"Kein, I just got off the phone with your mum and dad. They will be here soon, okay?"

The teacher's voice flowed with a practised warmth. She offered a gentle smile to the blond child—a child of around four years of age. He sat cross-legged on the carpet, and he looked up with oblivious and bright purple eyes.

"Okay!" A cheerful smile was on his lips. "I needed more time to finish this book anyway."

With such a precious smile, the woman did not have the heart to inform the poor child that his parents had forgotten their son at the daycare. The weight of her guilt was masked with a look of pity as she sat down to accompany the child.

That child soon grew up and attended primary school; aged nine. He was a bright kid, a wonderful speaker—an expressive one. It was not surprising that he was selected to perform a speech in front of the school amongst other students. The child sat down in the front row seats, reserved for speakers. He glanced over the crowd excitedly, searching for two familiar faces.

The children near him, the other speakers, were chatting amongst one another.

"My whole family came!"

"Ugh, my mum is waving at me. Embarrassing..."

"My dad skipped work to come here."

"Well my dad came an hour early to get the best seat so he could take photos of me."

"Kein, where are your parents?

For a moment, Kein didn't register the question directed towards him.

"I think..." He did one last glance around. "They're busy."

Kein knew his parents had forgotten. Strange. He made sure to mark the calendar (with a very bold red, by the way!) and would remind his parents in every conversation.

One may ask—Kein, don't you think they simply do not want to show up? However, that didn't seem right. Every time his parents realised they'd forgotten him, their expressions would soften into guilt-laced smiles, their arms would be full of gifts and their lips would spill apologies. Their voices were kind when they spoke his name and their expressions were warm when they looked his way.

Kein wasn't sure what to think. Complicated things such as this weren't his forte. Kein found it easier to believe they were simply very forgetful people. After all, they were his parents! Of course they'd treat their child well—it wasn't their fault if they forgot.

"I'll just have to try harder next time to get them to remember," he whispered.

Many years had passed. So, did anything change? Not much! His parents were still forgetful as ever, even when he entered his first year of highschool—even when Kein was accepted into the prestigious academy that trained exorcists.

It was a lovely morning. Well, the skies were grey and the weatherman warned everyone of potential storms. However, it was still a lovely morning nonetheless! Why was that? Well, that is because today was his birthday, of course. Thirteen years of age; Kein was finally a teenager.

Kein packed his bag for school. "I should start acting more mature."

He walked up to the mirror, fixed his tie and straightened his posture. Should he have a more serious expression? The boy frowned, then pressed his lips in a thin line, and furrowed his eyebrow ever so slightly.

"Pft." He was quick to giggle. "That doesn't suit me at all."

Kein noted that his blonde hair was starting to grow longer again—just above his shoulders. A haircut was due! It was an excuse to spend time with his parents—oh, right. Parents! Kein slung his back over his shoulders and rushed down the stairs.

"Guess whose birthday it is–!"

Oh, downstairs was empty. Kein's steps slowed as he reached the bottom of the stairs. His attention was caught by a note on the table. The note read out:

'Happy birthday'

"..."

Well, they remembered his birthday this time! Granted, Kein did set reminders around the house via sticky notes. And maybe he slipped it into conversations a few too many times, but his efforts weren't in vain! However, for some reason, them remembering his birthday felt a little worse than them forgetting.

Kein shook his head. "What am I thinking? That makes no sense! If they remembered, then maybe they got me a gift! Oh—what if they're planning a surprise?"

With that optimism, Kein was energetic for the day. He stepped out of the house, the door clicking shut behind him. As always, he enthusiastically greeted the bus driver who returned his energy with a kind smile. Classmates waved at Kein and started conversations with him. He would change from seat to seat, share jokes, tell stories—anything to keep eyes on him. Kein loved it most when he was noticed.

Although, it never felt like enough.

Classes were the usual—confusing. It consisted of Kein smiling when he entered the classroom, smiling nervously when class started, and smiling with a confused look in his eyes when he left. Kein hoped his enthusiasm made up for the grades he received. When lunch rolled around, Kein usually hung out with some friends. That was still the plan; however, on a whim, he decided to be alone. He entered a classroom and paused.

"I didn't think this through."

