The blaring alarm abruptly pulled me from sleep. It's weird how I have to be up on time now. Going back to my old routine isn't as simple as I thought. Back in the UK, life was pretty unstructured – eat, sleep, play, repeat. But now, I had to drag myself out of bed at the ungodly hour of 6 am. Can't afford to be late on day one, and strangely, I'm not as sleepy as before. At least that's a good thing.
Gathering my willpower, I got ready to face the day ahead. Downstairs, the smell of Bolognese hung in the air. Yep, the same dish that brings back memories – that day when Nikki got mad because I calculated the answer instead of going along with her quiz. I waited for Mayu, enjoying the meal more than I remembered.
After a bit, Mayu finally came downstairs. But there was a problem: she was still in her pyjamas, and they weren't exactly staying put. I quickly looked away, my face probably redder than a tomato. Despite the awkwardness, it seemed like the universe was determined to make this day unforgettable.
Yuki: Um Mayu.Your clothes. I mean, they are kinda...
She looked at herself, feeling too much embarrassed she covered herself and ran upstairs.
Mayu: I am sorry I forgot to change! >-<
I've grown accustomed to her quirks over time. It's almost like I had a hunch about her clumsiness. There have been countless "incidents" that have unfolded, leaving her visibly flustered. But you know what? It never really bothers me. It's not like those moments change anything between us. Besides, I don't have the right to look, right? That might be the end of me if I decided it myself.
I might have assumed that Mayu was changing through the years, shedding some of her old traits. Yet, her shyness, that introverted essence, and her unmistakable clumsiness – they've held on steadfastly. Strangely, this constancy brings a certain happiness, knowing that the girl I fell for remains essentially the same. It's a comforting thought.
And yet, it still boggles my mind that this is the same girl who exhibited that streak of jealousy that night of the concert.
I sat waiting for Mayu on the sofa. After about 15 minutes, she finally appeared, dressed in her uniform. Once she finished her breakfast, we headed off to "Ace Academy" together. My bike, which I humorously named 'Pegasus,' was parked and ready. It's a bit of an odd name, I admit. The surprising part? It looked just as fresh as the day I got it. I quickly checked the battery before we hit the road. Luckily, it was fully charged. I couldn't help but chuckle, remembering how Nikki regretted the artwork she created that one night but still I made her wish come true.
On The Way...
Yuki: Okay Mayu, I am gonna raise the speed so buckle up.
Mayu: Wait, I need some time to prepare myself for that kind of speed.
Yuki: Just hold me close and we will be there in a sec.
Mayu: But I sti...
I raised the speed before she was about to give a response.
Mayu: Kyaaaaa!
Mayu's scream was so loud it frightened me, thus I slowed down.
Yuki: why are you screaming that much?
Mayu: I am scared.... ( >﹏<.)
Yuki: Didn't we go on a Rollercoaster before? Are you still scared of speed after that? Or perhaps you don't trust me?
Mayu: That's not it um...That time was different. Okay, do as you like. (,,>﹏<,,)
I decided to gradually increase the speed this time. Surprisingly, Mayu didn't seem too scared; in fact, her grip on me tightened – maybe a bit too much. I shrugged off the thought as we passed by changing landscapes. I chose to concentrate on the road ahead. In just a few minutes, we arrived at Ace Academy.
I navigated the parking area until I located my assigned spot, where I neatly parked my trusty 'Pegasus.' We both disembarked and made our way toward the academy. However, something was different this time – Mayu linked her arm with mine, but there was an oddly protective air about it. It occurred to me that she might still have lingering doubts about that incident when another girl made a move on me. It was a game, though, and I had no control over the circumstances. Dwelling on it could only sour the day ahead. So, I focused on appearing unaffected and carrying on as usual.
Near the gate, I spotted a trio of familiar faces: a slender, brown-haired guy, a vibrant red-haired girl, and a pink-haired girl observing the unfolding scene.
Kaori: Stop being a pervert.
Shou: How am I the perv? You always blame me for anything.
Yunna: Please calm down Kaori just let it go.
As Expected old faces...
Yuki: Hey Guys!
Shou: Broseph save me! (said hiding behind me)
Yuki: You did something again?
Shou: I swear it's a misunderst...
Kaori: Yuki, leave him he is guilty.
Yuki: Okay Okay just leave the matter Kaori. I am back and the first thing I witness is your original words, is it fate?
