Chapter 8/9- The Class Rep Cup

Foreword- Hello *awkwardly waves* it's me, Mayflower Productions, author of Infinite Loner. This time I decided to again combine two chapters into one super installment, since chapter 8 was a bit short, and I had all the material prepared beforehand. Today we finally finish up the first canon arc of Infinite Loner with our two male pilots squaring off against the ojou-san and the grand reveal of the loner's personal IS. I spent a long time working on its design and gone through multiple revisions so I hope everyone will enjoy what I've created. Remember Infinite Loner is not a carbon copy of Infinite Stratos so any inconsistencies from here on out can be attributed to the Butterfly Effect or the magical power of AU. If you're not familiar with the source material, don't worry, as everything will make sense eventually. Just like last time there will be a preview, but it's a little different, so stick around to the end. Well, I've been rambling long enough so... Welcome to Infinite Loner Chapter 8: He Suffers the Consequences of Others' Actions.

Infinite Loner- line break, POV shift "When it comes to losing..."- Dialogue

Disclaimer: I do not own Oregairu, Infinite Stratos, or any other intellectual properties that may appear in this story. Please don't sue me.

Chapter 8: Hence, He Suffers the Consequences of Others' Actions

"Such misfortune." Note to self, avoid a toweled Shinonono at all costs. Why am I calling her by her real name now? Simple reason... I was forced to. For those 40 grueling minutes yesterday, she temporarily beat all arrogance out of me and fully asserted her dominance over the poor loner I am. Strangely, I saw a mysterious shadow tuck me into my bed after the beating and before I blacked out last night. My memories are a bit hazy from then, but I don't believe Ichika helped me, leaving their identity unknown.

In any case, Shinonono's... I know I shouldn't do this, but I can't keep saying her family name, too many syllables... I need something else, preferably less offensive than Pouki. Wait, she always resorts to her freakish strength when provoked... I have it, from now on, one Shinonono Houki shall be referred to as the brutish gorilla. This is obviously not rude in any way, just a playful pet name, teehee~. The gorilla's efforts had the unintentional side effect of activating "Auto-pilot," leaving me unable to consciously function until Orimura-sensei's announcement and judging from the stupid grin on Ichika's face, I knew he dragged me into another mess with him. It's only the first week, and I'm regretting enrolling in IS Academy. Why am I even here again?

"Since you've decided to now rejoin us Hikigaya, here's your personal IS the "Undefeated Champion": I don't know how you got her to make this, though." Orimura-sensei tossed me an item that seemed to be a black plastic case. Inside were two items, a pair of neon yellow sunglasses with black lightning bolts lining the frame and a letter... Sometimes I ask myself, "Why can't life make sense?" The world's most sought-after weapon lies in my hands, and the first thought I have of it is why it's a putrid shade of yellow. I've seen many examples of other standby IS designs: stylish wristwatches, gemstone bracelets, and necklaces, which all looked professional and expensive. My offering, on the other hand, resembles knockoff licensed merchandise. I'm afraid that if I'm not careful outside, I'll be arrested for counterfeiting.

Well, that's only half of the package; I should check the other. "To Machi-machi, it's the best gift you could ask for. It makes you look less like a creepy stalker and may turn around your horrible luck. From your favorite Onee-chan, Tabby-chan~." Bleh, it's so sweet that I might vomit, but sadly, knowing her, I'm not even surprised she wrote this.

Infinite Loner

While enjoying one of my mid-day walks before my eventual departure for IS Academy, I noticed something strange planted in the ground next to a park bench... A pair of rabbit ears. Most individuals would continue walking or contact the police, but Hikigaya Hachiman chose none of the above. It's been a nice day, with no one talking to me in class, so I felt a little daring. I nervously walked over to the anomaly and pulled the ears out of the ground, and to my surprise, a mutant bunny didn't come out but some random burgundy-haired woman.

A creepy one, in fact, for the first thing she said to me was," I've been watching you for a long time Machi-machi." First, "Machi-machi"? Who is that? Do you mean Hikigaya Hachiman, or are you confusing me with my sister? I've never heard such a weird corruption of my name before, but it's not the worst. Nothing can beat that nickname... Too many bad memories come to mind. Second, how does this grown woman know who I am? Is she a stalker? I'm no delusional Harem protagonist; I will call the police if she does not explain. My parents didn't raise me to a higher standard for nothing.

Being a cautious individual, I coldly replied," Maybe I should put you back in the ground then... I don't have time for stalkers." I turned to walk away and purge this encounter out of my memory. I have enough nightmare fuel and don't need ground people making it any worse.

Regrettably, life had other plans, and I couldn't move. "So you're just like I thought, reclusive to a fault. But we can't have you leaving so soon, Machi-machi." The stalker dropped her bubbly facade and assumed a cold expression. Hold on, her piercing gaze looks familiar... almost like I know her from somewhere?

"Can you please let me go? I have high school exams to study for." I tried using the classic excuse to leave and lick my wounds... Note to self, never touch weird carrots planted in the ground.

"Heh?! How can you be so mean to Houki-chan's sister and the genius inventor of the Infinite Stratos, Machi-machi." Once I spoke, her frigid visage melted, and the expressive persona returned... Wait, Shinonono-san's sister, inventor of IS, incredibly eccentric personality... That description only matches one person.

*groan* Why do I have to deal with "her" right now? I just wanted to enjoy a quiet walk, maybe have a monologue or two, but not this. I know, I know, I should be honored to have the opportunity to speak with the innovator. Blah, blah, blah, the White Knight incident shook the world to its core with one machine taking on hundreds of missiles and winning. IS's revolutionized the lives of millions, ended world hunger, made MAX coffee rain from the sky, etc. I don't care about any of that, but...

