《Breaking the Shackles of the Past (Ren Tao)》


 ? Chapter One: The Ghost Whisperer ?

    Disclaimer/Note:


    <u>I do not own Shaman King, all rights go to Hiroyuki Takei.</u>


    <u>I do not own the image I used to create the book cover.</u>


    Acknowledgements:


    My Amazing Editor: ImperiSan (Quotev User) - (Chapters 1-TBD)


    <hr>


    Chapter One: The Ghost Whisperer


    Cram school is a necessary evil if I want to make it through high school and be accepted into college. Under normal circumstances, I didn''t mind going. Studying was what I did in my free time. Tonight though, my concentration kept waning no matter how hard I tried to focus on the lesson.


    I experienced a deep sense of relief when the bell rang.


    "That''ll be it for today," my teacher said as everyone began to gather up their things.


    I was one of the last people to stand as the others began heading towards the door while resuming the conversations they''d started before class. Unlike many others my age, I tend to keep to myself and seldom speak unless someone asks me something. My aloof behavior doesn''t earn me brownie points with my peers. They think of me as cold and unapproachable, someone not to waste their time with. A part of me prefers it that way. It''s easier.


    Most of the people in my class were already on their way home by the time I stepped out of the building. I took in a deep breath and enjoyed the fresh night air, which was impossible to get in the city during any other time of the day. The roads were always too congested with cars as people performed errands or rushed to and from work, polluting the air with their exhaust.


    The feeling of being watched struck me moments later and made me glance around to try to find the source.


    It was a familiar sensation, one that I had nearly become accustomed to over the last several years. Although, like any sensible person, I wasn''t entirely sure what to make of it. I didn''t get a sense of foreboding, as if something terrible might happen, but I could never figure out what was causing it. And tonight was no different. As always, I came out empty-handed in my search to discover who or what it might be.


    Deciding there was nothing more I could do, I ignored it and started to make my way home with a sigh. I''d barely made it through two lights when a strange awareness of something tugging me towards it engulfed me, causing me to pause. It was calling out to me. Unable to dismiss the feeling in the pit of my stomach, I followed my instincts and allowed my feet to mechanically steer me forward. When my hand touched the cool metal of the small gate of a local cemetery, I regained my senses and let go of it as fast as I could.


    Many headstones lined the ground, some worn with time and others appearing as if they''d been carved in the last year. A towering hill with a sharp cliff edge took up the right of the area that overlooked much of the cemetery and the surrounding businesses nearby. There was a Shinto shrine at its top that could be accessed by a long set of stone steps ascending from the base of the hill. A small piece of land, somehow separated from the rest of the cliffside, was connected by a wooden bridge.


    A distinct frown appeared on my lips. "Why here of all places?"


    This wasn''t the first time I''d been led to some undisclosed location by instinct alone, but I''d never ended up at a place like this. I could only stand in front of the gate, wanting nothing more than to leave as a strong, warm breeze blew my waist-length red-brown hair forward. It was as if the wind itself desired to guide me into the cemetery. However, I kept my feet planted firmly onto the ground. The unstoppable feeling in my gut was the only thing preventing me from leaving as it tried luring me through the gate by its beguiling pull.


    There was something here I was supposed to see, something trying to seduce me into taking those final steps forward to get inside the cemetery... But I didn''t want to.


    "Himiko?"


    My purple eyes widened as I looked in the direction the voice came from.


    A boy with clean-cut sandy-brown hair was standing next to me, staring up at me with confusion in his big, light brown eyes. He was short. The top of his head barely reached the middle of my thigh. And he was someone I would recognize anywhere.


    He was my younger estranged cousin, Manta Oyamada. We were four years apart in age and had barely spoken a word to each other since he was born; my mother forbade it. I hadn''t seen him in several years, not since the last time we were together at our grandfather''s home for some sort of celebration. To say I was shocked to see him now out of all people was an understatement.


    "Manta?" I whispered, my eyebrows furrowing in confusion.


    "What are you doing here?" he asked, wording the very question that had just entered my mind.This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Collecting my composure, I spoke as I came up with an excuse. "I just happened to be in the neighborhood."


    It wasn''t like I could tell him the real reason why I was here. He would never understand.


    "But why are you at Funbari Hill Cemetery?"


    "I could ask the same thing about you."


    "I decided to take a shortcut on my way home."


    "I see."


    Who in their right mind would take a shortcut through a cemetery?! Damn it! I should have just ignored my gut feeling and gone home!


    "Aren''t you wearing a Funbari High School uniform?"


    "What?" I asked, caught a little off guard by the change of subject. My eyes moved down to the blue sailor suit school uniform I was wearing. "I... Yeah. Yeah, I am."


    "I thought you and your family lived next to grandfather in Osaka. Did you move nearby?"


    Before I could come up with a reply, the pulling sensation suddenly grew in intensity. My focus shifted away from Manta entirely as I intuitively gazed up at the piece of land the bridge led to. Whatever was calling out to me must be there. I could sense it.


    "Yeah," I uttered distractedly, somehow finding a way to respond to his question.


    As if in a trance, I opened the gate and stepped into the cemetery, completely unhindered by the doubts I had earlier. The pull was too powerful to resist. My feet had brought me over to the base of the steps before I began running up them, unable to stop myself from following my instincts once again.


    "Himiko! W-wait!" Manta called after me.


    The moment I reached the top, the feeling vanished without a trace. I came to an abrupt stop with it. Manta accidentally crashed into the back of my right leg as I attempted to regain my senses, clearly not expecting me to pause near the top of the stairs. I glanced back at him as he groaned while on the ground.


    "What are you doing?"


    Another boy spoke, saving me from needing to reply. "The stars are pretty."


    "Stars?" Manta and I questioned.


    Directed by the unknown boy to look up at the night sky, I tilted my head only to be graced with many sparkling stars across its entire surface. My eyes widened in amazement. It had been years since I''d seen them shining so brilliantly. The lights from the streets and buildings always obscured the view. They were also the last thing on my mind, given the amount of studying I did, so I rarely looked up at the sky in the first place. I didn''t want to.


    "Wow! No kidding!" Manta exclaimed.


    "I''m astonished that there''s a place left in Funbari that they can still be seen like this," I whispered, a heavy feeling threatening to enter my heart.


    Realizing an unknown boy had just spoken to us, I shifted my eyes from the stars and looked at him, pushing away the thoughts trying to enter my mind. The sight wasn''t what I expected.


    Spirits from all walks of life were gathered around a boy with neck-length dark brown hair sitting on the ground with his back to us. He was gazing up at the sky, seemingly without a care in the world based on his laid-back demeanor. A pair of orange headphones rested on top of his head, the oversized earbuds placed behind his ears. From his silhouette, he looked as if he was probably around Manta''s age. Next to him was a single headstone near the trunk of a large tree on the other side of the bridge.


    I turned pale but tried to pretend as if there was nothing around him.


    This boy couldn''t possibly be the reason I''m here, right?


    "Wait! Who are you?!" Manta shouted, also looking at him.


    The boy stood and spoke, brushing the dirt off the back of his green pants. "You came to see the stars too, right?"


    When he turned around, his dark brown eyes landed on us as he gave a relaxed smile. The loose-fitting white shirt he wore was unbuttoned, leaving his chest and stomach bare. A strange bear claw necklace hung down from his neck. Despite his surprising attractiveness, his appearance wasn''t what made me freeze and my heart race. It was the feeling of his very presence. It felt all too familiar.


    No, he can''t be.


    "Come on over," the boy said, taking a few steps towards us. "Let''s watch it with everyone."


    Everyone?


    I took a step back, an unpleasant feeling hitting the pit of my stomach full force.


    "I-It''s okay!" Manta replied nervously. "It''s kind of late already." A strained smile appeared on his lips as he continued to speak. "And by the way, isn''t your grammar incorrect? When you''re referring to three people, you don''t say everyone."


    "No, it''s everyone."


    Manta looked at him in confusion.


    "The spirits!"


    Two adult male spirits came up to him as the boy''s smile widened, and he wrapped his arms around their broad shoulders.


    Agonizing pain shot through my heart, nearly causing me to fall to my knees.


    He is. He''s a shaman, one that can see spirits and connects this world to the next.


    Manta made a strangled sound then screamed in terror. My eyes widened in surprise as he ran as fast as he could, leaving me behind while I observed his retreating form. His response threw me for a loop and concerned me.


    He couldn''t possibly see them too... could he?


    The boy gave an impressed whistle. "He sure can run fast."


    Many of the spirits laughed, taking joy and amusement from the sight.


    I have to get out of here. Now.


    My expression became guarded as I composed myself as best I could and began to head back toward the steps. I was desperate to put as much distance between the shaman boy and me as possible. And the sooner I did it, the better. I had to get away from him.


    "You didn''t run," the boy said, causing me to pause at the top of the stairs. "Can you see them?"


    "See what?" I replied, not daring to look back at him. "I don''t know what you''re talking about."


    It was best to pretend like I didn''t know, better to repress my thoughts and emotions.


    He didn''t say anything else as I started making my way calmly down the steps and out of the cemetery. I was thankful the spirits had gathered around the boy, allowing me to walk through it without seeing another one on the way out.


    This was precisely why I hated and avoided cemeteries as much as possible. It was unpleasant to see a ghost wandering near their grave. They reminded me of the ability I had and the past I''d fought tooth and nail to forget. Why did my gut have to lead me here? Why in the hell did it have to lead me to that boy? Why did I have to meet a shaman?


    The walk to my house was shorter than usual. I stopped on the front porch and took several deep breaths to calm myself. On the off chance that someone was waiting for me, I had to make sure that nothing seemed like it was amiss. Under no circumstances was anyone to find out what had happened tonight. My freedom depended on it.


    "Everything is fine," I muttered to myself. "It''s over, and nothing more will come of it. You''re over it."


    After repeating those words to myself a few more times and taking several more deep breaths, I grabbed the brass handle of the front door and opened it.


    As predicted, no one was waiting for me on the other side as I stepped into the entryway. And I was comforted by it.

 ? Chapter Two: Rumors ?

    Chapter Two: Rumors


    I was greeted by sunshine when I stepped out the door the next morning, school bag in hand.


    The weather had warmed up considerably in the last few weeks, paving the way for the summer that was just on the horizon. I wasn''t looking forward to it. I preferred the moderate temperatures of spring and fall and the unparalleled views of the cherry blossoms and bright colored leaves brought on by the changing seasons.


    If only cherry blossom season hadn''t already come and passed. I would have been tempted to take a detour on the way to school. It wasn''t like I didn''t have time.


    Like every time I walked outside, I had the distinct feeling of someone watching me and paused on the porch to look around. Unlike last night, I couldn''t linger long. The front door gave a loud creak from behind me as the person on the other side opened it. I swiftly moved onto the sidewalk and began to head toward school as fast as I could, my gaze focused on what was ahead of me.


    It was a short stroll to my school. Two buildings were located on the property; the one on the left was the High School division, and the other on the right was the Junior High. To further distinguish between the students, the uniforms of the two schools were starkly different. While mine was styled like a blue sailor suit, the girls in junior high had to sport white-colored buttoned-up shirts with green skirts. The boys in high school donned a blue military-style uniform, while their younger counterparts only had to wear white-colored buttoned-up shirts with green slacks.


    Dozens of students had already arrived before me. Some were walking to their respective buildings to get a head start, and others were huddled together as they talked animatedly with each other. I stepped through the school gate, intending to head to the building on the left.


    "Oyamada!" a boy called out from my right.


    That one word was enough to make me come to a screeching halt. Dread consumed me as I turned my attention to the two boys and girl approaching an incredibly short boy with sandy-brown hair.


    My thoughts went back to last night while I stared at his uniform.


    "Of course," I muttered with a frown as I fought off a curse that threatened to come from my lips.


    I should have realized we attended the same school when I saw Manta yesterday. It''s a miracle we haven''t bumped into each other before now... I''ll have to make sure to keep a sharp lookout for him, so I can evade him. I can''t risk another encounter between us. My mother would never forgive me. It was already a stretch to speak with him last night. I wasn''t going to push my luck.


    Knowing I should hurry before he caught sight of me, I took another step forward then froze once again as my stomach plummeted. The familiar sensation of a shaman''s presence came rushing through me and made all the muscles in my body tense. I didn''t have to search for the source. I knew who had caused it the moment I saw the brown-haired boy from last night at the corner of my eye. Everything seemed to go in slow motion as he strolled past me, the wind blowing back the long bangs framing his face.


    What in the hell is he doing here?


    I stared at him with horror, my eyes taking in his form as he grew more and more distant. He was wearing the same thing from the night before. However, just like with Manta, I hadn''t realized what his clothes had meant until now. It was the uniform for the junior high division, the very same one that Manta had on.


    No.


    Someone bumped into my stiff form hard enough I fell to the ground, taking me by surprise in my distressed state. Shrill laughter rang out while I pushed myself onto my hands and knees, my mind still racing from the boy''s unexpected appearance but now also feeling annoyed. When I looked at the offender with a glare, an unsurprising group of females was smirking back at me as they headed for the high school building. Choosing to ignore it, I looked away and picked up my bag as I stood. They were the least of my problems right now. A shaman had just transferred to my school.


    My thoughts continued to dwell on the situation even after class started. In all honesty, there were only two things I could do to deal with it. One was to inform my parents that Manta was attending the school to persuade them to transfer me. My second alternative was to disregard everything and pretend like I didn''t know who, or what, either of them was.


    I didn''t like the prospect of either choice.


    The first would unquestionably cause a disturbance even with the omission of the shaman boy''s existence. Although, he was the reason I was considering a transfer in the first place. I couldn''t foresee how my mother, or her husband, would react to the news, given their unpredictability. They were likely to take the entire situation too far to get me away from Manta. But, the other possibility would mean I stayed here for my final year of high school and risk the chance of seeing either boy every day until graduation.


    "Damn it," I mumbled to myself with a frustrated sigh while sitting at my desk.


