The Weight of Honor:
Welcome to Hyakkaou Academy:
C.R.E.A.M
Pt. 1
Shibuya City, Tokyo
As the early rays of dawn painted Shibuya City in hues of gold and amber, Huey Freeman emerged, a solitary figure against the sprawling urban canvas. The meticulous adjustment of his golden cufflinks, catching the light with an understated elegance, was his first act of silent acceptance of his new world. Today was the day! Today marked his arrival at Hyakkaou Private Academy!
More accurately, it was move-in day, a week before the semester officially started. He'd decided to wear his uniform so he could have the opportunity to break it in. Instead of the standard white button-up, expected of all incoming students, he opted for a dark green button-up instead. The customary black tie stayed to set the tone. It hung around his neck, its color accenting the unbuttoned crimson blazer that fluttered around him with every step. This blazer, rather than constricting movement, seemed to amplify it, allowing the fabric to billow majestically in the wind—a cape for a modern-day crusader. Green, Black, and Red melded together like a symphony of movement!
Huey's left hand was casually buried in the depths of his trouser pockets, not hidden away but rather poised, ready. His walk through Shibuya's streets wasn't hurried but measured, each step a deliberate assertion of his presence. The city around him buzzed with the morning rush, yet he moved through it all as if in a separate current, unaffected by the push and pull of the crowd.
Dragging his suitcase behind him, Huey navigated through the crowd, his eyes scanning the overwhelming array of advertisements that screamed from every corner: Buy this, eat that, gamble your life savings away on a Horse Race... It was all here.
He'd only been in Shibuya City for a month now and already it felt like a planet of its own. A bustling metropolis that thrived on chaos and order in equal measure. Huey, always the observer, couldn't help but watch as the masses swarmed the streets like clockwork, a sea of humanity flowing in all directions with their eyes glued to their phones and devices. As he took in the scene he couldn't help but be immensely disappointed, he'd thought Osaka was bad, it was a damn circus of hyperconsumerism here!
"What I'd give for this school to be in Okinawa" He mused, his voice laced with a not-so-subtle hint of cynicism. To put it poetically this place was like the heart of modern excess, where consumerism came to parade in its Sunday best. It bothered him. Huey couldn't help but feel like an alien—which he technically was —a young, retired Black American Revolutionary amidst a culture saturated with its own unique brand of extravagance and conformity.
He was somewhat ashamed to admit it, but he hadn't really taken time to shadow the school like he usually would have. He'd spent the bulk of his month trying to track down just who the hell put that bounty on his head, much to his partners' disappointment. In their minds, this "relocation" of his was just as much about his healing as it was about his bounty. He'd bet his Afro that Caesar had put Flowers up to this. He was always plotting, normally it had something to do with Caesar trying to drag him out of his self-imposed isolation— kicking and screaming if he had to.
It was annoying … but appreciated. Caesar had always been the one looking out for him, even before Freedomland. Besides, he knew where the line was. He hadn't brought up his former revolutionary vigor in years, not after a particularly nasty fight they'd gotten into … Caesar had come to realize that it was what it was. Huey didn't want to talk about it, and he never would want to talk about it … he was done. The Revolutionary in him was Dead …
He'd died with his brother and grandfather…
It just wasn't in him anymore — not really. It wasn't like his mentality had changed all that much, and his intellect was as solid as ever, the drive simply wasn't there anymore. His conviction had been shackled — stomped and mutilated. What was the point of fighting if no one else had the gumption to fight with you? What was the point in talking if no one ever listened?
What was the point in putting your own life on the line if the ones you loved had to pay the price?
Huey felt his hands tremble, breaking his external facade of collectiveness. That cacophonous —haunting symphony of gunfire rang in his head yet again. The scream of his grandfather, the betrayed cry of his brother Riley when he ran away … and the sight of the worms eating his corpse when he'd come back …
Huey almost didn't even register how hard his teeth were clenched behind his lips. His breathing had grown erratic, and his scowl had morphed into a flat-out grimace. He inwardly seethed … it seemed like no matter what he tried, no matter how long it had been, he could never find any peace in his thoughts, not for long anyway. He'd run, and run, and run some more, but he could never escape the grisly ghosts of his past. It followed him like a familiar spirit, attached to him by the hip. Tormenting him day and night …
Whispering in his ear
…
For him to put a Bullet in his Skull.
It was why he'd been spending more time in the field as Kyūseishu. Why he'd dove headfirst into the work at Martyr's Mantle. Escaping the bullshit his subconscious mind seemed so keen to shove down his throat had become a necessity, and despite his legendary poker face … Caesar had peeped it. He always did.
Having composed himself, he subtly shrugged. At least he could stack here. These were some of the richest kids in the nation, they had money to burn!
As the first light of dawn began to illuminate the skyline, Huey Freeman found himself standing at the threshold of Hyakkaou Private Academy. The early morning mist veiled the sprawling campus in a ghostly shroud, revealing the school in hushed whispers of light and shadow. The academy, renowned for its blend of opulence and tradition, stood majestically against the waking sky, its grandeur both inviting and foreboding.
The entrance was marked by a towering gate, an architectural marvel that fused modern elegance with classical Japanese design. It loomed over Huey, its silhouette etched sharply against the soft hues of dawn, as if guarding the secrets and sagas that unfolded within its walls. Beyond the gate, the path wound its way through meticulously landscaped gardens, where traditional stone lanterns, manicured trees, and modern sculptures existed in harmonious coexistence, guiding him toward the main building.
As Huey ventured further, the academy's façade gradually revealed itself—a striking edifice that bore the marks of wealth and power. The building's design paid homage to Japan's rich architectural heritage while embracing the sleek, imposing lines of Western aesthetics. Its windows, large and numerous, mirrored the sky's changing colors, hinting at the world of privilege and peril that lay beyond.
The silence of the morning was palpable, broken only by Huey's footsteps on the cobblestone. The campus, devoid of its usual flurry of students, seemed to watch him, its stillness a stark contrast to the whirlwind of competition and ambition that defined its daily rhythm. Huey found himself glaring at practically nothing— like more than usual; it was as if the very air carried a weight, a sense of dangerous expectation, as if the grounds were aware of some rare sense of tranquility before the inevitable storm of activity resumed.
Approaching the main entrance, Huey paused, taking in the sight before him. The grand doorway, framed by ornate carvings and modern art installations, served as a gateway between worlds—the ordinary and the extraordinary, the past and the future. It was here, at the confluence of tradition and innovation, that Huey stood, a solitary figure against the backdrop of Hyakkaou Private Academy's imposing beauty.
He stared at the ornate windows above the great staircase where he would begin this new chapter in his life, they were those of a cathedral. Stained glass yet the pattern was what caught his eye. A woman stood in the center, a twisting snake coiled around her body, helping her lift an apple to her lips …
Eve … and The Serpent.
Huey glared at it, far longer than he intended to. The Original Sin … Why the hell was The Demise of Mankind being Glorified? If he wanted to subject himself to a bunch of ass-backward religious art he'd have just gone to Europe.
Well … at least there weren't any flying naked babies or grown-ass men embracing each other with their dicks out …
Yet … he hadn't even seen most of the campus yet so who knew …
His humorous internal banter aside, the aura of the academy was indeed unsettling, a complex tapestry of history, luxury, and the unrelenting pursuit of power. Huey, with his keen sensitivity and introspective nature, could feel the undercurrents of tension that permeated the air, but it was more than that. There was a … malignancy to this place. An Evil … Wicked vibe that was unmistakable. Despite not being religious, he still considered himself to be spiritual— Righteous, he always had, it was a staple all his idols had… spirituality was very real, and while he couldn't describe the aura here … he could just feel it!
As the sun rose higher, casting its golden light upon the academy, the shadows retreated, unveiling the intricate details of the architecture and the verdant hues of the gardens. Huey took a deep breath, filing away his disturbing observations for the time being and steeling himself for the potential challenges ahead that awaited him within the hallowed halls of Hyakkaou Private Academy.
With a composed stride, Huey walked up the staircase, he pushed open the door, crossing the threshold of the Academy. His entrance was quiet but determined. The early morning light filtered through the large, ornate windows, casting the interior in a soft, golden glow that illuminated the opulence within. The grand foyer into which he stepped was a spectacle of luxury and power, designed to awe and intimidate in equal measure.
The floor was a polished checkerboard of black and white marble, reflecting the light in a dazzling display. The walls were adorned with rich, dark wood paneling and intricate gold leaf accents, showcasing the wealth and status of the academy's elite student body. Large, imposing portraits of notable alumni and founders hung with silent pride, their eyes following Huey as he moved through the space.
Directly ahead, a grand staircase spiraled upwards, its ornate balustrades a testament to the academy's commitment to luxury and fine craftsmanship. The staircase split at a landing, leading to the various halls and classrooms where the fate of many students was decided not by academic achievement, but by their prowess in the high-stakes world of gambling.
To his left, Huey noticed an expansive hall, its doors thrown open to reveal a gambling den that seemed ready to burst into life at any moment. Rows of gaming tables, each more lavish than the last, were set under crystal chandeliers that hung from the high ceiling like stars in a night sky. The velvet chairs were still empty, the cards and chips neatly arranged, awaiting the day's frenetic activity.
Despite the silence, the room hummed with an undercurrent of anticipation, as if the very air was charged with the electricity of impending battles. Huey could almost hear the echoes of past games, the rise and fall of fortunes with every turn of a card, every roll of the dice.
Turning away from the gambling den, he continued his exploration, passing by classrooms that defied the traditional concept of a learning environment. Each room was a blend of luxury and functionality, equipped with the latest technology but designed with an elegance that spoke of a world far removed from the utilitarian classrooms of ordinary schools. The seats were plush, the desks were mahogany, and the blackboards were replaced with state-of-the-art digital screens.
As he delved deeper into the academy, Huey's attention was drawn to the subtle, almost imperceptible signs of the psychological warfare that permeated the environment. The layout of the rooms, the lighting — especially the choice of artwork which seemed to follow the theme he had observed in the courtyard. Huey, ever observant, took it all in, his eyes missing nothing, his mind already at work.
"Mr. Freeman, Is it?"
Huey's iron-clad gaze snapped to his rear with the speed and intensity of the trained warrior he was, they instantly softened when he realized it was just a short young woman around his age. He looked her over, she had red hair, blood red that came down to her shoulders. She wore the traditional female Hyakkaou uniform, red blazer, white button-up, thigh-high socks, a very … short skirt …
And a chained Collar on her neck.
