Chapter 36: chapter 36: leaving and hoping to never cross paths
Kousei 'Yue, I want you to understand something important
I began, my gaze softening as I spoke
Kousei: you're not defined by where you came from or the circumstances of your past. You're exceptional just the way you are. Look at me—I have these weird abilities, a strange past life, and yet my family still loves me. And they'll love you too, just as you are.
She looked up at me, her eyes filled with a mix of gratitude and uncertainty.
Yue:But what if they find out about... about what they did to me in that lab?
A protective instinct surged within me.
Kousei:Yue, you're not defined by the actions of others. You're not a creation of that lab; you're your own person. And as for your past, if you choose to share it, they'll understand. Trust me, my family has been through some unusual situations, and they've always been supportive. They'll help you heal.
Her small hand grasped mine, seeking reassurance.
Yue:Promise you won't leave me alone.
I smiled warmly, squeezing her hand gently.
Kousei:Yue, I promise. You won't be alone. You've got me, and soon you'll have a whole family who cares about you. And I'll protect you from anything that tries to hurt you. You deserve happiness and love.
As we continued talking, Yue's eyes sparkled with newfound hope.
Yue:What's it like to have a family?
she asked, curiosity lacing her voice.
I settled back against the bed, reflecting on the warmth and support my family had given me.
Kousei:Family is where you find love, understanding, and a sense of belonging. It's a place where you're accepted for who you are, and where you find support in both good times and bad. Your new family will be there for you, just like I will.
Yue's expression softened, and she smiled shyly.
Yue:I've never had a family before. What if they don't like me?
Gently lifting her chin with my hand, I reassured her,
Kousei:Yue, trust me. They'll love you. You're an amazing person, and anyone would be lucky to have you in their life. Just be yourself, and you'll see how quickly they'll come to care about you.
She seemed excited about the prospect of having a family.
Yue:Really, I get to have a mom and dad, another brother, and a sister?
I nodded, sharing in her enthusiasm.
Kousei:Yes, Yue. And they're wonderful people. They'll make you feel at home, just like they did for me.
As Yue drifted into slumber, I couldn't help but feel a sense of responsibility and warmth toward her. With the promise of a new family, I looked forward to introducing her to the love and care she deserved.
I rose from my bed, the morning sunlight filtering through the curtains, casting a warm glow in the room. Yue, who had found refuge in my home, was still asleep. Her peaceful slumber provided a stark contrast to the upcoming farewell. Lint, Nero, and Vali stood in the doorway, their expressions a mix of exhaustion and anticipation.
Lint began, her voice tinged with sincerity,
Lint:Kousei, this journey, though unexpected, has been one of revelations and challenges. We've faced formidable foes together, and your strength, both in cultivation and character, has been impressive."
I glanced at her, my response curt,
Kousei:It's been a journey, nothing more. Our paths were intertwined by circumstance, not camaraderie.
Nero interjected
Nero:Kousei, you may not see it, but the battles we fought together forged a bond. We faced dangers as a team, and that means something.
My gaze shifted to Nero, my words cutting through the sentiment
Kousei:Bonds forged in battle are transient at best. Once the enemy is vanquished, so is the connection.
Vali, usually unfazed, spoke up,
Vali:ou don't have to be so cold about it, Kousei. We've shared victories and defeats. A simple acknowledgment would suffice.
A small, wry smile played on my lips,
Kousei:Acknowledgment implies a level of importance. Our interactions were circumstantial, nothing more. There's no need for sentimental farewells.
Lint, seemingly hurt by my indifference, sighed,
Lint:You may be right, Kousei. Our paths might never cross again. But remember, we were allies once, and if the need arises, we won't hesitate to stand by your side.
As they left the room, the weight of their words lingered. Yue stirred in her sleep, and I found myself contemplating the transient nature of alliances. The bonds formed in the crucible of battle were ephemeral, easily severed once the threat was gone. As the door closed behind them, I couldn't deny the sense of isolation that settled in.
