Gabyo Hakato

The winter had officially begun eighteen hours ago, and the snow was still relentlessly pouring down. The city was a sight to behold as people were seen bundled up in their warmest and most layered outfits to brave the freezing temperatures. Some wore cozy bonnets to cover their heads, while others opted for warm hoodies to keep their necks and heads warm. Despite the harsh weather, dedicated adults continued to work weekend shifts, while children joyfully played in the snow. However, for some unfortunate people without homes, the frigid temperatures were unbearable, and they were seen huddled around street corners, desperately begging for food to survive the brutal winter. For most people, it was just another typical winter day, but for Shizuka, it was anything but ordinary.

She just witnessed a talking dog.

Under the frayed edges of her faded green bonnet, she stood there nervously, her heart pounding in her chest. The talking Doberman, with its keen sense of smell, approached her and sniffed her intently, causing her to take a deep, shaky breath.

"They gotta be kidding. I can't smell any ki at all. Are you sure that she's the rumored Princess?"

"She is. However, I can't verify that she's the reincarnation either."

Upon receiving confirmation from Hakken, Lucky fixed a suspicious gaze upon Shizuka. He noticed that she was avoiding eye contact, her emerald-green eyes darting around nervously, which only served to heighten his suspicion.

"Well, She doesn't have the crimson eyes either. Rumors are rumors after all."

Hakken's face was beaming with a bright and radiant expression, but despite this, he remained silent and did not give any confirmation or denial. As he brushed off the small wound he had received from the dog's bite, he still managed to maintain his composure.

What is this Dog's Problem?

"You must be exhausted from your journey, Hakken." Gabyo Hakato emerged from his cabin to greet the students with his calm and collective voice.

"It's been a while, father," Hakken replied.

Hakato acknowledged the students with a slight nod of his head, his demeanor calm and collected. He responded to their words with a simple but affirmative "yeah," his voice carrying a hint of warmth and friendliness.

"Pri. . . Mr. Principal!"

The man had an impressive and sophisticated hairstyle, meticulously groomed to perfection. The luscious Chocolate brown shade was expertly slicked back, complemented by strands of pristine white hair peering out from beneath his black western hat. His facial hair was sparse, but it still managed to conceal most of his face. Despite his remarkable physical appearance, Hakato's age was now in his fifties.

Without uttering a word, Hakato made a subtle gesture with his hand, inviting the three teenagers to enter the cabin.

As Shizuka approached the camp cabin, she was taken aback by what she saw. The chopped firewood was neatly stacked and arranged around the cabin, exuding warmth and comfort. A fishing rod was placed beside the entrance door, indicating that the owner takes pleasure in outdoor activities such as fishing. A simple bike was parked beside the front door steps, indicating a preference for a humble and eco-friendly mode of transportation.

The cabin was located in a serene environment, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. As they drew closer, Shizuka noticed a small frozen river behind the leafless trees, just a few meters away from Hakato's humble abode. It was clear why the owner had a fishing rod with him. The frozen river was the perfect spot for fishing, if not for the harsh winter weather. The peacefulness of the surroundings was almost palpable, and it was easy to see why the owner preferred this simple and serene lifestyle over the luxuries that wealth can buy.

Upon entering the cozy wooden cabin, a feeling of admiration and excitement swept over them. The cleverly designed space boasted an open-plan layout, with a harmonious combination of a modern kitchen, a welcoming dining area and a comfortable living room all within one box. The bathroom and bedroom were thoughtfully separated for added privacy. The centerpiece of the cabin was a medium-sized chimney, surrounded by a comfortable sala set which provided warmth and a cozy ambiance. The carefully crafted details and the use of natural materials made the cabin feel like a haven of peace and tranquility. It was clear that Hakato, who lived there, had put a lot of thought and care into creating a space that was both practical and inviting.

The living room was filled with warmth emanating from the blazing chimney, as Lucky, the Doberman, claimed his spot in the corner of the room. With one leg raised, he relieved himself while wagging his tail in contentment, as if declaring ownership of the space. Shizuka, who was nearby, cringed in disgust at the sight and smell. However, Ayashiro, who sat beside Lucky, was thrilled and gave him a thumbs up, appreciating the dog's loyalty. Amidst the easing sound of their laughter and the pleasant aroma of tea, the room felt like the perfect haven to fight off the bitter cold of winter.

