Author's Note: (I don't own the characters. They are from the Light novel/Anime/Manga called "Juuni Taisen" story made by NisioIsin) This story is not original and, it takes place after the Anime where the Winner got his One wish where the other 99 wishes got rejected. An AU Story Start. Let's not forget some War Criminal characters from the "Juuni Taisen vs Juuni Taisen" stories are there. So, I hope you learn them.
[Hey, I know there may be bad grammars, not clear details or something but, my mind is flooded with this! So please don't be harsh on me.. thank you..]
Chapter 4: "The Elegant Warrior who Lied the Most"
==ARIES/Friendsheep POV==
Before the Twelve War takes place
More than 12 months ago, things were going according to our plan. A certain group of War criminals have made their preparations complete and it's only a matter of time before the Twelfth Zodiac war(made by the Juuni Taisen Organisation) would take place.
Our leader, Sir Caesar, provides more backup plans in case something goes wrong. There were fourteen of us, no, I mean thirteen members of our team and each of us had different names based on the Western Zodiac Constellations that the bearded leader guy told us about.
I couldn't help but, remembering those times we shared the same goal of stopping the war was quite memorable and fun to get along eack other as companions. Even some veteran warriors approve that our teamwork and training skills are qualified for this mission, we compliment our abilities and talents as fellow warriors but criminals.
Of course, this mission, is nothing but a suicide act. As members of War criminals, no matter how much we want to survive,no matter how strong and capable we are, no one in the world ever wants us to live because of the crimes we committed. But that doesn't mean we'll die in vain. As a matter of fact, we do not fear death and our only priority is to fulfill our goals. It's up to us to put a stop to this. To stop the War from happening in this world.
Sir Caesar gave me a special task to apprehend a fellow target who could easily be found and operate things smoothly. I was prepared to take this part without complaints. Executing this plan was going well and infiltrating the enemy's territory was easy so sneak in. However, we underestimate them.
By the time we set our location to find our targets, we were ambushed by the strongest members of the Juuni Taisen organisation and caught one by one in ten minutes. It was so quick that we haven't even started to fight back.
Accepting defeat is an option but committing suicide just to save yourself is the leader's next choice if things don't go well. The moment when I tried to bite my tongue, the organisation stopped us from getting killed and they brought us to a certain private island called the Artificial Island.
The moment our team stepped foot into this mysterious island, it was the day we lost our battle and now, we are facing this punishments, I couldn't help but feel that something bad was going to happen to us.
After 12 months
Coming to the conclusions of witnessing the most vivid dream inside this tropical island, I realized that the War Criminals, or all of us have been trapped inside the virtual digital world for 12 months.
Getting stuck in a secret digital system where we hibernate, sleep and stay in a fake world to fight each other to kill in an endless battle arena, is insane but, it's a punishment for criminals like us.
All of this "Only one victor gets to leave this island" was complete nonsense and as a matter of fact, I'm the last one who got free from that world and woke up from the chamber.
I slowly rose up and sat, wiping my eyes after so many months of sleeping and then, I could see my fellow comrades in front of me, waiting to get myself under control. When I observed their clouded expression, I realized that everything we built for was nothing. We got caught by the organisations, our mission failed and we got stuck in that virtual world for 12 months.
Although that punishment felt terrible, we couldn't recall a single bit of how the battle took place. I only remember the rules and how we fought and treated it as a game. But we couldn't feel any pain or remorse behind it. It's like a dream where we forget everything once we wake up. My memories were fabricated at those times and I couldn't remember how I killed my companions or getting killed by them.
Except one thing,
A strange enigma bug happened. I don't know if this is a dream but I want to believe it. I couldn't tell my team about it.
Inside that endless virtual battle arena, there was a young teenager, who was wearing a cloak, and he suddenly approached me with a sword, which caused me to step back and accidentally use my ability by force.
My ability power is to hypnotize anyone and make them sleep for a hundred seconds. I can also put their corpse and disguise myself as them to confuse more enemies. If I activate and use it on anyone, the people around me will fall asleep and I win. But this time, I triggered my ability when I panicked, causing this power to spread around the whole arena and making all the War Criminals sleep before the countdown ends.
Not only that, I was stunned to see that the mysterious teenager didn't fall asleep as he's closer to my range. It's so strange how this young man was able to neutralize and wasn't affected by my abilities. Did he figure out my weakness? Did he study in advance before fighting me? If so, how did he know that?
Before I processed this sudden ambush, the young teenager used his sword sheath and slapped my face, forcing me to fall down. I couldn't stop shaking myself when I realized this guy knows the weakness of my ability. I struggled to get up and try to find ways to end him but the silver haired guy got to me first and injected me with a syringe.
A syringe that brought something from my arm and I felt that my body won't move. It must be a side effect. What kind of drug did he do to me? I was speechless that I got caught but I wasn't knocked down, which bothers me. What is he planning to do to me?
The mysterious stranger then commands me to use by ability and activate another 100 seconds to everyone in the whole arena and my body listens to him without my will.
"Darn it! I can't move. My body and my abilities won't listen to me. What is going on?!"
Seeing how he used my powers to sleep every War Criminals inside the arena made me upset. Even though I'm alive, being used brought shame to my pride of my family name. How dare he use me like that?! He's treated me like a puppet for his benefits. Just what is he planning to do to make them sleep for more than 200 seconds?!
Does he know that I have a limit? I tried to control my body and struggle to free myself many times but it won't work. While my thoughts are upsetting the fact this Silver haired stranger has been ordering me around, he injected me with a boost to improve my ability. This time, more than a hundred seconds to sleep those Unconscious War Criminals and it's giving me a shiver down my spine.
Just what is this guy planning to make all the War criminals do to keep themselves staying unconscious? There's not much I can do since he turned me into a puppet that won't let me move even a finger.
Time goes by and the mysterious guy keeps ordering me to use my power to extend more time. It's already been more than thirty minutes and how long is he planning to use me?! My mind wanted me to assassinate this freak but whenever I tried to struggle, this drug affects won't make me free. Seriously, where did he get those syringes and those drugs in this battle arena? Is he a doctor or something?
The time he gave me another syringe and injected my right arm, another power boost flowed through my body and I was being ordered to extend my hypnotic power again. He also gave me a boost to stay energetic and keep my eyes open before I fell asleep with my powers. We've been standing around here for so long while twelve bodies of unconscious opponents are still lying on the ground. I observed that this stranger wasn't interested in them, nor harming anyone but me.
Now that I think about it, the battle arena was about to commence until he showed up and forced me into this mess. Is he planning to stop our prideful war? To bring shame upon warriors who fight each other to escape this place? If that's how he was planning, I still won't forgive him. Even if I'm the last person to stay awake, using my ability on someone's control is full of disgrace. It's not even an elegant teamwork to appreciate with that stranger.
Still, he's been quiet since fifty minutes have already gone by. I wonder what he's thinking. But then again, it doesn't hurt the fact he forced a lady to use her powers many times. By the time he inject me with another syringe and order me to extend my ability side effect again, he suddenly reached into my ears and spoke with a silent whispering tone that made me surprised,
"I'm sorry. I'm sorry for this, I hope things will work in this trial again." The young teenager with a cloak answered, giving me a sorrowful look while grabbing the syringe.
