gyaxa | Entries tagged with jude ares

"Hierarchy"
Characters: Gast, Jude, Marion, & Ren

Gast: —Hey, Marion. We booked out this room, right?

Marion: ? Of course we did. I reserved it for us.

Gast: But like… someone’s over there…

Marion: What?

Ren: … Who’s that?

Jude: Ah, Marion. What a stroke of good luck.

Marion: Jude Ares… What are you doing here? We’re set to use this room now.

Jude: That would be true. I was using it right up until just now, but I haven’t gotten my fill yet.

But I remembered that Sage told me “good things come to those who wait” this morning, so I decided to test that out now.

And lo and behold, you arrived. Come on, let’s get on with the bloodshed already.

Marion: … And why would I entertain a freak like you? Get out already, we have our own training to do.

Jude: Then let me join you guys.

Marion: Hah?

Jude: It seems like there’s enough of us to split into two. So to kill some time… I’ll be Marion’s opponent.

Marion: Are you stupid…? Well, I guess you’ve always been.

Dammit… Should I get one of the rookies to go get Bianchi?

But that’d be a waste of time… and letting this guy get in the way of our practice? No way.

Gast: S-So, Marion? Whadda we do?

Marion: … Fine. I’ll let you join our training.

Jude: Great.

Marion: But you’ll be going against these two over here, not me.

Gast & Ren: Huh?!

Marion: Don’t worry. He acts like a freak, but he’s one of the stronger guys from the 12th gen. He’ll make good practice.

Of course, he’s no match for me, though.

Jude: But I want to fight Marion. Are these guys… rookies from the 13th generation?

Marion: Yeah. They’re not much more than fledgling little commoners, but I put my time and energy into training them.

I wouldn’t make light of them if I were you.

Ren: Marion…

Gast: This is kinda becomin’ a pain in the ass… we seriously doin’ this?

Ren: I’ve spoken with that guy before.

Gast: Huh? Really?

Ren: He reached out to us once when I was hanging out with Will on the rooftop… They seemed to be pretty friendly with each other…

Jude: Will? Who’s that?

Ren: Huh…?

Jude: And I’ve never seen you before either.

Ren: ……

Marion: Don’t take it to heart, Ren. This guy forgets everything that doesn’t catch his interest.

But if you manage to shine today, there’s no way he’ll forget you.

So you have to leave an impression on him, like I did.

Jude: Why are you making it sound like I’m interested in you?

I just haven’t forgotten about you. I’m not interested in you. Well, you are strong, I have to admit.

But my worldview is simple… there’s “Bianchi” and “not Bianchi”. You’d do well to remember that.

Marion: What…?

Gast: ……

───

Ren: Are we really doing this?

Jude: I should be the one asking that. I waited here just to find someone strong to have a bloodbath with—

Marion: Shut your trap. You’re wasting our time. Get in position, Gast.

Gast: O-Okay… But are ya sure about doing this 2 v 1?

Jude: … Why wouldn’t I be?

Gast: I mean, I doubt you’re weak or anythin’, but we both use guns, so we can do long range combat. But you…

Ren: Is your weapon just that hammer?

Jude: Yeah. I’ll toss it if it gets in my way, though.

Ren & Gast: ……

Jude: … But going against two gun wielders. This could be interesting.

Alright. Let’s get on with it already.

Ren & Gast: …!

Jude: HAAAAH…!

Gast: Urgh… He keeps comin’ straight at us…! Ren, shoot ‘im some more! Use your ice to stop him!

Ren: I’m trying! I’m hitting him too!

Jude: TAKE THAT!!!

Gast: The hell… he seriously smashed it all with the hammer…

Ren: With so much force, too… Isn’t he hurting himself like that…

Jude: If you want to stop me, then shoot, shoot, shoot!

Gast: But you’re like totally unarmed besides that hammer! And you’re not even using your ability!

Jude: Just shoot me already! What are you wimping out for? Is that gun just a toy?!

Gast: …!

Jude: Too slow.

Gast: ?!

Ren: Gast…!

Jude: KYAHAHAHA! Look, I’m on top of you! I’m beating the shit of you! I’ll kill you if you don’t fight back already…!

Gast: Urgh… Gah!

Ren: Knock it off! This is just a fistfight at this point!

Jude: Shut it. This is the most effective strat right now. What, there are rules we have to follow now…? Take that! And that! And that!

Gast: Argh… OOOOUUGHH!

Jude: … He stopped my fist?

Gast: … RAAAAAH!

Jude: …!

Gast: Thanks, Ren. Hearin’ ya say fistfight snapped me outta it…

Nah… it took a load off my shoulders, I guess? Fights are my turf after all.

Jude: Oh…?

───

Ren: —I’m off.

Marion: Oi, don’t go off by yourself, Ren. You go with him, Gast.

Gast: A’ight—

Jude: Gast Adler, was it? That sure was something.

Gast: Haha, I got in trouble with Marion, though. He got mad at me for makin’ this a fistfight. I guess it must’ve been pretty rough to watch, huh?

Jude: Beating each other to death isn’t bad at all. But you went about it in such a crude way…

Ah, right. It reminded me of when I was on the battlefield.

Gast: Huh…?

Jude: I spent some time being something of a mercenary. The feeling I got on the battlefield was the same as what I felt just now.

Gast: ……

Jude: Have you gotten up to something like that, too?

Gast: Nope. What business would I have on a battlefield…

Jude: That so.

Gast: Well, see ya around—

Jude: … “Adler”?

Gast: ……

Jude: Come to think of it, I feel like one of the higher-ups in the military we got a lot of work from was named something like that…

Are you connected to… Ah, he left.

Gast Adler… It wouldn’t hurt to remember his name, at least.

Stories Masterlist

"A Day Off with Family"

Characters: Bianchi, Jude, & Nico

Nico: ? … Who is it?

Bianchi: 『It’s Bianchi. Don’t you check who calls you, Nico-chan?』

Nico: … So?

Bianchi: 『I just have the littlest favor to ask of you, dearie—』

Nico: No can do. It’s my precious lunchtime right now.

Bianchi: 『I knew you’d say that. You can get whatever you’d like for delivery, so can you be a dear and come to Million Park right away?』

Nico: ……

───

Nico: *chew*… *munch*…

Bianchi: Thank you for coming, Nico-chan. It’s a huge help.

Nico: So what did you need? *chew*… I know I got all this food, but if it’s too much of a bother…

Bianchi: I just need you to stick around. That’s all the help I need.

Jude: Heeey, Bianchi!

Bianchi: ……

Bianchi’s siblings: BIANCHI~~~!

Bianchi: I’m right here~♪ I’m glad you two are enjoying yourselves. Aren’t you glad he’s playing with you?

Bianchi’s sister: Jude’s really good! I’m having so much fun~☆

Bianchi’s brother: I wanna go against Jude! My turn, Sis!

Nico: Are those your siblings?

Bianchi: That’s right.

Nico: What’s going on?

Bianchi: Ugh… It’s a short story, really…

I had a little time off, so I came to the park with my siblings, but then that guy showed up.

Nico: You didn’t call him here?

Bianchi: I did no such thing… It seems my sister did, though.

I just… I just can’t handle the sight before me, so I wanted someone by my side!

Nico: ……

Bianchi: *sigh*… it’s such a fabulous day, so I thought I could have a lovely afternoon, just my siblings and I.

Nico: … Ah. You’re okay being out in the sun?

Bianchi: Don’t worry about that. I’m fully protected right now.

I’m working with the Research Department to develop a new sunscreen right now, using their special technology. It’s still being tested, but they let me use it.

Once it’s finished production, I’ll have a much easier time protecting myself from the sun, and I’ll be able to spend more time with my siblings as well ♪

Nico: Hmm… *chew*…

Bianchi’s brother: BIANCHI~~~! I WANNA PLAY BASKETBALL~~~!

Nico: … Basketball?

Bianchi: Of course, dear. It’s my time to shine ♪

Nico: ……

───

Jude: Bianchi really cares about their siblings.

Nico: You’re not playing with them?

Jude: Bianchi told me to take a break. I still have energy to spare, though.

Nico: … Were you working last night?

Jude: Yeah, so they told me to be careful… Bianchi was worrying about me. This is the best day ever.

Bianchi: Come on, I’m going easy on you. Hurry and steal the ball!

Bianchi’s brother: Uugh~ go a little easier, then~!

Bianchi: You’ve been practicing, haven’t you? Show me how much you’ve improved…!

Nico: Bianchi’s got skills.

Jude: Of course they do. This is Bianchi we’re talking about.

Nico: Cuz they’re a hero, huh?

I guess I just can’t picture them playing basketball… but did they always move so aggressively?

Jude: Well, they usually play a supportive role on the battlefield. But they are by no means weak.

So they can be that aggressive when the time comes for it, but they always keep in mind where they are and who they’re with. They’re so amazing…

Nico: Still, I can’t get used to the sight of Bianchi playing basketball.

I mean, don’t they hate working up a sweat?

Jude: It’s probably because they want to grant their siblings’ wishes that much more.

I guess that’s what they meant when they called them the apples of their eye.

Nico: You understand that kind of feeling?

I don’t really get it myself, but…

Jude: I can’t say I understand it, but I do know that having things to protect, and working desperately to protect them is one of the things that makes Bianchi beautiful.

Beautiful, strong, and divine…

Nico: … Having something to protect can become a weak spot, though.

Jude: That’s true. But that also means you can become that much stronger.

That’s something Bianchi taught me.

Nico: … You actually said something decent, for once.

───

Bianchi’s brother: You’re too tough, Bianchi~

Bianchi’s sister: I’m beat~! I can’t move anymore~!

Bianchi: Well that’s good. Maybe I got a tad bit too into it.

Jude: Good work, Bianchi. Here’s your favorite protein drink.

Bianchi: … Thanks.

Bianchi’s brother: Doesn’t that stuff make you really beefy? Are you gonna get beefy, Bianchi?

