Melody of the Deathly: The Encounter with <DIVA>

The atmosphere at Captain Kasukabe's funeral was heavy and somber, as if the very sky shared in the pain of those gathered. Gentle breezes carried the faint scent of the white flowers arranged around the coffin, but even their fragrance could not dispel the sorrow that pervaded the scene.

The autopsy concluded that Captain Kasukabe's death was not a murder, but a suicide. The marks on her body, along with the fingerprints found on the gun at the scene, all pointed to Kasukabe ending her own life in his final moments.

Everyone stood in a circle around the coffin, tears streaming down each face. The members of the AST team, including myself and Origami, who had once fought alongside Kasukabe, could not hold back their emotions. They bowed their heads, their shoulders trembling with muffled sobs. The sounds of weeping filled the air, blending with the rustling of the wind through the trees, creating a mournful symphony of sorrow.

"Hey, Origami, is this our fate too when we face the spirits?"

"Not killed by them, but haunted to death by them?"

"Maybe."

Some tried to remain stoic, maintaining a strong front like warriors, but their red eyes and labored breaths betrayed them. They had once been fearless soldiers, but now, in the face of this great loss, they were nothing more than fragile humans, wounded by the sudden departure of the captain they revered.

I took on the task of reading the condolences, my voice low and halting, making the atmosphere even heavier. The words of praise for Captain Kasukabe's courage, sacrifice, and dedication over the years were mentioned, but instead of offering comfort, they only deepened the sorrow.

A few of Kasukabe's comrades stepped forward, laying the final bouquets on the coffin lid, the petals falling like pure white tears. They stood silently, gazing at Kasukabe's peaceful face one last time, their hearts filled with regret and grief.

As the ceremony was drawing to a close, I boldly stood up to speak, and the entire room fell silent, all eyes turning to me. I approached Captain Kasukabe's coffin, took a deep breath, and steadied my voice, even as I shed 'crocodile tears'.

"My comrades, you see it, don't you? It was the vile spirits that drove Captain Kasukabe to such a horrific end! They are not just dangerous beings, sowing terror and pain among countless innocent people, but they are also the cause of so many other evils!"

My voice rose, filled with righteous fury, each word like a sharp blade cutting through the hearts of those listening.

"This loss is not just our pain, but a clear warning that we have been too lenient with these demons called 'Spirits'! We must be resolute, stronger, more ruthless, to prevent tragedies like this from ever happening again! We will bring justice to Captain Kasukabe, and to all those who have been cruelly taken by these spirits!"

"We will fight together, tirelessly, until every last spirit is exterminated! We will protect humanity from the threat they pose!"

As I finished speaking, the flames of anger seemed to engulf the somber atmosphere.

"That's right! Captain Watano is right!" A voice shouted, and soon, others echoed in agreement.

"Captain Watano Genso!" One of them shouted, and immediately, the others followed. "Captain Watano Genso! Captain Watano Genso!" The chants reverberated, carrying with them anger, sorrow, and the resolve of those who had lost a comrade, a leader they admired.

As the chants of my name filled the air, a sense of indescribable satisfaction welled up within me. I stood there, silently observing the determined and trusting faces of the AST members, and in that moment, I knew I had seized their hearts and minds.

A subtle smile curled my lips, and my eyes glinted with a cold but proud look. They had all heeded my words, and now, I was no longer just one of them, but their leader, holding the reins, guiding these 'pawns' into a battle whose true purpose only I knew.

◊

After the field trip to Arubi Island, all the students joyfully entered summer break, filled with excitement and anticipation. The atmosphere in the classroom buzzed with newfound energy, as everyone eagerly discussed their upcoming plans. Laughter echoed everywhere, with stories of beach trips, picnics, and gatherings with friends being shared with delight. Everyone was looking forward to the freedom of summer, escaping the stressful hours of study and school pressure.

But for me, this summer held a completely different meaning. As my friends' laughter filled the air, I quietly observed, my mind whirling with thoughts. This summer break wasn't a time for fun or relaxation like it was for everyone else. For me, it was a precious opportunity to prepare for a "very special" plan—a plan that I had been quietly nurturing ever since I gained control of the AST's power and advanced technology.

