Urban Legendsーthe flickering flames of campfire stories, whispered secrets passed between friends. Like dust devils swirling across a desert, they rise and fall, captivating imaginations with fantastical yarns. From the chilling myth of the Slit mouth woman to tales of alien encounters and ghostly haunts, each region has its own whispers of the bizarre, passed down through generations. These chilling narratives have spawned countless books and movies, their frights both thrilling and addictive. But beneath their spooky facade, urban legends are often figments of our collective unconscious, woven from the fear of the unseen. As the light of knowledge expands, these legends recede, their hold on our minds loosening with each passing era.
But what many may not realise is that amid the sea of myths and legends, some hold a kernel of truth. Yes, hidden among the countless fabrications lies a select few legends that defy explanation. One such legend is whispered earnestly across the vast expanse of the internet—a tale of a place known as "Avalon." This surreal rumour suggests the existence of a realm populated solely by chosen individuals, a place where knowledge flows freely, where one can shape their destiny, and where the boundaries of learning know no limits. They speak of a place where every particle shimmers with its own unique beauty, where the very atmosphere exudes a captivating charm, and where freedom reigns supreme. It is said to be a world so wondrous and perplexing that one could mistake it for a dream—a place that challenges the very fabric of reality.
These scattered accounts, whispers echoing across the web, paint a picture that strains credulity. A vision of a society untouched, a haven bathed in an ethereal glow, perhaps even a peek into the divine. But reality, as always, holds a surprise. This fabled paradise? It's a school. A notion that might elicit a scoff or an eye roll. Yet, whispers persist of its existence, tucked away in a dimension brushing against our own, accessible only to a select few. The idea is as unbelievable as it is irresistible. “No way!” you scoff. Disbelief is a common reaction. How could such a place exist, veiled from the world's gaze? How has no one stumbled upon its extraordinary presence? These questions ignite the collective imagination, fueling a wildfire of ever more fantastical rumours.
Some claim this enigmatic place is associated with the elusive Illuminati, while others believe it is under the control of a clandestine government conducting secretive experiments. Speculation abounds, giving rise to a new urban legend that slowly takes root within the fertile soil of human imagination.
And so, the cycle of urban legends continues, perpetuated by our insatiable thirst for the extraordinary and the unexplained. While some remain mere figments of our collective fancy, others blur the line between myth and reality, leaving us to ponder the hidden mysteries that lie just beyond the veil of our everyday lives.
But now enough talking about this “Avalon” place.
It’s time for the story to commence…
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あぁぁぁぁ！！！
A blood curdling shriek tore through the night, shattering the tranquillity. A jolt of adrenaline ripped a young man from his slumber. His heart hammered a frantic tattoo against his ribs, each beat a drumbeat in the sudden silence. Sweat slicked his skin despite the cool night air. He threw off the tangled sheets, sleepwear rumpled and his raven black hair a mess. Bare feet slapped against the cool floor as he crept towards the window. Golden eyes, wide with apprehension, scanned the moonlit neighbourhood, searching for the source of the unearthly scream.
“There's nothing here… was it just a dream? Another nightmare…” The young man thought to himself. He went back to his futon, gathering his sheets, he sat on the mattress pondering his situation. “What is this happening to me lately…?” He cursed. His room was dimly lit by the Moon and the street lamps alike. The rays hit the tatami mats of the small studio apartment. It was meant to be a minimalistic space suitable for a student, but it seems this young man mistook minimalism for emptiness since the only articles occupying the floor were the futon and a closed laptop. But this void of a room didn't stem from a lack of interest but the compulsion of cleanliness. The young man in question, was a fool in his teens, almost outgrowing high school. Moonlight reflected off his fair Asian skin while his messy raven black hair absorbed it all. Shining in his own shadow were his august golden eyes. Surrounding them was his sharply cut but at the same time kind looking face. This young man was Yuki, Tachibana Yuki 「橘由生」. If you're wondering, yes, he is as unusual as his name.
