 
The Magical Girl is a Boy

The Magical Girl is a Boy 1

By Pedoro Pedoro

Copyright © 2019 Pedoro Pedoro

Cover art © 2019 Ysis Cobra

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, locales, and incidents either are the products of the author's imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

Table of Content

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Epilogue

Afterword

Chapter 1

_I'm finally back... Back to the town where I almost died_ , Chidō Ken thought as he looked out his bedroom window. _It doesn't feel like much changed_...

He put the bag down on the bed and looked around. The room was cleaned and organized. _Mom... It's been almost year already since I've been here, but she kept ready for when I'd wake from the coma and come back... she knew I would_...

He touched the scar on his chest, the eternal reminder of the accident. It was throbbing slightly. _It's all in your head_ , Ken said to himself. _It's in the past now..._

As he unpacked the bag, the boy did his best to avoid thinking about the accident. But whenever he looked out the window and saw the only mountain in the town, he couldn't help but relive that day.

Almost a year ago, Ken was at the temple, playing with Ren, when there was an earthquake. Though it wasn't strong, it caused a landslide. He was buried by some rocks and went in a coma. He had only woken a couple months ago.

_At least Ren wasn't hurt... If anything had happened to him_...

When Ken thought of his best friend, he couldn't help but smile.

_Wonder how he's doing now... I bet he's even cuter... He hated when I called him cute... when he got mad, it was even cuter... I couldn't help but tease him even more_.

Little by little, his smile faded. Along with it, came a tug at his heart. _I haven't talked to him ever since the accident. He could've at least called me... I'm sure my mom told his parents_...

_I wanna see him. I wanna hear his voice again,_ he thought, lying down on the bed and closing his eyes, hoping he would dream of Ren.

"Son, did you finish unpacking?" his mother's voice woke him.

"Yeah," he answered, rubbing his eyes. "Do you need any help?"

"Thanks but I'm almost done. Could you go buy groceries? Grandpa has nothing."

"I eat out on days like this," the old man complained from the living room, loud enough for Ken to hear.

"Yeah, mom. No problem."

_Better than staying here doing nothing... or hear grandpa complaining 'cause mom won't let him do anything. And I can choose what we have for dinner. It's been too long since I had curry_.

_With any luck, I might run into Ren_. The idea made him smile.

Ken put his coat and left his grandfather's old-style mansion, heading to the nearby supermarket.

To his surprise, even after a year, his legs knew where to take him. On the way, he passed by the candy store he and his friends went at least once a week after school. _I can't believe that granny still sits outside drinking tea like that... isn't too cold this time of the year?_

Ken couldn't help but make a little detour before the supermarket, sniggering as he remembered how his mother complained when he stuffed himself with candy before dinner _. Since we're having our favorite meal tonight, hope she forgives me_.

By the time he got back, his mother had finished unpacking and now was cleaning, so Ken offered to make dinner.

With the woman tired from the move, and the old man sullen because his daughter didn't let him help at all, it was a silent meal. _It's like I'm eating at the hospital again..._

"H-hey, grandpa. When you get better, I need you to train me again," Ken tried to start a conversation. "I've been sleeping for too long."

"No problem... The kids these days are too soft. They complain whenever I push a little more. Even the cops who train here." Despite shaking his head in disapproval, the old man was much happier than he had been the entire afternoon. "Hope you just don't use that as excuse to slack off!"

"It's not an excuse, dad. He almost died!" his mother shouted. There was a long silence as she closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "I'm sorry for screaming. Son, you've just been discharged. I know they said you could train like before, but take it easy... please. And dad, not only you're sick, you hurt your back. If you don't rest, that injury will get worse and you won't be able to train anyone."

After that, there was no more conversation.

When Ken finished the meal, he wanted to get out of the house.

"Don't come back too late," his mother said.

"Okay..."

The moment he closed the door, he let out a sigh. _Mom didn't have to scream like that... I know it must've been hard for her. With me at the hospital and the move, but I'm all better now... the worst is over_...

As he walked around the neighborhood, he couldn't help but laugh. _That rosebush! I remember when Ryuu and I were playing and hit it with a ball... The old lady who lives here got so mad... Mom grounded me for a week. Even Ren and Shun got an earful, even though they did nothing_.

_Wonder how everyone's doing... Do they still hang out together like we used to? We didn't spend a day apart... even on weekends, we played together_. Ken flashed a tiny smile.

It doesn't feel to me, but we haven't talked in so long... I wanna see them... I wanna play games at Shun's... hell, I wanna even have those stupid fights with Ryuu again...

But most of all, I wanna see Ren again...

He stopped under a streetlight, looking at the ground. _Maybe they changed... While I was in a coma, time didn't stop... they've lived for a whole year without me... I can't just assume everything will be like the old days just because I'm back... I don't even know if they're still friends_...

The idea pained him more than he imagined.

Ken looked up at the mountain where the only temple in the town was, where Ren lived. _I'm a coward... 'With any luck, I might run into Ren'... but I could just go over to his house and see him_...

Ken knew why. _I'm afraid. I'm afraid he doesn't wanna be my friend anymore..._

_If I hadn't suggested going to his house that day, his sister and I wouldn't have gotten hurt_... Pressing his lips, the boy punched the wall, trying to get rid of the frustration.

As his hand throbbed, he made up his mind. _Even if I'm a coward afraid of what my best friend will say, I need to see Ren. I wanna... I wanna_...

With his face red, Ken finished the thought. _I wanna_ _confess to him..._

The idea was enough to make his heart thump faster. Even so, he couldn't stop smiling as the words echoed in his head. _I can't believe I only realized I liked him after the coma... If I had known back then, who knows what could've been different_...

_No... I shouldn't be thinking 'what if'. I need to look to the future... a future with him by my side_...

With Ren's face in his mind, Ken forced himself to walk. But even with his mind made, he couldn't stop the nostalgia.

_I used to wait for Ren here every day so we could go to school together. I was usually late, but whenever I got here first, I couldn't stop rubbing on his face he made me wait. He looked too cute when he got mad_.

With effort, Ken walked away from the nostalgia. _We'll make more memories. As... boyfriends..._ The word made his cheeks red.

As he got closer to the temple, he stopped again; it was too cold.

No matter how much he pulled the hoody closer or rubbed his hands together, he couldn't stop trembling. _I know it's still March but it shouldn't be this cold..._

His breathing became faster and shallower. Ken could see his breath before his eyes. Then his instincts told him; that freezing sensation crushing him wasn't just the normal cold from the end of winter.

_There's something... I can feel it_...

With his head dizzy, he leaned against a tree and took deep breaths. The air was so cold it hurt his dry throat. But he ignored the pain. _I need to calm down..._

When everything stopped spinning, he exhaled slowly. Ken searched for the source of that oppressing cold sensation. He found nothing. No one nor anything.

There was only him on that deserted street.

The martial artist honed his senses, just like he had done many times in countless training. _Too bad I'm out of shape,_ he thought, cracking a smile despite the situation.

Without closing his eyes, Ken closed his fists as hard as he could. Then opened, relaxing his hands. At the same time, he breathed out, letting his awareness expand.

At the edge of his vision, hidden in the shadows, was the source of that freezing sensation threatening to suffocate him.

His body went numb. He forgot to breathe.

Whatever was lurking nearby, was dangerous. All his instincts warned him so.

The scar on chest throbbed so much Ken almost fainted. _It's just your imagination! Don't let this paralyze you now_!

Gritting his teeth, he dragged himself along the wall to the opposite direction.

Before he could get away, whatever caused the oppressing sensation noticed him. Even without looking, he could sense that evil cold moving the heavy body. Towards him.

A shiver went down his spine. _I can't get away,_ he realized; his legs were too numb to run.

Ken looked over his shoulder. There was nothing. Even so, he could still hear it.

His scar ached even more, and his body refused to obey. _Shit... I need to get a grip! To get the hell out of here_!

Ken forced his body to take another step. At the same time, he took deep breathes to lessen the pain, but it made no difference. The throbbing became worse. Soon he was panting and clutching his chest.

The evil presence was even closer, the cold fingers closing around his throat. And yet he still couldn't see what it was.

In a few seconds, whatever it was would be standing right behind him.

_Then what_...?

Ken didn't want to think. He didn't have time for that. He had to get away.

But before he could take another step, the presence loomed behind him.

With his breathing erratic and painful, he turned around, ready to fight.

There was nothing.

_What_...?

He could sense it. It was right before him.

But even under the street light, there was nothing.

The next moment, a shiver ran through his body; whatever it was would attack.

_Shit_!

Without thinking, Ken ignored the pain and jumped out of the way.

A second later, a gash appeared on the wall.

Another shiver, and the martial artist rolled on the ground. There was a loud crash and then a hole where he was.

His entire body trembled, and it had nothing to do with the cold.

_This feeling..._ Though it was the first time he sensed it, he knew what it was. _Killing intent... bloodthirst..._

Despite the pain on his chest and the almost paralyzing fear numbing his mind, Ken knew he had to do something. _I have no idea what's attacking me, but it'll kill me if I do nothing!_

Ignoring the dry throat, the martial artist took deep breaths as he stood up.

As he concentrated, little by little, Ken discerned the shape of the transparent thing emitting such freezing sensation and killing intent.

Though he couldn't see it clearly, it only made him more afraid.

_What the hell is that_...?

Even with only the edges visible, the thing had a grotesque and deformed humanoid shape. With over 3 meters in both size and length, it had more arms than it should, with joints in strange places, allowing the members to bend in the wrong places.

When one of the transparent fists came towards his head, Ken got out of the way.

His body was still numb. But as he dodged the deadly blows, the blood rushed through his veins, warming him up. It was enough to make him forget about the aching scar.

Right now, there was no room in his mind for pain; there was only his survival.

_Only dodging won't help_...

The moment the chance appeared, Ken ran away.

A jolt coursed through his body and he stopped.

A moment later, the thing brought one of its many jointed arms down, destroying the ground where Ken would be if he hadn't stopped.

Before the martial artist could move around it, the thing blocked his path with more arms.

With no other option, Ken faced the invisible enemy, the cold sweat drenching his clothes. _That thing's not letting me get away... And I can't avoid it forever_.

When the grotesque transparent shadow attacked again, he bent his body and moved his head out of the way. With all the strength he had at the moment, he punched the arm.

_Gross,_ he thought when the fist connected with the soft limb. _It's like a dense mud..._

But Ken didn't care. Not after he heard the screech of pain coming from the thing.

"Not so fun when I hit you back, huh?"

Whether it was the punch or the taunt, Ken didn't know, the monster sounded angrier.

As it pulled the punched limb back, it attacked with two others.

Ken jumped to the side to avoid.

A third arm was heading to where he would be.

_Crap!_ With no time to avoid, all the martial artist could do was cross the arms to protect his head and brace himself to the impact.

The punch that could break concrete smashed against him, sending him across the street.

His body exploded in pain when he hit the tree. Ken lost all the air in his lungs, his mind on the edge of fainting.

_Damn it... I knew it'd be bad... if I got hit... by one of those punches... but to think... that thing would be... this strong_ , the boy though, trying to maintain his consciousness.

Just breathing was hard and painful. Even so, he forced himself to stand up. _I can't waste any second... I'll die if I'm hit again..._

_I won't die until I confess to Ren!_ He prepared himself for the next blow, raising his numb arms.

But it never came.

Despite seeing double, Ken could tell the grotesque blurred outlines of the monster had stopped paying attention to him.

The monster had turned around, its many arms moving threateningly in the air. But it never attacked.

Closing one eye, Ken glanced in the same direction. The thing's new target almost made him forget the dangerous situation he was in.

Standing on top of a tree, looking down on the monster, was a girl.

She wasn't just one of the most beautiful girls Ken had ever seen.

The martial artist could sense her aura of strength. _She's strong._

The girl was dressed in untainted white priestess vests that contrasted with her shining golden hair. With removable white sleeves tied by yellow strings, a yellow miniskirt, and white stockings with yellow bows and a lotus flower jewel on it.

But the most stunning feature was her golden bright eyes.

Even the moon seemed pale compared to them.

_Amazing_...

Even if Ken had no interest, even he knew what she was.

_A magical girl,_ he thought, completely mesmerized.

He knew it shouldn't be possible. Magical girls only existed in anime and manga. His younger siblings watched one show every Sunday.

And yet the martial artist could not deny the stunning girl on top of the tree was anything other than a magical girl.

"Pitiful existence born out of twisted feelings," she said as she jumped down. "I'll release you from that pain."

The magical girl seemed to float in the air. She twirled her hand and out of nowhere, a short stick with a heart shaped top with wings on each side appeared.

When she was within its reach, the monster tried to attack with all its arms at once.

With a confident smile, the magical girl held the stick with both hands. A yellow blinding light shone from her stick and blocked all the punches. When she was close enough, she swung her weapon at the monster's head.

The grotesque shadowy monster screeched and waved its arms in every direction. But it made no difference.

The random attacks never reached the magical girl.

With an amazing grace, she landed. Without wasting a second, she twirled and kicked the ground, flying towards the monster.

With another flash, the magical girl blocked all the arms and jumped. With light footsteps, she seemed to fly towards the sky.

When gravity acted, she brought her magical stick down with a strength that didn't match her slim and delicate arms.

The grotesque monster couldn't avoid nor block the attack. The weapon smashed against its head, and all it could do was let out another screech of pain.

Despite barely seeing it, Ken could tell the monster was crumbling on itself. Then it vanished as it let out a last scream.

The magical girl landed gracefully with a delicate step. With the face of someone who had only done her job flawlessly, she stared at the place the monster had disappeared.

"Can't believe... it was just like the other... are you sure?" she mumbled to herself. Then after a few moments of silence, she sighed. "Yeah... guess you're right..."

Ken still had trouble breathing. Even so, he walked to the magical girl.

"Who... are... you...?"

Only then she finally noticed the boy. "So the Echo was targeting someone... I should've gotten here sooner," she mumbled, more to herself than to the boy, still not facing him. "I know... But why didn't the talisman work on him?"

As Ken got closer, the magical noticed he was hurt.

She helped him stand. As she ran a gentle hand on his back, she sighed in relief. "Thank goodness the wound is not that bad... Even I can treat something like this."

She placed her delicate fingers over his wound and a warmth flowed into the boy.

The pain went away. But Ken wasn't paying attention to his wounds anymore.

He only had eyes for the magical girl. _She's the most beautiful girl I've ever seen_...

The boy didn't know why, but there was something nostalgic on that girl.

As the warmth filled him, that sensation only grew.

"There. All better," she said with a kind smile.

Ken's heart thumped.

Only then he recognized the magical girl. Despite the long blond hair, the golden eyes, and the clothes, the girly features remained the same.

Ken could never forget that beautiful smile.

The smile he wanted to see the most ever since he woke from the coma.

It belonged to the most important person to him. The person whom he couldn't spend one day apart without missing. The person he wanted to see the most.

The boy he wanted to confess his feelings.

"Ren..." The moment he said the name, Ken couldn't stop smiling.

No matter how he dressed, the magical girl was none other than his best friend, Tendō Ren.

The boy in skirt froze. Then the surprise spread on his face. But it only lasted a moment, replaced by a light embarrassment.

"Ken... it's been a while," he said in a low voice, his cheeks a shade of pink, his smile growing.

After a long time without even talking each other, Ken was finally reunited with his best friend and his first love.

The fact that the boy had become a magical girl who fought grotesque monsters mattered little.

Ken was too happy to see him.

Before he could stop himself, the martial artist hugged the magical girl.

"I missed you so much," he said, embracing the boy tighter.

The next second, Ren wrapped his arms around his best friend.

"I missed you too," the magical girl said, the tears rolling down his cheeks.

Chapter 2

When Ken opened his eyes, he was on his bed. He tried to move but his head was heavy and his back aching. With some effort, he sat up and rubbed his eyes.

_When did I get home...? How did I get home_...?

Ken forced his mind to recall what happened last night but his memories were too hazy. _I went out after dinner for... for some reason... and then... and then_... He closed his eyes, concentrating _. I got in a fight with someone...?_

_Was that it...? It doesn't sound right... but it does explain why my back hurts... Ah, damn it. I'm so out of shape_...

The boy knew there was something important he was forgetting; it was right there, at the edge of his mind but no matter how much he tried, he couldn't remember.

_Damn it... Hope I remember it soon... I know it was important,_ Ken thought, wincing as he got out of bed and went to the wardrobe.

_It's been so long... I used to wake up early and train everyday... No wonder I got hurt in a fight yesterday_.

The martial artist stared his training uniform for a while. With a smile, the boy noticed it was recently cleaned. _Despite what mom says, she does this..._

_She told me to take easy, but the doctor said I could train like I used to... I need to make up for the time lost_...

As he put on his gear with some difficulty due to the pain, the boy heard noises coming from the dojo inside the property. _Grandpa is training... Mom's gonna be so mad when she finds out... I know he doesn't like when we treat him like an old man, but he needs to understand he got hurt and shouldn't push himself too much for a while_.

_Even if I say, it's not like he's gonna listen_... Ken let out a sigh and headed to the dojo.

Without making any noise, he erased his presence and sneaked inside.

The current head of the Chidō style was sitting on the floor, wearing the same training clothes as the grandson. His breathing was deep and slow, and the sweat ran down his neck. He got up and exhaled through the nose. Then he did the first form of the Chidō style.

Despite the age, his speed was amazing; he looked nothing of the old man who was sick and hurt while training.

Before he could finish the form, however, he coughed and stopped in the middle of a punch. Wincing and with his arms trembling, he placed the hand on the back. Then he cursed.

"How long are you gonna stand in there? Hurry up and get in." The old man turned to Ken, and took the hand off his back.

The boy flashed a wry smile. _He noticed me in a second... I used to be good at this_...

"Grandpa, you should be resting," he said in a low voice, walking to his grandfather's side. "You know mom's gonna lecture you..."

The old man clicked his tongue then snorted. "I've been waking up at this hour to train even before Sayaka was born. Staying on bed for no reason is bad for my health," he boomed in his deep voice.

Ken held back a sigh. _How many times did he and mom have this argument_?

"It's not for no reason. You're sick and injured. If you keep forcing, you might get even worse," he reminded. "At least wait until you're feeling better."

"I'm fi—"

In the middle of the sentence, the elderly man bent forward and coughed hard into his hand.

Ken raced to his side, rubbing his back.

"You might be right..." The frustration was plain in his voice. He grabbed Ken arm and used the boy as support. "I've trained enough for today anyway..."

With the help of his grandson, he walked to the double door on the side of the dojo and sat on the porch, taking deep breaths as a breeze passed. "Thanks, Ken. Now go train. Don't let this old man get in your way."

"Grandpa, isn't better if you—"

"Go."

After that tone, Ken knew there was nothing he could say. He preferred his grandfather returned to bed and rested, but he knew how stubborn the old man could be.

_People, mainly mom, do say I inherited his stubbornness_ , the boy thought as he walked to the middle of the dojo. _Wonder if I'm really that much like him_?

Ken stood there for a moment, shaking his limbs to loosen them a bit. _What the hell... why do I feel nervous? I'm just gonna train a little. Just because it's my first training..._ Ignoring the feeling, he started with a light warm-up and stretch routine. That was how he did it every day for as long as he could remember before the accident.

When his body was warmed enough, he went through a few basic techniques from the Chidō style. Despite remembering the movements without any trouble, his speed was nowhere near the one from his memory.

_I know my condition isn't the same as a year ago, but to think I've dropped to this level... I can't even use the pain from yesterday's fight as an excuse_...

The boy exhaled all the air through his mouth. _I knew that already. I've already lost a year of my life. I can't waste a single second thinking about what I can't change_!

Under the supervision of his grandfather, Ken did his best without pushing his body too much. But no matter how much he tried, even sick, older and more experienced martial artist noticed when a shot of pain ran through his back.

"When did you get hurt?" he asked in a sharp voice.

Ken stopped in the middle of a kick, bringing the leg down. "So you noticed," the boy said in a sheepish voice, not looking at grandfather.