"To what do I owe the pleasure, Shinonono Tabane-san?" I cordially answered, out of respect since she's making it possible for me to even escape Chiba's school district and have a chance to revamp my image. In the end, nothing motivates Hikigaya Hachiman more than spite against adolescence.

"Tabby-chan or Onee-chan is just fine. Anyway, you seem to be close to Houki-chan, and any friend of hers is a friend of mine, so I would like to help you out. It's also interesting how you're the first male IS pilot, and not him." I don't know what's worse, calling the inventor of IS "Onee-chan" or being referred to as Pouki's friend... The thought sends shivers down my spine. Wait, what do you mean that my awakening of an IS surprised you? Am I actually impressive, someone worthy of praise? Flattery won't work on me, you know~? However, who else could be destined to do the same... I only have one name in mind, but there's no way it could happen. They're too stupid.

"So what are you offering me, Onee... Tabby-chan." I couldn't squander what remained of my pride to use the first title. It's just too disturbing for someone my age to say "Onee-chan" without dying of shame, so I gave up mid-sentence. Besides, I don't want to confuse Tabane with her younger sister, so I'll make an exception to my name rule (see Hikigaya archives for further details) just this once. You should be honored that I'm making such an effort, you know~?

"I'm bored, and you're interesting, Machi-machi, a loner who holds a strong contempt for society. You also remind me of someone I know... a person I regret leaving alone... So how about you help me, help you, help me. I get to kill some time and have the little brother I always wanted while you get something to fix your dead fish eyes. Doesn't that sound like a nice deal, Machi-machi. You should be grateful that everyone's favorite super idol, Tabby-chan, wants to help."

"Yeah, I'm not interested in a pair of contacts or something. My eyes are fine, by the way. It's not my fault I that they're like this, you know~?" I again tried walking away once she began rambling, but...

"Where do you think you're going, Machi-machi? Do you not know who I am?" The restraints on my feet tightened, and Tabane returned to her snow-maiden state, her voice hollow and eyes blank.

Uh, just what is my luck with Shinonono women? It's like the Rom-com gods are trying to mess with me. "Fine, I'll take the incredible opportunity offered to me by the great and talented, Tabby-chan." I rolled my eyes and miserably sighed.

"I feel like you and me will get along just fine, Machi-machi... just fine."

Infinite Loner

The name "Undefeated Champion" does suit me perfectly, as no matter the odds, I've never cracked under pressure (except when you got beat up by bullies and Houki, most times you talked to Orimoto, etc.)... Yep, undefeated. The lonely warrior who's crawling through hell to reach the paradise of success.

"Who's so cool and got a plan; well, of course, it's Hachiman~!" I hate it here, just being in the vicinity of so many riajuus loosens the grip I have on memories from the Dark Period. I don't know when I'll say something stupid and humiliate myself at this rate.

Sadly for "Team Orimura" (how original), the IS gym was booked out for the entire week, with the older students practicing for a tournament, so there was no hands-on practice until game time. For the time being, I completely locked into the day's studies and tuned out Ichika's "background noise" until lunch.

"So, Hachiman, how do we beat the ojou-san?" The Idiot asked in our first strategic meeting.

"The plan is simple, studying, studying, and... more studying. No free IS gym timeslots equal no practical application, which forces us to completely memorize "IS battle theory." After that, we formulate cunning strategies and somehow luck our way to victory. The ojou may have a head start skill-wise, but two minds are greater than one." I elaborated my master plan for victory. Maximizing all of our waking hours into this effort would mean axing distractions like the gorilla, but desperate times call for desperate measures (lol).

It was a real shame that she sat with us as she threw a monkey wrench into my ambitions," I know what you're thinking, Hachiman, and it's not happening. *Rejected* You probably want to throw me to the wayside again and drown yourself and Ichika in books. I'll train you both." I should have seen this coming a mile away, knowing her... personality.

Hold on. Why am I even taking this seriously? If anything, I hold an active interest in losing and not becoming the class's corporate slave. Even if Ichika wins, Orimura-sensei would most likely thrust the position on my shoulders, claiming "teamwork" or "preserving the class's integrity." Have I learned nothing from the life of my overworked parents? Father's number one piece of advice was the infamous "To Work is to Lose," after all...

On second thought, Orimura-sensei would kill Ichika and later me as his "best friend" for even attempting to throw this match. She just has a sixth sense for my laziness and previously forced me to be productive for an entire summer. The last thing I need is a repeat of that time... who knows, her regiment might be even worse. *sigh* How frustrating, a catch-22. Oh, right, there's a conversation still going on.

"Hachiman, Houki has a great point being the younger sister of Tabane-san: she probably knows a ton about IS stuff." What were we talking about again... IS training. Come on, Ichika, think about the consequences of your words. You're only seconding her point. Our classmate is not as noble as you believe, as she's most likely trying to monopolize the rights to the world's two male IS pilots. Will anyone save me from this bleak fate?

"Maybe I could be of assistance." A potential savior approached, a senior, as she stopped at our table. Thank you, Rom-com gods, for listening to me. I'll never curse your name ag-

"These two are mine." But of course, that would mean helping me out, and that's the last thing they want. The gorilla quickly sent my potential heroine packing as she glared and hissed like a snake to that poor girl. I'm so sorry, Stranger-san, for the rude behavior of my classmate, but she's always like this.

