aiming, by about 10cm and ended up striking him in the cheekbone. A little lower... If I had hit him in the jaw, the result might've been different. Mamiya Takuji could still fight. I was on the verge of despair as I spat these next words at him. Tomosane: Come on... I'll show you just how strong you really are. Takuji: Ugh! I was right to be worried. I should've erased him sooner. By the time I realized, it was already too late. Takuji: I can't believe he could do that. Takuji: Even after I was reborn... Tomosane: You haven't beaten me... until you've broken every bone in my body... Takuji: Ah! I was losing my grip on consciousness. I heard a crunching sound as he dislodged one of my teeth. He must've kicked me. My head was spinning. But I held onto consciousness... somehow. But there was still nothing I could do. Tomosane: ...Psh! Tomosane: Like hell you're the strongest. Knock it off with your delusions... You're gonna need to kick harder than that if you want to kill me. Takuji: ... Tomosane: Mamiya... remember this... Tomosane: If you don't kill me now... I'll end you next time... Tomosane: That's what it means to fight me... Tomosane: Mamiya Takuji! Takuji: ...Yuuki. Tomosane: I'm done playing along with your delusions. Takuji: My delusions? Tomosane: That's right... Your delusional world... No, your world itself will end. Takuji: My world itself? Tomosane: That's right... Takuji: ... Takuji: I see... I understand now. Tomosane: Understand what? Takuji: My preparation to become the savior is still not complete. Tomosane: You're still going on about that? Takuji: That's the reason you're so strong. Tomosane: Huh? What the hell does that mean? Takuji: You can come challenge me any time you like. Takuji: I'll make you bow to me every time. Takuji: Eventually, I'll make you bow down in spirit too. Takuji: I'll make you bow down before my glory. Tomosane: Y-You crazy bastard... Takuji: Hehehehehe... Keep on barking. You can challenge me any time you like. Takuji: Your existence is nothing more than a challenge for me to overcome on my path. Takuji: My battle with you is just training. Takuji: That's the reason my mother gave you such exceptional power. Tomosane: Your mother? Just how crazy are you? Takuji: Hehehehe... Well, go rest for today. You can't challenge me to a rematch with those wounds. Takuji: Hahahahahaha... Mamiya let out a wild laugh in celebration of his victory. I was just thankful... That it wasn't night... That there was no knife... And that Hasaki wasn't there... Somehow, those thoughts floated up within me as I faded to black.
Utter defeat. Once I understood that, the conclusion was simple. My existence was no longer necessary. The personality created to erase Mamiya Takuji was instead defeated by him. More than anyone else on this planet, I was worthless and unnecessary. "So now what? Are you just gonna disappear?" Tomosane: Who's that? "You don't recognize me?" Tomosane: Yuki? Yuki: That's right. Why the long face, pardner? Tomosane: Long face? Does that mean you can see me? Yuki: Of course I can. Tomosane: I thought I would never see you again. Yuki: Never again, huh? You said that before, too. Tomosane: Before? Did I say that? Yuki: Yeah, quite a while back. Don't worry about it. The warmth of her skin... The scent of her body... Yuki: Oh, right. I have a certain feeling to me, don't I? Tomosane: Yeah... Yuki: Then try lifting your consciousness to the surface. Tomosane: Lifting my consciousness? Yuki: Right now, Mamiya is sound asleep. It shouldn't be all that hard. Tomosane: Mamiya is sound asleep... I was buffeted by the wind. I'd never felt such a cool wind at this time of year. Tomosane: Where are we? The trees rustled in the wind. A creek babbled in the distance. Tomosane: It's a bit chilly. Is it autumn already? Yuki: What do you mean? Tomosane: No, I just thought maybe I was out for a long time. Like a few months or so. Yuki: If you were gone for that long, you would never come back. Tomosane: Then why is it so chilly? Tomosane: And besides... is that water I hear? It sounds like there's a stream nearby. Yuki: Open your eyes. Tomosane: My eyes? Oh, my eyes weren't open. That's why it was so dark. Tomosane: ... Yuki: Can you see? Tomosane: My eyes won't open. Yuki: Oh, really? Well, don't worry about it. Can you hear the sounds? Can you feel the wind? Tomosane: Yeah, I can, but... I had forgotten how to open my eyes. I couldn't pry them open. Yuki: Ahahahaha... Apparently, some people forget how to breathe, you know? Like when they're sleeping and stuff. But don't worry, you just need to calm yourself. Yuki: Calm yourself... and open your eyes. You can still see, I promise. Tomosane: Calm... Tomosane: What's... going on? Yuki: I'm carrying you. Tomosane: I can see that, but why are you carrying me? Moreover, Yuki is wearing a martial arts uniform. Yuki: You got the crap beaten out of you, remember? Tomosane: But that doesn't mean my body was actually injured. If it was, Mamiya Takuji would've been injured too. Yuki: So? Tomosane: So I'm fine. Now let me down. Yuki: Really? I thought you couldn't move at all. Tomosane: Huh?! When I tried to get down, I could hardly move my body at all. Tomosane: What's going on? Yuki: I told you, he beat the crap out of you. Tomosane: But that was just in my head... Yuki: What are you talking about? Those wounds aren't the only thing in your head. You and I only exist in your head too, you know? Tomosane: That's not what I mean. Yuki: There's no such thing as a fake wound. Pain is still pain. There's no faking that. Yuki: Well, I guess it does happen sometimes. Like if you go to the doctor, maybe he tells you there's no way that part of your body actually hurts, but then I'd probably just call the doctor stupid. Yuki: There's no such thing as illusory pain. If it hurts, it's pain. Those wounds you received weren't fake, either. Tomosane: Don't get philosophical on me now. Yuki: Well, if I'm being perfectly serious, I just forcibly pulled you up from your unconscious state. That's why you can't move right now. Tomosane: What do you mean? You can forcibly bring my consciousness to the forefront? Yuki: Well, there are a few risks involved. Tomosane: Risks? Yuki: Oh, don't worry about it. We're here. Tomosane: Here? Tomosane: Where are we? Yuki: The dojo, specifically the back door. We used to train here, remember? Tomosane: No, I don't. Besides, where is this, really? Yuki: The Mamiya dojo. Isn't it nostalgic? Tomosane: Mamiya's dojo? You mean our father's martial arts dojo out in the countryside? Yuki: Yeah, that's the one. Tomosane: Sure it's nostalgic or whatever, but more importantly... Why are we here? I mean, shouldn't it take like... Yuki: Hours and hours to get here from Tokyo? Tomosane: Yeah, it's not the kind of place you can just come to on a whim. Why are we here all of a sudden? Yuki: I know what you mean. Why do you think? Tomosane: We traveled here while I was unconscious? How long was I out this time? Yuki: How long do you think? Tomosane: I'm not really sure, but it doesn't feel like it was that long. Yuki: Oh, really... How long do you think, then? Tomosane: A night... or maybe a little longer. I'd say about a whole day. That's about how long it feels like. Yuki: And yet you're shocked to find that you've been transported to a far away place. Tomosane: Yeah, that about sums it up... So what's going on? Yuki: I don't know, what do you think is going on? Yuki: Oh, right, how's your body feel? Can you move yet? Tomosane: My body? Oh, you're right. Before, I could hardly move my body at all, but now I could move it normally. It was like I had forgotten how to move my limbs... or maybe, like my entire body was weighted down with lead. That kind of feeling. That feeling was like... Yuki: Like what? What's it like? That's right. This particular feeling of unreality... Tomosane: In just a day or two... I don't know exactly how much time has passed, but it doesn't seem like I could actually be standing here, so maybe... Tomosane: A dream... Is this a dream? Yuki: Hehehe... Bingo. You're smarter than you look. Tomosane: This weird feeling in my body is just like a dream, but... Yuki: Huh? Is something wrong? What's different? I can't quite put my finger on it... Tomosane: It's like my consciousness is too clear for this to be a dream... It's like I'm really awake. And besides, I've never been aware that I was dreaming while the dream was still going on before. Yuki: I know what you mean. Dreams should be a bit silly, right? Your thoughts and everything you see would be a bit off-kilter. Well, would you believe it was a dream if I was naked right now? Tomosane: You're welcome to try it. Yuki: As if! Tomosane: What's your deal? You're the one who was flashing me your panties a few days ago. Yuki: There's a big difference between panties and actual nudity. Panties are just cloth, you know. Tomosane: Who cares about that?! Anyway, are we in, uh... Tomosane: A lucid dream? Yuki: Oh, good job. I knew you would figure it out. Tomosane: No, I really don't know much about them. I've just heard other people talk about them. Yuki: Do you want me to explain? Tomosane: For future reference, I suppose... Yuki: Sure. It's important that you know what's really going on. At least if you feel up to it. Tomosane: Up to what? Yuki: Oh, don't worry about it. Anyway, lucid dreams are, uh... Well, to put it simply, it's a dream that you can control, one that you're completely aware of. Yuki: The frontal lobe and hippocampus in your brain... Uh, just think of them as the parts that control thought, consciousness, and long-term memory. Yuki: When you're awake, those parts process the information you see and hear. And when you're dreaming, you can partially wake up your frontal lobe and then it can control your dreams in cooperation with your hippocampus. Tomosane: Partially wake up my frontal lobe? I think I understand the idea, but is that really possible? Yuki: I guess it's possible if you practice enough. Tomosane: Practice? Does that mean this is a world created through practice? Yuki: I guess so. Tomosane: Coincidental fruits of our labor, I guess? Yuki: Well, there's a trick to it. Most people get really confused when their frontal lobe wakes up during a dream. Tomosane: Confusion, huh? I think I understand. When you say partially wake up, it makes me think of sleep paralysis. Yuki: Yeah, when people become aware of their dreams, they usually feel like they're trapped and can't move their bodies. Yuki: The difference between their real body and their dream body... That incongruence makes your hippocampus remember that you're sleeping. Tomosane: So even though you're not awake, your brain creates a situation where you believe you're awake? Yuki: Then your heart rate rises, your breathing speeds up, and finally you wake up. Tomosane: So that feeling from before where I couldn't move my body was because I was in a state of half-consciousness? Yuki: Yeah, because even in the dream you were still trying to move your real body. Tomosane: But I didn't wake up. Was that because of your power? Yuki: Who knows? Tomosane: I can't freely control my dreams. I can't imagine it wasn't your power. Didn't you say you practiced it? Yuki: Well, there are a lot of techniques for becoming aware of your dreams. The people on the Malay Peninsula have been developing their own technique for lucid dreaming for millennia. Tomosane: The technique for surviving erasure at Mamiya Takuji's hands... Even while your consciousness is locked away, you need to ensure a minimal level of conscious activity. Tomosane: Which means this power... Lucid dreaming would be the most useful skill for you to acquire. Yuki: You could say that. Tomosane: That must mean this is your dream. Yuki: Really? Tomosane: Well... is it not? Yuki: Isn't it a bit hasty to say it's definitely my dream? Tomosane: Huh? Why? What's hasty about that? Didn't you practice to acquire this skill? Yuki: Yeah, but still, wouldn't that be a bit weird? Tomosane: What would? Yuki: For instance, if Hasaki-chan was here, would that be the real Hasaki-chan? Tomosane: Huh? Of course not. Besides, Hasaki couldn't come here. Yuki: But it wouldn't be that weird if Hasaki-chan appeared in one of your dreams, right? Tomosane: But that would just be part of the dream. The real Hasaki could never appear in my dream. Yuki: Then if this is my dream, that would make you just a part of my dream. Are you an illusion that my brain is creating? Tomosane: No, wait, I'm not an illusion. Yuki: Then maybe it's the reverse, and I'm the one that's an illusion. Tomosane: No, wait... I'm not capable of controlling my dreams like this. Tomosane: Besides, what you're saying doesn't apply to us, since we share the same body. Yuki: Really? Is it that simple? Tomosane: Why? Yuki: For example, let's say this isn't dissociative identity disorder, or what most people call multiple personality disorder. Suppose we didn't have that. Tomosane: Huh? What do you mean? Yuki: Just listen for a second. For instance, what if there was only one body between us. Yuki: But in that one body, let's suppose that three souls had actually taken up residence. Each one of those souls could dream. Yuki: And when one soul dreams, most of the people in that dream would be people who don't share the same body. Let's say those people were just fabrications of a dreaming mind. Yuki: And let's assume that the only people in the dream who weren't just fabrications were two of the souls sharing the same body. Yuki: Isn't that a bit weird? Tomosane: Uh... That was sort of complicated, so I'm not really sure. First of all, there's no such thing as a soul. We're just the symptoms of an illness. Yuki: Oh, I see. So there's no such thing as a soul, huh? Okay, let's start from that assumption, then. Yuki: But you know, there's still the possibility that this dream isn't mine or yours, and neither of us truly exists. Tomosane: What are you trying to say? Yuki: Well, it's just, if you say that this world is someone's dream, then reality could be someone's dream too. Tomosane: That's not true. You can wake up from a dream. If you don't wake up, then it's reality. Yuki: I see. So an endless dream is reality, and you assume that you'll eventually wake up from this dream. Okay, if you say so. Tomosane: So then... why are we here? Yuki: Why not? You don't like the Mamiya dojo? Tomosane: It doesn't matter to me, but it's not like you or I have ever actually seen the dojo, right? Yuki: You think so? I suppose we didn't develop multiple personalities until quite a while after Mamiya Takuji was in Sawaimura. Tomosane: So why did you pick a place only Mamiya Takuji knows? Yuki: Hmm... I guess you don't even recognize this place in your dreams, huh? Tomosane: Of course not. I didn't exist until just two years ago, and it's been more than ten years since Mamiya Takuji stayed here. Yuki: Yeah... I guess you could say that, but it would make sense if you had the same memories, right? You share quite a lot of memories with him, don't you? Tomosane: Shared memories... Yuki: Memories about places are almost always shared, right? The layout of the school building, the road home... All those have to be shared or we'd get lost all the time, right? Now that she mentions it... Place-based memories are almost always shared. And besides that, language, common sense, and other knowledge necessary for day-to-day life. Basic, normal knowledge a person should have is shared between us. Which means I should have memories about this place too. Yuki: But you don't remember this place at all. Tomosane: Yeah, not even a little. Yuki: I see... So you don't remember it... That makes sense, I guess. Tomosane: What makes sense? Yuki: Who knows? All right, more importantly, I have a question for you. Tomosane: A question? Yuki: I guess it's just something I want to confirm. Something I need to confirm. Tomosane: Confirm what? Yuki: Yeah, um... No matter whether this is your dream or mine, this situation wouldn't come about unless someone wanted it to. Tomosane: Someone wanted this to happen? Yuki: Yeah, which in this case means you or me. One of us wanted to have a lucid dream. Normal dreams aren't like that, but you can't have a lucid dream by accident. Tomosane: Well, if you say so... Yuki: Answer this next question honestly. Tomosane: What question? Yuki: It's really important, all right? Tomosane: Yeah... Sure. Yuki: Ahem... First off * It's very hard to have a lucid dream, but it's very easy to wake up."* Yuki: But you can either keep dreaming, or you can wake up. Which means you can go back to reality. Tomosane: Reality? Yuki: That's right. If you wake up now, the Tomosane personality will return to the real world. Yuki: If you do that, you can go talk to the real Hasaki-chan, or even Master at Hakushuukyou. Tomosane: It sounds like you just said something really important. Yuki: That's right, I did. It's important that you understand that. Tomosane: Then let me ask... What if I don't wake up from this dream? Yuki: The next time you wake up will probably... no, it will definitely be your last battle with Mamiya Takuji. Tomosane: My last battle with Mamiya? Yuki: To put it simply, the deciding battle between Mamiya Takuji and you, Yuuki Tomosane. Yuki: And no matter who wins, that will be the last time 'Yuuki Tomosane' wakes up. Tomosane: The last time that I... that 'Yuuki Tomosane' wakes up? Yuki: If you wake up now... If you can wake up, then there's still time for you to do what you need to in the real world. Yuki: You were right earlier. Today is the 15th, and you've been out for about a day. Yuki: If you wake up now, there's still a bit of time left. Tomosane: And if I don't? Yuki: You won't have another chance. Tomosane: The final battle, huh... Yuki: Yep. I don't know why, but it seems like he has a clear goal in mind now. Tomosane: Yeah, it looks that way. When we fought, he said something really weird. Yuki: Yeah, that's why you've become an entirely unnecessary person in Mamiya Takuji's eyes. And as time passes, his self-certainty will only grow stronger. Yuki: This lucid dream right now is your last chance. If this dream ends, you probably won't be able to wake up before the last battle. Tomosane: How do you know I'll wake up at the final battle next? Yuki: Well, part of it is just my intuition, but he didn't finish you off last time, right? Tomosane: Yeah, that's right. Yuki: If he didn't finish you off, that means you two will have to fight again... That's all. Yuki: So I guess I can't be certain that there will be a battle. Yuki: But whether you choose to wake up or stay in this lucid dream, this could very well be the last of the time you have left. Tomosane: So this is the end... Yuki: You should know it too, right? July 20th, 2012. Tomosane: The prophecy... Yuki: Several decades ago, before Mamiya Takuji was even born, a religious leader prophesied that the world would end on this day. Tomosane: The White Lotus Association... Yuki: You know about it? Tomosane: No, not at all. That word just entered my brain when I made contact with Mamiya Takuji. It was a memory that he had. Yuki: Anyway, Mamiya Takuji believes that the world will be destroyed on July 20th, 2012. Yuki: And on the border of that day... on the 19th, he thinks he has to return it all to the sky. Tomosane: What does returning something to the sky mean? Yuki: You know what it means, Tomosane. Tomosane: Wha-?! What was that just now? Yuki: Returning something to the sky means exactly that. Returning it to the sky. Well, if those people could fly like birds, maybe they'd make it to the sky. Tomosane: They fall.. Yuki: And die. Tomosane: You said returning 'everything,' but what does that really mean? Yuki: According to the prophecy, it's a great number of people, but 'a great number' of people is entirely subjective. Either way, I'm sure that he wants to return as many people to the sky as he can. Tomosane: Hasaki isn't supposed to be one of those people, is she? Yuki: Who knows? Tomosane: What do you mean? Mamiya Takuji created you to protect Hasaki. Yuki: But hasn't he already broken those laws? Tomosane: Ah! Yuki: Those same laws say that you have to defeat Mamiya Takuji and strike him the final blow. Tomosane: Then what about Hasaki? Hasaki is the closest person to him, so if he wants to return all of humanity to the sky, then would he start with... Yuki: Are you worried about Hasaki-chan? Tomosane: Of course I am! Aren't you?! Yuki: I'm not the one who has to decide. I'm asking about your intention. Do you want to protect Hasaki-chan? Tomosane: Of course I do. If something happened to Hasaki... Yuki: Good. So go protect Hasaki-chan. Tomosane: You want me... to protect her? Yuki: That's right. To be honest, I don't think it's impossible that Mamiya Takuji might try to kill her. Yuki: Or it might be more logical to assume that he will. Tomosane: What?! Why didn't you say that earlier?! Yuki: But think it through. He doesn't think that returning to the sky means killing someone, he thinks it's the way to a better world. Yuki: Cults spring up all the time, right? There was a famous cult in the 90s that thought it wasn't bad to kill people because killing people was just 'Phowa.' Tomosane: So what's going to happen to Hasaki? Yuki: Well, it's already ended, so maybe he's satisfied as is, but... Tomosane: What do you mean? What's ended? Yuki: Oh, don't mind me. I'm just talking to myself. Regardless, protecting Hasaki is your job now, Tomosane. Tomosane: Yuki, are you... Yuki: I'm not coddling you anymore! You can't rely on me forever. Tomosane: Coddling? Yuki: That's right. If you want to protect Haskai-chan, then you'll have to be the one to protect her. Yuki: I mean, don't you get it? Those rules about the Destroyer and the Harmonizer, all that just got flushed down the toilet. Tomosane: Ah! Yuki: If you want to protect her, the best thing you can do is go back to the real world. Tomosane: You want me to go back? Yuki: Yeah, for instance, you could get Hasaki-chan to a safe place, where Mamiya Takuji can't reach her. Yuki: Well, you don't have to go too far. Wouldn't she be safe if you asked Master at Hakushuukyou to protect her? Tomosane: Master... could protect her. Yuki: Yeah, if that's what you want to do, then you should go back right now. You'll get to see Hasaki-chan again, too. If you're intent on protecting her, then that's the best way. Tomosane: But that's only one choice... is what you're saying. Yuki: Yep. Tomosane: Earlier you said that we're here because at least one of us wanted to be here, right? Here in the world of a lucid dream? Yuki: That's right. This world appeared because either Yuki or I wished for it. I was struck by the impulse to just ask Yuki... "Were you the one who wished for it?" But I couldn't. That would just be relying on Yuki again. That's right... The one who wanted this world to exist... Tomosane: I am here... because I wanted it. Yuki: That's a good answer. Then why did I want this dream? A lucid dream, a kind of world I could control... What I wanted... To return from this place, to the real world. To spend the rest of the time I have left with Hasaki. To protect Hasaki. To accept the same fate as Mamiya Takuji. To return to the sky... In other words, to die. The other choice... Tomosane: Yuki, you said we could manipulate this dream. What did you mean? Yuki: Hehehe. Didn't I just tell you about the lucid dream's structure, and how to have one? Tomosane: No, that's not what I mean. I'm not asking how to induce one, but how to control it. Tomosane: Something like this... Have you heard the story about when the swordsman, Itou Ittousai, learned his famous technique, the Annihilating Blade? Tomosane: Ittousai unwittingly spent the night with a woman who bore him a grudge. Tomosane: Once he feel asleep, she hid a blade under his pillow, and then beckoned dozens of assassins to come into his room. Tomosane: Ittousai was a hair's width away from death, but even in his sleep, he evaded his opponent's blades, and before he even awoke he had mastered the new technique. Yuki: But that story is bullshit. Tomosane: But Ittousai already possessed a secret technique called the Dream Blade. It was said to allow him to unconsciously cut his enemies down. Yuki: A lucid dream. Waking only one part of the brain during unconsciousness, and controlling your dream. When we invoke the mental state of the great swordsman of the past, we enter a lucid dream. Is that what you mean? Tomosane: Yeah. It's just my intuition, though. Yuki: Ahahaha, that's a good answer, Tomosane. Yuki: I see. So you want to find a mental state that eludes you outside your dreams... You think there might be an answer here in the lucid dream? Tomosane: Yeah, didn't you say that Mamiya Takuji could sense my movements even when he wasn't conscious? Yuki: Even when he's out like a light, he still knows what's going on in the world, just as if he was awake. Tomosane: I see... Yuki: Heh, hehehe... Tomosane: Wh-What's so funny? Yuki: Oh, come on. Use your common sense. There's no way my lucid dream could ever be the same as a famous swordsman's. Itou Ittousai was said to have never lost a duel in his life, and that was during the violence of the Sengoku Period. Tomosane: That's true, but... Yuki: Besides, the best I can do with my powers is watch the other two people in the same body. Tomosane: But still, that's hard... I don't understand it at all. Tomosane: And the person I'm fighting is not a master, an expert, or a virtuoso. Tomosane: The one I'm fighting is Mamiya Takuji. As you put it, one of those other people in the same body. Tomosane: If this mindstate will help me beat him, there's value in acquiring it even if it's useless against anyone else. Yuki: Hehehe... Just so you know, in all dreams, including lucid dreams, your perception of time gets messed up. What feels like an hour to you in a dream might be a few minutes in reality. Yuki: It's not the same as the master swordsman's technique, but you can clearly affect the amount of time the other personalities are conscious. Tomosane: Which means? Yuki: If you can acquire the right mindstate, you might be able to defeat Mamiya Takuji. Tomosane: Could I win? Yuki: Only if you really understand it, but it's not a simple thing to learn. Tomosane: I know that it's not simple. Yuki: I see... You haven't changed a bit, have you? Tomosane: I haven't changed? Yuki: Oh, I'm just talking to myself. All right, this is Yuki-nee's final lesson. Yuki: So that you can overcome everything... So that, at the end of it all, you will win. Yuki: We'll have a match. Yuki: What even I could do for the sake of those final moments. Did Yuki just say something? Tomosane: Huh?! Yuki: What's wrong? Why so surprised? Wh-What was that? I didn't see her hit me at all. Yuki: What, was it that surprising? Tomosane: I'm more than just surprised. That attack just now... Yuki: What, you couldn't see it coming? Tomosane: Yeah, it didn't feel normal at all. Yuki: What are you talking about? Of course it didn't. This is a dream. Yuki: In order for two people in the same body to read each other's moves, they would have to react after the electrical impulses were sent to the muscles in the body, right? Tomosane: Yeah... Yuki: But there's no real need for us to send those signals to the real body, so there would be no time lag to react to. Tomosane: In other words, I can't avoid your attacks because there's no delay before you hit me. Yuki: Hehehe... You think? Try attacking me. Tomosane: ... Tomosane: Wha-?! Tomosane: Agh... Yuki: Weird, huh? I shouldn't be able to read your moves, since there's no delay. In other words, that should've hit. Tomosane: ...Ah! Yuki: And yet, it didn't hit. Plus, you can't even dodge my attacks. Tomosane: Ow! Yuki: Hehehe... Weird, huh? You can't hit me at all, and you can't defend yourself. What's going on? She's not just reacting to my movements. It's like she's predicting them all beforehand." Yuki: All right. You'll have to remember it by the pain in your body. The real training starts now. Tomosane: Grr... Tomosane: Haaa... Haa... Yuki: You're tired already? How can you get tired in a dream? Tomosane: Shut up... Damn it... Yuki's right. Why am I breathing hard? This is just a dream. Yuki: Come on, you can do better than that. I'm disappointed. Now that I think of it... Why is Yuki so strong? She should be as strong as I am. Maybe it's because this is a dream? No, in that case... Yuki: What are you spacing out for? That's no good. Yuki: Now you're just getting sloppy. You're letting me hit you with both hands. Tomosane: Damn it! My attacks couldn't hit her. She avoided them all without difficulty. Why? Since this is a battle in a dream world, where our bodies don't really exist, there's no delay between our brain and our muscles. Because we don't have physical bodies here. Tomosane: Ah! How can I feel pain in a dream? I read in a book that you can hear, feel, taste, and smell in a dream. But it's supposed to be impossible to feel pain in a dream. So why am I feeling pain? What is... pain? Tomosane: Agh... I collapsed, falling to the ground. Tomosane: Haa, haa, haa... Even in the dream, it hurt to breathe. My entire body hurt. Why? Yuki: I didn't think you were that dim, Tomosane. Yuki: At this rate, you're gonna run out of time. Time... I'm going to run out of time? If I lose consciousness here, I might never wake up again. If this lucid dream ends, there will be nothing left for me except the end. I won't be able to protect Hasaki... Tomosane: Ugh... Aaaahh! Tomosane: Agh! Yuki: Being reckless won't help you now. If this was the real world, I could beat you just by breaking your body, right? Yuki: But in a battle between minds, what good does that do? Tomosane: A battle between minds... A battle happening between two minds. That's right. It hurt so bad, but it wasn't the real world. The world existed only in our minds. The pain I was feeling was only created by my mind. Only my mind. Yuki: Now that you've abused your body and gotten yourself all beaten up, do you understand? Or is this all going to end before you figure it out? Was there something I was supposed to understand from abusing my body? No... The truth is, I wasn't abusing my body at all. Then why did my body hurt so much? Tomosane: So much? It still hurt to breathe. Why did it hurt? Tomosane: It hurts... to breathe? Yuki: ... Tomosane: ... Mysteriously, Yuki smiled. Why? ... Was that the answer? The pain of breathing... Is that the answer? Tomosane: The reason it hurts to breathe in my dream is because... Because in this state of half-wakening, the mind mistakes the sleeping body for a waking one. In other words, it's the same as sleep paralysis. Tomosane: Sleep paralysis. Yuki: Only subjective time exists in a dream. If you believe that my attacks are unbelievably fast, then they will be. I felt that Yuki's attacks were fast. Not just fast... unavoidable. Like my body was submerged in lead. Tomosane: It's like my body's made of lead. Yuki: This mental world only has subjective time. Think about what it means that we're in a lucid dream. Yuki's attacks were terrifyingly fast. They were ridiculously fast, but somehow, I had started to see them with my eyes. But... But I couldn't dodge it. Yuki's fist struck me in the chest. Dull pain flowed through my breast. Tomosane: Gah... The shock from the blow sent me sprawling backward several steps. Tomosane: Next! It was a straight punch. The hardest strike to dodge, because the distance is the shortest. But this time I could follow its trajectory with my eyes. Then I realized for the first time... The sound of her fist cutting through air was stretched out, and everything I saw appeared to be in slow motion. Yuki's attacks weren't fast. I was just very slow. I took another punch, unable to dodge it. Pain ran through my body. But I noticed that the pain also seemed to spread more slowly. Everything was slower. That's right. Yuki wasn't particularly fast to begin with. What I hadn't realized before was how slow I was. Tomosane: Ah! After the attack, time sped up to normal speed again. In the moment when Yuki attacked... no, when either of us attacked, time slowed down to a crawl, like we were underwater. It was just like... Tomosane: A dream... Yuki: That's right. This is a dream, after all. This is a dream? I felt slow because it's a dream. My opponent was moving at normal speed, but my own body would hardly move. Something very common. And I assumed the reverse of that common occurence. I didn't think I was slow. I thought Yuki was just very fast. But that's not the truth. This happens all the time in dreams. Yuki: That's right. It happens all the time in dreams. So what are you going to do about it? Yuki attacked again. The sound of her attack was slowly transmitted to me as her fist moved forward. Yuki wasn't fast. I was slow. Even knowing that, there was nothing I could do to react. I misunderstood the truth, but the result was the same either way. Yuki's attacks hit, and mine missed. No matter how hard I tried to push my body, it wouldn't move fast enough. Quite the opposite. The more I thought about it, the slower my body got. The next one struck me in the face. Then a thought occurred to me. Does getting punched really hurt? I expected the dull pain to erupt in my cheek. And when I thought that... The pain stopped and disappeared. Yuki: You want to master the lucid dream, right? Master it? I was trying to learn about lucid dreams from Yuki. I didn't come here to learn how to fight. My skills hadn't atrophied to the point where I needed lessons from Yuki. And of course, my martial prowess couldn't be inferior to Mamiya Takuji's either. Tomosane: A lucid dream... I see. So that's what it is. I found a simple answer. The most natural answer. Tomosane: This isn't a lucid dream. Tomosane: This is just... a dream. Tomosane: No, since I'm partially awake, maybe it's cloer to sleep paralysis. Tomosane: Which means... Yuki moved to attack me again. I didn't dodge the attack. I didn't run. I moved straight foward to meet her fist. A lucid dream isn't just a dream that you recognize as a dream. It's a dream that you recognize for what it is, so that you can control it. Which I means I can alter the dream as I wish. It's said that there was a tribe in southeast Asia that had trained themselves in the art of lucid dreaming since ancient times. That technique involved recognizing a dream for what it was. For instance, the tribe members would talk about dreams with each other when they were awake. By talking about them, the dreams became encoded in language, assuming a form that could be more easily grasped and understood. And then, there was one thing they had to do when they realized it was a dream. That one thing was simply not running away. Most lucid dreams are born of nightmares. A nightmare happens when a person creates an embodiment of their anxiety in a dream. And then they fear the nightmare. No, in truth it is that embodiment of terror within the nightmare which they fear. There's no need to fear something in a dream. But no one is free from fear. Because they can't recognize that the dream is just a dream. Recognizing the dream for what it is. That alone isn't enough to create a lucid dream. A lucid dream is the inability to run from the embodiment of fear dwelling in the bottom of your heart. The important part is to conquer that fear. If you can beat back the fear... If in your dreams you feel no fear... Yuki: Oh, shoot... Yuki's attack didn't even graze me, cutting through the empty air. I moved to hit her while she was open. I clenched my fist. No hesitation. "I might not hit." "I might be powerless." "I might not win." Eliminate all doubt. All I could think in that moment... Tomosane: My fist will find its mark. Yuki: Whoa! My fist slammed into Yuki's cheekbone. There was no pain in my fist. Yuki was blown away, just like that. Tomosane: Yuki! Yuki: Oww! Hey now * take it easy."* Tomosane: S-Sorry. Yuki: Jeez. Then she rubbed her cheek, and her split lip healed back to normal. Yuki: And that's that. Tomosane: I see. So I was trying to have a lucid dream until now. Yuki: That's right. Tomosane: Then... what about the dream up until now? Yuki: It's your dream, of course. But it's my dream too. Yuki: We're just doing the same thing we did when we first met, only we're in the subconscious, in a dream, instead of fully conscious. Tomosane: Only in a dream? Yuki: That's right. Whenever we meet in the real world, that's not actually the real world. It's the exact same as this world. Yuki: It's a world contained within our minds. Yuki: When our entire brain is working all at once like that, for some reason we can't actually tell that we're fighting someone in our head, not a real person. Yuki: But the truth is, it's the same thing as this. Yuki: In our world, the person who wants it more gets the initiative. Yuki: You seem to be under the impression that Mamiya Takuji is the game master of this world and the two of us are just pawns on the chessboard, but you're wrong. Yuki: The fact is, there is no single game master who controls this world. Yuki: Reality bends to serve the person who believes harder. Yuki: That's why you wanted it to be a lucid dream. Yuki: So that you could pull Mamiya Takuji off his throne as the game master. Tomosane: Wait... If you can control lucid dreams, then why can't you stop Mamiya Takuji yourself? Yuki: You should've understood that from what just happened. A lucid dream is just believing in yourself and overcoming the fear within. Yuki: I can control dreams and subconscious worlds, but I can't control the real world. Tomosane: Is it possible to control the real world like that? Yuki: Right now, Mamiya Takuji absolutely believes that he can change the world by his will. He thinks he's the avatar of God on Earth. Tomosane: The avatar of God? Yuki: Yes. At some point he began to believe that he could control not only his own mind, but the entire world with his will. Yuki: There's no way my will could overcome someone like that, right? Tomosane: Maybe, but... Yuki: But what? If you think you can't beat him, you might as well give up now. Let me just say it now: if you're already hesitating, you won't win. Tomosane: Won't win... Yuki: Yeah... Tomosane: ... Tomosane: I remember you said this. Yuki: What? Tomosane: You said he was growing stronger, so this would be the end. Yuki: Yeah, that's right. Tomosane: That's not true. Yuki: Huh? Tomosane: I'm going to go find Hasaki before my battle with Mamiya. Yuki: Wait, that's impossible. There's no time... I understood what Yuki was saying. This lucid dream will disappear. Yuki's lucid dream will end here. As Yuki floated in unconsciousness, she must've even thought that she would never be able to rise to consciousness again. That's why she said this would be the end. I understand that. I understand... Tomosane: ...The time when you float to the surface. I felt the presentiment. No, I felt the certainty. The future I believe in is undoubtedly the future that will come to pass. If he's the son of God, sent to save the world... If he truly is the savior... Then I will destroy his claim to divinity. I will become the hero.
There was a noise. It was in the way. An unnecessary existence. Something that should be removed. It is. But, If your position changes, that too, Changes. A difference in perspective. What sounds like plain noise to one person could be a revelation to another. In the year 1964, two researchers doing experiments in communication technologies discovered a certain noise. The unexplainable noise vexed the two researchers, so they attempted to rule out every possible source of the noise. Every possible source of interference, from the din of traffic to plain old bird shit on the antenna. Even after removing all possible interference, the noise wouldn't go away. Later, they realized the noise being recorded had its source in the genesis of the universe. It became clear that this radiation was left over from the Big Bang. They won the Nobel Prize for their discovery. A simple noise brought them glory. Humanity gained new scientific knowledge because they noticed a noise. If the position changes, If the observer changes, A simple noise can be the calling to a whole new world. "I see. So that's how it is." "The location of the soul. The model of a samsaric world." "Three shadows on the wall, shadow puppets accelerating into oblivion." Tomosane: Why, you... "I have a name, you know." Tomosane: Who are you? "Who?" Tomosane: Tell me, who are you? "I'm not anyone. I'm only watching an unending armilla from afar." Tomosane: An unending armilla? "A model of time. How amusing. All within it are mere toys and souls to be played with." Tomosane: That voice... You're... Ayana: Hello, Mamiya-kun. I am Ayana. Who are you? Tomosane: I'm Mamiya Takuji. Ayana: Mamiya Takuji? That's a lie. Mamiya-kun is taking a little nap right now, you see. I made sure of that. ... What a bizarre response. I look like Mamiya Takuji to normal people. But the person standing before me had realized I wasn't Mamiya Takuji. And she just said he was taking... a nap? I could tell she wasn't a normal schoolgirl. Tomosane: I'm Yuuki Tomosane, and you're... Someone from a class in this school. I'm not sure, though. Tomosane: One of Minakami Yuki's acquaintances... I didn't know her myself, but memories of this girl were engraved in my hippocampus from Yuki's experiences. Ayana: Yes, and I'm acquainted with Mamiya-kun as well. Not to mention one other person. She pointed at me. Tomosane: We just met. I wouldn't say we're acquainted... And more importantly, why are you here? Ayana: Hehe, Mamiya-kun called for me. Tomosane: He called for you? Ayana: Yeah, I was just playing on the water tank, and Mamiya-kun came looking for me. That's why I'm here. Why would she be playing on the water tank in the middle of the night? I was a bit curious about that, but it didn't really matter to me. Tomosane: So he was looking for you... What then? Ayana: We talked. Mamiya-kun tried to touch my soul, and he broke. ... An even stranger response. Normally, I would just think she was a bit of a mysterious girl, but... But, somehow... I got the feeling that this girl wasn't normal. But that's why... Tomosane: All right. So there was a gap in his consciousness because he tried to touch your soul. What happened to Mamiya Takuji after that? Ayana: Isn't Mamiya Takuji always with you? Tomosane: But he's not here right now. Ayana: That's because you came here with a strong determination... Right? I came with a strong determination... Me? Tomosane: You said he broke, but should I take that to mean that Mamiya Takuji's consciousness was fractured? Ayana: Yes, there was a small fracture in Mamiya-kun's sense of self. You pushed through that fracture to get here. Tomosane: I pushed his consciousness aside... Ayana: Yes, which was quite the surprise indeed. The body you're inhabiting right now is almost entirely under Mamiya's control. Tomosane: Oh, so you were surprised that I came out... Maybe it was surprising, but... But... I at least wasn't surprised that it happened. That's right. I had a feeling this would happen. Waking up at the final battle with Mamiya Takuji... Being completely unable to find my consciousness in this world for even a moment before the battle... That's what Yuki said would happen. But... Ayana: You had a premonition. Tomosane: ...Yeah. Somehow, I knew I would wake up again. Why? Ayana: Whereof one cannot speak, thereof one must be silent. You should not peer lightly into the abyss. I would call that foolhardy, not brave. Tomosane: What do you mean? Ayana: More importantly, there's something important to you in this world, right? That's what anchored your consciousness to this world. Tomosane: Yeah... That's right. This girl's ramblings aren't important right now. The most important thing right now... The reason why I fought to reclaim a moment of consciousness... Ayana: Hehehe, at least you're honest. That's a good boy. Tomosane: Anyway, you said your name was Ayana? You have my thanks. Ayana: Why? Tomosane: I don't really understand, but you're the one who did this, right? Ayana: I don't understand either. ... I didn't know the reason. The only thing I knew for sure was that Mamiya Takuji tried to come in contact with her, and then he lost consciousness. Doubts still filled my mind. If Mamiya Takuji's soul was fractured by coming in contact with this girl... That meant she was capable of interacting with our souls, just like the three of us can. That's the same thing as sharing the same body with us, but... Ayana: I don't share your body. Tomosane: Yeah... And she could even read my mind. But right now... Tomosane: When will Mamiya Takuji's soul return? And when it does, what will happen to me? Ayana: Don't worry about him. He won't be coming back for quite a while. Probably not until just before dawn. Tomosane: Just before dawn? Ayana: Yes, he won't return until then. Just before the sun rises. You are the ruler of that body until the sky glows orange again. But... Tomosane: Once it does glow orange, he will return. So that's it... I looked at the time. It was the 17th, at 10:30 p.m. Hasaki had already returned home... Dawn would be after 4:30 a.m, so I just had to get home before then. If I hurried, I could make it in time. Tomosane: Whoa! Ayana: What? Tomosane: Wh-Why are you following me? Ayana: I'm going home too. I guess we're going the same way. Tomosane: No, we're not. You followed me down from the rooftop. Ayana: Oh, but... you should be careful on your way home. Tomosane: On my way home? The road home... That's right. I could tell something happened while I was unconscious. I learned how to control my lucid dreams, so I could perceive some of the things that Mamiya experienced. I wasn't as good as Yuki, so I didn't know the exact details, but I felt pretty sure that I was in a dangerous situation. Even if I didn't know the details, I was pretty sure there were people looking for me (at least here in the school). So I had to be careful in picking my route home. All right... Tomosane: Thanks for the advice. I'll take it to heart... Wait, what? ... I was just lost in thought for a moment, and she disappeared when I averted my gaze. When I looked again, there was no one there. Tomosane: Ayana... I didn't even hear her footsteps. It was like she had just vanished into thin air. But more importantly, I had something I needed to do. Tomosane: Haa, haa, haa... I went into the sewers through the old pool's entrance. When I was in the water storage tank, I thought I heard someone, but I was careful not to let them hear me. I just needed to get back home. I wanted to go through the sewers into the irrigation canal, and then out through the hole in the fence. I took the fire escape down from the third story, then cut across the courtyard, climbed down the manhole, and then went through the sewers and the irrigation canal. I knew I couldn't just walk out the front gate today. Tomosane: I'm a wanted man, apparently, and these guys know what they're doing. I took the ladder out of the irrigation canal and came out on the street I normally walked down to get to and from school. It didn't look like anyone was watching this route. I didn't feel any eyes on me. Tomosane: The train should still be running at this time of night. I had plenty of time to get home. Hasaki... I began to run. If I ran to Suginomiya and got on a train, I could get home before Hasaki went to sleep. My final battle would be tomorrow, just before dawn. I had to see her before the sun rises. There was still something I had to do. Tomosane: Haa, haa, haa... Why are all the lights off? Is she sleeping already?" Tomosane: Crap! Tomosane: Hasaki! There was no answer. I didn't even hear the echo of my own voice. It was like my voice had been absorbed by the thick black curtain of darkness that covered the room. Tomosane: Hasaki! Hasaki, are you there? I yelled for her over and over. There was no answer. Tomosane: Is she gone? Hasaki! I searched the entire house. I looked in her room first, and then I searched my room, the study, and all the empty rooms. The bathroom, the bathtub... She would've yelled at me if she was in the bath, but I wasn't worried about that. Tomosane: Hasaki! Hasaki was gone. She wasn't anywhere I looked. That's strange. Why isn't she home? Maybe she's at our mother's apartment? No, there's no way she would stay there late at night. Tomosane: Hasaki! Why? Why isn't Hasaki here? Did Mamiya Takuji take her? Tomosane: No, it's probably... That's not it. I really hope that's not it. If Mamiya Takuji tried to do something to Hasaki, there would definitely cause a disturbance in my consciousness. There would be some kind of disturbance or signal that I could feel. Thanks to Yuki's training, I could feel fragments of Mamiya's perceptions in the world of our subconscious. I would have definitely felt something if he had hurt Hasaki. Which means Mamiya Takuji hasn't done anything to Hasaki. I think... Tomosane: Then why isn't Hasaki here? Hasaki is gone... "Huh? Is that you, Tomosane-kun?" Tomosane: Ah! I instantly reacted to the voice behind me. I shouldn't have let my guard down, even if I was in my own house. I can't believe I let someone sneak up on me. If he hadn't called out, I would've been done for. Tomosane: Who are you?! "Wh-Whoa! Wait, wait!" Kimura: Ahahahaha, good evening. Tomosane: Wh-Why, you! Kimura: Um... You're Yuuki Tomosane-kun right now, aren't you? Tomosane: How do you know my name? And why are you in my house?! Kimura: Whoa, w-wait a second. You're looking for Hasaki-chan, aren't you? Tomosane: Did you take her?! Kimura: Wh-Why would I do that? W-Wait just a second, ah, ahh. Tomosane: Tell me! What did you do to Hasaki?! Kimura: Ah, ahh... Tomosane: ...Hey! Kimura: Th-There's a light at the end of the tunnel... Kimura: H-How rude! You nearly killed me! Tomosane: S-Sorry... You suddenly popped up behind me. Besides, I'm allowed to defend myself against intruders in my home. Kimura: I guess you do, but I have permission. Look, I have a key. Tomosane: Why do you have a house key? Did you― Kimura: No, no, Hasaki-chan asked me to wait here. She wanted me to tell her if you came back. Tomosane: Me? Kimura: Yeah, Hasaki-chan said she didn't really want to come back to this house. Tomosane: She doesn't? Hasaki said that? Kimura: Yeah. I think she said something like, 'There's no one left in this house who knows me.' Tomosane: Kimura... You seem to know my, well, our secret. Kimura: Yeah, you have multiple personality disorder, right? I could hardly believe it at first. I thought only real nutcases had that. Tomosane: So where is Hasaki right now? Kimura: She's at Hakushuukyou bar. The place where she works. Tomosane: At Hakushuukyou? Kimura: Yeah, I guess she's been staying there the past few nights. Master is protecting her. Tomosane: Master is? Kimura: Yeah. He was your teacher, right? I heard he was an instructor in an ancient style of martial arts, so if anyone can keep her safe, it's that person, right? It seems like the right decision to me. Tomosane: I see. So she was at the shop... Kimura: She was really down, too. She said the only personalities left were Mamiya Takuji and a new personality, right? Kimura: A new personality... Minakami Yuki-san, I think? Tomosane: I guess so... Tomosane: Wait. How do you know all of that? Kimura: Hasaki-chan trusts me. Tomosane: Damn it, Hasaki... This guy is just a shady reporter. Kimura: What? How am I shady? Tomosane: How are you not shady? Every time I see you, I wonder if you're going to get arrested today. Kimura: Oh, I've had a few run-ins with the police. So he has... I'm surprised he's still working this job. Kimura: But I'm not a bad person, you know? The Master at Hakushuukyou always consoles me, telling me I'm a real journalist. Tomosane: That means he wants your precious little boy hole. Kimura: Huh? Seriously? Tomosane: Either that, or he just wants to cheer you up so you'll spend some money. Kimura: Oh, that might be it. Tomosane: You're always interacting with the target of your investigations. Shouldn't you be hiding and watching, or something like that? Kimura: The target of my investigations is Mamiya Takuji. I'm pretty sure he doesn't know about me. Tomosane: Mamiya Takuji is your target? Kimura: Yeah, I'm not interested in you or Minakami Yuki-san. The one I'm interested in is Mamiya Takuji. Tomosane: Why? Kimura: You really don't know? I see. So you really aren't aware of what's happening when the other personalities are in control. Tomosane: No, I know a little bit about it. Mamiya Takuji is using the Internet to spread fear... And he's gathering people. Kimura: Huh? You know about it? I thought you didn't know anything about the times when you were unconscious? Tomosane: That was true before. Things have changed, and now I can tell a bit about what he's doing. Kimura: Really? Th-Then there's a lot I need to ask you. Like, on the night of the 15th, he called Akasaka Megu and Kitami Satoko to the site of the suicide, right? Tomosane: I told you, I only know a little bit. I don't know any details. Only the big picture. Kimura: Oh, really... That's too bad. Tomosane: More importantly... You're still following me, huh? Kimura: Of course. I was investigating the use of drugs among the youth, but then one of my leads died in an accident, and then a girl from that same school participated in a group suicide. Kimura: And then the teacher fell and died too! If I didn't investigate this, I wouldn't be a journalist. Tomosane: A journalist, huh? It's just a shitty, third-rate paper, isn't it? Kimura: Journalism is all about perseverance in the face of adversity. Maybe it's not a big national paper, but it's not third-rate, either. Tomosane: Well, that's a wonderful philosophy you have there, but I don't care. Kimura: So anyway, I can't meet Mamiya Takuji himself, but I have met the other personality... The new one. Kimura: Or maybe I should say I saw her? The one named Minakami Yuki-san, that is. Tomosane: How do you know you met her? We all look the same to you. Kimura: Yeah, the difference is pretty subtle. I would never guess you had multiple personalities if I hadn't been told. I'm surprised how good you guys are at camouflaging your three different personalities. Kimura: At first, I imagined that your voice, your attitude, and your choice of words would all change when your personality changed. Tomosane: But our choice of words does change, doesn't it? Kimura: I guess so, but even I use different words in different circumstances. I might say 'Excuse me.' to a stranger, but I would say 'I'm terribly sorry, Sir!' to my boss. Kimura: And someone's personality can vary too, depending on whether they're happy or sad, cheerful or depressed. It's really strange when you think about it. Tomosane: What is? Kimura: It's just something I thought about when I was watching you. You have multiple personalities, but the changes I could see were just normal things that could apply to anyone. Kimura: How can we be so sure that there's only one personality inside all the other people we know? Kimura: Having the same body isn't the same as having the same soul. And even someone's body can look completely different depending on the circumstances, right? Tomosane: That's why we say a person is 'nicer than he looks on the outside' or 'that person has changed.' Kimura: Yeah, we never know what someone's like on the inside. All those phrases exist because we believe the person we're talking to is just one, single person. Tomosane: Um, I don't have time to sit around and talk with you. It's really important that I see Hasaki. Tomosane: Let me thank you for the information, at least. I won't waste any more of your time. I ran to the entranceway. Kimura: W-Wait a second. Tomosane: Shut up. I told you I don't have time to talk to you. The last train is leaving soon. Kimura: The last train? You won't make it in time, even if you sprint the whole way. Tomosane: Well, that's too bad! Now get out of my way! Kimura: W-Wait! Tomosane: Shut up! I don't have time! Kimura: Hold on. I have a car. I can drive you over to the bar in Suginomiya. Tomosane: A car? Kimura: Yeah, besides, Hasaki told me to bring you over if you showed up. You don't need to worry about the train. Tomosane: O-Oh, okay. What's going on? I didn't expect that at all. I was riding in that shady journalist's, Kimura's, car. Apparently, this Kimura guy was pretty well acquainted with Hasaki and Master. Somehow, that happened without me knowing about it at all. But maybe I should've expected that. I had a vague sense of Mamiya Takuji and Minakami Yuki's experiences, but I didn't have a clue what was going on otherwise. I had no idea what Hasaki had been doing the past few days. I was just glad... I was glad to hear that she was safe. I opened the bar's distinctive, heavy door. How long has it been? It hadn't been that long. But it felt nostalgic, like I hadn't been there in months. Tomosane: Good evening. Is Hasaki here? Master: O-Oh? Kimura: Hello... It's me, Kimura. Master: Oh, does that mean... Hasaki: T-Tomo Nii-san? Tomosane: Yeah... It's me, Tomosane. Hasaki: Uwaaaah! Tomosane: Wh-Whoa, Hasaki. Hasaki: I thought I would never see you again. I was so sure. Things were just getting crazier and crazier with Takuji Nii-san. Tomosane: Crazy, huh? I guess so... Hasaki: You probably don't know what's been happening, but a lot of people have been dying and going missing. Tomosane: No, I can follow the traces of his memory. I do share the same brain with that bastard, for what it's worth. Master: Huh? You can do that? Tomosane: I learned how to do it just recently. I got a bit of training. Master: Hmm, and it seems like you've grown up a bit since I last saw you. Something's changed, for sure. Did something happen? Tomosane: Nothing in particular, really. After Mamiya Takuji beat me up, I spent a lot of time wandering through a dream. Master: A dream? Tomosane: Yeah. I met Yuki for a little while. Master: Yuki? Oh, I see. Hmm... Tomosane: What? Master gave me a knowing smile. Master: Hahahaha, I can still see a bit of her in you. Tomosane: Who? Master: Oh, nothing. I'm just talking to myself. Besides, don't you need to talk to Hasaki-chan about something? Tomosane: Yes. Master: Weren't you in a rush? Go right ahead. Tomosane: All right. Master: Hm? Tomosane: But first... Master! Master: What? Tomosane: Please step outside! Master: Outside? What, you want to talk to me alone? Tomosane: No. I'm telling you to step outside with me! Master: Huh? Master: You want to hook up?! Tomosane: No! I'm telling you to step your ass outside! Master: Hehehe... What's wrong? This is rare from you. Tomosane: It's not just rare. It's the first time... Asking your instructor to step outside is like suicide. Master: But you're still saying it? Tomosane: Yes... Please. Master: All right. Hasaki: Huh? Tomo Nii-san? Tomosane: The truth is, I came home just to tell you one thing, but there's something I have to confirm before I can say it. Hasaki: U-Um, Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: I had a dream... Hasaki: A dream? Master: That's what you said earlier. You met Yuki, right? Tomosane: Yes, I met Yuki, and she taught me how to control my dreams. Master: Controlling your dreams, huh? Like a lucid dream? Tomosane: You know about it? Master: Yeah, that state of mind is often used in the world of martial arts. Tomosane: Is it? Then I definitely need to ask you something, so please step outside. Master: Jeez, is that the hip new catchphrase that all the fresh meat are saying? Tomosane: Please don't call me fresh meat. That's disgusting. Hasaki: Huh? Wh-What? Hasaki: Master? Tomo Nii-san? Tomosane: Just give us a moment. Hasaki: B-But I haven't seen you in so long... Tomosane: Don't worry about me. I'll be right back. The location was... the roof of the bar. It wasn't very big. But it was still a lot bigger than the inside of a dojo. Though not nearly as big as the school's rooftop. Master: Let me ask you this first. Why did you learn to fight? Tomosane: I'm not really sure myself. Mamiya Takuji learned it, and that's how I met you. Master: That's not what I mean. Why did you continue to train? Master: Yuki and Takuji-kun didn't keep training, at least. You're the only one who continued to train under me. Tomosane: I don't know for sure. Master: Then let me change the question... Why are you standing before me now? Master: This is the last of the time you have left, isn't it? Why aren't you spending it with Hasaki-chan? Tomosane: Because... The last of the time I have left... No one told him this was the end. He must've figured it out when he saw my expression. Why didn't I spend the last time I had left with Hasaki-chan instead? Tomosane: One reason is... because I have to surpass my instructor. Master: Hehehehe... You're awfully confident. Don't you know how much stronger than you I am? Tomosane: Yes. I doubt I could win one match out of a hundred against you. That's what I truly believe. Tomosane: You're a lot stronger than me, you're much more skilled, and you have far more experience, too. Master: But you said you were going to surpass me, didn't you? Tomosane: Yes... That's my first goal. Master: Why is that? Tomosane: So that I can be with Hasaki forever. Tomosane: So that I can protect Hasaki from now on. Master: From now on? Forever? Tomosane: Yes, for the rest of my life. Tomosane: That's why I have to make the impossible possible. I have to fight a battle that I have no chance of winning. Master: A battle you can't win, huh? My battle with Mamiya Takuji. Certainly, I had no chance of winning that battle. What I knew for sure from my training with Yuki in the lucid dream was... The one thing that decides the victor in a battle between our different personalities is force of will. No, it's not force of will... It's simply the belief in one's own victory. If my power was greater than Mamiya Takuji's, my consciousness wouldn't have been sealed away until today by his. Since he was able to seal my consciousness away, that means Mamiya Takuji was stronger than I was. Master: Is the opponent you intend to fight really that strong? Stronger than me? Tomosane: He's not stronger than you are. If you fought him, I think you'd easily defeat him. Tomosane: But a battle between two people in the same body doesn't work the same way. Tomosane: The battle isn't decided by the body, but rather by the mind. Tomosane: And in that regard, there's a world of difference between us. Tomosane: So let me fight you, Master, since you're stronger and more skilled than me. Master: I see... So if you can beat someone who's stronger and more skillful than you, the deciding factor would be your indomitable willpower. Tomosane: Yes... and please don't hold back. Even if you were to break every bone in my body, you would at least put an end to Mamiya Takuji's crazy scheme. Master: In other words, you want me to send you to the hospital... Tomosane: Yes, and I'll fight with every intention of hospitalizing you, too. Master: Hmm... Master: Well, aren't you cocky... Don't worry, I'll fix that for you. The atmosphere changed. There was a different vibe in the air. That was my master's... Minakami Toshio's power. He was an instructor in the dojo for decades. He's been virtually undefeated for his entire life. The only stain on his record was a result of his fight with the master of the Mamiya dojo. And that master was my paternal grandfather. Mamiya Ryuu, the descendant of a family of ancient Shinto practitioners. Toshio's loss to my grandfather was the first and only loss he suffered. At the time, Minakami Toshio was about twenty years old, and my grandfather was already growing old. Toshio was so much taller and heavier that he made his opponent look like a child. But he was utterly defeated, without laying a single finger on my grandfather. Mamiya Ryuu was apparently quite exceptional, even among practitioners of the ancient martial arts. He had strong religious views, and the only people he bowed to were Shinto priests. Rather than calling him a martial artist, it would be more apt to say he was capable of wielding supernatural powers. Master: All right, then... Tomosane: Huh?! He wasn't fast or slow. There was no movement at all. It was like his leg didn't have to move because the floor had done the work for him and the distance shortened all by itself. Tomosane: Ugh?! I tried to take the blow as best I could, but he adapted to my movement. Right as he grabbed my wrist, my joint seized up on its own. Tomosane: Gwaaah! My body twisted in reaction, and then I was flipped over and smacked down on the ground. Of course, that was my intention. Otherwise, he would've broken my wrist. I should've been able to save myself from the fall, too. But I was so focused on protecting my wrist that the lower half of my body slammed right into the concrete below me. It was more than just painful. I lost all feeling in my body. I couldn't tell if I had broken a bone, or if I was just bruised. It happened all too quickly. Master: Haaaaa! A stomp. I moved my face, dodging it by mere centimeters. If I had taken that to the face, he would've smashed my head into the concrete. My skull would've split open on the concrete. Tomosane: Hmph! I took up my stance. He was right in my face again. No mercy. I instinctively protected my ears. I narrowly avoided a massive fist aimed right at my temple. For a second, I felt illusory pain, as if I had actually been hit. If I took a direct blow, I could actually die. Tomosane: Ah! Master: What? Tomosane, you're hardly putting up a fight. I'm still not going all out, you know? Tomosane: I know. Master: All right, good to hear. Tomosane: Ah! His fist found its mark. I could see blood where it landed. I couldn't defend myself at all. Tomosane: Guh... After all, Master had been practicing martial arts since long before I was even born. He was cut from a different cloth. And I heard rumors that he was a bouncer for the Yakuza before he started this bar. Apparently, that's how he got the money to buy this place. His skills weren't just for sport. He hadn't just trained for official matches. Master: Well, you should just be glad we're not inside. Tomosane: I know... but you're the one who would have a problem then, right? Master: Yeah. We would've broken everything. As a martial artist with years of experience as a bouncer, Master's weapons weren't limited to his hands and feet. His greatest weapons were the ground, the walls, glass bottles, knives, chairs... His skills could've put all of those to use. He didn't fight me inside, where all his weapons were, as a sign of his affection, I guess. But I was the one who picked this fight. I wonder if it was a good choice. