Disclaimer: I do not own Zatch Bell, Pokemon, School Days / Cross Days, Persona 4 and 5, Magical Girl Raising Project, and Yandere Simulator
A/N: Whoa! Where the heck I've been?! Well, I've been too focused on my other crossover AUs and lost the motivation for this crossover fanfiction. Now, I am back with a new chapter! I can't believe it took me TWO years to update this crossfic! Holy shit! Well, here is the chapter! Longest one that I typed to make up for my absence!
Chapter 2
Kaneyama woke up earlier and changed out of his sleepwear after washing his face and brushing his teeth. He changed into his school uniform and combed his hair before heading downstairs for breakfast. As Kaneyama ate his breakfast, Tetsuya and Eita eyed each other, wondering why Kaneyama needed to leave early for school, but they didn't question him as he thanked Tetsuya and Eita for breakfast and exited his house. Kaneyama smirked as he gazed at the morning sun shining down at him.
'Time to hit the gym, baby!' Kaneyama raised his fist in excitement as he started to walk. He greeted Taro's and Hanako's father, who was doing yard work. "Good morning, Mr. Yamada." Kaneyama waved at him politely.
"Good morning, Takeshi." Mr. Yamada smiled at him. "Ah, it is a little early for school, young man?" He questioned, adjusting his glasses in curiosity.
"Yes, sir! I'm heading over to a gym!"
"Ah, the gym takes me back, kiddo." Mr. Yamada smiled nostalgically, gazing at the sky, holding his gorilla Hand tool. His eyes gleamed in delight as he looked back at Kaneyama. "Working out muscles is a good thing, Takeshi! You will attract girls or guys!"
"Is that so, sir?" Kaneyama chuckled awkwardly.
"Now, run along, kiddo. Don't wanna be late for school after a workout." Mr. Yamada advised.
"Right! Send my morning regards to your children!" Kaneyama dashed as Mr. Yamada waved at him, smiling.
As Kaneyama turned to a corner, he encountered Shiromi, who smiled at him cheerfully and narrowed her eyes suspiciously. Kaneyama felt creeped out, wondering if she lived close by.
"Oh, Toshiyoshi, is it?" Kaneyama questioned.
"Oh, my." Shiromi grinned, tilting her head. "Heading to school early? Do you like to have a girlfriend you want to cuddle with before classes?"
"Of course not! Kaneyama blushed at Shiromi's guessing. "Dating isn't my thing, yo! I'm heading towards a gym! I heard there's one close by the high school."
"Oh?" Shiromi widened her eyes, smiling widely. She giggled. "Oh, you should have told me, Mr. Kaneyama. I know where the gym is." She spun around. "Follow me!"
"Do I really have to?" Kaneyama grumbled, uncomfortable with Shiromi's company.
"Yep. It is my job as the student council member to assist my fellow students." She smirked at him over her shoulder. "So, I'd behave if I was you, Mr. Kaneyama." She winked teasingly.
"Yes, madam..." Kaneyama responded awkwardly, twitching his left eyebrow and gritting his teeth. 'This girl is a weirdo!'
Twenty-eight minutes later, Shiromi and Kaneyama arrived at a fitness building and entered. Kaneyama's eyes glimmered in wonder as the fitness was packed with people. There were exercise machines, weight and bodyweight training, and cardio lessons. Shiromi told Kaneyama to tell his schoolmates not to be late for their classes and exited the building.
"Yo, it's the new dude!" Sho approached Kaneyama, grinning merrily. "Kaneyama, it is? First time here?"
"I guess," Kaneyama said, still observing.
"Cool! The owner is in the office over there," Sho pointed in the direction of the office. "He will give you paperwork and gym clothes."
"Yo, you're in our gym class, are you?" Mantaro Sashimasu peeked at Kaneyama behind Sho. "Judging by your muscles, you must have been working out! You must also be strong as Budo!"
"Ha ha ha ha!" Kaneyama placed his hands on his hips and buffed his chest as he gazed up at the ceiling. "You're damned right, yo! Oh, you must be talking about Masuyama."
"Wait, you met Budo?" Sho raised his eyebrow in curiosity.
"Yeah. Masuyama invited me to join the Marital arts club, but I declined." Kaneyama said, looking back at Sho. "I decided to join the Sports club."
"Oh, did someone just express an interest in joining my leader's club?" A gruff-toned voice spoke out. "I do wonder what you got to show."
"And you are?" Kaneyama asked, eying at an orange-haired boy with green eyes and an orange goatee.
"Itachi Zametora," Itachi introduced himself unfriendly. "The vice leader of the Sports club. My club leader would be delighted to have a new member in her club. Personally, I don't care longest they're tough and competitive."
"And yet you ignored me," Hojiro stood behind Itachi, his shoulders slumped as he looked down at the floor in disappointment while Iruka Dorufino patted his friend's back comfortingly, giving him a sad smile.
'Poor dude...' Kaneyama eyed Hojiro in pity. His eyes locked onto Itachi's heated gaze. "Well, the Sports club is the right place for me because I also love tough and competitive fools." Kaneyama cracked his knuckles, smirking at Itachi haughtily. "So, what do you say, Zametora?"
"Holy crap! Did the new dude just challenge Zametora?!" Mina Rakuyama called out in surprise.
"Of course! I heard it with my own ears, Mina!" Shima Shibahara grinned in excitement, clenching fists. "Maybe I can teach him my wrestling skills!"
"There's no need, Miss." Kaneyama overheard her and looked at her over his shoulder, grinning proudly. His eyes glinted as he thumbed-pointing at himself. "I was a wrestler in middle school, so I know all the skills, baby!"
"No way!" Shima jumped with enthusiasm. "Mina, I finally found someone with an interest in wrestling!" She interlocked her friend's hands.
"Good! I'm so happy for you, Shima!" Mina smiled delightedly.
As Kaneyama's schoolmates whisper to each other, Kaneyama has a smug expression. Itachi didn't like the attention his future rival was getting.
"Very well, Kaneyama," Itachi smirked at him exuberantly. "I accept your challenge! I'll let our leader know about your interest in joining the Sports club! We'll be waiting for you! Do not disappoint me!"
"You're on, Zametora!" Kaneyama responded, getting hyped as he struck his fist against his palm. "See ya!" Kaneyama hurried to the office while everyone returned to their training or exercising. He knocked on the office door and entered after the owner granted him permission to enter his office. "Hello, sir! I'm interested in working out in this gym!"
"I wonder why Kaneyama left home early?" Suzume asked in curiosity.
"Who knows? I hope he's staying out of trouble." Serena sighed, shaking her head.
"Actually, my father saw him earlier," Taro mentioned. "Apparently, Mr. Kaneyama was heading towards a gym."