*sigh* "Ok, Houki-sensei, please take care of us." I'm guessing that there's a 100% chance the gorilla's "training" is nothing IS related, having a first-hand account of her methods. Ahh, Sleep-chan, Hachiman has to take some days off to will "Team Orimura" to victory. Please forgive me.

"Houki-sensei, I like it... Heh, heh, heh..." Not even 20 seconds into our tutorship and Sensei has already gone mad with power. What a shocker.

Infinite Loner

Just as I expected, Houki-sensei's regiment was kendo, kendo, and... more kendo. At least I saw this coming, having "trained" with her before, but poor Ichika was none the wiser.

"What's the matter, Ichika? I thought you were better than this?" She viciously grinned after crushing him.

"I thought we were practicing for the match? What does that have to do with kendo?" The poor fool gave up fighting back and just started running away from our classmate. It kind of reminded me of before ("Move you, slowpoke, before I end you!") and the nightmares that followed. Do they sell sleeping pills here?

"The problem is more than IS. Your form is poor and needs work. What happened to you over the past few years for you to regress so much?"

"Well, I was a member of the "go-home club" in middle school for three years in a row. I never missed a day, and Hachiman could attest to that." Great, the Idiot threw me under the bus again. Now the gorilla has something against me... My high school life is so wrong.

"Oh really, so he led to your regression... Good to know." She swiftly weaved through Ichika's strikes before dealing the final blow.

"Gwah!" And he's down for the count! Wait, doesn't that mean it's my turn. Oh no.

"And look at that, we're the only two left, Hachiman. Doesn't it remind you of the good old days?" The gorilla smiled, but it lacked the warmth of Komachi's or the superficial sheen of Orimoto's. Her's was cold and daring me to make the first move.

"Well, here goes nothing. Hyah!" I charged in and attempted a frontal strike. When fighting the gorilla, I needed to act quickly, or else I would be overpowered. I lacked her strength and could only compensate with speed.

"Clack!" Our blades collided, and we met, eye to eye. She must have underestimated me as her earlier distant expression gave way to signs of life, and she locked into focus. Great, there goes any chance I had at winning. At this point, my best outcome would be an honorable defeat...

"Uwah." I heaved once she struck me for the fifth time. We fought for a while, and I put up a valiant effort, but I ran out of steam to counter her blows. I swayed back and forth, trying to steady myself, but the writing was on the wall.

"Not bad, Hachiman, but I'm better!" The gorilla roared and drove in to finish me off. Come on, legs, move! I screamed at my body to dive out of the way, but I found no response. "Whack!" Her hit connected, and I doubled onto the floor.

Once I collapsed, she finally released us from her "loving care," and the two male pilots made a rapid bee-line for our room, 1025.

"Ha...Hachiman, I don't think Houki is going to teach us anything about IS." Wow, the Idiot has more than two brain cells. What a "profound discovery" he just made, the gorilla being a Kendo fanatic. He still did make a valid point as we were panting from exhaustion in our safe haven of 1025.

"Yeah, I saw this coming too... It looks like we have a few all-nighters in our future to stand a chance against the ojou-san. I hope you like studying." I tiredly explained, pausing to catch my breath.

"Hooray!" Ichika sarcastically celebrated.

That's when our new phase of "extreme studying" began.

Chapter 9: The Class Rep Cup

Today was the big match, and to call "Team Orimura" ready, would be a massive stretch. Our schedule recently followed: wake up, study IS battle theory over breakfast, class, discussing possible weaknesses of the ojou-san's IS at lunch, more lectures, the gorilla's "unorthodox training regiment," dinner mixed with Ichika's general education refresher course, and one more long stretch of IS Theory before an hour or two of sleep, rinse and repeat.

Many may say, "Wow, with that much effort, a win must be guaranteed." But sadly, that is far from the truth. Walking into the IS loading room, the two of us never had a single minute of flight time to our names besides the entrance exam. All our preparation could be useless against the ojou-san's experience with her machine, Blue Tears. I guess "to work is to lose" is a universal truth.

"Wait," someone might say, don't only one of you have a personal IS, making the fight unfair. Oh, don't worry about the Idiot fighting in a training unit as the Japanese government designed his own Personal IS ahead of time and shipped it to the Academy today for "research purposes." Why didn't the Japanese government send me anything? That hurts my feelings, you know~?

"Ichika, are you ready to dominate?" I asked my "teammate" as he finished formatting his IS, the Byakushiki, in its standby mode.

"You know it... Come, Byakushiki!" With those words, his IS appeared, and my initial thoughts. It looks pretty ordinary with the default blue and beige color scheme. I wonder how it will look after the First Shift?

Walking over to Ichika, I gave him one last pep talk, "So do you remember the strategy?"

"Yeah, and I'll follow it completely." Let's just hope I don't have to eat those words.

With my speech over, the gorilla decided to add her little piece," Just win Ichika."

"Ok... I'm off. *Engine revving*" And there he goes. Knowing him, I may want to prepare a few contingency plans for his defeat. The last thing I needed while doing such a task was the gorilla's frenzied commentary of Ichika's fight, so I sought some distance from her. I walked over to a far corner of the room, wore on my "attention-grabbing" (read: visually unsettling) "UC" sunglasses, and started planning some of my potential moves. I'm not the sharpest pilot in the shed, so I have to end my fight quickly, as according to the entrance exam instructors I had, a D- compatibility with IS, the lowest of any recorded pilot. So the longer the fight lasts, the more likely the ojou-san exploits my inexperience. It was a miracle that I even moved during the entrance exam. Her autonomous "bits" will give me some trouble since it opens up multi-directional attacks... Maybe a surprise attack would work, but how could I conceal myself? Her powerful main cannon can make swiss cheese out of my armor. I need to end the fight in one blow since one cheap shot is all I can manage with my limited experience, but instant-kill IS's don't exist. Unless... *sigh* I wish I knew more about my IS...

