Akira Blake's Story

Akira found herself ready for school about fifteen minutes earlier than required, so she decided to go out into her yard a shoot a few hoops before she made her way to school. She let out a deep breath, dribbling the ball a few times to get a good feel of it. To those around her, she was the Blake boy, the grandson of Miyuu-san. Her grandmother was an old woman who constantly complained about her health and put all of the workload on her 'grandson'. She was aware that Akira was a girl, but respected the wishes of her granddaughter for now. She didn't care so long as Akira married a wealthy man that could financially support them both in the end. Mrs. Miyuu was not a fan of work and used her age and health to her advantage, often exaggerating to make Akira feel guilty and responsible for her. Old bat woke me up way too early.. Akira thought to herself in an irritated manner and she took the shot, making it straight in the hoop and she ran over to retrieve the ball.

I have time for a few more.. She kept shooting, not even realizing that she was losing track of time. She got so into her shots that by the time she looked back at her phone, she was then running three minutes late. Crap! I played for sixteen minutes already? Guess I've got to run to catch the train now! She thought to herself with a sigh and took off without a second thought or goodbye. She made a beeline down the street, sprinting the entire way to the train station. She was catching her breath and gave her ticket to the man behind the booth, and zoomed off again when he returned it to her and cleared her to go through. She saw her train, the bell ringing, signaling for all of the last passengers to get on board and she went full force at the train, the doors shutting directly behind her without even a second to spare. W-wow... I need to set an alarm next time so I don't run late.. She thought to herself. She was panting rather hard, but couldn't help laughing. She got a few strange looks, a light blush forming on her cheeks. She forgot, Japan was a little strict compared to Britain.. She was expected to be a lot quieter and dignified... two things that definitely didn't define Akira.

"Kid, shut up. I'm trying to read the paper. Who would raise such a loud and obnoxious boy?" One man snapped at her. Shooting a harsh glare in her direction.

Akira's eyes fell to the floor of the train for a moment and she fell silent for a bit. She was a bit angry that he mentioned the terms of how she was 'raised', but she shot him a kind smile when she lifted her head, "My parents died a long time ago. Gomenasai. I won't do it again." She then bowed a bit, rubbing the back of her neck as she stood up straight. Sure, she wasn't exactly 'proper' about it, but she wasn't born and raised Japanese either. She was half Japanese, but she spent most of her life surrounded by the European half of her culture. She spent the rest of the train ride shifting back and forth from the heels to the toes of her sneakers in a rather bored fashion.

When the train stopped, Akira darted out, but since she was close to the door she didn't bump into anyone. After she made a clear exit she ran for about ten more minutes and finally made it to the gates of Airdalen Academy. She was given a strange look since she arrived on foot and not by a car, so she pointed to her boy's uniform, it was definitely the Airdalen Academy issued uniform, so the guards let her through without conflict. Once she stepped onto the ground, her blue eyes scanned the area. She was amazed. This campus was so big.. especially for a high school. She was walking slowly, especially since she wasn't sure where to go. She wasn't exactly academic so she mostly got here through by guessing on the entrance exam and her athletic ability.

She somehow managed to make it to what appeared to be the right place and noticed that there was a rather tall male sitting with a dark haired female (Shiori and Rhys), and directly across from them was a really short and adorable girl, sitting by herself (Mai). Akira took this as a sign, or perhaps she was just too drawn to the cuteness, but she approached without hesitation. Of course there were more benches and students, but she felt most comfortable approaching this girl first. Besides, despite being dressed as a guy, other guys still intimidated her just as much, if not more. She wasn't looking to mingle with them just yet if she could avoid it. She was fairly short for a 'boy' and did look a bit feminine, but it was the best way to avoid anyone ever realizing who she is. The Akira that put that British boy in the hospital had long hair and dressed feminine as hell. She immediately cut her hair right before her trip to Japan, and took on the role as a male ever since to avoid the questions and dirty looks. So far no one recognized her, especially since she looked different, though not a lot of people knew about the attack since it was in a different country. She was just a bit paranoid and didn't want to see the same person that hospitalized that boy every time she looked in the mirror.

"Mind if I sit with you? I'm new and fairly lost.." She laughed a bit, although not being raised in Japan, her mother made sure that she was well versed in Japanese. The language came out of her mouth almost like second nature, although her accent was definitely foreign. She couldn't quite shake it, not that she wanted to. It was the only thing she had left of her mother, "I'm Akira Blake, and I'm a junior this year.. What is your name?" She had a kind smile on her face the entire time, patiently waiting for Mai's answer.

---

---

---

---

A blonde was sleeping in the back seat of her Grandmother's car when it came to a complete stop just outside of Airdalen Academy. The elderly, but uncharacteristically energetic woman reach back and shook her granddaughter, "Arietta, Dear, you've got to wake up. We're at the Academy. It's time to go to school. You can't expect to sleep all day, Ari-chan." Mrs. Hakushiro teased, running her fragile fingers through the blonde hair of the young Freshman. It was so different compared to her own. Her grey hair was once jet black, similar to Mr. Hakushiro's. The blonde came from that side of the family. A frown formed on her face, but her thoughts were interrupted when the blonde finally came to. Arietta's blue eyes fluttered open and she sat up slowly. After a moment of adjusting to consciousness, she rubbed her eyes with a cheerful laugh as well. She didn't even realize that she had fallen asleep. The second year of my new start..? I'm a nobody here.. She thought to herself in an unenthusiastic manner. Given the circumstances of her abrupt move, she understood that this was necessary, but there wasn't much of a silver lining. She had to move halfway through her high school career, and now a Senior, she had nothing to show for herself at this school. She wasn't a geek, but she wasn't exactly prom queen here either.

Well.. bright side no one here knows about my.. habit.. She let out a soft sigh as she ran a hand through her hair, eyes lowering as she felt the absence of her pendant, and presence of the bow in her hair. Losing her pendant was the worst thing that happened to her. It was the only physical possession her grandparents managed to salvage of her mother's. She felt horrible that she let it get stolen the two years before. Realizing she had to get out of the car before she made herself late, Arietta spoke up quickly, "Arigatou, Baachan!" She chimed, sliding out of the car and closed the door quietly behind her. After exiting, she spun around on her heel, shooting her grandmother a charming smile. She had to reassure the woman that she would be okay, or else she'd follow Arietta through the gates and embarrass the living daylights out of her. Please just go home..

"I can walk home.. I've got my cellphone." She reassured her, wishing to get fresh air. It had been two years since the incident, but moving to a new school didn't change the fact it happened.

"Well, alright.. If you're sure. If anything happens, make sure to call me." Her grandmother seemed a bit skeptical, but hesitantly nodded in approval. She knew that she'd have to learn to let Arietta return to a normal life eventually, and decided to give her some breathing space. She waved to the blonde girl before driving off.

Once she was out of view, Arietta sighed, closing her eyes and gripping her school bag nervously. I wonder if I will be able to become popular before graduation.. She couldn't help but worry about it, because never threw parties at her old school, and despite being high up on the popularity scale there, she had to move schools because they found out about her grandfather's business. She couldn't stay there for risk of being used against him and paparazzi was harassing her. She was forced to move to a more secure and private school, Airdalen Academy. Sure my grandfather owns a multi-million dollar company, but I can't tell anyone so that really makes things tough.. Besides, the money...we never see it. He only brings in a little over a million US dollars a year.. It was strange, but she decided to not worry on it too much. She wasn't an expert when it came to distributing pay checks to an entire company. Maybe 1.3 Million was the remainder once he paid off his employees? Though it didn't seem logical. The company earned well over 200 million annually. Every major business bought into her grandfather's company, including Airdalen Academy. Every school computer was monitored by her Grandfather's program.

She kept a slow pace as she made her way to the designated spot. She was in no rush to meet her fellow students. She only had one or two friends, and she wasn't even sure if they were here yet. Arietta planned to divide and conquer this school, but a lot happened last year, except her becoming super popular. Though her grades were doing VERY well because of it, she would gladly make bad grades to make more friends. What will make me stand out? I can't just fade into the background. I want to be somebody here!

She let her icy blue eyes wandering loosely over the school grounds, until she realized just how grand the school truly was. Sugoi.. it's beautiful.. She thought in amazement. As she approached the spot where the students were told to wait at. She knew that the school grounds would be full of people, but just Seniors and Juniors and the faculty.

She noticed an open seat next to a guy who she presumed was sleeping. She knew it wasn't proper etiquette to sit there, but she saw everyone else in equal boy to girl pairs (Akira/Mai and Shiori/Rhys) and didn't want to interrupt them. She recognized Shiori, whom she wasn't very fond of, but the chibi girl (Mai) , short boy (Akira) , and the tall guy (Rhys) were more than likely Junior students, because she didn't know them at all. She sat down quietly at the opposite side of the bench, checking her Facebook on her phone to pass the time. She sent a few messages to her friends at her old school, hoping that the extra weight on the bench didn't disturb Ryou too much. Please don't wake up.. I just didn't want to sit alone.. I don't want to look like a creeper.. She recognized him from class, and she knew he didn't like to be bothered by girls. Not that she blamed him, he seemed to constantly have a swarm after him. She could understand why, Ryou was an attractive guy, but she felt bad for him. She understood what it was like, the paparazzi tried to eat her alive when they found out she was the granddaughter of Mr. Hakushiro. She shivered at the thought. Though she had to admit that she loved to watch others, to get a general idea of their character.. but some were a bit harder to understand than others, notably Ryou and Aeon. She noticed another guy approaching, but she didn't recognize him either. He was a brunette, kind of tall. At least, he seemed tall from a distance (Johnny). Another Junior? They were definitely overrunning the place at the moment.

