《Phantom Opera: White Soliloquy》 Detained White, cold, sterile silence. Suddenly broken by two intermediaries. With a crash the heavy cast iron door flung open, as if the interlopers claimed ownership of the room. An air of arrogance and power permeated from the two investigators. One, a hulking behemoth of a man, every descriptor of the man was large; from the freakishly overbearing torso to his vice-like hands. The other tall and slim, a cold logical reasoning echoed from his eyes entrapping all that came into his presence. His left hand held a black briefcase, quite sturdy and no doubt holding all manner of tools indispensable for interrogation. Both men bore their overwhelming pressure onto the only resident of this lonesome cell. The resident of this chamber paid no heed to either. No physical or emotional stimuli seemed to break that stupor. His visage an iron maiden entrapping all emotion and feeling. This wasn''t a result of their interrogation or the methods with which they attempted to pry the truth. No, this was an inherent trait from times long gone by. So, so long the prisoner himself finds them hard to grasp. The sensory deprivation and introduction of narcotics into his system had a significant effect on some of his cognitive functions. Needless to say, the time of day, month, year. Nor the reason for his containment, none of it mattered. At least not to him. He was only concerned with one thing. Control. "Wake up, sunshine. We''re gonna'' continue with the usual." The cruder of the two men looks down at the apathetic prisoner. Speaking with a hint of delight in his voice. His face shown few abrasions due to the investigator''s peculiar methods, but malnutrition and use of "extracurriculars" had a noticeable effect on his visage. Dimming the usual brilliant gold of his irises and causing discoloration in the skin. His body beneath his battered clothes were another story, housing many wounds and bruises from the more private beatings of the investigators and other members of the guard. The auburn locks usually styled framing his face now stuck matte-locked and slicked to it with sweat and whatever other fluids the guards had the pleasure of dispensing into the buckets. As countless times before, the prisoner shows no concern, just slowly lifts his head from the cold table he was sleeping on and looks at the man. No anger, hatred, fear, sadness. Just a resigned look on his face as if it were someone else''s problem. He took on the mantle of an audience member and proceeded as if he were watching a film, not a participant of this interaction. "Lt. the usual." The slim, taller officer ordered the hulking mass to his bidding with a calm voice. Clearly demonstrating the pecking order. This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version. The boy noticed that these two officers in particular were quite difficult to deal. They approached with clear intention. Their caution was also off the charts. Never had they referred to each other by name or directly touched the prisoner, they always acted through an intermediary such as tools or wearing gloves if the situation called for it. The gargantuan officer took a quick step forward followed by an impossibly fast front kick, causing the prisoner to go flying backwards out of his chair and lay rather deflatingly on the ground after tumbling a few rounds. Pieces of the wooden chair splintered and fragmented all around the room as if a grenade had exploded. "We''ll have to replace that again... Still, I''m surprised you''re even resisting at this point. It''s impressive if not a bit annoying. All in all, it''s still utterly pointless." He allows the silence to permeate through the room for a moment. No-one was allowed to talk until he expressed that desire, that much he made abundantly clear. "How long must we continue doing this same song and dance?" "I''m getting rather bored of it, boy." "..." "Still not going to talk?" Knowing the prisoner wouldn''t be defeated even with that show of force he understood the silent resolve of the prisoner''s unrelenting will. "Lt. get him off the ground. Apparently, he finds the floor to be more amusing than our discussion." "Sir." The hulking mass approaches the boy and lifts him from the ground standing by at the edge of the table. "No matter, any words you might''ve said are just a bonus. Sign this. I shouldn''t need to explain what it is." Taken out from the briefcase of the calculating investigator was a legal document attributing all of a heinous list of crimes in the prisoner''s name. The reason for his systematic persecution. The boy stood in silence. The same response given to basically any ultimatum the officers gave to him. Well, any input from the investigator''s results in the same. Although today they were especially persistent. Even after drowning in silence for a minute or two the officers were non-plussed. However, that is all the more telling. Now more than ever they need results, they can''t dally anymore. And this is a weakness that the boy would never miss. An opportunity to take a portion of control into his own hands. So long as you have chips on the board, you can still play. So long as you remain alive, victory is a possibility. Know yourself and your enemies and you need not fear the outcome of a hundred battles. The enemy has shown their first hand. The boy has lost many things across the span of his life. But. Himself? His essence? That is the one thing he will never forget. He is incapable of it. No matter the circumstances or techniques, even technology is incapable of separating his own individuality. The machinations and hubris of man had created a beast capable of felling a thousand foes on completely different battlegrounds. After such events the beast would never lose itself, how could it? No, it wouldn''t. But losing sight of the world? Losing sight of the very essence of humanity? Those are all but inevitable. Now then ladies and gentlemen I would like to propose to you a game. A grand game with which the very fate and balance of this world will come into question. Two champions, accompanied by their own parties. Their past, present and future intertwined in a spiral. Parallel, the distance can be bridged, and they may meet. Yet, fate prevents marriage of their ideals. Harsh circumstance surrounds them both, yet they will rise up above their respective challenges. Eventually they will come head-to-head in a clash against their fates. One is a fool, championing justice. Lacking in ability, but determination and grit in spades. A true struggler. The other a facade, a fool in fabrication alone. Lacking in all but ability. A beast, a monster conditioned for excellence and victory. Nothing else. Which of these fools will surmount the other? I can hardly wait to see... New beginnings "The next destination is Yongen-jaya, I repeat the next stop is Yongen-jaya. Please ensure you prepare for departure." A listless voice perpetrates through the intercom, relaying to the passengers the next destination of the train. Thank goodness for that, I hate crowds, and this train has been as cramped as one might expect for a city transit service. Within a minute or so I can finally be done with this hellscape and find my lodging for the next year. Reaching into my pocket I slowly retrieve a letter intended for the owner of a caf¨¦ Leblanc who will be my acting guardian for the next year. Some situations have occurred during the last year, to be honest it threw me for a loop. I feel like the last few months have rushed by me without any input on my behalf. Regardless, this is the predicament I find myself in. All that can really be done is to accept it and move on, right? Despite my internal monologue lamenting my future prospects and the situation I find myself in, the world cruelly continues moving forward, with no empathy for the distress I feel. It was at the last second, I realise the doors have opened for the precise intention of disembarking passengers. It would be a travesty if I were to miss my stop and have to make my way here yet again. Thinking as such I swiftly sift through the train busybodies and find my way onto the train terminal. Passing through the turnstile, utilizing my train card to gain passage, and walking up the steps to the Yongen-jaya district