[Previously on Anime Unleashed]
"This is his only chance because it just works once."
"No matter what happens, it's not my fault!"
"You stole a militarized weapon and are insisting on going back?"
"I just saved your ass, woman!"
"A power like that strong enough to incinerate and overload an IS…it's unimaginable…"
Ch. 44 Boys will be Boys
Rai climbed the next flight of stairs with a backpack over his shoulder. Behind him was Kurumu and her luggage followed by Yami with his scythe and Jolt walking beside her. The hallway had pink and brown wallpaper dividing the corridor. The floor's reflection lit from small lamps under their feet. To the left were some tall windows braced with white borders displaying the outside campus. On the right were rows of doors with bronze handles and number plates above the frames. Rai checked the small paper in his hand and confirmed the numbers.
"Hmm," He examined. "…1963. This is it."
"Pikachu?" Rai grabbed the handle and pushed forward. The door opened. They were welcomed with a sort of hotel accommodation complete with a counter for small coffee delicacies and a pantry underneath. The right side of the room had shelves stacked with books, and below that was a long desk with two chairs and four computer monitors on each end. There were two beds on the left where a small divider blocked the upper portion of the loft. A wardrobe rested in the corner, and a dresser was planted in front of a glass window leading out to the balcony. Small ferns rested on the shelves. The left door lead to a tiled bathroom with a shower, sink, and toilet.
"Ya-hoo-hoo!" Kurumu cried. "Another stay at the life of luxury!"
"How childish…" Yami stated. Kurumu pouted. The group awed their new settlement as it was clean, proper, and eccentric.
"I could swear it's a hotel," Rai added. Yami examined the books on the shelves. She picked a book and began reading. Jolt jumped on the closest bed and sat down.
"Pika!" Rai settled his pack on the chair and bunked next to Jolt.
"Woo!" Kurumu tossed her bag on the floor next to the bed by the window. She kicked her feet in the air and tossed the shoes by the desks. She lay back in her new bed. A figure stood by the doorway.
"Good evening, everyone!" Ms. Yamada entered happily. "I hope you're enjoying your stay here!"
"Oh hey!" Rai replied. Yami eyed the teacher for a moment, and then returned to her book. "Thanks again for the room."
"Oh, It's no trouble, really!" She assured. "Ms. Orimura insisted you guys need a place to stay, so it's only natural for you to have a room for use."
"Pika?" Jolt noticed a small cart with clothing apparels dangling from hangers.
"I hate to ask..." Kurumu interrupted. "But, what's with the getups?" Ms. Yamada turned to the clothing line.
"These?" She pointed. "These will be your new uniforms while you're enrolled here."
"I don't recall being assigned to this school…" Yami spoke out. Ms. Yamada shivered from her glare.
"W-Well, Ms. Orimura insisted that while you're here, you might want to take part in our educated facility if you want to be assigned your own IS. If it's not too much trouble..."
"Great…" Kurumu sighed. "More school."
"Come on, it won't be that bad," Rai emphasized the idea. "An education is an important part of learning, especially for an advanced school like this."
"That's wonderful!" Ms. Yamada agreed. "I'm glad you're on par with this!" She grabbed the clothes from the trolley and handed them over to Rai. He placed them on the bed and removed the large plastic off the uniforms. There were three in total.
"Uh, Miss, I think you gave us an extra one."
"Oh heavens, no!" She smiled. "I made sure that all new students received the proper uniform for their first day!"
"Well, I already have my high school education. Plus, I'm a little too old to be going back so I'm not sure if it's possible...!?" Rai twitched. He could feel the presence of two demons creeping up on him with glowing, red eyes.
"Come on, it won't be that bad~,"Kurumu smiled down on him.
"An education is an important part of learning…" Yami added, "…especially for an advanced school like this." Rai sweated the longer they glared. Ms. Yamada and Jolt shivered at his predicament.
The Next Day...
Rumors already started spreading throughout the school. The girls passed the word down from one classroom to the next.
"Hey, have you heard the latest rumor?"
"What, you mean about the IS from the other day?"
"Supposedly, a machine that they were testing went on a rampage."
"No, that's not it! Whoever wins the tournament this month gets to go on a date with Orimura!"
While the class gossiped, Cecilia stood over by Houki's desk overhearing the girls.
"So, do you know what it is that all these girls are so excited about?" She asked. Houki looked at the classroom.
"I have absolutely no idea whatsoever," She answered. The three who began the rumors stood beside the doorway wondering if they let it get out of hand.
"The story's distorted and spreading like crazy," Shizune presumed.
"You must have said something to someone," Kiyoka deduced. "That has to be it!"
"Oh, no way!" Honne assumed. "I don't think that's what happened at all."
"Good morning!" Ichika spoke out. "What's with all the excitement?"
"Oh, no reason!" The girls answered back. The class dropped dead silent. It wasn't long until Ms. Orimura entered the class.
"Everyone," She instructed. "Get in your seats now. We're starting homeroom immediately." Everyone settled in for homeroom to begin. Ms. Yamada made her entrance and stood by the podium.
"Guess what, class?" She smiled warmly to her students. "We're about to meet some new transfer students!" The door slid open. The first girl was in her blazer and uniform. Her skirt was much shorter than the others and her noticeable feature was the purple ribbon on her head.
"Hello, everyone!" She winked. "I'm Kurumu Kurono; it's a pleasure to be here today!" Everyone was mesmerized by her cheerful attitude and charm.
"It's nice of you to be here, Ms. Kurono!" The teacher responded. "Would you like to tell us something about yourself?" Kurumu thought for a moment.
"...I have a way of getting what I want~!" Word started flying like a wildfire.
"Y-Y-You what!?"
"Come on, I'm just teasing." The class wasn't sure how to react to her bizarre outburst.