Kaori: He is like that I don't have a choice. He deserves it.
Yunna: Guys I need to go, I am in a bit of a hurry my classes are starting now.Cya
Yunna ran off for her classes.
Yuki: Well I too have classes. I have to get going.
Shou: Wait Broseph she is gonna kill me.
Yuki: Just apologize to her and she might rethink
Shou: What do u mean "rethink" (said being afraid of Kaori)
Mayu: Umm guys. I think there is no point in doing that Kaori just forgive him.
Kaori: Fine if you say so but there won't be next time. I am heading for my classes too.Bye >:
Yuki: She was in a fierce mood. Anyway, Cya Mayu!!♡ and should I suppose.
Shou: Hey what's with that..aa.. ahh wait wait.
As I looked back Mayu was dragging Shou's ear while dragging him to classes. Well, I suppose that's usually what happens in the end. Btw I never asked about what happened with that girl. Shou did say she was her type and if I recall her name was Ari. She was from Daejeon, South Korea I suppose.
I headed for my class which was Robotics. Hmm, it's a new subject for me. We didn't have this subject till last year but I chose it since the seniors said it to be useful for my current studies.
When I entered my class there were probably much more pilots than my previous year. I saw three seats available in the last row near the window and sat on the best seat possible. Window seats are the best nothing can be better than some fresh air in the morning. There was nothing much to read so I just watched an episode of my favourite anime. It was airing this season "When I got out of the dungeon I found myself a level 9999 sword and used it to battle against demon lord".Even though the title is so long I loved this show since it started which was a year ago. Season 2 came this week. Moments later the professor entered the class and began the class with an announcement.
Professor: Hello Students welcome to your new academic year. I am Adam Smith and will be teaching Robotics. But before we start our new session I would like to introduce two new students. (he gestures for them to come in).
A Bright light pink-haired girl and a golden-haired girl.
Sakura: My name is Sakura Hategawa. Pleased to meet you all. I hope we can get along.
This girl, looked quite unique although I don't think her intentions were clear. Her aura was a little suspicious I can say. And the way she introduced gave me bad vibes that this might be something too better or worse.
Mahiru:Hell...o...ever...yone!Um..my name is Mahi..ru Shiina.I hope to get along as well!!!
Meanwhile, this introduction made me pretty sure she was shy and sweet-natured. And she was a little cute I can say. Okay, this can be the angle for this session.
Although I can't say this year would go without any troubles...
My brain: Are you out of your mind calling someone else cute?you cheater!!
Wait what did just happen? I didn't mean it that way. Wasn't that Mayu's Yandere mode coming in sense to my mind? Okay Okay, let's just focus on what happens next.
After their introduction, they sat near my seat. Well, it wasn't like they had a choice after the rest seats were full. Sakura sat next to me. Yea, I was a little nervous sitting next to a girl I don't know but all of that was gone when a conversation finally occurred.
Sakura: Hey there...
Yuki: Hello. I'm Yuki Togashi. Nice to meet you, Sakura and... Mahiru. ( ' ‿ ' )
Sakura:Nice to meet you too. (｡•̀‿ -｡)♡
Mahiru:Umm nice to meet yo..u. ^_^
Yea, clearly I knew this was bad news. I might get in trouble if it evolves further. I must stay on my guard whenever I am with Sakura. Before any more of the conversation could go on professor finally started the lecture.
Professor: Okay students please continue whatever you are doing after the class has ended. So with that let's begin our first lecture. So Students as you know Robotics is .....
The whole class ended in a buzz. I did learn the basics pretty well. As I can recall my schedule all of the subjects are divided into 3 parts(1,2&3) and each of them is based on different topics. I am currently learning 4 subjects Robotics, Pilot Handling and Mechanisms, Pilot Healthcare & Advanced Algorithms. And each of them has a separate day except Pilot Handling and Mechanisms which are on 2 days Tuesday and Thursday.
After the class ended...
Professor: Okay Students please revise today's notes and be prepared for pt 2. And Sakura Hategawa and Mahiru Shiina and Yuki Togashi please come to my office.
Wait why was I called? Have I got bad luck now? Curse You Sakura. I don't have a choice, do I?
I packed my notebooks and was about to head for the office...
Sakura: Hey why are you running away alone?
Yuki: I actually have somewhere to be so...
Sakura: Then how are we supposed to know where the office is??
Yuki: You can use that app on your phone...