---

---

Popularity: +1 (@ Ryou)

---

---

Yuuki made it to school, but she was considerably far later than she had planned. She never realized just how much she relied on her parents up until now. She had to make her own breakfast, wash her own clothes, clean her own apartment top to bottom, study, and wash the dishes. She was a bit tired, but the coffee in her hands helped soothe that irritant. She approached and noticed several students, tilting her head a bit. There was a very tall brunette male (Johnny), an ebony haired sleeping male of similar size (Ryou), and a tall and long blondish-brownish haired male who seemed to be conversing with a girl slightly taller than herself who had long and beautiful ebony hair (Shiori). When she looked in the other direction she noticed a very small and cute ebony haired girl who was being addressed by a rather short and equally adorable ivory haired boy (boy).

At least I'm not the shortest.. She thought to herself, moving away from the crowd and located herself under a nice big tree, directly under the shade. She hated bright and sunny days, it always made reading difficult. The only thing worse than a sunny day was rainy days. Yuuki took careful note of her skirt before sitting down, smoothing it out against her legs with one hand and released it after taking a seat in the grass. She removed a bag from her shoulder, unzipping it afterwards only slip a math notebook out she'd received from cram school. She immediately began reading it's contents, doing the homework as she sat there. She wasn't here to make friends, she was here for the best education that her good grades could buy her. She couldn't afford to lose focus, because the only reason she was here was due to the scholarship her grades supplied her with. Friends were distractions, she learnt that the hard way a long time ago, and she wasn't looking to make any new ones.

She didn't want to go through losing them again, because she put her studies first and others couldn't seem to respect that. Everyone else always seemed to take school as a joke, but this was Japan, it was an eat or be eaten educational system, survival of the fittest. She was not going to be at the bottom of the food chain for the sake of maintaining a high school social life that would dissipate in about three more years.

Idiots.. They're wasting so much valuable time, and for what? She thought to herself, rolling her eyes as she moved on to the next math equation. She could hear a couple students that walked by mocking her, recognizing the booklet in her lap. She only overheard a few words; "Nerd", "Weirdo", etc. She was used to these labels, and merely shrugged them off. She couldn't let them hurt her, she had a promise to keep and the only opinions she had to honor was her mother's and father's. Sure, these words from random students did hurt, but she had to move on, or she'd never make her family's home life improve. Say what you want, when you're washing my car in ten years.. she added as a mental note, continuing to scribble down her answers. She flipped the first page, moving on to the next. Apparently she had more time than she thought. The spare time was at least letting her get ahead on her cram school assignments, which she was grateful for. She wanted to start on it last night, but she had too much to do at home. Perhaps this event taking so long to begin was a good thing after all.

At least no one has tried to come over here and 'vanquish the loner that is Yuuki Fujioka'. She thought to herself, golden eyes lifting for a split second to look at the crowd before returning to her work. At this rate, she'd be prepared for anything that Airdalen had in store for her as far as academics were concerned. Give it your best shot, Airdalen. I will even buy some weights if you try to fail me for gym class. She was very determined, and it was obvious by the look on her face. She was definitely consumed by the book she was working on and gave off a vibe of not wanting to be disturbed, though usually that's when people most often bothered her. Sure, she missed having friends, she was only human, but it was a luxury she couldn't afford right now, so she had to push people away, even if it meant being disinterested and mean to them. Besides, what were the chances that she would meet any of her classmates again after graduation? Friends always went different ways, so creating precious bonds would only cause emotional pain in the end for everyone involved. Making friends in school was a ludicrous idea when she came to think on the notion. She felt that pain first hand in middle school and she never wanted to experience it again if she didn't have to. Perhaps these students would be smart and respectful enough to read her body language and leave her the hell alone?

---

---

---

---

---

---

Physical/Sporting Ability | +1
Intellect | +1

Immediately, Shiori tensed up as a tall male with fairly pretty long brown-blond hair sat down beside her. She didn't recognize him, so he was obviously a Junior. Just because she didn't socialize often, didn't mean she wasn't aware of her classmates and their names. She cared about them and made a point to remember their names, she just couldn't express any of that to them in a healthy way. She was trembling just seconds before his arrival, and she was nervous that he might have noticed.

She took a moment to look at him when he turned his gaze the opposite way, blinking in curiosity. He sat here, only to ignore her? She tilted her head a bit at him, completely baffled by this boy's sense of logic. If he was shy, he would have had trouble approaching her. If he was hyperactive she would be looking for a way to plausibly escape this seating arrangement, and if he was creepy, wouldn't he have done something strange to her by now? Did he expect her to say something? Was he sitting here because she was quiet and just wanted to be left alone? She began to really overthink his actions and it was driving her a little crazy trying to decipher through all the possibilities on her own.

She turned her head away from the long haired junior (Rhys), completely confused by his choice to sit with her in silence. Suddenly the lack of noise was beginning to feel very awkward, so she did the best she could. Socializing was always her worst subject, but there were a few topics she could discuss without going on the rude defense, "Etto... the weather's really hot today.." She stated, looking up at the sky, shielding her eyes with one hand. The shade of blue was beautiful, and despite her home-body reputation, she did love warm days like this. Something about days like this one was nostalgic and brought her a small sense of peace. Perhaps it was because she met that boy on a day somewhat like this one?

"I'm Shiori Kitogawa." She added, not looking at Rhys directly, in fact, she was now staring at the ground, letting the toes of her shoes shuffle against the concrete to keep her mind off of the fact that she was talking to a complete stranger. So far she was doing alright, but she was definitely nervous. It wouldn't be long before something spurts out of her mouth to offend him. She was just postponing the inevitable. Sometimes she wasn't even sure why she even tried. Most people at this school hated her, the others simply tolerated or didn't care about her existence in the first place. Why did she try so hard to change? Then an image of that little blond boy she met as a child came back to her. The boy hugged her once when they first met, and she completely froze in panic. She knew there was probably still a picture of it somewhere, but she didn't personally have a copy of it. Ever since that day, she decided she wanted to be more like him, to be able to warmly embrace others and make friends so easily, to smile in that warm way, just like he did.

When she thought of him, she saw the colors one typically associated with summer, because that's exactly what his kindness felt like, the embrace of a warm summer's day. Her violet eyes shifted to the tall junior, and then back down to the ground, "You don't have to reply to me, I was just trying to be polite, that's all.." Her tone was a bit distant and definitely had a defensive edge to it. Her nerves finally got the best of her, and her body was going into protective mode. This was her own form of self preservation, of keeping her feelings protected from greater forms of pain at all times. Sure, loneliness hurt, but rejection from someone considered a cherished friend hurt way worse. She found that out at a very young age from her mother, but also because a friend betrayed her trust back in elementary school. She never wanted to feel that pain again.

Why did he sit here..? I want to ask, but I'm scared of the answer.. just like with Kazuhiko.. I'm always scared to ask people the more serious and intimate questions and end up making a fool out of myself instead. She was growing depressed with herself, so she busied herself. She put her pen and notebook in her bag, looking around at the students that came in since she began talking. T-That many!? She was immediately intimidated by the number of known and unknown faces surrounding. She knew that no one was watching her, but somehow she felt as though they were all spying on her, waiting for her to slip up.. She felt like everyone in the area was waiting to find a reason to judge her, even though common sense told her that no one here cared about her or what she was doing. Half of them didn't even know who she was, and the other half..well, we discussed the seniors earlier in this post. Why do I overreact to everything? Why can't I be like all of them and just act natural..? Why do I have to be so different..? I wish I could talk freely about anything, just like everyone else.. I hate being different.. Shiori thought to herself, nervous and angry fists tightening in her lap, sort of crinkling her skirt.

---

---

---

---

---

---

╔╗

---

---

---

---

Popularity +1 to Cassiopeia
(That's my understanding, if it isn't please free to add the stats and edit it GM's)

The small girl had been humming the first theme song to Rangers Unite! to herself quietly. She looked pretty content with herself as she absentmindedly swung her legs back and forth. Although she knew it made her look even smaller, Mai enjoyed doing it since it gave her something to do. Mai was even swaying to the song as it played in her head but only if you paying close attention would you notice her movement. Every now and then Mai would look up to see if anyone else had arrived and by the looks of it someone did. A young man, or rather a pretty boy, had arrived. He was smaller than most of the men she has seen but he was certainly taller than she was. The fact that he wasn't that much taller than her made him seem less intimidating. I wish I was his height. Mai pouted inwardly hating the fact that she didn’t inherit her parents genes but rather her Oba-san, may she rest in peace. Had Mai watched the boy a little longer she would have seen him approaching her and could have prepared for a confrontation however those green orbs caught sight of a ladybug that was crawling on the edge of the bench to her right.

Mind if I sit with you? I'm new and fairly lost.." Mai jumped a bit as she wasn’t expecting to be spoken to. Instead of looking up right away, Mai hunched her shoulders slightly in hopes that this boy was talking to someone else. She noticed that he had an accent and the butterflies in her stomach got worse. In that little moment Mai really wished she was the ladybug right now. "I'm Akira Miyuu, and I'm a junior this year.. What is your name?" At this point Mai finally realized just how rude she was being.

Taking in a deep breathe, Mai finally looked up at the boy who had introduced himself as Akira. Green met aquamarine for a brief second before she diverted her eyes elsewhere. Placing her hands together on her lap, Mai fiddled with her thumbs as she made attempts to calm herself down to give him an answer. Why is such a pretty person talking to me? And he wants to sit next to me!? The young woman simply couldn’t wrap her mind around the idea. Mai dared to look at his face again and noticed the kind smile that was present, in a way seeing that smile put her at ease if just a little. Come on Mai! Just breathe and answer his question and you’ll be just fine. She bit the corner of her lip and fiddled with her thumbs a bit more before finally she spoke.

