**Episode 019: The Cries of an Ending World and a New World**

After aligning our information and with no particular Shadow attacks, we were able to take a slow break. The next day, we discussed our future life.

“Firstly, shall we decide not to join any evacuation facility and make this our base?”
The first decision we had to make was whether to join a community in some evacuation facility.

“Can you endure being controlled by those unlikable adults?”
“I don’t want to.”
“Yeah, me neither.”
I, who was used to living alone, found it challenging to live with others, and with an increase in the number of people, conflicts would arise, along with more rules and restrictions. I couldn’t endure that. Satoshi and Shuji seemed to feel the same way, and unanimously, we decided to live here on our own. With the power I acquired and the magic bag, we should be able to live comfortably even with just the three of us.

While there are many drawbacks to belonging to an organization, the benefits one receives are quite limited. Communities might not be able to provide much for individuals who can secure their own food, supplies, and safety.

Above all, I couldn’t bear not being able to dedicate prayers to the beloved work “Assassin Girls” itself and the figures of heroines clad in tight suits.

Ah… the real bodysuits were truly amazing…

I unintentionally recalled Yuna and Kana, who wore suits.

Despite being twins, their contrasting body lines were both wonderful. I wondered if they were able to fit in at the evacuation facility. If I ever get to meet them again, it would probably be after this area becomes safer.

“Now, the biggest issue is food.”
“Yeah.”

The next topic was food. While verifying our abilities was essential, since we can currently defeat Shadows, we wanted to prioritize solving this problem.

“A practical option would be to enter a supermarket or shopping mall and collect supplies. Or we could target the inventory held by restaurants.”
Currently, the city’s functions have come to a halt. That’s natural since there are no working people. The electricity, gas, and water that are still functioning may not last long. It might be a good idea to store plenty of water just in case… No, I can conjure water with magic.

Regardless, since we currently can’t buy food, the only immediately available means is to take supplies from places with ingredients. Of course, growing our own food is an option, but that requires a long-term commitment. It might be good to bring seeds or seedlings, though.

“Yeah, that’s right. Since it’s only been a day, there should still be some left. So, if we go to a larger supermarket or shopping mall, we should be able to procure supplies to some extent, right? Rokudo-kun, you also have that bag.”
“Not just the cheat, but you even have something like that. Rokudo-sama is truly something.”
“Well, it’s not that big of a deal… Okay, it is!!”

I had told them about acquiring the magic bag, so I proudly showed off, enjoying their reactions.

“Don’t get too carried away, you!”
“Hahaha.”
Shuji grabbed my neck, and I couldn’t help but laugh at the familiarity of the interaction.

“So, what’s the plan? Are we all going?”
“Maybe it’s better if one person stays here. I don’t think it’ll happen, but we should consider the possibility of this place being taken over. In terms of abilities, it would be either Rokudo or me, but I think I’m more suitable for this.”

Even though it might be lonely to be alone, Satoshi volunteered himself.

“No worries.”
“Well, it’s fine. I’ll be using this time to verify my own abilities.”

I lightly apologized for making him feel that way, and Satoshi responded as if it was nothing. That’s just how he always is, elusive and not revealing his true feelings.

“Yeah, that’s right. I haven’t fought yet, so I need to verify my abilities properly.”
“Then, during the time the one staying behind verifies their abilities, the one going out should hunt Shadows and level up as much as possible.”
“That’s crucial. If our levels go up, I can take over the staying behind duty.”
We decided on the roles for those staying at home and those going out. If Shuji’s level increases, even if Shadows attack, there won’t be much of a problem. If that happens, he can take over staying behind. Once everyone can stay behind, we can rely on Satoshi’s stealth ability when needed, expanding the scope of our actions. Leveling up is crucial.

“Yeah, from now on, the world will be governed by those with combat prowess and abilities that are useful in the current situation. Moreover, only one type of Shadow has appeared so far, but that doesn’t mean there won’t be others. Considering that, it’s better to level up early.”
“Got it. Initially, I’ll support Shuji and thoroughly raise his level.”
“Hey, don’t get too carried away…”
Responding to Satoshi’s words, I got enthusiastic, and Shuji frowned, as if asking him to spare him.

I had thought of something similar, but I agree with Satoshi. Already, on the internet, videos and tweets abound showing the Self-Defense Forces and the police being annihilated by Shadows. In this state of almost complete destruction, it would be tough for Japan’s police and Self-Defense Forces to maintain public order against awakened individuals.

From what I can see on the internet, this phenomenon is happening on a global scale, and the world will undergo a significant change in the future. In such a world, the one who holds power will have the say in everything. Whether it’s to protect oneself, precious things, or to assert oneself, combat strength will be essential.

“I’ll fight properly too, but I’m counting on you to cover our backs.”
“Yeah, leave it to me.”

Shuji and I bumped fists. After having breakfast using the food from the refrigerator, we set out for resource procurement and leveling up.

At that moment, I had no inkling that I would encounter fate once again at our destination.