"Oh, it sounds like him." Suzume smiled cheerfully. "Kaneyama would get bored if he was working out on his own. He's the type of boy who loves challenges! There! No problems!" Suzume winked at Taro, giving him a thumbs up.
"That's what makes me worry about him, Suzume..." Serena facepalmed in dismay. "You know how Kaneyama gets if someone wasn't there to secure his fights."
"Wait, Kaneyama used to get into fights?" Osana gaped at Serena.
"Yes," Serena breathed before she began to explain. "He was a delinquent in his late elementary school years, his middle school years, and his first year in high school. He and his delinquent friends used to get into fights with their rivals for dumb stuff. According to witnesses, Kaneyama defeated the ten rivals solo after his friends were down."
"Holy shit!" Raibaru exclaimed, her mouth opened in surprise. "Was he that strong?!"
"Obviously," Serena reconfirmed Kaneyama's brute strength. "Father had enough of Kaneyama's shenanigans, so he sent him to boot camp."
"Ouch," Hanako shuddered with fear. "Kaneyama must have been terrified, right? I heard boot camps are scary."
"Nope," Suzume said, having an awkward smile, her eyes closed. "The boot camp didn't change Kaneyama's ways."
"Instead, the boot camp strengthed his brute strength and improved his bad attitude," Serena added, her expression showing dissatisfaction.
"Dang, so much for boot camp. " Taro, Osana, Raibaru, and Hanako responded simultaneously, flabbergasted by Serena's story.
"Yo, Miss Mizuno!" Sota approached the group along with Haruto and Hayato. "Good morning."
"Oh, it's you guys." Suzume smiled. "Good morning, Mr. Komura, Mr. Akamiya, and Mr. Morita."
"Suzume, do you know these guys?" Serena asked, glancing at the boys cautiously.
"Yes, we're in the same study hall class along with Miss Najimi and Miss Yamada," Suzume explained to Serena.
"That's right! We're in King Moron's class!" Hayato added, grinning as his friends laughed.
"Who's King Moron?" Serena raised her left eyebrow.
"The study hall teacher," Haruto answered.
"That isn't nice, you know..." Serena frowned. "Hopefully, you guys aren't influencing Suzume's behavior."
"Meh, it's okay, Serena." Suzume waved her hand quickly, smiling goofily. "These boys will bring entertainment when the class gets too boring!"
"More like bringing chaos!" Osana folded her arms and pouted, turning her head away from the Rainbow boys. " I'll just have to ensure that Sora, Ryusei, and Riku are there to keep your asses in line."
"But, they're too serious. They'd ruin the fun." Haruto, Sota, and Hayato slumped their shoulders and looked down in dissatisfaction simultaneously.
"It's a good thing, morons!" Osana frowned at the boys, putting her hand on her hip, and she pointed at them with her other hand. "Study hall is for extra credit and homework! Don't ruin it for the rest of us!"
"Yes, madam..."
"The same goes for you, Suzume," Serena added, giving her a stern gaze. "Be on your good behavior."
"Yeah, yeah." Suzume pointed at a convenience store across the street, giving Serena an annoyed look, displeased with her excessiveness. "Can we go there? I'm thirsty."
"And I didn't eat breakfast. Let's go." Osana went ahead as Raibaru and Hanako tagged along with her.
"Let's go, guys." Suzume flashed a sunny smile at Haruto, Hayato, and Sota. "I'll buy you guys snacks!"
"HELL YEAH!" The boys exclaimed in joy as they followed Suzume to the store. "FREE SNACKS!"
'Suzume...' Serena thought, putting her hand on her chest. 'There you go again, being generous...'.
Taro noticed Serena's disquieted expression and put his hand on her shoulder.
"Are you okay, Miss Gabena?"
"I'm fine," Serena took a deep breath. As she and Taro walked crossed the street once the walking signal was on, Serena's anxiety was kicking in. Serena feared that people would start taking advantage of Suzume's kindness and could tell that Suzume was getting sick of her protectiveness and strictness. 'I can't help it. I just want the best for Suzume and Kaneyama.'
Once Serena and Taro arrived at the store, Osana, Raibaru, and Hanako stared at a glass display of donuts, deciding which ones to eat while Suzume, Haruto, Hayato, and Sota were gathering bags of chips, candies, and soft drinks while chatting about their study hall teacher. As Suzume's face brightened as she laughed along with the boys, Serena smiled softly.
'Maybe I am overthinking again. Suzume's having fun.'
Ayato Aishi, Roka Kitsuregawa, and Kano Sazanami stood at a bus stop, waiting for their school bus. Despite living in Vicinity, they were attending a different high school in Vicinity's sister town, Ytiniciv, which was six miles away from Vicinity, and it took ten minutes to get to Ytiniciv by car or bus. Ayano and his classmates had personal reasons why they weren't attending Akademi high school. Kano was listening to Iron Frill's Fantastic Lovers on her iPod, wearing earphones, Roka was gazing at her smartphone, texting, and Ayato was watching a news report on his smartphone.
"Hmph. It's the same shit we hear every day," Ayato scowled, closing the video on his phone, and shoved it into his pockets. "What the fuck is our law enforcement doing? My mother didn't pay her taxes for them to fuck around while innocent people are getting murdered left and right."
"It is because bribery exists," Roka told Ayato in a bitter tone. "I mean, look what happened last year at Akademi-"
"We don't talk about that, Roka," Ayato warned. "I don't want to reopen old wounds."
"I'm sorry," Roka's dark blue eyes saddened as she texted back a friend and put her phone away in her school bag.
"How is your sister?" Kano put away her earphones and flipped her long black hair. Her expression remained impassive. "I heard she is a member of that shithole's student council now."
"Shithole, huh?" Ayato snickered. "Yes, she is. Ayano's doing a little better since Saikou invited her." Ayato knew the whole story about Ayano's and Megami's so-called contract, but he knew it wasn't his place to tell. "Who did you hear that from?"
"Michika. She's friends with your sister, remember?"
"Oh, right. I keep forgetting Ayano also got a few friends in our high school."
"There's our bus ride," Roka pointed at a school bus approaching them.
As Ayato and his friends got on the school bus, they sat in the back seats and chatted about a mystery show they had seen together last night. As the bus driver drove away from the entrance of Vicinity, Ayato felt very relieved.
'We'll be back for you assholes.' Ayato's gray eyes were fierce in determination. 'And we will make your lives a living hell as you've done to ours.'
