Chapter 8: Unforeseen Consequences
Morning sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow over my small, unfamiliar room. I stretched, still grappling with the reality of my situation. The events of the past few days had been nothing short of overwhelming, thrusting me into a world that defied logic and explanation.
The aroma of breakfast wafted through the air, and my stomach rumbled in response. I shuffled to the dining table, where a plate of eggs and toast awaited me. As I ate, I mused over the twists and turns that had brought me here—the cosmic manager, the decision to become Kurumi Tokisaki
Just as I was finishing my meal, the sound of the TV caught my attention. The news was playing, and the anchor's voice was grave.
"...terrorizing the city, the elusive villain known as 'The Nightmare' has left authorities baffled and residents on edge," the anchor reported. "Several recent incidents point to a dangerous individual with an unknown appearance, leading to fears that this villain's reign of terror may continue."
My eyes widened as the name resonated through the room. "The Nightmare..." A wicked smile tugged at the corners of my lips as I realized that the very villain they spoke of was none other than me.
I'd been sending my clones to eat more people to get more time. And by doing so, it looked like I've made a name for myself.
Just as I was finishing my meal, the phone on the table buzzed. An unfamiliar number flashed on the screen, and I answered with a mix of curiosity and caution.
"Hello?"
"Is this Kurumi Tokisaki?" a voice on the other end inquired.
"Yes, speaking," I replied.
"I'm Officer Nakamura from the local police department. We'd like to speak to you about an incident that occurred a few days ago."
My heart skipped a beat. Had the police somehow figured out I am the Nightmare? Have they figured out who I was?
"I'm listening," I said, trying to keep my tone composed.
"We've received reports that you were involved in a confrontation with a villain," Officer Nakamura explained. "Non-heroes engaging in vigilantism is against the law, and we need to gather more information about your actions."
I sighed a sigh of relief and continued.
"I understand," I said, my voice measured. "I didn't mean to break any laws."
"We'll need you to come down to the police station to provide a statement," Officer Nakamura stated.
"Of course,"
* * *
As I entered the police station, I found myself in a small interview room across from Officer Nakamura. He was professional yet approachable, his eyes keen with curiosity.
"Thank you for coming in," he began. "We just want to get a clear understanding of what happened during the confrontation with the slime villain."
I recounted the events truthfully, explaining how I had encountered the villain and acted to protect others. Officer Nakamura listened intently, jotting down notes as I spoke.
"Nonetheless," he said once I had finished, "engaging with villains can lead to dangerous situations, even with good intentions. We have trained heroes to handle these matters."
"I understand," I acknowledged, feeling a mix of humility and responsibility for my actions.
"We won't press charges this time," Officer Nakamura assured me. "But please remember to prioritize your safety and the safety of others. If you come across a similar situation in the future, contact the proper authorities."
Walking out of the police station, I was reminded once again of the complexities of this world. It was a place where rules were meant to maintain order, and where even the well-intentioned could find themselves in unforeseen predicaments.
"I probably should refrain from eating people for a while…"
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone