Soaring of the Doukugan Ryu! Orimura Ichika!

by Fangking2

Ichika was kidnapped at the age of ten. From there he had to kill 3 men to protect his sister. Now he is a hardened young man whose goal is to attain the title of the strongest. A swordsman, battle maniac, gang leader, and now a first male IS pilot.

13. Chapter 12 Under My Protection

Here is the long awaited ch12! I also like to mention this baby is over 22,200 words and 52 pages...the LONGEST chapter I ever did. How is that for a Chrismas present! Enjoy the holiday people!

Ch12 Under the protection of the Dragon!

---

"..."

"..."

God! Neither one of us are talking. Whenever one tried to start, it was at the same time, so we sat back down again. I am the Fearsome Doukugan Ryu! Why the fuck am I not leading the conversation?"

In my mind I wore a priest outfit and got down to my knee in front of a statue of a samurai with one eye on a horseback. Masurao was next to me in a miko outfit and sitting in a seiza position. I prayed to the statue for good fortune and guidance.

"Shodaime Doukugan Ryu, Date Masamune-Sama! By the name of conquest of the Hi no Kuni and the Glory of the Oshu, give me strength to march on!"

The statue glowed and my mindscape was covered in a blinding light.

---

"So…Charles…Why did you choose to cross-dress as a guy?"

"That's because...that...tha...someone in my family, he told me to do..."

"Hm? Your family? As in the Dunois?"

"Yes. My dad's the chairman of that company, and he ordered me to do it."

There it is again…Whenever his-I mean her family is mentioned Charles will go quiet. I can tell there is a bad memory there and I am positive that the parents are at fault here. I know because my parents were trash too.

"You said he ordered...your dad? Why did he order you to do such a foolish thing? To give such false information to the media and being discovered like this can cause all kinds of damage."

"Ichika...well, I'm an illegitimate child."

Ah…That explains it a lot. In the world there are those who consider the true child or illegitimate child thing very seriously. I recall some clans in Japan like the Katakura, Takeda, or even the Oda has upheld the ancient tradition of the first born receiving the title of the Clan head or how illegitimate children are a dirty secret or a shame.

Orimura isn't a clan so I don't deal with that kind of crap, but Kojuro told me that traditionally, the first born male of Katakura once served the next heir of the Date clan back in the Sengoku Era. Of course Kojuro's loyalty lies with me now.

"I was sent back 2 years ago, about the time when my mother died. My dad's subordinates came looking and put me through many check-ups. They immediately found that my IS aptitude was extremely high, so...while it was unofficial, they made me a test pilot."

It's likely that all of these were things that Charles didn't want to mention. Even so she told me her tale and I listened to it patiently…it was only thing I could do as I saw her face filled with such sadness. I suddenly had a feeling that I'll want to cut up the Dunois family's Toshu(Clan head) sometime soon in the future.

"I only met my dad twice, and only talked to him those two times. I usually stayed somewhere else, and was only summoned to the main house once—it was horrible. I got beaten up by the real wife and labeled as 'a thief's daughter'. It was miserable...had my mother told me more, I wouldn't have been so lost."

Never mind the Dunois Clan is going to face extermination soon. I had to clench my fist to endure the emotion of rage and hatred. My fist went white as I clinched too hard. Chalres let out a small laugh, but it was dry and lifeless…This is not how a family acts. My sister…My gang that is not affiliated with blood is more of a family than the Dunois family!

"After a while, the Dunois Corporation was facing a crisis."

"Huh? While it is a good thing they are having trouble from what you told me…But the Dunois Corporation has the third largest share of mass-produced IS in the world."

"That's correct, but the Revive is still a second generation machine after all. IS development needs a lot of money, and most of the enterprises were only able to develop them after getting the support of their respective country. However, France was omitted from the European Union's 'Ignition Plan', and facing this crisis, they had to create 3rd generation frames. Though it was out of national defense concerns, for a country that doesn't have enough capital, what awaits it is doom if they don't get any benefits right from the beginning."

Speaking which, I remember what Cecilia said about 3rd generation IS development. The development of special Anti-IS combat weapon, the 3rd generation Infinite Stratos.

"Right now, the European Union's having a surge in selecting the 3rd generation Ignition Plan! Right now, the ones taking part are my country's Blue Tears, Germany's Schwarzer series and Italy's Thunderstorm II. Though England's leading right now in terms of practical usage, there's still some instability, so the country sent me into this IS Academy to obtain data."

I remember she said that. So this means that the reason why Laura transferred in was also because of that. The IS Gakuen is a breeding and testing ground for weapons and data's. My Masurao was here too in order to gather more data to improve as well.

"Back to the main point, the Dunois Corporation would end up developing the 3rd generation frames, but they were already a lot slower than the other countries and was the last company selling the second generation frames. Thus, they had too little data and time, and couldn't create much. Because of this set back the government naturally gave far too little capital to the Dunois Corporation. Then, the situation had become one such that 'if the company fails in the next selection, the government will completely cut off funding and even revoke the rights to develop IS'."

Ah…if this situation didn't have a bad side effect on Charles, I would have thought that it's a good thing those assholes are in the deep.

"I understand the situation, but what does that have to do with you dressing up as a guy?" I questioned the tired girl.

"It's simple. I'm supposed to gain publicity. And also—"

Charles looks away from me and says with an anxious voice,

"If I'm a guy, it'll be easier for me to approach the current irregular case that appeared in Japan. The irregular case with an IS that prevents scanning for data's and a mysterious IS that was made by Dr. Shinonono. An IS that managed to damage all the data's collected on it and proven itself to be the strongest IS at the moment. If possible, I'm to take his IS and biometric data back. Just like that."

"In other words…"

"That's right. He wanted me to steal Masurao's data. That person."

So the trash is using poor Charles to gather data's on Masurao. I can see that happening. After my match with Cecilia and Rin, So many companies came to me for in close research on Masurao, because they couldn't even get a clear image of Masurao after the First –shift. Masurao's Akakami damages all attempts on scanning and analyzing Masurao from outside source and Akakiri prevents all form of clear vision on Masurao through camera. Even with naked eyes, it is hard to see Masurao when she is moving in high speed or standing still in her crimson mist.

This father of her…is only her father in name and blood. He is nothing but a stranger to her. I guess my parents are a bit better as trash than the head of the Dunois, because at least mine had the sense not to show themselves in front of me again after the shit they pulled. The grief they caused for Chifuyu-Nee…making her raise me alone…dealing with all the crap they should've been dealing with at a young age. A middle school girl…raising her brother…If they show up, I plan to introduce my Rokuso, the Six Claws to them…And cut them using the dull, blunt side of the blade…Trust me, and I'll manage it just fine.

An if the Dunois head show himself in front of me…Well, I need to practice for my parents anyway.

"Hm, that's the case, but now that Ichika found out, I'll definitely be called back...as for Dunois' Corporation, mn...whether it collapses or merges with another enterprise, it won't be the same anymore, right? It doesn't matter for me anyway."

"..."

"Ah, I feel a lot better saying it out. Thank you for listening to me! Also, I'm sorry for lying to you. I'm sorry."

Charles bowed to me deeply. She stood up and headed toward the door. Before she can leave I stood up and grabbed onto her shoulder. Forcing her to look up.

"Is that truly fine with you?" I asked in a cold voice.

"Huh...?"

"Is that alright with you? Can you honestly tell me you feel ok with what those bastards do with you? To be used like a tool by those who doesn't even care! To be belittled by those who mean nothing to you! To be forced by those who should care and love you. To be cast aside and only to be brought back by a man that doesn't deserve your attention and time! How can you be? That's just inhumane!"

"I-Ichika...?"

Charles shows a timid look of not understanding what's happening, but I couldn't control myself for I am a dragon…A majestic dragon will roar as it ascends the heavens!

"It's logical that kids won't be born if there are no parents. But still, that doesn't mean that they can do everything they want with them. A parent is only a parent by loving and caring for their offspring. By protecting them and staying with them, to comfort them and guide them! If not they are only your donors and they should mean less than dirt to you! They have no right to control you and you shouldn't need to obey them!

I'm definitely not talking about Charles. I'm talking about myself, huh… And then, thinking about Chifuyu-nee who's been working so hard, I had all the more reason not to it endure further. How can we remain silent when such injustice was done to us…Charles and I are so alike…I'll be a less than a man if I don't help her!

"Wha-What's wrong with you, Ichika? You seem strange..."

"Not as strange as enraged…Such trash doesn't have the right…the right to even stand in front of our faces."

"It's alright...but what happened to you?"

"I…Us…The famous Orimura kyodai…We were abandoned by our no-good parents."

Perhaps she understands what it means to 'be abandoned by parents', Charles lowers her head in apology. Whoa…Well, we abandoned ones should stick together.

"About that...I'm sorry."

"Don't. I still have Chifuyu-nee, and right now, I don't want to see my parents at all. I might kill them slowly. Right now, the most important thing, Charles, is, what are you going to do next?"

Humm…my rather blunt threat to kill my parents didn't affect her. I like this girl already.

"How...I guess it's a matter of time? If the French government learns the truth, they will revoke my rights as a representative candidate without saying a word. If I'm lucky, I'll spend some time in prison..."

"Is it okay?"

"That doesn't matter. I have no right to choose. This can't be helped."

After saying that, Charles reveals a smile that's heart-wrenching. That's an expression that far surpasses the realization of despair. I can't forgive Charles for showing such an expression. Oh…Now I am going to use all my resources. Beside my gang, I have the confidents of Katakura and Takeda, and Urahana. If I pull some favors I might be able to ask for some help from the Oda, Tokugawa, Toyotomi and many other gangs and clans that owe me. Also I have some crazy ass masters in China who taught me Martial arts who happened to be a part of Ancient Chinese Martial Art Association. I have some connections...Some connections a bit crazier than the other. I can't wage war with a nation, but I can damn well prepare to protect a girl from her father!

Oh yeah…This Doukugan Ryu has the nerve and power to do so.

"...If that's the case, just stay here."

"What?"

"There is no need to go back to your father." I spat out the word father like a curse.

"If you're so called home is just a throne cage, then stay with me in my blue sky. Then there is no bar to hold your back and no thrones to cut your wings. If you want to be free then fly under my sky. What's there to fear? If you desire to stand own your own, without restrain from that father of yours, then stand under my flag with my protection. That is all to it."

"I-Ichika..."

"This is not France. This is Japan. The Land of the Rising Sun. A nation where the ideals of bushido and samurais were born! Your father? What of him? In here he is only a man! A one man who dares to challenge me? I swore long ago that those who are under my protection, that they will be protected by my own two hands until the end of my days!" I shouted with my emotions raged.

I clinched my fists and flared my will. I was ready for war if I must wage it!

"If I remember correctly…Ah that's right, Clause number 21 of the special directive: students who are studying in this Academy will not be affiliated to any country, organization or syndicate. Without the student's agreement, external organizations are not allowed to manage them."

I am not thanking Chifuyu-nee for forcing me to read that book…Out loud anyway.

"In other words, you won't be affected for 3 years as long as you stay in this school. Even if the time runs out, then your father can try to get you from my protection. In this very nation of the warrior, I like to see a business men try to force a man who strives to be the strongest warrior to his knees."

"Ichika."

"Humm..."

"Thank you."

I stared into her moist eyes...Man, how can I stop a girl from crying? I am not good at this.

"There is no need to thanks...How can I able to conquer the world, if I can't even do something like this?"

"..."

"..."

The two of us sat there in silence, not knowing what to say to continue the conversation. I wonder if I should give Charles some time to herself. It was a rough day for her.

"Ichika." Charles managed to break the ice first.

"Hm? What is it?"

It seems Charles has more to say.

"It's amazing that you could remember it. There are 55 clauses."

...I guess a change of subject is needed.

"It is one of my thousand skills to be a ruler." I told her jokingly, but I was completely serious.

"Really. Hehehe."

Charles finally laughed. Ah and that's a 15-year-old girl's laugh, devoid of any dark clouds. A girl is the prettiest when they smile and laugh. To make a girl happy is a worthy conquest to make.

Anyway, the final decision's is still Charles' to make. Do what you want."

"Mnnn, I will."

