A/N: And you have a new update after all those weeks of waiting! So this is basically the birth of this chapter: Write, edited, let rot for a few days, re-edit, unsatisfied, delete the whole chapter, re-write, edited, let it rot, and re-edited. I'm officially going to plummet whoever's head if he/she dare utter the three words that "writing is easy." The nitwits most likely don't even know what they are talking about. -_-

Anyhow, don't let my little ol' self stop you for reading. Enjoy! Oh, and you have permission to slaughter me after this chapter.


Inazuma Eleven © Level-5

...

Through Space and Time © Loretta Fiorella


CHAPTER FOUR :

Why the Questions?


I poked my head out cautiously, darting my eyes back and forth, searching. There was nothing labeled as "Dangerous," thankfully, so I let myself tasted a bit of relief, and tiptoed out of my room—silently.

This part was the first step to initiate the operation. If I fail, all the hard work would gone down to drain, and the time spent brooding meticulously over the perfection of the plan would gone to waste. I couldn't allowed that to happen. Definitely not.

Hence, with utmost care and caution, I gripped the paper tightly in my hand, glancing at it once a while to make sure that I'm on the right path, and proceeded to walk (like a ninja!*cough*) down the eerie, soundless hallway (the resistentialism that the hallway exerted was creepy itself).

OPERATION X-645: COMMENCED.

-Figure out a damn way to get out of this place. P/s: Without being caught.

"Almost there..." I muttered to myself, reaching the end of the hall. Judging by the paper, I was supposed to turn right, then a left. So I did, with a little sense of pride swelling at the pit of my stomach that perhaps, perhaps, the operation can run smoothly—just as planned.

Just to caught a pair of light blue eyes staring.

Whatever sense of accomplishment in my stomach dissipated completely.

I twitched.

OPERATION X-645: FAILED.

Oh Fate, sue me, will ya?

Geez, whatever. I ought to get used to this soon. Because I have a feeling that this will most likely occur more often in the future. Call it gut feeling, which I found myself hating.

It was the girl from before, in the showdown with another girl for a bet, or something. With her white locks cascading to her shoulders, and black hair that rested contentedly on her back. Adding with her sky-colored eyes and her chibified look, she would have looked absolutely adorable. Except that those eyes held much more wisdom than a child could possibly possessed. Proof that she, too, had been reincarnated. But there was something else, as well. It wasn't just the skeptical (probably directed at my sanity), confusion, bewilderment, and amusement looks. There was a hardened edge to it, as if she had gone through a lot. A little part of me was curious, but it wasn't my business.

"Hi." I greeted awkwardly, plastering a plastic smile on my face. While my pose—one hand on the wall, another clutching the paper, a foot in mid air, another tiptoed on the ground, plus a look screaming "Please help this poor peasant girl!" on my face—still frozen in place. Of course she would questioned if my sanity still intact, which I have no idea how to answer myself.

Instead of greeting me back, though, she fired her question. "What are you doing?"

Her tone was mostly curious, but there was a trace of amusement in it nonetheless. Yet her face remained the same—emotionless. Apart from the things that I don't know about her (Heck! We just met yesterday), I at least knew that she was excellent at keeping her emotions at bay.

Soooooo...how to answer her question...

OPERATION X-645 VERSION 2: COMMENCED.

-Conjure up a believable (not lame) excuse.

I smiled, though it turned out more of a grimace, and racked my head for an explanation. "Weeell..." I drawled lazily, buying time. "I'm...uh...practicing my...er...ninja skills? Yeah! That's it!" I laughed, with more force to it than necessary, and glanced at her apprehensively. She looked, well, normal with her expression unchanged, but she clearly was curious for the details of my explanation.

OPERATION X-645 VERSION 2: FAILED.

Smooth. Real smooth, Ran. You've just doomed your own fate. Now the purpose of hiding that you're as clueless as an ant underneath a pouring sky in terms of navigating had completely left doomed to meet its end. Not to mention that the operation had ended so swiftly in mere 4 seconds. Bravo.

My smile now just a tilt of the lip. I could almost sense a cloud of depression looming above my tiny form, it gradually got darker with a few thunder here an there.

But I made no move to dig deep into the matter. For as long as I don't utter anything unnecessary, no one would try to turn the table against me. And not saying anything is always better than useless lies in these kinds of scenarios. Plus, knowing myself, my mouth would just get me into trouble. So I stubbornly kept my silence.

She acknowledged my answer with a dip of her head. "Well...good luck with your...ninja acting skills, then," she said. Might I add something? I never mentioned anything about acting.

An awkward silence.

I've long given up on my pose and now shuffling my feet silently. Eyes darting behind my shoulder longingly, and my legs itched to just bolt away from this suffocating air. Come on, I pleaded, say something! Anything!

Silence still.

With a defeated and resigned look, I parted my mouth to utter a quick goodbye, and my legs readied to bolt. But the girl beat me to it. Unexpectedly.

Well, that was a help.

"Have I met you somewhere before?" She inquired.

I quirked an eyebrow, what kind of question was that?

"The last time I check, you and me met at the field, when you played against another girl. Yesterday. And then we were dragged to the office to received a lecture by a stern-looking Health Advisor. Though we endured the tortures separately," I narrated the series of events incredulously.

True, when the flaming ball was about to hit its unintended target, another ball came and collided with the thing, effectively making the hissatsu to loses its power. And turned out, the person who shoot it was a pissed off Health Advisor in her petite skirt and purple shirt, in addition with a black vest over it. She swiftly took full advantage of her position and calmly ordered the kids like a teacher scolding the naughty students to scamper off the field. While at the same time commanded the two girls who mattered and myself, who charged guilty because she somehow unknowingly distracted the player, to come to her office, pronto. Each of us have a session of torture to our own, and mainly based on "According to the Rules, you are not allowed to hold an unauthorized competition by your own wills" or "Fightings are encouraged to be off the campus; meaning that here at this camp, you cannot fight in any ways." That's the idea.

But to me, she had said with an underlying tone filled of threats. "As concerned as you might be, a distraction to a player's concentration can easily ends in a disastrous outcome. If I hadn't interfered, Meredith could have suffered some damages and required a hospital visit. Please keep that in mind." Since I was a newbie, she let me off the hook. But that wasn't the end of it, I mused, the conversation had taken a different direction during the span of 10 minutes. The conversation was not one I'd like to have during that time, and the day was too much of a wild ride.

The girl—Yusa, was it?—shook her head negatively. Her eyes a piercing blue, "That wasn't it. I wanted to know if we had met before, in the past life."

I stared openly at her, debating my choices. Why the hell would she wanted to know that? Sure, she can be curious. But what triggered her question? I don't remember a thing about meeting her before woken up here. And then, I remembered a particular part from the conversation with the Health Advisor. A warning, or an advice. I don't know which. But at the end of our long talk, she had warned about this topic we are talking about.

