Hello! My name is Johnny, and I'm a monster.

I know, it sounds strange, but it's true. What's even stranger is that I look just like a normal human. My eyes are a deep shade of blue, with vertical line pupils—a peculiar feature that sets me apart from humans, yet somehow blends in just enough. Typically, monsters have piercing red eyes, and so do I. But here's the catch: my eyes only turn red when I get angry, which doesn't happen a lot. The rest of the time, they remain a lovely, tranquil blue.

Being a monster in a human world has its own set of challenges. People struggle to accept me for who I am, especially my classmates. I can't blame them though, it's not their fault. But I never cared much for their opinions. Instead of letting their judgment weigh me down, I decided to embark on a journey of my own—a journey that would take me through various worlds and introduce me to extraordinary adventures. I even joined an organization that sends me on thrilling missions. Trust me, it's been quite the ride.

Through my travels, I've faced countless challenges and obstacles. Some I managed to overcome, but to be honest, most of the time I failed. Yet, despite the setbacks, I've learned so much about myself and the world around me. It's been a rollercoaster of emotions, but I wouldn't trade it for anything.

So, dear reader, I invite you to join me on my extraordinary journey. Dive into a world where the lines between human and monster blur, where resilience is tested, and where adventure awaits at every turn. This is a tale of discovery, courage, and the relentless pursuit of self-acceptance.

Welcome to my story. Let the adventure begin.

***

In the vast expanse of the Universe, billions of galaxies swirled, each harboring its own unique inhabitants. Some of these galaxies were enchanted realms, brimming with magic and wonder, while others were dark dominions, home to demons, devils, and monstrous beings. Though the universe appeared endless, many races remained blissfully ignorant of the existence of other planets or galaxies, their lives confined to their own small corners of the cosmos.

For eons, this tenuous peace prevailed, but it was not to last forever. That tranquility shattered one fateful day when a powerful monster named Perseus emerged with a sinister ambition: to conquer the universe. Declaring war, Perseus embarked on a path of destruction, obliterating planets for his own twisted pleasure.

To counter this dire threat, Omega, the most formidable and powerful magician renowned across many worlds, took decisive action by establishing an alliance known as The Universal Shield Alliance (USA).

This coalition, a beacon of hope, united the greatest magicians and warriors from across the cosmos. Composed of the most formidable individuals in the universe, the USA rallied to confront Perseus and his fearsome army, driven by a singular purpose: to defend the inhabitants of the cosmos from any and all dangers.

The Universal Shield Alliance challenged Perseus to war, and he gladly accepted. They agreed to meet on Planet Astralis, a desolate planet far from any inhabited worlds.

Perseus arrived with his monstrous army and seven formidable generals, their dark forms casting eerie shadows across the barren landscape. Opposite them stood the USA, the strongest magicians and warriors the cosmos had ever known, their presence a beacon of hope and power.

The ensuing battle was fierce and relentless. The USA fought with every ounce of their strength and skill, their determination unwavering. Despite their heroic efforts, the cost was immense. Countless lives were lost, and the scars of the battle were etched deeply into the universe itself, a somber reminder of the devastating clash between light and darkness.

In the end, Omega succeeded in sealing Perseus away, ending his reign of terror. However, the victory was bittersweet. Perseus's seven generals, equally malevolent and powerful, managed to escape, their whereabouts unknown.

The USA had won the battle, but the war was far from over. The threat of Perseus's generals loomed large, a constant reminder of the fragile peace that Omega and the USA had fought so valiantly to preserve.

The Current USA (500 years later)

Membership in the USA was not granted lightly. Only those with extraordinary abilities, who could prove their worth through rigorous tournaments or direct selection by the organization, could join.

Many recruits came from humble beginnings—orphans and the abandoned, with little to their names but a fierce determination to protect what little they had. This shared resolve to serve as beacons of hope in an often cruel and unforgiving universe bonded them together.

The USA boasted over 94,000 members, each one dedicated to safeguarding the countless realms within their respective galaxies. Among this impressive roster were the Guardians, twelve individuals who stood above all others in combat proficiency and magical prowess. These Guardians were nearly invincible, their names alone striking fear into the hearts of even the mightiest foes.

The Guardians were renowned not only for their unparalleled skills but also for their unwavering devotion to their team and the greater good. They faced countless challenges with unyielding courage and determination. Despite the overwhelming odds often stacked against them, they stood their ground, ready to confront the unknown. Their kindness and bravery knew no bounds, and together, they formed an unbeatable force, a beacon of hope in the vast and mysterious universe.

Together, these twelve Guardians formed the core of the USA's strength. They traveled across galaxies, quelling uprisings, defeating dark lords, and maintaining the delicate balance of peace in the universe. Their deeds became legends, stories told across stars to inspire hope and courage. In the face of unending darkness, they remained a constant light, proving time and again that even in the vast, often cruel universe, there existed forces of good, ready to defend all that was just and true.