Huey's breath hitched in his throat, his eyes widened and trembling. In flashes of mere seconds, he remembered his captivity, his mind's eye flashing horrible images into his cerebellum. Images he'd been comfortable forgetting. Screams, pained cries, children being separated from mothers, fathers unable to protect their wives! His palms grew sweaty, his breathing was frantic, his —
"Mr. Freeman? I'm sorry if I frightened you."
Huey shut his eyes — hard. Taking deep breaths to compose himself. For a second … he wasn't here anymore. He'd been back in Freedomland. Back in Hell. Huey slowly opened his eyes, looking a bit sheepish at his extreme reaction. She stared back at him with this dead look in her eye. Like she was staring right through him. They were like empty pools of nothingness! Not a hint of light. He hesitated to even look into them. They reminded him of the dead eyes he fought so hard to bring light to 5 years ago … way too much.
The stoic young woman traced his line of sight, her gaze slowly narrowed. "My eyes are up here … Mr. Freeman. I would appreciate it if you would have some self-control and not stare at my bosom so lecherously." She practically whispered, her icy tone contrasting with her warm and rosy cheeks.
Huh … ?
"W-What?" He replied dumbly, her accusation completely breaking him out of the PTSD-laden episode he'd just had.
She didn't look amused, scoffing at him as her leer deepened. "Just my luck. I'm stuck being the guide of a shameless pervert!"
Huey's breath hitched in his throat again … only this time for a much more comical reason. Pervert? "W-What?!" He reacted.
She rolled her eyes, "Is the word 'what' the extent of your vocabulary? Or are you simply some foolish American tourist who's wandered in here in search of satiating his perverse sexual fantasy of Yellow-fever?"
Yellow-Fever? Wha—
"What?!" Huey huffed, now genuinely offended.
The redhead audibly groaned, the subtle lean of her hips making it pretty clear that she was getting agitated. "You are Huey Freeman, are you not?" She coaxed.
"Uh … Yeah." He said, Inwardly cringing at how unsure he sounded. So much for making a good first impression as the wise and intelligent Black Man. How the hell had it even gotten to this point?
"So you understand the words I am saying to you!"
Huey sighed, this exchange reminding him of a certain car ride with Ed and Rummy back in the day. "Y-Yeah …" he replied, pinching the bridge of his nose. Wait a damn minute … She was wearing a fuckin' doggy collar, how the hell had she managed to make him out to be the weirdo here?
"Good … pervert." She stated. "My name is Sado. Mikura Sado. You are Huey Freeman. Age: 19, Transfer Student, Freshman, and by some miracle, one of the very few students here on a full scholarship for your outstanding academic achievement — that you undoubtedly cheated to obtain no doubt. At the very least you are early, I can somewhat respect that. I will be your guide."
Huey, having finally regained his composure, leered back at her. Those were a lot of backhanded compliments that had to be addressed via verbal violation.
Translation: There was no way in hell he was finna let some literal bitch by choice press him.
Huey leered at her. Mikura's breath hitched in her throat as she stared back into her charge's eyes. They had completely changed, gone was the deer in headlights look. His pose, his posture, hell, even his energy had changed … completely.
It was almost scary …
Huey rested his hands in his pockets with a slight tilt to his stance. He sized her up, not bothering to be subtle about it. "So … Let me ask you a question…" Mikura, too stunned by his sudden switch up to say anything merely stared back.
"Why the hell are you wearin' a doggy collar?" he challenged, his previously shaky tone now smooth, deep, and legitimately perplexed.
Now it was Mikura's turn to adopt that very same look. "W-What?"
"Hey—it's a little extra if you ask me, but I mean, if it feels natural and that's what you're into then …" Huey continued, his tone just as smooth and matter-of-fact as ever. Mikura's lips had gone agape, her cheeks were nearly as red as her hair.
"I-I, um — W-What?!" She barely managed to stutter out.
Huey's face was a perfect mask of stoic indifference, but internally he was eating this shit up. "What country you from?
"What?" Mikura blurted out at the absurd question.
"What ain't no country I ever heard of, they speak Japanese in 'What'?"
Mikura absentmindedly tilted her head to the side, well aware of the ironic position she was now in. "Wha … What?!"
"Japanese!" Huey spelled out. "Do you speak it?!" Huey snapped. It wasn't loud or even very heated like Rummy's was of course, it wasn't necessary. His cadence had always been sharp enough as it was, judging by her reluctance to meet his piercing gaze, it had been just enough to make her squirm a bit.
"Y-Yes…"
"So you understand the words I'm sayin' to you"
The smirk on Huey's face was subtle, but it was just present enough for Mikura to notice it. She sneered at him, feeling more angry at herself for allowing him to get her out of character than anything else.
"Y-You —," she stopped herself from replying, merely taking a deep breath to center herself, her closed fists squeezed tightly at her sides. "Come. Freeman" she squeezed out through clenched teeth. Spitting his name out like bile. "We have a tour to finish … quickly."
She proceeded, expecting him to follow, which he did of course. A ghost of a grin materialized on his face. The sight of the steam practically radiating off her body let him know that he'd made his point.