"...refrain from letting people know that you possessed your knowledge of the past. Ignorance will serve you well in the future. You trust no one with your secret, there will be less burdens to carry."

Bewildered, I exclaimed, "But someone already knew that I have a past!" The boy who guided me, Sanada.

She scrutinized me with a solemn gaze, I fidgeted nervously in my seat. With a soft voice, almost a whisper, she said thoughtfully, "Then don't add oil to fire. Don't worsen the damage. If you truly understand the pain, then it will be to your own benefits to listen to my advice."

I didn't have a slightest idea of what she was thinking, nor why am I obeying her words. Actually, scratch that. I do have an idea for the 'why.' Since she has lived here far longer than I have, therefore have more experience in these kinds of things, so why not? And besides, her expression, her presence, was too serious; too sophisticated to comprehended. I would have stay low and follow her orders even if we were in a different circumstance. Now though, I should deal with the problem at hand first.

Silence would not be considered as lying, right? Hiding, yes, but not as bad as lying.

"That's...why would you want to know anyway?" I shot another question back, quickly changing the subject, hoping she won't notice.

She did though, when she furrowed her eyebrows. She remained contemplative for a moment, deciding how to respond to my tactic of diverting her attention. I made an effort to keep my face straight, just like hers, and hastily hid my emotions as best as I could—which I'm sure wasn't much.

"You...reminds me of someone," she said slowly, carefully, as if she wasn't certain herself. "Before, when I was about to kick the ball, I heard your voice, and there was something tugging at my head at that time. I was closed to remembered something, but by the time I realized what I was doing, the ball went straight at Meredith instead of the goal behind her—which was my intended target. Why?" She asked.

I blinked, more confused than ever. "Don't you know?" I asked instead.

She shook her head. After seconds of considering, she stopped pursue the matter. "What's your name?"

"Er...Fukuzawa Ran...?" I was suddenly on the defensive side.

"Ran...Ran..." She muttered to herself, she looked like she was struggling to solve...whatever problem she has. I'm tempted to just run away from this strange situation; how did I landed here again? And what's with my name being repeated? Too many questions for a peaceful morning.

"...Ran...Sanada..." A deep frowned marred her face—the first expression that I've seen her wear ever since we have our conversation. But Sanada? As in, Sanada the Tour Guide from before? Since when was he got dragged into this?

"Uh..I'm sorry, but I really need to go now. So..." I said, taking a step back. "See ya!" And run for it. Though it was an awkward run with the stumblings. I didn't look back to see if she heard me or not. I just ran, and it was oddly refreshing after being forced to learn the ways of this Training Camp.

I frowned.

Though they had given us much freedom, it still felt like a cage. The bars were made up of strict rules and the surrounding greenery. But in a different perspective, the bars are here as a shield—a barrier which separated us from the harsh world. And besides, we were allowed to do whatever we wanted, as long as it had nothing with breaking the Rules—the restrictions weren't even that harsh. In addition, judging by the map, they have almost everything a teenager ever needed. From the basic necessities to the unnecessary entertainments. It was like a Utopia. A modern one.

Yet...

I pursed my lips.

Then why?

Why the supposed happiness does not come?

XXX

"What do you mean?" My voice sharp, and I glared hard at the woman before me.

Inhale. Exhale. Breathe. Breathe. Ran, you better keep yourself in check. Don't lash out. Do not lash out.

She seemed aggravated, but kept her composure. "Like I stated before, you'll have to deal with the regulations. Keeping this place orderly is one of our important rules. If perhaps your peers figured out your past—or even that you know of your past—the things we have worked so hard to build up until now will crumble apart. It will be a pandemonium."

"Things?" I asked. "What things?"

"Things you do not need to know of."

I would have stand and stomp my foot childishly just out of sheer frustration, but the fact that my feet can only feel air prevented it. "It doesn't matter! Sanada already knew, why bother?"

"He is a good kid. At least he knows what he's doing. I'll talk to him at later dates if the situation requires it. But not everyone is the same, and one person simply can't stop a scandal from breaking out other than confront it at its root," she replied, too calmly.

"So? How does that affect whatever you're working on? For God's sake! How does that have anything to do with me either choosing to keep my mouth shut for the rest of my life or to have my memories erase?! How could that affect anything?"

"The ripple effects."

I stopped for a moment. The ripple effects...? What does that have anything to do with this?

"Every actions have their own consequences," she explained. "Just like how a mere, lifeless leaf can disrupt the tranquility of a lake. But it won't be just a single ripple that will fade, but numerous of them. All unpredictable. They will spread so far because of a single event.

"The fact that many here have no memories, how would they feel? When they don't know who they are, yet was given a new identity. When they don't know where they're from, but now allowed to live in a contented place. They don't know their own wishes, nor their own goals. How would they act when someone else have everything they don't have standing in front of them? How would that single emotion be responsible for the events afterwards? Mistakes will only breed troubles." I gritted my teeth at her words, futilely stopping the water from pooling at the corners of my eyes.

"Say, if you were to let them know of your past—may it be the setting, time, or the society—it can affect their own memories, because no matter how much you wished against it, we are all connected, and the ripples will form. They can feel the immense pain at the tuggings of flashbacks, which they are not even sure if it's theirs, or simply went into a coma with the possibility that they'll never wake up because of the emotional strain. You cannot control what is out of your hands, so there's no choice but to avoid it altogether," she said impassively.

"I...I..." I stammered, struggling with my words.

"Humans are selfish creatures, even when after they are reborn. They stop at nothing to get what they wanted. And—" She closed her eyes, leaning back against her chair. "—we too are just humans. So I understood your reluctance."

Then opened her eyes once again, which now directed to the gray ceiling. "But our choices always left us with something to regret. And it was always our choices that left us with unwanted consequences. Tell me, do you want such things?" Her eyes harbored the seriousness, the sympathy, and sadness as it met with mine. I replied with silence.

She gave a sigh. "I understand that it is not such an easy thing to let go of something you treasure. But now that you can start anew, would it really be a smart choice to hold onto your past?"

I knew she was right. I no longer held any responsibilities as I once have in my past life. But still, making such decision required time. I don't want to forget my family. Not that easy in a short span of time. But who was she to dare suggested that it was best for myself to forget?

"You...have no idea." My hands shook with fury, and I glared up at her. "You summoned me here gods-know-how, and start spilling and deciding my life in just a single day. Hell, I never say anything about wanting to live. But your goddamn stubborn head just doesn't understand how it would feel! Goddammit! How it would feel my second life—which you kindly told me that I better be enjoying it—was already planned by you people! My family had been taken away from me; my life had been taken away right at the time when my opportunities were lying there right under my nose. All of that disappear when I friggin' died! Now all I have left are just my memories, you expected me to give it up willingly?" I shouted, but it still did not ease the heavy weight of loss.

"I need some time," I said shakily, wiping the tears. I didn't even noticed the salt water which streamed down my face in rivulets, just as I didn't noticed that I was clutching both the armrest and the papers in my hand in a strained grip.