"So, I heard you settled things with Sakaki Kyoshiro." After removing his western hat, Hakato's demeanor changed completely. His expression turned stern and serious. He carefully placed the hat above the chimney, as if it held some significant meaning or importance to him.

The group of three teenagers sat motionless on the couch, their faces devoid of any expression.

Hakken spoke with a firm tone, determined to steer the conversation away from the S-ranked criminal. "Our purpose here is not to discuss Kyoshiro's criminal activities. Rather, we are here to address the matter of Shizuka's status as your student."

"Status huh . . ." Hakato delicately raised his teacup to his lips and took a slow, deliberate sip. As he savored the taste of the tea, his eyes closed in appreciation and he fell silent for a few moments.

Shizuka's voice was filled with disbelief as she spoke, "I can hardly believe it after all these years, Mr. Principal, that you knew something about me."

"You're right Ms. Fujino. I promised to watch over you and ensure a good school experience and a bright future, as Takiko and Asuka wished."

"You made a promise?"

"Yes." Hakato reached into his chest pocket, pulled out a cigarette stick, and placed it in his mouth. Afterward, he lit it and took a puff, all the while his expression remaining neutral and composed.

"Your mother died a tragic death, and your grandma has duties as the Principal of Divine Knights Academy. So basically, no one is there for you. So I made a promise to look after you while Takiko was gone." Hakato added after exhaling puffs of smoke from his mouth.

Shizuka mumbled sheepishly, "Now I know why you're not expelling me after the trouble I caused."

Hakato sneered in contempt as he forcefully stubbed out the cigarette, the sound of the embers being extinguished echoed in the room after just a few puffs.

As he gazed at her intently, his eyes seemed to pierce through her very soul. His question was sharp and direct, leaving no room for ambiguity. "Are you really sure about this, Ms. Fujino?" Shizuka felt a lump form in her throat as she lowered her head, unable to muster the courage to meet his gaze. Her eyes drifted downwards, fixating on the floor as if searching for an answer that lay hidden within the tiles. The silence between them was palpable, each second stretching out like an eternity.

Hakato took a deep breath and understood the gravity of Shizuka's situation.

As the seconds ticked by in the otherwise quiet room, Shizuka broke the silence. Her voice was calm and steady as she addressed the three individuals who had been watching her with curiosity. "Do you remember our last conversation, Mr. Principal?" she asked. She waited a beat before continuing, "You asked me what path I would choose after graduating, right?"

Shizuka's head was held high, and she exuded a quiet confidence that demanded attention. "I'm sorry to say that I haven't decided yet," she went on. "But I want to explore the other world before making any decisions, Mr. Principal." Her gaze was unflinching as she locked eyes with Gabyo Hakato, the principal of the school.

"So, you are planning to drop out of school before making your decision. . ." Hakato uttered, closing his eyes and leaning back in his seat.

Shizuka appeared to exude confidence, yet her anxiety was palpable as she repeatedly swallowed hard in response to the words of her Principal.

"What happens if you leave that world and return here with nothing? Will this world welcome you back?"

Hakken tried to stop his father, but failed, as he wanted to express his thoughts on what had just happened.

Hakato, with an unflinching demeanor, spoke to his student, Shizuka, in a frank but caring tone. "Ms. Fujino, the harshness of this world is not an indication that the other world will treat you any better. You must understand that none of us truly belong to either of these worlds." Despite the gravity of his words, Hakato remained composed and unshaken.

He continued, "The world beyond is full of violence, bloodshed, and unbearable grief. Can you handle that? If you cannot even bear to live in this world, how can you expect to survive in a world far more cruel? Think about it, Shizuka." His words hit Shizuka hard, causing her to feel even more guilty and lowering her head in shame.

Hakato had always been Shizuka's silent protector, aware of her weaknesses and pains. He had always been sympathetic towards her, knowing that she had grown up without proper care and had barely known the love of a family. For Hakato, such struggles were the reality of life. He wanted Shizuka to be strong if she ever decided to live in Eden Land, a place even more merciless than their world.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Ayashiro muttered, his voice laced with annoyance. "That was an unnecessarily harsh critique. That guy was supposed to encourage Shizuka to feel more comfortable in our world, not tear her down. This is going to be a real mess to clean up." As he spoke, his frustration was palpable, and he shook his head in disapproval.

"I wasn't expecting that either"

Hakken let out a heavy sigh, his breath visible in the frigid air. The unexpected reaction had caught him off guard, and he was still processing it. As he exhaled, a faint wisp of smoke escaped his lips, adding to the eerie atmosphere of the cold winter night.