platform I find the quaint entrance to the backstreets of Yongen-jaya, the supposed location of my new home. Upon a brief undertaking of the scenery, I find several interesting sites set before me. The first is a second-hand goods shop almost like a car-boot or yard-sale. Truly some questionable items were on sale here, in fact a lot of it seemed to be scrap and the like. I mean this could be useful for perhaps artists or tinkerers, but I hesitate to find the use the average consumer would have for this shop. Surely this is a questionable business venture. Although, the owner is elderly. Perhaps ownership is more of a hobby, and they don''t intend to make much profit. Or perhaps it''s a dastardly money laundering plot, isn''t that right old man!? Seeming to notice my gaze in his direction, the shop owner directed the most heart-warming smile imaginable in my direction. Nah... never mind the face of this man is too wholesome for that to be the case. Or that''s what you want me to think, huh? Don''t think you can trick me so easily buddy. Giving a simple nod in retaliation to the man''s oppressive happiness my eyes take in the other interesting areas of the backstreets. Just past the scrap shop there''s a smoking area and batting cages up some stairs to the right and just past that there seems to be a normal grocery store. At least this means I can easily grab ingredients to make meals. The road then branches to the left, following it down shortly I find a clinic to the left of me and a decrepit looking movie theatre to the right, although a flier to the right stipulates opening in the near future. Hopefully, it opens soon I wouldn''t mind enjoying movies nearby, plus I doubt they would have many other customers. I may even have the theatre to myself. Seeing as the clinic is also nearby, I won''t have to get medical aid or check-ups by transit into the city centre. That also means I''ll have to register with this practitioner, that can wait for later though. Turning about face and directly gazing at the supermarket this time I opt to follow the original pathway coming further down the street seems to be just residential buildings. Turning right I see the nameplate for Sakura, the family name of my new caretaker. Outside the property is a delivery driver muttering to himself. "Nobody''s answering, I suppose he''ll be at the caf¨¦ like usual then." Although I could make conversation with the delivery driver and easily find the caf¨¦, I deliberately chose to avoid contact and continue wandering the backstreets, I''ll find it in my own time. It''s definitely not because I''m afraid of social interactions with strangers, yep definitely just feel like having a stroll... Yeah, that''s pathetic. Whatever, let''s just scout the rest of the useful places before turning in. Doubling back down the street and passing the grocery store once again, I swear the clerk probably thinks I''m losing my mind. This time I opt to turn down the road perpendicular to the scrap shop and walk a dozen paces or so before noticing a compartment to the right of me. Upon further inspection the area seems to house a laundromat and public bathhouse. I did worry of the issue about bathing facilities and laundry, in smaller congested living areas these public facilities tend to be more readily implemented to save on space and expenses for some. I was rather worried about the washing facilities, that worry only seems to have expounded upon this revelation. It''ll be my first time using public bathing spaces for a prolonged time, I have a few memories of using similar spaces in the past, but they were not enjoyable experiences. In fact, I''d much rather forget the pain-inducing headaches brought about by those times. Almost as if goading me, I heard the phantom voice of a snakelike figure in my mind. Hah, please leave me alone seriously. I didn''t come here to get tormented. This is just bringing down the mood, let''s move on for now. Leaving the washing facilities behind and travelling further down the street exposed nothing of interest but a few vending machines and a few salarymen loitering about in the smoking areas. Nothing of interest to be found here it seems, suppose I should finally enter the caf¨¦. Incidentally the caf¨¦ was opposite the washing facilities which at least meant ease of access to the facilities, a surprise boon, but I''ll take any wins I can at the minute. After taking a deep breath and mustering the courage necessary, I slowly push open the caf¨¦ door and make my entrance into the store. Almost immediately the owner of the establishment looks towards my arriving figure. "Ohh... yeah, I forgot that was today." Upon noticing the lamentation of his face, the elderly couple (the only patrons at the time) finished their orders and bade farewell to the owner. "So-Chan we enjoyed the coffee, thank you for listening to our rambling as always." A smile graced the elderly man as he made his way to leave. "Think nothing of it, I''ll see you next time, yeah?" Such a response came from him. "Of course." With that the elderly couple made their exit, scuttling past me to the cafe door. To which I presented the open door to them and held it for their departure. "Thank you, young man. Do take care of So-Chan for me, will you?" That seemed to be the nickname of the owner, I suppose he must''ve explained the situation somewhat to this customer. Otherwise, he should''ve just assumed I was another customer. Seeing no reason not to comply with the request I opted for a simple "I''ll do what I can, sir." "Hoh hoh, good lad." With that the couple seemed to have finally left the store and I can resume my business here. "Goddamn, 2 hours for a measly cup of joe. Seriously... what a pain." "Umm... I''m Ayanokouji Kiyotaka, I''m assuming you are Sojiro Sakura. I have a letter I''m supposed to deliver to you explaining the situation." Saying as such I reach in my pocket and retrieve the letter addressed to him. This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience. "Yeah, I got the basic situation. He explained briefly over the phone a while ago." Saying as such he accepted the letter from my outstretched hands and carried on. "Look, kid I don''t want to get overly invested in your business and I''m sure you don''t want to get too nosy in mine. All I have to say is you asked for the situation by getting involved with others'' business, it''s always a risk at the end of the day. But, setting your life choices aside for the moment, we have to establish ground rules for the duration of your stay." His thoughts on the situation weren''t something that deeply affected me, so I opted to ignore that statement. On the topic of ground-rules though, this is crucial when living with someone for the first time, it''d be easy to step on each other''s toes otherwise. Especially if the new tenant in question is a dependent which you have to pay for, after all its likely Sojiro Sakura''s caf¨¦ will become the business which allows me to eat and sleep for this extended vacation. "First order of business; You''ll be staying in the attic of this shop, meaning you''ll have to make do with the space you have but also have to clean up the place. Obviously, also make sure to not disturb the customers, after all I''m trying to run a business here. The reason you aren''t staying at my place should be abundantly clear by now, no?" Honestly, I''d question his choices if he were to let me; in all aspects a stranger with a problematic background suddenly intruding upon his house and home. So, its within expectations that I''d be staying here, it also gives me plenty of privacy. Which is another blessing. Seeing no issues, I simply replied "Of course." "Then next we should come to terms with my expectations of you during your time here." Saying as such he continued on. "Seeing as you''ll be dependent on me for the time being I expect no trouble coming back on me from school or outside the shop, help with work around the caf¨¦ at a moment''s notice and generally no funny business from you, is all that clear?" "Crystal." Sending a small grin my way "Good, then final item on the list." Reaching into his back-pocket he pulls a small black diary out and presents it to me. "You are to make a diary and record your behaviour and actions for the next year, they