《Dragon's Regalia》


 Prologue - Genesis of Change

    Prologue - Genesis of Change


    Part 1


    Humans. They have always been known to be violent, greedy, warmongering savages. Waging wars as if it was their second nature.


    For more than 10,000 years, not once had a century passed by without a single conflict erupting. Their reveling on war and destruction for untold millennia had made them masters of their crafts. From fighting with crude, iron sword to high caliber rifles, every militaristic organization on the planet just keeps finding new and varied ways on how to destroy one another.


    Their unrivaled thirst for war was only equaled by their unparalleled curiosity.


    It didn¡¯t help that with the passage of time, human weaponry exponentially became more sophisticated and deadly as its focus shifted more in the efficiency of slaughter as the eras went by, and kept on advancing by leaps and bounds.


    By the time the 20th Century had come, the wars that humans waged among themselves had long since became a tool of dominance and were now just a tool of obliteration.


    To this day, there was only so little that technology could not do, in the face of unexpected adversaries.


    Ironically enough, their obsession in peace and unity is as bad as their desire for conflict. Being that, their method in achieving peace is to keep killing each other. Be it a war of patriotism for one¡¯s country, or a holy crusade for one¡¯s religion, the answer always returns to the death of those they deem to be lower than them.


    In the year 1939, just a mere 20 years after the First World War, most countries on the planet were already in a warlike preparation.


    But... On that fateful day...


    ...everything changed.


    One could argue that it was either ¡®God''s Blessing¡¯ or the ¡®Devil''s luck¡¯, but none could disagree that it was a miracle that their scrupulous preparation for wars, had preserved their lives on the events that soon followed.


    It all happened quite unexpectedly.


    As if a rip was torn in the very fabric of space, a void of pure darkness started appearing all over the planet.


    The Astral Zones.


    Its ominous existence alone caused tensions between nations¡ªthinking it was some kind of weapon developed by their enemies. Some religious groups, however; thought it was the work of their God, who had come to judge, and lay down his holy wrath, upon the sins of his arrogant creation.


    People feared the unknown, yes. But at the same time, they admire it.


    When those dark ellipses appeared, Humanity didn''t waste a beat, and meticulously began studying it. But no one knew what it was, or what lay beyond the darkness of those abyssal rifts. For six months, it remained dormant. Nothing could get in, and nothing went out. If anyone were to describe it, they would wholeheartedly say it''s the physical manifestation of silence.


    The eerie silence which kept everyone on the edge of their wits.


    Then, on the 1st of September, 1939. From deepest recess of the void. The first wave of terror¡ªthe enemy of humanity appeared: The [Xenos].


    Those who saw them could only gawk in fear and awe. People have known them to only exist in dreams and fairy tales, a stuff of myths and legends, a figment of one''s imagination.


    But one thing was certain. When the Xenos had arrived, everyone knew.


    The next war...


    Has begun.


    Part 2


    In the end, Humanity alone, by themselves, could not defeat the Xenos.


    Most of their guns could do nothing against their  impregnable defenses. Their prided fortresses easily fell; like sand castles against the waves upon waves of Xenos that flooded out from the Astral Zones. Even the most powerful ones ¡ª the [Dragons] ¡ª had singlehandedly destroyed countless cities in their rampage.


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    The overwhelming power and numbers had nearly cause society to collapse.


    It is often said, ¡®People are at their most united when they have something to fight against.¡¯ As such, Men, with their immeasurable pride, would easily discard everything away; setting aside old rivalries in the face of a common enemy.


    The key to their survival ¡ªfrom what historians would eventually call the First Xenodian War¡ª was a joint operation between major countries in creating a new experimental weapon in the purpose of defeating the Xenos.


    However, when they were finally able to create such a weapon, they were all too reluctant to actually use it.


    But each day that passed by had caused them precious numbers of lives. And there was no sign of the Xenos ever stopping.


    By the time tanks, bombs, and artillery have exhausted their ammunition, untold numbers of


    death were left from the maelstrom of chaos.


    For more than six years, they endured the onslaught, for sixyears, they persevered. They clung to the hope that this nightmare of a war will soon end.


    The ever growing danger they felt each day had finally drove them into desperation.


    And the results, was devastating.


    Given a day, the Xenos can wipe out a city with ease. But just this single weapon, had managed to destroy an entire city in mere minutes.


    Before this day, Humans had never truly feared what they have created. And now, they are more than terrified to even think of using it again. But sacrifices were needed to be made. There was no mistake that they need this weapon in order to survive.


    It eventually turned into a war of attrition. So when the number of Xenos had drastically started to decrease. They had declared their victory.


    Mourning their loss, they celebrated in triumph for those who died in battle, and finally moved on.


    But peace was but a fleeting moment.


    In the span of just two short years, the Xenos returned.


    Their appearance in Northern Eurasia had turned the northern-half of the continent into an eternal arctic wasteland. In Africa, they have brought extreme droughts upon the land, turning its rich jungles into barren desserts.


    And then they hit Asia. Then Central America, then finally, people learned.


    The war was never meant to end.


    It was just merely the beginning.


    At that time, Russian Neurophysiology and Biology Professor, Leongard Spiridon von Sigma, a leading expert in Xenos research had once proposed:


    ¡®We have always fought fire with fire. So to fight these monsters, we need to become one.¡¯


    His thesis on the matter was a subject of numerous, moral debates. But humanity was on the losing end of the war. They were all out of other options.


    After several, rigorous trials...


    Project: Pandora was initiated.


    With his theories, Humans have transcended the realm of men; managing to replicate, and weaponize the abilities of the Xenos, and use it against them. It was neither like the biological nor the chemical weapons they have created, but an entirely new arsenal, tailor made for the extermination of the Xenos.


    Humanity then started winning. They crushed the Xenos with full momentum.


    They were really good at it.


    In fact, too good. When the Xenos had no longer post any major threat, and with the Astral Zones reclaimed by each nation, the fear from the Xenos seemed to be nonexistent.


    But when the common enemy¡ªthat united humanity in times of crisis¡ªhad been purged, it was merely a matter of time till they point their new found power at each other, and restart their little games of wars.


    But this time...


    It was bound to be more chaotic.

