Author's Note:

Why hello there, I see you're interesting to continue on the secondary chapter. I'm pleased and want to thank you for continuing to read. I do believe I will uploading new chapters every two weeks or so, if I'm not done by then I'm either busy with studies or plain lazy (I favor my audience so don't hesitate to give me a wake up call). This chapter will deepens Minato's background and his relationship with his friends. There's some interaction with Aigis, but to show how everything will fall into place. Like I said on the previous chapter, their relationship will slowly develop but there will be hints of their feelings for each other. I want to thanks again for reading my story and I will continue to write. Without further interruptions please enjoy the reading!

September: Early Friday Morning

*Beep* *Beep* *Beep*

"It's now 7:16am, the weather today will have clear skies and sunshine..."

I slowly open my eyes, awaken from the weather alarm. Ugh, another day of school...I pull myself up, slapping the alarm button off, and getting ready for school. Unexpectedly my stomach roars to life, begging for some food into the system. I should remind myself to buy dinner next time. I adjust my uniform, while I head out to the kitchen and came across Neku, my cat, rolling on the floor waiting for me to feed her.

"Good morning Neku." I whisper, while I rub Neku's head affectionately as it nuzzle me happily. "Are you hungry girl? I got your favorite food." As I open the can tuna, Neku came by next to me anxious to receive her food. "Here you go girl, make sure you take care of the house while I'm gone ok?" Neku, licks my hand and digs into her food. My hunger for food couldn't last much longer, I open the fridge and saw one lonesome melon bread. Well lucky guy you're my only breakfast today, smiling to myself. I grab the melon bread and head out to the door.

The sun's ray beams warmly at my face, what a beautiful weather outside. Struggling to open the wrapper, the corner of my eye spotted Yukari; who she appears to be waiting for someone. Yukari notices me, "Good morning Minato!" She rushes towards me and her eyes were on the bread.

"Good morning to you too, Yukari." I replied, still working opening the wrapper. We walked together to Iwatodai Station: just like any other day, she would usually wait outside of my house, but I guess she is getting lazy...

"You didn't replied my text yesterday..." the brunette gives me a pout look, as she snatch my impossible-to-open bread.

I reach into my pocket and flip my cellphone out. "From Yukari: How was it?" So she did texted me...oh boy... "Haha...I'm sorry. I didn't know you would text back to me." The small amount of sweat drips down to my side of my head. Yukari glances at me, waiting for me to reply her question, she opened the bread and handed it to me.

"I took her to the mall, and we basically explored around the island."I told her as I munch on my bread. She stares at me, deep down into my innocent soul. Gulp. "Sounds like you had fun."

Why do I feel like I'm being interrogated? "It's just like any other hang out" I reinsured her, and took an engulfing bite of the bread.

"Right..." she looks away. "Well Junpei and Fuuka wants to hang out on Sunday. Do you want to join?"

I nod, "That sounds great! I will ask Aigis to join us."

The brunette glares at me. What's that about? "Why her?" she replied, with a slight angered tone.

Ugh, me and my big mouth. "You know she's new to town and it would be nice for her to make some new friends." I took my last bite out of the melon bread and throw out the wrapper.

"Alright, fine. But I prefer it was just the four of us..." Yukari snaps at me. Is she having a bad morning?

We arrived at the station, it was fairly empty. Yukari stares at the clear skies, glazing through the clouds. "Say, Minato remember the time we first met in middle school?"

Why is she bringing this up? My memories started to burst, it was clear and I remembered how it all happened...

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Middle School:Playground Area

I never fit in, because everyone knew I had no parents...no one looking after me. "Hey isn't that kid who's parents died in a car crash? Jeez, sucks to be him." Everyone acted differently around me, so I intend to ignored them. I'm always alone; sitting by myself beside an oak tree and listening to music. Until one day, a kid with a baseball cap approaches me.

"Hey there! Want to play dodge ball with us?" the kid, grins his face widely at me. I stood there with hands in my pocket, ignoring him while my earphones was playing music.

The baseball cap kid angrily picked up a ball and throws it at me. "AT LEAST SAY SOMETHING!"

The ball hits my head, I turned my head facing him. The wind blew my hair covering my right eye. I couldn't control my anger, so I punched him in the face. The kid fell down, crying and I just stood there watching him.

A distant voice occurred, "HEY! WHAT ARE YOU DOING!?" A girl started running towards me. Before I could see who she was...a large impact hits my face. I tremble over to the floor and heard a loud crack noise underneath me. My eyes shaken, as I saw my mp3 shattered all over the floor. The anger inside of me is enraging controllably, "GET UP" the pink dress girl demanded me. Struggling to move my body, I felt the pain on my face starts to burn and stinks my lower jaws. The brunette girl strikes again, but I didn't move nor beg for mercy. I closed my eyes, wishing she could just finish me off.

"S-Stop! Yukari...!"

