TDA Chapter 3 Birthday (Patreon)

Kouh, Miyamoto’s Dojo 

The soft glow of the afternoon sun filtered through the paper doors of the Miyamoto dojo, bathing the polished wooden floors in amber light. The rhythmic sound of thwack—thwack—thwack! echoed through the quiet hall as Zekka Miyamoto, dressed in her white gi and black hakama, swung her bokken with fierce determination.

Each strike was deliberate, each breath steady. Sweat glistened at her temples as the wooden sword sliced the air with crisp precision.

Her grandmother’s lessons rang in her head: “Every swing should reflect your resolve, Zekka. A sword without intent is just a toy.”

She adjusted her stance, exhaled deeply, and raised the bokken again—

(Wow, you’re really going at it today,) Came a mischievous male voice from nowhere.

Zekka froze mid-swing. Her eyes widened. “Wha—!” She yelped, nearly tripping over her own feet as the bokken clattered to the floor. Her heart raced, her face flushing crimson as her gaze darted around the empty dojo.

Then she realized as she traced the sound. Her eyes lowered to her chest. “T-Tensei!” she hissed in embarrassment.

A small golden light shimmered faintly through the fabric of her gi, pulsing in rhythm with the teasing tone of the spirit residing within her Sacred Gear.

(Relax, relax~,) Tensei chuckled, his smooth, slightly smug voice resonating from her chest. (No one’s here, especially not your boytoy.)

Zekka’s blush deepened. “D-don’t call him that!” She stammered, crossing her arms over her chest defensively. “He’s not—! I mean—! Just don’t say things like that!”

The spirit laughed, the golden glow pulsing brighter for a moment. (Oh, come on! You can’t hide it from me. I live right above your heart, remember? That boy’s been the center of your world since you were little. I feel every time you get all fluttery thinking about him. Plus your dreams with him are pretty hot, can’t believe you haven’t pushed him down yet.)

Zekka’s eye twitched as she tried to suppress her embarrassment. “You’re impossible,” she muttered, stooping to pick up her bokken. “And for your information, I’m practicing seriously. Not everything’s about Issei!”

(Sure, sure,) Tensei replied in that lazy, teasing way that only made her blush harder. (But you know, if you really want that boy to notice you, you’ll have to do more than just swing your sword around all day. Take a risk or two! A little flirting never hurt anyone. Why not just tell him the truth already? He’d probably think it’s awesome! I mean, I’d love to meet him, sounds like my kind of guy. A true connoisseur of the female form!)

Zekka spun on her heel, her voice sharp. “No! If he knew anything about my Sacred Gear, or—” she stopped, biting her lip. “If Issei ever learned about the supernatural, he’d… he’d jump straight in without thinking. He’s reckless. He’d probably get himself killed trying to protect someone else. I… I couldn’t stand to see him get hurt because of me.”

For a brief moment, silence filled the dojo.

Tensei sighed, his voice softening slightly. (Yeah, yeah. You’ve got a point. That boy’s got the heart of a dragon and the brains of a goldfish. Still… keeping him in the dark won’t last forever, y’know. Destiny’s got a funny way of kicking down doors.)

Zekka frowned, pouting slightly. “You sound just like Grandma. You both keep saying that ‘destiny this, destiny that’, but you never tell me what it means.”

(Oh, that’s a surprise for later~,) Tensei said slyly. (Wouldn’t want to spoil the story now, would we?)

She groaned, exasperated. “You are the worst partner.”

He chuckled. (I try.)

Zekka sighed, shaking her head with a small, unwilling smile as she picked up her bokken again. The teasing was annoying, yes, but in a strange way… comforting.

(So,) Tensei drawled, (why the sudden extra enthusiasm, huh? You’ve been at it since morning.)

Her expression softened, the edge in her stance melting away. “Because…” She said, a faint smile curling her lips, “I want to finish early so I can go buy something.”

(Oh?) Tensei’s voice perked up with interest. (And what might that be?)

“A gift,” She replied quietly, pausing to tighten her grip on the bokken. “Tomorrow’s Issei’s birthday. I already know what I want to get him.” Her smile grew a little wider, her eyes softening with the thought. “I can already imagine it—how surprised he’ll look, how happy he’ll be… maybe we’ll play games or go out somewhere. Just like old times.”

(Aww,) Tensei cooed mockingly. (You’re such a romantic. Planning to finally confess, huh?)

Zekka froze, color exploding across her cheeks. “Wha—what are you saying!?” She sputtered, her bokken slipping from her grasp again as she turned scarlet.

Tensei’s laughter echoed through the dojo, loud and shameless. (Oh, come on! Don’t tell me you’re not thinking about it. Tomorrow’s perfect—a gift, a quiet moment, maybe under the sunset~)

“Tensei!” She shouted, flustered beyond reason.

(Alright, alright, fine,) He said between chuckles. (No need to shout. Still… I think it’d do you some good. Bottling those feelings up is going to make your swings sloppy.)

Zekka glared down at the faint golden glow on her chest. “You talk too much for a sword.”

(And you blush too much for a warrior.) He shot back playfully.