mentioned it''s an effective way for rehabilitation and a necessary step to complete your probation." I see, I mean I suppose I''ll just write whatever comes to thought at the time. I''ve never tried journaling, my interest piqued I decided I might as well comply. Well, not that I really had much of a choice in all this. But it''s important for people to at least have the illusion of choice, perhaps that''ll make the current situation easier to accept over time. "That''s that then, with business out of the way. I''ll acquaint you with the room you''ll be staying in." Turning on his heel, Sojiro made towards the stairs at the back of the shop and begun ascending, not even waiting for me to acknowledge him. I silently followed after him and also ascended the stairs. Each step and shift in weight atop the stairs seemed to send a creak through its wooden body. I thought they might collapse on the way up them. I should be careful whenever I come back for the time being. Entering the confines of the attic I''m met with an otherworldly stench of dust and possibly mould? Something smells bad in here and there''s no wonder why, with a single glance around the room... It''s a mess no matter who looked at it. If you asked 10 people whether this was hospitable grounds for the human species, they''d all say no immediately. Not to mention the clutter of objects, seemingly being stored in this room, no doubt a reason to allude to the congested dust and grime. The surfaces of the desks, shelves and dresser are all caked with dust, clearly lacking attention for what seems like years. A second inspection of the ceiling shows plenty of cobwebs and spiders, at least the roof looks secure though. So, I don''t have to worry about it caving in and burying me tonight, although that may actually be less painful than the cleaning that''s no doubt in front of me. "So, what do you think problem-child?" Sojiro directed a pointed look towards me as if asking me to criticize the conditions offered here. "It''s pretty messy, huh?" Seriously, look at me like that all you want, anyone would say the exact same thing. "Haah... yeah, you''re not wrong. Got some guts at least kid, although I suppose I shouldn''t be surprised given your record. Well, you can whine about it as much as you want. But it''s probably a better use of your time to get to work instead. It''s getting late after all, you at least want to have a bed tonight, right?" Sojiro finished his dialogue with a smirk pointed right at me. This guy... Internally drowning a sigh, I instead opt to solve this nightmare and get to bed. "If you look in the cabinet under the stairs it has the bathroom and should be stocked with all the cleaning supplies, you''d need for now." Not sparing another glance at me, he heads down the stairs and continues managing the caf¨¦. The sooner the better, thinking as such I trudge down the stairs and make for the facilities. Opening the door and finding a small cabinet on the left-hand wall. Opening it I find some cleaning supplies; surface cleaner and detergent, a mop, a bucket, duster, rubbish bags etc. Stuffing most of it in the empty bucket and making my way upstairs I shortly store the items needed and rush back down the stairs to fill the bucket. The best plan of action would be to do things in the most optimal order where I won''t have to retrace steps. Therefore, first I''ll remove all obstacles such as rubbish or clutter about the room and set them apart in the necessary bags. I''ll use the rubbish bags and set aside all similar items so Sojiro can have a look through them later. Then I can dust the surfaces and get rid of the cobwebs as well as use the surface cleaner on the desk, shelves, and dresser. Finally, mopping the floor. The hardwood flooring can be mopped, I just need to be vigilant of the amount of water used. After that I can make the bed and get to sleep. Although, it might take a while it should be mostly completed today. That''s what I''ll aim for, then the menial tasks can be done on a needs basis. Resigning myself to cleaning the room for the next couple of hours I immediately started drowning out the noise of the surroundings, anything unnecessary to the current goal faded away and my penultimate objective was always in mind. That very unenticing bed has my name on it, just you wait!!! - 4 hours later - I got to the caf¨¦ around 5-6 PM, meaning it was now likely 10 PM and what feels like half of the active hours of my day have been spent merely shuffling around the confines of this room, cleaning the dreary space to at least make it hospitable enough for a person to live here. Which thankfully I can say has been accomplished for the most part. Of course, there are a few more things to do. Like clearing these bags, however I''ll need Sojiro to go through the items to throw or keep what he needs. For today what needs to be done has been done. Thinking as such I quietly sit down on the bed that I just made having a brief respite before preparing to sleep in anticipation of tomorrow. "I gotta say you got more done than I thought you would, it''s actually cleaning up pretty nicely huh?" Without taking notice of my apparent fatigue Sojiro appeared atop the stairs and inspected the room while I did agree with him, I''d still much rather never do this again. Oh well, it''s already done now suppose I should quickly make arrangements to sleep. Having a similar train of thought Sojiro also started to speak. "Well, it''s time I close up shop and get gone. Make sure you also get some sleep we''ll have an early day tomorrow for your induction at school. Can''t have you wasting my time with your listlessness." Ye of little faith, huh? Well, I want to get some sleep anyway, this day has been full of new experiences. Not all of them great, nonetheless new things tire me out. Simply nodding in Sojiro''s direction I make for the bathroom downstairs and grab my things preparing for bed. Sojiro had already left the building and by the time I was able to slip into the covers of the welcoming bed, the phone downstairs begun to ring. Thinking it''d be best to at least answer it in Sojiro''s stead I make headway downstairs again. Quickly answering the landline I''m greeted with the same gruff, hostile voice I accustomed to just today. "Kid, flip the sign of the shop to closed for me, will ya? I forgot to do it on the way out." I could joke around or refuse at this point but seeing as it would just be a pain to do so I affirmed him and finally get in bed which has been calling out to me for the latter part of an hour now. Setting an alarm on my phone on the odd chance I sleep too long. Just as I was prepared to set the phone to the side, something catches my eye on the screen. A strange looking application, a black and red symbol with an eye in the middle. This isn''t something I''ve downloaded before; it isn''t an app which has updated and changed icon either. In the first place I don''t really use my smartphone for many applications anyway. Tapping on the application doesn''t seem to do anything either, strange. I''ll just delete it instead, doing as such and then quickly tossing the phone off to the side and finally embracing the sweet comfort of sleep. A new beginning awaits, huh? How exciting, my heart races despite the painstaking efforts taken to avoid this. Plenty of challenges may arise. But in every challenge, there is opportunity for greatness. Not a predefined greatness, not goals given meaning by others. But a goal all of my own, life worth living solely for my sake, derived by my own formulae. It''s hard to hide that anticipation. Shujin academy "Hurry up and finish your breakfast or we''ll be late, kid." Sojiro gruffly mumbled to me whilst I finished devouring the last of the delectable yet strange breakfast dish that was his signature curry. "That was amazing. Strange for breakfast, though." "Oh, shut it. It''s been my staple for years now." A look of reminiscence crossed his face quickly replaced by the usual stern scowl. "C''mon, need to shut the shop so we can get this done. God, what a waste of my Sunday..." You were just going to work though, right? Sojiro followed me out of the door and quickly locked it, turning the sign to display closed and stepped around the corner back to the road where I had seen the