Kein folded his arms. What should he do alone?

Maybe I should go to the library instead.

Oh, he could study! Just as Kein was about to turn around and leave, he heard the distant laughter of other students. He paused, glancing over his shoulder before approaching the window.

Everyone's having fun. That's nice! Kein knew he could join in. It wasn't like he was an outcast. However...

Was it always tiring being around other people?

He mumbled, "Maybe I'm doing something wrong...?"

But what could it be? His brain really wasn't cut out for complicated thoughts. Just as Kein decided to leave the thought alone, the door to the classroom opened.

"Oh, sorry. I didn't think someone would be here."

The new presence was a boy with orange eyes. It didn't take long for Kein to recognise him.

That's Finn!

Finn was the student who always helped everyone out. Everyone saw him as reliable and approachable. Rumour has it that Finn's special ability was super powerful as well.

"Oh, you can use this classroom! I was just here ah..." Kein glanced around. "Admiring the... wall?"

Finn laughed. "I'm sorry for interrupting that."

Phew, he bought the excuse!

"What are you doing here?" Kein asked.

"If I'm going to be honest, it's so that James doesn't—"

"Finn! It's not nice to run from your friends!"

Finn chuckled wearily as another student entered the scene. A boy with mirthful green eyes and a beauty mark under his lips. Kein recognised him as well—James. Kein always wanted to try his baking, everyone praised it.

"Wait, Finn. You may be spared."

James walked up to Kein, eyes practically sparkling. Anyone would be taken back, suspicious even. Kein? He was in innocent awe at the fact that someone could have that kind of expression towards him.

"Quick question—do you have any food allergies?"

Kein almost missed James' question. "I don't!"

"Yes! Perfect!" James beamed, his enthusiasm illuminating every word, and he grabbed Kein's arm. "Alright, don't resist and come with me."

Kein was rightfully confused.

Finn let out a soft sigh and walked beside the two. "Don't worry, nothing bad will happen. And if something bad does happen, I'll be here."

"Hey, you're acting like I'm asking him to be an accomplice of some sort of crime."

Finn simply smiled kindly at James' accusation.

The three arrived at the home ec room. James opened the door with a flourish before walking inside. Kein followed, his eyes scanning the room.

"You're allowed to use the kitchen?" Kein asked.

James hummed to himself with a smug smile on his lips. He leaned back casually against the counter, and with a casual flick of his wrist, he swept his bangs away from his eyes. "I pulled some strings."

Finn whispered to Kein; his voice carried a warm, teasing lilt, "He begged the home ec teacher. Really put on the waterworks."

James proceeded to set out a tray of macaroons of all sorts of flavours. Pistachio green, vibrant raspberry pink, rich chocolate browns—there were more, but these were the favours Kein recognised. The blond wasn't good at cooking, but even he knew that macarons were a dessert that was difficult to get right. However, these looked perfect.

"It's your birthday, right? Take as many as you want. In fact, take them all! No need to thank me."

Kein's awe at the sweet treats had now shifted into surprise. Wait, James knew his birthday?

"How did you know?"

"I saw it once when you handed in a form for that one club—uh, basketball, I think. I was helping out with the paperwork—wait." James paused. "I don't sound creepy, do I?"

Kein didn't respond, too lost in thought. Just a quick glimpse and James remembered? Not even Kein's friends wished him a happy birthday today. Whilst te blond's heart was warm at James' words, James himself was panicking, wondering if he offended Kein.

"Kein, Kein?? I promise you, I was not tryna stalk you or anything. Honest!"

Kein's reverie was interrupted by James' voice. "Oh, no! I wasn't thinking about that. I was just happy that you remembered my birthday."

James sighed in relief. Meanwhile, Finn laughed in amusement.

"James loves baking all sorts of treats, and he tends to go overboard. He'd make us eat it." Finn patted Kein's shoulder. "I was his target today. As much as I love his baking, one person can only handle so much. You saved me there."

James scoffed playfully. "You should be grateful that you're friends with an amazing baker. Anyways, Kein, right? I'd like a review if you please~"

Kein nodded. "I'm not good with words, but I'll try."

"Caleb would give me one worded response. The bar is low."

"Then, I hope my opinion helps! I can write it down if you'd like."

