Haru wandered aimlessly down the busy streets, his eyes flicking from one unfamiliar building to another as the chaotic sounds of the city filled the air. Cars honked impatiently, pedestrians bustled past, and the hum of distant conversations washed over him. Despite the vivid energy of the city, he felt a growing frustration gnawing at him. He had no idea where he was going, and the old iPhone 1 in his pocket was practically useless. Its outdated interface was clunky, and finding any reliable navigation app felt impossible. He scrolled through the limited options on the screen, sighing heavily as the realization settled in, he was on his own for now.
"There's got to be like an app or something to tell me where things are on this stupid phone," he muttered under his breath, cursing the device as he continued down the sidewalk. The phone's screen glowed weakly, reflecting his scowl. He flicked it off and shoved it back into his pocket, feeling the weight of his situation press down on him. Just as he rounded a corner, too distracted by his irritation to watch where he was going, he collided shoulder-first into a man who was slightly taller and noticeably broader than him.
"My bad," Haru said casually, making a quick move to step around the man and continue on his way. He barely had time to take a step before a firm grip latched onto his shoulder, halting him in his tracks. Haru frowned, glancing back at the man who now held him in place. The stranger was middle-aged, with a scruffy beard and a smug expression, dressed in a cheap button-up shirt that didn't quite fit right.
"Hey, buddy, this is a brand-new shirt, and you just got it dirty," the man sneered, brushing nonexistent dust from his shoulder. His eyes narrowed, challenging Haru as if expecting an apology or compensation.
Haru's gaze flicked down at the shirt, then back up at the man's face. He could see that the shirt was perfectly clean, there wasn't a single stain or speck of dirt on it. He scoffed, unfazed by the aggressive stance. "Bro, your shirt is perfectly fine," he replied flatly. "Now get your hand off of me." The warning in his tone was clear, and he expected the man to back off.
Instead, the man's lips curled into a wicked smirk. "You know, you're a little feisty for a little man…kekeke," he snickered, eyes glimmering with a nasty intent. Before Haru could react, the man let out a sharp whistle, and the sound echoed off the brick walls of the nearby alleyway. Haru's eyes darted toward the source of movement, and he watched as four more men emerged from the shadows. Each one looked as rough as the first, thugs with crooked grins and eyes that glimmered with bad intentions.
'These guys can't be serious,' Haru thought, a mixture of annoyance and amusement flickering across his face. But then, an idea came to him. This could be a perfect opportunity to test his newfound abilities. He could rough them up a bit, get some information, and maybe even handle them in a more permanent fashion if he felt like it. A devious smile curled on his lips. "How about we take this into the alleyway?" he suggested, his eyes daring them to follow.
The men exchanged glances before breaking into mocking laughter. One of them slapped his thigh, wiping a tear from his eye. "Hahaha… I've never met someone as unique as you," he sneered. The group sauntered toward the alleyway, confidence oozing from every step as they spread out to surround Haru. The middle-aged man, clearly the leader, cracked his knuckles, his grin widening as he sized up what he assumed was easy prey.
As soon as they stepped into the shadowed alley, Haru sprang into action, faster than any of them could react. He lunged forward, his enhanced nails gleaming as they morphed into wickedly sharp claws. Without hesitation, he drove his hand clean through the first thug's stomach, fingers ripping through flesh and muscle with a sickening squelch. Blood splattered onto the dirty brick walls, painting crimson streaks as the man's eyes bulged in horror. He gagged, limbs twitching uncontrollably before collapsing to the ground, clutching the gaping wound as his life seeped away.
The remaining thugs froze in shock, eyes wide as they stared at their fallen companion, who spasmed weakly on the ground. The middle-aged man, his cocky demeanor shattered, stumbled back, a cold sweat breaking out across his forehead. "W-What in the hell is he?" he stammered, his voice trembling as he watched Haru flick the blood from his claws with a lazy, unbothered motion. The scent of blood filled the air, rich and metallic, and a sinister grin stretched across Haru's face.
The rest of the men exchanged panicked glances, their earlier confidence replaced by a creeping fear. Haru's eyes glowed faintly, a hint of the predatory hunger lurking within. The thugs now realized that they were not dealing with some ordinary, overconfident punk, they were trapped with something far more dangerous. The tension in the alleyway was thick, the silence broken only by the ragged, gurgling breaths of the dying man on the ground. Haru flexed his fingers, nails gleaming wickedly, and the men knew, without a doubt, that running was no longer an option.
The three remaining thugs, witnessing the brutal efficiency with which Haru dispatched their comrade, hesitated for only a fraction of a second before springing into action. Fear flickered across their faces, but desperation and bravado drove them forward. They charged all at once, hoping their numbers would be enough to overwhelm him. The first thug swung a wild punch aimed directly at Haru's jaw, his knuckles poised to strike with all the strength he could muster. But Haru's reflexes were sharp, sharper than any human's. He slipped the punch effortlessly, his head tilting to the side as the thug's fist sailed harmlessly past his face. Without a moment's hesitation, Haru's hand shot out, fingers curling into a crushing grip around the man's jaw. A sickening crack echoed through the narrow alleyway as bone shattered beneath his grasp. The thug's eyes widened, a garbled scream escaping his lips before he crumpled to the ground, clutching his broken face.