delivery driver yesterday. This is his house, its quaint. Suppose you don''t need much more. Wonder if he lives alone... "Do you live alone?" "...None of your business kid, just get in the car. I don''t usually allow guys into my passenger seat. But today is an exception." Guess I''ll just shut up then. Traffic was abundant throughout the city, as it pretty much always is. Slowly but surely, we made our way to my new school. Shujin Academy. Eventually pulling into the visitor car park and entering the reception. "Excuse me, we''re here for induction. He''s a transfer student." "Yes. Name, please?" "Ayanokouji Kiyotaka." "Indeed, I believe the headmaster and your homeroom teacher are already awaiting you. Let me show you the way." The short woman walked from behind the registration office and within a few turns directed us to the Head''s office. Knocking on the door to alert the awaiting teachers. "Yes. Come in." "The transfer student Ayanokouji Kiyotaka and his guardian are here." The receptionist gracefully bowed, quickly making her way back to her station. "I see you''ve joined us. How have you found the grounds? I''m sure it''s quite modest in comparison to your old school but please make yourself comfortable." Not the response I was expecting. Does ANHS really carry this much influence? Or is there something else? Also, not the appearance that I was expecting. The only thing I could liken it to is if Humpty-Dumpty were made out of slime or jelly instead of the titular egg. Maybe if I tanned a marshmallow and put clothes on it I might get a close enough replica. Who I assume is my homeroom teacher also looked side on to the headmaster, pondering the sudden change in demeanour. Her stern face should''ve wasted her otherwise delicate features, but honestly it just made them better. Big brown eyes, short-frizzy hair, small, cute lips and the grown body of a woman. Is something wrong with me? All that time with Chabashira might have awakened something in me. I''ll just hope this one doesn''t have the same penchant for trouble. "I understand the conditions. Should something happen in the class whether you are related or not, that is out of my control. That''s your promise right, Headmaster?" "Indeed, though I wouldn''t worry about that much." "Still, why me? Surely another teacher would be a better fit for this." If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. "Yours was the only class with a spare seat. Plus, I''m sure an upstanding man able to get into that prestigious academy will behave. Right?" "I have no intention of misbehaving." "See, you''re worrying about nothing. Kawakami-sensei, please give him the student ID." "...Here. Meet me in the faculty office at school tomorrow." I reach for the ID lay on the table. A small flyer lay underneath, crumpled up and just barely out of sight. Just before I reached for the ID it seems she also noticed. She wanted to reach for it yet is reluctant. Hesitating, clearly worried. I''ll just take both. She looked at my face, searching for any betraying emotion that might show I was aware. My face allows no such expression. "Well then, are we done here? I need to get back to the shop." "Of course. Ayanokouji I might look favourably on you here and I''m sure you have no intention to cause trouble... But should any arise be aware that I won''t be able to help you. Your current circumstances are only known to a few staff members, and I''d like to keep it that way. I trust we both share that sentiment?" A veiled threat. Or maybe just a harshly worded warning... Doesn''t matter much either way, I just plan on laying low. Enjoy this new life. I think the first step to that is rather close. "Thank you, Headmaster. I''ll see you tomorrow, Kawakami-Sensei." Her face darkened and she replied with a slight scowl away from the headmaster. I think she still can''t tell. Sojiro led through the door heading back towards the car. "So, think you''ll manage?" "Yeah, might even be fun." "...Let me stop you right now. If I get any trouble, I don''t care what the headmaster says, you''ll be on the street you know? And you best not get any ideas with the teacher neither." "What do you mean?" "I don''t know what you did to annoy her, but she did not look happy with you. I understand why you were looking but have some tact. For your own sake and others." Was I that obvious? I don''t remember staring. "Are you saying you would teach me then?" "Hahaha, no. God, no. Stick to girls your own age, get a bit of experience. Trust me, that is more trouble than its worth." I suppose I have only had one girlfriend before. Would this even be grounds to say we broke up? Things were left rather unfinished back then. I had said the words. Admittedly, time was cut shorter than I would''ve liked. Nonetheless, this would make me a single man again... I never really thought about it before. I wonder how she''s doing now? With time I''m sure she''ll move on, I''ll do the same. "How much experience is enough?" "Dead set on it, huh? Let me warn you off the bat, I run a restaurant. So don''t go making that room into a love-shack. I''ll kick you out if you disturb me or the customers." Does he want me to get experience or not? Entering the passenger seat we both settle into the car and traverse back to Yongen-Jaya only to be hit with an irregular torrent of traffic. "Another mental shutdown case has been reported. A train conductor has tipped and blocked the subway. Recovery services at the site have restricted road traffic resulting in heavy traffic through Tokyo centre. Those that can, please avoid using the roads for..." Sojiro cut off the radio switching to a music station. "God, what a pain in the ass. You''ll be getting the train starting tomorrow, I suggest you familiarize yourself with the route." "Couldn''t even open up shop today. What a troublesome one I''ve taken in..." I can guess but... "Why did you take me in?" "...I was asked to by your guardian. Already been paid for it as well." Guardian? "And who might that have been?" "Hmm. I suppose custody was thrown around quite a bit. But ultimately it was Sakayanagi. He''s an old friend." Looks like I got off lucky. I''ve caused a bit too much trouble for him to come see me now, not that I''d want to anyway. This is ideal. "Sakayanagi insisted you were a good but troubled boy needing somewhere to stay. He kept repeating you weren''t in the wrong and said this was the only place you could come." "And what do you think?" "Remains to be seen. I''ve only just met you, y''know." "That''s reasonable." "Besides, it¡¯s what happens when you get involved in other people''s troubles. You took that risk." "... I agree. I''d still do the same again, even knowing the outcome." "Troubled indeed." Quiet you. I couldn''t just leave him to target other students after all. I was the only one able to handle that situation, thus it just came down to one thing. Handling it myself. Hmm? Is that true? Was I that kind of person? Handling him... that part certainly feels true almost like a responsibility. But... preventing the other students, that... Something feels strange... People there I was protecting... I remember one or two faces. But a lot of it is blurry in my memory, like a foggy mirror only showing a glimpse of the reflection. That''s pretty rare... Maybe my nerves got the best of me, it was a pretty dangerous situation. Not just that, a few things don''t add up... I''m probably just being paranoid. For now, let¡¯s just focus on getting used to the new school and this grumpy guardian of mine. Classroom of the average "For Shujin Academy? Please cross over to the Ginza line over in the Teikyu building upper level. It¡¯s the building you''ll see as you come up the stairs." The attendant points towards the exit of the underground station. "I see, thank you." I nod and move towards the end passing some fliers on the way. "Hmm... Part-time jobs. Interesting." Taking a brochure and sauntering to the stairs I continue my tumultuous yet liberating journey to school. Gradually I eclipse the stairs and reach the apex. To my right the Hachiko statue and a lottery booth both stands. Even in the early hours of the day plenty of people take pictures of the statue and convene in the seating area. The city is always bustling and around the station is no