Hello again people! Here's new chapter for my story.

Sorry to admit it, but I'm afraid it's just another filler, so to say. I got sick, so this is all I could do by now. Anyway, it's here. Next chapter will be better – time for blood.

Now, for those who wrote a review:

Imperial-samaB, FateBurn, DarkBladerZX, Eurigos, skyblade132, Alex2909: Many thanks people. In next chapter we'll learn about another similarity between Orimura siblings…

rajdiangelo: Very soon

alvatorez: Yes, plain and simple. "Inc'est la vie…"

Sajuuk: Ichika's I.N. has completely different paradigm, so to say, so I can't see why Ichika may want Tatenashi's I.S. blueprints, but of course – tech will be updated. Just wait…

InTheYearOfTheCat: Relax man, really. I can't reintroduce Natasha just out of blue.

meirmamuka: I know, no one likes fillers much, but it's just not possible without them, or story will just collapse.

Guest: When to expect sex scene? I'd say chapter… XVI or XVII, not later.

Now, let's proceed to chapter.


Chapter XIV – Before the Storm

September, 6th. 8:03 A.M.

"…so this is all your fault!" Chifuyu exclaimed angrily, pointing at her younger brother.

"And this is your gratitude for that I flew through the entire city to wake you up?" Ichika replied with narrowed eyes.

"Ichika…" Chifuyu growled threateningly.

"Listen, blaming me won't get you anywhere," Ichika sighed. "You have enough time, go take shower quickly and I'll bring you to the Academy just in time."

"You want to use your I.S. to carry me to the Academy?!" Chifuyu shouted, that definitely seemed improper from her point of view. Actually, as special JSDF commander Ichika have rights to deploy his unit at will in case of necessity, but seemingly Chifuyu couldn't agree that this is one of those necessities.

"Either that or you will be late for your own HRS, for the first time in your life, if I remember correctly," Ichika noted. "Of course, everything happens for the first time…"

"Alright, shut up! I'm going!" Chifuyu finally agreed as she jumped off her bed.

"And put this on, for God's sake!" Ichika threw her a bath towel. Since the moment she woke up, while they were arguing, Chifuyu was completely nude (as it was said – she can't sleep normally when she's dressed). Actually, they never were shy of each other, but at this time things really went overboard. "This is just nonsense…" Ichika sighed as he leaned on the wall, when Chifuyu locked bathroom's door behind herself.


Events of this morning were like these:

Ichika woke up about an hour ago. He took shower and went to I.S. Academy, he wanted to come early, there were some questions he wanted to discuss with Orimura-sensei (purely 'Home Room teacher – class 1-1 representative' business, so he didn't want to talk about that at home). But when he arrived, he didn't find Chifuyu in staff room, and, moreover, no one could say where she actually is – no one did see her this morning. Usually it wouldn't be anything special – she could be busy with something specific… but for some reason, even Ichika himself couldn't tell why, he got suspicious. He deployed his I.N. and returned home like a whirlwind, only to find his elder sister peacefully sleeping in her bed.

Seemingly, due to their yesterday's 'clarification of relationships', she was completely out of thoughts, so she even forgot to set up an alarm clock (though, usually she wakes up on time without any alarm clock). When he was at home, Ichika didn't think that his sister could oversleep, so he didn't check her room before departing, she was sleeping so quietly and peacefully that even Ichika didn't feel her presence, either. And when Ichika woke her up, an aforementioned 'dialog' happened…


When Chifuyu came out of bathroom, there were fresh set of clothes waiting for her. By the way, those was brand-new early-autumn clothes, handpicked by Ichika – it was his birthday present for Chifuyu, which was a bit more than one month ago (27th July). Anthony Vaccarello patchwork mohair & wool playsuit jacket, Marni embellished button mini skirt and Givenchy open-toe ankle boots… total cost was about… 5000$... But Chifuyu hit 25, it was her first real anniversary, so who'd spare money for event like that?

As Chifuyu dressed up, Ichika urged her to get outdoor. "Stop urging me!" She complained, she even couldn't completely dry her luxury hair… but since there were only eight minutes left, Ichika simply ignored her complains. He quickly deployed his I.N., picked up his sister, and soared into the air. He was carrying her bride-style, since actually it's most convenient way to carry a woman, but… Chifuyu was feeling herself somehow weird for unknown reason. Not because it was not right… but because she was enjoying it, to be honest. Was it because it was also her first time being carried like that?

Anyway, thanks to all those machinations, she was standing in front of her classroom's door two minutes prior to HRS beginning time.


September, 6th. 8:38 A.M.

Ichika entered the classroom as soon as he arrived. Two minutes later the bell rang, announcing the beginning of HRS, and Chifuyu entered the class as well. And class immediately went silent, but seemingly not just because the teacher has arrived, as even Maya Yamada stood silent, instead of saying hello to Home Room teacher.

"Good morning," She greeted her class as usual, but when she didn't hear 'good morning, Orimura-sensei' in reply, Chifuyu sighed and asked, "What's wrong this time?" Addressing mostly her assistant.

"Ah… well… I-It's nothing…" Maya replied, stuttering. "It's just… well… today you're looking… astounding…"

As confirmation, many girls in class began to nod their heads, squealing in delight:

"That's right, that's right!"

"Onee-sama looks great!"

"Your clothes seem wonderful!"

Chifuyu looked down at her own outfit. No, despite some lack of social skills, she was still a woman and she knew that these clothes fit her well and they're quite stylish, but… that much, really? She glanced at Ichika, and he winked in reply. *Sigh* She sighed again. No, as a woman, born under sign of lion, she likes to be praised, no matter what she pretends… but not during classes.

*Clap!* She clapped her hands, gaining attention. "That's enough! Bell already rang, pay attention!" She ordered.

"Yes, sensei!" All girls responded as one. That's what leadership is…


HRS ended and Chifuyu immediately left the classroom. Since today were no I.S. related lessons planned, Ichika was intending to do the same, he was going to make some adjustments to his I.N., after which he was intending to go to already mentioned JSDF test site. But on his way out, Ichika heard two girls talking.

"…so I'd like to try something like that…"

"Don't bother, you won't be looking that great anyway…"

"I won't know if I won't try! If only I'd knew where onee-sama got those…"

"Then… maybe you should just ask…?"

"Y-Yes… I'll try… It's nothing bad in asking, right?"

No doubts they were discussing Chifuyu's new wardrobe. Ichika sighed, "'The Row' store, 8440 Melrose Place, Los Angeles, California," He said.

Both girls turned to him and looked with slightly widened eyes. "Orimura-sensei… got those clothes… there?!" California was pretty far from I.S. Academy, to say the least.

"No, this is where I got them," Ichika clarified, "Though, I've heard that they have a partner store somewhere in Osaka…" He added and left the classroom, as those girls were looking at him with saucer-wide eyes.


September, 6th. 4:02 P.M.