Sakura: Oops looks like my phone doesn't catch the network. Mind showing us.
Yuki:(Sighing) Okay Follow me!!
Mahiru: Umm Yuki before that...Could show me where the...
Yuki: Right beside that corner take a right.
Mahiru: Thank you...
Yuki: I'll be waiting downstairs near the stairs. Just let me know when you're ready. Bye. (ok I escaped finally, but not for long!!)
I parted ways with them and headed to meet Mayu. Thankfully, her class was on a lower floor, which was a bit of a relief. Glancing at my watch, I noted the time – it was 10:15 am. Only five more minutes to go before I could finally see her and hopefully restore some good luck to my day. However, as time ticked away, it became apparent that fate had other plans, and I never had the chance to catch a glimpse of her.
Sakura: C'mon let's go now!
Yuki: hmm ok.. ☉_☉ (At least I can hide the expression)
Why does this always happen!! Upon entering the office, I found him casually sipping his coffee amidst a scattered array of notes strewn across the floor. Evidently, the sight suggested he might be grappling with a touch of stress.
Adam: Yuki, I just wanted to drop off these certificates and prizes from the 2053 finals. A huge shoutout for leading Team Hyper X to that victory against Akira! If you could also lend a hand by giving out the awards to the other three, that would be fantastic. My schedule's pretty packed right now, so your assistance would be a major help.
Yuki: Thank you, Professor. I'll make sure to hand them out to everyone by this evening.
Adam: You may leave now.
I left his office and paused, responding to Mahiru's subtle signal to wait. While I stood there, I noticed Mayu making her way downstairs – a usual occurrence, given the offices' location on the ground floor. Spotting me, she quickened her pace and approached with a warm smile.
Mayu: You waiting for something?Perhaps Someone?
Yuki: Yes, indeed. Two new students have joined our class, and that's why we were summoned here. But never mind that for now. Mayu, could you please pass this over to Shou, here's something for you as well.
Mayu: And that one?
Yuki: I am heading to the pilot's lounge and if I meet Kaori there I can give her these.
Mayu: Okay then let's meet there.
Yuki: Yea, I will be waiting for you.
Mayu:Cya!!♡
Yuki:Cya Mayu!!♡
That went well. Now, let's see. I'm planning to grab lunch at the pilot lounge, and afterwards, I've got another task lined up – a meeting with Valerie at the Hangar. I'm quite curious to check on my Eagle and see how it's been. I quickly sent Valerie a text about our meetup timings and received a reply confirming 6:00 pm. It's convenient as it aligns with my schedule after the last class. As I was lost in these thoughts, a sharp and shrill voice suddenly interrupted me.
Mahiru:Um Hello?Yuki?
Yuki: Ohh sorry there, I was kinda daydreaming.
Mahiru: Yuki... um, would you maybe consider becoming my friend?
Yuki: Sure, I will be happy to be your friend
Well, that caught me off guard. I had a hunch she could be quite shy, yet I was under the impression that we were already friends. Maybe she's a tad unsure about where we stand.
Sakura: Mind adding me as well?
Yuki: Huh?
Sakura: friend, I mean.
There are two choices either taking the risk or leave it as it was. With a deep breath, I rej.....
Yuki: Sure I don't see why not.
What is even going on inside me? Was I that nervous instead of no I said yes I hope I don't mess further in the future. But now I have to go along.
Sakura: Yay!! ^‿^
She is too exaggerated. Never mind I will leave her to it.
Mahiru: Hey, Yuki, I hope it's not too much to ask, but would you be willing to show us around the campus? We're kind of new here, and getting a guided tour from someone familiar like you would be helpful.
Yuki: I really could but I have to be somewhere like I said.
Sakura: For Lunch?
Yuki: More or less yea!
Mahiru: Mind if we tag along?
Okay, things are a bit tricky right now. I'm hoping to avoid Shou or Kaori here. Anyway, I agreed to their suggestion and headed over to the lounge, which fortunately was pretty close to our building. As I walked in, I spotted two familiar faces – Kaori and Mayu. Mayu gave me a friendly wave and gestured to the empty seat next to her. I quickly checked out the menu and decided on the special spaghetti, Mahiru and Sakura ordered the same. After placing my order, I joined the group, looking forward to a nice lunchtime chat.
Yuki: so this is...
