Chapter 07: The girl, who fell in love with the Immortal Boy
Both Kirisaki and me blindfolded, we rode an unknown black, high-class car. It likely was so that we couldn’t specify where we were going.
For how long did we drive? Our surroundings lost the ruckus of the city and soon enough we could hear horses and a river. My inner clock told me it took one, no two hours. Anyway, it was a long trip.
Finally the car stopped and a female voice said “Please get out”.
Guided on our hands, we walked a gravel path. After a while, the ground changed to concrete. I heard an automatic door opening. We stopped for a moment, then walked again. It seemed we entered a building. The backs of my shoes hit on the floor with a CLACK, CLACK.
CHING. A bell sounded. An elevator? We stepped in. I felt weightlessness beneath me. It indeed was an elevator. We went downstairs quite a bit. For a period that started to worry me, the boy in where we were trapped didn’t stop.
Another bell. The door must have opened. We once again walked.
BEEP. Along with that sound, a machine continued to work. Kirisaki mumbled “What strict security. So many electronic door locks”, but no one answered. Where were they taking us?
“We are here.” said by a female voice. Then the clattering sound of a manual lock being opened. Everything so far had been high-tech, so why would they rely on manual only at the very end?
“My liking.”
Whose?
The door must have been opened. We walked.
The floor suddenly got soft. A carpet?
The door was closed behind us. Now our blindfolds were removed for the first time.
Not that removing them changed anything. It was pitch-black.
But—I felt a presence. Someone except those, who brought us here. Was someone in front of us…?
“Welcome to my castle.”
An unnatural shrill voice. I thought the voice was familiar, when I remember that it was the same as from the media player.
“I welcome you, Kirisaki Kyouko. And also Node Kugito.”
Suddenly a white light burned my retina. Inadvertently I covered them with my arms. The lights had been turned on.
It was a simply broad room with hardly any furniture. And before us stood an unknown man. His elbows on a high-grade table, he was resting his chin on his crossed hands. But the light was shining on us from right above like a spotlight and the face of the far-away sitting man still was clouded in darkness. Besides him, probably his secretary, was a young woman whose hair was neatly cut around her shoulder.
“I apologize for having to bring you all the way here. Because of my work, I cannot step outside so easily.”
“Then I now can ask the question I had been holding in all the time?”
Kirisaki opened her mouth.
“—Who exactly are you?”
“I cannot answer this question. Didn’t the woman beside you tell you that?”
“You surely can’t expect us to obediently accept all this after just telling us that ridiculous stuff.”
A giggling laughter. The man said.
“You do have a point. But is there any need for me to answer your question?”
“At least,”
Kirisaki answered.
“I have no intention to speak with someone, who won’t even introduce himself.”
“And what if I said your circumstances don’t matter? Judging by this situation, it should be obvious on who is in charge here.”
“Are you threatening me? You sure take me lightly.”
Looking around, Kirisaki snorted.
“I could kill all of these guys immediately and just walk out. Be aware that I’m only behaving now, since I want to know what you’re after.”
“…A confident statement. But can you really do that?”
“What was that?”
At that time I felt the gaze of the man changing towards me. What? But since he didn’t say anything, it might have just been my imagination. A cough sounded.
“Well, fine. Let me grant your wish. Then let me explain. …Putting on airs in a roundabout way or frankly and short, which one do you prefer?”
“The latter please.”
“Really? It’ll be too late to regret afterwards.”
“Just say it.”
“…Okay.”
The man said.
“We are from the government.”
For a moment, my brain was about to blown out of my head.
“G- Government? What are you saying?”
“I knew it would come to this reaction. I think the putting on airs in a roundabout way would have been easier to accept.”
“…Explain it.”
“In short?”
“In order from scratch.”
Kirisaki said, when the man said somewhat happily “Understood”.
“Then where should I start from? Let’s see. This might take some time. First let’s get some coffee. Makiko-kun, coffee please.”
The woman beside him answered.
“I’m not your secretary, so please get it yourself.”
“….I’m going to lose face when you don’t act upon my words here. It’s an iron rule for situations like this.”
“I have no intention to do anything besides my duties.”
Saying that clearly, the woman called Makiko bowed.
“….”
A moment of silence. The man stood up and walked to the back.
“Nah, I don’t really want any coffee.”
“Just talk already.”
“…Is that so?”
The man turned around and said “Then I’ll just get one for me”.
“I’ll talk while I’m getting my coffee. Let’s see…You might already know, but humans are living creatures that sin. To begin with, humans are destined to have to kill other living creatures to survive. Quite sad, isn’t it.”
“If this is going to be a preaching, you’re doing it right. But unfortunately for you, I’m irreligious. And also an atheist.”
“….I believe that god exists. It’s just that he seems to hate us. That’s why he isn’t doing anything. So we have no choice but to survive with out own strength.”
In the silent room, the inappropriate flavour of coffee hung in the air.
“One of that is what we call law. Endless regulations who punish those that committed a crime—They protect our order and promise peace. This system was build on this basis long ago and even with it’s form changed, it was unbroken and proceeding. And even in our current society it is alive.”
“So what about it?”
“Don’t rush me, Node Kugito. ….Still, even in a world protected by laws, some people commit crimes. Though in most of these cases they are judged by the system properly.”
The man returned to his seat with a cup and took a gulp.
“…Kirisaki Kyouko, you’re one of them.”
“….”
“I don’t have to tell you that each human has his own life. And it’s not something to be endangered by someone else. Even less is it unforgivable to sever that life premature.”
The sound of the cup being put away. The man said.
“Actually, Kirisaki Kyouko, while you might think you covered it up nicely, we already know that you are the .”
“What…?”
“While these latest continuous scandals were misleading, the Japanese police is quite capable. Or at least, they aren’t so bad that they would be deceived by the plot of a mere high school girl.”
“…Then why wasn’t I arrested? If what you were saying is true, then I should have been judged right away, shouldn’t I?”
“Indeed. But you see, Kirisaki Kyouko, talent is a dreadful thing. No matter how arrogant or how violent, for a person, who’s called a genius in some field, certain exceptions are made for it’s achievements. Sometimes—even exempting him for the absolute law.”
Kirisaki’s expressionless face twitched. Like she realized something.
“—Kirisaki Kyouko, we were having an eye on your outstanding talent— your excellent killing skills. It means the government considers you valuable for something else, rather than you execute you.”
“…Valuable for something else?”
“Node Kugito aside, you, Kirisaki Kyouko, probably don’t know either. That the world has other criminals that excels at a . They are all people, who would receive the highest punishment at court, but… they are far too capable to just throw them into jail like that, or even to kill them. We—or rather, the people at the top believe that talented people like you should atone in some kind of other way.”
Once again he rested his chin on his crossed hand with his elbows on the table.
“…That is what gave birth to our organisation. We have no name. No, I should say there is no need for a name. Since we officially don’t exists.”
“Enough of your saucy speech. Hurry up and continue.”
“Why so stiff, Kirisaki Kyouko. Well, fine. I’ll be frank.
—Our goal is it to find highly skilled criminals and to scout them for the organisation behind closed doors. Like with your case.”
“…What are you going to make them do after you scouted them?”
“A good question, Node Kugito. By the way, earlier I said that people created laws to judge criminals, but do you believe that to be absolute?”
“What do you mean?”
“Do you think all criminals are judged by the laws?”
“Think or not, early you said yourself that most get judged appropriate.”
