《Empress and Shogun in a new dawn》


 My new apartment

    In many ways, everyone would want a bright future. Get a decent job and stay out of trouble as much as possible.


    Therefore, as an ordinary citizen of course I strive for it. It''s just that, I have a few things I need to get done before I can do that.


    While reading map directions from my smartphone, I finally arrived at an apartment complex.


    ¡°It''s pretty big too, I think it''s a good idea to come to this city. ¡°


    When I entered the area inside the building, there was no elevator, only stairs to go up.


    Moreover, the paint around the apartment is also a little peeling. This place seems not very well maintained.


    While I stepped into the room I rented, I touched several parts of the wall in this apartment area.


    It didn''t take long, I arrived at the 3rd floor area. There were several doors that were tightly closed.


    At least when I counted there were about 8 doors.


    When looking for number 67, it turns out that my room is in the far corner, right next to the dividing wall.


    I walked closer to my room, starting to hear the sound of the door opening from where I was walking at this time.


    There I saw two human figures.


    "Mom, come on hurry up. I want to eat the cake. ¡°


    ¡°Wait a minute, at least let Mama lock the door first. ¡°


    ¡°ah¡­¡±


    The little boy was a little confused when he saw my face.


    The child''s mother began to look in the same direction.


    When our eyes met, I smiled as usual.


    ¡°Ano, is it true that this apartment belongs to Mrs. Kamizaki? ¡°


    "This is the place, what can I help you with? ¡°


    "Thank goodness. Actually, I''m a new occupant here in room 67. Please help in the future. ¡°


    For a moment, the woman''s face looked tense; then she, too, tried to calm herself down.


    "So you''re our new neighbor; I hope you feel comfortable here. ¡°


    ¡° I hope so; oh, I forgot to introduce myself. My name is Edamura Zaizen, and I am a freshman at Kokujou university. ¡°


    ¡°Nice to meet you too; my name is Akibayashi Touko. ¡°


    I could feel that this woman''s hands were visibly shaking as we shook hands.


    "Is this little girl your daughter Akibayashi san? ¡°


    ¡°Yes, her name is Akibayashi Kouka. ¡°


    Without realizing it, the little girl was already under me and was hugging my right leg tightly.


    " it''s warm. ¡°


    ¡°uh¡­¡±


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    It wasn''t just me who was shocked; even Akibayashi san started pulling back her daughter.


    ¡°Kouka chan, stop it. You have been rude to Edamura san. ¡°


    She started looking down at me.


    "I apologize for my daughter''s behavior. ¡°


    "You don''t have to; she''s still a kid. ¡°


    "Is that so? Thank you for understanding. ¡°


    For the first time, I saw Akibayashi san smile.


    "Besides, I think you''re in a hurry; you better take your daughter where she wants. ¡°


    "Ah, that''s right. I almost forgot about this. ¡°


    "Then I''ll excuse myself. ¡°


    I also left them where they were.


    On the other hand, the two of them started going down the apartment.


    While walking toward the shopping center area.


    The woman began to ask something to her daughter.


    ¡°Touko chan, you should be polite and not do something like that to Edamura san. ¡°


    ¡°But, that big brother looks very kind and very warm. ¡°


    "Why can Touko chan say that? Have you met somewhere before? ¡°


    "No, this is the first time I''ve seen that brother. It''s just that I feel that big brother isn''t a bad person. ¡°


    ¡° so this means you were the one who looked at the big brother first? ¡°


    "Yes, when I saw the older brother approaching. The gloomy aura from the room next to us began to feel less pronounced, and for some reason, I felt warm by myself. ¡°


    When I heard my own daughter''s words, it made me think that this young man was definitely not an ordinary person.


    ***


    When I opened my bedroom door for the first time, I immediately understood it.


    ¡°It''s a nice place and quite spacious, but if it''s stupid parties intent on rioting. I will not shy away from anyone. ¡°


    I put my bag; and lay down my body just like that on the bed.


    "Ah, feels good. Traveling from Tokyo to the city of Zairyou does take a lot of time. ¡°


    When I checked my smartphone notifications, there were dozens of messages and missed calls.


    Even though it''s only been a few minutes since I took my eyes off my smartphone.


    ¡°It seems that my sister are really angry because I just left without a word. But never mind. I also have my mother''s permission. ¡°


    I put my smartphone on the table and lay down while looking out the window.


    Suddenly my vision was blurry, and I felt sleepy.


    Then I closed my eyes for a few moments, but I immediately opened my eyes and when I realized that my room was already dark.