She sighed deeply, trying to hide her flustered expression as she picked up the bokken again. “I’m going back to practice. And you—you stay quiet.”

(Sure thing, partner,) Tensei said, still clearly amused. (But don’t forget to wrap that gift nicely. Heroes deserve good presents.)

Despite herself, Zekka chuckled under her breath. “You really are a pain,” She muttered, but her voice was softer now.

As she resumed her training, the rhythmic sound of her strikes filled the dojo once more. Each swing felt lighter than before, driven not by duty or expectation—but by a quiet, fluttering warmth. She smiled faintly between strikes, her heart whispering a truth she’d never dare say aloud. ‘Tomorrow… maybe I’ll finally tell him.’

The fading sun painted her in gold, her sword glinting with every movement, as if even destiny itself was watching—and waiting.

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

16th of April 

Kouh Academy, Class 1-B

The sun filtered warmly through the classroom windows of Class 1-B, casting long stripes of gold across desks and chatter. The air buzzed with the casual energy of teenagers discussing clubs, homework, and weekend plans.

At one desk near the middle, Issei Hyoudou sat grinning ear to ear, chatting animatedly with his two partners-in-crime, Matsuda and Motohama.

“Today’s the day, boys!” Issei declared proudly, leaning back in his chair with the grin of a man about to take on destiny.

Matsuda blinked. “The day for what? Another failed confession attempt?”

Motohama adjusted his glasses with a knowing smirk. “Nah, I can tell by the glint in his eyes. Something’s up. Spill it, Hyoudou.”

Issei puffed his chest out like a rooster. “It’s my birthday, baby!”

A moment of silence followed before Matsuda and Motohama suddenly gasped. “Wait, seriously!?”

“Yup! The glorious day the Harem King was born!”

Their over-the-top reactions drew attention from nearby desks. A few students laughed, others rolled their eyes—but two particular girls walking past stopped mid-conversation.

Gudako Fujimaru, with her usual easygoing expression, turned toward him, and beside her, Aika Kiryuu arched a brow, already smiling mischievously.

“Wait, today’s your birthday?” Gudako asked, walking over with curiosity.

Issei nodded eagerly. “Yup! April sixteenth, mark it down, it’s a sacred day.”

Aika smirked. “Well, well. Happy birthday, perv. I can’t believe we almost missed such a historic event.”

Gudako smiled warmly. “Yeah, happy birthday, Issei. Why didn’t you tell us sooner? I could have bought a gift.”

He scratched the back of his head, a little embarrassed. “Heh, guess it slipped my mind. I figured I’d just keep it simple.”

Matsuda leaned in with an exaggerated grin. “Or we could make it memorable!”

Motohama’s glasses gleamed ominously. “Indeed. I know the perfect place for gentlemen of culture.”

Issei blinked. “Wait… do you mean—?”

“Exactly.” They both said in unison, their eyes sparkling with unholy light.

“An establishment where beauty transcends mortal reason!” Matsuda declared dramatically.

“Where art and flesh become one! Let’s go to Akihabara!” Motohama added reverently.

Issei hesitated for a split second, his grin faltering as he imagined his mother’s face if she ever found out. “…As much as I’d love to appreciate the female form tonight, but I can’t. My parents are throwing me a small party at home.”

Matsuda groaned. “Aww, come on!”

Motohama sighed. “Denied by parental obligation…”

“But!” Issei added quickly, raising a finger. “You guys can come! My folks would be cool with it.”

Both boys immediately straightened, grinning. “Wait, for real!?”

“Of course!” Issei said. Then he turned toward Aika and Gudako with his usual cheerful openness. “You two can come too! My mom would love to meet my friends, and my dad—well, he’s basically another me, but older.”

Aika blinked, caught off guard. “You’re inviting us?”

“Yeah!” He said sincerely. “You don’t need to bring anything either—just come, eat, hang out, have fun. The more the merrier!”

Gudako smiled, though a flicker of hesitation crossed her expression. “Are you sure your parents won’t mind?”

“Nah,” Issei said, waving off the concern. “They’ll be ecstatic! Oh, and there’s someone else you’ll meet too, my childhood friend. She’s been wanting to meet everyone.”

That caught their attention.

Aika’s grin spread instantly, predatory and curious. “Ooooh, childhood friend, huh?”

Gudako tilted her head, intrigued but quiet. “You never mentioned her before.”

Issei blinked. “I didn’t? Huh, guess I forgot.”

Matsuda and Motohama froze mid-stretch, their heads slowly turning in unison.

“…Did you just say ‘childhood friend?’” Matsuda asked, voice trembling. 

“And you just said ‘She’, right?” Motohama asked.

Issei blinked innocently. “Uh, yeah?”

Motohama gasped as if the heavens themselves had betrayed him. “The legendary female childhood friend!? The one every romcom prophesies!?”

“YOU’VE BEEN HIDING HER!?” Matsuda shouted, grabbing Issei by the collar.

“What’s the big deal!?” Issei yelled, flailing. “She’s just my best friend!”

“JUST YOUR BEST FRIEND!?” they echoed dramatically. “You lucky bastard!”

