Being only a month or so from Ikki's victory in the Devil's 30-30, the news was still relatively fresh of how some kid who took so long to win could be the heir of the Sky King. There were many remarks on it. So many people had grand opinions that they freely shared with one another for a thought they believed should be heard. Even new Stormriders who before had never even touched an A-T were sneering of Ikki being a cheat and how he was their age, so it was unfair. Talent less hacks.

"Oh, Ikki-kun!" I yelled, waving to my friend that walked into view.

"Akito..." He replied less than enthusiastically.

"How're things? I hear you're being worked hard in Kogarasumaru!"

"You're there too, shouldn't know you know?"

I fidgeted, "Yeah, but Agito doesn't let me do anything. It's not fair, he always makes me look away or go to sleep or something of the sort. He's really protective, you get it?"

He sighed, "I guess I do, but still you should be able to take a look at least every now and then, right?"

"I-I should be able to, and it's Agito's fault, but I know he's only looking out for my best interest and I really can't hate him for that. I can't!"

Ikki put his hand on my shoulder and pushed me back slightly, "And that's why you'll never get a whole hell of a lot out of him, being as soft hearted as you are."

"….. I guess not, right."

"Absolutely not."

"Are you sure?"

"Positive."

"But he cares about me! Shouldn't I take that into consideration?!"

He ran a hand through his spiked hair and sighed, "I'm no counselor, so you can decide what you want to do for yourself, but I'm just saying that you should stop being so god damned obedient. That's easy for people to take advantage of.", "I see."

"Well," he continued, "you'll get through it; look at how you dealt with the Wind G-Men!"

"Ikki…"

He was being rather optimistic. I guess that's a good thing, but he's an idiot even with his almost helpful advice. He really has to ruin moments for everything.

They were alike in a way, Agito and Ikki. They both had odd forms of affection. And, well…

"Thank you, Ikki."