Category: Indescribable Bubbles

Chapter 15: Whispers of Chaos

“Buzz… buzz… buzz…”

“Gurgle… gurgle… gurgle…”

“Ugh…” Unable to hold it back any longer, Kyoko leaned against the bathroom stall, retching violently.

She hadn’t eaten much in the past few days, so all that came up was watery bile.

“So noisy…” A cacophony of buzzing filled her ears, accompanied by a wave of dizziness. Kyoko stared at her reflection in the mirror, her eyes glazed over. Despite her lack of appetite, her cheeks were flushed, her complexion healthy.

“What’s… what’s happening to me?”

The buzzing had started about three days ago. Or rather, she had started hearing strange, incomprehensible sounds.

“Gurgle… gurgle…”

“G! G!”

“￥……￥＃￥……＆……＆（……＆”

Her eyes ached, her stomach felt like it was filled with lead, her temples throbbed, and a metallic taste filled her mouth.

“So hot… I feel so sick…”

Kyoko curled up on the bathroom floor, her body wracked with discomfort.

“Am I… am I dying?”

‘Hee hee hee…’

“Who’s there?”

‘Whoosh… whoosh…’

“Stop talking in my head!”

‘Kyoko… poor, pitiful Kyoko…’ A voice whispered from the depths of the Chaos.

“Who’s talking?” Kyoko forced her eyes open, but the bathroom was empty.

‘Oh, what a pitiful girl… hee hee hee…’ The voice was thick, viscous, filled with a chilling mirth.

“Ugh…” Another wave of nausea hit her, stronger this time. Kyoko vomited until her stomach was empty, acidic bile burning her throat.

“Gasp… gasp…” She struggled to breathe, her body trembling.

“Knock, knock.”

“Kyoko, are you okay? You’ve been in there a long time.” A concerned voice called out from beyond the stall door. Kyoko didn’t want to answer.

“The long-distance run is about to start. We need to hurry.”

“Click.” Before she could finish, the stall door swung open. Kyoko emerged, her movements sluggish.

“You scared me! What took you so long?” Her classmate grabbed her hand, her face etched with worry. “Come on, let’s go.”

Long-distance run? Kyoko didn’t think she was in any condition to run.

Logically, she should ask Ms. Eve for permission to rest in the dormitory.

But her mind felt foggy, her thoughts disjointed.

Ask for permission?

Why?

If she didn’t, she would collapse. Collapse…

So what if she collapsed?

Everyone would worry. Worry…

So what if they worried?

Worry… worry… worry… It wasn’t good to make everyone worry.

Why not?

Why?

Why…?

What…?

I don’t know. I…

I don’t know anything.

“Kyoko, what are you spacing out for?”

She vaguely heard Ms. Eve’s voice.

Oh, it had already started.

Started… what had started?

“Run!”

Run? Ms. Eve wanted her to run?

Then… she would run.

Run… move your legs.

Faster… faster…

“She’s so fast!” Kosan stared in disbelief as Kyoko, with a burst of speed, overtook her and everyone else.

She knew Kyoko was athletic, but this was ridiculous!

Kyoko ran like the wind, effortlessly leaving her classmates behind.

Soon, she had even lapped Bubbles, who was bringing up the rear.

“Huff… puff…” Bubbles, her short legs pumping furiously, felt a gust of wind as Kyoko zoomed past.

“Kyo… Kyoko?”

Watching Kyoko disappear into the distance, Bubbles silently cheered herself on.

“Go, Bubbles, go!”

………………………………………………………..

“Bubbles, wasn’t Kyoko amazing today?” Kosan asked as they walked back from the long-distance run.

“…”

Bubbles lay sprawled on the grass, gasping for breath, unable to utter a single word.

“Talk about a gap.” Kosan glanced at Kyoko, who was surrounded by a group of girls, seemingly unfazed by the run, then back at Bubbles, who looked like a beached whale.

“Bubbles… huff… is still young… huff… I’ll… I’ll get faster…” Bubbles managed to choke out between gasps.

‘Well, Bubbles, that depends on your natural talent… And weren’t you running a lap less than us?’ Kosan thought to herself, but she kept her thoughts to herself.

“Hmm?” Kosan noticed Kyoko saying something to the girls, then walking away from the group, heading towards the dormitory.

“Opportunity!” Kosan’s eyes lit up. She quickly made her way towards a certain boy.

Kyoko walked slowly, her legs heavy, her body aching. She felt like she could collapse at any moment.

Her head throbbed, her chest tightened, and the voices in her ears grew louder.

“Buzz… buzz… buzz…”

“Gurgle… gurgle… gurgle…”

The sound of a thousand flies buzzing, the nauseating gurgle of mud…

“Kyoko…”

“Kyoko, are you alright?”

Who… who was calling her name?

“Kyoko!”

She felt a tug on her arm and looked up.

“Oh, it’s Yo.”

“Kosan said you were heading back to the dorm alone. Are you… feeling sick?” The boy looked at her with concern.

“Buzz… buzz… buzz…”

“Gurgle… gurgle… gurgle…”

“So noisy…” Kyoko mumbled, her voice hollow.

“Huh?” The boy stared at her, his brow furrowed in confusion.

“Oh, um… I’m not feeling well.”

Kyoko forced a smile. “Yo, I need to get back to the dorm and rest. Can we talk later?”

“Oh… okay.”

The boy hesitated for a moment. “Kyoko, I’m leaving in a few days.”

“I don’t want to say goodbye, but…” His gaze dimmed.

He wished he could stay with her, go to middle school with her, high school, and then…

“But… I believe in you, Kyoko.” He looked at her, his eyes filled with hope.

Believe… believe in what?

“I know you can do it!”

Do what? What did he want her to do?

“If I can recover, there’s no reason why you can’t.”

‘He’s lying… hee hee hee… he’s lying…’ A viscous, sickeningly cheerful voice echoed in her mind.

“I’ll miss you, Kyoko.”

‘He’s not interested in you anymore… ho ho ho…’

‘But… we have to move on.’

‘Liar!’

“I won’t forget you, Kyoko.”

‘He’s lying! He’s lying!’

“So… let’s make a promise.” The boy forced a smile, his heart aching.

‘Rip his mouth apart… gouge out his eyes… hee hee hee… whoosh… whoosh…’

“When you recover…”

‘Kill… kill… kill… kill… kill… kill… kill… kill… kill… kill… kill… kill… kill… kill… kill… kill… kill… kill… kill… kill… kill… kill…’

“I’ll come…”

“Stop it!” Kyoko clapped her hands over her ears and ran, stumbling past the boy.

Chapter 14: Kyoko’s Bad Ending, Activated

“I was thinking about… biscuits! That’s right, biscuits!” Kyoko exclaimed, clapping her hands together. “Bubbles, I promise I’ll bring you back some Bear Biscuits!”

“Bear Biscuits?” Bubbles’ eyes lit up as she looked at Kyoko expectantly.

“Yes, I promise I’ll come back and visit you with biscuits.”

Kyoko held out her pinky finger. “Pinky promise?”

“Okay!”

Bubbles giggled happily. “Pinky promise!”

She linked her pinky with Kyoko’s. “Pinky swear…”

“A hundred years,” Kyoko finished.

“No take-backs!” they shouted in unison.

On a sunny afternoon, Ms. Eve stretched, her back cracking as she finished cleaning the classroom.

She glanced out the window, watching the children playing in the courtyard, a wistful smile touching her lips.

“Youth is wasted on the young.”

“Don’t say that, Ms. Eve. If even a young woman like you feels that way, what about us old folks?”

“Captain Araki?” Ms. Eve turned around to see the middle-aged man standing in the doorway, his usual stern expression replaced with a rare smile.

“Something good happen, Captain?”

“Something good… yes, indeed.” He held out a thick envelope. “The results of last month’s blood tests are in. We have good news.”

“Good news?” Ms. Eve’s heart skipped a beat. “What kind of good news?”