Despite not impairing any movement, the pain was bothering.

"I'm sick, not blind. What happened?"

"I honestly don't remember. I... got in a fight yesterday, but I don't remember getting hurt..."

As he rubbed the wound, something poked at the back of his mind.

_A warmth... a warmth that made me feel better..._ No matter how much he tried, he couldn't remember the source of that sensation. But he knew one thing; he shouldn't have forgotten.

_Shit... I hate this... Like it's right there, at the edge of my memory, but I can't recall what it is_...

The older martial artist stared at his grandson for a while.

"Better you take care of that, boy." He had a hint of smug on his face as he stood up. "Why don't you go meet that friend of yours? You know, that old hag's grandkid... What was his name? Ren?"

The moment he heard the name, Ken felt a jolt coursing through his body.

That single word, which was so nostalgic and made his heart thump faster, triggered his memories.

Everything from last night, from the moment he was attacked by the grotesque transparent shadowy monster to his conversation with Ren still in his magical girl form, came back to his mind at once.

The older martial artist looked at his grandson for a moment before leaving the dojo with a satisfied expression.

Ken barely noticed; he was too busy sorting the real memories from the fake ones through the pain.

_Ren... he did this... he changed my memory_ , the martial artist realized, putting both hands on his head, taking deep breaths to make the dizziness go away. _He made me think I got in a fight with some random delinquents... and after I won, I went home... and never saw him_...

Ken clicked his tongue. _Damn it, Ren... you shouldn't have done that. I know you want to keep me safe and out of that world, but you shouldn't have changed my memories... especially when you're involved_...

As the pain in his head lessened, Ken made sure he recalled everything.

***

"I missed you too," Ren said, crying as he hugged his friend.

Ken embraced tighter. He never wanted to let that boy go. But he had to.

When they broke the hug, the cross-dressing boy took a step back, cleaning the tears from his face.

Ken looked the magical girl from head to toe. Before he knew what he was doing, he took a lock of that long and silky blond hair out of Ren's face.

"You look even cuter than before," he said with a huge smile, his heart thumping louder.

"Shut up," Ren mumbled, looking away as he clutched the hem of his yellow miniskirt. "A boy doesn't get happy hearing that..."

Despite his words, the magical girl tried to suppress a smile while twirling the same lock of hair his friend had touched.

Ken couldn't help but grin and blush at that sight. _Seeing him like this only confirms my feelings... I love with him..._

_I thought he was just cuter, but I'm wrong... he's... he's... the cutest boy in the world_...

Now he out of danger, the martial artist took a better look at Ren's clothes.

It wasn't just a modified priestess outfit. The lotus flower jewel accessories here and there, along with the yellow sparkling high heels and his hairstyle, truly gave him the look of a magical girl.

_I can't believe he's wearing something like this... His sisters and I could push him into dressing like a girl from time to time, but if we insisted too much, he'd snap and storm out_ , Ken recalled, smiling even more. _But no matter how much we tried, we could never make him wear the priestess' clothes. He only put it on when his family needed help at the shrine during holidays_.

"W-what...?"

When Ren noticed the long stare, he tried to cover himself with his slender arms. At the same time, he pressed his legs, wrapped in the pure white stocking with a yellow bow and a lotus flower jewel, together.

It was the same as nothing. Ken could still see all his childhood friend's cuteness, making him blush even more. _Damn it, Ren! Stop being so cute! I'm already in love with you! My heart won't be able to handle anymore!_

"I never thought I'd see the day you'd wear something like this," the martial artist managed to say, flashing a goofy smile. "It suits you so much it's not fair."

"Shut up! I'm not dressed like this because I want!" Ren shouted, his face an alarming shade of red as he half turned his body.

Ken had to cover his growing smile when he saw the familiar reaction. _How many times he reacted like this when I said he looked cute?_

_Ah, damn... I'm gonna end up confessing to him right now_...

As Ren fidgeted, the magical stick shone under the streetlight. Ken stopped smiling. _This isn't time for me to confess._

"Ren. What was that thing you defeated?" he asked in a serious voice, looking at where the diffused shaped of the monster had vanished. "Are you really a magical girl like in the anime?"

The cheeks of the boy in skirt returned to its normal color. He pressed his lips and lowered his head.

"The proper term is Onmyōji... We're exorcist... but I guess you could call me that... Knowing you, you're gonna do that anyway," he said in a dry and low voice, flashing a wry smile. "But I'm not a girl... even though I'm dressed like this..."

"You're right." Ken smiled again, thinking. "Then I'm gonna call you a magical girly boy... it fits you better. Because I know you're not a girl. You're a boy. A really cute and cool boy," he said, looking into Ren's eyes.

The magical girly boy smiled back, his cheeks a shade of pink again as he let a dry chuckle.

"You're one of the few who ever treated me like a boy no matter how I dressed." Ren hugged his best friend again. "I missed you."

Ken's heart pounded louder, his face an alarming shade of red. _Damn it, Ren! Why are you trying to make me confess to you right now? I'm not ready yet_!

When they pulled apart, Ken took deep breaths. _I need to focus... I can't get carried away by his cuteness... no matter how much I want to be his boyfriend_...

With great effort, he managed to put his feelings aside.

"Since when you've been fighting those monsters? What are those monsters, anyway? Do you fight them every night? Isn't that dangerous? Are you hurt? Did you ever get hurt? Are you wearing panties? How did you become a magical girly boy? Does anyone know about this?"

"Hey, one of those questions had nothing to do with this!" Ren shouted, his cheeks red again.

The magical girly boy's embarrassment went away when he realized his childhood friend was serious.

"I'm sorry you got involved with this again. I'm happy to see you though. I really am. But I don't wanna see you get hurt because of this ever again," Ren said in a low voice, placing a hand on Ken's cheek. "You have no idea how much I missed you."

"I missed you too..."

Ken gently placed his hand over Ren's. The warmth from those delicate fingers made his heart lighter. But when he looked into the boy's eyes, he realized his childhood friend was fighting back the tears.

"Wait... why are you talking like weren't gonna see each other again...?" he asked in a panicky voice.

The magical girly boy never answered. The sad smile and the tears were the last thing Ken recalled.

_Everything's kinda blurred after that_ , the boy thought, trying to force his memory beyond that point. _Ren must've used some magical girly boy's magic to modify my memory_...

Ken thought for a moment, but he couldn't decide if it made him happy or mad.

_I'm glad he still cares about me_. That put a smile on his face. _Ren knew I'd never leave him do that dangerous thing alone anymore._

_But to think he'd go as far as erasing our reunion and making it sound like we'd never see each other again... that's unacceptable... there's no way I'd want that... Even if I wasn't in love with him, we're best friends_...

_I almost died, but what I remember most from our reunion is his crying face... I don't wanna see that expression ever again... I've had enough of that_...

One of Ken's scarce memories of the day of the accident was Ren next to him, crying and apologizing again and again.

_I wanna see him happy. I wanna make him happy. And embarrassed! I wanna make him both blushing and smiling for the rest of our lives_!

Even with the pain on his head completely gone, Ken's mind was heavy. He tried to train a little more but soon gave up; he could only think of Ren to do any decent training.

After a quick bath, Ken made breakfast for him, his mother, and grandfather. Without waiting for them, he ate alone. After cleaning his dishes, the martial artist headed to Ren's family's shrine at the mountain.

_I know it's early, but if I hurry up, I might catch him before he goes to school_...

As he passed by the same street as the other night, he stopped.

_It's like that supernatural fight never happened_ , Ken thought as he checked the place.

There were no holes nor gashes on the ground or the wall. The slight dent on the trunk of the tree he smashed against was the only trace of the fight.

_Did Ren do this or is it like in the magical girl shows where everything gets fixed after the fight_?

He wondered as he ran a hand where was a gash on the wall last night. But he knew he wouldn't reach an answer by himself and left.

Soon Ken reached the stones steps leading to the temple. He stopped before the bottom step and looked up.

_The stair is still big, but it looks smaller than I remember_...

Even so, Ken couldn't place his foot on that first step. Just the thought of doing that made his breathing go out of control.

_What's... going...on...? I've climbed... theses stairs... countless times_...

He put a hand over the scar on his chest. It was throbbing again.

With a strange feeling, Ken finally realized. _That accident... It wasn't a landslide due to an earthquake... It had something to do with a monster like yesterday... That's why Ren said he didn't want me involved again_...

_It was one of those monsters who almost killed me a year ago_...

He closed his eyes and thought back of that day, trying to recall anything else.

As always, all he could remember was the pain and Ren crying and apologizing. But as he forced, he remembered something more; Ren and Ran screaming. That was all.

_I know there's more,_ Ken thought, forcing his mind.

Little by little, he remembered something else. A voice that he knew too well.

"I'll protect you, Ken... No matter what, I'll protect you!" his best friend was shouting while crying.

_Ren tried to protect me from something... he and his sister_...

Ken couldn't help but smile _... Even when we were brats, he protected me... Guess he was really meant to become a magical girly boy_.

_Well, whether he likes it or not, Ren looks much better in a skirt. Even when he wore his uniform, he looked like a girl trying to dress in a boyish manner. I loved teasing him about that. Now that I think about it, it'd be fun to go on dates with him dressed as a boy... maybe he'd be even more embarrassed_...

Ken shook his head. _This isn't the time to go be thinking about how cute Ren is_.

The boy looked up at the top of the stone stairs. Even though he couldn't see, he knew the temple and the house lied just beyond.

_I need to talk to him... no... I want to... And for that, I need to climb these damn stairs_.

But no matter how much he wanted, Ken couldn't overcome that feeling in his gut and climb the stairs.

_Screw it_!

Ignoring his instinct, he placed the foot the first step. His scar throbbed and burned. He had trouble to breathe.

Clutching his chest, he leaned against the closest tree. _What the hell was that?_

_Shit! All I want to is to talk to Ren_...

No matter how much he breathed or massaged his chest, the pain didn't go away. _How can I make things like they used to be when I can even go to his house anymore_?

Ken smashed the fist against the trunk. _Damn it... I'll overcome whatever this is,_ he vowed to himself, walking away from the temple feeling nothing but frustration.

As he got farther, the pain on his scar lessened until it faded.

Chapter 3

To keep himself busy, Ken helped his mother clean the rest of house during the morning. _I know he was living alone, but to think grandpa wouldn't clean at all..._

After the accident, his family moved closer to the hospital where he was. Only his grandfather remained in the old mansion. But the old man barely took care of anywhere but the dojo.

"I'm taking grandpa to the doctor. Then we'll check the apartment. Hope the twins aren't giving your dad a hard time," she said when they finished. She gave Ken some money before leaving. "I don't know how things are there, but we'll probably stay."

"Okay. Bye mom, bye grandpa."

Since he wasn't in the mood to cook, Ken went to the convenience store to buy a premade lunch. _This place hasn't changed at all too,_ he thought, grinning as the door opened.

He and his friends used to rush to the story after school whenever the latest issue of weekly _Shōnen Fly_ was released. _The manager hated 'cause we kept reading without buying_... _how many times did she complain?_

_Ren didn't like doing because his mom always gave him a lecture... Shun too... Even so, they still read with me and Ryuu_...

Before he noticed, Ken was standing before the magazines, picking up this week's issue.

_Lucky. The last one_. He flipped through until he found the manga he had been reading ever since waking up from the coma. _Can't believe that author ended the last series and started a new one while I was out. Speaking of that, I still haven't read the ending... and to anyone's surprise, a certain author went on hiatus again... Can't believe there was only a hand full of chapters in a year_...

As he read, the boy felt the familiar sensation of a pair of eyes on him. With a smile, he picked up a premade lunch and headed to the register. "Don't worry, manager. I'm gonna buy the magazine this time."

The manager looked confused as she scanned the barcode. But a second later, her face lit with a smile. "Ken-chan!"

The boy nodded, making the woman's smile wider.

"Can't believe you've grown so much! And now you even pay for the magazine."

"I can't be a kid trying to read the entire issue without paying forever," he said, chuckling.

After a brief conversation where he found out the town knew about the accident, though with some strange and ridiculous modifications, Ken left the convenience store.

_Can't believe this town came up with such nonsense... I wouldn't be surprised if they believed we were trying human transmutation_ , he thought as he ate his food at the park.

_Wonder if Shun and Ryuu believe this too... Nah, no way... They must have heard something from Ren... There's no way they wouldn't ask_...

When Ken finished his lunch, he threw the trash out. After a moment wondering, he went to Shun's house. _If I can't go to Ren's house, I can at least see my other friend... Hope it's not too rude to show up without calling... especially after a year_...

_The house looks the same... even this_ , he noticed, looking at the cracked plate with the family name. _I don't remember how, but we were playing and ended up breaking it... his mom was so mad... and yet she never fixed it_...

Ken took a deep breath and let out a mixture of sigh and chuckle. _A year ago I used to come here all the time. Now I'm nervous to see my friend_... He rang the bell and waited. _Since I'm a coward who can't climb some stupid stairs, Shun might be able to fill me in... I need to know what happened after the accident_...

"Yes?" an older woman with a friendly face opened the door.

"Hello, aunt," Ken said, bowing. "Sorry to come out unannounced but–"

"Ken-chan? Is that you?" When the woman recognized him, she smiled and cried. "You've grown so much! The last time I saw you was..."

"Sleeping helped my growth spurt," he said in a cheerful voice and a big smile to break the uncomfortable mood.

The woman let out a low awkward chuckle. "I can see that..."

"I know it's early, but did Shun get back from school? I just moved back yesterday and I wanna meet everyone..."

"Of course." She opened the door so the boy could enter. "Shun had the last exam today, so he's completely free."

"Excuse me," Ken said, taking off his shoes.

The woman led him through the familiar house until they stopped at a door on the second floor. "Shun? There's someone to see you here," she spoke in a low voice, knocking softly.

Without any response, light footsteps came towards the door. A short boy with messy brown hair that covered part of his freckled face was standing on the other side. He looked from his mother to Ken.

"I leave you two alone," his mother said before leaving. Ken noticed her crying and smiling at the same time again.

"Hey, Shun. It's me," he said with a bright smile. "It's been a while, but you haven't changed. Actually, your hair got even worse."

Out of reflex, he messed Shun's hair even more. Even though they were the same age, everyone treated him like the little brother of the group due to his height.

Shun didn't react. When Ken stopped, he fixed his hair as best he could before staring at the other boy. It took a while but he finally recognized his friend, his face going from annoyance to joy. "Ken!"

He was about to enter the room when he restrained himself. Until a year ago, Ken used to enter Shun's, and all his friends', room without worrying if he was being rude, like he had done many times. Now he was too conscious of that and waited until his friend invited him in.

After hesitating, with his face red, Shun let his old friend into his bedroom.

Ken immediately realized why the boy was reluctant. The room looked the same and yet very different from what he remembered.

Instead of the old posters of the manga and anime and toys they all liked, the walls were now covered by posters of cute anime girls. Before, the room had a single small bookshelf; now it had two huge ones. The first was filled with manga and other books, just as before. But the other was filled with anime figurines in provocative poses, some barely wearing any clothes at all.

Ken observed the room in silence. _This is something that changed a lot... I'd never have imagined my friend would become an otaku_ , he thought, as he leaned closer to see one of the figurines. _Hey, this girl has a bulge under her skirt_...

Even without seeing, he could feel Shun's silent apprehension. "A bit different from what I remember," he said at last, keeping his voice free of judgment.

The boy flushed, crossed his arms and stared at the ground. "S-sorry... guess it's a huge shock..."

Ken couldn't help but smile. _His room may have changed, but he's still the same shy boy ready to apologize. He's still my friend_.

"Hey, don't apologize. There's no need. I'm not judging you or anything. I'm just saying it's... a little different from a year ago, that's all."

"Y-yeah, something like that... I mean, it must be quite a shock... your friend has become one of those creepy otakus in just one year." Shun uncrossed his arms and let out a hollow chuckle.

Ken didn't share the laugh. All he did was look at his friend without saying a word. "Who called you a creepy otaku?"

"No one," the boy said right away, averting his eyes.

Ken kept his silence until it became unbearable.

"Some guys at school... and... Ryuu..." Shun's voice was so low Ken barely heard his friend.

"I knew he was an idiot, but to think he'd say that to you..." The martial artist clicked his tongue. "Does that mean you two don't hang out anymore?"

Shun nodded.

"How about you and Ren? Or... Ren and Ryuu?" he forced himself to say the last part, feeling a spark of anger.

Shun didn't meet Ken's eyes.

_So the group is completely gone... I was afraid of that, but to confirm this is more shocking than I imagined_...

Ken kept quiet, remembering the old days, the hollow sensation growing within him.

The four of them were always hanging out together. From the moment they got to school until they had to go home after playing the entire afternoon.

"What happened?" He had his suspicions but wanted to confirm.

Shun pressed his lips and looked at the ground.

_That pretty much confirms it..._ "So it was my fault," Ken said in an empty voice.

"No!" Shun shouted. He opened his mouth for a while, struggling to find words. But then he closed it and averted his eyes again.

"What happened?"

The shy boy dropped his shoulder and looked more miserable than Ken had ever seen his friend.

"After you... after that..." He fought back the tears for a moment. "We heard about it the next day... Ryuu and I wanted to see you in the hospital, but my mom said you couldn't receive any visitors... We tried talking to Ren, but he was so shocked he didn't leave his house for a month... we thought he was hurt too... he didn't even come to school..."

Ken remained in silence as his friend relived those memories.

"Ryuu and I heard nothing about neither of you. We tried to hang out like always, but it wasn't the same... It felt as if we were forcing ourselves... We played together less and less... Ryuu started hanging out with his brother's friend, and I..." Shun's cheeks became red as he trailed off.

_That's when he must've become an otaku_ , Ken thought, looking at the figurines.

"When the new semester started, your parents moved you to another hospital in a different city, and Ren... he... when he finally showed up... he was wearing the girl's uniform..."

Ken grew still as he took all in.

So that's what happened... No wonder they stopped hanging out. With me in a coma and Ren gone for a whole month...

_Wait, did Ren's cross-dressing have anything to do with the magical girly boy stuff? He did say he didn't dress like that because he wanted_...

"After the new semester started, did you talk to Ren?"

Shun blushed. "I-I tried... I wanted to talk to him, to know what had happened that day... but Ren had become distant. He looked depressed all the time... the boys seemed to react in a strange way. The girls tried to get closer, but he had this sort of 'don't approach me' aura...."

"He wasn't bully or anything, was he?" Ken asked, the spark of anger back. _If anyone did anything to Ren, I—_

"No!" Shun said right away. Then he bit his fingernail. "I don't think so... I don't remember. The boys just... started treating him like one of the girls... but I don't remember anyone making fun of him..."

Ken sighed in relief. "I like to tease him for being cute, but I'll never allow anyone to make fun of him. Even though he was always the cutest in our class..."

Shun laughed for real. "You know you're the only one who can say that, right? Whenever anyone else said he looked cute, he got mad."

Ken couldn't help but smile. "He did that to me too... but we've always been close..."

"Just close?" Shun shook his head with an expression of disbelief. "No wonder Ren called you stupid all the time..."

"Hey, we don't see each other for a year and you call me stupid?"

"I'm not the one saying. It was Ren who did. All the time."

The friends looked at each other. After a moment of silence, they laughed at the same time.

Ken took a deep breath and looked around the room once again. "So after that, you became into anime..."

"Y-yeah..." Shun looked at the floor, ashamed.

Ken hated seeing his friend like that. The boy was shy, but whenever he found something he truly liked, he became full of life, almost like a different person.

But the martial artist knew nothing he said right now would reach Shun.

Instead of words, Ken turned to the shelf with the figurines He walked from one side to the other, observing every girl. He stopped at the one with the bulge; a boy with long braided pink hair and a lance, wearing black clothes and a white cape. _It's cute for a boy in a skirt though not as cute as Ren..._

Though he was looking for a way to bond with the new side of his old friend, Ken only made Shun more nervous.

_There's nothing here to reconnect us...?_ Then Ken saw it. It was something that truly picked his interest and could also bond the friends; a magical girl figurine.

