As the sun set into dusk, Ryuji and Rinko spent the rest of their time sparring. Ryuji was beginning to feel regret, as he had underestimated Rinko's stamina and her desire for a good fight. Yet he couldn't bring himself to call it off. After all, he was the one who had asked for this and make a speech about making her happy.
Rinko swung hard. Ryuji barely blocked, and then crumpled to the ground, chest heaving, sweat pouring off him. ‘I can't do this anymore. Please, let this end.’
She was breathing hard too, but she managed a glance at the clock. "Oh! It's 6:00 P.M. already? We've been at this for hours. Let's call it.”
‘Thank you, Gods.’ "Yeah, time to call it and head home."
"Think we could make a quick stop?"
"Stop where?"
She gives a simple smile. "To a candy shop."
A candy shop? Well, having some sweets would be a good way to end the day. Though he'd already eaten a bento before their sparring match, it might ruin his appetite for dinner. Whatever, he hadn't had sweets in days.
As they left the Academy and headed to the candy shop, the streets were quiet and calm. After a few minutes, they arrived at the shop. It looked pretty old but still had that nostalgic, old-time charm. They entered and were greeted by a very nice old lady name Inage Natsu. Her soul felt weird to him, but he dismissed it as another Taimanin-related strangeness. They bought some dango and went their separate ways.
Alone now, Ryuji savoured the dango, letting the chewy texture and gentle sweetness melt across his tongue. ‘Man, sweets make everything better.’ He made a mental note to scout out more sweet shops in the area. Ensuring a reliable supply of sweets.
Ryuji arrived at the Mizuki manor and started taking a shower to wash away the sweat. A nice hot shower made his sore muscles feel much better. He wished he could stay here forever, but sadly he couldn't. Once he finished, he dried off, changed into his casual clothes, and went down for dinner.
Dinner felt like something he'd rarely experienced, a real family meal. When Shiranui began clearing the plates, he seized the moment. "Yukikaze," he said quietly, "can we talk? Privately?"
"Sure. What do you want to talk about?"
"This is about Shiranui."
"Mom? Why? What's wrong?"
"Don't you feel she's too attached to me?"
Yukikaze blinked, then let out a small, relieved breath. ‘That's what this is about?’ She shook her head gently. "It's fine, Ryuji. My mom's been through a lot of… things I won't go into. But she's aware of how she acts. And honestly? I really doubt she's trying to start anything with you.”
Ryuji sighed and decided to get straight to the point. "Yukikaze. I slept with your mom last night."
The air crackled. "YOU WHAT?!"
Sparks danced around her as her jaw hung open. Ryuji raised a calming hand. "We didn't actually do anything. She just used me as a body pillow to help her sleep last night. But you see the problem, right?"
Yukikaze forced herself to breathe. "Okay… okay. What do you need from me?"
"Replace me. Be her body pillow. Someone she can talk to. Basically, become an emotional support human."
She groaned. "That sounds exhausting, and it'll kill my gaming time. Are you sure it that serious?" The conversation she'd shared with her mother during their bath had already shown her the true depth of Shiranui's pain. Her mother knew. Yukikaze was certain of that. Shiranui recognized her own struggles and was doing everything she could to keep them in check.
Ryuji's voice flattened. "Do you want to call me Daddy?"
Silence. Then, through gritted teeth. "Fine." She turned and walked away. Yukikaze wasn't about to risk that outcome.
"Sheesh, don't be too upset. I'll help out when I'm back from the mission, okay?"
Well, that turned out well. Now he needed to get to the computer to start his research. It was in the mansion office, where the head of the household resided, if he wasn't mistaken.
.
.
.
The mage spent time on Google Maps, searching for further clues. The spiral tower caught his attention briefly, but he kept scanning. Shops, buildings, anything that might stand out. Then he found it, Edogawa Private Detective Agency.
Members like Gouriki would gravitate toward legitimate work. He clicked on the Agency's page and started scrolling through photos and videos. His right eye twitched. There he was, the Head of the Tokyo Branch, standing right in front of the building. Flashing a peace sign like some tourist posing for a holiday picture.
Ryuji guessed playing in plain sight was the better approach. Still, no one had found them out? The Commander may have learned from his last mistake.
He needed more information. The Agency had been founded five years ago. How did they manage that? You don't just open a detective agency without questions being asked. Unless you had leverage, or someone looked the other way. He dug deeper. Five years ago, Tokyo had suffered a terrorist attack. Interesting timing.
Did they orchestrate it? No, that wasn't their style. They didn't do senseless violence. So what, then? Did they simply see an opportunity and leverage it? Make a deal with someone in the government when chaos makes them desperate? He'd have to ask the commander tomorrow.
