Akira and Aaron approached the guild's registration counter. A stern-looking woman sat behind it, her eyes scanning the duo intently.
"We'd like to register," Akira stated confidently, her voice dripping with her usual ojou-sama grace.
"Very well," the woman replied, her fingers tapping at a series of runes on the table. A holographic screen sprung to life, displaying a list of classes.
Akira began to explain, "These are the classes you can choose from:
Blade Dancer: Experts in both dance and combat, they use agile movements to confuse enemies.Mystic Seer: Harnessing the power of the cosmos, they predict future events and manipulate time.Feral Summoner: Calling forth wild beasts and mythical creatures to aid in battle.Elemental Alchemist: Masters of elemental forces, they conjure fire, water, wind, and earth to their will.Shadow Stalker: Stealthy assassins, they strike from the shadows, using darkness as their ally.Celestial Guardian: Holy warriors blessed by the stars, they provide protection and healing.Eldritch Enchanter: Weaving spells of illusion and control, they can both beguile and dominate foes.
You'll need to choose a class based on your aptitude and interests," Akira finished, her eyes scanning the list thoughtfully.
Aaron paused before the list of classes, each name suggesting a world of potential, power, and strategy. His recent experiences with Akira and the unique personalities of the club members echoed in his thoughts, urging him to reflect on his strengths and vulnerabilities.
The Mystic Seer class held allure with its promise of foresight and the ability to predict the moves of adversaries, invaluable skills especially considering his dynamic interactions with Akira. The Shadow Stalker too seemed promising, allowing him to move with stealth and stay in the shadows, observing and acting without being in the spotlight.
However, as his mind replayed the recent altercation with Akira, the need for self-assured protection and defense became paramount. He thought of the moments when he felt vulnerable and wished for a protective shield, a barrier against the unpredictable challenges that the universe of anime worlds might throw his way.
Drawing a deep breath, he made his decision. "I choose the Celestial Guardian," Aaron stated firmly. "While foresight and stealth have their merits, right now I feel the need to fortify myself, to have an impenetrable shield, both for my defense and those I care about."
Akira gave a nod, a glint of respect evident in her eyes. "A wise choice," she commented, "Especially considering what lies ahead."
Akira gracefully approached the class list, her eyes skimming through the options. Without much hesitation, she pointed to the Shadow Stalker. "This is my choice," she declared.
With a fluid motion, she then moved into a stance that highlighted her stealth and agility. The room dimmed for a moment, and as she moved, her form became almost indistinct, like a shadow melting into the night. With each move, she seemed to blend seamlessly with the surroundings, a master of evasion and ambush.
As Akira gracefully moved out of her demonstration, her eyes held a predatory gleam. "Sometimes," she began in a chilling whisper, "it's not about the hunt, but the thrill of watching the prey squirm before the final strike." She stepped closer to Aaron, her tone turning even colder. "And believe me, it's always more fun when they don't see it coming."
Aaron gulped audibly, feeling a mix of admiration and fear. "Girls...," he began, a mischievous glint in his eye, "...are undeniably violent and crazy." He said, his voice dropping to a sultrier tone as he finished, "But it's... strangely arousing."
Akira leaned in closer, her lips barely inches away from Aaron's ear. With a mischievous glint in her eyes, she playfully whispered, "Sweetie A-Aron," followed by a melodious giggle that seemed out of place given her previous demeanor.
He pulled back slightly, raising an eyebrow. "Sweetie A-Aron? Really? That's the best you've got?"
With a mock pout and feigned disappointment, Akira replied, "Very well. How about... Master?"
A slow, teasing grin spread across Aaron's face. "Now that," he said, his voice dripping with a mix of amusement and mischief, "I can get behind." He tried to look stern, but the twinkle in his eyes betrayed his guilty pleasure.
As they strolled through the guild, Aaron reveled in the undeniable allure Akira radiated, drawing appreciative glances and outright stares from nearly every man they passed. Whispers filled the air and eyes darted enviously in his direction.
Feeling a boost to his ego, Aaron mused, "Being by the side of the guild's belle definitely has its perks. All these guys, probably wishing they were in my shoes right now."
Catching his smug expression, Akira teased, "Someone's enjoying this a little too much."
Basking in his momentary narcissism, he replied, "Well, with your looks and my... proximity to your looks, how could they not be envious?"
Before they could proceed, a dashing young man stepped forward, desperation evident in his stance. "Akira! How about gracing a guy like me with a date? I promise you won't regret it."
Akira, with an amused smile, looked towards Aaron, "It seems your 'proximity' has competition, 'Master'."
Raising an eyebrow, Aaron responded in a tone dripping with confidence, "Akira, after all we've been through, you really think you could just walk away? If you do decide to leave, remember that there are plenty of other women out there. It's your choice, but either way, I'll be just fine."
Akira smirked, the playfulness evident in her eyes, "Oh, so confident, 'Master'. You sure know how to keep things interesting."
The man's gaze never wavered from Akira, his desperation evident. "I'll do anything for you! I'll conquer the world if that's what it takes to win your heart."
Aaron chuckled lightly, leaning close to Akira and whispering loud enough for the man to hear, "Your move, Akira. But remember, if you even think of leaving, I'm pretty sure Kei and the others won't be too happy. They have a certain... attachment to me."
Akira glanced at the persistent man with a mix of amusement and mild annoyance. Her voice was calm, but there was a sharp edge to her words.
"I must commend your persistence. It's quite... charming, in its own way."
"However, let me make myself perfectly clear. I am not, nor will I ever be, interested."