“Only most of them, Node Kugito. The world also has criminals that don’t get judged. While they dragged a lot of people into despair, they are happily walking under the sun even now.”
“There are guys like that? Besides the one you try to scout?”
“Exactly. And sadly enough, some laws are made according to them.”
I didn’t get what he was saying.
“You mean politicians and through them corrupted influential people.”
Kirisaki answered. The man said.
“Exactly. Our laws judge criminals. But there are involved various hidden agendas, so depending on the person the judgement can turn void. It is truly pathetic. There are cases where you want to inflict punishment, but cannot do so. Our constitutional state would be shocked if it heard this.”
“Even lamenting about it that now, it has been going on for ages.”
“You sure stay cool.”
“It’s only due that there are contradictions when humans judge other humans. There might be a problem with calling it inevitable, but there isn’t another way.”
“…Do you really believe that?”
The man lightly tilted his head.
“Leaving alone those guys, who hurt many people out of their own selfish profit and making the roots of our country go bad, can you really give up on this reality by calling it ‘inevitable’?”
“People sure love to beat around the bush. Just say it clearly.”
Upon Kirisaki’s challenging words, the man lightly twisted his lips.
“To rule a country, laws are needed. Otherwise humans can’t keep their reasoning. You often hear the dispute about ‘Why am I not allowed to kill a person?’—but the answer is quite simple: Because the law says so. On the contrary, without the law humans would simply kill each other. Because they don’t have a reason not to kill.”
“I don’t think people have fallen that low” There were also people like Rin.
“Oh my, Node Kugito. I never thought I would hear such words from you.”
The man giggled.
“—Weren’t you abused by your father for a long time? I’m impressed you could say that considering we have laws and you saw a person commit a crime right before your eyes.”
“….”
The words were stuck in my throat. To my regret, I couldn’t say anything back.
“….So, what do you want to say? You want to start a revolution, since a law that overlooks criminals is useless?”
“Not really. Law is needed. To keep our reasoning. The problem is that some people want to escape from that.”
The man said.
“—Those who commit crimes, even ignore the laws that were created to prevent these and live an unsightly life, won’t be accepted as humans by us, the government. Non-humans don’t need a law. And to judge those who don’t need laws—normal methods won’t work.”
His voice was shrill—but also ominous.
“So we wondered if there wasn’t a better way and as a result we came up with a brilliant idea. If we cannot officially judge these worst criminals, we just have to have them atone by other means.”
“…Indeed. I can see the picture now.”
Kirisaki clicked her tongue. “You’re the worst.”
“It helps that you’re so quick to understand.”
I was left behind alone.
“Node Kugito-kun, it seems you don’t follow us, so I’ll explain it. Easy to understand, that is.”
Ah, I was taken for a fool.
“Have you ever seen Deadly Workers?”
I wasn’t interested in historical drama. But I knew what it was about.
“I see, too bad. It’s a really interesting show. That aside, my point is: To get rid of those in the shadows, who can’t be judged in public. Of course it’s about cowards, who live a carefree life despite their evil deeds and pretend to be a Samaritan on TV. Just throwing them into jail won’t solve anything. So we literally get rid of them.”
“…You couldn’t be.”
The only visible lower half of the man’s mouth twisted.
“We can. Our goal is it to scout highly skilled criminals and turn them intoworkers, instead of a punishment. Well, to them it’s like a punishment.”
“Wait a moment. Then you want Kirisaki to join your organisation?”
“That’s how it turns out.”
“Don’t fuck with me!”
I tried to run forward, but the black suits behind me hold me in a double nelson. Damn, let go of me!
“Excellent killing skills my ass! Kirisaki’s life was ruined because of it!! And now it was finally about to come to an end!”
“Thanks to you.”
“! …Oh right. You just know everything, huh. Yes, that’s right! She won’t kill anymore! She promised it to me! From now she’ll be a normal girl—”
“You and Kirisaki Kyouko might be fine with that, but what about everyone else?”
“…What?”
“What about the people she killed so far? They were innocent. They were all good people. Surely they had a loving family. What will you say to their saddened wives, husbands, kids, friends and relatives? ‘It couldn’t be helped that they were killed. But things will somehow work out, so please allow her to live as a normal girl now’?”
“…Kuh”
I relaxed my strength. I was released from the hold. When I looked at Kirisaki, she was staring expressionless at the man.
“Don’t you think it’s a bit too convenient to become happy yourself after you ruined a couple if lives, Kirisaki Kyouko?”
Kirisaki looked down. She clenched her fists and said quietly.
“…Yeah.”
“Exactly. Crimes have to be judged. Yours in your own way.”
“And what if I still decline?”
“Then I have no other choice but to execute you right here. We were given this right.”
Silence. Kirisaki took a small breath. Then
“…Just tell me one thing.”
“And what?”
“Were you the ones, who gave my personal data?”
What?
“…You’re sharp. That’s right.”
“What for?”
“Mh, fine. I don’t think you’ll like it, but I’ll explain it if you want.
Like you, — I think that was his handle man. His real name… is not important now.— was marked by us. He also had a high skill, but sadly not even close to your level. But then I had a good idea. It was a good opportunity.”
A good opportunity?
“Who would win in a fight between you two? We were also just at the point to make a final decision about scouting you. Lately was displeased with you and boasted that he’ll become the next . So we called ourselves <God’s child> and gave words of encouragement and your date. We believed doing so would make him go out to kill you. We never imagined he would start killing people around you. Kuon Rin—was her name, right? We caused her quite some trouble.”
“You…!”
I once again tried to move, but was caught by the men.
“Because of you, Rin was! I’ll kill you!”
The man chuckled on my shouting.
“Don’t get the wrong idea, Node Kugito. We are doing nothing but providing possibilities. It might have ended differently though. To the utmost, it was , who inflicted grave wounds on Kuon Rin. Don’t misunderstand that part.”
That was just the same! Fucking bastard!
“…What would happened if I lost?”
“At that time, we would have scouted . If you had lost to him, it would merely mean that this was your limit.”
“I see” Kirisaki sneered. “In the end, and me are just pawns to you.”
“To be frank, yes. Well, though he was a knight and you a queen. The fun about chess is that you can make a turnaround depending on the handling of the ieces. Don’t you agree?”
“I’m not interested in chess, so I don’t know.”
“I see. That’s too bad. …So, what will it be? I would like to hear your answer.”
Kirisaki stayed silence. She cast down her eyes in thoughts.
“Kirisaki…don’t accept. I’ll protect you. I won’t let you be used by them.”
Kirisaki looked at me and smiled. She nodded faintly.
Then she faced in front again, took a deep breath and spit the words out.
“—I decline.”
I got the feeling that the man leaned forward a bit.
“…Hoh? An intriguing answer. You listened to all my story, understood what you had to do and still decline our proposal for guidance?”
“Like you said, there are certainly criminals in this world, who live a carefree live without being judged. And I know that I’m one of those that won’t be forgiven, even without you pointing it out. But becoming your dog and killing others with your permission is a different matter.”
“…Then is there any other way to atone for your crimes?”
“Who knows. I might get official judged without ever getting to know about it. Or I might be killed by someone, who holds a grudge against me. But that’s not right now. It’s in the future. One day, it indeed might come a time where I find a way to atone for my crimes.”
The man laughed. He grumbled a “Geez”.
“Positivism sounds all good, but… it’s a foolish thought, Kirisaki Kyouko. It’s the same as a pseudo idealist, who only prays for a world where everyone lives together in peace. Listen, those who place their eyes onto the distant, unseen future and exaggerate into “one day”, will never do anything. And like that they just fall to ruins with regrets. It’s the same as running away from reality.”