He shifted his focus, scanning the shops and businesses scattered across the city. Normally, Militia Agents took mundane jobs to maintain their cover. But here, with the Agency as their legitimate front, they didn't need that. Still, he suspected some members would keep doing what they loved anyway. Like Oiwa with his clinic, and Olaf with his ice cream shop.
He couldn't find Oiwa's clinic, but Olaf was easy to spot. That Russian man had even promoted his shop on social media like Instagram. Ryuji smiled despite himself. Even in another world, Olaf had built something good for himself.
That was enough for now. But maybe he should push further. Information about Japan, China, Asia, the entire world. It would take an hour, maybe. Sleeping late wouldn't hurt.
Knock, Knock, Knock
A soft knock broke the silence. "Come in."
Then the door opens revealing Shiranui. “Hello Ryuji-kun, still working?”
“No, I’m already finished. But I’m planning to continue researching. Nothing wrong been over prepared.”
Shiranui simply smiled. “Well don’t work too hard. You need those energies for tomorrow. Oh and Ryuji-kun, here.” She gives him a box. “A new phone for you.”
“Thank you Shiranui-san.” Then he takes the box and opens it revealing just an ordinary smartphone. ‘I was expecting something more futuristic like a see-through but guess no one had innovated better from the standard.’ “Thank you for the phones and the guns.”
“Don’t be, you’ve done so much for me. It is the least I can do”. A pause. Her cheeks flushed. "Ryuji-kun… would you stay with me tonight?"
There it was. Ryuji met her eyes. "Why not ask Yukikaze to sleep with you instead?"
Shiranui's flush deepened. "That's… embarrassing. Asking my own daughter, who's in high school, to share my bed."
Ryuji's internal voice was dry. ‘And asking a guy you've known for a few days isn't?’ But outwardly, he sounded supportive. "Don't be. She's your daughter. I'm sure Yukikaze would understand. Plus, this is an opportunity for mother-daughter bonding. After all, you have years to catch up on after being missing."
Shiranui thinks for a moment until she relents. “You're right, I should take this opportunity. Thank you Ryuji-kun.” With that, she left.
Ryuji sighed with relief. Tomorrow, he would bring out the statue of Kannon to pray that Shiranui's health would improve quickly. He couldn't help but feel he was about to break. He just wanted to go to bed now and wake up early tomorrow
.
.
.
Dawn broke over the Mizuki manor's backyard. One by one, Ryuji carried out these heavy statues. Kannon, whose mercy healed the wounded mind. Bishamonten, who granted fortune in battle. Fudō Myō-ō, the Immovable One who cut through sin with clarity. And finally, Miyatake Jimei, his ancestor and founder of the clan, watching across generations. They had sat in the Sanctuary, but prayers needed open air. In the Sanctuary, a pocket space, the deities and his ancestor might not hear his prayers.
He arranged them carefully, placing flowers at their bases. Then he knelt, hands together. Some would call it pointless, praying to stones in an empty yard. But in the world of the supernatural, these deities had once walked among men. They had left long ago, but their essence lingered. If one found a way to invoke it, a blessing could still come. Most were useless now, in a world with fewer wars. But not entirely useless. Still, one could use them for other things, like increasing the chance of winning an Overwatch tournament or a Starcraft 2 match. Those technically counted as war and battle.
Of course, this was another world. They might not exist here at all. Still, he prayed, if only for peace of mind. He knew that whether he was in his world or this one, they wouldn't answer. Not directly. He would have to increase his affinity with them, perform rituals, just to receive a small sliver of blessing.
"Kannon, please heal Shiranui's mind. Bishamonten, grant me fortune when I fight. Fudō Myō-ō, give me clarity against the sins I’m facing." A pause. "Jimei, watch over me. And Mother… if you can see this, watch over me too."
One sharp clap. He rose and walked back inside. Then he spotted Yukikaze looking at him.
"I didn't take you for someone who prays."
"Well, that's one new thing you've learned about me." Ryuji stretched his body. "That was a good workout. I'm going to take a shower." Ryuji left, leaving Yukikaze alone at the backyard.
Yukikaze walked over to the statues, looking at them curiously. Him decorating them with flowers, with such calm and clarity, was strange. But there had been signs yesterday, like him entering meditation during PE class. It was rare to see someone actually pray. Some Taimanin households housed these statues, but they were mostly for decoration. So seeing someone genuinely praying for them was new to her.
She lingered for a moment longer, then pulled out her phone and snapped some quick pictures before heading inside.
.
.
.
Ryuji makes his way to school with Yukikaze and the Akiyama siblings. Looking around making sure they were just the two of them he decided it’s time. “Guys can I ask you a favour?”
“What is it Ryuji?” Rinko was the one who answered first. Good mood from yesterday.
“Promise me, PROMISE ME. Don’t tell anyone about this.”
Yukikaze looked at him weirdly. “What's so serious about this?”
Ryuji said. “There is a demon spy in the Academy.”