    "I think I overslept; it''s already late. It''s time to cook dinner. ¡°


    When I turned on the room light, the atmosphere in this room began to feel quiet.


    I had expected it; it didn''t look like a deal would happen without problems.


    I opened my bag and took some instant food while waiting for my food to be cooked.


    I turn on the tv and look for some interesting comedy shows.


    I started to hear knocking on my door.


    "Yes, please wait a moment. ¡°


    After I made sure the stove was off, I immediately opened the door.


    I could see Akibayashi san, who was in front of me.


    ¡°Ano, I overcook the miso soup a bit. If you want, I will share it with you. ¡°


    "Really, I will gladly accept. My stomach is really hungry. ¡°


    She smiled at me too.


    "I already suspected this; apart from that, are you in good condition now? ¡°


    "My body is fine; thank you for worrying about me. ¡°


    "Then don''t hesitate to ask me a few questions. ¡°


    "Then, I want to ask if this room has been empty for too long. ¡°


    Hearing my question, Akibayashi lowered her gaze for a few moments.


    As if intending to say something important, she took a few breaths.


    ¡° Not too long ago, people last occupied this room about two months ago. Do you feel uncomfortable being here? ¡°


    ¡°Of course, I feel comfortable; this room is spacious and has complete facilities. In fact, I intend to stay here as long as possible until I graduate from college. ¡°


    "I see; I hope you feel comfortable here, Edamura san. I went back first to see my daughter. ¡°


    When she said that, Akibayashi''s face turned pale again when she left me.


    When I looked back, the atmosphere in the room was getting colder.


    However, I didn''t care and started eating what Akibayashi san gave me.


    It tastes really good; luckily, I got good neighbors.


    After that, I decided to take a break.


    When I turned off the light so I could sleep quickly, the situation in this room began to look even more gloomy.


    However, I decided to just close my eyes.


    I heard a faint voice that started whispering in my ear.


    Although it doesn''t sound clear, there is a feeling of sadness and suffering.


    Where do I care about all that?


    The more I let it, the voice became clearer.


    It''s times like these that make me sick.


    Suddenly my bedroom balcony door began to open by itself, accompanied by a strong wind that blew.


    There was laughter from dozens of voices all over the room.


    When I opened my eyes, I could see the figure of a man who looked badly injured floating above me.


    With a face as if it had been in an accident, she looked at me with a disgusting smile.


    Not only that, there were many other ghosts that suddenly appeared as if welcoming me.


    Most of them do look terrible.


    As I was about to stand up, one of the ghosts was moving at high speed toward me.


    In an instant, my neck was strangled by the ghost, and while continuing to laugh, the ghost started talking.


    ¡°die or go. ¡°

 My Room

    Maybe for ordinary people, this situation sounds dangerous.


    But, I, who had been holding back my emotions from earlier, could no longer hold back my anger.


    I gripped the hand of the ghost that was strangling me; then I punched it right in the stomach of this damn creature.


    With that, the ghost bounced through the wall.


    For a moment, the ghosts fell silent when they saw me.


    However, I just snapped my fingers.


    My bedroom balcony door began to close by itself.


    When I started to stand up, I looked at all the ghosts in my room.


    However, it was one of the ghosts who started talking.


    "You can touch us. ¡°


    I punched the talking ghost while gripping its neck tightly so that the ghost couldn''t escape from me.


    "Actually, it would be much easier to finish off you all at once, but I was asked to hold back, so I decided to ignore your existence. But, since the situation was already like this. I can reply right¡­.¡±


    My red eyes started to light up, and the ghost I caught started to look scared.


    ¡°What you guys usually rely on is only humans fear. Indeed there are some of you who are capable of possessing or killing humans. But do you think you can do that to me? ¡°


    After saying that, I slammed the ghost; I caught onto the floor.


    At the same time, I kicked several ghosts that were surrounding my bed.


    The ghosts all started groaning in pain.


    "At least, if you want to enter my room, clean your feet first. ¡°


    It''s just that some of the ghosts there look confused by what I said.


    Even so, a female ghost started talking to me.


    "Actually, who are you? Are you a member of Onmyouji? ¡°


    "No, I''m not an Onmyouji. ¡°


    "Then, why can you touch our bodies? It was impossible for an ordinary person to do this. ¡°


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    "Ah, I''m just one person who happens to be able to see you from birth. That''s enough; there''s something I want to ask before I proceed with this matter any further. Do you want to go, or do you want me to drive you out? ¡°


    Hearing what I said, the ghosts laughed so loudly.


