"Nakiri Senzaemon, the Food's Demon King. The grandfather of Erina-sama"
Soma shot Hisako an unbelieving look "You have got to be kidding me, Hisako."
"What?"
"I mean, I just had a full-blown argument with Nakiri Erina, and now I have to talk to her grandfather for admission?"
"Do you have any better ideas? The director is the only person who can approve admission to Totsuki right now."
"How about I just forge Erina's signature?"
"Great idea, if it wasn't for the fact you write like a five-year-old! Look at how you wrote your name in the admission slip. I didn't realize you were called Sumo Yokihiro!"
"Well, it's not like you need great penmanship when you are taking orders! How about you do it then?"
"You did not just tell me to do that".
The two stopped their arguing as they made it to the front desk, where a receptionist greeted the pinkette.
"Good afternoon, Arato-san! How were the transfer exams?"
"Almost all of them abstained from the examination, I have their admission slips here for your review", Hisako said, as she took out a folder from her bag.
"As expected, with Nakiri Erina being the examiner. And I am assuming this handsome young man may be the exception?" the receptionist said, as she eyed the redhead.
"Well...that's what I am hoping to get the answer to, actually. I would like to request a meeting with Senzaemon-sensei if you can, please" bowed Hisako, her heart beating.
"Oh? You must already know that he's busy with paperwork as it is, the headmaster already turned away a few meetings this afternoon. I am sorry, I don't think that it is possibl-"
"P-Please! This is of the utmost importance, please give him a call and tell him that Arato Hisako needs to talk to him!" stuttered Hisako.
The receptionist raised an eyebrow; the pink-haired was always calmer and more collected than this. "I can certainly do that, give me one moment" as she picked up the phone and dialed Nakiri Senzaemon's extension.
"Hello, Sir? I have Arato Hisako here...she would like to request an audience with you... 's about the admissions for today...yes...she's with someone...one moment..I will ask" she covered the receiver and looked at Hisako, "Will he be joining you?"
"U-Umm.." 'I didn't think I would get this far' "Y-Yes, please tell Senzaemon-sensei that I will be coming with a Yukihira Soma." Hisako looked at the redhead, who returned her glance with a quick smile.
"Okay, one moment", the receptionist turned her attention back to the phone, "Yes sir, she's with a Yukihira Soma...let me check…" Hisako watches her anxiously as she types on her keyboard, no doubt accessing the redhead's files, "yes...I have it now...mother...Tamako...father...Joichiro...yes...Yukihira Joichiro...ok...I will let them know". She hung up.
"The headmaster will see you now, please follow me", she stood up and gestured to the two.
Hisako and Soma fell behind the receptionist as she led them down the hall until she stopped at a set of double doors. "Whenever you are ready," the receptionist said, and she bowed slightly before heading back to her desk.
Soma looked at the pinkette "So what happens now?" as he scratched his head.
Hisako sighed "Honestly, I think we just have to explain to him what happened. Most likely he will ask you to make him a dish, and if he likes it, then I guess you will be part of Totsuki. J-just let me explain to him...and be respectful! He is the headmaster of the academy, after all!"
"You make it sound like I will say something offensive to him when I need his approval to pass the entrance exam. Come on, Hisako, give me some credit!"
"Just watch your tone, Yukihira!" she said as she knocked on the door.
"Enter!" boomed a voice from the other side
Hisako and Soma looked at each other 'Here goes nothing…'
Nakiri Senzaemon is a sight to behold. The elderly man has long spiky gray hair with a thick mustache and beard. Dressed in an olive-colored yukata, the headmaster radiates an intense, intimidating aura while his scar, which runs diagonally from the middle of his forehead down to his right cheek, was always a source of speculation as to what the director did before becoming headmaster.
He is one of the most respected and feared figures in the culinary world. He established the Totsuki Culinary Academy. The Demon King.
And Hisako has to convince him to approve of Yukihira Soma.
Looking up from the mountain of paperwork in front of him, Senzaemon motioned the two of them closer. He smiled inwardly at the pink-haired girl as she walked nearer; she was the reason for her granddaughter's slow change back to her normal self. Ever since her father broke her, this girl has been chipping slowly at Erina's emotional barriers, giving semblance to the girl she once was before Azami's brainwash. Behind her, stood the redhead, who was fidgeting with the headband wrapped around his wrist 'Joichiro's boy' Senzaemon thought, 'He looks just like his mother…'
Leaning forward, he addressed the girl, "Good afternoon Arato, you need to see me?"
