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Posted by: Raven Nightwing

« on: January 07, 2026, 03:22:06 pm »

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Akira knew that Shouta was right, but because of everything he'd been through and of course what Eri and Kusano went through as well, it was going to take time to trust others. Trusting Shouta and Sadie was a risk, but they didn't have a choice if it was only to buy enough time for them to get out of the mall. He hated thinking like that, but in case a full-blown fight broke out, he couldn't expect a lot of the people in the store to survive. The agents from Yokai Inc. are strong and that was the point. They will get what they want, even if innocent people had to die. Deep down, Akira didn't want anyone to die. It was the main reason why he was protective of Eri and Kusano. They were younger than him and were young and unable to properly control their powers. Akira had decent control over his abilities as a half-ghoul. The only thing that sucked was presenting as two secondary genders and food. He didn't want to eat people, but he couldn't digest a majority of food outside of ramen which his stomach seemed to tolerate.

Today was the only glimmer of hope he had that the three of them could get away from the agents of Yokai Inc. coming after them. If they get out of here safely today, they'd have a temporary place to stay. He didn't know how temporary, but it was better than running and hiding every day. 'It is better than running and hiding. We can't ... keep doing this ... They'll eventually catch us.' His gaze was briefly on Eri and Kusano who'd finished eating and was playing with Kusano's kitten before shifting back to Shouta who was still watching the security cameras for anyone suspicious. So far, just regular customers coming in and out of the store like normal or venturing to the cafe located in the bookstore where customers would sit and read books or scroll on their phones. None of them Akira recognized. That was until the camera that showed customers who came and went showed a slender figure, clearly female, wearing a hoodie, hat, and a face mask.

He couldn't tell who they were but immediately pointed at the screen and that particular camera specifically for Shouta to pay attention to. Whoever they were, they were just standing there with their hands in their pockets. Not moving or anything. Just watching at the entrance of the bookstore. "Hey, this camera ... that person is just standing there watching," Akira spoke up, his eyes narrowed. "They surely know we're here now and are just waiting to make a move," he said. He was worried now. If whoever agent this was wasn't entering the store, then it's possible the back exit of the store is staked out by them. 'This isn't good. If that person is a Yokai Inc. agent, then there's a good chance they have the entire outside staked out. Dammit ... we're not getting out of here without them capturing us ...'

Posted by: Shouta Akimoto

« on: September 14, 2025, 04:43:49 pm »

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Sho knew that feeling all too well when it came to trusting others due to the mistreatment he'd dealt with when he was in high school. It may have taken him a while to regain that trust in others, but he doesn't regret it. Otherwise, he wouldn't have met and become friends with Sadie and others he's crossed paths with that don't intentionally get on his nerves. Granted, Sadie could, too, but at the same time, she meant well as a person. That said, he couldn't be angry with her. Her brother Howard, on the other hand, completely different story. He didn't favor him all that much, and at most, he tolerated his presence whenever he was around. Unlike him, these kids really had no one they could depend on. They were on the run from an evil organization that clearly was using them as test subjects. He came to that conclusion, seeing the bandages on the other girl's arm, the one Akira addressed as Eri.

He didn't know if the same happened to Akira or Kusano, but whether or not it happened, Sho wasn't going to allow anyone from Yokai Inc. to take them back to that place. They deserved better lives compared to where they were before. Things were on high alert now in the store, and the main priority was to make sure that the customers got out of the store safe and sound. Sho could see through the surveillance that Sadie was going around and letting customers know that they were going to close up the store early. More than likely, the reason she was going to use was inventory. That wasn't for another two weeks, but it could be done early, just as long as it was done.

"I understand how hard it is to trust others, but you have to learn that there are good people out there that you can trust. Just like us. We may not have powers like you guys, but we will do what we can to make sure you three are safe," he told the young boy. Even if it meant they would end up dying to protect them, he would gladly do it again because he didn't believe it was right to capture anyone, child or adult, and use them as science experiments. The trauma of that experience will take a while to go away, but Sho will do what he can to house them until he figures out what to do next to go from there. 'If I do this, would I have to tell, Usui-san? Iie, we're not ... I don't know ... I'm unsure how he would be able to help anyway. It'd be too much to get him involved,' Sho thought.

Posted by: Raven Nightwing

« on: August 14, 2025, 03:38:37 pm »

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Akira stared at Shouta as he pretty much made the same declaration as Sadie did before leaving and going out onto the store front lines. If there's one thing he could appreciate about this was that Shouta wasn't trying to mince words with him. He was honest and didn't deny that even Sadie could be selfish. No one was perfect after all. Akira knew that, but as long as it wasn't at the expense of others, people can be selfish sometimes depending on the reasons behind why. This conversation strangely felt normal to the young boy. That was because he hadn't known what that was like since being technically created in a lab in a sense. Sure, he may have been born from two parents but outside of his mother who died in the explosion of the first Yokai Inc. research facility, the only normal conversations he had were with Eri and Kusano.