The girl immediately halts. She turns around wanting an explanation from the boy. The shaking boy tries to wipe his tears. "We...were just playing around...hehe... You know just boys fighting for fun." The pink dress girl gave me a second stare, and she burst out a laughter "I can't believe you were crying... You should be embarrass of yourself Junpei."

The baseball cap kid stands up and fix his cap. He holds up to his fighting position "Ngh, I'm not giving up, well come on! Show me what you got!"

Slowly pulling my body up, the rage inside me is still going strong. I gripped my hand tightly and ran towards to the boy with all my might...

I gasped for air and collapsed on the floor. The baseball kid smiled and he fell as well. I slowly turn my head, looking at him. He looks terrible, but it felt good releasing all my anger out.

"Hey..." the boy turns his head, smiling at me. "You're not bad at all...We should do this sometimes..."

I was surprised how he enjoys it... I didn't know if he was stupid or being friendly.

"Idiot..." I replied.

The girl in the pink came up to us. "Geez, that was entertaining! Junpei you got your butt's kicked!" giggling at her friend.

My body was too exhausted to move and I heard a whistle being blown... My eyes felt heavy, unable to keep them open. I was knocked out...

I regain conscience and I looked around. It looks like I was in the nurse's office. Trying to move my body, but they were too sore. "Try not to move your body so much, you got some bad injures." I turned my head where the voice was coming from. It was her...the same girl at the playground. She was waiting for me to say something, but I didn't.

She sighs "You're probably still mad at me, and I want to..." She lowered her head, bowing at me "apologize for what I've done."

My eyes are half open, but I couldn't understand why she is doing this to me. "..."

The brunette girl rise her head back up and puts on her sorrowful look. "That was stupid of me...I...broke your mp3 player and punched you for no reason..."

I didn't say anything, because it was true...that was stupid of her.

She continues "But! I will make it up to you! I will stay here, until you are fully recovered."

I nod at her...but my eyes felt heavy again and fell into a deep sleep. A dream...? No...it felt warm and peaceful. I was laying down someone's lap and the spring's wind gently blew my hair. The sun is shining brightly at us... I looked up, a blonde hair girl smiling at me and her face comes close to mine. Her pure essence was on my forehead, and the blonde girl whispers "Thank...you." Then she collapsed on the floor and my eyes starts to water. "Wake up...PLEASE WAKE UP!...N-No...NOOO!" as I scream to the tip of my lung.

Awaken from my nightmare, I woke up again in the nurse office. Pulling myself up, I saw the time, 5:16pm...It's getting late. My body felt lighter and didn't feel any sore. I stretched up my arms and noticed the brunette is still here... She was at my right side of the bed, resting her head down besides me.

I stared at her presence...So she did kept her word, and I shake her shoulders.

The brunette groans "Ugh...how long was I sleeping...?" she looks up and quickly surprised it was me. "Oh! You're awake! I- went back in class while you were sleeping, but skipped out the clean-up to see you. Haha...and somehow I feel asleep." She looked away from her embarrassment.

I continued to look at her...waiting to see what she wanted from me...

The girl looks out to the window "Junpei is alright and he wanted to see you too. So I guess he will be here soon-"

The door opens violently and it was him...the idiot baseball cap. He gladly looked at my direction and puts on his grin. "H-hey! Looks like you're healing well. I never met a guy who greets me with a full out punch." I noticed his gesture, he wanted me to play along with his story.

The brunette interrupts, whispering "Or made you cry."

"Ugh, Yukari! You had to blow up my cool?" murmured at the girl.

I looked at him carefully, he is almost covered with bandages and yet...he is not mad at me? Why? I was confused...

The baseball cap kid held out his hand. "My name is Junpei...You can say the greatest guy out there!" smiling at me. Unexpectedly, the brunette also held out her hand. "And I'm Yukari, and I'm friends with this knuckle head."

Glancing at their faces...with their hands opened up to me, welcoming me to be their friends. My mouth moved on its own "Yu...kari. Jun...pei..." I hold both their hands together and cried in front of them.

They both panicked "Wah! Wh-Why are you...crying?!" I wasn't crying for sorrow, but in joy that I was able to find friends, I smiled to myself.

The nurse, came by and she wanted us to leave, since she couldn't because of me.

"Oh...by the way, I'm sorry to ruin the mood here, but we're both getting a week worth of detention." said Junpei, as he shake his baseball cap. Heh, what a great way to start off our friendship...

Eventually, we walked out of the school together. "Don't scare us like that, we thought we hurt you or something." Yukari said flatly, crossing her arms.

Junpei adds on what Yukari stated "Yeah! Seriously! You almost made me have a heart attack!" he adjust his cap and sighs.

I smiled at them. So this is how it feels...being safe and their concerns...it felt heart warming.

"Lets go home..." I said to them.

The nodded in agreement. As we reached to a stop, where we go our separate ways... Junpei burst out "Oh yeah! We never caught your name." Both Yukari and Junpei anxiously waiting for me to reply.

