Diclaimer: Don't own IS
Ch6 I name thy the Eye of the Sky! Reunion!
Hikari o kazashite tamerai o keshita
Ichika was in a middle of a forest.
Aitakatta no wa
The air around was cool and misty from the morning haze and the forest was empty except for him.
Mirai de naiteru yoru
The forest was a small area in IS Gakuen that was there for the students to jog or to have a walk.
Daita mama nageki o sakende
He was in a simple white jogging outfit and an Ipod on his hand.
Fumiireta ashi o. Tooku risou ga sotto iyashite yuku
He was listening to the song titled 'Oath Sign' by LISA.
Tashika na kizuna o tsuyoku nigiri susumou doko made mo
As he softly sang along with the song, he kept on a steady pace as he jogged. His face was drenched in sweats and his body was warm. He took out a small yellow towel from his pocket to swipe some sweat off his eye and his head.
The moment, he put the towel on his remaining left eye,
His danger sense tingled.
(Shash!)
He instinctively stopped and jumped back to avoid an ambush.
In front of him was Sanada Yukihana in a black ninja outfit with her hands in the 'tora' seal.
"Ichika-dono! I have you now! Prepare for an honorable DUEL! Degozaru!" she shouted as she jumped kicked him.
Ichika sidestepped the kick to send his own attack. He quickly threw a jab at her opened side, but Yukihana bent her body to the other side to avoid a hasty punch. She then slide her feet to form a horse stance so she would not fall down at her sudden movement.
"What are you doing so early, Sanada Yukihana? Also what's with the outfit?" Ichika asked her.
"To attack an enemy at their weakest and most vulnerable moments may be unfair, but an ideal strategy for battle! You, Ichika-dono, are too strong, so I Sanada Genjiro Yukihana decided to try a different tactic than normal! Also this stealth outfit was from my good friend Sarutobi Kasuga degozaru!" the brown haired air head told him.
Ichika sweat dropped at the ridiculous outfit. Were those outfits really useful? He was caught off guarded so he guessed that they had their uses.
"Well, Sanada Yukihana…since you're here, let's get this early morning party started! WAR DANCE!" He shouted out as he performed a spin kick.
"Oraaaa! Yukihana cried out as she too performed her own spin kick.
Their kicks clashed.
The once quiet forest was now filled with battle cries and sound of destruction.
(Ichika POV)
"That Yukihana…she is annoying, but in a good way." I muttered as I nursed a bruise on my arm. I was walking to the class idly and slowly.
Because of that fight at the forest, I wasted a lot of time. I only had enough time to took a shower. Using up my strength like that of course I'm hungry, but thanks to her I had to skip breakfast.
"Damn her…I will hit her hard next time."
"It seemed like you were having fun thou master." said a voice feminine next to me.
Next to me was Masurao's human form.
It seems that my IS had upgraded to a level beyond even Tabane's expectations. In order to keep up with my mentality and will, Masurao gained several functions to serve me better. One of them was this hologram projection. While she was a hologram, whatever she does can be 'felt' by me through our mental connection. For example if she was to hang on to my shoulder, then I can 'feel' a weight on my shoulder, but others wouldn't feel anything.
"Yeah, I did enjoy the fight Masurao, but that doesn't mean it had to be so early. Unlike you I need to eat to feel better, you on the other hand only needs to rest to recharge the GN-Particle level to feel ok again."
Since her mishap last time against Cecilia, Masurao's power was low. She had to convert to energy save mode to stay active.
At her power-save mode, she looks like a ten year old version of Chifuyu Nee with several differences such as her eye and hair color. I had to resist the urge to bear hug the mini Chifuyu Nee when I saw her like that for the first time.
"At least you won't be late for class, my master."
"I guess you are right. The first class today is an outdoor one…this will be interesting."
I walked into the locker room to change.
When I was about to change, I turned around.
"…Masurao…"
"Yes master?"
"Why are you here?"
"I am always near you master."
"I meant, why are you here in the changing room, watching me change?"
"…I can't?"
"No."
"…"
"…"
"Masurao, my loyal servant, I command you as your master dematerialize until I am done changing, and no peeking." I said with my hand raised, facing my dragon arm guard at her.
She made a cute pout.
"Mooo…Master you are a meanie. _"
She vanished in red light.
I quickly changed.
By the time I walked out of the locker, all the girls were in the open field for the lesson.
Chifuyu was our teacher today. Super.
"Orimura! What are you walking idly about! Get over here now!"
"Hai, hai Nee-chan…don't be so angry-"
"Pang!"
"Call me Orimura-sensei" she yelled.
I nursed my bump as I gathered around her with the other students.
"You ok Orimura kun?" asked one of the girls.
"I am fine; sadly, I am used to her tough love." I replied in a tired voice.
"Well then, let's start practicing some basic IS maneuvers. Orimura, Alcott, try flying with your ISs."
Cecilia perked up as her name was called. It seems she is ok after a good night of sleep.
"Hurry up! A properly trained pilot doesn't need more than a second to deploy the IS."
After being prompted, I started to concentrate.
Once the IS is optimized, it will remain with the pilot in the form of a decoration. Cecilia's is an earring on her left ear, and mine is an arm guard.