Without thinking, he reached to grab the girl. When felt Shun fidgeting behind him, Ken pulled his hand back.

"Sorry... I shouldn't touch without your permission..."

"N-no, it's okay...It's just that..." Shun struggled to find words again.

"Who is this girl?."

The boy's eyes shone. He picked he figurine with great care and held with both hands before his friend.

"This is Megumin! She really cute and cool! She's a magical girl, but can only use explosion magic. And only once a day! After that, she becomes useless and her friends have to carry her."

"I-is that so?" Ken smiled under his friend's enthusiasm.

Shun's face became an alarming shade of red. He put the figurine back and dropped his shoulders. "Sorry...There's no way someone cool like you'd be interested in something like this..."

"Actually, I am. I'm kinda interested in magical girls... for a reason..." Ken had to hold his urge to laugh.

Shun's face lit with a smile.

"I'll tell you all about Megumin! From the first episode we knew she had a strong sense of justice! Even if the odds were against her, she wouldn't let bullies rein free. Whenever there's someone in need, she showed up to help them. One day she saw a strange talking black cat with wings being chased by these suspicious people. Without hesitating, she stepped in to help. So the cat gave her the power and she became Magical Boom. With one explosion, she saved the day!"

He said all that without taking a breath.

Ken blinked a couple times, trying to take all in. "Wow... she seems interesting..." After checking again, he realized there were more figurines of Megumin than any other. **"** You really like her."

"She's my favorite! She was the first figurine I bought." His smile faded a little. So did the spark on his eyes. "She helped me a lot back then when..."

Ken didn't need to hear the rest. _When he was bullied for becoming an otaku_...

"Hey, tell me more about magical girls," he asked to change the mood.

Shun put the figurine back and turned to him with his eyes shining again. He ran to the other bookcase and picked up a few Blu-ray boxes. "I can't believe you of all people is interested in magical girls!"

"More like into one magical girl..." Ken laughed when Shun looked at him with a puzzled expression. "I saw one the other day and wanna know more about _her_."

"Yesterday? But there's was no magical girl anime yesterday," Shun mumbled to himself. "Was she cute?"

"The cutest I've ever seen."

"Then let's find who she is. In the meantime, I'll teach everything I know about magical girls!"

Ken had never seen Shun burning with such enthusiasm.

Chapter 4

When Ken left Shun's house a few hours later, his head was heavy with so much new information.

_I can't believe there's so much stuff about magical girls... And to think my friend knows it all... Why would that cute white rabbit mascot be evil? That was an interesting plot twist, but c'mon, who in their right mind would become a magical girl with a suspicious animal like that pestering you all the time_?

_And the other anime... To think those little girls would fight like that and then become friends... It was awesome. I hate to admit, but I'm a fan of magical girls... I mean, other than Ren_...

As Ken headed back, he received an email from his mother. _Because dad had been secretly training, his back got worse, so we'll sleep here_.

_Ah, grandpa... so today wasn't the only day you did that... I should've known_...

Despite the guilt for not telling his mother, the boy had nothing to complain. _I can eat something real quick and go look for Ren. Even if I can't go to his house, he might show up as a magical girly boy... At least I hope_...

Ken bought another pre-made meal at the same convenience store. After eating, he headed to the same area he was attacked last night.

_According to Shun, a magical girl will appear whenever someone's in trouble. But that's in the anime and manga. It doesn't mean they fight every night_...

Even so, it was his best bet to meet the boy he liked again.

Almost an hour had passed and so far, there was no sign of Ren or any supernatural occurrence.

_Damn it... There are no monster of the day? Wait, what the hell am I thinking? It's better if that doesn't appear every night... I hate the idea of Ren fighting... that thing all by himself_...

After Ken gave up, he went to the temple and stood before the stone stair. _If he doesn't become a magical girly boy every night, the best way to meet him is at his house_...

He looked at the top of the steps. Then he looked at the first. Just like early that day, he couldn't place his foot on the stone stairs. Not without his scar throbbing so much he almost lost his consciousness.

_Damn it... Now I know that accident had something to do with those monsters, and yet I can't overcome this pain_...

With the frustration growing, Ken stood where he was, looking at those stairs he had climbed countless times in the past. But no matter how much time passed, he couldn't place his foot on that first step.

_Shit... Ren's so strong and I can't even climb some damn steps_. Angry at himself, Ken went to the park nearby. _I just wanna talk to my best friend... I wanna know what happened_...

_Can't believe he wears something like that outfit... Whenever people thought he was a tomboy girl, he got mad and complained to me all afternoon... and thanks to me teasing him all the time, he started getting mad at everyone who called him cute_...

Before he knew, Ken smiled as he thought of his best friend. _That day when we went to the summer festival just the two of us... His mother made him dress in a girl's yukata. He didn't look just cute, he looked stunning_...

_That was when I fell in love with him... That's when I wanted to be with him for the rest of my life_...

_If I had known what those feelings meant back then_...

As that cute face filled his head, his heart thumped faster.

_Maybe we can't go back to what we used to be, but I still wanna be his friend... Even if... I can't be his... boyfriend_...

Ken placed a hand over his scar. With his eyes closed, he concentrated, letting his mind wander back to the day he almost died.

As the hazed and scarce memories popped in his mind, Ken remembered something else. It was Ren, smiling and crying in relief next to him. He couldn't remember the rest, but that face made him smile.

O _ne day I'll remember everything. If I wanna be by Ren's side forever, I have to_ , Ken vowed to himself.

As he thought of the boy he liked, the martial artist sensed a cold presence. A second later, a shiver ran throughout his body.

Before Ken could think, he dived forward, covering his head.

An instant later, the bench he was sitting was crushed from side to side.

Ken didn't have time to see the damage; he was already looking for the source of the attack. _Where is it?_

There was nothing. _Crap! It's invisible again_!

The martial artist sensed another shiver. He rolled on the ground a second before a large crack appeared where he was.

_Shit... I'll die if an attack like that hits me_...

Before he could get up, he sensed something coming from both sides. _Crap!_ Ken crossed his arms before his face and curled his body in defense position, bracing himself for the impact.

"You idiot!" an angry and familiar voice shouted. "How can you be looking for trouble after yesterday?"

The magical girly boy came from the sky and landed before Ken. He extended the arms on both sides and created a yellow barrier around them.

_Amazing... It's just like an anime,_ Ken couldn't help but think as the invisible attacks collided against the barrier with a loud crashing sound.

Ren strained his face and bent his arms a little. Then he extended them, making the transparent barrier grow.

Whatever was attacking was pushed back. Before it could attack again, the magical girly boy twirled his fingers and his magical stick appeared out of thin air. As he ran the hand on the shaft, the stick grew and the wings on each side spread and joined at the top.

In less than a second, the magical girly boy's small stick had turned into a fine long spear.

Everything was so fast Ken could barely keep up.

Ren swung the magical spear above his head and then kicked the ground. With an amazing speed, he reached the other side of the park and stabbed at nothing.

A deafening screech of pain echoed in the park.

Ken strained his eyes, focusing on where the spearhead was. The diffused edges of a monster became visible. Though this one had a more humanoid shape, it reminded the one from last night, with fewer limbs and smaller.

The thing swung one of its arms at Ren as it struggled for its life.

The magical girly boy was too fast. With a light backward jump, Ren seemed to fly. He planted both feet on a tree and pushed his legs for impulse, the weapon stretched before him.

The spear pierced the monster where the head should be. With another shriek, the deformed transparent thing began to crumble on itself. Soon it disappeared, leaving nothing but a puff of darkish smoke that vanished in the air.

"... stronger than I imagined," Ren mumbled. "Yeah, it looked like the one from yesterday... it could be... the same energy? Then... yes... we need to find the source soon..."

"That was incredible, Ren!" Despite his shaky legs, Ken walked towards his friend. "I always knew you were awesome..."

The magical girly boy looked surprised. Then Ren smiled and blushed. In the next second, however, his expression became angry.

"Why are you here?" he asked in a low voice, staring Ken right in the eyes.

The sudden change took the martial artist aback.

"Of course I'm here looking for you. Do you really think I wouldn't worry after yesterday? That I'd simply forget about you?"

"You should! That's why I gave you a way out and made you forget about me! This is dangerous–"

"You idiot!" Ken shouted, getting so close his face was inches from the magical girly boy. "There's nothing in this world that could make me forget you!"

Ren took a step back, holding the spear with both hands. "But my memory spell—"

"It barely worked!"

"What...? My magic didn't work on you...? I made sure to erase everything about yesterday..."

"Yeah, it did. But the moment I heard your name, I remembered everything." Ken shortened the distance between them again, forcing the magical girly boy to look him in the eyes. "There's no way I could ever forget anything about you, Ren."

Ren's face became red and he looked away, pressing his lips, trying, and failing, to hide his smile. "You're an idiot... I wanted to protect you... You'll be safer if you stay away from me..."

"I'd rather be in danger than stay away from you." Ken's voice was strong and full of determination, making Ren's eyes water and his smile grow.

"That's why you're an idiot..."

"I think you made that clear already." Ken smiled as he placed a lock of the golden hair behind the magical girly boy's ear. Then he caressed that soft cheek got redder. "I missed you..."

"I missed you too," Ren whispered. "There wasn't a day that went by when I didn't think about you..."

Ken's heart thumped louder. He looked Ren in the eyes, his face burning. When he ran a thumb on those lips, his head went blank. The next second, he leaned closer.

The magical girly boy closed his eyes and did the same.

Before they could kiss, however, the sound of people nearby brought them back to reality.

Ken ignored; he wanted to kiss the boy he liked.

But Ren opened his eyes.

When their eyes met, the magical girly boy's face became an alarming shade of red and he looked away.

_Damn it... stupid people... just a few more seconds and we'd have kissed_...

"We should get out of here before someone sees us," the martial artist said grudgingly. He looked at the aftermath of the fight; a broken bench, destroyed trees and a couple holes on the ground. "The last thing we need is more strange rumors about us."

Ken would rather continue what they were doing, but he knew he had lost his chance for now.

"D-don't worry. P-people won't come close until this mess is cleaned," Ren said, trying to mask his embarrassment. "B-but its best if we leave. I'm not in the mood to give a report today."

"Clean the mess? Report?"

"It's too long to explain everything now. Let's go before they get here."

Ren grabbed Ken's hand and ran. He only stopped when they were on the playground a few blocks away.

As Ken recovered his breath, Ren clutched his spear with both hands. "Are you okay?"

"Yeah... no problem... it's just that... I haven't run like this... in a while..."

_A year, give or take a couple weeks..._ Ken bought two drinks on the nearby vending machine and handed one to Ren. By the time he finished the iced tea, his breathing was back to normal.

"Now can you tell me how you end up as a magical girly boy?" he asked, tossing the can in the trash.

Ren held the spear before him. The weapon returned to the original magical stick form and disappear. Then he took his time with the orange juice. But when the can was empty, he had run out of excuse.

"Guess at least you deserve the truth... But before that..."

He threw the can out and held his hand close to his heart. With a swoosh and a bell like ringing, his magical girly boy's clothes shone and vanished when the light was gone.

Instead of the modified shrine priestess outfit, Ren wore a pleated miniskirt, black pantyhose, and a coat that went all the way to his knees. His long golden hair shrunk to a shoulder length and became black again. In his hand there was a yellow jewel in the form of a lotus flower. When he brought it closer, a metal neckless appeared out thin air around his neck and attached to the pendant.

Ken could only stare at his friend's magical reverse transformation in silence.

The magical girly boy trembled slightly and brought the coat closer. "W-what...?"

"Even something like this looks cool in real life." Ken placed his muffler around Ren's neck, making the boy blush. "And I never imagined you'd be dressing like this outside your magical girly boy's form."

Ren looked down at his clothes. Then he pulled the coat even closer, making sure Ken couldn't see what was underneath.

"Let's make something clear right now! I don't dress like this because I want, okay? It's Goro's fault! He only lets me use my powers if I'm dressed like a girl all the time!" Ren said in one breath, panting a little. "It's not like I enjoy wearing skirts or frilly panties, okay? Dressing like this is not my hobby!"

"Sure... If you say so." _So he is wearing panties! I wanna see_!

"Then stop grinning!"

"I wish I could, but I can't. You look so cute it's not fair." Ken's sincere smile only made Ren more embarrassed.

The girly boy flushed and pressed his lips. He lowered his head but wasn't fast enough to hide his smile from his childhood friend. It took a few moments but when he was calm again, he looked up.

"What do you wanna know?"

Ken stopped smiling.

"Everything. Why are you fighting those monsters? What are they? Are you really wearing panties? Can I see? Who's this awesome Goro that only lets you use your powers if you're dressed like a girl all the time? Your family knows you're doing this, right? You said you were an Onmyōji. That has to do with the temple, right?"

Ren took all the questions in silence. Then he sighed and let out a weak chuckle.

"I give you a way out of this and you head straight in the other direction," the cross-dressing boy mumbled more to himself than to his curious friend. Despite his words, he had a tiny smile. "Fine. I'll tell you everything."

Ren sat on the swings and stared at the ground, moving back and forth a bit.

The martial artist did the same, never taking his eyes off the magical girly boy, waiting in silence.

"We call those monsters Echoes. They're born from humans emotions. Hate, envy, guilt, self-doubt, depression, anxiety, obsession..." Ren finally started talking. "When an emotion becomes too strong, it might give birth to an Echo..."

"And they attack humans?"

"Most times. They don't have a mind exactly... They're slaves of the emotion which gave birth to them. They will either seek people with the same emotion to get stronger, or find the people who are the cause of those emotions. If not dealt with, an Echo will get much more powerful. When that happens, it'll find a physical vessel and become a Noise."

_Echoes and Noises... They do sound like monsters magical girls fight in animes_.

"You face monsters like that all the time?"

"Not only them, but most time I fight Echoes..."

"Are the Echoes all deformed like those? I couldn't see it, but I could tell it was grotesque."

"They're not always like that. People's feeling can become so twisted to a point it's not even recognizable anymore..."

Ken remained in silence as he absorbed all. _I never imagine things like that actually existed in real life... let alone so close to me_...

"What about your powers? Where do they come from?"

"It comes from this." Ren showed the lotus flower pendant. Ken leaned closer to observe. "It's my own Noise."

"You use a Noise to fight Echoes?" _That looks like a normal pendant to me_.

"Yes. Most are born from humans' negative emotions, but not all. My family is one of the few who can give birth to good Echoes. We raised them until they become Noises. This here is Goro... one of the most annoying Noises you'll ever meet," Ren muttered the last part, averting his eyes. Then he shook his head and tugged the pendant back inside Ken's muffler.

"So your Noise forces you to cross-dress?"

The magical girly boy's eyes became empty. "Yeah... when I'm not dressed as a girl, Goro says he doesn't get in the mood and I can't sync with him to transform..."

"I like him already," Ken said, nodding and humming in approval. "Wait. You gave birth to it, right? What was the emotion? The desire to look even cuter?"

"No, you idiot! I have no idea what gave birth to it! And I don't know why this idiot keeps insisting on making me wear a damn skirt!" Ren snapped, breathing through his nose.

The martial artist didn't even try to suppress his laugh. _I missed this reaction._

"He can talk, right? I'd like to thank him for making you wear a cute miniskirt."

The cross-dressing boy sighed. Then took a deep breath to suppress his anger before showing the pendant to his friend.

Ken leaned closer, trying to hear anything. There was only silence.

"Shut up!" Ren suddenly became red and clutched the jewel with more force than necessary.

"I didn't say anything yet!"

"It's not you! This idiot is talking right now. Actually, he won't shut up. I don't know if he has that ability..."

Ken stared at the closed fist. Then turned to the owner of that delicate hand. "He is talking now?"

"He doesn't have an off button..." Ren put the jewel back inside Ken's muffler. "I don't know why, but it seems you can't hear him."

Ken dropped his shoulders. "You don't have to look so relieved. All I wanted was to say great job for making you even cuter..."

"Unfortunately, this idiot can hear you... and by the stupid things he keeps spouting, I'd rather you two never talked to each other..."

"That means we'd be good friends. I'll make sure to hear him one day." Ken beamed. But soon stopped. "You said your family can give birth to Echoes... so that means your parents know about you being a magical girly boy?"

"Yes. My family's been fighting Echoes for generations. We're not the only ones in Japan, but we're one of the oldest and most powerful. We go back as far as the Sengoku era. My dad used to fight them when he was younger."

"Your dad?"

Ken stopped to imagine for a moment. _Yikes... Ren's dad is a huge guy with almost two meters_... The boy shivered as the picture of that man transforming like Ren popped into his head. _I'd rather not see that... if it were his mom... She's like an older version of Ren... or better yet, Ren's a younger and more girlish version of her... a mother and son magical duo... I'd pay to see that_...

"Yeah. He still has his power. But he leaves the fight against Echoes to us."

"To us? You mean your sisters?"

Ren's face darkened. He looked down as he clutched the chains of the swing and dug his feet on the sand to stop swaying.

"Rin's too young to be fighting every night. And sis... She can't use her powers anymore... not after that day..."

Ken didn't need to hear the rest. _The day I almost died..._ He touched his scar, feeling it itch slightly. _So Echoes were involved..._

"I can barely remember that day..." He turned to Ren and asked in a low voice, "Tell me what happened... please..."

The magical girly boy remained quiet for a long time, facing the ground.

"It was my fault... We were in the temple when we heard the sound of my sister training... we sneaked past the acolytes, climbed the mountain, and then... and then..."

Ren couldn't finish due to the tears.

Ken didn't even think twice before hugging his friend. _He's been blaming himself this entire time..._

"I shouldn't have done that," Ren went on despite the tears. "We distracted sis... It was only for a second, but it was enough for the demon free himself and attack us... We managed to defeat and seal him, but you were... you were dying... we tried to heal you but... nothing worked... so sis... she gave her powers to save your life..."

Ken hugged Ren as tight as he could. His friend's cries were too painful for him.

"You almost died and sis lost her powers... I shouldn't have shown you my family secret!" Ren wrapped his arms around the martial artist and buried his face on Ken's chest, crying to his heart content.

When the girly boy stopped, he let go of Ken and turned away to clean the tears.

Ken only got back to the swing when he was sure Ren didn't need another hug

"So because Ran-nee couldn't be a magical girl anymore, you took her place?" he asked, and Ren nodded. "So that's why Shun said you disappeared for a month and came back cross-dressing..."

"I was learning how to use my powers," Ren said in a low voice. Then he fidgeted. "W-when... did you talk to Shun...?"

"Today. I went to his house after lunch." And then Ken remembered the conversation he had with his other childhood friend. "Actually, I wanted to ask about that too. What happened between you three?"

"It was my fault you were in a coma... How could I face them after what I did? And also..." Ren blushed and played with his fingers. "It was hard facing them in my new uniform..."

Ken couldn't help but chuckle. "You overthink things, as always. You're so cute there should've been a law forcing you to cross-dress even back then."

"And you're an idiot as always."

Ken raised his hands defensively.

"I'm just being honest. It's not my fault. Ever since I saw you wearing that magical girly boy outfit, I thought you seemed more natural. And I'm right. You are a boy who looks better in a skirt." His face lit with a smile. "I'll be making an offering in your temple for Goro. Oh, yeah, you still haven't answered me. What kind of panties you wear?"

Ren blushed and punched his friend on the arm. "Will you shut up about this? It's already embarrassing enough I have to wear this. I don't need you asking me about my panties all the time!"

"Just tell me and I'll shut up."

"Mostly bright colored laced ones because a magical girly boy should wear bright colors according to dad! There! Are you happy now?" Ren shouted, his face turning into an alarming shade of red.

He wasn't the only one though. Ken was blushing as well.

"Laced ones? That's... I wanna see..."

"Shut up!"

As Ren tried to hit him again, Ken avoided and laughed.

Chapter 5

"Wait!" Ken was about to press the doorbell when Ren grabbed his sleeve. The magical girly boy lowered his head but didn't let go. "I... I'm not sure about this... coming here so suddenly... even for us, it's rude..."