"Do you mind going to the next student before I throw this one out the window," Ms. Orimura suggested. Kurumu grimaced from her cold stare.
"R-Right!" Ms. Yamada agreed. The next student walked in with her uniform. She seemed shorter than the other students, especially compared to Kurumu next to her. Her long blonde hair and black hair clips caught the girls' attention.
"..." Yami stared at the students.
"Come on," Kurumu nudged at her. "Tell them your name, Shrimp." She nodded.
"...I am Yami..." She bowed. "I'll be in your care..."
"KYAAAAAAA!" The girl's shrieked.
"She's just so adorable!"
"I just want to squeeze her and never let her go!"
They reached out in hopes of even getting a slight feel of the quiet transfer student.
"...How troublesome..." Yami noted.
"Is there anything you want to share about yourself, Ms. Yami?" Ms. Yamada offered.
"...I like taiyaki..." A sparkle glittered from her eye. The class grew quiet after her serious statement.
"Moving on," Ms. Orimura interrupted.
"Of course!" Ms. Yamada answered. "Please be sure to welcome him with open arms!"
"Him?" Ichika heard. A male student stepped into the classroom with white sneakers, white pants, and the same blazer like Ichika. The girls awed in his presence. He stood tall and dignified with a fresh atmosphere that emitted from his character.
"I am Charles Dunois," he smiled, "and I have come from France. It is…nice to meet you." This boy wasn't lying where he said he came from. His fluent accent and blonde hair really captured his personality.
"Dude, you're a boy?" A student stuttered.
"Oui. I heard about a male student who is in the same situation as I am, so I transferred here..."
"KYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!" The girls shrieked at this gentleman's appearance.
"It's a second male student!"
"And he's in our class!"
"He's cute and the type girl's want to protect!"
"Settle down!" Ms. Orimura ordered. "Be quiet!" The class became quiet. "With that out of the way, we still have one more student to introduce."
"There's still one more?"
"Who could it be?"
The class sat quietly waiting.
…
Ms. Orimura grew impatient and stepped into the hallway. There was some whispering going on outside.
*Smack*
The sound echoed in the classroom. A man walked in the class with a blazer, only his was unbuttoned, and the white jeans. He walked over by his friends while rubbing his back. A yellow mouse held on by his head.
"Hello, I'm Raimundo Ortega..." He gave a deep sigh and glanced at his team. They waited for him to finish his introduction. "...and I'm from America." While Ms. Yamada smiled, Ms. Orimura nodded. "It's great meeting you, and I hope we have a great semester this year." The students were puzzled by this man. He had hair growing from his face and his height seemed to rival everyone in the classroom at 5 ft. 9 in.
"He's a student?"
"But he looks so old."
A blood vessel popped on Rai's forehead.
"Mr. Ortega…" Ms. Yamada interrupted. "I'm sorry, but we don't technically allow pets on the school grounds."
"It's fine," Ms. Orimura declared. "Because of some circumstances, we'll allow his pet here. However, it will need to be with a teacher during class hours."
"Pikachu?" Jolt tilted his head.
"Is that alright with you, buddy?" Rai asked.
"Pika!" Jolt leapt off Rai's shoulder to the podium and back up Ms. Yamada's dress.
"Ah! Wait!?" She squealed. In a second, he was nuzzling on top of her head.
"Pikachu!"
"Ooooooooh, how cute~!" The girls in class were now drawn to their new class mascot. After everyone finally adjusted to the changes, Ms. Orimura continued with the class lecture.
"Today, we're conducting Joint Practical Training with Class 2. I want everyone changed and assembled on the second ground ASAP." She looked to her younger brother. "And Orimura…"
"Yes?" Ichika replied.
"Since you're all males, I want you and Raimundo to keep an eye on Dunois." The class ended. "Let's get moving, ladies!" The girl's dispersed. Rai and Charles made their way toward Ichika to ready for training.
"So, you're Orimura," Charles smiled. "Nice to meet you, I am—"
"Um," Ichika interjected. "No time for that. Getting there is our top priority." He quickly grabbed Charles hand and raced for the door.
"Uh oh," Rai noticed. He chased after the two. Kurumu and Yami were with Houki before they saw Rai leaving.
"Hey, Rai!" Kurumu yelled at him. He quickly turned around.
"Go with the girls. I'll meet you outside!" Rai left the classroom.
The three picked up the pace down the hallway. Everything seemed brimming with technology across the walls. Orimura led the group while Rai and Charles followed.
"We're going to be changing in the locker room at the arena," Ichika explained. "We have to train their every time we have practical training, so you better get used to beating the girls."
"Dude, why the rush?" Rai asked. "We have the boy's locker room, right?"
"I'm not sure if you noticed, but we're the only boys in this entire school." Rai got thrown back.
"…You're serious?"
"Which means there's not going to be any place for us to change with girls everywhere."
"Oh, right…" Charles blushed. Ichika noticed Charles reaction.
"Why do you look so anxious? Do you need to use the restroom?"
"No, that's not it…" He felt unpleasant. The three continued fast-walking until a wall of female students blocked their path.
"Hey!" One girl cried. "I see the new transfer student!"
"And he's standing with Orimura!" Another one announced.
"This can't be good…" Rai wondered. When they turned around, a whole new swarm of girls appeared from behind.
"There he is!"
"Move it! Move it! Out of my way!"
They grew in numbers. The three were surrounded by women who wanted their attention.
"I do like Orimura's dark hair, but I like the blonde too."
"What if the older one takes Orimura and Charles as his underlings~?"
"Run for it!" Rai shouted. The three made a dash to the right.
"They're getting away!"
"Let's follow them!"
"Wait! At least let me take a picture for the paper!"
