Work Text:
- Let's Go Drink Some Coffee!
"Ichimiya-kun, could you give me a hand with going over these documents? Sorry to put this on you, but my back's been aching from sorting through all these requests…”
"President! I hate to trouble you with this, but there seems to be a problem regarding the sponsors of the upcoming festival. Goto-san is dealing with it but—"
"Now don't forget that you'll be having your exam tomorrow, class! This will take up a large percentage of your overall grade, so make sure to study hard, starting from chapter six to the latest one."
Ichimiya-kun. Ichimiya-san. President Ichimiya. Ichimiya-kun! Ichimiya-san!! President!!!
AAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!
As a result of the weight of his head, specifically the forehead that Ichimiya banged against the keyboard, the sound of clicking reverberated in the silence kept within the dim Student Council room, blinds closed and only a single fluorescent lamp turned on, shining right onto Ichimiya like a spotlight. Thank God that he was the only one left here— how else could he explain his sudden breakdown?! Not even an actor of his echelon could avoid that!
Ichimiya allowed a quiet groan to slip out, shoulders melting out of pure exhaustion that had accumulated for the past week. Why had he chosen to embody this persona in the first place...? At this point, there's no way he could allow anyone to see the president this weak, but how could he not be tired?! Exams piled upon more exams, the upcoming festival, the endless requests from clubs and students and teachers alike...
Ahh... I wanna play games... or maybe some sugar. Yes, sugar sounds amazing right now.
But...
There's no way Ichimiya, the cool-headed Student Council President, could be caught drinking any type of sugary treat. Both hands pulled at his hair while he bit the inside of his mouth, lips pursing as the gears in his head worked overtime to weigh his options. Duty and desire, desire and duty. Well, it's not like anyone was watching...
At the rattle of the doorknob, Ichimiya instantly moved with the precision of a needle, posture now pin-straight and eyes laser focused on the blinking cursor on the open file. There goes his dreams of sweet, sweet cocoa . A saddened sigh echoed only in the safety of his own head.
Ichimiya looked up to meet widened eyes belonging to Usami, jaw briefly dropped before his figure cranked up like a soldier would, falling into a perfect ninety degree angle. "I deeply apologise for my intrusion, President Ichimiya, sir! I wasn't informed that you would still be here!"
"As someone part of the Student Council, you should know better to knock before entering a room of any kind, Usami."
The other boy stiffened, his body curling in further to create a concerningly acute angle. "I sincerely apologise! I will keep that in mind and do better for the sake of the image of the Student Council!"
Dismissing Usami with a wave of his hand and a hum, Ichimiya forced his leadened mind to return to the laptop. Everything from head to toe felt heavy that he had to keep himself up with a palm against his temple, which then ran through blue strands as his fingertips, frozen from the blasting AC, kept him awake. He has to finish this by tonight. At least before the night guards locked everything up. He has to .
He... There's no way he can do this!! But he has to!!!
There was a weight that pulled at his eyelids, a haze that fogged both his vision and his mind, the tempting lull of a machine-like hum that reminded Ichimiya so much of video games that he had left playing during the early dawns of middle school, as well as a... voice? Someone calling out for him... ah.
"President?! Are you alright?"
Ichimiya pinched the bridge of his nose with a clenched jaw, cursing himself for allowing Usami to witness that spectacle of his. "Pay it no mind. If you're done with your duties, pack up. I'll be leaving as soon as you do."
With the temperature dropping to sub zero degrees (according to Usami), the half-blond yelled, quickly collecting the freshly printed files as shivers crawled at the dark expression the president made. "Yes, sir!"
Was he waiting for me to be done? Usami wondered, stepping out of the room with a bow. President Ichimiya is truly amazing! He could almost feel a tear fall at his thoughtfulness. However, as his steps reverberated in the empty hallway, the presence of the council room's door heavy, Usami couldn't help but note— was it just him or did the president look more tired than usual?
Oh well, this was the job of the president's right hand man! A newly discovered determination glowed as deft hands opened a chatroom with someone named 'asshole', fingers slightly hesitating at first.
[Usami]: Nika!!! Do you have any coffee packets at home??
[Asshole]: ? Why would I?
This might be a problem.
—
"What are you doing here at this time?!" Usami shot an accusing finger at the person that had just walked in, face frustratingly smug as Nika placed down a plastic bag, clearly just bought from the nearest convenience store.
"After all that talk last night, did you think that I wouldn't be worried for the president as well?" Packets upon packets of instant coffee of all kinds, even a kettle , were set upon the table with professional measure. Nika gave him a lilting smile which boiled Usami's urge to punch something, or some one .
Arms crossed, Usami clicked his tongue, pulling out a brown packet that he had stolen from his kitchen, scratches all over. It probably belonged to his dad, who knows. Coffee was something he rarely drank in the first place. "Tch. I shouldn't have asked you in the first place.”
"But you did." Nika cracked open a water bottle, filling the kettle before clicking it on. "Unfortunately for you, I only drink tea. Though my taste might be too spicy for the president, and you don't exactly look like the type for coffee, so I went ahead and bought these for him."
"What, you mean you’re wasting the student council's funds?"
"It's an investment that I spent on, with my own money. Aren't you the accountant here?”
Usami made a sputtering sound before grabbing his own ingredients with more force than necessary, including a kettle of his own. "Fine! For the president, I'll make the best coffee ever that even coffee connoisseurs will weep out of happiness!"
Nika huffed in amusement, eyes glinting with competition. "Don't come crying when the president compliments my coffee instead!”
Once the clock struck 6:30 AM, both arms of the students raised in unison as though time had ticked to a stop in a cooking show, just in time with a rapping knock that caused them to move instantaneously. In a blink of an eye, all the trash disappeared from sight, as did the two kettles that are now sitting quaintly on a corner desk, perfectly hidden from view.
"Good morning, President Ichimiya!"
The booming voices nearly shook Ichimiya's soul out of his body, to which he immediately dragged back with a stern expression. Ichimiya nodded at the two as he approached his seat, his gaze stuck at the unwavering figures now positioned in front of his desk. I didn't think these two would come so early, is there an occasion I wasn't aware about?! No, meetings are never held before classes and there were none scheduled to begin with— unless they required him to go over something? In that case—
"Nika. Usami." Ichimiya pulled his laptop out, as well as some papers while silent dread crept on his skin. "Did you have any business with me at this time?"
"Not at all, president!" It was almost funny how Nika and Usami were always in complete sync, not dissimilar to machines wired to one another, no matter how many times they would compete over the most measly things to high stake ones, from Ichimiya's attention to their actual duties.
Hm? What are these cups?
