Author Notes:
Queen of Cyrum: ^^ I'm not very good with fanfiction.net's way of evrything, so I'll just e-mail it to you, if that's okay? It'll be titled {"Just Me and You" new chap}or something around that. ^_^
Aries127: Thankies! And of course Ernest is superadorable! ^.^ The black haired boy…Well, he's a character I had to throw in…O.o; I sorta found out that Garu and Ernest were the only goddess pilots in a class together…very strange…I'll still fit everyone (but Teela) in here somehow! ^_^
KoburaDoragon: No Ernest death!… 'Sides, no one want's me to start crying again…I think we've had enough of my water works! ^.^;;;
Kuja'sMoon: Yep, there's going to be much more! ^_^To be honest I have no idea where this is going to stop! X.x;
Thanks everyone for the reviews! ^____^ Thank ya, Merith, Aries, Leoangel, Queen of Cyrum, Hime SailrJupitr, KoburaDoragon, and Kuja'sMoon!
Okay I would LOVE some advice, suggestions, or just reviews… I take requests for other MK characters to pop up in my story ((ex. Force, Arcad, ect…)) … And well, anyone have something they'd like to see happen or another couple??? But what I would really love is suggestions for stuff to happen or any info on the G.O.A. tests… I've been sorta wingin' it. ^_^;;
Sorry for it taking so long for me to get it up! Also, sorry if anyone's way out of character… But no more from the caffeine high author, onto the fic!!!!
________________________________________________________________
Just You and Me
By ShadowSilence
To say the least, waking up the next morning wasn't a pleasant experience. Garu woke me up, unfortunately.
He shook me, making skin-to-skin contact with me. I woke up to the sensation of all his emotions and thoughts slamming against me. It's like being pricked with a million needles and it hurts, even the good-natured emotions and thoughts. I could sense his dark hidden pain, I felt his joy, I felt his friendship towards me, I felt it all and I could read his thoughts...everything. I hate this ability. It makes me feel like I'm intruding on things no one should intrude on, and I hate every moment of it.
I literally jumped away from him, slamming my back against the wall. I was sweating, and close to panting just from the touch of two hands…No, this normally doesn't happen. This just happens when someone does not have control over their emotions and when they were seriously hurting emotionally and/or their thoughts are running wild. From how much pain I was in, I would say it was a combination of both.
My eye caught sight of Gareas, and concern and worry were running off of him, but what caught my eye was that he was stretching his hand out to touch and comfort me. I forced myself further away, and I regretted it as I saw the look of hurt flicker across his jade colored eyes. Although, at the moment I wasn't focusing on it, he had many thoughts of bewilderment and concern for what was wrong with me.
"Please…Don't touch me." I finally managed to choke out, my blue eyes locking with his green eyes. Gareas nodded in a dazed manner, and stumbled backwards. Since he was now a safe distance away, I let myself crumple to a pile on my stiff mattress. I wrapped my arms around myself, trying to calm my labored breathing. I drew my knees up to my chest, suddenly feeling very afraid. Even my friends can hurt me. Not that he meant too, he was only trying to wake me. I mentally scolded myself, because really he wasn't my friend. All Gareas had done for me was say a few sentences and generally treat me like a human, none of which, meant he wanted to be friends with me.
After a few long moments, I felt, physically, better. My breathing, heart rate, and thoughts calmed. I let my arms wrap loosely around my knees. I gave a tiny sigh, and I raised my head and gazed at Gareas from under my long blonde locks. During all of this he had not moved from beside my bed, beside me. The candidate was already dressed in the long sleeve version of the G.O.A. uniform we would have to wear to go hear the entrance speech. His emerald hued hair was as unruly as ever. I smiled up at him softly.
"Are you okay!?…Can you tell me what the hell just happen!?!" Garu exclaimed obviously upset and confused.
I lowered my gaze to the bed sheets. It was an honest question, and he deserved to know. I would be asking the same question if that happen to him and I had no idea of his…curse. I guess, this would be the end of whatever there was between us.
"I am fine, but I…I'll understand if you never want to see or talk to me again, I'm sure you can apply for a new room mate…" I started but, I was cut off by him. Garu had an intense look of concentration on his face and I could feel the wave of thought he was in.
" No, Ernest, I don't want another room mate. I just want to know what happen!… Look…. This is apparently, a big deal for you…So you don't have to tell me, just tell me what you want me to do so…this…won't happen again!"
I finally found the courage to raise my eyes to meet his, again. He was being relatively calm despite what just happen. Perhaps he was just trying to be understanding. What he said sounded reasonable. I ask him not to touch me, and he agrees not to touch my skin and he does not find out what I am.
" Then…Please…Don't touch me? My skin that is…" I said, my voice was very close to becoming a mere whisper in the quiet room. I could sense his immediate thought rather strongly it was along the lines of //The hell!!!? Did something happen to him because of me, or is it something to do with his EX? This is so fu—flipped up! But…I guess, I'll have to go along with it, there's no sense in knowing why I can't touch him, if it only makes him insecure.// Garu didn't say anything for an instant, he just stared at me wide eyed, before his usual laid back grin popped back on his face.
"Alright! Well, if this is settled…" He trailed off his eyes glancing at a clock that was hanging above the door. I didn't notice it before, I guess, because it isn't making any noise and it doesn't stand out. Both of his green eyes widen again, and he turned back to me. "We have five minutes to get to breakfast!!! Ernest, hurry up and get dressed!"
I really wasn't in the mood to miss breakfast, so soon as he finished his sentence, I was up and digging out the clothes and throwing them on. I simply was ecstatic about the fact that this uniformish costume had sleeves and pants! Which was very lucky for me because the entire academy would be in there. When I stepped out of the bathroom, Garu grabbed my arm. I did this quick intake of air, which ended sounding like a squeak. He lifted one thin eyebrow at me before asking, "This is okay, right?"