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san! Tomosane: H-Hasaki? Kimura: Ahahaha, I couldn't stop her. She insisted... Hasaki: Master, stop it! Tomo Nii-san looks awful. Tomosane: Shut up! Just be quiet, Hasaki! I suddenly yelled at her. Damn it. I knew this would happen. That's why I didn't want her here. Hasaki: Ah... Master: Oh... Is that what you really want to say to her? Hasaki: ...I'm not going to shut up... Hasaki: I'm not going to shut up! Do... Do you understand how I feel seeing... Tomosane: I understand. Hasaki: You don't understand! You're only saying that because you don't understand! Tomosane: That's not true! Tomosane: It's not because I don't understand. I'm only saying this because I really do understand. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: I only came back because there was one thing I needed to tell you. Tomosane: If I say those words, then nothing else matters. Hasaki: That's what I mean! You don't understand at all! You can't just say one thing and leave! I want to sit and talk with you more... I want to talk with you as long as I can, Tomo Nii-san! Hasaki: But you always make up your mind and decide things on your own. Tomosane: Yeah, that's right. You're right, Hasaki. I'm always being stubborn and making selfish decisions. Hasaki: Then why is there just one thing? That's nowhere near enough! I want to talk to you more! Just one thing isn't enough! Tomosane: Hasaki... How many is enough? If this one thing I came to tell you isn't enough, then how many is? Hasaki: I don't know. I just want to talk to you more, more, more... As much as I can... That's all. Tomosane: Me too... Hasaki: Huh? Tomosane: I want to talk to you, Hasaki! Not just about one thing, but as much as I can! Tomosane: That's why I came here tonight to tell you this one thing! Hasaki: Huh? You mean... Tomosane: I won't disappear! I will beat Mamiya Takuji! And I'll still be here to protect you! Hasaki: T-Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: It won't be Yuki or Master protecting you... It will be me! Tomosane: Hasaki! I'll come home alive! I'll definitely come back for you! Tomosane: So don't worry! Hasaki: T-Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: I'll beat this stupid tranny, and then I'll beat Mamiya Takuji! Master: Who's a stupid tranny? That's not how you should talk to your master, especially after he just beat you up. Tomosane: Sorry, Master... I shouldn't have said that, but... Tomosane: I will defeat you! Master: I can see your knees quaking, you know? Tomosane: A warrior shakes with anticipation before a battle! Master: You've sure changed. Tomosane: I'm fed up with all this shit. I don't care about being cool and mysterious or whatever anymore. Tomosane: I'm totally done with that shit, so yeah, I've changed. My legs were trembling because of the damage I already took. I had lost all feeling in my hands and legs from getting hit so hard. I was covered in a colorful collage of blood and bruises. Anyone could tell that I was outmatched. A desperate situation. From the beginning, I knew it was impossible. If Master and I fight, he should win... And yet, I challenged him to a fight. Why? Because... Tomosane: Master, you never could beat the master back at the dojo, my grandfather. Master: Of course not. Who could? Master: This school of ancient martial arts, passed down from the Sengoku Period, has just a few hundred basic techniques. Master: There are tens of thousands of different combinations of those techniques. Master: But for him, that wasn't a problem. He had some sort of primal instinct... Well, that was a very religious dojo, and each successor to the dojo had something like psychic powers. Tomosane: That blood flows in my veins too... That's probably what I'm feeling right now. Tomosane: I gave you my word... Tomosane: Now it's my turn. Master: Your... turn? Tomosane: Controlling one's dreams... I only understood the meaning of those words by standing here before you, Master, in the real world. Master: Grr... Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san! He moved to block. He was more than just fast. His movements were completely unlike what they were before. He really was holding back. But then I remembered something. It was a story told by a master of Aikido. The time period was the beginning of the Showa era. It was right before a battle. The master visited a cannon inspections officer in the old Japanese army. When the master saw the test firing of the cannons, he looked at the officer and said this. "Those cannons couldn't hit me if they tried." Those words were the trigger, and the master had to prove them by standing out on the firing range. But there were six people firing at him with handguns. Each one had an effective range of 25 meters. Instead of wooden targets, they made the master stand and be their target. They started to count down before firing. One. Two. Three... All six guns fired simultaneously, kicking up a cloud of dust. It sounded like something had been thrown. Every man in the firing squad doubted his eyes. In the next instant, one of the six was thrown through the air. The master said this. A flash of light comes before the bullet... It's just a matter of dodging the flash. Or when your opponent has a sword, a glimmer of white will flash before the blade. If you dodge the glimmer, then you will also dodge the sword. Which means that dodging is simple. The words of the master. The master's name was Ueshiba Morihei, and his best pupil, Shioda Gouzou, himself among the greatest practitioners of Aikido, spoke of "psychic powers" in reference to the master. He said that such powers couldn't be explained by practice and dedication, but that they must have come from some unknown power the master held. It's said that Ueshiba Morihei was very religious. Much like Mamiya Ryuu. Everyone who saw my grandfather fight said that he hardly even moved to dodge an attack. It looked more like his opponents were intentionally missing. That's the impression he gave. If that was just a trick... Then I was about to take a direct hit. But I didn't dodge the attack. This is blood... This feeling which I first understood in a lucid dream... I wanted to test whether it applied to the real world as well. My instincts told me that it would definitely work. Master: ...Huh? Master's attack sailed past me, cutting through empty air. His fist grazed my ear, lacerating the side of my face, but that didn't matter. To hit Master back, I had to find an opportunity to get close, just like this. I clenched my fist. No hesitation. "I might not hit." "I might be powerless." "I might not win." That's not the end of the story about the Aikido master. A man who made a living hunting wild beasts tracked him down after hearing rumors about him. When held at gunpoint, this is what he said. "This battle... is over." "Because your bullets will hit." Why? The guns held by the firing squad were all aimed at a person. But the master said this to the hunter. You don't aim your bullets. You simply believe that they will hit. Maybe it's a ridiculous story, but now I think I understand what it means. Master's fists were far slower than bullets. I avoided them, and then countered without hesitation. I didn't need to aim. I only needed to hit. Eliminate all doubt. All I could think in that moment... Tomosane: My fist will find its mark. Master: Ugh! I drove my fist into the pit of his stomach. Master: Whoa... Take... it easy... Master collapsed on the spot. Tomosane: ...I did it! Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san! You're covered in bruises... Kimura: Wow... He won. Master: Hey, isn't anyone worried about me? Hasaki: Does it hurt? Tomosane: I would be lying if I said it didn't. The two of us, alone on the roof... Master gave us some privacy. Still, she didn't have to bring the first-aid kit up here just for me. Hasaki: You're covered in bruises. Tomosane: Well, I got in a bit of a fight. Of course I am. Hasaki: Why would you do that? Jeez, Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: I told you. I did it so I could protect you. Hasaki: But... Tomosane: So that I can be with you from now on. Hasaki: You'll be with me... from now on? Tomosane: Yeah, that's right. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san, you won't go away? Tomosane: Of course not. I'm not going anywhere. We can talk for as long as you want. Hasaki: Really? Tomosane: Really. Hasaki: But you always lie to me like that. Tomosane: Heh... I guess I do. Hasaki: Honestly, I want to tie you up with duct tape so you can't go anywhere. Tomosane: That might work. Hasaki: Yeah, but... Hasaki: I believe in you, Tomo Nii-san... Hasaki: I've been betrayed so many times before, but I still believe in you, Tomo Nii-san. Tomosane: Why? I'm such a good-for-nothing brother. Hasaki: Because you're my hero. Tomosane: Hero? Hasaki: That's right. The hero is stronger than the savior. Tomosane: What? That doesn't make any sense. Hasaki: But it's true. Tomosane: You're right. Tomosane: I'm stronger than him. Tomosane: I definitely won't lose. As I laid my head in her lap, Hasaki brought her face closer to mine. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: Wha-?! For a moment, I didn't know what had happened. When I finally realized what had occurred... Hasaki's lips were pressed against my own. Hasaki's lips were tinged with a darker shade of red than before, and they were ever so slightly moist. Tomosane: H-Hasaki?! Hasaki: Oh, I'm... sorry. Sorry, I just... Tomosane: Y-You just... Hasaki: I-I said sorry! Sorry! I'm sorry! Hasaki: Auh... Hasaki averted her eyes, but I could see her cheeks blazing red. I couldn't look straight at her, either. Tomosane: Hasaki... Hasaki: Sorry... Hasaki: But... that kiss wasn't a joke. Hasaki: Ahahaha... It wasn't a joke. Does that make it worse? Hasaki: But I've always... wanted to do that. Hasaki: You're the only one for me, Tomo Nii-san. Tomosane: But I'm your brother... Hasaki: You only say you're my brother when it suits you. Every other time you act like we're just strangers. Tomosane: Hasaki... Hasaki: But... I do the same thing. Hasaki: I was glad we were brother and sister, since it meant we could be together forever... But I didn't want to be brother and sister if it meant that we couldn't be any more than that. Tomosane: Hasaki... Hasaki: So I did the same thing in my mind... I wanted to be siblings when it was convenient for me. Sorry. Tears rolled down her cheeks and dripped onto my face. Why is she crying? Why is she sad? Tomosane: Hasaki... I brought my hand to Hasaki's tear-stricken cheek. It was very warm and soft. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... I... I... More tears poured from her eyes. Hasaki's tears fell in drops on my face, one after another. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san, I wish you really were a complete stranger, someone with the surname Yuuki... Tomosane: But then we couldn't have lived together. Hasaki: Yesterday, you were a Mamiya, but from today on, you should be a Yuuki... Then I would... I would... The girl I wanted to protect. I lived my life thinking only of her. Yuki said it too. Hasaki was always the only girl in my heart. At the time, I thought maybe she was exaggerating. But now I can say it. Tomosane: Yeah. I've always felt the same way, Hasaki. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: You dummy... That's why I was avoiding you. Tomosane: I was always fond of you. And at some point, you became more than just a little sister to me. Tomosane: I knew that my feelings had changed, so I avoided you. Tomosane: I was afraid of admitting how I felt, so I avoided you. Tomosane: So please don't cry, Hasaki. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... Our lips came together once again. At some point, I had even forgotten. I always held feelings for Hasaki that were more than just brotherly affection. Perhaps even from the moment I came into existence... Or maybe I loved Hasaki long before then, before I even existed at all. That's what I think. I slowly undid the buttons on Hasaki's clothes. I opened her blouse, revealing her modest breasts that moved up and down with the rhythm of her breathing. Her white skin was tinged with a flush of pink. I perceived a slight, sweet fragrance. I embraced her petite body, afraid that it might shatter between my fingers. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... As we held each other, we kissed again. Hasaki's body was so small and frail. The one girl who I would always protect. Hasaki: Do you want to? Tomosane: You dummy... What are you talking about? Hasaki: Oh, uh... Well, you know... Who gets to decide whether one person is allowed to love another person? God? But I've never believed in God. God can eat shit, for all I care. If some capricious god decided to punish us for this after standing by and idly watching all the calamities in the world... Then I would kick his ass. Restrictions on love are bullshit. There are no rules for falling in love. I embraced Hasaki. As proof of my love... So that I wouldn't disappear... So that we could fortify our bonds... Hasaki said... Hasaki: Please, go all the way. When I unhooked her bra, her small breasts jiggled a little bit. Just a little bit, though. At that moment, Hasaki glared at me. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san, your thoughts are written all over your face. Tomosane: Th-Then don't look at my face. There was a quivering pink bud on the tip of each breast. I touched her soft, supple, rosy skin gently, like touching an ice sculpture that might break under the slightest pressure. Hasaki: Ah... Tomo Nii-san... She let out a quiet moan, reacting to my fingers on her sensitive skin. I kissed the nape of her neck. I moved my hands up to her chest, touching her hard, protruding nipples. Hasaki: Aaahh... Mnghaaa! Her body jumped in surprise. I felt a bit of warmth under my fingers. Her skin was slick with sweat. I ran my fingers down her stomach, moving down. She started at my touch again. Hasaki: Ah... Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: Hmm? What's wrong? Hasaki: U-Um... Hasaki looked down and mumbled. Hasaki: P-Please, go ahead... Go ahead, huh? Go ahead and do what? Hasaki: Uaaahhh... My finger found its way between her soft folds. She didn't even have any pubic hair. Well, that's about what I expected. I could tell she was already getting wet from the sound of my fingers inside her. I gently moved my fingers back and forth. Hasaki: Mm, Aahh... T-Tomo Nii-san... Ahhh... Tomosane: What's wrong? Why are you covering your mouth? Hasaki: Um, well, I have to cover my mouth or someone will hear. Tomosane: Who cares if they hear? Hasaki: This is Hakushuukyou, you know. I can't do that. They'll hear us down there. Hasaki: Mm? Hasaki covered her mouth again so her voice wouldn't leak out. Hasaki: Ahh... Haaa... Nghaaa Hasaki: Mngh... Aaah... Ahhh! Aaahhh! But it was pointless. Her hand slipped from time to time, letting her moans slip out. Hasaki: Haa, haa... Tomosane: Whoa, whoa, you don't look so good, Hasaki. Hasaki: U-Um... When I covered my mouth, I couldn't really breathe, so I didn't have enough oxygen. Tomosane: I can tell. Don't push yourself, all right? I brushed my lips against Hasaki's again. I wrapped my tongue around her nipple. First I batted it with the blade of my tongue, then I used just the tip to flick her nipple. Hasaki still covered her mouth and tried not to moan. I could see beads of sweat on her forehead. As I stimulated her chest with my tongue, I traced the folds of her hot flower with my fingers, then I softly touched her clitoris. Hasaki: Ah! My fingers, wet with her juices, gently rubbed the button between her legs. Hasaki's body convulsed in waves, and her garden of flowers pulled my fingers deeper inside. Hasaki: Ah... They're going to hear... Tomosane: Don't worry about it. Hasaki: Haa, haa... B-But what if Master and Kimura-san hear... Tomosane: It won't be a problem. Hasaki: Ah! I rolled her clit with my thumb. I put a bit more force into my thumb on her clit, and the prepuce rolled back easily, exposing her swollen red button. Hasaki: Hnn, aaannnh!!! She arched backward and then fell limp after moaning from the wave of pleasure. Tomosane: Hasaki... Are you sure? Hasaki: W-Why are you asking me? Tomosane: You're right. Sorry... Hasaki looked up at me with cloudy eyes. I bent Hasaki's knees and placed my member against her petals before driving it inside of her. Hasaki: Aaah...! Although something resisted my entrance. So much so, that it made me want to pull my hips back the moment I saw her grimace in pain. Hasaki didn't let me, though. Instead, she wrapped her hands around my waist and pulled me toward her. Hasaki: Khhhaaa... I burrowed deeper inside of her. She seemed at ease once I was fully inside of her. Tomosane: Does it hurt? Hasaki: No, not at all... I'm actually happy. Because... we're finally... Hasaki: We're finally one... Tomosane: ... Hasaki: Ah, you can move... Tomo Nii-san. Tomosane: But doesn't it hurt? Hasaki: Didn't I just say it doesn't hurt? I'm happy... I gently stroked her head, then slowly began to move my hips. A streak of blood trickled out from her petals. Hasaki: Mngh... Aaah... Uuunnn... Kh... I kissed her cheek as I thrust inside of her. Hasaki responded by moving her face so that our lips could meet. Our tongues soon connected. Hasaki: Mm... We tightly embraced one another. Our skin pressed together. The warmth of our two bodies melted into one. I cherished the touch of her skin. Her nails dug into my back. She likely wasn't even aware of that. However, that pain made me feel a bit better. Because it really bothered me that I was the only one feeling pleasure when she was in such pain. "Until the very end..." That was her wish. Tomosane: Hasaki, I'm gonna... Hasaki: Ah... Keep going... please... Tomo Nii-san... please... Tomosane: All right... I'm gonna... cum inside you... Hasaki: Please, Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: Ahh... My member swelled up, releasing semen deep inside her. Tomosane: Ugh! Hasaki: Aaahh... Tomosane: Aaaahhh! We became one under the great blue sky. We didn't have a long time together, but it was the first moment that we had become more than just brother and sister. Under this sky... Hasaki and I became one.
Our lips came together once again. At some point, I had even forgotten. I always held feelings for Hasaki that were more than just brotherly affection. Perhaps even from the moment I came into existence... Or maybe I loved Hasaki long before then, before I even existed at all. That's what I think. I slowly undid the buttons on Hasaki's clothes. I opened her blouse, revealing her modest breasts that moved up and down with the rhythm of her breathing. Her white skin was tinged with a flush of pink. I perceived a slight, sweet fragrance. I embraced her petite body, afraid that it might shatter between my fingers. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... As we held each other, we kissed again. Hasaki's body was so small and frail. The one girl who I would always protect. Hasaki: Do you want to? Tomosane: You dummy... What are you talking about? Hasaki: Oh, uh... Well, you know... Who gets to decide whether one person is allowed to love another person? God? But I've never believed in God. God can eat shit, for all I care. If some capricious god decided to punish us for this after standing by and idly watching all the calamities in the world... Then I would kick his ass. Restrictions on love are bullshit. There are no rules for falling in love. I embraced Hasaki. As proof of my love... So that I wouldn't disappear... So that we could fortify our bonds... Hasaki said... Hasaki: Please, go all the way. When I unhooked her bra, her small breasts jiggled a little bit. Just a little bit, though. At that moment, Hasaki glared at me. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san, your thoughts are written all over your face. Tomosane: Th-Then don't look at my face. There was a quivering pink bud on the tip of each breast. I touched her soft, supple, rosy skin gently, like touching an ice sculpture that might break under the slightest pressure. Hasaki: Ah... Tomo Nii-san... She let out a quiet moan, reacting to my fingers on her sensitive skin. I kissed the nape of her neck. I moved my hands up to her chest, touching her hard, protruding nipples. Hasaki: Aaahh... Mnghaaa! Her body jumped in surprise. I felt a bit of warmth under my fingers. Her skin was slick with sweat. I ran my fingers down her stomach, moving down. She started at my touch again. Hasaki: Ah... Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: Hmm? What's wrong? Hasaki: U-Um... Hasaki looked down and mumbled. Hasaki: P-Please, go ahead... Go ahead, huh? Go ahead and do what? Hasaki: Uaaahhh... My finger found its way between her soft folds. She didn't even have any pubic hair. Well, that's about what I expected. I could tell she was already getting wet from the sound of my fingers inside her. I gently moved my fingers back and forth. Hasaki: Mm, Aahh... T-Tomo Nii-san... Ahhh... Tomosane: What's wrong? Why are you covering your mouth? Hasaki: Um, well, I have to cover my mouth or someone will hear. Tomosane: Who cares if they hear? Hasaki: This is Hakushuukyou, you know. I can't do that. They'll hear us down there. Hasaki: Mm? Hasaki covered her mouth again so her voice wouldn't leak out. Hasaki: Ahh... Haaa... Nghaaa Hasaki: Mngh... Aaah... Ahhh! Aaahhh! But it was pointless. Her hand slipped from time to time, letting her moans slip out. Hasaki: Haa, haa... Tomosane: Whoa, whoa, you don't look so good, Hasaki. Hasaki: U-Um... When I covered my mouth, I couldn't really breathe, so I didn't have enough oxygen. Tomosane: I can tell. Don't push yourself, all right? I brushed my lips against Hasaki's again. I wrapped my tongue around her nipple. First I batted it with the blade of my tongue, then I used just the tip to flick her nipple. Hasaki still covered her mouth and tried not to moan. I could see beads of sweat on her forehead. As I stimulated her chest with my tongue, I traced the folds of her hot flower with my fingers, then I softly touched her clitoris. Hasaki: Ah! My fingers, wet with her juices, gently rubbed the button between her legs. Hasaki's body convulsed in waves, and her garden of flowers pulled my fingers deeper inside. Hasaki: Ah... They're going to hear... Tomosane: Don't worry about it. Hasaki: Haa, haa... B-But what if Master and Kimura-san hear... Tomosane: It won't be a problem. Hasaki: Ah! I rolled her clit with my thumb. I put a bit more force into my thumb on her clit, and the prepuce rolled back easily, exposing her swollen red button. Hasaki: Hnn, aaannnh!!! She arched backward and then fell limp after moaning from the wave of pleasure. Tomosane: Hasaki... Are you sure? Hasaki: W-Why are you asking me? Tomosane: You're right. Sorry... Hasaki looked up at me with cloudy eyes. I bent Hasaki's knees and placed my member against her petals before driving it inside of her. Hasaki: Aaah...! Although something resisted my entrance. So much so, that it made me want to pull my hips back the moment I saw her grimace in pain. Hasaki didn't let me, though. Instead, she wrapped her hands around my waist and pulled me toward her. Hasaki: Khhhaaa... I burrowed deeper inside of her. She seemed at ease once I was fully inside of her. Tomosane: Does it hurt? Hasaki: No, not at all... I'm actually happy. Because... we're finally... Hasaki: We're finally one... Tomosane: ... Hasaki: Ah, you can move... Tomo Nii-san. Tomosane: But doesn't it hurt? Hasaki: Didn't I just say it doesn't hurt? I'm happy... I gently stroked her head, then slowly began to move my hips. A streak of blood trickled out from her petals. Hasaki: Mngh... Aaah... Uuunnn... Kh... I kissed her cheek as I thrust inside of her. Hasaki responded by moving her face so that our lips could meet. Our tongues soon connected. Hasaki: Mm... We tightly embraced one another. Our skin pressed together. The warmth of our two bodies melted into one. I cherished the touch of her skin. Her nails dug into my back. She likely wasn't even aware of that. However, that pain made me feel a bit better. Because it really bothered me that I was the only one feeling pleasure when she was in such pain. "Until the very end..." That was her wish. Tomosane: Hasaki, I'm gonna... Hasaki: Ah... Keep going... please... Tomo Nii-san... please... Tomosane: All right... I'm gonna... cum inside you... Hasaki: Please, Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: Ahh... My member swelled up, releasing semen deep inside her. Tomosane: Ugh! Hasaki: Aaahh... Tomosane: Aaaahhh! We became one under the great blue sky. We didn't have a long time together, but it was the first moment that we had become more than just brother and sister. Under this sky... Hasaki and I became one.
Once Hasaki calmed down and went to sleep, I quietly got up. It's all right, Hasaki. I'm not a liar. I will definitely come home. Then we can talk as much as we want. I will protect you. Always. Tomosane: Now then... I still had a little bit of time left before dawn. "Though, to be honest, I don't know how long it is till sunrise. It would be easier if it was just 4:30." Dawn is approximately that time, but it's hard to tell when he's actually going to come back. It would be really bad if he showed up while I was here with Hasaki. Tomosane: I need to find a deserted place so we don't drag anyone else into this. I guess that means the rooftop. When I left the rooftop last time, I didn't lock it, so it should still be open. That should work. "Are you going?" Tomosane: Haa... You're onto me, huh? Kimura: Are you going to fight Mamiya Takuji? Tomosane: Who knows? Kimura: I think you do. Otherwise, there would be no reason to fight your Master. Tomosane: Don't tell Hasaki. Kimura: You're keeping it a secret from Hasaki-chan? Tomosane: There's no reason to tell her. I'm going to come home alive. Kimura: I see... Kimura: Where are you going to do it? Tomosane: Does it really matter? Kimura: I guess not... All right. Tomosane: ...Hey. Tomosane: Um, if something happens to me... Tomosane: Look after Hasaki for me... Please. Kimura: ... Kimura: Ahaha... You've never been polite to me before. Tomosane: There's a certain way to ask a favor of someone... And besides, I might've misunderstood you. Tomosane: It seems like you helped her out a lot while I was gone. Kimura: That might've just been convenient for me too, you know. Tomosane: Then I'm glad that it was convenient for you to protect Hasaki. I have to thank you. Kimura: Oh? That's awfully nice of you. I'm not used to hearing that from you. Tomosane: Well, I really am thankful. Tomosane: So if anything happens to me, please continue to take care of her. Kimura: All right, but nothing's going to happen, right? You're going to win and end this whole mess. Tomosane: Yes, and your investigation will probably end here too. I'm going to put it all to an end. Kimura: Really? Tomosane: Yeah, I'll end it. I returned to the school rooftop before sunrise. The place where I'll spend the last of my remaining time. Tomosane: No, I have to fight so that this isn't the last... I wanted this time just so that I could say one thing to Hasaki. To be honest, I don't know if I can keep my promise. No, there's a pretty good chance I can't. I did win against Master, but... My fight with Mamiya Takuji will be on a different level altogether. Tomosane: Ayana... Ayana: You came back to this place. Tomosane: Yeah... The place doesn't really matter, though. Ayana: But you chose this place. Tomosane: I thought this was the most suitable place... So where is Mamiya Takuji? Ayana: You still have a little bit of time left. Tomosane: Oh... Tomosane: Do you know what he's planning to do? Ayana: He's trying to return it all to the sky. Tomosane: Yeah, that's right. Ayana: To the End Sky... Tomosane: The End Sky... What is that? Ayana: It's just a name. It doesn't speak of anything. Tomosane: Oh... It's just a name? Ayana: Yes. Tomosane: Really? Then let me ask you a question. What are you? Ayana: Me? I'm called Otonashi Ayana. Tomosane: But that's just a name, isn't it? That doesn't explain anything. Ayana: Hehehe, then what are you? Tomosane: Me? I'm Yuuki Tomosane... And... I tried to say something... But the words caught in my throat. I tried to speak of myself, but I was lost for words. Hahahaha... That's right. That's just how it is. In talking about oneself, it's impossible to say anything more than you could find on a person's resume. The woman in front of me wore the same school uniform as I did. I could tell from the color of the trim that she was in the same year as me. She was female, and I was male. For the two of us standing there and looking at each other, there was nothing else for either of us to say. What are you? That's such a vague question... A meaningless question. Tomosane: I guess that's about right. I'm Yuuki Tomosane―nothing more and nothing less. Ayana: Okay. Then let me ask you a question. Tomosane: A question? Ayana: Yes. A question I asked both Mamiya-kun and Minakami-san. Tomosane: What question? Ayana: Tomosane-kun, are you afraid of dying? Tomosane: Dying? Huh? That's a very straightforward question, isn't it? Tomosane: But still... Several people have died in the past week or so. In this school alone, three people have died. Tomosane: A week that stinks like death. Many students have gone missing as well, and it's likely for the same reason. Tomosane: And the person who's behind it all is... Mamiya Takuji. Ayana: Mamiya-kun was afraid of Takashima-san's prophecy... And of his mother's prophecy. Tomosane: So it seems. I don't know much about Takashima's prophecy, but I know what his mother said. It was carved deep into his memory. Tomosane: The world will be destroyed. All existence will cease, and the world will be erased. Tomosane: What Mamiya Takuji was afraid of was his mother's prophecy... and by extension, death itself. Ayana: Fear of the prophecy is the same as fear of death, as well as fear of the prophesied erasure. Ayana: Are you afraid too? Tomosane: Hehehehe... Me? Before, I would've said this. Ayana: Said what? Tomosane: I'm not really afraid of dying. I'm destined to disappear, after all. Ayana: Destined... Tomosane: I'm just a personality created to destroy Mamiya Takuji... Or maybe I should say I was just a personality? Ayana: Mamiya-kun, the Creator, Minakami-san, the Harmonizer, and then Tomosane-kun, the Destroyer. This woman knows everything. No wonder she always puts me on edge. To think that she knows so much about us... It's almost like our souls are connected. But she's different from us. She's not one of the personalities inhabiting this body. Then what is she? It's clear that she's not a normal person. Which means she's another irregularity, but she's not quite the same as us... Ayana: What's wrong? Tomosane: Nothing... Tomosane: What you were just talking about, with the Creator, the Harmonizer, and the Destroyer... He was the one who put that system in place. Tomosane: But this is the end result. The Creator is trying to destroy the Destroyer. Tomosane: Mamiya Takuji couldn't accept his own fate of destruction. Tomosane: No, that's not quite right. There simply weren't enough actors on stage. You could even say that Mamiya Takuji released me from my role as the Destroyer. Tomosane: Which means that I've lost my fate. Ayana: What will you do now that you've lost your fate? Tomosane: Now I should just wait to be destroyed and erased by the Creator. That's how Mamiya Takuji's new script reads. Ayana: Are you afraid of being erased? Tomosane: Of course I'm afraid. I'm afraid of being erased, and I'm afraid of pain. Either way, it's terrifying. Death is a thing to be feared. Ayana: Then you don't want to die? Tomosane: Don't want to die? I'm not sure... I don't know what that question is supposed to mean. Ayana: But you're afraid of death. Tomosane: Yeah, of course. But somehow, all of the other things in this world which people fear doing, becoming, or happening are things that can actually be experienced, except death. Ayana: The doing, the becoming, and the happening... Tomosane: Exactly. For instance, most people wouldn't want to be tortured... Maybe a real masochist would want it, though. Tomosane: Or else they don't want to go bankrupt. They don't want to become homeless. Tomosane: But those are things which are possible to experience, so it's possible to fear the doing, the becoming, and the happening of them. Tomosane: But there is no way to experience death. Tomosane: Death is all around us. Even the nearest graveyard is full of dead people. And yet there isn't a single person who has experienced death. Tomosane: Death is impossible to experience. That's the first principle. Tomosane: Taking something which is impossible to experience and speaking of it in the same breath as things which can be experienced strikes me as a perversion of logic. Ayana: We cannot speak of that which can't be experienced the same way as that which can. Tomosane: Yeah, that's right. But people speak of death as if it could be experienced. Why is that? Ayana: Why? Tomosane: I don't really know myself. Maybe death only has meaning because it's a perversion of logic. Ayana: Death only has meaning because it is a perversion... Tomosane: Yeah... Isn't that what a perversion is? Tomosane: At first, sex was just an act of biological reproduction. However, various perverted ideas throughout history have led people to think all things, create all things, and do all things of which they are capable. Tomosane: Sexual fetishes, for example. But not only that. Also, romantic love. Physical lust and romantic love are impossible to tease apart. Tomosane: So how did Mamiya Takuji respond when you asked him that question? Ayana: He was angry. He wouldn't allow himself to admit that he was afraid of death. Tomosane: I see... What about Yuki? Ayana: About the same as you. No one can experience death. It is impossible for a human being to experience death. Ayana: Let us reflect in another way, and we shall see that there is great reason to hope that death is a good; for one of two things, either death is a state of nothingness and utter unconsciousness, or, as men say, there is a change and migration of the soul from this world to another. Tomosane: Socrates, huh? Sounds like Yuki... Ayana: And these were Socrates' last words. Ayana: The hour of departure has arrived. Ayana: And we go our separate ways, I to die, and you to live. Ayana: Which of these two is better only God knows. Ayana: Then holding the cup to his lips, quite readily and cheerfully he drank off the poison. Tomosane: I see... But I'm confused. These words from the great philosopher of ancient times... I wonder if his answer really was correct. Tomosane: Everyone knows that. Ayana: Everyone? Tomosane: Socrates' words... To modern people, the meaning is almost too obvious. Tomosane: Even now, at this very moment, there are people dying. Tomosane: From the distant past until now, an unbelievably large number of people have died. Tomosane: Especially in this country, a great number of people have died without believing in any afterlife. Tomosane: People die every day with the understanding that death is not the road to another world, but rather simple oblivion. Tomosane: When you think about it, it's really bizarre. Death is the most terrifying thing within each of us, so we all think of it as the worst tragedy that could ever befall us. Tomosane: And yet people die every day. People die and it doesn't even matter. Tomosane: If death was such a frightful thing, there would be revolution every day as the people desperately tried to escape their deaths. Tomosane: But the truth is far from it. Most people don't thrash or cry in fear of their death. They simply die. Tomosane: Well, it is true that many people experience regret when sentenced to death, but at the moment of death, they are perfectly calm. Tomosane: In other words, everyone knows that death isn't worth lamenting. It's perfectly obvious. Tomosane: It's a perverted impulse that even leads people to contemplate death. Ayana: Then you aren't afraid of dying? Tomosane: No, I'm afraid. Of course I am, but I don't fear it any more than everyone else on this planet. Ayana: Everyone fears death? Tomosane: Yeah... It's the same reason that a newborn infant cries, don't you think? Ayana: The reason a newborn infant cries... Tomosane: One who came before existence might loathe existence just as we loathe death. Tomosane: For instance, if a newborn infant cried to curse its own life... Tomosane: I actually... had a dream like that several times. Ayana: A dream? Tomosane: Yes, a dream. It was a premonition. Tomosane: I'm sure it was a premonition. Ayana: What kind of premonition? Tomosane: A baby is born. Ayana: Whose? Tomosane: I don't know. Tomosane: I don't know, but... Tomosane: A baby is born. Tomosane: And that baby... cries. Tomosane: Wah, wah... Tomosane: Everyone laughs as they hear the baby cry. Tomosane: They all bless the child. Tomosane: The mother... Tomosane: The father... Tomosane: And everyone else in the room. Tomosane: The child's life... Tomosane: They bless it. Tomosane: The world is full with blessings for life. Tomosane: However... Tomosane: However, that's wrong. Tomosane: And then... Tomosane: I... Tomosane: I alone feel fear. Tomosane: Fear. Tomosane: Because... Tomosane: The baby is cursing the world. Tomosane: Truly... Tomosane: The newborn baby curses the world into which he is born. Tomosane: He curses the very fact that he was born. Tomosane: I... Tomosane: I freeze in that spot. Tomosane: As everyone laughs. Tomosane: In blessed ignorance. Tomosane: I alone... Tomosane: I stumble... Tomosane: I stumble and stagger, but somehow... Tomosane: I come closer to that baby. Tomosane: And I try to stop its crying. Tomosane: And I know I have to do this. Tomosane: Why? Tomosane: I don't know why, but... Tomosane: That baby, you know? Tomosane: He was born. Tomosane: And I think about the cruelty in my life. Tomosane: And I think... Tomosane: That this could be... Tomosane: This could be my one way to atone for my sins. Tomosane: Sins against who? Tomosane: Probably... Tomosane: Against that baby... Tomosane: And... Tomosane: Against something else, too... Tomosane: I think... Tomosane: I would strangle that newborn baby. I would try to end his life right there. Tomosane: I would end his life. Tomosane: As everyone else laughed. Tomosane: I would... I would put my hands around his neck. Tomosane: But... Tomosane: I can't do it. Tomosane: With my hands around the neck of that crying baby... Tomosane: I... Tomosane: I can't bring myself to throttle him. Tomosane: Why? Tomosane: Why is that? Tomosane: Even as I'm confronted with my one means of atonement, I can't do it. Tomosane: Though I know I must bring an end to his cries. Tomosane: I can't do it. Tomosane: I can't give that baby meaning to his life. Tomosane: I can't give him any possibilities. Tomosane: I know it's the one thing I can do to atone, but... Tomosane: I can't do it. Tomosane: I collapse on the spot. Tomosane: Right there... Tomosane: I break into tears. Tomosane: I cry like a baby. Tomosane: I'm utterly pathetic. Tomosane: Even in a dream. Tomosane: I can't do a thing. Tomosane: I cry and cry. Tomosane: A grown man. Tomosane: How pathetic. Tomosane: ... Tomosane: And as I do... Tomosane: The crying of that baby... Tomosane: It changes. Tomosane: It becomes... normal. Tomosane: Then... Tomosane: The baby simply cries like any other. Tomosane: As I listen to its cries... Tomosane: As I myself cry... Tomosane: I think to myself, thank goodness... Tomosane: Thank goodness... Tomosane: Why? Tomosane: I don't really know, but... Tomosane: Thank goodness... Tomosane: Nothing was really resolved. Tomosane: Nothing really changed. Tomosane: Just... Tomosane: Just thank goodness. Tomosane: I cry. Tomosane: And I think... Tomosane: The fact that I was born... The fact that I'm alive today is probably... Tomosane: I think it's the same thing. Tomosane: Yes... Tomosane: And then I said... Tomosane: I said this was a premonition. Tomosane: That's what I think. Tomosane: It's a premonition of my own life. Tomosane: The first question... You asked if I was afraid of death. Tomosane: Death is fearsome, but death will never come to any of us. That's the truth, and I understand it as such, yet I still find myself afraid. Tomosane: The fear of death germinates in a mind which thinks itself either blessed or cursed. Tomosane: Without that blessing, or that curse, man would not fear death, just as wild animals do not fear it. Tomosane: That blessing tortures man; that curse tortures man. Tomosane: At the same time, that blessing saves man; that curse too saves man. Tomosane: I guess that doesn't answer your question... Ayana: No... That is a very good answer. Tomosane: Ayana... You called it the End Sky? Ayana: End Sky. Tomosane: Can I see it too? Ayana: Yes. Tomosane: Will I really be able to see it? Ayana: You will... but the last sky isn't yours. Tomosane: The last sky isn't mine? Ayana: Yeah, he's coming back soon. I guess he's done ravishing me. Tomosane: Ravishing you? Are you talking about Mamiya Takuji's delusions? Ayana: Yes. Look... Tomosane: Huh? A shadow? No, that's not it. This is the same as before. A shadow that wasn't there a moment before... That shadow gradually took shape before my eyes. That shadow, standing between me and Ayana, took a human form. Tomosane: Mamiya Takuji... Takuji: What... What did you just do to me?! Ayana: I didn't do anything. I just watched. Takuji: You did something! Ayana: Hehehe, you just got caught up in your delusions. I didn't do anything. Takuji: What did you say?! There's no way that was a delusion! If I had such a realistic delusion like that, I wouldn't... I wouldn't even be able to tell the difference between reality and my delusions! Takuji: That's right! I definitely felt the warmth of your skin! That couldn't have been an illusion! Ayana: Warmth... Ayana: How nasty. Takuji: Wh-What are you saying?! Takuji: You're just some perverted futanari girl! You came everywhere! Ayana: Like I said, I'm not a futanari. Takuji: No, I'll prove you're a futanari! Takuji: See, I knew it. Takuji: Huh?! Ayana: ... Takuji: ...It's not there? Ayana: Mamiya-kun. Takuji: Agh... Blood? Ayana: Mamiya-kun, that was over the line for a prank. You deserved to get punched for that. Hehehe, your nose is bleeding. Takuji: Ugh! Takuji: Agh... Oww! Ayana: If you want to pull a prank the next time you see me, you should be satisfied with just flicking my forehead. Ayana: Otherwise, I'll break your nose again. Takuji: Y-You... Ayana: But... maybe there won't be a next time. Takuji: ... Ayana: Hehehe... I am Otonashi Ayana. That's what they call me. I am not your Riruru-chan's dregs, and I am not a shadow. I am not one of your delusions. Takuji: Riruru-chan isn't a delusion! Ayana: Yes, that isn't a delusion. Ayana: But that might be how it is. It refuses to recognize itself as a delusion, just like I do, and just like you do. Ayana: I'm not a delusion, and neither are you standing in front of me, but... Ayana: I am Otonashi Ayana. Ayana: In this setting, I am human. Ayana: But you're not a human anymore. Takuji: O-Of course not. I'm the savior! Takuji: I'm going to save humanity. There's no way I could be a normal human! Takuji: And I'm not the property of that pathetic soul called Mamiya Takuji! Takuji: I'm the person who will return the world to the sky! I am the savior! I am the one who controls the Holy Surge! Ayana: Yes, you will return it to the sky... That sky is called... Takuji: The limit of the world. The final sky. End Sky. Ayana: Yes. You will reach the End Sky. Takuji: The infinite and finite connect. The finite and the infinite connect. A spinning Ouroboros. Takuji: Circulation... eternal recurrence... continuity... eternity... circular motion... death and resurrection... destruction and creation... the base of the universe... the infinite... immortality... perfection... omniscience and omnipotence... Ayana: Hmm... That sounds complicated. Takuji: The awakening of Jormungandr is at hand! It encircles Midgard. The great sea serpent grasping his own tail will awaken! Takuji: It is at hand! Takuji: Therefore, we must return to the sky! Ayana: Hehehehe... That's nice. Ayana: You've found a reason for your existence. Takuji: What? Takuji: It's not such a simple, vulgar concept as you think. Ayana: Hehehe, of course. Ayana: Minakami Yuki... Ayana: Yuuki Tomosane... Takuji: Wha―?! Takuji: Wh-What about them?! Ayana: Hehe. Ayana: Even now, you react to their names. They still bother you. Takuji: Wh-Why would I care about them? There's no reason for me to. Ayana: Those two are living completely different lives than you are, saying completely different things than you are. Ayana: Each one sees different things, does different things, yet those things are the same. Ayana: The three are at the same time both disconnected and unified. Ayana: Creation, Harmony... and Destruction. Ayana: Their natures are completely different, but they're the same. Ayana: One who names it. One who speaks it. One who erases it. Ayana: Yuuki Tomosane-kun... He said... Takuji: What did he say? Ayana: A crying... Takuji: Huh? Ayana: A crying infant. He couldn't stop it from crying. Ayana: And the fact that he couldn't might be man's original sin, and because of that, its benevolence. Ayana: For a human to live is benevolence in the form of original sin. Ayana: The road to hell is paved with good intentions. Ayana: In that case, the road to hell is made of hope. Takuji: Hope... Ayana: Yes, to live is to hope. Ayana: But... Ayana: You don't need that anymore, since you're trying to do what Yuuki-kun was originally supposed to do. Ayana: The roles of the gods change. The Destroyer becomes the Creator. The Creator becomes the Harmonizer. Each of their roles change. Ayana: The Destroyer has lost his right to destroy, since the Creator is ending everything. Ayana: After rebirth, the god that was supposed to rule over harmony can't do anything. The Creator has given up on being the Rebirther. Ayana: The Creator is trying to destroy the world he created. Ayana: The Destroyer speaks of hope. Ayana: The Creator speaks of despair. Ayana: The Harmonizer hesitates and stops in place. Ayana: Stops and looks at where the world is going. Ayana: Now that the rotation has begun, it can't be stopped. Ayana: The final puzzle for man is the infinite and the finite, rotation and suspension. Takuji: Shut up! Shut up! I'm tired of listening to you! Takuji: I'm... I'm the person who will reach the End Sky! Takuji: I'll say it again! I'm the person who will reach the End Sky! Takuji: I'll say it again! I am the herald of the End Sky! Takuji: I'll say it again! I hate you! Takuji: I am the forerunner of prophecy, who will reach the complete world. Ayana: Today is already the 18th. There's just a little longer to go until the last sky. Takuji: That's right. The final sky. The last sky. The world's limit is approaching. Soon, soon I'll see the world's limit. Takuji: There's not much time until the 20th. No, I have to end it before then. I have to return everything to the sky. Everything. Takuji: I have to return all the people gathered in the ark. Takuji: The end is right there. The sky's limit is right there. The boundary line... The world's last... The End Sky is right there. That's it... Look. Takuji: Just look. It looks so big. It looks so massive. Tomosane: Wha―?! What is that? The sky looked... strange. Is this what Mamiya Takuji was speaking of? Takuji: Beyond the limit... The limit is a door... Yes, a door. And beyond that door is a sea... An incredibly deep sea... Takuji: Look, that is the world's limit... The final sky. Ayana: You're right. Takuji: The End Sky has already come this far... There are only a few more inches between us and the edge of the world. Takuji: Even now would be fine... I wouldn't mind jumping now. Ayana: Then why haven't you done it yet? Takuji: I won't do it yet. I won't do it yet. I won't do it yet... Because I still have things to do here? Tomosane: Ah! That's right. Something I still have to do. Something I have to do, and something Mamiya Takuji has to do. That's right. This is the answer. I took a deep breath and yelled out his name. Tomosane: Mamiya Takuji! Takuji: Huh? That voice?! Takuji: You... How long have you been there? Tomosane: I've been here the whole time, much longer than you knew. Right here beside you. You haven't forgotten about me now that you've become the savior, have you? Takuji: Yuuki Tomosane... Tomosane: Yeah, that's right. I'm Yuuki. The person you so feared... Yuuki Tomosane-sama. Takuji: Heh... What's with you? I haven't seen you in a while, but it seems like you've changed. I always thought you were just a dumb thug. Tomosane: Well, things happen, you know? I've actually always been like this. Takuji: So what do you want from me? Tomosane: You didn't finish me off. I'm sure you knew this was coming, right? I'm sure you could sense it. Takuji: Sense what? Tomosane: Your fate. To be erased by me. Takuji: Ha! Takuji: Is that what you came here to say? You're going to erase me? Some lowlife thug off the streets is going to erase me, the savior? Takuji: Ahahaha... Don't you think you're a bit out of place here? Tomosane: Out of place? Takuji: Yeah. Exactly. You're the stupidest, lowest person I know. All you know how to do is talk with your fists, right? Takuji: Yeah, you're stupid, so maybe you don't know this, but talking with your fists means using violence. Takuji: In the furthest reaches of the universe, under the End Sky, why would I meet a vulgar man like you? Takuji: The past times I've come here, I've met White Riruru, the Father Himself, Black Riruru's incarnation Otonashi Ayana, and other metaphysical existences beyond comprehension. Takuji: So then, why are you here? Takuji: A physical being like you appearing here is so out of place. It's like if Mori no Ishimatsu suddenly appeared in Der Ring des Nibelungen and asked, 'Anyone want sushi?' Tomosane: Oh, really? Sorry about that, then. But didn't I say it before? Tomosane: The battle between you and me will go on until one of us is destroyed. Did you think you could end it just by hurting me? Takuji: More or less. Tomosane: Oh, really? You've underestimated me, then. Takuji: What are you talking about about? You can't talk after hiding away from me all this time. Tomosane: Hiding? Are you stupid? You're the one who tried to erase me. But it's not worth explaining that to him. Takuji: I guess you were just waiting till the last moment, right? Were you off training somewhere? Tomosane: That's right. Takuji: So you're planning to give me a performance worthy of the final act on the stage that is this world? Tomosane: Yeah, that's it. These are the fruits of my labor. Takuji: Labor? What labor? Tomosane: My labor... working to destroy you. Takuji: Working to destroy me? Tomosane: Yeah. The three principles that you don't understand. Work, courage, and fucking courage! Takuji: You really have changed. Were you always such a run of the mill thug? Tomosane: I've never been serious until now. I've always hidden my power. But this time, I'm serious. I've seriously come to kill you. Takuji: This might be a silly question, but why do you want to erase me so badly? Tomosane: Hehehehe... Why? That's a stupid question, Mamiya Takuji. Takuji: Stupid? Would I be wrong to say it's because you've been infected by the Black Surge? Tomosane: Black Surge? I see you've come up with some new delusions. I don't remember you using that word the last time we met. Takuji: Come up with? Are you utterly thoughtless? I didn't come up with it. I learned it. I learned the truth. Tomosane: You believe every single one of your silly delusions, huh? Takuji: Delusions? Hehehe... It must all sound delusional to someone who hasn't even a fragment of knowledge. Tomosane: Delusion, huh? Just like Copernicus' heliocentric theory was called delusional, right? Takuji: So you do understand. Tomosane: In ancient times, even though Philolaus believed that the Central Fire was at the center of the universe and the earth, the sun, and all other celestial objects rotated around it... Tomosane: He believed the sky rotated around the earth. Do you know why? Takuji: What? Tomosane: He already had his answer, and he changed reality to fit his notions. His worldview became warped. Tomosane: The center of the world is right here. That was a given. Even if it was mistaken, they couldn't accept that their world revolved around another celestial object. Tomosane: Preconceived notions... Reality forcibly fit to those notions... Doing that warped their worldviews. Tomosane: The facts that you want to be true coincidentally happen to align with reality. How often does that happen to you, Takuji? Tomosane: But they still wanted to believe they were they the center of the world and everything revolved around them. They alone were special in the world. Tomosane: Hey, Takuji... You want to believe, do you? You can't accept the real world. Tomosane: You aren't the center of the world, and you aren't special! You aren't any sort of savior like your mother thought you were! Takuji: Yuuki! He came right at me with a straight punch. I saw exactly where his fist was headed. His anger and reckless abandon showed me the path his fist would take. Once I saw the attack, there was no problem. I had only to hold strong in my heart. Takuji: Huh?! I dashed in, right next to his face. My arm was already locked under his armpit. Then I lowered my waist. I lowered my waist and lifted him to nearly vertical in my hold. And then... His body went flying through the air. Takuji: Gh... Aagh. A perfectly executed move. Since his arms were stretched to their limits, I destroyed his joints while simultaneously slamming him down onto the concrete. Takuji: Ah... Is this dislocated? Tomosane: How about that? The all-knowing savior should know about that move, right? Takuji: Wh-What was that? I've mastered every martial art on the planet. There's no move I don't know. Tomosane: You do know that move. You just forgot it is all. Takuji: Grr... Agh... Tomosane: It looks like you're serious, huh? Takuji: Serious? Tomosane: Yeah, that's right. Tomosane: I thought I was born just to erase you. I denied myself and tried to erase myself. Tomosane: I thought I was created. Takuji: Wh-What are you... Tomosane: I am the Destroyer. An existence born to end things. To destroy worlds with order. An existence that gives birth to new order. Tomosane: I was supposed to be a person created just for that purpose. Takuji: Huh? Tomosane: Are you scared? Can't you admit it? Takuji: Wh-What are you talking about? Tomosane: What am I talking about? Tomosane: Are you stupid? I'm talking about Hasaki, of course! Takuji: Wh-What are you talking about? Tomosane: Haa... Even now... Even at the end, you can't hear it. Tomosane: Her name. That's it, isn't it? You tried to protect Hasaki by forgetting about her and pretending she was dead. Tomosane: For that at least, I have to commend you. No matter how crazy you got, you always put Hasaki's happiness first. Takuji: What's that? What are you saying? Tomosane: Her name won't reach you until the very end, huh? Tomosane: Whenever the words you hear aren't convenient for you, you distort them or erase them. Tomosane: Especially when it comes to Hasaki. You've tried to erase or change all your memories of Hasaki. Tomosane: You've used every technique to erase, replace, or ignore Hasaki's existence. That's bravery. That was your own form of bravery. Takuji: Wh-What is it? You... Why haven't you been saying the most important parts?! Don't hide your words! Tomosane: You're the one who hid them! Tomosane: It was you who hid them. But remember that I was the only one with a connection to Hasaki. Neither you nor Minakami Yuki, but I, the person who is fated to disappear! Takuji: Are you crazy? Tomosane: Crazy? Hehehehe... Are you really asking that? Here, in this place... No, in this world, there is not a single person who isn't crazy! Tomosane: You should know it... The world you've birthed. The world you know. The world you created is filled with nothing but madmen! Takuji: Tch... Takuji: Ah... He couldn't even cushion his fall when I threw him. He only managed to twist his neck and disperse the force of the blow. He's pretty tough, though. Takuji: Gah... Aah... Tomosane: How about that? You can't even see straight now, right? Takuji: Aa... Aah... Tomosane: You haven't learned a single new trick. While you were playing around with your delusions, I was training so hard that I pissed blood in order to master some new techniques. Takuji: Ah... Aah... Tomosane: This is the limit of your delusions. Tomosane: Your delusions... will be ended by my reality. Takuji: E-End... Tomosane: This is the opposite of last time. Tomosane: Last time, I was there, leaning against the fence, and you looked down upon me. Tomosane: Now it's the opposite. You're the one who's fallen bloody to the ground, Mamiya. Takuji: I've... fallen... Tomosane: That's right. This is the end. Tomosane: Let's end it here, Mamiya Takuji. Takuji: What? Tomosane: We're under the End Sky, so shouldn't it be fine? Tomosane: Isn't it a fitting end for us? Takuji: An end for us? Tomosane: Yeah. Let's end it here. We don't need to drag anyone else into this. Tomosane: Don't drag everyone else into your games. The only ones who need to go along with your end of the world are me and her. The three of us are plenty. Tomosane: This sky is the end for just you and me. Tomosane: This is where it will end. Tomosane: Isn't that good enough, Takuji? I always carried this knife around for some reason. I don't know why it was in my pocket. I don't know who first put it there. I just felt that I had to end it here, with this knife. Tomosane: It won't hurt. I'll aim for the heart. Tomosane: Aren't we both tired of this painful game? "No! You can't!" Tomosane: Huh? Someone's voice... I recognized that voice. That voice was... Hasaki: Y-You can't... Tomo Nii-san, you can't do that. Tomosane: Why did you follow me? Kimura: Ahahaha... Sorry about that. Tomosane: Damn it, Kimura... Tomosane: Crap. I forgot to lock the door. If I had locked it, you wouldn't have been able to follow me up here. Hasaki: You can't... Tomo Nii-san, I-I won't let you do that! Tomosane: Hasaki... From her perspective, it must have looked like I was pointing a knife at my own chest. In reality, I was about to plunge this knife into my own chest. Hasaki: If that's what you were planning to do... I should've just tied you up and never let you leave. Tomosane: I told you, that was also an option. Tomosane: Ah?! Takuji: Yuuki! Hasaki couldn't see the change that just happened. The knife moved from my hand to Mamiya Takuji's. Mamiya Takuji's willpower grabbed hold of the knife. Damn it... It was his knife all along. The moment I realized that... Tomosane: Ah... Takuji: Your heart is right here. It's right here, isn't it? Hasaki: NOOOOOO! Hasaki: No, Tomo Nii-san! NOOOOO! Tomosane: At the very end, I still messed up, huh? Takuji: Messed up? What are you talking about? This was inevitable. This is pre-established harmony. The knife had definitely carved its way deep into our physical body. In other words, both Mamiya Takuji and I had been stabbed. Just from the feeling of that knife, I could tell that neither of us were safe. I could tell the knife had been driven very deep into the flesh. Tomosane: Pre-established... harmony, huh? Tomosane: I see. So in your eyes, I've already outlived my purpose. Takuji: Yeah, that's right. You were just a hurdle for me on my path to becoming the savior. Takuji: An existence for me to surpass... It's true, I underestimated you. I underestimated you too much. I have to thank you for teaching me that. Takuji: The savior should never let his guard down. No matter how insignificant his opponent seems, he should never let his guard down. Takuji: You've taught me that... Thank you. Tomosane: Hey, Hasaki... I'm sorry... Tomosane: It looks like I won't be able to keep my promise. This is the end for me. Tomosane: Haa... I couldn't do anything for you, Hasaki... could I... Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... Hasaki: That's not true... That's not true... Tomo Nii-san, don't go... Tomosane: There's nothing I can do... I've been beaten... Tomosane: Nothing I can do... huh? Tomosane: Is this too reality? Tomosane: Then I can only accept it... Takuji: Yes, accept it. This is reality. Takuji: I am the savior, and I will return the world to the sky. That is the reality. Tomosane: I see... Good job, then... Tomosane: Haa... If this is how it was going to end, I shouldn't have used the last of my time like this... Tomosane: I should've spent my time with you... Tomosane: Hahahaha... I've been an awful brother too... Tomosane: I haven't changed at all... Tomosane: Now then... Farewell, Mamiya Takuji. Congratulations. You've won. Tomosane: And I've lost... Hasaki: ...Uwaah... Kh... Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... Don't go. Tomosane: You dummy... Don't come near me. It's dangerous. Tomosane: This body will be Mamiya Takuji's soon. I'm going to disappear. Hasaki: You can't disappear, Tomo Nii-san! Please! Tomosane: Yeah... I don't really want to disappear. Tomosane: I wanted to be with you longer. Hasaki: Then please, don't go! Let's go home. Let's go home together. Let's just go home... Tomosane: You're right... That was the promise. Hasaki: Yeah, it was... Tomosane: To be together forever... and talk as much as we wanted... Hasaki: Yeah, you promised we could talk as much as we wanted... I still want to talk to you, Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: We didn't talk enough, did we? I wish I could've talked with Hasaki more. I was only paying attention to meaningless stuff. I couldn't see the most important thing in my life. Because I would be disappearing, because I was fated to disappear, I tried not to make any memories with Hasaki. Now that I think back on it, that was a really foolish thing to do. All people eventually disappear. I'm not the only one fated to disappear. Just because we're all going to disappear doesn't mean our memories aren't still precious. So... Tomosane: Let's... talk. Hasaki: Yeah, I-I... Last night, I saw a big sunflower. Hasaki: A big sunflower, yellow and beautiful in the sky... Tomosane: A sunflower... For some reason, I saw a great sunflower stretching into the night sky. For just a second... That sunflower... Sometime, somewhere before... Hasaki: It's already summer, you know? It's the middle of the summer... Hasaki: Summer break is coming soon. I wish I could've gone somewhere with you this year, Tomo Nii-san. Tomosane: Summer, huh? Hasaki: Yeah. You said you wouldn't ever leave me, so I wanted to go on vacation somewhere this summer. Hasaki: Because this summer, it seemed like we were getting along again. Hasaki: This summer break... let's go back to our old town, together. Tomosane: Our town? Hasaki: That's right. Our town. Where you and I were together before. Tomosane: That... That sunflower... With Hasaki... That's right... Because I'm her big brother... I should've done more things like that with her. Huh? Just now... That landscape... Oh, right. That landscape... I knew it once. A sunflower along the path... Tomosane: How did I forgot that? We were there together before. Hasaki: Yeah, so this summer... let's go back. Tomosane: This... summer? Hasaki: Yeah, Tomo Nii-san! Tomosane: Yeah, of course. Tomosane: This... summer? The blue sky and the sunflower. With marshmallow clouds drifting by overhead. And Hasaki wearing a big hat. And she walks with me. Forever and forever. The two of us. On that path. To reach the top of the hill. And there, waiting for us on the other side of the hill... * is a beautiful scene in the future.*
6.373 The world is independent of my will. 6.374 Even if everything we wished were to happen, this would only be, so to speak, a favour of fate, for there is no logical connexion between will and world, which would guarantee this, and the assumed physical connexion itself we could not again will. Ludwig Josef Johann Wittgenstein - "Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus" I wonder how long it's been since my twin brother died. Time has stopped for me since that day. That's why I still carry around that doll. If only I was a shadow, and that doll was the real me... I thought that would be nice. If only I could disappear... Those two saved me. One of them was Yuki-san. She came back to me. She brought Tomo Nii-san with her, and they came back to me. Minkami Yuki-san... A kind old sister. Tomo Nii-san loved her. Master: Huh? You're here awfully early. Hasaki: Oh, good morning. Master: How was he today? Hasaki: It was Tomo Nii-san this morning. Master: Oh, so it was Tomosane this time. Hasaki: Yes, and he was as cold as ever. Master: I figured as much. He's always been like that, though. Hasaki: Yes, he's always like that. Master: Haa... I wonder if he'll ever get better. Hasaki: Ahaha... If he went to the hospital... Master: It's not a sickness that he has. Master: That's why Yuki came. She came to save Tomosane. Hasaki: Master... Master: A curse... That's a curse... Master: There's no way that's just PTSD or anything like that. Master: He was the best student I had. Master: He had a strong heart. He wouldn't leave you behind just because of something like that. He wouldn't just run away. Hasaki: A curse... is it? Master: That's why Yuki came to him. Master: Because she can fight alongside him. Hasaki: Against the curse? Master: That's the curse of the shrine maiden in the town of the walking dead. The curse of the savior. The two of them should be able to beat it together, though. Hasaki: Okay. A curse. The curse of the town of the walking dead. The people in Sawaimura, especially the people of the Mamiya dojo, believe in that. The doctors call it Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. They say it's trauma caused by that incident. That's the reason Nii-san went mad. Whether it's the curse of a dead boy... Or PTSD... I don't know what the truth is. But I have one hope. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san will come back, right? Master: Of course. If he doesn't, I'll have to give God a good punch right in the nose when I meet him. Hasaki: Ahahaha. Okay. God... God, who created the world in six days. And rested on the seventh day. Why didn't he use that day to rid the world of all pain and suffering? Why did he give my brother such a cruel fate?
