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CHAPTER 03: STATE OF EMERGENCY IN SAKAMIYA

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The screen in the middle of the train carriage suddenly stopped playing the music video, flickering a few times before switching to a news broadcast from the Tokyo TV channel. The familiar Tokyo TV jingle, marking the start of an emergency news broadcast, played clearly and slightly louder. It seemed the screen volume had been increased to ensure all passengers could hear more clearly.

Haruto, who had been trying to distract himself from observing the serious expressions of the passengers absorbed in their smartphones, was startled by the sudden switch to the news broadcast.

The abrupt change caught everyone's attention. Almost every passenger reflexively turned to look at the screen in the center of the train car. It was unusual to see breaking news displayed in public places, especially on public transportation. The Tokyo TV breaking news logo appeared briefly before shifting to the tense face of a female news anchor.

The anchor, her expression serious and focused, appeared on the screen as the volume increased once again, ensuring that everyone in the carriage would hear the broadcast loud and clear.

“Breaking News. We are interrupting this program to deliver an urgent report.” The anchor announced, her voice steady but tinged with urgency. Her expression conveyed the gravity of the situation she was about to unveil.

"An unusual phenomenon, appearing as a large, mysterious dimensional crack, has emerged in the parking lot of Sakamiya University approximately five hours ago. We will now go live to our on-site reporter, Minori, who is already at the scene."

The screen transitioned to a dual display. On the right, the on-site reporter, Minori, stood at the location. "Minori-san, please report on what is happening at the Sakamiya University parking lot." Lenora asked, signaling Minori to begin her live report.

The dual screen shifted to a full-screen live broadcast, showing Minori standing at the scene. "Thank you, Lenora-san. Yes, we are currently witnessing an unprecedented event here."

The camera slowly zoomed out, revealing the dimensional rift at some distance behind the reporter—a massive tear in the fabric of reality itself. Towering and wide, the rift emitted an eerie bluish-green glow, spiraling and twisting in a continuous, unsettling motion. It pulsed rhythmically, its light fading and brightening in a continuous, hypnotic cycle.

Around the rift, the scene was chaotic, with police and military personnel deployed to secure the area. Their tense and urgent movements underscored the gravity of the situation.

Minori's voice trembled slightly, a mix of awe and apprehension as she continued her report, “As you can see behind me, this dimensional rift is unlike anything we've ever encountered before. Authorities are securing the area, and more military units are being deployed as we speak.”

The camera panned across the glowing rift, capturing the eerie light that pulsed from within. A low, persistent hum filled the air, accompanied by strange, whisper-like sounds that seemed to echo in the background.

“This rift." Minori continued, “Emits an unearthly light and an unsettling noise, a constant hum mingled with strange whispers. These whispers sound quite eerie and mysterious, like, they're trying to call or draw us in. There's a real sense of tension here as experts struggle to understand this phenomenon."

Haruto’s heart began to race as he stared at the screen, recognizing the campus parking lot he knew so well now being shown in the breaking news broadcast. His mind reeled with questions about what could possibly be happening. The uneasy feeling from earlier now swelled into a wave of dread.

Lenora, now in voice-only mode, asked Minori for more details about the scene, “Minori-san, is there any further explanation from the police or military who are on duty to secure the area?"

Minori replied, "No, Lenora-san, they don't know anything about this phenomenon, but due to potential danger coming from it, the authorities said that everyone should stay away from Sakamiya University."

Minori closed her live report from the scene, "That wraps our live report from Sakamiya University. Let's return to Lenora-san."

The news anchor, Lenora, came back on screen in full, her voice firm as she delivered a dire warning, “Thank you for the report, Minori-san. As the authorities said, we urge everyone in the area to evacuate immediately and follow instructions from the authorities. More military forces are being dispatched to ensure public safety and prepare for any potential threats. Please, stay away from the Sakamiya University area.”

Lenora then continued her breaking news broadcast, attempting to contact experts. "Now we will try to contact some experts who might know what is actually happening and how this phenomenon appeared."

As the broadcast continued with a conference call among some experts, Haruto's phone buzzed again. He glanced down and saw another message from Kanna. This one was brief but equally urgent:

“Haruto-kun, head to campus now and let me know as soon as you arrive. Your presence is needed immediately.”

Haruto's thoughts swirled with confusion and concern, but there wasn't much time to think as he could feel the atmosphere inside the train car shifting rapidly. Panic seemed to ripple through the passengers, spreading like wildfire. The once-quiet train car was now buzzing with activity as passengers reacted to the breaking news. The calm had been shattered, and chaos was beginning to take its place.