    As if all my words were just bullshit.


    Some of them even started booing me.


    "Don''t be a cocky, stupid boy. You''re just new here. What can you really do? ¡°


    ¡°Succeeding in wounding a few of us has given you some confidence; you better prepare your last words. ¡°


    ¡°You dare to challenge us all; even the Onmyouji who came here cannot do much. This is starting to sound like a joke. ¡°


    "You better see where you stand first; you''re just lucky to be there. ¡°


    This time it was my turn to smile at them.


    "You mean this useless paper? ¡°


    When I opened the carpet under me, a piece of paper had defensive spells from Onmyouji written on it.


    "So you already know that. ¡°


    However, I tore the paper right in front of them all.


    ¡°I don''t need this useless defense. ¡°


    This time, in a quick attack, I landed a punch to the chin of one of the other male ghosts.


    His head, which was already bleeding again, spurted out a lot of blood.


    "You idiot, it''s time to accept your consequences. ¡°


    The ghosts simultaneously started attacking me.


    I reverse their attacks with the Aikido skills I have.


    Because the sound is quite loud from my battle, this is starting to bother my room neighbors a bit.


    "Mama, I heard a voice from the direction of the previous man. What is he doing? ¡°


    ¡°Ah, I previously gave the food to that man. Maybe he was packing his things. ¡°


    "Eh, is that man going too? ¡°


    " I think so. ¡°


    From the other side of the room, the sound of my battle started to sound faint.


    That''s because I have managed to beat all the ghosts that are here.


    I also sat on a pile of ghosts that I had arranged in such a way.


    " Even though I just want to rest, why did it become like this? ¡°


    One of the ghosts lying down began to rise; he flew while trying to escape from there.


    However, I only sighed when I saw his actions.


    It didn''t take long before the ghost''s head hit the wall.


    ¡°Eh, why don''t I penetrate solid objects? ¡°


    ¡°You can still do it. ¡°


    Ghosts instead try to touch some of the tables and other furniture.


    "You''re right; I can penetrate it. Not that, why I can not penetrate the walls of this room. ¡°


    "That''s because I have restrained you from this room. ¡°


    ¡°Hah, you created a barrier. Are you really Onmyouji? ¡°


    "Is there an Onmyouji who even fights barehanded without using a talisman? ¡°


    The ghost looked at me with a confused expression.


    It''s just that I realized that one ghost intended to attack me from behind.


    I threw the ghost towards the ghost whose head had hit the wall before.


    ¡°Fighting older people is really annoying because you don''t know when to give up. ¡°


    As I started to walk closer to the two ghosts, the ghost I threw started talking.


    ¡°Even though you can beat us like this, we will return with much stronger friends. Our revenge will be more terrible than you can imagine. ¡°


    However, I just smiled back while clutching the ghost''s head tightly.


    ¡°Just bring all your allies; I''ll show them something interesting. Besides, since I''ve heard of your plans after this, I better have to take care of you guys as soon as possible. ¡°


    ¡°If you intend to seal us, then it will be useless. Because of grudges and curses, we will continue to follow you. ¡°


    The other ghosts started laughing and kept chanting curses at me.


    ¡°That''s a good thing; curse me as you, please. However, I will ensure that your souls will suffer eternal suffering without any time to regret. ¡°


    My smile grew wider, making the ghost beside me take a few steps back.


    "Are you really human? ¡°

 Ghost

    The retreating ghost began to tremble in fear.


    "Now, you only have two choices."


    I stomped my right foot once, and a black hole appeared in front of me with hundreds of black hands emerging to pull the ghost whose head I gripped.


    "Enter Yomi while enduring all the torments, or..."


    I snapped my fingers once, and my balcony door opened, revealing numerous youkai already present there.


    "Become slaves to the youkai forever, even though I''m sure you''ll become their food. Look, they seem salivating at your lost souls."


    Instantly, the ghosts here started screaming in fear, the panic making the sounds from inside the room even louder, though I was certain it sounded like a malfunctioning cassette.


    "Now, make your choice..."


    As I was about to plunge the ghost I held into Yomi, I heard fearful voices from behind.


    "We beg your forgiveness, please forgive us."


    When I turned around, all the ghosts prostrated towards me.


    "Heh, this is not interesting. I thought you harbored resentment and wanted to curse me forever."


    "We will lift it soon. Please forgive us."


    Some black auras emerged from my body.


