Omega Porunga: Seeing more of the girls and more of school life makes for a solid chapter as always. I'm hoping you update soon to see Relon's interactions with them and whoever else is next. On another note, best birthday wishes (ironically) to one Mari Ohara and belated wishes to Nozomi Tojo!

It's one thing to just note it down but taking the time to flesh their characters out really makes a world of difference! Updates have been meh. Life, school, focusing on my Legend of Heroes (almost at the break point before I come back to this full time). Busy, busy, busy. The irony is amazing lol. I kept seeing birthdays of my favorite girls go one after another and I was just so busy with personal stuff to get a chapter out like "come on, life! I gotta write about my girls and Relon himself!

A/N: "So I'm thinking a few thousand words, maybe about 5k at most." Pfft, good job past me. Not at all listening to yourself and writing practically an 8k chapter. Enjoy~.


Chapter 15: The First of Many

Day 23 (Wednesday - April 8th)

"Ohara?" Relon repeats. "As in the hotels?" He asks.

"The very same." Kanan nods.

"Huh, another family that's loaded like mine; cool." He says resting his hands in his pocket.

"Correctamundo." She says in an English accent.

"Whoa, and you speak English as well?" He responds with the same accent.

"Mari and Dia have been childhood friends of mine for as long as I can remember."

"That explains why you were so nonchalant about classes being online." You realizes for the girl to nod affirmatively. "Wait, don't go noting of other people's finances so casually!"

"What's wrong with that? It's not like I have some bloated ego like other kids our age." He deadpans.

"That's…! I didn't mean it…! Ugh, nevermind." You sighs.

"Believe it or not, our parents are quite close." Mari speaks up once more. "Your mother actually tended to all of us at some point in our lives."

"Huh. Small world."

"Not like Numazu is crazy huge or anything." Kanan chimes in.

"But it isn't as small as many believe either." Dia adds.

"Not too small to get bored but rather plenty to do. Just how I like it." Relon smiles.

"I second that." You agrees with a smile of her own.

"Um…" Hearing the sound of a mumble, all turn to the lone girl behind them. "W-What's going to happen to… them?" She meekly asks pointing to the other students.

"Hmm. Good question." Mari hums aloud gaining their attention. "Let's head back to the school for now, shall we?"

The trip back became relatively quiet. Hearing the perturbed voice of Hanamaru brought Relon back to the cause for them all being there. Seeming to have the same reaction, You as well went quiet. So too did the first year herself. Looking ahead to the third years speaking amongst themselves, he could tell that they were close. Possibly because of school but maybe they were like what You was; childhood friends. Considering the light banter they were making every now and then. He and You had already met Kanan but the other two definitely held the same respectable air around them. Dia Kurosawa and Mari Ohara. The president and chairwoman of their school. In other words, the two most powerful people of said school.

It made Relon question if Kanan had a secret status as her friend she had yet to mention or if it was something altogether. Regardless, it wasn't his place to pry. Though he had to count himself lucky for not being in trouble. Sure he did the right thing but he went about it in the wrong way and it didn't take a genius to tell that the others all knew it too. He, a brand new transfer student, went out to defend a friend instead of getting a teacher or the nearest authority figure. All because he knew what was coming and didn't want it to become a reality.

Don't get him wrong. Without a shadow of a doubt, he didn't regret it. He got to protect Hanamaru, put those annoying-ass freshmen in their place, and kick some ass all at once. He was quite satisfied with himself but there were a few cons that came alongside said pros. For starters; You. She wasn't showing it now but he knew she was going to get on him for such foolishness. He was brash. Clear and cut. He went on emotions without much sense of logic. Something he's been raised to not do. Something he… hasn't done in a long time. Then there was Hanamaru. What would she do? What would she say to him? Not to mention his mom. Would she be proud of him for defending Hanamaru or upset at him getting into such a dangerous situation? He wanted to say the former knowing her but he's rarely ever been in fights to such a degree when he lived in Japan. Although, if this were America…

Dismissing the thought, he looks to his right at Hanamaru with You on the girl's other side. Glancing behind them, the police surrounding the troublemakers themselves a short distance away. Just looking at them made his blood boil. They had no right to do such a thing. He wanted to be mad at them but a part of himself wanted to berate Hanamaru for her selflessness. It was commendable but unneeded. In the end…

Uranohoshi High School

"It's her call to make..." He murmurs.

"What was that, Relon?"

"Nothing. Just thinking again." He dismisses rubbing at his wrists.

"You talk to yourself often?" Kanan muses.

"Only when I have a lot to think about." He responds dryly, noting of the slight flinch from Hanamaru.

In the chairwoman's office, which looks just like any other office for someone with high status, Relon, Hanamaru, and You look at Mari seated at her desk with Dia and Kanan at her sides.