How long has it been since Tomo Nii-san disappeared? The last time I saw him was the day before yesterday. I should've been more selfish back then. Every time he leaves, I never know if I'll ever see him again. Hasaki: Haa... I came to Kita High again. I was hoping to meet Tomo Nii-san again. But the Nii-san I saw at school was Takuji Nii-san, and then later there was a Yuki-san that I didn't know. They all look the same, but they're different people. I've heard that humans are creatures of habit. Whether it's good or bad, if it happens every day, it just becomes normal. Maybe that's why, even if I didn't have any reason... I had a feeling that someday he would go back to normal. Hasaki: Ahahaha... There's no guarantee of that. Sometimes I even thought he could stay with me forever. Hasaki: I'm not a student here, so he told me not to come to school too much. Hasaki: Well, here goes... If I do something Tomo Nii-san told me not to, maybe I'll be able to see him... Maybe it's silly of me to think that. Yuki-san bought lunch at the store, so I didn't have anything to deliver. Hasaki: I don't have any real reason to be here... What am I doing? I hugged my rabbit. Its head slumped to the side when I squeezed it. This doll was larger than I was when I got it from Nii-san, but now it's so small. So... sometimes I feel like I'm still as small as I was when I got it. I feel like I'm just one of the rabbit's dreams. Like the life I'm living now is just a dream I had when I was a child. Even I know that's just one of my delusions, though. But knowledge and emotion don't always agree. With its inclined head, the rabbit looked like it was asking me a question. But I couldn't hear its voice. Even though it always listened to me. Hasaki: Huh?! What? Is someone there? It was just a quiet sound. It was almost inaudible. It was more like a disturbance in the air. Hasaki: Ah! Kimura: Huh? Hasaki: Who... are you? Kimura: Oh, uh... Well, uh... Hasaki: That's a big camera. Kimura: Oh, uh... I'm a landscape photographer... Hasaki: Oh, is that so? Kimura: Um... Well then... Hasaki: Ha! Kimura: Huh? Kimura: Aaaahh! Hasaki: You were taking pictures, weren't you? Kimura: Ow, ow! You're a martial artist too?! What kind of siblings are you?! Hasaki: Me too? What does that mean? Kimura: Ow, ow! You're gonna break it! Hasaki: Were you... taking pictures of Tomo Nii-san? Kimura: Tomo Nii-san? Hasaki: Oh, uh... I mean Takuji Nii-san. Kimura: A-Ahaha... Why would you think I was taking pictures of your brother * Aaaah, ow, ow!"* Hasaki: You know, I heard you mention siblings. I'm not gonna let you go now. Kimura: E-Eek... Sorry, uh... could you loosen your grip a little? Hasaki: No. You're following Nii-san around, aren't you? Maybe I should break one of your arms just to be safe? Kimura: Wait, you're scaring me! Hasaki: Why are you following Nii-san? Kimura: Uh, well, I'm a landscape photographer, so.. * Gyaawawa, ow, oww!"* Hasaki: If I push a few more centimeters, I'm sure you know what'll happen to your arm. Kimura: Y-You're a lot scarier than you look. You really are Takuji-kun's sister. Hasaki: You can stop wasting your breath. Tell me why you're following Nii-san. Kimura: U-Um! At first I was investigating the drug problem in today's youth. Hasaki: Drug problem? Kimura: Yeah, lots of college students grow pot nowadays. My client wanted me to gather material about that. Hasaki: What does that have to do with my brother? Kimura: Well... he's famous around here. His name came up a lot when I was investigating around here. Hasaki: Why would his name come up? Kimura: He extorts people and takes their drugs. All the drug dealers around here have noticed him. Kimura: ven the yakuza have their hands in drugs, you know? And they're being targeted by some random guy off the street. Hasaki: What did he do? Kimura: Like I said, he takes drugs away from people. Hasaki: Huh? So he's doing drugs? Kimura: Ahaha... At first, that's what I thought too. I was sure he was a junkie that needed to feed his habit. Kimura: But after a while I noticed... it was way more than any one person could ever use. I thought maybe he was selling it. Kimura: So I tailed him for a while. It would've made a great article if I had found him stealing drugs from other people and reselling them. Hasaki: So... was he? Kimura: I was way off the mark. He wasn't selling it at all. He threw them all away. Hasaki: Oh... Kimura: Yeah... Why does he do that? It's so dangerous, and there's no real reason for him to do it. Hasaki: ... Kimura: So I investigated, and I found out about Mamiya Takuji's past. Kimura: And I found a lot of interesting stuff. The White Lotus Association... Your mother was involved with them, right? Hasaki: So you investigated all that too. Kimura: Yeah. I was reading old news articles about the White Lotus Association, and it said your mother was involved with the cult founder. Hasaki: You're missing the most important part. Kimura: W-Wait! Why do you two both act the same way?! I'm a pacifist! Stop! Hasaki: We're siblings. We have to protect each other... So I have to eliminate problems before they come up. Kimura: No, no, wait. I don't think it's that simple. Hasaki: What do you mean? Kimura: Well, the way you're saying it, it sounds like everyone in the world is either trying to help or hurt you. Hasaki: I wouldn't say that. Kimura: So let's just calm down. I know this camera makes me look suspicious, but does that mean I'm trying to hurt you? Does that make me an enemy? Hasaki: I definitely can't think of you as an ally. Kimura: Gyaaa... I-I told you, you can't just divide the world into enemies and allies. Hasaki: What are you trying to say? Kimura: There are lots of strange things happening in this school, and you're brother is at the center of it. Hasaki: What? In the school? Kimura: Yeah, that's right. You didn't know? In the past few days, two students from this school have died. Hasaki: Two students... have died? Kimura: Yeah. In that short time period, there have been two deaths. Kimura: The first was Shiroyama Tsubasa. He was a third-year student. I saw him buying and selling drugs a few times during my investigation. He liked going out at night and hanging out at clubs, too. Hasaki: What happened to him? Kimura: He died. It was five days ago, I think. He probably had an accident while he was on drugs. He fell from the school roof. Hasaki: Who was the other? Kimura: Takashima Zakuro. Hasaki: Huh? T-Takashima Zakuro... Kimura: Yeah, she was a girl your brother knew. They were seen together several times in the days before she died. Hasaki: How did she die? An accident? Kimura: No. Didn't you see it on the news? Hasaki: I don't watch TV much. Kimura: It was pretty sensational, so it got a lot of air time. Takashima and two girls from other schools jumped off an apartment building near Suginomiya station. Hasaki: Two girls from another school? Does that mean it was a suicide? Kimura: Who knows? There hasn't been an official announcement yet, but it definitely looks like a suicide. They're saying on TV that they probably met online and formed a suicide pact. Hasaki: They met online? Kimura: Oh, well, they weren't friends before they committed suicide. It's just an inference. Kimura: But I couldn't find any posts they made on any sites about suicide. Kimura: I don't think it was a suicide pact... Hasaki: Then what do you think it was? Kimura: I'm not the only one. Some people online have noticed the same thing. Their deaths weren't just a bunch of people meeting up and committing suicide. Hasaki: Some people online? Kimura: Yeah. We don't have any proof, but there are a lot of people sleuthing around. Hasaki: Sleuthing? Kimura: Yeah, people on the Internet have a lot of free time, and there are a bunch of people trying to figure out what happened. Kimura: But they're at a dead end. There's one thing they can't investigate. Hasaki: What's that? Kimura: There's a lot of speculation surrounding this one site... Kimura: The school's underground message board. Hasaki: Underground message board? Kimura: Yeah... Well, technically it just means a message board that's not recognized by the school. Kimura: Everyone's talking about it, but only people with an account can see the message board. Hasaki: Um, I don't know much about the Internet, so I'm not sure what you mean. Kimura: You have to get approved by the administrator just to see the message board, and the administrator is pretty strict about who can make an account. Kimura: It's hard for an outsider to see the site at all, and anyone who looks suspicious can get banned in a second. Kimura: Sometimes people get in, and they copy-paste threads onto other forums, or post screenshots. Hasaki: U-Um, I don't know what those words mean... Kimura: Oh, sorry, that's just net slang. Anyway, a lot of people on the Internet are paying attention. This could turn into a major incident. Hasaki: A major incident? Kimura: Yeah, Kita High's Shiroyama Tsubasa... and then Takashima Zakuro, Tsukigawa Usami from Ebisugawa High, and Mizuo Ayumi from Seinogawa Girls' all died, and some people think this might just be the beginning. Hasaki: The beginning? You mean... Kimura: And your brother is at the center of it all. Hasaki: ... Kimura: Do you know about the prophecy that's supposed to be fulfilled this year? Hasaki: ... Hasaki: The world's final day will come... and everything will return to the sky... Kimura: Apparently, the date carved in Mayan ruins corresponded to the year 2012. Though that's supposed to be in December. Kimura: But several people predicted the world would end on July 20th. Kimura: One of those people was the founder of the White Lotus Association. Hasaki: But the founder retracted his statement. He said he had caused a miracle and avoided the disaster. Kimura: Hehehe... You know all about this, huh? The founder of the White Lotus Association has retracted his statement, but that was seven years ago. Kimura: There are still people who believe in the prophecy. Hasaki: ...What are you trying to say? Kimura: Your mother... Or should I say, your former mother? I heard she got divorced. Her maiden name was Sanami, I believe. Hasaki: She didn't get divorced! Our father died! Her name is still Mamiya Kotomi! Kimura: Oh, is it now? Kimura: But... your mother still believes. There's another site on the Internet that's been getting a lot of attention. Hasaki: The website my mother made, right? Kimura: Yes, the predictions of the Web Bot Project. It still says that the world will end on July 20th, 2012. Kimura: The White Lotus Association denies the prophecy, but she still believes the world is going to end. Hasaki: Haa... You sure did do a good job finding all that out. Kimura: Ow, ow! Kimura: W-Wait. Even if you beat me up, someone else will find out the truth soon. Kimura: It's not just people online. There are other journalists asking around. Kimura: If anything else happens, the police will probably start investigating too. Kimura: The mistress of the White Lotus Association's founder is running the Web Bot Project! Kimura: And her son, Mamiya Takuji, is likely at the center of the latest incidents. Kimura: Gah... Hasaki: Huh? Master: Jeez, the mass media sure is garbage... Hasaki: Master... Master: Don't worry, I didn't kill him. I just put him to sleep. Let's bring him back to the shop, instead of talking here. Hasaki: S-Sure... Master picked up the self-proclaimed journalist and carried him on his back. Master: So... who is this? Hasaki: He's a journalist, apparently. Master: A journalist, huh? Well, what should we do with him? Hasaki: You're always sexually harassing Tomo Nii-san, so why don't you fulfill your urges with this guy? Kimura: Huh? Huh?! Wait, what do you mean by that? Hasaki: Exactly what I said. Master woke him up once we got to the store. It's amazing how he's always perfectly in control of the situation. Master: Hmm... He's not really my type, but.. * I do like virgin boys..."* Kimura: No, wait, I'm not a virgin... Though I've only done it with prostitutes. Master: Ahahaha... What are you talking about? Kimura: Ahaha, y-yeah, that's ridiculous. Master: I was talking about your anal virginity. I love showing little straight boys how to walk on the wild side. Kimura: Whoa, w-wait! They stuck their fingers in my ass, so I'm not a virgin there either! Master: Ahahaha, a girl's fingers can't take away your virginity. You have to get a real man to stick something nice and juicy up there. Kimura: E-Eeeek! Hasaki: U-Um... Th-That's really nasty. Master: Oh, sorry about that.. * So you're a jouranlist, Kimura-san?"* Kimura: Huh? H-How do you know my name? Master: Not just that. I know your address and your phone number too. I searched all your stuff. Kimura: N-No way... Master: Not like I really care, but why the heck are you toting around this huge camera? You must stand out with this thing. Kimura: Ah, don't touch that. I just got it fixed! Master: Hmm... So, back to our conversation earlier. Kimura: What do you mean? Master: You said there were lots of people talking about the incidents at Kita High. Kimura: Well yeah, a lot of crazy stuff went down. Master: Crazy stuff, huh... Hasaki: He said two people that Nii-san knew have died. Hasaki: And... Mom's site... Master: I thought that site hadn't been updated in ages? Hasaki: Yeah, she's just been sitting in front of the computer every day since then. I don't think the site has been updated. Kimura: How long has it been? There are lots of rumors going around that the site hasn't been updated for a while. Master: Why are there rumors about that? Kimura: Well, the site looks like it's operating automatically, and apparently the predictions actually come true... Master: Really? Hasaki: No... I wonder... I think it uses a program... Kimura: What? So it uses a program to predict the future? Hasaki: I wouldn't really say it predicts the future... Kimura: Does that mean a program is writing those predictions? Hasaki: Well... According to Yuki-san, it takes trending keywords on the Internet and uses those to write the predictions. Kimura: Huh? What do you mean? Hasaki: It's writing predictions for things that already happened. Kimura: What good is that?! Hasaki: It's in beta right now. All it can do right now is take popular keywords and post them as predictions. Kimura: How can you call that a prediction? Hasaki: Um... From what I've heard, the time required to post the predictions will grow shorter and shorter, and ultimately it will be able to post the predictions before anyone else on the Internet mentions it. Kimura: That's ridiculous. Hasaki: Really? At first it took several days to post a prediction, but now it can post them within seconds. Hasaki: That's why she said it would overtake the future soon. Kimura: It won't, though... Master: Don't you think it's pretty impressive, though? Hasaki: Yeah, Yuki-san spent a lot of time on it when she was bored. Apparently, it's really close to overtaking the future. Kimura: I told you, that's not the problem here... Kimura: I started researching the Web Bot Project on the Internet, and it's supposed to be way more than just that. Hasaki: Yeah, Yuki-san said something like that. Hasaki: She said occult stuff like the Web Bot Project was impossible. Hasaki: She said it wasn't a problem of just improving the system, but that the theory itself is flawed... That's why she said it was just a superstition. Master: Haa... That sure sounds like Yuki, all right... Master: She says it's impossible, but she was still too curious to pass up a chance to play around with it. Master: So that means Yuki is part of the problem here... Hasaki: Ahaha... I guess so. Maybe we should delete the page. Kimura: No, I don't think you should. If you do, the only thing left behind will be the rumors about its predictions coming true. Kimura: If it's just making predictions after the fact, people will figure it out eventually. Master: I guess so... If we delete it, we won't have any proof that it's fake. Kimura: On the Internet, it just takes one piece of decisive evidence to prove something true or false, but... Master: If there's no way to prove it either way, people will speculate about it for years. Kimura: Of course, most people on the Internet are just curious. It's not like they actually believe in prophecies, but still... Kimura: The Web Bot Project website hasn't changed at all in the past few days. Kimura: Rather, the rumors on the Internet right now are all about the Web Bot Project's past predictions. If the system's predictions are what people are talking about on the Internet, then... Master: There's no need to make a new prediction. Kimura: Though that'll change once something new crops up. Hasaki: Putting that aside, what do you mean by occult? I don't really know anything about that stuff... Master: Well, that's... Hasaki: Huh? N-No way... B-But... Kimura: What? You must've made some crap up, old man... The occult isn't the kind of thing that would make a girl blush! Master: Jeez, how can you tell? Maybe I should fix that dumb mouth of yours for good... Kimura: Oh, no, don't mind me. Ahahaha. Hasaki: Either way, Yuki-san said that the system can't make a prediction right now. Kimura: But still, I'm really amazed that no one's figured it out... Though I have to say, I'm kinda skeptical that it could make those predictions in just a few seconds. Master: So what kind of rumors have there been about Kita High lately? Kimura: The Web Bot Project has designated July 20th of this year as the date of a tragedy. It said those girls committed suicide in order to escape the disaster. Hasaki: They committed suicide in order to escape? Master: If they were so afraid of dying, why would they commit suicide? Kimura: Don't ask me. I just heard that those girls claimed the world would end on July 20th just before they committed suicide. Hasaki: Oh... So she... Master: Did you know the girl who committed suicide, Hasaki-chan? Hasaki: Oh, no. I wouldn't say that. I just met her once when I was with Tomo Nii-san and Yuki-san... Kimura: You keep mentioning him, but who is Tomo Nii-san? Master: Shut up, would you? You're not in a position to be asking questions. Kimura: I thought Takuji-kun was your only brother... Hasaki: Takuji Nii-san isn't my only brother... Kimura: What do you mean? Master: I told you to shut up... Kimura: Agh! Hasaki: So are they talking about my brother on the Internet too? Kimura: Hmm... Well, no one's mentioned him by name, but there are definitely rumors that something big is gonna happen at Kita High. Kimura: They say the ringleader is a male student from Kita High, but no outsiders have access to the underground message board, which is the epicenter of all the rumors. Hasaki: So that's... Takuji Nii-san... Master: ... Master: How much do they know about him? Kimura: I'm not sure, but I realized it, so other people with good intuition might've noticed him too. Master: Is it true that people on the Internet can track down your address if they know your real name? Kimura: I guess so? I couldn't say for sure, but it's certainly possible that they could find his address and phone number. Master: Do you think we're fine for now? Kimura: Right now... Well, people are just trying to gather information without causing a fuss... But depending on what they find out, you might start getting unsolicited calls. Hasaki: Calls? You mean from people we don't know? Kimura: Yeah, they do that on the Internet sometimes. They call businesses or famous people and post the conversations online Hasaki: What for? Kimura: Well, I guess some of them do it to get information, but most people just do it as a form of harassment. Master: You mean like when someone calls and immediately hangs up? Kimura: Well, it's a bit different from that old prank. Usually, they record the call so they can post it online. Master: Huh... They must have a lot of free time. Kimura: Most people do it to kill time, after all. Master: They harass people just to kill time? There are an awful lot of terrible people in this country nowadays. Kimura: Well, there are laws against public indignation and the sort... Hasaki: But we don't have a phone at our house. All we have is an Internet connection. Kimura: I think it's more common to call someone's school or work than their home. Master: So they could do it any time, couldn't they? They already know that he goes to Kita High, don't they? Kimura: Like I said, people just seem to be investigating right now. Master: So it's just a matter of time until they find out where the Mamiya house is... Kimura: Probably. Master: I see.. * Okay, Hasaki-chan."* Hasaki: Yes? Master: From now on, you're staying here. Hasaki: Huh? B-But... Master: Write down everything you need. Kimura: That might be a good idea. It might get a little noisy over at your house. Master: Yeah, so make this Kimura guy run and get whatever you need from the house. Kimura: Me? Master: That's right. I guess you don't have to... if you don't care about your camera. Kimura: That's my beautiful fighting Nikon D3 Camera! Master: Oh, this camera can fight? Maybe I should use it as a weapon next time I get a chance. Kimura: Wait, that's my heart and soul! Master: Then I'll tear your heart out. You know, they used to call my fist the 10cm Bomb... Kimura: What?! Are you some kind of mercenary boxer? Hasaki: Maybe I was Youhei? Kimura: Uh, wait, no one but old men are going to get that joke. Really, that wasn't funny at all. Master: I'm not an old man! I'm an old woman! Kimura: Gughah! Hasaki: Th-That's what you're mad about? Master: And that last part was a parody of Dr. Narihara. Kimura: Y-You're crazy... Jeez... Kimura: Eek! I-I'm here... Master: What took so long? Kimura: There was too much stuff. Are you moving in or what? Master: Of course there's a lot. She's a girl, so she has to have her necessities. Kimura: But why does she need the entire dresser?! Master: That's a dumb question! We can't let you touch her underwear, now can we?! Kimura: Haa... So that's why. Master: Of course! Hasaki: Ahaha... Sorry... Master: The room upstairs is free. Hasaki: No, it's not. There's only your room up there. Master: I told you, you can have that room. Hasaki: What about you? Master: I'll go sleep with my boyfriend. Kimura: Ahaha... It's kinda nasty hearing you say that. Kimura: Gughah! Hasaki: Um, Master... If you don't mind, I'd like to sleep in the store. Master: No way. I can't let a girl sleep in a place like this. Hasaki: Really? I could sleep on the sofa in the back. Master: What are you talking about? You'll be sore and tired when you wake up. Hasaki: No, I won't. It's plenty big enough for me, so I won't notice at all, and besides... Master: What? Hasaki: If Tomo Nii-san or the old Yuki-san comes in, I want to be the first one to meet them. Master: Hasaki-chan... Hasaki: Really, I would rather stay at home, but to be honest, it's really hard to watch Yuki-san when she treats me like that. Hasaki: So I really have to thank you for letting me stay here. Master: What? You could've asked any time. Hasaki: Sorry... but I didn't want to be selfish. Master: Silly girl. Hasaki: Ah... Master gently embraced me. Master: You're the girl she gave her life to protect, so you're my daughter... Master: And Tomosane is my son. Even now, she's protecting you both. I'm sure of that. Master: The doctor might disagree... Maybe most people would disagree... Master: But... I believe. She protected you before, and now she's protecting Tomosane. Master: From all the curses... From all the ghosts... Hasaki: Yes. I hugged Master back. Our father died, and our mother ended up like that... Ever since, it's been Master Minakami who's been looking out for me and my brother. Maybe he's been spoiling me. I cried into Master's chest. I don't know why. I just needed to cry.
I couldn't tell if my eyes were open or closed. A world without light. ... There was light. When my eyes focused, I saw that I was within a faint light. Hasaki: This isn't... my ceiling. Hasaki: Ah... I jumped up and checked my surroundings. Oh, that's right. I'm okay. I'd been staying here at the bar since yesterday. Hasaki: What time is it? I would normally be able to tell the time of day from the sun streaming in through the window, but in this darkness, I couldn't tell at all. I looked at the clock. It was just after 9 a.m. The bar's interior is always dark, even during the day. According to Master, the walls and doors are thick so that gang members can't break in. Bars where gangs would gather used to be built with unusually heavy walls and doors to protect against break-ins. But of course, that only happens in other countries. In a way, the bar is a lot safer than the house. When the doors are locked, no one can come in, and no one can see in from outside. Hasaki: Haa... Hasaki: Huh? Did I just hear someone... knock? I can't imagine any customers coming at this time of day. Kimura: Are you up? Hasaki: ...Oh. I stood in front of the large door. I raised my voice a little to answer. Hasaki: Is that you, Kimura-san? Kimura: Yeah, it's me, Kimura. The demon Kimura, the Journalist Esquire Kimura. Hasaki: What's that? Kimura: There have been a lot of new happenings. I got some valuable new info. Hasaki: You investigated some more? Kimura: Yeah, I haven't slept at all! Isn't that amazing? Let me in! What should I do? Master told me not to let anyone in until he got back, but... Hasaki: Well, okay... Kimura: Good morning, Hasaki-chan. Hasaki: You're awfully chipper. Kimura: That's because I haven't slept! Kimura: Oh, can I have a beer? Whiskey, please! Hasaki: We're not open yet... I reluctantly stood at the counter, even though I usually work back in the kitchen. Hasaki: Have you eaten yet? Kimura: Nope! Can you cook, Hasaki-chan? Hasaki: Well, the only cooking I've done is here at the bar... Kimura: Yay. Hasaki: What do you want? This is the menu. Kimura: Let's see... Pickled Celery, a Penne all'Arrabbiata, a Margarita Pizza, and... Hasaki: Um, we're out of celery. We haven't restocked yet. Kimura: Then a Whiskey.. * aged 1000 years!"* Hasaki: We don't have any whiskey like that... Kimura: Ten years, then. Kimura: Puhaa, you're a good cook, Hasaki-chan. It tastes great. Hasaki: Thank you. Kimura: Oh, and I need a refill. A Glenfarclas from the year one billion! Hasaki: Are you okay? You're bright red. Kimura: Have I fallen for you? Hasaki: ...Jeez. Kimura: Ahahahaha, did your heart skip a beat? Are you intoxicated with my adult charm? Hasaki: I think you're the one who's intoxicated... Oh, behind you. Kimura: Behind me? Master: Why did you let Kimura in? Hasaki: He said he found some new information... Master: Don't let him fool you like that. You're so careless. Master: Um... Hasaki: What are you doing? Are you looking for something? Master: Huh? I'm taking the money out of his wallet before I throw him out. Hasaki: You can't rip people off like that! Master: So what's this new information you were talking about? Kimura: It's amazing. You'll understand what a great journalist I am now. Master: Oh, you don't have to convince me. You're a perfect example of mass media scum. Truly, you are a real journalist... and that's not a compliment. Kimura: That's right, I'm a true journalist. Don't you agree? Master: Yeah, I got it. Now what's this new information? Kimura: Well... I was looking around online, and there were posts saying something was happening around the station in Suginomiya, so I went out to Suginomiya. Master: And? Kimura: Suginomiya is where that girl committed suicide, so I stood watch at that apartment building... and I saw two girls there. Master: Hmm... And? Kimura: They picked something up and took it home. Master: ...How is that new information? Kimura: First of all... those two girls were Kita High students. Master: But why should we care about this amazing new information of yours? Kimura: Those two girls... are Akasaka Megu and Kitami Satoko. Master: And? Kimura: Those two were the students who were bullying the girl who committed suicide, Takashima Zakuro. Master: What proof do you have of that? Kimura: Well, I was originally investigating the proliferation of illegal drugs. Several Kita High students' names came up. Kimura: These two girls came up in my investigations more than once, so I already investigated them. Kimura: There was an incident in the past which could've resulted from bullying on Kita High's Building C. Master: Hmm... What does that mean? Kimura: Amazing! Master: What is? Kimura: I'm amazing for finding all this out! Master: You're not amazing. You don't know anything. Kimura: What are you talking about?! You can't solve a mystery in one day! It takes time! Master: Then tell us when you've solved it all. We don't care if you found a new clue. Kimura: B-But it was really hard to gather all this information! Master: But that's your job... Kimura: It's my job, but I haven't slept at all! I'm working twenty-four hours overtime! Master: You're proud because you're not getting any sleep? Are you stupid? You're not gonna get laid if you keep talking like that, you know? Kimura: What does that have to do with it?! Master: Everyone knows that it's just annoying if you tell them about how little sleep you get. Popular guys don't talk about that stuff. Kimura: I'm an exception! Master: ...What kind of exception would that be? Hasaki: Do you have a girlfriend, Kimura-san? Kimura: Ahaha... I've decided to preserve my chastity until we start dating, Hasaki-chan. Kimura: That hurt... Master: You're over thirty and you're still a virgin... Kimura: Why?! I'm such a perfect, nice, hardworking, funny guy! Master: Then how did you stay a virgin this long? Kimura: That's because... I was waiting for the moment I met you, Hasaki-chan. Master: Don't give her that romantic spiel. I know you go to the titty bars in town. Kimura: Um, Master, please don't hit me every time I say something. I was just making a joke... Master: Your face didn't look like you were joking. Kimura: You're so cruel... Kimura: What do you think, Hasaki-chan? Hasaki: A-About what? Kimura: About me! About my humor! Hasaki: Um... You're a lot of trouble... Kimura: Huh? How so? Hasaki: Oh, uh, I guess I get kind of tired of hearing you make bad jokes over and over... Kimura: Really? I guess you're right. I always go overboard trying to make people laugh, you know * Ahahahaha."* Hasaki: Y-You really shouldn't... Kimura: So what do you think of me as a man? Hasaki: Uh, I think you're a lot of trouble... Kimura: Oh, I know that I'm a lot of trouble. I'm always getting into trouble! Master: I think you have a different definition of trouble than the rest of us. Kimura: Doesn't that mean I'm amazing? So, what else do you think of me? Don't you like me? Hasaki: I don't know you well enough for that. Kimura: Then maybe we can get to know each other better? Master: No way. Hasaki-chan already likes someone else. Hasaki: Huh? Kimura: What? Really? Who is it? Master: About that... Hasaki: W-W-Wait! Oh, that's right! You need to go to the store, Master! Quick! Master: Oh, I can do that later tonight. Hasaki: Um, you know, Kimura-san! Kimura: Huh? What? Hasaki: We're closed! Go home! Master: We haven't even opened yet. Hasaki: That's right! So get out! Kimura: Wh-Wh-Wh-Wha... Hasaki: Master! Master: Ahaha, sorry, sorry. Hasaki: Jeez, don't say weird stuff like that! Master: Oh, it was just a joke. Or is there really someone you like? Hasaki: N-Not... at all. Hasaki: I-I'm going to the store! Master: Huh? But the store isn't... Hasaki: I'll be back soon! Hasaki: Haa, haa, haa... Why does this all have to happen right in the morning? Hasaki: Haa... I looked at the clock. It was just before eleven. I said I was going to the store, but then I realized that the store wouldn't open till noon. Hasaki: What should I do? I brought the shop's wallet with me too. If I went back without buying anything, I would just look dumb. Hasaki: Haa... Oh well... I haven't gone to see her in a few days. Maybe I should check in on her. White Lotus Apartments... I didn't really want to come here. My other relatives have even told me to stay away from her. But I come to the apartment here every few days. The person who abandoned me... The person who denied my existence... That's who lives here. So... I won't abandon her. And of course, that's not because I love her or even because I'm a philanthropist. The person who abandoned me... If I abandoned her after she became powerless, I would be no different. I hate her. But her blood runs through my veins. And I don't want to do the same thing she did. I won't abandon her. She abandoned me, but... I won't abandon her. Because... Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... was the same way. Tomo Nii-san hated our mother more than anyone. He tried to protect me. But even Tomo Nii-san couldn't truly hate her in the end. He couldn't throw her away. That's how she ended up like this. And even now... Hasaki: Hahaha... You're such a coward, Tomo Nii-san. Hasaki: You always said you were gonna kill her, but in the end, you could never do it. Hasaki: If you couldn't do it, then how could I? Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... Kimura: Hm? Who's Tomo Nii-san? Hasaki: Huh? Aahh! Kimura: Is that Tomo Nii-san guy the person you like? Does one of your friends have a cute big brother? Kimura: Does that mean you really do like older guys? Hasaki: Why are you here?! Kimura: Because I was worried. I chased after you. Hasaki: You mean you followed me? Kimura: Come on... Who knows what could happen, right? A weak, young girl like you needs a big, strong bodyguard like me. Hasaki: Oh, really? So you'll be my bodyguard, huh? Kimura: Of course! Hasaki: Hold out your hand. Kimura: Huh? What? You want to hold hands? Or can you read palms? I grabbed his hand. Kimura: Gyoah, gyah! Hasaki: Now, try to escape. Kimura: O-Ouch... I-I can't! It hurts! Let me go! I sighed and let his arm go. Hasaki: If you can't even escape a weak, young girl's armlock, I don't think you could protect me. Kimura: N-No... I'm the cultured type of guy. I'm not all that strong or good at sports, but I'm really good at other things, like not sleeping. Hasaki: Haa... I wonder what his problem is. I looked at Kimura-san's face once more. He had a huge grin on his face. ... But, I guess he's not a bad person. And he gives us the information he finds. It must've been hard to get all that info. Part of it is just because he wants to get information from us, I'm sure. Still, he always tells us everything, even if he doesn't have to. Even now, he could have just followed me instead of showing his face. And more than anything... Hasaki: Master seems to be pretty fond of you, doesn't he? Kimura: Master? What? No, I'm not into guys. I only have eyes for you, Hasaki-chan. Is he even listening to what I'm saying? Or maybe he just doesn't understand what he's hearing. But wouldn't it be a problem if a reporter was so bad at listening? Hasaki: Haa... Anyway, please don't follow me like that. Kimura: Ahahaha... Sorry. Hasaki: Haa... Well, now that you came all this way... Do you remember that Web Bot Project I told you about last night? Do you want to see it? Kimura: Huh? Here? Hasaki: Yes. This is my mother's apartment. Kimura: Oh, wow... The name is exactly the same. Hasaki: Yes, but the White Lotus Association tells her not to use their name. They even sent us a cease and desist order. Kimura: Oh, then she's not related to the White Lotus Association? Hasaki: Not at all. There's only the name left. Now, only my mother lives here, and the only person who ever comes to see her is the home helper. Kimura: But you come to see her too. Hasaki: I am her daughter, unfortunately... Hasaki: Go ahead. Kimura: Ahaha, thank you... Kimura: Whoa. "..." Hasaki: Oh, that's my mother. Kimura: Oh, you're Hasaki-chan's mom? Uh, my name is Kimura! Hasaki: That's pointless. No matter what you say to her, she can't hear you. Kimura: She can't hear me? Hasaki: Yes. Kimura-san looked into my mother's face. Even when a complete stranger was staring her in the face, she didn't react at all. Kimura continued his bizarre performance in front of my mother for a few seconds before he was finally convinced. Hasaki: She's been like this for over seven years now. Kimura: Seven years... Hasaki: Do you want some tea, Kimura-san? Kimura: Oh, you don't have to do that for me. Hasaki: Um, do you want cold oolong tea or warm green tea? Kimura: Um, whichever one's easier for you. Hasaki: Are you taking notes? Kimura: Yeah, sorta. So then, what exactly happened seven years ago? Hasaki: I can't tell you that. Kimura: Huh? Why? Hasaki: You're taking notes because you want to write an article about this, right? Kimura: Not at all. I would consider your family's circumstances before doing that. Hasaki: Either way, I don't want to talk about it. Go investigate it yourself if you really want to know. Kimura: Ahaha, that's a bit harsh. Well, I don't blame you. Hasaki: Kimura-san, it was Nii-san... It was Takuji Nii-san you were investigating, right? Kimura: Yeah. At first, I was just following the leads, but he caught my interest after his name kept popping up. Hasaki: What did you think of him? Kimura: What do you mean? Hasaki: Don't answer my question with another question. Just answer the question. Kimura: Hmm, well... It's hard to sum it up in a single sentence. I talked to him quite a few times, and he broke my camera twice. Kimura: To be honest, it doesn't feel like he's really a central figure in the recent events. Or rather, I don't want to believe he's involved in all this. Maybe that's it? Kimura: The Mamiya Takuji I met was certainly violent and even a bit ruthless, but... Hasaki: But? Kimura: Does anyone ever come to visit this apartment? Hasaki: Huh? No, not really. What does that have to do with it? Kimura: The floor was vibrating just now. I think someone's coming up the steps. Hasaki: You heard someone? Kimura pointed to a strange machine. It was a small machine with a cord that reached the floor. Hasaki: What's that? Kimura: A vibration monitor. Normally, it's used to check for broken parts in machines, but you can use it to tell when someone comes into a building by watching the readout. Hasaki: It's that sensitive? Kimura: Well, it depends on the construction of the house too, but in a steel-frame apartment building like this, it's pretty accurate. Hasaki: That's awfully convenient, isn't it? Kimura: Let me ask you again. Do people ever come to visit here? Hasaki: A maid comes to clean the apartment once a day, but... Kimura: What time is that? Hasaki: That's during the evening. Kimura: Are you expecting visitors at this time of day? Hasaki: No. Kimura: Who could it be? Hasaki: Relatives, maybe? But I think they would be working today, since it's a weekday. Kimura: Maybe someone else in the industry is trailing me. Or maybe it's a snake who tracked us down online? Hasaki: What should we do? Kimura: I'll go check. Hasaki: You can't do that. How would I explain that if it was one of my relatives? Kimura: What if it's someone dangerous? Hasaki: Would you be able to do anything? Kimura: Of course. For your sake, I'll make the impossible possible! Hasaki: Please just hide. Kimura: Huh? Why? Isn't this the part where we kiss? Hasaki: It would be dangerous if you went out, no matter who it is, so please just hide. Here, take this knife. Kimura: Whoa... Is this a sashimi knife? I'm pretty sure the tip will break off if you stab someone with one of these. Hasaki: Just go hide already. I'm going out! Kimura: Whoa, wait! I pushed him into the closet. Hasaki: Hmm... Now, what's happening outside? I peered through the peephole and looked out. Whoever it was, they weren't standing outside the door. I didn't see anyone out there. And besides, I'm not sure if Kimura-san was right about someone coming up the stairs. I locked the door with the chain and then opened it a little bit so I could see outside. Hasaki: Huh? I unlocked the door right away. Mamiya: Ah... Hasaki: ... Nii-san was standing outside. Only Tomo Nii-san and the first Yuki-san knew about the White Lotus Apartments. Which meant it had to be one of those two. Mamiya: U-Um... Hasaki: Wh-Why are you here? I was too happy to say anything else. But then I recovered my composure. There was no guarantee that the person before me was actually who I thought it was. I closed the door right away. Almost immediately. Mamiya: S-Sorry... I-I'm not a burglar or anything. Hasaki: Wh-Who are you right now? Mamiya: Huh? Hasaki: Who are you? Mamiya: Um, my name is Minakami, you see... Hasaki: Minakami... Yuki... Yuki-san... But the way she's talking... This isn't the same Yuki-san. This Yuki-san doesn't know who I am. But I heard that the other Yuki-san had replaced me with two characters called Kagami and Tsukasa. That Yuki-san shouldn't see me for who I am. What's going on? Hasaki: Ah, ahaha... Minakami Yuki? You're the Minakami Yuki from Kita High, right? Mamiya: Y-Yes... Wait, how did you know? I knew it. This isn't the same Yuki-san I know. Then why doesn't she think I'm the twin sisters? Hasaki: U-Um, what did you come here for, Yuki-san? Mamiya: Oh, nothing... Um... Hasaki: ... I was at a loss for words. If nothing else, I could be sure this wasn't the same Yuki-san I knew. Hasaki: Do you want to come in? Mamiya: Huh? Hasaki: Do you want to come in... to the house? Mom and Kimura-san were inside. Kimura-san was hiding, so he wouldn't be a problem. There was no need to hide my mother. Maybe I could even tell what sort of person this Yuki is from her reaction when she sees her. Mamiya: Well, I guess, if I wouldn't be a bother. Hasaki: You won't be. She stepped into the apartment. Tomo Nii-san always scowled when he stepped into this apartment. Then he would always look at our mother from afar. For some reason, Yuki-san would always pat me on the head after she saw my mother there. How will this person react? Hasaki: What would you like to drink? Mamiya: Oh, don't worry about me. Hasaki: Does oolong tea sound fine? Mamiya: Oh, sure. I made some oolong tea for Nii-san. It was the first time I had ever needed to act so polite around my brother. Takuji Nii-san couldn't see me. Tomo Nii-san and the previous Yuki-san both talked to me like a normal sibling would. But the new Yuki-san always saw me as two twin girls I've never heard of. So this was new for me. Mamiya: But before that, could I ask why you know my name? Hasaki: Sorry. You're right. That was a little creepy, wasn't it? Mamiya: Oh, no, that's not what I mean. Hasaki: My name is Mamiya Hasaki. Mamiya: Mamiya Hasaki... Huh? Mamiya? Hasaki: Yes. He's in your class. Mamiya: Mamiya Takuji... Hasaki: Takuji is my father. Mamiya: Huh? I couldn't tell how much she actually knew about me, so I gave her a completely ridiculous answer. Just like Yuki-san taught me. When someone asks you a question, giving a nonsensical answer allows you to understand something about that person, such as how well they know themselves. The slower they are to react, the less they know about themselves. It's strange using a technique on Yuki-san... that I originally learned from Yuki-san. Mamiya: That's... Hasaki: It was a joke. Mamiya: Oh, riiight. Wait, a joke?! Hasaki: Takuji is my husband. Mamiya: Huh?! Hasaki: That was also a joke. Mamiya: No... Enough with that, already. Hasaki: Excuse me. Hasaki: I just thought it would help break the ice. Mamiya: No, well... You don't have to worry about me. Hasaki: Excuse me. It seemed like a joke Yuki-san would have told, but the new Yuki-san didn't find it funny. It was painfully clear that this wasn't the same Yuki-san I knew. Hasaki: The truth is... I'm Mamiya Takuji's little sister. Mamiya: Little sister? Hasaki: Yes. She apparently recognized me, but she didn't even know that I was his sister. I couldn't tell if this was the new Yuki-san I heard about, or yet another Yuki-san that had just been created. It was hard to tell. I heard the sound of a cup falling in the other room. My mother must've knocked over the tea I made for Kimura-san... Hasaki: Ah... Mother. I grabbed some tissues and wiped up the oolong tea she spilled. Maybe I should've told Kimura-san to take his cup with him. It would've been kind of weird though, seeing him with a knife in one hand and a cup of tea in the other. I saw Yuki-san peering in from the other room. When she saw my mother, there wasn't any sign of recognition on her face. Hasaki: Ah, excuse me. My mom just... Mamiya: Your mother, you said... Hasaki: Yes. You can probably tell by looking. Our mother is a bit... ... Mamiya: Is she sick? Hasaki: Yes. Hasaki: More importantly, why are you here at this house, Yuki-san? Even Nii-san doesn't come here. Mamiya: Ah, sorry. I came after I saw this. She showed me some pages she had printed out. And then I understood what happened. This Yuki-san must have been investigating the incidents at Kita High. And she followed the clues until she ended up here. After that, I talked with Yuki-san a lot. As I did, I gradually figured something out. She must have recognized me as Mamiya Takuji's little sister when she saw me in this house because that made her worldview consistent. It would be a problem if the twins showed up here. So at least for now, she recognized me as Mamiya Hasaki. But she still saw me as a complete stranger. As Mamiya Takuji's little sister. That was really sad, but I was still glad that I was able to talk to Yuki-san again. It felt like I was talking to the same old Yuki-san. She was trying to solve the problem just like the old Yuki-san would have. How ironic. She had to uncover the mystery of all these incidents being caused by someone living in the same body as her. Mamiya: Sorry for taking up your time like this. Hasaki: Oh, no. It's not a big deal. Mamiya: Well then... Hasaki: U-Um... Mamiya: Yes? Hasaki: Ah... excuse me. It's nothing. Mamiya: Hmm? Hasaki: If something's ever troubling you, please come here any time. Mamiya: Sure thing. Hasaki: And if you meet my brother, tell him his little sister asked him to stop by once in a while. We're all waiting for him. Mamiya: You haven't seen your brother lately? Hasaki: No. It seems like I can't. Hasaki: That's probably part of the curse. Mamiya: Curse? Hasaki: Oh, it's nothing. Mamiya: Anyway, if I see him, I'll tell him what you said. Mamiya: Look, I know it might not be my place to say this, but I don't think it's anything like that. Hasaki: Huh? Mamiya: After all, Hasaki-chan, I can't imagine anyone who wouldn't want to have a cute little sister like you. So I'm sure he hasn't forgotten about you. Hasaki: ... Hasaki: Um, Yuki... Mamiya: Yes? Hasaki: You have a childhood friend, right? Two of them, actually. Mamiya: Oh, yeah. The Wakatsuki sisters. Hasaki: Do you like them? Mamiya: Huh? What's this, all of a sudden? Hasaki: Oh, nothing... Uh... Mamiya: ... Mamiya: Of course I like them. They've been my friends since we were little. Hasaki: Okay. Hasaki: Thank you. Mamiya: Yeah. See you. Hasaki: Bye. I wish I could tell Yuki-san everything. But I know that would be pointless. Because the old Yuki-san that knew everything got erased, and this one replaced her. If I told this new Yuki-san everything, so she could understand it all... the result would be the same. The new Yuki-san would be erased too. Kimura: That was Mamiya Takuji, right? Hasaki: Yes. Kimura: Hmm... I expected a barrage of questions to follow, but for some reason, Kimura-san just looked out the window with a pained expression. He must have heard us talking from inside the closet, but he didn't ask any more questions about it. All he said was... Kimura: Even if something big does go down, I don't think your big brother will be to blame. Kimura: That's what I think. And I'm sure you believe in him, too. That's all. My conversation with Yuki must have sounded odd, but he didn't question me about it. Hasaki: Something big, huh... Kimura-san was trying not to intrude on our lives too much. But still, even I could feel that something big was about to happen. It seemed inevitable by that point. Which means... Hasaki: My brother is related to all this, isn't he? Kimura: ... Kimura-san was lost for words. He didn't have any response to that. That's right. Something else is going to happen soon. It's going to happen, whether I want it to or not. And I can't do anything about it. All I can do is be protected by others. I can't solve the problem. Seven years have passed. Can't I change this destiny? Kimura: Are you thinking about doing something? Hasaki: ... Kimura-san suddenly looked at me and asked that. I couldn't answer. All I could do was grimace in resignation. Kimura: I've fallen into your brother's clutches more than once. I couldn't believe how strong he was. Kimura: He looks skinny, but it's like he can tell what you're going to do before you do it. He made me look like a helpless little kid. Kimura: I was really impressed. Kimura: But he's always careful that he doesn't seriously injure anyone. It hurt like hell, but he was careful not to break my bones or anything. It was only a few minutes before the pain went away. Kimura: They say that strength is kindness. I agree, but today I realized that real kindness is found in dedication. Hasaki: Kindness is dedication? Kimura: Ahaha... It's kind of cliche to say that strength is kindness, but you probably haven't heard anyone say that kindness is dedication, right? Hasaki: I haven't. Kimura: All too often, kindness is a transient thing. Showing kindness for just a moment isn't kindness at all. At best, it's pity. Hasaki: Transient kindness is just pity? Kimura: A transient kindness doesn't involve any pain, sacrifice, or risk. Kimura: It's not in just one moment, but over a great span of time, that kindness is really shown. Even if it might not benefit the person giving their kindness, they still persevere for someone else's sake. That's true kindness. Hasaki: Persevering for someone else's sake is true kindness... Kimura: It's very easy to say some kind words on cue, which might make other people think you're a kind person. Kimura: But those are actually the people who are least kind. Kimura: Flatterers are the worst of friends. Their empty promises mean nothing when you find yourself in real trouble. Kimura: Those who are willing to risk misfortune falling upon themselves to aid a friend... They're easily much kinder. Kimura: When he attacked me, he could've done much worse to me, and he could've used more of his moves on me. Kimura: He was careful not to leave any bruises, and above all, he treated me like a person. Kimura: Not as a paparazzo or an annoying journalist. He treated me like an equal. Maybe that's not the smartest thing to do nowadays, though. Kimura: Your big brother... is a really nice guy. Kimura: He even risked himself to get those drugs off the street. Kimura: That signals absolute confidence in one's ability. And most of all, he places other people's comfort over his own. Kimura: No one thanks him for what he does. He only does what he thinks is good. Kimura: And it's his stubborn will that keeps him going. Kimura: It's that same stubborn human will that underlies all real kindness. Kimura: A determination to see things through to the end. Hasaki: I don't really understand what you're trying to say. Kimura: You used the same skills on me, and that's when I knew that you two really were brother and sister. Kimura: Your brother is very strong, yet also very caring. You're strong and caring just like he is. Hasaki: You're just flattering me. I'm not strong, and I'm not a nice person either. Kimura: Yeah, that might be true. Even now, your resolve is wavering. Hasaki: Wavering? Kimura: You're fighting against your own determination to see things through. Hasaki: Against my own... determination? Kimura: In the past few years, since that great change seven years ago, what thoughts have you had? Kimura: You've resolved to do something in that time, haven't you? Hasaki: H-How did you... Kimura: No, I'm just going off my intuition. I just had a feeling. Kimura: Something happened seven years ago, didn't it? It must be the reason why your mother acts like that. Kimura: And now you're trying to accomplish something. Hasaki: Something I've tried to accomplish... Kimura: You know what I mean. But your determination is wavering. Hasaki: ... Kimura: This whole incident might end up being bad news for you, but it'll be worse if you don't do something about it. Hasaki: Worse? Kimura: Yeah. You probably don't have to worry about the world actually ending, but there certainly could be a bad outcome. Hasaki: ... Kimura: I've been investigating this incident. It would be a huge scoop if I could report on it. Kimura: But I'd rather it didn't turn into a terrible accident. Hasaki: Thank you. Hasaki: Um... Why did you come to the school? Kimura: Well, I heard there was a mystery here at Kita High. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. There's an old Japanese phrase: 'You can't find a tiger cub without going into the tiger den!' Hasaki: Haa... This is completely unrelated, but can I ask you a question? Kimura: Anything! Hasaki: In that old phrase about the tiger, do you know why someone would want to find a tiger cub? Do they want one as a pet? Kimura: I'm not sure. Tiger furs are really valuable, right? Hasaki: You would kidnap a tiger cub just for money? You really are a bad person. Kimura: I'm not a bad person! Hasaki: Well, it's not like you're actually going to do it. Hasaki: But won't you get reported to the authorities if someone sees you going into the high school? Kimura: It's okay. Kimura-san walked into the school with me. Hasaki: U-Um... Kimura: Whoa! Teacher: You there! Wait a second! Kimura: I-I'm not a bad person! Hasaki: Ahaha... I knew you weren't allowed in here. Teacher: Hey, wait! Hasaki: What are you trying to do? Hasaki: Kimura-san! Kimura: I-I was scared. He would've dragged me all the way into the staff room. Hasaki: Of course they would. Someone like you really sticks out in the school. Kimura: Why? Don't I have a baby face? Hasaki: That's not what I'm saying... That camera is really suspicious. Kimura: Maybe I should've put on a uniform... Hasaki: I don't think that's the real problem either. Hasaki: Besides, what are you trying to investigate? Kimura: Well, you know, there's more activity on the underground message board when your brother is at school. Kimura: And when he's at home, there's no activity at all. Hasaki: So you think my brother is somehow related to that message board? Kimura: Well, yeah, I guess so. Hasaki: You're not very sure of yourself. Kimura: Not really... Hasaki: Tell me everything. Don't hold back. Hasaki: If there's a way to stop the disaster that's about to happen, I have to know everything. Kimura: Everything... Okay. Kimura-san took a moment to think and then opened his mouth to speak. Kimura: It was yesterday. Somewhere by that same apartment building in Suginomiya, Akasaka Megu and Kitami Satoko found something. That's what they said. Hasaki: So that's why you were there in Suginomiya. Because you read online that something was going to happen there... Kimura: Yeah... To tell the truth, I was watching your brother before that. Kimura: They said they found something, but your brother actually planted it there right before they came. Hasaki: I see. That really is important information. Kimura: Yeah, but I wasn't sure if I should tell you all of that. That's why I hid that part. Kimura: I was trailing him because of what he had done before. It was just a coincidence that I saw him plant that. Kimura: I'm probably the only person who knows. No one online knows about that. Hasaki: He's trying to make something happen... That's what you think, right? Kimura: Yeah. Sorry, but that's what I really think. This whole incident doesn't just happen to revolve around him. He's the one causing these things to happen. Kimura: He's doing it all... Hasaki: Kimura-san, you should take a look at his computer. Kimura: His computer? The one in the house? Hasaki: No, there's probably nothing on that one. I'm talking about the other computer, the one he keeps in his secret base. Kimura: He has another one? Hasaki: The manager of the Kita High underground message board is probably Takuji Nii-san. Kimura: I see. Hasaki: So you're not even surprised. That's what you were thinking too. Kimura: Well, I was watching him for quite a while. But do you know where that computer is? Hasaki: Yes. I've never been there, but I'm pretty sure I know where it is. Kimura: Then we should sneak in there tonight. Hasaki: We don't have to wait till then. It should fine for us to go right now. Kimura: Well, I would love to go right now, but the school authorities really don't seem too fond of me. That was putting it mildly. Hasaki: We don't have to go through the school to get there. Kimura: Oh, really? Kimura: I-Is it really down here? Hasaki: Yes, it should be just ahead. Kimura: But this is... Kimura: A sewer, isn't it? Hasaki: Yes, that's right. Oh, here it is. Kimura: Here? Kimura: What is this room? Hasaki: It was the pool's water tank, I think. Kimura: The water tank? There's no water in here, though. Hasaki: It's the tank for the old pool that doesn't get used anymore. Now then... Kimura: Ah, Hasaki-chan! Kimura: Wh-What is this? Hasaki: What does it look like? Kimura: The foundation... Why is there such a large foundation under this school? Hasaki: I'm surprised too. The foundation is really massive. Kimura: So this is the first time you've seen it too, Hasaki? How did you know this was here? Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san said... Oh, uh, I mean Nii-san told me about it. Kimura: I see. Kimura: Oh, is this a generator * Wow, this secret base is really something."* Hasaki: I turned on the electricity. Kimura: It looks like there's a light over there. There was a slight luminescence over where Kimura-san was pointing. Hasaki: Huh?! Kimura: Wh-What? I grabbed Kimura-san and hid behind the pillar. Kimura: Wh-What, you finally got me alone? Hasaki: He's here. Kimura: Your brother? In the center of the foundation, there was a silhouette of a person looking at the ceiling. I couldn't see his face, but I knew it had to be Nii-san. Kimura: Oh, you're right. That could be bad. He probably noticed us when we turned on the light. Hasaki: No, it should be fine. Kimura: Will it? Wouldn't he notice if the lights suddenly came on in the dark? Hasaki: Just look at him. He's not moving at all. He was still standing in exactly the same position, looking up at the ceiling. Hasaki: I've seen him in that state more than once before. Right now he probably isn't receptive to any information from the outside world. Kimura: He isn't receptive to any information? Hasaki: Yes, so I think we'll be okay. Kimura: Really? B-But... Hasaki: Anyway, we should go check it out. Follow me. It's over here. Kimura: Ah, Hasaki-chan... Kimura: W-Wow, what is this? Hasaki: I think it's my brother's secret base. Kimura: A secret base, huh? This is amazing... Oh, here's the computer. Hasaki: He's probably getting on the Internet from this computer too. He hardly touches the one at home. Kimura: Oh, lucky! He doesn't have a password on here. Uh, Hasaki-chan, can you just give me a second here? Kimura-san pulled out a thumb drive and stuck it into the USB port. Kimura: Just a second. I just need to copy some of these files. Kimura-san sat down in front of my brother's computer. And I looked around at Nii-san's secret room for the first time. Hasaki: Books... Lots of books. There were dusty shelves on the wall, filled with all sorts of difficult books. Those books belonged to Yuki-san and Tomo Nii-san. Why were they all here? Oh, that's right... I think Nii-san did say that he kept losing his books before he could finish them. Hasaki: No wonder... Maybe Takuji Nii-san hid these difficult books here because he doesn't like them. He's quite the nuisance for Yuki-san and Tomo Nii-san, though. I looked at the other shelves too. There were a bunch of manga and light novels cleanly arranged on most of the other shelves. These must be Takuji Nii-san's... Hasaki: He used to read all sorts of hard books before. I guess that's his way of distancing himself from his past. It used to be Tomo Nii-san that didn't like to read hard books. I guess it was probably Yuki-san's influence that made him start reading more. Because Tomo Nii-san really liked Yuki-san... Hasaki: Huh?! Kimura: A cell phone? Huh? Hasaki: It's not mine. It's probably Nii-san's. Kimura: Your brother's phone? Hasaki: Let's go. He's going to wake up soon. Kimura: Wait, really? Uh... Kimura-san shut down the computer and pulled out his USB drive. Hasaki: Hurry! Kimura: Y-Yeah... I saw the silhouette move to look at the ringing phone. We could still get away without being noticed. Hasaki: Kimura-san, hurry. Kimura: Y-Yeah. Hasaki: Haa, haa, haa, haa... Kimura: So this is where it leads. Wow... Hasaki: Kimura-san, we need to hide. We can't be seen inside the school. Kimura: Sure. Kimura-san and I hid in the brush. If we just followed the hedge row, we could get all the way over to the school's back fence without being seen. Hasaki: Kimura-san, hurry up! Kimura: Wait a second! Hasaki: Huh? Kimura: Your brother came out of the manhole. Hasaki: He did? He had come out of the underground base too. He looked like he was worried about something. Did something happen? Kimura: Is something bothering him? Kimura: Ah. Hasaki: Someone's here. We hid and watched. There were quite a few students gathered around my brother. He looked like he was shocked at the number of people. Kimura: They're surrounding him. What's going on? Kimura: That's Akasaka Megu, and that's Kitami Satoko. And that one is... Tachibana Kimika, I think. Hasaki: You know them, huh? Kimura: I investigated a whole bunch of them. I know the names and faces of quite a few students in this school. Kimika: U-Um, Mamiya-sama... Takuji: ... Kimika: I-I saw it... Takuji: N-No... Th-This is... Kimika: Mrs. Senagawa really died! I was so moved! Your power did it, my savior! Takuji: U-Um... Takuji: ... Kimika: I was waiting in the courtyard, just like you ordered me to... and Mrs. Senagawa really fell. She splattered all over the ground. Takuji: Wh-What? Kimika: It was the rooftop above the fourth floor, so she fell from five stories up. I didn't think that was high enough to kill someone outright, but she just went splat. Kimika: Yes. You specified the time and location, didn't you? Takuji: R-Really? Kimura-san and I were at a loss for words. That meant that another person had died here at this school. Kimura: Th-This is bad. We need to get away from the school. Hasaki: Huh? Oh, right. I was confused and didn't know what to say. Another person had died. And according to the conversation just now, my brother had predicted that person would die. Which means... Kimura: Hasaki-chan! I know this is scary, but we have to get out of here! Kimura: Someone just died here. If we're found loitering around the crime scene, we could be mistaken for the perpetrators. Kimura: Come on! He pulled my hand as we ran around the backside of the school and went to hop over the back fence. Kimura: Hasaki-chan, hurry up! Hasaki: Y-Yeah. I hopped over the fence too. Then, right when we came out into the alley behind the school... Teacher: Hey, you! Why were you in there?! Kimura: Eek! Teacher: You're that guy from earlier! Kimura: R-Run away! Hasaki: Y-Yeah! Master: And then? Kimura: They saw my face. Master: Careless. Master: So basically, the school and the police think that you're the most suspicious person. Kimura: I-I didn't do anything! Master: Tell that to the police. Kimura: I can't tell them that! Master: Don't worry about it. They'll investigate you for a few days, and then it'll be over. Kimura: You can only say that because you've never experienced it. You don't know how scary it is to be interrogated by the police! Master: Of course I haven't experienced that. It happens to you because you're so careless. Kimura: Oh god, do you think there will be wanted posters up tomorrow? Ones with my face on them? Master: Well, it's not like we know this person was murdered. All you know is that they died. Kimura: That's true, but... Master: Besides, there's nothing on the news. If they thought it was a homicide, they would be covering it on the news, don't you think? Kimura: I-I guess so. Master: Haa... I can't believe another person has died at that school. Kimura: Yeah. What the hell is going on? Hasaki: How much information did you get off Nii-san's computer? Kimura: I won't know until I take a look at it. For what it's worth, I copied all his passwords and all the data from the message boards. Kimura: Most of the stuff on his computer was just stupid videos, but it wasn't hard to find the work data. Hasaki: Um, here. I handed a key to Kimura-san. Kimura: What's this? Hasaki: The key to the house. It's the spare, though. Kimura: Why did you give me this? Hasaki: There's another computer in the house. You should investigate that one too. Kimura: Huh? Me? Are you sure? Master: Of course she's sure. It's not like you can betray us now. You're in more trouble than any of us. Hasaki: And besides, I don't know anything about computers, so I wouldn't know what I was looking at. If you know what you're looking for, then you should go. Kimura: Oh, uh, that should help me out a lot. Thanks. Hasaki: And, uh... Kimura-san. Kimura: What? Hasaki: Um... The words were stuck in my throat. But it was too late to be hiding things now. Kimura: What's wrong? Hasaki: If Nii-san comes home and tells you that his name is Tomosane... Kimura: Yeah, I understand. If he says his name is Tomosane, then bring him here, right? Hasaki: Huh? Kimura: I couldn't believe it myself, but I think I know what the situation is. Kimura: The brother you love is the one called Tomosane, right? Kimura: That arrogant, brutish sort of guy, right? Hasaki: Y-Yeah... Kimura: Understood. If he comes home, then I'll bring him to you here. Hasaki: Thank you. Master: Hmm? Kimura: What's so funny? Master: I'm just surprised that you're such a good man. Kimura: Me * Oh, come on. You don't need to state the obvious."* Master: Now I just want to... eat you up! Kimura: No, stop it!
