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Chapter Text

The hustle and bustle of graduation season gradually faded, and Kamiyama Rikuo stood at a new starting point in his life, feeling an unprecedented sense of confusion. He looked at the middle school graduation certificate in his hand; the words on it seemed to have lost their meaning, leaving only a blank space. This was already his second year in this world. When he searched for Tsukinomori Girls' Academy and Haneoka, and scrolling on his phone, he knew he had come to the Bandori world and could meet his favorite band girls.

Unfortunately, not long after, his single-parent father passed away. He only remembered how miserable he looked when he left, and he didn't know what his father did. But sadly, he didn't have a younger sister, nor a car, nor a house. When his father passed away, he only left behind a fountain pen and left in a hurry, as if an NPC had completed his mission.

As the setting sun dyed the rented room amber, Rikuo found his father's old fountain pen in the storage cabinet. A spade emblem on the metal surface flashed with a faint blue light. When he subconsciously twisted the cap, the entire row of storage cabinets suddenly vibrated and roared.

"The storage cabinet... is bleeding?"

Rikuo asked, puzzled.

Immediately after, the storage cabinet exploded. Yes, literally exploded.

"Holy crap, this apartment is rented!"

But there was no time for Rikuo to hesitate about the apartment.

"Anyway, I'll run away first. Then I'll tell the landlord that his rented gas leaked and almost blew me to death, and demand compensation from him."

Rikuo showed a triumphant expression.

At the same time.

Sakiko was on her way home, looking at the envelope in her hand.

"Did I get fired again? This convenience store job was quite easy, and it was close to the customer service company. They said customers were afraid to enter the store because my face made them think I wanted to become a god, which I totally don't understand. Anyway, the salary isn't small. Sigh, I wonder if that bastard father will steal it again to buy alcohol."

Sakiko, the god of the new world, was still complaining while looking at her salary envelope, completely oblivious to the abnormality happening around her.

"Look out!"

Rikuo saw the figure at his doorstep still in a daze, so he pushed her away. Unfortunately, he himself was caught in the explosion.

"You bastard landlord!"

Before passing out, the last thing Rikuo thought of was how to extort money from the landlord, truly worthy of being an excellent youth of the 21st century.

And Sakiko only reacted at this moment.

"Why did a cheap rented house explode? Is the wiring so old? I should find another place to rent if I get the chance."

Sakiko's first thought was surprisingly about her wallet.

"No, are you okay?"

Sakiko helped Rikuo, who had fallen beside her, up.

"He seems to be the neighbor from next door. I remember his name is Kamiyama Rikuo. Anyway, I should take him to the hospital first. Instead of this money being wasted by that bastard father, it's better to help such a kind young man."

Sakiko thought about how the young man chose to help her first, even knowing there was an explosion behind him, and resolutely decided to let her father drink a few less times. Poor Sakiko's father was still sleeping in the nearby ruins at this time.

The next day, hospital.

Rikuo opened his eyes and saw a blue octopus sitting by the bed, looking at him.

"What, so I'm already dead? I'm seeing an angel."

Sakiko pressed the nurse call button with a slight smile, and the nurse appeared with refresh-like speed.

"Nurse-san, my friend seems to have not only injured his body but also has some mental issues. Could you please check him again?"

Sakiko finally saw her father lying in the ruins and had no choice but to ask her grandfather for help. Bad news: Sakiko was forced to bow her head to her grandfather again; good news: Sakiko's resignation salary was saved. (Sakiko's dad, this month's alcohol is secured. Want a drink?)

Rikuo finally became serious at this moment, looking at the band girl he thought about day and night.

'Oh, right, Sakiko seems to live next door to me. The person I pushed away during the explosion was actually Sakiko-sensei, hehe. No, I need to explain first.'

"Nurse-san, I'm fine. I was just a little dazed when I woke up. I'll be fine after I calm down."

The nurse looked at Sakiko, then at Rikuo, bowed, and left the ward.

"Call me again if there's any problem, Togawa-san."

"Are you awake now? Can you tell me what exactly happened, Kamiyama-san, who lives next door?"

Sakiko looked at our protagonist, Rikuo, with a smile like a white moonlight, but Rikuo was not such an easy-to-fall-in-love-with virgin.

"Togawa-san, I was cooking at home just now. As soon as I turned on the gas, I saw a flash of fire. At that time, I thought I saw God... No, at that time, I felt it was dangerous and quickly ran out of the room. When I ran out, I saw a figure in a daze, which must have been Togawa-san. At that time, I didn't have time to react and just pushed Togawa-san away. I hope Togawa-san doesn't mind. Then I fainted, and my memory ends there."

Rikuo hid the fact that the fountain pen exploded in the storage cabinet, as no one would believe him if he told them. He might even be suspected of developing illegal explosives at home. In short, the source of everything was a gas leak.

'This way, with a second witness, it will be easier to claim compensation from the landlord.'

Rikuo showed a triumphant expression.

"Is that so? Then I understand. Thank you for your help, Kamiyama-san."

Sakiko didn't have any doubts after hearing Rikuo's explanation, as she had the same idea initially. A young man whose father passed away early, living alone for a year. She, of course, knew about experiences similar to his. Although they coincidentally never worked together, she would still watch the young man next door, just like her, working part-time and going to school early in the morning and returning late at night. Coincidentally, the two had no intersection; otherwise, they might have become friends long ago.

"You're welcome, Togawa-san."

At this moment, Rikuo noticed that he seemed to be holding something in his hand. He turned his head and saw it was the fountain pen his father had left him.

'What exactly is going on with this thing? Why did it explode? I need to study it carefully. This world doesn't seem to be just about band girls.'

Rikuo thought. At this moment, his mind suddenly fluctuated.

'Oh no, it can't be that the resonance exploded the storage cabinet and is now loading me.'

Rikuo only felt a sharp pain in his hand, and then an ace of spades card appeared under the fountain pen, with a long-horned beetle engraved on it.

Chapter Text

'The Ace of Spades of Kamen Rider Blade? Is that the card Blade transforms with? The spade on this fountain pen wasn't because the old man liked playing poker after all. Could it be Kamen Rider Blade's transformation device? Was Dad secretly a Kamen Rider all this time without me knowing?'

Kamiyama Rikuo couldn't help but be shocked.

'I've lived here for two years, and you're telling me this is a world with Kamen Rider? What are they fighting against then? I haven't seen any Kaijin in this world. Speaking of which, Dad looked very emaciated when he passed away. Could it be that the rider system caused his body to become fragile?'

Rikuo couldn't help but complain.

'Speaking of which, Kamen Rider Blade is a rider with a proper work unit system, right? I'm a teenager who still has to earn money for school, and I don't have the salary support from Blade's work. I can't just not eat beef, can I?'

Thinking of this, Rikuo felt even more bitter. His expression was twisted and cracked like a Pompeii fresco after a heavy rain.

"Are you alright? Is your wound hurting again, or are there any after-effects?"

When Sakiko saw his expression, her initial reaction was to struggle to maintain composure, but Sakiko's many years of etiquette training weren't for nothing. She then began to inquire about Rikuo's physical condition.

"My body is fine, I'm just thinking about the apartment, and then about my wallet. My heart is starting to ache."

Rikuo only said half of it, the half about his wallet making his heart ache.

'I still need to think about where to live next.'

Thinking this, Rikuo's expression became even more pained and twisted.

"You don't need to worry about that. I've already discussed it with the landlord (Landlord: Yes, the gas leak was my doing. I voluntarily compensate for treatment and financial losses). He will take responsibility, after all, such a big safety hazard, even in such a cheap apartment, shouldn't be allowed, desuwa. You should rest well and not worry about these things, desuwa."

Sakiko spoke more and more excitedly, even accidentally revealing her young lady's verbal tic. But Sakiko herself didn't notice this, only showing a serious and earnest expression.

However, there was no seriousness in that expression; only a pure, warm glow like moonlight. At this moment, Rikuo felt as if he had returned to Crychic (Soyo: LOL, as if Crychic had you in it). Sakiko herself should be like this.

'If I could marry Sakiko-sensei, I'd be willing even if it meant driving luxury cars and living in a villa.'

Rikuo thought this as he looked at the serious yet cute Sakiko.

"Then I thank Togawa-san. There's an old saying: 'Customers are the parents of merchants.' If you don't abandon me, I'm willing to acknowledge you as my godparent."

Rikuo made a timely joke. Sakiko was also amused, and her serious, earnest expression instantly vanished from her face.

"So Kamiyama-san is such an interesting person, I thought..."

Sakiko said with a smile, but stopped halfway through her sentence.

"Togawa-san means that given my father and economic circumstances, I might be a rational but reclusive person. But life is already so difficult; if you make your own mood even worse, wouldn't life be even more meaningless? In short, instead of living with deep bitterness, it's better to think about how to live happily. Smiley, smiley."

Rikuo had watched MyGO, so he knew the kind of pressure Sakiko was bearing alone. So he wanted to offer some advice in his own way.

'Perhaps this way, Sakiko's knot in her heart can be untied, and she can reconcile with everyone in Crychic? Just kidding, they all say Sakiko-sensei's only hard part is her mouth.'

"That's true, Kamiyama-san. Perhaps your words can bring me great inspiration."

Sakiko returned a smile, thinking that perhaps she could open up a little, and if she were a little less proud, perhaps everyone wouldn't... Sakiko is just that kind of person. Her attitude towards strangers is often more friendly and easygoing than towards those close to her. This might make people feel a bit strange, but it is part of her personality.

However, we cannot make groundless accusations or slanders against her simply because of this characteristic. Everyone has their unique personality and way of behaving, and we should view others with tolerance and understanding.

Moreover, it is inappropriate to compare Sakiko to the great kami. Kami is an existence with special meaning and influence, and we should treat it with reverence, not casually tease or slander it.

Therefore, let us discard prejudice and misunderstanding, and evaluate people like Sakiko with an objective and rational attitude, while also respecting those things we should revere.

"If I have been of help to Togawa-san, then it is my honor."

Just then, a cucumber spirit approached and knocked on the ward door.

"Saki, school."

Truly Wakaba Mutsumi, her casual opening was a three-character masterpiece.

"Then Kamiyama-san, you rest first, we'll be leaving now."

Sakiko watched Rikuo wake up normally and felt relieved. Today was the opening ceremony, and as the top student in her grade, Sakiko naturally had to give a speech. Sakiko could not go against the school's wishes in this regard for the sake of Haneoka's high scholarship. Although, if Rikuo hadn't woken up, Sakiko might have refused earlier.

"Okay, Togawa-san. Please help me ask for leave from school. If I remember correctly, Togawa-san is also from Haneoka High School, right?"

Rikuo, of course, knew Sakiko was from Haneoka, having watched MyGO. So, as an injured person with only one page in his household register and a destroyed phone, he could only trouble Sakiko to help him ask for leave.

"Okay, Kamiyama-san."

It was already late, so Sakiko didn't say much more and pulled Mutsumi at the door away. What did Mutsumi understand? She just followed Sakiko blankly, even though Mutsumi didn't attend Haneoka (and Tsukinomori prohibits pick-ups and drop-offs). Poor Mutsumi still had to take the train by herself to Tsukinomori.

"Mutsumi, hurry up, we're going to be late. Oh, by the way, Mutsumi, you go take the train by yourself first. You don't need to come with me to Haneoka; you'll be late too, won't you?"

Yes, Sakiko does care about Mutsumi. Do you have a Sakiko like that?

Just then, a bitter woman (not actually a bitter woman) with brown hair walked by, clutching her small bag (she was really just passing by).

"Is that Saki-chan? Why is Saki-chan coming out of the hospital, and Mutsumi-chan is there too. Could it be that something unexpected happened? It wouldn't be related to Crychic's disbandment, would it?"

Tsukinomori Female Agent Number One, Nagasaki Soyo, has arrived.

Chapter Text

'It seemed like Saki-chan just came out of this hospital. Did someone she knows get hurt?'

The divorced wealthy woman thought. As everyone knows, Soyo is an excellent Tsukinomori Agent, and as soon as she considered the possibility, she was ready for her mission. Ms. Nagasaki Soyo then put aside her intention of rushing to school (School? That, it's no longer needed.) and walked directly towards the hospital.

Arriving at the hospital reception, Soyo had already devised a perfect infiltration plan. She put on her signature young lady's smile and activated her sweet voice.

"Good day, Nurse-neesan. Could you help me look up the reserved room number for Togawa Sakiko? You see, I'm her friend. She forgot something, but she has an urgent matter at school, so she could only ask me to help retrieve it. I have her email address for verification."

As expected of Tsukinomori's top agent, Soyo, she effortlessly achieved what we couldn't! First, she used "Good day" to establish her identity as a young lady, enhancing credibility. Then, she called the front desk part-time nurse "Nurse-neesan" to build rapport. Before the other party could show any suspicion, she provided an explanation and potential identity verification.

The nurse didn't suspect much. Seeing such a cute, young lady-like girl, and after verifying the email address, she told Soyo the room number. Such is the convenience of a beautiful girl.

After learning the room number, Soyo offered a brief thanks and headed to the ward, pondering how to deal with anyone she might encounter there.

Meanwhile, on the other side.

Kamiyama Rikuo was in his hospital bed contemplating his life.

'Sakiko-sensei has started school, so I need to think about what comes next. I still need to figure out how to rent a place, and there's this inexplicable rider system that just appeared. Once my body recovers, I need to test if I can observe the anomalies of this world. I should go back home and look for any other missed clues, even though the house is already a mess. Haha.'

