Issei was right, he really shouldn't have thanked Renka. She put him through the ringer.
What was supposed to be an hour of training turned into two and a half hours of nonstop torture. A small part of him didn't mind, being alone with a beautiful girl was something his old self would've celebrated but he shoved those thoughts away. He wasn't here to reenact one of the pornos he used to watch. He was here to change.
Renka started him with warm‑ups: high knees, butt kickers, jumping jacks, doing twenty reps each. High knees and butt kickers were twenty per leg. Then she had him hit the body bag to assess his form.
It was terrible. Not surprising, considering the only "fight" he'd ever been in was the beating he took yesterday.
Without hesitation, Renka dragged him out to the track. Some club members laughed, assuming she was about to beat him up. Kenichi, Mizunuma, the bronze‑skinned guy, and Shigure didn't laugh. They watched quietly.
Renka put him through interval training. Going from one minute sprinting to one minute walking for thirty minutes straight.
Then came calisthenics.
Push‑ups: four sets of twenty‑five.
Air squats: four sets of twenty.
Bench dips: four sets of fifteen.
Lunges: four sets of ten per leg.
His arms burned. His legs burned. His core burned. Even if Renka suddenly decided to jump him like in one of his old videos, he doubted he could get it up as his body was too exhausted.
He envied Goku. That guy could train for hours without stopping.
Issei made a mental note. 'I need stamina. Lots of it.'
Renka found a chin‑up bar next. Issei paled.
She smirked. "If you'd used both hands when jerking off, you'd have equal muscle mass."
That one hurt. But deep down, he knew she was doing it on purpose, using his anger to push him. Using his shame to break the perverted shell he'd buried himself in.
He gritted his teeth and did the chin‑ups. Four sets of eight. By the end, he collapsed on the grass, writhing in pain. Renka stood over him with two bottles of water.
"Not bad," she said. "But you still have two more exercises. Then we can take an ice bath."
"Ice… ah… bath?" he wheezed.
"Yep. Tubs filled with ice water."
"What… good… does that… do?" He continued to wheeze.
"It reduces muscle soreness, improves blood flow, and boosts mental health." She told him, knowing that he wasn't familiar with aftermath of physical exercise.
"How…?"
"The cold shocks your sympathetic nervous system. Releases adrenaline. Then endorphins."
"Endorphins?"
"Your body's natural 'feel‑good' hormones. Like after you masturbate. How do you feel then?"
Issei turned red. "I'd rather not talk about my masturbation habits."
"Hey, you asked." Renka shrugged.
"I just… don't want reminders of who I'm trying to stop being."
Renka fell silent. She knew teasing him too much would make him shut down again. She hated the silent treatment. She wanted him to talk to her and not hide.
They sat in the grass. Issei looked away, lost in thought. Renka crawled toward him. By the time he noticed, it was too late as she pushed him onto his back.
"Ah!" he winced, grabbing at the bruise Ukita had left. "What the hell!?"
He glared up at her but saw something unexpected in her eyes. There was concern and worry, which surprised him, since no other girl looked at him like that.
"Issei…" she said softly.
"What?" he growled.
Renka hesitated. She wanted to say something meaningful. Something supportive. Something that showed she cared. Instead, she wasn't going to let him backtalk her like that.
"Sit‑ups. Three sets of twenty‑five. Then lying leg raises. Three sets of twenty per leg."
She wanted to smack herself. Issei blinked, confused. He didn't understand why she looked so conflicted. Why she cared at all. He was the school pervert, after all.
But he did the exercises anyway.
Renka prepared the ice baths, smacking herself in the face once he wasn't looking.
"Issei, come over here," she called once he finished.
He walked over, silent again.
"Get in," she said, stepping into one tub.
Issei removed his shoes and socks, then eased into the other tub. The cold hit him like a punch. He tensed, ready to leap out, but Renka stopped him.
"Ease into it. Don't jump in. It helps you adjust." She told him.
He gripped the edges, teeth chattering, but slowly sank in. The cold numbed his soreness little by little.
"Better, huh?" Renka asked.
He nodded. They sat in silence, soaking in the fading sunlight.
"Okay," Renka finally said. "Time to hit the showers. You did good today, Issei. We've still got a long way to go."
"Renka‑senpai," he said quietly, "how long did Kenichi‑senpai train to get where he is?"
"Oh, about two years."
"Grr… damn it."
"Hey. What did I say? Stop comparing yourself to others. You'll only find flaws. Besides, I already have a workout plan for you. You're training twice a day."
"Twice?"
"Yep. Early morning and club hours. You'll be sore as hell, but the more you work, the less you'll feel it."
"I'll… take your word for it."
"Look on the bright side. You could be the strongest in your grade. Didn't you notice you're one of the few underclassmen here?" She hinted at another one being present, but she decided to let Issei meet that person himself.
"I didn't know. I haven't talked to anyone but you and Kenichi‑senpai."
"Oh? Then I can..."
"No thanks." Issei declined.
Renka blinked. "Huh?"
"I just… want to focus on myself. And my training."
"Then how are you going to make new friends?"
"I… haven't thought about it. You already mocked me for my perversion. Who would want to be friends with the Perverted Beast?"
Renka frowned. He had a point.
"Why don't you come with the club this weekend?" she offered.
"No. I have plans."
"Really?"
"Yes." He growled slightly, expecting her to accuse him of watching porn but she didn't.
He actually did have plans but now that he was sore, he wouldn't be going to the anime store today. He'd go this weekend. Maybe look into natural supplements. Asking Elize‑sensei for her opinion.
"If you insist," Renka said. "I won't be there anyway, I have work. Just figured I'd invite you. Come on."
She stood up from her tub, which made Issei look up, and he was in shock at he saw. Her shirt was soaked and she wasn't wearing anything underneath.
He caught a brief glimpse of her nipple before he snapped his head away, grateful for the cold water hiding his reaction. Her entire body looked incredible from toned legs, firm curves, a well‑rounded backside.
Then he looked at himself. He was scrawny, bruised, but overall, weak. He felt insecure. He never used to. Well, not when he hid behind perversion. But now… he wanted to look good. For himself.
He remembered Renka's words about comparing himself to others. He was doing it again. But he also felt something else and that was a drive. He wanted to grow. To change. To become someone better.
"Hey!" Renka snapped.
"Huh?" Issei jerked his head up, pulled from his thoughts.
"Get out of there," Renka called. "Unless you want hypothermia."
"Right!" Issei stood too fast. Pain shot up his back and he winced. Renka caught it immediately.
"What's up with your back? None of the exercises should've done that."
"Ukita‑senpai flipped me over his shoulder before I went into the changing room," Issei muttered. "Like I said… no one wants to be friends with the Perverted Beast."
Renka's expression darkened. "I'll talk to Kenichi about..."
"No." Issei shook his head. "I can handle it."
Renka studied him for a moment, then nodded. "I believe you will. Right now, you're the weakest member of the club. Before you joined, that title belonged to him."
"I'll beat him," Issei said quietly. "It'll take time… but I will."
"You better," Renka smirked, drying herself with a towel. "Since you're kind of my student."
"Uh‑huh. See you tomorrow, senpai." He turned to leave.
"Wait, Issei?" She called after him.
He stopped. "What now?"
"I need to give you your workout schedule."
"Oh. Right." Issei was embarrassed that he forgot about that.
"Shower up and meet me outside the changing rooms."
"Got it."
Issei jogged off... well, as much as his battered body allowed.
Renka emptied the ice baths, her thoughts drifting. She wanted to tell Kenichi what Ukita had done. But she knew she'd lose Issei's trust if she did. And for some reason… she didn't want that.
