Alright, alright, alright, between the debates and football upsets everywhere I have just been sidetracked so much with actually finishing this chapter, but its complete and I think you will enjoy what we got going on. Look to see Tsozin's nefarious plan take root, as well we will also see the romantic tensions really flare. As always, thanks for tagging along!
Chapter 8: Collateral Damage
Takumi continued his way towards the exit, with a hollow feeling. Thousands of thoughts and doubts filled his mind, but still managed to carry himself off with the little dignity he had left. He could never burn the flag of his nation, even if it meant disappointing his parents and sacrificing his life's ambition. For him, it was the last bit of honor he could hold onto after losing a match that showcased the very culture of Italy and losing outright as a pure blood. He did not want to see anybody at this point, he couldn't even imagine facing his parents; he just wanted to disappear from the world. As he walked towards the exit, he looked up and saw a familiar figure walking towards the arena floor. It was a tall, beautiful, girl with blonde hair being escorted by two men in black suits and shades. It was Erina.
Erina walked towards Takumi, and noticed the look on his face as he quickly shot his head down in shame. Although it didn't seem like her, Erina really did feel sorry for Takumi. Still, she had come to do something about all this craziness with Tsozin. As she walked passed Takumi, she paused for a moment and placed her hand on his shoulder as if to comfort him. She didn't say anything, but nodded in an attempt to reassure him this wasn't the end.
As Erina approached the announcement table, she grabbed the microphone quickly to stop the crowds from emptying the place. "Attention all students and staff at Totsuki Academy! I have important news regarding the state of affairs at Totsuki!"
The arena suspended all movement and commotion. If Erina had something to say, everyone paid attention. Her name and reputation was world renowned, and even so Tsozin peered over with an inquisitive look as well.
"I have a committee member of the official Ministry of Education. They are here to explain a recent ordinance passed down by the committee." Erina stated boldly, as she handed the microphone over to one of the men in a sharp black suit.
"Good evening students and faculty at Totsuki Academy. I am from the Ministry of Education. Totsuki Academy is a unique school that functions differently from normal institutions throughout Japan, and it is highly regarded all over the world. That being said, it still falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Education. A formal inquiry by the ministry and subsequent review by a committee has determined that Totsuki has not upheld national standards that supersede any private institutions rules and bylaws."
"Totsuki has an alarming rate of failure, and while this is mostly accepted as part of the curriculum, what isn't acceptable is the methods by which students are removed from the academy. The committee has determined that a recent ruling by the schools 'Elite Council' was passed without proper procedure as students, parents and faculty weren't given ample time to review the adjustments and implications to the schools rules."
"So what does this all mean? At the conclusion of the inquiry, and subsequent committee review, it has been determined a clause be added to the new school rule. By authority of the Ministry of Education the clause states: Any student within Totsuki that is challenged to a shokugeki in which the result would be an expulsion (regardless of the terms set or how said expulsion is achieved) during this period granted by the 'grace clause' is ordered to temporary suspension only. While under suspension, students may still live on campus and attend required course classes. Any student under suspension may not participate in any school extra activities or tournaments, or shokugeki challenges. This temporary suspension falls under a grace period until the end of the quarter, in which all students suspended will be reviewed by the school's board and determined if they are to be expelled or not."
"To simplify all this; the new school rule that the Elite Council passed is under temporary revision by the ministry. It will not be put into effect until the next quarter, however the schools bylaws allow for its execution, only instead of expulsion; temporary suspension. By the end of the quarter, any student suspended, will be reviewed and determined if they should be expelled. At the start of the next quarter, the rule that this clause applies to will be put into full effect and the clause will be lifted."
The room all stared blankly, as they scratched their heads in confusion. The man who was speaking handed the microphone over to Erina and proceeded to walk out towards the exit. Takumi managed to hear all of this, and felt a slight sense of relief. Still, the situation wasn't any good. All this new clause did was delay the inevitable. Takumi may not be expelled, but he was still suspended. If this rule doesn't get redacted, he could be permanently expelled. Hope it seems, was still fleeting for Takumi. Tsozin managed to make his way over to Erina, as he had a face of displeasure
Tsozin composed himself quickly and then postured himself in his usual arrogant manner. "I see you called in the ministry! I hope you know this changes nothing. You only delay the inevitable!"
