#reversedfool

𝙸.

After the club activities wrap up, the boxer often leaves the school immediately. He either swings by the Beef Bowl shop to eat something or head straight to the dorm. This day was no difference, Akihiko showered, dressed and set off to his favorite shop to grab a bite before returning to his room to revise some notes of today’s classes. And obviously, the hordes of girls were swarming around him like bodyguards keeping even the light of sunset away from him. Unfortunate for them, he never bothered to know or stop to listen to their annoying chatter, feet pacing towards the exit without bothering to stop for their fangirling. a victim of this charade was always Arisato who only wanted to get to know her senpai for better team tactics in the future but sadly all her efforts to call out for the third year male were for naught. Although, this never stopped her from what she wanted. Once he shook off the girls, Akihiko was finally able to walk peacefully. An exhausted voice rang out calling out his name making him stop and to turn to this person. Arisato? What does she want? waiting for her to catch her breath, he was confused but waited for her explanation. He couldn’t help but chuckle a bit. Once he heard her reasoning, he offered to treat her for  a beef bowl since he is also was meaning to get to know her more–of course for the same reason as her, nothing more nothing less.  after all, he did pick her to proceed him as a team leader after his little mishap back in April. Thankfully, she agreed and the two walked in. Both of them talked about some issues in the battle formation before Minako cracks a joke about Junpei to which Akihiko was puzzled at first then a smile tugged his lips. he might be slow with inside jokes but will try to humor as much as possible. aside from that little fail to lighten the mood, the vermilion leader came to understand the boxer a little bit. it’s hard to know that he cares about food and being healthy by just looking at him. for the majority of students in Gekkoukan High, he is the golden boy; a contrast to what she is seeing right now. He’s just…a normal boy who likes food. Spending some more time before the two walks back to the dorm. The star could feel that he also came to understand the fool better now. A cheerful soul indeed. 

𝙸𝙸.

With time, the Fool managed to know how and when she could approach the boxer; not when the mad fangirls around and not when he is busy training. it took her a while to know his schedule and where he goes when he is free. The auburn haired climbed down to the clubs corridor where akihiko is usually hanging to see if he has plans after school. once he saw her, he waved for the girl as she approached cheerful as ever before she asked about his plans. carefully thinking of his after school plans, he came to the conclusion that he is free since he has no club activities nor any school related meetings. A fist pump from the leader before she spun around happily and walked back to her class. Why would she be that happy to go home with him? it puzzled him. but he has no reason to refuse her offer since they are going in the same way. the bell rang declaring the end of the school day, akihiko climbed down from the third floor to the shoe locker area where he found minako standing there. he quickly changed his shoes and walked towards her. it was not a pleasant time for the vermilion leader because almost every girl at the campus was glaring at her for just walking with the boxing captain. and of course, he was not even aware of the pressure that was on the girl. At first, she was silent–unlike her usual banter self which made him slightly worry. He did not want to pressure her to talk, but certainly, she had something to talk about when she asked him to walk with her. 

“Hey . . are you okay? You’ve been awfully silent?”

Minako could only have ‘ you think who’s fault is that?’  face, but let out a soft sigh before regaining her brilliant smile back. She shook her head and replied that she is fine and how he is so unaware of the things that happen around him; to which he tilted his head in confusion. at least she could explain rather making it more complex for him. 

Minako tried to cheer him up after he frowned from being left in the dark side not knowing what she was talking about. they arrived at the station to take the monorail back to the city center where they can resume their walk back to the dorm. inside the train, they sat beside each other. he let her in first, picking the seat near the end so he sat near her making sure no one can bother her from that side. he has seen a lot of rude people using this chance to pick on school girls, and the majority are from the school. Placing his jacket on his lap then the bag, he leaned back as he stared around. not busy as usual, guess it is their lucky day to take a break from all the shoving and pushing. minako’s voice broke the silence, silver hues darted at the girl immediately. the full moon is closing by, so she was asking if her performance is improving. it is true that they had a rough start and few bumps along the way, but she had proven not once but on every occasion that she is up to whatever comes their way.

“You kidding, right? You’re more than capable for this position.Have some faith in your abilities, Arisato.” 

A light pat on her shoulder for encouragement. seriously, the red-head is faring way better than he did back in the day. all he remember is mitsuru yelling at him for diving head first into battles. to be honest, he still does that, but …less than ever? There was a light smile on her lips which made him smile back. time flew with the two talking about various things before they got up to walk to the dorm. 

The familiar road, the same shops on each side, the people, everything was peaceful. Minako hummed softly before murmuring something. The boxer stole a glance towards the petite girl. 

“Pardon?”

 “I’ll do my best to protect this peace.”