Aika folded her arms, smirking like a cat watching a mouse panic. “Oh, this I’ve got to see. So, tell me—what’s she like? Cute? Quiet? Maybe secretly in love with you?”

Issei tilted his head, thinking. “Well, yeah, she’s cute, I guess. But she’s kinda shy. She’s a year younger and is still in junior high. She doesn’t really talk to new people that much.”

Gudako blinked. ‘Junior high…?’ She thought, a faint flicker of something unreadable crossing her expression.

Meanwhile, Matsuda and Motohama had gone into full meltdown mode. “HE’S GOT A CUTE YOUNGER CHILDHOOD FRIEND!?!”

“Fate is cruel!” Motohama wailed.

Aika covered her mouth, laughing. “You two are so dramatic.”

“Tell me about it,” Issei said, shaking his head. But then, suddenly, his tone changed as he remembered just who his friends are.

He straightened, resting both hands on their shoulders, his usual carefree grin replaced by something much more serious. The shift in his presence was immediate—the goofy boy replaced by someone unexpectedly firm.

Matsuda and Motohama froze. “…I-Issei?”

Issei leaned in slightly, his voice calm but heavy. “Now, I’m glad you two are coming but you two better behave at my house. Don’t make her feel uncomfortable. Don’t even think about saying something stupid around her. Got it?”

The pressure of his grip tightened just enough to make them wince.

“Y-yeah! Got it!” Matsuda squeaked.

“We’ll be perfect gentlemen!” Motohama added quickly, nearly tearing up.

“Good,” Issei said, releasing them with a satisfied grin. “Glad we understand each other.”

The two slumped over their desks, massaging their sore shoulders and whimpering.

Aika raised an eyebrow. “You’re really protective, huh?”

Issei laughed awkwardly. “Well, she’s been with me since we were kids. She’s important, you know?”

Gudako crossed her arms, studying him quietly, her eyes thoughtful. ‘So I get to meet her… the one who he grew up with,’ she thought. 

Aika grinned again. “Now I definitely have to meet this mystery girl. I wanna see what kind of saint managed to survive your perv phase.”

“Hey! I wasn’t that bad back then!”

Gudako snorted softly. “You were probably worse.”

Issei blinked. “...Okay, fair.”

The bell rang, signaling the start of class, but the mood remained light. As the teacher entered, the four exchanged glances, Aika amused, Gudako contemplative, Matsuda and Motohama still reeling, and Issei smiling blissfully.

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

Hyoudou Residence 

Laughter and chatter filled the narrow street as Issei walked ahead with his friends trailing behind, all buzzing with anticipation after school.

Issei led the way confidently, humming under his breath. “Alright, we’re almost there! My house is just up ahead.”

Aika adjusted her bag with a teasing grin. “Better be worth the walk, Hyoudou. You promised snacks and entertainment.”

“Don’t worry,” Issei said with a grin. “My mom goes all out when it comes to food. You’ll love her cooking.”

Matsuda nudged Motohama with a smirk. “Man, I still can’t believe he’s going to get a house full of girls.”

Motohama nodded dramatically. “Truly, he lives the life we can only dream of.”

Issei blinked. “What are you two whispering about?”

“Nothing!” They said in unison, looking far too suspicious.

Gudako walked quietly beside them, glancing at Issei now and then. 

The moment they turned the corner, Issei’s home came into view, a modest, warm-looking two-story house with potted plants by the entrance and the faint smell of food wafting from inside.

“Home sweet home,” Issei said proudly, stepping up to the door. “Alright, everyone—just relax, and don’t—” He didn’t get to finish.

The door flew open the instant he touched the handle, and suddenly—

“SURPRISE!”

A chorus of voices and a spray of colorful party poppers filled the air. Confetti fluttered around the doorway like tiny shooting stars.

Standing there were Miki Hyoudou and Gorou Hyoudou, both grinning ear to ear, alongside Zekka Miyamoto,dressed in a cute pink cardigan and skirt and her youthful grandmother, who exuded elegance in her simple kimono.

Issei froze, blinking in shock before letting out a sheepish laugh. “Y-you guys…didn’t have to go through the effort really?”

Miki giggled, clapping her hands. “Of course! You didn’t think we’d let your birthday pass quietly, did you?”

Gorou chuckled, crossing his arms. “You’re our only son, Issei. You don’t escape that easily.”

Zekka smiled warmly, her cheeks faintly pink. “Happy birthday, Issei.” Before he could respond, she stepped forward and hugged him tightly.

Issei blinked, surprised, but then smiled softly, returning the hug. “Heh… thanks, Zekka.”

She felt her heart flutter at his touch, her face heating up even more. ‘It’s fine… this is fine,’ She thought frantically, trying to calm herself. ‘It’s just a hug… for his birthday… totally normal.’

Meanwhile, standing just outside, Matsuda and Motohama stood frozen, jaws slack, eyes wide.

“D-dude,” Matsuda whispered hoarsely, “that’s the childhood friend!?”

“She’s… she’s beautiful,” Motohama stammered, adjusting his glasses that were beginning to fog. “And those… proportions… they defy mortal logic!”

