Assassination Club

by Tythen

Week 7 Thursday: Catching the dragon (C. Chaser)

Cloudchaser's POV

CHS Special Tutorship Club Message Board

Timber Spruce has Joined the Chat!

Huh? Timbs? How did you join our group? - Soarin

Coach Justice said I had to do the Geography Practice Test to join, so I did it when I got back, and gave it to Coach Justice. He said that he'll let Mr Shiota mark it when he gets back from school. Not going to lie, that stuff was HARD! And I ended up getting way below average. But went Nagisa went through it with me, he said that it was because I decided to sit the test that got me signed up. Turns out the test he gave me was UNIVERSITY level. Did you guys do that? - Timber Spruce

The practice tests we got was written by Mr Trotter. I don't think we'd fare as well as you for such an exam. - Cheerilee

I was invited to the group by Ritsu, but that's not what I'm here to talk to you about. Mr Shiota was pretty shaken when he got back to the dorm, so Coach Justice and Ms Yada pulled him over to the teacher's room for a chat when they got back from eating outside. Turns out the agent that was stalking us the past two days is going to have his head. - Timber Spruce

Oh dear... and do you know who the secret agent was? - Roseluck

He admitted it to them straight away, Bon Bon. - Timber Spruce

Oof - Flitter

Snap - Soarin

Yikes! - Fleetfoot

I KNEW it!😨 - Pinkie Pie

... - Flash Sentry

... - Noteworthy

What's with the dots? - Fluttershy

My reaction - Flash Sentry

My reaction - Noteworthy

You two are weird sometimes... - Big Macintosh

Then what are we going to do? Is Mr Shiota going to have to... you know? - Fleetfoot

I doubt it. Even if she's an agent, she's still a student of CHS. Goddess forbid he'll lay a finger on her - Flash Sentry

And if Bon Bon has done her homework as a Secret Agent does, she's going to use that to her advantage! What a bitch! - Cloudchaser

You actually swore! Wow! - Flitter

I think there are a few things that I'm a little unaware of... why did he come to Equestria again? - Cheerilee

You know that guy who threatened our school? - Fluttershy

Which one? The guy with the tentacle finger or the man that Flash decimated? - Noteworthy

Tentacles. That's what he, as well as Ms Yada and Coach Justice, are trying to solve. These tentacles are reminiscent of what made Korosensei in Neighpon. How is the thing responsible for destroying the moon present in Equestria? That's what they're here to find out and why. I should also mention that our three teachers know how to remove these tentacles from people. - Flash Sentry

Something like that is a state of emergency! Mr Shiota should bring this up to the authorities! Why did he keep this secret? - Cheerilee

I don't know the entire story. If we'd ask, I'm sure he'll just tell us to focus on our studies. But my guess is simply going to the authorities isn't as easy as we think, and they know that. - Fluttershy

Government conspiracy? - Timber Spruce

I hope not... - Flash Sentry

But whatever Sensei's reason, I'm still worried about what Bon Bon would do to him. - Fleetfoot

If she thinks she's going to have her way, I'm not letting her! Mr Shiota, Ms Yada and Coach Justice have been kind and trusting people, even if they're formerly assassins! - Cloudchaser

I am with you on this one Cloudchaser. They may be originally trained as assassins, but I fully trust that they use it for a brighter and less bloody future for themselves and others. But are there any objections or concerns? Do not be afraid to speak up. - Flash Sentry

No lip from me, Brad - Thunderlane

Nothing of conflict. - Roseluck

Just one thing... I'm just learning that Mr Shiota, Ms Yada and Coach Justice were assassins. Can you run that by me again? - Timber Spruce

Facing a secret agent is intimidating, and I do see them as a higher authority. But I cannot deny Mr Shiota protecting the school. He should at least have his say. - Cheerilee

For Sensei! - Fleetfoot

Then how are we going to stop her? - Fluttershy

She's planning to use the fact that he won't harm his students, even if it's her. We don't follow that code tho, especially when a teacher we care for is at risk. Let's pull a 'no u' on her instead. - Cloudchaser

Goddess, what happened to you?

But I like your thinking. How about one of us follows Mr Shiota around and keep an eye on him, while the rest of us keep an eye on Bon Bon when possible? - Flitter

Let's all meet in the soccer bleachers before school starts. If we can't make it on time, I'll be happy to scribe the things we talk about over the phone. - Flash Sentry

Me me! I'll do it! I have the fastest fingers here!" - Pinkie Pie

If anything was missed out, feel free to add it in - Soarin

Eeyup, got it - Big Macintosh

No one's going to ask my question? - Timber Spruce

Sorry Timber, we'll tell you in the morning - Nurse Redheart

"Cloudy? Breakfast is ready!!!" My mom calls.