I gave a terse nod, and he started dragging me out the room and down the hall. I believe half way down the hall he got tired of dragging me and he yelled for me to "hurry up if you wanna eat!"
I recognized the fact he wasn't going to slow his high pace, I sped my pace up, not wishing to be dragged. Gareas watched me catch up and he smirked, letting go of my arm. We turned one corner and slowed down to a leisurely walk.
Garu was panting, but trying his best to hide it and I was just outright panting, there was no sense in hiding it. Knowing we had little time to spare, we swiftly opened the door to the cafeteria. My eyes quickly scanned over the vast room. It was full, and we were one of the last to arrive. Gareas, taking led as always, walked right up to the line area, and I followed. There was a large man behind the counter, who had his back turned to us.
"Hey, we'd like our breakfast…" Garu said loudly, trying to get the man's attention and trying, obviously, to be 'manly' about it and hide the fact that the man scared him. I really don't blame him; the man was not only large in size, but he had a large bloody butcher knife in one hand.
Lucky for us, the man turned to use with a butcher knife in his hand, which made me vaguely nervous. He snorted, and handed us two trays of food and two health drinks.
None of it looked very edible. We turned to walk away when he slammed the butcher knife down on something and shouted, "EAT!!!"
Needless to say, that sent us running away from him.
When we were a safe distance away from the crazed food man, we glanced around. We did need a table to eat at. Not locating any small tables that had two seats available, I turned back to look at Gareas. It seemed he had spotted one, and when I followed his gaze, I saw one of the candidates from another our group, sitting at a table alone waving in our direction. Garu gazed at me, silently and, unknowingly, mentally, asking if it would be okay to sit with him. I nodded, silently, and we walked over there. Gareas took a seat next to the other candidate, and I took a seat next to Garu. I placed my tray on the table and the health drink next to it. I took a moment to run my eyes over the candidate. The boy had long blonde wavy hair that was pulled back in a elastic band, but what really was impressing were his brown eyes. They were full of life. Absolutely brimming with spirit. The saying "the eyes are only the window of the soul" is much truer that some think.
"Hiya, Garu!" The teen greeted cheerily. He was grinning and he appeared childishly happy that someone had come to sit and chat with him. Both of his brown orbs landed on me, and he lifted an eyebrow.
"Who's he?" He asked Garu. Knowing I was not being talked to, I gave him no attention. I wasn't use to being around others, so if I did not have to answer, I wasn't, most probably. In fact, I picked up the fork and started examining the food on my plate, trying to decide which was the least likely to kill me.
"This is Ernest Cuore, my room mate. Ernest," Garu started, and since he had actually addressed me, I gave him my attention. "This is Aya. I meet him on the shuttle. You'll just have to ignore his rudeness, though!"
Aya frowned, pretending to be hurt by his friend's statement, not only that but he changed his voice to sound like that of a woman's. "Garu…How could you!?!"
He playfully tossed his head to the side, adding a sense of drama. " I have no idea what you are talking about!"
Gareas laughed a little, and also went into the whole dramatic scene, as though they had acted it out a million times. "Oh, Aya! I could because you know it's true!" Both candidates burst into laughter. It wasn't really funny, but the tone Garu and Aya used was more than enough to make anyone laugh.
I stifled my snicker at their act, but I soon quit laughing as I realized everyone in the café was watching us. I quickly blushed, and pretended to be eating. When I noticed a camera zoom in though, I cleared my throat and the two calmed their laughter to hushed snickers, and started eating.
That was about the time I took a sip of my drink. The moment the taste hit my mouth my eyes widen, and I quickly swallowed. It was not…very tasty. I decided, I would not be drinking this stuff. I would just drink from the faucet in my room or something. Just not this.
After we all finished our meal we went to the auditorium. Some big class man was going to be giving us a speech. We were early, but only by a few minutes. Gareas found Instructor Azuma for us. His class was in front, after all the entrance speech was to us new recruits. The one thing I was nervous about was the thought that there might be many people there and as my eyes scanned over I found I was correct. There was a large amount of people in the auditorium, so I was not able to relax as much as I would like.
Gareas almost instantly started to nonchalantly whisper to Aya, who's class was behind us. I didn't pay much attention to it, though, I was busy watching the men on stage and trying to ignore the crowd's thoughts. I was very uncomfortable, to say the least. When I know what people are thinking, it feels like I'm violating them in some way and if I can I try to avoid it. And what's worse is my little brother Erts, he has almost the same EX as me, but stronger. I can barely even imagine. I really pity him, I hope my parents do not send him here too. If they do…
A man in a dark uniform stepped forward, interrupting my train of thought. The microphone he had in his hand, crackled, and the auditorium became deathly silent.
"Welcome gentlemen…From this day on you are candidates for Goddess. I want you to know that you have been selectively chosen because of your superior abilities. I congratulate you on your enrollment, gentlemen…" The man began, however Gareas and Aya didn't care very much for the, as they called it, 'lame' speech. "To become a pilot of the Goddesses… The Ingrids…the humanoid combat mechs…You will be taking extensive curriculums." Aya snickered at whatever Garu had said and Garu just grinned cheerfully. However, I noticed the Instructor didn't approve of Aya's actions and he lightly hit him on his head with a clipboard Aya placed one of his hands on his offended head, and glared at Gareas, who merely smirked smugly.
" The duration of your training will be three years. It will be short and hard. Of course, not all of you will make it. But… never forget that your success is in your own hands. Those who prove their skill will surely be used as pilots. I'm anticipating your abilities, gentlemen. Dismissed."