"M-Minato...Arisato." I said, quietly.

"Well, Minato it was nice meeting you. I hope we can catch up in school tomorrow, okay? Don't be afraid of me, we are friends now." he gave me a pat on the shoulders and head off home.

He...is my friend now...

"Well I head off this way...so...I'll see you tomorrow." mumbling at me. She quickly walked the same direction as I was going. I followed her...

She notices me "Oh...haha...I didn't know we go to the same route. Ugh...That was embarrassing," she whispers to herself.

I stopped in front of my entrance, "Huh?! No way! You live just a block away from me!" the brunette shaken from her surprise. "Well...at least we can see each other more often." she paused, looking at me. "I'm glad to see you're feeling better. Like, I said I'll repay you for what I've done to you." She gave me her signature hand wave. "I'll see you tomorrow." She slowly disappeared within the distance.

I watched her, until she's not insight.

A week later...

I packed up my gatherings, ready to head off home. The pink girl appears in front of my desk "Hey, Minato are you free after school?" smiling at me. I glance at her and Junpei is behind her, appeared nervous for some reason.

I nod. The three of us walked to the shrine, both of them mumbling to each other. We stopped at the playground. Yukari looks at Junpei "You start first..." with her crooked smile.

Junpei took a deep breath, "Remember when your mp3...player...broke...and your earphone...and your face was badly bruised...and we ended up in the nurse's office..." he continues to mumble on.

The brunette interrupted him "WHAT, he is trying to say... We wanted you to accept this." She pulled out a small squared box with nice wrapping and a card on top. I accepted it, wondering what it could it be. My attention was on the card, and carefully opened it: "To our new found friendship, We hope you like it Minato!" There was small chibi-like pictures over the card.

"I drew those!" Junpei said proudly, crossing his arms. I unwrapped the wrappings and my eyes opened widely.

"GAH! I CAN'T LOOK!" shouted Junpei, as he covered his eyes with his hands.

"Shut up, Junpei jeez. Overdramatic much?" Yukari elbowed Junpei's arm.

I took out the present, it was a new mp3 player and it has my favorite color, blue and with it, a new earphones... My hands start to shake, my eyes start to water.

"I KNEW IT! THIS WAS A BAD IDEA! WE MADE HIM CRY NOW!" the baseball cap boy starts to panic.

The brunette ignores Junpei, "M-Minato...we are sorry, if you don't like it we can-"

I hugged both Junpei and Yukari. Trembling how I couldn't hold off my emotions. "Thank...you so much...I-I..like it. You're both amazing friends." sobbing at them and holding them tightly.

The two became anxious and hugged me back.

"We will always..."

"Be your friend."

"Forever..." I said, smiling to them.

We all held tightly, until the sun was setting... Since then, we became close and I cherish the gift they've given me...a new beginning of our friendship.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

I held my mp3 player, reminiscing the memories. "Of course I do...why would I forget something so important to me." Gripping my mp3 player a bit tighter and face Yukari "Why else I carry this around all the time?"

Yukari smiled back "We surely grow up pretty fast...and look how much you've changed, in a good way." She released a cocky laugh, "Ha! Look at you now, you're talking to me on your free will."

I'm still bothered why she's bringing up the past unexpectedly. "Yukari..." I said "Why are you asking me these questions?"

"I...uh...don't know actually." Yukari looks puzzled. I didn't say anything afterwards, but just to keep my thoughts to myself. Yukari...

The train arrived and we both got on as we head out to Gekkoukan High School.

Morning:

Upon our arrival at the lockers, Yukari turns to face me. "Hey Minato, go ahead without me, I have to check up on the facility office. Don't worry, I'll be back before class starts." She quickly left before I could say anything. Letting out a small sigh I exchange my gears, until I felt a pat on my shoulders. My body moved to see who it was; a silver hair guy, wearing a red vest, black gloves on, a small bandage on his left forehead, and giving me a crooked smile.

"Good morning." It's Akikiho-senpai... "Where you been lately? I haven't seen you in awhile." He lets go of his hand on my shoulders and formed a fist. "We need to spare like good old days."

Senpai...

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

I met him during my first year in high school. The school required all students to join a team or club, Yukari suggested that I should join boxing to become a "man," so she says. All new members were introduced by the coach and the team captain. Looking around there was a lot of people going into this team. We were told to stay put until the coach made an announcement.

"Normally I would take all of you into the team, but...there's too many of you so...We will just have a pre-examination in order for me to add into the team. Without further a due, Sanada-san can you please come up." said the coach as he looks toward to the silver hair male.

The silver hair male steps forward and scan his surroundings. He cleared his throat, "Right...if you're here to think boxing is some team you can join, then you're certainly wrong." Glaring at the audience and he drew his hand back. "If any of you guys can land a punch on me, you may consider to be a new member. So step up if you're up for the challenge" he added while grinning at us.

The crowd starts to panic a bit "Dude no way, he is the co-captain of the boxing team! I'll be toast! I heard he only joined the team for one year and they made him co-captain!"