I focused on Masurao to call upon her. It wasn't working.
"You better concentrate!"
Damn it, I'll get beaten up next time.
I stretched my right arm out, and used my left hand to grab it.
It still didn't work.
"Ok, That's it! Masurao what is wrong with you?" I yelled at my arm guard.
"Orimura! Yelling at your IS won't work! Concentrate to…"
She was interrupted by a voice from my arm.
"NO! Master you said not to materialize so I won't!" came a pouting voice of Masurao.
"Masurao, I told to give me some privacy, not to shut me out!"
I can hear a raspberry from the guard.
"Hummp, I don't wanna! Masurao is upset at master!"
"M.A.S.U.R.A.O!" I yelled at her.
"Orimura…what is going on?' Chifuyu-Nee asked.
"Nothing, just this girl being stubborn out of nowhere."
I tried to tap at the guard to make her activate.
"Masurao, it is time for our lesson, I don't have time for your silly games."
"Hummp! Master was a Meanie so I am not going to help Master!"
"Was asking for you to not to watch me changing such a tough ordeal?"
"What is the point of hiding it? I feel you all the way when you use me whenever you want!" Her poor choice of words made the other girls imagine… certain things quite vividly.
"You in armor mode, is different from peeking at me naked!"
"Why? I know your body and mind better than anyone."
"Orimura! What is going on here?"
"Don't yell Nee-chan, you'll hurt your voice." I told her.
I earned myself a smack for that.
"Hey! Don't hit my Master you hag!"
Suddenly Masurao came out in her adult from with her hakama outfit.
"What the!" exclaimed Nee-chan in surprise
"Haaa…Nee-chan meet Masurao, Masurao be more respectful to Nee-chan." I told them.
"Orimura…this is…"
"Yeah, she is my IS in human form. This is my IS, Masurao." I declared.
"!" exclaimed the students.
"How is this possible?"
"IS can do that?"
I never heard about this!"
"Is it me or does she looks like Chifuyu-sama?"
"Yeah, the red hair is a nice touch thou." (a red head can be misinterpreted.)
"And the red eyes!"
The girls went into a frenzy chat mode.
I turned to my sister.
"I take it your IS having such form and able to materialize is not normal?" I asked in a defeated tone.
"This has never been recorded before...how is this possible?" answered Chifuyu in a shocked tone.
"She told me it was to get to know each other better and to synch better, after all just knowing one's name, doesn't make one a close friend."
I turned to Cecilia.
"So I take it that Blue Tear doesn't wake you up or talks to you in dreams?"
She seemed startled by my sudden focus on her.
"I-Ichika san! I-I...No! I mean, no. I never have seen anything like this before."
I turned to Masurao who was glaring at Chifuyu-Nee. Man, these two look alike.
"See Masurao, why don't you behave like Blue Tear?"
She turned to me with annoyed look.
"Hummp! Master, why should I be like that loser, Blue Tears. I am the strongest IS! I don't need to do anything an IS that lost to me can do. Honestly she is inferior in terms of spec to not even able to make a hologram device for herself." She said in a Oujou-sama tone...it seems she can pull that off too.
"...Fine! But Masurao, we are in a middle of practice, so come on."
"…Ok, my master."
She jumped into the air and landed behind me. Her large red and black robe flapped around me and she hugged me from behind. Her bust on the back of my head and she put her face into my hair.
I suddenly felt a lot of killing intent coming from the crowd. Houki's and Chifuyu-Nee's glare was extra spicy.
"This Masurao…your loyal servant stands by your side."
She whispered and kept hugging as she turned into light. Then out of the blue, a blast of red mist surrounded me and I was in a twister of red mist.
(to occur means that something happens, so "a red mist occurred to me" means "a red mist happened to me". "A red mist surrounded me" is better in this context)
My body instantly became lighter, and all sorts of sensors started being linked to my consciousness, which raised my line of sight. In the blink of an eye, my body was equipped with the IS [Masurao] and was floating about 10cm above the ground.
I stepped out of the mist in my crimson and black armored glory.
"Little too flashy, but I don't mind it my Masurao." I said in my teasing tone.
"Alright! Alcott! Where is your IS!" barked my sister.
Cecilia too quickly equipped with her own IS [Blue Tears] as she floated. The BITs that were destroyed by me during our battle were already completely repaired.
"Okay, fly." She commanded.
After Chifuyu-nee said that, Cecilia immediately got into action. She quickly rose up and stopped high above the ground.
"Orimura! What are you waiting for?"
I simply stared at Cecilia flying up ahead and suddenly from my back and my side armor skirt came out a torrent of GN-Particles. The crimson lights pushed me up into the sky like a angry red bullet. I blasted past Cecilia in a matter of seconds.
"What are you waiting for Cecilia? I'll leave you behind." I teased.
"Ichika-san, how mean" Cecilia pouted in response.
However, it was expected that I was faster, after all Masurao was built for extreme high speed combat.
To pilot a flying IS requires imagination of pyramid to point toward the direction, however for this Doukugan Ryu such things are mundane. I am a man, who has always imagined my future as a soaring dragon, after all a silly pyramid is no substitute for a mighty one eyed dragon.