At the curious stare Ichimiya pointed at the cup he was sloshing around, Nika took the liberty to explain with a raised hand, "ah, this is both my and Usami's doing. We tried to think of a way to increase the Student Council's productivity, and coffee seemed like a simple step to start with in order to energise ourselves. Especially since I noticed that the president looked rather exhausted and swamped in work these days."
"Hey! This was initially my idea!" Usami whispered, shoving an elbow at him. However, they immediately froze back to their previous stance when Ichimiya made a low hum.
"I see." Not bad, you two! Having a selection of beverages in the council room could be a hand in increasing their overall morale. That was, if only he liked coffee... Although, this cup had more of a sweet smell to it, sweeter than the typical instant coffee. "What coffee is this?"
By then, the crippling realisation that caused Usami to nearly stumble to his knees was paired with Ichimiya's stirring excitement (which was hidden from sight, of course) when Ichimiya brought the cup to his lips, its smell more than familiar and definitely not one that belonged to coffee. The bitterness of coffee had taken over the entire room, so this sweet, sweet scent that Ichimiya craved for days went by unnoticed at first.
How the hell did I not realise that the packet I brought wasn't coffee?! Usami could feel sweat beading on his forehead, his palms and knees shaky once he actually registered the chocolate-y smell. The president’s going to kill me!!
Nika would be chuckling at Usami's misery if there wasn't a heated glare, narrowed at the two with an intensity that could burn the entire school and its occupants alive. Well, in retrospect, it was also his fault for not noticing…
Alas, this was how the president's right hand men died, the sentiment rang in the suffocating silence. At least it was by their dear president's hands.
Ichimiya's lips quivered at the awaited hot chocolate that he could finally drink with no consequences, his entire figure trembling in restrained delight. It took everything in his power to contain the pull on his lips and the urge to just chug the holy liquid with uncharacteristic gracelessness. He is an actor, the best one anyone could ask for!
Nonetheless, it'd be a waste if he didn't finish it, right?
Ichimiya allowed himself to a few more sips. Yummy ... If he were a cat, he's sure he would be purring to the max at the warmth that pooled in his chest. Oh, how he missed hot chocolate! He couldn't let them know that, though. "Which one of you made this?"
Blue eyes fell to the currently kneeling half-blond, his arms rooted to the ground and head hunched down. "It was me, president! I deeply apologise for my mistake! I am ashamed to admit that I didn't realise that it wasn't coffee—"
"It's fine." His smooth voice cut through the apologies as though it was butter, causing the two to snap their heads at him in surprise, breath hitching. "I don't mind it as much as you think. Just make sure that elementary mistakes such as this can be avoided when it comes to major events, since even the slightest of errors can be critical to seemingly faultless schemes. Got it? ”
The two had risen by then, hands in their backs as they yelled in militaristic fashion: "Sir, yes, sir!”
The president is truly amazing...! Such wise and insightful advice!
As expected of the president—! His way of thinking transcends even the wisest of sages!
"Now, go to your classes! Don't forget that punctuality is a requirement for students like you!" Ichimiya rose sharply, a scowl tugging at his lips as his right hand men scrambled to leave, a pair of 'yes, president!' reverberating in return. Tch. Ichimiya was sure those two had exams first thing in the morning. He'd be lying if he said he wasn't flattered, but they seriously have to manage their own priorities!
Once the sound of their steps faded into the hallway, Ichimiya was left with the fading flavor of chocolate in his mouth and uncontainable glee. Finally! Gloved fingers wrapped around the white mug as he welcomed the sweetness with a pleased smile. Stars must be shining and popping around him like a soda's fizz, or it could be a bouquet of flowers blooming from the chocolate-y warmth. Needless to say, he ought to repay Usami for this, one way or another!
"Guess it was a win for me, huh? Usami?"
"Shut it!"
- Let's Run From The Cat!
Ugh?! Why are you here?!
Ichimiya shot a glowering glare that could live up to even the devil's at the perpetrator that jolted him out of his thoughts. " You—! ” He hissed, pulling his leg away from the creature attempting to bat at the hem of his pants. Jomaru! And right when he was about to leave school too?!
He knows about my true identity! Ichimiya decided with a sensation of fearful dread obstructing his throat. Stay away from me! Nothing I have needs to be solved! Shoo!!
Even his ice cold stare was fruitless in its endeavors! Teeth gritting under the scowl Ichimiya made, he stomped his way past students who instantly scattered at the dark aura emanating from the president, shivers rising up their spines.
You're going to ruin my image that I worked so hard on building! Ichimiya cried inwardly. Half of his walk home was simply spent on flinching away from any physical contact Jomaru attempted on inciting, his meows growing more and more annoyed at every failed try. Thankfully, he seemed to give up during the other half when Ichimiya sped up, determined to reach home before Jomaru could eat his 'worries' away— only after making sure no one he knew was watching.
Although the first time was a success, even though it included Ichimiya falling to the ground with his back against the front door in sheer exhaustion, he couldn't exactly say the same for the upcoming days.
Unfortunately, it appears as though Jomaru wasn't the only one that noticed Ichimiya's so called worries. These past few days, more and more eyes have been burning through his back. Though they always disappeared, albeit momentarily, whenever Ichimiya turned back (except for one belonging to the pesky feline that still followed him around), they never failed to reappear mere seconds later. Curiously, this only happened if Ichimiya was in school grounds, and occasionally, when he was near it.
Could it be the work of spirits?! His breath hitched at that, excitement coursing through his blood to the point of trembling all over. But if that's true, that means they know about his mask. And if they know and he involves the Phantom Busters—! AAAGGGHHH!! His identity will definitely be revealed!!
No, no! Think, Ichimiya! If it were spirits, there would be no need for them to hide. He wouldn't be able to see them, anyways, as much as he wanted to. Had something happened recently that would prompt some people to begin stalking Ichimiya...?
Something furry nudged at his leg once again as Ichimiya approached the entrance of the school, making him let out a surprised yelp. However, before he could react any further, a collection of hushed whispers made Ichimiya freeze in place. Despite his best efforts, he failed to discern any specific words, yet the voices in question melted any hint of genuine uneasiness.
Ah. So it was the work of those four.
No wonder Ichimiya had been walking alone in the halls lately.
"Hmph." The corner of his lips twitched inconspicuously, like a brief flicker of streetlights. Fingers tightened around his bag's straps while he was on his way to the Student Council room, where the steps that were trailing Ichimiya gradually became more audible, more confident, and familiar.
He was not going to confront them now. Later on, Ichimiya would have to catch them in their act— like a detective! Or better yet, like paranormal investigators would!
Wait, but... does that mean that they suspect something about him like Jomaru does?!
There's absolutely no way Ichimiya could let that happen!