“Huh? Ah, yeah. We all will.”

There was seriousness in her face he never saw before. Something inside of him stung, it hurt but he does not recall getting hit on his torso area. Left hand reached for his chest, gripping lightly at his vest, akihiko was not sure of what he is feeling right now. Anger? no. Sadness? no … frustration…? perhaps…but is he frustrated all of a sudden? 

The petite girl glanced back at the boxer when she realized that he is not catching up with her pace anymore. Heels turned quickly to sand in front of the taller boy and question if he was feeling sick.

“Uh..n-no. I’m fine. Sorry, what were you saying?”

Minako puffed her cheeks at the boxer, but at their state, she couldn’t force him to speak about what bothers him, not yet. With that, she nodded quietly and the two walked back to the dorm. a bit awkward since they couldn’t converse anymore. Akihiko blamed himself for that because she was trying her best to keep a conversation rolling and he just blew it up. Reaching the dorm, he excused himself and climbed to his own room.     

𝙸𝙸𝙸.

Since that day, and Akihiko been avoiding the girl for a while. When he sees her, something inside just erupts like a volcano. He’s not mad at her mind you,but …a feeling he can’t put his finger on. 

Though, Minako is not the type to give without a proper excuse so she hunted him down until she managed to sneak up on him when he was about to enter the Beef Bowl shop. Surprised to see her, he was about to head back to the dorm when she did the same. Standing on the street, she kept a firm resolution to know why he was doing that and in the end, he gave up and asked her to come inside so they can talk. of course, she joked that he actually just wants to eat to which he nodded after a long lecture about the importance of a healthy meal. 

Inside the shop, he remained silent until they both finished eating. Placing the bowl on the counter, he gazed at it before taking a breath in and turning to face the girl. She was ready to hear his explanation. For the girl, she was ready to repent if she did something to offend Sanada but as he explained that he is frustrated that they are piling all the responsibility on her shoulders whether being a leader to the S.E.E.S. or  being a good student–balancing two lives at the same time, Minako’s head arched down, shoulders shaking. Akihiko’s eyes widen, was she having a stroke or something? He immediately reached his hands to her when he discovered that she was trying to hold her laughter. He was not sure how to respond to her laughter so he remained confused, waiting for her comment to his reason.

Taking deep breaths in, she calmed down wiping the tears from her eyes, she cleared her throat and fixed her posture. She knew he was being serious, but it because he was so serious when he said that she couldn’t keep her giggling anymore. 

 "Heheh..G-gomen, senpai but … that is not a burden at all. I promised that I will do my best so I be sure to keep that. Besides, you told me to have more faith in myself and in my abilities, no? Then why are you against me going to battle now? Senpai, you are not against girls doing –“

“N-no! That’s not what I meant! I… I’m just worried. I’d hate to see more people I care about get hurt because I lacked the power to support and protect them.”

 ” … Well, sadly for you this girl ain’t gonna give up! Senpai. I can’t leave you guys to fight alone when I have the power to help, too. So … will you be there for me?–um for all of us I mean.“

” …“– a pause, ” … You don’t have to ask that. I’ll have your back anytime. “

Now the atmosphere is a bit . .lighter than before. And he wonders why she is so popular around the school. Who wouldn’t like to chat with her? The two exchange smiles before akihiko calls for another round of beef bowls.

“Hm? What? Can’t you eat more? Nonsense! If you are claiming that you can fight then you ought to eat properly!”

 ”..nn…You bet I can! Bring it on!“

“Heh, that’s the spirit.”

nodding to her, the second round of the delicious juicy feast came and the two started digging in. Meanwhile, akihiko started giving her tips about what to eat and what sort of exercises she can do to have better stamina since, unlike him and mitsuru, the second years are still inexperienced with Tartarus atmosphere which causing them to get tired quickly. Taking everything he said to heart, she promised that she will follow them and if she needed an advice she knows who to ask.

“Alright then! Ready to jog back? wait..are you feeling okay?”

She gave him a thump up before going outside ahead of him. They had to stop a couple of times for minako to take a breath. Akihiko kept cheering her till the reached the dorm where she dropped on the couch. 

𝙸𝚅.

“Senpaaaaaaaaaai!!” 

The girl’s voice rang through the hallway. Akihiko blinked in surprise not knowing why would the girl make such ruckus just to call him. Becuase he is unaware of the little fan club of his, arisato was having a bit of trouble with the girls questioning whether she was dating Akihiko or she is just trying to fool the boy into trouble. It was her way to tell who is spying on them right now that she is not afraid of any meaningless threats or rumors.

“Uh…yeah? Is something wrong, Arisato?”

“Nope! Just wanna chat with you, senpai. i heard that there is going to be a tournament soon. Are you prepared, senpai?”