My unit was truly the fastest. Its PIC was so highly spec that it maintained my reckless flying perfectly. Thanks to the Anti-gravity features of the PIC, my balance was top notch.
I flew across the sky like a bird searching for a prey. From below I must look like a red ball of light that was like a small flying insect, too fast to keep track of. I left a red trail of light for others to see my previous locations and like how Cecilia experienced, the lights of the particles can distract the pilots when they must track me with faulty IS sensors, thanks to the GN-particles, Akakiri and Akakami.
I was flying at a fast pace, but I noticed how smooth Cecilia's flying was. Unlike my fast turns and angular movements, her movements were more…graceful?
Suddenly I remembered something.
I slowed down and flew right next to her. My crimson mist and hairs got between us and formed a ball of light around us. I turned off the Akakami's anti-communication features so all communication jamming was turned off.
"Hey Cecilia!"
"Hai?"
"We never really spoke properly since the battle and the classroom huh."
"I believe so." Cecilia answered confused. "Cecilia, you are the latest person to give me such a hard time in fight, in a long time. Not only that, you actually made it a draw. I got to say that was impressive, because ever since I got my title as Doukugan Ryu, I never lost a fight."
She was blushing out of nowhere. Is she ok?
"I-I…Of course! I am Cecilia Alcott after all. Ho ho ho ho…"
I smiled.
"I think you deserve a title as well."
"A title?"
"Yeah, when I defeated Yukihana, for the first time about a year ago, I given her the title as Kai no Waka Tora. It kind of stuck with her, but she doesn't mind. As a worthy opponent I believe you deserve a title."
"…"
"I got it!"
"Your title will be…Sora no Mei." I told her proudly.
"Sora…no Mei?" she repeated.
"Yeah, you are an amazing sniper, while I managed to dodge them, your shots were really accurate. I think a fancy name like Eye of the Sky is perfect for you."
"Eye of the Sky…" she muttered softly, suddenly she smiled.
"Very well Ichika-san, I am from now on Cecilia Alcott the Eye of the Sky." She declared.
I smiled at her happy look. I also wondered when we started to use our first names.
"ICHIKA! HOW LONG ARE YOU GOING TO KEEP FLYING UP THERE! HURRY UP AND GET DOWN!"
An angry shout could be heard from the communicator. Looking closely, far, far below on the ground was Houki, who snatched the speaker from Yamada-sensei, while looking completely flustered. On a side note, my vision could be compared to that of a telescope, and it was all thanks to the IS high-grade sensors. I could see fine even in high speed movement.
If this sort of ability were to be used for something bad, it could really create quite a lot of trouble! Some of my gang members might use it for crime...I will confirm or deny nothing!
"Orimura, Alcott, try doing a sudden dive and then come to a complete halt. The target is 10cm above the ground."
"R-Roger. In that case, I'll be going first."
After saying that, Cecilia immediately dropped towards the floor. I was somewhat impressed as I watched her become smaller.
"You're good, aren't you, Sora no Mei?" I muttered
Just like that, she seemed to have completely stopped perfectly—okay, time for me to go down.
I gathered my particles to focus on the booster on my back and I instantly dived down to the ground.
*Whoosh—DHUMP!*
Too fast!
I quickly changed the route of the particles to my side armor skirt. From the circular device on the armor blasted out a wave of red particles.
I landed in a towering red mist.
As the class gathered around the smoke and mist I made in my landing. They had various looks from worry, concern, surprise, and awe...wait there were the annoyed looks from my sis and Houki, how harsh. What if I was hurt?
I came out of the red mist and smokes with my arms crossed over my chest and legs together above the ground. I gentle hovered above ground until I stopped and landed on the ground. My hove like metal shoes on my bottom of my IS's feet made small spider cracks on the floor.
"You idiot. Who do you think you are? A Hero of Justice?" Chifuyu-Nee yelled .
"I was going for dark, but dashing villain that kidnaps princesses, but that's fine too." I teased.
She smacked me on my head.
"...It didn't hurt." I told her as my Masurao's Hemet blocked the attendance book of hell.
She glared at me.
I raised my armored hands in surrender.
"You idiot. Who asked you to show off like that?" Houki yelled as she ran towards me.
"Gomen ,gomen." I told her.
I activated the helmet's special feature and the orange sun glasses in front of me lift up to show the world my eye, also the part that completely covered my mouth was parted away revealing my face.
"You're embarrassing! Ichika, have you forgotten what I taught you yesterday?"
Giving me a cold stare, Houki folded her arms in front of her chest as she waited for me there. What you 'taught me yesterday'...don't tell me you are talking about those weird noises? The 'dong' touch and the 'mm' feeling? Houki can actually tell a joke! I am impressed; I thought it would be too much for her. Hm, so having a change in perspective is a good thing. Naruhodo(I see)
"You're definitely thinking something rude right now, aren't you?"
That! That is Chifuyu-Nee's mind reading jutsu! How could this be?
I felt a glare from Chifuyu-Nee...Damn that mind reading power.
"Basically Ichika, ever since the past, you've been—"
Just when I thought that Houki was going to continue to rattle on, someone actually appeared in front of me and interrupted her. God bless her.