"Coming!" I called back. I put my phone in my schoolbag and headed down the stairs, feeling a little angry at Bon Bon and what she's going to do, but I'd better not show it to mum or dad or they'll get suss! But I mean it. Mr Shiota belongs in CHS, teaching students like us.

---

Flitter and I arrived at the School gates right at the same time. With a fist bump as a greeting, the two of us headed to the soccer bleachers. Thunderlane was there already, as was Flash and Fluttershy. After 5 minutes, all the students of the Special Tutorship Club were present, including our newest member.

"So uh... I know we've got the matter about Bon Bon and Mr Shiota but... assassins?" Timber started,

"Are you familiar with the time when the news said that the Earth was potentially going to explode?" Flash asked,

"I think we were around babies and toddlers about that time," Timber responded, "But I do know that it was because of that yellow Neighponese octopus monster thing. Korosensei?"

"Yep," Fluttershy nodded, "And yet surprisingly his demands, while having his life on the line, was to teach a certain class of students to kill him too. Teaching them to be assassins."

"It's a much more complicated story than that, given how the class has been treated by the rest of the school. Most of the students graduated and became upstanding citizens without drawing blood... like Mr Shiota and Ms Yada!" I answered,

Timber blinked, then yelled,

"WHAT!?!?!? Also, what's with the 'most'? Don't tell me some of their classmates did end up as assassins!!!"

"Coach Justice is a Counter-Terrorist Operative for Neighpon." Flitter elaborated, "Basically the equivalent of SWAT."

"Oh, okay. Now that you mentioned it, Coach did say that. Not going to lie though, that's still scary." Timber Spruce nodded, "Now I understand why you guys were talking about tentacles."

"Now the EIA's gettin' suspicious of 'im." Big Mac repeated, "Would Mr Shiota tell them the truth?"

"He would, but I'm not sure they will believe him." Cheerilee countered, "The secret service is sworn to protect their own country. Even if it's just one person, an entire organisation sworn to protect the government won't take the idea that something dangerous would lurk in their home. They are at the government's beck and call."

"And being under the government is surely reassuring..." Pinkie rolled her eyes,

"Not a fan of them?" I asked,

"I think it's common and understandable to say we all have something against the Government," Noteworthy answered, "Now the problem is, are we going to get in trouble for going against an EIA agent?"

"Probably pull each of us in for interrogation then wipe our memories or something," Thunderlane grumbled, "But honestly? Fuck 'em. I care more about Mr Shiota and Coach Justice than my damn government. They can take away Ms Yada though."

"Oh come on! She's just teasing you! She's very sisterly as a sub teacher," Fleetfoot giggled, "After all, girls only do that to guys because they like them!"

"Hard. Pass." Thunderlane shuddered,

"Back to the plan everyone. Keep Bon Bon away from Mr Shiota. But how?" Flash reminded, then we all pondered in silence.

"Excuse me?" An elderly voice called to us.

"Oh!" We all jumped at the sight of the Janitor approaching us,

"S-Sorry sir!" Soarin started, "We aren't doing any funny business here, I swear! We'll leave,"

"Not so fast sonny boy, I know a lie when I see one! I've heard everything, and I like to help."

"... What?" We all went,

"Would you believe me if I said that I agree with you in that Mr Shiota, Ms Yada, and Onion Boy should stay? They saved the school twice now. I will vouch for them to stay. I'm sure Celestia and Luna would too."

"Onion boy?" Thudnerlane scoffed, "That's... how did I not see that? That would drive him nuts, and I love it!"

"New nickname then!!!" Pinkie giggled,

"Are you sure about this, sir?" Flash asked, "We don't want you losing your job because of us."

"I can assist from the shadows and lend you some of my cleaning tools... you are familiar with them, no?"

Fluttershy swallowed. So did Roseluck and Soarin. Pinkie just beamed.

"You know something about them?" I asked,

"I've spent time helping the Janitor clean the halls, and well... the bleach used to clean the floor is... self-made... and is strong as superglue," Fluttershy answered,

"The same goes for the pesticide he uses." Roseluck added, "It's dreadfully repugnant. The Janitor offered to use pesticide on our plants to which it says that it wouldn't affect the plant's growth. We were convinced, but that smell was a drawback."

"On a Sunday, I went to school for some silent practice. The Janitor was around at that time, cleaning the bleachers and I sat on it. My behind was beyond itchy. Turns out that the cleaner the janitor used had Rosehip in its recipe." Soarin explained,

"Rosehip? Isn't that tea? It has a very nice scent, so I understand it is used for cleaning products... but why itchy?" Cheerilee asked,

"Oh dear..." Roseluck gulped, "Rosehip produces seeds with prickly hairs... Those hairs contain various enzymes that irritate the skin. In other words, itching powder."

"Woah!"

"Crazy!"

"Dayum..."

Various exclamations went up with the club.

"Oh please! You flatter me!" The Janitor laughed,

"Sir, who are you?" Timber Spruce asked, "You're definitely not a Janitor."

"Ho ho ho..." The Janitor guffawed, "I am just a normal janitor. And a janitor's hands always get dirty for the sake of cleaning other things."

---

End of Period 1

Bon Bon has left the classroom. Who's with Mr Shiota? - Roseluck

I'll do it - Cloudchaser

"Hey! Mr Shiota!" I made a beeline for him, "Are you going anywhere?"

"Oh hey! I haven't got any classes for now. A free pass to the teacher's lounge." He responded, "Did you need something?"

"Yeah! I'll walk with you!"

"Well, aren't you nice? Sure! I'd love to talk along the way!" Mr Shiota agreed.

Lead him to the hallway intersections. Thunderlane's volunteered to 'mop' the floor. - Roseluck

"Hey Mr Shiota," I asked as we started walking, "Can we go this way?" I pointed towards the main hallways,

"Uh... why?"

"A little surprise! Check it out!" I tugged.

"O-Okay," Mr Shiota nodded and we quickly walked together. I swore I could have seen Bon Bon turning the corner to face us. Not going to lie, I feel a little scared now that I know what she's doing. So I picked up the pace.

"Well well!" Mr Shiota gasped as we arrived at the main intersection, "Thunderlane? Are you cleaning the floor???"

"Yep!" Thunderlane smiled back at him, holding a mop and bucket, "I got in trouble again, rightfully so. However, this floor's going to get wet so you'd better keep moving!"

"Right! Sorry!" I nodded and continued taking him along,

"Hey..." Mr Shiota pointed a thumb back without turning around, "How did he get into trouble?"

"Flipped off the Janitor for getting in the way. One of the teachers saw that and now he's forced to do the cleaning as an apology to the Janitor." I lied without showing any form of nervousness. We made sure to have our alibis and messages during the planning.

"I see..." Nagisa nodded, "Well then, thanks for taking me to the lounge! You'd better get off to class!"

"No problem Teach, see ya!" I waved goodbye. Once he went in, I heard some giggling and laughing from the main hallway. I smiled and pulled out my phone again,

Is Bon Bon 'Stuck in the Mud'? - Cloudchaser

Oh yeah. She's struggling to get out without any sense of idea what happened! I don't think any form of secret agent training is going to help her get out of that! - Thunderlane

I have no idea how he could make floor cleaner so sticky... - Soarin

Make sure to tell us what colour stain she has on her shoes once she gets out - Fleetfoot

---

End of Period 2/Recess
"Explain," Mr Shiota commanded with a calm but strict tone,

"Explain what sir?" Fluttershy asked,

"First of all, I don't recall all of you meeting up in the Neighponese classroom for Recess. Ritsu had to tell me all of you were present in the classroom without me knowing. Second of all, what happened between the first and second period of classes were extremely suspicious."

"Hey, old habits die hard." Thunderlane shrugged,

"Actually, you are improving Thunderlane." Mr Shiota responded, "It was because you mentioned the Janitor, Cloudchaser," He looked at me,

"Me? What did I say? What's wrong about him?" I feigned innocence,

"I know you're trying to feign innocence." Mr Shiota sighed, "And I know that wasn't ordinary floor cleaner. That's the Janitor's bleach. It's like superglue between the floor and your shoes. I fell victim to it as I was going to my interview for CHS."

"Ohh..." Went everyone, including me. As far as I know, nothing can get past Mr Shiota!

"I know why you guys did this. Bon Bon is after me, and you don't want her to take me away." Mr Shiota revealed,

"Do you want us to stop?" Fluttershy asked, "We did make sure not to harm her in any way, shape, or form. Just wanted to distract or stop her."

"You guys are the most caring students!" Mr Shiota smiled, "I am really honoured to be loved by you guys that you'd step in to defend me!!!"

"Aww..." We all went,

"BUT!" Mr Shiota coughed, "Bon Bon is a student too, no matter how much she denies it."

"Sensei..." Fluttershy looked troubled, "You need to stop her. You can't just leave her be when she's tailing you. You aren't able to write up the Neighponese exam this way."

I gulped. I completely forgot about the Neighponese exam...

"... Alright then," Mr Shiota took a deep breath, "I'll have to 'parley' with her, and all of you should attend. Does lunchtime sound good?"

"Perfect."

"Cool,"

"We're going to pull a Cheerilee, aren't we?"

Some students responded,

"Hey!" Cheerilee snapped,

"First off, you need to let her know about this. I'll send an email, Goddess hopes she'll read it. I think you guys should tell her too." Mr Shiota planned, "And as much as I hate to say it... if Bon Bon is as stubborn as she showed me... you have to let her know you mean business. Stop Bon Bon if you feel a need to, but be mindful of everyone else. Promise?"

"Yes sir!" We all went,

"Alright then. Out of the class kiddos, spend your recess with friends." Mr Shiota dismissed with a smile,

"Hey so... who's going to tell Bon Bon?" Redheart asked as we left the class, "Who's has her next?"

"I do." I checked my classes, "She's in the same Religious Studies class as me."

"I'll keep watch on sir for the next period," Big Mac volunteered,

"In the fourth period, I will be with Bon Bon." Nurse Redheart responded, "Of course, the Janitor will help set up the class there. Good thing we have the fixed seat system."

"So who's going to get the stuff from the janitor for period 3?"

"I'll do it," Timber volunteered.

---

Period 3
"Hey! Bon Bon!" I found her in front of our class,

"Oh, it's you... Cloudchaser right?" She responded in a kind tone,

"Yeah! I heard you were interested in the Special Tutorship Club. So we told Mr Shiota, and he said to feel free to come along for today's lunchtime!"

"R-Really?" Bon Bon continued speaking like a normal girl would, "That's nice, but... maybe another time."

"Are you sure?" I prompted,

"Yeah. I've got something on at lunchtime, so I won't be able to make it. Perhaps tomorrow?"

"Okay then!" I smiled and went into the classroom. You know, it would be better if you went to see him, rather than try and catch him. Yeah, I know you're the type of person who'd go low as to attack a teacher, but you got to deal with us first! The last glimpse of her was when she pulled out her phone to quickly peek at a notification. That would be the invite to the club chat. Should she accept, we'd ask her to go to lunchtime. Given her response to me though, I doubt she'd accept this too. Alrighty then, enjoy what's going to happen to you at Period 4!

---

Period 4
Today's art class involved using the library's computers, all while using headphones. You wouldn't believe who popped up on my screen.

"Hello, Cloudchaser!" Ritsu, Mr Shiota's A.I. companion, greeted with her voice only, "I found out you would be in the library today. If you were busy in class, I thought I'd like to use this time to give you an update on what's happening with 'Connie' Banks! Don't change your screen, you'll just have to make do without my face! I know I'm attractive but if the teacher saw you, you'd be toast!"

"Now that's a movie I haven't seen for a long time." I blinked, "What of it?"

"She's currently in the nurses' office right now, her bum, hands, and legs all itchy. Nurse Redheart's holding her down, while giving her the hint to come to the classroom at Lunchtime. I'm seeing the situation through her phone screen, which is not in her pocket."

"Did she accept the invite?"

"She did! Noteworthy, Fluttershy and Flash greeted her with a warm welcome, then with the message to go to the lunchtime. Even said that Mr Shiota would be expecting her. She responded with nothing though. I did manage to catch her getting all itchy. She was dancing mad!!!"

"Aww man, I wish I could see it!"

"So do others!" Ritsu laughed, "A shame that today's perspective is focused on you!"

"Wait what?" I spoke out of complete confusion,

"Sorry! For some reason, I felt like copying the antics of your fellow student Pinkie Pie!"

"Ahhhh, that explains." I chuckled, "Alright then. Thanks for keeping me posted,"

"Hold on, I hear someone new. Someone just came into the Nurse's Office. It's Lyra Heartstrings!" Ritsu reported,

Oh? Bon Bon's best friend? That's interesting...

"I'm listening!" I reminded,

"Lyra's here to see if she's alright, as what friends do. But now... oh... ouch! Looks like Lyra has some stern words!"

I slid to the edge of my seat,

"What about?"

"She heard that Bon Bon's bothering Mr Shiota, and that's not a nice thing given that Mr Shiota has been very kind! Also, because of Bon Bon's mission to capture our teacher, she neglected Lyra. So Lyra went to find the next person she's comfortable with speaking. I'm sure we all know who that is."

"Flash," I answered back, "And I assume she asked where Bon Bon was, and Flash explained the story?"

"Bingo," Ritsu answered. "Bon Bon looks pretty agitated, and... yep, she's caved in. She's telling Nurse Redheart that she'll come to the Club at lunchtime,"

"I guess this is what they call 'Peer Pressure'!" I laughed,

"Excuse me Cloudchaser?" Ms Cia overheard my laughing, "What are you doing?"

"S-Sorry Ms Cia," I looked at her, "I'm just talking to myself."

---

Lunchtime, 1st half

I had the utmost confidence that Bon Bon would keel over and accept, but once we got into the classroom, everyone set the place up just like when Cheerilee came in without any boasting or laughing. Mr Shiota isn't in the mood to laugh when we're inviting the one that seeks to capture or potentially kill him. We all knew that.

