The Dragon Awakens Chapter 1 Childhood Days

Eight years ago

Kouh Park

The afternoon sun bathed Kouh Park in a warm yellow hue, filtering through the trees and casting long shadows over the playground. The air carried the faint sound of laughter, the thuds of soccer balls being kicked, and the cheerful squeaks of swings in motion. Yet, amidst all the life and noise, one swing remained nearly still, swaying only slightly in the gentle breeze.

A brown-haired boy, no older than nine, sat there quietly, his hands gripping the cold chains loosely. His eyes, normally full of mischief and energy, were dull and heavy with sadness. Issei Hyoudou wasn’t usually the quiet type. He liked to play, to run, to make noise or talk about Oppai. But today was different.

His best friend, Irina—or “Iri-kun,” as he fondly called him, had moved to England that very morning. He had waved until the car disappeared from sight, but now that the day was drawing to a close, reality finally began to sink in. 

‘He’s really gone…’

He looked toward the other kids playing soccer in the park. Normally, he’d have joined without hesitation, cheering, shouting, tripping over his own feet and laughing about it. But watching them now only made his chest ache. It wasn’t that he didn’t like soccer anymore; it was that playing without him just felt… empty.

He kicked at the dirt beneath his shoes, muttering to himself. “I wonder if we’ll ever meet again?” His small voice got lost in the air. 

Issei stared at the ground, trying not to let the sting in his eyes turn into tears. He wanted to be strong. After all, he’d promised Irina they’d both become heroes someday—like in the shows they used to watch together. Heroes didn’t cry, right?

Just then, the faint sound of crying reached his ears. It was soft at first, but unmistakable—the kind of sound that made his heart tighten. It came from somewhere near the park’s sandbox, hidden behind the slide.

Issei froze, his sadness briefly replaced by curiosity and concern. ‘Someone’s crying…?’

He remembered Irina’s last words before she left: “Heroes always help people, Ise!”

A spark of determination returned to his young eyes. He slid off the swing, landing with a small thud, and brushed the dirt off his shorts. 

“Right,” Issei murmured under his breath, “A hero doesn’t ignore a cry for help.”

It had taken him almost an hour of walking around the park,checking behind slides, near the benches, even around the soccer field. But he refused to give up. Irina’s words echoed in his mind: “Heroes never ignore someone in trouble, Ise!”

So he kept looking. Because heroes didn’t stop until they found the person who needed help.

Finally, as he passed a large oak tree near the quieter side of the park, he heard it—a soft, muffled sob. He slowed his steps and peeked behind the trunk.

What he saw made his chest tighten.

There, sitting in the dirt with her knees pulled close to her chest, was a little girl around his age, maybe eight. Her long hair was a mix of black and dark pink, glimmering faintly under the sunset. Her bangs framed her small, tear-streaked face, and when she looked up, her eyes, dark pink, almost like rose petals, met his in surprise.

For a second, she froze, startled by his sudden appearance.

“Hey,” Issei said softly, crouching down a bit so he didn’t tower over her. “Why are you crying?”

The girl sniffled, her voice trembling. “B-Because… I don’t have any friends…” She lowered her gaze again, clutching the hem of her skirt. “And the other kids said I look weird… so they don’t want to play with me.”

Issei blinked. “Weird? Why would they say that?” She didn’t answer, just rubbed her eyes with her sleeve, shoulders shaking.

Issei frowned. That’s not fair. His small fists clenched at his sides, anger bubbling up in his chest. He didn’t know what kind of “weird” those kids were talking about, but even if she was different, so what? That didn’t mean she deserved to be alone.

“That’s dumb!” He said suddenly, his voice filled with childlike conviction. “You don’t look weird at all!”

The girl blinked, eyes wide with disbelief. “Really?” She whispered.

“Really!” Issei nodded with a big smile. “And if those kids don’t want to be your friends, that’s their loss—’cause I’ll be your friend instead!”

Her eyes shimmered, caught between hope and disbelief. “You… you will?”

“Of course!” He said proudly, puffing out his chest. “From now on I’m your friend. My name’s Issei Hyoudou!”

The girl stared at him for a long moment, as if trying to make sure he wasn’t joking. But when she saw the bright, honest grin on his face, something warm bloomed in her chest for the first time that day. Slowly, shyly, she smiled back.

“M-My name is Zekka… Zekka Miyamoto,” She said, wiping the last of her tears.

“Nice to meet you, Zekka!” Issei said, extending his hand toward her. “C’mon—wanna play?”

Her breath caught for a second as she stared at his outstretched hand. It looked warm, steady… kind. She hesitated, but only for a moment. Then, with a small nod, she reached out and took it.

The moment their hands touched, Issei’s smile grew wider. “Let’s go!” He laughed, pulling her gently toward the playground.

Zekka barely had time to react before she found herself running alongside him, her earlier sadness melting away into laughter. The wind rushed through her hair, carrying the sound of her giggles. It had been so long since she’d felt this happy.