“H-Hell-o. U-um y-you –ma-ay, I do-don’t m-mind at a-all.” Closing her mouth she got the first half of what she wanted to say done with but her stutter was getting worse every second. “I-I’m M-Mai K-Kon a-a J-Junior, pl-pleased t-to ma-mak-e y-you-you’re a-aq-aquian-tance.” Releasing a sigh of relief, Mai visibly deflated and had stopped twiddling her thumbs. Mai looked around at her surroundings quickly and noticed a few more people had shown up. And it sounded like someone was playing music, she couldn’t quite name the band but it did sound familiar.

Straightening up, Mai looked to where the music was coming from and saw that normally sized boy (Bishop) had shown up who looked kind of nice. He had soft looking blonde hair and she could tell, even from a distance, that he might be a bit athletic. He looks happy. Watching him a little while longer resulted in her witnessing him being chewed out by a girl with glasses and short purple hair (Yuuki). A small smile appeared on her lips. Mai felt a little bad for the boy but she didn’t get much time to worry about him since there was one sitting next to him. “Oh.” came quietly as she realized she might have looked like she was ignoring him. Quickly turning her attention back on Akira she bit her lip again and somehow ended up looking like she was going to cry. Okay you got this Mai. Just ask him something, anything. As she opened her mouth, a relatively tall boy (Kazuki) landed right in front of them.

His arrival had been so sudden that Mai jumped and made a small yelping sound of surprise. Watch where you stand!" Mai was still in utter shock, then again she probably wouldn’t’ have had the nerve to give a reply to him even if she wasn’t. “Well, see you later kiddos! All she could do really was watch him in silence as the young man ran off again with the guards right behind them. “Eh?” Mai really was just confused. She seriously hoped that this wasn’t a common occurrence in her first day at a new school.

---

---

Popularity +1 (Bishop & Akira) Hopefully it was done right. Edit if it isn't^^;

“H-Hell-o. U-um y-you –ma-ay, I do-don’t m-mind at a-all.”

Akira was a bit relieved, very appreciative that the girl accepted her so easily. Though she just found the girl to be even cuter now that she realized the girl was timid. Akira was going to sit down, but decided to wait until she caught the girl's name first. She was still getting used to proper Japanese introductions after all.

“I-I’m M-Mai K-Kon a-a J-Junior, pl-pleased t-to ma-mak-e y-you-you’re a-aq-aquian-tance.”

"Kon-san.. That's a really short family name. It's nice to meet you, Mai-chan!" Akira stated, opting to call the girl by first name instead after blinking a few times in surprise by the short length of her name. The girl's first name was Mai, another short name. Though, for some reason, it really fit. Akira couldn't imagine her name being anything else now that she'd heard it. Then she felt the need to admit something about Mai, and before she could even begin to assess whether she should keep it to herself or not, she blurted out the words, "You're so kawaii, Mai-chan." She said this in a serious and shameless tone, a smile on her face the entire time. She wasn't nervous, nor was she joking. She didn't even seem to realize that this would more than likely really embarrass the short girl, especially since Mai was under the impression that Akira was a boy, judging by the uniform, short hair, etc. Akira often forgot that she should be more conscious about her behavior, especially since she was a 'boy' now. It was easy to forget that girls were a bit less forward here, and far easier to embarrass than in Britain due to the stricter formalities here.

Akira noticed where Mai's eyes landed, and she let out a soft chuckle. The blond boy (Bishop) was getting told off by a lavender haired female, and she definitely found it a bit amusing. She liked a girl that spoke her mind, just about as much as she liked shy girls like Mai. Akira then spoke up, not realizing how it would sound, "I like girls like that. It's a good thing that she knows what she wants and tells others when they've displeased her. Ne?" She wasn't even aware that it sounded like she meant she was romantically attracted to girls like the angry bookworm (Yuuki). Akira was oblivious to the fact that she would have to watch her words to avoid misunderstandings, and it would surely put her in a lot of awkward situations in the near future.

"Watch where you stand!"

Akira instinctively shot forward in reaction to Mai's shock and the unknown guy's (Kazuki's) entrance, leaning forward and shielding Mai from the possibility of danger with her own body. Akira didn't even stop to consider that it might make the girl embarrassed, she was too worried about her general. She wasn't sure if this loud delinquent would lose his footing, and she wouldn't have been able to live with herself if she stood by and allowed the smaller girl to get stepped on or hurt in any way. She knew she was very close to the other girl because of this, but she couldn't help what her instincts caused her to do, "You could have hurt her! Watch where you're going!" Akira shouted in the tall guy's (Kazuki's) direction, twitching a bit.

"Well, see you later kiddos!"

Guys who put girls in danger.. How dare he risk hurting her for his own sake! She thought to herself, both of her fists clenched as she held in her anger, knuckles turning a pale white as she watched the guy sprint off and interrupt several other conversations.

“Eh?”

Then she remembered she was leaning over Mai in a defensive way. Akira blinked down at the smaller girl and removed herself from Mai's personal space. Akira immediately rubbed the back of her neck and let out a nervous laugh, realizing she probably made the girl feel very uncomfortable, "S-sorry about that.. I was scared he was going to end up landing on you. I hope I didn't make you feel uncomfortable." She replied in a nervous tone, hoping she didn't scare the girl too much with her forward actions. The Japanese were a more reserved group of people, and Akira realized her actions were definitely defined as an invasion of space.

Akira sat down with a generous amount of space between herself and Mai, eyes averting. She realized that she probably came across as some perverted boy from Mai's perspective, but it honestly wasn't like that. Now everything is awkward.. She was just responding to protect the small girl from injury. She never wanted to see someone get hurt if she could take their place. After watching her parents die, she didn't want to see anyone else get hurt, especially people she liked..and this girl was absolutely adorable. She was shy, and very petite, Akira kind of wanted to poke the girl's cheek to make sure that she was real, but she refrained from touching her, even when she'd used her own body to shield Mai from the black haired parkour guy (Kazuki).

"Why did you look like you were going to cry earlier... Did someone say something mean to you?" Akira asked with innocent curiosity on her face, completely baffled by the true cause of Mai's shyness and nervousness. She didn't realize that Mai found her 'pretty' and was extra nervous because she was a 'boy' who approached her out of nowhere. Akira was a bit dense when it came to understanding others, which often put her in uncomfortable situations like this one. It was safe to say that Akira was no good at reading in between the lines. She'd come to a completely off base conclusion in the end, "If they did, just point them out and I'll make them apologize." she responded with a cheerful grin on her face, running a hand through her hair. This uniform was rather hot, considering the sun was blaring down on them and she unbuttoned the black jacket of her uniform to reveal the white shirt, letting out a soft sigh afterwards.

---

---

---

---

"Kon-san.. That's a really short family name. It's nice to meet you, Mai-chan!"” Mai looked surprised at having been called Mai-chan. She certainly wasn’t expecting Akira, who she only just met, to use chan. The small girl also never really thought about how short her name was. I guess it is pretty short. It seemed like Akira was going to be full of surprises by what he said next or rather blurted out. "You're so kawaii, Mai-chan." Mai was once again caught off guard. Her small lips parted but no sound came through as she could only gawk in embarrassment at having been called kawaii. She could feel the heat rush to her face as it soon turned the color of a tomato. It was rather difficult to tell how she should take it. Akira said it so easily with that same smile he has had since she saw him.

It looked like Akira did notice her eyes wondering since he commented on it. Even if it was unintentional, Mai now knew of his preference and felt a little sad at not being the type of girl he liked. Wait what am I saying? I have only just met him. With a tight lipped smile, Mai clenched her fists on her lap and quickly shook her head. The color had yet to leave her face and it seemed to only get darker at what occurred next. When the other boy had landed in front of them a figure suddenly shot forwards to shield her from any oncoming injury. Mai pulled away instinctively, bringing her arms up to keep Akira’s body from getting too close but he was still pretty close. Thankfully any imminent danger she was in had gon and Akira stepped away from Mai whose face was an incredibly bright red and looked to be in a bit of a daze. "S-sorry about that.. I was scared he was going to end up landing on you. I hope I didn't make you feel uncomfortable.

His apology brought her back to reality. The dazed looked now gone Mai was still red in the face but it had gone down. She quickly shook her head no to his apology since she couldn’t quite make her mouth move. The small girl still wouldn’t have been able to say anything even if she did, her brain was currently in overdrive trying to process what had just occurred. Mai noticed that Akira had put quite some distance between the two of them and she felt bad for having made him feel nervous. Taking in a deep breathe Mai was able to speak but the stutter had gotten considerably worse. “T-Th-Than-nk y-yo-you f-fo-or s-sa-savin-ing m-me.” she said with a wide smile on her face.

There was a brief lull of awkward silence which Mai was thankful for. It gave her time to gather her scattered thoughts and calm her pounding heart. A hand unconsciously drifted to the side of her face as she felt the heat burn her hand a bit. I hope I don’t get a fever. Still wrapped up in her thoughts Mai still couldn’t believe Akira had protected her like that. The only people she knew to have ever done that were her papa and mama. For a brief moment her thoughts drifted to her parents and she wondered how well they were doing with her not there. "Why did you look like you were going to cry earlier... Did someone say something mean to you?" Her thoughts were interrupted by his question but Mai was a bit happy that he was talking to her, even if it was about a touchy subject. “N-No o-on-e d-did.” shaking her head as she spoke. If they did, just point them out and I'll make them apologize." Mai wasn’t sure if it was the words he said or the cheerful smile he had as he said them that caused her to react the way she did. Mai suddenly began to giggle quietly to herself.