"I see…" Mari smiles as they all look at Hanamaru. "Indeed it is, Lucinance-san. It is her call to make."

Furrowing for a moment, Dia glances to Mari who remains locked on the nervous girl.

"Mari, you're…?" A nod comes in response as Dia returns to Hanamaru.

"That's a very Mari thing to do." Kanan chuckles.

"Um, am I missing something?" You blinks, her focus shifting between Relon's awaiting posture and the three's.

"Hanamaru Kunikida." Mari speaks up regaining their attention as said girl stands at attention. "What do you believe to be the right decision?" Widening, You remains quiet.

"I-I'm sorry. I… don't understand zura."

"It's quite simple, Kunikida-san." Dia responds. "The chairwoman is having you decide the fates of those students." At her response, Hanamaru's own eyes grow ever bigger.

"She's… making me decide?"

"Makes sense." All look to Relon. "Those girls… What they've done, what they would have done, everything that could have transpired in the near distant future. All of this is being judged by you, Kunikida-san. The sole victim at its epicenter. As the one who has suffered the most, you're now given an opportunity to make a call."

"Correctamundo." Mari smiles in her English accent refocusing on Hanamaru. "Though I have to wonder, can you muster an answer at this moment?"

"I-I… What I want is… is…" Falling silent, her mustered form weakens as her eyes drift to the floor. "I can't…"

"That's understandable." Mari hums interlocking her own fingers. "Then we'll do this. Sadly, I do not like the idea of forcing an answer out and given the mental toll you all have been through, I'll allow you an hour to think. Does this sound reasonable?"

Hanamaru can only comply with a nod.

"Give your decision some thought." Dia advises. "Most of our staff have gone home including the nurse but the office should still be open." She remarks looking towards Relon.

"Thanks, ma'am. I'll take you up on that offer."

"Welp." Kanan speaks leaning against the wall. "See you guys in an hour."

Bowing, the three leave. Walking down the hall in silence, it isn't long before they reach the nurse's office.

"You coming with Kunikida-san or…?" Remaining focused down the hall, she turns to face the two shaking her head.

"... No. I'm sorry, but I think some time alone will help, zura."

"It's fine. We'll check on you later, 'kay?" Relon reassures, a kind smile evident on his demeanor.

Returning a weak smile of her own, she bows before continuing down the hall.

"She's shaken up."

"Anyone would be."

Heading inside, he takes notice of the medium-sized office. Several beds with curtains latched to the ceiling, the nurses desk occupying a corner of the room, another door leading to a room containing more supplies, and the windows giving a clear view of the school grounds from the second story.

"Go ahead and take a seat. I'll gather some alcohol and wipes."

"You don't-" Cut off by the stern expression, he submits to the confines of a bed.

Watching You move around seeking the desired supplies, the stinging itch from his wrist gains his attention. Gently easing the bothersome irritation with a rub, his eyes lift for eyes to lock onto You. Said girl reaching for a bottle of visible alcohol on a shelf. His eyes trailing towards her rear revealing more of her thighs with every struggle. Whipping back down to his hands, he musters the strength to suppress his rising blush.

"Got it." She sounds, his eyes hesitantly looking to her with a satisfied smile as she walks his way while unscrewing the top.

"Thanks." Relon reaches for her to pull the items away. "What are you-"

"I'm going to do it." Her smile returning to her stern demeanor.

"... Yes, ma'am."

Shifting his body to face You who takes a seat, he silently holds out his hands. Inspecting the minor injuries, her eyes lift to his. Acknowledging the closeness, she presses a finger against his wrists fishing for a reaction. Noting the subtle movement of his jaw, she pressed harder for a twitch to escape.

"Okay, that hurts a little." He sighs, giving in as she relents.

"You don't have to act tough in front of me." She mutters dabbing a ball of cotton in th alcohol.

"What? Quoting Rin from Naruto in a situ- ouch!" He hisses looking to the glaring girl.

Obviously, she wasn't in the mood for his nonchalant attitude so he would choose the smart option and respond with one that fits the situation.

"Sorry." He murmurs as she begins tending to him.

"You should be. I know you enough to see through that tough act. Running out without any warning? Do you have any idea how worried I was?" Noting of her form tremble slightly, his eyes open more as her hands pause. "Of course, I know you're not one to sit by and wait." She continues with a sniffle. "Saving people is something you're famous for. Afterall, you saved me back then..."

Six Years Ago

"Young lady, this is your last warning!" The female officer warns.

"You-chan, let go!" Miguel hisses.

"No!"

"Darn it! It's now or never!"

One officer refusing to let go of You. Two more approaching him and Miguel, handcuffs on full display. Neither side willing to back down. Unable to think of anything to say, much less do, his body felt weak in that moment. He was raised to obey the law and in the end, they would be okay as kids… right?