“Hey, Issei!” She called out between breaths. “Why did you help me?”

He looked back at her with that same bright grin, his brown eyes shining like sunlight. “Because,” he said with absolute certainty, “a hero always helps someone in need!”

Zekka slowed for a moment, those words echoing in her mind. A hero?

She’d never heard anyone say it like that before—so sure, so genuine. To her, it sounded like the most amazing thing in the world.

Her small hand tightened around his as they ran together. “Then… do you think I could be a hero too?”

Issei glanced at her, surprised by the question, then smiled warmly. “Of course you can! Anyone can be a hero if they really want to!”

The two of them reached the playground, laughter mixing with the fading light of sunset. For the first time, Zekka didn’t feel lonely.

And as Issei helped her climb up the slide and jump down, their laughter echoing through the park, she thought to herself. ’Maybe meeting him was the best thing that’s ever happened to me.’

From that day forward, the boy who dreamed of being a hero and then Harem King and the girl once called “weird” became inseparable. Neither knew it then, but this moment, under the golden sky of Kouh Park, would be the beginning of a friendship that would shape both their futures.

—-------------------------------

The evening breeze brushed through the trees, carrying with it the scent of blooming sakuras and the faint hum of summer life. The cicadas’ chorus filled the air, rhythmic and steady, as the last light of day melted into warm orange tones across the quiet suburban streets of Kouh.

Two children walked side by side down the narrow sidewalk, their shadows stretching long and thin under the descending sun. 

“Your house is this way, right?” Issei asked, glancing at the girl beside him while balancing along the curb like it was a tightrope. His arms were outstretched, his tongue poking out slightly in concentration.

Zekka, her long black-and-dark-pink hair swaying with the breeze, nodded. “Yeah… Grandma said I shouldn’t stay out too late.” Her voice was soft, hesitant. “But I wanted to play a little longer.”

Issei jumped off the curb with a dramatic landing, fists on his hips and a proud grin lighting his face. “Then tomorrow we’ll play even more!”

Zekka blinked, momentarily startled by his enthusiasm before a small smile curved her lips. “You really like playing outside, don’t you?”

“Of course!” He declared confidently, puffing out his chest. “Heroes have to stay active! You can’t save anyone if you’re lazy.”

Zekka giggled, covering her mouth. “Then… let’s play every day.”

The boy froze for a moment, turning to look at her. There was a faint innocence in her tone, something so sincere it made his heart skip, not that he really understood why. After all, to a nine-year-old boy, words like that were a promise carved into the sky.

“Deal!” Issei said with a wide grin, sticking out his hand for a shake. Zekka hesitated only for a moment before placing her small hand in his. His grip was warm and firm—hero-like, she thought.

They continued their walk until they reached a modest traditional house tucked at the corner of a quiet street. The garden was full of blooming flowers, azaleas, marigolds, and a few small sunflowers that leaned lazily toward the fading light. A woman knelt among them, humming softly as she plucked away wilted leaves.

She wasn’t old, not like any grandmother should have been. The woman’s dark hair was tied neatly in a bun, and she wore a pale lavender kimono that seemed to ripple like silk in the wind. Her features were gentle, sharp yet soft, carrying both elegance and warmth.

When she noticed them approaching, she stood gracefully and smiled. “Ah, Zekka-chan! You brought a friend?”

Zekka nodded quickly, stepping closer with a little spark of pride. “Yes! This is Issei. He helped me when I was sad.”

Issei bowed deeply, his voice filled with polite earnestness. “Nice to meet you, ma’am!”

The woman chuckled lightly, her sleeve hiding a soft laugh. “So polite. Thank you for being kind to my granddaughter.” She turned her eyes toward Zekka, who shuffled shyly beside him. “He seems like a good boy.”

Zekka blushed, the faint pink of her eyes glinting as she smiled. “He is.”

The woman’s expression softened even further. “Then I’ll have to thank you properly one day, Issei-kun.”

“Oh! You don’t have to,” He said, waving his hands nervously. “I just… couldn’t ignore someone crying. Heroes never do!”

The woman tilted her head, amused. “A hero, hmm? That’s quite admirable for someone your age.”

Zekka’s lips twitched into a tiny grin as she looked up at him. “He really means it, Grandma. He says he’s going to be one someday.”

“Well then,” The woman said warmly, folding her hands together, “the world could certainly use more boys like you.”

Issei scratched his cheek, grinning shyly. “Hehe, thanks!”

“Would you like to come in for tea, Issei-kun?” The woman asked kindly. “You’ve walked Zekka home; it’s the least we can do.”

Issei shook his head quickly. “No, thank you! My mom said I should head back before dinner, or she’ll start worrying.”

“Very well. Then allow me to walk you to the gate.”

As they reached the small wooden gate, Zekka turned to him. The fading light caught her hair, painting it with gold and rose highlights.

