If I said the sky is falling, people would call it baseless anxiety (Kiyu).

  If I said I kept a "Terrible Thing" inside me, people would think it a lie. Or perhaps they would laugh it off as a transient worry of adolescence.

  The worst thing of all is when you believe it yourself. That will kill you.

  This is a story no one knows, a story almost no one would seriously believe. A story I couldn't possibly confess to anyone. But it was certainly there, existing clearly within this chest.

  It was often "dropping" something. As if playing a prank. Or perhaps with some clear intent.

  Was it an uncontrollable monster? Or a manifestation of my hidden, ugly true heart? I didn't know at the time. Since I became aware of the world, or perhaps even before that. It had always lived there.

  I am surely a monster. Perhaps fundamentally, a hopeless existence. Continuing to confront the "Terrible Thing" unknown to others. That was my fate.

  But only that person. Saw the true me. Saw the "Terrible Thing" clearly.

  Brazenly, coming suddenly when it was almost too late. Barging into my painful places with muddy shoes.

  "Fight," that person said.

  —Ah. How...

  And yet. The sky is stupidly clear.

  No matter how much I feel like dying, no matter how much I hate everything. It's the same as them. Not sympathizing with me at all. A muddy cloudy sky suits the filthy, ugly me well.

  The night sky of the city where no stars can be seen feels comfortable. A blue sky where everything is transparent and no deception works. A beautiful night sky shining with scattered stars of the sea.

  I hate them.

  While letting non-essential conversations (Girl Talk) pass with a dry smile, I was walking along the faded route to school (scenery) as usual.

  Grand Magic Training School. Abbreviated as Training School.

  Minors from 14 to 19 years old are gathered in one place to study and taste something called youth. It is a secondary educational institution connecting to the Grand Magic School attended by those over 20.

  Good grief, how long will they cling to the past?

  Grand Magic is not a funny joke. In the modern era where the resource called Magic Stone has completely depleted from the world, the name Grand Magic has no meaning other than historical origin and symbol.

  By the Secret Art of Non-Magic (Arazuma), abbreviated as Arama, a new world order has barely been reconstructed over the last hundred years.

  However, there is no shadow of former glory, and the world is gradually, gradually ending. According to a certain calculation, in a few hundred years, people will have no choice but to live on primitive earth or perish.

  Tragic wars occurred repeatedly over something finite. Currently, there is a truce. Though we don't know when it will start again.

  Ridiculous. It's already a war preparation school. There are no miracles or magic anywhere anymore.

  Therefore, just "falling" becomes a serious incident leading to instant death or serious injury in modern times.

  A splash of red blood hit my cheek slimily.

  Again. Someone "falls" today too.

  I stared emotionlessly and expressionlessly at something that had become a silent lump of meat. I can tell by the uniform. A student of ours.

  Despair is rampant in society. Death is already a neighbor to be loved by everyone. The school won't stop its activities for "something like this."

  Offering a template, heartless word of condolence, the daily life (crazy party) continues without delay. Next to me, a girl (monster) is sneering.

  "Again~? I wish they'd do it somewhere else because it gets dirty."

  "Yeah."

  I go along with it appropriately. Like a broken doll.

  A major event worth betting one's life on for someone is just an annoying triviality for someone else. Almost no one grieves. Except for family and close friends. No, sometimes not even anyone.

  Something in the shape of a girl said.

  "Wow, no way. You have blood on you. Go to the bathroom as soon as we arrive."

  "Yeah. I'll do that."

  Parting at the entrance soon after, I headed straight for the restroom.

  I didn't use the sink immediately. Entering a stall on the side and locking it with slightly trembling hands, a weak sigh leaked out.

  "Haa..."

  I was terribly tired from the morning. I wanted to stay still without doing anything like this.

  Then. What is the tear (thing) running down my cheek, washing away the lamentation of someone's blood I don't even know well?

  Am I still human? Or have I already turned into a monster long ago? Or. Is even having such worries a luxurious arrogance? Am I a hopeless existence since birth?

  Closing my eyes, I place my hand on my chest and ask. Only the certain heartbeat lets me know, for now, that I am biologically human.

  Waiting for the unpleasant sweat to subside even a little. For my mood to calm down even somewhat.

  This is like a ritual for deception. Just a comfort. In reality, it's useless. I know. For a frail girl alone, the circumstances she carries are too big.

  However, I cannot tell anyone. People would think it a lie. Or laugh it off as a trivial delusion of grandeur (disease) of my age.

  The few who believed all died. Even my mother. This thing killed her easily. Only the shitty father who didn't believe a thing and laughed at me like a fool is living nonchalantly.

  The "Terrible Thing" was floating a creepy grin, smirking—I felt.

  In reality, I can't read expressions or anything. It's unclear if it's even a living creature in the first place. But I could sense its subtleties. It's an inseparable bond from long ago.

  Wiping my eyes with my sleeve, I muttered so no one could hear. A voice so cold it surprised even me came out.

  "You. Did you do it again?"

  The "Terrible Thing" swayed waveringly with an ambiguous attitude, neither denying nor affirming. As if just watching my suffering and finding it amusing.

  In such cases, it's usually guilty. Surely it "dropped" something again. The worst daily routine must have been achieved.

  Are you satisfied with that?

  Listen, be satisfied for today. Telling myself in my heart, I left the stall. Not to show traces of blood or tears. Washing my face thoroughly, I headed to the classroom.

  Compared to others (people), if depicted in action, that's the only difference. No one notices. I am also one small cog in society. The war preparation (daily life) continues without delay.

  Taking advantage of the trendy apocalyptic atmosphere, this thing causes incidents. Never to stand out. Never to be known by anyone.

  The invisible monster continued to "drop" something every day without fail. If lucky, the target is just an object. Sometimes it's a small animal. Mostly, it was becoming people. On the train platform. On a neighborhood street. Somewhere I went.

  Always, within my observation range. Something "fell" every day.

  It never hurts me. No matter what fatal power it falls with from however high, it never hits me. Mostly, I witness the scene where it is done all too easily, or happen to be at close range where blood splashes. Guts spilled, boring corpses shown to me. That's all.