Erina snapped a hard look back at Tsozin. "Sure did take some of the air of your ego though. The look on your face was worth it alone."
Tsozin began to laugh. "You think you have me worried? Hahahaha. You only give hope to these peasants. Hope that is held on by a sliver. I will crush hope from this school."
Erina clinched her fist and gritted her teeth. "Yeah, well then how about you face me right now you slime ball! I challenge you to a shokugeki!"
Tsozin looked back at Erina with a face of shock. His hands came up to grab his face as he quickly started to show a look of fright. "What!? Oh... oh no...!" Tsozin fumbled. "A Shokugeki versus the 'Golden Tongue' Erina Nakiri! Oh, no! Oh no! This can't be!" Tsozin started to exaggerate his mannerisms. In a mocking manner he began to act as if he was afraid.
"No. No. No. It can't be! My plans have been foiled! Hahahaha. How about no, Ms. Nakiri. I don't have to accept one bit, and I could care less what you offer. I am not interested in embarrassing the pride and joy of the cooking world and the Nakiri family." Tsozin mocked arrogantly.
Erina became visibly annoyed, and started to get red in the face with anger. "You dirty sleazeball! Not even a shred of decency to accept a challenge from someone who is actually better than you! You're a spineless coward. To think, you could be in a syndicate like the Yakuza. Pfft." Erina huffed out, trying to goad Tsozin.
"Golden tongue indeed! What sharp words Erina, but your insults mean very little to me.
Still, i'm curious to know why you believe I would ever involve myself with the Yakuza. That's a strong accusation, unfounded no doubt."
"Don't play coy you bastard! You aren't the only one with connections. If I wished, I could expose your entire family."
"Hehehe. So you think, only I wonder how daddy would feel? He just so happens to be my father's good friend. Even with your recognition, you'd never be able to pin anything on the Ikaharu name and all you'd do is embarrass your father tremendously. Im guessing daddy wouldn't be too thrilled with that, would he Miss Nakiri?" Tsozin said in a condescending tone, and smile of self pride.
Erina's rage silently started bubble under skin. It took every once of strength she could muster, from swinging a right hook at his face. Erina was visibly angry, and now she understood the power of Tsozin to get under peoples skin. If she was the "Golden Tongue" he undoubtedly would be the "Serpents Tongue." His charm and arrogance, could rattle the cage of even though most composed individuals, even one such as Erina. Before she could say anything else, a familiar voice interrupted them both.
"Hey you jerk! You are going to get what's coming to you, you slimy roach!" Yuki said out loud, as the entire polar star gang stood behind her.
"Oh? Who are you little shrimp? It doesn't matter, I don't concern myself with the opinions of lesser peasants. Goodbye fools, I look forward to the day you all get expelled, ahahaha!" Tsozin mocked as he left to go meet up with his two groupies.
"Erina, are you alright? You look upset. What did he say to you?" Yukihira asked sympathetically as he felt a slight anger at Tsozin.
"I'm fine, don't worry about me. You should go be with Takumi now. I can't imagine how he feels." Erina stated, as she composed herself and headed towards the exit. Quickly Yukihira followed behind her, as he told the rest of the gang to be with Takumi.
The rest of the gang quickly made their way to Takumi. As they met up with Takumi, he didn't acknowledge them. The depressing aura he was emitting, took the words away from them. They all gathered around him and quietly bowed their heads in assurance. As they all exited away from the arena, the gang decided to direct him back towards the dormitory.
Yukihira on the other hand was following Erina, shyly trying to figure out how to approach Erina after she looked so upset with Tsozin. Yukihira wondered if Erina noticed he was following her, only to have his question answered.
"What do YOU want?" Erina snapped.
"Oh, I just wanted to make sure you were okay. Tsozin can probably say some horrible things."
"I'll be fine! Don't worry about me."
"I'm sure you will be, but I can't stand seeing people I care about upset and hurt by others." Yukihira blurted out.
Erina stopped, and blushed slightly before composing herself. "If that's true than why aren't you with Takumi right now? He clearly needs more support than me!"
"Takumi has the whole group with him! I wanted to make sure you were okay!" Yukihira smiled.
