(Kiriwatari-sensei’s POV)

  “Hmm, should I take this deal or not…”

  As the head principal of an academy, my job isn’t just about securing a future for the students, but I also have to make sure that this pce can withstand any obstacles throw at it.

  I need to make sure that I’m working with the right person, giving the students the best opportunities I can offer and the most important thing, making the right decision. Just one small misstep and things can go south very quick.

  But even as a high ranking member of [Knights of Tomorrow], there is still something I can’t decide on my own, such as the case of Hatake Kira, a former member of the terrorist organization [Rising Phoenix] and a student of mine.

  To sump things up, he got mind-controlled and forced to work for them, but to everyone’s surprised, Yasutaira Waka, another student of mine somehow broke Kira free from the mind-control. Of course there’s still business to handle, starting with the upcoming [Knights Meeting]. Yasutaira-kun is…somewhat an unpredictable wildcard.

  The organization could definitely use someone like him, but given his history…it’s best to just reconsider this matter with other members.

  “Sensei, there’s someone out here that want to meet you. They said they are members of [Knights of Tomorrow]. Do you want me to let them come in?”

  “Sure thing. Make sure to treat the guess properly.”

  Huh, I wonder who would come. I’m pretty sure I set the meeting to happen next week, but maybe they’re here for another reason…

  “Hey [Phantom Mist], we got your invitation. Is everything OK here?”

  “Sup Mist, long time no see eh? Pretty rare of her to host a meeting, eh buddy?”

  “That’s Ms. Phantom Mist for you by the way, [Duo of Death]. Also, why are you guys here so soon?”

  “So soon? What do you mean by so soon?”

  “You guys…did not check the date, did ya?”

  “Date? Let’s see…May 15? But today is only May 9!”

  “Hah…Just as I thought…”

  “We’re sorry we didn’t check the day!”

  “Oh no, it’s alright…I knew that you guys would definitely the first to show up so while we’re here, there’s something I need you to check through real quick.”

  I take out the document from my desk and give it to the duo. At first, they are still a little confused on what I just handled them, so I give them some additional contexts.

  “What you see is the reason for the upcoming meeting. As you can clearly see, he’s the candidate for the [Low-ranking Knight] position. What do you guys think?”

  “Hmm, there’s nothing stands out too much about this kid…[Summoning Magic]? [Super Strengthen Magic]? What is this combination? Where did you find this kid?”

  “Huh…this kid really is something…Yo, he might be a great addition to us organization buddy. Where can I meet this kid?”

  “Calm down gentlemen, take your time. We still have a week to prepare and discuss this matter. But seeing how investing you guys are…I guess you guys already have an answer…”

  “Of course we have! I don’t know where you get this kid from, but he definitely deserves a spot. What about you buddy?”

  “You know, as much as I like him, I don’t know how the others are gonna react…But putting that aside, yeah you got my vote.”

  “Thanks a lot. I couldn’t ask for more from you guys.”

  “Hey, friends help each other, am I right?”

  Well, those already are three upvotes for him. I still need at least four more that I have no control of, it has to depend on what the others have to say about our candidate, Yasutaira Waka.

  (Yasutaira’s POV)

  It’s been two weeks since the Kira incident.

  Honestly, nothing much has changed, at least for me. Kira returned to css after being absent for a few days, with the excuse being that he had some business with his family and he need some time-off. He still had some feelings against me, but eventually we worked out. We even trained together regurly, not only because I need a sparring partner besides Tiamat, but I also want Kira to move on with the past.

  I’m no one to judge, but I can’t stand seeing my friends fall down from grace when I have the tools to help them.

  Speaking of training, I’m still working on mastering [Super Strengthen Magic], but I can clearly see the results here and there, which means I’m making progress.

  “Woo! That was close Master! You’re even doing better than st time, I’m impressed!”

  “Thanks Tiamat, but don’t lose your guard or I might hit you in that perfect face Tiamat!”

  “That’s the spirit Master, another round?”

  “We still have time right? Then let’s go!”

  She’s really fast let me tell you. I can hardly catch up to her speed, but that was the old me. Now, with a better control of [Super Strengthen Magic], my eyes have finally be able to see her movement. But that doesn’t mean I can see through all of the tricks in her sleeve…

  “Right behind you Master! Heyaa!”

  “Huh? Not so fast!”

  She teleports to right behind me, trying to punch me. I successfully catch her fist, prepare for a counter attack. But before I can do that…

  “Got you Master!”

  The Tiamat right in front of me disappears. From the left, she appears out of nowhere and kicks me. I got knocked back a few meters, but I recover quickly. She once again disappears into thin air, so I roll my eyes around, trying to see where she can be.

  “[Rocket Punch]!”

  She dashes me from bellow with such a speed that I can’t react. By the time I realized what’s going on, she had knocked me to the ground, defeated me.

  “You got me, you got me Tiamat. Man that’s hurt.”

  “Oh yeah! Undefeated champion baby!”

  “I thought this isn’t a contest?”

  “Not anymore Master!”

  I have no problem with her getting competitive but damn she hit me hard. Normally I would have suffered severe injuries, even worse died from the blow. But thanks to [Super Strengthen Magic], I manage to recover in a few minutes.

  “Gotta say Master, you did a great job back there. You put on one hell of a fight Master!”

  “Yeah…Thanks for the compliment…But right now I just need some time to…you know…”

  “All right Master, I guess we can call it a day. Take your time.”

  Since the Kira battle, Tiamat and I had decided to take the training up a notch, despite having to spend more time working for the student council. Instead of ten or twenty,

  I now have to train in fifty times gravity on a daily basis, while figuring out how to master [Super Strengthen Magic]. It’s definitely not something I can pull off overnight, but I’m confident that I can do it.

  “Hey Tiamat, what time is it?”

  “Let me check…It’s five twenty five.”

  “Well, I guess we should prepare for the morning exercise. I may sound like a maniac by saying that but hey, like a former president once said, “No matter what you have or where you are, always try to make the best use of your circumstances to pursue your goal”, am I right?”

  “You really did your homework didn’t ya?”

  “Well, this is what happens when you spend the st ten years doing this stuff. Eventually you’ll get the memo whether you like it or not.”

  Ten years may sound like a long time, but I feel like it passes way too fast. Just a blink of an eye and I went from a scrawny kid to now a teenager. If I blink more, I might become a grumpy old man before I even knew it!