  For me to live a day means piling up someone's "fallen" corpse and living on top of it.

  When was it? Unable to bear it, I threw myself once. It's fine if only I "fall." Was it a truly admirable and brave attitude?

  But of all things, this thing. The "Terrible Thing." Never tries to "drop" only me, the main body. An invisible force became a cushion, and I was ruthlessly protected. It was the same no matter how many times I tried.

  The resistance of a powerless and dull girl continued. I tried jumping out in front of a Non-Magic Vehicle (Arazuma's Carriage). The steering wheel was turned sharply, and the opponent "fell" into a ditch and died.

  Since then, I haven't tried the same method because I was scared. Even if I press a knife to my neck. I cannot pull the final trigger. I tried various other things. But eventually, I gave up on dying myself.

  Numerous problematic behaviors subsided. I pasted on the outward appearance as desired by society and became a truly boring, ordinary honor student.

  Behind that, someone "falls" and dies again. Is it my fault? Is society killing them? What a wonderful competition. Ahaha.

  Only when witnessing death, I became terribly indifferent and emotionless. Doing so was the ideal response. I thought it would be better if I felt nothing like this. Then I could be at ease.

  But I was still shedding tears unknown to others. Glaring at the "Terrible Thing," despairing that I could never match it.

  What good does it do? Even if I lament just in my heart. What comfort does it offer to the fleetingly scattered victims? Moreover. I cannot show myself crying to people. Because that person would be thought weak (strange). Which one is strange?

  Let me tell you one masterpiece story.

  I was becoming an existence defined as an honor student in society, but I'm not exceptionally smart by any means. On the day of the entrance exam, I unluckily had a cold. I, who was taking the exam for the most difficult school, was about to "fail (fall)."

  Still, it was fine. Because I could make an excuse that it couldn't be helped. Ordinary was fine. Probably ordinary was better.

  But the "Terrible Thing" never "drops" only me.

  About fifty people were absent due to mysterious poor health. Only in my room, the exam hall was empty. It turned out later, but it was a worse story. Everyone "fell." Not pass or fail. Physically.

  I guess it made the news. Strange coincidence. Some kind of curse. It was dismissed as such in the world.

  Me. It's like I killed them. The cruel and inconvenient truth is carved only in me.

  The hateful guy in my chest told me indirectly. For my promised smooth and despairing life, they became sacrifices. Grand Magic Training First School is an institution to raise elites (those who make war).

  The "Terrible Thing" was just sneering.

  Even for someone like me, there was just one. A girl I could call a best friend. No, maybe a girl I wanted to call so is correct. Because I remain unsure how much she thought of me in the end.

  Besides, I never told her the secret. That would kill you. It started because our seats happened to be next to each other.

  Initially, I played a model girl and repeated non-essential conversations (Girl Talk) with her as a puppet of society. She was dignified and had a strong core. She was a girl who firmly possessed herself.

  "I think it's—"

  That was her habit. Even in non-essential conversations (Girl Talk), unexpectedly piercing words were sometimes mixed. One day, there was a moral lecture. Sacrificing the individual for the sake of the whole country.

  I think it was a truly mundane, trivial story. Asked for her impression, she said clearly.

  "I don't think that kind of thing is good."

  "...."

  The surroundings buzzed. Grand Magic Training First School is an institution to raise elites (those who make war). Calmness, ruthlessness, and strength are virtues. Compassion, kindness, and weakness are considered strange things, things to be spat upon.

  It was a truly crazy (correct) world. And yet she didn't stop doing correct (crazy) things. So inevitably. She, who stood out too badly, encountered spectacular bullying.

  Everyone carries great stress, everyone harbors deep despair, covering it with feigned strength and barely living. Because even aggression was a virtue. Just right for an outlet. An extremely natural conclusion.

  Many bruises and wounds appeared in inconspicuous places. I realized she was hiding them. But I did nothing. I didn't even say a single word of concern.

  Because that is not correct as a model person. She remained dignified and continued to appear unchanged from usual. That's right. She is correct (wrong).

  No matter what anyone did to her, she just directed pitying eyes at them. Never, not even once, did she retaliate. Even though I knew from hearing in non-essential conversations (Girl Talk) that she knew martial arts and was actually strong.

  Because I was a boring honor student after all, I didn't help even once. Just watching.

  Talking with that child itself decreased. Even though we were neighbors. Even though actually... I thought she was dazzling.

  One day, I saw it. Male students were gathering and gang-raping her. As expected, against several people, maybe there was nothing she could do. Strong males trampling a weak female. It was a truly crazy (correct) sight.

  Seeing that, what do you think I thought?

  Truly a masterpiece. That she wouldn't come from tomorrow with this. That I'd feel relieved. That it was a fitting end for a stubborn person continuing a useless fight.

  Almost unconsciously, my mouth twisted—I really hated myself for thinking such things. Poisoned by society. I will soon become the same (monster) as everyone (them).

  Next day. Seeing her coming to school as if nothing happened, I rounded my eyes. You. Why are you so...

  "Good morning. —-san."

  "...Why?"

  "Hm? Why? —Ah. That kind of thing."

  That kind of thing. Not a bluff. She said it flatly as if it were truly trivial.

  —Ah. How "strong" you are. Compared to that, those worthless guys. And me. How ugly and despicable. Not the false strength that adults and classmates proclaim loudly. Beautiful. And endlessly precarious.

  I envied you who can live so straight and dazzlingly. I was jealous.

  I—hate you like that.

  So one day. Gazing blankly at the scene of her being gang-raped as usual. I inadvertently wished. That those helpless guys should all just "fall."

  Since then, they stopped coming to school. Never again.

  The "Terrible Thing" is swirling happily.

  The death of someone not close is information. If it's the death of an insignificant person, even more so. As always, a word of condolence not from the heart is thrown.

  Without stagnation, the daily life (crazy party) continues. After finishing the ritual of deception in the restroom as usual. I was in an awfully good mood. I think I was barely keeping balance by behaving so.

  Lunch break. I was finally able to talk to her too.

  "Good for you. You were troubled by various things, right?"