Realizing that her giggle may have been taken as her making fun of him, she stopped abruptly and apologized as quickly as she could. “ Ah! I-I’m so-sorry. I-I di-didn’t m-mean to-to l-lau-gh.” quickly standing to bow in apology. After waiting for a little while Mai stood up right, bringing her hands in front of her as she grabbed the edges of her uniform’s skirt. Her green eyes avoided looking at Akira again out of embarrassment. She heard his sigh and mistook it for him becoming impatient since she had yet to answer his initial question. Oh. Ah I di-didn’n’t r-real-lize I-I wa-as ig-noring y-you.” Looking away again, Mai frowned as she sat back down. She wasn’t sure if he would still want to talk to her and for a moment she was content with that. Suddenly her cousins words echoed in her mind Make some new friends. Swallowing the lump in her throat, Mai’s small fists tightened as she turned to face Akira. Biting her lip again, Mai mustered up all the courage she had to ask him a single question. “ M-May I-I cal-call y-you Akira-kun?” Since he had decided to call her by first name she thought it was only appropriate if she did the same otherwise it may have been seen as rude.

“T-Th-Than-nk y-yo-you f-fo-or s-sa-savin-ing m-me.”

To Akira's pleasant surprise, Mai seemed very thankful about her actions. Akira was completely baffled by Mai's response. Most girls would have been angry. Though Mai directly had thanked her, and this brought Akira a sense of relief, but also restored her easygoing nature to it's proper order. Thank goodness.. I was afraid that she would think I was creepy.. Akira thought to herself, glad that this turned out for the better in the end. She really needed to be more careful, because her actions as a boy and as a girl would all come across differently. A girl could get closer to a girl than she could as a boy.. and she often forgot about those social rules.

“N-No o-on-e d-did.”

"That's good." Akira nodded her head, a bit relieved. She didn't know anyone here, and getting into a fight wouldn't have done good towards her reputation, though if someone had been bullying this girl, Akira knew that she'd throw her reputation out the window to defend her. Ever since her mother died Akira felt the need to protect those she cared for, especially the women in her life. I'll do my best to keep you safe.

“Ah! I-I’m so-sorry. I-I di-didn’t m-mean to-to l-lau-gh.”

Akira laughed as well, waving her hand at Mai dismissively, "It's alright. I'd laugh at me too.. I mean look at how short I am.. I guess it's because I hate milk." She chuckled, not offended by the laugh at all. Though she figured that if she were a real boy, her ego might have actually been shot a little. Sure, she was small, but she knew a bit about fighting and she was actually very athletic. Though there was no way that Mai would know that simply by meeting her. These uniforms did well at hiding Akira's muscle, especially since she was rather short and skinny for a male student, "I'm stronger than I look though, so don't worry." She chimed, a slightly cocky grin on her face.

"Oh. Ah I di-didn’n’t r-real-lize I-I wa-as ig-noring y-you.”

Akira put her hands up in a defensive manner, shaking her head, "It's not that." She explained in a rather desperate manner. She didn't feel that way at all, and it was finally becoming obvious to Akira that this girl was simply timid all of the time. She wasn't used to interacting with timid people, so Akira knew she would have to try her best to be subtle and respectful to Mai's boundaries, but subtle just wasn't wired into Akira's nature. She was very blunt, and not to mention very affectionate, reckless, and twice as much curious. She rubbed the back of her neck, feeling bad for giving Mai the wrong idea. She would have been more careful if she'd of known her actions would cause Mai to feel guilty. Akira's eyes turning toward the sky for a moment, pondering how to explain the situation, "It's just, it's really hot out today... I unbuttoned my jacket and it felt nice when the breeze hit, that's all." She reassured Mai with her signature goofy grin plastered on her face.

She then turned to directly face Mai, a sincere look on her face as she continued, "Besides, I don't mind if you're quiet sometimes." She added, looking around to make sure that no more delinquents were rushing towards them. Was this going to be a constant thing? She figured this school would have been delinquent-free considering it's tuition cost and reputation. Though she figured there were plenty of delinquents with heavy purses. Immediately a frown formed on her face as she thought of rich people, seeing as Akira was not particularly fond of the upper class. Her biological father, Watari Miyuu, left her mother and he was quite wealthy. She couldn't help but believe her mother would have still been alive today if her father had never abandoned them.. and she's held a bit of a grudge ever since towards those who qualified as the wealthy 1% of society. She never voices this, but her grandmother constantly urges her to marry someone rich and it really irks her to no end. She would never do that, ever. It was half the reason she took up the persona as a boy. She couldn't attract guys if they believed she was one as well. Friendship, that's all she was after. She didn't mind befriending rich kids, but she definitely would never fall in love with one. Love is reckless, and a gamble. A gamble I'm not willing to make.. As reckless as she was, she was not fond of gambling, especially if it would cause problems for her family in the future.

“M-May I-I cal-call y-you Akira-kun?”

Akira had gotten so lost in her own thoughts that she'd completely missed Mai's struggle to get these words out, but thankfully the words were loud enough to jar her back into reality. Akira blinked a bit as she let herself take in Mai's words. A light blush crossed her face, considering she'd never been called so familiarly since she'd left Britain. Akira found herself nodding her head shortly after, not taking a lot of time to think on it. It wasn't a big deal, Mai was a girl too, "It's only fair, ne?" She responded with a kind smile. Then she noticed something in Mai's hair, tilting her head for a second before it became clear as to what it was.

"Hold still, you've got something in your hair. I'll get it, okay?" Akira informed Mai in a calm tone, gently reaching forward and plucking a cherry blossom from the short ebony hair on Mai's head before presenting the pink little blossom to her as evidence. She didn't want the girl to think it was a cheap trick to touch her after all. Akira still wasn't used to the beauty of the Cherry Blossom trees, it was her favorite part about moving to Japan. Akira examined the blossom with a complex expression on her face, but quickly released it, "All better."

Just as quickly her expression returned to her outgoing and hyperactive one. For a 'boy', Akira was very expressive, and released her thoughts very freely. She wasn't afraid to talk about her feelings at all, even in front of a new acquaintance like Mai. I hope I can become close to this girl.. It's been too long since I've had a friend. Akira despite being bright and cheerful, wasn't very popular among other people. Sure, some people liked her around her neighborhood, but she wasn't anyone's favorite person. She was considered a bit annoying, especially since she was a hyper and cheerful boy. There were always social stigmas, and a cheerful girl was seen as cute, while a cheerful boy was seen as a slacker and a bit dumb in Japanese society.

An almost silent sigh of relief passed through her lips. Mai was glad that Akira wasn’t upset with her. She wasn’t sure what she’d do if the pretty boy suddenly disliked her because she couldn’t control her laughter. Thinking more on it, Mai got a little sad at the idea of losing her first friend even before they made it clear that they were friends. Mai giggle alongside Akira’s joking words, a smile playing at her lips. "I'm stronger than I look though, so don't worry." She nodded in agreement as she herself was stronger than many assume. It requires a little bit of muscle to carry bags of soil up those temple stairs. As she thought back to those first treks up those stairs, Mai happily regretted ever doing so. Whenever she got to the top she was dead tired but after going up them so many times, Mai got used to it.

"It's not that." Upon hearing this Mai’s forehead wrinkled with worry as an onslaught of thoughts on what she may have done to make him sigh passed through her mind. Was it because of her stutter, was she just not cute enough or was she just too cute that she looked fake; maybe it was the fact that Mai was just small and timid. Unbeknownst to the small girl, she had begun to lean forwards anticipating his clarification on why he had sighed. "It's just, it's really hot out today... I unbuttoned my jacket and it felt nice when the breeze hit, that's all." Mai’s uptight shoulders relaxed and she let out a little Oh. She hadn’t realized that he had unbuttoned his jacket. Curiosity got the better of her as green orbs glanced furtively at his unbuttoned jacket. Even if she only saw his undershirt, Mai was still a bit embarrassed for having looked. What’s wrong with you Mai? Were you hoping to see some skin? Inwardly chastising herself. Suddenly Akira turned to face her and realizing that she had been leaning forwards, Mai leaned back to a reasonable distance. "Besides, I don't mind if you're quiet sometimes." A small smile wormed its way onto her face, “R-really?”

Mai was still awaiting his answer to her request. After having heard herself say those words, Mai was beginning to regret saying them. It was quite possible that Akira would say no to her. They did just meet after all so it was unusual to suddenly call someone by name so early. The small girl’s fists clung onto her skirt to try and hide the shaking. It seemed Akira had been brought back to wherever his mind had wondered off to and his brief silence made Mai incredibly nervous. Mai glanced out the corner of her eye at Akira and noticed the blush that was coloring his cheeks. She wasn’t sure why but she assumed it was because of the hot sun. Finally he nodded, "It's only fair, ne?" Her head snapped back to look at Akira; a look of surprise as well as delight on her face. However this was quickly overdone by a deep blush that was amplified even more by what he did next.


“Hold still, you've got something in your hair. I'll get it, okay?" Confused at first Mai sat still as could be but stiffened as he reached out towards her. Mai looked at her hands intently with her lips pressed tight into a firm line. As she waited patiently she felt light headed at the closeness but snapped back to reality when he presented to her the cherry blossom to her. “Oh. I-it’s p-pre-tty.” Those were the only words Mai could figure out to say and she felt terrible that she couldn’t say more. Throughout their interactions on this bench since he got here, Mai took note of how expressive Akira was. Unlike her he was able to express himself very well, both with facial expressions as well as words. As she thought about it some more the sadness from before returned and a frown settled on her face. Without realizing it she had grown incredibly quiet, staring at her hands again. Mai could feel her eyes water and she hated the fact that she was already starting to cry about something she was well aware of.

