By the way, there hasn't been a single trace of a heroine up to this point. How is that even possible? (Spoiler: there won't be one for a while yet.) But I won't back down, I won't pander, and I won't regret anything. And finally, here comes Michael. Could he be the heroine option, along with Joseph?
Note: The protagonist is straight.
I entered junior high—or what they call middle school here—and my standing remained exactly the same. Given that this is an integrated elementary-to-high school, I suppose I shouldn't be surprised. Well, my mission hasn't changed, and I'm honestly enjoying the fullness of my days. Time for a fresh start.
Oh? Was there any romantic gossip?
There was none (I'm fuming).
It's important to remember that this era is still 200 years in the past; women haven't made their social entry yet. Therefore, this is an all-boys school (cries). But honestly, I should just be grateful I can even attend school. It's easy to forget that this world is still struggling, and people don't have the luxury of much leisure time.
Now, my younger brother—or rather, the future Don—has finally entered elementary school. Michael is seven. Unlike me, he's been active since he was small, running around everywhere. And he often tackled me. I was trying to train, so I'd use Nen disguised as magic to fend him off, and he seemed to love it. By the time he entered elementary school, he'd heard the rumors about me from the older kids and developed a profound respect. After observing me for a while, he started following me around constantly. It's a genuine hindrance to my training. I'd try to shake him off with Zetsu, but somehow, he'd find me instantly. When I asked him why he clung to me with such persistence, he replied:
"I want to be strong like Big Bro."
Hmm. How should I respond to that? I really don't want to spread knowledge of Nen carelessly. Even if there is no Hunter Association here, I'd probably still get in trouble. But when I pressed him further about why he wanted to be strong, he hesitated before admitting:
"...I'm going to do Dad's job, and I need to be strong for that. You don't want to do Dad's job, do you? Even though you'd be better at it..."
...How was I supposed to react? Did Michael really understand what the family business entailed? And while it was true I intended to leave and become a Hunter, I was certain I hadn't shown any sign of it. ...But I guess he's family. Maybe it was time to finally discuss my future with Michael and my parents.
"You're right, Brother. I have no intention of taking over the family business. But don't misunderstand—it's not because I dislike the family. I just really need to see the world. I've been preparing for it since I was small. I think the family business would suffer if it were run by someone with so little motivation. I'm sorry, Michael."
"No, that's not it. I like Dad, so I want to do his job. But I'm scared because I don't think I can be like Dad or like you, Big Bro. That's why I need your strength to help me."
...Is this kid really seven years old? He's too smart; his foresight is unnerving. Was my father priming him? In any case, I wasn't against helping him. Since Michael would be taking over in my place, I felt obliged to assist him as much as possible. However, I didn't want him to acquire power only to lose control and act recklessly. So, I asked him to make a vow.
"You have your own strengths, but... alright. I will teach you the secret to my strength. In exchange, there are three conditions. First, my instruction is absolute. Second, you must keep this a secret. You can't tell anyone; this power is that important. Third, you must never use this power to oppress others. That's it. Now, what will you swear on to keep this promise?"
"My life."
Without hesitation, Michael answered, biting into the flesh of his own thumb and offering it to me. It was the Blood Oath. ...This kid is serious. Usually, you just prick your finger with a needle. It must have hurt him, yet his expression was completely calm.
...You really are the one who should be doing this job.
Fine. I matched his resolve and did the same. It hurt. I am definitely not cut out for the Mafia, but I couldn't let my five-year-younger brother see me flinch. I kept my face impassive and pressed my thumbs against his.
"The Blood Oath is now complete! Now, as your Master, I shall give you your first instruction."
"Stop calling me 'Big Bro.' Call me just 'Brother' or 'Big Brother.'"
That night, I went to my father's study for the first time in a long time. It was my way of settling things.
"Father, I need to talk to you."
"What a coincidence. I also had something to discuss with you. Why don't you go first?"
...I can't beat him. He sees everything. He really earned his place as the head of the Family. In that case, there's no need for detours.
"In the future, I want to travel the world. I'm leaving the family business to Michael. I will train him in my own way. I know this is a difficult thing to ask, Father, but my mind is made up."
I spoke in one breath. There was a long silence. Even without Nen, this man's pressure is intense. But I wouldn't back down. This was my moment of truth.
After a long pause, my father sighed gently and began to speak quietly.
"...Your mother and I worried constantly about your poor health when you were small. We felt so helpless, watching you suffer and being unable to do anything... Children are said to be God's for the first seven years. We were always prepared for you to be called away. ...But you survived. You did it with your own strength. Blood will tell. Seeing you grow into a man fit to lead others, I also began to dream. ...I wanted to entrust the Family to you. But as I watched you grow, my mind changed... You are a man who will change the world. You must have been born with some greater purpose. ...If so, the only thing I can do is send you off happily. Don't worry about the Family business. That is my job. You live the life you want. That thought hasn't changed, now or ever. That goes for Michael too. But you and Michael are a precious family. Even if you leave and don't take over, never hesitate to come home."
...Ah, I really can't beat this man. I'm about to cry. I love my father, who is usually a man of few words but always thinks of his family. I loved my family in my previous life, but I love my current family just as much. Holding back my tears, I gave him my thanks.
"Thank you. But I will keep my word. Until I finish school, that is. This is my commitment. I will be Michael's strength for as long as he needs me. That's a promise."
My father smiled, pulled a valuable-looking bottle from his study shelf, and offered it to me.
"Drink. You are now a fine man. This is a celebration."
After that, Father and I talked about everything: my childhood memories, school, Joseph, Michael, and me. My father already knew about my power. He knew and kept quiet. Even though I'm sure I could have been extremely useful, he let me pursue my own path, and I am filled with gratitude. I want to be a man with such greatness of character someday. He is the only person I truly respect in this short yet long life I've had. I will continue to cherish him. And I will help this family with all the strength I possess.
That is my vow.
I don't get drunk due to my constitution, but I can still enjoy the flavor. We talked for a long, long time. It was a dreamlike evening. If my father enjoyed it, that's what matters most. I will accompany him like this often from now on. Finally, as I carried my drunken father to bed, he whispered softly:
"...Look after Michael..."
I understand, Father. Leave Michael to me. I told him, and he fell asleep with a happy look on his face.
Thank you, Father. I will keep my promise.
✨ Hey Reader!
If you're enjoying this story and want to read more chapters right now, consider supporting me on Patreon.
Your support inspires me to create even better stories and reach my full potential!
https://patreon.com/Writer4u
⭐10 Advanced Chapters Available on my Patreon!