  But. She said. With very beautiful. Straight eyes.

  "What's good about it? People died, what part of it is good?"

  "...."

  I felt gouged. It was a fatal wound. Because. I did it for you. Then, I am...

  "I didn't think you were that kind of person."

  "...."

  Worst. Worst worst worst worst. It was predictable. That she is that kind of person. Didn't I know from the start?

  And yet. I. Why did I. ...Worst. Suddenly, hot tears (things) run down my cheeks. No good. Even though it's a weakness I must never show.

  "--san?"

  "No. This is, wrong."

  Unable to patch it up anymore.

  "Ah, wait!"

  I ran out of the classroom covering my face with my sleeve. Running up to the rooftop, confirming no one was watching. Even at a time like this, caring about surroundings.

  Common sense (craziness) is stained in me.

  "Uaaaa..."

  I wept bitterly. Shedding tears like an idiot like this was since I was small. The "Terrible Thing" is sneering hatefully, Keta keta. Squirming happily.

  Fine. Sneer as much as you want if you're going to sneer. I am truly a helpless existence. An idiot, foolish. Hopeless. And yet.

  "--san. You were here."

  "Don't come!"

  Why do you come? Don't come anymore. Leave me alone. Such a pathetic face. I can't show it. I run as a last resistance. The edge of the rooftop. It was a famous spot for suicide.

  Even though I can't die anyway. Just a threat in form. Truly, good for nothing.

  "--san."

  "I said don't come!"

  "...Sorry. I misunderstood you. I thought you were the same as them."

  "I am the same. I felt relieved they died. Those guys."

  "But."

  I didn't want to let her say what's next no matter what.

  "It's nice for you. Because you're strong."

  "Eh...?"

  "Someone like me. Trying to be a good girl. Always wearing a skin. Living as expected by surroundings."

  "...."

  "You. Always straight, dazzling. I envied you. Even though I can't do it even if I want to."

  Because I "drop" something immediately. Because I'm a monster. The "Terrible Thing" is swirling blackly even now.

  Cowardly me. Having no courage to face her. I announced without looking back.

  "I hate you. I hate you so much."

  "--san."

  "Guys who torment you, everyone, everyone. Should have just died!"

  "But. You are crying."

  ....

  "Actually you are—"

  "No."

  "Kind and—"

  "No!"

  No. It's not like that. Even this. Is not the real me. I can't possibly expose everything.

  But. At a place closest to the bare me. She pulled me forcibly from the abyss. And hugged me.

  "It's okay. In front of me, you don't have to force yourself."

  "I, am... I am...!"

  I don't have the qualification to be done this to. I killed them. I killed them. I made them be killed.

  I couldn't say that one sentence to the end. Because that will definitely kill you. So, clenching my teeth hard. But, overflowing tears (things) won't stop.

  "You can cry when it's painful. I think so, though."

  Because you. Are like that. I—

  "...."

  "...."

  I don't remember what I said anymore. Terribly childish. Ugly. Pathetic. But certainly. The world. Only on that day. Looked brighter than anything.

  She talked to me often. That she didn't come to First Training School to become elite (make war). Secret Art of Non-Magic (Arazuma). She is thinking of promoting that research and nurturing it into a technology to save people.

  She never laughed at it saying it's impossible. If it's her. If it's this person, maybe someday surely. She might be able to open a wind hole in the closed world.

  The girl-like monster found a girl-like dream in her. A small light lit up in the pitch-black world. I swore. To help your dream. A purpose was born in a life that was just boring.

  She is completely different from the rabble who are all talk. Actually, she was extremely excellent. Except for morals where she had abundant rebellious spirit, she always maintained top grades.

  I somehow protected the second place. Being taught by her occasionally, receiving stimulation, following one step behind was happiness.

  The "Terrible Thing" seemed bored.

  She was intellectual, wise, and fatally kind. So. What happened after was probably inevitable.

  —War began.

  We were all mobilized as student soldiers without exception. She was chosen as the leader.

  She, who was dignified without uttering a single complaint against any bullying or treatment. No matter what. Could not hurt people. Clumsy and cool. To the extent she couldn't live uglily at all. She was noble and pure.

  Departure was imminent—that day I never forget. Even though my chest is filled with sadness. The sky was stupidly clear. Blue. Like a lie.

  The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

  She was at the edge of death.

  "It became completely opposite to that time, huh."

  "Hey. Wait... Reconsider."

  She stopped me trying to cling to her with her hand.

  "...I thought about various things."

  She stared beyond the sky lonely.

  "Impossible. For me, killing people. I can't forgive myself."

  "But... What about your dream!? Let's live. It might be impossible now. But when the war ends, research too surely...!"

  "You inherit that."

  Dignified as always. It felt like I was coldly pushed away. Always. The one who is correct (wrong) is you. I could only cry and throw a tantrum like a small child.

  "No...! I don't want to if we're not together forever..."

  "Hey, --. Just one thing. Remember this. I'm not just despairing and dying."

  You who were noble no matter what. Didn't expose weakness, didn't even show a single tear. Cried only this once in front of me. Secretly trying to challenge the world.

  How much regret not even being given that opportunity.

  "I—die to be myself. For my own dignity."

  Selfish. Too much trouble. Giving me hope. And disappearing alone.

  I resent even myself for thinking such things enough to want to kill. No. That's not it. People can't live on correctness alone. Why can't you swallow such a simple thing.

  It's okay to be ugly. It's okay to dirty your hands however much. Because I want you to live. Even though I want to say that one word enough to cry. Enough for a hand to come out of my throat.

  Because you who are about to leave are. Too beautiful.

  —The "Terrible Thing" began to throb as if obtaining its will.

  Wait. Not yet. Stop. That child is, no good. Only that. No good!

  I don't wish for such a thing! Always. Correct one is, you. The wrong one is the world!

  But. The ending was decided helplessly. Please. If the world kills you. Why won't you let me die together!

  The "Terrible Thing" clung to her leg unpleasantly gently. And the final push. Ended her, who was more beautiful and precious than anyone, as she was.

  "--. Thank you."

  Ahhh. She "falls."

