|Will you die with me?

The curtains of a dimly lit room danced.

The fierce wind sent chills to the bone.

As rapid as it was, it could never reach the candles at the corner.

In between a clock and an art work made of tin foil, it stood there, unfazed.

There was a lid guarding it, with a little hole through which the scent diffused through the violent wind. It was racy and invigorating.

It never failed to get me in the mood. I was feeling quite nostalgic because of it.

"That smell, so you did light the candles." I attempted grabbing her velvet robe, but I was just too weak.

"Of course, to mark this special occasion. We would fade out. Quietly, elegantly, sacredly."

"I tear up sometimes when I think about just how well you know me."

What was I saying? I’ll have said that to anyone.

“You really think that? I for one would have to disagree. I don’t think I know you that well.”

“That’s a lie.”

No it’s not.

“It’s really not. I only know the parts of you I’m supposed to know. Nothing more, nothing less.” she closed her eyes, before returning her gaze where it belonged.

“Why is that?”

“Some memories I tend to dispose of when I no longer consider them meaningful . Now that I think about it, perhaps it was simply out of habit."

That's your excuse?

"No, it’s not that.” she paused. “I don’t even have any silly memories of you that I can recall.That’s really awful.” she grabbed my crotch with a loose grip. Still..What strength. To think that just like me, this woman slit her own wrists.

“Hey, stop that.” I said gently. My mind wandered too far and I started thinking about 'it' again.

“I remember the time we met at my movie premiere.It was love at first sight.”

“At that very moment, I just knew I had to make you mine.”

“Also, the time we rented all the seats in that cinema.”

“It was your movie, darling.”

“Even the time we nearly got stung by a jelly-fish.”

…...I actually don’t remember that…..

“When was that?”

“The trip was in Busan. Before we came to Tokyo.”

Oh… It’s been three years since then.

“You see, that counts as something silly.”

“You think? I’m your fiancee and those are the first things I remember. Perhaps those are the parts I remember because those are the parts I want to highlight when I think of you. Or maybe a part of me did not want to acknowledge the other parts?”

I think she’s been a bit too hard on herself. Don’t you agree??

“Am I talking too much?”

“Not at all. I wanna hear your voice. It keeps me calm.”

“Someone doesn’t wanna talk to me.” she turned away.

“Or perhaps you’re upset.”

“You can cross that off. I was just thinking. Is this similar to intoxication?”

“Not too sure.”

“Forget I said that. At least you can’t forget the memory of me doing a top turn, right?”

“Haha, we were on an island in Greece. I still don’t know why you attempted surfing when it was clearly your first time.”

“I guess I was just trying to impress you. Most things I do I get perfectly right on the first try so I thought that same rule was going to save me.”

“I wish I knew everything about you, even the parts you hid from me. But at least I understand that it’s impossible now.”

I felt a sour taste in my mouth but at the same time, I felt slightly relieved.

“Well, I appreciate your honesty. And your undying love for me.”

"You better.I'm doing all this for you… Ngh." she nearly fell off the bed.

"I've got the pills. Let's take our time." I hurriedly whispered as I grabbed her. Her breathing became shallower as time passed. Of course, the same could be said for me.

“I must be out of my mind.”

“Maybe you are.” I smirked.

"Hansha, hold me."

"My lady, your wish is my command." I instinctively placed my head in between her bountiful bossom. Something about her words sparked a flame hidden in my mind.

"You didn't have to say it like that."

"Siobhan.."

"Haha, come here."

Our empty eyes attracted like magnets. In her embrace, I felt her warmth in it's entirety. As our bodies opened up to one another, the gross yet gentle feeling embedded in our chests throbbed. No words were spoken. Just two dead men walking, engaging in a last-ditch attempt at pleasure. We didn’t know how much time had passed, but we laid under the covers marked by our own blood. Staring at the dark ceiling served as an excuse for doubt to seep in. However, that doubt was unfounded.

"No headaches?"

"None so far."

"What a happy coincidence."

"I must have hurt a woman in my past life. I'm sure my luck is being held by the neck to something as ridiculous as that."

“Knowing you, it could be actually be the case.” she chuckled upon hearing my remark.

“Think the pills are fake?”