He nodded, yet frowned. He didn't want to get his hopes up. Not because he didn't believe that the people here wouldn't help them. No, it was more he didn't want to allow himself to feel happy at the possibility of them getting out of this place alive. Agents who worked with Yokai Inc. were still in the mall. There was no question and he knew all of their faces because they would always send the same ones after him and the girls. It was rare when it was someone different, but Akira noticed they were consistent when it came to making sure they had their sights set on their targets and not letting them get away. If it came down to it, Akira had already decided he'd sacrifice himself by getting captured just so Kusano and Eri could escape. The girls were valuable to them sure, but he was more value than both of them. Akira knew that. They'd only stop looking for them for awhile if they only had one of them. Akira was willing to be that scapegoat if push comes to shove.

He glanced briefly over at Kusano and Eri who were still sitting at the table eating the food that Shouta had bought while also playing with Kusano's kitten. For now, they were fine in the room they were in, eating, which he knew that Eri was hungry. He shifted his gaze back toward the screen and watched as customers were going in and out of the store. Akira shoved his hands in his pockets as he continued to stand there. "Um, well, thanks," he finally said after a long period of silence. "I appreciate this, even if it's really hard to trust that anyone is willing to help us. The favor will be returned when those people are dealt with," he added, narrowing his eyes.

Posted by: Shouta Akimoto

« on: August 02, 2025, 11:55:03 am »

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Sho continued to sit there and watch the monitors. His coworkers continued to do their jobs and helped the customers. He watched as Sadie jumped in to help alongside them, too, but he could tell that they were all on guard. In Sho's mind, he was hoping that nothing bad would go down. Admittedly, he was afraid of anything happening, but despite his fear, he was going to do what was asked of him and make sure to get the kids out. He may have disliked the idea that he couldn't go help the others, but it wouldn't do them or him any good since he couldn't fight, nor did he have any powers. He would be just in the way of the others, trying to keep those from Yokai Inc. from getting their hands on the kids. So, he accepted what his role was and kept his attention on the monitors for anyone out of the ordinary.

Beside him, the young boy, Akira, remained. Sho was lost in his thoughts until Akira spoke up, asking him about Sadie. He wasn't surprised by that question, considering the type of person Sadie was. She cared about everyone around her and would do anything to keep them safe. Granted, she had her bizarre and violent moments that typically terrified him, but that was usually for the sake of others she cared about. He didn't know how long these three would be around him, but for as long as they would be, he figured they would catch on to who Sadie is eventually, once they were around her long enough to see that for themselves. He continued to sit there staring at the screen, switching to different to two different cameras to see if there was anyone suspicious, but so far, seen no one. "Hai, Sadie-san is very much like this every day. But the situation can vary depending on those involved," Sho explained to Akira. "This is one side of her. She has many sides to her, but those sides of her show that she cares about others. And much like everyone, she can be selfish too, but not at the expense of others."

He looked away from the computer briefly and at Akira, the expression on his face neutral as he stared at the young boy. "Rest assured, we'll make sure to protect you guys and get you out of here safely." Sho meant that. Just because he was human and didn't have powers it didn't mean he didn't have a nature that desired to want to help and protect others. That would include these three kids.

Posted by: Raven Nightwing

« on: June 16, 2025, 03:37:09 pm »

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While the girls ate their food, Akira followed Sadie over toward her desk where he could see the lines of coding across the woman's computer's screen. Before he even said anything about it, to inquire what she was showing him, she'd began to explain everything to him about the system she had in place to prevent anyone trying to use devices that would cause the scents of everyone in the area to react to what the devices that the agents from Yokai Inc. had. Never before had he'd seen anyone this prepared. Not to mention, she also had skilled employees that either had specialized skills and/or powers to handle certain situations that happen to arise in the store. "A-Amazing," he replied, blinking in surprise. This woman hired people to help protect not only those that worked there but those that shopped there. This was not something he'd seen during his confinement at Yokai Inc. Everyone was in their individual cells and only allowed to come out when they were needed for testing. Even going as far as to throwing everyone under the bus that didn't side with the board of directors. Which is what happened and why he and the girls escaped like they did. Akira didn't think they would follow them here, but they did and because of that they were constantly on the run. He was tired of running. Just like the girls were. Enough was enough. It was time for action to be taken. He'd thought he'd be there alone to watch the surveillance alone but Shouta had been instructed to stay and report to Sadie via text if there was anyone suspicious that Akira had recognized that came into the store.

That look on the woman's face ... that was a look of declaration he'd never seen in anyone since he'd been here. She wasn't lying about wanting to help him, Kusano, and Eri. If she were, she'd gladly hand them over to the Yokai Inc. agents, yet she was willing to fight to protect them. Even getting the people that worked in the store with specialized skills ready ahead of time. Akira was grateful for both Sadie and Shouta going out of their way to help them and protecting others. She even wanted Shouta to make sure they escaped instead of going back to help her. He hoped that nothing would happen. That the day just passes and no agent from Yokai Inc. tries to come into the store. But the boy knew that wasn't going to happen. It was only a matter of time before they came to the bookstore to look around or even outright just go on the attack with no questions asked. Slipping his hands into his pockets, he stood there watching the computer screens, scanning the areas to look for anyone trying to disguise themselves as a regular customer. He didn't look away, but instead spoke to Shouta, his tone serious. "So, is your boss like this all the time?" he queried, wanting to know if this is how Sadie as a person. Some people have two sides to themselves, and since he didn't know this woman or Shouta, he couldn't help but to be curious. At least, converse instead of being silent the entire time.