She nodded, "You'll be grant the time you need for yourself. Though I suggest the option to erase your memories. It should, and it will, lessen your burdens. Unnecessary stress in turn caused strain to your emotional health. For now, though, let's have some drinks." She got up from the table and made her way to grab the mugs from the counter. She took out two little packs, and tear the opening to pour the contents in both of the mugs. There was the sound of water and spoon making a contact with the mug's inner wall.

I let the comforting klink klink to lead me into my thoughts, calming my breathing.

She is the adult, I told myself, she knows things better than I do. Holding a grudge isn't going to help. She was simply doing her job. It wasn't that she wanted me to feel pain, but it was for my own benefits. So stop being angry at nothing.

Lies, all lies. A voice in the back of my mind whispered.

I was angry at her. I was angry at this world for coercing me into something I'm unwilling to. I was, and still is, angry at myself for that one little slip. A slip that turned my life upside down and landed me into another world where I clearly don't belong. If I hadn't slip, I would be sitting and eating in a comfortable silence with Mama. I would be whining about school and see the exasperated faces on the twin. I would be dragging Tarou to an arcade and have him pay for me. I would be over there, lying on my own bed in my own room and have a decent sleep. I would—I wouldn't be here trying to direct my anger to someone else and to bunch of papers. I certainly wouldn't be lashing out and regretting for that little slip.

Immediately realizing where my thoughts had taken me, I hurriedly brushed it off.

Breathe. Breathe.

To the matter at hand.

I was provided with two choices: one being to have my memories erase, and according to the Health Advisor, it would be best for me. And two, I have the option of bearing this burden for the rest of my life alone. Which, in retrospect, didn't sounded appealing. But at least it let me kept my treasure.

But in another facet, to not talk about them which means to forget them. Time will keep flowing, and with nothing to reminds me of my memories, it will all eventually be erase. Even if the memories were not erased by force, then it will be erased by time. Which leads to the same result as the first option.

So, in overall, the two choices ended up with me being miserable.

I buried my head in my hands, discarding the papers on the polished, glass table.

The mug was suddenly in front of my face. I looked up to her brown eyes, surprised that they were a comforting color, and it was full of concern. "Drink," she said.

I took the warm mug in my small hands, careful of the weight, and eyed the steam. "Hot chocolate?" I croaked.

She nodded as an affirmative, then I took a sip. Hot chocolate in a hot day. Strange. But the intense air conditioner made up for it. It wasn't that delicious, but it was enough to ease my thirsty throat. I took a longer sip, and wipe the excess with the back of my hand.

I sighed, eyeing the papers that lay strewn on the table in front of me. They were given to me by the Instructor, but I had almost forgotten its presence, since I was busy comprehending the...facts, and the wrinkle pages were of my doings. Besides all these problems, I'd very much like to divulge myself into something else to take my mind off Camp and whatnot. Of course, as hungry as I was, the first thing that popped into my head was to eat. Foods right now would be good.

There was no harm in asking.

But before I could barely form a coherent question, darkness swept over me, and my body was rendered useless. I was tired, very tired, more than from before. My eyelids weight pounds, and I could feel them drooping. Panicked, I searched for the Advisor. To see her stared calmly back.

"Rest," was the only thing she said.

I slumped back in my seat, which now feels more comfortable than the bed back in my room, and my fingers loose around the handle of the mug. My eyes was already closed by the time the mug created a loud thud on the carpet, and the splash soon followed after.

Won't the hot chocolate leave stain on it?

I felt something pricked on my arm—like an ant bite—as my consciousness slowly slip away into darkness, and an echo rang loudly in my ears...

Injection.

XXX

It was a miracle that I didn't get lost, let alone finding the Lounge. Knowing my navigating skills equals zero, it was something worth to gaped about. No kidding. Give me a map when hiking, just don't be mad that you ended up on a beach.

Well, I exaggerated a bit, but that's the point.

So, it's a good thing for the day to brood about.

Not caring whoever is in the room (woah, this place is more of a mansion than a villa now), I dashed toward where the plates are as I set my eyes on them, and began filling it with those heavenly-smelled breads. I grinned when my hungry stomach grumbled in agreement. Soon I ended up with two full plates and immediately wolfed it down. Not ladylike, but why would that stop a hungry girl from eating?

Now that I think about it, Sanada did said that he'd wait for me in the Lounge. I scanned my surrounding, nope, not a sign of that brown hair boy. He probably fed up with waiting and went somewhere. Speaking of which, how long had I been asleep?

...

Er, who cares when you have foods in front of you?

...But poor him. The sleep was worth it, though. I was emotionally, mentally, and physically (not quite) exhausted from yesterday's events.

I'm in no mood for brooding right now. So I locked anything that alluded to the events and the memories from yesterday in a safe, closed door.

I gulped the juice and sighed contently. Finally having a break from all that headaches. Even if I prided myself to be a good listener, too much was still too much.

Anyway...

The foods seemed to be appropriate for breakfast. So it must be morning. Tick tick. Ever since that woman drugged me in her office and until the time I woke up in my room—tick tick—(or at least I assumed it is), I must have slept like a log for at least half a day.

...Whoopsie. No wonder I was starving. Tick tick. But I must be more exhausted from the emotional stress to be able to overslept. Tick tick. Usually I'm an early riser, or at least back in the days, I wonder if that habit is still there? Tick tick. My mood then turned sour. Dammit, shouldn't have think about the past. It's making me homesick. Tick tick—for Pete's sake! What in the bloody hell is with that ticking?! Hello! Someone is trying to think here! Or more like reminiscing...but still thinking!

I turned to the direction of the sound, scowling. "Why..."

To see a girl. Daydreaming, from the look of it. Her orange hair was very attention-grabbing, so it was hard to miss.

"Can you please stop?" I asked politely. But it wasn't enough to hide the fact that I was irritated.

That snapped her out of her thoughts. "Oh, I'm sorry for disturbing you," she said automatically, and blinked, as if she didn't even have control over her own speech. To be honest, I think she might've looked a little lost there. What was she thinking about?

I gave her a nod of acknowledgement and went back staring at the empty glass.

Quiet.

….

Silence.

….

Boredom.

….

Gah! I can't take this anymore!

Turning so I could face her directly to where she's sitting, and she's the only human beside myself in the room, so that made her my victim. I struck up a conversation.

"So..what's your name?" I winced at my tone, which was rather rude. You go Ran, what a nice way to ask a person for their name. I cleared my throat and tried again hastily, "I mean, my name is Ran. Sooo...what's yours?" …As if that's any better. I should get some etiquette classes now that I'm here.

She smiled at my effort. "It's alright," she said, reading my mind. Often times I wondered if my face was like an open book...? "My name is Sakuraba Noriko. It's a pleasure to meet you."

I nodded, "Right, nice...to meet you too."

And the silence once again took its place.

Depress sigh.