"So how does it feel like to be a part of the jury, Cheery?" Pinkie asked,

"Just like being a part of an audience." The student-teacher responded,

"Hey Redheart, you alright?" Big Mac turned to the Nurse,

"Well..." Nurse Redheart shuddered, "When she told me she would be coming... her demeanour changed drastically. She's not the girl we've seen and shared classes with every day."

"Sensei, are you sure about this?" Fluttershy asked,

"She has been a part of this school more than I am. As long as she continues attending her classes and being recognised by her classmates as a student and friend, I am going to see her as such."

"I can't tell whether you're easy-going, or just plain crazy," Noteworthy responded,

"I'm both." Nagisa humorously wiggled his head, "Now huddle up everyone, I'm going to tell you all my plan..."

---

Two sharp knocks came from the door. Of all the dreams and hopes that I could meet a secret agent, being on hostile terms wasn't a reality I was hoping for.

"Is it her?" Coach Justice called to Ms Yada. Our sub teacher peered outside the door window, then looked back to us with a nod.

"Let her in," Mr Shiota instructed.

Once Ms Yada opened the door, I could scarcely believe my eyes. Bon Bon did not have a smile on her face back in Period 3. Her eyes looked dull and cold, her brows arched and sharpened like daggers, rounded up with the most deadpan neutral smile. The nurse was right, she was a different girl. The only thing I couldn't take seriously is her red hands scratching the back of her upper legs. I could feel our agent 'scanning' us with her eyeballs like a camera.

"I hate you all," She declared. "You guys are treading on thin ice. You have no idea what you're dealing with."

"Oh we know," Thunderlane returned the voice, "Ever since the start of the term."

"But before we talk, why don't you have a seat?" Mr Shiota offered, "Right in the middle. I promise you that there is no death trap or itching powder."

"Redheart said to avoid sitting down for now." Bon Bon countered,

"I also said NOT to scratch." Redheart added, offering a tin of balm, "So feel free just to stand up, but stop scratching. I've got some extra cream if you need it,"

Bon Bon took the balm before our eyes, applied a decent heap on her legs and arms, and leaned on the middle desk, continuing her constantly changing gaze.

"Bon Bon, your contempt with Assassins-turned-teachers is not uncalled for." Mr Shiota began, "But sometimes it can bring unexpected obstacles. Even I didn't think my students would go this far."

"I find that impossible to believe." Bon Bon stated,

"I speak honestly, though you may choose to believe me or not. Now does the EIA want my head?"

"No." Bon Bon answered, "They want you alive. But as long as you're alive, I can take you in via any means possible... yet such opportunities are limited now, thanks to my own 'classmates'."

"Wow, you are serious about being a secret agent." Pinkie smiled, "What would poor Lyra say?"

Bon Bon went silent.

"Bon Bon, listen to me loud and clear. The reason why I did not explain my presence in Equestria to you yesterday was that you were not right in the mind when you killed your captors." Mr Shiota explained. We all went silent.

"Bon Bon," Fleetfoot spoke up, "Is that true? Do you kill people?"

"I was captured. Guaranteed to be killed. If I let them go, they'll continue chasing me down until they kill me." Bon Bon responded without showing any sort of discomfort or guilt.

"Now that isn't true." Mr Shiota interjected, "I knocked them out and saved you. You ended up killing them once freed. They showed you something that ground your gears. Whoever they worked for, killed your mentor. Mr Johnny Backstop."

"He..." Ms Yada lowered her head, "I still can't believe someone as skilled as him could die."

"He's done this with many women, Ms Yada. He's not one to stay faithful." Bon Bon bluntly responded,

"Bon Bon, please be respectful." Coach Justice frowned, "For Ms Yada's feelings, as well as your mentor."

"Bon Bon," Mr Shiota paused, "Ms Yada, Coach Justice and I, are willing to cooperate with the EIA without any retaliation or objection."

Bon Bon gazed at them with furrowed eyes. I swallowed hard... I can't believe we're going to do this.

"There are three important conditions though." Mr Shiota answered, "One. You are to wait until I've completed and fully marked everyone's Neighponese Exam. Once scores are given, I will turn myself in."

"Sorry. That's not an option." Bon Bon refused, "And honestly? I couldn't care less about your teaching duties."

"Then that leads to condition two. The reason why I am here... is because of what happened to the incident of Windcaller. I assume you were there when he attacked the school, no? And if you were, then you know what I'm talking about."

I could feel Bon Bon freeze for a moment there,

"Tentacles..." Bon Bon answered, "... The antimatter incident... Korosensei..."

"So you have read about it."

"Information was classified. I couldn't follow-up on that." Bon Bon responded, "But even so, your offer of information is nothing to me."

"What? Why!?" Nagisa looked shocked,

"That's up for HQ to decide your information. Not me." Bon Bon replied, "Whether you'll explain or not, I'm still taking you in. If you want this to stop, turn yourself in now. Perhaps if you do so, you'll be able to get out and finish your precious Neighponese exam in time."

