Academy's Life 2/2

A few days have passed since Cid's confession to Alexia and nothing eventful happened since then. To Subaru at least. 

The class finished and Subaru with Cid headed to the cafeteria with plates of food in their hands, Subaru couldn't help but overhear the murmurs among the students who were passing by. 

"Wait, THAT Kageno? There is no way…"

"I thought it was other Kageno sibling…"

"But he is so average, what did she find in him?"

Subaru raised an eyebrow as he listened to the whispers that surrounded them, glancing sideways at Cid, who seemed to be trying to shrink into himself with every passing word. Cid was seen very annoyed by the sudden attention of the people. 

"Doesn't it get tiring?" Subaru asked, half-amused. He took a bite of his food, watching Cid's reaction closely.

"It's infuriating!" Cid retorted. "This is exactly what I was trying to avoid!"

Subaru chuckled, shaking his head. "You really brought this upon yourself, you know. I mean, just think about it: you confessed to a princess! It's kind of a big deal." He gestured dramatically, his chopsticks swirling in the air. 

"Yeah, yeah, rub it in my face, why don't you?" Cid annoyingly signed. 

"So, do you have a plan to deal with all of this?" Subaru asked, curiosity piqued. 

"I am glad you asked." Cid put a hand in his pocket and pulled out a crumpled piece of paper, smoothing it out on the table, his brow furrowed in concentration. "I've got a strategy—Operation "Just-Dump-Me-Already!"

Subaru raised an eyebrow, leaning in closer to inspect the crumpled paper. "Wait, is that really what you named it?"

"It's a solid plan." Cid insisted, his eyes flashing with determination and conviction. 

The paper was written in Japanese and consisted of a detailed plan and step-by-step on how to make Alexia fall out of love with him and break up with him. 

Subaru's eyes widened as he scanned the paper, his jaw dropping in amusement. "You're kidding me, right? This is a ridiculously detailed plan to make Alexia break up with you?"

"I worked on this plan all these days and now I am ready to act." Cid replied, his expressions turned stubborn. 

Subaru took a closer look at his paper and read some of his steps. 

Act nonchalant and disinterested… 

Purposefully spill a drink or food on her… 

Speak in monotone… 

Walk away mid-conversation… 

Only respond with one-word answers… 

Become a "Yes Man"... 

Always be late… 

Subaru's eyes scanned the paper, and he could not help but laugh at the absurdity of Cid's plan. He had to admit, it was creative and showed how determined Cid was to make the situation work to his advantage.

"Well, I suppose it's impressive that you came up with such a... unique plan," Subaru said, trying to keep a straight face.

Cid smirked, a glint of mischief in his eyes. "I knew you'd see the brilliance in it. Sure, it might seem ridiculous to you, but it's the perfect solution."

"I'll be so unbearable that she'll have no choice but to dump me."

"Yeah, sure man." Subaru replied, shaking his head as he took another bite of his food.

Soon enough, Cid's background friends, Skel and Po joined them at the table, each balancing plates piled high with food, sitting opposite next to them.

"Oh man, isn't this weird?" Skel said as he settled into his seat, eyeing Cid.

"This is definitely odd." Po added.

"To be brutally honest, you are nowhere worthy of being in a relationship with a princess," Skel said.

"If she was willing to take you, Cid, maybe I should have give it a shot and confess to her." Po said with a cheeky grin.

"Yeah, sure, Po. I can totally see you dating a princess," Subaru interjected with an exaggerated roll of his eyes.

"I think she is just using me." Cid dramatically sighed.

"Who cares, It's still a chance most guys would kill for! Just enjoy these sweet moments."

"What do I even do in such situation?" 

"Oh! It's simple!" Skel replied.

"You just have to kiss her!" Po formed a kissy face and dramatically swooned, causing Subaru to snicker.

"Do you mind if I sit here with you?" A female voice interrupted them. Skel and Po turned their attention just to see Alexia standing there.

