Chapter 26: Indigo-Gos and Lulu
After the recent encounter with the Happy Mask Salesman, and the truth of the birth had finally been explained, the Zoran Brothers felt much better. It felt as if the heavy rock within their mind was lifted. It felt as if the dark, gloomy shadow of conundrum was cleared. Though they were still somewhat worried about the Mask, yet, they felt blissful nonetheless.
The ambiance around Japas was atypical the next morning when students went back into the cold water for school. People stared at his newly developed weapon - his arm blades. Those that he knew questioned about the sudden change of his appearance, but they were rewarded only a sly smile from the Zora. The blades were not as long as before, for Mikau had spent nearly the entire night teaching his brother how to master the technique of controlling the nerve muscles in his arms. The new fins awed the teachers as well. They were staring at their student the whole time while they were teaching the class. Suddenly, Japas was the center of the attention and he loved every second of it.
At lunchtime, Mikau and Japas sat with Evan, Lulu, and Tijo. The lunch area was located at another dorm outside the water, which consisted of four major levels. The first level was spread out with a special type of grass called 'Sofiees'. When people pronounced it, it sounded as if the floor was 'soft', hence the name. The dark green plants were firmly rooted into the ground. They were short and lofty, though they do grow over a certain amount of time, which then had to be trimmed to an appropriate level. As same as any other cafeterias in other schools, tables and chairs that were actually boulders in reality were dragged from the bottom of the ocean and placed neatly in rows on the lenient carpet. The first floor was mostly designed for the Bottom-feeders. Those Zoras were slow at maneuvering around the place, and they were typically lazy. So, the designers had decided to build a deck such as this. Bottom-feeders could even lie on the ground and take a short nap if they wanted to.
The second floor was predominantly dark. Though the first level had windows around the place, the second deck was sealed shut. It was specially designed for Zoras that were used to the obscure areas. Their inferred visions were not coped with the rays of sunlight, thus, made it quite painful when they were out of the water. In fact, the Zoras with those eyes for darkness had rooms that were badly lit. People called these types of Zoras: 'Night Swimmer'.
The third level was opened for all. It rested in the middle of the building, and therefore all normal Zoras were welcomed. There was nothing special to describe it. It was as ordinary as it could be. It was equal in balance.
The fourth one was where Mikau and his gang seated. With a large transparent dome at top of the roof, the warm rays of the sun were bathing this level. Brightly lit, yet few students came up to the upper deck. Not many of them liked to have the sun shining onto their skin for a long time. The moistures could be sapped up, and seriously dehydrating them. Though Mikau didn't like it as well, but he felt comfortable when the beams touched his naked body.
On the table, two spicy eel, and a few roasted clams were laid out. One Zora and one Zora only - Japas, had already consumed most of the food. While Tijo glared at the ill-mannered teenager, the rest of the group talked excitedly about the new plans for the Indigo-Gos Band.
A day ago, Mikau was reluctant to show his letter to everyone because he was too lazy to start another band; the Zoran Hero had stage fright. Along with the mail from his mom, a small booklet was attached. The Indigo- Gos brochure.
Within the letter, Lynisana described the first formation of the famous band. Everyone in the Zoran World had heard or had gone to see the performance of the musical group. A band that had made lots of money, and had fame rained on the members of the group like a waterfall. She was part of that band. At first, Mikau was surprised at the news. But as he continued reading on, he began to feel a sense of pride. He was proud of his mom. A famous singer. The center pole of all the supporting beams. The most important role. Yet the band had died many years ago due to an unfortunate accident on one of the members. Gangs caused by jealousy had murdered him.
Once Mikau showed the booklet to his friends, they began to chat eagerly. In fact, just before lunch, all five of them had proposed of bringing the band alive again.
"We've got the members, we have the instruments, and we've got the go- ahead from the Principal," Evan grinned as he leaned on the table with his right arm supporting his eel-like head. "We are hot and ready to go."
"Lulu will be doing the singing while we played out da music!" Japas said as he grabbed another seasoned fish. As he ate, he glanced at Tijo. "I hope that the dispute between both of us can stop for a while. This is big. Bigger than our different views that are pointing right at each other," he mumbled through a mouthful of food.