Daku Atsuzawa knew it was a bad idea to bring his lunch money today, and he hated it when his intuition was always correct. Now, he would have no choice but to eat at the cafeteria today since his lunch money had just got stolen by Toyama. His friends, Taisuke Sawanaga and Matsudaira, watched as Toyama punched Daku in the face before he grabbed him by his collar and glared at him in disgust before slamming him against the wall. It happened in an alley while insouciant people just walked passed by.
"Dude, that's enough!" Taisuke warned, giving Toyama a glare. "You don't have to go that far!"
"Just since when you became a softie, Taisuke?!" Toyama snapped back. "Maybe I should be the leader instead of you!"
"Well, too fucking bad! I'm still your leader!" Taisuke scolded. "We're in public! What if someone snitched on us to Kunahito?! We're close to expulsion, dumbass!"
"You guys don't need to worry about expulsions. geez." Musume Ronshaku emerged along with her friends, Kashiko Murasaki and Hana Daidaiyama. "Daddy will just take care of the problem," Musume smirked wickedly at Daku. "You hear that, freak? You know what would happen if you snitch on us?"
"Yes..." Daku shuddered with fear. "Nothing... didn't happen...here." He stood and wiped the blood off his nose.
"Good boy!" Hana snickered. "Now, get your nerdy ass out of here!"
Daku quickly exited the alley and continued his way to Akademi. He clutched his fists and gritted his teeth in anger. He knew he couldn't stand a chance against Musume and her gang. Their reputations were just too significant for him to expose their true natures.
'It's not fair, damn it! It's not fair! I hope they get hit by a car!'
However, Daku didn't know that someone had taken a picture of the bullying and sent it to Info-chan. It would be a good use of blackmail against Taisuke since he's the leader, and the leaders should always get the punishment.
Taro and his group arrived at Akademi. Suzume excused herself to go to the cooking club to return the application. Osana and Raibaru meet up with Koharu Moriguchi, Yuna Koda, and Yui, while Hanako meets up with her friends, Horuda Umetsu, Kumi Demura, and Hazu Kashibuchi. Sota, Haruto, and Hayato went to the outdoor cafeteria to meet with their friends.
Taro and Serena entered the school building and changed their shoes.
"So, where are you heading to?" Taro asked.
"Oh, I'm going to visit the Light Music club to observe before I decide to join the club or not," Serena answered honestly. "How about you?"
"Oh, I'm heading to the gardening club." Taro smiled.
"Ah, okay. I'll see you in class." Serena smiled back and walked away.
"Hey, Taro!" Kenko Sukoyaka greeted him with a grin. "How is your morning? Did you eat a healthy breakfast?"
"Yes, I did, Kenko." Taro chuckled. "Oh, is Amai in her club room right now. Miss Mizuno is heading there."
"Holy shit! So, Amai's getting a new club member?!" Kenko exclaimed, his eyes widening in surprise.
"Maybe."
"You know Amai would accept anyone, Taro!" Kenko patted his back cheerily. "She loves to teach cooking and baking to anyone who seeks assistance!"
"What's up, fellas?!" Rojasu Norubiru moonwalked to Taro and Kenko, earning a few laughs and giggles from nearby students.
"Nice walk, nerd!" Taisuke called out mockingly as he and his friends walked passed him.
"Screw you!" Rojasu countered back, unoffended by Taisuke's comment. "My dance is BEAUTIFUL!" He gives a peace sign gesture to Taisuke.
"PFFFT! Whatever, homo!" Taisuke reacted in humiliation and disgust and flipped him off.
"Rojasu..." Taro gazed at his friend in worry.
"Meh! His comments don't offend me, man!" Rojasu chortled. "Sawanaga and his friends know they're losers, so don't pay attention to them!"
"That's a good way to ignore negativity," Kenko said. "Well, I need to go to the cooking club. See you guys." Kenko waved as he walked away.
"See you, Kenko," Taro said and looked back at Rojasu. "I'm going to the Gardening club. How about you?"
"Same, man. I have to meet with my photography homies for a quick club meeting. See ya!" Rojasu sauntered to the stairs since the photography club was on the third floor.
Taro nodded with a smile and walked back outside to head toward the Gardening area.
Suzume took a peek inside the cooking club room and saw a brown-haired girl pulling out a tray of cookies from an oven. She spotted the leader's armband on the girl's left arm.
'So, she is the president,' Suzume turned away and leaned against the wall, hugging the application to her chest. 'Wait, I swear I saw her somewhere...' Suzume bit her bottom lip as she quivered. 'I'm so nervous now.'
"Yo."
"HUH?!" Suzume was startled by a male voice and turned her attention to a green-haired boy.
"Oh, I'm sorry," He stepped away from her, waving his hands. "I didn't mean to scare you. You must be the new club member that Taro mentioned."
"...I'm sorry...Please give this to the club leader!" Suzume yelled, feeling flustered, and handed over the application before she sprinted.
"Hey, wait!" He called out to her, but Suzume ignored him.
'This is embarrassing! Geez!' Suzume didn't watch where she was going, so she bumped onto someone. "Oh, I'm sorry!" She bowed to the person.
"It's okay," A mature feminine voice responded. "You're probably in a rush, right?"
"Yeah...," Suzume lifted her head and gazed at a cyan-haired girl with long pigtails with curls at the end. "You could say..." Suzume said timorously. She couldn't notice the girl looked similar to a classmate from yesterday. "...You looked like him..."
The girl just blinked at Suzume. Then, she giggled.
"Oh, you must have met my younger twin brother, Sora! I'm Saki Mizukawa!"
"Oh, I'm...Suzume...Mizuno." Suzume introduced herself, her shoulder slumped as she looked down. "...I'm afraid I may have offended your brother...yesterday. "
"Oh, Sora? Don't worry about him," Saki responded cheerfully. "He's just shy around new faces." She grinned, waving her hand. "Once you get to know him, you'll know he isn't a bad person."
"Really?" Suzume breathed, straightening her posture. "Your brother and I are classmates in Mr. Morooka's study hall."
"Oh! I was wondering where you met him." Saki said. "So, you're in King Moron's class."
"Why does everyone keep referring to Mr. Morooka as King Moron?" Suzume tilted her head in question, blinking at Saki.
"It's an inside joke," Saki chuckled. "Mr. Morooka doesn't mind it through. So, where are you heading?"
"To the rooftop. I'm supposed to meet a few classmates up there."
"Oh! I'm about to head up there to meet friends of mine. Maybe I could introduce you to Kokona and Mei if you want."
"Sure." Suzume smiled timidly. "I'd like to meet your friends."
"Cool! Let's go!" Saki smiled, and the girls ascended the stairs.
Kaneyama entered the school gymnasium alongside Shiromi after the white-haired eccentric girl showed him the way after crossing paths with her when he arrived at school. The Sports club members arrived five seconds later, wearing white shirts and blue shorts.