"P-p-p-p-princess Alexia! G-go ahead!" Skel stuttered, his eyes widening in disbelief.

"Y-yeah! H-have a seat!" Po shrinked into his seat.

"Uh, hey there, princess! Total pleasure to have you join us, right?" Subaru couldn't help but glance at Cid.

Cid didn't react as he continued to pick at his food, pretending he hadn't even heard her. Alexia took a seat between Cid and Subaru , her presence instantly changing the atmosphere at the table. The rest of the boys were transfixed, their mouths agape, while Subaru exchanged a glance with Cid.

In the next moment, her personal maid set out her dishes in front of her. All of the dishes showcasing a variety of gourmet foods—far more extravagant than the casual cafeteria menu.

"I never manage to finish this-"

"Then I'll help you!" Cid interrupted as he grabbed chopsticks and began to dig into the meal, completely ignoring the terrified expressions from Skel and Po. Meanwhile Alexia expression was indifferent as she watched Cid devouring her food.

Subaru watched the scene unfold with a mix of amusement and disbelief. He tried to keep a straight face, suppressing a smile.

"Wow, this is actually pretty good!" Cid exclaimed as he continued shoveling food into his mouth, trying to keep his expression casual.

"Cid, don't talk with your mouth full," Subaru added, though his tone was more teasing than serious.

"B-wbhat?" Cid mumbled his cheeks stuffed with food, turning his attention to Subaru, completely ignoring Alexia "You want some as well?" He said as he passed a piece of sushi to Subaru

"Uh, thanks, I think I'll pass," Subaru replied, shaking his head. "I don't think Princess Alexia would particularly appreciate you treating her food like a buffet."

Despite Cid's intentions, Alexia didn't seem to mind, she maintained her cool demeanor, watching Cid with an amused yet slightly raised eyebrow. "You know, Cid," She said, with a dangerous glint in her eyes. "I heard you are studying Royal Bushin Fencing for your swordsmanship education?"

"I thought we could get a class together."

Cid paused mid-bite, as he processed Alexia's words, his eyes twitching briefly. "I am in the lowest section, that's impossible-"

"That is fine" Alexia interrupted, a smile creeping on her face as she leaned closer. "They opened up a spot in Section One. I'll make sure that you get in."

"I'll pass-"

"This is royal order."

"Yes, ma'am" Cid replied, his tone laced with annoyance as he set down his chopsticks. 

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"Gather around students! We have a new member joining us today!" The instructor of the Expert Class, Zenon Griffey announced, stepping forward as students attention shifted to the second figure standing beside him.

"I am Cid Kageno, and I'm looking forward to learning alongside you all." Cid bowed his head.

The training yard was filled with students as they whispered among themselves.

"Is that really Cid Kageno?" one student whispered incredulously. 

"Of course it is. I saw him today in the cafeteria," another replied, skepticism fading to intrigue. 

"Is as he strong as his other two siblings?"

Cid could feel the weight of their gazes on him, and he clenched his jaw, forcing his lips into a tight smile. He was in deep water. 

"As you know, The Royal Bushin Fencing is an original style, derived from traditional bushin school. Thanks to the First Princess Iris Midgar, we managed to rival traditional bushin. I expect nothing less than your absolute best." Lord Lapis, the second instructor, stepped in, his voice booming with authority.

"Now please, pair up with your practice partners! We'll begin with some warm-up drills before we progress to techniques." Zenon instructed, glaring at the students to see them moving, shuffling into pairs.

Subaru watched as Cid and Alexia paired up for their warm-up drills. Alexia was watching Cid closely as he was stretching, her eyes scrutinizing every movement he made. After a few moments, she decided to copy his stretches. 

Meanwhile Subaru was paired up with a random student. Subaru proceeded with his usual radio calisthenics performing the stretches and warm-ups.

After a while, students got into their fighting stance. Subaru adjusted his stance, preparing to spar with his partner, while casting another look at Cid and Alexia. To his surprise, Cid was more composed than he had expected. He had adopted a serious expression.