"So enthusiastic! Unlike my friends!"

The three taste tested James' macarons. Finn only had one before he stopped, mentioning that he didn't do well with sweet things. James packed up the remaining macarons in a box for Kein to take home. As they were finishing up, the door opened and another student entered. A boy with brown hair that was a few shades lighter than Finn's.

"Elias, you're done with your student council work?" Finn asked.

Elias—everyone knew him. The grandson of the chairman, top student; Kein wondered how many hours of studying he needed to do to achieve his perfect grades. Or maybe he was naturally smart?

"I am," Elias replied. "I didn't have the opportunity to eat lunch."

James gasped. "So you came to me?"

"... Maybe I should see if the cafeteria has any leftovers."

"Rude! Hold on, there's only fifteen minutes left, but I can make something quick."

Elias' attention was then drawn to Kein. The brunet slightly tilted his head as he studied the blond.

"Is your name Kein?"

Another person who knew his name before he introduced himself? Today was such a lucky day!

"Yes! You're Elias, right?"

Elias was always seen with a calm and serious expression, one that seemed very mature for a teenager. Thus, his friendly smile caught Kein off guard.

"Yes, it's nice to meet you," Elias said.

"He's the birthday boy," James declared. You'd think it was his special day with how proud he looked. "Say happy birthday to him!"

"Happy birthday. I don't have a gift... Do you like tea? I have a good selection. Ah, but I don't have any on me at the moment. I could always give it tomorrow, but the novelty of it being on a birthday will..." Elias mumbled a little to himself. "I'll take you to my house instead. Would you parents be okay with that?"

"Y-your house?" Kein's eyes fluttered. "I—I don't mind! My parents won't mind, I think—?"

"Woah, why's everyone gathered here?"

A lively voice chirped as another boy waltzed into the room. A boy with features that were similar to James. It was easy to recognise him, especially since he was in the same grade as Kein, even if they didn't share any classes. Caleb; he was a little infamous for skipping classes. Although, his easygoing attitude and vibrant personality made him likeable.

Caleb's bright green eyes landed on Kein, and an amused hum escaped his lips. "Oh, it's Mr. Optimistic."

Kein blinked, glanced around, then pointed to himself.

"Me?"

"Yeah, you," Caleb grinned. "I heard that when everyone had their excursion cancelled because of that vengeful apparition case, you were the only guy smiling."

"But we got to see some exorcists in action!"

Caleb laughed. "See?"

The poor blond had no idea what Caleb meant, but he was smiling nonetheless.

"Anyways, since it's your birthday, tell me what kind of cake you want," James said. "I can make it by tonight. Drop your address and I'll bring it over."

Kein blinked, surprised. Kein was a child who did everything he could so others could simply remember his name. James's offer? It threw him off, he could barely even comprehend it. At Kein's silence, Caleb spoke up.

"It's your birthday, dude. Abuse your power." Caleb placed a hand to his chest. "Like me."

Elias sighed. "We all know."

"His demands that day..." James' face grew a little pale. "I get chills."

"Caleb is a good friend," Finn said with a weary smile. "But be mindful to not adopt his personality. Whenever you feel yourself slipping away, feel free to talk to me. In fact, please do talk to me."

James clasped his hands together. "Stay pure and untainted, Kein. Please."

"Wow, you guys didn't hold back."

Kein giggled. "Caleb seems nice! I think it'll be alright."

Everyone exchanged knowing glances and nodded in agreement. Kein was yet confused again.

"Anyways, change of topic. You're gonna be an exorcist, right?" Caleb asked. "What force do you want to join?"

"A force?"

To be honest, Kein joined the academy to get his parents' attention, which worked a little, so he never contemplated what he wanted for himself.

"I'm not sure," Kein replied. "But we have plenty of time to figure it out."

"That's true, there's no need to rush," Elias said.

Everyone settled into easy conversations, and they all made sure to include Kein. Whether it'd be Elias asking him questions, Finn glancing over to him for his opinion, Caleb gesturing animatedly to Kein, or James sending a broad smile his way. The blond was oblivious to this, but he just got adopted into their friendship circle.