 Chapter 1 - Ryouken Spirit Academy

    Chapter 1 - Ryouke Spirit Academy


    2nd September, A.D 2045 / Tokyo Japan


    ¡°Ahhh~ Dammit! That old bastard.¡±


    A low, grumbling voice could be heard in the train. Anyone would easily notice who the voice belonged to, but no one minded the slanderous tone of the young man who said it. Standing just a few steps besides the door, Yukikaze, Kazuki; wearing a crisp white blazer over a blue shirt, and grey pants, was muttering to himself with an annoyed expression in his face.


    There was no need to stand. Even though it was ¡®Rush Hour¡¯, the seats in the cart he rode on were mostly vacant. But his current mood made him too preoccupied to even notice.


    Although the clear morning sun was shining brightly over the autumn sky; creating a calming and tranquil atmosphere, the ambience inside the train compared to the outside was like the difference between Heaven and Hell.


    Why, you might ask?


    Well, that was because inside the train, which should be full of people ready to brave the new day, was instead filled with several, unconscious bodies that was sprawled out all over the floor.


    Needless to say, it was Kazuki''s handiwork that created this macabre-like scenery.


    Even after fighting¡ªor rather one-sidedly beating up those people who; appearance wise, were far more intimidating than him, his foul mood still lingered around his body causing those who were spared from the physical torment, to stepped back in hopes of not getting in his way.


    "...haa¡ª Guess I have no choice but to play along with this ridiculous farce."


    Kazuki sighed deeply. Taking out a piece paper from his chest pocket, he looks at the content again that stated his enrollment into Ryouken Academy.


    "But seriously, what the hell is that old fool thinking?"


    Ryouken Academy was one of the several, internationally approved vocational institutions on the country that, trains its students to use their special abilities and mold them to professional levels.


    [Tamers] were people who could replicate the abilities of the Xenos.


    By manipulating the latent energy in one''s body known as [Sigma], and melding it with the [Spirit Particles] in the atmosphere, a Tamer can imitate how the Xenos use their powers and demonstrate its effects.


    Before the war, people used to call them by several names; Witches, Magicians, Alchemist, Shamans, or even Magus. The strongest among them, could make a Nuclear weapon look like a fire cracker in comparison to their overwhelming might. Even the weakest could fight the Xenos on their own, and triumph.


    Nowadays, National Militaries and Law Enforcement were considered obsolete without the aid of Tamers. As such, a talented Tamer is regarded as a national asset, and a powerful weapon to a country.


    During the First Xenodian War, the large fatality rate was considered to be caused by the lack of manpower in the Pandora Project; with Tamers being highly indispensable to be normally deployed in the front lines, and was only dispatched to eliminate the Xenos that could not be defeated by conventional weapons.


    To prevent further tragedies from being repeated, the [Tamer Program] enacted under the [Genesis Treaty] of the UNSC¡ªUnited Nation Spirit Council¡ªstated that,  it is made semi-mandatory by law that, children at the age of twelve, who have awoken their ability to use Sigma, were required to enroll into one of the special institutions that were established to nurture future Tamers in developing their power for the sake of the nation¡ªin other words, getting drafted into the country''s reserve army.


    Ryouken Academy was one of such institutions.


    In the 25 years of its establishment, Ryouken Academy has been one of the leading facilities in the country that had its graduates become a center of news and praises for their achievement in the combat against the Xenos.


    When the train finally reached the station, Kazuki promptly alighted the cart with his bag hanging over his shoulder, not minding the perplexed stares he received on his way out. Seeing a new student wasn''t all that rare. But looking at the aftermath left inside the cart he got off was bound to surprise on-boarding passengers.


    After descending a flight of stairs, he walked around for a few minutes before arriving at the main gate of the academy. Here, he was greeted by two full-scale size wolf sculptures that were made out of fine white marble. On top of the gate, it bared the crest of the academy¡ªwelded perfectly on a silver metallic arc:


    [RYOUKEN SPIRIT ACADEMY]


    Glancing at the surrounding, he entered the gates while following the path that was paved with layers of bricks. He couldn''t help but comment on that, the school courtyard was more befitting to be called a park.


    The flowers were well tended, the lawn was properly trimmed, and there is even a large marble fountain with a just as large majestic-looking white wolf that is used as a center piece. There were even some vending machines and several benches with students happily chatting with their peers. It was really hard to describe the tranquil scenery other than that of a peaceful academy.


    But that was merely a front.


    Such irony


    Kazuki chuckled at the thought of that notion.


    There was no mistake that, this academy and the others like it were just another military facility to cultivate new soldiers, in order to elevate the nation¡¯s prestige to the rest of the world.


    Coming back to his senses, he hastens his pace to reach the building that was located east of the marble fountain. There, he arrived at a long corridor. Looking at holographic information directory board on the wall, he searched for the specific room of the academy director.


    While browsing the directory, he also noticed that the academy had various activities and events planned out.


    From Club recruitment to School Festivals, it did a good job maintaining its masquerade as an enjoyable, fun-loving educational facility. But this, on its own¡ªwas also another way to help maintain the high morale of the students, who will eventually face the terror of the Xenos in the hell known as war.


    Acquiring the information of the room he was looking for, he proceeded down the hallway after going up some flight of stairs.


    Walking down the wide corridor, he noticed that all of the room in the 4th floor was either related to the student council or, the student affair committee. But there was one room that stood out from the rest.


    And here, Kazuki stopped in his tracks.


    In front of him were two, white, synthetic metal doors decorated with golden runic patterns. Each door was engraved with the crest of the school; A great white wolf that was biting on to a long silver sword.


    Just as Kazuki was about to knock¡ª


    "...there is no mistake. We''ve double check them, even triple check our data. Delhi, Moscow, Beijing, Anchorage, even Rapa Nui are all reporting the same anomalies from their sectors. Rikuo, you, of all people should know the significance of these events..."


    "Are you certain about this? If those places are really acting up again, I''m afraid it could only mean one thing."


    Two voices could be heard from beyond the door. They weren''t particularly loud, but Kazuki had some pride in his exceptional hearing. The first voice was somewhat distorted by static, but it was a clear, masculine tone. The second one was firm yet mixed with anxiety.


    "The Council has already approved. We will to take immediate actions once all the preparations are complete. I''m currently on my way to Washington to discuss our findings with General McKnight. At the meantime, you should remain on high alert, just in case something comes up. I''ll contact you for any update that we can get."


