Astartes 18th Legion – Salamanders Conquered World-Eleven, Tourism World – Sector Eleven, Tokyo Metropolitan Area, Chiba Prefecture.
Morning in Chiba had already become a bustling affair. The streets were crowded with traffic, busy shops, and a steady stream of pedestrians making their way through the increasingly towering cityscape.
As the sun rose, the city stirred to life. Voices blended into a growing hum—crowds thickened, shoulders brushed, and the metropolis awakened with vibrant energy and prosperity.
Massive virtual screens, neon-lit signage, towering Astartes statues, decorative fountains and gardens, marble archways adorned with fluttering banners, and the ever-present golden double-headed Aquila were everywhere. Suspended trains zipped along magnetic tracks, security bots marched along set paths, cleaning drones shaped like metal barrels hummed along the sidewalks, and armored patrol officers kept vigilant watch.
People hurried through their routines, greeting acquaintances with brief yet courteous nods. Hope was etched on the faces of many—it was the look of those who believed in their lives and their future.
Last night, a new batch of soldiers from the Auxiliary Eleventh Legion had returned from deployment. Many of them hailed from Chiba, and with so many relatives living in close proximity, it was only natural that family gatherings and joyous celebrations followed. Homecomings and rewards had brought warmth and festivity to the neighborhoods.
Beyond that, it was plain to see—life was visibly getting better.
The Salamanders Legion, known for their compassion toward ordinary citizens, maintained a culture of care and equality across all their conquered worlds. They gave their utmost effort to help postwar colonies recover, patiently guiding them through reconstruction and development.
While they may not have been as efficient as the First Legion Dark Angels, the Second Legion Punishers, or the Thirteenth Legion Ultramarines, no one could deny the Salamanders were peerless when it came to harmonious coexistence with civilians and the overall well-being of the people in their territories. Not even the Ninth Legion Blood Angels could match them in this regard.
Of course, all of this came with one condition: loyalty to the Empire. Pay your taxes, do not rebel—simple.
Really, all that had changed was the ruler. The former emperor had been replaced by the God-Emperor of Mankind, and instead of a cabinet bound by corporate interests, the people now answered to a centralized, all-encompassing Great Government under an appointed planetary governor.
To the common folk, not much had changed. Life carried on as usual, perhaps even improved. The ones who truly suffered were the old aristocrats, tycoons, and elite heirs—no longer able to abuse their wealth and influence.
...
Chiba XXX Residential Complex – Hikigaya Residence.
A fusion of cyberpunk, neo-Gothic, and traditional Japanese architecture gave the house a curious, time-warped aesthetic. Despite the hodgepodge of styles, it carried a distinct charm.
As a proud Chiba native, Hachiman Hikigaya was more than pleased with how far his hometown had come.
Still bleary-eyed from a good night's sleep, toothbrush in hand, Hachiman stood on the second-floor balcony, tapping the freshly reinforced rail. The house had undergone renovations recently. He nodded in satisfaction.
"What?! You're saying a crackdown is coming? That I shouldn't go out?"
"Onii-chan, were you hit too hard by a shell or something on the battlefield? It's return season—soldiers are coming home everywhere. Who would be stupid enough to cause trouble now? Waaaah, Komachi's so worried about you!"
Just then, dressed in cute mint-green pajamas, Komachi Hikigaya came barreling down the hallway—rushing out just like old times when she'd deliver a surprise headbutt during one of their sibling spats.
But her brother was no longer the same. With a single outstretched finger, Hachiman effortlessly held her back.
"Alright, Komachi, how many plans have you already made for my vacation?" Hachiman asked with an exasperated sigh, knowing all too well the mischief his little sister was capable of.
"Onii-chan, today is the first day of your vacation! Have you already decided how you're going to spend it? I mean, this time you don't have any homework, and you even get a stipend—wahhh! I'm so jealous!"
Avoiding a direct answer, Komachi latched onto his arm with exaggerated tears in her eyes. It was obviously fake crying, but still endearing.
After last night's feast and celebration, Komachi had gone to bed early, worn out from the festivities. Meanwhile, Hachiman had taken the time to talk with their parents, sharing what he had witnessed at the spaceport—how Imperial security had increased, and especially the arrival of the Astartes Angels. He also mentioned the incident on the geo-orbital elevator.
He suspected that a high-ranking official had arrived, and gently suggested that they reconsider their original travel plans. Staying home seemed like a much safer option. Not only could they enjoy long-overdue family time, but it also aligned perfectly with Hachiman's true desire—to relax.