    "Even if you didn''t do that, I can cleanse the curse you bestowed. So, what do I gain by forgiving you?"


    For a moment, the ghosts looked confused upon hearing me.


    After whispering to each other, they had made a decision.


    "We will give you everything we have."


    "Do you even have anything valuable?"


    "Although not much, I believe there are a few benefits I can offer you, sir."


    "What can I do? Because I''ve promised not to cause a big commotion in my friend''s territory, I''ll accept your offer."


    I threw the ghost I was holding towards the ghosts who were prostrating.


    "Thank you for your kindness, sir."


    I snapped my fingers to close the black hole I created. On the other side, I spoke to the Youkai outside.


    "Unfortunately, there''s no party for now. You may leave."


    The Youkai looked disappointed, but they started disappearing on their own.


    As I looked at the line of ghosts in front of me, one thing made me happy.


    "It seems all of you were once humans, surely you all have immense grudges, leading your souls to become so tainted."


    "We indeed hold grudges, but we still can''t exact revenge."


    "From what I know, you often terrorize all the new occupants of this room. However, after seeing your attitudes earlier, I''m confident that your targets of revenge are not the owner of this apartment or the person living in this room."


    "Actually, we have different revenge goals. It''s just that this place has become a gathering spot for us."


    "So, while gaining energy, you continue to resist other spirits. However, you must realize that this place doesn''t belong to you alone."


    "We understand."


    "Yes, as long as I stay here, you must not engage in any harmful actions. But if I leave or the apartment lease expires, I don''t mind if you intend to draw energy from the fear of others."


    "Uh..."


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    For some reason, the ghosts looked surprised.


    "Do you understand?"


    "Yes, sir."


    "Good. Before I release all of you, there''s one more thing I want to ask. Who was the one who appeared behind me earlier and frightened Akibayashi-san?"


    Some of the ghosts began to look at each other, and shortly after, a young male ghost stood among the crowd in front of me.


    "That was me."


    "What is your purpose in doing that?"


    "I was just doing what I usually do."


    "So, do you also do the same to everyone living here?"


    "Yes."


    "From now on, stop it. I don''t care about your actions outside this place. At least, ensure life here is like in a normal apartment."


    "If you say so, then I will do that."


    "Good, you may leave."


    "Thank you."


    Among the many ghosts who said similar things, eventually, they disappeared on their own.


    With this, I could enjoy my first night of sleep comfortably.


    The next day, as usual, I was about to go to my campus to attend the admission ceremony. Just as I was about to lock my room door, I could see Akibayashi coming out from the next room with his daughter.


    "Good morning, Akibayashi-san."


    "Yes, good morning, Edamura-san."


    "It seems this place is indeed worth living in; the price is affordable for a student like me."


    "Eh, you feel that way?"


    Rather than paying attention to Akibayashi, I was a bit surprised by his daughter''s statement.


    "I heard loud noises earlier. Were you scared at that time?"


    Seeing this, Akibayashi-san started covering his daughter''s mouth for a moment.


    "Ahahaha, I had a little nightmare, so I fell off my bed a few times. Was the sound really that loud?"


    The girl just nodded.


    "Sorry, Edamura-san. My daughter is a bit sensitive to loud sounds, so she starts saying strange things."


    "It''s okay; besides, I don''t really believe in anything mystical or the existence of ghosts. If they really exist, their presence would surely make people uncomfortable living in a place."


    Akibayashi-san fell silent upon hearing my words.


    "I mean, I do accept their existence. But until now, I haven''t seen them directly, so it''s not real, hahaha."


    "So Edamura-san thinks like that. I hope you always stay optimistic about it."


    "Thank you, Akibayashi-san, but I don''t feel anything strange. So, there''s nothing to worry about."


    Even so, he seemed puzzled by my statement.


    "That''s good."


    "In that case, I''ll go ahead."


    "Right, sorry for taking your time."


    "It''s okay; I''m glad to have a considerate neighbor. I''ll be going then."


    "Yes."


    Right after leaving the apartment, I headed to the campus. At the nearest bus stop, I began to board the bus that happened to arrive at the same time. When I entered, there weren''t many people on the bus, just a few students and elderly individuals. This was normal for a small town in the middle of the main island of Japan.


    As I sat down, I could feel some curious spirits on the bus approaching me. When our eyes met, the crowd of entities started talking.


    "Can you see us?"


    However, I remained silent.


    "Turns out it was just a coincidence."