“That might be.”
Kirisaki readily nodded and continued with a “—But”.
“It’s still better than being forced into a choice by you here.”
“….”
“Do you want to become a god? You present a merciful solution and if that’s rejected, you label it as foolish and get rid of everything? Don’t screw with me. I’ll find my own solution. It might be something you cannot agree on and I might lose my life before realizing it, but that’s my responsibility. By all means I decline on a temporarily peace gained by resigning myself to your choices.”
“Even if your actions are hypocrisy?”
“If you call it hypocrisy, then so is your proposal.”
“It’s not hypocrisy, but necessary evil.”
“Just using another word doesn’t change the fact that you’re killing people decorated in gaudy words.”
“Such an inelegant way to put it. It is a purge. Someone has to do it.”
“Your opinion is plausible. But do it on your own. I have not the slightest interest in it. Neither in your ideas, nor in your actions. Not even in your existence itself.”
Kirisaki quickly turned on her heels.
“You sure brought me a long way to tell me a lame story. Kugito, we’re going.”
“Y- Yeah.”
I was completely overwhelmed by Kirisaki’s resolute demeanour. I hastily followed after her.
But the men blocked Kirisaki’s path. Kirisaki glared at them fiercely.
As to match her movement of flipping her skirt, the men reached into their pockets. But—
“Stop it.”
A restraining voice stopped all movement.
“….Good grief. There would have been no problems if you just obediently had listened to me. Actually, I’m a pacifist.”
…Apparently the meaning of “pacifist” had changed without me noticing. The world was at it’s end.
“…Do you plan to kill me?”
“Yeah, that’s right. Regretfully I might have to.”
“Just try it.”
I said. I took Kirisaki’s arm and pulled her to my side.
“Shoot us or whatever. I’ll protect her.”
The man giggled as he took my words as a bluff (not that I could blame him).
“…Even if I don’t kill you here, the hands of law will surely get to you. Is that fine with you?”
“I’ll cross that bridge when I get to it. I prepared myself for at least that much when I set my lifestyle.”
“Do you really believe that?”
“What do you mean?”
“Are you not afraid of death?”
“So persistent. Don’t make me repeat myself. It’s not a matter of being afraid or not.”
The man mumbled solitary.
“—Even now where you know of Node Kugito?”
Kirisaki shut her mouth. Tightening her lips straight, she closed her eyes.
And then
“…It’s the same.”
She said shortly, but determined.
“I see…”
The man fell silent. For a while the silence continued.
“…This is an unpleasant situation. Truly unpleasant. It’s so unpleasant that I’m about to use my last card.”
“What?”
“It seems you still don’t understand. About ‘who’ exactly you’re up against.”
After a sound of searching for something, the man said solitary.
“…Yeah, it’s me.”
I immediately understood that he was making a call. The man frivolous gave a message.
“—An urgent matter. Kill Kuon Rin immediately.”
“…..! Bastard!”
Kirisaki shouted. The man beat on the desk with the index finger of his free hand.
“I didn’t really want to use this card. Since this organisation technically is an ally of justice.”
“Ally of justice my ass…! You’re a coward. You bastard!”
“A leader exists to get a bad name. To get excellent people, I don‘t mind to do any kind of revilement.”
Chuckling, the man said.
“Let’s stop the sweet-talk about atonement and whatnot. Kirisaki Kyouko, I want you. You’re needed for our organisation. I’ll make simple order:
—Kill people for me.”
Kirisaki bit on her lips. She strongly clenched her trembling hands.
“If you still want to go home, then do so. But I’m serious.”
“Kuon— Rin isn’t related to this!”
“That’s what hostages are about. To make people obey without interest, principle and persuasion, this is the best way.”
“…Are you really from the government? What you’re doing is no different from these hoodlums.”
“It’s to show the difference in power between us. Though I peacefully wanted to advance the talk.”
That bastard—I got the impulse to smack him, but I knew there was no point in doing so here. Kirisaki squeezed out her voice.
“You—don’t just kill criminals then? When you kill innocent people for your own gain, then you’re no different from those who judge.”
“You have a point.”
The man held up one finger. He seemed to have somewhat fun.
“Kirisaki Kyouko, that’s why you have to ponder. If my own words were faithful and my order to you was just a bluff to make you waver. Or— If I’m a lying worst kind of guy full of contradiction that would do anything for the organisation.”
Kirisaki’s eyes averted from the man. Her fist were clenched and her teeth grinding. For the first time after coming her, Kirisaki was agitated. Only obvious. Impatience grew in me too. Which of the choices the man offered was correct? “Who” exactly was the man in front of us? No idea. Even though we talked for a while, I couldn’t tell at all what kind of guy the man in front of us was.
“Kirisaki Kyouko, to you, the girl Kuon Rin isn’t someone special. You might even think somewhere in your heart that I should just kill her. But you can’t speak that out aloud. —Right?”
Kirisaki didn’t say anything. The man continued.
“There will be people saddened about Kuon Rin’s death. This will be unbearable for you, won’t it? And by her death, you might lose what you finally got your hands on. That—”
“…Stop it already.”
Finally opening her mouth, Kirisaki said.
“Stop it. I feel sick. I don’t want to talk with you anymore.”
“… Then tell me your answer.”
Kirisaki’s sharp eyes faced me. Like they were urging me. I tried to say something. But before I could, Kirisaki averted her gaze. And then—
“…Fine. I’ll accept your proposal.”
“Kirisaki…”
“Wonderful.”
The man searched for something. Then after a while he said.
“…Yeah, it’s me. Cancel Kuon Rin’s disposal.”
Then a dry sound echoed. At first one. Then they increased. By everyone present except Kirisaki and me. A storm of applause swallowed the place.
Stopping his hand, the man said.
“A wonderful decision. Thank you.”
“Don’t get the wrong idea. I won’t obey your every word. If I don’t like your methods, I’ll resort to suitable methods.”
“For example, like you did earlier?”
An amused tone. Kirisaki didn’t answer. The man said “…Well, fine”.
“Of course I’ll hear out your opinion towards your duty to a certain extent. Having such convenience is only proper. But I won’t allow the refusal of an order itself. Any objections on that?”
“…Should I say it possible depending on the situation?”
“Compromise at least that much. If you’re too selfish, even the gentle me will get angry. My subordinates are all excellent. When I get angry, they ‘work well’ even though I didn’t say anything. To calm me down— Yeah, to make you obedient, they might do something considerate.”
“…You low-life.”
Kirisaki clicked her tongue.
“Completion of negotiations. I’m truly pleased. We will work together for a long time. How about a handshake to our friendship?”
“Don’t get cocky, old geezer.”
I said with a harsh voice. The man laughed with a “…Too bad”.
“Well, fine. Then you can leave for today. In time the woman behind you will bring you a job. From now on, she will be your contact person. She’s young, but very capable.”
The black suits grabbed us at the shoulder. Forcefully turned around, we proceeded. I grinded my back teeth. I was irritated. In the end, I didn’t do anything. I was the most angry at my powerless self.
“Node Kugito.”
I stopped. I stayed without replying, when a voice called out to me from behind.
“I’m not telling you to do anything. You have committed no crime. So we have no right to restrain you. But we want you to stay at Kirisaki Kyouko’s side. From now on too.”
The man continued.