The second thug, undeterred by his companion's fate, lashed out with a powerful kick aimed at Haru's ribs. The move was fast but sloppy, driven more by panic than precision. Haru's gaze flicked toward the incoming leg, and in one fluid motion, he caught the thug's ankle in a vice-like grip. The man's eyes widened in shock, realizing his mistake too late. With a grunt of exertion, Haru swung the thug around, using his momentum to hurl him directly into the third attacker. The two collided with a heavy thud, bodies tangling together as they were thrown against the alleyway wall. Their heads smacked against the hard surface, and they slumped to the ground, unconscious and crumpled in a heap. The fight had been decided in mere moments.
Satisfied, Haru turned his attention to the middle-aged man who had instigated the confrontation. The man's eyes darted frantically between the fallen bodies of his subordinates and Haru's calm, predatory gaze. Sweat beaded on his forehead, and the confidence that once laced his smirk had been completely wiped away. Haru strode forward, slow and deliberate, savoring the way the man trembled with each step. The eerie glow of Haru's eyes intensified ever so slightly.
"You know," Haru began, his tone casual yet dripping with menace, "before I kill you, I'm going to need you to tell me where the locations I ask for are. Okay?" He stared down the man, eyes cold and unyielding, as if the outcome of this conversation was already set in stone.
The middle-aged man's bravado crumbled completely, and he fell to his knees, hands trembling as he raised them in a desperate plea. Tears welled up in his eyes, and he could barely manage a coherent response. "P-Please don't kill me… I'll do anything," he stammered, words tripping over each other as his mind raced for a way out. Haru's expression remained impassive, utterly unmoved by the pitiful display. The man's pathetic begging grated on his nerves more than it evoked sympathy.
"I'll give you a quick death if you tell me what I need to know," Haru said firmly, his voice hard as stone. It was clear he had no intention of sparing the man's life. The thought of letting a scumbag like this roam free was laughable, and Haru had no doubt the man had taken many lives or ruined others through his actions. A quick death was the best mercy he would offer. The alternative would be far less pleasant.
The man met Haru's gaze, and something in his expression shifted. The pleading desperation faded, replaced by a grim acceptance. He wasn't stupid; he could see the resolve in Haru's eyes the promise of death was absolute. There was no bargaining out of this. The thug swallowed hard, a defeated sigh escaping his lips as he hung his head. He was cornered, and any false hope of escape had been crushed.
"Okay…ask what you want," he said, the resignation heavy in his tone. He knew he would not walk out of this alley alive, but perhaps he could make his end swift. He dared not defy the monster standing before him. The man's shoulders sagged, and his gaze fell to the ground, waiting for Haru's demands.
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Five minutes later, Haru had obtained all the information he needed from the man. He let out a sigh, a frown tugging at his lips as he stared down at his trembling captive. Without hesitation, he extended his sharpened, enhanced nails and sliced the man's head clean off in a single swift motion. Blood splattered across the damp alleyway walls, the lifeless body collapsing to the ground. Haru glanced at his nails, realizing just how deadly the seemingly minor ability could be. He hadn't even needed to use his kagune against these weaklings. The nail enhancement was proving to be a far more valuable gift than he initially thought.
Without wasting any time, Haru proceeded to consume all five corpses down to the bone. The gruesome task was done efficiently, driven more by the necessity to strengthen himself than by any morbid desire. As he devoured the last remnants, a familiar red system screen materialized in front of him.
!You have killed 4 low-level humans, gaining 40 KP!
!You have killed 1 mid-low-level human, gaining 15 KP!
Haru scowled, feeling slightly insulted. "There's no way that dickhead had more strength than the rest," he thought bitterly. It seemed ridiculous, but the system's evaluation was absolute. The mid-low-level human had somehow been deemed more valuable prey.
Now armed with the necessary information, Haru felt confident in his next move. He knew where the important locations were at least the ones that mattered for now. Dusting off his clothes and adjusting his appearance to look as inconspicuous as possible, he began making his way toward the 20th Ward.
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Twenty minutes later, Haru arrived at the entrance of Anteiku, the quaint and humble coffee shop nestled within the heart of the 20th Ward. The establishment's warm, inviting atmosphere contrasted sharply with the harsh reality of the world outside. The gentle chime of the bell above the door announced his arrival as he stepped inside. The soft hum of conversation filled the air, blending with the faint aroma of freshly brewed coffee. Haru scanned the room, taking in the sight of neatly arranged tables and the cozy ambiance that seemed to make the world slow down.