The silver hair sighs "Fine, no one wants to volunteer? Then I guess I have to choose someone." He looks around the new recruits and his finger pointed directly at me "You. You will be my opponent, unless you're scared then I can understand."

I blinked, of course it had to be me. I step into the arena and I could hear the crowd whispering. "What?! This guy is actually going for it?!"

"I hope you're ready" the co-captain took his stance.

I nod and embrace myself for him to make his first move. He charged quickly toward me, his movement was so fast that I couldn't react to his first punch. The brute force landed on my left shoulders and causing me to fall down.

"Wow no way! He already knock him out with his first punch!" said one of the crowd.

The silver hair male turned his back on me "I'm sorry that I have to go that far..." he said with a disappointment tone and began to walk away from me.

"I am...not finished yet..." I tremble as I pulled my body up and glance at him, wanting him to fight me once more.

"WHAT?! Is HE trying to become a hero or something?!" yelled the crowd.

The co-captain smirked "Well at least you have guts to try for seconds." He turn his back to face me again and took his stance. "Get ready!" he yells at me. "Because I'm not holding back this time!"

Smiling to myself, I shift my body to catch him off guard. It seems I had my opportunity to delivered my punch. The silver hair completely dodged my punch, giving me a nice opening.

"Heh. Too slow! Now eat THIS!" He grips his fist and returns his own punch at me.

My hands, somehow, blocked his punch and the co-captain was in shocked; he was unable to react. Now! While I still had my chance, I punch him lightly on his shoulder's.

"Well, did I past the test?" Questioning him as I still have my fist on his shoulder's.

The silver hair looks satisfied of the outcome. "It's amazing enough that you were able to block my punch and yes." He took his hands on top on mine "You passed not only the test, but my expectations as well. I'm proud to have you in my team."

I looked away...I don't know how should I put this... "Um...I haven't really decided if I want to join yet." The embarrassment caused me to shake my head.

The whole room felt silence and everyone just collapsed on the floor. "A-Are you serious?!" yelled the co-captain. "...But I thought all members here made up their minds!"

"Haha...I'm not sure yet!" my body stiffen, worrying if he will scolded me.

He face palmed of what he's hearing. "Alright...then let know if you're interested, you'll make a great sparing partner if you train some more." He held out his hand "The name is Akikiho Sanada. I hope we get to fight as often."

I nod "Minato...Minato Arisato. I won't disappoint you." I shook his hand firmly, we both exchange complements and began to spare whenever Senpai has time. The best part of being with Akikiho-senpai is treating me to beef bowl. We would pig out on the beef bowl place and usually kick us out for eating so much.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

"I would love to senpai, but you never have time" I replied, as I put my hands in my pocket.

Akikiho raised his eyebrows "Wah, of course I do...it's just I-"

A group of girls started to scream "I found him! It's Akikiho-senpai!" Akikiho looks annoyed "...Ugh, because of them... I barely have time to train by myself! Seriously, how in the world they can track me down so easily?!" The girls gathered behind him, but he ignores them.

"Ummm...senpai I think we should spare soon, because you could use some relief." I told him, as I concern for his privacy and health.

"Yeah..." eying on the fangirls. "So I heard kendo resume practice today. You going?" Senpai tighten his gloves.

"Yes, but to be honest... I'm quite rusty since I don't have a wooden sword to practice with..." I trailed off. "Haha, I guess Junpei will be better than me."

Akikiho slaps his fist " You can go buy them, and practice at home. In matter of fact, I will lend you mine since, I have no use of it."

My face lifted "Really? I appreciate it, senpai."

He smiles "Hey, no problem. That's what friends are for..." His phone rings. "Ugh, the coach really bugs me nowadays. Sorry, Minato we can continue our conversation next time. I'll see you later." He accepts the phone call and his fangirls follows.

Poor senpai...

I walked up to the second floor, approaching to my homeroom. Slowly opening the door, there's no one in the class. I guess I'm still early for class... I fell back on my chair, and stare at the ceiling. I still have time...My eyes shut closed and before I know it I fell asleep.

"Minato-Kun...please wake up." A distant voice is calling me... My eyes open and a girl with blonde hair looks worried.

"Oh hey there Aigis." I rub my eyes and releases a yawn. "Did I miss anything?"

The blonde sighs in relief "Um...it's just... I want to wake you up before you get into trouble."

Silently laughing to myself. "Eh, I don't think the teacher will mind."

"Still I don't want you to get into trouble..." She retreat back to her desk.

I noticed she wore my gift "So, you did wear it on."

Aigis looks down on her bow "Y-Yes...It would be rude if you give me a gift and I never put it to use." Her cheeks went slight pink. "...And I made a promise remember?"

Yes...her promise. The red ribbon with the standard uniform looks well on her and I couldn't help but to complement."I'm glad you like it, you look nice with the uniform."