Well at least her resolve isn't broken. She is not a frail girl who is as breakable as a glass. She now has my support and a base to stand on. All there left it to climb the ladder to achieve her freedom. Thinking about this, I again turn to look at Charles, and our eyes crossed each others.

"Hm? What's wrong?"

"Ah, it's nothing, don't worry about it."

I don't know if Charles understands what I'm thinking as she glances at my face. This isn't just a defenseless expression. The cleavage that's showing from below the collar is causing my heart to beat crazily.

"GO MASTER! CONQUER!"

"You're not helping Masurao!"

It seems Masurao got out of her funk as well. While we were listening to Charles' story, my personal IS was rather quiet…Most likely she understand her as she understands me. She is a good girl after all.

"An-Anyway. How should I say this...Charles, please back away."

"?"

"No, that...your breasts..."

After bringing it up, Charles' cheeks blush...it felt like something similar happened a second ago.

"I-Ichika, you've been fixated at my breasts...could it be that you want to see them?"

"!...Huh?"

"..."

"...Ichika no ecchi."

Before I can defend myself we heard a sound of someone approaching our room.

*THOMP* *THOMP*

""!""

By the sound of the echo and the distance, whoever it is rather close. Time for evasive maneuvers!

"Ichika-san, are you there? It seems that you haven't eaten dinner yet. Are you feeling bad?"

The sudden knocking and calling at the door made us jump up in shock.

"Ichika-san, I'm coming in."

Damn it, damn it, damn it! We're doomed this time! Once she sees Charles like this, any dimwitted fellow can tell that she's a girl.

"Wha-What do we do? Hey Ichi-KA!"

Before Charles can finish her sentence I spring into action. I picked her up into my arm and quickly put her on the nearest bed which was mine. With haste I covered her with my blanket and sat near her to cover her face.

"Turn to the other way." I whispered and she obeyed. Just in time too.

"Clak!"

The door opened.

"Ah? What is it Cecilia? Do you need something?" I asked her without skipping a beat. I should have been an actor with my innocent and nonthreatening look...with an eye-patch mind you.

"...What are you doing?"

Right now, the scenario is that I'm using a blanket to cover Charles' body and patting her down from above. It should looks like someone helping another to being bed comfortably.

"Well...Charles was sick. Must be because he stayed wet after taking his shower. I was just nursing him."

"...Ah I see."

It seems my skillful coordination to make my scenario was perfect! I am so clever.

*cough cough*

"See, Charles needs some soup or soft meal. I better get him something to eat. Even if he doesn't want to, eating a little will help."

Please buy the act Cecilia-chan!

"A-Ahem."

Damn it was it too weak of an act! Are the acting days of the Doukugan Ryu over?

"A-Ahh, is that so? I haven't eaten my dinner as well. Uh hm, there sure are some rare coincidences in the world."

Seems like I just fooled Cecilia as she suddenly changes her attitude and changes the topic to going for dinner together. My movie will have a sequel after all. Now it seems like I need to find a way to get food back for Charles.

"Ahem, then, enjoy yourselves *cough* then *cough*.

"Ah...Wakata(I got it), Stay in bed Charles."

"Dunois-san, please take care. Ichika-san, let's go then."

She links an arm with mine. As expected of an Englishwoman, doing something so bold and affectionate that a Japanese woman doesn't really do. Such bold courage should be praised.

'Shall we go Cecilia?" I asked while imitating one of those host guys.

"By all mean, Ichika-san." Said Cecilia while blushing. Ohooo...Who knew copying those flirts could come in handy.

---

We left the room and arrived on the corridor arms locked and close. I will be lying if I said that I didn't enjoy her company. Cecilia told me something that some other girls did and we shared a laugh. It wasn't one of those false laughs from those dreadful parties where everyone is there to show off, but genuine laughter. While walking down the staircase, we hear a shout.

"WHA-WHA-WHAT ARE YOU DOING!"

Another person came running down fast from the other end of the corridor, and I can tell who's that without looking...it's Houki.

"Ahh, Houki-san, we're going to have dinner together now."

My instinct told me to be quiet, because it can feel that a battle has begun, but I didn't see any indication of weapons being drawn. But the dread of battle was there...So is it a battle of will and wits?

"WHAT HAS THAT GOT TO DO WITH LINKING ARMS AND STICKING YOURSELF SO CLOSE TO HIM LIKE THAT!"

"Oh? It's absolutely natural for a gentleman to escort a lady."

"Ah, but in Japan, this kind of affectionate interaction is frowned upon Cecilia." I explained to her.

"Ara! I am making you uncomfortable Ichika-san?"

"Not at all, I don't mind." I assured her, but Houki glared at me for some reason. What did I do this time?

"Ichika! Don't encourage her and let that arm go! Where were you anyway, I was waiting you know!"

How was I supposed to know? You never told me.

"Those are some things a man should realize first master." Said my IS through my head. By the way I really like my mental communication system. It is awesome.

"Oh...IS that so. Then please remind me next time Masurao."

"No way master, I got enough rivals as it is."She whispered softly. I couldn't hear her well.

"Hummm? Did you say something?"

"Nothing master."

Ah...Weird, I could've sworn she said something.

"Araa...Houki-san, It is considered rude to ask another's escort to leave in such a manner. Where are your manners?"

Houki looked like she is ready to blow.

"Anyway, we're going to eat now. We'll take our leave now."

"Hol-Hold it! If that's the case, I'm coming along as well. I'm going for dinner as well."

Hm? Is that so?

"Ara ara, Houki-san, eating too much will speed up weight gain, you know?"

"Humph, don't worry about me. I will burn off those calories through my activity level."

"Ohh, are you talking about the Kendo club that you never show up for? The senpais will cry. There's a national-level freshman who doesn't come for practice at all." I teased her.

"Shut up! I spend my time training you remember!"

"You mean being trained by me to reach my level don't you?"

'Angry Vein mark'

I'll shut up now.

"Besides, my household sent me this, so I'll be Training Iai with it. There won't be any problems."

Sahe said this as she pulled out a real katana. It was covered in blue cloth, but I saw the signature guard design of the Akaru. The blacksmith that only makes the swords for women.

"It's name is Akeyou, crafted by the master swordsmith Akaru Giyou in his last years."

Ah...I thought so. I know of Akaru Giyou the sword maker very well. After the master chose a swordswoman as his lifelong partner, he abandoned all the swords he made before and moved up into Hida mountain. It seemed like he created 'a sword that exists for women'.

I originally went to him many years ago to craft me a light, quick sword for my training for Rokuso. To use six katanas straight off the bat was too dangerous. Kojuro and I concluded a light sword design to never hit the enemy's sword and sword made to be fast in order to strike down the enemy first as the solution to my training.

If it wasn't for the recommendation paper by Kojuro's mother Katakura Sakaya, we wouldn't have received the prototype of my current Rokuso. I practiced with my prototype light sword for many months until I moved on to heavier blades, however I kept the idea of the thin handle and light metal work of the Akaru Giyou as the base for my current Rokuso.

"The-Then, let's go."

Hm, Hm? Why is Houki running to me AH! WHY ARE YOU HOLDING MY ARM!

"...Houki-san, may I know what you're doing?"

"It's natural for a gentleman to escort a lady, right?"

"Escort...Oi oi You two, we're just heading to the cafeteria!"

Let me tell you this, with Cecilia's holding onto my left arm, and Houki's on my right. I can't move well. Not only that they are pulling me in two directions toward themselves! If that is not bad enough other girls are staring...Well, I am used to that to some degree, but still...

"Ahh, so good..."

"This is the so-called being hugged on both sides, I guess."

"What childhood friend? That's too sneaky!"

"What personal machine user? That's too sneaky!"

...why is everyone staring and Houki and Cecilia with such envious eyes? And it seem like these two people are doing it deliberately to earn the envious eyes of many. Oya oya, you two. Don't start a fight over nothing you hear. This is an order off the Class Rep! Honestly...Is being escorted by a boy really something important for the ladies?

"Girls."

"What?"

"What is it?"

"I hate to whine, but it's really hard to walk like this."

Kii!

I just got pinched on both hands! What, what hell are you two doing?

"Don't you have anything else to say in this situation..."

"People who don't realize how happy they are dumber than dogs."

Happiness? Seriously? I just get pinched and received pain. How is that happiness? Unless I am a masochist…WHICH I AM NOT!

"You know what…Forget it. Never mind and let's just go for dinner. Shall we?"

After I prompted them, we continued to walk, but there's another awkward situation. Which by the way I am getting into a lot these days.

"Today's fish set meal is mackerel, it should be delicious." Exclaimed Houki

Squeeze over here.

"I heard that the Western set today has half-cooked egg and bacon spaghetti. Want go and get some, Ichika-san?" urged Cecilia

Squeeze over there.

"Oh, oh yeah, well, about that. I think both are good."

Honestly I was thinking along the line of anything is fine, but be mindful of where you are pulling my arms into. Why? Well…I can feel the soft ample breasts of the girls, and god damn it I got enough to remind me of Charles' breast.

"Master no ecchi."

I couldn't deny it this time.

Yes, Masurao, Your master is a hentai and a lowly worm…An ecchi dragon! Yeah that's it.

"What's wrong, Ichika?"

"Is there anything wrong, Ichika-san?"

Both of them squeezed my arms even harder. They glanced up at my face, and they're sticking even closer to me. While our bodies are touching each other, my arms can clearly feel their breasts being squashed underneath their clothes. Oh my, it is very soft indeed. It reminds me of the time when Chifuyu-nee would hug me to sleep and my 6 or 7 year old head was between her breast…I was clueless back then, but I would gave an arm to relive that again.

"Master no dai ecchi. You got me don't you! I am better than Chifuyu!"

I will not fall to temptation! Even if my brain can let me feel Masurao in our mindscape or in hologram for we are connected too well. Basing her look on Nee-chan doesn't help either.

"Ah…Nothing is wrong."

"HEY! Ichika!"

"Good Evening, Ichika-dono!"

Oho…It seems Yukihana and Rin is here.

My meal time will crazier than I expected. I was proven correct when Rin tried to spoon feed me while Yukihana tried to punch my face in…And this is still not the craziest crap I have seen today.

"Yo! I'm back..."

"Ah, Ichika, welcome back-what's wrong? You seem to swaying about."

"Don't mind me. All I had to deal with was fending off Yukihana, prevent a three way fight between Houki, Rin, and Cecilia, getting yelled by Nee-chan and finally giving her a good night kiss and being rewarded with a punch for showing affection. I brought a grilled fish set meal here. You don't mind eating that, do ya?"

"Huh? What was the last par-…Never mind…Thanks, I'll have some then."

Charles smiled weakly as she takes the tray, but she froze the moment she put it on the table.

"Something wrong?"

"Huh, we-ll..."

"Oyi oyi, it is consider bad manner to leave the warm meal cold you know."

"Ye-Yeah...well, itadakimasu."

Just as I'm laughing at Charles' insecurity, I realized the reason why she showed such an expression. As a Japanese, I never dealt with such problem before. Public enemy number 1 of all foreigners in Asia…The deadly chopsticks.

"Opps…"

*PAK*.

"Ah, ahh...!"

*Pak* *Pak*.

Dropping the food again, Charles lets out a dejected voice.

She had no problems separating the fish from the bones, but for some reason, she couldn't pick it up. Personally I thought her pouting at her failure rather cute…It wasn't Chifuyu-Nee being embarrassed cute with deadly consequences, but more gentle…and lady like, I guess.

"Having trouble using those chopsticks Charles?"

"Um, yeah, I did try to practice using it, but I still can't get it. Ah..."

The fish dropped. There was no wastage since she dropped the food on the plate, but no matter what, she won't be able to eat if this continues. I also like to mention she is now pouting at full power for being unable to use the deadly eating utensil.

"Ah…Naruhodo, Gomen na (I see, I am sorry)Charles. I'll get a spoon for you."

"Huuh? It, it's alright. No need to take another trip, I'll find a way to use the chopsticks."

"Even if you say so, you can't eat well with it yet. Don't be so modest and ask for help." I told her straight. There was no shame in asking help after all.

"Bu-But..."