  But that is still nothing compare to what Tiamat had been through, at least that is what I saw in my dreams. So maybe in some ways, she knows it better than anyone I could think of.

  “All right…I’m back to full strength. Let me just stretch my body real quick and we’re good to go.”

  “Want me to help Master?”

  “Nah I’m good. Besides I know what you’re up to, so it’s not gonna work this time Tiamat.”

  “Ehehehe…”

  I don’t know where she got it from, but recently she keeps occasionally doing weird stuffs like helping me with some questionable methods or examining my body in weird ways. She really needs to learn to draw a line sometimes. It’s like she’s trying to seduce me or something.

  “Look Tiamat, I understand that you just want the best for me, but just…take it easy OK? I’m not ready for that level of commitment yet.”

  “Yeah…I’m sorry…”

  “Well if that’s the case, how about I buy you something on my way home from the shift? Maybe a drink or something?”

  “Really? Thanks a lot Master, you’re the best!”

  With that, we get out of the [Almighty Realm], ready for a new day ahead of us.

  “Damn, you’re quite the celebrity aren’t you?”

  “Yeah, I guess people find me to be very…attractive…”

  “But they really have good eyes you know? You really are a handsome guy!”

  “Really? Th…Thanks I guess?”

  “Don’t sweat it. After all, I’m your friend right?”

  “Yeah…”

  Kira and I are heading to the academy together. He still hasn’t fully recovered from the incident so I thought that by doing this he can somehow make it through. Without the mind-control, he’s like a completely different person: a little shier and more generous than usual. It’s like I’m talking to a really nice guy, not a sadistic jerk.

  Maybe the [Mind Control] creates a persona that reflects the opposite side of a person. Or it just randomly makes one to repce the original? I really need to ask sensei more about this, or maybe Tiamat has the answer to this.

  “Woah look, it’s Kira! [The Silver Prince] is coming here! Quick, do something!”

  “Kyaa! He’s so handsome! So strong! So handsome!”

  Uhm Miss, I think you just said “handsome” twice. The girls keep screaming and falling as if they just saw their idol, which in Kira’s case is quite accurate. He has the look, he has the charisma and he definitely has the charm.

  The only problem is that some of those traits are no longer there, at least he doesn’t seem to know how to show them. He’s about to explode any second, just little more and pop goes the weasel. And to make the matter worse…

  “Grr, what is that filth doing there with Kira? Who gave him the permission to walk with him? It should have been me!”

  “What? Kira is with [The Heretic]? But that’s impossible! Wait a minute, could I be that…”

  “No! My prince! Why must you go down that path? We were supposed to be together! Why must you deny your destiny like that?”

  Wow, things really just got out of hands very quick. They don’t seem to be able to think straight anymore. Then went from antagonizing me to fantasizing about every kind of weird stuff at the same time. I don’t understand how is that even possible, and so does Kira.

  “Hey Yasutaira, it’s getting worse. What should we do now?” he whispered to me.

  “Just keep going. I don’t think they would go crazy if you go with someone, in this case me. In other word, I’m the human shield.”

  “Is that alright? I mean, it’s kinda weird…”

  “Don’t worry Kira, I got you covered, so just go!”

  After dealing with a crazy amount of fangirls, we finally get inside the academy, heading to our css.

  “Hey Kariuda-chan, have you heard about the rumors about the new transfer student?”

  “Yeah Takizawa-san, I’ve heard about it. What’s wrong with that?”

  “I heard that she will move to our css, is that true?”

  “I can’t confirm it, but there are still possibilities. We will know when Hirose-sensei is here.”

  I didn’t mean to overhear their talk, but I don’t really have a choice since I myself also have something to discuss with Kariuda-san, but well I guess I’ll have to wait for a bit.

  “Really? I wonder who she is, must be nice to have her in our css. Anyways have a good day Kariuda-chan.”

  “You too Takizawa-san.”

  After those two finished their conversation, I slowly walk to Kariuda-san. Seems to see through my intention, she turns her head to me, ready to talk anytime.

  “Good Morning Karida-san. Uhm hey, can I ask you something?”

  “Yes Yasutaira-kun, what is it? If this is about the transfer student, then you must already know the answer.”

  “No no, I’m talking about the president and the vice president.”

  “Those two? Is there any problem?”

  “Oh not really, it’s just that…how come I only see their assistants but not them in flesh? Like do they skip css or they have more important tasks to do?”

  “The tter Yasutaira-kun. You see, they are among the, if not the, busiest people in this academy. They have to take missions from all round the world, so they occasionally absent from the academy. Now you may think that’s a lot, but consider the reputation and history of this pce, I’m sure you’ll get the clue.”

  “Oh I see…But what about Kiriwatari-sensei? Aren’t she like…the same?”

  “Well yes, but not really. Do you know why people call her [Phantom Mist]?”

  “No, I don’t really know…”

  “That is because she is the only human till this day that can master [Multiplication] magic. Not even her mother or any other person could pull that off, yet she made it.”

  “I don’t see how that is reted to what you said before…”

  “Oh a lot let me tell you. Combining [Multiplication] with a big enough magic pool and you can be at anywhere at any time on this pnet. That alone gather so much information without the need of too much help. In addition, if she can show up anywhere, it also means that she can disappear from anywhere on this pnet, hence the nickname [Phantom Mist].”

  “Woah…You sure do know a lot don’t you?”

  “I work for the student council for a reason you know.”

  “Yeah, I guess you’re right…Anyways, have a good day Kariuda-san.”

  “You too Yasutaira-kun.” she said as she smiled at me.

  You know, I used to think that Kariuda-san is unapproachable, but that changed drastically. She may not seem to be too friendly, but deep down I know she’s a great person to be friend with. Maybe I can learn one or two things from her.

  “Hey Master, are you curious about the transfer student?”

  “Not really. I do wanna know who’s coming to our academy, but at the same time…I’m not that crazy about it. It would be nice if she’s a part of my css though…”

  “Honestly Master, I did not expect you to not jump on this hype train. I mean, don’t you wanna know what she’s like?”

  “I do of course, but if the rumors turn out to be just you know…rumors, then does it even matter anymore?”

  “You’re… a weird person, Master.”

  “If casually talking to a dragon is weird, then maybe I am.”