There was something intriguing about him. Something buried under the perversion and shame. Something she wanted to understand.
A pity she couldn't ask his childhood friend for insight. For now, she'd honor Issei's wishes as she headed to the showers.
Issei checked the area carefully before retrieving his belongings from the secret locker. He needed a proper lock soon. The warm shower felt heavenly after the ice bath, and he let out a long sigh. His back still ached. He'd have to ask Elize‑sensei about it later.
He couldn't wear his usual red shirt as it was drenched in sweat, so he buttoned up his uniform shirt instead. Once dressed, he stepped out of the changing room.
He considered leaving… but that felt like giving up. And Renka would definitely think he'd given up. So, he waited for his senior to finish. There was that small urge in his mind to peep on her, but he pushed those temptations back.
He checked his phone and saw that he had several messages from his mom. He'd stayed later than he realized.
'Once I get stronger, I won't have to stay this late. Kaa-san won't worry so much.'
He was grateful for her. She, his grandmother, and childhood friend's mother were the only women who ever tolerated his perversion.
And now, thanks to the adults guiding him, he was finally changing.
"Man… I wish you were still here, Shidou," he whispered.
"Who's Shidou?" A voice brought him out of his thinking.
Issei jumped. He hadn't sensed Renka at all.
"No one," he said quickly.
Renka frowned. She expected that. He was guarded and painfully so. After all, his "friends" had betrayed him, recorded his beating, and spread it around the school. Of course he didn't trust anyone.
She handed him a small notebook. "Here's your workout schedule. Well… not just mine."
"What do you mean?" he asked, flipping through it.
"Kenichi added some of his own routines."
"Oh. When did you have time to make this?"
"Lunch. After you walked off, I tried to find you, but you were gone. So I waited after class."
"I see. Thanks." He turned to leave, but Renka grabbed his wrist and pulled him back.
"Look," she said, meeting his eyes. "You and I are going to be stuck together for a while. So I'm cutting this out now. I hope, in time, you can open up to me. I know you don't trust people. But I hope that somewhere down the line… we can be friends."
Issei stared at her. Then he looked away.
"Yeah, right." Issei scoffed.
"Huh?"
"Being close to me will only hurt your social standing. Thanks for the workouts. I hope your teachings help me."
He gently removed her hand and walked away. Renka stood still as she processed his tone.
His eyes… They weren't angry. They were sad. He truly believed no one would ever want to be his friend.
Now she was even more determined to figure out who he really was beneath that perverted exterior. She'd seen his intent to learn. His frustration at his own weakness. His desire to grow.
She could help him. She would help him. That's what a senpai does.
Issei headed toward the tree he used to hang out under, just in case Renka came looking again. He leaned against it and texted his mother that he was done with practice, sore but safe.
He didn't notice Renka watching him from afar before she left the school grounds. When he finally sensed someone watching, she was already gone.
Then he heard grunts coming from the old school building. Curious, he approached. Peeking around the corner, he saw Yuuto Kiba swinging a sword. A real sword.
'I thought weapons weren't allowed on school grounds…'
For a moment, Issei considered taking a picture and sending it to the Student Council. Then he remembered how they treated him. They'd call it fake. Make him apologize and punish him instead.
He shook his head and walked away. Crossing the bridge, he glanced toward the abandoned church. A chill ran down his spine. Something about it felt… wrong.
It reminded him of going to mass with Shidou. He found it strange that no one had replaced Shidou's father after they left Kuoh. The church had been empty ever since.
'Maybe I should pray tonight,' he thought. 'Shidou always said good things came to those who prayed.'
He finally reached home as his mother was finishing dinner.
"Ise, you're back!" Miki smiled. "How was it?"
"I have a long way to go," he said, easing himself into a chair.
"Your school called about your detention."
"Yeah. But I have it at lunch. I'll be with the nurse. She's cool."
"So what happened? You're not usually violent."
"Motohama and Matsuda acted like they didn't make me the biggest laughingstock in school. Dumped their porn on my desk. I asked them to leave. They didn't. Next thing I know, I punched Motohama. Then Matsuda. Then the Student Council secretary mocked me. School sucked… except lunch."
"What happened at lunch?"
"I asked to have detention during lunch so I wouldn't miss training. I needed a staff supervisor, so I asked the nurse who helped me yesterday. She accepted. We talked about Dragon Ball and Gundam. Another teacher was there, she liked Gundam."
Miki smiled. "Sounds like joining the martial arts club was a good idea. Might help you get that anger out... or at least use it properly."
"I guess so."
"Any word on the boys who beat you up?"
"They're doing nothing. No one cares about the Perverted Beast." Issei shrugged.
"And I'll tell you this," Miki said firmly. "They will. In time. You'll come out on top. Have faith."
"…Okay."
"Oh, and you got workouts from your senpai?"
"Yeah. My body's killing me, but once I get stronger, it'll hurt less."
"That's good. Make any new friends?"
"No. Can't trust anyone these days."
"What about your senpai?"
"He was busy. But I met his girlfriend's father."
"Oh? What was he like?"
"Powerful," Issei said, eyes shining. "I want to get to his level one day."
Miki laughed softly. "Hopefully you're not thinking of replacing your father."
Issei shook his head. "Of course not. That's why I'm learning computers. I want to work in tech like tou‑san. Fūrinji‑senpai's dad looked like a businessman, he wore a suit. I wonder if I can do both… technology and business."
"I'm sure there are degrees for that," Miki said. "But that's for university."
"I know. And I barely scraped by last year. I'll need to focus extra hard now. Back then, I only had my perverted guts pushing me forward. Now…"
She tilted her head. "Now what?"
"I'm not sure." He looked down at his hands. "I revised my dream. I don't think I can be the strongest fighter. Not yet. I've got a long way to go. But… I can try to be the best fighter in my grade."
"That's the spirit!" Miki beamed. "Sometimes you have to dream small to dream big."
"Right." He smiled faintly. "Oh and how was your day, kaa‑san?"
"Not too bad. I made an account online to start selling your porn. I didn't know some of it was limited edition."
"Yeah… that's why I kept them. They were rare."
"I found your receipts while cleaning your room. Good thing everything was in mint condition. I got your money back on some, and others sold for more than you paid."
"Nice. I can use that to buy athletic tape. And maybe look into recovery supplements."
"Don't put drugs in your body." Miki scolded him.
"I won't. I'll ask Elize‑sensei what's safe. And… I'm thinking of getting a part‑time job."
"Really?"
"Yeah. It'll keep me busy. Teach me responsibility. I need that."
Miki nodded thoughtfully. "Then maybe I'll look into getting my old job back. After you're settled."
"It'd make things easier. You used to work at tou‑san's company."
"Yep. We hit it off there. Maybe you'll find someone at your workplace too."
"As long as it's not here," Issei muttered. "Every girl at school hates me. Renka‑senpai just tolerates me."
"Renka‑senpai?" Miki's eyes twinkled.
"She trained me today. Gave me the workouts."
"So you did make a friend."
"No. It was more like… an apology."
"An apology? For what?"
"She said my perversion is why Shidou left. And… part of me believes her."
"Oh, honey." Miki's expression softened. "Don't believe that. You know Touji‑ojisan worked with the church."
"I know. But the fact that we haven't kept in contact… it makes me wonder."
"They were sheltered. They only interacted with us."
"Do you think… one day… we could go to England? See them?"
"Of course," she said, pulling him into a hug and ruffling his hair. "One day we will. Now go get ready for dinner. Your father will be home soon."
Issei prepared his desk for later, then helped set the table. Gorou arrived shortly after, and the three of them ate together, sharing stories from their day.