~ -The Weight of Honor- ~
Touring the entire school was taking way more time than Huey had expected. He'd already had to suffer through a half hour with Miss. Side-Eye over here and they'd only just finished touring the building they were in. The Academic Buildings seemed separate from the outside looking in but in reality, they were all connected into a single construct for the most part, a few outliers aside of course.
The Main Academic Hall was of course centrally located, containing classrooms equipped with state-of-the-art technology. The rooms were versatile, accommodating traditional learning and gambling-based education. The Specialized Facilities included a library with resources on psychology, strategy, and game theory, and a collection of extremely large and spacious auditoriums for school assemblies, performances, and gambling tournaments.
Having scoped out that scene, Mikura was now leading Huey to the next spot. Across the way from the Academics were the chill zones: lounges, study spots, little hangouts, and a cafeteria so decked out, it made you wonder if you'd wandered into a five-star resort. It looked like a great spot for students to socialize and relax, fostering a sense of community within what was guaranteed to be a seriously competitive atmosphere.
As the two of them wandered the halls, Huey couldn't help but notice Mikura staying a few steps ahead, minimizing any need for chit-chat. Fine by him; but still, even now, he couldn't help but consistently eye the girl's neck, how could he not? She was wearing a damn collar! Now that he'd gotten over what had essentially been a Vietnam flashback, he wondered about it. Was it some kind of fashion? Not to judge of course … but in his experience, Japanese fashion was either some the dopest or the dopiest shit on the planet, and when it was bad it was really bad! He felt compelled to ask but he quickly realized that he really had nothing to stand on. Was it weird? Uh — yeah! … but was it his business? No. Maybe he was just projecting his own trauma onto her. Huey felt his heart skip a beat … just looking at that thing bothered him — deeply …
Thanks to Grandad's intifada against reading the damn fine print, he had quite literally been forced into slavery just Seven Years Ago. You didn't just shake that shit off. It imbued him with an even deeper sense of pride and awe for his ancestors. To go through 400 Years of the most brutal captivity in Human History … and to survive it … it was a strength he wasn't sure he'd ever have.
"Staring again, are we?" Mikura's voice sliced through the air, more accusation than question, breaking the substantial amount of ice between them.
"I wasn't... It's complicated," he fumbled, his voice tinged with a mix of defensiveness and a hint of shame. Tension visibly built in his jaw as he quickly diverted, "Let's just drop it. It's irrelevant." His focus shifted forward, a clear attempt to barricade his emotions and cut short the brewing discomfort.
Mikura's response was swift, her arms folding across her chest in a display of defiance. "Yes, let's pretend it was nothing... pervert." The iciness in her voice clashed with the brief flicker of curiosity in her eyes, a complex dance of emotions that hinted at something more beneath her surface scorn.
Huey's reaction was subtle; a slight stiffening of his shoulders, and a straight-up bombastic side-eye. "Woman, I am not checking for you. Let's get that straight." he retorted, infusing his comeback with a mix of irritation and bravado. He raised an eyebrow, challenging her, "Or maybe you just wish I was?"
Mikura heatedly scoffed, "Of course not. Disgusting. You overestimate yourself, foreigner."
That caught Huey's interest, his head cocked to the side, smoothly sliding his hands into his pocket as he eyed her collar, regarding her with a newfound curiosity. "Is that right? So, guess this is how you women get cuffed nowadays? Let me guess, your man got you on a short leash, huh?"
Her reply was quick, a mix of pride and a hint of annoyance. "My relationship with my Mistress is none of your concern. As her personal Housepet, I am very privileged."
Housepet?
Huey's mouth went agape, the term, the collar, hell - this entire conversation had thrown Huey for a loop. Housepet? Was this the type of freak-nasty public BDSM shit that went down at this place or were Mikura and her "Mistress" just outliers?
Before he could probe further, Mikura pivoted away, signaling the continuation of their awkward journey through the school grounds.
The tour continued with Mikura leading him into the Recreational and Extracurricular Activities wing, which included the school's surprisingly large Arts and Culture Center, which included music rooms, art studios, and a collection of theaters, supporting creative expression alongside academic and strategic pursuits.
But what had really caught him off guard was what came next:
Walking into Hyakkaou Academy's Sports Center and Gym, Huey couldn't help but gasp in awe. The expansive interior was illuminated by natural light streaming in through the massive, ceiling-high windows. The walls, painted in soft, warm tones, seemed to capture the essence of the sunrise, blending oranges, pinks, and purples that would shift subtly as the day progressed, mirroring the ever-changing sky.
"This is our State-of-the-Art Sports Center," Mikura announced, her voice echoing slightly in the vast, open space. The gym was equipped with modern fitness machinery that lined the walls, each piece gleaming under the soft light. The center of the room was dominated by various courts and playing fields, their boundaries marked in vibrant colors that stood out against the neutral tones of the floor,
Above, the ceiling was a work of art in itself, designed to be a window to the open sky. During the day, it allowed a flood of light to pour in, bathing the entire gym in a natural glow. By night, subtle lighting installations took over, simulating a starlit sky, creating an atmosphere that was both energizing and serene.
Huey observed the very few students around them, apparently he hadn't been the only one to show up early. Each of them were engrossed in their activities with a focus and intensity that was palpable.