    The bell for lunch had already rung, and everyone else was amongst their friends enjoying the break. I was by myself, barely aware of the food in front of me, still trying to figure out what to do.


    "You''ll never guess what I heard."


    "What?"


    I had to fight the urge to roll my eyes as I took a bite of my lunch.This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    There were three girls, only one of which was in my class, that had a bad habit of spreading any rumors that were going around. I''d been the main topic of their discussions more times than I wanted. The group of girls that had shoved me down this morning loved trying to make my life as miserable as possible, even if it meant spreading lies. I generally tried blocking out their conversations, finding them a waste of time. Petty gossip doesn''t interest me.


    "My little sister texted me and said that Manta Oyamada tried to convince everyone that he''s seen ghosts."


    Her amusement-filled words caused my movements to cease as I began focusing on what they were talking about.


    My suspicions about Manta when he ran off last night... they couldn''t have been correct, right?


    "What?" came the skeptical reply.


    A buzzing sound came from the desk behind me, the same one they had huddled around.


    "Who''s it from? What does it say?"


    "It''s my sister. Apparently, he''s still trying to convince them he''s seen them and claims that the new kid in their class is involved."


    "New kid?"


    "They have a transfer student. Oyamada freaked out when he saw him this morning."


    "Is he cute?"


    "I''m more curious about what Oyamada is saying. Thirteen-year-old''s aren''t my cup of tea."


    "True."


    "We could always go see what''s going on."


    The suggestion seemed to be too tempting for them to resist. All three girls promptly stood and began to walk towards the door of the room.


    I let out another sigh when they stepped into the hallway and frowned thoughtfully.


    Based on their conversation, it was safe to assume he really could see them. But... how? Why can he suddenly see them after all this time? How could our encounter with that boy be enough to awaken such a power? Mine never awakened when¡ª


    A loud bang reverberated through the room, causing me to jump in surprise. Thankfully it had also interrupted my unpleasant train of thought.


    "Himiko!" the voice of my little cousin exclaimed.


    Everyone around me fell silent as I turned pale and glanced uneasily at the front of the classroom. Manta walked farther into the room before spotting me and marching in my direction with a determined expression on his face. I knew he was here to talk. Indisputably, he planned to prove he was telling the truth about what happened last night.


    I instantly shot to my feet and ran for the back door of the classroom as fast as I could, my heart racing a hundred miles per hour. I have to get out of here. I have to get away.


    "What?!" Manta shouted in surprise. "Wait!"


    I ignored him, throwing open the door and barreling into the hallway.


    The reservations I once felt about asking my parents for a transfer were now eradicated with Manta''s appearance. There was no doubt in my mind that I needed to ask them. There was no other way to deal with the situation. I couldn''t risk something like this happening again. I couldn''t allow my thoughts to linger on him or the shaman boy anymore. None of it is my business. There''s no point in dwelling on it any longer. It''s over. I''m over it.


    My encounter with Manta became common knowledge by the end of the school day. Fed up with the snickers and stares I was getting, I stuffed my things inside my bag and stomped out of the classroom. When I reached the entrance doors of the building, I stopped and carefully scanned the courtyard through the windows for any signs of the short boy.


    "Do you need an escort, Chibana?" one of the boys nearby asked with amusement. "I wouldn''t want you to become frightened because of a midget."


    A fierce scowl formed on my face as I gave the attractive blue-eyed black-haired teenager a glare. Unaffected by my attitude, he shrugged with a laugh as he and his group of friends headed out the door.


    "Suit yourself."


    Distractions now off to the side, I focused my attention on the people outside. When I felt convinced we wouldn''t see each other, I rushed out of the building and off school property as fast as my legs could carry me.


    Instead of going home to pass the time before cram school, I walked over to the river running through the center of town and sat on its grassy edge. Taking several deep breaths, I felt myself calm down and looked out at the clear blue water in front of me.


    The place I had chosen to take solace was a tranquil spot next to the school I''d discovered some time ago. I used the area for some peace and quiet whenever I''d had a long day. No one else seemed to be interested in the location, not even the residents living nearby. It was my own not-so-secret place, where I could relax and not be bothered by anyone.


    I pulled a book from my bag and allowed myself to relax for the first time since the day began as I dived into my studies.


    "What the hell was that?!" I heard what sounded like Manta bellow a few hours later.


    I peered over my book and glanced in the direction of the noise, making sure to keep my face covered. My eyes barely caught a glimpse of the shaman boy as he rushed off the bridge overlooking the river as if in a hurry. However, I didn''t see Manta. Having every intention to disregard what I just saw, my gaze fell back onto my book.


    His voice broke through the silence once again before I could gather my thoughts. "What the hell?! I''ve lost him!"


    Wary, I looked over in his direction a second time. He was standing at the edge of the bridge, a deep scowl on his face.


    "I won''t give up that easily!" he shouted again.


    That all too familiar resolute Oyamada expression appeared on his face as he marched forward. I watched him, my body rigid until he finally disappeared from view. He never noticed me sitting nearby.


    I lowered the book to my lap and gave an exasperated sigh as I stared up at the orange sky above.


    He really is too stubborn for his own good. I hope he doesn''t end up doing something stupid in his pursuit to show everyone that he''s telling the truth. If he''s as strong-minded as his father, he''ll do anything it takes to prove his point. However, I knew first hand that it''s best to drop it. It''s impossible to unequivocally prove the existence of ghosts, and even if it wasn''t, he''s better off not trying. Nothing good would come of it.


    The walk home after cram school was even shorter than yesterday as I made my way there, determination to ask for a transfer filling every fiber of my being. I threw the door open in my haste to get inside, then nearly crashed into my mother at the base of the stairs as it slammed shut behind me. Neither of us had been expecting to see one another and stared at each other in surprise.


    My mother, Suki Hachisuka, was a beautiful woman with long silky brown hair and deep green eyes. Her blue buttoned-up silk shirt and crisp black slacks showed her profession. She was a successful businesswoman who helped run her husband''s multi-billion dollar corporation. With but a few rare exceptions, she always had an unmistakable air of confidence about her that presented itself in the way she carried herself.


    I could only stare at her. All the doubts and fears I held of her reaction, taking their unrelenting grip on my heart and assaulting my mind with a vengeance. The resolve I''d had when I walked through the door had vanished just by the mere sight of her.


    She was the first to break the silence as she composed herself. "It''s rare for you to be here for dinner during the week."


    My gaze fell to the floor as I silently nodded.


    "Go wash up for dinner."


    I repeated my actions and waited until she had passed through the doorway leading into the dining room before stepping onto the stairs.


    There''s no way I could ask for a transfer. I didn''t have the courage. I would just have to avoid Manta and the shaman boy. It was the best solution. It was the only thing I could do.

 ? Chapter Three: Image in the Mirror ?

    Chapter Three: Image in the Mirror


    Dark circles were under my eyes when I stepped onto the school grounds the following day.


    Last night had been long and arduous. I''d spent most of it working on homework while grappling with the terrible reality that Manta and the shaman boy would always be somewhere nearby. For the remainder of the year, there would be a risk of Manta barging into my classroom or of me encountering the shaman boy. I bitterly resented and dreaded it.


    I had entertained the idea of skipping school to let things cool down but decided the consequences of something like that would be too severe. My mother and her husband would become furious when they discovered the perfect attendance record I''d maintained since Junior High was destroyed. It was better to fear what other unexpected predicament might occur than to suffer their wrath.


    Several people looked in my direction as I made my way across the courtyard, then smirked or snickered to each other while huddled in their groups. The behavior continued even as I entered my classroom and sat down. No doubt it had something to do with what happened yesterday.


    "Have a rough night, Chibana?"


    The person who had spoken was the same one that teased me yesterday after school.


    He was my class president and one of the most popular guys in school, Itsuki Aikawa. For reasons I couldn''t explain, he regularly went out of his way to speak to me whenever there was a chance¡ªa brilliant smile always on his face. I suppose it was just part of his good-natured, cheerful personality to be friendly with people. If things were different, perhaps I would have allowed us to become friends.


    "What does it look like to you?" I replied with a sigh.


    "Don''t worry. I''ll make sure to protect you from the midget."


    The amusement in his voice and the absurdity of the statement caused annoyance to flare up inside of me, but I kept my mouth shut. There was no point in correcting him on his conclusion. If everyone wanted to believe I''m terrified of short people, who was I to stop them? At least the snickers and predatory smiles sent my way when I walked onto the school grounds made sense now. Everyone who disliked me must be laughing their heads off at my expense.


    "Itsuki, you''ll never guess what I saw yesterday," his friend said, breaking into the middle of our conversation as he entered the room and walked over to us.


    Aikawa turned his attention to him while I began to pull out my books.


    "Yesterday?"


    "Oyamada was beaten to a pulp by Umemiya and his gang last night."


    I paused, surprise and concern flowing through me.


    "Seriously?" Aikawa asked.


    "Yes," the girl behind me replied, eagerly jumping into their discussion. "According to my sister, he was in Funbari Hill Cemetery trying to prove he''d seen ghosts when they suddenly assaulted him."


    A curse threatened to come from my lips as I thought about how Manta had acted after school.


    That idiot. I''d feared he''d do something stupid, but managing to get himself attacked by a gang? Manta truly is too headstrong for his own good. He should have just dropped it and moved on!


    "Are you still involved with Umemiya and Sakata, Chibana?" Aikawa''s friend asked, eyeing me with suspicion.


    "Why?" I asked with a frown.


    "It''s convenient he would suddenly get thrashed by them the day you ran away from him. Did you tell them to do it?"


    "No," I replied with an unamused tone to my voice.


    I never was involved with either of them in the first place. Although it was easy to see where the misconception was coming from. Before Umemiya and Sakata graduated, there were various occasions through the years that they came to my aid when someone was bullying me at school. Their noble actions made it difficult for me to decide what to think of them, considering their well-earned reputation. I still don¡¯t understand them.The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    Aikawa¡¯s friend didn¡¯t look convinced, but the bell for class forced the conversation to an abrupt end. I moved my gaze away from him and stared at the board at the front of the classroom.


    For the rest of the morning, Manta consumed my thoughts once again. I felt concerned for him. He would only experience heartache if he continued to head down this path. But, there¡¯s nothing I could do. I¡¯m not allowed to talk to him, and I couldn¡¯t afford to be near him.


    When the bell for lunch rang, I grabbed my bento and left the classroom to be alone. There was no point in me staying, and it was safer to escape before news of Manta''s condition became widespread. Aikawa''s friend would attempt resuming our discussion, so he could pin Manta''s assault on me in front of everyone. And no matter what I said in my defense, everybody would believe whatever they wanted to. Common sense told me it wouldn''t go in my favor. I had more enemies than allies. If the accusations mounted high enough, rumors might spread outside of the school and cause trouble for me.


    How could everything be turned upside down so easily? I only wanted to be left alone. Was that really too much to ask?


    Careful to keep a close eye out for Manta and the shaman boy, I stepped outside the air-conditioned building. The exposed skin on my hands, legs, and face, warmed by the sun shining down from the clear blue sky. I started walking forward while others gathered in their usual spots for lunch, a gentle breeze blowing through my hair. No one seemed to notice me approaching an old storage building near the soccer field at the edge of the property. I hid behind it whenever the day proved too challenging for me to deal with others. It was the only place I could find solace at school.


    I let out a relieved sigh and felt my shoulders relax once behind the structure. Allowing myself to unwind, I took several steps forward, then sat down on the ground, back resting against the wall of the building.


    I opened my bento, and, as always, the contents hidden within the box made me salivate by the mere sight of them. My mother may terrify me, but she definitely knew how to cook. I preferred her food over anything offered in the school cafeteria.


    When I was about halfway through lunch, I saw movement in the corner of my eye. I lowered the chopsticks in my hand, preparing for the worst. Only someone who wanted to cause trouble for me would be here. They must have seen me take refuge here. I should have been more careful.


    "What do you want?" I asked, looking at the person who''d chosen to join me.


    The individual my eyes landed on was the last person I expected to see. But, nevertheless, the very sight of them made me freeze altogether.


    Manta was standing only a few feet away with a black right eye, a left arm wrapped and hanging in a sling, and large bandages bound around his head. The startled expression on his face slowly shifted into a hauntingly familiar look of defeat as he gazed at the ground. I felt my stomach twist uncomfortably, a memory springing forth without consent.


    I stood in front of a cracked full-length mirror, eyes misted over and defeat written on my face. Thick bandages wrapped around my head, neck, and right forearm. An enormous bruise on my left cheek.


    Distressed, I scrambled to my feet and slammed a fist against the wall behind me to bring myself back into reality, frantic to push the image aside. Determined to protect the sanity I had garnered in the last several years. The pain which shot through my hand had the desired effect. Manta¡¯s small form came into focus, his large brown eyes wide as he stared up at me.


    ¡°Himiko?¡±


    Distress switched to anger as I scowled at Manta, silently blaming him for the thought that had appeared because of his selfish pursuit. Regardless, I was also worrying over how foolish Manta had been and how dangerously close he was to repeating the same mistake I''d made.


    No. Don''t think of it!


    "Idiot!" I exclaimed, emotions overriding my senses. "Why have you gone so far to prove yourself to people who find it so easy to believe you would lie to them?! People who haven''t bothered to give you the benefit of the doubt and turn on you the moment you say something they disagree with?!"


    What are you doing? Don''t think of that time!


    His eyes were wide from my outburst.


    Unable to look at him unless I wanted to be reminded of the image of myself in the mirror, I spun around.


    Silence engulfed the area. I took a few deep breaths and cleared my mind. The last thing needed was for any more memories to resurface, something that had become perilously close to happening with our encounter. I''d spent the past several years compartmentalizing every memory. Shoving any unnecessary thought inside a shelf and locking it away until virtually forgetting everything. And I would go on forgetting, continue to lock them away. I could not, would not let them come back.


    "I have a few words of advice for you," I said, calming down enough to speak rationally. "Give up. You''ll be better off if you do. It''s impossible to prove that ghosts are real."


