Special Alice (Gakuen Alice / Alice Academy FF)

SA 4 - Pitiful

{Misaki}

The day had passed, and Mikan continued to work hard, despite facing mockery and laughter from other students because of her No Star rank. I couldn't help but feel sympathetic, but I knew that using my water Alice to silence them wasn't the right approach – Mikan would undoubtedly prevent me from doing so.

Yesterday, we visited Mikan's room, which turned out to be a rundown and dusty attic. It was far from ideal, and I could see the surprise in Mikan's eyes. But it was good enough for her to get a proper rest at night.

Currently, I was having breakfast with Inchou, as Hotaru and Mikan had yet to arrive. They were probably still sleeping, given their penchant for staying up late.

During our meal, Inchou's curiosity got the better of him. " Misa-chan! I am wondering.." He seemed to expect my Alice to be like Natsume's due to my reddish hair and eyes, which puzzled me. I contemplated his question for a moment before replying.

"Is it rare for Alice users to have more than one Alice? I'm not sure if I have more," I asked, taking another bite of my food. Inchou nodded, affirming that it was indeed uncommon for students to possess multiple Alices. Even if he did ask, this information would be a disadvantage for them if they were to find out. My mother said that I should hide such confidential information, or I'll be targeted by the people here.

We finished our breakfast and decided to head to the academy together. Upon our arrival, we went directly to our classroom, where we found Natsume and Ruka-pyon already present. Inchou took his seat, and I approached Ruka-pyon.

"Good morning," I greeted him, and he responded with a slight smile.

" Morning." Ruka-pyon moved over to make room for me to sit beside him. His friendly gesture was heartwarming and contrasted with the anticipation that Natsume, had he been in Ruka-pyon's place, might not have done the same.

Natsume was immersed in his manga, as usual. Turning my attention back to Ruka-pyon, I decided to ask him about something that had been on my mind.

"Ruka-pyon, can I ask you something?" I inquired, making him slightly flustered. 

" S-sure, what is i-it?" He agreed, and I couldn't help but laugh at his reaction.

"Why don't you and Natsume join everyone for breakfast? I rarely see you both there. You usually show up at dinner," I asked, genuinely curious. They consistently arrive late, and I wonder why they avoid breakfast.

" Ah,we always eat breakfast, its just that we didn't want to be in a crowded environment and we eat earlier than others." Ruka-pyon explained. His explanation seemed reasonable, and his calm demeanor, coupled with his shy smile, made it easy to converse with him.

While we talked, I took a peeled carrot from my bag. Misaki sensei had given it to me yesterday when I requested one to snack on while reviewing for our lessons hoping it'll be good for the memory and whatnot. Holding the carrot on my hand, Ruka-pyon's rabbit took an interest in it. The adorable rabbit came over and sniffed the carrot.

" A-ah sorry, its just that, I think he became distracted because of your carrot." Ruka-pyon laughed. 

" No its okay actually, I find it cute." I handed the carrot to the rabbit, and we shared a lighthearted moment. Such a shame I couldn't get to eat it but seeing how cute the rabbit and Ruka is made me feel a little bit tingly inside.

" Thank you." As Ruka-pyon thanked me, he blushed again. His reactions were endearing and made our interactions enjoyable.

With that, Natsume abruptly stood up, causing a commotion in the room, as he left with a loud bang of his manga hitting the table. His sudden departure surprised not only me but also the other students present.