....

In the midst of a fierce and chaotic battle, Amano Tsuchimikado, the First Guardian of the Universal Shield Alliance, fought with unmatched prowess. His blade danced through the air, slicing through demonic foes with precision and grace. The battlefield was a cacophony of clashing steel, roars of monstrous beings, and the cries of the wounded. Amano's every move was a testament to his training and dedication, his figure a blur of motion as he cut down the enemies threatening his world.

Amano and his allies fought fiercely, battling the monsters that lurked in the ruins. The air was thick with smoke and the sounds of chaos, but Amano's keen senses were sharp as ever.

Amidst the turmoil, he detected an unusual presence. Peering through the haze, he glimpsed a small, vulnerable form lying on the ground—a baby. His heart raced. Someone must have dropped it while fleeing for their lives.

Driven by an instinct to protect, Amano dodged between the crumbling walls and debris, his eyes never leaving the tiny figure. As he drew closer, the details became clearer. The baby had striking blue eyes with vertical pupils—an unsettling sight. Amano's breath caught in his throat as he realized the source of the anomaly: it was a baby monster.

Yet, despite its monstrous origins, what struck Amano most was its appearance. The infant looked completely human, with soft, innocent blue eyes gazing up at him. In that moment, the battle raging around him seemed to fade into the background. All he could see was the helpless creature before him, reaching out with tiny, delicate fingers.

But Amano’s training kicked in. He got his compusure and raised his sword, ready to eliminate the potential threat. Yet, as he stared into the baby’s eyes, he found himself hesitating. The innocence in those eyes spoke to him, evoking memories of a time before he was burdened with the mantle of a Guardian. The rules were clear—monsters, regardless of their form, were to be eradicated. But in that moment, Amano’s heart wavered.

He battled with his conscience, the blade trembling in his grasp. The child’s innocent gaze never wavered, and Amano felt his resolve crumble. With a heavy sigh, he sheathed his sword and gently picked up the baby. It was against everything he had been taught, but something deeper compelled him to spare the child. Cradling the infant in his arms, he knew he needed guidance from a higher authority.

Amano summoned his teleportation magic, chanting the incantation that would open a portal to Master Ubayashiki's mansion, the leader of the USA. As he spoke the ancient words, a circle of radiant light began to form beneath his feet, intricate runes glowing with ethereal energy.

The air around him crackled with power as the circle expanded, its edges shimmering like a mirage. Within moments, a gateway materialized before him, a window of swirling luminescence that offered a glimpse of the serene gardens of Ubayashiki's mansion.

With the baby monster cradled securely in his arms, Amano took a deep breath and stepped through the portal. The world around him shifted and blurred, the sounds of battle fading into a distant echo. He felt a brief sensation of weightlessness, as if he were floating between dimensions.

On the other side, Amano emerged into the tranquil courtyard of Ubayashiki's mansion. The gateway shimmered behind him for a moment longer before collapsing in on itself, the light dimming and the runes fading into nothingness. The portal sealed with a soft, final whisper, leaving no trace of the magic that had created it.

As Amano stepped out, he found himself enveloped in a place of serene beauty. The air was rich with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, their colors vibrant against the backdrop of lush greenery. Ubayashiki's mansion stood gracefully amidst a sprawling field of blossoms, its architecture elegant and inviting.It was a stark contrast to the brutal world he had just left behind.

The tranquility of the surroundings soothed Amano's troubled mind, offering a momentary respite from the chaos of battle. He took a deep breath, the tension in his shoulders easing as he glanced down at the baby monster in his arms.

He held the baby tightly, its small form secure in his arms. As he looked around, Amano spotted a lady tending to the flowers nearby. Her presence was calming, her movements graceful and deliberate. Gathering his thoughts, he approached her, his voice gentle and respectful.

"Hello, ma'am. I have come here on an urgent matter. Is Master Ubayashiki around?"

The lady turned to face him, her expression serene. She gave a slight bow before speaking softly, "I will give your message to him right away. Please wait here."

As she disappeared into the mansion, Amano stood among the flowers, the baby nestled against his chest. He couldn’t help but reflect on the events that had brought him here. The child’s innocent face contrasted sharply with its monstrous origin, leaving Amano questioning the strict rules he had always followed.

Amano Tsuchimikado stood in the serene garden, holding the baby monster in his arms. Conflicted emotions churned within him as he pondered his actions.

"We Guardians are supposed to slay monsters, not save them," he thought to himself. "In this world, monsters and demons aim to conquer the universe, and our duty is to kill them and bring peace."

Yet, here he was, cradling the very being he was meant to destroy. He glanced down at the baby monster, whose innocent eyes gazed back up at him.

"He is a monster, but he looks like a human," Amano muttered under his breath. "Damn! What am I even doing?"