"So, Saku...Sakuraba-san, where are the others? Shouldn't they be here?" My second attempt at a casual conversation. Don't blame me that I'm not used to it. Usually Tarou, Youko, Youta, and Shio were the only friends I have, so being comfortable around them didn't took much persuasive efforts. Shio was the talkative one, so we left her do the talkings every time. I never bother making friends out of my circle anyway. There was no need to do so.

"Noriko is fine," she smiled reassuringly. "Most of the others already went to the Center for morning sessions, it is rather late, after all."

Surprised, I asked, "Aren't you supposed to be heading there too? Are you really planning to be late?"

She shook her head, "I'm waiting for a friend." Then she frowned, "But she's late."

The timing was perfect, as a loud scream followed her words. Then there was a resounding thud as something heavy made contact with the floor. I arched an eyebrow at Noriko questionably, not sure whether to feel alarm or amuse at the "Oww..oww" from the hallway.

"You know Akemi-san, you never strike me as clumsy," Noriko called out.

"I'm not," a voice grumbled back, "I'm sleepy, are you going to blame me for that?"

"No, of course not. But we're going to have some lectures later because you overslept. At this rate, we'll be 7 minutes late if we are not leaving right now."

"Alright, alright, I'm coming!" The girl stumbled into the room, holding her head. I recognized her as the one whom I conversed with yesterday at the field. And also the one who reminded me so much of Shio. But Shio is now in the past.

"Ouch," I said sympathetically, half wincing at the red spot on her forehead and the other half was for the darn truth.

The girl nodded absentmindedly, she too winced, "Yeah, ouch." Then abruptly turned to my direction. I flinched involuntarily. "You're from yesterday!" She pointed at me, beaming.

I held my hands up, having an urge to defend myself. "Err..yeah. I get that quite a lot. Fukuzawa Ran, at your service."

She grinned, and dashed towards me to give me a fearsome handshake. "Nice to meet you! My name's Akemi Hoshi! Let's be good friend from now on!" she said excitedly.

I spared a confused glance to the orange head's direction, but her expression was becoming more darker by seconds. "Er, nice to meet you too. But I think we should get going now. I don't want to be late on my first day for...whatever it is we are doing," I said quickly.

Akemi's grin faltered for a moment, "Oh...yes. We have Ishiko-san as our Trainer." She grimaced, "We better get going soon, you especially don't want to face two volcano eruptions right this morning." She casted a nervous glance to the other occupant in the room. Smiling slightly, she asked, "How much time?"

Noriko, though, remained perfectly stoic after taking a quick look—now I noticed—at her pocket watch hanging on her neck. "4 minutes," she answered, and stood up. "We'll have to run."

Akemi nodded, grabbing my hand, she dragged me out to the open air.

Now I learned that the Lounge is basically just the same thing as a living room, but much, and I mean much, more grander. Show-off bastards. I almost let the comment slip, but bit my lip to refrain from doing so. Though I wondered why we have to run when the building was just right next to ours. It shouldn't take long just to get there on time.

I gently pull my hand out of the girl's grip, so she can have more freedom to run rather than dragging me. With Noriko right behind, we entered the massive building, the Training Center, presumably.

…..

Oh.

My eyes slightly widen.

Oh.

Of course, the inside too have to be huge. The area was spacious, rectangular shape alright, and the blue carpet have a rough texture to it, meant to lessen the injuries if one happens to slip. Numerous mats lie there ready for use, with various colors, creating an interesting impression of a colorful, blue canvas. Other equipments for sports, such as the vaults or the ramps, took up most of the spaces. There was a path of sparkling (...the hell?), wooden floor in the middle, dividing the blue carpet into two and lead all the way across the building to another empty region, which was left bare of equipments for space. Basically, it was the epitome of a Gymnastic Training Center.

Does all this even necessary for just. One. Damn. Sport?

Hold on, was that a group of kids with an adult on the other side of the damn huge establishment?

Well...

Oh crap. No wonder we are running.

Since we were right in the open, some heads turned toward the front door to take in the scene of the three girls who are—quite literally—madly running to their direction. I seriously am not blaming them for staring. I would, too. Still, I would appreciate it much more if they could kindly turn their attention to the only adult in their midst, who now took notice of the three running forms.

Double crap.

I could feel my face burning.

"Right on time," Noriko murmured, checking her watch as we halted next to the group.

I almost slump with relief. T-too close. Akemi simply flopped down for a little rest. "S-sorry," she said.

Ishiko-san scrutinized us more closely, and I let out a nervous smile at her persistent gaze. She said nothing, but her eyes sure spell "Do not let it happen again." I nodded hastily.

She turned back to the group in front of her, demanding their attention. "We have someone new who will join us starting from today. Introduce yourself." She gestured to me.

I stood straight up and bravely fought the urge to look away from the curious eyes. "M-My..." —stop the damn stuttering!— "My name is Fukuzawa Ran. Nice to make your acquaintance," I bit out. Who knew that facing a group of kids can be intimidating just as facing a crowd of adults? What's more, I'm living with them from now on. So, good impression...good impression...

Someone snickered in the background, clearly caught my little slip-up.

I mercilessly squashed down the need to strangle the unfortunate kid right on the spot.

The Trainer maintained her impassive expression, "Very well, then. Those who are willing to be her partner, please raise your hand."

…Partner?

I'm afraid that I was notinformed of this partner-system thing.

I raised my eyebrow at the group. Nope, no hands. Wow, they sure have much confidence in me. Haha. Ready for a year of being a loner, Ran. Correction: years.

Ishiko-san continued nonetheless, "Those who don't have a partner, raise your hand."

A hand rose up. I thanked the gods inwardly that it was a girl who did. Maybe I wouldn't have to deal with this place for gods-know-how-long alone after all...

"Good then, Meredith, you'll be her partner. Now line up, and make it quick!"

The kids began to scampered around while I stared confusedly after them. "Go with Meredith-san," Noriko whispered before she went after Akemi, who gave a brief wave at me as she went to stand behind a boy; Noriko stood next to her. I moved to where my partner is—she simply casted me a glance and pointed with her chin to the empty spot. I quickly create a distance of one meter to her left, imitating others.

"Warm ups!" came the order.

The kids began to perform certain exercises according to their hidden agenda. Some did it swiftly with amazing grace, others managed to keep up but their poses rigid. I awkwardly mimicked their forms and (no doubt) looked like a duck in the middle of swans lake as others began to switch their positions without warning. Their timing was perfect, except for mine.

The Trainer's eyes were not on me, but I have a feeling that she's asserting my abilities somehow. Though, I really am confident that I had just plunged myself to the bottom of her list in "potential to become successful." If she even have such a list, that's it.

Call it low self-esteem. But in actuality, I'm not faring really well here...no kidding. I clenched my jaws and hung my head low to hide the embarrassing blush, but snapped my head up when we shifted our positions.

