Shibuya—one of the most bustling, glamorous districts in all of Tokyo.
Neon lights painted the streets, the crowds flowed endlessly, and towering buildings stood like monuments to modern excess. Everywhere, the air buzzed with luxury and life.
And among the sea of people, one figure drew every eye.
A handsome white-haired boy with striking crimson eyes. His presence alone guaranteed a hundred percent turn rate—every passerby couldn't help but glance at him.
"Almost time, huh?"
Hayashi checked his phone. There were only ten minutes left before his meeting with Ilhei.
Leaning casually against the wall, his gaze swept across the familiar streets. Same night, same Shibuya... he just hoped nothing chaotic would happen this time.
As that thought crossed his mind, a lazy, melodic voice drifted into his ears.
"Sorry to keep you waiting, Investigator Hayashi—I'm late."
He looked up, and there she was: Ilhei, her delicate, flawless face glowing beneath the city lights.
"No worries. I just got here myself."
That wasn't even a lie—he had arrived only minutes earlier. Still, it had been a close call. Rize had been relentless earlier, and after a good meal her energy had only gone up. Luckily, thanks to the Dog Talisman, his body had managed to recover quickly. At least the days of post-battle kidney failure were behind him.
"Investigator Hayashi, have you eaten yet?"
Ilhei stepped closer, her sweet smile radiant.
"Not yet" Hayashi replied. Water, sure—but food? Not really.
"Perfect. I know a great spot. Let's go."
With a cheerful grin, Ilhei led him deeper into Shibuya.
It was rush hour—office workers trudged past, briefcases in hand, faces weighed down by exhaustion. Meanwhile, groups of students laughed and chattered, their energy radiating youth.
Soon, they arrived at the restaurant Ilhei often visited. The aroma alone was enough to prove its popularity—the place was packed to the brim, with a long line stretching outside.
Fortunately, they had reserved seats. Without it, who knew how many hours they would've been stuck waiting?
"I've already chosen my favorites. Here, you pick the rest."
Ilhei passed him the menu with a bright smile.
"Thanks."
Hayashi glanced over it. The variety was broad, covering all kinds of dishes. He ordered a few familiar plates, then handed the menu back to the waiter.
It was then he noticed Ilhei's gaze—soft, steady, and fixed right on him.
"What's wrong?" he asked.
"Nothing" she said with a teasing smile. "It's just… seeing you outside of work like this feels different."
"Different how?"
"Usually we're surrounded by noise—missions, reports, meetings. But now…" She tilted her head slightly, eyes glinting in the warm light. "Now it feels like I'm really getting to know you."
Hayashi leaned back in his chair, smirking faintly. "So what's the verdict?"
Ilhei chuckled. "Not bad. You're easier to talk to than I thought."
"Easier to talk to? I'll take that as a compliment."
"It is" she replied, her smile softening. "It's nice… just being able to sit here like this."
Hayashi picked up his glass, raising it slightly. "Then let's make it a proper occasion."
Ilhei mirrored the gesture, her fingertips brushing lightly against his as their glasses clinked together.
"Looking forward to working with you
"Same here"
Their food soon arrived—an entire table packed with vibrant dishes.
"Go ahead, try it. I've eaten here so many times. The food's amazing" Ilhei said proudly.
Hayashi took a piece of bread and bit into it. Soft, fragrant, with a buttery cream inside—rich and delicious.
"Not bad at all. Pretty good."
Hearing his approval, Ilhei's lips curved into a satisfied smile. She picked up a pineapple bun, taking a small bite, her expression glowing with delight.
"You really like those?" Hayashi asked.
"Mhm. Sweet and fluffy—I love the taste," she replied, narrowing her eyes slightly in pleasure, looking almost kitten-like.
Hayashi's gaze lingered.
That habit of hers—narrowing her eyes while focusing—it wasn't just a quirk. It was because of her failing eyesight.
Ilhei was a half-human. Their physical capabilities far surpassed ordinary humans, but their lifespans were short, their bodies burning out at nearly 2.5 times the normal rate.
At twenty years old, Ilhei's body was already like that of a fifty-year-old human. Her vision and hearing were beginning to fade—and it would only worsen rapidly.
In a few years, she might not be able to see or hear at all.
But maybe... just maybe, the Horse Talisman could change that.