"Good luck~" Shiromi grinned at Kaneyama and exited the gymnasium.
"Thanks..." Kaneyama reacted, still creeped out by her strange behavior.
"Hey, guys!" A girl with tan skin and short blond hair greeted everyone. She was wearing a white shirt and blue shorts. She turned her attention to Kaneyama. "Hello, there! Interested in joining the Sports club? I'm Asuka Rutou, the club's president."
"Oh, I'm Takeshi Kaneyama!" Kaneyama stood straight as he bowed his head to her. "Yes, madam! I'd love to join the club to improve my physical activities!"
"Now, now," Asuka laughed heartily. "There's no need to bow to me, Mr. Kaneyama."
"Asu, you should allow Kaneyama to join us!" Mantaro suggested. "He challenged Itachi!"
"Oh?" Asuka raised an eyebrow, glancing at Kaneyama, then at Itachi. "That's interesting."
"Yes, Asu." Itachi referred to Asuka by a nickname, smirking at her. "And obviously, I've accepted his challenge."
"Well, the challenge would have to wait until after school."
"Of course, Asu."
"Miss Rutou," Kaneyama handed over the application to Asuka. "Here's the permission slip with my father's signature."
"Oh, thank you." Asuka received the paper and smiled at him cheerily. "And you can call me by my given name, Mr. Kaneyama. I have no problem with that."
"What's up?" Hojiro noticed Unagi Denkashiza's stare at something.
"Those delinquents are looking at Kaneyama," Unagi whispered.
Hojiro darted his eyes at Umeji Kizuguchi and his gang at the door, observing Kaneyama with interest. Umeji noticed and turned around, leaving the gym with his friends.
"That was weird," Hojiro said, looking back at Unagi.
"Well, it isn't good news for sure," Unagi responded cautiously. "I think Kizuguchi is trying to recruit Kaneyama."
"Would Shidesu even allow him to recruit new people?"
"I wouldn't be surprised, Hojiro. He is her right-hand man, after all."
"All right, everyone!" Asuka distracted Hojiro and Unagi from their conversation. "We're doing warm-ups! That's all we have the time for!"
"Cool. Since I don't have the outfit. I will just stand by and observe! Ha ha ha!" Kaneyama laughed, putting his hands on his hips. "I'll go buy one during lunchtime!" He said excitedly.
"I can show you to a clothing shop, Kaneyama." Mantaro offered. "We can eat lunch together off campus. Well, if you don't mind me bringing Budo with me."
"Masuyama, huh? Sure!" Kaneyama accepted.
Serena entered the Light Music club room and was impressed by the club's design. Hot pink and black were a lovely combination, and Serena's eyes landed on a giant screen displaying animations behind instruments on a stage.
"Yo."
"Oh, hi." Serena greeted her classmate, Miyuji Shibakoya. "Yesterday, Miyuji was the first classmate to welcome Serena into her math class, and Serena's first expression of Miyuji was that she loved the goth style, judging by Miyuji's makeup and hairdo. "I have no idea that you're a member of the Light music club, Miss Shibakoya."
"Oh, Miss Homura!" Miyuji smiled. "Yep! I'm this club's president!" She gives Serena two peace signs. "So, you're interested in joining the Strawberry thieves? We got one spot left, and we needed a good guitarist."
"Wait, so the club is actually a band?" Serena gaped in surprise.
"Yep! We'll be joining a spring tournament next year, so we've been practicing hard!"
Serena gazed at Miyuji. She could feel the confidence and positive energy from her. Serena wondered how she would feel if she joined a band and performed in front of thousands of people in the upcoming tournament. Would she screw up the performance due to anxiety or succeed as a guitarist?
"Ah, interesting," Serena said, smiling a little. "Well, it is all right if I observed the club activities before I decided to join or not?"
"Of course!" Miyuji agreed with her request. "There's no rush, Miss Homura." She grinned at her, giving her a thumbs up.
"Thank you," Serena bowed her head politely. "I'll see you at math."
After the morning classes, it was break time, and Suzume wandered around the school building outside. Earlier, she embarrassed herself when she had trouble reading a paragraph in front of the class and swore someone giggled at her darkly. Suzume's cheeks were still burning from the embarrassment. Suzume sighed. Maybe she should have gone to the rooftop to meet with her classmates.
"Hey, new girl!" Sho's voice called out behind her.
Suzume paused and turned her head over her shoulder. She saw Sho and the green-haired boy she had seen earlier approaching her.
'New girl, huh? Mr. Kunikida will be referring to me by New girl for a while. I just know it.' Suzume turned around and clasped her hands together in front. "Hello, Mr. Kunikida." She greeted and darted her eyes at the other boy. "Oh, it's you..."
"Oh, right! I forgot to introduce myself earlier. The name's Kenko Sukoyaka." He smiled kindly at her. "Oh, I give the application paper to Amai. She wants to meet you in person after school, so don't run away." He chuckled.
"I'm sorry about that..." Suzume bowed her head in shame.
"It's okay. Amai understood when I told you that you got nervous."
"The new girl also got flustered when Sora gave her the cold shoulder in study hall yesterday," Sho added. "Where the hell were you?"
"Dude, I went home early. I didn't want to study in that shithole."
"Huh?" Suzume had a questioning gaze as she tilted her head. "So, you're also in Mr. Morooka's class with us?"
"Yeah. Since I'm a senior, I get to ditch the last-period class all I want." Kenko laughed. "Believe me. This school is foolish because of the principal's rules, guidelines, and privileges."
"Damn right." Sho grinned in amusement.
"Oh, I see!" Suzume gulped. "So, that explains the study hall class."
"Oh, trust me, Miss Mizuno." Sho gazed at her, still amused. "Funny shit is extreme on Fridays."
"Ehhh?" Suzume's face turned pale, and her eyes widened in tension.
"Don't worry! No humans were harmed during the extreme!" Sho showed his palm, smiling at her as his eyes were closed.
"Dude, come on. That's just an exaggeration." Kenko laughed. "Don't worry, Miss Mizuno. We don't go that crazy."
"Oh, is that so?" Suzume giggled awkwardly. "That's a relief to know."
"Yo!" Hayato approached them alongside Sota and Haruto. "We're heading to the tea house in the second Japanese garden. Coming?"
"We were heading there, dude," Sho said, giving Hayato a bro's fist. "Let me guess. Y'all going to chat about Magical Girl Pretty Miyuki."
"You know us too well!" Sota smirked proudly. "Let's go before break's over."
Suzume agreed to check out this tea house as they headed toward the Japanese garden.
Serena was in the library, searching for a book about bands and instruments. Some students studied or read books at the tables, while a few fooled around and earned a hush from the school librarian.