Infinite Loner

Where am I? This isn't the IS Academy loading zone, but it feels familiar. All I can see is a lone swing set surrounded by an endless expanse of lavender sky, and... Is that a little girl? I'm turning around immediately; I don't want to be labeled as a lolicon. My reputation as a "fish-eyed loner" is bad enough. I don't need "degenerate" on top of that.

"Where are you going? I don't bite." Again another girl has somehow teleported behind me and blocked my escape. Is this a trend?

"Who are you?" I turned around to ask the mysterious child. Hey, she looks and sounds familiar? Did she work at a movie theater? Her pale skin, long black hair, big gray eyes, and that trademark ahoge sticking like an antenna just scream, Hikigaya. She almost appeared to be the perfect fusion between myself and Komachi. Mom, Dad, were you hiding something from Komachi? Ah, who am I kidding; they wouldn't tell me something so important. Well, mysterious girl, if you really are my lost sister, that white sundress is going to cost you a few Hachiman points; it's early spring and way too cold for that.

"You thought something rude about me, didn't you "partner"?" She replied with an adorable pout. Weird, aren't you supposed "onii-chan" or "nii-sama" not partner? Has the little sister community evolved without me? I've been a loyal member for over a decade, and this is how I'm treated? I donated to last year's SISCON, you know~? How rude. In any case, her cuteness was off the charts, almost to the point of rivaling my other sister. I never thought that those words would come out of my mouth... I'm sorry for sinning Komachi.

"You're such a scatterbrain, the little girl whose name I don't know. I'm, onii-chan not "partner." You mixed up your lines." I cleared her misunderstanding of the situation by pointing out our relationship. I'm such a thoughtful onii-chan... in fact, the world's best onii-chan. I deserve a medal.

"What?"

"What?" It appeared that we had a bit of miscommunication. The little girl who lives in this barren wasteland isn't my sister, so... Hold on, puts on IS sunglasses, suddenly in a strange place, a little girl calls me her "partner"... *groans* I hate you Tabane.

"I think everything is coming together if you're making such a dissatisfied face. Tabby-chan did say you were quick on the uptake." She even preinstalled that horrible nickname. What have I gotten myself into?

"So, how much do you know about me?" Let's see how much of a stalker, Onee-chan is. I swear these Shinonono women have something against me. First yesterday, and now this.

"Well, Hachiman, you're a pathetic loner with an unhealthy attachment to Georgia Max coffee and your little sister, Komachi. I don't think I need to bring up your illustrious middle school career. We all know how that played out." Woah, already jumping to the first name basis, are we IS-san? Ok, maybe the child-like aesthetic gives you a pass, unlike that "brutish gorilla" in my class. Or the other one... Let's not bring up those memories, Hachiman. You're still recovering from the abuse.

"Spare me the nightmares and tell me why I'm here," I defensively questioned. You may look docile, but I remember what happened a few months ago. I didn't appreciate the "surprise intervention" event. I couldn't sleep for a few days after the fact. I feared I would wake up in that theater, strapped into my seat.

"I just wanted to introduce myself, and seeing that you were not busy doing anything, I dragged you into the IS Realm. I also noticed the little predicament you're stuck in, so I've decided to offer you the First Shift." Ahh, the little girl thinks she can help me, how adorable, maybe I should give her a head pat... Wait, that's how they lure you in. Resist Hachiman! The temptations of the lolicon are strong, but you're stronger.

*growls* "Don't you dare treat me like a child Hachiman. I'm a big girl, after all!" So cute. I wish I could take a picture of her and place it on my wall... Wait, I'm not a lolicon, I swear, don't send me to prison. She's my IS, so it's ok.

Time to focus, "And the catch?" As a rule, all tempting offers require a caveat, and this one seemed no different.

"Give me a name." Is she joking here? I know she looks like a child, but this is ridiculous. Tabane, what are you programming into your creations?

"Really?"

*nods head* This should be easy, like taking candy from a baby. Or, in this case, a powerful skill from a sentient AI.

"Ok, how about Champ-san?" I pulled off such a "High IQ" play right there. My decision was just to shorten the name of the IS. Hikki's about to have some new abilities.

*Rejected* "No! Try harder this time." How could she see through me? Again, my IS demonstrates esper-like abilities. Note to self, I need to look into this lead.

"Fine... Sachi. Like that one better?" This time I tried combining my first name, Hachiman, with the word "second" (my IS looks like a female clone of myself) to make Sachi.

"Sachi... Sachi. I like it!" It appears that my efforts were successful this time as Sachi was ecstatic and started running around the IS Realm while screaming her name aloud. Yep, my IS is an actual Loli. I just hope the gorilla doesn't find out about this. I'm still sore from her last outburst.

"Hey Sachi, I have a bit of a time crunch here, so can I go back now?" It seems that my interruption worked as Sachi regained her composure and walked back to my location.

"Pleasure to be working with you, Hachiman." She states while extending her hand out to me.

*shakes hand* "Same here, Sachi." Why are we shaking hands? What are we, Americans...

Infinite Loner

Taking off my beloved "Sachi Shades." Why did I rename them? Simple, Sachi is a blessing sent from the heavens. She's the only one who genuinely appreciates my presence and looked forward to meeting me at this cursed Academy. Komachi, you may be right, as your big brother isn't too popular with his peers. Everyone here sees me as a tool. Wow, my social standing is so low that only my preprogrammed AI PARTNER brings a smile to my face.

