Angelos Odyssey

2 – Number Thirteen-1

2

Number Thirteen

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Raiko

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“The night my folks got killed I didn’t do the right thing. I was scared, like a fuckin’ p***y, and I didn’t get the justice I should’ve. My life has been a load of missteps, but I’m always pushed back to the question of whether or not I’m just a coward.”

Shoto chews on a drumstick absentmindedly; “Hmm,” is his only reply.

“Honestly, though,” I continue, “I don’t want to be scared of anyone. Heaven’s picked me to be a Death Officer—I know it.”

“That’s the spirit.” Shoto leans back with a smile and crosses his arms after taking one last bite. “But you know that it’s normal to be scared, right?”

“Nah. It’s what got them killed...”

Shoto stands up and pats me on the back. “Let’s go, kid. I want you to meet Yashui. There are some things you might be able to learn from him that I can’t teach you.”

After leaving the mess hall, Shotobai starts toward the room he’s rented out on the second floor. Before we get very far, though, he turns around and confronts me.

“About your mom and pops.”

“Yeah?”

“I’m sorry, Raiko. From here on out, your life is going to be one hell of an adventure, and I hope that makes up for it in some way. You don’t need to worry anymore,” Shoto points his thumb at himself, “I’ve got your back.”

“Shoto?”

A woman with pink and blond hair woman rushes down the hallway in our direction.

“Huh?” he turns and immediately chuckles. “Oh, it’s you! How’ve you been, Nimika?”

“I’m great! It’s so good to see you again!” she breathes out hard while trying to catch her breath, then Nimika bows and hugs him.

Shotobai winks at me and says, “Go on ahead to Room 270. Yashui should be happy to meet you!”

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