    I swiftly walked away before he could reply, leaving behind my lunch box along with its contents scattered across the ground. In the attempt to escape, I came face to face with the shaman boy who was hiding just around the corner. I froze, eyes widening in shock and heart, stopping because of our close proximity. The aura around him, sending emotions whirling through me once more. Coming to my senses as he opened his lips, I threw myself back and then bolted to get away from him before he could say anything. I didn''t dare look back.

 ? Chapter Four: Unhinging Echo of the Past ?

    Chapter Four: Unhinging Echo of the Past


    Take a deep breath. Breathe out. Inhale. Another exhale.


    I was sitting in a park practicing breathing exercises after cram school to decompress, the stress of today weighing down on me.


    As predicted, erroneous rumors of my potential ''involvement'' with Umemiya spread like wildfire. And, as I feared might happen, the word continued to be passed around at my cram school to others not privy to the ever-worsening situation. Given the nature of the news, I wouldn''t find it surprising if it snowballed to other schools tonight. By tomorrow morning, everyone would falsely believe I was in a gang.


    That knowledge would have its own set of consequences. Either people would stay away, fearing me because I was a delinquent of a notorious group of thugs, or they''d search for me to pick a fight. Umemiya also might not appreciate the notion going around that he was taking orders from someone else. Likewise, my mother and her husband would be furious if they caught wind of it.


    The world must love conspiring against me...


    I sighed, laying down on the cool grass and staring up at the sky. Tonight, white, fluffy clouds covered the moon and stars.


    "It''s just as well," I muttered, rolling onto my side.


    I didn''t want to look at them, anyway.


    After some time, the tension pervading my body dissipated, replaced by exhaustion. My eyelids grew heavy, but I persuaded myself to sit up with the knowledge sleeping out in public was too high a risk. Someone would do something to me. I had countless enemies and had become the chief topic of too many conversations; there were also multiple weirdoes prowling around.


    I stood, about to head home, when a pulling feeling flooded my senses that was much stronger than I''d experienced before. Overwhelmed by it, my instincts took over and led me toward some unknown destination. Surroundings, vanishing while I walked forward in a trance-like state.


    The tugging sensation came to an abrupt stop. I blinked, disoriented, but soon recognized my location.


    "Is this some kind of joke?" I groaned.


    Some sick twist of fate had led me right where I didn''t want to be¡ªthe Funbari Hill Cemetery.


    Choosing to ignore whatever drew me here, I went to walk away but halted as voices reached my ears. I knew by their boisterous conversation that it was a sizable group of people; one distinctive baritone voice stood out more than the others. I''d heard its unmistakable gruff overtones many times over the years. Ryunosuke Umemiya, known less formally as Ryu of the Wooden Sword, was heading in my direction. His gang with him.


    My heartbeat sped up, and I felt panic set in.


    I can''t let anyone see me with or near them. It will only give everyone a reason to think their suspicions about me are true!


    With nothing else on my mind but trying to make a quick escape, I threw open the small gate of the cemetery and rushed inside. Realization of what I''d done hit the moment my feet touched the hallowed grounds. I wanted to berate myself for the stupidity of my actions but stayed quiet and searched for a place to hide. There was nothing I could do now.


    If I tried retracing my steps, the streetlight in front of the gate would only cause them to find me. They''d give chase and beat me to a pulp when they captured me; of that, I''m sure.


    Umemiya and I weren''t on the best of terms, despite what others may think. Our last parting wasn''t under the most favorable of circumstances. And if he''s heard the rumors, seeing me would only add fuel to the fire. I bet he and his friends were eager to do something to me. My appearance in their territory would grant them the ammunition they needed to do it.


    Frantic and finding no place to take cover, I dashed up the stone stairs leading to the Shinto shrine. Sneaking behind the memorial was my only chance of getting out of this unscathed.


    "Himiko?!" Manta shouted in surprise when I made it to the top of the hill.


    Heart leaping inside my chest from his sudden outburst, I stopped and looked in his direction.


    Manta was being held hostage, strapped tight to the base of the tree by a thick rope and feet dangling in the air because of his short stature. The shaman boy was standing next to him near the now broken headstone lying in pieces on the ground. It took a few moments to process the situation as I stared at them in bewilderment.


    "Yo!" the shaman youth said with a carefree smile.


    "What the¡ª?" I shook my head to gather my thoughts. "What are you¡ª"


    "Don''t worry, I''ll untie Manta soon. I just want him to watch me."


    "Watch you?"


    "But it was nothing!" Umemiya exclaimed with pride.


    My concentration shifted to the steps as I turned pale and cursed under my breath.


    Damn it! I forgot why I was here!


    "That voice..." Manta said, shaking with terror.


    "When they saw Ryu swinging the wooden sword around, everyone scattered away."


    "They were all bullshitting with us."


    "It might be best if you go hide," the shaman boy suggested.


    The absurdity of the idea made me look at him with an incredulous expression, anger rearing its ugly head.


    "Hide?!" I roared. "How can you expect me to hide when Manta''s tied to a tree?! He can''t defend himself, let alone run! He''ll just get beaten to a pulp again along with you! Idiot!"


    My haughty reply took the two younger boys off guard, along with myself. I''d reacted to his advice without thinking, something that was becoming all too common whenever they were around. Everything I blurted out, though, had been my true feelings about the subject. The circumstances had thrown me into a position that made it impossible to follow through with his suggestion. I could never abandon someone to save myself, no matter who they were or what may happen.


    "Why are you two knuckleheads even here?!" I continued in frustration.


    "Who''s there?" Ryu asked from behind me, a hint of irritation in his voice, reminding me of his presence a second time.Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on.


    I peered up at the now cloudless, starry sky with silent dread, then turned around and faced him.


    Ryunosuke Umemiya was a tall, muscular man with the appearance of a person trapped in the sixties and whose tough exterior caused fear in the hearts of anybody nearby. His outfit wasn''t something I expected someone in a gang to wear. It was a purple long-sleeve top with enormous lapels and cuffs underneath a crisp, white three-piece suit. He still had his signature foot-long black pompadour atop his head that had always been his crowning glory and a pointy goatee on his chin. In his right hand, he held the wooden sword he used whenever anyone stood in his way.


    His dark blue eyes widened in surprise and recognition as he took in my form.


    "Chibana?"


    "Hello, Umemiya," I replied with a tense nod.


    A frown appeared on his lips. "What are you doing here?"


    I felt some comfort in the fact that he seemed willing to talk, despite his unmistakable displeasure. Perhaps I could get us out of this without anything happening.


    "I have a favor to ask," I replied with confidence, burying my nervousness deep inside me.


    Seven of the eight men standing behind him looked back and forth between us in confusion.


    The eighth man only stared at me with astonishment, his obsidian eyes wide. He was Haru Sakata, also known as Blue Chateau, the other person everyone assumed I was associated with. An attractive blue-haired individual, his future prospects would have been better if he hadn''t befriended Umemiya. I had no doubt about that. He wouldn''t have ended up in a notorious gang. Unlike his leader and friend, he wore a simple navy long-sleeve top with charcoal cargo pants.


    "Favor?" Sakata inquired, stepping forward to stand next to Umemiya.


    "Hold it!" Manta yelled. "You know them?!"


    The group looked over my shoulders at Manta and the other boy.


    "Ryu, that''s the kid from yesterday," a heavyset guy with a red knit hat said.


    "I know what I''m looking at," Umemiya responded, his frown worsening before turning his focus back to me. "What favor?"


    "Could you let us go just this once?" I proposed, bowing to him in respect. "I don''t think Manta can handle another beating from you guys."


    "What?" he asked. "Why should we?"


    "If you agree, we will leave and never enter this cemetery again."


    "Sorry, I can''t do that," the shaman pipped up.


    His words didn''t register at first. When they did, I stood straight and turned around to face him with a smile, trying to keep my cool as annoyance and worry surged through me.


    What does this idiot think he''s doing?! Does he want us to get thrashed by them?!


    "What?" I questioned, a dangerous tone to my voice that told him not to repeat what he said. "I don''t think I heard you right."


    "I can''t do that."


    My right eyebrow twitched. "What do you mean, you can''t do that?"


    "Our friend seemed to owe them some debt, so I came by to return the favor."


    "What?!" I snapped in disbelief and frustration.


    His entire purpose for coming here was to start a fight with these guys? And what does he mean by friend? What friend? I don''t have any friends!


    "Favor? Are you saying you''re going to avenge him?" Umemiya asked with a smirk, then chuckled. "You sure got some guts. You must really want to see the otherworld soon."


    "Even those of the otherworld are saying that you people are annoying."


    I froze, uncomfortable with the mention of the spirits still wandering the cemetery and horrified that he would refer to them now.


    What the hell is this brat planning?! Is he trying to goad them into attacking us?!


    "This kid... There is a limit even when joking around," Umemiya snarled.


    "Apologize!" Manta screamed with fright. "Kneel down and apologize!"


    When he didn''t take my cousin''s recommendation, an annoyed scoff came from Umemiya''s lips.


    "Ryu! We''ll take care of them!"


    "There''s no need for Ryu to waste any effort on this," another gang member agreed.


    I could feel their bloodthirst as the hairs on my neck stood on end. This wouldn''t turn out well if things continued to escalate.


    "Wait!" I pleaded, spinning around to face Umemiya and his gang. "Let''s talk about this!"


    "There''s nothing you can say now, Chibana," Umemiya stated, an icy glare on his face. "Your friends have made their beds, and now they have to lie in them."


    "Apologize already!" Manta begged.


    "I told you, it''s all right," the shaman boy said.


    "It''s impossible to do anything by yourself!"


    "I''m not alone!"


    The air shifted, and I whirled around to face him once again, heart pounding loud enough that I could almost hear it.


    A tall, muscular samurai wearing a black Hitatare underneath a white robe materialized behind him from the headstone lying on the ground. He had his thick locks of white hair tied back in a high ponytail except for two strands of long hair framing the sides of his face.


    "I shall grant thee an opportunity to redeem your mistakes, so you should be thankful!" the ghost said, fury in his blue eyes.


    Mistakes? Did Umemiya and his gang anger him? Were they the ones who desecrated his headstone?


    "Trash him!" Umemiya commanded.


    Two members of his gang charged forward, rushing past me on both sides.


    "Manta. Watch me closely," the shaman boy told my cousin. His gaze fell on the two men headed for him as he gave an easy smile. "All right! Amidamaru! Spirit Ball Mode!"


    I took a step back with a sharp gasp as Amidamaru lost his shape and developed into a blue sphere in the boy''s right hand.


    "I''m a shaman, one who links this world and the otherworld!"


    His voice combined with another as an older teenager with short black hair took his place. Their actions and words, becoming one as excruciating anguish shot through my heart.


    No.


    "Let''s go! Over Soul Merge!"


    His body bent forward as he pushed the sphere into his chest, assimilating with the spirit.


    "The spirit went into his body?!" Manta said in shock.


    Determination was flowing through his purple eyes as he lifted his head once Umemiya''s gang members were in reach. He picked up his metal sword and attacked them with unrivaled skill. The almost unseeable assault threw the two men into the air. They landed on the ground behind him, unconscious, defeated with ease.


    "W-what the hell just happened?"


    "It was too fast to see anything."


    "You''re next," the spirit within his body declared, taking complete control and causing a smirk to form on his lips. "Are you prepared for it?"


    Stop!


    I crumpled to the ground, clutching my head.


    "Why?" I whispered, tightly closing my eyes to rid myself of the terrible image that had entered my mind.


    Why did I have to come here? Why did that shaman boy keep leading me to him? Why must I see all this?! Why can''t everyone leave me alone?! I didn''t want to remember! I''ve been able to suppress any thought of him for five years now! I can''t look back! It wouldn''t do me any good!


    Distressed and angry, I repeatedly slammed the sides of my fists down onto the ground to cope.


    "What''s wrong? Are you scared of my blade, amateur?"


    "This bastard! Don''t estimate me!" Umemiya shouted with rage, charging past me to reach him.


    I couldn''t bring myself to watch the fight, fearing what else my mind might conjure up in my unstable condition.


    "He disappeared?!"


    "Ryu, watch out!"


    A poignant silence filled the air until the spirit spoke. "I won''t kill you since I don''t want garbage like you to be one of us."


    All of Umemiya''s gang members screamed out in horror.


    "Ryu has been defeated! Run!"


    They ran forward to retrieve their fallen comrades, then escaped as fast as they could.


    The area fell silent as the sound of their footsteps faded. I stopped hitting the ground and clutched the dirt in an attempt to stabilize myself. Unable to look at the shaman boy who had brought forth unbidden memories within my mind, I kept my teary gaze focused on the earth beneath me. I didn''t want another memory to appear.


    "Hey, are you all right?" the shaman boy asked with concern, placing his warm hand on my shoulder.


    Panic surged through me as I knocked his hand away and shot to my feet. I took several strides back to put space between us, my tear-filled eyes connecting with his.


    "Don''t touch me!"


    His eyes widened with surprise and a vague sense of recognition. I spun on my heels and ran away before he could say anything.


    "W-wait!" he called after me.


    I hurried down the steps, almost tripping as I took two or three at a time in my haste to get away from him. The entrance gate was still open when I reached it and ran out onto the sidewalk. My side slammed into the streetlight a few feet beyond its threshold as I tried changing directions. Ignoring the pain caused by the impact, I pushed myself away from it and continued running, desperate to escape.


    I tore through the city with no particular destination in mind, refusing to rest until there was a suitable distance between the cemetery and me. A few groups of people were still wandering the sidewalks, getting in my way as I almost collided with them. I only paid attention to them long enough to dodge, receiving a few choice words for the close encounters.


    When I reached the outskirts of town, I was finally able to stop. I leaned against a nearby brick wall and slid down it to sit on the ground, panting in exhaustion. My gaze landed on the thousands of stars in the sky as I tilted my head back. A heavy feeling threatened to enter my heart.


    "The view''s even better here," I whispered.


    Looking away, I brought my knees to my chest. Thoughts of what happened tonight, rearing their ugly head now that my focus wasn''t on running away.