Posted by: Shouta Akimoto

« on: June 05, 2025, 02:02:58 pm »

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Sadie was surprised by Akira's question. Mainly because she wasn't expecting it. It wasn't as if she couldn't answer that as she takes every precaution to make sure that her employees and customers are protected from idiots trying to stir up trouble in her store. She has cameras everywhere in her store, mainly disguised and hidden from the naked eye. While there are some that can be visibly seen, there are others for different purposes based on the knowledge that not everyone is human and can be seen or detected by normal surveillance equipment. She gave a nod to Akira, her hand placed on her hip while the other, she used to put her phone away in her back pocket. "I do have something setup," she replied, hoping that this will reassure him, "But it isn't what you'd normally expect," she added.

She gestured towards her computer for the boy to follow her, as she walked back toward it as she leaned over it to show him what was on it. There on the screen, were lines of code danced across an interface that seemed harmless at first glance. "I've installed a system that can detect specific signatures in the air, specifically the scents and pheromones of others and objects. Once the system detects that, what it does is sends out a neutralizing scent composition of its own throughout the store to avoid causing anyone to react to the opposing scents and pheromones," she explained. She didn't set up her store to be standard. Sadie went all out in making sure that the latest of products and technology could be used. With so many people with powers going around doing dumb shit to others for who knows what reasons, she wanted to be one step of ahead of anyone that fell into the category of try stupid shit, win stupid prizes. Plus, it's not as if all of her employees were completely powerless themselves. While there were some that were human with no powers, she did hire those with powers to assist her when shit hit the fan. They were given complete freedom to use their powers to stop oncoming threats. This didn't mean each threat required someone to die since that wasn't the goal. But in the case of the three kids that were with them, it looks like she may have to break that code.

She also did have human employees that had skillsets of their own that could also be useful. The sandy-haired blonde turned away no one that wanted to work, but also feel useful beyond just being a standard employee. This information and training protocol was implemented and has worked since her store's been open. Now they had a bigger threat on their hands. Sadie stood up straight with a sigh and a look of concern on her face. "I was hoping it wouldn't have to come to this, but I'll have to send out a specific code to specific employees that they need to be on guard but remain calm and on the look out. No one is getting hurt or dying today. I will make sure of that," Sadie said in a stern tone, pulling her phone back out and responding to a group chat already setup on her phone to communicate with those employees with a code word. Once she sent it, she didn't have to do anything else but wait.

Sho was surprised by this. He was aware of the protocols Sadie had setup for the store in case of emergencies. They weren't used regularly, but they were used mainly for basic troublemakers and shoplifters. In more serious cases were rare. This would be the first time that Sho has seen it needing to be enacted. He joined Sadie and Akira over by the computer which displayed surveillance across the store. He looked her and asked, "Since I'm staying back here with the three of them, do you want me to text you and let you know if he sees someone familiar from Yokai Inc., Sadie-san?" They didn't want to be caught off guard and unable to stop those people when they walked into the store. There's no telling what those agents that were after the children were capable of. The only thing they definitely knew is that they would have powers.

Sadie nodded to Sho's question. "Yes, you will be texting me since I'll have my phone on me while I'm out on the floor. We can only communicate with texting since, we're not sure if anyone who comes in will have an ability that allows them to hear what's being said or done from further distances. So, I don't want to take that chance and give away what we have planned. I hate the idea of putting the customers at risk, but if their first attempt to find these kids is to use a scent diffuser, then that gives us an advantage to stop it without the customers reacting to it and getting them out as quickly as we possibly can without them getting hurt. My skilled employees for that will be stationed in specific areas of the store to make sure of that. And like I said, before, to get you three out, we'd have to leave through the back of the store without going through the floor at all. However, since I can't leave my employees to find for themselves entirely, I have to stay to make sure they're okay. When they give me the go ahead, then I'll return to the back to get out. This can't be messed up so, Sho-tan, sit with him and keep a close watch out. Once he tells you he recognizes someone from Yokai Inc. text me descriptions of what they're wearing from head to toe. Be specific as possible," she advised him.

"But what are you going to do once that's done? Kicking them out will just give what we have going on away, won't it?" Sho asked. He didn't think Sadie would advise the fighting skilled coworkers of his to take them out. So what was she going to do when they came in? He couldn't help but be a little worried about that.

Sadie merely chuckled. "I'm a professional at putting on a show, so, I'll treat them like any other customer and pretend to give them a little tour around the bookstore, showing them where everything is, suggesting things for them to buy, things like that." She giggled while grinning wide. "I've never failed before and I don't plan on failing now," she declared as she walked from behind her desk to head to the door. Before leaving, she turned to look at Sho and Akira. "In the event something ends up happening to me before I'm able to get to you guys and get you out. Sho-tan, you know where our exit is back here. Get the three of them out. They'll be a car in the back waiting to drive you out. Don't try to come and save me. I need you guys out of here over you risking your lives to save mine, alright? I know you, Sho. You'll try and come to help me if things get out of hand."

"But Sadie-san -" Sho was immediately cut off when Sadie held up her hand.

"I mean it, Sho-tan. Get the three of them out of here if things turn out bad. I mean that." Sadie then smiled. "I'll be okay. I ain't going down without a fight. You can believe that. Now, I'm headed out onto the floor to patrol. Text me who and what you see," she said as she left her office, closing the door behind her to head out on the floor.