All preparations have been done, and now Ichika was ready to depart to test site. However, since he promised his sister to not go there alone, he was intending to ask one of his fangirls to go with him (since it was far away from populated areas, it was not necessary to take Tatenashi namely). Who it will be – Ichika was intending to let them decide by themselves. However… 'Oh, come on…' He thought in annoyance as he noticed the aforementioned annoying girl sitting on the tree branch just ahead of him. She was hiding her careless smile with her fan.

"Ichika-san…" Expectedly, he heard teasing voice from that direction.

"What?" Ichika sighed.

"Well, no need to sigh that heavily," Tatenashi said with resentful voice as she jumped down from the tree, "You disappeared so abruptly yesterday so we couldn't finish our talking."

Actually, she couldn't understand how Ichika just vanished. Since he used Realizer on her, her memories were changed. In her memories – just when she dealt with girl from boxing club, Ichika disappeared. She tried to look for him in rooms nearby, including small service room (where Ichika actually was interrogating her), but couldn't find him.

"Sarashiki, I don't have time a for this. That's just a circus, and I have absolutely no desire to join in," He replied.

"You caused that, you know?" She said with her usual carefree smile.

"What?" Ichika asked skeptically.

"Hmm? Well, since I put you as the prize of this month's school anniversary, the sport clubs, that won't be able to get first place almost certainly, like the fighting type clubs, can only use force. They want me to step down, cancel the rules of the prize and get you at the same time." Of course, these were just some wild guesses, but most likely they were right ones.

Ichika remained silent. Telling her that it actually was her own idiotic idea was useless, she's not that foolish to not know that. She just wanted to tease Ichika, and of course 'ignore' was the least desirable reply for her… and that's why she got just that.

But she definitely ain't going to give up, "Then, I would like you to come over to the Student Council office for a visit. Please come along. There's tea for you to drink."

"A tea?" Those skeptical notes in Ichika's voice didn't go anywhere.

"So, I take it as you want to go?" Tatenashi asked as she already grabbed Ichika's right arm and started to pull him somewhere.

Ichika didn't want to admit that but actually her boldness was somehow attractive. "Alright," He finally gave up, seemingly he won't be able to rid of her easily – he has to go with her… or use Realizer once again, but that's only the last resort.

"Mn, very good, this onee-san likes to see Orimura Ichika-san being so honest," She smiled.

But as she said that Ichika stopped and looked at Sarashiki with his signature much-colder-than-ice gaze. "Don't call yourself like that [onee-san], I have only one," He demanded.

For a moment, Tatenashi's smile paled a little, but she adapted quickly. "Okay, okay, I got it! I never meant to take Orimura-sensei's place! Let's go!" Ichika mentally facepalmed but allowed her to continue to pull him… wherever they were going.


As they approached to big door with tablet 'Student Council', Ichika was able to hear two girls talking behind that door.

"...How long are you going to remain blank over there?"

"I'm so sleepy... it's so… late already..."

"Do your work."

"Got it..."

One of those voices was well too familiar – it belongs to Ichika's classmate – Nohotoke Honne aka Nohohon, ever sleepy girl who wears academy's uniform with way too long sleeves.

"Hmm? What's wrong?" Tatenashi wondered.

"No, nothing, I've just heard a familiar voice..." Ichika pointed at door.

"Ah, that's right. She should be inside now," After saying that, Tatenashi opened the door. The heavy door was pushed aside without any noise, and it seems to be a rather good door. "I'm back!" She announced to those who were inside.

"Welcome back, Prez," The one who welcomed Tatenashi back was a third year girl (she's wearing a red tie). This girl with glasses and braided hair. She looked like a 'resolute yet efficient' person as she held the files with one hand in a manner that suited her.

The girl who was standing behind her expectedly was… "Wa... it's Orimu…" Yep, it's Nohohon…

"Mn, please sit over there. Tea will be served soon," Third year girl said. She wasn't a personal I.S. pilot, so Ichika didn't know her, though he noticed some resemblance between her and Honne's faces.

Honne looked like she's six times more sleepy than usual. Though her face went up by about 3cm when she noticed Ichika, it immediately sank back onto the table.

"We're now facing the guest. Pull yourself through," Third year girl ordered.

"I, can't, do, that... I'm, sleepy. Can, I... go, back, now...?" With her last ounce of hope, Honne asked the question word by word.

But the third year's merciless answer crushed her completely, "Nope."

Tatenashi Sarashiki, who became President in only her second year, let the third year sempai deal with the brewing of the tea as she raised her arms elegantly and sat down on her seat.

"We haven't met before," Third year girl addressed Ichika. "Allow me to introduce myself then, my name's Nohotoke Utsuho. I'm Honne's elder sister."

"Hmm? So you two sisters joined the Student Council?" Ichika wondered, "Just like that?"

"Yup. The Student Council President has to be the strongest, but the other members can join as long as it doesn't reach the maximum capacity, so I recruited those who grew up with me," Tatenashi explained to Ichika.

'So, she thinks that growing up together is sufficient excuse for favoritism?' Ichika remembered that Honne once said that 'We served as maids for generations'. Well, it's not surprising – Sarashiki clan is noble, and they were noble long before WWII. But still, it's not good enough reason to just bring someone into student council, not in Ichika's opinion.

"Besides, it's my duty to serve ojō-sama," Utsuho said that as she poured the tea that was just brewed, into the cup. She looked rather refined when she did that, and she gave off the vibe of a secretary or a head maid.

"An, don't call me ojō-sama," Tatenasi asked.

"Sorry, I just said it out of habit," Utsuho replied, "Orimura-san, please have some tea."

Ichika took the cup and looked at three girls, "So, here's only three of you? Well, that's explains a lot…" Ichika noted to himself, without even trying of being polite.

"Oh, is it possible that Orimura-san somehow dissatisfied with Student Council's performance?" Utsuho wondered politely but strictly.

"Dissatisfied?" Ichika asked again, "Not at all, from my point of view it is as if Student Council doesn't exist at all, so it's quite hard to be dissatisfied with something I didn't notice…" He replied bluntly.

*PAM!* Nohohon stood up, and for the first time, Ichika saw her shouting loudly, "How mean~! After all those efforts I put into my job!"

"No, 'mean' was proclaiming me to be a prize for idiotic competition without even asking for my opinion. As for your efforts – since I don't see any results – all your efforts are in vain," Ichika's voice and words were merciless, as well as his eyes. "Besides, me being mean isn't a big secret. Now, if you're excuse me, I have to go…"

"Wait, Orimura-san, we're not done yet," Sarashiki said as she stood up. She was still smiling, but her eyes were bold and voice sounded serious.

Ichika turned to her, and his smile was nothing like Tatenashi's – such a smile could freeze the flames of hell… "If I remember correctly, your clan, Sarashiki, is the successor of a famous and ancient onmyoji clan Shiroka [White Sun, but also means Bright Sunshine]. So, what the three of you are doing here? You've lost faith in talismans and shikigami, now you think that I.S. can help you fight youkais better?"