Gorou was proud of him. Proud he'd joined the mixed martial arts club, proud he'd survived his first training session. Both parents teased him about Renka, but Issei quickly shut that down. He knew she liked Kenichi. And besides… he wasn't looking for that.
He talked about meeting Saiga, and how powerful the man felt. He hoped that in two years, he could reach Kenichi's level. Maybe even surpass it.
But opening up to people… that was still hard. He'd have to keep his cards close this time.
After dinner, Issei returned to his room to check his schoolwork. He wasn't the smartest student, but he hoped for at least a B‑ or B average this year.
Then he opened his notebook and began writing.
Issei's Notes:
Former dream: scrapped.
New dream: be the best fighter among the 2nd years at Kuoh Academy.
Follow Kenichi‑senpai's workout plan. Grateful for kaa‑san, tou‑san, Elize‑sensei, Yu‑Mi‑san. Grateful for Kenichi‑senpai and Renka‑senpai for the workouts.
Positives: Renka‑senpai tolerated me and gave me more workouts.
Negatives: made a new enemy, Ukita‑senpai.
Kisara (or whoever she was) looked attractive, but she's into him. I won't get in the way.
Glad I didn't peep yesterday. Still got beaten up because of those two idiots. Can't trust the student council.
Kiba uses swords, be careful around him.
He added the note about Yuuto's swordsmanship, just in case.
Since he no longer had his perverted alarm clock, he set multiple alarms on his phone. He placed a small Gundam figure on his desk, it was one he planned to give Yu‑Mi if she liked the manga.
He felt… organized. More than usual. He wrote a final note thanking his grandmother for teaching him to write down his thoughts.
Then he went to bed, wincing from the day's training.
Issei woke early the next morning, earlier than his alarm. Checking his phone, he saw that it was 4:45 a.m.
Kenichi's workout plan required equipment. There was a gym nearby and he figured that he could jog there for his warm‑up.
He washed his face, changed into gym shorts and a sweatshirt, grabbed his wallet, notebook, and two bottles of water, and headed out the door.
The jog was refreshing, despite the soreness. He drank water before and after arriving. The gym building looked intimidating. He'd never been here before. He steeled himself and walked in.
A few people were already inside. One of them he recognized, it was the bronze‑skinned guy with light blue hair from the club. He was talking to the cute brunette receptionist. Both turned when Issei entered.
"Hey, welcome to Sijiganeiri Fitness," the receptionist said. "Are you new?"
"Uh… yes."
"Here, fill out this form. If you like it, you can sign up for a membership."
"Okay."
As he filled it out, someone spoke to him.
"I never thought you'd be here," the bronze guy said.
"Huh?" Issei looked up.
The receptionist blinked. "You know him, Ikki‑kun?"
Ikki Takeda smirked. "Yeah. This is Hyoudou Issei. One of the local perverts at our school."
The receptionist's expression soured. Issei felt his stomach drop. He considered leaving.
Ikki continued, "Hey, he was with Renka Ma the whole time yesterday. Didn't ogle her. And she's pretty attractive. But not as cute as you." He winked.
The receptionist blushed. "Thanks…"
'Really? Personally, I think Renka-senpai's better looking.' Issei thought, but he wasn't going to say that out loud.
"Don't worry," Ikki said. "I'll watch over him, Hikari‑chan."
"Thanks, Ikki‑kun." She took Issei's form, though her eyes still judged him.
Ikki turned to him. "So… what brings you here, Hyoudou?"
"I'm just here to do the workout Kenichi‑senpai gave me."
Ikki grinned. "I'll join you. What's first?"
"Um… incline bench press," Issei said, checking his notebook.
"Oh? Upper‑body work, nice!" Ikki grinned and motioned for him to follow. "Let me show you where that is."
He guided Issei to the station, grabbed a metal knob, and pulled it out with practiced ease. The bench clicked upward to a forty‑five‑degree angle.
"This is how you adjust it," Ikki explained. "So, what exactly did Kenichi give you?"
"Huh? Oh, here." Issei opened his notebook and handed it over.
Ikki skimmed the page and whistled. "Not bad. Kenichi knows his stuff. Let's start you with something light for a warm‑up."
"Okay."
Issei grabbed a pair of 20‑pound dumbbells. They felt light, but his arms were still sore from yesterday. Still, the weight in his hands gave him a small surge of adrenaline. He completed twelve reps, feeling the stiffness in his arms loosen slightly.
"Nice," Ikki said, grabbing a pair of 50‑pound dumbbells for himself. He knocked out his set with ease. "So… you and Renka?"
Issei blinked. "There's nothing between us. If you're interested in her, I can find someone else to mentor me. I don't want a repeat of yesterday and getting attacked."
Ikki snorted. "Hey, I'm not like Kōzō."
"Oh… right. You're Ukita‑senpai's friend."
"Best friend, actually." Ikki smirked. "And you kinda remind me of my old buddy Taichi Koga. He liked beautiful women and wanted a harem. Sound familiar?"
Issei shook his head. "Actually… that's not my dream anymore. I just want to be the best fighter in my grade."
Ikki's grin widened. "Nice. Atta boy! And don't worry, no one's gonna give you trouble about Renka. Honestly, we all used to like Miu, but Kenichi's got her. I've got a girl in college. Kaname's her name. She fights with a staff."
"Then why were you hitting on the receptionist?"
Ikki froze. "…You're right. I can be cocky. Shouldn't have done that."
"You should tell your girlfriend," Issei said bluntly. "If there's no honesty, it won't end well."
Ikki stared at him and then laughed. "Damn, Hyoudou. Didn't know you were a relationship counselor. But hey, if you want, I can put in a word with Hikari for you. She's cute, right?"
"I guess," Issei muttered. "But I'm not looking for that. I just want to focus on my dream."
They continued their incline dumbbell bench presses: three sets of twelve.
"Huh," Ikki said suddenly. "Mizunuma was right."
"About what?" Issei asked.
"That you're trying to change."
They moved on to incline dumbbell flys. Ikki corrected Issei's form, guiding his elbows, adjusting his grip. Then came the hex press, same sets, same reps. Issei even moved up to 30‑pound dumbbells.
Afterward came diamond push‑ups, three sets to failure. Issei's arms trembled violently by the end.
"Take a break," Ikki said. "Get some water."
Issei gulped down half his bottle. "Takeda‑senpai… what's your dream?"
"Hey, man, call me Ikki. And my dream? To be a boxing champion."
"You box? That's cool."
"If you want, we can come earlier. Do your workouts, then some boxing training."
Issei's eyes lit up. "That would be amazing. Renka‑senpai is building me up for Chinese kenpo."
"Well, that's her specialty. But hey... if you and Renka hit it off, you'd be doing Kenichi a favor. Plenty of girls like him, but he only sees Miu."
"Renka‑senpai's going to be stuck with him for a while," Issei muttered.
Ikki laughed. "Good thing I've dealt with Taichi. Otherwise I wouldn't know how to talk to you. You don't hold grudges like he did."
"Is that why you stopped being friends?"
"Yeah. Something like that. Kōzō and I dipped after that. Anyway, what's next?"
Issei checked the notebook. "Overhead press, hang cleans, upright rows… then barbell shrugs to failure."
"Nice. We've got time. Let's roll."
Ikki coached him through each movement, adjusting his posture, correcting his grip, making sure he increased weight when needed. Issei's muscles burned, but he pushed through.
Hikari watched them from the desk. Issei ignored her. He knew he'd be judged for a while. That was the price of his reputation.
"Another set done," Ikki said. "Get water. Last set?"
"Yeah… they're… all triceps…" Issei panted. "Overhead cable extensions… pushdowns… kickbacks… three sets of twelve…"
"That's not bad. How's your body holding up?"