As they moved through the facility, Mikura pointed out the high-tech training rooms, each dedicated to a different sport.
"Our academy values both mental and physical excellence," she explained, her tone proud yet as stoic as ever.
He couldn't help but allow himself to express a bit of joy. "Man … This is amazing! You mean to tell me we don't have to pay extra tuition to use all of this?" He said, his cautious nature taking back over almost immediately.
The stoic girl shook her head, the orange tones of the sunrise shining through the ceiling and framing her face rather nicely. "No. The Academy allows its students and faculty unlimited access to all of the facilities' many perks. 24/7."
Huey stared back at her, mouth slightly agape. He took a look around, noting the advanced equipment, some of which he had never seen before. It was all more suited to professional athletes than college students. It was clear that this place spared no expense in providing its students with the best.
It almost seemed too good to be true …
Mikura's deliberate cough snapped him back to the present. She approached with a stride that spoke volumes of her impatience, her expression a mixture of disdain and boredom. "I'm sure it's all a lot to take in Mr. Freeman, however, my time is precious and I'd like to consolidate it as much as possible. So if you woul-
"Mikura! Heyyy!"
The redhead's reaction to the sudden voice was straight-up comical. Her face scrunched up, letting out an audible groan. Huey fought the ghost of a grin that tickled the corner of his lips, instead looking in the direction of the voice that had called her out. A young man, evidently around their age, bounded towards them. He was out of his uniform of course, wearing elastic shorts and a tank top, perfect for mobility.
The newcomer skidded to a halt before Mikura, his grin infectious and his breaths measured. "Mikura! Long time no see! How was your summer?" His cheerfulness seemed boundless, a stark contrast to Mikura's evident displeasure. Huey, not particularly interested in this conversation, stood off to the side.
Mikura briefly averted her gaze, her response terse. "Hello … I am fine," she managed, the words hanging awkwardly between them. "How are you?" Her attempt at politeness was strained, clearly more a social obligation than genuine interest.
The young man let out a content huff, putting his hands on his hips and puffing his chest out. "Well, what can I say? Time in The Bahamas is great for the skin, check out this awesome tan of mine!" He bantered, lifting his impressively defined bicep and flexing for the hell of it, chuckling as he did so. After letting his laughter die down, he intently turned to the Afro-headed young man to his side, his energetic eyes momentarily flashing with an analytical spark
The young man had been spending his time staring at all of the equipment, his hands in his pockets as usual. He certainly was a hell of a sight … He was Tall, they were easily the same height, wide 3D Shoulders that could be seen through his blazer, and a gravity defying, flowing Afro so radiant that it framed his head like a crown, a halo even …
"So … this must be one of our new transfer students, huh?" He inquired. His tone was still upbeat, yet now, it carried an unmistakable undertone of intrigue. One that Huey hadn't at all missed.
Huey didn't turn around, merely tilting his head enough to look him in the eye.
His gaze narrowed …
The thick fog of tension every gambler worth their salt was familiar with choked the surrounding area. Their gazes locked into an unspoken battle of wills. Huey analyzed him … He was Tall, about his height. He was clearly charismatic, and his physique was surprisingly functional and proportional. He had red hair, almost as red as that of Huey's guide …
Most importantly … he wore a disarming smile on his face. A smile that hid the intense sharpness of his eyes …
The redheaded young man's smile deepened, he wasted no more time, walking up to him, sticking his hand out for Huey to shake. "You must be one of the two new transfer students here on a full scholarship. I've gotta say that's really impressive." He greeted, his tone was warm, steady - controlled…
Huey's appraisal was cautious, his eyes briefly flicking to Aoi's outstretched hand before accepting the handshake, shaking it with the manly grip, a silent battle of wills encapsulated in a simple gesture. The redhead chuckled at the intensity of their handshake.
"Ooh, firm grip - I like it!" He noted before trailing off …
"Name's Aoi … Aoi Mibuomi"
Their intense staredown had continued with their handshake, becoming the epicenter of a psychological standoff, their eyes glowing—a fantastical manifestation of their spirits.
"Huey … Huey Freeman."
The tension was so palpable that the few students in the Gym at this time had either stopped or slowed down their workouts, unable to turn away.
The two young men broke the handshake, and like magic, the tension largely dissipated.
Aoi's grin widened, breaking the tension with a laugh that seemed to clear the air. "You've got that gambler's aura… I can feel it—can't wait to see you in action."
Huey nodded his head in acknowledgment, his demeanor cool and stoic in contrast to Aoi's jubilance.
"Likewise Mibuomi-san" He replied plainly, but with an unmistakable interest.
Aoi scoffed, shaking his head. "Ah— don't be so formal, Seriously! We've got enough wet blankets here as is. No need to add myself to the list. Just call me Aoi!" He urged with an energetic smile and a nod.
Externally, Huey shrugged, internally he levied suspicion his way. He didn't want to knock the guy, he seemed cool, hell, he actually kinda reminded him of Caesar, but still … this was a school where gambling was king, which meant that all manner of deception had to have been commonplace. The best way not to get screwed was to not put himself in a position where he could be screwed. On the other hand, he wanted— no, needed "Friends" in the business sense. The fact that this guy was so cool with Mikura meant that he had to have some clout here. It was good way to get his foot in the door, but he wasn't just gonna drop his guard either.