“Thanks for walking me home,” she said softly.

Issei smiled. “That’s what friends do!”

Her heart skipped a beat at that word. ‘Friends.’ It made her chest feel warm and strange all at once.

“See you tomorrow?” She asked hopefully.

He nodded without hesitation. “Count on it! We’ll play all day if we can!”

“Okay!”

As he waved and began to run off down the street, the woman beside Zekka watched quietly, her expression fond but thoughtful.

“He’s a lively one,” she said with a smile. “Reminds me of someone.”

Zekka tilted her head. “Who?”

Her grandmother just smiled mysteriously. “Someone I knew a long time ago. A boy with a heart just like his.”

Zekka looked back toward the direction Issei had gone. Even though he was far away now, she could still see that messy brown hair glinting in the light of the setting sun.

A small smile spread across her lips as she whispered to herself. “I hope I can be as cool as him someday.”

And with that thought—simple and pure—she turned back toward her home.

—---------------------------------------

A few days later

A few days had passed since Zekka and Issei’s walk home from the park, and now it was her turn to visit his home. She followed him up the narrow path to a modest, cozy-looking two-story house. 

Zekka clasped her hands nervously in front of her skirt. Her heart thumped in a quiet rhythm, a mix of excitement and shyness. ‘It’s just a visit,’ she told herself. ‘I’m just meeting his parents… that’s normal, right?’

Issei, however, didn’t seem nervous at all. With his usual boundless energy, he flung open the door and stepped inside, tugging Zekka along by the hand.

“Mom! Dad! I’m home!” He shouted, his voice echoing down the hallway.

The faint clatter of pots came from the kitchen, followed by the warm, comforting aroma of curry wafting through the house.

A woman peeked out from the doorway, wiping her hands on a towel. She had soft brown hair, the same shade as Issei’s, tied in a loose ponytail, and gentle eyes that seemed to sparkle with perpetual warmth.

“Oh?” She said, smiling when her gaze landed on Zekka. “And who’s this lovely young lady?”

Zekka froze on the spot. Her fingers fidgeted with the hem of her dress, and her cheeks began to flush. “I-I’m Zekka Miyamoto…” she said timidly, bowing her head slightly. “It’s nice to meet you.”

Miki Hyoudou’s smile deepened. “Aww, how polite! What a sweet girl. Issei, you brought another girl home, huh?”

“Ehhh?” Issei blinked, confused. “Another girl? I’m pretty sure this is my first girl friend!”

The words hit Zekka like a physical blow.

Her mind blanked for a moment before turning bright red. ‘G-girlfriend!?’ she thought, covering her face with her hands as her heart practically somersaulted in her chest. “W-wait! I’m not—!”

Miki chuckled softly, holding back a knowing smile as she leaned against the doorframe. “Oh dear… she really hasn't told you yet, has she?”

From the living room, a deep chuckle followed. “He still hasn’t figured it out, huh?”

Zekka peeked through her fingers to see a tall man with slightly messy hair sitting comfortably on the couch, remote in one hand, and a kind grin spread across his face.

“Dad!” Issei grinned widely. “You’re home early!”

“Yeah,” Gorou Hyoudou said with a chuckle, scratching his cheek. “Thought I’d surprise your mom. But you should’ve warned me we’d have guests. I would’ve cleaned up the game console first!”

That immediately caught Issei’s attention. “Wait—you fixed it!?”

Gorou’s grin widened as he proudly held up a game controller like a trophy. “You bet I did. Brand new cables, cleaned the ports—good as new! Why don’t you and your friend test it out after dinner?”

Zekka blinked curiously, tilting her head. “What’s a… game console?”

Both Issei and Gorou gasped in unison.

“You don’t know!?” Issei’s voice came out like a dramatic gasp of horror. “It’s only the best thing ever!”

Gorou nodded solemnly. “Son, she’s been missing out on one of the great joys of childhood.”

Zekka looked between them, slightly overwhelmed but smiling at their shared enthusiasm. “I—I guess you’ll have to show me, then?”

Issei beamed. “You’ll love it! I’ll teach you everything!”

“Dinner first!” Miki interrupted with a playful tone, hands on her hips. “You can’t save the world on an empty stomach.”

“Aw, Mom!” Issei whined, but his stomach betrayed him with a loud growl, earning laughter from everyone in the room—including Zekka, who tried to cover her giggle but failed miserably.

—-----------------------------------------------

A few minutes later, they sat around the dinner table. The Hyoudou home was warm in a way that made Zekka feel… safe. The wooden floors creaked softly with every step, the faint hum of a TV in the background, and the family’s laughter bouncing through the cozy living room.

“Here you go, dear,” Miki said kindly, placing a bowl of steaming curry in front of Zekka. “It’s my special recipe. Tell me if you like it.”