"Hey, Miss Homura," Taro greeted, emerging from the second bookshelf. "I have no idea that you liked books."
"I do," Serena picked out a book about a famous band. "Reading is good for us. We learned about different cultures, nature, and other things from the books. We can also explore the novelists' different worlds."
"Correct," Kumi emerged, holding a book while Horuda nodded in agreement. "The foolish humans are neglecting their knowledge."
"That's true," Serena said, smiling at Kumi and Horuda. "Serena Homura." She introduced herself.
"Kumi Demura."
"Horuda Umetsu."
"Yes, these girls are my friends and reading buddies," Taro added. "We would get together to read the books at our houses."
"We also have discussions about the books," Kumi added.
"Yes," Horuda clasped her hands, downcasting her eyes shyly.
"That sounds fun," Serena said, interested in the reading group. "I'm surprised there isn't a book club."
"Believe us," Kumi said. "We tried to create one."
"But our club application was declined," Taro added, frowning. "The library was the reason why."
"What a dumb reason," Serena sighed. "Whoever rejected the application doesn't value knowledge and privacy."
"I know, right?" Horuda has spoken in her soft tone nervously. "Yet, there's a club for the occult and gaming."
"The hell?" Serena raised an eyebrow bewilderedly. "There's an occult club? That's crazy. Just what is up with this school's standards?"
"Well, we'd rather tell you in private." Taro glanced around cautiously. "The library isn't a safe place for," He breathed. "...gossip."
"True," Serena responded as she gathered a few books and carried them to the librarian to check out while Taro, Horuda, and Kumi followed her.
Kaneyama hung out with his classmates from math, Ryuji, Unagi, and Mana Tanahashi, as they strolled around the school building. They were eating snacks and drinking soft drinks while Ryuji told them about his drawing of King Moron yesterday.
"The fuck, Ryuji?!" Mana burst out in laughter. "That's nasty!"
"What did ya draw?" Kaneyama was curious about Ryuji's drawing.
"Oh, it's just about King Moron jacking off." Ryuji grinned, satisfied with his parody work.
"Dude, you're crazy." Unagi was also laughing. "Seriously, you could have gotten expelled for that shit, man."
"King Moron ends up burning the drawing," Ryuji admitted. "And given me a warning."
"Holy shit, ya." Kaneyama gaped at him in disbelief. "So, he just let you off the hook without informing the principal?"
"Rumor has it that the principal is getting paid for tolerating shit," Mana said mischievously. "From the higher-ups who created this school."
"Kaneyama, it is?" Umeji's voice asked.
Everyone froze as Umeji and his friends approached them. Ryuji sighed, Mana frowned, and Unagi scowled. Kaneyama stared at the blond-haired boys, observing the scars on their faces. Each boy had a weapon bag with each different weapon. A memory of his delinquent days flashed in his mind.
"Yes, I'm him." Kaneyama has spoken toughly. "What do you need?"
"Ignored them, Kaneyama," Unagi glanced a glare at Umeji. "They're just here for trouble."
"Relax, we're just here to chat about your brute strength from yesterday," Umeji said. "We're well pleased." He clapped his hands. "Thanks for standing up to those men who attempted to force themselves on that young girl."
Ryuji, Mana, and Unagi gasped in terror and slowly looked at Kaneyama.
"So, you must have seen me in the alley yesterday," Kaneyama cracked his knuckles and smirked before his expression turned sour. "I was just doing my job as a decent person. Those assholes deserved my beating for targeting young girls for their goddamn sex drives. Girls or women don't deserve getting hurt just because egotistic fools couldn't keep it in their pants or control their dominance."
"Just how many men did you fight, man?!" Ryuji exclaimed in shock.
"Six fuckers," Kaneyama admitted in disgust. "Rage blinded me as I beat the shit outta them."
The bell rang. Break time was over, and everyone was quiet for a few seconds until Umeji spoke again.
"We'll talk later. Let's say our leader expressed an interest in you."
"No fucking way," Unagi responded in disbelief, his expression turned pale.
"Not interested," Kaneyama rejected Umeji's claim. "I'm no longer a delinquent." He clenched his fists. "I have some advice for you fools. Stop the delinquency. It's not worth it."
"Hmph, you don't know a damn right about us," Umeji growled in sudden anger. "This isn't over yet, Kaneyama." With that, Umeji turned around and stomped in the opposite path as his friends followed him.
"We'll be late for our classes if we don't move now," Mana said quietly.
"Yeah," Ryuji agreed.
"Let's go," Unagi advised. "Also, we shouldn't report the delinquents. I'm sure they have their reasons why they're delinquents. Also, they threatened you, Kaneyama. That should be enough to know we shouldn't fuck with them."
"I was thinking about the same," Kaneyama gazed at his classmates. "Whatever happened here stayed between us." He said in a grim tone.
Psychology was Suzume's fourth-period class, and Suzume couldn't understand a word from her teacher's lectures. Her teacher assigned her a group assignment with Raibaru and Budo. Suzume had heard about Budo. He was the leader of the Marital Arts club, and he was popular with his peers. Budo greeted her with a smile.
"You're one of the new students, are you? The name's Budo Masuyama."
"My name is Suzume Mizuno," Suzume flashed a shy smile at him. "It's nice to meet you, Mr. Masuyama."
"Just call me Budo, Miss Mizuno." Budo chuckled. "I'm the president of the Marital Arts club? Interested in joining or a least a spar?"
"Budo, please." Raibaru giggled. "If Miss Mizuno wanted someone to teach her self-defense, she should be asking me."
"Someone's not nice today," Budo grinned, amused with Raibaru's pride.
"Just saying," Raibaru smirked at him, proud of her self-defense skills.
"I'll keep your offers in mind," Suzume said, opening her psychology book and starting to read or a least try to understand psychology in text.
After the fourth-period classes ended, it was lunchtime, and Serena headed toward her lockers, carrying her books and ignoring the chatter from other students. After Serena put away her books into her locker, she heard a text message alert on her smartphone and checked it. The text message was from Kaneyama and Suzume about they'd be spending their lunchtime with their classmates. Serena smiled softly and replied to the text messages.
"Miss Homura!" Midori Moriyama approached her friendly alongside her friends, Tokuko Kitagawa, Dora Tamamoto, and Eiko Nunomaki. "Do you want to eat lunch with us?" She tilted her head and clapped her hands, and winked at Serena.
"Ah, sure," Serena put her smartphone in her blazer pocket. She was quiet while the girls headed towards the cafeteria building outside. Tokuko and Dora were chatting about their upcoming performances while Midori and Eiko spoke about Magical Girl Pretty Miyuki. "..." Serena opened her mouth, but no words excaped her lips.