    Just before the young man''s spirit began to turn around, I moved my fingers and wrote something with ink-like spiritual energy. A light that only the spirits could see began to shine.


    "Onmyouji? Please forgive me. Until now, I haven''t committed any crimes."


    Suddenly, the man started kneeling in front of me, along with other spirits on the bus.


    I wrote a few more sentences to them. As they read my new writings, they began to look at me courageously.


    "Alright, Onmyouji-sama, we will do it."


    My fingers moved again to write some more. This time, disappointment appeared on the faces of the spirits there.


    "We can''t do it; our souls are still trapped on this bus. There''s nothing we can do to resolve this issue."


    Normally, I could send them to the spirit realm for judgment. However, if their souls were still here, I felt the outcome would be very clear.


    I decided to speak as quietly as possible.


    "If you truly carry out what I''ve instructed, I''ll make sure that after you fulfill your task, you will get a second chance."


    "Is that true, Onmyouji-sama?"


    Happy expressions started to appear on the faces of the spirits.


    "Yes, I promise on my name. However, I can''t tell you about my true identity. I will answer all your concerns when everything is completed."


    "Understood, Onmyouji-sama, we will carry out your tasks wholeheartedly."


    "Thank you."


    A few moments later, the bus arrived at my destination, the campus gate. As soon as I exited the bus, I raised my right hand to bid farewell to the spirits still inside the bus. The gloomy atmosphere that initially surrounded the bus began to change for the better.


    When I looked at the campus area, my first impression was something ordinary. An area that was quiet and not crowded. Perhaps because it was not yet the start of the new academic year, there were only a few students attending classes. However, there were some people participating in extracurricular activities.


    Although it was a small town, the campus environment was quite spacious. It seemed like engaging in various activities would be suitable here.


    As my gaze was fixed on the incoming emails on my phone, I unintentionally got lost.


    "This is strange. I followed the directions in the email, but why am I in front of the language faculty library instead?"


    I better sit down and open the map on my phone.


    "I should only need to follow the signs; I think I''ll get there quickly."


    As I started to assess my surroundings, the place was truly deserted¡ªa perfect spot for relaxation.


    Instead of sitting on the provided chairs, I chose to sit on the grass beneath a large tree, a bit far from the library entrance. While placing my bag down, I began to relax as much as possible.


    My phone started vibrating. I guessed it was a follow-up email from the person who summoned me here. As I reached for my bag to retrieve my phone, someone called out to me.

 Senpai

    "Excuse me, may I sit on the other side?"


    "Uh, sure, go ahead."


    The woman surprised me; how did she suddenly appear near me?


    "Thank you."


    The woman genuinely sat on the other side of where I was leaning. Although I was curious why she chose to sit in a somewhat dirty place rather than a normal seat, my current priority was to respond to the incoming email.


    As I intended to open the email, the girl spoke again.


    "Are you a new student?"


    "Yes, I just entered here."


    "You came a day early for this year''s admission ceremony."


    "I did get that notice, but there''s something I need to take care of."


    "Oh, what is it?"


    I might not care about other people''s curiosity, but at least I had to make a good impression so that my campus life wouldn''t be problematic in the future.


    "I received an email from someone claiming to be the dean, and I was asked to meet her today."


    "From the dean, you say. Who is the sender?"


    The girl seemed to think I was bragging or something. I just showed her the contents of the email.


    "The sender''s name is Hirashima Rina. Initially, I was surprised that the dean of this campus is a woman."


    The girl nodded.


    "Hirashima Rina is indeed the dean of this campus, and this email is really from her. So why didn''t you meet her immediately and ended up here?"


    "Actually, I got lost, so I ended up here."


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    "You got lost even though you were given a location map in the email?"


    "Yes."


    The girl then turned her face away, and I heard a faint laugh, though she tried not to laugh.


    "Alright, I''ll take you there. The situation won''t be good if you don''t arrive soon."


    "Ehhh, is the dean of this campus really strict and stern?"


    "Even more than that, especially since she''s a busy person with little free time."


    The girl then stood up and led the way. However, I just realized that she looked very beautiful. Long black hair and eyes equally dark. Being teased by a beautiful girl and then helped by her seemed like some kind of gift prepared by fate.


    "Can I ask you a few things?"


    "Sure."


    "Did you enter through a special route?"


    "No, I passed the exam like the regular route."


    "Why did you choose this campus?"


    "I just wanted to find a peaceful place to complete my studies."


    "It seems like you chose the right place. Where are you from?"


    "Tokyo."


    "This is surprising. Why did you choose to move here?"