The three stops. Tatsurou speaks. “Wait senpai? Are you serious? How did you know this and who?”
“Muroi Mitsuhiko, the academy medical staff. And I know this through my Third Eye, he definitely a demon.”
“Muroi Mitsuhiko?” Rinko started to think. “Oh him, I think I know him. But I don’t think any students would talk about him? In fact, it's like he is barely in the Academy.”
“Explain further.” Ryuji asks. He needs to know more.
Yukikaze picked up the thread. "I mean, he treats students when they need it. But… it feels like he's not really present, you know? Like he phases in and out."
"Forgettable?"
"Yeah. Exactly that."
Rinko cut in. "We need to report this to a teacher. If Muroi really is a spy, we should let them handle it."
"And what proof do we have?" Ryuji countered. "Even if the teachers trust our word, that's all the time he needs to escape. He likely has allies among them, or people close to them who'd warn him."
"Then what do you suggest?" Rinko asked.
"You guys spy on him, gather information as much as you can. Since I will be busy with the mission today."
Three voices echoed in unison. "Eh?!"
Tatsurou hesitated. "Senpai… spy on him? I don't know. Our track record isn't great." His mind drifted back to Yomihara.
"Relax, would you? This will be much easier since you're doing it in a safe location. Just ask around the students, watch what he does most of the time, and talk to him."
Yukikaze puffed up. "You can count on us, Ryuji. After all, we got experience."
Tatsurou face-palmed. Ryuji raised an eyebrow. "Experience doing what, exactly?"
"Infiltrating UnderEden, of course. We would've succeeded if you hadn't butted in." Even Rinko nodded along.
Ryuji's eyes narrowed, anger flickering. "That was your idea of infiltration? Because if that was, it was the shittiest attempt I've ever seen."
Yukikaze flared with anger, but Ryuji spoke over her first. "Tatsurou, watch over these idiots. You're clearly the smart one in this group."
"Uh… sure, senpai?" Tatsurou said, confusion evident.
"OI!" Yukikaze raised her voice. "What's that supposed to mean, huh?"
Rinko asked as well, but instead of anger, she seemed more… ashamed. "I wish to know what you meant as well, Ryuji-kun."
Ryuji glanced at Yukikaze. "Hmm? You need me to spell out why accepting a slave contract is a bad idea? I guess I can't expect much from a flat-chested midget."
Lightning sparked from Yukikaze's clenched fists. The other two just stared at him, silently asking where he was going with this.
"You being quick-tempered makes sense. You need to act big to compensate for your petite body. Like a chihuahua. Makes me wonder what Tatsurou sees in you."
Now Ryuji directed his anger at Rinko. “Now you.” He points finger at her.
"M-me?" Rinko stammered, caught completely off guard.
Ryuji didn't let up. "You're supposed to be smarter than her. You're her senior. And you agree infiltrating a brothel known for slave contracts was a good idea?" He shook his head in disbelief. "How can you look like an honor student, act like an honor student, but be this much of a meathead? Did all your nutrients bypass your skull and go straight to your chest? That'd explain the size."
Rinko's shame curdled into something hotter. Her knuckles cracked as she clenched her fists.
Ryuji's brain finally caught up with his mouth. "I can feel you gearing up to hit me. Sadly for you, you can't. Because I have my TATSUROU SHIELD!" He spun, reaching for Tatsurou—
—only to find empty air. Tatsurou had already created a solid five meters of distance.
"Shit."
Ryuji was struck by Yukikaze's lightning and Rinko's punches and kicks. Once they were done, they left him lying on the ground, beaten and bruised, his shirt covered in dirt footprints.
Tatsurou crept closer and poked Ryuji with a stick. "Senpai… you okay? That was pretty stupid. Not like you at all." He knew Ryuji was sharper than this.
"Ugh…" Groaning could be heard as he slowly regained consciousness. "You can't be smart all the time. Even the smartest people have their dumb moments." With that, he stood up and walked beside Tatsurou toward the Academy.
"Tatsurou, I'm serious about you overseeing them. Yukikaze is too hotheaded, and Rinko is gifted as a fighter. But as a spy? She's terrible at it. I don't think she's good when it comes to social situations, and there's a possibility she might just attack him. I'm sure Muroi would see through her act. So it has to be you. You need to get closer to him."
Something about Tatsurou's heart beat stronger. The anxiety, the danger, and yet he couldn't help but feel pride. Someone was relying on him for something important.
"Oh, forgot to mention. Muroi is gay. So use your charm, Tatsurou."
And that feeling quickly went flat.
.
.
.
As the mage arrived at school, many students looked at him weirdly. He was beaten up, his shirt disheveled and dirty. Ryuji ignored them and went to the designated room where they could discuss their mission.
Inside, Asuka, Sakura, and Kirara were already gathered, deep in conversation. The moment he entered, three sets of eyes locked onto him.