“Node Kugito, why don’t you consider it to be like this? Surely what we do cannot be called correct. But because of our existence, the number of victims is slowly, but steadily decreasing. They won’t turn out like Kuon Rin. From now on Kirisaki Kyouko will undertake dangerous missions. With you at her side, she will be reassured. So, will you cooperate?”
After a moment of silence, I said.
“…What you’re saying might be right.”
I grinded my back teeth.
“But—I don’t like it.”
“Too bad. But most likely, you’ll act like I said. After all, you seem to be soft-hearted.”
You’re saying it, bastard.
“Then I’ll send you off.”
The woman opened her mouth after a long time. Her tone was unchanged stiff.
We were blindfolded.
Then we started walking into the darkness.
When I got off the car, I was at Meitou park near my house. It was already evening. The woman left a “Until then” behind and left.
Kirisaki and me watched the leaving car without saying anything. For a moment I considered memorizing the license plate, but wondering what good it would do, I didn’t. Before long Kirisaki faced me and said.
“…Okay, time to go home. My clothes are dirty and I want to change.”
“…Yeah.”
As such we started to walk. We loitered on an empty street with just us two.
I followed lightly behind Kirisaki and watched her back. That continued for a while, but suddenly I shouted “Kirisaki”. She stopped.
“…What?”
“Well…do you know what you did?”
“Of course.”
Kirisaki turned around, linked arms with me and said.
“We don’t know if they are really from the government. But it’s certain that they are rather dangerous. It was highly likely that Kuon Rin would have been killed if I hadn’t said that.”
Well, yeah…
“Are you really fine with that? Somehow it turned into a real mess.”
“…Kugito.”
What?
“Were your words on that rainy day when you embraced me true?”
“…What?”
“I won’t leave you alone.”
Kirisaki looked at me. The setting sun dyed her profile red.
“…Yeah.” I nodded firmly.
“I said it on the spur of the moment, but… I’ll keep my promise.”
“I see.”
Kirisaki smiled.
“Then I’m fine.”
“You, well, you know—you might have to risk your life. Are you going to find your resolve on these mere words?”
“It aren’t mere words. They were important to me. I’m fine with just having you by my side.”
I was at a loss for words. I also thought so when she told me that when we were walking all alone, but how could she say that so simply?
“…But you’re going to kill. Again. You finally—might have been able to live a normal life.”
“…I know. To be honest, it’s frustrating to be used. But—it might be a retaliation for ending up with a relation to someone.”
She sighed. Kirisaki leaked a wry smile.
“It might be some kind of punishment for the crimes I, who had to live in solitude, committed….”
She raised her hand and strongly clenched it in front of her chest.
“—But”
Kirisaki said.
“I don’t regret to have chosen to live by meeting you. Even when if it’s in exchange for various despair and sadness I have to shoulder from now on.”
She strongly declared.
“—I plan to find my own solution in the atonement that was forced onto me.”
Then she deeply lowered her head towards me.
“So, please take care of me again.—I want you to stay with me until the end.”
“…You.”
“Of course—I won’t tell you to leave everything behind as to stay with me. That would be… too convenient. Since it really doesn’t concern you.”
“…No—”
I scratched my head. So, what should I say…
Such a situation was a first for me—-well, obviously. At times like these, I should just say something quickly.
“…Somehow…”
Sorting the words in my head, carefully opened my mouth.
“It turned into a bigger mess than I had anticipated. I can’t keep up with it at all. What I understand is that it’s quite dangerous. To be honest, I want to run away.”
“Understandable.”
“But leaving you behind and returning to my every day life alone is probably impossible.”
“…If you’re worried about me, there is no need to. That much—”
“I should not worry? Impossible. To be frank, that’s absolute impossible.”
I sighed.
“When I ate at home, take a bath, watch TV or read a book, I’ll definitely think about you. Wondering what you’re doing right now. If you’re cutting people or getting cut while I’m leading a peaceful life. I would be so worried that I can’t sleep. Definitely. That’s just a huge bother for me.”
“Kugito…”
“So staying with you around the clock is way better. Then I don’t need to worry needlessly.”
Besides, I added.
“While that guy’s words pisses me off, it makes sense. When this power, which I thought to be absolute useless, can help even a bit to prevent the emerging of victims like Rin, then it becomes meaningful for me too. That’s why it’s not your problem alone.”
I put my hand on Kirisaki’s head and nodded deeply.
Then I rustled her head like that and argued.
“So don’t say it doesn’t concern me. I told you. I’m dating you. From beginning to the end.”
“…”
“Mh? What’s up?”
“No—Nothing.”
Kirisaki adjusted her hair and faced forwards somewhat hastily.
“…I understand your feelings. It can only be called feyness.”
“Ah. I was about to think so too.”
“But—”
Kirisaki mumbled quietly. I couldn’t hear it well, but it sounded like a—thanks.
“You said something”
“No, nothing. Okay, let’s go home. Tomorrow I have to pay Kuon Rin a visit.”
“Don’t suddenly revert back to such every day talk.”
“I don’t know what the future brings. But let’s enjoy the present, Kugito.”
“I can’t tell if you’re positive or just not thinking at all.”
“Being positive means not to think at all, doesn’t it.”
Uh, I couldn’t deny that.
“By the way, what would be could for a get well gift?”
“Like I know. They say you should take something you would like to receive yourself.”
“I see. Then a new knife.”
“Stop it.”
“A killing manual.”
“Stop it.”
“A psycho horror story about the every day life of a killing devil.”
“Anymore and I’ll get angry.”
“The CIA’s”
“Stop!”
Kirisaki started to walk. I continued to follow behind her and during our never-ending exchange, I suddenly looked up to the sky.
The madder red sky was stupidly clear.
“…Geez.”
Now that I thought about it, I got involved with someone unbelievable. Could it be it’s your fault up there? Then I’ll come flying up right away and smack you a good one. I’ll threaten you to put an end to it with that. So, how’s it? Mh?
I waited for a while, but I didn’t get an answer.
Only obvious.
I got the feeling that someone someday said that worrying was proof of being alive. But well, I couldn’t care less.
“Hey, Kugito. Let’s go already.”
“…Yeah.”
I made a big sigh.
Just how would things turn out from now on?
Of course I didn’t know that. But one thing was certain. My agony seemed to be far from over.
Postscript: Never-ending story
The man stood in the dim darkness.
A needless broad room. There were only him and a woman.
“…When things go well, I can’t help but actually doubt it. That I actually might be deceived.”
The woman answered the man’s mumbling.
“You’re the one, who deceived.”
“How rude. I merely listed them the possibilities. I didn’t know if they would accept it or not.”
“But once again we won them over like planned.”
“Exactly. It means I won the bet.”
The man picked up a paper from the table. There were written detailed data about a person.
“<Immortal Boy>, huh—A truly fascinating person. He might prove even more usable than Kirisaki Kyouko.”
While chuckling amused, the man turned on the stand light. The paper glided onto the table.
“Let’s put both of them to good use next time—”
Lightened up in orange, the context of the paper revealed itself in the dim darkness.
<Name: Node Kugito>
<Gender: Male>
<Age: 17>
<Personality: On first glance he looks composed with a pessimistic view, but a passion is buried within him>
<Family Circumstances: Lost his mother at a young age. Grew up with abuse from his father, later left the house with his older sister Yukika. Since then those two live together>
<Characteristics: Has an abnormal cell regeneration ability and a defence ability against attacks to his body (could not be analyzed)—>
<In other words, immortal>
Chapter 07: The girl, who fell in love with the Immortal Boy
Both Kirisaki and me blindfolded, we rode an unknown black, high-class car. It likely was so that we couldn’t specify where we were going.