different. It probably doesn''t help that central street is right next to here, so the business is expounded rather drastically. In front lay the Teikyu building and the line for the last leg of my journey. I pace without delay, ensuring I don''t miss the train on my first day. The rail lines come into view and the immense crowd waiting for the train is suffocating. Many students just like me lay in wait, I wonder if some will be my new classmates? Hissing can be heard from nearby, the train is approaching. Hopefully I can find a seat... Businessmen, housewives, students. People from all walks of life filter out of the train previously crammed like sardines. Only to be replaced with another faceless fish and repackaged. I am one of those fish. Swim swiftly and find your habitat. My incredible maneuvers allow me to reach a single seat that was still open, only to be taken by a student with my same uniform. She had long red hair contained by a ribbon adorning her head and a badge relegating her as a first-year student. An elderly woman had also approached the seat around the same time as me. "Oh, my apologies. I didn''t see you there ma''am. You can have this seat my stop is coming up soon." "Oh, thank you dear. That''s kind of you." A businessman to my right had taken a rushed step forward attempting to claim the seat for himself. His movement had taken me for surprise and after being nudged I lost balance, slipping into his pathway. "Ah, my bad." He came colliding into my shoulder and was rebuffed. Before I could finish apologizing, the elderly woman had managed to settle into the students seat. "Here. Are you okay?" The scarlet haired student had reached out her hand for me to grab, to which I take it into my own. Huh? She''s rougher than she looks, these are some serious calluses. Kendo? "Thanks." "No worries. I''m Kasumi Yoshizawa, and you are?" "Ayanokouji Kiyotaka." "Ooh? You''re a senpai, that badge says you''re a second year. I''ll be in your care Ayanokouji-senpai." "No need for all that, I''ll be as lost as you. It¡¯s my first day at this school." "Me too!" "You also transferred late?" "Yep! Still, I''ll be counting on you senpai." For what exactly? "I see..." "What school did you come from before this? "ANHS, what about you?" "What! You came from that elite school, what are you doing here?" So, the topic is centred around me now. How bothersome. "Some circumstances caused me to move here." "...I see, sorry for forcing the topic senpai. Still, surprising someone from that school is attending here." Good, she can at least take a hint. I don''t dislike the school or anything like that, but I don''t really want to delve into that topic either. "... Do you know anyone else at Shujin?" "Sadly no. That''s why I''d be grateful if we could be friends Ayanokouji-senpai!" "Sure, no need to be formal Yoshizawa." Oops, I''d gotten used to greeting without honorifics I don''t think she''ll mind though. It''d be bothersome to change that habit now. Just keep on chugging along then. We ended the short journey on the train with slight conversation, mostly on her part. Yoshizawa was rather gifted with a charming and bubbly personality, which made socializing a breeze for someone as unaccustomed as myself. "Ah! I just forgot I need to meet the club coach early, I''ll need to run. See you later Ayanokouji-senpai!" Wonder what sport it is? As Yoshizawa''s figure blended into the distant crowd, the heavens also began to open. Rather than get soaked I''ll just wait for it to die down. We''ve still got a bit of time before homeroom starts. Finding an overhang of a building and situating myself comfortably revealed another student wearing a similar uniform to myself. Well, as similar as they can be given this strange school uniform. That and also the gender differences between us meant that the only shared uniform was that of our blazers, which also held a second-year badge. This girl was also in my year? Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. The female student pulled back her hood and revealed her face. Wow, she''s pretty. Is she half? Looks like some Scandinavian or northern European mixed with traditionally Japanese traits. She had natural blonde hair and blue eyes but a complexion and some facial features more resembling the average Japanese population. Japan with its notoriously isolationist philosophy is almost entirely populated by Japanese people, making foreigners or half-half citizens very rare. Indeed, I had met few of them. Even at ANHS only a few were present; immediately the visages of Albert came to mind. Mii-chan as well though she had Chinese and Japanese parents. Oh crap. I looked a bit too long thoughtlessly. The girl noticed my eyes in her direction and sent a small smile my way before glancing at her phone once again. Phew. See this is a normal reaction to a glance, have we learnt anything Horikita? Suddenly, a shiver ran down my spine. She can''t hear me, can she? Seriously she''s even invading my mind now, is nowhere safe? Still though, when will this rain die down? I''d rather not make my appearance in class looking like a drowned rat. As if God himself had answered my prayers a car pulled up towards the curb. Of course, being a rationally raised young man I was aware of the dangers of accepting the favor of a random person. Stranger danger and all that. Despite that I also long to dodge this rain, what to do... "Hey, you need a lift? You''re gonna be late." "Uhm... Sure." Well, that''s rather surprising. A teacher or family member, I guess? "And you?" How fortunate. "I''ll be troubling you, thanks." I situate myself in the back passenger seat just behind the girl who had also been offered this favour. "... Stupid pervy, teacher-...!" A debase string of insults barrelled from the outside world. In the mirror was a student chasing after the car. The female student on the other hand was off in her thoughts staring out the window, not noticing the student in chase. The benevolent teacher on the other hand pretended not to notice the chase. Not that I blame him, I also wouldn''t feel comfortable extending the same favour to someone obviously hostile. Relative silence continued for a minute or two before the teacher directed his attention to me. "So, I haven''t seen you here before. Am I right in assuming you''re the new transfer student?" "Yes sir." "Just call me Kamoshida-sensei. I heard you came from that elite school, how was it?" "Interesting. I''m afraid I''m not allowed to say much else about it." "That''s unfortunate. If you''re feeling up for it, why don''t you come to the sports hall some time. I''m intrigued to see how well they''ve taught you there." "I might disappoint you on that front. I''m grateful for the invitation though." "Please I do insist, I''m sure you''re being modest. After all, the principal tells me you caused quite the stir in your first year." To think they even gave them records, I suppose it might be unavoidable. "As a coach I just can''t miss that opportunity, we might just get an aspiring recruit." "I don''t think I can answer your expectations." "Well then, just a practice game? You don''t have to do anything else. Just call it professional curiosity." He''s rather insistent, I guess I''ll just go along with it for now. "...What exactly will we be playing?" "Hmm. So, the rumours are true... Why don''t you take a guess?" Rumours, what rumours? They aren''t about me, are they? I thought the principal said few people knew. Unless he''s one of the few, let''s just pray he doesn''t intend on spreading those claims. On the other hand, what sport? He''s rather tall and broad, he also specified the sports hall for an indoor sport. I''d wager its either basketball or volleyball maybe. Other sports wouldn''t require such muscle mass from him, in fact it''d likely be detrimental. "...Basketball or volleyball I''d guess." His ears perked up towards the end of the sentence. "What gave it away?" My assumption is correct. I''d double down on volleyball after his reaction. "...Just intuition." "Hm. I hope you put up a good fight. Ah, here we are. Make your way towards class. Takamaki-san show him the way, you''ll be in the same classroom after all." "...Yes, sensei." She didn''t seem too thrilled at the prospect. We both ejected from our seats whilst