"I see..." Nagisa sighed, "Well, I've said all I can say. As much as I want to help, I guess we're at an impasse,"

"That's it?" Bon Bon looked puzzled, "Didn't you say there were 'three conditions'?"

"Condition three was made by us." Soarin boldly announced. One-by-one, we all stood up and glared at Bon Bon. Timber was a little bit nervous on doing so, and I don't blame him.

"So that's why all of you weren't surprised when Mr Shiota said he'll tell the EIA everything." Bon Bon unflinchingly revealed,

"As Thunderlane said, we know." I spoke with my chest puffed out, "He and the other four saw first hand what Mr Shiota, Ms Yada, and Coach Justice's target was. Flitter and I learned more when we joined next. Then Roseluck and Big Mac. We all saw it with our own eyes when Windcaller came to CHS with his slippery secret."

"And yet when we found out Mr Shiota was an assassin familiar with this sort of stuff, I honestly felt relieved." Noteworthy answered, "He saved the school twice with his guidance and brought some of our classmates to stand up against the recent threats. He's a keeper."

"You aren't afraid that he may turn on you?" Bon Bon questioned,

"No." Fluttershy stepped forward with a stern gaze, "Because I trust him, more than any other teacher. We all do."

"If you want to get through him." Flitter stood beside me, "You'll have to deal with us first. Unless... you're fine with harming your classmates or Equestrian citizens."

I flinched internally. Flitter, you know I love you... but don't follow Bon Bon's example.

"Try to avoid or ignore us all you want," Flash continued, "But if you attempt to catch sir, we'll always be there to break him out or slow you down."

"... I really hate you guys." Bon Bon spoke after half-a-second of silence.

"Bon Bon. There's only one way you'll have to convince us to stand aside." Fluttershy responded, "How about a little honourable game?"

I crossed my fingers, hoping for the best.

"I know that what you do is for the safety of all of Equestria. The problem is, Mr Shiota is doing just that; for the sake of students like us. So if we win, you need to take Mr Shiota at his word and tell the EIA about it. If we lose, you can take him. But either way, you have to go through us." Fluttershy continued,

Bon Bon walked up to Fluttershy, slightly towering over her with her gaze looking like daggers. My first impressions of Fluttershy was that she was shy but kind. As of now? Very ballsy! A secret agent's staring down at her, and she isn't flinching one bit.

"What's your game?" Bon Bon growled,

"My game?" Fluttershy blinked, "Not mine... that choice is yours."

That's right. We're pulling a Thunderlane here. It was his idea... or rather the only idea, given inspiration since the Assassination 101 lesson was just a game of hide-and-seek. Still, a part of me wasn't cool with this, but I told myself, again and again, it was the only idea at hand. Bon Bon casually took a step back, then answered,

"If you want to be serious about this, prove it with your actions. A game of force." Bon Bon chose,

I felt my confidence plummet. I knew she was going to pick 'fight', and yet my prediction doesn't calm me one bit. She turned back to Mr Shiota.

"You're alright with that, 'Sir'? Or can you not bear to see your fellow students fight each other?"

Bon Bon, you really are a bitch!!! But Flitter did the same thing so, yeah never mind...

"Why does this always have to come back to me?" Nagisa grumbled, "No. I do not want to see you guys fight, but it's obvious that both of you are intent on using extremities. Therefore, I have three conditions for this 'game'. One-on-one, no weapons, and two ways to win: When your opponent is down for three seconds or they surrender; those are my terms. Breach any one of those, and it's an instant forfeit."

Okay, I'm officially convinced that we dug a deep hole instead of making things better.

"Acceptable terms," Bon Bon agreed, "What about all of you? This is your choice after all."

We went silent, looked at each other, then nervously turn away. Afraid or embarrassed to look her in the eyes. Bon Bon just gave a coy smile at us.

"Tell you what. Since you were kind as to let me choose the game... I'll let you decide your 'champion'. You have till tomorrow lunchtime. That's when the game begins. Deal?"

"Uhh..." I went. I could feel my affection to Mr Shiota ebbing away.

"No pulling out this time, and absolutely no telling anyone, especially a teacher or Lyra. Otherwise, we'll play the same old stop the cat and mouse game. If you think I'll tire out, think again."

"Deal," Fluttershy spoke, forcibly on behalf of all of us.

"You're an interesting girl, Fluttershy," Bon Bon spoke, "Who knew that the first person to be a part of the assassin's life would be you?"

"He's more than just an assassin, Bon Bon." Fluttershy responded, "He's a teacher."

"Very well. I promise not to bother you for the rest of the day, Mr Shiota. But I look forward to the fight. Let's hope you pick the most anticipated!" She waved and walked to the door. Before she left though, she turned to face our three Neighponese teachers and bowed. Once the other three bowed back she left, leaving all of us with the sound of silence.