As he asked that, faces of three girls suddenly got petrified, and not because he was mocking their clan's heritage, mixing reality with fairy tales, but because he just disclosed information, which only a very limited number of people could know. And meaning of that act was pretty obvious – don't put your noses to where they don't belong, or you'll get in trouble – Orimura Ichika isn't the one to be trifled with.

He again made a step towards the door, but again Tatenashi called for him, "Wait, Orimura-san! You can't just leave like that!"

"Haah…" Ichika sighed heavily, "What an annoying girl you are. Very well then, let's solve this situation using method you won't be able to disagree with. Let's have a match, I'll listen to you if you'll manage to defeat me."

"Hmm, okay," That smile returned to Tatenashi's face as her expression showed the words 'Either way, you fell into my trap'.

Ichika's smile was showing words 'I'll change your childish worldview'.


"And that's it? Martial arts?" Ichika asked. He actually thought that she's going to challenge him to I.S. battle.

"Orimura-san isn't allowed to use Academy's arenas, but don't worry – that will do just nicely," Tatenashi replied with her usual smile.

Sarashiki and Ichika were facing each other in the tatami dojo, behind the main academy building. Right now, they were looking like martial artists from ancient Japan who had been wearing the white torso guard and the navy blue hakama. There's only Tatenashi and Ichika in the dojo. The Nohotoke sisters seemed like they had a work to do.

"Okay, as for the winning conditions, you win if you can make me fall onto the ground," Sarashiki announced, "But on the other hand, I win if you can't continue to fight. Will that do?"

"Nope," Ichika replied. "If match will be stopped as soon as you'll fall – you won't learn anything. I want to show you the deepness of the abyss between us. By the way, you may use whatever skill you like – only one condition – deploying your I.S., even partial, is strictly prohibited."

"Of course," She nodded, seemingly agreeing to condition about I.S., "But don't you think you're too arrogant?" The smile didn't vanish from Tatenashi's face at all, and the casual expression made her all the more insolent.

"We'll see," Ichika said as he dashed towards Tatenashi. He wasn't using any techniques, seemingly he just was intending to hit her in the face. There's no way Sarashiki could miss such a simple attack. She stepped forward, intending to grab Ichika's arm and throw him over herself – that was a sure-win counter, but… suddenly, Ichika's fist just passed through her hands, literally, when she tried to grab his fist. Tatenashi was completely confused, but she couldn't stop her move at that moment, she turned around, and much further than intended, because she had no weight to pull. And at that moment, being confused and disoriented, she received a powerful leg kick to her butt, which made her to roll head over heels for several meters.

"See?" Ichika asked, "That's why I didn't agree to your condition. If I'd agree, we would already have been done here…"

Tatenashi was lying on tatami, staring at dojo's ceiling, trying to comprehend what just happened. She clearly saw Ichika's swing, precisely calculated her move… and grabbed a thin air?! 'What was that?! Have I gone blind?!'

"Hey, how long are you intending to lay there, Hetare Mutsugō?" Ichika urged her to stand up, "That was only one of those things I wanted to teach you… there are more… so many more…"

Sarashiki jumped on her feet. "Not bad!" She exclaimed, as she wasn't startled by a disgusting 'nickname' Ichika gave her. "But not a chance I'll just give up! I'm going over!" She didn't understand what happened, but right now wasn't the time to think about that, and of course she had no intentions of giving up.

She suddenly closed in on Ichika quickly. The way she slid on the floor was perfect. Actually, that was one of the secret ancient techniques, 'No Rhythm'

To put it simply, humans live through 'rhythm'. Besides the heartbeat, there's the breathing rhythm, so for example, the so-called 'Matching presence' is a positive show of this. In contrast, a 'non-matching presence' would be the opposite.

An attack that deliberately messes with the rhythm of the opponent is called a 'Striking Rhythm', and one that controls it is called the 'Equal Rhythm'.

And the move of the highest class causes people to be unable to feel their rhythm. The martial art move that uses the undetectable rhythm is called 'No Rhythm'.

"Not bad," Ichika nodded. That was really nice move.

Tatenashi raised her arms, intending to make several hits in rapid succession, but… her first attack literally passed through Ichika. Not meeting an obstacle, Tatenashi was dragged ahead by inertia and received a crashing blow by Ichika's elbow, right into back of her head. Force of the blow sent her forth and she crashed into dojo's wall.

"And that would be lesson number two," Ichika said as shocked Tatenashi was still kissing the wall. "We've agreed to not deploy I.S., but I said you can use any other skill, such as technologies that doesn't relate to I.S. directly, like phase shift technology, which I just used on my own body…" Phase shift is a bit simplified variation of quantum transfer technology that all I.S. are using.

Sarashiki finally managed to unstuck herself from the wall. She turned to Ichika – her smile was long gone as she seemed deeply shocked… and she got a nosebleed. Ichika could easily read her thoughts in her eyes, 'People can't use any sort of quantum transfer on themselves!'

"Don't be so surprised, many limitations that humans have doesn't applies to me," Ichika noted, "Because, naturally, people don't have those limitations, they just think they do… Anyway, if you still don't want to give up, then c'mon, show me your finishing move and let's be done with this," Ichika taunted her. "This time – no tricks, I promise, only physical skills…" Seemingly, blood on Tatenashi's face cooled down Ichika's desire to 'teach her a lesson' as now it seemed just like beating of a young girl…

Tatenashi wiped blood of her face. She's a real fighter, no doubts. She took two deep breaths, preparing for attack and then she dashed forward like a wind. Her moves were beautiful – light, fast and precise. That was a 'Capoeira' style – a martial art and dance form that originated among Brazilian slaves (descendants of native Africans). Good suited to use against an opponent who is taller and heavier. She spun around, trying to land a quick low kick. Naturally, avoiding such an attack is nearly impossible… but Ichika foresaw it, so instead of stepping back or aside, he stepped forward. Then jumped over her, provoking her to try to hit him with her right arm. Then Ichika quickly moved back and then aside, naturally appearing behind her.

And then he placed both his hands on her shoulders and slightly pressed her down. Because she was trying to hit Ichika just before that, her position was naturally shaky, so even with that small force, Ichika forced her on her knees. Then Ichika used his own right knee to press her knees to the floor, to not let her stand up and regain balance. And pressing her legs to the floor, Ichika pushed her forth, forcing on all four. "Now, stay a while in this pose of a worshiper, and learn humility…" As he said that, Ichika stood up, releasing her.

"I see…" Ichika heard Tatenashi's voice, he wasn't looking at her but thanks to his field of view he still was able to see her. "I lost!" She announced, as she turned to Ichika, still standing an all four, but she was smiling again. "I've been defeated, thoroughly and completely," She said, her voice sounded as carefreely as before. Seemingly, she accepted her defeat with dignity, but that's to be expected of an eldest scion of Sarashiki clan. She raised on knees, and reached out her arm, seemingly asking Ichika to help her to stand up.