“Hey! You're the narrator, you're not supposed to insult me like that! I'm the protagonist!”
No… you're “a” protagonist.
Tachibana Yuki, a figure cloaked in introversion, his voice resembled his face, sharp but kind. Clad in orange, his shirt bore the simple yet profound word 「人間」 [Humans] as a constant reminder of his place in the world.
In this humble abode, amidst the flickering glow of street lamps, Tachibana Yuki navigated the complexities of adolescence, seeking solace and connection within the confines of his modest sanctuary.
✳ ✳ ✳
28th July 2021
トゥルルルルルー
The shrill cry of the alarm on Yuki's bedside cut through the predawn darkness, his clock piercing the quiet with its insistent 6:00 AM alarm. Rubbing his drowsy eyes, he swung his legs out of bed and embarked on his morning routine. With a toothbrush in hand, he vigorously brushed away the remnants of sleep, while also setting some tea on the stove.
A faint scent of Jasmine tea, his Wednesday morning ritual, drifted through the air. He shuffled to the tiny kitchenette, his bare feet cool against the worn wooden floorboards. As the kettle whistled on the stove, Yuki glanced out the window. The small neighbourhood was slowly awakening, a symphony of bicycle bells and distant horns replacing the alarm's call. He poured the steaming tea into his favourite mug, the chipped rim a familiar comfort in his hand. Today, the green tea tasted different, a bitter tang lingering on his tongue. Was it just the tea, or a premonition of what the day might hold? With a sigh, heavier than usual, Yuki took a long sip, “Nothing new.” he thought.
▪▪▪
Yuki entered his classroom a couple minutes before it started. He sat down in his seat which was near the centre of the class and removed his material. As he was shuffling through his bag a photograph glided the wind and fell out flat on the floor. A bittersweet pang shot through Yuki's chest as he bent down to pick up the photo that tumbled out of his bag. It was a snapshot of his younger self, a triumphant grin plastered across his face as he drained a three-pointer on the basketball court. A million memories flooded back - the squeak of sneakers on polished wood, the roar of the crowd even if it was just his friends, the thrill of competition. He traced the faded image of his younger self with a finger, a world away from the introverted boy he'd become. With a sigh, he tucked the photo back into his bag, the worn leather cool against his palm. Slouching in his seat, head propped on his hand, he stared at a blank wall, a storm of emotions brewing within him. “Was that who I used to be?”
“Goooood Mooorninggg” Everyone dragged as they stood up in their seats upon the arrival of the teacher.
“Good morning, everyone!” greeted the teacher with a hint of cheerfulness as she entered the classroom. The familiar routine of settling in for the day began.
“Please be seated.” Miss Nakamura instructed, her voice commanding attention. Before she could proceed with the day's lesson, she paused to make an important announcement. “I have an exciting update for you all.” she declared. “Starting today, we have a new student joining our class. Please come in and introduce yourself.”
A strong gust of wind swished in as the door slid open, following it almost with a fiery jump entered a girl. She was a head smaller than Yuki, but her energy matched that of a magician performing a show, a stark contrast to the usual classroom hum. As she entered the class her brown hair, the colour of autumn leaves, danced around her face like flames in a calm bonfire reaching down till her neck. Her eyes were like that of a Priestess, storm-cloud hazy, that held a hint of hidden knowledge. “Good morning everyone!” She said, her voice was as lush as honey, cheering up everyone from their mundane routine.
Yuki, fascinated by this sudden tang in his monotonic convention, watched with a mix of curiosity and apprehension battling within him, as the girl moved to the front of the class with a mystical confidence, her storm-cloud hazy eyes scanning the classroom, locked eyes with Yuki.
“I am Sasaki Naomi「佐々木直美」,” she began, her gaze, lingering on Yuki's for a beat too long, held the secrets of a brewing storm. A hint of a smile played on her lips as she said, "I'll be joining you all from today." A ripple of nervous excitement ran through some students as Naomi leaned in slightly, her voice dropping to a covert whisper. “I'm looking forward to making new friends... especially some who might share a certain... curiosity about the world.” The last part hung in the air, a challenge veiled in a friendly smile.