Kamoshida-sensei drove to the parking lot. Takamaki simply kept walking in the direction of the school, not paying any attention to me behind her. She continued inside the school building and up the stairs to the second floor all the way to class 2-D. Wow, Deja vu. Is this where the concept that every Japanese high school has a similar S-system is revealed? Nah, no way. In fact, I''m begging that isn''t the case. I don''t need a Chabashira 2.0. Let me rest, please. "...This is our new classroom. Ayanokouji-kun was it?" "Yeah. Do you know the way to the faculty office? I need to meet our homeroom teacher first." "Oh, you should''ve said before. Just go down that hallway opposite the stairs, second door on the left." "Thanks." "...Hey..." "Yes?" "...No, it doesn''t matter, sorry." Not divulging whatever information, she intended to Takamaki returned into the classroom. I quickly stride to the faculty office to get this over with sooner rather than later. With a little excitement for meeting my homeroom teacher once again. Hey, I can''t help it. Knock, knock. Can''t just burst inside it wouldn''t set a good example after all. "Yes, come in." "...Ah, Ayanokouji-kun. Take a seat for a moment please." She''s trying to maintain a straight face, that hesitation was all I needed to know she still remembers the induction. It wouldn''t matter anyway she''ll never breach the topic herself. Which means I can leave this matter for a while. "You understand your position, right? Please try and make a good introduction to the class whether you mean it or not." "Understood." "...Did you bring the student ID with you?" Well colour me surprised, if my face could show the emotion of surprise, it might very well be painted upon it. Unfortunately, for both me and Kawakami-sensei that isn''t the case. "Yeah, here. Is something wrong?" "Oh, no nothing at all. Did you pick something up along with it?" She''s getting awfully confident with these questions, is she not worried this might backfire? "There was some scrunched-up pamphlet with it. I just assumed it was rubbish you intended to throw away, should I have returned it?" "I see. I just don''t want you getting the wrong idea, a student was holding that flier, so I confiscated it from him. If that''s the case, then everything''s fine." Is it though? "I didn''t look at it to be honest." She sighs in relief. "Still. What was on that flier to worry you so much Kawakami-sensei?" At that she looks towards me and a small sheen gathers on her head slowly due to the pressure. "Oh... That... I-It''s nothing to worry about. If you didn''t see it then that''s for the best after all, better for students not to be distracted from their studies. Hahaha..." Seeing Kawakami-sensei try and worm out of it was rather funny. She didn''t have anything to worry about, I didn''t really care after all. It isn''t uncommon for teachers to have another job, even if the occupation itself is shady. My own teacher last year would twilight as a demon, so it isn''t that uncommon. "I see, I can''t lie. That just makes me even more intrigued." "Too bad. For now, focus on making a good introduction to the class." "I''ll try my best." "...Is that going to be enough?" She muttered to herself. Well, that was rather rude. I''ll have you know my introduction last time went... Yeah, no it went horribly. Can''t exactly blame the lack of confidence. "...Well then follow me to our classroom." Noticing that the conversation had played its part I just followed behind my homeroom teacher quietly. Introduction - take 2 "Alright, students we have a transfer. Please make him feel welcomed. Introduce yourself." Kawakami-Sensei gave about the most taciturn introduction that had seen. Worry and and mild depression ran across her face. It hurts that my teacher has such little faith in my abilities. I''ll show you what the last 2 years have taught me! "..." "..." Oh, right. Forgot to speak. "My name is Ayanokouji Kiyotaka. Nice to meet you all." I''m incredibly embarrassed that it was this easy... And I still fumbled it again. How embarrassing. Will I be forced to live in isolation once again? Or is there a Horikita character in this class as well? Actually, that might be worse than being alone, I might end up stabbed to death or just end up offing myself if she started to destroy my ego once again. Let''s look on the bright side. It was a stark improvement from my last attempt. "Right. Uhm. The seat at the edge of the class is free just in front of Takamaki-san. Please go and take your seat, we''ll begin homeroom right away." It feels like every single student is staring me down as I approach the seat. C''mon there are other things to look at y''know. Still, this is fortunate. I''m sat next to the only person who''s name I know. My first opportunity to make a friend at this school. That''s what I needed, friends. Nothing else would take up my time over the next two years, I needed to surround myself with people. Hear different opinions, see different ways of life. In that way I could become my own person. Someone that stands on their own tenants, unshakeable principles that are forged through an understanding of life and the people that influence it. Right now, I was the polar opposite. What was I living for? What is the meaning of my existence? From a purely philosophical and reasonable purview the immediate answer would be nothing. There is no meaning. That''s rather nihilistic and I don''t intend to meander through life never experiencing anything simply because ''it doesn''t matter''. The more appropriate response is to make my own values. To create a sense of purpose from the surroundings and situation I''m put in. That''s why people connect, attend clubs, make friends, find a partner etc. etc. Those things are still foreign to me. I had accomplished some meager connection with my classmates a year prior. But... My heart was never in it. The environment of that place necessitates competition. Cooperation and meaningful connection are often hard to experience if your main objective is beating everyone else no matter the means. Stolen novel; please report. That was why I had been looking forward to this. A real chance. No tests, no suffocating environment. I was free. Well, the closest you could be to free whilst on probation. Nonetheless it was a huge difference from last year¡¯s circumstances. The question was; how do I make friends again? Last year, pretty much every bond I had made I practically wandered into. Whether it was Horikita''s agreement, Kei''s circumstances or Hirata''s altruism. Even Ichinose had only become closer to me by proxy of Horikita as our leader, her attitude made it impossible for cooperation unless I stepped in. Take the Ayanokouji group for example; all good friends which I enjoyed my time with. However, did I have any impact on the formation of that group? I could argue that Airi might not have been included if I didn''t make some moves but other than that? I''m pretty sure the rest of them would''ve used my name for the group and called it a day whether I did or didn''t protest. In a typical school I imagine clubs and after school activities would be the fastest way. I''m a transfer student after all, I don''t know whether they''ll be particularly interested to know me. Just the fact that this is my first day immediately makes me an outcast even amongst my peers. With that in mind, what should be my next move? Getting involved with a club isn''t a bad idea per se. But I''d like enough time to experience some things outside of school as well. The flier''s I had picked up on the way were interesting and I doubt Sojiro will be giving me any handouts. Not that I''m dissatisfied, he''s already providing a roof for me. "Now that everyone''s settled, class rep start the register." A boy with black hair stood in the centre of the class. He didn''t really exhibit any standout traits, if I had to say anything about him was unique it was the listless expression on his face and the trace of bruising on his wrist. "Understood. Everyone bow. Begin attendance." It was only at this moment that I realised every other student was still stood up for attendance. And I was... sitting down. I was in my head too much, how embarrassing. Do I stand up again? Or just stay sat? I don''t know which is