Erina looked at him as she continued to walk towards her limousine parked outside the arena. She had impressive control over her emotions to suppress the slight warmth she felt by Yukihira's honest concern. Still, she was upset by Tsozin and was brooding over how to overcome her predicament. She couldn't do anything. Much like Damian, her hands were tied in this affair. If she tried to get involved, the repercussions if it back fired would be too great to mention. Furthermore, Tsozin was too crafty and probably had this planned from the start. With Damian and Erina out of the picture, Tsozin was holding all the cards. As Erina made her way to the limo, she did something that even she didn't fully expect.
"Yukihira, would you like to accompany me back to the mansion?" Erina let out, before she could catch herself.
Yukihira was bewildered. Did Erina really just say that? It didn't matter, this was an opportunity he couldn't refuse. "Yeah, I would like that." Yukihira said happily, trying to contain his overwhelming joy.
Back at the polar star dorm, the gang all settled in and gathered around in the living room. Akira went back to Jun's place, hoping to devise a new strategy, and plan the next move against Tsozin. Megumi, Ryō, Yuki, Ryōko, Zenji, Nikumi, Satoshi, Alice and Takumi all sat in the den area as Fumio delivered a large pot of tea. The room was dead silent, and full of tension as Takumi sat blankly in a chair staring out the window. Nikumi was also slightly bummed out as once again Yukihira went chasing after Erina.
Unsure of what to say, Yuki opened up trying to break the ice. "I'm sorry Takumi! You totally had Tsozin beat, but its clear the match was rigged in his favor. It's just not fair!"
Takumi shrugged and didn't say anything, leaving Yuki sitting in silence.
"You see, this is what Damian tried to warn us about Tsozin. His tactics are just underhanded at best. What can we do now?" Zenji asked openly.
"What can we do? He can rig the match at all angles, there has to be a plan of attack somewhere in all of this." Ryōko stated.
"This is how Tsozin operates. He openly skirts the rules, and is untouchable. Despite what has happened so far, it was a miracle Erina brought in the Ministry to all of this. This gives us until the end of the year to stop all this! Takumi may still yet be avenged." Satoshi answered.
"Don't worry Takumi, we will avenge you! We will figure something out, and stop Tsozin. Hang in there!" Megumi stated passionately.
"What hope is there? Even if you do manage to stop all this, and beat Tsozin at his own game; The damage has been done. Tsozin and anyone who assists him can ruin the pride and reputation of students. The damage is already done, perhaps its best I just accept my fate." Takumi mumbled grimly.
"Don't say that Takumi! If we beat Tsozin, we can expose all of this as a scam and redeem everyone. If the world sees all the cheating that defiled the spirit of competition, anyone who was defeated will be exonerated. We will figure this out!" Alice said.
"You speak of hopes and pipe dreams. The damage has been done. I need to be by myself." Takumi said as he stood up, and headed to one of the open rooms to wallow in sadness.
"I feel bad for him. It must have been a terrible feeling to be paraded in front of the world like that." Megumi said softly.
Ryō was temporarily brooding over the events he just witnessed. In his mind, the weak would always be outed by the stronger, yet what happened to Takumi began to make him rethink his position. On one hand, in his mind, Tsozin was stronger because he played the match better than Takumi; yet on the other hand, Tsozin cheated, and undermined the honor in the battle. What glory is there in the being the strongest, if it means that you become like Tsozin? Ryō has always looked to be the very best, still if competing fiercely leaves you robbed of honor and dignity; why fight to be the best?
"I think i'm going to go the market and get some stuff for dinner. Like always, a good dinner might cheer him up! Who wants to join me?" Yuki asked, as she tried to be enthusiastic.
"Zenji, Ryōko, Satoshi, and Nikumi all volunteered to go out with Yuki. They all knew that the only way cheer up Takumi, is to fix him a proper meal and just give him company while he sorts through everything. The gang gathered up their stuff and headed out towards the market. Meanwhile, Megumi, Alice and Ryō all stayed put.
As the gang left, Alice kept thinking to herself. Without any notice, she got up and headed towards where Takumi was. This left Megumi slightly blushing as she realized it was just her and Ryō in the same room. She started to grow nervous, as she was unsure of what to say to him. He looked deep in though and concentration, but this could be the opportunity for her to get closer to him.
"Uh... He...He...Hey...Ryō? What are y...you...thinking about?" She nervously mumbled.
Ryō looked up with a droopy expression on his face. "Huh? What? Where did everyone go?"
"Alice went to go check on Takumi, and the others went out to the market to get some stuff to make dinner." Megumi answered shyly, as she fidgeted with her hands.