Bianchi: I won’t, dearie. I always keep a close eye on getting just the right amount of exercise, protein… everything! Moderation is key when it comes to beauty ♡

Bianchi’s sister: If it makes you pretty, I wanna try it! I want a sip, Bianchi!

Bianchi: My… you’ve become absorbed by that kind of thing recently, haven’t you? I’m getting a bit worried.

Bianchi’s brother: Bianchiii, I wanna play hide and seek next.

Bianchi: Really? You still want to play?

Bianchi’s brother: Yeah! I wanna play lots and lots!

Bianchi: A-Ah…

Then… Nico-chan. Would you be a dear and play with them for a bit? You’ve already finished your lunch, haven’t you?

Nico: Huh…

Bianchi: I know your circumstances are unique, but you should still make sure you’re getting enough exercise.

Hide and seek should help with that… and it’s a great bit of fun as well ♡

Nico: I’m good.

Bianchi: Come on, don’t be like that~♪

Nico: You can take it from here, Jude.

Jude: Leave it to me.

Bianchi: W-Wha—Nico-chan?!

Jude: Alright, Bianchi. I’ll stick around as long as it takes until your siblings have had their fill.

Bianchi: Ugh… Nico-chan! COME BACK RIGHT NOW~~~!!!

Stories Masterlist

"step up"
Characters: Sage, Jude, Akira, Bianchi, & Marion

Sage: Thanks for helping me with my training, Jude-kun.

Jude: You’re nowhere close to mastering Overflow. I’m not having any fun over here.

Sage: I could tell as much myself. I wish I had some tips or methods to help me improve…

Where are you headed after this, Jude-kun? To Bianchi-san?

Jude: I was planning on it, but it seems Bianchi’s locked themselves in their room to grind out some work. I’ll be on standby so I can help support them as soon as they take a break.

Sage: I see...! Sounds like Jude-kun, alright.

Akira: Ah, there you are, Jude!

Jude: ?

Sage: Akira-kun!

Akira: Hey, Sage. Ya two were hangin’ out?

Jude: Are you a friend of Sage’s?

Akira: Hurry up and remember me already! I’m the genius rookie, Akira Otori! Ya better not be pretendin’ to forget or anything!

Jude: I really don’t remember you, though.

Sage: Sorry, Akira-kun. Jude-kun’s always like this.

Akira: Whatever, that ends today! Let’s go at it, Jude!

Jude: I’m not really interested in fighting weaklings.

Sage: Akira-kun’s not weak, y’know! He can even use Overflow despite being a rookie.

Jude: Oh?

Akira: Fufun, I rock, don’t I? Overflow chose me! Overflow! The thing only special heroes can use! Right, Sage?

Sage: Yep, you’re an amazing hero, Akira-kun ♪

Jude: ……

Akira: So? Up for a bout?

Jude: No. My top priority right now is being able to support Bianchi at a moment’s notice.

Akira: What…?!

Sage: Sorry, Akira-kun. Jude-kun always puts Bianchi-san first.

Akira: Dammit… He’s totally gonna ask me who I am next time we meet. It’s like I’m back at square one…

Sage: You’ll get there one day, Akira-kun. You’re a genius rookie, after all ♪

Akira: Fufun, ya ain’t wrong about that ♪

Sage: By the way, did you teach yourself how to use Overflow? Or did Brad-san teach you?

Akira: Well, I’d like to say I taught myself… but truth is, I did some trainin' with Marion.

Sage: Marion-kun?

Akira: Yeah. Brad asked him to teach me and Ren.

It was pretty tough, but I think it paid off.

Sage: Wow… Marion-kun’s really something. Maybe I should ask him to help me out sometime.

Akira: Good thinkin’. Just, be prepared to get whipped.

Sage: Haha, don’t worry. I’m used to fighting Marion during LOMs.

Akira: That ain’t what I mean.

Jude: ……

───

Jude: (I submitted the documents Bianchi asked me to. I’m so glad I could be of assistance to them.)

Marion: ……

Jude: ……

───

???: Yeah. Brad asked him to teach me and Ren.

It was pretty tough, but I think it paid off.

───

Jude: Oi, Marion.

Marion: Tch… I’m not in the mood to spar with you.

Jude: Spar? I’m not asking about that.

Marion: Like you’d have any other reason to stop me.

Jude: I have something I want to ask you now.

Marion: You? Ask me?

Jude: Are you really capable of teaching people how to use Overflow?

Marion: … Where’s this coming from?

Jude: I heard so from someone. Not sure who, though.

Marion: Well, I suppose it’s true. Objectively speaking, I’m the best at it out of everyone here.

Jude: Then teach Sage how to use Overflow.

Marion: Sage?

Jude: Yeah. If he learns how to use Overflow, then I can enjoy our sparring sessions more.

Marion: … I’ve never heard you talk about anyone besides Bianchi before.

But why do I have to spend my time just so you can enjoy yourself?

Jude: What, so you’re not the best at teaching how to use Overflow?

I heard you were, though.

Marion: ……

Jude: Well, if you can’t, then don’t bother.

Marion: I can! I’ve already taught two rookies how to use it before!

… I suppose I could teach him, depending on the attitude I get.

Jude: Haha, don’t worry. Sage’s great at minding his manners.

Marion: I’m talking about your attitude!

Whatever. I’m sick of dealing with you…

… Tell Sage to ask me about it himself. I’ll hear him out, at the very least.

Jude: I’ll do that.

───

Bianchi: Phew~ I managed to finish up in time~~~!

What a weight off my shoulders! Perhaps I’ll head out for a drink tonight ♪

Sage: Good work, Bianchi-san. Jude-kun’s not with you?

Bianchi: He wouldn’t stop whining about wanting to help, so I had him submit the documents. I still have to clean up around here, and all.

Jude: I turned them in, Bianchi.

Bianchi: Is that so? Well, thank you.

Jude: It was my pleasure. If you ever need anything, just ask me.

And you, Sage.

Sage: Huh, me?

Jude: Marion said to go ask him if you need help with Overflow.

Sage: Woah, he did?!

Don’t tell me you asked for me?

Jude: Only because I ran into him.

Sage: Thank you, Jude-kun! I’m really glad!

Bianchi: (Oh my, why isn’t that rare.)

(... I suppose I should follow up with Marion-chan, though.)

Stories Masterlist

Marion ・ Jude
─────────

I will take you

And bid this maze adieu,

But you still fall through.

Fake you out, slave you

You’ve been stuck in the claws of this lie that’s been drawn.

Be arrested, unable to move on—

For some absurd reason, tears start to drip down.

But even so, this blade that’s rusted raw

Becomes a key like a

Delivery from the past, haha…

I never let up chasing

After that cold smile you wear.

It's all just for show

I never let up chasing

Your true feelings.

Hey, give me now, give me now, give me now…

Pull up! You are faking it

I just take you, not a lie

I won’t ask for anything more,

I won’t tell you any pretty lies.

Give me now, give me now, give me, and it’ll all be over.

I just take you, not a lie

I won’t ask for anything more,

I won’t make any empty promises,

So trust in me.

That's the truth, isn't it?

Just like plastic, my expectations were

Melting down and seeping in, an insider.

The poison's taken its hold for good, turning the world into a blur.

Oh, backing out and pressing down on the accel,

I eat shit and my last bit of reason rebels.

That face comes to mind, and I make sense

Of this chase.

Chained in place, I've got to hold on,

It's the same old draw,

You're a monster, poison dripping from your jaw.

Deep inside, where it's cold as snow,

That affection you hold starts to grow.

Desperately making sure it doesn't show,

You bury them down low.

Deep inside, to the point it overflows,

You can't deny the truth no more.

So open up, no need to put on a show,

Catch me already, wow, oh, oh…

I never let up chasing

After that cold smile you wear.

It's all just for show

I never let up chasing

Your true feelings.

Hey, give me now, give me now, give me now…

Pull up! You are faking it

Out of nowhere, it was all lost,

And everyone disappeared without a moment’s pause.

Out of nowhere, it was all lost,

And everyone disappeared without a moment’s pause.

I just take you, not a lie

I won’t ask for anything more,

I won’t tell you any pretty lies.

Give me now, give me now, give me, and it’ll all be over.

I just take you, not a lie

I won’t ask for anything more,

I won’t make any empty promises,

So trust in me.

I just take you, not a lie

I won’t ask for anything more,

I won’t tell you any pretty lies.

Give me now, give me now, give me, and it’ll all be over.

I just take you, not a lie

I won’t ask for anything more,

I won’t make any empty promises,

So trust in me.

That's the truth, isn't it?

Songs Masterlist

"The People's Voice"
Characters: Jude, Bianchi, and Sage

Sage: Ah, take a look at this, Bianchi-san!

Bianchi: Hm? What is it, Sagie?

Sage: Jude-kun's trending on social media again.

Bianchi: Oh, him? You don't have to bother telling me that, dear…

Sage: It's like he takes over social media at regular intervals. That's amazing!

A lot of the hype is coming from foreign visitors this time. “New Million had such handsome heroes?!” And such.

Bianchi: Gracious, everyone always gets fooled by his looks. If only they knew what he's really like…

Sage: I get why so many people love him though.

I mean, true, he can be a little violent… and reckless…

But he's always helping the citizens out, so I'm sure they admire that part of him too ♪

Bianchi: … I wonder?

Sage: ?

───

Market shopkeeper: Ah, Jude-kun! Do you have off of work today?

Jude: No, I've got some work later in the evening. I just wanted to do some shopping before I head to the Tower.

Market shopkeeper: Then please, take a look at my store! We have nothing but the freshest tomatoes~♪

Jude: Tomatoes… You have anything else?

Market shopkeeper: Why of course~! Let me give you some freebies, as a thank you for always protecting New Million!

Jude: Alright, then—

Man's voice: Oh my god, apparently there's a fire at Emerald Street!

Jude: … Fire?

───

Rescue worker: It's not safe here! You need to back up!

Apartment resident: My dog's still in there! He’s my precious family…!

Rescue worker: You live on the top floor, yes? We're doing everything we can to put out the fire, but heading up to rescue it is too—

Jude: Which room?

Rescue worker: Huh…?