"Ah, hah...Thank you." She looks away searching something in her bag. "I made you something... I had a feeling that you'll be hungry so I made you some cookies." She hands me a warm chocolate chip cookie.

"Why thank you." I accepted her cookie and took a nibble. "Hmm...this is good. Did you make the cookie by yourself?"

Aigis smiled sincerely at me "Heh, thanks. Yes I made them this morning."

The door opens and I quickly shove the whole cookie into my mouth. It felt like I have those bunny cheeks with all that cookie stuff into my mouth. Aigis notices me and silently giggles, I couldn't help but to laugh as well. Mr. Edogawa enters the room as he cleared his voice. "Okay class settle down, lecture will be in session."

LUNCHTIME:

Finally, I never knew lecture will never end. I turn around to face Aigis...but she is surrounded with all my guy classmate.

"Aigi-san, you want to eat lunch with me?" "Who wants to eat lunch with him, if you're with me." "Hey! Since when you can call dips!"

Eh...She must be pretty popular with the guys here. I stood up and stretch out my arms, I guess my lunch with her will probably be rescheduled. Ugh, I need some fresh air... As I approach to the door, I heard Aigi's voice.

"Umm...I'm sorry, I made a promise to Minato-kun to eat lunch with him today." She walks toward me and she opens the door. I turn my head, and all the male classmate glaring angrily at me.

Junpei yelled out "What's the big idea Minato! I thought we were best friends!" He crossed his arms, frowning at me.

Aigis pulls my arm and guides me out to the exit "Lets go Minato-kun."

"Ye...Yes." I didn't know what's going on...

We both wandering in the hallway, the blonde girl looks around. "Where should we eat?"

An idea pop out of my head. "I know where, follow me." I lead her out to the stairs and we reach to the roof top; the fresh breath of air and the view of the city. Aigis is still on the staircase, hesitating to step foot on the roof top.

"Um...are we suppose to be here?" she said nervously, as she looks at me.

I held out my hand. "No worries, the administration don't care as long as we get to class on time."

Aigis took my hand. "Okay...It feels kind of weird coming up here." I pull her up and lead her to a bench for us to sit down. The blonde girl carefully inspects the area "This is amazing, I could sit here all day and watch this view." The wind gently blow her hair and she closed her eyes, enjoying every moment of the scenery. My eyes move towards to the view as well; we glazed out for few minutes until Aigis snaps out her tranquility.

"Oh! We should eat before the food gets cold." She brought out her colorful looking box and she opens them up. The presentation of the food is remarkable; bright colorful cherry tomatoes, small individually sliced apples which appears to be craved out to be rabbit ears, golden brown bite size fried chicken, and two pieces of sushi. The aroma made my stomach roar loudly and she giggles.

"This is yours." She hands me the one that I was drooling all over. I took a moment to look at her creation. "I never knew you have such excellent presentation skills in food."

Aigis opens her own box "Really? I think you're being a bit nice to me." She opens her wooden chopstick and munches on her fried chicken.

Helping myself to a sushi, my mouth slowly chew at different variation of flavor Aigis' puts into the sushi. "This is wonderful... maybe you should join cooking club. I know a friend who's in it, her name is Fuuka."

Aigis continues to munch on her food. "Oh? This school has cooking club? I would love to join, maybe I will check it out."

I nod and we continue eating in silence. "Minato-kun...?" The blonde whispers to me.

"Hmm?" I look at her with my chopstick still in my mouth.

"Are you free today? I still want to explore the area a bit more." She holds her chopstick on her fried chicken.

For a few second, I pondered on her request then replied, "I'm sorry Aigis...I have kendo practice today. Maybe some other time."

"I see..." frowning to herself. We ate silently afterwards.

"Say Aigis." I placed my chopstick on top of the box. "Are you free this Sunday?"

She gave me a surprised look, "Y-Yes, why?"

"I was wondering if you want to hang out with my friends and you know...make some new friends while you're here." My eyes slowly turning hazy. What's going on with me...

The girl muttered nervously "I...I would love to meet your friends..."

Ugh...I snap back, "Aigis...If you're scared it's ok, I'll be there. I promise if anything goes wrong, I'll be there to fix it."

"Right..." she nods.

I neatly place back the empty box and hand it to Aigis. "Thank you, it was satisfying. You're one talented chief." I said, smiling at her gently.

"Oh...not at all." She smiles back. Apparently, Aigis didn't finish her food, I decided to wait for her and pull out my earphone. The girl looks at me while I put my earphones on. "How come you always carry that mp3 player around?" she said, while she finish her food.

"My best friends, Yukari and Junpei, both bought this for me in middle school. Since they kind of broke my original one. They didn't need to buy this for me, but...this symbolizes our new friendship." I held up my mp3 player to Aigis and chuckled to myself.

The look on her eyes, felt jealously and she looks down at her empty box. "I see..." Carefully looking at her, I removed one of my earphones and placed one at her left ear. She looks at me, wondering what I was doing.