“ATTENTION, ATTENTION, ALL SENIORS AND JUNIORS PLEASE HEAD OVER TO THE SCHOOL HALL FOR ANNOUNCEMENTS. SENIORS, PLEASE HELP GUIDE THE JUNIORS SHOULD THEY GET LOST. WE’RE RUNNING BEHIND ON SCHEDULE SO STAY SHARP.”

Startled by the sudden announcement, Mai used this moment to quickly wipe at her eyes as she gathered her wits about her. “Ah I g-guess w-we g-go no-now?” She wasn’t sure if Akira would want to go with her or not. Assuming he did, Mai slide off the bench. The ebony haired girl made sure to pat herself down so that there was no dirt on her clothes and even checked her bag for all of her things. Knowing that everything was where it should be, Mai gave Akira a shy smile and followed him towards the school hall.

“R-really?”

"Honestly." Akira reassured the small girl with a nod of her head. Akira didn't realize all the harm she could cause posing as a boy, especially to Mai's feelings. She wasn't exactly strategical, and this plan was only half baked when she came up with it. She wasn't even thinking of the consequences that could follow being discovered by the school staff. It never really even crossed her mind that she could get in trouble for disguising herself as another gender.

“Oh. I-it’s p-pre-tty.”

"Yeah, it was." Akira responded to Mai, although she was giving a thoughtful look to the nearby Cherry blossom trees as she spoke to her fellow freshman. She wasn't sure why she enjoyed looking at the Cherry blossoms so much, but something about them was nostalgic. It made her feel a bittersweet sense of peace, which was something she seldom felt since the loss of her parents. It didn't feel like it had been too long ago, but it had been years since her mother and step-father died in the car crash. Some days she woke up and completely forgot that her parents were dead, and other days it was just as heartbreaking as the day of the accident itself. She didn't believe any of that 'all wounds heal' bullshit. It wasn't true, and it gave teens the wrong impression when it came to pain. For years she felt like a oddball for not 'bouncing' back immediately from losing her family. A bit of therapy and the move helped a lot, but still there was a gaping hole in her chest, and it was a weight she felt she would carry for the rest of her life.

“ATTENTION, ATTENTION, ALL SENIORS AND JUNIORS PLEASE HEAD OVER TO THE SCHOOL HALL FOR ANNOUNCEMENTS."

"Looks like it's starting.." Akira chimed in an energetic fashion, definitely excited to begin her new year at school, though she was also putting on a strong face. She was still distracted by thoughts of her parents, but no one wanted to befriend the kid that constantly whines about their dead parents, so she had to suck it up, and move along, even though it hurt. Announcements? Why do we have to go inside for that? Are we doing something special? She mentally asked herself, although the question was definitely rhetorical. Her face held a baffled expression, though she decided to just go along with whatever this school had planned. Besides, she didn't want to stand out much to the staff, because she didn't want anyone to go digging into her student records, because if they looked closely, most of them said 'female' clear as day on the papers.

"SENIORS, PLEASE HELP GUIDE THE JUNIORS SHOULD THEY GET LOST."

How far away is the building? Immediately her eyes turned to Mai, then the surrounding students. Everyone else around them was very tall compared to them, sans some of the female population. She didn't want Mai to get lost in the commotion, especially since she now felt a sense of responsibility for this girl. They just met not too long ago, but Mai was just so fragile that some sort of instinct kicked in that made Akira want to do everything that she could to support her.

"WE’RE RUNNING BEHIND ON SCHEDULE SO STAY SHARP.”

Stay sharp? Why? Akira tilted her head, definitely at a loss. Was something bad going to happen or was she talking about keeping an eye out for that maniac (Kazuki) that the guards dragged off a few moments earlier? Though, she could somewhat relate.. back in Britain she was always getting into fights, and labeled a delinquent. She understood him a bit, but she couldn't get over the fact that he'd put girls at risk of harm to make his escape. She unconsciously clenched her fists, causing her knuckles to turn white again. If that guy (Kazuki) ever ends up hurting Mai, I guess I'll have to fight him. She wasn't exactly a steroid cage fighter, but she was fairly good at fighting, thanks to all the workouts and sports activities she took place in. Carrying heavy supply boxes at work also helped define her arm muscles, so that was a plus. I might lose, but who knows? Perhaps next time he'll watch where he's going, or at least think twice...

“Ah I g-guess w-we g-go no-now?”

"So it seems..." Akira nodded her head in agreement and stood, buttoning her male uniform jacket as Mai dusted herself off. Akira dusted her pants, a dirt spot on the back would definitely be embarrassing to say the least. Though after Mai was done, and she'd checked her own uniform for wardrobe malfunctions, she led the way towards the building and Mai seemed to follow her. Suddenly she realized they would be sitting down again, and pointed over towards a dark haired male (Ryou) He seemed to be mostly minding his own business and was close to the back, a low key spot that she felt would make Mai more comfortable than being surrounded by people, "You can sit with me if you want... I'm going to go ask him if it's okay to sit over there." She informed the small girl, not wanting to make her feel left out, especially since Mai was the only person she knew here so far. Freshmen had to stick together, right?

Without hesitation, Akira approached the tall dark haired male, taking a moment to check to make sure that Mai was still following her as well. Here it goes, just be cool. You're a dude now, so this should be easy. Akira mentally repeated at least three times in her head before she reach the row where the tall male was sitting, "Hey, do you mind if we sit in this row? I'm not too worried about seeing, so long as I can hear them, plus this is close to the exit.. so it's a bit more convenient.." She responded, rubbing the back of her neck, causing some of her short ivory hair to shuffle and tussle around from her nervousness. She was a bit worried that a real guy would be able to tell she wasn't a boy, so she made a mental note to keep her neck concealed by her uniform collar. She definitely didn't want someone to notice her severe lack of an Adam's apple this early in the game. Once people got to know Akira as a boy, she was fairly certain they would no longer be searching for minor details that would give clues to her true gender.. at least she hoped so.

She was a bit worried that the ebony haired male would refuse their company, because he definitely came across as an older student, but she wasn't entirely sure. He turned down a group of girls moments before their approach, but perhaps it's because they were bickering and being a bit obnoxious? It was then that her eyes landed on the tall male once more, noticing that he was very aesthetically pleasing, though her attention at this school was not going to placed in flirting, so she didn't let herself notice his appeal any further. Calm down. Calm down... She reminded herself, also reminding herself that here, she was a boy, and she couldn't check out other boys, regardless of if he reminded her of a magazine model. Perhaps he was one? This school was very elite, and the tuition cost was painful... she luckily got in free, on a fluke scholarship.. so she'd have to work hard from now on.

---

---

---

---

================================

================================

"I have wondered
what they see in me
whether they imposed
their dreams on me or
do they make me their illusions
because, I can only be me."

================================█
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
███
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
██The silence did not last long and somehow, he was used to that. Whenever he is at school or even at his work, the peace he would like to have does not exist in such generous lengths, so, he does appreciate the ones he could have even at small amounts. His arms were still crossed over his chest as he looked to the one who asked whether they could sit in this row. That was an odd thing to ask someone, especially him. He doesn't own any of the seats nor would he deny them. If the event with the girls would be put up, he didn't told them not to sit here or anything. He simply said to be quiet and if not, leave. They were disturbing not only him, but the others too.

His eyes landed on the source of the question and he could not help but be still. It was because he was rather confused. The person before him was a female from the physical features, but this person was wearing a male uniform. That only means that this is a he. It seemed that his first impression is wrong then. This guy (Akira) is just probably very pretty just like how others would call Aeon at times. That made him remember one of the stories that Hikaru and Trixie told him once, about a trap. In that conclusion, he did not pry into anything further about the person (Akira). "Go ahead, make yourselves comfortable. I don't own them." That is all he said. There was no negativity behind it as he returned his attention to the front.

There he noticed a noise at the front which was caused by the known Hellion of Airdalen. It seemed he was fighting with his uncle, the Math teacher. Well, that should be enough to distract Kazuki from hounding him or causing anymore ruckus.

Ryou took the moment to glance at his seatmate as something familiar was caught from the corner of his eye. He recalled an image of a little girl (Mai) who came to buy seeds and flowers from his part-time work during the course of the summer. That very customer who he had assumed to be a student from middle school was presently here at Airdalen and without a doubt a high school student. "Wait, aren't you the girl..." He stated without much thinking as he was taken surprise by her appearance. It meant that his part-time job might be revealed and he meant it to be a secret as much as possible. It was not because it was not allowed by the school or something. This was more of he didn't want the word to get out and be surrounded by girls coming from this school. He already has his hands full from the the ones not from here.

"Excuse me." Ryou addressed the feminine boy (Akira) with those eyes of his that seemed to exude gravity as it reflected the white-haired boy's form (Akira) before he looked towards the small girl (Mai). He leaned forward and whispered into the girl's ear. "Keep my job a secret." His voice so soft, so gentle, and did not hold any kind of animosity. His words were a whisper as it caresses the girl's ear in secrecy. He then moved away as he did not want to make things awkward or uncomfortable for anyone especially her (Mai). There were also the stares going towards them as the girls vying for Ryou's attention were now casting daggers of glares at the two people nearest to him, especially of the little girl, (Mai). "Oh..." He suddenly remembered as he looked at the two. "Welcome to Airdalen." He assumed they were freshmen seeing they were not familiar faces here at school and he should say that, it would make things less awkward. Well, that is what he was told by a special person.