    "Let''s just say I got tired of the daily routine, and besides, there''s nothing wrong with choosing a nice place like this."


    "Is that so? So, it''s purely your desire that stems from boredom."


    Rather than having a conversation, I felt more like I was being interrogated.


    "Senpai, what about you? What''s your reason for choosing this campus?"


    "Eh, why are you suddenly calling me senpai?"


    "Of course, because of senpai''s knowledge and our previous conversation."


    "I could also be a new student who happened to know about this campus area."


    I had already guessed this answer.


    "New students certainly wouldn''t know the email from the dean. Moreover, senpai''s habits also feel a bit unique to me."


    The girl turned around and began pinching my cheek with both of her hands.


    "Is there something wrong with my favorite spot?"


    "No, not at all."


    "Oh my, even though you''re still a new student, you''re being impolite to your seniors."


    Her pouting face was really cute.


    "I just sat in a place I thought was perfect for napping."


    The girl started pinching my cheek again.


    "Heh, so you think I''m a lazy girl who likes to nap under a tree, huh?"


    "No-no, I didn''t say that at all."


    "But you must be thinking that, right?"


    Even though I shook my head, she seemed to still not believe me.


    "Not at all, in fact, I consider you a very beautiful senpai."


    "Want to be forgiven?"


    "I''m just being honest; senpai is indeed very beautiful. I''m just grateful that senpai pays a lot of attention to a junior like me."


    "Sigh, of course, as a good senpai, I have to do that."


    Although she was a bit grumpy, she seemed to be a girl who could speak honestly.


    Along the way, Senpai began explaining some building names that we passed by. Until finally, we arrived at the building with the highest floor.


    "So, this is the campus rectorate."


    "Even though the place is so conspicuous like this, you still got lost."


    "Hehehe, sorry."


    "Follow me."


    "Okay, senpai."


    As I continued to follow her, Senpai walked towards the elevator. Although I noticed that some staff and other students were looking at us, I tried my best to ignore their gazes. Senpai then attached a card to the third elevator door that read "staff only."


    "I didn''t expect there to be some kind of access even just to the rector''s room."


    "Of course, anything related to permissions or requests is needed. After starting active classes, you will also have a card like mine. Take care of this card, don''t lose it."


    "Understood, senpai."


    We took the elevator, and Senpai pressed the top button.


    "Before we arrive, there''s something else I want to ask."


    "What is it?"


    "Before this, have we ever met?"


    "No, I think this is our first meeting."


    I indeed didn''t remember her face and didn''t know her at all.


    "Is that so? I guess it''ll be fine."


    For some reason, she started to breathe a sigh of relief.


    "Is there anything bothering you, senpai?"


    "Not at all, besides, you don''t need to know about my problems."


    Her annoying attitude surfaced again.


    "Even though I can''t help with anything right now, don''t hesitate to talk to me. Because I owe senpai a favor."


    "No need, I''m just doing my duty."


    The elevator beeped, and the door began to open. What I saw was a special room filled with luxurious items and many things like statues and books.


    "Follow me."


    "Okay."


    As I followed Senpai, we reached a door in the corner of the room.


    "I can only accompany you this far. Remember to behave as politely as possible and don''t cause any trouble. Understand?"


    "Okay, senpai, thank you very much for everything."


    "You''re welcome, then I''ll go back."


    "Wait a minute, we haven''t introduced ourselves yet."


    "Let''s do that another time; your time is more valuable now. See you again."


    Senpai disappeared from my view.


    I began to take a deep breath, preparing to face the last boss.

 First Destiny

    I knocked on the door while waiting for a response.


    "Just come in; it''s not locked."


    Her answer was friendlier than I expected, so I entered.


    "It''s unusual for you to knock, Rie..."


    Before she finished her sentence, the middle-aged woman, busy with her work, started to look confused at me.


    "Um, my name is not that."


    "Eh, are you Edamura Zaizen-kun?"


    "Yes, that''s me. Is this with Hirashima Rina?"


    "Yes, it''s me. Although I''ve seen you in photos, meeting in person is indeed different."


    The rector stood up and approached me.


    "It seems you''ve grown much better than I imagined."


    "Um, is there something wrong?"


    "No, please have a seat. Do you want a cold or hot drink, or anything, I can prepare."


    "Sorry, I don''t want to trouble you, Rektor. It''s better not to prepare anything."


    Of course, I didn''t dare to give orders to the person in charge of the institution I belonged to.