Rikuo silently made up his mind. Although he had obtained the inexplicable rider system, life still had to go on.

At this moment, there was a knock on the ward door.

"Hello, I'm Sakiko's classmate. Saki-chan forgot something when she went to school and asked me to bring it for her. Is it convenient to open the door?"

It was the same approach, first dispelling doubts. Nagasaki Soyo had been observing outside the ward for a while and saw that a male was lying on the bed inside. The young girl's heart had already experienced countless supernova explosions.

'It's an unfamiliar young man. Could it be that Saki-chan's leaving the band was all because of him? Why is Saki-chan in this young man's ward? What is his relationship with Saki-chan?'

"Come in. Did Togawa-san forget something? I don't see anything around here."

Rikuo didn't think much and let Soyo into the ward. But when he saw that long coffee-colored hair, his mind began a mental storm. With that feature, he already guessed who it was: MyGO's biggest villain, the highest mountain, Nagasaki Soyo.

'Holy crap! How did Soyo get here? It's been a month since Crychic disbanded, right? No wonder the voice I just heard was so forced. I was wondering who Sakiko-sensei was still in contact with besides Mutsumi.'

Rikuo's heart was boiling, but his expression remained stable. Looking at Soyo's face, he began to think about how to respond.

'Speaking of which, it's been two years since I came to this world, and this is the first time I've seen Soyo. As expected of a beautiful 2D girl, there really is a faint lavender scent. No, what are you thinking, you pervert? Soyo definitely wasn't invited by Sakiko. Given the current situation, she probably passed by, saw Sakiko, and wanted to investigate? As expected of a Tsukinomori Agent, her initiative is truly strong.'

"Maybe Saki-chan remembered wrong? May I ask what your relationship is with Saki-chan? Sakiko and I are very close friends, but I've never seen you before. Are you Saki-chan's older brother?"

Soyo saw that the young man wasn't impulsive and chose to use a rhetorical question to get information. After all, baseless suspicion of others is disrespectful. However, Soyo knew that Sakiko had no brothers. This was the young girl's little trick; if the other party took up this line of conversation, it would confirm the suspicious nature of their identity.

"No, I'm just Togawa-san's friend. Something happened at home by chance, and Togawa-san, who was passing by, helped me."

Rikuo only said half of it. After all, if he said he was a neighbor, given the location of Sakiko's previous villa, how could there be neighbors? Although Soyo didn't know Sakiko's former address now, according to the plot development, Mutsumi would be used as a messenger. Soyo might then become suspicious of Sakiko's situation. In short, the more he said, the more mistakes he would make, and he needed to protect Sakiko's last bit of pride.

Soyo didn't doubt this, as Sakiko was indeed such a gentle person. However, she did have questions about the 'passing by' part.

'Why would Saki-chan pass by his house? Looking at this young man, he doesn't seem to come from a particularly good family. And how would Saki-chan pass by? Moreover, his parents aren't with him, yet Saki-chan is so concerned about him. It's even more suspicious.'

Poor Rikuo thought he was on the second level, but he didn't expect Soyo to already be in the stratosphere. He could never have imagined that Soyo would connect him, a complete stranger, with Sakiko-sensei.

"Since I didn't find the item, I'll take my leave now. Please rest well, goodbye."

Soyo knew she couldn't stay long, to prevent any unforeseen circumstances.

"Okay, you go ahead."

Rikuo responded with a smile, trying to appear harmless.

But Soyo wasn't thinking that way at all.

'The rest will have to be investigated slowly. It seems this young man is inextricably linked to Crychic's disbandment. (Rikuo: Yes, I'm the one who disbanded Crychic)'

After speaking, Soyo rushed to school. After all, her perfect young lady persona at school also needed to be maintained.

'I perfectly avoided the Tsukinomori Agent's interrogation. I guess Nagasaki Soyo in this MyGO world isn't that scary after all. Why does everyone describe her as an 16-year-old bitter woman?'

Rikuo expressed doubt about other fan creations he had seen. How could such a pure, beautiful girl like Soyo be a divorced wealthy woman?

'Anyway, no one's here now. First, let's think about how to test the cards after I'm discharged. Tokyo is full of surveillance everywhere, so I can't be careless. Since I don't understand the surveillance situation now, I'll go to the slums of Osaka to try it out. There's basically no surveillance there. I feel like my body is recovering faster, so I should be able to get discharged by the afternoon. Maybe Kamen Rider has a way to make money, so I won't have to work multiple part-time jobs.'

Rikuo finalized his plan in his heart: get discharged in the afternoon and go to Osaka to try out the rider system. When he first arrived in this world, Rikuo also wanted to be a copywriter, but he was just an ordinary teenager. How could he remember songs and novels completely? At most, he could only remember some plots and melodies, and there was no system to help him restore them.

'Anyway, everything depends on the afternoon's situation. I also need to go back and see if anything is left in the ruins.'

Chapter Text

That evening, Kamiyama Rikuo recovered enough to be discharged from the hospital, only to find that all his treatment costs had been paid.

“Sakiko-sensei must have used the family’s influence, right? She probably wasn’t confident she could resolve such a big issue on her own, so she was forced to concede and now owes a significant favor.”

Rikuo didn’t dwell on it too much; after all, there was nothing he could do at the moment.

“First, I’ll check if there’s anything unusual at the apartment, then take the train to Osaka and test the effects of this pen and card.”

Rikuo got up and walked towards the apartment.

Due to the considerable distance between the apartment and the hospital, and having lost his phone and wallet in the explosion, Rikuo unknowingly walked until 8 PM.

“Is the hospital really that far from the apartment? The street is so quiet, and there are no pedestrians walking around. It’s a huge difference from near the academy… Hey, there’s a light under the vending machine ahead.

I’ve been walking for ages; maybe I can find a coin to buy a bottle of water.”

As Rikuo squatted in front of the vending machine, searching for a coin, as if in response to his call, someone (questionable) arrived.

From behind, he heard the sticky sound of dragging leather shoes.

Turning his head, Rikuo saw a ghostly man in a wrinkled suit, his tie like a noose digging into the decaying flesh of his neck, holding a projector remote control emitting a green light.

“Young man… do you want to experience true blessings…?”

Excel spreadsheets rolled in the ghost’s eye sockets, and with every word he spoke, he exhaled black mist that smelled of coffee grounds.

He pressed the remote control, and the entire street suddenly twisted into a conference room, with a blood-red “Voluntary Overtime Agreement” appearing on the projection screen.

“Holy crap, dude, why haven’t I seen a ghost in two years here? I just got the rider system and now I’m seeing a ghost.

Seriously, what the hell.”

Rikuo suppressed the urge to complain—suppressed it, my foot!

Who could suppress this?

“This isn’t the time to complain.

Let’s try the rider system.

This is like being in another dimension, so surveillance probably won’t work, right?

Probably.”

Rikuo pulled out the pen and ace of spades, and then, there was no “then.”

“Sweet, I haven’t even tested how to transform yet.

Whatever, I’ll try every pose first.”

Rikuo placed the pen against his waist like a belt, trying to find a place to insert the card.

But it was just a pen; how could it accept a card?

“Never mind, anyway, Henshin.”

The ghost wasn’t idle either; his tie extended endlessly, covered with “Read, Not Replied” Link messages.

Rikuo struck a pose as if to perform a flying kick.

“Sa! Ki! Ko!”

The Corporate Slave Ghost was momentarily stunned by the impressive aura of the young man opposite him.

Rikuo seized this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, ready to rebuild the glory of LJL (League of Legends Japan League)… No, he immediately rushed towards the office door.

“Damn it! It’s not that easy to transform after all.

I need to find a place to hide first.”

Rikuo opened the office door and hid in a distant cubicle.

The ghost followed closely, his twisted face even more hideous with anger.

“How is there still someone here? Oji-san, how long have you been trapped here?”

Rikuo entered the cubicle and saw a gaunt uncle.

At first glance, he might have once been quite refined, but now he had a decadent look on his face.

“Is there still someone trapped here? And a child at that.

Such things should be left to useless uncles like me.

Why does the world have to make things difficult for this half-grown child?”

The uncle looked at the young man in front of him, who was about the same age as his 16-year-old daughter, Sakiko.

He had been trapped here for two hours, and in that time, he had thought a lot.

He couldn't help but sigh; if he, who had been cast out by the Togawa Family, were to die, perhaps Sakiko would be freed.

But this young man’s life had just begun.

Togawa Kiyotsugu began to reflect on his life.

Because of his ‘sincere’ personality, he and his childhood sweetheart, Togawa Mizuho, secretly pledged their lives to each other.

Because of his ‘sincere’ and diligent personality, he gradually gained the approval of his father-in-law, married into a faction of the Togawa Family, and had a cute and innocent daughter.

Although he couldn't enter the family's core, he never had the desire to join it.

But how can life be smooth sailing? Good times didn't last, and his wife passed away early.

At that time, he thought that even though Togawa Mizuho was gone, he would work even harder.

Although his influence would surely be further reduced by the family due to Mizuho's death, he would strive to give Sakiko a better life, all to uphold the 'sincere' impression his wife had of him.

However, it was this very 'sincerity' that brought him great suffering, and even more so, harmed his beloved daughter, Sakiko.

When he accidentally saw his father-in-law's illegitimate child, Misumi Hatsune, for the sake of that sincerity in his heart, he resolutely launched a charge against the consortium in defiance.

But it was also because of this overconfident sincerity that he was expelled from the family.

At this point, he began to question whether this 'sincerity' still held any meaning.

So he abandoned sincerity, choosing to conceal everything and feign decadence, hoping Sakiko would give up on him and return to the family.

But Sakiko inherited his stubbornness.

She worked part-time, transferred schools, an 16-year-old child bearing the burden of two people's lives, without a single word of complaint.

Thus, he once again fell into confusion; was sincerity truly meaningless?

“Perhaps, I won’t have the chance to find the answer.”

“Young man, please help me take this passbook out and find a girl named Togawa Sakiko and give it to her.

The password is her birthday.”

Togawa Kiyotsugu instructed clearly.

“But…”

Rikuo was about to reply.

“I’ve lived my life to this point, and I don’t regret it.

Your life is still long.

I see that this ghost seems to only be able to use its abilities in the conference room.

I’ve also checked the elevator in this fictional building; we’re on the 4th floor.

I will hold him off, you climb down the stairs.

You must take the stairs; I suspect the elevator is abnormal.”

Kiyotsugu interrupted him and continued to instruct.

“Remember to find Sakiko and tell her that she’s worked hard this past month.”

After saying that, Kiyotsugu walked out of the cubicle.

At this moment, the decadence on his face was swept away, revealing only the back of a father.

“So he’s Sakiko’s father? I thought he was an irredeemable drunkard.

It seems judging people solely by first impressions isn’t reliable.”

Rikuo sighed in his heart, gripping the pen and card that had remained motionless just now.

“As a provisional rider, I don’t even have the ability to protect others, and I still need others to step forward?

Are you kidding me?”

“If I truly have the qualifications to be a rider, even if I don’t have a single card, I should still be able to seal you!”

After saying that, Rikuo also walked out.

Chapter Text

“I will fight fate, and I will win for you to see!”

Although Kamiyama Rikuo was spouting chuunibyo Kamen Rider lines, he didn't feel the slightest bit of embarrassment, because he could feel the power his senior brought him through these words.

[Ace of spades synchronization rate 100%.]

Just then, the fountain pen also activated, emitting a cold electronic sound. The belt disassembled from the middle, transforming into the Blay buckle. Without hesitation, Rikuo attached the Blay buckle to his waist, and cards gushed out like a spring, flying towards both sides of his waist and connecting to his lower back.

Rikuo loaded the Rouse Card [Change Beetle (ace of spades)] into the Blay buckle.

“Henshin!”

[Turn up.]

A cold mechanical sound emanated, and a human-sized card light screen appeared in front of Rikuo. This light screen happened to be the entrance to the cubicle.

Togawa Kiyotsugu, standing nearby, hadn't yet recovered from seeing this scene.

“What is this?”

“Oji-san, you’re too old to be fighting. Leave it to us young people. Although it’s a bit embarrassing, I still want to say, a hero cannot flee in the face of battle!”

After speaking, Rikuo rushed towards the door, opening the cubicle door, and the light screen twisted as he passed through it. Stepping out of the light screen, he was no longer just Kamiyama Rikuo; he was also Kamen Rider Blade.

The Corporate Slave Ghost looked at the blue-silver knight walking towards him and actually felt an urge to flee.

“Blade, impossible, isn't Blade already dead?”

Although the Corporate Slave Ghost was questioning, he didn't stop his movements; his infinitely extending tie was attacking Blade. Anything touched by the tie transformed into invitation letters, each bearing the words [Invalid Meeting Invitation].

“Is it still a mechanism kill? Didn't he say abilities couldn't be used in the meeting room? It seems Togawa-jisan's information is incomplete.”

Of course, this attack couldn't threaten Blade. With a jumping power of 33m, Blade dodged the attack with a sidestep.

“Anyway, for Togawa-jisan’s safety, let’s first move the battlefield.”

Blade summoned the Blay Rouzer from his belt.

“Although there are no cards, having a weapon is better than having none.”

Blade leaped, dodging the tie’s horizontal sweep, and landed next to the ghost. Unsure if the Blay Rouzer could bypass the tie’s transformation rules, he didn't rush to attack the tie with it. He performed a three-hit combo, but the ghost was indeed a ghost, completely intangible.

“How do I fight this? Is the beginner monster this hard?”