---

STATS

Popularity + 1 (Akira)
Popularity + 1 (Aeon)

"Go ahead, make yourselves comfortable. I don't own them."

"Arigato, Senpai." Akira replied, laughing casually at his strange response, but did not hesitate to take the seat next to Ryou. Though she was just generally excited about being at a new school, rather than flirting with Ryou. Showing interest in guys would only prove awkward, besides she promised herself that she wouldn't fall for anyone at this school. Most of the guys here were wealthy, and she wanted nothing to do with someone who had money...at least not romantically. Her father's wealth is what made it so easy for him to abandon her mother.. It is what made her meet her step-father, and led to her mother's death. She did not want anything to do with that kind of lifestyle. With an energetic smile, Akira ushered for Mai to sit down to the seat on the left of her, thus putting herself between the tall male (Ryou) and small Mai.

She noticed the noise towards the front, but she chose to not pay attention to it. Instead, Akira leaned back in her seat, enjoying the air conditioning. It was a pleasant change from the direct sunlight outside, and it almost had her dozing off a bit. The cool air was just so relaxing, she couldn't help but feel a little drowsy. Besides, she didn't get a lot of sleep, ever. Household chores, her job, plus school? She didn't have a lot of time to get proper sleep.

"Wait, aren't you the girl..."

Immediately Akira's eyes shot open as she was overwhelmed with almost suffocating fright. As she caught on to the situation, she was immediately relieved. She realized that the dark haired student (Ryou) was addressing Mai, and not her at all. Her heart nearly shot out of her chest when she thought Ryou recognized her as a girl. T-thank goodness.. I was about to have a heart attack.. Akira thought, placing a hand on her chest as she tried to retrieve her composure. Her chest ached from fear and dread, and she doubted the feeling would go away any time soon. Though, Akira had to admit that she was definitely a bit surprised when their seatmate appeared to recognize Mai. I wonder where these two met.. She thought as she looked between the two, trying to get a mental picture of a place these two would realistically meet. She somehow only got an image of a chance meeting at a fast-food restaurant. Mai and this male student just appeared to be from two completely different worlds. Though Akira knew better than to judge, many people wouldn't assume that she had a slightly delinquent past either...

"Excuse me."

Akira's eyes widened a bit as she was tugged back into the real world by the ebony haired male's words, and she turned her head to make eye contact, "Eh?" She was a bit confused as to what he meant by his words. Was he getting up or something? Although his words aside, something about his gaze sent chills down her spine. What is this feeling? It's kind of hard to explain.. kind of scary..? Her eyes still were a bit wide as she tried to make heads or tails of the stranger's gaze (Ryou's) but Akira broke eye contact shortly before he did. She couldn't handle it anymore, even if he was about to break his gaze on her and switch to Mai. What was that..? She wasn't blushing, but there was definitely something different about this guy, he was a bit scary.. even if he was polite. Though, she wasn't even sure why his gaze was so intimidating. Maybe it was his height? She was baffled, but totally taken by surprise when the tall male leaned over her to whisper to Mai.

Immediately Akira's face broke out into a dark red blush. Sure, talking to him was okay, and the eye contact was alright as well, despite the fact that it sent a cold feeling down her spine... but this was a little too familiar and she definitely couldn't compose herself in time to avoid getting embarrassed. It was the first time since she'd came to Japan that she'd been this close to a guy.. (unless the crammed trains and subways counted..) She turned her gaze to watch those entering the building, her blush dying down as she distracted herself from the other two. She glanced over for a second, catching them whispering still, and Mai was blushing as well, making Akira feel a little more reassured, even though she knew she shouldn't. She was supposed to be a boy, so she had to get used to stuff like this, she had to harden her feminine weaknesses or risked being exposed as a girl.

Then she noticed the glares shot towards Mai and herself, and Akira glared right on back. She wasn't going to be pushed around just because she chose to sit by someone, and she'd answer anyone with a fist if they tried to tell Mai she couldn't speak to whomever she wanted. Akira hated bullies, and she wasn't going to let anyone tell her or her friends who the could hang out with. Once Ryou returned to sitting properly in his own seat, Akira addressed him, "Those girls trying to have a glaring contest with me and Mai-chan... fans your's by any chance? If so, I feel very sorry for you, dude.." She asked, not angry with the senior male, but definitely irritated with the girls that seemed to always flock nearby. It was obvious that the white haired 'boy's' irritation was towards the girls based on the way 'his' tone changed to a more kind and gentle tone when she finished hissing out the words 'Those girls'.

"Oh..."

A quizzical look spread across Akira's face as the older student began speaking once more, causing her to blink a few times in confusion, a lot faster than normal. What else did he have to say? Was he going to lean over her again? She hoped not... That was embarrassing enough the first time around and she wasn't looking to experience it twice in a ten minute time frame.

"Welcome to Airdalen."

She blinked a few more times, a grin forming on her face afterwards. That was all? She began rubbing the back of her neck, glad that she'd chosen a seatmate that was polite and not very complicated... kind of like Mai, but also different in his own light as well, "I'm Blake, Akira nice to meet you-" Though her words cut off as she realized that she'd never gotten the tall male's (Ryou's) name.

Mai followed after Akira, making sure to stick close to him lest she lose sight of him. Considering the height of everyone else and the amount of people, Mai was certain that it wouldn’t be very hard for them to be separated without even realizing it. The small girl was tempted to just grab hold of the back of Akira’s jacket but that wouldn’t be quite right. There was no way she could enact something so intimate. They had finally reached the inside of the school hall and already there were quite a few students sitting down or milling about the large room. Mai couldn’t remember the last time she had been in such a populated place, well aside from the farmers market. She nearly walked ahead of Akira and had he not pointed out to something she wouldn’t have noticed he stopped. Green orbs followed the direction of where h was pointing at and she saw that it was one of the male students. He was sitting close to the back which was nice at least this way she didn’t have to worry about having to get past the bigger people. The only downside to sitting so far back was that she wouldn’t be able to see up front. "You can sit with me if you want... I'm going to go ask him if it's okay to sit over there." Nodding in response, Mai continued to trail behind Akira.

She admired the way Akira was able to just go straight up to the boy with ease. When she thought about it Mai wondered why she would have thought otherwise, it was just a boy talking to another boy. Polite as he was, Mai wasn’t sure how the other boy would respond and it wasn’t until she had gotten closer that she realized that not only did he make the chair he sat on look a little small but he was the young man she always saw at Paradiso’s. Mai frowned trying to figure out what his name was. She had heard him being called a few times while she had been there but since she wasn’t there to gawk at boys she never really payed too much attention. Eventually Mai remember something but it was only that his name started with an R.

"Go ahead, make yourselves comfortable. I don't own them." Mai bowed quickly to the dark haired student before sitting down. Clutching her bag close to herself, she glanced at him (Ryou) from the corner of her eyes. The possibility of him recognizing her was low since she wasn’t all that memorable. It wouldn’t surprise her if he didn’t say anything to her and to be honest Mai would be more than happy that he didn’t say anything. It was one thing to befriend such a pretty boy the first day of school but to be speaking with someone who might as well be a supermodel, Mai wasn’t sure she could take it.

While she had been deep in thought worrying about such a petty matter, Mai hadn’t realized what was going on in the front rows. She just barely heard him (Ryou) address her then again she wasn’t sure he had been addressing when he said girl. Mai looked up towards his general direction and hadn’t expected him to be leaning in so close. “Keep my job a secret." His voice was exquisitely soft and so unreasonably gentle for someone with that kind of appearance. Only giving a nod in response, Mai seemed to shiver despite the fact that her skin had turned a bright shade of red for due to him whispering in her ear. So, so close! Mai really wished she could just hide but there was nowhere for her to go.

Finally he leaned back into his own seat; Mai released a breath she hadn’t realized she had been holding. This was even worse than Akira taking that cherry blossom petal out of her hair. Never had there been a reason for anyone, let alone a boy, to whisper in Mai’s ear in such a way. No one ever thought of telling the incredibly timid and small girl their secrets even though she was probably the safest person to tell. It wasn’t like she had anyone to tell their secrets too and when she thought back to what he had just said to her, Mai wasn’t entirely sure as to why he wanted to keep it a secret. It was just a job after all.

It was then that Mai looked up and almost on cue Akira commented on what was happening. “Those girls trying to have a glaring contest with me and Mai-chan... fans your's by any chance? If so, I feel very sorry for you, dude.." Her eyes looked around quickly until they settled on the group of girls who were indeed glaring at her and Akira. Upon making eye contact with one of them, Mai visibly flinched and looked down at her hands. She wasn’t used to people glaring at her as she generally made sure not to get on anyone’s bad side. Is it because we sat next this senior? Mai risked a glance at the senior and blushed again. The fact that Mai was so fidgety and was completely red would no doubt give the other girls the idea that Mai liked this senior even though she knew nothing about him. From the way Akira had spoken she could tell that he was irritated by the girls glares, And just like Akira, Mai did feel a little bad for the senior. It must be rather troublesome to have to deal with so many people vying for his attention all the time.

“Oh . . . Welcome to Airdalen."

She hadn’t expected him to say anything to the both of them but she was almost glad that he had welcomed them. At least I know he holds no ill feelings towards for knowing where he works at. Leaning forwards a bit more so that she could be seen pas Akira, Mai gave the senior a small smile. “O-Ohayō” came the soft yet shaky response. It was the typical greeting her mother had taught her to use and Mai felt a little bad that she only now remembered to use it; even though it wasn’t the response she had intended to use. Hopefully Akira didn’t notice it. Shortly after Akira introduced himself and Mai opened her mouth to speak but wasn’t sure if she should. After all Akira did end his introduction with a question. They didn’t know his name yet.

