Baka-Tsuki - User contributions [en]

Talk:Zero no Tsukaima:Volume12 Story2 Chapter1

2010-04-20T04:25:28Z

RonnieCorny:

Paragraph one:
Basically Louise and Siesta are making him read out a testimony, or a contract which Saito has to sign... If it is his own personal testimony, he'll sign it after reading and understanding it, so that his preference for breasts is known and put to record...
If it is a contract, he's going to mention things that he'll need to do, or in fact not to do, from now on, possibly under fear of death...

I write this as there was not a precision about whether he's signing a testimony of facts, or he's agreeing to never touch big breasts ever again under penalty of death.

"Sylphid" is Tabitha's familiar and not a spell, so I'm guessing that the paragraph might be read as "Tabitha used Sylphid to save Saito..." I don't have the book with me right now to check, so I'm just guessing here... because if it's a spell, i would guess that it would be the "levitation" spell...

Talk:Zero no Tsukaima:Volume12 Story2 Chapter1

2010-04-20T04:23:07Z

RonnieCorny:

Toradora!:Spin-Off 2 Fall Fattened Tiger Chapter 2

2010-03-30T00:27:40Z

RonnieCorny:

<noinclude>==Fall-Fattened Tiger==</noinclude>
===Chapter 2===

☆Minori’s Diet Memo☆

Item 1! <Healthy eating!>

Eating well balanced meals. Of course, we cannot eat too much, but if stress builds up due to insufficient food, it is meaningless. After eating well, go running flat out for an hour.

Item 2! <Healthy Exercise!>

After leaving club activities, run flat out for two hours. Returning from school also, avoid accidents by running flat out. Get a part time job, then run flat out all the way home from your job.

Item 3! <Always Keep Moving!>

Don’t sit still at home. Don’t rest. Always have a plastic water bottle in your hand. If you go to the bathroom, then afterwards go for a walk, thirty minutes at a flat out run. If you watch the television, then afterwards go for a walk, fifteen minutes long at a flat out run. If you chat on the telephone, then afterwards go for a walk, after the call is over run flat out.

Item 4! <Pamper yourself every now and then!>

If the effort wears on you, then once in a while it’s all right to have a snack. If you have a snack, then go out for a walk, three hours of flat out running.

"...Huff...huff...huff..."

"...Huff...huff...huff..."

"...Huff...huff...huh..urp! Ack! ...Yech...”

"Taiga, wh... cough! ...Huff...huff...cough cough cough!"

"Yech... ye... yech..."

"... up ...!"

Off to a bad start.

It seems both of them wound up puking.

Eight o’clock in the evening, a bench in a small children’s park. The two of them were in really bad shape. Ordinary exercise can be nothing more than a routine, but doing all-out sprints after eating is not a good thing. It didn’t even bother Minori... Ryuuji clung to the bench, prostrate. Feeling nauseous, he frantically swallowed his bile. Poor Taiga, down on all fours, her nice ponytail all messed up, couldn’t even resist when a toy poodle, out for a walk, came over and sniffed her.

"Ta, iga… to the bench..."

"...Huff...huff..."

Her jersey sleeve shaking, Taiga grabbed the bench at once and pulled herself up. Taiga said nothing, she was so exhausted she was unable to sit properly on the bench. Then for some reason she pulled her cell phone out of her pocket and hit speed dial.

"Yo, Taiga! What’s up?"

"...Huff... huff... Mi, Mino... rin..."

"What’s all the excitement? Ah, wait a sec. ...hmm. ...yes, it’s OK. What’s up, what’s going on?"

"... Minorin... that... that, from school, that diet memo you gave me, well it’s a bit..."

"Ah, yes, yes. Are you putting it into practice?"

"...Impossible... coming from you, Minorin… walking and running flat out, is wrong, I think… people, usually, running like that, I think... as far as I’ve heard..."

"Are you kidding? Is that so? Taking the time to call while you’re walking, at a flat out run? Wow! Beast! A flat out sprint on a fall evening sure feels good!"

"...Huff...huff... ...Excuse me, I’m feeling a little bad... panting..."

"Eh, have you got a cold? Take care to sleep warmly!"

The phone call over, Taiga put the phone away in her pocket. She simply said, "I think this is the first time Minorin and I disagree."

On the verge of fainting, dizziness making it hard to think, Ryuuji tried to add it all up. Dinner had, in itself, been quite a production. The main course was fish instead of meat. The side dishes were vegetables, full of natural carbohydrates. They expected to moderate their calories without having to suffer much. They were thinking to have their meals this way for a while. Nevertheless, it was a "moderate" degree. Taiga had a bit of trouble getting into her new fall outfit, a flesh-color leotard. This, even though it was new clothing. So of course, refusing to exercise was not an option.

However, for anybody but Minori, recklessly running and running flat out is impossible. They had learned by their own experience that Minori was rather strange. For a normal human being it should be good enough to walk instead of running flat-out. Nobody but Minori could have proposed that "whenever you say walk, it means running flat out". Once a day should be sufficient, provide that one deliberately and without fail takes the opportunity to walk.

"Chestnut! Let’s go! Stop bothering the young lady's butt!"

At that moment, the toy poodle was very much absorbed in sniffing Taiga’s rear, its feet splayed out stubbornly, looking up at Taiga with moist eyes and barking eagerly with a charming voice. Taiga looked it over.

"...What’s with this little dog? Friendly little guy, he seems to be looking at me with love..."

"Kiyuun...", responding to that nose, "Ura!", she took off both her sneakers and went over in her stocking feet. "Ararara!", said the dog’s owner, an astonished lady, as she pulled on the leash. The dog was very excited. "Haga!", without warning everything went crazy. Next thing you know, "A-hahaha-ha-haii-yahha-!", laughter sounded as the dog pushed its face to Taiga’s feet, licked her socks, bug-eyed, belly showing while tears began to flow. In this world, there are truly all sorts of pets.

"... You, some kind of secretion must be coming from your feet..."

"It isn’t a secretion. It’s a pheromone. Shall we put some on your face?"

"No thanks, really. Just try doing that, and I’ll die."

Quite embarassed, the dog’s owner mumbled, "Sorry about that", escaping as quick as she could with the crazy dog. Watching that figure, Ryuuji thought, ''Dog, is it? ...Now I see. Things like that can be reasons to go walking.''

"...Dog, it’s just as well. Going out for a walk every day is not fun. But, if walking becomes a natural daily routine, it really ought to be as good as dieting."

"Hey you! That’s woman’s figure, did you notice?"

Having spoken to Taiga, Ryuuji now bit his lip. Having only really noticed the curly-haired toy poodle, if he could get another look at the pet owner he would have to apologize. People like Taiga cannot be compared to people with normal metabolisms.

"What are those awful eyes of yours looking at? Oh, something else has gone wrong. We can’t run anymore. That is, that guy is not likely to give up wandering around town. We absolutely have to go to the convenience store and do some shopping. Then we can have [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oden ''oden'']. And ice cream. ...If you try to do like those three fools, every day eating only bamboo shoots, shiitake, lotus roots, all you can do is get frustrated... Arrgh, it’s too unpleasant..."

"Absolutely, that."

Even in the best of times, Taiga is sullen by default. Ryuuji was exposed to the worst of her violence day after day, and what Taiga would be like, with yet more stress accumulating, getting yet more nervous, is terrifying to imagine. For the moment, easing the tension level by joking, the violent girl and the generous guy taking the abuse, the plan came into existence at the last moment. Turning it all into a joke is better than getting sent to the hospital. Hardly a matter for the police.

"... As far as extreme diets are concerned, I am opposed to them. Yet for us, there is still a way left."

"Eh, what, what? Ah, I have it! Liposuction!"

"Great. That should fly. Go ask an American celebrity."

Ryuuji got out his cellphone, looking for a particular address. Whether that sort of woman would be close to her phone on a Friday evening was a nice question... the call sounded twice, three times,

"... Eh, hello? So suddenly, it’s a big surprise. What’s up?"

Got through. It was their representative Japanese celebrity – Kawashima Ami.

"Oh, suddenly’s no good. That’s... a bit awkward, favors for both of you."

<center>* * *</center>

"---What’s with you? My clothing hobby is not strange!"

"Bakachii is wonderfully fashion-conscious by habit. Unusual, her hobby."

They met Saturday, their day off, at ten in the morning. At the same station as the three went to before, in front of the ticket gate. The weather was nice.

The three looked at each other without being too obvious: the area around the station was a little more prosperous than where Ryuuji and Taiga lived.

Ryuuji was wearing a T-shirt and denim pants, a parka styled like a traditional [http://www.bookmice.net/darkchilde/japan/haorikim.html ''haori''], and VANS sneakers. In his hand he had an eco-bag bought on a Kyoto field trip, a largish canvas tote bag from a famous store. Scary though his expression may be, his style was very much that of an ordinary high school boy. On the other hand, Ami was no less than you’d expect from a performer. On her small fist-like face there were Chanel-brand sunglasses. Her long hair was brought together in a bun, and over her long legs she wore cargo pants tied at the waist. On top, a thin, but probably absurdly high-priced tank top, with a knit cardigan over that, she was an aura model on display in a habitually simple style. Her sneakers were PUMA, but the tote she put to her shoulder was branded with the Chanel logo.

The problem was Taiga. Looking upon the scene, Ami had a scowl on her face.

"Rather unique, you might say... really making a statement, with both barrels! Aren’t you separating yourself just a bit!?"

"Even looking trashy can be good. In any case, meeting up with Ryuuji and Bakachi was just an excuse. It would be rather strange if going to the gym has become unfashionable", Taiga answered, unruffled.

From the start, she really loved ruffles and lace. Overskirt with the front buttons undone, unfashionably wearing petticoats and underskirts inside, that was Taiga’s standard fashion. Fluffed up and disheveled stuff, cardigans and sweaters too. Anyway, it’s like she had made a vow to dress in layers, using knits with flowers and suchlike attached randomly here and there, really girly, really flowery, frilly, lacy and with live cotton. The whole thing’s total price in a certain famous frilly brand turned out ridiculously high, and the first one should have been her favorite.

Taiga’s chosen fashion for today, first of all, was a T-shirt. Looking like just a white T-shirt, in fact it was young lady’s phys-ed class clothing, 'graduated' from the school. And then those tired old pajama pants. Gray and white striped, UNIQLO, they cost 980 yen. Barely wearing shoes, she had put on some rather cutesy girl-brand dress-up sneakers, and over the T-shirt she wore a windbreaker a few sizes too big. In fact, it looked like she was wearing one of Ryuuji’s jackets.

"Heh", laughed Taiga, looking defiant.

"Well, Bakachii, it looks like we can’t help but have you along with us. To be honest, my clothes aren’t just frilly stuff. It’s truly awful, having to dress this body for a little more volume. It’s all about volume. Seriously, I do too much along that line. Size is not a reason for not going somewhere, but rather a reason why you cannot wear something. ... You can laugh, at least for today. Anyway, I owe you a trip to the gym. Going to the gym for first time in your life can be a problem, all the more because you don’t have an experienced person by your side, and the going is rough. In fact, getting a good laugh might put you at ease. Go ahead and laugh, Bakachii. Laugh."

Through her light brown sunglasses, Ami looked carefully over Taiga’s (more accurately, Ryuuji’s) windbreaker. She double-checked the worn old T-shirt inside. She stepped back, said "Uwaaa...", and shook her head.

"... Sorry, but I can’t laugh. You’re just too pathetic..."

Taiga quietly looked up at Ryuuji.

"... Sometimes apologizing is easier than laughing at someone, eh, Ryuuji..."

"It can’t be helped. Well, it is right now. If you could slim down everything would be as before."

While Ryuuji and Taiga nodded at each other, agreeing in a easygoing manner, Ami, with a serious look on her face, finally took off her sunglasses.

"How can you two be so carefree about it all...! Honestly, you two talking about 'taking me with you to the gym', though I find it annoying to the core, something, Ami-chan, has now awoken. Rather volunteer minded, this feeling. Taiga dear, you are seriously dangerous. Your clothes don’t really matter. Let’s hurry up. If we don’t get on our way to the gym soon, things could get pretty bad. Let’s run, since it’s not far!"

No sooner did she say that, then Ami as if inspired by Minori suddenly began to cross the street at a trot. Ryuuji and Taiga, rather confused, gave chase.

---Well, it seems we receive according to how we dress ourselves.

"...This place’s atmosphere is surprisingly normal."

Ryuuji paid the 1500-yen visitor fee and changed into a rental outfit, a T-shirt and jersey shorts, then waited for the two girls to change, looking around at the machines lined up in a row. There was hardly anybody there, here and there a machine being used, really just neighborhood housewives, and by herself a rather plain office-worker.

In fact, Ami had been asked a few times for a personal tour of this gym by that fellow. It so happened that her parent’s home was near to [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Azabu Azabu], [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shirokane Shirokane] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omotesand%C5%8D,_Tokyo Omotesandou]. Having been brought to such a super-famous gym, they were slightly nervous with anticipation. Because she often stayed with relatives nearby, Ami was a current member and could bring them as guests. As far as Ryuuji was concerned, the place was more than good enough.

Whether or not it really suited him I cannot say, but for now he sat down on a bench near the locker room. According to the map of the inside of the building, on this floor was space for machines, and, separated by glass, there seemed to be a few studios. The studio menu had a wide variety of items, eventually they planned to try out some of them. And in the basement there was a pool and sauna. If it weren’t for Taiga’s glare, he by all means would have gone to try it out.

Painfully he paid 1500 yen more than he had planned to, though in truth Ryuuji had more than enough. Of course they wanted to get over the gloom from their fall fatness, but still, right now, it was 1500 yen. Now that they had grudgingly paid, they got to experience the gym. ''Glare'', his sanpaku eyes gloomily glowed.

"Takasu-kun, please wait---"

"Please wait."

<noinclude>
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; padding: 0.2em; border-collapse: collapse;"
|-
| Back to [[Toradora!:Spin-Off_2_Fall_Fattened_Tiger_Chapter_1|Chapter 1]]
| Return to [[Toradora%21|Main Page]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Zero no Tsukaima Registration

2010-03-16T13:54:56Z

RonnieCorny: /* Side Story Volume 1 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険 */

__NOTOC__

To re-iterate the registration procedure: please register your intended chapters here.

*This is not some Binding Contract of "I must do the work I put down here". Choices put down here are negotiable between translators (including their own selves who signed up for it).

===Volume 1 - The Zero's Familiar/ゼロの使い魔===
::*Insert & Back Cover - Kuroneko - '''Completed'''

'''Kingdom of Magic'''
::*Chapter 1 - [[user:Yuko|Yuko]] & [[user:Cala-kun|Cala-kun]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 2 - Kuroneko & [[user:Cala-kun|Cala-kun]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 3 - [[user:Sushi-Y|Sushi-Y]] & [[user:Cala-kun|Cala-kun]] - '''Completed'''

'''Gandalfr'''
::*Chapter 4 - [[user:Cala-kun|Cala-kun]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 5 - [[user:Claies|Claies]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 6 - [[user:Claies|Claies]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 7 - [[user:Claies|Claies]] [[user:TheDefend|(TheDefend]] ~Preview~) - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 8 - [[user:christof|christof]] - '''Completed'''

===Volume 2 - Albion of the Wind / 風のアルビオン===
::*Chapter 1 - [[user:christof|christof]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 2 - [[user:Claies|Claies]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 3 - [[user:GDsMDDLFNGR|GDsMDDLFNGR]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 4 - [[user:christof|christof]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 5 - [[user:naturesbless|naturesbless]] (10%) + [[user:ArchmageXin|ArchmageXin]] (90%) - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 6 - [[user:Claies|Claies]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 7 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 8 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 9 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)

===Volume 3 - The Founder's Prayer Book / 始祖の祈祷書===
::*Chapter 1 - [[user:Xorius|Xorius]] ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~) - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 2 - [[user:Momogan|Momogan]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 3 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 4 - [[user:Momogan|Momogan]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 5 - [[user:Momogan|Momogan]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 6 - [[user:Momogan|Momogan]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 7 - [[user:Momogan|Momogan]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 8 - [[user:Momogan|Momogan]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 9 - [[user:Momogan|Momogan]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 10 - [[user:Momogan|Momogan]] - '''Completed'''

===Volume 4 - The Water Spirit of Oath / 誓約の水精霊===
::*Prologue - [[user:Momogan|Momogan]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 1 - [[user:Momogan|Momogan]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 2 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 3 - [[user:Serenade beta|Serenade beta]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 4 - None ([[User:Matt122004|Matt122004]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 5 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 6 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 7 - None ([[user:R6|R6]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 8 - [[user:Serenade beta|Serenade beta]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 9 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Epilogue - [[user:Serenade beta|Serenade beta]] - '''Completed'''

===Volume 5 - Tristania's Holiday / トリスタニアの休日===
::*Chapter 1 - [[user:Serenade beta|Serenade beta]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 2 - [[user:Vertiful|Vertiful]]+[[user:Tomojo|Tomojo]]+[[user:ShadowZeroHeart|ShadowZeroHeart]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 3 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)

===Volume 6 - The Ruby of Atonement / 贖罪の炎赤玉===
::*Chapter 1 - [[user:ShApEsHiFt3r|ShApEsHiFt3r]] (Omega037, first 5%) - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 2 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 3 - [[user:ShApEsHiFt3r|ShApEsHiFt3r]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 4 - [[user:Serenade beta|Serenade beta]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 5 - [[user:ShadowZeroHeart|ShadowZeroHeart]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 6 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 7 - [[user:Xorius|Xorius]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 8 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)

===Volume 7 - The Silver Pentecost / 銀の降臨祭===
::*Chapter 1 - [[user:Yezhanquan|Yezhanquan]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 2 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 3 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 4 - [[user:Serenade beta|Serenade beta]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 5 - [[user:Xorius|Xorius]] ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 6 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 7 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 8 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 9 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 10 - [[user:ArchmageXin|ArchmageXin]] ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Epilogue - [[user:ArchmageXin|ArchmageXin]]

===Volume 8 - The Serenade of Nostalgia / 望郷の小夜曲===
::*Chapter 1 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 2 - None (dropped by [[user:ArchmageXin|ArchmageXin]] at 20%) ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 3 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 4 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 5 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 6 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 7 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 8 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 9 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 10 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Epilogue - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)

===Volume 9 - The Ball of Twin Moons / 双月の舞踏会===
::*Chapter 1 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 2 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 3 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 4 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 5 - [[user:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 6 - [[user:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 7 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 8 - [[user:Xorius|Xorius]] ([[user:Novaren|Novaren]] ~Preview~) - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 9 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Epilogue - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''

===Volume 10 - The Hero of Ivaldi / イーヴァルディの勇者===
::*Chapter 1 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 2 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 3 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 4 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 5 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 6 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 7 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 8 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 9 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 10 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Epilogue - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''

===Volume 11 - A Duet of Recollection / 追憶の二重奏===
::*Chapter 1 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 2 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 3 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 4 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 5 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 6 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 7 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 8 - [[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]]
::*Chapter 9 - [[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]]
::*Chapter 10 -
::*Epilogue -

===Volume 12 - The Fairies' Holiday / 妖精達の休日===
::*Prologue - [[User:SeiryuuChan|SeiryuuChan]] - '''completed'''
'''New Student from the White Country (Albion)'''
::*Chapter 1 - [[User:SeiryuuChan|SeiryuuChan]] - '''completed''' submitted on 23-01-2009
::*Chapter 2 - None ([[user:Kazesenken|Kazesenken]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 3 - None ([[user:Kazesenken|Kazesenken]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 4 - None ([[user:Kazesenken|Kazesenken]] ~Preview~)
'''Knight Corps of the Water Spirit, Charge!'''
::*Chapter 1 -
::*Chapter 2 -
'''Right to Use Saito for a Day'''
::*Chapter 1 -
::*Chapter 2 -

===Volume 13 - The World Door of the Holy Country / 聖国の世界扉===
::*Chapter 1 -
::*Chapter 2 -
::*Chapter 3 -
::*Chapter 4 -
::*Chapter 5 -
::*Chapter 6 -
::*Chapter 7 - [[User:Matt122004|Matt122004]] - '''completed'''
::*Chapter 8 - [[User:SeiryuuChan|SeiryuuChan]] - '''completed'''
::*Epilogue

===Volume 14 - Aquileia's Saint / 水都市の聖女===
::*Chapter 1 -
::*Chapter 2 -
::*Chapter 3 -
::*Chapter 4 -
::*Chapter 5 -
::*Chapter 6 -
::*Chapter 7 -
::*Chapter 8 -
::*Chapter 9 -
::*Epilogue -

===Volume 15 - Labyrinth of Oblivion / 忘却の夢迷宮===
::*Chapter 1 -
::*Chapter 2 -
::*Chapter 3 -
::*Chapter 4 -
::*Chapter 5 -
::*Chapter 6 -
::*Chapter 7 -
::*Chapter 8 -
::*Chapter 9 -
::*Epilogue -

===Volume 16 - The Tea Time of Des Ornières / ド・オルニエールの安穏===
::*Chapter 1 -
::*Chapter 2 -
::*Chapter 3 -
::*Chapter 4 -
::*Chapter 5 -
::*Chapter 6 -
::*Chapter 7 -
::*Chapter 8 -
::*Chapter 9 -
::*Chapter 10-
::*Epilogue -

===Side Story Volume 1 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険===
::*Story 1 - [[user:RonnieCorny|RonnieCorny]] - (36%)'
::*Story 2 -
::*Story 3 -
::*Story 4 -

===Side Story Volume 2 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険2===
::*Story 5 - [[user:Trewth|Trewth]] - '''Completed'''
::*Story 6 -
::*Extra Chapter - [[user:Trewth|Trewth]] - '''Completed'''
::*Story 7 -
::*Story 8 -

[[Category:Registration Page]]

Zero no Tsukaima Registration

2010-03-16T13:54:03Z

RonnieCorny: /* Side Story Volume 1 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険 */

__NOTOC__

To re-iterate the registration procedure: please register your intended chapters here.

*This is not some Binding Contract of "I must do the work I put down here". Choices put down here are negotiable between translators (including their own selves who signed up for it).

===Volume 1 - The Zero's Familiar/ゼロの使い魔===
::*Insert & Back Cover - Kuroneko - '''Completed'''

'''Kingdom of Magic'''
::*Chapter 1 - [[user:Yuko|Yuko]] & [[user:Cala-kun|Cala-kun]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 2 - Kuroneko & [[user:Cala-kun|Cala-kun]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 3 - [[user:Sushi-Y|Sushi-Y]] & [[user:Cala-kun|Cala-kun]] - '''Completed'''

'''Gandalfr'''
::*Chapter 4 - [[user:Cala-kun|Cala-kun]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 5 - [[user:Claies|Claies]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 6 - [[user:Claies|Claies]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 7 - [[user:Claies|Claies]] [[user:TheDefend|(TheDefend]] ~Preview~) - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 8 - [[user:christof|christof]] - '''Completed'''

===Volume 2 - Albion of the Wind / 風のアルビオン===
::*Chapter 1 - [[user:christof|christof]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 2 - [[user:Claies|Claies]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 3 - [[user:GDsMDDLFNGR|GDsMDDLFNGR]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 4 - [[user:christof|christof]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 5 - [[user:naturesbless|naturesbless]] (10%) + [[user:ArchmageXin|ArchmageXin]] (90%) - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 6 - [[user:Claies|Claies]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 7 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 8 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 9 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)

===Volume 3 - The Founder's Prayer Book / 始祖の祈祷書===
::*Chapter 1 - [[user:Xorius|Xorius]] ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~) - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 2 - [[user:Momogan|Momogan]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 3 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 4 - [[user:Momogan|Momogan]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 5 - [[user:Momogan|Momogan]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 6 - [[user:Momogan|Momogan]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 7 - [[user:Momogan|Momogan]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 8 - [[user:Momogan|Momogan]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 9 - [[user:Momogan|Momogan]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 10 - [[user:Momogan|Momogan]] - '''Completed'''

===Volume 4 - The Water Spirit of Oath / 誓約の水精霊===
::*Prologue - [[user:Momogan|Momogan]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 1 - [[user:Momogan|Momogan]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 2 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 3 - [[user:Serenade beta|Serenade beta]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 4 - None ([[User:Matt122004|Matt122004]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 5 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 6 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 7 - None ([[user:R6|R6]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 8 - [[user:Serenade beta|Serenade beta]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 9 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Epilogue - [[user:Serenade beta|Serenade beta]] - '''Completed'''

===Volume 5 - Tristania's Holiday / トリスタニアの休日===
::*Chapter 1 - [[user:Serenade beta|Serenade beta]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 2 - [[user:Vertiful|Vertiful]]+[[user:Tomojo|Tomojo]]+[[user:ShadowZeroHeart|ShadowZeroHeart]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 3 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)

===Volume 6 - The Ruby of Atonement / 贖罪の炎赤玉===
::*Chapter 1 - [[user:ShApEsHiFt3r|ShApEsHiFt3r]] (Omega037, first 5%) - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 2 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 3 - [[user:ShApEsHiFt3r|ShApEsHiFt3r]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 4 - [[user:Serenade beta|Serenade beta]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 5 - [[user:ShadowZeroHeart|ShadowZeroHeart]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 6 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 7 - [[user:Xorius|Xorius]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 8 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)

===Volume 7 - The Silver Pentecost / 銀の降臨祭===
::*Chapter 1 - [[user:Yezhanquan|Yezhanquan]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 2 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 3 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 4 - [[user:Serenade beta|Serenade beta]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 5 - [[user:Xorius|Xorius]] ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 6 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 7 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 8 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 9 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 10 - [[user:ArchmageXin|ArchmageXin]] ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Epilogue - [[user:ArchmageXin|ArchmageXin]]

===Volume 8 - The Serenade of Nostalgia / 望郷の小夜曲===
::*Chapter 1 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 2 - None (dropped by [[user:ArchmageXin|ArchmageXin]] at 20%) ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 3 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 4 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 5 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 6 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 7 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 8 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 9 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 10 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Epilogue - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)

===Volume 9 - The Ball of Twin Moons / 双月の舞踏会===
::*Chapter 1 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 2 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 3 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 4 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 5 - [[user:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 6 - [[user:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 7 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 8 - [[user:Xorius|Xorius]] ([[user:Novaren|Novaren]] ~Preview~) - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 9 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Epilogue - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''

===Volume 10 - The Hero of Ivaldi / イーヴァルディの勇者===
::*Chapter 1 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 2 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 3 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 4 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 5 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 6 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 7 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 8 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 9 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Chapter 10 - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''
::*Epilogue - [[User:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]] - '''Completed'''

===Volume 11 - A Duet of Recollection / 追憶の二重奏===
::*Chapter 1 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 2 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 3 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 4 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 5 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 6 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 7 - None ([[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 8 - [[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]]
::*Chapter 9 - [[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]]
::*Chapter 10 -
::*Epilogue -

===Volume 12 - The Fairies' Holiday / 妖精達の休日===
::*Prologue - [[User:SeiryuuChan|SeiryuuChan]] - '''completed'''
'''New Student from the White Country (Albion)'''
::*Chapter 1 - [[User:SeiryuuChan|SeiryuuChan]] - '''completed''' submitted on 23-01-2009
::*Chapter 2 - None ([[user:Kazesenken|Kazesenken]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 3 - None ([[user:Kazesenken|Kazesenken]] ~Preview~)
::*Chapter 4 - None ([[user:Kazesenken|Kazesenken]] ~Preview~)
'''Knight Corps of the Water Spirit, Charge!'''
::*Chapter 1 -
::*Chapter 2 -
'''Right to Use Saito for a Day'''
::*Chapter 1 -
::*Chapter 2 -

===Volume 13 - The World Door of the Holy Country / 聖国の世界扉===
::*Chapter 1 -
::*Chapter 2 -
::*Chapter 3 -
::*Chapter 4 -
::*Chapter 5 -
::*Chapter 6 -
::*Chapter 7 - [[User:Matt122004|Matt122004]] - '''completed'''
::*Chapter 8 - [[User:SeiryuuChan|SeiryuuChan]] - '''completed'''
::*Epilogue

===Volume 14 - Aquileia's Saint / 水都市の聖女===
::*Chapter 1 -
::*Chapter 2 -
::*Chapter 3 -
::*Chapter 4 -
::*Chapter 5 -
::*Chapter 6 -
::*Chapter 7 -
::*Chapter 8 -
::*Chapter 9 -
::*Epilogue -

===Volume 15 - Labyrinth of Oblivion / 忘却の夢迷宮===
::*Chapter 1 -
::*Chapter 2 -
::*Chapter 3 -
::*Chapter 4 -
::*Chapter 5 -
::*Chapter 6 -
::*Chapter 7 -
::*Chapter 8 -
::*Chapter 9 -
::*Epilogue -

===Volume 16 - The Tea Time of Des Ornières / ド・オルニエールの安穏===
::*Chapter 1 -
::*Chapter 2 -
::*Chapter 3 -
::*Chapter 4 -
::*Chapter 5 -
::*Chapter 6 -
::*Chapter 7 -
::*Chapter 8 -
::*Chapter 9 -
::*Chapter 10-
::*Epilogue -

===Side Story Volume 1 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険===
::*Story 1 - [[user:RonnieCorny|RonnieCorny]] - '''Completed'''
::*Story 2 -
::*Story 3 -
::*Story 4 -

===Side Story Volume 2 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険2===
::*Story 5 - [[user:Trewth|Trewth]] - '''Completed'''
::*Story 6 -
::*Extra Chapter - [[user:Trewth|Trewth]] - '''Completed'''
::*Story 7 -
::*Story 8 -

[[Category:Registration Page]]

Zero no Tsukaima

2010-03-12T12:56:40Z

RonnieCorny: /* Volume 12 - The Fairies' Holiday / 妖精達の休日 */

[[Image:Znt novel cover.jpg|300px|thumb|Vol.One Cover]]

The ''Zero no Tsukaima'' series is also available in the following languages:
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%28version_fran%C3%A7aise%29|Français (French)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_Deutsche Version|Deutsch (German)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%7E_Indonesian_Version|Bahasa Indonesia (Indonesian)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%7EItalian_Version%7E|Italiano (Italian)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_Korean_Version|한국어 (Korean)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_wersja_polska|Polski (Polish)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_~Russian_Version~|Русский (Russian)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%7EVersi%C3%B3n_Espa%C3%B1ola%7E|Español (Spanish)]]
*[http://vnsharing.net/forum/showthread.php?t=73861 Việt Nam (Vietnamese)]

(Note: Translation progress varies for each version.)
----
Visit the [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/index.php Baka-Tsuki Project Forum] to discuss this series and other information from Baka-Tsuki.

== Updates == 

*September 10, 2009:
:* [[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Full Text|Volume 10 full-text version]] is up.

Older updates can be found on the [[Zero_no_Tsukaima_news_archive|ZnT news archive]].

== Translation ==

=== Translators Needed ===

'''Baka-Tsuki is desperately looking for translators for this series.''' If you would like to help translate this series, please post in the forums [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=25&t=714&start=135 here], and we will help you get started. Thank you.

=== [[Zero no Tsukaima Registration|Registration]] ===
Translators are requested to mark all the chapters they are translating on the [[Zero no Tsukaima Registration|Registration Page]] according to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Guideline#Translation_Management|Translation Management]] section of ''Zero no Tsukaima'' [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Guideline|Project Specific Guidelines]].
=== Format Standards ===
Every chapter (after editing) must conform to the agreed points highlighted in [[Format_guideline|Format/Style Guideline]].

Some of these chapters are translations of the '''Chinese edition''' of the novels, which are known to have some minor mistakes compared to the original Japanese text. If you have access to the originals and you spot an error, '''please feel free to make the corrections yourself''' - this is a Wiki which means it's meant for anyone to fix things (and if you screw up, we can revert back your changes if all deem necessary). We can see the corrections you make, so just go ahead instead of hiding or waiting for permission.

[http://www.baka-tsuki.net/project/index.php?title=Zero_no_Tsukaima:guidelines Naming Conventions For ZnT]

=== Joint Collaboration ===
This Project was a [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=246 joint collaboration] with the following groups:
* [http://kh.beyondeternal.com/ Kawaii Heavens] (who also worked on the manga version of this series)
::*Volume 1 (all chapters)


*[http://www.k-neko.net/ Kuroneko]
::*Volume 1, Chapter 1
::*Volume 1, Chapter 2

== ''Zero no Tsukaima'' series by Noboru Yamaguchi ==
=== Volume 1 - Zero's Familiar / ゼロの使い魔 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume1_Insert_&_Back Cover|Insert & Back Cover]]
'''Kingdom of Magic'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - I'm a Familiar]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Louise the Zero]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Legend]]
'''Gandálfr'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - A Familiar's Day]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Kirche the Ardent]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Tristain's Arms Dealer]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Staff of Destruction]]

=== Volume 2 - Albion of the Wind / 風のアルビオン [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - A Secret Boat]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Her Majesty's Melancholy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - A Childhood Friend's Request]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Port City - La Rochelle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - A Rest Day Before Leaving]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The White Country]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - The Prince of a Dying Country]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - The Eve before the Final Battle in Newcastle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - The Final Battle]]

=== Volume 3 - The Founder's Prayer Book / 始祖の祈祷書 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter1_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 1 - Lineage of Zero]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Louise's Lovesickness]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - The Founder's Prayer Book]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Love Triangle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - The Arsenal and the Royal Family]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Treasure Hunting]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Dragon's Raiment]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - Colbert's Laboratory]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter9|Chapter 9 - Declaration of War]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter10|Chapter 10 - The Void]]

=== Volume 4 - The Water Spirit of Oath / 誓約の水精霊 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Prologue|Prologue]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The Saint]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Saito Goes Shopping in the Triumphant Town]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - The Sailor Outfit and Louise's Jealousy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter4_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 4 - Tabitha's Secret]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter5_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 5 - The Strength of a Love Potion]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - The Water Spirit]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - The Ring of Andvari]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - Reunion with Falsehood]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - Confrontation of Sadness]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Epilogue|Epilogue]]

=== Volume 5 - Tristania's Holiday / トリスタニアの休日 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The "Charming Fairies" Inn]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - The Encounter with the Flame and the Friendship with the Wind]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - Tristania's Holiday]]

=== Volume 6 - The Ruby of Atonement / 贖罪の炎赤石 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - Homecoming]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Cattleya]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Duke de La Vallière]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Commanding Officer Guiche and Officer Cadet Malicorne]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Flame of Twenty Years Ago]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - Sortie]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - The Illusion at Dartanes]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - The Atonement of Flame]]

=== Volume 7 - The Silver Pentecost / 銀の降臨祭 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The Temperature Difference between the Two]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Fairy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - The Priest of Romalia]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - The Secretary and the Emperor]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - The Ancient City of Saxe-Gotha]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - Truce]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - The Reason to Fight]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - King of Gallia]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - Rout]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter10|Chapter 10 - The Place of Courage]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Epilogue|Epilogue]]

=== Volume 8 - The Serenade of Nostalgia / 望郷の小夜曲 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter1_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 1 - Each End of the War]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Saito's Morning]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - The Golden Elf]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter4_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 4 - The Visit of the Priest]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter5_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 5 - The Disappearing Gandálfr]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - The Nations Conference]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - Louise's Decision]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - The Users of Void]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - Myoznitnirn]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter10_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 10 - Swordsman]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Epilogue_%7EPreview%7E| Epilogue]]

=== Volume 9 - The Ball of Twin Moons / 双月の舞踏会 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter1 ~Preview~|Chapter 1 - Louise's Fear]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter2 ~Preview~|Chapter 2 - The Elf of the Forest]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter3 ~Preview~|Chapter 3 - The Meeting and Parting of the Users]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter4 ~Preview~|Chapter 4 - The Chevalier Title]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Ondine ・ Knight Corps of the Water Spirit]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The Feelings of the Queen]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Solicitation]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Ball of Sleipnir]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume9 Chapter9|Chapter 9 - The Confrontation with the Mysterious Bird]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume9 Epilogue|Epilogue]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume9 Translator's Notes|Translator's Notes]]

=== Volume 10 - The Hero of Ivaldi / イーヴァルディの勇者 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The ''Ostland'']]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Chapter2|Chapter 2 - The Elf]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Anxiety and Jealousy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - The Queen and the Knights]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Siblings]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The Imprisoned Six]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Settlement of the Past]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Old Mansion of Orléans]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter9|Chapter 9 - Alhambra Castle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter10|Chapter 10 - The Hero of Ivaldi]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Epilogue|Epilogue]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Postscript|Postscript]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Translator's Notes|Translator's Notes]]

=== Volume 11 - A Duet of Recollection / 追憶の二重奏===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume11_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter1|Chapter 1 - Von Zerbst]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter2|Chapter 2 - The Queen and the Duke]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Karin the Heavy Wind]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter4|Chapter 4 - The Vallière Family]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter5|Chapter 5 - New School Term]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Private Lesson]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter7|Chapter 7 - The Pope of Romalia]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter8|Chapter 8 - Jörmungand]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter9|Chapter 9 - Reunion in Westwood]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter10|Chapter 10 - The Heart of the Duet]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume11_Epilogue|Epilogue]]

=== Volume 12 - The Fairies' Holiday / 妖精達の休日===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Prologue|Prologue]]
''' New Student from the White Country (Albion)'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Chapter4|Chapter 4]]
'''Knight Corps of the Water Spirit, Charge!'''
::*Chapter 1
::*Chapter 2
'''Right to Use Saito for a Day'''
::*Chapter 1
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Section3_Chapter2|Chapter 2]] (1%)

=== Volume 13 - The World Door of the Holy Country / 聖国の世界扉===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Romalia
::*Chapter 2 - Saito's Decision
::*Chapter 3 - Aboard the ''Ostland''
::*Chapter 4 - The Two Knight Corps
::*Chapter 5 - The Persuasion of the Pope
::*Chapter 6 - Long Spear
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - World Door]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Meaning of the Smile]]
::*Epilogue

===Volume 14 - Aquileia's Saint / 水都市の聖女===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume14_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - The Flowerbed Squadron's Rebellion
::*Chapter 2 - The Third Annual Enthronement Ceremony
::*Chapter 3 - An Elven Gandalfr
::*Chapter 4 - The Capital of Water
::*Chapter 5 - Six Thousand Years Ago
::*Chapter 6 - Tiger Highway
::*Chapter 7 - Aquileia's Saint
::*Chapter 8 - The Steel Tiger
::*Chapter 9 - The Memory of the Bond
::*Epilogue

===Volume 15 - Labyrinth of Oblivion / 忘却の夢迷宮 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume15_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Carcassonne
::*Chapter 2 - The Knight Contest of the Sandbank
::*Chapter 3 - A Shaken Mind
::*Chapter 4 - The Jewel of Fire
::*Chapter 5 - Honeymoon
::*Chapter 6 - Tabitha's Long Night
::*Chapter 7 - Henrietta's Diplomatic Plan
::*Chapter 8 - Coronation
::*Chapter 9 - The Exit of the Labyrinth
::*Epilogue

===Volume 16 - The Tea Time of Des Ornières / ド・オルニエールの安穏 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume16_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - The Reward of the Campaign 
::*Chapter 2 - Searching for a Residence 
::*Chapter 3 - Henrietta's Melancholy, Louise's Anxiety, Saito's Promotion 
::*Chapter 4 - Mother and Cousin 
::*Chapter 5 - Saito Chevalier De Hiraga Des Ornières 
::*Chapter 6 - Daily Tea Time 
::*Chapter 7 - Eléonore's Academy 
::*Chapter 8 - The Basement of the Residence 
::*Chapter 9 - Secret Meeting 
::*Chapter 10 - 元素の兄弟
::*Epilogue

===Volume 17 - The Soeur of Dawn / 黎明の修道女 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume17_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Saito's despair 
::*Chapter 2 - Flight 
::*Chapter 3 - Meeting and Comrade 
::*Chapter 4 - Sulpice 
::*Chapter 5 - First meeting with Jack 
::*Chapter 6 - Damien and Lord Gondrin 
::*Chapter 7 - Soeur Louise 
::*Chapter 8 - Josette's Resolution 
::*Chapter 9 - Two Canes, One Crown 
::*Chapter 10 - Garden Party to Celebrate the Enthronement 
::*Chapter 11 - Bonds 
::*Epilogue

===Volume 18 - Spirit Stone of Destruction / 滅亡の精霊石 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume18_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Lovers 
::*Chapter 2 - Fouquet and Wardes 
::*Chapter 3 - Josette's Garden Party 
::*Chapter 4 - Strategy 
::*Chapter 5 - Confession of the Pope 
::*Chapter 6 - Spirit Stone of Destruction 
::*Chapter 7 - Our Home 
::*Chapter 8 - Elf of the Sahara 
::*Chapter 9 - Chance meeting 
::*Epilogue

=== Side Story Volume 1 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume1_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume1_Story1|Story 1 - Tabitha and the Pterosaur (36%)]]
::*Story 2 - Tabitha and the Vampire
::*Story 3 - Tabitha and the Assassin
::*Story 4 - Tabitha and the Magic Doll

=== Side Story Volume 2 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険2===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume2_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume2_Story5|Story 5 - Tabitha and the Gambler]]
::*Story 6 - Tabitha and the Minotaur
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume2_ExtraChapter|Extra Chapter - A Day in the Life of Sylphid]]
::*Story 7 - Tabitha and the Bird of Paradise
::*Story 8 - Tabitha and the Naval Port

=== Side Story Volume 3 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険3===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume3_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Story 9 - Tabitha and Sylphid
::*Story 10 - Tabitha and the old Warrior
::*Story 11 - Tabitha and first Love
::*Story 12 - Tabitha's Birth

== Project Staff ==
*Project Administrator: [[user:Onizuka-gto|Onizuka-gto]]
*Project Supervisor: [[user:Vaelis|Vaelis]]

=== Translators ===
'''ACTIVE'''
::*[[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]]
::*[[user:Kazesenken|Kazesenken]]
::*[[user:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]]

'''INACTIVE'''
::*[[user:ArchmageXin|ArchmageXin]]
::*[[user:Momogan|Momogan]]
::*[[user:SeiryuuChan|SeiryuuChan]]
::*[[user:Serenade_beta|Serenade beta]]
::*[[user:ShApEsHiFt3r|ShApEsHiFt3r ]]
::*[[user:Trewth|Trewth ]]
::*[[user:Xorius|Xorius]]

'''A.W.O.L'''
::*[[user:christof|christof]]
::*[[user:Claies|Claies]]
::*[[user:Vertiful|Vertiful]]

'''M.I.A'''
::*[[user:Cala-kun|Cala-kun]]
'''K.I.A'''
::*[[user:naturesbless|naturesbless]]
::*[[user:Nidema|Nidema]]
::*[[user:SaiyaJedi|SaiyaJedi]] <- aka "SaitoFromEarth"
::*[[user:Sushi-Y|Sushi-Y]]

=== Editors ===
This is the Project Editorial Team.
They will regularly patrol the projects to prevent vandalism & make sure the guidelines are implemented. If you have any inquiries about certain edits please contact any one of the members.

'''ACTIVE'''
::*[[user:Onizuka-gto|Onizuka-gto]]
::*[[user:DeotoxSlayer|DeotoxSlayer]]
::*[[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]]
::*[[user:Akirasav|Akira]]
::*[[user:BakaSama|BakaSama]]
'''A.W.O.L'''
::*[[user:Bicube|Bicube]]
::*[[user:BaKaFiSh|BaKaFiSh]]
::*[[user:Rednal|Rednal]]
::*[[user:Se-chan|Se-Chan]]
::*[[user:The naming game|The naming game]]
::*[[user:Darkoneko|Darkoneko]]
'''M.I.A'''
::*[[user:Nandeyanen|Nandeyanen]]
'''K.I.A'''
::*[[user:Da~Mike|Da~Mike]]
::*[[user:BlckKnght|BlckKnght]]
::*[[user:Crowkenobi|Crowkenobi]]
::*[[user:Andiyar|Andiyar]]

== Series Overview ==
* Volume 1 - ''Zero's Familiar'' (June 25, 2004)
* Volume 2 - ''Albion of the Wind'' (September 25, 2004)
* Volume 3 - ''The Founder's Prayer Book'' (December 25, 2004)
* Volume 4 - ''The Water Spirit of Oath'' (March 25, 2005)
* Volume 5 - ''Tristania's Holiday'' (July 25, 2005)
* Volume 6 - ''The Ruby of Atonement'' (November 25, 2005)
* Volume 7 - ''The Silver Pentecost'' (February 25, 2006)
* Volume 8 - ''The Serenade of Nostalgia'' (June 25, 2006)
* Volume 9 - ''The Ball of Twin Moons'' (September 25, 2006)
* Volume 10 - ''The Hero of Ivaldi'' (December 25, 2006)
* Volume 11 - ''A Duet of Recollection'' (May 25, 2007)
* Volume 12 - ''The Fairies' Holiday'' (August 25, 2007)
* Volume 13 - ''The World Door of the Holy Country'' (December 25, 2007)
* Volume 14 - ''Aquileia's Saint'' (May 25, 2008)
* Volume 15 - ''Labyrinth of Oblivion'' (September 25, 2008)
* Volume 16 - ''The Tea Time of Des Ornières'' (February 25, 2009)
* Volume 17 - ''The Soeur of Dawn'' (June 25, 2009)

* Side Story Volume 1 - ''Tabitha's Adventure'' (October 25, 2006)
* Side Story Volume 2 - ''Tabitha's Adventure'' (October 25, 2007)
* Side Story Volume 3 - ''Tabitha's Adventure'' (March 25, 2009)

[[Zero no Tsukaima:Series Overview|ISBN information]]

Zero no Tsukaima

2010-03-12T12:56:06Z

RonnieCorny: /* Side Story Volume 1 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険 */

[[Image:Znt novel cover.jpg|300px|thumb|Vol.One Cover]]

The ''Zero no Tsukaima'' series is also available in the following languages:
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%28version_fran%C3%A7aise%29|Français (French)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_Deutsche Version|Deutsch (German)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%7E_Indonesian_Version|Bahasa Indonesia (Indonesian)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%7EItalian_Version%7E|Italiano (Italian)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_Korean_Version|한국어 (Korean)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_wersja_polska|Polski (Polish)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_~Russian_Version~|Русский (Russian)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%7EVersi%C3%B3n_Espa%C3%B1ola%7E|Español (Spanish)]]
*[http://vnsharing.net/forum/showthread.php?t=73861 Việt Nam (Vietnamese)]

(Note: Translation progress varies for each version.)
----
Visit the [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/index.php Baka-Tsuki Project Forum] to discuss this series and other information from Baka-Tsuki.