Asuka's eyes widened. Sakura's hands flew to her mouth. Even Kirara, who prided herself on not caring about men, couldn't hide the flicker of worry in her gaze.
Ryuji checked the clock. Class was supposed to have started, but it didn't matter. Mission day meant automatic skip. Morning, afternoon, middle of the night. If you had a mission, you were excused.
"Ryuji-kun!" Sakura rushed over. "What happened to you? Who did this?"
"Don't worry about it. I just did something stupid." Ryuji sighed. He'd gotten angry for no reason. Still, he hated idiots. Especially those who couldn't even learn from their mistake.
“Well, alright." Sakura sat beside him. "Are you excited for this?"
Ryuji just showed a neutral expression. "Not really. Not the first time I've gone on a mission. If anything, this is actually more tame compared to most I've been on."
"Eh, really? Can you tell me about it?"
"Hm… Let me think." Ryuji took a moment. "Well, there was this one time I was searching for treasure on an island."
"Eh, really!" Sakura chirped up.
"Yeah, though it wasn't really my idea. Just one of my friends."
"Pfft, you really believe this guy?" Asuka, sitting there, giggled.
"Ignore her, Sakura. She's trying to ruin the magic."
"Okay, Ryuji-kun!”
"Right. Well, the story sucks, but here goes."
Sakura tilted her head. "Eh?"
"There were bugs everywhere. Barely any people on the island, and none of us had a clue about camping. Then, to top it off, shadow beasts harassed us all night." He paused for effect. "And the treasure? A piece of haiku. About friendship. Or something."
Sakura now looked disappointed.
“The only good thing was that we killed the big bad demon and released all the spirits trapped there to the afterlife. So, some benefits."
"Ryuji-kun! I wanted to hear something fun and exciting. Not how disappointing it was!"
"You didn't specify which part of my adventure you wanted to hear."
"Mhm…" Then she tickled him. "Take that, jerk!"
"Stop! That tickles!"
Ryuji fought back, tickling Sakura in return.
"Ryuji-kun! Stop!" They both burst into playful laughter while Asuka and Kirara simply sat there, acting like bystanders.
When the laughter faded, they realized their position. Sakura beneath Ryuji, his hands planted on either side of her, their faces inches apart. Her cheeks flushed.
"Uhm… Ryuji-kun? This is… kind of embarrassing."
His eyes went wide. He scrambled back. "S-sorry! I didn't mean to… Sorry." Ryuji coughed, forced himself to take a deep breath, and exhaled slowly. Right. What time was it? Departure was at 9 A.M. It was 8:30 now, the Agency would be open.
"I need to make a call." He stood and walked off, looking for somewhere quiet and alone.
Ryuji put enough distance between himself and the others, then made the call. The phone rang until it was picked up by a woman's voice. "Hello, this is the Edogawa Private Detective Agency. How can I assist you?"
"Hello, can I speak to the President of your Agency?"
"May I ask what this is regarding?"
"I'm an old friend of his. I really need to speak with him now."
"Oh, you're one of his old associates. Gin-san mentioned one of you might call. I'll transfer you to his office phone, just give me a moment."
She did, and Ryuji waited.
Ryuji waited. Then. "Good morning." A familiar voice. "President of the Agency speaking."
"Gin-san, it's me. Miyatake Ryuji."
"Ryuji? RYUJI-CHAN!" The voice exploded with excitement.
Ryuji winced. "Ugh. Yeah, it's me. How've you been, Gin-san?"
"Amazing! Absolutely amazing! I'm in love, Ryuji. head over heels for this mysterious masked woman!"
There was a pause. "...You okay? I'm heading to the Agency this morning. So I can listen to your love talk later."
"You're coming here? Wait, how did you know we were here?"
"I'll explain when I arrive."
"Alright. So, got a place to stay tonight?"
"Why tonight? It'll just be a quick visit to see all of you, that's all."
"Come on, I already have a place where you and your friend can stay."
"Fine… Wait, how did you know I'd be bringing someone?"
"You didn't exactly hide your activities in Yomihara, Taimanin."
So Gin had deduced that Ryuji had joined the Taimanin.
"I mean, I'm currently watching a video of you fighting multiple guys while defending a woman. So I take it the Taimanin are trying to reach out to us through you?"
"Ugh. I'm ending the call. See you at the Agency."
"See you later, Ryuji-chan." The line went dead.
Ryuji scratches his head. So there was a video of him fighting against the guards of Yomihara. He could only pray there are no consequences for this.
The mage then returned to the group, and Asagi was there. "Who were you talking to?" Ryuji had been expecting a demanding tone, but it was respectful.
Ryuji returned that respectfulness. "Just someone at the Militia. During my research, I found they were working at a job. So I called the establishment and managed to contact one of them."
"Good initiative, Miyatake-kun." Asagi nodded approvingly. "Are we ready to depart?"