"Hmm. Oh." Ryō replied.
"You looked deep in thought, is everything okay?" Megumi asked innocently.
"Huh? Yeah, everything is fine. I'm just mulling over what happened to Takumi. He won't be the first, and the first of December is tomorrow. If Tsozin continues this charade, by next year the rule will be permanent. I'm not sure how to think about it anymore." Ryō said, as he crossed his arms. He didn't know why, but usually he was more reserved when not around Alice. For some reason he couldn't understand why he was being so open towards megumi.
"I think it's just horrible. Tsozin doesn't seem to care about honor, or pride in being a chef. He just wants others to see him as the top chef, and nothing else. No manner of decency or honesty could overcome him. It's just sickening." Megumi said bluntly, with a hint of sureness.
Ryō looked at Megumi with a thoughtful expression. Could it be, that this is how others saw him? After all, Ryō was known for doing all he could to be the best chef. He always believed the strongest competitor was the victor, and the being number one was all that mattered. Yet, here was Tsozin a guy who was clearly number one to everyone. The lack of admiration or honor for him made it seem as if there was no reason to aspire to be like Tsozin. Ryō looked down and asked. "Tsozin is a corrupt villain though. If he beat Takumi fairly, wouldn't it be more respectable then?"
"No! Tsozin's only concern is being number one. He doesn't care who he brushes aside, as long as he is number that is all that matters. His purpose is just for everyone to accept who he is, and that is just horrible. A true chef, wouldn't care only about being the best. They would showcase themselves to inspire others to be just like them. They'd invite a challenge and never parade their glory for others to envy. That is why Tsozin is a lousy person. He believes being number one gives him respect, and praise; yet it only serves for him to be hated and disdained."
Ryō's core now became conflicted. There was truth to Megumi's words that Ryō couldn't ignore. His desire to be number was all that he concerned himself with. Since he was young, being number one was about survival. If he wasn't the best, then he'd never be satisfied. However, Tsozin challenged his beliefs. Look at all that Tsozin had to do to become number one, and in the end there was no praise or respect for him. Ryō began to feel uneasy as all his ambition and passion was drained away by the realization that he could become just like Tsozin if he continued on his current path. Although he'd never cheat, or lie to gain the upper hand; he wouldn't care who he defeated, or what lengths he had to go to win. Even if he became the best his way, everyone would only see a bitter bully and not the genuine man who wanted to prove he was good enough to survive. Ryō began to feel incredibly queasy, as his whole world had been shaken up by Megumi. For the first time, Ryō wasn't sure he liked who he was. Without thinking, he muttered. "Am I bad man?"
Megumi looked at him with a confused face, then said in a concerning tone. "I don't think so. If you think your like Tsozin, you're dead wrong!"
"But I've heard what others have said about me. Before, I never paid attention to it. Now it all seems so relevant. I am Ryō: the 'Mad Dog' 'The Food Devil'" Ryō said.
For the first time, Megumi saw Ryō as a vulnerable man. For her, he always had a dark aura around him. In this moment, she knew exactly what to say. While Ryō had his emotional walls and barriers down, she'd comfort him with truth. The dark aura was gone, and now Megumi's gentleness would win over.
"Ryō, you are a misunderstood man. I don't think you are bad. You have no reason to be. You grew up in a ugly part of the world, and made that world your entire reality. It was dark, and to survive you yourself had to become dark. That's where it ends though. You have friends who care about you now. The world you live in now is different then where you came from. I believe you are good man." Megumi said softly and honestly.
Megumi's words pierced Ryō's soul. Flashbacks to his past ran through his mind. He felt himself more vulnerable than ever, and for the first time he saw Megumi clearly. She was beautiful to him. There he was, a small boy backed up in a corner with a fierce look in his eye. He had fought off all the would be predators, but he was still alone. Out of the shadows, an angel stretched out her hand to comfort the boy. The angel was Megumi, and for the first time Ryō looked into her yellow eyes and felt a feeling he recalled to the first time he met Alice. As he felt that feeling again, he also noticed her white flower hair pin in her hair; when he looked at this and the cute expression on Megumi's face Ryō became flushed with embarrassment. Suddenly his dark walls overcame him, and this strong emotion he was feeling frightened him. In an inexpiable moment of anger he jumped back from Megumi.