“Congratulations, Ms. Eve.”

He didn’t keep her in suspense any longer. “One of the children’s Pollution Level has dropped below the threshold. He’s cleared to leave.”

“Five years… five years of hard work, and it finally paid off!”

Ms. Eve felt a wave of dizziness wash over her. She stumbled back, her hand reaching out to steady herself against the wall.

Excitement, joy, relief…

A torrent of emotions surged through her.

“Who… who is it?” she asked, her voice trembling.

…………………………………………………………….

“Nothing beats a cold glass of water after a good game!”

Kyoko gulped down the water, savoring the simple pleasure.

“Kyoko.”

“Ms. Eve?” Kyoko jumped, turning to see Ms. Eve striding towards her.

“Go gather everyone. I have an important announcement to make.” Ms. Eve struggled to contain her excitement as she gave Kyoko instructions.

Kyoko sensed that something was different about Ms. Eve, but she couldn’t quite put her finger on it.

“Okay,” she replied, then ran off towards the courtyard.

“Back to the classroom, everyone! Back to the classroom!”

“Ms. Eve has something important to tell us!”

Soon, the classroom was filled with students.

“I apologize for interrupting your activities, but I have some wonderful news to share!” Ms. Eve beamed at them. “I just received word…”

She paused, taking a deep breath.

“One of you… has recovered! He’s… he’s going home!”

Silence descended upon the classroom. The joyous celebration Ms. Eve had anticipated never materialized.

The children exchanged confused glances, seemingly unmoved by the news.

Ms. Eve frowned, repeating her announcement. “Children, one of your classmates is going back to a normal life!”

Still, no one spoke. Some, like Bubbles, looked bewildered, as if they hadn’t understood.

Others, like Kosan and Kyoko, looked troubled, their faces etched with worry.

After a moment of silence, Kosan’s usual nonchalant expression returned.

“Well, that’s wonderful news. Congratulations!”

Her voice was flat, devoid of any genuine emotion. Then, she raised her voice slightly. “So, Ms. Eve, who’s the lucky one?”

Ms. Eve’s heart sank. The children’s reaction disappointed her deeply.

‘What is this? Don’t they see what this means? Don’t they appreciate my efforts?’

‘This is a momentous occasion, a day to celebrate! Why are they so indifferent?’

‘Where’s the excitement? Where’s the gratitude? Where’s my applause?’

Ms. Eve gritted her teeth, her chest heaving with suppressed anger.

After a moment, she forced a smile, her expression strained. “Yo.”

“Huh?”

The boy stared at her blankly, his mind struggling to catch up.

“Congratulations, Yo.”

“Ms. Eve…” He gaped at her, speechless. “I-is it… me?”

“Ms. Eve!” Kyoko jumped to her feet. “There must be some mistake!”

“Yo… Yo, he… no, it can’t be Yo!” Panic laced her voice as she repeated herself over and over. “It’s not him.”

“It’s not Yo.”

“It can’t be.”

“Impossible.”

“It can’t…”

“Kyoko!” Ms. Eve’s sharp voice cut through Kyoko’s frantic ramblings. Kyoko looked at her, her eyes wide with fear.

“That’s enough! Get out!” Ms. Eve’s voice was cold, devoid of any warmth. Her eyes were dark, her gaze chilling.

‘She’s scary… Ms. Eve’s eyes are scary…’

Kyoko trembled, rooted to the spot.

“Crash!” Ms. Eve slammed her teacup onto the table, shattering it into pieces.

“Get out!”

Silence descended upon the classroom. Then…

“Waaaaahhhh!”

“Sob… sniff… waaaaaahhhh!”

“Boo hoo hoo…”

The younger children burst into tears, their faces pale with fear. The older ones looked on, their expressions a mixture of shock and apprehension.

Ms. Eve’s face was thunderous. Kyoko, her head bowed, walked out of the classroom without a word.

………………………………………………………………

“Kyoko…” Bubbles looked at her friend, her heart filled with worry.

Three days had passed since that incident. Ms. Eve had calmed down, returning to her usual kind and gentle self.

She had even apologized to Kyoko in front of the entire class the next day.

“I’m sorry, Kyoko.”

“I was wrong to lose my temper. I shouldn’t have taken it out on you.”

“You’re still young, you don’t understand. I shouldn’t have expected so much from you.”

“Please, forgive me.”

Ms. Eve had bowed her head sincerely.

“It’s okay, Ms. Eve,” Kyoko had replied, her voice subdued.

Bubbles had thought everything would go back to normal, that they could all be happy again.

She was wrong.

Kyoko hadn’t smiled since that day.

She barely ate, she stopped playing soccer, she was back to her moping, lovesick self.

But… it was different. This time, it was different.

Even Bubbles, young as she was, could sense it. This wasn’t like the last time. Something was wrong with Kyoko.

Bubbles wanted to help her friend, but she couldn’t think of anything.

Yo was leaving. That was a fact.

Ms. Eve had said he would be leaving next week.

‘What do I do? What do I do?’ Bubbles wracked her brain, her brow furrowed in concentration.

A hand landed on her shoulder.

“Kosan?”

“Stop stressing yourself out. Leave it to the ever-reliable Kosan.”

“You… you have a plan?” Bubbles’ eyes widened with hope.

“Well, it all depends on him.” Kosan gestured towards the boy, who was watching Kyoko with a worried expression.

Chapter 13: Justice Man

“Go, Justice Man!”

On the television screen, a man in a yellow jumpsuit, white cape, and a shiny bald head punched a formidable-looking enemy, sending him crashing to the ground.

“Wow, he’s so strong!” Bubbles exclaimed, her eyes sparkling as she sat on the floor with her classmates, watching their favorite animated show.

It was their nightly entertainment time, and tonight’s feature was a popular series about a man who, after undergoing “rigorous training,” transformed into Justice Man, a superhero dedicated to fighting evil.

The catch was that after gaining his incredible powers, the man… well, he lost all his hair. Give and take, that was the way of the world. But one thing was for sure, Justice Man was incredibly powerful.

A hero needed to be strong to fight villains, but this bald-headed man was ridiculously overpowered. No matter how strong the enemy, he always won with a single punch.

“Bubbles wants to be as strong as Justice Man someday!” Bubbles declared, pumping her fist in the air, her face flushed with excitement.

“Ugh, this show is so boring,” a bored voice drawled from behind them. Bubbles jumped.

“Kosan! It’s not boring! Justice Man is super cool!” Bubbles protested.

“Super cool?” Kosan stared at the cartoon superhero on the screen, his generic henchman face and shiny bald head, and frowned.

“Bubbles, your taste is questionable.”

She tapped her chin thoughtfully. “What’s so cool about him?”

“Justice Man can defeat any enemy with one punch!” Bubbles puffed out her chest proudly.

“That just means he’s strong. Anything else?”

“Um… well…” Bubbles racked her brain.

“It doesn’t matter, as long as Bubbles likes it,” Kyoko interjected.

“Hmph, that’s not the point.” Kosan was about to retort when something on the screen caught her eye.

“Bear Biscuits!” she exclaimed. “They have a new flavor!”

Several children who had been looking down perked up at her words.

As the episode ended and the next one began, a commercial filled the gap.

On the screen, a cute cartoon bear poured honey onto a biscuit and took a bite, his face lighting up with delight.

“New flavor, new experience! Get yours today!” The anthropomorphic bear gave a thumbs-up and winked at the viewers.

“Honey flavor…”

“That looks good.”

“My dad bought me some before.”

“I want some!”

“It looks so yummy!” Bubbles stared at the happy bear on the screen, her mouth watering.

“There’s a bakery in the city center that sells Bear Biscuits,” Kosan recalled. “Ugh, I’m craving them now!”

“You’re such a child,” Kyoko said dismissively, seeing Kosan’s eager expression.

“You’re a child too! Don’t you want any?” Kosan retorted.