The three made off past the school's digital poster: NO RUNNING IN THE HALLS.
"Why are they making such a racket for?" Charles asked.
"Well, I'm pretty sure it has something to do with the fact that we are the only males who are able to operate an IS so far."
"Aren't they over-exaggerating?" Rai added.
"Just keep running, okay!" It didn't take long to reach the arena. Once the coast was clear, the boys quickly made their way into the girl's locker room. They stopped to catch their breath. "I think we managed to lose them somehow."
"I'm sorry," Charles apologized. "I've already got you into trouble."
"Don't sweat it, kid," Rai spoke. "We gotta stick together, right?"
"Yeah," Ichika added. "It's pretty cool having some new friends to hang out with."
"No, really?" Charles paused.
"I owe you guys' big time. After all, Rai saved my back in the class league match."
"Does that mean Ortega can also pilot an IS?"
"If they put me in this place just for that, it's a safe bet that I can," Rai explained. He cleared his breathing and straightened up. "I'll settle for Rai, by the way."
"Rai? Oh, it is short for Raimundo! How clever!"
"My name is Ichika Orimura," He introduced himself. "But, just call me Ichika."
"It's nice to meet you Ichika and Rai," Charles nodded. "You may call me Charles if you like." Ichika turned around. The large clock on the wall blinked.
[8:43]
"Oh man!" Ichika panicked. "Look at the time!" He quickly stripped his shirt off. "We got a long run, so hurry up and get change!"
"Uh, right!" Rai agreed. He quickly removed the blazer and unbuttoned his undershirt. The translator around his neck dangled.
"Wha-Wha-Whaaaaat!?" Charles turned around and covered his eyes. His face turned bright red. Rai turned to him.
"Hey man, we gotta pick up the pace."
"Our teacher can be very insistent on punctuality," Ichika spoke from experience.
"Mmm…I-I'm going to change now." Charles shivered. "But, would you mind looking the other way? Se il vous plait?" Rai and Ichika looked at one another.
"…Sure...?" Rai shrugged. They both stared at the lockers in front of them. Ichika looked back to quickly remind him.
"Just hurry it up, okay?" He asked. In a split second, Charles already had his black suit covering his upper torso and lower thighs. His abdomen was exposed as well as his lower shins. His special necklace hanged in front of his chest with an orange crest.
"I-Is something wrong?" Charles asked.
"It's just you change incredibly fast." Ichika sweated.
"He's probably used to it," Rai assumed. He pulled his new suit over his head and just barely fitted it past his ribs. "God damn!" When he tugged his pants, he could feel the latex squeezing and tightening his lower legs. "This suit is tight!"
"These things are a pain sometimes to put on," Ichika noted. "Since you can't wear any underwear underneath them, my things are always getting caught."
"Your…things get caught?" Charles stuttered.
"Yep, I noticed," Rai realized. He tried stretching the front to relax the tension. Charles's face grew bright red. "So, what's your trick, Charles? Stretch first or dry clean?" He looked down at his outfit.
"Actually, this suit is an original made by Dunois."
"Dunois?" Ichika asked. "Your last name is Dunois too, isn't it?"
"My papa is the company C.E.O. As you know, Dunois is the largest IS-related Corporation in all of France."
"Son of the C.E.O.?" Rai pondered. "Sounds like you got it made, man." Rai nudged him a little on the side. "You know what? You're alright in my book." Rai patted the young student on the back roughly. The wind was almost knocked out of him. "And here I thought most French people were snobby and just full of themselves." Rai looked back at him, but Charles lowered his head. "Oh, my bad! I shouldn't make assumptions like that."
"No no, it's fine. Really." Rai felt like an ass.
The students were lined up evenly. They faced forward waiting for their instructor to issue their objective. Chifuyu stood at the front.
"Your practical training begins now," she ordered.
"Right!" The students replied.
"Pika!" Jolt stood at attention.
"First, we need to demonstrate a real battle." She eyed her two fighters. "Fan! Alcott!"
"Ma'am!" Rin answered.
"Ma'am!" Cecilia answered.
"Since you have your own machines, I'm sure you'll gladly volunteer." Chifuyu ordered. "Step forward girls." They both approached.
"What a nuisance," Rin moaned. "Why is it always me?"
"Such a vulgar spectacle," Cecilia mumbled. "Do I really have to do this?" Chifuyu passed the two. She stopped.
"Show a little more enthusiasm," she suggested. "This is the perfect chance to show off for the boys." The two immediately realized their goal.
"It looks like it's time for Cecilia Alcott, England's Representative Contender, to step up and take charge!" She declared.
"And I can show the difference between those who have personal machines and those who don't!" Rin presented. The class was left speechless.
"What are they talking about?" Kurumu asked. She and Yami wore the exact uniforms as the other classmates. It looked to be a one piece from the neck down to the hips with no sleeves. Their leggings extended from their thighs down to their shoes.
"It seems the teacher influenced their opinion…" Yami assumed.
"So, who's my rival?" Cecilia questioned. "I wouldn't mine tossing you away, Restaurant Girl."
"That's my line," Rin grinned. "You are so dead meat."
"Oh, don't get ahead of yourselves," Chifuyu warned them. "You haven't met your opponent."
*Twinkle*
A glitter came from the sky.
"Kyaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!" A woman shrieked. Everyone stared at the falling object. It turned out to be Ms. Yamada driving a green-coated IS. Unfortunately, it looked like she was diving without slowing down. "Get out of the way!" Her speed increased as she braced for impact. "Please and thank you!" Ichika's eyes widened the closer she flew in.
KA-BOOM!
The teacher crash landed forming a dirt cloud around the area. When it cleared, everyone watched as Ichika groped the teacher's chest from on top of her.
"How did he even get in that position?" Kurumu asked.