Sho frowned, but nodded. He knew she was right. He would go back for her if he believed he could because she was his friend. However, he couldn't risk getting the kids caught by those people and taken back to where they escaped from to be used for experiments or simply tortured for trying to escape them. He'd be risking them getting captured if he tried to help Sadie if things got out of hand. The risk couldn't be taken. And so, he set down at Sadie's desk and began to view over the surveillance over the store. "Guess, we just have to wait and see what happens now," he said, resting his chin on the back of his hands, while keeping an eye on the screen in front of him, while keeping his phone nearby him.

Posted by: Raven Nightwing

« on: May 21, 2025, 09:46:43 am »

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Akira couldn't help but be impressed that these two were working so hard to help them. While he still had doubts in the back of his mind, he couldn't complain that nobody wasn't trying to help them at all. Plus, it was either this or continue to run with all three of them getting captured and taken to the new Yokai Inc. facility. He couldn't let that happen. Sadie and Sho were willing to help them, so he had no choice but to cave for now. But at least he made it clear that if they betrayed them, he wouldn't hesitate to kill them both, which was accepted easily. The two of them were clearly human, but there were actual humans that worked for Yokai Inc. as well. They weren't all executive monsters in lab coats and suits. That much he did know. It's why he hadn't tried until now to ask for help because he couldn't be sure if anyone was working for those people. These two clearly weren't, but there wasn't a guarantee they would be approached individually later and asked to hand them over.

For that, he had to keep a close watch on them for his protection and the girls. They relied on him because he was older, but even Akira knew he could only do so much. He listened to them talk, but then he looked down at Kusano who lightly tugged on his shirt. Looking down at her he smiled. "What is it, Ku-chan?" he asked her.

Kusano pointed over to the table where she'd been sitting before where she'd left the food that Sho had gotten for her, with the kitten perched in bread mode next to it. "Shouta got me food. Do you want to eat? I got extra fries," she said in an innocent tone.

Eri looked up from behind Akira at the mention of food and said, "Can we eat, Aki? I'm really hungry?" she'd asked him.

Considering all they'd been living off of to eat are the vegetables Kusano managed to grow using her own abilities, they did need something more to eat to feel full. He assumed that would be later at Sho's place whenever they left as this really wasn't enough for the three of them. Akira felt he could wait a little longer to eat and simply nodded as he looked at both of the girls. "Sure, go ahead and eat you too. I'll eat later. You need it more than I do. I'll be fine," Akira said to them.

"You sure, Aki? We can share," Kusano said. She didn't want to see Akira going hungry with only her and Eri eating. It didn't seem fair to her.

However, Akira patted both girls atop their heads lightly and leaned his head towards the table, indicating for them to go and eat. "It's okay, I'm fine. Go eat while there's time to do it. We won't be able to carry all of that later with us." He wasn't sure if there would be a chance for them to save any of it and it wasn't a lot of food from what he could see. So, Akira thought it best that Eri and Kusano ate while they still had time to do so. He smiled at them both then gently pushed them toward the table. "Go ahead. Besides, it's better I keep watch some how in case I recognize someone from Yokai Inc. in the store snooping around." As Kusano took Eri by the hand and walked over toward the table where the food was laid out, Akira, in the meantime, turned to face Sadie and Sho.

"Hey, you wouldn't happen to have surveillance of some sort or your computer. If you do, I can easily point out anyone that comes into the store that may work for Yokai Inc. that's been chasing us around and still lurking about the mall trying to find us. I'm telling you this now because even if you close the store early and get everyone situated to leave, they'll try and slip someone in to set off a scent releaser to immobilize everyone to search every part of it. It hits everyone when you least expect it. I've seen it. Those things are dangerous to everyone, including us if we inhale anything release from it," he explained. He wanted to warn them now before they did anything. He knew how those Yokai Inc. agents worked. They had tools to lure out those that have escaped and new targets they're seeking. The sooner these two knew about it now, the better. If they had something to combat that, that would helpful for them all being able to get out safely with no injuries and deaths. Those people didn't care if they killed innocents to get to them. As long as they acquired their targets, that's all that mattered to them. He wished he was stronger so that he could take them down himself but he couldn't. He had to train more with his powers.

Posted by: Shouta Akimoto

« on: April 21, 2025, 03:45:46 pm »

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"Okay, that's fair," Sadie said simply. She had no reason to argue with the kid's threat. It made sense as they were clearly on the run from a dangerous organization that was after them. He was taking a risk in trusting both her and Sho. She felt bad for them and understood where he was coming from. Even with her own anger issues when pressed, she knew she couldn't withstand the strength of someone with powers. She could try, but knew she would no doubt fail. That hadn't meant she wouldn't stand up to them if they were being Dicks to other people. That's just how she was. Instead of being upset, she simply smiled, walking over toward Akira and gave him an affectionate rub atop his head. "Don't worry. We'll do our best to help as well as protect you guys. If it comes down to having to fight those people that are after you, then I'm sure my boyfriend will have no problem helping to protect you too, along with his crew. For now, you guys can relax in here." She then turned partially toward Sho. "Sho-tan, there's not much to do today and we have enough hands on deck, so why don't you hang back here with them for awhile," she suggested.

Sho blinked in surprise. "E-Eh? Are you sure? I just came back from lunch. I don't mind watching them, but I just don't want it to interfere with my shift. I know you're also busy as well and you get off later than I do," he said.