That day, it was evening before I woke up. After what happened yesterday, I couldn't sleep until early morning. Master closed the store down for the day, so I just slept until now. Hasaki: Th-The phone... It's Kimura-san! Hasaki: Kimura-san? Kimura: Yeah, it's me. Hasaki: What happened? Kimura: Well, that incident from yesterday is being treated as a suicide, so no one is accusing me of being a murderer. Hasaki: Oh, that's good. Kimura: The police don't think that I'm the culprit, but they're investigating me as a person potentially involved with the past several deaths. Hasaki: R-Really? Kimura: Apparently, a drug dealer was attacked by a young man last night. Hasaki: A drug dealer? Um... Kimura: Illegal drugs, of course. After that, the members of some sort of gang moved to protect themselves, and the police have been moving in response to them. Kimura: People have told me that I should just hand myself in to the police. The police would put me in jail at worse, but this gang would kill me if they caught me. Hasaki: W-Will you be okay? Kimura: I was investigating the drug trade in this town, so it's not like I'm completely unrelated. One of my friends is trying to help clear up the misunderstanding. Kimura: I met with a bunch of people who wanted to talk about that stuff, so I wasn't able to gather much information today. Sorry. Hasaki: You don't have to be sorry. You had a lot on your plate. Kimura: I sure did. I'm not completely cleared of all guilt yet either, so it's not like this is past tense. Kimura: If we can bring the truth to light, people will have no reason to doubt me anymore. Then I won't be targeted by anyone. But right now both the police and the thugs are looking for me. Kimura: The police think that the deaths might've happened under the influence of illegal drugs, even if they weren't homicides. They're definitely still investigating the situation. Hasaki: Under the influence... Kimura: Yeah. That's the reason why I wanted to investigate the drug trade here. This city is pretty famous for being the center of a lot of drug activity. Hasaki: What about my brother? Kimura: It doesn't seem like he's being targeted. All the attention is focused on me right now. Kimura: But that's just a matter of time. Kimura: The police say that they've gotten the names of several students who were in frequent contact with the dead drug dealer, though. Hasaki: Did my brother know those people? Kimura: I don't think the police will hear his name from any of them. At the very least, I've never seen him talking to any of them. Kimura: But if any of the students who were buying drugs happen to get caught, there's a good chance they might snitch on your brother. Kimura: I've seen him taking drugs away from them with my own eyes. Hasaki: I see... Kimura: And the things that happened at Kita High... Like when your brother injured a teacher. Hasaki: Did something like that actually happen? Kimura: They say that he smashed a flower vase over a teacher's head during class. Kimura: The school hasn't told the police about what happened, but that's probably just a matter of time too. Kimura: Because of his unusual behavior, people will assume that he's got his hands in the drug trade as well. Hasaki: Oh... Kimura: Well, for better or worse, they're chasing me because I was in the school when Mrs. Senagawa jumped off the roof and killed herself, so they're not focused on anyone else right now. Hasaki: Sorry. It seems like I've gotten you into a lot of trouble. Kimura: What do you mean? This is my job. I got involved because I wanted to. It's a lot of fun being right in the middle of everything, though. Hasaki: Hahaha, try to be serious here. I wouldn't want anything to happen to you. Kimura: What if it did? Are you worried about me? Hasaki: Of course I'm worried about you. Kimura: That must be my adult charm at work. Hasaki: You don't have any of that. Kimura: Oh, you're so quick to cut me down. Kimura: Oh, right. There's one more thing, but I'm not sure if I should tell you about this. Hasaki: What is it? Kimura: Your brother... He came home. Hasaki: Huh? Kimura: I don't know whether he's the man you call Tomosane, though. Kimura: Anyway, I have somewhere else I have to go right now. Hasaki: U-Um, Kimura-san! Hasaki: He hung up... Nii-san is in the house? That was probably the new Yuki-san. She was always the one I saw at the house. But if it was Tomo Nii-san... Hasaki: If Tomo Nii-san went back to the house, he wouldn't know that I'm staying here. I hadn't thought of a way of telling him that. I thought Kimura-san might be able to tell him, but Kimura-san wasn't watching the house at all times. If Tomo Nii-san came home when no one was there... Hasaki: No one would be able to tell him where I am. Hasaki: I don't know who's in the house right now, but... But still, if that was Tomo Nii-san... And even if it wasn't him, the other two wouldn't be able to recognize me at all. In the classroom, they just recognize me as the twins, but in the house I would probably be removed from their consciousness in order to maintain consistency. Hasaki: Maybe... Maybe I should leave a note for Nii-san, in case he comes home, telling him that I'm at the Hakushuukyou bar. Hasaki: There's no danger, right? I knew I was just making convenient excuses for my actions. No matter what the reason, though, I wanted to be sure. It'd been so long since I saw Tomo Nii-san... I just wanted to see him again. If there was even a small chance of seeing him again, then I'd bet it all on that. I took the train from Suginomiya back to my house. It wasn't that far. It always felt like a quick ride before, but this time it was a very long train ride. Hasaki: Haa... As I watched the scenery drift by... I thought about a lot of different things. About today. About the past. About Tomo Nii-san's relationship with Takuji Nii-san. And about Yuki-san, who protected me. And, after that... the days I've lived with him since that day. No, not just with him. I lived those days with Tomo Nii-san and Yuki-san, and Takuji Nii-san as well. The incident that changed everything in my life, and the incident that completely changed my family... Everything from that moment in time, leading up to me being here today... Tomo Nii-san's kindness... Takuji Nii-san's curse... And Yuki-san's... Hasaki: Ah! I was lost in thought, but then a sign flashed by with my station's name on it. The train slowed as it approached the station. I arrived at my destination. There was a light on in the house. So he really did come home. Hasaki: I wonder who it is. There was a light on in the living room. Someone was in my brother's room on the second floor. I quietly went upstairs. He was doing something with his phone in the middle of the room. That wasn't his phone. None of them really spend that much time playing with their phone. I wonder who it is... Mamiya: They were deleted just yesterday, so I should be able to retrieve all the important messages. Mamiya: There was a list of the different messages from Takashima around here. He was doing something with the phone while watching the computer out of the corner of his eye. He must be investigating something. Mamiya: Whoa... There are a ton of them. I wonder whose phone that is. Mamiya: This doesn't seem like a ghost. It looks like someone was leading Mrs. Senagawa on. Mrs. Senagawa. She's the one who died yesterday. He must be investigating Mrs. Senagawa's death, which means... Hasaki: It's Yuki-san... Or maybe Tomo Nii-san? Which one is it? I couldn't tell because he wasn't saying much. If I come out now, Yuki-san won't recognize me, but Tomo Nii-san will. Then I should just go for it. Mamiya: I'm just curious. He called someone with the phone in his hand. And then... Mamiya: Huh?! There was a quiet ringing sound in the room. Which means that the phone he called was in the room. Hasaki: ... For some reason, he was shocked by that fact. It was like he couldn't believe what he was hearing. Mamiya: Why is the sound coming from inside this room when I called Takashima-san's phone? He called Takashima-san's phone? Then that ringing just now was Takashima-san's phone? Mamiya: What the―! He pulled open the desk drawer where the sound was coming from. And lying there was... Mamiya: This is... That cell phone. It was the phone that Takuji Nii-san brought back to the house a few days ago. I remembered how he was touching it and mumbling something to himself. I remembered that it was creepy how the case was broken. That was... Takashima-san's phone. But why would Takuji Nii-san have something like that? Mamiya: Takashima... Zakuro's cell phone? He fearfully picked up the phone. He probably didn't know that Takuji Nii-san was the one that put it there. Does that mean this is the new Yuki-san? Mamiya: N-No way... Wait. For the moment, just calm down. After looking at the phone, he collapsed back into his chair. Mamiya: Wh-What am I doing... Kuh... What's this? When he sat down, he knocked some white powder off the table... What is that powder? Mamiya: Wh-What am I doing? He opened the window and tried to dump the powder out the window, but then the wind blew it all over the room. Mamiya: What's wrong with me? Hasaki: Whoa. I looked at the door post that I was holding onto and saw fingerprints on it. Hasaki: They use this stuff in detective shows, right? It was some kind of powder that reveals fingerprints. I didn't know he had something like that. Mamiya: Huh? What is this? I heard a note of despair in his voice. Mamiya: These are... The scattered powder showed all the fingerprints in the room. On the desk, on the drawer, on the closet... Nii-san trembled at the sight of those fingerprints. Mamiya: Th-They're the same as the ones on Takashima-san's desk... Why? Mamiya: Wh-Why? Her cell phone is in my room, as well as the same fingerprints that were on her desk. Mamiya: Why? It was the new Yuki-san. And she was under a terrible misunderstanding. Those were her own fingerprints. She thought those were someone else's fingerprints. They're probably the fingerprints of the culprit she was chasing after. In other words, they were Takuji Nii-san's fingerprints. She was probably terrified because she saw Takuji Nii-san's fingerprints all over the room. Of course his fingerprints were all over the room. Because Yuki-san and Takuji Nii-san are the same person, they have the same fingerprints. It's not surprising at all that his fingerprints would be all over the room. Mamiya: This is... When I saw Yuki-san trembling like that, I ran into the room without thinking. Mamiya: Huh? When she saw me, Yuki-san's expression froze. Oh, shoot... I was just worried about Yuki-san. Hasaki: U-Um, Yuki-san, wait! Hasaki: Calm down! You don't need to be afraid of me! Mamiya: Eek! N-No good. She probably did recognize me, but she refused the information. When someone refuses to recognize something, that recognition always turns to fear. So right now I must be terrifying to her. Hasaki: I'm sorry, Yuki-san. Hasaki: Um... Mamiya: Aaaaaahh! Hasaki: Yuki-san! Hasaki: ... What was I doing? I probably only confused Yuki-san even more, and in a situation like that... I'm really the worst. Hasaki: Haa... Anyway, I should clean this up. I wiped off all the powder on the surfaces in the room. Then... Kimura: Hasaki-chan, you came back to the house. Hasaki: Oh, yeah... Kimura-san apologized when he saw my expression and figured out what had happened. Kimura: I guess I shouldn't have said anything. It wasn't him. Hasaki: Yes. Kimura: Oh... Sorry, I guess my information wasn't useful this time. Kimura: I had someone watching the house for me. He told me someone was in the house, so I came back to see who it was. Hasaki: What about the job you were doing? Kimura: Yeah, we're pretty much finished. Kimura: I can't do anything about the police, but I managed to clear up the misunderstanding with the people I work with. Hasaki: That's good to hear. Kimura: And I did a bit of digging while I was there. Kimura: You said something happened seven years ago, so I went through all the national and local newspapers from that time period. Kimura: I found out about a certain incident that took place in a town called Sawaimura. Kimura: Everyone involved was underage, so there were no names. I got in touch with the reporter, though, and made him give me the names. Kimura: This tragedy began on that day. Kimura: I'm right, aren't I? Hasaki: Yes. Kimura: Tell me if I'm wrong about any of this... Or, well, I understand if you don't want to talk about it. Pretend like I'm just talking to myself. Kimura: But if my inference is correct, then I might be able to find this Tomosane-kun that you've been looking for. Hasaki: ... Kimura: The Mamiya Takuji-kun here today... isn't the real Mamiya Takuji-kun. Hasaki: ... Kimura: The person who is called Mamiya Takuji today isn't listed as Mamiya Takuji on the family register. Kimura: According to official records, Mamiya Takuji is already dead. Kimura: He's a person that no longer exists. Kimura: The family register says that the only living brother you have today is the eldest Mamiya brother, Mamiya Tomosane. Kimura: The person you call Tomo Nii-san. Kimura: Is that correct? Hasaki: ... Hasaki: Yes. Kimura: And during the incident which happened seven years ago, he killed Mamiya Takuji-kun. Hasaki: Ah... Hasaki: No, that's not true. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san didn't kill him. Hasaki: It's not his fault! Tomo Nii-san was just― Kimura: I understand. I heard what happened back then. Kimura: Tomosane-kun was the victim. It wasn't his fault. Kimura: It was a classic case of self-defense. Mamiya Takuji-kun was the one at fault. Kimura: He was just protecting you from Takuji-kun, who threatened you with a knife, and then Takuji-kun was killed in the struggle. Kimura: It was a complete accident. Kimura: No one has any reason to blame Tomosane-kun. Kimura: That was the official ruling as well. Kimura: But there were some people who thought differently. Kimura: One was your mother, and the other was... Kimura: Tomosane-kun himself. Kimura: He felt so much guilt for killing his own brother, Mamiya Takuji, that he denied his own personality. Kimura: He wanted to do something for Mamiya Kotomi-san, who had been traumatized by the loss of her Takuji-kun... and so his personality changed, as if Takuji-kun's soul had been transferred into his body. Kimura: he doctor's diagnosis was secondary structural dissociation associated with PTSD. Personality misidentification thought to be a type of dissociative disorder or depersonalization. Kimura: The symptoms include a disassociation of the experiencing self and the observing self, but it's rare for the disassociated self to take the shape of a dead person like Mamiya Takuji-kun. Kimura: To put it simply, he has a disease which causes him to mistake himself for another person. That was the diagnosis. Kimura: I met the doctor who first diagnosed him. Kimura: Normally, he wouldn't be able to tell me any of this, but he opened up when I told him that Tomosane-kun might be related to the recent deaths. Kimura: But the doctor didn't know how far his case had progressed. Kimura: He was shocked when he heard that the disassociated self had split into a third personality. Kimura: The third personality... In other words, he has dissociative identity disorder, which is more commonly known as multiple personality disorder. Kimura: These symptoms appeared after he got out of the hospital. Kimura: From what I've heard, his mother made a unilateral decision to stop all treatment. Kimura: It's still a mystery why Minakami Yuki and Tomosane-kun's personalities later reappeared. Kimura: And something else I heard from the doctor... There's no clear medical reason why he would begin to believe his own name is Yuuki Tomosane rather than Mamiya Tomosane. Kimura: The only thing they can say for sure is that these symptoms appeared in his particular case. Kimura: After that, your mother raised Tomosane-kun as if he was actually Takuji-kun. Kimura: That's why he's listed as Mamiya Takuji in the school records. Kimura: Of course, that's inconsistent with the family register, but the school never had a reason to investigate him. Kimura: Kotomi-san also must've forged quite a few official documents. Otherwise, there are too many things that can't be explained. Kimura: We don't know whether she did all this maliciously, or if she was simply out of her mind. Kimura: The tragedy unfolding right now was engendered by the tragedy of seven years past. Hasaki: That's not true. Kimura: ... Hasaki: What happened seven years ago isn't causing all of this to happen. Hasaki: My birth itself set into motion all the events leading up to today. Hasaki: The tragedy began in the moment that I was born into this world. Kimura: That's wrong. Hasaki: No, it's true. My life―my cursed life―brought unhappiness to everyone around me. Hasaki: I killed Takuji Nii-san, and I made Tomo Nii-san bear that curse. Hasaki: And Yuki-san, who was completely innocent... I got her wrapped up in this too. Hasaki: The entire tragedy came about because I was born. Kimura: No! That's not true! Kimura: Please don't say that! Kimura: What about the woman who saved your life so many years ago? What would she think if she heard you saying that? Kimura: The young daughter of Master Minakami, the one who protected you. Kimura: What about her? What would she think if she heard you saying such sad things about yourself? Hasaki: Yuki-san... Kimura: Minakami Yuki was the daughter of Master Minakami, the owner of Hakushuukyou. Kimura: His daughter put her life on the line to protect you both, so now he treats you like you're his own children. Kimura: He chose to give up his life as a warrior and live together with the two of you. Hasaki: Yes. Kimura: Your birth didn't cause any of this to happen. Kimura: It's not your fault. It's not Tomosane-kun's fault either. Kimura: So... Kimura: So we have to stop Mamiya Takuji. Kimura: We have to expel his vengeful spirit. Hasaki: Kimura-san... Hasaki: Aren't you completely unrelated to all of this? I wouldn't want to cause you more trouble. Kimura: What are you talking about? I'm here of my own free will. I want to be here for you until the end. Hasaki: Kimura-san... Kimura: Have I finally captivated you with my adult charm? What do you think? Hasaki: Kimura-san, are you an idiot? Hasaki: I... I only love Tomo Nii-san. Kimura: Hahaha, I know that. Kimura: I'm cursed to be a virgin forever. Kimura: I understand. Kimura: The kind of wonderful woman that I would fall in love with will always have someone else in their thoughts. Kimura: I'm used to getting turned down. Kimura: So go ahead and cry it out. Kimura: You can cry on my shoulder. Hasaki: Kimura-san... Hasaki: Are you seriously trying to seduce me? Kimura: Huh? Did you think I was joking? Hasaki: I mean, you and me... No matter what happened, that's a bit... Kimura: I guess so, hahaha. Kimura-san patted me on the head. Kimura: It's a joke. Just a joke. I know how much you love your Tomosane Nii-san. Kimura: There's no way you could fall in love with an old man like me. Hasaki: I might've considered it if Tomo Nii-san wasn't alive. Kimura: Huh? Hasaki: But Tomo Nii-san is still alive, so I can't. Kimura: I figured... Kimura-san drove me back to Hakushuukyou. On the way home... We passed over a hill I'd never gone over before. As I crested that hill... I saw the night's sun. It was in the same neighborhood where I'd grown up, but I never even knew these huge sunflowers were here. The downy flowers sparkled white with dew. The moon was blue and the flowers were yellow. It looked as if the sun and moon each stood in the other's place. The ever-dazzling sun stood upon our Earth, and the moon in the sky finally shone with its own brilliance. The yellow of the sunflower was dyed with the blue of the moonlight. It was a beautiful sight to behold. But the vigorously blooming sunflowers looked somehow frail. Sunflowers reaching out to the darkness of a night sky. My eyes chased after the sunflowers even as I sat inside the car. Like suns reflecting the light of the moon. Suns bathed in blue... My eyes followed them until they faded from view. I never told Master where I was going, so he was very stern with me. He was so mad at me that he made me cry. But when I saw how upset he was, I felt like I really understood what Kimura-san was trying to tell me before. Master... Yuki-san's father... He loves us like his children. The very same children who Yuki-san gave her life to protect. Kimura-san escorted me to the bar and then went back to the Mamiya house. Kimura: There are still a lot of things I need to investigate. Kimura: Next time I see him, I'll bring him to you if I can confirm who he is. Kimura: I just need to check whether or not he's your Tomo Nii-san. ......... ...... ... Near midnight, the bar's heavy door opened. The bell on the door tinkled quietly. Even though the sign had read closed all day. Master tried to tell the customer that we weren't open today. Then he froze in place. A familiar face stood in the doorway. A face I'd seen just hours before. But something was a little different. Master: O-Oh? Kimura: Hello... It's me, Kimura. Master: Oh, does that mean... Kimura took a bow, as if he was introducing a royal guest. The person that Kimura-san had brought with him... There was only one person it could be. It was exactly who I was looking for. My jaw shook as I tried to say something. The words were stuck in my throat. I couldn't get the words to come out right. Just one word... It's just my brother's name. I gathered all my courage... Just so that I could speak. Hasaki: T-Tomo Nii-san? The man in front of me gave a sly smile. Then he finally answered. Tomosane: Yeah... It's me, Tomosane. Hasaki: Uwaaaah! Tomosane: Wh-Whoa, Hasaki. I jumped into his arms so fast that he fell back against the door. I couldn't restrain myself. I couldn't hold back. I just cried into his chest. It was Tomo Nii-san, right here with me. The Tomosane Nii-san who I fell in love with. The person who was always, always there by my side. He tried to mask his embarrassment by laughing at me. His was a smile that neither Yuki-san nor Takuji Nii-san could ever replicate. There was only one person in the world that could show me a smile like that. That's why... That's why I... Hasaki: I thought I would never see you again. I was so sure. Things were just getting crazier and crazier with Takuji Nii-san. Tomosane: Crazy, huh? I guess so... Hasaki: You probably don't know what's been happening, but a lot of people have been dying and going missing. Tomosane: No, I can follow the traces of his memory. I do share the same brain with that bastard, for what it's worth. Master: Huh? You can do that? Tomosane: I learned how to do it just recently. I got a bit of training. Master: Hmm, and it seems like you've grown up a bit since I last saw you. Something's changed, for sure. Did something happen? Tomosane: Nothing in particular, really * After Mamiya Takuji beat me up, I spent a lot of time wandering through a dream."* Master: A dream? Tomosane: Yeah. I met Yuki for a little while. Master: Yuki? Oh, I see. Hmm... Tomosane: What? Master looked very happy. Master never told Yuki-san's personality that he was actually her father. Neither did Yuki-san ever know that she had been Master's daughter when she was alive. People view Yuki-san as nothing more than a split personality, the side effect of a disease. As if she was nothing more than another one of Tomo Nii-san's delusions. But Master always believed. He always believed that the Yuki-san personality really was his daughter, and that her soul had gone into Tomo Nii-san's body so that she could save him. He told me that Yuki-san was still here on Earth because she needed to protect Tomo Nii-san and expel Takuji's curse from his body. Dissociative identity disorder. It's easy to rationalize the phenomenon with a label, but the human heart has more intricacies than that diagnosis could ever convey. And the soul, too, holds its own secrets. Master: Hahahaha, I can still see a bit of her in you. Tomosane: Who? Master: Oh, nothing. I'm just talking to myself. Besides, don't you need to talk to Hasaki-chan about something? Tomosane: Yes. Master: Weren't you in a rush? Go right ahead. Tomosane: All right. Then Nii-san took a step away from me. He saw the disappointment on my face and held up one finger, as if to say that it would only be for a moment. Even a moment together with him was precious to me. Master: Hmm? Tomosane: But first... Master! Master: What? Tomosane: Please step outside! Master: Outside? What, you want to talk to me alone? Tomosane: No. I'm telling you to step outside with me! Master: Huh? Master: You want to hook up?! Tomosane: No! I'm telling you to step your ass outside! Master: Hehehe... What's wrong? This is rare from you. Tomosane: It's not just rare. It's the first time... Asking your instructor to step outside is like suicide. Master: But you're still saying it? Tomosane: Yes... Please. Master: All right. Hasaki: Huh? Tomo Nii-san? Tomosane: The truth is, I came home just to tell you one thing. But there's something I have to confirm before I can say it. Hasaki: U-Um, Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: I had a dream... Hasaki: A dream? Master: That's what you said earlier. You met Yuki, right? Tomosane: Yes, I met Yuki, and she taught me how to control my dreams. Master: Controlling your dreams, huh? Like a lucid dream? Tomosane: You know about it? Master: Yeah, that state of mind is often used in the world of martial arts. Tomosane: Is it? Then I definitely need to ask you something, so please step outside. Master: Jeez, is that the hip new catchphrase that all the fresh meat are saying? Tomosane: Please don't call me fresh meat. That's disgusting. Hasaki: Huh? Wh-What? Hasaki: Master? Tomo Nii-san? Tomosane: Just give us a moment. Hasaki: B-But I haven't seen you in so long... Tomosane: Don't worry about me. I'll be right back. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san! I tried to chase after him. Then Kimura-san stopped me. Hasaki: Kimura-san! Kimura: alm down. They're probably just going up to the roof. Hasaki: The roof? Kimura: Yeah, they go up there if they're going to practice martial arts. That's what I heard, anyway. Hasaki: Why do they need to practice? Kimura: No, today they're not practicing. Hasaki: Wh-What are you talking about? Kimura: Tomosane-kun is trying to surpass his master, Minakami-san. Hasaki: Huh? He's trying to beat Master? Kimura: Yeah, that's right. Hasaki: Wh-Why? Kimura: I think you should hear that from Tomosane-kun. Hasaki: Kh! Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san! Hasaki: It's been so long, Tomo Nii-san! Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san! Tomosane: H-Hasaki? Kimura: Ahahaha, I couldn't stop her. She insisted... Hasaki: Master, stop it! Tomo Nii-san looks awful. Tomosane: Shut up! Just be quiet, Hasaki! Hasaki: Ah... Master: Oh... Is that what you really want to say to her? Hasaki: ...I'm not going to shut up... Hasaki: I'm not going to shut up! Do... Do you understand how I feel seeing... Tomosane: I understand. Hasaki: You don't understand! You're only saying that because you don't understand! Tomosane: That's not true! Tomosane: It's not because I don't understand. I'm only saying this because I really do understand. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: I only came back because there was one thing I needed to tell you. Tomosane: If I say those words, then nothing else matters. Hasaki: That's what I mean! You don't understand at all! You can't just say one thing and leave! I want to sit and talk with you more... I want to talk with you as long as I can, Tomo Nii-san! Hasaki: But you always make up your mind and decide things on your own. Tomosane: Yeah, that's right. You're right, Hasaki. I'm always being stubborn and making selfish decisions. Hasaki: Then why is there just one thing? That's nowhere near enough! I want to talk to you more! Just one thing isn't enough! Tomosane: Hasaki... How many is enough? If this one thing I came to tell you isn't enough, then how many is? Hasaki: I don't know. I just want to talk to you more, more, more... As much as I can... That's all. Tomosane: Me too... Hasaki: Huh? Tomosane: I want to talk to you, Hasaki! Not just about one thing, but as much as I can! Tomosane: That's why I came here tonight to tell you this one thing! Hasaki: Huh? You mean... Tomosane: I won't disappear! I will beat Mamiya Takuji! And I'll still be here to protect you! Hasaki: T-Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: It won't be Yuki or Master protecting you... It will be me! Tomosane: Hasaki! I'll come home alive! I'll definitely come back for you! Tomosane: So don't worry! Hasaki: T-Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: I'll beat this stupid tranny, and then I'll beat Mamiya Takuji! Master: Who's a stupid tranny? That's not how you should talk to your master, especially after he just beat you up. Tomosane: Sorry, Master... I shouldn't have said that, but... Tomosane: I will defeat you! Master: I can see your knees quaking, you know? Tomosane: A warrior shakes with anticipation before a battle! Master: You've sure changed. Tomosane: I'm fed up with all this shit. I don't care about being cool and mysterious or whatever anymore. Tomosane: I'm totally done with that shit, so yeah, I've changed. He was already beaten up. He got knocked around by Master before I came. He was covered in bruises and cuts. Anyone could see that there was a difference in absolute power here. The situation was desperate. And still, he fought on. Tomosane: Master, you never could beat the master back at the dojo, my grandfather. Master: Of course not. Who could? Master: This school of ancient martial arts, passed down from the Sengoku Period, has just a few hundred basic techniques. Master: There are tens of thousands of different combinations of those techniques. Master: But for him, that wasn't a problem. He had some sort of primal instinct... Well, that was a very religious dojo, and each successor to the dojo had something like psychic powers. Tomosane: That blood flows in my veins too... That's probably what I'm feeling right now. Tomosane: I gave you my word... Tomosane: Now it's my turn. Master: Your... turn? Tomosane: Controlling one's dreams... I only understood the meaning of those words by standing here before you, Master, in the real world. Master: Grr... Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san! It felt like time stopped in that moment. Time stood still, not moving into the past or the future. Like something that simply exists. The next moment seemed to stretch into eternity. The two silhouettes sprang into motion. Master: Ugh! Master: Whoa... Take... it easy... Tomosane: ...I did it! Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san! You're covered in bruises... Kimura: Wow... He won. Master: Hey, isn't anyone worried about me? Hasaki: Does it hurt? Tomosane: I would be lying if I said it didn't. I went and got the medicine box. Why did he have to get beaten up right after he came back? He's just like he always was. Every time Tomo Nii-san comes back to me, it's just like this. Hasaki: You're covered in bruises. Tomosane: Well, I got in a bit of a fight. Of course I am. Every time you come back, you look like this... I almost said that, but then I stopped. Tomo Nii-san had no memory of the distant past. He was convinced that he was actually Mamiya Takuji, and his personality was just created by Takuji Nii-san. So... Tomo Nii-san had thrown away all of his own memories. And all of our happy days in Sawaimura, too. Hasaki: Why would you do that? Jeez, Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: I told you. I did it so I could protect you. Hasaki: But... Tomosane: So that I can be with you from now on. Hasaki: You'll be with me... from now on? Tomosane: Yeah, that's right. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san, you won't go away? Tomosane: Of course not. I'm not going anywhere. We can talk for as long as you want. Hasaki: Really? Tomosane: Really. Hasaki: But you always lie to me like that. Tomosane: Heh... I guess I do. Hasaki: Honestly, I want to tie you up with duct tape so you can't go anywhere. Tomosane: That might work. Hasaki: Yeah, but... Hasaki: I believe in you, Tomo Nii-san... Hasaki: I've been betrayed so many times before, but I still believe in you, Tomo Nii-san. Tomosane: Why? I'm such a good-for-nothing brother. Hasaki: Because you're my hero. Tomosane: Hero? Hasaki: That's right. The hero is stronger than the savior. Tomosane: What? That doesn't make any sense. Hasaki: But it's true. Tomosane: You're right. Tomosane: I'm stronger than him. Tomosane: I definitely won't lose. My promise with Tomo Nii-san. He broke the last promise, but... I still believe. Because he's my brother, and he's my hero. So I'll believe in him.
... The wind made no sound. Until just now, I had heard the wind blowing. Why did the wind stop blowing? Hasaki: Huh?! Hasaki: I'm in the store? Hasaki: B-But I was on the roof just now. Kimura: Tomosane-kun carried you down here. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san? Hasaki: Th-Then where is he now? Kimura: Um... Hasaki: Kimura-san! Kimura: I don't think I can tell you that. Hasaki: Kimura-san! Kimura: Y-Yeah, uh.. * This is a promise between men."* Hasaki: A promise between men? Kimura: Yes, because I could never hold back a man who has set off for battle. Hasaki: To battle? Okay, great. Thanks, see you later! Kimura: Huh? Kimura: Whoa! Why are you running off? Hasaki: There's only one place where Tomo Nii-san would go to fight! Kimura: Huh? Why? Hasaki: If he's going to fight with Takuji Nii-san, then Kita High is the only place! Kimura: But do you know where in Kita High? Hasaki: I won't know until I get there! Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san! Kimura: So... where is he? Hasaki: What, didn't he tell you? Kimura: Nope, he didn't tell me a thing. Hasaki: Then he didn't make you swear not to tell! You just didn't know! Kimura: Well, I guess. Hasaki: Huh?! Who's that? Kimura: Huh? Wh-Where? There on the moonlit rooftop... There was only one silhouette. There was only one person... But it looked like he was facing off against some adversary. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san! A statue underneath the moon. A lone figure. Something at his chest glittered and gleamed. The hand held in front of his chest grasped the same knife from before. It was the same pose as the one from seven years ago. The only difference was that a single figure stood in the darkness, not two. The knife's tip was aimed at his own heart. Hasaki: No! You can't! Tomosane: Huh? I saw his face in the shadows, and I instantly knew who it was. There's only one person in the world who could make that expression, a mixture of kindness and irritation. Hasaki: Y-You can't... Tomo Nii-san, you can't do that. Tomosane: Why did you follow me? Kimura: Ahahaha... Sorry about that. Tomosane: Damn it, Kimura... Tomosane: Crap. I forgot to lock the door. If I had locked it, you wouldn't have been able to follow me up here. Hasaki: You can't... Tomo Nii-san, I-I won't let you do that! Tomosane: Hasaki... Hasaki: If that's what you were planning to do... I should've just tied you up and never let you leave. Tomosane: I told you, that was also an option. In that moment, when Tomo Nii-san was worrying about me... His expression changed for just a split seocnd. For a split second, his expression changed into... someone else's. I tried to scream. But it ended before I could get the scream out of my mouth. That thing ended... Like fibers cracking upon steel. Then, blood and flesh... The sound rang out, lonesome in the dark. The dirge of the end... It was a messenger, telling me that this was the end. Tomosane: Ah?! Cold iron flashed in the dark. Bright red blood danced across the blade. An endless, jet black sky hung over our heads. The moon tinted our lacquer sky with shades of blue. The steel flashed. The red blood flowed. Everything turned white. All I could see... Was white. Those words I never could say... Those words I never could hold back... All those words caught in my throat, and then my breath came out as a scream. Hasaki: NOOOOOO! Hasaki: No, Tomo Nii-san! NOOOOO! I could only scream. Tears ran down my face as I screamed for him. Tomosane: At the very end, I still messed up, huh? Tomosane: Pre-established... harmony, huh? Tomosane: I see. So in your eyes, I've already outlived my purpose. Tomo Nii-san whispered as if he was talking to himself. He must have been talking to Takuji Nii-san. I couldn't tell what had happened to the two of them. All I knew was that Nii-san had stabbed himself in the chest with a knife. As a result of that action, no one could be the victor. If his phyiscal body died... It would mean the death of three souls. Why did it have to come to this? I crumpled and fell on the spot. My voice caught in my throat. The tears wouldn't stop. The trembling wouldn't stop. Tomosane: Hey, Hasaki... I'm sorry... Tomosane: It looks like I won't be able to keep my promise. This is the end for me. Tomosane: Haa... I couldn't do anything for you, Hasaki... could I... Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... Hasaki: That's not true... That's not true... Tomo Nii-san, don't go... Tomosane: There's nothing I can do... I've been beaten... Tomosane: Nothing I can do... huh? Tomosane: Is this too reality? Tomosane: Then I can only accept it... Hasaki: ...Uwaah... Kh... Tomosane: Haa... If this is how it was going to end, I shouldn't have used the last of my time like this... Tomosane: I should've spent my time with you... Tomosane: Hahahaha... I've been an awful brother too... Tomosane: I haven't changed at all... Tomosane: Now then... Farewell, Mamiya Takuji. Congratulations. You've won. Tomosane: And I've lost... I ran over to Tomo Nii-san. I put my arms around him and held him close. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... Don't go. Tomosane: You dummy... Don't come near me. It's dangerous. Tomosane: This body will be Mamiya Takuji's soon. I'm going to disappear. Hasaki: You can't disappear, Tomo Nii-san! Please! Tomosane: Yeah... I don't really want to disappear. Tomosane: I wanted to be with you longer. Hasaki: Then please, don't go! Let's go home. Let's go home together. Let's just go home... Tomosane: You're right... That was the promise. Hasaki: Yeah, it was... Tomosane: To be together forever... and talk as much as we wanted... Hasaki: Yeah, you promised we could talk as much as we wanted... I still want to talk to you, Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: We didn't talk enough, did we? Tomosane: Let's... talk. Hasaki: Yeah, I-I... Last night, I saw a big sunflower. The flower I saw on the hill at night. I saw that sun of the night on a road I never passed by. In a world ruled by the azure, the sunflowers shone bright with yellow. I told him about the sunflowers. The sunflowers on the hill. Hasaki: A big sunflower, yellow and beautiful in the sky... Tomosane: A sunflower... Hasaki: It's already summer, you know? It's the middle of the summer... I knew that sun in the night. Because we had seen that same sun together before. Hasaki: Summer break is coming soon. I wish I could've gone somewhere with you this year, Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: Summer, huh? Hasaki: Yeah. You said you wouldn't ever leave me, so I wanted to go on vacation somewhere this summer. Hasaki: Because this summer, it seemed like we were getting along again. Hasaki: This summer break... let's go back to our old town, together. Tomosane: Our town? Hasaki: That's right. Our town. Where you and I were together before. Tomosane: That... Tomo Nii-san gently laughed. Tomosane: How did I forgot that? We were there together before. Hasaki: Yeah, so this summer... let's go back. Tomosane: This... summer? Hasaki: Yeah, Tomo Nii-san! Tomosane: Yeah, of course. Tomosane: This... summer? Hasaki: Kimura-san, call an ambulance! Takuji: What?! Hasaki: Ah! Nii-san pushed me away and stood on his own two feet. Takuji: What is this?! Takuji: Ow, damn... Hasaki: Nii-san, don't move! I tried to stop him, but he slapped away my hand. Hasaki: N-Nii-san... Kimura: Th-That's... His face was different from before. His voice was different. He looked precisely the same, and yet it was like he was a completely different person. As he stood up, there in the moonlight, he looked like a vengeful demon back from the grave. Kimura: Hasaki-chan, be careful! Hasaki: Nii-san! Kimura: Don't do it! That's not Tomosane-kun! That's the man who tried to kill you! Hasaki: Nii-san! Nii-san! Kimura: It's dangerous! Stop! You know how dangerous Mamiya Takuji really is! Kimura: Now he has hundreds of believers under his control too! Hasaki: Nii-san! Nii-san! Please, come back! Kimura: It's dangerous! Get back here! I'll call the police and the ambulance! Takuji: But... I still have so many things I have to do... Takuji: Agh... Takuji: Now, let's go home, to the ark. The final day is at hand. He disappeared into the shadow of the building, holding his wound. Kimura: Hasaki-chan! Hasaki: I'm sorry! Kimura: Whoa! Hasaki: Kimura-san, I'm really sorry, but... I chased after my brother. I found a small door over where he'd disappeared. There was a steel ladder hanging there. Hasaki: ... The ladder led all the way down into the darkness underground. I was definitely scared, but... Still, I went. It was packed full of people down there. An incredible number of people. Just how many people could they cram into a place like this? Hasaki: Nii-san... I tried to find my brother among the crowd of people. Just find him... Kimika: Huh? Someone saw me and then started to talk to me. Kimika: Why are you here? Hasaki: Huh? Kimika: Oh, that's right. You don't know about me, do you? Kimika: I just know about you because I investigated the savior's background and personal details. Hasaki: Do you know my brother? Kimika: Well, yeah, I do. Hasaki: Where is he? He's in a lot of trouble! Kimika: ... That woman stopped to think hard about something. She then laughed caustically. Kimika: That's right, isn't it? He's not just our savior. He's also your brother, too. Kimika: I have to eliminate anyone who would interfere with the plan. Hasaki: ...Ah! Kimika: I thought I was ready to do anything, but I'm not that cold-hearted. I wonder if there's anything I can do. Kimika: The savior is in the room toward the back. Kimika: Follow the wall right next to the ladder, where you came down. Hasaki: Th-Thank you so much. Kimika: Well, God only knows what will happen now. Hasaki: God only knows? Kimika: Yeah, so * I'm just saying that now your brother has to decide whether he wants to be our savior, or your brother."* Kimika: It would be better if God had decided that. Hasaki: ... That was his secret room. I came here with Kimura-san before. It was disguised to look like part of the wall. The only reason I saw it before was because the curtains were lifted. Hasaki: Nii-san... Takuji: ... Hasaki: Nii-san! Takuji: ...... Nii-san... Takuji Nii-san was mumbling something to himself. My voice didn't even reach him. Because Takuji Nii-san hated me. Because he thought I should just disappear. So he couldn't even see me. I understand. But... Hasaki: Just forgive him! Just forgive Tomo Nii-san, please! Why can't you just disappear already?! Hasaki: Disappear! Takuji: Who are you? Takuji: The Wakatsuki sisters? Hasaki: No! I'm Hasaki. I'm the sister you hated, Mamiya Hasaki! Takuji: The twins are here, huh? Hasaki: No! That doll wasn't my twin! Hasaki: You and I were the real twins! Hasaki: You and me! Hasaki: Not this rabbit doll! Hasaki: You and I are twins, Takuji Nii-san! Takuji: ... He just looked at me. His eyes were full of hate. Just like they were back then. Takuji: Oh, look. Two sources of the Black Surge just walked right on into the ark. Hasaki: Nii-san... Hasaki: Takuji Nii-san, why... Why would you do that to Tomo Nii-san? Takuji: I see... Yuuki's actions... His abnormal strength... Takuji: Hahaha... Is that it? I thought that hurdle was too high for my mother to have set. He was too strong. Takuji: It was you. You two lent him your power as sources of the Black Surge, just like the White Surge's Riruru did for me. I see. Takuji: So that's what Otonashi was talking about. It all makes sense now. The Destroyer, huh? Takuji: Yuuki was a Dark Savior created by you two to destroy me. He was created to prevent humanity's salvation. Takuji: It all makes sense now. Why he was so strong, why he hated me so much. It makes perfect sense. Takuji: But sadly for you two, this is the result. Takuji: The Dark Savior has died. Takuji: The Dark Savior was erased, and I, the true savior, remained on this earth. Takuji: This is my victory. That's right. I've won. Takuji: The battle between light and darkness... The battle between the White Surge and the Black Surge... I've won. The White Surge has won. Takuji: The savior has won. Hasaki: Why can't I reach you in there? Why? Hasaki: Are you satisfied now, Takuji Nii-san? Jeez... Takuji: Disappear... Hasaki: Why don't you just disappear? Takuji: I told you to disappear from my sight. Stop spreading the Black Surge. Hasaki: Takuji Nii-san, why? Why? Takuji: If you won't stop the Black Surge, then I guess I have no choice. Takuji: I'll forcibly expel you from this world. Takuji: Call the people! Yasuko: Huh? What? Takuji: Anyone will do! Call a bunch of men here! A bunch of people came over. Everyone was glaring at me. Male Student: What is it, my savior? Takuji: You've been having sex for ages now, right? Male Student: Well, uh... I wouldn't say for ages... Takuji: You like sex, right? You like adultery, right?! Male Student: Uh, yes! I love it. Takuji: Defile this woman. Male Student: Huh? Can we? Male Student: Are you serious? Hell yeah! Hasaki: Ah! Takuji: Not her! Male Student: Huh? Not her? But she's the only one here. Takuji: Don't touch that woman! Make her watch as her sister is defiled and then killed. Make her watch it all. Male Student: Um, what do you mean? Who is her sister? Takuji: That one with the long ears and the red eyes. That woman made out of cloth! Male Student: Huh? Y-You mean... Male Student: A-Are you serious? Are you talking about this doll? Takuji: That's right. We will defile her, and after she's been so defiled that she wants to die, we'll kill her... in the most painful way possible. Hasaki: Wh-What? Takuji: Hold her down! Male Student: Oh, okay... G-Got it. Hasaki: Noo! That's the doll that Tomo Nii-san made! Tomo Nii-san made it for me! Takuji: Your little sister? Yeah, I got it. I won't hurt her. All I really need is for you two to disappear from my sight. Takuji: The reason it turned out like this is because you were so defiant and got in my face every time you could... I'll forgive Tsukasa. Takuji: Your sister can't do anything without you, right? All she can do is hide behind you. Hasaki: Nii-san! Can you hear me, Tomo Nii-san?! Please, Tomo Nii-san! Hasaki: They're going to break the doll you made for me! Takuji: Shut up! Rape her! Male Student: R-Rape... Um, rape this? Takuji: It'll be fine. She won't resist. She's more worried about her sister. There's nothing to be afraid of. Male Student: Worried about her sister? You really mean this doll here? Male Student: Wait, wasn't this other girl your sister, my savior? Male Student: That's why we can't rape her, right? Takuji: What? Are you going to defy my orders? Male Student: Oh, no! We'll do it! Please, let us do it! Male Student: Hey, get over here, you guys. You have to fuck her too. Male Student: Huh? Me too? Male Student: It's the savior's order! Everyone: Yeah! Male Student: All right, we're starting to get into it! Takuji: Knock her out before you start. Male Student: Knock her out? Oh, okay! We'll give her a few good licks! Male Student: It's an order! Beat her up! Everyone: Yeah! The men all moved in and started to beat up the doll that Tomo Nii-san made for me. The parts that Yuki-san fixed up for me got torn open again. Hasaki: No, stop it! Male Student: Ehehehe... Wow, what a pose. Male Student: Hehehehehe, it's just to make sure the ritual goes smoothly... Are you stupid? Why would we stop? Hehehehe, the fun time is just beginning. Who are they talking to? They were kind of... mumbling and talking to the doll. It looked like all of their eyes weren't focused on any single point, too. Could they hear some voice that I couldn't? I was too scared to say a thing. I was trembling with fear, and Nii-san laughed with pleasure when he saw me trembling. Takuji: Hahaha, all you need to do is watch as your sister is defiled. Male Student: Now it's time for the show to begin. I can't wait. Hehehe, she's shaking already. I guess she's starting to figure out what's going to happen to her. Male Student: Ahahahaha, of course she is! She knows! She knows exactly what's going to happen! Male Student: What's this? Male Student: She's not wearing any... Male Student: Do you always walk around without any panties? Hasaki: ... I couldn't really hear what they were mumbling about as they hiked up the doll's skirt. Apparently, they were complaining that the doll wasn't wearing underwear. I don't really know why, though. Male Student: Whoa, her thigh really is soft! I can't take it! Male Student: I-I want to touch her too. Male Student: Wow, I can't stand it... Her pussy is totally pink. Male Student: P-Pull it open... Male Student: Whoa... Her pussy is so tight, like a child's... They pulled open one of the tears on the doll's underside. They were breaking the doll. The doll was already pretty old. Male Student: Open it wider. Male Student: The labia minora are inside the labia m-m-majora, right? Male Student: Y-Y-Yeah, that's r-right... So then, what would it be in th-this situation? His words became even more difficult to understand. Male Student: I don't really know, uh, the de-de... de-de-details uh, ah... Male Student: Her p-p-pussy, it's... uh, i-it's, uh... Male Student: H-How does it feeel? Uh, feels good? Male Student: Uh, ooh, she, she's being... d-d-d-def, uh, defiii― Male Student: Hey, answer us! How is it? Male Student: Sorry, d-don't, don't yell, n-n-n-n-n-noo, not yell... Male Student: Wh-Wh-What are, you... doing? S-Stop you... scary me... Male Student: Hehehehehe... Scared? The saver toold us, we can, we c-can break... you. Scared? Scary? Male Student: Sc-sc-sc-scar―, scaryscaryscaryscary... It, the light, it's... scare, scary. Male Student: Less you it. Her pussy... Male Student: Yeah, lest you it, have to. Male Student: N-No please, scare, scarescaryafraidscaryafraid, ee-eek, ah... Male Student: Look hard, hard, it hard. The bitch her critical lisp finally, she hard in... the window, the window now― Male Student: Her chitinous cliffff... She's ready for us. Her look, frigid itch whah, uh... Ho, ah! Male Student: soscarescaryscary―SCAREPLEASENOTTTHERE Male Student: Ahahahaha, do it more, more. Rub a dub dub, I'm in a tub. Male Student: Yeah, scare her, scare her, right in her PLEASE, NOT THERE! You had your meal, now eat your just desserts! Male Student: Ahahaha, that's great, that's amazing. I think my headache went away, away... Male Student: Sc-sc-scare her, scare her, give it to her there. We're on top of the fucking world. Sc-Sc-Scare her, scare her, cum in her hair. Hasaki: Ah! All the men were spouting pure nonsense, and then they suddenly started taking off their pants. I covered my eyes. Male Student: Suck it, bitch! Suck me dry like magnets and r-r-rye. Male Student: Love the cocks, love, love them aaaaallll, eeeehehehehe... Male Student: N-No, please, my mouth is so full with dicks, dicks and cocks, c-c-c-cock and balls... Male Student: Whoa, whoa ho hooooo! A d-dick here, a cock there, dicks and cocks all in the air! Male Student: Wh-What's it like? Her mouth, h-h-how izzz, her mouth inside her mouth like cream and custard, cust-t-tard, cast, cas―ji... Male Student: Ahwha, whawhaaa... Your mouth better get, get, get along with yeast and barleeeyy... Male Student: Ah, ahh... Ah, my Magnum, the day is not yet won! Male Student: Ah, ahhhh... I'm gonna cum. To arms, men! Male Student: The moment of ejaculation is truly... The moment of victory! I'm cumming! Male Student: Ah, we have won! Ahh, victory is on the horizon! Ooouhgh... Male Student: The moment of ejaculationn truly isss... true... victory... ohhgh. Male Student: M-More... Call more people! L-Let's do it over here... Male Student: Y-Y-Yeah, let's do it. We need more men to con... c-c-continue the fight... Male Student: Huh? But scary... I'm scared to fight... to fight... Hasaki: No, don't... The men carried the doll over to a larger open space nearby. Hasaki: No! Why would you do such horrible things?! Yasuko: Wh-What's going on here? Male Student: S-Say something, anything you want... We are praying for victory. Yasuko: M-Me, say something? To this doll? Male Student: H-Hurry, please... We will win, yes, we will triumph over the Black Surge. Kimika: Haa... Come on, just say something. Yasuko: Tachibana-senpai... Kimika: The girl in front of you is the elder of the two Wakatsuki sisters. Yasuko: Huh? This doll is? Kimika: Yeah, it is, you dumb bitch. Will you ever be saved if you can't even recognize evil when you see it? Yasuko: W-Wait, please. Uh... S-So you're the Wakatsuki sisters... Whatever, not like I care. Let's get started already. Male Student: H-H-Hurry, hurry up. Faster, faster... Yasuko: What are they doing? Kimika: They're going to make her masturbate for them. Yasuko: Huh? They're going to make the doll masturbate? Kimika: Haa... Here, take some more elixir. You clearly haven't reached enlightenment yet. You need to drink a lot more before you'll understand. Yasuko: O-Okay... Thank you. The entire crowd was looking at the rabbit doll. Everyone just stared at the unmoving doll. What did they see? There were a lot of people getting really worked up and excited. There were also a lot of other people that didn't understand what was happening. There were even some people that looked deathly afraid of the doll. I wonder what those people saw there. Female Student: She's not doing it at all. Yasuko: I-If you don't do it right... all of the men will rape you. Kimika: Hehehe... You're really good this at this, Yasuko-chan. Yasuko: You masturbate every day, right? Now, think about the most important person in your life and masturbate. Male Student: Ah, ahh... I might achieve victory for a second time... Ah, ahh, victory, here I cum... Male Student: Right now, my ejaculation leads me to victorrryyy! Male Student: Ah, I'm right behind you, I'm cumming to victory too! I'm cumming! Male Student: I'm gonna blow. They violated... My doll... My past self was defiled right before my eyes. The embodiment of a precious time in my life, when time stopped for one part of my soul... That is what they defiled. My very memories. My very self, from a time past. It was defiled at the hands of strangers. I was violated. My memory was desecrated. My past self was ripped and torn to shreds. Takuji: How's that? How does it feel? Hasaki: Y-You're awful... Awful... Why would you do this? You're terrible... Takuji: Hehehehe... Kagami's totally broken. Hasaki: Why? Why would you do that? She's my... my precious, precious... Takuji: Your precious sister is broken. She's utterly broken. Hasaki: Huh? Takuji: Ah? Huh? Hawha, whahahawha? Hasaki: N-Nii-san? His eyes suddenly rolled back, and then his face started convulsing. Hasaki: U-Um! Takuji: I-I'll break you. I'll totally break you... I'll break you, once and for all. Takuji: M-M-Making a fool... Making a fool of me... Takuji: Someone get a hammer! Someone get a ladder! Get the stakes! It's a crucifixion... I'll crucify you. I'll crucify you, crucify you, crucify you, crucify you, crucify you, crucify you, crucify you. Hasaki: Huh? Wh-Why? Why? Takuji: Shut up! I can't let her go after she challenged me like that! This time I'll really break this fucking rabbit! Hasaki: No, stop! Takuji: That concrete pillar... Crucify her on that pillar. High up. Much higher than here... Crucify her. Crucify that bitch. Crucify her, crucify her, crucify her. The boisterous atmosphere in the room disappeared as people ceased to talk, one by one. One by one, they realized... And soon, the entire ark was silent. There was no one with me. In that enormous underground space, I could only cry. It was all I could do. I just cried. "Tsukasa..." There was a person there, someone who called me... Tsukasa. But I didn't want to meet anyone who would call me that. "This is... This is Kagami, right?" Hasaki: No, that's... That's not her name. "How did this happen? Why?" Hasaki: What do you mean, why? You did it, of course. "This is awful... Who could do such a thing?" Hasaki: Nii-san... I looked at my brother. His face was Tomo Nii-san's. But that wasn't Tomo Nii-san's soul in there. That person was not the person I most wanted to see. "That's right..." "Kagami... Let's go home." Nii-san carried the doll in his arms. "Let's go... home." Hasaki: ... The two of us walked through the city streets at night. It was too late to catch a train. It would take us at least an hour to walk all the way home. The two of us just walked in silence. Then... "Back then, I carried you home on my back like this, didn't I?" "That time, you tried too hard, and sprained your ankle running." Hasaki: That's... "I came right away when I heard about it from Tsukasa." "And then, this is what you said." Hasaki: No... Hasaki: That was me... Hasaki: That story about the hill... Hasaki: That hill, where the two of us found the sunflowers. Hasaki: I told you that I would climb that hill and go find Dad's soul somewhere out there. Hasaki: I thought I could go out beyond that hill and find Dad's soul, so that he could come back to us. "How would you do that?" "Where were you going to go looking, anyway?" Hasaki: I don't know. Hasaki: It's just... there was a big hill with sunflowers, and we could never go past it. Hasaki: The road of sunflowers, where the sunflowers stretch their stalks out to heaven above. I thought that I could climb that hill and go beyond it, to the place where Dad's soul was laid to rest. "A big hill?" Hasaki: Yeah, the big hill in Dad's hometown. "Was it really that big?" Hasaki: Not now it isn't, but back then, when I was a child, it seemed so big. Hasaki: I thought it was the wall at the end of the world. Hasaki: I thought if I could just get to the top of that hill, it would be the limit of the world. Hasaki: But I was wrong. Hasaki: When I got to the top... Hasaki: There was more of the city, just like here. Hasaki: There was a hill after that, and another after that one too. Hasaki: The city continued on forever. Hasaki: That was when I realized the world has no end. "Wasn't that when you started crying?" Hasaki: Yeah. Hasaki: Because that's when I knew Dad's soul wasn't coming back, so I got sad. Hasaki: That's when I learned that there are things in this world which will never come back. Hasaki: And then you came, Tomo Nii-san. That's how it always was. Hasaki: You always came for me when I was crying. Hasaki: Because I'm always crying... Because I can't do anything... Hasaki: So I wanted to become stronger... I tried to be stronger. "I know you did. But maybe you tried too hard." Hasaki: I'm no good, huh? I couldn't do anything. "That's not true. I'm still amazed at how hard you tried." Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... He couldn't see me. Some other person's soul was in his body. He couldn't see me. But no one except Tomo Nii-san could say the things he was saying. Even if he couldn't see me anymore, this person was still my brother after all. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san. I quietly hugged his back. Then he stopped walking. "Kagami, we're home." He suddenly stopped in front of a house I didn't recognize. "Your parents are probably going to be really sad when they see what happened to you." "But you said you wanted to go home, right?" "Kagami..." Old Lady: Yes? "..." Old Lady: E-Excuse me? "..." "Please forgive me... I... I couldn't protect Kagami." "I let them do this to her!" "I'm so sorry!" Old Lady: Um... Old Lady: Who are you? "Huh?" Old Lady: Is something wrong with your doll? "Huh?" "What's happening?" Old Lady: Um... What are you talking about? "No, that's not it. This was Kagami just a second ago. Wakatsuki Kagami-san." Old Lady: Is that the doll's name? "No, that's not it. Kagami lives here, right? She's your daughter." Old Lady: Um, it's getting pretty late. If you don't mind, I'd really rather not keep talking like this. "But, Mrs. Wakatsuki!" Old Lady: Um... We're the Hasegawa family, not Wakatsuki. "Huh?" Old Lady: Um... If you don't leave, I'm going to have to call the police. "What's this? What's happening? I don't..." "Tsukasa!" Hasaki: Are you satisfied yet? Hasaki: Jeez! I don't even know who you are anymore! Give me back my Tomo Nii-san! "Eek!" "AAAAAAAHHHHH!"