"Y-Yes, sir! It's about the transfer exams today." Hisako gushed "I- I am looking for approval for one of the transfer students"
"Ah. Isn't my granddaughter in charge of the examinations today?" the headmaster said, "You must really like this boy to personally vouch for him, Arato", his eyes twinkling as she blushed at the headmaster's assumption.
"I- It's not like that, headmaster! He didn't actually take the test yet...well...Erina-sama and Yukihira had a bit of an argument…" Hisako's voice trailed off as Senzaemon gave her a calculating look.
"An argument? Well then, Yukihira Soma, why don't you tell me what happened. It must be quite an argument for you to not take the test." as he looked at the redhead.
'Please don't say something stupid, please don't say something stupid, please don't say something stupid.' Hisako thought.
"Hey, Gramps!" Soma started
'YOU IDIOT! YOU ABSOLUTE STUPID IDIOT! I AM GOING TO KILL HIM!'
Pinching both of Soma's cheeks, Hisako growled "It is Senzaemon-sensei, not Gramps, Yukihira! What did I just say to you about being respectful!"
"OW! OWW! LET GO HISAKO! OW! I AM SORRY!" Soma yelped as Hisako pulled even harder.
Witnessing the scene, Senzaemon gave a booming laugh. "You are definitely Joichiro's son, Yukihira Soma!"
Breaking free of Hisako's fingers, Soma massaged his cheeks. "You know my dad, Gramps?...I- I mean Senzaemon-sensei." he quickly corrected after seeing Hisako's glare.
"Yes, your father was once a student here at Totsuki. He was quite the chef too and lived in the Polar Star Dormitory. Never one to listen to authority, sleeping in class, and had quite an interest in cooking the most horrendous dishes"
"Heh...that does sound like my Pops..his latest dish was using snake meat and served it in a soup broth with green onions," Soma said sheepishly, "That was a disgusting dish, even worse than my squid tentacles with peanut butter"
Senzaemon shook his head, 'Still with those dishes, Joichiro, and with your son following in your footsteps...'
"So you were saying you argued with my granddaughter? What happened?"
"Well…" Soma glanced at Hisako, who was looking at him intently, and said slowly "We had different viewpoints on what makes a chef great, and an argument about my family diner" 'No need to explain everything down to the letter, it IS her grandfather after all'
Senzaemon frowned, "I see. So different viewpoints and an argument about your diner led you to not take the test? Don't you think you are simplifying this a little too much for me? We will try again, and this time I hope you will be more truthful with me. What happened?"
'Damn Gramps…' Soma thought 'Did I really think I can get away with just that answer though'. Looking over at Hisako, she was fidgeting with her skirt while lost in thought. Catching his glance, she nodded as if to say 'Just be honest with him, it's okay'.
Closing his eyes, Soma's thoughts replayed the last interaction he had with the heiress. The way she looked at him when he walked away, it looked like she was broken, not just because of how their conversation played out, but something more. She had also hurt him, and he can feel the sting of her words hitting him again, as he thought back to their heated argument. But no matter what she did to him, that was between him and the heiress. He will not repeat what happened to the headmaster, not the complete version.
Reopening his eyes, he gave Hisako a small nod and smiled slightly 'I am sorry Hisako, but I can't do it. I can't tell the full truth'.
Turning to the headmaster he spoke, "The other transfers that were there with me, they were saying that I am not worthy to be a part of Totsuki. I had just a diner background after all, and I would be lying if I said it didn't hurt to hear their judgmental criticisms."
"When Nakiri said I only had diner experience, I assumed she was thinking lowly of me as well, and I lashed out at her. My emotions got the better of me, and I walked away from the examination. It wasn't until I was outside that I realized how much of an idiot I was to do that; that's when I ran into Hisako, and she convinced me to come to you. So...here I am, hoping that you can make an exception for me, or, at the very least, a chance to prove myself." Soma finished. He chanced a glance at Hisako, who was staring at him with shock. She pulled him closer to her.
"What the HELL are you saying, that's nowhere close to what happened!" she whispered at him urgently
"Am I supposed to tell him that she was being a condescending jerk? And I am only using the word jerk because she's your friend"
"This is YOUR admission exam! If he says no, you are D-O-N-E"
"And if I told him the full truth, I would ruin his relationship with his granddaughter!"