  In front of my eyes, my best friend. The only human I thought I could open my heart to. The most beautiful, most hated (beloved) thing.

  Making a dry, inorganic sound as usual. "Fell." To the other side out of reach.

  Even though it's the worst of my life. Even though I should be allowed to scream and cry. I. Was just stunned. No sense of reality.

  I who sent her off. Surely wasn't even allowed that. Eventually walking up unsteadily, I performed a mere confirmation task.

  A bright red stain spreads. Becoming a silent lump of blood and meat. That's all. You are an idiot. Until just now. You were shining so much. You weren't so non-individual. Once dead, everyone is the same. It amounts to nothing. Completely boring.

  And so. I ended up undertaking all the roles she was supposed to do. That's natural. Because I was second best. The one the turn comes to is me.

  "I'm expecting a lot. --san."

  Heartless expectation taps my shoulder. Towards that girl who threw away her life herself, everyone was cold and bitter. In the end, that's how it is.

  A major event worth betting one's life on for someone is just an annoying triviality for someone else.

  "Coward." "Traitor." "Hopeless trash."

  What do you understand about that child! The scream of anger that came up to my throat does not actually come out. Because I know in my head that it's useless.

  Just pitch-black emotions well up in my chest, and I can't forgive myself most for trying to become the same kind as these guys in the end.

  No one grieves. Only me. I let her die too. Clinging to something that doesn't exist. Looking around here and there. Listening. As expected, no one cares about you.

  Unable to bear it, I slipped out to the rooftop again.

  "You were here..."

  Stroking the handrail gently, I gaze once again at the last scenery she must have seen. The stain has already been wiped clean, and you are nowhere.

  But.

  "Until just a few days ago, always. You were here..."

  From now on, war begins. Things like this. More gruesome things. Always. Always. From now on too.

  You adults. We (You) who are trying to become adults in the future. Do you intend to continue the worthless war game (Dance of Fools) until the world ends—

  You were kind. Too pure to live in this dirty world. Mother too. The kind older brother in the neighborhood too. The teacher who was caring too. Others too.

  Everyone. The "Terrible Thing". Me. The world. Let everyone die. Things to love are nowhere anymore. And yet only I live nonchalantly. Going to kill many people soon.

  —Ah. How...

  And yet. The sky is stupidly clear.

  No matter how much I feel like dying, no matter how much I hate everything. It's the same as them. Not sympathizing with me at all. A muddy cloudy sky suits the filthy, ugly me well.

  The night sky of the city where no stars can be seen feels comfortable. A blue sky where everything is transparent and no deception works. A beautiful night sky shining with scattered stars of the sea.

  I hate them.

  —I don't want to see anything anymore.

  Although continuing only in form. Actually. The world has already ended long ago. Maybe there is no saving it. Even though there is no value for people (monsters) to live long ago.

  —Enough. I'm tired already. Everyone, everyone. "Fall." Unrealistically beautiful blue sky, just "fall."

  Where was unconsciousness. Where was true intention.

  The "Terrible Thing" laughed loudly as never heard before. The jet-black force field swelled large enough to cover the sky. Raising a shrill scream, it increased its existence while undulating.

  "Eh...?"

  Understanding what it conveys by intuition. The echo of grudge audible to no one but me. The voice of the Thing desiring the end of this world.

  "You... don't tell me. You intend to go that far...?"

  That it was an existence with such power. Foolishly, I didn't understand accurately until this moment. Carelessly. I must have known vaguely, instinctively.

  An invisible lid is placed on the sky. The world is being closed. Pressed towards the ground.

  Ah—the sky is about to "fall."

  The "Terrible Thing" leads the world to the end by invisible power. Except for me, no one perceives the true identity of the terror. It is caused only as a phenomenon recognized after the fact.

  The world becomes flattened. Crushed. And everyone dies. Just that. Extremely simple and helpless end of the world.

  "F-fu. Ahaha."

  A broken smile spilled from my mouth. As if the lid of the sky "falls." The blue sky approaches slowly.

  The rest, if I keep silent. It's the same as always. I just have to tell no one. When everyone realizes, it's already too late.

  Like a bright red fruit. Crushed. Spilled. Everyone becomes the same. Like that child who died all too easily.

  And yet. Even though I say so. Even though I wished for it. Why. Do tears not stop?

  —It was at that moment.

  Breaking through the lid of the sky that finally started to "fall," something. No, someone, suddenly "fell."

  Even though they plunged from far above the sky at clearly tremendous speed. Aiming accurately at the rooftop where I am. Just before the crash, floating softly and landing nonchalantly.

  Just this alone is plenty strange, but.

  "Hi."

  The strange one spoke to me normally. Thinly dressed, men's clothes...? I don't understand the meaning grandly.

  Is she at that age? Certainly, she looks about the same age as adolescent (at that time) me. But in appearance only, she's just a girl. Cute but that's it.

  Rather, there is even innocence, completely unsuitable for the stagnant air of the world ending any moment. The awfully manly attire is somehow disjointed. Why that choice?

  And, she has clear blue eyes like the deep sea. Harboring a mysterious shine like stars.

  "Ha...? No, who?"

  Anyway, everything is too sudden. Forgetting even the worst situation. It's unavoidable that a stupid voice came out involuntarily.

  The asked opponent—the girl smiled softly and started saying something incomprehensible again.

  "Just a passing traveler."

  "Traveler... weird guy..."

  "I get told that often."

  "Strangely divine too... Like an angel of apocalypse or a reaper."

  "I get told that too, sometimes."

  She was smiling bitterly, somewhat troubled. But one must not be deceived by appearance. Absolutely not an ordinary existence.

  Behind the exchange that seemed to relax even the apocalyptic air, I was greatly confused. Guys who "fell" until now all crushed and died. Without exception.

  However, this woman. As if a migratory bird danced down elegantly. Always natural, composed. Nothing making one feel crisis.

  Not clothes. Should I call it aura? A mysterious sea-colored raiment was wrapped around her as if covering her thinly. Blue as the sky, calm as the sea. And beautiful.

  A clear foreign object to this world. Because she is an existence too beautiful, words like angel or reaper slipped out.