The trio of students made their way back to Shizuka's house. Originally, they had planned to visit Eden Land, but the darkness had forced them to postpone their trip. Takiko was worried about a possible ambush, so she advised the three students to head home instead.

As they walked, Shizuka remained silent, lost in deep thought, and refrained from engaging in their conversation.

After Ayashiro regained his composure, he asked, "Does your father really hate Eden Land that much, Diva?"

"I think so. He tried so hard to become a powerful Divine Knight after all."

"Powerful?"

Hakken said something that caught Shizuka's attention and she immediately became engrossed in their conversation.

"Yup. Unfortunately, he is weak like me. He lacks the ability to control elements, summon beasts, and even fight physically."

"Seriously? How did he even become a Divine Knight?" Ayashiro asked, sounding bewildered.

"He wasn't technically a Divine Knight, but instead a council laborer with a sharp mind."

"Is that why he hates that world?"

"Probably. He wanted to become a Divine Knight after all."

As the sun had set a few minutes ago, the streetlights flickered on simultaneously, illuminating the path ahead. Ayashiro and Hakken walked at a steady pace, leaving Shizuka behind. They had already covered a considerable distance from Hakato's place, but Shizuka's house was still far away. While Ayashiro and Hakken chatted away, Shizuka walked slowly, lost in deep thought. The silence between them was only broken by the soft sound of their footsteps on the pavement covered in snow.

"Hey, Shizuka! Are you hurt or something?! Walk faster, goddamn it!" Ayashiro's irritation was palpable as he impatiently motioned for Shizuka to come closer.

Shizuka suddenly stopped walking and appeared to be anxious about something.

"I'm sorry, everyone. Please go ahead without me. I need to check something."

In a sudden motion, she spun around on her heels with a quickened pace and hastily fled the scene.

"Hey, wait! That stupid woman really gets on my nerves!" Ayashiro puts his palm on his face, annoyed.

Hakken chuckled softly.

This is gonna be interesting.

As soon as the students had left, Hakato heaved a deep sigh and set about tidying up the cabin. It was a task he had grown accustomed to over time, but it still felt strange to be the only human presence in the house, save for his loyal companion - a dog who could speak. The silence that enveloped him seemed to accentuate his solitude, and the emptiness of the cabin only served to remind him of his separation from his family - a separation that had lasted far too long.

With precision and care, he meticulously sweeps every corner of the floor, ensuring not a speck of dust is left behind. Once done, he carefully picks up the untidy dining chairs, and with a gentle touch, returns each of them to their original place, adding a sense of order and tidiness to the room.

"Don't you miss this feeling?" The Dobberman asked, placing himself on the pet bed beside the chimney.

"Miss what?"

"Well, the feeling of having people inside this cabin." While talking to his master, Lucky started scratching his ear.

Hakato let out a long breath, his eyes following Lucky's paw as it scratched his ear. Suddenly he changed the subject, not answering Lucky's question. "You're getting quite filthy," he remarked, eyeing Lucky's fur. "I think it's time for a bath." Lucky's ears perked up at the mention of the dreaded word, and he stopped scratching, looking at Hakato with uncertainty.

"Bath? Am I hearing things right?"

"Ah, I see. Has it been causing you discomfort? Don't worry, let me help you out. I can give you a refreshing bath to soothe that itch," Hakato offered with a serious expression on his face.

"No. . . I'm not. . . Wait! At this hour?!"

Hakato cautiously approached his trembling dog, taking one slow step at a time. As he drew closer, the dog's fear became more palpable, causing it to shiver and quiver. Hakato spoke in a harsh tone, "Come here, you dirty dog," as he forcefully reached out and scooped the dog up. Suddenly, the sound of someone knocking at the front door echoed through the house, causing both Hakato and the dog to freeze in alarm.

"Who is it? Why is someone trying to disturb me at this hour?"

"Whoever that person is, they are my savior!"

Hakato's arms were full as he approached the door, gently cradling Lucky in them. As he opened the door, his eyes widened in surprise at the sight before him. There stood Shizuka, one of his students, panting heavily with her hands resting on her knees. Her face was flushed, and strands of hair clung to her damp forehead, indicating that she had been running.

"Ms. Fujino?"

Shizuka's breaths were labored and sweat glistened on her forehead as she spoke, "There's something that I would like to tell you, Mr. Principal."