"…It must be out of his control," Yami recalled.
"E-Excuse me, Orimura…" Ms. Yamada whispered. Ichika finally regained consciousness. He freaked when he saw where his hands were. However, she didn't seem to mind. "Yes, there does appear to be a…little bit of a problem here." She blushed. "You see, if this progresses, Ms. Orimura is going to be my sister-in-law, and while I have to admit that does sound quite tempting…I—" Ichika quickly got to his feet.
"I'm sorry!" He cried.
PEW!
"Whoa!" Rai pulled Ichika from the shoulder before the laser zipped through his head. The two looked over at Cecilia who now suited into her IS.
"Ohohoho," She chuckled. "Oh my goodness, sorry. I seem to have misfired."
"I call bullshit on that account."
Ka-chink!
Rin had just geared up. She latched her swords together and formed her double-blade spear.
"ICHIKA!" Rin shouted. She tossed the staff at the boy. The two hit the dirt.
*Grab!*
The staff stopped in mid-air. Yami's hair latched around the rod. She continued spinning it until she pierced it halfway into the ground. She jumped upward and landed on the blade's tip.
"…How troublesome," she spoke. The other students awed her display.
"Quit showing off!" Kurumu yelled at her. Yami jumped off the staff and walked back beside her other students. They were sweating at her amazing skill.
"…Please continue…"
"Well, at least someone around here has some sense," said Chifuyu. "Anyway, Ms. Yamada used to be a representative contender." Ms. Yamada stepped out of the crater with a sniper gun in her right hand. On her head, she now had a set of goggles along with two floating shields over her mech-arms.
"Thanks," Ms. Yamada rubbed her head, "but that was a long time ago. I can never break free from just being a contender."
"But, you're still more than a match for these two, together."
"What?" Cecilia asked. "You can't mean it's going to be two against one?"
"I don't think that's a very good idea," Rin agreed.
"Oh, don't worry," Chifuyu announced. "I'm sure your embarrassment won't last very long." The girls pouted. "Besides, it's going to be a free-for-all."
"What do you mean by that?" Cecilia asked. Chifuyu looked to the crowd.
"Kurono! Front and center!"
"Huh?" Kurumu replied. "You want me?"
"Let's move it!" Kurumu hurried over.
"What's up?" Chifuyu checked her pocket and pulled out a small, black device.
"Here." She handed it to Kurumu. "You're in charge of keeping this." Rai noticed the object.
"Hey!" He shook his fist. "That's my phone!"
"Well, now it's a flag." He turned to Rin and Cecilia. "Your objective is to take the phone away from Kurono while at the same time keeping up with Ms. Yamada. Understood?"
"Wait, you're saying I'm going to be bait!?" Kurumu agitated.
"You said yourself that you were an ace in flying." Chifuyu smiled at her. "Time to see if that wasn't just all talk." Kurumu looked up at the teacher. She took this as a challenge she couldn't turn down. Jolt looked up at her.
"Pikachu!" He raised his small fist.
"Hmph," she grinned. "You'll see just how real my skills are." Kurumu's wings shot from her back. In an instant, she took to the sky and circled over the contenders. Some of the girls were mystified by her ability.
"She has wings!?"
"How did she do that?"
Chifuyu raised her arm.
"Let the carnage…begin!" Rin, Cecilia, and Ms. Yamada took off after Kurumu. Ichika and the others watched as they went soaring higher. Once they were high enough, the three fighters circled around Kurumu. She wrapped her tail around the phone as she studied each of their arsenals.
"Just so you know," Cecilia spoke, "I'm not going to hold back."
"We weren't actually being serious earlier, anyway!" Rin added.
"Sure you weren't," Kurumu rolled her eyes.
"Well," Ms. Yamada readied her weapon. "Here we come!" Cecilia and Rin separated in different directions. The English woman took to a higher altitude and released her four swift lades.
Pew! Pew! Pew! Pew!
They quickly spammed their lasers to the succubus. In a split second, Kurumu flapped her wings and moved in reverse. She then spun around as they rained from above. Rin readied her spheres.
PEW!
Her shock cannon open-fired. Kurumu dove to the ground below. As it trailed behind her, she pulled up and soared back into the sky.
Boom!
The laser formed a blast in the ground. Ms. Yamada zoomed and chased after her.
"Mr. Dunois," Chifuyu requested. "I'd like you to tell us about the IS that Ms. Yamada is using."
"But, of course!" Charles replied. "Ms. Yamada's IS is a Rafale Revive made by the Dunois corporation. It was created at the end of the second-generation development. However, its specs are not inferior the early third-generation models." The three continued swarming the girl with aerial maneuvers. Ms. Yamada fired her sniper rifle at Kurumu just missing her, but the lasers continued toward the girls. "This is the latest mass-produced model that is currently in use. Right now, its market share ranks third world-wide." As Rin and Cecilia rushed at Kurumu, she flew upward.
BAM!
They collided. "Furthermore, this model can be modified for combat…" Ms. Yamada's right hand summoned a large M32 Hammer large enough for her to hold. "…artillery…" She twirled it above her until she gripped it with both hands. "…and defense."
PEW!
She fired a capsule from the barrel. It flew right at the immobilized girls.
"Grenade!" Rai shouted.
"Eh?" They cried.
KA-BOOM!
The grenade exploded. "KYAAAAAAA!" The girls spun out as they went in for a crash landing.
BOOM!
The dirt cloud surrounded the two until it cleared. Their heads spun from the surprise attack. Cecilia was on top of Rin.
"Ugh, I can't believe this is happening to me!" Cecilia whined.
"Couldn't you tell she knew exactly where you would go to try and escape?" Rin complained.