Zekka looked down at the meal, the savory smell making her mouth water. “It looks amazing… Thank you for having me, Mrs. Hyoudou.”

“Oh, please, just call me Miki,” The woman said warmly, sitting beside her husband.

Zekka nodded politely and took her first bite—and instantly, her eyes widened. “It’s delicious!”

Miki chuckled, clearly pleased. “I’m glad! Issei loves it too, though he eats too fast to even taste it sometimes.”

“Moooom!” Issei groaned as Gorou burst out laughing. “That’s not true!”

“It’s absolutely true,” His father teased, patting his shoulder. “I’ve seen you inhale your food like a vacuum cleaner.”

Zekka giggled, covering her mouth. “He does eat really fast…”

“You too, Zekka!?” Issei cried dramatically, making everyone laugh again.

—-------------------------------------------

One year later

The days that followed settled into a rhythm, one that everyone in the neighborhood and at school came to recognize. Wherever there was Issei Hyoudou, Zekka Miyamoto was never far behind.

Every morning, the two could be seen walking down the sunlit sidewalks of Kouh, their small forms side by side, the faint echo of their chatter following them down the quiet streets. Their backpacks, almost too big for their small shoulders, bounced with every step.

“Hey, Zekka!” Issei said one morning, his voice full of energy. “Have you read the new manga chapter yet? The hero finally unlocked his fire blade! It was awesome!”

Zekka blinked, smiling faintly as she hugged her sketchbook to her chest. “I haven’t yet… you’ll have to tell me about it.”

That was all the invitation he needed. The rest of the walk became a blur of excited gestures, sound effects, and exaggerated retellings of the story. Zekka listened quietly, her dark pink eyes soft as she watched him talk with such passion.

Sometimes she’d bring small snacks wrapped in napkins—a rice ball, a cookie, or a few pieces of fruit. When she handed them to him, Issei’s eyes would light up like he’d just received treasure.

“Thanks, Zekka! You’re the best!” he said through a mouthful of rice.

She shook her head, laughing softly. “You should slow down, or you’ll choke.”

“Nah, I won’t choke!” He declared proudly, only to start coughing right after. Zekka sighed, patting his back gently as he coughed harder, which made her giggle even more.

By the time they reached the school gates, their classmates would already be used to the sight of the inseparable pair.

“There they are again,” One of the girls whispered to her friend. “They’re always together.”

Another boy smirked. “Bet they’re gonna get married when they’re older.”

Zekka froze mid-step, her cheeks turning a deep shade of pink. “W-what?!” she whispered under her breath, clutching her bag tighter.

Issei, on the other hand, tilted his head. “Married? Nah, heroes don’t have time for that! They’ve gotta save people first!”

The group burst out laughing, and Zekka felt her heart flutter and sink at the same time. ‘He really doesn’t get it…’

Still, as they walked into the classroom, she couldn’t help but smile. ‘That’s just like him,’ she thought.

—--------------------------------------------------

Lunchtime was their favorite part of the day. They’d sit beneath the tall cherry blossom tree near the edge of the schoolyard, where the breeze was cool and petals often drifted down like snowflakes.

Issei would wolf down his lunch, as always, while Zekka ate more delicately, sometimes offering him part of her meal.

“Hey, Zekka,” He said one afternoon, mouth half full, “your grandma’s rice balls are the best!”

She laughed softly. “You say that every day, Issei.”

“Because it’s true!” He held one up triumphantly before taking another big bite. “One day, I’ll ask your grandma to make me a feast!”

Zekka smiled, brushing a pink strand of hair from her face as she watched him.

—---------------------------------------

The playground became their battlefield and their world of adventure. Issei would gather a small group of friends—boys and girls alike—and declare the start of a new quest. “Okay!” He shouted from atop the jungle gym, his arm raised dramatically. “I’m the Red Dragon Knight! Zekka’s the Magic Sword Hero! We’re gonna save the school from evil!”

“Magic Sword Hero, reporting for duty!” Zekka said proudly, grabbing a twig and holding it like a wand. She planted her feet firmly on the ground, her eyes sparkling. “Then prepare yourself, villain!”

The other kids laughed, some joining as the “monsters” or “bandits,” others cheering from the sidelines.

Their imaginations painted the world in colors brighter than any reality. The sandbox became a cursed wasteland, the slide a dragon’s cave, and the jungle gym their fortress.

Zekka swung her twig dramatically, shouting, “Fire Slash!” while Issei charged forward with a cardboard shield, yelling, “Dragon Boost!”

They’d fall, tumble, and laugh until their stomachs hurt, covered in dust and joy. 

At times, other boys would tease Issei, watching him help Zekka up or share his snacks with her. “Hey, Issei! You hang out with a girl too much!” One kid jeered one afternoon. “That’s lame!”

Issei looked at them, blinking in confusion. Then, with a shrug, he replied simply, “So what? She’s my best friend! Heroes don’t care about that stuff.”