Tijo sighed as he relaxed the muscles on his back. His fan-like fins dropped down slowly. "I guess so. It is not fun to have an enemy to be an obstacle in your greatest achievement."
"Then let us have a truce, for now if you wish."
"Agreed."
Mikau smiled, as he was relieved that his friends were not going to have a fight anymore. "This is good to hear then, because if you two won't stop antagonizing each other, soon I'll have to settle both of you down by force."
Tijo gulped while Japas laughed.
"All right then. Shall we use the old name, or shall we use a new name?" Lulu asked softly as she gazed at Mikau.
"Uh, well..."
Evan grinned. "How about we just use the old name, Indigo-Gos? I think that name sounds nice. Besides, I think Mikau's mother would be proud hear her old band alive and runnin' again, wouldn't you agree?"
"Yeah," the Zoran Hero patted the eel Zora on the shoulder. "I want to use that name in the first place too. Thank you. You are considerate."
"Who will be our leader?" Japas inquired as he ate down the last fish. He thumped his round and satisfied stomach. "We need to have a leader here. Otherwise, we can't function well as a group."
Everyone looked back and forth. Silence rolled in as the thought crossed everyone's mind. Tijo shook his head, saying that he was not the type to lead. Lulu only smiled. Mikau locked his eyes with hers, and they both flushed. Japas whistled a few tunes as he gazed inanely out of the dome at the top of their head. Evan frowned.
"Well?" Evan asked after a moment of silence. "Who shall be the leader?"
One by one, they looked at him.
"Why are you guys looking at me like that?" he asked uneasily.
Japas only smirked. "Congrats, my man. You are the chosen one."
"WHAT?" Evan yelled with incredulity. "Me? I can't lead."
Shrugging, Mikau answered: "Well, it seems to us that you are the one who's doing to most talking right now."
"Then I'll shut up!"
"Too late," the whole group said as one as they snickered.
"Oh god..." Evan slumped his head onto the stone table.
* * *
After school, students headed back to their Study Dome. Japas and Mikau walked together as usual, talking about what they should prepare for the concert that would be taking place two months later. When Mikau heard a female voice calling him, he stopped as he glanced back. Lulu walked toward them with grace. Japas, knowing what would happen next had made some excuses telling his buddy that he had to buy something. He ran away before Mikau could say anything.
Halting before the muscular Zoran Hero, the female Zora smiled warmly. Her two large, red eyes on the side of her - slightly flat and slightly long head - glittered under the silver light of the dorm. Her two main eyes, her two ample, black eyes, blinked a few times. Her orange-red dress was silky and exquisite. It flapped nimbly with the tiny wind. Her two yellow, spherical earrings shimmered as light reflected upon them.
"Hey Lulu. What's up?" Mikau asked as he shifted his weight uncomfortably from one foot to the next.
"Hi. Listen, um, I need to do this one report about King Zora's Zoran Eggs that are coming next week, for my class. And... I am wondering if you can help me with it?" she asked with a placid voice.
Mikau wasn't sure if she was just being nervous about doing the project alone. After all, she had to present the results to her class later on. He laughed tensely. "What makes you think that I can be much of an assistance? All I know is combat tactics, nothing more."
Lulu sighed as she glanced to the side, almost as if she was seeking for someone. Her six ears twitched a little. A few students were talking nearby in front of the Zora Shop. A female Zora was running across the giant hall. Finally, she returned her gaze. "The truth is... my male companion is having a fit with me lately. I don't know why. I am sure that I didn't anger him. But he... He is not going to help me with my work. This research needs two people so that I won't get a heavy workload."
"Then your partner is irresponsible then."
"That's why I want you to help me, please."
Mikau didn't know what to say. He had his own loads of homework to do and tests to study. Also, he needed some free time so that his Self Defense teacher could teach him that newest technique for the Zoran Heroes. He sagged his broad shoulders. He looked deep into her tender eyes. He could feel her body heat near his own. His could feel his heart pounding. He instantly shook his head, clearing off that strange effect that was sinking into his mind.