"No worries. Just hang out until I get off work and we'll leave together. I'll close the store down but you guys will leave out the back but I want you to stay there until you see me. I'll lock up the store in the front, making sure everyone else on the last shift is out," Sadie explained. She wanted to make sure they all got out of there safely. Chances are, those people were still after the kids and it was risky leaving out the front of the store. They did their best to remain inconspicuous, but they would still have to lay low until they all got to Sho's place. She'd contact Zach later about everything, but right now, she couldn't take the risk in putting the kids in danger. Reaching into her pocket, she took out her cellphone and started working on sending out texts. "I'm texting Zach right now to get started on the conditions I set to help you guys out. I'll also reach out to my personal car service from my family to pick us up later behind the building. We'll close up a little earlier today while it is still busy in the mall. The more traffic, the better. That way, we can leave without being noticed by anyone that could be watching."

Sho knew Sadie was right. They couldn't risk leaving out the store front with the kids if they were being watched. It wouldn't surprise him at all if those people already knew they were here and staking out the store, pretending to be customers. They wouldn't know for certain without security cameras and letting the kids see if they recognize anyone that is working for Yokai Inc. He would reach out to Yuuto but they currently weren't talking at the moment after things got awkward when he was still recovering from dealing with Post-Heat symptoms. Plus, being around him that day had caused Yuuto to go into a Rut and a part of him felt terrible for that. For now, he'll just work with Sadie and Zach regarding this situation. He didn't want to bother the other male with this. "To clarify, you want me to stay on the clock for the same amount of time as you and then clock out or clock out now?" he asked. Just in case something did happen, hopefully it wouldn't, he didn't want to think about something like this that was hardly important when lives were at stake.

Sadie looked up from her phone after sending a text and then looked at Sho. "Go ahead and clock out. Just to be safe. I'll pull some things off the shelf and bring them in here so they'll be entertained for the time being, but I'll be out on the floor keeping an eye on things. Keep your phone on you and I'll shoot you texts to let you know what's going on. Five more hours and I'll make sure everyone's out of the store. Can't have it looking like everyone is panicking and on edge."

Sho nodded. "Alright."

Posted by: Raven Nightwing

« on: April 09, 2025, 11:23:44 am »

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Akira raised a brow at Sadie regarding her comment on her place of living. He didn't get the impression that she had anything to hide that was related to Yokai Inc's involvement. The young boy could tell she meant something else entirely and decided not to question it. He glanced over at Shouta who had been the one tasked with housing him along with Kusano and Eri. Hearing that there were other people that had powers and aren't human lived where he did, Akira felt a bit at ease. For many years, those people made it seem like it wasn't possible for humans to coexist alongside other species when it was the furthest thing from the truth. Plus, like Eri and Kusano, he was tired of running too. They had to trust someone, even if it's temporary. Sadie did present the choice of having military officers train Eri and Kusano to use their powers, but that would require reaching out to her boyfriend. He didn't know how to feel about that. It could put attention on them associating with military officers, but Akira wasn't trained at all to be able to help the girls with their powers. They needed someone with similar who had similar abilities to their own that could.

Kusano stood there, looking up at him, while Eri was still hiding behind him, unsure of everything. This was really his call. They couldn't keep running from place to place. Eventually, they were going to end up putting innocent people in danger and Akira hadn't wanted to do that either. He sighed again, carefully bringing Eri from behind him to stand beside Kusano as he knelt down before the two of them with a small smile. "They're willing to help us, girls. What do you say? Wanna stop running?" he asked them both, giving each a rub top their head.

Kusano was confused at what Akira was doing at first, but when asked if she and Eri wanted to stop running, her eyes beamed. She was happy that Akira was going to let Sadie and Shouta help them. Tears began to fall down the sides of her face. She quickly used her hands to wipe them away as she nodded. "I don't wanna run anymore. I wanna stay with them. They were nice to me," she replied.

Eri looked over at Kusano who'd started crying. She felt the same as Kusano, but she still wasn't used to other people outside of the three of them so she was mostly unsure. What she was sure of is that she was tired of running and hiding from Yokai Inc. agents that were after them. Though a frown was on her face, she also nodded as well to Akira's question. "I feel the same, Aki," she said softly.

Getting their answers, Akira stood back up, giving Sadie and Shouta his full attention, his expression was stern. "We're in agreement. We accept your terms." There was nothing more that he needed to say. He would see how this works out for them and go from there. "Make no mistake. If either of you betray us, I won't hesitate to kill you. Just so you know," he warned the two of them. He wouldn't hesitate at all to do what he said to protect Kusano and Eri both. He wanted to make sure he was aware that he would be keeping a close eye on the two of them and anyone they associated with.

Posted by: Shouta Akimoto

« on: March 14, 2025, 03:47:20 pm »

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"I see. I was hoping it didn't have anything to do with experiments but I guess that is actually the case. It was a thought of mind based on the three of you running from them. But the reasons behind why they want you guys is disgusting. That said, you've nothing to worry about because we're going to protect you guys. Well, you're probably gonna have to stay at Sho-tan's place because although mine is big, it has ... very inappropriate things that children shouldn't see," Sadie said, rubbing the back of her head while laughing awkwardly.