The honesty in his tone left no room for teasing. He turned back to Zekka, who was dusting herself off, a small smile playing on her lips.

Her heart fluttered at his words, though she hid it behind a shy laugh. “You always say stuff like that,” She murmured, looking away.

“’Cause it’s true,” he grinned. “We’re partners! Heroes gotta stick together.”

And with that, he offered his hand again—just like he did the day they met in the park.

Zekka took it without hesitation this time, her cheeks warm.

—--------------------------------------------

Five years later

The sun hung low over the rooftops, casting a warm orange glow across the sleepy streets of Kouh. The soft hum of cicadas filled the air, mixing with the distant sounds of children playing and the rhythmic rustle of trees swaying in the evening wind.

By the time they reached Junior High School, things had changed. Not drastically—at least not at first—but subtly, like the slow shifting of seasons. They weren’t little kids anymore. Their voices had grown, their laughter a little deeper, and their steps a little longer. But even as the years passed, one thing never changed: wherever Issei Hyoudou was, Zekka Miyamoto was never far behind.

Issei was now thirteen, already in his first year of Junior High, while Zekka, a year younger, had only just joined. Their uniforms were new. Zekka’s dark-pink hair had grown longer, now reaching just past her shoulders, while Issei’s brown hair remained stubbornly messy as always.

They walked home together that day, their shadows stretching out before them in the golden light. Issei had both of their bags slung over his shoulders, a faint sheen of sweat glistening on his forehead.

“Man,” He groaned dramatically, “math today was brutal.”

Zekka glanced at him from the corner of her eye, amusement tugging at her lips. “You say that every day.”

“Because it is every day!” He complained, adjusting the weight of their bags with an exaggerated grunt. “Why do they even make us learn this stuff? When am I ever gonna need to know how to find the slope of a triangle or whatever?”

She stifled a laugh, brushing a strand of dark-pink hair behind her ear. “Because, genius, you can’t just punch problems away, Issei.”

He blinked at her as if the idea had never occurred to him. “Can’t I?”

Zekka shot him a playful glare, one that carried no real malice. “No!”

He grinned sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck. “Guess I’ll have to rely on my partner then.”

Zekka’s steps faltered for just a moment. Partner. The word echoed in her head, making her heart skip a beat. She glanced away quickly, hoping he didn’t notice the light blush spreading across her cheeks. “Idiot…” She murmured under her breath, but a small smile betrayed her embarrassment.

He chuckled, clearly oblivious to the effect he had on her. “What was that?”

“Nothing!” she said quickly, speeding up a step.

Issei tilted his head but decided not to push it. He adjusted the straps of their bags again and followed after her, his grin never fading.

—-----------------------------------------

When they reached the familiar little street leading to Zekka’s house, the scent of blooming hydrangeas filled the air. The small, traditional home stood at the end of the lane, its front garden meticulously tended, with flowers of all colors swaying gently in the breeze.

And, as always, standing by the gate with a gentle smile was Zekka’s grandmother. Despite the years, she looked exactly the same as when Issei had first met her—young, elegant, and radiating a strange, timeless grace. Her long black hair was tied neatly with a crimson ribbon, and her eyes sparkled like polished amber.

“Welcome back, you two!” She called out, her voice warm and melodic.

Zekka smiled brightly. “We’re home, Grandma.”

Issei straightened up immediately, grinning as he waved. “Good afternoon, ma’am!”

The woman’s laughter was soft and musical. “Ah, Issei-kun, still as polite as ever. You two have grown so much… yet you’re still inseparable after all these years.”

Zekka’s cheeks turned faintly pink, and she fidgeted with the strap of her bag. “Grandma…” she muttered, her tone half-protesting, half-embarrassed.

Issei, however, grinned proudly. “Of course!”

Zekka’s grandmother chuckled again, her gaze warm and knowing as she looked between them. “Good. It’s rare to see such a bond last this long. You should treasure it.”

Issei nodded confidently. “Don’t worry, ma’am! I promised to always look out for her!”

Zekka’s eyes widened slightly at his words. ‘Always… look out for me?’

For a moment, the world seemed to slow—the rustling leaves, the soft hum of cicadas, even the orange light stretching across the street—all of it wrapped around them like a memory frozen in time.

Her grandmother smiled knowingly but said nothing more. “Dinner will be ready soon, Zekka. Don’t keep Issei-kun too long.”

“Okay,” Zekka said softly.

They waved goodbye and continued down the small stone path leading away from the house. The golden sunlight stretched between them, their shadows touching even when they didn’t.

As they walked, Zekka glanced at him quietly. He was talking about something—probably manga or video games—but she wasn’t really listening. Her eyes lingered on the small things: the way his hair caught the light, the way his smile never seemed to fade no matter how tired he was.