    "Don''t think of it anymore," I muttered. "You''re fine. Everything is fine. Just repress it."


    Repress. Lock it away. Forget. Remember, you''re over it.


    "You''re over it."

 ? Chapter Five: The Opening Door ?

    Chapter Five: The Opening Door


    Flowers of various colors and types surrounded me while I nestled onto a section of grass in an elaborate garden. I stared at the trickling fountain at its center, breathing in the fresh, flower-scented air and basking in the sunlight''s warmth. It was a serene place of solace, sectioned off from the rest of the world. My sanctuary. I appreciated the comforting warmth, peacefulness, and tranquility it offered.


    "Himi!" a child called out, breaking the solitary peace I was enjoying.


    My eyes widened in surprise as a small, fair-haired boy, no bigger than Manta, ran toward me. His emerald green eyes, bright and filled with happiness as he smiled. He wrapped his arms around my neck the moment I was within his reach, nearly toppling me over from the force of his excited hug.


    "Keisuke?" I whispered in confusion, cautiously hugging my little brother back.


    "He became impatient waiting for you, so we both came out to retrieve you," a soft-spoken woman explained.


    With a sharp intake of breath from the familiar sound of her voice, I gazed at the short elderly woman standing a few feet from us. Amazement shifted into longing and tenderness as a gentle expression appeared on my face, my whole body relaxing because of her presence.


    "Grandmama."


    An affectionate smile spread across her wrinkled face when she stepped forward and placed a gentle hand on top of my head, conjuring the memory of her soothing touch. Her long, flowing silver hair I''d admired since I was a small child, swaying in the soft breeze. An all-knowing look was visible within the depths of her warm amber eyes. It felt like they could see through me without uttering a single word. There were countless times it seemed as if they could. Grandmother had a way of knowing whenever something was bothering me, no matter how much I tried to hide it¡ªalways knew my thoughts.


    "Let''s go inside, Little Bird," she coaxed, taking hold of my hand. "You''ve been pushing yourself too hard again."


    Keisuke broke our hug and tried to pull me to my feet with all his strength. "Come on!"


    With their hands wrapped around mine, I stood. They began leading me down the cobblestone pathway of the garden and up to a two-story Victorian-style mansion at the center of the vast property. We walked through a set of glass French doors to get inside, entering a high-ceilinged study with dozens of leather-bound books lining the left wall. A living room with expensive furniture was beyond the next threshold; no one was inside it.


    Stepping through another set of solid wooden French doors, we reached the grand marble entry hall. They escorted me up the red-carpeted spiral staircase and down the hallway at the top until we stopped in the doorway of a secondary living room.


    "There''s our buttercup," a thin, raspy voice said with delight.


    My widening eyes landed on a slim elderly grey-haired man as he stood from one of the couches, and I took a second sharp intake of breath. Many of the same emotions I felt when my grandmother appeared flowed through me while he walked toward us.


    "Grandpapa?"


    His vivid emerald green eyes, so much like Keisuke''s, were full of warmth and unconditional love as he returned my gaze. The fond smile on his wrinkled face widened with each step until he stopped in front of me.


    "I missed you," he said, bending down to kiss my cheek and giving me a tight hug.


    "I missed you too," I whispered, returning his affectionate gestures as the warmth of his body surrounded me in a protective blanket.


    He pulled away, then ushered us over to the nearest couch and sat down next to me. As our grandmother sat on my other side, Keisuke stepped in front of me and reached out. I stared at his expectant face for a moment before giving in to his silent demand, hoisting him up into the air and placing him onto my lap. Guided by instinct and the need for comfort, I held Keisuke tight and buried my face into his hair.


    "You really are pushing yourself too much again, aren''t you?" Grandfather said, echoing my grandmother''s words. "Tell us what''s on your mind, child."


    I hesitated for a moment, then lifted my head to look at the French doors on the opposite side of the room. Through the glass panels, I could see a high school-aged boy standing on the balcony beyond the threshold of the ajar doors. His back was to us while he watched the sunset, a light breeze tousling his short black hair. My hold on Keisuke tightened. Even from behind, I knew who it was. The mere sight of him was enough to cause excruciating pain to return to my heart.The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    "I see," my grandmother said with understanding. "The memories of him are beginning to reawaken."


    "I''ve forgotten," I replied with stern resolve, still staring at him. "It''s better to repress. Lock it away. Forget."


    She brought me close to her side and kissed the top of my head. "You can never wipe him from your mind completely, not when your heart still yearns for him. Just as you cannot forget about us and what we meant to you."


    "I can''t¡ª"


    The dream faded into black as the sound of obnoxious knocking bombarded my ears.


    "Himiko!" my mother shouted. "Wake up! It''s time for breakfast! I leave for work in fifteen minutes. If you''re not ready by then, you''ll have to walk to the museum."


    With a tired groan, I nestled my face into my arms.


    I didn''t know whether to be glad she''d interrupted the dream or aggravated because of the noise. Was she always this loud and persistent in the morning?


    When I didn''t reply, my mother slammed her fist on the door harder. "Himiko!"


    Lifting my head, I glared at the door and spoke over the pounding. "Okay! Okay! I''m awake!"


    The offensive racket came to an abrupt end after my unplanned outburst of irritation. I stared at the door with apprehension, sweat gathering on my brow and gulping in nervousness. A few moments passed before the sound of her high heels clicking against the wooden floor reached my ears as she retreated down the hall. I sighed with relief, knowing she wouldn''t press the matter.


    "Thank goodness," I muttered to myself, resting back against my desk chair and staring up at the cream ceiling.


    I didn''t need to get on her bad side this morning.


    My tired gaze moved to the paper, notebooks, and textbooks scattered across the desk in front of me.


    For the last two nights, I¡¯d fallen asleep while working on homework. Forming an unhealthy obsession with studying to the point of maniacal enthusiasm. It was the only recourse to distract me from what happened in the cemetery. I¡¯d even gone as far as staying on school grounds with my nose stuffed in a book until the start of cram school to avoid any unpleasant encounters. However, the dream revealed how much more effort I still needed to put in. The door to my memories was too close to opening.


    "Don''t think of it."


    I stood, casting aside thoughts of the dream, and decided to get ready for the busy day ahead.


    The spotless carpeted floor was soft against the bottom of my bare feet as I crossed the room and stepped in front of the closet. Inside, it was tidy and empty except for my clothes. Unlike most people who stashed personal effects somewhere in their room, I only bothered having the bare necessities. There''s no point in holding onto or becoming attached to anything. Besides, it''s easier to clean and keep everything organized this way. I sorted all the clothes based on their purpose; school uniforms hung to the right, pajamas in the middle, and casual wear to the left.


    Knowing there was little time, I hastily threw on the closest pair of jeans and a plain, loose-fitting black shirt that helped conceal my ample curves. I didn''t have any difficulty selecting what to wear. The left side of my closet only held several pairs of charcoal-colored skinny jeans and different colored long-sleeve t-shirts.


    I hurried over to the ornate vanity near the bed to brush out the snarls in my hair. The piece of furniture was out of place in the otherwise austere room. A white sheet, gray with five years'' worth of dust and cobwebs, covered the oval-shaped mirror. I chose to leave it when we moved, preferring to keep the mirror hidden from view. There''s no reason to remove the sheet, anyway. I didn''t care about my appearance. That''s something I''d let my mother fret about.


    Once all the snarls were dealt with, I walked to the desk to gather several hefty history books and one of my notebooks containing dozens of research notes. I found it challenging to get everything inside my worn bookbag. After multiple attempts at rearranging things, it was bursting at the seams. The contents within, pulling at the holes in the stitching.


    A frown formed on my lips. "I need a new bag."


    If I wasn''t careful, it''d finish tearing at the most inconvenient time and leave me with a terrible mess to clean up.


    The strap dug into my shoulder while the bag rested heavily on my hip and thigh as I moved toward the bedroom door. The six chain locks along its edge stopped me from leaving, but not for too long. I unlatched them with practiced skill, then turned the doorknob and threw open the door. In my rush to get downstairs, I darted into the hallway and almost collided with Keisuke.


    We froze, our eyes widening in surprise because of our proximity and unexpected encounter. Unwelcome feelings of longing and sadness I''d buried many ages ago entered my heart, along with pain and fear.


    He was much older than in the dream. Now ten years old, the top of his head came up to my chin. His eyes were wide as he stared up at me with a surprised expression that matched my own. I couldn''t blame him for his reaction. This is the closest either of us had been to each other in years. The days I could hold him were over.


    A fierce scowl threatened to appear on my face from the uninvited thought.


    That blasted dream. I wouldn''t be feeling any of this if it wasn''t for what I saw last night. I''d adjusted to our estranged relationship long ago.


    "Himiko."


    At the sound of our mother''s stern voice, we instantly moved back to put distance between us and looked down at the base of the steps. She was gazing up at me with a stony expression, hands on her hips.


    "Hurry and get down here," she ordered, about to lose what''s left of her patience. "Everyone else already finished eating breakfast."


    "Yes, Mother."


    Mindful of her piercing gaze as she followed our every movement, I was careful we wouldn''t have any physical contact while stepping around Keisuke. If we so much as brushed up against each other, it would only bring forth more unwanted feelings and memories for both of us. Unfortunately, Keisuke''s green eyes met mine during my deliberate attempt to stay away from him. His forlorn eyes were enough to bring the dream back to the forefront of my conscience, given my current state of mind. Grandmama''s last words, in particular, haunted me as her voice echoed through my head again.


    "You can never wipe him from your mind completely, not when your heart still yearns for him. Just as you cannot forget about us and what we meant to you."


    I can''t afford to remember. Everything would be shattered in an instant, along with my heart and sanity, and the freedom I''ve gained would be taken. It''s better to forget and reclose the door¡ªseal away the memories of the past forever before it was too late.


    Unable to keep eye contact with him, I turned my head and pretended as if nothing was amiss when I walked past him.


    We can never go back to the way things were. And it was easier to just accept that fact. Both for him and for me.

 ? Chapter Six: Tragedy Hidden Behind A Legend ?

    Chapter Six: Tragedy Hidden Behind A Legend


    The car ride was long, despite the short distance to our destination. Not surprising, given the underlying tension always between my mother and me. I spent the entire time fretting over whether she''d make some remark about my actions this morning or anything else she found objectionable. I wanted nothing more than for things to stay quiet and uneventful during our remaining time together. Silence meant my mother and her husband had nothing to complain about; things were going how they wanted. That''s all that mattered to them or me.


    It was about eight-thirty in the morning when the car finally stopped in front of a small local history museum near the center of town. I felt a sharp sense of relief, knowing the ride was over.


    "Thank you for driving me," I said with gratitude, grabbing the strap of my bag and opening the car door to get out as fast as possible.


    "Himiko."


    I froze, then felt my shoulders droop as dread consumed me.


    Why did she stop me? Was she angry with me for snapping at her earlier this morning after all?


    The grip I had on the door handle tightened as panic set in, my thoughts shifting to the other things plaguing my mind recently.


    Did she overhear the false rumors of my involvement with Umemiya and his gang? Maybe she found out Manta''s attending Funbari Junior High and wants to know why he thought it was okay to talk to me at school? Even worse, what if she learned of the shaman boy?!


    Heart pounding in my chest, I spoke without glancing at her, fearing what she''d say. "Yes?"


    "Your father and I can''t pick you up tonight. We have a crucial meeting to attend later this evening. I''ve put food in the fridge for you and Keisuke to eat when you get back home. Just heat it up on the stove."


    I let her words sink in before speaking. "Yes. Thank you. Sorry for the inconvenience."


    I should''ve expected something like this. She had already taken far too much time out of her busy schedule to cater to my selfish request. In fact, I''m surprised she even agreed. She had more important things to do than to act as my chauffeur. It''s only because of sheer desperation that I gathered enough courage to ask.


    At least she isn''t angry.


    Relieved and knowing our conversation was over, I climbed out of the vehicle. She pushed on the gas the moment I shut the door, causing me to cough as exhaust filled my lungs. Once the air cleared, I stared at the retreating car while she drove away. The apprehension that had taken its hold on me faded once it disappeared from view, allowing me to relax and take in the surrounding area.


    The sun was high in the sky, illuminating everything with its bright, warm light. Feeling the dampness already permeating the air, I let out a sigh and frowned. The current pervading warmth was only a precursor to the scorching heat predicted to become prevalent later today. In fact, according to the weather forecast, the temperature will continue to worsen during the upcoming week.


    Summer was upon us¡­


    Chirping birds flew overhead as I walked over to a nearby tree and sat on the ground in the cool shade to wait for the museum to open. Although the likelihood of Umemiya, Manta, or the shaman boy finding me here was slim, I kept an eye out just in case.


    Thirty minutes passed before an old man wearing brown coveralls rode up to the building on a bicycle. He stopped near the front doors and climbed off his bike while juggling with the broom in his hand. I stood and stepped over to him when he pulled out a large metal ring with at least a dozen keys, realizing he was an employee. A smile appeared on his wrinkled face when he took notice of me.


    "Hello. Have you taken an interest in this town''s history?"


    "You could say that. My teacher gave everyone a homework assignment, and I came here for more information."


    "Oh?" he replied with curiosity. "Who are you researching?"


    "Ayumi Sohma."


    His smile widened. "You''re in luck. We have an extensive collection of artifacts covering her life on the second floor. Allow me to escort you there."


    "Thank you."


    He unlocked the entrance doors and held one open for me before I stepped into the building.


    It was dark inside, except for the soft natural light coming through the glass behind us. Paneling covered the rest of the windows to protect the precious relics from the sun. Once he flipped on the lights, we walked down a short hallway until we entered a large room. As I looked around at the artifacts, my gaze landed on an old rusty sword lying in one of the display cases. A small ancient drawing of a familiar figure was right next to it.


    "Amidamaru," I whispered with silent dread.


    The world is against me today. If I''d known that this was here, I would have stuck to my history books. I wanted to forget what happened, not be reminded of it.


    "Have you heard the legend?" the man asked, noticing I''d stopped walking.


