CHANGE -「Last Embryo」

Chapter 4

Kyou Shimbun Newspaper

What happened five years ago where more than 600 people died? —Written by Ai Hoshino.

The day Japan was plunged into the darkest silence, when four prominent families were brutally wiped out, still resonates in the minds of those who dare to remember. The Saito, Kurogane, Aoyama, and Takeda families, pillars of our society, were wiped out in a single night of terror. But what led to this act of ruthless violence? After a thorough investigation, the truth has come to light: it was all an act of revenge by the Muramasa Clan.

The Muramasa Clan, an organization whose influence has grown in the shadows, orchestrated these killings in retaliation for the deaths of 50 of its men, including its leaders, in a conflict with these families. This act of revenge was carried out with precision and cruelty, leaving a clear message: those who dare to challenge the Muramasa Clan will pay with their lives.

The most terrifying thing about this story is not only the violence that was unleashed, but the power that the Muramasa Clan wields over our nation. From the moment the blood was spilled, the authorities, television stations, radios, and all the media were threatened and silenced. The near-absolute control that the Muramasa Clan has over Japan became evident that night, when the truth was buried under a layer of fear and silence.

This article is a voice that rises in the midst of darkness, a truth that refuses to be silenced. The Japanese people have the right to know, to understand the magnitude of the power that lies behind the shadows of our society. The night of disaster must not be forgotten, and those responsible must be exposed for what they are: the true tyrants who have subjugated our nation.

The question that remains is, how long will Japan continue under the yoke of this clan? The truth is here, and change begins with its revelation.

Takashi Yamada, CEO of the Kyou Shimbun newspaper, watched with a mixture of anxiety and fear as Senji Muramasa read the article published by Ai Hoshino from his own seat. The room was charged with tension, every second that passed without a word from Senji caused Takashi's fear to intensify.

Senji, however, seemed unfazed. His eyes moved meticulously over every line of the article, his expression indecipherable. Finally, when he finished, he let out a long sigh and put the newspaper down on the desk. Without taking his eyes off the ceiling, he murmured:

"Seriously... what Ai wrote is a real nuisance."

Takashi felt a knot in his stomach. He knew that such an item could trigger terrible consequences, and the fact that Senji was there, in his seat, filled him with panic. But before his fear could be translated into words, Senji spoke again, this time in a softer, almost melancholy tone.

"But I won't kill her. We became friends six years ago."

Takashi breathed a sigh of relief, though the cold sweat on his forehead wouldn't go away. He knew that Senji wasn't someone to forget easily, and that Ai's post had crossed a dangerous line. However, that small statement about his friendship with Ai was the only thing keeping Takashi safe, at least for now.

Senji slowly rose from his seat, his imposing presence filling the room with a menacing energy. Takashi Yamada barely had time to react before feeling Senji's hand around his neck, lifting him up with surprising force. The air escaped him, and his hands rushed to try to loosen the grip, but it was useless.

Senji's voice was low, dangerous, each word cutting through the air with precision. "I'm going to spare your life, but only on one condition."

Takashi, struggling to breathe, nodded desperately, his pleading eyes reflecting the fear he felt.

"Tomorrow, on the front page of your newspaper," Senji continued. "You're going to publish a retraction. You're going to say that yesterday's article was a mistake, fake news based on incorrect information. You'll invent something convincing..." He paused, calculating the best way to handle the situation. "You will say that the newspaper's 'sources' were manipulated by a group seeking to discredit the Muramasa Clan and that the whole story was a hoax, designed to create panic and destabilize trust in the media."

Takashi's eyes filled with horror as he listened. He knew that what Senji was asking for was not only dangerous to the integrity of the newspaper, but could also irreparably damage its credibility. But I had no choice.

"The ... I'll do it." she managed to say with difficulty, her words choppy.

Senji loosened his grip, allowing Takashi to fall to the ground, gasping for air. She looked at him disdainfully before turning and heading for the door.

"Remember, Yamada," Senji said, pausing for a moment. "This is your only chance. If you fail to fix this problem, there won't be a second one."

Without saying more, Senji left the room, leaving Takashi trembling on the floor, aware that his newspaper's reputation and his life depended on complying with the order he had just received.