"Still a bit early."
"Just making sure you haven't forgotten anything."
"I'm ready." He glanced at the others. "Everyone?"
"My first mission? I'm ready!" Asuka's voice was bright with excitement.
"Ready! Already packed," Sakura added with a grin.
"I'm ready." Onisaki's voice was quiet, almost reluctant. She looked away the moment she finished speaking.
.
.
.
On the stealth dropship, everyone had changed into casual clothes, nothing that would mark them as anything other than ordinary civilians. The others chatted while Ryuji remained quiet. His mind churned, calculating and scanning the girls. But they were just… acting like girls. Normal girls, not trained soldiers. Laughing, teasing, completely at ease.
Maybe he was overthinking it. Maybe the village really was a nice place to live. People like these girls, Tatsurou, Yukikaze, Shiranui, Rinko, Asagi. If these good people live in the village, maybe it wasn’t that bad.
Ryuji exhaled slowly. He was being paranoid all the time. He should relax, integrate, and become a proper member of the community.
Once he dealt with the spy, of course.
Still, one thing he couldn't help but notice was Kirara. Half-human Taimanin and half-demon. He couldn't help but wonder how that had happened. It was rare, really rare. He'd already found another half-breed, a girl with glasses and purple hair. Oh, and she'd noticed him staring. Kirara was giving him the stink eye now.
Kirara responded by turning the air cold around them. Ryuji countered by warming it. The two clashed silently, unnoticed by both Asuka and Sakura.
"You do know trying to make me cold is useless, right? I use fire magic."
"Then why do you keep staring at me? First at the cafeteria yesterday, and now here?"
Ryuji opened his mouth. "Well…" Then closed it. Ryuji couldn't really explain that he knew Kirara was a half-breed.
"That's enough, Kirara." Asuka decided to intervene.
"You too, Ryuji." Sakura followed suit.
“Hmph!" Kirara looked away, pointedly ignoring everyone.
Ryuji sighed, then turned to Kirara and offered a small bow. "I'm sorry for staring Onisaki-san. It won't happen again."
"Jeez, Ryuji. You like Kirara-chan or something?" Asuka's eyes sparkled with mischief.
‘What? No.’ He barely knew her. "I don't like her. I'm just… interested." There. That was safe. That was normal.
Asuka's smirk widened. "So you do have a crush on her."
"Geh!" The strangled noise escaped before he could stop it. Just noticed what he just said. He really needed to watch out for his choice of words.
"Hehe." Sakura giggled. "You sure have a funny reaction, Ryuji."
Ryuji face-palmed, hoping to hide the heat creeping up his cheeks. He risked a glance at Kirara, and froze. She was blushing too. ‘Probably just surprised.’ He told himself.
"I don't have a crush on herrrr…" The word trailed off into a mumble.
.
.
.
They arrived at Edogawa City. The town was bustling with life. They traveled through the streets, heading not to the Agency, but to a certain ice cream shop.
Sakura bounced beside him, eyes bright. "Hey, Ryuji! What should we expect? Is there gonna be a fight?"
"No. And a fight is something we should actively avoid."
"Hmm… But there will be, right?"
"No, there won't, Sakura. I know these people. They're really chill. You'd have to be genuinely awful for them to want to kill you."
"Then how are we supposed to prove to Asagi that we're ready for this?" Asuka asked, frustration creeping into her voice. "Wait, there's a crime city near here called Senzaki. Ryuji-kun, maybe we could…"
"No." His tone was firm. "I'll ask the Militia if there's a mission we can do, okay?"
"You'd better." Asuka's voice had an edge now.
Both sisters radiated impatience. They were desperate to prove themselves to Asagi, to earn their independence and finally take on real missions. It showed, in Sakura's barely contained battle-lust, in Asuka's demanding tone.
Ryuji came to a sudden halt. The girls stopped beside him, following his gaze. Ahead stood an ice cream shop, its entrance crowded with customers. Clearly a popular spot.
Asuka frowned. "This is the place?"
"No, but I want to visit a friend first." He pushed open the door, and they entered.
The shop was busy, alive with people. Ryuji looked toward the counter. And there he was, working behind it, making ice cream. “Hello mister, what can I get you?” Said the female employee.
“Hello, sorry for being rude, but can you bring Olaf over here? I'm an old friend, and I want a quick chat. Just say 'Ryuji' and he'll come over."
"Olaf-san? Sure, I'll bring him over." The staff left to fetch Olaf. About ten seconds later, a big Russian man with cyan hair and eyes rushed over and pulled Ryuji into a bear hug.
"Little buddy! I missed you so much!"
"I-I miss you too." Ryuji could barely breathe. "Please stop, you're breaking my spine."
Olaf released him with a chuckle. "Sorry, sorry." He looked past Ryuji at the others. "So who're your friends? Let me guess, you beat them up first, then made them like you? Your usual strategy?"