"So, what is your favorite food, Miss Homura?" Midori asked curiously.
"Oh," Serena didn't have an answer. "Well..."
"Oh! I guess you're the type that eats anything!" Midori was texting on her smartphone cheerfully. "I'm like that too!"
"Is that so?" Serena smiled awkwardly, didn't know what's else to say.
The girls entered the cafeteria building and waited in line. Serena wondered what her siblings were doing as she grabbed a food tray of a cheeseburger with french fries, salad, celery, and carrots with ranch and a can of soda and walked to an empty table, and sat down. She began to eat her lunch while Midori and the other girls chatted and asked Serena questions, and Serena answered politely.
Suzume noticed there were still students chatting in the corridor as she walked through, carrying her lunchbox. She wondered if the students had already eaten their lunches. Suzume also learned Kaneyama had gone off campus to eat lunch with his new clubmates, and she hoped her older brother stayed out of trouble. She was supposed to meet Hanako and her group and Saki and Kokona at the rooftop, and she was running a little late.
"Hey!"
A sweet-toned voice called out to her. Suzume paused and turned around to face a tan-skinned girl with dyed blond hair with streaks, purple eyes, and a light purple sweater wrapped around her waist. The male students gazed at herlecherously while the girls whispered to each other, their eyes full of admiration. Suzume blinked at the girl as her eyes glimmered. Compared to the pretty girl, Suzume throught herself as a plained cardboard.
"So, you're the new girl my friend talked about," She smiled at Suzume kindly. "The name's Kashiko Murasaki. What's yours?"
"Oh, Suzume Mizuno."
"Oh, Miss Mizuno. Do you have plans for lunch?" Kashiko asked in curiosity.
"Yes. I'm supposed to meet up with my classmates on the rooftop."
"Oh, I see. That's too bad." Kashiko looked at her nails, disappointed. Then, she heard a text message alert from her smartphone. "Oh, pardon me." She took out her smartphone and looked at the text message. "Oh, shit. My girls need me." She replied and put her smartphone back in her blazer pocket. "Well, it's nice to meet you, Miss Mizuno. I'll see you around." Kashiko flashed a bright smile and walked away, heading towards the front doors.
"Yo, girl!" Toyama called out to her, approaching her. "Ya just got acquainted with one of the popular girls at Akademi!"
"And you are?" Suzume raised an eyebrow.
"Oh, I'm Toyama," He grinned at her. "And these losers behind me are Taisuke and Matsudaira."
"Hey, uncool!" Taisuke frowned. Then, he smiled at Suzume. "Don't mind him."
"Oh, you're in the same study hall class as me..." Suzume recalled seeing Taisuke's amused expression when Ryuji and his classmates made fun of King Moron yesterday. "I need to go now." Suzume bowed her head politely and hurried to the stairs.
Kaneyama, Mantaro, and Budo went to a clothing shop after they ate their lunches at a diner. Kaneyama brought his white T-shirt, blue shorts, and running shoes and paid the cashier. He walked out with Mantaro and Budo, carrying a white shopping bag, and gazed at the clear sky as the sun shined. The boys headed back to Akademi as they chatted about the health benefits of foods and drinks.
"Yo, Kaneyama. We meet again." Umeji spoke as he and his friends emerged from an alley.
"I see you fellas had just got into a fistfight," Budo scowled, noticing a couple of wounded boys on the ground in the alley. "However, what you guys do isn't my business."
"Oh, you know the deal, Masuyama." Umeji glared at Budo while he got close to his face. "Snitch on us, and we'll do the same to you guys."
"Hey!" Mantaro spat angrily. "Stay away from Budo! You know he doesn't pick fights, unlike you losers."
"What was that, ya punk?!" Umeji countered back, stomping towards him.
"YO!" Kaneyama stepped in front of Mantaro protectingly and crossed his arms. "You wanted me to join your group, so how about you and I settle it right here and now?" Kaneyama smirked menacingly.
"Mr. Kaneyama!" Budo scolded. "You must not stoop to their level!"
"Yeah, Kaneyama! Think about how Asu would feel if you gotta into a fight with the delinquents..." Mantaro pleaded. "They're not worth it. I can take care of myself. There's no need for you to protect me."
"This is so humorous, Umeji!" Hayanari Tsumeato burst out in laughter. "The little shrimp thinks he knows us! The nerve!"
"How about we just fucked all of 'em' up?" Gaku Hikitsuri pulled out his crowbar from his weapon box.
"Good idea, man!" Hokuto Furukizu pulled out his boken and smirked. "Let's fucking go!"
"ENOUGH!" Umeji shouted at his friends angrily.
Everyone froze. Kaneyama sighed. Part of him wanted to give in to his fighting side and knock the hell out of Umeji and his gang, but he knew that would just bring trouble to himself and his family. Kaneyama stared into Umeji's golden eyes in a threatening matter while Umeji glared back at him in determination. There was silence between the two for a few seconds.
"Meh," Umeji shrugged as he sneered. "This is just a waste of time. I like your way, Kaneyama. You're holding back for the sakes of others." He glanced at Budo and Mantaro, annoyed with their presence. "I do wonder how strong you really are. Well, that's the story for another day, I suppose. Let's go, guys."
Umeji's friends glanced at each other and groaned in disappointment as they put away their weapons. As the blond-haired delinquents walked passed Budo, Kaneyama, and Mantaro, the Martial arts club president spoke to Umeji and crossed his arms sternly.
"Nothing didn't happen here," Budo said, eying at Umeji over his shoulder. "Just to let you know, Miss Kunahito will not know about this."
"I see you still have your plastic compassion, Masuyama," Umeji responded coldly, didn't bother to look back.
Budo gasped, his eyes widened in hurt as Umeji and his friends walked away. Mantaro gazed at his role model sadly while Kaneyama was confused with the exchange between Budo and Umeji. He wondered if Budo and Umeji have a history together, but he decided not to ask as he knew it wasn't his place to inquire into someone's past.
"Let's go back to campus," Budo said quietly as Kaneyama and Mantaro nodded.
Sora was in a foul mood. Earlier, he had gotten into a nasty argument with his father on a phone call and told him not to bother to come home. He didn't want to attend his afternoon classes, but he'd have to deal with his stepmother at home if he left school early, so he sighed and attended his math class. As he sat by the window, Natsumi Koizumi approached him, and he turned his eyes away from Natsumi, annoyed. He rested his chin on his hand as he glowered at the window.
"Hey, Sora! Do you think you can tutor me after school?" She asked sweetly.
"Go ask someone else. I'm busy." He responded to her rudely and didn't want to socialize with her.