Gripping the doorknob tightly, pristine gloves dug the skin beneath his nails with an imperceptible quiver. Ichimiya turned to face the four Student Council members, his gaze sweeping past and through them like glacial wind. "Shall we begin the meeting?"
“Yes, president!”
Once golden light bled through the blinds and tinted papers that were strewn about, they unanimously decided to conclude the meeting as most of their discussions had been settled, more or less. Most of the time, however, Ichimiya was sure that every single person in that room had something in their mind. They would have been bound for some scolding if only Ichimiya didn't have the same problem!
Ichimiya scowled. When did he start allowing trifling problems such as this disturb his duties? Discipline and self control is crucial to the image of an ideal student council president— he had implemented that sentiment in every waking hour of the day, even when it meant sacrificing certain aspects of himself.
But—! If they know, everything he had painstakingly built will fall apart. They would lose their trust in him and lose the figure of a president, all at once!
"I'll be leaving first." Ichimiya began, items already tucked in his bag. Each and every pair of eyes immediately shot up, to which he tilted his head at, curious, yet menacing at the same time. "I have some personal business to attend to. We'll be in touch regarding the matter with the sponsors soon." I feel terrible for tricking you all, but I have to! For the sake of the Student Council and this school!!
Suppressing a bated breath as he traversed through the turning halls, finding his way out of the building with eyes that warily scanned his surroundings, Ichimiya soon perked up at the sight of white fur once he turned a corner. I'd never thought I'd say this, but Jomaru! Blue eyes blazed with a taut smile. Come with me!
"Meow?" Jomaru stared at him lazily, a slow blink meeting a piercing stare. The knowing glint in his beady eyes made Ichimiya sure that he had heard him loud and clear, yet the cat made no attempt to move. After a moment of heated, one-sided eye contact, Ichimiya turned with a huff, heading towards a deserted area in the back of the school with Jomaru in tow.
Ichimiya's legs were rooted on a patch of withered grass by the time Jomaru made his approach, circling around his foot twice before he settled down with a yawn. Jomaru is just a cat, after all. A formidable cat that might know his deepest and darkest secret.
Arms crossed and clutching the fabric at hand, Ichimiya spoke up, his voice low and sinister that its iciness became palpable on skin. "You four! I know you're there. Come out here and explain what you've been doing."
Audible sputtering behind concrete walls was what he got in return. After a few beats of hesitant silence, the four student council members finally revealed themselves with varying degrees of remorse, mostly in the extreme zone when it came to a specific duo.
Ichimiya narrowed his eyes, expression dark and furrowed as he posed a quiet question that rang in the suffocating air, as though oxygen had transmuted into poison that wrapped its tendrils around them. "Do I need to repeat myself?"
"We're terribly sorry, President Ichimiya!"
Usami and Nika were the first to break under the ever-growing pressure, falling to their knees with a thud. "President! We are so, so sorry for invading your privacy! We all just noticed how—"
"This was my fault in the first place, senpai!"
All of Nika and Usami's ramblings were effectively shut down at that, jaws dropped in preparation of a counter as surprise became imminent in everyone present.
"Yotsuya-chan—!" Goto exclaimed until she noticed the younger girl's shaky fists.
The brown haired girl gritted her teeth, head hung down while she forced out, "a few days ago, I noticed how Jomaru-chan was following the president around. I thought it was simply a coincidence at first, but out of curiosity, I watched them for a while— yet Jomaru-chan hadn't left the president's side at all!"
Yotsuya broke herself off with a hitched breath. Hazel eyes lifted themselves off the ground and shone directly at Ichimiya, her expression furrowed with a palm on her chest. "We all know the rumors about Jomaru-chan, so I got worried and asked the other upperclassmen for advice. Not only that, I was also the one who suggested following you— even when it wasn't the right course of action!" Her fingers clenched around her beige blazer. "For that, I beg of you to not punish them!"
"Yotsuya-san, you..." Usami breathed out before he quieted down, eyes connecting with Nika who nodded.
However, before any of them could start, Ichimiya raised a hand in a halting motion, gaze pinned onto Yotsuya. "Could you explain why?"
"...Why?"
Ichimiya nodded before clarifying, "Why did you decide that following me would assist you in your current... problem?"
Her lips thinned into a line, as though she was taken aback by the question. "Because I wanted to investigate first-hand what was bothering the president before bringing it up."
"That's right!" Goto chimed in, "Yotsuya-chan's observations weren't the first ones too, y'know? She merely took the first step before the rest of the student council did, right, you boys?"
The two boys nodded vigorously, a type of passion shining in their eyes. "President, we want you to use us as you see fit, but we also want to help you whenever any kind of problem arises, regardless of whether it's personal or not!" Nika's gaze flickered towards Usami, who immediately added:
"You've helped not only me, but also everyone else in countless ways. We don't want the president to shoulder anything alone, so please! We are your hands, your pieces, as well as your friends— though, only if you allow us to be!”
This ... All the air left Ichimiya on his own. Every pair of eyes that were stuck on him were practically mirrors of one another, the same glint of concern burned through the words on his tongue, leaving him thoroughly speechless for once. This was everything he had never expected to happen.
Even so, he couldn't help but be relieved that his fears hadn't come true. Ichimiya took a shaky breath, repressing the tears that came with it. "You're all fools..." The whisper fell with his head, as did the weight from before. There was a warmth that enveloped Ichimiya at that very moment, causing a brief smile to slip out. "I'll keep that in mind. Thank you. I apologise for worrying you all as well." I'm really really sorry, everyone!!!
President...! That smile, however small, was brighter than the sun itself in another's perspective.
"However, this does not mean that you are all off the hook! I understand your reasoning this time, but there better not be a next to this!"
"Sir, yes, sir!!"
Ichimiya heaved out a sigh, about to walk away when a weight perched itself onto his right leg, causing him to nearly stumble much to everyone's alarm. "Ack—! You— get off me! Jomaru!! "
"Meowww." (Translated by a humble cat whisperer: "This is a win for me.")
- Let's Buy The Limited Edition Plushie! (Super Secret!)
Ichimiya felt his whole world stop in its tracks during his fifteen-minute study break. His beating heart was practically forcing itself out of his chest, a loud gasp escaping while his entire body shot up, eyes too immersed in the image glowing on his phone screen. Vaguely, Ichimiya was all too glad that he was home alone at this very moment— else he might explode from unrestrainable glee.
An extremely limited monster plushie from his favorite video game! 20 cm tall, new colors, and a special design of Ichimiya's all time favorite!! And it even comes with a keychain version!!! Even though he hadn't been able to play this game for ages, Ichimiya's passion for it had not depleted by even a drop. Instead, his yearning for it intensified by every passing day of missing more and more new updates.
Some sacrifices must be made, but this was not one of them! Ichimiya will do anything to get his hands on it— just this once!