    "I hope that this is just a misinformation."


    "I also wish we are wrong. But we cannot take chances... Take care, my friend¡ª"


    Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.


    "Farewell."


    Soon, silence befell the room for a brief moment. Then¡ª


    "Fuu¡ª looks like things are moving faster than we had anticipated. I hope that this all just a slight miscalculation. Now then¡ªwhy don''t come in and take a seat. Kazuki-kun?"


    After hearing the modulated voice of the old man, the door slid open revealing a vast and spacious room. The floor was covered with a dark brown carpet, while the walls were decorated with paintings and a bookshelf filled with all sorts of books and files. Placed in front of the large window was a large oaken desk filled with a stack of documents. In the center of the room, there stood a rectangular glass table with white ivory legs surrounded by black leather sofas.


    Taking a look inside, there was only a single elderly man present in that large room.


    Sitting on one of the chairs, he was quietly drinking a cup of freshly brewed tea while indulging himself to its fragrant smell.


    This person is Senjirou, Rikuo; the Academy Director of Ryouken Spirit Academy, and a veteran Tamer who have fought in the 3rd Xenodian War.


    His long, silky white hair¡ªwhich could make some girls jealous¡ªwas neatly combed back over his head, and his white beard reached down to his chest. He also had a rimless reading glasses strapped in his neck. The only thing missing was a wooden staff and you can easily mistake him for wizard character from a famous fantasy movie.


    But instead of a wizard''s robe, he was wearing a formal white business suit with a blue shirt and red tie. His entire appearance made him look more like a Mafia Don of some crime syndicate that would give you an offer you can''t refuse.


    "So you knew. I was sure that I was trying hard not to get noticed." Kazuki sarcastically said while maintaining a straight face.


    "Ha. I maybe old, but I haven''t grown senile yet, boy. Besides, you didn''t even try to hide your presence"


    Rikuo jested. Although, Kazuki did well in concealing his presence, it was merely on the level that regular people wouldn''t notice him from the outside.


    "Now, don''t just stand there. Come in and take a seat."


    Kazuki then strode the room towards the table. Taking the seat in front of Rikuo, he placed his bag just besides him.


    "Would you like Green tea, Red tea, or Oolong? We also have some assortment of sweets."


    "I''d like the red one¡ªbut enough with the pleasantries old man! I didn''t come here to have a tea party with you. Now tell me, how did that old bastard convince you into helping him with this stupid scheme of his?"


    Kazuki did a quick change of attitude¡ªfrom nonchalant playfulness to dead serious¡ªwithout missing a beat. His seriousness had a compelling air to it. Realizing that Kazuki was showing a solemn expression; Rikuo immediately fixed his care-free attitude in order to show his just as serious personality.


    ¡°You haven¡¯t change. Still the sharp-tongued, rascal that I used to know, eh? But to answer your question¡ª¡±


    Rikuo adjusted his seating posture. Fixing his glasses and crossing his fingers in a steepling position, he looked at Kazuki with an intimidating aura.


    ¡°No. He didn¡¯t convince me. Although his request was difficult, it wasn¡¯t impossible to accomplish. Yet, he still used that one favor I owed him a long time ago as a bargaining chip. Seriously, he really has grown old to be wasting such important favors for things like this. ¡°


    Rikuo slowly reminisced the days he had with Kazuki¡¯s Grandfather during their time in the front lines of the 3rd Xenodian War 45 years ago.


    ¡°It¡¯s really hard to believe that we used to call him the ¡°MAD DRAGON¡± back in the days. Maybe growing old has finally softened him up.¡±


    ¡°I seriously doubt that.¡±


    Kazuki, on the other hand, was just listening to Rikuo¡¯s words earnestly while giving away a few sarcastic comments.


    ¡°Well, enough of war stories. Since he entrusted me with his favor, I¡¯ll do my best to grant his wish to the best of my ability.¡±


    ¡°So, I really don¡¯t have a choice in this, do I? Fine, I¡¯ll play along with this for a while. But don¡¯t blame me if a student or two, get sent to the hospital at a regular basis.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about that, unlike other academies, Ryouken has a good number of people that can be worth your attention. But please try to restrain yourself from over doing it.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll try¡­ if I can.¡±


    ¡°For you, trying is already enough of an assurance. Well, with that said¡ª¡±


    Just as Rikuo was about to finish his words, the door slid open to reveal a beautiful young girl who was wearing the academy uniform.


    Her platinum blonde hair was dazzling as her appearance, while possessing a firm and proper demeanor that says she has been raised as a prim and proper, elegant lady from a well-established family. She also had captivating purple eyes that could steal a man¡¯s heart with a single glance. With her smooth white skin, a pair of long beautiful legs, a thin slender waist, and an ample bosom that was satisfactory in shape, her figure was truly full of feminine charm.


    ¡°Pardon for the intrusion Director Senjirou. But we have finished the preparations that you have ordered.¡±


    ¡°I see. You can leave the documents at my desk as usual. And good timing. Kazuki, let me introduce her to you. This here is Ichirou, Himeko. Ryouken Academy¡¯s current Student Council President. Likewise, this is Yukikaze Kazuki.¡±


    "It¡¯s nice to meet you, Yukikaze-kun. As the Director said, I''m the current Student Council President of Ryouken Academy. I hope we get along well. You can just call me Himeko.¡±


    "Well, Himeko-senpai, I''ll be in your care."


    Reaching out to take the hand extended to him, Kazuki returned her handshake while still sitting on the sofa.


    ¡°Well then, Kazuki-kun¡ª¡°


    As Rikuo was speaking, a thin, silver blade suddenly came crashing down over Kazuki¡¯s head.


    Full of killing intent, it had the intention to cut someone down in half.


    With his sharp reflexes, Kazuki managed to stand up and block the blade with his right foot with blinding speed while releasing a tremendous amount of dreaded aura.


    All of that was done in single moment.


    ¡°Hey old man, do you usually attack your new student that entered on their first day?¡±


    Kazuki said those words with an apathetic yet care-free voice while his foot still hung in the air blocking the Directors¡¯s sword.