“Not really,” Kyoko said nonchalantly. “Besides, I’m thirteen. Ms. Eve said I’ll be going to middle school soon.”

“Not like you, little Kosan.” Kyoko stood up, towering over Kosan.

“Ugh, you’re so mean!” Kosan glared at her. “Don’t forget to bring us some Bear Biscuits when you visit! And make sure they’re the new honey flavor!”

“Visit?” Kyoko looked at her, puzzled. “What do you mean?”

“Aren’t you about to graduate?”

“Yeah, so?”

“So…” Kosan hesitated. “Where are we right now?”

“Private Cherry Blossom Elementary School, duh. Have you forgotten already?” Kyoko looked at her with disdain.

“No, I mean…” Kosan stammered, “This is… elementary school. You’re going to middle school…”

“…” Kyoko froze, the realization hitting her like a ton of bricks.

Graduating from elementary school to middle school had seemed like such a simple, natural progression.

‘Oh, I’m going to be a middle schooler soon.’

That was the extent of her thoughts on the matter.

She had never considered the implications, the changes it would bring… until now.

“I… I’m going to middle school,” she said, her voice hollow.

“Kyoko?” Bubbles looked at her, confused by her sudden change in demeanor.

‘This idiot really hasn’t thought about it at all,’ Kosan realized, frowning.

She scanned the room, searching for a certain someone.

There he was, looking at Kyoko with concern.

Kosan quickly caught his eye and gave him a meaningful look.

“Oh my god! I almost forgot, I’m graduating soon! Time flies, doesn’t it? I’m going to miss you, Aze!”

Yo laughed, slinging an arm around his roommate’s shoulder.

“What are you talking about? We’re going to the same school, remember?” His roommate looked at him, puzzled.

“Come on, don’t be so cold!”

“You’re the one being weird!”

As the two boys bickered, a look of relief washed over Kyoko’s face.

That’s right, graduation meant separation.

Soon, she would be leaving her favorite teacher, her adorable Bubbles, her mischievous Kosan…

Kyoko knew why she was at this school. They were different, ostracized by normal society.

Their options were limited. Ms. Eve had mentioned that there weren’t many ‘special schools’ in the city.

Which meant… Private Cherry Blossom Elementary School had a middle school program!

‘Yo is graduating too. We’ll be together,’ she thought, her anxiety fading away.

It would be sad to leave everyone behind, but as long as Yo was with her, it would be okay.

As long as he was there, everything would be alright.

“Bubbles, you better not become one of those friends who ditches their friends for a boyfriend,” Kosan said, pointing at Kyoko with mock disapproval.

“Huh?” Bubbles tilted her head, confused.

“What are you talking about?” Kyoko snapped, her cheeks burning.

“Oh, come on, don’t deny it. You were just thinking how it wouldn’t matter if Bubbles left, as long as your boyfriend was still around.” Kosan gave Bubbles a sympathetic look. “Don’t worry, Bubbles, Kosan’s still here for you.”

“I’ll take care of you!”

“That’s not true!” Kyoko protested, her face turning even redder.

“Kyoko…”

Seeing Bubbles’ crestfallen expression, Kyoko quickly added, “Don’t listen to Kosan, she’s just teasing!”

Ignoring Kyoko’s pleading look, Kosan smirked.

“Then tell us, what were you thinking about just now?”

Chapter 12: The One Unforgivable Thing

Ms. Eve was touched by Bubbles’ heartfelt declaration.

But beneath the warmth, a flicker of anger ignited within her.

She masked her emotions, patting Bubbles’ head gently. “Go back to the dormitory, Bubbles. ‘Justice Man’ is about to start, isn’t it?”

“Oh!” Bubbles gasped, realizing how late it had gotten.

“Bubbles is going now!”

As Bubbles hurried out of the classroom, Ms. Eve’s mind raced.

She had high hopes for Bubbles.

She had studied the girl’s file. Abandoned by her parents, raised by her sister, only to lose her last remaining family member a few months ago…

Ms. Eve sympathized with Bubbles’ tragic past, but she also saw potential in her.

The potential to leave this place, to rejoin normal society.

Bubbles seemed to love it here, but Ms. Eve knew it was just a child’s naive perspective, a temporary attachment to a sheltered environment.

Private Cherry Blossom Elementary School was, in essence, a containment facility for Polluted individuals.

Polluted individuals, a term coined after the Great Calamity, referred to a specific segment of the population.

The world they lived in was a world tainted by Chaos.

Everyone carried within them a certain amount of ‘Chaos Factor.’ The higher the ‘Chaos Factor,’ the higher the ‘Pollution Level.’

And when the Pollution Level exceeded a certain threshold, things… things tended to get messy.

The average person had a Pollution Level between 15% and 30%. Anything above 30%… well, that was no longer a normal person. That was a ‘Polluted individual.’

Underage Polluted individuals were quarantined and observed. Special schools like Private Cherry Blossom Elementary School had sprung up all over the country, catering to these children.

They received a basic education, and if their condition improved, if their Pollution Level dropped below the threshold, they could rejoin society.

As for what happened to adult Polluted individuals, or those who remained above the threshold even after reaching adulthood… well, Ms. Eve didn’t know, and she didn’t want to know.

There were many reasons why someone might have a high Pollution Level.

Some were born Polluted, even if their parents were perfectly normal.

Some had encountered Chaotic entities, surviving the encounter only to have their Chaos Factor triggered, turning them into Polluted individuals.

Some had experienced traumatic events, their minds shattered, their Pollution Levels spiking as a result.

And some… some simply woke up one day and found themselves Polluted.

In Ms. Eve’s opinion, Bubbles was a classic case of trauma-induced Pollution.

Knowing the cause, and having observed Bubbles closely over the past few months, Ms. Eve believed the girl had a good chance of returning to a normal life.

Bubbles hadn’t become cynical or bitter despite her difficult childhood. On the contrary, she was a model student, kind and well-behaved.

The results of her three monthly blood tests showed that her condition was stable, her Pollution Level remaining at 30.5%.

Stability was good. Stability meant hope.

The only way Ms. Eve knew to help these children lower their Pollution Levels and rejoin society was to provide them with a positive environment, to foster a sense of belonging, to educate them, to nurture their mental well-being, to fill their hearts with hope…

In short, it all boiled down to one word: love.

To guide these children with love, to help them find their way back to the world.

Just like… just like her own teacher had done for her.

……………………………………………………..

Eve, once a Polluted individual, now a teacher.

The story of how she became Polluted was a rather cliché one.

Eve had a happy childhood, a loving mother, a busy but doting father.

Until that day, when a robber broke into their home.

The police later told her it was his first offense.

And first-time offenders were often the most prone to making irreversible mistakes.

Eve couldn’t recall the details of that day. All she remembered was the sight of her parents lying in a pool of blood, and the fleeting glimpse of the robber fleeing the scene.

Her life had shattered that day. Soon after, she found herself whisked away to a special school by a group of strangers in black suits and sunglasses.

The trauma transformed her into a bitter, rebellious child. Her volatile temper made life at the school a living hell.

Her classmates ostracized her, and most of the teachers treated her like she was invisible.

More than once, she overheard them talking about her.

“She’s a lost cause.”

“She’ll never get out.”

“She’ll never be normal again.”

The world had given up on her.

Except… for Ms. Matsuo.

Ms. Matsuo was a kind, elderly woman, a gentle soul.

She never shunned Eve. Instead, she treated her with extra care and attention.

“I have a granddaughter your age, you know,” she would often say.

She tolerated Eve’s outbursts, her anger, her resentment, her pain.

One day, Eve finally asked, “Do I look like your granddaughter?”

“Hmm?” Ms. Matsuo looked at her, puzzled. “No, not at all.”

“Then why are you so nice to me?”

“Silly child, I’m your teacher.” Ms. Matsuo smiled, her eyes crinkling at the corners.