  So somehow. No, let's say it honestly. I don't like her at all. A stranger. Intruding selfishly. And at a time like this. What are you. Won't you even let me immerse in sadness!

  The "Terrible Thing" is also completely synchronizing there. It might be the first moment our opinions clearly matched.

  "What business do you have with me?"

  I ended up speaking with thorns like a child, but I can't care about that.

  "I thought you were thinking about something quite dangerous."

  "...How can you know such a thing?"

  "I just know somehow. Because I've seen many people like that."

  The girl speaks as if she knows. But there was a unique implication that could only be thought to be backed by experience. The eyes staring intently at me are assessing something.

  Like piercing. Unpleasant gaze as if seeing through everything shoots through me. And said.

  "You are deeply, very deeply despairing, aren't you."

  "...."

  Hit the bullseye. Thinking it would be better if everything ended. Because I was desperate about everything. Though it's completely ruined because of you.

  "Don't joke with me."

  Strangely, towards this guy. Without hesitation, without face. I felt like I could say whatever I liked. Is it because she has sociability that makes me feel so, or is it devilish charm?

  "Coming suddenly. Barging into people's hearts with muddy shoes. What do you understand!"

  "That's right. I'm a stranger after all. I don't know your deep circumstances."

  Somewhat sadly, the girl lowers her eyes slightly. When she raised her face saying "However," that piercing creepy gaze was capturing me straight again.

  "I can somehow see your heart. Also the thing you call 'Terrible Thing'."

  "Haa...!?

  Wait. Wait. How do you know such a thing. Even though I haven't given you almost a single piece of information. Don't tell me really the heart— Also not good. It became very bad.

  The "Terrible Thing" never shows mercy to those who approach its true identity. See, it already bared its fangs and attacked.

  However. Surprisingly, even the "Terrible Thing" seems unable to lay a hand on her easily. Usually, it should twist and kill in an instant.

  At just one layer of her skin, the jet-black force field stops perfectly. That blue aura. That seems to be repelling every threat.

  The girl laughed kusuri as if soothing a baby boy.

  "What a rowdy boy. Aren't you having a hard time?"

  "Lies. Such a thing."

  For the first time, it couldn't "drop." Even though I trusted only the violence of the "Terrible Thing" absolutely. Clearly not towards me, but towards the "Terrible Thing." Direct tone is strengthened.

  "Be quiet for a bit."

  When the sea-colored eyes narrowed sharply. Just with that. The "Terrible Thing" trembled and shrank. Like a small child scolded for playing a prank.

  Seeing such a figure of "this guy" was also completely the first time.

  "There there. Good boy."

  A monster even I cannot tame. This woman tamed it in an instant. Again, the girl in blue raiment turns to me.

  "Maybe it's not something to hide. I came from outside this world. So, traveler."

  "Ah. That's what it means..."

  Strangely made sense. Appearance and calmness. Clear eyes, unwavering will. Absolutely cannot be a person of this world. No, is she really a person?

  Exactly an angel or reaper appearing at the time of apocalypse. Is she not that itself? The self-proclaimed traveler was seeking essential dialogue, not non-essential conversation (Girl Talk).

  "How about it. Try talking. Think of this stranger as a wall. Sometimes that makes you feel better."

  What is this guy. Really... what?

  "Just."

  She looks up at where she danced down from, as if remembering.

  "Time is needed for that. First, let's deal with the immediate crisis."

  It seemed this person already knew the identity of the catastrophic event long ago.

  "Are you saying you can see it too?"

  "A lid is put on the sky, and it's about to fall, right?"

  "Then why can you be so calm."

  Even though the world is about to end any moment. The girl smiled softly without breaking her composure a bit.

  "It's okay. Because that kind of thing isn't the end of the world or anything."

  "That kind of thing, you say."

  "One thing. I'll teach you. First, that the world is much wider than you think."

  And she spoke as if singing.

  "In my hometown, there is an ancient story."

  There was a person who worried and lamented that the sky would fall any moment and there would be no place to put their body.

  "But in reality, it doesn't happen. That is what you call worrying too much."

  "But. It's actually happening, isn't it."

  "That's why I won't let it. People call that—baseless anxiety (Kiyu)."

  Her left hand was raised high to the heavens. And, light was released. Same as what she wears. Like the sea where warm light shines. Like the clear blue sky.

  Beautiful. I... have seen such a miracle only in images. Magic—something lost from this world.

  The blue light burst midway, divided into countless branches. Covered the sky universally. Clashing head-on with the wall of ruin set by the "Terrible Thing."

  And so. The lid of the sky was smashed all too easily. Fine fragments of force field pour down sparklingly, and an aurora visible only to us is shimmering.

  The girl is dignified. Endlessly unwavering. With a powerful will of light. As if it were natural to happen. She was looking at me with gentle eyes.

  "See?"

  Never allowing me to be just painted in despair. Again. The one I hate came. I thought so intuitively.

  "Oops. I did something flashy so I stood out."

  "Whose fault do you think it is."

  Even if the lid of the sky is invisible, anyone can see magic. Since the people below started buzzing at the mysterious light that suddenly covered the sky, the girl is laughing troubledly as if awkward.

  Looking only at that figure, she doesn't look at all like she just did something outrageous. Like an ordinary girl you can find anywhere around there. Exactly, same as me hiding my true identity.

  The girl reaches out her hand to me.

  "For now, why don't we go somewhere we can talk slowly?"

  "Even though you intend to take me even if I hate it."

  "Ahaha."

  Her tone is gentle, but. An atmosphere that allows no argument, a clear intention can be felt. This dignified part. Strangely reminiscent of that child.

  When it comes to that, I cannot say no. As a last resistance, I tried answering a bit carelessly.

  "Fine. Take me to hell or heaven."

  "That's dangerous. It's not like that."

  Taking her hand, being wrapped in a strange floating feeling for just a moment. Already there, a starry sky spread out. Certainly it wasn't hell or heaven but... again, a scenery I hate.

  I was finally exasperated at the girl who changed the day scenery to night easily.

  "Anything goes, huh... You."

  "I have various experiences."

  "How old are you really?"