    ¡°Ho¡ªgood reflexes. I see that you haven¡¯t wilted down a bit.¡±


    ¡°Oh give me a break. You held back way too much when you used that stick of yours.¡±


    ¡°Kukukuku. Is that so? I was starting to wonder if it¡¯s because you¡¯ve started to neglect your training that¡¯s why your grandfather sent you to my academy. Now I see that¡¯s not the problem.¡±


    Putting down his cane and sheathing the blade, Rikuo laugh boisterously. Kazuki did the same, and took down his foot while laughing along with the Director¡¯s antics.


    ¡°With that settled, Himeko-chan. Do you mind showing him to the main building? You can drop him off with Akihiro-sensei at the faculty lounge.¡±


    ¡°There is no problem. I have something to attend to at the faculty along the way.¡±


    ¡°Excellent. I¡¯ll leave him in your care.¡±


    ¡°Well then, please excuse us.¡±


    Himeko bowed deeply at the Director before leaving the room, while Kazuki just shrugged his shoulders as he waved goodbye and then walked out of the office.


    <hr />


    Hello Everyone, this BionicFrost.


    Thank You for taking the time to read my story. This is my first time submitting a fic. I don''t really know what to do with all those random info in my head since it''s hard to fuse them into a tangible paragraphs. But I will try to release chapters as fast as possible.


    If you have any comments or constructive criticism, I am all ears.


    <hr />

 Chapter 2 - Blazing Storm

    Chapter 2 - Blazing Storm


    The pleasant sound of the elevator chime rang out in the corridor, signaling the arrival to its destination. As its doors slowly slid open, it revealed the two passengers aboard. From there, Kazuki followed Himeko leisurely, with quick strides¡ªmaking their way to the building right across the courtyard.


    Ryouken Academy was fairly large, enough to be compared to a campus of a suburban university. The Main Building, the Club Activity Building, and the Gymnasium; This three infrastructures made up the majority of the Academy. The Main Building composed entirely of the classrooms, faculty rooms, and the cafeteria. The Club Activity Building¡ªwhere the two have came from¡ªhoused the clubrooms, experiment rooms, and the library. There were also major and minor annexes adjacent to the two structures for miscellaneous uses.


    And lastly the Gymnasium, which is the main attraction of the Academy.


    The gymnasium is, in and on itself, special. Based from the ancient Roman Coliseum, it was used for live entertainment, military exercise, and combat practice. It even have two basement levels for extra individual training rooms, that are used for mock battles between students.


    In this generation, Gladiatorial Competition had become a well known sport to the public eye. With the sensational popularity it gained, it caught the attention of greedy businessmen and major bureaucracy, turning it into a hit entertainment industry.


    Having walked half-away across the courtyard, Kazuki was still in a contemptuous-mood. Although he did try to hide it, his disdainful aura was leaking out from his body.


    "Is there something wrong Yukikaze-kun?"


    "Huh? Oh, it''s nothing. Don''t worry about it."


    The calming voice of Himeko made him return to his senses. Realizing where he currently is, it wasn''t wise to cause a scene, collecting his thoughts, he immediately fixed his attitude.¡®I give up, there''s no point worrying about it now.'' He repeated those words in order to cool his head. But he still felt agitated; not knowing the reason why he was sent here, is one of them.


    After calming down, he finally took notice to the increased amount of student in the courtyard¡ªalong with it, a large number of gazes. Is it because he is with the beautiful student body president, or was it because he is a new student. Considering the date he was sent here, and the person he was with, it was not hard to figure out how he unintentionally garnered some attention from the surrounding students.


    Being a school mostly for the elite, about twenty percent of the students where children of rich businessmen, celebrities, or well-known politicians. It couldn¡¯t be help that there would be some individuals among the onlookers that would show pretence or conceit because of their social status.


    ¡®What a pain in the ass¡¯ Kazuki however, scratched the back of his head, ignoring the constant stares he received as they walk further to the Main Building.


    Reaching their destination, they arrived at the faculty lounge. Some Teachers and Instructors were busy with compiling papers; others were conversing with their fellow teachers, while the rest were either relaxing or occupied with some students.


    ¡°Now then, if there is anything you need, please don¡¯t hesitate to ask? I¡¯ll go tell Akihiro-sensei that you¡¯re here. So wait in this room for a moment.¡±


    Himeko then parted ways with Kazuki; leaving him inside the room, just next to the faculty. After a few minutes of waiting, a young-looking female teacher had come to pick him up,while holding a bundle of folder in her hands.


    Kazuki thought that she was quite the talented young lady, to already be a teacher at her age. But no matter how much audacious Kazuki is to most people, he did not like to ask a woman her age.


    She had long chestnut-brown hair, that flowed down to her back. Her emerald green eyes shimmered like two polished gems. With her wheat-colored blouse and matching skirt, it perfectly showed the curves of her slim and sexy figure. She also had a pair of oval glasses that gave her an even more feminine charm.


    ¡°Hello. It¡¯s nice to meet you Yukikaze-kun. My name is Akihiro Hinami, your homeroom teacher.¡±


    Hinami; who introduced herself as his homeroom teacher, had a bright and positive smile in her face.  Looking at her, Kazuki was somewhat surprised. He did not think that there would be someone with such a personality to be hired in this facility; which deals with death and violence on a regular basis.


    But looks can be deceiving. If she was able to get employed in this line work, that just means she had a level of competence that could be said more than satisfactory.


    After Kazuki introduced himself, the two exchange pleasantries and immediately made their way to the classroom. The Main Building had five levels. The first having the faculty office and the large cafeteria, the second, all the way to the fifth, had the classrooms. The freshmen classrooms were located on the 2nd floor, while the 3rd and 4th floors had the classrooms of the juniors and seniors respectively. After going up a few sets of stairs, they stopped at a certain room that had a holographic signboard labelled: Room 301 / Class 2-1


    ¡°OK, this is our class. I know it might be hard for you, a new environment might bring various hardships, but I think that you will get accustomed to it in no time. So please relax.¡±


    Kazuki was slightly taken a back. With such heartfelt and gentle words, he could do nothing but give out a faint smile.


    "One more thing. If there''s anything you don''t understand, just ask without reservation. Okay, let''s go in."