‘He hasn’t changed at all,’ She thought fondly. ‘Still loud, still reckless, still… him.’ But as she looked at him, she realized something had changed—something subtle but undeniable. He wasn’t just her goofy best friend anymore. Somewhere between those childhood games and shared lunches, he’d become someone she couldn’t imagine her days without.

And as the evening sun dipped below the horizon, painting the quiet street in a soft, golden glow, the two walked side by side—laughing, arguing, dreaming—completely unaware of how deeply their bond had already begun to shape who they were becoming.

—--------------------------------------

One year later

By the time Zekka Miyamoto reached fourteen and Issei Hyoudou fifteen, things had begun to change, subtle at first, then unmistakable. The space between them had grown more complicated.

Zekka’s reflection no longer matched the little girl who had once clung to a boy’s hand behind the swings at the park. Her dark-pink hair now reached her lower back, catching the light whenever she moved, and her features had softened into something older, something more refined. But what drew the most attention, unwanted attention, was her body.

Her chest, to her dismay, had developed faster than everything else. It wasn’t something she had asked for or particularly wanted. But it had become impossible to ignore when the whispers started in the hallways, when she caught people staring during class, when boys’ laughter followed her through the corridors.

At first, she tried to brush it off, to tell herself it didn’t matter. But every time she felt eyes on her, every time she overheard the word “huge” hissed under someone’s breath, a little piece of her confidence crumbled.

So that afternoon, after one particularly bad day of stares and snickers, she couldn’t take it anymore. She stomped into Issei’s backyard, her fists clenched and her face burning red with anger and humiliation.

Issei, meanwhile, was lying on the grass with his hands behind his head, staring at the clouds. His mind, as usual, was in another world—imagining heroic adventures, dragons, magic swords, and, of course, the ever-present fantasy of big-breasted heroines. He didn’t even hear her approach until her voice cut through the air like thunder.

“I hate them!”

He nearly jumped out of his skin, rolling over in surprise. “Wha—Zekka!? What’s wrong? Hate who!?”

She was standing a few feet away, red-faced, trembling with frustration. Then she pointed accusingly at herself, her voice cracking. “These!”

“...Huh?”

“These!” she repeated, gesturing wildly to her chest. “They’re huge! They get in the way, my back hurts, and everyone keeps staring at me like I’m some kind of freak!”

Issei froze mid-breath, eyes wide, mouth hanging open. His teenage brain—already prone to catastrophic malfunctions around the subject of breasts—completely short-circuited. ‘Do not look. Don’t look. Don’t—’ He looked.

Zekka noticed immediately, her blush deepening into a shade of crimson that could rival a sunset. “I-Issei!” she snapped.

“I—I wasn’t—okay, maybe I was—but it’s not what it looks like!” hHe stammered, waving his hands wildly in panic.

Her glare could have melted steel. And then, in a moment of pure, unfiltered honesty that only an idiot like Issei could manage, he blurted out, “But… they’re amazing.”

Silence. Absolute, soul-crushing silence.

Zekka’s eyes widened, her entire body stiffening as if lightning had struck her. “WHAT!?!”

Issei immediately realized his mistake, his brain kicking into overdrive as he flailed his arms in self-defense. “Wait! I didn’t mean it like that—well, maybe kinda like that—but listen!”

“LISTEN!?” She sputtered, covering her chest with both arms as if to shield herself from his words.

“I mean!” He continued desperately, tripping over his own explanation. “You shouldn’t hate yourself! You’re beautiful, Zekka! Really! I—I think your boobs are perfect!”

Zekka froze again, her anger halting mid-breath. Her heart pounded so fast she could hear it in her ears. For a long, dizzying moment, all she could do was stare at him. His face was bright red, his words awkward and clumsy—but there was something about the way he said it. Something painfully sincere.

“You… really think that?” She asked softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Issei scratched his cheek, looking away with a sheepish smile. “Yeah. You’re still Zekka. The same girl who became my friend when nobody else would. Who cares if you grew a little more in some… uh, areas?” He gave a nervous laugh. “You’re still you. And I like you just the way you are.”

Zekka blinked, her breath catching in her throat. The warmth in his voice reached her deeper than she wanted to admit. She bit her lip, fighting back the shaky smile threatening to escape. Her cheeks burned, but not from anger this time. “…Idiot,” She murmured, turning away so he wouldn’t see her expression. Her tone was soft, almost tender.

Issei blinked. “Huh? What’d I do this time?”

“Nothing,” She said quietly, hugging her arms around herself. “Just… thanks.”

He tilted his head, confused but smiling nonetheless. “Anytime, partner.”

Her heart fluttered again at that word—partner.

As the sun sank fully below the horizon, the golden light fading into a soft twilight, Zekka found herself smiling despite everything. The heavy, uncomfortable feelings she’d carried all day seemed to melt away, replaced by a warmth she didn’t quite understand.

—--------------------------------------

That night, she lay in bed hugging her pillow, staring up at the ceiling.