================================

================================

"I have wondered
what they see in me
whether they imposed
their dreams on me or
do they make me their illusions
because, I can only be me."

================================█
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
███
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
██There was the commentary about a group of girls glaring at his current seatmates. His eyes traveled to where those people could be found. The girls immediately flinched and gave him some ridiculous waves and smiles when they noticed his gaze. He truly wondered what do they see in him. He was no celebrity who appears on movies, TV shows or do concerts. He was also not a model who do magazine covers and other things. He was a simple guy by his own standards whatever that could be.

"I feel the same way." Ryou noted as he released a sigh about it. He just gotten used to such events that he had taken it to a stride and just ignore it as much as possible. The only time he would show outright displeasure is when those idiotic exploits would harm or interfere with other people who should not be involved in their ministrations. "Don't mind them. If they make trouble, tell me." His voice has a definitive ring to it. There's always a weight to his actions whether it by words or not. That's why most people attributed that he is a sincere individual and had been admired for that.

That was then the white-haired boy (Akira) introduced himself, but paused due to what he could conclude as not knowing his name. "... Ry..." He stopped briefly as he remembered the Japanese way of introducing oneself. He should practice it since, he now lives here in this country and did fell in love with someone from here as well. "Giou... Giou Ryou." He looked at the two of them especially the small one who had been a customer at Paradiso who greeted him with a good morning. That's true. It is still morning isn't it?

"Nice to meet you too." His face did not hold any frown or was it cold. It's just that he wasn't the kind to smile so easily, but his features did soften which meant that he wasn't being arrogant or anything negative about it. "A..." He stopped again as he had gotten used to calling everyone by their first name. That is how it is at the stateside, but he had been told that it's normal to use the last name when one is simply an acquaintance or someone he just met. "Miyuu-san." Then, he directed his glance to the small girl (Mai). "Your name?" He remembered not knowing the girl's name even if she had frequented the shop he works at. He just assumed she was a grade-schooler doing chores for her parents, a good kid. He didn't bother taking her name and served the kid when it falls to his shift.

Thinking about it, he was going to leave school a bit early. He has work and he really didn't like the idea of being late, especially when he has other matters after it. He still has to travel to go and visit her again. He would need to make a call to his Aunt to say that he'll be coming home late, but he was getting a bit sidetracked from what was going around him. Actually, some of the girls approached him once more and began to ask if he knew the two people sitting near him since, they noticed him chatting the two up as they tried to get more information. He really didn't see the issue about conversing with anyone or why would they need to know about it. "I talk to whoever I want to, the same applies to anyone. If there's nothing else, excuse us. The program is about to start."

With that, he leaned on his chair and looked at the front ignoring the girls who apologizes and left, but not before leaving death glares to Akira and Mai. Ryou noticed that and gave a sidelong glance to his two seatmates. "I won't blame you two if you avoid me. I understand." Then, he looked at the front again, returning to his own solitary moment which he used to.

---

"I feel the same way."

Akira couldn't help but chuckle. Most men dreamed about being in this guy's shoes, so she found it a bit interesting that the only one she met who was living the 'every man's dream' wasn't really enjoying it at all, in fact he just verbally announced that he found it annoying. She truly did feel sorry for him. No one deserved to be treated like a shiny new zoo exhibit. She felt bad for the tall male student, almost as bad as she felt for real zoo animals.

"Don't mind them. If they make trouble, tell me."

Akira nodded her head, rubbing the back of her neck with a grin, "They don't bother me all that much, I find the glaring a bit funny, even though it's annoying that they're glaring at Mai-chan too.." She stated, thinking about the situation a bit more thoroughly. There wasn't a lot to talk about, and Akira was a social person, so she chose to actually rattle her brain a little and make conversation out of their situation.

"They're just jealous, at least I think so.. Which if they are, maybe if they weren't being so mean and superficial they might have been sitting here instead... They should be mad at themselves. You obviously don't like all that cheap crap they're doing and they don't even seem to have the decency to care.. I hate girls like that..." She stated and chuckled a bit afterwards. Her eyes shortly after landed on Mai and her smile grew to a big, friendly one as she began to speak again, "That's why I like girls like Mai-chan! She's quiet and isn't pushy or possessive." She chimed in a happier tone. Then she realized she might have been talking too much, or perhaps he didn't want to think about those cult-like fan girls of his? She'd never given that much thought and suddenly Akira felt bad for using those girls as a conversation starter, "Gomenasai.. I shouldn't have been so critical and mean when speaking about those girls, I let my temper get the best of me.. I didn't like seeing them glare at Mai-chan and lost it for a second.." She admitted in a sheepish tone with a light blush on her cheeks. She didn't want to get too carried away, because her temper once she let it get too hot, was harder for her to control. It was best for her to keep it on a tight leash at all times, not to mention badmouthing others, regardless of how much they deserved it, wasn't a good method of making friends, "Gomenasai..." She repeated to both Mai and her other companion (Ryou).

"... Ry..."

Ry? Akira thought to herself in a confused manner. What on earth was he trying to say? She was completely baffled, but did her best to conceal her confusion, covering it up with an expression of curiosity.

"Giou... Giou Ryou."

"Ohayo, Giou-San!" Akira chimed in a bright and energetic fashion after Mai, smiling at the small girl seeing as she beat Akira to the punch. She was happy that the girl was at least beating her at something, in fact she hoped that she could help Mai become more confident somehow, she just wasn't sure how she could aid her in that endeavor.

"Nice to meet you too."

He replied to The two of them and she looked to the front of the room again, then between her seating companions. So far she felt today was going rather well, it could have been worse, right? She knew that, and she was glad to have met two people as approachable as Ryou and Mai. She was lucky this far and definitely didn't want to ruin it. Though she was pretty good at doing that once her temper became evident. She hoped that wouldn't be an issue anymore..

"A..."

Immediately Akira's eyes landed on Ryou. Was he going to call her by first name? Please don't! She thought to herself. It would be the first time in almost four years that a boy called her by her first name, and she wasn't ready to hear it just yet.

"Blake-san."

Akira nodded in approval and shot a smiled at him, both of her eyes closed in order to hide her embarrassment and shock. So he was about to call me by first name, thank god he didn't.. I don't think I would have survived it.. I've gotten too used to this whole using your first name is rude or intimate crap.. she thought to herself, very relieved that he didn't. She was afraid her embarrassment would give away that she wasn't really a boy. She'd have to get that under control soon, or else she'd not be able to stay under cover for very long.

"I talk to whoever I want to, the same applies to anyone. If there's nothing else, excuse us. The program is about to start."

Akira noticed Ryou telling the girls who approached what is what, and she did her absolute best to avoid laughing at them as their flirtatious attempts failed. Thankfully she didn't actually laugh, and only had a smile plastered on her face, but she still felt bad for doing that. Then it registered in her mind that the announcements would begin again quote soon, Ryou brining it back to the front of her mind "I see. I promise I'll be quiet when it does since they might get mad and I'd hate to get you guys in trouble just because I had too much coffee this morning..." Akira admitted, wondering if she was taking too much. Ryou and Mai were both quiet individuals, she just wasn't sure if it was because she was talking a lot, or if it was a personal choice and they were fine with her yapping almost nonstop since she'd sat down..

"I won't blame you two if you avoid me. I understand."

"They don't intimidate me. I'm staying, Giou-San. What are they gonna do? Pull my hair?" Akira asked in an amused manner. Though she didn't admit it, she was worried about Mai.. If they touched her, Akira knew she'd lose it and probably do something she would regret.

BISHOP TRANDER

Bishop was in the middle of a giant heard of students funneling into the large school hall. He didn't really notice a specific face or person go by him amongst the crowd too caught up in reading the signs over each classroom door. <Ahuh.. So this is the building that the staff mainly works out of.> He sighed trying to get a feel for his new school. It was definitely different that any school he had been to in America or on a military base. From the uniforms to the layouts, he would have to see how things were when it came to assignments as well. But that was for later. The blonde shook his head reminding himself not to think too far ahead, that how you get discouraged. He took a breath and finally broke through the threshold of the school hall finding that since he walked so slow in order to not get lost, that many students had beaten him to get a seat.

"Aahh.... Ummm." He contemplated where to sit slowly walking down the left isle to find a seat. He first noticed a tall brown haired kid, sitting next to that blonde he saw earlier (Johnny & Arietta). But he didn't make a move to sit next to them, honestly not seeing the open seat. He moved further down the aisle beginning to think ins a vicious circle. <If I don’t sit now, more seats will be taken up. If the seats are taken up I’ll look weird. But what if I sit next to someone weird or mean? So I have to find a good seat! But if I don’t sit now-> On and on it went as he walked down the aisle until he reached the end and looked to the side and saw the purple haired girl from before (Yuuki) who yelled at him. He froze for a moment with wide eyes; if she looked to make eye contact he would turn awkwardly away and shuffle off <Like hell I’ll sit with her!> He didn't even take the time to notice the two other students sitting next to her (Shiori & Rhys). The American was having a bit of a hard time trying to assimilate in Japanese school, being spooked by a purple haired girl.

Bishop walked back up the aisle noticing some of the looks he was getting and decided to just take a seat anywhere. He opted for the right sight of the hall where there was a large gap between the row of seat in front of him, leaving the students sitting there with leg room. He removed his back pack and set it in his lap, looking around. To his surprise Bishop’s phone would ring, and he brought it up seeing it was a text from his dad; ’Hey son! Have a great first day at school. Always remember that me and your mother are proud of you and we love you very much.’ Bishop smiled at the message and replied back thanking his dad, but was interrupted by another male student. ’Hey, do you mind if we sit here? We’re trying to stay together.’ Bishop looked up seeing several junior class students looking down at him, their gazes curious seeing his foreignness. Bishop looked to his side seeing that the seats beside him were filling up and they didn’t have enough room for them all unless he moved. ”Ah… Sure-” ”Thanks!” Bishop spoke hesitantly wanting to be nice, but as soon as he began to speak they took his offer for an inch and made it a mile.

