Chapter 32: Paranormal Pandemonium

The Paranormal Task Force agents stood in formation, their black suits immaculate despite the diner's cracked pavement and flickering neon lights. Ryo, meanwhile, was busy trying to process the absurdity of the situation.

"You guys really show up like this?" Ryo asked, gesturing to their sleek outfits. "I mean, it's a bit... Men in Black, don't you think?"

The lead agent adjusted his tie, unamused. "This is standard protocol, Mr. Tanaka."

Kenji leaned closer to Ryo, whispering, "Betcha they've got sunglasses and neuralyzers in the van."

Before Ryo could respond, Sora chimed in from behind the diner's counter. "Ryo, if they offer you a membership card, ask if it comes with dental. My cousin joined a secret organization once—no benefits. Total scam."

The lead agent cleared his throat, clearly not in the mood for jokes. "Mr. Tanaka, your recent display of power has raised some concerns. We're here to ensure that you're... properly monitored."

"Monitored?" Akira said, stepping forward with a sharp glare. Her daggers were sheathed but still visible, a clear warning. "You mean controlled."

Kael crossed his arms. "I second that. Last I checked, flaming swords weren't illegal."

"Technically," Kenji piped up, "starting a fire in a public space without a permit is a misdemeanor."

Ryo sighed. "Kenji, not helping."

---

Negotiations or Something Like It

The lead agent took a deep breath, clearly regretting his career choices. "This isn't about legality. It's about responsibility. You've demonstrated powers that could pose a threat to public safety."

"Powers I didn't ask for!" Ryo shot back, waving his katana. "Do you know how many shirts I've burned through since this started?"

"Four," Kenji said helpfully. "And that's not counting the pants."

The agent ignored him, pulling out a sleek tablet. A holographic projection flickered to life, displaying a detailed report of Ryo's recent exploits.

"Shadow Flame manifestation during combat," the agent read aloud. "Uncontrolled energy surges. Property damage. Endangering bystanders—"

"Endangering?!" Ryo interrupted. "That guy I saved was standing in the middle of an exploding factory! What was I supposed to do, offer him a latte?"

The agent raised an eyebrow. "Perhaps a more measured approach."

Kenji snorted. "Measured approach? Buddy, Ryo's idea of 'measured' is deciding whether to order one takoyaki tray or two."

"Two is always the right answer," Ryo muttered.

---

Unexpected Guests

Just as the tension in the room reached its peak, a loud bang echoed from outside. The group spun toward the sound, weapons drawn, as the diner's window shattered.

A hulking, monstrous figure stomped into view, its glowing eyes fixed on the group.

"Let me guess," Ryo said, raising his katana. "This is another one of Kurogami's goons?"

The lead agent frowned. "That's a Class-4 Aberration. It's not supposed to be here."

"Well, it is here," Akira snapped, drawing her daggers. "And it's about to redecorate your faces if we don't act."

Kenji grabbed a frying pan from the kitchen. "Don't worry, I've got this."

"You're bringing a pan to a monster fight?" Ryo asked, incredulous.

Kenji grinned. "Worked in the movies."

---

The Battle Begins

The Aberration roared, lunging toward the diner with surprising speed for its size. The team scattered, dodging chunks of debris as the creature smashed through the walls.

Ryo activated the Shadow Flame, his katana blazing to life. "Alright, big guy. Let's see how you like fire!"

He charged, swinging his blade in a wide arc. The flames struck the creature's arm, but it barely flinched.

"Well, that's not good," Ryo muttered, dodging a retaliatory swipe.

Meanwhile, Kenji ran in circles around the creature, waving his frying pan like a lunatic. "Hey! Over here, ugly!"

"What are you doing?!" Sora shouted from behind the counter.

"Distracting it!" Kenji called back. "It's working, isn't it?"

The Aberration snarled, turning its attention to Kenji. He yelped, sprinting toward the kitchen.

"Plan B!" Kenji yelled. "Somebody do something cool!"

---

Ryo's New Technique

As the battle continued, Ryo felt the same surge of energy from before. His katana's flames grew darker, almost black, as the Shadow Flame intensified.

"Alright," Ryo said, gripping his weapon tightly. "Let's try something new."

He focused, channeling the energy into the blade. The flames began to spiral, forming a vortex around the sword.

"What's he doing?" Akira asked, slicing through a smaller creature that had appeared.

"Something reckless, probably," Kael replied, shooting an arrow into the Aberration's back.

The flames around Ryo's katana condensed, creating a glowing sphere at its tip.

"Shadow Spiral Slash!" Ryo yelled, slashing downward.

The attack unleashed a powerful wave of energy, cutting through the Aberration and leaving a smoldering crater in its wake.

The creature collapsed, its body disintegrating into ash.

Kenji peeked out from the kitchen, still clutching his frying pan. "Whoa. You actually did something cool."

"Don't sound so surprised," Ryo said, panting.

---

Aftermath and More Chaos

As the dust settled, the lead agent stepped forward, his expression unreadable. "That... was impressive."

"Thanks," Ryo said, sheathing his katana. "Does this mean you're not going to arrest me?"

The agent hesitated. "We'll... discuss your status later. For now, you're free to go."

"Great," Ryo said, clapping his hands together. "Let's celebrate with takoyaki!"

Kenji grinned. "Finally, something we agree on."

Akira rolled her eyes. "You two and your food..."

As the group headed out, Sora stayed behind, watching the agents pack up their equipment. Her gaze lingered on the shattered diner, a small smile playing on her lips.

"Paranormal Task Force, huh?" she muttered. "This is going to get interesting."