They stood before Shun's front door. As Ken escorted Ren back home last night, he suggested visiting their friend the next day.

"After the morning anime. Shun'll probably be distracted if he's missing the episode _,_ " the martial artist had said.

Ren was more than just reluctant. First, he said since they hadn't talked in a year, it would be awkward coming out of the blue. Then that it was too soon and he wasn't ready yet. He came up with a few more excuses, but even the magical girly boy himself knew they were flimsy at best.

In the end, he caved and agreed to visit Shun after so long. However, even before the door and ready to ring the bell, he still hesitated.

Ken didn't feel any desire to tease the boy he liked. _His hesitation is cute, but he's not just nervous... Because of his duty as a magical girly boy, he isolated himself from everyone, including his closest friends. Even if he says it was awkward talking to Shun while wearing a skirt, I'm sure he was pushing everyone away in order to protect them... like he wanted to do with me_...

"Hey." He enveloped Ren's hand gently until the boy looked at him. "It's gonna be okay. It might be awkward at first, but it's not like you guys fought or anything. You two are friends. Shun misses hanging out with you too."

Ren pressed his lips and hid half his face under Ken's muffler, which he still hadn't given back. "You think?"

Ken flashed a gentle smile as he held that slender hand tighter. "Trust me. Everything's gonna be alright."

Ren finally relaxed a little as he squeezed his friend's hand. "You know every time you say that, things go bad?"

With a bemused expression, the martial artist shook his head. "What? I don't recall anything like that. Stop lying."

"I'm not lying." Ren pulled down the muffler and showed a playful smile. "A few of my childhood traumas happened moments after you said 'don't worry' or 'trust me'."

"Like when?"

"Like that summer day when we were playing until night. We completely lost track of time so you suggested we went through that abandoned house as a shortcut."

Ken thought for a moment. "Yeah... I remember that... So what?"

Ren's eye twitched. "Guess you don't remember the family of dogs living there. The mama chased us for an entire block until she gave up."

"Oh, yeah... there was something like that... You tripped and I carried you in my arms..."

Ken smiled as he remembered, squeezing the boy's hand a little tighter. Now he knew his feelings for Ren, his heart thumped faster with the memory. _If I'd known back then..._

"You call 'trauma' but it's more like a funny story to tell our kids." He didn't mean to, but he blushed by his own words. _I haven't even confessed and I'm already talking about our kids..._ To his luck, the boy he liked didn't notice anything. "A-and that's probably your only so-called trauma. I doubt you have more."

Ren's expression turned into disbelief. "The not-so abandoned beehive."

"Hey, that wasn't my fault. The beehive was empty!"

"Yeah, except for that lonely bee that stung me on the butt," he said, barely controlling the anger in his voice. "I couldn't sit straight for days."

"I don't remember that part..." Ken chuckled as he recalled that day, not meeting his childhood friend's eyes.

That seemed to make Ren even madder.

"I have plenty of more traumas! The day you wanted to play in the 'shallow' river. That idiot fighting bug idea to make money. That thing went up my nostril!" Ren rubbed his nose. "The 'chain will hold it'. That spiced candy. And many others! All after I head 'trust me' or 'don't worry' from your stupid mouth!"

Ken tried to keep the face serious after his best friend poured out the childhood trauma caused by him. But a second later, he failed.

"Stop laughing!" Ren finally shouted, his face red, though he didn't let go Ken's hand. "I tell my traumas caused by you and you laugh at my face?"

Ren pulled Ken closer and tried punching him with the free hand.

The martial artist dodged while still laughing.

"I can't help it. Besides, you have to agree they turned out to be funny stories to tell in the future." Ken held Ren's fist and brought the boy closer. "And even if you complained, you still went along with me. Guess you could never say no to me."

Ren blushed and averted his eyes. But before he could say anything, the door opened. Shun's mother looked annoyed, but when she saw Ken, her expression became delight.

"Ah, Ken-kun! I'm so happy you came again. I was wondering who would make such ruckus before our house."

"I'm sorry for that, aunt." Ken bowed to the woman, regretting when Ren let go of his hand. "We came to see Shun, but ended up talking too much."

Only now the woman turned to the person next to him. As she stared the cross-dressing boy, she frowned. A second later, her eyes widened.

"Ren-chan? Is that you? Oh, my goodness, you've... erh... changed... I still remember when you were this cute little boy... erh... kid..."

While Ren blushed, Ken felt the urge to laugh. But above that, he wanted to make sure the boy in a skirt knew he wasn't alone. So he placed a hand on his friend's back, hoping it would be enough to stop the slight trembling.

"I'd heard about... this, but I never thought you'd look so cute. Nobody would say you're a boy," the woman went on, not noticing anything.

Ren looked as if he could die of embarrassment. Away from the woman's eyes, he tugged at the back of the martial artist's shirt.

"Everyone was glad he decided to dress like this. He looks too cute." Ken looked at Ren with a true smile. The priest's cheeks went red. Before the woman could say anything, he quickly changed the subject. "Is Shun home?"

"Hm? Oh, yes, yes. He's in his room... watching anime," the woman said in a low voice, her eyes distant as she glanced back inside the house. With a sigh, she turned to the two boys, her gaze lingering at Ren with a strange expression. "I'm going out for groceries right now, but you can come in. Make yourselves at home like you used to."

"Sorry for the sudden intrusion," Ken said as she passed by them.

"I'm truly happy you came again." With a last smile, the woman turned the corner and was gone.

"That was one of the reasons you didn't want to come, wasn't it?" Ken asked in a low voice.

"Yeah," the cute boy admitted, pulling his friend's muffler closer. "It's easier to talk to new people... But when it's someone who knew me before... It's embarrassing... especially because I can't explain the real reason why I'm cross-dressing..."

_This affects him more than I can even imagine..._ Ken showed a bright and confident smile. "You don't have to worry about that anymore. Whenever something like this happens, I'll be there for you."

"I don't want things to become even more awkward, you idiot," Ren muttered, making sure the muffler hid his smile. But with the other hand, he tugged the back of his childhood friend's shirt a little more.

_Damn... Ren's so cute it's not fair,_ Ken thought, his heart thumping faster as he led the way to Shun's bedroom.

He glanced at the boy he liked, who stood completely still. Though the eyes said otherwise, Ren made a stiff nod.

"Hey, Shun, it's me, Ken," he said, knocking on the door twice. At the same time, Ren moved a little to stand behind him. "And I've brought someone."

They heard their friend stumbling as he rushed to the door. Shun was smiling when he saw Ken. But when his eyes moved to the cross-dressing boy almost completely behind the martial artist, his cheeks reddened.

"H-hi, Ren..."

"H-hi, Shun... i-tt's been a while," the girly boy said in a barely audible whisper, tugging Ken's clothes even harder.

They both kept quiet, neither meeting each other eyes.

_Right now, it's best if I don't do anything,_ Ken thought, observing his friends, fighting back his urge to break the silence.

"L-let me tidy up first!" Shun said and closed the door.

"We shouldn't have come..." Ren lowered his head down. "Did you see how he looked at me? Like he was seeing something bizarre..."

Ken smiled as he patted the boy he liked on the head.

"There's no one in this world who'd call someone as cute as you bizarre." Ren said nothing but didn't push the hand away. "Besides, do you really believe Shun would think that? He was just surprised 'cause he never imagined someone as cute as you'd want to enter his room."

"You really believe he doesn't think I'm weird...?" Though he tried to hide it, his voice said it all; Ren was more afraid of this than he showed.

"I'm sure. Right now, he's putting his otaku things away because he doesn't want to show that side of him in front you. Trust m—believe me," Ken changed the words in midsentence with a sly smile.

Ren let out a weak chuckle and smiled. "I have a few traumas attached to those words too..."

When Shun the door open again, his face was red and sweaty. "C-come in!"

"Sorry for the intrusion." This time Ken entered the room without giving much thought.

Ren, on the other hand, stood at the door, tugging Ken's shirt until it slipped through his fingers. When he met Shun's eyes, they both blushed and averted their gazes.

"S-sorry for the intrusion," the boy in skirt whispered and entered his childhood friend's room after almost a year.

Ken almost laughed when he looked around the bedroom. Tidying up had made a huge difference. _It's like another room!_

The bed was made, the school uniform on the hanger instead of the floor, and the cases of games and anime near the TV were neatly organized.

_But the major difference is on the shelves. Shun put the busty figurines on the back and placed books to hide most,_ Ken thought as he glanced at the largest shelf in the room. But when he realized his friend had put the more perverted manga away, he couldn't stop himself.

"Why did you hide the lewd manga, Shun?" he asked in a normal tone, doing his best to suppress the laugh. "It's just us, Ren and I. Two guys. Despite one of us looking cuter than all the girls I know."

Shun became an alarming shade of red and looked at the ground. Ren was the same, though instead of the ground, he shot an angry look at Ken.

While the owner of the room did his best to ignore the question as he pulled a chair and a stool for his friends, the girly boy tried to punch Ken, though none hit the martial artist.

When they all sat, a strange silence settled.

While Shun and Ren looked awkward and tried to find anything to say, the martial artist only showed a genuine smile.

"W-why are you smiling like that? It's creepy," the priest complain when he reached his limit.

"It's just that..." Ken blushed and scratched his cheek. "I know it's been a year, and a lot has changed, but for me, it doesn't feel that long since we hung out together like this..."

Ren and Shun exchanged glances full of guilt.

_Ah, crap. I didn't mean to make them feel guilty_.

"M-maybe we should call Ryuu too... it'd be just like the good old days."

Ren and Shun exchanged looks again.

"I-I doubt Ryuu would come," Shun mumbled barely above a whisper.

"And if he did, he'd tell you to shut up and probably try to get rid of that stupid smile of yours," Ren added loud enough for everyone to hear.

Ken shook his head. "He wouldn't do that. We were good friends, despite fighting once in a while."

Shun and Ren exchanged looks again. This time, however, they laughed together.

"Yeah, you two were good friends..."

"Who fought over anything, no matter how stupid it was," Ren finished and Shun nodded. "Like the last candy on the package or who would try the _gashapon_ first..."

"Remember when they fought for that horned beetle?"

"I remember that... They both said they saw it first and decided to settle with rock–paper–scissors, but then it turned into a fight." Ren grinned as the memories came back.

"They ended up crushing the beetle during the fight and didn't speak to each other for days..." Shun smiled too.

"Yes... idiots..."

"Hey, that happened because you dropped the beetle and it flew towards us!" Ken complained.

"That thing went up my nose!" Ren reminded him, wincing as he recalled. "Not only it hurt, it stank... I could only smell beetle for days..."

"If you hadn't dropped it, I'd have that beetle, since I was winning the fight."

The three boys remained in silence for a while. Then they laughed at the same time.

"If Ryuu was here, there's no way you two wouldn't fight over something stupid," Ren said when he stopped laughing. "Anything was an excuse. I bet you two would accuse each other of cheating on the video game or something. Just like the good old days."

Ken's heart felt lighter as he watched Ren smile and get more relaxed. But suddenly he felt the urge to tease him. And the perfect opportunity was right before his eyes.

At the beginning, the cross-dressing boy sat with his knees together. As the conversation flowed and he became more at ease, however, he relaxed too much. Now, in a skirt, his underwear was in plain view.

_Yellow... cute_ , Ken thought, almost savoring the moment as his heart thumped faster. _Calm down. I can't blush just because I'm seeing the panties of the boy I like. He'll realize_.

"Yeah, I can't deny... We used to fight over anything," he said, suppressing any hint of teasing from his voice. "But even if Ryuu was here, it wouldn't exactly be like back then. I mean, Ren didn't wear yellow frilly panties like that one when he was a kid."

The boy in skirt took a moment to register those words. Then he looked at where Ken was eyeing. So did Shun.

When Ren realized his underwear was exposed, he brought his knees together and pressed his skirt down. The rage and embarrassment crossed his face as he glared at his friend.

The martial artist laughed, satisfied with the result. _If Ren could, I bet he'd transform and kick my ass right now_.

Shun was just as red as girly boy. He looked anywhere but his cross-dressing friend.

"You're still an idiot! That will never change!" Ren tried to kick Ken while holding down his skirt.

"And you're still overreacting to every little joke." He avoided the kicks with ease. "Besides, your underwear is cute. Any boy would be excited if he saw that."

Shun couldn't help but chuckle as he watched.

"What...?" Ren asked when Ken held his ankle and he couldn't pull it free while holding down his skirt.

The boy smiled and blushed, focusing on his fingers. "You two used to do this all the time too... tease each other, I mean... Even after a year, you two are still close..."

Ren blushed and calmed down. He sat on the chair with all the dignity he could muster, making sure he kept his knees together to avoid another panty shot.

Ken beamed at the boy he liked, who only blushed more.

"Hey, Shun. Do you still have your console? Let's play Kart! It's been literally over a year since I've played."

"Sure. Wait a minute."

He went to his closet where he kept the old video games. After setting the console, the three childhood friends sat on the floor before the TV, a scene that had happened countless times in the past.

As they raced again and again, Ken noticed one thing.

"Hey... are these our best laps from back then...?"

"Y-yeah..." Shun scratched his cheeks.

_He loved this game more than us, but hasn't played in a long time... guess it only reminded the old group was gone_... Ken watched his friend through the corner of his eyes.

Ren noticed too. After a quick exchange of looks with the martial artist, he nodded. Then flashed a sly grin. "Hey, Ken, please don't try to break the controller when you lose this time."

"Huh? What are you talking about? I've never done that. Stop making up lies. It's not cute."

"Lies? So you're gonna pretend that didn't happen? Fine. I'm sure Shun remembers." Ren leaned forward to speak directly to the other boy. "I'm talking about that time when Ken was first the whole race, but at the end, when he could see the finish line, a blue shell appeared out of nowhere. He fell on the waterfall and when came back, someone used the lighting. When he was tiny, he fell on the waterfall again. Everyone surpassed him and he didn't even finish the race..."

"Oh! I remember that!" Shun's face beamed. "There's no way I could forget! He got so mad he almost threw the controller on the floor. We stopped him just in time. But went home so mad..."

Ren and Shun looked the boy sitting between them and laughed.

"Ah! Remember that bomb car? He was in second and managed to hit you with the green shell just before the finish line. He was about to surpass you, but when you recovered, you backed up just to hit the bomb car and take him down with you." Shun's eyes shone as the memories came back.

"Oh, yeah! There's no way I'd forget that. We finished in six and seven because of that, but it was worth not seeing him get the first place." There was a note of pride in Ren's voice as he nodded.

"Can we put those stories aside?" Ken asked in a dry voice, chewing his tongue. "I do admit I had a slight temper back then, but it's in the past."

He wasn't annoyed for real. Seeing his friends grinning and talking to each other like they used to felt more than right. _See, Ren? Just because you're wearing a skirt doesn't mean you can't have fun like you used to. You can still have a normal life, even if you're a magical girly boy_.

"A slight temper? Sure, let's say it was that." Ren grinned even more as he turned to the screen.

"Let's see if you'll still grin like that after we finish."

Ken sat up straight, loosed his shoulders and moved his neck from side to side a couple times. Then he clutched the controller a couple times.

Ren and Shun laughed at the same time.

"What?"

"You probably never realized, but you always do this before 'stop fooling around and start playing for real'," Ren explained, his smile even wider.

"Oh, yeah? Enjoy all you can for now. Because I'll be playing for real from the beginning just to wipe those smiles." Ken focused on the screen as the race began, aware, but ignoring his friends' mocking grins.

Despite his words and the serious mode, the result was the same. Shun won most of the races in the circuit and got first place with ease, just like when they were younger. But the winner didn't taunt nor brag. All he did was show a true joyful smile.

_Shun was always a graceful winner. He never rubbed on our faces that he was much better at games than us... unlike someone_ , Ken thought sourly, turning to the boy he liked.

Though Ren was only third place, he smiled as if he had won.

"Ken, I don't see you on the podium. Could you please show me where you are? Oh, guess you're not there." Though cute, Ren's smug and tone were too annoying. "Didn't you say you'd play for real from the beginning? Wait... was that you being serious? Eh...? Your serious mode is only a fourth place? I mean, forget us, you couldn't even defeat a bot..."

"Again!" Ken grabbed the controller with more force than necessary.

Ren still had the mocking grin when the next race started. They were too busy to notice the third boy couldn't stop smiling either.

"That was so fun," Ren said after they left Shun's house. He stretched his arms. "I forgot just playing games with friends offline like this was too fun."

Shun's mother had invited them for dinner when she returned from grocery shopping, but they both refused. Ken was in charge of dinner that night and Ren was too embarrassed to stay alone.

"Yeah... but it was more fun when we were kids," Ken mumbled in a dry voice.

Ren walked ahead a few paces and turned around with a huge smile. "You're upset because after all you said, you barely got first places."

At the sight of Ren with the sunset behind him, Ken's heart thumped faster. He couldn't help but blush. "Shut up... It's been too long since I've played... There's no way I'd be on the same level as before..."

Those words only made Ren's grin wider and cuter. "You always had an excuse when you lost. Once a sour loser, always a sour loser." After a sigh, he blushed and his smile became shy as he played with his fingers, not looking directly at his friend. "But I'm glad that part of you didn't change," he said in a low voice.

Ken's heart pounded louder. _Damn it, Ren. Why do you look so perfect? Are you trying to make me confess to you right now? Is that what you want_?

He glanced around. The street was deserted. _This is the perfect chance..._

"Can... can I ask you a favor...?" Ren said before Ken could make his decision. The girly boy's voice was so low it was hard for his childhood friend to hear.

_Damn it... I was too slow... again,_ he thought, sighing in his head. After a moment regretting, he smiled to the boy he liked. "Anything for you."

_Like you need to ask. You already know that_...

"Can we meet after dinner?" Ren's cheeks became a shade of red. "I need your help with my... _ma... magical g-girly boy duty_..."

Ken stopped smiling. _For him to ask directly like this, it means he really needs my help_.

"I'd go even if you used some magic to stop me," he said in a reassuring voice, making his friend smile again. Then he crossed his arms and tilted his head with a concerned expression. "But that might be a problem... In magical girl's stories, when someone gets involved, usually means she'll become a magical girl too. I don't want that. I'd look more than ridiculous wearing that priestess outfit."

It took a moment for Ren to register those words. Then he laughed. "First, yeah, I agree. You'd look like an idiot. But since you are one, everyone would know that without talking to you. It'd spare a lot of time."

"How many times did you call me an idiot just today?"

"I'm just being honest. Can't help it if you are one. But I think you're forgetting something. My... magical girly boy outfit..." he mumbled reluctantly. Those words alone were enough to make him embarrassed, "...is because of another idiot. There are a lot of us throughout Japan. Men and women."

"Hum... And they all wear outfits like yours? If the boys look like you, I don't see any problem... but I doubt there's a magical boy as cute as you."

"No, you idiot! Of course the guys don't dress like girls. I have to dress like that because of Goro!" Ren shouted, clutching the lotus jewel under the muffler.

"I completely agree with Goro. I'd rather see you in a skirt. I think everyone does." Ken placed a hand on his chin and nodded. Ren tried to kick him, but he avoided. "It's a promise. I'll meet you after dinner."

Ren blushed and kept quiet until the smiling Ken escorted him to the usual place they went on separate ways.

Chapter 6

_Can this be considered a date_? Ken wondered as he waited for Ren.

After dinner, he put on his best clothes and headed to the meeting place fifteen minutes earlier. Even if he had missed the latest chance to confess his feelings, he wasn't stupid enough to arrive just in time.

_I'm gonna consider a date. My first date with Ren_... The idea only made stomach flutter. _Even though he asked me to help with the magical girly boy stuff, it's still a date, so I need to show him I can help and also be a boyfriend_.

As he checked the time on his smartphone, Ken straightened his clothes again. _Hope he likes this... Can't believe he sent an email about dressing nicely... Wait, does that mean he thinks my clothes are so bad he doesn't want to be seen in a date with me wearing them_?