"Charles, you should be more dependent on others. Being courteous is a good nature, but too much can be a weakness. It is ok to rely on me. If there is a man who you can count on, it is I Doukugan Ryu, Orimura Ichika!" I told her confidently will pointing to myself. If she is in a rough storm that is her life, then I shall be the unmovable pillar that protects her from the deadly winds.

"Ichika..."

Though she hesitates for a while, it seems like she still can't eat, so she says while seemingly decided,

"Th-The-Then..."

"Yeah?" I was eager to hear her ask for help. She put her hand to her mouth, thinking over my offer in deep thought. Her deep thinking look was so…cute. She seems to try so hard and all while looking so vulnerable and adorable.

"Huh, well, then...Ichika, please feed me."

"Very well I'll f-…Hha?"

"You said that I can rely on you..." she said with looking at her hand.

Her eyes were just like those of an abandoned puppy poking its head out from a cardboard box at me in the middle of a rain. Her eyes…Those puppy eyes…I wonder Nee-chan will let me keep her! Wait a fucking minute, Doukugan Ryu! Get your head in the game! A young, defenseless, and powerless girl asked you to do something for her…With the ultimate weapon for women! I don't know about Nee-chan, but I couldn't resist those eyes! Those who would reject such eyes are either cold hearted witches or an asshole that deserve to be my live target practice…With rusty throwing knives. (xTenchix: I'm screwed then probably.)(Fangking2: What did you do Tenchi-chan! Confess your crime NOW!)

"That's right! This Doukugan Ryu is a man, and a dragon of his words. If I said I will conquer the world, then I shall conquer the world. If I said I will be the strongest and a peerless warrior, then I shall reach that rank." I told her while gently hitting my chest with my fist.

"Finally…If I promise a girl that has been used like a tool that I'll protect her from her family and those who will harm her. I shall put my pride, honor, and life to protect her." I thought to myself.

I smiled at her and stared into her violet eyes with my single brown eye.

"I asked you to trust and rely on me, so I will never fail my words."

I received the chopsticks from Charles and picked up the bits of mackerel meat she just dropped. I put my hand underneath it so it will not drop and turned toward the trapped French princess.

Well, I have never done this before…The times with Houki and Rin don't count, because they are childhood friends. Nee-chan doesn't count either. Yukihana stole that chicken from my plate and Cecilia…Let's not get technical.

"Ok…Charles...say 'ahhnn.'"

"Ah, ahhnn-"

Never would I have dreamed of Charles letting me do an 'ahh-' action. Maybe I'm thinking too much, as Charles, who's chewing seriously, looks a bit red.

"Well? How is it? It's good right?"

"Yup, yeah, it's delicious."

"Ha! Go Japanese culinary."

"Umm...I want rice next..."

"No problem."

Thus, I used the chopsticks to pick up a serving of rice that a girl can mouth and used my other hand to cover the bottom to prevent it from dropping as I delivered it to Charles' mouth.

"Here, ahnn-"

"N..."

Charles gracefully ate the rice and chewed it thoroughly. I simply sat there watching her eat. It was rather peaceful.

"Now it's the cold dish."

"I got it."

After few more of that, we talked less as time passed. After a good meal, the two of us went to bed. Masurao was not making a dirty joke or foolish things the whole time. I am proud of you Masu-chan.

---

It's dark. In this heavy darkness, a person is staying there.

She was staring into the night sky as the moon shined above. The silver hairs shined as the moon beam reflected against it. Her features were small and petite, however she had a deadly aura that was anything, but powerless.

Laura Bodewig.

She knew that this was her name, but at the same time, she didn't understand the significance behind it. She was raised and modified in a military lab…Made to be a solider for the glory of Germany. However even for her insignificant name, to that person it meant something.

Only when she was called by Orimura Chifuyu she felt that the name Laura Bodewig had a special significance, and lifted her spirits.

"That person's existence...that strength, has always been my goal, and my reason to live..."

It was like a ray of light.

When she first met Chifuyu, she was stunned by that indomitable strength. Fearful, moved and delighted, the feelings reverberated within her, making her feel hot. She then made such a wish.

Ahh, I really want to be like-her.

I want to be like such a person.

The originally empty places within her quickly filled up, forming her everything.

She was her teacher and also had absolute strength. She was the complete incarnation of her ideals.

She knew that she was not Orimura Chifuyu, and that she is a doll, or perhaps a faker that is dreaming too far. An imitation of poor quality, but she desperately wanted to be like her.

To be so complete and full.

For all her love and admiration for perfection and completion, she couldn't forgive those who aren't complete.

"I have a little brother…A brother I failed to protect."

"Orimura Ichika-the person who caused the instructor to be blemished...One who caused her sadness."

She can't agree with that person's existence.

He who made the instruction weak.

The person that made Instructor Orimura smile so gently.

He who stained her honor.

He who brought that proud woman into tears in shame and sorrow.

"I must eliminate him, no matter the means..."

With burning dark will, Laura silently pulled off her eye-patch, revealing her golden eye to the dark night.

"Orimura Ichika…Your existence can't be tolerated or forgiven."

The Faker who dreams to be a goddess and the Black Knight who strives to surpass the goddess will clash…In an epic battle of the century.

---

"I-Is that true?" Oh that's Rin's voice.

"To think such prize was on the line. I Yukihana is shocked at this development!" Ah! There is Yukihana's voice.

"You are not lying, are you?" And that is Cecilia's…I wonder what they are talking about?

On Monday morning, as I headed towards the classroom, I got shocked by the sudden noise that could be heard on the corridor.

"What's up?"

"Who knows?"

Charles (male version) was walking beside me. Now that I think about it, Charles' skill in self-modification was good enough to fool the freaking IS Academy…It is like Charles is an Assassin or a spy huh.

"I'm telling you it is true! This rumor is the hottest topic in school! If you're victorious in this month's division tournament, it seems like you can go out with Orimura-kun-"

"Oh? Did someone just called my name?"

"""KYAAAHHH!"""

I covered my ear because of the piercing noise assaulted them like a flash bang…Don't ask how I know. NO…NO! I didn't fight alone against some crazy ass black market guys by accident when they were smuggling weapons…I had Kojuro as backup.

"So what are you talking about? I think I heard you people mentioning my name."

"U-Ugh? Did we?"

"I –I know and h-hear no evil!"

"Wh-Who knows what we were saying just now?"

Rin and Cecilia continued to laugh as they changed the topic. What now? Is it something that I can't know?

"No-Now then, I should return to my class."

"Th-That's right! I should return to my own seat now."

Both of them left with a somewhat fake smile. Maybe everyone else who had gathered here are trying to use this opportunity to escape and return to their classes and seats. Humm…My senses are telling me I am missing something critical just now.

"...What's going on?"

"Who knows...?"

---

"Why, why has it become like this..."

Sitting at the table at the window, Houki's trying to act calm, but she's boiling up deep inside. She knew of the rumor that seemed to be related to the individual division tournament, but the problem was with the content.

"If you're victorious in this month's division tournament, it seems like you can go out with Orimura-kun-"

"That should be something only I should know!"

Ichika couldn't have spilled the beans, so who leaked the information? Recalling it, she remembered that her voice may have been too loud. Even so, she always thought that it was a secret between both of them and felt relaxed about it.

"…Kuso!(Damn)"

However the fact is that most of the girls already knew, and even senpais came running into the classroom with questions: 'so how about the winner is from a different grade?', 'can we hand the award out at the ceremony?'

Things sure have gotten out of hand now.

That's to be expected. She's vehemently against Ichika going out with girls other than herself, and that's to be expected. But when that happens, news will spread that she's going out with Ichika. There are many enemies, however there is still a way.

"An-Anyway, I've got to win! It'll be alright once I win! It won't be like that time. It's alright, it's alright...I guess."

That time was something different, but just as important. It was long time ago, when she made the promise with Ichika when they were in fourth grade.

"The winner of the competition get to order the loser to do anything!"

"Heheee! You think you can beat me Houki? Sure, why not."

At that time, it was during the national kendo competition, and all the elementary school students were banded together, so 5th years and 6th years were participating as well. Everyone viewed their hometown dojo's Houki and Ichika as the favorite. In fact, the two children's ability was a lot stronger than the rest, so naturally, those two will be facing off in the final. That should have been the case.

However, they had to move out on the day of the finals, and the one who caused her to forfeit because she couldn't attend it was her own sister, Tabane.

The IS that Tabane developed was so overwhelmingly powerful that many people felt that it could be used as a weapon. Thus, theycould only follow the counsel of the government and move away for the sake of protection.

She can still see herself, led by men in black to get into a car. Behind her was the competition still going high…With Ichika as the winner.

Ever since that day, Houki never liked Tabane. Or rather, she hated her.

---

Hate her.

Despise her.

Resent her.

Never seek her.

Mustn't want her.

---

After that she was moved from safe house to safe house. They investigated her and her family for the whereabouts of her damned sister, who by the way left and disappeared without a trace. In those days, the only thing she hadn't given up was kendo, for she felt that kendo was the only thing that linked herself to Ichika. But even though she won the national championship, it didn't really satisfy her.

The reason was pure and simple. She was angry. She just wanted to beat anyone down into the ground. Violence was her solution to get rid of her pent up aggression to her situation.

They said that 'a blade is a mirror that will reflect one's expression.' The moment she saw her reflection, how ugly and wrenched she looked, she simply ran out without attending the prize ceremony.

"What…What was I doing..."

She sought violence and turned her hard work into an ugly weapon. A simple aggression with no purpose for a swordswoman. She was a shame to all that she worked for…All that Ichika looked up to.

She again shakes her head. It would be great to dump the adhesive-like memories away, but the human heart can't do such a simple thing.

"This time, I will...I should be able to win without misunderstanding the meaning of the word strength..."

No, I have to win! For myself.

Small part of her however was looking at the prize on the line. A girl in love is a girl in love, after all.

"I see…So it is complete now, is it?" I replied to my phone. I was in the middle of the woods nearby IS Gakuen. I was in the middle of a phone call with my retainer, Kojuro about a secret weapon.

"Hai! All is well sir. Masurao should have access to be able to use it in battle. All you need now is to practice my lord."

"This is perfect Kojuro, as expected of my Right Eye and the heir of the Katakura family." I praised my loyal warrior.

"Your praise brings me and my family great honor. Thousand thanks for your praise my lord."

"Well…At least now my Masurao is at full strength. The full form of Masurao, First shift is now mine." I muttered happily. How could I not, for I got my newest, but always had, however never completed for usage tool. A weapon that has never been seen in the world of IS.

"I also heard how the GAE series weapons are done. Those are the weapons developed for Masurao and her right? Did you sent someone to deliver it to Yukihana?"

To clarify why I am giving Yukihana, a part of a rival gang and class a high grade weapon is that Takeda of Kai and DateGun of the Oshu are neutral or an enemy in a respectful term. Takeda Shime, the Kai no Tora offered my support group, the Katakura family with their own support. In exchange we are to make a special spear type weapon for Yukihana and WakaTora Custom.

Yukihana's Uchigane WakaTora is a customized IS that had its evolution limiter removed, by term of specs, it rivals Charles' Rafael Revive Custom II, however the Takeda family lacks the resources and data to make her a powerful weapon to fit the Waka Tora. The high vibration spear can only go so far and fail. To begin with those high vibration spears are only modified version of the Uchigane's standard vibration katana.

The Katakura's representative Kojuro and myself negotiated with the Kai no Tora for many days for this. The GAE series spear and lance are to be given to Yukihana and the ShinDateGun are to be given support, data, and resources of the Takeda family to develop my own secret weapon.

"Ah…The two final products of the GAE series weapons is finished and were sent to Sanada-san already my lord."

"Very good! They have live up to their part of the deal and so did we. Now all that there is left is to battle."

I said my good byes to Kojuro and put my phone away.

"I might have given the tiger's cub a new set of fangs…Fangs that might one day turn toward me." I muttered as I walked into the park.

---

"WHY ARE YOU A TEACHER HERE!"

"What a headache..."

Hoho…Those are voices I'm familiar with. One of them is Laura, the other should be Chifuyu-Nee's.

"Don't let me repeat this again. I have my duties to perform, that's all."