"I think that's just your body's way of telling you that you probably shouldn't go through with this."

"Please don't say such cruel words."

Not now….

"I'm serious."

"I have no doubts, I can assure you. I was thinking maybe with more time, your doubts resurfaced."

"So we both had that insecurity."

"Not enough trust,eh? Maybe after another round, our trust will deepen."

"You sure are horny, Hansha." she softly giggled.

"One of my best qualities.” I sighed.

“I know how strongly you feel about this so we might as well end this in the right way."

"And mood. I'll give you the pills.”

“I was thinking the same thing.”

“What’s the worst that could happen? It’s just as you said. We need to make sure we end it properly.”

“Mouth to mouth?” I looked down at her lips, as it inched closer to mine.

“Consider this my parting gift."

"I'm glad.. I'm glad it's you."

"Likewise, I don't really believe in the afterlife so I don't know what to say in times like these."

"Your silence is more than enough. It’s more comforting than a lullaby."

"You know the right words to say all the time."

"One of my few gifts."

As our lips pressed together, I felt a small circular tablet passed from tongue to tongue. As I swallowed it, my eyes were even more numb, all I could see was her. Her blonde hair that was so silky, it made me jealous. Her soft thighs that comforted me for many, many nights. A birth mark that sat right beneath her breasts. I was one of few that knew this mark and was honored for that. Sometimes I wished it was something more than just that.

She then swallowed hers and grabbed onto me. Even in death, we were together. I didn’t want to be anywhere else.

"I'll see you in the next life."

"And we'll be together again."

Goodbye, my dear………

...........................................................................

".….."

I could feel the morning light make it's way to the bedroom, I could smell the extinguished candles and the essence from within. I could see the hour glass on the dresser that stood out. That begged the bigger question.

Why were my eyes open?? Why was I awake?? Why was I alive?

Beside me, my lover laid there, like a lifeless doll. She was beautiful. That was the plan. I had not the heart to wake her up. I already knew all that awaited me was more misery, despite the flickering bits of hope in my heart.

"That drug killed us. It definitely did."

That's the only logical conclusion I deduced in my trance like state. I turned to my blood soaked hands, they were still flowing.

"My blood…has been flowing for hours on end? That means I’m dead!!! There’s no mistaking it."

If that was the case, why was my head aching so badly? Why was my regular morning queasiness hitting now? THAT CONTRADICTS EVERYTHING!!!

"What...am I?" I turned to the exit door, the blood on my feet made solid footprints, one of many.

Without any regard for the robe that covered my nakedness, I walked to the elevator. It was then that I saw my reflection and noticed how much I had been stained, defiled, ridiculed. By fate? god? Who made such a fool out of me?

I passed through over a dozen floors before I got to the reception on the ground floor. I had to find someone. Someone who could affirm my existence.

"Excuse me?"

"Wha-- Sir, we do not accept or tolerate nudity in this institution. Is that wine, Sir?" I almost laughed. Was I going to be sued for sexual harassment before I died? That wasn’t important.

"Forget that. Tell me, what am I?"

"Huh? Sir, I would have to call security if you remain as is.Y-Your arm!!!"

"Fair enough. I have my answer."

"I'll call the ambulance right away. Hang on Sir!!"

“If that’s the case, I’m sorry.”

“Hello. Yes. Its’ an emergency. A young man is bleeding profusely. The blood is everywhere. I don’t know what details you need but you need to get here immediately.”

“You see, I did something terrible in this hotel.”

“Huh?? I’m the receptionist. I don’t know where the hell the manager is right now. Yes, I am perfectly calm. Please just come right away. I can’t.. I can’t deal with this.”

I grabbed my arm and attempted licking off the marks from the cut. Other than the fact that I was always interested in tasting my own blood, it was ultimately futile.

It was like stopping a stream with a hollow plank of wood. Really what was I thinking? Even the receptionist couldn’t help but scream.

“I think I’m done with life. Good talk, by the way.”

“He just li-- Don’t you dare hang up on me. He might do something drastic!!!”

“Heh.” I grabbed the light pink strands of hair on my head firmly and grabbed my chin. In one smooth transition..

*snap*

“AHHHHHHHHH!!!!!”

The last sounds I heard were from the main TV basically on loop.