Apartment resident: I-It's on the right side, furthest from the stairs! I beg of you! Please save my family…!

Jude: Leave it to me.

Rescue worker: W-Wait! Just what do you think you're doing?! The fire’s too strong right now! It's too dangerous!

Jude: Heh, that just makes it even better—

───

Dog: Woof woof! Arf!

Apartment resident: I can't thank you enough! I'm in your debt…!

Rescue worker: That was amazing, not even we were willing to risk it in this situation… You're not hurt, are you?!

Jude: I don't think so…

Ah… I burnt my back a little, but it's no big deal. Well, I've got places to be, so I'm off.

Rescue worker: Ah, wait…!

Apartment resident: He's something else! Just who was that super cool hero…?!

───

Jude: (That was easier than I thought it'd be. I was expecting more of a challenge…)

(Well, what's done is done. Time to head back to that shop and buy some vegetables—)

Woman's voice: EEEEEEK! SOMEBODY, HELP~!

Jude: …?

───

Jude: What's the matter?

Female tourist: A bird snatched my phone and dropped it in the ocean! I think it sank somewhere over there, but… I can't swim…

Jude: Well that's good news. The sign says no swimming today. Must be because of a jellyfish outbreak or something.

Female tourist: !! So there's no hope…?

Jude: When did I say that? I'll go get your phone, so wait here.

Female tourist: Huh?!

Jude: Hehe, I wonder if there are any poisonous jellyfish waiting to spice up my day—

───

Female tourist: I can't thank you enough! Thank you so much…!

Jude: When did this crowd get here?

Female tourist: Um, are you okay?!

Jude: Yeah. These sting wounds must've come from a jellyfish…

But I don't think there were any poisonous ones… Too bad…

Female tourist: Oh no! We need to treat them! And then, please let me repay you!

Jude: Don't bother. I've got places to be, so I'll be going now.

Female tourist: S-So that's one of New Million's heroes… OMG…

───

Sage: Wow! Look at this, Bianchi-san!

Bianchi: Yes?

Sage: Jude-kun's trending again…! That's twice in a day!

Bianchi: A-Again…?

Sage: It looks like he helped a tourist. Woah, he's soaked for some reason…

And a lot of people in the comments are saying he's helped them too.

Wow… He's so cool ♪

Bianchi: … It's a miracle none of his bad sides come out. Well, I suppose he is helping people, so things may be alright like this.

Jude: Bianchi…!

Bianchi: ?!

Jude: I went out and bought some fresh vegetables for you, Bianchi. They'd be perfect for your smoothies, right?

I thought they'd make you happy, so I bought a whole bunch. Please, take them.

Bianchi: A-Ah… thank you for that…

Sage: We saw you blow up on social media, Jude-kun. You've been making yourself busy today, huh?

Jude: Busy?

All I remember doing is buying the vegetables.

Sage: Huh?

Bianchi: … I suppose you could say he has no desire for that sort of thing.

Jude: Sorry for bothering you, Bianchi. You can ignore me and carry on with your work and conversation.

I'll be keeping a close watch, so I can find more ways to please you, of course.

Bianchi: … Why does everyone fall for it…?

Stories Masterlist

"Intriguing Body"
Characters: Victor, Jude, Bianchi, & Marion

Victor: (And with that, my current research comes to a close. I wonder what topic I should set my sights on next…)

Oh? Why isn’t that…

Bianchi: Must you always be so reckless during practice…

Jude: It’s only natural that I’d take a few risks to protect Bianchi. Besides, not feeling pain gives me an edge in combat. Don’t see why I shouldn’t take advantage of that.

Bianchi: *sigh*... That attitude will come back to bite you one day…

Victor: (12th Sector’s very own Jude and Bianchi…)

(Ah, that reminds me. I had wanted to conduct a thorough investigation into Jude’s ability, hadn't I?)

(An individual with congenital insensitivity to pain being compatible with a regeneration ability—just one of substance’s many peculiarities…)

Bianchi: Why, if it isn’t Dr. Victor! How could we be of service?

Victor: Ah, you see, I have business with this gentleman…

Jude: Me?

Victor: That’s correct. I’m interested in your body, Jude.

Jude: … Huh?

Bianchi: D-Doctor? Whatever are you saying?

Victor: I would like to investigate your ability thoroughly.

I’m rather intrigued by the various benefits of your substance, “Never Die”.

Bianchi: A-Ah, so that’s what you meant…

Victor: I’m most interested in learning what your limits are, especially concerning your congenital disorder.

Might I add that this is in no way a bad deal for you.

Jude: ……

Victor: What do you think?

Jude: Let’s get going, Bianchi.

Bianchi: Eh, are you sure? I mean, at least give him an answer, would you?

Jude: To a guy this suspicious? No need.

Just making it clear, I have zero interest in going along with your little scheme. Nor am I interested in my “limits”.

Victor: Oh, is that so? What a shame.

… Now how should I go about this?

───

Bianchi: … So…? What do you need from me, Doctor?

Victor: Could I ask you to reason with Jude about my proposal?

I’m fairly certain that if you asked, he’d follow your every plea without hesitation.

Bianchi: … I figured as much.

Victor: Haha, I thank you for being quick on the uptake.

Bianchi: Sorry, but I must decline. There’s nothing in it for me, and I want to avoid dealing with that guy as much as possible.

Victor: Despite your frequent association?

Bianchi: Ugh, just what kind of ideas do you have about us?! I’m avoiding him, but he always, always follows along anyway!

Victor: Is that so? But aren’t you concerned about him, in your own way?

Bianchi: Just where did you get that idea—

Victor: I’ve already explained as much, but my proposal only works to his benefit.

Of course, I can’t deny that it was conceived to satiate my curiosity, but a time could come where we’ll need to have a deeper understanding of his condition and ability.

Haven’t you been anxiously watching him push himself without knowing his own limits this entire time?

Bianchi: ……

───

Jude: YOU…!

Victor: There you are. Rather quick, might I say.

Jude: What kind of idea did you plant into Bianchi’s head…?!

There’s no other reason they’d suddenly tell me to go along with your idea.

Victor: Oh, did they not inform you?

Jude: I asked, but they wouldn’t give me a straight answer. Normally, I’d be fine with that. I wouldn’t want to push Bianchi into answering me.

But not if it involves you. Don’t tell me you blackmailed them…!

Victor: How mistrustful. Well, I suppose I cannot blame you…

Would you like to know?

Jude: … What?

Victor: Don’t you want to know why Bianchi asked such a favor of you out of nowhere?

Jude: ……

Victor: I swear I’ll tell you the truth. I have nothing to gain from regaining your favor through lies.

Jude: … Really?

Victor: Why of course.

Jude: Well, if it’s for Bianchi’s sake. Do whatever you want to me.

Victor: Haha, you’re quite easy to understand, aren’t you? Both you and Bianchi.

Please rest assured, I won’t do anything untoward to you—

───

Victor: (Jude has since cooperated with me quite numerous times now, but how intriguing…)

(The results are fascinating.)

Marion: What are you smirking about? Don’t be gross.

Victor: Haha, just the usual. My research is progressing smoothly.

Marion: Knowing it’s that just makes it more disturbing…

Jude: Dr. Victor!

Marion: … Jude?

Jude: I’ve been looking for you! What do you want me to do next?!

Victor: I believe I told you that I’d contact you when I’m ready to proceed with the research?

Jude: That so? Doesn’t ring any bells.

Hurry up and contact me then. No need to hesitate. Use me however you’d like.

Victor: Haha, thank you for your eager cooperation. You’ve been a tremendous help.

Jude: Bianchi… Bianchi wanted me to! Of course I’m motivated!

Their way of dodging the issue is so endearing…

Doctor! Come at me full force! I can’t let Bianchi down!

Victor: Oh, I assure you I will. There's even less reason to hold back when I have such a willing participant.

Jude: I’m holding you to that.

Marion: ……

Victor: I couldn’t be more overjoyed to have such a motivated subject. I mustn’t let him down.

Marion: ……

… Gross…

Stories Masterlist

"The Nightmare Nurse"
Characters: Jude, Bianchi, Akira, Ren, and Will

Jude: I’m so sorry, Bianchi. I can’t believe I let you get hurt when I was right beside you.

Gah… And I can’t even begin to understand the pain you were in. This is the first time I’ve ever cursed this constitution of mine so much.

And I couldn’t even treat you… Even though Bianchi was in pain right in front of me, I couldn’t do anything to help! I was so useless, it made me want to just disappear!

Bianchi: Um, I just stubbed my toe, so that’s a bit much. You're still on that?

Jude: I couldn’t get the sight of Bianchi in pain out of my head all night… I’ve never seen Bianchi look like that before!

Bianchi: Well get it out, then! That reaction of mine wasn’t beautiful at all, so I’d much rather you forget it!

Look, you’re taking this much too hard. It’s not like I’m going to die…

Jude: No—we got off lucky this time, but if something doesn’t change, I'll end up losing you at this rate.

If such a thing happened, I'd feel nothing but regret and misery for the rest of my life. I must learn how to take care of any injuries you might sustain.

Bianchi: Ugh, you're so annoying! Then go off and learn it, why don't you?

Jude: Are you trying to encourage me? Thank you, Bianchi! I'll set off at once, just for you!

Bianchi: Of course… good luck with that.

(Setting aside his motivations, it'd do him some good to learn how to treat injuries and such. Of course, that's only if he takes it seriously…)

───

Jude: (If I want to learn how to treat injuries, I've got to head to where the injured people are.)

(There's no doctor, but there should at least be someone taking care of their injuries themself.)

… That was quick.

Will: Stop getting into such petty competitions, you two. You'll just get hurt at this rate.

Ren: We weren't competing. Akira just started bothering me.

Akira: Huh?! You're the one who started going faster to show me up!

Ren: As if. I was going to go at that speed regardless.

Akira: Stop shittin’ me! I know ya had your incline set the same as mine too!

Will: Guys… keep it down, would you? Look, someone else is here already…

Jude: Welcome inside. It's good to see you.