  Everyone seems to be very excited about this new student. I keep hearing about her for the past week. Honestly, I don’t really care that much. Of course some parts of me want to know who is that supposed to be, but if it’s just a hoax, then I would be very disappointed.

  But well, like Kariuda-san said, I’ll just have to wait and see how things py out.

  “Hello there my lovely students! Hirose-sensei is here with a surprise for all of y’all! Come in!”

  Did she just say “come in”? Is there someone coming to our css? I take a look at Kariuda-san, but all she does is smirk and nod her head with satisfaction. It’s like she just finished her job and now enjoying the moment. That’s not a good sign to begin, and to make matter worse…

  “Hi everyone. I’m Takenaka Mitsuko. I just moved into the academy recently and starting from today, I'll study in this css. I’m looking forward to helping from everyone!”

  To everyone surprise, a gorgeous girl with white silky long hair is standing next to Hirose-sensei. Combine it with the newly bought uniform results in arguably one of the most beautiful girl I’ve ever witnessed.

  Takenaka Mitsuko, my childhood friend, has returned.

  The reason why I pick up my sword and fight is here. As far as I concern, she’s one of the few people that don’t disgust me for my reputation. She's my savior, she showed me the light, gave me hope and guided me through my darkest moments. Without her, I might never want to move on.

  Now that she’s here, I don't even know how to react anymore. I can’t just btantly say that I made it to her. But at the same time, I’m…really excited.

  I don’t know whether she still remembers the promise or not, but it’s just the matter of time until I show her what I’m capable of. This is the ultimate test for the path I’m taking, to see if all of my blood, sweat and tears are just worthless or not.

  "Damn Master, you look…way more motivated than usual.”

  “How can I not be like that when she’s finally here. This is interesting…I never thought that this day would come so soon…”

  “Uhm Master, are you alright?”

  “Oh Tiamat, I’m fine…In fact, I’m feeling better than ever…”

  “Woah Master, so scary…”

  Something just awakens in me. I don’t know what that is, but it’s making me all amp up. Of course only Tiamat can feel it, so on the outside, no one can see anything.

  After the introduction, Takenada-san quickly finds a desk to sit, which happens to be right to the left of me. It doesn’t take her too long to be the popur kid in css. Maybe it’s because of her charm, or maybe it just than everyone is curious about the new girl. But it seems like her attention has shifted to…me.

  “So you must be…Yasutaira Waka, right?”

  “Uhm yes that is my name. Nice to meet you.” I shook her hand.

  “I knew it! It is you! After all these years, I’ve finally get to meet you again! Do you still remember our promise?”

  “You…You still remember who I am? Even our promise!?”

  “Of course I do, I’m your childhood friend after all Yasutaira-kun.”

  “SHE’S YOUR WHAT NOW?” the whole css shouted at us.

  It took us quite a while to settle all of the misunderstanding and rumors, but in the end, everyone seems to accept the fact that we’ve known each other for years and move on with it.

  “Here’s the picture of me and my family in Romania. We just visited there st summer. Did you guys know that they have some of the best beaches in the world?”

  “Woah, you’ve been there? That’s amazing!”

  “Yeah, if you want, I can arrange a tour just for you guys. My family has connections so it won’t be a problem.”

  “Really? That’s awesome!”

  I think my childhood friend is a celebrity.

  That could be a good title for a manga if you ask me. I knew that her family is considered an elite, but I never knew she is that popur. It’s just a morning break but her seat is covered with curious students. Outside the cssroom, there are also lines full of students from other csses. It’s like there’s a fan-meeting event right next to me and Kariuda-san, for some reason, are doing a job of a security guard. Honestly, I expected the outside to be more chaotic, but everything in the hand of Kariuda-san is well-organized and tight. She really knows how to handle this kind matter doesn’t she.

  After a few minutes, the crowd is divided in half as Takenada-san is coming to my seat. Seeing that, I quickly understand her intention and get ready for what’s coming next.

  “Hey Takenada-san, you seem…busy…”

  “It’s alright Yasutaira-kun, I’m getting used to all of it by now. I don’t really consider myself famous, but people seem to love me a lot, so it can’t be helped.”

  “Yeah I see…” I ughed it off as I looked at the crowd behind her.

  “Anyways, it’s been years Yasutaira-kun. I have always waited for this day to come. You must have missed me a lot.”

  “You got me there Takenada-chan. So how is you and your family doing? How long have you guys moved back to Japan?”

  “We just got here st week. My dad was pnning to move into our old mansion, but he decided in st minute that he would buy a new one. So right now we’re still living in a hotel.”

  “As expected from Takeda-san, he sure does love owning houses.”

  “He’s addicting to it let me tell you. I don’t really want to brag but, *whisper* he has bought so much that we gave up counting a long time ago.”

  “Woah…”

  Seeing how close we are, the crowd starts to gradually sparse. I can see some of them getting jealous, while others leave so that we can have some space, but not in a good way. Ignoring them, I continue with our conversation.

  “So Yasutaira-kun, how are you doing? I heard rumors that you work in a restaurant, is that true?”

  “Yeah, it’s true. I became Sukeno-san’s apprentice and since then, I’ve been working in his restaurant.”

  “Really? “Fearless Chef” is your mentor? That’s so cool!”

  “Well you see, it was a tough journey…but I made it. Practice makes perfect, am I right?”

  “Speaking of practice, I really want to show you how stronger I am. I’ve worked very hard for this day you know.”

  “I guess we’re on the same boat here Takenada-san. I have something to show you too. Let’s say after lunch?”

  “Yeah Yasutaira-kun, I can’t wait!”

  Takenada-san and I then spend the rest of the break talking about the stories we stumble upon our way, the common things we like and exchange numbers with each other.

  “So Master, how was your first time talking to your childhood friend after years?”

  “You know, I know that you’re pying me, but to answer that question, it was great, and I feel very relieved that it happened.”

  “That’s great Master. I was worried that you might be overwhelmed by her, but I’m gd to know that turned out you were doing great.”

  “The oldest dragon in the world is concerning about a mere child’s problem. Sounds like a good comedy stand-up story for me.”

  “Come on Master, I’m not that cold-blooded you know?”

  “I know I know, I’m joking. But thank you for actually caring about me. I really appreciate it.”

  “Don’t sweat it Master. I’m just doing my job as your loyal servant after all.”