One look at the teary-eyed You made all reason vanish in that moment. A surge of emotions, like a geyser, shot out. The need to protect wrapped around his mind. Pushing one officer so fast the man is knocked over, he bolts in between You and the female officer breaking their hold as the latter is sent to the ground. He had no time to question the sudden actions, he only knew he needed to protect You. There was only one word he could muster.

"Run!"

Acknowledging the words spoken by his best friend, Miguel dashes knocks the other stunned officer rushing forward as Relon grabs You's hand. Without hesitation, the three take off.

"After them!" The female shouts from behind.

"What's the plan?!" Miguel exclaims, Relon unable to give him an answer as his eyes shift from Miguel's to You's before forward.

"Run! Faster than you've ever had before!"

You… Miguel… We're getting out of this in one piece!

Present

"We ended up running so many laps around the neighborhood that we had to hide in some of our neighbor's yards." She chirps in amusement at the memory.

"Hopefully we won't have to experience something like that again anytime soon…"

"Considering what we're doing, things may get chaotic down the line." She quips, finishing bandaging his wrists.

"Yeah…"

"Relon." Her voice was gentle yet he could hear the slightest hint of urgency behind her call.

Looking up, he meets her the wariness in her sapphire eyes.

"Please, don't go off on your own like that." Her voice lowers to a whisper as she rests her forehead on his, her fingers curling around his own. "I know that's how you are but, please, let me help too. We're a team, aren't we?"

Oh, how he knew what she said to be true. So very true. And yet…

"You're right." He murmurs, rotating so their fingers interlock. "We are a team."

"Then-"

"But even still, I don't want to see those dear to me get dragged down because of my actions." He continues with a wry smile, You's voice hitching from his words. "We are a team, but I don't want to endanger someone as precious as you if I can't help it." He lowers their hands to their laps.

"... Ha. I figured you'd say something like that. So why don't you just say no?" She lifts to meet his vermilion eyes.

Still faced, a breath escapes him as the corners of his lips curve.

"Because I know only a few people equally as stubborn if not more so than myself." He falls back onto the bed looking at the dimly lit ceiling. "I'm not invincible. I'm no superhero nor some type of man capable of fixing every problem presented to ourselves. I can only do so much on my own."

Allowing another breath to escape from the hard reality, his vision takes sight of You crawling to lay next to him.

"You're not wrong. But you're not right either." She chuckles clasping his hand with hers.

"What do you mean?"

"Relon, you're right that you don't have powers or are some superhuman but you are Relon Tarbin Lucinance. Your mom is the head doctor of the city not to mention you have Miguel. Two people with insane abilities and connections. Not to mention, to be blunt, you're pretty loaded money-wise." She chuckles. "You yourself are able to fend off thug after thug. All in order to protect Kunikida-chan. There are times when we're together that I'm reminded of you as my childhood friend. Now there are times where I come to realize just how grown up you are now. The way you express yourself through situations we find ourselves in, it's almost mesmerizing how much impact that stuff has on you and to an extent the rest of us. Right now, you need to use that part of you to help out Kunikida-chan just as you did before."

There were no words that could be said. None to be thought upon. He was at a loss. Yet, he knew there was nothing that needed to be said. Both knew that but they also knew that there was something that needed to be done. Sitting up, You follows suit.

"Thank you, You." He smiles reinvigorated with a new goal as he jumps to his feet before stopping at the door. "I owe you one. Again." Rushing out, the sound of pattering footsteps lessen.

"Silly." She gives another chuckle rolling over and touching the space he once was in. "You don't owe me anything. After all…"

Rushing flight after flight of stairs, the orange tint radiating through the windows grabs his attention. Opening it, he comes to a stop taking in the sight of the freshman looking out over the horizon.

"Just as you saved Kunikida-chan, you saved me too…"

Hearing the sound of the door, the first year turns to Relon's head rising from the ground embedded stairs in mild surprise.

"Senpai…"

"Kunikida-san…"

"The way you express yourself through situations we find ourselves in, it's almost mesmerizing how much impact that stuff has on you and to an extent the rest of us."

Remembering that, he steps forward to stop next to the brunette overseeing the school grounds.

"How goes it?" His focus remaining on the scenery as Hanamaru's own lowers to return to doing the same.

"No matter how much I think about what to do, I can't help thinking of what will happen to them, zura."

"I see."

"You probably think it's-"

"It's kind." He cuts her off, Hanamaru widening to shift meeting his kind smile. "That mentality you have. You're always looking out for others whether they've wronged you or not. I was completely at a loss for words before earlier happened. I had figured you were just too kind but I realized I was wrong. For that, I'm sorry." He gives a curt bow.