Blade, finding his attacks ineffective, no longer lingered in battle and chose to enter the cubicle first to draw the ghost away. The ghost followed closely, seemingly driven mad by Blade's appearance.

“Corporate slave, corporate slave, what are corporate slaves most afraid of? Think, quickly.”

Blade thought of a strategy while fleeing.

“The old saying goes, within three steps, there must be an antidote. The Corporate Slave Ghost’s mental field manifests as a company, and as a corporate slave, what he fears most should also be the company.”

Around the corner, Blade saw a copier.

“I’ve got it.”

Blade ran to the computer at his speed of 5.7 seconds per hundred meters, opened a WPS document, typed in [Voluntary Pay Cut Application,] and immediately started the copier.

“I'm not sure what corporate slaves fear most, but they definitely fear pay cuts, especially voluntary pay cuts.”

Blade aimed the copier at the ghost and began printing. The ghost clutched his head, beginning to groan in pain.

“Boss, don’t fire me! I’ll voluntarily take a pay cut, work overtime, stay on, go on business trips, and work shifts!”

Seeing the effect, Blade continued to print.

“You just damaged the office environment. According to company policy, you must pay 10 times the compensation. Please complete payment before the end of the workday.”

After speaking, Blade picked up the Blay Rouzer and began a combination massage on the ghost. At this point, the ghost had become semi-materialized, allowing the Blay Rouzer to deliver effective attacks. The ghost's color began to gradually fade.

“Continue to increase power. Entering and exiting the office at will during a meeting will be treated as a major violation. Leaving your post for no personal reason during normal company working hours at 8 o’clock will be treated as absenteeism.”

Blade racked his brain, launching a mental attack.

“Your remaining annual leave days are 0, and your five social insurances and one housing fund policy are terminated.”

Blade began to prepare his final attack.

“And the most important point is that you have no labor contract.”

In the final leaping strike, the Corporate Slave Ghost ended his tragic ghostly life. As he died, he exploded into a [Cervical Spondylosis Diagnosis,] a [Mental Damage Compensation Calculation Sheet,] and an [Application for Labor Arbitration.]

“So I… was free all along…”

In the silence, only the corporate slave’s last sigh remained.

“Is the pressure on Japanese corporate slaves really that terrifying?”

Rikuo sighed in his heart.

“Oh, right, sealing. How do I seal this?”

Rikuo had no other way. To prevent any residue of the ghost, he used the Blay Rouzer to gather the three documents, took out a blank card from the Blay buckle, and threw it at the materials. The materials twisted, transforming into the blank card, on which appeared jack of spades - Fusion Eagle… “Why is a corporate slave a eagle card? I suspect you’re implying something. He’s a corporate slave, he can’t fly, and the ability he just displayed has nothing to do with flight.”

Rikuo was full of complaints in his heart, holding this jack of spades in confusion.

“Is it… over?”

Sakiko’s father, Togawa Kiyotsugu, walked out of an adjacent cubicle, looking at the knight the young man had transformed into.

“It seems I, an old man, can live a few more years. This time, I can’t let Sakiko down.”

From the passbook Sakiko’s father had just taken out, it was clear that Togawa Kiyotsugu was actually working, and perhaps all the money he had taken from Sakiko was also in the passbook. He just chose to return early to pretend to be decadent. Perhaps this father wanted to wait until Sakiko, still stubborn but unable to cope, before revealing the truth.

The mental world gradually collapsed, and Rikuo also dispelled his Blade transformation.

“Well then, I must take my leave, Togawa-jisan. Keep your passbook safe. I hope when I see you in reality, you will have made peace with yourself.”

Rikuo spoke Togawa Kiyotsugu’s surname, indicating that he knew him.

“Even with family, you need to communicate more. A girl’s youth is only a few years; perhaps she’ll soon become a boring adult. Why spend it in bitterness?”

Rikuo began his least favorite activity, lecturing, but at this moment, perhaps he could also understand the feelings of those who liked to lecture.

“Anyway, life has only just begun. If you don’t die, keep moving forward.”

“Oh, and remember to keep my Kamen Rider identity a secret. I’m quite afraid of trouble.”

Rikuo spoke rapidly, making his final farewell before the world collapsed.

“Oh, young man, I haven’t asked your name yet. How do you know me?”

“Really, Oji-san, you don’t even know me? I’ve lived next door to you for a while. Alright, my name is Kamiyama Rikuo, and now you can also call me Kamen Rider Blade.”

Chapter Text

Not long after, Kamiyama Rikuo returned to the real world. Rikuo looked at Togawa Kiyotsugu beside him and fell silent.

'Damn it! I just spouted a bunch of chuunibyou lines for ages! You're telling me we all get teleported to a unified location?!'

Rikuo covered his face, feeling a wave of embarrassment.

'However, what's confirmed is that while Anomalies like ghosts can teleport to different spaces, there's a range limit. So, if I encounter an Anomaly in the future, it might reduce the trouble of searching. Perhaps this type could be called an evil-aligned earthbound spirit? I can first suspect it's at the place where the resentment was strongest during their life, or where they passed away. But I guess it still needs to be classified and analyzed.'

Rikuo didn't forget to analyze the logic of ghost existence, as he might frequently encounter similar situations in the future.

'Speaking of which, Anomalies like ghosts should arise from obsessions during life. Perhaps this could lead to benefits in crime investigation? If a ghost exists at the last place they were alive, there will definitely be clues. In any case, I need to wait until tomorrow. Rushing to prove it today without official reporting would likely cause a lot of trouble.'

Rikuo began to further consider the potential impact of ghost existence on him.

'Maybe in the future, I can switch to this kind of part-time job, or perhaps exorcism would be good too.'

"Kamiyama-san, right? Thank you so much just now."

Togawa Kiyotsugu saw Rikuo's changing expression and understood the young man's embarrassment, so he chose to change the subject.

"Yes, Togawa-jisan, I'm Kamiyama Rikuo, your next-door neighbor. I'm also Togawa-san's friend. I was supposed to go to the same school today, but unfortunately, due to the apartment explosion this morning, I haven't even been able to show my face at school yet."

Rikuo awkwardly scratched his head. Although his previous impression of Togawa Kiyotsugu wasn't great, after what felt like a life-or-death interaction, he still felt embarrassed about the chuunibyou lines he'd uttered in front of an elder.

'What if the old man tells Sakiko about my chuunibyou history? Will Sakiko think I'm a chuunibyou guy?'

Kiyotsugu didn't think that way at all. Although he didn't recognize the young man immediately, as neighbors for a while, he had gradually come to know the young man next door.

'To lose his father so young, and his mother to have been missing since he was a child, and then to have to drift alone in society. No wonder. How could such a young man not become friends with Sakiko? And he also bears such a mission... right? As he just said, “I will fight destiny and win for you to see!”. Such a spirited young man is very suitable to be friends with Sakiko.'

"So, Kamiyama-san, your apartment doesn't exist anymore, right? What made you think of walking in this direction?"

Sakiko's father voiced his question. After all, Sakiko had already arranged a new apartment for them. This time, it was a residential apartment under the Togawa Family, so there would definitely be no risk of it aging and falling apart. His luggage in the ruins also seemed to have been sorted by a random moving company. In Japan, minors (Japan's age of majority is 20, don't kill me for this review) are not allowed out late at night.

"It's only 8 o'clock now," Rikuo said, then rummaged through his pockets.

'Oh right, no phone.'

"It's 11:30 now, Kamiyama-san."

Kiyotsugu took out his phone and showed it to Rikuo.

"Oh, it's only 11 o'clock, what the heck? It's 11:30? Didn't I leave at 2 PM?"

Meanwhile, the on-duty nurse:

"Did the clock in this ward run out of batteries today? Never mind, anyway, only one young person stayed in this ward today. Who doesn't have a phone these days?"

..."You mean, you woke up in the afternoon, looked at the hospital clock, and thought it was 2 PM? So you rushed to the old apartment late at night to look for lost items?"

Kiyotsugu listened to Rikuo's explanation... (sweating emoji).

'Are there still young people without phones these days? And wouldn't he have seen the time along the way? Didn't he notice the second hand wasn't moving?'

Seeing Kiyotsugu's expression, Rikuo felt his mental state was perfectly splendid. Yesterday his home exploded, this morning he almost exploded with Soyo, at noon he exploded with the clock, tonight he almost worked overtime for a lifetime with a corporate slave, and now he has to be suspected of mental instability by the uncle next door.

"But my phone really exploded, I didn't notice the second hand, and I was deep in thought the whole way here. Maybe it's just a beautiful coincidence."

Kiyotsugu sighed softly. After all, without the young man, Sakiko might truly end up alone, and perhaps even an aerial flight of Sakiko would play out.

Kiyotsugu shook his head, dispelling those improper fantasies.

'This young man is probably under too much stress; it's normal for him to have some mental issues. Speaking of what he just said... maybe it's better if he isn't too spirited? I should talk to Sakiko and ask her to understand this young man.'

Poor Rikuo, he didn't realize he had already leveled up from a chuunibyou guy to a mental patient.

"Kamiyama-san, in that case, I'll go with you. With an adult accompanying you, there won't be any misunderstandings. After all, Kamiyama-san is my lifesaver, and I can still be of some help with this small favor."

Rikuo didn't want to talk anymore, he just nodded in silent agreement.

Kiyotsugu then followed Rikuo towards the old apartment. Along the way, they encountered several patrolling police officers, who merely asked a few questions before leaving. Kiyotsugu had indeed helped Rikuo quite a bit.

'If it weren't for Togawa-jisan, not only would I be invited for katsudon, but given my current situation, I'd probably be considered a runaway. And without a phone and no adults at home, I'd be sent back home the next day and stared at with sympathetic glances for quite some time. Moreover, it seems Sakiko-sensei left in a hurry this morning and didn't even inform me that she had arranged a residential apartment for me; I don't even know where I'm staying tonight. I actually wanted to go home first before heading to Osaka...'

Rikuo wore an expression as resolute as Soyo's.

'My heart has been stolen by Blade; perhaps I will never again feel joy or sorrow in this life.'

Until he approached the apartment and saw the blue glowing cards.

"Hehe, my official Bandai limited cards, do you have cards like these?"

Rikuo approached the apartment ruins and picked up two Undead cards.

"This child, is he really under too much stress and having mental problems?"

From Togawa Kiyotsugu's perspective, he couldn't see the blue glow of the cards. This was a scene only visible to those qualified to be a Kamen Rider. However, precisely because of this privilege, in Kiyotsugu's eyes, Rikuo was already not far from that supreme being in the auditorium.

While Rikuo was happy, he also realized something unusual.

'Why am I so tired right now?'

No sooner had the thought crossed his mind than Rikuo collapsed to the ground.

Chapter Text

"You're awake?"

Kamiyama Rikuo looked at the familiar ceiling and the familiar Sakiko-sensei beside the hospital bed.

"Will I recover quickly?"

Rikuo blurted out. Even the kami who gave us a new world was bewildered.

"Huh?"

Sakiko made Taki's voice. Of course, this clearly wasn't Sakiko's problem. When Sakiko made this sound, it was clearly the fault of the culprit who made her make it.

"Oh, it's nothing, I just thought of an anime plot," Rikuo explained.

Anyway, his heart had been taken by Blade, and perhaps he would never feel joy or sorrow again in this life. How could he be embarrassed by such trivial matters?

"It's good that you're fine. The first day you saved me, and the second night you immediately saved my father. Mr. Hero is truly eager to help, so why would he get into a fight with hooligans? Someone like my father, you could just leave him aside and ask the Officer for help, wouldn't that be a better way? Mr. Hero, do you have anything to say?" (Togawa Kiyotsugu: Children, I have no opinion)

Sakiko looked at Rikuo with a smile as warm as a spring breeze, but unfortunately, there was still no joy in that smile.

Speaking of which, all the beautiful girls in anime really do have their own scents. Soyo is lavender, while Sakiko has a faint fruity scent. Although not as rich as Soyo's, it's refreshing. (Soyo's scent is strong, no need for much marinating)

'It seems Togawa-jisan hasn't had time to explain his situation clearly to Sakiko yet? Sakiko still has this attitude towards him. But he still helped me gloss over the Kamen Rider incident. It seems Togawa-jisan said I got into a conflict with some hooligans who were bothering him. Hmm, it's barely a normal reason. But I don't even have any wounds.'

"Father said they all hit with their fists, specifically targeting your face, and you only fainted after two whole hours of being hit. He also said that when you wake up, he wants me to accompany you to see a psychiatrist, saying things like 'it's normal to be stressed, don't give up on treatment,' which I don't quite understand. Are you really okay?"

Sakiko's small face turned serious, and she looked into Rikuo's eyes with concern.

'Although Sakiko is very beautiful, I'd rather not have her look at me like a rare animal. Speaking of which, Togawa Kiyotsugu, why would you say such nonsensical things? Who would believe that I, a Kamen Rider, was hit in the face for two hours!?'

"It's not that serious, Togawa-san. Your father must be joking with you. Togawa-san, could you give me a mirror so I can see how I look now?"

'Although there's no need to doubt the handsomeness of my face, as a man of the new century, one must learn to appreciate beauty. Of course, if I could see Sakiko-sensei every day, and if she would marry me and let me inherit the Togawa conglomerate, I'd be willing!'

Sakiko gently pulled out her phone from her skirt, opened the camera, flipped it into selfie mode, and handed it to Rikuo.

"Mr. Hero, you should prepare yourself."