For how long did we drive? Our surroundings lost the ruckus of the city and soon enough we could hear horses and a river. My inner clock told me it took one, no two hours. Anyway, it was a long trip.
Finally the car stopped and a female voice said “Please get out”.
Guided on our hands, we walked a gravel path. After a while, the ground changed to concrete. I heard an automatic door opening. We stopped for a moment, then walked again. It seemed we entered a building. The backs of my shoes hit on the floor with a CLACK, CLACK.
CHING. A bell sounded. An elevator? We stepped in. I felt weightlessness beneath me. It indeed was an elevator. We went downstairs quite a bit. For a period that started to worry me, the boy in where we were trapped didn’t stop.
Another bell. The door must have opened. We once again walked.
BEEP. Along with that sound, a machine continued to work. Kirisaki mumbled “What strict security. So many electronic door locks”, but no one answered. Where were they taking us?
“We are here.” said by a female voice. Then the clattering sound of a manual lock being opened. Everything so far had been high-tech, so why would they rely on manual only at the very end?
“My liking.”
Whose?
The door must have been opened. We walked.
The floor suddenly got soft. A carpet?
The door was closed behind us. Now our blindfolds were removed for the first time.
Not that removing them changed anything. It was pitch-black.
But—I felt a presence. Someone except those, who brought us here. Was someone in front of us…?
“Welcome to my castle.”
An unnatural shrill voice. I thought the voice was familiar, when I remember that it was the same as from the media player.
“I welcome you, Kirisaki Kyouko. And also Node Kugito.”
Suddenly a white light burned my retina. Inadvertently I covered them with my arms. The lights had been turned on.
It was a simply broad room with hardly any furniture. And before us stood an unknown man. His elbows on a high-grade table, he was resting his chin on his crossed hands. But the light was shining on us from right above like a spotlight and the face of the far-away sitting man still was clouded in darkness. Besides him, probably his secretary, was a young woman whose hair was neatly cut around her shoulder.
“I apologize for having to bring you all the way here. Because of my work, I cannot step outside so easily.”
“Then I now can ask the question I had been holding in all the time?”
Kirisaki opened her mouth.
“—Who exactly are you?”
“I cannot answer this question. Didn’t the woman beside you tell you that?”
“You surely can’t expect us to obediently accept all this after just telling us that ridiculous stuff.”
A giggling laughter. The man said.
“You do have a point. But is there any need for me to answer your question?”
“At least,”
Kirisaki answered.
“I have no intention to speak with someone, who won’t even introduce himself.”
“And what if I said your circumstances don’t matter? Judging by this situation, it should be obvious on who is in charge here.”
“Are you threatening me? You sure take me lightly.”
Looking around, Kirisaki snorted.
“I could kill all of these guys immediately and just walk out. Be aware that I’m only behaving now, since I want to know what you’re after.”
“…A confident statement. But can you really do that?”
“What was that?”
At that time I felt the gaze of the man changing towards me. What? But since he didn’t say anything, it might have just been my imagination. A cough sounded.
“Well, fine. Let me grant your wish. Then let me explain. …Putting on airs in a roundabout way or frankly and short, which one do you prefer?”
“The latter please.”
“Really? It’ll be too late to regret afterwards.”
“Just say it.”
“…Okay.”
The man said.
“We are from the government.”
For a moment, my brain was about to blown out of my head.
“G- Government? What are you saying?”
“I knew it would come to this reaction. I think the putting on airs in a roundabout way would have been easier to accept.”
“…Explain it.”
“In short?”
“In order from scratch.”
Kirisaki said, when the man said somewhat happily “Understood”.
“Then where should I start from? Let’s see. This might take some time. First let’s get some coffee. Makiko-kun, coffee please.”
The woman beside him answered.
“I’m not your secretary, so please get it yourself.”
“….I’m going to lose face when you don’t act upon my words here. It’s an iron rule for situations like this.”
“I have no intention to do anything besides my duties.”
Saying that clearly, the woman called Makiko bowed.
“….”
A moment of silence. The man stood up and walked to the back.
“Nah, I don’t really want any coffee.”
“Just talk already.”
“…Is that so?”
The man turned around and said “Then I’ll just get one for me”.
“I’ll talk while I’m getting my coffee. Let’s see…You might already know, but humans are living creatures that sin. To begin with, humans are destined to have to kill other living creatures to survive. Quite sad, isn’t it.”
“If this is going to be a preaching, you’re doing it right. But unfortunately for you, I’m irreligious. And also an atheist.”
“….I believe that god exists. It’s just that he seems to hate us. That’s why he isn’t doing anything. So we have no choice but to survive with out own strength.”
In the silent room, the inappropriate flavour of coffee hung in the air.
“One of that is what we call law. Endless regulations who punish those that committed a crime—They protect our order and promise peace. This system was build on this basis long ago and even with it’s form changed, it was unbroken and proceeding. And even in our current society it is alive.”
“So what about it?”
“Don’t rush me, Node Kugito. ….Still, even in a world protected by laws, some people commit crimes. Though in most of these cases they are judged by the system properly.”
The man returned to his seat with a cup and took a gulp.
“…Kirisaki Kyouko, you’re one of them.”
“….”
“I don’t have to tell you that each human has his own life. And it’s not something to be endangered by someone else. Even less is it unforgivable to sever that life premature.”
The sound of the cup being put away. The man said.
“Actually, Kirisaki Kyouko, while you might think you covered it up nicely, we already know that you are the .”
“What…?”
“While these latest continuous scandals were misleading, the Japanese police is quite capable. Or at least, they aren’t so bad that they would be deceived by the plot of a mere high school girl.”
“…Then why wasn’t I arrested? If what you were saying is true, then I should have been judged right away, shouldn’t I?”
“Indeed. But you see, Kirisaki Kyouko, talent is a dreadful thing. No matter how arrogant or how violent, for a person, who’s called a genius in some field, certain exceptions are made for it’s achievements. Sometimes—even exempting him for the absolute law.”
Kirisaki’s expressionless face twitched. Like she realized something.
“—Kirisaki Kyouko, we were having an eye on your outstanding talent— your excellent killing skills. It means the government considers you valuable for something else, rather than you execute you.”
“…Valuable for something else?”
“Node Kugito aside, you, Kirisaki Kyouko, probably don’t know either. That the world has other criminals that excels at a . They are all people, who would receive the highest punishment at court, but… they are far too capable to just throw them into jail like that, or even to kill them. We—or rather, the people at the top believe that talented people like you should atone in some kind of other way.”
Once again he rested his chin on his crossed hand with his elbows on the table.
“…That is what gave birth to our organisation. We have no name. No, I should say there is no need for a name. Since we officially don’t exists.”
“Enough of your saucy speech. Hurry up and continue.”
“Why so stiff, Kirisaki Kyouko. Well, fine. I’ll be frank.
—Our goal is it to find highly skilled criminals and to scout them for the organisation behind closed doors. Like with your case.”
“…What are you going to make them do after you scouted them?”
“A good question, Node Kugito. By the way, earlier I said that people created laws to judge criminals, but do you believe that to be absolute?”
“What do you mean?”
“Do you think all criminals are judged by the laws?”
“Think or not, early you said yourself that most get judged appropriate.”