He walked up to the counter, where an older man stood, wiping a glass with a cloth in a slow, methodical manner. The man's silver hair was slicked back neatly, accentuating his calm and composed demeanor. His sharp eyes, though aged, were observant and piercing, a hint of experience and wisdom reflecting in their depths. Haru met the man's gaze as he leaned casually against the counter.
"Hello, what would you like to eat?" Yoshimura asked politely, his tone courteous but measured.
Haru scratched the back of his head before answering, a casual grin crossing his face. "Hey, boss. Umm, let me get a burger with ketchup and mustard, but hold the pickles. And I think that's it," he said confidently, as if it were a completely ordinary order.
Yoshimura's brows furrowed slightly, a flicker of confusion crossing his expression. Though subtle, it was clear he was trying to piece together what he was sensing. Yoshimura was quite certain he could smell the unmistakable scent of a ghoul from this young man. A ghoul ordering human food was not only strange but impractical. Consuming human food would make a ghoul violently ill. So why was this boy ordering a burger of all things?
"Are you sure?" Yoshimura asked, his voice lowering as he leaned in closer. His tone was discreet, a whisper meant only for Haru's ears. "You know ghouls can't eat human food, young man. I'd prefer if there weren't any… accidents in the shop."
Haru let out a light chuckle, undeterred by the warning. "Haha, I can eat it. Don't worry," he assured him, flashing a confident grin.
Yoshimura's eyes narrowed ever so slightly. The confusion on his face deepened, but he decided not to press the matter any further. There was no reason to pry, at least not yet. He was a man who believed in patience, after all. "Okay, your food will be ready in about five minutes," Yoshimura said, the hint of uncertainty still present in his expression.
Haru gave a quick nod and wandered over to the window seat. The sunlight filtered through the glass, illuminating the wooden table as he settled in. He leaned back, resting comfortably as he glanced around, studying the patrons and the cozy interior of the café. It was a peaceful, almost surreal environment compared to what he was used to.
With a casual thought, Haru summoned the system. 'Buy a common 50 KP clothing capsule and open it,' he commanded, watching the familiar red system screen materialize before him.
!Common clothing capsule successfully bought and opened. You have gained: Reinforced Coat (Uncommon)!
!Your coat has been stored in the system warehouse!
Haru's eyebrows shot up. 'System warehouse? Why didn't I know about that?' he thought, irritation creeping into his expression. He expected an answer, but the system remained stubbornly silent. Seconds ticked by without a response, and his annoyance grew. With a click of his tongue, he smacked his lips in frustration. The system had a habit of withholding information until it decided he needed it, which was starting to get on his nerves.
He sighed and glanced out the window, tapping his fingers idly against the tabletop. The mysterious coat was intriguing, but he'd worry about it later. Right now, he was more focused on seeing how this interaction with Yoshimura would play out.
Yoshimura walked up to Haru's table, carrying a plate with a neatly assembled burger. The scent of grilled meat and condiments wafted toward Haru, a tempting aroma that would have enticed any human. With a polite but neutral expression, Yoshimura placed the plate in front of him. "Here's your burger. Enjoy. Is there anything else you need, young man?" he asked, his tone courteous yet observant.
Haru looked up, offering a casual nod. "You can call me Chino," he replied, giving the alias without hesitation. His gaze sharpened as he leaned forward slightly, speaking just low enough to keep the conversation private. "And actually, there is something else. I'd like to ask if you know where any ghouls are specifically, ones you'd like taken care of."
A flicker of surprise crossed Yoshimura's face, the old man's brows knitting together as he processed the request. Haru's words were straightforward, but the implication was clear, he was hunting ghouls. It wasn't often a ghoul openly declared such intentions. Haru's goal was simple: he needed more KP, and the most efficient way to obtain it was by killing ghouls. Humans were easier targets, but the KP they provided was meager in comparison. Eating ghouls would not only grant Haru more RC cells, increasing his strength and kagune potency, but it would also bring him closer to achieving a kakuja, a monstrous form unique to ghouls who cannibalized their own kind.
Yoshimura's expression turned complicated, suspicion and curiosity mingling in his eyes. He studied Haru carefully. "You want to kill ghouls?" he asked, the question laced with caution.
"Yes," Haru replied without hesitation.
"But why?" Yoshimura's confusion was evident. Ghouls didn't typically hunt their own kind unless they were driven by hunger or madness. Even then, it was a taboo practice, and those who indulged in it were often shunned.
Haru's lips curved into a faint smirk. "You could say it's for gaining more experience," he answered cryptically, his eyes glimmering with intent. There was truth to his words each kill would make him stronger, more skilled, and closer to unlocking his full potential. For Haru, survival wasn't enough. He wanted power, and power demanded sacrifice.