"What kind of duties can you possibly have in this small far-east country!"

I guess there's nothing else that can cause the ice-like transfer student Laura Bodewig to be so agitated. From what they're saying, Laura seems to be expressing her discontent about Chifuyu-Nee's current job and her idol worship like emotions of Chifuyu-nee.

"Yeaaah… Fan girls." I muttered in a dead panned tone. As you can see a fan girl is not someone I respect highly.

"Please instructor. Please come back to Germany to guide us. You can't even show off half your abilities here."

"Oh?"

Oh yeah. A 'Oh?' is right. No one beside me ever got to argue with Nee-chan and win…With a high cost.

"Basically, the students over here aren't worth teaching."

"Why?"

"They aren't prepared enough. They have too little sense of danger, they think that the IS is just a trendy thing, those low-class people aren't worth the time for instructor to te-"

"End of the line, little lady."

"Ugh...!"

Chifuyu-Nee's voice has a terrifying presence, and even Laura seems to be afraid of the huge intent hidden in the voice as she stops, unable to continue. It is only natural, for my sister is the noblest warrior and woman the modern era has to offer. A true and current pinnacle of might and beauty. Whose pinnacle of might, by the way I am aiming to surpass.

"To think that you believe you're rather good after we haven't met in a while, is it? Just 15 years old, and you think that you're superior to others. I'm impressed."

Ah there it is. Nee-chan's dreaded way with words to make you feel small and pathetic as shit. But it is still at level 1, wait till it gets to level 3. You will want to commit suicide.

"I, I'm..."

"Alright, it's time for lessons. Get back to the class."

"..."

With Chifuyu-Nee's voice reverting back to normal, Laura silently leaves quickly. She isn't good enough to argue with nee-chan yet…or ever by the way of the fate.

"Are you eavesdropping, the boy over there? I can't allow that abnormal fetish."

"Harsh Chifuyu-nee. A fetish? I can say a few things about your…"

*PAM!*

"In school, call me Orimura-sensei."

"Hai..."

My, my, the first conversation we had in few days and it starts off with a smack. How Orimura like.

"I am surprised thou, how did you sense me? I was suppressing my ki (or my fighting spirit) and killing intent all the way you know. I even shift to 'Sei" ki, the ki of calm to control my aura."

"You are a natural 'Dou' ki user. A user of aggressive battle ki of 'Dou' can't hope to master 'Sei' only after 5 years of using them. You are good, but not that good."

"Truly my sister is deadly. I thought since I was taught by the master of 'Sei' such as yourself, my skill was good enough."

Chifuyu-Nee blushed at my praise. Even if it was very faint, it brought a smile to my face.

"Alright, hurry up and move along, you low-grade student. If this keeps up, you'll be eliminated on the 1st round of the individual tournament. Don't forget to work hard."

"Oyi oyi! I am not a low grade student nee-chan. I am simply not motivated to study like a book worm. Speaking of book worm, remember the time when you were in middle school, Tabane-nee blackmailed you to wear that big, nerdy, spiral glasses, in your school uniform? She even forced you to braid your hair and she-"

I was cut off by an incoming fist, but I parried it and performed a low kick. My sister saw the attack coming a mile away and jumped back. I didn't falter as I threw in several high and low kicks and switched form Karate and Muay Thai.

Elbow, chop, block, kick, spin, punch, elbow, knee!

My sister was more traditional compare to me. She uses mostly Japanese martial art such as Karate, Judo, and Jujitsu, however her mastery of those arts are of a master class, while I am a journeymen. My rank was higher than those of high-class disciples to inherent the dojou name, but it was nowhere near master hood.

Nee-chan's strikes were fast and sharp. Her sword hand strikes were cutting air as if it were real swords. Her attacks were in a perfect and sold stance that were each carrying a power to break concrete boards and solid wood boards.

I dodged and blocked with my multiple mixed martial arts. At the time like this, multi-form can destroy the rhythm of a skill master. My sister didn't teach me any foreign arts, so her knowledge of my skills in all my styles were lacking.

I took control of the fight as I pushed her away from the road and into the forest. We now stepped into the dirt and leaves, instead of solid concrete road. Here are many sticks and roots that can hinder us, but I am used to fighting in such kind of fields.

I pounced like a tiger as I shifted into Chinese kenpo from Taichi to Shaolin, but my sister was more experienced. She managed to parry and dodge my Jineikwn-Nejiri Nukite!(God's fist, Spinning hand!) and Soutenshuu!(Double Wired Palms). As expected of Chifuyu-Nee, both were high level attacks of Chinese kenpo.

Nee-chan was a fighter of 'Sei' a style of ki using that involves controlled emotion, which is where Nee-chan picked up her poker face. She relies on calm mind and calculative moves in her fight. Her style is to throw clean, swift blows and parries and blocks in an agile and graceful way. On the other hand I am the aggressive fighter who uses emotions like a bon fire. Yuikhana, Rin, and I apply to this style for we are more open with our emotion. My style considers powerful blows with solid defense, a kind who relies on experience and instinct to push their way into the battle.

However, I am a 'Dou' fighter who uses 'Sei' as well. It is warned that a body cannot handle both Ki at the same time. For to do so it is same as forcing a waterfall to flow backward. Some elements were never meant to mix. To use both Sei and Dou mean that one's body will be used as a sacrifice for temporary power. It will be a crippling damage.

I on the other hand, only uses them separately. Which is hard as it is, for I am a naturally a Dou style. By learning Sei one can see the calmness in battle easier and one can conceal himself better. "Sei' also has the property to understand the mind of an opponent to predict their next move by their emotional state and aura. For 'Dou' on the other hand, we predict with our instinct and small signs such as the eye, twitch of shoulder or legs, and shifting of the stance.

I just happen to benefit from both, which is really hard, for even a master class can't just shift their Ki pattern. My masters told me I am special in that way.

Nee-chan managed to predict my next punch and countered it with a swift chop to the neck, but I noticed her shifting legs to foresee a spin back and a chop, so I ducked. I followed my body forward and did a back kick which almost nailed her. Chifuyu-Nee smirked as she performed a perfect step in to close our distance without leaving any room to counter. She then smashed my stomach in with a brutal upper cut.

"Hgh!"

I coughed as I stepped back, but my sister was relentless. I exploded into a combination of Muay Thai movements, which forced my sister to back off to avoid the deadly elbows and knees. I noticed that harsh and full movement of Muay Thai was tiring me out too fast. I immediately switched to Karate and followed up with a simple combination of punches, kicks and palms, however my beloved sister actually grabbed my extended punch in a masterful perception and accuracy to throw me over her shoulder.

"Oh this is going to HURT!"

'BAAAMMM!'

"…Owch!"

"You deserved it."

I only smirked as I hooked my leg between her own and tripped her to fall down as well. She managed to fall correctly, but I was on to her like a pouncing lion.

"Hee…My win." I told her as I straddled her to prevent her from killing me. But her glares were stripping me of my life span as it is.

"GET. OFF!"

Instead of fighting again, I simply smiled to her. My sister was amazing whether she is dirtied or has fallen.

I got up slowly, but didn't stand up as I laid my head on her lap. My face was facing the sky and the back of my head on her lap. My weight was no longer on top of her, but my weight on her legs prevented her from standing up.

"Ichika! What are you."

"I just want a lap pillow…I haven't done this in a while."

Nee-chan was speechless…but she slowly smiled. I really missed doing this. When I was younger, Nee-chan would let me sleep on her lap like this during picnic or after hard day of training. Back then it was only two of us, in a park or a wood, to enjoy the nature…like now.

"Is that so? That's good."

"Hee!" I smirked as I closed my remaining eye and lay there. I felt so comfortable and safe. Doesn't matter how old I get, Nee-chan's comfort is the best. I can smell that brand of shampoo and body lotion she uses and I can also smell her natural odor…it is very familiar and comforting to me.

"Nee-chan…"

"What is it?"

"Do you think…I reached high enough?"

Nee-chan had a mysterious smile on her face. I couldn't see a single trace of her serious self, and saw the kind and gentle sister of mine. She lifted her hand and patted my head. Her hand ever so gently comforted the top of my head and played with my hair. Her even gentle scratched the side of my eye-patch. If I was less dignified, I would have purred.

"You've gotten stronger…However you still need to grow much more."

"Ah…Naruhodo…Your sky is so much higher than mine, my sister…But that is why I am climbing this mountain to reach it."

I grabbed her hand as rubbed it against my cheek. A small, selfish part of me just wants to stop fighting…And stay like this forever. To simply stay with my most precious person. My warrior soul was drowned by this peace that is my big sister; however…I have too much regret to stop here. If I falter, than Nee-chan will be protecting me again. I don't want her to fight anymore…I will be the sword that slays her foes and her shield to protect her. I must become stronger…

I slowly got up after a while. I dusted myself and held my hand for nee-chan to help her up. She took my hand, but instead of helping her up I pulled her toward me.

"!"

Before she can say anything I kissed her on her cheek, however the location I planted the kiss was between her lips and her cheek, so it had mouth to mouth contact…Just a little. It was a light and soft peck, but it did its job. If I can't be here like this forever…Then I want to compensate for it with this. It might be simple and little, however it was good enough…for now.

"Ichika…"

"I just thought you can use a kiss." I told her with a smirk. I turned around and walked back to the class, leaving my speechless sister behind.

"What was I thinking…" I muttered as I walked away with my hands in my pockets.

If I stayed behind, I might have seen her blushing face and a look that seems unusual on my sister…Anyone else would have called it wanting or lustful.

""Ah.""

Both of them let out a dumbfounded voice-the time's after school, the place is at the 3rd arena, and the people involved are Rin and Cecilia.

"What a coincidence, I'm about to do some special training for the divisional tournament in order to win."

"What a coincidence. I was just thinking the same thing."

Invisible sparks flew between them. The Eye of the Sky glared at the Heavenly Dragon Goddess. It seems like both of them want to win.

"Now's a good opportunity to decide here, once and for all, who's better."

"Ara, it's rare for us to have a common agreement. Now we can use this chance to see who's stronger, and at the same time, who's more elegant."

Both of them summoned their main weapons and aimed them at each other. The ever elegant Archer took out her rifle which is her mighty bow and arrow. The swift Rider took out her great blades. Her mount was her armor and her mystery was her cannon which were proudly floating above her shoulder.

"Well then…"

"Let us…"

At that moment, a supersonic cannon blast came from above, blocking out their voices.

"!"

""NANI!""

After doing emergency evasions, Rin and Cecilia looked up at where the beam was shot from, only to see a pitch black machine standing over there.

The machine name was Schwarzer Regen, and the registered pilot was-

"Laura Bodewig..."

Cecilia looked unhappy as she braced herself, one reason being that another European Union competitor was here. She raised her Starlight MarkII top ward the offending enemy. Her sights are clear and focused. She can now target and snipe any enemy for she is the maiden of the bow and arrow, the Archer.

"...What are you doing? Firing a shot over here, that's really amazing…Amazingly rude and stupid."

*DONG!*

Rin raises the attached Souten Gagetsu up onto her shoulder and moved her Impact Cannons into standby mode. Her power lies in her invisible cannon impacts. She can fly or ride toward the enemy and bombard them with attacks they can't see. This is why Ichika secretly dubbed her as a rider, the cavalry.

"China's Shenlong and England's Blue Tears ...humph, I actually felt that they were only stronger on the data."

Hearing the sudden taunt, Rin and Cecilia scowled.

"What's the matter? You really like to fight, don't you? Coming all the way here from Germany just to get beaten. You must love being bullied. I heard from Ichika how you always target him, but fails. Trust me I've seen Yukihana tried for years, there is no way you can beat him in a straight fight. Just go back and work in the potato fields!"

"Ara ara Rin-san, that Missy doesn't seem to have much vocabulary, so don't bully her too much or it'll really seem pathetic. To fail to harm Ichika-san is rather normal, but please don't kick a down puppy. Even a beaten dog can whimper."

Laura's sharp glare of arrogance seemed to offend those two. Even so, they still tried to vent their anger with words. Of course to insult them is never a good thing to begin with.

But unfortunately, that was futile.