Thirty agonizing minutes passed, the "Warm Up" session finally ended. I breathed a sigh of relief and crouched down. And guess what? This was just a simple "warm-up", yet the clothes are clinging onto my skin because of the sweat, and my breathing pattern was getting labored. I let out another exasperated sigh; the dislike for this place was escalating quick and fast. Thankfully, no one spared a glance at me except for Noriko and Akemi, and theirs was full of concern. So it wasn't that bad, yet.

There was always the 'yet' to dread about.

The Trainer called out, "Work with your partner for the fifteen minutes in stretching. Done and then we'll start to practice acrobatics for this week."

Acrobatics...? Like flying in the air and doing poses? That kind of acrobatics? This is not soccer anymore. Like, seriously.

I turned to my partner who was now on the floor, arms locked and stretching her shoulders. "Can I ask a question?"

I took her silence as a yes.

"Why do we need to learn acrobatics? It's not like we are applying to work in a circus as professional acrobats." Though the image of ten and below years-old kids doing such dangerous activity was quite amusing. The parents will have heart attacks if they ever witness that scenario. I can laugh at their priceless face and snap a picture or two. But that's not the point here.

"You'll see," was her short response. "Start stretching, the woman is looking this way."

I immediately flopped down and stretched my legs. My eyes looked for the stern woman, who was busy watching another pair, correcting their positions. I scrunched my eyebrows. "She isn't," I said.

"She isn't," she agreed.

I blinked. I did not just get duped by my own partner.

Nope, I did. Truth is harsh as always.

I huffed, mirroring my position just like hers from before and stretched my arms, feeling some of the joints cracked. Alright alright, she doesn't want to talk. I'm not going to be the bad kid here and bother my partner. Gotcha. I'm unwanted here.

"Stop sulking."

My reaction was instantaneous. "I'm not sulking!"

Unfortunately, that was a bit too loud. I flushed at the looks the others are giving me at my outburst. I scratched my head, laughing awkwardly. "Err... I'm sorry..." I said lamely to the audience. I turned back to my partner. "What was that?" I hissed, keeping in mind to have my volume down.

The girl beside me gave a snort. "As funny as you are, your face is getting us into trouble. The officer is coming this way," she said dismissively, completely brushing off my question. And since when did my face got dragged into this mess?

I turned around and true to her words, the Trainer was staring at me. I momentarily forget about the one who caused me in trouble from the get-go.

"I believe," she started, her face impassive, "I never said anything about you chit-chatting in my class nor I ever inquired for a disruptive student. So I ask you: does your actions justified an impending punishment on your first day?" Her eyes narrowed ever so slightly.

"Er..uh..uhmm...I-I.." How was I supposed to answer that?

"No, she doesn't have to do whatever punishments you're thinking." Surprisingly, a voice spoke up. I noted that it was coming from behind me. "This is her first day in your class, surely that count for something?"

It was Meredith.

I started gaping at her. Sure, I didn't know her that long, and add the fact that we just conversed to each other like 5 minutes ago, I'm sure as hell that she isn't the type for 'kindness.' To support my point, I'm not going to be surprised if the word even existed in her vocabulary.

She matched the Trainer's gaze evenly. Finally, the adult said, "There will be no punishment for her then. However—" Meredith's eyes flashed in annoyance, but it disappeared as quickly as it came—"I expect you to show her the ropes in my class if you so insisted in it." With that, she left.

I was still gaping at her.

She stared at me strangely, "Close your mouth. Thanks to you that I'm stuck with babysitting."

I clamped my mouth shut, and fumed. "What part of showing me the ropes is babysitting?"

She merely rolled her eyes, "Everything. Now hurry up. We have about 7 minutes left to get you to understand on how to do the warm ups correctly."

Now it was my turned to stared at her strangely. "You're weird."

"Thanks for the compliment." There wasn't even a trace of sarcasm in her tone. Damn, my first time meeting a professional.

I huffed, "You're very much welcome. Now, what are we doing again?"

"The warm-ups," she answered shortly. She shifted so that her legs are now at a shoulder length. "We start by jogging, 30 of kicking your butt and another 30 for high knees. 10 jogs in between the switch. This is to get your heartbeat rate up. Remember to keep the pace and don't falter, you'll disturb the timing if you do. The woman expect everything to be precise."

I nodded, I can handle that enough. The problem was to remember both the order and the amount for each exercises.

"Then come lunges, start with your right leg, and switch to the left. We'll do 10 for each leg, which mean 20 in total." I bristled at the implication that I am not capable of doing the math myself. "10 scissor kicks and 10 kangaroo jump—"

I cut her off with a question. "Wait, what's with kangaroo jump?"

She stared at me almost as if silently asking a question right back. But then moved her hands behind her head, legs spread, and then she jumped while bending both her upper body and legs, causing her head to almost come in contact with her knee in mid-air. Then she landed (quite professionally, I might add) with her feet back in the ground. I gawked. I'm supposed to do 10 of that?! "10 of those, you'll get use to it," she said. Then she quickly explained and demonstrated the rest as many as she could for the remaining minutes.

Oh. My. Gosh. Not only my head is going to burst ('cause of info overload), but my body ('cause of intensive training) too! I can handle it if I was in my thirteen year-old body (I think), but a six year-old? Are they trying to kill us with just the warm ups?! Worse than that Spartan Teach. of mine!

I let all that out in one big whoosh—

….

—in my head, of course. I'm not yet ready to have another panic attack with the Trainer.

A whistle blew for attention. I don't know if I should dread what's going to happen next or just bolt out of the damn door already. Acrobatic training definitely do not sounds too appealing for my taste.

"Why are we even doing something so irrelevant to soccer anyway..." I muttered under my breath and straighten up, putting more effort into looking confident than I actually felt.

"We'll simply focus on just trampolining for the rest of the class today." So, trampolining? No walking on a string in the air and no hanging on a swing for my life? No life threatening trainings? Normal enough. So this place hasn't turned into a circus just yet.

I looked around for our main equipment, the trampoline. I figured it must be big, but I didn't see it when I walked—cough—ran in. Maybe because I was in a rush? Oh, nevermind, found it. It was there at the side, near the corner. The area where we are supposed to jump in must be around 6 feet long—width and length wise—and 4 feet off the ground. There was also a safety net around it, so the person inside wouldn't accidentally drop outside of the boundary. Look promising, but I learned the hard way to never judge an object by its appearance.

Take the previous experience for example. The stairs that caused my death was as safe as it could get. But I still died, anyway.

"Get in a line with your partner. We'll go by order," the Trainer instructed, walking towards the trampoline. Kids began to shuffled around. "Your objective is to do jump above 2 feet and a half and land safely on your feet. If you stumble, or fall in any other ways, you'll have two more tries to complete it. But by the third time the attempt proved unsuccessful, you'll have your points debuted, which in turn lessen your chance to be in the representative team." By this time, everyone was in line. I asked Meredith what number we're in, and according to her, we have the number 4.