== Updates == 

*September 10, 2009:
:* [[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Full Text|Volume 10 full-text version]] is up.

Older updates can be found on the [[Zero_no_Tsukaima_news_archive|ZnT news archive]].

== Translation ==

=== Translators Needed ===

'''Baka-Tsuki is desperately looking for translators for this series.''' If you would like to help translate this series, please post in the forums [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=25&t=714&start=135 here], and we will help you get started. Thank you.

=== [[Zero no Tsukaima Registration|Registration]] ===
Translators are requested to mark all the chapters they are translating on the [[Zero no Tsukaima Registration|Registration Page]] according to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Guideline#Translation_Management|Translation Management]] section of ''Zero no Tsukaima'' [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Guideline|Project Specific Guidelines]].
=== Format Standards ===
Every chapter (after editing) must conform to the agreed points highlighted in [[Format_guideline|Format/Style Guideline]].

Some of these chapters are translations of the '''Chinese edition''' of the novels, which are known to have some minor mistakes compared to the original Japanese text. If you have access to the originals and you spot an error, '''please feel free to make the corrections yourself''' - this is a Wiki which means it's meant for anyone to fix things (and if you screw up, we can revert back your changes if all deem necessary). We can see the corrections you make, so just go ahead instead of hiding or waiting for permission.

[http://www.baka-tsuki.net/project/index.php?title=Zero_no_Tsukaima:guidelines Naming Conventions For ZnT]

=== Joint Collaboration ===
This Project was a [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=246 joint collaboration] with the following groups:
* [http://kh.beyondeternal.com/ Kawaii Heavens] (who also worked on the manga version of this series)
::*Volume 1 (all chapters)


*[http://www.k-neko.net/ Kuroneko]
::*Volume 1, Chapter 1
::*Volume 1, Chapter 2

== ''Zero no Tsukaima'' series by Noboru Yamaguchi ==
=== Volume 1 - Zero's Familiar / ゼロの使い魔 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume1_Insert_&_Back Cover|Insert & Back Cover]]
'''Kingdom of Magic'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - I'm a Familiar]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Louise the Zero]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Legend]]
'''Gandálfr'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - A Familiar's Day]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Kirche the Ardent]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Tristain's Arms Dealer]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Staff of Destruction]]

=== Volume 2 - Albion of the Wind / 風のアルビオン [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - A Secret Boat]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Her Majesty's Melancholy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - A Childhood Friend's Request]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Port City - La Rochelle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - A Rest Day Before Leaving]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The White Country]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - The Prince of a Dying Country]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - The Eve before the Final Battle in Newcastle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - The Final Battle]]

=== Volume 3 - The Founder's Prayer Book / 始祖の祈祷書 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter1_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 1 - Lineage of Zero]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Louise's Lovesickness]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - The Founder's Prayer Book]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Love Triangle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - The Arsenal and the Royal Family]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Treasure Hunting]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Dragon's Raiment]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - Colbert's Laboratory]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter9|Chapter 9 - Declaration of War]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter10|Chapter 10 - The Void]]

=== Volume 4 - The Water Spirit of Oath / 誓約の水精霊 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Prologue|Prologue]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The Saint]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Saito Goes Shopping in the Triumphant Town]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - The Sailor Outfit and Louise's Jealousy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter4_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 4 - Tabitha's Secret]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter5_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 5 - The Strength of a Love Potion]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - The Water Spirit]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - The Ring of Andvari]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - Reunion with Falsehood]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - Confrontation of Sadness]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Epilogue|Epilogue]]

=== Volume 5 - Tristania's Holiday / トリスタニアの休日 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The "Charming Fairies" Inn]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - The Encounter with the Flame and the Friendship with the Wind]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - Tristania's Holiday]]

=== Volume 6 - The Ruby of Atonement / 贖罪の炎赤石 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - Homecoming]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Cattleya]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Duke de La Vallière]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Commanding Officer Guiche and Officer Cadet Malicorne]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Flame of Twenty Years Ago]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - Sortie]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - The Illusion at Dartanes]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - The Atonement of Flame]]

=== Volume 7 - The Silver Pentecost / 銀の降臨祭 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The Temperature Difference between the Two]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Fairy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - The Priest of Romalia]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - The Secretary and the Emperor]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - The Ancient City of Saxe-Gotha]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - Truce]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - The Reason to Fight]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - King of Gallia]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - Rout]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter10|Chapter 10 - The Place of Courage]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Epilogue|Epilogue]]

=== Volume 8 - The Serenade of Nostalgia / 望郷の小夜曲 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter1_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 1 - Each End of the War]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Saito's Morning]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - The Golden Elf]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter4_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 4 - The Visit of the Priest]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter5_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 5 - The Disappearing Gandálfr]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - The Nations Conference]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - Louise's Decision]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - The Users of Void]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - Myoznitnirn]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter10_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 10 - Swordsman]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Epilogue_%7EPreview%7E| Epilogue]]

=== Volume 9 - The Ball of Twin Moons / 双月の舞踏会 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter1 ~Preview~|Chapter 1 - Louise's Fear]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter2 ~Preview~|Chapter 2 - The Elf of the Forest]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter3 ~Preview~|Chapter 3 - The Meeting and Parting of the Users]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter4 ~Preview~|Chapter 4 - The Chevalier Title]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Ondine ・ Knight Corps of the Water Spirit]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The Feelings of the Queen]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Solicitation]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Ball of Sleipnir]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume9 Chapter9|Chapter 9 - The Confrontation with the Mysterious Bird]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume9 Epilogue|Epilogue]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume9 Translator's Notes|Translator's Notes]]

=== Volume 10 - The Hero of Ivaldi / イーヴァルディの勇者 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The ''Ostland'']]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Chapter2|Chapter 2 - The Elf]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Anxiety and Jealousy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - The Queen and the Knights]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Siblings]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The Imprisoned Six]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Settlement of the Past]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Old Mansion of Orléans]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter9|Chapter 9 - Alhambra Castle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter10|Chapter 10 - The Hero of Ivaldi]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Epilogue|Epilogue]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Postscript|Postscript]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Translator's Notes|Translator's Notes]]

=== Volume 11 - A Duet of Recollection / 追憶の二重奏===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume11_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter1|Chapter 1 - Von Zerbst]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter2|Chapter 2 - The Queen and the Duke]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Karin the Heavy Wind]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter4|Chapter 4 - The Vallière Family]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter5|Chapter 5 - New School Term]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Private Lesson]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter7|Chapter 7 - The Pope of Romalia]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter8|Chapter 8 - Jörmungand]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter9|Chapter 9 - Reunion in Westwood]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter10|Chapter 10 - The Heart of the Duet]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume11_Epilogue|Epilogue]]

=== Volume 12 - The Fairies' Holiday / 妖精達の休日===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Prologue|Prologue]]
''' New Student from the White Country (Albion)'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Chapter4|Chapter 4]] (25%)
'''Knight Corps of the Water Spirit, Charge!'''
::*Chapter 1
::*Chapter 2
'''Right to Use Saito for a Day'''
::*Chapter 1
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Section3_Chapter2|Chapter 2]] (1%)

=== Volume 13 - The World Door of the Holy Country / 聖国の世界扉===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Romalia
::*Chapter 2 - Saito's Decision
::*Chapter 3 - Aboard the ''Ostland''
::*Chapter 4 - The Two Knight Corps
::*Chapter 5 - The Persuasion of the Pope
::*Chapter 6 - Long Spear
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - World Door]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Meaning of the Smile]]
::*Epilogue

===Volume 14 - Aquileia's Saint / 水都市の聖女===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume14_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - The Flowerbed Squadron's Rebellion
::*Chapter 2 - The Third Annual Enthronement Ceremony
::*Chapter 3 - An Elven Gandalfr
::*Chapter 4 - The Capital of Water
::*Chapter 5 - Six Thousand Years Ago
::*Chapter 6 - Tiger Highway
::*Chapter 7 - Aquileia's Saint
::*Chapter 8 - The Steel Tiger
::*Chapter 9 - The Memory of the Bond
::*Epilogue

===Volume 15 - Labyrinth of Oblivion / 忘却の夢迷宮 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume15_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Carcassonne
::*Chapter 2 - The Knight Contest of the Sandbank
::*Chapter 3 - A Shaken Mind
::*Chapter 4 - The Jewel of Fire
::*Chapter 5 - Honeymoon
::*Chapter 6 - Tabitha's Long Night
::*Chapter 7 - Henrietta's Diplomatic Plan
::*Chapter 8 - Coronation
::*Chapter 9 - The Exit of the Labyrinth
::*Epilogue

===Volume 16 - The Tea Time of Des Ornières / ド・オルニエールの安穏 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume16_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - The Reward of the Campaign 
::*Chapter 2 - Searching for a Residence 
::*Chapter 3 - Henrietta's Melancholy, Louise's Anxiety, Saito's Promotion 
::*Chapter 4 - Mother and Cousin 
::*Chapter 5 - Saito Chevalier De Hiraga Des Ornières 
::*Chapter 6 - Daily Tea Time 
::*Chapter 7 - Eléonore's Academy 
::*Chapter 8 - The Basement of the Residence 
::*Chapter 9 - Secret Meeting 
::*Chapter 10 - 元素の兄弟
::*Epilogue

===Volume 17 - The Soeur of Dawn / 黎明の修道女 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume17_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Saito's despair 
::*Chapter 2 - Flight 
::*Chapter 3 - Meeting and Comrade 
::*Chapter 4 - Sulpice 
::*Chapter 5 - First meeting with Jack 
::*Chapter 6 - Damien and Lord Gondrin 
::*Chapter 7 - Soeur Louise 
::*Chapter 8 - Josette's Resolution 
::*Chapter 9 - Two Canes, One Crown 
::*Chapter 10 - Garden Party to Celebrate the Enthronement 
::*Chapter 11 - Bonds 
::*Epilogue

===Volume 18 - Spirit Stone of Destruction / 滅亡の精霊石 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume18_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Lovers 
::*Chapter 2 - Fouquet and Wardes 
::*Chapter 3 - Josette's Garden Party 
::*Chapter 4 - Strategy 
::*Chapter 5 - Confession of the Pope 
::*Chapter 6 - Spirit Stone of Destruction 
::*Chapter 7 - Our Home 
::*Chapter 8 - Elf of the Sahara 
::*Chapter 9 - Chance meeting 
::*Epilogue

=== Side Story Volume 1 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume1_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume1_Story1|Story 1 - Tabitha and the Pterosaur (36%)]]
::*Story 2 - Tabitha and the Vampire
::*Story 3 - Tabitha and the Assassin
::*Story 4 - Tabitha and the Magic Doll

=== Side Story Volume 2 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険2===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume2_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume2_Story5|Story 5 - Tabitha and the Gambler]]
::*Story 6 - Tabitha and the Minotaur
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume2_ExtraChapter|Extra Chapter - A Day in the Life of Sylphid]]
::*Story 7 - Tabitha and the Bird of Paradise
::*Story 8 - Tabitha and the Naval Port

=== Side Story Volume 3 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険3===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume3_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Story 9 - Tabitha and Sylphid
::*Story 10 - Tabitha and the old Warrior
::*Story 11 - Tabitha and first Love
::*Story 12 - Tabitha's Birth

== Project Staff ==
*Project Administrator: [[user:Onizuka-gto|Onizuka-gto]]
*Project Supervisor: [[user:Vaelis|Vaelis]]

=== Translators ===
'''ACTIVE'''
::*[[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]]
::*[[user:Kazesenken|Kazesenken]]
::*[[user:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]]

'''INACTIVE'''
::*[[user:ArchmageXin|ArchmageXin]]
::*[[user:Momogan|Momogan]]
::*[[user:SeiryuuChan|SeiryuuChan]]
::*[[user:Serenade_beta|Serenade beta]]
::*[[user:ShApEsHiFt3r|ShApEsHiFt3r ]]
::*[[user:Trewth|Trewth ]]
::*[[user:Xorius|Xorius]]

'''A.W.O.L'''
::*[[user:christof|christof]]
::*[[user:Claies|Claies]]
::*[[user:Vertiful|Vertiful]]

'''M.I.A'''
::*[[user:Cala-kun|Cala-kun]]
'''K.I.A'''
::*[[user:naturesbless|naturesbless]]
::*[[user:Nidema|Nidema]]
::*[[user:SaiyaJedi|SaiyaJedi]] <- aka "SaitoFromEarth"
::*[[user:Sushi-Y|Sushi-Y]]

=== Editors ===
This is the Project Editorial Team.
They will regularly patrol the projects to prevent vandalism & make sure the guidelines are implemented. If you have any inquiries about certain edits please contact any one of the members.

'''ACTIVE'''
::*[[user:Onizuka-gto|Onizuka-gto]]
::*[[user:DeotoxSlayer|DeotoxSlayer]]
::*[[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]]
::*[[user:Akirasav|Akira]]
::*[[user:BakaSama|BakaSama]]
'''A.W.O.L'''
::*[[user:Bicube|Bicube]]
::*[[user:BaKaFiSh|BaKaFiSh]]
::*[[user:Rednal|Rednal]]
::*[[user:Se-chan|Se-Chan]]
::*[[user:The naming game|The naming game]]
::*[[user:Darkoneko|Darkoneko]]
'''M.I.A'''
::*[[user:Nandeyanen|Nandeyanen]]
'''K.I.A'''
::*[[user:Da~Mike|Da~Mike]]
::*[[user:BlckKnght|BlckKnght]]
::*[[user:Crowkenobi|Crowkenobi]]
::*[[user:Andiyar|Andiyar]]

== Series Overview ==
* Volume 1 - ''Zero's Familiar'' (June 25, 2004)
* Volume 2 - ''Albion of the Wind'' (September 25, 2004)
* Volume 3 - ''The Founder's Prayer Book'' (December 25, 2004)
* Volume 4 - ''The Water Spirit of Oath'' (March 25, 2005)
* Volume 5 - ''Tristania's Holiday'' (July 25, 2005)
* Volume 6 - ''The Ruby of Atonement'' (November 25, 2005)
* Volume 7 - ''The Silver Pentecost'' (February 25, 2006)
* Volume 8 - ''The Serenade of Nostalgia'' (June 25, 2006)
* Volume 9 - ''The Ball of Twin Moons'' (September 25, 2006)
* Volume 10 - ''The Hero of Ivaldi'' (December 25, 2006)
* Volume 11 - ''A Duet of Recollection'' (May 25, 2007)
* Volume 12 - ''The Fairies' Holiday'' (August 25, 2007)
* Volume 13 - ''The World Door of the Holy Country'' (December 25, 2007)
* Volume 14 - ''Aquileia's Saint'' (May 25, 2008)
* Volume 15 - ''Labyrinth of Oblivion'' (September 25, 2008)
* Volume 16 - ''The Tea Time of Des Ornières'' (February 25, 2009)
* Volume 17 - ''The Soeur of Dawn'' (June 25, 2009)

* Side Story Volume 1 - ''Tabitha's Adventure'' (October 25, 2006)
* Side Story Volume 2 - ''Tabitha's Adventure'' (October 25, 2007)
* Side Story Volume 3 - ''Tabitha's Adventure'' (March 25, 2009)

[[Zero no Tsukaima:Series Overview|ISBN information]]

Zero no Tsukaima:Side Story Volume1 Story1

2010-03-12T12:52:02Z

RonnieCorny:

1st Story - Tabitha and the Pterosaur

The blue-scaled Sylphid picks up her master, and flew up into the sky. The two moons shine brightly in the clear sky behind her blue scales. The white moon is so bright as to be almost transparent, and the red moon leaves a slightly reddish tinge. From such a high altitude, it was a fantastic scene to be viewed.

growl... growl... (stomach rumbling sounds)

Sylphid snorted her nose. She was hungry.

But it would be rude to disturb the master when she is reading a book. What to do, this is so troublesome, Sylphid looked furtively at the girl who is her master.

Sitting astride the part of the neck which dips a little from the top of Sylphid's head, with a dorsal fin on her back, her short, blue hair fluttering in the wind, the little girl calmly opens the book.

Although turning 15 years old this year, her body's build was that of a child 2 or 3 years younger. Perhaps when she was 12 years old, her body stopped growing.

Her cold blue eyes behind the spectacles do not reveal any emotions. She was so absorbed in the book, only turning a page on the book occasionally, that one cannot discern any expression from her.

However, her facial profile was quite lovely like a peaceful and tranquil spring although it was cold. Her cold demeanor resembled that of the clear and transparent winter wind, which shrouds her with a matured tinge of melancholy on her innocent young face.

She is Sylphid's important master, Tabitha.

growl~, and Sylphid's stomach growled.

Oh, I cannot endure it anymore! Even if she gets angry, I don't care! Sylphi doesn't care anymore! With a soft murmur, Sylphid began to entreat her master.

"I am hungry. I am hungry. I am hungry"

Tabitha was distracted from the face of the page, and stared at the face of the mythical beast she was straddling on. Noticing that she had her master's attention, Sylphid bleated a happy sound through her nose.

fuga fuga.(sound of heart beating?) She and older-sister's face moved close. Looking intently at Sylphid's face

Sylphid called out to her master Tabitha, "Older sister-sama".

Why was she called such even though Sylphid was an only child. When she was summoned during the "Summoning Ceremony" of the Trystain Magical Academy by this girl, she felt quite blessed and decided to call her "older sister." She had the vibe of that of an older sister.

Sylphid had such a simple character that just because Tabitha had paid attention to her, she was so happy that forgot her hunger. She started chattering to enjoy a conversation with Tabitha.

"Elder sister-sama, it's so lovely today. I'm so glad!"

Sylphid looks like a wind dragon of six mails length......

She has beautiful translucent scales that seem to glitter and reflect light.

She seem even larger when she spreads her wings. Those huge wings re-assuredly flap powerfully in the sky. In any case, she looks just like a wind dragon in every respect.

However, normally, dragons do not talk.

A dragon's intelligence, although it is a superior mythical beast in its own class, does not give them the ability of human speech.

"It's also such a nice weather today! What do you think, elder sister-sama?"

However, within Sylphid's trembling throat, a lovely sound of human speech was produced and fluently came out of her mouth.

Only a sage carrying an abundance of knowledge may probably realize the true nature of Sylphid

and recall the name of these species from the fading shadows of ancient legends.

Tabitha found one such book that was written by one such scholar. The title of the book is written as such:-

"Mythical Intelligent Creatures of Ancient Times - The Rhyme Dragons"

"elder sister-sama, what are you reading?"

In a sweet-sounding voice that does not suit her face, Sylphid asked.

"It's a book written about your species"

In a voice almost without any inflection, Tabitha answered.

"I'm glad. As I thought, Elder sister is really very very interested in me"

"not really. it was just by chance"

"I'm delighted even though it's only coincidental. hey elder sister-sama, do you remember? the day when you summoned me"

"I remember"

Tabitha responds seemingly with some measure of coldness.

"I also remember fondly! That day elder sister gave me my name! a superb name! Sylphid! a human name!"

"coo coo", sounds of happiness emit from Sylphid.

"It is not a human name"

"Is that so! a wind fairy's name! an ancient fairy! kyui kyui!"

Sylphid's neck shook with joy. Tabitha's body was also violently shaken, but Tabitha was not concerned at all. Her sense of balance was amazing.

""Irukukuu" is a name for dragons. It means a gentle breeze! "Sylphid" is a name for humans. I, I have a second name! for when I'm together with elder sister-sama! kiyui kiyui!"

Tabitha returned her attention to the book. Sylphid continues to chatter on.

"Yes, yes! At that time when elder sister-sama summoned me, there was that girl with the pink hair! A human boy was summoned! That was quite a surprise! It was disgusting! Yet it was so funny!"

However, Tabitha did not carry on the conversation anymore. So, Sylphid felt neglected. And so she remembered that she was hungry.

"I'm hungry. how about a meal? how about a meal?"

Sylphid being able to speak human speech like that is not just a wind dragon.

An ancient wind dragon, one of the lost legendary rhyme dragons......, It is a legendary creature to live in the deserted mountains and the depths of the forests where human eyes have didn't touch.

The rhyme dragons are extremely intelligent and can understand human speech, but they require a lot of time to grow to adulthood. If one were to guess the age from the annual growth ring of her scales, this rhyme dragon should roughly be about 200 years old, but she would be equivalent to a human of not more than 10 years of age.

Yet, one cannot approach it carelessly despite it being a child

In the spring (youth) of a rhyme dragon, this species can boast of intelligence superior to that of a human being, and also better in language sense, and can manipulate "primal magic", and it is also a strong mythical beast which flies at high speed in the sky and can hurl powerful breaths.

This Sylphid, the rhyme dragon, was acquired with "Summon Servant" from somewhere in this world and contracted to Tabitha as her familiar. A thing that exemplifies the magical ability of this master is indicated with this accomplishment alone.

To Sylphid, such a powerful mage like Tabitha impressed her strongly.

"I'm hungry. I'm hung-greeee"

"you're noisy"

"if i don't say it, elder sister-sama will easily forget about my meal. Therefore I have to say it a lot. I'm hungry. I'm hungry"

Sylphid continues crying "gya gya" with her protesting voice.

"we'll have the meal when we arrive"

"really? for real?"

"promise"

"hooray. hooray. I'll eat a lot. I want to eat meat. I want......"

Sylphid began to sing. Because of the large amount of breath, the sound she was making was deafeningly loud. And so Tabitha hit her head with her staff.

"ouch. ouch. it hurts"

"that's why you should keep quiet"

"I'm quiet already. By the way elder-sister-sama, you riding on my back instead of taking a carriage, are we going to the castle instead the mansion?"

Tabitha nodded.

Sylphid became sad. She didn't like the castle.

"Let's not go to the castle. Hey, why can't I speak in front of other people?"

"troublesome"

The tiny Tabitha replied. Rhyme dragons are said to be extinct. If the real nature of Sylphid is revealed, Trystain's Academia or Galia's Royal Family may give an order to "conduct a research or experiment" on her. Therefore Tabitha does not allow Sylphid to speak in front of another person.

"not the castle. I'm not allowed to speak so let's not go to the castle. It's boring unless I can speak!"

Detachedly, Tabitha looked out into the distance and said.

"bear with it"

Sylphid became silent as she felt like the air was frozen by this aspect of Tabitha.

stealing a glance at the face of her tiny master.

Impassive as usual.

Even when she's moody, even when she's normal, even when she's eating, even when she's angry, Tabitha was impassive.

When she is happy (it's not certain whether the ever was such a occasion), she would probably be impassive as well.

Sylphid has never seen a thing called a smile on Tabitha.

As if it was frozen by the "windy icicle", similar to the two characters of her title, Tabitha;s expression never changes.

I want to put a radiant smile on her face, Sylphid often thinks.

But I don't know what I can do. And so she became a little bit sad, and going "kiyai kiyai" Sylphid sighed.

The city of Lutèce of Galia is the largest city in Halkugenia boasting a population of 300,000 located about 1,000 leagues inland from the border of the neighboring country Trystain.

The huge and grand palace of Versailles where the royal family of Galia stays is situated near the eastern edge. In the clearing that was once a forest, a beautiful and great manor was built by the first king, Robespierre III. King Joseph I, the current master, wields the scepter of government in the heart of the Grand Trois, a building made of rose-colored marble.

Some distance from the Grand Trois, inside the pink colored small palace called Petit Trois, a young lady gave a big yawn.

"fuwaaaaaaaa" (yawn)

She is probably approaching 17 years of age. The unusual color of her hair. a bluish tinge, was the same as the color of the pupils of her slender eyes. The appearance of such an unusual color would convey to any person that this person is related to the Galia royal family. The blue hair grown to shoulder length was combed carefully and was soft and rustled smoothly like silk thread. A large extravagant crown lifts up a forelock, while her smooth facial frame peeks out. The lips which have never known hardship gave off an alluring shine.

The girl licked her crimson red colored lips with her tongue. This course and vulgar gesture spoiled the dignified features of this noble in an instant.

She is the daughter of King Joseph, the princess of the kingdom of Galia.

the seemingly listless Isabella, who seemed to be in a luxurious sprawl, pulled the cord which hung down next to a bell. Three female attendants immediately jumped into the living room.

"You rang, your highness?"

"I'm bored"

"Would it help to have a game with us?"

"Pinochle? Whist? Card games are so tedious"

"then, a dice game......"

"Isn't that a game for the commoners. Princesses do not play such games"

"What about going out hunting? In Pierrefont forest, you can land a deer's head with hunting dogs, according to Mr. Simon's report"

"I do not want to go out"

The female attendants looked at each other anxiously. Isabella kept talking with a look of increasing irritation.

"Really, father is also totally terrible! I even want to be useful to the royal family! I am not simply some pretty doll of a daughter, but am really quite capable! Therefore, even though i've said i want to be in government service...... being the commander of the "Knights of the North Parterre"? Such a simple job, it's so mundane! Doesn't father love this daughter!?"

On hearing that name, the female attendants shuddered.

There are innumerable flower beds in the Versailles palace where the flowers of the season to be given the title "Parterre" bloom in abundance. The distinguished knights of Galia are named after the names of these flower beds. Knights of the Southern Rose Parterre, Knights of the Eastern Lily Parterre...... However, because there isn't any flower bed in the north side, there should never have been any squadron of knights where the name contains "North" in their title.

But, there is a knight squadron with a name of only "North" at the back stage of the royal palace.

That is the Knights of the North Parterre.

It was the organization which single-handedly undertakes the dirty work of the Galia royal family. They are brought in for various domestic or foreign troubles that occur. Isabella is the commander of that. This squadron has various "Chevaliers" as its knights for the time being. These shadowy knights carry out shady missions unrelated to honor without knowing each other...... such is the Chevalier of the North Parterre.

Isabella was waiting for one such Knight of the North Parterre.

"Hasn't that gargoyle arrived yet?"

The older attendant shook her head.

"Lady Charlotte has not yet arrived"

"Just call her "the doll" or "the gargoyle" is enough"

y- yes......, the attendant stuttered. Charlotte visiting Isabella now infuriates the blood of the Galian royal family......, a long time ago she was the royal cousin of Isabella. Although she has been stripped of her birthright and the her royal family name, a mere servant such as myself cannot take such a rude attitude. Besides, comparing Charlotte to Isabella......

Noticing the quiet discord in the servants, Isabella gave her orders in a trifling tone.

"All of you, go welcome that gargoyle daughter"

"y-yes"

With a relieved expression, the attendants nod.

Isabella scolded the attendants who were going to stand in line at the entrance of the room.

"It is not that kind of "Welcome""

"huh?"

Isabella had on a wicked smile.

Sylphid carrying Tabitha landed on the front garden of Petit Trois. The military escort who waited at the entrance came as Tabitha alighted and bowed down.

"Welcome back, Lady Charlotte"

Because this escort said such with respect and bowed down, he was scolded by another officer.

"hey"

With a bitter expression, the military escort stepped back. The other officer who was rude declared.

"The crown princess awaits"

Tabitha left the reins with the military escort.

"Feed this child"

Saying so and pointing to Sylphid. Sylphid trumpeted happily through her nose. She did not speak any human words because Tabitha had strictly instructed her not to do so in front of any other human except Tabitha.

Afterwards, Tabitha went into the building.

The gargoyle which stood in front of the princess's room removed the pole which prevented passage. Unlike in the other countries, the use of magical statues like gargoyles for this purpose is popular. A command has to be issued for every simple operation, even repeated ones, with a "golem" compared to "gargoyle" that can be made to operate independently. This sort of gargoyle is used widely in Galia where it is also the only country to develop this type of magic.

lifting up the heavy cloth curtain that hung from the ceiling, she entered the room......

flap! flap! flap!

Then, something flew at Tabitha. Without even taking any evasive action, Tabitha took it calmly with her body.

Eggs came flying, and a mud filled sausages too.

bashiya! bashiya! the contents scatter all over the place on impact. Egg whites spewed all over and some of it dangled on Tabitha's face. But Tabitha's expression did not change at all. She didn't even wipe it off.

On seeing such a sight, the master of the room, Isabella, burst out laughing.

"Oh ho! ho ho! oh ho ho ho!"

The attendants who hurled the eggs and sausages at Tabitha came out from behind the shade of the curtain with uncertain looks. Tabitha remains expressionless and stares straight ahead. Isabella was in her field of vision, the only focus of her view as if there was nothing else around.

"Hey, all of you must also laugh! really, that is something else! That appearance!"

Being ordered so by Isabella, the attendants laughed unwillingly. Isabella continued laughing at Tabitha for some time.

But, Tabitha's expression did not change at all.

This manner only irritated Isabella.

"Why don't you say something?"

Tabitha did not respond at all. The artificial laughter of the attendants have stopped as well.

"Don't you feel you should at least get angry, feel some annoyance, or want to cry or scream out?"

"............"

In Tabitha's view, this was just what Isabella wanted.

"grrr......"

Feeling slightly overwhelmed, Isabella bit on her lip. And forced herself to put a smile on the edge of her face.

"......really, this child is totally like a gargoyle. Only considering what it's to do, not understanding anything else. Just because you can use a little magic, do you think you are so much better?"

Isabella mutters scornfully as that was all she could do.

However Tabitha's expression did not change. With eyes that looked like they were staring at an ornament, it just continued to stare at Isabella.

Because Tabitha was not agitated but instead kept calmly looking at her, Isabella was further irritated.

"You dare to address the princess in such filthy attire? Take off those filthy rags!"

Having thrown the eggs themselves, and then hearing those words, the attendants were quite worried and started to tremble while watching the scene unfold.

"Take it off. That's an order!"

By those words, Tabitha started unbuttoning her shirt. She was at ease and took off her shirt and skirt without any reservation as one would do so when changing clothes at night in their room.

She was left with only her chemise.

There wasn't any curve or shape on the girl's body.

This build is one that can hardly be that of a 15 year old.

Isabella sniggered.

"Take that off too"

Tabitha threw off the chemise without changing her composure. The attendants unintentionally covered their eyes because they felt that the situation was too pitiful. The skin of this beautiful girl was pure white and appeared like snow.

"......hmmph, you, are you eating properly?"

Tabitha remained expressionless.

Is the heavens giving a cruel treatment to the cousin during blood heredity? (kinda hard to properly translate the statement, but the gist is that Isabella was making fun of Tabitha saying that even though they were cousins, her genetic makeup was poor)

No, Isabella was not able to forgive the talent of Tabitha simply because she was the cousin who had inherited it by blood. Such magical ability that allowed her to get the title of "Chevalier" while so young.

Why didn't she receive such magical talent herself......

Magical ability is something that is respected. In this large palace, which nobles, which servants, would actually respect her as the princess? She was annoyed and almost died when she imagined it.

Isabella stood up and approached Tabitha. Picking up the eyeglasses, she moved her face closer to her cousin's face.

Chewing painfully at the edges of her lips, Isabella muttered.

"Are you not of the imperial family also? Do you understand? Just because you have have a little magic ability, what gives you the right to put on airs?"

Isabella scowled at Tabitha.

The air in the room became oppressive, and several minutes just passed by.

Beads of sweat formed on the forehead of Isabella.

Hmmph, Isabella snorted. Unable to bear the pressure of Tabitha's silence. Picking up a letter that was lying on top of the bed, she threw it at Tabitha.

"Your seventh mission as a Chevalier of North Parterre. Clean it up quickly"

Tabitha quietly put her clothes back on, then taking the letter and left the princess's room.

From the Galian capital of Lutèce to the Al Delaware district, it would normally take 2 days on horseback; 5 days on foot; but only 2 hours on Tabitha's Sylphid. It is here where the forest which stretches along the border with Germania is located, it used to be called the "Black Forest" in both countries.

The Eginheim village was in a corner of this forest. It is a small village with a population of approximately 200 that has been caught in between every Galian and Germanian war. On this day, the villagers who earned a living by cutting down trees and transporting them and selling them in the town, gathered in the central open space of the village and raised their voices in anger.

"I can't take this anymore!"

cried the stocky man carrying an ax on his shoulder.

"that's right, that's right!" the villagers joined in chorus with that man. The villagers tightly grasped their weapons. As most of the villagers were woodcutters, most of the weapons that they wielded were axes. They were very agitated. It seems like somehow they wanted to lash out at something.

"Those goddamed winged creatures! We were just cutting down some trees! Do they understand how that affects our fortune? Hah?"

"E~even I can understand!"

An old woman shouted out while shivering. She was grasping a sickle.

"I'm losing my only means of livelihood! And it is all thanks to those good-for-nothing winged creatures, I may not even survive through this winter! Jeez, really, that god-damned feudal lord is all talk! Dispatching some knights, that's all he can say is he will send them, already it's been how many months?!"

"It's just as granny Amitabha said! As it is, if we go on letting those winged creatures have their own way, we'll all starve to death! Today, we'll put an end to that today! Let's go! Follow me!"

Just as the villagers began walking towards the forest with dreadful expressions......, a skinny boy stood in front of the villagers, blocking them.

"w-, wait a minute! hold on everyone!"

"Josiah"

The stalwart man who led the villagers scratched his head, troubled.

"Elder brother Sam, wait a minute. Stop it!"

"Move aside"

"Let's talk it over! Let's talk it over! We should negotiate things further!"

"Negotiation? negotiate with whom?"

"that, those winged creatures......"

Josiah shrank at the angry look of his older brother.

"What more can be negotiated, those fellows strike at us with magic whenever we approach them! That sort of bullshit is the negotiation you would get!"

that's right, that's right, a villager shouts out.

"That is, we're going to first use our bows and arrows to get rid of them......"

"You know what, Josiah. Those things that are flying in the sky, those creatures are just poultry. Friends of the birds. What's wrong with shooting (an arrow) at birds?"

"Really! Do those winged creatures even speak human language? It's not a bird! It is just another fellow creature living in the same forest!"

Sam's complexion changed.

"Friends? Bullshit. If it's friends you're talking about, it's everyone who are here! Those living from here within this fence are the ones you call friends!"

Sam points at the fence between the village and the forest.

"B-, but......"

"Are Riya's friends living in the forest? That's what that Amachoroi said! He is the son of the village head! Who will protect the livelihood of everyone in Thame village!"

Don! and Sam pushed away the lanky younger brother.

Pushed by an older brother with twice the weight, Josiah fell down to the ground. Sam and the villagers passed by the side. Pounding his fist on the ground, Josiah seemed to be very annoyed as he stood up and ran after the villagers.

(~36%~)

Zero no Tsukaima

2010-03-07T14:34:37Z

RonnieCorny: /* Side Story Volume 1 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険 */

[[Image:Znt novel cover.jpg|300px|thumb|Vol.One Cover]]

The ''Zero no Tsukaima'' series is also available in the following languages:
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%28version_fran%C3%A7aise%29|Français (French)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_Deutsche Version|Deutsch (German)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%7E_Indonesian_Version|Bahasa Indonesia (Indonesian)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%7EItalian_Version%7E|Italiano (Italian)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_Korean_Version|한국어 (Korean)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_wersja_polska|Polski (Polish)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_~Russian_Version~|Русский (Russian)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%7EVersi%C3%B3n_Espa%C3%B1ola%7E|Español (Spanish)]]
*[http://vnsharing.net/forum/showthread.php?t=73861 Việt Nam (Vietnamese)]

(Note: Translation progress varies for each version.)
----
Visit the [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/index.php Baka-Tsuki Project Forum] to discuss this series and other information from Baka-Tsuki.

== Updates == 

*September 10, 2009:
:* [[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Full Text|Volume 10 full-text version]] is up.

Older updates can be found on the [[Zero_no_Tsukaima_news_archive|ZnT news archive]].

== Translation ==

=== Translators Needed ===

'''Baka-Tsuki is desperately looking for translators for this series.''' If you would like to help translate this series, please post in the forums [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=25&t=714&start=135 here], and we will help you get started. Thank you.

=== [[Zero no Tsukaima Registration|Registration]] ===
Translators are requested to mark all the chapters they are translating on the [[Zero no Tsukaima Registration|Registration Page]] according to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Guideline#Translation_Management|Translation Management]] section of ''Zero no Tsukaima'' [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Guideline|Project Specific Guidelines]].
=== Format Standards ===
Every chapter (after editing) must conform to the agreed points highlighted in [[Format_guideline|Format/Style Guideline]].

Some of these chapters are translations of the '''Chinese edition''' of the novels, which are known to have some minor mistakes compared to the original Japanese text. If you have access to the originals and you spot an error, '''please feel free to make the corrections yourself''' - this is a Wiki which means it's meant for anyone to fix things (and if you screw up, we can revert back your changes if all deem necessary). We can see the corrections you make, so just go ahead instead of hiding or waiting for permission.

[http://www.baka-tsuki.net/project/index.php?title=Zero_no_Tsukaima:guidelines Naming Conventions For ZnT]

=== Joint Collaboration ===
This Project was a [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=246 joint collaboration] with the following groups:
* [http://kh.beyondeternal.com/ Kawaii Heavens] (who also worked on the manga version of this series)
::*Volume 1 (all chapters)


*[http://www.k-neko.net/ Kuroneko]
::*Volume 1, Chapter 1
::*Volume 1, Chapter 2

== ''Zero no Tsukaima'' series by Noboru Yamaguchi ==
=== Volume 1 - Zero's Familiar / ゼロの使い魔 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume1_Insert_&_Back Cover|Insert & Back Cover]]
'''Kingdom of Magic'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - I'm a Familiar]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Louise the Zero]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Legend]]
'''Gandálfr'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - A Familiar's Day]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Kirche the Ardent]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Tristain's Arms Dealer]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Staff of Destruction]]

=== Volume 2 - Albion of the Wind / 風のアルビオン [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - A Secret Boat]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Her Majesty's Melancholy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - A Childhood Friend's Request]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Port City - La Rochelle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - A Rest Day Before Leaving]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The White Country]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - The Prince of a Dying Country]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - The Eve before the Final Battle in Newcastle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - The Final Battle]]

=== Volume 3 - The Founder's Prayer Book / 始祖の祈祷書 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter1_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 1 - Lineage of Zero]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Louise's Lovesickness]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - The Founder's Prayer Book]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Love Triangle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - The Arsenal and the Royal Family]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Treasure Hunting]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Dragon's Raiment]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - Colbert's Laboratory]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter9|Chapter 9 - Declaration of War]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter10|Chapter 10 - The Void]]

=== Volume 4 - The Water Spirit of Oath / 誓約の水精霊 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Prologue|Prologue]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The Saint]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Saito Goes Shopping in the Triumphant Town]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - The Sailor Outfit and Louise's Jealousy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter4_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 4 - Tabitha's Secret]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter5_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 5 - The Strength of a Love Potion]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - The Water Spirit]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - The Ring of Andvari]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - Reunion with Falsehood]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - Confrontation of Sadness]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Epilogue|Epilogue]]

=== Volume 5 - Tristania's Holiday / トリスタニアの休日 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The "Charming Fairies" Inn]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - The Encounter with the Flame and the Friendship with the Wind]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - Tristania's Holiday]]

=== Volume 6 - The Ruby of Atonement / 贖罪の炎赤石 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - Homecoming]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Cattleya]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Duke de La Vallière]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Commanding Officer Guiche and Officer Cadet Malicorne]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Flame of Twenty Years Ago]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - Sortie]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - The Illusion at Dartanes]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - The Atonement of Flame]]

=== Volume 7 - The Silver Pentecost / 銀の降臨祭 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The Temperature Difference between the Two]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Fairy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - The Priest of Romalia]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - The Secretary and the Emperor]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - The Ancient City of Saxe-Gotha]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - Truce]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - The Reason to Fight]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - King of Gallia]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - Rout]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter10|Chapter 10 - The Place of Courage]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Epilogue|Epilogue]]

=== Volume 8 - The Serenade of Nostalgia / 望郷の小夜曲 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter1_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 1 - Each End of the War]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Saito's Morning]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - The Golden Elf]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter4_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 4 - The Visit of the Priest]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter5_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 5 - The Disappearing Gandálfr]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - The Nations Conference]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - Louise's Decision]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - The Users of Void]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - Myoznitnirn]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter10_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 10 - Swordsman]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Epilogue_%7EPreview%7E| Epilogue]]

=== Volume 9 - The Ball of Twin Moons / 双月の舞踏会 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter1 ~Preview~|Chapter 1 - Louise's Fear]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter2 ~Preview~|Chapter 2 - The Elf of the Forest]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter3 ~Preview~|Chapter 3 - The Meeting and Parting of the Users]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter4 ~Preview~|Chapter 4 - The Chevalier Title]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Ondine ・ Knight Corps of the Water Spirit]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The Feelings of the Queen]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Solicitation]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Ball of Sleipnir]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume9 Chapter9|Chapter 9 - The Confrontation with the Mysterious Bird]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume9 Epilogue|Epilogue]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume9 Translator's Notes|Translator's Notes]]

=== Volume 10 - The Hero of Ivaldi / イーヴァルディの勇者 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The ''Ostland'']]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Chapter2|Chapter 2 - The Elf]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Anxiety and Jealousy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - The Queen and the Knights]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Siblings]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The Imprisoned Six]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Settlement of the Past]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Old Mansion of Orléans]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter9|Chapter 9 - Alhambra Castle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter10|Chapter 10 - The Hero of Ivaldi]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Epilogue|Epilogue]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Postscript|Postscript]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Translator's Notes|Translator's Notes]]

=== Volume 11 - A Duet of Recollection / 追憶の二重奏===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume11_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter1|Chapter 1 - Von Zerbst]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter2|Chapter 2 - The Queen and the Duke]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Karin the Heavy Wind]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter4|Chapter 4 - The Vallière Family]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter5|Chapter 5 - New School Term]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Private Lesson]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter7|Chapter 7 - The Pope of Romalia]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter8|Chapter 8 - Jörmungand]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter9|Chapter 9 - Reunion in Westwood]] (62%)
::*Chapter 10 - The Heart of the Duet
::*Epilogue

=== Volume 12 - The Fairies' Holiday / 妖精達の休日===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Prologue|Prologue]]
''' New Student from the White Country (Albion)'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Chapter4|Chapter 4]] (25%)
'''Knight Corps of the Water Spirit, Charge!'''
::*Chapter 1
::*Chapter 2
'''Right to Use Saito for a Day'''
::*Chapter 1
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Section3_Chapter2|Chapter 2]] (1%)

=== Volume 13 - The World Door of the Holy Country / 聖国の世界扉===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Romalia
::*Chapter 2 - Saito's Decision
::*Chapter 3 - Aboard the ''Ostland''
::*Chapter 4 - The Two Knight Corps
::*Chapter 5 - The Persuasion of the Pope
::*Chapter 6 - Long Spear
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - World Door]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Meaning of the Smile]]
::*Epilogue

===Volume 14 - Aquileia's Saint / 水都市の聖女===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume14_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - The Flowerbed Squadron's Rebellion
::*Chapter 2 - The Third Annual Enthronement Ceremony
::*Chapter 3 - An Elven Gandalfr
::*Chapter 4 - The Capital of Water
::*Chapter 5 - Six Thousand Years Ago
::*Chapter 6 - Tiger Highway
::*Chapter 7 - Aquileia's Saint
::*Chapter 8 - The Steel Tiger
::*Chapter 9 - The Memory of the Bond
::*Epilogue

===Volume 15 - Labyrinth of Oblivion / 忘却の夢迷宮 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume15_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Carcassonne
::*Chapter 2 - The Knight Contest of the Sandbank
::*Chapter 3 - A Shaken Mind
::*Chapter 4 - The Jewel of Fire
::*Chapter 5 - Honeymoon
::*Chapter 6 - Tabitha's Long Night
::*Chapter 7 - Henrietta's Diplomatic Plan
::*Chapter 8 - Coronation
::*Chapter 9 - The Exit of the Labyrinth
::*Epilogue

===Volume 16 - The Tea Time of Des Ornières / ド・オルニエールの安穏 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume16_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - The Reward of the Campaign 
::*Chapter 2 - Searching for a Residence 
::*Chapter 3 - Henrietta's Melancholy, Louise's Anxiety, Saito's Promotion 
::*Chapter 4 - Mother and Cousin 
::*Chapter 5 - Saito Chevalier De Hiraga Des Ornières 
::*Chapter 6 - Daily Tea Time 
::*Chapter 7 - Eléonore's Academy 
::*Chapter 8 - The Basement of the Residence 
::*Chapter 9 - Secret Meeting 
::*Chapter 10 - 元素の兄弟
::*Epilogue

===Volume 17 - The Soeur of Dawn / 黎明の修道女 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume17_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Saito's despair 
::*Chapter 2 - Flight 
::*Chapter 3 - Meeting and Comrade 
::*Chapter 4 - Sulpice 
::*Chapter 5 - First meeting with Jack 
::*Chapter 6 - Damien and Lord Gondrin 
::*Chapter 7 - Soeur Louise 
::*Chapter 8 - Josette's Resolution 
::*Chapter 9 - Two Canes, One Crown 
::*Chapter 10 - Garden Party to Celebrate the Enthronement 
::*Chapter 11 - Bonds 
::*Epilogue

===Volume 18 - Spirit Stone of Destruction / 滅亡の精霊石 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume18_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Lovers 
::*Chapter 2 - Fouquet and Wardes 
::*Chapter 3 - Josette's Garden Party 
::*Chapter 4 - Strategy 
::*Chapter 5 - Confession of the Pope 
::*Chapter 6 - Spirit Stone of Destruction 
::*Chapter 7 - Our Home 
::*Chapter 8 - Elf of the Sahara 
::*Chapter 9 - Chance meeting 
::*Epilogue

=== Side Story Volume 1 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume1_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume1_Story1|Story 1 - Tabitha and the Pterosaur (30%)]]
::*Story 2 - Tabitha and the Vampire
::*Story 3 - Tabitha and the Assassin
::*Story 4 - Tabitha and the Magic Doll

=== Side Story Volume 2 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険2===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume2_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume2_Story5|Story 5 - Tabitha and the Gambler]]
::*Story 6 - Tabitha and the Minotaur
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume2_ExtraChapter|Extra Chapter - A Day in the Life of Sylphid]]
::*Story 7 - Tabitha and the Bird of Paradise
::*Story 8 - Tabitha and the Naval Port

=== Side Story Volume 3 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険3===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume3_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Story 9 - Tabitha and Sylphid
::*Story 10 - Tabitha and the old Warrior
::*Story 11 - Tabitha and first Love
::*Story 12 - Tabitha's Birth

== Project Staff ==
*Project Administrator: [[user:Onizuka-gto|Onizuka-gto]]
*Project Supervisor: [[user:Vaelis|Vaelis]]

=== Translators ===
'''ACTIVE'''
::*[[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]]
::*[[user:Kazesenken|Kazesenken]]
::*[[user:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]]

'''INACTIVE'''
::*[[user:ArchmageXin|ArchmageXin]]
::*[[user:Momogan|Momogan]]
::*[[user:SeiryuuChan|SeiryuuChan]]
::*[[user:Serenade_beta|Serenade beta]]
::*[[user:ShApEsHiFt3r|ShApEsHiFt3r ]]
::*[[user:Trewth|Trewth ]]
::*[[user:Xorius|Xorius]]

'''A.W.O.L'''
::*[[user:christof|christof]]
::*[[user:Claies|Claies]]
::*[[user:Vertiful|Vertiful]]

'''M.I.A'''
::*[[user:Cala-kun|Cala-kun]]
'''K.I.A'''
::*[[user:naturesbless|naturesbless]]
::*[[user:Nidema|Nidema]]
::*[[user:SaiyaJedi|SaiyaJedi]] <- aka "SaitoFromEarth"
::*[[user:Sushi-Y|Sushi-Y]]

=== Editors ===
This is the Project Editorial Team.
They will regularly patrol the projects to prevent vandalism & make sure the guidelines are implemented. If you have any inquiries about certain edits please contact any one of the members.

