"Are you fucking kidding me," I grumbled out in irritation. Thankfully, no one heard my small outburst. Unthankfully, my favorite seats were stolen. Well, not really stolen, more like unavailable.

Master, chill. It's the middle of the school year, of course most of the seats have been claimed already.

'Mmm, I suppose you're right.'

Back corner seats were my preferred spots to be in school. They were positioned so no students were behind me, as few students as possible surrounded me, the teacher was as far away from me as possible and I could see the whole classroom without turning too much.

Honestly, I think it's for the better. If I'm to live my school life to the fullest, I gotta break some bad habits of mine first.

"Ah, it appears our new transfer student has arrived," someone, who I assumed was the teacher, said once she saw me enter the room. She stood at the front of the class, was rather short and had animal traits of some kind. "You may call me Ms. S, my real name can be quite a tongue twister."

'Right. What the hell do I do? Do I say, 'nice to meet you, Ms. S' and introduce myself? Do I just nod and find a seat?'

Fortunately, Ms. S kept talking, sparing me the decision. "Normally, I get students to introduce themselves at the front of the class-"

Oh god, not that. I am so not ready to do that.

"-but we're quite pressed for time - we have lots of things to cover for your test next week, so there'll be no introductions on your part. Please, find an open seat to sit."

I took this moment to get a proper look at the class. There were plenty of operators I recognized, plenty of NPCs I didn't. There weren't many free seats either. And the way the desks were arranged in pairs was certainly not to my liking.

Now, where the hell do I sit?

"Oh, and I should probably mention that the seat you choose will be your permanent seating place."

'Great. As if there wasn't enough pressure, already.'

Like expected, I spotted quite a few medic operators scattered throughout the classroom. Hibiscus, Silence, Sussurro, while some others had their names stuck on the tip of my tongue. What was that red head's name again? I used her in Integrated Strategies quite a bit. And that other medic operator who got a free skin that one time.

There were also a decent amount of operators who I didn't take for a lover of the cursed subject Biology. Granted, I also half expected there to only be medic operators here. Why would anyone subject themselves to the horrors of anatomy?

In the corner of the classroom, I spotted a gloomy looking person. No, gloomy isn't the best word. More like, lonely, maybe if

'Hey Blanc, give me the description of the first girl in my future harem.'

Roger that.

'Roger?'

I was partially stunned by how serious she was taking this, but also impressed. Getting my harem was of the utmost importance - glad to see Blanc taking the job seriously.

Okay, real talk though, I was shaking in anticipation at what Blanc was going to say next.

According to the old fortune teller lady, she has long hair, has horns and has a tail.

'The description matches her perfectly.'

Granted, the description also matches a whole bunch of other operators, but I'll take my chances. Conveniently enough, there was an open seat to the right of her. Something I felt fate had a play in.

"Names Hellastic, nice to meet you," I said, introducing myself to the girl as I sat down.

"Dusk," she replied. Short, but considering her shut in personality, something oh so similar to mine, it was expected. What was unexpected was the change in her body language. She went from bored and indifferent to suddenly curious. Her body seemed to say, 'who is this person and why are they sitting next to me?'

Out of all the dragon siblings so far, Dusk was my favorite by a long shot.

'Yeah, you know what, I think I might just find myself enjoying Biology class.'

I spoke too soon.

"Now please, turn to page 253. We'll review some of the key concepts we covered today."

My hands were clasped in front of me, my eyes staring into the accursed page 253. My brain was fried beyond recovery, despair radiating off me. My situation wasn't looking good - the knowledge from my previous world doing jack to help me.

Looking to my right, I noticed that Dusk was back to being indifferent. Her hands moved across her paper in a graceful manner yet she seemed almost lazy and lackadaisical taking her notes. It was as if she couldn't care less. Off to the side, I spotted a couple of Dusk's doodles.

Now, I'm no artist, but I was amazed at the quality of art she drew. It was simply breathtaking. A masterpiece in my eyes despite the fact that she probably spent a couple minutes drawing them.

Noticing my gaze, Dusk quickly moved her arms to cover her drawings. She gave me a stare as if questioning what my intentions were.

"They're really nice," I couldn't help but blurt out. My mom was an art teacher before we moved due to my dad getting a better job opportunity. Yet Dusk's doodles easily dwarfed them.