Sho only sweat dropped at what Sadie had said, but then he realized that it's because of what she'd said that he'd have to be the one to watch after the three of them. "Wait huh? How is that going to work, Sadie-san? My room is already small," he said to her.

Clearing her throat, she turned to Sho. "It'll be temporary. Plus, it's not as if there aren't any non-humans that don't live where you do because there are. The place where you live prides itself on making sure its residents are safe. I'm pretty sure all you have to do is talk to the manager of the inn to beware of anyone trying to infiltrate the place and capture them. They'd be the ones dumb enough to attempt."

"Yeah, but I-"

"No buts! The kids gotta go somewhere and we both swore we'd do what we could to help them. We can't go back on that. Now, as for training the girls to use their powers, I'd have to ask my boyfriend about that. He's a military guy who is pretty much what you'd call a headless man. Heh, I fun headless man. A-Anyway, if you explain to him what their powers are, I'm sure he'd be able to find some people in his crew that might have similar abilities that they can train with. If that's something you're interested in. Your choice," Sadie said to Akira with her hands placed on her hips. She wasn't going to force the kids to this situation. They're the ones that needed the help and she was offering it. While she couldn't keep them at her place, Sho's was the next best option. It would be the one place those Yokai Inc agents wouldn't think to look.

Sho, in the meantime, had sighed, lightly scratching the side of his face. "Well, if it's temporary until we can figure out something better for them, then I guess I can house them for a little bit," he replied. He wanted to help but he was wondering where all three of them were going to sleep. His room wasn't that big. It's not as if he'd ever thought to upgrade it for more space. He didn't need it. It was just him. He may have to consider one of the larger rooms on the second floor of the Amestia Inn. "I'll just have to let those at the front desk know about the arrangement and the inn manager."

"Alright then, so we're all good on where they'll stay for a bit. Now, it's up to you guys. What do you say? You fine with this arrangement?" Sadie asked Akira again.

Posted by: Raven Nightwing

« on: March 03, 2025, 03:09:09 pm »

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Akira couldn't help but be surprised that these two were able to deduce that the agents from Yokai Inc aren't the good guys. He was still unsure about trusting the two of them. However, he'd watched Kusano around the guy who was addressed as 'Sho-tan' by Sadie. He hadn't done anything to her or with her outside of buying food for her to eat. It made the young boy feel bad because he knew that Eri was also hungry as well. In fact, none of them had really eaten a full meal that wasn't the vegetables that Kusano had grown through the use of her powers. He knew having her do that was draining enough. She was young and not great at controlling her magic. It's even worse if she were to cry which would potentially destroy the building and give away their location. He hadn't wanted that. They've been running long enough and pretty soon, they weren't going to be able to keep running. Either all of them or one of them would get caught. He'd rather sacrifice himself over letting the girls get captured. They were more valuable to Yokai Inc. than himself.

Sighing, he took off the beanie hat he wore and ran his fingers through his hair. They had to trust someone, even if it was temporary so they wouldn't keep drawing attention to themselves. Temporary shelter somewhere safe was better than no shelter and constantly running. His eyes were narrowed as he stared at both Sadie and Sho. He really didn't want to regret telling these two anything but he had to look out for Eri and Kusano more than anything. If those two were safe, that's all he cared about. He couldn't die as easily as they could. He put his pride aside for now and began speaking. "Yokai Inc is a corporation that exists in the Yokai Realm that is basically where monsters live. Although they have human identities, that is all they are. The Yokai Realm has rules when it comes to anyone that leaves there and comes to the human world. For years there haven't been any issues and many monsters do want to visit the human world to experience living among humans and learn from them. But Yokai Inc.'s purpose as a hidden organization is to gather monsters of all kinds and humans, experiment on them and create super soldier monsters they can control as they please," Akira explained.

Eri and Kusano stood there as Akira began to explain what Yokai Inc. was and their purpose to Sadie and Sho. "We escaped because the first facility had been destroyed in a revolt between employees that weren't trying to harm those that were test subjects and the board of directors. Those employees were killed in the destruction." He looks over at Kusano briefly with a frown. "Kusano's parents were the ones that helped us escape at the cost of their lives. However, the Yokai Inc. facility has been reformed and rebuilt in another location in the Yokai Realm and they've sent out agents that willingly work for them with no questions asked to find all the test subjects that escaped. Kill or capture. That is their goal. The three of us are on their capture list because our powers are valuable to them. And they'll kill and experiment on us to replicate our abilities to breed a stronger monster. Eri and I are ... were test subjects. Kusano wasn't. I don't plan on letting her become one either. If you can truly help us then, you have a lot to prove that."

Akira meant that. He's willing to trust Sadie and Sho if they're able to help them and keep them out of harm's way. It doesn't matter to him if they have powers. There is always a way for the three of them to train to use and perfect their abilities over time to where they can properly protect themselves. Well, he knew that Eri and Kusano needed more than anything. They were younger than him. Even when they are apart, they needed to be able to protect themselves without him. He kept his eyes on the two adults, his stern expression not changing. "I also need you to promise you can find someone that can help the two of them train with their powers as they're quite unstable in different ways. Are you able to do that too?" Akira asked.