Yoshimura's expression shifted to one of contemplation. Silence hung between them as the old man considered Haru's motives. He glanced away thoughtfully, weighing the risks and benefits of sharing information. Eventually, he nodded. "Very well. Eat your food first, and then we can talk in the back. I'll tell you where ghouls tend to gather and where you'd best avoid." Yoshimura's eyes were stern, silently warning Haru of the dangers he might face.
"Ok," Haru agreed simply before picking up his burger and taking a bite. The taste was normal, and he managed to chew and swallow without discomfort. The system's modifications allowed him to bypass a ghoul's natural aversion to human food, making it easier for him to blend in. Yoshimura gave him one last glance before walking away, disappearing into the back room.
Before Haru could finish his meal, a sudden presence approached. A slender girl, around his age, nineteen, if he had to guess, walked over with a curious smile on her lips. Her long, wavy hair was a deep purple, cascading down her back with an effortless elegance. Violet eyes glimmered behind a pair of thin glasses, giving her an air of intelligence and mischief. She carried herself with confidence as she slid into the seat across from him, resting her elbows on the table.
"Hello, Chino. That's your name, right? I heard you say it to the manager," she remarked casually, her eyes scanning him with an unsettling intensity. Her tone was playful, but there was something predatory in her gaze something that made Haru's instincts flare up.
The moment she sat down, Haru felt a surge of recognition. The purple hair, the alluring eyes, the dangerous smile it was her. Rize Kamishiro. The woman whose hunger and recklessness changed Kaneki's life forever. The infamous "Binge Eater," a ghoul known for her insatiable appetite and deadly beauty.
Haru's focus wavered, and for a heartbeat, he nearly forgot himself. This was Rize. He had read about her exploits in the original story. The gluttonous ghoul who lured unsuspecting prey to their doom. She was the catalyst for so much chaos, the very reason Kaneki became what he was. And now, she was here, sitting in front of him, her eyes glimmering with amusement as if she had found something interesting to play with.
Haru took a slow, deliberate bite of his burger, his expression neutral as he chewed. He wasn't sure what Rize wanted, but he had no intention of showing weakness. Whatever her game was, he would play along for now.
Haru leaned back in his seat and met her gaze with a neutral expression. "Yes, that's my name. Yours?" he asked casually, though he kept his tone guarded. He knew who she was, after all.
The woman across from him leaned forward slightly, a coy smile dancing on her lips. "You can call me Rize," she answered smoothly, her violet eyes gleaming with an unsettling mix of amusement and curiosity. She tilted her head, studying him with an intensity that made it clear she wasn't one to be easily fooled. "Is Chino your real name?"
Haru scoffed lightly and bit into his food, savoring the taste more out of habit than enjoyment. The burger was passable, but it lacked the richness he craved. "Of course not," he replied between bites. "It's my ghoul name." The alias was something he had come up with on the spot, simple enough to sound believable, yet vague enough to conceal his true identity.
Rize arched an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "Oh? What's your real name then? I told you mine," she pressed, her tone teasing but curious. It was clear she wasn't going to let the question go unanswered.
Haru paused, chewing thoughtfully as he considered her. He could have lied, but it seemed pointless. Rize was a predator, and predators could always sense deception. He met her eyes, seeing the glint of mischief in her gaze. It reminded him of a cat toying with its prey. 'It's not like I didn't already know,' he thought dryly. He had seen enough of Tokyo Ghoul to know that Rize Kamishiro was cunning, manipulative, and terrifyingly dangerous.
"My name is Haru," he answered finally. "Just call me that." He leaned back in his seat, crossing his arms. "Question: what made you sit next to me?" He genuinely wanted to know. It wasn't as if he'd invited her over, and while his instincts warned him she was trouble, he couldn't deny his curiosity.
Rize's smile widened, and she leaned closer, her elbows resting on the table as she eyed him with a playful glimmer. "Well, first off, I've never seen or heard of you before," she said smoothly. "And second" her eyes slowly roamed over his face, and the smirk returned "you're really handsome."
Haru felt a smile tug at his lips, an involuntary reaction to the compliment. There was something oddly flattering about being called handsome by someone like Rize, even if he knew it was likely part of a game. Still, the smile faded just as quickly as it had appeared. His thoughts drifted back to the anime, the vivid memory of Rize luring Kaneki to his near-death under the guise of a date. The way she had played with her prey before revealing her true nature. A sudden sense of wariness settled over him. He couldn't afford to underestimate her.
"Thanks…you're kinda cute too," he replied, masking his caution with a casual grin. He finished the last bite of his burger and stood up, grabbing his empty plate. Rize watched him with an amused expression as he carried it to the counter. She rose to follow, her presence lingering close behind him like a shadow.
Yoshimura stood behind the counter, his observant eyes flicking between Haru and Rize. He didn't say anything at first, but the curiosity was plain in his gaze. "You done?" he asked, his question directed more toward Haru but glancing briefly at Rize as well.
"Yeah, here." Haru handed over the plate, and Yoshimura accepted it with a nod. The old man's expression was thoughtful, as if piecing together an unspoken puzzle.