Sakiko's face showed a serious expression. But it was clear that she was trying her best to hold it in.

Rikuo took Sakiko's phone.

'Sakiko's personal phone, 99% new. Do you have a phone like this?'

"What's the big deal, it's just looking at my face, my... Togawa-san, did you turn on green light mode on your phone?"

"I apologize, Mr. Hero, my phone doesn't have that mode."

"Hehe, Togawa-san, playing jokes isn't a good habit. How could a normal person's face be so green? If you apologize, we can still talk nicely."

Sakiko could no longer hold back at this moment, shedding the stubbornness of a small hedgehog and the pride of a young lady. She burst into hearty laughter, a genuine smile, no longer a social courtesy smile, nor a 'life is getting sweeter' smile, but the simplest, purest laugh. It didn't look like Togawa Sakiko, but perhaps this was the real Togawa Sakiko.

'Could Sakiko-sensei actually laugh like this? Well, perhaps she can open up more in front of an outsider like me. I hope Light Saki lives forever.'

Rikuo couldn't say anything either; at this moment, the girl's smile was greater than everything. The commander of the famous destroyer Ayanami once said, a smile is enough.

'Speaking of which, my face is so green. On the way to the old apartment, I saw many officers who came to inquire. I thought it was because Togawa-jisan and I didn't look like father and son, and the officer was suspicious. So, I turned into the Hulk? Togawa-jisan was right, a normal person's face wouldn't turn this green without being hit for two hours... But that old man still has to pay the price for using that reason.'

Rikuo could only divert his attention to relax his clenched fists.

'Old man, you're in danger, I'm telling you. I'm going to marry your daughter, and you can spend the rest of your life with your beer bottles.'

Sure enough, Rikuo still couldn't hold back. Looking at the cute Sakiko in front of him, and then thinking of the hateful old man, he made a lifelong vow. (Of course, I'm talking about the old man and the beer bottle, what were you thinking?)

"Saki, is laughing?"

Mutsumi, watching the two from the hospital room door, chose not to enter. She felt that every time she appeared, she would mess things up. Sakiko had only shown this smile once in the past month.

'Can Saki show such a smile when she's with Kamiyama-san? Perhaps if I'm not around, Saki can live better?'

"Saki-chan's voice?"

In the next hospital room, Takamatsu Tomori asked this question.

"Tomori, what are you talking about? How could that girl be here?"

Shiina Taki heard the name she least wanted to hear, NO.1. Although Tomori brought it up, she couldn't help but get a little agitated.

'That girl left the band without explaining anything, and even said that Tomori, who was the most diligent and wanted her to come back, was the one who needed the most practice? What a joke?'

Because it was Tomori in front of her, Taki didn't say what was on her mind. But she still felt indignant in her heart.

"Saki-chan must have a reason for saying that. Maybe it's because I'm not working hard enough?"

Tomori still hadn't moved on from the day Sakiko left the team. Seeing Tomori's downcast expression, Taki clenched her fists.

'Is that girl still affecting Tomori?'

The culprit behind all this, everyone might have guessed, is of course our legendary special agent, Miss Nagasaki Soyo.

Tomori accidentally fell and got injured at school. Although she put on a bandage, the wound was still relatively large. Because she didn't have any classmates she could really talk to, and Tomori's personality made it difficult for her to communicate well, she happened to meet Soyo on the way (definitely not because she heard Sakiko was at Haneoka and was staking her out). Soyo then suggested taking Tomori to Tokyo Medical University Hospital for a check-up.

It was also by coincidence that Taki saw Tomori injured while passing by RiNG, so she took leave to accompany Tomori to the hospital. (Definitely not because Soyo knew Taki's shift schedule).

And so, Crychic, assemble!

Togawa Sakiko: Present!

Takamatsu Tomori: Present!

Nagasaki Soyo: Present!

Shiina Taki: Present!

Wakaba Mutsumi: Present!

Kamiyama Rikuo: Present!

Shiina Taki: "Huh! No, who are you?"

Chapter Text

Although Soyo came to the hospital under the pretense of checking Tomori's injury, she still knew that having everyone from Crychic meet directly in this situation would likely not lead to a good outcome.

'First, I need to further understand Saki-chan's situation before everyone can meet. Taki-chan is still dwelling on what happened back then. Speaking of which, although we haven't officially met, this is Crychic's first reunion since that day, isn't it?'

Returning to Kamiyama Rikuo's side.

"Sakiko-sensei, although your smile is very cute, as an injured person, I feel you have insulted my character. I need to formally state that if you do not immediately cease this infringing behavior, I will..."

Rikuo watched as Sakiko laughed uncontrollably. Although Sakiko was very cute, hehehe, he felt that Mutsumi, standing at the door, was looking at him a bit strangely.

"Sakiko-sensei?"

Sakiko didn't understand his meaning, but she could clearly feel the deep malice in the name. Sakiko's amber eyes narrowed, then shifted into a meaningful, shallow smile.

"So that's what Kamiyama-san calls me behind my back? Giving people nicknames casually isn't a good habit, you know. Although I don't quite understand why you call me like that, would Kamiyama-san mind explaining it?"

Rikuo hadn't expected the words in his mind to slip out.

'It's over. Now Sakiko's impression of me will be that of a strange and mean young man.'

"Of course, Togawa-san! In my hometown’s culture, the word 'teacher' doesn't just refer to someone who imparts knowledge in school; it's also a respectful title for those who have outstanding achievements and deep experience in a certain field. The saying 'Those who are accomplished are teachers' means that anyone who has reached a high level in a certain aspect can become a teacher to others. Just as Confucius said, 'Among three people walking together, there must be one who can teach me.' – everyone has their own strengths and merits and can be an object of learning for others."

"Togawa-san, as an 16-year-old girl, you are already able to live independently and have taken on the important responsibility of supporting your parents ahead of time. This is truly remarkable! In school, your performance is also outstanding and among the best. Someone like you undoubtedly possesses many excellent qualities and abilities worth learning from others. Therefore, you are absolutely qualified to be considered a role model for me to learn from!"

Rikuo, after using all his lifelong knowledge, thinks, 'Surely I can muddle through now, right?'

"Is that so? I'll go search on Yahoo."

How could Kami be so easily fooled?

"This is where you're wrong, Togawa-san! As young people of a new era, we bear important responsibilities and missions. In this information-explosive age, information on the internet comes like a tide, with both true and reliable content, and false and untrue content."

Rikuo paused slightly, then continued,

"Facing such complex and diverse information, we cannot blindly accept everything. Instead, we must learn to think independently, analyze, and judge. Only in this way can we filter out truly valuable content from the vast amount of information and not be misled by false information."

Rikuo's gaze fell on Sakiko as he said earnestly,

"Internet information is mixed, and we cannot definitively confirm the authenticity of every piece of information. Therefore, we need to remain vigilant and not easily believe unverified news. At the same time, we must also cultivate our critical thinking skills to deeply consider and evaluate various viewpoints and statements."

Rikuo felt a slight sweat, choosing not to continue the topic.

"Let's not talk about this for now, Togawa-san. Did anything fall out when I fainted?"

Rikuo hadn't seen what was on the card before he fainted, and now he was wearing a hospital gown with no pockets to hold items.

'It seems this transformation device has side effects. The first transformation turned me into a Wasabi-man. I didn't feel weak at all, though? I can rule out it being like Tachibana Sakuya's situation.'

"Yes, there was."

Sakiko no longer dwelled on the previous topic. From the drawer of the bedside table behind her, she took out the blue fountain pen and four Undead cards.

Rikuo took the fountain pen and cards, secretly breathing a sigh of relief.

"It's good that they're still here. It would have been terrible if a stray night cat had carried them off."

"Are these things useful for anything? When Father brought you back, I saw you still had these things on you. Are they very important?"

Sakiko rested her chin on her hand, looking at Rikuo.

'So, teenage boys like things like this? Should I buy some similar souvenirs as a thank you or something? Although it's not enough to repay Kamiyama-kun's kindness, it could express some gratitude?'

"They're things my father left behind, I suppose."

"Is that so? It seems I brought up a painful memory for you. I apologize."

Upon hearing Rikuo's answer, Sakiko also put away her intention to ask further questions.

'I'll discuss it with Mutsumi later. I don't think it's a good idea to give him something similar to his father's keepsakes.'

"Togawa-san, if you see similar cards, I hope you can sell them to me. Umm, I'm quite fond of collecting these types of cards."

'Since Father has the king of spades and the two of hearts, then logically, the queen of spades should also have been sealed. There should also be some sealed cards outside. If they were activated by some means, the consequences would be unimaginable. Perhaps Sakiko might encounter similar things, so this could serve as a reminder. Although I might be seen as a chuunibyou...'

After some thought, Rikuo chose to hint to Sakiko to help him look for such cards, but he still chose to conceal the cards' abilities.

'Letting a girl directly accept ghosts and strange beings... putting aside whether Sakiko would be scared or not, just imagining Sakiko looking at me like I'm an idiot... makes me... think it might not be so bad?'

"Actually, I'm a Kamen Rider. This fountain pen is my transformation device, and the cards are my source of power. The two of hearts card might even allow Tomori to become human."

Rikuo directly exposed himself due to his selfish desires.

"..."

"..."

"Are you hallucinating? After being beaten for so long, has it really damaged your brain? Father was right, you still need to see a psychologist."

Sakiko put her left hand to her forehead, and as expected, looked at Rikuo with the same eyes that looked at an idiot before pressing the button next to the hospital bed to call a nurse.

"Nurse, could you please call a psychiatrist? My friend seems to really have something wrong with his head!"

Although Rikuo was treated as mentally ill, he felt a surge of satisfaction looking at Sakiko's expression.

'That's the expression! Although my standing in Sakiko's heart might have plummeted again, it's still a worthwhile trade! In any case, everything I said was the absolute truth!'

Chapter Text

It wasn't easy to explain things clearly to the psychiatrist (Kamiyama Rikuo's self-assessment).

The psychiatrist left with a smile, and secretly said a few words to Sakiko.

'She must have said that my mental state is very good and that Sakiko should learn from my lifestyle!'

“This patient is extremely excited; it’s probably nerve excitement caused by emotional agitation, anxiety, tension, etc. Perhaps he has recently experienced some major upheaval. As his family member, you must counsel him well and try to go along with what he says.”

Now Rikuo's mental illness was confirmed.

Sakiko possessed great composure, and her expression didn't change even after hearing these words.

“I understand. Kamiyama-kun is fine, isn’t he? Thank you, Doctor.”

'Sure enough, Kamiyama-kun is under a lot of mental pressure. I'll have to find a way to spend more time with him in the future. It seems he doesn't have many friends, but I also have a part-time job and not that much time... Speaking of which, isn't Kamiyama-kun also working part-time? Perhaps I could find the same place as him?'

Sakiko showed ample concern for the mentally ill person in her heart.

“Kamiyama-kun, you can be discharged today. I won't ask much about you stepping forward during the conflict between my father and the thugs; in short, I am very grateful for your efforts for me and my family.”

Sakiko bowed deeply to Rikuo.

Rikuo chose not to help Sakiko up, not because he was lying in bed, but because he knew this was Sakiko's little pride, and he had to accept this bow. This cute little hedgehog could easily get upset.

“Togawa-san’s gratitude has been received. Let’s continue to help each other as neighbors in the future.”

Rikuo wiped his right hand and extended it to Sakiko. Sakiko saw it and also extended her right hand to grasp his. (Shaking hands, oh oh both hands.)

'Hehe, the plan worked. I got to hold Sakiko's hand.'

“Why just neighbors? Kamiyama-kun, are you unwilling to be my friend? Kamiyama-kun, you can just call me Sakiko from now on! If you don't call me Sakiko, I won't talk to you!”

“Calling you Sakiko is fine, but could you change your address for me? It always feels like you're about to tell me that the Sakura in my hometown has bloomed. Just call me by my name, Rikuo.”

“Although I don’t know what you mean, if Rikuo-kun likes it, then so be it.”

Their relationship grew a step closer, and both were very satisfied with this. After completing the discharge procedures, Rikuo followed Sakiko on the way to the apartment.

Although Rikuo's face was terrifyingly green, it was evening. There were fewer people now, the sky was darker, and it wasn't time for police night patrols, so at least he wouldn't be questioned all the way like last night.

“Speaking of which, doesn't this look like Beauty and the Beast? Hulk and Black Widow? No, Black Widow would have to be played by Soyo.”

Coincidentally, a Tsukinomori Agent was tracking them from behind.

After seeing Tomori off (no need to worry about Taki, she would follow Tomori on her own), she observed near the hospital. When Sakiko and Rikuo walked out of the hospital, she wanted to secretly understand Sakiko's situation.

'Sakiko is my friend. This isn't stalking; at most, it's walking together at a long distance!'

Miss Soyo hypnotized herself like this.

'Also, that boy is actually going home with Saki-chan? Are they really in that kind of relationship? No, Nagasaki Soyo, you must be overthinking. Saki-chan is only 16, and just a month ago she was in a band with us. How could it be so fast?'

At that moment, Soyo's phone popped up with [Shocking! The Current State of Young People's Flash Marriages! Revealing the Unknown Sides of Young Boys and Girls!]

'!!!!! Impossible! Saki-chan can't be that kind of casual woman! I must be overthinking! Even if she is, Saki-chan must have been deceived! I'm going to save Saki-chan!'

Rikuo, however, was contemplating the functions of several cards in his hand.

