My Mysterious Cursed Force

Time flew by quickly, and on June 5th, I knew this was the day Kurumi would join Shido's class. She knew about Shido simply because Phantom, or rather, physics teacher Murasame Reine, had informed her.

During the homeroom period, Kurumi made a strong impression on the class with her bold introduction, declaring herself as a spirit. She walked gracefully to Shido's seat, asking him for guidance around the school. When she returned to her seat, Kurumi didn't forget to glance my way, as if she were on high alert.

I felt the tension in the air. The whole class seemed captivated by her mysterious and alluring presence. Shido, with his kind and sensitive nature, didn't suspect anything and immediately agreed to help her. From my seat, I observed Kurumi's every move, trying to find any weakness that I could exploit to eliminate this threat as soon as possible.

After class ended, Shido and Kurumi left together, and I wanted to follow and observe their every action. However, Tohka blocked me, spreading her arms wide and glaring at me, shouting,

"I won't let you touch Shido!"

I sighed, too accustomed to such reactions from her. No matter what I said, they wouldn't understand or sympathize with me. I quietly turned away, not wanting to waste words on useless explanations.

Today's classes finally ended, stretching until dusk. After leaving the classroom, I intended to run home quickly but suddenly saw Kurumi and Shido entering a quiet park. Curious, I silently hid behind a distant tree, using a drone to carefully monitor them. They seemed to be having a normal conversation, but Kurumi's sharp gaze remained unchanged.

"Why do you care about me so much?" Shido asked, his tone optimistic but still full of concern.

Kurumi smiled, but that smile didn't bring any sense of safety.

"Shido-san, you are truly special. You have a power that I need, and I can't let it fall into someone else's hands."

Shido frowned, his expression becoming serious.

"What power? I don't understand what you're talking about."

Before Shido could finish his sentence, Kurumi placed her index finger on Shido's lips, a gesture both intimate and meant to signal the end of their conversation for today.

"I really do want to keep talking with you, but it would be better if we were alone."

"What do you mean?" Shido asked, surprised.

Kurumi didn't answer, only smiling enigmatically. From the shadows, she pulled out a flintlock pistol and quickly destroyed my surveillance drone. The bullet pierced through the air, obliterating the device in an instant.

I was startled, realizing Kurumi had known I was watching all along. She had deliberately interrupted the conversation to send a clear message: "I know you're here, AST-san."

With no other choice, I immediately left my hiding spot, feeling uneasy. Kurumi was a dangerous spirit, and her discovering my presence was inevitable. I knew I had to act more cautiously if I wanted to defeat her.

A few minutes after I left, an urgent assembly notice was sent out. The rendezvous point was a narrow alley in the heart of Tenguu City. Without hesitation, I rushed to the designated location. The streets had darkened, and the dim streetlights illuminated my steps, creating a tense atmosphere. As I approached the alley, I could feel the unease in the air.

At that moment, a terrifying scene unfolded before my eyes. Kurumi stood in the middle of the alley, having just dealt with three unfortunate victims. Her expression was one of utter satisfaction, as if she had just been treated to a sumptuous meal. The victims' blood pooled, staining the ground red, creating a horrifying spectacle. Now, not just me, but everyone in AST was outraged by this sight.

"You must have had a 'delicious meal,' huh?" Mana responded calmly to the gruesome scene, her eyes reflecting anger but maintaining her usual composure.

"Ara ara, it's you again, Mana-san. Long time no see," Kurumi smirked, replying to Mana with a challenging demeanor, as if our presence was merely a minor annoyance in her life.

A surge of fury rose within me. Kurumi, with her insane expression and blazing red eyes, showed no signs of remorse. She looked straight at us, her lips curled into a mocking smile.

Mana stepped forward, her hand gripping her sword tightly. "Kurumi, today I won't let you escape."

Kurumi merely shrugged, her face still calm and satisfied. "You can try, Mana-san. But you know, I don't go down easi—"

"Enough talking, Nightmare."

Before Kurumi could finish, Mana deployed her Territory, enveloping the area around Kurumi. This energy field radiated a brilliant green light, quickly forming an impenetrable barrier. Without hesitation, Mana fired her laser cannon at Kurumi, her actions decisive and precise.

Blocked by the Territory, Kurumi couldn't evade the shot. The blinding light of the laser pierced through her body. Kurumi collapsed in the alley, blood pouring from her chest, staining the ground red. The battle could only be described as "one-sided."

Mana approached, her face devoid of any emotion. "This is the price for your crimes, Kurumi," she said, her tone cold and resolute.