_Crap! I need to update my wardrobe! I don't wanna look shabby next to someone as cute as that boy! By I have zero sense of style! Ah, damn it! What am I gonna do_?

Ken messed his hair as he considered his options. _I could ask Ran... but knowing her, she might just trick me to wear something that'd make Ren embarrassed... Maybe if I ask Rin-chan... But I haven't even seen her since I got back... asking for a favor out of the blue... ah, damn it! What am I gonna do_?

"Ken. You're already here..." A surprised voice brought him back to reality. When he turned, he saw a petite silhouette walking towards him. "I could swear you'd be late. You always were back then."

Ken wanted to say he had arrived fifteen minutes earlier, while Ren was only five minutes. _But even if it's us, bringing that up when I'm trying to show him my boyfriend side is stupid. I'm an idiot like he keeps saying, but not that dumb_.

"There's no way I'd make you wait," he said with a smile. _Nailed it._

When Ren stepped into the light, however, Ken became too stunned to even smile. _Holy... He looks so... he looks so..._

The boy wore a short dark green short dress with jeans underneath, giving him a casual and cool appearance. With the high heel ankle boots and his hair tied with a lotus flower fluttering hair ornament, and the lotus pendant, he looked amazing. The light makeup, which he didn't need, only made him look more stunning.

_He's the most beautiful boy in the world..._ With his heart mesmerized by Ren's appearance, Ken didn't realize he had a goofy smile as he gazed at the boy he liked. "Y-you look a-amazing..."

_Damn it... why did I stutter? His beauty is like a low blow... Heavens, just look at him! It's not fair a boy look this beautiful_!

Ren blushed, smiled, and put a lock of his black hair behind the ear. "It was sis who made me wear this... She said you'd... it'd look good..."

"More than good... I need to thank Ran for this. You're too beautiful..." Ken said, aware of his goofy smile this time, but couldn't do anything about it. _I definitely need to buy new clothes... I need to look my best next to him._

Despite the smile and red cheeks, Ren shook his head to dismiss the mood.

"S-stop that. We're not here for this."

"We're not?"

"We're here so I can dump you," the boy said with a serious expression.

Ken blinked a couple times as he registered the words. Then his body went numb and his heart sank. Time seemed to stop. Everything went mute around him except for a strange buzzing.

"Wait, wait, wait! I haven't confessed yet and you're already dumping me?" Ken didn't even try to hide his panic. He couldn't, even if he wanted. His mind wasn't working after those words. "Give me a second chance, please! A first, actually, since I wasn't aware we were already dating! I promise I'll be the greatest boyfriend in the world!"

With his face red and pressing his lips, Ren chopped him on the head lightly. "You idiot.... Will you let me explain without saying something stupid?"

Despite those words, that cute and mischievous expression told Ken the boy he liked was enjoying his reaction.

_He did it on purpose... playing with my pure feelings..._ It took a few moments for his heart to pound at a somewhat normal pace again. Ken took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "Fine. I'll keep quiet until you finish."

"That would be a miracle." Ren rolled his eyes, his mischievous smile wider.

"You can't say you're gonna dump a boy out of the blue like that. It's bad for the heart," Ken muttered, massaging his chest to emphasize his point. It was still thumping fast.

"What did those Echoes look to you?" Ren ignored his friend's comment. There was nothing of the teasing from the seconds ago.

_This has to do with the real reason for this date,_ Ken realized. Ignoring the lingering pain from Ren's words, he forced his mind to go through those memories.

"I didn't get a very good look at either... I told you the Echoes look blurry all the time... But I could tell the first was huge. The second was big too, but smaller... and both were grotesques and had a lot of long and twisted arms... and... they felt similar..."

"You're right. Both Echoes looked alike. And there's a reason for that."

Without meeting Ken's eyes, Ren locked their arms and rest his head on the boy's arm.

The martial artist didn't want to ask what his friend was doing; he simply enjoyed as the boy he liked led him.

When they were near a convenience store, Ren indicated discreetly to a person sitting on the guardrail on the parking lot.

Wearing all black clothes, the boy's head was covered by a hood and only the lower half of his face was visible. With his hands in the pockets and a foot restless, Ken could only think of him as someone in trouble.

"That guy? He's the one who gave birth to those Echoes?" he asked in a low voice, trying not to stare directly.

"Yes. We traced the Echoes' energy back to him."

"Which emotions—"

"Jealousy and guilt," Ren answered before Ken finished the question. He clutched his friend's arm a bit harder. "Twisted and deep."

_He looks... normal... I mean, he looks like he has something worrying him, but everyone does... I know I can't tell much just by looking, but to think it was because of him I almost died twice_...

"Is it normal for one person to create more than one Echo?"

"Yes... Humans aren't as simple as they wish... some emotions are too complex to be understood... even to the people themselves." Ren's eyes grew distant as he looked down. "And around this time, the end or beginning of school term, can be hard for people our age... students with depression, anxiety, pent-up feelings... all can create powerful Echoes..."

The priest grew quiet.

_He's also talking about himself... all he had to burden since my accident_ , the martial artist realized, closing his fist. _But he's not alone anymore. I have no idea what I can do, but I can at least be by his side_. Ken wrapped the arm gently around Ren, pulling him closer.

"What are you doing?"

"Nothing." He shrugged. "I'm just here if for my friend."

Ren looked away and hugged Ken.

"So what are our mission today?" the martial artist asked in a light tone, trying to brighten up the mood.

"We're here to lessen of one of that guy's feeling."

Ken glanced at the source of the monsters. _The Echoes attacked me twice... and since I don't know him, it can't be because he has a grudge against me. So why I was the target...? Ren said he'd break up with me_ , he recalled, feeling a tug in his heart for a moment. _That's involved... but how_...?

"You want to... 'break up with me'..." saying aloud brought another pang, "to show him a hot guy getting dumped...?"

Ren stared at him with a blank expression. Then sighed. "Yes. That's about it. Minus the hot guy," he muttered the last part, averting his eyes. "Aren't you being too conceited calling yourself a hot guy? People with common sense would be embarrassed to do that..."

"Why do you think showing him a hot guy like me getting dump will help?" Ken ignored the comment.

"We've looked into his past. He liked a classmate and they became friends working together on a club project. When it was over, he confessed to her but was rejected."

_Who's this 'we' he keeps mentioning_?

"And the reason he was rejected had something to do with a hot guy?"

"She had already confessed to someone and was waiting for the reply, which she received a few days later. He got jealous when they started dating and began stalking them. As his emotions got more and more twisted, he convinced himself the girl and her boyfriend were making fun of him... The feeling mixed with hate and gave birth to an Echo..."

When Ren grew quiet, Ken knew something bad had happened. "What did the Echo do...?"

The boy bit his lips and closed his eyes. "What always happens when we don't detect an Echo in time... That twisted emotion attacked the source of the obsession... The girl's boyfriend was hurt, but I managed to save him before the worst..."

Ken touched his back where he was wounded during his first encounter with an Echo. _I was lucky to escape with my life. No wonder Ren wanted to keep me out of this world_...

"What about the second Echo?"

"The second one was born because after the 'strange accident', the girl confided in him and explained the whole story. She and her boyfriend were childhood friends and liked each other. But only reunited a few months ago, when he moved back in town. He was gonna confess to her too, but was waiting until he received a scholarship from some baseball powerhouse school..."

"So the target felt guilty for hating them without knowing their story..." Ken finished, and Ren nodded. "That explains why the Echoes that attacked me were twisted and strong... Wait, why I was attacked? Wasn't it born out of guilt? It has nothing to do with a hot guy like me."

Ren stared at his friend with dull eyes. "If you ask me, he felt like an idiot for stalking and hating them, so his Echo attacked a kindred spirit."

"So he considers himself a hot guy?" Ken hummed and nodded. Before Ren said anything else, he added, "How do you know all this? You said 'we've looked into his past'... Who's we?"

"I told there are exorcists all over the country. There are also people to back us up..."

"I see... I have a ton of questions but I'll leave for later. For now, let's focus on him. I don't want any more Echoes attacking me, even though seeing you fight in that cute outfit is a blessing. What's the plan?"

Ren's indifference vanished when his cheeks reddened. "We'll... we'll pretend to be a couple," he said in a low voice, not meeting his friend's eyes.

"So far, so good... minus the pretending part..." Ken's smile was both real and embarrassed.

"W-we'll act like l-lovers in front of him and... and then..." Ren tried to continue, pretending he hadn't heard Ken's interruption. But he was too embarrassed to keep talking.

_Damn it! He's too cute!_ Ken couldn't stop smiling. _Hope one day we won't just pretend and become a couple for real_. "So far, I like this excellent idea, though I don't see how it could help lessen that guy's emotions."

"If you'd let me finish for once," Ren muttered.

Ken chuckled and raised his hands defensively. Then gestured to the boy he liked. "Sorry. Go on."

"You'll try to bring me to a... a l-love hotel..." Ren became even redder. Even his ears were red. "I'll say no but you'll insist. Then I'll shout about all the other girls you brought there. You won't take no for an answer and try to force yourself on me. With any luck, the guy will project his jealousy and hate towards you and tried to do something."

Now it was Ken who stared at Ren in disbelief. "You're really going out of your way to make me look like a jerk here, aren't you?"

"It's to help a troubled human, so there's nothing I can do." The priest didn't even bother to suppress the smile.

Ken couldn't help but sigh as he stared that cute face that was enjoying the situation too much.

"Will this really help? I mean, I doubt he'll try to save you. Almost no one would in these situations... How could a scrawny guy like that decides to be the hero?"

"That's why I said with any luck. But even if we don't have any, that's where my magic comes in. All I need to do is give him a little push... into punching you..." Ren grinned with the last words.

"What?" Ken shook his head. "Nop. No way I'm letting that guy hit me."

"Ah, c'mon. It's to help someone in need." Ren got closer and looked up at his friend with his eyes sparkling and full of hope. "Didn't you say you'd help me with anything?"

Ken averted his gaze. Even so, he could still feel Ren staring at him. "You do know you're asking me to pretend to be a jerk and get punched, right?"

"Yes, I'm aware of that." Even now, the priest didn't hide the joy from his voice.

The martial artist should be mad. He knew that, but it was hard under that cute face. "Why would I do that?"

"For me."

Ken opened but then closed his mouth, clicking his tongue. _Damn it... He knows I'm weak to that... I could never say no to him when he said that_... He let out a heavy and defeated sigh _. I thought this date would be a good opportunity to show him my boyfriend side... now I have to be a jerk to him_...

"Fine... but only this once, okay? I don't like the idea of being a jerk to you. Even if it's pretending," he mumbled sourly. "Being punched doesn't sound thrilling either, by the way..."

"Thanks!" Ren beamed, making Ken blushed.

"H-how do you wanna do?"

"A simple and direct approach is best. We'll walk in his direction and have an argument loud enough for him to hear. When you start acting like a jerk, we stop close to him. If he doesn't try to do something, I'll use my magic."

Ken stop to consider the plan for a moment. _It's not bad... minus the part where I get punched later... but acting like a jerk to the boy I like... it couldn't suck more_...

"There's a chance he might leave before we get close enough... especially if we're having a loud argument."

"If it happens, I'll run, bump into him and beg for his help. With a little magic, you'll get punch today."

"You're awfully excited to the part of me getting punched..." Ren said nothing, only smiled. Ken let out a sigh. "Isn't this a lot of trouble for just one guy? I'm not an expert, but I don't remember seeing magical girls going through all this for one person in the animes."

"You haven't watched enough. And it's not like I'm gonna hold his hand for the rest of his life. Even with magic, all I can do is give him a little push in the right direction... Two strangers out of nowhere can't help someone deal with their emotions, but it might be enough to take him out of that dark spiral... "

"So you go through all this trouble?"

"Yes. It's best to prevent an Echo than fighting one. Most times, a push is enough to stop the person from giving birth to more Echoes... But if they don't try, they might get back in that dark place and I'll have to help them again..."

Ken stared at Ren for a moment. "Do you do this a lot?"

The magical girly boy shook his head. "Only when a person gives birth to more than one Echo..."

"How often does that happen?"

"An Echo can be born in two ways. When people are pushed over the limit, their emotions can burst out. When that happens, the source feels better. But the other way..." Ren's face darkened as he grew quiet.

"What's the other way?"

"Most people push their emotions down... they live on, letting their pent-up feelings accumulate and grow... but when they're in a dark place, that feeling of despair can give birth to more than one Echo... and it won't stop until the person can find help..."

_But most people don't_... Ken looked at the boy sitting on the guardrail. Then he looked around at the people passing by. _Anyone could give birth to an echo... everyone has some feeling deep down they don't share... even me... Even Ren_...

Ken ran both hands on his hair and exhaled. Then, with a smile, he wrapped an arm around Ren's neck.

"W-what are you doing?" The cute boy blushed, his voice faltering with the sudden change.

"Since we're doing this, I need to act as your boyfriend... sadly just for today..." Ken said the last part loud enough for the boy he liked to hear. "This much is expected, don't you think?"

Ren pressed his lips and looked at the ground. "Just make sure you let him hit you..." When there was no answer, he looked at his pretend boyfriend. "You know it's the whole point of doing this, right?"

"Making him feel better, not punching me."

"Punching you will help him a lot more than you think."

They stared at each other, neither saying anything.

"Fine, fine... But to let that scrawny guy live the rest of his life thinking he managed to hit me is a little... " Ken didn't hide how much he disliked the idea.

"It's to help someone, so don't make that face..."

"I know, I know... but I'm only doing this for you..."

"Thanks... I'll give you a reward later, okay...?" Ren whispered.

The boy felt his ear burning and his blood rushing. His interest rose at once. "Let's get this over quickly so I can have my reward. I can ask anything, right?"

"I never said that..." Rolling his eyes but smiling, an embarrassed Ren wrapped one arm around his pretend boyfriend's waist. He took a deep breath and led Ken.

The source of the Echoes was still sitting on the guardrail just outside the reach of the convenience store's light. With both hands on his head and staring the ground, he was the image of someone who wanted to be left alone.

_His eyes are dead_ , Ken thought when the guy raised his head for a moment. _Ren's right... we need to give him a push out of that dark spiral_...

When they were close enough, he slipped the hand around Ren's neck down. In a second, it was inside the dress, fondling his pretend girlfriend's non-existing chest.

The priest's face became an alarming shade of red. "What are you doing?" he asked in an angry whisper, trying to get rid of the hand.

Ken didn't let him. As they struggled, his fingers brushed against the nipple, getting a slight moan from his pretend girlfriend. _Ah, crap... that sound was too cute... I wanna hear more..._ With his heart thumping louder, he pinched that delicate nipple once, making his blood gather.

"What's the matter, babe? Why are you complaining at this point? Aren't we going to a love hotel? What's wrong with fooling around a bit?" Ken said in the cockiest and most annoying voice he could.

"W-who said we are going to a love hotel?"

Despite his embarrassment due to the real fondling, Ren didn't forget his role. Thanks to that, not only their target but other people turned to them now.

"Yeah, right... We just had a great date and everything is going well. There's no way I did all that for nothing."

With tears on the corner of his eyes, Ren tried to get rid of the hand on his chest again and Ken let him. "I'm not ready to give you my virginity!"

Ken forgot to act for a moment; he really was surprised. _Damn it, Ren... even I couldn't shout that in public... I have no idea how you're not dying of embarrassment right now_...

Ken snorted when he recovered, putting his hands in the pockets. "Yeah, right. Then why are you dressed like a slut? You're not even wearing a bra." Ken did his best to sound serious despite the huge urge to laugh at the onlookers' reactions. Some were even recording it. "Let's not waste time pretending you don't wanna do it, okay? I don't have all night."

The priest slapped the martial artist across the face with more force than necessary.

"You're a jerk! I had heard from the other girls you were like that, but I was a fool and didn't believe!" Ren shouted, the tears rolling down his eyes as he glared at his pretend boyfriend. "I never thought you'd treat me like this too!"

Ken touched his slapped cheek and showed a wry smile. _That was for real... Ren's getting way into this... He's really expecting me to get hit today... Hope he doesn't forget the point of all this_.

"So you knew about the other girls..."

"Yes! They told me everything!"

Ken snorted again. "And you still agreed to go on a date? So you do want to have sex with me. Stop this show and let's go."

"No, you idiot! I went out with you because I thought you'd changed! But I guess you'll always be a jerk who thinks he can get away with playing my heart just because you're a hot guy!"

"Ha! So you do admit I'm a hot guy!" Ken exclaimed, smiling in triumph, breaking out of character for a moment.

Ren hesitated, his face red for real.

In that brief moment, the pretend boyfriend came closer to the magical girly boy. As he looked into those beautiful black eyes, before Ken realized what he was doing, he leaned down to kiss the boy he liked.

_Ah, crap. I got too into...but I guess it's okay... Though I pictured my first kiss with him to be in a more romantic situation... Just the two of us, not with so many people around_...

They were so close Ken could feel the warmth emanating from the lips he longed ever since he realized his feeling. But before he could have his first kissed, a fist came out of nowhere and hit him on the cheek.

It wasn't strong, but without any defense, it was enough to make the martial artist go down. He placed a hand on the ground, the other on his haw and looked up.

The whole reason they pretended to be a couple, the boy whose negative emotions gave birth to Echoes, hit Ken. Just like everyone around, he had seen their staged fight. But he was the only one who had stepped up and tried to save a cross-dressing boy from a jerk. That moment of courage seemed to surprise even himself.

_For a second there I forgot about him,_ Ken thought, exchanging quick glances with Ren.

With his cheeks an alarming shade of red, he blinked a couple times to understand what had happened. The girly boy took a while to nod.

That was enough to tell Ken his friend had also forgotten about their initial objective. _Guess luck was on our side today._

With his eyes wide as if he couldn't believe what he had done, the scrawny boy panted and held the red fist as he looked down at Ken. When he seemed to recover his sense, his face filled with terror. He grabbed Ren's hand and ran away.

Ken stood up, dusted himself, ignored the stares and the cameras on him, and went after them with all the dignity he could muster. He had no trouble catching up, even with their head start. Despite running at top speed, the boy was too slow.

"I-I think... w-we're... s-safe," the target said, completely winded when couldn't run anymore and stopped a few blocks from the convenience store. He put the free hand on his ribs and took deep breaths.

_Hey, you can let go of Ren's hand now,_ Ken thought, watching everything from a safe distance, the jealousy burning his insides. Despite his urge to run and split them apart, he managed to control himself, though barely.

"Thanks... for saving me," Ren said in a low and tired voice, panting slightly.

Ken knew the priest wasn't tired from that sprint and only pretended to make the target feel better. _Even so, there's no need for him to smile at another boy like that..._ Ken breathed through his nose to contain the anger.

The target became an alarming shade of red, and it had nothing to do with the sprint. He let go of Ren and looked at anywhere but the cute cross-dressing boy before him. "I-I...only did... w-what anyone... would," he mumbled so low Ken had trouble to hear.

"No... There were many people but you were the only one who helped me. You're my hero. Thanks."

Ren's smile was so beautiful even Ken blushed. _Damn it... that smile is supposed to be only for me... Ah, crap... I need to fix this... I don't wanna be one of those jealous boyfriends_...

The pretend girlfriend let out a sigh and pulled a handkerchief from his purse to clean his tears. "I can't believe he turned out to be such a jerk... I was so wrong about him..."

"All hot guys are jerks! Trash who think they're better than everyone! The world would be better without them!" the scrawny boy shouted.

Even the magical girly boy looked surprised by the sudden outburst.

_How much hate he has for hot guys? I thought he was feeling guilty... guess there were more bottled up hate than Ren imagined_.

"Can't believe that jerk managed to trick a pretty girly like you. He's not a jerk! He's a huge idiot jerk!"

"Yes, he is... the other girls warned me about him... I thought he had changed... at least he seemed different when he was around me... but tonight..."

"Girls should know better. Jerks like that don't change."

"You're right. That's what I get for falling for looks instead of personality. Hope next time I find someone like you, who'd stand up to protect a stranger." The cross-dressing boy smiled at him again.