"What?" The girls exchanged confused glances.
"Olaf, that's in the past. I don't do that anymore."
"Right, hehe, sorry. So what are you doing here?"
"Just a quick visit before heading to the Agency."
"Ah, I see. Then how about some ice cream for you and your friends? On the house. What'll you have?"
Sakura didn't hesitate. "Orange."
Asuka smiled. "Vanilla with chocolate sprinkles."
Kirara tilted her head. "Peppermint, please."
Ryuji stepped up. "Oreo cookie ice cream, chocolate chip cookies as sprinkles, chocolate and caramel sauce on top. Medium size."
The three girls stared at him after that order.
.
.
.
"Mmm~" Ryuji walked ahead, thoroughly enjoying his absurdly elaborate ice cream. The others ate their simpler orders in relative silence, though their eyes kept drifting toward him. It wasn't just the ice cream. It was the smile. Genuine, warm, radiating with positivity.
He noticed. Without missing a beat, he scooped up a spoonful and held it out to Sakura with a smile. "Want to try?"
She blinked. "Uh… sure." She took a tentative bite. "Mmm. Too sweet for me."
He turned to Asuka. "Koukawa-san?"
Asuka held up a hand. "Hard pass."
Ryuji shrugged, then looked at Kirara. "Onisaki-san?"
Kirara froze. ‘Me?’ She hadn't exactly been friendly toward him. The offer caught her completely off guard.
"Want one?" Ryuji grinned, holding out his ice cream like it was the greatest treasure in the world.
She scoffed. "No. I don't want your disgusting, overly sweet garbage."
"You don't have to insult me, you know." The sadness in Ryuji's voice made Kirara wince, just for a moment. He took a bite of his ice cream and instantly perked up again.
They finished their treats and reached the building. Inside, they rode the elevator to the Agency's floor. Ryuji walked up to the receptionist.
"Hello, I'm Miyatake Ryuji. I'm here to visit the President."
She nodded. "Right. Gin said you were coming. Go on in."
The office inside was cozy, warm. Before Ryuji could take it in, a blur of lavender tackled him.
"Ryuji!" A woman with lavender hair and eyes, built like a warrior, wrapped him in a crushing bear hug. "Aunty Shoot missed you!"
"Gah! Not again!" His spine protested loudly.
"Oh, and who are these cuties? Are they your friends?"
"Y-yeah. Can you let me go, please?"
Shoot finally let go of him.
"Alright, girls, this is Shoot Lavender, and she is the Super Elite Magical Girl."
The girls could only blink, convinced this was some kind of joke.
"Alright, who's next?"
"Down here." A voice came from below.
Ryuji glanced down and grinned. "Ah, Koguma-senpai!" He scooped the small figure up and presented him to the girls like a trophy. "Everyone, meet Koguma. The dwarf."
"Oi! Put me down!" Koguma's face reddened with fury.
Koguma proceeded to grab the skin of Ryuji's left hand, twisted, which made Ryuji let go, and then stomped his foot, causing the floor to crack.
"Gah!"
"Treat me like that again, and I'll send you to a world of pain." Then he stormed away.
A pale figure glided over. "Ryuji! You alright? If your foot's broken, I can patch it up."
Ryuji tested his weight. "Ah, Oiwa-senpai. I'm fine, nothing broken." He straightened up. "Everyone, this is Myōga Oiwa."
"Hey." Oiwa waved, then leaned in close to Ryuji. "So. Which one?"
Ryuji blinked. "Which one what?"
Oiwa's voice dropped to a conspiratorial whisper. "You're living in a village full of hot sexy ninjas. It's gonna happen eventually. Trust me, I know." He sighed dramatically. "I was a victim of this world. Heh heh."
Ryuji stared at him. ‘Oiwa…’ So his senpai had fallen to the eroge curse. He wondered who. An image of Murasaki flashed through his mind. He shook it away violently. Later. He'd ask later.
He scanned the room. "Ah, Gouriki-san."
Gouriki looked up briefly. "Ryuji-kun." A nod, then back to his laptop.
"That's Gouriki Isamu. And the one with the glasses and stubble, Carl Clockwork."
"Hey, everyone." Carl gave a casual wave without looking up, one hand buried in the guts of a half-dismantled computer. Sparks showered around him like metallic rain, but he didn't seem to notice.
"And that should be everyone."
"Not everyone," Oiwa said. "We have other members, even new ones, but they're busy with their daytime jobs. They'll arrive today."
Huh. So they'd recruited someone from this world. "Alright, then where's Gin's room? I want to talk to him."
"It's right over there."
.
.
.
Ryuji stepped into the room and found him. The silver fox himself, lounging behind the desk. "Hello, Commander."
"Don't be so serious, Ryuji-chan. Just call me like you usually do."