"Get away from me! You don't know what you're talking about! Leave me alone!" Ryō shouted in his dark angry voice, as he rushed quickly out the door. He didn't know why he did that, and as soon as he left he felt an overwhelming amount of guilt. His emotional defense kicked in unexpectedly and shut out Megumi. It's not what Ryō really wanted, but that feeling he felt when he looked at Megumi's hair pin made him feel something he never felt before. It scared him, and now he was unsure what to do.
Megumi hung her head in shock. She wasn't sure what to do. She wanted to run after him, and apologize or figure out what happened. It seems the tables turned on her though, as she was influenced by Ryō's darkness. For the first time, she despised someone. In her heart, she so willingly opened her hand to Ryō and the 'mad dog' bit her. She didn't want to feel this way, but the overwhelming darkness overcame her thoughts and she sat in despair as she felt no more remorse for Ryō, but resentment and even hate.
Yukihira was sitting next Erina in her limousine staring out the window. His hand placed on the empty middle seat, was very close to Erina's. She was sitting next to the door with her arms folded and her eyes closed, as she still seemed to be brooding over what Tsozin has said to her. Yukihira had sat silently the whole ride to her mansion. The limousine finally stopped outside the mansion, and the chauffeur opened up Erina's door to let her and Yukihira out.
As Yukihira was lead into the mansion by Erina, the maids and house staff were all diligently working. Erina lead him into the parlor where there was a fireplace and a piano, several couches and ornate rugs and wall paintings. She invited Yukihira to sit as a maid brought out hot tea and set it on a coffee table in front of them.
"Wow, this place is so huge Erina!" Yukihira said, trying to break the ice.
"It's not mine, it's my father's home. It actually belonged to my grandfather, but now my father uses it only when he visits the school." Erina stated.
"So wait, you have another house!?" Yukihira asked.
"We have three. My family travels a lot and is well known around the world. Sometimes they travel for a very long time, so its easier to stay at a home than a common hotel or something."
"Wow, you really like a princess Erina!" Yukihira said joyfully.
Erina felt slightly perturbed at the statement and sharply said "I am not a princess! I am normal person like everyone else!"
"I meant no offense, haha." Yukihira said with a nervous smile as he waved his hands in surrender.
"Oh. Well, yes it does seem like a bit much." Erina commented.
"It must have been crazy growing up. Always having fancy people around, and people to serve you at any time."
"It wasn't everything. If it weren't for Hisako, id be a much different person."
"Hey Erina, I don't mean to be intrusive but with all that you have; why do you want to be a chef? I mean, your grandfather is legendary and you have the 'Golden Tongue.' You are already well known and respected in the culinary world, why aspire to be a chef as well?"
"Yes. It does seem odd for someone who seemingly has everything, to aspire to be a chef. When I was growing up, there was a man who used to cook meals for me when I was younger. My grandfather invited him over from time to time, to help build my skill. The way he cooked, it was inspiring. He used so many different techniques, and unorthodox methods with ingredients; it really challenged my palate to the max. The food he made was the best, world class. He stopped showing up one day, but I know that one day I'll be as good as him and I want to return the favor and deliver him the best dish he's ever been served."
"Wow, this chef was world class and better than you? That's amazing! It reminds me of my father. It's because of him that I want to be a chef, and surpass him someday. He makes the very best food, and no matter how hard I try I can never quite match him. Still, I know that I can't give up and that's why I am here. He requested that I come here to improve myself, so that someday I can beat him."
"That is bizarre. Yukihira, you came from a simple diner; to even be considered to Totsuki your father must have had some connections. A simple diner chef, who has ties to Totsuki... who has that kind of life. Any graduate of Totsuki, would never end up being a simple diner chef!" Erina stated as she pondered. She never really cared that much about Yukihira's past, but now that he had opened up to her and mentioned it; it became very apparent that his admission was very strange.
"Yeah, I was pretty shocked myself when he told me I had to come here. He never mentioned it before until he dropped me off. Apparently he knew Damian's father while they went to school together. Apparently they still keep in touch." Yukihira rambled.
"Yukihira, what's your dad's name?" Erina interjected. She was now very curious as to how Yukihira entered Totsuki, and how a simple diner chef could make it into the top three! Who was his sponsor, and what kind of chef comes from Totsuki just to run a simple diner?