    "If you don''t want to ask, I''ll just make your favorite hot chocolate. Wait a moment."


    "Ehhh..."


    How did she know my favorite drink when I didn''t mention it in my application documents here?


    It didn''t take long for my hot chocolate to be served.


    "Let me guess, you didn''t read my email and ended up getting lost?"


    I could only stay silent while smiling upon hearing that.


    No wonder you could get here so quickly; thank you for coming."


    "Of course, I would come."


    "Even if you didn''t, I might have come to your place myself."


    So, this is what Senpai meant earlier; it seems the rector of this campus is indeed intimidating. However, I realized there was something she wanted.


    "What does someone as important as you need to call me at this time?"


    The woman just sat down and started sipping her drink.


    "It seems you don''t like small talk."


    "I''m just nervous meeting with you."


    Of course, this was because she only wore a blazer and a short skirt, without wearing anything else or stockings.


    She was very attractive, so I thought I should finish this business as quickly as possible.


    "Ah, I see. Do you want to sleep with me?"


    "Huh?"


    I didn''t expect her to read my thoughts so quickly.


    "I don''t mind."


    "Um, you shouldn''t say that to me. Your reputation will be at stake."


    As she finished her drink, her gaze focused on me.


    "My purpose in calling you here is that I intend not to become your enemy."


    "Um, what is the rector talking about?"


    "Edamura Zaizen, there''s no point in pretending like that. I already know your background and everything."


    This time, I lowered my head; for some reason, a small smile began to appear on my face.


    "How far did you investigate about me?"


    "I don''t know much about anything else, but I just want to be honest with you from the beginning."


    "If that''s what you expect, then I will consider you my ally. So, is there anything else you want to talk about?"


    "No, I just wanted to convey that."


    This time, I was confused about this woman''s intentions.


    "Is that all?"


    "Yes, that''s all. Besides, you don''t need to be too formal with me. Just call me Rina."


    "Which student calls their university''s rector by their first name directly? At least I should add an honorific title."


    Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.


    "Then, you should call me by my name when it''s just the two of us like this."


    It seemed like she intended to tease me; she had been showing off her body curves since earlier.


    "Alright, Rina-san."


    "Good. Is there anything else you want to ask?"


    "What is it?"


    While I was trying to drink, she quickly answered.


    "When do you intend to marry my daughter?"


    I choked upon hearing that.


    "Huh? What do you mean, Rina-san?"


    "Don''t pretend. You''ve been eyeing her since the first time you came here, right?"


    I shook my head repeatedly to express my denial.


    "Of course not, and besides, I don''t even know who your daughter is."


    "Eh?"


    Why was she the one surprised now?


    "I''m just being honest."


    "Then, why did you enter with Rie-chan''s ID?"


    "Rie-chan?"


    For a moment, I realized that she was the girl who brought me here.


    "You really don''t know about it?"


    "I did meet a fellow student who brought me here, but when I asked for her name, she asked me to see you immediately."


    Hearing that, Rina-san laughed.


    "Hahaha, that cheeky girl. But it will be your task to discipline her. Can I say you two already know each other?"


    "No, and I''m not even sure if she knows my name."


    So she was indeed Rina-san''s daughter; it made sense when I showed her the previous email.


    "Why did you ask for Rie-chan''s help if you didn''t know each other?"


    "I just happened to meet her when I got lost, and she kept asking about many things without explaining who she really was."


    "That''s her nature, as I said, she''s my daughter. Her name is Hirashima Rie; get along with her."


    "Hirashima Rie, I''ll remember that."


    "I''m honored that someone like you remembers my daughter."


    "Please don''t think of me that way because right now, I''m just a student at the university you oversee."


    After finishing my hot chocolate, I stood up.


    "If there''s nothing else to discuss, then I''ll take my leave."


    However, Rina-san started walking towards me.


    "You just moved here; let me show you around the area."


    "No, I''ll explore and find my way around on my own."


    Upon hearing my answer, Rina-san sat right next to me.


    I started to smell the pleasant scent of Rina-san''s perfume, and the sound of her breathing was clear.


    With a single pull from Rina-san, I fell into her lap.


    "You know, I don''t have many chances for this. So, want to do it here or at my place?"


    "Um, Rina-san?"


    "I can''t wait any longer, so let''s do it."


    ***


    In the usual evening, I went for a jog on the outskirts of the city.


    My name is Uematsu Nanami, a girl from the town of Zairyou.


    Having graduated from high school in this town, I continued on to the nearest university, Kokujou University.