With exceedingly rapid speed, his fingers flew to each and every source of information, determined to set up an intricate plan to obtain the treasure. That was, until Ichimiya slumped and screamed when he realised that this saturday will be their last restock. At a quick glimpse at the calendar that circled said date with their school's annual festival, one he had been gruelling over the past few weeks, Ichimiya began to tremble, already at a loss. Not only that, today was a friday! Tomorrow was the only day he had left!
If he didn't buy it tomorrow, there's no saying that he would ever see that piece of merchandise again. That thought in itself was enough to incite dread in the pit of his stomach. Yet... Ichimiya's schedule was full to its brim. Eyes were going to be on him no matter when or what he does...
But what if he did buy it? Without letting anyone else know? All Ichimiya would need was an interval of time where he will be freed of any task and people.
Perfect! Oh, what a genius he is!
Pulling up a timetable with all the planned events of the day, time had slipped as easily as sand would while Ichimiya remained hunched over his desk, his excitement pumping in enough energy to keep him awake for hours on end.
Although, for such a busy day, he maybe should have slept for more than four hours.
Sunlight streamed past the line of windows as endless greetings flooded in and out of his ear, the crowd dispersing into a path for Ichimiya. Ugh . He'd give anything to lock himself in a room just so he could lie in the middle of a classroom and catch up on rest. The amount of nods Ichimiya made in return made him feel like a lucky cat's paw that he'd find in restaurants, every ounce of attention heavy on the back of his neck— in addition, his shoulders were killing him for sleeping in that position!
Endure it. You're the president, after all!
Once each and every student scrammed to their own classrooms to prepare the finishing touches, Ichimiya slipped away to the Student Council room, phone in hand with a number already being called.
Step 1: Complete all your duties!
As the president that oversaw every single activity, there was absolutely no way he could slack off. Blue eyes swept past the empty spaces and tower of boxes, a mental checklist and a stack of important notes already in tow. First, Ichimiya must make sure that there weren't any unexpected problems that might hinder his plan. It wasn't as though his members weren't capable, far from that. It was simply logical to verify the facts.
Ichimiya hummed, smartphone propped against his ear as the line connected. "Nika. Is everything going fine?"
" Yes, sir! Everything is going smoothly! Currently, Usami and I are keeping an eye on the class events while Yotsuya-san and Goto-san are in the food festival. Goto-san insisted on dragging Yotsuya-san around, so ..."
He let out a curious hum under his breath, watching over the growing crowd among food stands. "I see. Provide any updates in the group chat if anything seems to arise. If this level of peace continues, you can visit your own class and give them a hand." Ichimiya took a quick glimpse at his watch. "I'll look over the main auditorium in five minutes."
" Sir, yes, sir! We'll catch up right away! ”
As if the gods were on Ichimiya's side, absolutely nothing had happened. Every set of performances went by without a hitch, as did the food stands and the classes' events. They even got to enjoy the festival itself with leisure. Although once in a while, one or two of them had to run across school for an issue or two, none were pressing enough to be much of a headache. Thank you, Gods! As well as the Student Council for making this possible!
I should treat them to something for today's success... Ichimiya thought absentmindedly as he strolled through the halls. But is my allowance enough to allow that...? Ah, nevermind that. It was time for step 2!
Step 2: Find a reason to leave school grounds!
Restocks will drop at 3 pm, right when activities begin to slow. However, that's exactly when it was the calm before the storm— especially for a class like his that chose a café as an attraction!
"President Ichimiya! There's no need for you to buy the ingredients for us—!" A classmate of his exclaimed, loud enough to catch the attention of other patrons. "Thank you for your offer, but I couldn't possibly allow you to...!"
"Nonsense." The girl let out a silent 'eek!', backing away as Ichimiya pried the list from her fingers. After a quick scan, Ichimiya nodded. It doesn't seem that difficult. The list was rather complete too, with a specific brand cited beside each ingredient. Good thing he helps with cooking once in a while, or else even this might become an insurmountable task! "I have some business in the area as well. It isn't right if I don't give my own class a hand in trivial errands such as this."
A group of students had crowded around him by that point, faces of awe and admiration along with profuse thanks given to him in every way possible.
An exhausted huff left Ichimiya as he made his way towards the grocery store, catching a quick glance at the hobby store that just so happened to stand beside it. I still have 30 minutes until it restocks . Palm clenched into a determined fist, Ichimiya strided in with long steps akin to a commander with purpose, one about to face a decisive battle against the deities of time.
Step 3: Finish your current task before restock drops!
Flour, sugar, salt, chocolate bars— all done. All that's left was to find some milk and... wait. Wait . There's no way. No. Nonono nono no! Why are they here?! Why are Mogari-kun and Yotsuya-san here of all places?! Wait, why them of all people?! I thought they hated each other??
AGHHHH! Regardless! They couldn’t know that Ichimiya was here. He must avoid them at all cost, or else his entire master plan will be at stake!
"I guess milk cartons will be my last destination for now." Ichimiya exhaled, backing away slowly before speed-walking once he was out of potential sight. What was it that he needed? Apples. Right. A batch of apples.
Apples successfully obtained, even when it required the help from a sweet old lady who noticed Ichimiya staring blankly at the mountain of apple varieties, his speed gradually picked up at the realisation that he had about 15 minutes left. He's far too deep to give up now—!
Just pick up the milk carton and go. Shopping basket raised to his chest like a shield, those words rang like a prayer in Ichimiya's head before he lost all control of his limbs, paralysed by the sight beholding him.
Why were they still here?!
There they were, blocking the refrigerated rows of milk as they stared down at one another, expressions dark as though someone had just insulted not only their entire existence, but also their lineage from beginning to end.
"Are you stupid?! If you want to make a proper custard pudding, you're supposed to use whole milk. Whole! Milk!" Yotsuya jabbed at Mogari's chest with every word, earning a loud 'knock it off!' from the latter. "I'm only helping because Korekishi-kun asked, yet you're making this so much harder for me! We don't even need that much milk!"
"Ehh... but what difference will it make? It's just milk." Mogari grumbled while throwing in more milk cartons, including every available flavour but whole milk. The shit-eating grin plastered on his face that forced Yotsuya into stifling a punch spoke volumes.
"Besides," Mogari flailed his arms around. "I wanna try out every possible combination! That's part of the fun, right? Not like you'd kno— huh?" Red eyes blinked before widening, staring right at Ichimiya’s frozen figure. Sirens immediately began to blare. He's so done for!! "Isn't that Student Council President Ichimiya?"
"What?" The student council member snapped her head towards his direction, eyes widening as he approached them, albeit involuntarily. "President?! What are you doing here?"