"God, you are such an idiot!"
"Oh come on, I was doing it for you too. I am thinking of her well-being!"
"With respect to Erina-sama, you think this is the best time to think about that when your future is on the line?"
"I mean, it's just my future here at Totsuki, I still have Yukihira's, remember?"
"Oh my GOD, you are such an idiot, forget it, we are not friends anymore"
"Don't be like that, Hishoko"
"WHAT DID YOU JUST CALL ME?!"
"AHEM!" Senzaemon coughed, as the two teens broke apart and stared at the headmaster. "So... this is why you abandoned the exam, Yukihira Soma? From mostly what the other transfer students said? It has nothing to do with my granddaughter?"
"Yes, headmaster", Soma glanced quickly at the headmaster, before looking away.
Senzaemon stared at the redhead, as he saw nothing but hurt radiating from the boy's eyes at the mere mention of his granddaughter. Undoubtedly, he's choosing to hide his emotions so the pink hair didn't notice it, and the elder knew that it was most definitely not the transfer students' words that affected the redhead.
Choosing to let that matter go, for the time being, Senzaemon addressed Arato.
"How about you Arato? Is there anything that you want to add?"
"N-no, headmaster, everything seems a-accurate." Hisako said, faltering under the headmaster's gaze
"I see…" Senzaemon stared at the two intently as he stood. "Very well, I approve of being the examiner for your admission exam, Yukihira Soma. Come, we will see whether you are worthy of being in Totsuki." as he led them to his personal kitchen.
Hisako stared at the headmaster's back in disbelief. 'Did he agree just like that?' Shaking that thought aside, she pushed Soma after the headmaster. "Don't you dare fail on me, Yukihira Soma"
"Wouldn't dream of it, Hishoko" he teased, as she glared back at him, "Let's go, I have to satisfy the Demon King" as they quickly followed the Totsuki director to his kitchen.
"Arato, there's no need to keep standing while the boy cooks", Senzaemon said gruffly "Come, sit down", gesturing to the chair next to him.
"T-Thank you headmaster", Hisako said as she sat, embarrassed at the invitation.
After entering the kitchen, Senzaemon had instructed Soma to follow the same exam criteria that Erina had given; the main ingredient being eggs, he will have 30 minutes to complete his dish. The boy had eagerly accepted, and immediately unwrapped his headband around his wrist and tied it around his head.
Senzaemon and Hisako watched as Soma moved with an unexpected elegance around the kitchen, as he prepared the ingredients to make his dish. The chicken broth he had simmering on the stove was filling the entire kitchen with a heavenly aroma, and Hisako watched anxiously as he grabbed eggs and onions from the ingredients table
"So Arato, what made you decide to help the boy?" Senzaemon asked as she jumped, almost falling off the chair.
"N-No reason, director" stuttered Hisako
"Hmm. And there's nothing else that happened?"
"I- I am afraid that I don't understand, headmaster" Hisako said quietly
"So you mean to tell me that Yukihira Soma refused to take the transfer exam because of snide comments from the other transfers and from my granddaughter's remarks. And I am to assume my granddaughter crying in the car ride back to the mansion is because she antagonized the boy. I am hoping you can explain the gaps in logic for me" Senzaemon quipped, the corners of his mouth lifting slightly.
'Erina-sama was crying?! I thought she was fine...I am a terrible aide!' Hisako breathed, even more so when she realized that the headmaster is acutely aware that there's more to it than the explanation Soma gave.
"H-How did you know?"
"Arato, I have cameras in all of the examination halls, the driver who picked up Erina works for me. I know that this is not simply a random argument, and even if it was, it would not cause Erina to behave like this."
Hisako's heart sank as she stared at the floor 'I am so foolish, thinking that the headmaster wouldn't know. He owns Totsuki after all'
"And I daresay, young Erina was probably the catalyst in this little argument." Senzaemon huffed. "There's no need to look so conflicted, I am not here to pursue who is at fault here... nor would I be crushing Yukihira Soma for daring to hurt my granddaughter, although some of my staff was thinking that when I was informed of their little argument"
Hisako looked up, not realizing she was holding her breath, "R-Really? But why?"
Senzaemon chuckled "Did Yukihira Soma mention anything about his father?"
Frowning while looking at the redhead, Hisako tried to remember "His father's name is Yukihira Joichiro, the head chef of Restaurant Yukihira at the Sumire Shopping District. That's all I know"
"Very good. Back then, Yukihira Joichiro was actually called Saiba Joichiro, a student of the 69th Generation."