The school bell rings even in the dead of night. The sound echoed in the darkness. I came back to Kita High without even thinking about it. The doll I held onto for so long was no longer with me. It was the first time in such a long time... that I had to stand alone, on my own two feet. With nothing to support me, all I had was... Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... I should've just died back then. All this happened because I didn't die all those years ago. It was Takuji Nii-san's hateful spirit that possessed Tomo Nii-san. It was a curse. It made perfect sense. It wasn't a mental illness. It was a curse. A curse that he cast on all of us who survived that day. Maybe Takuji Nii-san wasn't the only one cursing us. Maybe Yuki-san cursed us when she died as well. That's why all this happened. Nii-san stabbed himself in the chest. He destroyed the other half of my self. And now, he wanted to return so many more people back to the sky. The day when everyone must return to the sky. The day when he'll return their souls to the sky. And what Takuji Nii-san did to me that day... His actions, in killing Yuki-san... That's exactly what he was trying to do again. And this time, he wanted to take far more people with him. Hasaki: Nii-san... "Hello." Hasaki: Huh? I heard a voice from somewhere. "Over here." Hasaki: Huh? Wh-Where? "It's not a place. I'm trying to tune in." Hasaki: Tune in? "That's right. The Mamiya family has practiced Shinto since ancient times. You have the ability to match your mind to the frequency of another. And your mother's Sanami blood is nearly the same." "So just take your time and match your frequency to mine." Hasaki: Ah... "See? I'm right here." Hasaki: Who... are you? Ayana: I am Ayana. You are Mamiya Hasaki-san. Hasaki: Y-Yes... Who is this? I'd never met her before. Is she a student at this school? She was wearing the uniform, but... Hasaki: Who are you? Ayana: I told you, I am Ayana. Hasaki: Are you human? Ayana: What if I'm not? Hasaki: I don't know. Ayana: Hehe. Ayana: We're about to go see. Hasaki: See what? Ayana: The End Sky. Hasaki: End sky? Ayana: Yes. Hasaki: The sky in my mother's prophecies? Ayana: Yes. The sky that your mother fell madly in love with. Ayana: This world's critical point. Ayana: The point which allows the soul to repeat as many times as it wishes. Ayana: Until you find the exit, you will repeat it over and over. Hasaki: Repeat? I don't know what you mean, but I've never heard of that kind of sky before now. Ayana: Before now? Where is your 'now'? Hasaki: That's not what I'm talking about. Ayana: So then, will you look at what comes after this? Hasaki: After this? Ayana: Yes. After the End Sky. Hasaki: After the End Sky? Ayana: The point where the soul ceases to be reborn. Hasaki: What... is that? Ayana: The sky beyond that point. Can you see it, Hasaki-chan? Hasaki: I'm asking you, what is that? What is there beyond that sky?! Ayana: Hehehehe... The cyclical rebirth of the soul. The endless, winding corridor. The mental construct of time. Ayana: It is what lies beyond the armillary sphere. It is what lies behind the shadows cast on the cave wall. Ayana: I am the gate. Ayana: The key and the gate. Ayana: All-in-One and One-in-All of limitless being and self. Ayana: The outer manifestation of the Primal Chaos. Ayana: The lurker at the threshold. Hasaki: You are... Ayana: Otonashi Ayana. Ayana: Even if no one has given it shape, anyone can understand it. Everyone already knows it. Ayana: Even if such a scene has never appeared in this world, such a scene should not frighten you. Ayana: It's a very common world. Hasaki: A common world? Ayana: Yes, beyond the bounds of this world, there is another, very common world. Hasaki: What is that? Ayana: The Wonderful Everyday. Hasaki: The Wonderful Everyday? Ayana: Yes, sub specie aeternitatis. Hasaki: Will I look at... what lies beyond this sky? Hasaki: I... I walked forward. I took one step forward. Alone. Hasaki: There isn't anyone with me. Ayana: There isn't anyone here. Ayana: Because the sky isn't anywhere down here. I couldn't see her anymore. I could only hear her voice. Hasaki: This place isn't the sky... Ayana: There is only one road that leads to the last sky. Ayana: There is only one road that leads out of this ark. Ayana: That road is much longer than the hill which you, as a child, could never climb. It reaches to heaven itself. Hasaki: Who are you?! Ayana: I am Otonashi Ayana. Nothing more or less. Hasaki: Do you mean... that steel ladder? ... The ladder stretched endlessly upward. It was like a mirage, seen by a traveler wandering silently through the desert of eternity. Hasaki: ... Hasaki: The wind... I heard the wind in the distance. In the distance, far, far ahead of me. From far up the ladder, I heard the sound of the wind. The sound of the wind, which was so far off, gradually grew louder and louder. The sound of the wind. Hasaki: ... Takuji: It's time. Takuji: It looks like you want to stay in this time forever, Hasaki. Takuji: I will go ahead, even in this world of endless rebirth. Takuji: My soul will come to reside in another body. Nii-san's body floated up into the air. I silently flew after him. Oh... Now I understand. This must be how Yuki-san felt. There was no logic involved. The only thing that mattered was that someone I loved was about to plunge into the sky. I tried to grab onto him. I tried to―
A summer day. I walked along the side of the road. The rays of a summer sun pierced me. A blue sky stretched overhead. Great white clouds dotted the sky. The trees were full of green. I walked through just such a scene. Every time the wind blew, I smelled the wild grass. The babbling of a brook. The smell of earth under our feet. My father was born in this town. It was called Sawaimura. Though, to be honest, I couldn't tell you where it was located in Japan. Both the summers and winters, though, were colder than those in Tokyo. As a young boy, that was all I understood about this place. Tomosane: Um... Hasaki should be coming soon, right? I checked the time. People in this village don't seem to pay attention to the time like we do in the city, so I had to bring an alarm clock from home. It was already long past the time we promised to meet. The alarm I had set already rang a long time ago. It was probably pointless setting an alarm in the first place. Tomosane: They said they were coming at three o'clock in the afternoon. Jeez. Hasaki was coming to Sawaimura. To get away from that damn witch, especially now that our father was being hospitalized. Tomosane: I wish he would just divorce that stupid witch. "Hahaha... You shouldn't say that." Tomosane: What? Whoa! Tomosane: Huh? D-Dad? Hiroo: Tomosane-kun, how have you been? Tomosane: Which tree did you pop out from? Hiroo: Sorry, sorry. It takes a long time to walk from the bus station. Tomosane: Oh. So, where's Hasaki? Hiroo: Huh? Hasaki: Eek! Someone jumped in surprise and then hid behind Dad's leg. She was very small, but even she couldn't completely hide herself behind him. Tomosane: Jeez, are you hiding again? Hiroo: Ahaha. Come on, Hasaki-san. It's okay. Tomosane: C'mon, why are you hiding? Did you forget me already? It's only been three years. Hiroo: Don't say that. Hasaki was still little when you were in Tokyo. Tomosane: So she doesn't remember me? Hiroo: Well, maybe she doesn't. Hasaki: U-Um, are you my brother? Tomosane: Yeah, that's right! I'm Tomosane, your brother! Hasaki: Ah! Tomosane: Why are you hiding again?! Hiroo: Come on now, don't yell at her. She's scared of you. Tomosane: Takuji is the scary one, not me. Hiroo: W-Well, you might be right about that... Tomosane: Is Takuji the same as ever? Hiroo: I guess so. Tomosane: Are they still abusing Hasaki? Hiroo: No, there's no abuse, but... Tomosane: It is abuse. That stupid witch... You should just let Hasaki live here. Hiroo: Hahaha... You really don't like your mom, huh? Tomosane: Of course not! She betrayed us! I'll never forgive her! Hiroo: I'm sorry to hear that. You should be mad at me, not your mother. Tomosane: Why do you always say that?! Tomosane: Why don't you just give that stupid Takuji a good slap in the face?! Or that woman?! Hiroo: Violence isn't the answer here. Tomosane: But Takuji is using violence against Hasaki, isn't he? Hiroo: Well... I'm watching out for that. Tomosane: Jeez... You're scared of that woman, aren't you? Hiroo: Tomosane-kun, you really shouldn't call your mother 'that woman.' Tomosane: She's not my mother. I've told you before, she was the first one to betray us. Hiroo: Yeah, I understand your feelings, but... Tomosane: I'm stuck out here because you won't break up with that woman. Hiroo: Sorry... Tomosane: Jeez, why are you apologizing? Why don't you just break up with her? Tomosane: She has Takuji. Isn't that enough for her? Hiroo: That's not true. Your mother loves you and Hasaki too. Tomosane: That's impossible! Hiroo: ... Hiroo: Come on, don't yell. You're scaring Hasaki-san. Tomosane: Like I care! Hasaki: H-Hau... Tomosane: What does 'hau' even mean?! Hasaki: Ah, auh, auh... Tomosane: Make up your mind already! Hiroo: Stop it. You're scaring her. Tomosane: Hmph. Hiroo: I have to head back to the city tomorrow. Tomosane: Tomorrow? That soon? Hiroo: I'm going to be in the hospital for a while starting tomorrow. Tomosane: Tomorrow? I thought you still had more time. That's too soon. Hiroo: Don't worry, they just want to do some tests. I should be out in a few days. Tomosane: Of course you will. What would our family do without you? Hurry up and get better. Hiroo: Ahaha, I knew you would say that. Tomosane: Well, I'm glad I didn't disappoint you, then. Hasaki: Daddy, please come back soon. Hiroo: Yeah, don't worry about me. Hasaki: He's really scary, so if you don't... Tomosane: Wait, you mean me?! Hiroo: Sure sounds like it. Tomosane: I'm not scary! Hasaki: Hau! Tomosane: Don't just keep making that sound! Tomosane: Jeez, I can't believe this wimp is actually related to me. Hiroo: Hasaki is a girl. She's not tough like you boys are. Tomosane: But girls should be tough too! Hiroo: Why do you think that? She's a girl, you know. Tomosane: Yuki-nee is super strong, though. Hiroo: Yuki-nee? Who's that? Tomosane: Yuki-nee, the assistant here at the dojo. That violent woman. Hiroo: Here at the dojo? Minakami-san... Oh, you mean old Minakami-san's girl. She's always been a strong girl. Tomosane: Yeah, her. There aren't very many people at the dojo who can beat her. It's not like girls have to be weak. You're really behind the times, you know? I mean, look at your wife. She's stronger than you are. Hiroo: W-Well, that's true... Tomosane: So, Hasaki! Hasaki: Auh... Tomosane: Don't say 'auh'! Say 'Yes, sir'! Hasaki: Yessauh! Tomosane: Which one was that? Tomosane: You'll get stronger living here. Hasaki: S-Stronger? Tomosane: Yeah, a lot stronger. Hiroo: She doesn't need to get stronger. Tomosane: Yes, she does! Takuji's still bullying her, isn't he? Hiroo: B-But she shouldn't use violence... Tomosane: Jeez, that's why he keeps doing it. Tomosane: Did Takuji get any stronger, Hasaki? Hasaki: Huh? Tomosane: He was always a mouthy kid, so I used to fight him sometimes. Is he stronger than he used to be? Hiroo: Well, it's not like Hasaki is hitting back. It's just Takuji doing it. Tomosane: Yeah, and every time we fought, that dumb witch would hit me. Why is it any of her business what we do? Hiroo: I'm sure she was just stopping you guys from fighting. Tomosane: No, she wasn't. She always takes Takuji's side. That's why I had to hit her too. Hiroo: And that's why we had to send you out here, you know. Hiroo: Jeez... Domestic violence at your age... Tomosane: Like I said, that woman is not my mother. And I can't believe you forgave her for what she did. Hiroo: Tomosane-kun... Tomosane: But I can't hate you, so make sure you rest up and get better in the hospital. Hiroo: Hahaha, thanks. Tomosane: And Hasaki should stay here all year round, not just during the summer. Hasaki: Huh? Tomosane: Takuji and that woman aren't here, so it's a lot more peaceful. Hasaki: B-But I want to be with Daddy... Tomosane: Ahaha, that's just a matter of time. If you were here, I'm sure he would give up and come live with us. Hasaki: Huh? Would you, Daddy? Hiroo: Hey, don't I get a say in all this? Tomosane: Anyway, Hasaki... Hasaki: Y-Yes? Tomosane: Takuji is bullying you, isn't he? Hasaki: Y-Yeah... Hasaki: It's my fault Takuji Nii-san is still an inadequate savior. Tomosane: Dad.. * Don't let her think like that!"* Hiroo: I already told her that's not true. Tomosane: But Takuji and that woman are still saying that... Unbelievable. Hiroo: Yeah. I told her to stop, but she won't listen. Tomosane: She won't listen to anything you say, Dad. That's just how she is. Tomosane: Well, whatever * Hasaki!"* Hasaki: Wh-What? Tomosane: You're still getting bullied by Takuji, right? Hasaki: Y-Yeah... Tomosane: He pinches you and hits you and stuff, right? Hasaki: Yeah... Tomosane: Then you know exactly what it feels like when someone hurts you. Hasaki: I-I guess... Tomosane: Then you should understand the opposite, too. Hasaki: The opposite? Tomosane: Of course. If you only get hit, then you'll never understand the world. You can only understand it by getting hit and then hitting back. Hasaki: Hitting back? Hiroo: Tomosane-kun, don't teach her weird stuff like that. Tomosane: Boys hit and get hit by each other, but that just helps them understand each other. Hasaki: B-But I'm a girl... Tomosane: But it's the same for girls, Hasaki! Hiroo: Don't say that! She's a girl! Tomosane: You're being too naive, you stupid old man! Tomosane: I'll teach Hasaki how I beat Takuji every single time we fought. Hiroo: Jeez, what are you talking about? On a summer day... Hasaki and I were reunited after several years apart. Even though Hasaki didn't remember me when she saw me. It was like our first time meeting. Dad said that it was just because she was young, but honestly, I don't remember her being that young when we met before. It actually seemed like Hasaki's days in Tokyo had been erased. It was always hectic in the Mamiya house when I was in Tokyo before. All because my mother was involved with that bizarre cult. She believed that Takuji would become the savior. As a result, Hasaki was abused by Takuji and his mother. What an unusual household. My dad was the only one searching for a peaceful solution. But to a young child like me, his peaceful solutions just seemed irritating. Though I didn't manage to solve anything, either. I just lashed out. When Hasaki had bruises from the abuse, I would lash out at Takuji and his mother. I still don't regret that. But the violence escalated until one of us received a stab wound. For the record, it was my mother that was injured, but she was also the one holding the knife. When she pulled out the knife, I fought back and she ended up getting hurt. And thankfully, I was entrusted to my father's relatives in Sawaimura after that incident. Hiroo: You seem energetic today, Tomosane-kun. Tomosane: Yeah, I feel great. Hiroo: Good. He just said that and laughed as he patted my head. For some reason, his face looked really sad, but I didn't understand why. Even after growing so much over the years, I was still just a little brat. That's why I couldn't understand the meaning hidden behind my father's last smile. He was always pushing his mind and body to their limits. He experienced hardships in his life that a brat like me could never understand. All for the sake of his family. That was the last time... That I ever saw my father smile.
Hasaki came to the village yesterday. Apparently just for a summer, but that was plenty of time to tell her about all the fun things we can do here. This was the first time she'd been to the village. There were lots of things here that she could never see in Tokyo. After my morning training, I went straight to the kitchen to see if my breakfast was ready. They told me it would be done soon, so I went to get Hasaki out of bed. I cut through the dojo, where the others who had just finished their morning training were all resting. As I was passing through, I heard someone say that detestable name. Dojo Student: I heard that one of the Sanami children was living with the Mamiyas... Tomosane: ...Ah! Dojo Student: You mean Tomosane, right? What's the big deal? Dojo Student: No, not him... Tomosane is a Mamiya, not a Sanami. Dojo Student: Yeah, Tomosane is definitely Mamiya Ryuu's blood. You can tell from his eyes. Dojo Student: And he's way stronger than the other kids... He definitely has Mamiya blood in him. Dojo Student: Minakami seems to have taken a shine to him, too... Dojo Student: Of course, he's a strong kid. Dojo Student: Tomosane hates his mother, doesn't he? She's a Sanami. Dojo Student: Really? Dojo Student: I heard that's why he's living here in Sawaimura. Dojo Student: Oh wow... Dojo Student: Yeah. I heard there was an incident with a knife, actually. Dojo Student: Huh? Tomosane tried to stab her? Dojo Student: No way... It was his mother. She tried to use a knife on her own son, I heard. Dojo Student: Her own flesh and blood? Dojo Student: What else would you expect from a Sanami? Dojo Student: Well, I've seen that Sanami girl before. She's the kind of mentally unstable person that would actually do it, too. Dojo Student: So then who were you talking about? Who is the Sanami child? Dojo Student: Huh? Tomosane is the only Sanami around here. Dojo Student: Haven't you heard? That Sanami woman had a child with the founder of some new wave religion that's been all over the news lately. Dojo Student: Huh? Did she and Hiroo-san get divorced? Dojo Student: No, they didn't. Dojo Student: Isn't that weird? Then why is she having children with that other guy? Dojo Student: Come on, that's what I'm saying... Tomosane: ... "Hey, you over there! You haven't even finished the cleaning! Don't just sit there and chat!" Tomosane: Huh? I turned and saw Yuki-nee standing right behind me. Dojo Student: Whoa, Yuki-nee! Yuki: Come on! I'll tell Master that you were slacking if you don't get to work! Dojo Student: Wait, please don't! Yuki: Watch out, or Master might have to beat some sense into you. Dojo Student: Eek! Tomosane: Yuki-nee... Yuki: Huh? You look like you're having fun, Tomosane. Tomosane: Does it really look like I'm having fun? Maybe you're just blind as a bat? Yuki: Blind as a bat? Tomosane: Whoa, what're you doing? Suddenly, everything went black. It was like the world was plunged into darkness... Or rather, like it was covered with some kind of black fabric. Tomosane: Hey! What're you doing, Yuki-nee?! Yuki: Oh my, what are you doing under my skirt there, Tomosane-kun? Tomosane: Y-Your skirt? What? Yuki: Yep! How does it feel? Does it feel nice in there? Tomosane: Y-You dummy! You're such a dummy! Yuki: Oh, don't move around too much. Oh? Oh? Oh? Tomosane: L-Let me out! Don't you have any shame?! Yuki: Ahaha, don't move around like that. Whoa, I'm serious Tomosane, uhahahahahaha, ahn! Tomosane: Wah, wah, let me out! Yuki: Uhahahahahaahhnn, auh, ahh... Tomosane: Haa, haa, haa... Wh-What's wrong with you? Yuki: You look excited, Tomosane. Tomosane: That wasn't exciting at all! I was scared! Don't just stuff someone under your skirt, okay?! Yuki: Aww, what's the matter, Tomosane? Did you get all hot and bothered while you were in there? Tomosane: Yeah, right! Why don't you learn to have a little shame? Yuki: Why would I be embarrassed? You're just a little kid. Tomosane: I-I'm not a little kid! Yuki: Yes, you are. Tomosane: Wh-What? Why are you looking at me like that? Yuki: Oh, noooothing. You're just so childish. Tomosane: What?! I told you, I'm not a little kid! Yuki: Oh, is that so? Then why don't you show me? Can you prove you're not a little kid? Tomosane: Wha― Hey, hey! Stop it! Yuki: What, can't you show me? Which part of you isn't a little kid? Tomosane: What are you doing? What are you pulling my pants down for? Yuki: Hahaha, never mind. I guess a kid wouldn't get that joke. Tomosane: That's not what I'm talking about! Yuki: Oh? I finally got away from Yuki-nee and took up my fighting stance. Tomosane: You keep calling me a kid and making fun of me, damn it! Why don't you fight me right here, right now, Yuki-nee?! Yuki: You want me to fight you? Tomosane: That's right! Yuki: Hmm... Fight you, huh? You mean like this? Tomosane: Ah! She disappeared from my sight for a split second. I tried to prepare myself for a tackle, but... Tomosane: Uh, whoa, whoa! Wait, stop * Don't pull my pants down!"* Yuki: Hahaha, do you think a true martial artist solves all his problems by beating people up? Tomosane: Do you just fight by pulling people's pants down?! Yuki: Sometimes! Tomosane: That's dumb! You're just making fun of me! Yuki: Oh? Tomosane: You're underestimating me, you stupid, violent woman! Yuki: Violent? You're the one being violent, Tomosane. Tomosane: Shut up! Yuki: Oh? Jeez, kids are always like that. They just get mad if you beat them in an argument. Yuki: Oh, Tomosane, you're so scaaaary. I think you've gotten better. You're so fast. Woe is me * Oh?"* Yuki: Oh, you actually are pretty fast, Tomosane. Tomosane: How about that?! I've been practicing that one for months! Yuki: I'm surprised you even know what the word practice means! Oh! Whoa! Tomosane: Take that! And that! And that! Yuki: As if that'll work on me. Tomosane: Whoa?! Yuki-nee quickly twisted my arm and yanked it upward. It was so simple for her. Yuki: You've gotten faster, but this isn't boxing. You can't just throw hooks, you know? Tomosane: Guh, agh. Yuki: A straight punch is a good fundamental. A straight line traces the shortest distance from you to your opponent, after all. But it's too monotonous if you just throw punches. Yuki-nee laughed and then let me out of her grip. Yuki: Well, you're pretty strong for a kid, anyway. Tomosane: Don't call me a kid! Yuki: What are you talking about? If you're not a kid, then what am I? Tomosane: An old hag... Yuki: Oh, really? Does that mean you're into grannies? Tomosane: Why would I be? Yuki: Because you're in love with me, right? Tomosane: N-No way! Yuki: Ahahaha, what are you blushing for? Tomosane: A-Are you teasing me again? Yuki: I'm not teasing you. You fell in love with me a long time ago. Tomosane: That's ridiculous! Yuki: Is it really? Tomosane: You're my enemy! Why would I love my enemy?! Yuki: You can't fall in love with an enemy? Tomosane: Of course not! Yuki: You won't ever get stronger with that mindset. Do you know what the strongest technique in martial arts is? Tomosane: The strongest technique? Yuki: It's becoming good friends with someone who tried to kill you. Tomosane: Th-That's a dumb answer. There's no way that's true! Yuki: Hehehe... You're so naive. One of the greatest martial artists of our time said those words. Tomosane: Wh-Who? Yuki: The greatest martial artist of our time... Minakami Yuki. Tomosane: But Master is stronger than you, Yuki-nee. Yuki: Yeah, but who cares about that? Yuki: I want to be friends with that girl behind you. Tomosane: There's a girl behind me? I turned around and saw... Tomosane: Hasaki? How long have you been there? Hasaki: U-Um... Yuki: Let's be friends. Hasaki: D-Does that mean... you're my enemy too? Yuki: Huh? Why? Tomosane: You just said that the greatest technique in martial arts is becoming friends with your enemies. Yuki: Oh, that's not what I meant, not at all. The enemy is this guy over here. Then Yuki pointed at me. What a jerk. Hasaki: So Nii-san really is my enemy? Yuki: That's right. Let's defeat him together. Tomosane: Now you're just contradicting yourself. You were just saying you wanted to become friends with your enemies and you were against violence. Yuki: Ahahaha, that's right. The true meaning of martial arts lies in justice and friendship. She's just making stuff up... What kind of philosophy is that, anyway? Yuki: Who cares about that, though? Hasaki-chan, you're Tomosane's little sister, right? Hasaki: Um... how do you know Hasaki's name? Yuki: Well, you just said it yourself. Hasaki: Huh? Did I? Tomosane: Hey, don't ask me. I don't know what to tell you Yuki: Your sister is so cute, Tomosane. She's wasted on a brat like you. Tomosane: Shut up... Yuki: Nice to meet you, Hasaki-chan. I'm Minakami Yuki. One of the instructors at this dojo is my dad. Hasaki: Yuki-san? Yuki: Yeah, but you can call me Yuki-nee if you want. Hasaki: Yuki-san. Yuki: Ahaha... I guess that was a bit much, asking you to call me Yuki-nee all of a sudden. Yuki: Are you from Tokyo? Hasaki: Y-Yes, from Tokyo... Yuki: I see, I see. It's summer break for you, huh? Yeah, this is a pretty nice place. Yuki: The air is a lot cleaner here, too. Tomosane: This is a great place, and yet that's the only reason you can come up with? Yuki: What else do you want me to say about the village? Tomosane: Like I care! Yuki: The stars are really pretty, too. Tomosane: That's basically the same thing you just said, since the air is clear. Yuki: And because there aren't so many lights out here! Tomosane: Of course not. We're pretty far out in the country. Yuki: What's your problem?! What about you?! Do you have anything good to say about the village?! Tomosane: Uh, not off the top of my head... Yuki: Well, regardless... This is a pretty nice place to live. Hasaki: Okay... Yuki: Oh, right. It's about time for breakfast. Tomosane: Oh, I forgot... Yuki: What are you doing after breakfast? Tomosane: I don't really have anything planned. Yuki: Let's go to the beach! Tomosane: Wh-Why? Yuki: There aren't any beaches in Tokyo, right? Tomosane: It's not like there aren't any, but you can't really swim in the ocean there. Yuki: The beaches in Sawaimura are great. Everyone says they're as good as the beaches in the Caribbean. Hasaki: Wow... Really? Yuki: Yeah, that's what everyone says. Tomosane: No, they don't. Yuki: Jeez, Tomosane, you're so contrary all of a sudden. What's wrong with Sawaimura's beaches anyway? Tomosane: It's not like anyone in this village has ever been to the Caribbean. Yuki: You wouldn't know. Maybe I took a vacation in the Caribbean once. Tomosane: Have you? Yuki: Nope, but still. Tomosane: So you haven't. Yuki: But I've been to Sawaimura's beach! Tomosane: Well, of course you have. You were born and raised here, after all. Yuki: Oh, forget it. Come on, Tomosane! Let's go! Tomosane: Me? Yuki: Yeah, you and Hasaki-chan! Hasaki: U-Um, I don't have... a swimsuit... Tomosane: You didn't bring a swimsuit? Hasaki: No... I didn't know there was a beach here. Tomosane: You didn't? Come on, Dad, you should have at least told her that. * There's nothing to do here except go hiking in the mountains or go to the beach.* Tomosane: Now that you mention it, you really didn't bring much with you, Hasaki. Hasaki: Yeah... They decided to send me here all of a sudden. Tomosane: All of a sudden? Hasaki: Yeah, we were super rushed. I see... They only told me she was coming the day before she showed up. I thought they just didn't tell me about it, but apparently it was decided at the last minute. Hasaki: Dad said something urgent came up... Something urgent? He must have been talking about the hospital. I thought he was just going in to get checked up. Why would they be doing that at the last minute? Yuki: ... Yuki: Oh. Then we should change our plans. Let's go to the city and buy Hasaki-chan a swimsuit. Tomosane: What? Why are you making plans for us? Yuki: Hasaki-chan, do you want to? Hasaki: I-I want a swimsuit, but... Yuki: Ahahaha, don't worry about the money. Nee-san can pay for it. Hasaki: Huh? R-Really? Yuki: Yeah, leave it to me! Hasaki: B-But... Yuki: You shouldn't let strangers buy you things? Hasaki: No, uh... I know you're someone my dad trusts. Hasaki: He told me that there was a lady called Yuki-san here, and I should listen to what she says. Yuki: Then there's no problem. Hasaki: Oh, b-but if Tomo Nii-san doesn't want to go... Yuki: Oh, so you're the problem here! Tomosane: Wh-Why me? I never said I didn't want to go. Hasaki: U-Um, it just seemed like you didn't want to... Yuki: Tomosane, do you want to go or not?! Tomosane: Why wouldn't I? Hasaki: Th-Then we can go? Tomosane: Haa... Why do you need my permission, anyway? Hasaki: Dad told me to listen to what you said. Tomosane: D-Dad said that? Why would he say that? Hasaki shouldn't be listening to someone like me. Wasn't Dad always scolding me for what I do and say? Why would he tell her to listen to me? Yuki: Ahaha, I knew Hiroo-san would say that. Tomosane: Wh-What do you mean? Yuki: Ahaha, you don't understand? Tomosane: Wh-What are you even talking about? Yuki: For a kid like you, that's the most effective thing he could've said. Tomosane: Effective? Yuki: You're that kind of kid. He knew you'd get your act together if he told Hasaki to listen to you. Tomosane: Ugh... I-Is that true? Yuki: Well, you really are Hasaki's guardian here, so make sure you don't goof up. Yuki: You can't be talking like some little brat for the rest of your life, either! Yuki: Okay, see you later. I'll come find you after we eat! Hasaki: Yuki... san. Tomosane: Yeah, that's Yuki-nee. She's really mean, so watch out for her. Hasaki: She's a good person. Tomosane: Hey, you should listen to what I tell you! Hasaki: Eek! A-Are you a scary person, Tomo Nii-san? Tomosane: Wh-Why would you say that? I didn't really have any reason to say no to Yuki. So after we ate, we ended up going with Yuki-nee to buy Hasaki a swimsuit. There weren't any stores selling swimsuits in Sawaimura. The village was so far out in the boonies that we didn't even have a convenience store. It took us an hour on the bus just to get to the next town. We all rode into the city. After crossing three mountains, we arrived in a big city with a huge shopping center called Jasco. Though only someone from Sawaimura would think it was a big city. Someone from Tokyo would feel like they were way out in the sticks. But for us, the city was enormous. It was quite the trip to get there, though. Yuki: Now then, what should we get? Hasaki: Ummm, umm... Well... Yuki: Oh, I'm not trying to rush you. Take your time and pick one out. We have plenty of time. Hasaki: O-Okay... Yuki: Here. Hasaki-chan, what about this? Hasaki: Oh, um... Tomosane: ... Yuki: Whoa, look at this. Would it be hot if I wore a tight little swimsuit like this? Tomosane: ... Yuki: Hey, look at this, Tomosane. Do you think Hasaki-chan would look cute in this? Tomosane: ... Yuki: Come on, Tomosane! Say something! Tomosane: Why would I have anything to say? They just sell girls' swimsuits here! Yuki: Wow! You're still just a kid, huh? Can't you act more mature for once, Tomosane? Tomosane: Maturity has nothing to do with it... Yuki: It has everything to do with it. A mature person wouldn't act like you are. Tomosane: Okay, then how would an adult respond? Yuki: Well, let's see... 'Th-This would look great on you, Hasaki-chan... But maybe this one would be cuter? Haa, haa, haa, Onii-san wants to see Hasaki-chan in her school swimsuit, too.' Something like that? Tomosane: That's dumb. Yuki: What's so dumb about it? Tomosane: That's not mature at all. I don't really know what it is, though. Yuki: It is mature! But an adult shouldn't say those words! Remember that! Tomosane: Then it's not mature at all, is it? Hasaki: I-I don't want a school swimsuit... Yuki: Oh, you don't have to buy a school swimsuit. Tomosane just said that because he's a pervert. Tomosane: Why is it my fault now?! Hasaki: Huh? Do you want me to wear that instead, Tomo Nii-san? Tomosane: Of course not! I didn't even say that. That was Yuki. Yuki: Then you should pick something for Hasaki-chan. Tomosane: Me? Yuki: Or would you rather choose mine? Look, this one hardly covers anything at all! Yuki: Come on, what do you think? Even if I wore this, it wouldn't cover anything but the nipples. Feels like I'd fall right out of it. Tomosane: D-D-Don't ask me! Wh-Why are you making me pick out your swimsuit anyway?! Yuki: What are you blushing for? What, did you just imagine me wearing it? Tomosane: N-No way! Hasaki: Uuh... Tomosane: Ow! Ow! Why are you pinching me, Hasaki?! Hasaki: You won't pick one out for me, but you want to pick Yuki-san's, don't you? Tomosane: Th-That's not true. Yuki-nee can get whatever she wants! Hasaki: But you looked really happy just now. Tomosane: N-No, I didn't. C-Come on, let's look over here. These ones might fit you better. Tomosane: Now then, I wonder which ones would look good on you, Hasaki. Wait... Why am I making excuses and trying to change the subject now? Damn it. It's Yuki-nee's fault for saying all those weird things. I reluctantly went over to the swimsuits and started looking for one that would look good on Hasaki. Although I really had no idea what would look good on her. They told me to pick one out, but I had no idea what I was looking for. Tomosane: Um... you like rabbits, right? Hasaki: Huh? Tomosane: What? Am I wrong? Hasaki: No, no, I-I like rabbits. Tomosane: Then why did you look so surprised? I thought I was remembering wrong. Hasaki: B-But... why would someone I never met before know what I like? Tomosane: I told you already, we lived together until three years ago, even if you don't remember it! Hasaki: Hau... Tomosane: Don't do that! I'm not scaring you! Yuki: You're yelling at her, so of course she's scared. Still, I'm impressed. Tomosane: Impressed? What for? Yuki: I was just thinking, even a brat like you can kind of understand a girl's heart, you know? Tomosane: A girl's heart? Yuki: Look... Tomosane: Look where? Tomosane: Whoa, she's crying. Yuki: You made her cry. Tomosane: B-Because I was yelling? S-Sorry. Please don't cry here, Hasaki. Hasaki: T-Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: Ah, Yuki-nee! Help! Yuki: Huh? This is your time to shine. Tomosane: What? For some reason, Hasaki just cried and clung to my shirt. Why? Hasaki: Thanks, Tomo Nii-san! I can't believe you still remembered me! Tomosane: Huh? U-Um... Yuki: Hey, you player. Nice going. Most guys forget stuff like birthdays and anniversaries overnight. Tomosane: I-It's nothing. Anyone would remember what their little sister liked! Tomosane: Oh, uh... Everyone was looking at us. D-Do they think I made her cry? N-No... Yuki: Hahaha... That's why you're still just a kid. Yuki-nee laughed when she saw how flustered I was. I was too shocked to even think about laughing. Jeez, Yuki-nee... ......... ...... ... Yuki: So? Tomosane: How about this one? It has rabbits on it. Yuki: But these rabbits look like they're eating people. Tomosane: That's why it's cool. Yuki: Cool? Tomosane: Yeah, they have to be strong rabbits if they're eating people, right? Yuki: O-Oh... I see... Yuki: I didn't think you could be so blunt. Hasaki: What about this... Is this all right? Yuki: W-Well, I guess? This kind of stuff is popular right now. Stuff that's gruesome on the surface, but sort of cute underneath. Yuki: Though I think you should get a cuter one, Hasaki-chan. Man-eating rabbits don't really fit your image. Hasaki: No, I want this one. I want this one! Yuki: R-Really? Hasaki: Yeah, it's so cute. Yuki: Ahaha... Okay... Yuki: This is actually branded merchandise, so it's surprisingly expensive. Tomosane: Did you say something? Yuki: No, it's nothing, it's nothing. Ahaha. Let's buy this. Yeah, it's gotta be this. Yuki: Jasco was really fun, huh? They have everything. Hasaki: Yeah, there's nothing like that in Tokyo. I'm sure there are places like that in Tokyo, but they're probably out on the fringes of the city. Where we lived, there weren't any shopping centers like that. That's just what the city is like. Yuki: Ahaha, we need to hurry or we'll miss the bus. Tomosane: Oh, Sawaimura is way out in the country, isn't it? There won't be any buses going that way after dark. Yuki: And we have to cross three mountains, too. Hasaki: Th-Three of them? Tomosane: Yeah. Unfortunately, we're on the wrong side of three whole mountains. It'd take us more than a day to walk that far. Hasaki: Th-Then we should hurry. Yuki: Yeah, let's go. Hasaki: Okay... We were about to run, but then Hasaki suddenly stopped. Tomosane: Hm? Hasaki was looking at something. There was a big rabbit doll sitting in the window of a small store selling stuffed animals. Hasaki: ... Tomosane: Hasaki? She must really love rabbits. She probably didn't remember it, but something like this happened before when we were in Tokyo. She stopped and stared at a huge rabbit doll. Tomosane: What's wrong, Hasaki? Hasaki: Oh, n-nothing... Tomosane: Nothing, huh? Hasaki has always been like that. She never asks for anything she wants. She's always endured it instead of asking for things, even when she was just a toddler. Tomosane: Why do you like rabbits, Hasaki? Hasaki: Huh? Um, well, it's more like... Hasaki: Rabbits die if they get lonely, so I want to be with them so they won't get lonely. Tomosane: Why do you have to keep them company, though? Hasaki: Um... I'm not really good for anything, so that's at least one thing I can do. That's what I always thought, since I was real little. Tomosane: ... Yuki: Hey! The bus is here! Tomosane: Oh, Hasaki, we have to go home. Pretty soon we're gonna get stuck walking home. Hasaki: Oh, yeah... Hasaki and the rabbit. An animal which dies when it gets too lonely. And a girl who was always alone. That's why the two of them became twins. So that they could always be together. Only now do I really understand what she meant.