"Do you want it?" she asked unexpectedly. Wait no, this is expected. I remember that one voiceline Dusk has where she'd give The Doctor a painting but then not give it to him at the same time.

"That'd be really nice," I responded, fully expecting her to decline because I liked it.

Gingerly, she picked up her doodle and placed it in my hand. My eyes widened in response at the gesture. Her eyes seemed to also indicate she too was surprised for giving me the drawing.

"Thank you," I said. I was seriously thankful. It was a simple drawing - one that depicted a quaint and peaceful landscape scenery. A couple of mountains, a setting sun, a small cottage and a beautiful lake.

"Mm."

Progress. Good progress.

Looking at the uncolored drawing, a couple of memories of my childhood buried deep inside me surfaced. In the past, my mom would often ask me what I wanted her to draw. Being the child I was back then, I'd tell her to draw big and cool dinosaurs - something I, and likely most other kids, was obsessed with.

When my mom finished them, the drawings were stunning - doubly so to my young brain. Then, she'd let me color them before hanging the picture around the house. Looking at the remarkable drawing in my hand, I developed the sudden urge to do the same to Dusk's sketch.

"Do you mind if I color it?" I suddenly asked.

Her eyes widened in response, a light shade of red appearing on her cheeks. "I gave it to you. It's yours now. Do as you please with it."

Good job master! I think you've won her heart!

'I doubt it was that simple. But I did break the ice with her surprisingly easily.'

That's because of your aura and powers, master.

'My what now?' I asked.

Well…

'Hold the explanation for later Blanc. As important and crucial as that may seem, I gotta pay attention to what the teacher's saying.'

I was behind enough already, my short conversation with Dusk only proved to further that fact. Distractions were something I did not need, tempting as they may be.

Me and Dusk didn't speak to each other for the rest of the period, but I noticed that her mood changed - if only slightly - to something more positive.

"Dusk, Hellastic, could I talk with the two of you for a moment?" Ms. S asked once the bell rang, signaling the end of first period.

"Sure thing," I replied, getting up from my seat, walking towards the front of the classroom. Dusk trailed slowly after me.

"I'm sure class today has been quite overwhelming," she began. "So I thought, since the two of you are seated next to each other, you could have Dusk tutor you after school or during lunch and become study partners. Though she may not seem like it, Dusk is quite knowledgeable, scoring consistently within the top 5% during assessments."

I gave Dusk an impressed look. Unexpected but not unwelcome.

"If only she participated more, she'd be an exemplary student. I'm hoping you two being study partners would help Dusk come out of her shell. It's a win-win situation for you both where both party members are helping one another out. What do the two of you say?"

Taking a quick glance at Dusk beside me, her expression was unreadable.

"I'm down if Dusk is okay with it," I decided.

"Excellent. Dusk?"

"Sure," came her simple response. "What unit shall I start on?"

"Behavioral Patterns Among the Inhabitants of Terra," the teacher responded. She was sporting a wide grin. "It should be a good baseline starting point."

Dusk blushed, nodding in response before leaving the room in a hurry.

"Uhm… what?"

"You'll see," I heard my teacher say as she patted me on the pack. Her giggle made her sound much younger than she was. "Meet her in the library after school - I'll arrange the details. Enjoy the rest of your first day."

"Thanks Miss."

Opening the gymnasium 2B door, I called out in a sheepish voice, apologizing. "Hi sir, professor, sir, sorry I'm late, I got lost-"

"Oh! Right on time!" a boisterous and loud… Panda said? His voice was booming, his muscles packing, his posture as confident as his tone of voice. What exactly did he mean by right on time? I'm 20 minutes late for PE class.

"You owe me 5 dollars, Miss Dobermann," the PE instructor said, arms out, demanding the cash. "And all you kids who guessed the wrong time slot, get down and give me 50."

I heard a couple groans as a few students started doing push-ups.

'Did they… Did they bet on how late I'll be?'

That appears to be the case, master.

"Couldn't you have come a bit later," someone called out.

"Yeah man. This Gymnasium is extra hard to find compared to the other ones."

'I- I don't know what to say.'

Speechless. Astounded. At a loss for words. Whatever I expected from this class, I was not expecting this. I kinda liked it. The atmosphere seemed a hell lot more laid back than bio.

"Anyways, why don't you come to the front of the class and introduce yourself?" the panda asked. "Since you're new, we'll take today's class at a more moderate pace. So, take your time with your introduction - try not to embarrass yourself. And don't worry, you'll get the opportunity to change into your gym clothes afterwards. Now, don't keep your audience waiting."