    I glanced at him. "Legend?"


    "Amidamaru disobeyed his shogun and killed the hundreds of people who came after him without any mercy. His deeds earned him the reputation of being known as the Devil. It is said that Amidamaru loved this katana so much he was able to wield it as if it were part of his own body."


    That doesn''t surprise me, given the incredible swordsmanship he displayed the other night. Anyone who faced off against him would be hard-pressed to defeat someone with his prowess. I only knew one person capable of wielding a sword as he did.


    "I''m sure Harusame is happy that you''ve taken an interest," he said, thankfully breaking my train of thought.


    "What do you mean?" I asked, eyebrows furrowing in confusion.


    How could an inanimate object become happy?


    "There''s a rumor that Harusame sheds tears at night. It is said that even sniffling sounds can be heard."


    What?!


    He continued speaking, oblivious to the stiffening of my body as panic flowed through me. "A katana is the spirit of a samurai, after all. There must be a strong bond between Amidamaru and Harusame. If possible, I wanted it to be placed next to his tombstone." His eyes landed on me as he gave another smile. "Well, at least someone came by. Why don''t you be Harusame''s companion in place of Amidamaru? Harusame will surely be happy."


    I blinked at him as he walked away, flustered, bewildered, and horrified by the peculiar request. A frown appeared on my lips as I looked back at the sword.


    Great. Just perfect. Did someone curse me in another life? All I wanted to do was finish up my report. I don''t need someone to ask me to hang around a crying sword. If the rumors are true, something or someone is haunting it. Furthermore, it would only remind of what happened in the cemetery.


    I shouldn''t stay here. I need to finish my assignment and leave as soon as possible.


    Deciding to put distance between myself and the sword, I followed the man. When we reached the second floor, my gaze landed on an ancient portrait of a beautiful pale-skinned Miko. She was sitting in a plain wooden chair, her long raven hair moving behind her in the breeze. The hidden emotions swirling through her chocolate brown eyes drew me towards the painting, although they also made me uncomfortable.If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    "She''s stunning, isn''t she?"


    "Yeah."


    I pried my eyes away from her and read the metal placard adhered to the wall.


    Ayumi Sohma 1000 A.D.


    "Ayumi was a Miko and talented healer, capable of treating the worst of ailments. She predicted a great catastrophe and saved this town from certain ruin one thousand years ago. Her accomplishments gained her the well-earned reputation of being known as a savior. Although the praise she acquired came at a terrible price. Legend has it she sacrificed her own life to save everyone.


    "There was a large procession to mourn her death. The people she protected erected a memorial near her burial place to honor her, but its location remains to be found. Whether it became forgotten with time or destroyed, no one knows. However, there is one thing I know for certain. Whenever I look into her eyes, my heart tells me there''s more to her and the story than meets the eye. In fact, they mirror your own."


    Mine?


    His statement made me uneasy, and I didn''t dare glance over at him while we stood next to each other in silence.


    "Well," he said, breaking the stillness that had formed between us, "I''ll let you get on with your research. I need to do a few things."


    "Yes. Thank you."


    As we parted ways, I walked over to the closest bench and pulled out a notebook and pen from inside my school bag. Glancing around the spacious floor, I realized every artifact on display pertained only to the woman I was researching. Given her importance to the town, it wasn''t unexpected. At least it gave me more content to work with.


    No one bothered me as I took notes and focused on my report. Much of the information encompassed what I''d already read in history books while expanding upon a few things. I discovered more about the period, which gave me a better understanding of the general political climate. Famine was rampant, and the people suffered because of the ruling aristocrats'' inability to manage the country''s money and providences. Only a select few prospered. By one thousand A.D., the government lost its capability of issuing currency, and money began disappearing. I also learned a few other things about Ayumi''s life, but nothing regarding her origins. Her sacrifice and kind deeds outshined everything else.


    Before I realized it, hours had passed.


    Engrossed in my studies, I didn''t catch sight of the electric clock hanging on the wall until it was late enough the sun had set. Worried, I stuffed everything inside my bag and rushed toward the exit of the museum while praying nothing would happen. At the bottom of the stairs, my sneakers squeaked against the polished floor while I ran forward, desperate to escape.


    Trepidation surged through me as I approached the doorway leading into the room where the Harusame was located. I stopped a few feet before it, dreading the sight that might greet me.


    Maybe I should look for another exit. It would be easier than dealing with a haunted sword.


    An ominous growl came from the room, causing me to jump.


    What was that?!


    "Y-Yoh?"


    The trembling voice made my brain clear for a moment.


    No way¡­ Manta?


    I peered around the corner to confirm my suspicions, only to be taken off guard.


    My cousin and the shaman boy were occupying a bench in front of the katana. Manta was lying on his side, propped up and staring at the boy sitting next to him with wide eyes. Between them was an enormous book he''d no doubt been using as a pillow until the eerie growl woke him up.


    Why are they here?! For crying out loud, I''m even in a museum! Shouldn''t they be doing something else with their free time? It''s not normal for thirteen-year-old boys to visit a place like this during the weekend!


    The shaman boy rubbed his stomach and looked over at him. "I''m hungry. Wanna go buy something?"


    What?


    Manta fell to the floor in disbelief as I stared at the two boys with an incredulous expression.


    When the hell did they become such close friends?


    The smaller boy stood, body shaking with irritation. "Are you trying to use me as your servant?"


    "Well, actually, I don''t have any money."


    "Jeez. Besides¡ª" Sheer terror spread across his features as he turned his attention to the Harusame. "W-what time¡­ is it?"


    An all-consuming, ice-cold air had wrapped around us like a blanket, causing the hairs at the back of my neck to stand on end. Seconds later, the sound of dripping water reached my ears. I hesitantly looked over at the Harusame, noticing a large puddle had gathered underneath it. The spirit haunting the Harusame had made its appearance.


    Why do these two keep putting me in these situations?


    "I-it''s crying!" Manta exclaimed, hiding behind the bench and shaking in fear with his eyes glued to the katana. "The Harusame''s crying!"


    "Look carefully," the shaman said as he stood. "It''s not the Harusame that''s crying. It''s that man."


    A large, muscular man was sitting on top of the display case. Head bowed, his face was contorted in pain as tears streamed down his cheeks. He had shoulder-length brunette hair held back in a low ponytail, keeping it away from his chiseled face. It was clear from his traditional Japanese clothes he was from ancient times.


    "I-it has shown itself!" Manta yelled, flailing his arms.


    His head shot up as he stared at them, his brown eyes wide in shock. "W-what do you mean, shown itself? You can see me?"


    "Yeah, clearly," Manta answered, close to tears.


    The spirit turned his back to us and wiped his eyes. "This isn''t good. I''m embarrassed that you saw that."


    "You don''t have to be embarrassed," the young shaman replied with an understanding smile. "When a man cries, there''s a good reason behind it. Isn''t that right?"


    The man spun around, his body tense. "What''s going on? Who are you people?"


    "I''m Yoh. This is my friend, Manta."


    "H-hi," Manta replied, still afraid.


    "I''m Mosuke, a swordsmith."


    "Mosuke? That''s some old name," Yoh said in a relaxed manner.


    "It''s from six hundred years ago!" Mosuke shouted, raising his fist into the air. "Of course it''s old!"


    Yoh laughed. "Oh, that''s right."


    "Six hundred years?" Manta asked. "That''s during the same era as Amidamaru''s legend."


    "Do you know Amidamaru?" Mosuke demanded, an intimidating look on his face.


    Manta shrieked in fear and hid his face behind the bench.


    "A little," Yoh said. "By the way, why are you haunting the Harusame? That''s Amidamaru''s katana, isn''t it?"


    Mosuke lowered his head, looking down with torment. "This is also my katana. The Harusame was forged by me."


    "No way!" Manta exclaimed. "Then Amidamaru¡ª"


    "Yes, I know him well. I was the one who killed him."


    His distressing words made my chest tighten as I focused on the heart-wrenching guilt in his expression.


    He killed him?


    Manta yelled out in surprise, breaking me from my thoughts and causing me to almost scream myself. "That devil?!"


    "Idiot!" Mosuke roared in anger.


    My cousin screamed.


    "Don''t..." Mosuke said, sobbing once more. "Don''t you dare call him a devil! He''s... He''s not like..."


    "Yeah, Amidamaru isn''t an evil being," Yoh agreed. Mosuke''s eyes widened in surprise. "Mosuke, tell me, what happened six hundred years ago? What''s the relationship between you and Amidamaru?"


    "He''s... Amidamaru is... my one and only true friend..."


    His gaze became distant as he began to tell his tragic tale.


    "It was a miserable era. War didn''t know how to stop. Great starvation. Terror from bandits. People were mercilessly killed. In that kind of living hell, we lived to make our dreams come true.


    "We wandered until we captured the interest of a local shogun. He''d discovered the Harusame and asked to meet with us. Impressed by my skills, he offered to hire us. We were both overjoyed. But in the end,"¡ªhe sighed, his expression turning grim¡ª"Hell was still Hell. The shogun, driven by greed, asked Amidamaru to kill me to stop another sword like it from being created. Amidamaru told me as soon as he could. I asked him to kill me, knowing he could not disobey his order, but he refused, telling me to run instead."


    Desperation flowed through his eyes while he replayed the awful events in his mind, slouching as he clenched his hands into tight fists and stared at them.


    "I tried to reason with him, knowing what fate had in store for him if I complied, but he insisted." His face softened. "He wanted to save me, no matter the cost. In return for his kindness and unyielding friendship, I asked him to give me the Harusame. I wanted to create for him the finest sword. I said I would forge it in half a day, making plans to meet with him the next night to give it to him. We shook hands, promising each other we would meet again before parting ways."


    Mosuke paused, eyebrows furrowing and eyes filled with a myriad of painful emotions, some easy to spot and others indiscernible.


    "Those were the last words we exchanged."


    "The last?" Manta asked.


    "Yeah," Mosuke replied with a frown. "There was someone spying on us at the site. He reported to the shogun. I was killed, and that night... Amidamaru became a legend. Because of his powerful battle techniques, he was nicknamed the Devil. However, without the Harusame, Amidamaru eventually ran out of strength. And..."


    He died.


    Mosuke clutched the sides of his head and wept, continuing to speak with anguish. "If I didn''t exist, he wouldn''t have died! It''s the same as killing him myself! Him being called the Devil is all my... So until I give him the Harusame as I promised... I can''t rest in peace!"


    An unfulfilled promise, forgotten with time. A guilty conscience.


    The heartbreaking tale struck a chord deep within me; his misery was all too familiar. I stepped backward and firmly placed my back against the wall, trying to ground myself and rein in unwanted memories of the past before they burst forth.


    Why did they come tonight? Why did I have to hear this?


    "Then go give it to him," Yoh suggested.


    "Yeah!" Manta agreed, voice sounding as though he was crying. "Amidamaru is waiting for you, too! He''s been waiting for six hundred years in the promised place!"


    "What?!" Mosuke asked in surprise.


    "Well, let''s go," Yoh said.


    "That is¡­ impossible," Mosuke replied with hopelessness. "The Harusame being in this condition... And to see his face now..."


    How can he bear to see Amidamaru now with the guilt of his death weighing upon his conscience?


    "It''s okay. Leave it to me," Yoh declared. "I''m a shaman. One who connects this world and the otherworld."


    "A shaman?!"


    "Use my body, Mosuke. Then make the finest katana."


    "Is such a thing possible?!"


    "Yeah, it''s possible. Let''s go, Mosuke! Mosuke, Spirit Ball Mode!" I clenched my hands into tight fists, trying not to envision what was happening in the other room. "Over-Soul Merge! Mosuke!"


    There was a moment of silence as they became one.


    When Yoh spoke again, he had a different tone to his voice. "Did you say your name was Manta? Take me to the nearest iron factory."


    Their footsteps echoed against the walls as they walked toward the exit. I waited until the doors opened, then stepped out from my hiding place. Manta and Yoh''s moonlit silhouettes were discernable as they made their way toward a place where Mosuke could repair the Harusame.


    A sigh of relief came from my lips when they faded from view. "Finally, I can go home."


    And forget everything that happened tonight.

 ? Chapter Seven: Irreparable Transgression ?

    Chapter Seven: Irreparable Transgression


    Ready to leave, I stepped toward the museum doors.


    "Chibana?"


    I stopped, startled by the boy''s familiar voice, and shifted my gaze over to him.


    "Aikawa?"


    He was close by, looking at me with his brows furrowed in confusion. I clutched the strap of my bag, feeling uneasy, noting his thoughtful expression.


    Why is he staring at me? How long has he been there? Did he overhear what transpired between Mosuke, Manta, and Yoh?


    "What?" I asked, wariness in my voice.


    "I didn''t expect to meet you here."


    The feeling''s mutual.


    The janitor from this morning walked up from behind him before I could reply, gaze burning with curiosity. "Do you two know each other?"


    "Y-yeah," Aikawa said, turning his head away from us with a faint blush on his cheeks as he brushed his hand through his unkempt hair. "She''s a girl in my class."


    Silence filled the room while I took a closer glimpse at Aikawa.


    His short, surprisingly tangled black hair made him look like he''d just woken up. A large round brown stain of unknown origin was on the front of his wrinkled red t-shirt. Even his blue jeans had tears and grass stains.


    I thought he was more put together. He is supposed to be our student council president... It''d be entertaining to watch his overzealous fan clubs reaction if they saw him now. They''d likely faint, their perfect image of him being shattered. They might even stop bothering me.


    "Ah!" the older man exclaimed, breaking me from my wishful train of thought as a bright smile spread across his face. "You must be Himiko Chibana!"


    The boy standing next to him threw a wary glance in his direction.


    Perplexed, I nodded. "Y-yes?"


    "He speaks about you often."


    Eyes wide, I looked over at Aikawa in surprise and confusion.


    "Grandpa," Aikawa muttered, bringing a hand to his reddening face.


    Hold it! This is his grandfather?! Why would he talk to his grandfather about me?


    "Are you done with your research?" the janitor questioned.