Akira: Woah, Jude! What, ya finally wanna go at it with me?

Not really sure what you're doing here, but that doesn't matter right now! I'll take ya up on your offer!

Jude: What are you talking about? I'm just here to learn how to treat injuries.

Akira: Oh, to make sure you're prepared for when I beat your ass? Good thinkin’—

Will: That's enough from you, Akira!

Um, why do you want to learn that, Jude-san…?

Jude: For Bianchi.

I've never felt any pain before, much to my chagrin. I know how to stop excessive blood loss, but when it comes to treating other people, I don't really know how far to go.

Will: I-Is that so…?

Ren: … I'm heading out now, Will.

Will: Ren?! We haven't even taken care of your injuries yet, what are you saying?

Ren: I feel like something bad’s going to happen. Not sure what, though.

Will: But we still have to treat your injuries…

Jude: That's right. You two just sit tight and let me take care of it. I know I said I'm not sure how to treat other people, but I've had people treat my injuries many times before, so it should be fine.

Ren: How's that supposed to make me feel better?

Akira: What’ve ya been goin’ on about? Hurry up and come at me!

Jude: Hm… You should be a good place to start. Let's start the treatment now…

Will: Ah, please wait! And please shut up already, Akira!

Akira: H-Huh…?

Will: W-Why don't you practice on these manikins first, Jude-san…?

Jude: Manikins?

Will: Uh, if I remember right… here they are!

They're mannequins you practice different treatments on. I'll show you how, so let's practice with these first.

Jude: I see… I suppose it's a little soon to jump into the real thing. Let's hurry on with it, then.

Will: Of course. Come on, show us where you got injured, you two.

Jude: Hmm… So that's how you bandage someone up. Let me give it a try…

Ren & Akira: ?!

Will: … Its arm broke off.

Jude: This thing sure is fragile. Well, I doubt an actual arm is that frail too. Let me try on a different doll—

───

Ren: … Good thing we didn't let him treat us.

Akira: H-How many did he even break…?

Will: U-Uh, Jude-san? I don't think you need to be so heavy-handed. Do it a little gentler, like this…

Jude: I see… I'm not sure I can, but I'll give it a shot.

───

Will: Yes, exactly like that! You've gotten so much better!

Jude: Heh, I think I've gotten a handle on this.

Will: That's great. Well, let's keep at it ♪

Jude: I should probably move on to the real thing now, right?

Akira: W-What’re ya lookin’ at me for?!

Ren: I already took care of my injuries.

Jude: I see. Well, no worries.

Ren: H-Hey, what are you…

Jude: Isn't it obvious? I'm undoing the bandages so I can start from scratch.

Akira: K-Knock it off! I'll pass!

Jude: What are you running away for? I've gotten a handle on it, haven't I? So there's nothing to worry about. Right, Will?

Will: Huh? Ah… well, I suppose it wouldn't hurt to give it a shot. I'm sure a time will come where you'll have to do it for real anyway.

Akira & Ren: Will?!

Jude: Alright then.

Akira: It's not “alright”! Leggo of me! Stop it already, if ya put that much force into it…

GWAAAAAAAAAAAAAHH!!

───

Jude: So as you can see, I've learned how to treat injuries, Bianchi.

Bianchi: Huh, already…? You haven't caused any trouble, I hope?

Jude: Of course. The patients let out some pretty big screams at first, but I got a handle on controlling my strength in the end. I'm confident in my ability to treat your injuries, Bianchi.

Bianchi: “Screams”...? Now just who did you—

Akira: Gah! It's Jude! He's over there!

Jude: Ah, you two. If you ever get hurt again, you know where to find me.

Ren: D-Don't mind us, we're just passing through. Let's go, Akira.

Akira: R-Right…

Jude: What's wrong with them?

Bianchi: Jude…

You've caused loads of trouble! Go after them and apologize!

Stories Masterlist

"Dangerous Man"
Characters: Jude, Bianchi, & Akira

Bianchi: I really have made a lot of outfits over the years, hm…

Jude: What are you looking at, Bianchi?

Bianchi: Eek!

H… H-How long have you been standing there…?!

Jude: About three minutes. The sight of you completely engrossed in the screen captivated me.

Bianchi: Well, don't do it again… Gracious, that was such an uncouth outburst from me.

Jude: There's no need to worry about that. You're beautiful no matter what.

Bianchi: It doesn't make me happy to hear that from you…

Jude: So, what were you looking at?

Bianchi: … The album Sagie put together. Didn't he send it to you, too?

Jude: Ah, I know what you're talking about. That photo collection chronicling Bianchi and I's memories together, all the way back to when we were rookies….

Bianchi: Well, yes but no. Is there something wrong with your eyes???

Jude: ……

Bianchi: Sagie is always so sincere… he's a good boy…

It's been a while since our work at the casino, but I wonder if he's doing well? I haven't seen Nico recently, either…

Jude: I can go grab them for you, if you want to see them. Nico will take a little time, but catching Sage should be child's play.

Bianchi: Don't. Why didn't you even think of messaging or calling them first?

Jude: I figured you'd want to see them as soon as possible.

Bianchi: Goodness…

Y'know, I do want to know if they're doing well, but I'm trying not to worry about them too much.

Jude: ? What do you mean?

Bianchi: Let's just say a couple things happened. I've been much too overprotective of them.

Jude: Really? I don't think they realize how lucky they are that you care for them so muc—

Bianchi: Quiet.

Jude: …….

Akira: Yo, Jude!

Jude: ?

Bianchi: My, if it isn't Akira-chan! It's lovely seeing you as chipper as ever ♪

Akira: Yep! I'm at max voltage today.

Bianchi: Oh, did you come to see Jude again?

Akira: Yeah! Hey, Jude! Who d'ya think I am?!

Jude: You're "Akira-Chan", right?

Akira: You're just repeatin' what Bianchi said! And that ain't even my name! Who the hell is "Akira-Chan"?!

Jude: I feel like I've seen you before… well, whatever. You need something? This is my alone time with Bianchi.

Bianchi: I never agreed to that?

Akira: I seriously thought today would be the day… Whatever, I got something else I wanted to talk to ya about.

Lookie here!!!!!

Jude: What's this crumpled sheet of paper?

Akira: It's a flier for a hot dog speed eating contest! Join it and fight me, Jude!

Jude: … Let me take a closer look.

Bianchi: Is that the one held in Green East? Nico entered it before—he won and got a trophy, if I remember correctly.

Akira: Nah, this is somethin' different. It's run by a hot dog spot, I'm pretty sure.

And I also got a trophy before, just so ya know.

Bianchi: Aw, are you feeling competitive? How adorable—

Jude: This seems interesting. Sure, I'll join.

Bianchi: Huh?

Akira: Haha, now you're talkin'! Speed eating hot dogs is my specialty, so ya better be prepared!

Jude: Hm, then I'll be looking forward to it. You better put your life on the line—

Bianchi: A moment, you two.

Akira: Huh? What's wrong?

Bianchi: No… you can't! You absolutely mustn't participate!

Akira: Wha… but why?!

Bianchi: Did you take a close look at the flier, Akira-chan? What does it say right here?

Akira: "This competition will be a super spicy food fight featuring hot dogs made with our restaurant's spiciest ingredient: ghost peppers"...?

Huh, super spicy food fight…? What's a ghost pepper? Never heard of it before, but if it's just a little spicy, then I can totally—

Bianchi: No you can not! Ghost peppers contain over 5 times the amount of capsaicin as habanero peppers!

I know that even I would be regretting it the next day if I ate dandan noodles full of them.

Akira: I-I don't really get what you're talking about, but it sounds sketchy. I guess I'll pull out and look for another contest—

Jude: What, you'll back down that easy?

Akira: What was that?!

Bianchi: Oh, you… I can't believe you can even say that when you have such a big advantage.

No, it's not an advantage… if you participated and something were to go wrong, you could die, you know?

Akira: Die?!

Jude: ……

Bianchi: Jude can't feel pain, so he can't tell how spicy food is as a result. That doesn't mean it doesn't affect him though.

It'd hurt him just as much as it'd hurt any other, so if he were to participate in such a thing…

Akira: I-I really got no clue what you're talkin' about, but it seems super sketchy…

Bianchi: … Jude. That's why you wanted to participate, right?

Jude: Ha… hehehe…

Akira: Huh?

Jude: That's Bianchi for you...! You know me so well.

That's right. The idea of a super spicy food fight drew me in, which is why I accepted the offer.

What would happen to my body if I kept eating spicy food… what kind of danger I could find myself in… I wanted to find out!

Bianchi: I figured as such…

Jude: Even if I don't feel any pain, the effects of the damage still show up on my body. I don't get to experience it often, but the sensation is out of this world.

Akira: This guy's even sketchier than the contest…

Bianchi: My goodness. Get a handle on yourself, would you? What if I hadn't noticed…

Jude: Haha… it's a shame I can't participate, but I wasn't expecting Bianchi to worry about me.

You feel the same concern for me that you feel for Sage and Nico, huh?

Bianchi: I-I wasn't worried!

Jude: I wasn't sure myself, but when we go out drinking together, do you keep an eye on me to make sure I don't drink too much?

Bianchi: ……

Jude: If that's so, then I'm a lucky man… To think Bianchi worries about me every time we drink together…

Bianchi: I said I don't! No one's worried about you—

Jude: "I" exist as a concept inside Bianchi's brain… Just that idea alone—

Bianchi: Oh my God! You're so gross! Stop saying such creepy things!

Akira: … I'll go grab some hot dogs.

Stories Masterlist

Characters: Bianchi, Jude, Sage, & Nico

Bianchi: —Oh?

Why hello there, you two. Fancy running into you here ♪

Sage: Are you heading back now? You sure bought a lot…

Bianchi: Fufu, it’s been a while since I could indulge in a post-work shopping spree, so I got a little carried away ♪

Are you two also out shopping?

Sage: Yep. Nico’s alarm clock broke, so we’re gonna buy him a new one.

Nico: The groceries for dinner come before that, though.