"Opening hours are right around the corner. Esteemed guests, if you need any help whatsoever, you could contact the overall management, room service, kitchen and maintenance staff and your needs will be swiftly attended to.

Please note that we might not be able to attend to you immediately as some services are not available 24 hours.

Also, breakfast is in preparation and will be delivered to you shortly. Thank you for your patience.”

Hopefully, this time was the last time.

Hopefully, this time I was free…

As my skull came crashing, and all the lights escaped my sight, I had just one wish…..

Please be the last time… For my humanity.. For my family’s sake… For Siobhan’s sake….Please don’t wake up… If I do, I am a murderer…

A week after( a day before rememberance day)

In his office, team Raiha received an hour’s worth of tongue lashing from Fudo. Both were missing during an emergency case, which was temporarily nulled.

“Are you listening?” he loosened his tie, glancing back at the two who seemed desperate to be anywhere else.

"We've got it, we've got it." she grabbed a pillow and covered her ears with it.

"Jeez. Is he typically like this?"

"Sensei is always chatty but not this chatty. Perhaps his parental instincts kicked in."

"And you. You're in a good mood today."

"I'm always in a good mood."

"You're in a better mood today."

"Maybe."

"Speaking of.. I believe I saw you.."

"Where?"

"Or someone that looked a bit like you. Same posture, walking pattern."

"Probably me then. Had some business to take care of before returning to HQ."

"Maid cafe visit?"

"Of course not. I'm not as obsessed as you. And why are you here studying my body?" she grinned and covered her chest with her arms "Fudo sensei."

"You two aren’t even taking this seriously!!! And Zirou, quit being a pervert!!"

The sound of the TV drowned out their voices. This was an important week in Japan.

{

"It is 9am in Shinjuku station. You're live with Mio and this is station 95 news. We are taking a tour around the neigbourhood, with the rememberance day fast approaching. I wonder what are your preparations?

Today marks 21 years since the horrific incident. With the tech sector constalty evolving, origins of this catastrophe are still unknown. Reports also state word of a blood red lunar eclipse originated from this area. It's importance immortalized by the underground station that saved the lives of hundreds if not thousands on that day. To show our appreciation, join me with the Minster of National Defence." the camera zoomed out, showing the man’s presence. He had been following her along all this time.

"It is a privilege to be here. As you can see, I’ve enjoyed the tour and I hope you did too. Honestly, I wasn't expecting to be this year's flamebearer. Last year, we had that singer right?"

"Indeed,Sir. He was the most influential figure in the country last year. Have you listened to his music by any chance?"

"Can't say I have, but I was a bit jealous nonetheless. Who knew I would be the one next up to partake in this historic moment."

"It's not hard to understand why. You have been the sole force behind the recent policy change. The future is looking bright.”

“Thanks to our collective effort of course.”

“You're truly the man of the people."

"I like the sound of that, haha."

"Now, sir. If you may.." she solemnly nodded, placing the torch in his hands as they stopped at a golden statue.

This was one of the recent statues gaining significant importance. Rivaling that of other historic figures. It was simply a man shielding a lady from debris. Inspired from real life account of a man rescuing a woman on the day of the corruption point.

"Here's to a new era." He then lit the tiny leaf on the ground that radiated and spread around other leaves suspended in the air. They were in tandem, forming the infinity symbol that kept dancing and flipping around. The audience were in awe.

With a slight click of the tongue, he changed the channel.

"Hey." she remarked.

"A new era? Give me a break. Who are the ones backing him? He's so clueless."

"He looks like a decent person though."

"He's so unbearable."

{

"I've been saying for a while now, that's the wrong way to look at it."

"Then how, pray tell, should I--no-- the people look at this? Do you need another graph emphasizing how bad the birth rate is? It's down to hell."

"I acknowledge that but---"

"But what?? How long do you think before we finally die out?"

"What are you talking about? Reports say in the next 50 years, population should stabilize and--"

"Should not will. What would you logically say indicates our population would stabilize in the future? Tell me one thing."

"I'll tell you if you allow me finish."

"The floor is yours. I'm curious as to how you have the answers when our prime minister apparently doesn't."