“What do you think? I’ve been waiting for that.”

“That’s our senpai! All of us will come cheer you on.”

“Yeah? that would be great. Though, you second years, aren’t you supposed to be worrying about your exams to worry about my club activity?”

“G-geh…  S-senpai… You don’t have to remind me.”

“Hehe, what, Iori is affecting you now?”

“Have no fear! I have everything under control! Anyway, are you free after school or are you going to train?”

“Nah. I’ll head to the dorm to just relax.”

“ … “

“Arisato?”

“Wanna walk around?”

“Walk? Sure.”

“Cool! I’ll see later!”

“Mhm.”

Nodding to her, he watched her skip to the stairs. He smirked before heading back to the club to check up on his team before heading to his classroom.

Waiting for the second year near the gate, she came running towards him. He nodded to her and the two walked to the station. The monorail today was busy, everyone wanted to get back to their homes after a long day at work or school. The two students had to stand since there were no empty seats. Akihiko grabbed to a train handle whilst Minako struggled to keep holding to one as they kept pushing her around. 

“*Sigh*…Switch with me. That side can be annoying.”

“O-oh. okay. sorry.”

Switching sides, he stood between her and the other passengers. The scenery outside is still amazing no matter how many time you look at it. Silver optics gazing outside the window when he was brought back by a light tug on his sleeve. Arching his head down to the hand, who? Ah, Arisato.

“Hm? Yeah?”

“If I can ask, what were you thinking? It seems a fun memory since you were grinning.”

Blinking twice. Was he … grinning? 

“Uh…well. The scenery is beautiful as ever, despite the years passing by. I’ve been watching this for three years and it keeps surprising me every time.”

Minako smiled as she watched him talk. It was the first time he actually spoke something unrelated to whatever he usually talks about. His memories.

The announcer called out for the passengers to the prepare themselves to exit at Iwatodia station. The two responding to that, approached the door though most of all people wanted to exit. As much there is some sort of order, everyone was grumpy and just wanted to go home already. Cluttering next to each other, it was hard to get out without bumping into other people. Groaning, he pulled the girl and forced his way out. Seriously, humans can be annoying.

“Sorry. I had to do that or you might have stayed in there for quite some time.” 

“N-no. it is alright. Thanks.”

The two slowly made their way out of the station and back to the familiar road. On the way, they met with Koro-chan. The three of them swung to the shrine, more like they followed after Koromaru. Minako and Koromaru stood near the altar offering prayers as Akihiko stood to watch them. The thought of praying to something to grant them luck, fame, or money did not appeal to him. If he wanted something, then he ought to work extra hard to get it. Koromaru whined, apparently he missed his old master so Minako crouched down to pet him and reassure him that they are here for him. Akihiko walked towards them and squatted as well to pat the white canine. They enjoyed their time before walking with the shiba inu to the dorm. Koromaru was happy that he got to walk with them both. dashing ahead of them one time and returning to their side to bark cheerfully at them.

“He’s excited, isn’t he?”

“Yep! Hehe. I’m glad he is feeling better.”

“Yeah. W-whoa! Koromaru!! Stop pushing me! We’ll get there soon jeez… Arisato, we should move faster before he drags us back.”

Minako fell silent. Her objective was for them to walk around, but with Koromaru pushing them to get back, she couldn’t remind the boxer of that.

“ …yes.”

Arriving at the dorm, Akihiko opened the door so Koromaru can enter and waited for Minako to walk in but she was spacing out. An eyebrow rose, he called her.

“Hey. You’re not gonna enter?”

“!!  . . Oh. Yeah. I will.”

Late that night, Akihiko remembered that he promised the vermilion leader to walk with her in town. They were sidetracked when they met  with Koromaru. He would make it up for her soon. 

𝚅.

Days later, Akihiko never forgot that he still owe her a walk around the town. Even if she goes out with her friends, minako is still new to this area and he could provide an insight to help her get around Iwatodia. This time, he waited for her until she went down the stairs and called for her.

“Arisato, are you free after classes?”

“Ah, senpai. Yes?”

“Great. I’ll see you then.”

“Senpa--  eh?”

Not waiting to explain for her, he turned and walked away from her. It only made her worry that she might have done something. He could add some details for like why he’s asking her out? Problematic kid. 

As promised, he was waiting for her near the exit. Minako hesitated to ask why for but managed to summon her courage and ask. knowing why can help her think of a way to solve the problem, no?

“Uhm! Senpai. Why are we..um...walking back together?”

“Hm? Isn't obvious? We're gonna walk around town like i promised."