Bianchi: You two are as close as ever, aren’t you ♡

Ah, please don’t tell Jude you saw me here, okay? I posted on HeliChan that I was busy with design department work so he wouldn’t follow me here, you see.

Sage: Ahaha… he hasn’t sent me any messages, so he probably fell for it.

Bianchi: Thank goodness. Breathers like these are essential, so I don’t want him getting in my way.

Sage: I don’t think he means any harm, though…

Nico: I’m hungry.

Bianchi: Fufu, why don’t we get something to eat together, then? I was just about in the mood for a break.

───

Nico: *chew* *chew*

Bianchi: Do you like it, Nico-chan?

Nico: Yep… it’s tasty…

Bianchi: Well that’s good to hear.

Would you like half of my sandwich?

Nico: Okay.

Bianchi: Here you go ♪

Sage: You give a lot of your food to Nico, huh. Is it because of your diet?

Bianchi: That’s part of it, but when I see Nico-chan eating away so happily, I just get the urge to do so, you see.

I wouldn’t give him this much food if he wasn’t like that, though.

Sage: I see… Is that also why you buy apple pies for me all the time?

Bianchi: That’s right. When I see a delectable apple pie, I can just picture your happy face while eating it, and end up buying it on the spot.

Ah, the omelet you ordered is here. Do you mind if they take the plates away, Nico-chan?

Nico: Nope.

Bianchi: Then I'll leave this plate right here, okay? Fufu, you sure ordered your fill ♪

Sage: You’re really enjoying yourself, huh, Bianchi-san?

Bianchi: Well of course I am! You two are with me, after all.

Nico: Why do you pamper people so much, Bianchi?

Bianchi: Um…? Let me think. I’m not really aware of it myself, so I’m not sure what to say…

It’s just natural for me, I suppose?

Sage: Could it be because you have younger siblings?

Bianchi: Hm, it might?

Nico: But I have a little brother too.

Bianchi: Ahaha, you did, didn’t you? Then maybe that’s not really a factor?

Besides, my sister was born when I was 14, so I was an only child for quite a while.

Sage: Ah, that’s right. Your siblings are still pretty young, aren’t they?

Nico: You’ve met them?

Sage: Huh? Didn’t they come to watch the LOMs all the time when we were rookies?

Bianchi: Nico-chan always left right after to replenish his energy, so there was never really a good time for them to meet.

Sage: They always ran straight up to you after the LOM ended, didn’t they? They were super cute.

Bianchi: Weren’t they? I’m overjoyed to see them growing up, but I’m worried they’ll enter their rebellious phase soon.

Nico: They’re that young?

Bianchi: My sister’s 13, and my brother’s 11. My brother’s still quite a child, but my sister is becoming more mature each day.

Sage: Considering she’s your sister, I’m guessing she’s into fashion and the like?

Bianchi: Yes! Yes she is~! She’s fascinated by all my clothes and makeup and such!

I’m more than willing to teach her more about them, but won’t it become a problem if she gets too beautiful?!

Haa~~~h, I can’t believe I’ve started worrying about things like that…

Sage: Ahaha, you sound like her parent, y’know.

Bianchi: I suppose I do. I changed their diapers and gave them milk and stuff, so they do feel like my kids a little bit. Well, that’s nothing compared to our mom, though.

Sage: That sounds really nice. Your siblings must be really happy, having an older sibling like you around ♪

Bianchi: Oh my, Sagie… Thank you, you’re such a sweetheart.

I treasure the two of you just as much as I treasure my siblings.

I’ll probably keep pampering you regardless, but if you ever need anything, just ask, okay?

Sage: Wah, thank you, Bianchi-san!

Nico: Thanks…?

Bianchi: Well then… would you look at the time! I’ll be heading out soon, I need to finish shopping.

Sage: Huh, you’re buying even more stuff?

Bianchi: These are just presents for my siblings. It’s been a while since I’ve last gone home, so I got the urge to spoil them a little bit.

Now I’m shopping for me! I’ve got to take a little break, so I’ll be sure to check out all my favorite shops ♪

???: I suppose you’ll need someone to carry your bags, then.

Bianchi: ?!

Jude: Hello, Bianchi. You’re as beautiful as ever.

Bianchi: Jude! W-Why are you…

Jude: I had something to give you, but you weren’t in the office when I checked.

Bianchi: So then why are you here?

Nico: We didn’t tell him.

Jude: Your sister told me.

Bianchi: What?!

Jude: I posted that I couldn’t find you on HeliChan, so she messaged me. Said you were eating a sandwich here, apparently—

Bianchi: N-Now wait just one second! Why are you in my sister’s DMs?!

Jude: Beats me. She messaged me first.

We’ve met quite a few times, back since when we were rookies. She told me to take care of you, so I don’t think she hates me.

Bianchi: No… This can't be…

Sage: Woah! Hang in there, Bianchi-san…!

Jude: Bianchi’s dear ones are my dear ones. I would do anything to protect them, even at the cost of my own life.

Bianchi: ……

Jude: Also, your brother wants me to play with him, it seems. You’re heading home after you finish shopping, right? Mind if I come with you?

I’ll accompany you before then, too, of course. Until you’ve shopped to your heart’s content—

Bianchi: Of…

Jude: Of?

Bianchi: Of course I mind!!!!!

Stories Masterlist

Characters: Jude, Bianchi, Gray, & Asch

Jude: Will you start heading to the operations room after this, Bianchi?

Bianchi: (sighs)... Why do I have to tell you about every little thing?

Jude: You don’t if you don’t want to. I just want to know as soon as possible, but I’ll find out if I stick with you, either way.

Bianchi: And why are you sticking with me? I’m pretty sure I planned on eating lunch by myself…

Jude: We ran into each other, didn’t we? It’s only natural friends as close we are would eat together, even if our encounter was just a coincidence.

Bianchi: It’s not. I doubt that was even a coincidence. Well, it’s too late for me to start complaining now, but…

Jude: You’re right. We run into each other way too often for it to be just a coincidence. It has to be fate—

Gray: Woah…!

Jude: ? … What was that?

Gray: Oh God… Ohdearohdearohdear…! Please please please excuse me, I’m so sorry for running into youuu…!

Bianchi: Oh dear, are you a rookie? I don’t recall seeing you before…

Gray: !! Y-Yes, I am… I-I apologize…

Ah…

Bianchi & Jude: …?

Gray: I… I’m sorry, I must be going now! P-Please excuse me…!

Bianchi: Ah, he ran off…

He seemed surprised to see you. Is he an acquaintance of yours, perhaps?

Do you know who he is, Jude?

Jude: Not a clue.

Bianchi: I figured as much. It’d be more surprising if you did—

???: Where’d that shitty geek run off to?

Bianchi & Jude: ?

Asch: …!

Bianchi: My, fancy running into you, Asch-san. Why are you panting like that?

Asch: Tch, just my luck runnin’ into these freaks…

Jude: Oi, hold up.

Asch: What, damn it?

Jude: Bianchi asked you a question. Don’t ignore them.

Bianchi: Hey, quit that, Jude—

Asch: Just who do ya think you’re talking to?

Bianchi: Gracious, you… why couldn't he have just ignored us…

Asch: Hey, asshole.

… What's my name? C'mon, give it a shot.

Jude: ……

Asch: Ya better not say you forgot again. I'll beat the shit outta ya if you do.

Jude: … At this rate, there's no way I will. You're Asch, right?¹

Asch: That's Sir Asch Albright to you. Get it right this time.

Jude: ……

Bianchi: Speaking of which, aren't the two of you the same age? You were in the same grade in the Academy, if I recall?

Asch: Huh?! I'm a year older. Don't go mistakin' that.

Jude: That so? I'm surprised you remember.

Asch: …! You piece 'a shit…

You've been like that since the Academy days. Always brushin' me off and askin' me who I am…

Even though ya ended up runnin' away with your tail between your legs just when I was about to get around to givin' ya a piece of my mind.

Jude: ? I don't remember doing that.

Asch: Y-You literally left the Academy not even half a year in!

Jude: Oh… Well, that's true. I managed to get in, but the course ended up being pretty different from what I thought it'd be, so I got bored and left.

I pictured the place to be a lot more savage, you know? More beating, more crushing, with only the strong who never let their guard down allowed to survive…

Bianchi: What were you even planning on learning…

Jude: So then I spent the next few years doing as I pleased, and then when I got sick of that and returned to the Academy, I met Bianchi.

They truly made it all worth it, and that's not at all an exaggeration.

Bianchi: Yes it is. Don't say stuff like that at the drop of a hat, would you…

Oh, well. Isn't that lovely, Asch-san? It seems he finally remembered your name.

Asch: Whaddya mean "lovely"? It's not like I wanted him to remember.

There's no way I'll forgive anyone who gives me an attitude. Just rememberin' my name won't get him off the hook.

You've always been a rude little shit, pay your elders some respect, why don'tcha? I'll have you make it all up to me right now—

Bianchi: Dearie, but if we're talking about age, I'm older than you, you know?

Asch: Huh…

Bianchi: Does that mean you'll be a sweetie and respect me? Asch-chan ♡

Asch: … Nnrgh—!

I thought I told ya I wouldn't let ya off lightly if you called me that, didn't I?

Jude: Just try doing something to Bianchi. Then let's see what kind of trouble you end up in.

Bianchi: Just stay quiet, you. You always make things so complicated—

Hm? What was that sound?

Asch: … Tch, I gotta head to the meeting.

You live, for now. I won't forget about this, though, so ya better not think I'll let this slide next time.

Bianchi: Taking the time to remember such a silly little conversation… Asch-chan can be so sincere at times.

Jude: I wouldn't mind if he forgot.

Bianchi: Oh?

Gray: …!

Bianchi: You're still here? You… weren't watching us the whole time from behind that pillar, were you?

Gray: Aaaahhh… Um, well… I-I-I'm sorry…

I was actually being chased by A……sch… so I was going to hang around here until he left…

Bianchi: I see… Does that mean he's your mentor? It's a shame you got stuck with such a bully…

Gray: Well, it's now anything new… He's been like that… since the Academy…

Bianchi: Since the Academy?