Aside from the already seen ace of spades - Change Beetle and jack of spades - Fusion Eagle, the other two cards were two of hearts - Spirit and king of spades - Evolution Caucasus.

'I actually got the king of spades already? No, these were left by my dad, which proves he might have already transformed into King Form. According to this logic, perhaps the side effect of transformation is also the process of becoming a joker? But isn't that side effect only supposed to happen when transforming into King Form? So, my dad's death might have been his own...' (Cold knowledge: Blade's setting states that if only one joker Undead remains, the world will be destroyed.)

Rikuo decided to put aside these thoughts for now, as there weren't enough clues.

'In short, I can't transform into Blade unless absolutely necessary. This world might not be that simple. And the two of hearts, Spirit. This isn't the enhanced weapon ability of other corresponding Category 2 cards. The ability of this card is to bestow a human soul and appearance. As the victor of the 10,000-year-ago race war in the Blade world, and the ancestor of humanity, it can't be a simple card. Speaking of which, what Tomori wants most is to become human. Maybe this card has some use for her?'

Rikuo finished analyzing the two cards, and made a joke in his heart to comfort himself.

Tomori: I have an ominous feeling, like I'm being watched by countless eyes.

'By the way, these two cards don't seem usable. And the jack of spades provided earlier isn't an ability related to enhancing combat. It seems to be entirely focused on rarity.'

“Speaking of which, Rikuo-kun, you must be hungry, right?”

The two walked in front of the convenience store, and Sakiko looked back at Rikuo.

“Come to think of it, I haven’t eaten for two days; I’ve just been on an IV drip.”

Rikuo realized that he had only been out of bed for less than 4 hours in the past two days.

“There are 5 minutes left until the god of half-price war begins.”

Rikuo stared at the convenience store, revealing a resolute gaze like Soyo's.

“Based on my observations, there are 4 fried chicken cutlet bento boxes left today, 3 teriyaki chicken cutlet boxes, and only 1 box of the most popular curry pork cutlet.”

Rikuo clenched his fist.

“As the god of half-price, I must choose the most popular pork cutlet curry. Target locked—pork cutlet curry! At all costs! Even if I have to bet my life!”

Sakiko frowned slightly, a little worried about Rikuo's condition, in various aspects.

“But you just got discharged; shouldn’t you skip it today?”

Rikuo’s gaze became even more resolute.

“I swear on the honor of the god of half-price, I must not lose! For a half-price bento, I can temporarily forget the pain! I fear no forgetting!”

Sakiko heard what Rikuo said, and while silent, she paid more attention to the last phrase.

'Fear no forgetting? Rikuo-kun really is the same kind of person as me, isn't he? I feel like I want to get along even better with Rikuo-kun.'

Sakiko heard the lines from her childhood chuunibyou play, and while joyous due to the resonance in her heart, she further deepened her relationship with Rikuo.

Chapter Text

Look, in the distant Tokyo, something beautiful is happening.

A man calling himself the god of half-price appeared, Kamiyama Rikuo, the god of half-price, set his sights on the convenience store, ready to snatch the curry pork cutlet rice.

Kamiyama Rikuo, the god of half-price, is a Kamen Rider.

His head is OWO;

His hands are his girlfriend;

His body is Togawa Kiyotsugu's father.

As Rikuo was about to pounce on the convenience store, Togawa Sakiko, the leader of Crychic, who was watching him from the side, spotted him and immediately stopped (with a loud voice) his plot!

"Do you dare to defy me, who is about to become the god of half-price?"

Sakiko couldn't keep her composure, fearing that others would recognize her and it would be too embarrassing, so she covered her face.

The invincible Sakiko fell (sadly), and no one in the universe would know about this disaster.

Back to the main topic, let's observe Rikuo's competitors.

OL Sister: Her handbag was replaced with a combat backpack, her eyes were sharp, she was suspected of being a former boxer.

University Student Trio: They were tactically dispersed, and one of them was secretly moving his wrists, suspected of being a delinquent (or possibly malnourished).

Fitness Coach: His muscles were tense, ready to sprint at any moment.

Rikuo sighed softly.

"This is bad, they're all masters..."

Sakiko silently pulled out her phone.

"Actually, I pre-ordered a half-price bento."

Rikuo was shocked!

"Is this the privilege of a beautiful girl!"

At exactly 21:00, the moment the clerk put on the "half-price" label;

The fitness coach rushed out like a tiger, the OL sister elbowed University Student A back, Rikuo hopped on one foot towards the shelf, but then;

Bang!

The freezer suddenly sprayed out a large amount of cold air, and everyone subconsciously looked back.

"Now!"

Rikuo whispered, taking the opportunity to reach for the curry pork cutlet bento, however;

University Student B flashed over!

"Dream on!"

"It's a once-in-a-lifetime flash from a Jo family member! Don't think only you can do this!"

Rikuo turned his head and shouted. He pulled out a blue pen and an ace of spades.

"On the honor of the god of half-price! Henshin!"

(However, nothing happened.)

Sakiko pressed her hand to her forehead.

'Father and the doctor were right, why did I feel a resonance with a mentally ill person...'

"Why can't I transform at such a critical moment! This is a decisive battle where I've staked my dignity!"

Indeed, in front of Sakiko, Rikuo had no dignity left... University Student C let out a cold laugh.

"Hahaha, so it's late-stage chuunibyou."

Sakiko covered her face again and moved a few steps away from the scene.

"It's too embarrassing! How about we just give up, Rikuo-kun."

"No, a hero cannot desert in battle!"

Sakiko heard Rikuo's reply and remembered the doctor's previous instructions.

'The doctor said to soothe Rikuo-kun by going along with his thoughts, emm, I think I have an idea.'

As expected of the kami of the new world, no one could surpass her in strategy!

Just as Rikuo was about to be defeated.

"Manager! There's someone here secretly hiding an unpaid pudding!"

Sakiko suddenly shouted, waving her hand high.

Everyone turned their heads in unison.

"What?!"

Taking advantage of the chaos, Sakiko darted forward, grabbed the curry pork cutlet bento and two boxes of fried chicken cutlets, and calmly walked back to the cashier.

"Sakiko... you are the true 'god of half-price'..."

Rikuo watched Sakiko's actions, dumbfounded.

"Here, your god of half-price trophy."

Sakiko handed him the curry pork cutlet bento and a box of fried chicken cutlets, and Sakiko also picked up her pre-ordered beef curry bento.

The two then sat on a bench outside the convenience store, devouring their bentos.

"Although the process was brutal, the fruit of victory is truly delicious..."

Rikuo's face was full of satisfaction.

"Oh, did you just say 'Henshin'? Do you also like Kamen Rider?"

Because of the doctor's words, Sakiko went along with Rikuo's interest.

'It's a good thing that Kamen Rider in this world only updated to Agito, so there won't be any crossover situations. But I was a bit too excited just now, it's good that I couldn't transform, otherwise it would have been chaotic.'

"Yes, I especially like Kamen Rider. I got excited just now and shouted it out without thinking."

"If Kamen Rider knew their powers were used for this, they might cry."

Sakiko covered her mouth with her left hand and chuckled, looking at Rikuo.

'Shouldn't this period be Dark Saki? Why do I feel like I've always seen Light Saki! Light Saki is good, I won't eat if it's not Light Saki!'

"Stop talking! I was wrong! By the way, Sakiko, that move you just pulled was brilliant."

"Hmph, of course. Everyone was in a tense state, and at that moment, just one piece of information that could guide everyone would create a flaw."

"As expected of Sakiko! She easily did what we couldn't!"

"You'd better thank me properly."

In the convenience store's surveillance room, the manager watched the footage, silently pulled out a small notebook, and wrote: Newly promoted Half-Price War God: Togawa Sakiko. Danger Level: SS; on the surface, a 16-year-old girl, but with extraordinary instantaneous calculation abilities.

...

Meanwhile, Miss Nagasaki Soyo was still hiding next to the convenience store.

"Speaking of which, I haven't had dinner yet either. I went straight to Haneoka after school. Then I ran into Tomori-chan, who was injured, and now I'm still following... No, this isn't stalking! It's just concern for a friend! That's right!"

Poor Soyo's tummy was rumbling like thunder.

"Hey, you haven't eaten yet, have you?"

Rikuo appeared from behind Soyo, scaring Soyo so much that she immediately pulled out a stun gun from her shoulder bag.

"Calm down, calm down, we've met before. Didn't you come yesterday to help Sakiko find something?"

Rikuo raised his hands to show he was harmless. His right hand was still holding a vegetable salad.

"I saw you standing there, you must have wanted to snatch a half-price bento too, but unfortunately there's no meat left, only this. Do you think this will do?"

Rikuo accidentally saw Soyo outside the door while snatching the bento. He certainly knew Soyo wasn't there to snatch a bento, but when he went to the restroom just now, he heard a girl's murmur and returned to the battlefield to snatch the last vegetable salad from the OL sister's hand. Actually, there was meat, but it was chicken gizzards, and he knew Soyo didn't like animal offal.

Soyo looked at the vegetable salad in Rikuo's hand, her tension dissipated, and she took the bento.

"Thank you, how much is this? I'll pay you."

"Well, I don't have my phone now, and I only have this patient gown with no pockets, so let's forget about the money. Anyway, it's just a half-price vegetable salad, not much money."

"No, I can't take your things for free! I'll give you my contact information, and I'll pay you back when I have the chance."

Soyo showed a determined look, and she already had an ulterior motive in her heart.

'If I have his contact information, maybe I can understand Saki-chan better now?'

"Alright, alright."

Rikuo could only spread his hands helplessly. Soyo wrote a note and handed it to Rikuo.

"Be sure to add me when you get your phone."

"Okay, okay, I'll listen to you."

"By the way, my name is Nagasaki Soyo, I haven't asked your name yet. It would be too rude not to know the name of the person who helped me."

"My name is Kamiyama Rikuo."

"Kamiyama-kun? Thank you very much this time."

At this moment, Soyo's phone rang. She saw 'Mom' noted on the screen. She glanced at Rikuo, who made a gesture to proceed, and Soyo answered the call.

"Soyo-chan, Mom is coming home today, have you missed Mom?"

"Coming home tonight? So sudden?"

"Did Mom disturb Soyo-chan? Yes, Soyo-chan is also at that age now. Heh heh, when can you bring someone for Mom to see, Mom will help you advise?"

"Mom, that joke isn't funny at all! You didn't disturb me, I'm just a little surprised!"

"Heh heh, really?"

"Alright, Mom!"

"Soyo-chan has grown up, she's even yelling at Mom for a man, boo hoo."

"Mom, really no, I'm still young, just turned 16."

"Mom and your dad were even younger than you when they... Never mind, let's not talk about that. I'll be home soon, I'll hug my Soyo-chan when I get home, I won't be able to hug you later."

'I want a hug too'

Rikuo also wanted to be tackled... The call ended, and Soyo looked at Rikuo. After tracking him all this way, she also felt that Rikuo shouldn't be the kind of person reported in the news. And since Rikuo had already discovered her, there was no way to continue tracking him.

"Then, Kamiyama-kun, I'll take my leave now."

"Okay."

Chapter Text

Soyo bid a simple farewell and prepared to leave.

“If Mom gets home and finds I’m not there, I wonder what kind of jokes she’ll make this time.”

Soyo clearly understood that her mother knew she was a homebody after school.

Soyo was the center of attention in her social circle at school, but she didn’t like the feeling of mutual flattery. What she hoped for were friends who could get closer to each other’s hearts, and in her eyes, Sakiko was such a person.

After only a few steps, Soyo looked back at Kamiyama Rikuo.

Rikuo was waving at her.

“He seems like a very thoughtful boy. No wonder Saki-chan is so close to him.”

Soyo sighed softly.

“How enviable. I feel like Saki-chan never showed me that kind of smile when we were together before. Someone Saki-chan trusts so much probably isn’t a problem… No, I still need to observe more.”

Soyo also waved goodbye to Rikuo and left without further hesitation.

“Speaking of which, even though the lighting was dim today, why did Kamiyama-kun’s face look so green?”

…

“Rikuo-kun, does it take that long to use the restroom?”

‘I heard that when boys are stressed, they do some xxx things in the restroom, but Rikuo-kun shouldn’t be that kind of person, right? Probably…’

Sakiko looked at Rikuo, one hand crossed over her chest, the other propping up her chin, her amber eyes full of questions.

“Nothing, I just saw a special-grade cursed spirit. I couldn’t defeat it with all my strength, so in the end, I had to use my ultimate move, ‘You’re so self-centered,’ to repel it. But I estimate it will still linger, so Sakiko, you need to be careful.”

“Rikuo-kun, can you speak Japanese?”

A vein popped up on Sakiko’s forehead, and Rikuo felt that if he didn’t say something, he would encounter Doctor Octopus.

“I just met a friend, chatted for a few minutes, and he had to leave early because of something at home.”

Rikuo chose to use the male pronoun, fearing that Sakiko would ask too many questions and he would make more mistakes.

“Is that so? A friend of Rikuo-kun’s? Can you introduce him to me next time?”

‘I’ve lived next door to Rikuo-kun for a month and have never seen or heard of him having any friends. Is he trying to hide something from me? Could it be that Rikuo-kun really…’

Due to her psychiatrist’s advice, Sakiko didn’t ask any more questions, but she left Rikuo with a big problem.

‘Speaking of which, I really don’t have any friends here. Japanese boys who are older have to be called senpai, and younger ones have to be flattered. Among peers, because the anime and tokusatsu here are more than ten years behind, there’s nothing to talk about. And everyone in this world plays music, but I never had time to play music before. I still need to find a male friend.’