"Saiba Joichiro...Saiba?! Part of the Elite Ten in his second year and rose to the 2nd seat by the third! He took part in a Team Shokugeki where he faced 50 opponents himself and won, earning him a spot in BLUE! That man...is Yukihira Soma's father?!"
"Precisely. Saiba Joichiro, the Asura, is Soma's father. I daresay that man could have been the First Seat if he didn't spend his time cooking those horrendous dishes and strayed from his Second Seat duties. Even now, he's still making waves in the culinary world, just he prefers to stay in the shadows now"
"The Asura...Yukihira Soma…" as Hisako "How come he didn't say anything about this, if he told Erina-sama about how his father used to be part of Totsuki, this wouldn't have happened!"
"Joichiro didn't tell Soma about his reputation at Totsuki" Senzaemon replied "He wishes to have Soma experience Totsuki life with no pressure of being the son of Asura. It would be best if you did not mention this to him either, and for his father tell him when he's ready to know it."
Hisako watched Soma put the finishing touches on his dish, and nodded. A thought just occurred to her "Headmaster... if you knew Soma was the son of Saiba Joichiro, you were not going to have him leave Totsuki for no reason...meaning you would step in to prevent him from leaving"
Senzaemon laughed, "While he is Joichiro's boy, he still has to prove himself worthy to be part of the 92nd Generation, even if I did give him the invitation for the entrance exam. I would not intervene if he was judged fairly and failed, but given the circumstances now, it's safe to say that was not an option from the beginning. And I daresay," as he gave a smile to Hisako "You don't mind that it turned out this way, Miss Arato?"
Hisako looked away, her face turning red, "N-No headmaster, I don't mind, I just hope he lives up to your expectations"
"I am confident he will, but we shall see soon. If my guess is right, Yukihira Soma will be a shining jewel for this year, and most importantly, the guiding light that will set my granddaughter free."
" I- I am not quite sure I understand, Headmaster. Yukihira and Erina-sama are not exactly in the best of terms right now."
"You will see in time, Arato. But for now, it seems young Yukihira has completed his dish. We shall see whether the spawn of Asura lives up to his father's reputation"
"Yes sir"
They both watched as Soma walked up to them with a tray.
"Sorry to keep you waiting! I have made you a specialty dish at Yukihira's, number 8 on our secret menu! One bowl for Gramps, and one for Hishoko!"
"What did you just call me, Yukihira!?"
"You agreed to it, remember?"
"You are insufferabl-", Hisako said as she looked at the dish. "Y-Yukihira what is this?!"
"Furikake Rice" as Soma put down two bowls of rice with two smaller bowls containing scrambled eggs.
"W-WHAT! YOU MADE FURIKAKE RICE?! WHAT WERE YOU THINKIN-" Hisako shouted
Senzaemon interrupted, "Arato, that's not all there is to this dish, isn't that right Yukihira Soma?"
Soma gave a goofy grin, "Right you are Gramps! The dish hasn't taken its true form yet. Just look inside this bowl first, Hisako" as he gave the pinkette a wink.
Frowning, Hisako leaned forward and looked inside the bowl of scrambled eggs. What is inside? There's something behind the egg..what are those golden cubes?! "What's in there Yukihira?"
The redhead smiled, "Watch." as he picked up the bowl and emptied it over the rice. "I present to you, Transforming Furikake Rice!"
Hisako watched as those golden cubes landed on the rice 'The rice's heat is melting it! The more it lands, the rice gets coated more and more. And this aroma, it's...chicken! From the broth?! How? With trembling fingers, she grabbed a pair of chopsticks while Soma did the same process on the headmaster's portion.
"Order up!" the redhead said, removing his headband, as he watched Senzaemon and Hisako take the first bite.
".. This is Nikogori..you simmered the chicken wings in seasoning, sake, and soy sauce?" Senzaemon asked
Soma nodded "That's right! I chilled the broth to harden it and then cut it into finer pieces. Once it goes on top of the rice, it melts and merges with the eggs. The infusion of the two, from the richness and saltiness flavor of the chicken and the sweetness of the egg, helps elevate this dish to new heights", he explained
Hisako was in heaven. If she wasn't already sitting, she was certain her knees would give. 'This explosion of flavor, I have never had anything like this before..! How is he able to create something like this?!'