"Do you always chase after things that are clearly not meant for you?"
"Perhaps if you invested this much energy into something productive, you'd have better luck."
"Your offers and gifts mean nothing to me. Empty gestures from an empty heart."
"If it's a challenge you're seeking, I'd suggest looking elsewhere. I'm far out of your league."
"Have you ever thought of trying a little humility? It might suit you better than desperation."
"You say you'll treat me like a queen, but you don't even treat me with basic respect."
"This isn't a game. My feelings aren't prizes to be won."
"I'm sure there are plenty of women out there who'd fall for your... charms. I'm just not one of them."
"Every word you utter pushes me further away. Take a hint."
"It's fascinating how someone can be so persistent and yet so completely oblivious."
"Perhaps if you actually listened, instead of just hearing what you want, you'd understand."
"Your determination is admirable, but woefully misplaced."
"You should focus on someone who reciprocates your feelings, instead of wasting time on lost causes."
"If you truly respect me, as you claim, then respect my wishes and leave."
"Chasing shadows will get you nowhere. Move on."
"Perhaps in another lifetime, in another universe, but not here and not now."
"It's not me you're in love with. It's the idea of me, an illusion."
"For both our sakes, find someone who truly desires your attention."
With that, Akira turned on her heel, leaving the man standing there, processing her blunt words.
Aaron, eyebrows raised, took a moment to process the entire exchange. He then turned to Akira and said, "You know, that was both extremely terrifying and oddly captivating. I've never seen someone torn down with such... elegance." He chuckled, but there was a hint of awe in his voice. "There's something about that assertiveness that's both alluring and fearsome."
Before they could move on, the desperate man, his ego utterly crushed, took his plea to an unexpected extreme. "Please, Lady Akira! If not your heart, then at least grant me the honor of being beneath your feet. Step on me, humiliate me. It's the only way I can atone for my insolence!"
Aaron, unable to hold back, commented with a sly grin, "You certainly have a way of drawing out the most... unique desires from people, don't you, Akira?"
The man, seemingly more encouraged by Aaron's comment, turned back to Akira, desperation evident in his eyes, "Please, Lady Akira, if it pleases a divine goddess like you, grant me the torment of feeling your wrath on my... on my balls. I promise I won't ever bother you again if you do!"
Akira, looking composed again, gracefully stepped back, her gaze coolly settling on the man. "Sir, even if I were inclined to fulfill such... unique requests," she began, her voice dripping with regal detachment, "my affections and actions are exclusively reserved for Aaron now. I only offer pleasure, pain, or any other service under his express permission."
Akira glanced at Aaron, a sly smile playing on her lips. "Since I've chosen to belong to him," she clarified, emphasizing the choice she made.
Aaron: "Wait, so you're saying you'd only... engage with someone if I say so? That's... a bit intense, isn't it?"
Akira, looking down at the desperate man and then back to Aaron: "Exactly. My choice, my rules. And right now, my choice is to belong to you, and you alone. Do you understand?"
Desperate Man, looking up at Aaron with pleading eyes: "Please, just give her the permission. Just once."
Aaron, smirking slightly: "It's not that simple. Why should I let you have even a moment with her?"
Akira, interjecting with a teasing tone: "Oh, Aaron, you sound almost jealous. But remember, the decision is now yours."
Desperate Man, almost in tears: "Please, I'll do anything."
Aaron, raising an eyebrow: "Do you really want to inflict pain on him, Akira? Or is this just some twisted game you're playing?"
Akira, with a sly smile: "To be honest, there's a certain thrill in having control, especially over someone so desperate. But my true desire? It's only to please you."
Aaron, chuckling: "Well, then. As entertaining as this is, I'd rather have your focus on me and not on some desperate guy begging at your feet."
Aaron, teasingly: "Would you rather want to step on me, Akira? Is that what you're implying?"
Akira, with a playful smirk: "Oh, Aaron, tempting as that sounds, I only act on such desires if it's mutual. And I have a feeling you might just enjoy it a bit too much."
Aaron, grinning: "You know, sometimes I can't tell if you're threatening me or flirting with me. Either way, it's dangerously enticing."
Aaron, with a determined look: "As much as I might want it, I should be the one in command. Can you, just for once, stop being so nice to everyone else?"
Akira, tilting her head: "But how would I maintain my ojou charm if I'm not elegantly kind?"
Aaron, smirking: "Sometimes, being a little possessive can have its own allure. Ever thought of giving it a try?"
Akira, with a playful glint in her eyes: "Well, perhaps if someone used a certain... asset of theirs to keep me in line, I might be less inclined to be so gracious to others."
Aaron raised an eyebrow, a teasing grin forming: "Are you suggesting what I think you're suggesting?"
The man, clearly in the throes of desperation and humiliation, began to rant, raising an eyebrow or two from the surrounding guild members.
"Ugh, men like me are just pitiful creatures, aren't we? Here I am, kneeling and groveling at the feet of a goddess while she nonchalantly dismisses me. Beautiful, strong women like Akira... they just hold so much power over us. Their charm, their grace, the allure of their beauty; it's like they have this magnetic field that just draws us in and keeps us weak and submissive."
He sighed dramatically, "Look at me! I'm nothing but a worm compared to them. How could I ever have thought I stood a chance against such divine beauty? Women like Akira... they're just on a whole different level."
A few of the nearby members smirked, while others looked away, clearly uncomfortable with his self-degradation. But the man seemed not to notice or care, lost in his own world of masochistic lamentation.