Aika elbowed them both sharply. “Pick your jaws off the ground before I do it for you.”

While the boys whimpered in pain, Gudako crossed her arms, trying to look nonchalant, but her expression betrayed her. Watching Zekka’s arms around Issei sparked something strange in her chest. A small, sharp twist she didn’t quite understand.

‘Why do I feel like that? It’s just a hug…’ She thought, frowning slightly. ‘Still… she’s awfully close to him.’

The hug lingered a moment longer before Zekka reluctantly stepped back, brushing a lock of dark pink hair behind her ear. Her eyes flicked toward the group now entering the house.

She froze.

There were girls.

And not just one, two of them, walking side by side behind Issei.

“Uh, Issei,” She asked, her tone polite but her smile tight, “who are your… guests?”

“Oh right!” Issei said, perking up. “Guys, come in! I invited my school friends to join us.”

Miki and Gorou’s faces brightened immediately as they waved the group inside. “Welcome, welcome!” Miki said cheerfully. “Don’t be shy, make yourselves at home!”

“Sorry for dropping in unannounced,” Gudako said politely, bowing slightly.

“It’s no problem at all!” Miki said warmly. “You must be Gudako, right? Issei’s mentioned you a few times.”

Issei blinked. “I did?”

“You did,” His mother teased, smirking.

Aika snorted quietly. “Ooh, interesting…”

Zekka blinked, tilting her head slightly, curiosity sharpening her gaze. “So you’re Gudako. Issei told me about you.”

“Yep,” Gudako said with a smile that was a touch too sharp. “And you must be Zekka, right? The famous childhood friend.”

Their eyes met—two smiles, both polite. But the air between them crackled like static.

Aika watched from the side, instantly recognizing the shift in tone. The tension was subtle but palpable, the way Gudako’s friendly grin stiffened, the way Zekka’s shoulders straightened slightly, and how neither girl broke eye contact first.

She grinned to herself. ‘Ohhh, this just got good.’

Meanwhile, the boys were completely oblivious. Matsuda and Motohama were still dazed by Zekka’s beauty, while Issei chatted happily with his parents and Zekka’s grandmother.

“These are Matsuda, Motohama, Aika, and Gudako,” Issei said cheerfully. “And this here’s Zekka, my best friend since forever. And that’s her grandma.”

The group turned to the elegant woman beside Zekka. Her long black hair shimmered faintly under the light, and her expression was calm yet radiant.

Aika’s eyes widened as she whispered to Gudako, “Wait—that’s her grandmother? I thought it was her mom.”

Gudako blinked in disbelief. “She looks younger than some of our teachers.”

Matsuda leaned closer to Motohama, whispering, “Bro, I think I’m in love.”

“Focus, idiot,” Motohama hissed. “We’re witnessing divine genetics here.”

Issei, knowing what has surprised them, turned to explain for his friends. “Please don’t mind them, Obaa-chan.”

Her grandmother smiled serenely. “It’s quite alright, dear. Compliments are simply the consequence of good health and proper discipline.”

Aika grinned, whispering again, “Right… ‘discipline.’ Sure. I need to know her skincare routine.”

While the chatter filled the cozy living room, Zekka glanced once more toward Gudako. The redhead met her gaze and neither backed down nor were they smiling now.

It lasted only a few seconds, but the spark between them was unmistakable.

Aika looked at how the two girls acted and her smirk grew wider. “Oh yeah,” She murmured to herself, completely amused. “This birthday party just got way more interesting.”

—-------------------------------

The Hyoudou dining room glowed with warm light, the scent of freshly cooked food filling the air. Plates and bowls of Issei’s favorite dishes, curry, fried chicken, and rice balls lined the table to finally a strawberry cheesecake for dessert covered the long wooden table. 

Issei could be seen just drooling at the sight of the cheesecake.

The chatter of young voices mixed with the occasional clatter of chopsticks and laughter, creating a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that only the Hyoudou household could produce.

“Wow!” Matsuda said with his mouth half full. “This curry is amazing!”

Motohama nodded, already on his second serving. “Mrs. Hyoudou, you’re a culinary genius. I can feel my soul ascending.”

Miki laughed lightly from across the table. “Eat as much as you like! It’s rare for Issei to bring more friends over, so this is a treat for us too.”

“But this is amazing!” Gudako said with a grin as she took a bite. “You really made all of this yourself?”

“Please, call me Miki,” she replied warmly. “And thank you, Gudako-chan! I made sure to include all of Issei’s favorites.”

Across the table, Zekka smiled softly. “It smells wonderful, Miki-san. You always cook so well.”

Miki beamed. “Aww, thank you, sweetie. I wish Issei could learn a thing or two from you!” Miki then smiled proudly, wiping her hands on her apron. “Of course! Issei’s birthday deserves nothing less. He eats enough for three people anyway.”

“Mooom!” Issei groaned, embarrassed as everyone laughed.

Gorou leaned back in his chair, chuckling. “You should’ve seen him as a kid. He’d cry if his favorite food was made..”

“I was like five!” Issei protested, turning red.

“You should be proud! You were able to make some nice good friends.” Miki teased, pouring more tea into Gudako’s cup.