This summer wouldn't just be a time to rest, but the final stage of preparation for a decisive battle in the future. I wouldn't let the spirits, Shido, or even Ratatoskr have any chance of survival. These entities, with their power and ambitions, had become a looming threat I could no longer ignore. I had witnessed too much chaos and loss caused by them. It was time to act.

Every night, as everyone else slept, I sat silently at my desk at the base, meticulously planning my next moves. Classified documents, research on technology, and schematics of every corner of the city—all were gathered and analyzed with precision. I knew that even a small mistake could doom the plan, and I wouldn't allow that to happen. This plan would trap all of them in the "special" preparation I had made. And when everything was ready, there would be no more spirits, no more Shido, no more Ratatoskr—everything would be wiped clean from this world. I would cleanse them all—once and for all, even if it cost me my life.

◊

The summer break finally ended, and today marked September 8th. The early morning air carried a slight chill, signaling that autumn had begun. Normally, this would be the time for me and my friends to return to the familiar school routine—intense classes, lively discussions, and moments of laughter during breaks. However, this year felt different.

Instead of starting a regular school day, a special event was announced to take place in the afternoon at Raizen High School's gym. The news quickly spread throughout the school, creating a buzz of curiosity and excitement. Students began speculating, trying to guess what the mysterious event might be. Some thought it was a welcoming ceremony for new students, while others suspected it might be a special lecture from the administration.

But I was different. I already knew what this event was, and because of that, I had no interest in joining the guessing games.

When the afternoon came, all the students gathered in the gym as instructed. The large space was simply decorated, with rows of chairs neatly arranged and a podium at the front. Bright lights illuminated every face—faces full of eagerness, waiting for something special.

As I made my way to the gathering area, I unexpectedly ran into Shido and Tohka, both heading toward the gym as well. Before me, Shido and Tohka seemed to be chatting comfortably, their bright smiles reflecting innocence and carefree joy, with no worry about what was about to happen. But as soon as our eyes met, I noticed a sudden change in their expressions. Both of them instantly became wary of my presence.

I kept my gaze steady, but there was a hint of provocation and mockery in my tone.

"Hey, Shido. Is that how you greet a friend?"

"Ever since that day, I haven't seen you or the spirits on the flight back to school."

"So, how's that girl Yuzuru? Dead yet?" I asked, my voice cold and taunting, deliberately bringing up painful memories.

Tohka immediately reacted, stepping forward as if ready to confront me. "Don't get too full of yourself—"

Shido placed a hand on Tohka's shoulder, stopping her before she could do anything more.

"That's enough, Tohka. Calm down a bit."

"She's fine, but I won't let you harm anyone else, Watano."

"Of course she is. Guess a stab through the heart is still better than a slash. And I think I need to improve my Demon King usage, too."

"Demon King?"

"Oh right, you wouldn't know that yet. Better find out for yourself first." I issued the challenge, leaving an uncomfortable silence between us.

Without saying another word, I walked past Shido and Tohka, leaving them standing there in confusion and worry. Each of my steps echoed in the quiet hallway, the rhythm of my heart matching the growing sense of power rising within me.

When I reached the door, I pushed it open and stepped inside. The space was already crowded, so I reluctantly moved to a more open area. Ai, Mii, and Mai were all standing on the podium, delivering a passionate speech for the upcoming 'Tenguu City Inter-School Festival, or simply the Tenou Festival.'

"Alright, gentlemen. Let me ask you all this: don't we still feel bitter, don't we still kneel before the defeat of last year?!"

*Bang!* Ai slammed her fist on the podium, the sound resonating through the microphone and echoing throughout the room.

"No! Never! Those fools have made a grave mistake; they've given us too much time to sharpen our claws for revenge! Our most glorious moment has arrived! Let the glory belong to Raizen once more! With one all-out attack, we shall tear their throats to shreds!"

At that moment, Ai raised her fist high, as if responding to something.

"OOOOOHHHHHHH!!!" The students packed into the gymnasium responded in unison.

Though I had no interest in this festival, I had to admit Ai's speech was genuinely impressive; it seemed to ignite the flames of youth even in someone as cold as me.

"Well, it's quite fitting for my own situation," I thought to myself after her speech.

"This month is the Tenou Festival, where the top schools in Tenguu City gather for events…"

"And this time! This year! This year, for sure, Raizen will claim the crown of kings!" Ai shouted toward the stage, and the crowd roared in agreement.