“…”

Despite herself, Eve was touched. Slowly, she began to heal.

The rebellious, volatile Eve disappeared, replaced by a friendlier, more cheerful girl.

Eventually, the Polluted Eve became Eve again.

Life after returning to society wasn’t easy. The stigma of being a former Polluted individual followed her everywhere.

Despite her excellent grades, she struggled to find a job after graduation.

But society hadn’t completely abandoned her. She eventually found a job, a rather unique one, but one that she found deeply fulfilling.

The unemployed Eve became Ms. Eve, the teacher.

She was eternally grateful to Ms. Matsuo, and she vowed to become just like her.

She poured her heart and soul into her work, studying each student’s file, searching for ways to help them heal.

But after five years, five long years, she had yet to see a single success story.

What was she doing wrong?

Was it because some children, like Kyoko, were born Polluted, and there was nothing she could do?

Was it because some children, like Kosan, were trapped in their past traumas, unable to move on?

Or was it… because she wasn’t loving enough?

And then, Bubbles arrived.

A new transfer student, with a tragic past, yet devoid of bitterness.

A kind, gentle soul, despite the pain she had endured.

A good girl, a good girl with a Pollution Level of only 30.5%.

Ms. Eve knew that if she couldn’t help Bubbles rejoin society, then the very foundation of her beliefs would crumble.

‘It will work,’ she thought, her jaw clenching.

‘It has to.’

‘Because Bubbles is a good girl.’

‘But… if she’s such a good girl, why would she say she doesn’t want to leave?’

Ms. Eve’s eyes narrowed. That was the one thing she couldn’t tolerate.

Chapter 11: Curtain Call for the Romantic Comedy

As soon as Kyoko stepped out of the dormitory, she saw the boy pacing under a tree.

“Yo!”

“Kyoko!” The boy’s face lit up as he called out her name.

He had been waiting for what felt like an eternity, convinced that this was just another one of Kosan’s elaborate pranks.

But it wasn’t…

‘Sorry for doubting you, Kosan,’ he thought, a wave of gratitude washing over him as he walked towards Kyoko, who was looking at him with a mixture of anticipation and apprehension.

“Yo, have you been waiting long?”

“N-no, not really.”

“…”

“…”

The two stood there, gazing at each other, a comfortable silence settling between them.

“I heard you wanted to talk to me,” Kyoko said, her voice barely a whisper.

Seeing the hope in her eyes, the boy nodded.

“There’s something I need to tell you, Kyoko.”

A cold wind whipped around them, but the boy felt his cheeks burning.

“I… I’ve always had this girl I cared about,” he began, his voice gaining strength as he spoke.

“She’s responsible, kind, and…”

Kyoko blushed, her heart pounding in her chest.

“But lately, she’s changed.”

The boy paused, his voice laced with sadness. “For some reason, she’s lost her smile.”

Kyoko opened her mouth to speak, then closed it again, unsure what to say.

“I realized then… that I had lost something precious.”

“Yo…” Kyoko’s eyes softened.

“I wanted to do something for her, but I didn’t know what.”

“Thankfully… someone pointed me in the right direction.”

He nodded towards Kosan, who had emerged from the dormitory and was hiding behind another tree, watching them with a mischievous grin.

‘Not bad, Yo, not bad at all,’ she thought, giving him a thumbs-up.

“It turns out… I was the clueless one all along.”

The boy gazed at Kyoko, his eyes filled with warmth.

“I like you, Kyoko.”

“I… I like you too.”

Tears welled up in Kyoko’s eyes as a wide smile spread across her face.

“Yo…”

“Kyoko…”

They moved closer, about to share a tender moment, when Kosan, unable to contain herself any longer, let out a piercing shriek.

“Reeeeeeeeeeee!!!”

“What?!”

“What was that?!”

The earsplitting scream echoed through the dormitory, jolting the couple apart.

“Come look, everyone! Kyoko’s about to do something naughty!”

The next moment, the other students, alerted by Kosan’s well-timed interruption, poured out of the dormitory, their faces a mixture of curiosity and amusement.

“Wow, Yo, you’re a bold one!” A girl with sparkling eyes exclaimed.

“Kyoko, you have terrible taste! That scrawny little runt?” A jealous boy scoffed.

“Nice one, buddy!” Yo’s roommate nudged him, grinning.

“Glad I stayed up late for this,” a girl yawned.

Kyoko and Yo stood there, frozen in the spotlight, surrounded by their classmates.

After a moment of stunned silence, Kyoko snapped.

“Aaaaaaaaaaahhhh!”

“Kosan, I’m going to kill you!”

(And thus, the romantic comedy came to an abrupt end.)

……………………………………………………..

Thanks to Kosan’s well-timed interruption, Kyoko and Yo’s relationship remained somewhat awkward.

Instead of becoming inseparable lovebirds, they returned to their usual routine.

Well, not entirely.

“Here you go, Kyoko.” The boy placed a bowl of food on her table.

“Thank you, Yo.” Kyoko mumbled, blushing.

“Hee hee.” The boy grinned sheepishly.

“Get a room, you two!” Kosan groaned, rolling her eyes.

“Go eat somewhere else,” Kyoko said, glaring at the uninvited guest as if she were something unpleasant.

“Ouch! Is that how you treat your matchmaker?” Kosan feigned hurt.

“You? My matchmaker?” Kyoko scoffed.

“What’s wrong with that?”

“…”

Bubbles, watching their interaction, giggled happily.

She was glad things had turned out this way. When she first arrived, she had been filled with anxiety.

Compared to the familiar orphanage, Private Cherry Blossom Elementary School was a completely unknown world.

She didn’t know what kind of people she would meet, how she would be treated… everything was uncertain.

But it had all turned out better than she could have imagined.

A kind teacher, friendly classmates, a caring class president, a mischievous deskmate…

Bubbles loved it here. She cherished every day.

‘It’s so much fun being with everyone. I wish I could stay here forever,’ she thought.

Days turned into weeks, weeks into months. Spring arrived, chasing away the winter chill. Bubbles had been at Private Cherry Blossom Elementary School for three months now.

She had learned so much: basic arithmetic, the fact that the Federation was a multi-ethnic nation…

And most importantly, she had finally learned to write.

After school, while her classmates were back in the dormitory, enjoying their favorite TV shows, Bubbles stayed behind in the classroom.

With Ms. Eve’s encouragement, she concentrated all her effort into writing her name, the characters wobbly and uneven.

“Bub-bles.” Ms. Eve smiled, her heart swelling with pride as she looked at the two characters scrawled on the page.

Bubbles had started with almost no foundation, unable to read or write.

Knowing this, Ms. Eve had dedicated an hour each day after school to tutoring her.

“You’re a fast learner, Bubbles,” Ms. Eve praised.

Bubbles beamed, wiping her nose with the back of her hand. She was proud of herself too.

“You’re doing so well, Bubbles. In a few years, you’ll be ready for a better school.”

Bubbles’ face fell. “But Ms. Eve, I don’t want to go anywhere else. I like it here.”

“Silly girl, you haven’t been to other schools.”

“There are more friends to make, more teachers to learn from…” Ms. Eve tried to reason with her, hoping to motivate her.

“The cafeteria is bigger, and they have meat every day.”

“They have more snacks.”

“The beds in the dorms are softer…”

“No! No! Bubbles doesn’t want to leave!” Bubbles shook her head vehemently.

“Are you afraid of making new friends? Don’t worry, you’re such a sweet girl, everyone will love you.”

“No!”

“Then… are you worried about falling behind? About not being able to keep up with the other students?” Ms. Eve pointed at herself. “You have to trust me, Bubbles.”

“No! No!”

Bubbles was unusually stubborn. “I just don’t want to go!”

“…” Ms. Eve was confused.

Bubbles looked at her, her expression serious. “No matter how good other places are, if Ms. Eve and everyone else aren’t there, Bubbles doesn’t want to go!”