"But we don't have anyone else to tutor us," Kumi Mori clapped her hands together, smiling at him. "We're so going to fail our math classes if you don't help us!"
"I don't care," Sora muttered.
"Hey," Serena Homura's voice had gotten Sora's attention. He eyed her as Serena stood in front of Kumi and Natsumi, her arms folded. She has a frown expression. "You're bothering him. Please leave him alone."
"Geez, whatever, new girl." Natsumi sneered as she and Kumi returned to the table.
"Are you all right, ?" Serena asked, looking at him in concern.
"Oh...yes. Thanks..." Sora nodded, didn't know what else to say.
"It's no problem." Serena nodded and returned to her table with Sakyu Basu and Gita Yamahito.
Umeji and Ryusei entered the math classroom and sat at the same three-person table as Sora. Umeji snickered while Ryusei and Sora stared at him in question as the tardy bell rang.
"I bet you got into a fight again..." Ryusei mumbled in disapproval, rubbing his forehead with his fingers.
"Nerd, you know what I do," Umeji smirked. "And woo! I'm early for once."
As the math teacher entered the classroom and began his roll call, Sora remained quiet, thinking about what to do later. Maybe he'd visited Umeji's home or something to avoid going home early.
'I'm too tired for bullshit.' He thought as he raised his hand at his math teacher. "Here," He responded to the roll call indifferently.
Suzume panted as she sweated, having her hands on her knees. She and her classmates finished their two laps on the track field.
"Good work, everyone!" Kyoshi blew her whistle, impressed with her student's hard work. "Now, it's time to play Volleyball. The ones who don't want to play will take walks around the track field." She entered the gymnasium as some students followed her.
"I would rather do walks," Suzume sighed. "I suck at volleyball."
"Same," Hanako giggled. "We can talk about cute boys!"
"Ha ha ha." Suzume giggled back awkwardly. "Don't bother to ask me. No one hasn't caught my eye yet." She didn't mention Kiyomaro Takamine, the boy she had a crush on back in her middle school days in her old hometown. "So don't mind me. Just pretend I'm not here. Ha ha ha."
"Here," Mana handed Suzume a water bottle, smiling at her.
"Thanks," Suzume got the water bottle and opened it. She gulped half of the water bottle. "Good stuff!" She called out cheerfully, holding her water bottle proudly.
Hanako and Mana clapped their hands happily, and the girls strolled around the track field. Soon, Horuda and Minami joined them.
"I think Kenko Sukoyaka is cute." Hanako blushed as she cupped her cheeks with her hands.
"Too bad. Sukoyaka is dating Yuna." Mana giggled.
"And you're dating Guramu." Minami added, smiling in amusement.
"Ha ha ha," Mana chuckled, embarrassed by Minami's smile.
"Do you like someone, Miss Umetsu?" Suzume asked Horuda in curiosity.
"No," Horuda shook her head timidly. "No boy or girl would not like me in that way."
"Oh, don't say that," Suzume encouraged her. "There is someone out there for you. You'll find your happiness one day." Suzume smiled at Horuda kindly. "So, believe in yourself."
Horuda's eyes glimmered in sudden hope as Suzume pat her shoulder comfortingly. Suzume gazed at the sky and wondered how her siblings were doing in their classes.
Kaneyama was on a front lat pulldown machine, working out. His classmates were watching him in a daze. Kaneyama was shirtless, and the boys gaped at his muscular chest and arms. Once Kaneyama finished, he stood and put a towel around his neck. He noticed his classmates' looks, and he laughed.
"My muscles are the same as yours, fools." He grinned and headed towards the showers. He saw Budo there. "Hey, Masuyama."
"Hey, Mr. Kaneyama." Budo greeted with a smile before putting on his dress shirt. "Make sure you aren't late for your next class."
"I know. Thanks for the reminder." Kaneyama stood in front of his locker, thinking about lunchtime. He was still concerned about Budo and Umeji. "So, there's something I need to ask."
"Hmm?" Budo fixed his red tie as he eyed Kaneyama.
"Do you and Kizuguchi have a history together?"
"..." Budo put his black blazer on and bottomed before he placed his hand on his locket. He has a sad expression. "...Yes. Kizuguchi and I used to be friends and..." Budo stayed quiet for a few seconds. Then, he took a deep breath before he spoke again. "And it's my fault that we're no longer friends..."
Kaneyama widened his eyes in surprise. It must have been painful for Budo.
"I see. I'm sorry to hear." Kaneyama told Budo in a sympathized tone. "I won't ask anymore. It isn't my business anyway."
"I'm glad you asked, Mr. Kaneyama." Budo smiled at him gratefully. "Thank you."
"It's no problem," Kaneyama nodded with a smile. "It is a secret between us, yo. Well, see ya." He entered the showers.
"A secret, huh?" Budo smiled sadly, his eyes narrowed in guilt as he gazed at his hand.
It was finally the last-period class. Suzume hurried to her lockers to take out her math book, a notebook, and a cute zipper pencil case. Yuna stood next to Suzume, also gathering things from her locker.
"Hey, Yuna." Kenko greeted her with a smile. He looked at Suzume and grinned at her. "What's up, new girl?"
"Hey, she got a name, you know." Yuna pouted at her boyfriend and playfully tapped his shoulder. "Also, you better take care of her at the cooking club, Kenko."
"Of course, babe." Kenko smiled charmingly. "Miss Mizuno and I will get along great!"
Suzume giggled. There was lovely to see a cute couple interact. Suzume closed her locker door and held her math book and notebook in her arms as Sho came by and tapped her shoulder.
"Hey, new girl. Let's go before we're late again."
"Geez, you too, Kunikida?" Yuna sighed, shaking her head in disapproval. "She's Miss Mizuno, not a new girl."
"I don't mind, Miss Koda." Suzume smiled as her eyes sparkled.
"Hey, get moving. You're all going to be late." Ryusei emerged alongside Sora.
"Yeah, yeah, Aosaka." Kenko rolled his eyes, annoyed. "Let's go, babe." Kenko grabbed Yuna's hand once she gathered her things and headed toward her class.
"Oh, hi, Mr. Mizukawa," Suzume walked to Sora. "I've spoken-"
Sora stepped away from her, his hand clasped onto his school bag strap around his shoulder. Her eyes gazed at her cautiously, startled by her sudden approach.
"Oh," Suzume noticed and bowed her head. "I'm sorry. I'll..see you in class." She spun around and dashed towards the stairs.
"Holy shit," Sho gaped. "What just happened? Anyway, see you, Disappointed Muffins and Minty!" Sho grinned at the boys teasingly before running off.
"Hey! You and your childish names for us! Geez!" Ryusei frowned. He breathed and adjusted his glasses, noticing Sora's pale expression. "What's wrong?" He gazed at his best friend in concern.