Yuki: All right, we're ready to go! Hasaki: Ready! Yuki: What about you, Tomosane? Tomosane: Yeah, sure... Yuki: You duummyy. Tomosane: Ow, ow! What are you hitting me for?! Yuki: You're spacing out! Are you underestimating the ocean or what?! Tomosane: Why do you think I'm spacing out? Come on, we haven't even left yet. Yuki: We have to be prepared, just like the knights of old! Unguard! Yuki: Do you understand?! Tomosane: Not at all... Yuki: You dummy! Tomosane: Don't hit me every time I say something! Yuki: What? You were just telling me to stop taking it easy on you before. Make up your mind already. Yuki: Everyone knows that you have to be unguard at all times to protect yourself! That's one of the fundamentals, so remember it well! Tomosane: I have no idea what you're talking about, but I'm pretty sure that's supposed to be en garde, not unguard. Yuki: Anyway, if you underestimate the ocean, you'll be in trouble. Big trouble! Tomosane: I think you're the one who'll be in trouble. Yuki: What do you think, Hasaki-chan? Shouldn't he respect the ocean a bit more? Hasaki: I-If you're not careful, you can get in a lot of trouble, I think. Yuki: Look! You're the one who's going to be in trouble, Tomosane. Tomosane: No, I'm not underestimating it or anything. Yuki: Then let's do this one more time! Everyone ready? Hasaki: Ready! Yuki: What about Tomosane? Tomosane: Yeah, I'm ready. Yuki: All right! Let's go! Tomosane: Why do you have so much luggage, anyway? Yuki: Because the ocean is scary! Tomosane: Oh, okay. I knew it wasn't worth the effort to argue with her. Yuki-nee attached the luggage carrier to her bicycle and started pedaling. Good luck getting that carrier home. Yuki: Wow, the beaches here in Sawaimura are great. It's like we have our own private beach. Tomosane: That's probably only because no one would want to come to a beach out in the country. Yuki: Well, it's a pretty far drive for most people. Tomosane: More importantly... Yuki-nee, where are we going to change? Yuki: Hehehe, look at this! Tomosane: Hey, you dummy, we're still in public! Yuki: Were you surprised? Tomosane: Huh? Yuki: I have my swimsuit on underneath. Tomosane: Oh... You shouldn't just lift your skirt up like that, though. Yuki: Why not? I have a swimsuit on, so it's fine. Tomosane: What about Hasaki? Hasaki: I need to change. Yuki: Here, I brought a poncho. Tomosane: A poncho? What's that? Yuki: They wear these in South America. It's a big piece of fabric with a hole for your head. They sell them for people to use when they're changing. Tomosane: I see... Yuki: You'll probably just go behind a rock and change or something, right Tomosane? Tomosane: No way. Yuki: Tadaa * How's it look?"* Tomosane: Don't ask me. Yuki: Jeez, you're so boring. This is my new swimsuit, you know. Tomosane: What did you expect me to say? Yuki: Oh, Hasaki-chan, did you finish getting changed? Hasaki: Uh, yeah... Hasaki: H-How is it? Tomosane: Don't ask me... Hasaki: D-Does it look bad? Yuki: You dumbass! Tomosane: Wh-What's your problem?! Yuki: Are you really her big brother? Or has it been that long since a girl asked you to compliment her? Tomosane: Y-Yeah... Yuki: Can't you say something better than that, Tomosane? Tomosane: I told you, you're expecting way too much. Yuki: Hasaki-chan is younger than you, dummy. Don't make excuses now. It's your responsibility. Tomosane: R-Really? Yuki: You're her big brother, and you picked out that swimsuit for her, too. Yuki: I put down some real dosh for that swimsuit you picked out! Now what's she talking about? It's not like I made her buy it. She must be mad since it was so expensive. Yuki: Did you say something? Tomosane: I-I didn't say anything! Yuki: It's written all over your face. She's way too perceptive. Hasaki: Um, Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: Now you're just being annoying, Hasaki. Hasaki: A-Auh... Tomosane: I picked out that swimsuit because I thought it looked good on you! You don't have to ask me every time you wear it! Hasaki: U-Um... Tomosane: I-It looks good on you... Don't worry! Hasaki: R-Really? Tomosane: Yeah, really. Don't make me say it again. Hasaki: Okay. Thanks, Tomo Nii-san! Yuki: What about me? Tomosane: Like I care. Yuki: Whoa, that's cold! Yuki: Oh well. Good for you, Hasaki-chan. Hasaki: Yeah, thank you too, Yuki-san. Yuki: That's right. You better be thankful. That swimsuit was pretty dang expensive. Hasaki: A-Auh... Thank you... Yuki-nee, that's really petty. You're not supposed to talk about money with little kids. Yuki: All right then, come on! We're at the beach! Tomosane: Thanks for stating the obvious. We've been at the beach for a while now. Yuki: Duuummyy! Tomosane: What'd you hit me for that time?! Yuki: You'll die if you keep saying stupid crap like that, Tomosane! Tomosane: Huh? Why would I die? Yuki: Hasaki-chan would be really sad if Tomosane died, huh? Hasaki: Huh? Tomo Nii-san is gonna die? Huh? Yuki: Look, I told you! Now she's crying! Tomosane: You're the one who made her cry, though. Yuki: You dummy! Tomosane: Don't hit me! Yuki: Then dodge it. I've been testing you this whole time, you know? You always say you want to fight me, so I was just testing whether you were up to it. Tomosane: ... Yuki: Now then, let's do some warm-up exercises before we go swimming. Gotta limber up! Hasaki: Limber up? Yuki: Yeah, yeah, we're gonna stretch. Here, I'll show you how. It's kind of like a dance. Tomosane: You're gonna dance? Yuki: First, put your hand like this! Tomosane: My hand? Like this? Yuki: Yeah, then put your palms facing down, about level with your chin. Then swing your hands over to the right. Tomosane: S-Sure... Hasaki: I did it! Yuki: All right, let's go. Yuki: Stretch * Stretch!* * Reach out to the sky!"* Yuki: To the end of the sky! Tomosane: What is this crap? Yuki: Shut up and do it! Yuki: All right * Stretch!* * Stretch!* * Reach out to the sky!* * To the end of the sky!"* Hasaki: Stretch * Stretch!* * Reach out to the sky!* * To the end of the sky!"* Tomosane: S-Stretch, stretch, reach out to the end of the sky. Yuki: Then shake your hips back and forth! Yuki: To the right? Yuki: To the left? Yuki: To live? Yuki: Or to die? Yuki: Will tomorrow come? Yuki: Look to the sky! Yuki: Here we go again! Yuki: All right * All right!"* Yuki: Stretch * Stretch!* * Reach out to the sky!"* Tomosane: What's the point of this? * Do some normal stretches already!"* Yuki: Oh, come on. I'm sure our older fans could appreciate that one. Tomosane: Not like you have any fans. Hasaki: Stretch * Stretch!* * Reach out to the sky!* * To the end of the sky!"* Tomosane: You should just forget that, Hasaki. It's just some weird dance. Yuki: But it's so fun. Only our older fans will get it, though. Tomosane: What are you even talking about? I don't get it. Yuki: All right, let's swim! Tomosane: What do you have that board for? Yuki: Oh? You don't know what a surfboard is? Tomosane: No, that's not what I was asking. Why did you bring something like that? Yuki: Yuki-nee is now departing for the deep blue sea. I'll leave Hasaki-chan in your hands. Tomosane: Aren't you supposed to be the adult here?! Yuki: Right now I am, but I'm going out to sea, so you're in charge until I get back! Tomosane: Jeez, you just got done telling me about how the sea is a scary place, and now you're leaving two children alone? Yuki: Ahahaha, so now you want me to treat you like a child * I thought you said you were an adult?"* Tomosane: Wha―! Yuki: Sometimes there are freak waves, so watch out. You might think it's just a little wave, and then a huge one comes out of nowhere. Tomosane: A-All right, but... Yuki: What's wrong, Tomosane? You can look after Hasaki-chan, right? You're an adult, after all. Tomosane: Jeez, this is the only time you call me an adult. Yuki: Anyway, you should talk to her. I'm pretty sure she wishes she could talk to you more. Tomosane: Yuki-nee... Yuki: Be ambitious, my boy. I'll see you later. Say hi to the ambassadors for me! Especially that Magma guy, and Ambassador Shoutoku too. Tomosane: Yuki-nee... ... C'mon, Yuki-nee... Prince Shoutoku wasn't even an ambassador. She messed that joke up so bad, I don't even know where to start. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san. Tomosane: ... Tomosane: What do you want to do, Hasaki? We're here at the beach, so let's play. I don't mind playing with you today. Hasaki: Yeah, um, well, there's lots and lots of things we can do! Tomosane: Yeah, whatever you want. Hasaki: A-Auh... N-No, Tomo Nii-san, not there... Tomosane: It'll be okay. Look, I almost got it in there. Hasaki: A-Ah... If you touch it like that, you'll break it... Tomosane: Whoa. It's so wet. Hasaki: Waaaah... B-But you were rushing me... Tomosane: All right. I just need to get a little further in. Hasaki: N-No, Tomo Nii-san, ah, auhh! Tomosane: Hmm... It just won't go in. Hasaki: N-No, wait... If you push it in like that, it'll break... Tomosane: Don't worry. Leave it to your big brother. Hasaki: Auh... Hasaki: A-Aaaahh! Tomosane: Ah... Hasaki: Look, you broke it... Tomosane: H-Huh? It fell apart. Hasaki: It's cuz you were digging too fast. You have to slow down when you're making the tunnels. Tomosane: But it'll get destroyed if we don't hurry up and finish before the tides comes in. Hasaki: Yeah, it was dry here before, but now the sand is getting wet. If you dig down a little bit, there's water. Tomosane: Well, I should've picked a better spot I guess. I didn't think the tide was going to come in this far. Hasaki: Let's make another one over there. Tomosane: Yeah, we just need to find a better spot. Tomosane: Let's make a real big one this time. Hasaki: Yeah. The first thing she wanted to do when she came to the beach wasn't to swim. She just wanted to play in the sand. It was no different than playing in the sandbox in the park. I remember I played in a sandbox with Hasaki once before, when we were in Tokyo. We were both a lot younger back then. Tomosane: Hey, Hasaki, I know I haven't seen you in a long time, but have you been okay while I was gone? Hasaki: Y-Yeah... I guess... I heard the hesitation in her voice. Tomosane: Is that woman still alive? Hasaki: You shouldn't call her 'that woman.' She's our mom, you know? Tomosane: Yeah, I know. That's right. To me, that woman is just a traitor. But to Hasaki, she's still Mom. Even though that woman is disturbed. Tomosane: How's Takuji doing? Hasaki: ... Tomosane: Oh, uh... You don't have to talk about it if you don't want to. Hasaki: Takuji Nii-san is always studying. He does a lot of sports too. Tomosane: Oh, really... Same as ever, huh? Hasaki: He said he's had to work himself to death ever since I was born. Tomosane: I told you, that's wrong! Hasaki: Ah! Tomosane: Oh, sorry. I didn't mean to yell at you. Sorry. Hasaki: Thanks. Hasaki: I think I kind of forgot what you were like, Tomo Nii-san. But now I think I remember you. Tomosane: Ahaha, you remembered I was a mean guy back then too? Hasaki: No, I don't remember that at all. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san, you were the only person who was on my side. Tomosane: Huh? R-Really? Hasaki: Yeah! Tomosane: B-But Dad is there too. Hasaki: Dad isn't just on my side. He does try to be nice to me, though. Tomosane: W-Well, yeah. But you know, I might not always be on your side, either. Hasaki: Really? Tomosane: Yeah, of course. I just try to be true to myself. Hasaki: What does that mean? Tomosane: Well, if something bothers me, then I'll say that. It doesn't matter if it's my parents or what, I won't just accept the way things are. I'll fight back if I have to... That's all. Hasaki: R-Really? Tomosane: That's why I said I might not always be on your side. I'm just a selfish brother. Hasaki: A selfish brother... Tomosane: That's right. I hate the cult that brainwashed that stupid woman. The world's going to end? That's just ridiculous. Hasaki: They said 2012, right? Tomosane: That's right. They were talking about how the world was going to be destroyed a few years back, too. Hasaki: When? Tomosane: Oh, right. That was around the time you were born, I think. Hasaki: Oh, really... I didn't know that. Tomosane: Yeah, it was a long time ago. Nothing actually happened, though. Hasaki: Oh... Tomosane: They've been predicting the end of the world since the time of the cavemen, but it still hasn't happened, not even once. Tomosane: That's why the prophecy is just a lie. They say it's your fault Takuji couldn't be the savior, but that's just a load of crap. Hasaki: Yeah... Tomosane: What, don't you believe me? Hasaki: Ah, that's not what I meant. I believe you. You're right. Tomosane: But it doesn't really sound like you believe me. Hasaki: Oh, uh... Huh? I wonder why... Why would she have to wonder? She either does or she doesn't. Though Hasaki has been told those lies ever since she was born. I guess I see why she would have trouble accepting it's a lie after all these years. Either way, Hasaki thinks that she made her Mom, Dad, and brother unhappy because she was born. Tomosane: Think of it this way, Hasaki. Hasaki: Hm? Tomosane: If he's the savior, then I'm your hero! Hasaki: Hero? Tomosane: That's right. He might save the world. Well, I'm pretty sure he won't. Hasaki: Ahaha. Tomosane: But if he's going to save the world, then I've gotta be the hero who protects you. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san? You're my hero? Tomosane: Yeah, I'm a superhero in disguise. Hasaki: You can transform? Tomosane: Yeah, I totally can. I can turn into Gangaru, Atranger, and even Cyroid. Hasaki: What about Pretty Cure? Tomosane: No way. Hasaki: Oh, okay... Tomosane: Wait, uh, i-if you really want, I could probably transform into that. Hasaki: What about Sailor Moon? Tomosane: Oh, uh... Y-Yeah, I could do that. I'm your big brother, you know, so maybe just for you... I'll think about it... Hasaki: Really? Tomosane: Yeah, really. Tomosane: Remember this... If Takuji is the savior, then I'm the hero. Tomosane: I'll stand up to protect you any time you're in trouble. Tomosane: When you're in trouble, you can just think of it as a performance. Hasaki: A performance? Tomosane: Yeah, of course. A performance. A hero is someone who turns a bad situation into an opportunity. Hasaki: Someone who turns a bad situation into an opportunity? A hero? Tomosane: Yeah, I'm your hero. No matter what happens to the world, I'll protect you! V for Victory! Hasaki: T-Tomo Nii-san... You're so cool. Tomosane: Yeah, your big brother is really cool. Hasaki: Okay. I believe in you, Tomo Nii-san. You'll come back to save me, no matter what kind of trouble I'm in. Tomosane: Yeah, the only problem is with the performance. Tomosane: But the ending will be more exciting that way, right? Hasaki: Yeah, of course! Tomosane: So even if bad things happen, you'll be okay. We'll sit and laugh after it's all over. Tomosane: Because you have a hero here to protect you! Yuki: Tomosane! Tomosane: Huh? Tomosane: Hey, whoa! Tomosane: Wh-Why do you have seaweed on your head? And what happened to your swimsuit? Yuki: It got swept away with the tide... It wasn't a good idea to go surfing in a bikini. Tomosane: R-Really? Yuki: Waaah. I usually wear a wetsuit when I go swimming, but I wanted to wear a bikini since I came to the beach with you, and it ended up getting washed away! Tomosane: Then why don't you come play with us instead of surfing? Yuki: Oh, come on! I was trying to be a considerate big sister for you guys. You two haven't had any alone time since you got here. Yuki: It's not like I actually wanted to go out in the ocean alone. I wanted to play with Hasaki-chan, too. Tomosane: You liar. I saw you having fun out there. Yuki: Yeah, there's no wind today, so the waves are beautiful. You just have to ride it like a rollercoaster. You can feel the wave cresting behind you. Tomosane: So you were having fun! I don't know all those technical terms, either. Yuki: Waaah! But now I'm bummed 'cause I lost my top... Tomosane: Yeah, yeah. Go put a shirt on, will you? Yuki: Waaah, I guess I will. Tomosane: So... what are you doing here now? Yuki: What's wrong? Come on, let me build something. Tomosane: Jeez, what're you gonna build? Yuki: Cinderella's castle. Tomosane: How are you gonna make that?! Yuki: Then what are you making, Tomosane? Tomosane: A really cool gundam! Hasaki: Oh... S-So that's what you were trying to make. Tomosane: Huh? Can't you tell? Hasaki: I-I was trying to make... a castle... Yuki: See, I told you! Tomosane: I-I guess... I was hoping that Hasaki would understand how cool heroes in disguise are, since she thought it was cool when I told her I would be her hero. Damn... No such luck, huh? Yuki: So let's make a castle. I'll get the concrete ready. Tomosane: What are you going to do with concrete? Yuki: Don't worry about that. Come on, Hasaki, let's do it. Hasaki: Y-Yeah... Yuki: So? What kind of castle do you wanna build? Tomosane: An evil castle, right? Dracula's castle. Yuki: Who cares about that guy? Don't you think Cinderella's castle sounds like more fun? Hasaki: Yeah... I want Cinderella's castle. Tomosane: What kind of castle did Cinderella have, anyway? Hasaki: I think it had a bunch of towers and stuff on it. Tomosane: A bunch of watchtowers? Well, they did call it an impenetrable fortress. I guess that sounds about right. Yuki: All right, get to work on your side, guys. Hasaki: Yeah. Yuki: I can't wait to get started. Tomosane: An impenetrable fortress... Well... Yuki: It's done... Whoa?! Hasaki: Huh? Yuki: What's that on top? Tomosane: I mean, this is what I think the castle should look like. Yuki: What the hell is it? Yuki: Avert your eyes, children. You shouldn't look at this. Yuki: All right, let's head home. You didn't forget anything, right? Hasaki: Nope. Tomosane: All right, let's go. Yuki: Okay, but remember we're not out of danger yet, so don't let your guard down. Tomosane: Sounds like we're in for it... I guess the danger didn't end at the sea. Maybe a tidal wave will hit and pull us back into the water. That would be a real disaster. Yuki-nee pedalled the bike, pulling a luggage carrier with all our things. Not only our luggage, but also Hasaki's bike and Hasaki herself. Riding uphill, at that. I was kind of surprised. She had no trouble pedalling the bike. It was all downhill on the way over, but now we have to go back up those very same hills. But I guess that doesn't matter to Yuki-nee. Yuki: Here we are.. * Ahaha, Hasaki-chan fell asleep."* Tomosane: Yeah, I'm pretty sure this is the first time she's gotten to play like this, you know? Yuki: Really? Tomosane: You've heard people here at the dojo talk about our family before, right? Yuki: Oh, well... Just rumors, really. Yuki: Especially about Sanami Kotomi-san... Oh, sorry, that's her old name. Now she's Mamiya Kotomi. Yuki: She was famous in this village. Tomosane: That woman... My mother, what is she? Why does everyone pay attention to her? Yuki: What is she? Well, she's still just human... Yuki: I'm pretty sure it was before I was born, but one of the nearby villages became a ghost town. Tomosane: A village? Yuki: Yeah, it was really underpopulated. But around here, it's still pretty famous. Tomosane: A famous village? Yuki: There's a shrine there. I hear it's called Sanagi Shrine. Yuki: Well, it's an old legend, so I don't actually know much about it, but people say that the souls of all the people that die in this area gather at that shrine. Tomosane: Wow... Yuki: They say there's an enormous hole under the spot where the shrine was built, and the hole is actually a path to the underworld. Tomosane: Is that true? Yuki: Doesn't it sound like a lie? Tomosane: I guess so. Yuki: Like I said, it's just an old superstition. Yuki: Something ridiculous like that can't actually exist. Yuki: Kotomi-san was born at that shrine. Tomosane: Oh, I've heard about that. It's supposed to be some kind of weird shrine where they practice the occult. Yuki: The occult, huh? Well, that part might be true. Yuki: People in this area believe that the women from that shrine can control the dead. Tomosane: But can they? Yuki: That's my question. Tomosane, have you ever seen your mother controlling a dead person? Tomosane: No, never. Yuki: I guess not. Yuki: So it's just superstition. Yuki: The truth is probably that Kotomi-san has no special powers, but people in this village are weak to old superstitions. Tomosane: Everyone believes it... Yuki: Maybe not everyone. I don't know what they all believe, but it's definitely a bit creepy to think even some of them believe that's true. Yuki: It's no coincidence that she married into the Mamiya household, a family of traditional martial artists and Shinto practitioners here in Sawaimura. Tomosane: You think? Yuki: Do you remember Grandpa Mamiya? The one that died a few years ago? Tomosane: Yeah, but he died right after I moved here, so I don't really remember him. I heard he was the strongest person in the dojo. Yuki: Yeah, he was incredibly strong. I watched an exhibition match once, but my dad got beat up in a few seconds. Tomosane: Huh? Your dad was in an exhibition match? Yuki: Yeah, but this guy was on a different level. Tomosane: But it was just an exhibition, right? Yuki: If you fight a man like that, you fight to the death. Of course it was an exhibition. Tomosane: To the death? Yuki: My dad was really stupid, so he came and tried to challenge the whole dojo when he was younger. Yuki: After that, he swore to never fight Grandpa Mamiya outside of an exhibition match ever again. Tomosane: The old man was really that strong, huh? Yuki: He was born before the war, you know? He went to the mainland during the war, and he fought and killed more people than you could count. Tomosane: But he was such a small man. Yuki: When he faced an opponent, he knew everything. Tomosane: Knew everything? Yuki: What kind of attack would come next, what the opponent was thinking... Tomosane: What are you talking about? That sounds like magic. Yuki: Well, yeah. It does, but that's what I've heard. Yuki: Something happened a long time ago, when my dad stayed here as an apprentice. Yuki: In the middle of the night, the old man yelled and woke everyone up. Yuki: It was amazing. He yelled, 'What the hell are you doing?! There are rats eating our rice cakes, you fools!' Tomosane: His hearing was good, then. Yuki: Good doesn't even describe it. He was sleeping in another building. He wasn't even close to the dojo. Tomosane: R-Really? Yuki: Yeah, really. I've heard a lot of other stories like that too. Tomosane: So he really was that strong. I only have a fuzzy memory of him. Yuki: Traditional martial arts were passed down by Shinto practitioners, so the Mamiya family might have some element of spiritual power in their martial arts. Tomosane: By spiritual power, you really mean superpowers, right? Yuki: Well, I guess that's the easiest way to think about it. You mean like supernatural abilities and stuff like that? Tomosane: Like throwing someone across the room without even touching them? Yuki: Oh, no, I never heard about anything like that, but apparently he could read people's minds like it was nothing. Tomosane: Wow, really? Yuki: I dunno. Don't you think it's true? At the very least, my dad definitely didn't want to fight him ever again. Tomosane: I guess so... I never knew. Yuki: And in the neighboring village, there was a priestess from Sanagi Shrine, with the blood of Sanami. The Mamiyas were the only family that would take someone like that. Yuki: The Mamiya family practiced the ancient techniques for hundreds of years to acquire their spiritual powers. Tomosane: Oh, really? I never knew. Yuki: So if you make your mom too mad, she might send zombies after you. Tomosane: What are you talking about zombies for? Yuki: I dunno. I just thought it sounded cool. Tomosane: Don't worry. There's no way that woman has any special powers. Yuki: I guess so. Yuki: But that's why the people from this village feared Sanami Kotomi like the plague. Tomosane: Like the plague? Yuki: It just means they were really afraid of her. That's not all, though. Fear usually turns into violence, you know? Tomosane: Violence? What do you mean? Yuki: People often strike out at what they fear. Tomosane: Strike out? Yuki: In other words, they discriminate. Tomosane: Discrimination? You mean like bullying? Yuki: Yeah, something like that. When a bunch of adults bully someone, it's called discrimination. Tomosane: When adults bully someone, huh? That's crazy. Yuki: Yeah, and that kind of bullying can really change someone when it's that bad. Especially at school and stuff. Tomosane: I see. Yuki: At that time, the only person who helped her was your father. Tomosane: My father... Yuki: Your father was a really nice guy. He couldn't stand to see someone discriminated against because of some old superstition. Tomosane: Doesn't mean he had to marry her! Yuki: No, no, at first he was just trying to be nice, but in the end the two fell in love. Yuki: So they eloped together to escape the persecution here in the village. And that's how you were born. Tomosane: I see. She was hated by the village people, so they ran away to Tokyo. Tomosane: I guess that's why the people around here kind of look at me funny. Yuki: The Mamiya family is well respected by the villagers. Besides, Hiroo-san was really smart and very nice. No one thinks less of you because you're his son. Tomosane: Hmm... I guess, but even if they liked one of my parents, they still hated the other one. Tomosane: But Hasaki is different. Hasaki doesn't have Mamiya blood in her veins. Yuki: Haa... So you think people from the village will discriminate against Hasaki? Tomosane: Don't you? Yuki: I wonder if people really believe in that stuff anymore. Tomosane: But I heard some people at the dojo talking. They said Hasaki is one of the Sanami. Yuki: But that's just a rumor, right? It's just people making idle chatter. Tomosane: I can still tell they have different feelings toward Hasaki, though. Yuki: Jeez... Okay, okay. I can't deny that. Yuki: Even if it's just an old superstition, some of the people in this village still haven't caught up with the times. Yuki: There aren't very many houses with cable television, and it takes over an hour to bike to the next village if I want to play at the community center. Yuki: If you don't have cable television, you can't watch Discovery or History. You can't get those channels unless you have cable. Tomosane: ... That's all you care about? Yuki: Is there some kind of problem with Hasaki? Tomosane: O-Of course there is. Do you think Hasaki deserves to get bullied too, just because she has Sanami blood?! Yuki: Not at all. Of course I don't think that. I really like Hasaki. Tomosane: Then what're you gonna do? Yuki: What do I need to do? There's no problem, right? Tomosane: There is a problem! A big problem! Yuki: I don't think there's a problem. She has a hero to save her if she gets in trouble, after all. Tomosane: Huh? Yuki: From what I hear, there's a transforming action hero looking out for her. Do you know anything about him? Tomosane: Y-You were listening?! Yuki: Yeah, I heard most of it. Tomosane: Y-Yuki-nee! I never expected you to be an eavesdropper! Yuki: Oh, come on. I wanted to say something, but it sounded like you were talking about something important. I didn't want to interrupt the conversation, you know? Tomosane: Yuki-nee, you, you... Yuki: Ahahaha, but it shouldn't be a problem, right * No matter what happens here in the village, she will always have a hero to protect her, right?"* Yuki: That said, I don't think you have anything to worry about it. No one from Sawai is going to try to hurt Hasaki. They might talk about her, but that's all. Yuki: This is modern Japan. Look, you can just go to Jasco if you want to buy something. They're not going to discriminate against a little girl just because of some old superstition. Yuki: Besides, I'm here for her, and so is my dad. There's the whole Mamiya family, too. Tomosane: Yeah... Yuki: So don't worry about it. Yuki: You just have to do your part and look after her. Tomosane: All right. Yuki: All right, that's what I wanted to hear. Anyway, I'll see ya later, Tomosane! Tomosane: ... Yuki-nee really is an adult, huh? Someday... Someday, I want... Tomosane: I want to beat her. That's right. She's like my rival―someone who I have to overcome because I'm a hero. I felt tired from going to the beach, but I couldn't really sleep. I guess I just sat on the shore and built sandcastles, so I wasn't actually all that tired. I looked at the clock. It was past ten. In the countryside, night comes early. Back in Tokyo, there would still be plenty of lights on. But in this village, everything is dark by this time. Tomosane: My mother, huh? I had never heard anything about her life before. I heard that she went to live with the Mamiya family when she was still a child, and then she eventually married their oldest son, my father. But I never heard the reason why she was living with the Mamiyas before now. I knew her maiden name was Sanami, but I hadn't heard the details. I just heard a bunch of creepy rumors. Her relationship with the fuckers at the White Lotus Association started there too. Tomosane: So she's descended from a shrine maiden that could lead the dead, huh? Just the atmosphere around her makes my skin crawl, so it's definitely fitting. Tomosane: But they say that those shrine maidens could control the dead. That's nonsense. If my mother could do that, she would've already killed me and Hasaki. Especially me. She already tried to cut my throat once. If she had those powers, she wouldn't need a knife. She could just kill me with her special powers. Tomosane: ... I looked at the ceiling. The wood grain in the old house almost looked like a person's face. It reminded me of my mother. It made me sick. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san? Tomosane: Hm? Tomosane: Huh? Hasaki, what's wrong? Hasaki: Um, can I sleep with you? Tomosane: Oh, uh... I don't really care. Hasaki: I'm kind of... scared of sleeping alone. Tomosane: Huh? Weren't you sleeping with Grandma? Hasaki: Yeah, but I'd rather be with you. Tomosane: What for? Hasaki: B-Because you're... you're my hero... Tomosane: Oh, I guess a hero wouldn't mind. Tomosane: All right, I'll go get another futon. Hasaki: I want to sleep in yours. Tomosane: My futon? Hasaki: Can I? Tomosane: Well, I guess I don't mind. There'll be more room if we get another, though. Hasaki: I don't want more room. Tomosane: Huh? I don't get it... All right, come here. Hasaki: Sure. Hasaki squeezed into my futon. Tomosane: Hm? What's that? I saw that she was holding something. Hasaki: Oh, this? They're twin rabbit dolls. Hasaki opened her hand, showing me the two small rabbit dolls in her hand. Tomosane: They look like something you would put on your phone. Do you always carry those around? Hasaki: Yeah, I always have them in my pocket. That's why they're dark black, I guess. Hasaki: Dad bought them for me. Tomosane: Wow... Dad bought 'em, huh? Hasaki: He actually bought one for Takuji and one for me. Hasaki: Takuji Nii-san said he didn't want to have a toy like that, so he threw it away. I took it because he didn't want it. Tomosane: That sure sounds like him. He really gets on my nerves. If I'd been there, I would've hit him right in the nose for that. Hasaki: No, thanks to him, I got two. They're twins, so they're happier together. Tomosane: Well, I guess if you don't mind... Two dolls. Twin dolls, given to the twins Takuji and Hasaki. That sounds like something Dad would think of. But Takuji didn't want his. Of course not. He resents the fact that he has a twin sister. Of course he'd throw away his doll. Hasaki: What's wrong? Tomosane: Oh, uh... It's nothing. Hasaki: Today was fun. Tomosane: That's good to hear. Hasaki: Yeah, and Yuki-san was really nice. Tomosane: Yeah, she's a nice girl. She's a bit violent, though. Hasaki: Not really. You said that before, but she's not violent. She's super nice. Tomosane: That's just because you don't know her. She can be nice, but she's actually really mean. Hasaki: But she's so nice... My life here in the country, with Hasaki... It's only supposed to last for the summer. Once summer break is over, Hasaki will return to Tokyo. Dad will get out of the hospital, and life will return to normal. That was the plan. Until we heard the news.
The end of summer. Hasaki and I had been called to visit our father in the hospital in Tokyo. All we were told beforehand was that he was going in for a routine checkup. But when we got there, we were greeted by the sight of him wasting away, hooked up to tubes and strange medical devices. Hasaki was reduced to simply clutching his hand, bawling her eyes out all the while. I couldn't do anything more than simply stand and watch. Takuji and his mother stood off to the side, their faces little more than expressionless masks. Outside, summer was drawing to a close, the sun quietly blazing away as it prepared for autumn. Inside, our father quietly drew his last breath. I couldn't help but wonder. Did he know things were going to end up like this? Maybe that was why he sent Hasaki to live with us in the first place. Not long thereafter, they read us his will. I was still young at the time―and, moreover, still numb from what had just happened. All of the technical stuff they told us about dividing up his estate or whatever just went in one ear and out the other. But one thing came through loud and clear. "Tomosane, I want you to take care of Hasaki." That was be the last message I received from my father. I found myself staring out of the window, gazing at the fading summer scenery. The blazing sun gave no indication that autumn would soon be upon us. A distant wall of rainclouds caught my eye as I idly scanned through the landscape. Those clouds were probably raining down on a fertile field. There were probably more important things to be worrying about as I sat there in that cold room, my father's motionless body lying in front of my eyes, but for the life of me, none of them came to mind. Hasaki never really stopped crying that day. I just stood there next to her, at a loss. I finally realized how much time had passed when the light filtering in through the windows faded to sunset's crimson. Roused from my reverie, I turned to find Takuji and his mother nowhere in sight. In their place stood our grandmother. She told me plainly that our father's ceremony would be carried out at the Mamiya house―in other words, in Sawaimura. Apparently, this was upon our mother's request. I couldn't help but wonder just how low she could sink. Her own husband had died, yet she was just passing the ceremony off to his relatives out in the country? Did she just feel absolutely no sense of responsibility for anything? At that moment, I could feel nothing but anger directed at her. The rest of my emotions laid uncannily silent; it was as if nothing else mattered. Hasaki and I were told to return to Sawaimura ahead of everyone else in a car waiting outside. Hasaki refused to budge at first, tears still welling up in her eyes. Hoping to assuage her in some way, our grandmother leaned down and spoke to her softly. "Your father's soul isn't in this hospital any longer, Hasaki." "He's going to travel back home to Sawaimura with you two." "I'm sure he can't wait to get back. Be a good girl and head on home so he can leave too, okay?" Hasaki seemed to accept it after that. As for me... Well, regardless of where our father's soul had gone, I didn't think it'd be returning to Sawaimura with us. I just... refused to believe that. This time, our grandmother leaned in toward me. She spoke to me in the same tone she'd used with Hasaki. "One day you'll understand, Tomosane." Yuki: Hey, you two... Welcome back. Hasaki: Y-Yuki-san... Hasaki: Waah! Daddy... Daddy's... Yuki: ... Hasaki buried herself in Yuki-nee's chest, tears streaming down her face. I just stood and watched. Yuki-nee cast me a gentle smile as she rubbed Hasaki on the head. As soon as I caught sight of that smile, I just... I just couldn't fight it back any longer. Tomosane: ... I couldn't make out anything but my own sobs. I must've been weeping pathetically, but all I could hear at the time was my own gasping. I buried myself in Yuki-nee's arms and gave myself over to the tidal wave of emotion rushing through me. Just a moment ago, I hadn't felt anything but anger toward my mother, but right then it felt like my heart was about to break from grief. I simply cried. Yuki-nee said nothing. She just held us tight. I gave up trying to think about what was happening. I simply cried. Yuki-nee kept holding us, a sad smile upon her lips. The tears just wouldn't stop coming. We stood there in her embrace, crying for what felt like years. Summer faded away around us. The piercing light of mid-day vanished like a candle in the wind. The fresh night air felt oddly soothing. We finally headed inside some time later. That night, Hasaki couldn't get to sleep. She kept coming to me, asking where our father had gone. "Grandma told us he was here, so why can't we see him?" I told her that he was up there in the sky now. That there was a place called heaven up there above the clouds, and that he had gone up there. Hasaki never did stop crying. She cried all through the night.
I finished the Tamagushi offering, a ritual offering performed during the overnight vigil in the Shinto tradition. Then I noticed for the first time that Hasaki wasn't there. Tomosane: Hey, Yuki-nee? Yuki: Hm? What's up? Tomosane: Have you seen Hasaki? Yuki: Huh? Wasn't she with you? Tomosane: I'm pretty sure she was here, but after I offered the Tamagushi, she was gone. Yuki: Maybe she's in the bathroom? Tomosane: I already checked the bathroom in the house, but she wasn't there. Yuki: Where the heck is she? Yuki-nee quickly ran off to search around the house. I searched the area around the house too, looking in every place I could think of. Yuki: Find her? Tomosane: No, I didn't. I asked some other people too. Minakami: Tomosane, did you say Hasaki-chan is gone? Tomosane: Master! Um, she's not in the house. I even checked the cupboards and drawers. Yuki: We searched around the house too, but she's not around here. Minakami: Why would she run off at this time? Tomosane: I don't know. I think she was here before I offered the Tamagushi, but then when I turned around she was gone. Yuki: Anyway, can you get some of the students to help us look for her? Minakami: Sure, of course. I'll go ask everyone that isn't busy. Yuki: Let's go, Tomosane. We should go look by the water. Tomosane: The water? Yuki: That's the most dangerous place. We wouldn't want her to hurt herself! Minakami: I'll go look over by the beach. Yuki: At her age, I don't think she could really get all the way out to the beach, so we don't have to worry about that. Yuki: All right, Tomosane and I will go look by the irrigation ditches. Minakami: I'll leave it up to you. Yuki: Haa, haa, she's not over by the ditch... I'm pretty sure. Yuki: There was a pond out there, right? Tomosane: ... Yuki: What's wrong, Tomosane? Tomosane: Oh, it's just... I think Hasaki said something weird earlier. Yuki: Something weird? Tomosane: Uh, there's a road behind the school, right? Yuki: Yeah, there is. Tomosane: She asked what was down that road. Yuki: On the other side of the hill? Tomosane: There's a field of sunflowers on the hill. It would be pretty hard for Hasaki to get out there on foot. Tomosane: But Hasaki was always asking what was out there on the other side of the sunflowers. Tomosane: She liked to imagine that there was something out there. Yuki: Out there? It's just the mountain wilderness, isn't it? Tomosane: Yeah, that's why she might be in trouble. It's getting late. Yuki: Tomosane, we need to hurry! Tomosane: Hasaki! Yuki: Hasaki-chan! I searched the field of sunflowers with Yuki-nee. Yuki: These sunflowers are as tall as us. I can hardly see a thing. Tomosane: Maybe she kept going down this road. Yuki: Gotcha, I'll search down the road, so you just wait here. Tomosane: Why? Yuki: You dummy, I can't let a child go wandering out in the mountains at night! Tomosane: I'm not a kid! Yuki: Hush! Just wait here! Tomosane: Hey, Yuki-nee! Just like that, she ran off down the road. Tomosane: Damn it... To be honest, I can't run nearly as fast as her. Even if I ran after her, I couldn't catch her. I had nothing to do but look around the sunflower field. Tomosane: Hasaki! The sunflowers were even taller than I was, and my voice was drowned out in the thick vegetation. No matter how much I yelled, my words were simply swallowed up by the sunflowers. Tomosane: Damn it. She probably wouldn't hear me if she was here. I kept yelling out into the field of sunflowers, but I wasn't accomplishing anything. Eventually, I went to search the top of the hill instead. I figured my voice would carry further if I went up to the peak. I stood up on a high place where I could look over the entire field, and as I was about to call out Hasaki's name again... Tomosane: Huh? Once I could see out over the entire field of sunflowers, I noticed something for the first time. Tomosane: Is that... a road? Over on the far side of the field, there was some kind of trail. The trail led up to the main mountain road. Tomosane: There's another path over there. The sunflowers were so tall that I didn't even notice. Tomosane: ... Yuki-nee told me to wait, but I couldn't keep that promise. There was another road that Yuki-nee didn't go down. It was possible that Hasaki actually went down this road. So I... I cut through the field of sunflowers and ran up the steep road. Tomosane: Haa, haa, haa, haa... I had no idea where the road would lead. On the other side of the monstrous blooming sunflowers, that road led into the darkness itself, like something from beyond the pale of our own familiar world. If Hasaki took my words literally... Dad's soul is far away, in the sky. He made his journey to a place called Heaven. If she took those words literally, she would want to follow this path to its end. A path through the proud sunflowers into the heart of nature's darkness, like a path to connect the realms of life and death. If there was any place that Hasaki would imagine her father's soul taking up its final residence, it would be this place, beyond the hill of sunflowers. That's why I ran. I ran up the steep hill with all my might. I ran headlong into the night, and I saw a light before me. It was like we were coming out upon the world's exterior. A world of deep blue. Brilliant, shining stars were woven into the tapestry. I'd never seen such a night sky. It looked like the sky was falling. Tomosane: What's this? I was taken aback by the sheer number of stars. The starry night sky was always a beautiful sight in this village. But in the three years I'd lived here, I had never seen such a beautiful sky. It was like... Hasaki: Like the souls of the dead flying away. Tomosane: Hasaki! Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san! Tomosane: Ah! I barely caught Hasaki before she fell. She was totally covered in mud. She probably stumbled and fell when she was climbing up here. She was obviously so tired she could hardly stand. Hasaki: One of these... One of them is Dad's soul, right? Hasaki: But I'm not tall enough... I can't reach him... Tomosane: You dummy... It doesn't matter how tall you are, no one could reach Dad's soul just by reaching up. Hasaki: But they're all so close... Tomosane: It doesn't matter. You can't reach Dad anymore. Hasaki: But we came all the way to the edge of the world... A sky full of stars that seemed about to rain down upon our heads. I wasn't really surprised that Hasaki would think it was the edge of the world. That this could've been the edge of the world. Hasaki started to cry. Hasaki: This isn't the edge of the world... Tomo Nii-san! Hasaki: Dad's soul isn't here... Hasaki cried into my chest. I just held her and tried to comfort her. Hasaki: There's no edge to the world, is there? Look... Hasaki pointed with her finger. But she didn't point toward Sawaimura. It was another village, just like Sawaimura, lit up with the lights of human life. There was another village out there. And after that, a bigger town. No matter how far she walked, she would always find something else out there. No matter how far she tried to journey into the unknown, she could never reach the place where our father's soul had come to rest. That was the first time Hasaki was forced to face that truth. The truth of her father's death. The true meaning of the word. I held Hasaki close. Tomosane: Let's go back. Everyone is worried about you. Hasaki: Everyone is worried? Tomosane: Yeah, they really are. Everyone in the village is probably looking for you by now. You just disappeared on us, you know? Hasaki: Looking for me? Tomosane: Yeah. If Dad knew you went out alone at night like this, he would have to scold you. Hasaki: I'm sorry... Tomosane: You dummy. Just don't do it again. Tomosane: Come on. I squatted down and gave Hasaki my back. Tomosane: I'll carry you. You can't walk, can you? Hasaki: I-I'm not sure... Tomosane: I just watched you fall a second ago. Hurry up and get on already. Hasaki: O-Okay... Hasaki: I'm sorry... Tomosane: What for? Hasaki: For making you worry. Tomosane: Yeah, no kidding. Hasaki: But how did you know where I was? Tomosane: How? Are you stupid? Hasaki: Huh? Why? Tomosane: I told you, I'm your hero. What kind of hero would I be if I didn't come rescue you when you were in trouble? Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: Heroes have to know things like that. Hasaki: I guess so. Tomosane: So of course I knew where you were. Hasaki: Um, Tomo Nii-san... Here. Tomosane: What? Isn't this your rabbit doll? Hasaki: Yeah, I'll give you one. Tomosane: Really? Won't the other one get lonely? Hasaki: She has me, so she'll be okay. Tomosane: Ahaha... That's silly. Tomosane: Oh, right. In that case, there was that rabbit in the store window, right? I'll buy that for you. Hasaki: Huh? The store? Tomosane: You know, the one you saw when we went to Jasco. The great big rabbit in the window. Hasaki: The stuffed rabbit from that store called Wakatsuki? Tomosane: You still remember the store name too? Hasaki: Yeah, that rabbit was at the store called Wakatsuki. Tomosane: Oh, really? In that case, I'll buy the rabbit from that store for you. Hasaki: But it was expensive. Tomosane: Are you dumb? Don't underestimate me. My bank account is worth more than most countries' entire GDP. Hasaki: Really? Tomosane: Yeah, really. So don't worry about it. Hasaki: If that's true, then I'll give you this one too. Tomosane: Huh? Both of 'em? Hasaki: Yeah, that way neither of them will get lonely. Tomosane: You think? Hasaki: When you give me the big rabbit, I'll be her twin. Hasaki: Then you can take both of the little rabbit twins. Tomosane: Are you sure? Hasaki: ... Then Hasaki went quiet. I realized she'd fallen asleep. She was obviously tired. Tomosane: But still... I told her I was her hero, but the truth is, it was just dumb luck that I found her. Or maybe it really was Dad leading me to her. They say a person's soul can stay on Earth for a while before leaving for Heaven. Tomosane: In that case, Dad, I hope you're listening. Tomosane: I... I'm gonna hold a grudge against you, Dad. Tomosane: Because you were always too nice to people. That's why this happened. Tomosane: So now that you're dead, just look after Hasaki. Tomosane: You just need to protect Hasaki. Tomosane: I'm not asking anything else. Tomosane: Just watch over her, so she can be happy. Tomosane: Please, Dad. A starry sky, so full of stars that they could rain down upon our heads at any moment, laid above us. I stood under just such a starry sky as I uttered the last words I would ever say to my father.
There was a problem with the doll I told Hasaki I would buy for her. Even with my savings that dwarf most countries' entire GDP, it was too expensive. I decided to make one myself, and I asked Yuki-nee for help. I went to the store over and over to take pictures, and the two of us analyzed how it was made. Yuki-nee and I tried several times to create a rabbit, but it always turned out looking more like a squid or octopus. Nevertheless, we kept trying to make a good rabbit. When the seasons started to change... The autumn paints the trees with beautiful shades of red and orange. Yuki-nee, Hasaki, and I walked through the falling leaves. Hasaki still didn't know much about the countryside, so she was stunned when she saw the leaves. To me and Yuki-nee, it was completely normal, but it was a brand-new experience for Hasaki. Hasaki gasped as she looked up at the fiery colors in the trees. Her face was kind of funny. When winter came, Sawaimura was closed off by snow. Winter isn't really that long, but compared to Tokyo an unbelievable amount of snow falls every year. I played with Hasaki in the snow more times than I could count. By then, Hasaki had some some friends too. I played with her and her friends in the snow. We had snowball fights. We built snowmen. We even built igloos in the snow. Hasaki thought that igloos only existed in storybooks, so she was happier than I'd ever seen her when we built a real one. Hasaki's blustery red face stood in contrast to the world of white that surrounded us as we played in the snow. I had never seen Hasaki smile so much before. That's when I knew that I was really glad that Hasaki had come to the village. There were no weird prophecies to worry about here. That weird woman we call our mother, and Takuji too... They couldn't bully her out here. Hasaki laughed in the snow. As she played in the snow... Her cheeks were bright red from the cold. The garish decorations that would mark Christmas in Tokyo were almost completely absent in this village. The shopping center in the next town over was pretty heavily decorated, but there was nothing special happening in Sawaimura. This year, Hasaki spent the New Year with the Mamiyas. Unlike Christmas, New Year's was a lavish event with the Mamiyas. It's a Shinto holiday as well, so that shouldn't be surprising. I got a New Year's gift from Yuki-nee. There was only 5 yen inside. I was going to get mad at her for that, but then I saw that Hasaki got 10,000 yen in hers. Yuki-nee laughed and said... Yuki: Your brother can help you spend it. Yuki-nee said she had plenty of money since she had been working part-time in the next town over. But I couldn't really believe that a student like Yuki-nee would have "plenty" of money. I was thankful regardless. Then Yuki-nee said something else. Yuki: I do have to act like a big sister on occasion. Yuki-nee smirked after saying that. What are you talking about?& You've always been like a big sister to me. Yuki-nee was always like a big sister watching out for us. Then the seasons changed again. Spring came. We kept making rabbits, and by this time we had quite a few failed creations. The white ears and paws we tried to put on each rabbit ended up looking more like tentacles on a squid. We came back to that store so many times that the old lady who owned the shop gave us the measurements for the rabbit doll, and she even gave us a stand for a doll to sit on. Then after so many prototypes, we finally finished a doll that looked like a real rabbit. Before I knew it, fall and winter had already turned into spring. By the time I could give her the rabbit doll, Hasaki had grown accustomed to life in Sawaimura. As it turned out, no one bullied her while she was here. Hasaki even had lots of good friends. Her life here was happy. A spring snowfall. The season of falling cherry blossoms. Hasaki and I both advanced a grade in school. Yuki-nee too, of course. And a new year was about to start... or so we thought. Just before summer... I remember the events of that day. The first day Hasaki came to this village. The last day I saw my father smile. That summer day. The sun was stronger than ever, blazing down on the land. Only a year had passed, but it felt like we'd been together for a very long time. I lived with Hasaki as the various seasons passed, and then summer came around again. Sawaimura was covered in greenery, and the sky was blue. And the sun shone upon it. Sunflowers raised their proud heads on that hill once again.
