gyaxa | Entries tagged with sage skyfall

"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

"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

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

Sage
─────────

(Came back to the sun...)

The night set in thick,

Almost as if to hide

What's in front of us and mock us.

Can you withstand the despair rooting you in place?

(Tinged with shadows,)

(Darkness rules the world)

That’s what this unwelcoming city asks me.

No, I won't stay

(Tinged with shadows,)

(Call sunlight)

Just like cranberries scattered across the street,

The future could end up

Becoming a jumbled mess,

But I’ll reject that idea, and now—

Just because I want it back

I’m on a hunt for the truth, and the fallen light.

These hands will gently lift the sun back up

And bring in the dawn…

Slipping through the smallest of cracks,

The shadows settled
Onto our dazzling daily life for good.

With labored breath, I make it one second farther,

(Tinged with shadows,)

(Darkness rules the world)

I wander bruised and battered through the darkness

Of this fallen night.

(Tinged with shadows,)

(Call sunlight)

I’ve been searching for the truth this whole time,

Perhaps yearning to find

A pulse that might have leaked out

From the hole that opened up.

Just because I want it back

I’ll make the outline of the world I believe in show up.

No matter what, I’ll create

A future where the two of can stay here together.

Someone’s prayers,

Just like forgotten neon,

Seem to run through this screaming night...

The scattered realities

Got tangled up in what’s in fact an error,

And I can’t see them coming undone,

But I'll reject that idea, and now—

Just because I want it back

I’m on a hunt for the truth, and the fallen light.

As if gently taking hold of my dream, the heroes

Lift the sun back up and bring in the dawn...

Haa…

Songs 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

"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

"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.↑

Stories Masterlist