I've never been on a trampoline all my life, let alone at six. So either this turns out quite an experience that I didn't have the opportunity to enjoy, or outright humiliation in front of others. It was nerve-wrecking. I'd rather be the last to go, maybe the embarrassment would lessen.

The first group went ahead as the name "Seizan Karma" rang loud and clear. I sat next to my partner and watched as he successfully jumped above the 76.2 centimeter requirement, but stumbled when he landed. He quickly regained his balance though. But he have to do it once again, this time with more sureness and grace in it. It was a 'Pass.' His partner was next.

I watched carefully, trying to learn something just by looking. It seemed they focused more on legs power and balance. I tried to analyzed the amount of force needed for a successful jump, and how to landed by the feet. It didn't look like a difficult task, I can do it if I imitated others. For a more better words, it looks way too easy. All they have to do is to jump and land by their feet. Yep, nothing to worry about. No need to overthink it.

Though, I briefly wondered why would this simple activity do any help in soccer.

Soon, it was Meredith's turn, which she pulled off in her first try. I momentarily blamed her at the back of my mind for making my turn come so quickly as I stood up from my post. Then walked on the stairs just as she descent. I stopped at edge, and eyed the huge bed warily while shifting my feet before moving forward.

Surprisingly, it was a difficult walk.

Perhaps it was because there was only a black fabric that supported all my weight. But I found that it was more difficult trying not to topple over as the piece of fabric sunk at my every step. I carefully put my feet in front and use the other for balance as I walked, feeling silly. I stood at the center of the circle, creating a depression right at the point, very much having a depressing image as if I was about to fall into a never-ending darkness.

If anybody had told me that I'd be doing trampoline exercise right now, or if I died from a slip on the stairs and awaken in an anime for that matter, I'd have laugh at their face and call them crazy. But alas, here I am now. Everything still feels too surreal even as the material sunk beneath my feet, and I stood at the center of the equipment.

I sucked in a breath, and moved.

I slightly jumped up, and down, then jumped again, but with more force to build the momentum. After 4 times of testing and bouncing, I finally get to the real thing. With legs like the tip of an arrow and the center of the bed as the bullseye, I put all my weight down, and with a thump, I was propelled upward. The invisible air hitting my face as I fly high, and I forced myself not to spread my legs and arms as if really enjoying the almost nonexistent breeze. The force of gravity soon pulls me down again, but it was high enough for a pass when I glimpsed down to the meter outside of the net.

I didn't count that I would lose my balance as the rough texture of the bed start working its ways.

I landed on my feet alright, but so unused by the new sinking feeling that I stumbled over. The rough fabric clearly wasn't on my side, so it stubbornly sunk at every step I took. Unable to regain my balance as the gravitational force do its work, I gave up trying and let myself fall. However, I hadn't anticipated a hard edge meeting with my head. With a loud whack that could possibly serves as an alarm clock, I crumbled down to the bed and leaned against the net.I hissed out in pain (was that...splotches of star?) and rubbed the back of my head; the throbbing pain was the only thing I registered at the moment.

I'm prone to pain, ain't I?

I gritted my teeth, effectively stopping any whimpers and groans coming out of my lips. But it didn't stop a grunt from escaping as I stood up. I eyed the black fabric before me with more hate and wariness. There goes my first chance, two more left.

Once again I slipped and fell, but other than being startled and the aching pain in my head, there were no other injuries. I cursed under my breath. Why was this so hard? The others were able to pull it off as best as they could, and I did exactly as what they did, so why was I any different? I made sure to analyzed, or at least, calculated the timing and force, I should make it work.

But it didn't.

That was the second try, only one last chance. I don't know why I'm determined to pull this off. Was it because I badly don't want to be humiliated? Or was it just a childish act of proving self-worth? I scrunched my eyebrows. There was no reason to proving myself in front of strangers. As for the incoming humiliation, I have no intention of staying here for them to poke fun at me. But then, where would I go if I decided to escape? That Sanada kid said it before; the Camp is surrounded by forest, and some who went in never come back. What are the odds that I'd ever get out alive?

Yet, I have no reason for being here. I don't have a single objective now that the responsibilities from the past had been lifted.

So, what's the point in trying?

XXX

I flopped down on the grass with a groan, just right under the shade of a tree as the breeze pass by. It wasn't the sky or the ceiling of a building, but leaves and branches that were in my peripheral field. A tiny wave of relief washed over me—though disappeared as quickly as it came due to the sudden nauseous feeling—because I was beginning to get sick of staying indoors. I flexed my body, feeling the muscles stretched and the sore legs. I could see from the corner of my eyes that Akemi and Noriko had settled to sit against the tree's trunk, both resting from the strain of the training. I wiped the sweats on my forehead with the back of my hand and settled with one arm over my eyes, blocking any distractions. I let the darkness guided me to my safe sanctuary.

I need to think. That was the cue for a million of things to crash my mind.

What am I doing here? I don't have any purpose other than juggling a ball around with a reason to save my life. Sitting there being pretty isn't an option either. Thus, from what I've gathered, we are here to train, warding off enemies (if you could call them that), grow up, live, and left. If they really want us to live our second life, why hadn't they let us live a normal life? An orphanage would be good if people questioned a bunch of adults taking care of kids who appeared out of nowhere. At least they would have a rational explanation to give to those who really wanted to take us—this organization down. Given the fact that we need the medical technologies to keep us alive, they could've just them to give us in the duration of the time when we are still living with them. There shouldn't be a reason why we need to train. There shouldn't be a Camp in the first place.

Why soccer then?

This is an Inazuma Eleven world. Even if I'm not a crazy fan of the anime and only watched at least half the series, I knew enough to recognized why soccer is important at this Camp. Soccer was like the main, dominant factor in this world. Somehow it had become an addicting entertainment for civilians. The happiness kids felt when they gain victory, and the resignation and the feeling of defeated when lost. Soccer was used to decided the important things; sense of pride and protection too was decided upon the outcome of a soccer match.

In a sense, it was like war—a soften version of war—but still war, nonetheless.

For what reason? And why no one even questioned it? There were barely any hostility (aside from the little incident in the Center) or ill intents from what I've seen so far. Unless the Organization provided a pretty good excuse...

I sighed in defeat. Thinking was not good for my little brain; I wasn't born to be the intellectual type. I moved my hands to massaged my temples. "This sucks..." I grumbled.

"You're right on that. And to think we'll have to endure them for years. Years!" I heard a groan following the words. That was Akemi, probably. Seemed like she misunderstood the origin of my words. Oh well. "I feel sick."

I pushed myself up by my elbows and turned to face the duo leaning on the tree. The nauseous feeling was still there, but it was fading away quickly. "How in the world did you even pull that trampoline thing off? I failed all my three tries. Almost thought that the Trainer would start whacking me with a clipboard or something," I asked Noriko, pouting. I knew I had been overconfident back then, and apparently that was a habit from when I was small. So of all things, it followed me to this life too.

