53 Reverse Kabe-Don

--- Alpha ---

Shortly after, an intriguing rumor circulated within the academy.

The Princess, Alexia Midgar, supposedly had a lover.

This rumor surfaced a few days after the 'incident' in the Gymnasium started gaining attention.

Despite Fray Von Garoff princess-carrying her to the Infirmary, not everyone was convinced that there was truly something romantic between them.

It was plausible that Fray Von Garoff acted out of sympathy and a remaining trace of humanity, leading many to dismiss the rumors as exaggerations.

However, to dispel any doubts, the duo soon began displaying behaviors characteristic of a genuine couple.

Wherever one of them went, the other would inevitably follow — eating together in the Cafeteria, training side by side in the Gymnasium, and lingering together after Academy lessons.

Their closeness was undeniable, prompting people to draw a certain conclusion.

Yet, it all seemed too flawless, too perfect.

'That confirms Beta's suspicions.'

Given the possibility of an alliance between Shadow-sama and Fray Von Garoff, we've opted to refrain from interference until the Cult of Diablos reveals themselves.

It would be a disservice to Shadow-sama to disrupt his plans out of fear of the unknown.

'Still, I would like to speak with him myself'

Initially, I contemplated assigning another member of the Seven Shadows to oversee this mission. However, given the unexpected appearance of this unknown factor at such a crucial juncture, I, Alpha, find myself compelled to handle this task personally.

The first order of business will be to ascertain whether he is merely an observer content with minimal involvement, or if he harbors intentions to dismantle the Cult of Diablos.

Should it be the latter scenario, cooperation becomes a viable option, given our shared objectives.

However, I shall reserve my judgments until our encounter unfolds.

--- Akira ---

So, I've got myself a 'girlfriend' for now.

You might have just tried to piece together how it all unfolded from the events thus far.

I presented my proposal to Alexia. It seemed like a mutually beneficial arrangement. After some consideration, she agreed. Turns out, she had her own reasons for disliking Zenon Griffey; she saw him as too flawless, which in her eyes, hinted at a hidden agenda.

...I'm sorry to tell you that's not what happened.

---

"Fray Von Garoff, Become my man"

...

I felt the wall against my back, and her hands, assertive but not forceful, pressed against it on either side of me.

With no choice but meet her gaze, her intense red eyes locked onto mine.

As the onlookers blushed with speculative curiosity, I couldn't help but pay attention to subtle details thanks to my Skills—the silver strands of her hair gracefully tumbling down her shoulders, the way her breath mingled with mine, the subtle make up that accentuated her beauty...

I couldn't deny I wasn't affected. I am still a man, after all.

But, I refused to let her take the lead.

This deal is favorable for her, not for me. She does not know I have the System's mission to complete, after all.

As our eyes locked, questions lingered unspoken between us. I wanted to ask why she chose this particular moment, this crowded hallway, to make such a bold declaration.

"And why should I, Princess?"

I whispered back, without backing down as I smiled.

"You want something from me, I know that because many people have looked at me with those eyes," she began, her tone unwavering. "But, you are different. You are not greedy for what any other noble might want. You are not lusting after me, either..." 

As she spoke, Alexia reached up, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear with a determined flick of her wrist...

"Since you were able to figure out what many instructors could not in a glance, I'm sure you can also tell me how to get stronger. That's why I want you to become mine. In exchange, I'll do whatever you want."

Seems she's got more brains than I gave her credit for. Maybe her judgment was just skewed because of her sister's involvement.

Smart move not laying all her cards on the table; keeping some motives hidden is the first step in a negotiation. Crafty.

But, sadly for you, I am aware of your circumstances.

"I could get what I need from your sister in the same manner, Princess. There is nothing binding me to choose you over her."

That's just the plain truth. Marrying Iris Midgar might be a hassle, but it's not out of the realm of possibility.

What intrigued me more was her reaction. She's clearly got an inferiority complex, and I need to gauge if that could ever make her vulnerable to the Cult's influence...

My words seemed to rattle her a bit, but she held her ground.

Instead, she did something that made many onlookers avert their eyes in embarrassment.

She cupped my face with her hands.

"...Choose me. I can guarantee you won't regret it."

Why is she so desperate? It doesn't make sense. Is the System somehow...?

Now I had to get to the bottom of this.

"I'm sure you could just ask some prominent instructor to teach you after explaining the issue. Why must it be me, Princess Alexia?"

She anticipated my question, and her eyes sparkled with determination.

"Because you're the only person who has ever acknowledged my sword, who has seen my potential. You saw through what no one else could."

Is she too caught up on the details to see the bigger picture?

It seems her thirst for recognition blinds her to the reality of the situation.

The moment I acknowledged her, she became overly ecstatic... That's not healthy.

"You know your feelings stem from me being the first to notice your flaws, right? It would have been the same no matter who it was. Are you sure you want to rush into this despite knowing that?"

I didn't want her to merely want me because I can tell her a few words of recognition once or twice.

It'd be way too easy to manipulate her if that were the case.

"Throughout my life, I've followed my instincts, and they've never let me down. It might sound foolish, but I choose to trust my senses. Moreover, it's not just about that. I've noticed you never put on a facade in front of me. You have flaws, plenty of them, and that's what makes you real. Fray Von Garoff, I'll say it as many times as it takes until you understand. Be mine. Choose me."

Trusting your instincts has led you to foolishly emulate your sister's sword style, Princess. I'd love to tell you it's not wise to rely solely on your instincts, but I kept my silence.

I playfully brushed my finger against her lips, a faint smile tugging at the corners of my mouth. It's my way of pushing back, refusing to remain passive any longer.

Never underestimate my Talents.

"Let me mull it over, Princess. This isn't the best place for such discussions with too many eyes and ears. For now, we can play the part of lovers to throw off any suspicions. We'll delve into the details later. And a little advice for the future—be careful with your words around a man. Acting like this and using such ambiguous words might give him the wrong idea."

'I can't make a decision without weighing all my options first,' I calmly stated in my mind, noting the slight blush tinting her cheeks in response. It seemed my approach had struck a chord.

Taking the initiative, I wrapped my arm around her waist, guiding her away from the curious onlookers. It was time to start playing the part of a couple in earnest.

The crowd's gaze was too intense to ignore, and discussing such matters in front of everyone wasn't an option.

---

Author's Note:

Stand proud, Alexia Midgar.

You are strong.

but nah, I'd win 

-Akira Bashira, Average Japanese Person.

Anyway, since this chapter has multiple POVs, I used --- X --- to make it clear. I hope that does not make it more confusing and instead helps the average reader!

You might have noticed I really tried my best to describe many things about Alexia as Akira acknowledged her. If you were wondering why I'm doing this, it's because I am officially training in how to write romance.

I want to ask you:

How did it feel? Were my descriptions too much, not enough, or maybe you just felt they were overwhelming? Or in the contrary, you'd like if I spent more time describing her?

Please, if you want to help me, do share your opinion. I'll try to follow your advice to better myself!

This is more of a trial chapter than anything else, so please be completely honest.

Also, from the next chapter, we'll go further with the plot and the Cult of Diablos will finally show themselves, so that I can portray some supernatural fight. I followed the advice of someone who told me my fights were a little bit lacking with details, so I'll see how this one goes and if there's anything else any of you may notice down the line. Thank you for the support!