Slowly he stood up, once again seatless and sighed looking around clutching his backpack in his hand. It wasn’t like the others, some girls had cute charms or anime chibi characters on there’s. The same was for male students, though their bags were typically more conservative. Bishop’s backpack was an olive green, a military bag actually. He took off the American demarcations and insignias not wanting to stand out too much. However on his backpack were several pin buttons he acquired through his travels. He had 13 in all. Some were cities he’d visited or lived in, a few were companies that made products that he used for hobbies and some were music bands. All however were western, which was enough of a giveaway if one were to pay attention. Bishop now stood in near the center of the hall, looking back and forth to find an open seat. He’d take anything now…. Except if it was in front of next to that girl who scolded him (Yuuki). He spotted a seat to the rear of the hall and didn’t think twice about it. Bishop hurriedly went to take that seat just noticing a tiny girl sitting next to that seat (Mai). He looked down towards her automatically assuming she was a freshmen like him. He looked up seeing a silver haired, yet effeminate looking boy (Akira) sitting next to a super tall guy (Ryou). He gave the briefest of glances to them and went back to his phone to look over his text, and then hit ‘send’.

Bishop sighed and put his phone on silent, not expecting a text back and put his phone away. He fidgeted in his seat placing his unique backpack in his lap, only to look down to fuss with a few of the buttons lost in thought. Bishop was rather oblivious to what had happened before, keeping his head low with a troubled expression. From this point on, he figured that keeping a low profile on the first day wasn’t such a bad idea. He didn’t even think that suddenly sitting next to these people and not introducing would be rude, he was very use to the somewhat anti-social American culture. Bishop raised his head causing his blonde hair to sway gently, looking up only to see a few girls staring at him. He blinked and looked back not sure of what to do. He looked down at his uniform to see if it was something on him, then touched his face thinking maybe there was dirt or worse- a booger! When he found nothing, the freshmen heard laughing and just went back to looking down. Whatever it was, he had missed it like always. <This first day is not going to plan... I wish I was swimming.> He just hoped that the announcements would start soon so he could move on.

For whatever reason Mai felt a little bad about listening to the conversation. Sure she was sitting right beside Akira but to the small girl it seemed more like a conversation between the two of them. I shouldn't eavesdrop of their conversation. While she did feel bad for eavesdropping, she felt even worse for the fellow. To have to deal with all those girls must be difficult. Mai couldn't even imagine what it'd be like and she was sure she'd just end up fainting or something as a result.

"Your name?" Mai looked at him and bit her lip before giving her name. "K-Kon, M-Mai." Doing her best to stop the stutter, Mai gave him a weak smile. It was the second time she had introduced herself and she was rather proud. Most people overlook her due to her being mistaken for a middle schooler, and at its worst a grade schooler. When she thought about this very morning a few people thought Ren and her were father and daughter. In realizing the implications of that her face turned red again and she brought her hands up to cover her cheeks.

In that moment a small group of girls had approached Ryou. They began to ask him questions and her and Akira and she felt guilty for having brought this on him. Had they not sat next to Ryou maybe those girls would leave him alone. On second thought they probably wouldn't. She could imagine them trying to figure out who got to sit next to him which would cause more problems for Ryou. Maybe it was a good idea to sit here. It seemed Ryou took care of their presence with his next words. It certainly was true, he could talk with whoever he wanted to and it wasn't their business either. Letting out a sad sigh, Mai glanced at the girls as they apologized and left. They sent glares that could kill a person at Akira and her, sending shivers down her spine in the process.

There was very little going the way she had expected and Mai wasn't sure if she'd make any more friends. It wasn't like she had many friends at her old school. Most people teased her about her short stature which of course she took on the best she could. However the guys thought she was cute that way, along with her stutter, but they never told her in person. Mai didn't find out about this until a group of girls had confronted her about it. They had asked that she stop faking the stutter and actually act her age. That was when she came to realize just how annoying she could be because of her flaws. Once summer had started Mai cut her bangs so she could no longer hide behind them and her parents sent her to stay with her cousin.

Mai didn't hate them for it but she was a little sad that they sent her away. After staying at the shrine for a few days Ren had confronted her about her timidness and told her to try and overcome it. Almost every day he forced her into talking with not only him but the rest of the shrine. It was a good experience for Mai and she was thankful towards her cousin. Of course talking with people she grew to know and talking to complete strangers were two different things.

Coming back from her worrisome thoughts, Mai caught on the ending of their conversation. Like Akira she wondered what they would do to him. It wasn't like they could just beat him up or something, he was a guy after all. When it came to her, well that was a different story. Mai was a girl and girls could be extremely nasty. She only had to deal with it once and she was in no hurry to go through it again. There were stories of girls messing with other girls, and Mai had seen it on occasion. At the time she never thought much about it until those girls had confronted her.

Hurried movement brought her attention to the area on her right. Quickly looking up Mai saw that a blonde boy had sat down besides her, or rather plopped down. Their gazes just barely crossed but it was enough for Mai to look away. She knew she wasn't his focus of attention as he held a phone in his hand. Placing her hands on her lap, Mai couldn't help but notice the fidgety boy next to her which in turn made her fidgety. Maybe he's nervous too. Oh! I should say good morning right? Yeah come on Mai just say it. She repeated this in her head multiple times, practicing saying Ohayō aloud. Maybe just maybe there wouldn't be a tutter but she'd have to do it soon before the announcements came on. Come on! Say it! Just say it. Then it came out "Ohayō." Instead of actually be happy that she had managed to say it out loud, Mai was just happy that she didn't stutter.

Hopefully she wasn't too late in saying good morning to him. When Mai looked back at him she realized he was the kid from before. The one who had been playing music and later got chewed out by the purple haired girl. It was obvious that he wasn't from around here. The bookbag that he had was covered with various buttons that presented a western theme. Is he American? In noticiting this her curiosity rose but she couldn't bring herself to say any more.

================================

================================

"I have wondered
what they see in me
whether they imposed
their dreams on me or
do they make me their illusions
because, I can only be me."

================================█
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
█ ▌
███
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
▌█
██This Miyuu guy is quite talkative. It reminded him of his Aunt and his cousins. He was not bothered by it as everyone would initially think. Useless chatter or not, anyone was free to speak whatever is on their mind. It would be in his own decision whether he would react to any of it, but he would listen as much as he could. Just like how Miyuu was saying that girls like the small girl beside them is preferable.

It's not like he dislike girls like that in general. Ryou has high tolerance whether he knows it or not. It's just he didn't like the thought of them being overbearing to other people who simply wanted to talk or ask something. Jealousy... That was a normal feeling which he had felt on some occasions. If people like someone or something, the sense of monopoly is a normal thing. It's just that he knew how to portray it without making himself appear like some jacka**. It also seemed that Miyuu apologized about his one-sided argument towards the girls which was done out of his temper.

"It's okay. Just remember to always to take a step back. When you cross the line, there's no going back."

His voice held no resentment or superiority. He was simply speaking something that he has an idea about and sharing a thought, a word of caution to prevent certain bad things from happening. His eyes of silver looked on ahead, but it held a brief moment of sadness, then it was gone. He then gazed at the smaller girl who finally introduced herself as Kon Mai. The little girl was either having a speech defect or was timid.

He was betting on the latter one based on the encounters he had with her at the store. That's why it's nice to hear her voice from this perspective. He gave a nod to acknowledge that. "Kon-san, nice to meet you." He noted before his attention shifted back to Akira who spoke about being quiet to prevent trouble and something about coffee. "It's fine. Talk as much as you want..."

His eyes were now directed at Akira, those eyes which reminded one of the moon's mysterious light. "I like coffee." He added as a fact because the beverage was mentioned. There was no other reasoning behind it. Akira then stated that he was not worried about the possibility of the girls causing annoyance or trouble to him. Ryou wasn't sure if that was the wisest decision, but that was a nice thing to hear. His features softened ever so slightly. "Okay... thanks..." He then returned his attention to the front. He got lucky on having Akira and Mai as his seatmates. They were not troubling and annoying as well which was much welcome.

That was then he noticed some of the girls at front looking at their row. Most were looking at him in awe and in admiration, but when he caught them, they quickly looked away. He released a sigh at that and then found they were also looking at someone else. From the corner of his eyes, he noticed another new occupant who has blonde hair. At first, he thought it to be Aeon, but there were many differences on that part, so that was his bad. Then, he heard laughter which made the blonde boy lower his head head. In his judgement, it was due to embarrassment. It was then that Mai managed to greet the boy. That was a good start.

Ryou then noticed the boy's backpack with familiar pins. It has a western theme which he would relate to the states. Other than that, he noticed what the girls might have seen as peculiar. "Hey." He spoke that in his natural dialect which was English. His eyes gazed at the blonde boy. "There's a cherry blossom petal on your hair." He continued speaking in English. The way he spoke it was fluent and one could note that his tone remarked that he has been living in America for a very long time. The pink petal was sticking out against the yellow of the boy's hair. If the blonde-haired boy doesn't understand him and wasn't American, it was his bad then. "Don't take them seriously." He ended it at that and if the boy has no idea of what he was saying then, he would deal with it. Anyway for now, he looked to his front again, returning to his own solemn peace. until to the point it will last.

---