“Only most of them, Node Kugito. The world also has criminals that don’t get judged. While they dragged a lot of people into despair, they are happily walking under the sun even now.”
“There are guys like that? Besides the one you try to scout?”
“Exactly. And sadly enough, some laws are made according to them.”
I didn’t get what he was saying.
“You mean politicians and through them corrupted influential people.”
Kirisaki answered. The man said.
“Exactly. Our laws judge criminals. But there are involved various hidden agendas, so depending on the person the judgement can turn void. It is truly pathetic. There are cases where you want to inflict punishment, but cannot do so. Our constitutional state would be shocked if it heard this.”
“Even lamenting about it that now, it has been going on for ages.”
“You sure stay cool.”
“It’s only due that there are contradictions when humans judge other humans. There might be a problem with calling it inevitable, but there isn’t another way.”
“…Do you really believe that?”
The man lightly tilted his head.
“Leaving alone those guys, who hurt many people out of their own selfish profit and making the roots of our country go bad, can you really give up on this reality by calling it ‘inevitable’?”
“People sure love to beat around the bush. Just say it clearly.”
Upon Kirisaki’s challenging words, the man lightly twisted his lips.
“To rule a country, laws are needed. Otherwise humans can’t keep their reasoning. You often hear the dispute about ‘Why am I not allowed to kill a person?’—but the answer is quite simple: Because the law says so. On the contrary, without the law humans would simply kill each other. Because they don’t have a reason not to kill.”
“I don’t think people have fallen that low” There were also people like Rin.
“Oh my, Node Kugito. I never thought I would hear such words from you.”
The man giggled.
“—Weren’t you abused by your father for a long time? I’m impressed you could say that considering we have laws and you saw a person commit a crime right before your eyes.”
“….”
The words were stuck in my throat. To my regret, I couldn’t say anything back.
“….So, what do you want to say? You want to start a revolution, since a law that overlooks criminals is useless?”
“Not really. Law is needed. To keep our reasoning. The problem is that some people want to escape from that.”
The man said.
“—Those who commit crimes, even ignore the laws that were created to prevent these and live an unsightly life, won’t be accepted as humans by us, the government. Non-humans don’t need a law. And to judge those who don’t need laws—normal methods won’t work.”
His voice was shrill—but also ominous.
“So we wondered if there wasn’t a better way and as a result we came up with a brilliant idea. If we cannot officially judge these worst criminals, we just have to have them atone by other means.”
“…Indeed. I can see the picture now.”
Kirisaki clicked her tongue. “You’re the worst.”
“It helps that you’re so quick to understand.”
I was left behind alone.
“Node Kugito-kun, it seems you don’t follow us, so I’ll explain it. Easy to understand, that is.”
Ah, I was taken for a fool.
“Have you ever seen Deadly Workers?”
I wasn’t interested in historical drama. But I knew what it was about.
“I see, too bad. It’s a really interesting show. That aside, my point is: To get rid of those in the shadows, who can’t be judged in public. Of course it’s about cowards, who live a carefree life despite their evil deeds and pretend to be a Samaritan on TV. Just throwing them into jail won’t solve anything. So we literally get rid of them.”
“…You couldn’t be.”
The only visible lower half of the man’s mouth twisted.
“We can. Our goal is it to scout highly skilled criminals and turn them intoworkers, instead of a punishment. Well, to them it’s like a punishment.”
“Wait a moment. Then you want Kirisaki to join your organisation?”
“That’s how it turns out.”
“Don’t fuck with me!”
I tried to run forward, but the black suits behind me hold me in a double nelson. Damn, let go of me!
“Excellent killing skills my ass! Kirisaki’s life was ruined because of it!! And now it was finally about to come to an end!”
“Thanks to you.”
“! …Oh right. You just know everything, huh. Yes, that’s right! She won’t kill anymore! She promised it to me! From now she’ll be a normal girl—”
“You and Kirisaki Kyouko might be fine with that, but what about everyone else?”
“…What?”
“What about the people she killed so far? They were innocent. They were all good people. Surely they had a loving family. What will you say to their saddened wives, husbands, kids, friends and relatives? ‘It couldn’t be helped that they were killed. But things will somehow work out, so please allow her to live as a normal girl now’?”
“…Kuh”
I relaxed my strength. I was released from the hold. When I looked at Kirisaki, she was staring expressionless at the man.
“Don’t you think it’s a bit too convenient to become happy yourself after you ruined a couple if lives, Kirisaki Kyouko?”
Kirisaki looked down. She clenched her fists and said quietly.
“…Yeah.”
“Exactly. Crimes have to be judged. Yours in your own way.”
“And what if I still decline?”
“Then I have no other choice but to execute you right here. We were given this right.”
Silence. Kirisaki took a small breath. Then
“…Just tell me one thing.”
“And what?”
“Were you the ones, who gave my personal data?”
What?
“…You’re sharp. That’s right.”
“What for?”
“Mh, fine. I don’t think you’ll like it, but I’ll explain it if you want.
Like you, — I think that was his handle man. His real name… is not important now.— was marked by us. He also had a high skill, but sadly not even close to your level. But then I had a good idea. It was a good opportunity.”
A good opportunity?
“Who would win in a fight between you two? We were also just at the point to make a final decision about scouting you. Lately was displeased with you and boasted that he’ll become the next . So we called ourselves <God’s child> and gave words of encouragement and your date. We believed doing so would make him go out to kill you. We never imagined he would start killing people around you. Kuon Rin—was her name, right? We caused her quite some trouble.”
“You…!”
I once again tried to move, but was caught by the men.
“Because of you, Rin was! I’ll kill you!”
The man chuckled on my shouting.
“Don’t get the wrong idea, Node Kugito. We are doing nothing but providing possibilities. It might have ended differently though. To the utmost, it was , who inflicted grave wounds on Kuon Rin. Don’t misunderstand that part.”
That was just the same! Fucking bastard!
“…What would happened if I lost?”
“At that time, we would have scouted . If you had lost to him, it would merely mean that this was your limit.”
“I see” Kirisaki sneered. “In the end, and me are just pawns to you.”
“To be frank, yes. Well, though he was a knight and you a queen. The fun about chess is that you can make a turnaround depending on the handling of the ieces. Don’t you agree?”
“I’m not interested in chess, so I don’t know.”
“I see. That’s too bad. …So, what will it be? I would like to hear your answer.”
Kirisaki stayed silence. She cast down her eyes in thoughts.
“Kirisaki…don’t accept. I’ll protect you. I won’t let you be used by them.”
Kirisaki looked at me and smiled. She nodded faintly.
Then she faced in front again, took a deep breath and spit the words out.
“—I decline.”
I got the feeling that the man leaned forward a bit.
“…Hoh? An intriguing answer. You listened to all my story, understood what you had to do and still decline our proposal for guidance?”
“Like you said, there are certainly criminals in this world, who live a carefree live without being judged. And I know that I’m one of those that won’t be forgiven, even without you pointing it out. But becoming your dog and killing others with your permission is a different matter.”
“…Then is there any other way to atone for your crimes?”
“Who knows. I might get official judged without ever getting to know about it. Or I might be killed by someone, who holds a grudge against me. But that’s not right now. It’s in the future. One day, it indeed might come a time where I find a way to atone for my crimes.”
The man laughed. He grumbled a “Geez”.
“Positivism sounds all good, but… it’s a foolish thought, Kirisaki Kyouko. It’s the same as a pseudo idealist, who only prays for a world where everyone lives together in peace. Listen, those who place their eyes onto the distant, unseen future and exaggerate into “one day”, will never do anything. And like that they just fall to ruins with regrets. It’s the same as running away from reality.”