"Ichika-san, are you alright? Are you hurt?" Cecilia asked in a concerned voice.
"O-Oh, I'm alright..." I didn't hit the ground. I was only caught off guarded at the sudden speed. Masurao's side booster came in handy.
"Naturally master." Came a voice in my helmet.
Masurao is such a good girl, Chifuyu-Nee could learn a thing or two from her.
"Orimura...You're definitely thinking something rude about me, aren't you?" my sister asked .
What is with that female mind reading skill! I demand protection for my private thoughts...yes, even from you Masurao.
"Is that so? That's great." said Cecilia with a sign of relief. Ah the Sora no Mei is such a kind person. A honest smile works for her so well.
"...How could he possibly be injured when he is equipped with an IS..." Houki scolded her.
"Araaa? Shinonono-san, isn't it normal to be concerned about others? Even if he's equipped with an IS, this is common sense, right?" she said in a haughty tone.
"You're one to talk, you wolf in sheep clothing."
"Well, it's better than donning the clothes of a demon."
*BOOM!*
Both glared at each other, creating a powerful presence of killing intent. Amazing for only a high skilled fighter or a mad man can emit such powerful fighting sprits. However, these two doesn't get along very well, I thought the girls got along with each other easily?
"Hey you, idiots, don't block the way. If you want to quarrel, go somewhere else!"
Forcefully pushing Houki and Cecilia's heads apart, Chifuyu-nee stood in front of me.
"Orimura, deploy your weapon. You should be able to do so at will, right?"
"Your wish is my command my mistress." I teased her as I summoned the Shiki Kyodais(Expression Brothers) the Byakushiki(White Expression) and Kuroshiki(Black Expression)
The two swords materialized in .8 seconds and I did a nice pose with both blades on the side.
The black and white swords…opposite and yet united.
One cannot exist without the other.
Two works of art that is so deadly and yet beautiful.
I had some practice with Masurao before to summon them through mental command. Since swords are her elements it was easier with enough practice.
"What the hell are you posing for?"
"…I am a villain."
Glare intensifies by 40%, slowly penetrating my safety barriers.
"…boo, fear me." I said in a lame attempt to make a joke.
Ah! I see the angry twitch on her forehead.
"Change it now!"
"Kill joy…" I muttered under my breath.
This time she jumped in a spin to perform a spinning smack in my opened face.
"AAAGGKK!" I howled in pain.
"You let your guard down." Houki said like this was ok.
"You two are too much." I whined at them, but the angry duo ignored me.
"Poor me." I muttered.
"Ichika, practice until you can summon it within 0.5 seconds."
Ack, there she goes again...not only did she not praise me, she smacks me for trying to cheer her up, and now she even looks down on me! No matter what she says, this is all I could improve within just one week! I'd like to see her try to cook an edible meal like any other woman of her age in a week. I bet she can't because I have seen her attempts for years now. So HA!
Chifuyu Nee glared at me again; her mind reading power was on fire today.
"Cecilia, deploy your weapons." said my sister as she turned away from me.
"Yes!"
She raised her hand to where her shoulder was, and then stretched her arm to the side. Unlike me, she didn't glow, but gave off a sudden burst of light. With just that, she was already holding onto the 'Starlight MkIII'.
Compared to me, she was a whole lot faster, and her gun was loaded. Cecilia just had to look in order to remove the safety. Within one second, she deployed her weapon, even getting ready to shoot.
"As expected of a representative candidate, it was acceptable speed and reaction. However, you've got to change your pose. Who're you aiming at when you point your gun to the side? Try and point it at the front."
"Bu-But, but I need to maintain this for my image—"
"CHANGE IT! YOU HEAR ME?"
"—...yes."
Cecilia looked like she wanted to argue back, but she immediately shut up after Chifuyu-nee glared at her.
" Don't worry Cecilia, I sympathize." I said to her out loud with a knowing look.
Chifuyu powers her glare beam to over 80% of her full power...the Battle ship Ichika is sinking.
"Cecilia, deploy your close-range weapon." She commanded Cecilia after turning away from my interruption.
"Wha? Ah, yes, yes!"
Cecilia seemed to be grumbling about something, so she got shocked when she was called, and answered slowly.
The gun in her hand became light particles and then, she 'deployed' a new close-ranged weapon.
However, the glow in her hand couldn't shape itself as it floated around in the air.
"Huh...where is her weapon?" I thought out loud.
"Isn't it ready yet?" demanded Chifuyu Nee. Nee-Chan, go easy on us non-champions, you might break a student with your Spartan teaching style...but seeing her in an ancient Greek outfit might not be so bad!
Wait! There goes a nose bleed.
Drip, drip...I regret nothing.
"It, it'll be ready soon—ahh, damn it! 'Interceptor'!"
She half-reluctantly shouted out her weapon's name. After her focus gathered, the glow shaped into the weapon. For a representative candidate like Cecilia to deploy the weapon through this method, she must really not be used to summoning the 'Interceptor' huh. She summoned it rather slow in our match as well.
"...How long did you take? Do you want the enemy to wait for you in a real battle?"
"In, in a real battle, I wouldn't allow the enemy to enter my range! So, so there would be no problem!"