"I... I..." Mikau started. He stammered as he tried to find the right word. He knew that he couldn't be a much of help. He knew that he should reject Lulu's request. But oh, he loved her so, but he didn't want to confess his own feelings toward her. He knew that she might already have boyfriend of her own. He didn't want to turn her down. "Sure. Why not. When is the report due?" Mikau blurted out subconsciously. His pupil-less eyes widened with revelation.
Lulu's eyes glinted with silent ecstasy. "You accepted it? Oh thank you! You are my savior!" She caught hold of herself before she could throw herself into her male friend's silvery chest. "I'll let you know when you should come over to my room next week. I need to make sure that King Zora will be on time."
"Come... over... to you room?" Mikau stuttered.
"Yes. Otherwise, how else do you think we should do our report?" she looked at him. "Of course, we need to gather information first when the King is here, don't you agree?"
"Yes. Yes, definitely."
"Thank you so much. You don't know how much I appreciate it."
"Lulu, just why does King Zora want to bring his own treasured Eggs to our University?" Mikau asked. He had that question on his mind for a long time. No one had really taken the time to explicate it to him. Even Japas didn't know.
Giggling, she looked up at his handsome face. "You don't know? No one has told you anything about why?"
Mikau shook his head.
Grabbing his thick wrist, she pulled him toward her. Just before he bumped into her cloth-covered breasts, she began to walk, leading him.
"What... wait... how, but why..." Mikau was stunned as he clumsily trailed after her. He saw Japas was at the store on his left, leering at him. His face was as red as a rose.
"Come on, don't be scared. I am going to show you this book of mine in my room. That way, I can fully tell you the reason," Lulu said as she pulled her friend along across the floor.
This is going to be bad, Mikau thought as he groaned inwardly. What if Lulu's boyfriend comes? How will I explain the situation to him? Oh god, he will be pissed off, and Lulu will be harmed! Oh Sea Goddess! Please help me!
Striding casually back to his room, Japas' face was full of amusement. He wondered what would happen to Mikau, his older brother...
* * *
Mikau sat inelegantly in Lulu's room. He glanced around as she tried to find the book. In her room, portraits with landscapes and figures confined in golden frames were hung on the wall. The wall was painted with light peachy color, making the place looked comfy and clean. A small bed was resting beside the door, and a desk was positioned directly across. A wooden shelf was alongside of the table. A small round window faced toward the ocean, providing incredible view when the morning sun appeared.
What really captured Mikau's attention was this mini stove in her room. Only a few special rooms could have those stoves for cooking.
"Here we go," Lulu said with satisfaction as she plopped down beside Mikau. Opening her text, she flipped madly to the specific pages. Leaning toward him, she read out what was written:
"Every year, our most respected King Zora would produce up to sixty Zoran Eggs with his mate. Every year, the King would bring some of his Eggs to the most rewarded University for health inspection."
Lulu's eyes looked at Mikau for a second and she shrugged before she continued:
"That chosen Education Center shall make the Eggs undergo series of tests. Then, the Eggs will be returned to their rightful owner. During the period of intense inspections, Biology Classes will have the opportunity to further their study on Zoran Anatomy."
She closed her book. "Well. Do you understand now?" One of her large fins on her arms rested on Mikau's legs.
Mikau nodded dumbly. His tongue was tied in a knot when he was near Lulu. She got up to put back her volume.
"Now I understand," he said as he looked at her bare back.
Lulu laughed. "If you still don't understand, then I'll have to kick you out. You want to stay for dinner? It's near supper time."
Mikau's face grew red again. He turned away, hoping that she wouldn't notice it. "I... have homework to do."
"You can't fool me, Mikau. Tomorrow is weekend, remember?" she chuckled. She looked over her manuscripts on her desk.
"It's all right. Really. I can't let you be bothered like this," Mikau got up hastily. He straightened his back. "You are really nice, Lulu."
She glanced over her shoulder and smiled. "You what really intrigues me? You and Japas suddenly became... brothers overnight."
"Don't ask me how. It is still like a nightmare to me."
"Really? Care to tell me the story while we eat?"
"Of course. But I better go. Your boyfriend might be here soon, and I don't want him to mistake me of taking his girl," Mikau said as he walked slowly toward the exit.
Lulu nudged his shoulder. "Mikau, you are the most funniest Zora that I've ever met!"
He was dumbfounded.
"Evan is never my boyfriend, you should know that."