"And what about you?" Kurumu descended to the ground. She flicked the phone with her tail and caught it in her hand. "You were taking unnecessary shots like an idiot!" Ms. Yamada descended next to the winner.
"Looks like I win!" Kurumu boasted.
"It seems that way!" Ms. Yamada smiled.
"More importantly," Chifuyu intervened. "Now you know what your instructor is capable of. Knowing that, you should show her the proper respect." Chifuyu continued her lecture. "For the first phase of practical training, you will form teams. Those with personal machines will be the group leaders. So, get forming already!" The girls scattered into different areas. Some would hurry over to Ichika without him noticing.
"Let me join your group, Orimura!" One student chanted. The other girls went over with Charles.
"I want to see your control techniques, Dunois!" Another student giggled.
"Hey, can I join you too!" Eventually, the students joined Cecilia and Rin. Rai decided to hang out with Orimura while Kurumu went with Cecilia and Yami with Rin. Their lecture was to define the basic principles of using IS controls and balancing of shield energy. They looked more interested in the two, transforming girls than actually sticking to the class procedures. Some even went over to Ms. Chifuyu just to talk wit her, but more likely to cuddle with Jolt.
"Don't touch anything unless I tell you to," Rin informed. "I'm not responsible if you hurt yourself…" She turned to Yami in front of her. Rin flinched.
"…Understood," Yami nodded. Rin sweat dropped.
"Now," Cecilia announced, "I want you ladies to take turns and try putting it on." Her attention was switched back to Ichika who also gave directions to his group. She wasn't the only one.
"I really wish I could have gone over there, too," Rin whispered to herself.
"It's times like this I curse myself for being such an elite." Houki wasn't too pleased either. She grunted.
"Okay," Ichika explained. "In accordance of your attendance number, I want you to activate the IS and walk. The first one up is…"
"Me, me!" The student jumped. "My attendance number is one! I'm Kiyoka Aikawa! I'm in the handball club, and my hobbies are watching sports and jogging!" She bent down and offered her hand to him. "Nice to meet you."
"Huh?"
"Hey, no fair!" The other girls argued. Three of them stepped forward and offered their hands. "I knew it was you at first site!" Ichika looked over to Charles who was in the same predicament.
"Welcome to the manly grinder, Charles," Ichika rubbed his head. Rai idled by and waited for his turn.
"…I better see how the others are doing," he suggested.
"Watch it!" Cecilia cried. Kurumu was stumbling back and forth in the large suit. She leaned backward, but pushed herself forward and stumbled.
"How do you work this crazy thing!?" Kurumu wailed. Rai hurried over.
"You must maintain your center of balance!" Cecilia ordered. "Stop trying to force yourself to move it!"
"Easier said than done!" Kurumu was ready to fall on Cecilia. "Whoa!"
*Grab!*
Rai held Kurumu's arms from behind. He positioned his feet on the IS garb armor and pulled her back. The girls were surprised by his antic as he kept her from falling.
"What on Earth!?"
"Kurumu," Rai proposed. "Slowly lean back, and fix your footing!" She paused.
"…Alright," she replied. She adjusted her torso and rose upward. She fixed her footing and stood at attention. With her posture restored, Rai released his hold on her and jumped off.
"How's that?"
"Yeah, thanks." The girls wondered.
"How did he know how to do that?"
"Has he driven an IS before?"
"He's the other boy who can pilot an IS."
Cecilia stared curiously at Rai.
"Isn't he the same man from the other day?" She asked herself as she walked over to him. "How did you know to handle that situation without the proper training?"
"Oh that?" Rai replied. "I kinda had the same problem when I first started. But, once you feel like the suit is just a part of you, it's easy." Cecilia pondered his actions.
"Hey, Raimundo!" Ichika called to him. "You're up next!"
"I'm on it!" Rai hurried over to the IS. The suit was ready for mounting. He ran up the side garb, pulled himself over, and locked his legs into place. He adjusted his arms and fixed the data screen over his face. "Alright 'Teach', what's next?"
"All you gotta do is walk around for a bit," Ichika explained. Rai started hopping in place and lightly punching the air in front of him. "Although, it looks like you already have the hang of it."
"Yeah, but the flying part is what gets me." When he turned around to walk, Yami and Kurumu approached in there IS suits. The three met together in one spot. "So, feeling good, guys?"
"…It's very complex," Yami answered. She fired the boosters and hovered in the air. Kurumu activated the thrusters and used her wings to keep her balance.
"You're right!" Kurumu added. "It gets easier the more you do it!" The two waited for Rai to come up with them. "Come on!"
"Ha-ha, yeah, I don't think so," Rai disagreed. "If I was meant to fly, God would have given me wings."
"That's what the thrusters are for. You already did it before, right?"
"Yeah, because I we have a hover car. Trying to fly freestyle is a whole different game." He turned around and walked over to Ichika. "I'll stick to walking."
"What a wuss." Kurumu and Yami both descended back to the ground with the machines. Rai dismounted and jumped in front of the others.
"Alright, so who's next?" Ichika asked. The next student moved forward.
"It's me," said Houki. She checked the IS. It looked too high for her to reach. "However, there's no way I can reach the cockpit with a lift like that."
"Actually," Ms. Yamada called out. "That's a common mistake a lot of riders make in the beginning."
"…Wanna borrow my hammer?" Rai asked. Ms. Yamada made a suggestion.
"Orimura, can you make she she's properly mounted?"
"…What!?" Ichika paused.
"E-Excuse me?" Houki panicked.
"Orimura, take out the Byakushiki now," Ms. Yamada requested.
"Right." Ichika raised his hand. In a flash of light, the metallic brace on his left arm radiated until his entire body shined and the IS was worn.
"So," Kurumu added. She and Yami approached the scene without their IS. "What exactly is he supposed to do with that?"