People began frantically typed something on their phones in a frenzy. Some desperately checking the internet and social media for updates, while others called or texted their families and friends. A few others were already glued to the live news videos streaming on mainstream media sites, their eyes wide with growing alarm.

"Did you see that?" one man asked, pointing at the screen. "It’s happening at Sakamiya University!"

“Oh no! My brother goes there! I need to call him!" a woman exclaimed in a panicked voice, sitting not too far from Haruto.

“What is the government thinking?! Locking down the whole area without a word to us?!” yelled a young man with short hair, his frustration bubbling over as he angrily typed on his phone.

“This is insane! I can’t afford to miss the deadline for my work project next to campus." muttered a young woman dressed in casual business attire, glaring at her phone with clear annoyance etched across her face.

“Damn it! We can’t just cancel our study plans and business projects for the day!” another person cursed under his breath. He appeared to be a businessman in his 40s, visibly displeased by the sudden turn of events.

“Well, it’s unavoidable, isn't it? They have to shut down the area. Isn’t it obvious? This incident could threaten the safety of the entire Tokyo population." said an older man, trying to make sense of the situation.

“Hey, look! I just got a live video from my friend near the area. It’s true! There really is a dimensional rift over there.” A young man sitting across from Haruto sounded astonished as he showed the footage he’d just received on his phone.

The air grew tense, a sense of foreboding thickening with each passing second, as if people all suddenly became aware that something big and potentially disruptive to their daily lives was happening.

Haruto’s usual indifference warred with a rising sense of curiosity. He wasn’t the type to get involved in things that didn’t directly concern him. Normally, he wouldn’t care about something like this—unless, of course, it affected him personally or his younger sister, Ayano.

* * * *

(Flashback)

Sakamiya Tower Residence 1

Today - Earlier Morning

06:30 AM

The morning atmosphere in Tokyo always felt distinct—the bustling city, the constant hum of vehicles, and the hurried footsteps of people rushing to school or work created a unique symphony of metropolitan life. Haruto Mori, a 22-year-old and a fourth-year student at Sakamiya University, had long grown accustomed to this daily rhythm.

He woke up early and started preparing for his last lecture of the semester. A notification on his phone displayed the weather forecast—heavy rain and thunderstorms throughout the day. For three days straight, torrential rain had hammered the city, punctuated by flashes of lightning and the low growl of thunder. Haruto hoped the weather would clear up by the afternoon. This way, he wouldn’t face too much trouble getting home, or perhaps stopping somewhere on his way back.

After showering, brushing his teeth, and getting dressed, Haruto briefly considered brewing his favorite coffee. However, he decided against it, not wanting to risk being late for class. The rain would likely cause traffic delays, overcrowded train stations, and other unforeseen hassles that could make him miss the train. I can't afford to be late to campus.. he thought to himself. He wasn’t willing to take any chances.

"Nii-chan, I’ve made breakfast and coffee for you!" The sweet voice of Haruto’s younger sister, Ayano, echoed through the apartment. “I’m heading to school now. See you later!”

Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.

Ayano Mori, 17-years-old, is a third-year student at Sakamiya High School, was always so thoughtful when it came to her brother. Despite her young age, she constantly found many ways to support Haruto, doing whatever she could to make his day a little easier.

"Thanks a lot, Ayano. Be careful on your way to school, okay?" Haruto called back, his voice filled with gratitude and gentle concern. As he glanced at the simple breakfast and coffee she had prepared, a small wave of reluctance washed over him. He didn’t want to take her efforts for granted, knowing how much she cared.

These small gestures—her quiet acts of love—always warmed his heart. After all, Ayano was the only family he had left, and he cherished her deeply, more than anything in the world.

Their parents had tragically passed away in a major disaster in Tokyo back in 2015. Since then, Ayano had been all Haruto had, and they lived together in a small apartment. Thanks to scholarships from an educational foundation, Ayano had been able to continue her studies for the past 10 years.

Miyuki Saegusa, a close friend of their late father, had stepped in to support them during their darkest days, helping meet their daily needs. As the dean of Sakamiya University, Miyuki had been a guiding force in Haruto's life, ensuring he could continue his education despite the tragedy. Just last week, he had completed his final college exams, a milestone made possible by her unwavering support and kindness.

To ease Miyuki's burden, Haruto took on a part-time job at a bookstore near campus. I can’t depend on Miyuki-san all the time. I need to find another way to cover my daily expenses and lighten her load.. he thought. Determined to be more independent, Haruto had resolved to one day repay Miyuki Saegusa’s kindness—a debt of gratitude he carried deeply within his heart.