With a subtle gesture, Yoshimura beckoned Haru to follow, leading him toward the back of the café. Haru trailed behind, and he could hear the soft click of Rize's heels as she walked after them. A strange sensation washed over him a mix of anticipation and caution. He could feel her eyes on his back, appraising and curious. She was a predator, and he was aware that any slip-up could be fatal.
Yoshimura guided them up a narrow staircase that creaked beneath their steps. The air grew quieter as they ascended, the café's hum of conversation fading away. At the top of the stairs, the hall opened into a cozy lounge area. The room was dimly lit, decorated with simple furniture and a few shelves lined with books. The ambiance was relaxed, a stark contrast to the tension hanging in the air. Haru glanced around, noting the worn but comfortable couches and the faint scent of old paper and coffee.
He found a spot to lean against a wall, arms crossed as he observed Yoshimura. Rize sauntered over to a nearby chair, settling herself gracefully as if she owned the place. Her violet eyes never left Haru, a smirk tugging at the corners of her lips. She seemed more intrigued than ever, and Haru couldn't help but wonder what kind of thoughts were swirling in her mind.
Yoshimura took a seat across from Haru, fingers steepled as he fixed the young man with a curious but wary gaze. "So, Chino," he began slowly, "you said you wanted information on ghouls?"
Haru nodded, meeting the old man's eyes.
Yoshimura sat up straighter in his seat, folding his hands together as he looked at Haru with a thoughtful expression. After a moment of consideration, he began to speak, his tone even and informative. "Well, for starters, the places you shouldn't go for now are Wards 1 through 5. They are all heavily occupied by the CCG, and Ward 5, in particular, is where they train their new recruits. It's practically a death sentence for any ghoul foolish enough to wander in without a plan."
He paused briefly before continuing, his gaze flickering as he organized his thoughts. "Ward 6 is controlled by Orca's territory a dangerous place even for other ghouls. In Ward 7, there's a ghoul restaurant catering specifically to ghouls who prefer refined meals rather than hunting for their own food. As for Ward 8, it's home to a secret ghoul business called the Luna Eclipse. There's also a CCG branch there, but they aren't particularly active compared to the other wards."
Haru's eyes narrowed as he absorbed the information. Something about the Luna Eclipse piqued his curiosity. "Are the Luna Eclipse a threat?" he asked, his tone cautious as he sought to understand the significance of this secretive organization.
Yoshimura leaned back in his chair, a contemplative frown creasing his brow. "Well, I can't say for sure," he admitted, his expression betraying his uncertainty. "I've never had the time or the resources to go and investigate them personally, but I'm fairly certain they are. Any ghoul organization that manages to stay hidden for so long usually has something dangerous up its sleeve."
The old man let out a weary sigh before continuing, "Wards 9 through 11 are run by the Aogiri Tree. They're a powerful and ruthless group, and Ward 11 is easily the most dangerous ward in all of Tokyo, more so than any other ward by far. Avoid it if you can." He met Haru's gaze seriously, ensuring the warning was received. "Ward 12 is home to the ghoul detention center, and Ward 13 is particularly hostile toward ghouls because the CCG there is incredibly aggressive. They don't hesitate to use extreme measures."
Yoshimura shifted slightly in his seat, the light catching on his glasses. "Ward 14 is where the Helter Skelter Bar is located. It's a place where ghouls can socialize, though it has a bit of a seedy reputation. I'm not entirely sure what's going on in Wards 15 through 17, but I suspect there might be an Aogiri branch in Ward 18. It's just a guess, though, I can't confirm it." He scratched his chin, clearly uneasy about the uncertainty.
"The 19th Ward is relatively safe for ghouls," Yoshimura continued, his tone shifting to one of slight reassurance. "The CCG stationed there are notoriously lazy and complacent, so ghouls who lay low can survive easily enough. As for the 20th Ward, that's where my café is located. We prefer peace over violence, and I try to help ghouls who seek refuge. There are two other prominent groups in this ward the Black Dobers and the Apes. They're strong, but we've come to a mutual understanding, and they're more or less going to join us soon, so you shouldn't have any issues with them."
Haru nodded, taking in the details. It was useful information, but it didn't seem like anything he couldn't handle. The challenge was enticing if he managed to hunt dangerous ghouls, his power would grow rapidly.
"In the 21st Ward," Yoshimura continued, "ghouls are constantly fighting. It's a chaotic and violent place. The Tsukiyama family estate controls that ward they're notorious cannibals, known for their extravagant tastes and indulgence in eating fellow ghouls. The 22nd Ward is similar ghouls are always fighting for power, and it's a dangerous place for anyone who isn't strong enough to survive."
Yoshimura's expression hardened as he mentioned the final wards. "No ghoul can enter the 23rd Ward because it holds another ghoul detention center. The CCG there is vigilant and unrelenting. As for the 24th Ward, I'm fairly certain the Aogiri Tree has another base there, but I've never been able to confirm it. Every time I manage to capture a ghoul from there and attempt to interrogate them, they always kill themselves before I can get any useful information." He sighed, a hint of frustration slipping into his voice.