"He's gonna pick Ms. Shinonono in his arms, of course!" Ms. Yamada explained. "And then shove her on that big thing!"
"KYAAAAAAAAAAA!" The girls gasped at the teacher's remark. Rai blinked.
"…Good night, everybody!" He smiled.
"…How ecchi," Yami spoke.
Ding~! Ding~! Dong~!
The lunch bell rang after class. Rai placed the books in his bag and looked inside.
"Let's see." He dug his way in until he felt his meal. "A-ha!" He pulled out a wrap covered with tinfoil. The girl's nearby watched as he held the long, thick burrito with both hands. They all stared intently as he tore open the cover. The girls slowly inched forward as he was about to shove it in his mouth.
*Swipe!*
Rai's meal was snatched from his hands.
"Awww…" The girls moaned.
"Hey!" Rai complained. He turned to Yami who held his food. "I was gonna eat that."
"…Let's go," She instructed. Rai pushed himself from his seat and followed her out.
"What's up, Yami?" The two walked down the hallway.
"Everyone is waiting for us on the roof." Yami turned right as she lead Rai up the stairs.
"Everyone?" The doors opened. The group was in a circle with the following people: Ichika, Charles, Kurumu, Houki, Cecilia, Rin, and Jolt.
"Pikapika!" Jolt waved to him.
"There you are!" Ichika welcomed the two.
"It's about time," Kurumu huffed. "How long do you expect us to wait?"
"I didn't even know you were waiting…" Rai scratched his head. He decided to take a seat over by Ichika on the right side. Yami dropped the wrap in his lap and took her seat by Kurumu. The sky was clear with a light breeze. It was a nice day for friends to hang out. The only problem seemed to be the gloomy frown that Houki expressed. She looked depressed over the matter, but the other girls didn't seem as bothered. Although, they kept their lunches close by.
"…What's going on here?" Houki asked.
"Well, the more the merrier, right?" Ichika offered. "Besides, everyone just transferred here, so they don't really know their way around without us, right?"
"Yeah, maybe…but…" Cecilia, Rin, and Houki all shot intense stares at one another. Rai could see the sparks flying…literally.
"Hey man, do you think we might be playing the fifth wheel?" Rai asked.
"What are you talking about?" Ichika smiled. "We guys should stick together! Especially since Charles and I are going to be sharing the same room from now on."
"Ichika, I'm touched!" He smiled warmly. "You know, you're really a sweet guy." Ichika blushed brightly. Rai and the others simply shrugged.
"Would you like to tell me why you're blushing?" Rin asked.
"Blushing?" Ichika stuttered. "I'm not blushing, am I!?"
"Big time," Kurumu noted. Everyone decided to pop open their lunches. Rin had her box open first. Inside was her sweet & sour pork complete with chopped peppers and onions.
"Wow! Sweet & sour pork!" Ichika eyed the delicacy in front of him.
"Yup, made it this morning," Rin explained. "You said you wanted to have some, right?"
"Ahem…" Cecilia interrupted. "Ichika…it just so happens that I also awakened bright and early this morning. So, I prepared this delightful basket of sandwiches for you." Her double-deckers were aligned with different varieties from tuna to vegetables and classic grilled cheese. "I just, um, wanted to let you know that we do have tasty food in England, as well."
"It does look good," Ichika examined. He reached for the grilled cheese sandwich. "Okay, let me try this one…" He took a bite. At first, he seemed to enjoy it. It wasn't long until the taste combined with mayonnaise, cheese, and folded egg. His face changed to a gruesome blue.
"Good, yes?" Cecilia anticipated Ichika's response. "I do hope you like it! There's plenty more, so please eat as much as you want!"
"Oh," Ichika sweated. "Well, I'll have some later, okay?" He quickly came up with an excuse. "Let's see." He turned to his other friend. "Let's try Houki's next."
"Well," Houki slowly opened her bento. "This is what I brought." She revealed her box of rice on one side and meat, eggrolls, and broccoli on the other.
"Whoa!" Ichika was surprised. "That looks so good! You spent so much time with this!"
"Pika Pika!" Jolt inched closer to the delectable meal Houki had in her hands.
"I-I was already making some for myself," she played off, "so I made some for you too. I only spent time on it because it was just for me."
"I know, but it's still amazing. Thanks so much, Houki!" He reached out with his chopsticks and began feasting on her meatball. She smiled from her proud efforts.
"Now, for my lunch." Rai returned to his wrap from the start. Yami had a brown bag of taiyaki, and Kurumu with her cooked nuggets and side of rice.
"Is that really all you eat?" Kurumu questioned the assassin.
"…Yes," she replied.
"You should try other stuff instead of just fish." Yami shot a cold glare at the succubus. Her stare sent a shock down her back.
"What I eat is my decision…understood?"
"Y-Yeah…" Yami continued her lunch. Ichika enjoyed Houki's to the last flavor.
"This is seriously good!" He praised. Ichika grabbed a piece of meat and handed it to Jolt. "Want some, little guy?"
"Pikachu!" He nodded. He opened his wide mouth and bit onto the chopsticks. He savored the juicy meal. "Chaa~!" The other girls were becoming jealous.
"Aren't you gonna eat any, Houki?"
"Oh, no," she insisted. "I already ate the ones that didn't come out as well."
"Hmm?"
"Oh, I mean I'm fine." She waved her hands. "Honestly, I'm glad you like it. Please, enjoy the rest."
"You should have some, too." Ichika grabbed some more and held it in front of her face. "Here! Open wide!"
"Waaaaah!?" Cecilia and Rin screamed in unison. The other three ate their food and enjoyed the show.
"W…What are you doing?" Houki asked nervously.
"Come on," Ichika insisted. "Just one bite."