"I want you to listen to my favorite music." I pull out the music and press play. Aigis slowly moving her head towards me, "This is..." I nod and we both sat down quietly listening to the song, until it was over.

We both said the name of the song silently. "Burn my dread..."

AFTER SCHOOL

I gather my things and head off to the main hall.

"Minato-kun, please wait!" A blonde girl quickly followed behind me.

"Hey Aigis, is there something you need?"

She took a gasp of air, "About Sunday...where are we going?"

"That's a good question... We'll find out on Sunday so don't worry. I will let you know if something comes up." I reinsured her.

"I see..." she looks away.

I tightly grip my bag, "Are you going home?"

"Y-yes... I just want to say goodbye." the blonde blushes.

"Head home safe okay? Make sure to not miss your train." I replied with a hint of concern.

She nods her head "Alright. I'll see you tomorrow, Minato-kun." The girl departed and I watched her leave the building. Get home safe...

"Yo, Minato we are going to be late for practice." said Junpei as he walked pass by me.

"Right..."

PRACTICE :

Junpei and I both put on our hakama (a robe usually wear for kendo). "So you're coming to the hang out on Sunday?" asked Junpei, he brushes off his hakama as he watches me.

"Yes, and Aigis is coming along as well. It would be nice for her to get to know most of us." I tighten my robe and closed my locker.

He smiled happily, "That's my boy! I never knew you would ask her, but good job!" We talk idle conversation to the practice area. Junpei smiles widely and whistling as we arrived.

"It seems someone is cheerful today." A girl with red long hair smirks at us as she cross her arms. Junpei jumped "Oh hey it's Mitsuru-senpai. How was your summer?"

"Quite lovely actually, I was able to go over my studies and practice on my kendo skills." she replied calmly. "I see you being, naive as ever." Junpei shakes his head and laughing controllably. Mitsuru-senpai...she's the co-captain of the kendo team and a member of the student's council. Amazingly, she is only on her second year, just like Akikiho-senpai. Junpei and I first join kendo team back when I refused to join boxing team. Mitsuru-senpai hand picks both of us as her personal trainees. She trained us really hard for us to compete and gives us little to no breaks. When I told Akikiho-senpai that I've joined the kendo team, he mentions about her "execution." Hmm...probably something not important. But since then, we work together and she looks after us; academically and physically.

"Oh by the way, congratulations on your high remarks on your exam, Arisato." She closed her eyes and speaks highly of me.

"Thank you, Mitsuru-senpai." I replied, smiling to myself.

Mitsuru-senpai sharply looks at Junpei "As for you, Lori. I expected more from you."

He scowled, "But...senpai. You know me...I am just-"

"Silence! No excuse!" she angrily snaps at Junpei.

Gulp. Glad I'm not in his position. Mitsuru-senpai simply smiled at both of us. "Well then, let us being our practice shall we?" Junpei and I both were relief that her rain of terror is over...for now.

EVENING:

"Ow...my neck..." growls Junpei. "Why did she have to go so hard on us?"

My body feels sore and burns all over the place. "She can be rough on us, but maybe because she wants us to be back in shape." I replied wearily. We both walk the same route to our homes.

"Minato. Do you ever think we can ever find that one person?" He said, pondering to himself.

"What do you mean?" I question.

"That special someone that will fulfill your happiness..." The baseball cap boy looks up to the sky.

I yawned, "You will Junpei, you have to find that person."

"Wha! Wait! I didn't ask...ugh never mind," Junpei looks mildly annoyed. "So what about you?"

I look out, glazing at the empty streets. "Not yet" I replied.

He stops. "I hope we both find that special someone" He glances at me and held up his fist out to me.

"Yeah I hope so too." We gave each other fist pound and I smiled at him.

"I'll see you tomorrow, bro." He gave me his one last smile and simply walked home.

Silly Junpei, you never change. My eyes watch him as he disappear into the dark alley and adventure on to head home. As I walk into the dark streets, I happened to walk pass by Aigis' house. The top second floor is lit up, so it appears she got home safely...that's good. Slowly walking away from Aigis' house, Junpei's question still bothers me. Do I...? The question pounders me as I reach home.

THE NEXT DAY... LUNCHTIME

SATURDAY.

"Ugh Minato...Wake up!" I felt a light slap on my head, as I slowly regain my consciousness.

"Huh...? Wah?" The blur image starts to become clear; a girl in pink sweater holding a rolled up paper and giving me a frown look.

"Jeez Minato don't you sleep at home?" yelled the brunette.

"Sorry Yukari...my eyes just feels heavy." I said in a soothing voice, lowering my head down on my desk.

Yukari shook her head and sighs, "You know sometimes you worry me."

Finally I rub my eyes and yawn away, Why do I feel so tired? The brunette gesture at me, I caught her eying on me. "Is something wrong?"

She glance away staring at Aigis, "Nothing...I want to know why you're so fond of her." My head moves towards to a girl who's standing in front of the windows, probably looking at the cloudy sky.