The announcements continued, but I decided to leave. Staying any longer served no purpose, and I had more important matters to attend to. This time would be better spent refining my plan rather than wasting it on useless cheers.

Not long after, I arrived at the JPGDF base, sitting in the captain's chair and reviewing some documents I had requested from the AST team members.

I took a sip of black coffee, the bitterness seeping into my tongue, keeping me alert. Suddenly, a knock at the door interrupted my thoughts. I set the documents down, my eyes not leaving the door.

"Come in."

The door slowly opened, and Corporal Mildred F. Fujimura, a skilled mechanic in the AST team, stepped in with a serious expression, as if bearing important news.

"Reporting, Captain! Regarding the number of magic cores you requested… Due to the large quantity, the preparation process will take considerable time."

I didn't respond immediately, simply eyeing Mildred, considering the situation. This was within my expectations, but even so, this delay was a hindrance I couldn't overlook.

"How long?" I asked, my tone low and firm.

"After calculations, my team estimates that the preparation process could take 4 to 5 months, depending on stockpile status and transportation speed from D.E.M.," Mildred replied, her gaze never leaving mine, clearly tense.

Four to five months. It wasn't an unbearable time frame for me, but it was enough to impact the progress of my plan. I nodded, signaling her to continue.

"Understood. Ensure there are no errors in the preparation process. I want everything ready as soon as it's completed."

"But before you go, I have one more request."

"What is it, Captain?"

"Conduct a salvage operation at the beach near Arubi Island. There should still be some magic cores left at the bottom of the sea after the <The Merciless> Spirit incident."

"Yes, Captain!" Mildred responded, quickly turning to leave.

Though I was eager to deal with D.E.M—a thorn in my side with their ruthless experiments and schemes—I knew that patience was required now. D.E.M was part of the chain of events that had plunged this world into chaos, and they deserved punishment. But I had to set aside that anger until all other tasks were fully resolved.

◊

Since the summer break began, there hadn't been a single spirit alert. Everything had been eerily peaceful, as if the world was enjoying a rare calm. Yet, strangely, I didn't feel any peace in my heart. Instead, this quietness unsettled me, as if I had never wanted or been satisfied with such a scene.

In truth, right now, I only wanted to hunt down Shido, the spirits, and Ratatoskr. The thought of them recruiting more spirits to their side made it impossible for me to stay still. Every moment that passed, they grew stronger, and the danger increased.

But I knew that patience was my greatest weapon right now, and I had to continue to endure until the perfect moment arrived, when everything was ready and my true 'performance' could begin.

At the base, after receiving orders from the higher-ups, I went to inform Origami of something important.

"Sergeant Tobiichi Origami, your house arrest is officially lifted. You're allowed to return to duty with AST and participate in the upcoming training sessions."

"Yes, Sir!"

"Alright, no need to be so formal."

"But remember, the higher-ups advised against repeating your actions; otherwise, you won't be allowed back in the team."

"We need talented and determined people like you, Origami."

"Understood. Thank you for reminding—"

But before I could say more, the base's alarm system suddenly blared, shattering the quiet atmosphere. The shrill sound of the alarm made the entire room tremble, and the electronic voice from the emergency speakers echoed:

"Spacequake detected! High danger level! All units, prepare for combat!"

Although the alarm had disrupted the fragile peace of the base, instead of feeling worried or tense, I felt a rising excitement within me. The thought of the upcoming battle and the opportunity to eliminate a spirit made it impossible to suppress the cold smile forming on my lips.

"Captain Watano here! All units, quickly prepare weapons, fully equip your armor, and assemble at the combat zone immediately!" I ordered, my tone leaving no room for hesitation.

The hurried footsteps of the team members echoed through the hallways as they quickly moved to their positions. The entire base seemed to awaken from its brief silence, preparing to face the impending spirit. I could feel the tension in the air.

"Alright, everyone, listen up! Head to the designated location! By all means, we must eliminate the spirit this time, so former Captain Kasukabe can be proud of us."

"YES, SIR!"

As the team was ready to depart, a group of about ten people suddenly emerged from a hidden corner of the hallway, blocking our path. They were wearing unfamiliar CR-units, different from the standard AST equipment.