No good, Sora no Mei. Talking back to Nee Chan is a one way ticket to the scolding of the century, at least for me any way.
"Oh? But against Orimura, you seemed to have easily let a beginner get close to you."
"OBJECTION; I am a pro in a combat with sharp tings!" I shouted out like I was in a court, but quickly shut up as the glare turned to me. Battle Ship Ichika lives on baby!
"Th-That, that's because..."
Cecilia mumbled; not knowing what to do, she was obviously unable to speak clearly. Just as I was looking at this indifferently, she glared at me.
At that moment, a signal came through a private frequency. Oh it seems I forgot to reactivate the Akakami's communication and scanner jamming system.
"It's all your fault!"
"Why?" I asked with my eye brow raised.
"Be-Because you came rushing at me..." she muttered out.
"My IS only had a close-ranged weapon, of course it became like that." I answered her in a deadpanned voice.
"You, you better take responsibility!" She yelled through the private frequency link.
I reactivated the Akakami's communication jamming ability.
What do you want me to take responsibility for? I muttered to myself.
Of course I didn't reply the last question, because my instincts told me to shut up.
"Time's up, that's it for today's lesson. Orimura, clear up the field."
"With you like a nice kiss on the cheek with that sis?" I teased as I quickly activated my helmet to cover my face. HA! Now she can't hit me.
"Orimura! Laps around the court carrying a school IS, until I feel tired."
This couldn't get worse so I made the last jab.
"So, no 'I love you big Sister' kiss with a little brother hug? We used to do that a lot when I was little, remember?"
She was blushing so much that I thought she could burst into flames any moment.
She looked like ready to smack me to China, but she quickly turned around and left. Following her was Yamada sensei and few students screeching about sibling love and the forbidden realm.
I opened my GN-Drive's compartment and opened my hands. The remaining particles floating in the air were reabsorbed into my drive.
"Don't underestimate the Doukugan Ryu Nee-Chan…This Ryu has always been your side, remember…" I whispered.
"Nee chan, please forgive your loveable brother." I pleaded.
"Die!" She coldly told my fate.
I running with an Uchigane, a 2nd generation IS strapped on my back as I jogged in the field. This damn thing was at least 100kg! It seems a jab at her more…cute side has a nasty consequence.
"I been doing some serious overkill with you for a while Nee chan! I did pull ups with this dead weight tied to my back, and push-ups with you on my back! How much do I need to do!"
"Until I am satisfied! You embarrassed me in front of an entire class! Yamada wouldn't shut up about the kisses, until I had a little sparring with her in a dojo!"
"I am sorry Nee-chan!" I pleaded.
We been at this all day long. I am so tired and I didn't even had anything to eat yet!
"Go master! Go!" Masurao cheered at the side line. The little traitor refused to let me use her to get away saying how this builds character. What a load of BULL!
"Ah…kill me now." I said as I fell forward, face first.
"…"
"…Here." Said Chifuyu Nee as she handed me a water bottle.
I drank the whole bottle empty at once.
"You can be so mean Nee-chan." I complained to her.
"And you a pain in the ass." She countered.
"Let's go back!" she said as she stood up.
"Wait! Help me up!"
She held my hand up and I stood back up.
"Arigato Nee-chan."
As we silently walked back to the school I stared at her back.
She turned around. "Is there something wrong?"
"…Nothing."
"…"
"…"
"Are you upset at my teaching style?"
"No comment here Nee-Chan, but you could cut us some slack. Nee-chan should be a bit gentler and act less like a drill sergeant. After all, the first years are all rookies anyway."
She huffed and turned around to continue walking.
I suddenly had an idea. I hugged her from behind.
"W-What are you doing Orimura!"
"Just giving my hard working sister a big hug." I teased.
I was sweaty from her punishment from Hell and I was wearing my IS suit, which absorbs sweat. I hugged her tighter.
"L-Let go idiot!" she struggled, but I held tight.
"Don't be so cold Chifuyu-Nee, no one is here to see big bad Chifuyu-Nee being happy." I said in a cheerful tone.
"Thanks for caring sis." I whispered.
My sister stopped struggling and actually relaxed in my arm. Her lavender scent was intoxicating. I silently inhaled her scent from training me and working all day.
"Ah…I haven't done this in long time." I whispered.
"…Don't be a baby…One Eyed Dragon-chan." She muttered.
I smiled at her tease.
Nee-chan looks most beautiful when she smiles.
I was unrelenting to let her go, but I have to mature soon.
I slowly let her go, taking in her warmth for the last time.
"Well, you seem better now Nee-chan." I teased her.
She blushed, and gently poked me on my forehead.
" Damare… Orokana ototou."("Be quiet…foolish little brother.")
"Hai hai…Onee-sama." I replied.
Sibling moments…are quite calming.
(In a Lab)
"Humm…This has never been seen before." Kojuro muttered as other scientist examined Masurao.
"I don't really mind the hologram device, but are the repairs for Masurao complete?"
"Hai! Ichika-sama! Every weapon was cleaned and every damaged piece of armor were replaced. We even done some checkups to make sure everything worked ok."
"…make sure to keep the data on Masurao a secret. The whole point of Akakiri and Akakami was to conceal information on Masurao, only allowing the enemy to guess." I told my loyal samurai in a serious tone.
