I started playing ayakashi : romance reborn the other day and I was like, wow! This Toichiro guy kinda reminds me of Clavis.. BRO THEY HAVE THE SAME VA TOO GET OUT
Welcome to Ayakashi Romance Reborn fandom that's doubtfully alive and presumably dead but you moght find some people hanging here and there and I'm one of them!!! 👋🏻👋🏻👋🏻👋🏻👋🏻💖💖💖💖💖💖💖
This is a fan-teanslation so expect some misspelling and misinformation here and there, this the first time I translate something THIS big so bear with me ... Each post will be 2 chapter until I finish because I can't post all chapters in one post or Tumblr might die on me ...
Also, sorry about the month absence... Tumblr was weird last month...
LIKES, COMMENTS, AND REBLOGS ARE APPRECIATED PLEASE AND THANK YOU !!!!
I left Koga and Aizen in the office and was shown to a separate room.
Ichijo: "Please, have some tea. You might be thinking, 'It's just military tea,' but it’s actually quite delicious."
Futaba: "……Thank you very much."
Ichijo, the man who guided me here, speaks to me kindly, but—
(……I couldn't tell Aizen about Kagari.)
(I thought I should listen to what Koga has to say first……)
With something weighing on my mind, I remained restless even as we engaged in small talk.
Futaba: "...I... can't do it."
Before I knew it, the words had left my lips.
Kagari: "...Oh, really? I thought you, of all people, would understand. Well, it's the answer you chose for yourself. That's fine, isn't it? But in exchange— You’d better keep your eyes peeled for what’s about to happen."
(……Because I turned down Kagari’s offer.)
The incident in Asakusa was undoubtedly triggered by my answer.
(I never imagined something like that would happen.)
Someone who looked exactly like Koga, swinging his blade at innocent people.
(Ugh, that sight is burned into my mind and won't leave.)
Naturally, my grip tightened on my teacup.
Ichijo: "…"
Ichijo glanced at my hands, and his voice suddenly took on a serious tone.
Ichijo: "…The Major may seem strict, but he is actually a very kind-hearted person."
Futaba: "Eh?"
Ichijo: "Ah, I’m sorry. You probably wonder why I’m saying this after everything that happened. But even during the 'Red Eye Incident,' the Major was hurting more than anyone. I believe he is truly grateful to all of you who lent us your strength."
Having said that much, Ichijo looked at me and gave a warm smile.
Ichijo: "Our desire to protect the citizens of the Capital is the same as the Major's. And that includes you, Miss Saotome, and Mr. Kitamikado as well. So, it’s alright. I promise we will catch the culprit."
(Ah...)
I finally realize that he is trying to set my mind at ease.
(...Ichijo is such a good person.)
(When we were on patrol together, I didn't really get many chances to talk with the other soldiers...)
His feelings for the Capital are the same as ours—no, perhaps even—
(Ichijo and the others are people who work while putting their lives on the line for this country.)
Futaba: "...Thank you very much. You were trying to cheer me up, weren't you?"
Ichijo: "No, I was only telling you the truth."
A Sudden Arrival
—Click (Sound of a door opening)
Immediately after I thanked Ichijo, the door to the room opened.
Koga: "Sorry to keep you waiting."
Futaba: "Koga...!"
Seeing Koga’s usual expression makes me feel relieved.
Koga: "We'll talk about the details later. I'm sorry, but for now, could you just do as I say?"
Futaba: "...! Yes, I don't mind..."
(I wonder if Koga has some kind of plan.)
Koga: "We're going to Toichiro's house."
Futaba: "To Toichiro's...?"
>>>>>>>
Without understanding Koga’s true intentions, I was led out of the Headquarters by him.
Toichiro: "...What business does a 'wanted man' have with me?"
As soon as Toichiro saw us, a mocking smile appeared on his face.
Toichiro: "Unlike you, I don't like sticking my nose into troublesome matters."
Koga: "I’m not 'sticking my nose in,' troubles keep coming toward me."
Toichiro: "Hmm..."
Toichiro fluttered that newspaper extra around, as if to show it off.
Toichiro: "I read what’s written here. I don't know if it's an Onmyoji doing or an Ayakashi, but there sure are people with bad taste out there, going so far as to transform into you.” (excuse me sir??!!!)
Koga: "The reason I came to your place is because I have a favor to ask."
Toichiro: "A favor?"
Koga: "Yeah. To put it simply, I want you to look after Futaba here for a while."
Futaba: "What!?"
Stunned by this sudden proposal, I look at Koga.
(Before we got here, he told me he’d explain everything in detail at Toichiro’s house.)
(I had no idea Koga was planning something like this.)
Koga: "Kiryu is trying to frame me to settle a grudge against my father. They know about Futaba, too. I can't guarantee she won't be put in harm's way from here on out. I'll feel more at ease if she's staying at your house."
Toichiro: "So you're telling me to be her bodyguard?"
Koga: "That’s exactly right."
(That means... in other words...)
Finally realizing his true intention, I stare at Koga.
Futaba: "Koga, you're going to Kobe, aren't you?"
Koga: "...Yeah."
Koga meets my gaze without wavering.
(He intends to go meet Kiryu all by himself.)
Koga: "I want you to stay here in the Capital. Just for this time, it's safer that way."
(I can tell he’s saying that specifically because he anticipates that I’ll want to go with him.)
Futaba: "I..."
As I’m trying to figure out how to put my feelings into words—
Toichiro: "Hey, hold on a second."
I’m interrupted by the calm voice of Toichiro, who gives a shrug.
Toichiro: "Taking her in... I don’t remember ever agreeing to that."
Koga: "...Sorry. But right now, this is the only way. I’ll explain about Kiryu later too."
Toichiro: "I already know about the Kiryu Trading and what happened in Kobe."
Koga: "...Hm?"
(Toichiro knows about the Kiryu Trading…?)
Koga: "...I don't recall telling you anything yet."
— Click (Door opening sound) —
The living room door opens, cutting over Koga’s voice.
Shizuki: "Excuse me."
There stands Shizuki, holding a tea set, and—
Kuya: "..."
Futaba: "Kuya!?"
Koga: "Hey, what are you doing here?"
Startled by the sight of Kuya entering behind him, Koga and I both cry out in surprise.
Shizuki: "Master Kuya has been here since before Master Koga arrived. Though he spent most of that time sleeping in the guest room."
Kuya: "I woke up from my nap and saw Koga arriving.”
Kuya flops down heavily onto the sofa.
Koga: "Why the heck are you at Toichiro’s house anyway?"
Kuya: "It’s so noisy at your place, I couldn't get a wink of sleep. Newspaper reporters keep barging in constantly."
Futaba: "O-Oh, I see..."
Koga: "Ah, so that’s it."
Koga looks at Toichiro, finally understanding.
Koga: "So you heard about the Kiryu business from Kuya."
Toichiro: "Pretty much. I figured I should know the circumstances, just in case."
Kuya: "So, what’s the plan?"
Kuya turns a rare, solemn gaze toward Koga.
Kuya: "In the Capital, everyone's completely convinced that Koga is the culprit. Since you bothered to come all the way to Toichiro’s place, I assume you have some kind of plan."
Koga: "Yeah. I’m leaving for Kobe tomorrow night."
Kuya: "...Why at night?"
Koga glanced at Shizuki and opened his mouth, wearing a similarly solemn expression.
Koga: "There’s someone I have to meet before then."
Shizuki: "……?"
Toichiro: "Honestly..."
Toichiro let out a heavy sigh and placed his hand on my shoulder.
Toichiro: "That’s one massive favor I’m doing you."
Futaba: "Ah..."
Toichiro: "I’ll look after your girl at my place. I'll be thinking about how I'm going to have you pay me back by the time you return."
Koga: "……Fine. I owe you one. But……"
Contrary to his words, Koga frowned bitterly and—
Koga: "Don't you touch her." (SIR!!! MY GOOD SIR!!!??)
He briskly swatted away Toichiro’s hand, which had been resting on my shoulder.
Assigned to a guest room in Toichiro's house, I opened the window and readied my charm.
Futaba: "...Go."
I stood still, watching the familiar fly away.
I intended to have the familiar tell my father that because of the incident in Asakusa, I would be staying at Toichiro's house tonight. I also added, "I am safe, so please don't worry," and "I'll tell you the details tomorrow."
(I might not be able to sleep tonight...)
Sitting alone on the bed in the large room, the events of today came rushing back to me in a dizzying blur.
(...I want to talk to Koga)
(He’s in a different guest room, right? Maybe if I go see him—)
Just as I stood up with that thought...
—Knock, knock—
Koga: "Futaba, do you have a moment?"
Futaba: "—! Yes!"
I opened the door to find Koga standing there.
Koga: "...Mind if I come in?"
Futaba: "Of course."
Koga stepped inside somewhat hesitantly, and we both sat down on the bed.
Koga: "Sorry for the late hour. I just really wanted to talk to you. I'm sorry for just deciding everything on my own."
Futaba: "No, it's..."
(I never expected Koga to be the one to come see me.)
I made up my mind and looked up at Koga.
Futaba: "Actually, there's something I need to tell you too."
Koga: "What is it?"
Encouraged by Koga to speak first, I told him about what happened with Kagari.
Futaba: "...I am truly sorry. Because I turned down the offer Kagari made me, it triggered everything that happened..."
As I said this, the tears I had been holding back began to well up in my eyes.
(—I mustn't cry.)
(Crying won't change anything.)
As I struggled to hold back my tears, determined not to let them fall—
Koga: "Futaba."
Koga placed his large palm gently on my head.
Koga: "You did well. What you did was right."
Futaba: "Koga..."
Koga: "Besides, there’s no telling how much of what Kagari says can actually be trusted anyway."
Koga: "I think the outcome would have been the same regardless of how you responded."
Futaba: "But..."
His kind words made the tears well up even more. As I bit my lip to keep from crying, Koga watched over me, stroking my hair.
Koga: "Listen, this conversation ends here. No matter what happens to me in the future, don’t you ever apologize. Promise me."
(...Even though Koga is the one going through a hard time.)
(Even so, he still says these things for my sake.)
Thinking of that made my chest tighten even more.
Futaba: "...Yes. I promise."
Koga: "Good."
When I nodded as if to take his words to heart, Koga gave a faint smile.
Koga: "There's something I want to tell you too."
Having said that, Koga told me about what happened after we went to the shrine of hidden god—
He shared everything he had heard from Kagemaru.
About the organization of ayakashi called the Senkitai, and how its first leader was Koga's father.
(Koga's father accepted the conditions set by the government, who had turned their backs on them once the new era began...)
And how, to Kiryu—who had looked up to Koga's father—that was a betrayal—
Koga: "That is the reason Kiryu... hates my father."
Futaba: "......"
I could only listen in silence.
(I don't know the real reason Koga's father accepted those conditions, but...)
(...I can somewhat understand why Kiryu would feel "betrayed.")
The strange feeling I’d always had about Kiryu’s words finally made sense to me now.
(In the first place, the government that captured the Senkitai—who fought alongside them—is the root of all this evil.)
Thinking that, I suddenly remembered Akiyasu.
(Akiyasu also resented the government because his father was killed by them.)
Humans, Onmyoji, Ayakashi—I wonder if these differences only ever lead to conflict.
Futaba: "Um... why did Kagemaru tell you all that? It's not that I doubt his story, but I'm wondering why he went out of his way to come and tell you, Koga..."
Koga: "Apparently, they're concerned about Kiryu’s movements over there, too. They said they’d lend us their strength if it’s to stop that guy."
(......!)
(The Senkitai is going to help Kouga-san...)
Koga: "I don't know the exact reasons, but… Including all that, I'm going to talk to him again tomorrow."
(Ah......)
Kuya: "...Why at night?"
Koga: "There’s someone I have to meet before then.”
(The person Koga said he was going to meet... was Kagemaru.)
Futaba: "Koga... are you okay?"
With a rising sense of unease, I quietly peered into Koga’s face.
(The incident in Asakusa, his father's past...)
(I feel like too many things are happening all at once.)
I was worried that even Koga might be reaching his limit, but—
Koga: "I'm surprisingly fine."
Contrary to my expectations, Koga answered nonchalantly.
Futaba: "Oh... really?"
Koga: "Well, I do feel like I've been dragged into a real mess, though. But I have you... and Toichiro and the others."
(—!)
Futaba: "...Yes."
I placed both of my hands over Koga's hand, which was resting beside me.
Futaba: "No matter what happens, everyone else and I are on your side, Koga. Please take care on your way to Kobe."
Koga: "Yeah..."
Then, Koga spoke as if he were trying to gauge my reaction.
Koga: "...Are you angry that I’m leaving you behind in the Capital?"
Futaba: (—Oh.)
Koga: "Once we're back in to Capital, for a little while, we should keep our distance—"
Futaba: "I... I refuse!"
Koga: "...!"
Futaba: "Please let me help, too. I’ll protect myself."
(Koga is talking about what happened back then.)
Koga: "It’s not that I don’t trust you. It’s just..."
Futaba: "It’s okay."
I cut Koga off and spoke firmly to reassure him.
Futaba: "I understand that this time, I would definitely just be in the way if I went with you. And besides..."
I slowly put my thoughts into words.
Futaba: "I have something I want to do in the Capital myself."
Koga: "Something you want to do?"