"Sore…"
"Good. Means you're working. Come on."
They finished the triceps exercises. By the end, Issei was exhausted and barely able to stand.
At the front desk, Hikari smiled politely. "Did you enjoy your time?"
"We did," Ikki said. "But we've got morning classes. Thanks, Hikari‑chan. Oh and he wants a membership."
"Really?" She looked at Issei, surprised.
Ikki smirked. "Don't think I didn't notice you checking him out."
"I was checking you out," she said, blushing.
"Sorry," Ikki said. "I've got a girlfriend. Didn't mean to lead you on. But I know some guys who might like you and if you're not interested in him." He thumbed toward Issei.
"Well… you did call him a pervert."
"Yeah, but he just appreciates women. A little too honestly. It's literally the meaning of his name."
Hikari sighed. "Membership is 1000 yen a month."
Ikki turned to Issei. "Hey, Issei."
"Huh?" Issei had been dozing off.
"You got 1000 yen?" Ikki asked.
"Uh… yeah. Why?" Issei wondered, while catching his breath.
"For your membership." Ikki answered.
Hikari took the money. "Thank you. You'll get an email with a temporary password. You can change it later."
"Thanks," Issei said.
"Hey, Issei," Ikki said. "Wait outside."
"Why can't I just leave?" He groaned.
"I'll drive you home. Makes things easier."
"Oh. Thanks, Ikki‑senpai." Issei stepped outside.
Ikki leaned on the counter. "Look… he may be a pervert, but he's trying to change. Cut him some slack. I've dealt with someone like him before and that guy held grudges and ruined our friendship. You don't have to date him but be friendly. The other perverts got him beaten up by blaming him for something they did. Mizunuma told me. I trust him."
Hikari softened. "Alright. If you say so. And… if things don't work out with your girlfriend… call me." She slipped him her number.
Ikki took it politely, knowing he'd never use it. "Thanks." He walked out. "Come on, Issei."
They got into his car, and Issei directed him as best as he could to his home in his tired state.
"Thanks, Ikki‑senpai." Issei said when they arrived.
"Go shower, cold water. Wake yourself up. Eat something. Then we'll head out." Ikki instructed.
"But you'll be late."
"Nah. I've got study hall. I'll hang with Kaname. And hey, keep this up, and you'll get a girlfriend too."
"I'm not interested." Issei blushed at the prospect.
Ikki laughed. "Maybe. But once you get built, girls will notice."
"Not if they know my reputation. That's why I don't see myself with anyone from Kuoh."
"Well… Renka isn't from Kuoh." Ikki teased.
"No thanks."
Ikki burst out laughing as Issei got out of the car.
'He's definitely more interesting than Taichi.' Ikki thought.
He'd heard about Issei's "harem king" dream. Thought it was funny. But after the beatdown video, something in Issei had changed. Mizunuma saw it too and those same eyes he and Kenichi once had when they were bullied.
But unlike them, Issei stayed guarded.
Fifteen minutes later, Issei came out with a piece of toast in his mouth.
"Ready?" Ikki asked.
"Hang on." Issei checked his things, making sure he had the Gundam model. "Okay. I'm good."
"Let's go."
The drive was quiet because Ikki didn't tease him about girls as he knew better now. But he did notice the Gundam model.
"So... you're into Gundam?" Ikki asked.
Issei nodded. "Yeah. I've always liked robots and battleships. And Dragon Ball."
"Nice. Thinking of doing something with tech?"
"Yeah. My dad works for a tech company. I want to follow in his footsteps."
"Is that why you joined the mixed martial arts club?" Ikki asked as he drove. "Dragon Ball?"
"Somewhat," Issei replied. "It also took some talks with Kenichi‑senpai, Elize‑sensei, and my parents. I almost didn't join because of something Renka‑senpai said… but that would've made me a quitter. And I don't want to be that."
"Oh?" Ikki raised a brow. "What'd she say?"
"I don't want to talk about it."
'So she ticked him off,' Ikki thought. 'No wonder he's not ogling her.'
They pulled into the school parking lot. Issei unbuckled and stepped out.
"Thanks for the ride, Ikki‑senpai."
"Hold up." Ikki handed him a slip of paper.
"What's this?"
"My number. I can pick you up in the mornings, take you to the gym, help you with Kenichi's workouts, and drop you off here like today."
"You mean that? I don't want to intrude on your schedule."
"Think of it as a welcome‑to‑the‑club gift." Ikki grinned. "You're not that bad, Issei. Once people get to know you, they'll see that. I mean, I didn't know you were into manga. Not my thing, but it shows you've got other interests like tech."
"Oh…" Issei processed his senpai's words.
"And hey, you're way better than Taichi ever was." Ikki complimented. "Just be ready, you'll feel tired waking up early. But once it becomes routine, you'll feel the difference."
"Yeah… I used to stay up late playing games. Haven't done that since I decided to change."
"It'll be for the better. And don't worry, I'll teach you some boxing moves too."
"Thanks. Anyway, I gotta go. Thanks again for the ride."
Issei headed toward the school.
He didn't notice the group of Kenichi, Miu, Renka, and Mizunuma approaching as they all stared curiously at Ikki's car.
Kenichi called out, "Hey, Ikki!"
"Oh, what's up?" Ikki greeted.
"Did you just drop off Issei?" Kenichi pointed in the direction of where Issei had gone off.
"Yeah. Met him at the gym this morning. He was doing the workouts you gave him, so I coached him on form."
Mizunuma nodded approvingly. "That's good."
Ikki smirked and shot a look at Renka. "Even better, he opened up to me."
Renka's eyes narrowed. "What do you mean?"
"Did you know he's into manga? Gundam and Dragon Ball. He likes tech and wants to follow his dad into a tech company. His love for robots and battleships comes from Gundam."
Renka pouted. "He never told me that."
Ikki crossed his arms. "What did you say to him, Renka? He said he almost didn't join the club because of something you told him."
All eyes turned to her.
Renka sighed. "He talked about a childhood friend. I teased that his perversion might've been why they left. His mood changed. I apologized like Kenichi told me to but sometimes he gave me the silent treatment. Still… he listened to everything I told him."
Ikki laughed. "Maybe you should wear that Chinese dress you use to get Kenichi's attention."
Miu giggled. "Renka and the pervert. How romantic."
"Be nice, Miu," Kenichi said.
Ikki shrugged. "He kinda reminds me of Taichi."
Everyone cringed.
"Oh yeah," Miu muttered. "Taichi wanted a harem too."
Ikki shook his head. "Difference is that Taichi had a crush on you. Issei hasn't even ogled you once, Miu. Makes me think he was telling the truth about not peeping yesterday. There's some moral code in there."
Renka crossed her arms. "He didn't ogle me at all yesterday."
"Really?" Miu asked.
"Yeah." Renka nodded. "He was focused. He completed every workout. We were here for two and a half hours. He didn't half‑ass anything."
Ikki nodded. "Same at the gym. He's focused on his dream."
"Which is?" Miu asked.
"He wants to be the best fighter in his grade," Ikki said. "Could be good for the club. Might attract younger students."
Kenichi smiled. "That's true. Shows we can help students grow. And it'll keep the club alive, since most of us are third years."
Mizunuma agreed. "That's true."
Ikki turned to him. "By the way, Mizunuma... you interested in anyone?"
"No. Why?" Mizunuma tilted his head in confusion.
"Great! The receptionist at the gym is cute. You might like her." Ikki told him.
Miu glared. "Why are you looking at other girls when you're with Kaname?"
Ikki laughed. "You sound like Issei. He told me I should talk to Kaname about flirting with other girls and he's right. I'm gonna do that. She's probably waiting for me. See you guys later."