"Sigh...so they let two people who're so weak that they would lose to a mass-produced machine be personal IS pilots? It seems like they really lack talent despite the numbers…Your weak countries that can only be redeemed by your history."

*BOOM-!*

With the sound of something being cut off, Rin and Cecilia remove the final safety on their equipment.

"Yeah, yeah, I got it, I got it! She wants to be trashed and beaten! Cecilia, let's decide who should go first with janken!"

"Mn, well, I don't really care whether I go first or last-"

"Ha! Then how about both of you go at me? 1 + 1 equals 2 anyway. How can I lose to women who seem to be fighting over that disgraceful man?"

These words were obviously taunts, but having gone past their patience, both of them didn't care anymore.

""Ichika(san) being disgraceful? Oh now you've done it girl!""

"What did you just say? My ears just heard 'Please, punch me as much as you like'. That guy might be a gang leader and a fighting junkie, but he is anything but a disgraceful man! In this era of women, who wouldn't find a finer man than he is!"

"Insulting people who aren't here, I'm really ashamed of you as a fellow European Union candidate! To think you will insult Ichika-san's nobility, valor, and honor! Let me beat you up until that frivolous mouth of yours is shut for good."

Both of them tightly gripped onto their weapons, and Laura coldly stared at them before opening her arms out slightly and flipping her fingers.

"Come at me already."

""AS YOU WISH!""

The Archer and Rider joined forces to take on this new threat…The deadly Caster.

(Any FSN fans will roll in their grave on how Laura is a Caster candidate. Also Rin being a Rider…Just go with the flow.)

---

Charles and I were walking toward the nearest training area. It was in the middle of afternoon and I needed to practice my other skills. Masurao has been coaching me how to use her new weapon in our dream with a simulator, but I need to work on my sword play every day.

"Ichika, are you going for special training today?"

"Well, yeah, I remember the only arena that can be used is-"

"The 3rd arena!"

""WAH!""

The two of us jumped to the side as an unexpected voice called out the answer. Maybe she was unhappy with our united response, but the 3rd person who was standing beside us from who knows when, Houki frowns.

"...Is there a need to be shocked? That's rude."

"Ah, oh, I'm sorry."

"Houki, since when you were an Assassin? That is Charles job."

"Huh?"

"What?"

I meant it, when I think about it Charles was able to fool the government and the IS Gakuen with disguising herself as a guy. She is also skilled in many branches of combat from multiple guns and blades. She specializes in many fields. She is not a front line fighter in term of IS performance, but she is a tricky enemy who fools the enemy with her speed, rather than overwhelming power like Houki or Yukihana.

"Never mind, what's up?"

Houki just stared at me, but soon let out a snort and turned to address Charles.

"It ok, I'm not blaming you..."

Well it seem my little slip didn't bother the two as much I thought. Both of them knows of my habit of categorizing individuals in a certain class with their skills. Charles insisted she can be an Archer, but I insisted that her various skills to not fight directly make her more of an Assassin. Finally my argument that her mission to spy on me is an assassin worthy. Good thing is she took it as a compliment and let it slide.

"Anyway, let's head to the 3rd arena. I heard that there will be very few people using it today, so if there's time, I should be able to carry out some mock battles."

That is good news. Since the IS ability is proportionate to the actual operation time, it's great even if it's just a little time. I'm really grateful to have some training like a mock battle.

As we headed towards the arena, we found a lot of tension over there, and there were a lot of students running around in the corridor. It seems like the commotion happened at the 3rd arena.

"What's wrong?"

"What's going on? Should we check it out?"

Charles said as she pointed at the gate to the spectator stands. It's better to go there than to go through the ordinary gate, so I nodded my head in agreement. There by the rail was Yukihana cheering.

"Rin-san! Watch out!"

"Oyi! Sanada! What the hell is going on?"

Yukihana turned to me with a crocodile tears in her eyes.

"Ichika-dono! It seems Rin-san and Cecilia- san is having a mock battle, but the situation seems to be-"

*DONG-VROOM!*

Just as both of us turn to look at the sudden explosion, two shadows flew out of the smoke like they were cutting through it.

"Kore wa…(This is…)"

There in the smoke of the ruin I saw my two friends, and they were not looking good. I saw Rin's armor was banged up, but the Impact cannons were intact. Her armor was missing a few parts and shields, but it was clean compare to the grinder I put her into in our duel. Cecilia seemed dazed and her IS was damaged here and there, but her BTs were still all there. Like Rin, she seems better than what I dealt her, during our match that seems like a long time ago.

"RIN! CECILIA!"

Both of them looked hurt as they gazed directly at the center of the explosion, and standing over there was Laura, who was piloting the pitch-black IS Schwarzer Regen. In contrast to her opponents, Laura's IS wasn't completely unscathed, but the damage was relatively light compared to them.

"They are fighting Bodewig…But they are losing. How?"

Those two are no push overs, but to think they couldn't overwhelm Laura…This means one thing. Bodewig is an exceptional IS pilot.

*KLANG!*

"How is this!" roared Rin as she opened Shenlong's shoulders. Docked on them were the pressurized-air impact cannons Ryuho, the maximum output weapons of the Shenlong. If it were a training machine, one shot would definitely wreck it, but Laura wasn't avoiding at all."

"That's useless against the absolute barrier of the Schwarzer Regen."

The invisible shots of the impact cannons were aimed at Laura, but no matter how I looked at it, the attacks never landed on her. It seems there is an invisible barrier between them that is absorbing the impacts. An invisible weapon…a shield that can nullify the Dragon Roar. What kind of magic is this? It seems I found a category for Laura now; she is like a little magician with many tricks. A Caster is a worthy title.

"Che! To think that you can hold me off like that..."

She shot out blades from her shoulders at Rin's IS. As they were both linked to the main body by electronic cables, she was able to let them fly out in complicated paths to avoid the direct shots and thus grabbed Rin's right foot-they seemed to be weapons that were a mix between blades and cables. If I remember them correctly they are Slash Harkens.

"Do you think I'll let you do as you please so many times!"

Covering Rin, Cecilia attacked and launched her BTs at Laura. The nimble 4 pieces that made her IS an unique 3rd gen IS flew at the black paladin as it opened fire on it, however…

"Ho...I know that Blue Tears is said to have the highest mobility in theory, but treating that design as a 3rd generation frame? That's a joke."

Cecilia used accurate sniping and the BITs to launch attacks from all over the place, and Laura continued to dodge. The BITs attacked her from multiple angles as they casted a laser net that pushed Laura into mid-air. Laura expertly dodged the tricky bean attacks. She weaved and waved out of the traps and encasement. She fired a few shots from her cannon, but Cecilia was too fast, for such attack.

Cecilia sniped at the black IS with high level accuracy. The impaling beams of blue energy managed to slam the German girl's shoulder and leg. Laura lifted her hands to block the multiple shots from the front and the attacks by the BITs. It seems she is being pushed into a corner.

"That is enough!" roared the sliver haired girl as she extended her arm out like just before. This time, she seemed to grab something in front of her while she was folding her arms, and the moment she did that, the BITs stopped.

"Hooo…So the shield or barrier is casted by her hand. Perhaps this is her Anti IS weapon?" I thought out loud. It seems I need to interfere now. Awaken my sleeping servant. It is time to draw blood again.

"Your movements are sealed!" roared Laura as Cecilia's prized weapon was stuck in mid-air. Without her agile tools of war, this Sora no Mei's fighting capability decreases by half. Now Laura can focus on her front where Cecilia was sniping at her from the open, not a good position for a sniper.

"Yours too." Smirked Cecilia as she pulled her trigger to unleash the devastating shot of her beam rifle. Though Cecilia managed to snipe her target accurately, Laura shot her large cannon to completely negate it. The explosion from their attacks caused a large blast of fire and smokes. As the smokes concealed Laura and blinded Cecilia's sight, the Germany's little Caster stuck.

Laura threw Rin, who she caught with the Slash Harkens, at Cecilia, who intended to continue firing.

"Ah!"

Facing the two of them while they lost their balance in mid-air, Laura launched her attack. Her speed could be compared to a bullet as she closed in within a second.

"[Ignition Boost]-!"

Yep, that is the ignition boost alright. A special skill to get in close for close range combat, but why? The Schwarzer Regen has a freaking cannon, in CQC Rin's Souten Gatgetsu is at an advantage. However I understood 'why' as that girl unleashed a beam sword from her arm.

Laura hacked at Rin, but my little childhood friend countered it with her twin pair of daos. Too bad, because once again, Rin's lack of mastery made it difficult to keep up with Laura's more skilled sword work. While I labeled her as a Caster, she has the foundation for Assassin as well. Those movements were more based on an arm blade, or an Assassin's hidden blade, than that of a sword. It seems Houki is still the only Saber among my friend. I don't count, for I am a Berserker.

Why?

Because it is cool.

---

"You...!"

Rin was somewhat keeping up with agile Laura, but once that girl unleashed her six cable blades, the Slash Harkens. It will now tilt the scale between the girls. Not even Rin can defend herself in such an onslaught.

"Heh!"

Rin again deployed the impact cannons and gathered the power there.

"How naive! Using pressurized-air weapons that need time in this situation?"

As Laura said this, her cannons lowered its aim and destroyed the impact cannons before shooting. The Impact Cannon was blown to bits as the power it collected exploded on itself.

"AAAGGGHHH!"

"Got you!"

""!""

As the armor on her back got shot off, Rin's body lost balance and Laura used this chance to stab the plasma blade at her chest.

"I WON'T LET YOU!"

At the last moment, Cecilia rushed in between Rin and Laura and used the BITs as a shield. After avoiding the sure-kill attack, she shot the missile type BITs on her waist at Laura. I remember those being a real knock out, but hey, I met Masurao thanks to it.

*BOOMM!*

"Yep, it's those missiles alright, Right Masu-chan?"

"Yes master." Droned Masurao, it seems she is still sleepy.

---

Rin and Cecilia came out of the smoke in a hurry. They seemed dazed, but ok.

"That was reckless of you..."

"Save the complaints for later. But really, that should have done some damage-"

Cecilia stopped as she spoke.

As the smoke scattered, standing over there was Laura. Even though it was an explosion at close range, she was still floating in mid-air without a scratch.

"Is it over? Well then-it's my turn."

The moment she said that, she used the [Ignition Boost] to glide down to the ground, first kicking Rin and then shooting Cecilia with a cannon.

Then, Laura launched her Slash Harkens to grab their bodies and drag them to her. The other two struggled, but it was useless as the wires got around their neck and limbs. After that, one-sided violence ensued.

Laura's punch and kicks were causing some serious damages. It was simple drag and punch, but in close range those punches pack enough damage to dent IS armors and cause them to crack like an egg. At this rate it will endanger their lives! Well, not if I can help it!

"Hee..."

Seeing Laura's usual emotionless face actually smile for a moment due to delight, something seems to explode in me. I activated my IS, and in a micros second I was covered in my armor. My Akakami activated and I left in stealth mode. Laura didn't even detect me as my red manes floated against the wind to prevent any sensors from picking me up. I summoned my strongest treasure. The one weapon that can slay all, including barriers of this level.

"Kamikiri(God cutting)!"

With that word alone I silently sliced the barrier surround the field with My crimson beam katana, the Yukihira Akatsuki. I immediately dropped the Yukihira and summoned my pair of twin katana's. I threw my Shiki Kyodais like a boomerang and nailed Laura's shoulder and her damned cannon. Kuroshiki sliced into the cannon like hot knife to butter. The red heat saw blade tore into the cannon's interior damaging the mechanism to work against me. The Byakushiki stabbed into her right shoulder, which damaged her cable launcher. The three cable knives or Slash Harkens lost their energy coating on the cable and lost its booster function. It is now just a limb of metal and wires.

"What the!"

She had no time to be surprised as I stealthy and quickly appeared above her. I swiftly nailed her with a kick to knock her away. I picked up the Souten Gatgetsu and activated my special skill.

"KNIGHT OF HONOR!"

The two Daos turned black and were covered in red veins. I cut off the remaining cables on Cecilia and Rin, and then I stepped forward, protecting the two fallen girls as an unmovable protector.

