Chapter 1

Kinda looks as if it might rain.

That's just what I don't like. If you remember, it was raining when the last guy died, and the one before that.

Oh, yeah, thanks a lot for bringing that up.

Ah! So it's on rainy days that it happens, huh? Good to know.

Captain Shiba! What a surprise!

What are you doing here?

Oh, me? I was looking for a bathroom and got lost.

Sir, you're a terrible liar.

Look, men, if it does rain tonight, you can go on home.

............

Never could pee with an audience.

How is school coming along, Masaki?

Oh! Were you talking to me?

Sorry, Aunt Izumi. Well, I go in every day and I'm always on time!

I see. And how about your Seiren training?

Ah. My Seiren training. Well, it's going so-so, I guess.

Just "so-so??" That's all?!

Yes, I'm sorry!

I don't think you really understand your situation.

You're the only surviving member of the Kurosaki family, without parents or siblings of any kind! It's only because you're a fellow Quincy that we even took you in!

Mother!

That's quite enough. I could hear you all the way down the hall.

I'll be in my room.

Where's Father?

At the Fünfte Feld. Don't ask me when he'll come back. He never tells me.

Masaki.

Hm?

I'm sorry. I hope you'll forgive my mother. She's taking her loneliness out on you.

Oh, don't be silly, Ryu. There's nothing to forgive. I totally understand! Thanks for the meal!

Be careful of the shrimp casserole, it's addictive. I'll see you later!