Master, he talks a lot.

'I can see that, Blanc. I can also see that I've been put on the spot here.'

Gazing upon my class, I cleared my throat. Looking back at me was the eyes of the many boys and girls that my class consisted of. A mixed class - surprising, for sure, not that I'm complaining. Two specific girls stood out to me - one lupo and one redhead angel.

'Fuck this is nervewracking.'

Giving speeches was never my strong suit. While public speaking, I had the normal reaction anybody would. Butterflies in my stomach, anxiety, panic, a sense of impending doom, but I tried my best to wash all those thoughts away. Actually, a more apt metaphor would be: I tried my best to blow all those butterflies away - taking a deep breath, I composed myself.

Then I exhaled, blowing away all the butterflies and beginning my speech.

"Hi everyone. My name is Hellastic. I'm-"

'Oh shit, how old am I exactly? I died 17 but I'm now in my 2nd, not 4th, year of highschool. Physically, I should be 15/16, mentally 17. How does it work; what should I say?'

Not to mention a special day that fast approached. It was supposed to be at least a quarter of a year off when I died, but now, it was right around the corner.

"-the same age as you guys."

Good save master, though you could have just said something along the lines of, 'I'm looking forward to our future friendship,' as cheesy and awkward that may have sounded.

True that, Blanc. At least my comment got a few chuckles. Not from the right people though. Texas looked bored while Exusiai was busy talking to the two other Penguin Logistics employees, Sora and Croissant.

Going with the flow, because I couldn't turn back now, I continued my speech. "Believe it or not, I also happen to attend the same school as you people - I'm a student, just like you all. A shocking revelation, I know. What's more, I even take some of the same classes as you guys. I hope to get to know you all and become friends."

Sarcasm, my favorite tool of defense used when giving speeches. Still a cringeworthy speech, but at least I got a few amused eyerolls from the female population. Worth.

Booming laughter erupted from beside me. "Ahahaha! I like you, Hellastic. You got a nice head on top of your shoulders. A good sense of humor is always an excellent trait. Not a bad body either - you should do great in my class."

Leaning in, he whispered into my ear, voice turning serious. "I will warn you that my assistant, Ms. Dobermann, who's a year above you, does not share the same sense of humor as me. Nor is she as cool as I am. No, she's a stuck up bit- I mean, she's a stickler for the rules. Bit on the bossy side too, so watch out."

"I'll keep that in mind, thanks."

Mr. Panda was quickly climbing the list of my favorite teachers. And he's already become the loudest one I've ever had.

"Just don't tell her I said that."

"I gotchu."

"Whelp, you should go change into your gym uniform now."

I nodded in acknowledgment before walking to the boys' change room.

Entering the room, I was greeted by the sight of a disaster zone. Books and clothes were scattered all over the place - everything was disorganized.

'Guess I should have expected this,' I thought to myself as I looked for a place to change and put my stuff.

The gym uniform was much more comfortable than the regular school ones. They were still tight and form fitting, hugging the curves on one's body closely, while also being stretchy and comfortable. They didn't hamper your physical movement at all and definitely looked good on the girls.

Leaving the changeroom, I was greeted by the sight of my class doing laps around the gymnasium. Mr. Panda walked up to me. Ironically enough, as I would later find out, his name was actually Mr. Panda.

"Go join the others in running. Don't push yourself too hard though. And be sure not to cut corners where I can see you."

"Fuck, running. I hate running," I muttered to myself. At least I got the green-light to cut corners, not like he needed to tell me though - I always take the route of least distance whenever I can.

Somehow, the panda's ears picked up on what I said. "Haha! Then you'll love my assistant. She's very well known for running people ragged."

Surprisingly enough, once we finished running, I wasn't all that tired. It was a nice change of pace being in peak physical condition again, like when I was at my prime playing badminton.

"Alright everyone. You know the drill. Form into your pairs and help each other stretch."

'Pairs? Oh god.'

I'm screwed. I didn't know anyone here. In fact, I've only talked to a total of one other student so far today and she hardly seems like the type of girl to take Physical Education classes. Looking around, I was greeted with the sight of everyone quickly forming into their pairs. My eyes searched for Texas, my first e2 operator, a waifu I really like, only to find that she'd already partnered up with Exusiai.