"Hey man, If you insist. I've got no problem with that. You can call me Huey too if that makes you feel better."
Aoi nodded, "Yeah, that would be great! Say, why don't you stop by my Office for a little chat later on today after you get settled in? I don't wanna toot my own horn or anything but I'm a pretty big deal here. I could bring you up to speed on this place, who knows, I might even be able to nudge you in the direction of some great opportunities to make some real dough! So, whaddya say? You up for it?"
Huey paused for a moment, Aoi appeared to be a halfway decent guy, besides, he'd just stressed the importance of allies here, especially in high places. It was a good offer.
Still … Huey hadn't survived this long by being a dumbass … Aoi wanted something … It was the very essence of gambling. This wasn't inherently positive or negative, besides, it wasn't like Huey hadn't already been looking at this arrangement from a transactional perspective anyway …
"Yeah, I'll tap in. I know less than I should, it would be salubrious to build with you on the political and socio-economic culture of this Academy."
Mikura merely stood to the side, observing their interaction with a keen eye.
'It is very rare for Mibuomi-san to be so utterly captivated by someone …' she thought to herself, unable to turn away from their powerful introduction. 'To think that he would extend such an opportunity so quickly.'
Her eyes contorted into whirlpools of intrigue. A twisted, perverse grin materialized across her face …
'Mistress Juraku will be pleased to hear of this …'
Aoi smiled in return. "Great! Can't wait. Meet me in the Administration Hall. A203! Well, It's been fun but I've gotta get changed already." He said, sniffing himself. "Yikes! Don't wanna run back to the missus smelling like this, am I right?!" He joked before turning to Mikura.
The small young woman's eye visibly twitched as Aoi playfully rubbed the top of her head. "Hope to see you at the council meeting tonight Mikura, Bye!" He said before taking off to hit the showers. "
As Huey and Mikura watched him leave, Huey cast a quick look at his guide. "So, any reason in particular why you don't like the guy?"
Mikura sensed an undertone of phishing in his tone, alongside a little paranoia. She let out a mentally tired huff.
"Actually, I find him rather pleasant for the most part. I simply require adequate time to prepare for his …," she trailed off, "Eccentricities." She responded before turning her gaze towards the afro-headed young man that she had almost begun to tolerate. "Come, Freeman-san. It's time to show you where you'll be staying"
~ -The Weight of Honor- ~
As they approached the end of the extensive tour of Hyakkaou Academy, Mikura Sado led Huey toward a distinctly opulent building that stood apart from the rest, its elegant facade gleaming in the morning sun. "This," she announced with a hint of pride, "is Summit Hall, the pinnacle of student accommodation here at Hyakkaou."
Huey couldn't help but be impressed as they entered through the grand foyer, his eyes taking in the rotating art installations and the lush greenery that brought life to the space. "Looks more like a luxury hotel than a dorm," he remarked, his gaze drifting upwards to the glass ceiling of the central atrium.
Mikura smiled slightly, a rare crack in her otherwise stoic demeanor. "It's designed to be more than just a place to sleep. Summit Hall is where the academy's elite not only rest but thrive."
As they proceeded with the tour, Mikura paused before a sleek, glass-paneled door marked with the inscription "Study and Innovation Lab." With a wave of her access card, the door emitted a soft chime, swinging open to reveal the room beyond.
"This," Mikura began, stepping inside with a sense of reverence, "is where the future is shaped. The Study and Innovation Lab is designed for the elite minds of Summit Hall, a place where ideas meet execution."
Huey couldn't hide his amazement, The room was bathed in soft, ambient light, creating an atmosphere of focused tranquility. Multiple workstations, each equipped with state-of-the-art computers, augmented reality interfaces, and holographic projectors, were spaced throughout the lab, offering students the tools to bring their visions to life.
"Here, students have access to the latest in technology and research resources," Mikura continued, guiding Huey through the lab. "Whether you're coding a new software, designing a prototype with our 3D printers, or collaborating on a group project using the AR tables, this lab is designed to cater to all forms of innovation and study."
She led him to a corner of the lab where a large, interactive digital wall displayed a variety of projects currently being developed by students. "Every project you see here started as an idea in this very room. The academy encourages practical application of knowledge, believing that real-world experience is invaluable."
Mikura turned to Huey, her expression earnest. "The Study and Innovation Lab is more than just a facility; it's a testament to Hyakkaou's commitment to nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. We provide the tools, but it's up to students like you to build the future."
As they exited the lab, Mikura's words lingered in the air. This place had way better equipment than Martyr's Mantle did, it was insane! There had been so many projects he'd been wanting to work on but he'd never had the time or resources to do it. He found the corners of his lips curling ever so slightly. If he'd known this academy got down like this he'd have been here last year.
As they moved through the common areas, Mikura pointed out the various amenities. "The lounge is a great place to relax, offering virtual reality, gaming and an extensive media library."
Arriving at the café, Huey was taken aback by the array of cuisines on display. "All this is for the students?" he asked, incredulous.
"Only for those residing in Summit Hall," Mikura clarified. "The academy believes in rewarding excellence with excellence. Every detail here is tailored to enhance your experience and facilitate your success."
Finally, they reached a sleek door with a biometric scanner. "And this," Mikura gestured, "will be your suite."