"First things first, we need to add some context to these stats you're putting forward. It might be 'down in hell', that much is true. However, we've been hit with the most unprecedented disaster in human history. You could possibly explain the meteors that eradicated all life at that time but this?? Till now, we've got no leads and most importantly, we've got no help.

We are fighting a losing battle against forces we don't fully understand and yet, we are seeing an improvement in standard of living in the last 10 years. We've gotten back on our feet and the ones that are alive are starting to believe in themselves again..And what we are worried about is the population? That's bizzare."

"So in other words, you've not got the answers. What an absolute joke."

"With all the fear-mongering going on, I need to remind our dear viewers where we were, where we are and what we're looking at. The future is bright, I tell you."

"That's exactly what I'm doing. You're dancing around all inconveniences. How much were you paid to spout such nonsense?"

"How dare you…"

}

"That's enough TV for today."

"I was watching that." she stretched and grabbed the remote, noticing the batteries were out. Not wanting to waste her efforts, she physically went over to the TV to turn it on. "Hahaha okay that was hilarious. Whose side were you on?"

"That's awful. Both of them are out of it. I don't agree with anyone but I think they've got a few good points."

"Sometimes I wonder, is it really that bad? Then I remember I have no time to think about everyone while my problems keep getting bigger." he sighed.

"Are you an ex yakuza or something?"

"He probably is."

"Anyway. I learnt a new trick yesterday."

"Hey, quit ignoring me." she pointed at the man who was busy on his phone.

"Show us."

“Sure.” he flicked his fingers and suddenly a veil of wind surrounded her. It was the shape of a cube and enveloped the space essentially warping the waves on the TV.

"I haven't perfected it but right now, no sound in here can be heard on the outside."

"I'm guessing the same goes for outside."

"Spot on. Also, movement is prohibited. The only thing she can move are her lips."

"This is genius. Ideal for any situation. Espionage, interrogation, assassinations."

"Gotta tell Atsuko about this."

"She's probably stomped with work."

"Why not get an assistant?" he had a strong feeling she wasn’t a fan of delegation.

"She already has one. You’ve probably not seen her yet because she’s so busy. You see, whatever Fujisaki says goes. She could ask for every pipeline distributing water to be replaced with milk and guess who needs to find a way to make it work?”

“Oh, so that type of assistant. Reminds me of medieval kings and their advisors.”

“I mean, yes. Fujisaki is reasonable but also very much ambitious. Her word is law. The rest that she herself is left with are all the things that she physically can’t delegate.”

“Gotcha. Team Raiha's first unsupervised mission. Are you excited, partner?"

"......"

"Oh." he released the cage she was kept in and as soon as she was released, she started hitting. They were playful but the punches were landing. His shoulders were slightly bruised.

"Deserved."

"Dumbass."

"So. What are your thoughts on the barrier?"

"It's awful. Don't ever use that on me."

"Right. I'm sorry."

“Zirou. By the way, you’ll meet Miss Chika sooner or later. She’s probably getting a butt load of work just based off this lunatic.” he points at the TV.

{ "We deserve to touch the sky too!!!" }

"What's his name again?"

"Gory Tony."

"Thought the idiot took a break."

“Well, now he’s back with his goons.”

“What a shame. For an ex pilot to be spiraling like this.”

"How on earth is he making his own aircraft and flying across the border without the Civil Aviation Bureau interfering?"

"To be fair, he's always been a target, since the moment he stepped foot into the country."

"I'm sure he knows that. He's failed so many times now.”

"What are Atsuko's thoughts on it?"

"She says let them be. Covering things up don't really interest her. She thinks this is an advantageous situation for her. I agree with her on this one."

"Surprised you actually agree with her for once, Sensei."

“You make me sound like a contrarian.”

“Well, we’re off.”

“Goodluck.”

"I've been thinking about what he said. Just how much of a chokehold does Atsuko have on the higher ups?"

"You don't wanna know."

"Heh, you don't know either."

"As much as I love her, that's a whole other realm I don't think I wanna get involved in." "Smart choice. I barely even see her."

"Hmm, I wonder why."

"The midget finally learned sarcasm. Anyway, we've been walking for quite a while. Where's this moby board you speak of?"