"Hey, Captain Watano. Maybe you're being a bit hasty, aren't you?" A piercing voice called out from the front, making me immediately recognize it as Jessica Bayley, the woman from D.E.M, who had been sent to this base as a replacement for Mana.

I narrowed my eyes, staring directly at Jessica, my irritation and disdain rising within me. "I'm aware. I've read through the documents the higher-ups sent," I replied, my voice not hiding the sarcasm.

She sneered, a bland and provocative smile. "Good then, the AST has just been reinforced with ten new foreign members, and we've been given special decision-making powers in unusual situations. You know that well, don't you, Captain Watano?"

"But regardless of who you are, as members of AST, you must follow my orders."

"If we follow your orders, can we defeat the spirit?"

"Are you doubting our abilities?"

"I wouldn't dare. It's just that in recent years, despite this being the area with the most spacequakes, you haven't successfully hunted down a single spirit."

As Jessica spoke, the members behind her began to laugh as well.

"Come on, Captain Jessica. They're not that weak."

"Right, maybe our standards are just too high, making this side look bad."

I had lost all patience with the chatterboxes before me, responding angrily.

"That's enough. We're not here to chit-chat with you," I cut in, my voice sharp as a knife.

"The alarm has been blaring for a while now. If you don't intend to help, you'd better step aside and let us do our job."

"Alright, alright, we'll follow Captain Watano's orders." Jessica shrugged and stepped aside, signaling her group to clear the way.

"Okay, team, MOVE OUT!"

◊

Our destination was the square in front of Tatsunami Station, on the western side of Tenguu City. This square, usually bustling and lively with the flow of people, the hurried footsteps of passengers, the murmur of crowds, and the distant sounds of trains, was now a completely different scene.

Before us, the square, once vibrant, was now just a vast, empty, and lifeless space. Not a single soul, not a sound, only a cold, eerie silence enveloped everything. A large portion of the area had been carved out, forming a massive crater as if a spacequake had just occurred. The surrounding buildings were now reduced to rubble, crushed and deformed. Debris of concrete and steel lay scattered, creating a scene of destruction and desolation.

"So, it has arrived," I murmured, feeling a surge of anger. "One of the spirits I hate the most, <Diva >."

<Diva >—also known as Izayoi Miku. A spirit with the angel <Gabriel >, who has complete control over sound and music, capable of not only physical destruction but also weakening the spirit of those who dare to face her. The name <Diva > had left a deep impression on me, not just because of the devastation caused by a spirit, but also because of her cruel, arrogant nature and disregard for human life.

"Everyone, get ready!" I shouted through the intercom, my voice full of determination and coldness. "The enemy could appear at any moment. Be careful and don't let anything distract you!"

"YES, SIR!"

The AST team members immediately took their positions, weapons at the ready, tense but full of determination. No one in the team dared to let their guard down, as we knew that even a small mistake could lead to catastrophic consequences.

At first, the melodies were faint, like a gentle breeze whispering past my ears, but the closer I got to the square, the clearer the singing became. The mournful, alluring yet ominous tune filled the air, like a beckoning call from the shadows. I recognized it immediately—this could only be the voice of <DIVA >.

Pale moonlight seeped through the dark clouds, casting a gentle glow over the ruins of the square. That soft silver light touched everything, painting the desolate scene with a cold, almost surreal brilliance. In the moonlit ruins of the collapsed buildings, a graceful figure gradually emerged.

She stood there like a performer on a stage, her slender form bathed in the ethereal glow of the moon. Her skin reflected the moonlight like pearls, her eyes gleaming in the darkness, exuding an alluring mystery. Her long, silky hair fluttered in the wind, catching the light with every slight tilt of her head.

"Attention, team! The target, the spirit codenamed <Diva >, has appeared. Engage when ordered!"

"Understood!"

I didn't order an immediate attack, though my chest burned with a deep-seated hatred for <Diva >. Instead, I remained still, focusing all my attention on the scene before me. The reason for this patience was simple yet crucial—I was waiting for someone to arrive, someone I knew would show up at any moment, as if drawn by the spirit's presence. Yes, it could be no one other than Shido.

Just as I was lost in thought, a voice crackled over the radio, shattering the tense silence: "Captain Watano, <Diva > is on the move!"

"Details," I commanded, unable to hide the urgency in my voice.

"She's changing position."

"Good. Keep watching."

"Roger that!"