As I saw Mana preparing to use her <No pain> blade to finish off the still-breathing Kurumi, I descended to stop her. It wasn't out of mercy, but because I wanted to end the enemy's life myself. This would be the first time I stained my blade with blood, and even better, it would be the blood of the worst spirit, Nightmare. Even though this was just a clone of Kurumi, it was enough to give me the courage to act against other spirits and Shido, those whom I once considered my ideals.

I approached Kurumi, my sword trembling in my hand but my eyes resolute. "Kurumi Tokisaki," I said, my voice cold and determined. "You have caused too much suffering, and now you will pay the price."

Kurumi looked at me, her dark eyes still holding a glimmer of light. "What an interesting end," she sneered, blood trickling from the corner of her mouth. "But are you sure you have the guts to kill me, you humanoid monster?"

"You have no right to call me that."

I took a deep breath, trying to control myself and not let my emotions take over. "This is for all the people you have hurt," I said, my voice firmer than I expected.

I raised my sword, stabbing it straight into Kurumi's heart. The thrill and tension within me exploded. This was the moment I crossed the line between right and wrong, between ideals and reality.

Kurumi groaned, then went silent, her eyes becoming lifeless. I withdrew my sword, blood still dripping from the blade. Standing there, I felt a strange mix of dark satisfaction, determination, and resolve.

Mana stood next to me, her eyes sparkling with surprise and respect. "You did it," she said softly. "You've overcome your limits."

I looked down at Kurumi's body, feeling the change within me. "This is just the beginning," I said, my voice filled with determination. "I will continue to fight, to eliminate all spirits and other threats. So no one will have to live in fear anymore."

As Kurumi's blood seeped into the ground, I felt a significant change within me. I was no longer the same person. I had decided to continue on this path, no matter how difficult and dangerous it might be. This was the path I had chosen, and I would never turn back.

The next morning, I went to school with a heavy heart. Although I was ready to face the guilt, it still created a conflict within me. As we prepared to start the class with Kurumi's absence, suddenly, the door swung open. Kurumi rushed into the class for roll call, surprising everyone. Of course, she was still alive, as if last night's battle had never happened. Her eyes scanned the room, finally resting on me. Her crimson eyes were filled with mystery and defiance.

"Sorry for being late," Kurumi said, her voice as calm as usual. "I had some personal matters to attend to."

The class exchanged glances, then returned to their previous state. For me, this wasn't shocking, but for Origami sitting behind me, her mind may be filled with questions: "How could she survive last night's battle? Did she recover quickly, or was it another clone?"

After class, Origami decided to confront Kurumi to clarify everything. Although I tried to dissuade her, saying it was too dangerous, she stubbornly insisted on going. Left with no choice, I let her meet Kurumi.

Returning to the classroom, I realized that Shido had disappeared. I could guess that he had gone to the physics storage room to review the footage of last night's battle. Shido always tried to understand everything and protect everyone, but now I would show all of them that their cruel actions would be justly punished.

According to the events in the series, tomorrow Shido would have dates with three people: Origami, Tohka, and Kurumi. Although I wanted to ruin his dates, I thought it was unnecessary and would only make Ratatoskr more wary of me, so I decided to use my day off tomorrow to continue training with Mana.

◊

So far, everything was going according to its original course, but my "unwelcome" presence had slightly altered the timeline. However, these changes seemed insignificant. My presence was a small variable, not enough to derail the preordained events.

After the brief break, we returned to school. It was nice that every day was peaceful like this, without intense battles or lurking dangers. The lessons passed smoothly, giving me a rare sense of peace in this tumultuous life.

However, this peace was only temporary. Soon, Kurumi would unleash 'City of Devouring Time' on the entire school, forcing Shido into a difficult situation. It was a dirty trick to use innocent students as hostages. I felt a cold shiver down my spine thinking about her ruthless plan. I knew that if I didn't act quickly, things would become extremely dire.

When lunch break came, I calmly observed everything around me. Kurumi, with her gentle yet dangerous appearance, walked out of the classroom, seemingly heading to the rooftop. Sensing something unusual in her actions, I decided to follow her.

Kurumi moved gracefully and confidently, each step exuding a cold and dangerous aura. I kept a safe distance to avoid detection but close enough to not lose sight of her.

Finding a secluded spot, I quickly activated my emergency Cr-unit armor. With the appearance of the armor, I felt stronger and ready to face any situation. Immediately, I sent an urgent report to everyone in AST about Kurumi's next moves.

"I'm following Kurumi; she's threatening the lives of the students here. Need backup," I said through the communicator, my voice urgent.

"Report acknowledged. The rescue team will arrive shortly. Ensure to maintain communication through the radio."

"Roger!"

On the rooftop, Kurumi stopped and looked around, seemingly waiting for someone or having a plan in mind. I hid behind a wall, carefully observing her every move.