Futaba: "Yes. I feel like I've finally started to understand what Kiryu wants, thanks to this recent incident."
What I remembered were Kiryu's words and actions back in Kobe.
Kiryu: "I knew your father well."
Kiryu: "He was a man who desired the coexistence of humans and Ayakashi more than anyone. And yet, it was humans who killed him. Why do you remain so friendly with mere humans? Do you not hate them? If you, his son, do not avenge your parents', then who— I see... you are afraid, aren't you? Afraid of making humans your enemy."
(Those words of Kiryu's...)
(And the incident in Asakusa.)
The terrified eyes of the people I saw in Asakusa, looking at someone who had taken on Koga’s form.
(If that was what Kiryu wanted to achieve...)
Futaba: "I think Mr. Kiryu... wants to isolate you, Koga."
I looked directly at Koga in front of me and spoke with absolute conviction—
This is a fan-teanslation so expect some misspelling and misinformation here and there, this the first time I translate something THIS big so bear with me ... Each post will be 2 chapter until I finish because I can't post all chapters in one post or Tumblr might die on me ...
LIKES, COMMENTS, AND REBLOGS ARE APPRECIATED PLEASE AND THANK YOU !!!!
Only the sound of the trees rustling echoed through the area.
Koga: "...Give me a reason."
After a while, Koga finally spoke quietly.
Koga: "Why did you go out of your way to tell me that?"
Kagemaru: "...That bastard Kiryu is an eyesore to the Senkitai, too. So, just like you, I don't want him meddling any further."
Kagemaru blew out a puff of smoke from his pipe and smiled.
Kagemaru: "If you want to stop Kiryu, I’ll lend you a hand. He's the leader of a bunch of thugs in the Kansai region. If we just leave him be, he’s going to become quite a headache."
Koga: "..."
Koga remained silent, staring at Kagemaru as if trying to read him.
Kagemaru: "If you want my help, come here tomorrow at the same time. Well, regardless of your answer, I’m going to act on my own anyway."
After saying that, Kagemaru looked up as if sensing something.
—Whoosh!
In the next moment, a whirlwind kicked up between the two, and a large man appeared from within it.
Kagemaru: "Zantetsu, you’re late."
Zantetsu: "My apologies."
Zantetsu glanced at Koga and swung the large scythe he was holding.
—Whoosh!
An even larger whirlwind rose up, and when it settled—
Kagemaru, Zantetsu, and the Ayakashi that Koga had defeated had all vanished.
>>>>
Koga: (My father was the former leader of the Senkitai...)
He headed home, turning Kagemaru’s words over in his head.
Koga: (...I have no reason to doubt Kagemaru’s story. If that’s true, it explains why my father never wanted to talk about his life before joining the military.)
And the reason why Kiryu hates Koga’s father—
Kiryu: "Don't tell me you don't know? About your own father's past. Lord Ouga... once betrayed us, those who were supposed to be his comrades."
Koga : ("Betrayal"... huh?)
If the story from a moment ago is true, then Kiryu’s feelings are understandable.
Koga: (...But the only father I know is the one who became a soldier.)
"It doesn't matter if they're human or Ayakashi—I will protect everyone who lives in this country."
That was the conviction of the father Koga knew.
Koga: (There’s no way my old man would "abandon his comrades just because he wanted to live." ...Am I just thinking this because it’s convenient for me?)
A question without an answer that he has been carrying for a long time now.
Koga: (There is no way to know what my father was thinking back when he was in the Senkitai. That’s exactly why… I can’t deny the possibility that the father I know and his true self are different—can I?)
Koga: "..." (...Hm?)
Deep in thought, Koga suddenly noticed the piercing gazes of those around him and looked up. People passing on the street stopped in their tracks, whispering to one another while stealing glances at Koga.
Man 1: "Shouldn't someone call the authorities?"
Woman 1: "But... did Mr. Koga really...?"
Man 2: "It’s beyond just looking like him; they say it was him. Except he had horns growing out of his head or something..."
Koga: (What... what are they talking about?)
Man 3: "Well, it's not like I actually saw it myself."
Woman 3: "Look, I don't want to doubt Mr. Koga either, but… According to those who saw the scene, Mr. Koga’s appearance at the time was just like… a 'monster,' they say."
Koga: "..."
When he looked around, the eyes fixed upon him were a mixture of doubt and terror.
Boy: "Y-you, what on earth are you— U... Uwaaaaaaaaah!"
Koga: (Tch… No, stay calm.)
Koga: "......"
Koga took a deep breath, fixed his expression to look as normal as possible, and spoke to the owner of a nearby dry goods store.
Koga: "Yo. Did something happen?"
Shopkeeper: "Eek...!"
Being stared at by Koga, the shopkeeper clearly had a look of terror on his face.
Shopkeeper: "What do you mean, 'did something happen'... I mean..."
The shopkeeper's wife intervenes, and Koga is suddenly surrounded by soldiers.
Shopkeeper's Wife: "Help! He's Over here!"
A woman came out from the back, grabbed the shopkeeper, and pulled him inside the store.
Koga: "...! Hey—"
Just as he tried to call out to stop them, he suddenly felt multiple presences behind him.
Koga: "Tch...!"
Guarded, Koga turned around to find—
Ichijo: "You are Kitamikado Koga, I presume."
Members of the Onikiri were lined up in a row.
Ichijo: "Please accompany us to the Headquarters."
••°°••°°••°°••°°••
Koga is taken to headquarters, where he reunites with Futaba, only for things to turn hostile.
Koga: "..."
Koga was led by the Onikiri soldiers to Headquarters. Opening a familiar door, he found Kyonosuke and—
Koga: "Futaba!"
Futaba: "Koga!"
Futaba, who had been standing facing Kyonosuke, spun around.
Futaba: "Thank goodness... Koga."
Futaba showed a relieved smile and tried to run toward him.
Kyonosuke: "Wait."
Futaba: "...!"
Moving faster, Kyonosuke stepped forward to block Futaba and drew his sword.
Futaba: "No, Aizen!"
Kyonosuke: "I'm sorry, but there's no guarantee that Ichijo hasn't been deceived."
Kyonosuke pointed the tip of his drawn sword at Koga and asked in a sharp voice.
Kyonosuke: "Where have you been until now?”
Koga: "What are you...?"
Kyonosuke: "Answer me."
Koga: "... I was at the Shrine of hidden god. meeting with Yura."
Even at Koga’s answer, Kyonosuke didn't lower his sword; instead, he glared at Koga even more sharply.
Kyonosuke: "Then, what is the proof that you are indeed 'Koga Kitamikado'?"
Koga: "..."
After staring silently at Kyonosuke for a moment, Koga reached into his garment and pulled out a satchet.
Futaba: "...! That’s..."
Koga: "...I guess I'm busted."
Koga looks at Futaba and smiles, appearing just a little bit shy.
Koga: "I've been carrying it with me ever since then."
Futaba: "Oh..."
Futaba clutched her hands together tightly and stared at the satchet before turning her gaze toward Kyonosuke.
Futaba: "...There is no mistake. This is Koga... My Koga."
Kyonosuke: "...I see."
Kyonosuke finally exhaled and lowered his sword.
Koga: "Hey, what kind of farce is this? Why the hell did I have to have a sword suddenly pointed at me?"
Kyonosuke: "...If you read this, you’ll understand the situation."
Kyonosuke handed Koga a single sheet of paper that had been on the desk.
Koga: (A newspaper...... extra edition?)
Written there was an incident that occurred in the Capital earlier that evening—
>>>> Earlier: Futaba's POV :
It was after Kagari had left the sweets shop, leaving behind some unsettling words.
Crowd: "Someone was pushed off the Asakusa Twelve-stories tower!" "The culprit looked just like Mr. Kitamikado—"
Such commotions could be heard one after another from outside the shop.
(Lies... that can't be...)
Just as I turned pale instinctively—
Woman: "Kyaaa!"
An especially loud scream echoed from the direction of the street.
(What!?)
Drawn by the sound of voices, I stepped outside the shop and saw—
A massive crowd of people running toward me, as if fleeing from something.
(W-what is going on!?)
(—! That’s...!)
The moment I saw the figure behind the fleeing crowd, my feet felt as though they were nailed to the ground, and I couldn't move.
Futaba: "K-...Koga...?"
???: "Guaaaa!"
The person standing there, gripping a katana in the form of an Oni ogre and letting out a roar, was unmistakably Koga, no matter how I looked at him.
(It can't be...)
Liquor Store Owner: "What on earth happened, Mr. Koga...?"
Someone beside me muttered with a trembling voice, and then suddenly noticed me.
Liquor Store Owner: "Wait, aren't you that young lady…?"
Futaba: "Ah, from that time...!"
Liquor Store Owner: "No, no, it was just small talk. Mr. Koga was waiting for you, wasn't he? Hurry up, Mr. Koga, take your lady friend somewhere nice."
(It’s the owner of the liquor store who was with Koga when we met up.)
Liquor Store Owner: "Young lady, what is the meaning of this?"
Fear was seeping into the owner’s eyes as he looked at me.
Liquor Store Owner: "Why Mr. Koga is like this...?"
Futaba: "—That... that isn't Koga!"
The moment I answered instinctively, I felt a gaze and turned around.
???: "......"
My eyes met Koga as he sheathed his sword, and a chill ran down my spine.
(No, this person is different...)
They look nothing like Koga’s warm eyes that used to gaze at me so gently.
He is looking at me with eyes like those of a predator targeting its prey—reminding me of Koga when he's in carnage form.
Futaba: "...You are not Koga."
As I whispered those words clearly, perhaps my voice reached him—
The person approached me slowly and placed his hand on the hilt of his sword while keeping his eyes fixed on me.
Fake Koga: "......"
Then—
Liquor Store Owner: "No!"
The owner of the liquor store from earlier cut in between us.
Liquor Store Owner: "What do you think you're doing to a young lady? Get a hold of yourself!"
Futaba: "No, Leave, it's dangerous...!"
The owner spreads his arms and stands in my way as if to protect me.
Fake Koga: "......Move."
The person swung his sword, still in its sheath, toward the owner.
(—!)
Liquor Store Owner: "Urgh!"
Having taken the blow from the sword, the owner clutches his chest and collapses on the spot.
Futaba: "Ah......!"
Feeling a heat behind my eyes, I kneel down beside the owner—
(Why did it have to come to this......)
I glared at the person who looked exactly like Koga.
Futaba: "Koga would never do something like this...!"
Fake Koga: "......"
Futaba: "Who are you? Show me your true form."
Fake Koga: "......I am me. I am stronger than anyone."
Even the voice that answered was exactly like Koga’s, making the heat in my eyes sting even more.
Futaba: "...No, you're wrong. Koga is much stronger."
Fake Koga: "...!"
The moment I said that, the fake Koga’s expressions distorted for the first time.
Fake Koga: "I am...... strong......!"
Screaming that, he drew his sword and swung it down toward me.
(Ngh...!)
Just as I instinctively twisted my body to try and dodge the blade, a white cloak fluttered before my eyes.
Clang!
Kyonosuke: "......"
Futaba: "Major Aizen...!"
It was Aizen's sword that caught the blade.
Fake Koga: "Tch..."
After a brief struggle of clashing blades, the fake who looked exactly like Koga leaped backward.
Fake Koga: "......"
Kyonosuke: "It's useless to run."
Before anyone knew it, members of the Onikiri had surrounded him with guns drawn.
Fake Koga: "......!"
Poof!
In the next instant, a cloud of smoke erupted around the man.
Futaba: *Cough, cough*...
Kyonosuke: "A smoke screen...?"
By the time the smoke finally cleared—
(He's... gone!)
Kyonosuke: "Search the area. He couldn't have gone far. Medical unit, tend to the wounded."
Onikiri Members: "Yes, sir!"
As the Onikiri members scattered, Aizen turned back to me.
Kyonosuke: "Are you hurt?"
Futaba: "No, I'm okay..."
Although his voice was soft, Aizen stared at me with an overwhelming pressure that demanded no excuses.
Kyonosuke: "—Now, I'm going to need you to tell me everything."
And so, I was taken to the Headquarters.
>>> Now
Kyonosuke: "Between this and the incident at the Asakusa Twelve-Stories tower, this has become a major disturbance with several casualties. The newspapers have even issued extras, reporting the culprit as 'Koga Kitamikado.'"
Koga: "...!"
(That’s right... because that person really did look exactly like Koga.)
(But...)
What I remember is what happened right after Aizen brought me to headquarters.
When I was shown into the office, I’m sure I looked up at Aizen and said:
Futaba: "That wasn't Koga! I’m sure it’s the same person responsible for the street killings that happened before!"
Kyonosuke: "We don't have evidence yet. However..."
Aizen answers while letting out a small sigh.
Kyonosuke: "I'm starting to think the same thing."
(It seems Aizen also believes it wasn't Koga’s doing.)
(The problem is how to prove it...)
Then, Koga, who had been silently reading the extra edition of the newspaper, looked up.
Koga: "...I have an idea of who the mastermind behind this incident might be."
Kyonosuke: "And that would be?"
Koga looked straight at Aizen.
Koga: "From here on, I want to talk to you alone."
(!)
(I wonder if Koga intends to talk about Kiryu.)
Kyonosuke: "...Very well. Ichijo."
Ichijo: "Yes, sir!"