Chapter 10: The Girl I Care About

The boy had a girl he cared about.

She was lively and intelligent.

Though a girl, she excelled at sports, her energetic figure a common sight on the playground.

She was a caring friend, always the first to offer a helping hand.

She was a responsible student, always completing her tasks with a smile.

She was… the girl he admired.

The boy loved playing soccer, not just for the sport itself, but for the chance to see her in her element, her confidence and skill on full display.

He won some matches, lost many more.

But it didn’t matter.

Seeing her bright smile was all the reward he needed.

But lately, everything had changed.

For some reason, the girl had become withdrawn.

She was distracted in class, lost in thought during breaks.

The classroom felt empty without her cheerful voice, the playground dull without her energetic presence.

What had happened to his bright, cheerful girl?

That day, the boy couldn’t take it anymore.

As soon as class ended, he walked straight up to her.

“Kyoko, is something bothering you?”

………………………………………………………………..

“Yo?”

Kyoko, startled out of her reverie, looked up to see the boy standing before her, his expression filled with concern.

‘Yo… It’s Yo…’

‘What do I do? He’s talking to me!’

‘He’s worried about me… I’m so happy!’

‘But what should I say?’

‘He’ll think I’m weird if I don’t say anything…’

“…”

In the end, all she managed was a stammered, “I-I’m not feeling well.”

And with that, she fled the classroom like a whirlwind.

“Not feeling well? You should…”

“Drink plenty of fluids.”

The boy finished his sentence, his voice laced with disappointment, but the girl’s seat was empty.

He bit his lip, his shoulders slumping. After a moment, he turned and trudged back to his own desk.

“Oof!”

Lost in thought, he bumped into someone.

“Oh, sorry about that. Yo, isn’t it?”

The boy looked up to see Kosan staring down at him, a knowing smirk on her face.

“It’s okay,” he mumbled, brushing himself off. “I should’ve been paying attention.”

“Right.” Kosan drew out the word. “Say, there’s something off about Kyoko lately, don’t you think?”

“You’ve noticed it too?” The boy looked at her in surprise.

“Of course! She’s my friend, you know. I’d be a terrible friend if I didn’t notice something was wrong.”

“Friend?” The boy frowned. He didn’t recall them being particularly close.

“Yes, friend. Why are you so surprised?” Kosan looked at him as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.

“Sure, we bicker sometimes, but that’s just how we show our affection.”

“Is… is that so?” The boy was skeptical.

“So, Yo, do you know why Kyoko’s been acting so strange?” Kosan asked, a mischievous glint in her eye.

“You know?” The boy’s head shot up.

“Hee hee hee, I do. But why should I tell you?” Kosan’s expression shifted in an instant, her earlier concern replaced with playful malice.

“But… you’re her friend, aren’t you? Tell me what’s wrong! Maybe… maybe I can help!”

The boy’s anxiety spiked. He didn’t care if Kosan was messing with him. All he wanted was to do something, anything, to help the girl he cared about.

“Oh, you want to help her that badly? Since when did you two get so close?”

The classroom fell silent, all eyes on them.

The commotion had drawn the attention of their classmates, their curiosity piqued by the unexpected drama unfolding before them.

“I… I…” Caught between a rock and a hard place, the boy wished he could disappear like Kyoko had.

As if reading his mind, Kosan spoke, her voice laced with amusement. “Come on, Yo, don’t be a chicken. Running away won’t solve anything. Besides, Kyoko hates weaklings.”

“Kyoko…” The boy froze, his gaze fixed on Kosan.

‘This is working even better than I expected,’ Kosan thought gleefully.

She stood up and walked over to the boy, clapping him on the shoulder.

“Give me one good reason why I should tell you.”

The boy’s expression shifted rapidly. Just as Kosan was about to give up on him, he seemed to come to a decision.

‘There must be something I can do!’

He took a deep breath, trying to appear calm, but his voice trembled with nervous energy.

“I… like…”

“Oh?” Kosan’s eyes widened. “Like what, Yo? Be specific.”

“I… I like Kyoko!”

…………………………………………………………..

Just as the bell was about to ring, Kyoko slipped back into the classroom.

She walked back to her seat in silence, acutely aware of the curious stares following her every move.

‘I’m never doing that again,’ she thought, assuming her classmates were simply reacting to her uncharacteristic behavior.

She snuck a glance at the boy. Their eyes met for a fleeting moment before they both quickly looked away.

Kyoko’s cheeks burned as she lowered her head, her heart pounding in her chest.

Class, daydream, break, daydream, class, daydream, lunch, daydream…

The day passed in a blur.

Later that night, as Kyoko lay in bed, unable to sleep, she heard a soft knock on the door.

‘Who would be knocking at this hour? Is someone playing a prank?’

She had no intention of getting out of bed.

But then…

The lights flickered on, and a familiar voice broke the silence.

“It’s no time to be sleeping, sleepyhead.”

“Huh?”

Kyoko sat up to see a wide-awake Kosan and a sleepy-eyed Bubbles standing in the doorway.

“What are you…”

“Don’t just lie there! Get up, we went through a lot of trouble for this.”

“Even if you say so…” Kyoko frowned, confused. “What’s going on? It’s the middle of the night!”

“Yo is waiting for you downstairs,” Bubbles mumbled, stifling a yawn.

“Yo?”

Before Kyoko could process this bombshell, Kosan grabbed her arm and pulled her out of bed.

“Come on, let’s go!”

“Wait! It’s freezing!” Kyoko protested, shivering. “Let me get a jacket! It’s winter, for crying out loud!”

“Do you really want to keep him waiting? He poured his heart out, you know.”

“If you’re too scared to face him, I’ll just tell him you chickened out.”

“No!”

Kyoko was wide awake now. She grabbed Kosan’s arm.

“Well? Are you coming or not?” Kosan raised an eyebrow.

“I’m coming! I’m coming!”

Before Kosan could say another word, Kyoko was out the door.

Chapter 9: You Must Be Sick!

“Kyoko, you’ve been acting strange lately,” Bubbles said, looking at Kyoko, who was sitting on the bed, lost in thought.

“Strange?” Kyoko jumped, “No way, what are you talking about?”

“You weren’t paying attention in class today and got scolded by Ms. Eve.” Bubbles held up a finger thoughtfully.

“Well… it was almost lunchtime. I was just a little distracted.”

Bubbles shook her head and held up another finger. “You’re not eating as much. You’ve only had two bowls of rice at every meal these past few days.”

“Heh heh.” Kyoko gave a dry laugh. “It’s not good for girls to eat too much. What if… what if I get fat…”

Before she could finish, she saw Bubbles’ eyes widen in alarm.

“You’re sick! Kyoko, you’re sick!” Bubbles cried, turning to run out the door.

“Wait, hold on!”

“Bubbles, wait!”

Sensing disaster, Kyoko leaped off the bed.

She caught up to Bubbles in a flash and grabbed her arm. “Where are you going?”

“I need to get Ms. Eve! Let go of me, Kyoko, let go!”

Bubbles struggled for a moment, then gave up, her small limbs no match for Kyoko’s grip.

“We need to see a doctor when we’re sick! Don’t be stubborn!” Bubbles pleaded, her face etched with worry.

“Who’s sick? I’m perfectly fine!” Kyoko said, exasperated.

“…But you said you couldn’t eat anymore. You must be sick!” Bubbles insisted. “We have to tell Ms. Eve!”

Kyoko’s eye twitched.

‘Does she really think of me as some kind of bottomless pit?’

She sighed. “Bubbles, I’m really not sick. It’s just… you wouldn’t understand.”

Kyoko released Bubbles, her expression troubled.

“I wouldn’t understand?”

Bubbles tilted her head. “Bubbles might not be the smartest, but how would you know if I don’t understand if you don’t tell me? Maybe… maybe I do know.”

“Hmm…” Kyoko pondered this.

“Tell me, tell me!” Bubbles pleaded, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

“Well…” Kyoko hesitated.