As he stood there, lost in thought, a gentle breeze whispered through the garden, carrying the delicate scent of flowers. It reminded him of the beauty of nature, of how everything in the world had its own purpose and place. The contrast between the battlefield's chaos and the garden's tranquility seemed to symbolize the inner conflict he was experiencing.

Suddenly, the sound of approaching footsteps broke through his reverie. Master Ubayashiki, clad in an elegant kimono, emerged from the mansion, a gentle smile on his face.

The leader of the Universal Shield Alliance exuded a calm authority, his presence immediately reassuring. His presence exuded a calm authority, and his eyes, wise and understanding, took in the situation immediately.

Amano quickly knelt, holding up the baby monster. "Master, how are you?" he asked.

Master Ubayashiki looked at the baby Amano was holding, noticing the vertical line pupils characteristic of the child. Despite understanding what Amano was doing, he politely inquired for more information, saying, "I am doing well, Amano. And what do we have here?"

Amano took a deep breath before speaking. "Master, I found this baby on the battlefield inside the ruins. It looks human, but it's actually a monster. I was about to end its life, but I couldn't bring myself to do it. I'm not sure what to do."

Master Ubayashiki's gentle yet penetrating gaze rested on the infant and then on Amano.

"So, what do you suggest we should do with it?" he asked.

Amano felt a lump in his throat. He remained silent for a minute, gathering his thoughts, before finally finding his voice.

"I don't know, Master. That's why I came here seeking your advice."

He took a moment to steady himself, then continued, "Master, as the Guardians and protectors of this universe, we are faced with a unique situation. This baby monster appears to be entirely human. I know our rules dictate that we must kill monsters, no matter what, but..."

Master Ubayashiki nodded thoughtfully and with a smile. "I see. So, are you suggesting that you want to raise it, despite it going against our rules?"

Master Ubayashiki was direct, almost as if he had read Amano's mind.

Amano was momentarily taken aback by the directness of the question. He hesitated, but after a moment of careful consideration, he answered.

"Yes, Master. If you permit it, I am willing to raise this baby monster. I understand the rules, but my desire remains."

Master Ubayashiki's expression softened, a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his mouth.

"Amano, I always believed that you harbored a deep hatred for monsters, yet now I see a different side of you. You are quite soft-hearted."

Amano lowered his gaze, feeling a mixture of embarrassment and relief.

"Master, I... I don't know what came over me. When I looked into its eyes, I saw innocence, not the malevolence we are trained to fight."

Master Ubayashiki placed a reassuring hand on Amano's shoulder. "I understand that this is a special case, and I can see by the look in your eyes that you are determined to raise it."

Amano Tsuchimikado knelt deeply in the serene garden, his head bowed in a gesture of respect. He cradled the baby monster close to his chest, his heart racing with a mix of hope and anxiety.

"Master," he began, his voice steady but tinged with urgency, "I know this goes against the rules, but I still want to raise it. Please grant me permission.

The sun began to set, casting a warm, golden glow over the garden. As the light bathed them, Amano felt a renewed sense of purpose. He knew that raising the baby monster would not be easy, but with Master Ubayashiki’s blessing and his own steadfast determination, he believed it was the right path.

Master Ubayashiki stepped closer, his elegant kimono swaying gently with each movement. He gestured to Amano to rise from his kneeling position, and Amano stood up. Master Ubayashiki extended his arms, and Amano carefully handed the baby monster to him. The Master cradled the baby, his expression thoughtful.

"If this baby monster grows up to be a fine individual, I have no objections," he said, his voice calm yet firm.

However, his tone took on a cautionary edge as he continued, "But if it goes out of control, you will be held responsible for it."

Amano's resolve hardened, and though hesitant, he responded with conviction, "I will take full responsibility, Master."

Bowing deeply, Amano's face lit up with gratitude. "Thank you, Master. I am sincerely thankful," he said.

Master Ubayashiki, still cradling the baby monster, nodded reassuringly. "I will inform the other Guardians as well," he assured.

He continued softly, "However, it's important to note that some of them may not approve. It goes against our rules."

Amano glanced down, his expression tinged with nervousness. "I understand that they won't agree, but I will find a way to persuade them... somehow."

"I also hope they will come to understand," Master Ubayashiki remarked while meeting Amano's gaze.

Gently, Amano took the baby monster back into his arms, cradling it protectively. Kneeling before Master Ubayashiki once more, he expressed his gratitude.

"Master, thank you for your time. I shall take my leave."

With determination fueling his steps, Amano walked a short distance away, his mind racing with thoughts of how to care for the child and the challenges that lay ahead. He channeled his magic, weaving the incantation that would open a portal. A shimmering gateway appeared before him, rippling with energy.

As Master Ubayashiki watched Amano leave, he gazed up at the night sky, lost in thought.

"I wonder what kind of future awaits that boy," he mused quietly. "Will he bring about the greater good, or could he become a threat to us? Despite my uncertainties, I choose to believe his path will lead to a better world."