  “Which is why I’m counting on you for the task I’m about to give you. Can I trust you on it?”

  “Of course you can Master, just say the word and I’ll do it.”

  “Alright. So you remember than Kariuda-chan and I had agreed for a practice match after lunch right? “

  “So you want me to assist you during the fight? Well then, I have some tricks up my sleeve that will be very helpful to y…”

  “Quite the contrary Tiamat. I need you to stand down on this.”

  “But why Master? I could totally help you defeat her!”

  “See, that’s not the point. My goal is not to beat her, but rather prove that I’m finally strong enough to keep my promise with her, and I want to this on my own. Besides, don’t you want to see how I handle this alone?”

  “I mean, I really do, but not in this fight though…”

  “Just trust me on this. I promise you that I’ll put on my best no matter the outcome.”

  “Well Master if you say so, then I don’t really have no other choice but to obey. I guess being a spectator isn’t a bad option at all…”

  I don’t want to disappoint anyone, but sometimes the hardest choices require the strongest wills. I’m gd that Tiamat agree to let me dance on my own, I can’t quite imagine how our fight would progress with her getting involved.

  “Oh one more thing Tiamat.”

  “Hmm? What is it Master?”

  “There’s actually something important that I need to tell you, but…”

  “But what Master?”

  “I think it’s best to tell you tonight, how is that sound to you?”

  “That’s totally fine by me Master. It’s your decision after all, I can’t really argue with it can I?”

  “It’s not really a big deal, so no need to be too serious Tiamat. You will know when the night comes.”

  Tiamat nods her head, agree with what I said. Even though I said that it’s not very important, but I want to make sure this will be a surprise to her, part of it because this is something as far as I know only Tiamat can pull off. She may have not known it yet, or maybe she already knew my intention, but that doesn’t matter as long as she’s happy and willing to do it.

  “So this is where Yasutaira-kun usually hangs out…”

  “Yeah Takenada-san, somehow it’s the best and the worst pce to pick. Ain’t that right Yasutaira?”

  “Come on guys, I had a rough time, but I’m working on it, so just give me a break already.”

  Normally it’s just me, myself and I whenever I have lunch, but know it’s no longer the case. First it was Kira, now Takenada-san is the next person to join me for the lunch. Kariuda-san occasionally shows up, but not too much, so in one way or another, I don’t have to be alone anymore.

  “Hey Yasutaira-kun, what’s in the bento box? Can you show us?”

  “Yeah show her, surprise her like how you did on me.”

  “Alright, you ask you it.”

  I open my bento box, revealing my lunch I prepared. I didn’t know that Takenada-san is going to be here today, so inside it’s just my typical meal of shrimp tempura, Saba Shioyaki, some rice and colesw on the side. Of course there are condiments such as soy sauce and mayo, I want to eat well and rest well after all. From the look of Takenada-chan’s face, you can tell that she’s impressed with what I have to offer.

  “Woah, you made all of these? That’s amazing! I wonder how it would taste.”

  “I really want to share it to you, but I didn’t make any extra. Maybe another time?”

  “It’s alright. I’ll have my lunch in any second now, I just have to wait for it to arrive.”

  “You ordered take-out? I mean, I think the academy allow you to do that, so I can see why you did that.”

  “Well, not exactly…Just take a look at the sky and you’ll understand.”

  “Hmm?” Kira and I wondered as we looked.

  In the sky, there’s a helicopter with the size of a Bck Hawk flying toward the balcony. We rub our eyes thinking it’s just an illusion. But the moment it nds down right in front of us, we realize that we aren’t seeing things. As we haven’t processed what just happened, Takenada-san happily approach the helicopter. From the inside of it, we can clearly see there are butlers and maids preparing something, starting with a red carpet.

  “Hey Kira, just to crify, you see what I’m seeing too?”

  “Hips don’t lie and so does my eyes Yasutaira.”

  “Good, because this won't be the st time this kind of thing happen.”

  “Kariuda-san? What are you doing here?”

  “To observe and report of course. I have to make sure that the approval of this isn’t a bad idea, or else Kiriwatari-sensei and I are gonna have a field trip expining the matter to a lot of people.”

  Out of nowhere, Kariuda-san shows up and stands right beside me. She said something about keeping an eye on Takenada-san’s outrageous action. I know for a fact that she’s pretty rich, but to this extend…I’m shocked.

  “Wait a second, you don’t look that surprised at all…Did you know it’s gonna happen? Like Takenada-san’s appearance, her doing all kind of stuffs like this?”

  “We know more that you can comprehend Yasutaira-kun. Besides it’s just our duty to think three steps ahead of you so this is just another Monday for me.”

  “I beg to differ…”

  As we finishing our lunch, Takenada-san’s is also ready to be served as well. Never in my life have I ever witnessed something like this happened: a young dy having her fancy lunch on an academy’s balcony, surrounding with her servants and red carpets.

  “Midy, what would you like for lunch?”

  “I’d have steak with pea purée, roasted fingerling potatoes and chimichurri please.”

  “Excellent choice midy. It shall be done in 20 minutes.”

  Yup, she’s been doing this for a while now. The way things go smoothly like butter, I can tell that this isn’t the first time she does this.

  I work in a restaurant so I’m familiar with her order, but to Kira, those aren’t something you can just go and have it on a daily basis, so it’s expinable that he looks shocked and impressed. As for Kariuda-san, her face doesn’t change much, so I assume she had already foreseen this.

  “So Kariuda-san, have you eaten anything? I mean, you can’t do your job with no energy on you right?”

  “I’ll have it ter, thank you for your concern.”

  She’s on serious mode right now, even when it’s lunch. Her work ethic is incredible, I don’t think I can be on that level, but I guess level it up won’t hurt nobody.

  After Kira and I packed up our lunch, Takenada-san’s order is done. The butler brings out the ptes to her table. Just from the smell alone, I can tell that it’s going to taste very good. As she’s taking her first bite, Kira and I slowly stand up and leave our lunches behind.

  “So you two must be Mr. Yasutaira and Mr. Kira. Right this way.”

  “Uhm thanks, but you can call us Yasutaira and Kira, no need to be too ceremonious.”

  “How can we do that to our guess? You two deserve proper welcome. Hanz, Jenna, bring more seats for our guess!”

  “Well, if you said so…then I guess we can’t really deny it can we? Kira, we should go.”

  “I’m right after you Yasutaira.”