Aika snorted from beside her. “Nice? Maybe. But those three become trouble magnets every time they get together.”

Gorou, sitting at the head of the table, raised an eyebrow. “Oh? What kind of trouble are we talking about?”

Aika smirked. “Let’s just say these three,”—she gestured toward Issei, Matsuda, and Motohama—“have a talent for attracting chaos. Usually involving girls or some form of humiliation.”

“Hey!” Issei protested. “That’s not true!”

“Remember when you three tried to sneak into the kendo club practice to study their incredible form?” Aika reminded him, grinning.

Zekka, seated quietly beside him, choked on her tea, shocked. “You didn’t!”

Issei’s face turned bright red. “W-we were… curious! It was for educational purposes!”

Zekka in the end sighed and pinched the bridge of her nose. “You’ve always been like this, Issei…” Her tone was exasperated, but her lips curved into a small, affectionate smile.

Across the table, Zekka’s grandmother chuckled softly, her calm presence commanding quiet admiration. “Boys will be boys,” She said serenely, sipping her tea. “Though I wonder if you were into causing such trouble, Gorou?”

Gorou grinned proudly. “What can I say? The Hyoudou charm runs strong in our family.”

“Charm?” Miki scoffed, elbowing him lightly. “More like reckless optimism.”

Laughter rippled around the table.

As the meal went on, the conversation turned lively and varied. Gorou asked the students about school life, the clubs, and how they got along.

To no one’s surprise, Matsuda and Motohama proudly admitted to being “men of passion,” just like Issei which earned a synchronized sigh from both Zekka and Gudako.

Then, when the adults asked who Issei spent the most time with during school, Aika leaned forward with a mischievous grin. “Oh, that’s easy. He’s always hanging out with Gudako at school. They’re practically glued together.”

“Eh!?” Issei nearly choked on his food. “W-wait, that’s not—”

Gudako smirked, resting her chin in her hand. “What, are you denying it?”

Zekka’s eyes flicked toward them both, narrowing slightly. “You two seem… close.”

Issei rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly. “We’re just friends! Honest!”

Aika chuckled. “Sure, sure. That’s what everyone says at first.”

But beneath the cheerful chatter, a subtle tension had begun to form around the center of the table, specifically around Issei, who sat directly between Zekka and Gudako.

At first, it was harmless—light conversation, polite smiles. But gradually, something shifted.

On his left, Zekka leaned in slightly, offering him another piece of karaage with her chopsticks. “You like these, right, Issei? Here.”

“Ah, thanks, Zekka,” He said, smiling gratefully as he accepted it.

On his right, Gudako quickly followed suit, holding out a small bite of curry rice with a playful grin. “Careful, Issei. Don’t get full before you try this—it’s the best part.”

He blinked, looking from one side to the other, panic flickering in his eyes. “W-wait, uh—”

Then when Gudako turned to ask Issei if she wanted more tea, Zekka leaned in slightly, refilling his glass before he could say anything.

“There,” She said sweetly. “You always forget to drink enough during meals.”

Gudako blinked, a flicker of surprise and maybe challenge, crossing her face. “Zekka. You really look after him.”

Zekka smiled back. “Of course. Someone has to.”

Issei, oblivious, just chuckled. “You two get along fast!”

Aika nearly snorted rice through her nose trying not to laugh. Oh, they get along, all right.

Moments later, Gudako leaned slightly toward Issei, holding out a plate. “Try some of this, Issei—it’s really good. Here.” She used her chopsticks to place a piece of karaage on his plate.

Before he could say anything, Zekka did the same—offering him a bite of grilled fish. “You should eat something healthy too.”

Issei blinked between the two, utterly confused. “Uh… thanks?”

Across the table, Miki covered her mouth, smiling knowingly. Gorou smirked beside her. “Well,” he whispered, “looks like our boy’s in trouble.”

Miki chuckled softly. “You noticed too, huh?”

Meanwhile, Aika leaned back in her chair, watching the growing rivalry with visible amusement. “This is better than TV,” she muttered under her breath.

The girls’ subtle competition only intensified, with both leaning just a little closer every time.

Zekka’s grandmother, watching the dynamic quietly from the far end of the table, sipped her tea with a serene smile. Her wise eyes flicked between her granddaughter and Gudako before settling on Issei, who looked increasingly flustered but still hopelessly unaware.

‘Ah,’ She thought fondly, ‘so this is what youth looks like.’

Then, with a barely audible chuckle, she murmured under her breath, “Good luck, my dear granddaughter. You’ll need it.”

Zekka glanced briefly toward her grandmother, catching the amused glint in her eyes, and immediately felt her face warm. She quickly turned away, pretending to focus on her food.

Across from her, Gudako smiled as if nothing was wrong—but the faint spark in her orange eyes said otherwise.

The conversation continued—laughter, teasing, and stories flowing freely—but under the surface, the quiet battle between Zekka and Gudako for Issei’s attention had only just begun.

And as Miki prepared the cake, placing the candles and turning them on, Zekka’s grandmother watched with that same patient smile.