Applause filled the room as everyone welcomed Naomi to the class. “I hope you all will assist her in acclimating to our school and make good friends with her.” Said Miss Nakamura. Yuki's eyes briefly met Naomi's again. For a fleeting moment, he couldn't help but feel a tinge of admiration. She landed him a smile and his self-doubt quickly overshadowed any chance of pursuing a connection.
You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.
“She is cute… a lot of guys will be already behind her. She’s way out of everyone here’s league. She must have a boyfriend already… yeah. Why do I even care… it's not like I'm even going to be friends with her. I should pay attention to the class.” He thought
“So continuing with our history lessons, today we will be learning about the Hashashins and their downfall.” said Miss Nakamura.
“Huh... looks like I’ll just complete my sleep... I’ve played “Eliminator's Cult” so many times that I know about Hashashins more than the teacher... haha…” he thought.
The teacher continued teaching and Yuki showed no interest in the lecture and just completed his dear sleep…
Or so he thought, despite his attempts to fall asleep even after being bored, he just couldn’t, there was this ominous feeling surrounding him, as if someone’s gazing at him…
▪▪▪
As the school bell chimed, signalling the start of the lunch break, Yuki jolted awake, realising he had slept through three consecutive classes.
“Three classes? How did I manage that?” he muttered to himself, somewhat surprised at his own ability to sleep through the morning. “I don't even know which lectures took place.”
Feeling the pangs of hunger, Yuki decided to head to the school canteen for a quick meal. He purchased some Tamogo Kake Gohan「卵かけご飯」, a Japanese dish made by mixing raw egg with rice, the most affordable food option available. He settled into a secluded corner, engrossed in a novel titled “Methods of Survival” that had caught his interest during one of his random online browsing sessions.
Lost in the world of words, Yuki was interrupted by a familiar voice that broke through the pages of his book. He looked up to find Naomi, the new transfer student, standing before him.
“Hey there! How are you?” She asked cheerfully.
“Uhh, good? Until now at least.” Yuki replied, startled.
“Are you eating alone?” she inquired.
“Yeah… why?” Yuki hesitated.
“Oh, good. Mind if I sit here?” She asked.
“No?” Yuki denied.
Naomi's smile widened. "Thank you! I thought you would refuse!" Purposely mistaking Yuki's denial for him not minding it, she pulled up a chair and settled down next to him.
“Wait butー”
“Yes?”
“Uhh, never mind. Why do you even want to sit here?” Yuki asked.
Curiosity shone in Naomi's eyes, “You held eye contact with me for pretty long earlier, most boys would look away immediately. And then you slept through 3 lectures straight. You've managed to pique my interest.”
Yuki sighed, averting his gaze back to his book. “I'm the epitome of inversion. I won't be enough to entertain you.”
Naomi, undeterred, responded, "Oh my, that wasn't the kind of response I expected. Now you have me even more curious.”
“Why are you evenー” Yuki was interrupted.
“Look at me, not the book.”
“Huh?”
“I said look at me and not the book. You're talking to me, right?”
“I guess you're right. As I was saying, why are you even interested in me? There are other interesting characters in the class, go talk to them.”
Naomi chuckled. “Oh, yes, there are, but none of them have managed to sleep through three classes straight, hehe.”
Realising her observation, Yuki retorted, “I see. So you're one of those observant ones.”
Naomi grinned playfully. “No, I'm not.”
“No wonder I felt a strange gaze over me. She's cute, but she's also strange. Dealing with odd people isn't my cup of tea. I'd rather not engage with her.” Yuki thought to himself.
“You know what, I need to refill my water. So if you can just wait here.” Yuki said, getting up from his seat.
“Yeah, but don't run away.” Naomi replied.
“Sure. I won't run away.” Yuki affirmed.
He ran away.