    Saying so, Hinami opened the door and moved into the classroom. Kazuki followed as soon as she got in. When he stood in front, lookong over the entire class, all their gazes were focused on him all at once. This was the inevitable fate of a transfer student


    First of all, some of those who observed him with little to no interest, immediately came to a conclusion that, he is the rough delinquent type. With his unkept appearance; long hair, untucked shirt, and loose tie, he was not far out from that image.


    Those who did have some intregue about him were easily discouraged, just by the fact he was a guy. They probably expected a cute girl; beautiful face, great figure, and a cheerful and friendly personality. Yet, they got a guy who was from it. He started losing everyone''s interest one at a time.


    Amongst them, there was a girl sitting in the back, next to the window.


    She really stood out; like a blooming flower in the middle of the deep winter. Her blazing red hair shone like scarlet fire and her ruby like eyes gave off a mesmerizing stare. When Kazuki and her eyes met, she immediately averted her gaze.


    He lost another one.


    Meanwhile, Hinami, standing besides the teacher''s desk, displayed his name in the large digital screen behind him, then gave a short introduction.


    ¡°Good Morning everyone! As you can see, today we have a new classmate joining us. Please try to get along well with each other¡ªYukikaze-kun, please introduce yourself."


    Usually, transfer students would give out a lengthy self-introduction, in order to get a good first impression from their classmates. But he did not felt the need to. Giving out a faint smile, Kazuki decided to disregard all the theatrics and just wing it.


    ¡° ¡ªit''s quite a hastle to introduce myself, but whatever. For starters, my name is Yukikaze Kazuki. I transferred here for some unknown reason, I''m as uncivilized as you can get. Vulgar, brutal, savage, and a hedonistic personality; all that I need to be the worst scum on the planet. I also posses a talent of pissing people off. And just so we are all on the same page, I couldn''t care less about anyone in this room. Nice to meet you all."


    "¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­"


    Silence permeated in the entire room. Even Hinami, who was lively a while ago, now had a dumbfounded expression in her face.


    "WHAT THE HELL DID YOU SAY?! YOU BASTARD!!!"


    "HOW DARE YOU LOOK DOWN ON US!"


    "SAY THAT AGAIN! I DARE YOU PIECE OF TRASH!"


    As expected, the uproar of complaints exploded, garnering their complete animosity. There are those who saw his little declaration as a form of jest. But they were the minority.


    Watching their ballistic reactions from the front, Kazuki was thinking.


    (Haa, they sure are so easy to read)


    Well, he did start the whole ordeal, but... he really didn¡¯t imagine that their pride were that shallow that could be easily shattered just like that. He let out a disappointed sigh.


    "¡­Eh? Ah, is... is that all Yukikaze-kun?"


    "Yep."


    "Uhm...OK then, let¡¯s start homeroom."


    On the other hand, Hinami was still flabbergasted for a few seconds at the thought that she ended up with a very troublesome student.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The bell tolled, signaling lunch break, after a couple of classes.


    After Hinami left the room, the commotion from earlier continued, with Kazuki as the eye of the storm.


    It was only natural that, transfer students are the center of attention, but in this case, Kazuki was being avoided like a plague, due to his little speech earlier. The stares of enmity, curiosity disgust, and a plethora of other emotions had immediately flooded the room.


    "Tch. That guy seriously pisses me off! Who the hell does he think he is?!"


    "He''s getting too full of himself. Maybe we should teach him some manners."


    Not minding the volume of their voices, they openly declared their position compared to Kazuki to be far above in the social hierarchy. Since he did start the current situation, it would be unwise to start a commotion and just brushed it off as worthless noise.


    "Aah~ so boring."


    Discontented with the current mood, Kazuki gave out a long yawn before standing up from his seat, then making his way outside the classroom. Before he could get far from the main hall¡ª


    "Excuse me, you''re the transfer student, Yukikaze Kazuki, from Class 2-1, aren''t you?"


    "Huh? What do you want?"


    Standing behind him, there was a petite girl. Her golden-blonde hair was slightly curled up, giving her a sense of nobility. With a radiating demeanour, she had that presence of what women from high social standing usually gave off.


    "Hey! Watch your mouth. Don''t you know who you are tal¡ª"


    "That''s enough Masaki. He''s still new around here, so it can''t be helped if doesn''t know."


    "As expected of Aoba-sama. You are considerate to even lowly commoners."


    Behind the girl named Aoba, were a small group of students. Judging solely by their attitude towards him, they also exuded the same aristocratic presence similar to Aoba. And by the way they spoke to her, it seems like Aoba was someone of high importance.


    Kazuki however, was more focused on the pins they had attached on the left collars of their blazers.


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    (A wolf head with two crossed swords. So they''re 3rd years huh?)


    To distinguish students by their year level, the academy uniforms had included specific set of pins; 3 Swords for the Seniors, 2 for the Juniors, 1 for the Sophomore,  and a lone wolf head for the Freshmen.


    Seeing that they all had 2 crossed swords on their pins, Kazuki was not mistaken by his analysis.


    "I apologise for the rudeness earlier, My name is Itsuka Aoba, of the the renowned Itsuba Clan and a one of the top ranking ranking students of the Academy. For your own good, you better listen to what I have to say in order to survive this academy. Be greatful that I am lending you some of my time to explain things. First of all..."


    (The Itsuka Clan. If I remember correctly, they''re that prestigious family line of Tamers that has fought in the front lines of the Japanese Army, since the 1st Xenodian War)


    Kazuki was confused. Why would someone like her, go out of her way just to see him? As far as he was concerned, no one should know his true identity, and he didn''t told anyone of his origin either.


    (No. It''s unlikely that someone from here would know about ''that''. Then that just means...)


    The image of an old man he so despised, suddenly floated in his mind.


    (THAT SON OF A BITCH! I''M GONNA KILL HIM WHEN I SEE HIM!)


    Flaring with anger, Kazuki cursed that man who was the reason for all the things he is going through. But he did not show that unsightly look in his face. Meanwhile¡ª


    "...are you listening? To put it simply, I am offering you a chance to submit yourself and become my subordinate. Naturally, I assure you that you will have a wonderful life in this academy. Your answer is of course, yes, am I right?"


    "Not interested." Kazuki walked passed her before saying those words


    For Kazuki, just hearing her first few word, was enough for him to know what type of person she is.


    (A haughty, impulsive idiot.)