Despite years of grueling military life, battles, and survival, now that he was back home, the urge to be a shut-in came back stronger than ever.
His parents, after hearing his reasoning, agreed.
Life in the Empire was generally good—especially on local worlds like this one. Many mid- and lower-level officials were locals, and while the class hierarchy was technically rigid, it didn't manifest so overtly in day-to-day life.
The real danger came when someone from the Empire's core sectors or a high-ranking noble arrived on an inspection tour.
Those people? They really could decide life or death with a single word.
There was once a high-ranking family in Europe—elevated to intercontinental administrative roles thanks to good postwar cooperation. But one arrogant son, disrespectful and reckless, made the mistake of offending an Interior Inspector during a routine visit. He was killed on the spot, and his entire family was exterminated. Worse still, the scandal implicated thousands more through association.
That incident had been a wake-up call for many.
Yes, the colonies looked prosperous—but that prosperity existed only because of the Empire's massive trade network and infinite resource flow. At its core, the Empire was still a highly centralized, brutally hierarchical state.
Survival came first. The odds of encountering someone that powerful were slim—but why take the risk?
There would always be other opportunities to travel and have fun. No need to rush. For a humble family like the Hikigayas, especially with a son who had shed blood for the Empire, their best path forward was to remain still and stay safe.
Komachi had likely overheard the change in plans from their parents, and now she was here, being her usual clingy self. Hachiman ruffled her hair gently.
"So you finally reveal your true intent."
He tapped his chest with confidence. "It's safer to stay home, sure—but we can still explore around Chiba a little. Onii-chan got a decent amount in stipends and rewards. Just say the word and I'll order whatever you want online."
"Yay!"
Scratching the back of her head sheepishly, Komachi beamed. She wasn't really upset about not going on a long trip—she wasn't a selfish child. She just wanted to act spoiled for a bit.
"You said it, Onii-chan! And just so you know, that little speech of yours earned top marks from Komachi-chan today!"
She pumped her fist, stuck out her tongue playfully, gave her head a light tap, and dashed off with a grin.
"Hachiman! For heaven's sake, brush your teeth at the sink! Don't bring those military habits home—you'll set a bad example for Komachi! And hurry up, breakfast is ready!"
Mrs. Hikigaya's mildly scolding voice echoed through the house, prompting a faint smile from Hachiman.
"Coming!"
At the dining table…
"Onii-chan, hurry up!" Komachi shouted while holding a fork and knife in hand, already seated and dressed in her day clothes.
"Komachi! No yelling at the table! How many times have I told you that? Where are your manners?!"
"Ugh…" Komachi slouched under the sharp gaze of their mother. In a small voice, she murmured, "But Onii-chan just got home. I was a little excited, that's all."
"Alright, alright."
Having finished washing up and changed into a simple, dark green T-shirt, Hachiman sat down. The short sleeves revealed thick, corded muscles beneath—his physique honed to a state that radiated quiet strength and dependability.
Mr. Hikigaya couldn't help but remark, "He's grown up—really grown up. He's the pillar of the family now."
"Dad, can we save the emotional monologue for later? Let's just enjoy this happy family time for now. Ahhh, delicious!" Komachi cheerfully declared, popping a piece of tamagoyaki into her mouth and smiling blissfully at her brother.
"Yeah."
Hachiman nodded in agreement. The colorful spread on the table, full of flavorful aromas, gave him the distinct feeling that everything he had endured had been worth it.
Traditional dishes like miso soup, natto, and onigiri were joined by ingredients from distant worlds—things they could've never afforded before.
He recognized them right away. Some might've been purchased just for his return, but the presence of alien seafood and large beast meat in the fridge showed that his military pay had truly elevated the family's quality of life.
"Onii-chan, I was originally going to take you to the Moon Banquet Festival today. It's the opening day, and it's being held by the prestigious Tōtsuki Culinary Academy in Tokyo! Chefs from all over the world are debuting their newest dishes… it's going to be unforgettable…"
"But—sigh—Mom actually cooked today, so now we're staying home. What a mood killer."
Komachi drooped in mock disappointment, her ahoge flopping down along with her spirits.
"It's in Tokyo?" Hachiman asked, downing a salmon onigiri followed by a hearty gulp of miso soup.
He'd definitely heard of Tōtsuki Culinary Academy—a world-renowned institute famed across the Empire.
"Heh heh…"
Komachi suddenly set down her utensils and flashed a mischievous grin.