Haru's eyes gleamed with interest. The amount of information Yoshimura had just provided was invaluable knowledge of territories, threats, and power players within Tokyo. It would make navigating the wards much easier and allow him to focus on his goals.
"Thank you, Mr. Yoshimura," Haru said, bowing his head respectfully. "I'll make sure to repay you for your kindness one day."
Yoshimura waved a hand dismissively, though a faint smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. "No problem, Chino," he replied, using the alias Haru had given. The old man's eyes lingered on him, a knowing look in their depths, as if he could see the ambition burning in Haru's gaze. The café owner seemed to understand more than he let on.
He glanced back at Yoshimura, nodding respectfully. "You have a great evening," he said, his tone polite but firm. Without waiting for a response, he turned and made his way toward the door, slipping out of the café with a sense of determination. The cool night air greeted him as he stepped outside, the faint hum of distant traffic filling the silence.
To his mild surprise, Rize followed closely behind him, the soft click of her heels echoing against the pavement. Haru cast a sidelong glance at her, an eyebrow arching slightly as he wondered why she was so intent on tagging along. It seemed odd that someone who had just met him would be so interested, but he chose not to press the issue. She had her reasons, whatever they were.
"So, do you know which ward you're going to visit first?" Rize asked, her tone dripping with curiosity. She walked with an easy confidence, hands casually clasped behind her back as she watched him with a smile that was just a bit too interested. Her eyes glimmered with something he couldn't quite place a mixture of amusement and hunger.
Haru sighed, the sound heavy and resigned. He had half a mind to tell her off for following him, but she was persistent, and he doubted she'd simply walk away if asked. Deciding it wasn't worth the effort, he shoved his hands into his pockets and answered, "I'm going to start with the 15th Ward first. That's where I live, so it makes sense to get a feel for the area before moving on to more dangerous territories." He glanced at her, wondering if that would be enough to satisfy her curiosity.
Rize's eyes narrowed thoughtfully as she hummed in response. "The 15th Ward, huh? That's a pretty quiet place, but I suppose it's a good starting point. You might run into a few ghouls lurking around, but nothing too dangerous, at least, not compared to the other wards." She flashed a sly smile, leaning slightly closer. "You're an interesting one, Chino. I'm curious to see how you handle yourself."
Haru's expression remained neutral as he turned to walk away. He had no intention of sticking around and chatting with her all night. He raised a hand in a casual wave, a small, polite smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "You have a nice day," he called over his shoulder as he strode away, the distance between them growing with each step. He didn't bother looking back he had more important things to focus on.
Rize watched him walk off, her eyes glimmering with a predatory intensity as her lips curled into a wicked grin. She brought a delicate hand to her mouth, trailing her tongue along her lips as if savoring a delectable thought. "A new interesting guy…" she murmured, her voice dripping with amusement and anticipation. The hunger in her eyes was unmistakable, and it was clear she had plans of her own.
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Twenty minutes later, Haru finally arrived at the alleyway that led to his apartments. As he walked through the familiar path, the sound of faint, muffled crying reached his ears. The noise was soft, almost too quiet to be noticed, but it was there, tugging at his attention. Curiosity piqued, Haru instinctively followed the sound, his steps becoming slower and more cautious as he neared the source. It wasn't the typical noise that one would expect to hear in this quiet, isolated part of the city, and the idea of someone in distress made him stop to assess the situation.
After turning a corner, he saw a girl standing alone in the dimly lit alley. She looked to be slightly older than him, but her appearance was rough, her clothes tattered and dirty, as if she had been through some kind of ordeal. Her hair, a bright orange, was disheveled, and her green eyes normally vibrant and clear seemed dull and clouded with tears. Haru couldn't quite make out all of her features, given the state she was in, but it was clear she was in trouble. The girl's eyes locked with his, and she froze, her gaze filled with a mix of fear and confusion.
Haru stepped forward cautiously, taking in the girl's distressed state. As he approached, she instinctively backed up against the nearby wall, trying to make herself smaller. He could sense her hesitation, the fear radiating off her, and it reminded him of his own experiences, how he used to react when people were frightened of him. But Haru wasn't one to turn his back on someone in need, especially not after seeing the vulnerable look in her eyes.
"Are you okay? What happened to you?" Haru asked gently, his voice calm and steady. He extended a hand toward her, an unspoken offer of help, hoping she would trust him enough to take it.
The girl sniffled, wiping her nose with the back of her arm in a crude attempt to clear the snot that had accumulated. Her face contorted with the effort, but she managed to speak through the sobs, her voice shaky and full of sorrow. "M-my family kicked me out…
b-because they think I'm a ghoul," she stammered, each word dripping with pain and humiliation.