"I had some errands to run." He motioned at the raised basket, to which Yotsuya made an understanding nod at, briefly stating that she was here to do the same, with some unfortunate company. Before any more disputes could break out, Ichimiya swiftly cut in, "Now, if you'll excuse me."
The two immediately broke away once Ichimiya made his approach— curious glances, barely discreet, shot at him. As the desired ingredient was finally safe in his hands, Ichimiya was more than ready to head out; that was, until he realised the set of students trailing behind him.
"I thought you two had something to do?" Ichimiya muttered darkly, his narrowed gaze a juxtaposition to the perpetual screaming in his head.
Shivers shot up their spines as they straightened up. Mogari, equipped with a carton of whole milk in each hand, spoke up with a grin," We're more or less done! Since we're all going back to school, might as well go together, y'know? The more, the merrier!" His voice then fell into a whisper, yet it was still audible enough for the entire row to hear. "Also cause I don't think I can stand being in the same space as her for much longer."
Yotsuya scoffed, arms crossed with a darkening glare. "The same goes for me. I don't see what Korekishi-kun sees in you at all."
"That just means that Koreshiki has better taste than you!"
"Huh? As if!"
"Cut it out." As much as their banter was somewhat interesting to Ichimiya, time was ticking and he didn't have the luxury to laze around. That already took away nearly 10 minutes— he needs to figure out a way to shake them off! Stat!
Ichimiya swiped the last item as he glanced at the first years who were still going through the pile of colorful milk cartons in the self-checkout, seemingly never-ending as Yotsuya glared daggers into them. This is his chance! "I have some business in the area." The plastic bag dug into the crevices of his fingers as Ichimiya stepped away, a slight tremble in them. "It won't take long— I'll be back by the front of the grocery store in a few minutes."
Without waiting for an approval, Ichimiya rushed towards the next-door store with as much calmness as he could muster, leaving the two surprised students staring at the empty space and each other with questions in their faces.
Squeezing through the half-packed establishment, Ichimiya made his way to join the newly formed line. He couldn't suppress the excited smile at the realisation that he was fifth in line, his position allowing him to admire the rows of monster plushies the staff were replenishing. There's so much—! And they look even more amazing in person!
This is step 4: Successfully obtain the treasure! Ichimiya was so , so close— ack. What was that eerily familiar, white spiky hair in the corner of his eye?
As inconspicuous as he could, Ichimiya sneaked a glance at the figure standing between the shelves, poring over manga with a passionate intensity. The uniform was the same as his, dyed hair, scars on both uniquely colored eyes— Kanzaki-kun of Phantom Busters?! What was he— AAGGHHHHHH?!? Had Ichimiya jinxed himself or did fate choose to betray him?!
Ichimiya frantically followed the moving line, shoulders coiled inwards as if making himself smaller could erase his existence from this very plane. If he doesn't look at him, he wouldn't notice Ichimiya. Yea. That's right. Kanzaki seemed too immersed in whatever he was browsing through as well.
Cool air entered his lungs as Ichimiya closely watched the cashier's movements, noting that it was almost his turn with clenched palms and bitten lips. As long as Kanzaki-kun doesn't decide to leave at the same time as him, everything will be fine!
There was a heavy pause hanging in the air as Ichimiya took a step forward. He could only stare at the cashier, head tilted and gaze unconsciously firm, in confusion when no sound came out of the man's slightly open mouth. "...Excuse me?" Came Ichimiya's low, concerned voice. Had he done something?
"Ah— ah! My apologies, sir!" The man stumbled before quickly falling into a customer service smile. That was a scary look... "Is there anything I can do to assist you?"
After a wary scan of his surroundings, he pointed at the limited row of plushies behind the counter, as well as the smaller keychain version. "Those, please."
Ichimiya hastily went to pay, giving nods and short responses whenever it was necessary. Everything was a tumble of emotions stirring the pit of his stomach— elation, anticipation, dread that something would pop this bubble of his. Nonetheless... Even with all the ups and downs Ichimiya had to tread through, the final step of his foolproof plan was completed, and he successfully reached his goal!
Hehehe—! The automated doors opened to allow the student, a paper bag pressing against his chest in a hug, to leave. Although, Ichimiya's attention was mostly on how soft the deep purple fabric was against his palm. Finally, a long-awaited addition to his collection! I can't wait to put it up—
"You— aren't you the president?"
Why had the world forsaken him at this very moment. Ichimiya screamed, silent and unmoving.
Expression schooled, hand that was in the paper bag now dangling by his side, Ichimiya turned back with the smoothness of a rusted machine. Alike stares clashed with one another, restrained and piercing and unrelenting. Ichimiya would have all his teeth grinded if he didn't stop clenching his jaw anytime soon, but so would Kanzaki at how intense the glowering look was shot at him.
"President..." Oh God. This is the end of Ichimiya's time as the Student Council President. Goodbye, two years of hard work. No— he couldn't give up as easily as that—! "Do you like manga too? Or video games?”
I do!! I really, really do! Especially ones that involve the occult! But as someone with a reputation to keep up, he couldn't exactly announce his unconventional interests to the world. Ichimiya nearly convulsed at pent up concoction of emotions, ready to deny every claim at any given moment, yet the glimmer of genuine interest in the purple-green eyes made him halt against his will. Kanzaki seemed... hopeful? Or was he excited?
"Ah! It's Zaki!" A booming voice cut through the tense atmosphere like paper being ripped. Mogari-kun! I never thought I'd be glad to see you right now! The first year student waved, approaching them with Yotsuya in his wake. "What are you doing here? I thought you were helping Tamon with the cake?"
That appeared to shake Kanzaki out of his stupor. "I was, but Korekishi kind of got worried about leaving you alone with her. Tamon got the cake all covered, so I offered to check on you two, but then I got distracted. Sorry."
"That didn't sound sorry at all!" Mogari leaped at the other, shaking his shoulders with a wide-eyed look. "How could you leave me to pursue your own pleasures?!”
"Hah?"
Ichimiya huffed, catching the attention of the three first years. "We need to return to school. Students like you aren't supposed to stay out of school grounds for this long, unless you'd like to be the test subject for the school's newest punishment method?”
"Eek!! Yes, sir!"
In the end, Ichimiya was saved by the presence of the exorcist, even when he was also part of the problem he was facing. A leaden breath left Ichimiya, his chest considerably lighter as it fills with an overwhelming excitement. All's well that ends well. His steps slowed to trail behind the three, watching the animated conversation, or maybe bickering would suit it better, in mild attentiveness. It was a plus that his identity wasn't revealed too... What a relief.
+1. Let’s Investigate The Yokai!
