Fractal Plane: Awakener's Pact

Chapter 4 - Wavering Feelings

1

"... Alright, boys and girls, let's wrap up the first session of the new school year with a bang, shall we?"

Standing on top of a platform, a tall tan man declared with so much energy that his voice echoed all over Fuyusato's huge indoor pool. Adorned in just his swimming trunks, he faced the crowd of students in swimwear while putting on a toothy grin.

The students took a while to settle down and group themselves into four according to their swimwear. The males had blue and red swimming trunks, while the girls wore one-piece swimsuits that came in navy blue and red colors.

Among those who were in the class was Miki Amagi. Wearing the navy blue swimsuit, she took her place among her peers in class 2-C. As they finished grouping together, their PE teacher resumed instructions.

"Now that we've finished our first quick lessons, and I've gotten to know more about you, how about we end the first swimming class in style? I pick people by random, and you guys start racing each other. Two laps to a finish."

Putting his hand on top of his teal-haired head, he eyed the students intently.

"No need to be shy, boys and girls. Show us that skill and what you're made of!"

He continued his intent gaze at the student groups before suddenly raising his hand.

"Alright, let's kick this off with a battle between a second year and a third year! You're up, man!"

He pointed straight at a male wearing blue trunks. It was much to the delight of some girls, who squealed when they found out who's going to put on a show.

Seeing his cue, Reijy Ishida shrugged. Despite his thin frame, he trotted forward with an air of confidence. His gray hair nicely framed his delicate face that showed smugness. With features of a typical pretty boy, the heir to the Ishida Conglomerate looked right at home in this environment.

"Who would I embarrass this time, Mr. Himeji?"

After addressing his teacher, he spread his arms out magnificently. He confidently walked forward, carrying himself in what most people would think to be a dignified manner to much applause.

Ignoring his taunting, Mr. Himeji continued looking for the one he would face-off against.

"As for his opponent..."

Mr. Himeji pointed at an unassuming boy from among the red-wearing second years.

"You're up..." he looked at his class records before shouting the name of the boy out. "Akira Daimonji!"

Amagi noticed the boy timidly stepping forward at the call of his teacher. She felt sorry for the guy, having known Daimonji to be a mediocre to decent athlete at best. Everyone knew him for a couple of things, but sports is not one of them, unfortunately. The race has been decided as early as now.

It went as well as she, and probably most others, expected.

Triumphantly emerging from the pool the victor, Ishida rose and continued to bask in his glory much to the joy of some fangirls from the two sections.

"Nice game, both of you. Looks like you have one hell of a fanclub too... Ishida, right?"

After leading the students into a round of applause for the two competitors, Mr. Himeji turned back to his class. Now, he focused his attention on the girls and quickly pointed at a student.

"Let's have one round for the girls starting with you."

He pointed at someone, and after squinting and taking a look at the name written on the person's school swimsuit, he called her name out. "Amagi!"