Gray: E-Excuse me… I failed at the tryouts, so…

Bianchi: Is that so? So if you were in the same class as Asch-san… that means you already knew about Gray-chan, right, Jude?

Jude: I already said I had no clue.

Gray: Uu… it's only natural you'd forget… about someone like me…

You left… a really strong impression on me, though…

Jude: What do you mean?

Gray: Even when A…sch and his followers started bothering you, you always stood up to him like you weren't fazed at all…

You had no problem asking who he was straight to his face… I'll never forget the look on Asch's face when you did that…

Jude: I stood up to him? I don't remember doing that.

Gray: Huh…?

Jude: I don't remember much from when I first enrolled in the Academy to begin with. My life began when I returned later and met Bianchi, after all.

Gray: B-But… you became something of a legend in those days, Jude-san…

You didn't hang out with anyone, and you didn't try to be friendly either… You were the sole exception to the harsh school caste that had been built up…

Some people even started calling you the "Outsider"...

Bianchi: Pfft…

Jude: Bianchi?

Bianchi: Oh, dearie me… that wasn't a very elegant laugh, was it?

I don't really care to learn more about Jude's past, so I'll be on my way, now.

Jude: Wait for me. I'll go with you!

Bianchi: I thought I told you to not follow me—

Gray: The legendary Outsider… He's still so cool and collected…

───

1. In the event Thrilling Action Starts With HERO, which is implied to come after this story, Gray asks him about Asch, and Jude has no idea who he's talking about. ↑

Story Masterlist

Characters: Jude, Bianchi, Sage, & Nico

Sage: Oh… Oh no…

Nico: It happened again?

Jude: You still get surprised by this?

Sage: I-I might be used to seeing this, but it's still far from normal!

This… mountain of tomatoes…!!!

Jude: I've been wondering about that. Why do so many people send me tomatoes?

Sage: Huh, you're asking that now?

Nico: It's because you said you liked them, isn't it?

Fans usually send their faves' favorite foods if it's made public.

Jude: … I said that?

Nico & Sage: ……

Nico: I'm hungry. I'll whip something up with these real quick.

Jude: It's a good thing Nico's here. There'd be so much waste without him.

Sage: … Jude-kun. I'm just wondering, but do you not actually like tomatoes?

Jude: Not really, no.

I don't feel one way or the other about them.

Sage: That's news to me…

I totally thought you did. I mean, you said so in an interview, right?

Jude: Interview?

Sage: Y'know, when that magazine interviewed us back when we were rookies—

Bianchi: Oh dear, the tomatoes again?

Jude: Bianchi…♪

Good work. Did you finish your work for the design department? Should I brew some coffee for you?

Bianchi: I'm peachy without, thank you… More importantly, are these more tomatoes from the fans?

Sage: Y-Yeah…

Nico's using some to cook up a dish right now, but it's still… a lot…

Bianchi: (sighs)...

Jude: Are you going to eat dinner here, Bianchi? I'll join you—

Bianchi: Oh you and your… Why don't you stop saying you like tomatoes?

Otherwise, your fans will keep sending tomatoes for all of eternity.

Jude: Got it. If it's your wish, I'll do just that.

Sage: … Do what?

Jude: I'm sure a post on HeliChan will do the trick. "I hate tomatoes".... that should be fine, right?

Bianchi: N-Now wait just one second!

There's no way you can do that… absolutely not…

How do you think all the fans who went out of their way to give them to you would feel?

You can't just drop something like that on them out of nowhere…

Sage: That's true… you'd have to be really careful about how you word it.

Bianchi: That's exactly right. It'd have to be a borderline apology.

Jude: An apology… ah, then let's hold a press conference.

Bianchi: A-A press conference to apologize about the tomatoes…?

Sage: Why'd you even say you like tomatoes in the first place?

Bianchi: Well, we started to get more questions like that in interviews, right? But Jude's answers were just such a bore…

If you asked him what he does on his days off, he'd only say "nothing in particular".

And if you asked him if he liked dogs or cats more, he'd say he doesn't care for either of them…

Sage: Y-You're right… I thought those answers were perfectly Jude-kun, myself, though.

Bianchi: But he's always had so many fans, hasn't he?

I felt bad for all the people interested in him, so I told him to at least pick a favorite food.

Sage: I see… but why tomatoes?

Bianchi: I have no clue. Why was that, Jude?

Jude: Let me think… If I remember correctly, La Tomatina was being held around that time.

Sage & Bianchi: La Tomatina…?

Jude: It's Spanish. It's an event known as the "Tomato Festival".

I saw some posts about it while I was trying to think of a favorite food, per Bianchi's request.

It's an event where people fervidly throw tomatoes at each other in the streets, but just the sight of all those people dyed in red…

It was like something awoke deep inside of me. That's when I decided to make tomatoes my favorite food.

Bianchi: What kind of reason is that???

Jude: Haha, it doesn't really make sense anymore, right? I'd be much more interested in an encierro nowadays, after all.

Sage & Bianchi: ……

Jude: Ah, I have an idea. Why don't we use all these tomatoes to hold our very own La Tomatina?

That way, we can use them all, and the fans' gifts won't be wast—

Nico: No way.

The tomatoes aren't that big of an issue. I'll eat them all.

Sage: Ahaha… Throwing all these tomatoes would be a waste of food…

Bianchi: We have no other choice then.

Sage: Did you think of something, Bianchi-san?

Bianchi: Jude! Love tomatoes with all your heart!

Jude: …!

Sage: Love…

Nico: Tomatoes…?

───

(A few days later)

Jude: "Thank you everyone for always giving me so many of my beloved tomatoes."

"Both your kindness and the tomatoes bring me so much joy."

"However… it saddens me greatly when there are too many to eat and I have to throw some out…"

"I can always feel everyone's love. That alone is enough for me, so I'd appreciate it if you could send less tomatoes from now on."

"Take a look. Don't these sprouting tomatoes look absolutely delectable when lit by the sun?"

"I'd be grateful if everyone started loving tomatoes just as much as I do."

"I dream of a world where everyone loves tomatoes; wouldn't it be just splendid—"

Nico & Sage: ……

Jude: I've never had a post on HeliChan blow up that much before.

Take a look at the comments. It looks like the fans got the message, and so many of them are swearing to love tomatoes.

Also, it seems like tomatoes have become a hit product and more people have been visiting farms recently, so I got sent some thank-you messages for some reason.

That's Bianchi for you. Everything worked out thanks to their instructions.

Bianchi: … Y'know, I kind of feel guilty in a different way, now…

Nico: So no more tomatoes, huh…

Sage: A-Ahaha…

Stories Masterlist

Sage ・ Nico ・ Jude ・ Bianchi

─────────

I took it for granted,

So I got too close, and lost sight of it.

When night follows night again and again,

The world starts to seem so dark.

But I'm sure the sky stays dark

Because you shine so brightly, right?

The words from someone dear lit a flame in you

That's been glowing this whole time, so now—

You can be saved— I say so.
Jude・Bianchi: I won't leave you all alone.

My regrets shout out, calling for me,

But I now have the words that'll set me free from them, don't I?

Sage・Nico: Night is nothing to fear, right?

I've been chasing the object of my admiration,

And I finally made it, all on my own.

I never looked back,

Because you all stuck by me, dreaming the same dream.

But I'm sure the path you take

Will be yours alone to tread.

Those words from someone dear always shrouded us in light.

They shined so brightly,

As if to light the way back home for us.

I'd be yearning to see you,

If I had stayed the same old me.

I've let go of those tattered memories,

So I can keep on lighting my own path.

You can be saved— I say so.

I won't leave you all alone.

Jude・Bianchi: My regrets

Shout out, calling for me,

But I now have the words that'll set me free from them.

I'll always be there to shine my light on you.

I'll make this a place you can call home.

These feelings will always connect us,

So we can keep treading through

This world lit by dawn.

Nico・Jude・Bianchi: Since we have a place to call home.

Songs Masterlist

"Brilliant rivalry"

Characters: Akira, Ren, Bianchi & Jude

Ren: (Today's training was especially hard…)

(But I think the moves I learned will come in handy.)

(Even if someone comes up from behind—)

Akira: Woah…!

Ren: You…

Akira: Watch what you're doing, wouldja? I'll get thrown off guard if ya suddenly grab my arm like that!

Ren: You’re the one who was trying to pull something. What do you want?

Akira: OUCH, that really hurts! Let go already! I was just tryin' to spook ya!

Ren: ……

Akira: Phew, that was a close call… What even was that? Ya grabbed me super fast…

Ren: … Marion taught me how to do that earlier.

Akira: Hmm...

I got you!

Ren: I won't fall for some childish trick like that.

Akira: Then what about this?!

Ren: You better not be thinking that's enough to take me down.

Akira: Grr… then what about…!

Bianchi: Oh?

Just a second, dearies!

Akira & Ren: ?!

Akira: Shit… You remember, right, Ren?

Ren: … Y-Yeah, I do.

Akira: We gotta run before he makes us wear some weird cosplay!

Ren: Yeah…

Bianchi: Ah, wait just one second!

───

Bianchi: WAIT FOR ME~~~!

Ren: H-He's still chasing us…!

Akira: Guess we gotta get outta here. Follow me, Ren!

Ren: ……

Bianchi: Wait…! Goodness, just why are they running away?!

───

Akira: *heaving*... We're probably in the clear now…

Ren: *sigh*... I can never have a moment's peace when you're around…

Akira: Huh?! I didn't even do anythin'!

Ren: Shut it. It's your fault we're even in this mess.

Akira: Oi, where are you off to?

Ren: I can't stay hidden if I'm with someone as noisy as you are. I'm heading back by myself.

Akira: Do ya know the way back?

Ren: Of course I do.

Akira: … The tower's in the opposite direction, y'know.

Ren: !

… This is because you made us run to God knows where…

Akira: We wouldn't have escaped if I didn't, though?!

Ren: ……

Akira: He might still be searching inside the tower, so let's patrol a little before headin' back.