Not long after, a gentle breeze blew by, bringing a sense of unease. Kurumi turned around, her sharp eyes looking directly at me. My heart raced, realizing I had been discovered.

"Come out, there's no need to hide anymore," Kurumi said, her voice gentle but full of authority.

I stepped out from my hiding place, facing her. "Kurumi, what are you doing here?" I asked, trying to keep my tone calm.

Kurumi smiled slightly, her eyes sparkling strangely. "Just enjoying some fresh air. Why? Are you worried about something?"

I didn't answer, just stood silently and watched her. Kurumi continued, her tone mocking. "It seems your 'dark aura' is just for scaring little kids, isn't it?"

"What do you mean?"

"Don't play dumb! You must have guessed what I will do next, right, Watano?"

"Of course I DID!"

Not letting her reply, I swiftly dashed forward, activating my weapon. A battle could break out at any moment, and I knew I had to be ready. But before I could act, Kurumi disappeared into her shadow, then reappeared behind me, looking completely unruffled.

"How pathetic. You made me overestimate you," she sneered.

"Tch, I knew you were formidable, Kurumi."

"Oh, how honored I am, monster-sama. Now it's my turn to respond."

"ZAFKIELLLL!" Kurumi shouted the name of her angel, simultaneously activating 'City of Devouring Time' to encompass the entire school. 

A feeling of oppression gradually spread throughout the space, making everything seem incredibly heavy and suffocating at this moment. The light dimmed, the air seemed to be sucked away, creating an atmosphere of tension and danger. Despite having the Cr-unit and Territory for protection—solid and reliable shields—they were not enough to withstand the terrifying pressure of the spirit's power.

Small glimmers of light sparkled around the Territory, indicating the relentless effort of magic to maintain the barrier, but I knew it was only a matter of time before this shield would be broken. My gaze swept over the surroundings, everything seemed to slow down, each movement became heavier and more difficult than ever. This tension not only affected the body but also weighed on the spirit, making me feel as if I was facing an invisible but irresistible force.

"Still have the strength to struggle, huh? Quite resilient," Kurumi said as she approached me. Her voice was taunting, full of mockery and challenge.

She grabbed my hair, pulling hard, leaving me unable to resist. In front of me, Kurumi's beautiful face came into sharp focus, her red eyes burning like two fiery pits, filled with ruthlessness and coldness. She sneered, then pointed a gun at my forehead.

"Goodbye, you monster," she said, her voice icy and full of sarcasm. I felt the cold steel of the gun pressed against my skin, fear and helplessness flooding my heart.

But I couldn't let fear take over. I had to find a way to escape this situation, to turn the tables. Looking straight into Kurumi's eyes, I remained calm and determined. From my side, I pulled out a flash grenade and threw it straight at Kurumi's face. The explosion was accompanied by a blinding light, creating chaos. In that moment, I focused all my remaining strength. The shimmering light around the Territory grew even brighter, magic surged powerfully, pushing her away. Kurumi staggered back, surprise evident on her face. I didn't miss the opportunity, quickly standing up to keep my distance and prepare for a second counterattack, buying time for the rescue team to arrive.

"You sure have a lot of tricks, don't you?" Kurumi sneered, but her eyes had grown angrier.

Without wasting words, I activated the Territory once more, feeling the compressed power within me being released. Pushing my speed to its limit, I lunged, aiming my sword at Kurumi and successfully piercing her. However, I didn't lower my guard, knowing she was a highly cunning spirit. Kurumi's body dissolved into shadow fragments, revealing it was another clone.

Suddenly, Kurumi charged from the darkness at a terrifying speed, her figure like a black mist streaking through the air. Sensing her killing intent, I focused intensely, using the skills and tactics I had practiced for so long to fight back. Kurumi's attacks continuously targeted my vital points, each strike carrying strength and ruthlessness.

"Deploy Territory."

"Futile."

Kurumi slashed through the areas I used the Territory to keep her at bay, showing the true power of a spirit. I constantly fought while moving, trying to maintain distance and find weaknesses, buying as much time as possible. Whenever I had the chance, I launched quick and precise counterattacks, but Kurumi easily dodged most of them. The battle dragged on, neither side willing to give in.

Amid the waves of attack and defense, I felt fatigue starting to overtake my body. But I couldn't give up, couldn't let Kurumi win. Suddenly, from afar, I heard the sound of a door opening—Shido had arrived. Kurumi's attention now shifted to him.

"Hello, did you keep me waiting too long, Shido-san?" Kurumi said, her tone light but full of menace.

Shido stepped in, his eyes filled with worry. "Kurumi, what is going on?"