That voice? For some reason, his small yet melancholy tone voice sounds familiar like I met him somewhere. But where? What battlefield?
It's already been an hour since I got treated as a puppet and my mind is getting dizzy. Am I going to suffer from those drug effects and die? Before I come up with the conclusions, my eyes are getting blurry and my vision is turning darker and darker.
The moment I closed my eyes and accepted the slumbering side effect of my ability, the last sight I could find was the silver haired guy getting coughed up blood and slashed on his back by a white sword. He then smiled at me and spoke like it was his last words and wanted to let me hear it directly.
"An hour has passed by, I kept your promise so, I'll thank you if it works."
By the time I woke up and remembered that dream, the War Criminal companions noticed that my tears flowed in my face and I discovered the truth of why I am here and why we are here.
The War criminals offered to explain the situation that the last person to wake up was me. They also remember how they got captured and brought to this place to be punished by participating in a virtual battle royal world that never ends. To think the organisations treated us like fictional game characters and dumped us. They think a player has all the rights to make us fools.
But thanks to some miracle, we manage to bail out. However, Everyone believes the reason why we manage to leave the virtual world is because I forced them to sleep and not get attacked until an hour passed by. I wonder if they remember that Enigma stranger. I tried to ask them but they gave me a blank confused look that made me think I'm telling a fairy tale story.
So they don't remember anything about the silver haired boy and now, they give me the credit? Not today folks, I want to tell them the truth but seeing how this situation got turned into a bleak just made us busy. Full of Mystery I mean, after waking up for 12 months without info, the leader has to act quickly and find ways to know what is happening in the outside world.
While everyone is busy trying to know the answers to the current timeline, my mind has already found a new goal that could change my ideals and get to the bottom of this.
Finding the Silver haired brat and learning his reasons before killing him.
I won't be satisfied until I know why he used me like a puppet and letting me take all the credits for saving my companions.
If I find him this time for sure, I'll try to act all friendly and good on terms with him until I betray him. I wonder what he's going to do when I befriend him and then attack him behind like one of those plot twisted movies.
This may seem like the seeking revenge part but I never thought that targeting a teenage warrior felt so exciting like my heart was racing with full of energy.
"Don't think you'll go and escape after what you did to me during that virtual battle." I muttered in silence as I clenched my fist and made my choice.
Oh boy, I can't wait to see his miserable face once he finds out that I'm alive.
After 12 months with three days
Three weeks have gone by and the team managed to land on the peaceful country without wars. It was a normal day for citizens to live in a society where they don't have problems around the world. Once we scout the area and book a private hotel for our shelter, we realised that this country has no connection outside.
But even so, we haven't given up as our leader used his efforts to search for more leads about the other countries while the rest of the gang have their own plans. I also have my plans that I did not want to share with my team. However, before we decide to mind our own business, the Leader, Sir Cancer has given us ten rules that we must follow at all costs, which made me wonder why he calls it now.
For some reason, the other seven rules won't interfere with my goal but the last rule of not killing someone is a fifty percent chance to break it. I'm not scared if I break it, at least they don't want me to spill the beans on where I'm going as long as I go back to this hotel at night.
Once the rules have been established, It's up to my next part to create some fake documents and enrol to that high school where that target was. No one has known that I already found the warrior of the Rat''s information regarding his location and status as a high school student.
Although everyone knows he's a champion of the twelfth zodiac war, the leader also gave us a rule not to kill him unless he gave us permission. If they know I'm planning to end him, I would end up as another traitor, a rebellion to them but, that wouldn't lose my pride as a former warrior.
No matter what, I must find the truth and let that brat reveal the truth to me. A revenge for humiliating me in front of my companions.
Remembering that goal fired me up as I witnessed the whole class staring at me with their amazed expression. The boys seemed happy that the transfer student is simply a beautiful and elegant girl such as myself while the girls look like they want to be friends with me.
Who knew that pretending to be a high school student and using my disguises could work so well. Even if I used my real name, there's no point in hiding it since this country doesn't have connections to other big countries around the world. In fact, this was my chance to find that target's face. I wanted him to show him that the transfer student was actually the girl he fought against in the past.
As I finally met my target close by, my mind went blank when I found out he was sleeping with his head covered by his arms on his desk. Did he ignore me? Also, how dare he?! A transfer student is supposed to be joining in his class with a familiar name and he wasn't reacting?!
In fact, most of the students and a teacher here have appreciated my beauty appearance of an elegant student while they aren't bothered about this guy who is always sleeping during class. Quite the Opposite side. Is that how his high school life was meant to be? Are you kidding me?
When I asked his seatmate to change seats, the student immediately accepted my offer and took the empty seat while I sat beside the sleepy target.
The moment I tried to greet him with friendly tone, the part where he suddenly rose his head and looked at me with his sleepy expression and, he replied to me with a tired voice,
"Nice to meet you uuum… person.."
Then, he slept back and yawned silently, making me wonder if he really heard my name calling or not. Who knew that an ignorant target could make me frustrated by the fact he doesn't recognize me?! That's it! I want to kill him!
I twitched my eyes in secret as I stared at the lazy lunatic. My bloodlust and killing intent is boiling me but I manage to embrace it and calm down, hoping I wouldn't get into trouble in this innocent class.
By the time the lunch break starts, everyone seems eager to join my desk and offer to hang out with me. Being an elegant foreign lady in class does get attention on her first day, huh? I accepted their offer and we had lunch together.
When I thought about joining the target on the table and coming to friendly terms with me, I looked on the left side and the seat was empty. That's weird, I could've sworn he was sleeping a while ago.
While I got into friendly terms with the classmates, I also got some info about the sleepy target and his strange habits that he often goes to the rooftop and eats all by himself. It is pretty rare for his habit when the wind is very cold outside.
This gives me a chance to trap him. So, I decided to go there and tell my classmates that I went to the toilet to not follow me around while lying. They agreed and allowed a popular girl like me to be free. Of course, they understand that someone would have boundaries and private life to spend with.
Once I reached the rooftop where students hang out on their break, the target was already lying on a bench and I was about to smile until I noticed there was a girl sitting beside him. She was the classmate in the front seat and I heard from those classmates that she's the class rep who was adored by them. Her name was Aiko, I guess?
But seriously, what is she doing here? Is she close to him? As my mind questions her relationship with the silver haired classmate, the girl has already noticed me and gave me a signal to join with her.
I accepted and approached them, observing that this short haired girl was giving a lunchbox food for the sleepy boy, who wasn't actually sleeping but looked tired and annoyed about her.
"I told you to eat Proteins, you never know it'll help you grow, Nezumi." Aiko said as she picked a fish by holding it with chopsticks and then, placing it closer to the boy's mouth.
"Like I said, I'm not hungry. I've already got a portion of bread. Why do I need more lunch again?" Nezumi was annoyed that he moved away from the food she was holding.
"To keep you healthy, of course. I'm worried about you. You slept again, didn't you? I can see your tears coming out from your eyes. You had another nightmare." Aiko said with a look of concern in her eyes. I didn't expect she would care for him. Although, I was touched by her concern with her classmate, the classmate on the other hand…
"It's none of your concern. I was yawning, that's all that matters." Nezumi said with a blank expression.