Kyonosuke: "Take her to another room. Sorry, Saotome, but I’ll have to ask you to wait there."
Futaba: "...I understand."
Ichijo: "This way, please."
I followed the man called Ichijo toward the office door.
Just before leaving the room, a wave of anxiety washed over me, and I looked back at Kouga-san.
Futaba: "Koga..."
Koga: "It’s okay. Don't worry.”
My favorite gentle-eyed man smiled at me, as if to reassure me.
°°°•••°°°•••°°°
Once the two of them were alone in the room, Koga turned to face Kyonosuke once more.
Koga: "First off, I don’t trust you military guys as far as I can throw you."
Kyonosuke: "……"
Koga: "But, we both want to catch the culprit, don't we? I want to stop those people in the Capital from being put in any more danger. In that regard, our interests are aligned. We should lend each other our strength."
Kyonosuke: “…I see. However, there is something I want to make clear first."
Kyonosuke paused for a beat and stared intently at Koga.
Kyonosuke: "Since that incident... have you ever turned into carnage form again?"
Koga: "…"
Koga stared back at Kyonosuke, as if trying to gauge the true intent behind the question.
Kyonosuke: "There is no clear proof that the man who appeared in Asakusa wasn't actually you. I've been considering the possibility that... the carnage transformation, it happened against your will."
Koga: "... I haven't… not since then."
Kyonosuke: "…Is that so? But if you ever lose control of yourself again……"
Kyonosuke fixed Koga with a piercing, sharp gaze.
Kyonosuke: "—This time, I will cut you down without mercy." (DON'T YOU DARE LAY A FINGER ON HIM😤)
Koga: "…"
For a while, silence filled the room—
Koga: "……Yeah, I understand."
Koga gave only a short reply.
Kyonosuke: "…Good. Now then, shall we get to the main point?"
The atmosphere shifted, and the threatening look in Kyonosuke's eyes softened just a little.
Kyonosuke: "Who is this 'mastermind' you speak of?"
Koga: "It’s likely…… the people from the Kiryu Trading.”
Kyonosuke: "......! The Kiryu Trading, huh?"
As soon as he heard that, Kyonosuke knit his brows in displeasure.
Kyonosuke: "Even the military is aware of their existence. But they are an opponent we can’t carelessly make a move against."
Koga: "......Can't make a move, huh?"
Kyonosuke: "It's partly because they have connections with foreign countries. They’re a troublesome lot."
As Kyonosuke finished saying that, he looked at Koga again.
Kyonosuke: "Regarding this current matter, it seems like their intention is to set you up. Is it a grudge related to your work?"
Koga: "No. Kiryu... to be precise, they don't hate me; they hate my old man."
Koga continued while watching Kyonosuke's reaction.
Koga: "My father was part of the Senkitai”
Kyonosuke: "......"
Kyonosuke’s expression did not change in the slightest.
Koga: "As for how he became a soldier after that... you probably know more about that than I do."
Kyonosuke: "...I suppose so.”
Koga: "Kiryu has actually approached me once before. At that time, he said my father was 'the kind of guy who abandoned his comrades out of a desperate desire to live.' It seems he still hates my father for leaving the Senkitai to become a soldier."
Kyonosuke: "...I see. So it's a feud dating back to your parents' generation..."
Koga: "I’m going to Kobe to settle things with Kiryu once and for all. I want to know why he’s so obsessed with my father and me... if there's something more between them than just 'betrayal'... I’ll meet him again and find out the truth. And I’ll put a stop to this nonsense."
Kyonosuke: "Is he really the type of person you can talk sense into?"
Koga: "I don't know. But..."
Koga: "To make sure there aren't any more useless sacrifices, I have to go to Kobe."
Kyonosuke: "......"
Kyonosuke stared intensely at Koga, then nodded.
Kyonosuke: "...Understood. We will capture the culprit behind today's incident. They should still be in the Capital."
Koga: "Yeah..."
After responding, Koga looked at Kyonosuke intently once more.
Koga: "Aside from that, I have a favor to ask of you."
Kyonosuke: "...?”
Kyonosuke raised his eyebrows slightly and waited for Koga to speak.
This is a fan-teanslation so expect some misspelling and misinformation here and there, this the first time I translate something THIS big so bear with me ... Each post will be 2 chapter until I finish because I can't post all chapters in one post or Tumblr might die on me ...
LIKES, COMMENTS, AND REBLOGS ARE APPRECIATED PLEASE AND THANK YOU !!!!
The next day, on my way home from school, my feet were once again leading me toward Koga's house.
(Koga told me I didn't have to come every day, but I'm just so worried...)
(Besides, I want to be of help to him in any way I can.)
(...I wonder if there's anything I can do?)
Lost in thought as I walked, I eventually came to a stop in front of a certain shop.
(Oh, that's right. I bought the satchet I gave to Koga from this shop.)
It was a shop that primarily dealt in fragrant wood, and also sold miscellaneous goods made from it.
(...I wonder how Koga's condition is doing?)
(I haven't heard any talk of the carnage form happening since then, and he always seems well, but still...)
Suddenly, someone calls out to her.
??? (Kagari): "Buying a gift for the ‘gentleman’?"
Futaba: "—Eh?"
Turning toward the familiar voice, I saw an unexpected person standing there.
Kagari: "Ah... like, 'Remember me by this scent'? How sweet."
Futaba: "—!"
(He's one of Kiryu’s men... his name was "Kagari," right?)
Futaba: "Wh-what are you doing here?"
Kagari: "Oh? Am I really that scary?"
As I reflexively backed away while asking, Kagari raised both hands with a smile.
Kagari: "You don't need to worry so much. I'm not going to use my powers in a public place like this."
Futaba: "...If it were Koga, it would be different."
Kagari: "I know. Actually, I have business with you today. Could you give me a bit of your time?"
(Even if you ask for my time...)
I instinctively looked around the area.
Kagari: "It's okay. I'm not here on Kiryu's orders today. In fact, I'd rather not be found by Kiryu, to be honest."
(Doesn't want to be found... really?)
Futaba: "...What is this 'business'?"
As I asked while remaining on guard, Kagari broke into a broad grin.
Kagari: "It's about your precious ‘gentleman’.”
>>>>
Kagari: "Now, now, come on, have a seat. Oh, excuse me, miss! One zenzai, please. Without the bean paste."
Proprietress: "Huh?"
The proprietress, coming to take the order, does a double-take at Kagari.
(If he asks for no bean paste... isn't it just going to be plain mochi?)
(Why did we even come to a sweets shop?)
We had arrived at a traditional sweets shop in Asakusa.
Proprietress: "Um, and for you?"
Futaba: "Then, I’ll have a zenzai too… A normal one."
Proprietress: "Understood."
After a short while, the bean-less and normal zenzai are brought to the table.
Kagari: "I see. Here, if you say 'zenzai,' it comes without the soup?"
(...Does he mean it’s different in Kobe?)
(Wait, that doesn't matter right now.)
Futaba: "Um, what was it you wanted to talk about, Kagari?"
Kagari: "Ah, that's right."
Behind his glasses, Kagari's eyes flashed.
Kagari: "Want to make a deal with me?"
(...A "deal"?)
Kagari: "To be blunt, the only one who's actually interested in your 'gentleman' is Kiryu. I couldn't care less about him. It’s no fun chasing some guy's tail all day. We have 'things we need to do.' Normally, we wouldn't even have time to mess around with that guy."
Futaba: "Things you need to do...?"
Kagari: "Didn't Kiryu tell you? About the 'vendetta'. Though 'vendetta' isn't exactly the right way to put it. It’s not like he’s our sworn enemy. Well, what we’re doing is basically the same thing, though."
(The "vendetta" Kiryu mentioned…)
Kiryu: "You've known for a long time, haven't you? Exactly 'what' it was that killed your parents."
(At the very least, Kiryu believes it was the government that killed Koga’s parents.)
(...Which means Kiryu Trading wants to overthrow the government, doesn't it?)
Aki-kun, who caused the 'Red Eyes' incident, also hated the military and the government—in the end, he even released wraiths upon the Headquarters.
(It’s different from the 'revenge' Kiryu talks about, but I wonder if Kiryu has a grudge against the government too.)
Futaba: "Is it really alright for you to be telling me all this?"
Kagari: "Even if you know, it’s not like you have the power to do anything about it, right? Or are you going to go report this to your 'friends' in the military?"
Futaba: "......!"
(He’s even investigated my connection to the military...)
Kagari: "Reporting us won't lead to anything since you don't have a shred of evidence… So, I actually have a favor to ask of you. I want you to tell the ‘gentleman' to team up with us. If you do that, I'll make sure things don't go badly for him."
Futaba: "'Don't go badly'...?"
Kagari: "It means I'll put in a good word with Kiryu so he doesn't lay an unnecessary hand on your man."
(......Which means if things stay as they are, he intends to do something to Koga.)
Futaba: "...why is Kiryu so obsessed with Koga? He mentioned being betrayed by Koga's father... is that the reason?"
Kagari: "Seems that way. I don't really care about some old guys' stories from the past, though."
(...This person really has no interest in Koga at all.)
Kagari: "I just want Kiryu to stop being so obsessed with that guy. Because of that, he keeps saddling me with all this extra work. You want to protect your man. How about it? I think our interests are aligned."
Futaba: "......"
Kagari: "Even he wouldn't be able to refuse a request from the woman he loves. I think this is the way for everything to be settled most peacefully, don't you?"
Futaba: "...Koga refused you clearly back then."
I looked Kagari straight in the eye and spoke firmly.
Futaba: "Koga would never lend his hand to something like that."
Kagari: "......"
The smile vanished from Kagari's face, and he reached for his teacup.
Kagari: "I know.”
Kagari’s fingertips spin his teacup round and round, as if toying with it.
Kagari: "I’ve done quite a bit of digging into your ‘gentleman'. I hear he's incredibly well-loved by the people of the Capital."
Futaba: "...What is it you're trying to say?"
Kagari: "For a businessman, reputation is everything, right? Especially for a man like him, who basically sells himself on his character. But reputation is surprisingly fragile. It takes forever to build up, but it's so easy to just... smash to pieces."
Futaba: "Wh—"
Kagari: "...Well, in his case, he might end up losing something even bigger than his reputation, though."
(...!)
Kagari: "The gentleman’s future is decided by your answer."
Futaba: "...How could you..."
Even though his tone is light, his expression is deadly serious.
(...So the street killings incident really was their doing too?)
(I don't know what they're planning... but there's no doubt it's something bad for Koga.)
Kagari: "I’m not a patient man. Decide right here, right now, what you're going to do."
A chill runs down my spine as I look into his emotionless eyes.
(Even if you tell me to decide...)
It’s as if time has stopped; I can’t speak, I can’t move—I can’t even look away.
Futaba: "..."
Kagari: "..."
For a while, I just keep staring at Kagari as if I've lost my mind—
Futaba: "...I... can't do it."
Before I knew it, the words had left my lips.
(Koga wouldn't want revenge.)
(And I don't want to see him do something like that, either.)
Kagari: "...Oh, really? I thought you, of all people, would understand."
Kagari let out a sigh of disappointment and stood up.
Kagari: "Well, it's the answer you chose for yourself. That's fine, isn't it? But in exchange— You’d better keep your eyes peeled for what’s about to happen."
With those final words, Kagari walked out of the shop.
(What should I do...?)
The moment I was left alone, my hands began to tremble uncontrollably.
(...Because of the way I just answered him, Koga might end up paying the price.)
(No—it’s worse than that. Koga himself could be in real danger.)
There was no longer any doubt: Kiryu and his group are about to make their move.
(...Calm down.)
(First, I have to tell Koga about this...)
I clenched my fists tight, trying to force the shaking to stop. Just then—
???: "Wait, really...!?”
???: "Which way did they run?"
Outside the shop, things suddenly became noisy.
Proprietress: "What's all this? A fight?"
Perhaps noticing it too, the proprietress opened the door halfway and called out to someone passing by.
Proprietress: "Did something happen?"
Man: "They say someone was pushed off the Asakusa Twelve-Stories tower."
Proprietress: "Oh, how awful… Who on earth would do such a thing...?"
Man: "Well, it seems there was someone who witnessed the scene..."
Man: "Apparently, they said he looked a lot like Mr. Kitamikado."
Proprietress: "Mr. Kitamikado?! That can't be right."
(—!)
I could clearly feel the blood draining from my head.
Around the time Futaba was reuniting with Kagari in the Capital, at the Shrine of hidden god—
Yura: “Sorry to keep you waiting, Koga.”
Emerging from the shrine, Yura handed Koga a medicine that had just been prepared.
Koga: “Thanks.”
Yura: “You’ve been looking quite well lately. Is it that ‘power of love’ I’ve heard about?”
Koga: “Yeah, something like that.”
Koga let out a light chuckle as he took the medicine from the teasing Yura.
Koga: “Well, I’ve finally got a reason not to die so easily. I can’t afford to let something like this hold me back anymore.”
Yura: “......I see.”
A sudden gust of wind blew, and Yura looked up at the sky where the darkness of night was beginning to close in.
Yura: “I hate to dampen the mood at a time like this, but...... you should be a little more careful.”
Koga: “Hm?”
Yura: “Lately, the mountains have been restless. It seems the Ayakashi who usually stay far from human settlements are growing agitated. I cannot help but feel it is a premonition of something terrible to come.”