'How could you do this to me, Texas? I thought - I thought we had something special. All my LMD, my resources I spent on maxing you out. Did they mean nothing to you?'

Stop being so dramatic, master.

'Hehe, sorry, can't help myself.'

Despite my joking attitude, a sense of panic started forming inside me. I hated group projects, group discussions or group activities in general. Moving to new schools, I was often alone - left out because I had no friends. A similar scenario was occurring again. Soon, I'll probably have to awkwardly join a pair and make it a threesome. Or worse, I'd have to stretch with the teacher.

Which, now that I think about it, wasn't such a bad idea. He's a cool guy. Bit on the loud side, but tolerable enough.

"Ah Hellastic, there you are," Mr. Panda called out to me. "Don't worry about finding a partner - I already got you one."

No one was beside Mr. Panda, so I looked at him in confusion. "Is this partner… imaginary or something? Or is it you, sir?"

"Hahaha! I can assure you, your partner is very much real. She's probably with Ms. Dobermann right now. Originally, she was paired up with another shy girl like her. Dusk I think? But after Dusk dropped the course, she ended up partnering with Ms. Dobermann up until now."

'D-Did he just say she? From what I've seen, we'll be the first cross gender pair.'

Hmph.

Mr. Panda clapped me on the back. "Don't sweat the small stuff, kiddo. The girl's a bit on the shy side, but she's one of the most physically capable students in my class. She'll guide you through everything."

He began guiding me forward, steering me around the students who had already begun stretching. Seeing them like that, I couldn't help but speak out.

"Those look like some intense stretching," I observed. Stretching was something I often neglected while playing badminton, often doing the barest of bare minimums. It was too much of a hassle. Still, I did stretch properly before tournaments or specified fitness classes. Never as serious as what the students around me, though. "Is it really necessary?"

"Of course. Wouldn't want any injuries, now, would we?"

Soon after, we arrived in front of Ms. Dobermann. Beside her was a girl with long white hair, horns and a tail.

'Wait a second.'

Don't worry, master. The second girl the fortune teller saw also has long hair, horns and a tail.

'Couldn't the old lady have been more specific? Like, added in a hair color or something?'

Too blurry.

Our little conversation was cut short by Ms. Dobermann. "Mr. Panda sir, I still can't help but implore you to reconsider your decision."

"Relax, will ya," Mr. Panda nonchalantly replied. He waved his hand in a dismissive gesture. "No need to be stiff all the time. Need I remind you who's the assistant and who's the teacher?"

Contrary to what Mr. Panda said, Ms. Dobermann straightened up and her posture became even stiffer. "I understand, sir."

I heard Mr. Panda sigh, causing a chuckle to escape from my lips. Ms. Dobermann snapped her eyes head towards me, eyes narrowing. "Pray tell what you find so funny, Hellastic?"

"Nothing!" I responded immediately. I was like a deer caught in headlights as I tried to rack my brain for an excuse. "Actually, I was curious as to why a student is acting as an assistant here."

Ms. Dobermann's expression softened. "Oh, I see. It's quite simple, really. I'm here for an internship. Outside of this class, I'll be your upperclassman, a student, just like you."

Makes sense, I suppose. From what I know of, in the game, Dobermann was a trainer of some sort.

Expression hardening again, Ms. Dobermann's training attitude returned. "Now enough chit-chat. Reed, guide this fellow through the stretching exercises."

"Understood," Reed replied. Her voice was soft and shy, lacking confidence. Actually, her whole posture too. Ms. Dobermann, seeing as her work here was done, walked away, likely to watch over the other students - berating them if necessary. At least Mr. Panda was kind enough to give me a smile and a thumbs up before leaving the two of us.

'A smiling humanoid panda giving you the thumbs up. Now that is an image.'

"I-I'm Reed. Nice to meet you," she mumbled, offering her hand timidly. Now that I think about it, do I have a thing for shy, closed off, introverted girls? First Dusk and now Reed. There was also Texas, Platinum and Blue Poison - some of my favorite ops - who also had quiet personalities.

I don't think I'm shy, master.

'True. And there are plenty of other ops that break the trend - Lappland, Exusiai, W, Saga. So it was just a coincidence then.'

Taking Reed's hand with my own, I shook it. Unlike Blanc's cool hands, Reed's was warm - both still comforting. "Nice to meet you, too. I would introduce myself but I think my speech in front of the class was sufficient. Don't want to embarrass myself again."