weirder because no-one''s addressed it. Do all normal schools do this? This was never a thing in ANHS. Ah whatever... I''ll attract attention no matter what I do at this stage. I''ll just remain seated. The students listed their names from the front left of the class near the door going down the row until the end. Then the next row began alternating like a snake until what I assume would be my turn arrived. It''d be strange to introduce myself again after I had to in front of the class. So, I''ll just say ''here''. Wait no, what if they already forgotten my name in that time? It''s pretty common to do that. Crap, it''s my turn now. "Ayanokouji Kiyotaka... Uhm, here." So that''s your master plan! To just say both? A few of the girls were giggling at the other end of the class. Ahh, this is it. I''m not going to be able to make any friends here. Who''s going to speak to the guy that randomly sat down first and had such a crap introduction. Is it getting hot in here? It feels like a sauna, or is that just my embarrassment burning me? Attendance finished whilst I lamented in my sorrows. "Everyone''s present, good! Turn to page 52 in your textbooks. We''ll start with-" Friendly Competition pt. 1 Overall, the day was rather uneventful. During lunch I had decided to walk about the campus to see what the school had to offer. Eating and reading in the library was a nice change of pace and allowed some quiet after the stressful encounter that was my introduction to the class. Eventually the final lesson had come to an end. As we were packing up our bags it didn''t seem like any of the other students were particularly interested in talking to me, so I was prepared to end the day without incident. But... That would just lead to the same start I had last year. Something had to change. I had to change. Gaining my resolve, I turn around to face the one decent chance I had to make a friend. Hey! I''m not a coward because I turned straight to Takamaki, it was just the most convenient. Promise. "...Hey Takamaki." I didn''t get her attention she was just staring out of the window listlessly. Looking down into the courtyard where a few students were gathered with PE uniforms. Sigh. Maybe she''s just ignoring me? I''d hate to be the needy guy constantly asking for attention. So be it, I''ll leave it here for today. Gathering my things and preparing to leave the classroom. The murmurings of one of the boys just leaving came to my attention. "Ignored... Kamoshida''s.... girl. Haha-!" I only heard a few words but that was all I really needed. Still, that''s a strange topic to be so open about. Unless another student shares the same name isn''t a relationship between those two not only illegal but completely unethical? ...Isn''t my place. I gathered the rest of my things and prepared to leave the classroom, only to be interrupted by a visitor. A hulking giant at the entrance to the classroom. His arm was resting on the top of the door frame practically blocking the exit and any who dared to pass. "Kamoshida-sensei!" A few of the girls waved and shouted to him, all the while giggling between each other. "Hey girls, Kawakami treating you all well?" "Yeah, her class is always enjoyable." "Swell. Sorry, but I''ll be on my way just came to grab the new kid." Me? Oh, I almost forgot about the match. Crap, is there any way out of this now? I already had a bad enough entrance, add public embarrassment through sport to the list and my reputation might be unsalvageable. "C''mon then newbie! I''ve already got the sports hall booked. Let''s get the match underway!" "Ooh! You''re playing, Kamoshida-sensei?" "Indeed I am. This body will get all stiff if I don''t exercise once in a while. Hey, if you guys have the time, why don''t you come to watch?" Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings. "Really, can we?!" A lot of the students that were about to leave had stopped upon that revelation. That must mean he''s pretty exceptional, I guess. Otherwise, no one would be this invested. "Of course, I''m sure you don''t mind the audience, right? Ayanokouji is a promising student in his own way." I''d much prefer I wasn''t even a part of the match, never mind the factor of an audience. Too late to change that now, I''d just become even more secluded than I am already. "i didn''t bring my gym clothes today, it wasn''t on the class itinerary." "No worries. We have a few spares in the storeroom. I''ll have Mishima show you." "...In that case, I suppose we should go." "Right you are, follow me." Apparently that directive also applied to the entire class as they all followed Kamoshida in their own separate groups. I drifted right behind him looking around at the school on our way there. Many of the boys in the class formed into small groups talking about the match, whilst the girls flocked around Kamoshida at the front. Takamaki had already left the classroom and by extension our group, where she had wandered, I have no idea. Probably went home, I''m jealous. One other boy, the same class rep that had stood in class earlier was alone as well. Slowly trailing behind the group as if each and every step took him that tiny bit closer to the afterlife. He shown more resignation than I did, poor guy. Finally, we came to the sports hall, it was rather large with many courts outlined by various markings on the floor. Large green nets which spanned the entire height of the interior could be dragged to enclose each court and shut off any interference from others. Right now, none of those nets were used instead the centre court was prepped for use. The crowds eyes immediately locked onto the centre as if a spotlight rained down on the court. It was rather nerve-racking knowing that this is where we would play. Everyone''s gazes focused entirely on the spectacle that would appear before them. Where my inevitable demise would be broadcast. "Mishima. Show him to the storeroom, grab him a spare uniform that fits, got it?" "...Right away, sir. Follow me." The taciturn boy directed me to a small door that was out of the way of the previous crowd. Inside lay plenty of different equipment; floor mats, balls, pumps, gymnastics apparatus etc. "I think we have a few old spares in this cupboard." In the cupboard were a few tattered kits which had seen better days. "I advise holding your breath when changing." I wasn''t entirely sure what he meant until I held the garments in my own hand for the first time. Stench would be putting it mildly. It honestly smelled as if they had never been washed before. The sweat of other users just gathered in the uniform and despite its dryness the smell and musky texture never quite left it. I had struggled putting the clothes on, but could I honestly even play like this? Not only would this affect me, but it could be off-putting to teammates. Is there really no alternative? Whatever, I just need to get this done quickly. "...Thanks." "No problem. Uh, it''s Mishima by the way. Mishima Yuuki." "Ah. Ayanokouji Kiyotaka, pleasure." "Yeah, it''s no worries I know your name already." "Right. I suppose my introduction was today." He looked off in contemplation after that. It''s just my name, no need to think too deeply. "..." "..." "Have you played any volleyball before?" "Once or twice at my last school. Other than that, I''m a complete beginner." "Well, this probably isn''t going to be very fun for you." "No kidding." "Why exactly did this match come about?" "Kamoshida insisted on it this morning, I couldn''t really tell you why he was so focused on it." "...You do know he''s a gold medallist, right?" "...Nope." This information would''ve been really useful to have, I don''t know say, right when I met him! "Sigh. We''ll probably be on the same team. So, let''s try our best Ayanokouji-kun!" That enthusiasm was rather unbecoming of the soft shell he portrayed. It''d be nice to have a reliable teammate like that. Friendly Competition pt.2 Thunder resounded throughout the hall. His hand descended from the sky faster than the eye could track, all the while his body formed a magnificent arc in the air. This was the most optimal technique. Even without any prior training or professional exposure I was sure of it. No made to acknowledge it. His presence itself ensured that he was in the crowd''s eyes. This was something the