Koga: “...”
Yura: “I hope it is merely my imagination, but......”
Koga: “No, your gut is right.”
Yura: “What?”
Koga: “It’s already started. And it's going to be a real pain in the ass to deal with.”
Yura looked at Koga with a startled face, then his expression softened slightly.
Yura: “If anything happens, you can tell me anytime. I… and the others will also lend you a hand.”
Koga: “...Yeah. I'll be counting on you then.”
Koga gave a faint smile as he replied to Yura, then raised a hand and began walking away.
—Then, on the path home.
Koga: (—Well, that didn't take long.)
Koga noticed the presence of someone following him and narrowed his eyes slightly.
Koga: (...The vibe is different from when that "Kagari" guy was tailing me. This is pure bloodlust...... and it's not just one person.)
He walk along, pretending not to notice, while focusing all his senses on what is behind him.
Koga: (There are quite a few of them. Are these guys also Kiryu's lackeys?)
Just as that thought crosses my mind and I take another step...
Koga: (—!)
Koga instantly leaps backward as several Kunai thud into the ground where he just stood.
Koga: (...So, they’ve come.)
The shadows of about ten Ayakashi appear.
Koga: "Hey, hey. That's a pretty rough way to say hello. What do you want, exactly?"
Ayakashi 1: "Don't play dumb!"
Blue flames surround Koga, blocking his escape route.
Koga: (Foxfire... no, is it Onibi?)
Ayakashi 1: "Even though you're an Ayakashi, you're out here fawning over humans...!"
Ayakashi 2: "It is common knowledge by now that you are involved in that plan."
Koga: "Plan...?"
Ayakashi 3: "It's no use playing innocent. We know you've been selling out Ayakashi to the government."
Ayakashi 2: "How many of us have been sacrificed for the 'Yuujin'...?!"
Koga: "'Yuujin'... what the hell is that?"
Ayakashi 1: "Curse you, acting so nonchalant!"
Ayakashi 2: "We will never forgive you...!"
The Ayakashi pounce toward Koga all at once—
Koga: "Hey, just listen to—Tsk, doesn't look like you're in the mood to listen!"
Ayakashi 1: "Guh...!"
Koga also transforms and fights back against the Ayakashi with his sword.
Ayakashi 3: "D-Damn it...!"
In the blink of an eye, the Ayakashi are overpowered by Koga, falling to the ground one after another.
Koga: "...Damn it. I ended up knocking them all out."
After defeating the last one, Koga looked around and grumbled.
Koga: "I should’ve left at least one of them standing. Now I can’t get any info out of them."
Koga scratched his head. In the next moment—
???: "—Tsk, what a pathetic sight."
Koga: "…!"
Looking back toward the voice, there stood Kagemaru, puffing on a pipe.
Koga: "You are..."
Kagemaru: "I was looking forward to seeing you go berserk again... but I guess these guys weren't enough to make that happen. Dumbasses, letting themselves get danced around by rumors like that."
Kagemaru looked down at the Ayakashi rolling on the ground with exasperation, then shifted his gaze to Koga.
Kagemaru: "Sorry my people caused you so much trouble."
Koga: "… What do you mean by 'your people'? Weren't you the Ayakashi contracted to Akiyasu?"
Kagemaru: "Ah... come to think of it, I never did properly introduce myself, did I? Name's Kagemaru, Jorōgumo spider woman. Leader of the Senkitai."
Koga: "The Senkitai... if I recall, they're..."
Kagemaru: "I'm sure even you've heard the name before. An Ayakashi organization plotting to overthrow the state, an anti-government force... Well, people say all sorts of things about us. None of those labels are exactly wrong, though. Most of my guys are just a bunch of folks who harbor a grudge against the government and the military. These guys are the same. That’s why they fell for the rumors and attacked you."
Koga: "…What was that talk earlier about a 'plan' and ‘Yuujin’?"
Kagemaru: "It's a secret military project to strengthen the army. It's been in the works for years."
Koga: "Strengthening the army……?"
Kagemaru: "You were cozying up to the military, yet you didn't even know about this? ‘Yuujin' are semi-immortal soldiers created by embedding Ayakashi cells into humans. By incorporating those cells, they’ve made it possible for humans to have physical abilities beyond normal limits and incredible healing powers. 'No personality, no emotions, and eternally loyal to the commander's orders'—apparently, that's what the creators are most proud of."
Kagemaru let out a low chuckle as smoke drifted from his pipe.
Kagemaru: "While you guys were playing nice with Akiyasu, the military folk were busy treating Ayakashi like nothing more than food.”
Koga: (Incredible healing powers... Loyal to orders?)
Kyonosuke: "—Kill them."
Soldiers: "......"
Koga: "Those guys, huh..."
Kagemaru: "Looks like you have at least some idea who they are, don't you?"
Koga: "...Yeah, I guess. But I don't recall ever being told I was involved in something like that."
Kagemaru: "I figured as much. The one who spread the rumors is that bastard."
Koga raises an eyebrow as if he realized it immediately this time.
Koga: "You mean Kiryu? You know him too?"
Kagemaru: "...Yeah. He’s a former member of the Senkitai."
Koga: "......!"
Kagemaru: "Mind you, he left the Senkitai before I was even born."
Having said that, Kagemaru slowly approached Koga.
Kagemaru: "His recent movements have been bothering me. So, I took the liberty of looking into things, including stuff about you. Want me to tell you why that bastard is pulling this kind of stunt on you?"
Kagemaru exhales smoke with a smirk.
Kagemaru: "It's because your father was the first leader of the Senkitai."
Koga: "...!"
Kagemaru: "The Senkitai has a bit of history itself, you see. It all started back in the Bakumatsu (the final years of the Edo period). At first, it seems they got along quite well with humans. After all, they were a volunteer army of patriots fighting on the side of what is now the government."
Kagemaru curls the corner of his mouth in a teasing way.
Kagemaru: "Have you heard the story about how the Senkitai contributed to the Meiji Restoration long ago?"
Koga: "...I know at least that they were on the side of the New Government when they were first formed."
Kagemaru: "That's exactly right. The Restoration wasn't accomplished by the Satsuma and Choshu clans alone. A volunteer army where Ayakashi gathered across tribal lines under the ambition of creating a new world—that was the Senkitai. They fought with the strength of 'a thousand Ayakashi,' achieving great military feats and contributing to the Restoration. And the one leading that Senkitai was your father."
Koga: "..."
Kagemaru: "But after the Restoration, the government turned its back on them. They decided that in a new era, the existence of Ayakashi was just a nuisance. The Senkitai were branded as 'enemies of the state.' Every last one of them was captured and thrown into prison. Far from being rewarded for their service, their very existence was about to be erased."
Koga: "…"
Without a single tremor, Koga listens to Kagemaru’s words.
Kagemaru: "However, the government offered the Senkitai just one condition. They said—'If you abandon your identity as an Ayakashi, followed us, and become soldiers, we will spare your lives.'"
Koga: "…"
Kagemaru: "Your old man accepted those terms. To stay alive, he threw away his pride as an Ayakashi and abandoned his comrades. The rest of those who were left behind eventually managed to break out of prison and rebuilt the Senkitai. The second-generation leader was my father, who brought them together... but it seems things didn't go as smoothly as they did with the first leader. A few people who were disillusioned by the first leader's actions left the Senkitai back then. Kiryu was one of those who defected."
Koga: "…"
Kagemaru: "Your father was apparently a man of great popularity and charisma. It’s an unacceptable story, isn't it? The leader they all looked up to was the first one to turn tail and run like a coward."
Exhaling a long breath of smoke, Kagemaru looks at Koga, who stands there in a daze.
Kagemaru: "I bet that bastard still hasn't forgiven your father for what he did."
Koga: "…"
Without showing any outward emotion, Koga clenched his fist so hard it shook.
This is a fan-teanslation so expect some misspelling and misinformation here and there, this the first time I translate something THIS big so bear with me ... Each post will be 2 chapter until I finish because I can't post all chapters in one post or Tumblr might die on me ...
LIKES, COMMENTS, AND REBLOGS ARE APPRECIATED PLEASE AND THANK YOU !!!!
Koga’s usual fearless expression has finally returned, and it makes me happy too.
Koga: "But if Kiryu finds out I’m on the move, you might be in danger again. Once we're back in to Capital, for a little while, we should keep our distance—"
Futaba: "I... I refuse!"
(I had a faint feeling he might say something like that.)
(But I absolutely hate that...!)
Futaba: "Please let me help too. I’ll protect myself."
Koga: "...Keeping our distance is just a precaution until we know more. I'm not saying we should be apart forever."
Futaba: "They already know about me. Wouldn't it be the same even if we kept our distance now? If you’re going to investigate, I’m doing it with you.”
Koga was silent for a moment, then let out a sigh of resignation.
Koga: "...Well, it's not like they didn't go out of their way to come all the way to the Capital to check on us anyway. If I want to protect you, I guess I've got no choice but to have you hide somewhere..."
A slightly teasing tone mixed into Koga’s voice.
Koga: "The trouble is, the woman I fell in love with isn't the type to just sit quietly and hide."
Futaba: "That... That's exactly right."
Koga: "In that case, I guess it’s better if I just keep you by my side?"
Futaba: "...! You mean...!"
Koga: "Yeah, I give up. You win. I’ll have you help me too."
(Thank goodness...!)
As I let out a sigh of relief, Koga gave a wry smile again.
Koga: "Why are you relieved? I've gone and dragged you into this."
Futaba: "I’m happy. To be able to shoulder something together with you, Koga. Besides, isn't it frustrating to think we'd have to be apart just because of those people?"
Koga: "Haha, you've got a point there."
Koga held my hand and squeezed it.
Koga: "But don't go charging off on your own. If anything happens, make sure you tell me.”
Futaba: "I understand."
I can feel Koga’s warmth through our tightly clasped hands.
(As long as I have this warmth, I have nothing to fear.)
With that thought, I leaned my head against Koga’s shoulder once more.
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
——On the outskirts of the Imperial Capital, at the Senkitai hideout.
Kagemaru: "Regarding that matter... has there been a reply?"
Zantetsu: "No, not yet..."
When Zantetsu shook his head apologetically, Kagemaru let out a loud click of his tongue.
Kagemaru: "That bastard, he’s really making us wait."
Zantetsu: "I don’t really understand how those guys in the West think."
Kagemaru: "If it were just about their way of thinking, it wouldn’t be so bad..."
Kagemaru: "But it’s always been the same with them—their only reason for moving is money and vested interests."
Zantetsu: "Money, is it...?"
Kagemaru: "They’re a practical bunch—excessively so... but lately, something feels off."
Kagemaru exhales a cloud of smoke, looking lost in thought.
Kagemaru: "...Fine. We’ll watch how things go a bit longer."
Zantetsu: "Understood."
As Zantetsu started to leave the parlor, he turned back to Kagemaru as if remembering something.
Zantetsu: "Speaking of 'off,' I’ve heard some strange rumors lately myself."
Kagemaru: "Rumors?"
Zantetsu: "Yes. It’s separate from the matter in the West... but I thought I should let you know, Kagemaru."
Zantetsu: "It’s a story that also involves that plan—"
Kagemaru: "......"
Upon hearing the "rumor" Zantetsu spoke of, Kagemaru’s brow twitched and furrowed.
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
A few days after returning to the Imperial Capital, I visited Koga’s house on my way home from school.
(Nothing particularly unusual has happened since coming back from Kobe... but just to be safe.)
When I was shown into the living room, Kuya, who had been lying down, turned to look at me.
Kuya: "...Haven't you been coming here every day lately?"
Futaba: "And you're still taking naps every day, Kuya."
Kuya: "...I change the location, at least.”
When I couldn't help but laugh at Kuya's answer, I heard another voice laughing along.
Koga: "You're back again, Futaba?"
Futaba: "Koga...!"
Koga: "You don't need to worry so much. Nothing new happened. You've got school, too. You don't have to push yourself to come here every day".
Futaba: "I'm not pushing myself. Even if nothing happened yesterday, something might happen today. Besides, I..."
As soon as I start to say it, I suddenly feel embarrassed and my voice grows small.
Futaba: "I-I mean, I want to... see you every day, Koga..."
Kuya: "...Could you guys not say that while I'm actually here?"
Koga: "You could always take the hint and leave us alone, Kuya".
Kuya: "For the record, I was the one napping here first".
Kuya sat up and tilted his head at the bundle of papers Koga was holding.
Kuya: "What's that?"
Koga: "Stuff from when I was looking into my old man a while back. I dug it out".
Kuya: "...Right. What was that guy's name... Kyuri...?"
Futaba: "It's Kiryu".
Kuya: "Ah, that's it. Is this about the connection to that guy?"
Koga: "Yeah. I figured I might have forgotten something, and that it might be written down somewhere, but... Even looking through it again, his name doesn't show up anywhere".
Futaba: "I see..."
Koga: "Then again, most of the info here is from after my dad joined the military. As I thought, it's probably better to start looking into things from further back... before he joined the military".
(Thinking: Before the military... but that'll be hard if we don't have any leads.)
Futaba: "...Are there still people in the military who knew your father, Koga? Maybe you could try asking them if they know anything...?"