Instructor Lapis signaled for them to being their sparring session and everyone starts moving, clashing swords and exchanging techniques. Subaru's eyes darted between his sparring partner and Cid, who was exchanging blows with Alexia. 

As a core of the swordsmanship, Subaru was learning the most basic one, often referred as "mediocre" style. There was not any particular reason for this, Cid told him it was the most basic and adaptable one. Seven Shades created their own style drawing from a variety of techniques rather than specializing in one. Cid had always believed it was better to adapt and evolve rather than be stuck in one rigid form.

Subaru parried a strike from his partner, deflecting the blade to the side and quickly countering with his own thrust, which his opponent has blocked with relative ease. Subaru could not help but steal glances over Cid and Alexia spar. They were moving at sluggish pace compared to others, it would seem like Alexia trying to match Cid's pace, however it was quite the opposite. Alexia was at her own pace meanwhile Cid was being forced to match hers. Cid could tell that she handles her sword very well, grasping the foundation of it. Her swordplay is polished and refined, mastered.

With one final blow exchange, Cid and Alexia locked their blades.

"Your swordplay isn't bad," Alexia noted.

"Thanks."

"But I don't like it. It is like watching myself fight. Let's stop here for today."

She turned her attention to the corner of the yard, where Subaru and his sparring partner were engaged in their own spar. Subaru sidestepped a blade swing from his partner, quickly countering with a vertical slash that caught his opponent by surprise and sent them stumbling back. Seeing the opportunity, Subaru pushed forward with a series of offensive attacks that forced his partner on the defensive.

His opponent starts panicking and making blunders, trying to block Subaru's attacks. His attacks were growing faster and more precise, leaving no room for counterattack. He had trained hard and was seeing the fruits of it. Just then, Subaru's partner lost their footing and fell to the ground, giving Subaru the opportunity to point his sword toward them in victory. "Gotcha!" he exclaimed with a triumphant grin. 

Alexia's eyes widened as she observed Subaru's swordplay. It did not have any special techniques. The stance, the footing and his movements. It was not like she has seen before from any other popular sword styles-everything about his swordplay was basic, however it was polished and shaped to almost ideal. The way he executed each strike and block with precision and confidence made it look effortless. 

The sword style that was considered as the most basic one. The sword style because of she was given a title of "Fencing Ordinaire" by those, who were comparing to her sister Iris Midgar. The sword style whish she had always believed to be inferior to her sister's style. Yet here was Subaru, who has honed its basic techniques into something surprisingly effective. That style, it was-

"Mediocre?" she muttered under her breath, almost disbelieving.

As the training session wrapped up, Subaru finished gathering his belongings and left the training yard, leaving Cid and Alexia alone.

"Another end of the day, another step forward." he muttered to himself as he made his way through the empty academy halls, replaying today's events in his mind. It seems like Cid's plan to get Alexia to dump him is already in motion, but it's not going as smoothly as he thought it would. Despite his best efforts to be annoying and disinterested, Alexia doesn't seem to be bothered by his behavior.

On his way to the main entrance, he spotted a familiar face-Iris Midgar, the First Princess of the Midgar Kingdom. Subaru stood frozen, remembering the promise he made. A friendly spar with a First Princess. He was unsure whether to approach her or not, however Iris caught his eye and approached him, offering a welcoming smile.

"Subaru, It's good to see you again. How is your academy life going?"

"Hey, Iris! It's... uh, going pretty well, I guess? Just your typical boring school life, you know—studying, training, and trying not to embarrass myself in front of my classmates."

 "I know the feeling. Sometimes it feels like there's just too much pressure to be perfect all the time. But you seem to be holding up well."

"Yeah, right." Subaru replied, scratching the back of his head. "And what about you? Must be tough being the First Princess, right? I mean, everyone expects you to be this perfect warrior, like a living emblem of victory and all that."

Iris's expression turned serious, her eyes sparkling with determination. "Yes, it is my duty to protect my kingdom and my people. I push through, for my people. And for my sister." 