He drove off toward Kaname's apartment.
Miu watched him go, stunned. "He… reprimanded Ikki about his relationship? Issei did that?"
Renka nodded slowly and decided to get some get back towards the blonde. "See? He's… different."
Mizunuma smiled faintly. "I'm glad he opened up a little. I'll talk to him later."
Issei spent the entire morning fighting a losing battle against sleep. His eyelids drooped, his muscles throbbed from the early gym session, and his brain felt like it was wrapped in fog. Still, he kept to himself, quietly enduring the lecture.
The classroom was unusually peaceful.
'Matsuda and Motohama still aren't here… good.'
He didn't miss them. Not even a little. His black eye was fading, though the faint bruise still clung stubbornly to his skin.
When the lunch bell finally rang, he slipped out of the classroom like a ghost and headed straight for the nurse's office. He knocked, hearing Elize allow him to enter.
"Well, well, well. How was your first day?" Elize said, upon seeing him enter.
"So you went through with it?" Yu-Mi made her appearance known, watching him tentatively.
"Yes. I did. I'm sore though… Elize‑sensei, do you have anything that could help?" Issei replied with a nod.
"Yeah, hang on. I've got some creams." She said as she got up from her desk.
"Thanks. Oh and I didn't want you to feel left out, so… here, Yu‑Mi‑san. A miniature Wing Gundam Zero." He handed the small model to the brunette woman.
Yu‑Mi's eyes softened as she accepted the tiny model. "Thank you, Issei. I actually looked up the one you mentioned yesterday. Not bad. Maybe you have an interest in samurai?"
Issei rubbed the back of his neck. "Somewhat. I think they're cool… but with my perversion, no one would consider me one."
Yu‑Mi nodded. "You're doing alright so far."
"Really?" He asked in slight shock.
Elize tossed him a tube of cream. "Of course. You haven't stared at her boobs once. Here you go, kiddo. Don't overdo it."
"Thank you, Elize‑sensei." Turning his attention to catch what she had thrown his way.
Elize smirked. "Gotta keep your attention on me so you don't steal my partner."
Issei blinked. "…Partner? You mean..."
Elize laughed. "Yes. Yu‑Mi is the partner I mentioned."
Issei stiffened. "Oh. I thought you were joking to make me feel better. I'm sorry if I looked at her inappropriately." He bowed deeply.
Elize looked at him quizzically. "You're not offended?"
"What do you mean?"
Yu‑Mi exchanged a glance with Elize. "Most people don't condone same‑sex relationships."
"Well… most guys find girl‑on‑girl attractive. And I've been judged for being a pervert, so I can't judge you for loving another woman. That'd make me the same as the people who judge me." He looked away, trying to not remember the yuri content that he had seen before and envisioning the two women in those roles.
Elize blinked. "Huh. That's… surprisingly mature. Look at that, Yu‑Mi. Little Issei is growing up."
Issei blushed.
Yu‑Mi sighed. "Don't tease him too much. And thank you, Issei. Please keep our relationship a secret. We don't broadcast it."
"That makes sense. I thought Elize‑sensei was joking, and when I met you, I assumed you two were just close friends from school. You seemed like that."
"Well, you're right. We are from the same graduating class." Elize shrugged.
"No way. That's awesome. I don't think I'll be close with anyone from my class."
"You never know until you try." Yu-Mi replied to his negative response.
"She's right. But do it at your own pace. If you open up too quickly, you can get burned again." Elize affirmed, backing up her partner's statement.
Issei nodded. "I understand. I'll try."
Elize flipped open the Dragon Ball manga. "By the way, you might've missed this, but Goku's rival is actually a few years older."
Issei's face reddened. "Oh… I overlooked that. Sorry."
Elize laughed. "Don't worry. You're not the brightest when it comes to things you don't care about."
Issei fumed. "What's that supposed to mean?"
"She means that when you're not interested in something, you overlook details. You focused more on the fights than the backstory. Your eyes lit up when you talked about manga. But if we talked about schoolwork, I'm sure they'd be dull." Yu-Mi said in a calm manner to ease any irritation that he might have felt.
"Oh… well, I want to get an 85 average this year. My perverted guts got me into this school and through my first year, but now…" He looked down and pondered.
"Now you don't rely on perversion. You rely on perseverance." Yu-Mi answered.
Issei looked confused. "Isn't that the same thing?"
Yu‑Mi shook her head. "No. Perseverance means not giving up. You joined the club despite being teased about your childhood friend. You want to do well in your studies without relying on your old habits. And you're taking the snickers about your beatdown without letting them stop you."
"…Oh." His mouth gaped in shock.
Yu‑Mi decided to offer a solution. "If you'd like, I can go over your schoolwork during lunch."
Issei bowed deeply. "Thank you so much, Yu‑Mi‑san!"
Elize laughed. "You lit a fire under him."
"Perhaps." Yu-Mi shrugged.
Issei turned his attention to the nurse. "Oh and Elize‑sensei, do you know any drinks that help with muscle recovery?"
Elize hummed to herself before answering. "Herbal teas. Ginger, green tea, turmeric, cinnamon, passionflower."
"I'll stick with green tea for now." Issei said, not wanting to be overwhelmed by the options available.
"Popular choice for athletes." Elie pointed out.
Issei nodded. "Good to know."
They spent the rest of lunch talking about manga, training, and recovery. Issei wrote everything down carefully. For the first time in a long while… he felt like he was building a life.
The week followed as Issei's routine solidified. He'd wake up early and go to gym with Ikki, who taught him the basics of boxing but his form was terrible, but improving. He'd have lunch with Elize and Yu‑Mi, both of whom were calm, supportive and encouraging of him. Then he'd have afternoon training with Renka, which she was strict, intense, and overwhelming.
He opened up more to Ikki than Renka. Renka noticed and she didn't like it.
He avoided the student council entirely. He still saw Yuuto practicing with swords after club hours and it was something he kept in his notebook as a warning.
Green tea became his new fuel. He found waking up early became easier. His black eye was fading, and his body grew slightly more toned.
He wrote in his journal every night, grateful for the people helping him change.
On Saturday morning, after his morning workout, Issei stepped out of the cold shower, invigorated. He glanced at the mirror.
His body was still slim… but no longer scrawny. There was a hint of tone showing that small hint of progress.
Renka had told him he wouldn't need weekend workouts after this week as she only pushed him hard to help him catch up. He was grateful for her assistance.
He dressed in a blue short‑sleeved button‑up and black jeans. The shirt felt a bit snug.
'I'm filling out…? Nice.' He thought, again proud of his progession. He headed downstairs and greeted his parents. "Morning, kaa‑san. Morning, tou‑san."
Miki looked up from the stove. "Morning, dear. You're looking well."
Gorou looked up from his newspaper with a grin. "Morning. I may have to hit the gym like you are."
Issei stretched his still‑aching shoulders. "You'll be feeling sore, tou‑san. I know I was."
Miki set a cup of steaming green tea in front of him. "Then you requested that I buy green tea, ginger tea, and passionflower tea."
Issei nodded proudly. "Yep. Helps with recovery. Green tea in the morning, ginger in the afternoon, passionflower at night."
Gorou hummed thoughtfully. "Hmm. I'll take your word for it."
Miki handed him a small envelope. "Here's some money. Only a few things left to sell. I'm surprised your former friend ended up buying the DVD he loaned you."
Issei snorted into his tea. "Yeah… Matsuda wasn't the brightest one of us. But then again, not all of us were."