"P-Please, raise your head, zura! You have nothing to be sorry for!"

"Yeah I do." He chuckles looking back to the view. "Today helped me see it. Just how far that kindness of yours stretched out. I knew you were kind when you told me your past with those girls but I think it finally hit under that bridge. Just how deeply rooted that kind personality of yours is."

"Lucinance-senpai…"

"Kunikida-san, their education future rests on your hands. Literally speaking. It's frightening knowing this. I think Chairwoman Ohara knows this and that's why she gave you this heavy burden. To understand the weight that this brings not just now but in the future as well as the past."

"Either I accept what they've done and move on or I become their judge denying them of their future…"

A small nod in agreement comes.

"Your call, Kunikida-san. No one will blame you for either choice."

Turning to leave, he begins heading down the staircase.

"Senpai!" Pausing, he looks over his shoulder at the troubled demeanor across her face.

Contorting it to a smile of sort, she bows.

"Thank you, zura." Smiling himself, he continues on.

"You got about 20 or so minutes, don't rush your answer."

Closing the door, he descends in the direction of the third years. Taking his leisure stroll, he glances to the soccer field. The track field not far from it. A phantom pain emerging from his back to shudder. Dismissing the quiet thought, he eventually reaches the office to knock.

"Come in." The voice of Dia sounds and in doing so, he's offered three smiling faces.

"Welcome back." Kanan greets.

"We still have around half an hour before we reconvene. Is there something you need, Lucinance-san?" Dia inquires.

"Yes, ma'am." He nods looking to Mari at her front desk. "This is moreso a hunch than a guess but still a guess regardless but did you already have knowledge on Kunikida-san's troubles with those girls, Chairwoman?" Furrowing their brows for a sliver of a moment, both Kanan and Dia look to Mari.

"What led you to come to such a conclusion?" She leans forward, elbows pressed against her desk.

"Just a thought. Suddenly offering her such a hard decision as this. It's odd considering you just started as Chairwoman is all. Appearing at the end of school right when all of this went down, it feels more planned than pure coincidence or luck."

Smirking, Mari lifts her head.

"Correctamundo." She says in her English accent. "As Chairwoman, it is my duty to know all of Uranohoshi's students. Their backgrounds, skills, ideas for the future. That includes the more darker themes some may have. Though many do not have such, a few have 'reported' such things."

"So I was right…" He murmurs noting of Mari rise to her feet to walk around the desk before leaning against it. "I can't help but feel there's something more to the picture. Something I can't see yet."

"I want all students at my family's school to be unburdened by such things. An atmosphere free of outside worry. A learning environment that many will wish to come back to and look back on upon graduation. To uphold such, I plan to deal with any issues with haste in a proper manner that will help both the student as well as myself to understand that individual. That is my goal as Chairwoman. Nothing more. Nothing less. I assure you."

"Hmm. Okay." He nods, turning to open the door. "I look forward to hearing the other details you didn't mention." He gives a curt bow before departing.

Blinking, the two can only look baffled at the comment he left. A burst of giggles sounding from Mari snaps then from their stupor. The girl holding her seemingly aching stomach as she wipes a tear from her eye.

"Ahh… Relon Lucinance. You truly are an interesting one."

Meeting

Time passed. Enough to wrap one's thoughts around today? For some, maybe. For others, not enough. But time couldn't be extended. Mari gave an hour and it was now up. All that was left was for the moment of truth to occur.

Having shifted locations to a board room, Relon looks around at the locations of everyone. You and himself are standing behind Hanamaru seated on one side of the long table. Across from her, the five girls. Both sides awkwardly avoiding eye contact. At the head of the table, Mari with Dia and Kanan seated next to her on the side. Some of the earlier officers standing behind the troublemakers with the others with the males in another room supposedly.

"Let's get right to the point so we can go about our day, shall we?" Dia speaks up. "You five have repeatedly abused Hanamaru Kunikida since grade school for your own selfish principles. " Her tone not hiding the harshness and authoritative power as each word makes both sides quiver under her might. "If I had the power, I would force expulsion upon you five and if times were as they were in the past, I'd push for banishment from this very city for such cruelty!" She glares, the trembling forms of the five bringing an odd satisfaction to Relon though he doesn't show it. "Sadly, I cannot. Instead of I as your judge, that position falls on the given victim herself."

Note to self, never piss off the President. He thinks, batting her an eye and then Kanan. The fellow runner raising her eyebrows for a moment as if to say, "yeah, I know."

Finally, their eyes shift to meet the crestfallen face of said victim.

"Hanamaru Kunikida. What is your answer?"

As if he was just told the worst news known to man, his heart drops. The same thing seems to happen as You instinctively, albeit subtly, reaching to hold his hand. Her slight quiver going noticed by him. Giving a firm squeeze, his touch of reassurance seems to work.