Ren: … Fine.

───

Akira: Ooh, d'ya remember that shop, Ren?

Ya really wanted one of the cat plushies they were selling, right?

Ren: … No, I don't.

Akira: Seriously? Ya kept whinin' at outside the store about how you were "gonna take the kitty cat home"—

Ren: I didn't say that.

Akira: You did.

Ren: No I didn't.

Akira: You totally did!

Ren: I didn't, and even if I did, I don't remember.

Akira: … *sigh*, you were so much cuter back the—

Bianchi: There you are!

Akira: Geh! He's still chasing us?!

Ren: What do we do…?

Akira: Now that it's come to this, we've gotta scatter!

Bianchi: Don't move now, sweeties—

Akira: Ren! Let's meet up at "the kitty cat's left ear"!

Ren: …!

Bianchi: My goodness, why do you keep running away…?!

───

Akira: *sigh*... I'm sure there's no way he'd find us here…

(... Ren isn't here yet. We had to go in different directions, but I wonder if he can get here on his own…)

(There's a chance he doesn't even remember—)

Akira: ! Over here, Ren!

Ren: He didn't follow you?

Akira: Hehe, I used my genius-level super speed to leave him in the dust!

In any case, I'm surprised ya made it.

Ren: … We used to come here all the time as kids.

Akira: Yeah! Ya started callin' it "The Kitty Cat's Left Ear" to tell it apart from the other parks.

Ren: I don't remember that—

Jude: Found them.

Akira & Ren: ?!

Jude: I caught them, Bianchi. Huh, you didn't ask me to? Haha, well of course I'd lend you a helping hand when you're in need. We'll be waiting in the park.

Akira: Let go! Let go of me, you jerk!!

Ren: …! You…!

Bianchi, Thank goodness… Sweeties—

Akira: LEGGO OF ME~~~~!!!!!

Ren: Rgh…!

Bianchi: Wait, if you struggle like that…!

───

Bianchi: Alright, you should be good to go. I noticed your clothes were fraying, so I was worried about them tearing.

Akira: Woah, I didn't even notice!

Ren: Sorry for the trouble.

Bianchi: No need to apologize, dear. But for you to run away… were you that scared that I'd get mad over your little scuffle in the hallway?

Akira: Nah, we were—

Ren: I guess we were.

Bianchi: I just did a quick patch up, so don't be too rough in them, okay? I'll get you some new uniforms once we get back to the tower.

You sweeties are still growing, so I might have to make some adjustments to the size.

Akira: Ooh, looks like all our training's payin' off ♪

Ren: Growing, huh…

Jude: Bianchi came all this way because they were worried about your clothes, so you better be grateful.

Bianchi: No one asked you…

Akira: No, it was a big help. Thanks a bunch, Bianchi!

Ren: … Thanks.

Bianchi: Oh my, why aren't you an honest kitty and doggy! Well then, let's head back and get you dearies all dressed up in your new uniforms ♪

Story Masterlist

"Moments of Bliss"
Characters: Jude, Bianchi, Sage, Nico, & Robin

Jude: ......

Sage: Did you get a message from Bianchi-san, Jude-kun?

Jude: Yeah.

Sage: Hehe, it's written all over that happy face of yours. Did they finish up their work?

Jude: Seems like it. They said they're coming over once they clean up.

Nico: *chew*... Were we gonna eat dinner together?

Sage: We were. You already dug right in, though.

Nico: Don't worry, this isn't dinner.

Sage: Ahaha… you always look so happy when you're eating. It's like you're in bliss.

Nico: Can't say I'm not. When do you feel like that, Sage?

Sage: Let me think…

When I'm running, I guess? It's enjoyable, and it makes me feel like my worries are flying away.

Nico: Hmm…

Sage: Ah, what about you, Jude-kun?

Nico: I don't think you need to ask tha—

Jude: Whenever I'm with Bianchi, of course.

Sage: Ahaha… well that was a dumb question.

Jude: It truly was.

Sage: Ah… In that case, are you happy when you're with us, too?

Jude: As long as Bianchi's around, I suppose so.

Sage: Um… so then… right now…

Jude: ……

Sage: Wait, don't tell me! I'm not ready yet…

Nico: Don't you remember what he was like when we first met, Sage?

Sage: Huh?

Nico: He was super hostile towards us to make sure we didn't go near Bianchi.

But after Bianchi told him to get along with us, he grew a little more friendly.

Sage: That's true…

It's been so long that I forgot all about that, but is that still why you're friendly to us?

Jude: ……

Sage: Urgh…

Nico: You probably shouldn't ask that.

Sage: Y-You're right…

Jude: Everything Bianchi tells me is "absolute" to me.

That's why I'm still honoring their words, but well… it's not like I hate you guys.

Sage: …!

So then, Jude-kun thinks we're—

Jude: I don't think I need to tell you this, but there are two categories of people to me: "Bianchi" and "Not Bianchi".

"Not Bianchi" includes anyone I don't care one way or the other about.

Sage: Huh… So are we just one of those people to you?

Jude: ……

Let me think… I guess you two would be the "and"?

Sage & Nico: The "and"...?

Bianchi: Just what are you being so uppity about?

Jude: Bianchi…!

Bianchi: You should be grateful to Sagie and Nico-chan for entertaining someone like you for the past 3 years.

Jude: I see… it's just as you say.

Sage, Nico, thank you for getting along with me all these years. I can't thank you enough…!

Sage & Nico: ……

Bianchi: Speaking of, you're actually rather self-absorbed, aren't you?

What on earth do you mean "Bianchi" and "not Bianchi"? No single person is that clear-cut…

You're acting like you have no interest in anyone besides me, but there's one exception, isn't there?

Jude: What?

Bianchi: Robin. It's obvious you can't stand him.

Jude: ……

Sage: That's true… I always wondered why Jude-kun doesn't seem to like him.

Bianchi: I can't tell you how many times I've told Jude to get along with him, but he just doesn't listen.

Sage: Isn't that pretty incredible?

Jude: ……

Nico: *chew*

Jude: Why are you concerned about me hating that man, Bianchi?

Bianchi: Wha…

Jude: Are you… concerned about me?

If you're concerned, I'll tell you… but are you???

Bianchi: Q-Quit that! Would you please not make gross misassumptions like that?!

Jude: So you're not?

Bianchi: Of course I'm not!!!

───

Bianchi: Having a nice meal with everyone was a good change of pace, wasn't it?

I was at a loss of what to do for a little, but now I think I can make some headway…♪

Hmm~ I wonder if this fabric fits the look more? But this one also looks lovely…

Jude: ……

───

Jude: (—Today's training went pretty well.)

(Well, that's to be expected. Not only am I on the same team as Bianchi, but we're sharing a room too, after all.)

(I knew in my heart it would work out, but luck was really on my side… No, it was fate for everything to turn out like this.)

(Alright then, what to do? Bianchi said they'd head back first—)

Bianchi: Thank you so much, Robin.

Jude: …!

Robin: There's no need to thank me. All I did was lend an ear.

Bianchi: But I'm feeling a lot better now.

… I'm sorry for complaining to you out of nowhere. I'm sure I just wanted to talk with someone.

Robin: You can reach out to me if you ever want to have a chat.

Bianchi: Really?

Robin: Of course. I'm your mentor, after all.

Bianchi: Thank you, Robin… It's really reassuring to hear you say that.

Jude: …… Bianchi…?

───

Jude: ……

???: — … Hey.

Hey, Jude! Are you listening?

Jude: …!

What's wrong, Bianchi?

Bianchi: Nothing, really… It's just impossible to focus when you stand there and stare at me like that.

Jude: Haha, sorry about that. Should I move farther away, then?

Bianchi: The problem is that you're watching me…

Whatever, just sit on that work stool. I'm not using it right now.

I want to see how the shimmer looks when it moves, so I'll need you to be my mannequin later. That body is the only thing good about you, after all.

Jude: Of course, Bianchi. Call me whenever you need me.

Bianchi: Goodness gracious…

Jude: (... Moments like these are definitely when I'm at bliss.)

Stories Masterlist

"Do It Yourself!"
Characters: Jude, Will, Bianchi, and Jack

Will: (Oh no… I said I'd be a little late, but I ended up needing more time than I thought I would.)

(Has Akira already started his personal training, I wonder? I feel bad for making him wai—)

… Huh?

Jude: ……

Will: (W-Who's that…?)

(And what are they doing, for that matter? … Is that a hammer?)

Jude: …?

Will: Ah—

Jude: Who are you?

Will: I… I'm Will Sprout, a rookie! I'm a part of South Sector's…

Jude: Huh. What does a rookie need from me?

Will: Um, well… I reserved this room so I could do some personal training…

Jude: This room?

Will: … Huh? Why isn't Akira here?

E-Excuse me! I need to double check something!

Jude: ……

Will: !! Uwahh, I messed up…

I'm so sorry! It appears I was mistaken about the time!

What is wrong with me… I apologize for disturbing you…

Jude: I don't really mind.

Will: ……

Jude: What?

Will: Ah! Um… what are you doing?

Jude: I'm building a chair.

Will: A chair? In the training room?

Jude: A citizen asked me to make one for them.

Some strange rumor spread after I repaired something for some restaurant, so I sometimes get this kind of request.

I'm using this room because it's soundproof. Jack got mad when I tried to work in the Anti-Eclipse unit's shared room, you see.

Will: O-Oh… well, I guess the noise wouldn't be an issue anymore in this room, but…

Jack: OIII!!!

This room is for training, not DIY!

Jude: Again…? Weren't you mad because I was being too loud before?

Jack: It is against the rules to use this room for anything other than training. I must ask you to halt your activities this instant.

Jude: (sighs)... Then where can I work on this?

Will: U-Um…! I know a place that might be okay…!

───

Jude: … Good thing you told me about this place.

It doesn't seem like using a hammer or electric saw would garner any noise complaints if I work here.

Will: And you're not breaking any rules either ♪

Jude: You suggesting this place was a big help. … Will, was it? Thank you.