"Is it too late to say I regret this plan?" I ask,

"Even after we've gotten rough with Windcaller and Pressure Shaker?" Mr Shiota responded, "Absolutely. We're going against a student and classmate of ours. I don't know if I can stomach this."

"If you want our guidance on who should be the 'champion', ask." Coach Justice swallowed, "But remember, you guys have until tomorrow."

"You'd better start fixing the Neighponese Test, Mr Shiota." Ms Yada nudged, "You've got no excuse now."

"I know." Mr Shiota nodded gloomily,

---

After what happened, I desperately wanted to take my mind out of the club. I purposely avoided seeing any of the other club members, teachers, and Bon Bon. I couldn't even bear to see Flitter or Thunderlane, even though we were friends. I just hurried on home, threw my phone onto the desk, and tried to do homework like a normal student, blocking out any notification from the phone.

"Cloudy? Dinner!" My mom called,

I took a deep breath and got up.

"Coming!" I responded, heading out of my room. I hope some food can help.

---

"Darling?" My mom looked at me with suspicious eyes, "You've barely touched your food. I know that my kitchen attempts end up mostly in failure, but this Paella is something I've worked hard on!"

"Huh? Sorry..." I jumped, "I just don't feel hungry..."

"Then something must have happened at school today. Are you alright? You can always tell me..."

"I... well..." I stammered,

"There's nothing to be afraid about, dear." Mom comforted, "If you're being bullied, then it's important to speak up. There is no value of being called a 'tell-tale' when bullying is wrong in the first place!"

"No mum..." I responded, "It's not being bullied..."

"Then what is?" She prompted, "Did you get in trouble?"

"Well... yeah. I'm not in trouble with the teachers. It's one of the teachers that are in trouble, and I'm afraid of it."

My mom's eyes widened.

"Please tell me... what is happening in school?"

"My teacher is facing some opposition from students for something he had accidentally done... however, there are students who are in support of him. I'm of the supporting party. And well... we're of a minority." I lied,

"Oh dear..." Mom looked shocked, "Sounds like someone's learning about law early... rest assured, I understand that feeling..."

"You do?" I looked back,

"There are people that I admired when I was young. Teachers mostly. Sadly, most teachers I adored was on the blacklist of most students. Going so far to say stuff beyond her back. I didn't believe them though... those students also occasionally slacked in class. It's the reason why these teachers are so strict on them because they couldn't bother to learn. Deep down, I wanted to tell them so much that they were wrong, but I was afraid. If I told them that I liked them for who she is, I feared that they would seed me out as the worst student. I may lose some friends, or even get bullied. And so, I decided to keep silent, supporting the teachers I adore away from the eyes of my peers."

Mum stirred her paella.

"Then something similar happened after I graduated. I had a good friend who was bullied by our work colleagues, spreading nasty gossip behind his back. Those rumours reached our boss. So he called him and others in, demanding to know these. This time, I know that if those workers got their way, he would be fired wrongly. And this time, I knew that what they had claimed was false. So I stepped forward and objected. Thankfully, that objection was what kept his job intact. In the end, I also got the same treatment as he did, and that's when I realised something."

"What?" I asked,

"That those scumbag workers were just all bark and no bite." She answered, "Their gossip was just pathetic. Even if the boss inquires about any nasty rumours, which he did, I simply told them where I was and what I have been doing. He trusts me more, given I spent my time working instead of spreading gossip. I realised I could have done the same thing, standing up for my teacher. So what if I lose a few friends in high school? We never ended up keeping in touch anyway."

"I see..." I nodded,

"But you'll never know what that feeling is until you experience it for yourself." Mum concluded, "Just so you know, consider whether you truly believe your teacher deserves your support. There's no shame in choosing neither party. And just remember... even if you stick to your beliefs, I'm still your friend."

"Okay, mum." I reluctantly nodded,

"Come here," Mum opened her arms, "Do what you think is right."

"Thanks, mum..." I stood up and hugged her. That's when something loud roared throughout the room.

"Oops..." I blushed, "Sorry mum..."

"Sounds like your appetite's back." Mum smiled back,

---

Wow, that paella was delicious. Mum outdid herself this time. A shame that dad couldn't try it for himself. Then again, he's on the beat at night. Hopefully, he'd be able to try the leftovers tomorrow. I took a shower after dinner, to make myself comfortable. As I sat back down, I looked at my phone placed face-down. I thought back to what my mom just said, about having to face your fears. Given I tried to construct my lie about Mr Shiota facing opposition, I think it would help.

And now that I calmed down and thought about this properly, we can prove a challenge. Flash was a formidable fighter back then. Seeing him fight, I'm sure he could handle Bon Bon. I wish I could say I could fight, but I can't. I have little to no skill in fighting.