"Since we're staying home… how about we invite Yui-oneechan and Yukino-oneechan over to hang out?"
"…"
Hachiman was tempted, just a little, but he held back.
His connection with Yui Yuigahama and Yukino Yukinoshita had always been oddly fateful.
It all started with one impulsive act—saving someone's dog. He was nearly hit by a luxury car in the process… which just so happened to belong to one of their families.
And that was right when the Salamanders launched their conquest of Earth.
One Astartes had noticed the boy's courage and compassion—and pulled him from death's door. From there, Hachiman rushed home like a madman and sought shelter with his parents and sister.
It was in that very shelter that he once again encountered the dachshund he had saved… along with its owner, Yuigahama's family—and the family of the girl who almost ran him over: Yukinoshita.
Because of Hachiman Hikigaya's "legendary encounter" with an Astartes who saved his life, even the typically aloof Mrs. Yukinoshita had personally spoken to him. Mrs. Yuigahama, having heard her daughter's story, also came forward to thank him. And so, the fated entanglement between them began.
As for the details that followed… sigh. Hachiman himself didn't quite know how to explain that chaotic time.
After returning to school post-war and experiencing a series of tumultuous events, he ultimately dropped out and enrolled in the recruitment trials for the Eleventh Auxiliary Legion of this tourism world.
Just as Hachiman was lost in thought, a distinct whistle reached his ears—one he recognized instantly. His eyes lit up with anticipation, and he suddenly shot to his feet.
"Wah! Onii-chan, what the heck?! You scared me!" Komachi yelped, frozen mid-bite.
But Hachiman was already on the move.
"Dad, Mom—get ready." Without waiting for a response, he rushed upstairs.
Outside, the sound of vehicles and footsteps filled the air as a motorcade passed by.
Ding-dong!
The doorbell rang. Mr. Hikigaya glanced at his wife, their eyes meeting with unspoken realization and excitement. He stepped quickly to the front entrance.
Standing at the door was a uniformed officer of the Imperial Auxiliary Forces, his formal attire immaculate, a gleaming Aquila Cross pinned to his collar.
Behind him were several soldiers holding briefcases, dressed in ceremonial wear. The street had been cordoned off. Security personnel in uniform surrounded the area. There were both military and municipal vehicles present, and passersby had stopped to watch the scene unfold.
"Mr. Hikigaya, Mrs. Hikigaya—pardon the intrusion."
The officer paused as if confirming the family's identities, then stepped forward and nodded politely.
Then, with a commanding voice, he declared:
"Private First Class Hachiman Hikigaya!"
"Private First Class, 19th Company, 16th Mixed Battalion, Public Order Division, Eleventh Auxiliary Legion! Present, sir!"
Fully dressed in his Auxiliary Legion uniform, Hachiman jogged up and stood tall at the entryway. His heels clicked together sharply as he delivered a crisp salute.
The officer returned the salute.
"Step forward."
"Yes, sir!"
As Hachiman stepped outside—
"Attention!"
Boots snapped together in unison. Conversations ceased. Everyone beyond the barricade stood at attention.
Auxiliary soldiers, local security officers, and public servants all faced forward with chests out.
"Private First Class Hachiman Hikigaya!"
The officer turned and unfurled a scroll bearing official seals.
"In recognition of repeated acts of valor in urban warfare, close-quarters combat, public order suppression, and city stabilization campaigns—credited with enemy kills, armored unit eliminations, and vital intelligence contributions on four separate operations—
"...by order of the Eleventh Legion Command, approved by the Salamanders' Eighteenth Legion, reviewed by the Imperial War Department, and sanctioned by the Imperial Ministry of the Interior, we hereby award:"
"The Silver Aquila Medal, Third Class."
"Promotion to Sergeant. Officer Cadet Status Confirmed."
"Award of Second Class Military Merit."
"Effective immediately!"
Click!
Snapping into another salute, Hachiman raised his chin high, spine straight, chest forward. With all the force he could muster, he roared:
"For the Empire! For the God-Emperor—Glory to the Empire!"
"The Empire recognizes your outstanding service, soldier!"
The officer nodded and pinned the shining Silver Aquila medal to Hachiman's chest, clapping his shoulder.
"Seize this opportunity. We expect great things from you."
Turning, the officer placed the award document atop a gilded case bearing the double-headed eagle crest and solemnly handed it over.
"Yes, sir!"
Even with all the mental preparation in the world, the moment it landed in his hands, Hachiman couldn't stop the trembling.
So many near-death experiences… and finally, a promotion that could change his fate.
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