“Of course, Sakiko, I’ll introduce him to you when we have time next.”

Although there were some detours along the way, the two didn’t waste too much time and arrived at the new apartment.

Although the new apartment wasn’t much different in size from the old one, it was much better in terms of environment and closer to the train station.

‘Sakiko-sensei probably won’t be late for work even if Soyo pulls her around, probably.’

Sakiko-sensei was once again targeted by unknown malice, but Sakiko-sensei didn’t know; she just looked back at Rikuo.

“This is our new apartment. You’re still living next door to me, so we’re still neighbors. Please take care of me.”

Sakiko bowed slightly, and Rikuo returned the bow. Although their way of speaking had become more intimate, this was actually only their second day of officially knowing each other.

“You too, Sakiko. Although our previous month as neighbors was distant, now that I officially know you, I won’t be distant from such a cute young girl.”

Rikuo ran his hand through his hair, having said one of his few serious remarks, though only half-serious.

“By the way, Sakiko, the difference between these two apartments is too great, isn’t it? How did you extort… get so much compensation from the landlord?”

Rikuo knew that Sakiko wouldn’t rely too much on her family’s power; the hospital treatment was already the limit, and it was impossible to use family resources to rent an apartment.

“You don’t have to worry about that. The landlord is a good person.”

“After confirming the gas explosion issue, it seems his homeowner’s insurance, valued at 10 million yen for each apartment, took effect, and the tenant’s liability insurance also covered your treatment costs.”

Sakiko said, then smiled, her eyes curving like a newly risen moon. Speaking of which, the new moon controls gravity, so that’s why!

“The landlord said that this is also an apartment under his ownership. The old apartment was originally waiting to be demolished, but now it’s all good, and he even got an extra insurance payout, so he rented this apartment to us at half price. By the way, your apartment key is still with me, and your compensation money is also in the apartment. Let me take you in to see it.”

Sakiko said, pulling Rikuo’s sleeve, walking towards the apartment, and opening the door.

Although the apartment was still only about 30 square meters, only slightly larger than the previous 20-plus square meter apartment, it was basically fully furnished, feeling like a hotel’s junior suite. Upon entering, a small box was placed on the small wooden table in the living room.

“This is the compensation the landlord gave you. Because it was the direct site of the accident, and also because you were the main victim, the landlord said he compensated you 400,000 yen. My father and I received a total of 300,000 yen in compensation.” (The landlord tearfully made a profit of 20 million yen. By the way, the doll Sakiko’s mother left behind is still there.)

Seeing Sakiko’s excited expression when talking about the compensation, Rikuo couldn’t help but feel a little heartache.

‘The old Sakiko would only be this happy when she was in the band.’

‘After so long of part-time jobs, during such a long period of suppressed days, how could she not be happy to receive a compensation amount comparable to working for a long time and receiving many scholarships?’

“Is that so? That’s really great.”

Rikuo also responded happily, as he was currently penniless, and his phone and all his belongings from the old apartment were gone.

Rikuo opened the small box on the landlord’s wooden table, which contained a mobile phone and a bank card.

“The landlord is quite thoughtful. Speaking of which, the landlord also received compensation from the insurance company. This is a win-win situation!” (Insurance company: You’re right!)

“Even though I have a phone, I don’t have a SIM card…”

“It’s no trouble. There’s a phone store nearby. It’s getting late, so I’ll head back first.”

“Okay, goodbye, Sakiko-sensei.”

“Goodbye, Rikuo-kun.”

A simple farewell, and the dark sky marked the end of the day.

Chapter Text

At 6:30 AM, the sky was just turning a faint white, and a thin mist, like a translucent veil, enveloped the streets.

As a former university student in his previous life, Kamiyama Rikuo was, of course, still dreaming.

However, our Sakiko-sensei was already awake; she still had to make bento, and today she wanted to make one for Rikuo as well.

'Speaking of which, this is Rikuo-kun's first time going to Haneoka High School today.'

Although Sakiko had received a considerable sum in compensation, she still maintained her frugal nature; because Rikuo was hospitalized again yesterday, Togawa Kiyotsugu hadn't had a chance to explain to his daughter yet.

'I wonder what Rikuo-kun likes to eat.'

The morning passed quickly, and it was soon time for students to attend their 8 AM classes.

A knocking sound came from Rikuo's apartment door.

"Rikuo-kun, it's time to get up."

Rikuo suddenly opened his eyes and saw an unfamiliar ceiling.

"I woke up too fast; hearing Sakiko-sensei's voice, I thought I was hospitalized again."

Sakiko's calls, mixed with knocking, were still sounding at the door.

"It's truly my honor to receive Sakiko-sensei's wake-up service."

Rikuo quickly put on his clothes and opened the door, looking at Sakiko in front of him.

"Although you explained it before, I still feel this address is full of malice. Never mind, hurry and get ready; we need to go to school."

"Alright, give me 3 minutes."

Boys get ready quickly. Before 3 minutes were up, Sakiko saw Rikuo walk out of his room.

"Let's go."

"Hmm, but we have to separate at the school gate."

"That's right, in Japan, if a boy and a girl go to school together, they're considered a couple."

Rikuo looked at Sakiko's slightly flushed face, knowing she was a little shy after hearing that.

"But going to school with a green monster would only make people think you've been kidnapped, right?"

Sakiko lightly kicked Rikuo. The feeling of shyness flashed away, replaced by her standard crescent smile.

"Rikuo-kun really can't be serious, can he? By the way, your face isn't that green anymore."

"If it were still that green today, I'd rather cosplay a bush. If the school staff saw me like that in broad daylight, it would probably create a new urban legend."

...

About one kilometer from Haneoka, Sakiko took out the bento she made for Rikuo.

"Rikuo-kun, as part of my thanks, I'll be making your bento from now on. You can tell me anything you can't eat or really like."

"I'm extremely grateful. It's the honor of my life to be fed by Sakiko-sensei."

"So you mean you don't have any dietary restrictions, right? Oh, also, at school, could I ask you to try not to talk to me, Rikuo-kun?"

"Is Sakiko-sensei disgusted with me? Sobbing."

"No, not at all. Although Rikuo-kun advised me a lot before, I still don't have the courage to talk to Tomori right now. By the way, you don't know Tomori yet, do you? Takamatsu Tomori, she's in your class. She's a very cute girl!"

"Impossible, absolutely impossible! How could there be anyone in this world who challenges Sakiko-sensei's authority in terms of cuteness?"

"Anyway, just try not to talk to me. I'm going ahead, otherwise, Rikuo-kun will be late."

Sakiko didn't linger and ran towards the school.

But according to Murphy's Law, the ultimate move is... what you least want to happen will definitely happen. Tomori happened to come to school at this time and coincidentally saw Rikuo and Sakiko talking.

"Does Saki-chan have a new friend? Saki-chan looked so sad at school these past two days, but meeting this boy, she can show such a relaxed expression. Is it really because of my problem that Saki-chan quit? Saki-chan's expression was so pained then."

... 

Rikuo arrived in the classroom and saw all the colorful hair.

"Everyone's Super Saiyan levels are very high; I'm embarrassing you all."

Boys passing by heard Rikuo's words and excitedly chimed in.

"You watch Dragon Ball too? But what does Super Saiyan level mean? Hair length? There are indeed quite a few girls with long hair in the class, right?"

'Oh, that's right, Dragon Ball Super hasn't come out in this world yet, and it's not the era of hair dye. But, speaking of which, I need to make a male friend to deal with Sakiko-sensei.'

"Yes, I really like Dragon Ball. I was just joking. I was hospitalized due to an accident two days ago. Could you tell me about the class?"

"My name is Nakajima Kento, just call me Kento. Are you interested in joining the Anime Club? People who like Dragon Ball are not bad people; we can definitely become best friends."

"My name is Kamiyama Rikuo. Is Sakiko in the Anime Club?"

"Sakiko? Who is Sakiko? It seems there's no one by that name in the Anime Club."

"Okay, I'm not joining."

"Kamiyama-kun?"

Rikuo found a corner to lean against. The teacher told him to wait in the classroom for now and would introduce him when class started.

'It's still comfortable here. The joys and sorrows of humanity are not interconnected; I just find them noisy. It seems I need to think of another way for Sakiko to see that I have male friends.'

Nakajima Kento didn't force Rikuo and didn't press him much after knowing he wouldn't join.

"Anyway, Kamiyama-kun, even if you don't join the Anime Club, we can still be best friends. After all, we both like Dragon Ball."

"Yes, we are already lifelong best friends."

'It seems I don't need to think of any extra methods.'

Rikuo was already prepared to use Kento as a tool. Isn't a sword a tool? He doesn't have Unlimited Blade Works.

"Shake hands, shake both hands. From now on, you, Kento, are my brother for life."

"For life? Kamiyama-kun is really an interesting person."

Nakajima Kento watched Rikuo's expression change faster than flipping a book and was already doubting his decision.

...

The class bell rang, students were about to start their 8 AM class. Be careful not to get caught reading novels, and those slacking off at work, watch out for your boss behind you.

The teacher walked into the classroom, bringing with her a girl with long pink hair.

"Students, today we have two new classmates. Please introduce yourselves."

"Ladies first."

Rikuo looked at Chihaya Anon, who was eager to present herself, and gave her the opportunity.

"Hello everyone, my name is Chihaya Anon. Due to family reasons, I enrolled at a strange time. I hope you all will befriend me. Please take care of me."

Anon's sweet voice and sunny demeanor were in full force, attracting the attention of the entire class. Her self-introduction was very successful.

Rikuo was not to be outdone.

"Kamiyama Rikuo, male. I usually like to watch games and play anime, but most importantly, more than ACG, I like Sakiko!"

‘He's a strange person.’

The entire class couldn't help but sigh in their hearts.

Chapter Text

The class fell silent.

'Oh no, I thought he looked a bit green in the face, but he seemed like a refined boy who would be popular. I even thought about entering the class together to get closer and make an impression, but is he really such a strange boy? Hmm, I'd better find a way to stay away. I don't want to be seen as weird myself.'

Anon had already removed Kamiyama Rikuo from her list of potential friends, but she still showed her fangs and a sweet smile, clapping softly.

"That was a very unique self-introduction, Kamiyama-san."

"Same to you, Chihaya-san. Yoroshiku."

Rikuo thought his performance was a success; with such a perfect impression, not many people should bother him.

'With my ghost-ridden fate, it's better to have fewer bonds.'

'Yoroshiku appeared. A biker gang member? A delinquent? Oh no, oh no. I really need to stay away.'

Anon watched Rikuo's changing expression, her smiling face gradually stiffening, wondering how to quickly end this awkward interlude.

"Since the self-introductions are over, please return to your seats. Chihaya-san, you sit in the second to last empty seat in the third row. Kamiyama-san, since you're a boy and tall, you'll sit in the seat behind Chihaya-san."

The teacher's timely words came out, and Anon breathed a sigh of relief as if freed.

In fact, with the girl's outstanding appearance, lively and cheerful personality, excellent grades, and outstanding social skills, even with a few minor incidents, it wouldn't affect her becoming the central figure in the class. But her experience in England still left the girl with some lingering fear.

...

The bell rang for class dismissal, and Anon's seat was quickly surrounded by girls.

"Chihaya-san is so cute."

"You said you enrolled late due to family reasons, that's really tough."

"And with that strange boy... that's really tough."

Because Anon enrolled with a strange person like Rikuo, she actually received a lot of concern from the good children.

"No, Kamiyama-san is a very interesting person. Everyone, if you all talk at once, I can't answer everyone."

Anon exuded the dazzling light unique to a popular person, floating in enjoyment of being the center of attention.

"Your surname is as cute as your name. What did everyone call you at your previous school?"

"Just call me Anon."

Actually, Anon was called Chihaya in middle school, but Anon wanted to separate from her past self.

'Did I become popular earlier because of Kamiyama-san's influence? That's great. But Kamiyama-san seems a bit too pitiful.'

Anon worriedly glanced at the back seat and saw the girl she had seen during yesterday's interview standing next to Rikuo.

"It's Tomori."

"Why would Tomori go to that strange boy?"

"Do they know each other?"

The surrounding classmates looked in the direction of Anon's gaze. Tomori stood in front of Rikuo, head bowed, saying nothing. Tomori wasn't the type to initiate conversation; she just stared blankly like a penguin observing something new, her gaze filled with a desire for exploration.

'Is Saki-chan's current friend like this? Hmm, how should I start talking to him?'

As Tomori pondered how to speak, Rikuo's brain also trembled.

'Why is the eccentric girl Tomori seeking me out? Did my self-introduction just now attract her? But I don't know how to talk to her, and I can't talk about Sakiko-sensei. I've got it, Tomori likes rocks!'

"Flowers, trees, sky, wind, clouds, sun, rainbows, oceans, seashores, forests, rocks, sand, ground."

Rikuo, with his brain comparable to an i9-13900K, instantly extracted relevant vocabulary. Rikuo read out each word deliberately, fully embodying Agams's performance through his voice, spirit, and body.

'Eccentric enough, no problem.'

Tomori looked up, tilted her head, her small eyes filled with great confusion.

'What do these words mean? I can't understand them at all. Is becoming human really that difficult?'

Not just Tomori, but the surrounding classmates were also dumbfounded.

'These words are so ordinary individually, but why do they sound so painful when read together?'

The ringing of the class bell broke everyone's silence. Thankfully, school had classes.

"It feels like this boy doesn't need concern."