But as I read through my missed messages, my jaw dropped. How did I not think of that!?

CHS Special Tutorship Club Message Board

So uh... is anyone going to volunteer? - Thunderlane

I will. - Flash Sentry

Pretty quick. Then again, you're the only one who could fight out of everyone here! - Soarin

Woah, you fought before? - Timber Spruce

He practices Taekwondo and used it against someone threatening the school last week. - Soarin

Problem is though, will you be comfortable facing Bon Bon? - Flitter

It will be fine. I'll treat it as a competitive match. - Flash Sentry

Okay, that was a dumb question by me - Flitter

Um... - Fluttershy

Yes, Fluttershy? - Cheerilee

Let me fight. - Fluttershy

Huh? - Thunderlane

What? - Flitter

You serious? - Roseluck

Flutters, are you sure this is a good idea? - Nurse Redheart

😲 You're going to use THAT! Are you? - Pinkie Pie

... Yes. I'll try use as little of it as possible. Just to push her confidence away - Fluttershy

Huh... seems everyone has their secrets - Timber Spruce

Okay, I'm convinced you can do this. - Flash Sentry

I should also tell you this... despite having the stare, I never really gave much thought as to why I had such a thing in the first place. It just came to me naturally. - Fluttershy

You didn't know? - Flitter

It came to me at a young age, when I saw some in-fighting between animals. Something riled up within me, wanting them to stop. So I stepped forward and confronted them, and suddenly they were all frozen and listening. I promised not to use it unless it's a dire emergency. Which is what this is right now. - Fluttershy

So... why did you start thinking? - Noteworthy

This may sound crazy, but I assure you it's true. Do you remember that I have a pet rabbit and lately a pet falcon? Well, they happen to have another letter in their grasp when I got back - Fluttershy

The guardian angel that saved you from suicide - Soarin

Wait, what!? - Timber Spruce

Yes. Whoever C.B.B is, told me that she heard about what I did weeks ago... she also told me...

She knows about my Stare.

When I never met her or even wrote to her at all - Fluttershy

---

Nagisa's Notes

Cloudchaser

6. Rather interesting habit in her melee skills back in that training. Her shooting skills are also a little below average.

7. Very clever in hiding the most obvious expressions and tells when it comes to lying.

8. Eager to be part of a plan or a mission, and is confident and willing to put herself forward in various tasks (at least a foolproof plan. If she has any doubt of a plan, she will hesitate)

9. Anything that she's not capable of will tend for her to end up in fear. That fear would completely demotivate her from even communicating for at least an hour or more. (Thanks to Ritsu's observation for Cloudchaser not entering the message board until the evening.)

10. Seems to have a little pet peeve when it comes to being taunted. Could be possible that Thunderlane rubbed off on her, could not.

---

Roseluck (Ro or Rose)

Very Pale Yellow Colour, Moderate Rasberry Hair with Light Rasberry streaks. Sometimes wears a beret and lipstick, or just a rose hair accessory for her medium pointed hair.

1. Very knowledgable on flowers.

2. Part of the Botany Club. Hence flower knowledge

3. Wears a particular and unique rosy perfume.

4. Her results are average. Above average for Biology and Religious Studies.

5. Her firearm results above-average at close range. I have no record of her having wielded a gun before... why is that?

---

Pinkie Pie

Light Ceriseish Gray Colour, Brilliant Rose Hair. Very... poofy, curly-like hair? Oh, and somehow it also deflates (as well as end up with straight hair) whenever she feels extremely depressed.

1. Extremely energetic. Bounces, and skips around,

2. Extremely proficient with party planning, organising events and taking names,

3. She has this particular 'magic power' that comes from the pony world. Apparently, it can make sweets explode.

4. Works as a waitress in The Sweet Shoppe.

5. Does things that defy gravity.

6. And physics...

7. And the human mentality (apparently, her 'pony' form does the same thing in her world)

8. Despite her personality getting irritating, she sincerely spreads love and joy to those that she meets. The representative of the 'Element of Laughter'

9. Perseverance and Optimism are two of her strong points which supports note 8.

10. Unpredictable and weird, In a good way. However, it makes predicting her extremely difficult...

---

IMPORTANT!

1. Fluttershy will be volunteering to fight against Bon Bon tomorrow. She's certainly using The Stare. Even so, remember to give her guidance.

2. Though Ritsu's already on it, also send a memo back to the team in Neighpon. Find information on who C.B.B. is. Fluttershy's lettered guardian may be from Neighpon, given her gifts. Her knowledge of the Stare is very concerning.

Comments

[Tythen]

10548001
Aww, glad you remember that part to its very detail! But I think it's a small thing, I think referring to when Thunderlane took a picture is enough already. Also, thanks for the comment!