"You don't have any need to borrow an impudence, I give you that," Ichika sighed as he took Tatenashi's hand and helped her to stand up.

"I have to admit, you surprised me," She said. A girl was still smiling, but her tone was pretty serious. "When Orimura-sensei warned me: 'Do not provoke him and don't succumb to his provocations, or there will be bad 'consequences' I thought that she exaggerated…"

"Chifuyu onee-san always says truth," Ichika cut Tatenashi off. "Now, since I won, you owe me a few favors, don't you think?"

"I'm listening," Sarashiki said, still smiling.

"See those black scorpions?" Ichika pointed at big black arachnids, one at floor level, one at the middle of the opposite wall, and one on ceiling on the right, "They are actually mobile platforms with cameras, and they recorded our match from three different views – enough to create 3D holographic image, just in case. I am, however, have no desire to show it to anyone as I want you to retain position of Student Council President," Ichika informed.

"Orimura-sensei's request?" Tatenashi asked cunningly.

"Nice guess," Ichika replied quite indifferently. "She was afraid that you may not listen to her, which, in the end, may turn out as me becoming the Student Council President, and if I'd became one I would've tried to turn this school into something like Honnouji Academy [Reference to 'Kill La Kill']… Probably it was careless of me to mention that I want to disband all non-combat related clubs in academy… Nevertheless, I have no desire to waste my time on President's duty in the first place, being class representative is already bothersome enough."

"Alright," Tatenashi agreed without conditions. "And I guess you want me to denounce that 'prize' I promised to this year's school anniversary contest winner?" She asked as her smile waned a bit.

"Not at all," Ichika waved her off. "It would raise too many questions. Besides, if that 'prize' will make those tenderlings more active – let them go for it, let's see what they're truly capable off. And don't worry about me, despite that I have no desire to clear the mess made by other people, I'll make an exception in this case – I'll handle this issue myself," Ichika smiled as his eyes flashed with scarlet light. "Now, pull yourself together and go get some rest, I'll need you the next morning."

"Hmm?" Tatenashi looked at him questioningly.

"Actually, I wanted to do it today, but you wasted to much of my time, so today I'm going to make a few other adjustments, but tomorrow after classes we're going to JSDF test site, you and I, as I have a lot of testing to be completed. Until the end of this weekend you're my assistant – that's my last request as of a winner," Ichika explained. "Initially I wanted to ask one of my classmates or Rin to accompany me, but since you're already here…"

"Ah! Ichika-sama chose me among all other girls!" Again that carefree but cunning smile appeared on Sarashiki's face. Ichika sighed. This girl also can twist words, not as much as Ichika himself, but still. But when she was about to leave the dojo, she turned to him and asked, "Ichika-sama, how do you know so much about my clan's history?"

But in reply, Ichika only showed a horrifying smile and pronounced, "From you…"


September, 9th. 8:35 A.M.

"Ichika-sa…a…a…ama…" Tatenashi couldn't suppress a yawn, "Why are we so early here? Today's Saturday…" Last two days Ichika haven't call for Tatenashi, but today he dragged her here at the early morning.

"Stop complaining," Ichika waved her off, "Earlier we'll start – earlier we'll be done with it. Now just stay away from directrix and watch your radar," Ichika said. That's exactly what Tatenashi's duties are for today – monitor the surrounding airspace with her I.S. sensors, because Demon Queen's sensors now were all calibrated to evaluate test firing results.

"Ichika-sama's so purposeful…" She smiled again, though, with her sleepy eyes, her smile didn't seem so enchanting and mysterious as usual. Of course, despite her defeat at Ichika's hands – by common measures she was an exceptional fighter, and she no doubts trains a lot… but, seemingly, she didn't get used to wake up at 7 AM during weekends… "Alright, radar set to DEW mode [Distant Early Warning], airspace is clear," Sarashiki reported.

"Okay, let's proceed then," Ichika said as his plasma weapon appeared in his right hand. Since the first week after summer holydays was almost completely devoted to I.S. practical lessons (so students could remember their skills), and since Ichika wasn't allowed to those lessons due to his I.N. excessive destructiveness, he had a lot of time to tinker… as well as he still had a lot of things to do.

As he was already done with implementing 3rd generation plasma technology into all of his plasma weapon's shapes, he now has to revise its tactical parameters. For instance, he had to redesign that weapon's frame(s). The reason for that was simple – Ichika was a lefthander, and all shapes of his plasma weapon were designed accordingly. But now his left arm was occupied with Hand of Eisheth, and since it was Second Shift equipment, made by his I.N. herself, remaking it for use with right arm was both troublesome and impractical. Remaking plasma weapon, made by his own hands, was much easier.

And, first of all, Ichika… gave a new name to that weapon. In his opinion, name 'Ragnarök' was no longer fitting his new unit's name and overall paradigm. The new name he gave to his weapon – 'Sitra Ahra'.

The new weapon appeared in Ichika's right arm. In its inactive state it looked like massive, Zweihänder-like sword with waved blade. However, the blade itself looked unproportionally thin, comparing to pretty massive hilt, decorated with scales, as guard looked like two-headed dragon. Besides, blade had no edges, featuring pretty broad, flat surfaces instead.

"Invidia," Ichika pronounced only one word. And seemingly, that was the designation of Sitra Ahra's first shape, as those flat surfaces on blade's sides opened, revealing sword's true form – 90 inches long, Zweihänder-like two-handed sword with waved, double-edged blade, with both edges made of the same Fold-Out Armor (FOA) type as all Demon Queen's wings.

Unlike Ichika's previous sword – Redeemer, which blade was made purely of plasma and had straight form (basically it was a plasma torch, with minimal use of FOA) – Invidia's blade was curved with waves-like pattern, like a real Zweihänder would be. Since about 70% of the blade was made of FOA, both edges were like burning with dark violet flame. Blades' very edges were glowing brightly, as it was an actual plasma layer, which is emitted from between FOA layers. Ichika made several swings with his sword.

"Damn, still not good enough…" He sighed. No, it wasn't about sword – hilt was fitting his right arm perfectly, blade's technical parameters weren't affected by hilt's physical configuration change, and sword as a whole was a masterpiece, no matter how you look at it… Ichika was talking about his skill to control his right hand. During this summer, he's done a huge amount of engineering work, but that left him with too little time to train his right arm… though, that wasn't the reason why he came here today, anyway.

"Avaritia," Ichika said another word, and weapon in his right hand immediately changed shape, turning into a double-barreled, rapid-firing scattergun. Yep, that was it – triple-barreled shotgun Arbiter and twin assault rifles Anguish and Despair – they were combined into one weapon…

Now, with Hand of Eisheth at his disposal, Ichika no longer needed two rifles – in particle cannon mode Hand of Eisheth could change its rate of fire from 30 to 900 shots per minute (and particle bolts power changes accordingly), so he simply no longer needed assault rifle for his left hand, and using only one rifle – well, it's just a waste.