Arisato's crimson hues widened momentarily before giggling. So he did remember that. Akihiko's eyebrow rose but sighed inwardly. good. if she is smiling then she is not mad at him.

Reaching the mall, the two walked around, visiting every shop. He gave her tips on avoiding certain areas at certain times--as they might be crowded with people and whatnot. 

Stopping by an ice cream stall, they bought some and sat on a bench to eat. Chatting for a bit, a muffled crying disturbed them. On their feet, the two looked around for the source to find a little boy sitting down hiding his face between his legs and crying. Hurriedly, the rushed to his side. Minako gently patted his head. The boy sniffled and looked up at her. She then asked him if he was okay and he replied that he lost his mother. Akihiko looked around for the said mother--any woman who seems freaked out and frantically looking is the one, but no one of that description is around. Perhaps she did not notice his disappearance? 

Either way, they can't leave him be so Minako kindly offered her hand for the boy to get up so they can all go to the police station to find his parents, but the boy refuses her.

      "my mommy said to never talk to strangers or..or go with them...*sobs*"

"B-but...uhm...it is true we are strangers but neechan and niichan are not nasty strangers--we are the good kind hehe."

" . . . Arisato. .you are making it worse."

"Sssh! let me handle this."

" . . . fine."

"So, my name is Minako and he is my senpai a boxing champ! Akihiko Sanada. He kicks the bad guys! See, he wears red! Red is the color of hero!"

"*splutter* Arisato!? What are--"

"SSSSHHHH"

" . . . nnn...." (Please don't let this backfire on us.)

       "S-so . . he is . . .a hero? Niichan, are you a hero?"

" . . . ."

"SENpai."

" . . . ." --puase. " . . . kind...of?"

  " . . . . that is... SO COOL! DO YOU JUMP AND KICK AND PUNCH AND--AND DO ALL THE COOL STUFF?"

"Pretty much."

"He never lost before, that's why he is the captain of the boxing club!"

    "REALLY? . . wow."

Cue for the boy to get and glue himself closer to Akihiko. He's not bad around children, but this was all of sudden. the turn of events took him off guard. That minako.... Smiling to the boy, he patted his head and squated down.

"You can be a hero if you want, too."

   "Me . . a hero?"

"Yep. and to be a hero, would you guide us to the police station? We gotta find your mom."

   "The police ...station..... I . . .I don't knowwhereitis..*sobs*"

"It's alright. Can I take over? We're partners, no?"

   " . . okay."

"Sanada brigade here we go!!"

"Arisato, please lower your voice."

"But it is fun, senpai hehehe."

"You're having fun more than you should."

"Not every day I could be the hero sidekick."

" . . . who said you ar--..you know. never mind. I won't argue about this."

"Hehehe. I won. See, uh..wait, we did not hear your name."

   "It's Kaito."

"Kai-kun then! Trust us okay?"

  "Mhmm!! I trust neechan and niisan!"

". . . . did he just... senpai is getting the love."

"Pft--It's not my fault, though."

"Yeah yeah. *mumbles* even though i am the one who called him *sniffles*"

  "Neechan?"

"Leave her be. She'll be better. Now, shall we go?"

  "Yeah!"

The trio walked towards the mall where the police station is. Each of them holding Kaito's hands. Hopefully, officer Kurosawa can help them with finding the boy's parents before nightfall. Apparently, Kaito was tired to walk because he was previously playing the children before he finds himself alone. 

"He's tired..."

Minako pointed out. The boxer stopped and leaned down to the boy.

"Do you like piggyback rides?"

  " . . . mmm...yea..daddy does that a lot."

"Good. then come on. up up we go."

Akihiko held the boy and placed him over his shoulders. Well, not a piggy back ride but...yeah. 

"Ready?"

  "Wooow! That's high!! So cool!!!"

"Guess he is heh."

"Here we go."

Soon, they reached the station, filed a report and soon after the parents came in to pick their child. the young parents thanked the teens for their kind effort. Kaito ran back to Akihiko giving him a hug before giving one to minako and returned to his parents. 

Akihiko stood there a bit stiff of what had happened. At least he is safe, right Miki? Minako poked his arm to tell him that they should probably hurry back to the dorm or mitsuru will be cross with them.

" . . . Arisato. Thanks for today."

"Yeah--huh? Me? But . . i did nothing. Senpai the one who--"

"No. really. thank you. If I was alone I might not have been able to persuade him on my own."

Arms slide behind her petite figure, she flashed a smile to him.

"Niisan got all the credit in the end, so lil ol'me got nothing ehehe. Senpai, I am sure even if I was not there, you could have made him follow you--that's natural after all."

"Huh...? What is natural?"

"Nothing~Come on! I'll race you to the dorm! The loser is mitsuru-san's execution puppet!"