"So Hisako, what do you think? Is it delicious?" Soma leaned in closer, his golden orbs studying the girl.
"H-How are you able to make something like this, Yukihira?"
"My pops taught me that through originality and creativity, you can transform even everyday dishes. Through experimentation, we produce new flavors that have never been seen before. That is how we are at Yukihira's, we experiment through trial and error, it's that process that makes our dishes shine" Soma said quietly. "So...what do you think, Hisako?"
"I- It's delicious, Yukihira" as they exchanged a smile. But we will find out whether you have what it takes to satisfy the Demon King.
"How about you, Gramps, what do you thin-" as they both turned towards the headmaster.
Senzaemon was bare-chested as he gave a roaring laugh.
"WHY IS HE HALF NAKED!" the two teens screamed internally.
The headmaster chuckled at their reactions. "Nothing to worry about, it's a Nakiri thing. It happens when I am impressed with a dish" as he put back on his yukata as if stripping randomly was the most common thing in the world.
'Man...Gramps is weird,' Soma thought. Hisako, however, had more pressing concerns.
"Impressed? Does that mean that you approve of Yukihira's dish, headmaster?" Hisako said, trying to control her excitement
"Yes. Yukihira Soma, I approve of your dish. I hereby give my approval to you joining Totsuki! You will join me at the entrance ceremony tomorrow, it is a tradition for any transfers to introduce themselves to the rest of the students."
'YES YES YES! HE MADE IT', Hisako's face was radiant, "We did it Yukihira, you got into Totsuki! I knew you would make i-" She stopped as Soma grabbed her into a hug. "Y-Yukihira! W-What are you doing!"
"I made it because of you, Hisako. If you didn't bring me here, I wouldn't have been given the chance. Thank you." he whispered
Hisako relaxed and returned his hug. Catching the eye of the headmaster, he simply nodded with a smile and winked mischievously. Closing her eyes, she rested her head on his shoulder and smiled softly. "You are welcome, Soma".
Senzaemon eyed the two teens as they slowly broke apart, 'Yukihira Soma, your unorthodox cooking methods would cause quite a stir amongst the rest of the students. I have high hopes for you...Joichiro, you raised a fine boy. And you, Arato Hisako, this may be the first time I have seen you act on your own accord. My granddaughter has no need for people to follow her every whim, she needs someone that can stand beside her, as an equal.'
"I will forward your exam results immediately. However, it is getting late, Yukihira Soma. Speak to my receptionist outside, and she will provide you with lodging to one of the visitor rooms here at Totsuki. You can stay there for tonight. Do you have plans for a permanent residence?"
"My pops said to join Polar Star, that's where he stayed while he was here," Soma said, as he scratched his neck.
'Ah, Polar Star Dormitory. The Golden Era, with Gin Dojima, Joichiro Yukihira, Riko Ebisawa and Azami... Azami, how far you have fallen from grace...brainwashing your own daughter'
"Very well. Yukihira Soma, if you can allow me to have a quick word with Arato here"
Soma stared at the headmaster and the pinkette, hesitating before giving a nod, "Sure Gramps, I will wait for her outside". Giving Hisako one last look, Soma closed the door behind him.
"Y-Yes headmaster? What do you need to talk to me about?" Hisako squeaked, 'Please don't tell me I am being punished for this…'
"It's about Yukihira Soma", the headmaster paused as he saw her eyes widen, "he tries to hide his feelings behind his jokes and smile, but his eyes betray him. We would both be foolish to think he put everything behind him. Don't let him dwell on it alone. Please keep an eye on him, and my granddaughter. I trust you Arato."
Hisako blinked, and nodded quickly "I will, headmaster."
"Good, that will be all", Senzaemon opened the door for the aide.
"Thank you, Senzaemon-sensei" Hisako bowed.
"Bye, Gramps!" shouted the redhead from down the hall
"What did I just tell you about being respectful to the headmaster?!", Hisako yelled back
"He doesn't mind it!"
"That's not the point!"
Senzaemon watched the two teens walk away, still bickering. Shaking his head amusedly 'The joys of youth' he thought as he closed the door.
"So what now, Hisako", Soma asked as they left the admissions office, twirling a visitor key while he waited for her to respond.
"It's getting late, I should be going back to the Nakiri mansion," Hisako said as she checked the time on her phone.
"The Nakiri mansion, you live there?" Soma shot her a puzzled look.