    Well, she did say she was part of the top ranks in the academy. So, she must at least be capable of backing up her claims.


    "What? Hey, wait a minute, you¡ª"


    Before Aoba could turn her head, Kazuki was long gone.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª


    The morning sun was nearly at at its peak, but the autumn wind released a cool gentle breeze creating a lukewarm weather. On top of the roof of the main building, Kazuki was leisurely laying down on the roof while looking over the vast number of clouds in the sky.


    (Ahh~ what a perfect time for a nap)


    Seeing that nobody was present; other than himself, Kazuki enjoyed the peaceful scenery before deciding to return to class.


    The spot he found had a nice view that came along with it. Looking over the horizon, he had the perfect vantage point of the whole academy. The large gymnasium in the east, the Club Activity Building im the north, and the Main Gate in the west. There were also the surrounding forest that covered the entire academy.


    Just the sight alone was nothing to scoff at.


    When he was about to close his eyes, he noticed a voice that he heard not too long ago.


    "So, have you changed your mind and decided to accept my offer?"


    (The hell... Don''t tell me she still hasn''t given up on recruiting me?)


    "Haven''t I made myself clear? No matter what you say, the answer is still no, Aoba."


    Huh? What?


    Before Kazuki could reply, he realized that the question was not directed at him. Looking down from his position, he could see Aoba and her lacky surrounding a lone girl. The tension between them were close to erupting.


    (Isn''t she that girl from my class...?)


    The girl he saw had her scarlet hair fluttering in the wind. She was wearing the same uniform as Aoba; grey skirt, white blazer, and a blue shirt with a red ribbon. But what really stood out from her, were the two metalic gauntlets in her arms.


    Aoba as well, had her aura changed from when Kazuki met her. In her right hand, appeared a long, narrow blade with a guard that covered the entire hilt; a rapier.


    "My patience is growing thin Akiyama Mizuki. This is the last time I will ask you, Submit yourself to me, and become my subordinate."


    "And this is the last time I will say it, I refuse."


    (Mizuki?)


    That named jolted his memories. While he was trying to remember what it meant, the tension between the two had reached a breaking point. From his current location, Kazuki could feel the blazing haze coming from those two girls.


    This wasn''t a figure of speech. They were literally on fire. Flames were emanating from their bodies. Golden fire was appearing from Aoba and her rapier, while the girl named Mizuki was releasing a scarlet inferno from her body and gauntlets.


    (Materializing their [Regalia] just like that. They''re really serious huh?)


    Regalia¡ªthis are the weapons forged from the very soul of their creators.


    This was one of the pride of humanity. The weapon that helped them fight off the Xenos. Regalia are the physical manifestation of a Tamer''s very being, crafted from their Sigma, a crystallization of their ideals.


    "Masaki!" Aoba shouted "Don''t let anyone interfere. This girl needs to be taught a lesson."


    "Shut up and bring it on! I can take all of you by myslef."


    "You''ve gotten in way over your head, little girl. I''ll show you just how different we junior are compared to you sophomores."


    The raging aura between the two had intensified, causing Aoba''s flunkies to step back.


    When the pressure slighty halted, and after a few seconds of silence¡ª


    The two girls dashed forward simultaneously. Clashing their weapons against one another, it created a strong shockwave. It continued on for a few seconds; they parried each strike, evade every lethal blows, they were in a deadlock of attacks and counters.


    "I''m impressed. To think that you can keep up with me. Lets see how you can handle this one then..."


    Aoba was the first to break the stalemate. With a slash from her rapier, a crescent-shape flame shot out from her blade. The flames burned everything it came in contact with, but that was only limited to what it hit. Such a precise skill was considered to be high class.


    "Eh?!"


    Mizuki was caught off guard, but she managed to evade it by a hairsbreadth. Adding a large amount of sigma into her limbs, she increased her speed and mobility by enhancing her physical capabilities.


    Dodging Aoba''s attack, Mizuki took the chance to counter. From her enclosed fist, she made a punching motion, then released an intense fireball at Aoba.


    "Eat this!"


    "Naive."


    Seeing the fireball approaching,  Aoba was completely calm. With a piercing movement from her thin blade, it hit the fireball in its center, and it dispersed into countless particles. She didn''t stop with just that. From that motion, a flame spear shot forth from the tip of her sword  with tremendous speed.


    "Like I''m gonna fall for that!"


    Mizuki saw through it.


    Quickly taking a stance, she then sprinted directly at the flaming spear. When she was close enough, she shifted her weight to the side, and then...


    "HAAAAA!"


    With a shout, she literally punched the flames out. Snapping the lance-shaped blaze into pieces. Her counter did not end just there. After extinguishing the flames, she immediately went for Aoba in close quarters.


    "What?!" It was Aoba''s turn to be surprised. "Impossible?!" She didn''t think that Mizuki would be able to dodge that last sneak attack, let alone counter it.


    "You crafty little wench." Infuriated, Aoba readily fixed her blade to meet Mizuki''s incoming fist.


    Just when the two were about to clash¡ª


    "How boring."


    A sudden feeling of dread had enveloped their minds.


    Their survival instincts screamed out: "I have to get away. I have to move back." and went in full throttle to divert their path. At that moment, a torrent of raging wind had separated the two of them.


    Everyone present, were surprised. Even Mizuki and Aoba, who were already using their heightened senses, did not notice his presence.


    "What? How did you... D-Did you finally decided to accept my offer?" Aoba, still in her upperclass tone, yet mixed with a sense of fear, asked Kazuki the same questions she gave Mizuki.


    "What the hell are you talking about? I was here since you started yapping about subordination. But to answer your last question. Hell no."


    Such a rude remark was guaranteed a retort. But it was clear as day, that Aoba had lost some confidence when trying to talk to Kazuki. But for the people around them, they did not know what was transpiring at that moment. The entirety of that terror-inducing pressure was focused on the two of them.


    "YOU BASTARD! HOW DARE YOU SPEAK TO AOBA-SAMA LIKE THAT!"


    Infuriated by the lack of respect,  Masaki and the other who followed Aoba, immediately surrounded Kazuki with an intense murderous aura.


    "W-Why are you here?" This time, it was Mizuki who voiced out her thoughts.


    "I thought that you needed a hand."


    "I-I don''t need it."