Koga: "There are a few people who come to mind... but they probably aren't reliable. Just looking into things regarding my old man has been a massive pain in the neck. This is a matter the government is desperately trying to hide. Unless it's someone reasonably well-versed in internal affairs, I doubt they’d have any reliable information."
Futaba: "I see..."
Then, Kuya, who had been listening to the conversation, muttered quietly.
Kuya: "...Then, what about that guy?"
Futaba: "Eh?"
Kuya: "The soldier in the white clothes."
Futaba: "Ah...! Do you mean Aizen?"
Koga: "Aizen, huh… Even if he is a Major, he's still young. I wonder if he even knows about my old man..."
Having said that much, Koga suddenly stopped mid-sentence.
Koga: "No, wait—"
Maid: "Pardon me for interrupting your conversation. A guest has arrived, how should I proceed?"
Koga: "A guest? I shouldn't have any business meetings scheduled for today... Who is it?"
Maid: "Well, it is a person who calls himself as Aizen..."
At the name that came from the maid's mouth, we looked at each other. Aizen, who entered the room, was wearing a casual kimono rather than his usual military uniform.
Futaba: "...It has been a long time."
Koga: "Well, quite the unusual guest we have here."
Kuya: (Yawns)
Kuya yawned, while Koga rested his elbows on his knees and glared at Aizen.
Koga: "What brings you all the way here? Did you come to offer an apology?" (Damn, bro hates him 😭)
Futaba: "K-Koga..."
Kyōnosuke: "I figured you would say that."
Aizen didn't seem to mind and continued in his usual tone.
Kyōnosuke: "I am grateful that you brought the 'Red Eyes' matter to a close. However, it is a fact that you acted independently, contrary to our wishes. ...Including the fact that you couldn't control your power and let it run wild."
Koga: "......"
Kyōnosuke: "It is also our job to be wary of those who possess too much power. I would appreciate it if you could understand that.”
Koga: "...So what you’re saying is, you can’t offer an apology just on your own authority?"
Kyōnosuke: "......"
Koga: "......"
For a second, tension spiked—then Koga exhaled sharply, as if to break the mood first.
Koga: "...Well, I guess it's thanks to that 'discretion' of yours that we were let off the hook."
(...It’s true that the military hasn't said a word to us since then.)
Koga: "...So, what do you want this time?"
Kyōnosuke: "I’m off duty today. I’d like you to listen to this as a personal matter between us… A few days ago, a strange incident occurred in the city."
Futaba: "An incident?"
Kyōnosuke: "In the middle of the night, a certain street performer was cut down. The culprit hasn't been caught. Nothing of value was stolen, and the motive for the killing is unknown."
Koga: "...Street killings in this day and age?"
(Street killings... I've only ever heard of those in old stories or plays.)
Kyōnosuke: "There is witness testimony of a person's shadow seen immediately after the incident. A young man with dark hair and a red kimono—and strangely enough, they say two horns were growing from his forehead."
Aizen mentioned that the description of the street-slashing culprit "looks like Koga."
Koga: "…And?"
Koga doesn't seem particularly shaken; he looks Aizen straight in the eye.
Koga: "At the very least, you didn't come here to arrest me, did you? If that were your intention, you wouldn't come here alone, unarmed, without any subordinates."
(…Oh, that’s true. If he suspected us, he could have just summoned Koga or me to Headquarters.)
Kyōnosuke: "…Well, if you were the culprit, the case would have been solved quickly. We know you were at an evening party the night those incidents occurred. Based on the time, it's highly unlikely it was your doing.”
Koga: "But since the Onikiri are reacting, you’re concluding that an Ayakashi is involved, right?"
Kyōnosuke: "The culprit's characteristics certainly match those of an Oni. However... you aren't necessarily the only Oni around."
Futaba: "...In other words, are you asking us to help you again?"
(Is he telling us to become bait or something like that...?)
Kyōnosuke: "No. For now, I have no plans to ask for your help. It’s not like a wraith has appeared or anything."
Kuya: "...Eh, then what did you actually come here for?"
Kūya tilts his head suspiciously, while Aizome gives a wry smile.
Kyōnosuke: "Just to chat. Didn't I tell you I'm off duty today?”
Koga: "......"
Kyōnosuke: "Even if it's not a wraith, it’s a fact that suspicious incidents are happening in the Capital again. Moreover, if it's indiscriminate 'street slashing', there's a high possibility it will be repeated."
At that, Aizen shifted his gaze toward me.
Kyōnosuke: "At the very least, I thought you all would want to know."
(Ah...)
Futaba: "...The reason I decided to fight wraiths was to save my father. But... It's different now. After meeting everyone, gaining people I care about, and learning about the feelings of so many… I want to protect this Capital where those people live—that's how I feel now."
Kyōnosuke: "..."
(I wonder if Aizen remembered what I said back then?)
Kyōnosuke: "—Also, this is just my personal opinion… I don't think the culprit is necessarily an 'Oni'."
Futaba: "Eh?"
Kyōnosuke: "If Ayakashi are involved, we can't judge based on appearance alone. Some have the power to mimic the form of others. Even if that were the case, there might be a reason why they chose a form that's so obviously an 'Oni'."
(A reason... wait, could they be trying to frame Koga? But if that's true, it would have to be someone who knows Koga is an Ayakashi. The person who comes to mind is the one Koga just had a conflict with recently… "Kiryu Trading"... if it's them, they would definitely know he's an 'Oni'. But for what purpose...?)
Koga: "...Sorry, but I don't have any lead on who the culprit might be."
Kyōnosuke: "I see."
Aizen stands up, giving a reply that suggests he didn't expect much of an answer anyway.
Kyōnosuke: "That's all for now. Excuse me."
Koga: "..."
Koga watched Aizen’s back as he left the room, then stood up himself.
Futaba: "Koga?"
Koga: "I'll be right back. You guys wait here.”
Koga headed toward the entrance as if chasing after Aizen, leaving Kuya and me behind in the living room.
Kuya: "..."
Futaba: "...Aizen actually came here to give Koga a warning, didn't he?"
(Aizen probably didn't think Koga was the culprit from the very beginning. He was trying to tell him that there's someone out there trying to pin the crime on him.)
Kuya: "...Being a military man seems like a real pain, doesn't it?"
After saying that, Kuya lay back down again.
Futaba: "Was this also a setup by Kiryu? Trying to make Koga look like a criminal...?"
Kuya: "...Who knows. I wouldn't go that far. I wonder if they even have a fun reason for doing something like that."
(True... even if it was Kiryu, I don't understand his motive. But Aizen did say that something similar might happen again.)
It’s frustrating that I want to do something about this quickly, yet I haven’t been able to find a single clue.
Futaba: "Kiryu originally approached Koga about avenging his father. But he also said that he was betrayed by Koga’s father... I just don't understand what that means.”
Kuya: "…"
Then, Kuya, letting out a yawn, suddenly murmured:
Kuya: "...If Teach’ was here, he might have been able to tell us something.”
(Teach’, the person who took Koga in...?)
I've heard he was the person who raised Koga after he lost his parents, and that Kuya, Toichiro, and Shizuki all used to live together with him long ago.
(I see. If Teach’ took Koga in, then maybe he was also an acquaintance of Koga’s father.)
Futaba: "...Kuya, do you know any of Teach's friends? Or maybe someone who might know about Koga's father's past...?"
Kuya: "I don't know anyone. Teach’ was just 'Teach’'—he was a man of many mysteries. Besides, he lived as a recluse deep in the mountains."
Futaba: "Was there anyone who ever came to visit him there...?"
Kuya: "...At least during the time I was there, no one ever came. Teach’ never talked about the past at all. So, I don't know."
Futaba: "I see..."
(I suppose if such a person existed, Koga would have looked into it a long time ago.)
Kuya: "...Maybe it was intentional."
Futaba: "Eh?"
Kuya: "He wasn't the type to talk about this or that to begin with, so we didn't really pay it any mind, but… maybe the truth is, he purposely made sure we didn't know anything unnecessary."
(Was there a reason he didn't tell Koga or Kuya about the past...?)
Kuya: "Well, I wouldn't know. Teach’ isn't around anymore, anyway. Yawn (Fuwaa...)"
Having said that, Kuya closed his eyes and began to doze off.
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
Leaving Kuya and Futaba in the living room, Koga called out to Kyōnosuke, who was about to leave through the entrance.
Koga: "Hey, wait up."
Kyōnosuke: "……?"
Koga: "There’s something I want to ask you.”
Kyōnosuke: "......"
Koga paused for a moment, then looked Kyōnosuke straight in the eye as he turned around.
Koga: "You know something about my old man?”
Kyōnosuke: "Your father?"
Koga: "You said before that you'd 'heard the name before.'"
Kyōnosuke: "Kitamikado... Yes, that's a name I have indeed heard. To be a soldier yet turn against the government—that is why your parents were killed.”
Koga: "My father was killed because he turned against the government... you definitely said that, didn't you."
Kyōnosuke: "...”
Koga: "Back then, I was just a little kid. I still don't know the real reason my parents were killed. What do you mean by 'turned against'? What exactly did my father do to get himself killed?"
Kyōnosuke: "..."
Kyōnosuke stared at Koga, eventually letting out a sigh.
Kyōnosuke: "...Back then, I had only just entered the military academy myself. I wasn't directly involved in your father's case. I only heard the stories later on."
Koga: "...In other words, it was an incident so big that word reached your ears even though it happened so long ago?"
Kyōnosuke: "Regarding that, there is nothing more I can tell you."
Koga: "......”
Kyōnosuke: "If you’re trying to dig into your father’s past, you’d be better off stopping. There are some things you are better off not knowing. For your own sake, and for your comrades’ as well."
Koga: "...Look, I don't give a damn about the old man's past. Knowing the circumstances of how they were killed isn't gonna bring my father or mother back. But, if the reason behind it is putting the people I care about in danger, that's a different story. I want to know my father's past so I can protect them. If I stay in the dark, I can't protect anything."
Kyōnosuke: "... I am sorry I cannot meet your expectations, but I cannot tell you from my own lips."
Koga: "... Fine then. I'll just do things my own way."
Koga turned his back on Kyōnosuke and headed back into the house.
This is a fan-teanslation so expect some misspelling and misinformation here and there, this the first time I translate something THIS big so bear with me ... Each post will be 2 chapter until I finish because I can't post all chapters in one post or Tumblr might die on me ...
LIKES, COMMENTS, AND REBLOGS ARE APPRECIATED PLEASE AND THANK YOU !!!!
P.S : sorry for the sudden disappearance, life been sucking my mental health plus Ramadan and fasting and all that ...
CHAPTER 5
Kiryū’s proposal was clear: “Join me, and together we’ll avenge your father.”
Kiryū: “You already know, don’t you? What it was that killed your parents.”
(—!)
Startled, I glanced at Kōga. He sat in silence, his eyes fixed firmly on Kiryū.
Kōga: “……”
(…He once told me about his parents, just once before. Before living with his master, Kōga had lived in the Imperial Capital with his parents.)
Kōga: “One day, when I came home…the entire house was engulfed in flames…I could never believe their death was just an accident.”
(That was all he ever told me… He never spoke of the truth, or the culprit. I thought maybe the cause was still unknown…)
But now, it seemed Kōga—and this man—knew more than they had ever let on.
Kōga: “Revenge? Don’t make me laugh.”
Kōga gave a short, dismissive chuckle.
Kōga: “This isn’t some old kabuki play. Revenge dramas don’t exactly draw crowds these days.”
Kiryū: “I knew your father well. More than anyone, he longed for coexistence between humans and Ayakashi. And yet… it was humans who killed him.”
Futaba: “…!”
(Kōga’s parents… were killed by humans?)
Kiryū glanced at me, then let out a sharp, mocking laugh.
Kiryū: “Tell me, why do you show mercy to mere humans?”
Kōga: “……”
Kiryū: “Don't you hate them? As Lord Ouga's son, if you don’t avenge your parents’ deaths, then who will—”
BANG!
(…!)
Kōga: “I’ve heard enough. I don’t need to hear another word from you.”
With a sharp slam of his hand against the desk, Kōga rose to his feet. The sound was so forceful it made me flinch.
Kiryū: “……”
Kōga: “……”
(Kōga’s angry… I’ve never seen him this furious before.)
Kōga: “I don’t know what kind of man you are, but if you really knew my father, then you should understand this. He never wanted something like this. And above all— Hating humans because of this is completely misguided.”
Though his voice was calm, the fury radiating from Kōga’s body left no room for interruption.
Kiryū: “……”
Kiryū met his gaze without flinching, then sighed theatrically and shook his head.
Kiryū: “I see… You’re afraid, aren’t you? Afraid of making enemies of humanity.”
(…! His whole aura just shifted.)
Kiryū: “You truly are your father’s son. That man was a coward too—willing to abandon his comrades just to save his own life.”
(Abandoned his comrades…? What does he mean, calling Kōga’s father a coward?)
Kōga: “…What are you talking about?”
Kiryū: “Don’t tell me you don’t know… about your own father’s past. Lord Ouga—once betrayed us, his own comrades.”
Kiryu didn’t say anything more, simply gazing quietly at the still-standing Koga.
Kiryu: “You really are just like your father. That man was also a coward who abandoned his comrades to save his own life.”
(Abandoned his comrades…?)
Kiryu:“……”
(Ugh…)
His eyes, filled with intense hatred, sent a chill down my spine.