Senji entered the elevator, followed by two of his most loyal men from the Muramasa Clan: Arai and Fujimoto. As the doors closed and began to descend, the atmosphere in the small space was filled with heavy tension. Senji, still processing what had just happened in Takashi Yamada's office, remained silent, but his mind was working quickly.

"Have you found the whereabouts of the Prime Minister?" asked Senji without taking his eyes off the elevator doors, his tone was calm but charged with a clear intention.

Arai, a sturdy man with a scar across his face, exchanged a glance with Fujimoto before responding.

"No, not yet, Senji-sama," Arai replied respectfully. "At the moment, we don't have concrete information, but our contacts tell us that the Prime Minister is changing locations almost daily. He is doing everything possible to keep his whereabouts hidden."

Fujimoto, a thin man with sharp eyes, nodded as he added:

"It's a matter of time before we find him. Our sources are getting closer and closer to getting the information we need. He will not be able to go on hiding forever."

Senji nodded slightly, not showing any obvious emotion.

"I want you to speed up the search," Senji commanded, his voice firm and authoritative. "We cannot allow it to stay out of our reach any longer. When you get the information, act immediately."

The men nodded vigorously, committed to complying with the order.

The elevator stopped in the lobby, and the doors opened.

As Senji, Arai, and Fujimoto were leaving the building, a black car pulled up in front of the entrance. The lights went out and the doors opened, revealing two men from the Muramasa Clan, Takeda and Ishikawa, who were walking with a firm step.

"Senji-sama, we've brought Miss Hoshino," Takeda announced, opening the car's back door.

From inside the vehicle, Ai Hoshino's animated voice was heard:

"How long it's been!" said Ai, poking his head out with a nervous smile.

Senji stared at Ai for a moment before cracking a half-smile.

"I could kill you right now, you know?" he said in an almost playful tone, though his words had an unsettling edge.

Ai swallowed hard, a cold sweat running down his forehead.

"That is not even counted as a joke, Senji," Ai replied, trying to maintain her composure, though her voice betrayed a slight trembling.

Senji kept his gaze fixed on Ai, his eyes reflecting a mixture of irritation and resignation.

"Don't worry," he finally said, letting out a sigh. "I won't. Although I'm angry about what you posted in that article, revealing what happened five years ago."

Ai heaved a small sigh of relief, though nervousness was still present in his expression.

"But," Senji continued, his tone firm. "You will come with me."

Ai looked at him in surprise, not daring to question his decision. Senji gave her no other options, and with a gesture, motioned for Takeda and Ishikawa to escort her.

Ai climbed into the black car with the same nervous expression that had accompanied her since her capture. Meanwhile, Senji headed towards another car, escorted by Arai and Fujimoto. The vehicle was set in motion, and Ai watched from the back seat as the Tokyo cityscape faded as they approached Senji's Japanese mansion.

The journey was long, but the landscape changed from concrete and buildings to a luxurious area of gardens and paved paths. Finally, the cart stopped in front of an imposing wooden door, intricately carved with traditional symbols of the Muramasa Clan. Two huge doors slowly opened, revealing an impressive sight.

On both sides of the cinder block road, several clan men were lined up in perfect rows, their hands folded behind their backs as a sign of respect. Their gazes were serious and attentive, showing a clear reverence towards their leader's return.

When Senji got off the cart, Ai followed with a mixture of fascination and anxiety. The crowd of men straightened up and, in unison, raised their voices in a ceremonious salute.

"Welcome back, Senji-sama! We're happy he's back!"

The welcome echoed throughout the venue, an echo of loyalty and respect that filled the air. Ai watched, impressed by the ceremony and power Senji seemed to wield over her clan.

Senji nodded imperceptiblely, his posture erect and authoritative. Wasting no time, she began to walk towards the mansion, followed closely by Ai, who couldn't help but feel like an intruder in the midst of that imposing ceremony.

Inside the mansion, Senji guided Ai into a spacious and elegantly decorated room. The room was tastefully furnished, and an oversized wooden table dominated the center of the space, surrounded by cushions arranged to provide comfort. The atmosphere was calm, a mixture of opulence and serenity that contrasted with the palpable tension in the air.