"Hai! You don't have to worry my lord. Some of the engineer crew to security, to manual labour is done by the Date Army's members. Each individual was checked for lie and loyalty."
"As expected of you. Well done Kojuro."
Kojuro bowed down to his knee.
"Your praise honors me my lord."
I nodded as I watched some data on the screen.
"…Yujihira Akatsuki, wasn't able to extend its blade while maintaining its sharp form…Why?"
"I believe it is a flaw in the design, right now we are fine tuning it again, but with your permission. I will try to make a new blade that is made for long range extension while keeping its sharpness."
"Oh? Another blade? Will the equalizer be able to take it?"
"It is a sword, Ichika-sama…Masurao will not refuse it."
"Too true."
I stared into my arm guard.
"What do you think, Masurao?"
Masurao came out in her human form and smirked.
"This Masurao will never refuse a fine, crafted katana."
I smirked and Kojuro shock his head side to side.
"Kojuro, I will leave this to your crew."
"I will not fail your expectation, Ichika-Sama."
"Orimura-kun, congratulations on becoming the class representative!"
"Congratulations~!"
*PA!* *PA!* *PA!* *PA!* The pops land on me from all directions, and the colored ribbons that land on me weigh a lot more on my heart than the actual weight itself.
"You're really popular, Ichika."
"I, Orimura Ichika, will acknowledge or deny nothing."
"Humph."
Houki gave a cold response before drinking.
Kojuro, who I managed to drag with me, shook his head again. He knows something…but won't tell me!
We were in the middle of the cafeteria to celebrate my promotion as a Class Representative. Around us was some of my crew who had time to be able to waste it with me. They were in a party mood and came for free food. Around them were the girls from 1-1 and some from 1-2, 1-3, and 1-4. Even Yukihana was here, but she was already snoring. It seems the excitement was too much for the poor girl.
"Ah, I'm Mayuzumi Kaoruko, nice to meet you. I'm the vice-president of the News Paper Club. I'm here to do a scoop on the hotly discussed freshman, Orimura Ichika-kun's special interview!"
"Then, then, Orimura-kun! Please state your thoughts on becoming the class representative. Here!"
She held the recorder in front of me, her eyes shining like the ones of a naive kid.
"…Cecilia, I think you know how troublesome this would become right?"
"Hohohoho…Now what could you mean by that, I wonder?"
I sighed in defeat.
"Go Aniki! Say something manly!" a follower shouted who always had an Elvis hair style.
"Say something like, 'I live for the sake of fighting' or something like that!" a member with a Mohawk said .
What should I say? I have no intention of going along, but I can't betray everyone's expectations. Sigh, Mataku, this is so troublesome. I turned to Kojuro, but he was only smiling at me, so he is no help right now.
"While this was unexpected, but I am not the kind of man who backs down from these kind of things so…Wish me luck."
"Huh—give us something awesome~~ like, like 'don't get too close to me, you'll get hurt' or something like that!"
"What do I look like, a cool and dark character from a movie?"
The girls stared at me…mostly on my eye patch.
"Aniki, that was a given. I mean that is your selling point." Said one gangster.
"Ichika-sama, there is no doubt our gang is considered as bad in the eye of society." Kojuro said while sipping a glass of juice.
I sighed again.
"This Doukugan Ryu will attain the title of the Strongest in the world. Anyone who wish to challenge me, then go ahead and face me!" I shouted out loud in my usually confident declaration. Alongside my words, my gangs raised their glass and cheered with me.
"ANIKI! WE WILL FOLLOW YOU TO THE GATE OF HELL AND TO THE HALL OF HEROES!"
"Wow, a manly proclamation! Nice one Orimura-kun and his followers!"
"Oh yeah, how about having Cecilia say a few words?" I directed the attention to the blond noble lady.
"I don't really like to make this sort of interview, but since you asked me, it can't be helped."
Though she's grumbling, she doesn't look like she's refusing...and she's already waiting over there! She is really suited for focusing a lot of attention on her huh.
"Ahem. Then, first, I Cecilia Alcott, will—"
"Ahh, if it's going to be long, forget about it. Just take a photo." The News girl cut her off.
"You, hear me out to the very end!" exclaimed Cecilia in outrage.
"No problem, I'll just make up some content. Oh, let's just assume that you like Orimura-kun."
"Wha, wha, what...?"
Cecilia immediately blushed. Seems like she's definitely angry. Hmmm, better find some cover from the fire.
Some of my gang members turned depressed and sat down in a dark corner. They had a cloud of depression over their head as they made circles on the ground.
"…Aniki attracts a pretty girl again without even trying. All the fishes are heading toward him. What are we left with…" muttered one of them.
"He should just marry one or even Chifuyu-sama to spare us from the pain. Remember Valentine's day Aniki and Katakura-sama had so much chocolate that they needed us to move them to their house. I never felt more like a worm that day." a gang member with dyed hair and a chained necklace said depressed .
"Agree." Said the one with a Mohawk. The others just nodded.
I could only stare at them.
"What are they mumbling about?" I asked Kojuro.
"…it is something you can't understand sir, you never spend a day of love without a chocolate." He answered in a calm tone.