'''ACTIVE'''
::*[[user:Onizuka-gto|Onizuka-gto]]
::*[[user:DeotoxSlayer|DeotoxSlayer]]
::*[[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]]
::*[[user:Akirasav|Akira]]
::*[[user:BakaSama|BakaSama]]
'''A.W.O.L'''
::*[[user:Bicube|Bicube]]
::*[[user:BaKaFiSh|BaKaFiSh]]
::*[[user:Rednal|Rednal]]
::*[[user:Se-chan|Se-Chan]]
::*[[user:The naming game|The naming game]]
::*[[user:Darkoneko|Darkoneko]]
'''M.I.A'''
::*[[user:Nandeyanen|Nandeyanen]]
'''K.I.A'''
::*[[user:Da~Mike|Da~Mike]]
::*[[user:BlckKnght|BlckKnght]]
::*[[user:Crowkenobi|Crowkenobi]]
::*[[user:Andiyar|Andiyar]]

== Series Overview ==
* Volume 1 - ''Zero's Familiar'' (June 25, 2004)
* Volume 2 - ''Albion of the Wind'' (September 25, 2004)
* Volume 3 - ''The Founder's Prayer Book'' (December 25, 2004)
* Volume 4 - ''The Water Spirit of Oath'' (March 25, 2005)
* Volume 5 - ''Tristania's Holiday'' (July 25, 2005)
* Volume 6 - ''The Ruby of Atonement'' (November 25, 2005)
* Volume 7 - ''The Silver Pentecost'' (February 25, 2006)
* Volume 8 - ''The Serenade of Nostalgia'' (June 25, 2006)
* Volume 9 - ''The Ball of Twin Moons'' (September 25, 2006)
* Volume 10 - ''The Hero of Ivaldi'' (December 25, 2006)
* Volume 11 - ''A Duet of Recollection'' (May 25, 2007)
* Volume 12 - ''The Fairies' Holiday'' (August 25, 2007)
* Volume 13 - ''The World Door of the Holy Country'' (December 25, 2007)
* Volume 14 - ''Aquileia's Saint'' (May 25, 2008)
* Volume 15 - ''Labyrinth of Oblivion'' (September 25, 2008)
* Volume 16 - ''The Tea Time of Des Ornières'' (February 25, 2009)
* Volume 17 - ''The Soeur of Dawn'' (June 25, 2009)

* Side Story Volume 1 - ''Tabitha's Adventure'' (October 25, 2006)
* Side Story Volume 2 - ''Tabitha's Adventure'' (October 25, 2007)
* Side Story Volume 3 - ''Tabitha's Adventure'' (March 25, 2009)

[[Zero no Tsukaima:Series Overview|ISBN information]]

Zero no Tsukaima:Side Story Volume1 Story1

2010-03-07T13:28:19Z

RonnieCorny:

Zero no Tsukaima:Side Story Volume1 Story1

2010-03-05T13:22:22Z

RonnieCorny:

Zero no Tsukaima:Side Story Volume1 Story1

2010-03-05T08:44:44Z

RonnieCorny:

Zero no Tsukaima:Side Story Volume1 Story1

2010-03-04T14:55:18Z

RonnieCorny:

Zero no Tsukaima:Side Story Volume1 Story1

2010-03-04T14:53:25Z

RonnieCorny:

Zero no Tsukaima:Side Story Volume1 Story1

2010-03-03T09:31:00Z

RonnieCorny:

Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter9

2010-03-03T00:28:56Z

RonnieCorny: minor spelling edits

===Chapter Nine: Reunion in Westwood===

“I-is that the village where the half-elf with unnaturally big chest lives?”

Guiche asked restlessly

“What the heck are you talking about.”

“Didn’t you say that? You described the features of that half elf girl - long ear and ‘ridiculous chest’.”

“You seemed to have quite a sneaky conversation behind our backs.”

Kirche teased while grinning.

“B-because it’s the thing that this guy wanted to know the most about!”

“Don’t blame it all on me!”

“But, are that girl’s breasts really that big? Bigger than mine?”

Kirche puffed her chest.

“D-don’t know.”

Saito said feeling awkward.

It was already evening when the party reached the Westwood village. Though due to the position of the moon Albion was considerably closer to the Tristain, it still it took half a day with Sylphid flying at full speed to get here.

Compared to that other time when they went to Galia, the party was in a completely different mood. This time they had a duty to take Tiffania with them.

The only trouble was the need to persuade Tiffania the best they can. It was not dangerous so the party was in a bright mood.

It may not be as trouble-free a duty though, Saito thought.

After all, Louise's cannot use Void now.

Speaking of which, Louise was the only one who was not in a good mood and remained silent most of the time.

Kirche poked Saito.

“Hey, Saito. What did you do to Louise? She is been acting weird since the morning. Always silent…”

“No… to tell the truth…”

After a moment of hesitation, whether to say or not to say, Saito told Kirche about it.

“Oh my! Willpower!”

“Shh! Not so loud!”

Saito lowered his voice so that Louise, who was walking ahead of them, would not hear.

“Araa, so she returned back to Louise the Zero again? However, even if she hides it, it may be a serious disease.”

“Don’t say that. You’ll just make me more worried.”

“But, maybe it’s for the better?”

Kirche said with a serious expression on her face.

“What?”

“This child always had to carry the burden of the ‘legend’ on her shoulders. I would be happy to pass it to someone else.”

It may be so, Saito thought.

Saito threw a nostalgic look at the village in front of him. The Westwood village hardly changed.

Built deep in the forest, the plain, compact houses were hard to notice.

Once entering the place, they immediately headed towards Tiffania’s house. White smoke was rising from thatched roof.

“Oi, you’ll just come in like that?”

“Yep, it’s an easy mission anyway. Compared to the usual hardships, it will be a child’s play.”

Guiche said while humming.

“Mo, really, you should be the last man to relax.”

“Says who? Wasn’t it you who was acting strange lately?’

“Me?”

“Indeed. Though I understand your enthusiasm about becoming sub-commander and all, but somehow it is still strange, as normally you would not be so uptight. It doesn’t feel like an old you at all.”

“Really?”

“Aah, before you lived more comfortably. More at ease! Ahaha!”

Guiche laughed aloud.

“Indeed, when you do not let your guard down like this, it is no good.”

Kirche said.

“I command! Demon or not! Come out of this house this instant!”

Guiche stepped in front of Tiffania’s house and shouted.

“I speak in the name of whole clan! I, Guiche de Gramont, The Knight Corps of the Water Spirit commander! In the name of Her Majesty! This is a royal order!”

When there was no answer, Guiche opened the door.

Momentarily, his body stiffened.

“What? What's wrong? Is the girl changing her clothes inside?”
Amused, Kirche wondered and peeked inside.

Her body stiffened as well.

Saito and Tabitha looked at each other. Then nodding to each other, they both at the same time pushed their heads through the doorway...

Behind the door, in the living room at the table where Saito also used to eat, two people were sitting.

One of them was Tiffania who stared at the party with a blank surprise written all over her face.

However, the nostalgic friend Tiffania was not the only one in the room. And the main problem was that other one.

Tabitha, who poked her head out of the doorway, stated.

“Fouquet.”

Indeed, Tiffania's house guest was none other but the enemy Fouquet. Saito's shoulders began to tremble. He recalled the face of Wales, who met his death on the ground of Albion.

This was the woman who cooperated with the Crown Prince’s murderer Wardes.

The thief Fouquet, the Crumbling Dirt.

He recalled Henrietta’s crying face, the burnt village of Tarbes and a lot of other spectacles during that miserable Albion’s campaign.

“Fouqueeeeeeeeeeet!”

Saito screamed pulling the sword from his back and leaping forwards.

The rune on his left hand shone.

His swing cut an air within a hair of Fouquet’s face. However, Fouquet was a person of no common order. Standing up without a fear of the leaping Saito, she pulled out the wand and blocked the sword.

For a moment their weapons crossed before both of them jumped back and took the attacking positions.

“What are you doing in here?”

“Those are my words.”

The two simultaneously intensely stared into each others eyes, adjusting the timing. Then…

“Stop!”

Tiffania jumped in between them..

“Why are you two fighting?! Saito! Put your sword away!”

“B-but…”

“Matilda nee-san! Do not raise your hand against this person!”

“Matilda nee-san?”

Saito watched Fouquet. Wrong person? Though he thought so, those sharp eyes on the strong face, he really thought against her Golem before – no doubt, it was Fouquet, the Crumbling Dirt.

Fouquet, wondering what was happening, watched between Saito’s and Tiffania’s faces.

After that she shook her head.

“It can’t be helped.”

Saito though, still blinded with anger, tread to plunge forward… but Tiffania clung to his arm.

“Please, Saito. Stop. Though I do not know what happened between you, stop fighting. Please…” Tiffania was crying.

“Damn” Saito silently cursed under his nose but pulled the sword back into the heath again. And then with a plop sat down on the floor.

”Thank you.”

Tiffania showed the expression of gratitude while sobbing.

Guiche, Kirche and Tabitha looked at each other.

“Maybe now, after such a very long time, we should renew the old friendship again?”

Fouquet asked in a tired voice.

Zero no Tsukaima

2010-03-01T05:49:56Z

RonnieCorny: /* Side Story Volume 1 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険 */

[[Image:Znt novel cover.jpg|300px|thumb|Vol.One Cover]]

The ''Zero no Tsukaima'' series is also available in the following languages:
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%28version_fran%C3%A7aise%29|Français (French)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_Deutsche Version|Deutsch (German)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%7E_Indonesian_Version|Bahasa Indonesia (Indonesian)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%7EItalian_Version%7E|Italiano (Italian)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_Korean_Version|한국어 (Korean)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_wersja_polska|Polski (Polish)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_~Russian_Version~|Русский (Russian)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%7EVersi%C3%B3n_Espa%C3%B1ola%7E|Español (Spanish)]]
*[http://vnsharing.net/forum/showthread.php?t=73861 Việt Nam (Vietnamese)]

(Note: Translation progress varies for each version.)
----
Visit the [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/index.php Baka-Tsuki Project Forum] to discuss this series and other information from Baka-Tsuki.

== Updates == 

*September 10, 2009:
:* [[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Full Text|Volume 10 full-text version]] is up.

Older updates can be found on the [[Zero_no_Tsukaima_news_archive|ZnT news archive]].

== Translation ==

=== Translators Needed ===

'''Baka-Tsuki is desperately looking for translators for this series.''' If you would like to help translate this series, please post in the forums [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=25&t=714&start=135 here], and we will help you get started. Thank you.

=== [[Zero no Tsukaima Registration|Registration]] ===
Translators are requested to mark all the chapters they are translating on the [[Zero no Tsukaima Registration|Registration Page]] according to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Guideline#Translation_Management|Translation Management]] section of ''Zero no Tsukaima'' [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Guideline|Project Specific Guidelines]].
=== Format Standards ===
Every chapter (after editing) must conform to the agreed points highlighted in [[Format_guideline|Format/Style Guideline]].

Some of these chapters are translations of the '''Chinese edition''' of the novels, which are known to have some minor mistakes compared to the original Japanese text. If you have access to the originals and you spot an error, '''please feel free to make the corrections yourself''' - this is a Wiki which means it's meant for anyone to fix things (and if you screw up, we can revert back your changes if all deem necessary). We can see the corrections you make, so just go ahead instead of hiding or waiting for permission.

[http://www.baka-tsuki.net/project/index.php?title=Zero_no_Tsukaima:guidelines Naming Conventions For ZnT]

=== Joint Collaboration ===
This Project was a [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=246 joint collaboration] with the following groups:
* [http://kh.beyondeternal.com/ Kawaii Heavens] (who also worked on the manga version of this series)
::*Volume 1 (all chapters)


*[http://www.k-neko.net/ Kuroneko]
::*Volume 1, Chapter 1
::*Volume 1, Chapter 2

== ''Zero no Tsukaima'' series by Noboru Yamaguchi ==
=== Volume 1 - Zero's Familiar / ゼロの使い魔 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume1_Insert_&_Back Cover|Insert & Back Cover]]
'''Kingdom of Magic'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - I'm a Familiar]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Louise the Zero]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Legend]]
'''Gandálfr'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - A Familiar's Day]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Kirche the Ardent]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Tristain's Arms Dealer]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Staff of Destruction]]

=== Volume 2 - Albion of the Wind / 風のアルビオン [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - A Secret Boat]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Her Majesty's Melancholy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - A Childhood Friend's Request]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Port City - La Rochelle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - A Rest Day Before Leaving]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The White Country]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - The Prince of a Dying Country]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - The Eve before the Final Battle in Newcastle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - The Final Battle]]

=== Volume 3 - The Founder's Prayer Book / 始祖の祈祷書 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter1_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 1 - Lineage of Zero]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Louise's Lovesickness]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - The Founder's Prayer Book]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Love Triangle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - The Arsenal and the Royal Family]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Treasure Hunting]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Dragon's Raiment]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - Colbert's Laboratory]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter9|Chapter 9 - Declaration of War]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter10|Chapter 10 - The Void]]

=== Volume 4 - The Water Spirit of Oath / 誓約の水精霊 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Prologue|Prologue]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The Saint]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Saito Goes Shopping in the Triumphant Town]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - The Sailor Outfit and Louise's Jealousy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter4_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 4 - Tabitha's Secret]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter5_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 5 - The Strength of a Love Potion]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - The Water Spirit]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - The Ring of Andvari]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - Reunion with Falsehood]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - Confrontation of Sadness]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Epilogue|Epilogue]]

=== Volume 5 - Tristania's Holiday / トリスタニアの休日 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The "Charming Fairies" Inn]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - The Encounter with the Flame and the Friendship with the Wind]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - Tristania's Holiday]]

=== Volume 6 - The Ruby of Atonement / 贖罪の炎赤石 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - Homecoming]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Cattleya]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Duke de La Vallière]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Commanding Officer Guiche and Officer Cadet Malicorne]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Flame of Twenty Years Ago]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - Sortie]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - The Illusion at Dartanes]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - The Atonement of Flame]]

=== Volume 7 - The Silver Pentecost / 銀の降臨祭 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The Temperature Difference between the Two]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Fairy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - The Shinto Priest of Romalia]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - The Secretary and the Emperor]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - The Ancient City of Saxe-Gotha]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - Truce]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - The Reason to Fight]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - King of Gallia]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - Rout]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter10|Chapter 10 - The Place of Courage]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Epilogue|Epilogue]]

=== Volume 8 - The Serenade of Nostalgia / 望郷の小夜曲 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter1_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 1 - Each End of the War]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Saito's Morning]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - The Golden Elf]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter4_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 4 - The Visit of the Shinto Priest]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter5_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 5 - The Disappearing Gandálfr]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - The Nations Conference]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - Louise's Decision]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - The Users of Void]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - Myoznitnirn]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter10_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 10 - Swordsman]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Epilogue_%7EPreview%7E| Epilogue]]

=== Volume 9 - The Ball of Twin Moons / 双月の舞踏会 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter1 ~Preview~|Chapter 1 - Louise's Fear]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter2 ~Preview~|Chapter 2 - The Elf of the Forest]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter3 ~Preview~|Chapter 3 - The Meeting and Parting of the Users]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter4 ~Preview~|Chapter 4 - The Chevalier Title]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Ondine ・ Knight Corps of the Water Spirit]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The Feelings of the Queen]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Solicitation]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Ball of Sleipnir]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume9 Chapter9|Chapter 9 - The Confrontation with the Mysterious Bird]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume9 Epilogue|Epilogue]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume9 Translator's Notes|Translator's Notes]]

=== Volume 10 - The Hero of Ivaldi / イーヴァルディの勇者 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The ''Ostland'']]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Chapter2|Chapter 2 - The Elf]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Anxiety and Jealousy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - The Queen and the Knights]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Siblings]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The Imprisoned Six]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Settlement of the Past]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Old Mansion of Orléans]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter9|Chapter 9 - Alhambra Castle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter10|Chapter 10 - The Hero of Ivaldi]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Epilogue|Epilogue]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Postscript|Postscript]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Translator's Notes|Translator's Notes]]

=== Volume 11 - A Duet of Recollection / 追憶の二重奏===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume11_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter1|Chapter 1 - Von Zerbst]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter2|Chapter 2 - The Queen and the Duke]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Karin the Heavy Wind]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter4|Chapter 4 - The Vallière Family]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter5|Chapter 5 - New School Term]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Private Lesson]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter7|Chapter 7 - The Pope of Romalia]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter8|Chapter 8 - Jörmungand]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter9|Chapter 9 - Reunion in Westwood]]
::*Chapter 10 - The Heart of the Duet
::*Epilogue

=== Volume 12 - The Fairies' Holiday / 妖精達の休日===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Prologue|Prologue]]
''' New Student from the White Country (Albion)'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
::*Chapter 4
'''Knight Corps of the Undine, Charge!'''
::*Chapter 1
::*Chapter 2
'''Right to Use Saito for a Day'''
::*Chapter 1
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Section3_Chapter2|Chapter 2]] (1%)

=== Volume 13 - The World Door of the Holy Country / 聖国の世界扉===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Romalia
::*Chapter 2 - Saito's Decision
::*Chapter 3 - Aboard the ''Ostland''
::*Chapter 4 - The Two Knight Corps
::*Chapter 5 - The Persuasion of the Pope
::*Chapter 6 - Long Spear
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - World Door]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Meaning of the Smile]]
::*Epilogue

===Volume 14 - Aquileia's Saint / 水都市の聖女===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume14_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - The Flowerbed Squadron's Rebellion
::*Chapter 2 - The Third Annual Enthronement Ceremony
::*Chapter 3 - An Elven Gandalfr
::*Chapter 4 - The Capital of Water
::*Chapter 5 - Six Thousand Years Ago
::*Chapter 6 - Tiger Highway
::*Chapter 7 - Aquileia's Saint
::*Chapter 8 - The Steel Tiger
::*Chapter 9 - The Memory of the Bond
::*Epilogue

===Volume 15 - Labyrinth of Oblivion / 忘却の夢迷宮 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume15_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Carcassonne
::*Chapter 2 - The Knight Contest of the Sandbank
::*Chapter 3 - A Shaken Mind
::*Chapter 4 - The Jewel of Fire
::*Chapter 5 - Honeymoon
::*Chapter 6 - Tabitha's Long Night
::*Chapter 7 - Henrietta's Diplomatic Plan
::*Chapter 8 - Coronation
::*Chapter 9 - The Exit of the Labyrinth
::*Epilogue

===Volume 16 - The Tea Time of Des Ornières / ド・オルニエールの安穏 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume16_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - The Reward of the Campaign 
::*Chapter 2 - Searching for a Residence 
::*Chapter 3 - Henrietta's Melancholy, Louise's Anxiety, Saito's Promotion 
::*Chapter 4 - Mother and Cousin 
::*Chapter 5 - Saito Chevalier De Hiraga Des Ornières 
::*Chapter 6 - Daily Tea Time 
::*Chapter 7 - Eléonore's Academy 
::*Chapter 8 - The Basement of the Residence 
::*Chapter 9 - Secret Meeting 
::*Chapter 10 - 元素の兄弟
::*Epilogue

===Volume 17 - The Soeur of Dawn / 黎明の修道女 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume17_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Saito's despair 
::*Chapter 2 - Flight 
::*Chapter 3 - Meeting and Comrade 
::*Chapter 4 - Sulpice 
::*Chapter 5 - First meeting with Jack 
::*Chapter 6 - Damien and Lord Gondrin 
::*Chapter 7 - Soeur Louise 
::*Chapter 8 - Josette's Resolution 
::*Chapter 9 - Two Canes, One Crown 
::*Chapter 10 - Garden Party to Celebrate the Enthronement 
::*Chapter 11 - Bonds 
::*Epilogue

===Volume 18 - Spirit Stone of Destruction / 滅亡の精霊石 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume18_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Lovers 
::*Chapter 2 - Fouquet and Wardes 
::*Chapter 3 - Josette's Garden Party 
::*Chapter 4 - Strategy 
::*Chapter 5 - Confession of the Pope 
::*Chapter 6 - Spirit Stone of Destruction 
::*Chapter 7 - Our Home 
::*Chapter 8 - Elf of the Sahara 
::*Chapter 9 - Chance meeting 
::*Epilogue

=== Side Story Volume 1 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume1_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume1_Story1|Story 1 - Tabitha and the Pterosaur (3%)]]
::*Story 2 - Tabitha and the Vampire
::*Story 3 - Tabitha and the Assassin
::*Story 4 - Tabitha and the Magic Doll

=== Side Story Volume 2 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険2===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume2_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume2_Story5|Story 5 - Tabitha and the Gambler]]
::*Story 6 - Tabitha and the Minotaur
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume2_ExtraChapter|Extra Chapter - A Day in the Life of Sylphid]]
::*Story 7 - Tabitha and the Bird of Paradise
::*Story 8 - Tabitha and the Naval Port

=== Side Story Volume 3 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険3===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume3_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Story 9 - Tabitha and Sylphid
::*Story 10 - Tabitha and the old Warrior
::*Story 11 - Tabitha and first Love
::*Story 12 - Tabitha's Birth

== Project Staff ==
*Project Administrator: [[user:Onizuka-gto|Onizuka-gto]]
*Project Supervisor: [[user:Vaelis|Vaelis]]

=== Translators ===
'''ACTIVE'''
::*[[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]]
::*[[user:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]]

'''INACTIVE'''
::*[[user:ArchmageXin|ArchmageXin]]
::*[[user:Momogan|Momogan]]
::*[[user:SeiryuuChan|SeiryuuChan]]
::*[[user:Serenade_beta|Serenade beta]]
::*[[user:ShApEsHiFt3r|ShApEsHiFt3r ]]
::*[[user:Trewth|Trewth ]]
::*[[user:Xorius|Xorius]]

'''A.W.O.L'''
::*[[user:christof|christof]]
::*[[user:Claies|Claies]]
::*[[user:Vertiful|Vertiful]]

'''M.I.A'''
::*[[user:Cala-kun|Cala-kun]]
'''K.I.A'''
::*[[user:naturesbless|naturesbless]]
::*[[user:Nidema|Nidema]]
::*[[user:SaiyaJedi|SaiyaJedi]] <- aka "SaitoFromEarth"
::*[[user:Sushi-Y|Sushi-Y]]

=== Editors ===
This is the Project Editorial Team.
They will regularly patrol the projects to prevent vandalism & make sure the guidelines are implemented. If you have any inquiries about certain edits please contact any one of the members.

'''ACTIVE'''
::*[[user:Onizuka-gto|Onizuka-gto]]
::*[[user:DeotoxSlayer|DeotoxSlayer]]
::*[[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]]
::*[[user:Akirasav|Akira]]
::*[[user:BakaSama|BakaSama]]
'''A.W.O.L'''
::*[[user:Bicube|Bicube]]
::*[[user:BaKaFiSh|BaKaFiSh]]
::*[[user:Rednal|Rednal]]
::*[[user:Se-chan|Se-Chan]]
::*[[user:The naming game|The naming game]]
::*[[user:Darkoneko|Darkoneko]]
'''M.I.A'''
::*[[user:Nandeyanen|Nandeyanen]]
'''K.I.A'''
::*[[user:Da~Mike|Da~Mike]]
::*[[user:BlckKnght|BlckKnght]]
::*[[user:Crowkenobi|Crowkenobi]]
::*[[user:Andiyar|Andiyar]]

== Series Overview ==
* Volume 1 - ''Zero's Familiar'' (June 25, 2004)
* Volume 2 - ''Albion of the Wind'' (September 25, 2004)
* Volume 3 - ''The Founder's Prayer Book'' (December 25, 2004)
* Volume 4 - ''The Water Spirit of Oath'' (March 25, 2005)
* Volume 5 - ''Tristania's Holiday'' (July 25, 2005)
* Volume 6 - ''The Ruby of Atonement'' (November 25, 2005)
* Volume 7 - ''The Silver Pentecost'' (February 25, 2006)
* Volume 8 - ''The Serenade of Nostalgia'' (June 25, 2006)
* Volume 9 - ''The Ball of Twin Moons'' (September 25, 2006)
* Volume 10 - ''The Hero of Ivaldi'' (December 25, 2006)
* Volume 11 - ''A Duet of Recollection'' (May 25, 2007)
* Volume 12 - ''The Fairies' Holiday'' (August 25, 2007)
* Volume 13 - ''The World Door of the Holy Country'' (December 25, 2007)
* Volume 14 - ''Aquileia's Saint'' (May 25, 2008)
* Volume 15 - ''Labyrinth of Oblivion'' (September 25, 2008)
* Volume 16 - ''The Tea Time of Des Ornières'' (February 25, 2009)
* Volume 17 - ''The Soeur of Dawn'' (June 25, 2009)

* Side Story Volume 1 - ''Tabitha's Adventure'' (October 25, 2006)
* Side Story Volume 2 - ''Tabitha's Adventure'' (October 25, 2007)
* Side Story Volume 3 - ''Tabitha's Adventure'' (March 25, 2009)

[[Zero no Tsukaima:Series Overview|ISBN information]]

Zero no Tsukaima:Side Story Volume1 Story1

2010-03-01T04:59:48Z

RonnieCorny:

Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter8

2010-02-28T04:11:46Z

RonnieCorny: spelling corrections

===Chapter Eight: Jörmungand ===

“Louise, class started.”

Saito tried to wake Louise up. However, Louise tugged back on the blanket and did not come out of the bed.

“Get up.”

Saito pulled the blanket. However, she pulled it back with force. Looked like Louise had no intentions of getting out of the bed. Siesta, who watched that sort of scene, primly poked Saito's shoulder.

“N?”

Then Siesta clung to Saito and shouted.

“Such a thing! Saito-san! Doing such a thing so early in the morning!”

Still, Louise didn’t get up from the bed. She seemed to be considerably depressed.

“Hey Louise… You are really depressed...”

Siesta abruptly parted from Saito and said with a polite cough.

“Saito-san, what did you do to make Miss Vallière depressed?”

“Huh? I didn’t do anything.”

“Liar. Then, why is Miss Vallière depressed so much? What did you do to that girl?”

“Just what kind of person you think I am?!”

“Is it true?”

“It is. Why would I do such things to Tabitha. Louise is depressed about her magic not working. Hey, Louise, stop sulking this instant.”

Saito rocked Louise.

“Saito-san.”

“N?”

“That small girl… Indeed, it must really be your fetish. My mother said – when a man loves small girls more than needed, he will perpetrate in the future.”

“You see…”

“But, if Saito-san has to perpetrate then… I…”

Siesta’s face turned crimson, putting more fuss into Saito’s brains.

“Anyway, we need to wake Louise up… Hey Siesta, hold this.”

Saito and Siesta held the edges of the blanket and pulled. Clinging to the blanket, Louise rolled with it to the floor. The baby doll dress from yesterday, somewhat suited to wear as a nightdress. Because it was a chilly night, Siesta put the clothes on.

“Oi, Louise. Morning.”

“Fnya.”

Though Saito patted her cheek, Louise stayed almost unresponsive. All that she did – was look at the ceiling absent-mindedly.

“Uwaa, she really looks like an empty doll.”

Siesta poked Louise.

“Fnya.”

“Miss Vallière, wake up.”

“Fnya. Fnya fnya.”

“Wa, this is really amusing.”

Siesta poked all over Louise. But Louise remained still.

“Come on… Hey Louise, everyone feels sad once in a while. But this is too depressing.”

Then, Louise’s mouth was opened with a lot of effort. And said in an empty voice.

“Useless. I cannot use ‘Void’ at all. Even the ‘explosion’ is not working no matter what I recite. That’s how it is now.”

“It’s just a bad mood.”

However, such Saito's attempts to comfort her, did not reach Louise, lying on the floor.

“What to do… Only because of ‘Void’ I was of any use… Without it I am back to being Louise the Zero again…”

“It’s just back to the start, alright?”

However Louise responded no more. She just stared absent-mindedly into the space.

“Derf.”

Saito decided to ask the sword. Recently Derflinger was neglected on numerous occasions, so he answered in a foul mood.

“Andayo. So you call me out when you need an advice, huh. And you pull me out when you need to cut, huh. What if I am tired?”

“Listen up. Louise cannot use ‘Void’ anymore, can you tell us something about it?”

“Well I guess it’s because the willpower is down.”

“Really? Is that all? Then all she needs is just to rest?”

“No, because it’s 'Void' the matter is not that simple. With usual elements you need to rest a number of days to recover…’Void’, though, is unclear how gets accumulated and up till now it was used a lot. Remember that big explosion Louise cast?”

“Ah, you mean the one that destroyed that huge battleship?”

“That one, and it consumed a lot of her willpower that she was storing up till then. Therefore, she could shoot such big thing. Since then the remaining willpower has been consumed little by little. She wasn’t able to cast anything as big, right?”

It was as he said. There was no such huge light balls anymore.

“Then, she only needs to restore some of it again.”

“But how long will it take to cast ‘Void’ again? One year, two years… or maybe a whole decade…”

“Then we’ll be very patient.”

“She may not be able to cast it with such power again.”

Saito looked at Louise. She was lying spread on the floor, her eyes puffy from crying.

It hurt Saito to see Louise like this.

“Hey Louise, give it a break. You already worked hard enough. Even God-sama said to take a rest in a while.”

“… that’s impossible.”

“What?”

“I can’t settle down while knowing there is someone scheming something bad. Besides I still need to find a way to return you home. There are still many things left unfinished. Yet… I am useless like this…”

[[Image:ZnT11-173.jpg|thumb]]

Louise began to cry again. Siesta tried to comfort Louise.

“That… Miss Vallière is not useless. You are pretty. And you have a power to comfort anyone. Hey, stop crying.”

However, Louise did not stop crying. With Louise being so sad, even Siesta started to weep.

Now then, what to do, he started to worry…

“Saitooooooooo! An order came! All Knights of the Undine Corps are commanded by Her Majesty!”

Guiche jumped in.

“Commanded?”

“That’s right! We, The Knight Corps of the Undine and Louise, were given a direct command. Aah I'm so glad! Though we were not punished, I was still nervous thinking that Her Majesty might still be displeased!”

“You were nervous? You were just fooling around!”

“Don’t say such mean things. Though I had a laughing face on the outside, I was not calm inside. Anyways, my worries were just imaginary tears. Her Majesty’s trust in us is still unshaken!”

“Tsk, so what about princess-sama?

“Anyways, we need to come to the castle. Aah, lets go. We cannot attend lessons now!”

Guiche trembled with joy.

Saito really did not want to trouble Louise at such time. However… because they passed the border without permission, refusing to go now, may cause some tension between them and Henrietta.

Saito quickly got ready. However, he only carried Derflinger on his back.

“What about others?”

“For the time being - only you, me and Louise were asked to come.”

“Louise can’t.”

“Eh? Why?”

“I’ll go.”

Thumbing, Louise stood up.

“Don’t over do it. Your condition is bad right now.”

“Bad or good – it is of no importance.”

“What, what is wrong?”

Guiche with a surprised expression stared at the couple.

“No, this fellow? Right now, her magic… ouch!”

Louise suddenly kicked Saito between his legs, making him to faint in agony.

“…You talk too much. If it is something concerning Her Majesty - I will go no matter what.”

At that time, an owl flew in from the window.

“Ara. Tourukas? What’s the matter?”

Saito recalled this name. Where have I heard it before? – he wondered, while the owl passed Louise an envelope.

“Letter to the Louise-sama.”

“Letter?”

Louise began to read the letter. For a moment, her face lightened up… and then became cloudy again.

And then paled.

“What’s wrong? From whom is the letter?”

There was no answer. Louise folded the letter, placed it into her pocket, and staggered towards the closet to change her clothes.

“Oi, are you really alright?”

In the acadamy's stable, Saito asked Louise while putting a saddle on his horse, but Louise didn’t answer. Pressing her lips into a thin line, she silently straddled the horse.

Well, it will probably be an easy mission, so it’s alright. While he thought so, passing the school’s gates, Sylphid flew down from the sky and landed in front of everyone.

“What the? You!”

He saw Tabitha and Kirche on top of it.

“I’ll go too.”

Surprisingly, the one who opened the mouth was not Kirche but Tabitha.

“This child, after she saw you out of the window, she dashed outside in an instant.

Kirche said whilst spreading her arms wide open.

“Y-you? Why?”

Saito asked in surprise, after a short moment. Last night too, she was really eager to help him to learn the Helgekian written language.

“Silly question. That’s because you helped me.”

“It wasn’t just me who helped you.”

Saito said.

“Surely, you must be special.”

Kirche said while laughing.

“Louise, it’s not like that.”
　
Saito called out Louise, fearing unforeseen retribution from her.

However Louise was still looking detached. She just straddled the horse and rode forward alone.

“Oi, Louise. There’s no need to ride a horse. Sylphid could carry us.”

Even though Saito called her, Louise just urged the horse with the riding crop.

“What are you-“

A little while ago, after reading the letter, she started to act strange. No, she has been acting strange for a while already - Saito thought, while he, together with Guiche, perched on Sylphid’s back.

Sylphid flapped her mighty wings and lifted herself up into the sky.

Seeing them before her, Louise bent forward and hastily urged the horse to sprint faster.

Ignoring that, Saito asked Sylphid.

“Sylphid, pull her in as well.”

“Kyuikyui.”

Sylphid made joyful sounds, and landed down before Louise and the horse. Seeing the dragon appear, horse stopped in its tracks and neighed in fear.

Sylphid dexterously extended her long tongue, and carefully pulled Louise from the saddle and threw her over the back.

With a loud ‘huff’ Saito caught Louise in his arms.

Despite being treated so harshly, Louise did not complain, only her shoulders trembled slightly.

“N? What’s wrong with this child?”

What was written in that letter?

Saito felt uneasy.

Was it something concerning the ‘Void’? Saito suddenly remembered where he heard of that owl before.

It was Louise’s family’s owl! He recalled - once, this Tourukas flew through Cattleya’s carriage window and landed on Saito’s head.

Someone from that strict family of Louise's must have asked of her something – Saito concluded. The letter must have been surely concerning the willpower, and for Louise, who just lost her ability to use ‘Void’, it felt like a final blow.

Talking to her right now won’t do any good – Saito thought, gently holding her.

After waiting impatiently for the group to arrive to the royal palace, Henrietta seemed to be very worried. The queen looked at every one of The Knight Corps of the Water Spirit. The Undine knight squad that Saito was an assistant commander of.

“Welcome. There’s something I have to ask from you.”

“What are your orders, your majesty?”

Guiche kneeled on one knee, while Henrietta spoke of her request.

“I want you to bring here the ‘Void’ user from Albion.”

“Tiffania?”

Saito asked surprised and Henrietta nodded.

“… It is not good to have a ‘Void’ user living all alone like that. Besides she has Albion’s royal family’s keepsake, so she must be my cousin. I cannot overlook that. When sooner or later Galia expands, she could be attacked by that demon just like you, Louise.”

“She is not alone. She lives with orphans. Tiffania is acting in their mother’s place.”

“Then please bring those orphans too. Let’s secure their lives.”

“…I see. If you are worried to this extent, then we will bring them.”

“Thank you. This is my wish.”

Henrietta said, placing her elbows on the chair and taking a deep sigh. Seeing her like this, Saito wondered.

“Is there something troubling you?”

“I will tell you sooner or later. For now, just hurry up and go.”

“Ship preparations will take time…”

Then, the small figure of Tabitha behind them uttered silently.

“Sylphid.”

“Indeed. Because it is a wind dragon it is faster than a ship.”

Guiche nodded.

Henrietta noticed Tabitha and took her hand.

“Princess of Galia. I wish to express my gratitude for your cooperation. Sooner or later we will need to discuss about you and future plans.”

Tabitha gave a small nod.

“For your return, let's prepare the ship of Rosais. Anyway, the sooner we leave for Albion the better.”

Henrietta, who seemed to be heavily worried, informed the party cordially. Saito looked from Henrietta to Louise. It was unusual that these two friends haven’t talked. Must be because they both had their own worries. The separate problems occupied both their minds completely.

Saito had uneasy feeling. What on earth was happening?

San Marin – town of Gallia, situated at the sea.

Here was the base of Gallia’s navy, similar to every Halkeginia’s air base, various buildings were built in there. Iron towers, including pier ships, and the brick houses stood in rows.

There was one building in the corner of this urban area.

It had the foundations made of bricks and mortar, hidden by the tree frames and sail cloth as the roof, pulled over the cut into half column, laid down in it’s full length.

The guards were placed in the surroundings to keep the citizens from coming close to the outskirts.

One huge ship, approached the iron tower built in front of that building.

The soldiers in the sentry, looked up at the ship.

“Ha, isn’t that Charles Orleans?”

“Unusually huge ship.”

This was a Gallia’s royal family’s warship named after the crown prince who died three years ago. 150 mails in total length, after the Lexington of the Albion’s air force sank, it was the largest warship in Halkeginia.

Seeing the royal family flag flapping on the mast, the guard was speechless.

“Hey, look at the flag. The king is on it’s deck.”

“True. Is it some kind of inspection?”

The guard said absentmindedly, narrowing his eyes.

“Could this be about the ‘experimentation building’?

“What?”

“Don’t you know? A lot of suspicious folks were loitering around lately. Finally, even king-sama arrived. Between you and me, they say that even an elf was seen.”

Lowering his voice his fellow whispered.

“Elf? It must be a lie. Some sort of drunkards deliriums surely.”

“No no, it seems to be true. It had unusually clear face. And in the middle of the night they say that it, together with the followers, went to the ‘experimentation building’. It is said that a pair of sharp ears were seen peeking from the hat edges too.”

His mate trembled.

“Don’t be afraid.”

The ship moored to the iron tower, and the gathered orchestra began to play, greeting the king. Soldiers in formal uniforms lined up left and right alongside the stone path from the iron tower, saluting with their wands.

The gangway came down from the ship and a vivid blue haired hero-like figure appeared.

“What does the ‘incapable king’ want from such a place as this?”

“But…”

His mate turned around and looked up at the huge ‘experimentation building’ and whispered.

“Just between us, but what the heck is this thing anyway?”

The temperature made Mrs. Molière, who entered the ‘experimental building’, lift her eyebrows. It felt like a steam bath inside.

“It’s hot.”

The mistress dizzily looked up. However, the king didn’t really seem to mind the heat. The man in scholar clothes besides them explained.

“It is done with purpose. The whole building is covered with sail cloth so that no air or sound escape. Inside the air is heated by the spring sunshine level. It is created by numerous blast-furnaces. It is easier to keep the heat when you prevent it’s leak.”

“What did you want me to see then?”

Mrs. Molière sulkily asked. A lot of suspicious jars and pans were queued up used for difficult magical researching. Large blast-furnaces were melting the bright red steel producing incredible heat.

There were a lot of men in researches clothing coming giving some work instructions to busy workers and leaving. Every worker was told beforehand about Joseph’s visit so they were trying to not pay attention.

One section they passed had large anvils lined up. Blacksmiths surrounding them were forging a ten mail length steel plate. A large number of such plates were already piled up nearside.

“What for you make such big steel plates?”

When Mrs. Molière asked, Joseph shook his head and answered.

“For armor.”

“Mo! Who would wear such huge armor?!”

However, Joseph didn't answer.

Finally, after some time, they arrived to the central, very spacious, portion in the building. Seats reserved for special guests were installed there - his retainer was already prepared for the waited Joseph's arrival.

“We waited for your, Joseph-sama.”

It was a slim woman whose face was hidden under the deep hood, and after her words, she bowed reverently. Mrs. Molière, saw this figure few times in the palace. The mistress felt something cold in that woman, and quietly drew closer to Joseph.

“Aah Myoz! Myoz!”

However, Joseph ran up to the hooded woman and embraced her strongly. The hooded woman’s, called Myoz, edges of the lips curved up. Mrs. Molière puckered up her brows.

“Once I heard that one item was completed, I flew here in an instant.”

“It was possible only due to the cooperation of lord Bidashal.”

A man standing next to Myoz, slightly bent his skinny body, paying his devoirs to Joseph.

Because of the big hat he wore, one could not see his face. Only a small mouth slightly peeped out.

“Oh Bidashal! You did great! In the tough making of ‘Jörmungand ’ you helped a lot!”

“I fulfilled my part of agreement.”

Bidashal said in non-chalant voice.

To these words Mrs. Molière’s eyebrows arched even higher up. Such words were unsuited talking to the king, but Joseph didn’t seem to mind that.

“What? You are talking about ‘Jörmungand ’s’ completion as if it was a failure!”

“But Your Majesty, all that matters is your niece who is still in Tristain’s hands - I do not care about any other internal affairs.”

“That Tristainian lass? I’ll use my measures to get her. Leave.”

Joseph was already crazy about the new toy.

Mrs. Molière took an interest into this ‘Jörmungand ’ that made the kind so obsessed.

“Your Majesty, could you tell me what is that ‘Jörmungand ’?”