_Hey, Ren, I think that's enough. If you keep this up, he'll fall in love with you. I don't need any rival... not that he could be considered my rival... we're not in the same league... wait, that's not the point_.

"I'm not good... I'm also a jerk who only cares about himself," he muttered, staring the ground. "I said horrible things to someone I liked."

"Hey, don't worry. Everyone makes mistakes," Ren said in a cheerful voice. "If you don't give up, you can make up. And eventually you'll find someone who loves you for who you are. I'm sure."

Even from that distance, Ken knew his best friend's words had more effect than he could imagine. _You shouldn't say something so careless... especially to someone so vulnerable..._

Moments later, he knew he was right; from the way the boy blushed, it was obvious. _That guy fell in love with Ren_... Ken smacked his palm on his face. _It wasn't supposed to go that far... But I can't blame him. Ren's too cute. I know that better than anyone... If only I had realized that earlier_...

"I love you!" the guy shouted suddenly.

_There we go_...

The priest stood still. Then he opened and closed his mouth, but no sound came out. Then his cheeks went a shade of pink as he fidgeted and pressed his lips.

_Oi, Ren! Why are you reacting like that? Stop it! Even though it's so cute I wanna tease you_!

"Ah... eh... T-thanks... but I just found out the guy I liked for so long was a jerk... I'm not ready for a relationship..." He flashed a gentle smile, twirling a lock of his hair.

"But I—"

Ren put a finger on the boy's lips. "I'm happy for your feelings. Tell that to me again in another opportunity."

With the finger still on his lips, the target nodded wordlessly.

"Good. Now I'm sure you're one of the good guys. Even as you get older, please, don't forget that part of you."

They both remained in silence, too embarrassed to do anything.

Ken reached his limit. Using all his self-control stop himself from running to the boy he liked, it took him too long to type a simple message. _Aren't you done yet?_

Ren's phone rang and broke the embarrassed silence. After reading the texted, he looked at his pretend boyfriend hiding behind a tree.

"Apparently everything is already on the net, because my friend knows what happened and is here to pick me up. Once again, thanks for saving me."

The boy opened his mouth but said nothing, lowering his head.

Ren glanced around and kissed him on the cheek.

He looked dumb folded as he touched the kissed place. Before he could react, the cross-dressing boy walked away.

Ken had no words. All he could do was stared at his friend and his first love, feeling his stomach tightening with jealousy.

Ren grabbed his hand and they got out of there was fast as they could.

"How could you... k-kiss him?" Ken finally managed to speak when they were far enough. _Damn it... I know it meant nothing... and it was on the cheek, but seeing Ren kiss another boy... ah, shit! I should've kissed him earlier_!

"I had to... You saw how down he looked after I rejected him..." Ren was red as he explained. "He might have given birth to more Echoes in the future if I had left like that..."

"Did you have to go that far? He had already fallen for you..." Ken grunt as he remembered.

_Now a random guy is Ren's first confession... I wanted to be the first one to confess to him... why didn't I confess when I had the chance_?

The magical girly boy grinned. "Are you jealous?"

"Yes, I am." Ken's serious reply took the priest by surprise. "I didn't like seeing you kiss him. Even if it was on the cheek."

Ren looked down. "M-maybe you're right... I shouldn't have gone too far... but we'll probably never see each other again. And if we do, I could use my magic and make him forget me."

"Yeah, magic... it worked so well the last time," Ken muttered under his breath. Then he added before Ren could say anything, "At least you didn't have to use it back then."

"Yes, I was..." Ren widened his eyes. "Hey, I almost forgot! Why did you say those embarrassing things back there? It almost ruined the plan!"

"You mean saved it. There's no way he'd touched me if I hadn't acted like a huge jerk."

"Don't you mean punched you?" Ren raised his eyebrows, grinning.

Ken looked away and said nothing.

With a sigh, Ren came closer. "Come here."

The martial artist obeyed. "What for?"

"Let me heal you." Ren placed a hand on Ken's cheek.

"There's no need... It's not a big deal..." Despite his words, he didn't pull away.

"It might not be a big deal, but still, let me do this... I know was part of my plan but I don't like seeing you getting hurt..."

_Damn it, Ren! Stop saying things with a cute face like that! You're gonna make me fall in love with you even more_!

Ren healed the simple wound soon enough. But when he was about to pull his hand back, Ken held it.

They both blushed. Without a word, they walked back to the street where they parted ways while holding hands.

"So... do you think that was enough?" Ken asked after a while.

"What? Ah, yes... probably... That wasn't to make him change his ways or anything. It just a little push outside that dark spiral. But in the end, he needs to walk that path on his own. No matter how hard it can be... we all have to..."

"Hopes he stop giving birth to Echoes... I'd rather not be a jerk to you again... even if it's pretending. But it was fun being your boyfriend." _Hope we don't have to pretend in the future..._

Ren kept his silence, squeezing Ken's hand.

"Hey... thanks for helping me... Usually I'm alone or Rin helps me with this kind of stuff... and also other priestesses and priests from time to time... But today was fun..."

"No problem. I'll help you with this whenever you need," Ken said with a smile. But then he stopped. "Though I'd rather not get touched in the cheek. Or seeing you kiss another boy..."

"You'll never admit he punched you..." Ren chuckled, rolling his eyes and shaking his head.

"I never thought the work of a magical girl would be something like this... it was more... how can say... realistic and not so magical...?"

"What did you think it was? Fighting weird evil beings and shooting pink heart beams every week?"

Ken opened his mouth but then closed it, shrugging. "Pretty much."

"There's that too. I mean, minus the pink heart." Ren smiled and chuckled. But then the joy was gone from his face as he held the hem of his dress. "I just never expected I'd be the one doing this... even if my family's been doing for centuries, I thought I could escape..."

_The burden is heavier than he let it seem..._ Ken beamed and placed the free hand on the hair of the boy he liked, messing it. "Don't worry. Now that I'm here, I'll help you!"

Ren smiled as he fixed his hair, his cheeks a shade of red.

"Yes... you're here..."

Chapter 7

Leaning against a tree, Ken texted Shun a reply and put the phone back in his pocket. _Too bad he can't come. It'd be more fun with the three of us. But now I have another date with Ren..._ He couldn't stop smiling as he waited for the boy he liked.

"Sorry I'm late!"

Ken watched as his cutest friend came to a halt and put his hand on the knees, trying to recover his breath.

"I had... trouble...with..."

"It's okay. Breathe."

Ren listened and focused on catching his breath first.

Though it was warmer than yesterday thanks to the sun high in the air, it was still a bit chilly. Despite the weather, the priest wore a black pleated miniskirt, a long sleeved white shirt full of frills, black pantyhose, and Ken's muffler.

The owner didn't want it back. _It looks better on him_ , the boy thought as he smiled. _And I like the idea of Ren wearing it... it's like we're already dating_...

"What...?"

"I never thought you'd dress up so much just for me. Yesterday you looked stunning but it was to help someone. Today... It feels more like we're on a date than going to the bookstore," Ken said with his cheeks a shade of red and shy smile.

Ren blushed. "Shut up! It's not like I'm dressed like this because I want to! I didn't spend a single second thinking what clothes you'd like, okay? It was sis and Goro who pestered me into wearing this!"

Ken tried his best to suppress the smile but failed. _His reactions are the best. I can't get enough of that embarrassed face._ "Sure. If you say so. Either way, you look cute."

Ren averted his eyes. "I'm serious... sis insisted on choosing my clothes when I told her where I was going..."

"Sure. If you say so."

"Stop saying that!" Ren's voice was so loud it attracted some stares. He lowered his head, pressing his trembling lips. "And how could this be a d-d-date when Shun's coming too?"

Ken kept his silence, delighting himself on the embarrassed expression of the boy he liked. _Ren's too cute... no wonder I fell for him... but this is too fun,_ he thought, pressing his lips to hide the smile for as long as he could.

"He's not."

"What?"

"Shun's not coming," Ken spoke slowly, savoring the words. "He just texted me saying there's a surprise online event in a game and he has to help his party. He apologized and said he'll join us next time for sure."

Ren said nothing, trembling slightly as he grabbed the hem of his skirt.

"Did you hear what I said? It's just the two of us. I'm the luckiest guy in the world. Two dates with Ren-chin in a row." Despite part of that was to tease the boy he liked, Ken's smile was genuine. _Back then, I barely had any chance to be alone with him..._ "Since I don't have to pretend to be a jerk this time, I'll show you how good a boyfriend I can be."

Ren's cheeks reddened under Ken joy. He tried to maintain a calm façade but all his efforts crumbled when his friend offered a hand. Turning his head, the priest accepted.

With his heart thumping louder, Ken squeezed a little more, feeling the warmth from Ren's fingers. Even he couldn't stop himself from blushing. _I wanna hold hands with him forever..._

As they entered the subway, even he stopped smiling. Despite being the middle of the afternoon on a Sunday, the cart was full. It wasn't as bad as during rush hour, but they had little room to move.

"Damn it... why isn't the subway empty at this time...?"

"Because of a baseball game... it's an important one, I think..."

_This might not be so bad..._ Due to the number of people, he had to stand so close to Ren they were mere inches away from each other. _Normally he would've gone all tsun and push me away_.

The priest was embarrassed, but since he couldn't change place nor push his friend away, all he did was look at the floor the entire time.

_I can't believe just being close to him like this is enough to make me this happy... I'm such a simpleton_...

They reached the station and headed to the bookstore. Even if Ken wasn't an avid reader, he couldn't help but be impressed when he saw the five store building that occupied a third of the block. _Wow... I never knew we had a bookstore like this..._

Unlike him, however, Ren's face lit with a smile. When he noticed Ken watching him with a satisfied expression, he faltered. "W-what?"

"Nothing... it's just that, I like watching you when you're smiling."

Ren blushed and his smile faded a bit as he looked at the floor. "It's been a while since I came to a bookstore... guess I missed it more than I thought..."

Ken stopped smiling right away. _I am an idiot, just like he says... Because of the magical girly boy's duty, even if he didn't have to, he restrained himself from simple things like this_...

"What are you reading lately? I have no ideas about the new manga... After I woke up, I read just a few series. And I wanna buy _Silver Samurai_. It was in the middle of the last arc, from what I remember... I can't believe the manga had to change magazine because the author miscalculated the remaining chapters... That's just like his own work..." Ken rambled to bring back Ren's smile. It worked, but not as much as he wanted. "I'm open for new stories. Do you have any recommendation?"

Those were the magic words. The smile was back at once. Suddenly Ren couldn't wait as he pulled Ken by the hand to the bookstore.

"Yes! A lot! I read the firsts chapters online the other day and was hooked up. I wanna buy all the volumes! I bet you'll like it too!"

"What is it? A rom-com? A sports manga? Or could it be a magical girl story?" Ken couldn't help but tease the boy he liked.

To his surprise, however, the manga Ren was talking about was an ecchi gore story about modified humans with animal parts in a fighting tournament.

"What? You didn't think I read this kind of stuff?" Ren didn't hide his joy at his best friend's reaction.

"I didn't know you were allowed to read this... are you sure this isn't forbidden for minors?" Ken flipped through the first pages of the latest volume. _Well... it's less violent than the Echoes... but they do show a lot of boobs..._ "You're a boy, so it's expected you like this stuff. But it's weird seeing a magical girly boy reading this type of story..."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"Magical girly boys are like magical girls in their essence. And magical girls are the embodiment of pure and good. They shouldn't get mixed with this kind of genre!" he said, a little too loud, attracting attention from the nearby customers. _Guess I was more influenced by Shun than I imagined... Even if those anime he showed me were the opposite of that._

Ren stared at him in disbelief. "You got weird concepts about magical girls..."

"Mostly I got it from Shun."

"Don't expect me to fulfill those weird expectations." Ren rolled his eyes. Then he smiled as he put the volumes on the plastic basket. "Come! I'm gonna show you other types of different magical girls just to break those concepts."

He dragged Ken to another section of the bookstore. Full of expectations, he picked up a manga with a few cute girls on the cover and handed to his friend.

With disbelief, Ken accepted the manga. _A magical girl story... so far so good_ , he thought as he looked the cover. _Destiny... Destiny...I've heard this franchise before... wasn't a visual novel or something..._?

As he flipped through the pages, he couldn't hide his surprise.

"Is this what passes for magical girls these days? They're kids and they're kissing," he said in a hushed voice.

"That's how they supply mana," Ren said with a serious face.

Then Ken knew where he knew the franchise name. "This is from that 18+ visual novel, isn't it?"

"It's based on it. It grew a lot more than that game over the decade."

Ken flipped through the manga again. _They do kiss a lot for girls... and this isn't even supposed to be yuri... holy crap! What the hell_? In the last pages, the story changed and became serious. _This is actually interesting_...

Under Ren's smug, Ken looked away as he put the volumes in his own basket.

"Good! You seem to understand there are many types of magical girls. Hope you stop comparing me to them. Now go get the manga you want."

Ken narrowed his eye. "I will... but why are you trying to make me go away?"

"I'm not."

"Now I'd rather see what else you're interested." _Maybe you're interested in love stories between boys..._ He kept that part to himself.

Ren ignored his friend and browsed through a few random mangas, flipping through an entire volume when he found something that picked his interest.

After a couple hours, they left the bookstore.

"You've bought so much..."

Ken couldn't help but stare all the bags the priest held. He only bought the last volumes of the series that had ended while he was in a coma, all the volumes of the kissing magical girl manga, and a couple of light novels he found interesting.

Ren, on the other hand, had bought the latest volume of seven series, the complete set of two manga, and all the volumes available of three light novels he had taken an interest.

"Ah, well... it's been a while since I've been in a bookstore... I've been buying everything online for over a year, but a bookstore is different... you find so many interesting stuff you'd normally never see on a screen as you browse the shelves... I couldn't help it," Ren said, flashing an apologetic smile.

"Y-you don't need to apologize..." _Oh, god! He's too cute,_ Ken thought, blushing and covering half his face to hide the smile. Before the boy he liked noticed, he reached out and took most of Ren's bags. "Let me carry for you."

"You don't have to." The girly boy went a shade of red and tried to get the bags back.

"I know. But I still want to. Can you imagine what Ran would say if she heard I didn't carry your stuff? She'd say she could never hand her little brother to me."

_Besides, I know we're both boys, and you can kick my ass in your magical girly boy form, but let me show you my boyfriend side for once_. The real reason he kept to himself.

Ren's face grew pale. "I prefer my sister never find out about this... she'll never shut up..."

"Then let me carry." Ken's smile was too much and Ren couldn't say no.

_This turned out to be a fun date. Much better than I imagined. Thanks for not skipping the game event, Shun,_ he thought as they walked side by side. When the smell of food reached him, the martial artist saw the opportunity to keep the date going.

"It's a bit early, but how about if we eat something?" Ken asked, hoping his voice didn't sound too eager. _It's been a long time since we've had dinner just the two of us_.

Ren looked up in surprise. Then lowered his head. There was the faintest trace of smile on his lips when he whispered, "Sure."

With his heart beating faster, Ken texted his mother saying he would eat out. After putting their books on three rental lockers, they looked for a place to eat.

"It's been ages since I've been to a family restaurant," Ren said as he picked up the menu.

"You don't eat out much?"

"My parents are busy with work. And when we have time, we normally go to some traditional place..."

With a smile stamped on his face, Ken opened the menu, but his eyes were observing the boy he liked. "I forgot you're a high-class boy from a traditional family. I'll keep that in mind for our next date, young master."

"Shut up..." Ren hid his face behind the menu.

Ken chuckled. "How about if you let this lowly boy choose your food, young master?"

Ren considered the proposition for a moment. Then closed the menu.

"So how's your grandpa?" he asked after they made their orders.

"Grumpier," Ken answered right away, getting a chuckle from Ren.

"Really?"

"Yes. And I get him. He's used to being independent, but after he hurt his back and got sick, mom doesn't let him do much."

"That's why you came back?"

"Yeah... we weren't planning to come back. I was even enrolled in a high school. But after grandpa got hurt, there was no way mom was gonna let him leave live alone in that huge house. So now we're all moving back."

"Even your dad and your siblings?"

"Dad's moving to a smaller apartment. He'll remain there for the next couple of months. Probably until summer, when he can transfer back to this town's branch."

_I never gave much thought about how much trouble everyone went through because of me_ , Ken considered. _My family moved to another town to be closer to the hospital. Dad had to transfer, mom had to find a new job, and grandpa had to live alone. All because of that day_...

"My older brother is already living alone. He's starting college next semester. The twins are moving back once the school term ends. They're sad to leave their new friends, but can't wait to see everyone."

"That's so like them. Rin was so sad when they moved away. I bet she'll be thrilled when I tell her the twins are moving back." Ren blushed, smiled and mumbled, "Me too... I'm happy you're back..."

Before either could say anything else, their hamburger steaks came. At the sight of the white fluffy rice, the steaming thick meat melting the butter on top and mixing with the sauce, both boys' stomachs growled. They looked at each other and laughed. "Thanks for the food," they said at the same time.

"Ah... I never imagined a hamburger steak would be so delicious..." Ren's face was brimming with satisfaction when they left the restaurant. "I'm glad I trusted you."

"I told you. You should've seen your face when the waiter brought the food. It was like you'd never seen one."

"I've seen in anime... but I never had one... I normally eat Japanese food..." Ren's cheek went a shade of red as Ken smiled. "And why did you pay for me?"

"I was the one who invited you."

They were talking and laughing, but when they were about to pick up their books on the rental lockers, Ren's face became tense.

He narrowed his eyes and stared in the same direction for a while, clutching the lotus jewel under the muffler.

"An Echo?" Ken asked in a low voice, looking in the same direction as Ren. To him, there was nothing strange. There was nothing of that abnormal cold from the other night.

"Yes... and it seems strong." Ren bit his lips as he glanced at his best friend.

"What are we waiting for? Let's go." Ken urged, but the magical girly boy remained where he was. _He's worried about me_... "I'll be fine."

Ren closed his eyes and nodded once. Though he still hesitated, he ran in the Echo's direction with the martial artist right behind him.

"It's moving... I think it's going to the industrial area..."

"At this time, there might still be people there... And the baseball stadium is just a few blocks..."

They picked up the pace. When they turned into a deserted street, Ren yanked the lotus flower jewel from the chain under the muffler and closed his hands tightly around it. Then, without stopping, he shouted, "Come forth, divine power!"

A bright yellow light covered his body. When it faded, Ren's hair had grown and become golden and he was wearing the magical girl outfit. The yellow miniskirt with the white priestess top and the sleeves that didn't go all the way to his shoulder tied with yellow ribbons. He also wore the yellow high heels with a gold ankle bracelet in the shape of a lotus flower.

"Piercing the skies, Pure Thunder!"

Despite the amazing sight, which made his body shiver with excitement, Ken couldn't help but feel a little disappointed.

"W-what?"

"Nothing... it's just a dream being shattered, that's all..." Ken was more dejected than he thought possible.

"What are you talking?"

"A magical girl transformation is important, you know? It should be flashier... Like instead of the light covering your body and vanishing at once, it should highlight your slim features and only covers the private parts. And then the outfit would appear, piece by piece, enhancing those areas as you float in the air."

The exasperation crossed Pure Thunder's face. "You're an idiot!" he shouted before speeding up.

Ken didn't have time to laugh; he had to give his all to barely keep up with the magical girly boy.

Soon they arrived at the industrial area. As the name implied, it was where most factories in the city were installed. With so many different plants built without any plan whatsoever, the place was a concrete and steel maze.

To their luck, most factories were in the complete dark. But there were a few areas with the lights still on. Straining his ears, Ken could hear faint voices echoing around.

_Crap. There's still people here... someone might see Thunder if he doesn't defeat the Echo soon... or worse, someone could get hurt_.

"Is it close?" Ken asked in a low voice.

"Yes but I can't sense exactly where... Goro too..."

The magical girly boy closed his eyes and remained still. He didn't even seem to breathe as he concentrated.

Ken did the same. As his senses expanded, he sensed something strange in the air. It was almost nothing. Even so, it was enough to make his stomach tighten. _Is this the Echo's energy...?_ No matter how much he concentrated, he couldn't sense from where that sensation was coming.