He remembered the moment his mother told him the username of the buyer. Matsuda had bought back his own DVD at a higher price, thanks to Miki raising it out of spite. Issei didn't feel bad. The money would go toward new gear and posters.
Issei stood and grabbed his bag. "Okay, I'm heading out!"
Miki called after him, "Stay safe!"
The door closed behind him.
Miki sighed and turned to her husband. "It's a good thing he hasn't spotted the bike yet."
Gorou chuckled. "Yeah. Also my boss said he doesn't mind interviewing you for your old job. But you'll end up being my administrative assistant."
Miki smirked. "Ooh, just be sure to remain professional around me, or we'll get in trouble."
"I'll do my best. When do you want to set it up?"
"When I'm sure Issei has a job. Did you know he's been praying?"
Gorou blinked. "Really? I guess Touji had some influence on that."
"That, and his daughter. I wonder how he'll react when he learns that 'Shidou' is their surname… and that he is actually a she."
Gorou laughed. "She was such a tomboy. I don't think we would've noticed if Touji and Mizuki didn't tell us."
"True. But he's been doing good. Have you seen his journal? He's very grateful to his senpai. I kind of wish we stepped in sooner about his perversion."
"Yeah… but better late than never. I'll have to tell my mother. She'll be surprised."
Miki giggled. "Another Hyoudou giving up the dream of harem king. And if we get any grandchildren, I doubt Issei will mention it to his kids."
Gorou laughed. "Agreed."
The morning air was crisp as Issei walked toward the shopping plaza. He felt… lighter. Not physically, though that was true too but mentally.
'I can't change my past. But I can change my future.' Issei told himself.
The plaza was crowded, as expected for a weekend. As he navigated through the flow of people, a short‑haired brunette stepped forward, smiling brightly as she handed him a flyer.
Issei was in shock as a girl... an actual girl, smiled at him.
His face heated instantly. Renka had smiled at him before, but that was different. She wasn't interested in him. This girl… might be from his school. Which meant...
'It could be a prank.' Issei got his guard up as he accepted the flyer cautiously. "Thanks."
Once he was out of her sight, he glanced at it.
Strange symbols. Dark patterns. Something that looked suspiciously like demonic script.
"…Yeah, no. I'm not joining a cult." He tossed it into a nearby trash bin and continued toward the manga shop he used to frequent.
As he reached the entrance, a middle‑aged man with brown hair and glasses stepped out.
Issei recognized him immediately. "Good afternoon, Morisawa‑san."
Morisawa brightened. "Oh! Issei. Haven't seen you in a while."
Issei rubbed the back of his neck. "Yeah… I got led down a path of debauchery and got branded a pervert. Trying to turn it around. Figured I'd get back to my roots, you know with new posters, new manga. Did a new Dragon Ball volume come out?"
Morisawa laughed. "I'm not sure. I'm still trying to get rich and build a harem."
Issei winced. "I wouldn't say that out loud. I did, and that's how I got branded a pervert."
"You just have to be discreet," Morisawa said sagely. "Besides, it's like loving the girls. They're there to provide pleasure."
"…Not how I viewed a harem, but okay. Oh, have you seen a bald guy and a dude with glasses preaching about harems in there?"
Morisawa shook his head. "Nah. I'm with my nephew today. He goes to your school. Third year."
"I don't think I've met him..."
The door opened again and a familiar face stepped out.
Issei looked shocked. "Mizunuma-senpai?"
Mizunuma turned his way. "Huh? Oh, Hyoudou‑kun. I see you've met my oji‑san."
Issei blinked. "I didn't know you wore glasses. And yeah, I've met your oji‑san whenever I came here."
Morisawa looked between the two. "So you two know each other?"
Mizunuma gestured towards Issei. "Hyoudou‑kun is the newest recruit of our club."
Morisawa's eyes widened as he turned to the younger brunette. "You joined the mixed martial arts club?"
Issei nodded. "Yeah. I wanted to be like Goku, he's a martial artist. And I wanted to change my reputation."
Mizunuma hummed to himself. "So that's why you joined. I figured it was because of the bullying."
"That too." Issei nodded.
Mizunuma gave his interjection. "It explains your trust issues."
Issei stiffened. "Huh?"
Mizunuma smiled gently. "Issei... may I call you that?"
"Sure." Issei shrugged.
"Well, you're reserved. You talk to Kenichi, Ikki, and Renka, but mostly when they're giving instructions. You talk more with guys than girls. Some guys like Ukita joke that you swing for the other team."
Issei groaned. "Kind of hard to do that when you have someone like Renka‑senpai around."
Mizunuma chuckled. "Yet you haven't ogled her like many expected."
Issei shook his head. "I can't look at another man's girl. Even though she has a wonderful pair of oppai. Kenichi‑senpai has her heart. Don't know why he chose Miu over her."
Morisawa rubbed his chin. "Oh, that little blonde girl?"
Issei nodded his head at the man. "Yeah."
Mizunuma informed him. "Miu and Kenichi have known each other since childhood."
Issei blinked. "Oh… they have history. That's kind of nice."
Morisawa looked at Issei with curiosity. "Did you have a childhood friend, Issei?"
Mizunuma nodded. "According to Renka, he did."
Issei stiffened again, grumbling.
Mizunuma continued gently. "Yeah. She told us. She also said she apologized."
Issei looked away. "I know. I just… don't want to talk about it. Because I have a feeling she was right."
Mizunuma placed a hand on his hip, his expression softening. "If you say so. But… you can talk to me, you know."
Morisawa nodded sagely. "Yes. Mizunuma was bullied too, so he understands."
Issei blinked. "I… didn't know that."
Mizunuma smiled faintly. "I think Kenichi saw a bit of himself in you. He was bullied too. But once we got into martial arts, we never looked back. If you ever want to learn some karate, when Renka thinks you're ready, that is."
Issei frowned. "I need her approval?"
"She is your mentor," Mizunuma reminded him.
Morisawa puffed out his chest. "I'm more of a fan of the young one."
Issei stiffened. "Who…?" He already regretted asking.
Mizunuma sighed and held up a bag with a very questionable cover. "He means Raichi Li. He's a lolicon, unfortunately. She's in your grade, but she's away right now, so you haven't met her. She also likes Kenichi."
Issei blinked. "Why doesn't Kenichi‑senpai just accept it?"
Mizunuma tilted his head. "Accept what?"
"His harem."
Morisawa threw his hands to the sky. "He has a harem?! Oh, the agony!"
Both Mizunuma and Issei sweat‑dropped at his outburst for different reasons.
"You'll have to ask him that," Mizunuma said. "I know Shigure‑sensei also likes him."
Issei's eyes widened. "Oh, that reminds me. I need to look at bokken. Renka‑senpai said Shigure‑sensei has an amazing weapon style. And wow… Shigure‑sensei too?"
Mizunuma chuckled. "Yeah. I guess you're jealous, huh?"
Morisawa burst into anime tears. "YES!"
Issei shrugged. "A little. But it is what it is. I don't think I'm getting a girl here anyway. I just want to focus on my training. Like Goku."
Mizunuma nodded approvingly. "That's one way to look at it. Alright, oji‑san, let's go. See you around, Issei."
Issei waved. "See ya."
He stepped into the store, the familiar scent of new merchandise and old paper washing over him. He picked up a few Gundam and Dragon Ball posters. It was his comfort zone but something else caught his eye.
Two mechanized raptor figures.
'These aren't Gundam…'
He asked an employee, who explained they were from another franchise called ZOIDS. Issei's eyes sparkled and he bought two of them, one red and the other was blue. The blue was newer, but the red called to him.
He grabbed a few ZOIDS manga on sale and left the shop feeling satisfied.
Next stop: a place that sold bokken and training gear.