The end of summer. Even then, the sun still blazed high in the sky. Cumulonimbi still floated high in the blue sky. Those clouds no doubt rained down on a parched field out there. The end of the season. The same day that Dad died had come again. A year later, it was still a sad day. We had a lot of fun times, but Hasaki still cried on the night before the anniversary of his death. It'd been a long time since Hasaki had cried. Maybe it'd been a whole year. One year since that day. I kept thinking about that day. Then something happened to destroy it all. On the anniversary of his death, that woman appeared, even though she hadn't come to the funeral. Takuji and our mother had come to Sawai. Tomosane: Why are you here? Kotomi: ... She just looked at me. Takuji stood in front of her. Takuji: You still don't know how to talk to your mother, do you, Nii-san? Tomosane: Hmph. I don't think of her as my mother. Hasaki: T-Tomo Nii-san. Takuji: Hasaki... Long time no see, hehehe. Hasaki: Eek! Tomosane: It's just creepy when you laugh. Look, you're scaring Hasaki. Takuji: Don't call me creepy. That's rude. I was smiling because I hadn't seen my little sister in so long. Tomosane: Smiling? That's a pretty nasty smile you got there. Takuji: Rude as ever, aren't we? Kotomi: Where is my mother? Tomosane: If you're looking for Grandma, she's in the house. Kotomi: All right. Takuji, let's go. Tomosane: Why are those bastards in Sawaimura? Hasaki: For Dad's first anniversary maybe? Tomosane: The first anniversary of a funeral they didn't even come to? Hasaki: Yeah. I don't really understand why they're here... Tomosane: Takuji hasn't changed a bit. Hasaki: Takuji Nii-san always listens to Mom. Tomosane: That motherfucker! "I guess that makes you a sisterfucker, doesn't it?" Tomosane: Wh-What'd you say?! Tomosane: Yuki-nee. Yuki: Was that your little brother just now? Tomosane: Yeah, Hasaki's twin brother. Yuki: Twins, huh? Wow. Tomosane: He's the kind of scum that'd hit his sister. Yuki: Hit her? Don't all siblings fight sometimes? Tomosane: Hasaki doesn't do anything to him. It's just him being mean to her. Yuki: Hmm, I see. Yuki: Oh, Hasaki-chan, you really like that doll, don't you? I always see you carrying it around. Hasaki: Yeah... Hasaki hugged the rabbit doll to her chest. It took me and Yuki-nee three seasons to make that rabbit. It wasn't quite as good as the rabbit in the store window, but Hasaki was quite enamored with her doll nonetheless. Yuki: Hmm, do you have the twin rabbits you got from Hasaki-chan, Tomosane? Tomosane: They're in my room. Yuki: You should attach them to your phone or something, dumbass! Don't let them out of your sight! Tomosane: I-I'm a guy! I can't walk around with something like that! Hasaki: Y-You don't like them? Yuki: You duummmmy! Tomosane: Ow! Hey, don't hit me, stupid! Yuki: You're the stupid one! Yuki: Jeez, don't talk about Hasaki-chan's precious gift like that. Tomosane: I guess, but still, I can't put a rabbit doll on my phone. Yuki: Shut up! Don't let it out of your sight, you hear me?! You're so stupid! Tomosane: Ugh... Okay, fine. Yuki: So how is your doll doing? Hasaki: It ripped a couple times, but Tomo Nii-san fixed it for me. Yuki: Oh, wow... Tomosane: It took us so many tries that I learned how to sew up little things like that. Yuki: You're good at all sorts of stuff, aren't you? Hasaki: Yeah, and he does well in school too. Tomo Nii-san gets good grades, and he's amazing at sports. Tomosane: No, my grades are... Well, let's just say the bar is set pretty low in this village. Yuki: But I heard your grades were good in Tokyo too. Tomosane: Well, I did study because I didn't want to lose to that jerk Takuji. Yuki: Ahaha... You really don't like your little brother. Tomosane: It's more than that. I can't let him beat me at anything. Hasaki: I heard Takuji Nii-san got really amazing grades at school after you left. Hasaki: I heard his test scores were some of the best in the country. Tomosane: Huh? Seriously? Hasaki: Yeah. Yuki: Whoa, now you're the one who's losing. Tomosane: Wh-Who cares about that?! Being a man is about more than just getting good grades! Yuki: Then what is it about? Tomosane: Men should be able to fight. Yuki: Are you an idiot? Tomosane: Anyway, if Takuji comes, make sure you yell for me right away. Hasaki: Oh, okay. Tomosane: Who knows what he's up to... Yuki: ... Yuki-nee's expression was conflicted. She probably wanted to say that siblings should get along. But Yuki-nee also understood that our family situation wasn't quite that simple. So she looked troubled, but she couldn't say anything. "Oh, if it isn't you, Nii-san." Tomosane: What are you two here for? Takuji: What are we here for? Naturally, we're here for the anniversary of my beloved father's death. Tomosane: What are you babbling about? You guys didn't even come to his funeral. Takuji: That's because Mother was much too bereaved to come. She loved Father very dearly, you know. Tomosane: Loved him? Are you stupid? If she loved him, why did she betray him?! Takuji: other betrayed Father? That's only the fact that Hasaki and I were born * Don't you understand that?"* Tomosane: Wh-What? Takuji: Because Hasaki and I aren't Mamiya children. Half is Mother's blood, and the other half is from the pastor of the White Lotus Association. Takuji: Even a child like me can understand what that means. The stork didn't bring us, and we weren't found in the vegetable patch. Takuji: Cause and effect... You would call the cause a betrayal, right? Takuji: But if you call that a betrayal, then what of me and Hasaki, the children that were born as the effect? Tomosane: You're just spouting nonsense! Takuji: It's not nonsense. It's merely reality. Takuji: If you want to call Mother a traitor, then you should call Hasaki the same thing. Tomosane: Why would I do that?! Hasaki didn't do anything wrong! Who would call her a traitor? Tomosane: No one would say that! I won't let you say that. I'll never let you. Takuji: As usual, you're not being logical. I just can't understand you. Takuji: If Mother is a traitor, then Hasaki and I are both the result of treachery, the symbol of an ethically problematic birth out of wedlock. Isn't that the logical conclusion here? Tomosane: Grr... What a creepy guy. He was always like this, but he's gotten even worse with age. He keeps using words I've never heard before. Tomosane: Hasaki isn't the symbol of treachery. You always distort the situation and force your own interpretation on things. Tomosane: That woman who betrayed Dad and slept with another man is a traitor. That alone is the truth. Tomosane: That's not Hasaki's fault. There's no way any of that is Hasaki's fault. No matter what you say, Hasaki isn't the one who sinned! Takuji: Haa... Why do you want to protect Hasaki so much? Tomosane: Because she's my little sister, obviously! Takuji: Even though she has the blood of a traitor and an adulterer. Tomosane: Her blood doesn't matter. Who cares about a traitor's blood! An adulterer's blood? Are you stupid? Hasaki is my little sister, and that's all there is to it! Takuji: Hehehe... I thought you were a bit smarter than that. That argument doesn't hold water. Tomosane: I don't feel like having any argument with someone like you to begin with. Takuji: Why's that? If Hasaki is your little sister, then I'm your little brother, aren't I? Tomosane: Yeah, that's right. There was a time when I thought I could believe that, but I refuse to recognize a brother that would hope for Hasaki's death. Takuji: That again? When did I hope for Hasaki's death? Tomosane: You always have! Tomosane: You both wanted Hasaki to disappear. You thought it would be perfect if Hasaki would just disappear from this world. Tomosane: I've heard you both say that more times than I can count. Takuji: Haa... That's a misunderstanding. Tomosane: That wasn't a misunderstanding at all. You guys still believe in that silly prophecy, don't you? Takuji: Silly, is it? You must be talking about the White Lotus Association pastor's prophecy, right? Tomosane: Yeah, you and that woman still believe in it. That's why you hate Hasaki. Takuji: Hahaha... That's not true. I don't hate Hasaki at all. Tomosane: Don't play dumb, Takuji. Takuji: All right, all right. I'll admit that in the past I occasionally had some thoughts like that. Takuji: That doesn't mean that I still hate Hasaki. To me, Hasaki is a precious little sister. Tomosane: Precious? The only precious thing to you is the savior's blood heritage, isn't it? Takuji: The White Lotus Association's prophecy... Do you really think we still believe in that? Tomosane: That's exactly what I think. Takuji: That's all in the past. Mother has already withdrawn from the White Lotus Association, you know. Tomosane: ... Takuji: Can't you just believe me and Mother after all this time? I'm sure that's what our father would've wanted too. Tomosane: D-Dad... I guess that really is what Dad would've wanted. He wanted us to live together as a family, not keep on hating each other. But... Tomosane: Anyway, if you do anything to Hasaki, I'll be coming after you. You'd better tell that woman, too. Takuji: You call her 'that woman'? You always say horrible things to Mother. Why don't you stop talking like that? Tomosane: No matter what you say to me, I won't forgive that woman. Tomosane: No matter what the reason was, the fact that she betrayed me and Dad won't change. Takuji: Hmm, I haven't seen you in a while, and now I'm just disappointed, Nii-san. Tomosane: What? Takuji: You're just a child. Everything you're saying is so immature. Tomosane: What did you call me, Takuji? Takuji: Hehehe... Oh, right, I guess you've gotten pretty strong. Tomosane: Yeah, I have. Takuji: You were always pretty strong, but this time it won't go the same way. Tomosane: Quit bluffing. If you want to fight, then I'll take you on. Come at me already. Takuji: Heh, no thanks... I don't know what you're thinking. I'm no good at fighting. Tomosane: What was that? Takuji: I'm not going to be a child forever. I'm not going to worry about things I can't beat you at, especially if they're worthless things. Tomosane: Worthless, huh? Takuji: Oh, sorry, sorry. Don't misunderstand me. I'm just saying that I don't want to fight you, that's all. Takuji: I just don't want to fight someone I can't beat is all. Tomosane: Tch. Takuji made that creepy laugh again. Even though his face was laughing, his eyes looked completely different. The anniversary ceremony ended before the sun went down. I tried to help with the cleanup, but Yuki-nee stopped me. Yuki: Don't worry about that. The students from the dojo will take care of it. More importantly... Then Yuki-nee took my hand. Hasaki was still holding onto my other hand. The sun was already setting as the three of us hit the road. As the curtain of night fell, Hasaki, Yuki-nee, and I walked up that same hill. Yuki: No matter how many times I see them, these sunflowers are really amazing. Tomosane: Yeah, it's pretty impressive seeing so many of them together. It's actually kind of creepy in a way. Hasaki: That's not true. The sunflowers are really pretty. Yuki: Do you like sunflowers, Hasaki-chan? Hasaki: Yeah. What about you? Yuki: Me, huh? Well, I guess I like them as much as most people. Hasaki: Well, I really like them a lot! Tomosane: H-Hey, don't run! You're gonna trip like last year! Yuki: Don't worry so much. It's not like she can see all the sunflowers whenever she wants. Let her have some fun. Tomosane: Well, that's true. Yuki: And Hasaki-chan has gotten a lot bigger since last year. She won't fall like she did before. Tomosane: Yeah. Hasaki really had changed in the last year. Her feet looked clumsy and unsure before, but now they nimbly danced over the soft earth. Yuki: What do you think about the sunflowers, Tomosane? Tomosane: The sunflowers, huh? I looked them up in a book, and it said they were related to Chrysanthemums. Yuki: I guess they are. Tomosane: I guess that's why they look like 'em. Yuki: Look like what? Tomosane: Like I said, like mums. Yuki: Really? Don't you think they're way too big? Tomosane: Yeah, their size and shape is different, but sunflowers and mums still look pretty similar. Yuki: What's similar about them? Tomosane: They're awfully gloomy. Yuki: I guess so. Yuki-nee looked up at the sunflowers again, as if she was convinced by my answer. Yuki: You know how they say that blooming sunflowers turn to face the sun, right? Yuki: If they turn to face the sun, doesn't that make them like a symbol of brightness? Tomosane: Blooming sunflowers don't turn to face the sun. Yuki: Huh? Really? Tomosane: Yeah. Sunflowers start to chase the sun before they bloom. Tomosane: Once they actually bloom, they stop chasing after the sun. Yuki: Wow. I didn't know that. Tomosane: That's another reason why they're just gloomy. Yuki: Why is that? Tomosane: Well, there probably aren't very many people who would say that sunflowers are gloomy. Tomosane: But to me, those flowers look like... To me... They're like... Tomosane: They look like flowers for funerals. Tomosane: I probably got a strong first impression of sunflowers on that day. I still remember the time when I followed Hasaki up this hill. Yuki: I see. So the sunflowers on the hill look like flowers for the deceased. Tomosane: Yeah. That's about right. Once you wade through the sunflowers, you come upon a road shrouded in darkness. Just like last year, it looked like the road to the underworld. Last year, I didn't know this, but there are actually a lot of people who believe that road crosses over the border to the underworld. I later realized that there are a lot of mentions of that road in old books in the village. In reality, that road doesn't lead to the underworld at all. Neither Hades nor Heaven, nor even a new world lies beyond that peak. It's just another ordinary landscape on the other side. Yuki: Hasaki-chan, are you okay? It's a pretty steep hill. Hasaki: Yeah, I-I'm okay. Tomosane: Don't worry about it so much, Yuki-nee. She's walked up here before. You're the one who said Hasaki has gotten a lot bigger, after all. Hasaki: Yeah, I'm okay. I'm bigger than I was back then. Yuki: Ahaha, that's true. You've really grown up in the last year, Hasaki-chan. Tomosane: You can't really grow up in just one year, though. Yuki: You don't know what you're talking about. Hasaki has definitely grown up a lot. Tomosane: How exactly has she grown up? Yuki: Let's see. She's taller, for example. Tomosane: Well, I guess so, but she's still a little squirt. Yuki: Also, she doesn't call herself 'Hasaki' when she's speaking. Tomosane: Oh, that's right. Sometimes she called herself Hasaki instead of just saying 'I.' Why did that change? Hasaki: Change? Did I really say that? Yuki: You still say it sometimes, but not very much anymore. Hasaki: Oh, really? I didn't even realize. Yuki: Well, you don't always say it. You've definitely changed from the way you were last year Tomosane: You sure are observant. Yuki: Of course I am. You've become awfully manly yourself. Tomosane: I was always a man. Yuki: No, I mean you've grown. Tomosane: Really? Yuki: You guys are still young, so maybe you don't know. Yuki: That's pretty common, actually. Even if you don't notice yourself changing, you're still changing. Yuki: Take this creepy mountain road you thought you'd never climb, for instance. All of a sudden, you find yourself using it every day, just like that. Yuki: Time passes, and sometimes it's hard to tell whether it's you that's changing or the world around you. Tomosane: Is it like that for you too? Yuki: Don't ask me. What do you think? Have I changed? Tomosane: You haven't changed much. Not at all, really. Yuki: I'll take your word for it. We made our way through the darkness and came out on the same hilltop as before. The stars shone in the clear sky. Hasaki: Wow... Yuki: The stars really are beautiful today. Yuki: It's a waning moon today. Tomosane: Waning? Yuki: Yeah, it's a waning moon, but you can't see it yet. Yuki: There's no moonlight, so the stars are really bright. Hasaki: That's why the sky is so pretty! Yuki: Yeah, that's right. Hasaki: Can I go play? Yuki: Yeah, but don't go any further than this. Hasaki: Why not? Yuki: There's a place where the hill turns into a steep cliff. Hasaki: A cliff? Yuki: Yeah, so don't walk over here. Hasaki: All right. Yuki: What about you, Tomosane? Tomosane: What about me? Yuki: Won't you play with us? Tomosane: Why? Yuki: You want to play, don't you? Tomosane: Not really. I'm not a kid. Yuki: You really are a kid... Tomosane: Hmph. That's what you always say. Yuki: I guess so. That's why... Tomosane: Why what? Yuki: You need to grow up already. Tomosane: Huh? Tomosane: Wh-What's that mean? Are you treating me like a kid again? Yuki: No, no, I'm just saying you ought to hurry up and become a real man. Tomosane: Come on, I am a real man. Yuki: Jeez, do I have to spell it out for you? Tomosane: Sure, spell it out for me. Yuki: Okay, fine. Yuki: Tomosane, you ought to grow up and propose to me. Tomosane: Huh? Wh-What's that supposed to mean? Yuki: Ahaha, you're blushing! Hahahaha. Tomosane: Wh-What? Are you're teasing me? Yuki: Ahaha, you're blushing so much. Tomosane: Wh-Why, you―! Yuki: S-Stop it! Whoa! Yuki: Ow, ow, ow... Tomosane: Huh?! Yuki: Come on, now. You're a lot bigger than you used to be, so be careful. Hurry up, you're heavy. Tomosane: S-Sorry! Yuki: Why are you blushing? Tomosane: Oh, uh... Yuki: Huh... Whoa, my skirt! Yuki: Did you look? Tomosane: Oh, uh... Just for a second... Yuki: Hmph! Tomosane: Ah, wait, I'm sorry. Yuki: Heh.. * Hahahahahaha!"* Tomosane: Wh-What? Yuki: Oh, nothing. It's just that we're both old enough now that I have to care if you see my underwear. Tomosane: What do you mean? Yuki: You don't understand? Well, that makes sense. It's just that before I never would've cared if you saw my underwear, because you were just some dumb kid. Yuki: Ahahaha, but I'm getting red too. Why am I blushing? Tomosane: Wh-Why wouldn't you be?! Yuki: I guess it's not that weird, yeah. Hahahaha... Yuki-nee kept on laughing loudly. I didn't understand why she was laughing. I wasn't entirely sure, but I felt like she wasn't making fun of me this time. Yuki: Still, though, the sky really is pretty. It's like the stars could coming raining down on top of us. Tomosane: But stars don't fall. Yuki: That's right. The stars don't fall. The only thing that falls on Earth is light from distant stars and distant worlds. Yuki: The world is really interesting. Tomosane: How so? Yuki: I mean, just look. We can see the light from worlds so far away. Tomosane: What's so strange about that? Yuki: How wide are our brains? Tomosane: What do you mean? Yuki: It's a poem. My favorite poem in the world. Yuki: The brain is wider than the sky. Yuki: For, put them side by side, the one the other will include... Yuki: With ease, and you beside. Yuki: The brain is deeper than the sea. Yuki: For, hold them, blue to blue... Yuki: The one the other will absorb... Yuki: As sponges, buckets do. Yuki: The brain is just the weight of God. Yuki: For, lift them, pound for pound... Yuki: And they will differ, if they do... Yuki: As syllable from sound. Tomosane: As syllable... from sound... Yuki: Yep. Tomosane: That's wrong. Yuki: Why? Tomosane: There is no God. Yuki: There's no God in the world. I see. Tomosane: Yeah, there's no way he could exist. If he existed, then why would he make our family be like this? Why would he kill Dad? Tomosane: The person called God... Yuki: He's not a person. Tomosane: Well, anyway, even if he existed, he'd be weak and powerless. A worthless jerk. Yuki: A worthless jerk? Yuki: Actually, speaking of that, I've thought about it too. Yuki: They say that God created the world in one week. Yuki: That's ridiculous. Yuki: If God really was the guy who created the world, he would say this. Yuki: 'I shouldn't have made this.' Yuki: Don't you think? Yuki: 'Wait, that part isn't done yet!' Tomosane: Yeah, that's what I think. No matter how many people are suffering on Earth, he just sits back and lives it up, like he doesn't give a shit. Yuki: Hehehe. If God was anything like a real person, that's what I would say to him. Yuki: Yeah, he's really just scum. Yuki: He can do anything, and yet he doesn't act. Yuki: That said, have you ever heard this? Tomosane: Heard what? Yuki: Have you heard the story about the footprints in the sand? Tomosane: What's that? Yuki: God walks beside us in our lives. So when you die and look back at the path your life took, you will find another set of footprints next to your own. Yuki: A human life is supported by another power. Yuki: But then, in the lowest and saddest times of your life, you will find only one set of footprints. Tomosane: There's no one walking beside you in your saddest moments. That's when you need God the most, isn't it? Yuki: That's not it. Yuki: In those moments, when you see only one set of footprints, that was when he carried you. Tomosane: Carried me? Yuki: That's right. Even when you think there's no way to keep going, you still move forward in life. Yuki: Just like when Hasaki-chan thought that there was no way she could ever climb that hill. Yuki: People always move forward. They can't stop in place. Yuki: There's one sentence inscribed in all our hearts. Tomosane: Inscribed in our hearts? Yuki: Yeah, a command that's inscribed in the heart of every person... No, a command inscribed in the heart of every living thing. Tomosane: In every living thing... Yuki: Yes, and that inscription says just this. Yuki: Live happily! Yuki: A cat. A dog. A zebra. A tiger. A cicada. And even a human. Yuki: Equally, they all must live happily! Tomosane: What are you talking about? Yuki: No animal lives without seeking happiness. They all live to seek their own happiness. Yuki: Because they are commanded to do so. Tomosane: Is that really a command? Yuki: Who knows? But don't you think it is? Yuki: And humans too... No, humans strive for happiness more than any other animal. Yuki: And then they despair. Tomosane: Why is that? Yuki: You can't despair until you've hoped for happiness. Yuki: It's the same reason why animals don't experience despair. Tomosane: But animals try to live happily too, don't they? Yuki: That's right. Tomosane: Then why don't animals experience despair? Yuki: That should be obvious. Animals are living in happiness. Tomosane: What? There are some animals that aren't happy, right? Yuki: There aren't. Animals are always happy. Yuki: All living beings are equally happy until the moment of their death. Tomosane: Why is that? Yuki: Who can say? Tomosane: You don't know? Yuki: Ahaha. I actually do. The answer is simple. Yuki: They don't know death. Yuki: Animals are living through an eternal phase. Yuki: So animals who try to live happily are always happy. Tomosane: Animals don't know death? Yuki: Isn't that obvious? Tomosane: Why not? Yuki: Because in reality, no one knows what death is. Tomosane: No one? Yuki: Yeah, no one knows death. No one has ever experienced death. Yuki: Death can only be imagined. It's not something you can ever actually reach. Yuki: People don't know death. And yet they imagine death, and they can only drown in the midst of happiness because of it. Yuki: Despair is a privilege reserved for those who can drown even in the midst of happiness. Tomosane: A privilege? That sounds like a bad thing. Yuki: That's right. Still, that's how people found their words. Yuki: Because they felt that the sky was beautiful. Yuki: Because they prayed that the world could be better. Yuki: Words, beauty, and prayers. Yuki: They found their wonderful days along with those three powers. Yuki: People, find happiness! Yuki: Do not drown in your happinesss. Do not despair of this world. Yuki: Just live happily. Something like that. Tomosane: Just live happily, huh? Yuki: Well, I'm kind of making it sound dramatic. Yuki: Ahahaha.. * But it's really amazing, you know."* Tomosane: What is? Yuki: I was just looking at the sky again. The stars really are amazing. Yuki: Ahahaha... Yuki-nee stretched her arms out and laughed. Yuki: This entire sky... this entire universe is all in our heads. It's so, so amazing. Tomosane: All in our heads... When she told me that, I looked up at the sky once again. This beautiful sky is in the world inside my head. Of course, that makes perfect sense. But once I arrived at that thought, my feelings changed to fear. All of it is just my own world. Anyone would be overwhelmed if they were faced with the realization that such an expansive, starry sky was all within their own head. Yuki: I thought of all that stuff just now. Tomosane: Really? Yuki: Yeah, that's what I thought when I looked up at the stars. Yuki: Of course, I always wondered about it. Just like you, Tomosane. Yuki: There is no God in the world. Yuki: Quite the opposite. Everything born into this world is under a sort of curse. Yuki: Because they all have to die. Yuki: All those happy times have to end. Yuki: All the joyful moments have to end. Yuki: No matter how much you might love someone. No matter how much you might love the world. Yuki: It will end. Yuki: It will all come to the end we call death. Yuki: That's why I think anyone born into this world is cursed. Yuki: Because happiness is just a warning of the end to come. Yuki: Maybe that's the reason why I saw the same dream over and over. Tomosane: The same dream? Yuki: Yeah. A dream about a baby. Tomosane: You're afraid of a baby in your dreams? Yuki: Yeah, it's really scary. It's such a scary dream that I wake up crying. Yuki: There's a newborn baby. I don't know who the mother is. Yuki: No, maybe I'm the one who gave birth to this baby. Yuki: So I was happy. Tomosane: Happy? Yuki: Yeah, I was really happy. Yuki: And then that baby cries. Wah, wah. Like that. Yuki: I'm happy, so I smile and laugh along with everyone else in the room. Yuki: That's a blessing on the baby. Yuki: A blessing on life. Yuki: I'm simply happy. I'm thankful that the baby made it safely into the world. Yuki: So the world is full of blessings on life. Yuki: But then... Then I realize. Yuki: 'Oh, that's not quite right.' Yuki: At that moment, I'm the only one who feels fear. I'm surrounded by smiling faces, and I'm the only one who feels fear. Yuki: Because I realize something. I realize that the child is cursing the world. Yuki: He's cursing the fact that he was born. Yuki: Everyone smiles, but I'm frozen in place. I'm alone in a world of blessings. Yuki: At that moment, I think to myself. I have to stop the baby's crying. I have to throttle that newborn infant. I have to end that life right here, right now. Yuki: Because being born is a curse. Yuki: At the very least, the newborn infant thinks that it's a curse. Yuki: So in order to end that cursed life, I have to... Yuki: But of course, I can't do it. Yuki: I can't put my hands around the crying infant's neck and strangle him. Yuki: Why can't I do it? The baby can only curse life, but I can't put an end to that life. Yuki: I have to do it, but I can't. Yuki: And then I cry and cry. Even though no one would actually cry in that situation. Yuki: And soon, the baby's crying. Yuki: I realize the baby's crying. Yuki: I realize that his crying has calmed down. Yuki: And as I listen to him, I'm just thankful for it. Yuki: And then I pray for this happiness in his life. Yuki: Today, I finally realized what that dream means. Tomosane: Really? Yuki: Well, maybe you still don't understand. Yuki: But when I looked up at the stars, I found the answer. Yuki: Why you mustn't end a crying baby's life. Yuki: Why a person would mourn the death of another. Yuki: And why the grief they feel is certainly not misplaced. Yuki: One is right to pray in the darkness. Yuki: And to love the world. Yuki: The love that fills the world. Yuki: That love is prayer. Yuki: The blessing upon the sky that hangs over our heads. Yuki: That is prayer. Yuki: The world is filled with blessings. Yuki: That's why man is able to live in the eternal phase. Yuki: We can do it. Tomosane: Yuki-nee... Yuki: It's so amazing! Confucius said that if he could learn the truth in the morning, he wouldn't mind dying in the evening of that same day. Yuki: Will I die now? Tomosane: Did you learn the truth that Confucius was looking for? Yuki: I'm not sure. Yuki-nee laughed. As if she was convinced that she really would die soon. She blessed her final night. It was several more minutes before I noticed something was strange. I felt that there was someone behind me. Yuki and I both noticed it. Yuki: K-Kotomi-san. Tomosane: Wh-Why are you here? Kotomi: Yuki-chan, you've grown so much. You were just a little girl before. Kotomi: You were about as big as Hasaki is now. You've really grown up. Tomosane: Hey, answer my question! Why are you here?! Yuki: She must've followed us. Kotomi: No, not at all. Yuki: Then why are you here? Kotomi: It was determined that it should be so. Yuki: Determined? Kotomi: Yes. Everything is determined by prophecy. Tomosane: The prophecy? So you do still believe in that prophecy! Kotomi: Prophecy? The law of pre-established harmony is far more than a simple prophecy. Though a bad boy like you wouldn't understand that, Tomosane. Yuki: Wh-What is this prophecy? Tomosane: This woman thinks that the entire history leading up to the world's ultimate destruction has already been determined. Yuki: The world's... destruction. Tomosane: Takuji said that you don't believe in that prophecy anymore! Kotomi: Of course he did. He's a smart child. Unlike you, he isn't picky about how he accomplishes his goals. Tomosane: G-Goals? Yuki: What goal are you talking about? Tomosane: You guys are still trying to kill Hasaki. Yuki: Kill Hasaki-chan? Kotomi: Kill her? What are you talking about? We only want to return her to the place where she belongs. Tomosane: And you're still deluded as ever. Hasaki: Nooo! Tomosane: H-Hasaki?! Yuki: Hey! W-Wait, Tomosane. I ran toward Hasaki's screaming voice. Yuki: T-Tomosane! There's a cliff there, so be careful! It's dark out! Tomosane: Hasaki! I cursed my own decision. I cursed the fact that I believed him for even a second... They hadn't changed at all. Takuji wanted to kill Hasaki and get back the power he thinks she stole from him. Tomosane: Takuji, you bastard! Takuji: You run as fast as ever, Nii-san. Tomosane: You bastard. You told me you didn't believe in that crap anymore. Was that all a lie? Takuji: I told you that? Tomosane: Yeah, you did! You said you weren't trying to get rid of Hasaki anymore! Takuji: Yeah, I said that. What about it? Tomosane: Then what's with that blade? Takuji: This? It's just a knife. Tomosane: Why are you pointing it at Hasaki? Takuji: Hasaki wouldn't listen to me, you know. I didn't want to do this either. Tomosane: Listen to you? What are you trying to make Hasaki do? Takuji: Why are you so angry, Nii-san? Takuji: This was inevitable. Tomosane: It wasn't inevitable! What're you trying to do?! Kotomi: To return her to the sky. Tomosane: Ah! Yuki: K-Kotomi-san... Tomosane: You're still trying to do that? Kotomi: Everything was determined in the moment that God created the world. Kotomi: It is pre-established harmony, determined in the moment of the world's genesis. Tomosane: What harmony?! If that prophecy was right, then your child with the pastor should've been a lone boy! Yuki: With the pastor... Tomosane: You've probably heard rumors about it before, Yuki-nee. Hasaki and Takuji don't have Mamiya blood in their veins. Tomosane: The blood in their veins came from the pastor of the White Lotus Association. Tomosane: You betrayed my dad, you bitch! You had a child with some religious fraud! Tomosane: And you told that child that he was going to become the savior and save the world from destruction! Takuji: That's right. I was supposed to be born as the savior. Takuji: I was supposed to be the savior, born from the union of the White Lotus Association founder's blood and the blood of the long line of shrine maidens in the Sanami family! Tomosane: But that's not what happened! The reality is that you aren't any kind of savior! Takuji: No! That's because the heritage was split between two children rather than just one! Yuki: Th-That's... Tomosane: That's right, Yuki-nee. They believe that Takuji couldn't become the savior because Hasaki was born. Takuji: It's not a belief, it's a clear and evident truth! Takuji: The prophesied birth of a savior when these two powerful bloodlines come together... She prevented the fulfillment of that prophecy. Takuji: The soul which should have been one was instead split in two. Tomosane: That's not true! You aren't the savior! The only reason you were abandoned by the pastor is because he got bored of you. Tomosane: He just made up all that crap about the savior! Tomosane: Our father investigated all of that before he died! The pastor told that crap to every woman he took advantage of! Takuji: Hmph. What would journalists know anyway? They're just peasants, people of low birth. They can only examine things from the outside. Tomosane: But Dad only became a journalist to investigate those lies! Tomosane: So that you would know the truth! Takuji: What truth is that? There is only one truth. Takuji: The world will end. And before that day comes, I must come into my power as the savior on Earth. Tomosane: That day will never come! You're just a commoner! You'd be normal whether Hasaki was born or not! Takuji: How dare you call me a commoner?! Maybe you were the best at all those things in the past, but now I've far surpassed you! Tomosane: Then put down that knife and face me. If you're a man, then put your fists up and fight me! Kotomi: You don't have to listen to him, Takuji. Tomosane: Shut up! Kotomi: Tomosane has Sanami and Mamiya blood in him. Of course, he's not an ordinary person either. Kotomi: But that only means that he is a hurdle for you to overcome as you follow your destiny and become the savior. Kotomi: It's okay if you can't beat him right now. Takuji, you will eventually be the person to save the entire world. Tomosane: That's bullshit! Tomosane: Don't bring Hasaki into your delusional fantasies! Keep that crap to yourself! Tomosane: Give Hasaki back! Takuji: Haa... You really aren't good at making reasoned arguments. Kotomi: You shouldn't listen to the words of the ignorant, Takuji. Takuji: Yes, I know. Hasaki is part of me to begin with. I need only to return her to the sky and regain the power that is rightfully mine. Kotomi: That's right. Everything will be saved once you do. Now, Takuji, return Hasaki's soul to the sky. Kotomi: Once you do, the lost part of your soul will return to you. Takuji: Once I do... "I will become the savior.": "Takuji will become the savior.": Takuji+Kotomi: I will become the savior. Takuji+Kotomi: Takuji will become the savior. Takuji+Kotomi: Takuji+Kotomi: Takuji+Kotomi: Takuji+Kotomi: Takuji+Kotomi: Takuji+Kotomi: Takuji+Kotomi: Takuji+Kotomi: Takuji+Kotomi: Takuji+Kotomi: Takuji+Kotomi: Takuji+Kotomi: Takuji+Kotomi: Takuji+Kotomi: Takuji+Kotomi: Takuji+Kotomi: Takuji+Kotomi: Takuji+Kotomi: Takuji+Kotomi: "That's ridiculous!" I wasn't certain what to do. Perhaps what I did in that moment was reckless. I instantly leaped forward. Right into Takuji. But Yuki-nee ran in a different direction than I did. Takuji: Ah! Hasaki: Huh?! An instant. Such a short amount of time that it would be called a mere instant. He threw Hasaki over the cliff. Hasaki's small body flew over the edge with surprising speed. I panicked and ran toward the cliff. But I couldn't pull her back from over the edge. I lost my balance and fell. My eyes could only follow her over the edge. I followed her falling body. It floated in midair. Then gravity took over, and she was sucked down into the abyss. Tomosane: Ha...sa...ki... It felt like my words were too late. My legs were too slow. I could only lament the fact that I was powerless. And then I saw something unbelievable happen right before my eyes. Yuki-nee caught Hasaki in midair as she fell off the cliff. She didn't reach out with her hand and grab her. Yuki-nee threw her entire body over the edge and caught Hasaki. I saw that happen in a flash. In a mere instant. Tomosane: Hasakiii! Yuki-neee! Both of them disappeared, sucked down into the darkness lying under the cliff's edge. Then came a sound I never wanted to hear. A sound that grates on the ears. An unimaginable, unpleasant sound. Simply a sound no one would want to hear. Tomosane: Hasakiii! Yuki-neeee! Takuji: Heh, hehehe... Hahahahaha! Takuji: I did it. I did it... I finally did it. Takuji: That man pretending to be my father always got in my way before. Takuji: The power I deserved to have is finally coming back to me. The part of my power which was given to Hasaki has finally returned to the sky. Kotomi: You did a good job. Takuji: Yeah, I did it, Mother! I can finally be the savior. Tomosane: The hell are you saying... Takuji: Now I can save the world. Takuji: I can return the world to the sky. Tomosane: You fucking idiot... Kotomi: Now the pre-established harmony can unfold in the way God intended. Everything will proceed according to the prophecy. Tomosane: That's bullshit! Takuji: Nii-san. Takuji: Haa... Maybe you don't understand this because you're just a commoner, but this isn't something to grieve over. Takuji: It's not like I killed Hasaki. I merely returned her to the sky. Kotomi: Yes. I saw her when she ascended into the sky. Tomosane: How stupid are you?! "Aaah... Uwah..." Tomosane: Huh? That voice... Takuji: What? Kotomi: Wha-! Tomosane: Hasaki! Hasaki, is that you?! Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: Hasaki, are you okay?! Hasaki: Yeah, I'm okay, but... But... Tomosane: What's wrong?! Hasaki: Yuki-san... Yuki-san is... There's a bunch of blood, and she's not moving... Tomosane: Yuki-nee? Tomosane: What happened to Yuki-nee? Hasaki: She was protecting me... She was just protecting me... Hasaki: She held onto me the entire time, all the way until the end... Until we fell down here... Hasaki: She hit the cliff over and over, but she... Yuki-san, Yuki-san... Tomosane: Yuki-nee... Tomosane: Don't move! Tomosane: I'm coming! Takuji: Th-That girl... Kotomi: Takuji! You have to do it now! Return Hasaki to the sky before the waning moon rises! Before Tomosane gets to her! Takuji: Y-Yes! Tomosane: I won't let you! Takuji: Huh?! Takuji: Gah! Tomosane: I won't let you! I won't let you! I won't let you! Takuji: Ugh, ah, ugh... Tomosane: What did you do to Yuki-nee... I won't let you kill Hasaki too! Takuji: D-Damn it! Tomosane: Agh! Takuji: Haa, haa... Wow, I can't believe you dodged that. Tomosane: You bastard... Tomosane: I'm going to end it here, Takuji. Takuji: End it? Tomosane: Yeah, I won't hesitate any longer. Until I defeat you utterly and absolutely, you won't give up on those delusions. Tomosane: I will defeat you, right here, once and for all. Takuji: Hehehe... With your bare hands? I have a knife, in case you forgot. Tomosane: That's a perfect handicap to make this fair. That's no problem at all. Takuji: Hmph, I really wonder where that confidence comes from. Tomosane: Unlike you, I've been practicing every day. Takuji: What? You act like you're the only one who's been working hard. Takuji: In the past few years since you disappeared, I've worked myself to death. Takuji: In order to surpass you, in order to make it clear to you that you are nothing more than a hurdle for me to overcome. Tomosane: And this is the result of all your hard work? Takuji: Yes, exactly. But we aren't done yet. I'll return you to the sky, and then Hasaki will follow suit. Takuji: And then I will become the savior. Tomosane: No, you won't! Takuji: I will! I'm different from you! I am the chosen one! Tomosane: What's different?! You're just some bastard that was born when some other man played around with your mom! Takuji: Don't say that! Tomosane: Ugh! My cheek burned. When I touched it, I could feel that it'd been split open. It wasn't near a fatal wound, though. I took my stance to defend myself against the next attack. But... Takuji: Wh-What is this... Tomosane: ...Huh? Takuji: What is this?! Tomosane: T-Takuji... Takuji: Wh-Whoa. Stop screwing around. What's happening? I didn't have a clue what was happening either. The simple reality was that the knife previously in Takuji's hand was now plunged deep into his chest. Tomosane: T-Takuji, you... Takuji: What's happening? I was supposed to become the savior and save the world... Tomosane: Takuji! I tried to pull the knife out of him. Kotomi: S-Stop! I heard someone behind me, telling me to stop, but that didn't make me hesitate for even a moment. I pulled the knife out of Takuji's chest. I knew right away that I had done the worst thing possible in that situation. No, either way, such a deep wound out in the mountains would inevitably be fatal. But if I hadn't pulled the knife out, he would've had more time to live. But I did it... I pulled it out. Takuji: Wh-What? What's happening... Suddenly... everything's going white... Tomosane: Takuji! Hold yourself together! Takuji: What? Nii-san... You ran away into the white... That's a dirty trick... Tomosane: Takuji! Hey! Takuji: Huh? That's weird... Why won't my body move... all of a sudden? Tomosane: Hold on! Don't leave me now! Takuji: Huh? What are you doing, Nii-san? Takuji: Did I... lose... Have I lost? Tomosane: Who cares about losing?! Takuji! Hold on, please! Takuji: I see... I lost... That's why my body is getting cold... I can't move... Takuji: Hehehe... But I won't die... I'll never die... Takuji: Because my mother comes from a long line of shrine maidens capable of raising the dead... So I'll come back... Tomosane: Takuji! Takuji: Yes, I'll absolutely... never die... Takuji: I'll survive... no matter what it takes... Tomosane: Yeah, I understand. Anyway, just don't go to sleep! I tore off my own shirt and tried to wrap it around Takuji's chest. But the flow of blood didn't slow down at all. Tomosane: Takuji! Hold on, please! Takuji: I'm... going to be... fine... Don't worry... Takuji: Nothing... to worry... about... Takuji: I'll... never die... Tomosane: Yeah, you won't die! You're going to be fine! Takuji: That's... right... Takuji: Even if... my body... breaks... Tomosane: Takuji. Takuji: I can just use yours, Nii-san. Tomosane: Wha-! Tomosane: T-Takuji... Takuji: I won't die... I won't... Takuji's fingers pressed into my temple like nails. It was beyond mere pain. Tomosane: ...A-Ack! H-How can he be... so strong... Kotomi: Destroy him, just like that. Tomosane: D-Destroy? Kotomi: Yes. Takuji, you can do it. Destroy his brain. Do it. Tomosane: Guh, guhaaa. His eyes narrowed to slits as he stared into mine. Takuji: I will... take your brain... Tomosane: Guh... Ghaa... I couldn't tell what was real and what wasn't. Tomosane: Ah, ahghaa... Takuji's fingertips broke through my skull. That's impossible. A human doesn't have nearly enough strength to break a person's skull like that. This must be an illusion. This can't be reality. As a trained fighter, I knew that better than anyone. The fact that it was impossible. And yet... My consciousness started to waver. I couldn't hold myself in this world. Takuji: I'll take your body... Tomosane Nii-san... Takuji: So I guess this is... Takuji: FAREWELL.
It was a familiar scene. More familiar than any I had seen before. A scene I knew all too well. Yuki: Does this scene seem more fitting? Tomosane: Well, yeah. Until now, I'd forgotten what had happened in the village. Yuki: That's right. Tomosane: After that, did I become Mamiya Takuji? Yuki: Who knows? At the very least, you still looked like yourself. Tomosane: But I lived my life as Mamiya Takuji. Yuki: According to the doctors at the hospital, the diagnosis was PTSD: post-traumatic stress disorder. Tomosane: But the villagers believed it was Mamiya Takuji's curse. In other words, the result of Sanami Kotomi's powers. Yuki: Kotomi-san was rumored to have the power to bring back the dead, after all. Tomosane: So what actually happened, then? Yuki: What actually happened? How would I know that? It's not like you have any proof that you weren't possessed by Mamiya Takuji. Yuki: You also can't deny the hypothesis that he might've been another personality conjured up by your PTSD. Yuki: Both explanations seem to fit. Yuki: But the reality is that, after that moment, you ceased to consider yourself to be 'Mamiya Tomosane' and instead called yourself 'Mamiya Takuji.' Tomosane: I can't deny that. Tomosane: So where are we? Yuki: Where do you think? Tomosane: The roof... Building C, maybe? Yuki: Correct. Tomosane: I see. Then that dream I just had was all my memories of the past... Is that it? Yuki: Yeah, that's it. Tomosane: I didn't die? Yuki: If you were dead, you wouldn't be standing here. This isn't heaven, and it's definitely not hell either. Tomosane: But this isn't the real Building C either. Did you make this place? Yuki: Don't ask me. I'm not sure myself. Yuki: All I know for sure is that the most important thing is what's not here. Do you know what I mean? Tomosane: What's not here? Tomosane: Huh?! Tomosane: Just now... Yuki: That's right. There's something you need to do. Do you remember what it was? Tomosane: I... I was... Yuki: Go to her, Tomosane. Go protect Hasaki-chan, no matter what happens. Tomosane: That's right. I have to protect Hasaki, no matter what. Yuki: Yeah. That's a good answer. Tomosane: That's not correct, is it? That dream just now, and my memories of the past... Was that all your doing, Yuki-nee? Yuki: Yuki-nee... It makes me really happy to hear you call me that again. Really happy. Tomosane: What's wrong, Yuki-nee? She smiled as tears flowed from her eyes. Yuki: It's just... You've really grown up, Tomosane. Yuki: You're totally different from before. Look. She grabbed my arm. Yuki: Your arms were so skinny before, but now they're way bigger than mine. Tomosane: Yeah, of course. A lot of time has passed since then. Yuki: You're the same age I used to be back then, Tomosane. Tomosane: Am I really? Yuki: Yeah, you are. You didn't really pay attention to me, so maybe you don't remember. Tomosane: To a little boy, all adults just look like adults. Yuki: Ahahaha... Maybe you're right. Tomosane: Yeah, back then I never knew your hands were so small. Yuki: Ahaha... Are my hands that small? Tomosane: Yeah, I can't believe they're so small. Your entire hand fits here in my palm. Tomosane: Back when I was a kid, I always thought you were so big. Yuki: But my chest is still pretty big. Tomosane: But it's not nearly as wide as my chest. Your body is way smaller than mine, too. Yuki: You're still pretty small for a boy, you know. Tomosane: I'm still bigger than you. Yuki: I guess so. You're a lot bigger than I am, Tomosane. Tomosane: Did you always know this? Yuki: Know what? Tomosane: About our past. Yuki: No. Unfortunately, it was quite a long time before I figured everything out. Yuki: I didn't know until I learned how to look into this body's subconscious. Tomosane: With those lucid dreams, huh? Yuki: That's right. Tomosane: Which means this is just a lucid dream modeled after the Building C roof. Yuki: Yep. Tomosane: And what I just saw... Those were my memories of the past. Yuki: Yes. You sealed those memories away because they were too painful. Tomosane: I'm a really weak person, huh? Yuki: That's not true. It might've actually been the curse, too. Tomosane: Even then, that would mean I lost to that curse. Yuki: What are you talking about? When did you lose? Tomosane: I've done nothing but lose. Tomosane: Even on that day, you were the one who saved Hasaki. Tomosane: I promised to protect Hasaki, but I couldn't protect her at all. Tomosane: And then Takuji took control of me. Yuki: But you managed to stand up to Takuji, despite all of that. Tomosane: That's right. I stood up to him, and I lost. Tomosane: How disgraceful. Yuki: What are you talking about? Isn't that okay? Tomosane: What? Of course it's not okay. Yuki: This is all just a performance, right? Tomosane: A performance? Yuki: Yeah, of course. Isn't this the perfect time for our hero to make his dramatic entrance on stage? Tomosane: Hero? Yuki: Weren't you a hero? A shapeshifting hero, too. Yuki: Hasaki had to go through some tough times * but couldn't this all be a nice way of spicing up the happy days you two have ahead of you?"* Tomosane: Yuki-nee... Yuki: You made a promise to Hasaki. Yuki: On the beach that day. Yuki: If Takuji is the savior, then I'm the hero. Yuki: I'll stand up to protect you any time you're in trouble. Yuki: When you're in trouble, you can just think of it as a performance. Yuki: Hasaki believed you until the very end. Yuki: Believed that you were her hero. Tomosane: Yuki-nee... Yuki: And of course, so do I. Yuki: Tomosane, you haven't actually lost until it's all over. Yuki: No matter what happens, you won't lose. Yuki: Because that's what a hero is, right? Yuki: I believe in you too. Yuki: You're the hero, Tomosane. You're the one who has to save the day in the end. Tomosane: What are you talking about? I already failed to protect you, Yuki-nee. Yuki: You dummy. You're Hasaki-chan's hero, not mine. Tomosane: But you just said you believed in me, too. Yuki: I do believe in you. Yuki-nee gave me a big grin. But it was as if she was still fighting back her tears. Yuki: I'll take him with me so you can keep moving forward. Tomosane: Take who? Yuki: Takuji-kun. I'll take that crazy boy with me. Yuki: You just need to keep moving forward right now. Tomosane: Forward? Yuki: Yeah, that's right. Forward from here. Yuki: Beyond the hill where the sunflowers bloom. Yuki: Beyond that hill she could never climb. Yuki: You have to go forward and find Hasaki-chan again. Tomosane: That hill... Yuki: Come on, Tomosane. You can do it. Yuki: This is our farewell. Tomosane: Farewell? Yuki: That's right. Farewell. This is as far as I can go. Yuki: Under this sky, this is as far as I can walk beside you. Yuki: Under this great, great sky, we walked this far together, but now it's over. Yuki: From here on, I won't be the one walking by your side. Yuki: I'm not the one who will walk the same road as you. Yuki: Now go, hero. Yuki: You are my... hero. Yuki: And also... Yuki: Hasaki-chan's superhero! Yuki: This is our farewell. Tomosane: Farewell? Yuki: That's right. This is farewell for now. Yuki: I have to help him get there. Tomosane: Yuki-nee... Yuki: Don't make that face, Tomosane. Yuki: Look... You can feel my presence, right? Yuki-nee held my hand tightly. Her hand was very small and soft. Yuki: I will always be here, right next to you. Yuki: I have to go, but even then, I'll still be right here by your side, Tomosane. Yuki-nee slowly let go of my hand. And then, she took a step back and shouted. Yuki: Now, go forward! Yuki: You're the hero, so you have to protect the heroine in the finale! Yuki: Isn't that right, Tomosane? Tomosane: Huh?! Tomosane: Just now... Yuki: You're the Tomosane that Hasaki-chan always believed in. The one I always believed in. Yuki: You'll win. Yuki: It's your destiny. Hasaki: Nii-san! Tomosane: H-Hasaki?! Hasaki had taken hold of my leg just as I jumped from the rooftop. But Hasaki's weak body was being slowly pulled over the edge. Tomosane: Hasaki! Let go! Hasaki: Huh? Tomosane: Are you stupid?! Let go, right now! Hasaki's face turned pale. Hasaki: Ah, you sound like... Tomosane: Hurry up! At this rate, you're gonna fall too! Let go! Hasaki: T-Tomo Nii-san... Tomo Nii-san... You're alive. You didn't disappear. I... I! Hasaki lost her footing for a split second. Her body slipped further over the edge of the roof." And yet... Hasaki: I'm so glad... I'm so glad... I thought you had disappear forever, so I... I... Tomosane: I understand! Just let go! Let me go! Hasaki: ...No... Big tears welled up in Hasaki's eyes. Hasaki tried to say something through her tears, but it wouldn't come out. She cried as her strength slowly began to fail her. Her body was slowly pulled over the edge. Nevertheless, she didn't loosen her grip on my leg at all. She did the complete opposite. Her tiny hands took a stronger hold on my body so that she wouldn't lose me. Tomosane: What are you doing, Hasaki?! Hasaki: I won't... She raised her head and looked me in the eyes. I thought she was despairing for me, but when she looked up I saw a smile on her tear-stained face. Tomosane: Wh-What are you saying? Hasaki: I said I won't let you go. Tomosane: Are you dumb?! At this rate, you'll fall too! Hasaki: That doesn't matter! Tomosane: It does matter! I'm here to protect you! Hasaki: I don't care about that! I don't care! Tomosane: H-Hasaki... I had never seen Hasaki raise her voice like that before. She never let her emotions show like this. She never expressed her own will like this before. Hasaki: I'm... I'm not just someone to be protected. I... I love you, Tomo Nii-san! Hasaki: I was so sad because I thought you'd died. I thought there was no reason to keep living. Hasaki: So I never really cared about saving Takuji Nii-san, because I thought he had killed you. Hasaki: But... But... Takuji Nii-san... Takuji Nii-san... He looked just like you... Hasaki: So I wanted to save him! Hasaki: That's it... But why? Hasaki: Why can't I save you, Tomo Nii-san? Why am I just here to be protected? Hasaki: If you're still alive, Tomo Nii-san... If you're still there, then I'll never let go! Hasaki: Never! Never! I won't let you go, even when I'm dead! Tomosane: You dummy! Tomosane: It's obvious why you can't save me! Tomosane: I'm here to protect you! Tomosane: I'm the hero! I'm only here to protect you! Hasaki: Ah! It felt like I was floating. It was as if the air had suddenly grown colder. Sand and dust floated in the blue sky, dancing in the moonlight. I felt myself transported from solid ground to a world of vertical descent. Hasaki and I were sucked down. I saw a silhouette of Hasaki's body backlit by the bright blue moon. We were utterly detached from the ground. It was like we were flying in midair. I heard sirens in the distance. Sirens echoing in the sparkling azure sky. I looked up at the infinite sky as I fell. So that I wouldn't lose sight of Hasaki above me. The moon laughed. God laughed. At the comical sight below. At this comedy and this tragedy. The stars went round. Like they were dancing. The night sky ridiculed us. God ridiculed us. As if an innocent child had knocked the plate of heaven to the ground. The world became empty. But I said this. Tomosane: Eat shit! God doesn't matter. Fate doesn't matter. I'm Tomosane. Mamiya Tomosane. I made a promise. A promise to protect Hasaki. A promise to be Hasaki's hero. So I won't falter. I won't back down, no matter who I'm facing. If I meet God in heaven, then I'll punch him right in the nose. If I meet Satan in hell, then I'll punch him right in the nose. I'll break fate's chains with my own two hands. The great comedy and tragedy of life can eat shit for all I care! Tomosane: Hasaki! I reached out with all my might. Hasaki: ... There was no answer. No, I don't know if she even heard me. It was such a short period of time before we hit the ground that I don't know if my words ever reached her. But I yelled out to her. Hasaki! The cool air of the night suddenly grew hot. The light of the moon dimmed. The dancing stars ceased to frolick and instead looked on in silence. I ran on thin air. I fought against God's will and ran. Then my hand reached Hasaki. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san! Freefall. The unavoidable fate which we call gravity finally sucked us down to Earth. For men, who cannot fly through the air... The only choice is to fall to Earth. But I refused. There was no despair in that moment. The only choice I had was to do what I had to do. What I had to do in that very moment. To live. And what I had to do to live tomorrow. Gravity tried to kill us both. It tried to slam us into the ground and end it all. Tomosane: Aaaahhh! I struggled in the air. It was futile. Man is powerless in the air. There's no fighting it. There's nothing man can do to fight gravity. And yet I struggled in the air. The powerless struggling before a colossal foe. I didn't care if I looked pathetic. I would do anything, pathetic or otherwise, if only to live. Tomosane: Aaagh! As I kicked out my leg, it broke through the glass on the building. Tomosane: Gah! The glass broke, and I crashed into the building's eaves. Agony raced through my breaking body. But I held onto Hasaki. Pain was irrelevant. I held Hasaki to my chest. I wasn't going to let anyone or anything hurt her. The eaves didn't catch us; they merely threw us into the air once again. Another impact, just like the last. But I could no longer see what I was even crashing into. I had lost all sense of balance or direction, falling and colliding with whatever was in my way as I fell from the school building. That's probably what happened. An untold number of impacts left my ears ringing. It was a disturbing sound. There was no pain. There was no light. The only thing I could feel was Hasaki's warmth in my arms. The moon laughed. The moon laughed at me. The moon laughed at me, as if it hadn't just seen me take that fall. As if it knew nothing of the impure things in this world. As if it was ignorant of the filthy, the spoiled, the rotten things on Earth. It simply bathed us with its beautiful light. And it laughed at the world, dyed with blue moonlight, underneath it. The moon laughed. Underneath that laughing moon, I could only fall and get beaten up by the unceasing blows of gravity. I fell, powerless to do anything else. At the end, the moon came into view again. But it wasn't laughing at me with scorn. It looked truly sad. As if it was crying. Tomosane: You bastard... Tomosane: So you weren't laughing at me... Tomosane: You cried as you watched me fall... My weak, broken voice barely escaped my throat. And I thought that I could still speak. I'm not sure if I was actually making any sound, though. Now that I think back on it, it was perfectly silent in that moment. The sound of the wind I'd heard before. The sound of the sirens. The sound of crashing into the building time and time again. All of those sounds had disappeared from the world. The silence was unbroken. And I thought to myself about how bad it was. In my life up until that moment, I'd never experienced such a profound silence. It was an impossible silence. I thought it was the end. I thought I was done for. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san! Tomosane: ... Tomosane: Hasaki... Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san... Tomo Nii-san... Tomosane: Hahaha... You're safe... Hasaki: Yeah. You protected me, so I'm safe. Tomosane: I broke my promise so many times. I'm glad I was able to keep it this time. Hasaki: Yeah. Thank you, Tomo Nii-san. Tomosane: Then... can this be the end? Hasaki: You liar. Tomosane: Liar? Hasaki: Are you trying to break your promise again? Tomosane: Promise? Hasaki: That's right. You promised. Hasaki: This summer, you said we were going back to the village. Tomosane: The village... Hasaki: That's right, Sawaimura. We were going to go together. Hasaki: And we were going to climb that hill one more time together. Hasaki: We were going to see the blooming sunflowers again together. Tomosane: That hill, huh... Hasaki: Yeah, that hill I could never climb when I was younger. Hasaki: The hill where you found me on the day Dad died. Tomosane: That hill... Hasaki: Yeah. Tomosane: That's... not a promise a hero should make... Hasaki: But a promise is a promise! A promise is a promise... Hasaki usually never asks for anything from me. But still, I was so tired. I walked so far to get here. So now... Yuki-nee...
To pray is to think about the meaning of life. Ludwig Josef Johann Wittgenstein June 11, 1916 Kimura: Do we really have to hike up this mountain? Aren't there buses that go to the village? Master: Jeez, what are you complaining for now? It's not that far. No one asked you to come, anyway. Kimura: Will Hasaki be okay walking so far? Hasaki: I'm just fine. A summer day. We walked along the side of the road. The rays of a summer sun pierced us. A blue sky stretched overhead. Great white clouds dotted the sky. The trees were full of green. We walked through just such a scene. Every time the wind blew, I smelled the wild grass. The babbling of a brook. The smell of earth under our feet. My father was born in this town. It was called Sawaimura. I know a lot about this village. For instance, I know the autumn breeze. The season when the valleys of Sawaimura are dyed with a beautiful scarlet sunset. When I first saw the trees bathed in scarlet, I was at a loss for words. When they saw that, Tomo Nii-san and Yuki-san laughed at me. For instance, I know the chill of winter. The winters here are colder than in Tokyo. The clouds floating in from the ocean sprinkle endless snowflakes upon the village. During the winter, all the children romp through a snowy wonderland. Throwing snowballs, building snowmen, and even constructing little igloos. For a child, it was heaven on Earth. That's one of the best memories I have of my childhood. For instance, I know the greening spring. The spring in Sawaimura brings change to every pastoral landscape. The white land is suddenly alive with green. The cherry blossoms fall upon yesterday's snows. The one season when the cherry blossoms are free to dance. The season where we see life in all its vigor. And the budding of new, green leaves on all the trees. I like the cherry blossoms, but I love to watch the green buds upon the zelkova's branches. The sun filtering through an early spring canopy is perhaps more precious than any of the world's treasures. Then, when the verdant green of the zelkova gradually deepens into a lusher shade... Summer comes. The summer in Sawaimura is hot and muggy. The beams of the sun seem to illuminate the entire world. But the shade under a tree's boughs can be far cooler than any shelter from the sun in Tokyo. Sawaimura is just such a village. Kimura: So... why did we come all the way out here again? Kimura: I understand that he finally got out on bail and all, but this whole trip is just a pain in the butt if you ask me. I was finally starting to enjoy the atmosphere out here in the mountains when Kimura-san spoiled the mood with his complaints. Hasaki: You're ruining the atmosphere. Kimura: Huh? How am I doing that? Master: We're finally out here in the country, and all you do is complain. It's not like we asked you to come, either. You just decided to tag along. Kimura: Yeah, I guess so... But this is my job, you know? Master: Oh, come on. We already know that he's not going to be convicted. There's no way you're going to find any dirt to base a good article on. Kimura: Sure, but there are still a lot of people out there that are interested in what happened. Master: You don't get it, do you? If you write about what happened in this village, I'll kill you. Kimura: Eek! Master: This is a peaceful village. Don't disturb the peace. Kimura: Yes, sir. As you say. The end of summer. It was a month after that happened. For some reason, it was decided that a ceremony would be held in honor of my father. That's why we were walking along this same familiar road. The same road where we walked next to our father. I walked this same road the first time I came to Sawaimura with my father. Hasaki: Ah! The promised place. That's how I thought of it back then. Even now, this place makes my heart race. Last time, I was here with my father. Even then, my heart was racing. It was the first time I met my Nii-san. I heard that we lived together three years before that, but I was too young to remember. I didn't know what kind of person he was. My heart raced with anticipation. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san! Tomosane: Hasaki. The person who turned to look at me was... my brother. It was just like the first time we met. He looked scary, but he was actually an incredibly kind brother. Hasaki: Tomo Nii-san, did we make you wait? Tomosane: Yeah, I've been standing here for ages. Jeez, look at the time. Master: Wow. Why do you have an alarm clock with you? Tomosane: The people in this village don't pay much attention to the time, and it's not like I own a wristwatch. Kimura: Huh? What about your cellphone? Tomosane: Are you stupid? There's no way I'd get a signal out here. Kimura: What did you say?! Kimura: Th-That's scary. Wh-What if there was an emergency and someone got hurt? Master: I told you, no one asked you to come. Go home if you want. Tomosane: Yeah, why did you come, Kimura-san? Kimura: I'm investigating. Tomosane: Oh, are you now? You're such a good little reporter. Just so you know, I'll kill you if you write an article about what happened in this village. Kimura: Eek! Kimura: No! Don't make fun of my D3 like that! Master: Jeez, this guy really gets on my nerves. Kimura: So you really did get out on bail. Tomosane: They did say that they wanted to help me blend into society again some day. Kimura: And there was a lot of evidence that you really did have multiple personalities. Kimura: And you even got stabbed while you were trying to stop that accident from happening. Tomosane: I'm surprised they didn't want to put me in an institution or something, though. Kimura: But... Mamiya Takuji-kun is gone now. Tomosane: That's right. Mamiya Takuji's personality never surfaced again after that day. Or rather, no one else's personality ever took control of my body again. From the time I wake up in the morning until the time I sleep at night, I live my life normally, without a hint of discontinuity. All the symptoms of dissociative identity disorder were completely cured. Kimura: Well, Mamiya Takuji-kun accomplished his objective. He'll never appear again. Master: Let's get going. We have to walk to the Mamiya house. Kimura: Huh? We have to walk more? Hasaki: Of course we do. You should really go home, Kimura-san. Kimura: Don't say that. You're being too cold. Tomosane: I'm back. Yuki: Oh, Tomosane. You're early. Hasaki: Ah... Yuki-san, right? Yuki: Yeah. It's me, Yuki-nee. It's been a while, Hasaki-chan. Master: ... Kimura: Huh? Wh-What's wrong? Let's go inside already. Master: Yeah... When I was released, I was entrusted to this village. I'm sure that part of it was just because they didn't want the mass media to harass me, but I'm also certain that's not the only reason why the doctors decided this village would be the best place for me. So now I have to travel to the nearest city once a week to see a psychologist. Yuki: So how did the mountain road here treat you after all this time? Hasaki: How was it for you, Yuki-san? Yuki: I was born in this village, so I don't really care one way or another. Tomosane: What are you talking about? Earlier you were making a fuss because there's no Internet out here. Yuki: But how am I supposed to look stuff up in Uncy*pedia without the Internet? There's so much stuff I don't know! Tomosane: Who the hell uses Uncypedia to do research in the first place? At least use Wpedia to do it. Yuki: Don't underestimate the power of Uncypedia! Tomosane: I don't know about that. Hasaki: We all got here pretty early, though. Yuki: Yeah, I didn't expect you guys till evening. Tomosane: What? You guys were still fifteen minutes late, and I was the one waiting up on you guys. The end of summer.* Even at the end of summer, the sun shone high in the sky. Cumulonimbi gathered strength far off in the distance. Those clouds would probably rain torrents of water later. The season was coming to an end. The day of Dad's death had finally come. It had been eight years since that day. And so we all returned to that same village. Sawaimura. It's the place where Hasaki and I met, and the place where I met Yuki and Master as well. Well, I was living with Hasaki for a while before, but she was just a baby, so she didn't remember me. Tomorrow they would hold a ceremony for my father. Though this year wasn't actually a notable anniversary of his death. The closest would be the tenth anniversary, but it still hadn't been quite ten years. But our grandmother who still lives here said that it was normal to hold a ceremony for the 7th anniversary of a death in the Buddhist tradition. I told her that it'd actually been eight years since he died, of course. I think that this ceremony was really being held for my sake. It had been a long time since I came back to this village. I don't care about those stuffy Buddhist anniversary traditions, but I'm sure a lot of my old acquaintances would come back to the village if we held an event. That's probably why they were doing it. A monk came to see us at the temple. He recited some kind of sutra. I listened to the boring sutra. "Will he just get on with it already..." That's all I was thinking. I appreciated all the stuff that my grandmother was doing for me, but it was honestly just a pain. I looked out the window. The bright rays of the sun still rained down on the land outside. Yuki: The sky is blue today. Tomosane: Don't talk while the monk is reciting the sutras. Yuki: Don't you like the blue sky? Tomosane: You were the one who said you hated it. Yuki: What do you mean? I told you that I really like blue skies after that. Tomosane: Yeah, but that's only because it's easier to light a cigarette when the weather is good. Yuki: What, is that not a good enough reason for you? Hasaki: Didn't you hate blue skies, Yuki-san? Yuki: Well, I mean, yeah. Don't you think the sky is really scary? Hasaki: The sky is scary... Yuki: Because I fell from the sky once. Hasaki: Oh, now that you mention it, I fell twice. Yuki: But you're still alive, right? Yuki: The first time it was me, and the second time, it was Tomosane who protected you. Tomosane: Yeah, but I actually survived doing it. Yuki: Ahahaha. That's because you're a hero. Heroes don't die. Tomosane: Heroes don't die, huh? Yuki: When the ceremony is over, let's go see the sunflowers again. Hasaki: Oh, that sounds good. Yuki: Let's go! Tomosane: Hasaki, will you be okay? It's a long walk. Hasaki: Of course I'll be okay. I climbed that hill when I was really little. Tomosane: But you were used to living out in the sticks. Now you're used to the city. Yuki: If she can't walk anymore, then you can just carry her. There's no problem. Tomosane: Don't decide that for me! Yuki: What's wrong? Aren't you the hero here? Tomosane: Why does a hero have to act like a servant now?! Hasaki: Whoa, it's amazing. Tomosane: There are so many sunflowers. Yuki: This is the first time I've seen them this year too. Hasaki: Really? Yuki: Yeah. Yuki: I knew you were coming, so the two of us decided we wanted to see them together with you. Decided... We didn't really make a decision like that, but we had a sort of unspoken agreement. But if we were going to go see them, there's no reason why we wouldn't wait for Hasaki to be with us. This hill is one of those places. Hasaki: I didn't know the sunflowers were so big. Yuki: Yeah, they're huge. Hasaki: Ahaha. I've grown a lot since last time, so I thought they would look way smaller. Yuki: Either way, sunflowers are still taller than a person. You're closer to the flower now, so they probably look even bigger than before. Hasaki: Oh, that's right. I was so small that I could barely see the tops of them. Yuki: That's probably it. And besides that, there are things in the world that are always going to be bigger than you, no matter how much you grow. Hasaki: Yeah, the sunflowers will always, always be big. Yuki: What's wrong? You haven't said anything in a while. Tomosane: Y-Yeah... Yuki: What? You think the sunflowers are still just depressing? You always said they look like they're reaching out to the dead. Tomosane: No, I don't really think that anymore. Yuki: Oh, well that's good. Tomosane: You think? Yuki: Well, yeah. They don't need to face toward the dead anymore. Tomosane: So there are no flowers that reach out to the dead now... Yuki: That's right. Hasaki: Come on, let's keep going! Yuki: Yeah! We climbed up that same hilly road. Hasaki laughed and played as we walked. When she was young, it was really hard for her to climb this hill. Even that foggy hilltop in the distance, which she thought she could never reach, * was now a pleasant walk to the top.* That was a scene which changed with the passing of time. Hasaki: Wow! Hasaki: It's so pretty! Hasaki: Wow, wow, I can't believe how big the sky is! Yuki: So this is what it looks like from the top of the hill. Tomosane: Yeah. Even in my memory, the view from the hill was always beautiful. But at that moment, it was even more beautiful than I remembered. It was a perfectly ordinary landscape. It was a perfectly ordinary world. This scene will probably never, ever change. And it was very beautiful. Tomosane: Yuki. Yuki: Hm? Tomosane: How long do you have? Yuki: What do you mean? Tomosane: If only you could be here forever. But we both know that you can't. Yuki: ... Yuki: The sky is so pretty. Tomosane: Yeah. Yuki: If this was some eroge, then you'd find out that I was just a vengeful spirit, and the real Yuki-san was actually living her life without a clue about what was happening. Tomosane: But you have a grave and everything. Yuki: Yeah, it's been quite a while since my body was cremated and turned into ash. The night that I came to Sawaimura... Yuki came back to me. But unlike before, her personality didn't take the place of mine. She just hung around in my vicinity, like some kind of ghost. Tomosane: Are you a ghost? Yuki: Who knows? Maybe I'm just proof that your brain still isn't working like it should. Tomosane: Then you're a hallucination? Yuki: Don't you think so? Yuki: Because if I'm not, then... Tomosane: If not, then what? Hasaki: Yuki-san, there are clovers over here! Yuki: Seriously?! Then there might be a four-leaf clover! A giggling Yuki ran over to Hasaki. A hallucination... If she was a hallucination, then the fact that Hasaki could see her too means that... I looked up at the blue sky. The sky is the most distant world that a human can ever lay eyes upon. You could even say the distance separating us from that world is infinite. And that's what we have hanging above us at all times, spread over our heads. If you think about it, that's really bizarre. We live on the ground, surrounded by finite things. Small things. Things which change as time passes. Those are the things we're surrounded by as we live out our lives. We live out our normal lives surrounded by those things. But directly above us, there's something that none of us can ever reach. None of us can ever know where that limit even lies. The infinite is always spread over our heads. Hanging above this common scene, there is an infinite vastness which is always present. That's just the world we live in. Tomosane: It is not how things are in the world that is mystical, but that it exists. Yuki: Feeling the world as a limited whole―it is this that is mystical... Right? Tomosane: Yeah, that's it. Tomosane: How's your search for a four-leaf clover going? Hasaki: I can't find any at all. Tomosane: Is that so? The two of them were trying with all their might to find a four-leaf clover. Why do they need to find something like that? I remember searching for four-leaf clovers when I was a child. But I never managed to find one. A four-leaf clover... For some reason, that word made me recall the image of a golden angel in my memory. One golden angel is worth a prize toy. By the way, you can get a prize for five silver angels too. It's just that in my mind, the four-leaf clover that I could never find is like one of those rare golden angels, since you could trade just one golden angel for a prize. When I told Hasaki about it, she said... Hasaki: I've never seen a gold angel, but the silver ones aren't that hard to get. I've seen a bunch of those. Then you've gotten the prize before? Hasaki: Ahahaha. I collected four, but I could never get the last one. Pretty soon, I forgot about it. Hasaki: Then I remembered when I finally found another one. 'Oh, I had four of these before.' She had four at one point, but she lost them somewhere. Even though she carefully collected them for so long, eventually she lost interest and forgot about them. When she finally found the last one, she remembered that she'd been collecting them. Hasaki: Hmm... I can't find any four-leaf clovers. If you can't find it, then you need to keep looking. You can just keep looking until you find it. But once you do find it... If Yuki or Hasaki really did find that lucky four-leaf clover here on the hill, then... Well... That's why it's probably better that she didn't find that last angel. It's better to have one last something to look for. ......... ...... ... Yuki: Ah! Found one! Yuki yelled out. Yuki: I found you, my lucky four-leaf clover! Hasaki: Oh, you really did. Yuki plucked the four-leaf clover. The symbol of good luck. The golden angel that is worth a prize all on its own. Yuki laughed as she held the clover up to the sky. Yuki: Ahaha, I didn't think I would actually find one. Yuki: These aren't as rare as I thought they were. Tomosane: That's because you guys were looking for it. Yuki: But seeing clovers makes me want to find one. Tomosane: Really? It makes you want to find one? Yuki: Yeah. If there's a plant that'll bring people happiness, then they'll go look for it. Yuki: That's just what people do. Tomosane: But once you find that plant... Yuki: That's right. Once you find it, the game is over. Tomosane: Why is that? Yuki: Because... a game can only be called a game if it has an end. Tomosane: There doesn't have to be. Yuki: There does. Once the sun goes down and the bell rings, telling you to go home, then you have to leave. Yuki: It's telling you that playtime is over. Tomosane: Then why don't you just destroy the bell? Yuki: That's crazy. That's terrorism you're talking about. Yuki: Without the bell, evening would turn into night, and pretty soon you wouldn't be able to play, either way. Yuki: In the darkness, you can't step on each other's shadows, you can't play in the sand, and you can't kick the can. Yuki: When the sun goes down, it has to end. Yuki: It has to end. Tomosane: Yuki! Hasaki: Yuki-san... Yuki: You two can be happy in the future, together. Tomosane: Stop messing around. Don't say something so selfish. Yuki: Is it selfish? Tomosane: Of course it is. You're just going to disappear. Someone who selfishly disappears doesn't have the right to say that. Yuki: Someone who selfishly disappears? You disappeared on us for a long time too, didn't you? Tomosane: But I came back after it all. I came back to you guys. Yuki: I told you, that's because you're the hero. That's the hero's special privilege. Yuki: I'm not the hero, so now... Yuki: Here, look. Yuki: The sun is already setting. Yuki: Playtime is over. Tomosane: Yuki, you're... Yuki: Playtime is over. Yuki: Oh, it's almost time. Yuki closed her eyes. I could do nothing as I watched her. Yuki had walked alongside me every day till now. Yuki had walked alongside me as we climbed this hill. Once I left...& Once I left this hill, it would be over... Yuki: Aren't you getting hungry yet? Tomosane: Huh? Hasaki: Yeah, I'm really hungry. Yuki: Let's put an end to playtime so we can go home and eat. Hasaki: Yeah! Tomosane: Huh? Um... Yuki? Yuki: What is it, Tomosane? Tomosane: Um, are you coming home with us? Yuki: What do you mean? Of course I am. Tomosane: Besides, do you even get hungry? Yuki: There's a reason that people leave food on a dead person's grave, you know. Tomosane: Oh, uh, that's not what I'm talking about. Yuki: Come on, let's get home. Hasaki: Yeah, let's go! Yuki started running. Hasaki chased after her. I was a little shocked, but I walked after them anyway. The three of us started to walk down the hill. We walked down this hill which is closer to the sky than anywhere else. The three of us walked down the hill together. Yuki: Jeez, you're so slow, Tomosane! Come on, hurry up! Hasaki: Ah, you can't do that! Yuki-san, don't hug him so much! He's mine! Yuki: Oh? You can tell? Hasaki: I can tell. Did you think I couldn't see you? Yuki: Oh, really? You can see me? Hasaki: Of course I can. I do have Sanami blood in my veins too. Yuki: You sound like you're into the occult. Hasaki: I don't care about that occult stuff! And Yuki-san, stop touching him with your chest! Tomosane: Hasaki, you're doing the same thing! Hasaki: I'm your sister, so it doesn't matter! Yuki: Oh, come on, Hasaki-chan. You shouldn't monopolize him. Hasaki: I'm not monopolizing him or anything! Hasaki: You're just some kind of curse on him or something, Yuki-san. If you get too close to him, he might get sick or worse! Yuki: Whoa, that's too cruel! Don't discriminate against me just because I'm a ghost! Hasaki: That's not my problem. Besides, I know... Tomosane: Owww! Hasaki: Tomo Nii-saaaan, you did naughty things with Yuki-san, didn't you? Yuki: Huh? Tomosane: Wh-Wh-What?! Hasaki: Don't underestimate the power of the Sanami family. Jeez, you should just go rest in peace, Yuki-san. Yuki: The Sanami family has nothing to do with that. In the end, they didn't have any real powers, right? Hasaki: But I really do have those powers! And you're a ghost, so don't haunt my Tomo Nii-san! Yuki: That's no fun. Hasaki: I really am grateful for everything, but I don't like ghosts that try to steal my Tomo Nii-san in the night. Yuki: I'm not going to steal him. He doesn't belong to anyone to begin with. Hasaki: No, he belongs to me! Yuki: Does he really? That's really immoral, you know. Hasaki: It's better than doing dirty things with a ghost! Tomosane: U-Um, this is... Hasaki: What? Tomosane: Uh, how are you having a conversation with Yuki? Hasaki: Because I can see her. Tomosane: How can you see her? Hasaki: I don't know. All I know is that I can see her. Yuki: What? Now Hasaki-chan is hallucinating too? Hasaki: I'm not! Anyway, if you do dirty things with Tomo Nii-san again, I'll kill you. Yuki: But I'm already dead. Hasaki: I'll kill you a second time! Yuki: But I'm 007. Tomosane: Ow, ow, ow, ow. Stop it, Hasaki! Yuki: Come on, Hasaki! I was the one who saved you! Don't be so mean! Tomosane: Hey, Yuki, don't pull on me! Hasaki and Yuki were both giggling by now... and pulling me in opposite directions. On one side was my sister. On the other side was a ghost. Or maybe a hallucination? I don't get it. Then Yuki said something. Yuki: Wouldn't it be amazing having a girlfriend that's just in your head? I don't age, so I'll always be the cute Yuki-chan that you fell in love with. Hasaki: Shut up! You're just a ghost! Yuki: Ghosts still have basic human rights. Hasaki: No, they don't! It's like you're saying that two-dimensional girls have human rights too! Yuki: Why, you little... The sun fell in the sky, and a waning moon rose far off in the distance. A perfectly ordinary world. A perfectly ordinary life. Could you call this ridiculous life we're living ordinary? Yuki: Hasaki-chan, you should really go find yourself a boyfriend. It's not healthy to be in love with your brother. Hasaki: I don't want to hear that from a ghost. Yuki: Being a ghost isn't as bad as being his sister. Hasaki: That doesn't make sense! Hasaki: Haven't you ever heard of the story of the Peony Lantern? A romantic relationship with a dead person is never going to work out well! Yuki: That's a story from a long time ago. Things are different now. Hasaki: I don't think something like that will ever change! You'll suck the life out of Tomo Nii-san if you get too close to him! Yuki: What do you mean? Haven't you ever heard of a guardian angel? Hasaki: That's just superstition! I'm pretty sure talking about ghosts is already solidly in the realm of superstition... Hasaki: Besides, it said online that long distance relationships never last for very long. Yuki: Haa... You kids are so spoiled nowadays. Yuki: In the Analects of Confucius, it says that distance is no obstacle if two people really love each other. Hasaki: There's way too much distance between a living person and a dead person! Yuki: Love can conquer even that distance. Hasaki: That doesn't make sense! Neither do you. Even after Dad's memorial ceremony ended, Yuki never disappeared. Hasaki and I were the only ones who were ever able to see her. Hasaki doesn't have to go to the hospital like I do, but the doctors would probably diagnose her with PTSD resulting from brain damage she suffered at the time of her fall. We don't actually know why Hasaki and I can see Yuki. We don't know if she's a ghost or just a hallucination. Regardless, the two of us can talk with her, play with her, and even laugh along with her. We don't know how long it'll last. These happy times could even end tomorrow. But that same statement applies to everything in our lives. The Yuki in front of me could disappear at any moment. In truth, that same anxiety extends to every existence in this world. So I won't think about it anymore. The road that leads endlessly up the hill. The peak that lies foggy in the distance. It's just like our own journey through the world. There's no use worrying about what lies at the peak. We have only to enjoy the journey up the slope.