  "Who knows."

  She laughs vaguely and is clearly deceiving. Somehow, I was convinced she is not of normal human age.

  "Do you know where this is?"

  "No way I'd know."

  "It's where you're heading in the war."

  "...Stop killing people, you say. Did you come to preach?"

  "That's not it."

  The girl denies softly. Though she doesn't seem to affirm actively either.

  "I thought it's important to look at it properly at least once. The karma you will carry from now on."

  As if she has done so herself. She said so. As urged, I look around.

  Few lights, dim. A leisurely rural landscape was spreading. Beautiful night sky with stardust scattered on a cloudless canvas.

  Certainly... beautiful and idyllic. And the air is delicious.

  Thinking that this will be burned by hellfire later, it's not that my heart doesn't ache. But it's the same for the opponent. If we don't do it, we'll be done in. Because the world is made that way. Because it's cruel.

  "It's depressing in such a school full of malice, isn't it?"

  "Again, talking as if you know."

  The girl is just looking straight. Only at me. What is she expecting? What is she trying to say? For now, I agreed.

  "But, yeah. Really, so."

  "Yeah."

  Still. I will do it. Standing at the front instead of that child—I must do it. Determining that dark resolve hardened once again, she broke the ice.

  "Let's get to the main topic. Certainly for the time being, the end of the world was avoided."

  "Then, it's fine now. Leave me alone. Not related, right?"

  I don't want to get desperate so many times either. Because I already knew the true terror of the "Terrible Thing."

  "Not quite," the meddlesome girl shakes her head slightly. "You already know, right? That this is not the end, nor even the beginning."

  Yes. The current you yourself should know best. Stabbed with a knife of words, I get flustered.

  The "Terrible Thing" is still frightened of this unidentified girl even now. No—is the one frightened fundamentally me? Before I knew it, I felt cold sweat soaking my whole body.

  "That thing you call 'Terrible Thing' is inseparably linked to your own soul. It's a troublesome nature of you yourself."

  "Haa... In the end, I myself was a monster."

  "I cannot deny that aspect."

  Is this girl kind? Or not kind? No matter how cruel, she guesses the essence bluntly. Even though her attitude is close and caring, she seems to push away somewhere.

  "What covers this world is a disease called despair."

  "You say it quite stylishly."

  When I poked back at the stylish part, the girl also got flustered slightly. Somehow a little funny. Really weird guy. Maybe she's actually easy to understand.

  But pulling herself together immediately, she continues.

  "But you see. In reality, the world won't perish by such things. Accompanied by much pain, the world still continues."

  Unless you get desperate and fight a destructive battle (Catastrophe). While driving a huge nail, the girl lists facts indifferently. One world is certainly finite. But magic is not the only resource of the world.

  The true ruin should be much further ahead. Beyond the dream that child wished for. Perhaps this person knows it.

  "However. Only you are different."

  Clear blue eyes shoot a wedge of maximum warning at me.

  "Just wishing a little out of desperation causes a catastrophic event all too easily."

  "...What are you trying to say."

  "If you wish seriously, what do you think will happen?"

  "...."

  "If the world were to perish tomorrow. It is none other. It's you."

  In short. A decisive word was told.

  "Undoubtedly. You are the one who can destroy the world."

  "――――"

  I am, the one who destroys the world. I see... It was so after all... Since I was young, somehow. Maybe. Isn't it so?

  I feared all along. One who rings the bell of the end in the twilight world. Monster who pulls and "drops" the edge of the world. That is, my true identity...

  —Again. Crying again. Since the other day, all the time. It's strange already.

  "Then. What should I do... Even though I cannot even die by myself..."

  "Unfortunately. There is no easy escape route. In this world filled with the disease of despair. You must continue to fight the 'Terrible Thing' for the rest of your life."

  The "Terrible Thing" is standing dejectedly. As if it was scolded too.

  I couldn't get an easy-to-understand answer. The traveler is just passing by. Just conveying tasks and facts. Sad. Frustrated. And, I became unnecessarily angry.

  With surging passion, I press her. Only totally childish emotions running ahead, I was grabbing her lapel.

  "You are... You are! Really, what did you come here for! I'm dangerous, right! If you're going to kill, kill me quickly!"

  "...."

  This time the girl is, like a scolded child. Just looking at me sadly, clenching her teeth silently. I slammed my fist on her chest violently, again and again.

  "Why is it. Why, is it always like this!"

  If only that child were here. That was enough. No matter how harsh the world. I could live with hope. And yet. And yet!

  You are! Now, becoming almost too late. Even if you came to save only me, it's no use. It amounts to nothing...!

  "Why didn't you come even a few days earlier! If it were you, you could have saved her!"

  I know it's no use saying. But, I couldn't help but blame.

  "It's no good. It's no good anymore... A world without that child. It's lonely for me. I don't seem to be able to endure it..."

  "I see... That's right."

  Cold drops fall on my cheek. Not rain. Looking up. From the corner of the girl's eyes too, large tears were spilling.

  Are you stupid. Why are you crying together... Because. You're a stranger. You don't know anything. Things of this world are not related at all. With this... I am.

  "Sorry. I'm really sorry. For not making it in time."

  "Uwaaaaaaa...!"

  She just continued to accept my sadness all in one body. Enough to repaint the weather, my sky was soaked in full rain.

  "Then. You won't help with the war, right?"

  If it's you who broke the wall of the sky easily. You could end it with just one blow. You should definitely be able to burn the people of this enemy country with the miracle called magic.

  But, I already knew the answer.

  "Sorry. I can't do that either. You should know that really, shouldn't you?"

  "...Yeah, right."

  Because, it's a problem of our world. People fighting people, neither is correct. There is no justice anywhere. Just fighting. Either winning or losing. Dragging pain.

  "Because I, a stranger, am not in a position to judge."

  As if expressing her limit. The traveler. After all. Somewhat sadly, muttered so.

  "Even if you lose something precious. Still life goes on."

  It's not something to compare with people but. Me too. It was so. The traveler gazing beyond the starry sky, narrowing eyes suddenly.