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

The moon hung high above the quiet streets of Kouh, its pale glow spilling gently through the Hyoudou family’s front gate. The laughter and noise of the party had faded into the soft hum of crickets and the clinking of dishes being washed inside.

Standing by the doorway, Issei Hyoudou stretched with a content sigh, his cheeks slightly sore from smiling so much. “Man… that was fun,” He said, watching as his guests prepared to leave.

“Thanks again for inviting us,” Aika said with her usual grin as she slipped on her shoes. “Your mom’s food was divine. I might crash your next birthday just for that.”

“Same here,” Gudako added, adjusting her bag. “It was nice meeting your parents. You’ve got a good family, Issei.”

Issei rubbed the back of his head bashfully. “Heh, yeah… they’re embarrassing, but I guess they’re not so bad.”

Matsuda and Motohama had already stumbled off earlier, still wondering how a grandmother was still so hot and beautiful. Now, it was just the three of them near the door—plus Zekka and her grandmother waiting politely by the gate.

“Hey,” Issei said, turning to the girls. “It’s already dark. You sure you don’t want me to walk you home?”

Aika waved him off with a mischievous smile. “Nah, we’ll be fine. You’ve already got company, after all.”

Gudako nodded in agreement. “Yeah, don’t worry about us. We can handle ourselves.”

He opened his mouth to insist, only to be caught completely off guard.

Because before he could say another word, Gudako stepped forward and hugged him.

It wasn’t a casual pat-on-the-back hug either—it was firm, warm, and full of quiet emotion. Her arms wrapped around him, and for a brief moment, the world went still.

Issei blinked, stiff at first, then slowly relaxed as he returned the gesture awkwardly. “Ah… you okay there, Gudako?”

She chuckled softly, her voice muffled against his shoulder. “Yeah. Just… thanks for the evening. It was nice meeting your family.”

“R-right,” Issei said, still stunned. “Anytime.”

When Gudako finally pulled back, there was a faint blush on her cheeks—but she masked it with her usual grin. “Happy birthday, Issei.”

Before he could even react, Aika tugged her along, her teasing smirk flashing like a warning. “C’mon, lover girl. Let’s go before you make his parents suspicious.”

Gudako sputtered. “A-Aika!”

“Night, Hyoudou!” Aika laughed as they walked off into the quiet street, waving over her shoulder.

Issei waved back, still dazed. “Night! Get home safe!”

Behind him, Zekka stood frozen near the gate, her face pale with shock. Her hands clenched tightly around a small wrapped box.

She hadn’t expected that. The hug. The look in Gudako’s eyes. The warmth between them. Something heavy coiled in her chest, jealousy, sharp and unfamiliar.

Her grandmother, watching silently beside her, smiled knowingly. “Well, that was quite a sight. I’ll be heading home, dear. Don’t stay out too late.”

Zekka blinked, regaining her composure. “Ah—yes, Grandmother. Goodnight.”

The older woman gave Issei a kind smile. “Thank you for having us, young Hyoudou. I hope you enjoyed your day.”

“I did, ma’am,” Issei said with a small bow. “Thanks for coming.”

With that, Zekka’s grandmother walked off into the night, her steps light and graceful—leaving the two childhood friends alone in the soft silver glow of the porch light.

Zekka stared at the gift in her hands, her heart thumping painfully in her chest. ‘Come on and say it. Give it to him. Just act normal.’

Then—

(If you really want to make him happy,) Came Tensei’s smug, echoing voice in her mind, (Just let him touch your breasts.)

Zekka’s face went red instantly. “TENSEI! SHUT UP!” She shouted mentally, nearly dropping the gift.

Issei blinked, startled. “Uh—Zekka? You okay? You just… yelled at the air.”

Her eyes widened. “I-I wasn’t yelling! I mean, I was! But not at you!”

“…You sure?” he asked cautiously.

“Yes!” she snapped, then quickly looked away, embarrassed. “I-It’s nothing, just forget it.”

Issei blinked again but shrugged. “Okay, if you say so…”

After a pause, she took a deep breath, clutching the box. “Here.”

She held it out to him, her hands trembling slightly. “Happy birthday, Issei.”

He blinked at the neatly wrapped gift, curiosity lighting up his face. “Huh? For me?”

“Of course it’s for you,” she said softly, smiling faintly. “I spent all week thinking about it.”

He unwrapped it carefully, eyes widening the moment he saw what was inside. “No way…! A Gundam model kit!? Zekka, this is awesome!” His excitement was genuine and boyish—his eyes sparkled like a kid on Christmas. “You even got the Master Grade version! These take forever to find!”

Zekka’s heart melted at his reaction. That radiant grin, the pure joy on his face—it was everything she wanted to see. “I know how much you like building them… so I thought, why not?”

Issei laughed happily. “You’re the best! Seriously, thank you so much!”

She smiled, cheeks warming. “You’re welcome, idiot.”

He laughed again and in that moment, Zekka knew. If she didn’t act now, she’d regret it. Before she could second-guess herself, she leaned forward, just a quick movement, soft and fleeting and pressed her lips against his cheek.

“Happy birthday, Issei,” she whispered, her face flushed bright red.