"Nothing..." Sora said quietly, his eyes turned away nervously.
"For once, you little shits are QUIET," Morooka said once he was done with his roll calling and sat at his desk. "Use this time to catch up with your classwork or do your homework! If you need help, ask me or any of your peers here! Got it?!"
"Yes, Mr. Morooka." Everyone in Suzume's study hall class obeyed simultaneously.
Suzume gawked at her math problems. She always hated math and had forgotten how to solve math problems, and now Kiyomaro wasn't around to help her. She slumped her shoulders as she rested her head on her desk. Osana and Hanako focused on their homework, Kenko, Boru Sadatoshi, and Himari Fujita discussed a class project, Ryuji was working alone, trying to focus, and the rest of Suzume's classmates were quiet and focused.
'So, this class isn't always crazy,' Suzume sighed in relief once she lifted her head. 'All right. I'm going to do my best!' She bit her bottom lip and fisted her hands determinedly.
Moments later, Suzume still hadn't figured out her math problems, so she stood and approached King Moron's desk slowly.
"Sir, I need help with my math," She asked nervously, downcasting her eyes to the ground.
"Hmm?" Morooka observed his students for a second. "Mizukawa!"
"Yes?" Sora lifted his head from his homework.
"Help the poor new girl. I'm busy."
"Yeah, yeah." Ryuji yawned in boredom, leaning against his chair. "Busy with watching porn."
Everyone burst out in laughter while Morooka's face turned completely pink. Osana, Hanako, Sora, Ryusei, Riku, and the other students who actually wanted to study, groaned.
"God, you're a fucking moron," Sora facepalmed, hissing at Ryuji.
"HOW DARE YOU, SAKAMOTO?!" Morooka burst out in disgust. "Off to the counselor's office!"
"Bye, King Moron!" Ryuji stood up and kicked his chair, and it fell over. He grinned as he exited the classroom.
"You too!" Morooka pointed at Hayato, Sota, and Haruto, who gave him teasing grins and looks. "And YOU!" He exclaimed at Sho, who was also laughing.
"Yes, sir. Bye, sir." Sho gathered his things and left the classroom alongside Haruto, Hayato, and Sota.
'...' Suzume stood there, her mouth opened as her expression was pale. 'What the heck just happened?' She throught, her left eyebrow twitching. 'I can't focus in this class...'
"Suzume," Hanako called to her. "Sora's waiting for you at the table."
"Oh, right! Sorry!" Suzume ignored Sora staring at her glacially, and she was extremely nervous. Why did Morooka have to ask Sora to help her? Once she gathered her math book, notebook, and zipper case from her desk, she shambled to the table and sat next to Sora. "..." She has her hands on her lap, her eyes turned away. She breathed. "I'm sorry about earlier. It was rude of me..."
"What is the math problem?" Sora asked, ignoring Suzume's apology.
"Oh, is this one..." Suzume opened her math page and turned to the page of the math problems she was supposed to do for her homework tonight. 'He just ignored my apology. Does he really hate me?'
Riku waved his hand, giving Suzume an awkward smile. Maybe he tried to tell her not to mind his friend, but he refocused on his history homework when Sora glared at him.
"It's no wonder why you're having problems. You're taking pre-algebra."
Suzume shuddered with embarrassment when Sora commented on her math homework. She had forgotten that there were differences between algebra and math. Ryusei left the table to help Hanako with her math problems while Osana was already receiving help on her psychology homework from Beruma.
"Oh, I see. You must be pretty smart if you can tell the differences." Suzume said, not looking at Sora.
"It doesn't take a genius to know," Sora told Suzume unkindly.
"Oh."
That's all Suzume said to her classmate. Now, she knew he wasn't the fooling-around type. He took his studying seriously, and Suzume knew firsthand that he wasn't planning to befriend her. He was just too cold towards her, and Suzume had no idea why. She refocused on her homework, following Sora's guidance.
Meanwhile, at Ytiniciv High school, Ayato socialized with his classmates, Kioka and Akako. Today was a self-study period since their math teacher was absent, but Ayato's classmates used the time to fool around.
"Hey, Ayato. We're getting a milkshake after school. Do you want to come?" Kioka asked.
"Sorry," Ayato declined. "I have to be home early. I need to keep an eye on the house because my mother will be away for a few hours."
"Aww, that's too bad." Akako sighed, dissatisfied.
"Only if it was Friday..." Kioka groaned as her shoulders slumped. "We'd be crashing at your place, drinking milkshakes, and watching movies."
"Not a bad idea," Ayato smiled at his classmate in approval. "Maybe we do that this Friday. My mother and sister wouldn't mind having you girls over."
"Really?!" Kioka's face brightened with excitement. Let's invite Michika, Asahiko, and Morihei! I'm sure they'd also love to come!"
"Yes!" Ahako jumped enthusiastically. "Let's replace the milkshake with pizza!"
Ayato nodded in agreement and looked out at the open window. He smiled as now he had something to look forward to this weekend.
After school, Suzume followed Kenko to the cooking club. She was super nervous about introducing herself to her new club members. Once they entered the clubroom, Suzume found the club members chatting about food and the chatting stopped when they noticed her.
"Hey, Amai. I brought her." Kenko grinned.
"Oh, you must be the new club member," Amai smiled brightly at Suzume. "I'm Amai Odayaka, the cooking club president. What is your name?"
"I'm...Suzume Mizuno..."
"And I'm Seiyo Akanishi!" A blond-haired male club member winked at Suzume. "I'm a specialist in western food!"
"And I'm Ajia Ashitomi," A black-haired female club member with a light blue kerchief smiled at Suzume. "I'm a specialist in Japanese food." She glanced a glare at Seiyu, who pouted his lips and whistled.
"And you already know me!" Kenko grinned. "I'm a specialist in healthy food!"
"And I'm Shoku Tsuburaya," A brown-haired male club member greeted her with a kind smile. "And I'm cooking club vice president."
"It's nice to meet you all!" Suzume bowed her head. "Please take care of me! I'll make sure I'll follow your guidance!"
Everyone smiled at her and applauded Suzume for her positive reaction to their introductions. When Amai said they'd prepared something delicious today, Suzume's eyes gleamed in enthusiasm.
End of Chapter 2
A/N: A lot had happened in Yandere Simulator canon since my last update of this fanfic. However, I will still use my fan names/surnames for certain characters like Akako is Witness-chan, Kioka is Victim-chan, Michika is Red Flower, Asahiko is Study Kun A and Morihei is Study Kun B and I'm using real names of some canon YanSim characters like Mana is Maka and Boru is Borupen and so on.