Haru raised an eyebrow, surprised by her words. He had met many ghouls in his time, and he knew how easily they could be misunderstood, but to be rejected by one's own family he could feel the weight of that. He took a step closer to her, his voice softer now, as he tried to piece together what had happened. "Why do they think that? What exactly happened? Tell me the full story while we're walking. You can stay with me," he offered, his tone both reassuring and genuine, as he wanted to help her.
The girl hesitated for a moment, seemingly unsure whether to trust him. Her eyes darted nervously, scanning the alley as if afraid someone might jump out at her. After a long moment of silence, she seemed to gather herself, slowly taking his hand in hers. "Are you sure? You're not scared?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly as she looked up at him with doubt in her eyes.
Haru gave her a reassuring smile, though it was tinged with a hint of weariness. "You'd be surprised…" he said cryptically, his words laced with a quiet confidence. He could sense her anxiety, but he wasn't one to judge someone based on appearances. She seemed to need a helping hand, and he would provide it.
With a reluctant but visible sigh, the girl nodded and allowed him to guide her. Together, they started walking toward his apartment, her steps slow at first, but gradually picking up as the weight of the situation seemed to settle. She glanced at him as they walked, her lips parting to speak, and Haru patiently waited for her to continue.
"So, uhm, it all started this morning," the girl began, her voice shaky but growing steadier as she continued. "When I got home from work, I laid down on my bed and tried to rest. But then I felt this burning sensation in my eyes. I kept rubbing them, trying to get rid of it, but nothing worked. So, I asked my mom to blow in them, you know, to help relieve the irritation. But when I opened my eyes… she shrieked. She backed away from me, pointing at my face like she saw something horrible."
Haru listened intently as she spoke, his expression softening with empathy. He had a feeling that this wasn't just some ordinary story. He didn't interrupt her, allowing her the space to get it all out.
"She was scared, and then my dad and two of my brothers came in to see what was going on," she continued, her voice growing strained as she recounted the events. "They were all terrified when they saw me. I didn't understand. So I went to look in the mirror, and when I saw my reflection… I realized what they saw. My eyes, the white part… it was all black, covered with these dark green blood vessels. But my irises were still the same green, like always."
Haru's eyes narrowed slightly, processing her words carefully. It was clear now that whatever was happening to her wasn't ordinary, and it seemed like something beyond her control. But it didn't make sense for her family to abandon her over something like this.
The girl paused, her lips trembling as she wiped away another tear. "After that, I got into an argument with my mom. She and my dad… they kicked me out. But my brothers, they didn't want me to go. They didn't understand what was happening, but they couldn't stop my parents."
By the time she finished telling her story, they had reached Haru's apartment building. He unlocked the door and pushed it open, holding it for her to enter first. The weight of her story seemed to hang in the air between them, but Haru didn't let it stop him from taking the next step. He was determined to make sure she was safe, at least for tonight.
"Come on in," he said, motioning for her to enter. The girl hesitated for a moment, looking around as if unsure about what she was walking into. But with a nod, she stepped inside, and Haru followed, locking the door behind them.
Haru looked at her carefully, his mind racing with questions. After listening to her story, he couldn't help but wonder about the peculiar changes she had described. He leaned in slightly, his expression curious, trying to make sense of it all. "So, nothing came out of your back?" he asked, a subtle trace of concern in his voice as he waited for her to answer.
The girl, still appearing shaken from the entire ordeal, shook her head in response. Her eyes seemed distant as she recalled the events, and she spoke quietly, as if unsure of her own thoughts. "No, it was only my eyes," she said, her voice shaky. "But I felt stronger when they were like that. Like something inside of me changed." She paused for a moment, as if processing the feeling herself. "It was strange… and frightening. I don't really know how to explain it."
Haru nodded thoughtfully, absorbing her words. There was something off about the whole situation, something he couldn't quite put his finger on. But it was clear that whatever was happening to her was something he hadn't encountered before. He scratched his chin and sighed, rubbing his temples slightly as he considered what to do next. "Hmm, interesting…" he muttered to himself. His voice shifted back to her, more direct now. "Here, go take a shower and use these clothes for now. I'll take the couch, you can take the bed," he offered, moving to his closet and pulling out a set of simple, comfortable clothes that would fit her. He handed them to her gently, his expression warm but pragmatic.
She nodded, her voice still soft but carrying a hint of relief. "Okay," she replied, taking the clothes from him with a slight glance toward the bed. She wasn't sure what to think of the situation being in a stranger's apartment, with no place else to go but the offer of a shower and a place to sleep seemed like the only option left for her. She headed toward the bathroom, her footsteps slow as she carried the weight of the events from earlier that day.
Once she was out of sight, Haru went to the couch and sat down, feeling the cool air of the room. He grabbed the remote control and turned on the television, allowing the familiar news broadcasts to fill the silence. He half listened to the stories about rising crime rates and political scandals, but his mind kept drifting back to the girl, no, the woman who had just walked into his life.