Ever since yue's treatment I have nothing to say to them we're not friends
As I prepared to part ways with those who had shared my recent journey, I couldn't shake the feeling that our paths, though diverging for now, might intersect once more in the tumultuous tapestry of the supernatural realm.
Vali sighed, breaking the tense silence.
Vali:Kousei, why are you so cold? What's wrong?
I continued my tasks, deliberately avoiding eye contact with her.
Kousei:Why don't you figure it out yourself?
She persisted
Vali:Did I do something to upset you?
I scoffed
Kousei:Do you really need it spelled out? Or are you playing innocent?
Vali seemed genuinely puzzled
Vali:I don't understand. We fought side by side, and now you're treating me like an enemy.
I shot her a sharp look.
Kousei:you and the rest were ready to kill Yue without proper investigation. What kind of monsters are you?
Vali's eyes widened in realization.
Vali:you're upset about the devil god project. Kousei, . Our duty is to eliminate potential threats.
I clenched my fists.
Kousei:Potential threats? She's just a child! Did you even bother to consider alternatives before jumping to conclusions?
Vali tried to explain
Vali:ousei, it's not that simple. We've seen the havoc these experiments can wreak. It's about preventing tragedy.
I snapped back
Kousei:Preventing tragedy by becoming the cause of one? How noble.
She looked genuinely hurt.
Vali:I thought we were a team. Why are you pushing me away?
I sighed, pausing my tasks to finally face her.
Kousei:You don't get it, do you? We're not on the same side if you're willing to sacrifice innocent lives without a second thought. I can't trust someone like that.
Vali's expression shifted from confusion to remorse.
Kousei:kousei, I never meant to...
I cut her off
Kousei:save it. I'm done here.
Ignoring her protests, I focused on Yue, who was still clinging to me. Vali watched silently as I comforted the frightened girl, the rift between us growing wider.
As we settled into the vehicle, Yue nestled into my lap, her eyes wide with wonder as she took in the towering skyscrapers surrounding us.
Yue:Big brother, what are these tall buildings?
Yue asked, her small hand pointing at the impressive structures outside.
I smiled at her curiosity,
Kousei:Those are called skyscrapers, Yue. They are very tall buildings with many floors. People work and live in them.
She continued to gaze out, absorbing the cityscape.
Yue:Are we going to live in a building like that?
I chuckled
Kousei:No, Yue, we're not. We'll be living in a more ordinary place. Skyscrapers like these are usually for offices or apartments.
Vali, who was seated across from us, spoke up,
Vali:Kousei, I understand the decision you've made. It wasn't easy for either of us.
I nodded
Kousei:yeah, it's better this way. We have different paths to walm
Vali looked out the window, her expression pensive.
Vali:Maybe our paths will cross again in the future.
I hope not
"Who knows," I replied, my attention shifting back to Yue.
Kousei:We're starting a new chapter, Yue. A new home awaits us in Kuoh.
She beamed,
Yue:I can't wait! Big brother, is it going to be as tall as these buildings?
I chuckled
Kousei:Not that tall, but it'll be a nice place. And you'll have a room all to yourself.
Yue's eyes sparkled with excitement,
Yue:Really? A whole room just for me?
Kousei:Absolutely
I affirmed, ruffling her hair.
Kousei:You'll have your own space to play and sleep.
The vehicle continued its journey through the bustling city, and I couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. Leaving behind the supernatural adventures and the camaraderie with Vali was bittersweet, but a new chapter awaited—one that promised a sense of normalcy and family for Yue.
As we approached Kuoh, the anticipation in the air was palpable. The skyscrapers gradually gave way to a more residential landscape, and I knew our new life was about to begin.
As we reached Kuoh and settled into Azazel's place, we decided to keep certain details, especially about Yue's true identity and the devil god project, to ourselves. The meeting with Azazel focused more on the broader events in Shibuya, omitting specific details that might raise unnecessary concerns.
Azazel, being Azazel, welcomed us with his usual laid-back demeanor.
Azazel:So, what's the scoop? You guys always bring the most interesting stories.