On the other hand, with vast amount of energy and four available bus-slots, using Arbiter as it was, it also would be just a waste. So, Ichika asked himself – why not combine them? In the end he created this – rapid-fire two-barreled scattergun Avaritia. Weapon was big and quite heavy, besides, unlike with the machinegun, here Ichika tried different concept. Machinegun has five barrels but only one EM-accelerator with arbitrary magnetic field vector position. This scattergun, in contrary, was actually almost two weapons in one frame, as it has one plasma generation chamber but two separate, 3rd generation electromagnetic compressors-accelerators with central magnetic field vector, and two charge splitters.

Avaritia has rate of fire about 300 shots per minute, per each barrel, making it 600 shots per minute in total, and each barrel shoots 12 plasma bolts in one go, so it makes 7200 plasma bolts per minute, or 120 per second. And, despite each individual plasma bolt isn't too powerful (relatively, 40 points of damage to I.S. type shield with direct hit, using support from I.S. plasma banks), considering that insane amount of bolts – Avaritia is a devastating weapon. Only little disadvantage is bolts' speed – about 420 meters per second (about 1.2 Mach), making it a mid-range weapon, but that's the idea of a scattergun.

"Let's try it," Ichika said, as he turned towards big rock nearby. Several holographic targets appeared on the rock, and Ichika opened fire.


"Report," Ichika asked his I.N.

"All parameters seem normal, no changes detected," Naamah reported. As before, weapons characteristics weren't affected with external design changes.

"What about spread factor?" Ichika asked.

"Still exceeds desirable value," A.I. reported, "7% of bolts hit outside of nominal circle borders."

"Damn… too bad…" Ichika sighed, "And I can't move charge splitters further… I guess there's no choice but to increase barrels' length…"


In the meantime, while Ichika was talking to his I.N. and thinking aloud, Tatenashi had other things on her mind. As they say – it's better to see once than hear a hundred times over. Since Ichika wasn't participating in practical lessons – there were no records of his fights and, thus, no records of Demon Queen in action. But now she saw his weapon in action by herself, from quite a close range…

She was no longer smiling, she now looked as if she just lapsed into idiocy. 'No surprise Orimura-sensei asked me to not let enemy engage Ichika on school's territory! This… thing can take our entire Academy asunder!'

The rock that Ichika used for plasma bolts damage evaluation – it was comparable in size to one arena and few substructures combined, and now it was completely gone, melted down! 'And all this without using that thing on his left hand…'


While Tatenashi was trying to imagine possible collateral damage that Ichika's I.N. may cause, Ichika's weapon again changed shape, turning into sniper rifle. Its new name was Superbia. However, unlike previous weapon, Ichika didn't do any significant adjustments to it during this week, only things that he changed were its name and back side of gun-stock, no way weapon's parameters could be affected by such changes, he summoned it just in case, with no intention to use.

"Luxuria," Ichika called for next shape and heavy plasma machinegun appeared in his hand. Again, Ichika only changed its external design, it now was mounted under his right arm, attached to lower side of his elbow, so Ichika could use it with one hand. Nothing else has been changed, so there was nothing to test. And then…

"Ira," Ichika called for his weapon's fifth shape… Big cannon appeared mounted beneath Ichika's right arm. It had very long barrel, which was almost completely made of Fold Out Armor, aside from eight thin metallic guide casings along the barrel. Not one but four coils could be seen inside cannon, which were connected directly to abnormally long plasma generation chamber, without intermediate ejector. At the end of the barrel was emitter of conical form, which serves as beam focuser.

Ichika turned to another big rock on the left and pointed his weapon at it. "Preparing to fire," He announced, mostly to Tatenashi so she could prepare herself in case if something will go wrong, as Naamah already was in stand-by mode to write telemetric information. "Firing!" Ichika pulled the trigger and his cannon shot a bright, violet plasma beam. Continuous explosion at the point of impact literally burned through hole in targeted rock. Unlike other Ichika's weaponry, that shoots bolts of plasma, Ira was a beam plasma cannon, capable of firing continuous plasma beam. However…

After about 1.8 seconds since the moment Ichika pulled the trigger, beam disappeared. "Automatic attack cancelation according to safety protocol," Naamah reported.

"Damn…" Ichika swore, "How long this time?"

"1.826(9) seconds until outlet emitter reached its critical temperature," A.I. reported.

"Only about 0.27 seconds longer…" Ichika sighed. "Okay, it seems passive cooing isn't an option… All right, here's no choice then, I have to develop an active heat sink of some sort, and it may take some time…"

"Ichika-sama, what was that?!" Tatenashi asked, she even flew closer to him to take a better look at his weapon.

"Hmm? You've just seen it yourself, aren't you?" He replied. "This is beam plasma cannon, weapon designed to destroy heavily fortified objects. It won't be of much use in I.S. vs I.S. battle, as charge travel speed is low and the activation sequence is too long… of course if your enemy isn't an idiot who'd float on one place, awaiting annihilation… But if you need to destroy a bunker, which is hidden deep within the mountain, this is just the thing you need," Ichika explained. "However, it's not ready for practical use yet…" He added, sighing. "Anyway, we're done for today, c'mon, let's go back to the academy…"

On a side note – the remaining two 'sins' were assigned for plasma grenades (Gula) and multi-mode plasma mines (Acedia).

As they were flying back, Tatenashi was under deep impression. 'He's not just brilliant engineer whose worldview's on completely different level…' Sarashiki was experienced enough to also realize another thing, 'He's also knows exactly what and why he's doing with his damned toys, as if he's holding hundreds of possible tactical situations in his mind.' And she didn't want to think about that, but she just couldn't rid of that thought, 'It's good that he's on our side, but… is it always will be like that?...'


September, 9th. 10:55 P.M.

"Oh my," Nohotoke Utsuho bowed to Ichika slightly, "You're still awake, Ichika-sama?"

"As you can see," Ichika greeted her back, "Good evening, Nohotoke-san."

"Oh, please, just call me Utsuho. Since there's two Nohotokes, it'll be unclear who you're calling if you use that family name, right?" She asked politely.

'Strange… as if I've already heard something like that somewhere… ah, whatever,' Ichika thought before responding. "Very well then, I'll call you Utsuho-san. By the way, you may call me by my first name as well, if you like."

"Alright, Ichika-sama," Utsuho nodded her head. Aside from some common face features, she's different from her younger sister Honne in many ways. Just as Ichika was intending to continue his way, Utsuho suddenly asked him, "Sorry, Ichika-sama, but can I ask a question?"

Ichika looked at her with evaluating sight, then replied, "If I can answer it, sure."