    "What?" I asked, head still reeling.


    "Did you finish your research on Ayumi Sohma?"


    "Y-yes, I just finished up my report."


    Aikawa lowered his hand, looking at me in surprise. "You''re already done?"


    "I like completing things early. Makes things less stressful."


    "I see..."


    Deafening silence filled the room, neither of us knowing what to say next.


    "W-well," I said, deciding it was time to leave. "I guess I''ll see you at school."


    "Why don''t you escort her home, Itsuki?" his grandfather suggested.


    "What?" I asked, surprised.


    "It''s pretty late. I''d hate to make you walk home alone on the weekend in the dark."


    "No, I couldn''t¡ª"


    "It''s fine," Aikawa said, cutting me off. "I don''t mind."


    "But..."


    "I insist."


    Bewildered, I stared at him for a moment, then slowly nodded. "Very well."


    "Great," he replied, a radiant smile emerging on his face.


    I felt myself relax a little, knowing he was back to his usual self.


    "I''ll see ya later, grandpa."


    "Yes. Be careful. It was nice to finally meet you, Miss Chibana."


    "It was nice to meet you, too."


    "Come on," Aikawa muttered, gently taking my arm and pulling me toward the doors.


    A warm breeze swept through my hair when we exited the building. I made a mental inventory of all the blacksmiths in the area, trying to choose the best route home. None of the paths were a straight shot. Aikawa might ask questions if I change direction too many times.


    "What is it?" he asked as we stepped onto the sidewalk along the main road.


    "Hm?" I blinked up at him, my train of thought broken.


    He rubbed his neck, looking off to the side. "Whenever something''s on your mind, you frown. Are you concerned about what I''ve told my grandfather?"


    "No," I replied, shaking my head. "Although I am curious why you would talk to him about me. He didn''t seem to have anything against me."


    "Do you think I''m the kind of person to spread unfounded gossip?"


    I paused, gaping at him in surprise. "What?"


    His gaze moved to mine as he stopped walking, an earnest expression appearing on his face. "If you say something isn''t true, I''ll believe you until proven otherwise."


    Speechless from his bold declaration, I could only stare at him.


    How am I supposed to respond? He''s the first person who''s chosen to believe me¡­ However, I know there''s a limit to that kindness. He''d become like everyone else if I told him I could see spirits. It''s best to keep my distance as I always have.


    His countenance became tender as he turned toward me, grabbing my hand and opening his mouth.


    "Chibana!"


    Aikawa and I jumped, recognizing the anger-filled baritone voice.


    "H-hey, was that Umemiya?"


    Dread consumed me.


    Could this day get any worse?


    We glanced to the side, gazes landing on the man who''d bellowed my name.


    Umemiya was only ten feet away, gripping his wooden sword with a deep, murderous scowl. Someone had lobbed off the tip of his once pristine pompadour, making him look ridiculous. I''d find it amusing if it weren''t for the situation. He appeared to be ready to attack me.


    "Chibana?" Aikawa said.


    "Yes?"


    "On my signal, I want you to do what I say."


    I looked at him with incredulity. "What?"


    "Trust me. I have a plan."


    He released my hand and stepped in front of me before widening his stance, preparing to fight.


    What the hell is he thinking?! He can''t take this guy on!


    Umemiya scoffed. "Stay out of this, Aikawa."


    "Sorry, I can''t do that. It''s my job to make sure Chibana gets home in one piece."


    "Unless you also want to get beaten, you''ll do what I say."


    "No."


    "Leave, Aikawa," I ordered, chest tightening at the thought of harm coming to him. "I''ll handle this by myself."


    No one else needs to get involved. I don''t want Aikawa to be hurt because he tried to protect me.


    "No."


    "This has nothing to do with you!" I shouted with frustration.


    "As long as you''re in trouble, it has everything to do with me."


    "I don''t need to be protected!"


    "I''m not leaving you here," he replied with unshakable determination in his voice.


    "Then you better say your prayers!" Umemiya exclaimed, charging forward.


    Desperate to protect Aikawa and annoyed at his stubbornness, I took hold of his collar and yanked him back as Umemiya raised his sword and swung at him. He let out a strangled yelp, falling backward and narrowly avoiding the assault.


    "What the¡ª?" he said, sitting up and rubbing his throat in pain.


    "Idiot!" I snapped at him. His gaze moved up to me as I glared daggers at him. "Don''t get tangled up in my messes! You can''t handle him on your own!"


    Irritation flashed across his face. "And you can?!"


    "I''d rather be beaten to a pulp than allow someone else to get hurt because of me!"


    Aikawa''s eyes widened as he fell silent, my response taking him off guard.


    "Umemiya," I said, moving to stand in front of Aikawa. "Attack me all you want, but leave him out of it. He''s not involved."


    A dark smirk emerged on Umemiya''s face. "And you won''t try to pull anything?"


    "If you agree to not harm him, no."


    "Fine!"


    He raised his wooden sword above his head. Prepared to face it head-on, I kept my unwavering gaze resolute.


    "Himiko!" Aikawa shouted.


    Arms wrapped around my stomach and pulled me back into something warm and firm. The sword, missing me by a hairsbreadth.


    "I won''t let you hurt her, Umemiya!"


    Horrified, I peered up at Aikawa while he held me tight. "I told you to stay back!"


    "I can''t. I plan to protect you, no matter what it takes."


    "Then I''ll attack you both!" Umemiya declared, sword raised in the air once more.


    Heart pounding in my chest, Aikawa spun us around to act as my shield.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    "No!" I screamed. "Stop it!"


    The warm night air changed moments after my desperate plea, turning ice-cold and biting at my skin. I became rigid, eyes widening in alarm as the hairs on my neck stood on end, recognizing the phenomenon. An invisible entity had made itself known by enveloping us with its presence.


    "What''s happening?" Aikawa asked, shaking from the frigid air.


    A fierce gust of wind burst forth, encircling us like a whirlwind. I gripped my chest, feeling a strange feeling tug at my heart.


    What is this? I''ve felt this sensation before.


    Umemiya shouted, the roaring wind almost blocking out his voice as he bellowed something incomprehensible. The gale grew in intensity, causing Aikawa to tighten his hold. I closed my eyes, grasping his arms with fear coursing through my veins.


    Then the freak blast of air vanished seconds afterward without a trace. Reluctantly, I pried open my eyelids. Aikawa hesitantly let go of me and glanced around the area, brows furrowed in confusion. I turned, chancing a glimpse at Umemiya. He was sprawled on the sidewalk several feet away from us, his wooden sword far from his reach and lying in the middle of the road.


    "What did you do?" Umemiya growled, glaring at me as he sat up.


    I opened my mouth to reply when a loud crunching sound came from the road.


    We looked toward it and spotted Umemiya''s shattered sword. The culprit was a black luxury car zooming down the street.


    "My sword!" he cried in horror, shooting to his feet.


    I took a nervous step back when his body began shaking with anger.


    Oh no¡­ He''s going to kill us.


    I grabbed Aikawa''s hand and made a run for it, pulling him with me.


    "Get back here!" Umemiya yelled, chasing after us.


    "No way! I''m not stupid! You''ll beat us up!"


    "Of course! You and your friends have made a laughingstock of me, and now you and your boyfriend destroyed my sword!"


    "B-boyfriend?!" Aikawa said, a blush on his cheeks.


    "Friends?! They aren''t my friends! I don''t have any! And this guy isn''t my boyfriend!"


    I weaved us through unknown streets and alleyways, relying on instinct alone. Umemiya was always trailing not far behind, no matter what I tried. Desperate, I crossed one of the streets when the light was red to escape¡ªAikawa hollering at me with terror. He followed us, too fueled by rage to care, his sights focused only on us and none of his surroundings.


    "Leave us alone!" I exclaimed as we turned another corner. "I''m not the one who lobbed your hair off or ran over your sword!"


    "You''d like it if I did everything you wanted, wouldn''t you?!" he roared. "Rumor has it I''m your lapdog!"


    "That''s not my fault! Everyone decided that on their own!"


    "And why would they think that if it wasn''t your fault?! I bet you spread the rumor yourself to get them off your back!"


    "I did not!" I said, insulted by the accusation. "If you want to blame someone, point the finger at yourself!"


    "What?!"


    "You''re the one who beat up Manta the day everyone saw me run away from him! None of this would''ve happened if you''d left him alone!"


    "He trespassed in our Best Place!"


    "Unless you''ve put your names on it, why''d he think someone''s territory is a cemetery?! No one normal would pick somewhere like that to hang out!"


    "HOW DARE YOU INSULT OUR BEST PLACE!"


    His fury-filled response only frustrated me further. "You know what?! Forget it! There''s no point in talking to you! You''re just like everyone else! All you people can believe whatever the hell you want to about me! I don''t give a damn anymore!"


    "You''re horrible at deescalating situations," Aikawa commented.


    I reacted to his statement by giving him a pointed glare.


    We continued running through town, with no particular destination in mind, until I made a sharp turn and entered a familiar street. The sight at the opposite end of the road was an unwelcome one. It was Funbari Hill Cemetery.


    "You have to be kidding me!" I snapped, fed up. "Whenever something happens, I end up here!"


    Manta and Yoh were probably in the cemetery giving Amidamaru the Harusame. I want to avoid running into them if possible. It''d only add fuel to the fire if Umemiya discovered they''d entered his Best Place, and it''s not a good idea to be seen with them.


    I tried turning left at the road in front of the graveyard, but the presence that''d inferred earlier returned and started pushing me toward it. Unable to stop, I bolted onto the road and approached the short stone wall surrounding its hallowed grounds.


    "H-hey! Isn''t that Umemiya''s territory?! Why are we running toward it?!"


    "Aikawa!" I said, letting go of his hand. "I''ll enter the cemetery while you run in another direction and escape!"


    "No," came his swift reply.


    "Don''t be a hero!"


    "I appreciate the sentiment, but I won''t leave you to fend for yourself!" I wanted to argue, but he spoke. "There''s no point in discussing this further. I won''t change my mind."


    I''m trying to protect him. Is that too hard to understand?


    I growled, turning my attention to the partition in front of us. Once within reach, Aikawa and I placed a hand on the cool stone wall and used our strength to leap over it.


    "You have a lot of nerve entering our Best Place right in front of me!" Umemiya shouted, following our lead.


    It''s not like I had an alternative. You put us in this position.


    The spirits haunting the cemetery watched as we ran down a long row of headstones, the presence guiding me toward the main pathway. I grabbed Aikawa''s hand, attempting to head for the entrance gate when I reached the path. Unfortunately, the presence had other plans as it made me run toward the stone stairs leading up to Amidamaru''s headstone.


    "Damn it! What are you trying to pull?!" I yelled at it.


    When the base of the steps came into view, I frowned. Manta and Yoh were walking down them, talking with cheerful smiles, blissfully unaware of the situation unfolding in front of them.


    "Manta! Yoh!" I shouted as loud as I could to warn them.


    They looked at me in confusion.


    "Himiko?!" Manta replied, bewildered by my sudden appearance and behavior.


    "Run!"


    Their gaze moved to the man pursuing us.


    "You!" Yoh said, surprise and recognition appearing on his face.


    Manta screamed in alarm. "It''s Ryu of the Wooden Sword!"


    "It looks like I''ll be able to kill two birds with one stone!" Umemiya exclaimed.


    "Yo!" Yoh said with a relaxed grin and wave.


    Incredulous looks appeared on my and Aikawa''s faces as we shouted at him. "What kind of reaction is that?!"


    "Yo, my ass!" Umemiya bellowed. "Because you messed up my hairdo, and she spread the rumor about me being her lapdog, I''m the laughingstock of the whole town... no, the world!"


    I couldn''t help but feel irked by the repeated false allegation but held my tongue as he continued to rant.


    "I will return the favor! Prepare yourself!"


    Letting go of Aikawa''s hand once we were at the steps, I grabbed Manta''s and Yoh''s, pulling them with me.


    "Don''t just stand there, run, you idiots!"


    They followed my suggestion, running up the stairs in an attempt to escape Umemiya''s wrath.


    "I thought you were afraid of midgets!" Aikawa exclaimed.


    An aggravated sigh came from my lips. "That''s your ludicrous conclusion! I''ve said nothing of the sort!"


    "Then why''d you run away from him?"


    "It''s complicated."


    "Complicated?"


    I looked forward, refusing to reply while the three boys threw questioning stares in my direction.


    After we reached the top step, we rushed toward the second set of stairs on the other side of the hill. Unfortunately, halfway there, I tripped on a rock and fell.


    "Himiko!" Manta and Aikawa shouted with horror.


    I tried to scramble to my feet, but Umemiya was already standing above me with his fist raised. An alarmed gasp escaped my lips the moment he flung it at me. I squeezed my eyes shut and lifted my arms in a lame attempt to defend myself, but the pain never came. Instead, another powerful burst of wind materialized as a strange feeling entered my heart once more.


    "H-how are you doing this?!" Umemiya said, taken off guard.


    I lowered my arms and opened my eyes.


    A tornado was swirling around me, shielding me from his assault. I sensed the unknown spirit that had appeared tonight, still by my side. No doubt, it was somehow responsible for the wind.


    Umemiya stood his ground, digging his heels into the dirt while struggling to get to me.


    "What''s going on?!" Manta asked.


    The twister increased in size and intensity, causing Umemiya to fly back and land onto the ground several feet away. A few moments passed, and I thought he''d fallen unconscious until his legs moved. He slowly lifted himself off the ground, glaring at me with unprecedented fury.


    I stood and stepped back, nervous about what he''d try to do next.


    His gaze drifted to the boys standing behind me.


    I spun around to warn them. "Run!"


    "I may not be able to attack you, but I won''t let them get away!" Umemiya snarled, charging toward them.


    Instead of running, Aikawa confronted him. He sent a fist in his direction, but Umemiya dodged and punched his stomach with full force. His eyes widened as pain wreaked havoc on his body. Umemiya didn''t give him a chance to recuperate and kicked his abdomen, sending him flying. He hit the ground, rolling until coming to a stop at the edge of the bridge.