Koga:“……”
Koga stood silently for a while, enduring the gaze—
Koga: “Let’s go home, Futaba.”
Eventually, still looking at Kiryu, he relaxed and spoke.
Futaba: “Eh…?”
Koga: “There’s no point in staying here anymore. Let’s go.”
Kagari: “—Well, that’s not going to happen.”
(—!)
Before I could respond to Renga-san, the man from earlier pulled me by the shoulder and pinned me down.
Koga: “Futaba!”
Kagari: “Did you think we’d let you leave so easily? That’s naive.”
A gun was pressed roughly against my temple.
Koga: “Let go of her.”
Kagari: “If you want her back, try taking her by force.”
A line of men suddenly stepped between me and Koga, pointing their guns at him.
(Koga!)
—Bang, bang!
—poof! (Koga turned into his Oni form)
Koga: “—!”
—Clang!
Koga, now transformed, instantly deflected the bullets with his sword.
Subordinate 1: “Damn it…”
Koga: “Outta my way.”
Before the next bullet could be fired, Koga closed the distance between him and the men—
Subordinate 2: “Guh…”
Subordinate 3: “Gah…”
He effortlessly knocked everyone to the floor.
Kagari: “Well, not bad.”
The gun barrel moved away from my temple and pointed toward Kouga-san.
Koga: “—!”
Koga quickly ducked and grabbed the gun that had fallen nearby.
—Bang!
Kagari: “—!?”
The gun in Kagari’s hand flew out, and in that moment, the arm restraining me loosened.
(—Now!)
I slipped out of his arms in that brief moment—and was caught by Koga.
Futaba: “Koga!”
Koga: “Futaba, hold on tight.”
Koga lifted me up and swung his sword toward the window.
—Crash!
Kōga: “Hold on—!”
With a single, forceful motion, Kōga smashed the window and leapt out, carrying me with him.
********
After confirming the two of them had jumped, Kiryū turned his gaze back to the room.
Kagari: “What now, Mr. Kiryū?”
Kiryū: “Don’t chase them.”
Kiryū remained seated, staring at the shattered window without moving.
Kiryū: “I never intended to fight him to the death here. I only needed to see what kind of man he is.”
Kagari: “So, I did the provoking for that very reason.”
Kagari shrugged; Kiryū snorted and cast a quick look around the room.
Kiryū: “He truly is Lord Ouga’s son. Even his fighting style is similar.”
Kagari: “Still, what now? He turned us down flat. I told you he wouldn’t join forces with us.”
Kagari slapped the documents he’d pulled out against his hand.
Kagari: “I went all the way to the capital to check. The man’s reputation is spotless—too spotless, really.”
He tossed the papers onto the cluttered table; spilled tea seeped into the edges.
Kagari: “Usually, nouveau riche types (people who have recently acquired wealth) get hated, but this one’s different. He bought a failing textile mill for pennies and turned it around. Locals practically worship the name ‘Koga Kitamikado’. As far as that man goes, everyone says the same thing: ‘He’s an incredibly good man.’”
Kiryū: “Is that so.”
Kagari: “He wouldn’t team up with us. Not a chance. The only way is to use that woman to make him obey.”
Kiryū: “That would be meaningless. From the start, I never expected him to agree so easily.”
Kiryū rose from his seat and walked toward the window Kōga had leapt from, gazing outside.
Kiryū: “‘Humans and Ayakashi are the same’… That’s nonsense. He must be made to understand that as well.”
In his eyes, a quiet hatred burned, fixed on something beyond his gaze.
Kagari: “…If anything, I don’t understand why you’re so fixated on that man, Kiryū. His father—what kind of man was he? Was he really that extraordinary?”
Kiryū: “…extraordinary, huh. Yes… there’s no other way to describe him.”
Kiryū glanced briefly toward Kagari, then allowed a faint smile to cross his lips.
Kiryū: “He was one of the heroes who brought about this nation’s Restoration. Strong, and gifted at winning people’s hearts. A truly remarkable man… until the day he bent to the government.”
Kagari: “…Oh.”
Kagari's voice was flat, his reaction muted.
Kiryū turned his gaze back to the window, speaking as Kagarii gave a disinterested nod.
Kagari: “…The Restoration was more than thirty years ago.”
Kagari's muttering words didn't seem to reach Kiryu.
Kōga sat silently in the corner of the room, staring out the window.
(Kōga’s been like that ever since…)
So much happened all at once—it’s no wonder.
Kiryū: “I knew your father well. More than anyone, he longed for coexistence between humans and Ayakashi. And yet… it was humans who killed him.”
Kiryū: “Don’t tell me you don’t know… about your own father’s past. Lord Ouga—once betrayed us, his own comrades.”
(…How much of that story was true?)
I brewed tea quietly, setting a cup before Kōga without a word.
Koga: “…Ah… thanks.”
Koga looked at me suddenly, then sighed.
Koga: “Once I start thinking about it, I can’t seem to stop… And about earlier—sorry for dragging you into it. I put you in danger.”
Futaba: “That’s not something you should apologize for, Koga. If anything, I should be the one apologizing for causing trouble.”
(After all, it was my idea to use myself as bait to catch the people tailing him.)
Koga: “It wasn’t trouble. One way or another, they would’ve approached me eventually. Thanks to you, we dealt with it quickly.”
Koga smiled at me.
His tone finally lightened, and I felt a wave of relief.
Koga: “…Come here.”
I stepped closer at his beckoning, and he wrapped one arm around my shoulder, pulling me gently against him.
(Koga…)
I rested my head on his shoulder, and for a while, we simply shared each other’s warmth. At last, Koga spoke quietly, still holding me close.
Koga: “My father and mother… I think they were killed by government officials.”
Futaba: “Eh…?”
Koga: “Do you remember me telling you once, how I tried to uncover the cause of their deaths when I was a kid?”
Futaba: “…Yes.”
Koga: “Well, I was just a child. Of course I couldn’t find anything. I only remember standing where our house used to be… and there, I ran into an old friend I hadn’t seen in years.”
(That ‘friend’… was Masanobu’s older brother.)
I couldn’t bring myself to say it aloud, but Koga seemed to understand, and gave a small nod.
Koga: Yeah, it’s about when the carnage form took hold of me.”
(…）
Koga: “I spent a while standing in a daze at the spot where our old house used to be— Then I happened to overhear someone in the neighborhood gossiping.”
Futaba: “Gossip?”
Koga: “They were saying, ‘Someone saw an official set fire to this house.’ They said that that official was like, ‘We need to get rid of the monsters,’ or something.”
(A government official… and ‘monsters’…）
Koga: “In short, people suspected that the owners of this house — my parents — had done something to draw the government’s attention. In the end, they decided they didn’t want to get involved, so they agreed to stop talking about it.”
Koga, who had lowered his hand, clenched it into a tight fist.
Koga: “I thought my parents were killed because it was found out they were Ayakashi… I also thought, ‘I can’t forgive that.’ My father served as a soldier and worked for the country.”
Futaba: “Koga…”
Koga: “Even my mother never once looked down on humans. She was truly kind to everyone. I couldn’t forgive people calling such parents ‘monsters.’”
Koga let out a long, long breath to calm himself.
Koga: “…When I talked about this before, I should have said this. ‘The reason I, a little boy, went into carnage form, was because I hadn’t taken my medicine for a long time,’ or something like that.”
Futaba: “…Yes.”
Koga: “The truth is, that wasn’t the whole story. At that time I hated humans. Those who called my parents ‘monsters.’ That hatred became the trigger for the carnage form to take hold of me.”
(That's…）
Koga: “So, what that old man said wasn’t entirely wrong. Even I have felt hatred toward humans.”
Futaba: “…”
My chest tightened at how indifferently he spoke those words, and I squeezed my eyes shut.
(But it’s not like Koga hated them for no reason.)
(After all, it was humans who killed his parents, and humans who called him a "monster"...)
A feeling I couldn't put into words welled up inside me, and my heart ached.
Then, a palm was placed gently on top of my head.
Futaba: "...!”
Koga: "...”
When I opened my eyes, Koga was gazing at me with a soft expression.
Koga: “My old man always said that humans and Ayakashi should live together, regardless of what they are. The reason I left Teach's place was to see for myself what those words really meant.”
Futaba: “To see for yourself…?”
Koga: “I wanted to see it with my own eyes, so I traveled all over. The Capital, Yokohama, Kobe, and even foreign lands like America and England—I went to all sorts of places because I wanted to see how the people there lived. Oh yeah, that's also when I learned how to do business. It was a good lesson.”
(I see, he even went abroad...)
(The reason Koga is so successful as a businessman in the Capital now is because of the experiences he had back then.)
Koga: "...No matter where I went, everyone was the same. They lived in their respective places, their lifestyles were all different. In foreign countries, there were plenty of people with different eyes and hair colors, too. But everyone was living their daily lives as best they could. They had precious families, and they each had things they wanted to protect. There was no difference between humans and Ayakashi in that regard. Now, I understand that my old man was right."
Futaba: "......"
Koga's voice was calm, and I could tell he was speaking from the heart.
Koga: "After that, I occasionally looked into the cause of my parents' deaths. Though, I only did it about once every few years. I couldn't find a single clue, so eventually I just stopped. I'm not investigating anything anymore."
Futaba: "...Are you glad that you stopped?"
Koga: "Yeah. Even if I knew the truth, my parents are already dead. And seeking revenge is out of the question."
(...It seems Koga has already come to terms with it.)
(But Kiryu suggested that they should seek revenge together...)
Futaba: "...Do you think those people will seek revenge even without your help?"
Koga: "Who knows. At the very least, it's true that I never once heard Kiryu's name from my father's mouth. To be honest, I still don't know how much of what that guy says is actually true."
(That’s true. It might be a lie, and besides...)
Futaba: "...That person was a bit strange, wasn't he?"
Koga: "Strange?"
Futaba: "Yes."
I thought back to how Kiryu had looked a few hours ago.
Futaba: "How should I put it... even though he said he wanted to seek revenge, it felt like his heart wasn't really in it. If anything, it felt like he actually hated your father, Koga..."
Koga: "...I thought it was fishy, too. He even said he was 'betrayed' by my old man."
Koga turned his gaze back out the window.
Koga: "The father I knew wasn't the kind of man who would 'abandon his comrades to save his own skin.' But… I don't know enough about my father's past to flatly deny it. By the time I was old enough to remember, my father was already a soldier. I never heard a single thing about what he did before he joined the army. It's almost laughable that, even as his son, I can't tell whether that story is a lie or not.”
Seeing Koga-san looking somewhat anxious as he spoke—
Futaba: "...It will be alright."
To give him courage, I gently wrapped my palm over Koga’s tightly clenched fist.
Futaba: "We might not know for sure what happened in the past. But the father you’ve seen and known, Koga... he is real, too."
Koga: "...”
Koga stared silently at his fist for a moment, then whispered.
Koga: "...Futaba."
As I looked up to respond, Koga’s face slowly leaned in, and I felt a warmth touch my lips.
(Koga...)
As I closed my eyes, a series of gentle, feather-light kisses were repeated.
Koga: "...”
When our lips parted, we gazed at each other from a breath away.
Koga: "...Thanks."
The look of anxiety from before was gone from Koga’s eyes.
Koga: "Thanks to you, I’ve made up my mind. Better to take action than to just sit around brooding over things."
Futaba: "Take action?"
Koga: "I’m going to look into how that old man was connected to my father. I want to know exactly what those guys are after... if only to protect you."
As he spoke and gave a daring smile, Koga was back to the person I knew so well.
This is a fan-teanslation so expect some misspelling and misinformation here and there, this the first time I translate something THIS big so bear with me ... Each post will be 2 chapter until I finish because I can't post all chapters in one post or Tumblr might die on me ...
LIKES, COMMENTS, AND REBLOGS ARE APPRECIATED PLEASE AND THANK YOU !!!!
The night after seeing the play, I immediately decided to tell my father about going to Kobe.
Mototaka: "Kobe, huh? I don't mind, go ahead."
Futaba: "Really? Are you sure?"
Mototaka: "If Kitamikado-kun is with you, there's no need to worry. Besides, Kobe is a nice city. It wouldn't be a bad idea to go and see it."
(My father has been to Kobe many times for work, after all.)
Futaba: "Thank you...! I'll be careful."
Mototaka: "Okay. By the way, I know this sounds like a lot of work, but... can I ask you to run an errand for me? Whenever I go to Kobe for work, there's someone who's always a friend of mine. I'd like you to send them a present."
Futaba: "Sure, I'd love that."
(Koga said he had a business meeting, so I think I could give it to him during that time.)
Nachi: "A trip, huh? That sounds nice, Futaba."
Nachi mutters enviously, curled up in the cushion.
Futaba: "I'll buy some souvenirs for you, Nachi. Look forward to it."
Nachi: "Yeah. But don't worry too much about it, just have fun. You've been working hard to banish wraiths, so you should take a big break."
Mototaka: "Haha, that's true. Think of it as a reward and stretch your wings."
Futaba: "Yes...! Thank you."
Father and Nachi sent me off with smiles, and I thanked them with a smile.
•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•
A few days later, on the morning of my departure to Kobe...
Futaba: "Look, Koga, the scenery is beautiful!"
Koga: "If you get too excited now, your body won't be able to keep up."