"O…Okay, then…" She blushed. She quickly nibbled the snack away and covered her mouth. "It is good." She giggled.
"I know, right? This fried chicken is really delicious."
"Oh no, it's not fried chicken, but it is good." The girls were left speechless.
"Oh, I believe I know what is going on here!" Charles realized. "You must be doing the famous 'say ah!' thing that Japanese couples do, am I right?"
"What gave that away?" Rai cocked an eyebrow.
"They just look as though they get along well."
"But why are they getting along so well?" Rin wanted an answer.
"I find this completely outrageous!" Cecilia agreed. "I demand a do-over!"
"I have an idea," Charles offered. "Why don't we all exchange one piece with each other? There's no problem if we all feed each other, no?
"No, I don't mind," Ichika agreed. Yami pulled out a fish and handed it to Jolt.
"Pika!" He jumped and grabbed the taiyaki.
"Well, I guess it's alright as long as Ichika doesn't mind," Rin approved.
"Normally, I wouldn't do anything that goes against the fundamentals of proper table manners," Cecilia concurred. "But, I suppose I should follow the old expression: When in Rome, do as the Romans do."
"Great!" Rai approved. "In that case, I want to try one of Cecilia's sandwiches." Rai reached for the basket.
"Hold it!" She retaliated. "No one is getting their hands on my food until Ichika gets his first!"
"Seriously?"
"She's just cranky because her stud muffin didn't want her goods," Kurumu sighed.
"I beg your pardon!" Cecilia's face grew red. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to?" Rin and Yami stared at one another. Yami looked down at her box of sweet & sour pork.
"…Why are you staring?" Rin asked.
"…May I try your lunch?" She asked.
"No, and quite looking at me like that. It makes me uncomfortable." Yami went back to eating. Rin noticed her meal. "Is that…taiyaki?" She paused. Yami looked back at her as she continued eating. Rin saw the lunch bag and slowly reached down to grab a piece.
Swish!
A blade stabbed between Rin's hand and Yami's bag.
"…" Yami stared at Rin. She slowly backed away.
"Raimundo," Charles spoke out.
"Hmm?" Rai replied. "What's up, Charles?"
"What exactly is that you are eating?" He pointed.
"This?" His burrito was filled with scrambled eggs and fried beans. The scent was a like a fresh breakfast being held in a warm grip. "Just something I whipped up this morning." He held it out. "You want a bite?"
"Really? Thank you so much!" Charles grabbed the wrap with both hands. He opened wide and bit down on the flour tortilla and soft taste. "It truly is delicious!" Some scrambled egg was hanging from his mouth.
"You, uh, got a little something right there." Rai snatched the small piece from his lips and tossed it over his shoulder. Charles began blushing.
"M-Merci, Raimundo…" He thanked. Kurumu and Jolt stared at Rai.
"…What?" Cecilia and Rin looked at their meals.
"Alright, eat my pork!" Rin quickly held her food by her chopsticks. "Try my sweet & sour pork now, Ichika!"
"Here, Ichika!" Cecilia held her food to him. "You'll love my sandwich spread!" Ichika was caught in the middle.
"Huh?" He blinked.
Evening
The night sky fell over the academy. In room 1963, Yami was digging through Kurumu's clothing and having them placed in the wardrobe by the bed. Jolt curled himself into a ball on the edge by Yami.
Bam! Bam! Bam!
Rai banged on the door.
"Kurumu!" Rai yelled. "Hurry up! You've been hogging the bathroom for an hour!" Rai tapped his foot with a towel, razor, and toothbrush in his hands. After sorting the clothes, Yami rested on the chair with a manual on the functions of an IS.
"It's obvious she won't be coming out," Yami deduced.
"I know. But, it's the only shower here besides the training arena. I'm not going down and risk getting caught in my birthday suit."
"Pika..." Jolt shuddered. Rai looked back at Yami.
"By the way, shouldn't you be in your pjs? It's pretty late."
"I don't own any sleepwear…" She flipped the page. "I hardly ever sleep since I'm always on high alert of my targets." She flipped the page. "I do, however, retain rest for a certain period."
"Wow, I did not know that." Rai scratched his chin. "Still, it looks uncomfortable if you're always wearing that."
"…I learn to manage." Rai thought for a moment. He walked over to his bag by the chair and peeked inside. He pulled out a shirt made of cotton and words printed on the front: I *heart* J P.
"Try this one." He handed her the shirt.
"…What is it?"
"One of my shirts. You can use that when you sleep so you don't have to wear your outfit. Just remind me when we go shopping to buy you some for yourself."
Knock-Knock!
A thump came from the door. "...?" He walked over and opened it. "Hello?"
"Raimundo!" Charles greeted him. "How are you?"
"Um, great. Doing great." Rai checked each direction. There was no one around in the halls. "What brings you here?"
"Well, Ichika and I just finished moving into our new room, and would like to know if you were interested in joining us."
"Sounds good." Rai looked back at the bathroom door. "…You got a shower at your place?"
"Why, yes…"
"…I'm in." Rai grabbed his pajamas and cellphone on the countertop. He turned to Yami. "I'll be back later, okay?"
"Very well…" She replied. "Be sure to come back for class tomorrow."
"You got it." Rai walked out and closed the door behind him. Yami stared back at the shirt in her hand. The bathroom door flew open as the steam rolled out from the shower.
"Woo, that felt great!" Kurumu cheered. She wiped her face with the towel. Her bath robe covered her body, but exposed her upper cleavage. "The bath's yours." She looked around the room. "Where's Rai…?" She paused for a second. She immediately noticed Yami in her new attire of only having a T-shirt that was oversized down to her thighs. It slumped over her right shoulder. "…What are you wearing?"
"…My sleepwear," Yami answered.
"You know, sometimes, I just don't get you."