"Yes, as Erina-sama's aide, I am provided lodging in case she has an immediate need for me. I have been staying with her since I was young"
"Ah. Well, being the gentleman I am" Soma gave her a goofy grin "Let me walk you home! I would like to see what the inside of the Nakiri mansion is like."
Hisako shook her head "You won't be able to enter, it's gated. Only pre-approved people are allowed in"
"...Seriously?"
"I am serious, the Nakiri name is one of the most respected culinary names in the world. As such, Senzaemon-sensei treats security very seriously. There are patrols and guard dogs in the grounds as well."
"Well...there goes sneaking in then."
"Don't even try it Yukihira", the girl giggled at the boy's disappointed face, "You can, however, walk me home."
"Of course! Lead the way!' as the two teens headed in the direction of the Nakiri manor.
The two teens chatted about the Totsuki curriculum, and how the high expulsion rate for inadequacy raises exponentially once students enter high school. Numerous mandatory events for the students happen frequently; the sole purpose is to cut down the number of students, leaving only the best of the best. It is not uncommon that by graduation, the number of students remaining for that graduation year will be less than 10. However, as Hisako emphasized, should one graduate from Totsuki, they will be the most sought-after chefs in the world due to the sole fact they survived.
Hisako then explained about the Elite Ten Council, which are the top ten best student chefs in the entire academy. Grade does not matter for entry into the Ten, but rather their cooking skill. 'The Asura was one of them' she thought, as she went into detail about the authority the Elite Ten has in the academy, and how they can overrule even the decision of the school director if there's a majority vote.
The conversation then switched to their personal lives where Hisako talked about her family's background. The Arato family is renowned for their extensive knowledge and research of Chinese medicine, and Hisako uses this experience by infusing traditional Chinese medicinal ingredients into her cooking. Soma gushed about his experiences at Yukihira's since he was 3, and the secret menu that the father and son had created during the 12 years he worked there. During that time, the two had cook-offs with the customers being the judges of their dishes.
"You have GOT to be kidding, how many times did you lose to your father?"
"489 times" Soma muttered
"And how many wins?"
"Zero"
Hisako giggled, "You lost 489 times in a row?"
The boy grinned, "Yep, but I got a feeling that my losing streak will end soon. Pops never went easy on me, but I never gave up, and I won't stop until I win against him. It's only a matter of time!"
Hisako looked at the boy, shaking her head disbelievingly, 'How can he be so motivated even after losing so many times..'
"And how did you get your scar?"
"Oh, about that. I got it when I was younger…hit my head against the edge of the table. The fish I was handling slipped out of my hands, so I dived for it before it fell. Kind of misjudged the dive.. "chuckled Soma
"You got the scar over a fish?" she looked at him incredulously.
"Heh, yeah. Mom wasn't very happy about that" he said sheepishly.
"You are unbelievable, Yukihira" as they both laughed.
"And how about your headband" she gestured towards the white cloth tied around his left wrist.
"This was my mom's, she gave it to me before she...passed away. She was my motivation to cook, and I wear it so I can remind myself that I wouldn't be where I am without her. Pops and I, we miss her so much.." Soma trailed off, staring at the ground as they walked.
Hisako stared softly at the redhead, "I am sorry for bringing it up", as she walked closer to him and gave him a quick hug. "She would have been proud of you for entering Totsuki…" she squeezed lightly. Remembering the headmaster's words, "And what you said before..about always going to be there for me...I will be there for you too..don't bottle up anything. Okay?"
Soma returns her gaze "I won't. Thanks Hisako", giving her a warm smile "And if you don't mind, you can call me Soma, you know"
The girl rolled her eyes and said teasingly "I will think about it...Yukihira". as she let go of him "We are here." The two looked up at the mansion, "I will see you tomorrow?" as the pinkette turned to look at the redhead.
"Yeah. I should get some rest too. Hopefully, I don't get lost finding the place. See you, Hisako"
"Wait, give me your phone Yukihira". The redhead complies, and Hisako adds her phone number to his contacts. "Here. I added myself into your contacts so we can stay in touch. Message me if you need anything", she said, as her cheeks went pink.
"Will do! Good night Hisako."
"Good night, Soma"
Soma gave her a surprised expression but broke into a radiant smile. Waving at her, he walked back down the road towards the academy while Hisako nodded to the guard, who opened the gates to let her in.