"We've gone passed a few, actually. As you can see, it's pretty crowded around this time so it's better to find a free space."

"Let's head to the tenth floor."

"You sure about that?"

"I don't care if I meet her there."

"If you say so."

"Not gonna use your powers?"

"With great power comes great responsibility."

"Shut up. I guess you're saving it up. Also a smart choice."

"Here we are. This is our most beloved moby board. The pride and joy of the strategic efficiency department."

"I'll pretend like I know what that is."

"What was I expecting? Have a look. It has a log of recent cases, any logical pattern surrounding any region, possible predictions. Case reports depending on what you're going for. Let's just say it has everything."

"So a super advanced bulletin board."

"I guess. The main reference was your standard wanted lists." he placed his hands on the light blue projection that spread out then compressed to a single point, forming tiny boxes with each available case, with its rank, info, distance, likely appearance time and so on. of course, these things were regulated. based off your team rank, you got your fill of missions that you could realistically complete. All within calculations.

“Hmm. I don't wanna go for that one.” she squeezed in. thoroughly observing the box in the middle.

"It says. 'be careful. potential womanizer.’ "

"what the hell. That's a first, even for me."

"He's just that perverted, that's all. I think we should take it."

"No,we are absolutely not." she made the cross sign with her arms.

"What's there to be scared about. It's literally just a pervert."

"Wonder what he does to women?"

"What if he's into men?"

"Then it wouldn't say womanizer? Gosh you're an idiot."

"Hahahahaha. Pissing you off is one of the best things a person could do."

"Be serious for once."

"Someone like you should be choosing the best of the best." her frizzy hair caught his attention.

"Who are you?"

"Akase Nonoka. Nice to meet you.” she kept her hands in the pockets of her hoodie that looked like something she walked out of bed with. Her tights were complemented with her dull dark boots. She placed her hands on the side of her lips, right where her birth mark lied. Just a quick peek at his mission list. Nothing more.

“Interesting.”

“Huh?”

“The strong never flee from the hunt. I expect the same from you."

"Straight to the point. I like that."

"Pardon me. I need to select my missions now."

"Oh. Go for it."

She places her hand on the board and it glowed gold.

"If you see any ones that have to do with water or wind, let me know. Those are basically free food. Fire? I'm not too sure about that. My powers aren't really advantageous in that scenario. my clothes might even get burnt." she rubbed her chin smoothly, the corner of her eyes meeting with him.

"How likely are my clothes to get burned in that scenario?"

"I don't know? But I’ll say it’s better they get burned."

"I see. Well all these seem boring. Should I go back to bed?” she fantasized about slacking off. Whatever Zirou was made out of, she had it in higher concentration. She snapped out of it midway.

“I wanna take one in Kyoto. It's been a while, actually. I don’t really know."

"You do more of something you hate in order to take control of it right?"

"Is that how it works?"

"That's how all the pieces of my life have fallen so far."

"I see. Then I'll go for this."

"Do you work solo?"

"It really depends."

"She works with Ino."

"Shhh." she whispered in her ears.

"Oh, that prick."

"He just goes around making everyone mad at him. Well, it's not been long since we became partners. I'm open to having one more."

"Thanks but no thanks. Currently got my own thing going. Unless you want to leave that insufferable imp and join me. I think we'll make a solid team, don't you think?"

"I do but then again, I'm stronger than you so that wouldn't work."

"Oh?"

"Didn't miss idol tell you? I'm top 3 around here, and I know I'm not three."

"That's a relief. I was questioning how strong the rest of you guys were. Think you could take my Sis on?"

"Think I could take her? I know I can take her. Luckily for the both of us, we are not enemies so we can’t go all out. Anyway. I'll choose another S class case. This one looks intriguing. Sound waves. Hehe, that's a nice meal."

"You choose multiple S class missions per day?"

"Of course." she raised the peace sign.

"When your life is on the line, you learn, you grow. That thrill is second to none. When you win, everything after is coated in victory. the sleep is better. the food is better. the sex is better. You're only at your best when your life is on the line."

"You're unbelievable."

"I know."

"Well, mine's purple."

"You're a rank below me. That's understandable. You can't be killing all the big bad right away. Take it nice and slow and then..."

Much to everyone’s surprise, she pounced on him.