I shared a modified version of our recent adventures, emphasizing the encounter with powerful monsters and exorcists rather than delving into the devil god project. Azazel listened intently, occasionally nodding and asking questions to fill in the gaps.
When the conversation turned to Yue, I introduced her as a girl we rescued from a dangerous situation, leaving out the specifics of her origin. Azazel, perceptive as ever, raised an eyebrow but didn't press further.
Azazel:Well, welcome to Kuoh, Yue. If you ever need help adjusting, you've got friends here.
Vali played her part in maintaining the secrecy, skillfully avoiding any mention of the devil god project or the complexities that unfolded in Shibuya.
As Azazel excused himself, he left us with a casual remark,
Azazel:Remember, the supernatural world can be unpredictable. If you ever stumble upon something you can't handle, don't hesitate to reach out
We assured him we would and watched as he left, leaving us with a blend of relief and lingering tension. The challenge of navigating the supernatural world while safeguarding Yue's true nature loomed ahead. With a shared glance, Vali and I acknowledged the unspoken pact to protect our newfound companion.
Kousei: azazel we need to talk
I was being serious
Azazel:Kousei, what's going on?
Azazel questioned as I called out his name, our arrival at his place drawing his attention.
I took a deep breath, my gaze shifting between Azazel and Vali.
Kousei:Azazel, from now on, Vali and I won't be working together.
Vali's eyes widened in surprise, her usual composed demeanor faltering for a moment. She sighed, a mixture of understanding and hurt in her expression.
Azazel raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued by the unexpected announcement.
Azazel:Care to explain?
I hesitated, choosing my words carefully.
Kousei:There are personal matters that I need to handle, Azazel. Matters that I can't risk involving Vali in.
Vali, trying to grasp the situation, pressed for more details.
Vali:Kousei, after everything we've been through, you can't just cut ties like that
Azazel looked at me with a mixture of surprise and concern.
Azazel:Kousei, you've been through a lot, and I understand your emotions are running high. But splitting up with Vali may not be the best solution.
I crossed my arms, my expression resolute.
Kousei:Azazel, she agreed with them, with the idea of killing a child. I can't just overlook that. No matter the circumstances.
Vali interjected, her voice steady.
Vali :did what I thought was necessary for the greater good. It's not about hating or wanting to harm Yue.
I shot her a cold look.
Kousei:For the greater good? Vali, there are lines we don't cross. Killing a child is one of them.
Azazel sighed, realizing the gravity of the situation.
Azazel:Kousei, Vali, we've been through tough times together. I won't force you to work together, but I hope you can find a way to reconcile. We're a team, and our strength lies in unity.
I shook my head.
Kousei :can't, Azazel. Not after this.
Yue, sensing the tension, tugged at my sleeve.
Yue:Big brother, are we not friends with Vali anymore?
I crouched down to her level, a soft smile on my face.
Kousei:Yue, we're still friends, but sometimes friends need space. We'll be fine.
Azazel looked at Vali.
Azazel : I hope both of you find a way to make peace with this. We have morechallenges ahead, and unity is crucial."
Vali nodded, a hint of regret in her eyes.
Vali :understand, Azazel.
As we left Azazel's place, the air was thick with unresolved emotions. The decision weighed heavily on me, but I couldn't compromise on my principles.
Yue clung to my hand, looking up at me.
Yue:Big brother, are we really not working with Vali anymore?
I sighed, ruffling her hair.
Kousei:For now, Yue. We'll figure things out.
Little did I know, this decision would set the tone for the challenges that lay ahead, testing not only our strength but the bonds that held us together.
As I opened the door mom and dad are seen in the living room
"Hey, Mom, Dad," I greeted with a smile as I stepped into the living room.
Mom looked up from her book, and Dad lowered the newspaper.
Mom:Kousei! How was the competition in Shibuya?
Mom asked, her eyes curious.
Kousei:It was great, Mom. I even made a new friend there
I said, glancing at Yue, who was shyly standing behind me.
Dad raised an eyebrow playfully.
Dad: new friend, huh? Well, introduce us!