"Uh... my father? Haha. Jōichirō. He's pretty weird, but everything I know about cooking comes from him." Yukihira said nervously.
Erina openly dropped her jaw at the news. At first she didn't believe it, and thought it was only a coincidence. As she recalled all the moments she saw Yukihira in action, it clicked. The face, the hair, the eyes, the mannerisms. It all made sense now. Yukihira is the son of Jōichirō, the greatest chef she ever knew. That was why he was so talented, that is why he was so unknown, and now everything she thought about him got jumbled up. Before she could even collect her thoughts, she blurted out. "Get out!"
"What? What's wrong?" Yukihira asked innocently.
"Go away. Now!" Erina said hastily as she felt overwhelmed with random thoughts and emotions. A butler came to escort him out, as Erina signaled for him to be taken by car. Yukihira was very confused at what just happened. He was finally able to make small talk with Erina, and get to know her and then suddenly she wanted him gone. He was beginning to think that getting a girlfriend wasn't going to be easy.
Alice quietly opened the door to the room Takumi happened to be sitting in. It was a room that nobody in the dorm was using, so it wasn't a problem that he was there. Alice could see Takumi was staring out the window blankly as if all the spirit in his body was depleted and he was just a shell of a man.
"Hey, Takumi? Are you doing alright?" Alice asked innocently.
Takumi acted as if he didn't hear, and continued to stare out the window.
Alice huffed and puffed her cheeks slightly, before she asked again in a stern voice. "Hey. Takumi! I just want to make sure you're doing alright. The gang is out shopping for food for dinner tonight. Are you planning on staying here tonight, or are you going to go home?"
Takumi looked down, and really wanted to be left alone but decided to answer as he felt that a battle with Alice is one he couldn't deal with right now.
"No, I'm not hungry. I can't go home, I am going to stay here for a while." He said bluntly.
"Why can't you go home? Your family didn't disown you or anything did they?" Alice asked bluntly.
"No. No. I just can't face them right now. My brother explained the situation to them and they understand, but I my family name is known all throughout Italy. My parents have enough shame cast upon them, they don't need me hanging around making it worse. My brother is spending time with them since they came all the way to Japan." Takumi sighed.
"So, just because you're an Aldini everyone in Italy will have some judgement against your parents and their restaurant?"
"In Italy, pride is everything. Your family is your blood, and your blood is the highest form of pride. Family sticks together, and if one member of the family does something disgraceful; it carries throughout the rest of the family. Much like the mafia, your family defines who you are."
"So, people will judge your family because of what happened today?"
"Italy's national pride was involved, of course they will be judged. I lost in a cultural battle, as a member of a prominent family in Italy. Until I regain my family's honor, it's best I stay away from them."
Alice felt bad for Takumi, and just looking at him slumped in the chair hopeless and lost, resonated within her. She may not have been in a situation like one he was facing, but she thought to herself about how to make him feel better. Hearing Takumi's woes, made her feel a connection that she didn't have anyone else. It was more than empathy or sympathy, but understanding.
"I know you don't wanna be bothered right now, and I can't even begin to claim I know how it feels. Still, I know what you're dealing with. To everyone, I am Alice Nakiri; Cousin to the famous Erina Nakiri, and granddaughter of the legendary Senzaemon Nakiri. My mother Leonora is world renowned for her beauty and advancements of cooking techniques in the culinary world. No matter where I am, or what I do, I am judged because of my name. As a Nakiri, there are expectations I have to meet or suffer as you say. It also works the other way as well, sometimes people will treat me differently because of my name. They think I am where I am because of namesake only, and not the long dedication I put into my craft. I love my family, but sometimes its a a shackle that holds you down. I know you love your family, but this whole mess came about because it wasn't about you Takumi. It was about your namesake."
Takumi turned his head from the window to look at Alice. He was hearing her words as they stuck in his mind. What she was saying was true, and undeniable. It was because of his family name that he was in this predicament. It was because he was an Aldini he had his pride challenged, and it was because he was an Aldini he lost his mezzaluna. It was his name that caused his grief. He also felt conflicted at her words too. Takumi loved his family, and even more his brother Isami.
To Takumi, family meant a lot. His pride also meant a great deal him. Yet, he didn't want to be judged based on these merits. If he was good, it was because of Takumi. If he loses, its not because of Aldini.