The door unlocked with a soft beep after Huey scanned his thumb, and they stepped inside. The living area was spacious and bathed in natural light, the modern furnishings inviting. Huey walked over to the floor-to-ceiling window, taking in the view. "Incredible," he breathed.
"The academy spares no expense for its top students," Mikura said, watching him. "Your achievements have earned you this privilege. I hope you make the most of it."
Huey turned to face her, a serious expression on his face. "I didn't come here for luxury, Sado."
Mikura's expression was one of curiosity. "No? Then why are you here?" She asked, almost innocently. Huey averted his eyes, struggling to find the words.
"Guess I'm not sure yet." He managed. The redhead merely nodded, choosing not to pry.
She walked to the door, Huey walked with her, she paused as she stepped into the hallway.
"Welcome to Hyakkaou Academy, Huey Freeman. Welcome to Summit Hall. Do you have any more questions before I take my leave?"
He looked into the eyes of his guide, dull eyes, eyes devoid of life. Eyes that he recognized … they were the eyes of a slave. Of someone who was a shell of their former self.
It was unnerving. Huey felt his gaze narrow in on the collar around her neck for a moment. The term she called herself—'Housepet' struck a chord within him. Was she in some kind of abusive relationship or something? Whatever her relationship with her 'Mistress' was, it wasn't normal, that was for sure.
As these thoughts paraded around in his head, Huey pondered her question for a moment; wondering if he should pry…
"Nah … Thanks for the tour Sado. Guess i'll see you around."
"Perhaps," Mikura nodded, her response clearly for the sake of being polite over any real warmth. "If you're willing to accept my input, I wouldn't take Mibiomi's invitation lightly."
Huey lowly grunted, a gesture that Mikura took as interest.
"He is a member of our Student Council; our treasurer, and he seems to have taken a liking to you. It would be wise to visit him sooner than later if you wish to get a proper leg up over the competition here." She said, her voice belying an intensity Huey hadn't heard out of her so far.
"At Hyakkaou Academy, falling behind can be extremely dangerous."
Huey breath hitched in his throat slightly but before he could delve deeper, Mikura bowed and took her leave. His gaze followed her departure, a myriad of questions swirling in his mind. About The academy, about her, about everything really.
Huey shook his head, walking back into his room. Whatever that girl was talking about he was sure he'd end up running headfirst into at some point anyway. Why stress over it now.
Instead, Huey opted to take in the immensely eye-catching amenities on the way to the floor to ceiling window at the end of the suite —the burgundy couch, the Luxurious kitchen, the great bookshelf, the 60 inch TV, etc. He dropped his suitcase off by the door to his room, he'd have to move a couple things around a bit later.
Huey's curiosity led him to the window, offering a panoramic view of the academy's grounds. Students had finally begun to move in, they were arriving in droves of red, white, and black. Young men greeted each other. Some through waves, hi-fives and the occasional Americanized dap. Young women gave each other hugs, threw kisses at each other, and bunched up in excitement for the next semester at this seemingly wonderful school.
He gazed down at them, his expression melancholy. For the most part, the students seemed cheerful, and happy. He felt conflicted internally, on one hand this place seemed like it was going to be better than he thought. All of the useful things in this dorm alone would certainly keep him entertained for a while.
But… on the other hand—it all seemed a bit too perfect; and unfortunately, In his experience, shit was never this perfect! The cynic on his shoulder felt like it was literally just waiting for the chance to tell him 'I told you so!'
Could it be that it was all so simple?
Hyakkaou Academy, a syndicated place of higher learning, equipped with the most cutting-edge accommodations for its students to thrive. A gamblers' haven, designed to use it as a medium to prepare the youth for the winters of life …
All of this seemed too good to be true …
Not without a hell of a catch …
Anyway, if it really was some freaky shit happening here he was bound to stumble upon it eventually. For now, he'd allow himself to settle in. First, he'd unpack, and later, explore more of the campus; the extensive Shinto gardens for example were mostly uncharted during his tour with Mikura. That seemed like a good place to center himself, meditating in the fields alongside nature.
Still … being here. He couldn't shake off the feeling that he was on the cusp of something huge, something that would challenge every fiber of his being.
He let out a sigh, moving to turn away from the window but not before taking notice of something unique in the crowd — or rather someone..
Out there, amidst the swirling eddy of students caught in the fervor of the new semester's rush, stood a figure that seemed to defy the very currents that moved around her. A young woman, arms crossed, exuded an unshakeable confidence that set her apart from the sea of faces. Her stature was modest, yet the way she carried herself—with an erect posture that spoke volumes of her self-assurance—made her seem larger than life.
The wind played a whimsical dance with her attire, the red blazer billowing slightly, as if in tune with her indomitable spirit. Her blonde hair, styled in pigtails, seemed to catch every stray gust, framing her face in a halo of rebellion. But it was her eyes, those radiant, sparkling golden orbs, that held Huey's gaze captive. Their steely resolve fixed on the academy's academic wing with a determination that was mesmerizing.