"What the...! Evan is your 'male companion'?" Mikau yelled with bewilderment. "I didn't know that!"
"Of course you didn't. We've never even mentioned once about that. Him and I are old friends now. I met him when we were still just little kids. He is funny, but he became bossy after a while," Lulu explained more openly. "For some reasons, he is not really happy about the way you are looking at me when we were together."
Mikau gulped. He rubbed his face with his right hand. "I... I've never looked at you-"
"Don't worry about it. You are the most modest guy that I've ever seen. The rest of those boys out there look at me as if I am a juicy steak. Sometimes, Evan can be so jealous," she sighed as she glanced down at the floor. "I've already told him that I am not his girlfriend, and I have a right to make other male acquaintances. But he wouldn't listen, and so he got angry and refused to help me with my work that he has already promised a day ago."
"But, you two were so benevolent to each other!"
She looked up at him. "Yes. But that's because I pouted and scolded him. I told him if he is going to be so childish, then I would just simply walk away from him and not to speak to him ever again."
Mikau was so shocked that he felt cold beads of sweat began to pour out of his skin. "I can't believe this..."
"Me either. What I really wish for is to settle down with a good partner," Lulu shook her large head. "I am tired of living like this, but I guess that's life." Then she smiled sadly. "So, what about that dinner?"
"Well... I... uh..."
"Oh come on," she slapped his solid stomach with the back of her hand. "My cooking isn't THAT bad."
"I guess so. All right," he sighed as he gave in. "What's the menu, Chef?"
Grabbing his arm, she laughed again and said: "Oh no you don't. You, are going to help me prepare the food as well."
"I thought as much," Mikau grinned as he grabbed her hand finally with great courage in affection.
~End Chapter 26~
Author's Note: This chapter, by far, is one of my favorites. I don't know why, but it is funny when I read over it to check for mistakes. I guess my view of Mikau is that he is shy (among girls) and pretty honest. Unlike Japas, who is the opposite of his personality. This chapter shows the first start of the Indigo-Gos Band and the relationship between Mikau and Lulu. Though both Zoras are not heatly in love with each other, but who knows.
After the recent encounter with the Happy Mask Salesman, and the truth of the birth had finally been explained, the Zoran Brothers felt much better. It felt as if the heavy rock within their mind was lifted. It felt as if the dark, gloomy shadow of conundrum was cleared. Though they were still somewhat worried about the Mask, yet, they felt blissful nonetheless.
The ambiance around Japas was atypical the next morning when students went back into the cold water for school. People stared at his newly developed weapon - his arm blades. Those that he knew questioned about the sudden change of his appearance, but they were rewarded only a sly smile from the Zora. The blades were not as long as before, for Mikau had spent nearly the entire night teaching his brother how to master the technique of controlling the nerve muscles in his arms. The new fins awed the teachers as well. They were staring at their student the whole time while they were teaching the class. Suddenly, Japas was the center of the attention and he loved every second of it.
At lunchtime, Mikau and Japas sat with Evan, Lulu, and Tijo. The lunch area was located at another dorm outside the water, which consisted of four major levels. The first level was spread out with a special type of grass called 'Sofiees'. When people pronounced it, it sounded as if the floor was 'soft', hence the name. The dark green plants were firmly rooted into the ground. They were short and lofty, though they do grow over a certain amount of time, which then had to be trimmed to an appropriate level. As same as any other cafeterias in other schools, tables and chairs that were actually boulders in reality were dragged from the bottom of the ocean and placed neatly in rows on the lenient carpet. The first floor was mostly designed for the Bottom-feeders. Those Zoras were slow at maneuvering around the place, and they were typically lazy. So, the designers had decided to build a deck such as this. Bottom-feeders could even lie on the ground and take a short nap if they wanted to.
The second floor was predominantly dark. Though the first level had windows around the place, the second deck was sealed shut. It was specially designed for Zoras that were used to the obscure areas. Their inferred visions were not coped with the rays of sunlight, thus, made it quite painful when they were out of the water. In fact, the Zoras with those eyes for darkness had rooms that were badly lit. People called these types of Zoras: 'Night Swimmer'.