Senji made his way to the table and sat down on one of the cushions, watching Ai with an expression that combined curiosity and sternness. Before the conversation could begin, a maid appeared at the entrance of the room, with a professional and discreet attitude.

"Senji-sama?" the maid asked in a soft voice. "Do you want anything?"

"Yes, please," Senji replied. "A little sake."

The maid nodded and turned to Ai.

"And you, Miss Hoshino? What would you like to drink?"

Ai, visibly nervous, looked around before answering.

"Black coffee, please."

The maid took note and left with their request, leaving Senji and Ai in the room. The wait increased the tension, and Ai swallowed hard as she sat on the cushion in front of Senji. His hands were slightly trembling and his eyes couldn't stop staring at Senji, looking for any hint of what he might be thinking.

Senji, his gaze fixed on Ai, settled into his seat with a mixture of patience and authority. The wooden table, polished and sturdy, seemed to symbolize the distance between them, although the impending conversation was about to close that gap.

Senji with a calm tone, asked:

"Ai, what's the real reason behind the publication of that article? I don't remember doing anything that could lead you to act against me."

Ai, hearing the question, tried to maintain a serene expression, but her eyes briefly flashed in the shape of a white star as she searched for the right answer.

"The truth is..." He began, with a forced smile. "I felt the article was important to inform the public about what really happened."

Senji watched Ai carefully, noticing the white gleam in his eyes. It was evident that he was lying. His gaze became sharper, and the silence was filled with tension.

Ai, noticing Senji's disbelief, lowered her head and let her gaze turn dark. His voice became more serious and sincere.

"The truth is, I'm angry with you, Senji. After that last conversation in the cemetery, I felt abandoned. You've been away for five years, and I didn't understand why. In the end, the article was a way to get your attention and express my frustration."

The change in Ai's expression did not go unnoticed by Senji. His eyes, which had once been bright and deceptive, now reflected genuine sadness. Senji nodded slowly, comprehending the true motivation behind Ai's action.

Senji nodded, taking in Ai's revelation. His expression softened slightly, though seriousness remained on his face.

"So it was that," he said calmly. "I understand why you felt the need to do what you did. But now, beyond our personal differences, you've seen the impact our situation has had. The Muramasa clan has increased its influence and power in Japan ever since."

Ai, his eyes still dark with sincerity, nodded in agreement.

"Yes, I've seen how the situation has changed." Answered. "The clan seems to have almost total control over the country."

Senji leaned back on his cushion, pondering Ai's words. Then, in a more relaxed tone, he said:

"I thank you for telling me the truth, although not in the way I would have liked. Now, the Muramasa Clan will have to smooth over their business. The public eye will surely investigate whether what you wrote is true or false."

Ai nodded, understanding the implications of what Senji had said. The conversation had taken an unexpected turn, but at least the truth had come out.

In the middle of the conversation, the door of the room opened softly, and the maid came back with the order. In his hands, he carried a tray with two items: a cup of black coffee for Ai and a small vase of sake accompanied by a sakazuki for Senji.

The maid walked over carefully and placed the cup in front of Ai, then placed the vase and sakazuki in front of Senji.

"Here's your black coffee, Miss Hoshino," the maid said with a respectful bow. "And sake for you, Senji-sama."

Senji nodded in gratitude and took the vase. With precise movements, he poured the sake into the sakazuki, a red cup with a flower in the middle, designed to allow a small amount of drinking. The golden liquid shone in the soft light of the room. Senji raised the sakazuki and brought it to his lips, drinking with a satisfied expression.

Ai, observing Senji's gesture, took his cup of black coffee and took a sip, seeking comfort in the drink as he processed the recent conversation. The atmosphere became a little more relaxed as they both enjoyed their drinks, although the weight of the situation was still present.

The maid, after delivering the drinks, made a slight bow and withdrew from the room, closing the door behind her gently.

Senji watched Ai for a moment as he took a sip of his sake. Finally, in a thoughtful tone, he asked:

"What are you going to do now? You gave CEO Takashi a horrible time because of the article you posted. It's pretty obvious that you'll be fired."

Ai, smiling slightly, nodded in understanding.

"Yes, I guess that's what happens when you get into big trouble," Ai said with a hint of irony. "Also, you went all the way to the CEO's office. I'm sure you threatened him."

Just then, Ai felt his phone vibrate in his pocket. He took it out and, when he reviewed the message, his expression turned into a mixture of surprise and amusement. He showed the phone to Senji, which clearly read the notice of his dismissal.

"It seems I wasn't wrong," Ai said, laughing lightly. "I just got officially fired."

Senji looked at the message and then at Ai, who seemed to accept the news with a surprisingly light attitude. The situation, though serious, had taken a more lighthearted turn as both acknowledged the irony of the situation.

Seeing that everything had calmly resolved, Senji leaned forward slightly, a smile beginning to form on his face.

"Now that you have more freedom," Senji said with a wry smile. "What do you think of the idea of studying at the same academy as me? I am going to enter as a student at the Seiren Private Academy."

Ai looked at him with surprise and curiosity, considering Senji's proposal.

"Really?" asked Ai. "What's the Seiren Private Academy like?"

Senji nodded excitedly.

"It is an excellent institution, with many opportunities and a good environment to study."

Ai, upon hearing the proposal, smiled at the thought of the new possibilities this change could offer.

"I will seriously consider it," Ai said. "It seems like a good opportunity to start over."

After this exchange, the conversation continued in a more relaxed tone. Ai curiously asked Senji about his stay in the juvenile prison. Senji, with a nostalgic smile, shared some anecdotes from his time there, talking about the experiences and challenges he faced.

Realizing that it was late, Senji turned to Ai with a gentle smile.

"It's too late," Senji said. "If you want, you can stay overnight tonight. I'll look for a maid who can show you a comfortable room."

Ai, upon hearing the offer, gratefully accepted. Senji left the room to look for a maid who could guide Ai to his room. Meanwhile, Ai was mentally prepared and prepared to rest and sleep for the first time at Senji's house.

Moreover, Senji was walking through the halls of the mansion, calmly moving towards the garden. Finally, he found Julie near the pond, watching the koi fish swim slowly in the moonlit water.

"Julie," Senji said, approaching with a smile. "I need to talk to you about Ai Hoshino. She is our guest tonight and will stay at the mansion."

Julie looked up from the fish and nodded understandingly. Senji, knowing that Julie didn't usually talk much, asked her:

"Would you mind if I'm with you for a while? I like to watch the moon shining in the sky, and I could use a little company."

Julie, in her characteristic monotone tone, replied with a slight shake of her head:

"Sure."

They both went to a corner of the garden where the view of the moon was clearer. Senji settled on a nearby bench and sat down, looking at the starry sky. Julie joined him, maintaining her characteristic silence, but enjoying the quiet night with Senji.

"Thank you for doing this," Senji said, breaking the silence. "Sometimes, it's nice to have a quiet moment to reflect."

Julie nodded slowly, appreciating the serenity of the moment. Together, they spent a few minutes in silence, enjoying the evening show.

Finally, Senji stood up, grateful for the company. He said goodbye to Julie and returned to the mansion, while she remained in the garden, enjoying the peace of the night.

Senji returned to the interior of the mansion with a renewed sense of calm, after sharing a few moments of tranquility with Julie. However, as he made his way through the halls towards the main wing, a familiar feeling began to run through his body.

It was a feeling Senji knew well, a keen intuition that had always been accurate at crucial moments. He felt that the balance in his world was about to change significantly, and while he couldn't pinpoint exactly what would trigger it, he knew that something big was coming.

With his mind occupied with these thoughts, Senji continued on his way to his office, where he would sit down to plan the next steps and prepare for any eventuality. His attitude changed from quiet reflection to intense concentration, aware that the apparent calm might be about to end.

Senji spoke in a low voice:

"What is happening? Why are there divine presences trying to enter this world? If its arrival is not controlled, it could bring disasters that would shake all existence."

His expression hardened, and his eyes darkened as a new worry emerged in his mind.

"Why aren't the 12 Devas, in charge of situations like this, doing their job...?" he whispered, his voice laden with distrust and frustration.