Issei froze, his brain short-circuiting completely. By the time he managed to process what had just happened—

Zekka was already halfway down the street, running like her life depended on it.

“Z-Zekka! Wait—what was that!?” He called out, but she didn’t turn back.

She only waved a trembling hand behind her before disappearing around the corner, her heart pounding wildly in her chest.

Issei stood there on the doorstep, his fingers brushing his cheek as if confirming it really happened. His face turned scarlet as he muttered to himself, “What… just happened?”

Whatever it was—it was going to make this birthday impossible to forget.

—------------------------------

One year later

Morning sunlight streamed through the window of the Miyamoto household, spilling over the polished wooden floor and the faint scent of sakura from the garden outside. The quiet rustle of fabric and the soft click of a belt buckle broke the peaceful silence.

Standing before her full-length mirror, Zekka Miyamoto carefully adjusted the collar of her Kouh Academy uniform. The black blazer and black ribbon contrasted beautifully with her long, two-toned hair which shimmered under the golden light. For a moment, she just stared at her reflection, her expression a mix of pride, nerves, and… excitement.

She took a deep breath, smoothing her skirt and exhaling slowly. “Finally…” she murmured to herself. “Kouh Academy.”

It had been a long year since that fateful birthday, the night she had impulsively kissed Issei on the cheek and ran away before he could say a word. A year filled with awkwardness, laughter, growing feelings, and an ongoing war between two girls who couldn’t seem to stop circling around the same boy.

Life hadn’t slowed down.

Issei had made it through another year of high school with his usual blend of chaos, charm, and occasional idiocy. He, Matsuda, and Motohama had somehow passed their exams, mostly through sheer luck and Gudako’s tutoring sessions (and Aika’s occasional threats).

Zekka, on the other hand, had graduated from junior high with top marks. Her grandmother, proud but serene as always, had said, “Your real journey begins now.” And now here she was officially a Kouh Academy student, about to walk through the same halls as Issei.

But it hadn’t been an easy year emotionally.

—---------------------------

In a random café. Laughter and chatter from nearby customers blended with the distant hum of traffic, creating a comfortable backdrop for the small group seated near the window, though “comfortable” wasn’t quite the right word to describe the air at their table.

Ever since Gudako and Zekka met things had never been quiet. The dynamic between the two girls always got… electric.

Not the gentle spark of friendship, but the kind of constant storm that brewed tension, heat, and the faint smell of danger whenever they were within three feet of each other.

At first, they’d tried to act civil, smiling, laughing, and pretending that neither existed whenever the other spoke to Issei. It almost fooled the others. Almost.

But that fragile peace had lasted about a week.

Now, whether it was during after-school hangouts, or their weekend trips, sparks flew like clockwork, all because of one clueless boy sitting between them.

—----------------------

The group’s first trip to the beach had gone from a relaxing getaway to a competitive battlefield faster than Aika could finish her soda.

Zekka, wearing a modest white bikini, had been quietly helping Issei set up the parasol when Gudako appeared behind him in a bright orange swimsuit, hands on her hips and a smirk that could kill.

“Need help, Issei?” She asked sweetly.

“Oh! Sure, thanks,” He said cheerfully, completely unaware of the metaphorical minefield he’d just stepped into.

Zekka froze mid-motion, her smile stiff. “I’ve got it handled,” She said coolly, tugging the parasol pole tighter into the sand.

Gudako crouched next to her anyway. “You look like you’re struggling.”

“I’m not.”

“Really? Because that looks like struggling.”

Zekka straightened. “I said I’m fine.”

The heat between them could have melted the ice in Aika’s drink.

From her beach chair, Aika tilted her sunglasses down just enough to watch the scene unfold, a grin spreading across her lips. “Here we go again,” she muttered.

Matsuda, already nursing a sunburn, groaned. “If this turns into another competition, I swear—”

“It already is,” Motohama interrupted, adjusting his glasses with a sigh. “And we’re front-row witnesses to the war for Issei’s affection.”

—------------------

At the summer festival, the rivalry hit new levels.

Zekka had shown up in a light pink yukata, her hair tied up with a delicate ribbon. Issei had complimented her immediately, causing her to flush with shy pride.

Then Gudako appeared, bold as ever, in a crimson yukata patterned with small gold flowers. The way Issei blinked in surprise and said, “You look amazing too, Gudako,” had set the tone for the night.

By the time fireworks lit the sky, both girls had found excuses to walk beside him.

Zekka reached for Issei’s sleeve when the crowd thickened.

Gudako grabbed his other arm “to keep him from getting lost.”

The two girls exchanged tight smiles that could have cracked porcelain.

Issei, utterly oblivious, simply looked up at the explosions in the sky. “Wow, these fireworks are awesome!”

Zekka and Gudako, meanwhile, were waging a silent war behind his back.

Aika, trailing behind them with a candy apple in hand, nearly choked trying not to laugh. “You two are hopeless,” she muttered under her breath. “He’s gonna die clueless, isn’t he?”

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

No matter the setting, birthdays, cafés, or arcades it was always the same. Both girls would find ways to sit beside him, talk to him, laugh at his dumb jokes, and compete for every scrap of his attention.