“Remember that knight doll you once gave me?”

“The knight doll?”

Mrs. Molière was taken away by the shock. Did the king use such an enormous building just to make himself a new toy doll?

Since he is the king, I guess that would not matter much – Mrs. Molière thought. In that artificial miniature garden, Joseph was amusing himself with war all day long.

“Behold.”

Joseph sat on the prepared chair. Mrs. Molière sat next to him.

There was a wide spacious place before them. Its circular shape made it look like coliseum.

“What will happen, some kind of show will start?”

“The entertainment. The entertainment! Indeed, a joyful entertainment will start now!”

Joseph, watched coliseum with a boy-like fascination.

While Mrs. Molière was waiting quietly as well… the hedge on the west side opened, and with a loud, earth-shattering sounds, the ten mails height, huge golem appeared.

“It’s just an earth golem.”

Mrs. Molière said in a disappointed voice, watching the scene. Indeed, though it was a splendid Golem, it was still the usual earth golem.

One after another three earth golems appeared.

One golem picked up the cannon placed in the corner of coliseum. The he prepared the cannon – packed the gunpowder and loaded a shell. Such move took Mrs. Molière’s breath away. Even the usual just walking golem could do a lot of destruction.

And for such huge golem - its movements were unusually dexterous.

“The elites of the west Lily flower bed knights - square class earth golems.”

Myoz explained.

Indeed, square class…

“Umm, is that golem a ‘Jörmungand ’?”

However, Joseph did not answer.

Then…

The edge of Joseph's lip lifted up, and his face became like a birds of prey.

The hedge on the east side opened, and another huge golem appeared.

Mrs. Molière’s eyes opened wide. A tiny gasp escaped her lips.

The ‘thing’ that appeared was not only enormous, but also carried an ominous atmosphere around it.

“W-what is that?...”

It was a 25 mails height giant, and like a person’s wearing a robe, its body was wrapped up in a sail. He was at the size of ceilings. However, his movements were totally different from the ones usually associated with golems.

Giant took one step.

Zam! – earth trembled, and the chair, on which Mrs. Molière sat, shook.

However, apart the loud sound, it walked gracefully like a true human.

“T-this golem can really walk so smoothly…”

Mrs. Molière wondered.

“Walking smoothly is not the only thing it can.”

Not able to contain the joy, Joseph said in awe.

Three golems, bending slightly, moved towards the newly appeared ‘Jörmungand ’.

Two golems moved to right and left.

In quickness that doesn't suit such gigantic body, golems pulled out a punch.

Thud!

A big cloud of dust lifted and Mrs. Molière instinctively shuts her eyes.

The two golems fists heavily planted against the left and right sides of Jörmungand ’s face.

When she squeezed her eyes open… she saw a surprising spectacle.

Jörmungand was holding the fists of right and left earth golems tightly in his grasp.

“What a power…”

After leaving such a strong impression, the spectacle before Mrs. Molière’s eyes continued to unfold even further.

Jörmungand , pulled right and left golems, and crushed them into each other.

A monstrous cloud of dust flew up, forcing Mrs. Molière into a violent coughing fit.

The two golems were completely mashed against each other, and now only one big pile of dirt remained.

The last earth golem aimed the cannon at Jörmungand . Mrs. Molière instinctively shouted.

“Stop! If it shoots the cannon, Jörmungand will crumble! It’s dangerous!”

Mrs. Molière’s shout did not reach anyone - the golem light up the match cord and launched the cannon. The roaring sound was deafening, a severe firing line burned the eyes, and the jet-black smoke filled the place.

The roof sailcloth, flapped loudly.

Mrs. Molière closed her eyes again.

Now it turned into rubble for sure… she thought slowly opening her eyes again, but Jörmungand was still standing there.

The improvised robe of sailcloth was completely torn by the cannon shell, and Jörmungand 's surface was visible.

It was the shining steel that met Mrs. Molière’s eyes.

“The armor… Just how thick is this armor?...”

Though he wore such armor, Jörmungand plunged forward in a speed of blitz. Hit by the Jörmungand 's tackle, earth golem shattered in an instant.

Witnessing such unbelievable spectacle with her own two eyes, Mrs. Molière was completely at a loss of words.

After a moment of silence, Mrs. Molière finally worked out the words out of her throat, barely able to think.

“Your Majesty… what kind of monster you created.”

“Primal and legendary – when those two elements combine, they create a miracle.”

“…ten of such monsters would be enough to conquer Halkeginia.”

“Ten? Much more than that – we’ll create a whole knight unit of Jörmungands.”

Mrs. Molière suddenly recalled the huge steel plates she saw before, and her eyes widened.

Not being able to grasp the spectacle and the Joseph’s words together, she fainted.

“Did you like it?”

Myoz… Myoznitnirn came infront of Joseph and kneeled down on one knee.

“Of course. Turned very well. This knight doll…”

“Real value cannot be measured until it’s used in the actual combat.”

“We already have perfectly fitting guys for that.”

Joseph smiled.

“My brother. We will capture my niece easily… with this Jörmungand …”

Zero no Tsukaima

2010-02-27T16:25:17Z

RonnieCorny: /* Side Story Volume 1 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険 */

[[Image:Znt novel cover.jpg|300px|thumb|Vol.One Cover]]

The ''Zero no Tsukaima'' series is also available in the following languages:
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%28version_fran%C3%A7aise%29|Français (French)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_Deutsche Version|Deutsch (German)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%7E_Indonesian_Version|Bahasa Indonesia (Indonesian)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%7EItalian_Version%7E|Italiano (Italian)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_Korean_Version|한국어 (Korean)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_wersja_polska|Polski (Polish)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_~Russian_Version~|Русский (Russian)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%7EVersi%C3%B3n_Espa%C3%B1ola%7E|Español (Spanish)]]
*[http://vnsharing.net/forum/showthread.php?t=73861 Việt Nam (Vietnamese)]

(Note: Translation progress varies for each version.)
----
Visit the [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/index.php Baka-Tsuki Project Forum] to discuss this series and other information from Baka-Tsuki.

== Updates == 

*September 10, 2009:
:* [[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Full Text|Volume 10 full-text version]] is up.

Older updates can be found on the [[Zero_no_Tsukaima_news_archive|ZnT news archive]].

== Translation ==

=== Translators Needed ===

'''Baka-Tsuki is desperately looking for translators for this series.''' If you would like to help translate this series, please post in the forums [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=25&t=714&start=135 here], and we will help you get started. Thank you.

=== [[Zero no Tsukaima Registration|Registration]] ===
Translators are requested to mark all the chapters they are translating on the [[Zero no Tsukaima Registration|Registration Page]] according to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Guideline#Translation_Management|Translation Management]] section of ''Zero no Tsukaima'' [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Guideline|Project Specific Guidelines]].
=== Format Standards ===
Every chapter (after editing) must conform to the agreed points highlighted in [[Format_guideline|Format/Style Guideline]].

Some of these chapters are translations of the '''Chinese edition''' of the novels, which are known to have some minor mistakes compared to the original Japanese text. If you have access to the originals and you spot an error, '''please feel free to make the corrections yourself''' - this is a Wiki which means it's meant for anyone to fix things (and if you screw up, we can revert back your changes if all deem necessary). We can see the corrections you make, so just go ahead instead of hiding or waiting for permission.

[http://www.baka-tsuki.net/project/index.php?title=Zero_no_Tsukaima:guidelines Naming Conventions For ZnT]

=== Joint Collaboration ===
This Project was a [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=246 joint collaboration] with the following groups:
* [http://kh.beyondeternal.com/ Kawaii Heavens] (who also worked on the manga version of this series)
::*Volume 1 (all chapters)


*[http://www.k-neko.net/ Kuroneko]
::*Volume 1, Chapter 1
::*Volume 1, Chapter 2

== ''Zero no Tsukaima'' series by Noboru Yamaguchi ==
=== Volume 1 - Zero's Familiar / ゼロの使い魔 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume1_Insert_&_Back Cover|Insert & Back Cover]]
'''Kingdom of Magic'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - I'm a Familiar]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Louise the Zero]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Legend]]
'''Gandálfr'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - A Familiar's Day]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Kirche the Ardent]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Tristain's Arms Dealer]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Staff of Destruction]]

=== Volume 2 - Albion of the Wind / 風のアルビオン [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - A Secret Boat]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Her Majesty's Melancholy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - A Childhood Friend's Request]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Port City - La Rochelle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - A Rest Day Before Leaving]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The White Country]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - The Prince of a Dying Country]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - The Eve before the Final Battle in Newcastle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - The Final Battle]]

=== Volume 3 - The Founder's Prayer Book / 始祖の祈祷書 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter1_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 1 - Lineage of Zero]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Louise's Lovesickness]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - The Founder's Prayer Book]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Love Triangle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - The Arsenal and the Royal Family]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Treasure Hunting]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Dragon's Raiment]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - Colbert's Laboratory]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter9|Chapter 9 - Declaration of War]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter10|Chapter 10 - The Void]]

=== Volume 4 - The Water Spirit of Oath / 誓約の水精霊 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Prologue|Prologue]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The Saint]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Saito Goes Shopping in the Triumphant Town]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - The Sailor Outfit and Louise's Jealousy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter4_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 4 - Tabitha's Secret]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter5_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 5 - The Strength of a Love Potion]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - The Water Spirit]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - The Ring of Andvari]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - Reunion with Falsehood]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - Confrontation of Sadness]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Epilogue|Epilogue]]

=== Volume 5 - Tristania's Holiday / トリスタニアの休日 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The "Charming Fairies" Inn]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - The Encounter with the Flame and the Friendship with the Wind]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - Tristania's Holiday]]

=== Volume 6 - The Ruby of Atonement / 贖罪の炎赤石 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - Homecoming]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Cattleya]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Duke de La Vallière]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Commanding Officer Guiche and Officer Cadet Malicorne]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Flame of Twenty Years Ago]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - Sortie]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - The Illusion at Dartanes]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - The Atonement of Flame]]

=== Volume 7 - The Silver Pentecost / 銀の降臨祭 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The Temperature Difference between the Two]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Fairy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - The Shinto Priest of Romalia]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - The Secretary and the Emperor]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - The Ancient City of Saxe-Gotha]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - Truce]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - The Reason to Fight]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - King of Gallia]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - Rout]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter10|Chapter 10 - The Place of Courage]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Epilogue|Epilogue]]

=== Volume 8 - The Serenade of Nostalgia / 望郷の小夜曲 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter1_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 1 - Each End of the War]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Saito's Morning]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - The Golden Elf]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter4_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 4 - The Visit of the Shinto Priest]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter5_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 5 - The Disappearing Gandálfr]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - The Nations Conference]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - Louise's Decision]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - The Users of Void]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - Myoznitnirn]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter10_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 10 - Swordsman]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Epilogue_%7EPreview%7E| Epilogue]]

=== Volume 9 - The Ball of Twin Moons / 双月の舞踏会 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter1 ~Preview~|Chapter 1 - Louise's Fear]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter2 ~Preview~|Chapter 2 - The Elf of the Forest]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter3 ~Preview~|Chapter 3 - The Meeting and Parting of the Users]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter4 ~Preview~|Chapter 4 - The Chevalier Title]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Ondine ・ Knight Corps of the Water Spirit]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The Feelings of the Queen]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Solicitation]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Ball of Sleipnir]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume9 Chapter9|Chapter 9 - The Confrontation with the Mysterious Bird]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume9 Epilogue|Epilogue]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume9 Translator's Notes|Translator's Notes]]

=== Volume 10 - The Hero of Ivaldi / イーヴァルディの勇者 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The ''Ostland'']]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Chapter2|Chapter 2 - The Elf]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Anxiety and Jealousy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - The Queen and the Knights]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Siblings]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The Imprisoned Six]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Settlement of the Past]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Old Mansion of Orléans]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter9|Chapter 9 - Alhambra Castle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter10|Chapter 10 - The Hero of Ivaldi]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Epilogue|Epilogue]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Postscript|Postscript]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Translator's Notes|Translator's Notes]]

=== Volume 11 - A Duet of Recollection / 追憶の二重奏===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume11_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter1|Chapter 1 - Von Zerbst]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter2|Chapter 2 - The Queen and the Duke]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Karin the Heavy Wind]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter4|Chapter 4 - The Vallière Family]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter5|Chapter 5 - New School Term]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Private Lesson]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter7|Chapter 7 - The Pope of Romalia]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter8|Chapter 8 - Jörmungand]] (64%)
::*Chapter 9 - Reunion in Westwood
::*Chapter 10 - The Heart of the Duet
::*Epilogue

=== Volume 12 - The Fairies' Holiday / 妖精達の休日===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Prologue|Prologue]]
''' New Student from the White Country (Albion)'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*Chapter 3
::*Chapter 4
'''Knight Corps of the Undine, Charge!'''
::*Chapter 1
::*Chapter 2
'''Right to Use Saito for a Day'''
::*Chapter 1
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Section3_Chapter2|Chapter 2]] (1%)

=== Volume 13 - The World Door of the Holy Country / 聖国の世界扉===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Romalia
::*Chapter 2 - Saito's Decision
::*Chapter 3 - Aboard the ''Ostland''
::*Chapter 4 - The Two Knight Corps
::*Chapter 5 - The Persuasion of the Pope
::*Chapter 6 - Long Spear
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - World Door]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Meaning of the Smile]]
::*Epilogue

===Volume 14 - Aquileia's Saint / 水都市の聖女===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume14_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - The Flowerbed Squadron's Rebellion
::*Chapter 2 - The Third Annual Enthronement Ceremony
::*Chapter 3 - An Elven Gandalfr
::*Chapter 4 - The Capital of Water
::*Chapter 5 - Six Thousand Years Ago
::*Chapter 6 - Tiger Highway
::*Chapter 7 - Aquileia's Saint
::*Chapter 8 - The Steel Tiger
::*Chapter 9 - The Memory of the Bond
::*Epilogue

===Volume 15 - Labyrinth of Oblivion / 忘却の夢迷宮 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume15_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Carcassonne
::*Chapter 2 - The Knight Contest of the Sandbank
::*Chapter 3 - A Shaken Mind
::*Chapter 4 - The Jewel of Fire
::*Chapter 5 - Honeymoon
::*Chapter 6 - Tabitha's Long Night
::*Chapter 7 - Henrietta's Diplomatic Plan
::*Chapter 8 - Coronation
::*Chapter 9 - The Exit of the Labyrinth
::*Epilogue

===Volume 16 - The Tea Time of Des Ornières / ド・オルニエールの安穏 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume16_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - The Reward of the Campaign 
::*Chapter 2 - Searching for a Residence 
::*Chapter 3 - Henrietta's Melancholy, Louise's Anxiety, Saito's Promotion 
::*Chapter 4 - Mother and Cousin 
::*Chapter 5 - Saito Chevalier De Hiraga Des Ornières 
::*Chapter 6 - Daily Tea Time 
::*Chapter 7 - Eléonore's Academy 
::*Chapter 8 - The Basement of the Residence 
::*Chapter 9 - Secret Meeting 
::*Chapter 10 - 元素の兄弟
::*Epilogue

===Volume 17 - The Soeur of Dawn / 黎明の修道女 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume17_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Saito's despair 
::*Chapter 2 - Flight 
::*Chapter 3 - Meeting and Comrade 
::*Chapter 4 - Sulpice 
::*Chapter 5 - First meeting with Jack 
::*Chapter 6 - Damien and Lord Gondrin 
::*Chapter 7 - Soeur Louise 
::*Chapter 8 - Josette's Resolution 
::*Chapter 9 - Two Canes, One Crown 
::*Chapter 10 - Garden Party to Celebrate the Enthronement 
::*Chapter 11 - Bonds 
::*Epilogue

===Volume 18 - Spirit Stone of Destruction / 滅亡の精霊石 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume18_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Lovers 
::*Chapter 2 - Fouquet and Wardes 
::*Chapter 3 - Josette's Garden Party 
::*Chapter 4 - Strategy 
::*Chapter 5 - Confession of the Pope 
::*Chapter 6 - Spirit Stone of Destruction 
::*Chapter 7 - Our Home 
::*Chapter 8 - Elf of the Sahara 
::*Chapter 9 - Chance meeting 
::*Epilogue

=== Side Story Volume 1 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume1_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume1_Story1|Story 1 - Tabitha and the Pterosaur (0.5%)]]
::*Story 2 - Tabitha and the Vampire
::*Story 3 - Tabitha and the Assassin
::*Story 4 - Tabitha and the Magic Doll

=== Side Story Volume 2 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険2===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume2_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume2_Story5|Story 5 - Tabitha and the Gambler]]
::*Story 6 - Tabitha and the Minotaur
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume2_ExtraChapter|Extra Chapter - A Day in the Life of Sylphid]]
::*Story 7 - Tabitha and the Bird of Paradise
::*Story 8 - Tabitha and the Naval Port

=== Side Story Volume 3 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険3===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume3_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Story 9 - Tabitha and Sylphid
::*Story 10 - Tabitha and the old Warrior
::*Story 11 - Tabitha and first Love
::*Story 12 - Tabitha's Birth

== Project Staff ==
*Project Administrator: [[user:Onizuka-gto|Onizuka-gto]]
*Project Supervisor: [[user:Vaelis|Vaelis]]

=== Translators ===
'''ACTIVE'''
::*[[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]]
::*[[user:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]]

'''INACTIVE'''
::*[[user:ArchmageXin|ArchmageXin]]
::*[[user:Momogan|Momogan]]
::*[[user:SeiryuuChan|SeiryuuChan]]
::*[[user:Serenade_beta|Serenade beta]]
::*[[user:ShApEsHiFt3r|ShApEsHiFt3r ]]
::*[[user:Trewth|Trewth ]]
::*[[user:Xorius|Xorius]]

'''A.W.O.L'''
::*[[user:christof|christof]]
::*[[user:Claies|Claies]]
::*[[user:Vertiful|Vertiful]]

'''M.I.A'''
::*[[user:Cala-kun|Cala-kun]]
'''K.I.A'''
::*[[user:naturesbless|naturesbless]]
::*[[user:Nidema|Nidema]]
::*[[user:SaiyaJedi|SaiyaJedi]] <- aka "SaitoFromEarth"
::*[[user:Sushi-Y|Sushi-Y]]

=== Editors ===
This is the Project Editorial Team.
They will regularly patrol the projects to prevent vandalism & make sure the guidelines are implemented. If you have any inquiries about certain edits please contact any one of the members.

'''ACTIVE'''
::*[[user:Onizuka-gto|Onizuka-gto]]
::*[[user:DeotoxSlayer|DeotoxSlayer]]
::*[[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]]
::*[[user:Akirasav|Akira]]
::*[[user:BakaSama|BakaSama]]
'''A.W.O.L'''
::*[[user:Bicube|Bicube]]
::*[[user:BaKaFiSh|BaKaFiSh]]
::*[[user:Rednal|Rednal]]
::*[[user:Se-chan|Se-Chan]]
::*[[user:The naming game|The naming game]]
::*[[user:Darkoneko|Darkoneko]]
'''M.I.A'''
::*[[user:Nandeyanen|Nandeyanen]]
'''K.I.A'''
::*[[user:Da~Mike|Da~Mike]]
::*[[user:BlckKnght|BlckKnght]]
::*[[user:Crowkenobi|Crowkenobi]]
::*[[user:Andiyar|Andiyar]]

== Series Overview ==
* Volume 1 - ''Zero's Familiar'' (June 25, 2004)
* Volume 2 - ''Albion of the Wind'' (September 25, 2004)
* Volume 3 - ''The Founder's Prayer Book'' (December 25, 2004)
* Volume 4 - ''The Water Spirit of Oath'' (March 25, 2005)
* Volume 5 - ''Tristania's Holiday'' (July 25, 2005)
* Volume 6 - ''The Ruby of Atonement'' (November 25, 2005)
* Volume 7 - ''The Silver Pentecost'' (February 25, 2006)
* Volume 8 - ''The Serenade of Nostalgia'' (June 25, 2006)
* Volume 9 - ''The Ball of Twin Moons'' (September 25, 2006)
* Volume 10 - ''The Hero of Ivaldi'' (December 25, 2006)
* Volume 11 - ''A Duet of Recollection'' (May 25, 2007)
* Volume 12 - ''The Fairies' Holiday'' (August 25, 2007)
* Volume 13 - ''The World Door of the Holy Country'' (December 25, 2007)
* Volume 14 - ''Aquileia's Saint'' (May 25, 2008)
* Volume 15 - ''Labyrinth of Oblivion'' (September 25, 2008)
* Volume 16 - ''The Tea Time of Des Ornières'' (February 25, 2009)
* Volume 17 - ''The Soeur of Dawn'' (June 25, 2009)

* Side Story Volume 1 - ''Tabitha's Adventure'' (October 25, 2006)
* Side Story Volume 2 - ''Tabitha's Adventure'' (October 25, 2007)
* Side Story Volume 3 - ''Tabitha's Adventure'' (March 25, 2009)

[[Zero no Tsukaima:Series Overview|ISBN information]]

Zero no Tsukaima:Side Story Volume1 Story1

2010-02-27T15:03:26Z

RonnieCorny: just a quick 1st paragraph

Zero no Tsukaima

2010-02-27T14:57:32Z

RonnieCorny: /* Side Story Volume 1 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険 */

[[Image:Znt novel cover.jpg|300px|thumb|Vol.One Cover]]

The ''Zero no Tsukaima'' series is also available in the following languages:
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%28version_fran%C3%A7aise%29|Français (French)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_Deutsche Version|Deutsch (German)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%7E_Indonesian_Version|Bahasa Indonesia (Indonesian)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%7EItalian_Version%7E|Italiano (Italian)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_Korean_Version|한국어 (Korean)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_wersja_polska|Polski (Polish)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_~Russian_Version~|Русский (Russian)]]
*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima_%7EVersi%C3%B3n_Espa%C3%B1ola%7E|Español (Spanish)]]
*[http://vnsharing.net/forum/showthread.php?t=73861 Việt Nam (Vietnamese)]

(Note: Translation progress varies for each version.)
----
Visit the [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/index.php Baka-Tsuki Project Forum] to discuss this series and other information from Baka-Tsuki.

== Updates == 

*September 10, 2009:
:* [[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Full Text|Volume 10 full-text version]] is up.

Older updates can be found on the [[Zero_no_Tsukaima_news_archive|ZnT news archive]].

== Translation ==

=== Translators Needed ===

'''Baka-Tsuki is desperately looking for translators for this series.''' If you would like to help translate this series, please post in the forums [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/forums/viewtopic.php?f=25&t=714&start=135 here], and we will help you get started. Thank you.

=== [[Zero no Tsukaima Registration|Registration]] ===
Translators are requested to mark all the chapters they are translating on the [[Zero no Tsukaima Registration|Registration Page]] according to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Guideline#Translation_Management|Translation Management]] section of ''Zero no Tsukaima'' [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Guideline|Project Specific Guidelines]].
=== Format Standards ===
Every chapter (after editing) must conform to the agreed points highlighted in [[Format_guideline|Format/Style Guideline]].

Some of these chapters are translations of the '''Chinese edition''' of the novels, which are known to have some minor mistakes compared to the original Japanese text. If you have access to the originals and you spot an error, '''please feel free to make the corrections yourself''' - this is a Wiki which means it's meant for anyone to fix things (and if you screw up, we can revert back your changes if all deem necessary). We can see the corrections you make, so just go ahead instead of hiding or waiting for permission.

[http://www.baka-tsuki.net/project/index.php?title=Zero_no_Tsukaima:guidelines Naming Conventions For ZnT]

=== Joint Collaboration ===
This Project was a [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=246 joint collaboration] with the following groups:
* [http://kh.beyondeternal.com/ Kawaii Heavens] (who also worked on the manga version of this series)
::*Volume 1 (all chapters)


*[http://www.k-neko.net/ Kuroneko]
::*Volume 1, Chapter 1
::*Volume 1, Chapter 2

== ''Zero no Tsukaima'' series by Noboru Yamaguchi ==
=== Volume 1 - Zero's Familiar / ゼロの使い魔 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume1_Insert_&_Back Cover|Insert & Back Cover]]
'''Kingdom of Magic'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - I'm a Familiar]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Louise the Zero]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Legend]]
'''Gandálfr'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - A Familiar's Day]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Kirche the Ardent]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Tristain's Arms Dealer]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Staff of Destruction]]

=== Volume 2 - Albion of the Wind / 風のアルビオン [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - A Secret Boat]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Her Majesty's Melancholy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - A Childhood Friend's Request]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Port City - La Rochelle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - A Rest Day Before Leaving]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The White Country]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - The Prince of a Dying Country]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - The Eve before the Final Battle in Newcastle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - The Final Battle]]

=== Volume 3 - The Founder's Prayer Book / 始祖の祈祷書 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter1_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 1 - Lineage of Zero]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Louise's Lovesickness]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - The Founder's Prayer Book]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Love Triangle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - The Arsenal and the Royal Family]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Treasure Hunting]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Dragon's Raiment]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - Colbert's Laboratory]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter9|Chapter 9 - Declaration of War]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter10|Chapter 10 - The Void]]

=== Volume 4 - The Water Spirit of Oath / 誓約の水精霊 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Prologue|Prologue]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The Saint]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Saito Goes Shopping in the Triumphant Town]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - The Sailor Outfit and Louise's Jealousy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter4_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 4 - Tabitha's Secret]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter5_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 5 - The Strength of a Love Potion]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - The Water Spirit]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - The Ring of Andvari]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - Reunion with Falsehood]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - Confrontation of Sadness]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume4_Epilogue|Epilogue]]

=== Volume 5 - Tristania's Holiday / トリスタニアの休日 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The "Charming Fairies" Inn]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - The Encounter with the Flame and the Friendship with the Wind]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume5_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - Tristania's Holiday]]

=== Volume 6 - The Ruby of Atonement / 贖罪の炎赤石 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - Homecoming]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Cattleya]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Duke de La Vallière]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Commanding Officer Guiche and Officer Cadet Malicorne]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Flame of Twenty Years Ago]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - Sortie]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - The Illusion at Dartanes]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume6_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - The Atonement of Flame]]

=== Volume 7 - The Silver Pentecost / 銀の降臨祭 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The Temperature Difference between the Two]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Fairy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - The Shinto Priest of Romalia]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - The Secretary and the Emperor]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - The Ancient City of Saxe-Gotha]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - Truce]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - The Reason to Fight]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - King of Gallia]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - Rout]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Chapter10|Chapter 10 - The Place of Courage]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume7_Epilogue|Epilogue]]

=== Volume 8 - The Serenade of Nostalgia / 望郷の小夜曲 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter1_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 1 - Each End of the War]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter2_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 2 - Saito's Morning]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter3_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 3 - The Golden Elf]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter4_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 4 - The Visit of the Shinto Priest]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter5_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 5 - The Disappearing Gandálfr]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter6_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 6 - The Nations Conference]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 7 - Louise's Decision]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 8 - The Users of Void]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter9_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 9 - Myoznitnirn]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Chapter10_%7EPreview%7E|Chapter 10 - Swordsman]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume8_Epilogue_%7EPreview%7E| Epilogue]]

=== Volume 9 - The Ball of Twin Moons / 双月の舞踏会 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter1 ~Preview~|Chapter 1 - Louise's Fear]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter2 ~Preview~|Chapter 2 - The Elf of the Forest]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter3 ~Preview~|Chapter 3 - The Meeting and Parting of the Users]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter4 ~Preview~|Chapter 4 - The Chevalier Title]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Ondine ・ Knight Corps of the Water Spirit]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The Feelings of the Queen]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Solicitation]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume9_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Ball of Sleipnir]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume9 Chapter9|Chapter 9 - The Confrontation with the Mysterious Bird]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume9 Epilogue|Epilogue]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume9 Translator's Notes|Translator's Notes]]

=== Volume 10 - The Hero of Ivaldi / イーヴァルディの勇者 [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Full_Text|(Full Text)]]===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Chapter1|Chapter 1 - The ''Ostland'']]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Chapter2|Chapter 2 - The Elf]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Anxiety and Jealousy]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - The Queen and the Knights]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Siblings]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The Imprisoned Six]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Settlement of the Past]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Old Mansion of Orléans]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter9|Chapter 9 - Alhambra Castle]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Chapter10|Chapter 10 - The Hero of Ivaldi]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Epilogue|Epilogue]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Postscript|Postscript]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume10 Translator's Notes|Translator's Notes]]

=== Volume 11 - A Duet of Recollection / 追憶の二重奏===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume11_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter1|Chapter 1 - Von Zerbst]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter2|Chapter 2 - The Queen and the Duke]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Karin the Heavy Wind]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter4|Chapter 4 - The Vallière Family]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter5|Chapter 5 - New School Term]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Private Lesson]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter7|Chapter 7 - The Pope of Romalia]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter8|Chapter 8 - Jörmungand]] (64%)
::*Chapter 9 - Reunion in Westwood
::*Chapter 10 - The Heart of the Duet
::*Epilogue

=== Volume 12 - The Fairies' Holiday / 妖精達の休日===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Prologue|Prologue]]
''' New Student from the White Country (Albion)'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*Chapter 3
::*Chapter 4
'''Knight Corps of the Undine, Charge!'''
::*Chapter 1
::*Chapter 2
'''Right to Use Saito for a Day'''
::*Chapter 1
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume12_Section3_Chapter2|Chapter 2]] (1%)

=== Volume 13 - The World Door of the Holy Country / 聖国の世界扉===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Romalia
::*Chapter 2 - Saito's Decision
::*Chapter 3 - Aboard the ''Ostland''
::*Chapter 4 - The Two Knight Corps
::*Chapter 5 - The Persuasion of the Pope
::*Chapter 6 - Long Spear
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - World Door]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Meaning of the Smile]]
::*Epilogue

===Volume 14 - Aquileia's Saint / 水都市の聖女===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume14_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - The Flowerbed Squadron's Rebellion
::*Chapter 2 - The Third Annual Enthronement Ceremony
::*Chapter 3 - An Elven Gandalfr
::*Chapter 4 - The Capital of Water
::*Chapter 5 - Six Thousand Years Ago
::*Chapter 6 - Tiger Highway
::*Chapter 7 - Aquileia's Saint
::*Chapter 8 - The Steel Tiger
::*Chapter 9 - The Memory of the Bond
::*Epilogue

===Volume 15 - Labyrinth of Oblivion / 忘却の夢迷宮 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume15_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Carcassonne
::*Chapter 2 - The Knight Contest of the Sandbank
::*Chapter 3 - A Shaken Mind
::*Chapter 4 - The Jewel of Fire
::*Chapter 5 - Honeymoon
::*Chapter 6 - Tabitha's Long Night
::*Chapter 7 - Henrietta's Diplomatic Plan
::*Chapter 8 - Coronation
::*Chapter 9 - The Exit of the Labyrinth
::*Epilogue

===Volume 16 - The Tea Time of Des Ornières / ド・オルニエールの安穏 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume16_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - The Reward of the Campaign 
::*Chapter 2 - Searching for a Residence 
::*Chapter 3 - Henrietta's Melancholy, Louise's Anxiety, Saito's Promotion 
::*Chapter 4 - Mother and Cousin 
::*Chapter 5 - Saito Chevalier De Hiraga Des Ornières 
::*Chapter 6 - Daily Tea Time 
::*Chapter 7 - Eléonore's Academy 
::*Chapter 8 - The Basement of the Residence 
::*Chapter 9 - Secret Meeting 
::*Chapter 10 - 元素の兄弟
::*Epilogue

===Volume 17 - The Soeur of Dawn / 黎明の修道女 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume17_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Saito's despair 
::*Chapter 2 - Flight 
::*Chapter 3 - Meeting and Comrade 
::*Chapter 4 - Sulpice 
::*Chapter 5 - First meeting with Jack 
::*Chapter 6 - Damien and Lord Gondrin 
::*Chapter 7 - Soeur Louise 
::*Chapter 8 - Josette's Resolution 
::*Chapter 9 - Two Canes, One Crown 
::*Chapter 10 - Garden Party to Celebrate the Enthronement 
::*Chapter 11 - Bonds 
::*Epilogue

===Volume 18 - Spirit Stone of Destruction / 滅亡の精霊石 ===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume18_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Chapter 1 - Lovers 
::*Chapter 2 - Fouquet and Wardes 
::*Chapter 3 - Josette's Garden Party 
::*Chapter 4 - Strategy 
::*Chapter 5 - Confession of the Pope 
::*Chapter 6 - Spirit Stone of Destruction 
::*Chapter 7 - Our Home 
::*Chapter 8 - Elf of the Sahara 
::*Chapter 9 - Chance meeting 
::*Epilogue

=== Side Story Volume 1 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume1_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume1_Story1|Story 1 - Tabitha and the Pterosaur]]
::*Story 2 - Tabitha and the Vampire
::*Story 3 - Tabitha and the Assassin
::*Story 4 - Tabitha and the Magic Doll

=== Side Story Volume 2 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険2===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume2_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume2_Story5|Story 5 - Tabitha and the Gambler]]
::*Story 6 - Tabitha and the Minotaur
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume2_ExtraChapter|Extra Chapter - A Day in the Life of Sylphid]]
::*Story 7 - Tabitha and the Bird of Paradise
::*Story 8 - Tabitha and the Naval Port

=== Side Story Volume 3 - Tabitha's Adventure / タバサの冒険3===
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Side_Story_Volume3_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Story 9 - Tabitha and Sylphid
::*Story 10 - Tabitha and the old Warrior
::*Story 11 - Tabitha and first Love
::*Story 12 - Tabitha's Birth

== Project Staff ==
*Project Administrator: [[user:Onizuka-gto|Onizuka-gto]]
*Project Supervisor: [[user:Vaelis|Vaelis]]

=== Translators ===
'''ACTIVE'''
::*[[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]]
::*[[user:Zyzzyva165|Zyzzyva165]]

'''INACTIVE'''
::*[[user:ArchmageXin|ArchmageXin]]
::*[[user:Momogan|Momogan]]
::*[[user:SeiryuuChan|SeiryuuChan]]
::*[[user:Serenade_beta|Serenade beta]]
::*[[user:ShApEsHiFt3r|ShApEsHiFt3r ]]
::*[[user:Trewth|Trewth ]]
::*[[user:Xorius|Xorius]]

'''A.W.O.L'''
::*[[user:christof|christof]]
::*[[user:Claies|Claies]]
::*[[user:Vertiful|Vertiful]]

'''M.I.A'''
::*[[user:Cala-kun|Cala-kun]]
'''K.I.A'''
::*[[user:naturesbless|naturesbless]]
::*[[user:Nidema|Nidema]]
::*[[user:SaiyaJedi|SaiyaJedi]] <- aka "SaitoFromEarth"
::*[[user:Sushi-Y|Sushi-Y]]

=== Editors ===
This is the Project Editorial Team.
They will regularly patrol the projects to prevent vandalism & make sure the guidelines are implemented. If you have any inquiries about certain edits please contact any one of the members.

'''ACTIVE'''
::*[[user:Onizuka-gto|Onizuka-gto]]
::*[[user:DeotoxSlayer|DeotoxSlayer]]
::*[[user:Darknemo2000|Darknemo2000]]
::*[[user:Akirasav|Akira]]
::*[[user:BakaSama|BakaSama]]
'''A.W.O.L'''
::*[[user:Bicube|Bicube]]
::*[[user:BaKaFiSh|BaKaFiSh]]
::*[[user:Rednal|Rednal]]
::*[[user:Se-chan|Se-Chan]]
::*[[user:The naming game|The naming game]]
::*[[user:Darkoneko|Darkoneko]]
'''M.I.A'''
::*[[user:Nandeyanen|Nandeyanen]]
'''K.I.A'''
::*[[user:Da~Mike|Da~Mike]]
::*[[user:BlckKnght|BlckKnght]]
::*[[user:Crowkenobi|Crowkenobi]]
::*[[user:Andiyar|Andiyar]]

== Series Overview ==
* Volume 1 - ''Zero's Familiar'' (June 25, 2004)
* Volume 2 - ''Albion of the Wind'' (September 25, 2004)
* Volume 3 - ''The Founder's Prayer Book'' (December 25, 2004)
* Volume 4 - ''The Water Spirit of Oath'' (March 25, 2005)
* Volume 5 - ''Tristania's Holiday'' (July 25, 2005)
* Volume 6 - ''The Ruby of Atonement'' (November 25, 2005)
* Volume 7 - ''The Silver Pentecost'' (February 25, 2006)
* Volume 8 - ''The Serenade of Nostalgia'' (June 25, 2006)
* Volume 9 - ''The Ball of Twin Moons'' (September 25, 2006)
* Volume 10 - ''The Hero of Ivaldi'' (December 25, 2006)
* Volume 11 - ''A Duet of Recollection'' (May 25, 2007)
* Volume 12 - ''The Fairies' Holiday'' (August 25, 2007)
* Volume 13 - ''The World Door of the Holy Country'' (December 25, 2007)
* Volume 14 - ''Aquileia's Saint'' (May 25, 2008)
* Volume 15 - ''Labyrinth of Oblivion'' (September 25, 2008)
* Volume 16 - ''The Tea Time of Des Ornières'' (February 25, 2009)
* Volume 17 - ''The Soeur of Dawn'' (June 25, 2009)

* Side Story Volume 1 - ''Tabitha's Adventure'' (October 25, 2006)
* Side Story Volume 2 - ''Tabitha's Adventure'' (October 25, 2007)
* Side Story Volume 3 - ''Tabitha's Adventure'' (March 25, 2009)

[[Zero no Tsukaima:Series Overview|ISBN information]]

Talk:Toradora!:Volume10 Prologue

2010-02-27T07:26:25Z

RonnieCorny: New page: in the first para, shouldn't it be "mother hasn't" rather than "mother isn't"? since the original text says "okaasan mada"

in the first para, shouldn't it be "mother hasn't" rather than "mother isn't"? since the original text says "okaasan mada"

Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter7

2010-02-21T15:22:23Z

RonnieCorny: last Aegis for now

{{Template:PREVIEW}}

===Chapter Seven: The Pope Of Romalia ===

Seeing the guest who came to the royal reception room, Henrietta could only stare in blank surprise.

The dark purple priest robes and a high cylindrical hat symbolized the highest authority among all Halkeginia’s priesthood… in other words – it was the Pope of Romalia.

Because he held a position higher than any king in Halkeginia, Henrietta invited him to take the most honorable seat.

However, this young man’s face did not bode well with the priest clothes he wore. The gentle eyes, the sculpturesque nose, the smile always present on his well-shaped lips. His beauty made everyone turn around. Even if one searches all theaters in Halkeginia, it would be difficult to find an actor as beautiful as him.

Henrietta had the impression that this smile of his was filled with god-like affection.

“Doing well, Henrietta-dono?”

Ashamed, Henrietta snapped out of her trance.

“I am sorry, Your Holiness. I was deeply moved by your holy power.”

His hair, like thin gold threads, shivered as the Pope of Romalia laughed.

“Call me Vittorio, I don’t like such formal manners. Treat me like a regular priest of the country.”

“That is gracious of you. I am very sorry I could not attend the enthronement ceremony.”

Vittorio Serevare St. Aegis the 32nd was enthroned three years ago. Though it was a custom for each of Halkeginia’s royal families to attend it, Henrietta had caught a cold and was not able to be there.

St. Aegis the 32nd… the one who succeeded the name of ‘Founder's Shield’, the thirty-second Pope. A very young person who just passed twenty years of age, and though Henrietta had heard rumors that he was a very handsome person, she didn’t think it would be to that degree.

“I don't care. Enthronement is just a ceremony. You still follow God and are the Founder's pious servant. And that is enough for me.”

It is said that despite his young age, Aegis the 32nd received ardent support from Romalian citizens. The reason for that there was a special liberal feeling that surrounded him. To a degree, Henrietta could relate to that, as she could not feel anything haughty in this young Pope either.

However… though nice, it was a really unexpected visit.

St. Aegis the 32nd announced his visit to Tristain just two days ago. The palace went in an uproar preparing for the sudden guest. After all, the Pope’s visits were very rare.

The last time the Pope came as guest was for the coronation of the King, her father.

So the reason for such a sudden visit of St. Aegis the 32nd was a mystery.

During the rushed dinner between the Queen and the Prime Minister Mazarin, Henrietta discussed the problems regarding the reception.

“However, as expected from the rumored Halkeginia’s Flower, Henrietta-dono is really beautiful. I am extremely honored to meet you. If I were not the priest, I would ask you to dance.”

“Can I ask something?”

“What?”

“Can I learn the reason for such unexpected visit?”

Surely, he did not come here just to have idle chat.

St. Aegis the 32nd gave a deep sigh.

“Henrietta-dono, what do you think about the prior campaign?”

The war in Albion. The league of nobles who introduced themselves as Reconquista, the destruction of Albion’s royal family, the war started by the union of all nobles who did not rely on monarchic government and sought the Holy Land…

The war between Reconquista and the united Tristain-Germania army, the sudden intervention of Gallia, which ended in the victory of Allied forces…

The war that took away Henrietta’s beloved.

She did not want to recall that difficult war.

Henrietta lowered her head in sadness.

“It was a sad war.”

“…”

“I would not want to repeat such a war for the second time, I think.”

St. Aegis the 32nd nodded approvingly.

“Seems like Henrietta–dono is my friend.”

“What do you mean?”

“It means that I agree. I too was grieved at heart by such war. I was determined to let the militia participate as well, as soon as possible, because I wanted this useless war to be over with.”

Useless war… at such words, Henrietta's heart reacted strongly.

“Is it because it was not profitable?”

St. Aegis the 32nd gave a big nod.

“It is as Henrietta-dono says. Such conflict has no benefit. I am always troubled because of this. We are all Founder Brimir's pious servants, so why should we fight against each other?”

Henrietta answered in a constrained voice.

“Though I am immature as a politician… I think that as long as people have desires, wars will never be over.”

“Founder Brimir also acknowledged the existence of desire. When desire captivates a person, he is likely to stray away from the path of righteousness. That’s why self-control is beautiful. We, priests, vow celibacy and once a week devote ourselves to vegetarian ration in order to not forget self-control.”

“If all people could control themselves like his Holiness, there would be no wars in the world.”

“It is so, there would be none. However, I am a realist. Asking Halkeginia’s people to have as strong belief as Romanians would be a foolish demand to make, we know that well.”

“It is as his Holiness said – true faith sank to the ground because of the nature of the world.”

For a moment, the Pope closed his eyes to her words… and then looked up.

“This country is a very beautiful one. The colors that decorate the kingdom in spring, rich forests, gorgeous rivers, suiting the name of the Water Country…. Romalia is poor in water. It makes one envious. And when such beautiful country is involved in a war, I take it as the blasphemy to God.”

“I think that it is my mission to defend the peace.”

Henrietta said. It was slightly disappointing that the Pope of Romalia really did come for a simple sightseeing and preaching about pacifism.

Taking a look at the clock on the wall, Henrietta tried to stand up.

“Well then, the room and the servants are prepared. Please stay here as long as you wish. In case you’ll want to explore the place, we’ll give you our guards.”

However, St. Aegis 32nd didn’t stand up.

“Your Holiness?”

“I came today to help Henrietta-dono accomplish her mission.”

Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter7

2010-02-21T15:20:54Z

RonnieCorny: more Aegis

{{Template:PREVIEW}}

===Chapter Seven: The Pope Of Romalia ===

Seeing the guest who came to the royal reception room, Henrietta could only stare in blank surprise.

The dark purple priest robes and a high cylindrical hat symbolized the highest authority among all Halkeginia’s priesthood… in other words – it was the Pope of Romalia.

Because he held a position higher than any king in Halkeginia, Henrietta invited him to take the most honorable seat.

However, this young man’s face did not bode well with the priest clothes he wore. The gentle eyes, the sculpturesque nose, the smile always present on his well-shaped lips. His beauty made everyone turn around. Even if one searches all theaters in Halkeginia, it would be difficult to find an actor as beautiful as him.

Henrietta had the impression that this smile of his was filled with god-like affection.

“Doing well, Henrietta-dono?”

Ashamed, Henrietta snapped out of her trance.

“I am sorry, Your Holiness. I was deeply moved by your holy power.”

His hair, like thin gold threads, shivered as the Pope of Romalia laughed.

“Call me Vittorio, I don’t like such formal manners. Treat me like a regular priest of the country.”

“That is gracious of you. I am very sorry I could not attend the enthronement ceremony.”

Vittorio Serevare St. Aegis the 32nd was enthroned three years ago. Though it was a custom for each of Halkeginia’s royal families to attend it, Henrietta had caught a cold and was not able to be there.

St. Aegis the 32nd… the one who succeeded the name of ‘Founder's Shield’, the thirty-second Pope. A very young person who just passed twenty years of age, and though Henrietta had heard rumors that he was a very handsome person, she didn’t think it would be to that degree.

“I don't care. Enthronement is just a ceremony. You still follow God and are the Founder's pious servant. And that is enough for me.”