"Isn't it wonderful? City of Devouring Time, a barrier that drains the lifespan of those within its shadow," Kurumi explained with a cold smile.

"Lifespan?"

"Yes, my angel possesses a terrifying power but consumes my time," Kurumi explained, her smile icy.

"That's why I occasionally need to replenish it from external sources."

"What?!"

"Everyone here is both my adorable and pitiful prey."

"But Shido-san is an excepti—"

"DO NOT IGNORE ME, YOU MONSTER!" I yelled angrily, charging once again, interrupting their conversation. Anger and determination filled my voice.

"Watano?" Shido was confused by my presence, his eyes full of surprise.

"What a nuisance," Kurumi sighed, irritation clear on her face.

"Zafkiel, Zayin." Kurumi softly whispered, summoning her angel. A giant clock appeared behind her, its hands moving swiftly. I knew that bullet would temporarily stop the time of the designated target, so I tried to dodge, but Kurumi didn't give me a chance.

"Aleph." Instantly, she used the first bullet, teleporting close to me. She then delivered a powerful kick, pushing me towards the seventh bullet. My body became stiff, though my mind remained clear, my body refused to obey.

A sardonic smile appeared on Kurumi's face, the cruelty in her eyes clearer than ever. She slowly approached Shido, and the whole space seemed to hold its breath in that moment.

"As you can see, Shido-san," Kurumi spoke, her voice full of irony and challenge, "my Angel is quite formidable, isn't it? The power of Zafkiel can destroy anyone and drain their time. But to use it better, to sustain this power, I need you."

"What do you want from me, Kurumi?" Shido asked, his tone anxious but trying to stay calm.

"It's very simple," Kurumi replied, her smile widening. "I want your time, your power. You will become the greatest source for me, you will merge with me, Shido-san." Her laughter shattered the tranquil atmosphere.

"But first, let's deal with this one, shall we?" Kurumi's voice turned cold, her eyes filled with malice. She pointed her gun at me, now completely defeated by her overwhelming power. Helplessness and defeat filled my mind; I couldn't accept this outcome. I didn't want to lose like this, and the more I thought about it, the angrier I became, glaring at Kurumi.

"I WILL NEVER LOSE TO YOU!" I shouted, my voice filled with rage. The anger flared up like an uncontrollable fire, spreading through my body, turning everything red with fury.

Kurumi paused, the smugness in her eyes turning to surprise. "Finally decided to play your trump card, huh, you monster."

"SHUT UP!"

I could no longer hear her taunts. All I felt was uncontrollable rage. At the same time, a new, strong, and wild sensation began to flood me, responding to the burning fury. Slowly, I moved forward despite the effects of the Seventh Bullet, Zayin.

"How is this possible? You're under the effect of the Seventh Bullet," Kurumi muttered in astonishment.

But I didn't stop. The rage had completely taken over me, transforming me into a wild and brutal beast. Each heavy step carried the storm of my fury as I advanced toward Kurumi, eyes red and filled with murderous intent.

"Tch, going berserk like a wild beast."

"YOU WILL PAY FOR WHAT YOU'VE DONE!"

I screamed, my voice filled with madness and bloodlust. I charged at an incredible speed, leaving no room for her to react. My first punch landed with the power of all my fury, striking her stomach and causing Kurumi to cry out in pain.

"I WILL TEAR YOU APART!" I roared, my eyes glowing red, my hand gripping Kurumi's neck tightly. The frenzy within me knew no bounds; I threw her to the ground with immense force, creating a resounding crash.

"Stop it, Watano." Shido rushed out and stood in front of Kurumi.

"Shido-san...?"

"You're always like this, Shido, always reaching out to save the spirits, huh?"

"THEN DIE WITH THEM!"

Just as my fist was about to hit Shido, Tohka blocked the blow with Sandalphon.

"You monster, don't you dare touch Shido."

"Toh...ka?"

"Report the situation, Private Watano! Can you hear me? The rescue team will arrive in 15 minutes. Hey..." Captain Kasukabe spoke to me through the radio.

But all those sounds became faint in the face of the boiling rage inside me. Tohka stood in front of me, her eyes resolute but unable to hide her worry.

"WHY CAN'T YOU SEE THAT EVERYTHING IS WRONG?!"

I lunged, my fist aiming for Tohka, the sound of metal clashing with my frenzied scream creating a chaotic and brutal scene. Sandalphon shattered, and just as I was about to deliver the final blow, drowsiness overwhelmed me. Whether from exhaustion or something else, I felt my body lighten, unable to keep my eyes open. The numbness spread, and my body slowly collapsed. In that moment, before completely sinking into darkness, I heard Shido's voice, but it became distant, fading away...