"? What are you talking about? Of course I receive Chocolate during that time, those girls bought a lot because of the discount and had to share it with me to avoid eating too much."
Kojuro stared at me with a strange look. It seems like pity and disbelief. I don't get it. That's what the girls told me thou.
"Ichika-sama…this Kojuro will always support you, even if you are a lost cause in this regard."
"The hell are you saying Kojuro?" I asked but Cecilia's voice rang out, overpowering mine.
"What nonsense are you spouting?" Cecilia shouted.
"Relax, Sora no Mei. Handle things coolly." I told her.
It seems she calmed down a little.
"Okay okay, anyway, both of you, please stand together! I'm going to take a photo now."
"What?"
"Hmmm?"
Cecilia sounded rather surprised. However, it seemed like she was rather delighted as well.
"Because you have your own personal IS! Let me take a photo. Ah, it would be good to hold hands too!"
"Is, is that so...that's right…Excuse me, but you'll give me a copy of the photo, right?"
"Of course."
"Then let me go change clothes first—"
"No way, that'll take too much time. Okay, hurry up and stand together."
Mayuzumi–sempai pulled Cecilia's hand and mine before making us hold hands together directly. What a hard-styled sempai.
"..." Cecilia started to look nervous and was bright red.
"What is it?" I asked her.
"Not-Nothing, nothing at all."
"Cecilia little to the left and Orimura kun little to the back."
After a few seconds of shifting positions, I got annoyed.
"That's it!" I shouted as I suddenly held Cecilia by her shoulder into my chest.
"This way, are we both in the picture?"
"YES! Orimura-kun, nice play!"Senpai shouted.
"Say Cheese!"
*Pacha!* She pressed down on the shutter of the digital camera...hold on, hey!
"Why is everyone squeezing together here!"
Everyone in class moved at an utterly terrifying speed as they immediately gathered around Cecilia and me the moment the photo was taken. Ah, even Houki's moving in! Such speed. Even Kojuro appeared to my right and my gang members went to the back.
"You, you people!..." Cecilia was fumbling her words.
"Don't mind it, don't mind it."
"Cecilia can't just have a head start, right—"
"Wouldn't it be great to have a class memory?"
"That's right—"
"Erm, uu..."
My classmates started to stare cheekily at Cecilia, who was unable to say anything. My sense went dull, whenever this happens Kojuro always laughs at me like he knows something that I don't. Kojuro where are you? Help your master to understand.
"I am getting that weird feeling again. Kojuro explain." I commanded.
"Ichika-sama, the only thing this Kojuro can do is to wait for a powerful lady to tame you. Only then will I be able to sleep well in night."
"Huh?" I am now really confused. Why does he keep speaking in riddles? Say it in a way I can understand!
Anyway, this 'Orimura Ichika Class Representative Assignment Party' lasted until past 10pm. Kojuro and the boys left before 9PM to get back to work. I like how diligent they are.
"Today sure was fun, right? Good for you." Houki said such irritating words with a mocking tone. What's she planning to do? Start a quarrel with me? Just to let you know I can talk the talk you know.
"Who says that I'm happy? Would being tired make me happy? If you were in my position, would you be happy?" I argued back while rubbing my neck.
"Uu...ah, that's right, maybe I would be happy!" she muttered.
"Whatever. I'm going to sleep now." I said in an annoyed tone.
"Wha-What? It's just 10.30pm!"
"I'm already tired! It's best to sleep now." I told her.
After I said that, I snuggled into my bed; and then, a pillow suddenly came flying over at me smacking my face.
"Hey—what's with you?"
"That, that is something I should be asking, right? I'm going to change into my sleepwear, so face the other direction!"
Why is it that she always wants to change into her sleepwear when I'm around? Couldn't she have done it when I was brushing my teeth? She needs to think of this in my point of view.
"Sigh, Houki, I did tell you before that you should change clothes when I'm not around—"
I got glared at. I am receiving those a lot of that lately. It wasn't the 'Orimura Ichika, prepare yourself for a fight the death', but more like…a womanly aura of death.
"I get it, I get it. I'm turning over now."
That's why I said that girls are hard to understand. Kojuro, I know you are withholding information from me. Assist your master! Right Eye of the Dragon!
"…"
"…"
"I-It's fine now."
After gaining permission, I again turned my body around.
"Oh? Is that a new Sash?"
Houki changed into a bedtime Yutaja. As always traditional clothing suits her well.
"You, you sure are perceptive."
"No, it's not that. The color and pattern are different, so of course I would notice it. My eye misses nothing. I'm with Houki every day after all."
"Is, is that so? You were looking at...me? I get it, I get it." She said while nodding about it so happily.
"Okay! Let's sleep!"
Is this the enthusiasm that a person who's about to sleep should have? She's really strange.
"...Ichika."
"Hm?"
"Just, just now, about what happened...I'm sorry."
"…It's fine, don't worry about it." I said as I rolled over.
"Is, is that so? Then that's fine...then, goodnight."
"Ah, goodnight."
In that night's dream, Masurao was whining about how I ignored her the whole day. I had to make up by training with her and spending more time with her. But I did train to use that skill...The Black Thieving Hand. An Ace in the Hole.