Haru's hand reached out automatically to tap the air, activating the system's interface. His thoughts were still consumed with the girl, and he needed to know more about what was happening to her.
'System, do you know what she is?' he asked mentally, the words slipping out without hesitation. The system had never failed to provide him with answers before, so he hoped for a quick response.
There was a brief pause before the system replied, its voice as monotone and informative as usual.
!Host, it seems that the girl is a variant ghoul, one whose strength and speed are enhanced beyond what is normal for most ghouls. However, she loses the ability to manifest a kagune, making her a different kind of ghoul altogether. She is likely what is known as a Valkyris Ghoul.!
Haru's eyes widened slightly, taken aback by the response. He furrowed his brow, the name "Valkyris Ghoul" ringing a bell, but he couldn't recall it from anywhere in his past encounters or knowledge. That was never in the show, though? he thought with a sigh, a mix of frustration and confusion settling in. There was always something new to learn, something unexpected about this world. Sigh… Haru sighed internally, the weight of the unknown pressing on him. He sat back on the couch, turning his attention back to the television, but his mind couldn't quite let go of the strange feeling the girl had left him with.
He shifted in his seat, attempting to refocus on the world around him. The girl, whatever she was wasn't just a victim in this strange and twisted world; there was something more to her, and he couldn't shake the feeling that this wasn't just a random encounter. There were too many questions, and too few answers.
.
.
.
After Rina came out of the shower, Haru's attention was immediately drawn to her. As she stepped into the living room, his eyes widened in surprise, so much so that it almost felt as if his eyes would fly out of his head. It wasn't just that she was extraordinarily beautiful, although that certainly was part of it; it was more that he hadn't expected her to look the way she did now. When he first saw her, she had been covered in dirt, her clothes disheveled and her appearance far from polished. But now, as she stood before him, clean and refreshed, she looked like a completely different person an elegant, beautiful woman, almost radiating a quiet, ethereal charm.
Her hair, which had once been matted with grime, now shimmered under the soft light of the room. Her skin, previously dull and smudged with dirt, now looked smooth and glowing. Haru couldn't help but find himself momentarily speechless, taken aback by how strikingly different she appeared. The transformation was so stark that it almost felt surreal. What had once been an unfamiliar and frightened girl now stood before him, exuding an aura of natural beauty that left him momentarily stunned.
After a brief pause, Haru cleared his throat, trying to regain his composure. "Well, now that we're settled down, my name is Haru Hoshizora," he said, trying to keep his tone even and casual. "What's your name?" He spoke as if this was a simple introduction, but in truth, his mind was still reeling from the transformation he had just witnessed.
Rina, appearing slightly less nervous now, smiled softly at him. "My name is Rina Ogura. Nice to meet you, Haru," she responded, her voice calm and polite.
(Picture Here)
The awkwardness from earlier seemed to have faded, and there was an air of tentative comfort between them now. Despite the strange circumstances that had brought them together, there was an undeniable sense of mutual respect.
"Nice to meet you too," Haru replied with a nod, feeling more at ease now. He paused for a moment, then decided to ask the question that had been nagging at him ever since she explained what had happened to her. "So, do you know how to control it yet?" he asked, his curiosity clear in his voice. He had to know what she had experienced since the transformation, especially since her eyes were still a mystery to him. He couldn't help but glance toward them, still unsure of what to expect.
Rina hesitated for a moment, her fingers nervously fidgeting with the hem of her sleeves. "Uhm, not really," she admitted, her voice tinged with frustration. "I just feel a click in my eye, and then it starts burning, but that's it. I don't really know what's happening." Her words were filled with uncertainty, and Haru could tell that she wasn't entirely comfortable with the situation. She was clearly still trying to make sense of everything herself. Her eyes shifted downward, as if ashamed that she couldn't provide a better answer.
Haru considered this for a moment, his mind racing through the possible explanations. Hmm… it might have something to do with her RC. He thought to himself, tapping his chin thoughtfully. She was just a normal human yesterday after all. He had a feeling that whatever was going on with Rina was directly tied to her RC cells, something that could explain her sudden increase in strength and the abnormal change to her eyes. But it was clear to him that she had only just begun to understand the full extent of what was happening to her.
"Alright, go get some sleep," Haru said, his voice taking on a more relaxed tone as he stood up from the couch. "We'll figure out what to do with our lives tomorrow." He walked over to the arm of the couch and grabbed a blanket, tossing it over to her. "It's been a long day, and I think we both need some rest." He smiled at her reassuringly, trying to ease some of the tension in the air.
Rina nodded, her expression softening. "Okay, goodnight," she said, her voice quieter now as she turned around. With a gentle, almost hesitant step, she walked toward the bedroom, disappearing into the darkness of the hallway. Haru watched her for a moment before turning off the TV and settling back into the couch, and going to sleep.