"This is spar is over Laura…Any more can't be an enjoyable fight, but will turn into disgusting violence."

Laura's single red eyes narrowed, but underneath my helmet and the visor, my eye was rather cold too. My visor's left eye glowed orange as my armor let out a small stream of particles. Both of our IS were blacker than the night, but it is clear that mine has won in the intimidation contest. Laura's IS now with damaged shoulder and missing cannon was no threat to me.

"While attacking an enemy with their back turned is not my style...but at a time like this it can't be helped."

I twirled the Souten Gagetsu around me and held it behind me, with my arm around the pole and my elbows locked. I held out my free hand at a 'come on' gesture.

"You can try me for a size, Bodewig. I promise to go easy on you. No 3rd gen weapons."

She didn't like that. She snorted as she activated her plasma beam swords.

"Humph...emotional and arrogant, just like a fool."

"At least I don't take joy in beating a defeated opponent, but for a mere weapon, such honor and pride is perhaps too much asked from you. Pardon me as I can't compare you to a warrior. You are just a faker, who has gained too much power without a worthy cause."

She was now pissed off.

Laura blasted toward me with her swords drawn and aimed at my throat. I quickly parried her blows with my Souten Gagetsu, in it double headed blade mode. I spin the weapon above my head and took a deep swing to push Laura away. After making that distance, I started to jab and thrust at her with the voulge.

It was clear that even with her skill with those arm blades, I was better at CQC. I slammed the Souten Gagetsu's blade against her blades and actually got few decent hits in. However it all changed as she extended her arms again. I suddenly stopped my attack and found out that I couldn't move my body.

"This is!"

"As expected, you're not worthy of being my opponent. In front of this Schwarzer Regen of mine, you're just another weakling like them-disappear."

She posed her blades to impale it at my defenseless form, but this was all part of a plan.

"How is your side of the attack, Waka Tora?"

"Perfect, Ichika-dono."

Suddenly above Laura a shadow was cast as an IS dropped on her. It was a red Uchigane Custom, the WakaTora. In its hands were two new weapons she never used in a spar before.

For one, both new spears were not the standard tridents Yukihana favors. One spear was a long red IS spear with a sharp blade tip on the top. This was a classic spear, which was made to thrust. The spear had several carving of marks and parts on it, but it was emitting a dark red aura...Almost like my GN-Particles. The second spear was a short spear that was at least the half in length compare to the first one. It was identical style and design, but the difference was its length and color, which was yellow. This weapon on the other hand was emitting blue sparks from the tip.

Yukihana used both of these spears and jabbed it into air between me and Laura, effectively freeing me from my state of pause.

"What!" it seems Laura is shocked. Well I'd be too if my super weapon fails.

Yukihana expertly weld her two spears. If my eye wasn't fooling me, her swings are even faster than before. It seems her IS not only went through a new weapon upgrade, but was also fitted with new booster and stabilizers. The movement was more fluent than before and it seems that the Uchigane was now evolving as it should. Not only that, it seems Yukihana has been training to be even stronger. That is inspiring to see.

"Che...another small fry..."

'I won't say that...To any IS that relies on special shields and any IS's Absolute Barriers means nothing to Yukihana now."

It is true, which Yukihana will demonstrate.

The Tiger cub of the Kai rushed at Laura in a frontal assault. Laura smirked as she activated her barrier again. "Against my AIC, this is nothing!"

It seems Laura is sure that her Active Inertia Canceller will save her. She is in for a surprise.

As Yukihana approached, she extended her red spear, which hit the barrier...and pierced through it.

"NANI!" exclaimed all the spectators and Laura herself. As the red lance approached Laura's A.B activated immediately even if the lance didn't pierce through her armor to endanger her life. The red lance pierced at the A.B dropping Laura's shield point by a large margin. Yukihana didn't pause as she struck with her short lance which managed to gaze Laura's activated Absolute barrier.

"This is-" Laura was cut off as she saw the part of her Absolute Barrier which Yukihana's short lance hit was still activated…With a yellow scar on it. Laura also noticed how her shield points were dropping slowly by one point at a time. The Absolute Barrier…A safety net which exists to protect the lives of the pilots. A final barrier that is made of the IS' own shield points, which is their life line. For the AB to be activated means that their lives are in danger…Dangerous enough to activate the precious barrier which will eat away their points.

The fact that her A.B was still being activated even after she moved away from Yukihana raises a alarm. What is done to her IS?

"What is going on! Why is the Schwarzer Regen losing energy? "

I stared at Laura as she was bewildered by this phenomenon. I smirked as the fruit of Katakura corps' hard work comes into fruition…Even if those magnificent weapons are not mine to wield.

"The pair of Anti-IS weapon made from the GAE project...The result of this research was these two lance, the Gae Buidhe, the Yellow Rose of Mortality and Gáe Dearg, the Crimson Rose of Exorcism."

I raised my Yukihira at Laura as I dramatically sheathed my blade…There is no reason for me to fight her. To fight a crippled and tired enemy for sports is disgraceful.

Gae Dearg, the Crimson Rose of Exorcism was made by my Yukihira Akatsuki's principle as Barrier Null Attack. It was a spear version of my sister's Yukihira Shogoki(First Unit) and my Yukihira Akatsuki which forces the A.B to be activated. It also has anti-beam or anti-energy manipulation features. It is made to disturbed any collection of energy, which is why it was able to cancel the AIC's effect. If Cecilia were to shoot a beam at it, it will split the beam into two parts with its deadly edge. This weapon uses the GN-particles collected in the shaft as the source of barrier nullification. It uses Yukihana's own Shield Energy to power itself, so it is a double edged sword or a spear in this case. It isn't powerful as Yukihira Akatsuki, but it is effective.

If there was a weakness, it will be the energy consumption and the fact that the nullification can only be done at the blade part of the lance.

The second lance is Gae Buidhe, the Yellow Rose of Mortality. A short lance made to inflict 'an open wound' on the IS' Absolute barrier. It has an electric tip blade which damages the enemy; however its real power lies in its power to force the Absolute Barrier to remain activate, all while losing energy bit by bit. It can't force the A.B to activate on its own. It only works after hitting an Absolute Barrier. Unless it manages to dig into the enemy far enough to force them to activate the Absolute Barrier, Yukihana can just stab the yellow lance after the red lance forces the A.B to form. In a prolonged battle the victim will literally bleed to death. However if she strikes another A.B on the IS, then the old wound will close and appear in front of the new wound.

If Yukihana causes one of these open wounds and stabs the Gae Dearg into it...it will truly be a Nigeki Kessatsu , A Certain Death in Two Steps.

Yukihana thrust her red lance at the open wound on Laura's IS and caused her IS to lose a tremendous amount of shield points.

"Tsk!"

It seems she realizes the danger of Yukihana, as it is, there isn't any enemy Yukihana can't beat. She is now armed with a pair of spears that can beat anyone. Her every thrust is a danger, while she loses energy using Gae Dearg, but the enemy doesn't know when the ability is activated. This way Yukihana can preserve her energy as she attacks. If she uses Gae Dearg's ability the whole match, she might win faster, but against a skilled enemy, she will deplete her energy and shield too much.

However against an enemy who isn't experienced in lance combat, she holds all the cards. Well against me, it wouldn't be so easy thou. I can see that Yukihana's shield point was now a 500pt and that was after using Gae Dearg's ability three times. Every time she uses a shield null attack…a 100 shield point is used. So she can safely use it 7 times or less.

"How are the two of them, Charles?" I called out behind me.

Yukihana and I were covering Charles as she checked on the two girls. I hope they are ok.

"Ugh...Ichika...I lost."

"I let you...see me get embarrassed out there...I have no excuse."

"Focus Ichika, but there's no problem. They're still conscious."

Charles responded with a somewhat relaxed tone, but she didn't let her guard down. This German girl is that good, however I doubt she can get away from Yukihana, after all I softened her up with my Shiki Kyodais before she started her assault. Schwarzer Regen is in no shape to battle anymore.

But that cunning Caster fooled me and went over my expectation as she tackled Yukihana after slamming her beam saber against her spears. She dashed passed the dazed tiger's Cub and flew at me.

"YOOOOUUUU!"

"I don't enjoy beating those who are weakened, but…"

I slowly raised the Souten Gagetsu in twin Dao form. I prepare myself for my hissatsu(Sure Kill/Certain Kill), the Kyuu Geki Issatsu(NINE HITS ONE KILL).

This attack is my own special move as it is a mixture of nine different sword blows that are aimed to kill or cripple. An attack that covers all nine direction of a sword strike. It is a hitokiri(Man Slaying) kenjutsu that covers the two horizontal, two vertical, four diagonal and even the thrust. In total nine hits and nine areas that can kill a man.

This was actually originally a hand to hand technique I named. It was a combo attack that has mix of all the martial art attacks I learned over the years. It has Karate, Muay Thai, Jujitsu, Tae Kwon Do, Chinese Kenpo, False Drunken Constitution, Taichi, Pencak Silat, and finally some minor boxing combined in one technique. When I used it against the unknown IS during my fight with Rin, it tore through it. This time I will be a little bit gentler. By the way…The sword version needs a new name. I wonder what? I used to rarely and never named the sword version of Kyuu Geki Issastu.

Oh well, slice first ask questions later.

I raised the two daos and released my killing intent to its maximum peak. My body was emitting the will to slice, shred and slaughter my enemy. My IS was releasing the red mists, but any skilled warrior can feel my 'Dou' ki spiking like mad…ready to attack. Just as Laura was about to rush in, to be grind to pile of crap by my sword storm, a figure jumped in between us.

*CLANG!*

As the sound of metal could be heard, that figure stopped Laura's plasma saber and her appearance alone stopped me from swinging the twin daos. I swung fast, however I nearly tore my arms off to redirect the slice to the ground causing a loud explosion of impact as it tore out the ground beneath me. My twin swords scarred the very earth in its path. My attack harmed no one, but maybe my IS and I…It is straining to stop such wide body motion. However I won't dare to harm this person…I rather cut out my other eye and die in disgrace than harming her.

"...My my, it's because of little things like this that I grew tired of handling kids."

"Chifuyu-neesama…"

To think that Nee-chan will interfere. Not only that she was holding onto a long IS sword easily, and that was a huge sword that was 170cm in length, all without the use of an IS too. My sister is truly amazing.

She fearlessly got between my sure kill technique which she knows very well…She helped me develop my Kyuu Geki Issatsu's martial art form and has seen my sword version against the mysterious remote controlled IS after all.

"It's fine to have mock battles-but, to the extent of destroying the barriers of the arena? As a teacher, I can't stand by that. You can finish this battle at the individual division tournament."

"Since the instructor says so..."

Laura nodded in obedience and got rid of her IS. Her armor scattered into particles of light and disappeared. She is so obedient, that it hurts my eye.

"Orimura, Sanada, Dunois, is that fine with you three?"

"Hai, nee-chan…Yukihana, sheath your spears. Charles lets go."

I sheathed the Souten Gagetsu and folded my arms across my chest. I closed my eye and felt my armor fade into the red mists. Charles nodded as she picked up Rin and I picked up Cecilia. Yukihana seemed down, but she cuddled her spears as she turned off the WakaTora, it seems she really likes those killer lances. I agree and understand her, because I kind of feel envious at such powerful treasures. Now Yukihana is officially a powerful faction in the academy. In term of IS performance it is same as Charles Rafael Revive Custom II. However unlike Charles, it has a pair of 3rd generation level Anti-IS weapons. She better be happy.

"In that case, until the individual division tournament, all personal battles are forbidden. Dismissed!"

*PA!* Chifuyu-nee forcefully clapped her hands, and it sounded as loud as a bullet being shot. I simple bowed to her ruling, for I am her loyal brother.

"..."

"..."

We're now in the infirmary, and it's been an hour since what happened at the 3rd arena. Rin and Cecilia have completed their treatment, and now that they're bandaged, they're staring everywhere except to me.

"It would have been alright even if you hadn't saved us."

"We could have won if it had continued."

Oh please forget about thanking me, I didn't just save your butts from Laura's mercy. Honestly these two are prideful as one could get, but it isn't a bad thing. For a warrior, such defeat against an opponent one they have not acknowledged as a worthy enemy will sting like no other.