Long-winded monologue aside, I confirmed my return to the real world with a quick glance... Everything seemed fine besides the pouting gorilla leaning incredibly far into my personal space, "Hachiman, are you even listening to me?". Woah, hold on, Too close! Please back away, gorilla-san. I can't take this much physical contact. I'm a loner; for crying out loud!

"Y...Yes, I am. Why would I ever ignore your presence? I was just thinking about my strategy." My nervous reply worked as she backed away, giving me some much-needed breathing room. Phew. That was close, gorilla-san, one surprise earthquake, and I would have stolen your precious first kiss~. Bleh, me and her... Disgusting, what am I a masochist?

"Did I hear something, Hachiman?" The gorilla asked with a dark look on her face.

"W-what are you talking about? My lips are sealed."

"... It must have been my imagination then," her menacing aura retreated before she continued. "In any case, while you were daydreaming, Ichika barely lost his fight to Alcott-san, and now you're next in two minutes."

"Can I ask you a question, gorilla-san?"

"Interesting nickname, but ask away Hachiman. I might have the answer you're looking for."

"How exactly did Ichika lose?"

"He burnt up his shield energy before Alcott could."

"I see..." Shield energy was like HP, something you try to conserve at all costs. I can't see any logical explanations for Ichika willingly hemorrhaging his strength, aside from the Byakushiki being defective with its power consumption. Maybe, he tried using a flashy move without thinking about the consequences... *sigh* If I'm not careful, my match will just be a repeat of his. We're both equally inexperienced pilots.

"Do you need any more information?" My classmate asked.

"I doubt it," I replied and started towards the IS hanger, where I could meet my teammate.

"Heh, you're probably disappointed in my fight, Hachiman?" Ichika bitterly laughed once he noticed me... So he wasn't expecting a loss either, huh?

"If it makes you feel any better, I kept this outcome in mind."

"Always thinking, you haven't changed that much, Hachiman." He remarked with a small smile. Hold on, what does he imply by that? It's not even a comparison between who I am now to in middle school. We're two different people at that point.

"So, Ichika, do you have anything you want to tell me?"

"I'm not so sure about Blue Tears itself, but Cecilia's attitude seems to be her Achilles heel. It's not my style to play psychological games with my opponents, but knowing you..."

"I like the sound of that," I replied with a refreshing smile (read: evil grin)... What, desperate times call for desperate measures. If anything, I'm doing the ojou-san a favor by humbling her today; her overinflated ego might cause issues if not addressed. My actions are proactive in a sense. It doesn't hurt that she threatened my goal of quiet high school life.

"Can we still win this, Hachiman?"

"...50%."

"Come on, you two, the match is about to start at any minute!" I heard the gorilla call at us.

"Well, I'll leave it to you then, partner," Ichika commented as he walked away.

"I wouldn't expect the best from me, though... and we are not friends, let alone partners," I responded.

Now alone, I thought about my personal activation chant. I know it sounds vapid to care when it's unimportant, but I once had delusions. Days where I dreamt of being a hero of justice, saving the world, and making others smile. Sure, I've changed a bit from then, but I feel obligated to grant one of that lonely boy's wishes. Without him, I wouldn't be the person I am today... Maybe it could be "Time for Battle" (too riajuu) or "Action" (too corporate)... oh, I have the perfect one, although it's a bit long.

"Solitude is my strength, and logic is my sword!" My machine immediately responded to the call with a bright light. Its intensity momentarily blinded me. Once the light dispersed, the Undefeated Champion appeared in the First Shift, slowly adjusting to my body. Thank you, Sachi-chan, for not deceiving me. My opinion of you rose by 3 Hachiman points. Maybe I'll buy you some candy as a reward... scratch that she lives in the IS... virtual candy.

Well, at the very least, Tabane built this machine soundly as I felt no extra weight on my body while tentatively flexing my arms. I guess this is the power of technology in action.

"I look like a clown," studying my reflection, I couldn't help but groan at the IS's flamboyant styling: massive black lightning bolts lined my legs, bright golden paint paired with a tail resembling a famous electric mouse, two long antennae above my head, and a sleek build all met my gaze. Not even in a giant robot mech do I look menacing; what a shame. I guess Tabane attempted to divert attention off my eyes and onto my form with this striking design. Which only makes me look even more ridiculous. I don't have high hopes for my weapons loadout and First Shift abilities. Turning around to the screen behind me, I studied the Undefeated Champion's specifications...

*sigh* Why am I not even surprised at this point.

My IS is virtually useless as a brawler or in a solo fight (which I am currently in), and it may have incredible skills (on paper), but using both makes me an instant liability. Unless...

Infinite Loner

"..."

"Is there something on my face, or is the lack of dead fish eyes bothering you that much, ojou-san." I mocked my upcoming opponent while she quickly scanned my entire form. I had to keep playing up my obnoxious persona after all.

"Your form is insufferable, Hikigaya Hachiman. I was about to compliment you, miscreant, on not charging into battle in an unformatted IS, like your teammate, but your machine's complete lack of subtlety killed the thought." The ojou callously responded with a huff, just like all of our previous encounters. Yeah, go ahead and make your jokes; black hair and bright machine don't match. Tell me something I don't already know. Your disdain only helps me in the long run.