Today, Haruto dressed in his favorite outfit: a well-fitted navy-blue collared shirt that complemented his lean frame, paired with his Sakamiya University jacket bearing its embroidered ‘S’ logo. He wore classic black slacks and his trusty black-and-white sneakers, scuffed from years of wear but still comfortable. Standing in front of the mirror, he attempted to tame his short, messy black hair. But, as always, no matter how much effort he put in, it remained stubbornly unkempt.

Staring at his reflection, his brown eyes clouded with thought, Haruto felt a wave of uncertainty wash over him. Maybe tomorrow I’ll apply for another part-time job to increase my income. Working two jobs could really help.. he mused. He knew he couldn’t stay idle—he had to keep moving forward, not just for himself, but for Ayano as well.

Today marked a significant moment: his last day of lectures at Sakamiya University. The official graduation ceremony was still three months away, but he could already feel the weight of expectations pressing on his shoulders.

“Everything will be okay.” he told himself.

I’ll land a good, high-paying job. Ayano and I will finally have a better life—a normal family life, even without our parents.. he thought, clinging to hope.

With high determination, he grabbed his bag and umbrella, locked the door to their small apartment, and began his walk toward Sakamiya Station 1.

* * * *

(Back to Present)

DEGRRTTT! DEGEGEKKRRRTT!

BRRAAAAAKKK!!

Suddenly, the train lurched violently, sending a jolt through the passengers. Haruto's hand shot out instinctively, gripping his seat tightly. His heart skipped a beat as he tried to maintain his balance. The air filled with gasps and the sound of passengers losing their balance, desperately grabbing onto seats and nearby handrails to avoid being thrown off.

The lights flickered erratically, casting brief flashes of shadows across the carriage. The news broadcast on the monitors became choppy, distorted as the carriage rattled violently. A harsh mechanical hum from the train's engine filled the air, blending with the rhythmic clattering of the tracks—and then…

CRAAACKK!!

An unsettlingly loud sound of shattering glass echoed through the compartment as one of the train’s windows buckled under stress.

“KYAAA!!!” Several women screamed as the deafening noise of the shuddering train was followed by the sharp sound of cracking glass from the window.

The train began to run slower gradually, the once-violent motion easing as it decelerated… slower.. and slower…

"Oh God, what’s happening!?" a teenage girl cried out, clutching her bag to her chest, her eyes wide with fear. “Are we going to be okay?” she asked again, her voice trembling.

An older man nearby tried to reassure her, though his voice wavered slightly. "I’m sure it’s just a minor issue. The train will start moving again soon."

But as the train came to a complete stop, the tension in the air became almost suffocating. Haruto could hear the murmurs of worry and panic spreading through the car. The situation was unsettling, with the flickering lights casting sporadic shadows across the faces of the passengers. Thankfully, it wasn’t nighttime—some sunlight from the now-clearing skies of Tokyo peeked through the train’s windows, providing just enough light to prevent the carriage from plunging into total darkness.

“This can’t be happening, this can’t be happening...” a young woman whispered to herself, her vacant eyes glued to her phone screen as if in disbelief.

Everyone in the car seemed too afraid to speak aloud, exchanging anxious glances with each other while looking around. The unspoken question seemed to hang heavily in the air: Why today? What is happening today? Are we in danger?

JEDAARR!!

Suddenly, a loud thunderclap roared across the sky, echoing violently. The sound was so close it seemed to strike near the train’s halted position.

“KYAAA!!!” some women shrieked again, their piercing scream filling the car as the thunder rattled the passengers, leaving them visibly shaken.

“This is the end! The gods are punishing us! Oh God, please forgive us!” a man with long hair at the far end of the car shouted dramatically, dropping to his knees in fervent prayer, his voice laced with a sense of impending doom.

The lights flickered even more intensely, casting eerie shadows that danced across the faces of the already frightened passengers, making them appear almost ghostly. Every burst of light seemed to deepen the silence in the car, punctuated only by tense, shallow breaths.

The distorted monitor continued its interrupted broadcast, the anchorwoman’s voice cutting in and out:

“This... ha.. ening… … The authorit... ... the area... dan...erous… st.. ay… a… way… ”

“Are we safe staying on the train?” a middle-aged man asked, his voice filled with anxiety as he nervously glanced around, his eyes darting from person to person, seeking reassurance.

“Maybe we should get off at the next station." someone suggested, their voice tight with fear.

“But they said we need to stay away from Sakamiya University! W-What should we do?” another passenger stammered, their face pale with worry.

Just then, the train jolted again before slowly beginning to move once more. The lights flickered out for several seconds, casting the entire car into brief darkness before sputtering back to life, only to flash sporadically. The monitor, still glitching, showed a garbled image of the news anchor, her voice almost unintelligible: “Mil...ary... forces... arrive... evacu... area... danger...”