"Well, how should I ask that… What's your opinion about Tatenashi ojō-sama?" Utsuho asked pretty straight question. A bit unexpected question from someone who was like a maid for Tatenashi, but Ichika didn't seem surprised.

"Well, probably I can say that I'm interested in her," Ichika replied, but as soon as he noticed Utsuho's surprised face he decided to clarify. "Don't get me wrong, picking up my interest isn't an easy task, for now I'm only interested in her as in eldest scion of her generation of Sarashiki's family – as they say – enemy of my enemy is my friend, though I won't go deeper into details since I'm not sure how deep you're involved into Sarashiki clan's affairs directly…"

"I see," Utsuho nodded, seemingly she realized what Ichika have meant, "Tatenashi ojō-sama has all sorts of concerns, and I really don't know every one of them." Even though they've known each other for a long time, the situation may be just as what she said. "One more thing then, Ichika-sama," Utsuho lifted her finger and spoke up, "Let me give you a piece of advice first. Even though she lost to you, don't suppose that she's actually gave up. You'll be messed around by her no matter how you defend yourself or try to prevent it. Remember to save your energy."

"Oh, so she informed you of her defeat?" Ichika wondered. That was surprising a bit, though that explained honorific '-sama' that Utsuho began to use, addressing Ichika, just like Tatenashi herself. "I hope she told you that it is a secret?"

"Of course," Utsuho nodded, "And I'm bound to keep ojō-sama's secrets, I'm not going to ask why you didn't take over the Student Council President position – that's only between Ichika-sama and Tatenashi-sama," That girl really seemed like responsible person.

"Very well then," Ichika said, "As for the rest of what you've said – sooner or later she'll learn – it's not possible to get under my skin. Good night, Utsuho-san," After saying goodbye to Nohotoke elder sister, Ichika continued his way towards his room.


"Welcome back. You're pretty late today. Do you want dinner, a bath, or... do… you… want… me?" With these words Tatenashi met Ichika as soon as he opened the door into his own room. She was standing and waiting for him in the naked apron.

"Hmm… dinner," Ichika decided as he thought for several seconds. "I've got a bit carried away with my work and forgot to take dinner," He admitted. After making a few modifications to scattergun Avaritia, he began development of an efficient active heat sink for beam plasma cannon, Ira, and he got too deep into it. On a side note, he wasn't surprised to see Tatenashi here at all – of course his room was under surveillance – he simply didn't care because, naturally, there was nothing interesting or secret and/or valuable in this room, just everyday stuff… and he was curious about what she's up to.

On a side note, Ichika had to install surveillance equipment because of Laura's idiotic habit to sneak in to his room. And, despite Ichika finally got tired of that and used Realizer to 'deprogram' that habit from Laura's brain, he left surveillance equipment as it was, just in case…

"Alright!" She exclaimed happily as she quickly put a lunchbox on table (just where did she get it?). "By the way, I intend to stay here from today onwards!" She announced as she already served a first course, main course, and already started to heat up water to brew a tea.

"You… oh!" Ichika suddenly noticed what exactly she prepared for him, "So you're the Russian Representative not only on words, but you even familiar with their cookery? Nice," Ichika said with unfeigned interest as he quickly headed to bathroom to wash his hands.


As Ichika was consuming food that Tatenashi prepared, she stood near him with satisfied smile. "All right," Ichika concluded, "You may stay." Really, the one who can serve food that late may be useful. "But this is first year dorm, can you really live here?"

"Of course!" Sarashiki assured him, "That's the power of the Student Council President!" Tatenashi stared at Ichika happily as she casually opened her fan. There's the words 'Everything is strange'… no, this girl is strange. "Now I can brag to everyone! Only one girl managed to live in the same room as Ichika-sama before me. I'll become your second woman then!"

"I see you like to get yourself into troubles…" Ichika noted, 'Isn't that a perversion? Ah, who cares…' He thought. "By the way," Ichika asked, "Why are you wearing a swimsuit? It's not a genuine 'naked apron', you know?"

"Fufu, are you disappointed?" She asked cunningly.

"A little," Ichika replied, "What for all that masquerade anyway?"

"That's just a little revenge since I couldn't catch onto the summer wave!" Sarashiki answered, Tatenashi looked like she wanted to show herself in the swimsuit as she stuck her butt out, looking really radiant. By the way, Ichika noticed that she already set up all her stuff, she didn't just put full cardboard boxes; she already took out her luggage… and there was much lesser than Ichika expected.

"That's all you have?" He asked as he examined Tatenashi's possession, "I've expected more from the offspring of Sarashiki family…"

"Um, no, that's all I need," Girl smiled again but this time her smile seemed a bit unnatural. "But I see Ichika-sama has a lot of custom stuff…"

Indeed, Ichika had custom glass desk with three built-in keyboards, very high quality holoscreen with 16k Hyper HD resolution, and custom-assembled 8.2 audio system, as well as leather chair. "I have rather little amount of free time, so I want to spend it in comfort, I don't see anything wrong about that," Ichika explained his point of view.

"Oh, I'm not blaming you, just saying," Tatenashi smiled again. "Now, please excuse me," She winked to Ichika and disappeared into the bathroom.

"Interesting…" Ichika noted to himself, "Did I just get a personal assistant, completely for free?"


In fifteen minutes Tatenashi returned from bathroom. She got rid of her swimsuit and apron, and now she was wearing only a half-buttoned shirt and panties. Tatenashi's firm butt is really nice, and the light purple laced underwear over it is a little… well, it's showing a lot. "Now, Ichika-sama, what do you want next? Do you want me? Do you want me? Or do… you… want… me?" She asked happily.

In the meantime, Ichika was reading today's news. Even not looking at her he managed to examine her dressing. But… "Oh, nice looks," He said, "And right now I want you… to stay quiet for a while," He added imperturbably, "Come, just sit here for a bit and let me read," Ichika patted his own thigh, prompting Tatenashi to sit on his lap.

"Ah, Ichika-sama!" Sarashiki quickly approached him and sat on his lap, "I'm so…" But she couldn't finish her phrase as Ichika's right arm touched back of her head. Her sight became unfocused and now she was sitting, senselessly staring into space. "Sorry, Hetare Mutsugō, but I'm tired, so game's over for today," He said, holding the girl and standing up.

Ichika placed Tatenashi on her bed. "She's rather cute when she's not trying to look like 'miss enigma'. Hmm…" He got quite a vile idea. As she was lying on bed so defenseless, Ichika unbuttoned one of her shirt's buttons, and moved gentle fabric aside, revealing her right nipple. And then she leaned over and took it into his mouth.

"Umm…" Girl moaned quietly. No wonder, even under effect of realizer that super-sensitive teenager's body would show some reaction. Ichika sucked her nipple for about ten seconds, moving his tongue around and slightly biting it. During this time Tatenashi moaned several more times.