"You're not alone," Akemi piped up helpfully. I flashed her a small, grateful grin, and she returned with one of her own. The poor girl looked half-to-death when she was standing on the trampoline. I don't understand why, though.

Noriko shrugged. "The important things were the timing and balance. It wasn't that hard to be still on your feet when you landed on the bed. Try not to move too much, I supposed?"

I shook my head and groaned. "Why are we even practicing trampoline anyway? Seem useless to me." I tugged at the yellow tinted grass.

"For balance," Noriko said, "and flexibility. Most acrobatics training strengthened those two attributes and, in turn, those strengths are necessary for developing Hissatsu. That's why we were being tested on maintaining our balance during the trampoline session."

Heeeh? So the people really does think that far ahead—with Hissatsu and all—huh? Still, the training was seriously odd. Please don't tell me we will begin to learn how to do ballet in the future...

Oh, heck no...

Sensing my upcoming dread, Noriko added in quickly, "We usually do them for a few days and that's it. Too long and it might not be soccer at all. So don't worry too much about it."

"So we will still be doing ballets?" I asked her incredulously.

Both girls stared at me as if I had spoke the taboo words that were never meant to be spoken. "What?"

"Uh, no. I don't think so," Noriko warily replied.

I slumped with relief. "Good. I hate dancing." Especially ballets. My toes won't be able to handle my weight. Oh, come on! Give me a break! I wasn't fat, just for your information, but I wasn't exactly "feather weighted" either. So there.

Akemi laughed. "Any particular reason?"

"Nah, just hate dancing," I said in disgust. "Will there be any more weird trainings in the future?" I asked them. "Just so my heart will be ready if the time comes," I quickly added.

The sided-ponytail girl grinned. "I don't know. I've only been here for three weeks. All I know is that we do have those trainings that seemingly irrelevant to soccer. Noriko knows. She's here for 1 year already." Akemi nudged at the said girl with her elbow.

"Wait, one year? That that means you're older than I am?" I pointed towards the orangenette.

She ignored the rude gesture and nodded. "Yes. Right now I'm seven."

I scratched my head. "I thought we were the same age..." It was rather ironic; teenagers in the body of children. The image of kids sitting down chattering instead of gaiety capering around like how they're supposed to sprang into my mind. That had me smiling a bit; it was just like how I used to play pretends. Simply sit down and act the part of the adult with the group back at home.

Where is home?

I am definitely getting homesickness.

I crinkled my nose in distaste.

Noriko answered my previous question. "I don't really remember what we did in the past—" she looked apologetic at this—"But the objective always remained as 'improving soccer abilities.' Though we are most definitely going to be challenge in different attributes concerning soccer, such as stamina or mobility, we are also expect to at least sufficiently carry out other kinds of practice. Odds are, we might be asked to do more...weird trainings, as you put it, in the future."

"Swimming, for example," Akemi offered.

Training Camp, where training are top priorities. Fitting for its name, I thought dryly, but also weird alright. Another question struck me, too abruptly that it slipped. "Are we talking in Japanese?"

It came as a surprise for the two. "Uh, yeah? Why?" Bemusement was on the sided-ponytail girl's face.

"Because it sounds like E—eh, nevermind I asked," I brushed it off and turned to the side, biting my lip. Idiot! If I say English, they'd know that I remembered something. As much as I hated to admit it, that Health Advisor's words did get to me somehow.

Change of subject, quick!

I sighed, casually leaning on my hands. "And? What are you guys going to do?" At their perplexed expressions, I clarified, "Why are you training? Why are you playing soccer?"

Both of them glanced at each other, unsure whether to answer my question or not. I don't blame them, it was quite a personal question. So why did I even asked? I inwardly tear my hair off. It was a spur of moment, so my mouth just couldn't keep shut and decided to let the questions slip without any hindrance. Argh! I really hate it sometimes...

Noriko spoke first, but averted her eyes. "I...don't know," she admitted, "I guessed I'm doing this because I wanted to see the world? Besides, soccer is a good distraction..." Her voice became so low that it was carried away by the wind. I could only caught snippets of it to linked a coherent sentence.

"Soccer is fun! I really want to be good at it and have fun with others. It's not that bad of a sport once you understand the essence behind it," Akemi remarked, and something about her tone didn't sit well with me. But I put it off as my imagination.

"'The essence behind it?'" I echoed.

She smiled, "You'll see."

"Hooohh?" I drawled understandingly. But not understanding—or seeing—anything at all.

Noriko looked thoughtful for a while, contemplating whatever is in her mind. When finally coming out of her rumination, she spoke softly, "There's another thing, too."

I arched an eyebrow, "And that is...?"

She turned her gaze at me, it was a cringe-worthy gaze. I knew it was unintentional, but for some reason it made me want to take back my question as if it was a sweet, scarlet rose. Beautiful, but also dangerous. A double-sided blade.

But being the idiot that I am, I persisted.

"For some, it's different. " She hesitated before continuing on, "There's a rumor, actually, that had been spreading for a while now."

"Rumor?"

"Rumor," she affirmed, "Many people are searching for its source, but as far as I know, no one has yet made any progress."

Okay, this was getting tiring. Why was she beating around the bush? "If this rumor really does floats around like you put it, sooner or later it will eventually reaches me anyway. So just get straight to the point."

She did. "There is a chance to go back; to where we originally belong." Her deep green eyes flickered to mine. I knew—and deep down feared—the tingling hope that begins to bloom at the direction this discussion is going. "If my sources are right, the only way to do so is to be in the Representative team. Considering that no one has understood why the rumor had been born in the first place, we are not sure yet to how this would get us back. But few assumed that there's some sort of advanced technology—a machine—that transported us here. If that is true, then there's a chance—slim as it is—that that machine could get us back."

Akemi was quiet. And even I, who haven't really spent that much time with her, found her silence was too unsettling for her character. I glanced nervously at her, there wasn't a slight change in her expression. But when she caught me staring, she gave a small smile.

I turned my attention back to Noriko. "No concrete evidence?" I asked.

She shook her head. "Not yet."

'Not yet' implies that there's a possibility that anything could happens.

I tried another question. "Why are people so fixate in this rumor? There's still the potential lies in this rumor you spoke of."

This time, it was the (once) cheerful girl who answered. Her smile was bittersweet, and I marveled at how such a small act could raised a thousand questions.

"Because we are all desperate."

The response—short as it is—was enough to satisfy me.

I nodded, acknowledging her answer, and plopped back down to the grass, thus ending our conversation. I shield my eyes with an arm, the other resting on my stomach. The silence settled comfortably on all of us. The disquietude had long since gone.

I understood.

A small smirk found its way onto my lips.

I understood.

A way to go back, aye? Now that was a news worth of attention. If Noriko is right, then the kids here will allow another helping hands. Well, it was better than the foggy future, at least now I caught a glimpse of the path I am going to take.

Oh.

Go back I will.