I gestured towards Yue.
Kousei:this is Yue. She's the friend I mentioned. We met in Shibuya, and she needed a place to stay, so I thought, why not bring her home?
Mom's eyes softened with warmth.
Mom:Oh, how lovely! Nice to meet you, Yue.
Yue peeked out from behind me, offering a timid smile.
Yue:Hi, Mrs. and Mr. Kousei's parents.
Dad chuckled.
Dad:just call us Mom and Dad. No need to be formal.
Mom patted the empty space on the couch.
Mom:Come, join us. Kousei, tell us more about the competition and how you two became friends.
As we settled in, I shared the non-supernatural version of our Shibuya adventure, emphasizing the fun parts and the moments Yue and I connected over shared interests. Mom and Dad listened attentively, occasionally exchanging amused glances at the more entertaining parts of the story.
After a while, Mom stood up.
Mom:Well, since we have a new guest, why don't we make something special for dinner? Kousei, show Yue around the house while I prepare something.
I nodded, leading Yue through the rooms, explaining each one and answering her curious questions. Despite her initial shyness, she started to open up, and by the time we returned to the living room, she seemed more comfortable.
Mom called us for dinner, and we all gathered around the table. The dining room filled with the aroma of Mom's delicious cooking. As we ate, Dad engaged Yue in casual conversation, making her feel more at ease.
By the end of the meal, Yue was smiling more freely, and Mom suggested that we make her stay longer.
Mom:yue, you're welcome to stay with us as long as you need. We're delighted to have you here.
Yue's eyes sparkled with gratitude.
Yue:Thank you, Mom. I really appreciate it.
Dad grinned.
Dad:We're like one big family now. Kousei, you did well bringing Yue here.
As we enjoyed dessert and shared laughter, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the warmth and acceptance my family offered Yue. Little did we know, this seemingly ordinary evening would become the start of a unique journey, weaving unexpected bonds that transcended the supernatural world we were part of.
Issei entered the room, his expression bright and full of energy.
Issei:Hey, Kousei! Long time no see, buddy!
He gave me a playful punch on the shoulder before turning his attention to Yue.
Issei:Who's this little cutie?
Issei's eyes sparkled with genuine curiosity as he looked at Yue. She, in turn, peeked out from behind me, a bit shy but clearly intrigued.
I chuckled, introducing them,
Kousei:issei, meet Yue. Yue, this is Issei, my younger twin brother.
Issei grinned, crouching down to be at eye level with Yue.
Issei:Well, hello there, Yue! You've got a cool big brother, you know. He might not admit it, but he's pretty awesome.
Yue gave a small, hesitant smile, still adjusting to the presence of a new person. Issei, ever the charmer, continued chatting with her,
Issei:So, Kousei told me you guys went through some crazy stuff in Shibuya. Must've been intense! But hey, you're safe now, surrounded by amazing people.
I joined the conversation,
Kousei:issei, Yue's been through a lot. We're thinking about adopting her.
Issei's eyes widened in surprise, a mix of emotions crossing his face.
Issei:Adopting? Seriously? That's a big step, bro
Issei exclaimed, clearly caught off guard but supportive.
Issei:Well, Yue, if you're joining this wild family, get ready for some eccentric siblings, including this guy.
Yue giggled softly, finding Issei's friendly banter amusing. Issei stood up, ruffling my hair,
Issei:Looks like our little Kousei is growing up, making family decisions and all. I'm proud of you, bro.
I rolled my eyes at the hair tousle,
Issei:Cut it out, Issei. And yeah, it's a big decision, but we're considering it carefully.
Issei nodded thoughtfully,
Issei:Well, you've got my support. Family sticks together through thick and thin, right?
As we continued chatting, I could sense the camaraderie building between Issei and Yue. Issei's easygoing nature and Yue's gradual comfort around him painted a picture of a future where our family expanded, embracing new connections and shared moments. It was a scene filled with laughter, acceptance, and the promise of a unique bond growing between my younger twin brother and the potential newest member of our family.