Neither of them noticed that a silver-haired girl witnessed this whole interaction, and her red eyes seemed to sparkle with anticipation.
'Hmm, Who might Hishoko-san be talking to?' Smiling mischievously, she skipped to the entrance of the mansion, eager to find out more information from the pink-haired girl.
Bzzt! Hisako's phone vibrated as a new message came in
Unknown [ 8:12 PM ]: Hishoko?
Shaking her head, the aide added the redhead's name into her contacts
Arato Hisako [ 8:12 PM ]: Yukihira, when are you going to stop calling me that?
Soma Yukihira [ 8:12 PM ]: Like...never?
Hisako Arato [ 8:12 PM ]: ….Idiot. You didn't get lost, did you?
Soma Yukihira [ 8:13 PM ]: Come on Hisako, a little confidence in me wouldn't hurt
Hisako Arato [ 8:13 PM ]: Just text me when you are there.
Soma Yukihira [ 8:14 PM ]: Yes, milady. Your wish is my command.
That idiot, Hisako smiled as she opened the mansion doors.
"Hi-sho-ko!" A voice sang as Hisako stared up at Nakiri Alice, who was bounding down the steps with a gigantic smile on her face.
"Lady Alice" Hisako bowed, "A-And my name is Hisako! How may I help you?"
"W-ellll, you can first tell me who was that handsome red-haired boy that walked you home" Alice teased.
"W-What?! He's nobody! Just the new transfer student attending Totsuki!"
"Mouuu! And do you give every new transfer student your phone number?" her smile getting even bigger as Hisako's phone buzzed as if to confirm Alice's suspicion. 'Damn my phone, why now of all times!' Hisako cringed as the two looked at the new message.
Soma Yukihira [ 8: 32 PM ]: I made it! This room is bigger than my diner! And free snacks!
"Oooh. So his name is Yukihira Soma. What is he like, Hishoko-san?" Alice prodded
Hisako sighed; she knew Alice would not stop until she got her way.
"He passed the entrance exam today, the headmaster approved of his dish"
"Grandfather approved of it?! What did he make?"
"Furikake Rice."
"He got Grandfather's approval with Furikake rice?" Alice said incredulously, "Why was grandfather judging the dish? Wasn't Erina supposed to be the examiner today?"
Hisako paused, 'It's better not to explain the entire situation, everyone in the Nakiri manor knows Alice loves to gossip.'
Weighing her words carefully, " Senzaemon-sensei stepped in due to an argument between Erina-sama and Yukihira Soma, and he proved himself by making a dish that impressed the headmaster"
"An argument between my dear cousin and Soma-kun? It has to be Erina's doing" huffed Alice "She does love to act all high and mighty amongst people, no doubt saying something she regretted"
'How right you are Alice-sama,' Hisako thought. She had always been impressed with the silver-haired girl's ability to read situations, although she wished that she would stop antagonizing her mistress, something that she seems to be doing on a regular basis.
"Hmmm, and does Yukihira Soma have a girlfriend? A boy like him, he's bound to be taken very soon, especially when people find out his dish was approved by my Grandfather"
"I- I am not sure milady, you can ask him about that tomorrow at the ceremony, he has to give a speech for being the only transfer student that passed" Hisako stuttered
"Oh I will, I can't wait to see what this Yukihira Soma can do," Alice said, as her red eyes shone in excitement. "But thanks Hishoko, I will see you later!" as she skipped back up the steps, giggling when she heard the pink hair yell back at her.
"IT'S HISAKO!"
After getting a quick snack from the kitchen, Hisako unlocked the door to her room and immediately fell face-first into her bed. 'What a rollercoaster of emotions today' she thought, as she checked her phone. 'Oops, I forgot to message Yukihira back'
Hisako Arato [ 9:00 PM ]: You got spotted by Nakiri Alice, Erina-sama's cousin. She's excited to meet you in person so you will probably see her tomorrow. Anyway, go get some rest, remember, the opening ceremony is at 8 AM.
Soma Yukihira [ 9:01 PM ]: Another Nakiri? Hope I can get on better terms with her than Nakiri Number One. And the ceremony is at 8 in the morning?!
Hisako Arato [ 9:02 PM ]: It obviously isn't 8 in the evening, Yukihira! For the love of God, set an alarm!
Soma Yukihira [ 9:02 PM ]: Why can't you just call me like an hour before?
Hisako Arato [ 9:02 PM ] : JUST SET IT. GOOD NIGHT YUKIHIRA!