Alice continued. "I know things are bad right now, its a shocking wake up call to go through these things. You have to remember that you are a good chef though! You are one of the top in our class and both of your defeats came at the hands of scummy cheaters! You know damn well its not fair or right how you ended up where you are. You still have to swallow your pride, and move forward. We are going to find a way to help you regain your honor. I know what's its like to just be known as a name. I don't want that for you." Alice said passionately.
Takumi's eyes looked at Alice as she was giving her pep talk. Takumi looked into her red eyes that were accented by her eye liner. Her pearl white skin, and snow white hair was beautiful to behold. He also couldn't help but notice her large bust as well. Takumi's pride was shattered, but he knew he had to keep fighting. His pride may have been diminished severely, but he was still Takumi and a great chef. He knew the pain would take time to heal, but for his families sake he would find a way to restore their name.
The gang was on their way back from the market happily walking and ready to make tonight's meal. They would be making dim sum, with salty rice balls and chicken friend rice! As they were walking along in their group, they didn't notice that Hayami and Mitsuru where in the area as well.
"Isn't that the little bitch who insulted my dear Tsozin!? I oughtta rip her pretty lips off!" Hayami said sharply.
"Hey, that blonde haired girl. She looks familiar. Isn't that the broad we saw with Yukihira earlier?" Mitsuru asked.
"Yeah, it is! Those must be Yukihira's friends! I say now is a perfect opportunity to carry out the plan." Hayami said with excitement.
The two walked over towards the group, and loudly announced their presence to them.
"Well, how did your friend Takumi fare today, hmm?" Hayami said arrogantly.
"It really was surprising to see Takumi Aldini rip off his jacket in shame, ahaha!" Misturu goaded.
"You shut your mouth! I don't know who you two are, but that Tsozin guy is a cheater and a loser! Takumi would have won if it were a fair match!" Yuki said sharply, defending her friend.
"What did you say you little bitch? Hayami sharply said back, getting closer to her face.
"You heard me! Tsozin is a no good, rotten, cheater!" Yuki mocked.
"What!? Why... you! Do you know who you are messing with punk!" Hayami screamed in anger.
"Calm down, dear Hayami! She's just some little brat who doesn't know anything. She is probably some pipsqueak who barely scrapped by to get into this academy." Mitsuru teased.
"What!? How dare you! I am more talented than both of you! You guys probably sniff Tsozin's underwear your so lame." Yuki blurted out, as she pulled down her bottom eye lid and stuck out her tongue.
"Yuki no!" Satoshi shouted in panic.
"Did you hear that everyone?" Mitsuru announced loudly as he pulled out his phone which had recorded the conversation. "'I am more talented than both of you!' It appears, young Miss Yuki believes she is better than two members of the Elite Council. Sounds to me like we were just challenged? What do you think Hayami?"
"Yes... This little brat challenged us and I believe we most definitely accept this challenge. Oh, wait. We're Elite Council members which means, we can make this a shokugeki! I guess it's little miss bitch... Whoops! I mean, Yuki versus Mitsuru Kobayashi and Hayami Morimoto." Hayami agreed.
"Don't you think its unfair though? The two of us versus just one lousy first year? We have to at least make this a fair match-up!" Mitsuru said boldly.
"I won't let you guys pick on Yuki like that! I'll face you guys as well you two cronies will get beat all the same!" Zenji interjected.
"Well there you have it then! A shokugeki team showdown! Hayami Morimoto and Mitsuru Kobayashi versus Yuki Yoshino and Zenji Marui!"
There is your dose of romance for you! I know the romantic dialogue is cheesy and straightforward, but hey i'm not a romance novelist haha. So I am always willing to answer any questions you have, and from now on any commentary on chapters from here on out will be addressed in the next chapter! Your criticism and other notable feedback ideas really helps me do better at this altogether! I really wish everyone would leave comments, and believe me I will respond to all them. In the next chapter, we will get the details of the shokugeki, more romance plot, and some more answers to fan comments! Thank you all so much for reading my fanfic, stay tuned!
Alright, this is an initial question for those that are readers of this fanfic. I want to start writing a truly original work, that has no ties to any story that I currently know of. I could use some ideas for tags to use in this original work to get more readers to check it out. Also, after this fanfic has concluded I want to start more anime related fanfics as well as a co-op fan fiction that writes itself based off use input. PM me with anything referring to this part with your ideas