"Good morning, Orimura-kun. Have you heard about the rumor of the transfer student?"
"Oho!…A transfer student? At this time of the year?"
I heard that the conditions required to enter this IS Academy are rather strict. An exam's definitely required and without a country's recommendation, it's impossible to enroll here. Which means…a representative?
"That's right. I heard that it's a transfer student from China!"
"Woah, is that so?" I asked Cecilia
"Oh my, so is she wary of my existence and decided to transfer in?" Cecilia said with her usual pose of putting her hand on her hip.
"She can't possibly transfer into this class, right? There's nothing to get worked up over." Houki said as she sat near me.
"What sort of girl is she?" I asked, wondering if she will be strong as Cecilia.
"Uu...are you concerned about that?" asked Houki
"Hm? Yeah, a little."
"Humph..."
After I answered honestly, for some reason, Houki's mood worsened as she shows an unhappy look. Nowadays, it seems like her mood will swing from good to bad; such a troublesome person. Is seems like that rebellious mood that commonly appears among youths, I deal with fools like that all the time. I am in a blind, because I normally smack the crap out of stupid teenagers that messes around with me.
"Ichika! You of all people don't have the time to think about other girls? The class representative tournament is coming up next month."
"That's right! Just like that. Ichika-san, in order to get ready for the class representative tournament, we'll be having more practical lessons. As for the opponent, allow me, Cecilia Alcott to take that place. Besides, the only ones with personal IS in this class are me and Ichika-san."
"Well…since it is a fight, then I wouldn't mind too much, but are there any noteworthy opponents?"
"At this point, only the representatives from class 1 and class 4 have a personal IS, so it should be easy to win this!"
"Oh? And who is this reprehensive in 1-4?"
Before my question was answered the sound of the door opening took my attention away.
"—Your information is outdated."
Hm? This voice…A familiar voice!
"The class representative of class 2 also has a personal IS, you know! You can't win that easily."
The person who folded her arms in front of her chest as she puts a leg on her other kneecap and leans on the wall is—
"Rin...? Kore wa kore wa…Long time no see, Rin"
"That's right. I'm the representative candidate from China, Huang Lingyin. Today, I came here to declare war." She declared as she gave a little smile as her trademark twin ponytails swayed about left and right.
"What are you acting cool for shorty, I told you poses don't fit you, remember?" I told her with a deadpanned tone. Her reaction will be the classic one among short people all over the world.
"Wha...? Ichika! How dare you call me short! Just because you got taller you…"
Ohh…There we go, reverted right back to her normal way of talking. Silly girl, whose pose were you imagining?
"Hey!"
"What was that for—"
*PA!* Asking that, Rin got hit viciously by the attendance book—the instructor from hell has arrived. My my, Nee-chan you look rather refreshed today…must have been thanks to your little brother's hug filled with love.
"It's time for SHR. Head back to class."
Never mind, she is still a Spartan…rather normal huh.
"Chi-Chifuyu-san..."
"Call me Orimura-sensei! Hurry up and go back, don't block the door here. You're a bother"
"So-Sorry..."
Rin trembled as she retreated from the door; that attitude clearly shows that she's afraid of Chifuyu-nee. She's always been afraid of Chifuyu-nee, but that is only natural.
"I'll come again later. Don't run away, Ichika."
"Since when did I ever ran away?"
"Hurry up and get back."
"Ye-Yes!"
"Oi! Rin!" I called her.
She turned to face me.
MY arm was on the back of my head as I stretched out.
"My goal is still the same…if you want to follow me, you got to be strong…you are strong now, right?" I asked her with a lazy smirk.
She smirked right back.
"I am always strong. Ichika! It is you who will need to watch out! Make sure you're strong enough for me!"
She dashed towards class 2.
Oho?... still the same Rin I know, hot headed and stubborn. However, why must she purposely come all the way here just to act cool? Is she trying to change her image after entering High school? That really doesn't suit her at all. However just like a year ago, she is so amusing.
"So, She got strong now…strong enough to not fall of my path. Also she's an IS pilot. Kore wa, kore wa, this is the first time I heard of that..."
I subconsciously uttered out what I was thinking.
"...Ichika, who was that? Someone you know? You two seem rather familiar with each other."
"I-Ichika-san? What sort of relationship do you have with that girl—"
Everyone else started to gather their fire as they aimed and fired questions at me. Sigh, I was so stupid...
*PA!* *PA!* *PA!* *PA!*
"HURRY UP AND GET ON YOUR SEATS, YOU BUNCH OF IDIOTS!"
Chifuyu-nee's attendance book puffs out smoke...is it my fault?—yes it is.
"Rin huh…ore no secando osanajime…chibi Rin chan…"(Rin huh…my second childhood friend…little Rin chan) I muttered as I remembered the past. Masurao hummed on my arm with me.
I had a feeling the C.R.T will be a crazy party, but this Doukugan Ryu will stand on the top.
"Party time." I whispered softly as I resumed listening to Chifuyu-Nee's lecture.
Review!
Ch 7 is done! Will be publishing it soon. This chapter felt little slow, because it was an aftermat of a big match, but I got alot of good stuff planned out. Please gave a loud appaluse for xTenchix for beta reading.