    "How cold. And here I was trying to show my goodwill once in a while." Kazuki spoke as if everything was normal. He was not, at the least, bothered by the constant negative air that was directed at him by the people who have released their Regalias.


    ¡°Aoba-sama was benevolent enough to ask you to humble yourself to her, yet you trampled on her goodwill. Now your butting in on someone else business? Get lost, you piece of...¡±


    "MASAKI! DON''T...!"


    Without warning, Masaki attacked Kazuki and sent him flying¡­


    Is what Masaki thought would happen. But Kazuki simply leaned to the left while dodging Masaki''s attack, then sent Masaki flying through the wall with a powerful reverse kick.


    ¡°Did you say something? Sorry, I wasn''t listening."


    In an instant,  Masaki was out cold


    With a mocking tone, Kazuki shrug his shoulders and raised his arms in a exaggerated fashion. Everyone who saw it were stupefied. Even for Aoba who knew Masaki was in disbelief. She have known Masaki wasn''t weak. But this one guy made him look like a pebble on the road.


    ¡°What... what did you... what did you do to Masaki...You son of a¡­!¡±


    Losing her composure,  Aoba was filled with fury. The level of her aura had escalated far beyond what it was a moment ago. She no longer had that graceful way of speaking,  and now,  just spouted random curses to Kazuki. Forgetting that feeling she had, moments ago.


    "Oh...She finally snapped. Guess its time to clean up the mess."


    As he said those words¡ª


    "OK, that''s enough. Let''s leave it as that."


    ¡ªa domineering clap reverberated in the area. Looking back, they saw; The Student Council President: Ichirou Himeko.

 Chapter 3 - Reunion

    Chapter 3 - Reunion


    "OK, that''s enough. Let''s leave it as that."


    Upon hearing that domineering clap, accompanied by an authoritative feminine voice, everyone immediately halted what they were doing.


    "...?"


    "P-President...?!"


    "...I-Ichirou-senpai!?"


    Looking behind them, they saw a female student and several others standing behind her. Wearing red armbands on their left arms, they were neatly lined up, creating a blockade to the entrance of the roof.


    Focusing their sight on the female student that stepped forward from the group, they saw the Student Council President; Ichirou Himeko. She¡ªas far as Kazuki could tell¡ªwas showing the same indomitable aura, when he first met her earlier.


    "You girls... really, how many times has this been now? Haven''t I warned you two before, even if the Academy has sanctioned the engagement in personal duels, unapproved matches between students are prohibited under the school regulations?"


    "I-Ichirou-senpai... This isn''t... um..."


    "No excuses Itsuka-san. You''re already a 3rd year, aren''t you? You of all people should know better than that. Please stop fighting immediately and release your Regalia. You as well, Akiyama-san..."


    Reprimanding everyone with her definitive will, Himeko gave the two girls a stern lecture. Her tone of voice did not have that much severity in it, but the inviolable air around her had prevented anyone from refuting¡ªKazuki, as well, did not argue about it.


    Her words were firm, yet compassionate. Without an ounce of grievance but with a slight hint of fear, Mizuki promptly complied to Himeko''s warning and released her Regalia¡ªturning into metallic dust, then vanishing in the wind.


    "Just this once, I will overlook this incident. Since nobody; aside from Masaki-kun, is injured, please return to your classrooms."


    "And things were just about to get interesting. Fine, it was fun while it lasted.."


    Kazuki shrugged his shoulders with indifference, before raising his hands to show compliance.


    (Well, I guess I did over do it.) Kazuki mumbled. He would did not mind who would have won between the two, and only acted out of impulse.


    (Now that I think about it, why the hell did I jump in for?)


    "Wait a minute!" Aoba yelled persistently "We are not done here yet." Voicing out her displeasure, she pointed out to Kazuki with fiery eyes while the golden flames that enveloped around her had gradually grew stronger. But¡ª


    "Do I need to repeat myself again? Itsuka Aoba-san?"


    "...!?"


    Aoba was frozen in place. Seeing Himeko holding on to her shoulders from behind, she was shocked to the point that it prevented her from even moving her mouth. Feeling that oppressive presence at close proximity, her short stature felt even smaller when she look directly at Himeko''s smiling face.


    (When did... she get behind me?!)


    That mischievous smile Himeko gave out, sent shivers down her spine. The gentleness awhile ago was still there. But she could feel a dreadful air, slowly coiling around her throat.


    "So, Itsuka-san. Do you still want to continue?"


    "Uh... I-I understand Senpai. I-I''ll stop."


    "OK, that''s good. Now, is there anyone else?"


    (How did she... I didn''t even sense any movement from her...)


    Not minding Aoba''s stuttering voice, Mizuki watched in horror as she looked at the situation.  For the 2 years she has attended Ryouken Academy, she knew the president was someone strong, but to scare Aoba out of her wits was beyond her expectations.


    (So she''s able to use "Ghost Step" at that level. Impressive. I guess not everyone is all bark.)


    Meanwhile, Kazuki was silently ruminating on Himeko''s ability. Ghost Step was a basic skill, although not complex, but it was still difficult to master. By infusing the entire body¡ªbut mostly the limbs¡ªwith Sigma, and creating a thin layer outside the body, it was possible to move like a ghost to hide ones presence while moving at a tremendous speed.


    (...well, not like it''s anything special.)


    Ghost Step was a basic skill. In fact, it was the basic among the basics. Because Xenos were extremely sensitive to Spirit Particles and Sigma, it was required for a Tamer to blend their aura to the surrounding in order to get close and land a fatal hit on a Xenos. Being able to demonstrate it like how Himeko used it, just shows the user high level of proficiency in controlling the Sigma in their body.


    "Since there is no one else... Hondo-kun. Sorry about this. Looks like there was not any need  to bring the Disciplinary Committee along, but please take Masaki to the infirmary."


    Saying so, Himeko called out to the person that was easily recognizable among the people that were lined up.


    (Damn, he''s huge) Kazuki muttered (So this is the head of the Disciplinary Committee: Goriki Hondo.)


    Standing up straight, he was about a full head taller than Kazuki; around 185 cm. That alone didn''t make him big. But rather, those broad shoulders, thick chest, and rippling muscles¡ªthat stood out from his unifrom¡ªgave him, a heavy sense of presence that could not be ignored. It didn''t help that the zealous pressure coming from Hondo only added fuel to the fire of his overbearing aura.