This guy.. Is he heartless? He doesn't mind someone worrying about him but he just didn't seem to thank her in return. After wiping his eyes, Nezumi turned his head and noticed I was there. I pretend to smile and asked them,
"Mind if I join you in your lunch?"
"Sure! The more the merrier." Aiko said with a kind hearted smile as she pointed me to the extra bench on the opposite side.
"You gotta be kidding me. I'm going back" Nezumi said as he tried to stand up and leave but his arm was pulled back by Aiko who forced him to stay down and gave him the lunchbox.
"Hold on, you haven't finished your fish? I suggest you eat them, Nezumi" Aiko answered.
Nezumi sighed back and obliged as he sat down and ate his lunch without complaints. Somehow, seeing those two reminds me of a Mother treating her son for a breakfast routine. My lunchbox was supposed to be empty because I got to join the table with my classmates but thankfully, I still have some leftovers so I can pretend to join with those two. Even if I'm full, I can still work it out and eat slowly while sharing good talks to find more leads.
"By the way transfer student, or what should I say, Sherry-san.. is it okay to call you Meland?" Aiko asked and I gave her a nod of approval, which she smiled back and continued by giving introductions.
"Nice to meet you then, my name is Aiko, I'm the class representative of this class. This guy over here is Tsugiyoshi-kun, but most of us call him Nezumi-kun. Feel free to call him that, he doesn't mind anyways."
When we shared our names and joined our friendly conversations, I observed those two classmates and noticed that Nezumi seemed polite with a sleepy expression when Aiko ordered him around.
"You two seem close for some reason" I commented.
"Of course, we were childhood friends. Nezumi and I have always hung out since elementary" Aiko said cheerfully. I see, no wonder he's comfortable with you.
"Back in those days until now, you always let everyone call me 'Nezumi'." Nezumi suddenly replied in an offensive tone, which gave me a jumpscare for joining our conversation while he's still eating.
"Why not? It's interesting to use those Nicknames. Especially when you're sleeping in class everyday." Aiko giggled and turned to me, clapping her hand once she remembered something "Oh by the way, everyone used to call me Cheshire. Cuz everyone likes how I smile.. hehehe…"
"Well, only those classmates who remember your role as a Cheshire Cat, will call you that." Nezumi mentioned. He chewed the fish food and swallowed it slowly, which Aiko seemed delighted in return.
"So you remember that time, that performance was great. I used to be part of the main cast back when we were elementary while you play as a Dormouse who absolutely does nothing but sleep."
"They even bullied me on the teacup" He muttered.
"That was part of the script. I mean, the performance ended up successful but I still have the photo. Do you want to take a look?" She asked me, taking her phone out and I nodded, going closer to check her phone.
On the screen, there was a photo of two little kids between the ages of five to nine, wearing a cat and mouse costume. The little girl with cat ears smiled a lot and her left hand gave a peace sign while the other hand was holding the yawning little boy's hand, who stared at the screen, holding the cheese cartoon props.
"So you two, look like this? So cute." I admit it with a blush on my face.
"Right?! I love this bit, I'm glad I cherish those moments"
"For a childhood classmate, you sure like to share these to other people, huh?" Nezumi murmured as he looked at us back.
"Why not, little Dormouse? I'm sure you'll be proud to hear how I compliment you." I said with a smirk, trying to get under his skin. However, he sighed back and stood up, not bothering to listen to our conversation.
"Forget it, I'm going back. Class is about to be back soon." Nezumi said as he handed the empty lunchbox back to Aiko and walked back to the door without looking at us.
At this point, I've come to realize that Nezumi's lunchbox was given by Aiko. Or did he steal her food? But that would make her sad.. or not.
In fact, Aiko seems joyful that her lunchbox is empty, meaning Nezumi ate all the food she made for him. Sounds impressive but Class rep, you're acting like a Mother or a tool to him. Doesn't that make it unfair for you? I don't understand her at all but she could make good use of my plan.
"Excuse me, is it okay if I join you next time?" I asked with a gentle smile, hoping to hang out so I could get to know more about this ignorant target boy and find the truth.
"Sure, Nezumi and I would love to. After all, the more the merrier." Aiko replied back whereas the person who already opened the door heard everything and let out a deep sigh,
"Give me a break."
==RAT/Nezumi POV==
As time goes by, the sun is setting down and Aiko wakes me up, telling me that class is over and the two of us are left inside, well.. not exactly two of us. It appears the transfer student is also waiting for me as she stared at me beside Aiko.
Seriously, who would've thought that hanging out with a childhood friend can also attract a transfer student to spend time on her first day with us? Welp, Congratulations Aiko, I believe you got your first companion to hang out the most.
I think this foreign student will replace me and hang out with her. I don't mind that as long as she's happy. After all, I don't want my childhood friend to hang out with a loser and lazy person like me. It could give her more trouble. So, I carried my things and joined them to leave the class and bid our farewells. I also gave Aiko a shoulder pat, a sign to show my support to take care of the transfer student from now on, hoping those two would get along well while I can go home and sleep peacefully-
And not. Didn't think that things would not go well.
For some reason, this transfer student is following me on my way to the train station. She waved goodbye to Aiko, who was heading the other way and went to walk straight beside me like the two of us share the same destination. Well, she may be a foreign student who recently arrived in this country and transferred into my class but, going home towards the train station with me seems off. Usually, someone with that elegant appearance could ride a fancy car, ride a bus or live in a nearby house but I wonder why she decided to take this route.
"Say, Sherry-san?" I cut the silent tension and called her out.
"Call me Meland-oneesan or Meland-san, I'm older than you." She answered proudly, which I sighed back and followed her correction.
"Meland-neesan, I have some questions." While saying that, I decided to use my abilities for my curiosity task. This won't hurt us at least and I still have my energy left to walk and go home.
[Hundredth Paths of Nezumi!]
I used my hundred paths to ask different questions and learn her answers simultaneously.
In One Path, I asked what her deal with following me around and I tried to shoo her away but Meland quickly replied back with a grin, "I wasn't trying to follow you. It's just a coincidence we shared the same route. I guess your house is near to my home."
Okay, first of all, I wasn't planning to go home and I'm on my way to the train station where I can stop by the grocery store. If I were going home right now, I would've headed straight to the other road near my school but I forgot to buy some dinner so, I'm taking a long route but, seeing her in the same direction and claiming that she wants to go home by following me is out of line.
And Second of all, I can see her motives. Using Lies, I can tell that by her face. Even if you're some Wolf in sheep's clothes or some lady who charms others, I've already experienced being lied to and betrayed from my past. It must've been from my previous learning experience by that Rooster warrior that got me to understand the difference between a liar and honest person. I'm also sure I eavesdropped and heard that you mentioned to Aiko that you lived near the school, so I wouldn't be surprised if you're stalking me. Although I want to tell her to leave me alone, I don't have the guts to say that.
Another path made me ask about her reason to hang out with us and she told me this, "I want to hang out with you so I can be friends with Everyone! It's how friendship works!"