The hymn started playing, and after saluting the man, we were all able to go. Well, not exactly, we had to go to our rooms and change into our 'casual' G.O.A. uniform, the revealing one I dislike. Then we had to go with our Instructor to the health center. There we were explained the rules and told the consequences of breaking a rule. One I really didn't understand, was the one that prohibits using EX on G.O.A…But I really don't get a choice as to when I use it. Oh well, I guess that one doesn't apply to us telepathists.
Azuma said he had tests to run on us to make sure we were operating properly. The Instructor opened one door and we all stared wide-eyed at what looked like a giant hamster wheel. Garu laughed a little at the funny looking machine and he received a glare from Azuma. I don't believe I have ever seen anything quite like it. The wheel machine, that is.
"The schedule of entry candidates starts with various physical checks." Azuma explained, walking further into the room. "The check is split into nine stages: Jumping. Reflex movement. Grip. Physical strength. Sits ups and knee bends. Rhythm proficiency. Finally, the walking ability." I sighed at the thought of all those tests, and I also wondered if we would be made to complete them all today. Most probably not, a few moments later, my suspicions were confirmed by the Instructor.
"Today you will be doing stages one and two, the rest of the day you are free."
Around lunch time we finished both, and we were free to go, much to my relief. We had completed the jumping and walking ability stages. Both were fairly easy, and I wasn't about to complain, because I knew it would be getting harder with each passing day. We were told we could go to any of the recreation rooms aboard G.O.A., that is all except the training and Pro- Ing rooms. I decided to go eat lunch and then return to my room. Something along those lines or maybe go to the music room.
As I exited the test room, I noticed Gareas and Aya going the other direction. I actually stopped and considered going with them, but I figured I would be intruding. Besides, going to my dorm sounds much more inviting. I slumped my shoulders forward and scoffed my shoes on the floor purposely. My entire life I have been home schooled, and it was a scarce occasion when I was allowed out, and now I was thrown to the G.O.A. It was like two different worlds in every way but one. I was still the misfit, but I didn't have Erts to be a misfit with me.
I sluggishly walked back to my dorm, avoiding the people I saw along my away. I found my way back to the dorm, and as I went to open it I noticed something under the dorm number.
It had the numbers 38, 39 engraved in gold. I frowned at the thought. So the candidates 38 and 39 have always been in this room. I guess I'm fortunate then. So far, Garu and Aya are the only people in this entire academy I even like the least. I couldn't imagine having to be in the room with anyone else.
I opened the door and headed for my bed. As I figured, no one was there. I gave the clock a quick glance and found that it was 11:14, around 46 minutes until lunch. I slipped my shoes off and kicked them to the side of my bed. I laid down on my bed, and shoved my face into my pillow. I drew my sheets over myself, and curled up, enjoying the warmth of my bed.
The door creaked open. My head reflexively jerked up to see Gareas stepping in the room, and the door shutting behind him. I sheepishly smiled at him, I had not been expecting him to come back, at least not for a while. He grinned at me and bound over, his hair bouncing from on side to the other. The green haired teen sat down on the end of my bed.
"What ya doin' in here, Ernest? It can't be very fun!" Gareas inquired, with a goofy lopsided grin. I considered what he meant. I was in here because I wanted to be, and it is not fun, but there is nothing more productive to do.
I settled for a shy, "I have nothing better to do."
He did not like that. Garu was in a good mood, but those few words were like a switch; a switch that sent him into rage. Gareas frowned, he stood up and leaned towards me. His face was so close to mine, I could feel his warm breath trickling together with my own, and his emerald locks tickling against my face.
"Don't tell me that! We're new here and there is a hell of a lot to do here, Ernest, don't you have a sense of adventure!? Your fourteen years old and, yet, you act like an old man who wants to be left alone!!"
My aqua colored eyes drifted to look away from Gareas. I did not reply to Garu, and I believe he thought I was ignoring him, which only enraged him more. He grabbed my shirt collar, pulling me out of bed slightly. "Ernest, do you enjoy acting anti social!?! Do you have fun being alone and depressed?!!"
This confused me…As he said those words, I felt a twinge of his pain, it was pain over something that had happen years ago. It made me wonder about Gareas. It made me consider the thought that maybe Garu wasn't always so confident and so popular…Maybe he was like me long ago? Maybe that was why he tried to help and talk to me…
But none of that could be right, could it?
I lifted my eyes to look straight into his jade hued depths. I believe eyes are a window to the soul, it means something to look into someone's eyes, at least to me it does. I intended on answering him, since he was serious about this entire subject. Of course, when you don't know the answer to the question, it's hard to answer…I like being alone, sometimes, but also like having one or two people around me.
"No, Gareas, I do not enjoy being anti-social or being alone. In fact, I enjoy being around people, as long as it is a small number. But it is people who decide they do not want to be around me." I responded quietly, not knowing how he would react to it. However, Garu let go of my shirt, letting me slide back onto my bed. Not only that, but he seemed to be trying to get a grip on his self.
"Whoever would choose not to be around you is an idiot, Ernest! Do yourself a favor and try to put a little more effort in making friends!" He gave me a weak sheepish grin and sat down on the edge of my bed, again. I watched him with sudden amusement, contemplating what he said…I decided I would be a tad bit bold…
"Gareas…would you be my friend?" It came out as whisper and I seriously wondered, for an instant, if he had even heard me. Then, he turned his head to me, saying "Ernest, do I look like an idiot?! 'Course I'll be friends with you!"
I smiled shyly at him and I was almost to the point of embarrassment. Gareas winked mischievously and stood up, stretching. "I think it's about time to go to lunch, you coming?"
Garu inquired, ending it with a yawn. I nodded, and I standing stood up, readjusting my clothes.