Koga and I were on a train bound for Kobe.
Koga: "Well, we'll be stuck here for another half day and won't get there until late at night."
Futaba: "Koga, do you go to Kobe often?"
Koga: "Yeah... well, it's mostly work-related."
(I'm the only one who's never been there before.)
Futaba: "I think it's somewhere like Yokohama. It's a port town, and there's a settlement where foreigners live..."
Koga: "Nowadays, Japanese people can freely enter and leave the settlement, but there are definitely a lot of foreigners. Motomachi in particular has a foreign atmosphere. It's a lively and nice town."
Futaba: "Wow...! I'd like to go there."
(I'm getting even more excited now.)
As we chatted, my heart filled with anticipation...
Koga : "..."
Koga suddenly turned toward the hallway, as if he had just realized something.
Futaba: "Koga, what's the matter?"
Koga: "... That's weird..."
Koga glanced down the hallway once more, then turned his gaze to me and smiled.
Koga: "Nah, it's nothing. More importantly, we might see Mt. Fuji soon."
Futaba: "Oh, it's true!"
The train journey was more enjoyable than I had expected—the long journey seemed to pass by in an instant.
By the time we arrived to Kobe, it was late into the night and midnight had already passed.
When we arrived at the inn where we will be staying, the landlady promptly escorted us to our room.
(Wait, this is...)
Two futons were already laid out next to each other in the room.
Landlady: "Please, enjoy your stay."
The landlady smiles and quickly closes the sliding doors.
Koga: "...Ugh, a long journey is really tiring. I think I'll just go to bed and call it a day."
Koga stretches a little and calmly sits down next to the futon.
Futaba: "Um, Koga..."
Kouga: "Hm?"
Futaba: "Are we... sharing the same room?"
(Koga had told me he'd take care of the accommodation arrangements, so I'd left it to him.)
(But is this normal when you're lovers?)
Koga: "...Oh, I see."
Koga looked confused for a moment, then quickly laughed.
Koga: "I won't do anything weird. Don't worry."
Futaba: "...!"
(I-I mean, that's not what I was worried about...!)
(Well, maybe it was but still--)
Koga: "Come on, sit down too. You're tired, aren't you?"
Futaba: "..."
(Am I being too self-conscious...?)
Though troubled by how Koga seemed to be acting so much like usual, I decided to unpack my things.
---But even so, when it came time to turn off the lights and get into bed, the tension began to creep back in.
Futaba: "Good...night."
I quickly said to Koga, who was sleeping with his head facing the ceiling, then turned to face me.
Kouga: "...Hey, can I just tell you something before I go to sleep?"
Futaba: "Huh?"
Koga: "I was hesitant, but... I decided to tell you after all. Lately, there's someone who's been following me. And it looks like he even followed me to Kobe."
(What!?)
Futaba: "Does that mean we're being followed...?"
Koga: "Yeah, he was on the train too. I was watching him, but so far he doesn't seem like he's going to harm us. I guessed it'd be reasonable to check his background..."
(...I hadn't noticed at all.)
Futaba: "But a background check...why..."
Koga: "It's not that unusual when it comes to work. Like, when starting a business, you want to research your competitors... Even when planning to work together, there are cases where you want to find out whether the other party is trustworthy."
Futaba: "I see."
Koga: "However, I still don't know what this person's purpose in investigating me is. I could think he's a journalist, but he doesn't seem like one."
Koga continues calmly.
Koga: "He's an eyesore, so I've tried to catch him and question him a few times, but... he's quick to notice and always manages to evade me and get away. So far, he hasn't shown any signs of laying a hand on you, but there's always a chance. So, be careful when you're alone. Don't go to isolated places."
Futaba: "...I understand."
(But is it really okay to let such a strange person loose...?)
I thought for a moment, then sat up and looked at Koga.
Futaba: "Koga, I just had an idea--"
Koga had been listening to me with a surprised look on his face, but then he burst out laughing.
Koga: "I never thought you'd suggest something like that. You're quite the bold one."
Futaba: "R-Really? I'm just worried about you, Koga, and I wanted to enjoy this special trip without any worries..."
Koga: "It's fine. Well, I guess I'll ask for your help."
Futaba: "Yes!"
(I'm always relying on Koga, so I'm happy when he says he needs my help.)
Koga: "Honestly, that's why we started sharing a room. It's unlikely he'll come into your room, but if something does happen, it'll be too late. So please be patient."
(Oh... that's what it was.)
Suddenly, I feel embarrassed that I'd been panicking all by myself without realizing it.
Futaba: "But, um... I don't mind sharing a room. I just wasn't emotionally prepared..."
Koga: "..."
Koga looked intently into my face, then--
Koga: "I know."
He grinned and gave me a light kiss.
Futaba: "What... What was that for...?"
Koga: "Since we're alone, this is fine. Besides, what I said earlier was an afterthought. We were sharing the same room anyway."
Futaba: "Oh, good night."
Koga: "Yeah, good night."
Feeling a little frustrated, I pulled the duvet over my hot cheeks.
•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•
The next day, while Koga was out on his business meeting, I ran an errand for Father.
(I was able to say hello and properly deliver Father's gift.)
(All that's left now is to wait for Koga to come back.)
We'd planned to have dinner together after Koga finished work, so I strolled around town until then.
(Wow, there's a delicious-looking pastry shop...it might make a good souvenir.)
As I was browsing the storefront, I suddenly heard a light-hearted voice.
???: "Excuse me, young lady."
(Eh, me?)
I turned around and saw a strange man with brown hair standing there.
The one who spoke to me was a young man with brown hair.
(Could this person be…?)
Futaba: “……Who might you be?”
??? : “It makes me kind of sad when you’re that wary of me.”
The man doesn’t seem particularly troubled or hurt, and keeps talking in a familiar, easygoing way.
??? : “Oh right, how about having some tea while we introduce ourselves? You’re not very familiar with this area, right? I know a good Western-style restaurant.”
(It seems like he knows I’m not from Kobe.)
(…Just as I thought. He’s the one who was following Kōga.)
???: “It’s okay, I won’t do anything scary. I just want to talk.”
Futaba: “Sorry, I’m in a hurry.”
???: “Oh—”
I said it firmly and quickly walked away from the spot—
？？？: “……”
(…! He’s following me.)
The man didn’t seem to mind much, smiling as he leisurely followed behind me.
(Even when I walk quickly, I can’t shake him off… he’s strolling so casually, yet still keeping up.)
Futaba: “…!”
I glanced behind me, then steeled myself and dashed into the alley. Just as I caught my breath after running into the back alley—
???: “I told you I wouldn’t do anything, didn’t I…”
That man from before suddenly blocked the entrance to the alley.
???: “If you resist me that much, it makes me want to force things even more.”
He closed the distance in an instant, pressing me back against the wall.
Futaba: “.....!”
???: “There’s somewhere I want you to come with me. That’s fine, right?”
Speaking in the same casual tone as before, the man reached out his hand toward me—
“Hey.”
Suddenly, someone else grabbed his arm sharply and twisted it upward.
???: “…!?”
Koga: “I'm the one you have business with, am I right?”
？？？: “……”
Koga: “Futaba, are you alright?”
Futaba: “I’m fine.”
???: “Ah…”
Seeing that I wasn’t surprised, the man seemed to understand everything and relaxed his grip.
???: “I see… so you were set up, huh? Using your own woman as bait—what a guy.”
Koga: “That’s rich, coming from someone who tried to approach another man’s woman.”
Kōga kept hold of his arm, glaring sharply at him.
Koga: “So, what do you want with me? If you’ve got something to ask, say it to my face. Then I’ll answer you.”
???: “Now, now, don’t get so angry. First, how about you let go of my hand—”
His smile vanished, and his eyes suddenly widened—
Koga: “—!?”
Purple smoke rose from the arm being held, forming into fangs that sank into Kōga’s arm.
(…! This man… is an Ayakashi!?)
Koga: “Tch.”
Koga quickly released his arm and turned to face the man, shielding me.
???: “Ah… that hurts…”
The man grimaced, rotating his wrist as he muttered.
???: “Tch… I try to play nice and you take advantage… If it weren’t for orders, I’d tear you apart.”
(Orders…?)
Koga: “…So it’s not just you. Someone else have business with me, huh? What’s your objective?”
???: “Objective? Hah… something like that.”
“Kagari, what are you doing?”
Suddenly, a heavy, commanding voice echoed through the alley.
Unknown Man: “I told you to be respectful when making contact. Did you forget?”
At the sight of the newcomer, I gasped involuntarily.
Kagari: “But, Mr. Kiryū—”
Kiryū: “Enough. Suppress your power. Are you incapable of following orders?”
Kagari: “…Fine, fine.”
The one called “Kagari” obeyed. Towering above us was a broad-shouldered middle-aged man, a cigar in hand, its smoke curling upward.
(What is this…? This man feels incredibly dangerous.)
My instincts screamed that he was someone I should never approach.
The man called “Kiryū” looked at Kōga, then shifted his gaze to me.
Kiryū: “Well, well… and such a lovely young lady you have here.”
Koga: “……”
Kiryū: “My fool behaved disgracefully. Allow me to make it up to you with some tea.”
Kiryū: “My company is just nearby. I’d be honored to invite you.”
(Company? Invite us…?)
Though he said “as an apology,” his tone carried a pressure that left no room to refuse.
Koga: “…Futaba, go back to the inn.”
Futaba: “Eh? But…”
Kiryū: “In that case, I’ll have my men escort her.”
At his words, a line of intimidating men appeared behind him.
(…!)
Koga: “…They’re Ayakashi too. Doesn’t look like you plan to deliver her safely. Is this supposed to be a threat?”
Kiryū : “……”
Futaba: “Kōga, I’ll be fine. I’ll go with you.”
Kiryū: “…Such a sensible young lady.”
The man smiled with satisfaction and began walking ahead, as if to lead the way.
Kiryū: “Welcome. Please, this way.”
Kagari: “……”
Kōga: “……”
Though wary, we followed the man to his so-called “company.”
We were brought to a Western-style building with a sign at the entrance reading Kiryū Trading Company.
(Kiryū… come to think of it, that’s what they called this man too.)
Once inside the reception room, one of his subordinates immediately brought tea.
Kiryū: “This blend is quite popular in England these days. I assure you of its quality.”
Kiryū: “Or perhaps you’d prefer coffee instead?”
Kōga ignored his words, glaring sharply at Kiryū.
Kōga:“Kiryū Trading Company, huh… I’ve heard the name, and the rumors.”
Kōga: “Not that they’re good rumors.”
Futaba: “Rumors…?”
Kōga: “On the surface, they’re just a trading company importing steel… but behind the scenes, they’re said to be dealing in weapons—guns, cannons, all sorts of dangerous stuff.”
(So… that means they’re smuggling weapons?)
Kōga: “Even their legitimate business is notorious for shady practices.”
Kiryū: “Commerce isn’t charity. Ensuring profit is only natural.”
Kiryū took a drag from his cigar, unfazed by Koga’s provocation.
Kiryū: “Well, none of that matters. I didn’t invite you here to discuss business strategies.”
Kiryū exhaled a stream of white smoke, fixing his gaze on Koga.
Kiryū: “Still… the more I look at you, the more you resemble Lord Ouga in his youth. Enough to mistake you for him.”
At the mention of that name, Kōga’s expression changed instantly.
Koga: “…! You knew my father?”
(Kōga’s… father!?)
Kiryū: “Indeed. I was greatly indebted to your father in the past.”
Kōga: “……”
Kōga studied Kiryū carefully, then spoke.
Koga: “Funny thing… I never once heard your name from my father’s lips.”
Kiryū: “…I see. Well, I suppose that’s only natural. To Lord Ouga, my name was of little consequence…Yet for me, it’s something I could never forget. Not for the rest of my life.”
Koga: “…?”
(What is this feeling…?)
He claims to have known Kōga’s father, yet something about him doesn’t sit right. His words and manners are polite, but there’s an unfathomable aura about him.
Even the men standing around us—his subordinates—wore blank expressions, showing no sign of welcome.
Koga: “…Enough. It’s time you got to the point. You didn’t invite us here just to reminisce about my father, did you?”
Kiryū: “Ah, forgive me. You’re right. I invited you here for one reason: I have a proposal for you.”
Kiryū exhaled a plume of smoke, smiling as though savoring the moment.
Kiryū: “—Join me, and let us avenge your father together.”
Koga: “……”
(Revenge…!?)
Shocked by those unexpected words, I glance repeatedly between Kiryu and Koga.
This is a fan-teanslation so expect some misspelling and misinformation here and there, this the first time I translate something THIS big so bear with me ... Each post will be 2 chapter until I finish because I can't post all chapters in one post or Tumblr might die on me ...
LIKES, COMMENTS, AND REBLOGS ARE APPRECIATED PLEASE AND THANK YOU !!!!
Also, today, February 28th marks the 5th anniversary since I played Ayakashi and became Koga's number 1 crazy fan so I decided to post his sequel as a way to celebrate our 5th anniversary together. ENJOY!!!
Teach (No information on his real name or what Ayakashi is he)
Kagemaru's dad (He have a name but I can't trust the translation)
Young uncle Keijiro (b***h fox)
Kiryu (piece of shit No. 1)
Kagari (piece of shit No. 2 and Kiryu's pet)
Ibuki (biggest piece of shit EVER)
CHAPTER 1
--The time is the end of the Edo period, a time of turmoil.