That sounds like childish ideals and normal for us but, I wonder why she was eager to join our lunch on the rooftop, especially the fact that she was pretending to eat her lunch box even though I know she ate a while ago with our classmates. I don't even know what she's thinking but, I don't bother arguing over that.
Aside from that, I also told her that I'm going somewhere in the other direction and walking at full speed but I didn't expect she would follow me without question. Even if I told her I would stop at the grocery store or heading to meet up with someone important or a friend, she would immediately go with me with a sly smirk on her face.
That does it, she's clearly a Stalker in my eyes. My face dropped a sweat when I experienced how intense I have to deal with a mysterious transfer student. It's not like I owe her something. I just want to be alone but hanging out with her seems worse.
The other paths helped me experience who she was and where she came from but, some of them are fifty percent lies and truths that brought her trust issues. In the ten branches that I mostly believe is true, the transfer student accidentally explains that she was currently living with her fellow friends at a hotel, planning their business plan or something. Looks a bit fishy but, it's their life so I don't mind. However, when that path breaks, she immediately shut her mouth and glared at me, instantly finding out that she told some secret news to me. This path could be bad if I keep asking more, so I deleted that route.
Other times she fell for my question and answer honestly was when I tried to mock her and caused her to express her emotions and then run away. I mean, making a girl cry is the worst but, why does she felt hurt when everything I told her is the truth? Have we ever met?
It also makes me wonder in the other route that I asked her about "how fate brought us again" as a spare question, even though it's cringe but I tested it out and this answer turned into a more mysterious result than I expected. In fact, the Transfer student told me with a smile, "If that's how you felt, then, maybe you can tell me why you did it? Why did you save us and give all your credits to me?"
"Saving you? Giving Credits? Have we actually met before?"
Never in my entire life did I remember this elegant person to spare and give her the reputation, especially when I used to fight on the battlefields from a young age till last year, I don't think I remember meeting her. I always ignore everyone and go back home whenever I finish my job, but I don't remember owing to someone nor spending my time to save them for. Maybe it was an accident meeting or a simple misunderstanding?
As far as I know, I believe she and I haven't met on the battlefield in the past. In fact, she doesn't look like a Warrior but, if she does, then meeting her to get closer to me is like the same thing as "those guys" who want some revenge for killing their relatives. What a bother, guess I have another battle to fight with.
The way she looks at me, hoping that I remember her, keeps bothering me. I don't want to get involved in the past. So, I regretted that question and rejected that route. It sounds like I'm the one negotiating instead of asking as a fellow classmate.
But most of the branches didn't try to hurt me or end my life, so I think it's safe to say she bears no harm. Unlike those other students who always gang up on me and get my money, this transfer student shows no signs of ill and, maybe hanging out with her might be normal. For now.
And yet, I don't want her to know about my home. If she's really a Warrior and targets me for plotting a revenge of killing those eleventh warriors, then, my battle of staying away from her starts now.
"Are you hungry?" I used this eighty seventh route and asked an obvious question, which Meland tilted her head in confusion. I rubbed my head and looked away, pretending to be embarrassed as I continued, "I was planning to head for a special treat before going home. If you don't mind, can you join me?"
"Oh my, is Aiko's lunchbox not enough for you?" Meland gasped, hiding her mouth with her hand.
This lady… I can see she's pretending to be surprised when I tell her reason. Is she teasing me? Is she trying to guilt trip me for my childhood friend? Anyways, I'm not here for emotional turmoil. I sighed back and ignored her little act.
"I'm asking politely. It's for your first day, right? You meet everyone and get your first friendship success, right? Why don't I give you a treat in return?" I asked, lifting my head to look at her face and wait for her answer.
Meland thought about it and ten seconds later, she gave me a nod of approval as she walked beside me and replied back, "Sure, I'll accept your offer."
Honestly, I'm not surprised by her answer. I wasn't happy if she accepted it or not. In fact, even if I don't invite her, she will follow me whatever she wants. No matter how much I gave an excuse to leave her and head out somewhere, she will always follow me around without question. There's no other way to avoid her and run away. To make sure I'm safe, maybe this route will be fine.
The moment when the two of us headed for the place near the department store, Meland was surprised that I invited her to the Cheese Store, where a small restaurant full of dairy food decorates inside. Given by her confused reaction, I can see why she doesn't like small places for an elegant person. I mean, it's not like I want to show her a good restaurant, especially going to fancy restaurant is quite expensive. Honestly, I don't understand girls in the first place.
However, the Cheese store is not just buying dairy foods and selling cheese but, it's also a small cafe where everyone can have their breakfast, lunch and dinner. An old place that has been my favorite restaurant ever since I was a kid. I often go out there and buy some cheese for a cheap price and sometimes, the workers scold me for sneaking there without my parents permit.
It's not my fault that I got obsessed with cheese, given how I was born and raised in that warrior clan. Pretty ironic, I would say. But going there feels nostalgic. I haven't gone there ever since the Nine month sleep and I can't tell if they updated their service or not.
As Meland and I took a vacant seat on the table and ordered something, we didn't share a glance as we used our phones and waited for our food to arrive.
It has already been fifteen minutes straight and I turned off my phone to save more batteries. I glanced at Meland and wondered what would happen if I kept asking her reasons for following a boring person like me. I also wonder if she has problems about me, maybe having a grudge or how I lied? I don't know.
Look, even someone can tell the first person they met and following them around seems off like being obsessed with them. It's kinda creepy, not gonna lie. I hope she won't end up like that.
Suddenly, my thoughts got lifted out and were interrupted when Meland waved her hand and chuckled, "By the way Nezumi, thanks for this invitation. I never expected you wanted to spend time with me in this.. small cafe. I could make you one of my Friendsheep's top ten list."
"Appreciate. Also, is that a good thing or not? I'm not sure why you suddenly call me a friend."
"Hehe.. well, it's my personal common courtesy from you, my friend. You can call me 'Friendsheep' when it's just the two of us." She smiled back, which bothers me if she's saying something hidden riddles that sounds genuine.
Before I got to deal with her words, I noticed someone coming from the door and his face was familiar. Wait a second, that guy.. Oh no.. not him…This is bad-
I immediately took the menu paper and hide my face while Meland was staring at me with a questioned look as she tilted her head,
"What's wrong Nezumi? Is calling my nicknames really embarrassing? It was a joke, you know." Meland chuckled back after seeing how I panicked and ducked my head.
Damn lady! Read the room! Can't you see I'm hiding from someone? And wait, if you're calling my nickname right now.. that also means he's-
"Nezumi-kun! It's been a long time, Old pal!" A young man suddenly spoke behind me and he gave me a slap on my back.
It hurts a bit but I took a step back, giving him space to sit beside me. That young man, or a man with a height of thirteen years old, appeared with a big excited look on his face. I can't believe he's here. Of all the bad timing, I always forgot "Those groups" are the ones who keep meeting up with me in this restaurant. Oh, how forgettable I am, does that nine month hibernation caused me to become a senile?
"Long time, uumm.. Waver. I'm glad to see you're okay."