"Miscreant and insufferable, you say. I guess that means that my unique personality and machine surpass the bounds of conversational language... Or don't tell me, someone broke out the thesaurus to fabricate a sense of sophistication." Insult her intelligence... check, rub salt all over her superiority complex... check. Everything is going according to plan.

"...If Orimura-san, the younger brother of a prodigy, could not beat me, what chance do you, the fish-eyed commoner have? Or should I be looking forward to you groveling and begging for forgiveness like the filthy rodent you are?" Her venomous tone clearly held nothing but contempt and disdain for me and my sudden appearance at IS Academy. Oh wow, there it is, the mouse connection. I guess someone isn't completely shut off from commoner society, after all.

"Oh, don't worry, ojou-san, I'll finish this in a jiffy. After all, you need to make it to "Afternoon Tea" at the country club." I confidently replied with a smug smirk. Hold on, why does she call Ichika by his name, but I'm just a "fish-eyed commoner" and "filthy rodent"? Is it the eyes, which she cannot currently see, the Undefeated Champion's paint job, which is understandable, or was it bribery by Orimura-sensei? If the third, how much? I'm not complaining, but... double standards are still double standards.

*growls* "Y...You. I guess it's time for me to wipe that foolish grin off your face." Heh, I just love getting under other people's skin. Was that alter-ego talking or the real me? Who knows?

IS Academy Class Rep Cup

[Hikigaya Hachiman (15) Undefeated Champion-Shield 100/100%]

Versus

[Cecilia Alcott (15) Blue Tears- Shield 90/90%]

*Match Start*

With that announcement, I stood still for a moment and dared the ojou-san to shoot. "What are you too afraid to scratch a "filthy commoner?" Or was that bravado all just for show?" A few teasing gestures later and Blue Tears fired a beam... and the blast connected.

[Undefeated Champion"- Shield 91/100%]

"Oh no, you have wounded me greatly with that hit. How can I possibly compare to the great Cecilia-sama? My weak IS pales in comparison to the technological powerhouse that is the Blue Tears. Japanese men are truly nothing more than savages in need of education from the great maiden." My overdramatic play worked as the ojou-san temporarily stopped paying attention to me and focused on admiring her "magnificent" efforts. Ok, time to activate the Combo Move: Stealth Gambit!

"It seems that even slight effort on my part was too much for you, simple commoner. Maybe I won't beat you to the ground if you profusely apologize. Perhaps..."

"Boom!" I rapidly accelerated towards my target and fired a massive silver beam at point-blank range without her detection.

[Direct Hit Scored, Blue Tears Shield Energy Dropping!] A flashing notice appeared in the corner of my vision, exclaiming that my attack had connected.

"It seems your British ego got the better of you, ojou-san. I guess someone forgot the first rule of combat: the mind is just as vulnerable as the body to damage. Maybe you should stop underestimating "foolish Japanese men"? We did just completely wreck you in one shot, mind you." Noticing my abysmally low shield energy and the ojou's massively shocked face, it seemed that my last-minute plan worked. Why fight a long, drawn-out battle when a preemptive strike is on the table? Who cares that it only has a 1% chance of succeeding, and if it fails, I become the biggest joke in IS Academy history, throwing all his shield energy into one missed shot. Topping the charts on the Hikitani scale of poor introductions, ahead of the time in middle school when I tried making a joke which made almost no one laugh and then slipped on a banana peel that did the opposite. It was one of the few times in my life when I felt utterly humiliated. But unlike then, all I had to do was hope that RNG was on my side, and apparently, today was my lucky day.

[Hikigaya Hachiman (Shield: 1/100%)- Winner!] A bright holographic sign read out the match's result. Weird, I feel something churning in my gut... is this pride?

"They pulled out all the stops here, huh?" I commented on the extravagant display for my efforts. Hopefully, not too many people were watching... Taking a look at the packed stands quashed my hopes. Just what was so interesting about the Class Rep Cup to warrant such a large crowd? I could only wonder about such a reason.

"Woah, Hachiman, how did you pull off that slick move? You were like a ninja when you teleported behind the ojou-san. So cool!" Ichika exclaimed to me as I landed the Undefeated Champion outside the IS Hanger.

"Uh, it wasn't anything too impressive. I just caught the ojou-san flat-footed, is all," uncomfortable with such enthusiasm, I tried downplaying the fight.

"There's no need for modesty, Hachiman. It's clear that you outplayed Alcott-san. Do you not see her shocked expression?" The gorilla joined in on the conversation... I know my quick thinking appears exceptional, but it's nothing special. Anyone could have come up with the same strategy if put in a similar position. Remember Hachiman, overconfidence is man's chiefest enemy. You're nothing special, nothing special...

"How could this happen? They were supposed to be ants before me?"I glanced over to my former competitor to see her face darkened as if she was deep in thought. Did my victory humble the ojou-san? Maybe, but not the point of her soul-searching. She likely feels upset about how close Ichika was to defeat her, not expecting Brunhilde's younger brother to be a formidable foe...

"Are you okay?" I asked, slightly concerned about the ojou-san's behavior; don't misunderstand, as it's all for research, research, and nothing more.

"H-Hikigaya-kun?" She stammers at my words. I don't like that shocked look on her face. Before I could comment further, the ojou-san cleared her throat and continued, "Your victory was but a fluke, Hikigaya Hachiman and Orimura Ichika. In the end, I shall overcome you two and claim the mantle of 1-1 Strongest!" She declared before marching off... Well, that was weird.

"Did you understand anything she said, Hachiman?" Ichika turned with a puzzled expression.

"No."

"So you two, what influenced your ingenious plan?" The gorilla called our attention with her question.