It is said that despite his young age, Aegis the 32nd received ardent support from Romalian citizens. The reason for that there was a special liberal feeling that surrounded him. To a degree, Henrietta could relate to that, as she could not feel anything haughty in this young Pope either.

However… though nice, it was a really unexpected visit.

St. Aegis the 32nd announced his visit to Tristain just two days ago. The palace went in an uproar preparing for the sudden guest. After all, the Pope’s visits were very rare.

The last time the Pope came as guest was for the coronation of the King, her father.

So the reason for such a sudden visit of St. Aegis the 32nd was a mystery.

During the rushed dinner between the Queen and the Prime Minister Mazarin, Henrietta discussed the problems regarding the reception.

“However, as expected from the rumored Halkeginia’s Flower, Henrietta-dono is really beautiful. I am extremely honored to meet you. If I were not the priest, I would ask you to dance.”

“Can I ask something?”

“What?”

“Can I learn the reason for such unexpected visit?”

Surely, he did not come here just to have idle chat.

St. Aegis the 32nd gave a deep sigh.

“Henrietta-dono, what do you think about the prior campaign?”

The war in Albion. The league of nobles who introduced themselves as Reconquista, the destruction of Albion’s royal family, the war started by the union of all nobles who did not rely on monarchic government and sought the Holy Land…

The war between Reconquista and the united Tristain-Germania army, the sudden intervention of Gallia, which ended in the victory of Allied forces…

The war that took away Henrietta’s beloved.

She did not want to recall that difficult war.

Henrietta lowered her head in sadness.

“It was a sad war.”

“…”

“I would not want to repeat such a war for the second time, I think.”

St. Aegis the 32nd nodded approvingly.

“Seems like Henrietta–dono is my friend.”

“What do you mean?”

“It means that I agree. I too was grieved at heart by such war. I was determined to let the militia participate as well, as soon as possible, because I wanted this useless war to be over with.”

Useless war… at such words, Henrietta's heart reacted strongly.

“Is it because it was not profitable?”

St. Aeges the 32nd gave a big nod.

“It is as Henrietta-dono says. Such conflict has no benefit. I am always troubled because of this. We are all Founder Brimir's pious servants, so why should we fight against each other?”

Henrietta answered in a constrained voice.

“Though I am immature as a politician… I think that as long as people have desires, wars will never be over.”

“Founder Brimir also acknowledged the existence of desire. When desire captivates a person, he is likely to stray away from the path of righteousness. That’s why self-control is beautiful. We, priests, vow celibacy and once a week devote ourselves to vegetarian ration in order to not forget self-control.”

“If all people could control themselves like his Holiness, there would be no wars in the world.”

“It is so, there would be none. However, I am a realist. Asking Halkeginia’s people to have as strong belief as Romanians would be a foolish demand to make, we know that well.”

“It is as his Holiness said – true faith sank to the ground because of the nature of the world.”

For a moment, the Pope closed his eyes to her words… and then looked up.

“This country is a very beautiful one. The colors that decorate the kingdom in spring, rich forests, gorgeous rivers, suiting the name of the Water Country…. Romalia is poor in water. It makes one envious. And when such beautiful country is involved in a war, I take it as the blasphemy to God.”

“I think that it is my mission to defend the peace.”

Henrietta said. It was slightly disappointing that the Pope of Romalia really did come for a simple sightseeing and preaching about pacifism.

Taking a look at the clock on the wall, Henrietta tried to stand up.

“Well then, the room and the servants are prepared. Please stay here as long as you wish. In case you’ll want to explore the place, we’ll give you our guards.”

However, St. Aegis 32nd didn’t stand up.

“Your Holiness?”

“I came today to help Henrietta-dono accomplish her mission.”

Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter7

2010-02-21T15:19:18Z

RonnieCorny: Aegis

{{Template:PREVIEW}}

===Chapter Seven: The Pope Of Romalia ===

Seeing the guest who came to the royal reception room, Henrietta could only stare in blank surprise.

The dark purple priest robes and a high cylindrical hat symbolized the highest authority among all Halkeginia’s priesthood… in other words – it was the Pope of Romalia.

Because he held a position higher than any king in Halkeginia, Henrietta invited him to take the most honorable seat.

However, this young man’s face did not bode well with the priest clothes he wore. The gentle eyes, the sculpturesque nose, the smile always present on his well-shaped lips. His beauty made everyone turn around. Even if one searches all theaters in Halkeginia, it would be difficult to find an actor as beautiful as him.

Henrietta had the impression that this smile of his was filled with god-like affection.

“Doing well, Henrietta-dono?”

Ashamed, Henrietta snapped out of her trance.

“I am sorry, Your Holiness. I was deeply moved by your holy power.”

His hair, like thin gold threads, shivered as the Pope of Romalia laughed.

“Call me Vittorio, I don’t like such formal manners. Treat me like a regular priest of the country.”

“That is gracious of you. I am very sorry I could not attend the enthronement ceremony.”

Vittorio Serevare St. Aegis the 32nd was enthroned three years ago. Though it was a custom for each of Halkeginia’s royal families to attend it, Henrietta had caught a cold and was not able to be there.

St. Aegis the 32nd… the one who succeeded the name of ‘Founder's Shield’, the thirty-second Pope. A very young person who just passed twenty years of age, and though Henrietta had heard rumors that he was a very handsome person, she didn’t think it would be to that degree.

“I don't care. Enthronement is just a ceremony. You still follow God and are the Founder's pious servant. And that is enough for me.”

It is said that despite his young age, Aeges the 32nd received ardent support from Romalian citizens. The reason for that there was a special liberal feeling that surrounded him. To a degree, Henrietta could relate to that, as she could not feel anything haughty in this young Pope either.

However… though nice, it was a really unexpected visit.

St. Aegis the 32nd announced his visit to Tristain just two days ago. The palace went in an uproar preparing for the sudden guest. After all, the Pope’s visits were very rare.

The last time the Pope came as guest was for the coronation of the King, her father.

So the reason for such a sudden visit of St. Aegis the 32nd was a mystery.

During the rushed dinner between the Queen and the Prime Minister Mazarin, Henrietta discussed the problems regarding the reception.

“However, as expected from the rumored Halkeginia’s Flower, Henrietta-dono is really beautiful. I am extremely honored to meet you. If I were not the priest, I would ask you to dance.”

“Can I ask something?”

“What?”

“Can I learn the reason for such unexpected visit?”

Surely, he did not come here just to have idle chat.

St. Aegis the 32nd gave a deep sigh.

“Henrietta-dono, what do you think about the prior campaign?”

The war in Albion. The league of nobles who introduced themselves as Reconquista, the destruction of Albion’s royal family, the war started by the union of all nobles who did not rely on monarchic government and sought the Holy Land…

The war between Reconquista and the united Tristain-Germania army, the sudden intervention of Gallia, which ended in the victory of Allied forces…

The war that took away Henrietta’s beloved.

She did not want to recall that difficult war.

Henrietta lowered her head in sadness.

“It was a sad war.”

“…”

“I would not want to repeat such a war for the second time, I think.”

St. Aegis the 32nd nodded approvingly.

“Seems like Henrietta–dono is my friend.”

“What do you mean?”

“It means that I agree. I too was grieved at heart by such war. I was determined to let the militia participate as well, as soon as possible, because I wanted this useless war to be over with.”

Useless war… at such words, Henrietta's heart reacted strongly.

“Is it because it was not profitable?”

St. Aeges the 32nd gave a big nod.

“It is as Henrietta-dono says. Such conflict has no benefit. I am always troubled because of this. We are all Founder Brimir's pious servants, so why should we fight against each other?”

Henrietta answered in a constrained voice.

“Though I am immature as a politician… I think that as long as people have desires, wars will never be over.”

“Founder Brimir also acknowledged the existence of desire. When desire captivates a person, he is likely to stray away from the path of righteousness. That’s why self-control is beautiful. We, priests, vow celibacy and once a week devote ourselves to vegetarian ration in order to not forget self-control.”

“If all people could control themselves like his Holiness, there would be no wars in the world.”

“It is so, there would be none. However, I am a realist. Asking Halkeginia’s people to have as strong belief as Romanians would be a foolish demand to make, we know that well.”

“It is as his Holiness said – true faith sank to the ground because of the nature of the world.”

For a moment, the Pope closed his eyes to her words… and then looked up.

“This country is a very beautiful one. The colors that decorate the kingdom in spring, rich forests, gorgeous rivers, suiting the name of the Water Country…. Romalia is poor in water. It makes one envious. And when such beautiful country is involved in a war, I take it as the blasphemy to God.”

“I think that it is my mission to defend the peace.”

Henrietta said. It was slightly disappointing that the Pope of Romalia really did come for a simple sightseeing and preaching about pacifism.

Taking a look at the clock on the wall, Henrietta tried to stand up.

“Well then, the room and the servants are prepared. Please stay here as long as you wish. In case you’ll want to explore the place, we’ll give you our guards.”

However, St. Aegis 32nd didn’t stand up.

“Your Holiness?”

“I came today to help Henrietta-dono accomplish her mission.”

Zero no Tsukaima:Volume12 Story1 Chapter2

2010-02-20T08:35:17Z

RonnieCorny:

'''Part 2'''

In the morning, female students were seen traveling from dormitories in a separate section of the Academy of Magic to the main section where the dining hall was.
Since the male dormitories were located in the main section, the guys gazed out at the arriving girls from the second floor balcony, while chattering about the breakfast menu.

Saito had his elbows propped up against the balcony. He, along with Guiche and Malicorne, were lazily gazing out at the girls as well.
Saito spotted Tiffania amongst the girls and waved out at her. Noticing his wave, she waved back.

Guiche asked Saito.

“Even with those magical weapons there, you certainly are good at keeping a straight face.”

“You’re the strange ones. Boobs, boobs, boobs… you’re turning into boob fiends.”

“Well, one look at those things would certainly turn anyone into one as well.”

Guiche looked at Saito with a worried face.

“What now?”

“You… Don’t tell me that Louise’s magic is having an effect on you? Perhaps, you can’t see anyone but Louise because you are her familiar. Is something like that the case?

Malicorne also gave off a look of concern.

“Yeah. I don’t know about Louise’s magic, but it’s strange. This time, Saito, you didn’t join us. And it was a really good chance to check whether they were real or not…”

Guiche and Malicorne looked at each other, nodding in agreement at the thought.

“Don’t say stupid things. Look, I’ll teach you guys one thing.”

Saito crossed his arms with a look of pride.

“Please do.”

“Umm, for instance, pretend that we were dogs.”

“I don’t want to be a dog.”

“I agree.”

“This is only an example. Look, if we were dogs, we would have a bone in our mouth. That bone in your mouth took a lot of effort to get. But then, you see a brand new bone. What would you do?”

Guiche immediately answered.

“I’d pick it up.”

“Idiot. What would you do with the bone you had been using up to this point? Throw it away?”

Guiche’s face lit up in realization.

“Basically, you want to say this? The bone I have used up until now is Montmorency. The new bone laying around is that strangely, large-chested Tiffania, Her Majesty the Queen, and Marianne from the first year Seger class, and another from that class with flowing locks of dazzling, marigold…”

“I don’t know how you have time to keep tabs on such things. Anyways, that’s what I mean. It’s impossible to keep both of the bones.”

Saito nodded his head in confirmation.

“Basically, you already have a bone in your mouth, is the idea?”

“Yep. The bone that I have now will get mad. That kind of attitude is what’s important now.”

“In other words, you…”

Guiche had a grin on his face as he poke Saito in the side.

“So you have properly caught that Louise in your mouth? You should tell us all the details of it.”

Saito shook his head “no,” but somehow he was still full of confidence.

“Not yet. But soon… it should only be a matter of time.”

“You’re really trying to tame that shrew of a girl, huh!”

“I’m seeing if acting a little cold at her will do anything…”

Saito stretched a hand up and looked up at the sky. He carried on.

“I-I, I’ve been unwillingly wagging my tail. Damn it, even now I keep going at it… Look..., I’m going to return all the humiliation I’ve tasted until now and then some…”

Saito looked up at the sky trembling with resolution as he clenched his fist.

There’s the reliable Saito that Guiche is used to.

“That’s the assistant commander for you. That’s right, we can’t let the girls make fools of us. It offends my pride.”

“Pride aside, I think that this level of punishment is not enough. I probably need to reexamine her attitude.”

“Hey, you.”

Guiche narrowed his eyes as he turned to Saito.

“Hmm?”

“I’ve been wondering about this for a while…”

“About what?”

Amidst all of this mindless chatter, a strangely serious tone appeared.

“What if you stayed here for the rest of your life?”

“Eh?”

Guiche hung his head down, looking a little embarrassed.

“How should I put it… I really don’t know much about this country. There’re some cute girls here, but I don’t know if I can get used to being a noble. If Louise were to throw me aside, I’d get some land for myself. With only one person, I should be able to fend for myself.”

Being asked that all of a sudden, Saito became a little timid. Because of this, Saito turned his head away.

“What kind of atmosphere is this, asking me such a thing?”

“Sh-Shut up! It’s fine, right!”

Guiche also turned away.

Saito looked up at the sky.

Living his life on this world, huh…

Maybe due to Louise’s magic, the ‘I want to do what I can for this world’ spell holding him had lifted and a pang of homesickness was felt.

After all, it’s still hard to cut ties with his family.

But hearing Guiche’s remark just now, what was this feeling budding in his heart?

It was a different feeling than just a longing for Louise.

He wasn’t just feeling timid about it. The feeling was strange, but somewhat good.

Looking at Saito, Malicorne softly mumbled.

“Hey, Assistant Commander.”

“Huh? What is it?”

Returning to normal, Saito looked towards Malicorne.

“What about the ones that don’t have a bone? What do they do?”

Malicorne calmly asked. Saito and Guiche exchanged looks. Then, the both of them gave off comforting smiles.

“Wh-What should be done indeed.”

“Tell me please.”

Malicorne asked with a smile that beamed with grace, like that of a clergyman. Guiche pretending to know, dodged his plea.

“Well, gentlemen! It’s about time for the ladies to take their seats, as breakfast should be brought out shortly! Let’s head back to the dining hall!”

“Indeed!”

Saito also dodged his plea.

“Oh Sun, tell me please.”

Ignoring the two that left for the dining hall, Malicorne had turned towards the sun and cried out.

After breakfast at the Academy of Magic, there was a thirty minute break before classes began.

During that break, among the first year Suen class, a golden haired fairy was leaning on her elbows, giving off a listless sigh.

It was Tiffania.

While she thought it would be good to see the outside world, it was somewhat exhausting.

Those words were silently muttered.

Today was not the only day that she was this worn out.

With Saito's and everyone else’s guidance, she had arrived in Tristain. The various things that needed to be done started off small, but quickly grew to take days. Since the first day of this, Tiffania has been deathly tired.

Arriving in Tristain, she was greeted by Cardinal Mazarin and former queen Marianne, but she was unable to meet her cousin, Her Majesty Queen Henrietta. Henrietta’s absence was due to a goodwill visit to Romalia.

The toughest thing to cope with was parting with the orphans that she had taken care of. A Tristanian monastery had decided to take them in, but both Tiffania and the children had cried when it came time to part. Thinking back to when Tiffania asked if they should return to the village, the children shook their head ‘no.’

“We’ll be fine. Don’t worry about us.”

Said Jim, the oldest of them, as he rubbed his eyes and smiled.

However, there was little time to feel sad at the parting, since Tiffania had to arrive in Tristain within that day. With Agnes, the Commander of the Musketeer Corps, escorting her, Tiffania had to go to the Academy of Magic.

The situation was explained to Old Osman, who arranged a room for Tiffania. After a day of rest, Tiffania was introduced to her classmates.

About ten days have passed since then.

Since everything Tiffania saw and heard were new to her, each day was like a year’s worth of experiences. The environment of Tristain’s Academy of Magic was vastly different than that of Westwood village. Instead of only children and little forest creatures in Westwood village, there were hundreds of nobles around her age here. This was enough to make Tiffania’s eyes spin.

Her troubles didn’t stop there.

Due to her passive nature, she was hoping for a peaceful school life. However, her appearance wouldn’t allow for such a thing wherever she went.

But the worst part was that she was not aware of the cause of her mental exhaustion, which was actually due to the effect that her appearance had on others. This unintentionally caused a lot of jealousy and grudges.

That listless, sighing Tiffania was approached by three guys.

It was the same guys that have hovered around her since her admittance. Of the three, a tall, freckled guy bowed in front of Tiffania.

“Miss Westwood.”

Tiffania had temporarily used the name of the village where she grew up as her surname.

Tiffania Westwood.

While it was a peculiar name, she had to use a name uncommon to nobility in order to not unearth the disgrace surrounding her existence. By using such an uncommon surname, her true identity of being from a distinguished family would be hidden.

Well then, the freckled boy began to pull Tiffania out of her daze.

“Lady from the White Country. Your skin is as white as the name of that country, while your eyes dazzle like a burning sun! Well then, would my lady care for a drink? If you need anything, this Charlot will be at your service.”

Immediately, the boy named Charlot was pushed away by someone.

“Nonono! Please allow me this duty!”

Although the duty was simply fetching a drink, something of little importance, these Tristain nobles fought over it like it was a big deal. The troubled Tiffania gave an awkward laugh while waving a hand. Since arriving at the Academy of Magic, this gesture was used most of the time to deal with these situations.

“Thank you, but I’m not thirsty.”

With pleading grins, the three momentarily shook their heads. Charlot and the rest knit their eyebrows and continued trying to get her to open up.

“Well, would you like to accompany me horseriding this afternoon?”

As one of them said this, another group of five appeared.

“If it’s a ride, I shall invite you too.”

“I as well.”

“No no. I was here first…”

“My horses come from Albion!”

“Please pick which kind of horse you like. If you like speed, there is the Mecklenburger breed. Albanian horses have high stamina. I, of course, own horses of both breeds.”

These eight guys worshipping Tiffania were clamorously arguing. The topic was of course who Tiffania should go with.

The troubled Tiffania covered her face with the brim of her hat.

“Umm. I can’t be in the sun much…, so I can’t really go on a ride.”

Using the excuse that hid her secret, Tiffania refused the offers. But she ended up digging herself into a bigger hole.

As if waiting for that reply, Charlot smiled widely.

“I thought so, but I have prepared just the hat for that problem. This white, feathered hat has a wide brim and is very fashionable in Tristania.”

He pulled out a large, white hat, composed of superb material. The brim was twice as wide as the brim on Tiffania’s hat.

“Please, try it on.”

Charlot reached for Tiffania’s hat. Tiffania quickly held onto her hat, shaking her head.

“It’s alright. Thank you.”

Holding onto her hat, she dashed towards the classroom. Charlot, being left behind, stood there dazed.

“Does she dislike my hat that much?”

The other guys began poking fun at Charlot.

“Hey Charlot! Because of you, the mood with our “Golden Fairy” has been wrecked!”

Among the girls nearby that overheard this clamor, one clicked her tongue in disgust.

She had long, golden hair in twin tails. While she was short, she wore an air of arrogance that beared down on those around her. Her strong-willed, blue eyes lit up with anger.

The girl turned towards the corridor where Tiffania had disappeared into and spat out venomously.

“That girl does not know how to attend to gentlemen. Well, since she seems to be from the countryside, it can’t be helped I guess.”

The girls around the golden haired, twin-tailed girl nodded in agreement.

“I agree! And on top of that, that girl still has not greeted her Highness Beatrice! That will not do even if she is a country bumpkin!”

The girl called Beatrice smiled with pride. It seems that the surrounding girls were her followers.

Beatrice had noble, cute features that drew other’s attention. Before Tiffania’s arrival, she was the most popular girl of the first years. However, Tiffania had easily ended her reign. Just the other day, the guys that were chasing after Tiffania now had worshipped Beatrice like a god.

“While she may be raised in the country, called her a ‘bumpkin’ seems rather rude.”

Beatrice said this with a belittling sneer.

“I apologize, your Highness!”

A brown-haired girl bowed repeatedly.

“It’s just that being born from the house of Duke Guldenhorf, I am strongly connected to the present queen of Tristania, Henrietta."

“That is so, your Highness! The royal blood originated from the aunt of King Phillip the third that ruled 2 generations ago, who married the brother of the previous head of the Guldenhorf family.”

“Blood of the Tristania royal family!”

One of the girls shouted, which prompted the rest to join in.

“Blood of the Tristania royal family!”

“On top of that, while the lands of the Guldenhorf family are small, they are respected as an independent country!”

In regard to Beatrice’s homeland at the time of this decision, the king announced the Guldenhorf lands as an independent country. Well, it was a so-called independent country, but in actuality, it still followed the military and foreign affairs of Tristania, just like every other region.

However, if you got past this fact, it was like any other independent country. Beatrice included, it was proper etiquette to use “your Highness” to refer to a member of her family.

“Basically, making light of me is the same as making light of the Tristania royal family. That girl was brought up in Albion, so it is understandable that she knows nothing of Halkeginia, but not showing proper manners is inexcusable.”

“It’s as you say, your Highness!”

“Well, we just have to teach that ‘islander’ proper manners.”

Beatrice smiled deviously.

Coming out of the classroom, Tiffania held her hat tightly with both hands as she scurried down the hallway. Leaving the main hall, she arrived at the courtyard.

Finding a remote area of Vestri Square, Tiffania let out a deep sigh and sat down on the edge of a fountain near the Flame Hall.

The outside world that she had wanted to see was a lot more noisy, rowdy, and fast-paced than she had ever imagined.

She looked up at the sky.

Only the blue sky was the same here as in Westwood village, thought Tiffania. While the village may have been a bit boring, the days were fun and peaceful…

Thinking back to those days suddenly brought tears to her eyes. Tiffania hid her face under the brim of her hat.

Were the children doing well? Were they feeling anxious and uneasy like her? Worry about her uncertain future, tears spilled from Tiffania’s eyes.

Crying with her head down for a while, suddenly a voice called out to her.

“Miss Westwood?”

Tiffania lifted her head up. Five girls from her class stood there looking down at her. Tiffania stood up in a panic.

“He-Hello.”

The brown-haired girl stretched out a hand to the golden, twin-tailed girl as if introducing her. She questioned Tiffania.

“Are you aware of who this person is?”

Uh, who was this?

She knew that this person was in the same class, but no name could be thought of.

“I-I’m sorry. I do not believe that I’ve learned your name.”

Reacting to Tiffania’s timid answer, the brown-haired girl opened her eyes wide in surprise.

“How can you possibly have not learned of the name of this person? Naturally, you should have already made your greetings upon arriving at the Academy.

“I’m really sorry, but I’m still not used to being here…”

In any case, the girl looked quite angry. Tiffania fumbled with her words.

“It’s fine.”

The twin-tailed girl ran her hand through the right lock. Her gesture gave off an air of satisfaction at cornering her prey.

The brown-haired girl continued the introduction.

“This esteemed person, is the great Beatrice Yvonne von Guldenhorf.

The brown-haired girl replied arrogantly as if inquiring her if she knew of Beatrice’s prestige. She gave off an air as if she herself was also the daughter of a Duke.

Having spent all her life in the forest, Tiffania was ignorant to worldly affairs. The name of the Guldenhorf family that carried across the nation wouldn’t be known to her.

Although she was angry, Beatrice forced a smile.

“Well, well. Nice to meet you, Guldenholf-san.”

There was a short pause.

Beatrice’s temple twitched. The brown-haired girl frantically shouted.

“Miss Westwood! You don’t know of the Guldenhorfs? The esteemed person standing here is none other than the daughter of Duke Guldenhorf, her Highness Beatrice!”

“O-Ok…”

Tiffania had an embarrassed look. Tiffania’s understanding of the world’s rules was near non-existant. In other words, the concept of royalty and the class system was foreign to her, similar to the outlook that Saito had upon arriving here.

Well, she understood the words “Duke” and “your Highness” and about how these positions related to the world. She also was aware that special treatment was given to them.

However, this understanding was skin deep since she had no actual experience. Basically, Tiffania had little understanding of the language that needed to be used in these situations.

Your Highness?

Suddenly presented with these high societal terms, Tiffania was confused.

Uh, this was a place where everyone equally sits in the same desks, was it not?

Why was there a need to use such titles?

Thinking about the question, she had only just arrived here. For now, Tiffania obediently bowed her head in order to not further anger the girl.

“I’m really sorry. I grew up in the forests of Albion, so I am ignorant of the ongoings of Halkeginia. I appear to have disrespected you, so I apologize, uh your Highness.”

“Is that how you offer your apologies to your Highness? Ugh, you really grew up without proper manners!”

“I can’t believe they allowed such a girl into a prestigous Tristanian academy! What would others think!”

“…I’m sorry. I’m really sorry.”

Tiffania bowed her head many times. However, the girls in her class would not settle for such a country bumpkin robbing all the hearts of the guys.

“Miss Westwood. How can I take your apology seriously when you leave your hat on?”

The brown-haired girl exclaimed with a chuckle.

“That’s right! It’s as Lisette says!”

Tiffania held onto her hat.

She couldn’t let them take it away because it would show her long ears. That would reveal the elfen blood that Tiffania had, which would cause a lot of trouble.

She would probably be chased out of this place.

No, it would not stop there. Tiffania was fully aware of how much the people of Halkeginia hated elves.

Tiffania’s face paled.

If her ears were seen… would her Void spell “Oblivion” be enough to erase their memory?

Was five people at once too many?

While the task was not impossible, this place wasn’t isolated like in the forest. It was at the Academy in broad daylight.

Anyone could possibly see the spell. If a classmate were to see such a suspicious spell, she would definitely be chased out.
Tiffania was in quite a pinch.

Her elfen blood needed to be kept a secret.

Yet, her Void magic could not be used.

If that was the case, there was no way she would take off the hat.

“That hat, take it off”

Tiffania shook her head.

“I’m sorry. I can’t take off this hat because…”

“Because you’ll get sunburnt, right?”

“Y-Yes. That’s right, so…”

Tiffania nodded a few times.

“We are not talking about being outside for the day. It’s just for a few seconds.”

Still, Tiffania continued to hold onto her hat, not moving an inch. Growing angry, Lisette, followed by Beatrice’s companions, reached out for Tiffania’s hat.

“Hey! Take it off now.”

“Pl-Please…let me go.”

Grabbing ahold of the brim of the hat, they got into a scuffle.

“Hey, what are you doing?”

A guy’s voice called out, which caused the girls to turn around. A black-haired guy with a shocked expression was standing there.

“Saito!”

Tiffania ran up to Saito as if he were Buddha rescuing her from Hell. Latching onto his arm, her face hung down in embarassment.

“Hey, what’s wrong? Were you being bullied?”

Tiffania didn’t reply.

Saito looked at the five girls that had surrounded Tiffania moments ago. Crossing their arms, they returned stern looks.

This is none of your business, right? Go away.

Feeling this kind of aura, Saito trembled.

Scary.

Saito was reminded of a particular group of high school girls that he saw back in Japan. The group was known for ganging up on other people and bullying them.

Tiffania was truly a very beautiful person, which infuriated other girls. Honestly, such trifling matters are the same even in Halkeginia.

Since this is like a fantasy world, it is even moreso likely to happened, but it seems to be that bullying has no connection to what world you are on.

Saito was troubled, but for now, he couldn’t overlook this.

Furthermore, the one being bullied was Tiffania, who they had brought here. It was their responsibility. If he did not do something now, eventually they would have to deal with it anyways.

“What are you girls doing to Tiffania? Don’t you think that what you are doing is dirty? As people…ah, or rather as nobles?

Saito was trying his best to maintain his dignity in front of the first year girls. Flipping her blue cloak back, the brown haired girl gave Saito a cold glare.

“You girls! You girls, you say! Did you all hear that?” [[Image:ZnT12-077.jpg|thumb]]

“We heard that! Using such crude words as ‘you girls’!”

The group of first year bullies looked at each other and shouted loudly. Saito’s head began to hurt.

“In any case, no bullying, ok?”

Lisette completely ignored Saito’s plea as she approached him.

“You! Do you know of this person?”

Lisette’s hand pointed towards the shortest girl in the group, a girl with blond twin tails and a look of arrogance.

“Nope. Not at all.”

Seeing Saito’s blank look, the girls immediately raised their voices in a chorus.

“Well! What a country bumpkin! She is her Highness, Beatrice Yvonne von Guldenhorf. She is upper nobility!”

Saito scratched his head with a troubled look.

“Well, even if she is upper nobility…”

The golden, twin-tailed girl called Beatrice examined Saito up and down. Then, she talked with a sneer.

“I’m not familiar with people around here, but are you a Halkeginian?”

Nope. He was an Earthling, but that couldn’t be said. Saito mumbled a response.

“No, I-I’m from Rub’ al Khali…”

In order to hide that Saito was from another world, he had been saying that he was born in Rub’ al Khali.

Beatrice narrowed her gaze at Saito. Then, she nodded in understanding.

“You are…Hirigaru Saiton of the Knight Corps of the Water Spirit, right?”

The first year girls looked back and forth at each other.

The fact that Saito’s name as a distinguished knight who had stopped an army of 70,000 was certainly known. Furthermore, he was the assistant commander of the Imperial Guards. The girls began looking at each other nervously.

It appeared that this group of girls that waved around authority was weak against higher authority. Saito threw out his chest, as he exclamed boastfully.

“Yeah, I’m the assistant commander of the Knight Corps of the Water Spirit, Chevalier Hiraga. Her Majesty’s Imperial Guards. Upper nobility, upper nobility in-deed.”

His act was like something out of a Japanese drama.

However, Beatrice was not intimidated.

“So, what of it? Imperial Guard or what not, I do not bow down to a mere knight.”

Saito’s face paled. This brat…isn’t scared of the Imperial Guards. Don’t tell me that she is someone important? Uh oh?

At that moment, a savior appeared.

“Oi, Saito! What the hell are you doing? Did you finish preparing the straw dummies for practice after classes?”

Nearby stood Guiche and Montmorency. Yes, the tide has turned! Without looking back, Saito yelled loudly to them.

“Hey Commander, good timing! I was scolding these first years a little. They are being a little cheeky here and there.”

“What is that! Outrageous!”

Enthusiastically, Guiche walked over.

Deep down, Saito shouted in triumph.

It’s too late even if you get scared and cry, Beatrice!

Afterall, Guiche’s father of the prestigious Gramont family was general of the army.

Futhermore, Montmorency apparently came from a time-honored lineage.

Well Miss Noble Girl, Duke or whatever, I’d like to see you bluff your way in front of nobles with ancient lineages. Saito proudly puffed his chest.

But…Beatrice’s face did not change when she saw Guiche and Montmorency approaching. Instead, Guiche’s face paled upon seeing Beatrice.

Beatrice casually lifted her chin up.

“It’s been a while. Guiche-dono.”

Dono?

“A-Ah…, well well, your Highness Guldenhorf…”

Your Highness?

“How is your father?”

“W-Well. Thanks to you…”

Honorifics?

The situation was strange. Cold sweat dripped down Saito’s forehead. Guiche’s spirit had taken a trip somewhere, replaced by a strangely submissive attitude. Montmorency was also fidgeting uncomfortably.

“Well well, Miss Montmorency is also here? I have started attending this academy this year. Please take care of me.”

With an attitude unimaginable of underclassmen, Beatrice addressed Guiche and Montmorency while they bowed their heads at her.

“Please take care of me as well. If you have any troubles, please let me know.”

“By the way, Guiche-dono.”

“Y-Yes!”

“I would like to congratulate you on your promotion to the commander of the Imperial Guards. However, could you please tend to the proper instruction of your subordinates? This discourteous knight is no different than a mercenary or thief.”

Beatrice inaudibly beckoned her followers to leave with her.

“Miss Westwood.”

As she was leaving, Beatrice addressed Tiffania, who had been ignored up to this point.

“Y-Yes!”

“Do you understand? At least when you are around me, you will take off that unsightly hat. Wearing that hat in my presence will be a serious insult to the Guldenhorf family. Oho-oho-ohoho!”

Laughly loudly, Beatrice left along with her followers.

As Guiche and Montmorency weakly waved goodbye, Saito bit his lip.

“Hey, Commander! Montmorency! What’s with that! Being looked down upon by underclassmen!”

“No, that girl is bad news.”

“Bad indeed.”

“Your families come from an ancient lineage of nobility, right?!”

“It’s just as you say, but the Gramont family has served the royal family for generations. Because of this connection, it is only natural that I set aside my dignity and be humble to the Duke’s family.”

“That is also the case with the Montmorency family.”

“Then why were you bowing so much?”

“Actually, the reason goes back to a long time ago.”

“Huh?”

“The Gramont family has been honored as military leaders of the nobility, but has been poor at managing territory.”

Saito had a bad feeling.

“Don’t tell me that your family borrowed money?”

Bingo. Guiche gazed out distantly.

Montmorency’s face also got red in embarassment.

“Our family is also in a similar situation.”

Guiche smacked his chin to collect himself.

“Duke Guldenhorf’s family has enough money to manage an entire country. You should also be on good terms with them.”

“Don’t be stupid! Like I can be on good terms with a girl like that!”

“Hey! Forget about that fuss with her! She has her own bodyguards that accompany her! If you get her angry, they will whisk you away!”

Her own bodyguards?

“What the hell is with that?”

“What, you didn’t know? Don’t be so indifferent to these things…”

Guiche drew Saito, Tiffania, and Montmorency’s attention to the main gate.

“Look over there.”

Saito scanned the area.

In front of the main gate of the Academy of Magic, a vast field of grass stretched out. Before anyone realized it, quite a few tents had been set up there!

On top of the tents were flags bearing yellow dragons as the coat of arms. Several armored wind dragons were hanging around the tents.

Guiche explained to Saito, whose jaw had dropped.

“Those are the bodyguards of the Guldenhorf family, the aerial armored brigade ‘Luftpanzer Ritter’.”

Saito vaguely recalled that name. Ah, hadn’t Kathy and the others gossiped about the same brigade at breakfast the other day.

Being the same time as all of the indecent flirting, Saito barely recalled that talk… Oh, it went something like this…

“During the last Albion war, Duke Guldenhorf didn’t allow them to join the alliance, because it was their prized brigade. With the destruction of the Albion dragon knights, they are now said to be the strongest dragon knights in Halkeginia."

Right now, 24 dragons could be seen. At Tarbes, Saito, having fought in Albion, was fairly familiar with the abilities of dragon knights. Just a small troup of them would be equivalent to thousands of ground units in battle ability.

“Ugh, why did she have to bring dragon knights to school?”

Saito’s statement dwelled on that point.

“The rich nobility probably like to show off.”

Guiche criticized, forgetting about his own nature.

Saito looked towards Tiffania.

Tiffania looked at Saito worriedly.

“Tiffa, don’t worry. Military brigade or whatever, I said that I would help you. Don’t let the hat ordeal shake you up.”

Tiffania bit her lip as she nodded.

“It’s alright. It would not be good to trouble you all…I appreciate the feeling, but I should take care of it myself.”

“Saito, it may be just as Miss Tiffania says. If we said anything about it, we may end up in a bad position, too.”

“Yeah.”

“Hey! These are the last words I would’ve expected to hear from heroes of the Gallia expedition. Compared to that time, the Duke’s daughter should be a cakewalk.”

“No, it’s not that simple.”

Guiche wrinkled up his forehead.

“During Tabatha’s rescue, we were under disguise when we entered Gallia, right? Actually at this academy, there is no one besides us that knows about that incident. Furthermore, Gallia did not give an official complaint, so her Majesty overlooked the incident.”

“At this academy, angering royalty of another country will certainly not be overlooked by her Majesty. You are part of her Imperial Guards, right? Angering the Duke’s daughter is unspeakable.”

Hearing this from the two of them, Saito was troubled.

At Saito’s present state, Tiffania gave a reassuring smile.

“Thank you, Saito. I’m happy for the thought.”

“…Tiffa.”

“It’s really alright. Wearing a hat during class is my fault. Afterall, it’s bad to lie about it.”

Drawing upon some determination, Tiffania nodded.

“I’m really sorry for worrying you.”

Tiffania pitter pattered away. Saito continued to stare at her golden hair as it trailed in the wind.

After classes and practice, arriving at Louise’s room, Saito consulted Louise about today’s events.

“It seems that Tiffania is somehow being bullied by her classmates.”

Louise sat on her bed listening to Saito.

“Leave it alone.”

She nodded.

“How cold! You can’t be saying that. She’s being bullied. That timid Tiffania is going to get bullied to death. Hey Louise, your family also has the Duke title, right? Say something to that spoiled brat, please.”

However, Louise did not budge on the issue.

“It’s not our problem to be dealt with. It’s her class’s problem. If third years stuck their head into this problem, it would unnecessarily put Tiffania in a worse position.”

Louise calmly replied, but Saito couldn’t accept it. He pressed on.

“While what you say may be correct…Tiffania doesn’t really have anyone to rely on here. At least, we should be there to help her…”

“That’s why I’m saying that it’s unnecessary.”

“Unnecessary! Of course! After all, we brought her here!”

The blood rushed to Saito’s head, as he raised his voice.

“You know, from now on that girl is a noble. And as a noble, she can’t live without being alone at times. Because of that, she needs to be independent. Becoming helpless at just a little bit of teasing, she won’t survive living in Halkeginia. She needs to pick up the pieces of herself afterwards. That’s what it means to be a noble.”

Louise said in a strict tone.

Looking at that face, Saito was reminded of what happened a year ago.

Louise was being made fun of by her class.

Saying things like ‘zero’ and ‘idiot’, Louise didn’t have a single friend.

Holding onto her pride as a noble, Louise faced up to the golem…

Comparing with Louise, Tiffania was now in a similar position. This was definitely not something to not take seriously.

“Also…that girl like me is also a bearer of the “Void.” She has to shoulder the destiny of a special noble. Really, if she needs to rely on someone for such a little thing, some day she will be crushed by her own problems.”

Saito was completely speechless.

It was just as Louise said.

But, but…

Looking at Louise now, she had at some point, little by little, paddled across her river of problems.

“Hey you, when someone is trying to have a serious talk, don’t fall asleep.”

“…Who’s fault do you think it is that I’m losing sleep?”

“Huh?”

Louise leaned her head back and appeared to have fallen asleep. Having been completely ignored, Saito scratched his head in confusion.

In bed, Louise’s face blushed.

She felt embarrassed about her earlier behavior.

No matter what kind of bully, isn’t it better to say something? If it was said that the La Valliere family were Tiffania’s guardian, that would be a good warning.

Her earlier statement was certainly correct.

If you were to deal with every case of bullying, there would be no end. Being the bearer of the “Void” regardless of whether she wanted to or not, Tiffania had to be ready for any danger. Hostility, be it mean classmates or strong enemies, could be around any corner.

But.. that was not her real intention.

She was actually a bit envious.

Lately, although she had been cold to Saito, she thought of him being stuck on Tiffania. That kind of thing made her furious.

But, of course she wouldn’t say a word about it.

She couldn’t forgive herself for being envious, thought Louise as she bit her lip under the covers.

Being envious, not reaching out to Saito when she should, ‘I’m…the worst,’ Louise thought.

Because she was like that, did Saito become cold to her?

As those thoughts began coming up endlessly…, sleep took over. Hidden under the covers, tears spilled down her face.

Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter2

2010-02-11T09:16:31Z

RonnieCorny: name of the Gallian commander of Alhambra

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===Chapter Two: The Queen and the Duke===

In the workroom of the Tristain‘s Royal Palace, the Queen worried alone. She had just sent a letter to Louise in Germania.

She was relieved and happy that her friend was safe, but though it did not turn out badly, she still felt uneasy.

“Right now, for Gallia, this doesn’t mean a thing…”

''Fuh'' – she let out a long sigh, just as a knock came from the door.

“Who is it?”

“It’s me, Your Majesty.”

It was Musketeer Commander Agnes.

“Aah, you came at a right time, Commander.”

Henrietta stood up and opened the door. Prideful and hard as steel, Agnes and a few of her troops stood there. The Queen showed a thankful expression.

“Please choose a few trusted subordinates and get ready to go.”

“We are prepared to leave anytime. Your Majesty only has to tell us where.”

Interrupted by one of Agnes’ eager soldiers, Henrietta gave a slight smile.

“To the La Vallière Estate, then. Since it is an informal visit, please prepare a suitable coach too.”

“Is something worrying you?”

Agnes, noticing Henrietta’s tired face, asked before leaving the room.

“Yes - the letter that came from Louise.”

“It’s alright – she safely rescued that Gallian princess.”

“That’s not it. She wrote that she will respectfully accept any punishment I will deem necessary. Does that child not understand how worried she makes me?”

“Are you not going to punish her?”

Henrietta became silent.

“Was there an official protest from Gallia?”

Henrietta shook her head.

“Then the only crimes would be breaking out of the prison and crossing a border without permission. No, Gallia has been acting seditious lately, so having a former royal family member at hand would not be politically bad at all. The benefits compensate for the losses, so how about settling with giving no rewards or punishments?”

“You are kind, Commander.”

“Your Majesty, why do you insist on passing the judgment at La Vallière’s house?

“I wanted to publicly show that even though she is my friend, justice will be delivered fairly.”

Agnes watched Henrietta with gentle eyes.

“You are overdoing it, Your Majesty. The court will be witnessed by the noble family members.”

“And for that reason, I need to show firm resolve.”

Henrietta, in a gesture of a thoughtful, fastidious girl, bit her lip. Agnes smoothly drew her sword.

“I am Your Majesty’s sword. Just order me and I will serve you with this sword. Yet, I am a sword and a shield. Whenever there is danger, I will shield Your Majesty with my body. However, how many of those court nobles are Your Majesty’s swords and shields? Reliable in need, with ethics and reason of a simple servicewoman like me, who would be completely devoted to Your Majesty. No matter what happens, they do not doubt you and have a heart of steel. If you have such friends – value them dearly, Your Majesty.”

Hearing Agnes’s words, Henrietta bit her lip. Her restless fingers started fiddling with her skirt.

“But I agree with Your Majesty, remission without discipline is not acceptable. In this case, I will trust Your Majesty’s judgment. Then how about repaying for that little unpaid work from before?”

Henrietta shifted uneasily.

“We need everyone’s consent.”

“And how many these 'everyone' could equal them in their noble deed?”

Henrietta became silent.

“It is everyone's answer.”

Agnes bowed and went out of the working room to prepare the queen’s carriage. Left alone, Henrietta watched the letter from Louise.

Then she made a face that was about to cry.

“Everyone is just so selfish! People's hearts are a mystery! Not just me, father, the whole family!”

After spewing out all those angry words, Henrietta pressed the letter against her heart. Besides, there was something she needed to talk with Louise’s family about. It was really saddening.

However, the first thing she needed to do was to express her gratitude for her friends' safety, Henrietta thought.

“I am glad you are alright. Thank you, Founder Brimir, for bringing my friends back, safe and sound.”

After leaving the workroom, Agnes went to the stable to prepare the horses. After that, she went towards the musketeers building nearby, and after calling the vice-commander of the troops, gave her the instructions on what to do during her absence. It didn’t take long to finish the preparations. And now, riding a horse, she passed under the castle gates.

There, waiting for Agnes, stood a man whose face was hidden by a deep hood.

Seeing the man, Agnes stopped her horse next to him.

“We’ll be heading to the La Vallière Estate. You must come as well.”

“You did not bring me here to throw me in prison?”

The man’s hood moved. Colbert’s honest face appeared from there.

“There was no prison escape with your help.”

“What?”

“We can’t let it be publicly known that someone can escape from the prison with the help of just two people.”

Agnes had a displeased look on her face. Colbert sheepishly bowed.

“But why to take me to the the La Vallière estate?”

“You don’t want to meet your pupils?”

Hearing those words, Colbert’s face lit up.

“Ah! Then they must have succeeded! I am so glad! Ahaha, I am really glad!”

Agnes called a subordinate musketeer to prepare Colbert's horse. After that, with the rest of the musketeers, they waited for queen’s carriage in front of castle gates.

In the La Vallière castle, powerful family members gathered and waited impatiently. A gorgeous lunch was served on the big table in the dining room; however, no one tried to touch the dishes.

Duke de La Vallière was sitting at the end of the table, his hard gray eyes were shining.

''Pon!'' his fist hit the table. Even though the sound was loud, no one, including servants, moved a muscle. It was not unusual for the duke to express his anger this openly.

“Louise, that chit, does she have an idea how worried she makes us?!”

“It is as father says. Without the family’s consent, she takes part in a war, crosses the national borders without permission, and sneaks into Gallia! It could turn into another war!”

[[Image:ZnT11-039.jpg|thumb]]

Eleonore’s sharp eyes were blazing behind the glasses when she agreed with father’s words. She gathered the information that leaked out of Tristania’s academy.

Cattleya was silently listening to her father and elder sister's words, before her Louise-like pink hair started to shake as she began pleasantly laughing.

“Isn’t it great? Helping out a classmate from Gallia – how heroic. I’m proud of her.”

Eleonore gave Cattleya a piercing glare.

“This is not the time for laughs. Weren’t you the one helping out that child last time? Weren’t you the one who melted the golden chain of the drawbridge not so long time ago.”

“Hmm, I can’t remember such thing.”

Cattleya continued to laugh softly.

“Really? But this time this child broke the country's laws. Doesn’t Her Majesty come here for this – to give her direct judgment? It could even be the whole family destruction!”