  As the butler escorts us to the seat, he introduces himself as John, Takenada-san’s personal butler. I think have seen him before, but my memory doesn’t exactly ring any bell. Reading my face, he reveals that we met before when I was young, but back then he was a little different from now, so that makes me not recognize him right away. As we’re walking, other butlers and maids line up on both sides and bow down to us. If anything, Kira and I are not used to this at all, but we have no other choice but to trust John on this.

  “What would you two gentlemen like to have for today?”

  “We’re all full, so maybe a cup of tea would be nice. How about you Kira?”

  “Make it two please.”

  “Would you like it with honey?”

  “Yes, we’ll take honey please.”

  “Splendid. Please wait for a few minutes and it shall be ready.”

  While waiting four our tea, Kira and I take a look around. It’s really rare to have this many people surrounding us, but to Takenada-san, it’s nothing. She still seems to enjoy her lunch very much, judging from the look of her face and the way she eats.

  “Uhm so Takenada-san, I know it’s kinda rude to ask now but…how’s your lunch?”

  “It’s delicious! You guys should try it!”

  “No thanks, Yasutaira and I are all full now, so maybe next time?”

  “Great! I’ll tell the chef next time to prepare more!”

  As for the rest of the lunch, we, but mostly Kira and Takenada-san, talk about her school and how her life was back in America. She’s really open-minded about the topic so it doesn’t seem awkward at all.

  After lunch, all her servants leave us behind to return to the “mansion”, at least that is what she called it. As for Kariuda-san, she writes something on her paper and says goodbye to us as she’s leaving.

  She’s very passionate about her job, not just about how serious she is, but the way she enjoys it. She’s definitely a role model for everyone to be a respectable individual, and I hope someday I can catch up to her…

  “Hey Master, this is your st chance to reconsider this. Just let me help you already.”

  “You not doing anything is helping me big time Tiamat, so just sit back and watch me.”

  Right now, Takenada-san and I are inside the training facility, ready for a friendly match. Kira couldn’t make it since he’s joining his other friends for their own training session.

  Honestly, as famous as Takenada-san is, I’m surprised that no one shows up for the match. Maybe it’s because of me and my reputation, but I guess in some way this is fine, as there won’t be any pressure at all. I’m not here to win, I just want her to see how far I go up to this point.

  “So the rules are simple: five minutes, who successfully hit the opponent first win. Only use wooden sword, magic is forbidden. You got it Yasutaira-kun?”

  “I got it! Let’s start the match shall we?”

  We grab our wooden swords and face each other. She’s using the sword like a rapier and get into the combat stance by holding her sword her with her right hand while put her left hand to the back. Magic isn’t allowed in this match so I’ll have to solely depend on my own strength, I can’t use [Super Strengthen Magic] that took me a whole month to use it properly. I’m a little nervous, but at the same time I can’t let her read me and my movement. I need to think of a pn to survive for the next five minutes…

  “Hargh!!”

  After mapping out what to do, I approach Takenada-san with the first blow. I aim for her head with my downward strike, and if things go according to my pn…

  “Not so fast Yasutaira-kun!”

  She steps back, eventually dodges my attack. Just like years ago, her reflection is impressive. She can easily move her body like it’s nothing. But just when she’s about to fight back…

  “Oh yeah, then how about this!?”

  I sprint as fast as I can and hit my sword straight to her face. I’m not going to kill her so I only use enough force to essentially corner her. But just when I think I made it…

  “Tsk…she’s fast…”

  She tilts her head just in time to dodge my second blow. As she’s doing that, I can see her really enjoy the moment. Either that or she’s about to pound me so hard her parents might get jealous. I take my sword back, ready to take on anything she might throw at me.

  “Ready or not, here I come!”

  With a speed that I can barely catch up, she comes straight at me, aiming for my chest. I manage to dodge her attack in the nick of time. But it doesn’t stop there…

  “Impressive, but what about this!?”

  Not letting me have time to catch my breath, she’s coming at me like a predator hunting it’s prey. Her moves are potent yet so elegant, there’s no fw in her movement at all. Now switching to my throat, she swings her sword with utter force.

  Just like before, I can’t completely keep up with her, but I somehow evade all of her attacks. I try my best to fight back, but none of my attempts succeed. We keep on cshing with each other for a few minutes, knowing this won’t go anywhere, we decide to split up, read to unch the finishing blow.

  “Gotta say Takenada-san, you’re *hah* *hah* one hell of an opponent…But I’m not giving up yet!”

  “Yeah, me too…Too bad I’ll be the one to take home the victory.”

  “Like hell I’m letting you do that!”

  After a brief conversation, we gear up for one st attack. As usual, I’m in my Ko Gasumi stance, while Takenada-san is also preparing for her attack as well. She’s facing her sword towards me, with her knees are also bending down a little bit.

  We both know that this is our only shot, so the pressure was on. We look at each other with the determination of taking down one another, and when the time comes…

  “Harghh!!!!”

  We scream out our lungs and charge with everything we have. We’re about thirty meters apart from each other, so we have some time to properly hit the target. This time I go for her stomach, as for Takenada-san, based on her sword’s pattern, I’m assuming she’s coming for my face.

  That could be her mind game, or maybe I was right. But either way, the decision has been made, and there’s nothing that can stop us from…

  “Alright you two, just stop already.”

  In just mere seconds, the presence of Takenada-san is no longer there; instead I’m getting pushed down to the ground, not being able to move a single muscle on my body. Eventually, I let go of my sword and accept defeat.

  “Hey Tiamat, what was that? Why did you do this to us?”

  “Because if I don’t Master, both of you might get severe injuries, even worse you two might even wreck the whole training ground up.”

  “What? How is that even possible? I’m pretty sure we didn’t go that far.”

  “My senses said otherwise Master. Or do you not believe in your own servant?”

  “Alright alright, you win. Now can you just let me stand up?”

  “Sure thing Master!”

  Tiamat then let go of me. I quickly grab my sword and get up. It’s a good thing I didn’t get hurt from the battle, but my clothes definitely have some dusty parts on them.

  “So Tiamat, what exactly did you do to Takenada-san?”

  “Her? I just threw her out of the arena. There, take a look.”

  She then points her finger to behind her. Seeing her on the ground, I hurriedly run to her, to see if she’s alright or not. Honestly Tiamat, if you keep interrupting like this, I might get a heart attack, and I don’t like that at all. I should do something about this before things get out of hand to the point of no return.