    "There is need to apologise. We, of the Disciplinary Committee, are responsible for the safety and order in the academy. Alright you lot, get moving and bring him to the infirmary."


    """"""Roger, Chief!"""""


    His low yet crisp baritone command, was imbued with a sense of authority. Anyone who heard his voice had the compelling feeling to comply. Without wasting a second,  they all immeditely went into action with clear haste.


    "Guess I''ll be leaving since there is nothing else to do."


    "P-President, I''ll be leaving as well."


    "I see, very well... please try not to get in any more trouble."


    While Kazuki unceremoniously waved his hand before going his way. Mizuki unintentionally gave a curt bow then hastly made her way to the door.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª


    After coming down from the rooftop, Kazuki made his way towards his classroom. There were still around 10 minutes left before break time is over. Knowing this, he decided to loiter in the hallway to kill some time.


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    "Hey, wait up."


    Suddenly, Kazuki was called out from behind. Looking back, he saw Mizuki twirling her finger around her long scarlet hair. Her height was average for a girl her age, around 164 cm, and her matching colored eyes had a glint of anxiety in them.


    "Um... Can I talk to you for a minute?"


    Kazuki agreed without hesitation. He was planning to talk to her eventually in order to confirm something in his mind. After bringing him to a secluded area, Mizuki looked around once more to make sure no one was around. Although she was the one who brought him to this secluded place, Mizuki remained silent for a good minute.


    "........."


    "So, what did you wanna talk about?"


    "Eh! Ah, that''s right..."


    Mizuki was startled for second before regaining her composure. She was at a loss. She called out to him in order to talk to him, and even brought him somewhere private. Yet, she couldn''t even say a single word before Kazuki broke the awkward silence.


    "So, um... the thing is, I...?"


    (This talk is going nowhere. Might as well ask her myself)


    Seeing Mizuki fidgeting for quite sometime, Kazuki had an idea. Deciding to initiate the conversation, he spoke out.


    "Let me guess. After not seeing me all this years, you want to ask me out on date?"


    "Yeah, that''s right... wait a minute! What are you making me say? Kazuki you idiot, you stupid idiot! Wh-What''s with you all of a sudden?"


    Kazuki gave out a light chuckle. Seeing Mizuki''s reaction with her cheeks flushing red, Kazuki had confirmed one thing. (So she really is...) That overly familiar insult had cemented his guess. Mizuki was the same. She wasn''t sure if he really was the person she have known since childhood. But that familiar way of teasing her was the one thing she remembered the most about him.


    "Fuhahahaha!"


    "Stop laughing, you idiot!"


    "Sorry, my bad... I was just happy for some reason."


    "Ahh! I can''t believe this... How did we even became friends?"


    "No one wanted to become your friend because you were bullied, remember?"


    "You didn''t have to remind me that!"


    Kazuki said jokingly. However, it wasn''t a lie. Mizuki remembered perfectly well the day they had met.


    Back then, Mizuki had a hard time making friends her age. Because of her meek and shy personality, the kids in the neighbourhood always made fun of her. Sometimes, they would even tease her enough to the point of crying.


    But on that day, it was when she met him.


    "I remember that time when those guys took your favorite toy. You really were a crybaby back then. Then a knight in shining armor came to your rescue."


    "And who might this chivalrous knight be? You ended up beating those guys so hard, I was also blammed because of it."


    "I regret nothing!" Kazuki pridefully said "But, you know... compared to now, you really have changed. I don''t see that meek and shy girl anymore. You really did keep our promise."


    "Wh-What are you saying, idiot?"


    Hearing Kazuki''s words with a sincere smile, Mizuki''s cheeks had turned red, to the point of blending with the color of her hair.


    (He remembered our promise? I thought he''d forgotten it... Wha! What is this hot feeling in my chest. It''s not like kept that promise because of him or anything. That''s right. I only admired him because he was brave. Yeah, that''s it. No special reason.)


    While busy talking to herself, Kazuki was simply observing her with a wry smile.


    "That promise huh?" He muttered soflty.


    ("Hey Kazuki. Lets promise, when we see each other again, I''ll become as strong as you.")


    Those were the last words they said to each other before meeting again.


    "Hey Kazuki."


    "What is it?"


    Finally getting released from her trance-like state. Mizuki looked at Kazuki with bewildered eyes, then asked him in serious tone.


    "Why did you stop my fight with Aoba?"


    "Nothing much... just that, I was bored seeing the two of you play with fire like idiots. So I decided to spice things up."


    "What the heck does that suppose to mean..."


    "Well, if I said it was because I am worried about you. You''ll just get mad."


    "Sigh...You have changed as well huh? Usually, you''d pick a fight with anyone without caring about those around you."


    Mizuki gave a deep sigh while trying to hide her blushing face from Kazuki. She already lost count on how many times her face lit up into bright red.


    "Hmm... well, to be honest, I didn''t really care who would have won between the two of you. I could have finished the two of you without trying. But seeing you fight, I realized how much effort you put into changing yourself. I think living with your head held high knowing that is fine."


    "I take back what I said earlier. You haven''t changed at all."


    "Didn''t I say something really nice just now?"


    Mizuki puffed her cheeks and pouted.


    "But you know Kazuki, you''re really strong, you know that right?"


    Mizuki inquired. Being someone weak and timid, she trully admired Kazuki''s unyielding will and care-free personality.


    "I always hated myself for being weak,. But ever since that time you helped me, I tried my best to get stronger just like you. Yet, no matter what I do, it doesn''t seem like I am close to even getting on your level."


    "That''s because I''m special." Kazuki arrogantly yet sarcastically commented. "But you should do what you want. What you can do and what others can achieve is nothing to be worried about. Its  is all up to you. People can easily change to be like someone else. But being yourself is the greatest change you can achieve."


    "That''s kinda lame. You know that?"


    "I didn''t know anything else to say."


    Both of them laugh full heartedly before hearing the bell for the next class.


    <hr />


    Hello! This is BionicFrost


    Firstly, I apologise for the short chapter. Drama isn''t really my forte. And been busy with school works, so expect slow chapters at least once a week ... or more.


    Once again, Thank You for reading.