"Well?" said Yukari, with a hint of annoyance.

"I don't know actually...But I feel like I've met her before...Somewhere..." mutter to myself, as I watch Aigis.

The brunette brushed my hair, "You're sure one mysterious guy Minato" She grieves at me. "Oh, for tomorrow make sure we meet at Iwotai Station at ten. We decided to go to the movies, so don't be late," Yukari informed me while poking my head.

"I won't..." frowning at her.

She smiled, "Good. Text me just incase okay? I'll be heading off to the library today, sorry if I didn't pack you lunch lately..." said the brunette, mutters in disbelief. "practice has been a bumper lately." She trailed off to the exit... She is been acting up lately... I quickly text her, "Don't push yourself. Make sure you eat something."

I stood up and approach to the window beside Aigis. "The weather reports that it might rain late afternoon."

The blonde startled, "Oh Minato-kun..." I continued looking at the window and we silently stood there until my phone vibrated. Reaching into my pocket, I glance at my phone's screen "YUKARI: Don't worry about me :)"

"Is something wrong?" the blonde asks.

Closing my phone and glance at Aigis. "No not at all, did you have lunch yet? Lets go to the school store." We both ordered a melon bread and juice, apparently we weren't in the mood for something heavy. Aigis and I both sat on the main hall bench.

"What days do you have practice?" She curiously asks me, as she holds her melon bread.

I bite my straw, "Fridays, Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays."

"That's a lot of days of practice..." She looks down in disappointment.

Trying to lighten the mood, my voice lowered, "Hey but sometimes practice can end early, and also during exam days we don't go to practice."

The blonde smiles weakly at me. "If you put it that way, it doesn't sound that bad." She paused..."So that means you can walk with me right?" Her eyes looks deeply at her bread.

"Sure." I replied, while taking a bite of my bread. Aigis nod and engulf the whole bread. My eyes widen of how she can finish the whole bread, maybe I shouldn't hold back my eating habits in front of her...

AFTER SCHOOL:

Walking towards to my locker I noticed a small envelope sticking out. Gently removing the envelope out of my locker, it had a nice fancy script written "To Arisato." It must be from Mitsuru-senpai, I shake a bit to get an idea what's inside. My left eye cornered a presence over my left shoulder, "what are you looking at Minato-kun?" the blonde said, while looking at the envelope.

I face towards her, "Here you can open it." Handing her the envelope. The blonde carefully opens the envelope.

"Ah it's a gift card..." She paused in her surprise.

"Is something wrong?" I said, as I watch her reaction.

Aigis holds out the card shockingly, "Huh...it's a 500,000 yen gift card..." She gulps and continues. "Is she rich or something...?"

I couldn't help but chuckled, and opened my locker. "She owns the school actually, she's the from the infamous Kirijo group."

Aigis deeply looks at me, "Is she your girlfriend?"

The blizzard statement coming from her, almost causes me to fall over. "What? No of course not. She's my senpai, as well as my mentor in kendo. Hah, Aigis you still girl...And besides..."

"Hmm...?" She continues looks at me deeply with her blue eyes.

I shake my head. "Never mind. You can keep the gift card, Aigis. Just make sure you don't tell Mitsuru-senpai."

Immediately the blonde held out the gift card to me. "Oh no no... It's not necessary, it's your gift... I won't be needing it anyway." She fidget her words while staring at me.

I reach out my hand and gently pushes the card that she's holding, back to her. "It's okay, just take it. Buy something you might like, I think you might have more use than I do." I said calmly.

The girl stood there, releasing a sigh..."Why are you so nice to me..." She looks down while holding the card.

The atmosphere seems darken, closing my eyes I closed my locker door. "Lets go outside."

Aigis walks ahead of me and we silently walk together. Finally Aigis deicides to say something "So you don't want to answer...?"

My hands deepen into my pocket and tighten my grip on my bag. "No it's not that Aigis. I don't know myself as well..." I sighed and blink into the "your...eyes." The blonde leans closer, intrigue of what I was about to say. "It felt like you're suffering. I don't know why but I can see it..." muttering my words to her.

Aigis looks away and stares out to the sun... She starts to giggle. "Hey, why are you laughing for?" I glance at her laughter.

"Nothing, you're one mysterious guy you know that?" She smiles at me.

I smiled back "So I've been told..." We both laugh silently and walked to the station. "What do you think?" I offered, wanting to know her opinion.

Aigis looks over the train tracks, hinting a faint blush. "To be honest, you're the first guy who ever been this nice to me..."

The clouds starts to darken a bit, and my brain did not comprehend what she just said. "But, our classmate seems to get along with you... Don't you think so?" I shrugged a bit.

The blonde didn't respond nor looked at me... The train arrived, the cart was empty maybe it's because its Saturday... Aigis took an empty seat near to the door, and I stood in front the door entrance next to her. We didn't exchange words, but I stared out the door window. Why are we acting like this? I glance over to see her, she's just sitting there perfectly still. Sighing to myself, good job Minato.