The third level was opened for all. It rested in the middle of the building, and therefore all normal Zoras were welcomed. There was nothing special to describe it. It was as ordinary as it could be. It was equal in balance.
The fourth one was where Mikau and his gang seated. With a large transparent dome at top of the roof, the warm rays of the sun were bathing this level. Brightly lit, yet few students came up to the upper deck. Not many of them liked to have the sun shining onto their skin for a long time. The moistures could be sapped up, and seriously dehydrating them. Though Mikau didn't like it as well, but he felt comfortable when the beams touched his naked body.
On the table, two spicy eel, and a few roasted clams were laid out. One Zora and one Zora only - Japas, had already consumed most of the food. While Tijo glared at the ill-mannered teenager, the rest of the group talked excitedly about the new plans for the Indigo-Gos Band.
A day ago, Mikau was reluctant to show his letter to everyone because he was too lazy to start another band; the Zoran Hero had stage fright. Along with the mail from his mom, a small booklet was attached. The Indigo- Gos brochure.
Within the letter, Lynisana described the first formation of the famous band. Everyone in the Zoran World had heard or had gone to see the performance of the musical group. A band that had made lots of money, and had fame rained on the members of the group like a waterfall. She was part of that band. At first, Mikau was surprised at the news. But as he continued reading on, he began to feel a sense of pride. He was proud of his mom. A famous singer. The center pole of all the supporting beams. The most important role. Yet the band had died many years ago due to an unfortunate accident on one of the members. Gangs caused by jealousy had murdered him.
Once Mikau showed the booklet to his friends, they began to chat eagerly. In fact, just before lunch, all five of them had proposed of bringing the band alive again.
"We've got the members, we have the instruments, and we've got the go- ahead from the Principal," Evan grinned as he leaned on the table with his right arm supporting his eel-like head. "We are hot and ready to go."
"Lulu will be doing the singing while we played out da music!" Japas said as he grabbed another seasoned fish. As he ate, he glanced at Tijo. "I hope that the dispute between both of us can stop for a while. This is big. Bigger than our different views that are pointing right at each other," he mumbled through a mouthful of food.
Tijo sighed as he relaxed the muscles on his back. His fan-like fins dropped down slowly. "I guess so. It is not fun to have an enemy to be an obstacle in your greatest achievement."
"Then let us have a truce, for now if you wish."
"Agreed."
Mikau smiled, as he was relieved that his friends were not going to have a fight anymore. "This is good to hear then, because if you two won't stop antagonizing each other, soon I'll have to settle both of you down by force."
Tijo gulped while Japas laughed.
"All right then. Shall we use the old name, or shall we use a new name?" Lulu asked softly as she gazed at Mikau.
"Uh, well..."
Evan grinned. "How about we just use the old name, Indigo-Gos? I think that name sounds nice. Besides, I think Mikau's mother would be proud hear her old band alive and runnin' again, wouldn't you agree?"
"Yeah," the Zoran Hero patted the eel Zora on the shoulder. "I want to use that name in the first place too. Thank you. You are considerate."
"Who will be our leader?" Japas inquired as he ate down the last fish. He thumped his round and satisfied stomach. "We need to have a leader here. Otherwise, we can't function well as a group."
Everyone looked back and forth. Silence rolled in as the thought crossed everyone's mind. Tijo shook his head, saying that he was not the type to lead. Lulu only smiled. Mikau locked his eyes with hers, and they both flushed. Japas whistled a few tunes as he gazed inanely out of the dome at the top of their head. Evan frowned.
"Well?" Evan asked after a moment of silence. "Who shall be the leader?"
One by one, they looked at him.
"Why are you guys looking at me like that?" he asked uneasily.
Japas only smirked. "Congrats, my man. You are the chosen one."
"WHAT?" Evan yelled with incredulity. "Me? I can't lead."
Shrugging, Mikau answered: "Well, it seems to us that you are the one who's doing to most talking right now."
"Then I'll shut up!"
"Too late," the whole group said as one as they snickered.
"Oh god..." Evan slumped his head onto the stone table.
* * *
After school, students headed back to their Study Dome. Japas and Mikau walked together as usual, talking about what they should prepare for the concert that would be taking place two months later. When Mikau heard a female voice calling him, he stopped as he glanced back. Lulu walked toward them with grace. Japas, knowing what would happen next had made some excuses telling his buddy that he had to buy something. He ran away before Mikau could say anything.