Posted by: Shouta Akimoto

« on: January 18, 2025, 11:31:07 pm »

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Sadie and Sho were glad that Kusano was able to calm her friend down. They both understood that he was worried about her and how distrustful he was of the two of them and others. They may not know the full extent of their situation but were willing to hear them out. That's only if he was willing to tell them anything about what was going on and why they were being targeted. Lowering her hands, she walked over toward the kids and knelt down in front of them. She flashed them a warm smile as she held her hand out to the boy that Kusano had called 'Aki' for him to shake it. "As I said, We're not your enemy and wish to help and protect you guys. Me and Sho-tan both will. I promise," she assured the boy. "So, are you able to tell us more about these people from Yokai Inc. and why they're after you? It'll help in being able to protect you guys from them." She wasn't sure if the boy would tell her anything since Kusano wouldn't or couldn't. Either way, she wanted to help these kids as much as she could.

Sho had also put his hands down but bowed his head in response to what Sadie had said, then stood up straight. "Sadie-san is right. We will protect you guys. To do that, we need to know why you're being targeted. It doesn't seem like you guys did anything that would warrant such an action. The three of you are very protective of one another which is a good thing. So, that says that the people after you aren't the good guys here. In any case, we need to figure out where they can stay in the meantime, Sadie-san. It's not as if they can stay in the mall after hours," said Sho.

"Well, I have sort of an idea for that but first, lets see what this young man has to say first," Sadie replied.

Posted by: Raven Nightwing

« on: October 30, 2024, 02:16:18 pm »

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Akira wasn't sure if he could trust the words of these two. Granted, the guy who brought her here hasn't done anything to hurt her from what he's witnessed. Still, he wanted to keep an eye on him just in case. He'd bought Kusano food to eat which he'd noticed was placed on the table that the young girl was sitting at. Clearly, there was nothing going on that deemed this guy and this woman suspicious. But he had to be careful. It's not as if they hadn't been fooled before by Yokai Inc agents. He was surprised to hear that this woman, who was addressed as "Sadie" didn't have powers. If she didn't then he wondered was it the same for the guy based on how he spoke. He didn't seem like he had powers. He seemed timid. Akira was conflicted. The two adults were putting their hands up in surrender to show they meant no harm. That wasn't something the Yokai Inc agents have done. They usually would attempt to be nice when either of them were alone then try to forcibly take them back when their guard was down. This isn't like that. Akira was assessing the situation. He was still on guard and had no qualms about attacking either of these people and getting Kusano and Eri out of this store and to someplace safe. However, Kusano had then slid out of the chair, now holding her kitten in her arms that'd meowed normally. If they were truly unsafe around these two, Kusano's kitten would've been frantically meowing or hissing at them. But it wasn't doing that. Akira's stance remained as he watched Kusano's movements as she walked over towards him.

"Please, don't hurt them, Aki. They've been nice to me. I just ... didn't tell them about those people because ... I didn't want to cause them trouble," Kusano said as she stood before Akira.

"Hrn." That was Akira's response as he looked at Kusano for a moment before looking back up and at Sadie and Sho.

"Please, Aki. You can trust them. They aren't bad people," said Kusano, gearing up to cry again.

Seeing that, Akira sighed and lowered his arms from the stance he'd taken. He then placed his hand atop Kusano's head and began to gently rub it. He didn't like seeing her upset for one and two if she cried anymore than this, this whole office they were in would be a disaster. He didn't want to do anything that would draw attention to their location. That's just what those people are waiting for. "Fine, just don't cry here. You're going to cause them problems if you do that," he said in a stern tone. Despite distrusting Sadie and Sho, he decided to trust Kusano but he couldn't help but remain on guard regarding those two. "So, for now, I'll trust you for the time being. But keep in mind, I won't hesitate to kill either of you should you betray us and hand us over to the Yokai Inc agents." Akira narrowed his eyes as his expression shown to the two were serious.

"U-Um, are you sure, Aki?" Eri asked in a quiet tone, steady hiding behind him. She wasn't sure if the situation they were in was a good or bad one. She just didn't want to go back to those people and be used like an experiment anymore. Who knows what they'll do to her if they got their hands on her and dragged her back. Eri didn't want to think about it. It's why she followed Akira and Kusano to leave that place. If Akira and Kusano trust these two people, then Eri was willing to try, if only a little until she was sure herself about them.

"It's fine. I'm willing to hear what they have to say," Akira replied as he waited for the two's response since he gave into listening to Kusano and trust Sadie and Sho. For now...

Posted by: Shouta Akimoto

« on: October 10, 2024, 10:51:08 am »

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Sadie said nothing. Instead, she kept her eyes on the young boy that Kusano had addressed as Aki and the young girl behind him she'd addressed as Eri. Clearly, he was on guard because of whatever they'd gone through before ending up here in her office. While she can't say she can relate, she could understand being on high alert when it came to worrying about being hurt or someone she cared about getting hurt by unsuspecting people looking to cause trouble. Her expression remained serious, contrasting with her usual casual and exciteable nature. She pushed herself off the wall, standing up straight to face the young boy and girl with her hands held up in surrender.

"I'm not your enemy here, young man. I want to protect your friend and you two as well," she told him. "She didn't tell me much of what you three went through. Just the name of the organization that is after you. I've never heard of them but based on their name, I concluded that it's a monster related organization. But that's what I came up with based on what your friend gave me. Her body language tells me there's more going on with this Yokai Inc. that I don't know about. What I do know is that you guys went through something that's obviously horrible and you're running away from them. I've no intentions of handing you over to those people. If anything, I'll hide you from them to the best of my abilities. I may not have any powers but I do have connections that I can use to make sure you three are safe. I do hope you'll see that I'm telling you the truth."