He ran away the moment he got out of Naomi's sight. “一Tsk, what a weirdo, I clearly don’t want to interact with these people, I'll just go on the terrace and read my novel…”
▪▪▪
On the breezy terrace of the three-story school, sat Yuki, a sixteen-year-old boy who preferred solitude. With a book in hand, he sought solace and tranquillity, finding refuge in the world of literature. Yuki was introspective by nature, capable of engaging in conversations when necessary, but he often chose to abstain from them, considering them a futile expenditure of time and energy. He found little value in casual interactions, perceiving them as lacking substance or meaningful connections.
His love for books was profound, and he had delved into countless literary adventures, primarily through the vast expanse of the internet. With limited financial resources, physical books were a luxury, so he resorted to reading pirated copies online. The internet became his sanctuary, a realm where he could escape from the burdens of reality. However, Yuki understood that no matter how far he ventured into the digital realm, reality would always find a way to catch up with him. “The boundary between escapism and reality was never truly impermeable.” He thought.
The school bell dragged him back to class. As he settled into his usual seat at the back, his gaze met Naomi's across the room. Her smile faltered, a flicker of annoyance replacing it. “Right”, he thought sheepishly, “I had stood her up”. The rest of the day passed in a blur, and with the final bell, students streamed out of the school. Yuki was about to follow suit when a voice cut through the din.
“HOLD ON!” Naomi's voice rose above the crowd, her face flushed. “WHERE ARE YOU GOING? STOP!”
Yuki quickened his pace, hoping to disappear into the throng of students.
“DON'T IGNORE ME!” Naomi persisted, her voice growing louder. “WE'RE NOT FINISHED!”
He gritted his teeth, determined to maintain his invisibility.
“ANSWER ME, YOU FOOL! WE HAVEN'T FINISHED OUR TALK!” Naomi was practically sprinting to catch up with him.
She finally reached him, her voice laced with exasperation. “DON'T YOU DARE IGNORE ME!” she shouted inches from his ear.
Yuki remained silent, his gaze fixed on a point beyond her shoulder.
Naomi huffed in frustration. “HMPH! FINE! I'll let you go this time, since I have things to do.” she muttered. “But I'll see you tomorrow. Don't even think about ditching me again!”
“It's not wise to torment your fellow classmates in a school you just transferred to... And as for tomorrow, don't waste your time trying to find me.”
Naomi blinked, surprised by his sudden response. “Who's tormenting anyone? We just… had unfinished business.”
“We never even started anything,” Yuki countered. “Now, please, just leave me alone.”
Naomi crossed her arms, a hint of defiance in her eyes. “Fine. But tomorrow, we're talking. No excuses!” With a final glare, she turned and walked away.
Yuki watched her go, a wave of relief washing over him. “Hopefully, never again,” he murmured, a hint of longing contradicting his words.
▪▪▪
Yuki slipped into a well-worn t-shirt and sweatpants, his usual uniform for retreating into his world. He dove back into his novel, but the words seemed to blur together. An image of Naomi's persistent frown flashed across his mind, followed by a pang of something… unfamiliar. Was it annoying? Intrigue? He pushed the thought away, forcing his focus back on the page.
The familiar sounds of “Counter Attack: Condition Worse” filled the room, but even the explosions and gunfire couldn't drown out the disquiet stirring within him. He quit the game in frustration, the silence pressing down on him. He sank onto his futon, staring at the blank wall. With a sigh, he reached for his phone, a subconscious urge to escape the echo of Naomi's voice.
He opened an old video titled “State Championship: Final Game.” A younger Yuki, filled with nervous energy, bounced the ball on the court. He used to crave the camaraderie of the team, the roar of the crowd. A sharp twinge of nostalgia pierced him, followed by a dull ache of… loss? He closed the video abruptly, the past a jarring intrusion into his carefully constructed solitude.
Something had shifted. Naomi's unexpected arrival had cracked a small fissure in his carefully constructed world, and a sliver of unease gnawed at him. He couldn't explain it, but the thought of tomorrow, of facing her again, sent a tremor through him.
<1 - Birth of the CruxーEpisode 1 - Fin>