I added the last part quietly, intending for her not to hear. She did, if her repressed giggle was of any indication. "It sure was a unique introduction."

"Hey, in my defense, I was panicking."

This time, a louder giggle, that wasn't as held back.

Cute.

She doesn't seem as depressed here as in game - just really shy. I also saw no signs of oripathy but it was too early to come to a conclusion - her chest was covered after all. Speaking of chests, Reed's was on the big side - bigger than Blanc's and Dusk's.

Hmph. But are they better than mine?

'Is someone jealous~?,' I thought in a sing-song, teasing voice.

I'm not jealous!

"We should get started now," Reed said, breaking mine and Blanc's conversation. "It won't take long until Ms. Dobermann gets suspicious of our lack of action."

"Right, just tell me what to do."

"Don't worry, I'll guide you to the best of my ability."

Sitting down, I hand my legs extended in front of me. Reaching out with my hands, I struggled to touch my toes. Getting down on her knees behind me, Reed leaned forward and pushed into my back.

"Fuck," I groaned out. The strain I felt in my legs was uncomfortable but not unbearably so. With her help, my hands were firmly touching my toes as I stretched.

"If it's too much, tell me, okay?"

I nodded in acknowledgement. Back in my old world, some of my more try hard badminton friends would do these types of stretches with the coach. The coaches were a lot rougher but the concept was the same.

Ordinarily, light stretches would be conducted before training - simple ones you can complete on your own. The stretches we were doing right now are usually reserved for after training had been completed, not that I was complaining. There were, after all, two bountiful breasts pressed up lightly against my back. Her warm hands and body was also something I didn't mind. It gave off a comforting feeling like a cozy campfire did.

Reed helped me with a couple other familiar stretches, one of which was rather embarrassing.

I was lying on my back, one leg on the ground, one leg up in the air at 90 degrees. Reed was standing up as she slowly pushed my leg forward, stretching my gluteus maximus.

'Oh god, doing this to her would be all the more mortifying. A bit for me, but all the more for her.'

Soon enough, it was my turn to help her stretch.

"I'm new at this, so I'm sorry in advance if I mess anything up."

"D-Don't worry," Reed replied back, her face a tint of red. "Just do what I did."

I tried to follow in her footsteps as closely as possible, but I couldn't help but get distracted. Reed's back, unlike Blanc's, packed more muscle. Her body was lean and fit, like an athlete. She was also extremely flexible - way more than me at least.

Looking around the class, however, Reed's level of flexibility seemed to be the norm. Guess I'm the outlier, then.

"Are you an athlete, by any chance?" I asked, my curiosity getting the better of me.

"I guess so. I'm on the track and field team for javelin throwing and pole vaulting."

"Oh wow," I breathed out, impressed. "That's cool."

It also made a lot of sense, considering she wields a spear as her weapon in game.

Hiding her face from my view, she asked, "How about you? Do you play any sports?"

"Ah, well, I-I used to play badminton…"

My voice trailed off. I felt my chest ache.

"Sensitive topic? Sorry."

"You don't have to apologize."

Her question had only good intentions. Plus, there was no way she could have known my history with sports and quitting.

"I understand the feeling, though," Reed spoke after a bit of silence. "Of wanting to hide and forget the past."

Her voice was somber and sad. She may not appear as depressed on the outside as in game, but in all likeness, she definitely still had a rough past.

Before long, we finished the stretches. Yes, even the awkward one where she lies on her back with her leg up. Honestly, I wasn't in the mood to even sneak a peek down her shorts as alluring as her juicy thighs looked.

We sat beside each other once we finished stretching, a bit closer than you'd expect for two people who just met one another. Reed's legs were crossed, her hands playing with her hair as she tried her best to avoid eye contact with me. Oh, and her cheeks were tinged red, because why wouldn't they be.

'Hey Blanc, does this have anything to do with the aura you spoke of earlier?'

Within two classes, I got close to two girls. The amount of progress I made today made my attempts at female friendship back in my old world look absolutely pathetic.

It helps by boosting your charisma and likability. For the most part, however, it's all you, master.

'Really? That's surprising.'

Is it though? The one thing holding you back in your old world was your reclusive nature. Now that you've broken out of your shell do you truly realize your potential.

'Is this what they call… character development?'

Yup!