Sakura: Hey guys nice to meet you all I am Sakura Hategawa, his girlfriend.♡
This is turning into a mess. I should have anticipated something like this from the start. I noticed Mayu slowly turning her gaze towards me. Oh boy, here comes her yandere mode. I need to find a way to calm her down, and quickly. Meanwhile, Kaori seemed engrossed in the recent news playing on public TV, completely oblivious to the situation. But Mayu's intense stare was starting to unnerve me.
Mayu: excuse me? Who?
Sakura: Like I said I am Yuki's...
Mayu: Oh, I see. Well, let me make this clear—I'm his real girlfriend, and I sincerely hope you don't make the situation any more complicated. Understand?
Those eyes appeared again. In that fleeting instant, a shiver ran down my spine, and I couldn't help but wonder if that could have been the end of me.
Sakura: Oops, my bad for the joke. I'm Sakura Hategawa, and this is Mahiru Shiina.I'm Sakura Hategawa, and this is Mahiru Shiina. Hope we can all get along smoothly...
Phew! Glad that didn't escalate any further. But hold on a sec, looking at her expression, it seems she must already know Sakura.
Mayu: Wait Sakura?
Sakura: Huh? Have we met somewhere before?
Mayu: Its me Mayu Akemi.Dont you remember me?
Sakura: Wait a second, Mayu? It's been quite a while, hasn't it, cousin? So, you're not just a member of Hyper X but also his girlfriend? That's quite a surprise!
Mayu: I never expected to meet you here, of all places. It's quite a surprise!
Sakura: Some circumstances led me to join this Academy.
Mayu: I wonder what those circumstances are... ( ' ‿ ' )
She shifts her gaze towards me, her tone taking on a more intimate and possessive quality as she leans in and whispers...
Mayu: You have so many questions to answer but for now I am dropping this topic.
Yuki: Yes mam!
Mayu: good.♡
As her tension eased, I found myself breathing a sigh of relief. The group engaged in chatter, and while I felt a bit like an outsider, I wasn't bothered. As long as Mayu was happy, that was all that counted. I wrapped up my lunch and bid Mayu goodbye.
Next on the schedule was a class with a new teacher, James Griffins. I was curious about the topic he'd be teaching today. I decided to take a moment to freshen up, heading to the washroom to splash water on my face and mentally prepare for the upcoming class.
The professor made his entrance, this time carrying a piece of equipment, and launched into a cheerful introduction.
James: "Welcome, students, to the opening of my inaugural class. I'm thrilled to have you all here. To get things rolling, I thought we'd start with a little challenge. Can anyone amongst you name the object that I'm currently holding?"
A student stood up before me
Student: Manipulator!
James: I value your response, but I respectfully disagree with the suggestion. Manipulators usually possess arm-like structures, and the provided descriptions don't exactly match the object I'm currently holding. Is there any other student who would like to venture a guess?
I raised my hand and answered...
Yuki: Um, I think that's an AI Gear Core. It's like the heart of a gear and it is used for storing and supplying all the energy a Gear needs to work. It's kinda like the Gear's power source.
James: A perfect answer!!! Class, let's all give a big round of applause for Yuki's outstanding answer. Your insightful contribution deserves this heartfelt recognition...
Yuki:Yuki Togashi.
James:Well done. Yuki!!
This moment made me feel like a VIP. Mahiru too was smiling and it was a sight for sore eyes. It's been a long time since I felt this happy.
James: Okay you can settle down Yuki. I will make sure to remember your name throughout this session. Now let's move to the important topics. Cores are of two types one is.....
This class has been the absolute best thing about this year, a truly amazing experience. But unfortunately, it ended quickly. They say time flies during good times and drags on like a slow tortoise during bad times.
After a long wait of six months, the time had finally arrived for me to reunite with Eagle. The excitement within me was palpable as I prepared to see this familiar technological marvel once again.
Yuki: Ok I am heading to the hangar to check out my gear. I am gonna catch you later. Why don't you both find a team to join in the meantime?
Mahiru: where can we find one? It's such a big area.
Yuki: Most teams hang out in the pilot's lounge. Why not search there you might find empty spots or might create a team with new students.
Sakura: Okay then see you later Yuki.
As our chat concluded, they embarked on their team search, and I set out to reunite with my beloved gear.
At the Hanger.....
Yuki: Hey Valerie.