Soma Yukihira [ 9:03 PM ] : Ok ok fine. See you tomorrow!
Hisako shook her head. Of all the people that I chose to be friends with, it has to be the laziest one.
Stifling a yawn, she quickly changed out of her uniform and headed to the bathroom with her pajamas. 'A quick bath would be nice' as she filled her bathtub.
Her phone buzzed from the bathroom table, and she walked over to check her phone.
Erina Nakiri [ 9:05 PM ]: Hisako? Are you still awake?
Erina-sama! I haven't spoken to her since this afternoon!
Hisako Arato [ 9:05 PM ] : Yes, Erina-sama! Is there anything you need?
Erina Nakiri [ 9:06 PM ]: Can you come to my room? I want to talk to you about something.
Hisako Arato [ 9:06 PM ]: Yes, of course! Please give me 30 minutes!
Erina Nakiri [ 9:07 PM ]: Thank you Hisako. See you soon.
'What could she be needing my opinion about this late at night?' Hisako thought as she entered the tub, closing her eyes as she felt the hot water wash over her.
Hisako knocked on her mistress's door, "Miss Erina?"
"Come in, Hisako," said the voice inside, as she opened the door.
The blonde was seated at her table, still dressed in her uniform as she read the pile of forms in front of her. She glanced up when her aide came nearer and gave a small smile to her friend, which was happily returned.
"What can I do to help, Erina-sama?"
"Yes, I want to talk to you about something" as she put down the form she was reading. "It's about Y-Yukihira Soma." She looked away as her aide gave her a surprised look.
"Grandfather just told me that he passed a transfer student today, and I- I can't help but think about him. If I didn't hurt him during the examination, or if I gave him a chance, w-who knows, there could have been two people that passed..." as the blonde closed her eyes, trying to organize her thoughts
'The headmaster told her that he passed a student? Did he not tell her who he passed?' Hisako thought 'And I thought only Lady Alice would do something like this, it seems the director himself wants to have some fun once in a while', as she shook her head. 'But...I am not going to be the one to tell her' she thought.
"It's unexpected that the director himself would accept a student, Erina-sama, who could have done such a thing?" Hisako said casually.
"Only someone that is extremely talented, to impress Grandfather. He's going to be introducing himself tomorrow to the rest of the students. I will find out at the ceremony" the heiress said, not noticing her aide's small smile.
"And what about Yukihira Soma, Erina-sama? What are you going to do with him?" asked the aide.
"I don't know Hisako, I want to apologize for what I said, but I don't know when I will have the chance to meet him. I don't even know if he even wants to speak to me" she muttered as she buried her head into her arms.
Hisako said softly, "We will approach that when the time comes, Erina-sama, maybe the opportunity will come up soon. In the meantime, I wouldn't recommend letting Yukihira Soma occupy too much of your thoughts" as the blonde perked up, flushing furiously
"H-Hisako! I- It's not like that! W-Whatever!" she said, as her aide giggled at her reaction, "G-Go and get some sleep! It's late!"
"As you wish, Erina-sama. Please get some sleep soon" bowed Hisako, noting the blonde's flustered expression. 'Lady Alice may be onto something about this whole teasing thing,' she thought as she closed the door behind her.
Erina watched as Hisako left the room. Sighing, she stood and walked to her balcony, trying to clear her head, to no avail. Her pride once again stopped her from telling the full truth, even to her dearest friend. She wanted to talk about how the redhead has affected her, how she regretted her words that she can no longer take back. The look he gave her as he walked away, she can feel the contempt and hate radiating from his glare. It shook her, so much so that she broke into tears on the ride back to the mansion.
She wondered where he is and what he's doing. There were so many things that she wanted to say to him, and she only wished that he would give her the time for her to explain everything.
Erina willed herself to allow just one more thought of the redhead before she got back to work.
'Yukihira Soma, when will I see you again?'
Hello again! Thank you for taking the time to read my new chapter! I appreciate all of the follows, favorites that you all have given! Thank you to the people who have also left reviews or sent me personal messages, where it helped me to shape the characters without falling too far OOC (I hope). My goal is to have a little more character development for the supporting characters, and of course, a potential romance option for the redhead. It will only be a single choice, not a harem, although I have not yet decided on who it is I want to ship. If you have a preference, I would love to hear it!
Again, thank you so much for reading!
Disclaimer: I do not own Shokugeki no Soma