Sho nodded in agreement with Sadie. He noticed how the young boy was protecting the little girl behind him and he could tell that he would do whatever it took to keep her safe. He surely felt the same about Kusano as well. Sho didn't doubt that about the young boy. He stood up, gently patting Kusano atop her head to comfort her before taking the same stance as Sadie, raising his hands up in surrender. This wouldn't be enough to make the boy believe them but it is a start. It was all Sho knew he could do to help Sadie out to help convince him that they meant no harm to them.

"Sadie-san is telling you the truth. We've no reason to harm any of you. We'll do what we can to make sure the three of you are safe. Whether we have powers or not." Sho was never jealous of those around him that had powers. If anything, he always found them fascinating and cool when he was younger. A part of him still feels that way but he doesn't break out into over-excitement about it like used to. As an adult, he knows those with powers have different lives compared to his own. There would always be something going on with them that he would never be able to understand. However, he wouldn't turn any of them away because of that. That included these children. He wasn't sure what he and Sadie could do to house them somewhere but that's something that could be decided once they could get all of them on their side.

Posted by: Raven Nightwing

« on: September 14, 2024, 10:47:06 pm »

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Kusano's heart raced as she watched Sadie stride purposefully toward the door of her office, an unsettling sense of dread pooling in the pit of her stomach. More so when Sho had asked the woman if everything was alright, only to be gestured to be quiet as she inched toward the door. Kusano couldn't help but feel worried that those people from Yokai Inc. had somehow tracked her down. She couldn't help but feel frightened in that moment. 'Oh no ... did ... did they find me? Are they going to hurt Sadie and Shouta and try to take me? I ... I don't want that!' Kusano’s fingers curled tightly around the fabric of her dress while Sadie stood next to the door calmly with her arms folded. Kusano's kitty sensed the child's worry and hopped down from the table and into her lap in an attempt to comfort her. It helped, but only a little as Kusano shakily petty the small feline. Every sound felt amplified in the tense silence of the office. The thought of Sadie and Sho getting hurt because of her was scary to her. Kusano didn't want to be taken, but she didn't want to see the two of them hurt either. If she had to, she'd go willingly to avoid this.

That was the decision Kusano came to. She didn't want to, but she couldn't risk anyone who didn't have powers getting involved with the people from Yokai Inc. They were ruthless and didn't care who they hurt to get to her and her friends. The green-eyed child wanted to cry, thinking that it was all going to be over since the three of them were held up in Sadie's office. Kusano couldn't help but feel that if she were stronger and had better control over her powers, she could protect Sadie and Sho. But with her powers, as they were, all they would do is cause destruction if she used them. She sat there, watching Sadie's movements and preparing herself for what was to come. It was then that the woman had swung the door open with a loud creak. Although Kusano had prepared herself for an ambush, what'd came was a loud thud to the floor of the office. She'd shut her eyes tightly but upon hearing the loud thud, she'd slowly opened them. To her surprise, two familiar figures tumbled into the room. It was Akira and Eri! Kusano's eyes widened in surprise, but it didn't stop the stream of tears that'd begun to fall down the sides of her face. Her friends were okay! That made her so happy seeing them that she couldn't help but cry. "Aki-chan! Eri-chan!" Kusano cried out happily despite her tears.

As for Akira and Eri, on the other hand, Akira hadn't expected the door to fling open. He was trying to hear the conversation between the three of them that he didn't take into account that this could happen. Immediately, Akira got up from the floor, helping Eri up to her feet but hiding her behind him as his eyes were now on the threesome in the room. Seeing that Kusano was alright, he felt relieved. Although she was crying, the young teen could tell they weren't tears of sadness. She was glad they were okay as she'd called their names out in relief. Akira couldn't help but scan the office for potential threats. His eyes had settled on Sadie who'd spoken to them and had been the one to open the door open and causing him and Eri to collide in on the floor. His eyes were narrowed, ready to fight if he needed to. They may have been able to escape the Yokai Inc. agents that'd been chasing them originally, but there was always a chance there were some already stationed around the city with orders to capture anyone who'd escaped the original facility. Akira refused to go back to being an experiment and he sure as hell wasn't going to allow for Kusano and Eri to go through it either. He knew things would be ten times worse.

"Why should I trust that you're not up to anything?" Akira finally spoke, responding to what Sadie had said when she'd opened the door. Eri hid behind Akira but peeked to see Kusano was safe and sound along with her kitty. She didn't know what was going to happen now that the three of them were together. Were they safe or were they in danger? She couldn't be sure. All she was, was worried.

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Posted by: Raven Nightwing

Posted by: Shouta Akimoto

Posted by: Raven Nightwing

Posted by: Shouta Akimoto

Posted by: Raven Nightwing

Posted by: Shouta Akimoto

Posted by: Raven Nightwing

Posted by: Shouta Akimoto

Posted by: Raven Nightwing

Posted by: Shouta Akimoto

Posted by: Raven Nightwing

Posted by: Shouta Akimoto

Posted by: Raven Nightwing

Posted by: Shouta Akimoto

Posted by: Raven Nightwing

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