"Oh boy, you remember me! That's great to hear that." He gave me another small pat on my back, which I told him to knock off. The young man folded his arms and stared at me. "Also, the way you say, "See me okay" or something? You didn't even turn an eye on me. You ignored me again! As for the past nine months you disappeared, your classmates were worried about you. But then… still….. I have something to say to you."
The young man named Waver smirked as he offered a hand to me and I held it before he continued, "Welcome back."
Waver's voice sounds brightened and relieved to see me after that nine month disappearance. As much as I appreciate his concern about me, my emotions don't seem to relate or felt joyful for some reason, but I decided not to share my thoughts and immediately changed the topic. Luckily, our food has already arrived, which brings us extra time to wait for explanation while we're eating before it gets cold.
Speaking of that, Waver seemed to notice there was someone who was listening to us. The person on the opposite side of the table, Meland, stared at us with a confused look as she wondered if I'm his friend or not. Waver, on the other hand, gives me a mischievous smirk, making me feel like he's up to no good.
"And Well well well, what do we have here? I did not know you invited a friend over to your favorite cafe, Nezumi." Waver leaned his head closer to my ears so that only both of us could talk. "Say, is she your girlfriend? Did I interrupt your date?"
"No. Just classmates, Nothing more." I answered it directly with a cold tone. My blank facade expression seemed to bore him and I noticed my food was almost cold. Aside from me being teased by, Waver wasn't letting it go as he decided to try to talk with someone else instead.
"Uumm.. and who might you be?" Meland asked politely. I almost forgot she was there. By looking at her expression, she seems to be cautious when someone interferes with our business.
"Oh, how rude of me. I forgot to introduce myself, my name is Waver. One of Nezumi's old pals. We met in this cafe last year and we got along so well hahaha." Waver said cheerfully as he added a small laugh in the end. Meland was speechless and kept observing Waver, making this tension awkward but I had to intervene and stood up.
Waver listens when I introduce him to the transfer student but, when I told her name and how she became my classmate today, he suddenly looked like he's thinking seriously with his hand on his chin and he observed her in his sharp eyes while muttering her name with a small whisper.
"Meland Sherry, huh? Though by the looks of it, you don't look like you're from here." He spoke about how suspicious and intense the room feels. Suddenly, he waved both hands and changed his mood back to his usual cheerfulness, "Oh well, I hope you take care of him. Safely please."
The last sentence made Meland widen her eyes in surprise while Waver said in a sudden cold tone before bringing his childish smile back. Honestly, I don't know what they're talking about but I don't need to find those pointless acts.
"Well, I don't clearly understand your topic and by the way, while you're here, I have a question." I said it with a straight face and Waver gave me a nod of approval. I continued and glanced around the area.
"I was wondering if that Manager is here. While coming here, I was planning to ask him about the type of cheese he serves on the menu so I could, you know, find something cheaper in the store next time."
I know Waver has some friendly relationship with the Manager of this store and those two along with "his group" are closer in the past. And to think my mind recalled that time on how he served some good foods and extra cheese for me. Even though it was his job, the Manager treats me like a favorite customer who knows a lot about my special treats.
In the past, whenever I'm done with my battlefield work, the only place to give me some refreshments to eat outside was coming to this Cheese store. The manager always helped me cheer up for some reason. Even though I spoke like an ignorant brat and treated him like a fool, the Manager didn't mind about that as he wanted some company. Perhaps he, too, prefers some peace and silent customer like me. I don't know. After getting cooped up in my home, I was planning to start making some homemade foods and maybe, learning with the Manager's technique seems like a good idea but, I wonder if he's coming.
"The Manager, huh?" Waver thought up as he looked at the ceiling. It took fifteen seconds to stop his weird noises while he's thinking and then, he looked at me back and replied, "Hhmm… well, you may not know but he's on a trip somewhere very far away from here. He probably won't come back until he's very very satisfied with his endless vacation hahaha."
"I see. That's a shame then, I was looking forward to see him." I said while looking down. I expected this would happen but I wonder, why do I feel like I'm never going to see him again? All those foods they serve now are nothing good other than the Manager's service. I missed his menu but still, the past is the past and there's no getting out in this one.
"Well then, since you two are here, maybe I could tell you a funny story while you're eating." Waver clapped his hand, showing he's excited to bring entertainment for us.
"A funny story? How interesting." Meland said as she took another spoon on her food and ate it.
When the two of us listened to Waver's stories as he put up some hand gestures, he summarized, "Hear me out, there was a story about a Songstress and a Lover from the Tarot cartoon show. Those two are always close as best friends but one million nights, something begins to change and the Lover turns into Rebellion. Whether it's a good choice or not, the Lover ends up rebelling against the Songstress deals and steals the spotlight, both ended up saving the Songstress life but it costs one price, losing their relationship trust. In the end, the Songstress held a grudge against their former best friend's heroic deeds and even now, they still can't understand the former Lover who saved them but sacrificed themselves till the end. For the sake of their best friend, huh?"
After that, we couldn't find out if that story could cheer us up or something. Meland shook her hands as she stopped eating, which leaves her speechless while I, on the other hand, don't understand the whole thing about his story and I find it boring and nonsense, it also loses my appetite for some reason.
"About that.. is that even a funny story? It kinda sounds like a tragic tale between best friends." I said, trying to convince him that this story is not as funny as he thought.
Waver just let out a smug, folding his arms and said proudly, "Oh trust me, it does get even funnier than Romeo and Juliet. I'm still halfway through the episode before the final plot twist but, I'm not gonna spoil you unless you're interested."
Seeing how we looked down after that weird story he brought up, Waver tilted his head in confusion and commented, "You two don't seem to enjoy the night there."
Easy for you to say, brat. Though I have no right to say that out loud since he's older than me. I believe he told me once that Waver was actually more than thirty two years old despite the appearance. Speaking of that, Waver noticed how gloomy this tension is, the more he felt determined as he slammed the table and gave us a surprise back.
"How about some place where you can be happy? Come on, follow me! That goes for you, Meland-chan."
==ARIES/Friendsheep POV==
I want to complete my mission in peace. Though, I know the word peace will never happen because this world is full of wars, it's a long way ahead. Speaking of war, it seems someone is interrupting my battle as his "so called Old pal" arrived in this store. Did Nezumi invite him to stop me from following him? Though it doesn't seem to be the case because he was hiding from him in the first place. Well, if I hadn't called his sleepy nickname just now, that Waver young man wouldn't find us here.
And boy, meeting up with him is starting to lose my mind. That Waver guy looks suspicious from the moment I laid my eyes on him. The way I see it, he doesn't look smart and is often carefree and naive but, the more he talked with me, the more I felt uneasy, giving me a theory that this guy knows what I'm doing.
It was kinda off when he brought that non funny story to us. I could portray it as a certain scenario happening in the past. Nezumi looks sleepy but his face is melancholy to hear the two characters of the story while one of them made me realize this could foreshadow what I'm going to do in the future. No, that's not possible. I know Waver's messing with me.
I'm not sure but I have a feeling he made that up just to get under my skin. The way this Waver smiles at me, I couldn't tell if it was genuine or not. It's like he knows what I'm going to do next and plans to ruin my goal. Is he really one of Nezumi's allies? I learned he was friends with him before that nine month disappearance case. Even so, I have a feeling he is not the person to underestimate with.