“That might be.”
Kirisaki readily nodded and continued with a “—But”.
“It’s still better than being forced into a choice by you here.”
“….”
“Do you want to become a god? You present a merciful solution and if that’s rejected, you label it as foolish and get rid of everything? Don’t screw with me. I’ll find my own solution. It might be something you cannot agree on and I might lose my life before realizing it, but that’s my responsibility. By all means I decline on a temporarily peace gained by resigning myself to your choices.”
“Even if your actions are hypocrisy?”
“If you call it hypocrisy, then so is your proposal.”
“It’s not hypocrisy, but necessary evil.”
“Just using another word doesn’t change the fact that you’re killing people decorated in gaudy words.”
“Such an inelegant way to put it. It is a purge. Someone has to do it.”
“Your opinion is plausible. But do it on your own. I have not the slightest interest in it. Neither in your ideas, nor in your actions. Not even in your existence itself.”
Kirisaki quickly turned on her heels.
“You sure brought me a long way to tell me a lame story. Kugito, we’re going.”
“Y- Yeah.”
I was completely overwhelmed by Kirisaki’s resolute demeanour. I hastily followed after her.
But the men blocked Kirisaki’s path. Kirisaki glared at them fiercely.
As to match her movement of flipping her skirt, the men reached into their pockets. But—
“Stop it.”
A restraining voice stopped all movement.
“….Good grief. There would have been no problems if you just obediently had listened to me. Actually, I’m a pacifist.”
…Apparently the meaning of “pacifist” had changed without me noticing. The world was at it’s end.
“…Do you plan to kill me?”
“Yeah, that’s right. Regretfully I might have to.”
“Just try it.”
I said. I took Kirisaki’s arm and pulled her to my side.
“Shoot us or whatever. I’ll protect her.”
The man giggled as he took my words as a bluff (not that I could blame him).
“…Even if I don’t kill you here, the hands of law will surely get to you. Is that fine with you?”
“I’ll cross that bridge when I get to it. I prepared myself for at least that much when I set my lifestyle.”
“Do you really believe that?”
“What do you mean?”
“Are you not afraid of death?”
“So persistent. Don’t make me repeat myself. It’s not a matter of being afraid or not.”
The man mumbled solitary.
“—Even now where you know of Node Kugito?”
Kirisaki shut her mouth. Tightening her lips straight, she closed her eyes.
And then
“…It’s the same.”
She said shortly, but determined.
“I see…”
The man fell silent. For a while the silence continued.
“…This is an unpleasant situation. Truly unpleasant. It’s so unpleasant that I’m about to use my last card.”
“What?”
“It seems you still don’t understand. About ‘who’ exactly you’re up against.”
After a sound of searching for something, the man said solitary.
“…Yeah, it’s me.”
I immediately understood that he was making a call. The man frivolous gave a message.
“—An urgent matter. Kill Kuon Rin immediately.”
“…..! Bastard!”
Kirisaki shouted. The man beat on the desk with the index finger of his free hand.
“I didn’t really want to use this card. Since this organisation technically is an ally of justice.”
“Ally of justice my ass…! You’re a coward. You bastard!”
“A leader exists to get a bad name. To get excellent people, I don‘t mind to do any kind of revilement.”
Chuckling, the man said.
“Let’s stop the sweet-talk about atonement and whatnot. Kirisaki Kyouko, I want you. You’re needed for our organisation. I’ll make simple order:
—Kill people for me.”
Kirisaki bit on her lips. She strongly clenched her trembling hands.
“If you still want to go home, then do so. But I’m serious.”
“Kuon— Rin isn’t related to this!”
“That’s what hostages are about. To make people obey without interest, principle and persuasion, this is the best way.”
“…Are you really from the government? What you’re doing is no different from these hoodlums.”
“It’s to show the difference in power between us. Though I peacefully wanted to advance the talk.”
That bastard—I got the impulse to smack him, but I knew there was no point in doing so here. Kirisaki squeezed out her voice.
“You—don’t just kill criminals then? When you kill innocent people for your own gain, then you’re no different from those who judge.”
“You have a point.”
The man held up one finger. He seemed to have somewhat fun.
“Kirisaki Kyouko, that’s why you have to ponder. If my own words were faithful and my order to you was just a bluff to make you waver. Or— If I’m a lying worst kind of guy full of contradiction that would do anything for the organisation.”
Kirisaki’s eyes averted from the man. Her fist were clenched and her teeth grinding. For the first time after coming her, Kirisaki was agitated. Only obvious. Impatience grew in me too. Which of the choices the man offered was correct? “Who” exactly was the man in front of us? No idea. Even though we talked for a while, I couldn’t tell at all what kind of guy the man in front of us was.
“Kirisaki Kyouko, to you, the girl Kuon Rin isn’t someone special. You might even think somewhere in your heart that I should just kill her. But you can’t speak that out aloud. —Right?”
Kirisaki didn’t say anything. The man continued.
“There will be people saddened about Kuon Rin’s death. This will be unbearable for you, won’t it? And by her death, you might lose what you finally got your hands on. That—”
“…Stop it already.”
Finally opening her mouth, Kirisaki said.
“Stop it. I feel sick. I don’t want to talk with you anymore.”
“… Then tell me your answer.”
Kirisaki’s sharp eyes faced me. Like they were urging me. I tried to say something. But before I could, Kirisaki averted her gaze. And then—
“…Fine. I’ll accept your proposal.”
“Kirisaki…”
“Wonderful.”
The man searched for something. Then after a while he said.
“…Yeah, it’s me. Cancel Kuon Rin’s disposal.”
Then a dry sound echoed. At first one. Then they increased. By everyone present except Kirisaki and me. A storm of applause swallowed the place.
Stopping his hand, the man said.
“A wonderful decision. Thank you.”
“Don’t get the wrong idea. I won’t obey your every word. If I don’t like your methods, I’ll resort to suitable methods.”
“For example, like you did earlier?”
An amused tone. Kirisaki didn’t answer. The man said “…Well, fine”.
“Of course I’ll hear out your opinion towards your duty to a certain extent. Having such convenience is only proper. But I won’t allow the refusal of an order itself. Any objections on that?”
“…Should I say it possible depending on the situation?”
“Compromise at least that much. If you’re too selfish, even the gentle me will get angry. My subordinates are all excellent. When I get angry, they ‘work well’ even though I didn’t say anything. To calm me down— Yeah, to make you obedient, they might do something considerate.”
“…You low-life.”
Kirisaki clicked her tongue.
“Completion of negotiations. I’m truly pleased. We will work together for a long time. How about a handshake to our friendship?”
“Don’t get cocky, old geezer.”
I said with a harsh voice. The man laughed with a “…Too bad”.
“Well, fine. Then you can leave for today. In time the woman behind you will bring you a job. From now on, she will be your contact person. She’s young, but very capable.”
The black suits grabbed us at the shoulder. Forcefully turned around, we proceeded. I grinded my back teeth. I was irritated. In the end, I didn’t do anything. I was the most angry at my powerless self.
“Node Kugito.”
I stopped. I stayed without replying, when a voice called out to me from behind.
“I’m not telling you to do anything. You have committed no crime. So we have no right to restrain you. But we want you to stay at Kirisaki Kyouko’s side. From now on too.”
The man continued.