She sighed tiredly, barely glancing at the files on her table. They were important, for sure, but she didn't have the mind to deal with it right now. She wished she could have a fireplace for her to burn off those papers, so she would have less work, but her office have an automated air conditioner and heater. A fireplace in the room would simply served as a mere eye-catching decoration. It wasn't needed.

Instead, she focused her gaze on the chair where the black-haired girl had previously sat in. She had instantly recognized the look in the girl's eyes the moment she digged deep into the dark brown color. She knew then that the child still remembered everything even without looking at the profile, which was given to her by the Instructor not long ago. It was the look that gave the girl away, for it contained the apprehensiveness, wariness, and the knowledge that she's in trouble despite the reassurance that she had failed to notice. There too, was a spark of life in those dark eyes. So being the experienced adult that she was, Soyokaze Rei could not miss it even if she wanted to.

For others, on the contrary, their eyes were dull and dim, those she was used to seeing. She herself had been just the same when she was their age, unable to keep her jumbled thoughts together because she just didn't know how. It sadden her when her own image reflected in those glassy eyes whenever there was a new arrival. She knew they would required much guidance, and she promised that she will be there when they needed her, hence for her reason for remaining here. So in retrospect, she was their Counselor. But in truth, she felt like she was simply a substitute for their parents. As did many other Aged who chose to stay even when they have the chance for a better life. Had she chose the wrong path? Or worse yet, had she made any mistakes just by being here?

No, that was wrong.

Who was she kidding? This was what she wanted. Watching those tiny backs growing bigger as the year passes by and steady them when they stumbled. She was not going to give it up anytime soon.

Then she shifted her eyes to the window, absentmindedly took note of the harsh sunlight that penetrates the room. The view of the window was not at all interesting, it was the same scenery she saw every day. This usual familiarity only served her thoughts to wander once more.

She always offered those with memories a choice even though she knew she could've simply ask the staff at the Hospital to wipe their memories when they are still lying defenseless. But she wasn't that kind of woman. She knew that regardless in the body of a child, their hearts were of a teenager, and that was enough reason for them to decide their fates. To wipe their memories without their consent defeats the purpose of letting them enjoy their second chance. But then again, those memories might as well be the reason for their downfalls. That was why she gave them the choices. To live with or without the extra burdens.

Though after a few meetings, she concluded that maybe it wasn't necessary to do so. Because every time, her offer was always rejected. Some with more violence than necessary. They were set on embracing the challenge and live with it, while keeping her warnings at heart; they thrived to overcome.

Even without her past, Rei knew that one day their falls would be much greater than the ones without their memories. Burdens would always remained as extra heavy package. Those long years as a player, and as a person who gone through the same thing, had taught her as such.

She sighed once again. She regretted it now when she said those harsh things. It wasn't with common sense that she knew the girl (her name was Ran, she believed?) would hate her for it. Teenagers never let people without their respect bossing them around, and Rei knew she had done nothing but stopping a single ball to earn any respect from the black-haired girl.

She smiled wryly, not to mentioned that she injected the substance when the girl wasn't even aware of her doing so. It was an immunization shot, and along with it was a little tranquilizer. Okay, she was guilty now, she hadn't meant to drugged the girl by putting the sleeping pills in the mug and then injected her. But she was bound to collapse sooner or later at the state she was in, so with a bit debating, she decided that she would let her rest. It was already late, too, so the child can't simply barged into a lesson without receiving odd punishments for interrupting the Teacher's speech. Rei shook her head, amused at where her thought had taken her. That man—the Teacher—was always on the rough side. She was used to it.

Besides the earlier encounter, she still have other things to worry about. But she was more curious in the new Master. Or perhaps it was Masters; she have no single knowledge regarding the person with the highest status in the entire Camp. The retirement of the previous Masters was quite abrupt, she thought, and then the new ones came along. They did a good job in maintaining this place, though their decisions in matters were always in a brusque manner. Often she found herself disagreeing with them, but she was just a Health Advisor with little power in the Camp.

She could only do so much.

It was her role to be in the watchlines now that she retired from her position as a player, as painful as it sounds. But she will continue to carry it out just like others who bear the same pain. Whatever those Masters have in their minds, she would let them have it their ways. If it's going to be concerning about the kids, she would then act. For now, she will finish her task at hand and have a talk with the Instructor later.

She eyed the papers before her, then grimaced.

A cup of coffee is always better than paperworks.

XXX


Published: June 26, 2013

A/N: First of all, I'd like to give a shout-out to Kusanagi Laevateinn, CutiePieSakura123, and Gentle Winter Dreams. You guys are awesome! XD (Though with you constantly watching my back, it was kinda creepy. But it was comforting nonetheless! :D) Thank you for being there and beating me with your constant drills and online lessons. At least those were better than the websites that rambled things my head couldn't take in. Though I'm sure there are still mistakes to be spot in this chapter. -.- I wonder why they're so easy to catch?

Anyway, since I didn't get to do this the last few times, I will do it now.

SPECIAL THANKS TO:

SapphireSpade, SHSL Kirino Ranmaru, I1am1the1best, Kusanagi Laevateinn, LovelyShuu, Medicine, LunarLionHeart, ShadowCyclone, CutiePieSakura123, Kitty723, Gentle Winter Dreams, Shiranai Atsune, BlueOceanz1120 (Guest), and aifa. ayunie (your name won't appear all 3 tries! Why?!). Thank you so much for reviewing! You guys are all so special! Group hug, now! (Ack, too many people. But hey, cyber world is awesome for a reason.)

ALSO THANKS TO:

Favorites: DJ Reizu Kariya, FullofStars, Gentle Winter Dreams, I1am1the1best, Kitty723, Kusanagi Laevateinn, SapphireSpade, ShadowCyclone, and XSkyeStarlX.

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Hugs for all of you too!

I never thought I'd upload chapter 4. Admittedly, I did tried to runaway a few times, but my conscience won't let me. So I typed up this (another crappy...) chapter as best as I could. At the rate we are going, we should meet Raimon in a few more chapters. I'll be able to introduce some of the boys in the next chapter, YES! *fist pumped in the air* Wish me luck!

Aaand...this chapter is over 11,000 words! 25 pages with 10 font size! Hey, at least let me wallowed in some of those 'too proud' moments. But I sincerely hoped that I didn't bored anyone with this chapter ( I probably did, though. *shot*). Should I even continue writing this...? "OTL

I said what I remembered I'm supposed to say. Other things will come later. Now, just like Ran, but instead of the heavenly-smelled bread that made you hungry, I found the black keyboard so tempting...Damn those insomnia attacks...

Cough.

I'll reply to PMs and reviews tomorrow morning! Actually, evening. My sleeping schedule is out of whack. So if there are any mistakes, well, I don't know, do what you want...?

Leave a review! Or at least, leave a sign if I should continue this thing.

-Loretta.

P/s:

To BlueOceanz1120: I'm afraid I can't accept your OC if the requirements does not meet. You still left some spots open. I'm sorry. ^^"