kazema

The elderly woman does not answer, only nodding just slightly to Kazemaru as she goes, walking into the halfway melting crowd.

Kazemaru turns around to see the old woman lean the crutch she was using on a street corner. On closer inspection, she realizes it is just a mop handle.

The woman's figure disappears into the crowd.

Kazemaru did not get to see her face clearly, but just barely notices a beautiful headband resting among the old lady's white hair.

That was...

Maybe because I was behind you the whole time? But take your time, okay? I'll help you serve it.

Alright. Thank you, dearie.

My pleasure. I know you've been buying medicine for the Infected and have even come to help cook today, so this is the least I could do.

The old woman smiles, and reaches out to tuck stray strands of hair back under her headband.

Ooh, that hairband of yours is so pretty.

Really? I'm glad you think so—I made it myself.

(That hairband...)

(Was that the old woman I helped out before?)

Kazemaru pats her outfit. In the past few days, she has been constantly swapping from one role to another—sometimes she's a naive student, sometimes a government worker, and sometimes just a local.

Perhaps that is the reason she went unrecognized. Perhaps the old woman merely wanted to express her gratitude to a stranger.

Kazemaru notices some new, unfamiliar faces in the crowd, and has no clue who they are.

But even so, she recognizes the kindness and effort from these strangers too, and feels a little invigorated.

Time to head back to the office to sort some files and make a report.

A few days later

'This report summarizes the recent situation in Caladon. We witnessed a relatively threatening anti-Infected rally.'

'But with help from the police and several anonymous residents, the unrest was quickly quelled.'

'The city council has also received the new Infected bill and is redesigning the city quarters to ensure the Infected and non-Infected will be able to live in peace together.'

Her report complete, Kazemaru pauses for a thought.

'Though we have encountered many difficulties, there are many more besides us who are also doing their best to prevent the situation from worsening.'

'Some frustration is inevitable, but as long as we persevere, the situation will definitely improve.'

Kazemaru puts down her pen, folds the report, and slots it into an envelope. She then quickly changes into her recorder outfit and walks out the door.

She feels as if she is experiencing the long-lost feeling of being a ninja.

In fact, she is no longer operating solo. Around her are many other 'ninjas', with hidden names and identities, who have been working in silence to turn things for the better.

She looks toward the government building not too far away. Caladon's city council is about to hold a special meeting soon.

'However, we will need a little more time to handle this.'