    "We told you not to get involved! You should have listened!"


    "Aikawa!" I gasped in horror.


    Manta was next on the list. While he was staring at Aikawa''s fallen form, Umemiya kicked him square in the jaw. He, too, went flying and landed next to Aikawa.


    "Bastard¡­" Aikawa said, trying to push himself off the ground.


    "Why?" Manta asked, pushing himself up onto his hands and knees.


    Yoh rushed to their side, concerned. "You okay?"


    Umemiya picked up a Tobha standing upright next to a nearby headstone.


    "You should worry more about yourself than others!" Umemiya said, swinging at them.


    Aikawa narrowly avoided his attack, along with Yoh, who wrapped his arms around Manta to pull him to safety.


    "Wait!" I shouted as they ran to the middle of the bridge.


    I attempted to run to them, but the wind still whirling around me strengthened. The presence wanted to stop me from getting involved. I dug my feet into the ground, stealing my resolve, and fought to come to their aid.


    I don''t care what this spirit wants! I will not stand by and watch as they get beaten! They''re in this situation because of me!


    "Don''t expect me to forgive you with that little bit of punishment!" Umemiya said.


    "Aren''t you over-reacting?!" Yoh asked. "It''s only hair!"


    "That''s not the only reason! This is still my Best Place!"


    Umemiya swung his weapon, forcing Yoh and Aikawa to hop back a little to avoid it.


    "Stop it!" I begged, managing to take a few steps forward.


    "Since everyone is annoyed with you, go find somewhere else to terrorize!" Yoh shouted.


    Aikawa looked at him, confused. "What?"


    "Everyone?" Umemiya scoffed, swiping at them.


    Aikawa jumped back to put distance between himself and Umemiya. Yoh ducked instead and was nearly hit when the older male swung down at him quicker than expected.


    "That was close," Yoh said, sighing with relief.


    "There is no need to dodge!"


    Worried, I watched as Aikawa threw all caution to the wind and charged forward. His fist connected with Umemiya''s face, causing him to stumble backward. As he went to attack again, the seasoned fighter recovered and struck his stomach before he could hit him. Eyes wild with rage, Umemiya began to repeatedly swing at Aikawa, each attack hitting its mark. The brutal assault ceased when he sent him soaring into the air with a powerful kick.


    After Aikawa crashed onto the other side of the bridge, he focused on Yoh and Manta. Yoh wasn''t able to evade his next attack. Both younger boys slammed into the ground, landing next to Aikawa. Umemiya walked up to their fallen forms and began beating all of them without mercy, taking advantage of their weakened states.


    "Let me help them!" I bellowed, anger and desperation flowing through me.


    Somehow, as if an opening in the whirlwind opened up, I was able to run forward unhindered by it, despite its strength and intensity. I charged toward Umemiya from behind, removing the strap of my bag from my shoulder as I prepared to hit him with it.


    "Looks like you''re cornered now," Umemiya said, not noticing me approaching him.


    Yoh, Manta, and Aikawa were now at the base of Amidamaru''s headstone, beaten and bruised.


    "That''s what you think!" I retorted.


    Umemiya spun around as I reached his location. I twirled, grip tight on the bag strap, and hit him square in the head with my over-stuffed bookbag. Because of its weight, the surprise attack nearly knocked him off his feet. He took several steps back, trying to recover. Knowing I had to do something before he regained his senses, I kicked his side with my left foot.


    He grunted with pain as he flew through the air. His body hit the tree near Amidamaru''s headstone before falling to the ground.


    "A-amazing," Yoh and Aikawa said with shock.


    I stared at Umemiya''s fallen form before the reality of what I''d just done hit me. I dropped my bag, horrified.


    "Oh no," I groaned, holding my head in misery. "I attacked him! He''s going to kill me!" I looked at Yoh, Manta, and Aikawa with a glare, pointing at them. "This is your fault! You all should''ve stayed home instead of visiting the museum! If you had, this wouldn''t''ve happened!"


    None of them had a chance to respond to my accusation. Umemiya groaned, and we all turned our attention to him as he slowly sat up. The rage in his expression caused me to take a nervous step back as I watched him with wariness.


    "You''re pretty persistent," Yoh said to him with a smile.


    "Should I finish all of you now?" Umemiya snarled, his sights set on me as he stood.


    "You should run," the shaman boy suggested as he stepped in front of me.


    "Don''t make me repeat myself!" I scowled, annoyed by the suggestion. "I won''t run and leave either of you behind!"


    "Good!" Umemiya roared, charging toward us. "Then I''ll be able to take you down with them!"


    "Lord Yoh!" Amidamaru shouted from above.


    "What?!" Aikawa shouted.


    Perplexed, I looked over at him. His eyes were following Amidamaru as he shot toward Yoh.


    No. He can''t see spirits too. It''s impossible! He doesn''t feel like a shaman!


    The presence wrapped around me and tugged my body several feet back as if someone was holding me tight in their arms. This time I couldn''t move as it kept me in place.


    "This is the end!" Umemiya shouted, swinging down at Yoh.


    Amidamaru forced his spirit into Yoh''s body and caught the Tobha with his bare hands.


    "Why?" Yoh asked. "This has nothing to do with you."


    I couldn''t hear Amidamaru''s response.


    "Stubborn."


    "W-what are you mumbling about?" Umemiya asked, annoyed and surprised Amidamaru caught his weapon bare-handed.


    "Are you ready?!" Yoh shouted, his attitude changing as Amidamaru took control.


    "What is this?" Aikawa whispered, horrified.


    With unrivaled strength, Amidamaru used Umemiya''s weapon against him and threw him into the tree. This time he fell headfirst onto the ground, indisputably unconscious.


    I let out a sigh of relief. "Finally."


    The presence holding me let go soon after. I secretly glanced around but never saw its identity. Meanwhile, the distance between the spirit and me increased until the frosty air disappeared. However, I still sensed someone watching me nearby.


    Is this strange presence the reason I always feel I''m being watched? Why would it choose to follow my every movement if that was the case? Why would it protect me? It isn''t a regular spirit. I can''t see it. However, it''s powerful, whatever it is. An ordinary ghost cannot manifest a whirlwind or touch me like a corporeal person.


    I don''t like this situation. I don''t need a spirit following me around. I want nothing to do with them.


    "Thank you," Yoh said, breaking the silence. "You saved me."


    My gaze shifted to him. Amidamaru was floating in front of him, staring at Yoh with a warmth in his eyes I couldn''t explain.


    "Now go," the shaman boy continued. "Mosuke is waiting for you."


    "It seems like I can''t do that anymore."


    "Huh?"


    Amidamaru stared at the sky with a faint smile. "Even though I would like to follow Mosuke, it looks like it''s going to be a while before I get to go to the otherworld."


    Manta groaned when he tried to move. "Ow..."


    Aikawa screamed without warning. I jumped, startled, and snapped my gaze in his direction. He pointed at Amidamaru, stuttering incoherent words before fainting.


    We looked at him with sweat drops on the back of our heads.


    Perfect. Now he can see ghosts too¡­


    "H-hey," Yoh said, crouching down to wake him.


    I tiptoed to my bag and picked it up, deciding to leave without being noticed.


    I need to put distance between us and escape this blasted cemetery. More than enough has already happened tonight.


    "Wait!" Yoh said once I''d reached the Shinto shrine.


    I froze, caught red-handed.


    Damn.


    "What about your friend? Are you going to leave him here?"


    "There''s somewhere I need to be," I lied. "I''m sure you can handle him."


    "What?!"


    I started to walk away.


    "H-hey!"


    A sigh escaped my lips, and I stopped again. "What?"


    He paused, then spoke. "Thanks."


    "You have nothing to thank me for. It was your actions that saved us, not mine."


    He fell silent.


    I seized my chance and began walking away again, feeling his gaze on my back. This time, he didn''t stop me.


    And for that, I was relieved.


    For nothing good could ever come from associating with a shaman.

 Chapter Eight: The Dangerous Boy

    Chapter Eight: The Dangerous Boy


    Monday. The first day of the week.


    Warm rays of sunlight peeked out from behind the mountains, bathing Funbari with golden light. The bright blue sky had white fluffy clouds scattered across its surface. Dozens of birds trilled while resting on branches of green-leaved trees. The temperature was more favorable than the weekend, despite the weather forecast.


    To most, it''s the perfect morning.


    And I dreaded every second that passed.


    Every action meant I was one step closer to dealing with what would greet me at school. My apprehension only worsened as I stepped out the door. The unpleasant sensation of the obscure spirit watching me from somewhere nearby, coming back full force.


    Thoughts of Aikawa, Umemiya, Yoh, Manta, and the unknown presence have plagued my mind since Saturday night.


    It''s unnerving that a spirit''s been haunting me. The distressing discovery has left me with more questions than answers. Regardless, I''d already reasoned that it''s best not to ask for an explanation. I just needed to focus on how to deal with it. It''s not wise to leave it be and allow it to continue hovering around me. However, it''s also important to not draw attention to the situation with my precarious circumstances.


    Then there''s the problem of Umemiya. Gone are the days I could wander aimlessly around the city. He has a legitimate reason to pursue me with even more vigor now that I''ve attacked him. My only remedy is to live confined to home and school. Although, with my horrible luck, he''ll still find me.


    My cousin and Yoh were also becoming harder to deal with. Everywhere I turn, they''re always there even though I try my hardest to avoid them. And Yoh''s growing too comfortable talking to me when we meet. Manta must have told him we''re related... The very thought of it makes me uneasy. It wasn''t something I wanted to become public knowledge, especially with my cousin''s new budding friendship with the shaman boy. I didn''t want my name to be brought up in any conversations involving them, given their ability to see spirits. They''ve become akin to pariahs, and I know what''d happen if my mother found out.


    Worst of all, though, is Aikawa. His newfound ability to see ghosts was an unpleasant surprise I hadn''t expected. I''d have difficulty avoiding him since he sits next to me during class. Not to mention everyone will point the finger at me when they see he''s beaten and bruised. They already blamed me for Umemiya hurting my cousin. I can only imagine what his fan club and friends will do to me.


    While waiting for the light to change, I sighed, shoulders slumping. "I''m screwed."


    No matter what I do, the situation keeps escalating and spiraling out of my control... Maybe I should skip school. My mother''s wrath couldn''t be worse than this, right?


    The pedestrian crossing sign started beeping, pulling me from my thoughts. I sighed again, stepping forward with the other people next to me.


    Although I want to avoid everyone at school, keeping things quiet at home is more important.


    Why?


    The heart-wrenching torment and anguish expressed within the simple word made me pause halfway across the street. I gripped my chest and glanced around, searching for the child who''d spoken, but found no one.


    Why is everyone dead?


    The moment he posed the distressing question, I froze with a sharp breath as sweat gathered on my brow. An all too familiar pulling sensation had inundated my senses, someone calling out to me nearby. However, this time was different. It was more powerful, resonating within my very soul and causing me to feel their pain, leaving me trapped in its inescapable grasp.


    Why do you kill everyone?


    I looked toward the crosswalk opposite mine, perceiving he was there.


    A teenage boy with purple hair caught my attention, his aura the same as other shamans I''ve met. He was standing in the center of the street, gazing in my direction, brows furrowed in confusion while staring at me. His striking gold eyes drew me in the most. There was something indescribable and dangerous lurking within them.


    Why are people so rotten?


    His lips never moved, but I knew he''d been the one to speak despite the voice within his soul differing with his age.


    I stood there, taking in his appearance as a gentle wind caressed his thick cropped bangs and the spike of hair pointing up at the back of his head.


    He was an attractive boy for his age, albeit a few inches shorter than me. The black shorts, green tie hanging from the white collar of his pristine button-up shirt, and gold suit-jacket revealed the school he attended. It was a rival school of our junior-high division.


    Someone collided with my shoulder as they walked past. Reality struck, the trance broken. Fear shot through me as thoughts of what would happen if I lingered flooded my mind. I quickly headed toward school to escape without another glance in the boy''s direction.


    I don''t need another shaman on my hands. One was enough.


    The five-minute bell chimed when I stepped into the classroom, my heart hammering inside my chest. Aikawa was already at his desk, bent forward with his head nestled into his arms. His friend sat sideways in his chair, eyeing him with a worried frown.


    "What happened to you?" he asked.


    Aikawa grunted without raising his head.


    Nervous, I silently walked forward and sat down next to him with as little noise as possible. Black, blue, and green bruises covered the skin on his arms and hands where Umemiya had hit him. Thankfully, I couldn''t see the rest of his body.


    "Hey," his friend said, concern for him growing.


    He sighed, lifting his head with visible effort. "What?"


    I winced, studying his broken lip and the massive bruise on his cheek. Prominent black circles were under his eyes, his gaze full of exhaustion. He hadn''t been sleeping. I wasn''t sure whether it was from excruciating pain or his new ability to see ghosts, perhaps both.


    Weighed down by guilt, I looked away from him and clenched my hands into tight fists.


    Why didn''t he just listen to me? This wouldn''t''ve happened if he''d done as I told him.


    "You''re hideous! Have you gone to see a doctor?"


    Aikawa lowered his head back into his arms. "Shut up!"


    "What happened?" his friend persisted. "You look like you''ve been in some big fight! You didn''t somehow get in trouble with Umemiya''s gang, did you?"


    "It''s nothing."


    "Nothing?" he replied skeptically. A few moments later, he threw an accusing look my way. "Chibana had something to do with it, didn''t she?"


    Aikawa paused, then raised his head, eyes wide. "What?"


    "Wakana saw her leaving the cemetery Saturday night." His friend glared at me. "Did you send Umemiya after him too, Chibana? Wanted to teach him a lesson for teasing you the other day?"


    I didn''t respond, peering at my desk with a frown. No matter what I said to defend myself, no one would believe me. I don''t know what I''d say even if I tried. What happened to Aikawa the other night was my fault. I should have dealt with Umemiya before he was hurt.


    "It was nothing like that!" Aikawa bellowed, shooting to his feet and slamming his hands onto his desk.


    I stared at him, eyes wide in awe, amazed he''d defend me after all that''d transpired. Everyone in the room fell silent, watching the exchange.


    "She did nothing wrong! She tried to protect me!"


    His friend frowned at him, unconvinced.


    The response made Aikawa''s glare worsen, his anger flaring. He opened his mouth to say something else, but the bell ringing cut the conversation short as our teacher walked into the room. Thankful for the start of school, I pulled out my things and began disregarding everyone around me and engrossing myself in my studies.


    Lunch arrived a few hours later. I stood, bento in hand, and walked away, intending to search for a temporary hiding place. My old one wasn''t good enough since Manta had found me.


    "Itsu¡ª"


    "Himiko," Aikawa said, cutting his friend off and using my first name.


    Bewildered by his informality, I paused and looked back at him. "Y-yes?"


    He was still sitting at his desk, arms crossed and brow furrowed with irritation. His hostile demeanor continued, unchanged since this morning. The boy in front of him blinked, perplexed.


    "I want to talk to you."


    "Itsuki?"


    Aikawa stood, ignoring his friend a second time, eyes focused on me.


    "What?" I replied, feeling wary.


    Whatever he wants to talk to me about can''t be good.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    "Come on," he said, grabbing my wrist.


    "H-hey!" I said as he dragged me forward. "Don''t I have a choice?"


    He stopped, glancing at me from over his shoulder. "I can carry you if you want."


    "W-what?!" I asked with a blush, scandalized by the mere suggestion. "No way!"


    "Then you better come with me," he replied, amused.


    I couldn''t stop the huff that escaped my lips as he walked onward with me in tow.


    Today''s turning out to be one hell of a day...


    Aikawa led me into the hallway, not releasing his hold on my wrist. People gathered in the wide corridor, talking with their friends as they headed to their usual lunch spots. One of them was a boy from the soccer team.


    "Hey, Ai¡ª" he said, greeting my unlikely companion before his voice trailed off, recognizing me.


    The boys with him froze, gawking at us as we passed.


    I fought off a frown.


    Great. News of us being together is going to spread like wildfire. I should have skipped class today.


    Tired, I ignored the multitude of stares we received as we walked through the building.


    We walked through a deserted hallway, leftover dusty desks and chairs stacked along its edges. A hidden staircase, blocked off by a steel barricade, was at the end.


    "Hey," I said, peering at him with suspicion.


    "What?"


    "Where are you taking me?"


    "The roof," came his nonchalant reply.


    I blinked at him, trying to absorb his words. "What?"


    Surely, I didn''t hear him right.


    "It''s fine," he replied, brushing off my concern as he climbed over the barricade. "I''ve been up there plenty of times."


    "What?!" I exclaimed, disbelief in my voice.


    He covered my mouth, alarmed, scrutinizing the hall behind me. "Shush! Do you want us to get caught?"


    "We''re not supposed to go there!" I said through his hand.


    Not to mention it''s haunted. The girl who jumped off the roof is hanging around. I''ve seen her.


    He blinked, surprised. "For someone who''s always running into trouble, you sure worry about the rules."


    And for someone who''s the class president, you don''t worry enough! Aren''t you supposed to be enforcing the rules, not breaking them?!


    He removed his hand from my lips.


    "Come on," he said, coaxing me toward the stairs with a gentle tug on my wrist.


    I stared at him, then sighed, giving in to his request. Aikawa smirked, knowing he''d won. I climbed over the barricade, then let him lead me up the staircase. When we reached the door at the top, he fumbled with the handle until it turned and threw it open.


    The roof beyond it was empty. Several pairs of lacey underwear lying on the ground indicated people were using the area for questionable things. Old benches were scattered across its surface, where students once sat during their class breaks.


    He pulled me toward the closest bench and sat down. A frown appeared on his lips soon after.


    I couldn''t blame him. The ghost girl was floating above us, a dark, ominous aura surrounding her like she wanted to put a curse on us.


    "Do anything indecent, and I''ll haunt both of you for the rest of your days!" she shrieked. "Don''t you have respect for the dead?"


    Aikawa broke into a cold sweat, his hold on my wrist tightening. I pretended like she didn''t exist, keeping my expression neutral.


    "What did you want to talk about?" I asked, getting straight to the point.


    I want to leave as soon as possible. The vibes this spirit is putting off are creeping me out.


    He gave a weak smile. "You don''t beat around the bush, do you?"


    "I''m not one to make small talk."


    It''s not like most people want to talk to me, anyway. You''re the only one strange enough to seek me out whenever I''m nearby.


    "Can you see them?" he asked, pointing at the threatening girl next to us.


    Eyes widening, my heart started racing.


    His straightforward question took me off guard.


    I had a feeling our conversation wouldn''t be pleasant, but I didn''t expect him to ask me if I could see ghosts.


    "Wait¡­" she said, anger shifting to surprise. "You can see me?"


    "See what?" I said, regaining my composure and feigning ignorance.


    "Spirits. Ghosts. Specters. Apparitions. Take your pick on what you want to call them."


    "No."


    He stared straight into my eyes, gaze piercing through me. "You''re lying."


    "I am not," I replied defensively, breaking his hold on my wrist.


    "Then why are you acting like this?"


    I frowned. "Like what?"


    "You''re tense."


    "I don''t know what you''re talking about," I said with a scoff.


    He studied me, skeptical. "Then explain why one protected us. Why did he save you in the cemetery?"


    Wait. He can see it? Then, why can''t I?


    "HEY!" the girl shouted to get our attention.


    I jumped in surprise, not expecting it. Aikawa noticed, smirking in triumph.


    I bristled. "I don''t know what you''re talking about."


    "Don''t lie," he said, his frustration becoming apparent.


    "What are you, a regular mindreader?" I replied, snapping at him.


    "What are you trying to hide?"


    "What are you trying to prove?!"


    "You were there. You saw what happened!"


    "I CAN''T SEE THEM!"


    We glared at each other, neither budging an inch.


    "U-um..." the girl said, nervous.


    I closed my eyes, taking a deep breath to calm myself.


    Continuing this argument is pointless. We''re at an impasse. I can''t convince Aikawa he''s wrong, and he can''t get me to admit that I can see spirits.


    "I''m going to give you some words of advice," I said, gazing into his eyes. His brow furrowed in confusion, but he didn''t interrupt as I continued to speak. "Stop trying to prove that ghosts are real. It won''t go well for you."


    "Is that a threat?" he asked, frowning.


    "It''s a promise. Remember what happened to Oyamada?"


    "Is that why you''re pretending you can''t?"


    A frustrated sigh escaped my lips.


    He''s as stubborn as a mule.


    "Why does it matter?" I said, exasperated.


    He hesitated, rubbing his neck and looking down with a blush. "I want to learn more about you and why I can see them."


    My eyes widened. Warmth entered my chest from Aikawa''s words, soon followed by pain. A myriad of emotions were flowing through me: happiness, surprise, confusion, but also sadness and loneliness as his words sunk in.


    His wish isn''t something I can give. I distance myself from everyone because of my ability to see spirits. Now his newfound ability gives me no option but to cut ties with him. His latent power wouldn''t have awakened if we''d never met. If I stayed by his side, it''d cause more trouble for us both.


    I must close my heart to protect him.


    "I''m sorry. I can''t let you." His head snapped up, mouth opening to reply. I spoke before he could. "However, Oyamada and his friend might be able to help you. They were there too, weren''t they?"


    Despite me believing it''s a bad idea to associate with a shaman, Yoh''s the only person he can speak to about the situation.


    "How can they help?" he asked, frowning once again.


    "His friend''s a shaman¡ªa person who connects this world with the next. I''d think that''d make him qualified, wouldn''t you?"


    "What about you?"


    "I assure you I''m not involved in that kind of stuff."


    My mother and her husband will already have a fit if they realize I can see spirits let alone me becoming a shaman. That''s not a scenario I want to contemplate.


    "That''s not what I meant. Why won''t you let me know more about you?"


    "It''s better for us both if we keep our distance."


    His eyes widened. "What?"


    "Trust me. It''s safer that way." He looked like he wanted to argue, but I spoke again. "I won''t change my mind, so don''t waste your breath."


    My fierce, determined gaze made him fall silent.


    "Lunch will end soon, so I''ll leave you to talk to them if you''re going to."


    He didn''t stop me as I walked away.


    Goodbye, Aikawa. Thank you for at least wanting to be my friend.


    He didn''t speak to me for the rest of the day. Aikawa acted as if he might say something several times, but I pretended he didn''t exist until he gave up. My cold, indifferent behavior toward him became the final nail in the coffin and solidified our now estranged relationship.


    His behavior didn''t go unnoticed by his friend. After school, he shot a dirty look in my direction and pulled Aikawa aside to talk with him. I gathered my things and fled to avoid a confrontation. Once I reached the hallway of the first floor, I froze. Aikawa''s fan club was standing nearby, outrage written on their faces.


    They spotted me at the same time I noticed them.


    "Chibana!"


    I ran in the opposite direction.


    "What?!" they shouted.


    "She''s running! After her!"


    Damn it! My day just keeps getting worse!


    I ran through the school, dodging groups of stragglers still in the halls. Halfway down the next corridor, a window was wide open to let fresh air into the building. Determined to escape, I stopped in front of it and put my foot on the window frame to jump through it.


    "Oh!" male voices from below exclaimed in amazement.


    I landed in a crouched position, then stood, shifting my gaze behind me.


    Three boys were sitting underneath the open window. Stupid grins spread across their faces as blood came from their noses. My face reddened, knowing they''d seen underneath my skirt.


    "Perverts!" I bellowed.


    One of the girls chasing after me followed my lead. "You''re not getting away from us!"


    I ran.


    Our game of cat and mouse lasted a minimum of thirty minutes. I found a spot deep underneath the outside bleachers to hide, hoping no one would look for me. And it was a success. Relieved, I stayed hidden and pulled out my books to study.


    A few hours passed while I waited for cram school. The blue sky changed to deep orange, darkening until it was hard to read with the slivers of light passing through the seats. I stuffed everything inside my bag and ventured out from underneath the bleachers, making sure the coast was clear.


    The soccer team was on the field, focused on practicing for their upcoming match. Thankfully, Aikawa wasn''t with them despite being the captain of their team. The coach must have told him he couldn''t participate until he recovered. They''d need their star player in tip-top shape when they faced their biggest rivals in a couple of weeks.


    I walked forward, trying to reach my locker. Tired from the day''s events. At the corner of the grassy field, my bag ripped open, all its contents falling onto the ground. I looked at the sky, exasperated.


    "Really?" I asked myself.


    I knew it would rip at the most inconvenient time. I should''ve asked my mother to buy me another one.


    Frustrated, I bent down to pick everything up. Once I''d gathered it all into my arms, I stood. I took one step forward, then paused. The pulling feeling from the morning returned, assaulting my senses. The new shaman boy was somewhere nearby. I knew it deep within my heart.


    Unable to move, I remained frozen in place, wanting to run but being forced to stay.


    When the boy walked around the corner of the school building, panic consumed me. His cold gold eyes scanned the area until they stopped, landing on me. Our eyes met, his widening as they took in my form. Like before, I felt an intense connection linking us together that I couldn''t begin to understand. Along with it came a mixture of familiarity that hit me like a ton of bricks, tugging painfully at my heart.


    I fought against it, shaking my head to reel myself back into reality.


    No. I can''t allow myself to have another flashback, not now.


    A hostile glare appeared on his features, the dangerous look hidden deep within his eyes increasing ten-fold. My body instinctively became tense, a shiver going down my spine.


    What kind of precarious situation have I landed myself into this time?


    "Who are you?" he demanded.


    "W-what?" I asked, ready to run at a moment''s notice.


    "Do not make me repeat myself."


    "I don''t know if it''s wise to tell you."


    Appearing to be losing his patience, he pulled out a metal object that pieced itself together and formed a guandao.


    "Who are you?" he repeated, his glower worsening as he pointed the blade at me.


    Who the hell is this kid?! It''s not normal to carry weapons like that around! It''s longer than he is tall!


    A giant ancient warrior spirit with glowing red eyes materialized behind him, adding to the boy''s already intimidating appearance. Over his white long-sleeve top, green and purple armor with gold trimming protected his upper body. The metal helmet he wore concealed the upper half of his chiseled face with darkness. On his shoulders was a frayed blood-red cape that boosted his threatening persona.


    "All right!" I shouted against my better judgment, nervous about what either might try to do to me. "All right! My name''s Himiko Chibana! Now put that weapon away before you hurt someone. You don''t have to attack me!"


    His eyes slowly widened as he lowered his weapon, shock evident on his face. "Himiko... Chibana? You''re Himiko?"


    He peered at me with something resembling recognition, a look in his eyes I couldn''t describe.


    "Y-yes," I said, confused by his reaction and wary. "Have we met before?"


    I''m pretty sure I''d remember meeting a boy like him.


    "No," he admitted. "I¡ª"


    Something hit the back of my head. I stumbled forward, pain engulfing my senses, and nearly fell to the grass.


    "Ow," I muttered, gingerly touching the back of my head.


    I looked around for the offending object that hit me until my eyes landed on a black and white soccer ball.


    "Sorry," Aikawa''s friend said from nearby, sounding unapologetic. "Somehow, we lost control of the ball."


    Anger flaring, a pretend angelic smile came to my lips. "I see."


    It didn''t take a genius to realize they''d kicked it at me on purpose. I turned toward him, gazing into his remorseless brown eyes.


    "I understand."


    His eyebrows furrowed in confusion as I approached the ball. I brought my foot backward, still looking straight at him, then swung it forward and kicked the ball, the smile on my face turning into a dark scowl. It went straight into his face, causing him to fly back.


    "THERE''S YOUR BALL BACK!" I roared. "ASSHOLES!"


    The rest of his team screamed in alarm as he crashed to the ground and rushed toward him.


    "To hell with this!" I shouted with fury. "I''ve had it!"


    I marched away, leaving them and the shocked shaman boy behind.