‘He thinks I’m beautiful…’ Her face grew hot just remembering it.

She rolled onto her side, burying her face in the pillow to hide the grin spreading across her lips. Her heart felt lighter, faster—fluttering like it never had before. And as she finally drifted to sleep, one thought echoed in her mind—soft, sweet, and impossible to ignore.

‘Maybe… I don’t hate them anymore.’

—-------------------------------------------------

One year later

By the time Zekka turned fifteen, the air between her and Issei had changed—quietly, slowly. The seasons had rolled by, and with them, their childhood innocence had started to melt into something neither of them could quite name.

For Zekka, it was becoming impossible to deny.

She’d tried to convince herself it was just admiration. That she only liked Issei because he was kind, because he was funny, because he’d always been there since the very beginning. But every time he smiled at her, really smiled, that warm, unguarded smile that reached his eyes, made her heart betrayed her. It fluttered, skipped, and raced all at once, leaving her light-headed and confused. It wasn’t admiration anymore. It was love and it was driving her crazy.

—-------------------------------------------------

Zekka started doing little things.

She brought extra snacks in her bento, pretending it was no big deal when she handed them to him. “I made too much, so you can have some,” She’d say with feigned casualness.

Issei, of course, would beam like he’d just won the lottery. “Seriously!? Thanks, Zekka! You’re a lifesaver!” The way his face lit up made her cheeks burn every single time.

She helped him study after school—though “helping” was generous. He always got distracted halfway through, doodling boobs in his notebook. “Issei, you can’t draw during math practice!” She scolded one afternoon.

“But this boobs represents math!” He argued. 

She groaned, pressing her palm to her forehead. “You’re hopeless.” And yet, when he looked at her and laughed, she couldn’t help smiling too.

She even started wearing her hair differently—letting it down on some days, tying it back in a pony tail because once, months ago, Issei had casually mentioned, “Your hair looks really pretty when the sun hits it.”

He’d said it absentmindedly. But she’d remembered every word.

But for every little effort she made, Issei’s dense nature found a way to turn it into chaos.

One late afternoon, they were walking home together under a sky streaked with orange and purple. The breeze was soft, carrying the scent of wisteria from a nearby garden. Zekka’s heart was pounding so hard she thought he might hear it.

She had spent the whole day mustering the courage, telling herself. ‘I’ll say it today. I have to.’ When they reached the quiet street that led to her house, she took a deep breath. “Issei, I… I think I like—”

“Hey, Zekka!” He suddenly interrupted, pointing toward the sky. “Look at that bird! It’s flying funny!”

Her brain screeched to a halt. She followed his finger just in time to see a pigeon doing a strange, lopsided glide through the air. “Wh—Issei!” she sputtered, stomping her foot. “You can’t just interrupt someone like that!”

“What? But it’s flying weird! Look!”

Zekka groaned and resisted the very strong urge to throw her shoe at him. “You’re unbelievable!”

He blinked, confused. “Did I say something wrong?”

She turned away, cheeks puffed out, muttering under her breath. “Everything.”

—-----------------------------

Another day, during lunch beneath a cherry blossom tree, she decided to be a little bolder.

“Hey, Issei?” she asked, poking at her rice with her chopsticks.

He looked up mid-bite, cheeks full of food. “Hmm?”

“Do you think I’m… cute?” She asked softly, not daring to look him in the eye.

He blinked once, twice, then swallowed. “Yeah, you’re super cute! Like a puppy!”

Her eyes twitched. “...A puppy?”

“Yeah!” he said, grinning proudly. “You’ve got those big eyes, and when you pout, you look just like one!”

She wanted to die. Or throw her lunch at him. Maybe both.

“Zekka? Did I do something?” He asked as she started to ignore him.

She didn’t answer.

He slumped in his seat, sighing. “Man… girls are confusing.”

—---------------------------------

Still, despite the endless misunderstandings, she couldn’t stop herself.

Every laugh they shared, every conversation under the afternoon sun, every ridiculous thing he said—it only made her love him more. There was something about him, something untouchably honest in the way he lived. He didn’t try to be cool or charming; he was just… himself. Clumsy, genuine, and warm. And that warmth drew her in like sunlight.

Sometimes, she wondered if he’d ever feel the same way.

But she didn’t realize that, in his own oblivious way, he already did.

When Zekka wasn’t around, Issei noticed. He couldn’t focus in class, found the lunches dull, and the walks home strangely quiet. He’d tell himself it was just a habit, that he was used to her being around, but the truth tugged at the edge of his thoughts.

One afternoon, lying on his bed, staring at the ceiling, he muttered to himself, “Weird. It’s too quiet when she’s not here.”

He didn’t think much of it then. But his hand drifted over the small bracelet she’d given him as a lucky charm months ago, a simple red string she’d braided herself. He still wore it every day.

A small smile tugged at his lips. ‘Guess I really am used to her… he thought. Wouldn’t feel right without her.’