I slid on my shoes, and turned around to see Garu leaning against the door frame waiting for me.
He looked at me awkwardly, and the frowned.
"Okay. No sleeves, so I can't drag you along, so could you hurry up, or I'll be forced to carry you." The green haired candidate said, suddenly grinning mischievously. I believed he would pick me up and carry me. I gulped, as Gareas ran out of the room, and I followed.
We made it to the cafeteria and we weren't panting or heaving for breath, which was an improvement. Like earlier, we sat with Aya, the only difference was there was a new candidate.
He was one of the candidates in our group, the one with black hair…the one I can't get a reading on. I was very curious of this one, it was liking he was shielding his mind specifically for me.
"Yo, Aya! And…Okay…who the hell are you?" Gareas called out, and I was very tempted to roll my eyes at his behavior. The teen looked up at Garu and gave him this strange 'are you insane, I'm trying to eat, could you be quiet' look. Despite his look, he did give a brief answer.
"Kenji."
"Yeah… Kenji's my brother. Oh, and the rash and loud one with green hair is Gareas or Garu, and the ever shy and quiet blonde is Ernest!" Aya announced to him, grinning insanely. Kenji nodded his confirmation and went back to eating, and I too, started eating. Mean while, Aya and Garu looked at each other, then at Kenji, and me and sighed.
"Geez!" Gareas exclaimed, shaking his head sadly.
With lunch finished, all four of us went to the game room, where we spent most of the evening. It was rather up to date and had very advanced games. The room was filled with digital chess and fighting games, skate boarding games, board games, hunting and even rhythm games, and many more I can not name. Not long after we entered, Gareas challenged me to a digital chess game. I accepted the challenge. It was a close game. I had my ups and downs, as did Gareas. Around the end, I noticed that Gareas was using the same strategies and I took advantage of that. I scolded myself as well. I thought he was a brilliant strategist and he's just using a few in different orders and ways. An hour before curfew, we finished the game.
The outcome was that had I won. I didn't cheat by using my ability either.
Gareas frowned disagreeably and went on a rage, I believe he was trying to break the computer. Despite him acting like a complete spoiled sport, it was hilarious and cute. The only reason I tried to stop him was because I feared that he would be penalized for his behavior, I sheepishly smiled and 'admitted' that he had, indeed, won and that the computer was wrong.
After the computer incident I was finally able to go back to the dorm and sleep. I knew I would be awoken at an ungodly hour in the morning so I wanted my sleep. On the walk back to the room, I noticed Garu had this hyper and mischievous smirk on his face. Worried that I would become the victim of some devious plot, I read his thoughts and found out just how competitive Gareas is. He wanted to be the first in bed. I took upon myself to make sure that my one friend wasn't spoiled rotten and expecting the world to move for him. I was going to get in that bathroom first. As soon as we got to our room, I made a dash for the bathroom, mind you that these shoes have good grip on carpet flooring. I quickly got dressed and ready for bed. By the time I walked out, Gareas was already in bed with the lights out.
"You're slow." He teased, sleepily from his bed.
Although he couldn't see it, I stuck my tongue out at him. "You're competitive."
That said, I collapsed on my bed, pulling the nice warm blankets over myself. "Good night, Gareas." I murmured into the dark room. I received no answer other than an echo of my own words. Something was up…I could sense Gareas…Wait! Was he moving?!…Hmm… I sighed, and rolled over facing the hyper pilot, who wasn't in bed, but was close to mine.
"Do you need something Garu?"
As if it would help hide him, he stopped moving. One was leg was up and it was a little funny. No, it would have been very funny, if it wasn't almost eleven and I wasn't getting up at four thirty. I shook my head, ruffling my blonde locks against the pillow.
"I can see you clearly Garu, standing still doesn't help. So, please, go back to bed? We both need our rest." I said, silently, begging my roommate to go to sleep. He has a lot of energy, and he uses it to be loud, rude, and emotional. I absentmindedly wondered how such an attractive young teen have so much energy and use so much energy and still have this much energy.
A faint sigh, interrupted my…thoughts of Gareas. I think he finally decided to give up, and I smiled sheepishly as he retreated to his bed.
"Nite Ern." Gareas whispered, I could hear hurt in his voice. False hurt that is.
He was still playing around.
"Good night Gareas." I felt like I should say more, but I'm not very good with words. Actions speak better than words…But I'm too shy, I admit. I tend to get nervous around people, because I know people do judge you by how you look, speak, what you wear, and even by your EX.
Then again, shyness can sometimes be man's worst enemy.
I didn't know what to think of Gareas. I didn't sense any real hurt in him, but his tone didn't sound right. I can't help but wonder if I really did hurt him. But I don't believe I said anything harshly, but some people interpret things wrongly.
"Gareas, I'm sorry, if I hurt you." I finally said, knowing I was going to either have to say it or blame myself for hurting Gareas. I heard a few ruffled noises, and a yawn. Did I wake him?
"Huh? What'ya apologizing for, Ernest?" I remember smiling at his speech, and thinking he sounded just too cute when he was sleepy. Back on track, Ernest. "Oh… I was apologizing for earlier. I'm sorry." Now that surprised him, he took quite a few long moments for his sleepy mind to grasp the concept.
"No! I wasn't mad at you or hurt…or hell, anything! It was a joke! If I was mad or upset with you, Ernest, you'd know it. I'm not one to stay quiet about those things! Besides, we're friends.
If I hurt you or make you mad at me, tell me, so we can work something out! Alright, Ernest?!?"
I, timidly, smiled at him through the darkness answering him with a quiet, "Yes".
The little misunderstanding out of the way, we said our last, and our final good nights. At long last, I could sleep. I would have to think more about what happen later, because the moment my eyes closed, I was gone.