    As this is just a small town surrounded by sea and mountains, there isn''t much that stands out about this place.


    However, there is one thing that definitely happens.


    From a distance, I saw a middle-aged man about to enter a small alley.


    But, there''s a youkai figure following him from behind.


    "This can''t be allowed, as a member of the Uematsu Onmyouji family. I must fulfill my duty."


    With the help of spirit energy and the acceleration of shikigami deployment, I ran at high speed to eliminate the youkai.


    When I reached where the man was, I could see he was about to ingest some kind of seemingly dangerous pill.


    "What are you..."


    Just before the man started talking, I began striking towards the youkai I spotted.


    "You cursed Onmyouji, trying to interfere with me."


    The youkai noticed my presence.


    As a result, my strikes were successfully evaded by this small youkai.


    I pulled a shikigami paper from my jacket pocket and aimed it at the youkai.


    The youkai quickly burned without leaving a trace.


    I diverted my gaze to the man who was there before.


    "There''s no point in ending your life; seek the answers by continuing to think. That''s all I can say."


    "Hey, what do you mean?"


    I ran away from the man just like that.


    Indeed, even though I can only do this much.


    Whatever the outcome, it depends on the man''s will to live.


    "All I can do is protect humans from external influences, that''s the duty of an Onmyouji."


    I have to fight even harder to save many people.


    ***


    After making sure nothing was left behind, I intended to say goodbye to Rina-san.


    However, Rina-san, who was only covered by a blanket, grabbed my hand.


    "Why not stay here tonight?"


    "What will your daughter think if I do that?"


    "But we did it, and besides, the skills in bed exceeded my expectations. I want to do it again."


    Rina-san''s expression showed that she was ready for another round.


    "I could be exhausted if you do that, Rina-san. Besides, tomorrow I have to attend the acceptance ceremony and the first class."


    "After that, you can drop by again, right?"


    "Of course not; I''ll do it if I have some free time."


    Rina-san stood up and teased me for a while.


    Since Rina-san was very experienced, I just had to follow the flow.


    After a while, we stopped. Rina-san, who was completely naked, began covering her body with the blanket again.


    "Then I''ll go now."


    "Wait a moment, there''s something you should have."


    Rina-san handed me a card.


    "Is this some kind of payment card?"


    "This card can be used to access everything related to your studies. I''ve also given you special access. Is this enough as an initial guarantee?"


    "An initial guarantee for what?"


    "Of course, for the future. Surely, you chose Kokujou University for a reason."


    "Yes, I do have my own reasons for coming here."


    "If there''s any problem, don''t hesitate to ask for my help, because both my daughter and I will always be on your side."


    I could say that Rina-san said that with sincerity.


    Although I was quite selfish for taking advantage of the situation.


    "I''ll gladly accept it."


    "At least come here once a week, and I''ll keep all of this a secret from my daughter."


    "Alright, I promise."


    "Good, be careful on the way."


    With that, I concluded the unexpected affair for quite some time.


    After I descended from the lowest floor of the lift, the gaze of several staff members shifted towards me.


    Perhaps they thought the one who just came down was Rina-san, but of course, that wasn''t the case.


    I quickly left the rector''s building.


    After reaching the campus entrance gate, I could finally breathe a sigh of relief.


    Even so, there were still many activities going on outside the campus by the students.


    "It seems this place is not as deserted as I thought."


    I decided to head to the nearest convenience store.


    At least here, I could calm my mind.


    While choosing some drinks and snacks, there was a voice calling right behind me.


    "Zaizen."


    Of course, this surprised me.


    Only when I turned around, a girl wearing a black office lady suit and black sunglasses looked very familiar.


    "You, Maemi-chan?"


    "I already told you to call me Sakiyama-san when we''re outside."


    I received a small punch right on my head.


    "Ouch, why do you always try to hit me?"


    "It''s because you''re too stupid to understand my orders. Do you have any free time after this?"


    "No, I''m very busy."


    "No one busy chooses snacks and drinks."


    "Of course, I''m busy being lazy after this."


    "You''re quite daring. Come with me after this."


    "Where are we going again? I''ve been living at your place for a week."


    "Who allowed you to work here? If it weren''t for my help, you''d still be in your position. Anyway, come with me."


    "Fine, Maemi-chan."


    Another punch was launched at me.


    "Call me Sakiyama-san."


    "Okay, okay, Sakiyama-san. So, did you come here to buy anything?"


    "As for that, I''ll wait for you."


    "I''ve finished choosing."