Ichimiya Sorato had long been a believer of anything supernatural. However much some children would scorn him for his stupid, terrifying, unrealistic beliefs, he had always been enthralled by the concept that there was another unseen world living alongside mere humans such as him.
A single game that Ichimiya's mom had bought for his seventh birthday opened the gates to another world, one that was kept alive through endless stacks of books, movies, blogs— of people who are truly passionate, just as he was. A sense of thrill would creep up his skin as Ichimiya binged them all til the early signs of dawn, his heart full whenever he flops back down out of exhaustion.
" But ghosts aren't real, Sorato. You're getting older now, so you might have to tone it down. Though, that doesn't mean that I'm stopping you from your hobbies! Do what you love, Sorato. Your dad and I will always love you either way ."
Regardless , Ichimiya pressed himself against the wall, peeking from the corner to see four familiar first year students huddled with one another, their faces strangely grave. I don't think I'm supposed to be here, whether for the things I love or not!
It had started off innocently enough. On an occasional morning run, where the sun only began to rise and swallow the sky in an orange hue, a voice by the pavement caught Ichimiya's attention. It wasn't the voice in itself that struck him as peculiar— it was none other than the fact that the person, freakishly tall and donning a baseball cap, was talking with air. Could it be?! Ichimiya froze, puzzles instantly clicking in place. Tamon! Once recognition set in, he made a sharp gasp, hiding behind a bus stop as he shook in delight. Which means that right now, he's talking to a ghost!
Other than that one nightly encounter with the Phantom Busters, Ichimiya hadn't gotten much of a chance to witness an exorcism before his eyes— sue him for being greedy, but Ichimiya couldn't help the urge to be involved! To understand every detail of it! He wants to see once again how cool the Phantom Busters are!
Tamon pushed himself off the railings separating asphalt and the sea, deep in thought as he stared into the distance. He hummed, lifting fingers onto his chin. "I think I can give you a hand, but I'll need some help from a few friends of mine. Don't worry, we're the Phantom Busters, and we'll definitely be able to find your things!"
"Just count on us!" Tamon said as his gaze moved to the screen, quickly typing before flashing a smile towards the empty space. "I'll have to get some things done first, so let's meet up here in a few hours.“
Both of his eyebrows shot up at that. I wanna see—! But how? Lips thinned into a line, blue eyes followed the figure leaving with a bike, only the chill remains of something in the air. Well, there was one thing he could do. But wouldn't that count as stalking? Especially as this was outside of Ichimiya's jurisdiction.
Ichimiya had attempted it once before immediately being caught red handed by none other than Korekishi. Despite that, this was an opportunity he couldn't possibly miss out on! Ichimiya grumbled, mind made up as he dashed back home. He'll just have to be smarter, invisible to even those who see beyond the barrier of the living.
Sitting alone in a cubicle of a family restaurant, a cup of tea in front of him left to stew in the silence that hung upon the mostly vacant establishment, Ichimiya briefly questioned every decision that led him to this moment. Specifically the disguise he had hastily donned. This hoodie, black and oversized with silver holographic details trailing down its sleeves, dated all the way back to his middle school years. A piece of fashion that was unlike Ichimiya's mature image. I didn't think that this hoodie would ever see the light again. Alas. At least it was one of the more... tame designs. Ichimiya would even say that it looked cool with its sharp, ghost-like images that glimmer against light.
He blinked back into focus when the server returned to his table with an oyakodon in hand, nodding in thanks before he pulled down his black mask.
"Welcome! Table for four?" Ichimiya promptly spat out grains of rice, mask back in place when he turned to spot the Phantom Busters casually strolling in.
The restaurant was right across where Tamon had met the ghost, leading Ichimiya to conclude that this was one of the best locations to keep watch— but he hadn't expected for them to come this close! Right on cue, the sound of a stomach grumbling reverberated as though it was announcing its hunger to the whole room. The three sighed while Mogari, the culprit, chuckled without shame. Ichimiya shook his head. Haha, nevermind. Maybe he had expected it.
Back now firmly pressed against the seat, he took intermittent bites while listening in, which wasn't that difficult of a task, if Ichimiya were to be honest. The four (and an invisible plus one?) weren't being subtle at all when it came to discussing their plan.
"Okay!" Korekishi clapped in the midst of them stuffing their faces with food. "In short, we have to search for 3 lost items: an action figure, a detective manga, and a locket. Is that right?" At the affirmative sounds, he continued, placing his phone down for everyone to see. "Right. And according to Kaito-kun here, he lost them when he was in these areas." Korekishi zoomed in and tapped on the map with each statement. "Kamakura Elementary School and Genjiyama Park. They're a bit far from each other, but I think we can make it work. We have plenty of time, after all.”
"Yea. We'll definitely help you find your 20XX exclusive Detective Conan volume." Kanzaki nodded, eyes shining in approval before it turned into a glower, fist tightly clenched. "I can't believe they'd purposely taint an old classic— a rare volume too! Going all the way to hide it from you for all these years... I'd never forgive them if I were you!"
As soon as everything and everyone was settled, the group, followed by a few extra members— whether unnoticed or not, set off with determination in their strides.
If Ichimiya had to sum up their entire adventure in Kamakura Elementary School, the right word would come in a range of varieties: arduous, exciting, confusing, a concealed disaster waiting to explode. There was a lingering tension that was almost tangible in Ichimiya's eyes, present in the way Tamon's figure seemed to fold into itself. The way Korekishi was drowning in his thoughts, more so than usual. The way Kanzaki kept glancing around as though something was about to jump them at any moment. The way Mogari's grin was somewhat strained, a fearful tinge in them.
What is going on???
"What do you mean with that, Kaito?!" Apparently, Mogari had lost all his patience and was now flailing his hands around before it landed on the birdnest that was his hair, tugging them as though the skin below it was about to overheat. "A demon is watching us? Y-yokai?! That's even worse!!”
Ichimiya had to swallow down a gasp with a trembling palm on his mouth. Yokai?! They were real too?! Agh—! Am I allowed to be here?!
The four were huddled together in the playground, a grim silence enveloping the air until Kanzaki broke it with a quiet 'ah'. At the alarmed looks shot at him, Kanzaki shook his head and pointed towards one of the rides. "I might know where those bullies hid Kaito-kun's figure." The boy dragged himself up onto the top of the slide, tinkering with a shut crevice below it before successfully latching it open. Coughing lightly at the dust, Kanzaki raised the toy above his head, "Is this it?"
Everyone's faces fell into relief. The two psychics exchanged a glance and simultaneously gave a thumbs up, "Yep! That's it!"
"How did you even know it was there?" Korekishi questioned once Kanzaki passed the toy to the child, causing all eyes to move from the cheerful Kaito to Kanzaki.