Minutes later as we finished our meal, Waver invited us to a place to change our mood and have fun. Near the department store, he brought us to the Arcade with full of game machines. We watched him converting his money to game coins and split them for us.
He pointed to the shooting arcade game for two players and offered to try it out while Nezumi would take the Whack a mole and play it to collect more tickets.
At first, I didn't want to do this but rejecting him could probably put a smirk on Waver's face, it would also lose my dignity. So, I accepted his challenge and Nezumi went to the right side and played the Whack a mole arcade all by himself.
Of course, in the name of the Sherry family and a War Criminal of the Aries, I don't want to lose to a stranger in an arcade game. Luckily, I know some techniques to play those silly games in the past. I'm fine with it.
When Waver tossed some coins and allow two players to use their toy guns and start the game, he explained that the rules will be shooting the target in front of the screen and earning points. The one with a highest score will be the winner while the loser has to listen to the winner's orders. The moment the shooting game commence, Waver slowly starts the conversation while keeping his eyes on the starting game.
"A transfer student who hangs out with a guy on a first day, looks suspicious I would say" He said. I could feel he shows his sneaky grin on his face again.
"I don't know what you're talking about. It was coincidence we hang out as fellow classmates. Nezumi even shows me around this place." I answered and yet, it bothers me that Waver seems like he's playing around under my skin.
"That's weird I could swear Nezumi is too tired to deal with those little things. I wonder about that." He questioned while shooting the target on the game.
A small chuckle let out as I continued, "Maybe he sees me as someone worthy to be his friend"
"Very touchy. And Little Nezumi has finally found someone he could formed a friendship bond for a friendly elegant foreign student like you, ain't that sweet, Meland-chan" Waver's voice started to change from being cheerful and joyful pretending sound to a cold menacing with a deep grin when he said the last line. "Or should I say, Friendsheep?"
Looks like the cat's out of the bag, or should I say, a wolf finally reveals under the sheep skin. Guess, there's no point of hiding it and it might be better to spill out the beans. Even if I lie, I felt like this little man will eventually tell Nezumi if I don't listen to him. And the fact Nezumi is far away to play with his minigame has saved us from getting eavesdropping. It looks like we could use a private serious chat while playing.
"So you know? What are you scheming about?" I asked, still focusing on the game target monster and shooting them to earn points.
"Simple, to protect an old pal from an elegant warrior who lies a lot." Waver answered directly. He doesn't sound like he's lying but the way he acts so carefree bothers me. "Still, it was impressive you made it this far. I'm sure your friends made it as well but, did they order you to do this? Or was it your only plan to hunt the Rat down?"
"And why should I answer that to a mere stranger like you? I don't mind about you getting my nerves on but one truth to spill on that Rat could lead you downfall." I spoke in a serious way while earning higher point in the game.
Even if I'm not looking at him, my bloodlust and killing intent could make him feel like I'm serious of my warning. Then, Waver sighed and kept playing as usual with a carefree tone.
"You're threatening me. Yet, why should I do that? You think I would do that in a public place like this? It doesn't look interesting to be honest."
"So you're sparing me for something else then. Is it for him? You think Nezumi would be glad if I were gone because of you." I asked bravely.
"You talk too much but, to answer your question. Probably." Waver said but sounded so disappoint all of a sudden. He continued with another sigh but he smirked back and reply, "And first of all, the reason I let you live is simple. You'll be the Messenger."
A Messenger? I paused my mind while thinking what he's up to. I'm sure this stranger has something that could bring trouble.
"There's something I want you to send a message for your team." He replied back.
"Depends if its valuable. Of course if I win this game, you'll explain every questions I asks for. Truth or I'll slip your throat in the name of the War Criminal of Aries." I declared as I finally looked at him and intimidates him. However, Waver doesn't seem surprised as he let out a sigh in return.
"Former Warrior gal, or whatever it is, I'll take your challenge. Though, the game has already over."
Over? But we were just getting started. As I turned my eyes back to the screen, the game was already over and the high score for two players were revealed.
"What do you mean? I lost." I accidentally released the controller and couldn't believe that I, Meland Sherry, was lost against him. I swear I received so many points when we were talking. What's going on? How come he get so many points and is better than me?
"I win, so the loser has to do what the Winner says, Hehehe." Waver said cheerfully as if he's trying to remind me of something big is going to happen.
This is bad. If he wanted me to be a Messenger and order me to betray my friends, I would try to destroy him before Nezumi comes back. For some reason, I'm starting to hate how Waver wins everything and gets away with it. But now that he's the winner, it's a matter of time before the truth reveals. I gulped and prepared for his wishes while he just hummed and smiled before his voice suddenly got deeper when bringing his order as a winner.
"Friendsheep, before I let you off, my order is the truth. Just to make it short, be honest when I ask you this question." I gulped once again, causing my mind to be nervous more than before. I nodded and accepted his condition. Waver cleared his voice and glared at me as he spoke the Winner's wish.
"What is Nezumi to you?"
"Huh? Uuuhh…" I was expecting he was serious but not like this. I couldn't think of the words as he looked at me like he demand a real honest answer. To think he asked for my personal thoughts instead of a War Criminal's case. Well, that saves up but, hearing this questions sounds easy to answer. If I lie, that would treat me more like a loser myself. But if I tell him the truth, he wouldn't understand my full story. And first of all, I truly don't know my relationship with him. Maybe telling a classmate would be a good idea but then again, he knows a foreign student on a first day wouldn't immediately treat it as a mutual friendly alliance.
If I told him that Nezumi and I used to be enemies and now, becoming a warrior ally, that would make things worse. Waver would definitely brought that topic to either Nezumi or my team, which drove me crazy to realize this little man might spread my answers to everyone I know and mess my reputation. Honestly, I need to consider this question now that Waver's acting serious about me. Before I reveal my answer, Waver turned his eyes behind me as if looking to someone coming by.
"You two seems to getting along well." Nezumi said as he looked at us with a blank expression.
Wait, when did he get here? And also, I'm thankful I didn't answer his question out loud. That would make things more embarrassing if I told my relationship in front of him. Now that Nezumi's here, I'm sure he can change the topic and-
HEY! You can't just look at me with those eyes and wait for me to answer your stupid order in front of him! Waver crossed his arms and looks disappoint at me. He seems to be waiting for my answer through force, which I felt it would be a hassle.
Don't tell me I had to listen to Waver and inform everything I've been hiding for?! My mind seems occupy with questions that I couldn't find a solution to break it through. Calm down, don't be panic.. please, not like this.
"Nezumi-kun, looks like your game is going better. I can see you have that tickets, think you let me buy some price some price for free?" Waver ended up changing the topic and asked Nezumi in a carefree tone.
"Sure thing. Be my guess." Nezumi nodded as he handed the tickets over to him. Waver finally got the tickets and he looked at me before he gave a small laughter and cover his mouth from getting louder.
I finally realized he's watching my expression being worried and panicked that he was just messing with me. Even with or without the winner's orders, he's trying to play pranks on me. Telling the truth wasn't his game in the first place. He just wanted to watch my reaction for obeying his pointless truth. How dare he humiliate me?!