"Alexia?" Subaru asked, raising an eyebrow. "I mean, I can kind of see how that could get under your skin a bit," he continued, choosing his words carefully. "You both seem to have your own styles, strengths, and all that."

"She is brilliant in her own right, and I admire her tenacity. But I do wish she would take it a bit easier on herself. She's always comparing herself to me, and I just want her to know she doesn't have to carry that burden. We each have our paths to forge, after all." Iris said, a gentle smile returning to her face as she spoke about her sister.

Subaru nodded slowly, taking in Iris's words. He could sense the genuine care she had for her sister, even if it was tinged with a hint of frustration. "Sounds like you two have a complicated relationship," he remarked.

"I feel like she is slowly distancing herself from me. Like she has to prove something. It hurts, to be honest." Iris sighed, her gaze drifting to the ground as if searching for an answer hidden in the cobblestones beneath her feet. "I just... I want her to be happy."

"If Alexia's trying to prove something, maybe what she really needs is for you to show her that you're her ally—not her competition. Sometimes, the bond between siblings can become an unintentional battleground. Instead, make it your shared journey. Maybe form little moments where you both are just... you, without any titles, expectations, or comparisons. Just 'Iris' and 'Alexia.'" Subaru paused, glancing at Iris, who was absorbing his words with a thoughtful expression.

"I may not have the most extensive experience when it comes to sibling relationships—heck, my family's dynamics are complicated enough as they are—but I do know that sometimes people just need to know that they have someone in their corner who believes in them, no matter what." His voice softened, each word in sincerity.

Iris listened intently, her gaze unwavering as Subaru spoke. He could see the flicker of realization in her eyes.

"That's… insightful," she finally replied, a hint of admiration creeping into her voice, she continued. "You're right. I need to remind her that she doesn't have to shoulder everything alone. I need to find ways to show her that we're on the same team."

Subaru scratched the back of his head, a bit taken aback by Iris's earnestness. "Well, you know, I just call it as I see it," he said with a sheepish grin. "Not that I'd ever want to step foot in royal drama—no thanks!"

Iris chuckled lightly, her mood visibly brightening. "You have a unique way of viewing things. Perhaps I should thank you for your unexpected wisdom, Subaru." 

"Oh, it's nothing really," he replied, waving a hand dismissively.

"Still, I appreciate it. Speaking of which, remember about the friendly sparring we talked about?" Iris said.

Subaru felt a mix of anticipation and dread at the prospect of sparring with someone of Iris's caliber, but he managed a grin. "Being beated up by a princess was not on my to-do list today, but I supposed I can't refuse now, can I?"

"Let us meet at the training yard in a few minutes

Subaru nodded. "Sure, I'll be there!" He flashed a thumbs-up

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Subaru and Iris were both standing in the training yard, facing one another with wooden swords in their hands. The students were long gone, leaving just the two of them and the afternoon sunlight illuminating the yard. Subaru adjusted his grip on the wooden sword, feeling the weight of it in his hands. Iris stood before him, radiating confidence and intensity.

"Alright, Iris. Just to clarify—this is supposed to be a friendly spar, right? No lethal moves or secret royal techniques,"

Iris chuckled softly. "Of course, Subaru. Just a friendly spar. No need to fear—I'll be gentle." 

"Oh great, 'gentle' coming from the First Princess sounds a bit ominous," Subaru half-joked.

"Don't worry, I will go easy on you... For a few minutes." Iris added as she redied herself, getting into offensive stance.

"Gee, thanks," Subaru said, letting out a nervous laugh as he steadied himself into an defensive stance. "I appreciate your mercy. I think."

Iris's eyes slightly widened as she noticed Subaru's stance. It reminded her of something or rather someone.

"Is something wrong?" Subaru asked.

Iris shook her head. "No, nothing at all," she replied. "I am ready whenever you are."