Moments later, the train rattled violently, then came to a screeching halt once again. The piercing sound of grinding metal and the hiss of the brakes echoed painfully through the car. “BRAK! KREETTT...!” The sudden stop sent several passengers tumbling from their seats, scrambling to grab onto anything to steady themselves and avoid falling.

“Does this have something to do with that dimensional rift?” someone shouted, their voice quaking with panic.

“Are we in danger?” asked a woman in office attire, her voice shaky as she clutched her bag tightly.

Amid the chaos, Haruto’s phone buzzed again. Unlocking it, he saw a new message from Kanna, even more urgent than before:

“Haruto-kun, where are you? We need you at the campus now. This is extremely important.”

After a tense pause, the lights finally stabilized, and the monitors returned to normal. The train began moving again at a slow, deliberate pace. The news anchor’s voice returned, clear and steady this time, urging everyone to evacuate the Sakamiya University area as the broadcast concluded.

"Once again, we urge the public that police, military, and government officials are already at the scene, with more military units on the way. The Tokyo government has declared a state of emergency in the Sakamiya University area. Please follow all instructions from authorities and stay away from the area. Stay tuned for further updates. Thank you."

The breaking news segment ended, and the screen shifted back to a music video from a popular band, its volume much lower than before.

The train car slowly returned to a semblance of calm, though the tension still hung thick in the air. Haruto could hear anxious murmurs and the occasional frantic phone call around him. "I can’t believe this is happening." a woman mumbled, her voice trembling. "What if the situation gets worse?"

“Well, if the Tokyo government has declared a state of emergency, we’ll have to cancel all our meetings for today." said a man in a crisp suit, speaking into his phone as he informed his colleagues that their business meetings were being postponed.

Another passenger was frantically scrolling through social media, showing viral videos of the phenomenon the news anchor had just reported. “This is crazy! This video went viral in no time—it already has over 500K views!” he said, showing the video to the person beside him, who stared in disbelief. “Look at how massive that dimensional rift is!”

Just then, the train’s intercom buzzed to life, and the conductor’s voice echoed throughout the car.

“Attention, passengers. This is the last train headed to Sakamiya Station 2. After arriving at Sakamiya Station 2, the train will immediately return to Sakamiya Station 1. We strongly advise all passengers to remain on the train and avoid the Sakamiya University area due to the state of emergency declared by the Tokyo government. No further trains will be heading to Sakamiya Station 2 until the situation is resolved and declared safe. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.”

As the train approached Sakamiya Station 2, Haruto’s mind raced with questions, What’s happening at Sakamiya University? A state of emergency declared by the Tokyo government? Why am I needed there so urgently?.. His thoughts spiraled as the weight of the situation pressed down on him.

Is something terrible about to happen?..

Despite the fear and confusion swirling in his mind, one thing remained crystal clear—he had to go to Sakamiya University. No matter the risks, no matter the uncertainty, he needed to find out what was really happening.

* *

Sakamiya Station 2

08:30 AM

The train arrived at Sakamiya 2 Station shortly after. The tension and panic from the earlier frightening moments inside the carriage still lingered. Some passengers were trying to calm themselves, while others remained angry, upset, or visibly shaken with fear.

If the breaking news had been broadcast on the train—a public transport—it was likely being shown in other places as well, across various news channels. Was the situation so dire that breaking news was being broadcast in public spaces and transportation?.. Haruto wondered.

But there was no use in dwelling on questions without answers. Though people were forbidden from approaching Sakamiya University, he had been told to summoned there repeatedly with urgent messages from Kanna. Haruto had already decided to head to Sakamiya University as soon as the train made its full stop at Sakamiya 2 Station. Now, as the train finally halted, the doors were about to open.

Just as he stood up, ready to step forward, suddenly… there was no sound… everything went silent…

So eerily silent…

Haruto glanced around, and to his shock, he found…

All the passengers, objects, everything… had stopped moving. Everyone—every single person—seemed to have stopped breathing. They stood frozen like statues, and the entire station now stood eerily still, as if time itself had come to a halt.

He was shocked..

Not a single sound could be heard…

A chill ran down Haruto’s spine as he realized he was the only one still moving, still breathing, still able to walk. W-What is this? What the hell is happening?.. he thought, heart pounding as he struggled to comprehend the surreal scene. Panic began creeping into his mind.

DEG! DEG! DEG! DEG!

The eerie, deathly silence sharpened all his senses. making each breath short and labored, while his heartbeat thudded loudly in his ears.

Then, slowly, a cold, blue light began to spread, enveloping everything around him. Haruto’s body trembled with an overwhelming sense of discomfort as he realized that ‘something’ was approaching.. fast..

— — — — —