  “Takenada-san, are you alright? Did you get hurt or anything?”

  “Ow my head…What the hell was that Yasutaira-kun? Where did that come from?”

  “It’s a long story, but now let’s gets you up first. I’m gd that you’re fine.”

  “Yeah, and you’d better come up with a solid story, or else I’ll be mad at you for the rest of your life!”

  “Come on Takenada-san, don’t be like that…”

  As she’s getting up, I expin to her about my situation, about how I met Tiamat and the reason I’m working in the student council, as well as my encounter with Kira a few weeks back.

  “To think that you formed a contract with a mythological creature…”

  “It’s crazy, I know. But she’s not what people assumed to be, she’s actually a really nice person if you get to know her.”

  “I highly doubt that Master.”

  “Oh shut up already. I’m trying to say something nice about you, don’t for once mess this up, I’m begging you.”

  “I know, I know…”

  After the battle, we have decided that it’s best to take a break. I also want Takenada-san to have some time to process all the things I said earlier, but I guess that won’t be necessary.

  “Amazing…I never knew that you can do something like this…I always thought that I’m at my limit, but yet here you are proving me wrong…”

  “Oh young dy, it’s just getting better from here. Watch this!”

  “Woah! Unreal…”

  From what I’ve seen, they’re getting along with each other pretty well. Seeing them happily talk like that is definitely a relief to me. For a while, I was afraid that Tiamat’s existence might stir things up, but I guess I should think of a way to introduce her to more people. Of course, there’s still a lot to discuss with her afterwards, but for now, I’m fine with how things py out.

  “So Yasutaira-kun, can you show me that [Super Strengthen Magic] you mentioned earlier?”

  “Honestly, I wish I could. But here’s the thing: it’s really hard to control, besides you still haven’t showed me your full power, so it’s unfair if I’m the only one doing it. And of course I’m not asking for a second round.”

  Takenada-san got the name [White Princess] due to her being one of the strongest [Light] users in America; at least that’s what I heard from her. Some might say she’s a prodigy or even a reincarnation of Apollo.

  Many people think that it’s just a metaphor or an over-exaggeration, but now that I know someone like Tiamat isn’t just a myth, it might be possible. Either that or I’m just overthinking a little bit too much.

  “Well if you said so, then I guess I have no reason to pressure you at all. But you gotta promise me that you’ll show it someday. I’m really curious!”

  “Don’t worry, I’ve spent eight years keeping our promise. One more won’t be that hard.”

  With that, we part way from each other. She’s going for a tour around the academy so that she can get a better knowing of the pce. As for me, I just got a text from Kariuda-san saying that today’s paperwork is loaded, so I’m heading to the student council room as that is now where I’m currently working for.

  We then say goodbye to each other while we’re getting out of the facility, ending our training section.

  (Kiriwatari-sensei’s POV)

  Right now, I’m inside a secret meeting room that only a number of people can access. There isn’t much going on in this room besides a big oval table with chairs, some emergency food locker and lighting system. You can consider this a panic room or a bunker, but I like to call it a secret room, I just love it that way. As to why I’m here…

  “Thank you everyone for joining me for today’s meeting. I appreciate that everyone can make it in time.”

  I’m hosting the meeting of the high-ranking knights. Ever since the dawn of creation, the ten best knights would be considered [Elite Ten] and therefore have a lot of authorities and power to manage matters around the world. Right now, we’re here altogether to discuss something that might change things forever.

  “Hey, it’s our duty after all. Besides, it’s a meeting between high-ranking knights, of course I’ll have to be here no matter what.”

  “Yeah, to chair a meeting like this ain’t no joke, so there has to be something important, right? Something that would benefit us in way that no meeting had ever done before?”

  “You’re still as sharp as always [Maestro]. Yes, the reason I host this meeting is to discuss about the matter of [Rising Phoenix], as well as a candidate that I found…fascinating.”

  “You’re pnning to recruit someone? That’s rare. You’re more known for being, you know, the lone wolf.”

  “Things changed, [Collector], for the better or worse. The past is in the past, we should all learn how to look forward the future. And speaking of future, there’s something I need you guys to check out.”

  I send them the files that I prepared to their devices. And just in case, I also show the hologram of the files right behind me so that they can catch up with what I’m about to say.

  “Wait…This is…Impossible…”

  “These information…Where did you get them?”

  “Calm down, we’ll get to that ter. Right now, I need you to take a deep look at all of them.”

  What I show them is the basic information regarding the elite fighters of [Rising Phoenix]. I got these from the interrogation of Kira. He told me everything he knew about the organization. Of course since he’s the only person to ever get a hand in it, so the details aren’t too clear, but this is definitely a step up compare to what we’ve known for the st ten years.

  “As you guys can clearly see, these are what I believe to be known as [Chaotic Seven]. As the name implies, they are the seven strongest warriors [Rising Phoenix] has to offer. In a way, they’re simir to us [Elite Ten]. Of course there are still some unknown information regarding them, but this is the closest thing we get to unveil the truth behind the organization.”

  According to Kira’s intel, [Chaotic Seven] includes [Untouchable], [Shadow of The Opera], [Mastermind], [Apocalypse Warlord], [Fallen Angel], [The Monk] and st but not least [Man Hunter]. Some have their faces been revealed, some have not. From their codenames, I can briefly have an idea of their strengths and abilities. But a guess is still a guess, seeing is believing. I’ve seen some unbelievable things in the past, so whatever these guys bring to the table won’t surprise me that much. The real problem is, how can we make them show themselves? And I think I have just the idea…

  “With these information, the investigation will be easier than ever before. At least for now we get to know where to start. And when I said we, I mean we’re going to be more careful with our decisions. We need a pn, step by step, to make them show their true colors and pay for all the damage they’ve done in the past ten years. Starting with this.”

  I switch their profiles to another one. Kariuda-chan is not avaible for the time being as I already gave her a mission, so I have to do things on my own. What I’m showing them is the image of a grand mega center that is about to open in a few weeks. I can see the confusion on their faces as I’m showing it to them.

  “Uhm [Phantom Mist], does that have anything to do with the pn you’re talking about?”

  “Yeah, don’t tell me that your pn is to buy our way to the truth with this mega center?”

