Shinji Matou At Your Service

Chapter 177: Dualities

"That's my story with Shiki, even though it happened two years ago," Mikiya said with a calm tone, not much different from his usual demeanor. But both Touko and Shinji could sense the deep affection and devotion hidden beneath his calm exterior and gentle voice.

It was precisely because of this that Shinji genuinely wished him the best, and Touko, a person who cared little about worldly matters, was willing to help an ordinary person like him, almost selflessly.

"So, did she stop growing then?" Touko asked, resting her chin on her hand, lost in thought.

"Based on my understanding, the only way for the body to completely stop growing is by becoming a 'Dead Apostle,' but that doesn't seem to fit your description," Shinji replied, brushing off the weariness on his face as he sat up from the couch.

Dead Apostles are a classification of vampiric beings.

Vampires are primarily divided into two major categories: "True Ancestors" and "Dead Apostles."

"True Ancestors" are innate vampires, a distinct species from humans since birth. They are special beings among vampires, akin to ancient "elves" or "primordial deities" predating human history.

It's worth mentioning that "True Ancestors" don't have a physiological need for blood. They are classified as vampires because they have a certain defect from birth, which is the urge to drink blood. All True Ancestors crave the blood of the very beings they should be restraining—humans. Blood is to "True Ancestors" what drugs are to humans. Once they taste it, it's hard to resist the temptation, and they can only continue to feed, filling the void in their souls.

"Dead Apostles" are acquired vampires, and they are the prototypes of vampires found in various legends and stories. The majority of vampires in the world are Dead Apostles.

Dead Apostles are essentially humans who have undergone certain processes of evolution. Some are "Former Dead," turned into vampires after being fed upon by True Ancestors, while others are magus who have transformed through special rituals to prolong their lives.

Regardless of the method, once one becomes a Dead Apostle, it signifies a change in their form of existence. From the moment of becoming a Dead Apostle, the body enters a state similar to death and stops growing. To maintain their near-immortal bodies, Dead Apostles must regularly consume blood, much like how humans need to eat. It's an instinct for survival that cannot be denied.

"Yeah, if she had become a Dead Apostle, she would have woken up and started to drink blood a long time ago. She can't lie in bed for two years," Touko agreed with Shinji's explanation.

"Then how do you write her name? It's written with a single character in Kanji, right?"

"Her name is Shiki, spelled with the character '式.' What's the matter?" Mikiya gestured slightly, slightly puzzled.

"The 'Shi' in Shikigami, and her surname is 'Ryougi.' It's just too perfect," Touko murmured to herself, a hint of disbelief flashing in her eyes.

"Why, are you interested?" Shinji asked, implying something.

"Yeah, I'm very interested. What about you?" Touko admitted frankly.

"I'm also a little interested. Well, since you're planning to get involved, I won't bother worrying about it. I already have a lot on my plate. By the way, if you discover anything, remember to let me know."

Although he appeared casual, Touko still sensed something unusual between Shinji's brows.

"You... seem to know something?"

Shinji unconsciously scratched his head. "Well, kind of, but it's not something important. The source of the information isn't reliable either, so I won't say it to avoid affecting your judgment."

"I have a feeling you're hiding something. Whatever, the hospital is in the outskirts, right? I'll go take a look."

After receiving Mikiya's affirmative reply, Touko grabbed her coat and hurriedly walked towards the door.

As Touko left, Mikiya let go of the documents in his hand and locked eyes with Shinji.

"Shiki... Does she have some kind of issue?"

"More accurately, it's not an issue, but rather uniqueness."

Shinji wasn't surprised by Mikiya's perceptiveness.

"I don't know if you've noticed, but your girlfriend isn't an ordinary person. She's a being similar to Miss Touko and me."

"Yeah, I know."

He had known for a long time, but he didn't care.

"A person like that can never live a peaceful life. Are you prepared for it, Mikiya Kokutou?"

"Prepared? I don't know if I am, but no matter what happens, I'll be by her side and believe in her."

Mikiya's smile was warm, like a cask of aged wine, exuding the intoxication accumulated over time.

"That's enough then. Never forget the words you said today," Shinji patted Mikiya's shoulder firmly. "To understand the uniqueness of the Ryogi family, you must first uncover the secrets of the Ryogi family. The information I have on this is very limited, mostly speculation. The only thing I can tell you is that the Ryogi family is one of the 'Four Great Exorcist Families.' The rest, you'll have to investigate yourself."

"The Four Great Exorcist Families, huh?" Mikiya immediately took out his notebook and started jotting it down.

"Considering that the Ryogi family hasn't interfered in your relationship with Shiki for so many years, they probably won't do anything to you. But still, be cautious. If they issue a warning to you, back off immediately."

"Understood."

"Also, take these with you."

Shinji reached into his waist pouch where he stored rune stones and took out three of them.

"The square one provides five minutes of protection; the triangular one temporarily enhances your physical abilities, allowing you to run faster; the circular one is a distress signal. If you encounter danger, crush it depending on the situation. After all, I'm the one sending you to investigate, so I should ensure your safety."

"Thank you very much," Mikiya expressed his gratitude while carefully stowing away the rune stones.

"No need to thank me. I have something to ask of you as well. While you investigate the Ryougi family, gather information on the other three families as well—the 'Four Great Exorcist Houses': Ryougi, Fujou, Asakami, and Nanaya."

"Asakami?"

"That's the family Fujino comes from. After going bankrupt three years ago, they disappeared from the scene. Just keep an eye out for where they might have gone. As for the other two families, put in a little more effort, but remember, just a little. Don't delve too deep. I'll set a limit for you—your investigation should only be within the boundaries of the city of Misaki. If you need to go outside, stop there."

"Got it."

Mikiya was prudent in his actions. If it didn't concern Shiki, he never tried to be overly ambitious.

"Should I go now?"

"Go now. I'll inform Miss Touko, and I'll temporarily take care of the work at the agency."

Five minutes later, the spacious office was left with only Shinji. He moved the only phone used for external communication to the coffee table, then lay back on the table, his eyes half-open and unfocused.

"Ryougi Shiki, huh? Ryougi Shiki... Taiji gives birth to the Two Principles, Two Principles divided into Yin and Yang, Yin gives birth to Yang, and Yang gives birth to Yin, a spiral of contradictions that is already the most perfect equation. Compared to that, someone with only a single personality falls a bit short."

"Heh, Nasu-sensei... You really choose that name for Shiki."

PS: The original divine spirits are derivatives of planetary will, and there is no difference from the concept of True Ancestors.