With this idea boiling in my mind, a clearer strategy emerged: the servant, who acts as Ui's guardian, wouldn't accept just anyone as her companion.
My plan was simple. Walk alongside the servant through the city, making him aware that I was not the right person for Ui.
I anticipated the moment to rid myself of that unwanted nuisance. As we walked, we reached a bustling place filled with street vendors offering their tempting culinary products.
As we passed by, people moved away from our path, avoiding direct eye contact with me. Nevertheless, hushed whispers echoed among the crowd, revealing curiosity and speculation about our presence.
"Why did they move away when they saw you?"
"They backed off when they saw me because my reputation is that of a dangerous person, someone people prefer to keep their distance from."
"Ah, now I understand."
Bingo, I believe the servant was beginning to realize that I was not exactly the most suitable person to be with Ui.
The scene we had just experienced, as we distanced ourselves from people on the busy street, made it clear that my presence did not go unnoticed, and speculations about me were running wild among the passersby.
Furthermore, the servant witnessed that moment when I almost killed that ant. This episode, insignificant as it may have seemed, could have left a lasting impression of my nature, suggesting that I was not someone Ui should get involved with.
Thus, the clues were accumulating, and the servant might be becoming an increasingly effective obstacle in keeping us apart.
"Izumi!" Max called, his voice echoing through the area.
"What do you want?" I replied, with a tone of disinterest.
"Good afternoon, Mr. Mito," Max greeted, maintaining his composure.
"Yes, good afternoon," I returned the greeting, keeping my eyes on Max, who had stealthily appeared before us.
"Izumi, I heard you almost took someone's life."
"It's incredible how information spreads quickly, even among those as insignificant as ants," I responded, with an air of indifference.
"I was surprised that the person is still alive."
"Well, I had a better idea."
I continued to walk, getting closer and closer, while Max remained still, watching me from a distance. When I reached my room, I noticed that the door was completely shattered.
"Who did this?"
Mystery hung in the air because I had no clue about the identity of the person who had invaded my space, but their presence, whoever they were, ignited a volcano of anger within me. In an instant, I entered the house, my muscles tense, ready to confront the intruder.
However, my search revealed an empty scene, with no sign of the person responsible for the intrusion.
Silence reigned, and the air was devoid of any strange odor. Nevertheless, an unwavering conviction consumed me; the only scent lingering in that room was a fusion of two: my own and the persistent headache that plagued me.
Despite the uncertainty about the intruder's identity, the act of invading my home, a place that held precious memories of my mother, had ignited my anger to the point where it no longer mattered who that person was. The damage was done, and I was not willing to accept apologies or offer forgiveness.
I decided to return to the door, and then, familiar scents began to penetrate my consciousness. The unmistakable smell of Ui, Max's characteristic aroma, the peculiar scent of the fallen breasts, and the subtle presence of the servant hidden nearby became evident.
Their intentions remained a mystery, but it was clear that any plan they were hatching would not succeed against my unwavering determination. If they sought death, then death would be the only answer they would find.
I walked calmly to the door, ready to face any challenge that came my way.
"Congratulations, Izumi! For defeating the first Fearless!"
"What?!"
I was caught completely off guard, even though I was mentally prepared for any situation. The idea that she would take such action simply hadn't crossed my mind.
At this moment, I have no way to assess the expression on my face, but this feeling of unexpected astonishment transported me back to the memory of my fifth birthday. Interestingly, that day remained the happiest of my life to this day.
"Now, celebrate the moment by blowing out the cake candles, Izumi."
"Yes, Izumi, you deserve this recognition."
"Why did I have to be present for this?"
"Idalme!"
"Sorry."
Ui, I was ready to act with determination, but now I find myself lost, unsure of how to proceed. What the hell is happening with this woman? She always managed to mess up my thoughts and make me question my own intentions. I just didn't understand you.
I am considered an aberration in the eyes of everyone, but that radiant smile you displayed at this moment was deeply unsettling me. Please, stop! This smile affected me in an uncomfortable and disturbing way.
"Blow, Izumi."
I don't know how to respond to this; I couldn't return kindness. This skill completely eluded me.
The anguish became unbearable, and I ended up turning my back, saying:
"Go away and leave me alone."
"I told you this approach didn't match your personality."
"Idalme, no more comments."
"Sorry."
"Understood," the servant said.
As usual, Ui ignored my protest and simply invaded my room once again, without even asking for permission.
"Come in!"
"They won't enter," I said, revealing my murderous intent.
"Okay, Izumi, let the couple enjoy their moment together. Let's go."
"Yes."
They finally left. I looked at Ui, who was visibly embarrassed, glancing at me repeatedly. Confusion began to take over me. I didn't understand what was happening here.
Wait a moment, I asked everyone not to enter, but she could enter at will.
Damn, I really messed up. Now she might think I'm interested in her. I needed to clear up this misunderstanding as soon as possible.
"And you, you can leave now."
"No, I'm going to sleep here."
"You know you can't."
"I won't leave."
"Yes. When I come back, I hope not to see you here."
"Aren't you going to eat the cake?"
"I already said I don't need to eat."
"But just one piece won't hurt you."
"Leave me alone. Don't you get that?"
"I don't get it! I always try to please you, but you always try to push me away. I don't understand you."
"You don't need to understand. Just stay away from me."
"That night meant nothing to you."
"Nothing."
Ui turned her back and started fiddling with her face, clearly indicating that my words had hurt her. It was evident that my actions had caused discomfort, suggesting that perhaps, finally, some relief might be on the horizon.
"Izumi, I'll never give up on you!" With a smile on her face, Ui proclaimed, fixing her gaze on me.
It seemed like this chapter could be the end of the story, but it was clear that this woman was deeply obsessed with me.
I understood that feeling well, after all, I carried an obsession to exterminate all demons myself. I knew she wouldn't give up on this obsession overnight, but it didn't worry me. Eventually, she would give up chasing a monster like me.