I kept my eyes on <Diva > from above, not letting her figure slip from my sight as she danced under the magnificent moonlight. Suddenly, she stopped in the middle of the square, her gleaming eyes scanning the darkness as if searching for the one who had interrupted her performance. Her singing abruptly ceased, plunging the surrounding area into an oppressive silence.

"Captain! A civilian is dangerously close to <Diva >. Should we intervene—?" a voice asked over the radio, laced with worry.

"So, he's here. Quick indeed," I whispered, a cold smile forming on my lips.

"All units, fire at <Diva > immediately. Ignore the presence of that foolish civilian."

"But, Captain—"

"I SAID OPEN FIRE!!!" I cut him off, my voice commanding and leaving no room for debate.

"Y-Yes, sir!" The members of the AST team replied in unison, with no time left for hesitation.

Instantly, the team deployed their weapons, and cold, bright streams of bullets shot toward DIVA. The assault was fierce and relentless, with no room for mercy or hesitation. Our target was clear and immutable—<Diva > must be eliminated.

As the barrage of bullets filled the air, she spun around swiftly, moving with astonishing speed, as fast as a shadow in the flashing light. And in an instant, <Diva > was behind us.

She placed a hand on Origami's shoulder with unsettling familiarity, then spoke with excitement, "Isn't it wonderful~… These are the audience I've been waiting for… so unlike that man earlier… and…"

<Diva > appeared with a bright smile, her face beaming as she looked at the female members of the AST. Her eyes sparkled with joy, her expression gentle and friendly as if this were a delightful meeting. She even exchanged a few teasing words, the smile never leaving her lips. But when her gaze accidentally met mine, everything changed in a flash.

The smile on her lips abruptly vanished, like a candle snuffed out by a cold wind. Her once joyful eyes turned dark and icy, hatred slowly seeping into her every feature.

"Why is there a monster among my beautiful audience?"

I didn't bother wasting time responding to her foolish question. Without hesitation, I raised the gun in my hand, aiming straight at her.

"All units! Fire!"

The sound of gunfire erupted once again, but this time, the shots were not rushed. Each bullet was fired with intense focus, aimed at weak points carefully analyzed beforehand. Yet, it still wasn't enough to bring her down.

Seeing an opening behind <Diva >, Origami swiftly lunged forward, swinging her laser sword for a surprise attack. But she was just as quick as before, easily dodging the deadly strike. While the team continued their efforts to assault her, Jessica and her group stood by, merely watching from the sidelines. But I no longer cared about that, for a simple reason—Shido had appeared within my sights.

"I've found you," I muttered, my sharp gaze locking onto Shido. Without a second thought, I launched myself forward, the force from my wings roaring with all their might.

The distance between us closed rapidly. I didn't stop, didn't hesitate, like a predator closing in on its prey. Shido, who had escaped my grasp so many times before, was now only a few steps away. He turned, his eyes filled with worry as he looked at me, but it was too late to flee.

"W...Watano?" Shido stammered, his voice trembling with confusion.

I raised my arm, gripping the hilt of my sword tightly. But in the moment my blade descended with deadly speed, I realized it sliced through nothing but empty air.

Shido had vanished from my sight, as if he had never been there. I halted, stunned and furious, searching for any trace of him, but to no avail.

As I stood there, bewildered by Shido's disappearance, I heard footsteps approaching. Jessica, with a smirk on her face, stopped beside me. "What's the matter, Captain Watano? Why is the captain of the Anti-Spirit Team ignoring the spirit to take care of personal matters?"

"SHUT UP. IT'S NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS."

"Oh, are you angry with me for saying that?"

"I SAID IT'S NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS. GET LOST." I shouted, my voice barely concealing my impatience. The rage boiled within me, threatening to explode if she stayed a moment longer.

"Very well, following orders, incompetent captain." She gave a mock bow before turning away, the mocking smile still clear on her lips.

"YOU…" I clenched my fists, feeling the fury surge within me. Jessica's words were like fuel to the fire, making me want to lash out and teach her a lesson. But at that moment, I stopped, struggling to control myself.

"The target has vanished! All units, retreat!"

"Roger!"

It's not over yet, I told myself. Because a much greater battle was still waiting for me, and next time, I would not only destroy the evil but also those who dared to underestimate me—those who dared to underestimate <THE MERCILESS>.