With the slight nod, the spar has finally began, Iris immediatly went into offensive mode, launching herself forward wtih a surprising speed. Subaru barely managed to dodge the first strike, stepping to the side just in time as her wooden sword sliced the air where he had been standing moments before.

"So you weren't joking about going easyon me!" Subaru exclaimed, hastily regaining his composure. He quickly repositioned himself, taking a defensive stance again as Iris closed in on him, eyes sharp and focused.

"I told you I would be gentle for just a few minutes." Iris said, as she thrusted her sword forward which was blocked by Subaru.

Subaru's heart raced as he desperately tried to think of a counterattack. "Is this really what you call gentle?!"

Subaru found himself on the defensive, dodging and blocking as best he could, but it was clear he was outmatched. "Okay, point taken! I'll give you a bit more effort!" he grunted, trying to regain control of the spar. 

With a determined exhale, he refocused, narrowing his eyes. He recalled Cid's emphasis on adaptability and ingenuity. Subaru shifted his stance, trying to anticipate Iris's movements instead of merely reacting to them.

Iris lunged again, her sword sweeping through the air. Subaru ducked low, avoiding the strike, but his momentum carried him forward slightly. He quickly spun around to face Iris, trying to catch her off guard with a thrust of his own. To his surprise, Iris was already in position, deflecting his attack effortlessly.

With a flick of her wrist, Iris spun her wooden sword and went for a low sweep aimed at Subaru's legs. Reacting instinctively, he leaped backward, narrowly avoiding the strike, which made him stumble slightly.

Subaru straightened up, shaking off the minor stumble as Iris advanced with little hesitation. "Okay, this isn't exactly what I had in mind when I agreed to this spar!" Subaru exclaimed, panting a little as he regained his footing.

"You seem to be handling yourself decently!" she exclaimed, before continuing her offensive with a series of quick strikes that tested Subaru's reflexes. Subaru grunted as he brought his wooden sword up to block another blow from Iris, struggling to keep pace with her relentless advance.

With a quick roll Subaru managed to create distance between himself and Iris, catching his breath as he assessed the situation. Iris, meanwhile, paused, a slightly impressed look crossing her face as she regarded Subaru. "I must admit, you're holding up better than I expected." She lowered her sword for a moment, allowing Subaru to catch a breath.

"Thanks, I guess? I'm just trying not to get smashed into the ground over here," Subaru replied, wiping sweat from his brow with the back of his hand. Then he decided to switch the sides and went to offensive. With renewed determination, Subaru advanced towards her. Iris, slightly surprised by his sudden burst of courage, quickly shifted her stance, deflecting his strikes while countering with her own.

Their swords clashed again, each strike echoing through the empty training yard. Subaru feigned a thrust to the right, hoping to get her to commit to a block in that direction. As expected, Iris went to intercept his attack, but Subaru suddenly switched directions, bringing his sword down with all the force he could muster. Iris was quick to react, raising her sword to parry Subaru's blow, but the force of his strike pushed her back a step. Subaru felt a rush of exhilaration; he had made her move. Encouraged by that small victory, Subaru pressed forward, shifting his weight into each strike.

Iris, regaining her balance, focused on the battle, her expression turning serious. "Very well, It's time I take this seriously."

"Eh?" The only thing Subaru could muster before Iris exploded into a series of movements, her strikes escalating in speed and intensity. Subaru's previous momentum seemed to evaporate as he found himself back on the defensive

"Okay, okay! Maybe 'gentle' means something different in princess terms!" Subaru exclaimed, barely managing to block one of her strikes, which sent a shiver down his spine.

"I did warn you!" Subaru's instincts kicked in as he ducked another swift swipe from her sword, narrowly avoiding the impact that would have sent him tumbling to the ground. He didn't have the luxury of time to think; he needed to act. With another swift movement, he rolled backwards again, creating distance between them. He grabbed a handful amount of sand in his free hand as he steadied himself. Subaru narrowed his eyes, quickly preparing for his next move. He could see the determination burning in Iris's eyes, her wooden sword poised for another assault. 