Frustrations on my mind has gone off and my new goal for hunting this little man after Nezumi boils my blood. On the way to form a hatred to that stranger who went to the counter, I noticed Nezumi was looking at me with suspicious looks. His hand on the chin and muttered something, "Hhhmm.."
"What is it?" I dropped my sweat and wondering what he's thinking. He tried to pick something on his bag and gave it to me.
"Is that?" I looked at that object and wondered. A cute fluffy object with a sheep mascot and happy face like a baby doll. Its red ribbon on the doll's collar has cute patterns attached with a bell.
"A sheep plush toy from the slot machine. You've been staring at it before you played with him. I think you should earn it." He said.
"Thank you…" I squished the little doll gently while hiding my face. I didn't want to accept it but looking at that beautiful toy made me want to keep it, which loses my frustration feeling on that Waver guy.
What is this feeling of receiving a thoughtful gift from the target I was planning to eliminate? He's not trying to be a good guy and avoid his death fate for me? Or maybe he's a pretender but, sending gifts seems like I owe him something. In order to remain my prideful priorities, I decided to return the favor.
"Come with me." I grabbed his hand and forced him to go along with me.
"Huh? Wait.. But Waver.."
"Just Come with me, it'll be quick." I said while dragging him outside and took him in front of the arcade, where the department store is.
I went to the Winter clothes collection and looked around to find a suitable color for him. I turned to Nezumi, who wonders what I'm up to as he yawned and watched me silently. Once I'm done observing his looks, I turned back to the clothes and touched their silk, checking their colors. Then, I decided to choose the best one and bought it.
"A scarf huh?" Nezumi received my gift as he looked at the shopping bag with a dark silver thick scarf. He commented back, "It could keep me warm, I guess. Thanks by the way."
"No problem". I said with a prideful tone. As a daughter of the chairman of Clothing Brand Industry, I have good experience of making clothes and choosing a best cloth for anyone with different age. Whatever choice I make, I'm always good at selecting clothes that suitable to someone to wear it. I haven't let him try it on and yet, I'm confident this scarf is suited for him because of the colors. Even if its a normal and cheaper scarf, their design and texture matches his appearance, which I think, it would make him cool to wear it.
"Now that we're even, I should probably go now, Goodbye." I gave him a wave as I leave the department store without turning back.
Nezumi doesn't try to stop me as he looked speechless and wave his hand in return. I don't plan to say goodbye that little man Waver. Even if he's looking for me, I'm sure Nezumi can explain it for him. I'm probably sure that Waver guy won't even reveal my true identity to Nezumi, even if he did, that would be quite helpful. I really want him to recognize the person who fought in that VR endless battlefield last year.
One thing I did well when I left those two was that giving him a scarf gift wasn't actually a repayment favor in my mind. In truth, I actually put a small GPS device hidden on the silk cloth where no one can reach it. Not even Nezumi, with no sewing skills could track down that small hidden device planted on his gifted scarf.
I'm sure my plan goes along well if I checked it tomorrow night. As for now, I'm kinda tired to think about that Waver guy. Maybe tomorrow will be a better day.
The Next Day
The second day on my transfer student life in class goes well. In fact, the room suddenly brightens up when most students that I pass by greet me cheerfully as if they wanted to get along with me. I smiled and greet in return, trying to stay my character as usual. So this is what it means to be a popular student in class, huh?
As usual, I sat on my desk and wait for another class. Aiko greet me with a smile and talked with her seatmates, the other boys greet me politely and Nezumi.. Well, he came right at the perfect time, looking sleepy. When the boys find the sleepy boy passing by, they ignored him and went to share topics with me. As much as I have no interests, Nezumi doesn't usually hang out with everyone in class due to being lazy and sleepy he is. What a waste of youth. I'm sure he's going to regret this when he grow up.
Speaking of that, I noticed he wore that Silver scarf I gave him yesterday. A silk scarf with better texture design covering Nezumi's neck looks good on him and the students who took one glance at him seems amazed by his sense of fashion. To think my hunch my was right on picking the right clothes for him. I wanted to proud myself but I heard someone called his name and find out Aiko greet him with a warm smile.
"Good Morning Nezumi. That scarf looks good on you." Aiko said.
"Well, Meland bought it and gave it to me yesterday" Nezumi replied as he looks at me back, which brought all the students stopped their minds and confused, wondering what he did to their good looking elegant classmate. The boys turned their sharp eyes and glared at Nezumi while the others who heard his conversation gasped.
"What?! Sherry-chan did?! To that sleepy guy?!" One of the boys got irritated.
"Out of all someone, she gave it to that Rat?!"
"He even called her first name. What's up with him?! That's worse thing to say for a freak like him!" One of the girls spoke in a disgusted tone. It seems the tension is getting wild with nasty negative comments around Nezumi.
"Now now everyone, I know this is a surprise but let's all calm down and-" Aiko tried to settle things out but some boys kept glaring at Nezumi who doesn't seem to aware of the jealousy surrounding him. In fact, he made a brave move as he stepped closer to my seat and picked up on something from his bag.
"Oh, I forgot something. Waver has something for you. I don't know his business but he gave you this." He gave me a small package wrapped by gift with sheep decoration. If this was a heart decoration gift, everyone would think this is a valentine's gift or someone asking out method but, I'm glad that Little Man didn't plan this out.
However, my classmates beside me have started to turn their intense glare at Nezumi. They think that this sleepy target is somehow bothered about my space, which I understand they're trying to protect me from him but honestly, that jealousy is too much to see. To think that guy who doesn't aware he's being danger right now, is the one started this problem. Luckily, I can break this misunderstanding by using my pretending skills.
"Thank you. I'll open it later. I'm sure your shy Uncle wanted to give this to my Brother. Your uncle really likes to give a free lift to get me home for my brother but, I know he doesn't want stand a chance yesterday. So I guess with that gift I gave you will hopefully return the favor from him and that ride."
I always thought this method could perfectly fell for everyone except the person I haven't told anything but, I never expected Nezumi to go along with everything and nods about my stories. Maybe he doesn't care about my lies and pretends to be part of this just to get himself out of trouble.
"Uncle? So that's it. She only gave it for his uncle. What a bold way for a freak to handle that." The boys told his classmate, relieving that what I gave to Nezumi was nothing but a ride payment in return. Nothing personal but at least the misunderstanding has cleared. I finally relieved and went back to be a friendly elegant character in class.
The moment when the classmates went back to seat for their incoming class that was going to happen, I reached for that Package and opened it up. To my curiosity, I wonder what Waver gave his trouble to send me this gift. When I unwrapped that package, there was a clean envelope and two devices. I never expected one of those tiny objects was the GPS Device that I hid on Nezumi's Scarf. To think this Waver find out about my yesterday's plan and he backfires me. Darn it! I should've expect nothing less from him.
Another device that brought my curiosity is the same GPS Device but a different color. Is he trying to turn things around and used his counterattack on me? Or is he playing tricks on me again? I don't know but this Waver guy is trying to mess me again. Suddenly, I noticed this GPS suddenly glows bright red as if it was an fire alarm light that warns people. Could it be that someone already found out my location by using this device.