"Do you know where it is?" Pure Thunder shook his head. "We'll have to look for it then."

The magical girly boy glanced at Ken. "Yeah..."

With Thunder taking the lead, they entered the industrial area. It didn't take long to find something strange. When they headed the northeast area, getting closer to one of the few factories with the lights still on, they heard faint whimpering.

After glancing at Ken with concern, the magical girly boy rushed to the sound.

The cries came from a young adult sitting on the floor. With a deep cut on his arm and a bruise on his cheek, he stared at a deformed shape, too paralyzed to back away.

The Echo was tall and slim, though nowhere near the size of Echoes from the other nights, and it only seemed to have two arms.

Ken narrowed his eyes, trying to see the diffused shape. But no matter how much he concentrated, the transparent shadow remained mostly invisible to him.

_Thunder can see it clearly,_ the martial artist realized when he saw the magical girly boy staring at it. Without noticing, Ken closed his fist. _I need to at least see the Echo if I wanna help him..._

"It looks way smaller than the others," he whispered. "It's gonna be easy for you, right?"

Pure Thunder shook his head, his face tense. "No... The closer to a human form, the stronger it is."

"Is it a Noise?"

Ken felt his throat drying. _An Echo was too much for me... I can't imagine how strong a Noise would be... much less facing one... but I can't just watch him fighting alone_...

"No... not yet... as an Echo gets stronger and smarter, it's form become more human. Either this one has been around for a while, or it was born out of a strong and focused negative feeling..."

"So what do we do?"

Without taking his eyes off the shadow, Pure Thunder pulled a few small rectangular white papers with black ink from inside his clothes. " _I'll_ fight. You place these talismans around the area to ward off people."

Ken took the papers. "Got it. Then what?"

"Then you'll hide. It's dangerous and—"

"I know it's dangerous. That's why I don't want you fighting that thing alone," Ken said in a hushed whisper.

Even in the faint light, the martial artist saw the magical girly boy's expression changing between gratitude and concerned.

"I appreciate the feeling. I really do. But this is my mission. I'm the... magical girly boy...here..." His cheeks became red.

"I know that but I can't just—"

"Look out!"

Before Ken understand what was happening, Pure Thunder held him like a princess and jumped.

The next second, there was a loud crash. The place they were was nothing but a crater now.

Despite not seeing clearly, Ken figured out what had happened. The Echo had noticed them, jumped and tried to crush them. All in seconds.

_It's much faster than the others,_ Ken thought as the magical girly boy put him on the ground and faced the Echo.

Even with the enemy close, all Ken saw was the diffused shape of the monster. _Ren said that the closer to a human form, the stronger it is, but it's still big... probably over two and a half meters_...

Everything in the area became still as the Echo and the magical girly boy stared at each other. Then they both moved at the same time.

The Echo swung one of its long arms towards Pure Thunder.

Despite the speed, he dodged. Without wasting a second, he grabbed the arm and twisted his slim body, trying to throw the enemy down.

It worked. The Echo flew in the air and hit the ground with a loud crash, creating another hole.

Thunder didn't stop. He pulled the arm, bringing the enemy closer. At the same time, he kicked the ground, flying with his fist aimed towards the center of the diffused shadow.

Before the magical girly boy's attack reached his target, the Echo hit the ground with the other limb. It went up and grabbed the wall of a factory, crawling away like a grotesque transparent spider.

Pure Thunder clicked his tongue.

The Echo leapt in the air again.

The magical girly boy stood his ground and raised his arms in a fighting stance.

As the Echo fell, it stretched the long arms, grabbing the walls of two different factories and propelling itself.

_Thunder doesn't have time to dodge!_ Ken realized, the frustration and anguish growing.

The magical girly boy noticed a second too late. He raised both arms and jumped backward.

It was enough to escape the direct attack, but the debris of the crash hit him in full. He flew and fell, rolling on the ground a couple times.

_Ren!_ Ken raced and knelt next to his friend. "Are you okay?"

"It's only a scratch." Pure Thunder stood up and spat the blood on his mouth. "If this was enough to put me down, I'd be a shame to all exorcist."

Ken bit his lips and closed his eyes. Then he flashed a weak smiled. "Then beat the crap out of that. I don't want this to be the last memory of our great date," he said before walking away.

"Leave it to me."

As he ran to face the Echo, the magical girly boy twirled his hand on the air. His small magical stick appeared.

_Shit! Is there nothing I can do? If I could at least see that damned shadow, I could distract it long enough for Thunder to land a finishing blow... I don't have time to think 'what if'! I need to think of something I can as I am now_!

Only then the martial artist remembered they weren't alone. He had forgotten about the whimpering man. _He's the source of the Echo, right? He has to be..._

"Hey...hey!" Even though Ken shook him, it made no difference. There was no reaction.

_He's so shocked he doesn't even notice the fight happening meters away from him_...

"Why... why... Why didn't those idiots realize how great my story is?" The source of the Echo mumbled, his eyes hollow. "Because of them, my dreams are gone and I'll have to... I'll have to..."

_Shit! This guy is useless_!

Before Ken could think of anything, there was a loud crash.

Despite dodging the attacks, Pure Thunder was getting tired. Each time he avoided a blow, he panted more. There was barely any opening for him to use the spear.

_In a closed area like this, his weapon is at disadvantage... he can't even defend himself from the debris_...

As the fight went on, the destruction spread. The kicks and punches and body slams from the Echo, and brandishing the spear from the magical girly boy, left marks on the ground, walls, and lampposts.

_At this rate_...

"Hey! What happened? Who destroyed your dream?" Ken was almost shouting to get any reaction from the source.

"He... he said I had potential... and yet the editors... they destroyed my story... like it meant nothing..." With his hollow eyes, the man muttered to himself. "Why... why..."

"How? How did they destroy your story?"

"They... they said it was shallow... the characters had no appeal and I had to rewrite almost everything... but it was my last chance... I promised my father... if I couldn't become a writer... I'd work in his factory... for the rest of my life..." The man cried and said nothing else.

_Damn... I can't get anything useful out of him_ , Ken thought, turning to the fight again.

Pure Thunder was panting and sweating too much. His left elbow bled and he held the spear with one hand.

The Echo stood in its full height before him, ready to strike once again.

_Ren!_ Without thinking, Ken ran.

Before the Echo attacked, the martial artist jumped and planted both feet on it. Despite staggering the enemy, Ken realized even before he reached the ground; his kick had done no damage.

"Ken! Get away! You'll get hurt!" Thunder shouted, supporting himself with the spear.

"I know. But I'd rather get hurt than seeing you get beat up," he said with a strained smile as he stood up.

"I told you this is nothing but a scratch, you idiot..."

"My body moved on its own. And it's not time to argue. Since you're a magical girly boy, prepare your pink beam or something. I'll distract it in the meantime."

"No! It's my duty—"

"Then hurry up and do it!"

Before Pure Thunder could say anything else, Ken raced to the Echo, which was already facing him.

_Focus_ , the martial artist said to himself as he raised his guard. _Even if I can't see it clearly, I can't lose focus. Not even for a second. If I do, I'll die_.

Concentrating every fiber of his being, Ken kicked where the back of the knee would be in a human leg.

The heavy shadow fell to its knees, cracking the ground. Using one hand, it prevented the fall.

Even without seeing, Ken could tell it was mad as it swung the other arm.

The martial artist crouched, the attack passing inches above his head.

_One blow and I'm out,_ he realized right away; the wind created by the attack was enough to tell him.

Even so, Ken never thought of backing down. _Not when Ren still needs time._

The Echo never stopped attacking. Each blow was fast and strong. But, even with the speed, those attacks were nothing more than someone, or something, relying on strength rather than technique.

_It's nothing compared to grandpa's attack. If I could see it clearly, I wouldn't even sweat_...

The Echo raised its leg. Ken ducked the attack, sneaked behind it and kicked where its knee should be with all his force.

But the Echo didn't fall this time.

_Shit_!

Without turning, the Echo swung the arm backward, attacking him in an impossible way for a human.

Ken raised both arms to block, jumping to the opposite side at the same time. Even so, he flew and smashed against the concrete wall. All the air left from in his lungs, a blinding pain coursing through his entire body. _Crap... again this..._

His vision blurred, and a couple ribs broke. Just breathing was painful.

_Crap... I need to... get out... of the way... before it attacks again_...

The Echo flew towards him with the fist ready.

_I can't get out of the way in time... shit_...

Everything moved in slow motion.

Ken saw the transparent fist getting closer and closer to his head. Even so, he couldn't do anything. _I'm gonna die..._

I'm gonna die before confessing to Ren...

No... no!

I don't want that!

With the face of the boy he liked filling his head, Ken gathered all the strength left in his body.

Before he could do anything, there was a blinding yellow light behind the solidified negative emotion.

Through the diffused body, Ken watched as something blurry pierced the Echo in the middle of the stomach from behind. The next second, the sound of electricity being discharged filled the air.

The Echo screeched and squirmed. Despite the pain, it turned the upper half of its body around to see what had attacked it.

It was the magical girly boy Pure Thunder, holding the magical spear with the wings joined at the top as a spearhead. Despite panting, he screamed. More electricity flowed from the weapon to the Echo, illuminating the area.

Smoke filled the place as the light diminished. The Echo still squirmed, if barely. It tried to swing its arm, but before the limb could reach Pure Thunder, it evaporated, leaving no trace behind.

The spear shrunk and became the magical stick before disappearing from the magical girly boy's hand. He knelt and put his hands on the ground, panting even more.

Ken dragged himself towards him, ignoring his own pain.

"Are you okay?" he asked in a strained voice.

Pure Thunder looked at him and cried.

"How can you worry about me when you're the one who got hurt?" He placed a hand on Ken's chest. "I'm sorry..."

The martial artist closed his eyes as the pain lessening little by little.

"Why are you sorry?" He forced a smile. "That was awesome. Magical girly boys sure kick ass."

Thunder didn't share the smile, the tears falling even more. "I'm so sorry, Ken..."

The martial artist was still panting, but now it didn't hurt when he breathed.

"Hey, thanks for saving and healing me. You're the whole package."

The magical girly boy cleaned his tears and forced himself to stand up. "I'm sorry... I shouldn't have brought you... I shouldn't have involved you again..."

"What are you talking? I'm here because I want. Because I can't stand the idea of you fighting alone every night," Ken said, trying to stand up too. But he had no strength for that yet. "Don't cry. You look better with a smile."

"I'm sorry, Ken... I can't see you getting hurt... not again..."

"Wait..."

Before Ken could say anything else, the magical girly boy left.

Chapter 8

Ken's whole body ached when he woke. _Urgh... it feels like I was hit by a truck... Hope I haven't reincarnated in another world_...

With some effort, he sat up. Despite Ren's healing magic, his muscles were still sore. _At least my ribs aren't broken anymore. And I can breathe without any problem_ , he thought as he got out of bed. _Just I wished this pain was the worst thing_...

Ken glanced at the bags on his desk; only a few mangas were his. Most belonged to Ren. _I can't believe he left everything. He was so happy when we bought..._

After the magical girly boy left, the martial artist went after him despite the pain. But Pure Thunder was nowhere to be found. He wanted to keep looking, but the ruckus of the fight had attracted the few people still working, and he had to leave before anyone saw him.

Ken picked up the magical girl manga Ren recommended and flipped through the first volume again. _He was so excited when he showed me..._

_I have to talk to him and... and... give his manga..._ He picked up his smartphone. As he stared the number and the picture, he couldn't bring himself to make the call.

_Will he pick up_?

Before, Ken never doubted. Never had imagined a day where he might not hear the voice of the boy he liked on the other side of the phone. But now, he wasn't sure. Not after the way the magical girly boy left.

_I'm such a coward_ , Ken thought, putting the phone down. _I can't climb that stupid stair, I can't confess to the boy I like... I don't even have the guts to call him_.

He lied on the bed, sinking his face on the pillow. _This is all my fault... If I wasn't so weak... If I could at least see the damn Echoes, I could do something_.

Even though he had no idea if it would be of any help, Ken went to the dojo. This time without his grandfather around, he warmed up and did the drills. But no matter how much he trained, his mind could only think of Ren.

_He won't ignore me... I know he won't ignore me. He's my best friend..._ Even those words weren't enough to push away the doubts in his heart.

To lash out all his anger and frustration, Ken kicked the sandbag as hard as he could. Once wasn't enough, so he did it again. And again. As many times as he could. When the leg couldn't raise, he used the other. When that leg was too heavy as well, he punched the sandbag.

_Damn it! Damn it! Why couldn't I dodge that attack? If I had, Ren wouldn't leave me like that! Left me because I'm weak! Shit_!

Ken only stopped when he couldn't lift either arm. Panting and sweating, he left the dojo, his heart worse than he came in. After a shower, he went to the kitchen to prepare breakfast.

"Mom...?"

She was already in the kitchen, cooking, and smiled when he sat. "Morning, Ken. Breakfast will be ready in a few minutes."

"Morning... I thought you'd be back at the apartment today..."

"That was the plan but dad was being too stubborn about taking his medicine, so I had to make sure he did."

"I could've done that..."

"Yeah, right. You're too soft on your grandpa," she said, snorting. Then, as she placed the food on the plates, she stopped smiling. "Besides, you look like you have something on your mind."

Ken kept his face empty. But under those stern eyes, he knew he couldn't hide anything. _Mom and her sharp intuition always know everything._

"How did you find out?"

"With those pathetic kicks and punches, there's no way I wouldn't know."

"You saw?"

"I did. I won't force you to tell me. But I'm here for you, son."

Ken pressed his lips for a moment and lowered his eyes. Then he sighed before looking at her.

"Ren and I... got into a fight yesterday. It was... a pretty bad..." He tried to be as honest as he could without revealing the whole truth. _Even if mom knows I'm hiding something, she won't ask directly._ "It brought back old memories and... I'm afraid he might not wanna talk to me... to avoid the pain..."

There was a long moment of silence.

"Ken, do you really think Ren would stop talking to you?"

"I... I don't know... I... I hope not." Saying that was more painful than Ken imagined. "He still feels guilty about my accident... the fight brought all that back... He might think it's safest for me to stay away from him."

"Do you agree?"

Ken wanted to say no right away. But under his mother's gaze, the boy relieved everything that had happened since reuniting with his first love.

_It's safest if I stay away from him...but... even if it's dangerous, I don't wanna lose him again. It's not just because I like him... Ren's my best friend. Ever since I can remember, we've been friends. I can't even imagine not being his friend... Even if I don't confess, I don't wanna stay away from him_!

"I wanna be by his side," he said in a firm voice, looking his mother in the eyes.

The woman showed no expression. Then she flashed a tiny, almost sad, smile. "Then you already know the answer, son. Don't let Ren run away just because he feels guilty. It's not healthy to bottle your emotions like that."

Ken felt his heart lighter as he heard those words. "Thanks, mom."

After breakfast, he left the house. Though Ren had school today, he knew he could catch him on the way.

The martial artist waited on the swings on the park, watching the street. _Where is he...? He should be here by now... I know he read my text..._

Ken wrote he would wait at the park with the books, though not all, in case the priest tried to get his manga and leave. He mentioned nothing about last night's fight.

_Ren will come, right? I mean, he was eager to read these mangas. He won't just leave them, right? And besides, I know he wouldn't skip school because of this_...

But after an hour of people coming and going, Ren hadn't shown up. _I'll try again after school_ , Ken thought as he headed home.

The day went by slowly. Nothing he did could distract him.

After what felt an eternity, it was finally the time for the students to leave school. _Ren's not in any club, so he should go straight home now..._

Instead of the park, where the magical girly boy could avoid him, Ken headed to the temple. _I'm not being too pushy. People go to temples all the time. And I don't need an excuse to see him... Ah, damn it! I shouldn't be this nervous! Even with the way he left yesterday, he's my best friend_!

Once again Ken stood before the stone stair leading to the temple. _Just climb. Like you did all the time back then. To see Ren... For Ren_...

When he put the foot on the first stone step, his scar ached.

Does that mean I can never visit Ren again?

_No way... I refuse... I need to overcome this! I will overcome this_!

Ignoring the pain, he forced himself to place the foot on the first step as well. His scar burned. _Shit!_ He gritted his teeth. _This is nothing!_

Panting, he stepped the second step. When his foot touched the stone, the pain grew. With his mind on the edge of fainting, the memories of that day flooded his head.

_What_?

Ken didn't see a clear picture, but among all the blurred images, there was one thing he could see; Ren crying and apologizing to him. _It's just like yesterday..._ _And I told he looked better with a smile than crying back then too._

_I am an idiot... He's not feeling guilty for what happened back then... That day is a trauma to him_.

Despite the pain, Ken climbed another step. _There's no way I'm gonna let my best friend face that trauma alone. It wasn't his fault... I was the one who wanted to go back to the temple that day. Just like yesterday_...

"What are you doing here?" a voice came from the top of the stair. With the sun behind him, Ren looked out of this world.

_Even in boyish clothes, he looks cute,_ Ken thought, his heart pounding faster. At the sight of the boy he liked, he couldn't help but feel happy, even with the pain.

"Hey, Ren. Nice of you to come all the way here to see me," he said, forcing a smile. "I texted you, but for some mysterious reason, I had no answer. So I had come all the way here to give you the manga you forgot yesterday."

Ren's eyes watered, but he kept the firm expression. "Thanks. You can leave it there," he said in a strained voice, crossing his arms.

"Why don't you come down here?" Ken raised the heavy bag. "I've read Deadly Fangs. It's a little too violent for me, but the girls with animal ears were cute. I can see why you liked it so much. If you cosplayed the cheetah or the bunny, you'd look even cuter."

Ren unfolded his arms, his firm expression faltering.

_I knew he was too interested in the manga_ , Ken thought as his bait worked.

Ren pressed his lips and came down the stairs, stopping a few steps from his friend. He reached out his arm.

Ken handed the bag slowly, showing he had no other intentions.

But the moment the boy took the books, the martial artist grabbed that slender and delicate wrist.

Ren didn't struggle. All he did was keep his head down. "Let me—"

"I'm not letting you get away," Ken said in a strong voice, his face determined. "Not again."

The priest's lips trembled. "What do you want?"

"What do I want? To talk to you! To see my best friend!"

"Fine. Let's talk." He didn't meet Ken's eyes.

"Why did you ignore me all day? Why did you leave like that yesterday?"

"It's best for you... you shouldn't get involved with me again..." Ren's voice was low and barely audible.

Ken pulled Ren closer, forcing the boy he liked to look him in the eyes. "Says who?"

"It's obvious!" Ren shouted, the tears rolling down his face. "When we're together, you get hurt. It happened twice already and I don't want that! I don't wanna see you getting hurt because of me ever again! I... I can't stand the idea of losing you... I can't... I prefer to stay away from you..."

"It wasn't your—"

"Yes, it was! If I hadn't bring brought you yesterday, you wouldn't have gotten hurt. If I had said something, you wouldn't almost have died a year ago!" He cried even more.

_How long has he been holding on to this?_ Ken tried to hug him, but Ren didn't let him.

"Don't touch me... you'll only get hurt again..."

"That's for me to decide. Just like yesterday. I was the one who followed you."

"I let you! I should've said something! I should've stopped you! That's why I can't get involved with people... I don' wanna see them get hurt because of me... especially you, Ken... I don't wanna lose... when you got hurt because of me, I... I..."

Ren couldn't speak anymore; he was crying too much.

Ken wrapped his arms around the priest, hoping that was enough to comfort him. But before he could say anything, the ground shook.

Without thinking, he embraced the boy he liked tighter. They fell from the stairs and hit the ground, but thanks to the martial artist, Ren wasn't harmed.

As fast as it had started, the ground stopped shaking.

"Are you okay?"

Ren wasn't listening. He was staring at something, his red eyes wide and full of terror.

When Ken looked, he couldn't believe what he saw.

An Echo.

It was small, almost the size of a huge human, and even the martial artist could see it.

_So that's how it looks_?