“You are exaggerating.”

Cattleya said while laughing.

“I am not exaggerating. As it is, because in the previous cases we did not send troops to the war, the government is not likely to be merciful.”

It was so. The La Vallière duke house, during the recent Albion campaign, hasn’t sent even a single soldier. As a result, an enormous military service exemption tax was imposed. Though the La Vallière duke house obediently paid it, the nobles who went to the war criticized the duke as a "disloyal."

“This is not a revolt against the royal family. Besides, isn’t Louise her majesty’s friend? I don’t think there will be a severe punishment given.”

“She would not remember such an old thing. Besides, Louise returns from the Von Zerbst estate, right? The Ancestors would grieve hearing such a thing.”

Then the sisters both fell silent as their mother, Duchess de La Vallière, opened her mouth.

“Before receiving judgment from Her Majesty, this family has its own punishment to give.”

With these words, the air in the dining room froze. To the face of Duke de La Vallière blanched.

“P-Punishment to give?”

“As stated, I will give it myself.”

The servants, who stood silently behind them, started to tremble.

Eleonore had an unusually strained smile on her lips.

“I-It’s nothing mother should be concerned with… Right, Cattleya?”

Cattleya's voice was nervous for a moment.

“I-I think so too.”

''Kohn'' coughed Duke de La Vallière.

“Umm, Karin. It’s like the daughters say. Nothing to bother with… Right Jerome?”

The duke requested an agreement from the butler.

“Ah, I have to go. I just remembered I have things to do.”

The old butler hastily retreated. As if by a signal, all servants left the dining room together.

Simultaneously, with the stomping sounds of the closing door, the duchess stood up. Her expression didn’t change. However, something strong rises swaying in slow motion from her body.

"It‘s my responsibility for my daughter's carelessness, thus I myself will give her the education. Isn't that so?"

Duke de La Vallière, with trembling fingers began to fiddle with his mustache. He recalled the old times. Youth, beauty, and the severe past of his wife…

“It is so! A-Asking for a strict lecture! Give me a second…”

These words were muted by a strong roaring sound. Dust fluttered down the table. Looking up, one could see the whole wall vanish completely, under the indescribably powerful spell.

The duchess who was holding the wand, shook her head and said.

“Even more so – we cannot look weak… Well, I think so anyway.”

“K-Karin! Therefore Louise…”

The duchess glared at her husband's face.

“She is your and my daughter! It has to look strict! After a long time, when you're looking back, you’ll see her being raised up wrong because of your selfish whim!”

At the shout of his wife, the duke instinctively ducked his head.

“S-Sorry!”

“Our family is important, our daughter is important as well; I don’t want to pass on either. That’s why the "Heavy Winds" will give the punishment to our daughter. Her Majesty will see.”

“Hey, Louise. Tell me what’s wrong?”

Saito was watching Louse with concern. Since the carriage entered La Vallière's territory, Louise, for a while now was trembling. It was at the same time intense and restless.

Sitting on the opposite seat, Guiche, Malicorne, and Montmorency mysteriously watched Louise too.

“Do you have a fever? Are you cold?”

Kirche, who was sitting next to Saito, placed a hand on surprisingly cold fingers and asked in a shocked voice. Tabitha was sitting next them. Her mother was left in Kirche's residence rather than taking her to Tristain. Though Kirche recommended for her to remain in residence with her mother, Tabitha was stubborn. Well, she could leave Kirche’s residence safely, as Tabitha would be taken as part of their traveling party. Tabitha's mother’s mind was still because of the sickness, but she started liking seeing Tabitha more often and was not frightened by her anymore.

“Hey Tabitha, don’t you agree that Louise is acting strange?”

Ignoring what was said, Tabitha casted a glance at Louise. Unusually, a book was not with her. She strongly grasped the long cane she found in Baron Misscoeur's room while escaping the Alhambra castle and looked closer at her.

Tabitha could see Louise’s shoulders shivering.

“Frightened.”

She said.

“When invading the Alhambra castle, she was not scared. But now, returning to her parents and family, she is? Strange child.”

Saito recalled Louise's parents. Louise’s father who wore hard armor, the impenetrable Duke de La Vallière…

Louise’s eldest sister, Eleonore, who took Louise’s personality even further to an extreme…

Can one be blamed to be scared of such a family?

“But, well, I guess it’s the cause for not eating. The other day, you ran away without getting a permission to take part in the war.”

“Circumstances are different.”

Louise said in a shaky voice.

“Circumstances?”

“Taking part in a war without permission was not breaking the <nowiki>'rules'</nowiki>”

Saito lightly tapped Louise’s shoulder.

“If it is not a rule, then they're like Princess-sama; angry on you like a monarchic government prefecture for violating the law? Then I guess your father and elder sister are angry too. Still, it can’t be as bad as beheading…”

Saito remembered Louise’s fathers angry face and shivered.

“On the contrary. In my family, if one violates the regulations, being hated is as badly as being dead.”

Louise hugged herself with both hands and started trembling heavily.

“W-What?! You are scared this much?! Who is it? Is it the father? Or that young woman?”

“M-M-M-M...”

“M-?”

“Mother.”

Saito tried to revive that little glimpse he had on Louise’s mother. Though she had a strong, high-handed aura around her, she was sitting quietly. It certainly didn’t look like a person who could make others shiver in fear.”

“She’ll spank you?”

Hearing that, Louise clutched her stomach as if in pain.

“Louise! Louise! What is it?”

“Eeeh, Louise, is your mother that scary?”

Malicorne said in a growing senile voice.

In a heavy, as if cursing, voice, Louise spit out.

“Do you… Know the predecessor commander of Manticore troops?”

“Who would not know about such celebrity! Karin the ‘Heavy Wind’ was it? It is said that the lower half of her face was always covered with an iron mask… She served the kingdom since the start as the wind user. They called this magic a ‘heavy wind,’ but ‘raging storm’ would have been a more appropriate name for it.”

Guiche, after Malicorne's words, also recalled few things.

“When Eustace raised a revolt, wasn’t it the ‘Heavy Wind’ who suppressed it single-handedly? Father told me, that when he was young, he lead his troops to take over the Cardin Bridge, but it was already taken over by Karin the Heavy Wind. And that it has been said that the Heavy Wind used to work alone.”

Soon, they began telling one after another, old hero stories.

“When Germania troops were skirmishing at the border, it is said that once the rumors spread that 'the Wind' was at the front-line, enemies ran away.”

“However, there are rumors that she was a very beautiful person. According to the rumor, she was a beauty in male attire…”

“Indeed. But one can question does really such a strong, disguising as a man, woman… Really exists?”

Guiche’s face turned blue once he heard Montmorency's words.

“C-Could it be that Karin the Heavy Wind is…”

Louise said in a strained voice.

“My mother.”

Everyone in the carriage looked at each other, and then nervously asked Louise.

“Lying?”

“I am not. D-Do you know the motto of Manticore unit of that time?”

All the party members shook their heads. As one might be expect, no one knew the motto of the corps.

“Rule of steel. My mother hated lack of discipline the most.”

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Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter1

2010-02-11T07:08:03Z

RonnieCorny:

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===Chapter One: Von Zerbst===

Within the deep, dark woods of Germania stood Von Zerbst Castle. But even though it was called a castle, it was considerably different from the Tristanian ones.

The old stone-made building probably had a splendid history, and the repeatedly added random extensions increased its original size twofold. The architectural style was uncertain as well.
The rising top looked of ancient Tristain and Gallia, the high steeples belonged to Varon’s style, while the middle wall underwent a massive transformation under Albion’s architectural influence.

Next to the delicate Romalian brick tower stood a large Germanian citadel made of massive rocks… Thus, ignoring the looks and prestige, this building was a mess. Tristain’s and Gallia’s nobles furrowed their eyebrows upon seeing such a castle, and the respective liberty and innovation of Germania, the Country of Fire, made them frown deeply.

In this castle, within a room devoted to the cheerful and warm feeling of spring, Saito was sound asleep. Because he just took part in a big adventure, his body felt very tired.

In his deep sleep, Saito was dreaming. It was a nostalgic dream.

A dream of his hometown. A dream of Earth…

His mother was cooking in the kitchen, and he watched her from behind.

“Mother, what are you making?”

“Your favorite - hamburger steak.”

For some reason, such a casual conversation pierced hard through his chest. His mother turned around. Her familiar face. The same gentle, calm face of his mother...

“Saito, you, why are you crying?”

“Huh?”

Saito rubbed his eyes. They were full of tears.

“Such a strange child.”

Said the smiling face of his mother as it changed into the face of Tabitha’s mother. Surprised, Saito let out a cry.

“Uwaa!”

Saito woke up from his yell.

“A dream…”

It was already the second dream of his mother. Being so far away, it was a wonder he could recall her face at all.

Saito rose from bed and looked out of the window. The sun has already gone halfway. The bed next to him, where Malicorne and Guiche should have been sleeping, was empty. No one had slept in it for some time.

Saito dressed and turned to leave the room…

“Saito.”

Louise stood in the doorway.

“Oh, Louise. Good morning.”

For some reason, Louise shyly casted her eyes down when Saito greeted her.

“Lunch has been prepared. Everyone is waiting.”

“You should have woken me up then.”

“I tried. But you would not wake up.”

“I-I see. Sorry.”

Saito said looking away. He became embarrassed remembering the dream. It may have been a journey deep in the dream world, but the dream of his mother was strangely embarrassing.

Both Tabitha and her mother were saved from Gallia‘s old castle five days ago. Last night, they arrived at Kirche‘s family's, the Von Zerbst, residence in Germania. Louise and Saito, Kirche, Guiche and Montmorency, Malicorne, Tabitha and her mother; overall - eight people and Sylphid managed to safely cross the border.

Gallian military, after learning that Tabitha and her mother went missing, placed checkpoints along the highway, checking passing travelers, but on every such point Sylphid would transform and Guiche would cast a spell pretending to be an important person, thus fooling the check.

Because the local Gallian army has fallen into disorder, it was easy to escape the line. The morale of local soldiers who stood in the check was low. Some soldiers would not even do a proper check on carriages, before mumbling the unmotivated "Go." The Kingdom of Gallia apparently did not care about prefectures too much, often excluding the army‘s direct control.

The best troops were placed on the border with Germania. Calling themselves the Knights of Roses, were a squad of elite knights placed there.

The party was nervous.

When they thoroughly rummaged the carriage, they found the disguised Tabitha.

Make-up was wiped from the face of the sleeping Tabitha,

“This girl…”

It was the young leader of the knights, who introduced himself as Castelmorr.

That moment, Kirche grasped her wand and Saieto pulled out his sword.

However, Castelmorr got out of the carriage and loudly proclaimed,

“All clear! You may pass!”

Border passage was permitted. When the carriage crossed the border, they sent their expression of gratitude to the splendid knight. He, who should have captured Tabitha, Saito, and others, had let them go.

When Tabitha woke up and they told her about the incident, she just calmly said “I see.”

“Even though he was not an ally, he was not an enemy either. I was relieved.”

Saito recalled the conversation upon crossing the national border and nodded.

“Tabitha?”

“She is asleep in the room over there.”

Louise, from the room prepared for them, pointed to the door across the corridor in front of them. Saito nodded and slightly pushed the door. It was not locked. Making a slight sound, the door opened.

From the opening, Saito glanced into the room.

Mother and child, hugging each other tight, were sleeping soundly on the big bed.

They were saved by Saito and others, Tabitha and her mother were.

“Anyway, they are finally safe.”

Louise, who stood by his side, nodded.

“Oh well. Besides, this is Germania… Gallia can’t do much here.”

Saito nodded and, feeling uneasy, asked,

“Hey, yesterday, when you sent the letter…”

Last night, Louise sent a letter addressed to Henrietta in Tristain by owl. It was filled with Louise’s lengthy apologies.

First, it began with a report that Tabitha had been rescued safely, followed by an apology for crossing the border without permission; secondly, a statement of her willingness to take any punishment needed and the hope to return within three days' time.

“You didn't write about my arrest, did you?”

Though he watched closely as Louise wrote the letter, because he did not understand the characters, he could not understand the content that was written. Louise would not take his crimes for herself, would she? He thought, and asked tentatively.

“Not really.”

Louise responded with a calm face.

Saito looked deeply into Louise’s eyes for a while. They were filled with little shining sparkles.

“Really? Aren’t you lying this way? It all started because of me; thus, it is me who should bear the responsibility…”

For a moment, Louise’s sparkling eyes lost their light as she fixed her sight on Saito.

“If you are caught, then you won’t be able to return…”

“Hey! That’s true, but…I am responsible as a sub-commander of the Knight Corps…”

Saito changed recently. When he was talking about "responsibility" or "what he can do in this world," it all was making Louise perplexed. Didn’t he want to return to his world?

“Yeah, yeah. That story is already over. Let’s go, everyone is waiting.”

Saito, before turning to leave, peeked one last time as Tabitha snuggled closer to her mother. Then… something deep in his heart became strangely numb.

“What’s wrong?”

“N-Nothing.”

Saito and Louise left the mother and child asleep, and went to everyone who had been waiting in the dinning room.

While in the corridor, seeing the Von Zerbst castle’s furniture, Louise started complaining,

“Pshh, it’s the first time I have seen a residence with such a bad taste.”

Even so, Saito did not know a thing about the quality of the furniture’s in Halkeginia’s castle anyway. Well, it had a lot of Tristain statues and paintings lined up.

“Making this corridor in the manner of Tristain and then for some reason placing these paintings from the east in. Meaningless. Or perhaps rather than stressing over the eastern paintings, I should be more mad about the mimicry of Tristain to begin with. Either way it’s retarded.”

Louise pointed at the image of a God with many arms. For a moment it looked like a statue of the goddess of mercy with one thousand hands that Saito saw during a school excursion. Apparently, Louise could not forgive such casual decorating manner in using the furniture of her hometown.

“Look, this is Giovanni Lascault’s religious painting. It’s tint completely mismatches the color of the wall. Ugh, these upstart nobles of Germania…”

As Louise continued fuming about, Saito said in an embarrassed voice,

“Umm, Louise.”

“Huh?”

“Walls, statues, paintings – they all are alright… But this… Look of yours…”

“What’s wrong with my look?”

''Tsun'' – Louise turned around to face him and asked.

“…You didn't take your dancer costume off?”

Underneath the mantle Louise was still wearing the same oriental dancer clothes that she wore while saving Tabitha.

With all its worth, these clothes were designed only to conceal the most pivotal points, and it was embarrassing, whatever exposed place he guided his eyes on.

“Reluctantly so. It's the only clothing I have to wear.”

For some reason, when Louise said that, her voice sounded triumphant.

“Argh! Put on the clothes you wore before changing to it – the Academy of Magic school uniform!”

“That? It’s dirty, so out of the question. I won’t put it on.”

“This is dirty in a different way! There!”

Saito shouted while turning his eyes away from Louise. Seeing her like that was making him feel nervous.

“That, isn’t it Kirche’s family house? That sort of attire is very suitable for Kirche's family as it seems from the eyes of the servants.”

Just then, a young female employee, wrapped in a showy red clothes, happened to pass by.

Louise calmly hid her body behind the mantle. Indeed, this way, Louise's slender limbs were completely hidden.

“Hey, she can’t see you that way!”

Once the employee passed, while giving a quick bow, ''swish'' - Louise provocatively swung the edge of her mantle, exposing the silky skin of her thigh. A teasing smile formed on her pink lips.

[[Image:ZnT11-021.jpg|thumb]]

''Swish-swish'' More of Louise’s white skin caught Saito’s eyes, making him color up and turn his face away.

“S-Stop it… Your mantle fluttering like that…”

This made Louise’s face deeply blush, yet she continued to stare at him.

“Why?”

“W-Why, well, you, uh, looking like that…”

“Looking like what?”

“Skin and stuff…”

“Are you stuuuupid? Are you excited just by looking at your master’s body? Unbelievable! How vulgar! You should die. In the forest.”

Blushing, Louise declared.

“Do you have any sense of shame?!”

“S-Shame for what! There’s nothing wrong with being seen by a familiar!”

Flurried Louise countered.

Firstly, in the carriage, Saito’s feverish gaze when he looked at her dancer’s clothing, was very amusing. But as if showing was not satisfying enough, she went up with the whole provocative ending.

However, trying to act calm was extremely embarrassing. ''What the heck was I thinking about – after everyone fell asleep,'' Louise raged wiggling in her blanket. She raged and raged, continuing to worry and worry more.

What would God think, seeing her present act?

Not just God, but Chii-nee-sama too?

While thinking so, cheeks burning from shame, Louise cursed herself.

While within the carriage, her distress continued… Louise pondered.

Though it was shameful to death, it also felt good.

''Aah, his gaze, solely focused on me and not on the other girls — that felt really good. By all means, I should wear these dancing clothes more. It was embarrassing, but this strange feeling of triumph was stronger than the feeling of shame.''

“Stop scrutinizing so much. Anyway, there's no ulterior motive and no deeper meaning to this. I’m just wearing what I want to wear.”

Louise said in an angry voice. Though in truth it made her feel wonderful and glad, it would make her very furious if that was recognized; though she could not say why it would make her mad. With such contradictions struggling within her heart, Louise continued to speak.

“Stop looking so intensively at me. Haah, what’s a life-form not given by birth? You.”

Naturally, Saito’s pride was severely damaged by such words. Saito turned his neck to the other side, thus completely averting the glance from Louise.

“Who's looking?”

The two walked silently for a while. Eventually, missing his gaze, Louise started to lose her temper. It is so trivial.

Finding the mirror put on the wall, Louise halted in front of it.

“Who is this cute girl?”

“Hey, move on.”

“I think that’s me.”

“Yeah yeah.”

Saito kept his head turned to the other side. Louise was growing increasingly angry. In her mind she started repeating strings of angry words. ''Loveyouhesaidloveyouhesailoveyouhesaid''.

''Whyishepretendingnottoseewhyishepretendingnottoseewhyishepretendingnottoseelooklooklookgettingangrylook''.

Irritated, Louise went for her secret trump. She placed her delicate finger on her cheek.

“I wonder.”

“H-Hey, let's go.”

Nervous, Saito urged Louise. As always, he was looking at the opposite direction. ''Kaaaaan'' – a lot of blood went up to Louise’s head. I’m acting so cute, I’m acting so cute and yet... Can’t let that happen. Pride soared high in Louise, like from the blood that ran up to her head. Result: Louise’s temperament broke loose.

“B, B-B-B, B-B...”

“B? What about it?”

“B, B-B-B-B-B, my breast cloth, i, i-i-i, i-i, if I remove it, w-w, wonder how I would look. Sex appeal increases cuteness, no doubt.”

“HAAH?!”

“There’s no doubt. Sex appeal easily attracts my familiar.”

Saito, determined not to lose, stood his ground. It was like this in his head – looking at Louise now would mean her victory and his defeat. Thus, with his right hand he pinched himself, desperately fighting against the overwhelming desire "to look."

“Then the b-b-breast cloth w-w-w-will go.”

“How long will you hesitate? E-Everyone will see you if you wait.”

“Hey you!”

“Pshh.”

“I won’t hesitate.”

Saito applied more power to the finger digging into his thigh. From the pain, cold sweat flowed. Seriously, flowed.
However, he won’t look. A man decided not to look; so, he won’t look.

Louise gave a lot of care to the cloth which covered her chest. "Move," but the hand won’t move even if ordered. It was shameful. No, shame was not the only thing. Death. Her head will explode and she will die from shame.

And then it changes again. Though she returned her noble position to Her Majesty, her noble pride was still there. By all means. It is necessarily for a master to make a familiar to turn his eyes on her, so that there would be no regrets left.

Even though she is confused, because blood went up her head, Louise didn't notice such thing. Her pride was driving her insane.

“Waah!”

With a shout she lowered her breast cloth.

Saito was surprised. Even if he was not surprised, the moment when Louise shouted, his head moved on its own, disregarding his intentions. And thus, his head graciously turned to Louise.

The first thing Saito’s eyes jumped on was the pulled down the fabric of the dancing costume, covering the breasts, Louise’s slender fingers covering the exposed top of her breasts… which looked rather plain.

Saito, at the reflection speed of the insect level, jumped at Louise. And clung close to her.

“Sorry, can’t help it.”

Recovered from her daze, Louise gripped the back of Saito’s head and tried to pull him off.　

“W-Wait a minute… stop! W-W-W-What are you thinking…?”

Then she saw Saito’s feverish eyes. W-What a look. Such a crazy passion that she, she…contrary to her will, Louise closed her eyes.

“W-We… are very likely to be imprisoned when returning back to Tristain, right?”

“…R-Right.”

Then a painful thought pierced Louise's mind. If… she will be put into prison for all this…

Then she would not be able to meet Saito for a while.

“…then if so, maybe it’s the only time we can be alone as a couple?”

After those words…this time spent held firmly in Saito’s arms felt irreplaceable. These thoughts, and Saito’s passionate look, deprived the last remains of the strength from her resisting hand.

“I-Is it alright?”

Louise, still nervous and shy, slightly parted her lips and puckered them up.

“S-Stop a-asking, idiot…”

Louise, looking very shy, was so lovely at this moment, that Saito’s head started spin.

He hugged her close to him,

Louise’s mind was in a turmoil.

Aah, I am sorry ancestor-sama. Louise Françoise is about to be swept off her feet in the bitter enemy Von Zerbst's castle. When I passed through the gates, I never thought it would lead to this. I am sorry ancestor-sama, mother-sama, elder sister-sama, Chii-nee-sama – everyone – I am sorry…

The passion was so strong that her mind started to leave, fading away…

But then, with the corner of her eye, she noticed red hair moving across the corridor. Louise's reaction was blitz-quick. She kicked Saito in the groin and quickly leaped back to her feet.

“Because you were both missing for so long, I came to check up on you.”

Guiche put a hand on his chin and shook his head.

“You, what are you doing in other people's homes?”

Kirche asked, not hiding the amazement in her voice.

Louise’s mouth opened and closed few times, vaguely trying to remember any letter of the alphabet to utter. She shivered while cold sweat dripped down her skin.

“ An i-insect leeched to my neck so I tried to take it off.”

“And of course for that you needed to take off your breast cloth?”

Kirche asked with a malicious smile. Louise’s body stiffened. Slowly, she dropped on her knees and her shoulders sagged.

Meanwhile, Saito was busy twitching on the floor.

Kirche approached Louise. She placed a hand on her shoulder, mischief was dazzling from her smile.

“Had enough of your lustful antics? And I thought no one would best me.”

“T-That’s not it, it has nothing to do with lust. It kind of shifted on its own!”

Shaking her temple, Louise came off with a desperate excuse.

“It’s alright. I have a gift for you.”

“Not needed.”

“It’s a letter from Tristain.”

The party, with tensed faces, gathered in Kirche’s room.

“Extremely soon.”

“Surely, it must be because she is so very angry, that queen of your country.”

Relaxed, Kirche spread her hands and said. Louise carefully eyed the letter that Kirche passed to her. The envelope was made from high-class parchment and had Tristain’s kingdom signature placed on it. Crest of Lilies that she got used to seeing… a reply from Henrietta so soon.

In this letter, the others and my fate is engraved. How did Henrietta judge me?

Her hand trembled from the tension. Saito watched her face nervously as well. Guiche, Montmorency, and Malicorne held their breath too, watching Louise's act.

Kirche carefully said to Louise, who was still not breaking the seal,

“Hey Louise, you know about that letter. It is not necessary to return to Tristain. You can stay in my house.”

“You aren't worried about our teacher, Colbert?”

Colbert volunteered to take Louise’s and the others' place so that they could pass the border.

Afterwards, there was no news from him. Even the crew of the ''Ostland'' that arrived at Von Zerbst had no information.

“If it’s Jean, then it will be alright. Surely, he hid himself somewhere. The report will come sooner or later. But if he were caught, then I would go on another rescuing adventure.”

“No good. It would be much tougher than before.”

Then Louise took a deep breath and opened the envelope in a dash. The letter inside had just a single peace of paper. And a short sentence was written in there. Reading it, Louise started to tremble.

“W-What is it?! What’s written in there!”

Saito, who was not able to endure the tension any longer, pressed her.

“Just this much was written? And more importantly, what is written on that? Give it to me.”

Kirche took the letter from Louise’s hand.

“What, 'Henrietta will wait at the La Vallière estate.' My, isn’t that good. She will wait at your family's home. Maybe it won’t be so tough there.”

Kirche said pretending not to know. Louise’s shivering reached its peak. She just managed to utter.

“At home...”

“Why? Isn’t it good if you can speak with your family - they might protect you.”

“Far from protecting, I will be killed.”

As if giving up, Louise lowered her head.

<noinclude>
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; padding: 0.2em; border-collapse: collapse;"
|-
| Back to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Epilogue|Volume 10]]
| Return to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume11_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter1

2010-02-11T06:57:03Z

RonnieCorny:

{{Template:PREVIEW}}

===Chapter One: Von Zerbst===

Within the deep, dark woods of Germania stood Von Zerbst Castle. But even though it was called a castle, it was considerably different from the Tristanian ones.

The old stone-made building probably had a splendid history, and the repeatedly added random extensions increased its original size twofold. The architectural style was uncertain as well.
The rising top looked of ancient Tristain and Gallia, the high steeples belonged to Varon’s style, while the middle wall underwent a massive transformation under Albion’s architectural influence.

Next to the delicate Romalian brick tower stood a large Germanian citadel made of massive rocks… Thus, ignoring the looks and prestige, this building was a mess. Tristain’s and Gallia’s nobles furrowed their eyebrows upon seeing such a castle, and the respective liberty and innovation of Germania, the Country of Fire, made them frown deeply.

In this castle, within a room devoted to the cheerful and warm feeling of spring, Saito was sound asleep. Because he just took part in a big adventure, his body felt very tired.

In his deep sleep, Saito was dreaming. It was a nostalgic dream.

A dream of his hometown. A dream of Earth…

His mother was cooking in the kitchen, and he watched her from behind.

“Mother, what are you making?”

“Your favorite - hamburger steak.”

For some reason, such a casual conversation pierced hard through his chest. His mother turned around. Her familiar face. The same gentle, calm face of his mother...

“Saito, you, why are you crying?”

“Huh?”

Saito rubbed his eyes. They were full of tears.

“Such a strange child.”

Said the smiling face of his mother as it changed into the face of Tabitha’s mother. Surprised, Saito let out a cry.

“Uwaa!”

Saito woke up from his yell.

“A dream…”

It was already the second dream of his mother. Being so far away, it was a wonder he could recall her face at all.

Saito rose from bed and looked out of the window. The sun has already gone halfway. The bed next to him, where Malicorne and Guiche should have been sleeping, was empty. No one had slept in it for some time.

Saito dressed and turned to leave the room…

“Saito.”

Louise stood in the doorway.

“Oh, Louise. Good morning.”

For some reason, Louise shyly casted her eyes down when Saito greeted her.

“Lunch has been prepared. Everyone is waiting.”

“You should have woken me up then.”

“I tried. But you would not wake up.”

“I-I see. Sorry.”

Saito said looking away. He became embarrassed remembering the dream. It may have been a journey deep in the dream world, but the dream of his mother was strangely embarrassing.

Both Tabitha and her mother were saved from Gallia‘s old castle five days ago. Last night, they arrived at Kirche‘s family's, the Von Zerbst, residence in Germania. Louise and Saito, Kirche, Guiche and Montmorency, Malicorne, Tabitha and her mother; overall - eight people and Sylphid managed to safely cross the border.

Gallian military, after learning that Tabitha and her mother went missing, placed checkpoints along the highway, checking passing travelers, but on every such point Sylphid would transform and Guiche would cast a spell pretending to be an important person, thus fooling the check.

Because the local Gallian army has fallen into disorder, it was easy to escape the line. The morale of local soldiers who stood in the check was low. Some soldiers would not even do a proper check on carriages, before mumbling the unmotivated "Go." The Kingdom of Gallia apparently did not care about prefectures too much, often excluding the army‘s direct control.

The best troops were placed on the border with Germania. Calling themselves the Knights of Roses, were a squad of elite knights placed there.

The party was nervous.

When they thoroughly rummaged the carriage, they found the disguised Tabitha.

Make-up was wiped from the face of the sleeping Tabitha,

“This girl…”

It was the young leader of the knights, who introduced himself as Castelmorr.

That moment, Kirche grasped her wand and Saieto pulled out his sword.

However, Castelmorr got out of the carriage and loudly proclaimed,

“All clear! You may pass!”

Border passage was permitted. When the carriage crossed the border, they sent their expression of gratitude to the splendid knight. He, who should have captured Tabitha, Saito, and others, had let them go.

When Tabitha woke up and they told her about the incident, she just calmly said “I see.”

“Even though he was not an ally, he was not an enemy either. I was relieved.”

Saito recalled the conversation upon crossing the national border and nodded.

“Tabitha?”

“She is asleep in the room over there.”

Louise, from the room prepared for them, pointed to the door across the corridor in front of them. Saito nodded and slightly pushed the door. It was not locked. Making a slight sound, the door opened.

From the opening, Saito glanced into the room.

Mother and child, hugging each other tight, were sleeping soundly on the big bed.

They were saved by Saito and others, Tabitha and her mother were.

“Anyway, they are finally safe.”

Louise, who stood by his side, nodded.

“Oh well. Besides, this is Germania… Gallia can’t do much here.”

Saito nodded and, feeling uneasy, asked,

“Hey, yesterday, when you sent the letter…”

Last night, Louise sent a letter addressed to Henrietta in Tristain by owl. It was filled with Louise’s lengthy apologies.

First, it began with a report that Tabitha had been rescued safely, followed by an apology for crossing the border without permission; secondly, a statement of her willingness to take any punishment needed and the hope to return within three days' time.

“You didn't write about my arrest, did you?”

Though he watched closely as Louise wrote the letter, because he did not understand the characters, he could not understand the content that was written. Louise would not take his crimes for herself, would she? He thought, and asked tentatively.

“Not really.”

Louise responded with a calm face.

Saito looked deeply into Louise’s eyes for a while. They were filled with little shining sparkles.

“Really? Aren’t you lying this way? It all started because of me; thus, it is me who should bear the responsibility…”

For a moment, Louise’s sparkling eyes lost their light as she fixed her sight on Saito.

“If you are caught, then you won’t be able to return…”

“Hey! That’s true, but…I am responsible as a sub-commander of the Knight Corps…”

Saito changed recently. When he was talking about "responsibility" or "what he can do in this world," it all was making Louise perplexed. Didn’t he want to return to his world?

“Yeah, yeah. That story is already over. Let’s go, everyone is waiting.”

Saito, before turning to leave, peeked one last time as Tabitha snuggled closer to her mother. Then… something deep in his heart became strangely numb.

“What’s wrong?”

“N-Nothing.”

Saito and Louise left the mother and child asleep, and went to everyone who had been waiting in the dinning room.

While in the corridor, seeing the Von Zerbst castle’s furniture, Louise started complaining,

“Pshh, it’s the first time I have seen a residence with such a bad taste.”

Even so, Saito did not know a thing about the quality of the furniture’s in Halkeginia’s castle anyway. Well, it had a lot of Tristain statues and paintings lined up.

“Making this corridor in the manner of Tristain and then for some reason placing these paintings from the east in. Meaningless. Or perhaps rather than stressing over the eastern paintings, I should be more mad about the mimicry of Tristain to begin with. Either way it’s retarded.”

Louise pointed at the image of a God with many arms. For a moment it looked like a statue of the goddess of mercy with one thousand hands that Saito saw during a school excursion. Apparently, Louise could not forgive such casual decorating manner in using the furniture of her hometown.

“Look, this is Giovanni Lascault’s religious painting. It’s tint completely mismatches the color of the wall. Ugh, these upstart nobles of Germania…”

As Louise continued fuming about, Saito said in an embarrassed voice,

“Umm, Louise.”

“Huh?”

“Walls, statues, paintings – they all are alright… But this… Look of yours…”

“What’s wrong with my look?”

''Tsun'' – Louise turned around to face him and asked.

“…You didn't take your dancer costume off?”

Underneath the mantle Louise was still wearing the same oriental dancer clothes that she wore while saving Tabitha.

With all its worth, these clothes were designed only to conceal the most pivotal points, and it was embarrassing, whatever exposed place he guided his eyes on.

“Reluctantly so. It's the only clothing I have to wear.”

For some reason, when Louise said that, her voice sounded triumphant.

“Argh! Put on the clothes you wore before changing to it – the Academy of Magic school uniform!”

“That? It’s dirty, so out of the question. I won’t put it on.”

“This is dirty in a different way! There!”

Saito shouted while turning his eyes away from Louise. Seeing her like that was making him feel nervous.

“That, isn’t it Kirche’s family house? That sort of attire is very suitable for Kirche's family as it seems from the eyes of the servants.”

Just then, a young female employee, wrapped in a showy red clothes, happened to pass by.

Louise calmly hid her body behind the mantle. Indeed, this way, Louise's slender limbs were completely hidden.

“Hey, she can’t see you that way!”

Once the employee passed, while giving a quick bow, ''swish'' - Louise provocatively swung the edge of her mantle, exposing the silky skin of her thigh. A teasing smile formed on her pink lips.

[[Image:ZnT11-021.jpg|thumb]]

''Swish-swish'' More of Louise’s white skin caught Saito’s eyes, making him color up and turn his face away.

“S-Stop it… Your mantle fluttering like that…”

This made Louise’s face deeply blush, yet she continued to stare at him.

“Why?”

“W-Why, well, you, uh, looking like that…”

“Looking like what?”

“Skin and stuff…”

“Are you stuuuupid? Are you excited just by looking at your master’s body? Unbelievable! How vulgar! You should die. In the forest.”

Blushing, Louise declared.

“Do you have any sense of shame?!”

“S-Shame for what! There’s nothing wrong with being seen by a familiar!”

Flurried Louise countered.

Firstly, in the carriage, Saito’s feverish gaze when he looked at her dancer’s clothing, was very amusing. But as if showing was not satisfying enough, she went up with the whole provocative ending.

However, trying to act calm was extremely embarrassing. ''What the heck was I thinking about – after everyone fell asleep,'' Louise raged wiggling in her blanket. She raged and raged, continuing to worry and worry more.

What would God think, seeing her present act?

Not just God, but Chii-nee-sama too?

While thinking so, cheeks burning from shame, Louise cursed herself.

While within the carriage, her distress continued… Louise pondered.

Though it was shameful to death, it also felt good.

''Aah, his gaze, solely focused on me and not on the other girls — that felt really good. By all means, I should wear these dancing clothes more. It was embarrassing, but this strange feeling of triumph was stronger than the feeling of shame.''

“Stop scrutinizing so much. Anyway, there's no ulterior motive and no deeper meaning to this. I’m just wearing what I want to wear.”

Louise said in an angry voice. Though in truth it made her feel wonderful and glad, it would make her very furious if that was recognized; though she could not say why it would make her mad. With such contradictions struggling within her heart, Louise continued to speak.

“Stop looking so intensively at me. Haah, what’s a life-form not given by birth? You.”

Naturally, Saito’s pride was severely damaged by such words. Saito turned his neck to the other side, thus completely averting the glance from Louise.

“Who's looking?”

The two walked silently for a while. Eventually, missing his gaze, Louise started to loose her temper. It is so trivial.

Finding the mirror put on the wall, Louise halted in front of it.

“Who is this cute girl?”

“Hey, move on.”

“I think that’s me.”

“Yeah yeah.”

Saito kept his head turned to the other side. Louise was growing increasingly angry. In her mind she started repeating strings of angry words. ''Loveyouhesaidloveyouhesailoveyouhesaid''.

''Whyishepretendingnottoseewhyishepretendingnottoseewhyishepretendingnottoseelooklooklookgettingangrylook''.

Irritated, Louise went for her secret trump. She placed her delicate finger on her cheek.

“I wonder.”

“H-Hey, let's go.”

Nervous, Saito urged Louise. As always, he was looking at the opposite direction. ''Kaaaaan'' – a lot of blood went up to Louise’s head. I’m acting so cute, I’m acting so cute and yet... Can’t let that happen. Pride soared high in Louise, like from the blood that ran up to her head. Result: Louise’s temperament broke loose.

“B, B-B-B, B-B...”

“B? What about it?”

“B, B-B-B-B-B, my breast cloth, i, i-i-i, i-i, if I remove it, w-w, wonder how I would look. Sex appeal increases cuteness, no doubt.”

“HAAH?!”

“There’s no doubt. Sex appeal easily attracts my familiar.”

Saito, determined not to lose, stood his ground. It was like this in his head – looking at Louise now would mean her victory and his defeat. Thus, with his right hand he pinched himself, desperately fighting against the overwhelming desire "to look."

“Then the b-b-breast cloth w-w-w-will go.”

“How long will you hesitate? E-Everyone will see you if you wait.”

“Hey you!”

“Pshh.”

“I won’t hesitate.”

Saito applied more power to the finger digging into his thigh. From the pain, cold sweat flowed. Seriously, flowed.
However, he won’t look. A man decided not to look; so, he won’t look.

Louise gave a lot of care to the cloth which covered her chest. "Move," but the hand won’t move even if ordered. It was shameful. No, shame was not the only thing. Death. Her head will explode and she will die from shame.

And then it changes again. Though she returned her noble position to Her Majesty, her noble pride was still there. By all means. It is necessarily for a master to make a familiar to turn his eyes on her, so that there would be no regrets left.

Even though she is confused, because blood went up her head, Louise didn't notice such thing. Her pride was driving her insane.

“Waah!”

With a shout she lowered her breast cloth.

Saito was surprised. Even if he was not surprised, the moment when Louise shouted, his head moved on its own, disregarding his intentions. And thus, his head graciously turned to Louise.

The first thing Saito’s eyes jumped on was the pulled down the fabric of the dancing costume, covering the breasts, Louise’s slender fingers covering the exposed top of her breasts… which looked rather plain.

Saito, at the reflection speed of the insect level, jumped at Louise. And clung close to her.

“Sorry, can’t help it.”

Recovered from her daze, Louise gripped the back of Saito’s head and tried to pull him off.　

“W-Wait a minute… stop! W-W-W-What are you thinking…?”

Then she saw Saito’s feverish eyes. W-What a look. Such a crazy passion that she, she…contrary to her will, Louise closed her eyes.

“W-We… are very likely to be imprisoned when returning back to Tristain, right?”

“…R-Right.”

Then a painful thought pierced Louise's mind. If… she will be put into prison for all this…

Then she would not be able to meet Saito for a while.

“…then if so, maybe it’s the only time we can be alone as a couple?”

After those words…this time spent held firmly in Saito’s arms felt irreplaceable. These thoughts, and Saito’s passionate look, deprived the last remains of the strength from her resisting hand.

“I-Is it alright?”

Louise, still nervous and shy, slightly parted her lips and puckered them up.

“S-Stop a-asking, idiot…”

Louise, looking very shy, was so lovely at this moment, that Saito’s head started spin.

He hugged her close to him,

Louise’s mind was in a turmoil.

Aah, I am sorry ancestor-sama. Louise Françoise is about to be swept off her feet in the bitter enemy Von Zerbst's castle. When I passed through the gates, I never thought it would lead to this. I am sorry ancestor-sama, mother-sama, elder sister-sama, Chii-nee-sama – everyone – I am sorry…

The passion was so strong that her mind started to leave, fading away…

But then, with the corner of her eye, she noticed red hair moving across the corridor. Louise's reaction was blitz-quick. She kicked Saito in the groin and quickly leaped back to her feet.

“Because you were both missing for so long, I came to check up on you.”

Guiche put a hand on his chin and shook his head.

“You, what are you doing in other people's homes?”

Kirche asked, not hiding the amazement in her voice.

Louise’s mouth opened and closed few times, vaguely trying to remember any letter of the alphabet to utter. She shivered while cold sweat dripped down her skin.

“ An i-insect leeched to my neck so I tried to take it off.”

“And of course for that you needed to take off your breast cloth?”

Kirche asked with a malicious smile. Louise’s body stiffened. Slowly, she dropped on her knees and her shoulders sagged.

Meanwhile, Saito was busy twitching on the floor.

Kirche approached Louise. She placed a hand on her shoulder, mischief was dazzling from her smile.

“Had enough of your lustful antics? And I thought no one would best me.”

“T-That’s not it, it has nothing to do with lust. It kind of shifted on its own!”

Shaking her temple, Louise came off with a desperate excuse.

“It’s alright. I have a gift for you.”

“Not needed.”

“It’s a letter from Tristain.”

The party, with tensed faces, gathered in Kirche’s room.

“Extremely soon.”

“Surely, it must be because she is so very angry, that queen of your country.”

Relaxed, Kirche spread her hands and said. Louise carefully eyed the letter that Kirche passed to her. The envelope was made from high-class parchment and had Tristain’s kingdom signature placed on it. Crest of Lilies that she got used to seeing… a reply from Henrietta so soon.

In this letter, the others and my fate is engraved. How did Henrietta judge me?

Her hand trembled from the tension. Saito watched her face nervously as well. Guiche, Montmorency, and Malicorne held their breath too, watching Louise's act.

Kirche carefully said to Louise, who was still not breaking the seal,

“Hey Louise, you know about that letter. It is not necessary to return to Tristain. You can stay in my house.”

“You aren't worried about our teacher, Colbert?”

Colbert volunteered to take Louise’s and the others' place so that they could pass the border.

Afterwards, there was no news from him. Even the crew of the ''Ostland'' that arrived at Von Zerbst had no information.

“If it’s Jean, then it will be alright. Surely, he hid himself somewhere. The report will come sooner or later. But if he were caught, then I would go on another rescuing adventure.”

“No good. It would be much tougher than before.”

Then Louise took a deep breath and opened the envelope in a dash. The letter inside had just a single peace of paper. And a short sentence was written in there. Reading it, Louise started to tremble.

“W-What is it?! What’s written in there!”

Saito, who was not able to endure the tension any longer, pressed her.

“Just this much was written? And more importantly, what is written on that? Give it to me.”

Kirche took the letter from Louise’s hand.

“What, 'Henrietta will wait at the La Vallière estate.' My, isn’t that good. She will wait at your family's home. Maybe it won’t be so tough there.”

Kirche said pretending not to know. Louise’s shivering reached its peak. She just managed to utter.

“At home...”

“Why? Isn’t it good if you can speak with your family - they might protect you.”

“Far from protecting, I will be killed.”

As if giving up, Louise lowered her head.

<noinclude>
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; padding: 0.2em; border-collapse: collapse;"
|-
| Back to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Epilogue|Volume 10]]
| Return to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume11_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter1

2010-02-11T06:55:27Z

RonnieCorny:

{{Template:PREVIEW}}

===Chapter One: Von Zerbst===

Within the deep, dark woods of Germania stood Von Zerbst Castle. But even though it was called a castle, it was considerably different from the Tristanian ones.

The old stone-made building probably had a splendid history, and the repeatedly added random extensions increased its original size twofold. The architectural style was uncertain as well.
The rising top looked of ancient Tristain and Gallia, the high steeples belonged to Varon’s style, while the middle wall underwent a massive transformation under Albion’s architectural influence.

Next to the delicate Romalian brick tower stood a large Germanian citadel made of massive rocks… Thus, ignoring the looks and prestige, this building was a mess. Tristain’s and Gallia’s nobles furrowed their eyebrows upon seeing such a castle, and the respective liberty and innovation of Germania, the Country of Fire, made them frown deeply.

In this castle, within a room devoted to the cheerful and warm feeling of spring, Saito was sound asleep. Because he just took part in a big adventure, his body felt very tired.

In his deep sleep, Saito was dreaming. It was a nostalgic dream.

A dream of his hometown. A dream of Earth…

His mother was cooking in the kitchen, and he watched her from behind.

“Mother, what are you making?”

“Your favorite - hamburger steak.”

For some reason, such a casual conversation pierced hard through his chest. His mother turned around. Her familiar face. The same gentle, calm face of his mother...

“Saito, you, why are you crying?”

“Huh?”

Saito rubbed his eyes. They were full of tears.

“Such a strange child.”

Said the smiling face of his mother as it changed into the face of Tabitha’s mother. Surprised, Saito let out a cry.

“Uwaa!”

Saito woke up from his yell.

“A dream…”

It was already the second dream of his mother. Being so far away, it was a wonder he could recall her face at all.

Saito rose from bed and looked out of the window. The sun has already gone halfway. The bed next to him, where Malicorne and Guiche should have been sleeping, was empty. No one had slept in it for some time.

Saito dressed and turned to leave the room…

“Saito.”

Louise stood in the doorway.

“Oh, Louise. Good morning.”

For some reason, Louise shyly casted her eyes down when Saito greeted her.

“Lunch has been prepared. Everyone is waiting.”

“You should have woken me up then.”

“I tried. But you would not wake up.”

“I-I see. Sorry.”

Saito said looking away. He became embarrassed remembering the dream. It may have been a journey deep in the dream world, but the dream of his mother was strangely embarrassing.

Both Tabitha and her mother were saved from Gallia‘s old castle five days ago. Last night, they arrived at Kirche‘s family's, the Von Zerbst, residence in Germania. Louise and Saito, Kirche, Guiche and Montmorency, Malicorne, Tabitha and her mother; overall - eight people and Sylphid managed to safely cross the border.