There was an inexplicable aura about her, a magnetic pull. Even from this distance, she exuded a presence that was both enigmatic and familiar, striking a chord within him that he hadn't known existed. It wasn't really her looks that captivated him—She was cute, sure but so were a lot of the other girls he'd seen so far. He wasn't impressed by all that—Nah, it was something else…
For a moment, Huey allowed himself to be drawn into the spectacle, his earlier reservations momentarily forgotten. This young woman, with her defiant stance and unyielding gaze, seemed to embody the spirit of resistance that Huey had always championed. It was as if, in her, he saw a reflection of his own soul, a mirror image of his convictions and repressed desires.
Huey leered… for a moment … for just a moment …
He saw himself … 5 Years Ago ..
That fire in his eyes, at only 13 … burning like wildfire.
He saw The Revolutionary again
~ -The Weight of Honor- ~
'It doesn't matter where you're from, or what you do, From the moment we're born, we're divided into categories - hierarchies if you will. Some of these are malleable. For example: most of us aren't just flat-out ugly, right? If you want to attract a cute boy - or girl of course, whatever floats your boat; there are plenty of ways to go about it. Maybe you just have a shitty fashion sense? That's easy enough to fix right? Just do what every girl did in 7th grade and go on a Pinterest binge so you can find out what you like!' That Glo-up will definitely do wonders for your confidence!
Or maybe it's your body? Don't lie to yourself either, you know what he likes — and more importantly you know what you like, and how you want to look! You know damn well you shouldn't have eaten that pizza at 2 in the morning! Go on a diet, get in the gym for a while and eventually that double chin of yours will go bye-bye. Then that cute guy you want will come to you, and that's a promise!
Hell, maybe your make-up just isn't right for you? Ever think of that? Experiment a little. Or maybe the problem is that you're putting too much on and now when boys see you they either think that you're a total slut or that you're deeply insecure. Either way, that ain't a good look honey …
But alas, Tis' the beauty of free will. If you don't like something about yourself, you can change it with enough effort …
But … what if it's something you can't change?
What if you were born deaf, or maybe blind? Maybe you have a learning disability and you have a hard time retaining the information you take in. Or maybe you were born with a more physical disability, and all the basic beauty tips in the world won't just magically make you look like Regina George. What then? What if you were born into poverty, or even into a more "middle-class" family, getting rich seems like a pipe dream then doesn't it? More than likely, you don't even have the resources and/or opportunities to even get through the door. God forbid if you were born into generational poverty? How do you close that financial gap?
My point is, some things we can change, and some things we can't. Yet we're actively punished by society for the things that we can't! Or worse yet, we want to say that we can change something, and the world wants to tell us that we can't! …
Well … I say Fuck That!
I say that we decide for ourselves who we are, what we can and can't change. We are NOT slaves …
We are Free Damnit!'
The young woman couldn't help but mentally break out into a philosophical rant, seriously, she tried her best not to. Mary's gaze rested on the Academic Wing. There it was - finally! Hykkaou Academy! God, she'd worked her ass off to get here! Here she was, standing at the threshold of a place that could make or break her, armed with nothing but her wits and a scholarship that was her golden ticket in. The winter had been brutal, a relentless test of her resolve, but it had all led to this moment. This wasn't just another day; it was the beginning of her ascent to the top, they'd be kissing her ass in no time! She was determined that by the time she walked out of those gates for the last time, she'd have them all wrapped around her finger, either through admiration or fear — preferably a bit of both.
With a smirk that could only be described as predatory, Mary stepped forward. She was acutely aware of the eyes on her, scanning her, sizing her up as she passed. She didn't just walk; she prowled, embodying the confidence of a lioness on the hunt. To the girls, a paragon of confidence they could only aspire to match; to the boys, a tantalizing enigma, equal parts allure and danger. This was her debut on the grand stage of Hyakkaou Academy, and she intended to make an entrance that would be impossible to ignore. In Mary's world, second place was the first loser, and she was here to win, not just compete. She stepped into the academy, her spirit unchained and her resolve unbreakable, ready to conquer whatever or whoever dared to stand in her way.
End of C.R.E.A.M P1
And that's the first chapter of C.R.E.A.M. Sorry that it's nearly a week late, I had some personal things to deal with and I didn't have time to proofread it and get this chapter posted.
And yep, that stands for Cash Rules Everthing Around Me. Wu-Tang reference ofc but I also named this first arc that because it just fits so well. C.R.E.A.M Get the money is pretty much Hyakkaou's Motto.
So Huey Freeman is finally at Hyakkaou Academy, like I said before I originally planned to make the prolougue around two chapters longer before getting to this point but I decided against it. It's not really necessary, I can just as easily do what I planed to do with Huey already at Hyakkaou. Plus I realize what people are here for, you guys want to see Huey interacting with the Kakegurui Twin Cast, growing, gambling and creating allies and enemies, and I can promise you that there'll be plenty of that. I hope you guys liked the interactions between Huey and Mikura and Aoi. These are definitely two major characters in the story. I hope you guys liked Mary's introduction as well. The next chapter follows her, it's a different set-up than in canon so it won't be a rehash of the Manga. Mary is pretty much the Deuteragonist of this story so she'll have a lot of screen time and focus.
C.R.E.A.M Pt 2 is coming next Thursday so get ready! For my consistent readers I'd really appreciate it if you guys would leave some reviews on the story, It really helps with attracting more readers through social proof.
Thanks for the Support, with that being said, I'm out, Peace.