Looking up, Hanamaru's golden orbs meet the familiar five's. She doesn't speak. Simply looking on. If looks could kill, then hers combined with the unending nerves would be a deadly combination.

"Expulsion."

As soon as the word leaves her mouth, all focus harder on her. The five across from her widening as some begin to tear up.

"That would be all it would take to rob you five of your future." She continues, a moment passing as her words are processed for a smile to graze Relon's features. "Years of hurt, torment, agony, and even despair, zura. You five brought this all upon me all because of a simple mistake. Like a bee attracted to honey, you sought me as a target of repetition and attacked relentlessly." She rises to her feet, her hands properly in front of her. "But none of this would have happened had I not allowed the mention of your families to slip and yet… I'm not sorry, zura!" Her strong proclamation seems to denounce any ill intent or other emotion as the five can only stare baffled. "Ever since you began to pick on me, I always croaked out apology after apology. Every pummel, every beating, every insult you five spat felt as though every single one equaled a hundred sorrys. Even now, you say nothing in the face of your wrongdoings, zura." A kind smile creeps onto her face before she bows before them. "Thank you."

"... Huh?"

Lifting up, her smile shines like a star.

"Are you sure about this?" Dia questions.

"Yes, zura." Hanamaru responds by bowing before the third years. "Please excuse their previous actions."

Looking to the first year for true confirmation, Mari relents.

"Very well. This meeting is adjourned. Ladies, some simple time in detention shall do it along with your boyfriends. Men, if you will."

Getting to their feet, the stunned girls begin to be led out.

"Wait!" All look to the sole leader of the five. "Hanama- Kunikida-san, why? Why spare us? After everything we've done? After what we, what I, was going to do to you?"

Turning fully to face her, a momentary thought graces Hanamaru's features before her smile returns.

"If it weren't for you five, I never would have become who I am. I may have never met Senpai." She blushes looking to a smiling Relon and You. For a time I felt as though this was my atonement for such a mistake but not anymore, zura. Because of today, things are different now. I am different now. So that's why. Also, I hope everything with your families truly get better." Once again, she bows out of respect.

As if a weight seeming lifted off their shoulders, the girls are led out without a struggle.

"Good job, Kunikida-san." Relon pats the girl who giggles leaning in to the affection.

"I guess all's well that ends well." You surmises.

"Seems like it." Kanan rests her arms behind her head.

"With that out of the way, we should get going. I seriously don't want to deal with Mom considering we never texted her we'd be late." Paling at his words, You can only laugh nervously.

"Ahaha… Y-You have a point."

"With everything happening so suddenly, I hadn't even notified my parents!" Hanamaru gasps looking at her phone.

"Then I suggest you three get a move on. Classes are still in session tomorrow." Dia smiles.

"Ugh, education." Relon groans.

"You know it's important." You pushes him towards the door with Hanamaru close behind.

"Thank you again for everything, senpais. Madam Chairwoman." The first year bows followed by the two.

"Don't mention it." Mari waves as they vanish from sight.

Walking into the hallway, the three watch through the glass windows at the three leaving the campus discussing whatever with smiles on their faces.

"He truly is an interesting one." Mari murmurs.

"Hopefully he won't be too much trouble." Dia sighs. "That nature of meddling in other people's affairs isn't safe. Even if he means well."

"Yet that's exactly what we did when we were younger." Kanan smirks for Dia to pout averting her gaze bashfully.

"Hehehe. It's thanks to you two and Lucinance's mother that my parents were able to open their eyes and give me that freedom I yearned for. I for one am looking forward to what he'll bring to Uranohoshi."

"He's got spirit and plenty of talent. Smart too." Kanan notes eyeing the departing teen.

"Oh? Could it be that he's grabbed your eye, Kanan-chan~?" Bucking wide, the swimmer snaps to the blonde who's stifling a smug grin. "H-HUH?! The heck are you talking about?!"

"Teehee. You've obviously taken a liking to him. Right, Dia?"

"Pfft. I suppose so."

"Even you, Dia?! Jeez, give me a break!" Groaning, Kanan looks out the glass just as Relon turns the corner. "Lucinance-san, you jerk…"

"Achoo! Where'd that come from?" He mumbles, the group luckily arriving at a bus stop right when the transport stops.

Taking a seat in the very back, all drop releasing tired breaths.

"Are you catching a cold?" You arches a brow.

"Ah, senpai, here zura!" Hanamaru exclaims taking off the blazer she's held since the fight.

"I'm good." He raises a hand stopping her. "You can hold onto it some more. I feel like someone was just talking about me." He wipes his nose.

"The Chairwoman and our senpais could be responsible, zura."