Kein was happy, extremely so. For years he wished for attention, and he believed that he needed to work harder so others looked at him. He didn't know that his lonely heart could be settled because someone else had finally looked at him first. This encounter was a pivotal day, a moment when his ideals began to take shape. For those who treated him with kindness, reached out their hand first, he wanted to do the same for others. Everyone deserved to be acknowledged, to be seen.



===



"It was so funny! She asked if I could sleep with her. Who would want a stranger in her bed?"

James was in the middle of baking and Kein was kept around for moral support (as much as he loved him, James did not trust the blond near any kitchen appliances). At this point in time, the two individuals were well accustomed to their SF roles. It came with popularity and attention—something Kein was not used to receiving at first, but he managed to adapt.

James took out the pastries from the oven. "Kein, I don't think that's what sleeping with you means."

"Hm? What does it mean?"

"..."

Kein was waiting with such... Expectant eyes. James couldn't. Kein was too innocent.

"Uh, I—"

The door to the kitchen opened, revealing Caleb. James thought to himself 'nice save.'

"Oh, smells good here! Anyways, you two gotta get out. The prince called for everyone."

"Prince?" Kein asked. "Do we know of a prince?"

"He means Elias."

"Oh, right!" Kein laughed. "Nicknames, I forgot for a moment."

With Caleb leading the way, the three arrived at a private meeting room. Everyone else was there besides Elias.

"Elias needed to do something last minute," Sara said. "He'll be here soon."

Kein ended up sitting between Finn and Rose. The blond turned over to the actress and said, "Good job on your last movie! I really enjoyed the final scene, even if I didn't fully understand the symbolism."

"Of course. Even the toughest critics praised that scene, and those hardasses usually refuse to acknowledge me just because I'm considered mainstream." Rose's red lips curled into a smug smile. "Ah, being loved is truly tough."

With a shrug, Rose then turned over to Sara to complain about her workday. The brunette patiently listened and gave her own comments. Rose hated being interrupted, but that attitude of hers changes when it came to Sara.

"Good job at your operation today," Finn told Kein. "I saw it on the news. Your special ability has a larger range now, right? The mist was enough to render all the apparitions harmless."

"It does! It surprised me, I didn't expect to improve out of nowhere."

Finn smiled. "I suppose you were... mistified?"

"Hm?"

Finn proceeded to spend the next five minutes explaining the pun to Kein.

Eventually, chatter amongst the SF members died down when Elias entered the room. All eyes followed him as he made his way to the centre of the long table, settling down with a quiet composure that contradicted the exhaustion etched on his face. The dark circles under his eyes were more pronounced than usual, which worried Kein.

"I'll get straight to the point," Elias said. "Today, the chairman mentioned he wanted to begin training me for his position. While refining my leadership and management skills, he also told me a few confidential facts."

"Hm, I do love secrets," Caleb said. "But should you be spilling that to us?"

"It doesn't matter." Elias took a deep breath. "The chairman is working with the technology design division to create weapons. These weapons use the abilities of dead exorcists as fuel."

A thick, uneasy tension fell over the room. It was oppressive, as if hundreds of apparitions had crowded into the space. Kein's mind was preoccupied with comprehending everything. When he just managed to evaluate the situation, Sara spoke up.

"... That's not all, is it?"

"It's not. While there are ethical issues, there's a twisted logic behind the creation of weapons. From a tactical standpoint, it makes sense to utilise the skills of those who've passed on. However..." Elias paused for a moment. "The power from weapons would be stronger if there is a great sense of preservation. Hence, the chairman would not hesitate to manipulate things from behind the scenes to ensure more powerful weapons can be made."

Sara's breath hitched. "Like, purposefully causing deaths...?"

Elias was silent, but nodded.

Rose let out a bitter laugh, her voice sharp with exasperation. "It's insane to think about, but why am I not surprised?"

"The old man always has insane ideas and ambitions," Caleb muttered, leaning back on his chair. "If he's willing to go this far now, what kind of future are we looking at?"

Kein's mind was spinning; he was struggling to keep up with the rapid flow of information. Everyone seemed to have understood the situation within a minute.

"Kein, are you alright?" Finn whispered.