"I see you two have finished," Mr. Panda observed. He walked up to me and slung his arm around my shoulder. "So, how was it? Did ya enjoy yourself?"

'My wingman is a panda. Wonderful.'

"Are your limbs properly stretched?"

"Yes sir," I responded, giving him a salute with my face only. "They are wonderfully stretched."

In fact, I haven't felt this loose and limber in, well, ever.

"Excellent! Now, the two of you come with me, we have some physical evaluations to complete."

"Physical what now?" I asked in surprise.

"Oh, don't worry about it," Mr. Panda reassured me. His voice was nonchalant. "It's just a little set of exercises to determine your physical condition. Depending on one's race or background, their physical strength may vary."

Race. That reminds me: what race am I exactly? Sapien? Human? Does it even matter? Either way, I need to find out soon.

"If I may cut in," Ms. Dobermann said, interrupting our conversation. "I believe I would be better suited to overlook his physical examination."

Hold on a second, I don't like where this is going.

"But I called dibs."

Ms. Dobermann rolled her eyes in exasperation. "Need I remind you who the assistant and who the teacher is?"

Oh how the turntables.

"I believe it is only logical that the teacher takes care of the majority of the class while the assistant assists the lone 2 students. Wouldn't you agree, sir."

Ms. Dobermann's voice held no room for argument.

"Okay, fine. You have me there," Mr. Panda responded. Then, he leaned into my ear and whispered, "Try not to piss her off, will ya. Remember what I told you before."

I nodded mutely.

"We've wasted enough time. You two, come with me."

Without bothering to look back, Ms. Dobermann briskly walked away. Obediently, I followed - I still was a little confused as to why Reed was supposed to come with me. Not that I was complaining. She trailed closely behind me, enough so that I could feel some lingering heat radiate from her.

"Welcome to Gymnasium 3A."

Small was the first thing that came to mind when I saw the gym. Compared to 2B, it seemed around a quarter the size. But maybe it's just because Gym 2B is massive.

"If you don't mind me asking, what sort of exercises will I be doing?"

Hopefully nothing too extraneous. Back in my old world, right before I died, I wasn't the picture of healthy. Skinny and underfed, I spent too much time playing gacha games or watching anime to properly take care of myself. Despite my body feeling more fit and in way better condition than it ever was, I was still skeptical of the amount of strain I could put it under.

"The basics. Not much else."

The basics. Okay. What do you mean, 'the basics?' A bit on the vague side so, "Could you be a little more specific?"

"You'll see," came her simple response. She then proceeded to walk off into the storage room to bring out god knows what.

Reed, who was silent the entire time, spoke up. "It really is just the basics - stuff like push-ups, sit-ups, squats, running, etc."

Thank you Reed. I knew I could count on you. But speaking of you, "If it's stuff that simple, why are you here then?"

"We're partners."

"Partners?"

She nodded.

"Wasn't that just for stretching?"

She shook her head.

"We're partners for everything else as well. For example, we'll help each other perform exercises and to act as a safety precaution while doing them," she explained.

"Ah, so it's like having a spotter for doing bench presses."

"Among other things, yeah. And for any future projects, we are to also work together as a pair."

Interesting. I think I might start looking forward to PE class.

A couple minutes later and I was sorely regretting my words. I can barely do 50 normal push-ups on a good day, but to do them while having Reed sitting on my back was absurd - not that I minded. Definitely wasn't what I had in mind when I pictured 'partners helping each other perform exercises.'

"Ms. Dobermann, is this really necessary?" I asked from the ground. Reed stood above me, a leg on either side of my body, moments away from sitting on me.

"Why, of course it is. You are a student just like everyone else, aren't you?" she shot back, using my speech against me. There was a hint of steel in her voice alluding to her no nonsense personality Mr. Panda hinted at.

"I guess, but…" I tried to come up with an excuse.

'Blanc, help me out here.'

Don't worry, master. You'll be quite surprised by how strong your body is. Trust me.

'Most of the time I trust you, something seems to go wrong.'

Not this time, it won't.

"No buts. The clock's ticking and we have countless more evaluations to complete. Now begin," she commanded.

Reed promptly sat down on my back, her tail wrapping around my body to balance herself.

"1, 2, 3…" I counted out loud. No way I was going to trust Ms. Dobermann to count, in case she pulls a fast one on me. Somehow, I wasn't struggling nearly as much as I thought I would, even with the extra weight on my back. My muscles were not screaming in unadulterated agony - just regular agony.