Will: D-Don't mention it! I was the one who got in your way earlier… I'm glad I could help.

Jude: What are you doing?

Will: I'm tending to the flowerbeds. This is my hobby, you see… Plants are living things, so I come by to give them water and remove the fallen leaves everyday.

Jude: Huh…

Will: Um, may I ask your name? I'm seen you around, so I know you're a member of the Anti-Eclipse unit, but…

Jude: Jude Ares. I'm part of the 12th generation, one above yours.

Will: I knew it…!

Jude: You knew it?

Will: Ah! Um, well… I've heard of you before…

Jude: That so?

Will: (I heard that he's really popular among the citizens, especially among women, and is always receiving gifts.)

(Apparently his popularity matches Faith-kun's, so his name left an impression on me…)

Jude: ……

Will: (Yeah, I can definitely see why he'd receive lots of presents.)

(Building stuff at the citizens' requests… that's so cool…)

Jude: What?

Will: !! It's nothing…

Ah, but I'd like you to teach me about DIY, if possible.

I'm a total beginner, but can you make those kinds of things easily?

Jude: … Do you want to build a chair like this one?

Will: Ah, no. I was thinking about redoing the layout of the flowerbeds….

I've been frequently tending to the flowers since my admittance, so I got permission to do as I like with them. Since I received a new space, I was thinking that it would be nice to make some changes.

Jude: So stuff like making frames with brick or tile, and putting up fences, huh…

They're not that difficult to build. Once I'm finished with this chair, I wouldn't mind showing you how.

Will: Are you sure?!

Jude: I'm off today, and Bianchi's cooped up with their work for the design department… To be honest, I have more free time than I know what to do with.

I only ever do this kind of stuff when I'm dying of boredom in the first pla—

Will: You really are cool, Jude-san!

Jude: Hm?

Will: Willingly doing favors not only for the citizens, but even for someone you just met…

You're a model hero! I'd like to learn from you!

Jude: ? What are you talking abou—

Bianchi: KYAAAA...! WHAT ON EARTH ARE YOU DOING??!!!

Will & Jude: …!

Bianchi: Put that hammer down right now, Jude!

Jude: Got it.

Bianchi: Over here, Will-chan! Hurry on over!

Will: ???

Bianchi: Just what are you trying to do, Jude?! I can't believe this!

Thank goodness I was here by chance… Had I been any later, Will-chan's life might've been…

Will: My life?! What on Earth are you talking about, Bianchi-san…

Bianchi: He probably got into one of his moods, and tried to have some kind of strength contest with you, right?

With such a dangerous weapon in hand too… what were you thinking, doing that to such an adorable rookie?!

Will: I-I think we have a misunderstanding here! He was using that hammer not as a weapon, but to build a chair!

Bianchi: Huh?

Will: He was building a chair for one of the citizens. A strength contest is something he'd never….

Bianchi: Is that true, Jude?

Jude: Yes, perhaps… but none of that matters anymore.

Will: Huh?

Jude: Have you managed to clear off part of your work, Bianchi? Did you finish making a nice outfit?

Bianchi: I-I'm still not finished. I just came out for a change of pace…

I'll apologize for misconstruing the situation, so could you please not get in my way?

Jude: A change of pace, huh? To be able to see Bianchi at such a time… I'm surely the happiest man in the world.

Will: ……

Bianchi: Were you even listening to me? Besides, you were working on your DIY work, weren't you? Keep on at it, why won't you?

Jude: There's something more important than that—than my entire life—standing right in front of me.

Bianchi: Goodness, can't you tell I'm saying you're annoying me? Do not follow me!

Jude: Wait for me, Bianchi…!

Will: U-Um… you're forgetting… your hammer, you know…?

Stories Masterlist

"Sweet Caution"
Characters: Bianchi, Jude, Sage, Nico, Nova, & Lily

Nova: … —'Scuse me~ Sorry for being late, Bianchi-san…

… You guys seem like you're having fun…?

Bianchi: Instructor Lily came to hang out, so we've been chatting over some tea.

Lily: They told me they couldn't get any more work done until Nova gets here, so I invited myself inside.

Nova: Hmm, I'm not sure if I should feel sorry or not… Ah, I have what you asked for~

Lily: Is that Bianchi's weapon? The design looks a little different.

Bianchi: I used this weapon during the Halloween League back when I was still a rookie. I'd like to use it as a reference for something.

Lily: Ah, so this was the first outfit you designed?

Bianchi: That's right ♪ Thank you, Doctor. I'll pour you some tea, so be a dear and sit down, won't you?

Nova: You sure? Weren't the two of you having some kind of girls' talk?

Bianchi: We were just having some small talk. There's no need to be so considerate, so just take a seat.

Lily: Besides, it's not just the two of us, Nova.

Nova: Huh?

Nova: Uwawah?! Sorry, Jude-kun! I didn't notice you were here at all~

Jude: I don't mind. I noticed you showed up just now too, after all.

Lily: What's up with you two…

Jude: Ah, what a shame… It's already gotten this late. The Anti-Eclipse unit's meeting is going to start soon…

Bianchi: So I'll finally be free of your gaze, thank goodness. Off with you, now.

Jude: Got it, Bianchi. I'll see you later.

Bianchi: Say goodbye to the others, too.

Jude: Alright. I'll see you again sometime, Instructor Lily, Doctor.

Nova: Ahaha… Have a summery day...¹

Bianchi: Goodness gracious…

Lily: Jude's the same as ever. I almost have to respect him for how little he changed since he got admitted.

Bianchi: I wish you'd respect me, instead. Just how many years have I had to put up with that…

Nova: Well you two seem to be close as ever.

Bianchi: Don't say that, please, Doctor. That guy just clings to me as he pleases, so it's not like I care for him, 'kay?

Nova: But don't the two of you have great chemistry? Y'know, as the invincible duo of the Anti-Eclipse unit and all.

Bianchi: We have good chemistry as a group of four, not just the two of us.

Nova: Well, I guess that's true…

Lily: That wasn't the case when you all first got admitted, though.

He's always worked extremely well with you, but not so much with Sage and Nico.

It was more like he overdid himself to make sure no one got in the way of your cooperation.

Bianchi: It was positively dreadful.

Nova: How'd you start to work well together?

Bianchi: We…

───

Sage: Nico! Can you cover over there?

Nico: Got it.

Sage: Haaaah…!

Nico: Hup!

Lily: Looking good, guys. I'm going to up the level a bit and increase the number of enemies.

Sage: Huh?! P-Please wait a second…!

Nico: I have to widen my range of attack.

Sage: Bianchi-san, Jude-kun! Can you handle it over there?!

Bianchi: Okay, leave it to—

Jude: HAAAAAAAAH…!

Sage: Jude-kun?!

Jude: It's quicker this way! Don't tell me what to do! TAKE THAT AND THAT AND THAT AND THAT…!

Bianchi: That guy…

───

Bianchi: Never fight in such a hideous manner again.

Jude: Sorry, Bianchi.

Bianchi: We're learning about teamwork right now. Sagie and Nico-chan are here for us to form a team together. Got that?

Jude: Got it.

Bianchi: Learn to cooperate with the other two as well. You have to put some effort in no matter how much extra time it takes, got it?

Jude: Yes. I've got it, Bianchi.

Lily: Did he really get it, I wonder…

Sage & Nico: ……

───

Nova: —So then after that, Jude-kun started putting more effort in, huh~

Lily: He still doesn't put that much effort in.

Nova: Huh?

Lily: If he doesn't put that much effort into cooperating, he can finish things pretty quickly.

But right after Bianchi warned him and we restarted the mock battle, his actions changed to an astonishing degree.

Bianchi: That's right… It surprised me too.

Nova: W-What are you talking about?!

Lily: It seems he's capable of working well with anyone if he puts his mind to it.

No… It'd be more accurate to say he's capable of doing anything as long as Bianchi orders him to.

Nova: ……

Bianchi: There's seriously something wrong with that guy…

Lily: Jude has potential that only Bianchi's words can pull out. I've seen a lot of different guys over the years, but he's one of a kind.

Nova: So he's a hero who specializes in Bianchi-san, huh… I guess you can't deny the fact that the two of you have great chemistry.

Bianchi: Enough of that… I'm the one who has to put up with him following me around like a weirdo.

(sighs)...

───

Jude: —I'm coming in, Bianchi.

Bianchi…?

Bianchi: ……

Jude: (They're sleeping…)

(They've been working hard, I'm sure. Once they start a project, they immerse themself in it to the point of forgetting to rest.)

Bianchi: Nngh…

Jude: (Is this… a picture of us from back then?)

(This is of our first Halloween League. How nostalgic…)

(Since they were left in charge of the outfits, Bianchi was pretty enthusiastic about the whole affair.)

(They said they were going to pull out our charm to its fullest potential, and was particular about all sorts of things.)

Bianchi: My heels need to be 5 centimeters tall.

This will ensure the most beautiful balance when the two of us stand side by side.

Jude: (I'll work hard to make sure the beautiful balance Bianchi speaks of won't be disturbed.)

(You², who pursue beauty so passionately, are more beautiful than anything else, after all—)

───

1. Nova's catchphrase is お疲れさまーふぃーるど, which combines the word otsukaresama with his last name Summerfield. ↑

2. As far as I'm aware, this is the first (and only, for now) time that Jude has explicitly referred to Bianchi with "you" in the original text. While he uses "omae" for everyone else, he refers to Bianchi with "kimi" instead.↑

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May 2025

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Page Summary

Gast's Other Side 4* Hero Story
Bianchi's Rising 3* Hero Story
Sage's Bash Street Boys 4* Hero Story
Trust fake
Jude's Rising 4* Hero Story
Victor's Teacher 3* Hero Story
Jude's Teacher 4* Hero Story
Jude's Bunny 3* Hero Story
Bianchi's 1st Character Story
Jude's 2nd Character Story
Jude's 1st Character Story
dawn light
Akira's Brilliant Rivalry 4* Story
Jude's Initial 4* Hero Story
Jude's Initial 3* Hero Story
Bianchi's Initial 4* Hero Story

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