"Talking most likely about how troublesome Relon is going to be in the future." You grins earning a giggle from Hanamaru and an eye roll from the supposed troublemaker himself.

"Hardy har har. I'm taking a nap."

"I'm right there with you." You breathes out resting her head on his shoulder.

Feeling the slightest squirm from his left, he opens an eye to Hanamaru. Patting his shoulder, he offers it for the 1st year who seems to gleam with delight before resting as well.

Two beautiful girls resting on my shoulders… alone on a bus with no one to see. Mom and Miguel would never believe nor let me live this down. Momentarily feeling both girls wrap themselves around his arms, he relents looking to the ceiling of the bus. Sleep, take me already. I don't know how long my body will last…

Day 24 (Thursday - April 9th)

"How are your wrists?" You asks, the two can be seen waiting at the bottom of the trail leading up to the shrine.

"Almost as good as new. A little sore but nothing to worry about."

"I'm sorry for the wait, zura!" Both look up to the approaching Hanamaru descending down towards them, the subtle sight of her legs becoming more and more potent to his hormones as he averts his gaze. "I hope I didn't make you wait long."

"Nope. Just got here." You smiles.

"You're not wearing your cardigan." Relon notes.

True to his words, her common yellow cardigan is nowhere to be seen instead showing the normal Uranohoshi sailor top with her yellow scarf indicating her 1st year.

"Does it… look weird, zura?"

"Kunikida-san, you look great with or without it. As long as you're happy with your appearance, that's all that matters." He reaffirms resting a hand on his hip for a slight blush to form on her cheeks.

"Watch out, Kunikida-chan, he's being unconsciously honest again." You jokes earning a deadpanned look from the lone male. "But he's right. You'll always be cute no matter what."

" Rel-oniichan, Watanabe-san, t-thank you zura."

"Any- Huh?" You blinks as Relon tilts his head. "Where'd that come from?" You asks looking between the two.

"In the HP series, the author focuses on the relationship between the main character and his sisters. We were making comparisons between each other and…" She looks down fiddling with her fingers.

"Not gonna lie, I like the sound of it. My name is a play on the word itself. Clever, sis." He compliments giving her a head pat which makes her smile return.

"Hey! Don't spoil our sister!" You twitches an eye.

"I became her brother before you so I don't wanna hear it."

"Hanamaru." Both look to said girl. "You can call me by my first name, zura."

"Are you sure?" You asks to get a firm nod.

"After yesterday, I feel both closer and safer with you two." She says redirecting her gaze to Relon. "Besides, Rel-oniichan already called me by my first name."

"I did? When was-" Stopping as the run leading up to the fight comes to mind, he awkwardly chuckles. "S-Sorry about that. I got so caught up in the moment."

"Don't be! It was super cool, zura!"

"Well it won't be cool if we're late so let's get going!" You chuckles, the three departing.

You taking her rightful place at his right and Hanamaru on his left. Both with their arms fondly wrapped around his as they chatter amongst themselves.

Ahh, school life is looking better and better if this keeps up. A fond smile gracing his face as he looks to the sunny sky. His mind taking in the sensation of their touch.

Uranohoshi High School

"Time for another day of school." He sighs, the three now reaching the school grounds.

"You know it's important." You chides. "Oh, Hanamaru-chan, I'll come by during study hall since we haven't hung out yet."

"I'll drag you there if the others protest." Relon grins for You to wave him off.

"I've never been that much of a reader so I hope you'll help me out."

"Leave it to me, zura! I'm sure there's a book that you'll like!"

"U-Um. E-E-Excuse me." Stopping at the sound of a meek voice from behind, the three turn to face to find two faces. One familiar and another new.

"President?" Relon blinks. "Um, good morning." He gives a curt bow as do the other two. "You're just now arriving at the school?"

"Normally, I would be here before even some of the faculty but my sister's first day starts as of today so I decided to walk with her before I return to my duties.

"Your sister?" You wonders, all turning to look around before spotting a slightly smaller girl in stature with red hair hiding behind Dia.

"Come on, Ruby. Greet them properly." Dia gestures kindly as the girl slowly reveals herself.

She's a short girl around Hanamaru's height. With a slim figure and medium-length hair styled into two twintails, she has turquoise eyes.

"H-H-Hello. M-My n-n-name i-is…" She stutters, her eyes lifting to Relon before her face begins to grows one shade of red darker than the last.

"Um, are you okay?" Raising a hand in worry.

"Wait, don't!"

"Huh?"

Seeing his hand, Ruby's eyes buck wide as her knees buckle inwards.

"PIGIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII!"

Recoiling from the sudden high-pitched scream, Relon quickly covers his ears as do the others for what seems like a solid ten seconds.