"11, 12, 13…"

Reed was heavy - no offense. But she was also really warm - a stark contrast to Blanc's cool body temperature.

"21, 22, 23…"

As I continued to torture my arms, my mind wandered a bit. Reed's butt was planted firmly on my back. Unlike Blanc's, it was bigger, slightly harder and had a bit more muscle packed in it. Still soft and I still undoubtedly wanted to get my hands on them. The thought of using her delightful derriere as a pillow to cuddle with intruded my thoughts and I almost miscounted.

"3- …31, 32, 33…"

I was chugging along at a steady pace. Not too fast because I didn't want to over exert myself. And not too slow because I didn't want to suffer longer than necessary, as nice as it was having Reed on top of me.

"41, 42… 43…"

My breaths became more labored, my struggling more pronounced as I approached the final stretch.

"48… 49… fucking hell… 50!"

Immediately, I collapsed onto the ground in a panting mess. From above, I could hear the scribbles of Ms. Dobermann's pen as she wrote on her clipboard.

"Nice job," Reed complimented me, still sitting on my back. I felt her hand hesitantly comb through my white hair, giving me a head pat. Closing my eyes, I savored the feeling. "I… I-I hope I wasn't too heavy."

"You're fine," I responded. "I shudder to think what would have happened had I paired with Mr. Panda instead."

The guy was massive - at least 3 times my weight. I probably would've been crushed to death.

"Hehehe, it would have quite the sight," she giggled out without reservation. I think this was the first time I've heard genuine happiness in her usually soft and shy voice. "But I'm sure you would have managed. You're a lot stronger than you look."

My ego has been stroked. My hair too, considering the fact that her hand was still playing with it. She was combing my hair with her fingers as if she was trying to tame the white mess up there.

"Thank you."

My cheeks burned at the compliments. It was nice to get praised by someone who was not named Blanc; Back in my old world, compliments were something I sorely lacked.

Throughout the session, I felt Reed's body gradually heat up. Right now, her body was at its peak temperature. Slowly, I felt her hand leave my hair as she slowly stood up - her tail sliding out under my stomach. Instantly, I missed the feeling of her body heat - the comparative coolness of my surroundings sending a shiver up my spine.

Gradually getting up, I turned to Reed only to see her trying her best to avoid eye contact with me.

Once Ms. Dobermann finished writing whatever she was writing, she spoke up. "You did exceptionally well."

Ms. Dobermann's compliment had a much smaller impact on me and my ego than Reed's.

"So well in fact, I say you should get down and give me another 50."

Reed looked like she wanted to protest on my behalf but Ms. Dobermann shushed her. I wanted to protest as well. My arms were numb, still recovering from the 50 previous push-ups. Suddenly, a bright idea wormed its way into my head.

"But Ms. Dobermann, you said that 'we have countless more evaluations to complete.' Shouldn't we move on?" I countered, using her own words against her. A quick glance at a wincing Reed told me that maybe I should have held my tongue. A glance at Ms. Dobermann's expression confirmed my thought.

"Since you're so insistent, we shall," she declared. If the steel in her voice before had a bit of edge to it, then her voice right now was razor sharp - the type of edge that would cut you in half. "Your hands must be tired after all those push-ups. How about we move onto some exercises that involve the legs instead?"

She was being considerate. I don't like this. There was a bad feeling forming in my gut.

"Have you ever heard of the beep test?"

"I have."

Back in my high school, PE was a mandatory course for first year high school students. The beep test was a test everyone had to take at the beginning and end of the course. It consisted of running back and forth across the gym, getting to the other side before the beep sound. As you complete more iterations, the interval between each beep gets progressively faster.

"Excellent. Then put on these ankle weights and we'll begin shortly."

Grabbing the weights from Ms. Dobermann's hands, I put them on. I didn't even question why I had to put these weights on - the longer I took PE class, the more I've come to realize how intense it was. Everyone here is insane; these people took physical education way too seriously.

As I put the weights on, I noticed how light they felt.

"They start light, then get progressively heavier as you go on," Ms. Dobermann remarked. "Ready?"

I nodded.

Beep.

Oh god this brings back unsavory memories.

Beep.

There wasn't that annoying announcer's voice though, thank god for small miracles.

Beep.