Halting before the muscular Zoran Hero, the female Zora smiled warmly. Her two large, red eyes on the side of her - slightly flat and slightly long head - glittered under the silver light of the dorm. Her two main eyes, her two ample, black eyes, blinked a few times. Her orange-red dress was silky and exquisite. It flapped nimbly with the tiny wind. Her two yellow, spherical earrings shimmered as light reflected upon them.
"Hey Lulu. What's up?" Mikau asked as he shifted his weight uncomfortably from one foot to the next.
"Hi. Listen, um, I need to do this one report about King Zora's Zoran Eggs that are coming next week, for my class. And... I am wondering if you can help me with it?" she asked with a placid voice.
Mikau wasn't sure if she was just being nervous about doing the project alone. After all, she had to present the results to her class later on. He laughed tensely. "What makes you think that I can be much of an assistance? All I know is combat tactics, nothing more."
Lulu sighed as she glanced to the side, almost as if she was seeking for someone. Her six ears twitched a little. A few students were talking nearby in front of the Zora Shop. A female Zora was running across the giant hall. Finally, she returned her gaze. "The truth is... my male companion is having a fit with me lately. I don't know why. I am sure that I didn't anger him. But he... He is not going to help me with my work. This research needs two people so that I won't get a heavy workload."
"Then your partner is irresponsible then."
"That's why I want you to help me, please."
Mikau didn't know what to say. He had his own loads of homework to do and tests to study. Also, he needed some free time so that his Self Defense teacher could teach him that newest technique for the Zoran Heroes. He sagged his broad shoulders. He looked deep into her tender eyes. He could feel her body heat near his own. His could feel his heart pounding. He instantly shook his head, clearing off that strange effect that was sinking into his mind.
"I... I..." Mikau started. He stammered as he tried to find the right word. He knew that he couldn't be a much of help. He knew that he should reject Lulu's request. But oh, he loved her so, but he didn't want to confess his own feelings toward her. He knew that she might already have boyfriend of her own. He didn't want to turn her down. "Sure. Why not. When is the report due?" Mikau blurted out subconsciously. His pupil-less eyes widened with revelation.
Lulu's eyes glinted with silent ecstasy. "You accepted it? Oh thank you! You are my savior!" She caught hold of herself before she could throw herself into her male friend's silvery chest. "I'll let you know when you should come over to my room next week. I need to make sure that King Zora will be on time."
"Come... over... to you room?" Mikau stuttered.
"Yes. Otherwise, how else do you think we should do our report?" she looked at him. "Of course, we need to gather information first when the King is here, don't you agree?"
"Yes. Yes, definitely."
"Thank you so much. You don't know how much I appreciate it."
"Lulu, just why does King Zora want to bring his own treasured Eggs to our University?" Mikau asked. He had that question on his mind for a long time. No one had really taken the time to explicate it to him. Even Japas didn't know.
Giggling, she looked up at his handsome face. "You don't know? No one has told you anything about why?"
Mikau shook his head.
Grabbing his thick wrist, she pulled him toward her. Just before he bumped into her cloth-covered breasts, she began to walk, leading him.
"What... wait... how, but why..." Mikau was stunned as he clumsily trailed after her. He saw Japas was at the store on his left, leering at him. His face was as red as a rose.
"Come on, don't be scared. I am going to show you this book of mine in my room. That way, I can fully tell you the reason," Lulu said as she pulled her friend along across the floor.
This is going to be bad, Mikau thought as he groaned inwardly. What if Lulu's boyfriend comes? How will I explain the situation to him? Oh god, he will be pissed off, and Lulu will be harmed! Oh Sea Goddess! Please help me!
Striding casually back to his room, Japas' face was full of amusement. He wondered what would happen to Mikau, his older brother...
* * *
Mikau sat inelegantly in Lulu's room. He glanced around as she tried to find the book. In her room, portraits with landscapes and figures confined in golden frames were hung on the wall. The wall was painted with light peachy color, making the place looked comfy and clean. A small bed was resting beside the door, and a desk was positioned directly across. A wooden shelf was alongside of the table. A small round window faced toward the ocean, providing incredible view when the morning sun appeared.