“Please, please, please!” Bubbles shook Kyoko’s arm insistently.

“Fine, fine, I’ll tell you.”

“But you can’t tell anyone! Promise?” Kyoko fixed Bubbles with a serious look. “Not even Ms. Eve!”

“Not even Ms. Eve?” Bubbles’ curiosity deepened. After a moment, she declared, “Bubbles is a good girl. Bubbles never lies. So…”

“I promise I won’t tell a soul.”

Reassured, Kyoko took a deep breath.

“Bubbles,” she began, “Have you ever… felt this way?”

“There’s this person… someone you pretend not to care about…”

“But whenever they’re near, your heart beats so fast you think it might burst.”

“You act tough whenever you talk to them, but later you regret every word you said.”

“You think about them constantly… during class, during meals…”

“Even when you’re back in the dorm, your mind is filled with thoughts of them.”

Kyoko’s voice trailed off. She sounded as if she were speaking both to Bubbles and to herself.

“What’s wrong with me?”

“What’s wrong with you? It’s obvious!”

A voice interrupted them, smug and self-satisfied. “Our dear class president has a crush!”

Before Bubbles could even process Kyoko’s confession, the door swung open, revealing an unwelcome visitor.

“Kosan!” Kyoko shrieked, her face turning crimson. “You were eavesdropping!”

“Eavesdropping? How could you accuse me of such a thing?”

Kosan spread her hands innocently. “I just happened to be passing by and heard a commotion. Naturally, I was concerned. What if our usually uptight, goody-two-shoes class president was bullying our precious Bubbles?”

“Out of concern for my fellow classmates, I decided to linger for a bit.”

“That’s still eavesdropping!” Kyoko cried.

“Must you shout? What if someone hears you?” Kosan smirked. “It wouldn’t be good for certain secrets to get out, would it?”

She shut the door behind her, clearly not planning to leave anytime soon.

“What are you doing?” Kyoko asked, a sense of foreboding washing over her.

“Well, let’s just say…” Kosan drawled, enjoying Kyoko’s growing discomfort. “You might be bossy, loud, nosy, and act like a tomboy most of the time…”

Seeing Kyoko’s darkening expression, she quickly changed her tune. “But… you do have your moments of girlishness.”

Kyoko lowered her head. After a moment, she pulled out three candies from her pocket.

“Hmph, here.”

“Hmm?” Kosan didn’t move.

“This is all I have!” Seeing Kosan’s nonchalant act, Kyoko’s temper flared again. “Don’t push your luck!”

“Bubbles has some too!” Bubbles chimed in, her voice filled with reluctance as she produced the milk candy Ms. Eve had given her. “If it’s not enough, you can have Bubbles’ too.”

“Bubbles…” Kyoko was touched. She stepped in front of Bubbles protectively.

“This is Bubbles’! You can’t have it!”

“Oh, come on, you two.” Kosan waved her hand dismissively. “Do I look like someone who would exploit someone’s private affairs for a few pieces of candy?”

“Aren’t you?” Kyoko narrowed her eyes.

“Ahem, it seems you have a rather low opinion of me, Kyoko… Fine, I’ll be frank.”

Kosan’s expression turned serious. “This time, I’m here to help.”

“Huh?” Kyoko stared at her incredulously. “What was that?”

“Don’t sound so surprised. I, Kosan, am offering you my assistance.”

“Ms. Eve is worried about you, you know,” Kosan added.

“Ms. Eve? Worried about me?”

“Of course! You’ve been moping around for days. Naturally, she’s concerned.”

“I don’t really care how you feel about me, but…” Kosan continued, “This is stressing Ms. Eve out.”

“So let me help you.”

“Go back to being the bossy, nosy, class president we all know and love. Stop worrying everyone.”

“Even if you say so…” Kyoko sighed, deflated. “You can’t help me.”

“…”

Kosan raised an eyebrow, feeling a little offended.

“Hmph.”

“Hahahahahaha!”

Without warning, Kosan burst into laughter.

“What’s so funny?” Before Kyoko could finish, Kosan interrupted. “It’s Yo, isn’t it?”

“You… you… you…” Kyoko pointed a trembling finger at the smug girl before her, speechless.

“‘You, you, you…’ What? Are you asking how I knew?”

Kosan snorted. “Please, it’s so obvious.”

“Obvious? What do you mean ‘obvious’?” Kyoko’s cheeks flushed crimson.

‘Really? Does everyone know?’

“Hello? Earth to Kyoko?” Kosan snapped her fingers, interrupting Kyoko’s spiraling thoughts. “Now do you believe me?”

“…”

Looking at Kyoko, speechless but clearly expectant, Kosan drawled, “I might have an idea.”

Chapter 8: Short Legs, Slow Walk

“Go, Kyoko!”

“Don’t let the girls win!”

“Shoot! Goal!”

“Yay!”

“Go, go, go!” Bubbles cheered from the sidelines.

On the makeshift soccer field, a group of children were engaged in a spirited, if somewhat chaotic, match.

It wasn’t a proper game, not with their limited numbers and varying ages. Some of the younger children were relegated to cheering from the sidelines.

They had agreed on a few basic rules: one point for each goal. As for the rest…

“Kosan, you’re the goalie! What are you doing all the way over there?”

“Never mind that! I won’t let you hog all the glory, Kyoko!”

Kosan sprinted across the field, shouting at the top of her lungs. Distracted, she tripped over her own feet and landed face-first on the ground.

“Now’s my chance!”

A boy with tanned skin and a bright smile seized the opportunity, dribbling the ball with impressive speed.

This point is mine! He thought, his competitive spirit burning. A surge of adrenaline coursed through him as he pushed himself harder.

Faster! Faster! Faster!

He had never run this fast before. The unguarded goal was within reach!

“Not so fast!”

The sound of a certain girl’s voice made him falter.

“He’s open!”

Kyoko didn’t hesitate. Taking advantage of the boy’s momentary lapse in concentration, she slid tackled the ball, sending it flying in the opposite direction.

“Hee hee, it’s mine now!”

Cheers erupted from the sidelines as Kyoko regained control of the ball.

She glanced down at her opponent, surprised to see that he wasn’t upset. Instead, he flashed her a good-natured grin.

“Nice one, Kyoko. You’re too good.”

“Well, of course I am.”

“You’ll have to try harder than that to beat me, Yo.” Despite her confident words, Kyoko’s heart skipped a beat.

‘Was that too mean?’ she wondered. ‘Should I be nicer next time? But I’ve always been like this with Yo. What if he thinks I’m weird for acting differently all of a sudden?’

Her thoughts in turmoil, Kyoko glared at the boy’s cheerful face, a strange mix of annoyance and something else bubbling within her.

“Come on, team! Let’s score another goal!”

“Yeah!”

Fueled by a strange cocktail of emotions, Kyoko charged back into the game.

…………………………………………………………

“One more, please!”

Kyoko held out her empty bowl at the cafeteria window.

“…” The burly man behind the counter silently refilled it.

“Kyo- Kyoko…”

“What is it, Bubbles?” Kyoko mumbled through a mouthful of rice.

“Isn’t that a bit too much? You just finished a whole bowl!” Bubbles stared at her in awe. She had struggled to finish even half of her own portion.

“I’m a growing girl! I need my energy.”

Kyoko picked up a piece of pickled radish and popped it into her mouth, chasing it down with a spoonful of rice. “Man, I wish we had some meat.”

She eyed the meager offerings on the table: pickled radish, boiled cabbage… “It’s almost the end of the month,” she said wistfully. “We’ll have something good to eat then.”

“Something good?” Bubbles looked at her curiously.

“Yeah, something good.”

Kyoko didn’t elaborate, focusing on finishing her lunch.

A few minutes later, she was back at the window. “Excuse me, sir, one more!”

Meanwhile, at the school gates, Eve greeted the burly man with a smile. “Heading out, Captain Araki?”