To Be Continued…
Queen of Cyrum: ^^ I'm not very good with fanfiction.net's way of evrything, so I'll just e-mail it to you, if that's okay? It'll be titled {"Just Me and You" new chap}or something around that. ^_^
Aries127: Thankies! And of course Ernest is superadorable! ^.^ The black haired boy…Well, he's a character I had to throw in…O.o; I sorta found out that Garu and Ernest were the only goddess pilots in a class together…very strange…I'll still fit everyone (but Teela) in here somehow! ^_^
KoburaDoragon: No Ernest death!… 'Sides, no one want's me to start crying again…I think we've had enough of my water works! ^.^;;;
Kuja'sMoon: Yep, there's going to be much more! ^_^To be honest I have no idea where this is going to stop! X.x;
Thanks everyone for the reviews! ^____^ Thank ya, Merith, Aries, Leoangel, Queen of Cyrum, Hime SailrJupitr, KoburaDoragon, and Kuja'sMoon!
Okay I would LOVE some advice, suggestions, or just reviews… I take requests for other MK characters to pop up in my story ((ex. Force, Arcad, ect…)) … And well, anyone have something they'd like to see happen or another couple??? But what I would really love is suggestions for stuff to happen or any info on the G.O.A. tests… I've been sorta wingin' it. ^_^;;
Sorry for it taking so long for me to get it up! Also, sorry if anyone's way out of character… But no more from the caffeine high author, onto the fic!!!!
________________________________________________________________
Just You and Me
By ShadowSilence
To say the least, waking up the next morning wasn't a pleasant experience. Garu woke me up, unfortunately.
He shook me, making skin-to-skin contact with me. I woke up to the sensation of all his emotions and thoughts slamming against me. It's like being pricked with a million needles and it hurts, even the good-natured emotions and thoughts. I could sense his dark hidden pain, I felt his joy, I felt his friendship towards me, I felt it all and I could read his thoughts...everything. I hate this ability. It makes me feel like I'm intruding on things no one should intrude on, and I hate every moment of it.
I literally jumped away from him, slamming my back against the wall. I was sweating, and close to panting just from the touch of two hands…No, this normally doesn't happen. This just happens when someone does not have control over their emotions and when they were seriously hurting emotionally and/or their thoughts are running wild. From how much pain I was in, I would say it was a combination of both.
My eye caught sight of Gareas, and concern and worry were running off of him, but what caught my eye was that he was stretching his hand out to touch and comfort me. I forced myself further away, and I regretted it as I saw the look of hurt flicker across his jade colored eyes. Although, at the moment I wasn't focusing on it, he had many thoughts of bewilderment and concern for what was wrong with me.
"Please…Don't touch me." I finally managed to choke out, my blue eyes locking with his green eyes. Gareas nodded in a dazed manner, and stumbled backwards. Since he was now a safe distance away, I let myself crumple to a pile on my stiff mattress. I wrapped my arms around myself, trying to calm my labored breathing. I drew my knees up to my chest, suddenly feeling very afraid. Even my friends can hurt me. Not that he meant too, he was only trying to wake me. I mentally scolded myself, because really he wasn't my friend. All Gareas had done for me was say a few sentences and generally treat me like a human, none of which, meant he wanted to be friends with me.
After a few long moments, I felt, physically, better. My breathing, heart rate, and thoughts calmed. I let my arms wrap loosely around my knees. I gave a tiny sigh, and I raised my head and gazed at Gareas from under my long blonde locks. During all of this he had not moved from beside my bed, beside me. The candidate was already dressed in the long sleeve version of the G.O.A. uniform we would have to wear to go hear the entrance speech. His emerald hued hair was as unruly as ever. I smiled up at him softly.
"Are you okay!?…Can you tell me what the hell just happen!?!" Garu exclaimed obviously upset and confused.
I lowered my gaze to the bed sheets. It was an honest question, and he deserved to know. I would be asking the same question if that happen to him and I had no idea of his…curse. I guess, this would be the end of whatever there was between us.
"I am fine, but I…I'll understand if you never want to see or talk to me again, I'm sure you can apply for a new room mate…" I started but, I was cut off by him. Garu had an intense look of concentration on his face and I could feel the wave of thought he was in.
" No, Ernest, I don't want another room mate. I just want to know what happen!… Look…. This is apparently, a big deal for you…So you don't have to tell me, just tell me what you want me to do so…this…won't happen again!"
I finally found the courage to raise my eyes to meet his, again. He was being relatively calm despite what just happen. Perhaps he was just trying to be understanding. What he said sounded reasonable. I ask him not to touch me, and he agrees not to touch my skin and he does not find out what I am.
" Then…Please…Don't touch me? My skin that is…" I said, my voice was very close to becoming a mere whisper in the quiet room. I could sense his immediate thought rather strongly it was along the lines of //The hell!!!? Did something happen to him because of me, or is it something to do with his EX? This is so fu—flipped up! But…I guess, I'll have to go along with it, there's no sense in knowing why I can't touch him, if it only makes him insecure.// Garu didn't say anything for an instant, he just stared at me wide eyed, before his usual laid back grin popped back on his face.
"Alright! Well, if this is settled…" He trailed off his eyes glancing at a clock that was hanging above the door. I didn't notice it before, I guess, because it isn't making any noise and it doesn't stand out. Both of his green eyes widen again, and he turned back to me. "We have five minutes to get to breakfast!!! Ernest, hurry up and get dressed!"
I really wasn't in the mood to miss breakfast, so soon as he finished his sentence, I was up and digging out the clothes and throwing them on. I simply was ecstatic about the fact that this uniformish costume had sleeves and pants! Which was very lucky for me because the entire academy would be in there. When I stepped out of the bathroom, Garu grabbed my arm. I did this quick intake of air, which ended sounding like a squeak. He lifted one thin eyebrow at me before asking, "This is okay, right?"