It was a cluster of heavy and twisted shadow in the shape of a human. It had no face, but there was a lipless mouth and two large and empty eye sockets.

When the hollow eyes met Ken's, all his instincts screamed; this Echo was far more powerful than all he had seen.

"See?" Ren's voice was as miserable as his expression. "Whenever you're with me, you get hurt..."

"Wait, that's—"

"Run," the priest said, standing up. Then he looked into Ken's eyes. "Please..."

He walked towards the monster and yanked the lotus flower stashed away under the muffler. "Come forth, divine power!"

As the light enveloped him, his shirt and pants disappeared and were replaced by the magical girly boy outfit that resembled a priestess clothes.

"Piercing the skies, Pure Thunder!"

The magical girly boy didn't waste a second. He twirled his hand and closed the fingers on the magical stick the moment it appeared out of thin air. As he ran the palm over the shaft, the stick grew and the wings on the head opened and joined at the top to form a spearhead.

He leaped towards the enemy, thrusting the weapon at the head.

Instead of dodging, the Echo grabbed the shaft with one hand and swung the spear together with the owner.

The magical girly boy didn't let it go and smashed against a tree with a scream.

"Thunder!" Ken stood up despite his shaky legs. _Damn... I need to do something... but what can I do_?

"Don't come! Go away!" the magical girly boy shouted, using the spear to support himself. After he recovered his breath, he jumped and landed before the Echo, trying to pierce where the vital points would be in a human.

_You idiot... Like I'd ever leave you alone_...

Despite his speed, the magical girly boy didn't hit the Echo.

_The more human it looks, the stronger it is... shit! Is this a Noise? If it is... Am I just supposed to watch him fight? Do nothing while my best friend is in danger_?

_I'm the same from a year ago_!

The magical girly boy tried and tried, but he couldn't land a single strike on the Echo.

And what was worse, the condensed twisted emotions was getting faster. Soon it wasn't only dodging, but attacking, the razor-sharp fingers grazing Thunder's skin.

_Why is the Echo getting faster...? Is the source close_?

But there was no one around. There were only him, the magical girly boy and the Echo.

Ken placed a hand on his pocket; he was still carrying the talisman to ward off people.

With a sinking feeling, he realized.

It's my Echo... born out of my emotions... out of my guilt and frustration for not being able to do anything... back then and now...

_Ren's getting hurt because of me_...

As those words echoed in his heart, the Echo got faster, and its strikes sharper.

The magical girly boy now only avoided or blocked the ones aimed at his vitals points.

Shit... I can't be thinking those things... it'll only make it stronger...

_Is there anything I can do_?

_I can say I'll get stronger and help Ren, but that's not enough... it's just empty words_...

Pure Thunder let out a screamed and jumped backward; he was hit on the shoulder, and it was bleeding badly. Without taking his eyes from the enemy, he knelt and pressed the wound.

_Screw it! I can't stand this_!

Ken raced and jumped. Stretching one leg, he put all his weight behind and hit the Echo on the side.

It was barely enough to make it stagger. But it was enough to distract it.

"Ken! Don't!" The magical girly boy shouted, trying to stand up.

"I don't care if you think I'll only get hurt being around you. I'm an idiot, and I'll get hurt wherever I am. If so, I'd rather get hurt by your side," Ken yelled, taking a fighting stance between the boy he liked and the Echo.

"That's a stupid thing to say," Pure Thunder said in a low and defeated voice. "It's so like you..."

Even without looking, Ken could tell his best friend had a wry smile.

This would be the perfect time to confess my feelings...

_But I don't have time to think about that! I need to focus or I'll die this time_.

The Echo shortened the distance between them in the blink of an eye.

_Fast! But not as fast as seconds ago,_ Ken realized as he ducked the kick, sensing all the strength behind the attack inches above him.

For a brief second, he let himself smile. _So it worked... It's not about thinking, it's about the heart. I'm showing the determination to get stronger for Ren's sake. I'm trying to overcome what happened that day... And that's stronger than my guilt and frustration!_

_I have to focus on my future with Ren, not the past_!

Taking a deep breath, he shouted in his heart. _I'll marry that boy one day!_

The Echo tried to stab Ken's head with the razor sharp fingers.

With every ounce of concentration he had, the martial artist redirected the deadly blow with both hands.

As the condensed fingers stabbed and punctured the ground, he didn't waste a second thinking. Out of instinct, Ken put all his weight and smashed his elbow right where the stomach would be in a human.

The Echo screeched and bent one knee, placing the hand on the wound. He sucked the air with a strange sound, as if gasping.

_It's working! My determination is really making it weaker_! Before the enemy could stand or attack again, Ken punched it on the chin. _Even so, it's still heavy_!

The monster fell backwards with a thud. The martial artist tried to stomp on its face, but it rolled with an amazing spend.

_It's as Ren said. It's not just stronger, it's smarter,_ Ken realized, raising his guard as he rushed to the enemy.

The distance the Echo had gained vanished. It had barely stood up when the martial artist attacked again.

_Don't let it recover. Don't let it think. Don't let it breathe. If I do, I'll die_.

With those words in his heart, Ken closed his fists and struck where the vital points would be in a human, hoping it would have the same effect on his Echo too.

Ken did not stop. Every punch, every kick, every elbowing contain all his weight. Each attack hurt him too. _Shit! This damn monster is hard!_ Even so, he didn't hesitate. _I know I can't defeat it. I just need to give Ren time to recover!_

But he had his limit. A year without training had left its toll on Ken's stamina and strength. When the pain was too much, when his fists and his feet became too heavy, his attacks became weaker.

The Echo didn't waste the chance. When Ken aimed at its neck, the solidified emotions grabbed the fist by the wrist.

_Shit_!

Ken saw the punch coming. But all he could do was brace himself, holding his breath and tensing the muscles on his stomach. Even so, the pain was too much.

He flew a couple meters in the air, fell on the ground and rolled until he stopped at the stone steps of the temple. Blood filled his mouth. He choked and spat, trying to breathe at the same time.

"Ken!" Pure Thunder shouted.

Despite seeing double, the martial artist forced himself to stand. _There's no way I'm falling here... not now... not with Ren watching me... I need to show him... that I'll follow him... no matter what_.

The Echo leapt forward, covering the distance between them in seconds.

_My body hurts too much to dodge... So I'll have to redirect and counter_...

As he tried to gather his strength, a crackling yellow flash smashed against the Echo, sending it away several meters.

Ken had no reaction. Then he couldn't stop smiling. _Ren's not only cute... he's cool too,_ he thought, holding his left shoulder. _No wonder I fell for him._

The magical girly boy had covered his body with a crackling yellow aura. Sparks of lightning appeared and vanished around him, sizzling the air as he flew towards the enemy.

The Echo tried to block the spear. He held it by the shaft and avoided being pierced, but the strength behind the weapon was too much. Even the monster couldn't do anything as it flew and smashed against the wall, creating a hole.

"Ken!" The magical girly boy raced towards him.

"Hey, Thunder. Thanks for jumping in," he said, smiling despite the blood spilling from the corner of his lips.

"Stop talking, you idiot." Pure Thunder placed his hands over Ken's stomach. Despite his harsh words, there was only worry in his voice.

The martial artist closed his eyes as the now familiar warm magic coursed through him.

"Hey, you're getting better at this," he joked to break the heavy mood.

"A stupid practice dummy appeared in the last few days," Pure Thunder whispered, the tears falling despite his smile.

Before he finished healing, the Echo got out of the hole. The magical girly boy looked between the enemy and his friend, biting his lips.

"Hey, you're gonna ruin your lips if you keep doing that." Ken let out a weak laugh. "I wanna kiss them one day soon, you know?"

The magical girly boy blushed and chuckled. "If you can say stupid things like that, it means you're better."

The Echo raced towards them.

_Crap... it's faster... it's recovering... some part of my heart is giving it more strength_...

Pure Thunder put his arm around Ken and jumped. Despite everything, he was still graceful as ever and didn't seem as if he carried someone heavier than him.

"This is why we need to stay away from each other," he said in a low voice as they flew for a moment. "This is the world I belong. I don't want you getting involved and hurt."

Ken showed a weak smile. "I know that... but you've said it yourself many times. I'm an idiot. A hopeless one, on top of that. I love you too much to stay away."

The magical girly boy went an alarming shade of red. "You _are_ an idiot," he mumbled. They landed on top of the stone stairs of the temple. "Stay here. I'll finish this."

"Go get it, honey."

Ken watched as Pure Thunder flew down at an amazing speed. In mere seconds he was swinging his spear against the Echo.

Unlike him, the magical girly boy was strong. His attack didn't just hold down the Echo; it was hurting and pushing it back.

_Amazing... Ren truly belongs to another world_...

_I need to give my all to stay by his side_.

The moment he thought that, the Echo became a bit faster and Pure Thunder had to avoid the razor sharp fingers.

_Damn it... I can't think those things... these feelings are making the enemy stronger_.

Ken closed his eyes and breathed, alleviating his pain a little. _Even if Ren belongs to a different world, even if he's much stronger than me, I won't leave him. I won't leave my best friend alone again... no matter what, I'll stay by his side._

Because I love him.

_I fell in love with him a long time ago. I won't let anything stand between us. Even if it's my own Echo_.

Just as he hoped; his resolve made the enemy weaker.

Pure Thunder managed to stab it on the shoulder.

Even from up the stairs, Ken heard the screeches of pain.

The Echo clenched its jaw and swung the unharmed arm.

The magical girly boy pulled his spear and got out of the way in time.

When it hit nothing, the Echo grabbed a boulder from the cracked wall and swung. But its target wasn't Pure Thunder. It was Ken.

The martial artist dived out of the way.

Even though he was safe, the magical girly boy looked at him full of worry.

In that brief moment, the Echo jumped, joined the hands and brought it down with all its strength.

Thunder got away in time, but when the fists smashed against the stone, the ground exploded, sending debris everywhere.

Without resting, the Echo swung one arm.

Despite using the shaft of the spear to block, Pure Thunder was sent flying.

_The Echo got stronger? But how? A moment ago it was_...

Ken widened his eyes. _It's not only my guilt and frustration... it's Ren's too... That Echo was born out of our feelings_!

"Pure Thunder!" Ken shouted as loud as he could, making him pant a little. Both the Echo and the magical girly boy turned to him. "Don't worry about me! I'll be fine. I'll find a way to get stronger. So focus on defeating that monster born from our feelings!"

Pure Thunder turned back to the Echo. Then he flashed a faint smile. "Got it, Ken. Now sit tight and I'll be right back."

The Echo raced towards him, but even Ken could tell it was much slower. _So I was right... we're the source of that monster_.

The magical girly boy's spear shone with yellow sparks, just as his body.

The Echo tried to punch with the good arm, but it was too slow now.

Without much effort, the magical girly boy dodged. Soon his spear was shining brighter. A crackling noise of lightning and thunder filled the entrance of the temple.

Pure Thunder pierced through the Echo's heart.

"Monster born out of our hearts," he shouted above the noise of his weapon. "Disappear!"

With a deafening sound and a blinding light, the spear discharged all its power.

Even the Echo's screeches were muted by the thunder.

When the yellow light was gone, there was only a thin vapor of dark.

Pure Thunder fell to his knees, panting.

Ken raced down the stairs as fast as his body allowed, almost tripping. "Ren!"

The magical girly boy looked up at him with a tired face. But then he found strength to show a smile of victory.

Ken couldn't help but smile and cry as he offered a hand. "You're so cool..."

Ren blushed and took the hand.

Epilogue

Ken woke up with his body aching. At least it's not as bad as yesterday.

He opened his eyes and blinked a couple times. _An unknown ceiling,_ he thought lazily as his vision became less blurred. Ignoring the pain, he forced his mind to work.

_After the fight, Ren and I came to the temple... he said it was to make sure I was healed... and then... then_...

The more he tried to remember, the more his head hurt. _Ah, damn it... I think I fainted after some acolytes from the temple appeared. I think I was too relieved when I confirmed Ren was alright_...

_Ren..._ The face of the boy he loved appeared on his head, making him smile. _Everything is fine with us..._

As Ken yawned and scratched his chest, he realized he wasn't wearing his own clothes. Instead, he wore a white comfortable yukata. _Feels a lot like those clothes for ceremonies,_ he thought, running a hand over the soft fabric.

Only then he heard a light breathing by his side. At once he became wide awake. With his heart thumping loud and his cheeks reddening, he realized was lying next to Ren. _Why is he sleeping here with me? Why are we wearing the same clothes? Why I can see his cute nipple?_

Ken felt the blood rushing somewhere it shouldn't as he realized his best friend's clothes were a little loose. _It's so pink... almost like a girl's... but I know he's a boy... a boy that was born to cross-dress... If he put guy's clothes now, he's gonna look like a girl trying to cross-dress_.

_If he wore my clothes, wouldn't it be like wearing the boyfriend shirt_?

_Ah! What the hell am I thinking? Better not tell him that. It's gonna make him mad. Wait... I kinda wanna see him wearing my shirt now... Ah, damn it, Ren! You stir me in a lot of ways_!

"...can't believe he barely woke and is already gawking Ren-chin with lustful eyes," a high pitched voice said. "Well, I can't blame him. Ren-chin is so defenseless when he sleeps. And his sleeping face is too cute, with those alluring pink lips slightly open. Any health boy would gaze at this sight from heaven. I wonder what he'd say when he finds out Ren-chin had to lie naked on top of him to help heal him..."

"Erh... hello...?" Ken asked, trying to find the source of the voice. "Just to clarify, I'm not looking at Ren with lustful eyes yet. I'm just basking myself with the face I haven't seen in a long time."

"Wait, you can hear me now?" the voice said, not hiding the surprise.

"Yes... Who are you? Where are you? And what was that about Ren lying naked on top of me?"

"I'm down here. Guess you didn't notice me with Ren-chin' chest exposed. But, once again, I can't blame you. Hardly anyone would notice me with such delicious nipple in plain sight."

Ken looked at his best friend's chest again, trying to ignore the nipple he suddenly had the urge to kiss. Only now he saw the lotus flower pendant Ren wore as a neckless and was the source of his power.

"The jewel he uses to transform?" he said, leaning closer. "Goro?"

"Yes, it is I, Goro." The pendant moved up and down, bowing.

Ken's face lit with a smile. "I can finally hear you, master Goro!"

"Yes. It's great we can finally talk. I don't know why only now, though."

"It doesn't matter. I've been dying to meet the great existence who made Ren dress as cute as he should. Thank you." Ken bowed to the jewel.

"You're welcome."

For some reason the martial artist imagined a cute fantasy like animal smiling and waving a tail. _Guess that's a cliché for magical girls, huh? Even if the magical girl is a boy._

"Let's put that aside for now," Goro said, suddenly serious. "There's something I need to tell you."

Ken stayed quiet.

"Yesterday's fight was dangerous. Ren-chin has always been reluctant to get close to anyone ever since he had to assume the mission as an exorcist. But he accepted you."

"He has? I feel more like I forced myself..."

"Yes, that's true. But he didn't push you back. He needs you more than you can imagine."

Those words put a smile on Ken. "He does?"

"Yes." Goro floated up and down in a nodding movement. "In other words; he may not be worthy, but please take care of him."

"I will cherish him for the rest of my life."

"Excellent! Now we need to put him in more cute outfits. I've always tried to get him to wear a swimsuit, but I never managed."

"What? That's an absurd! Someone as cute as Ren needs to wear a school the school swimsuit! The navy blue one! Ah! But I want to keep that sight to myself."

"I totally understand the feeling. But so far he's managed to avoid the swimming lessons with a special permission from his dad. But if you around, we can team up. I'm sure we can convince his dad to stop gerh—?"

A delicate hand grabbed the jewel, clutching the precious stone with all the strength those slender fingers had.

"I wake up and the first thing I hear is you two talking nonsense?"

"Ren!" Ken smiled. "Good morning!"

"Morning... my ass! What the hell are you two talking so early?"

Ken and Goro looked at each other. Then to Ren. "Ways to get you to wear more cute clothes," they said in unison.

"Shit... that's why I was hoping idiot number 1 never meet idiot number 2," Ren mumbled, messing his bed hair with the free hand.

"Idiot? I'm your partner! I'm part of your soul!"

"Then why you keep spouting stupid things so early? I don't remember ever being stupid!"

"What about you? You're the one trying to seduce Ken by showing your cute pink nipple!" Ren looked down, flushed and pulled his clothes closer. "That reaction was too precious! Thanks for the treat so early!"

"Agree, master Goro!"

With his face all red, Ren yanked the jewel from the chain and shoved under the pillow. Then he lied the head on top of it. "Ah... much better. Now I can't hear him anymore."

Ken could only laugh as he watched.

"What...?"

"It just reminds me of the past... you always had the best reactions when I teased you. I loved that. I'm glad it didn't change."

Ren pulled the covers to hide half his face. "Shut up... can't believe you can say so much nonsense so early..."

"I'm just being honest. We have to be. At least with each other," Ken said in a serious voice. "Otherwise we'll have a problematic kid again."

"Don't talk like that Echo was our kid..."

"It was born from our feelings. We can't let the past dictate our future." Ken enveloped Ren's hand and looked the boy in the eyes. "We need to be honest with each other, okay?"

Ren's face became an alarming shade of red and he covered himself with the covers. "Fine... can't believe you can say things so embarrassing..."

Despite his words, Ken could sense the boy he loved was smiling under the covers.

"Why are you two so flirty so early?" a drowsy voice said. "Can't you wait at least until breakfast?"

Ken turned around at once. Thanks to Ren's pink nipple, he hadn't noticed the girl lying next to him at all.

Just like Ren, her clothes were loose, almost exposing her breaths. If not for the thin robe, she would be completely naked.

"Ran!" Ken exclaimed. It had taken him too long to recognize his childhood friend.

"Hey, Ken. It's been a while," she said, stretching her arms. After a yawn, she leaned closer to the boy. "Look at that... I haven't seen you in a year and you've grown so much..."

"Get away from him, sis. Why are you here?" Ren tried to push his sister as far as he could from Ken. At the same time, he pulled his childhood friend closer.

"Ara. You don't remember? After we healed Ken, I healed you."

"I remember that. But why didn't you go back to your room?"

"I was tired, so I ended up sleeping here. And what's the matter? Is just like old times, when the three of us had sleepovers."

"But now we're... you're..." Ren blushed and didn't finish the sentence.

"I'm what, little brother?" Ran asked, her teasing smile affecting her younger brother too much.

"Nothing..."

The grin filled the girl's face.

"Ken, there's a lot we need to catch up. But before that. I heard you proposed my little brother. Is that true?"

"What? I haven't even confessed yet!"

"Didn't you say you'd stay by his side no matter what?"

Ken's face lit with comprehension. Ren's, on the other hand, got redder and redder.

"Oh, yeah. I did say that..." Ken turned to the boy he liked. Then back to Ran and bowed. "I promise I'll make him happy."

"Stop talking stupid things!"

"Ara, little brother. If you don't want him, I'll take." Ran pulled Ken by the collar and embraced the martial artist.

The boy blushed as he felt her warm breasts pressing against his face.

Ren noticed right away. "Let go of him, sis!"

He jumped on her, falling on top of Ken.

The martial artist could only laugh.

_This feels like those days,_ Ken thought, smiling as the sibling struggled with him between them.

Afterword

Thanks for reading.

Hope you enjoyed the Magical Girl is a Boy 1.

If you have some time, please leave a review. It'd really make my day.

I wanted to write a story like this for a while. There aren't enough magical boys in skirts, especially involving romance with another boy.

Though I did use some of the tropes of magical girl stories, I hope I managed to entertain you. This can be considered a battle magical girl, but with a boy.

I can't wait for Ken to confess his love for Ren. Too bad he's too slow on that part.

You can read the second volume right now. Just go to my Amazon page.

And if you want to keep up with my other stories, sign up to my newsletter.

I'd like to give a special thanks for Ysis Cobra for the cover art. It's too cute and cool, just like I imagined Ren.

Once again, thanks for reading.