  What does she think really? Something beyond imagination might be hidden deep in that chest. This person too, must be a kind of monster undoubtedly.

  But deep circumstances, "stranger" me has no way of knowing.

  "Give me your hand."

  When I offered it as told, warm light entered my chest smoothly. The "Terrible Thing" is frowning saying spare me.

  "Connection is made," the girl smiles. "When you are really in trouble, call for help in your heart. I'll come again. No matter how many times, I'll support the sky that seems to fall."

  But.

  "Listen. You have a battle only you can do."

  Facing one's own "inner self", living in this world. The girl announces like praying and wishing. More severe than anything. Cruel fact.

  "You are a lonely warrior. No one will save you in the true sense. You are certainly a hopeless monster."

  But simultaneous with pushing away coldly, she grants hot support. It was words kind from the heart, and warm.

  "But, human. You can cry for people. You know the lamentation of the dying. You actually have a kind heart."

  As long as that is so.

  "Even if no one is watching, I am watching."

  "...."

  "So. Please, be human until the end. I want you to complete this battle called life."

  "...Are you stupid? You were crying earlier. Where on earth is a stranger who asks with a face about to cry straightly like that again?"

  "Because. Aren't you frustrated?"

  That kind of thing. Needless to say.

  "I am frustrated. Of course I am frustrated!"

  "Do you seriously think you want to end like this?"

  "No way. I don't want to lose...!"

  "Right? That's right!"

  "That's right!"

  Girls unseemly. Crying together. Shouting under the starry sky.

  "Then, fight. Please live this world you think is worthless with all your might."

  And, even so. Just one, she added forgiveness.

  "If you truly become a threat to the world. If it finally becomes really hopeless."

  The girl announces clearly, sadly again, but with firm will.

  "At that time—I will end you."

  Ah. How unwavering. Resolute. Strong eyes she has. This person will do it. When the time comes, she will definitely do so. But. Not yet. Not now.

  —Finally, I understood. Deep in my heart, my soul was shouting all along.

  I don't want to lose. I want to live! This worthless, full of crazy guys. Hopeless world. Even so.

  For the sake of those people who were really helpless and "fell." For the sake of that child. I want to carve it. Into the world. Proof that I lived. Wishes of those who died without fulfillment. Dreams.

  If someone doesn't do it. Isn't it too unrewarded?

  "I got it. I will take those children to the future."

  "Yeah. That's good."

  The girl looked into my eyes firmly and nodded.

  "One last thing. That 'it' of yours is a precious part of you. If you really wish, that child should surely become your strength."

  "Maybe so... Surely, so."

  The "Terrible Thing" is swaying waveringly. Me, the master. Watching intently what was said. After all, once understood, it looks like a small child too.

  Hey, "You". "You" are probably a part of my bare soul. Childish. Pure. Prank-loving. Hating this world, hating it, helplessly. Surely. That's why you "drop". Because you don't want to see what you don't want to see. I probably can't tame "You" for the rest of my life. I'll probably be troubled a lot from now on. There is one thing I believe. I know "You" won't let me die. I will definitely survive the war. Even if ugly, no matter how many people I kill. I'll survive. And someday. The world.

  "But is it okay? You might have let an outrageous thing live. I'll probably kill many people too."

  "I know. So at least, I'll carry what I can carry. I'll just watch over you as much as I can."

  "Then, I'll show you. I won't lose. Don't underestimate me. Reaper."

  "Fufu. That's fine."

  The girl in blue raiment smiles happily. And my unknown battle ended up continuing still.

  Let's talk about after that. The "Terrible Thing" was, as expected or. What should I say.

  On the battlefield where death rained down, it didn't hurt me even once. Continued to "drop" the lives of enemies.

  I who survived raising great military results in the war was promised many medals and glory, and promotion. Obtaining brief peace, I obtained a position to promote research of Secret Art of Non-Magic (Arazuma).

  Placing many people, finding that child's comrades. Supporting. Exactly the gift of my authority.

  The "Terrible Thing" was, after all, not easy. No matter what splendid determination, people have moments of wavering if they live long.

  A little melancholy. Desperation. Immediately tried to "drop" the sky or something. Truly troublesomely. Just with one mood of mine, the world was about to perish easily.

  That meddlesome guy. Came as many times as said, always supported the sky likely to "fall." But not even once, did she stay long. Asking, it's not that she's heartless. Apparently time is limited. Because she appears anytime in crisis.

  Apologized that she couldn't be a friend walking the same path. Anyway she can't replace that child, and I don't mind. Strange "friend" relationship continued at a distance neither too close nor too far.

  And. Truly boring, mundane story but. Bloody battle isn't only life. Despairing isn't only life either.

  Married surprisingly ordinarily, becoming busy with life too. Gradually the "Terrible Thing" came to like trivial bullying. In short, it wants attention.

  Right. When it twisted and "dropped" my baby, I cried for days. Gave birth without being discouraged. Birthed and "dropped".

  My child "dropped" life twice, and the third time wasn't killed anymore. The "Blue Traveler" appeared twice for comfort, and the third time protected just in time. Because small lives "fall" too quickly, it seems.

  From beyond the distant starry sky, she cannot arrive in an instant every time. Even she who seemed close to God seems to have limits. Well, I knew such a thing long ago when she couldn't save that child, though.

  Well. Anyhow. My tenacity won. The daughter was a normal child with nothing special, and the guy was aiming to "drop" this child vigilantly, but. Yu and I together continued to soothe and coax "this guy".

  That was right. That guy's name seems to be Yu Hoshimi. Sometime, she told me casually. Kindness spanning the Sea of Stars. Fufu. What a karmic name.

  She never ages, and says she can be both man and woman. Out of curiosity, I was shown the male figure too. It was the moment the mystery of that strange attire was solved clearly. Still. To be favored by a completely strange guy.

  "Right. I haven't named myself yet either."

  Misora. That is my name.

  "My mother apparently took it from an ancient language and named me. Just the sound, I don't know the meaning."

  "It means Beautiful Sky. Yeah. Very, good name."

  "I see."

  Now, the clear sky of that day too. Can I like it a little? Yeah—still not quite. Seems I hate it. But. Even just a little. If I can change the world for the better direction. Will the day come when I can like it more?