Anon hadn't fully emerged from the atmosphere of Rikuo's forbidden spell chant, holding her head in her hands, her mind full of questions. She also remembered that it seemed Tomori had actively gone to find Rikuo.

'So that girl is called Tomori? Why would Tomori go to that boy? Never mind, I'll focus on studying first. Good grades are also part of socializing.'

Anon patted her cheeks and began to listen attentively. At this time, she didn't know that she would later encounter Evolto... no, I mean, a black hole of gravity.

...

The afternoon sun slanted into the classroom. The time spent studying diligently passed quickly, and soon it was lunchtime.

Don't ask why you don't feel like time passes quickly in class; close your light novel, the teacher is standing right behind you.

Many people left the classroom, ready to grab today's limited bento, but as the god of half-price, Rikuo didn't need to today because he had Sakiko-sensei's loving bento.

"Um, hello, may I eat lunch with you all?"

Anon had also chosen her target and entered the traffic light group. Tomori, however, did not go to the Astronomy Club as in the plot; she continued to walk next to Rikuo. This time, Tomori wanted to make the first move. But Rikuo wouldn't give her that chance; when faced with a situation, he couldn't just sit there and wait!

"A mere stone, after I'm done looking, I'll use a Gundam to push it back!"

Tomori... "Is becoming human really that difficult?"

Tomori's inner thoughts came out.

Anon saw the situation here and interrupted her conversation with the traffic light group. Walking towards Rikuo's seat, Chihaya Anon slammed her palm on Rikuo's desk with a "bang," causing his blue fountain pen to roll to the floor.

"Kamiyama-san!"

Anon's voice was eight octaves higher than usual, causing several surrounding classmates to turn their heads. She clenched her fists, her chest rising and falling slightly with rapid breathing.

"Why are you bullying Tomori?"

Rikuo turned his head, looking bewildered, still chewing on half an unfinished octopus sausage, pointing at himself with his left hand.

"Huh? Me?"

Because of her experience in England, Anon had a deep impression of school bullying. Anon took a deep breath, as if suppressing her anger.

"Why has Tomori been standing by your side without saying anything? You must have threatened her, right?"

Anon's voice was very low, but every word was clear.

"And those incomprehensible words just now, and Tomori picking up stones before, it must be related to you. I clearly heard that every word you said to Tomori involved stones!"

Chapter Text

Seeing Anon’s angry expression, Kamiyama Rikuo almost choked on his bread.

“Huh? No, you must have misunderstood.”

“Then why did Tomori pick up stones yesterday, and why did she stand in front of you during her free time?”

Rikuo opened his mouth, momentarily speechless.

‘Yeah, why? I’m looking for the answer too.’

“Chihaya-san, you’ve misunderstood. Actually, collecting stones is my hobby.”

Tomori, seeing Anon’s small face flushed with excitement (a girl’s blush surpasses everything), quickly explained.

“Tomori, don’t be afraid. If you encounter a threat, you can tell me. Both I and the teacher will help you.”

Anon gently patted Tomori’s shoulder, trying to give her the courage to speak the truth, even though what Tomori said was already the truth.

“Ugh…”

Tomori also didn’t know how to explain. Her helpless rose-gold eyes looked at Rikuo, her ash brown short hair gently swaying, expressing the girl’s helplessness.

To this, Rikuo spread his hands.

“The opposing jungler went into my jungle. Why did he go under the tower? The bot lane kept telling me to go, but how could I go? Others kept invading my jungle.”

“Huh? What are you talking about?”

Anon’s anger was paused; she couldn’t understand Rikuo’s words.

“Don’t understand? That’s right, don’t understand. Calm down first; there must be a misunderstanding.”

Rikuo replied softly. He knew that when people are emotional, it’s difficult for them to listen to others. So he chose to be a joker first, at least to ease the situation. (Don’t learn this; you’re not dealing with Anon.)

At this moment, the traffic light trio came over.

“What’s wrong, Anon-chan? Why are you so angry?”

“I saw Tomori being bossed around by this guy, and I felt like Tomori must have been threatened by him.”

Anon’s emotions had stabilized by half, but she still felt that something was off. Anon had zero tolerance for school bullying.

“Chihaya-san, actually, I saw my friend chatting with Rikuo-kun this morning, so I wanted to ask, but I didn’t know how to start.”

Tomori, seeing Anon’s emotions calm down, although a little scared, still slowly stated the reason.

“Picking up stones really is my hobby. I like collecting them.”

Tomori scurried back to her desk and took out her collection from a file box.

“This one was found in the school flowerbed, this one from the riverside pond, this one from Ryoura Park…”

“Yes, Tomori has always collected these. Anon-chan, you must have misunderstood something, right?”

Seeing the full story, the traffic light trio also began to persuade Anon.

Although Anon had just had a big outburst, she was essentially a very kind girl and only chose to step forward because she suspected Tomori was being bullied, even if the result was a bit of a misunderstanding.

Anon slowly lowered her head, glanced at the stones in Tomori’s pencil case, then looked up at the innocent-faced Rikuo, and finally.

“I’m sorry!!!”

Anon suddenly bowed, her voice almost echoing throughout the classroom.

“I was too rash!!!”

After confirming the situation, Anon immediately apologized.

Rikuo scratched his head, giving two dry laughs.

“It’s okay, it’s good that the misunderstanding is cleared up.”

Anon picked up the pen from the floor, wiped it with her sleeve, and handed it to Rikuo with both hands.

‘One shouldn’t judge people by first impressions. Hearing Kamiyama-san’s “Yoroshiku” made me instinctively think of him as a delinquent or something. How rude of me. And it caused such a big scene, making all the classmates resting during lunch break aware of it. I need to find a way to make it up to him.’

Rikuo took the pen and subconsciously checked the cards on the desk. Rikuo had planned to buy a storage box after eating his bento during lunch break; he was afraid that if he kept them in his pocket, they might get crumpled, leading to an incident like the one at the old apartment last time. If they exploded now, it wouldn’t be a small, confined space like last time.

Seeing that everything was fine, he slowly let out a sigh of relief.

“Thank you, Chihaya-san. This pen is quite important to me.”

Anon’s grey eyes glanced over, seeing the cards on the desk.

‘So boys like these kinds of things?’

Anon had always attended all-girls schools (Haneoka High School was also an all-girls school, which specially opened admissions to male students in this enrollment period). She had never interacted with boys and didn’t know what boys her age liked.

“Rikuo-kun, you can just call me Anon from now on! I’ll call you Rikuo-kun too. Do you like collecting these kinds of cards, Rikuo-kun? Speaking of which, it’s quite similar to Tomori.”

“Yes, if you see similar cards, please sell them to me. I will kneel down and lick your shoes.”

Rikuo chose to use the same phrasing as Sakiko.

“Got it! No need to be so exaggerated! If I find similar cards, I’ll give them to you as an apology for this incident.”

Because of the small friction between Anon and Rikuo, the entire class also learned that Rikuo was collecting certain types of cards and that they were exchanged for compensation.

‘This way, it might actually protect quite a few people. As expected of Saint Anon. Anon must have her own intentions in doing this.’

Rikuo looked at Anon’s slightly embarrassed, tiger-toothed smile, feeling admiration in his heart.

“Then Tomori, you talk to Rikuo-kun about your matters. I’m going to eat first.”

Anon chose to leave the awkward atmosphere first.

‘Still not used to getting along with strange children, especially strange boys.’

...

“Tomori, did you see me talking with Sakiko on the way to school?”

As Anon left, Rikuo began the topic Tomori had brought up earlier.

“Yes, yes. This morning I saw Saki-chan talking to you, and she looked very happy. I haven’t seen Saki-chan smile in a long time.”

“Hmm, Sakiko might just be going through a small issue, but she can’t resolve it right now. Can you give Sakiko a little more time? Sakiko should come to apologize herself soon.”

After two “telepathic” conversations, Rikuo dared not let himself go wild again and chose to treat Little Penguin with normal human communication.

“Oh, is that so? But Saki-chan doesn’t need to apologize. It’s all because I didn’t try hard enough that…”

Little Penguin was like a deflated ball, slowly lowering her head. Her once round eyes now looked dim and lifeless, seemingly shrouded in an invisible sadness, and her ash brown hair also drooped down. Little Penguin stood there quietly, motionless, as if time itself had frozen at that moment.

“Don’t worry, Tomori. Sakiko has always told me that your singing is a cry from the soul. Your self-negation, isn’t that also a disapproval of Sakiko’s judgment? At that time, Sakiko was probably just like Anon just now.”

Rikuo used Anon’s example to persuade Little Penguin, although he knew that Sakiko’s decision was not due to excitement, but rather a result of careful consideration.

‘Wanting to bear the infamy alone? Sakiko-sensei, you are truly high and mighty.’

“Is that so? So Saki-chan also acted that way because of emotional issues… Speaking of which, Anon-chan, who seems so gentle, also has moments of emotional impulsiveness.”

Hearing Rikuo’s words, Little Penguin reverted to Takamatsu Tomori; one could see her hair seemed to regain its spirit.

“Rikuo-kun, you are also a very gentle person.”

“Huh? Me?”

Chapter Text

In the classroom, at Kamiyama Rikuo's seat, Rikuo pointed at himself with a bewildered expression.

"Hmm. What Rikuo-kun says, it feels like he never considers himself."

The ethereal Tomori, on the contrary, seemed to see things that didn't exist. Her rose-gold eyes looked at Rikuo, making him feel a bit guilty.

"Is that so? Didn't I just say whatever I wanted? Tomori, you're overthinking it, aren't you?"

"Really?"

Tomori's gaze on Rikuo didn't change. After asking Anon to borrow her seat, she turned Anon's chair and sat next to Rikuo. Without asking Rikuo's opinion, she opened her blue-packaged bento and started eating.

'Holy cow, a precious scene of the Little Penguin feeding! Speaking of which, there's never been a scene of Tomori eating in the show! So Little Penguin needs to eat?!'

Rikuo felt he had discovered the ninth wonder of the world and needed to record it. He rummaged through the surrounding books, realizing he hadn't bought any stationery at all, only the distributed books and his rider system fountain pen.

'I can't possibly write on books or undead cards, can I? Forget it, I, Kamiyama Rikuo, have lost the privilege of recording history!'

Tomori looked at Rikuo's expression, which went from shock to elation, then to excitement, and finally to sadness, with an unprecedented level of confusion in her eyes.

'Hmm, are human emotions really that complex? It feels like nothing happened, so why does Rikuo-kun have so many changes in emotion?'

Tomori began to feel that her path to becoming human was even more distant.

"Rikuo-kun, do you also like collecting these animal cards? I have many similar notebooks at home, and I've collected the complete set! Also, if you like collecting animal cards, do you like penguins?"

When Takamatsu Tomori saw someone who seemed to share her interests, her words came out like a rapid-fire string, and a blush appeared on her small face.

"Rikuo-kun, after lunch, can you accompany me to the Astronomy Club? I also want to show you my collection."

Rikuo looked at the Little Penguin's excited appearance and couldn't refuse. At the same time, he also displayed all his cards separately.

'If it's just looking, there shouldn't be any problem, probably.'

"Of course, Tomori. Let's go after we finish eating. You can look at my collection first."

The Little Penguin picked up four cards, flipping them back and forth, feeling like a child who had discovered something new, full of curiosity.

"Rikuo-kun, why are the animals inside all locked up? Are the Ace and King of Spades both beetles? Does the King look more imposing? And there's only one Hearts card, and the animal on it... is it a human?"

"The Ace and King of the corresponding suit are the same creature. The Ace represents the family of the corresponding creature, and the King represents the strongest genus within that family. Hearts are not special, it just so happens that I only have one. The 2 of Hearts is the most special. Although it is the lowest rank, it is the final winner. Although only humans are not animals... Hmm, no, humans are also animals."

Although Tomori didn't quite understand, her eyes, fixed on the 2 of Hearts, seemed to be pondering something.

"Can you trade the 2 of Hearts to me, Rikuo-kun?"

"No, Tomori."

Rikuo's expression became serious. Because of the side effects of the rider system before, he felt that if the corresponding card were used, there would definitely be consequences. Since he had this risk even with his Rider Fusion Rate, it was impossible to let this hidden problem appear on others, especially people he knew.

"Is, is that so?"

Tomori was startled by Rikuo's sudden serious and solemn demeanor, but she didn't feel the dissatisfaction of a treasure being stolen from his emotions; rather, it was pure concern and friendliness.

"Since Rikuo-kun doesn't want to give it to me, then forget it."

Seeing Tomori's obedient yet dejected look, Rikuo sighed lightly.

"Forget it. If there's an opportunity in the future, I'll lend it to you for a while."

"Really? Rikuo-kun is indeed very kind."

Rikuo decided that if he had the chance, he would first try the 2 of Hearts to confirm the extent of its side effects, and then see if he could lend it to Tomori.

"Tomori, you really shouldn't call someone like me kind. It wouldn't be good if it was misunderstood again. After all, my reputation in class and so on..."

"But Rikuo-kun is truly very gentle."

Looking into Tomori's pure, big eyes, Rikuo couldn't argue further.

'It seems that once the ethereal girl makes up her mind about something, it's very difficult to change.'

In her eagerness to show Rikuo her collection, Tomori ate much faster than usual, quickly finishing lunch and taking Rikuo to the Astronomy Club.

...

The midday sun was like melted butter, thickly spread over every corner of the campus. It was spring now, so there was no cicada chirping in the treetops, nor was the sunlight overly scorching; it was the most comfortable season of the year.