"... I was just a little confused, but I think I'm getting it," the blond replied. Unlike everyone else, his voice was light and his expression wasn't tense. "Weapons from dead exorcists... He really wants to protect the city, doesn't he?"

Everyone looked at Kein in surprise. After all, the first thing he expressed was sympathy for the chairman—anyone else would be angry towards the man for doing something so inhumane. Furthermore, no one seemed to notice the faint shift in Finn's demeanour; his face softened, and the faintest hint of a smile tugged at his lips.

"Oh, I'm not saying I approve of his actions!" Kein quickly clarified. "It's terrible using dead exorcists for weapons, but I don't think he's doing it because he wants to."

Kein's expression displayed no traces of conflict. The blond was speaking his pure, innocent thoughts. It was his demeanour that eased everyone, and the room was a little easier to breathe in.

"I think so as well!" Sara exclaimed. "I don't agree with my grandfather's actions, but I don't want to villainise him."

Everyone seemed to have the same sentiment.

"So, what's your plan?" Rose asked Elias. "Expose him? Confront him? Fight him? Actually, do you think the chairman expects you to make a move?"

"He definitely does," Elias replied. "It's a test. He's testing what kind of person I am with what I choose to do with that information."

"What if we tell the public?" Kein suggested. "Or maybe not! I'm no good with plans, but I think they deserve to know what goes on behind the scenes. I'm sure if the chairman sees a lot of disagreement, he will reconsider!"

Was Kein being naive? Many would say so. However, his naive, pure, unfiltered thinking was something rare in this dreary city. It was a trait everyone in the SF cherished.

Rose hummed, glancing at her nails. "I agree. A strong reaction from the citizens would be effective. Even someone like the chairman would think twice if the entire city turns its back on him."

"The public..." James mumbled. "Rose?"

"I know, I know." She smiled. "I'll be putting my celebrity status to good use when the time comes."

While there wasn't a concrete plan, everyone shared a general understanding of what action should be taken next.

Elias spoke, "Alright, I believe we should—"

Finn interrupted him. "No."

"No...?"

"Rest. Elias, when was the last time you have slept?"

Elias furrowed his eyebrows. "We can talk about that later. For now I—"

Elias was promptly met with a chorus of demands to get some rest. Further plans would be discussed at another time. Caleb and James both volunteered to make sure Elias has his head on a pillow and gets minimal seven hours of sleep.

When the group dispersed, Finn and Kein walked alongside each other. There was a comfortable silence, and Kein's thoughts wandered. He wished he could talk the chairman out of creating the weapons. One sacrifice could lead to many; it was a heavy moral burden to bear in order to protect the city. It would take a toll on anyone's mental health.

"Are you nervous?"

The blond met Finn's question with a smile. "If we're doing the right thing, then I'm sure things will turn out alright."



===



"..."

... How...?

Kein's breaths came out ragged, almost swallowed by the chaos of the city. His blond hair fell over his eyes, shielding the disbelief and pain flickering beneath. Kein's fingers dug into the rough concrete, nails scraping against the cold, unyielding ground until they chipped and stung. Around Kein, the city cried with a cacophony of cries and shouts. The streets quivered and buildings loomed like silent witnesses.

Several months had passed since that initial meeting, that first plan to expose the chairman's weapons to the public. The SF had meticulously crafted a strategy, one that was sure to bring social ridicule at worse.

And yet...

In front of Kein lay Rose. Dead. Her warm body now cold against the unforgiving ground. Her tangled hair obscured her eyes and a pool of red was underneath her.

She... the people––her fans, on the rooftop they—

Kein gasped and a hand flew to his lips. He felt sick to his stomach at the thought of what happened, yet a part of him also could not accept his memory as the reality. However, the metallic scent of crimson was all too real. With trembling hands, Kein pushed himself to his feet. One hand held his right arm as he stumbled a little.

... This is the public's answer?

Few weeks after the SF exposed the chairman's weapons, a violent apparition attack occurred, throwing the city into chaos. The public's support for the SF dissolved when their lives were endangered. They didn't care if the weapons were unethical as long as it protected them. With apparitions evolving and more dangers being present, nobody cared about morality anymore. They wanted to survive. No matter what.

If only I was stronger, if only we had done something a little differently.

... But what? What could have been done differently?