  “In a way yes, that is exactly my pn, at least the first brick on the wall.”

  “You can’t be serious, there’s no way this is what we’re gonna do.”

  “Yeah, what’s wrong with you?”

  “Calm down dies and gentlemen, just let me finish my word first. So about the mega center, let’s run down a little history shall we? First off, the owner of the building is the person known as James Miller.”

  “James…”

  “…MILLER?”

  “So you guys don’t live under a rock after all. Yes that James Miller, the multi-billionaire known for being one of the best gemologists mankind has to offer.”

  “Wait, so does that mean…”

  “Yes, this brand new mega center will be the debut of his most ambitious project yet: using the rare mineral called [Chimera] to fuel an entire building.”

  “Amazing…I’ve heard about this. It cost him times and fortunes to make it a reality…”

  “Luckily, he has both. This upcoming grand opening will mark as a ndmark for human evolution, and [Rising Phoenix] knew that.”

  “So they’re targeting the pce to steal [Chimera] from him? Is that what you’re trying to say?” [Maestro] asked.

  “Unfortunately yes. Because of this, our job for now is to protect the power source from the hand of [Rising Phoenix]. We can’t let them have it at any cost.”

  Everyone nod in agreement. They all understand how important this is, as it’s no longer about taking down some terrorist organizations, this is to secure a future for human, to make a small step to the next evolution. And for that, they all raise their hand, wanting to take the mission. But I have another idea…

  “I appreciate your enthusiasm, but I’m not pnning to let you do this mission, as I already put it in the hand of someone I trust…”

  I once again switch the hologram to another one, this time it’s a person’s profile. From raising their hands, everyone starts raising some questions about what’s in front of them.

  “Yasutaira…Waka?”

  “You’re trusting a kid for this kind of mission? Are you out of your mind?”

  I can see the tension in the air coming from them. Honestly, who can really bme them? I let a student take care of this matter rather than a high-ranking knight, of course they’re going to feel some type of way.

  “Now now, you haven’t seen half of the truth. Take a look at the kid and you’ll see why.”

  They all look at Waka’s profile that I prepared beforehand, minus some crucial details just as he asked. As I’m waiting for a response, some of them have realized something…

  “[The Heretic]…So this is him huh…”

  “I can believe he actually did it…Impressive…”

  “That’s right, this is the person that’ll take this mission, Yasutaira Waka. He might be a student, but he has potential for greatness I tell you. In case you don’t know, he had encountered a member of [Rising Phoenix], and not only he won the battle, he’s also the person who helped me getting a hand in these information. He ain’t just some kid, he’s the real deal. And that lead us to the next topic: recruiting Yasutaira Waka to be a low ranking knight for [Knights of Tomorrow]. As usual, if there’s a decision to be made, we need everyone to be on board with it. I hereby shall let the voting round begin. If you agree, please vote “Positive” and “Negative” if you don’t. Those who can’t make a decision, please vote “Neutral”. Please take your time and choose wisely.”

  With that, the voting round has begun. If there are at least five positive votes, then we can officially welcome Yasutaira Waka to our organization, and vice versa. From what I’m seeing, I’m confident that they would love to meet Yasutaira-kun, but I can’t really promise that. All I can do is waiting until they make their final decisions.

  After about five minutes, the result is here. I take a look at it and, be honest to you, I’m a little surprised to see how things py out.

  “Seven positive votes out of ten, with one each for negative and neutral. So it’s clear, the recruitment of Yasutaira Waka is officially permanent. He will now serve as a low-ranking knight for [Knights of Tomorrow]. As always, I’ll handle the paper, but first, let’s hear a few words from the opposing side shall we? Starting with you, [Maestro]. You have a lot of expining to do.”

  “Do I, [Phantom Mist]? You showed me a candidate, I wasn’t impressed with him, I disagreed with you. Is it too complicated?”

  “Oh no, I get it all. What I don’t get is how can your judgement be so wrong at times like this?”

  “Are you trying to imply that my intelligence isn’t up to your par?”

  “What if I tell you that’s the case? Too bad I don’t have the time to roast the living hell out of it, so I won’t push you any further. And now as for the neutral vote, [Divine Doctor], what do you have to say?”

  “Honestly Mist-kun, I really like this kid. I think he has potential, but don’t you think it’s still too soon? I think we should observe this kid for another let’s say a couple months, then I can finally have a verdict. But for now, he’s not entirely in my radar.”

  “I see. At least you give some sorts of constructive criticism, unlike someone…”

  “Hey I’m still here you know?”

  “Well then, final decision: Yasutaira Waka will be joining our organization in the near future. As for the information regarding [Rising Phoenix], since it’ll inevitably change the course of future events, I reckon we should change our mission, shifting more towards bringing them to light as soon as possible. They have been in the shadow, lording over people for too long now. This time, we’ll make sure they are going to pay for what they’ve done!”

  Everyone nod agreeably. Each of us know that the sooner we deal with them the better, so everyone is determined to do whatever it takes to make it happen. After some other minor discussions involve operating budget and management, we end our meeting. All of the members besides me start getting out of the room, going on their separate ways back to their own pces. As for me, as a bad habit, I light up a cigarette and in just a few minutes, the room is filled with nothing but smoke.

  “Hah, I should think about giving up smoking, it’s getting a little out of control recently…”

  “Have you ever considered picking up another hobby of your own?”

  “Oh yeah, I almost forgot about you…Tiamat.”

  In the corner of the room, there’s a beautiful dy with red crimson hair and bck suits. She’s none other than Tiamat, the legendary dragon that only exists in myths, at least until a few weeks ago. It took me some times to accept it, but now I no longer feel weird about it. She has been in this room since the beginning of the meeting, observing the whole scenery while using [Illusion] to cover herself so that none of the members can sense her or trace her down. She said that she wanted to make sure that things would go on just as she pleased. I’m a bit jealous with what she’s capable of, but it’s useless standing a chance against her if she ever thinks about getting serious in a fight.

  “I’ve seen you guys worked and I gotta tell, it’s definitely better than the not-so-good old days.”

  “I’ll take it as a compliment. So is there anything you draw from our conversation?”

  “Quite a few actually. But you have to promise me to not spilling the beans. You of all people should know this, am I right?”

  “Don’t worry, when it comes to information, I’m not goofing around. So what is it that you want to tell me?”