"You would reach me at the top." she kissed his cheeks.

"I like you. let's have dinner sometime."

"I'll think about it."

"Not even a hint of joy. That’s a bit refreshing.Good enough for now. See ya later, newbie…. Miss idol."

"what a woman."

"What a womanizer." she stared daggers at him.

“It’s not my fault someone has no sense of romance.Besides, if Atsuko was the one all on you like that, you would’ve loved it.”

“Lies!!”

“How old are you again?”

“18.”

“You see? Age has nothing to do with it.”

“Ugh, what are we picking? I was a bit involved the last time. So you get to choose since this is a first for you.”

“Let’s look around. The invisible ghost. I think we can go for that one. The other two. Let’s see. Raging alcoholic that can intoxicate anyone with their touch. Weird but sure. Moon wiener.. What kind of name is that?”

“Ignore that!!! It says he gains an absurd amount of strength when it’s a full moon.”

“Sooo he gets strong once a month. Like that lady said. This is a fine meal.”

“Wait, dumbass. This is graded A. Plus when’s the next full moon?”

“I don’t care. I’ll win either way.”

Sigh..

“Let’s do it your way, then.”

“Team Raiha’s first, independently and thoroughly thought out mission streak starts now.”

“This again….” she stared at his hands then reluctantly met it.

“Let’s do this.”

The moon hung in the sky, marking the end of the day. It was safe to say things went pretty smoothly so far but more was to come.

In a cheap bar around town, a middle aged woman sat, drunk and miserable. Work had ended but despite that, immense sorrow filled her heart. She didn’t know why and she couldn’t shake this feeling off either.

"Gosh. I don't know anymore." with a heavy sigh, the lady rested her head on her palm. From her dark green iris, you could tell she was seeking some miraculous breakthrough. He responded to that.

"What's the matter? You look lost.” she turned to the man who stylishly leaned in, grabbing a seat.

“You think so? It’s nothing important. Just having some trouble deciding.”

“Mind filling me in?” his nonchalant demeanor pulled her in. Just what she needed on this occasion.

“Suit yourself. Though, it’s quite embarrassing to say the least.”

“Sounds interesting. Bartender, I’ll have what she’s having.” he snapped his fingers, turning the attention of the bartender. Upon returning to their side of the table, she sighed internally. With such a sigh, you could age over a hundred years.

“That’s the problem.”

“Huh?”

The bartender’s smile or rather, the best impression of a smile was rather amusing to the man.

“She’s going to be mad at me. Jeez, I’m such a mess.”

“What’s got you so indecisive to begin with?”

“I mean, if you can’t tell, my head’s a bit light but I want just a drink or two before I call it a night.”

“You sound like a lightweight.”

“I’m not your typical lightweight and I’m not satisfied either.I’m not sure you’ll understand.”

“I get it.In that case, let this geezer put in his two cents. Just to warn you, I’m no expert. Let’s help her out a bit, right?” he winked at the bartender who nodded in response.

“No no, she’s useless. She’s been offering me non alcoholic drinks.”

“Madam, this is a light mix of tropical juice, ginger ale and a portion of vodka. It might be light but it is alcoholic nonetheless.”

“What did you call it? Fireworks?”

“Indeed. It is a custom blend that sparkles in the mouth.”

"More like fireworks in your gut."

"Haha, sounds like something I'll try." he snuck a glance at her once more and tapped on the table lightly. The lady wore a regular office shirt, tucked in promptly with her long skirt that showed no skin. Her shoulders were left exposed from the grey cardigan that hung loosely.

“I don’t care about any of that. You said it is light in alcoholic but the alcohol is basically non existent when you taste it.”

"Pardon me." he grabbed the glass cup she toyed with and took a quick sip.

"That's refreshing."

"How dare you? That's my--"

"This might be one of my favourites here. Talk about a coincidence."

"I'll keep that in mind, Sir."

"You probably wouldn't even remember me. Anyway, get the fine lady whatever she wants. Oh, she doesn't know what she wants." the bartender chuckled lightly.

"What’s funny?" without even looking, her icy tone was enough to cut the fun short. Turning her attention back where it belonged, he shoved a palm right next to her face. It seemed like the plea was effective.