“Yes, Ms. Eve. A bit earlier than usual today.” Araki smiled back, a rare sight. “I hear the new student arrived. Planning a little welcome party?”

“Indeed.” Araki pulled out a logbook. “If you’ll just sign the entry and exit log, Ms. Eve. You understand, it’s protocol.”

“Of course, Captain. You’re too kind.”

Watching the woman before him, Araki couldn’t help but feel a surge of respect.

Ms. Eve was a remarkable woman. It took a special kind of person to persevere in this line of work.

No fancy clothes, no close friends, no loving partner.

Bland food, meager rations.

Basic accommodation, devoid of any luxury.

The pay wasn’t terrible, but it wasn’t exactly enticing either.

And most importantly, their freedom was severely restricted. One outing per month, five hours maximum.

Teachers came and went, many leaving within a month, unable to handle the isolation and pressure.

But Ms. Eve? She had been here for five years. Five long years.

‘How many five years does a person have?’

That was why he and his men often turned a blind eye to her little transgressions.

Like her monthly grocery runs to supplement the children’s diet.

Like the extra snacks she always seemed to have tucked away in her pockets.

Araki felt himself becoming softer, more lenient, ever since Ms. Eve had arrived.

By the book, he should have confiscated the bag of snacks Bubbles had brought with her.

‘I’m getting old,’ he thought wryly, his expression returning to its usual stoicism.

He scrutinized the logbook, ensuring everything was in order before looking up at Eve. “Remember, Ms. Eve, you have five hours. Please return to the premises on time.”

“Of course, Captain. See you later.”

Eve waved goodbye and hurried off, her mind already buzzing with dinner plans.

She didn’t see the salute.

“Salute!”

The moment she was out of sight, Captain Araki and the other guards snapped to attention, their hands raised in a silent gesture of respect.

………………………………………………………………………..

“Dinner time! Food waits for no one!”

The moment the bell rang, a certain ravenous girl bolted towards the cafeteria.

“One serving of rice, please. And make it a big one!”

A heaping bowl of steaming rice appeared before her. As Kyoko reached for it, a small plate of braised pork materialized beside it.

“Huh?”

She blinked, then noticed Ms. Eve peering at her from behind the counter, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

“M-Ms. Eve?”

“Don’t block the other students, Kyoko.”

“Oh, right! Sorry!”

Kyoko scurried back to her table, her face beaming. “Bubbles, come on! We’ve got something good tonight!”

“Coming!”

Short legs, slow walk. Bubbles, as always, was the last to arrive.

She finally reached the front of the line, collected her food, and turned to leave.

“Bubbles!” Ms. Eve called out.

“Yes, Ms. Eve?”

“This is a special reward for being such a good girl.” Eve handed her a piece of milk candy, winking conspiratorially.

“Don’t tell anyone.”

Bubbles stared at her, then broke into a wide grin.

“Okay!”

Chapter 7: Our Journey is to the Stars!

A new day began, and with it, Bubbles’s school life.

“Class is in session.”

“Stand up.”

“Good morning, everyone.” Ms. Eve surveyed the twenty-three children seated before her, a satisfied smile gracing her lips. “Excellent, everyone’s present.”

“Good morning, Ms. Eve!”

Bubbles bowed along with her classmates and took her seat.

She had been assigned a spot in the front row, directly facing the teacher’s desk. While this was partly due to Ms. Eve’s attentiveness, it was mainly because Bubbles was rather short.

It wasn’t that she was underdeveloped; compared to other children her age, Bubbles’s height was perfectly normal. However, her classmates ranged in age from seven-year-olds like herself to thirteen-year-olds like Kyoko, the class president.

Despite the age gap, the children sat attentively, listening to their teacher, creating a surprisingly harmonious atmosphere.

“Today, we’ll be revisiting the history of the Federation. Those who haven’t heard it before, please listen carefully. As for the rest of you, I expect your full attention as well.”

“Three hundred years ago, the Blue Planet was a thriving world. Technology had reached unimaginable heights, far surpassing what we have today.”

“According to historical records, the first interstellar spacecraft had been successfully developed, and the ‘Second Home’ project was entering its final stages. Interplanetary migration was on the horizon.”

“People all over the world were united as never before. There was a popular slogan back then.” Ms. Eve smiled. “Can anyone tell me what it was?”

“Yes, Kyoko, you were the first to raise your hand. The floor is yours.”

Kyoko, seated in the back row, stood up and declared with a flourish, “Our journey is to the stars!”

“That’s right!”

Ms. Eve beamed. “What an inspiring, empowering statement.”

“If only everything had gone according to plan, perhaps…” A wave of emotion washed over Eve as she imagined the lost potential of humanity.

“But then… the Chaos came.”

…………………………………………………………..

Ms. Eve continued, her voice filled with emotion as she described the arrival of the Chaos and humanity’s struggle against the overwhelming disaster.

Earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons… natural disasters of unprecedented scale ravaged the planet.

Grotesque, bloodthirsty, and utterly alien creatures, the harbingers of Chaos, descended upon the world.

The hostile environment and terrifying enemies were daunting challenges, but humanity refused to yield.

Countless heroes fought and died, their bravery and sacrifice a testament to the indomitable spirit of mankind.

The war raged for a century, and in the end, humanity emerged victorious, albeit at a terrible cost.

The environment, scarred by the taint of Chaos, remained hostile. Human civilization, once a beacon of progress, lay in ruins.

To make matters worse, remnants of the defeated Chaos still lingered, lurking in the shadows, waiting for an opportunity to unleash their fury upon the world.

Bubbles listened intently, only partially comprehending the gravity of Ms. Eve’s words.

The idea of restoring the Blue Planet to its former glory, of the Federation carrying the torch of their ancestors, was lost on her young mind. But if Ms. Eve said it was important, then it must be true.

And so, with a mix of understanding and wonder, Bubbles completed her first lesson.

“So, Bubbles, how was it? Getting used to school life?”

Kyoko, Bubbles’s roommate and the class president, approached her, her expression surprisingly gentle.

“It’s nice,” Bubbles replied with a nod.

“If you need anything, don’t hesitate to ask. I’m the class president, after all.” Kyoko puffed out her chest proudly. “Bubbles…”

“Since when did you become so caring, Kyoko?” Kosan, a girl seated behind them, interrupted playfully. “You were never this nice to me.”

“Hmph.” Kyoko glared at her former roommate and resident troublemaker.

“Don’t you know?” Kyoko lifted her chin.

“Ms. Eve asked me to look after Bubbles.” She emphasized the words ‘Ms. Eve.’ “It’s a very important task, one that only the class president can handle.”

“Oh…” Kosan deflated slightly, realizing that her favorite teacher was involved. “I see.”

Kyoko pressed her advantage. “Besides, you have some nerve!”

“Who hid my backpack and made me cry for hours?”

“Who put a frog in my bed and made me roll off in fright?”

“Who scared me while I was eating and made me choke on my food?”

“Who…”

Kyoko continued listing Kosan’s past transgressions, her expression a mixture of mock anger and amusement.

“That’s awful! Who would do such a thing?” Kosan feigned innocence.

“You! It was you all along!” Kyoko pointed an accusing finger at her. “You’re a menace, Kosan! I bet you’ll be crying yourself to sleep in that empty dorm room of yours!”

“That’s what you think.” A sly smile spread across Kosan’s face. “Who said I’d be alone?”

“And for your information, I never cry.”

“Let’s see… there are twenty-two students in our class, and we share dorm rooms, right?”

“Yeah, so?”

“So?” Kyoko gestured towards Bubble, then herself. “Now that Bubbles’s here, and I, being the kind and considerate senior that I am, moved in with her, that means…”

She folded her arms triumphantly. “You’re all alone, Kosan!”

“…Hahahaha!” Kosan jumped to her feet, looking down at Kyoko. “You thought you had me, didn’t you?”