Suddenly bashful, hands shoved into his pockets, Kanzaki mumbled, voice low. "...I used to go here. Used to hide some of my things there until someone saw me do it. Guess it became a generational secret."
The redhead hummed in surprise, falling back in thought before he wondered aloud, "Then do you know of any more hiding spots? Or does Kaito-kun know where they used to hang around?"
"Ah— wait up, kid!" Once the group scurried away, Ichimiya let out the air he was holding, leaning against the gardening shed to take a breather. Oh, how he wishes that he could see the spirit! He wants to converse with them too!!
Nonetheless, since Ichimiya was also here, he might as well give them a hand. Running his fingers through blue strands, Ichimiya stretched his legs as he turned through myriads of halls with one place in mind. Although, he never thought that a member of the Phantom Busters would be a past junior of his! Maybe it was fate that I was able to meet such incredible people , Ichimiya thought, delight strumming his veins, coercing him to walk at a faster pace. Well, they were technically his underclassmen now, but it was still a pleasant surprise!
Heaving out another breath, his gaze was met with wide, towering doors leading to the gymnasium. A squeak by each step was akin to an echoing explosion, following Ichimiya all the way backstage. Wow... It's been a while since I came here. Everything appears the same as I remember, so it should be...
Ichimiya paused at a specific wooden panel, its right side withered with scrapes that were unlike the others worn down by time. Slipping his fingers into the crevices, a slight shake and pull was all Ichimiya needed to force it open, thus revealing the space beneath the stage, littered with countless boxes and scraps of abandoned class projects.
Pulling his hood up, Ichimiya traversed through the maze with only the light peeping from the entrance as his guide. It was like it was just yesterday when he sneaked into the corners to find a stash of treasure in the form of peculiar trinkets and all sorts of old comics. Discovering new and fascinating objects by every passing day became one of the main sources of his childhood adventures, all until a teacher ultimately found out and scolded Ichimiya into the end of the earth. The president huffed at that memory. Ichimiya had once been proud of that, as well as when he managed to reach the ceiling with the tips of his fingers— yet standing here now, Ichimiya was forced to stoop down to the point of a sore neck. Though... had no one come here since he graduated? The mountain of dust was more than enough to send anyone into a sneezing fit, much less a child. I'm so glad I have a mask on— oh, is that it?
Ichimiya squinted when his phone's flashlight was switched on, squatting down as he picked up a couple of comics from the stack. He grimaced slightly at the dust that collected on his palms, flying around with every flip. Fortunately, it didn't take long until Ichimiya hit the jackpot, even when it required him being caked in filth. There it was, the special volume with the well-known child detective on its cover, hidden beneath cobwebs and dust that had made it its home. It's a wonder that it held up so well after all these years. Ichimiya thought absently, carefully inspecting the book as he tiptoed towards the entrance.
Ice crept under Ichimiya's skin when he caught some booming voices from the main gymnasium. Movements lithe and unhesitant as he tossed the comic onto a more visible part of the room, Ichimiya silently shut the makeshift door and wiped the fallen debris away from sight, as swift as the wind as he hid near the exit— right exactly when it clicked open.
I feel like I'm in a spy movie . He huffed silently, moving behind curtains. Nevertheless, they should be able to notice the clues he left. Korekishi, at least, is more than capable of that.
After a brief exchange of words among themselves, the four slipped away to their respective areas— and Ichimiya had to thank every deity out there that none had chosen to search the spot he was residing in.
Neck beginning to turn sore, within the crack between curtains, Ichimiya peeked out to catch the ginger kneeling curiously at the withered wooden panel, a low hum ringing throughout the room as he looked closely at the patterns upon the ground.
"Hm? You found anything, Koreshiki?" Mogari poked his head out of the pile of boxes.
"Down here." Korekishi pointed, head tossed back to meet the eyes of the psychics for a moment. "The dust on this side of the floor seems disturbed, quite recently too." His pointer finger moved along the lines before stopping at the wall panel. "See over here— compared to the wall on the other sides, this specific part has more deteriorated edges. There's a cranny too, and it's possible if I..." Fingers curled in to dig into the space, and with exerting slight pressure, it quickly popped open, causing Korekishi to fall as it swung. "...Voila.”
"Hey, isn't that the manga we're looking for?" Tamon mused aloud. Every person, living or not, immediately huddled around it as he blew the dust away, coughing shortly before holding it up for Kaito to see.
A celebratory cheer later, the evening wind now tustled their hair amongst what seems to be an infinite amount of branches dancing beneath the diminishing warmth of sunlight. Emerald surrounded the group in every direction, yet their focus lay in searching for a needle in a haystack, well, in this case, a locket in the middle of a forest-like park. Pausing every once in a while at the smallest glint of gold and hesitation, Ichimiya made sure to maintain decent distance, lest they notice that he wasn't a mere visitor.
At some point when dusk settled with the sun giving its goodbyes, Ichimiya found that they had deviated from the trails, light turning noticeably scarcer as only a few rays peeked past the gaps between leaves. Gotta stay close to them! Ichimiya sped up with as much care as he could muster, evading even a rustle. It's getting dark, and I can't turn on a flashlight here! Letting an exhale out, Ichimiya leaned against a tree trunk, intending to admire the pink and purple hues of twilight when his mouth fell open.
... You can't be serious.
Somehow, after what Ichimiya presumed had been years since the spirit's death, after all those hours of looking past unending patches of grass and woodland, Ichimiya was the one who just so happened to find said locket hanging from a rather thick branch, swinging lightly as if it was cheekily greeting him.
Had this been simple luck on his side? Coming closer confirmed the fact that the locket had been the victim of years of weathering— bronze giving off a subtle shine as Ichimiya turned it around his palm. Prying it open took more effort than he expected, but once it did, the image stunned Ichimiya with brief familiarity. Even when it was badly browned and deteriorated by age, the face of a smiling child remained visible. This kid... I might've seen him before. What did they say his name was— Kaito? Kaito, Kaito... Hm? Could it be him? His missing classmate from back then?
Fingers closed in around the piece of metal. Although Ichimiya had heard bits and pieces of the story at most, it was only just to return it to its rightful owner.
Slipping back towards the pedestrian area, where overhead lights rippled against the still lake— disturbed only by critters and low chatters from people in the distance, Ichimiya stood motionless with nothing but his thoughts in tow. The Phantom Busters ... Wind chilled the fingers that hung by his side. They're truly amazing.
It didn't take long for a noisier set of voices to make themselves apparent, speaking of promises and dinner plans until Ichimiya felt eyes boring onto his back.
"Hey, look. That guy has horns on his hood." Kanzaki elbowed the taller boy, every pair on eyes now on the hooded figure.