"Woah woah calm down. How about you get the strawberry rose spritzer? Can't go wrong with that."

"Or you can keep it old school with a mojito."

“Ughhh, I'll have what he's having. With more ice." She spared no thought to her amusing response. At her current state, who knew if she had any thoughts to spare.

‘So, back to your fireworks? What a pain’, thought the bartender but she replied with a smooth and easy “On it.”

"Hahaha.On me, of course. Including this one." he snapped his fingers in style.

"How generous of you." her face barely lit up, but a hint of joy and perhaps even relief on it.

"One of my best qualities."

The bartender on the other hand was neither surprised nor amused. She already knew she was just bait for the man but refused to get in the way. This was as messy as far as bar hustling went. There was no need to get tangled in such nonsense.

"Boring, boring, boring. These guys are all boring. My poor eyes capture nothing but mediocrity and I can't stress how concerning that is. I need inspiration. I need amusement. Isn't this an abysmal experience for you too?"

"You're right. It is an abysmal experience, precisely due to the fact that I'm having a drink all by myself tonight."

"I see."

"And inspiration from a bar? That's odd."

"No, it's not. This is one of the best environments to get inspiration. I can tell you know nothing about the creative process."

"Well, you might be right. The only creative process I'm involved in is making money." "Shocker." she laughed dryly.

"In cases like these, you typically have to look inward. It says more about you than anything."

"You're pretty bold."

"I know. Another one of my best qualities. What about you? I’m guessing you rarely come here except you’re looking for an escape."

“So, you want to know more about me?”

“Ehh.. yeah?”

"Of course you do. Well, one of my many qualities is ensuring karma is equally distributed."

"Huh??"

"I make sure people get what they deserve. Whether that's good or bad, but I prefer the bad. You can guess why."

"You look stunning but then again, you’re quite odd." he stared into her dark green colored eyes.

"I'm just kidding. Storytelling is what I'm best at. I could write a script so compelling, upon hearing it you'll ring your accountant immediately just to be a part of my project. Of course, Chie Ari is a money printer."

"...." noticing the grin she had on, he was speechless.

"Why do you look surprised? Don't tell me you're a fan?"

"Nope. Never heard of you."

*splash*

The entire floor was wet and even the DJ had to stop momentarily. His eyes stung as he wiped them with his sleeves repeatedly.

"What a shame. Turns out another quality of yours is dishonesty." whether or not she was getting kicked out, it didn’t really matter.

“Quite distasteful.” he clicked his tongue.

“Haha, the mask is off.”

“I'll get you some wipes sir.”

“No need. I'm afraid that wouldn't do. Unfortunately it's on my hair too. Pardon me. I need to go to the wash room.”

“I'll be waiting.” she was smiling like a kid as he hurriedly took off.

Unknown to the man, the first glass of fireworks had a slight mix to it. It escaped even the bartender’s watchful eye. She spiked her own drink!!!

The middle aged men washed his face thoroughly but something was clearly wrong here. Was it his body heat? His unusual fascination with the dark haired lady. Why did he ask the guards to let her be. This was not his night for sure. He returned with his pink colored hair tied to the back as usual.

"Where were we?" his insufferable smile made her blood boil.

"Maybe you were offended about my tone. This time I’m a tad bit more interested about your work. I see you take lots of pride in it, so tell me more about it.” he stretched his hands in intrigue.

"I don't need to tell you. I would have said try picking up one of them but it's clear you've never picked up a book in your life."

"Ha that's ironic.” he clasped his hands together. “Don’t make weird assumptions like that. I've written one myself."

"A writer that can't read?"

"You made that claim, no? And besides, your claim is nothing but elitism masked behind empty criticism."

"Is that so?"

“To be fair, it’s not even empty criticism. Just a weak attempt to get back at a neutral person that doesn’t recognize your art, am I right?”

“Yes, you are. Happy?” she frowned at the bartender who simply turned elsewhere. “I was this close to accepting your company based on how handsome and charismatic you are but you’re too much of a douche. I hate people like you.”

“Well, you don’t know me. I’m not some character in your book. Best take that advice or every encounter will turn to shit.” he couldn’t afford to stare at her too long because his eyes betrayed his words.