As he walked, he spotted Takeshi with the black‑haired girl from the bridge. Up close, something about her felt… wrong. It was cold and predatory.
'Nope. Not my problem. She's Takeshi's headache.' Issei shuddered.
He found the shop he was looking for and there was a hiring sign. Perfect. He'd ask later.
But the moment he stepped inside, his heart sank. Yuuto Kiba and the kendo duo were also in this shop.
'Just my luck…' Issei groaned inwardly.
He tried to slip away quietly, browsing the shelves. Shin guards. Arm guards. Bokken. Gi uniforms. Tape. Bandages. He found an old book on samurai mentality and flipped through it.
'Bushido… Buddhism… loyalty… honor… martial mastery…'
Yu‑Mi had been right, he did have an interest in samurai.
He was absorbed in the text when someone snapped at him.
"Oh great, now you're stalking us, perv."
He looked up and saw Katase and Murayama glaring at him, while Yuuto offered a polite smile.
Yuuto gave a wave. "Hello, Hyoudou‑kun."
"Um… uh…"
Katase stepped in front. "Get out of here, perv. We're showing Kiba‑kun something."
Issei felt something strange from Yuuto. The blonde boy had a smile that didn't reach his eyes.
"I, uh..." Issei stuttered.
Murayama moved forward. "Move it!"
Issei stepped back. "But I..."
Yuuto looked at what was in Issei's hand. "What book is that, Hyoudou‑kun?"
Issei swallowed. "Um… something about samurai. I was thinking of getting it."
Yuuto nodded. "I see."
Murayama scoffed. "As if you have any qualities of a samurai. Hand it over to Kiba‑kun!"
Issei's jaw clenched, which Yuuto noticed.
Yuuto tried to placate the situation before it escalated. "Maybe we should..."
Katase lunged. "Hand it over, perv!"
Issei dodged, but his bag slipped from his hand. Posters spilled across the floor and Katase stepped on one.
"Oh no!" Issei reached for them, but Murayama snatched the book from his hand.
Murayama showing the book to the school's prince. "Here you go, Kiba‑kun!"
"Um… thanks?" Yuuto was a little more concerned with Issei's reaction.
Katase sneered. "Oh, did you drop one of your perverted posters?" She stomped on another.
"Cut it out!"
"Or what?" She ground her heel into another poster.
Something snapped in Issei and he lunged.
Yuuto moved to intercept but stepped on another poster in the process. Issei shoulder‑checked him, sending Yuuto crashing into Katase, causing both of them to fall to the floor.
Issei didn't care as he scrambled to his posters. They were crinkled, torn, and ruined.
A new voice echoed through the shop as a gruff looking man came to see what the problem was. "What's going on here?!"
Murayama pointed accusingly. "Sir! This pervert knocked Kiba‑kun and my friend down! We didn't do anything!"
"Is that true?" He looked at Issei, who was kneeling over his ruined posters.
Issei exhaled shakily. "I was just minding my business reading that book..." He pointed to where Yuuto had dropped it. "They tried to take it from me. I dodged, but I dropped my stuff. Katase stomped on them. I got mad. Sorry, sir."
Murayama turned back to him. "Quit lying!"
Katase glared daggers at him.
Before the man could speak, Yuuto stepped forward. "We'll take our leave, sir. We were at fault. Sorry."
Katase and Murayama froze, stunned at what their crush said. The man simply nodded at the statement, already knowing they were the cause. Yuuto gave Issei one last unreadable glance before ushering the girls out of the store.
The "manager" approached, picking up the fallen book and examining it. "So? What is it you were looking for?"
Issei didn't look up. "What does it matter…" He checked the raptor figures, they were scuffed, but salvageable.
"You seemed quite interested in this book."
Issei shrugged. "I was."
"My name is Mitsurugi. I'm the manager and owner."
Issei finally looked up.
The man was imposing with shaggy black hair, a goatee, a black yukata with red trim, wooden sandals, and pants frayed at the edges with a faded flame pattern. His physique was unmistakably that of a fighter.
Issei stiffened under the man's stern gaze. "Nice to meet you, Mitsurugi‑san."
"Surely you were here for more than a mere book."
"I was. I came for a bokken… and maybe a job. I saw the sign out front."
Mitsurugi raised a brow. "You wish to work here?"
Issei nodded. "On weekends, if possible. I go to Kuoh Academy. I'm part of the mixed martial arts club, but I keep to myself. I'm focused on my dream of becoming the best fighter in my grade."
"Just your grade?"
"Well… I have a long way to go before I reach my senpai's level."
Mitsurugi folded his arms. "Hmm. And why do they call you a pervert?"
Issei sighed. "Because I was or am."
He explained everything from the peeping to the betrayal and beating. Finally, the video and the humiliation.
Mitsurugi listened silently. "That explains the mark on your eye."
Issei nodded. "Yeah. I got advice from the nurse and her partner. My senpai gave me a chance, so I took it. I realized my former dream was worthless… so I changed it."
"Former dream?"
Issei blushed. "To be… harem king."
Mitsurugi stared. "Where did you get that dream?"
Issei smiled sadly. "My grandfather. He was extremely perverted… but I loved him."
"You loved him. He passed away, didn't he?"
Issei nodded.
"An honorable sentiment. But not an honorable dream. You were wise to listen to your senpai. Now, why a bokken? That has little to do with mixed martial arts."
"Ah… I have a sensei who specializes in an armed fighting style. I want to learn from her someday. But I want some basics first."
Mitsurugi stroked his chin. "Hmm. Smart. So, what is your interest in samurai?"
"Well… the nurse's partner, she's a physics teacher, and she's gotten into Gundam now. She asked me what my favorite model was. She looked it up herself and pointed out the samurai elements in its design. She said I might have a hidden interest in samurai. So I looked into it… and I realized I am interested. I'm fascinated by how they carried themselves. It's what I'm trying to do. I don't want to be called the Perverted Beast anymore… or have that stigma hanging over me." Issei explained.
Mitsurugi stroked his chin. "A beast, huh? I can see that from how you charged earlier. You need to restrain your anger."
Issei lowered his gaze. "I know… it's just..." He let out a long, tired sigh.
"You must train yourself mentally. Hmm… well, how does the end of the month work for you?"
Issei blinked. "What?"
"I could use a helper. Consider yourself hired. I'm impressed you told me the truth about the name‑calling. I appreciate honesty. Now follow me. Let's find you a bokken and get your paperwork started."
"Uh… okay."
He gathered his things and followed Mitsurugi to a wall lined with wooden swords.
"Pick one."
Issei examined each bokken carefully, testing the grip, the weight, the balance.
Mitsurugi eventually handed him a sleek black one. "I'd suggest something close to a katana in length. Here... this one. It'll stand out, so you won't mix it up with someone else's."
"How much is it?" Issei asked.
"About 15000 yen."
Issei winced at the price.
Mitsurugi smirked. "I'll drop it to 13500. I'll take the difference out of your paycheck."
Issei bowed deeply. "Thank you so much, Mitsurugi‑san."
"Don't thank me yet. We still need paperwork. The rate is 1200 yen an hour. Does that work?"
"I'm in no position to negotiate, Mitsurugi‑san. That's fine."
"Good. Considering that perversion, I would question a drug test to know why it was so high but I'm sure you'll pass." He turned and headed toward the back office, sandals clacking against the floor.
Issei stood there, stunned. He had a job. A real job. Someone trusted him enough to hire him on the spot.
He looked around the shop again, taking in the shelves, the displays, the atmosphere. 'Mitsurugi‑san runs all this by himself…?'
The man was impressive is what Issei believed. He would later learn that there was more to his new boss. In time, opening him to a new world of possibilities.