  Hey. "Terrible Thing". You still hate the current world, don't you. Throwing tantrums like a child, continuing to "drop", right. Then.

  "One thing. I thought of something interesting. Will you help?"

  The "Terrible Thing" chuckled most happily in its life.

  Repelling all political strifes, wars. "Dropping" many lives, I "climbed" to World President. And so, the plan to "drop" the world level slowly began.

  "Dropping" birth rate systematically, "dropping" energy usage too. All things proceeded top "down".

  Had "that child" cooperate maximally too. Frolicking as things to "drop" are given one after another is just like an innocent child.

  Of course, it doesn't move as I wish for everything. Like a selfish child, really troublesome. However, it responded with full power to what I sincerely desired.

  Created long peace forcibly with arm strength. Resources that should be devoted to war were all directed to the development of Secret Art of Non-Magic (Arazuma).

  Suicide rate "dropped", death rate "dropped". Because we relied on magic so much until now, we couldn't see what was there. The world is still finite, but the end of this world seems to be farther than thought.

  As you wished. As the traveler taught. Secret Art of Non-Magic (Arazuma) came to be called new True Art (Majutsu) soon. Anyway, the abbreviation is Arama, though.

  In Yu's world—it seems to be called Science.

  Empress whose career never "dropped" even once. World's greatest leader, and world's worst slaughterer.

  Reaper who unnaturally kicked "down" many rivals. Gathering numerous praises, awe, and respect. I reigned over the world as "Terrible Person".

  Although being said variously. No one knows the real me. Except for only two.

  When the light of life "falls", it was instant when realized. One who was once a girl has now aged decrepitly without a shadow. There are pains and hardships of life as many as the wrinkles carved on the face.

  And, I was much happier than I thought. Blessed with precious family, could see even granddaughter. War hasn't happened for thirty years. Countdown to world destruction extended beyond hundreds to thousand years.

  However. I know well. Now is exactly the hopeless crisis of the world.

  If I die and am released like this, the "Terrible Thing" will immediately turn into something that destroys the world. I no longer hate the "Terrible Thing". But I want to let the selfish child die as a selfish child. That is parental love.

  So, I had to end it here. The time has come to ask that meddlesome person.

  Bidding farewell to family and granddaughter, I head to the place of memories of that day. Beautiful starry sky was shining endlessly. With a figure not changing a bit from that day, she welcomes me warmly. Only I have aged completely.

  "You did well. You didn't lose in the end. To the crisis of the world no one knows. More than anything, to yourself."

  "I told you so."

  Something not a girl like a girl. And something that was once like a girl. Unseemly like that day. Both spilling tears poro poro from both eyes. No need to hesitate for anyone. What a wonderful parting time.

  "I praise you. Even if no one knows the true figure. You were a splendid hero."

  "Hero, that's exaggerated."

  As one who stands above. Also as a mother and grandmother. I have seen various people's lives. Surely for anyone. More or less. There is a battle. It's just that in my case, the scale was a bit large.

  "About the granddaughter."

  "I know."

  "Then already. No regrets."

  "Yeah. Rest assured and sleep."

  Named Akari. Picked up from the language of Yu's hometown. Be the one who illuminates this world. Putting such a wish.

  "She grew up to be a very kind, good girl."

  Being able to cry for someone. So that it becomes a little more common world. I always. Wished for that the most.

  "Then."

  "Yes."

  Blue light announcing the end bursts. No pain, no suffering. The "Terrible Thing" was no longer a "Terrible Thing". Withering slowly with me whose life is ending, falling into a deep sleep.

  True monsters, maybe they weren't anywhere from the start. That from start to finish, it was a battle between people.

  Why. In what world is there a reaper who thinks of people and cries like a brave girl.

  "You too, have been fighting all along."

  "Yeah. This road surely continues endlessly."

  Just one thing. Being beaten all the time is frustrating. Finally, I triumphed over her.

  "How is it. I walked through splendidly. You don't lose either."

  "Yeah. I'll do my best."

  Memories overflow in the chest, disappearing like bubbles and passing away. From a senior in life. To a strange "friend" whom I didn't know well in the end, not even something to call a best friend.

  Fight. Don't lose. I want you to save my granddaughter and many "Me" from now on. With this strict yet earnest wish and cheer as a gift—I shall go on an eternal journey.

  "Hey Yu. You killed Grandmother, right?"

  "Ugh..."

  "Ufufu. The way I said it was mean."

  Akari floated a cheerful smile typical of a mischievous girl.

  "So that Grandmother could end as a human, you assisted her suicide (Kaishaku), right?"

  "Haha... You are really sharp."

  "Thank you. Because Grandmother looked really happy when talking about you."

  Staring at the girl smiling like a flower. Once again. I think I must protect.

  Yu Hoshimi knows. That abnormal lives deviated from reason are all destined to fight [Fate]. Just as she herself is, and just as the girl of the past who continued to face the "Terrible Thing" was.

  And if there is no help, they will surely follow a catastrophic and miserable ending. The world never forgives abnormal things. Abnormal lifeforms always die in tragedy. So that everything follows the decided fate.

  Because the world is made extremely cruel.

  Yes. Certainly the sky was about to "fall" a little more. Where no one but the parties involved knew.

  But. She also knows. Abnormal people, precisely because they are deviated from reason. Having a will and continuing to fight is never wasted. That it can sometimes be a blow that changes the world.

  Yu Hoshimi knows painfully.

  Akari. Many trials will await you from now on. Because the world is like that. But. Because that person fought hard and entrusted hope to the future. The world for you is surely a little kinder.

  It should be. It must be so. I have to make it so.

  Because for that, the "Blue Traveler" connecting thoughts across eras exists.

  "A little bit. Shall we talk about old times? It's a story of a girl who cried that the sky is falling."

  "Is that Grandmother's story?"

  "Yeah. That's right."

  "Tell me, tell me!"

  "Alright, alright. Now, where shall I start—"

  If I said the sky is falling, people call it baseless anxiety (Kiyu).

  The Sky is falling, yet the World continues.