Hey, is it just me, or are the intervals shortening at a much faster pace?

Beep.

The weights got heavier, too. Fuck.

Beep.

'...'

How long has it been now? My legs feel like they should've collapsed ages ago.

Beep.

For fucks sake, make it stop. Please, I don't wanna run any longer.

Beep… Beep… Beep…

"Alright, you can stop now." Ms. Dobermann ordered from afar. The moment those words left her mouth I let gravity pull me down towards the ground, my body a mess. I would have collapsed onto the floor in an ungraceful mess of flesh and sweat had Reed not swooped in and caught me.

My lungs were scrambling for air as I probably managed a coherent, "Thank you."

"Mm."

Reed knelt on the ground, slowly bringing my head down to her lap. Ah, so this was the legendary lap pillow. Soft and comforting, warm and cozy, I could definitely see myself falling asleep like this. Falling for her as well. I just hope the vice versa is happening as well.

Ms. Dobermann nonchalantly walked to the two of us as if she didn't nearly kill me moments ago. "You did exceptionally well. Congrats."

I didn't care if I did well or not; I just wanted this to be over.

"Now get up. We're moving on."

God I know why Catapult calls Ms. Dobermann a bitch now. This lady is the personification of the devil. Cold and cruel, relentless and uncaring - my poor legs burned like they were raked across the surface of the sun.

Luckily, a soft cough from the gymnasium's door entrance saved me.

'Texas?'

Praise the lord, the gods have heard my prayers. They have sent my favorite waifu to come save me from this torturous hell. However, there was no heroic saving. No savior descending from the heavens, bright light around them, as their hand reached out to me to pull me out from the pits of Gymnasium 3A. Instead, there was a stare off between the lupo god and devil assistant.

"I already stopped the beep test. What more do you want from me?"

"You know," came Texas' simple response. Damn is she badass and cool. The way the gym uniform hugged her petite frame was truly immaculate. Plus the sweat perspiring around her made her all the more hot. She was a goddess in disguise - my new figure of worship.

Ms. Dobermann let out a loud, exaggerated sigh. "I admit, I let my emotions get the better of me - you know how I can't stand insubordination."

"He doesn't. He's new."

"Regardless, he still has his examinations to complete," Ms. Dobermann said. "But I'll be sure to go easier on him, so go back and tell Mr. Panda not to worry, okay?"

Texas gave the assistant PE instructor a long stare before walking away.

"Um… Texas," Reed hesitantly spoke up. "The exit is that way." She pointed the opposite direction Texas was walking.

Ignoring her, the lupo stopped and addressed me. "Sorry. Ms. Dobermann can be strict."

"No worries," I responded, confused - not that I minded hearing her talking in her quiet, indifferent voice.

"You can come with me. Mr. Panda can oversee the rest of your examination instead," Texas offered.

Glancing at Ms. Dobermann, I declined. It wasn't because I didn't want to go with her, rather, it was because I didn't want to piss her even more.

"Suit yourself."

True to her words, Ms. Dobermann did in fact go easier on me. So easy, the difference was like night and day.

Sit-ups came next, with Reed helping hold my feet down. Then skipping ropes, squats, high jumps and various other exercises - some with Reed assisting, but for the most part, she just watched.

Ms. Dobermann wrote god knows what down on the clipboard of hers as she instructed me to do various activities and the period reached its concluding 15 minutes.

A NPC student called us back to the other gym.

'No Texas, huh? Tragic.'

On our short walk back, I couldn't help but ask Ms. Dobermann, "Why are we going back now? There's still 15 minutes."

"Suicides," she replied curtly. Comedically, her response coincided with us opening the door and Mr. Panda yelling.

"So who's ready for some end of class suicide fun!"

'Oh god I don't want to run again.'

AN: Chapter ended abruptly because I originally planned for it to go a bit further. Please don't mind the scuffed logic - I know weights could've been used for the push-ups but I just really wanted to write that scene. If needs be, I can come up with a bs explanation for it all. Probably

Thank you Zet4 for the review. Story has one more planned lemon. For the most part it'll be focusing on school life/ slice of life things.

Thank you RainTheCourier for the review. Please keep reading the story. My friends and family will starve and suffer if you don't. In all seriousness, I'm glad you're enjoying it.

Thanks to all who favorited and followed. You guys are what motivate me to write and break my 26k word count curse and hopefully the 5 chapters curse.