"Huh?... Ouch," My roommate had no words for an explanation and stayed confused until he winced in pain, nursing his head from a strike...

"Hah, you got... Ouch!" I tried laughing at him, but my skull was not left unscathed. "Hey, what was that for," I complained to the source of my injury...

"And here I thought the two of you had some potential... *sigh* What a disappointment." It was nee-san, of course, as she miserably sighed.

"What does that mean, Chifuyu-nee?"

"It's "Orimura-sensei," brat!" Nee-san... I mean, Orimura-sensei glowered. What's the point of haunted houses when Sensei's killer glare exists?

"Now, now, Orimura-sensei, don't be too harsh on our male pilots." Yamada-sensei stepped in to calm her superior down. Thank you so much, Sensei! You saved us from nee-san's wrath.

"All right, I'll let them off today..." Nee-san reigned in her bubbling anger before continuing, "If you two didn't plan ahead, your improvisation skills are impressive. First, Orimura, you put up a fierce resistance against Alcott, and if it wasn't for your recklessness, the match could have been yours." She explained, giving a rough breakdown of her opinion of Ichika's performance.

"I'm thankful for your praise, Orimura-sensei!" He responded full of zeal... probably afraid of another punch.

"And now you're too formal, swinging to the other extreme like a pendulum," Nee-san grumbled... "However, Orimura's efforts paled in comparison to our resident loner, Hikigaya."

"Whatever do you mean, Orimura-sensei?" I ambiguously asked.

"Deliberately sacrificing shield energy for power. You took advantage of your IS's skills, just like I did in my first victory in the Mondo Grosso."

"It was a trick of the light, Sensei. There's no way my brand-new IS could use a One-off ability. I'm not that talented. Hah, hah, hah." Fearing the consequences of my classmates learning more about me, I deflected the praise. Quiet school life, quiet school life...

"Now that you mention it, I also found it strange how quickly Hachiman won his fight." The gorilla noted as she narrowed her gaze at me. I don't like where this conversation is going.

"Uh, look at the time. I'm going back to my room now. *yawn* I haven't slept well for the past few days, and with classes over, I can catch up on some lost hours. Ichika, go buy me a MAX, will ya? Your treat." I seized the lifeline to release myself from this compromised position... What a chaotic week I've been through: from the first day at IS Academy and seeing all the familiar faces to dealing with this annoying tournament, on top of supervising Ichika's studies. Not to mention being pulled into ANOTHER DIMENSION by my child-like IS, the Undefeated Champion, or Sachi colloquially. I deserve a long rest after all that stress.

"That's cold, Hachiman making me pay for the drink. I thought we were friends." He mumbles while walking toward the vending machine.

Oh, you're upset, but if I'm not mistaken; our relationship was more like "associates with benefits" than actual friends...

Wait, since I won the match, doesn't that make me the class rep?

*mentally blanches*

Infinite Loner

Interlude: Cecilia Alcott Reaches an Unexpected Conclusion

While taking a shower after that exhausting Class Rep Cup, I could not help but think of the two IS pilots that stood in my way. Orimura Ichika and Hikigaya Hachiman, or The Golden Knight and the Monster of Logic to many Academy students.

Why do I feel so conflicted after beating first and losing to the second? Ichika's near victory could easily be attributed to his latent talent as Brunhilde's younger brother, but the other... Hikigaya Hachiman, I don't know what to make of him.

My first impressions likened him to a lazy slacker with an arrogant mouth, as he avoided making eye contact like a coward when I tried talking to him the first day. Every other encounter we had only failed, as he somehow provoked me into irritability, all before carefully slinking away. However, his skills today muddied the waters for my earlier assessment.

He wasn't as overly naive or easy to incense as Ichika was. During our match today, Hikigaya moved with purpose, fluidly, and efficiently. Every word he spoke held some sort of calculated meaning as I fell for his grand master plan. I wasn't necessarily defeated by superior skill but by my own hubris... the first lesson every student learns from the Academy textbook. Hikigaya trounced me, a National Representative Candidate, easily with nothing more than a few simple taunts and that gaudy "Stealth Gambit" or whatever it's called.

After doing some basic research into his scores, I discovered that he leapfrogged over me on many assessments. Here I was arrogantly flaunting myself as the super-elite in defeating the instructor during the entrance exam when he quietly did the same. I saw him as nothing more than an unwanted insect defiling the garden that was the Academy. Where did that opinion lead me... defeat. Who is the resident introvert of IS Class 1-1, and what makes him tick? These questions are currently wracking my brain.

All this introspection recalls a forgotten memory from my past. I never really had the strongest bonds with my father, as his hedonistic personality and poor relationship with my mother always ground my gears. However, I took to heart one of his rare lines of wisdom," Cecilia, I may have never been the best parent to you, and I won't blame you for hating me, but please listen to what I have to say. For all intents and purposes, I'm an impulsive playboy who aimlessly wandered through life, and I hope you avoid making the same mistakes I did. When you get older, find someone the exact opposite of me, cold, calculating, and mysterious, and I can guarantee you that every day will be exciting..." Maybe I've finally found a target in that Hachiman fellow and his piercing gaze, so I guess Japanese men are not so bad after all~.

Infinite Loner

"You're being transferred abroad, effective immediately." Those were the principal's last words to me. Not even two weeks into my high school career, everything changed. I didn't have time to make any friends as my classmates were apprehensive about my position. They felt unworthy of interacting with someone so seemingly vital to the government. Is this a sign that everyone hates me? Just like back then, I had to leave everyone behind...