"Jeez, what was that about?!" He blinks in a daze at Dia who seems unaffected by the noise as she caresses Ruby.

"There, there, it's okay." She hums.

"I'm sorry, everyone…" She mumbles through Dia's clothes.

"I-It's no biggie. Strong voice you have there…"

"Ruby." She answers stepping away from Dia. "I'm Ruby Kurosawa. Dia's younger sister. It's nice to meet you all." She says focusing on the girls to look to Relon before averting her gaze.

"Kurosawa-san." Hanamaru walks forward. "I'm Hanamaru Kunikida. I'm in 1-A. What about you?"

"I-I'm also in 1-A."

"Then we'll be classmates! I hope we can get along, zura!"

"S-Same. Huh? Zura?" She blinks, Relon widening as he's about to say something for Hanamaru to beat him to the punch.

"A verbal tic of mine, zura. It's what makes me feel unique." She smiles glancing to Relon who smiles back.

"Zura…" Ruby mumbles gaining their attention. "Wait…" She adds, her eyes seeming to transition into realization. "You're the one they kept picking on." Her words causing everyone to widen to equal proportions. "I'm so sorry!" She bows.

"Ruby, what are-" Dia begins to notice the 1st year's trembling form.

"Back then… on that day…" Her voice continues between a croak and hoarse tone. "When they began to pick on you, you asked for help and our eyes met but I… I…"

Finally understanding the meaning of her words, Hanamaru's eyes soften as she bends down catching Ruby's teary eyes.

"It's okay, zura." Rising back up, Ruby follows confused. "The past is a place to learn from, not live in. We've both done enough of that. Wouldn't you agree?" She extends a hand.

For a moment, Ruby looks lost as if trying to understand what sort of experience led Hanamaru to say such a thing. Holding back her tears, Ruby accepts forcing out a silent nod.

"Any idea what's happening?"

"I have a rough idea." He answers, a sakura petal descending to catch his attention. "Huh?" Hearing more rustling, his eyes widen as a girl falls off a branch overhead. "Watch out!" He exclaims kicking off the ground in time to catch her as the momentum sends him sliding against the ground.

"Oh my God, Relon ae you okay?!"

"Y-Yeah! Aside from my wrists stinging, all good here." He winces looking to the random girl in his arms. "What about you? You good? Considering you fell from the tree and all."

"Ouch…" The mysterious girl winces to peer her eyelids open taking in the group around her followed by the male holding her.

Eyes scanning frantically from one person to another, they spin around and around to stop before focusing on the ground.

"Hehehe…"

"Did you just save a crazy person?" You wonders aloud.

"Is this… Earth?" She asks jumping to her feet looking around.

"Alright, saved a crazy one. Okay then." She answers as Relon gets to his feet. "President, I thinks she may have hit her head… somehow."

"Hmm…" Dia crosses her arms in thought.

"We come in peace." Relon answers.

"I see…" She answers ignoring her bag falling atop her head. "Then that means you lot are despicable, wretched humans."

"Hey, sorry to interrupt your chuunibyou moment but are you alright?" Relon waves to get her attention.

"Of course it is! This vessel of mine is- wait. What did you-"

"I roleplay in my spare time when I read and watch anime. It's fun. That includes the whole persona thing." He explains doing a edgy pose of his own. "See?"

Blinking as if deciding how to go about her next actions, Relon takes in the pondering girl before him. Like Hanamaru and Ruby, the girl has a slim figure. Her navy blue hair is styled into a high bun on the right side of her head and she has pink eyes.

"Yoshiko Tsushima I believe was your name." Hanamaru notes. "You're also in our homeroom class, zura."

"The name… is Yohane! The fallen angel!" Her voice deepens once more.

"Oh, really? Then play a quick game of rock-paper-scissors." Hanamaru smiles. "Ready?"

"Wait a sec!"

"Rock, paper, scissors! Shoot!" Hanamaru throws out rock while the now confirmed Yoshiko throws… scissors?

"The way you do scissors! That's definitely you." She smiles as Yoshiko twitches at the trap she's fallen into.

"No it's not!" She denies, her voice going right back up to its likely normal pitch. "I'm Yohane! Yo-ha-ne!" She exclaims running off.

"That was…"

"Interesting." Relon blinks. "How did you know her, Hanamaru?"

"We went to the same grade school together. She'd always make scissors in an odd way so it was easy to tell." She smiles.

Note to self, Hanamaru can be very clever.

Shrugging off that odd occurrence, his eyes go to a deadpanning You.

"What?"

"It's easy to switch from san to a first name basis with her but with me you make it super difficult."

Scrunching his eyes as the words process, he looks at her for a moment before waving his hands.

"Nope. Not even gonna entertain this. I refuse. Class is starting soon." He shakes his head, You looking on to stifle her laughter as they depart.