“Node Kugito, why don’t you consider it to be like this? Surely what we do cannot be called correct. But because of our existence, the number of victims is slowly, but steadily decreasing. They won’t turn out like Kuon Rin. From now on Kirisaki Kyouko will undertake dangerous missions. With you at her side, she will be reassured. So, will you cooperate?”
After a moment of silence, I said.
“…What you’re saying might be right.”
I grinded my back teeth.
“But—I don’t like it.”
“Too bad. But most likely, you’ll act like I said. After all, you seem to be soft-hearted.”
You’re saying it, bastard.
“Then I’ll send you off.”
The woman opened her mouth after a long time. Her tone was unchanged stiff.
We were blindfolded.
Then we started walking into the darkness.
When I got off the car, I was at Meitou park near my house. It was already evening. The woman left a “Until then” behind and left.
Kirisaki and me watched the leaving car without saying anything. For a moment I considered memorizing the license plate, but wondering what good it would do, I didn’t. Before long Kirisaki faced me and said.
“…Okay, time to go home. My clothes are dirty and I want to change.”
“…Yeah.”
As such we started to walk. We loitered on an empty street with just us two.
I followed lightly behind Kirisaki and watched her back. That continued for a while, but suddenly I shouted “Kirisaki”. She stopped.
“…What?”
“Well…do you know what you did?”
“Of course.”
Kirisaki turned around, linked arms with me and said.
“We don’t know if they are really from the government. But it’s certain that they are rather dangerous. It was highly likely that Kuon Rin would have been killed if I hadn’t said that.”
Well, yeah…
“Are you really fine with that? Somehow it turned into a real mess.”
“…Kugito.”
What?
“Were your words on that rainy day when you embraced me true?”
“…What?”
“I won’t leave you alone.”
Kirisaki looked at me. The setting sun dyed her profile red.
“…Yeah.” I nodded firmly.
“I said it on the spur of the moment, but… I’ll keep my promise.”
“I see.”
Kirisaki smiled.
“Then I’m fine.”
“You, well, you know—you might have to risk your life. Are you going to find your resolve on these mere words?”
“It aren’t mere words. They were important to me. I’m fine with just having you by my side.”
I was at a loss for words. I also thought so when she told me that when we were walking all alone, but how could she say that so simply?
“…But you’re going to kill. Again. You finally—might have been able to live a normal life.”
“…I know. To be honest, it’s frustrating to be used. But—it might be a retaliation for ending up with a relation to someone.”
She sighed. Kirisaki leaked a wry smile.
“It might be some kind of punishment for the crimes I, who had to live in solitude, committed….”
She raised her hand and strongly clenched it in front of her chest.
“—But”
Kirisaki said.
“I don’t regret to have chosen to live by meeting you. Even when if it’s in exchange for various despair and sadness I have to shoulder from now on.”
She strongly declared.
“—I plan to find my own solution in the atonement that was forced onto me.”
Then she deeply lowered her head towards me.
“So, please take care of me again.—I want you to stay with me until the end.”
“…You.”
“Of course—I won’t tell you to leave everything behind as to stay with me. That would be… too convenient. Since it really doesn’t concern you.”
“…No—”
I scratched my head. So, what should I say…
Such a situation was a first for me—-well, obviously. At times like these, I should just say something quickly.
“…Somehow…”
Sorting the words in my head, carefully opened my mouth.
“It turned into a bigger mess than I had anticipated. I can’t keep up with it at all. What I understand is that it’s quite dangerous. To be honest, I want to run away.”
“Understandable.”
“But leaving you behind and returning to my every day life alone is probably impossible.”
“…If you’re worried about me, there is no need to. That much—”
“I should not worry? Impossible. To be frank, that’s absolute impossible.”
I sighed.
“When I ate at home, take a bath, watch TV or read a book, I’ll definitely think about you. Wondering what you’re doing right now. If you’re cutting people or getting cut while I’m leading a peaceful life. I would be so worried that I can’t sleep. Definitely. That’s just a huge bother for me.”
“Kugito…”
“So staying with you around the clock is way better. Then I don’t need to worry needlessly.”
Besides, I added.
“While that guy’s words pisses me off, it makes sense. When this power, which I thought to be absolute useless, can help even a bit to prevent the emerging of victims like Rin, then it becomes meaningful for me too. That’s why it’s not your problem alone.”
I put my hand on Kirisaki’s head and nodded deeply.
Then I rustled her head like that and argued.
“So don’t say it doesn’t concern me. I told you. I’m dating you. From beginning to the end.”
“…”
“Mh? What’s up?”
“No—Nothing.”
Kirisaki adjusted her hair and faced forwards somewhat hastily.
“…I understand your feelings. It can only be called feyness.”
“Ah. I was about to think so too.”
“But—”
Kirisaki mumbled quietly. I couldn’t hear it well, but it sounded like a—thanks.
“You said something”
“No, nothing. Okay, let’s go home. Tomorrow I have to pay Kuon Rin a visit.”
“Don’t suddenly revert back to such every day talk.”
“I don’t know what the future brings. But let’s enjoy the present, Kugito.”
“I can’t tell if you’re positive or just not thinking at all.”
“Being positive means not to think at all, doesn’t it.”
Uh, I couldn’t deny that.
“By the way, what would be could for a get well gift?”
“Like I know. They say you should take something you would like to receive yourself.”
“I see. Then a new knife.”
“Stop it.”
“A killing manual.”
“Stop it.”
“A psycho horror story about the every day life of a killing devil.”
“Anymore and I’ll get angry.”
“The CIA’s”
“Stop!”
Kirisaki started to walk. I continued to follow behind her and during our never-ending exchange, I suddenly looked up to the sky.
The madder red sky was stupidly clear.
“…Geez.”
Now that I thought about it, I got involved with someone unbelievable. Could it be it’s your fault up there? Then I’ll come flying up right away and smack you a good one. I’ll threaten you to put an end to it with that. So, how’s it? Mh?
I waited for a while, but I didn’t get an answer.
Only obvious.
I got the feeling that someone someday said that worrying was proof of being alive. But well, I couldn’t care less.
“Hey, Kugito. Let’s go already.”
“…Yeah.”
I made a big sigh.
Just how would things turn out from now on?
Of course I didn’t know that. But one thing was certain. My agony seemed to be far from over.
Postscript: Never-ending story
The man stood in the dim darkness.
A needless broad room. There were only him and a woman.
“…When things go well, I can’t help but actually doubt it. That I actually might be deceived.”
The woman answered the man’s mumbling.
“You’re the one, who deceived.”
“How rude. I merely listed them the possibilities. I didn’t know if they would accept it or not.”
“But once again we won them over like planned.”
“Exactly. It means I won the bet.”
The man picked up a paper from the table. There were written detailed data about a person.
“<Immortal Boy>, huh—A truly fascinating person. He might prove even more usable than Kirisaki Kyouko.”
While chuckling amused, the man turned on the stand light. The paper glided onto the table.
“Let’s put both of them to good use next time—”
Lightened up in orange, the context of the paper revealed itself in the dim darkness.
<Name: Node Kugito>
<Gender: Male>
<Age: 17>
<Personality: On first glance he looks composed with a pessimistic view, but a passion is buried within him>
<Family Circumstances: Lost his mother at a young age. Grew up with abuse from his father, later left the house with his older sister Yukika. Since then those two live together>
<Characteristics: Has an abnormal cell regeneration ability and a defence ability against attacks to his body (could not be analyzed)—>
<In other words, immortal>