In the classroom, several students were napping at their desks; in the hallway, several boys were running and playing. Although there was a school rule against running in the corridors, what teenager in puberty had so many concerns? Teenagers in puberty only wondered why lunch break was never long enough?

Our Sakiko-sensei was currently sitting on a bench on the school playground, having lunch. The golden sunlight spilled onto her moon-like blue hair, like the sun and moon reflecting each other. But in this beautiful scene, no one could approach. The moon, once the closest, had begun to escape alone.

"Rikuo-kun, it's just ahead."

Hearing Takamatsu Tomori's voice, the moon turned its head and saw the sun and the star that once gave her courage going together to the old shadows of the past. Sakiko felt a hint of coolness brought by the spring breeze.

"I just mentioned Tomori this morning, and their relationship is already this good by noon?"

The moon saw the star and the sun, who had regained their courage, but the moon turned to its dark side, hiding its tears.

"How cunning, how enviable..."

Chapter Text

Sakiko watched Rikuo and Tomori walk towards the Astronomy Club, not moving, just continuing to deal with her bento.

Even though it was all food she would like, no matter how she looked at it, it was just mechanical eating for survival.

“Speaking of which, Rikuo-kun is also eating the same bento, I wonder if he will like it…”

…

The Astronomy Club sounded like a big place, but in reality, it was just a small room of about ten square meters.

Tomori took out her stationery box from the Astronomy Club, and when she opened it, various penguin-themed band-aids were revealed inside.

“This is a Chinstrap Penguin; it has a pattern on its face like a beard… This is an Adelie Penguin; a Gentoo Penguin.”

Hearing Takamatsu Tomori in front of him talk endlessly about her collection, the first thing that comes to his mind when hearing “penguin” is probably that thing.

“Do you buy QQ coins?”

Tomori’s excited expression subsided a bit, but the enthusiasm in her eyes did not diminish.

“What are QQ coins? Are they related to penguins?”

“Um, Tomori, in China, penguins are an invincible force. Let me give you an example, aren't dragons very strong creatures?”

Tomori nodded slightly, her eyes full of inquiry.

“But in Journey to the West, dragons are even used as food by gods and demons. In Nezha, dragons are used as stepping stones. But penguins are different.”

Tomori’s eyes seemed to be glowing; was the creature she liked also a dazzling existence in the eyes of the Chinese people?

“Penguins have never lost. From the beginning of Chinese history to the present day, penguins have never been defeated.”

Watching Rikuo speak eloquently as if it were a serious matter, Tomori looked at Rikuo with adoring eyes.

“Rikuo-kun is amazing, he knows so much! And Penguin-chan is amazing too! But did penguins exist in ancient China? It seems that dragons didn't exist either. Anyway, they're all so amazing.”

“That's right, penguins are practically invincible in China. Tomori, just remember that.”

Rikuo made a solemn decision, leaving no room for defiance.

However, Rikuo had noticed something when Tomori opened the stationery box; a blue light emanated from the bottom of the stationery box.

“Rikuo-kun, it’s not just band-aids, I also have another collection here.”

Tomori took the source of the blue light from the bottom of the stationery box.

“Tomori, don’t touch it!”

“Huh?”

Tomori tilted her head, looking at Rikuo in confusion.

“How did you get this card?”

Tomori looked at the suddenly anxious Rikuo, but she didn’t feel scared.

Because after a series of events, Tomori gradually understood Rikuo’s personality.

Rikuo would only show such a serious expression when there was a crucial problem.

“I saw it when I was collecting pebbles by the stream, and because I saw that the animal on it was a polar bear, and polar bears like cold environments, I put it together with the penguins. I originally wanted to use it to trade for that 2 of hearts human card from you.”

‘Although Tomori’s actions are quite cute, putting a polar bear among penguins, what kind of dark humor is this? Polar bears eat penguins!’

‘And it’s actually the 6 of clubs - Blizzard Polar, which is a means of elemental enchantment? Among cards of the same tier, Clubs are generally the strongest, perhaps not clearly reflected in the higher-tier cards like 10, J, Q, and K. But as the 6 of clubs that Kamen Rider Leangle uses every time he transforms, its strength is undeniable. Its freezing ability has played a significant role in attack, defense, and control.’

Although Rikuo had a little scheme in his heart, his words were still serious.

“Tomori, this card is very dangerous, can you give it to me? As for…”

“Yes.”

Rikuo originally wanted to make some promise, but the girl didn’t seem to want to continue listening.

But looking at Tomori holding up the stationery box, waiting for Rikuo to take the card, Rikuo sighed.

“Tomori, this card is a very special thing, although…”

“If Rikuo-kun finds it inconvenient to explain, then tell me later, and of course, it’s okay if you don’t tell me. I was going to give you this polar bear card anyway.”

Rikuo saw that Tomori had actually interrupted him repeatedly and couldn’t help but laugh.

“Tomori, Sakiko said you always wanted to become human, but I feel, you have already become human.”

“Is that so? But…”

This time it was Rikuo’s turn to interrupt Tomori, and he spoke with a serious expression.

“Being able to clearly see a friend’s state; understanding others’ feelings; thinking for others; feeling sad for a friend when she is sad; having things you are interested in; having things you pursue; having someone you want to apologize to; having trustworthy friends. If this doesn’t count as human, then what am I?”

Tomori listened to Rikuo’s precise and encouraging words, and her golden eyes gradually became hazy.

Her small hand gently wiped her eyes.

The sunlight shining through the crystal tears, though still misty, warmly illuminated her entire face.

‘So I was already human? Rikuo-kun, you truly are Saki-chan’s friend. Truly… kind, indeed.’

“Everyone has their own way of living, their own preferred way of life. If someone doesn’t recognize Tomori, Tomori can tell me, and I will make them recognize her.”

Tomori cried for a long time.

She felt that she hadn’t cried like this even when Sakiko left, but this time was different.

In Tomori’s impression, Sakiko was like the moon; she was the first to make her feel light, the first to make her feel hope of becoming human, and the first to have a friend.

But she was also as noble as the moon; though close and warm, she was still out of reach.

And Rikuo was like the sun.

Though still distant, it was because he was afraid of burning others.

Though he resided in the nine heavens, he would burn himself to bring warmth to all living beings.

Though there would be times when he set, he remained bright from beginning to end.

Tomori stopped crying, and her golden pupils were no longer hazy.

“Rikuo-kun, can you be my friend for life?”

“A lifetime is too long, I think ten thousand years is better.”

“Hmm, ten thousand years? But we can’t live that long.”

“Then let’s reluctantly settle for a lifetime.”

Tomori looked at Rikuo saying strange things with a serious expression, and she broke into a smile through her tears.

“Rikuo-kun, you are still very strange.”

“It’s good to be strange. There are over 8 billion humans, how boring would it be to be so monotonous? By the way, after school, I’ll show you something interesting.”

“Hmm, since Rikuo-kun says it’s interesting, then it should be fine.”

Rikuo thought for a moment and still felt that directly accepting Tomori’s card was not good, so he decided to take Tomori to test the card’s effect after school.

‘As a “radio wave girl,” Tomori’s acceptance of such things should be much stronger.’

“Then it’s settled.”

Chapter Text

The sun will eventually set, and Gawain should also avoid the limelight.

As I said before, time flies when you study hard. If it doesn't fly, find your own reason: are you studying hard?

Soon it was 3:30 PM. Students from the go-home club were already discussing what games to play tonight, while Sakiko had to go to her part-time job. Looking at Soyo at the school gate, Sakiko felt her mood for the day hit rock bottom.

'Why do I have to do this? Can't you give me some time to prepare?'

Sakiko had been off work for two days without going to her part-time job, but she felt unusually tired today.

"Is that the manager? This is Togawa Sakiko. It's like this, I might be late today..."

"Is that so? You've already been absent for two days, and now you want to be late? Is your work attitude only this much? You don't need to come to the company anymore. This month's salary, after processing three absences, will be sent to your account."

After speaking, the manager hung up the phone.

Unlike the previous interruptions, the manager's interruption of Sakiko's topic was simply merciless. Of course, the salary would still be sent, but that was because it's a society governed by law, and the manager didn't want too much trouble. Moreover, the penalty for a part-timer's absence had already drastically reduced Sakiko's pay.

"...Alright then, consider it a holiday for myself?"

Sakiko reluctantly comforted herself, walking dejectedly to the lunch bench and sitting down, silently watching Tomori and Rikuo walk out of the school gate together.

"I was here first, though."

Sakiko didn't know which side she was referring to, or perhaps both?

...

No one knows about this tragedy in the universe.

Do you all know RiNG?

It's 7 kilometers away from Haneoka.

It's Tokyo's 27.03 billionth livehouse.

Oh! Who is patrolling RiNG?

That's right! It's Shiina Taki.

She is 156cm tall, which is 56cm taller than 100cm.

She is the invincible pressure monster.

Does everyone know the story of Shiina Taki?

Back then, the first time we saw Shiina Taki battle the invincible Togawa Sakiko was on June 29, 2023.

Defeating the invincible Nagasaki Soyo was on June 29, 2023.

Then, on June 29, 2023, the invincible multi-headed monster Wakaba Mutsumi passed away in the episode "Haneoka's Mysterious Girl."

On June 29, 2023, Shiina Taki defeated the supposedly invincible Takamatsu Tomori!

Shiina Taki, who was patrolling RiNG (actually taking a break from her shift), discovered the tyrant Kamiyama Rikuo.

Seeing a boy next to Tomori, Taki ran over without thinking, pulled Tomori behind her, and glared fiercely at the tyrant Rikuo.

"Who are you? Why are you getting close to Tomori?"

She then immediately switched to a gentle expression, looking at Tomori.

"Tomori, are you alright?"

Again, she switched back to a fierce expression, looking at the tyrant Rikuo.

"Who are you? Is there something you need?"

However, before Rikuo could speak, Tomori pulled Taki's arm.

"Rikuo-kun is my lifelong friend."

"Huh?"

The invincible Shiina Taki fell, thanks to Rikuo.

...

Hearing Tomori's slow explanation, Taki reluctantly believed that Tomori wasn't being threatened or anything. But her gaze towards Rikuo was still unfriendly.

'How could Tomori know a boy? She was with me just yesterday!'

She still had a stern face, her brows slightly furrowed, and a hint of displeasure flashed in her pink eyes. Her lips were slightly pursed, showing a stubborn curve.

'Although Taki looks a bit fierce, her intentions are actually good. It's just that family reasons have led to her rather extreme personality.'

After Tomori finished explaining to Taki, she also looked at Rikuo.

"Rikuo-kun, Taki is also my friend. Can I ask you to forgive her?"

"Tomori, you don't need to apologize to him. Hey, your name is Rikuo, right?"

"Yes, my full name is Kamiyama Rikuo; you can call me Rikuo."

"Anyway, what happened just now was my fault. Sorry."

Taki crossed her arms, her expression still looking a bit fierce, but her tone was noticeably softer. Of course, it wasn't because of Tomori; Taki herself is a person who distinguishes right from wrong. Although she puts equal pressure on everyone, her targets also include herself, and she won't allow herself to do wrong things. Essentially, Taki is a very kind girl.

"Alright, I accept your apology. From now on, we're friends, Shiina-san."

Taki turned her head away.

"It's not that easy to get my approval."

But then she saw Tomori's expectant eyes.

"But it's not impossible either."

'But then again, Taki is really good to Tomori.'

"Then we're friends. I'll call you Shiina from now on."

"No need, just call me Taki."

Rikuo, of course, knew that because Taki's older sister's brilliance was too strong, Taki disliked being called Shiina by others, as she always felt people were calling her sister. But Rikuo still had to observe basic etiquette.

"Hmm, that's good. Then, Rikuo-kun, can we bring Taki along?"

"Emmm, since it's Tomori's request, I guess it's not impossible?"

'Anyway, Taki will be almost inseparable from Tomori after they form a band, so she'll probably find out sooner or later, right?'

Rikuo stood with one arm crossed and the other supporting his chin, deep in thought.

"Huh? Tomori, what did you agree to with this guy?"

Taki looked at Rikuo, again showing a suspicious expression. Because Rikuo didn't have a school uniform yet (it went to meet God with the old apartment), and he is 181cm tall, which is more than a head taller than Taki. So, she subconsciously thought he was an older student or an adult.

"We agreed in the Astronomy Club to go see something with... Mmm mmm mmm..."

"It's just to show Tomori the uses of these cards, nothing major."

Rikuo patted Tomori's head, interrupting her. He was afraid that if Tomori directly repeated what he said, Taki's misunderstanding of him would deepen.

"You! How dare you cover Tomori's mouth!"

Taki clenched her fists, her eyes flashing with a fierce light.

'Even I haven't touched Tomori's head!'

"Misunderstanding, misunderstanding, it was an accident. I meant to pat Tomori's shoulder. It's just because of the height and distance."

Rikuo raised his hands, striking the most standard French military pose!

"Taki-chan, break time is over!"

Just then, Matsugi Ririko's voice came from RiNG.

"Got it, Ririko-senpai."

"If I find out you're bullying Tomori, I won't let you off!"

Taki first responded softly to Matsugi Ririko, then turned back to a fierce expression, warning Rikuo. Afterward, she jogged back to RiNG.

'Changing faces without losing points, definitely T0 in Naruto! By the way, thank you, Narita Road-san, besides Tokai Teio and Rice Shower, you're my favorite!'

"Then, Tomori , let's go together?"

"Okay, Rikuo-kun."