Bidding farewell to Hanamaru and Ruby, the three continue down the second hall stopping at the staircase.

"President Kurosawa, your name wouldn't be the popular Kurosawas that specialize in fishing and a number of other occupations in Numazu and around Japan would it?"

"Correct. My family is follows a rather old tradition of work. It wasn't until after Ruby was born that things began to calm down. Though some rules remained. Such as keeping Ruby as close as possible. Meaning rarely ever did she interact with others her age much less males."

"That explains her outburst then." He notes for a nod to come.

"Yes. Ruby behind a sheltered girl is rather shy and aside from some males in our family, she doesn't exactly know how to interact around others of the opposite gender.

"Considering she found closure with Hanamaru, I say that's a better start at interaction than anything." He reassures.

"Yes. You are right. Both of you, please, be gentle with her. She has a kind heart and means well."

"Don't worry. Our time here will be awesome all around." He smiles.

"That's right!"

Taking in their words, she nods departing up the stairs as the two soon enter their class falling into their seats.

You, Chika, Riko, Hanamaru, Kanan, Dia, Mari, Ruby, Yoshiko. Aside from You, that's eight girls he's directly interacted with outside of class. Each bringing something unique to the table. This year was definitely gonna be a busy one. That's for sure. In a school with ration of females to males being 5:1, he was certainly meeting some interesting individuals. Chika, Riko, Kanan, and now Hanamaru.

Feels like Hanamaru will be the first of many people I'm gonna get along with. Or the first of many instances that trouble will spur…

"Hey, you finally made it! The bell is about to ring!" Chika says.

"Um. Is something wrong with you two?"

"Tired." Both state.

"Mentally or physically?"

"Both." The childhood friends answer again in unison.

"How was yesterday after school?" Chika offers a change at the subject.

"Busy."

"Oh? Then what about this morning?" Riko suggests.

"Busy."

"By the end of the year, I feels that's all it's gonna be. Busy, busy, busy."

With a tired sigh, Relon buries his face. The sound of the school bell causing him great dismay.

"UGGGGGHHHH!"


Preview!

Zura! Hanamaru present and accounted for! To think the day would come where I would be able to feel such freedom… Rel-oniichan, thank you! Zura? You and Watanabe-san want to hang out and go get something to eat? Zuraaaaaaaa! Wait, what did you ask me? What are my thoughts on… idols? Well… you'll have to find out what happens next on Love Live! Revolution! Chapter 16: Hanging Out amongst Friends! Another plate please, zura!


A/N: It's been a while (may be once more with college being a pain and my focus being on my Legend of Heroes story as I'm collaborating with a fellow writer) so lets get a quick up-to-date summary.

Nijisaki and Superstar has finished. Both had me bawling. And now we recently got a teaser at six NEW idols. Joy. More to add to the list of girls. We were at, what, 50-ish counting the rivals? Phew. Waifus literally everywhere.

Because of the Idol Law, much of the canon changes even though this is an AU (even though I am attempting to retain some amount of continuity). For example, Kanan's dispute with Mari. No experience as idols equals no reason to have a dispute. Hanamaru being bullied for her smarts, verbal tic, and other reasons causes her and the likes of Ruby and Yoshiko to never become acquainted as she was the point of interest for the other girls keeping Ruby away. Hanamaru instead remembers Yoshiko not as a friend but rather simply a classmate. Keep this in mind in regards to the other female casts.

On another note, we FINALLY GOT INTERACTIONS FROM ALL OF AQOURS! Check that off the bucket list. Now to tend to Sarah and Leah (and possibly Tsuki at some point. I have ideas but nothing planned). Sadly, the sisters aren't planned to show up until chapter 148 in my notes but it could be sooner, it could be further out. Only time will tell.

So completely disregarding what I started at the beginning of the story, the main girls that I've planned out (as noted by the story's cover art) are You, Hanamaru, Kanan, and Sarah from Sunshine. Honoka, Nico, Maki, and Eli from Idol Project. And finally Setsuna/Nana, Rina, Karin, and Shioriko from Nijisaki. Obviously, there are no Superstar since the show premiered after I was 200+ chapters (on 278 rn) into writing the story in my journals. It was originally 9 girls but with Shio, Lanzhu, and Mia added I decided to up the count. I don't want to again cause 12 is VERY convenient for me and the more importantly the story. They likely won't be the main idols like You and Hanamaru but they'll have their moments to shine like the others have thus far.

In other news, Relon's harem slowly grows hehehe. Hanamaru is now girl #2 with hints at Kanan already in the works. Good job Mari, good job Dia XD.

Again, if you enjoyed, tell me your thoughts with a review. Always happy to get any and all feedback.