At a shrine in Kyoto, a man leisurely gazed upon the cherry blossoms in the grounds.
???(Ouga): "I should have brought some sake. The scene is so beautiful it's a shame to just look at it."
As the man squinted with satisfaction at the blossoms blooming in all directions, a voice came from behind him.
???(Teach’): "Ah, you're here. I finally found you, Ouga."
The man who called out to Ouga was surprised, but not in a hurry. He seemed to have realized that Ouga was here.
Ouga: "Hey, do you have any Sake?"
??? (Teach'): "Don't even think about asking me. You should head back soon, isn't Katsura coming today?"
Ouga: "Yeah, that's right."
Ouga nodded and returned his gaze to the cherry blossoms.
Ouga: "Satsuma and Choushuu have finally joined hands. Times are about to change."
His gaze shone brightly, fixed powerfully on the future far beyond the cherry blossoms.
???(Teach'): "You look like you're having fun."
Ouga: "You're probably excited inside, too. You're acting so cool."
??? (Teach'): "I'm not particularly interested in the new era. But I don't get bored watching you guys get excited, though."
Hearing his friend's words, in his usual unwavering tone, Ouga laughed cheerfully, then narrowed his eyes in a dazzled manner.
Ouga: "Ayakashi and humans will join hands to create a new era. Something unthinkable just a few years ago is happening right before our eyes. How can we not be excited about this?"
???(Teach'): "..."
Ouga: "Satsuma, Choushuu, pro-Shogunate, humans, and Ayakashi—no difference. We were all born in this country, and we all bear the future of this country."
???(Teach'): "...Yes."
Ouga: "Let's unite everyone and create a world where we can all live equally in peace. I'm willing to sacrifice my entire being for that purpose. This is the greatest task of my life."
As if in response to Ouga's words, the wind blew up cherry blossom petals, dyeing the entire area pink.
Ouga: "Oh, this is a sign of good fortune. This is a good start."
???(Teach'): "You're always optimistic for everything."
The petals flew into the blue sky, and the wind seemed to blow endlessly toward a new era.
•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•
A few years later, after many events and wars, the world transitioned into the Meiji era.
Even after the historic milestones of opening the country to the world and the Meiji Restoration, Japan continued to change at a dizzying pace.
More than 30 years passed in the blink of an eye.
•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•
One day on a holiday, I woke up and went to the living room to find Father already sitting there.
When I called out to him, Dad looked up from the newspaper he was reading.
Futaba: "Sorry, are you heading somewhere? I'll prepare breakfast right away."
Mototaka: "No, I just happened to wake up early this morning. Don't worry about it."
With that, Father spread the newspaper out on the low table so I could see it.
Mototaka: "More importantly, I'd say he's great guy, young Kitamikado. It seems like his new business venture is going well."
Futaba: "Koga's business?"
Mototaka: "Yeah, it's listed here too."
(Come to think of it, I don't think I've heard much about Koga's work.)
I sat next to my father and peered at the newspaper, and sure enough, there was an article titled, "Kitamikado's new business is booming."
(Huh... "The young entrepreneur, Koga Kitamikado, successfully revived a textiles company...")
It seems Koga bought the management rights of a company that was on the verge of bankruptcy.
Futaba: "'Their performance is improving rapidly, and their stock price is rising'...amazing!"
Mototaka: "It seems the stock price of this company is expected to continue to rise. It's only thanks to young Kitamikado's skill that they've been able to turn things around this much."
(It's easy to forget since Koga is usually so friendly, that he's actually quite a genius.)
Seeing him in the newspaper like this really brings home the fact that he's been called "the Imperial Capital's leading young businessman."
(I'm happy that Koga's work is going well.)
Futaba: "Oh, by the way, speaking of Koga, I have plans to meet with him today. We're going out this afternoon to see a play."
Mototaka: "Haha, have fun."
I've already told Father about my romantic relationship with Koga, and he's been supporting me.
Mototaka: "But I never thought Kitamikado-kun and Futaba would get into such a relationship... I was surprised when I heard about it, but I feel safe leaving you in his care."
Futaba: "L- leaving me in his care?!... that's a bit hasty!"
Mototaka: "No, no, parents tend to think about a lot of things. Of course I'm happy, but it feels like my daughter is growing so fast, and I'm a little sad."
Futaba: "Father..."
Just as I was feeling tickled by my father's gentle gaze, Nachi popped hiz head into the living room.
Nachi: "Not to worry, I'm here! Meow...mm..."
Mototaka: "Good morning, Nachi."
Even when he sees Nachi talking in cat form, Father just smiles.
(Father seems to have completely gotten used to the fact that Nachi is an Ayakashi)
After the incident at the Imperial Headquarters was over, I explained everything to Father, including onmyoji and Ayakashi.
Of course, I told him that "Tama" - Nachi - was actually a nekomata Ayakashi, and that he had officially become a part of the family.
Nachi: "I'll always be by your side, Dad! So you won't be lonely, right?"
Mototaka: "Right, right. I'll be happy if Nachi is here."
Futaba: "I... I mean, it's too early to talk about that. Anyway. Nachi, I'm making breakfast, so help me."
--poof
Nachi: "Alright!"
With Nachi in his human form, we headed to the kitchen.
•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•
That afternoon, when I arrived at our meeting place in Asakusa, I spotted a particularly eye-catching red kimono.
(Oh, it's Koga.)
Seeing Koga as he happily chats with the shopkeeper in front of the Sake store, my heart leaps for some reason――――
Futaba: "Koga!"
Feeling excited, I ran over to Koga, calling his name.
Koga: "Hey, Futaba! You don't have to rush, I'm not running away."
My lover smiled, turns around and finds me.
Liquor store owner: "Oh my, now that she has arrived, I guess my time-killing is over."
Futaba: "Oh! Sorry, did I interrupt or something?"
Liquor Store Owner: "No, no, it was just small talk. Mr. Koga was waiting for you, wasn't he? Now Mr. Kitamikado, hurry up and take your lady friend somewhere nice."
Koga: "Yeah, we'll be in our way."
Before Koga was about to leave the porch, the liquor store owner chased after him and whispered,
Liquor Store Owner: "In return, when you hold your wedding ceremony, please be sure to buy some of our sake. I'll give you a discount on my special items, so please look forward to it."
(Wha- a wedding ceremony...!?)
It was still morning, yet my face was involuntarily heating up. In contrast, Koga smiled.
Koga: "Wow, you're good at business. Well, I'll think about it."
He replies casually, then turns to me again.
Koga: "Shall we go, Futaba?"
Futaba: "Yes...!"
A little embarrassed, yet somehow pleased, I started walking alongside Koga.
After seeing the play, Koga and I went to a beef hot pot restaurant.
Futaba: "The play was great! I was so moved by the final scene I nearly cried."
Koga: "I really liked the sword fighting. It was flashy and great."
As we enjoyed our hot pot and exchanged thoughts on the play, Koga suddenly spoke.
Koga: "By the way, I've been planning to go to Kobe for work soon. I'll be away for a few days."
Futaba: "Kobe, huh?... That's far away."
(Koga seems busy with work.)
It reminds me of the article in the newspaper this morning.
(It makes me feel a little sad, but... if it's Koga's work, I still want to support him.)
Futaba: "Please be careful on your way."
Koga: "..."
Futaba: "...? What's wrong?"
Koga stared at me intently, then said without looking away.
Koga: "Do you want to come with me?"
Futaba: "Huh?"
Koga: "I only have one business meeting to attend. I'll leave you alone during that time, but the rest of the time I can spend it with you."
(A trip to Kobe with Koga?!)
Futaba: "I... I'd like to go!"
Surprised by this unexpected invitation, I leans forward and answered in excitement.
Koga: "But it's a faraway place. It'll take a lot of time, if that's okay with you. Even if we take the train, we'll still be stuck on it for more than half a day."
(I see, it's not an easy place to get to like Yokohama.)
Futaba: "But if I'm with you, Koga, I'm sure the train ride will be fun. Besides, I've never been to Kobe before. If you're okay with it, please let me come with you!"
Koga: "Alright. Well, I guess the rest is up to your dad. I can't just take you to Kobe without your dad's consent."
Futaba: "I'll ask Father when I get back, but I think he'll probably say it's okay. Father really trust you, Koga."
As I recall our conversation this morning, Koga narrows his eyes and smiles.
Koga: "Yes, I appreciate that, but you're his precious only daughter. I can't make him worry."
(Koga...)
I was so happy that Koga said that as if it was so important, that a smile naturally spread across my face.
(I guess I really do love Koga.)
Futaba: "I wanted to introduce you to Mother."
I remember the words my mother said to me as I was little, stroking my head.
Mother: "I wonder what kind of person you'll fall in love with, Futaba."
Child Futaba: "love...?"
Mother: "Yes, love. You want to be with this person forever, no matter what. I hope you meet a wonderful person who makes you feel that way."
(Someone I want to be with forever...)
I gazed at the person in front of me.
Futaba: "I'm sure Mother would have liked you, Koga."
Koga: "I see."
Koga stopped moving his chopsticks and looked at me kindly.
Koga: "I wanted to meet your mother too, I wonder if she looks like you."
Futaba: "Father says I'm starting to look more and more like Mother these days."
Koga: "Oh... This makes me wish I had met her."
Futaba: "What about your parents, Koga?"
Koga: "When I was a kid, people often told me I looked like my father."
Futaba: "You look like your father, huh?"
(Koga's parents also died when he was little.)
I'd only heard about Koga's parents once before.
(I think... his father was a soldier, and they lived in the capital.)
(If Koga's parents were still alive... I wonder if they would be happy for us?)
Although I'll never meet Koga's parents...
(...I hope so.)
That's what I secretly hoped.
°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•
When we left the beef hotpot restaurant, the sun was already starting to set.
Koga: "It's getting this late already. I'll ask a ride to take you home. Sorry I can't go all the way home, but I have some business in Kabutocho after this."
Futaba: "I was planning to do some shopping before I went home, so it'll be fine. Plus, the town has calmed down a lot."
The "Red Eye" incident has subsided, and the capital, which was once in a state of crisis, has now completely returned to normal.
Koga: "I haven't heard any rumors of the 'Red Eye' appearing since then."
Futaba: "I haven't sensed any wraiths either. It's like everything that happened just a little while ago was a dream."
My beloved capital, is living peaceful and tranquil days.
Koga: "..."
Koga silently took my hand and gently squeezed it.
I feel the warmth of his large hand and give him a small squeeze in return.
Futaba: "...Koga, I'm so happy right now."
Koga: "What's this all of a sudden?"
Futaba: "Well, I'm so happy to be with you like this, Koga... the capital is at peace, Father and Nachi are all doing well. I just realized how happy I am with every ordinary day, so I couldn't help but say it."
A warm orange sunset envelopes the imperial capital.
Futaba: "I hope days like this to continue forever."
Koga: "... You never say 'I want', do you? We'll keep it going."
Futaba: "Yes!"
(...It's strange.)
(With Koga by my side, I feel like I can definitely do anything.)
Savoring the happiness welling up inside us, we held hands and began walking through the sunset-tinged city.
•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•
---A man was watching Koga and Futaba from the shadows of a building.
??? "Is that the man's son...? He must be a good man, and is in a relationship too."
Glancing at their joined hands with a snort, the man vanished and followed the two.
After trailing them for a while, Koga parted ways with Futaba and headed for Kabutocho.
??? "A brokerage... ah, stocks."
After checking the sign for the store Koga had entered, the man casually called out to an elderly gentleman passing by.
??? "Excuse me, I'd like to ask you something."
Old Gentleman: "Yes?"
???: "Do you know who that gentleman in the red kimono is?"
Old Gentleman: "Red... Ah, you mean Mr. Koga Kitamikado?"
When the elderly gentleman answered, the man looked genuinely surprised.
??? "I see, that's him...! He's a famous person, isn't he? This is the first time I've seen him in person, but I've heard his name often."
Old Gentleman: "Of course. At such a young age, he's already said to be the famous businessman in the Capital. He's also well-known around here as a stock trader. He's quick to seize an opportunity... That's some real talent."
???: "Wow... That's impressive considering he's so young."
They agreed, and the old gentleman continued, proudly as if he were talking about himself.
Old Gentleman: "Of course he has a talent for speculation and business skills, but what's most impressive is his personality."
Old Gentleman: "When he has control of a business, you hardly ever hear any complaints from the people."
??? "What do you mean?"
Old Gentleman: "That's what true paternalism is all about. Not only he offer good wages and working conditions, but he also seem to value the opinions of his frontline partners. No matter what the they say. If the people who works with him aren't happy with their work, the business and the company won't thrive. I know that very well. In fact, everyone who works with him has great trust in him."
???: "Ah, I see... so that's the secret to his success."
Old Gentleman: "People are what drive any business. You can't do anything without gaining people's trust... That said, that's the most difficult thing. It's really difficult, but that gentleman can do it."
The old gentleman squinted, dazzled, at the red kimono peeking out from under the shop's eaves.
Old Gentleman: "I think it's young people like that who will shape the future."
???: "...Yeah. Thank you for talking to me."
Old Gentleman: "No problem."
The man stared intently at the old gentleman's back as he left.
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