Gallian military, after learning that Tabitha and her mother went missing, placed checkpoints along the highway, checking passing travelers, but on every such point Sylphid would transform and Guiche would cast a spell pretending to be an important person, thus fooling the check.

Because the local Gallian army has fallen into disorder, it was easy to escape the line. The morale of local soldiers who stood in the check was low. Some soldiers would not even do a proper check on carriages, before mumbling the unmotivated "Go." The Kingdom of Gallia apparently did not care about prefectures too much, often excluding the army‘s direct control.

The best troops were placed on the border with Germania. Calling themselves the Knights of Roses, were a squad of elite knights placed there.

The party was nervous.

When they thoroughly rummaged the carriage, they found the disguised Tabitha.

Make-up was wiped from the face of the sleeping Tabitha,

“This girl…”

It was the young leader of the knights, who introduced himself as Castelmorr.

That moment, Kirche grasped her wand and Saieto pulhledt out his sword.

However, Castelmorr got out of the carriage and loudly proclaimed,

“All clear! You may pass!”

Border passage was permitted. When the carriage crossed the border, they sent their expression of gratitude to the splendid knight. He, who should have captured Tabitha, Saito, and others, had let them go.

When Tabitha woke up and they told her about the incident, she just calmly said “I see.”

“Even though he was not an ally, he was not an enemy either. I was relieved.”

Saito recalled the conversation upon crossing the national border and nodded.

“Tabitha?”

“She is asleep in the room over there.”

Louise, from the room prepared for them, pointed to the door across the corridor in front of them. Saito nodded and slightly pushed the door. It was not locked. Making a slight sound, the door opened.

From the opening, Saito glanced into the room.

Mother and child, hugging each other tight, were sleeping soundly on the big bed.

They were saved by Saito and others, Tabitha and her mother were.

“Anyway, they are finally safe.”

Louise, who stood by his side, nodded.

“Oh well. Besides, this is Germania… Gallia can’t do much here.”

Saito nodded and, feeling uneasy, asked,

“Hey, yesterday, when you sent the letter…”

Last night, Louise sent a letter addressed to Henrietta in Tristain by owl. It was filled with Louise’s lengthy apologies.

First, it began with a report that Tabitha had been rescued safely, followed by an apology for crossing the border without permission; secondly, a statement of her willingness to take any punishment needed and the hope to return within three days' time.

“You didn't write about my arrest, did you?”

Though he watched closely as Louise wrote the letter, because he did not understand the characters, he could not understand the content that was written. Louise would not take his crimes for herself, would she? He thought, and asked tentatively.

“Not really.”

Louise responded with a calm face.

Saito looked deeply into Louise’s eyes for a while. They were filled with little shining sparkles.

“Really? Aren’t you lying this way? It all started because of me; thus, it is me who should bear the responsibility…”

For a moment, Louise’s sparkling eyes lost their light as she fixed her sight on Saito.

“If you are caught, then you won’t be able to return…”

“Hey! That’s true, but…I am responsible as a sub-commander of the Knight Corps…”

Saito changed recently. When he was talking about "responsibility" or "what he can do in this world," it all was making Louise perplexed. Didn’t he want to return to his world?

“Yeah, yeah. That story is already over. Let’s go, everyone is waiting.”

Saito, before turning to leave, peeked one last time as Tabitha snuggled closer to her mother. Then… something deep in his heart became strangely numb.

“What’s wrong?”

“N-Nothing.”

Saito and Louise left the mother and child asleep, and went to everyone who had been waiting in the dinning room.

While in the corridor, seeing the Von Zerbst castle’s furniture, Louise started complaining,

“Pshh, it’s the first time I have seen a residence with such a bad taste.”

Even so, Saito did not know a thing about the quality of the furniture’s in Halkeginia’s castle anyway. Well, it had a lot of Tristain statues and paintings lined up.

“Making this corridor in the manner of Tristain and then for some reason placing these paintings from the east in. Meaningless. Or perhaps rather than stressing over the eastern paintings, I should be more mad about the mimicry of Tristain to begin with. Either way it’s retarded.”

Louise pointed at the image of a God with many arms. For a moment it looked like a statue of the goddess of mercy with one thousand hands that Saito saw during a school excursion. Apparently, Louise could not forgive such casual decorating manner in using the furniture of her hometown.

“Look, this is Giovanni Lascault’s religious painting. It’s tint completely mismatches the color of the wall. Ugh, these upstart nobles of Germania…”

As Louise continued fuming about, Saito said in an embarrassed voice,

“Umm, Louise.”

“Huh?”

“Walls, statues, paintings – they all are alright… But this… Look of yours…”

“What’s wrong with my look?”

''Tsun'' – Louise turned around to face him and asked.

“…You didn't take your dancer costume off?”

Underneath the mantle Louise was still wearing the same oriental dancer clothes that she wore while saving Tabitha.

With all its worth, these clothes were designed only to conceal the most pivotal points, and it was embarrassing, whatever exposed place he guided his eyes on.

“Reluctantly so. It's the only clothing I have to wear.”

For some reason, when Louise said that, her voice sounded triumphant.

“Argh! Put on the clothes you wore before changing to it – the Academy of Magic school uniform!”

“That? It’s dirty, so out of the question. I won’t put it on.”

“This is dirty in a different way! There!”

Saito shouted while turning his eyes away from Louise. Seeing her like that was making him feel nervous.

“That, isn’t it Kirche’s family house? That sort of attire is very suitable for Kirche's family as it seems from the eyes of the servants.”

Just then, a young female employee, wrapped in a showy red clothes, happened to pass by.

Louise calmly hid her body behind the mantle. Indeed, this way, Louise's slender limbs were completely hidden.

“Hey, she can’t see you that way!”

Once the employee passed, while giving a quick bow, ''swish'' - Louise provocatively swung the edge of her mantle, exposing the silky skin of her thigh. A teasing smile formed on her pink lips.

[[Image:ZnT11-021.jpg|thumb]]

''Swish-swish'' More of Louise’s white skin caught Saito’s eyes, making him color up and turn his face away.

“S-Stop it… Your mantle fluttering like that…”

This made Louise’s face deeply blush, yet she continued to stare at him.

“Why?”

“W-Why, well, you, uh, looking like that…”

“Looking like what?”

“Skin and stuff…”

“Are you stuuuupid? Are you excited just by looking at your master’s body? Unbelievable! How vulgar! You should die. In the forest.”

Blushing, Louise declared.

“Do you have any sense of shame?!”

“S-Shame for what! There’s nothing wrong with being seen by a familiar!”

Flurried Louise countered.

Firstly, in the carriage, Saito’s feverish gaze when he looked at her dancer’s clothing, was very amusing. But as if showing was not satisfying enough, she went up with the whole provocative ending.

However, trying to act calm was extremely embarrassing. ''What the heck was I thinking about – after everyone fell asleep,'' Louise raged wiggling in her blanket. She raged and raged, continuing to worry and worry more.

What would God think, seeing her present act?

Not just God, but Chii-nee-sama too?

While thinking so, cheeks burning from shame, Louise cursed herself.

While within the carriage, her distress continued… Louise pondered.

Though it was shameful to death, it also felt good.

''Aah, his gaze, solely focused on me and not on the other girls — that felt really good. By all means, I should wear these dancing clothes more. It was embarrassing, but this strange feeling of triumph was stronger than the feeling of shame.''

“Stop scrutinizing so much. Anyway, there's no ulterior motive and no deeper meaning to this. I’m just wearing what I want to wear.”

Louise said in an angry voice. Though in truth it made her feel wonderful and glad, it would make her very furious if that was recognized; though she could not say why it would make her mad. With such contradictions struggling within her heart, Louise continued to speak.

“Stop looking so intensively at me. Haah, what’s a life-form not given by birth? You.”

Naturally, Saito’s pride was severely damaged by such words. Saito turned his neck to the other side, thus completely averting the glance from Louise.

“Who's looking?”

The two walked silently for a while. Eventually, missing his gaze, Louise started to loose her temper. It is so trivial.

Finding the mirror put on the wall, Louise halted in front of it.

“Who is this cute girl?”

“Hey, move on.”

“I think that’s me.”

“Yeah yeah.”

Saito kept his head turned to the other side. Louise was growing increasingly angry. In her mind she started repeating strings of angry words. ''Loveyouhesaidloveyouhesailoveyouhesaid''.

''Whyishepretendingnottoseewhyishepretendingnottoseewhyishepretendingnottoseelooklooklookgettingangrylook''.

Irritated, Louise went for her secret trump. She placed her delicate finger on her cheek.

“I wonder.”

“H-Hey, let's go.”

Nervous, Saito urged Louise. As always, he was looking at the opposite direction. ''Kaaaaan'' – a lot of blood went up to Louise’s head. I’m acting so cute, I’m acting so cute and yet... Can’t let that happen. Pride soared high in Louise, like from the blood that ran up to her head. Result: Louise’s temperament broke loose.

“B, B-B-B, B-B...”

“B? What about it?”

“B, B-B-B-B-B, my breast cloth, i, i-i-i, i-i, if I remove it, w-w, wonder how I would look. Sex appeal increases cuteness, no doubt.”

“HAAH?!”

“There’s no doubt. Sex appeal easily attracts my familiar.”

Saito, determined not to lose, stood his ground. It was like this in his head – looking at Louise now would mean her victory and his defeat. Thus, with his right hand he pinched himself, desperately fighting against the overwhelming desire "to look."

“Then the b-b-breast cloth w-w-w-will go.”

“How long will you hesitate? E-Everyone will see you if you wait.”

“Hey you!”

“Pshh.”

“I won’t hesitate.”

Saito applied more power to the finger digging into his thigh. From the pain, cold sweat flowed. Seriously, flowed.
However, he won’t look. A man decided not to look; so, he won’t look.

Louise gave a lot of care to the cloth which covered her chest. "Move," but the hand won’t move even if ordered. It was shameful. No, shame was not the only thing. Death. Her head will explode and she will die from shame.

And then it changes again. Though she returned her noble position to Her Majesty, her noble pride was still there. By all means. It is necessarily for a master to make a familiar to turn his eyes on her, so that there would be no regrets left.

Even though she is confused, because blood went up her head, Louise didn't notice such thing. Her pride was driving her insane.

“Waah!”

With a shout she lowered her breast cloth.

Saito was surprised. Even if he was not surprised, the moment when Louise shouted, his head moved on its own, disregarding his intentions. And thus, his head graciously turned to Louise.

The first thing Saito’s eyes jumped on was the pulled down the fabric of the dancing costume, covering the breasts, Louise’s slender fingers covering the exposed top of her breasts… which looked rather plain.

Saito, at the reflection speed of the insect level, jumped at Louise. And clung close to her.

“Sorry, can’t help it.”

Recovered from her daze, Louise gripped the back of Saito’s head and tried to pull him off.　

“W-Wait a minute… stop! W-W-W-What are you thinking…?”

Then she saw Saito’s feverish eyes. W-What a look. Such a crazy passion that she, she…contrary to her will, Louise closed her eyes.

“W-We… are very likely to be imprisoned when returning back to Tristain, right?”

“…R-Right.”

Then a painful thought pierced Louise's mind. If… she will be put into prison for all this…

Then she would not be able to meet Saito for a while.

“…then if so, maybe it’s the only time we can be alone as a couple?”

After those words…this time spent held firmly in Saito’s arms felt irreplaceable. These thoughts, and Saito’s passionate look, deprived the last remains of the strength from her resisting hand.

“I-Is it alright?”

Louise, still nervous and shy, slightly parted her lips and puckered them up.

“S-Stop a-asking, idiot…”

Louise, looking very shy, was so lovely at this moment, that Saito’s head started spin.

He hugged her close to him,

Louise’s mind was in a turmoil.

Aah, I am sorry ancestor-sama. Louise Françoise is about to be swept off her feet in the bitter enemy Von Zerbst's castle. When I passed through the gates, I never thought it would lead to this. I am sorry ancestor-sama, mother-sama, elder sister-sama, Chii-nee-sama – everyone – I am sorry…

The passion was so strong that her mind started to leave, fading away…

But then, with the corner of her eye, she noticed red hair moving across the corridor. Louise's reaction was blitz-quick. She kicked Saito in the groin and quickly leaped back to her feet.

“Because you were both missing for so long, I came to check up on you.”

Guiche put a hand on his chin and shook his head.

“You, what are you doing in other people's homes?”

Kirche asked, not hiding the amazement in her voice.

Louise’s mouth opened and closed few times, vaguely trying to remember any letter of the alphabet to utter. She shivered while cold sweat dripped down her skin.

“ An i-insect leeched to my neck so I tried to take it off.”

“And of course for that you needed to take off your breast cloth?”

Kirche asked with a malicious smile. Louise’s body stiffened. Slowly, she dropped on her knees and her shoulders sagged.

Meanwhile, Saito was busy twitching on the floor.

Kirche approached Louise. She placed a hand on her shoulder, mischief was dazzling from her smile.

“Had enough of your lustful antics? And I thought no one would best me.”

“T-That’s not it, it has nothing to do with lust. It kind of shifted on its own!”

Shaking her temple, Louise came off with a desperate excuse.

“It’s alright. I have a gift for you.”

“Not needed.”

“It’s a letter from Tristain.”

The party, with tensed faces, gathered in Kirche’s room.

“Extremely soon.”

“Surely, it must be because she is so very angry, that queen of your country.”

Relaxed, Kirche spread her hands and said. Louise carefully eyed the letter that Kirche passed to her. The envelope was made from high-class parchment and had Tristain’s kingdom signature placed on it. Crest of Lilies that she got used to seeing… a reply from Henrietta so soon.

In this letter, the others and my fate is engraved. How did Henrietta judge me?

Her hand trembled from the tension. Saito watched her face nervously as well. Guiche, Montmorency, and Malicorne held their breath too, watching Louise's act.

Kirche carefully said to Louise, who was still not breaking the seal,

“Hey Louise, you know about that letter. It is not necessary to return to Tristain. You can stay in my house.”

“You aren't worried about our teacher, Colbert?”

Colbert volunteered to take Louise’s and the others' place so that they could pass the border.

Afterwards, there was no news from him. Even the crew of the ''Ostland'' that arrived at Von Zerbst had no information.

“If it’s Jean, then it will be alright. Surely, he hid himself somewhere. The report will come sooner or later. But if he were caught, then I would go on another rescuing adventure.”

“No good. It would be much tougher than before.”

Then Louise took a deep breath and opened the envelope in a dash. The letter inside had just a single peace of paper. And a short sentence was written in there. Reading it, Louise started to tremble.

“W-What is it?! What’s written in there!”

Saito, who was not able to endure the tension any longer, pressed her.

“Just this much was written? And more importantly, what is written on that? Give it to me.”

Kirche took the letter from Louise’s hand.

“What, 'Henrietta will wait at the La Vallière estate.' My, isn’t that good. She will wait at your family's home. Maybe it won’t be so tough there.”

Kirche said pretending not to know. Louise’s shivering reached its peak. She just managed to utter.

“At home...”

“Why? Isn’t it good if you can speak with your family - they might protect you.”

“Far from protecting, I will be killed.”

As if giving up, Louise lowered her head.

<noinclude>
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| Back to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume10_Epilogue|Volume 10]]
| Return to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume11_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Zero no Tsukaima:Volume11 Chapter3

2010-02-11T02:01:04Z

RonnieCorny: if my memory is correct, the name of the current Manticore Commander was mentioned in Vol10 as De Cesaire.

{{Template:PREVIEW}}

===Chapter Three: Karin the Heavy Wind===

It was the morning of the second day since leaving Tristain when the Queen's carriage crossed the drawbridge of the La Vallière residence. Since it was a low-profile visit, other than Agnes and Colbert, there were only five musketeers guarding the wagon.

As the party passed the bridge and gates, the servants who gathered there rejoiced. The flagpole in the front yard had the Lilies emblem, the arms of the Tristanian royal family, on it. A small courtesy for the incognito queen.

When Agnes got off the horse, she opened the door of the carriage.

The armor of a magic knight was seen in the center of the stairs that continued to the castle. Agnes squinted at it.

“What’s the matter, commander?”

Then Henrietta saw the knight who stood at the center of the stairs, and gasped in surprise.

“That’s the armor of the Manticore Corps.”

Indeed, the armor had the big black mantel with the Manticore Corps' emblem sewn on it.

“But the Manticore Corps works at the castle now. Besides, that shuttlecock decoration… That hat belongs to a commander.”

“But the body is too thin to be De Cesaire.”

“Perhaps it’s not his to begin with.”

The knight slowly went down stairs. Musketeers, surrounding the Queen, watched the figure intensely with their hands on their guns.

Then Agnes took one step forth and blocked the knight’s path. The lower half of his face, under the knight's hat decorated with shuttlecock, was covered with an iron mask. Feeling intense pressure for the moment, Agnes grasped the handle of her sword.

“Are you a friend of Duke de La Valliere? To go out to meet Her Majesty like this - it’s too much even for a prank. Introduce yourself.”

However, the knight ignored Agnes's words, and knelt down on one knee in respect.

“It's been a long time, Your Majesty. However, you will surely not remember me, because it has been good 30 years since the last time I served the castle.”

“Umm…”

Henrietta, with an open-jaw, looked at the knight. Indeed, though the mantle's colors faded a lot over the years, it was still nicely kept - neither stain nor tear could be found.

“I am Karin, the former commander of the Manticore corps. However, even though I introduced myself with a different name back then, my loyalty for the royal family has not changed.”

Henrietta had heard about the former commander of Manticore Corps, so her face turned pale.

“Then, you are Karin the Heavy Wind?!”

“Yes, I am honored that you know the name.”

“Of course I know – you are infamous! Agnes, this is Karin the Heavy Wind, the legendary magic knight commander! I grew up hearing about her heroic adventures!”

Henrietta had the face of a starry-eyed little girl as she took Karin’s hand.

“I had yearned to meet you so much since childhood! Fire dragon extermination! Rescue of a city attacked by orcs… Gorgeous use of weapons! Presence massive as a mountain! Ages when nobles were still noble, and true knights. A lot of knights respect you and try to be just like you!”

“It’s embarrassing.”

“What would you say?! I-I know all your adventures by memory! You are a woman, right? After you retired, though, I heard that you disappeared like the wind, but you were with La Vallières. What are you doing now?”

Karin removed her mask abruptly. Seeing her face, Henrietta’s eyes almost popped from their sockets.

“Duchess! You are the Duchess!”

Agnes was surprised too.

“Then, this…”

“In other words, I am the Duchess de La Vallière – the mother of Louise…”

“I took the opportunity to marry and took off my armor. But it is a long story since that time, so please pardon me.”

“I understand, but why…”

Henrietta wanted to ask why she now wore the armor that she previously took off.

Karin stood up straight.

“For today, I am not the Duchess Karin. I am Karin, the former commander of the Manticore Corps, who respects the rule of steel. And I will punish that law breaking daughter of mine. This will be the proof of my loyalty to Your Majesty and family.”

“Punishment?! Heavy Wind’s punishment on Louise?!”

Henrietta watched Karin in deep shock, shaking her head. Her face turned pale. She came here with the intention to punish Louise, so her feelings withered for a moment. But this person would give a much more severe punishment than she herself intended to. Should the punishment be dealt, Louise would die for sure!

“You should not be violent! I came here to deal with Louise’s punishment myself. Because I am young, at first I was resented. However, I thought about it a lot. Though Louise passed national borders certainly without my permission… I am also worried about it as a friend too. Just a strong reprimand will do, I do not intend to give a violent penalty.”

“Your Majesty, your words are kind, and you feel regretful. However, Your Majesty's royal prerogative is of the sacred nonaggression given by the Founder. Thus, you have to protect the laws of the country promulgated in that name, too.”

Karin quickly raised her right hand. From the shade of the castle, a huge, black shadow flew. A strong dust storm rose as it touched the ground.

It was an old and huge mythical beast, the Manticore.

“If the laws of the country that should be respected are neglected, Your Majesty should keep her royal principles. But because the law-breaker is my own daughter, I cannot forgive it all the more.”

Karin effortlessly flew up fifty meters and straddled the manticore.

“K-Karin-dono!”

The Manticore flapped its huge wings. And, with amazing speed, the mythical beast flew up to the sky with its master.

La Vallière's castle is closer to the border of Germania than the capital. After passing the nation's borders at three o'clock, they could already see the high steeples of the castle.

“H-Hey Louise… Your mother is really the Heavy Wind of the Manticore Corps?”

Saito opened his mouth, breaking the heavy silence. However, Louise did not say a thing. Those days, Louise passed her time trembling and staring at the ceiling.

“As good as thirty years passed, maybe she's changed? Nah? It is not unreasonable that the scary knight of the past mellowed out over the years. Even if you say punishment, I think you will be just grounded, at most.”

“…You don’t understand.”

Louise said in the voice of someone at her own execution.

“Violence is part of youth, no human can keep it steady forever,”

Montmorency rationalized.

“…You just don’t understand.”

“Don't worry so much.”

“…Saying so plainly, my mother. That person…”

After those words, everyone in the wagon felt nervous. It became impossible for Saito to bear the tension, and he laughed aloud. Mere bravado.

“Ahahaha! Worrying this much!”

“Really! Even if she was the legendary Heavy Wind, she may just be a Duchess now! Refined by society, she may have completely forgotten the dust and dirt of the battlefield!”

At that time, Tabitha pointed to the window,

“A manticore-riding knight.”

Louise suddenly sprung to her feet, and as if overtaken by panic, broke the window of the carriage and flew outside.

Gooooooooooooooooo!
　
A huge tornado appeared and followed Louise’s tracks.

“W-What’s that?!”

The moment when Saito was dumb-founded… the tornado enlarged and hit the entire carriage with enormous power. The violent power blew off the harness that tied horses to the wagon and sucked it and the horses in, lifting them up into the sky.

“What’s thaaaaaaaaaaaaaat!”

Saito shouted.

“Giyaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!”

Guiche screamed.

“Uwaaaaaaaaaaaa!”

Malicorne bellowed.

“Nooooooooooooooooooooo!”

Montmorency cried.

“I give uuuup…”

Kirche complained.

“…”

Tabitha was silent.

It was as if a huge hand made of wind grabbed the carriage and lifted it up. Six people in the wagon were shaken like a cocktail in a shaker.

“Aii! Dee! Giyaaa!”

The six screaming people were hitting walls, seats, and each other. Then the tornado stopped abruptly and the wagon fell to the ground.

“Falling! Falling! Falling!”

''Is this how it feels to be in a lift that had its cable cut?'' Saito had a thought dumbly as the carriage was casually floated in the air.

The knight had placed the “Levitation” spell on them.

Though the wagon slowly landed, the party was lying scattered and worn out inside the carriage.
　
Saito desperately thinking, crawled out of the wagon. Louise was lying shaking on the ground.

“Lou-i-se!”

Though he tried to shout and run up to her, but he could not move well.

Riding atop a huge manticore, the knight wearing a black mantle appeared. That must be Louise’s mama. However, she was frightening. Standing there, it looked like “stern” was the character of this knight and that “fear” was deeply em-blazed in this armored doll-like figure.

Then she stopped at the fallen Louise and called out her daughter.

“Get up, Louise.”

Louise raised herself.

“Mother-sama…”

She was shaking violently as if suffering from a strong cold. Like a small dog threatened by a big German shepherd. Though Louise could be scary when she is angry too, this had a completely different feeling to it – it was like comparing bear to a rat.

“You. Report what you have broken to your mother.”

“That…b-border without permission, umm…”

“I cannot hear you.”

“B-Border crossing without permission.”

The tornado flew. It caught Louise and threw her two hundred meters up into the sky, and once she started falling down, the wind started spinning her around like a tiny fallen leaf.

“Is this what your mother taught you?”

Her pink hair was disheveled and her skirt was blown off somewhere, revealing her underwear in their full glory, but it was not the place for Louise to feel shy about it.

“I-I’m sorry for breaking the laws of the country! But there were excruciating circumstances!”

The knight extended the wand.

“Your little good deeds do not matter much in this respect. Whatever the circumstances are, the law has been broken. As a result, it can make a lot more people unhappy.”

The storm blew hard against Louise.

Not able to look at this anymore, Saito ran up to stand in front of Louise.

“P-Please stop!”

“And you are?”

Wearing black mantle, her lower half of the face hidden behind the mask, Karin asked Saito.

“Well…umm, Louise’s familiar.”

“Aah!”

Karin nodded.

“You were the boy accompanying Louise the other day. So, you were a familiar.”

Saito then knelt on the ground and took Louise in his arms, trying to wake her up.

“Hey! Are you alright? Are you alive?”

“Fhn… mou, no…fhn”

Louise’s eyes were still spinning and she looked out of shape. It hardly could be otherwise. It was like she was thrown into a huge washing machine– washed, rinsed, dried and blown. Even the prettiest girl in the country would look a mess after such ride.

Karin set up the wand again.

“W-Wait! Can’t you stop for now! Louise is already worn-out!”

Seeing Saito acting like this, Guiche called out.

“Stop it, Saito. It’s the problem between family members. Are you tired of living?”

Karin quietly watched Saito.

“A familiar is their master’s shield. For that reason, the shield needs to be blown off. No hard feelings I hope?”

A huge tornado appeared behind Karin. It was almost on the same size as the one that blew the wagon. Saito grasped Derflinger. The runes on his left hand started to shine.

[[Image:ZnT11-059.jpg|thumb]]

“Hey Derf.”

“What?”

“Is it bad?”

Saito pointed at the huge tornado.

“It is bad. It isn’t just a wild tornado. The layer of the vacuum narrows around it and will cut deeply if touched. Frightening square spelling…”

There was no time to hear the explanation.

It leaped right at him and Saito, aiming the sword forward, received it at once.

“Stop! Run away!”

Though Derflinger shouted, there was no time. Long, deep cuts, as if done by innumerable sharp razors, appeared all over Saito’s body.

“H-Huuuuuuuuurts!”

“Told you so! This fellow is a ‘Cutter Tornado!’ Before I can inhale it, you will be cut to pieces!”

Though Saito was soaking with blood, he did not move an inch.

Confused and paralyzed with fear, Louise’s eyes caught the sight of wounded Saito. In an instant, the mind that was dyed with the pure white of fear a few moments ago now blazed with anger like a raging fire.

Normally, Louise would never rebel against her mother. She grew up disciplined like that.

Without thinking, Louise lifted her wand and recited the "Void" spell.

Once the sounds of uttering spell reached Karin’s ears, she slightly puckered up her brows. She never heard of such spell. It was not fire. Not water. Nor wind. It wasn’t even an earth spell.

Louise rejected the wand and lowered it. The rampaging "Cutter Tornado," that engulfed Saito, started to shine.

Not used to such light, Karin flinched for a split of the second.

What on earth was that spell, which her daughter cast?

Though the preparation time was short, it was still strong enough to cancel her own spell.

Louise’s "Dispel Magic" made her mother’s "Cutter Tornado" vanish…

When Karen finally recovered from the shock and started to utter an incantation again, something pressed against her back.

“Please stop it! That’s enough! Please stop!”

It was Henrietta who rode with the horse all the way from La Vallière castle. Agnes was right behind her.

“I won’t tolerate any more fights in front of me! Moreover, you are a parent and a child! If you want to continue, you’ll have to turn your wand against me!”

Following the queen’s words, Karin put down the wand. Louise and Saito, who already reached the limit of their physical strength and energy, both crumbled to the ground.

Henrietta ran up to the fallen Saito.

“You are badly injured!”

Panicking, she started to recite the water magic spell. Saito's injuries were healed by queen’s "Healing." Saito lifted up his bloody face.

“Princess-sama…”

“Don’t talk! You are badly hurt!”

Henrietta recited another water magic in succession.

“Louise…”

Henrietta's cheek trembled.

“It’s alright – she is safe. Her friend is looking after her.”

It was Montmorency who left the wagon and now was tending Louise.

“I see…” muttered Saito and fainted.

Next to the tending Henrietta Karin knelt down

“Your Majesty, I punished my sinful daughter. Hope you will show greater punishment than mine.”

Henrietta let out a long sigh.

“Mo! What is that! You! When child and parent point their wands at each other – it makes Founder Brimir grieve! Didn’t I tell that I did not intend to give any punishment since the very beginning!”

“Solving everything with wands - is the way of old nobles.”

“Unnecessarily bloodshed is what I hate the most! You there! Fast, carry these two injured people to the residence!”

Following Henrietta's orders, Guiche and others put "Levitation" on Louise and Saito and started to carry them to the castle.

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|-
| Back to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume11_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
| Return to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume11_Chapter4|Chapter 4]]
|-
|}

Toradora!:Spin-Off 2 Fall Fattened Tiger Chapter 1

2010-02-07T12:02:32Z

RonnieCorny:

<noinclude>==Fall-Fattened Tiger==</noinclude>
===Chapter 1===

[[Image:Toradora_Spin-Off_2_011.jpg|thumb]]
Takasu Ryuuji remembered.

Come to think of it, it might be that in the beginning, her appetite for food was what brought them together.

"Hmm...."

It wasn't friendship, nor love, yet could he remember correctly just how this strange, family-like relationship, solid yet complex, came to be? It was ...

"Hmmm......"

... to be precise, perhaps, fried rice. Indeed, it was fried rice. It started with that unforgettable but awful night, and then feeding her fried rice at three in the morning.

"Hmmmm......."

"Hey, that's enough. It’s fresh food, if you keep it in your hand like that it’s going to go bad, and the other customers will be annoyed at you."

"Shut up!"

Overwhelmed, he sadly kept quiet. Though he had a strong reply on my lips, he thought that perhaps it would be better to hold his tongue. "Shhhh!" Huffing through her bared fangs, Aisaka Taiga again... "Hmm......" ...swallowing her anguish.

In that small right hand there was a chunk of pork shoulder roast. In the left hand a pork-loin block. ''Shoulder roast if we make homemade [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Char_siu ''chashu''] (and, make simple curry with the broth), pork-loin if we cook trotter for Japanese style [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kakuni ''kakuni''], so WHICH ONE!!?'' Forced by Ryuuji to decide, Taiga was looking over the pork on the meat counter, slowly freaking out.

Light and fluffy waves of hair reaching her waist, transparent milky-white skin, she had a refined beauty like a French doll. Short for a second-year high school student, the whorl in her hair didn’t quite reach Ryuuji’s chest. Combined with a petite build, Taiga was rather cute today. With those big chunks of meat in both hands, thinking about what to do with that simple mind, "I would just as soon eat both...", Taiga is a beautiful girl, of course.

An exceptionally beautiful girl, and...

"Ummm......Ahhh......! I give up, I can't decide! Ryuuji, it's your choice! Because you’re making it, and are a better judge with that pig-nose sniffer working, you choose delicious things! Now do it!"

...rather bossy.

"Who has a pig-nose!? No way. Well then, cheaper it will be. Today roast, we'll make ''chashu''. It's decided."

".....!?"

"What? What’s up? You’ll make ''kakuni'' of course? In that case make them separately,"

"....!"

“What’s up, seriously? Doesn't roast sound good? Sounds good to me! Good, it’s decided. Let’s go."

Comparing the cuts of meat in both hands, not wanting to let them go, Taiga finally shouted "Hya!" and closing her eyes, she returned the pork loin block to the meat counter. At that, Ryuuji dropped the chunk of roast into the basket.

" … ’Hya!’ … ?"

"Let’s leave already, let’s go quickly, we’re done. If you stay here you’ll get lost again! I’m starving, so I hope you don’t take forever cooking! Go for ''chashu''! After that, what will have for sides?! Potato salad or macaroni salad would be good!"

Yanking the edge of Ryuuji’s basket, Taiga left the meat section with her eyes looking rather desperate. … Leaving still rather regretfully, at the last moment looking back to where the pork loin was. Ryuuji was by now a little exasperated.

"You’re really something, saying you’re hungry lately, pretending it isn’t just greed, eh?"

"Dirty!? That's really cheeky! What can be said about this lowly, vulgar, taxing, bumpkin, this pig-dog block of rotten meat!"

''--- Wasn't that a bit abusive?''

Before he could reply, she gave Ryuuji a deep poke in both eyes.

"My eyes, my eyes!"

"You’re a bad person; you should repent. Ha! What's with the drama, you completely disagreeable rascal? Hold on, aren’t you embarrassed? People are watching."

She poked him in the eye up to the second joint!… Scary… Those public high-school uniforms over there!… and so on, women look away… everybody averted their gaze, even with his eyes closed it must certainly have hurt. Ryuuji was in the middle of the store aisle, in pain, a figure in school uniform with his eyes pushed in, crouching, unable to get up. It hurt, it didn’t hurt, it hurt to death.

Arms crossed in ''zama'' style, Taiga sneered down at him in contempt. A most evil, violent, tyrannical, brutal and strong wild beast --- indeed, she was also known as the ”Palmtop Tiger”. That she is known by that name probably bothers the tigers.

"You really complain. Well, OK. Because of my super good pure and gentle heart, I’ll gather and bring up the purchases for you. I got so hungry during your little show that I got rather anti-social. … Whatever else, you’re sure a lucky guy, what with me helping you out with the shopping. Shouldn’t you be grateful? Don’t you see? But that’s okay, because I feel I should, from now on I am going to help you as much as I possibly can."

''Hmph. So she says.''

''… Come down ''now'', fire and brimstone!''

Ryyuji’s scary eyes glittered like crazy, glaring at Taiga as if they were about to spout blood. Incidentally, his eyes were simply bad genes, and his eyes were red only because they had just been poked badly. Unfortunately, since he didn’t actually have demons in the family, he couldn’t curse anybody. At that very instant,

"Gyaa!"

Taiga fell on her rear. Everything in the aisle within one meter in front of her went flying. Of course, it wasn’t divine punishment. It was simply Taiga’s clumsiness. Ryuuji’s resentment was forgotten in a hurry, drawing near and reaching out to Taiga,

"Oh, are you OK?"

"… wha… eh! From that shock now I know! Today we will make ''kakuni'' of course!"

"… is, is that so?"

Taiga’s greed was showing again.

In the basket she replaced the shoulder roast with the pork loin, added the ingredients for macaroni salad, milk, eggs for making tomorrow’s lunch, ham, spinach and some cheap pasta. And now her eyes rested upon some kinds of seasonal mushrooms. Thicker mushrooms are cheaper, but these ones,

"Oh, these [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shimeji ''shimeji'']…! These [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grifola_frondosa ''maitake'']! Such huge [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiitake ''shiitake'']! The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pleurotus_eryngii trumpet mushrooms] are big too! Look at this fine ''bunapii'' root… of course it tastes like fall! Let’s make mushroom sauce!"

By the mushroom counter, Ryuuji, pain in his eyes forgotten, almost leaping for joy, began fishing. Taiga’s eyes also glittered while she brought out her hands,

"Truly delicious! As usual, seasonal stuff is the best! Ryuuji, this one too, this one too!"

"Oh, that too, that too! Eh? What’s that!?"

In her hand was a wooden box of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matsutake ''matsutake'']. Quickly taking it from Taiga’s hand, he quietly and unobtrusively put it back on it the counter.

Indeed, the season was fall. Here and there in the supermarket plastic maple-tree ornaments were installed; over by the fish-counter housewives gathered for fresh [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saury ''saury'']. Incidentally, with regards to the Takasu family, ''saury'' was last night’s feast. Sizzling crispy broiled skin, body covered with thick fat, drizzled in soy sauce, with plenty of grated radish and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sudachi ''sudachi''] too…

"... Chestnut rice… and mushroom curry perhaps ... !"

"...Waa...!"

Ryuuji filled a bag with nice round chestnuts, then was attracted, as if in a dream, to the long line for ''saury''. Taiga was hypnotized by it too, and followed. And, lined up in a row next to the chestnuts on display, big bunches of white grapes, their sweet smell a torment.

"Uwaa... looks good! I rather like that, grapes… man, why does fall have so many yummy things!?"

"I really love grapes too! Well, shall we buy some!? … It can be dessert!"

"Eh, eh, eh… no… way! Seven hundred eighty yen, that’s still expensive!"

Grabbing only chestnuts, Ryuuji escaped, pulling his eyes away from the grapes. Such is fall, when speaking of fall cravings. Taiga’s appetite is a strange thing, seeming a base greed, a awful spirit, but it is not. For myself too, and everybody else is pretty much the same.

Speaking of the fall harvest, seasonal things are naturally delicious (amongst other things), and your body, done in by the summer heat, finally gets back into condition and begins to want wholesome energy.

That is what they call fall. Horses also get fat, you might say.

"OK, let’s pay the bill. Since it’s crowded, just wait by the exit!"

"OK!"

Once Taiga had left, Ryuuji got in the line for the cash register, mixed in with the housewives. On top of the basket was a tote bag, so he indicated that he didn’t need a bag from the register. To this point, there was completely no hesitation in his manner.

With his fatherless upbringing, Ryuuji’s housekeeping experience is no less than five years, even though he’s only in his second-year in high school. Since this last spring, acting as a real mother for another person, had only increased his abilities. And from the first, that person with the evil bloodshot eyes tolerated the eating and eye-poking.

"Welcome! Do you have a point-card?"

"Yes, I have one."

"Well... kyaa!"

"..."

The cashier yelped --- just once: women are getting better these days. Choosing the seasonal ingredients is fun and all, but besides cooking, general housework is what Ryuuji loves. He doesn’t think a little bit of shopping is a problem. Thinking about menus, thinking about nutrition, thinking about which season it is while comparing this and that, making decisions. More than some clumsy game, the abuse Ryuuji received was an impressive spectacle.

Carrying his basket filled with things for cooking, with a good-humored look on his face, he looked around for Taiga.

"…Ou!"

Ryuuji jumped instinctively.

Certainly fall is here – fall’s appetite is here. Here--, waving to Taiga’s form, could not help but be truly surprised. In spite of the fact that dinner was coming, and in spite of the ''kakuni'' he was going to make, Taiga was waiting for Ryuuji those few extra minutes at the corner of the bakery in front of the supermarket, standing there eating a muffin.

"Ah, there were sweet potato muffins. In season." See ya!

"What are you eating!? From here we’re going to eat!"

"It’s OK, come on, come on! We’ll just use a little less rice."

She stretched her mouth around the muffin to bite it, but suddenly Taiga said "Ha!" and her face got serious.

"What’s up? What’s happening?"

"What shall I do? My throat is dry."

"Yeah, that muffin-something you were greedily standing and eating there, would surely make you thirsty. Have patience until we get to the house, then we can put on some tea."

"...What shall we do? I would like try a latte. Look, over there, in the park there’s a coffee shop."

"What!? The way it is, I’ve decided no way! From here we’re going to eat! Take a look at my shape! Don’t you have pork!?"

“Right away, it’s next. Just chill, alright? I tell you, if you have some, you’ll be satisfied. You don’t even need sugar. My treat! You were the one who said he liked the coffee over there! Let’s have some, OK?”

On and on she went, while packing muffin in her mouth, Taiga took Ryuuji along with her, they indeed went to the café. The plan was to get a latte without sugar. Somehow, when they saw the menu, “Wow, they’ve got Cinnamon Maple Cream Latte!”, they said, naming the most incredible thing they saw, moreover Ryuuji took the opportunity to wash his hands, “Come now! Fall’s latest product, pumpkin roll cake! By request, de-li-ci-ous!”

Indeed, fall is certainly here.

Fall’s appetite is here too.

Fried rice was the catalyst. The very beginning was Taiga’s appetite. Everything came together eventually when she snuck into the house late at night, Taiga fainted from hunger, when he made fried rice his luck ran out. Ryuuji’s mastery of cooking caught Taiga’s eye, and since then, the Takasu home had another sort-of member that came every day to eat. Speaking of that appetite, it was truly becoming a problem. Where in her body that chowhound was putting it all was pretty much a wonder.

Back to the present. Greeting fall’s appetite, Aisaka’s appetite was also rather bottomless. That night’s ''kakuni'' supper also, “Seconds!” “Seconds!” “Seco….” “…time to stop” “…nds!”, the cooker’s chestnut rice continued there until it turned color.

Well, isn’t it healthier than no appetite? I was thinking, if there are leftovers, I wouldn't be able to avoid saying something, but --– Ryuuji was bad manneredly eating the boiled rice from the ladle with his front teeth. Taiga gulped down Ryuuji’s extra portion. Come to think of it, this week Ryuuji’s not had a single refill. If you think about it well, it’s a good thing, Ryuuji one bowl, Yasuko one bowl, the two of them together seemed like one person. Since he was always cooking for three, Taiga came to eat as if she were two people.

“Ahh… that was good, that was good… and tea?”

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Talk:Toradora!:Volume9 Author's Notes

2010-02-06T14:30:50Z

RonnieCorny: New page: pota pota yaki is a rice cracker snack... i'm guessing she's saying that her existence would be acknowledged/appreciated just like some people would appreciate the snacks... even though t...

pota pota yaki is a rice cracker snack... i'm guessing she's saying that her existence would be acknowledged/appreciated just like some people would appreciate the snacks... even though the existence of the snack isn't that big a deal, there are those that would crave for it... just my thoughts...

Toradora!:Spin-Off Legend of the Black Catboy of Misfortune

2009-12-24T06:58:45Z

RonnieCorny: /* Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune */

===Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune===
[[Image:Toradora_Spin-Off_293.jpg|thumb]]

"...... D- d- d-, did you see it?"

"It's no use, the trees over there are obstructing...... a little more to the left."

"...... H- h- h-, how?"

"It's no good, that tree is obstructing it this time. ......ah, darn! It's quite frustrating! Can we cut it all down!?"

--I may do it.

Takasu Ryuuji struggled as he crouched down silently in order to drop the hooligan off his shoulders. The hooligan got down on the ground violently with both feet.

"Damn!"

She swore at the whole world, unleashing her frustration. She tore off an innocent leaf of a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perilla shiso] plant in the lush flower bed. The mint's scent drifted in the hellish heat of the noon of midsummer.

"Oh forget it, it's okay, that's a wrap. ......aaaah, even though I took the effort to come to school during summer vacation, I can't get one clear view of Kitamura-kun in his club activities. I am extremely unlucky......Hey, why are you ignoring me when I'm feeling down!?"

As Ryuuji crouched down to pick some shiso leaves, the hooligan, also known as Aisaka Taiga, kicked him right down and into the middle of the buttocks with the toe of her shoes.

"Ow...... that hurts, you dumbass!"

"You stupid idiot! You impudent dog!"

Whack! And he got slapped in the mouth this time, then Ryuuji's fierce eyes shone as he shouted back at Taiga without backing off one bit.

"Hit me or whatever you want to do, but I, these shiso, you can't stop me from taking them! These mints are FREE! I'm free to take them! Do you understand!?"

"Tch! Waitaminit! Spit! Gross!"

"Shut up! It's free, I'm free to take it. Besides, mint is my favorite! You should be happy to be able to enjoy these in the delicious salad noodles and pickled tuna covered rice every day! Incidentally, here, it was me who planted the mint! On dry days I'm also the one who waters them, sending the pests to the afterlife was also me! Therefore I have every right to harvest these mints!"

"......"

"Nevermind that! Help me pick them if you understand! Ah... It's good that I remembered, last time I finished picking them all, I wasn't sure how soon they would grow again. So careless, so careless, to almost forget. And I don't usually come here when summer vacation begins...... but then, the shiso plants are strong, look at this lush growth!"

Happily-- totally forgetting the original purpose for coming to school, Ryuuji became preoccupied with the shiso plants. Casually keeping one step apart, he didn't notice Taiga's eyes glaring at him.

Even with the violent (like a wild carnivorous animal) person known as the "Palmtop Tiger" present, concentrating on harvesting shiso mint under the golden sun in the heat of the day, Ryuuji had no thought of running. Instead Ryuuji went "he he", laughing happily, occasionally smelling the fragrance of the crop going "mmm..." while narrowing his eyes and thinking, I wouldn't mind putting some of these shiso into a sachet for my wallet and mobile phone. Whether it was the demonic eyes or the scary features of the face, he looked like a hopeless addict picking some illegal weed that was secretly cultivated in the Hokkaido region, although he was just enjoying the feeling of having a miniature agricultural life with his small personal herb garden.

"Ah, that's right, Taiga!"

"......"

A smug smile and the usual cold silence was all he got. But Ryuuji crawled over to Taiga on his knees from the mint plants without minding,

"In the flower bed over there, I have also planted eggplants and cucumber. Say, don't you want to take a look!? The seedlings grew and flowered before the closing ceremonies! Though I attempted last year, it was tragically caught by the gardening club and removed...... But this year!"

"Don't want to."

"Why? ......Hey, why are you so unkind to me? Why are you looking at me like that?"

"You are becoming more and more detestable! I knew I should have come on my own after all."

"Why is that!?"

In the first place, the reason why we came to school in the middle of summer vacation was to get the needed textbook which Taiga left in the locker. Although he wasn't asked particularly, but Ryuuji, who was bored with a lot of free time, decided to accompany her.

As they passed through the school gate, they found the baseball club practicing. Taiga's crush, Kitamura, was there. Since the closing ceremony, Taiga had not seen Kitamura. Kitamura was of course busy with club activities and could be seen from a distance, but she would not like him to see her spying on him.