What really captured Mikau's attention was this mini stove in her room. Only a few special rooms could have those stoves for cooking.
"Here we go," Lulu said with satisfaction as she plopped down beside Mikau. Opening her text, she flipped madly to the specific pages. Leaning toward him, she read out what was written:
"Every year, our most respected King Zora would produce up to sixty Zoran Eggs with his mate. Every year, the King would bring some of his Eggs to the most rewarded University for health inspection."
Lulu's eyes looked at Mikau for a second and she shrugged before she continued:
"That chosen Education Center shall make the Eggs undergo series of tests. Then, the Eggs will be returned to their rightful owner. During the period of intense inspections, Biology Classes will have the opportunity to further their study on Zoran Anatomy."
She closed her book. "Well. Do you understand now?" One of her large fins on her arms rested on Mikau's legs.
Mikau nodded dumbly. His tongue was tied in a knot when he was near Lulu. She got up to put back her volume.
"Now I understand," he said as he looked at her bare back.
Lulu laughed. "If you still don't understand, then I'll have to kick you out. You want to stay for dinner? It's near supper time."
Mikau's face grew red again. He turned away, hoping that she wouldn't notice it. "I... have homework to do."
"You can't fool me, Mikau. Tomorrow is weekend, remember?" she chuckled. She looked over her manuscripts on her desk.
"It's all right. Really. I can't let you be bothered like this," Mikau got up hastily. He straightened his back. "You are really nice, Lulu."
She glanced over her shoulder and smiled. "You what really intrigues me? You and Japas suddenly became... brothers overnight."
"Don't ask me how. It is still like a nightmare to me."
"Really? Care to tell me the story while we eat?"
"Of course. But I better go. Your boyfriend might be here soon, and I don't want him to mistake me of taking his girl," Mikau said as he walked slowly toward the exit.
Lulu nudged his shoulder. "Mikau, you are the most funniest Zora that I've ever met!"
He was dumbfounded.
"Evan is never my boyfriend, you should know that."
"What the...! Evan is your 'male companion'?" Mikau yelled with bewilderment. "I didn't know that!"
"Of course you didn't. We've never even mentioned once about that. Him and I are old friends now. I met him when we were still just little kids. He is funny, but he became bossy after a while," Lulu explained more openly. "For some reasons, he is not really happy about the way you are looking at me when we were together."
Mikau gulped. He rubbed his face with his right hand. "I... I've never looked at you-"
"Don't worry about it. You are the most modest guy that I've ever seen. The rest of those boys out there look at me as if I am a juicy steak. Sometimes, Evan can be so jealous," she sighed as she glanced down at the floor. "I've already told him that I am not his girlfriend, and I have a right to make other male acquaintances. But he wouldn't listen, and so he got angry and refused to help me with my work that he has already promised a day ago."
"But, you two were so benevolent to each other!"
She looked up at him. "Yes. But that's because I pouted and scolded him. I told him if he is going to be so childish, then I would just simply walk away from him and not to speak to him ever again."
Mikau was so shocked that he felt cold beads of sweat began to pour out of his skin. "I can't believe this..."
"Me either. What I really wish for is to settle down with a good partner," Lulu shook her large head. "I am tired of living like this, but I guess that's life." Then she smiled sadly. "So, what about that dinner?"
"Well... I... uh..."
"Oh come on," she slapped his solid stomach with the back of her hand. "My cooking isn't THAT bad."
"I guess so. All right," he sighed as he gave in. "What's the menu, Chef?"
Grabbing his arm, she laughed again and said: "Oh no you don't. You, are going to help me prepare the food as well."
"I thought as much," Mikau grinned as he grabbed her hand finally with great courage in affection.
~End Chapter 26~
Author's Note: This chapter, by far, is one of my favorites. I don't know why, but it is funny when I read over it to check for mistakes. I guess my view of Mikau is that he is shy (among girls) and pretty honest. Unlike Japas, who is the opposite of his personality. This chapter shows the first start of the Indigo-Gos Band and the relationship between Mikau and Lulu. Though both Zoras are not heatly in love with each other, but who knows.