I gave a terse nod, and he started dragging me out the room and down the hall. I believe half way down the hall he got tired of dragging me and he yelled for me to "hurry up if you wanna eat!"
I recognized the fact he wasn't going to slow his high pace, I sped my pace up, not wishing to be dragged. Gareas watched me catch up and he smirked, letting go of my arm. We turned one corner and slowed down to a leisurely walk.
Garu was panting, but trying his best to hide it and I was just outright panting, there was no sense in hiding it. Knowing we had little time to spare, we swiftly opened the door to the cafeteria. My eyes quickly scanned over the vast room. It was full, and we were one of the last to arrive. Gareas, taking led as always, walked right up to the line area, and I followed. There was a large man behind the counter, who had his back turned to us.
"Hey, we'd like our breakfast…" Garu said loudly, trying to get the man's attention and trying, obviously, to be 'manly' about it and hide the fact that the man scared him. I really don't blame him; the man was not only large in size, but he had a large bloody butcher knife in one hand.
Lucky for us, the man turned to use with a butcher knife in his hand, which made me vaguely nervous. He snorted, and handed us two trays of food and two health drinks.
None of it looked very edible. We turned to walk away when he slammed the butcher knife down on something and shouted, "EAT!!!"
Needless to say, that sent us running away from him.
When we were a safe distance away from the crazed food man, we glanced around. We did need a table to eat at. Not locating any small tables that had two seats available, I turned back to look at Gareas. It seemed he had spotted one, and when I followed his gaze, I saw one of the candidates from another our group, sitting at a table alone waving in our direction. Garu gazed at me, silently and, unknowingly, mentally, asking if it would be okay to sit with him. I nodded, silently, and we walked over there. Gareas took a seat next to the other candidate, and I took a seat next to Garu. I placed my tray on the table and the health drink next to it. I took a moment to run my eyes over the candidate. The boy had long blonde wavy hair that was pulled back in a elastic band, but what really was impressing were his brown eyes. They were full of life. Absolutely brimming with spirit. The saying "the eyes are only the window of the soul" is much truer that some think.
"Hiya, Garu!" The teen greeted cheerily. He was grinning and he appeared childishly happy that someone had come to sit and chat with him. Both of his brown orbs landed on me, and he lifted an eyebrow.
"Who's he?" He asked Garu. Knowing I was not being talked to, I gave him no attention. I wasn't use to being around others, so if I did not have to answer, I wasn't, most probably. In fact, I picked up the fork and started examining the food on my plate, trying to decide which was the least likely to kill me.
"This is Ernest Cuore, my room mate. Ernest," Garu started, and since he had actually addressed me, I gave him my attention. "This is Aya. I meet him on the shuttle. You'll just have to ignore his rudeness, though!"
Aya frowned, pretending to be hurt by his friend's statement, not only that but he changed his voice to sound like that of a woman's. "Garu…How could you!?!"
He playfully tossed his head to the side, adding a sense of drama. " I have no idea what you are talking about!"
Gareas laughed a little, and also went into the whole dramatic scene, as though they had acted it out a million times. "Oh, Aya! I could because you know it's true!" Both candidates burst into laughter. It wasn't really funny, but the tone Garu and Aya used was more than enough to make anyone laugh.
I stifled my snicker at their act, but I soon quit laughing as I realized everyone in the café was watching us. I quickly blushed, and pretended to be eating. When I noticed a camera zoom in though, I cleared my throat and the two calmed their laughter to hushed snickers, and started eating.
That was about the time I took a sip of my drink. The moment the taste hit my mouth my eyes widen, and I quickly swallowed. It was not…very tasty. I decided, I would not be drinking this stuff. I would just drink from the faucet in my room or something. Just not this.
After we all finished our meal we went to the auditorium. Some big class man was going to be giving us a speech. We were early, but only by a few minutes. Gareas found Instructor Azuma for us. His class was in front, after all the entrance speech was to us new recruits. The one thing I was nervous about was the thought that there might be many people there and as my eyes scanned over I found I was correct. There was a large amount of people in the auditorium, so I was not able to relax as much as I would like.
Gareas almost instantly started to nonchalantly whisper to Aya, who's class was behind us. I didn't pay much attention to it, though, I was busy watching the men on stage and trying to ignore the crowd's thoughts. I was very uncomfortable, to say the least. When I know what people are thinking, it feels like I'm violating them in some way and if I can I try to avoid it. And what's worse is my little brother Erts, he has almost the same EX as me, but stronger. I can barely even imagine. I really pity him, I hope my parents do not send him here too. If they do…
A man in a dark uniform stepped forward, interrupting my train of thought. The microphone he had in his hand, crackled, and the auditorium became deathly silent.
"Welcome gentlemen…From this day on you are candidates for Goddess. I want you to know that you have been selectively chosen because of your superior abilities. I congratulate you on your enrollment, gentlemen…" The man began, however Gareas and Aya didn't care very much for the, as they called it, 'lame' speech. "To become a pilot of the Goddesses… The Ingrids…the humanoid combat mechs…You will be taking extensive curriculums." Aya snickered at whatever Garu had said and Garu just grinned cheerfully. However, I noticed the Instructor didn't approve of Aya's actions and he lightly hit him on his head with a clipboard Aya placed one of his hands on his offended head, and glared at Gareas, who merely smirked smugly.
" The duration of your training will be three years. It will be short and hard. Of course, not all of you will make it. But… never forget that your success is in your own hands. Those who prove their skill will surely be used as pilots. I'm anticipating your abilities, gentlemen. Dismissed."