Outside, the wind blew softly through the trees, rustling the curtains beside his bed.

Neither of them knew it yet, but they were already standing on the edge of something new, something deeper than friendship, stronger than they could yet understand.

For Zekka, it was love she couldn’t hide. For Issei, it was love he didn’t recognize. But for both of them, it was only just beginning.

—------------------------------------------------------------------------

The sun had already begun its slow descent, bathing Kouh Park in the soft glow of twilight. The air was cool, the wind gentle, carrying the scent of grass and faint traces of sakura that still clung to the trees. Cicadas sang in the distance, their rhythmic chorus filling the silence between heartbeats.

Two figures sat side by side on the swings, the same ones they had played on years ago as children. The chains creaked softly with each slow sway, and the golden-red light of the setting sun painted their faces in warm hues.

Zekka rocked gently, her dark-pink hair shifting with the breeze. Her school uniform had been traded for casual clothes—a simple white blouse and a blue skirt—but the faint blush on her cheeks was the same one she used to have whenever she was around him.

Beside her, Issei leaned back on his swing, the soles of his shoes scraping the dirt. He looked almost at peace, his brown eyes distant as he watched the horizon.

For a while, neither spoke. The only sound was the whisper of wind through the leaves and the faint rhythmic squeak of the swings.

“Hey, Issei…” Zekka’s voice broke the quiet at last, soft and uncertain.

He glanced her way, one brow raised. “Yeah?”

“Do you ever think about the future?” She asked, her eyes focused on the glowing sunset rather than him.

He blinked, tilting his head thoughtfully. “Hmm? You mean like… when I become the Harem King?”

Zekka’s shoulders slumped, and she let out a long groan. “I was trying to be serious, you idiot!”

Issei laughed sheepishly, scratching the back of his head. “Sorry, sorry. Couldn’t resist.”

She gave him a look that was half-annoyed, half-affectionate. “You really haven’t changed at all.”

“Hey, I’ve matured!” He said defensively, puffing out his chest. “I think about deep stuff sometimes.”

“Oh really?” she said with mock surprise. “Like what?”

He leaned back, smiling faintly. “Well… sometimes I think about what I’m gonna do after all this. You know—after school, after everything. But mostly…” He paused, eyes softening as he looked at the sky. “Mostly, I just want to keep my promise.”

Zekka turned toward him, curiosity flickering in her gaze. “Promise?”

“Yeah, to you and someone else." His voice grew quieter, but it carried that familiar warmth—the same spark that had been there since they were kids. “To be a hero. Remember? Heroes help people who cry. That’s what started all this, right?”

He smiled, a little nostalgic, a little proud. Then, inevitably, he ruined it. “Of course, that’ll be after I become Harem King.”

Zekka’s mouth fell open. “You—ugh! You were so close to sounding mature!”

Issei burst out laughing, gripping the swing chains as he doubled over. “Hahaha! Sorry! I couldn’t help it!”

She huffed, crossing her arms with an exaggerated pout. “You’re hopeless.”

“Hey,” He said between chuckles, “at least I’m consistent.”

Zekka sighed, shaking her head, but the corners of her lips curved upward despite her irritation. She turned her gaze back to the horizon, the colors deepening into crimson and violet. The park around them was empty now—just the two of them, sitting beneath a sky that seemed endless.

Her eyes softened as memories resurfaced. The little boy who once found her crying behind a tree. The boy who called himself a hero, who said she wasn’t weird, who extended his hand and pulled her into his world.

He was taller now, older, but that same reckless light in his eyes hadn’t faded.

“…Then I guess I’ll keep helping you too,” She said suddenly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Issei blinked, surprised. “Eh? Why?”

She looked down at her shoes, gently kicking the dirt beneath her swing. “Because heroes need someone to keep them from being stupid.”

For a second, he was silent. Then he laughed—a warm, genuine sound that carried through the cool evening air.

“Guess I can’t argue with that,” He said, smiling. “You’ve been doing that for years already.”

Zekka smiled too, though she didn’t look at him. Her heart felt tight and light all at once, like it was glowing and aching at the same time. The golden light of the sunset caught her hair, and for a fleeting moment, she looked ethereal.

Issei watched her quietly, the teasing grin fading from his lips. He didn’t really understand why, but seeing her like that—smiling softly, her eyes reflecting the fading sun—made his chest feel strange.

He looked away quickly, pretending to focus on the sky. “You’re weird sometimes, you know that?”

Zekka laughed lightly. “It takes one to know one.”

They sat there until the sun finally dipped below the horizon, leaving the world bathed in a dusky glow. And between the lingering warmth of childhood and the quiet stirrings of something more, the two of them swayed in perfect rhythm—side by side, just as they always had.

Finally done. Tell me what you think and tell me if I made any mistakes. This commission was brought to you by DillianFanfic. So be sure to thank him.