"Rin-chan, did you hear the news?" Mom eagerly asked as I began packing in my room. She looked awfully eager to see her daughter leave. Maybe, she too sees me as nothing more than dead weight.

"Yeah, but I'm not so happy about it." I sighed while fishing through my wardrobe... Oh, this shirt looks cute.

"What's with the long face, Rin-chan? I thought you wanted to go back?" A puzzled look lined her face as she spoke.

"What do you mean, Mom? I was so close to making new friends at school." I replied with a blank look. I still didn't understand her excitement at leaving.

"Yeah, that's a fair argument, but you're missing the bigger picture. Think about where you're going?" She tried elaborating her point, but none of it made sense. Transfer students rarely make friends at their new school. There's only a brief moment when cliques form and relationships are established, and I would miss it.

"IS Academy, right?" I reluctantly answered.

"Exactly, and wouldn't you know, I have this interesting newspaper from Japan." Mom motioned to said newspaper lying on the desk behind her. What could be so groundbreaking in that thing? I got up and walked over to the document to see the headline, "Unbelievable, Younger Brother to Brunhilde Activates IS!" paired with a picture of the scene, a confused teenager next to a white IS... No.

"So are you implying that..." Her jubilant behavior finally made sense. What's better than making new friends... reuniting with old ones.

"Do you get it, Rin-chan? This your chance!" Mom's passionate declaration reverberated through the house.

"After all this time, I can finally reunite with Ichika. This is incredible, Mom, and thanks for telling me. Hah, hah, hah!" I felt ecstatic, and laughter overcame me as I spoke. No longer would I have to keep asking "what ifs" about middle school, and those days would find closure? For the first time in a while, I held optimism for the future and couldn't wait to leave.

"That's not all Rin-chan. From what I hear, there are two male pilots at IS Academy. I wonder who the other one could be?" She threw another variable my way; there were two male pilots, not just one. How does that have anything to do with middle school? The other pilot could be anyone.

"I don't get it, mom. What are you implying?" I was left dumbfounded by her words. Who else could have the skills and talent to activate an IS? Dan, or one of Ichika's other friends? If so, why would Mom care so much about them? Besides Ichika, I only ever brought over one other boy...

"Maybe, a stubborn loner rings a bell?" Stubborn loner, who even is... I never thought about him going to IS Academy, but it makes perfect sense. He trained with Chifuyu before and was smart enough to pass any entrance exam. If he's there... if he's there, I could answer him after all this time.

"Now, what should you be doing, young lady?" She lectured while wagging her finger.

"Finish packing immediately." With renewed vigor, I answered and sought to fill my suitcase quickly. Just wait, Hachi-kun. I lost you once before, but won't do so again.

Author's Note- Did this chapter speak to you or leave a lasting impact? Want to complain about the author's poor writing? Write a review to share any thoughts about Infinite Loner as it raises the quality of the story, and motivates me to pump out future installments. Besides that, we all know what the Follow and Favorite buttons do, so I won't elaborate any further. I appreciate all the support for this story and hope it can reach a wider audience over time. I've been Mayflower Productions, thank you for spending time reading Infinite Loner, and I'll catch you on the flipside.

Preview (I'm trying something new this time):

"Yahallo, it's everyone's favorite little sister, Hikigaya Komachi."

"And I'm the famed Tabby-chan."

In unison, "Welcome to the grand debut of the Hikigaya Hachiman Watch Party!"

"So Tabby-san, what do you think of my gomi-chan? Unimpressive, isn't he?"

"Actually I was a bit surprised to see him perform so well against Blue Tears, seeing that his IS compatibility was so low. Whoever built his machine deserves a bit of respect for that... I guess my great engineering can make anything possible."

"Hold on, Tabby-san, it looks like a transfer student is coming to IS Academy, and she knows gomi-chan almost as well as me... Oh, and she's strong, so that's two things he needs to watch out for."

"How interesting Machi-chan, I never thought your brother was able to make any friends. He always struck me as standoffish or more frankly, creepy."

"Funny story about that, onii-chan wasn't always so withdrawn, bitter, or for a better lack of words, disgusting. There were days when he was just an ordinary teenager, wanting nothing more than to make friends. He met this transfer student back then, and they grew close, so much so that she even visited our house. But after the incident, he's never been the same. Maybe her reappearance can spark a renaissance within onii-chan, and he'll finally get a girlfriend... Wow, I've been rambling for so long that I forgot about the topic at hand. I'm such an airhead, teehee~."

"Hmm, Machi-machi against this mysterious transfer student. I wonder who's stronger... of course, it's Machi-machi, I gifted him a brand-new IS, and there's no way one of my babies is losing to a hunk of junk. Although the stats point to the Undefeated Champion having a significant disadvantage..."

"Get a move on already, you two, before Hikigaya figures out about your secret meetings together!"

"Chi-chan! How did you get here?!"

"That's right, Chi-nee, you're supposed to be at the Academy."

"Do I have to repeat myself? Grr..."

"*gulp*"

"*gulp*"

While nervously looking away, they exclaim, "Next time on Infinite Loner, Chapter 10: Middle School Continues To Haunt Him."

"Don't worry, onii-chan, even if you get rejected, I'll be there for you... ooh, that has to be worth a lot of points!"

"Hold on, if Machi-machi gets heartbroken Houki-chan can comfort him, and if they get married he would legally be required to call me "Onee-chan"...Heh, heh, heh. Don't give up Machi-machi, show that transfer student who's boss!"

*sigh* "Why do you attract such weird crowds, Hikigaya?"

Chapter End