Kein was forced to discard the thought. Apparitions were still in the area, he didn't have time to think. Even when Kein was working until his body could not move, citizens still cursed and yelled at him.

"Aren't SF members supposed to protect us? Why are you so weak?!"

"You should've just helped the chairman make the weapons! That way I could have protected myself!"

Despite the harsh comments directed towards him, Kein couldn't find it in his heart to be angry. Instead, he felt powerless.

Don't cry, don't cry.

Kein drew in a deep breath. Although the majority of the city was against him, there were still some who were counting on him. He needed to stay focused.

And I need to get out of here alive so we can have a proper burial for... Rose.

The reality of her death was still blurring the lines of fiction for Kein—he still couldn't accept it. He tried to smile for his own reassurance, but the action felt heavy.

...?

There was someone in the distance. A tall individual with pink eyes and long pink hair that went well past their back. Their movements held the grace of a woman, yet their cold eyes and authoritative gaze spoke of a man. Kein squinted, straining to decipher the blurry words on the keycard that hung from their neck.

Eve?

His eyes widened. Wait, that was Eve? The individual who was head of the technology design division? The individual who remained faceless for years?

Eve glanced over Rose's body. Their expression was indiscernible. Citizens were too much in a frenzy to take note of their presence.

"... Loud."

A voice laced with chilling detachment. Eve raised a hand, and red strings wove through the air. In an instant, these strings lashed out, wrapping around the panicking citizens with precision. The red threads sliced through flesh with a swift, merciless efficiency. Bodies fell to the ground; blood splatter before Kein's wide, horrified eyes.

"Everything's ruined." Eve's eyes were wide, pupils dilated. Their head turned unnervingly towards Kein. "Was it because of you?"

"Me...?"

While it was true that Kein was the first to suggest the idea to tell the public of the weapons, everyone contributed to the plan... He paused.

If I had never suggested that, then this wouldn't have happened.

"Your stunt worked well for the first few weeks, didn't it?" Eve's voice grew increasingly venomous with each word. They stepped closer, their tone dripping with contempt as though Kein were the very scum of the earth. "Did you enjoy watching everyone point fingers at me, ridiculing the inventions I devoted my entire life to? Their opinions might've changed now, but it's clear. No one is on my side. No one cares."

Kein didn't take a step back. He listened to Eve's words. Rather than fear, he felt guilt. He had never once thought about Eve's position.

"My ability has a deep connection to apparitions, that was enough for society to look at me in disgust. Ahhh, if only there was someone truly on my side, someone like me." Eve buried their hands into their face before looking up. Their next words were carried in a flat tone and their expression was neutral, yet their delivery held an unspoken emotion. "I'd cherish them with all my heart."

In a blink of an eye, red strings ensnared Kein and slashed his skin. Pain shot through him as he fell to the ground whilst Eve looked down with emotionless eyes.

"I spared the grandchildren," Eve mumbled. "But everyone else would be useful as weapons... I'll leave him here for a bit."

Kein's vision blurred in pain. When his vision focused again, Eve was gone and he was surrounded by corpses. Any movement evoked a cry of agony from the blond, but he managed to get on his knees.

The truth was undeniable.

Kein was going to die.

... I don't mind death, but I don't want anyone else to get hurt.

With how things were going,and from what Kein inferred from Eve's words, Caleb and Finn were in danger. But what could he do? Kein couldn't even stand up. Desperation puppeteered Kein's actions as he clasped his hands together and pressed them against his forehead. If only the events were erased from everyone's minds. If only he had never spoken about informing the public about the weapons.

Legends spoke of a man who, driven by an unyielding desire for preservation, made a wish so powerful that it gave birth to a new existence; apparitions. Kein was able to mirror that very legend. His desire was so powerful that those above had no choice but to grant it.

And so, every trace of this incident and everything connected to it was forgotten.

Including Kein's existence.

A/n: What's this? Seems like Kein has met Eve before 👁️ gee, reader didn't see that in the game! And yes, James died before he could be involved in the SF's plan to expose the chairman's weapons oops. Anyways! Lore heavy chapter, sorry for the slow yandere progression again HAHA. I promise you, there will be some interesting yandere scenes in the future!!