The announcer goes on "Attention passagers, the next stop is Iwatodai Station. Iwatodai Station is next."

"Aigis...our stop is here soon. And... you can forget what I've said." I continued glazes out the arrived station. The doors open and we both step out of the train. I notices she didn't flinch once we step out, she gave me a dry look. She struggles to say something, "I...I..."

"Why don't we sit?" She took a seat at a nearby bench, but she looks discomfort. I walk over to a vending machine, and slot out two ice tea. Approaching her with two ice tea, "here" as I hand her one.

"Thank you..." She gracefully accepts the can. I took a seat besides her and open my can. "Like I said, you don't need to tell me. You don't need to tell me if you're uncomfortable." I said, sipping on my drink

She looks down at her can "But...don't you think you're curious to know?" She glazes at me.

"Sure I do, but if something you don't want to share. It's fine." I smiled at her gently. Her deep blue eyes locks into mine, but I looked away. "Also..." I paused a bit. "If something is troubling you, you can always ask me. Hopefully, you can make some friend that will understand you." Without knowing, I was zoning out to the empty station across from us.

Aigis opens her can and letting out a smile "Thank you... I hope we can be good friends...until... Haha, look me babbling out some nonsense. Thank you Minato-kun."

I smiled "No problem Aigis." The blonde sips on her can "Someday..." She mutter to herself. "you will know the truth."

"I'll be waiting. Whenever you're ready."

The can felt light and I finished off the remainder of the drink. "Is it scary to be alone by yourself?" she asked, playing around her can.

"Yes, to be honest. The feeling of knowing your loved ones is not around every night is scary." I said hastily.

Aigis lay her can aside, continuing to question me. "Then your friends...came into your life." She finishes my train of thought.

I look over to her. "Yes, at first I didn't get along with anybody. The overwhelming feeling of afraid and alone consumed me. I didn't like meeting new people or interact with them." Slowly expressing my inner thoughts to her. "It felt completely gruesome. Heh, that Junpei threw a dodge ball to get some sense out of me." I laugh to myself.

Aigis couldn't help but to giggle as well. "What a nice way to start off your friendship." She admits.

My mouth grins. "Yeah without him or Yukari, I don't know what I'll become..."

Aigis quickly changed the topic. "What's your parents like? I bet they're really nice people." The sun settled down and the skies becomes grey.

"They were caring parents. I remember them being with me whenever I need them. Both of my parents were highly skilled lawyers, so I was able to go to school and live on my own. I just wish I could see their faces..." Sighing to myself.

The blonde looks at me and stood up. "Lets go home Minato-kun." she said quietly. I gather my book bag and we commence our walk; although it was rather short. Eventually we arrived at Aigis' residence.

Aigis glances at me sincerely. "Thank you...for sharing your stories and just being with me today..."

"Not a problem." I grin slightly. "I'll see you tomorrow then, 10am at the theater in Port Island Station."

"Umm..." Her eyes flicker down at the ground, while she gently kicks the dirt. "Can you pick me up tomorrow? I'm still nervous about meeting your friends. I will be more comfortable when you're by my side..." The girl shyly admitted her feelings.

My hands buried deep into my pockets, "I can understand that. Do you want me to pick you up in front of your house?" I said, with a cool tone.

Aigis looks up, enthusiastic what I've said. "Y-Yes! That would be nice actually."

"Okay, just make sure to get out 30 minutes early." I told her.

"Okay!" She continues. "I'll be waiting outside of my house then."

The skies was dark and my concern for Aigis grew a bit. "Alright hurry head inside now, I don't want you to get into trouble."

She quickly nods and opens her front entrance, before heading off she glance at me. My hand slowly waves at her, and Aigis puts on her jolly smile. She returns a small wave back and closes her door. The dark cloudy skies roar and small drops of rain falls down upon me. Disregarding the rain, I head towards home. The rain drops felt refreshing on my face, and I glances up at the clouds. Somehow I lost myself, somewhere in the abyss of the dark skies. Maybe... I told myself. There's something I want to know...Aigis... Are you truly going to tell me the truth? I stood there in the rain wondering if my question will ever be answered.

A/N: Thank you for reading, I do like some feedback (I'm not kidding) to see how I'm doing and I would like to hear your input! PM/leave a review is fine by me. Sometimes I do feel like I'm writing my stories & I don't know if I'm going in the right way. Like I said from the first chapter, I'm new here. (: Would like to hear from you guys! Chapter 3 is on its way; Friend...or Foe?

UPDATE 3/8/2013: I won't be able to to upload the next chapter this week, Sunday, due to exams. and other things I have to do. Be assure, the chapter will be release on next Sunday! I will have my spring break coming up, and I will dedicate my whole break writing the story. Sorry for the inconvenience, but rest assure that I will improve my writing, and make it the best story possible. Until then, I'll see you next time!