Once, at a café just like this one, Zekka had reached across the table to brush something off Issei’s cheek, a crumb from his pastry.

“Oh, you missed a spot,” She’d said softly, her tone gentle and fond.

Before Issei could respond, Gudako leaned over from the other side and wiped the same cheek with a napkin. “Nope, it’s still there,” she teased. “You need to be more careful when you eat, Issei.”

Issei blinked between them, confused and a little red. “Uh, thanks…?”

Across the table, Aika sipped her milkshake through a straw, hiding her grin behind the glass.

—------------------------------

No matter where they were, Aika Kiryuu was always there, an amused spectator to the drama unfolding before her.

She’d once told them with a playful glint in her eye, “You two should just duel already. Winner gets to confess first.”

“That’s ridiculous,” Zekka had replied immediately, cheeks flushed. “This isn’t a competition.”

Gudako had crossed her arms, smirking. “Don’t tempt me. I’d win anyway.”

The air between them crackled again, and Aika leaned back, chuckling. “I swear, this is better than TV.”

Meanwhile, Issei sat at the same table, completely missing the hidden tension as he scrolled through his phone. “Hey, check out this new limited-edition figure release!”

Zekka turned instantly. “You mean the one from Mecha Hero: Rebellion?”

Gudako blinked. “Wait, you like that series too?”

Issei grinned. “You both do?”

And just like that, the two girls were forced into temporary peace — only to start bickering again moments later over which pilot was the better one.

—----------------------

While the girls clashed, Matsuda and Motohama had slowly descended into madness.

“He’s living the dream!” Matsuda cried one afternoon at the mall, clutching his head dramatically. “Two beautiful girls fighting over him and he doesn’t even realize it!”

“It’s not fair!” Motohama yelled, grabbing him by the shoulders and shaking him. “He doesn’t even notice the flags he’s raising!”

Shoppers turned to stare. A mother shielded her child’s eyes.

“Do they… do this often?” Aika asked dryly, glancing at Zekka and Gudako.

Zekka sighed. “Every time.”

Gudako rolled her eyes. “Every single time.”

Issei, however, just laughed awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck. “They’re just joking, I swear.”

Aika smirked. “Sure, Hyoudou. Keep telling yourself that.”

—----------------------------

Through it all, Issei remained exactly the same, bright, sincere, and painfully dense. To him, Zekka and Gudako weren’t rivals or potential girlfriends. They were friends. Wonderful, confusing, beautiful friends.

And yet, sometimes when he caught Zekka’s soft smile, or when Gudako’s laughter lingered longer than usual, he felt something unfamiliar stir in his chest.

He didn’t know what it was, or why his heart beat a little faster whenever either of them got close.

But for now, he was happy just being surrounded by them. Even if, to everyone else, it looked like a battlefield disguised as friendship.

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

As for Issei and Zekka… that kiss had never truly disappeared between them.

There had been moments, countless, fleeting moments, where it came back up, only for one of them to dodge the subject.

Sometimes it was Zekka’s fault, too embarrassed to bring it up.

Sometimes it was Issei’s, too unsure if it had even meant what he thought it did.

“Hey, Zekka,” he’d asked once, during a walk home in the spring, “about that time—”

“—I told you it was nothing!” She’d blurted, her face crimson before bolting ahead.

He hadn’t pressed it since. But he hadn’t forgotten, either.

And though neither of them ever said it, their friendship had quietly shifted. The air between them was warmer now, heavier. Sometimes a tingling sensation was felt when their hands brushed, Zekka could feel her heart stutter. Sometimes, when she laughed, Issei would glance at her longer than he realized.

—---------------------------------

Zekka fastened her blazer, staring at herself for a long moment. “You can do this,” She told her reflection. “You’ve trained harder than anyone. You’ve waited long enough. You’re not just the little girl from the park anymore.”

Her grandmother’s voice echoed from the hallway, calm and composed as ever. “Zekka, are you ready?”

“Yes!” Zekka replied quickly. She took one last look at the mirror and adjusted her red ribbon. “Perfect.”

She picked up her school bag and stepped outside her room, the faint glint of her Sacred Gear’s seal hidden beneath the fabric of her chest.

(So, what’s the plan, partner?) Came Tensei’s voice inside her head, smug as ever. (Going to sweep him off his feet today?)

‘I’m just going to my new school,’ Zekka thought dryly. ‘Not to make a scene.’

(Oh please. One look at you in that uniform and he’s going to melt. Trust me.)

Zekka blushed and mentally shoved the spirit aside. ‘Quiet. Today’s important.’

As she stepped out of the house, the morning breeze brushed through her hair, carrying the scent of spring. Her grandmother watched her with an approving nod.

“You look beautiful, my dear,” she said. “Your new life begins today.”

Zekka smiled softly. “Thank you, Grandma.”And as she walked down the street toward Kouh Academy, her heart beat a little faster with every step.

Because she knew what awaited her there.

Finally done. Tell me what you think and if I made any mistakes. If it doesn’t it’s mostly because of how tired I am. This commission was brought to you by DillianFanfic. So be sure to thank him.