The hymn started playing, and after saluting the man, we were all able to go. Well, not exactly, we had to go to our rooms and change into our 'casual' G.O.A. uniform, the revealing one I dislike. Then we had to go with our Instructor to the health center. There we were explained the rules and told the consequences of breaking a rule. One I really didn't understand, was the one that prohibits using EX on G.O.A…But I really don't get a choice as to when I use it. Oh well, I guess that one doesn't apply to us telepathists.
Azuma said he had tests to run on us to make sure we were operating properly. The Instructor opened one door and we all stared wide-eyed at what looked like a giant hamster wheel. Garu laughed a little at the funny looking machine and he received a glare from Azuma. I don't believe I have ever seen anything quite like it. The wheel machine, that is.
"The schedule of entry candidates starts with various physical checks." Azuma explained, walking further into the room. "The check is split into nine stages: Jumping. Reflex movement. Grip. Physical strength. Sits ups and knee bends. Rhythm proficiency. Finally, the walking ability." I sighed at the thought of all those tests, and I also wondered if we would be made to complete them all today. Most probably not, a few moments later, my suspicions were confirmed by the Instructor.
"Today you will be doing stages one and two, the rest of the day you are free."
Around lunch time we finished both, and we were free to go, much to my relief. We had completed the jumping and walking ability stages. Both were fairly easy, and I wasn't about to complain, because I knew it would be getting harder with each passing day. We were told we could go to any of the recreation rooms aboard G.O.A., that is all except the training and Pro- Ing rooms. I decided to go eat lunch and then return to my room. Something along those lines or maybe go to the music room.
As I exited the test room, I noticed Gareas and Aya going the other direction. I actually stopped and considered going with them, but I figured I would be intruding. Besides, going to my dorm sounds much more inviting. I slumped my shoulders forward and scoffed my shoes on the floor purposely. My entire life I have been home schooled, and it was a scarce occasion when I was allowed out, and now I was thrown to the G.O.A. It was like two different worlds in every way but one. I was still the misfit, but I didn't have Erts to be a misfit with me.
I sluggishly walked back to my dorm, avoiding the people I saw along my away. I found my way back to the dorm, and as I went to open it I noticed something under the dorm number.
It had the numbers 38, 39 engraved in gold. I frowned at the thought. So the candidates 38 and 39 have always been in this room. I guess I'm fortunate then. So far, Garu and Aya are the only people in this entire academy I even like the least. I couldn't imagine having to be in the room with anyone else.
I opened the door and headed for my bed. As I figured, no one was there. I gave the clock a quick glance and found that it was 11:14, around 46 minutes until lunch. I slipped my shoes off and kicked them to the side of my bed. I laid down on my bed, and shoved my face into my pillow. I drew my sheets over myself, and curled up, enjoying the warmth of my bed.
The door creaked open. My head reflexively jerked up to see Gareas stepping in the room, and the door shutting behind him. I sheepishly smiled at him, I had not been expecting him to come back, at least not for a while. He grinned at me and bound over, his hair bouncing from on side to the other. The green haired teen sat down on the end of my bed.
"What ya doin' in here, Ernest? It can't be very fun!" Gareas inquired, with a goofy lopsided grin. I considered what he meant. I was in here because I wanted to be, and it is not fun, but there is nothing more productive to do.
I settled for a shy, "I have nothing better to do."
He did not like that. Garu was in a good mood, but those few words were like a switch; a switch that sent him into rage. Gareas frowned, he stood up and leaned towards me. His face was so close to mine, I could feel his warm breath trickling together with my own, and his emerald locks tickling against my face.
"Don't tell me that! We're new here and there is a hell of a lot to do here, Ernest, don't you have a sense of adventure!? Your fourteen years old and, yet, you act like an old man who wants to be left alone!!"
My aqua colored eyes drifted to look away from Gareas. I did not reply to Garu, and I believe he thought I was ignoring him, which only enraged him more. He grabbed my shirt collar, pulling me out of bed slightly. "Ernest, do you enjoy acting anti social!?! Do you have fun being alone and depressed?!!"
This confused me…As he said those words, I felt a twinge of his pain, it was pain over something that had happen years ago. It made me wonder about Gareas. It made me consider the thought that maybe Garu wasn't always so confident and so popular…Maybe he was like me long ago? Maybe that was why he tried to help and talk to me…
But none of that could be right, could it?
I lifted my eyes to look straight into his jade hued depths. I believe eyes are a window to the soul, it means something to look into someone's eyes, at least to me it does. I intended on answering him, since he was serious about this entire subject. Of course, when you don't know the answer to the question, it's hard to answer…I like being alone, sometimes, but also like having one or two people around me.
"No, Gareas, I do not enjoy being anti-social or being alone. In fact, I enjoy being around people, as long as it is a small number. But it is people who decide they do not want to be around me." I responded quietly, not knowing how he would react to it. However, Garu let go of my shirt, letting me slide back onto my bed. Not only that, but he seemed to be trying to get a grip on his self.
"Whoever would choose not to be around you is an idiot, Ernest! Do yourself a favor and try to put a little more effort in making friends!" He gave me a weak sheepish grin and sat down on the edge of my bed, again. I watched him with sudden amusement, contemplating what he said…I decided I would be a tad bit bold…
"Gareas…would you be my friend?" It came out as whisper and I seriously wondered, for an instant, if he had even heard me. Then, he turned his head to me, saying "Ernest, do I look like an idiot?! 'Course I'll be friends with you!"
I smiled shyly at him and I was almost to the point of embarrassment. Gareas winked mischievously and stood up, stretching. "I think it's about time to go to lunch, you coming?"
Garu inquired, ending it with a yawn. I nodded, and I standing stood up, readjusting my clothes.