"Nice," Ichika said as he left girl's breast, "Your body really is nice… For some reason you remind me of young Tabane much more than Houki does…" He thought aloud. Then he buttoned her shirt and covered her with blanket, "Now, sleep a bit, let's say… ten hours," Ichika said as he snapped his fingers near Tatenashi's ear.


September, 10th. 10:20 A.M.

Tatenashi slowly woke up. She stretched her limbs and yawned sweetly, before she sat in bed and opened her eyes. She looked into the window and smiled – today was Sunday and there was sunny outside – so nice. 'Wait, sunny?!' She suddenly realized her situation – it's September and sun's already that high?! She quickly summoned her I.S. clock. '10:22?! How much have I slept?! Wait, where's Ichika?! What happened yesterday?!' Her thoughts were at complete disarray.

She made a deep breath and closed her eyes, trying to remember yesterday's events. 'Ichika came back quite late… I served a dinner for him… Then I took a shower and changed clothes… Then I came out and tried to play a prank… He complimented my looks… Ichika no ecchi…' Tatenashi thought but she actually smiled, "…and then he allowed me to sit on his lap while he was reading news… and then…' Last thing she remembered – she was looking at Ichika's holoscreen – he was reading something completely uninteresting (in her opinion) – something about local conflict somewhere in south America, also there were news about CACEU [Central African Customs and Economic Union]…

"Have I really fell asleep sitting on his lap?! Just like that?! How could that happen?!" Girl asked herself, "And I slept for more than ten hours!?". Of course, yesterday Ichika woke her up early, and when she fell asleep, it was already almost midnight, but still… "What a shame…" For some reason, Tatenashi was very displeased with herself. She quickly jumped out of the bed and rushed to shower… poor girl, if only she'd know… But no one forced her to live in the same room with Ichika.

In the meantime, Ichika was in City, he was called to Navy military base. Besides, he wanted to visit Gotanda residence… Just like every other academy student, he got an invitation ticket for school's anniversary. Initially, he just wanted to throw it away, but then he remembered his old football teammate's desire to at least take a look at I.S. academy, so he just decided to give him that ticket. It's better than just throwing it away.


September, 10th. 11:15 P.M.

After Ichika returned from the city, he again was constructing a heat sink for his plasma cannon until the late evening.

Now he was taking shower in his bathroom. "It's more time-consuming than I've expected…" Ichika thought aloud as he washed away the shampoo and rubbed off the water on his hair. "…but I had to foresee that – in the end, excessive heat generation is the main problem of all types of beam weapons…"

"Hi! I'm here to wash your back!" The bathroom door suddenly opened, and Tatenashi in a swimsuit came in. She's wearing the school designated P.E. swimsuit, and the monstrous body almost breaks the fabrics of the deep blue cloth, especially the voluptuous breasts that could leave a deep impression

"What?" Ichika asked with explicit skepticism, "Why are you here?"

"I'm going to wash your back," She repeated.

"I heard from the first time," Ichika replied, "What I meant is 'Don't you think you're going a bit overboard'?"

"Ara ara, you're talking like a shy and introverted person. Okay, show everything you have to your roommate!" She asked playfully.

"Ah, introverted…" Ichika's eyes flashed. "Okay, I'll show you, but only if you show yourself to me," He added, and without waiting for permission he grabbed her swimsuit. In the next moment swimsuit became half-transparent and Ichika pulled it right through Tatenashi's body, leaving her completely naked.

He could see it in her eyes – it required all her willpower to not act like a normal teenage girl would act, but meet this situation with dignity. "Ichika no hentai…" She mumbled, but didn't leave the bathroom, thus demonstrating all her luxury body to Ichika.

"Alright, now we're even, if you really want to wash my back – proceed," Ichika turned his back to Tatenashi.

"Okay okay. I'm starting," She said as Ichika got a light touch on his back. The soft breasts touched Ichika's skin.

"Yeah, that's how it should be," Even someone like Ichika could became a bit excited when girl's using her own breasts to rub his back, especially considering Tatenashi's breast size.

"Ichika no hentai…" She repeated again as her arms reached over from behind his back skillfully, and the finger seemed to be drawing something on his chest. "Is there any part that's itchy?" She asked.

"Nope," Ichika shook his head. Tatenashi's breast covered with bathing foam (that's probably Tatenashi's personal item) was rubbed onto his back with suitable force. In the meantime, he was thinking, 'Letting others rub my back... how long has it been? Maybe since a long time ago. I haven't experienced this ever since Chifuyu washed my back when I was young… Damn, that girl's washing my back with her own breasts and I'm thinking about Chifuyu… Ha ha…' That laugh in his mind sounded quite ironic.

"Wah, Ichika-sama, your body's so well-built. You didn't just train, did you? All your muscles are so well-developed…" Definitely Tatenashi was carefully examining Ichika's body.

"Thanks for your compliment," Ichika replied. "I can say the same about you… by the way, when we'll be done here, don't dress up – I'll give you a full body massage…" To be honest, Tatenashi figure's good, and not just good, but really outstanding, especially her butt.

"Ah! I've heard that Ichika-sama's massaging skills are pretty good!" Sarashiki exclaimed happily.

"No doubts, Cecilia's tongue is pretty long…" Ichika sighed.

"I've also heard that you used to practice kenjutsu. How about now?" Tatenashi suddenly changed theme.

"Of course, I spent years to develop my own kenjutsu style, adapting Japanese 19th century's techniques for use with dual-edged sword," Ichika replied. "Too bad that here's no one but my sister to spar with, but she has pitifully little amount of free time…"

"What about Houki-chan?" Tatenashi asked. "I can tell that she's really hardworking. I'm the same kind of person too," Tatenashi added.

"Stop saying nonsense," Ichika frowned.

"Huh, why? This girl's [she meant herself] a hardworking person, you know? I'm not talented," She stated confidently.

"Onee-san also irritates me saying such things…" Ichika sighed, "And now you too? That's just cruel, you know? People doesn't bear equal. Saying that everything can be achieved via hard work, and talent has nothing to do with that… this is a lie, plain and simple. You aren't encouraging people – you just give them false hope. This is what Shinonono Tabane always was telling to my sister, and this is what I'm telling you now."

"I don't think so," Tatenashi replied casually. Shattering her worldview isn't an easy task, though that wasn't Ichika's point anyway. "Alright, I'm going out first. I'm done with your back too," She moved her body away from Ichika. After washing away bubbles on herself, she opened the door and took the towel. "Now, massage, ma-ssa-ge!" She exclaimed happily as she almost jumped on her bed, still completely nude.

"Promise is a promise," Ichika said as he took a phial with the massage oil.


September, 11th. 4:10 P.M.

"Training hard, I see?" Ichika asked via public I.S. channel.