If this was one of Waver's trick, why would he track me with Nezumi on his side. Though, I know he wanted to protect the Rat Warrior but activating this GPS is only a matter of time before him or someone he hired could find and end me. This is bad, I got to do something!
When I saw the Teacher arriving in class, I quickly get my things and headed for him, asking politely that no classmates can hear us. "Excuse me sir, can I have a request?"
At the Abandoned Back Alley
I got out of the School and went straight to some places where no citizens will get involved. A quiet place in an abandoned building, though I prefer to walk in streets and back alleys so that no cameras could record my strengths and abilities. Once I'm standing on the empty place for two minutes, I held the GPS tracking device and they suddenly stopped glowing back. This must be the sign.
"Show yourself, I know you're waiting for me."
Once I finished that sentence, two or more figures shows up and they look like Hunters, Mercernaries or Assassins wearing black clothes. They look different from Skull Pyon but, more and more of them finally show up until they got cornered me. I counted them and they were like eight people with the same clothes. What's creepy is they don't say anything but only stares at me while wearing mask.
"Quite a few people you got there, Waver. But since you want to pick a fight, let me tell you something-" I summoned my weapon that I hide in my bag and I prepared to fight when I call my warrior name in a prideful tone. "My name is Meland Sherry. I am the War Criminal of Aries, I count and Kill!"
The assassins in black were the first to charge and used their swords to slash me down. Luckily, my big comb weapon is very sharp that can hold them longer. Some of them turn to the sides and corner me, trying to hit my back. I knew this technique because I used to get train by that Scorpion War Criminal ally and provided me some counterattacks. I smashed the ground and moved faster, aiming the head of the assassin on the left and hit their head, defeating them with one swing.
"You don't have the right to underestimate me!" I said while getting to the other assassins and knocked them out successfully.
The other assassins didn't react on my counterattacks as they proceed to attack me again. Seriously, they don't even give a damn about their comrades while I knocked them out one by one. I thought they were smart or something. All of them got corner me again and they held their swords and try to hit me at the same time. But then, I made another move that will make them lose in the end.
"Sleep!" I used my Hypnosis Ability and got the Random Hunters in range. Most of them fell to my trap and got asleep while others try to keep it up until they got dizzy and fell unconscious. To think I'm able to grow used to my ability and fight on my own. Even if I didn't spend my time on battlefields, I could still ready myself for the worse outcome.
Knowing they have hundred seconds to wake up, I extended my ability to use again and this time, I checked on their pulses and knew they're still alive, which gave me a relieve. To this, I can finally get my answers by convincing them. As I realized I'm the one doing the fight against Waver's assassins, I'm glad I received some training from my fellow companions and worked them out in the end.
I also contact my team for a pickup and a lead to get this situation under control by capturing the sleepy Assassins who tried to hunt me down. I suspected they were stronger at first but then I realized, these guys are weak. I wonder if Waver sent a bait to lure me out. It's been five minutes and nothing is happening. While waiting for my team to come, I have a feeling what I did was all part of his game. Even if I lose that yesterday's child game, next time, I won't fall for his tricks again. I clenched my fist, not trying to feel humiliated and then, expressing my hatred to Waver.
"Whether you're here or not Waver, I may have lost once but I will never lose again! You hear me?!" I took a breathe and raised my weapon to the sky, hoping my words could reach him. "As for my answer, the twelfth champion of the Zodiac War, the Rat is my Prey. If there comes a time where he receives judgement, I will be the one to end his life. If anyone dares to hurt him, I will provoke everyone and count them to kill! You hear me, Waver!" I pointed to the sky, declaring to pick a fight with a mysterious stranger starting from now.
No matter where he is or who the enemy is, I will find their weakness and stop them at all costs. Killing the rat may be my number one priority but, if I see someone take his life before mine, I will never forgive them. If it were one of my companions, I could use their weakness or maybe getting hostage to stop them from killing my prey. Even if the War criminals team got their hands on my prey, I'll do my best to convince them and find out the truth.
The battle has already been set and I need to find a way to get some answers and learn those bloody enemies soon enough.
==NO POV==
The same time when the elegant lady declares her fight, a young man heard everything as he hid on the rooftop, watching the whole fight. As much as he finds it entertaining to witness her ability, Waver admires her determination and he doesn't want to underestimate her. Seeing how she finally got the message and stop those random strangers from hunting the target down, Waver was impressed to see the true strength of a Former War Criminal of Aries.
The young man already knows who she is, especially the first time when Nezumi introduces her, he can tell she has a bloodlust intent of attempting to kill her own classmate, which he needed to know her motives. As far as he is aware of this upcoming battle between him and the War Criminals, he doesn't mind that happening since "His group" already made that decision. In truth, Waver let the Aries girl come out of the Sheep's cloth and provoke her on purpose so they could start their new fight.
A new war is going to come soon and at this point, Waver will never know the consequences of bringing chaos in this peaceful country.
"Oh brother, speaking of his enemies, that elegant girl, Meland Sherry, has a white hair, and red eyes huh?" Waver started to connect some dots as he giggled back. It reminded him about Nezumi's storytelling back when they had a meeting with the Manager at Cheese store at midnight.
That young boy told his experience of how he fought that White haired Rabbit warrior who seeks friendship by killing him. When thinking about that enemy, Waver thought that Rabbit warrior and Aries criminal warrior shared a common interest for their prey. Waver wonders why people with White Hairs and Red Eyes are obsessed with killing a pitiful Warrior Nezumi so much. Not only that, he could imagine they have a thirst of blood or upset if someone took their prey from them.
Waver felt his imaginations gone wild and he amused that creativity scenario until he remembered something about his team. He wondered if he could report to them that the Mastermind is moving now as they finally summon the Rat Clan people to try and hunt Nezumi again.
Right now, Meland deals with those strangers from the Rat clan but even if she took some survivors, Waver knows it's futile. The mastermind won't leave them behind and they will be eliminated within thirty minutes.
Watching how those Former war criminals defeated those hunters and assassins left and right made Waver glad that he easily got his job done by using them. Even though it's his job to find the one behind those messes, he knows it's pointless to spare those enemies and interrogate them. That mastermind is very cunning and good at hiding. If finding them is very challenging, then say no more, cuz using Nezumi's existence seems to make their move.
That's right. If Nezumi is still alive, the Mastermind will definitely find a way to bring him down. But, Waver doesn't let that happen. He also didn't want those War Criminals to kill the Rat Warrior as well. Leaving without a choice, Waver decided to make his own decision for "his group".
Meanwhile, Nezumi felt asleep in class again, not aware that all the boys and the other classmates got panicked that the elegant popular lady, Meland Sherry didn't return. They also got informed by the Teacher that she's skipping class for some reason.
*Character Details 4:
Name: Meland Sherry
Occupation: Pretending to be Student
Title: Former War Criminal of Aries
Ability: Hypnosis
Warrior Quote: "Counts and Kills"
Wishing Quote: I want Clothes
(My Creative Non-Cannon) Personality:
Very Prideful and wanted to keep things perfect and order. With a sense of fashion, she wanted elegant, perfection and good appearance. A Fake Gentle person doesn't care anything, even if she befriends others, she doesn't think of it as long as she used it for her goal and motives.