I slid on my shoes, and turned around to see Garu leaning against the door frame waiting for me.
He looked at me awkwardly, and the frowned.
"Okay. No sleeves, so I can't drag you along, so could you hurry up, or I'll be forced to carry you." The green haired candidate said, suddenly grinning mischievously. I believed he would pick me up and carry me. I gulped, as Gareas ran out of the room, and I followed.
We made it to the cafeteria and we weren't panting or heaving for breath, which was an improvement. Like earlier, we sat with Aya, the only difference was there was a new candidate.
He was one of the candidates in our group, the one with black hair…the one I can't get a reading on. I was very curious of this one, it was liking he was shielding his mind specifically for me.
"Yo, Aya! And…Okay…who the hell are you?" Gareas called out, and I was very tempted to roll my eyes at his behavior. The teen looked up at Garu and gave him this strange 'are you insane, I'm trying to eat, could you be quiet' look. Despite his look, he did give a brief answer.
"Kenji."
"Yeah… Kenji's my brother. Oh, and the rash and loud one with green hair is Gareas or Garu, and the ever shy and quiet blonde is Ernest!" Aya announced to him, grinning insanely. Kenji nodded his confirmation and went back to eating, and I too, started eating. Mean while, Aya and Garu looked at each other, then at Kenji, and me and sighed.
"Geez!" Gareas exclaimed, shaking his head sadly.
With lunch finished, all four of us went to the game room, where we spent most of the evening. It was rather up to date and had very advanced games. The room was filled with digital chess and fighting games, skate boarding games, board games, hunting and even rhythm games, and many more I can not name. Not long after we entered, Gareas challenged me to a digital chess game. I accepted the challenge. It was a close game. I had my ups and downs, as did Gareas. Around the end, I noticed that Gareas was using the same strategies and I took advantage of that. I scolded myself as well. I thought he was a brilliant strategist and he's just using a few in different orders and ways. An hour before curfew, we finished the game.
The outcome was that had I won. I didn't cheat by using my ability either.
Gareas frowned disagreeably and went on a rage, I believe he was trying to break the computer. Despite him acting like a complete spoiled sport, it was hilarious and cute. The only reason I tried to stop him was because I feared that he would be penalized for his behavior, I sheepishly smiled and 'admitted' that he had, indeed, won and that the computer was wrong.
After the computer incident I was finally able to go back to the dorm and sleep. I knew I would be awoken at an ungodly hour in the morning so I wanted my sleep. On the walk back to the room, I noticed Garu had this hyper and mischievous smirk on his face. Worried that I would become the victim of some devious plot, I read his thoughts and found out just how competitive Gareas is. He wanted to be the first in bed. I took upon myself to make sure that my one friend wasn't spoiled rotten and expecting the world to move for him. I was going to get in that bathroom first. As soon as we got to our room, I made a dash for the bathroom, mind you that these shoes have good grip on carpet flooring. I quickly got dressed and ready for bed. By the time I walked out, Gareas was already in bed with the lights out.
"You're slow." He teased, sleepily from his bed.
Although he couldn't see it, I stuck my tongue out at him. "You're competitive."
That said, I collapsed on my bed, pulling the nice warm blankets over myself. "Good night, Gareas." I murmured into the dark room. I received no answer other than an echo of my own words. Something was up…I could sense Gareas…Wait! Was he moving?!…Hmm… I sighed, and rolled over facing the hyper pilot, who wasn't in bed, but was close to mine.
"Do you need something Garu?"
As if it would help hide him, he stopped moving. One was leg was up and it was a little funny. No, it would have been very funny, if it wasn't almost eleven and I wasn't getting up at four thirty. I shook my head, ruffling my blonde locks against the pillow.
"I can see you clearly Garu, standing still doesn't help. So, please, go back to bed? We both need our rest." I said, silently, begging my roommate to go to sleep. He has a lot of energy, and he uses it to be loud, rude, and emotional. I absentmindedly wondered how such an attractive young teen have so much energy and use so much energy and still have this much energy.
A faint sigh, interrupted my…thoughts of Gareas. I think he finally decided to give up, and I smiled sheepishly as he retreated to his bed.
"Nite Ern." Gareas whispered, I could hear hurt in his voice. False hurt that is.
He was still playing around.
"Good night Gareas." I felt like I should say more, but I'm not very good with words. Actions speak better than words…But I'm too shy, I admit. I tend to get nervous around people, because I know people do judge you by how you look, speak, what you wear, and even by your EX.
Then again, shyness can sometimes be man's worst enemy.
I didn't know what to think of Gareas. I didn't sense any real hurt in him, but his tone didn't sound right. I can't help but wonder if I really did hurt him. But I don't believe I said anything harshly, but some people interpret things wrongly.
"Gareas, I'm sorry, if I hurt you." I finally said, knowing I was going to either have to say it or blame myself for hurting Gareas. I heard a few ruffled noises, and a yawn. Did I wake him?
"Huh? What'ya apologizing for, Ernest?" I remember smiling at his speech, and thinking he sounded just too cute when he was sleepy. Back on track, Ernest. "Oh… I was apologizing for earlier. I'm sorry." Now that surprised him, he took quite a few long moments for his sleepy mind to grasp the concept.
"No! I wasn't mad at you or hurt…or hell, anything! It was a joke! If I was mad or upset with you, Ernest, you'd know it. I'm not one to stay quiet about those things! Besides, we're friends.
If I hurt you or make you mad at me, tell me, so we can work something out! Alright, Ernest?!?"
I, timidly, smiled at him through the darkness answering him with a quiet, "Yes".
The little misunderstanding out of the way, we said our last, and our final good nights. At long last, I could sleep. I would have to think more about what happen later, because the moment my eyes closed, I was gone.
To Be Continued…