Mitsurugi returned with a stack of papers. "Alright. Here's the paperwork. May I see some identification?"
Issei handed over his student ID. Mitsurugi checked it, nodded, and had him sign several documents.
"I was joking about the drug test, so don't worry too much about it."
"Yes, sir. Thank you again...."
"You're forgetting something."
Issei blinked. "Huh?"
Mitsurugi handed him the samurai book he'd been reading earlier.
"Let me guess… out of my paycheck?"
Mitsurugi shook his head. "It's on the house. I'm sure you'll learn something from it."
"But I..."
"Trust me. You'll need it. And with the path you're on, I'm sure you'll do well."
Issei held the book tightly. "Thank you."
"Your name is intriguing... 'honest soldier.' If you have time, stop by early. I can show you how to work with that bokken."
Issei's eyes lit up. "Awesome! Ah, sorry. Um… thank you. I'll see you later, Mitsurugi‑san."
Mitsurugi smirked. "That's shishou to you now."
Issei straightened. "Mitsurugi‑shishou." He bowed again and left the shop.
Mitsurugi watched him go, a low chuckle rumbling in his chest. 'Honest. Straightforward. And unafraid to admit his past… rare traits these days. Not only that, but he comes from nothing, just like me.'
He didn't care about the boy's former perversion. What mattered was potential and Issei had it in spades.
'If he keeps that fire… I might just shape him into something great.' He glanced toward the door where Yuuto had left earlier. 'And that blonde boy… he's no ordinary human. A devil, perhaps. I've fought enough of them to know.'
He turned back to his inventory list.
Shishi‑Oh, the shop named after the katana he once lost in a duel to the woman who became his wife, had just gained an interesting new apprentice.
Issei felt better. Even with his posters ruined, he was on the verge of getting a job. He couldn't wait to tell his parents.
But before he could take three steps to where he wanted to go, someone had come to interrupt his day.
"Hello, Hyoudou‑kun."
Issei tensed immediately. "Can I help you?"
Yuuto approached with a small bag. "I wanted to apologize for how you were treated earlier. I saw your things were damaged, so… I bought you new posters."
Yuuto held out the bag. Issei stared at it, then at Yuuto. The smile on the blonde's face made his skin crawl.
"Oh, proof, right? Here." Yuuto opened one of the poster tubes and showed the contents. "See?"
"Why are you doing this?" Issei asked, he didn't deserve to be treated like this from the 'prince' of the Academy.
Yuuto sighed. "How they treated you was inexcusable. You were minding your own business. I should've said something sooner. You didn't deserve to lose money over something that wasn't your fault."
Issei looked away. "Well… it kind of is my fault. Their anger over my perversion is warranted."
"If you think so. Oh..." Yuuto's eyes drifted to the bokken. "You bought a wooden sword?"
Issei stepped back. "I've seen you practicing with real swords. I'm not letting you cut me up."
Yuuto blinked. "You saw that?"
"I'll give you credit, you know what you're doing. But excuse me for being cautious. I don't think swords have anything to do with occult research. Oh and there was a girl handing out flyers earlier. It had some writing on it that looked demonic. You might want to look into it."
Yuuto froze for a split second, but Issei barely noticed.
"Oh… really? I'll look into it. Are you part of any club? If not, you could join me in researching the demonic writing."
Issei deadpanned. "No thanks. I'll take my chances with Renka‑senpai."
"Who?"
"Nevermind. And I'm part of the mixed martial arts club."
"Oh. I thought you were planning on joining the kendo club."
Issei snorted. "No way. Not with those two there. I don't need more ridicule. They don't even realize I haven't peeped on them since I plugged that stupid hole with Elize‑sensei. At least you don't have to deal with this. Everyone loves you, pretty boy."
Yuuto scratched the back of his head, looking almost sheepish. "Uh, yeah… I don't really like the attention all that much. Hey, if you want, I can teach you some basics about wielding a sword."
Issei hesitated. "I'll… think about it. Thanks for the offer. And… thanks for the posters."
Seeing no immediate threat, he accepted the bag, carefully placing his raptor mecha figures and the samurai book inside with the new posters.
Yuuto smiled. "Of course. Take care."
"Yeah… you too." Issei walked backward at first, keeping Yuuto in sight. Something about that smile, it wasn't normal. It wasn't human. Only when he put enough distance between them did the unsettling pressure fade from his chest.
'Why do I feel like that around him…? And Takeshi… and that black‑haired girl…?'
Even the brunette who handed him the flyer earlier had given him a faint chill, though nowhere near as strong.
He shook his head. 'Whatever. I've got enough problems.'
He continued toward home, avoiding the park entirely. His instincts screamed danger the moment he looked in that direction. He wasn't about to test them. Taking the long route, he texted his parents that he was on his way.
When he arrived home, he showed his parents his haul. Their eyes immediately locked onto the bokken.
Miki frowned. "I don't think I gave you enough yen for that, Issei. Please tell me you didn't steal it."
Issei shook his head quickly. "No, no. I got it at a discount from Shishi‑Oh. They sell equipment and gear. And guess what..." He pulled out the paperwork with a grin. "I work there now!"
Gorou blinked. "You got a job?"
"Yeah. There was some trouble in the store, the owner talked with me, kind of like an interview and hired me. I start at the end of the month."
Gorou nodded. "Well, that's great! That was a pretty quick decision, so maybe they saw something in you that you have been holding back!"
Miki hugged him tightly. "Congratulations! I'm going to try to get my old job back too."
"That's great news, kaa‑san."
Gorou laughed. "We should go out and celebrate. This is a good day."
Issei put his things away, and the family headed out for dinner. The pay at 1200 yen an hour was solid for a high school student. More importantly, it was about responsibility. A step forward.
Dinner was warm, lively, and full of laughter. Gorou reminded Issei to call his grandmother soon. Issei felt lighter than he had in years. His instincts stayed quiet the whole night except for the faint unease he felt whenever he glanced toward the abandoned church on the hill.
'I'll pray again tonight… just in case.' He thought of the two siblings he never got to meet. 'I hope you're watching me. I'm trying.'
Back in his room, Issei wrote in his journal about gratitude for his senpai, his parents, his grandmother, Shidou, and now Mitsurugi‑sensei. Afterward, he lay in bed, headphones on, and played a song he always kept close to his heart. It came from a movie that he had thought was an anime.
He sang softly, voice trembling and shaking. He hadn't utilized the singing lessons that he paid for in a long while. He had gotten them when Matsuda and Motohama had made fun of him for singing the Dragon Ball theme song, when he first met them.
"I am a question to the world. Not an answer to be heard. Or a moment that's held in your arms. And what do you think you'd ever say? I won't listen anyway. You don't know me. And I'll never be what you want me to be."
His hand reached toward the ceiling as the chorus washed over him.
"And I want a moment to be real. Wanna touch things I don't feel. Wanna hold on and feel I belong. And how can the world want me to change? They're the ones that stay the same. They don't know me 'cause I'm not here."
A tear slid down his cheek. Funny enough, when he heard this song, he believed that he would be a harem king. He believed that would be his change, but he was the one that was wrong. People thought he'd always be a pervert. Thought he'd never change. Thought he'd stay the same while they never moved forward.
But now he knew better. He knew who he was. Who he could become and he would prove it.
He whispered the last lines like a vow. "I'm the one, 'cause I'm still here. I'm still here. I'm still here. I'm still here."
His arm fell over his eyes as he choked back a sob. He repeated the lyrics in his mind like a mantra.
'I know who I am. I know who I can be. I'm changing... for me.'
With that final thought, Issei drifted to sleep, a small smile on his face.