"I am just glad the three of us intervened at the right moment. It seems you guys will be fine in a few days,"

"These injuries are nothing-OWW!"

"It's really meaningless to lie down here-EEKKK!"

...Are these two idiots? Their bodies must feel as if they are laying on a bed of needles. The Absolute Barrier preserved their lives, but Laura's one sided beating was no small matter. Their muscles will be sore for few days, but nothing a good rest and a massage can't fix.

"I will appreciate it if you two don't move around like an idiot after gaining such injuries." I told them.

"WHO ARE YOU CALLING AN IDIOT! YOU MORON!"

"YOU'RE A BIG IDIOT, ICHIKA-SAN!"

"Don't be shameful! For a warrior being defeated by a powerful opponent is nothing to be ashamed of." Said Houki with her arms across her chest. I was rather surprised at her words because she used to be really sore about how I beat her in kendo in our practice…You are such an hypocrite Houki-chan, but I love you anyway.

"Houki-san is right! Don't feel down and try again! I mean, look at me. I lost to Ichika-san many times, but I don't feel bad. I never gave up on beating him!"

Spoken like an experienced veteran, or a winner. At least Yukihana is in a good mood. Most likely because by all means, she was the one who has beaten Laura with her new lances. Even if I softened her up a lot, before letting the Tiger's Cub loose.

It seems Cecilia and Rin know this too and glared at her. At least Yukihana knows when to avoid a battle… Well most of the time anyways. (Just a small reference to chapter 9 for those who don't understand.)

Charles walked up to them with a trail holding two cups of drinks. She handed them to the two patients.

"It must be quite embarrassing for you two to show such an awkward side to the person you like."

"Huh?"

Hooo…It seems she seemed to say something, but I couldn't hear it. I wonder why, I'm standing right next to them.

But it just seemed like I'm the only one, as Rin and Cecilia just blushed and started to rampage after hearing something. Honestly they should act more like a patient and lay still.

"W-WH-WHA-WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT? I DON'T UNDERSTAND AT ALL!"

"I-I-I WASN'T TRYING TOO HARD! IT'S UNCOMFORTABLE HEARING YOU MAKING GUESSES LIKE THIS!"

Like I said, they are acting too energetic for those who just got their ass kicked. Well…At least they are still full of energy huh.

"Here, Oolong tea and red tea. Drink something to calm down, okay?" Ah…As expected of Charles, she is very considerate. Truly a fine woman…Where did that come from?

"Master you are hopeless…"

"Huh? I am what? What the hell do you mean by that?"

"…"

I was ignored.

Rin and Cecilia stared at Charles offer and snorted as they crossed their arms around their chest.

"H-Humph!"

"I'll accept it reluctantly then!"

Rin and Cecilia snatched the drinks Charles served up and opened the bottles, gulping them down in one go. Hey now…At least say thank you.

"Well, sensei did say that you two can go back after calming down, so rest for a while-"

*DON* *DON* *DON* *DON* *DONG...!*

"Wh-What? What is that sound?" I asked. I felt a disturbance from the hall way. By the quake-like sound came from the corridor… it seemed a large group of people are getting close. I couldn't feel any hostile intent, but I felt…excitement and anxiety.

*BAM!* The infirmary door got sent flying. I was so surprised that the door flew I put my hand to my side automatically. Too bad I didn't have my sword. It seems Houki and Yukihana had a similar reaction. It seems as martial artists we had the same reaction to sudden appearances.

"Orimura-kun!"

"Dunois-kun!"

Entering the room were-several girls who came in like a horde of stampeding boars. The mass amount of people surrounded and filled up the small infirmary. Oyi oyi…this is the resting place for the sick you know. Please be more considerate.

"Oyi! What is the meaning of this?"

"Wha-What's going on? Everyone...pl-please calm down."

"""This!"""

Facing us while we're still confused, the girls handed over the emergency news and registration form.

"Wha-What...?"

"'In order to make the battles more realistic, the individual division tournament this month will be done in pairs. Henceforth, all those without pairs will have a partner selected for them in the lottery. The deadline is'..." Oh? What an interesting idea. A double team match huh…I can deal with that no problem.

"Pair up with me, Orimura-kun!"

"Dunois-kun, be partners with me!"

"Orimura-kun lets be a couple!"

"Dunois-kun you will work with me right?"

"Orimura-kun!"

"Dunois-kun!"

Agh! As always the two males(Far as they know) are the target of attention. I need to do something about this now!

"Huh, well..." shuttered Charles as she took a step back.

Ah~ha! That's right, Charles' actually a girl, so it will be bad no matter who she pairs up with. As the pairs will have to train together, her real identity might be exposed. So I thought as I looked at Charles, who was staring back at me with a bothered look. After our eyes met, it seemed like she knew I understood her plea for help as she looked away.

"Ah…How can I say this…I'm sorry everyone, but I'm pairing up with Charles."

Utter silence...the sudden silence caused me to back away somewhat. Ugh, so this idea can't work? If negotiation fails…draw blood!

"Well, can't be helped if that's the case..."

"It's better than teaming up with other girls..."

"A picture of two guys together is more beautiful...ahem."

It seem like they accepted it, and there is no need to draw my blade. The girls leave the infirmary one by one. I can still hear a commotion on the corridor. These girls are easy to convince huh.

"Kore wa, kore wa..."

"Well, about that, Ichika-"

"Ichika!"

"Ichika!"

Charles started to speak as I finally heaved a sigh of relief, but Rin and Cecilia jumped off the bed and overpowered her with shocking pressure. They actually got off their bed and grabbed on to my back.

"Pa-Pair up with me! Aren't we childhood friends?"

"No, I'm your classmate!"

Both of them seem like they're about to strangle my neck. Kora! An injured person should lay in bed and rest! What will you do if your wounds worsen?

"You shouldn't."

Huh? This voice is…Yama-pi!

Yama-han walked in with a clipboard in her hand. She had a serious expression on her face…If seem the warrior in Yamada-sensei is out again. She is very serious. It is good to see the true and more powerful side of my teacher.

"I just confirmed the state of both your ISs. The damage level sustained by both of your IS's have exceeded phase C. If you don't focus on recovering, there will be fatal problems later on. Take it as rest for your ISs, I won't allow you two to participate."

Hooo…I expected some damages, but I was hoping it was below Rank D. But at C…It will take time for the IS to heal and to be refilled to a regular level. This is unfortunate, because I was hoping for an official rematch. Anyway can the two representative candidates with burning will accept this? I guess not...

"Ugh, ku...! I-I got it."

"I'm not willing...not, not at all! But I'll withdraw from the tournament..."

What? They actually accepted it...why? IS the sun rising from the west and setting toward the east? Could it be! Chifuyu-Nee is bringing home a boyfriend? NO! Where is my anti-boyfriend sword…the rusty one with jagged edges that will hurt a lot! KOJURO! MOBILIZE THE ARMY! WE ARE HUNTING FOR THE BOYFRIEND! I will kill him myself! (xTenchix: RELEASE THE HOUNDS AND THE KILLER RABBIT! XD)

"Sensei's happy that you can accept it. If you use the IS past the limits, you have to pay the price. It'll be bad if you lose the chance at the opportune time, and sensei doesn't wish for you two to become like that."

"Yes..."

"I got it..."

Well…Though both of them look like they can't accept Yamada-sensei's serious lecture, at least they recognize that they can't participate in the tournament. It is good to see that they have healthy respect for the teacher. Am I not right Yama-chi?

Anyway, back on topic, I asked Rin and Cecilia what I wanted to ask,

"So I have a question for the two of you. why did you two fight against Laura?"

"What, nothing, that's because..."

"Eh, well, how should I explain this...because we females got our pride hurt."

"Hm?"

Why is it that both of them look like they can't swallow it? I suppose it's a one side started battle after a taunt, but as representative candidates of different countries, isn't it bad to act after a taunt? Well…If it was a battle for their pride then who am I to tell them off! There are two reasons to battle! For your pride and to achieve a goal! To fight for either is a good resolve and reason!

"Ah, don't tell me it's about Ichika-"

"Huh? Charles you know something? I wasn't paying attention."

"Ahh! You're being a loudmouth, Dunois!"

"Tha-That's right! Really! Ahhahaha!"

It seems I was right. Charles seemed to finally realize something, but those two girls quickly stopped her from saying it. Charles' mouth is cupped by those two as she struggles painfully. Those two…are they really hurt? They move too well for bunch of sick people.

"Kora! Stop it both of you! You're wounded here, and yet you were moving non-stop since just now...Oi!"

Trying to calm them down, I reach my hands out to grab Rin and Cecilia on the shoulders. Oops! That wasn't smart of me.

"EEEKKK!"

As expected, it's painful. I just saw them shriek out and freeze. I feel ya. There was a time I was so injured a slightest touch brought me down. Rin, was there too. It was after my fight with…That Guy.

"..."

"..."

"Ah…I bet it hurt a lot."

Seeing them remain silent as tears well up in their eyes, I can roughly understand how painful it is. However I also thought that the looks on their faces all while holding back their tears…Looked cute. Huh? Where did that come from?

"I-I-Ichika...you..." Rin growled out. Her eyes are sharp! Sharp enough to cut!

"Yo-You...you better remember this..." Hoho…Cecilia's killing intent has flared! It is impressive for an amateur.

Kora wa, kora wa…Such is my life.

---

"Th-Then, about that, Ichika."

"Hummm? Is there something wrong?"

After dinner, as we headed back to the room, Charles finally spoke. Maybe it's just me, but she sounded really forceful. I wonder if I did something wrong?

"Well, it may be a little late, but...thank you for helping me at the infirmary. You said that you would be my partner for the tournament. I'm really grateful about that."

"Ah, about that? Hn, no need to worry. I'm the only one who knows the truth, so it's right for me to support you, right?"

"That's not it. Ichika…You are a strong person. You don't fear what others fear and always know what to aim for. You gather strong people around you and those people desire to stand by your side. You are strong and yet very kind…When others might have given up on me and turn their backs to me, you bravely stuck to my side, allowing me to rest under your wing…Boku wa…I am grateful Ichika."

I shyly scratched my eye-patch…Whoa, she is making me blush. That's a first.

"Ah…Well…Thank you Charles…Oh yeah! Charles, you don't have to deliberately use such a boyish-tone to talk to me when I'm around."

"Hn, hn, well I-I do think this way, but before I came here I had to study a boy's movements and speaking habits in order to 'avoid showing my real identity', so it may be impossible for me to change it back."

The one who taught her all these would be Charles' father, that trash that used his daughter like this…I really will kill him. I got my anti-boyfriend sword somewhere and it can always be renamed to anti-jackass of a father sword. (xTenchix:Why the hell not for both? Saves room for an extra sword)(Fangking2: Who do you think will be willing to forge another one of such cursed blades?)

"Bu-But that's...not really like a girl, is it?" Looking dejected, Charles looked around as she asked me timidly. Ah she looks like a sad puppy.

"Hm? Are you talking about how you keep using 'boku'?"

"That, that's right. It's not what a girl would say, so I'll try my best to use an ordinary method to speak while we're alone."

"Hummp there is no need. You are a girl, and the way you speak is rather cute too.

"Cu-Cute...? Me? Re-Really? You're not lying to me?"

"I'm not lying. This Doukugan Ryu always meant what he says. Trust me."

"Re-Rea...Really-that's alright, I guess."

Though I didn't really know what was going on, it seemed like she is unsettled for a minute, then it became alright. I wonder if she is ok?

"Oh yeah, a lot of things happened today. Let's change then."

"Oh, Then I'll go out then." I said to her as I walked toward the door. I was about to walk out until Charles stopped me.

"Huh? Why?" she asked in confused tone.

I turned back to face her with my eye brow raised. It was rather obvious isn't it?

"Well, you can't change when I'm around, right? It will be rude for a guy to be next to a girl when she is undressing."

"Huh? It's fine. I feel bad for Ichika. Well...I don't really feel bothered..."

"Regardless, it isn't right." I told her.

"Bu-But...well, since we're both guys, people might think it's weird if one of us were to go outside, right?"