"I-I-Ichika?!" Houki exclaimed in panic, in the next moment she crashed into arena's wall, as she lost balance. As part of her training, Tatenashi made her control Crimson Camellia's PIC [Passive Inertia Canceller] manually. She was flying in circles, then from her circular motion she changed it to a straight motion, as if she wanted to break through the opponent's fire in one go and use her swords to slash the enemy. That was the initial plan, at least, until Ichika interfered (as he precisely calculated the moment when to interfere).

"Houki-chan, you shouldn't let yourself to be distracted so easily," Tatenashi said, as she shook her head slightly. She was sitting on stand, very close to arena field, observing Houki's training.

"Y-yes, sorry…" Houki replied guiltily, as she stood up.

"I understand your desire to look good in front of a guy you like, but pull yourself together, Houki-chan," Sarashiki spoke out explicitly provocative phrase.

"What?! No! I'm not! Sempai, what are you tal…?!" Houki couldn't find right word to justify herself, but Ichika Interrupted her.

"Are you learning new tactical maneuvers using manual I.S. control?" Ichika wondered.

"That's right. It's about Houki-chan and Crimson Camellia," Tatenashi confirmed. Now that she mentioned it, Houki tightened her face.

"By the way, I've heard that you couldn't activate Crimson Camellia's One-Off Ability since that operation two months ago, right, Houki?" Ichika asked as he sat near Tatenashi, "Still no luck?"

Houki protested with her eyes as she looked at Ichika, but he just slightly shook his head. That was true, however – after incident with Silver Gospel, Houki's Crimson Camellia was never able to activate Gorgeous Dance successfully. Even though she tried to do that during training, the machine didn't react at all. However, it was indicated in the data registry, so it's unknown where the problem was.

"That's the contradiction of 4th generation I.S. units," Ichika decided to express his opinion. "Usually, One-Off Ability only becomes available after Second Shift, which only can happen when I.S. and pilot are already in very good sync, in other words, when they know almost everything about one another. On the other hand, if you're piloting 4th generation frame, One-Off Ability is available right after First Shift, or after 'initial acquaintance', if you like. As such, you can't use direct mental command to activate One-Off Ability – your I.S. simply can't understand what exactly you want. As such, you have to use strong emotions instead."

"Ichika-sama is right," Tatenashi agreed, "Basically, the One-Off Ability needs to be activated when the pilot's mental state is in sync with the I.S., one way or another. Do you remember the last time you activated it?"

"I… I do. Well..." Houki definitely remembered it, but explaining it would be too embarrassing…

"If you recreate that emotion, the I.S. will respond to you," Sarashiki explained.

"I… I see…" Houki continued to peek at her childhood friend. "Wait, Ichika, before your I.S. achieved the Second Shift, you also used emotions to activate your One-Off Ability?" She asked.

"First, I'd like to note that Second Shift has nothing to do with it. Second shift is definitely a crucial point on your I.S. evolution curve, but not on its learning curve. As for your question – yes, I used emotions before, and, sometimes, I still use emotions even now, in certain situations it's a more convenient way," He explained. "My One-Off Ability, Paradise of Darkness, converts defense into offense, it can destroy both energy and matter. As such, to activate it you need hatred, and not that childish hatred that you feel towards other girls sometimes, but a true one, black hatred that burns inside you. Think of the opposite emotion and it may do the trick…"

"I… I see…" Houki stuttered... well, that's explainable as she now was looking at Ichika in slight shock, wrapping her head around such a flow of information (mixed with mockery), which isn't easy…

"Let me explain," Tatenashi interfered as she raised her fan, she also seemed a bit confused (what Ichika just said about Second Shift you won't find in any book), but she kept her face. "In contrast to Demon Queen's 1 to 0 removal ability, Crimson Camellia has a 1 to 100 increase ability, and it seems like it can pass the energy to others. As expected of a machine Professor Shinonono made herself. It's really outstanding."

"So... this ability can also be used on anyone other than Ichika's Demon Queen?" Houki wondered.

"Well, I can't really predict that to the details. Why don't you try it out?" Sarashiki asked.

"Crimson Camellia can fight alone and can support others," Ichika nodded as he stood up, "Though, it's not the only reason why she's so dedicated to help you, Houki."

"Wha… what you mean?" Houki asked in confusion.

"I mean, despite that Crimson Camellia is perfect partner for Demon Queen, she's also a perfect counter. Paradise of Darkness can destroy energy and Gorgeous Dance can restore it. So, if you people will have to fight Demon Queen for some reason, your One-Off Ability will be invaluable…" Ichika smiled ironically as he stood up and headed towards exit, "Am I right, Sarashiki? And, by the way, if you are trying to improve your synchronization with I.S, then you are doing everything the wrong way." As he said that, he vanished, leaving awkward silence between two girls, though Tatenashi continued to smile carefreely. Ichika knew that it won't change anything, Sarashiki won't back away from her plan, he just wanted to plant a seed of doubt into Houki's mind, to prevent her from developing too much trust in Tatenashi. If Houki begin to suspect that Tatenashi's training her specifically to fight Ichika… that should be enough for now.

Ichika knew that Houki started to train under Tatenashi's guidance since that Saturday when they were at JSDF test site. He had no idea how Sarashiki forced Houki to submit, though that girl is bold and impudent, so there was no surprise. And he wasn't worried about that, not at all. He was just interested… Shinonono Tabane created Crimson Camellia as perfect partner and counter for both former and new Ichika's I.S-es. Which role Tabane herself meant?


September, 11th. 10:45 P.M.

Ichika returned to his room. Unlike yesterday, no one was waiting for him with dinner or provocative suggestions. Tatenashi's bed was made up, and her stuff was gone. Ichika wasn't surprised – he saw that she was packing her stuff through room's surveillance system. On his desk, Ichika found a piece of paper with a handwritten note.

'Ichika-sama, I'm very sorry to leave you so abruptly, but I think we have to make a short break in our relationships,' there was a smiling smiley at the end. Ichika snorted as he read further, 'I need some time and distance to think about us,' And there was winking smiley after that phrase.

"You disappointed me…" Ichika sighed as he burned that 'letter' with discharge from his electro-matrix. Though it looked like a 'romantic goodbye note', Ichika easily read between lines: Tatenashi admitted that all her attempts to get under Ichika's skin have failed, and she's giving up, at least for now. And Ichika was disappointed that she couldn't tell him that in person – unworthy of eldest scion of Sarashiki clan… or maybe she wrote a letter because she was still trying to look enigmatic? Who knows…

"It seems I won once again," He smiled to himself with satisfaction, "Though I'll miss her handmade dinners…" He added and as his smile became a bit evil. She was really good at cooking, and he could eat way after both canteen and cafeteria were closed.

Good thing was that no one learned that Ichika and Tatenashi were roommates, even if it was for less than three days (despite Tatenashi was intending to brag about that, she actually didn't tell anyone).

Though Ichika was sure that she didn't give up completely yet, it seems that things will stay as they are, for now…


And this is it! See you soon people, don't forget to write a review!