Ryuji sighed and took a seat.
"So, Ryuji, how much do you know about this world?"
"I know it's an eroge visual novel world."
"Do you know it even has a gacha game?"
"What?" ‘Those shitty pay-to-win games that promote gambling?’
"There are a lot of characters in this world, many factions from inside and outside of Japan."
Ryuji rubbed his eyes, already exhausted.
"So I'll ask again: how much do you know about this world?"
"Not much. Just the basics. Taimanin work with the government. There are demons hiding among people. And there are hidden criminal cities."
"Alright, I'll give you the rundown. Let's start with the more dangerous one, the one in closest proximity. NOMAD."
"NOMAD?"
"In public, it presents itself as a normal corporation concerned with charity and egalitarian acts. But in private, they're a powerful criminal organization that employs demons. Hell, all of their higher-ups are demons. Those guys are very dangerous. They're active everywhere, especially in the crime cities. Their high-ranking members are powerful, so avoid them as much as you can."
"Next is Dragon Gate. It presents itself as a Chinese triad, but again, it's nothing more than a proxy for the PLA Intelligence Agency. At least until your grandfather put a stop to it. Now it's not a proxy anymore. They went independent and became an actual criminal organization. Plus, thanks to the PLA purge, many fled with resources, which boosted them considerably. They mostly operate in Tokyo Kingdom."
"Wait, Grandfather is here?"
"Yup. He's in China right now, busy running the new department."
Ryuji wanted to ask more, but he focused on what was important. "What next?"
"Criminal cities. You've seen Yomihara. Senzaki's just south across the river. And then there's the big one, Tokyo Kingdom. Artificial island city."
Ryuji blinked. "Artificial island? Who builds something like that? The cost alone, and in Japan? Where earthquakes and tsunamis happen.”
Gin shrugged. "Government corruption. Works wonders."
Ryuji sighed and gestured for him to continue.
"Now for the outside threats." Gin turned his screen. "The Chinese Union? Your grandfather handled them. They're not a problem anymore. That leaves the UFS—United Federation of American-Pacific States."
Ryuji studied the map. "Looks like a coalition."
"Looks being the keyword. The US forced them in. Coups, assassinations, bombings. It’s join or else. They've got a presence in Japan too. Task Force G, the Defense Science Office." Gin's tone softened. "The DSO? That's the good one. If you run into them, play nice. That's where my beloved works."
Ryuji gave him a sidelong glance. "Then what about the Chinese Union? They look like they control countries way past their original borders."
"Trust me, the Chinese Union is much better than the UFS. They don't go on terror campaigns to subjugate nations hell these nations are not in control they have autonomy. The Chinese Union, though its proper name is the Asian Union Army, is essentially a military coalition created in response to UFS aggression in Asia. Many nations sought the People's Republic of China for protection, and that's how it was formed."
"Hmm, then let me ask: is the Japanese government under the UFS?"
"No, not officially. Their relationship soured after the Taiwan Crisis. But they still support them."
"The Taiwan Crisis… I've read about it in the Academy's history textbooks. It doesn't really explain much, just blames the PRC as the aggressor."
"Ah, that." Gin leaned back. "You know how in the past, the US sold weapons to Taiwan, turning it into another military base to project power. They'd sail their navies into China's seas just to mock and harass. Years of building up Taiwan, supporting far-right parties. Finally, Taiwan declared independence from China. That started a war. Which dragged the US, Japan, and South Korea into it."
"I heard that China had allowed Taiwan to act autonomously in the region, even permitting trade with the mainland. They only took action when Taiwan started taking sides."
"Yup. As long as Taiwan stayed on China's side, or at least remained neutral, they were fine. Anyway, during the war, China imposed trade embargoes on all the US allies. Their economies were decimated. Even the US suffered, they forgot that China was the world's factory. Most of their imported goods are produced in Chinese factories."
“What about militarily?”
“Of course the PLA won, they had the home advantage, launching ground hypersonic and coastal missiles to US and Japan navies forcing them to leave. Making Chinese navies uncontested. They surrounded Taiwan and launched attacks on several US and Japan's Naval bases. Taiwan slowly starves until they can’t take it and overthrow the Taiwan far-right government. With that China won.”
"The US couldn't have recovered from that."
"They did. Somehow. Even when their economy was cut off from China and falling down hard, they still bounced back. Funny thing, that's exactly when NOMAD first appeared. Showing up to aid war victims, treat injured soldiers."
Ryuji's eyes narrowed. "You're not suggesting…"
"The US got their hands on hell technology. Gave them the edge they needed. Made them a dominant superpower again."
Ryuji sighed, taking in all the information he was receiving.
"Are you satisfied?"
"There's more, isn't there?"
"Yes, but this information is enough to help you in Tokyo."
"Still, I have to ask about the alliance with the Taimanin."