"Eh?" Tamon whipped his head, voice low as he cried, "You're right! Maybe that's the yokai Kaito-kun was talking about. Just a bunch of coincidences. Haha..."
Mogari laughed, exclaiming as he slapped Tamon's shoulders with a scary amount of force. "That's true! There's no way there are any yokais here in Kamakura! It's just like that one time with the ghosts in the cafeteria." He nodded, already convinced with his words. "It'll be kinda funny if someone like President Ichimiya was the 'yokai' like last time, but what are the chances?"
"Pretty high, actually." Korekishi butted in, round glasses glinting at the surprised, slightly horrified, looks that were shot at him. A gentle smile made itself home on his face. "I'm not saying that President Ichimiya himself is the 'yokai' in question, but there's definitely someone, or some thing . Haven't you all noticed the signs of someone following us around?”
The three fell into contemplative silence, and even when Ichimiya had his back facing them, he could hear a collective 'ding!' of a lightbulb switching on in that head of theirs. Guess even Ichimiya can never escape Korekishi's genius.
"I mean, I did feel more eyes on me than usual." Green crawled onto Tamon's skin, a hand coming to cover his mouth to suppress the bile climbing up his throat. "No wonder I've been feeling nauseous... hah..."
"Me too." Kanzaki added, a serious look behind his eyes mirrored by Mogari who was strangely silent during the entire exchange. The gravity of the situation weighed heavy on their shoulders, the same question lingering in the air. That was, until their attention was directed at the ghost running past them, stopping at the hooded figure to tug at his sleeves.
Alarms ringing, Korekishi moved his gaze from one boy to another, trying to figure out the source of surprise on each of their equally stunned faces. Mogari was the one who broke through the stifling air with a shaky finger, a strained smile aimed at Korekishi, "C-can... can you see him too?"
Korekishi blinked. "...Who? The one with the black hoodie on?"
There was a beat of silence between the three before ear splitting screams tore the air, shaking the trees that surrounded them like a 7 Richter earthquake. Before Korekishi could question what in the world was happening, Mogari cried among the simultaneous exclaims, all three of them jumping into the redhead's arms. "Yokai! The kid's calling that guy a yokai! And it can't be a ghost if you can see it, so—!! AGH! We're done for!"
"We're so dead, we're so dead, oh noooo— we're gonna die! Hurk—! "
"If any of us makes it out alive, I'll entrust my entire manga collection to you...! But I can't die before the newest Wind Breaker chapter releases today!"
"You guys..." Korekishi sighed, yet still accepted the weight from all sides. However, in the midst of chaos, green analytical eyes studied the figure that had seemingly noticed the ruckus, head turned just enough to reveal a sharp, dark blue iris capable of piercing through even the toughest of materials. Although the face mask and hood covered most of the person's features, Korekishi could pick up something familiar in the way he carries himself, expectant and bone-chilling— just like... someone they all knew.
"Oh my."
"Huh? What is it, Koreshiki?"
Said ginger shook them off as he approached the guy, ignoring the relentless warnings that he'll be eaten. Even then, the three still stuck close to Korekishi, posture guarded and puffed up like animals ready to strike at any sign of danger.
Wind whistled past the space between them, rustling of trees and labored breaths being the only audible thing. Korekishi was the first to give in, his accusation as pointed as his stare. "Would you mind explaining why you've been following us around, President Ichimiya?"
"Wh— President Ichimiya?!"
"Hmph. So you figured me out." The figure now fully turned, the mask pulled down to reveal a familiar scowl and a beauty mark.
While Ichimiya stared down at them without a change in expression, Tamon was busy vomiting, Kanzaki was stunned into absolute silence, Mogari being Mogari spouted out things like "Don't tell me you're actually a yokai!" which did raise an eyebrow, and finally, Korekishi remained still with that unwavering stare of his.
In response to that, Ichimiya sighed. "I'm not quite sure what alluded you all to suspect me as a stalker, much less a yokai , but I assure you that everything that led up to this point had been a mere coincidence." Well, in technical terms, it kind of counted as stalking at some point— but there's no way he could just say that! The best lies are the ones sprinkled with truth, after all.
"According to our... sources," Korekishi crossed his arms. "You've been following us since we were in Kamakura Elementary School."
"I was an alumni of that school." Ichimiya shot back. "I had some plans to visit when by chance, I saw you lot making a commotion in the playground. It wasn't hard to take notice of the presence of you brats there."
"...Which in turn, made me aware of your plans. I was more than inclined to leave you all to your own business, but the route to my house is the same as this park, and I just happened to stumble into something you're probably looking for." Raising a hand, Ichimiya dropped the locket to allow it to dangle off of his fingers, twisting and turning as the metal caught the streetlights. "Even as his classmate, I wasn't familiar with Kaito-kun during those days, but it was only right to return this to him.”
They let out a synchronised gasp as Ichimiya passed the locket onto Mogari's open palms, who then handed it to the empty space with a grin and— oh my god , is the locket floating?! That's so cool!! Nails dug into his trembling palm at how intensely Ichimiya was clenching his fist. No regrets! I definitely regretted nothing if this is what I was rewarded with!
Ichimiya took a step back when they got immersed in their own conversation with the apparent spirit, as much as he wanted to join them. Mogari knelt down to accept the locket back, smiling at the rest of the Phantom Busters who looked just as relieved. "Great! Another success for the Phantom Busters!"
"But, what should we do with these?" Kanzaki waved the manga around, motioning at the action figure Tamon was holding as well.
"I can give you a hand with that." Ichimiya offered, a hand placed on his chest. "It wouldn't be difficult for me to look for his family's contacts. For now, just hold onto it and I'll get in touch with you soon." And maybe I could even see more exorcisms happen in front of my eyes!
"Woah, for real? You're really a nice guy!"
"Quiet. It's only fair for me to do so."
"I'm so glad that there were no yokais..." Tamon deflated onto whoever was by his side, in this case being Kanzaki who nodded vigorously, years of his life seemingly depleted from his eyes. The shorter of the two then curiously perked up, pointing at Ichimiya's head. "What's up with those horns, though? I didn't think the president would wear something like that."
"Eh?" One hand instantly shot up, only to feel the existence of two plush devilish horns sewed onto the hood— something that was unlike anything the president was supposed to wear!
Ichimiya tore the hood off in a blink of an eye, crossing his arms with a fierce glare that could cause anything to disintegrate from one sight. "This doesn't belong to me.” He quickly added, “Now that everything's settled, I'll be taking my leave."
Without looking back at the waves of goodbyes thrown at him, Ichimiya had to hold himself back from slumping down the ground out of pure exhaustion from keeping up with the Phantom Busters the entire day. Wahhh... I'm so glad that everything turned out fine in the end...
However, did they really think my true identity was a yokai...?