Room 2015
Rai opened the door. He now had on his white t-shirt and sweat pants. His face was clear as though he took three years off his age. He dried his hair with the complementary towel left in the bathroom. When all was done, he returned the translator around his neck.
"Man, that was good," Rai spoke out. He made his way over by the bed while Charles and Ichika settled in their chairs. "Thanks for the shower, guys."
"Hey, no problem," Ichika answered. "I had the same problem when I first started here."
"Women can be somewhat occupied for certain reasons, no?" Charles chuckled weakly.
"Yeah," Rai replied. "But, it wouldn't be the first. I know this kid who has about five living at his house."
"Whoa, it must be tough on him," Ichika noted.
"You should see the laundry." Ichika handed Rai a small hot cup of tea. He leaned back in his chair and sighed restfully. A tiny stalk floated in Rai's tea.
"It sure is nice to hang out like this." Charles sipped his drink. He noticed the bitter taste from his traditional beverage.
"This is very different from European tea," Charles spoke. "It's not what I am used to, but it is still quite excellent." Charles and Rai both drank their tea. Rai checked the phone in his pocket. The silhouette of his scythe was on his main screen just underneath the time and date.
"...Five more minutes," Rai estimated.
"So, I understand you have been doing your IS training after school, Ichika. Would that be correct?"
"Yeah, but that's only because I'm way behind everybody else."
"So, would you mind if I started training with you? I have a personal machine too, so I think I'll be of some help."
"Charles is right," Rai added. "The extra training can come in handy. I can use some help myself with the flying. "
"That sounds like a great idea," Ichika agreed.
"No problem," Charles nodded happily. "And you, Raimundo?"
"Me?" Rai answered. "I'll ask Kurumu and Yami for flying lessons. But, combat with an IS will definitely be appreciated. That alright with you?"
"Just leave it to me!" Charles agreed. Rai felt a tingle run up his back.
…What the hell? Rai stared back at his drink. Why am I nervous around this guy…?
The Next Day
The class was taken aback by a new person standing in the room.
"Okay, class..." Ms. Yamada spoke. "I have yet another exciting announcement to make today. I'm about to introduce another new addition to our expanding classroom." She looked over to the short transfer student with long, silver and a black eye patch over her left eye. She had the same blazer as the girls, but her pants were baggy near her thigh and wore military boots up to her kneecaps. "Meet our newest transfer student from Germany, Laura Bodewig." The class talked among themselves.
"Just what is going on?"
"Five transfer students in only two days?"
"No matter how you look at it, it's very strange."
"Please be quiet now, everyone! Her introduction isn't over yet, so show some respect."
"Yes, go ahead, Laura," Chifuyu instructed. "Please finish."
"Ja, Mentor," Laura agreed.
Mentor? Ichika thought. So, that means when Chifuyu was in Germany she was… Laura turned back to the class.
"I am Laura Bodewig." The class grew silent.
"Um," Ms. Yamada asked. "Is that all…you wanted to say, Laura?"
"Ja, that all." She turned to Ichika. "And you must be…" She walked to him and raised her arm high.
SLAP!
Laura gave a back hand to Ichika across the face.
"Pika!?" Jolt panicked on Ms. Yamada's shoulder. The others watched in shock from Laura's action.
"I do not approve," Laura declared. Her red, right eye glared down at him. "In fact, I will never approve...that you are her brother!"
"What the hell is your problem!?" Kurumu shouted.
*Shine!*
The cell in Rai's pocket grew a bright red.
"Uh, Kurumu," Rai rose from his seat. "I don't think this is the best time!" Laura looked to the man in the next seat over.
"…Another IS male pilot?" Laura stared at him. Rai caught her attention.
"Uh, yeah, what are the odds, right?" She could see the light emanating from his pocket.
"…Warum?" She demanded. "Why have you returned, Reaper?" The class froze in shock. Yami and Kurumu looked at each other. Rai stood paralyzed knowing that his secret was out.
"Mauuu~!" Celine laughed as she watched the television. Rito was enjoying his time on the couch waiting for Mikan to finish.
"Rito!" Mikan called him. "Dinner is ready!"
"Okay," he replied. He took Celine away from the TV and into the kitchen. The others arrived around the dinner table. Lala next to Rito, Momo sitting across next to Nana, and Mikan at the end preparing to feed Celine.
"Yay!" Lala cheered. "Itadakimasu!"
"This look great, Mikan-san!" Momo praised her cooking. It was the standard meat and rice dinner.
"Thanks, Momo-san," Mikan smiled.
"Hey, hey," Nana warned them. "We can't be wasting time eating so much!"
"Eh?" Lala cried. "But it's so good!"
"She's right, Lala-san," Momo added. "We need to begin packing after dinner."
"Why is that?" Rito asked. Lala chugged down the last of her meal.
"That's right!" She cheered. "We're going back to Deviluke!"
-To Be Continued-
Well, that didn't go as planned. I expected to be putting my Christmas decorations up next week, but they started playing Christmas music at the mall! Anyway, all right's reserved and material used all belong to their respective owners.
Shizune: Check it out! We've got another transfer student! And she's the representative contender from Germany!
So, what else is new?
Kiyoka: She seems to have an unusual connection with Orimura. But, why is she acting so hostile towards him?
I bet he cheaped out at dinner once. Oh yeah, be sure to leave a comment and review!
Honne: And what is her relationship with Raimundo? What really happened to them in the past?
Well, he's not really part of their series. I doubt they have any history together.
Shizune: The story unfolds with so many mysteries! And it looks like some drama is going on with Charles as well!
Next Chapter: Your Roommate is a Young, Blonde Nobleman!
Shizune: And the secret of the beautiful boy will finally be revealed!
I knew it. He's not French; he's Polish!