“Huh?” Kyoko frowned.

“One, two, three, four… twenty-three.” Kosan counted the students in the classroom under her breath.

“Twenty-three divided by two doesn’t result in a whole number, Kyoko. You should pay more attention in math class.”

“…Don’t treat me like an idiot!” Kosan fumed. She had planned to drag out the suspense, to savor the look on Kyoko’s face when she revealed her trump card, but now she couldn’t wait any longer.

“Ms. Eve, she… she moved in with me!”

“What?!”

“Really?”

“No way!”

The children flocked around Kosan, their eyes wide with disbelief.

“It’s true! Ms. Eve spent the whole night with me!” Kosan basked in their envious gazes, her expression triumphant.

“With Ms. Eve, there are twenty-four of us. Twenty-four divided by two is a whole number!”

“Looks like you’re the one who miscalculated, class president!”

“Hee hee hee!”

“W-what? How is that possible?” Kyoko was devastated.

“How is it not?” Kosan smirked. “Looks like you’re stuck with the newbie, Kyoko. Ms. Eve is all mine!”

Her victory was short-lived.

“No fair! Ms. Eve belongs to everyone!”

“That’s not fair!”

“Kosan’s being selfish!”

The classroom erupted in protest. Ms. Eve belonged to all of them; they wouldn’t let Kosan monopolize her.

“I want to be with Ms. Eve too!”

“Me too!”

“No way! Ms. Eve is mine!” Kosan shouted back, her voice laced with panic.

“You don’t get to decide that! I’m sleeping over at your dorm tonight!”

“Me too!”

“Me three!”

“And me…”

Ms. Eve paused outside the classroom, hearing the commotion within.

‘What a lively bunch,’ she thought to herself, a fond smile touching her lips.

Chapter 6: A Cigarette and a Promise

The ‘veteran’ drove smoothly and swiftly, but Aya, sitting in the passenger seat, was not pleased.

“Senior, slow down! You’ll run a red light!”

The man glanced at the rearview mirror. Bubbles, her face a mixture of anxiety and curiosity, sat quietly in the backseat.

‘My driving skills are impeccable after all these years.’ He thought to himself, but nonetheless, he eased off the accelerator.

“Bubbles, you have to listen to your teachers at school, okay?”

“Okay, Aya.”

“Don’t fight with your classmates. Make lots of friends.”

“Okay!”

“You’re still growing, so no picky eating.”

“Okay! Bubbles is a good girl, Bubble never picky eats.”

“And pay attention in class…”

Bubbles’s heart warmed as she listened to Aya’s endless list of reminders.

“Bubbles will study hard and make her teachers proud!” She declared resolutely.

No matter how slow the journey, there was always an end.

“We’re here.”

The car rolled to a stop. Aya studied the imposing building before them, “Private Cherry Blossom Elementary School,” her expression grim.

Located far from the city center, the school was secluded and eerily quiet. Surrounded by towering walls, with burly, watchful guards stationed at regular intervals, it felt less like an educational institution and more like…

“This is private property. State your business.” A stern-looking man approached them, his eyes wary.

Aya noticed the gun holstered at his hip and frowned as she presented their documents.

“We’re here to enroll this child.”

The ‘veteran’ flashed a friendly smile, offering a cigarette. “Care for one, comrade?”

The man remained impassive. He took the documents with one hand and began examining them carefully.

Unfazed by the cold shoulder, the ‘veteran’ put the cigarette in his mouth and was about to light it when Aya nudged him discreetly.

“?”

He followed her gaze and saw the little girl watching them with wide, curious eyes.

‘Can’t corrupt the youth.’ He sighed inwardly, reluctantly putting away the cigarette.

“You have twenty minutes. Leave the premises after that.” The man said curtly after verifying their documents, stepping aside to let them through.

“Come on, Bubbles.”

Aya took the little girl’s hand and led her through the gates, her heart heavy with apprehension.

“Ms. Eve is a good teacher.” The man’s voice called out as they passed him.

The ‘veteran’ paused, turning back to see the man’s usual stoic expression, as if he hadn’t spoken at all.

“Thanks, comrade.” The ‘veteran’ gave him a nod and hurried after Aya and Bubbles.

“Welcome to Private Cherry Blossom Elementary School.”

Bubbles, with her yellow safety helmet, red backpack, and a small bag of snacks, froze.

Standing before them, in front of the school building, was a tall, elegant woman with long, wine-red hair. A warm smile graced her lips.

“Children, this is your new classmate. Let’s give her a big round of applause.”

“Welcome, welcome!”

“A warm welcome!”

“Clap, clap, clap!”

A chorus of small voices rang out as the children behind the woman clapped enthusiastically, their eyes filled with curiosity as they looked at Bubbles.

Aya hadn’t expected such a reception. She had imagined this place to be much more… sterile, perhaps.

The ‘veteran’ studied the young woman before them. Tall, with cascading auburn hair and kind eyes, she exuded an aura of warmth and compassion.

“And you are?”

“I’m Eve. I’ll be this child’s homeroom teacher.”

After shaking hands with both adults, Eve crouched down to Bubble’s level, her eyes meeting the little girl’s. “Won’t you introduce yourself, dear?”

Aya let go of Bubbles’s hand and gave her a gentle nudge. “Go on.”

Flushing bright red, Bubbles shuffled over to the group of children. She opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out.

Finally, she stammered, “H-hello everyone.”

“I’m Bubbles!”

“The snacks… they’re… they’re for everyone!”

She held up the plastic bag. “Here, take some!”

A moment of silence, then a wave of excited shouts.

“Ooh!”

“Jelly! And milk candy!”

“Look, croissants!”

“I want spicy strips!”

“…”

The contents of the bag disappeared in a flash. Seeing their happy faces, Bubbles couldn’t help but grin.

“What a sweet child.”

Eve’s smile widened. “Thank you both for your thoughtfulness.”

“It’s no problem at all.”

Aya hesitated for a moment, then exchanged a look with the ‘veteran.’

Understanding her silent cue, the man stepped forward, positioning himself between the women and the children.

Eve looked at him in surprise, but before she could speak, Aya pressed a red envelope into her hand.

“Thank you for all your hard work, Ms. Eve. A small token of our appreciation. Please take care of Bubbles…”

Before Aya could finish, Eve clasped her hand.

“Ms. Eve?”

Aya stared at her, bewildered.

“Are you Bubbles’s older sister?” Eve asked, her expression serious.

“No.”

“Her mother, then?”

“That’s… I’m not old enough to be her mother.” Aya chuckled awkwardly.

“A relative, perhaps?” Eve pressed on.

“No, Bubbles and I aren’t related.”

“In fact, we haven’t even known each other for a fortnight.”

“Oh?” Eve nodded slowly. “Then why are you so concerned for her, Ms. Aya?”

“…”

Silence hung in the air for a moment before Aya finally spoke. “Bubbles is a good kid. That’s all the reason I need.”

“I hope you find my answer satisfactory, Ms. Eve.”

The ‘veteran,’ sensing the sudden shift in Aya’s tone, knew his partner’s temper was about to flare. He was about to intervene when Eve smiled again, reaching out with her other hand to clasp Aya’s between hers.

“Please, trust me.”

Her voice was sincere, filled with warmth. “I share your sentiments, Ms. Aya.”

“This child has suffered enough.”

“I cannot change the past, but I can promise you this…”

“From this day forward, I will care for Bubbles as my own.”

“I will do everything in my power to ensure her well-being and help her grow.”

“Believe me, she will rejoin society as a healthy, happy young woman one day.”

Eve’s words, spoken with unwavering conviction, resonated deeply with both Aya and the ‘veteran.’

Exchanging a look with her partner, Aya felt a weight lift from her heart.

She was suddenly embarrassed by her earlier suspicion.

Returning Eve’s smile, Aya squeezed her hand gently.

“Ms. Eve…”

“Bubbles, you’re in good hands now.”