"I'll pay for your drinks but I hate your company. So I'll be taking my leave."

"The feeling is mutual. Just make sure we don’t cross paths again, okay?"

"Careful there, your wrinkles are showing." he snickered, grabbing his coat he hung.

"What did you just say?"

"Turns out creative souls are terrible with make up. It's not doing anything."

"And I thought the night couldn’t get any worse.Let's take this outside, fucker.” she swung her fists without a moment’s hesitation but he caught it mid swing.

"Way ahead of you." he grabbed her hands.

"We're way too reckless to still be in here. Come with me."

"Get your filthy hands off."

"No can do." they all watched as he dragged her away. She threw the first punch so they were not inclined to interfere on her behalf.

She attempted pulling away but his grip was firm. At this point, they were a distance away from the bar so she forcefully loosened his grip, hitting his hair and removing his hair band in the process.

“I said let go. huhn? Hansha?” his lush, bushy hair fell to the front, covering his brown colored eyes. He didn’t even bother raising it up.

“You're just as awful as the last time I met you. You weren't planning on scamming me out of a drink, were you? if you were then you did a terrible job too.” he had a nasty grin on. One couldn’t safely assess his intentions.

“I'm not a loser like you that ends up making ridiculous assumptions.”

“Says you?” he shook his head, although his facial expression couldn’t be seen, his voice was more than enough.

“Emphasis on ridiculous, you dumbass.”

“You nearly got us kicked out, you retard.”

“Huh?” she covered the distance and moved even closer to him, pinning him to the wall.

“Just because you were top of the class doesn't mean you get to call me a retard, you pervert. who dragged me all the way out like I was owing some fucking money.”

“Wait until you realize men don't like vulgar women.”

“You asking for a beating?”

“I know the alcohol is kicking in full force but don't you think you're pushing things a little? You’re the least threatening person I know.”

“Hah, that settles it. square up fuck face.” with his back to the wall, he really had no where to go.

“You look like you've always wanted to do this.”

“You might be right about that.”

“I'm a true advocate for gender equality but then who knows. The last time this happened, we all know what you ended up doing instead.”

“That’s a nice way to put it. I’m sure putting it in detail would be embarrassing for you, fucker.”

“Haha like you aren’t embarrassed right now.”

“You're leaving here with half your balls, I promise you.”

“Not even going to catch up first, Megumi?”

“Why do you think I'm doing this? It’s been 20 odd years. Let's catch up, Hansha.”

“This is my first time seeing two in the same place. Talk about luck.”

“Hey there. You two do understand there’s a camera out back watching you right?” Aiko pointed to the camera hidden in the corner.In all fairness, it was really hard to spot at night.

“Who are these guys?” he turned to her.

“You literally took a class on deescalation yesterday.” he covered his ears.

“My bag.” she stared blankly.

“Huh?”

“My bag!!! Where's my bag, dumbass?”

“I don't know? it's probably inside. Why the haste?”

“Can't you feel it? This guy is dangerous. Shit.Got a piece of paper on you?”

“ Umm.” he looks around.

“Hurry, rich boy.”

“Got a card. Does that count?”

“Of course it does.”

“We're not here to fight you.”

“As if I'd believe that.” she drew mist .

“Hmm.” she then made a pill made of sleeping gas and flung it their way.

she ran, covering her nose. the clueless dude fell to the ground. his legs quivery as he too, slowly sensed the aura emanating in front of him.

“That bitch.”

“Don’t be like that. You two were at each others neck just now. Of course she was going to abandon you.”

“I'm going after her.” she stretched her arms and brought out her phone.

“You sure? I bet this dude will be weaker.”

“I don't care.”

“You’re still thinking about that? Haha, fine. Do your thing.”

She vanished instantly.

“ I'll take care of you. Have a feeling we will get along.” he smiled.

“What do you want?”

“Quick one. Do you know you're dead?”

“So what If I am? So far, I haven’t harmed aanyone.”

“Is that so? Maybe you're right but you see.” he clenched his fists. “The dead need to stay dead.”

“He's not chasing? Phew I'm in the clear.”

“Hi.” she teleported her to a park close by,with the lamp lights beaming down on them.

“I'm Takano. Care for a nice chat?”