Ah...That's true. It will look weird and this kind of topic doesn't need unwanted attention from others. Better comply for now.

"Well, that's true... I'll change as well then." I needed to get out of my IS suit anyway.

"Okay, let's do that."

Charles smiled. Her face must be getting somewhat hot as it's flushed to a certain extent, I guess being next to a guy while she was changing is too unexpecte4d. Gomen na.

I turned around to get my fresh clothes out. I turned back to Charles and she flushed seeing my face.

"I, I'll be changing then..."

"Ah...Go ahead."

I turned around once again to change. However the scent from her was noticeable now.

"Ugh, not good...that's a sweet smell over there..."

Though I felt nothing before, after I knew that Charles was a girl, I can pick up a gentle and seductive aroma in our room. This is an armor I smelt before...Oh man.

That's right, it's the aroma a girl has. I sweet scent that us dudes can feel when we are sensitive enough to our environment...This is a blessing and a curse.

"Kore wa...Is it the so-called pheromones? I got to admit it isn't bad."

"Master...You are a freak!"

"W-What? What did I do?"

"You are sensitive enough to or should I say, active enough to notice how a girl smells! What other fetishes do you have! Let me check again!"

"Wah! You idiot! Some of those are private!"

I need some kind of mental wall to protect my inner thoughts, but Masurao is my inner thought these days...I can't hide anything from her. She will just dig through my mind for answers.

"I got it! How about the china dress? Maybe the prison clothing with the restrain!(C.C from code geass) I'll try the India's sari dress with tanned skin combo! I can do those native dances too! If that don't work than the Hawaiian leaf skirt with sexy tops!I got great hips master and don't forget I can change my three sizes at will! Just watch! I can make all your dirty fantasies come true you Hentai Master!"

"That's not it! Don't touch that! WHAT IMAGE ARE YOU PLAYING INMY HEAD? MASURAO!"

"I-Ichika, aren't you changing?"

"O-Oh, oh yeah, I'm changing now."

I better ignore Masurao's complaints for now.

Hearing her say that, I suddenly realized that I was spacing out while I was talking to Masurao. Well, I better change fast.

"...JJJJJJJIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII..."

Stare...jjjiiiiiiiii...Stare

Is it my imagination? For some reason, I feel that someone's staring at me from behind. I know I am not mistaken, because I survived through many ambushes and spying thanks to this sense.

"Charles?"

"Wah! Wh-What's wrong?"

"I'll apologize first if it's just a mistake, but are you staring at me?"

"No, of course not!"

"I, I see."

She is lying.

She vehemently denied it. But my senses which were horned by constant danger can't be fooled! At least give me some credit where it's due.

"..."

Stare-

...Dunois-san? Is there a problem?"

"No peeping."

"Ah? I-I'm not, I was-ah!"

(!Sound of crashing!)

Was that a sound of something falling and crashing? I can hear Charles' soft whimper, and I instinctively turn around to check on her.

"Oi! Daijiobu(You ok?)?"

"Oww...I tripped...huh?"

"Huh?"

Oh man...I may have seen something neat, but it is wrong to do so...I am in trouble now.

It turned out that Charles got tripped by the pants and fell onto the floor. The problem was her posture; she was wearing the tight bra she would normally wear while she's in guy's clothing, and at the bottom, besides the pants that are pulled down to the knees, there are ...Innocent white panties.

Yes Gentlemen...innocent...White...Panties.

I am blesses and I am cursed.

As Charles lost her balance and fell onto the floor, she was on all four limbs to prevent herself from getting hurt. However her postured ended with lifting her butt toward me...I can see everything.

"WAH-"

Damn it! It's bad for us both if there's a girl's cry in here!

I rushed toward my roommate in hopes to muffling her cries with my hand. I quickly cover the distance between us and put my hand on her mouth. For a second it seemed to work...However it seems when I rushed towards her, I might have been too rough. She was pushed by me gently, but as her legs were trapped by her pants she fell easily.

Naturally she grabbed for something to pull herself up. And that something was me.

"Kya!"

"Damn it!"

We fell to the floor and this is where the real trouble began.

When we fell I was on top of her and frankly I tried to soften her landing with my arms. I tried to absorb the impact, but my hands happened to be where her butt landed. Good new I used my instinct to act for me to turn my hand to bend naturally alongside her fall, instead to bending in an unnatural way and break. Bad news...I can cup her butt with my hand.

Oh Yeah...I even gave it a squeeze to make sure I was not dreaming. Charles was surprised at my sudden action, but she was scared enough to grab my neck and pull me toward her. My head was between a girl's chests again...This hasn't happen since Yamada-sensei. I could feel her melons being constrict by her bra and felt the warmth between her chests. I can feel the blood rushing into my head. Her legs were wrapped around me as she tried to use my body as a comfort pillow. It seems she doesn't realize fully on what kind of situation we are in.

"Huh?"

It seems Charles realizes our position.

I lift my head from her chest and looked into her eye. Her violet eyes were in shock, but it slowly turned to a moist teary look. Suddenly out of the blue, her eyes realized what position she is in by holding me in so close. Her conscious faded and Charles the womanly instinct appeared.

She instinctively started to hit me on my head.

"Pow!" fist to the head.

"Wait! Char-"

"Bang!" elbow to the side.

"I a-am sorry!'

"Pang!" palm to the face.

"D-Don't!"

"Pow!" upper to the chin.

"Ow! Charles st-op!"

"Smash!"

Chopping right, slap version on the top of my head.

"Charles!"

"POW!"

"..."

I was slapped by Rafael Revive's IS arm...That was the worst bitchslap I ever felt...

"..."

"Hero Hero-Sound of eyes spinning in exhaustion"

Charles put the unconscious Ichika on the bed and blushed as she changed into her nightwear.

She was looking angry, embarrassed and somewhat happy, and it was rather complicated and weird.

"Re-Really, Ichika's always looked like this, and yet he's..."

Though she knows that Ichika didn't do it on purpose, Charles still can't hold back her emotions.

That was just an accident. It was nothing much, but she still felt angry for treating it as a simple coincidence. It was all done by her woman's instinct! If it is done for by her womanly instinct, then all is right!

At least that is what is she telling herself.

"A-Actually, I wouldn't..."

Saying up to that, Charles finally recovered, and after noticing what she was about to say, her cheeks blushed again. She looked like she wanted to shake off the redness on her face as she shook her head forcefully.

"Ah, Ichika no Baka… What am I going to do?...Whatever, I'm going to sleep! Yes! That's for the best!"

Looking away from Ichika, Charles turned off the lights in the room. As the room immediately became dark, her eyes couldn't adjust immediately.

And maybe because she couldn't see Ichika's face, Charles became unexpectedly daring. The warrior maiden inside of her whispered to be brave...for her own sake. She turned back to Ichika…She can still somewhat see his sleeping face. She can still picture his black hairs, and his eye-patch covering his old wound. She heard about his injury from other personal IS users, but she never found out how…Maybe from his past fights as a gang member?

She still has a hard time believing that Ichika is a gang leader, but other girls confirmed that his followers actually show up during his matches to cheer for him. Rin-san even told her of his older adventure as the rookie fighter, who challenged older gangs and martial artist to test his skills. He was like the hero from a movie …That Ichika.

She kneed down and got closer to his sleeping face…Well it was more like knocked out face, but she isn't picky like that…No! Not because she knocked him out! Never!...Maybe.

"W-What am I doing...This is indecent!"

Charles thought as she closed in on Ichika's face and stared at him. Both of them are less than 5cm away from each other. Charles could feel the breathing and even the body temperature of Ichika, and that caused her heart to pound faster.

"..."

Then, she remembered what Ichika said to her with a serious expression earlier.

"...If that's the case, just stay here."

-That was the first time someone said that to her.

"If you're so called home is an throne cage, then stay with me in my blue sky. Then there is no bar to hold your back and no thrones to cut your wings. If you want to be free then fly under my sky..."

The first time anyone welcomed me with open arms, beside my late mother.

"What's there to fear? If you desire to stand own your own, without restrain from that father of yours, then stand under my flag with my protection. That is all there is to it."

Ever since her mother died, she had lost her only place of refuge. As her blood-related father only gave her a stifling ice chamber feeling, she could only pretend to live in the light.

She no longer felt that she was wanted, continuing to live through the grey cold life. She was a doll...A doll that can never smile.

"This is not France. This is Japan. The Land of the Rising Sun. A nation where the ideals of bushido and samurais were born! Your father? What of him? In here he is only a man! A one man who dares to challenge me? I swore long ago that those who are under my protection, that they will be protected by my own two hands until the end of my days!"

When the order her father gave her to go to Japan was finalized, she had no special emotions about it.

However-

She met a boy.

He is a boy, who perhaps dreams too big.

He looks toward the rising sun and intends to grasp it in his hand.

He is a punk, yet he is a warrior.

He is a man who was born to be a leader.

He was a dragon in disguised in the form of a human.

He is a knight that protects the weak.

He is a sword that cuts evil.

He is a warlord who aims for the highest mountain and the vastest sea.

He is a champion for his people and he is the pride of his followers.

He is the Nidaime Doukugan Ryu...He is a Young Conqueror...Who seeks to be the King of Conquest.

His name is...Orimura Ichika.

---

"He's really sneaky, that Ichika." Charles muttered under her breath.

Charles again stared at Ichika for a while and showed a gentle look. Then, she reached down lower...lower...lower to his lips. Toward the lips of a man who has single handedly taken her breath away. He who single handedly has given her a reason to stand again. The man that promised to give her a sky and to keep her away from the thorny cage.

She gently planted a kiss on his lips. A gentle kiss that is a kiss of gratitude if you will. Any further is unwise...Too quick...Perhaps...later. When her heart truly settles for this man...When she can property said how she feels to him directly.

"Good night, Ichika..."

Charles hugged her body that continued to burn hot through the rest of the night.

---

Deep within Ichika's soul.

In his mindscape was a large castle...A Japanese castle to be exact. It was grand as it was majestic.

"...You are bold aren't you?" whispered the red haired samurai. She was on a high class sofa with a cup of sake in her hand. She was dressed loosely in her red and yellow hakama and her hair was untied. Her red eyes were staring into a screen in front of her. Her expression was unreadable as she was rather...Upset. She was in her adult form and her appearance was releasing adult appeal that her regular self lacked, or perhaps concealed before. Her very presence was better described a...longing.

"Master has taken you under his protection, so I will not harm you...However...This Masurao doesn't like to have any rivals." Masurao pout as she threw away her sake cup as she stood up. The sake cup smashed into the corner and let out a loud noise of glass breaking.

"You may all fall for my Master, but you will never understand him as this Masurao can. When you all fall behind and perhaps even leave him, unable to bare his burden. When all of you proven to be undeserving of his attention and is cast aside. I Masurao will always be wanted by Master. Master will never throw away Masurao, for Masurao is bonded to Master forever and ever..."

Masurao turned to the side and looked up.

"Sister...Master is in need of your help now...Please see to this immediately."

---

"..."

From the other side of the mindscape, away from the home of the crimson samurai, was a young girls by a river. Her white dress flipped against the wind. She looked up as well.

"I understand...It is time for me to help master too. This &#$%(!*&, will serve our lord faithfully."

The Silver maiden turned to the reflection of the water. There she could see her master...It is time to speak with him once again. Hopefully, soon he can hear her voice and let her see the world like her younger sister.

---

How is it? Good? Bad? REVIEW!

Now the cast for seven servants are complete and the epic fight that will not go as canon will began. look forward to it!

Houki: Saber

Cecilia:Archer

Yukihana: Lancer

Rin: Rider

Ichika: Berserker

Charles: Assassin

Laura:Caster

Few others

Chifuyu: Saber

Tabane: Caster

Yamada: Assassin

Tatenashi:Lancer

Prez's sister...What class does she fit in? As for Rin being Rider...Honestly Rider class are overwhelming calvary, which fits Rin. Also her style of fly and slash in the passing, can be considered as calvary. It might not be convincing, but I can't think of anything else.

Also Anti-boyfriend and Anti-father sword is what i imagined as Zaraki Kenpachi's jagged katana...Oh yeah...It will hurt alot.