reigning giant had honed and taken great pride in for his entire life. The intimidating aura of the lit court in the centre of the hall was only exacerbated by the crowd of my classmates and the volleyball club currently berating the teacher with praise. This was reality, yet even now it felt like mere ants in the face of an elephant. That was the difference in power between these two lineups. This was what specified mastery over a lifetime gave you, complete dominion over the field. The average player could try, try, again and again. For years on end and still fail to even accumulate a fraction of the sheer power and awe-inspiring magnitude of the spike I had seen in that moment. The giant in question had finally noticed our arrival. "Ah, I was just getting warmed up I hope you don''t mind!" If that was the warmup then we''re promptly screwed. I really should''ve just refused a couple more times. "I can''t be the only one practicing! Mishima! Pick four students from the line and get some warmups done." "...Understood. Uh. Matsumoto-kun, Ishida-kun, Takakura-kun and... Suzui-san join me over here." The four students he called for in particular seemed rather low on spirits compared to the other students in the lineup. "Good choices. Then, the usual five minus Seita. Join me on this side of the court." Four male students with a more confident gait strolled over to the teacher''s side of the court and immediately got into formation. Speaking of which what formation will we be employing, I''m not familiar enough with the sport to choose. But judging by the difference in height between Mishima, myself and the other students. We should probably be the main defenders. "Kamoshida-sensei, would it be possible to see a few more spikes? It''d be a good learning opportunity." "No problem, it might help me loosen up as well." "In that case, please show me how it¡¯s done." "Only because you''ve asked so nicely. Setter, ready up." The rest of my teammates immediately move off of the court and away from the netting. The ball immediately raises into the air just above the enemy setter''s head. At the critical moment the setter jumps and tosses the ball beautifully to the left wing. Just as it seems the toss was wasted, Kamoshida''s body blitzed to the left wing following the moving entity like a predator chases prey. He leaps forming an arc in the air as his right arm hammers down bringing judgment upon the court. The resounding of his hand making contact thundered throughout the hall, echoing and drowning all other noise in the vicinity. Faster than I could think the ball smashed into the floor bouncing up with a level of unmatched vigour. The students on my side winced at the sound, getting hit with that certainly wouldn''t be pretty. Thousands of people could train this skill for their entire life and never match the strength of that single spike once in their life. That was the level of talent I had to compete with. My heart began to beat even faster knowing that I would be on the same court, using my body and limited technique to contend with him. Exhilarating. Winning didn''t matter here. Losing was a foregone conclusion. This was a practice match, it held no meaning. This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. But a voice, a guttural reaction from my depths. It made me vow for victory, even in impossible odds. The peak of this very sport stood in front of me, asking to be contested. A game with no stakes, yet it moved me more than any other had. I''ll demolish that pride or get destroyed in the process. "Did I live up to your expectations Ayanokouji?" "More like destroyed them..." "HAHAHA! So modest. Well then, give it a go. Have a couple tries." Who even are the setters on this side? I turned to Mishima, who likely understood what I wanted to ask. "Suzui-san and Ishida-kun have some setter practice, so try with each a few times. By the way which hand is your dominant?" "My right." "I see, we''ll try from both sides still. But it may feel more comfortable on the left wing." Neither of the two named students stepped forward. "...Uhm, Ishida-kun could you set for him a few times." The boy in question had long hair and was standing dead still. "Oh, sure." He was rather out of it. The long hair which covered his fringe, didn''t allow me to properly peer into his eyes. He could''ve been asleep for all I know. Preparing myself in the right wing first, I had begun my run towards the net a bit delayed. By the time I was in position to jump, the ball was already coming towards me. Quickly jumping and swinging my right arm to reach the ball allowed it to just barely cross over the net. Out of bounds, unfortunately. The next throw was in the same orientation, but the distance thrown was shorter this time. Even reaching with my left arm during ascension wouldn''t allow for much power, thus a lacklustre connection once again. This time I tried from the left wing, watching the ball and the setter carefully, to predict where it would land. Only to find the ball was tossed much faster than previous attempts meaning my swing was completely off target. Resulting in the first air ball. Inconsistency would be the main problem with Ishida''s setting. At the very least I could sync to the approach, but if the timing of a set, distance and speed have such intense variety I don''t have much to work with. None of my spikes will be particularly strong. I''ll have to cut that off as a potential attack then. Instead, I''ll focus on precision and defence. "C''mon Ishida what was that!? Keep your training in mind, will you? Hah... Suzui you go up next." An actively exasperated Kamoshida could be seen peering at our side, then his eyes landed on Suzui. She shuddered imperceptibly. Yeah, I wouldn''t want to be chewed out by him either, especially knowing how fast those spikes would be coming in... Suzui approached me first before attempting a single set. "...Ayanokouji-kun, have you played before?" "Like once or twice, I think." "..." She stood in silence, the look she gave was blaringly loud in comparison. Peering at me with those black orbs as if she were looking at some strange creature. Hey, I''d avoid this as well if it were possible. "Let''s try the left wing first then, I guess..." Accompanied by an almost inaudible sigh. Compared to Ishida, Suzui''s sets were much more refined. This was mostly because they held a somewhat constant behaviour. Even if the distance, speed or timing altered, it was within error. Meaning I could work with it. Unfortunately, that doesn''t mean my form itself was anything spectacular. Managing the distance between myself and the net, watching the setter, jumping the correct height, swinging at the right angle and timing etc. etc. It was a lot of management in such a short amount of time. It doesn''t help that all past experience with volleyball was rather passive. I had never held a particularly strong role in the group, this time that isn''t the case. Even in this group of more experienced players. if no one has the will to fight. Then it''s the same as accepting a loss straight out of the gate. Add on the height disparity between the averages of our group, then only Mishima or myself have much chance blocking a spike from Kamoshida. Not that I hold much hope for that event occurring. After a few middling spikes which managed to stay within bounds, the final practice set was ready. My body was primed, my calves tensed, and I raised onto the balls of my feet. The ball jumped into the air directly above the setters head. Slowly, I notice the crease in her hip travel down to knee and finally her ankle. The joints moved in sequence collecting the energy for the spring-like jump to meet the ball in the air. For a single instance her hands graced the ball, as quickly as they touched, they parted. The ball travelled as if submerged in water, slowly it approached my trajectory. I entrusted my body with the rest. As if naturally acclimating to the limited experience, I hinged and leapt high enough for my hand to reach the ball at my apex. Following through with as much speed possible, it pounded into the floor leaving naught but a thundering slam to echo throughout the hall. Suzui looked in my direction with a slight shock on her face, before giving a small thumbs up. That felt good.