Live happily! Ludwig Josef Johann Wittgenstein July 8, 1916 The end of summer. Even at the end of summer, the sun shone high in the sky. Cumulonimbi gathered strength far off in the distance. It'd been a while since I came out to Hasaki's apartment. The Sanami woman. That's what they always called my mother in the village. Her expression only barely changed when she saw me. Kotomi: T-Takuji? Tomosane: ... I shook my head. Tomosane: I'm Tomosane. Mamiya Tomosane. Kotomi: Tomo...sane... Tomosane: That's right. Tomosane, the child you had with Hiroo. Takuji is dead. Kotomi: Takuji is... dead... Tomosane: That's right. Don't you remember? Kotomi: Takuji is... dead... She mumbled those words with an empty heart. Then she just turned back to the wall and stared, unmoving. Tomosane: Nothing has changed... Hasaki: That's not true at all. Tomosane: Really? Hasaki: Yeah, she started getting better after July 20th last year. It's a miracle that she can even hold a basic conversation like that. Tomosane: I see. Hasaki: But this is the most dangerous time for her. I have to keep a close eye on her. Tomosane: The most dangerous time? Hasaki: When she's just talking to the wall, I don't have to worry about her committing suicide, but when she has enough willpower to talk to people, then she might also have enough willpower to do something. Tomosane: She has willpower... In other words, you think there's the possibility of her committing suicide? Hasaki: That's right. I have to take her to the Mamiya house and watch over her. Tomosane: Hasaki. Hasaki: Hm? What? Tomosane: You know, I... I hate this woman so much I could kill her. The blame for this entire tragedy lies on her shoulders. Hasaki: Yeah. You might be right. Tomosane: You should hate her even more than I do, so why are you taking care of her? Hasaki: Because she's my mother. Tomosane: Even if that's what you believe, she threw you away. Hasaki: You just didn't know her, Tomo Nii-san. Tomosane: I didn't know her? Hasaki: She... didn't love Dad, and that's why she committed that taboo and gave birth to us, right? Tomosane: ... Those words silenced me. I didn't understand what train of thought could lead her to that conclusion. Tomosane: You know, Hasaki, you don't need to make excuses for her. Hasaki: No, it's the truth. It's not a question of perspective. It's the truth. Tomosane: The truth? Hasaki: She loved Dad, and she loved Takuji Nii-san, you, and even me. She really loved us. Tomosane: That's ridiculous. That's not true! Hasaki: Dad died very young, didn't he? He knew that he didn't have very much time left. Tomosane: He knew? Hasaki: Yeah. He had a really bad, chronic condition. Especially after you went back to the village, he constantly needed dialysis or else he was at risk of dying. Tomosane: But he had cancer. Hasaki: Yeah, he did. He knew that either way, he wouldn't live for much longer. Hasaki: You probably didn't know, but I heard from the doctor at the hospital after he died. Hasaki: If not for his chronic condition, they could've healed his cancer without a problem. Tomosane: They could've? Hasaki: Mom wanted to save him because he was the only person who protected her when she was persecuted by everyone else in the village. Hasaki: She just wanted to save Dad... Hasaki: That's why she started experimenting with new religions. She was tricked by that new cult's pastor. Tomosane: The White Lotus Association... Hasaki: Yeah, and Mom was a beautiful woman. More importantly, she was the successor to the bloodline of the Sanagi shrine maidens. Hasaki: In the religious industry, the traditional shrine maiden bloodline simply has market value. Tomosane: Market value? Hasaki: Yeah, the pastor and the isolated woman... He wanted to have a child with the shrine maiden who had inherited her powers from ancient times. Hasaki: He didn't even know for sure if the Sanami family had real powers, but he wanted people to believe that they did. Hasaki: And as for the rest of the organization, don't you think they would support this child as the next pastor too? Tomosane: Just because of her family name? Hasaki: Yes. She only did it because she thought that Dad would be saved if she gave birth to the savior. Hasaki: That's not all. She thought that the pastor could help her make peace with the village people who persecuted her as well. Tomosane: Th-That's ridiculous... Hasaki: It's true. She was desperate because she wanted to save Dad, and she regretted that he couldn't go back to the village because he eloped with her. She was trying to make peace with them. Tomosane: That's... That's too stupid... Hasaki: She was a fool. In truth, she was naive. So naive that she slept with a man she didn't like and bore his child. Hasaki: All to birth a savior who would save the world. Tomosane: But for better or worse, she gave birth to twins. Hasaki: What I think is the pastor had grown tired of her, since he was only using her for her body. Hasaki: He had plenty of other women anyway. So when Mom gave birth to twins, he made up an excuse to get rid of her by saying that Takuji Nii-san had lost his qualification to be the savior. Hasaki: She was thrown away just because he got tired of using her. Hasaki: But she still tried to raise Takuji Nii-san as the savior. She believed that it was still possible. Hasaki: It's true that Mom and Takuji Nii-san were cold to me, but it was even harder on Mom. She was trying to accomplish something that no human could ever accomplish. Hasaki: That's why... the day that Dad died, Mom was completely broken by the shock. Hasaki: She gave birth to a child that would be the savior just so she could save Dad... but her plan was fruitless, and he died anyway. Tomosane: Then why did she try to hurt you? Hasaki: She seriously believed that Takuji Nii-san could cross the border between life and death if he awakened to his powers as the savior. Hasaki: She believed that if she could just kill me and restore the powers that Takuji Nii-san originally had, then he would be able to bring me back to life afterward, and his father as well. Tomosane: What do you mean? Hasaki: If I died and Takuji Nii-san's powers came back, Dad and I would both be able to come back to life. Tomosane: That's totally absurd. Hasaki: Yeah... It's absurd. Hasaki: But, you know, I can understand it. Hasaki: You heard she was bullied in that village, right? Hasaki: I wasn't bullied like that, but it really felt like I didn't even exist, both at home and at school. It's not like I can't understand how she must've felt. Hasaki: I always thought I was just an unnecessary person. I was just someone who didn't matter much either way. I wonder if that's what she thought to herself too. Hasaki: And then for the first time in your life, someone in this world discovers that you exist. Hasaki: You would do absolutely anything for that person. Hasaki: If you've always felt like you weren't needed, then if there was anything in the world you could do for the one person who finally loved you, you would do it. Hasaki: Because that's how I feel, too. Tomosane: Hasaki... Hasaki: I would do anything to save you, Tomo Nii-san. Hasaki: I would die if it meant that you could live. If I had to sacrifice my body in order to protect you, then I would do it without hesitation. Hasaki: Maybe that's because I got that from her. We really are mother and daughter. Hasaki: But my heart is weak, so if there wasn't anyone who needed my sullied body anymore, then I would just die, right then and there. Hasaki: But Mom wanted to save him with all her heart. That was the only reason why she betrayed him. Hasaki: Hahahaha... Mom really was a fool. Tomosane: Hasaki... I was at a loss for words. Until this very moment, I'd lived my entire life hating my mother. Now I didn't have it in me to truly hate this woman. She was just a fool, and her foolish attempts to find happiness caused all this. Even then, I just think she was... Tomosane: She was so stupid. She really was a fool. Hasaki: Yeah, and so was her daughter, me... Tomosane: Yeah... Even the person I had pinned as the first cause in this entire tragedy... It's not that easy to just say that she was the root of all evil. Of course, she wasn't without sin either. Her sin was that she was ignorant, incompetent, and overly confident. She was a fool, but she tried as hard as she could despite being a fool, and this was the result. But I wonder if I can blame her alone. I wonder if my father's choice was right. I wonder if he made the wrong choice. What about Hasaki's choice? What about mine? Or Takuji's decision, which led to his death. And then Yuki-nee's decision... I wonder if their decisions were right. How much faith did they have in their own decisions? Each one believed their decision was the right one, and this was the result. People like to attach a single cause to the problems they face. But the cause of a tragedy like this can't be traced back to one decision. The combination of several correct individual choices can even cause terrible tragedy. In that sense... It must be true that the road to hell is paved with good intentions. Man is blissfully unaware as he walks along that road to hell. Hasaki: What's wrong, Tomo Nii-san? Tomosane: Oh, nothing. It's nothing. My mother just looked at the wall, same as ever. What did she see there? For a moment, I lost sight of the fundamental difference between her actions and the actions carried out by all the rest of humanity over the course of their lives. I quoted the words of a philosopher. The words of the world's most difficult philosopher. Tomosane: The subject does not belong to the world but it is a limit of the world. Tomosane: The sense of the world must lie outside the world. In the world everything is as it is and happens as it does happen. Tomosane: Therefore, no value exists in the world. No value exists in the world. Not money, or fame, or women, or dreams. * Not human rights,* or democracy, or missiles, or government. Or religion, or god, or faith, or thought. Not philosophy, or science, or family, or love. And of course, every story ever told is just another part of the world. All of them are neither outside the world nor the world's limits. The world...& To put it in words, it's a container. The world can't be anything other than a container. A container can't be filled with other containers. All the different materials which make up the world are incapable of filling us. That's why I say this. No one can tell you what you should fill that container with. Hasaki: What was that? Tomosane: Huh? I was just talking to myself. Forget it. Hasaki: Grr. Tomosane: Wh-What? Hasaki: You and Yuki-san are always saying things that are hard to understand, like you figured something out. It's not fair. Tomosane: What do you mean, it's not fair? Besides, it's not a big deal. Hasaki: But it sounded like it was really hard to understand. Tomosane: Hard to understand? It wasn't anything important. Tomosane: It's something that everyone knows. The old man down the street, the cashier at the dollar store, and even the bearded taxi driver. Hasaki: They all understand what you just said? Tomosane: Yeah. Hasaki: Wh-Why is that? Tomosane: Live happily! Tomosane: That's all. Hasaki: Jeez, I don't get it. Tomosane: Don't overthink it. The most important thing to remember is that it's a command. Hasaki: A command? Tomosane: Yes. Those who consider themselves unfortunate spend most of their time complaining. No matter how unfortunate you believe your life to be, you must live happily! Tomosane: That's all. Tomosane: And... Hasaki: Whoa! I grabbed Hasaki's head in a vice grip. Tomosane: That's how you're already living, so don't worry about it. I ruminated on the words of a genius, the world's most difficult philosopher. Even though it's such an easy answer, which everyone already knows, arriving at that answer was difficult beyond measure. The reason why is because God lives in these words. "To believe in a God means to understand the question about the meaning of life." "To believe in a God means to see that the facts of the world are not the end of the matter." "To believe in a God means to see that life has a meaning." That God doesn't need to work miracles. He didn't create the world in one week. He fundamentally does nothing. Even then, he irresponsibly tells us... He whispers in our ears that we must "live happily." All he did was establish the workings of the universe, and he didn't do it for anyone's sake in particular. That's the truth of the person we call God. All the world's lies, injustices, fakes, lechers, and filth... All of those are permitted by God. No matter what injustices befall us in life, God still says to us. "Live happily!" On a whim, I decided to say something to my mother. Tomosane: Live happily. That's what God has told us. Kotomi: ... She looked at me with dead eyes. So I said to her... Tomosane: Everything has been saved. Hasaki and me were saved, and so were you, Takuji, and Dad, too. Tomosane: Don't drown in your sorrow. That sorrow is nothing more than a liquor to get you drunk on happiness. Tomosane: You shouldn't use alcohol to fill the void inside you, though. Tomosane: What container is worth filling? I posed that question to my mother. I was just talking to myself. I left the apartment. Hasaki: I'm going to the store. Tomosane: Yeah, sure. I'm gonna go home and take a nap. Hasaki: What are you talking about? You have a shift to work tonight. Tomosane: Do I? Hasaki: You do * And you can't skip out on work today."* Tomosane: Yeah, I gotcha. Hasaki and I parted ways after that. Hasaki went straight to the train station, but I decided to walk. I walked through the unfamiliar city and came to the river. If you follow this road, you'll come to a place near Suginomiya. I walked alone down the river terrace. "Hey, Unidentified Minor #1! It's been a while!" Tomosane: ... I met another person I didn't really want to see. Or in his case, the probability is higher that I was tailed by a person I didn't really want to see. "So the trial is over... Congratulations." Kimura: Even if you were found not guilty, is it really safe for you to be out walking alone? Kimura: Your face and name got posted all over the Internet. There were a lot of people who weren't happy with that ruling. Tomosane: Seems like it, huh? Kimura: Yeah, for sure. Is it okay for you to be taking a leisurely walk outside? Tomosane: It's been more than a year since that incident. Nothing has happened so far, so it should be fine, right? Kimura: No, no, don't you think you could get in trouble? Tomosane: How? I haven't had any trouble. I'm just living my life like normal. Kimura: Really? Isn't it scary that a bunch of people you don't know are talking about you? Tomosane: I'm not afraid of what other people think. They're not people I know. Kimura: Oh, look at you. You really are strong. Tomosane: I don't care if they're not happy about the ruling. If they want to do something, then they should confront me directly. Kimura: Directly? You know that there's no one who can fight you and hope to win Tomosane: A few people tried, though. Kimura: They did? Tomosane: They were gangsters or thugs, I think. I'm not sure, but they thought they were tough. They came after me a few times. Kimura: Ahaha... I see. How did that go? Tomosane: Nothing really happened. They weren't any different from the guys I ran into around here. None of them were on the same level as Yuki or Master. Kimura: It seems like a lot of lowlifes do that nowadays. Some of them even post on social media that they're looking for someone to fight. Kimura: Your picture and address might've been posted on those sites, you know? Tomosane: I don't really care. Kimura: Jeez, you're always so cool-headed. You could at least humor me and look a little upset. Tomosane: Are you still investigating? Kimura: If I called it an investigation... it would be a lie. Kimura: You're not valuable enough for a weekly magazine to keep chasing now. Tomosane: Then why are you here? Kimura: Just personal interest. Is that good enough? Tomosane: Hmph. Do you think I'm going to play along? Kimura: Who knows? Kimura slowly followed after me when I walked away. I had no reason to run away either, so we kept walking, looking as if we were going somewhere together. Kimura: What was the deal with that whole incident, anyway? Tomosane: ... Kimura: Why did it turn into such a ridiculous situation? Tomosane: It's your job to figure that out. Kimura: Yeah, it's my job. Tomosane: But didn't you already finish that job? Kimura: Yeah, but my hobby is just an extension of my job, so I don't really mind. Tomosane: How convenient. I wanted to point out all the flaws in his logic, but... Kimura: I was thinking... I wonder why so many people played along with his absurd tragedy. Kimura: Normally, no one would play along with that kind of absurd farce. Kimura: How did he even know the world was ending? And why would someone want to kill themselves before it ends? I don't understand it. Tomosane: He didn't want anyone to kill themselves. From his perspective, they were all just returning to the sky. Kimura: Now that you mention it, there were a lot of people who took part in that group suicide even though they weren't students at Kita High. Tomosane: ... Kimura: Even those who weren't alumni at the school―people who were completely unrelated―were involved. Kimura: Group hysteria... That's what they called it in the newspapers and magazines. Kimura: But then why did so many unrelated people end up dying? Kimura: That kind of hysteria only occurs in group settings. People from all over, even completely unrelated people, gathered in that place. Tomosane: I don't know much about this, but aren't they saying that all that crazy stuff happened because the whole group was suffering from hysteria? Kimura: I guess that's what they've been saying, but that doesn't really explain anything, does it? Kimura: None of those unrelated people were registered on the underground message board either. Kimura: I don't know how they all heard about it, but it seems like they all came for different reasons. Tomosane: Apparently some people just heard rumors that they could have sex there. Kimura: Yeah, of course, but isn't it ridiculous that they would die just to have sex? Tomosane: I guess so. Kimura: But after I spent so much time reading the forums, I'm not really surprised that people would do that. Tomosane: They would die just to have sex? Kimura: I guess they would. It seems ridiculous to me. Kimura: It actually seems like a pretty common scene in this world... That's what I think. Tomosane: A pretty common scene? Kimura: Yeah, it can even seem perfectly natural for this kind of incident to happen. Sometimes I fall prey to that illusion. Tomosane: No, I don't think it can be natural. Kimura: Of course, it doesn't actually happen that easily, but sometimes it really does happen. Tomosane: Sometimes? Kimura: Every time we hear rumors about missile attacks from neighboring countries, a new strain of a virus that could wipe out humanity, or a prophecy about some great disaster that is going to strike us. Kimura: It happens every time. Tomosane: What does? Kimura: They say, 'Here it is at last.' Tomosane: Here it is at last? Kimura: A young man once said that war is the only solution, and he became famous overnight. Kimura: If a war starts, then it will at least change the situation we're stuck in. So sometimes we need to wage war. Kimura: In a sense, that's a logical way of thinking. Kimura: But that's not all it is. Kimura: Every time someone predicts a great disaster, you hear these words. Now I can finally die. Now it's finally over. Tomosane: Hmm... If you want to die, then you should just go and die already. Kimura: No, I totally agree. They should. Kimura: If they want to die, then they should. Why do they have to wait for some disaster to kill them? Kimura: That's right... Kimura: But you know, every time one of these disasters is predicted, you see people online saying that they can finally die. Kimura: Even if it's not quite the end of the world, all they need is a large-scale disaster. Kimura: With that, they can say that it's finally over. Kimura: Why do they look for a reason to end it? Tomosane: A reason... Kimura: Yes... A reason to die. Tomosane: ... Tomosane: I see. So then what are you trying to say, as a journalist? Tomosane: Are you trying to say that our repressive society caused this incident? Kimura: Oh, that's a good one. Our repressive society... The feeling of repression spreading among our youth is the real cause of this incident! That would be a good headline. Kimura: Hahahaha, you have talent, Tomosane-kun. Why don't you become a writer? You wouldn't make it as a journalist, but we still have plenty of room for extra writers. Tomosane: Haa... What did you really come here for? Kimura: Hahahaha... Our repressive society, huh * This country has definitely been dominated by that kind of atmosphere for a while now."* Kimura: This city, you know... Kimura: Once upon a time, people called this place a new town. Kimura: That was before I was born. It was a long time ago that this city was new. Kimura: It was new before we ever knew it. Kimura: All sorts of things were new before we were ever born. Kimura: A world of only new things... Kimura: Everything was new, and everything in the world was complete. Tomosane: Haa... Can I say something? Tomosane: Don't you think there were a lot of people who felt like they were being repressed, even in the distant past? Tomosane: It's not just the modern generation. There have always been those people. Kimura: Oh, then how about this? Kimura: How vast is the earth? How far is the past? I face a great foe, and hope I will last. Kimura: Learnt of Horatio, but truly all for naught. Kimura: The world's lies, all told... Kimura: The truth which I sought. Kimura: Fire burns in my chest. I seek my final rest. Kimura: No hell for fearing, nor lord for saving. Now I see with hope, hopelessness melding. Tomosane: Is that Fujimura Misao? Kimura: Oh, I thought you would recognize it. That was a poem called 'To Stand Upon a Great Precipice.' Tomosane: I don't really understand, but that was the suicide note left by a high school student who committed suicide at the Kegon waterfall in the Meiji era, am I right? Kimura: Yeah, yeah. Tomosane: I heard there were a lot of copycat suicides afterward, too. Kimura: That's true, there were. People always feel like they're being repressed by society, no matter what era it is. Kimura: As if their human life has no value in this universe, in this world... Kimura: Not only in this era. Tomosane: Then... Kimura: Then... what do you think? Tomosane: ... Kimura: It's not something that only happens in the modern era. This wasn't the only time... Kimura: But the only era we can live in is this one. Kimura: We aren't living in the same era as Fujimura Misao, Natsume Souseki, or Ozaki Housai. Kimura: The suffering we experience is our own, present suffering. Kimura: Not the suffering of someone from a distant past. Kimura: The pain we feel right now will never belong to anyone else. That's why it's precious. Tomosane: Haa... Tomosane: Are you okay, Kimura-san? Did Mamiya Takuji decide to possess you next? Kimura: No, no, hahahaha... No, I just got a bit worked up. Tomosane: ... Tomosane: I see. The pain we feel right now will never belong to anyone else, huh? Tomosane: Well... Honestly, I think that's a pretty boring argument. Kimura: Really? Tomosane: For instance, you say 'our' pain, when really it's just one person's pain. Your pronoun usage is all over the place. Kimura: Oh wow, I guess you're right. Tomosane: Haa... Tomosane: But I understand that feeling. Tomosane: The feeling when you want to say, 'This is my pain, not anyone else's.' Kimura and I kept walking on and on along the river embankment. On and on... Kimura: What I'm trying to get at is... what is our raison d'etre? Tomosane: Raison d'etre? Kimura: I mean to ask what our life is worth. Tomosane: Ah... Kimura: The meaning of life... Kimura: Well, everyone gets a bit existential when they're teenagers. It's an unsolvable problem that everyone thinks about, and everyone believes a certain way about, but no one can answer for sure. Kimura: Maybe that's why the question has such an allure. Tomosane: Do you think so? Kimura: Don't you? Kimura: Well, it certainly depends on the person, too. Some people worry about it more than others. Kimura: But everyone who's ever felt powerless has worried about the meaning of their life, right? Kimura: Is there ultimately a meaning to my life, or yours, or anyone else's? To any human life? Is there some meaning behind our existence? Everyone wonders that sometimes. Tomosane: I see. Kimura: That's the question you have to wrestle with all your life, no matter how rich or poor you are. Well, it's still better to have money, though. Kimura: People always feel a certain anxiety toward their own raison d'etre. That question of why we exist. Kimura: D'ou venons-nous? Que Sommes-nous? Ou allons-nous? Tomosane: Where do we come from? What are we? Where are we going? Kimura: That's right. That was the final painting by the French artist Paul Gauguin. He gave it that name right before he committed suicide. Tomosane: It was technically just a suicide attempt, though. Kimura: Hahahaha, that's right. Kimura: The moon which is a dream, and the sixpence which is reality... Where did we come from, and where we going? Tomosane: Isn't it all just from the cradle to the grave? Kimura: Hahahaha, what's that? You mean to say that the object of human effort should always be on improving our lives in this world? Tomosane: That's what a human life is, isn't it? Kimura: ... Kimura: It might be... Kimura: That might be all there is in our lives. Kimura: Especially for us, who were born into a world where everything has already been set up and manufactured for us. Isn't it kind of cruel? Tomosane: Hehehe... Now we're criticizing modern society? Kimura: Ahahaha, I guess so. I suppose that's what it sounds like, ahaha. Tomosane: ... How long had we been walking? The water flowing in the river now reflected a sheen of golden light. Our two shadows, standing side by side, had also grown longer and darker. Tomosane: Is there any meaning to the pieces of a jigsaw puzzle? Kimura: Huh? What do you mean? Tomosane: Every individual piece of a jigsaw puzzle has no meaning whatsoever. Tomosane: Each one is completely meaningless in its existence. Tomosane: From the way you're talking, a human being is an existence no better than a single piece of a jigsaw puzzle. Kimura: No better than a single piece of a jigsaw puzzle... Tomosane: Yes. Without a place to fit. For instance, if a person has no place they belong, then that one piece has no meaning. Kimura: ... Tomosane: One piece of a jigsaw puzzle. One misshapen fragment. Tomosane: Without a place where it fits, it's just an ugly, meaningless existence. Kimura: That's... Tomosane: But is a human life really equal to a single puzzle piece? Tomosane: Are we really puzzle pieces? Kimura: ... Tomosane: A piece of a puzzle has a place where it fits because of its outside edge. Kimura: Because of its outside edge? Tomosane: Yeah. It fits right into a place in the puzzle because of its exterior. Kimura: Its exterior... Tomosane: Yes, its exterior. Tomosane: Take that argument to its logical end. Where is the outside edge on my world, or the outside edge on your world? Kimura: The outside edge of my world... Tomosane: That's right. Where is the world which your world is supposed to fit into? Tomosane: The place where my world fits perfectly like a piece of a jigsaw puzzle... Does such a larger world even exist? Tomosane: What I think is... Tomosane: We have no exterior. Tomosane: Our world has no exterior. Tomosane: This world, including you, this river, the sun, and even the bloodshot sky overhead. Tomosane: There is no exterior or anything. Tomosane: It's all just the world. Tomosane: It's all just my world. Kimura: Is that solipsism? Kimura: The world is only in your head. Your own existence is the world. Tomosane: Who knows? I'm not sure, myself. Tomosane: I don't really feel like I'm alone in the world. Tomosane: You're right in front of my eyes, so you definitely exist. I would even go so far as to say that Minakami Yuki and the Wakatsuki sisters existed as well, even if they didn't exist to you. Tomosane: But still, even then, my world ends at the limit of my world. Tomosane: I don't know anything beyond the limit of my own world. I have no way of knowing anything else. Tomosane: That's why I'm only me. Tomosane: It's a bit strange for me to say this after sharing my body with multiple people. No, especially because of that, I can say that I'm no one except myself. Tomosane: I'm not this arm, this leg, this heart, this body, or even this brain. Tomosane: Of course, I'm not the road, the river, or the sky either. Tomosane: I'm me. Tomosane: And my world is the world. There is no exterior to that world. Tomosane: So I don't need a meaning. Tomosane: My world needs no addendum. Tomosane: The world is not a piece of a jigsaw puzzle. Tomosane: Just look at how wide our world is. It extends out into the infinite vastness of space and time. Kimura: Space and time? Tomosane: How wide is our brain? Tomosane: The brain is wider than the sky. Tomosane: For, put them side by side, the one the other will include... Tomosane: With ease, and you beside. Tomosane: The brain is deeper than the sea. Tomosane: For, hold them, blue to blue... Tomosane: The one the other will absorb... Tomosane: As sponges, buckets do. Tomosane: The brain is just the weight of God. Tomosane: For, lift them, pound for pound... Tomosane: And they will differ, if they do... Tomosane: As syllable from sound. Tomosane: You know? Kimura: What was that? Tomosane: That was Emily Dickinson. Kimura: Oh, Dickinson, the American poet. It's impressive that you know her at your age. Tomosane: There's no need to look for a meaning in life. Tomosane: There's no need to hesitate in the face of an incomprehensible existence. Tomosane: There's no need to hesitate in the face of the incomprehensibility of this world, this universe, this sky, this river, or this road. Tomosane: It's all so vast that it can absorb everything which is a human life. Tomosane: It's just the size of God. Tomosane: It's just the weight of God. Tomosane: It's a beautiful syllable and a beautiful sound. Kimura: ... Kimura laughed. His face kind of got on my nerves. Kimura: Ooh, you're pretty good too. You really know how to talk. Tomosane: Wha― Kimura: Hehehehe... What's wrong? You always act so tough, like no one could ever get under your skin. Tomosane: I-I'm not trying to act tough or anything... Kimura: Come on, it's nothing to get embarrassed about. Tomosane: Sh-Shut up! Kimura: All right, but that was really funny. Kimura: We have no exterior... Kimura: I see... Kimura: It's true. Even if we had an exterior, it would just be another part of the world we know. Kimura: Maybe, at some point, we started looking for some kind of exterior. We started trying to see some kind of scene which we can never see. Tomosane: A scene that doesn't exist... Kimura: That's right. Kimura: The far shore. A better place. An exterior world. The world of the gods. That's what it is, no matter what you call it. Kimura: So people fall into despair. Kimura: They despair of the meaning in their lives, the meaning in their worlds, the meaning in their selves. Kimura: Despair might be a word which describes people who are trying to see a scene which can never be seen. Tomosane: Trying to see a scene which can never be seen... Kimura: Of course! When we try to speak of a scene which can never be seen, our words trip on themselves, standing meaningless in space and explaining nothing. Kimura: If you think of it that way, looking at the scene which can never be seen and feeling the emotion of despair, it's like unrequited love. Tomosane: Huh? Despair is unrequited love? What are you talking about? Kimura: Why do people try to see the exterior which can never exist? Kimura: Because they wish that it could exist! Kimura: People look to the outside because they hope for it to exist. There might be no one out there, no one and nothing. They look to the outside because they're not even sure if that outside exists. Kimura: Why is that? Tomosane: Haa... Because of that longing? Kimura: That's right. Despair is longing. Kimura: And that longing is actually very similar to unrequited love. Tomosane: Haa... Tomosane: I don't agree at all. Kimura: Really? I think you agree, more than you know. Tomosane: Despair is longing, and that longing is like an unrequited love... Tomosane: It's like hearing some desperate virgin who lashes out at people because of his insecurities. Kimura: Hm? Tomosane: Huh? Kimura: Hmmm? Tomosane: Wh-What? Kimura: Huuuh? Tomosane: Wh-What are you laughing at? Kimura: Yuuki-kun, weren't you a virgin? Tomosane: Wha―Th-That's not... Kimura: Hehehehe... You know, I might look dim, but I've investigated your past very thoroughly. Kimura: There were an awful lot of bad rumors about you, but in reality you don't have any experience with women. Tomosane: Wh-What have you been investigating?! Kimura: Huh? That's my job, you know! Tomosane: Th-Then maybe I am a virgin... Kimura: Hehehehe... You guys can't legally get married, either. Tomosane: Wha―! Kimura: There are ethical problems there, too. Tomosane: K-Kimura! Have you been going behind my back?! Kimura: Hahahaha, but the law has nothing to do with real love. People will fall in love no matter what the punishment. Kimura: Romeo and Juliet! Tomosane: No, that's not actually a story about incest... Kimura: Oh? So it really is your sister? Tomosane: Huh?! Kimura: Ooh, I better get going! Tomosane: Kimura, you asshole! Get back here! Kimura: No thanks. I'd like to keep all my bones intact, if you don't mind. Kimura: Make sure you wear a rubber, kid. Not like I really care, though. Tomosane: Kimura! Kimura ran and jumped down off the embankment. Then he disappeared into the city. Dusk enveloped the city. The sky slowly turned a darker shade of red, and the buildings' shadows grew longer by the moment. When the world sank into darkness, the lights came on in the city. The lights of human activity buzzed into life. Tomosane: Better get going. I have work tonight. I had a shift to work tonight. I play the piano at that same bar. I play the piano however I feel like, and occasionally I even take requests from the customers. But mostly, I just play.
3.0321 We could present spatially an atomic fact which contradicted the laws of physics, but not one which contradicted the laws of geometry. Ludwig Josef Johann Wittgenstein - "Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus" "..." "......" "A transparent..." "A transparent white?" "..." "No, that's not it." "There's no such thing as a transparent white." "If it's white, then it's not transparent. So I guess it's only half-transparent." "But still, this isn't really half-transparent." "If I had to describe this..." "It's..." "A transparent white." "This is... that." 'Light.' "Light." "Light?" "This is." "Just light." "That's right... That's it." "This is..." "Light." Yuki: The sound of cicadas. Yuki: Is this the rooftop? I looked around and found myself in a familiar place. It was the Building A rooftop. Yuki: Why? Why am I here? Mamiya Tomosane jumped off the roof to protect Hasaki, and then... And then... What happened? Yuki: What day is today? Right now, it should be... I looked at the clock. The date was July 20th, 2012. Yuki: It's been a whole day. Mamiya Tomosane definitely fell from the rooftop, and before that, he received a serious knife wound in his chest. I didn't know what condition his body was in, but he couldn't possibly have gotten released from the hospital already. The fact that I was standing there was most definitely unnatural. Yuki: What's going on? Did Mamiya Tomosane survive? * No, the fact that I'm standing here, in such a strange place, means that I have to assume he's dead.* Either that, or this is the world of dreams again. Or maybe this is a lucid dream? I tried pinching my cheek. Yuki: Ow, that hurts. If it was a dream, even a lucid dream, I would have felt less pain than normal. Since I felt pain when I pinched my cheek, that meant that the scene unfolding before me was real. Yuki: Otonashi Ayana... san. Ayana: It has been a while. Yuki: Has it? Ayana: Hasn't it? Yuki: But it's only been one day since the last time we saw each other, hasn't it? Ayana: Yes. Yuki: Hey, uh... Ayana: What? Yuki: What happened to Mamiya Tomosane, anyway? Ayana: Why are you asking that? Yuki: W-Well, I'm curious. I'm just another personality that he created, after all. Ayana: Then he's alive, right? Yuki: What do you mean by that? Ayana: Hypothesis #1: If you are a personality that was created by Mamiya Tomosane, then the fact that you still exist is enough reason to believe that Mamiya Tomosane's body is still alive. Yuki: B-But that doesn't make sense. Ayana: Why not? Yuki: Because he suffered serious wounds. He couldn't have come back here after just one day. Ayana: I agree. Yuki: Even if my personality did come to the surface, it'd be in a hospital bed or something. Ayana: Then, hypothesis #2: You didn't come into existence as a result of dissociative identity disorder. Ayana: Your existence is a continuation of the same person who existed in the past. You have the same soul as the real Minakami Yuki. If your soul merely came to reside in Mamiya Tomosane's body, then the reason must be... Ayana: That must mean Mamiya Tomosane has died. Yuki: N-No way... Ayana: Or how about this, hypothesis #3: If this is a dream that you're having, then... Ayana: The Otonashi Ayana standing in front of you would be just another character in your dream. That hypothesis is also fairly convincing. Ayana: Now then, which explanation for the current situation do you prefer? Yuki: Which do I prefer? That's not the problem at hand. Ayana: Hypothesis #4: You are just a figment of my imagination. A hallucination being produced by my brain. In other words, you don't exist. Yuki: Ahahaha. Then what about me, the person having all of these thoughts right now? Yuki: I think, therefore I am, right? Ayana: Those thoughts could result from my brain activity as well. One part of my brain could simply perceive itself as a separate personality. Ayana: In other words, the fact that you think is not sufficient proof of your existence. Ayana: You can't deny the possibility that the presently existing Minakami Yuki is actually just another personality which I created. Ayana: After seeing that three personalities can simultaneously exist in one body, you should understand that possibility better than anyone. Ayana: The fact that you can think is not sufficient proof of your existence. Yuki: Um, there's something I'd like to know. Ayana: What's that? Yuki: Like I was saying, what happened after everything that happened here? Ayana: If you wish to know that, then you should go find out yourself. You can open the door and go out into the outside world at any time. That's all you need to do. Yuki: ... It was just as she said. If I felt like it, I could leave at any time. I could leave the rooftop and go see the outside world. If I did that, then I could get my wish. I could see the aftermath of everything that happened. But... Yuki: If I go outside, huh? Ayana: Yes. Yuki: That's definitely one option, but can I ask you something? Ayana: What? Yuki: What day is today? Ayana: July 20th, 2012. Yuki: Which means that tomorrow is the first day of summer vacation? Ayana: Yes. Tomorrow is the first day of summer vacation. Yesterday, a group suicide happened here. Summer vacation or no, that would make this a crime scene. And yet, looking out from the rooftop... Everything looked perfectly normal. Students walking through the halls. Students chatting in the classrooms. Teachers lecturing their students. Everything was completely normal. This couldn't be the aftermath of such a tragedy. Ayana: What's wrong? Yuki: Is that the last hypothesis you have? Ayana: Do you want to hear another hypothesis? Ayana: We can come up with as many explanations as you would like. It's possible to create as many different annotations for this world as you want. Ayana: If that is what you wish, then we can make as many as you like. Yuki: What is the 'End Sky' that Takuji-kun was talking about? Yuki: That is a word which wasn't in either Kotomi-san's prophecy or the White Lotus Association's prophecy. Ayana: End Sky... It is just that, 'the sky of the end.' Yuki: Who gave it that name, and when? Ayana: Memory... Yuki: Memory? Ayana: Spirit room. End Sky. Yuki: Wha-! Ayana: Hehehehe. So you do remember it. Yuki: I remember it? Those memories can't be right... Ayana: Really? Yuki: B-But that's really strange, isn't it? Ayana: How so? Yuki: But, I mean, that was a dream I saw when I got dragged into Takashima-san's suicide, right? Yuki: Isn't that really strange? Ayana: What's strange about it? Yuki: I mean, after that, when I got involved in Takashima-san's suicide... It's like the whole sequence of events got messed up. I remember experiencing her suicide a second time after that. Ayana: Hypothesis #5: You still haven't woken from that dream. Yuki: That dream? Ayana: The Minakami Yuki that got dragged into Takashima Zakuro's suicide is still having that same dream at this very moment. Yuki: A-A dream? This is a dream? No, there's no way this could be a dream... Ayana: Okay. Then, hypothesis #6: Your memories of the spirit room and the End Sky are all false memories. Ayana: The constant changes of personality caused your memories to get confused, and as a result you just dreamed about the spirit room. Ayana: Takashima Zakuro didn't actually fall on you when she jumped off the building. That was just a result of your confused memory. Yuki: Then why did Takuji-kun use that same word, 'End Sky,' that appeared in my dream?! Ayana: You both share the same brain. It shouldn't be surprising that he knows about that. Yuki: B-But then... Ayana: The last scene you saw... Are you interested in that sky? Yuki: Ah! The last thing I saw... That sky... The scene which Mamiya Takuji-kun saw at that very moment when he jumped. I felt like I knew that scene, somehow. Ayana: A world which repeats from a certain point... Yuki: Huh? Ayana: Would you confirm it? Yuki: C-Confirm what? Ayana: Are you really Minakami Yuki-san? Yuki: Wh-What are you asking me now? Isn't that what you called me, yourself? Ayana: Yuki-san... Who is Minakami Yuki-san? Yuki: Huh? Ayana: Yuki-san was a person who existed in the past. That person died in the act of saving Mamiya Hasaki. After that, she also existed as another personality that manifested in Mamiya Tomosane's body. Ayana: In that case, who is the Yuki-san standing here right now? The Yuki-san that died? Or the Yuki-san who was created as another one of Mamiya Tomosane's personalities? Yuki: I-I can't answer that question... I don't know. Ayana: You don't know. That's why you asked me. Ayana: A final annotation. Ayana: A question for you, Yuki-san. Ayana: How many Yuki-sans exist in this world? Yuki: Huh? Ayana: One Yuki-san was born in Sawaimura, and she died in Sawaimura. Another one was created as one of Mamiya Tomosane's personalities. And then, one more Yuki-san exists who is standing here, talking to me. Ayana: That is the problem. How many Minakami Yuki-sans came before you? Yuki: I-I don't know. Wait, I'm me. There aren't any others! Ayana: The Yuki-san that died in Sawaimura, the Yuki-san inside Tomosane-kun, and the Yuki-san here now are all the same. Ayana: Then what about the other Yuki-sans that might exist? Yuki: The other copies of me that might exist? Ayana: Yes. The Yuki-sans that existed as other personalities. Would they be you as well, Yuki-san? Yuki: I don't know. Were there really that many of me?! Ayana: But the reality is that you weren't just one person. Ayana: The Yuki-san that was caught up in Takashima Zakuro's suicide, the Yuki-san that died in Sawaimura, the Yuki-san that was created by Tomosane-kun, and the Yuki-san that is right here. Yuki: I don't know. I'm just me. Ayana: The scene you saw in the spirit room... The End Sky. When did that scene happen? Yuki: Scene? Yuki: Ah! At that moment, strangely enough, I remembered the expiration date on a bag of potato chips I found in that attraction. I remembered the date on the calendar on the wall. I didn't at all understand what it meant, but... Somehow, I remembered that date. I didn't know whether those words had any meaning. The only thing that particularly stood out in my mind was the date. Ayana: The final annotation that I could give you... Ayana: Hypothesis #7: Every existence was created by one soul. Yuki: Wh-What do you mean? Ayana: Hehehehe. If all of the different Yuki-sans that existed really were Yuki-san, then the world doesn't require very many souls to exist. Ayana: If a single soul viewed every perspective, that would be enough. Yuki: I don't understand what you're saying. That's... Ayana: Takashima Zakuro, Mamiya Tomosane, and Mamiya Takuji. Even Mamiya Hasaki, Wakatsuki Kagami, and Wakatsuki Tsukasa. A single soul saw each and every one of those scenes. Yuki: That would be too strange. The time overlaps. Ayana: If you're going to say that, then you have to consider that the Yuki-san who was caught up in Takashima Zakuro-san's suicide existed at the same time as the Yuki-san who was not caught up in her suicide. Ayana: Ubiquitous transmigration. Yuki: Ubiquitous transmigration? Ayana: The endless reincarnation of a single soul. Ayana: Beyond the pale of time and space, the soul reincarnates endlessly. If that was possible, then the entire world wouldn't need more than one soul. Ayana: The world is created through the endless transmigration of just one soul. Ayana: It would be more unnatural for every living organism to have its own soul. The number of organisms is different in every moment. There would always be too many or too few souls for all the living organisms in the world. Ayana: So if the number of souls is just one, reincarnation would be the most suitable answer. Ayana: If one soul lives in all of life, then there is no problem. Yuki: That's... ridiculous. Ayana: Is it? Ayana: This explanation could solve a great number of the world's mysteries. Yuki: Like what? Ayana: Why are people able to understand each other? Ayana: If every person is a different existence, with a different perspective... If every person has a different world, then how do people understand each other? Ayana: You can't explain it. Ayana: If they both see the color red, how do they know that they're both seeing the same red color? Ayana: Tomosane-kun talked about a thought experiment, where one person might see the world through glasses that mirrored the world left to right and top to bottom. Ayana: I can understand that I am seeing the same world as other people because there is a consistency with the world that other people see. Ayana: But where does that understanding come from? Ayana: How can you say that the sensations of sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste which I feel are the same as those which others feel? Ayana: For instance... Pain. Ayana: How do I understand another person's pain? Yuki: From their expression or behavior. You can listen to the words they're saying, too. Ayana: That doesn't make for a sufficient explanation. In that case, the 'pain' which I understand could be different than the 'pain' which he or she is feeling. Yuki: Then you have to use your imagination. Ayana: Imagination. In other words, you can feel another person's pain by imagining that they feel the same pain that you do. Ayana: Then let's suppose that I feel 'pain' in this arm. Then I move that 'pain' to my fingertips. Ayana: Then I move the 'pain' from my fingertips to the ground when I touch it with my fingertips. Then at that moment, I should feel 'pain' in the ground. Then I move that 'pain' from the ground into your leg. Ayana: That's how I would move the 'pain' I feel from my body to another person so that I could feel their pain. Ayana: That's the only way you could 'imagine another person's pain.' Ayana: That 'pain' could be attributed to the ground, the clothes you wear, or even a book or desk. If you simply attribute pain to another thing through your imagination, then it holds no more meaning than 'pain' attributed to a book or a desk. Yuki: I can base my understanding in the pain which I can feel, but I have to use my imagination to feel pain which I cannot feel. Yuki: That argument comes from the philosopher Wittgenstein, doesn't it? Yuki: To feel another person's pain is not the same thing as using your imagination to move the pain from your body to another person's body. Ayana: Hehehehe. You know the answer, but you're playing dumb. Ayana: Why does 'pain' hold the same meaning for both you and another person? Yuki: I see. So you're trying to say that every person is just another 'me,' right? Ayana: Yes. That is hypothesis #7. Ayana: Every single person is 'me,' including the miserable wretch and the beautiful girl. Ayana: Both the young man who becomes a bully and the young man who is bullied. Ayana: The pathetic, the filthy, the beautiful, and the proud. All of them are 'me.' Ayana: The entire world is made up of 'me.' That's why I can understand you. Ayana: I understand your pain. I understand your sadness. I understand your happiness. Ayana: The world has an infinite number of 'me.' Yuki: That's a really grotesque theory, isn't it? Ayana: But hypothesis #7 would explain everything. It would explain everything which you felt was incomprehensible in this world. Yuki: That's not the only explanation. There are plenty of explanations that would explain it. Yuki: God created the world as it is five minutes ago. Martians came to Earth and messed with the memory of everyone on Earth. You could come up with as many ridiculous explanations as you want. Yuki: But those are all... Ayana: Places whereof we cannot speak. Yuki: Haa... So what then? What does it mean if hypothesis #7 is correct? Did the first soul come into existence when the world's first lifeform was born? Yuki: Or did it all come from some kind of special place in time or space? Did everything originate from a certain point like that? Ayana: Hehehehe. It could be said to start from any point you wish. Ayana: For instance, maybe it started at the moment of Takashima Zakuro-san's suicide. The ubiquitous transmigration of souls. Yuki: Living through the same world over and over as different versions of 'me'... So you mean she might've lived through a different future? Ayana: Or perhaps it was on that summer day when Yuki-san died in Sawaimura when the soul began its ubiquitous transmigration. Ayana: Or perhaps it was a mysterious point in the past which you don't remember. Perhaps everything began at one point, when the End Sky appeared. The ubiquitous transmigration of souls... Yuki: When the End Sky appeared? Yuki: What do you mean? Is there such a point? Ayana: It's just a hypothesis. That is one more possibility which you could imagine. Ayana: A certain point, a day which was called the end of the world... Even though the world ended at that point, the soul continues to make the world loop time and time again, as if it still existed. Yuki: What kind of hypothesis is that? Ayana: It's just an annotation. It's just one more kind of explanation which we could come up with. Ayana: I don't know whether you prefer that explanation over the last. Yuki: If I... prefer it? Yuki: Haa... I closed my eyes. ... Maybe the world ended a long time ago, in the distant past. The soul which I call 'me'... I feel like it must have taken these same actions millions or billions of times already. Maybe I acted the role of every single one of the world's souls. At times I'm Minakami Yuki. At times I'm Mamiya Takuji. At times I'm Yuuki Tomosane. At times I'm Takashima Zakuro. At times I'm Mamiya Hasaki. At times I'm Wakatsuki Kagami. At times I'm Wakatsuki Tsukasa. At times I'm Minakami Yuki. At times I'm Mamiya Takuji. At times I'm Yuuki Tomosane. At times I'm Takashima Zakuro. At times I'm Mamiya Hasaki. At times I'm Wakatsuki Kagami. At times I'm Wakatsuki Tsukasa. And... Once again... I feel as if I'm doing it all for the first time. Well... It doesn't really matter either way. Now... That's it. The sky. It's the sky. I can see the sky. Why is the sky... Why is the sky blue? And why... Why do we sense that it is blue? The endless sky. The blue of the sky. It must be... ...probably. Where does the sky lead to? It must... It must lead to the skies of all the rest of the world. Which means that this sky leads to... The End Sky. No, they're not connected. ... Because, after all... That is... Something which must not be true. But... Is that true? "――――" A voice called out to me from somewhere. The voice of a classmate was calling out to me. I turned around. Miu: Otonashi Ayana-saaan. Ayana: Hello. Miu: Haa, haa... Jeez, I was looking for you! Miu: Gosh, why are you alone here? The graduation ceremony is starting. Ayana: It's starting... Miu: That's right. It's starting right now. Ayana: Hehehehe... Miu: Wh-What is it? Ayana: It all just ended, and now we're starting again? Miu: Huh? Ayana: No, never mind. Let's go. Ayana: Let's go to that point where it all begins.
The wind was just a little bit chilly. As the chilly wind blew in our faces, we held hands and walked forward. The first step into everyday life. We took one completely normal step into the future. We are grateful for every moment... As we move forward in life... As we go... let's laugh together. I promised myself in my heart that we would. Just like so many other lifeforms. I too took that first step. * What lies before me... * Is probably... A Wonderful Life.
Hehehehe. I am the one called Otonashi Ayana. This place is just one boundary. It is a place where a soul can repeat its journey as many times as it wishes. The world will change depending on the choice you make here. This is a question from me. Minakami Yuki-san. Mamiya Hasaki-san. And the End Sky. Or perhaps you have yet to awaken from the dream? Where is the place you call 'now'? Hehe, hehe. The world which you will soon see is your world too. Let's go to another beginning.

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