  “First off, about the [Chaotic Seven], I must say, they’re quite interesting…”

  “In what regard may I ask?”

  “You see, I can easily break them in half if I want to, but of course I can’t just go out killing uncontrolbly, Master won’t definitely tolerate such action, but at the same time, they can be quite an opponent if you underestimate them.”

  “So what you’re saying is we should keep a close eye on their abilities?”

  “Exactly. I may be able to handle them as easy as a child’s py, but the same can’t be applied to any of you, so until then, this might sound a little too na?ve, you guys gotta have to be stronger. I don’t care how, just please do it.”

  “I’ll put it on the list. What else do you got?”

  “Second, the grand supermarket that you mentioned, more specifically [Chimera], there’s something odd about that…”

  “And that is?”

  “You see, [Chimera] was still a thing back in my days, but that thing was about as rare as what human called [Ptinum], yet this man has enough to power up an entire building.”

  “So either he’s been digging them for so long or he just somehow found the right pce to exploit them?”

  “Yeah, and I can’t quite tell which one is more accurate. I’m quite curious about it, and so do [Rising Phoenix].”

  “I get it. I’ll contact him, tell him to at least triple the security.”

  “Alright, one st thing before I leave: you’d better watch each other’s back. You never know who would one day join the other side of the coin, so just be careful with whatever you do in the future.”

  “I see, thank you for your advice.”

  “It’s nothing really. I only do this because of my master’s safety, your organization ain’t my business, all of you can decide your own fate, so don’t you dare mess things up, because if you do, I’ll find you, and I’ll give you fate worse than death.”

  She said as she left the scene. Like a yer of mist, one moment ago she’s there, now she isn’t. The way she comes and goes really reminds me of myself. As expected from an entity beyond our league, she can just pull off seemingly anything.

  “Well, there goes our trump card. Now, let’s just stretch out a lil bit shall we? I’m starting to get sick of sitting in one pce.”

  With a cigarette still on my mouth, I get off the room, carefully pnning for my next moves.

  “Hey Tiamat, quick question.”

  “Hmm? What is it Master?”

  “Why on earth are you here?”

  “I’m your servant Master, it just makes sense that I have to be here.”

  “While I’m bathing? Are you out of your mind?”

  “Oh come on Master, don’t be shy. Besides I heard this is the way Japanese people bond with each other.”

  “No it is not. Also don’t you think that two people with opposite gender taking a bath together are weird?”

  For some reasons, Tiamat decided to join me while I’m taking a shower. The idea itself is about as weird as my encounter with her, not because of the fact that it comes straight out of an anime, but you have to consider that I can totally see her entire naked body, despite having a towel on her.

  “Nah Master, you just imagine things. Now let me wash your back!”

  “Like hell I’m letting you do that. I can do it all by myself!”

  “Please Master, I know that all the training and studying got you all gassed up, so at least let me help you with something.”

  She’s really persistent isn’t she? Honestly, I still feel weird about the idea of letting her do it, but at the same time, I don’t hate it. She might use this opportunity to seduce me or do something inappropriate, or maybe she just want to help me release the stress. I can’t really create any difficulties for her, that’ll go against her will.

  “Fine, you can wash my back for me. But let me do the rest OK? Also next time if you feel like helping me, just ask before doing it. After all, you still need my approval don’t you?”

  “Thanks Master! I’ll start doing it right now!”

  As I’m sitting down on my small chair, she starts spreading the shampoo to her hands and rubbing my back. Her soft hand combine with the gentle movement really makes this a massage rather than shower. I know that her body is the definition of perfection, but this sensation…is just beyond magnificent.

  “What’s the matter Master? Why the red face?”

  “You know exactly why Tiamat, just hurry up already.”

  “Ufufufu, I’m satisfying you, right Master? How about we take things to the next level?”

  “Stop messing around, I’m serious!”

  “Hahahaha, I knew that you would react like this Master! Don’t worry, I’m joking. You’re not old enough, so there’s no way I’m doing that. Alright, here comes the water.”

  She then washes my back with the showerhead. I’m gd that she didn’t take things too far, or else I might lose control of myself. Who knows what I could do to her. But there’s something I would totally do to her today no matter what.

  “Hey Tiamat, about the thing I said earlier this day…”

  “That? You want to tell me now?”

  “Well you see, my pn was to talk about it while we’re eating, but since you’re already here, I guess this ain’t a bad time at all.”

  “Well if you said so…Then please Master, go on with it.”

  “OK. But first can you grab me my towel?”

  “Let me get that for you.”

  Tiamat then gives the towel to me so I can dry myself. After that, I put on the towel as I’m getting out of the bathroom. Tiamat follows me right behind while I’m heading to the closet.

  “So the matter that I wanna talk about is the [Almighty Realm]. I think there’s a few issues with it.”

  “And those are Master?”

  “Well for starters, the whole realm is nothing but a white void isn’t it? I know for a fact that the realm reflects the owner’s inner self, and you’re better than just a white void full of emptiness and madness.”

  “I see…”

  “You can create anything out of thin air can you? How about you make something to fill up the realm? Maybe change its name too?”

  “Really? I’m allowed to do it?”

  “Of course! You’re my servant after all. You’ve been living like hell for way too long, you need more to your life than that bnd whiteness surrounding you.”

  “Thank you so much Master!”

  She suddenly hugs me just after I put on my clothes. She still hasn’t changed so it makes this a really awkward situation. Luckily, I don’t mind it.

  “Hey, at least changes first will you?”

  “Oh sorry, let me just…”

  In just a few seconds, the towel is repced with a pajama. It’s just a simple one with pink color and heart pattern all over it. It looks really nice on her, I won’t lie.

  “All right Master, what about the other thing?”

  “Well…It might sound weird but…Do you want to sleep in, you know, anywhere else but my sword?”

  “Oh my Master, never knew you were this bold…”

  “I’m serious Tiamat, like I said earlier, you deserve better, and I don’t mind sharing my bed with a woman, I’m totally prepared for it.”

  “Well, I can’t say no, can I? If that’s the case, then I’ll gdly take it.”

  After that, we sleep together in my lovely and comfortable bed. Of course we spend the whole night training as always, and for some reasons I feel more productive as ever. Maybe there’s something inside me that has finally been awaken, or it’s just me imagine things. But at least I end the day on a high note, and that’s all I need to know.