He hurled the sand straight into the air between them, creating a fog which obscured his movements. Subaru seized the opportunity to sprint towards Iris, hoping to catch her off guard. The sand cloud momentarily distracted her, giving him the critical time he needed to close the distance.

"Subaru's Sandstorm Technique!" he declared, but as Iris swept the sand away with a swift movement of her sword, his courageous attack was met with raised eyebrow rather than alarm. The dust settled, revealing Subaru mid-lunge, and for a brief moment, he felt the weight of her gaze grounded in disbelief.

"Is that really your ultimate technique?" Iris chuckled, catching his blade with a sharp block, the sound echoing across the yard. 

"Hey, it was worth a shot!" Subaru defended.

However, Iris pressed forward. She unleashed a series of calculated strikes, leaving barely enough time for Subaru to catch his breath or contemplate another plan. And with the last blow, Iris disarmed him, sending his wooden sword clattering to the ground. The sound echoed in the quiet yard.

Subaru stood there, momentarily stunned, staring at the wooden sword that had fallen in front of him. He looked up at Iris, who returned his gaze with a playful smirk, her wooden sword held at the ready. 

"Looks like I win," she said, her tone light and teasing, a contrast to the intensity of their sparring moments ago.

"Yeah, well, you did warn me," Subaru admitted, forcing a chuckle to mask his embarrassment. "Guess I should've expected that from the First Princess. You are kinda known for your skills."

"You did well, Subaru. Honestly, you held your ground longer than many would against me. I admire your spirit."

"Thanks," Subaru replied, rubbing the back of his neck. "Still, I definitely won't challenge you again anytime soon," he added with a nervous laugh. "Just a friendly reminder not to mess with royalty!"

Iris shaking her head. "Don't let that dissuade you. With more practice, you could hold your own, I see potential in you." She stepped forward offering him her hand, a gesture of respect as Subaru shook it.

"Thanks again for not completely wiping the floor with me," Subaru said.

Iris smiled warmly. "And thank you for your insight earlier."

"Well, I guess see you around?" He offered her a goodbye.

"Indeed, we should spar again sometime." Iris said as she began to walk away, leaving Subaru alone in the empty and quiet training yard.

─────────────────

"Ah, what a wild day it is…" Subaru was passing by the open place, next to the academy building. He sighed, recounting the events what happened today.

"That Cid's confession turned a disaster for him..."

"Woof!"

"And his grand plan to make Alexia break up with him..."

"Woof!"

"And now Cid found himself in Section One..."

"Woof!"

"And my previous encounter with Iris..."

"Woof!"

"Which was followed by a friendly spar..."

"Woof!"

"In which I got beated- Alright, what the hell is going on?!" Subaru halted his steps, feeling a sudden jolt of confusion as he turned to face the source of the barking.

"Since when we have dogs in the Academy? Did it get here by accident or someone brought it?"

"Woof!"

"It sounds like an adult dog?"

"Woof!"

"No, It sounds way more human-like. Who is that?" As Subaru turned around the corner, he saw a rather spectacular sight. 

Cid, on his fours was barking and catching golden flying coins, which were thrown by no one, but Alexia herself.

Subaru's eyes widened in disbelief as he watched the scene unfold in front of him. Cid Kageno was on all fours, barking excitedly as golden coins rained down from Alexia's hand. It was absurdly comical, and Subaru struggled to keep his laughter in check.

"What the heck is going on here?" Subaru muttered under his breath, rubbing his eyes to make sure he wasn't dreaming. 

"Woof!" Cid barked again as he caught another coin in his mouth, holding it triumphantly before putting in in his pocket.

"Good boy, Pooch! Now fetch!" Alexia praised, stifling a giggle as she tossed another gold coin in the air. Cid lunged for it eagerly, his face shifting between concentration and pure joy as he tried to catch the fluttering coin mid-air. 

It took a few moments for Subaru to process the sight in front of him, before turning around and walking away.

"Just when I thought the day couldn't get any crazier..."