Valerie: Took you long enough.♡
Allow me to introduce Valerie Belle, the engineer on our team. She's got a unique personality, a touch unconventional, but still a far safer option than being around Sakura. Valerie enjoyed playfully teasing me whenever the chance arose. Things took a different turn after she found out about my relationship with Mayu, and with her boyfriend in the picture, the atmosphere eased.
Learning about Valerie's past explained her teasing – it was a way to hide her feelings. She told me her mom had passed away, and this changed how she saw things. When something important is gone, we realize its real worth. Underneath her tough attitude, Valerie was kind-hearted, and her mom had always been there for her, even when they disagreed.
Yuki: Haven't seen you in a long time, Valerie.
Valerie: Ohh, so you missed me?♡
Yuki:(Her way of expressing things) yea you are one of my precious friends after all. So how are things going on?
Suddenly, her face turned fearful. I wondered if I had said something wrong or if there was a reason behind her reaction. Part of me wanted to ask more, but I didn't want to push too much.
Yuki: It's fine no need to answer if you don't want to. Take things at your own pace. I won't pressure you.
Valerie: Dave was stabbed 2 months ago, Now he is in a hospital in Osaka.
Something had occurred during my absence. The idea of finding out was intimidating; Valerie seemed to be coping with that incident. This made me ponder: what if I were in Dave's shoes? Would Mayu be alright? Would the fear of losing me grip her too? These thoughts were so unsettling, I could hardly bear to consider them.
Yuki: I am sorry to know that. How is he now?
Valerie: He's in a coma, some of his vital organs were damaged. I was unable to see the face of that killer as it was dark that night. We were on a walk and the moment after he was lying on the ground with severe blood stains and then...
Yuki: Okay calm down Valerie. Just take a deep breath. He will be fine, you will be able to see him again
There was no other option but to offer comfort, and a hug seemed like the best way to mend the moment. Her tears dampened my shirt as her heart raced – I could sense it. Although I felt a bit self-conscious about my actions, I knew it was the right thing to do. After a few minutes, she released the embrace.
Valerie: I am sorry for all the trouble I caused, I am fine now.
Yuki: You can talk to me anytime just give me a call I will do anything for a precious friend.
She seemed a bit calmer now. Her face was clearer, the tears had dried, and she was slowly getting back to her usual self.
Valerie: By the way, I've been wondering what happened to the core that was inside Eagle. I've searched everywhere but can't seem to find it.
Okay, I knew this question would come up eventually. I actually destroyed the core at Mayu's apartment. I believed that if I hadn't done that, my father's hard work might have been for nothing. But I'm aware it could create some issues, as there's no replacement core available. With a heavy feeling, I responded...
Yuki: I destroyed it.
Valerie: Why!
Yuki: It's mostly due to personal reasons. Leaving the core intact posed too much of a risk.
Valerie: So what about Eagle now?
Yuki: I think I would probably shut it down and move on to a new Gear.
Valerie: Why not just find another core and use it along with.....
Shou, Kaori & Mayu: Surprise!!!!
Yuki: Huh? Wait why are you guys here
I wasn't sure why Shou, Kaori, and Mayu were at the hangar at that time. There was a gift, neatly wrapped in a pink and yellow box, accompanied by a note that simply read, "Welcome Back"...
And the thing I found inside was.....
To Be Continued!!
Thanks for reading this novel. I am still a newbie, hope my work isn't that bad. The above story might have fanservice stuff but I thought not to change those and kept the Vn's feel similar. Although there were several mistakes and the story might feel a little odd at certain times but I am trying hard to make it better. This is a pure art of fiction.
This novel is based on a Visual Novel by Pixelfade "Ace Academy".The Fact that Ace Academy 2 was taking too much time to release so I just made its sequel. For now, I am working on 8-10 different endings and making a novel out of them. So there will be around 10 web novels, each having its own story. I will be creating different timelines for Yunna, Kaori, Valerie, and some more new characters which will be further revealed. So stay tuned!!!
Bonus:-
Mayu: Should we adopt a cat?
Yuki: Isn't one already enough?
Mayu: we have a cat?
I patted her head saying...
Yuki: Yea I have a lovely cat, and I am petting its head.
Mayu blushes so easily and it is so cute.
Mayu: Baka!! (,,>﹏<,,)
I held her in my arms saying...
Yuki: You are the only cat I will ever need.
Her cheeks turned an even deeper shade of red as my grip remained. As for what unfolded after that moment, well, that's a story for another time...
( ˆᗜˆ )