Gin smirked. "We accept, I think we should stop hiding from them. Despite our different in ideals we still share the same goal of defending the innocent."
Ryuji blinked, caught off guard. "That was… faster than I expected. What changed your mind?"
"Someone very persuasive." Gin's voice softened, just slightly. "The one who stole my heart."
.
.
.
"Ryuji! Are you done? We're waiting here, bored out of our minds!" Asuka was getting impatient.
Ryuji's eyes narrowed. "Did you expect action? It's a diplomatic mission first."
"You said you'd ask if there was any fighting we could do!"
"Yes, I did. I'm getting there, okay? Be patient."
Before Asuka could open her mouth, a door opened, revealing a face she knew well.
Kyousuke, her long-lost foster father, stepped in. "Hey guys, I brought some donuts." Then his eyes landed on Asuka, and he froze.
"Dad?" Asuka trembled, slowly approaching. "DAD!" She launched herself at him.
"Asuka!" Kyousuke stumbled back, caught between pain and shock. The girl he'd helped raise with Asagi was here.
"The donuts!" Carl shouted, lunging to save the doomed pastries.
"Ambush!" Chung Ae appeared, pulling Asuka off Kyousuke. "Don't worry, Lord Kyousuke! I'll get rid of her!"
"No, you don't need to do that! I know her!"
"Daddy, I missed you so much!"
"Daddy?" Oiwa frowned, disappointed. "Kyousuke… I didn't take you for a sugar daddy. I expected better."
"I'm not that kind of—" Another body crashed into him. "Gah!"
"Big Brother Kyousuke!" Sakura had joined the pile. "You've been here the whole time?"
Asuka froze mid-hug, realization dawning. "If you're here… then that means…"
"What's with all the noise? Are you guys that excited for donuts?" Kosuke entered and saw the chaos, until his eyes landed on familiar faces.
"Kosuke-kun!" Asuka jumped on him, hugging him fiercely. Her little brother, all grown up and handsome. She could feel his hard, toned muscles, he must have worked very hard.
"A-Asuka, stop hugging me so tightly! I-I can feel them." Kosuke's face reddened as he became acutely aware of exactly what was pressed against him.
.
.
.
After the chaos subsided, Ryuji asked the question. "So these are the new members?"
"Well, not exactly new. They've been with us for years, except the korean." Gin said.
"I'm Sawaki Kyousuke."
"And I'm Sawaki Kosuke."
Chung Ae said reluctantly. "I'm Chung Ae."
"Nice to meet you all. I'm Miyatake Ryuji. I occasionally help these guys on some missions."
"So you're not a full-fledged member?" Kyousuke asked.
"We work with the same organization but not the same branch."
Then Gin stepped forward. "Kyousuke, show them your sword."
"Sure." Kyousuke complied, summoning his sword from thin air. Surprising Asuka and Sakura, who had never seen him do this before.
But Ryuji's eyes widened, and his body trembled. "The legendary Demon-Slaying Sword, Okami… Then that means…"
"Correct." Oiwa explained. "He is the reincarnated Sword Saint."
Ryuji collapsed to his knees, the weight of years pressing down on him. The one who taught him swordsmanship. His big brother figure. The man who died protecting him. Tears welled up as guilt wrenched his heart. "I-I'm sorry…"
"He forgives you." Kyousuke's voice was gentle. "I can feel it, somewhere in my soul. He didn't regret dying to protect you."
Ryuji wiped his eyes, steadying himself. When he spoke, his voice was low, meant only for Gin. "How? How did the Sword Saint's soul end up here? This isn't our world. He always reincarnates in our Japan."
Gin just shrugged his shoulders. "I don't know. Ask Susanoo. He's the god responsible for the Sword Saint's rebirth."
Ryuji's mind churned. Even Gin didn't know. People from his world were crossing over. Divine things too. What the hell was happening?
Kosuke cleared his throat. "About the missing children case… who will I be working with?"
"You'll be with Ryuji."
Ryuji blinked. "What?"
Gin gestured toward Asuka and Sakura. "Your friends look like they're about to explode if they don't get a fight soon."
Ryuji followed his gaze. Two pairs of wide, pleading eyes locked onto him. Puppy-dog eyes. The deadliest weapon. He sighed. "Fine."
Kosuke looked uncertain. "Is that okay, Gin-san?"
"Ryuji's solid. Most reliable guy I know. Also holds the title of Japan's Strongest Teenager."
Ryuji's face flushed. "Gin-san! That's not something you just announce!"
Kosuke stared at him with new respect. "I'm in your care, Miyatake-senpai!"
'Senpai. He called me senpai.' Ryuji straightened. "You won't regret it, Kosuke-kun. And call me Ryuji." His diplomatic mission was finished, so there was nothing wrong with spending this extra time helping the Agency. Plus, these girls needed an outlet. He just prayed it would be an easy one.