And so Ryuuji and Taiga hid down beside the flowerbed at the side of the school building where the flowers grew thick, nestled between the sunflowers which swayed whenever they peeked. However, the huge weeds of the mid-summer was larger than the petite body of Taiga and blocked her view. So he let Taiga sit on his shoulder. For Taiga's sake, he showed some kindness. And then,

"You said I'm detestable, how am I detestable?!"

"There are lots of reasons, ......such as your face, or your sweaty back. You, your entire shirt is drenched. Ah, that reminds me......"

Taiga puts her hand inside her own skirt, thinking about the close contact between her buttocks and Ryuuji's shoulders earlier. Her eyes widened in shock, her small face twisting with disgust.

"Uh......ugh! My ass is wet with the sweat from your back! eeew! eeew!"

She stuck out her tongue and pretended to throw up. No matter how good-natured Ryuuji was, it still felt insulting.

"Oh, don't you think it's also possible that my back is getting wet from the sweat of your butt as well!?"

"Not a chance!"

Instant denial, cutting off further talks Taiga turns around going, yuck! yuck! and starts to kick at the dirt with her foot like a cat after it uses a toilet. Sweat pours from Ryuuji's skin, leaving spots on the ground.

"Ow! Ow! ......cough! Stop that you idiot! I was even kind enough to carry you on my shoulders!?"

"I'm now regretting that! What a disgusting sweaty dog! Go away! Get lost!"

"I will be using these shiso in tonight's tempura for our dinner, how can you say such a thing!? May lightning strike you down!"

"Ha! Lightning strikes can kill the germs! Whatever, I'm going to hurry and get that thing I forgot (textbook in the locker), as for you, you can stay here and bake in the heat!"

Like more lightning strikes hurting Ryuuji's feelings further, Taiga's long hair fluttered as she turned towards the school building and ran off. Ryuuji quietly rubs his sweat-soaked back, while shaking off the dirt in his hair like a dog, and biting his lip thinking. I knew it, she really is a terrible person.

--That witch, definitely, will have a horrible end.

Brushing her light colored hair with a tinge of gray, Taiga walked the deserted corridor towards the classroom on her own. Her exquisite profile as refined as delicate etched glass made her look like a French doll.

If she didn't open her mouth, rather, if not for "that" personality of hers, everyone would see Taiga as a very beautiful young lady. Her large eyes with light-colored pupils move relaxedly, looking like a kitten as it opens its mouth, the palmtop tiger lets out a lovely yawn. At times when no one is looking, Taiga does have a most captivating face.

However, the calm arch of Taiga's eyebrows suddenly raised steeply. From the other side of the corner, loud footsteps can be heard. It seems to be coming towards this place.

Disliking such a noisy person -- ignoring her own shortcomings, Taiga pouts with irritation at once. At this rate they may collide at the corner.

......Or maybe not.

She did not try to change the route to an empty path nearby, this girl is called "the palmtop tiger" for a reason. Taiga absolutely walks where she wants to walk. Even if the other person is a guy from the sumo club or even if the other person is a teacher, she did not intend to change her way. She is walking properly, the other person is breaking the rules running, there is no reason to give way.

Resolutely sticking out her elbow sharply out, Taiga lowered her head, continuing to plunge towards the prey which approached quickly. And sure enough, the moment she reached the corner,

"Ow... oh!"

"There it is...... kiyaaaah!"

Crash, the elbow connected bluntly. The other party who was knocked over screams loudly and lands on their butt, sitting in the hall due to the force of momentum. Standing firmly like a rock, before the eyes of the unperturbed Taiga, the schoolgirl's rather short skirt opened and was exposed fully. Both her pure white thighs and the seams of her light blue underpants were 100% exposed.

"......ah ah ah uuunggh~!"

Noticing the embarrassing position, she hurriedly sat down in the hall panicking and cried out again, pulling down on the hem of her skirt. And expressing "ouch" while pressing down her considerable chest that is best seen from the above. But by pressing down too strongly, did she know that it further enhanced the rounded shape to become clearly visible?

For some unknown reason (without any explanation), an even deeper cruelty and malevolence appeared in Taiga's eyes, looking down at this figure.

"......You, pay attention"

"Ah, s.. s... sor......"

Realizing that her panties had been exposed to just another girl, she lifted her eyes in that instant with a tinge of relief. However, with a blink of an eye, she realized that it was "the Palmtop Tiger" that stood arrogantly in front of her.

"......te... te... te..., teno...... eeek!"

Her round cheeks lost all color of blood in that instant.

Between Taiga's eyebrows, furrows looking like sawblades appeared.

Not even apologizing for knocking into me. Instead acting frightened like a victim. I hate this kind of person the most. Incidentally, I also hate those irresponsibly big breasts. ......without stating any apparent reason.

”......Can't you even say "I'm sorry"? Or is it, in your world, the "te... te... te..., teno..." acts as a form of apology? Eh? What a barbarian!"

"o... o... o... urk!" (TL comment:the girl is trying to say "sorry")

"You're still not apologizing!"

To quickly settle this simple issue. Facing the frightened girl, Taiga ruthlessly stepped forward. Whether the other party is a guy or a girl makes no difference, Taiga's hostility to either was easily aroused. But at this moment, it felt like her foot was stepping on something.

"......?"

The girl who collided had dropped her notebook, and it was under Taiga's foot. She noticed it, and grimaced,

"Aaah...... Kota-kun's notebook...... the only symbol of our love......"

She cried out in despair. Tch, and Taiga clicked her tongue while, with some emphasis, picking it up with her hands, and playing with it in her hand without returning it,

"You're really good at acting as the victim......since having something so important stepped would make you cry, then you shouldn't have dropped it in the first place......."

Glaring through her glittering and brutal eyes, sizing up the girl from head to toe. Her nasal breath was rough with excitement going "ngggh nggggh", and blood rushes throughout fueling the serious malicious intent emanating from her body. "or-, or-, sor-", the female freshman cries tearfully, seemingly frozen in that spot.

A cruel smile twisted on the rosy lips of Taiga -- now then, let's see what we can do to this big-breasted girl with audacious panties that are fully exposed.

"What is it, Sakura?"

[[Image:Toradora_Spin-Off_303.jpg|thumb]]

From the other side of the corridor, a voice echoed coldly.

"Sis-, sister!”

The big breated girl who had her panties exposed stood up and ran away, hiding her body like a rabbit behind the girl who appeared. Taiga recognized that girl,

"......It's here......"

She muttered with very low voice. From her entire small body, the scent of danger from a one ton tiger emanates. All reason seems to disappear from her eyes -- Taiga hates this person the most.

"What have we here? ......Aah, Aisaka Taiga. You are Kitamura's friend, I believe. I,"

"......think."

The girl with waist-length flowing black hair, was cold and spoke rudely like a man, which did not match her good looks. Taiga knew her. It was the president of the student council.

The student council president works with Kitamura everyday, and often as cleaning volunteers, they walk alongside together, and Kitamura would smile happily without a word -- Taiga was bitterly jealous of that girl.

"You recognize me? ......Well then, why? Why are you bullying my younger sister? Can you give me a good explanation?"

Calmly, without showing even a trace of fear, with an indulgent smile, the obnoxious student council president asks Taiga.

"......Your younger sister?"

"Ah, this is my younger sister, Kanou Sakura, a freshman. ......Bullying an underclassman girl, as expected of the Palmtop Tiger, aren't we attacking easy prey?"

The big breasted panties girl hid behind the president of the student council, her body trembled going "pu ru pu ru". Taiga pointed at her without hesitation,

"Hey, as the elder sister, you should be ashamed of that exhibitionist. Your younger sister was running in this corridor, and crashed into the blameless me, rather than apologizing to me she spouts some crazy words and crying as if I were the one at fault, and now hides behind you."

"Hey. ......Sakura. Is this true?"

The big breasted panties girl was startled. She grimaced, and then looked up at her elder sister gasping,

"Mo... mo... more or less.... !"

As soon as she nodded, the top of her head was struck! Even Taiga felt a little sympathy seeing that merciless karate chop. With some uncertain steps, her back was pushed down in front of Taiga,

"Now, you've made me look bad! You should properly apologize! How long are you going to hide behind me!"

Having been yelled at with such a resounding voice. Tears formed at the corners of her eyes as she cowered down and looked up hesitantly,

"S.. s.. s-sorry...... I'm very sorry......Aisaka-senpai......"

In front of Taiga she bowed down deeply. "Keh", and Taiga snorted through her nose losing some of her fury, brushing her hair up and decided to forgive her this time, she starts to turn away.

But,

"Uhm... uhm.... no..., notebook...."

"......Huh!?"

At the sound of the soft voice, Taiga turned back again and her eyes filled with murderous intent. Although the big breasted panties girl shivered with fright, she didn't hide behind her elder sister again, even though both her legs were shaking, she desperately reached her hand out.

"Uhm, uhm, the notebook......? Please return it! It's not mine! I... it's from someone important, it's our only connection! I.. i... i'll do anything~!"

However that desperation, strikes at Taiga's heart......no, it lit an inherent fire of fury.

"SH... SH.. SHUT UP! You, to what degree do you want to falsely accuse me!? I just forgot about giving this to you! You think I would want something like this!?"

"Not!"

Taking the notebook in her hands, Taiga violently throws the notebook towards the throat of the big breasted panties girl, hitting back like a butcher.

While trying to catch the notebook the big breasted panties girl fell down on her knees groaning painfully. "Aaaah", hitting her elbow while the student council president looks on, Taiga turned around and started to leave.

But just at that instant, something jumped deliberately right into Taiga's sight.

On the cover of the notebook with the distinct 22.5 cm shoeprint in the hands of the big breasted pants girl, the owner's name was clearly written with a felt-tip pen. ------"1-A Tomiie Kota".

＊　＊　＊

”Waaah~, today it's somewhat extravagant~! Ryu-chan, how many prawns are there?"

"3 pieces per person"

"Yay~, yay~"

Having completed her makeup except for the lipstick, with a hot curler still attached to her brightly dyed hair, Ryuuji's mother - Yasuko, wearing a pink camisole and Ryuuji's old middle-school jersey (track) pants and her huge breasts swaying wildly.

The innocent child-like face happily holding the chopsticks, looked like a young girl with her makeup, with beautifully painted rosy pink glossy nails, her hair flowing over her smooth collarbone, highlighting her feminine charms with a sweet scent that emitted from Yasuko's skin more suitable for her real age and her evening work.

"Properly eat the vegetables too, ok? And also the shiso."

"Tempura shiso, I loooo~ve it! Ryu-chan too, I loooo~ve!"

At the narrow and low dining table, like peeking through a sheer cloth the colorful vegetables can be seen as well as Ryuuji's wonderful tempura all lined up. In the miso soup, there is tofu, daikon (radish/turnip), vegetables; the steamed rice mixed with five spices; and today's side dish, pickled eggplants --- grown in secret in the school's gardens. As for the tempura sauce, lemon juice, or grated daikon, or anything to suit the personal taste.

Half past 6 in the evening, Takasu family living room. Sitting around the low dining table were Ryuuji, Yasuko, and Taiga, ready to have their usual dinner.

"Bon appetit", they all said together, Yasuko reached over for the prawn, Ryuuji brought the miso soup to his mouth. Taiga's chopsticks hovered over the prawns, but why is she hesitating?

"Hey, move your chopsticks."

Ryuuji scowled. But Taiga just grimaced, without any retort, and just like that stopped moving.

"......What is it?"

"......What's the matter? Taiga-chan?"

Even though she was being asked by both mother and son Taiga remains seated rigidly. "......", keeping her mouth shut. The usual Taiga would have taken even Ryuuji's share of the main course together when she extended her chopsticks. Yasuko was concerned, and put down her chopsticks,

”I see... I see..., sorry ＊ Ya-chan absolutely looo~ves Taiga-chan~ ＊"

"Huh"

Swoosh, and Taiga was hugged tightly. She kissed, "tsup tsup tsuuuup". Being buried between those huge breasts Taiga couldn't make a sound, before long, her small hands pushed painfully with a pitter-patter sound.

"I can't breathe! I can't breathe!"

"Aaaahh......"

At the time she was released, she gasped for air and simultaneously collapsed onto the seat futon (zabuton). After a little while, not wanting Ryuuji and Yasuko to worry about her, she slowly straightened her body.

"......No.., nothing. Actually, I just a little bit......don't really feel like eating anything."

"You don't have any appetite!?"

"That is just so~"

"......Even me, even when I'm slightly ill, I would still have it! ......this, take this. and this too."

Taiga passed a prawn towards Yasuko, another towards Ryuuji, and the other one left, after being dipped in the tempura sauce, she gingerly brought to her own small mouth like trying out the taste.

"Don't force yourself to eat. Are you really okay?"

Taking a bite, Taiga nodded her head while sprinkling salt, adding more. She paused and continued eating it as it was.

"......Don't worry. I can eat this. Delicious."

Also taking in a mouthful of white rice.

"Shouldn't you probably take back the prawn? You should savor it since you're able to eat. You see shrimp on our dining table only once a year~"

"It's ok, after eating the vegetables I'm already good."

After eating one prawn, Taiga's appetite seemed to have improved, as she also drank the miso soup. And so Ryuuji was relieved,

"Shiso can be considered medicine. You should take more."

The platter of mint was turned so that it faced Taiga. Taiga nodded, and took one piece to her mouth immediately. She seemed to like it, and took another piece.

In the end, Taiga also ate the other vegetable tempura, the pickled vegetables, the miso soup, and also some rice (this is a very rare situation, as she normally can easily finish three bowls), for the time being we have finished eating.

Yasuko also felt relieved after seeing that, and headed out to work taking the Chanel bag that she always treasured.

-- Disaster struck several hours later.

"......Ryuuji......I......may be dying......"

Ryuuji turns his head upon hearing this shocking statement, it was already after 10 in the evening.

As usual they were relaxing after eating and having a good time, folding a cushion in half and spreading it, the two of them were carelessly lying flat down on the tatami mat watching television. Neither of them did anything, they begin to fall asleep.

"......I'm dying......"

"Wh......what?"

Noticing Taiga behind Ryuuji, she seemed to have sprawled down awkwardly, somewhat like toppling sideways holding her stomach, her complexion very pale. Although Taiga has always been very fair-skinned, her skin tone now was a tinge of pale beige, she was very pale. Ryuuji hurriedly got up, crawling over causing Taiga's hair to scatter on the tatami with his knees.

"How is it!? Is it a stomach-ache!?"

"I-.. it hurts... a... lot...."

"Do you need to go to the toilet? Can you stand? Are you going to throw up?!"

"Toilet...... I don't think the pain is that bad......"

Wheezing and coughing, she vomited, Taiga softly shivered. Traces of cold sweat form on her damp forehead, it was quite cold.

"Is it your stomach!?"

"I-..., I don't know...... it just hurts..... here."

Around the navel of the dress which has a repeating cotton lace pattern which expands softly, she strokes that area with her small hand. Ryuuji realized clearly, this is quite serious.

"w-, we should go to the hospital!"

Inside the birdcage placed in a corner of the living room, a disfigured parrot called inko-chan also chimed "that's right!" while nodding with the whites of its eyes bulging.

"Oh yes, ambulance......must call the ambulance!"

"I-, i-, isn't that a bit exaggerated....?"

"But you can't walk, right!? Aren't you dying!?"

"Calling an ambulance just for a stomach-ache......don't......I-... I can cope......uuugh~......"

Taiga strained her voice, and twisted her body to try to endure the pain. It can't be helped---Ryuuji quickly opened the phonebook, verifying that the nearby university hospital had night time emergency facilities, dialed the phone while taking his wallet and the health insurance card and putting them in his pocket.

"Oh! use my insurance card!"

The trembling became more apparent. The health insurance card was taken out and inserted into the slanting back pocket, carrying the light body of the weary Taiga who was lying down. Taiga was silent, like a ventriloquist's doll being carried in the arms of Ryuuji, her face pressed against his shoulders,

"......nngh......nnggh......"

While enduring the pain she moaned softly.

Impatiently locking the door with the housekey, Ryuuji rushed out from the front door even though he was only wearing his sandals. Making loud "kang kang" noise that rang on the iron stairs as he ran down, carrying Taiga to the main street to catch a taxi,

"Sorry, there's someone sick here! Would you mind letting us go ahead!?"

Jumping out in front of an older office worker who had just stopped a taxi, he pleaded. Under the light that shone on Ryuuji's evil-looking sanpaku eyes, the older man felt threatened, and dropped his bag out of instinctive fear, and took one step back,

"Thank you very much!"

Ryuuji interpreted that as a "Yes", and slides in the open taxi door. Informing the name of the university hospital and screaming, "Hurry, this person is sick!" to the driver, who adjusted the rearview mirror and nodded many times. Understanding the circumstance, he realized it was not a car-jacking.

"Taiga, hang in there! We're almost there!"

Taiga could not even sit properly, but instead could only lie prone on Ryuuji's lap, even now trembling due to the pain.

So pitiful -- no matter how she verbally abused him, or the violent treatment he received, they were kindred who ate meals out of the same pot. Taiga was really a girl after all. Ryuuji could see that she was patiently enduring the pain, trying not to cry out loud. And so he brushed her long hair gently that has become disheveled.

Just what on earth is going on? Is it food poisoning, appendicitis, or is it some other worse disease?

"......dead......"

"id-, idiot! Stop saying you're dead or dying! Saying such words will only make things worse!"

"......You're wrong......It's not me....That fellow......"

Maybe he is dead.

While lying on Ryuuji's knee, Taiga was babbling incoherently. Maybe it was playing dead, that fellow, that black tomcat, or maybe it really is dead. Then perhaps, this is its curse.

"Wh~.., what? What do you mean?"

"......Uhm, female freshman......final memento, those words......that thing......after death, that relic, that maybe....oh"

"That freshman's, uhm......are you talking about the incident this morning?"

It was when Ryuuji was in the middle of harvesting the shiso and eggplants when Taiga encountered that incident in the school building with the freshman girl. Ryuuji heard about it while they were on their way home.

"I..... stepped on it at that time, that notebook......because it was too ominous, I didn't say a word......that-, that thing, was......[Tomiie Kota's] property......"

Can it be? Ryuuji instinctively stares around the ear of Taiga who's facing down. He knew Tomiie Kota. He is a close junior of Kitamura, a freshman in the student council, and is Taiga's so-called "black tomcat" -- they say misfortune will follow when a black cat crosses one's path. In Taiga's case, it was Tomiie Kota in particular, who is the black cat that brought about this misfortune. Every time Tomiie Kota appears before Taiga, some unbelievable misfortune seems to happen to Taiga.

Her lunch sandwich would be trampled. The canned coffee would fly out of the machine and slam into her head. When cutting the tail of a fried horse mackerel, it gets stuck onto her forehead, this can also be attributed to him; when she was walking from school, she would get hit by a dropped eraser; sometimes soya milk would be sprayed onto her face -- it's because he is Kitamura's junior, and simply for this one reason that he is able to still survive, if not because of this, Taiga would have already personally delivered that insolent underclassman to hell.

Ryuuji also knew about this very well. Those encounters with Taiga were probably also miserable and unfortunate occurrences for him. But then,

"The-, the-, therefore, why the hell did this curse......"

"He's dead......that fellow, is dead......soul in that notebook......I, stepped on that......?"

Taiga's body continued shivering weakly. Her fingers grasping Ryuuji's kneecaps through the trousers felt icy-cold,

"......It keeps following......that fellow's, bad luck, through his spirit.....ugh......"

Taiga continued to moan, the sound of her suffering echoing in the silent taxi.

＊　＊　＊

"For nighttime emergency medical diagnosis and treatment, it can be troublesome unless you telephone first, don't you think?"

......At last, we're here. While Ryuuji was carrying the trembling Taiga to the reception counter, she murmured for the first time:

"Th~, that being said......I'm sorry. And so..., uhm..., can we get this medical examination started?"

"What was that?"

The woman in a business attire with the strange thick makeup was a bit unnerved in front of Ryuuji's scary face, carrying Taiga carefully and looking up. Taiga seemed to be already at death's door, and could not respond to the situation,

"It seems to be a stomachache. She was already feeling ill before the meal, and it seems to have become very bad a few minutes after eating!"

"What did she eat-?"

"Tempura!"

"......Tempura!?"

Ha!

And, I heard a snort that sounded like a nasal laugh -- hopefully it was just my imagination. The woman tossed a sheet of paper forward from the counter,

"Here, please fill this-"

And even after being told that, his arm didn't move, but remained holding onto Taiga. Ryuuji cut the woman off and carefully laid Taiga down on the sofa of the lobby. Even though Taiga's eyes were closed, she doesn't lose consciousness, gritting her teeth to endure the pain with an expression of anguish. The fluorescent light were turned off; only small electric lamps dimly illuminated the spacious lobby. There were no sign of any other patients, and voices echoed strangely.

"Pl-, pl-, please lend me a pen."

After a cold glare, a pen was rolled across the counter with the "cara cara" sound echoing.

In any case; name and address (the house number of the building next to Ryuuji's home should be correct, right?), symptom, I scribbled it hurriedly,

"Er-, uh, is the insurance card good by tomorrow?"

"Please wait over there on the sofa-"

His question wasn't answered either, and the paper wasn't looked at also, the woman just casually tossed it into an unknown box at the side. What kind of treatment is this? He wanted to ask, but it seemed better to just obey that woman's instructions and wait. Ryuuji went back to Taiga who moaned, and sat down beside her, but somehow, had an inexplicable idea.

This place, it's no different from the jungle.

......Isn't it? Should he take her to another place before it's too late? That woman at the reception counter is certainly not a doctor or a nurse, but her symptoms are very dire, it's probably better to find out her condition now. Glancing quietly at the suffering Taiga, however, luck seemed to change in that moment of hesitation.

"Aisaka-san, please!"

A voice called from the examination room, and soon that woman approached us pushing a wheelchair with a clattering sound.

"Please ride in this-"

Taiga opened her eyes slightly, and reflexively twisted her body and tried to escape as if sensing something foreboding, the woman quickly reached across and with Ryuuji's help, grasped the child and placed her onto the wheelchair. The woman than pushed the wheelchair efficiently into the examination room. Ryuuji hastily pursued after them.

This is the patient-, the woman announced immediately, and the open door of the examination room started closing automatically.

Gaaa! Just as the doors were closing, he grabbed onto Taiga's leg and faltered. Ignoring both the wheezing Ryuuji and the silent Taiga, the woman calmly opened the door,

"Please, go in!"

Without warning, she pushed the wheelchair in and lets it go,

"Aiyee!"

Taiga's careening wheelchair was caught with the foot of a slipper by a young man in a white coat -- why is his head shaven, this doctor. He examined Taiga's leg while smiling amiably,

"What seems to be the problem-? ah, this leg? Is it painful, if that's the case I can surely heal it quickly."

"That was caused by banging on that door just now! It's stomachache!"

If Ryuuji didn't immediately say something, the doctor would probably only examine the leg and send them home afterwards. Ah, abdominal pain? How much? And the doctor put on the stethoscope to listen to the stomach of Taiga.

But Taiga's bulky cotton lace clothes had too many frills, piled up to the point of death (also known as Furi Furi one-piece virtue). Seeing this, the doctor shook his head, as if he could not understand where to open it.

"Hah! I give up. Lie down on the examination table for a while-, put your head here-, yes, yes, that's it"

The wheelchair's brakes weren't engaged. Taiga trembled as she endured the pain struggling while slowly transferring to the examination table. The doctor only read the medical chart without noticing anything else. Ryuuji being flustered, tried to lend a hand to Taiga, but,

"Ah, are you with her? her relative-?"

"Eh? uhm... no, a friend......"

Suddenly being asked by that doctor, Ryuuji turned his head around, in that instant, Taiga fell off the swiveling wheelchair that slipped. And she hit the hard floor with a dull thumping sound.

"Oh! Ta-, Taiga!"

"......uh......"

Clinging onto the wobbling consultation seat, Taiga stands up with a dazed look, quietly rubbing her forehead. The doctor then joked,

"Aha ha ha ha ha~, what are you doing!? Is that where it hurts~!? What's the~"

The doctor seem to jokingly place the stethoscope on the forehead, until he noticed the evil eyes of Ryuuji who stared in utter amazement at this unbelievable scene.

"......You-, your face, isn't it scary~! Can you go away for a little while so as not to distract me!? It's really scaring me~!"

"Eh......bu~, but......"

"It's ok, it's ok! Just wait over there!"

He was chased off up to the doorway of the examination room and almost totally pushed out. The curtain is closed, the view of Taiga passed out of sight. But how can he leave that seemingly useless doctor and Taiga alone together? He regretfully chews on his fingernails,

"......"

"......"

Looking around, an elementary schoolboy was sitting in the corner of the examination room. He had asthmatic spasm but still raised and opens his mouth widely to inhale some steam, arms crossed with a "Nobody else is allowed to fiddle with this" posture while tightly hugging the machine. His eyes were glazed over like dead fish slowly losing freshness -- perhaps, it's not only due to the illness that he is fatigued.

It was absolutely a mistake to have come here, realizing this now.

"Aaargh!"

Taiga's tearful voice echoed. Just like the scream of a bear caught in a trap.

"It's alright, it's alright, I'm just drawing a little blood! Ah, failed again. ......tch! What the shit!. ......this time for sure......still nothing, tch! Can't find the vein, wait a minute,"

"Aaaah, aaahh, aaaaaaahhh~!"

"I'm just looking for the vein......tch! No, this is no good! Switching to the other arm, this is also useless, tch! tch! shit!"

The sounds echoing in the consultation room were scarier than anything in the world. As the terrifying voice of Taiga came to a halt, Ryuuji was left standing petrified. The tongue-click noise continues, making him want to cover his ears, but the fact was he brought Taiga here himself. He could not avert his eyes from that scary responsibility...... Well, let's stop this already, I have to tell him to stop this. And then I have to get her out of here and go to another place.

With that determination he opens the curtain,

"Ha! I got it... I got it! With this it shouldn't hurt so much anymore, once we can examine the blood we should be able to determine if there was infection inside the stomach, you can rest assured from this blood check-!"

The syringe was full of Taiga's somewhat strange looking dark colored blood. The doctor smiled proudly after such a difficult ordeal,

"There, just wait a little bit! Here, take this as an apology for the pain caused!"

He took out a candy from the pocket of his white coat, unwrapping it and dropping it in the mouth of Taiga which remained half-open without moving. Taiga grabbed Ryuuji's hand suddenly, and coughed out the candy. The candy rolled a bit in Ryuuji's hand before becoming stuck. ......That's understandable, but, on the other hand, Ryuuji was feeling troubled. If a person comes to the hospital with a painful stomach, why would you give them candy??

After all this, we were told we had to go back to the sofa of the waiting room again for another 20 minutes. Taiga plopped herself down and occasionally groaned, and continued to shiver slightly and rubbed circles on her stomach desperately. The inner side of her left arm was quickly bruising. Absorbent cotton was taped to the inner side of her right arm, a seemingly impossible amount of blood seeping into it. Her eyes glazed over lifelessly, and her complexion became terribly pasty.

"......Taiga. Hey......"

"......"

There was no response. Her voice doesn't come out anymore either. Her lips were parched dry and cracked, but maybe because she also bit on them to endure the pain, that's why it is bleeding a bit. The truth was, she surely looked worse now then before coming to this place.

It can't be helped, but the cause of the stomach pain must be discovered, and it must be treated,

"Uhm, ahem~, I'm not really sure!"

From behind, incoherent voices conversed idly.

With a sinking feeling, Ryuuji looks back at that doctor standing behind him. In his hand was an intravenous bag that he was going to hang onto a metal support .

"That blood we drew just now, it won't be able to help us determine the cause of the stomachache!"

"Wo~, wo~, won't be able......"

"But it will help us to determine that there is no inflammation of the appendix. On the other hand, this may be something that we can't just treat at an emergency ward!"

Huh! Feeling dismayed at this time in the face of the smiling doctor, while discreetly keeping Taiga behind him, Ryuuji desperately questioned the doctor.

"If it's not intestinal, then, could it be some women's issue, for example gynecological problems......"

"If that's the case, that would not be considered a health emergency, unfortunately! If you really want to know what is wrong, please come back during regular hours to consult a general practitioner. Oh yes, as this is a university hospital, there is no referral, so it can be quite expensive!"

"So~, somehow could it be catarrh or...... those things are......"

"That-is-why~, she did not have diarrhea, right!? Nor did she she throw up, right!? Even though you have come to the emergency room, we were still unable to treat it! There is no bleeding in her stomach, and there is no symptom that warrants treatment at an emergency ward! Is it is food poisoning, there doesn't seem to be any such acute symptoms! Neither is it constipation! And it doesn't seem to be gas! Anyway, the only thing noticeable is that she is in pain but cannot elaborate what is the pain, so...this!"

And why do you seem to be so happy, or is it merely the night shifts causing you to have high emotional tension, the doctor just pointed at the intravenous drip. Picking up the readied tube, and as soon as the cap of the needle was removed,

"This is pain-killer! Ah, this is good, a needle was left in a while ago just in case something like this might happen. This child, her blood vessels are quite difficult to find~"

The cotton on the inner right arm of Taiga was peeled off. Blood was gradually seeping out......the needle on the rubber-like mouth still remained stuck. Eehhh......but Ryuuji took a few steps back, unable to do anything. The doctor worked in front of Ryuuji, with great skill and dexterity, adjusted the rate of the intravenous drip,

"When the drip runs out, call me!"

"......He~, here, leave the IV drip here......? This, in the lobby?"

"There will probably be other patients, therefore we must keep the examination room free. Because sometimes serious injuries do arrive"

"......That sounds terrible......"

"Like ruptured intestine."

Not really caring about stories about injuries to internal organs, and nonchalantly divulging such findings, the doctor finished by turning back to the examination room. This university hospital certainly has a reputation as a very advanced lifesaving institution; it is one of Japan's leading hospitals. It's only logical that such serious cases would be sent here.

However, I do get it, and Ryuuji incidentally also came to an unusual understanding. An excellent doctor will surely be assigned to more urgent lifesaving situations, this young doctor with seemingly less skills might have been left behind here. Oh my, although this is just the imaginings of a selfish layman, judging by the suitability of that unnecessary examination~

"Taiga!?"

Looking over suddenly, Ryuuji shouted shrilly. Rashes were appearing all over the entire body of Taiga to which the painkiller was administered, especially from the inner arm where the needle of the IV drip is stuck. The hives could be seen spreading quickly, connecting together forming large masses of rashes,

"Oh, oh, OH......EMERGENCY! TAIGA! someone help!"

"......oou~, aaaargh......"

"Someone please come and help!"

Mouth gaping wide and wailing beside Ryuuji, Taiga noticed the IV drip needle inserted in her arm for the first time.

"Wh~, what~......can't breathe.....whew~! This......wha~......ooow......whew~!"

"Taiga, hang in there! This is the drug to stop the pain!"

"......Tch, stop... pain..., drug......I......"

"Wheeze wheeze" sounded like from a high-pitched whistle was emanating from the throat of Taiga. Her body was twisted in pain. Her airway narrowed. The doctor and several nurses hurried over, looking at Taiga's face, and at that instant "bong!" and the eyelid can be seen swelling up,

"Oh, this is bad"

"I am allergic to pain-killers..."

--These few words squeaked out with great difficulty on Taiga's scant breath. Well then, is this an allergic reaction? Doctor, why didn't you first inquire about allergies? And, why was the intravenous drip administered without obtaining the patient's consent?

But Ryuuji did not know yet. Of course Taiga did not know either. Neither did the nurses nor the doctor know. Already on the floor above, on this hospital's second floor, a new misery......no, the curse of the black cat had already begun to carve its way to bring more terror for Taiga.

Second floor, at the public telephone at the nurse's station.

A high school freshman who is hospitalized with bone fractures in many places all over his body, grasping several 10 yen coins in his hand, paces back and forth unceasingly in front of the nurse's station since a little while ago.

What is it, Tomiie-kun? Want to telephone your girlfriend? Don't have a telephone card?

What is it? What is it? You do have a girlfriend!?

Eh? What kind of person is she? Girlie gal? Clean and innocent? Come on, come on, unless you call her quickly the grandma of ward 402 will be on the phone again for a long time.

We won't listen in, we're not listening in! See, we are not straining up our ears to eavesdrop.

Go ahead, go ahead, everyone encouraged~!

He was extremely hesitant and awkward but in the end, he only called home after all, and asked for some change of pants, and quickly left the nurses' station afterwards. He was not yet mature enough to be able to call the girl he likes in front of those working elder sisters.

At that time, the remaining 10 yen coin that he tightly clasped was accidentally dropped. The coin went "clink clank" as it bounded and rolled down the stairs, it was impossible to pick up as it rolled down and ended on the first floor before you could say "ah". Although it was only a 10 yen coin, money is still money, so he ran after it in a hurry, running all the way down to the lobby on the first floor. The rolling coin made a "korokoro" sound was still being chased, began to roll on to a deserted corridor.

As she was placed on the stretcher, Taiga was already quickly losing consciousness. She knew that she was having a lengthy bout of severe allergy. The mucous membrane of her eyes, inside of her mouth and trachea swelled up more and more, and became hot and itchy, and caused her to shiver. The abdominal pain became more severe, and a dark fog seemed to start to drift in front of her vision gradually.

Shouldn't Ryuuji be by her side? Desperately twisting her neck, and so Taiga saw that thing.

The moving stretcher was heading towards a T-shaped corridor.

From the left side onto the right, whoa, and it ran right through.

A death flag -- these words came to Taiga's mind. Because of that fellow, that fellow probably resembles that black tomcat who should already be dead.

"Wha~!?"

The first to cry out was a nurse. "kachink", and suddenly something small and hard got caught in between one of the wheels of the speeding stretcher. The wheel on one side of the stretcher stopped causing the stretcher to spin 180 degrees on its axle, sandwiching the nurse onto the wall, while the doctor's foot was run over by the stretcher that kept going forward due the inclined floor, causing him to stumble. Then Ryuuji also stumbled into that mass of people and hits his jaw on the floor, and then Taiga, who was suffering from severe allergic reaction and stomachache, flew through the air at great force -- the sudden stop of the stretcher threw her violently onto the wall causing her to bounce off it, and then she landed butt-first in the middle of the potted plants.

The last thing that Taiga saw was the overturned stretcher and, crushed underneath it, a mass of people like dumplings.

For a minute after all that, no one made a sound, it was just a catastrophe. After all, for a 10 yen coin to cause such a disaster, it's something that's unimaginable.

＊　＊　＊

Eventually, an appropriate dosage of medication was given that treated Taiga's allergy before the day ended, and after calming down, her stomachache also decreased. Taking a taxi home, Ryuuji also sent Taiga up to the entrance of her home, and by the time Ryuuji also fell asleep, it is morning.

"This is not right~!"

In Taiga's apartment, it was unusual to find Ryuuji and Yasuko there. It was different here from the Takasu residence, the dazzling morning sunlight streamed into the room, Yasuko's carefree voice echoed in the room.

Ryuuji had mailed (SMSed) details about last night's events, and Yasuko didn't drink much, and instead had come home earlier. Guessing that it was almost time for Taiga to wake up, the two of them came to visit her together.

"......Because yesterday I didn't come up here, I didn't notice......"

"Taiga-chan, you must restrain yourself a little~"

Taiga, dressed in pajamas, looked embarrassed and stared at the Takasus quietly from the doorway of the bedroom while chewing on her sleeve (making soft gajigaji sounds) and fidgeting her bare feet on top of the rug.

In the large living room of Taiga's apartment, the marks of Taiga's horrible lifestyle were in evidence all around. First of all, two empty ice cream cups were left on the tea table. And also left inside were cheap popsicle sticks among the garbage. An empty potato chip bag was left on the stylish corner counter where the extravagant 42-inch television was placed, and a pudding cup was left on the kitchen island. Also a yogurt cup. The remains of the rare cheesecake from the specialty store were audaciously left on top of the sofa.

"......Are these... from yesterday... by yourself? Kushieda didn't come to visit?"

Yup, and Taiga nodded.

"After coming back from school? Before dinner?"

Yup, and Taiga again kept nodding.

They also found a milk tea PET bottle that rolled across the rug surprising Yasuko who was dressed in a jersey. She then lightly rapped Taiga on the head.

"You ate too much, no matter how one puts it, this is~. Taiga-chan! It's not good like this!"

"......I'm sorry......"

Obligingly, Taiga hung her head in shame. Her cheeks still had traces of the rash. Recalling the events of last night, Ryuuji couldn't bring himself to get angry with her now, but still was disgusted and began cleaning up the garbage.

"So, how's your stomach?"

"......After a night's sleep, it seems to be okay now......Now i'm hungry......"

That's it.

However Yasuko just laughed wryly, "Already? I guess it can't be helped though~☆ but, I'm glad you're well now", while rubbing Taiga's cheek gently with her own cheek. With Taiga now safe, her heart was relieved and delighted. And she continued to rub Taiga's cheek with her own bare cheek (without makeup).

"That's right, after we've cleaned this place up, we'll take your insurance card and go back to the hospital, then we can all go for breakfast~! McDonald's breakfast? Sudoba breakfast? Ya-chan just got paid so I can treat you to whatever you want~!"

"Hooray! Sudoba breakfast! Morning caramel toast!"

Taiga almost lept up in agreement, undoing her braided long hair that was tied up for sleeping as she went back into her room and closed the door, immediately changing her clothes the minute she went inside.

Ryuuji lightly glared at Yasuko in reaction,

"......Aren't you pampering her too much?"

After hearing this, Yasuko also rubbed Ryuuji's cheeks with her own cheek, just like what she did to Taiga a while ago. Realizing how much of a "mother complex" this seems, but this action......so Ryuuji gently pulled away, and Yasuko's eyes narrowed as she laughed.

"Ryu-chan, you did great~! Taking Taiga to the hospital properly, and bringing her back properly......yup, properly keeping the house, you're quite capable~! That's great! That's great! You're quite the man!"

"......"

Now what!?

While thinking.

While tossing the trash into the garbage bag, he hung his head down, slightly embarrassed. Inside Taiga's bedroom, she had almost completely taken off her pajama's trousers, BANG, a heavy thud, "OUCH!" came the awkward voice. What is it?, he calls in, do not come in you horny dog! among other things.

She seems to be back to normal at the very least, I guess.

By the way, the amount of money that Taiga paid to the hospital, including the various examination and lab fees, in the end came up to an enormous sum. So much so that the Takasu family of Ryuuji and Yasuko, and even the ostensibly rich Taiga, wordlessly expressed surprise to the accounts section woman with a frown and glare.

Looking back towards the imposing university hospital on the way back home, though it might be because of the tragic experiences they have had that they looked at it through unpleasant eyes, for some reason there was a threatening aura like it was about to release some turbulence about it. For example, even though the weather today is fine, it is the kind of midsummer's day with a deep blue sky and sunshine that grills the eyes, yet why is it that there is a dark cloud visibly hanging just directly above that hospital?

Shouldn't a hospital ward not even have a death god? As Taiga muttered with disgust, she made a new determination that she would never be coming back a second time.

Passing the supposed dead black tomcat, surprising Taiga to the extent that she spews the milk she was drinking, the heat of summer hasn't cooled down yet but it was the beginning of a new school term.

The End.

Toradora!:Spin-Off Legend of the Black Catboy of Misfortune

2009-12-24T06:54:45Z

RonnieCorny:

===Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune===

"...... D- d- d-, did you see it?"

"It's no use, the trees over there are obstructing...... a little more to the left."

"...... H- h- h-, how?"

"It's no good, that tree is obstructing it this time. ......ah, darn! It's quite frustrating! Can we cut it all down!?"

--I may do it.

Takasu Ryuuji struggled as he crouched down silently in order to drop the hooligan off his shoulders. The hooligan got down on the ground violently with both feet.

"Damn!"

She swore at the whole world, unleashing her frustration. She tore off an innocent leaf of a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perilla shiso] plant in the lush flower bed. The mint's scent drifted in the hellish heat of the noon of midsummer.

"Oh forget it, it's okay, that's a wrap. ......aaaah, even though I took the effort to come to school during summer vacation, I can't get one clear view of Kitamura-kun in his club activities. I am extremely unlucky......Hey, why are you ignoring me when I'm feeling down!?"

As Ryuuji crouched down to pick some shiso leaves, the hooligan, also known as Aisaka Taiga, kicked him right down and into the middle of the buttocks with the toe of her shoes.

"Ow...... that hurts, you dumbass!"

"You stupid idiot! You impudent dog!"

Whack! And he got slapped in the mouth this time, then Ryuuji's fierce eyes shone as he shouted back at Taiga without backing off one bit.

"Hit me or whatever you want to do, but I, these shiso, you can't stop me from taking them! These mints are FREE! I'm free to take them! Do you understand!?"

"Tch! Waitaminit! Spit! Gross!"

"Shut up! It's free, I'm free to take it. Besides, mint is my favorite! You should be happy to be able to enjoy these in the delicious salad noodles and pickled tuna covered rice every day! Incidentally, here, it was me who planted the mint! On dry days I'm also the one who waters them, sending the pests to the afterlife was also me! Therefore I have every right to harvest these mints!"

"......"

"Nevermind that! Help me pick them if you understand! Ah... It's good that I remembered, last time I finished picking them all, I wasn't sure how soon they would grow again. So careless, so careless, to almost forget. And I don't usually come here when summer vacation begins...... but then, the shiso plants are strong, look at this lush growth!"

Happily-- totally forgetting the original purpose for coming to school, Ryuuji became preoccupied with the shiso plants. Casually keeping one step apart, he didn't notice Taiga's eyes glaring at him.

Even with the violent (like a wild carnivorous animal) person known as the "Palmtop Tiger" present, concentrating on harvesting shiso mint under the golden sun in the heat of the day, Ryuuji had no thought of running. Instead Ryuuji went "he he", laughing happily, occasionally smelling the fragrance of the crop going "mmm..." while narrowing his eyes and thinking, I wouldn't mind putting some of these shiso into a sachet for my wallet and mobile phone. Whether it was the demonic eyes or the scary features of the face, he looked like a hopeless addict picking some illegal weed that was secretly cultivated in the Hokkaido region, although he was just enjoying the feeling of having a miniature agricultural life with his small personal herb garden.

"Ah, that's right, Taiga!"

"......"

A smug smile and the usual cold silence was all he got. But Ryuuji crawled over to Taiga on his knees from the mint plants without minding,

"In the flower bed over there, I have also planted eggplants and cucumber. Say, don't you want to take a look!? The seedlings grew and flowered before the closing ceremonies! Though I attempted last year, it was tragically caught by the gardening club and removed...... But this year!"

"Don't want to."

"Why? ......Hey, why are you so unkind to me? Why are you looking at me like that?"

"You are becoming more and more detestable! I knew I should have come on my own after all."

"Why is that!?"

In the first place, the reason why we came to school in the middle of summer vacation was to get the needed textbook which Taiga left in the locker. Although he wasn't asked particularly, but Ryuuji, who was bored with a lot of free time, decided to accompany her.

As they passed through the school gate, they found the baseball club practicing. Taiga's crush, Kitamura, was there. Since the closing ceremony, Taiga had not seen Kitamura. Kitamura was of course busy with club activities and could be seen from a distance, but she would not like him to see her spying on him.

And so Ryuuji and Taiga hid down beside the flowerbed at the side of the school building where the flowers grew thick, nestled between the sunflowers which swayed whenever they peeked. However, the huge weeds of the mid-summer was larger than the petite body of Taiga and blocked her view. So he let Taiga sit on his shoulder. For Taiga's sake, he showed some kindness. And then,

"You said I'm detestable, how am I detestable?!"

"There are lots of reasons, ......such as your face, or your sweaty back. You, your entire shirt is drenched. Ah, that reminds me......"

Taiga puts her hand inside her own skirt, thinking about the close contact between her buttocks and Ryuuji's shoulders earlier. Her eyes widened in shock, her small face twisting with disgust.

"Uh......ugh! My ass is wet with the sweat from your back! eeew! eeew!"

She stuck out her tongue and pretended to throw up. No matter how good-natured Ryuuji was, it still felt insulting.

"Oh, don't you think it's also possible that my back is getting wet from the sweat of your butt as well!?"

"Not a chance!"

Instant denial, cutting off further talks Taiga turns around going, yuck! yuck! and starts to kick at the dirt with her foot like a cat after it uses a toilet. Sweat pours from Ryuuji's skin, leaving spots on the ground.

"Ow! Ow! ......cough! Stop that you idiot! I was even kind enough to carry you on my shoulders!?"

"I'm now regretting that! What a disgusting sweaty dog! Go away! Get lost!"

"I will be using these shiso in tonight's tempura for our dinner, how can you say such a thing!? May lightning strike you down!"

"Ha! Lightning strikes can kill the germs! Whatever, I'm going to hurry and get that thing I forgot (textbook in the locker), as for you, you can stay here and bake in the heat!"

Like more lightning strikes hurting Ryuuji's feelings further, Taiga's long hair fluttered as she turned towards the school building and ran off. Ryuuji quietly rubs his sweat-soaked back, while shaking off the dirt in his hair like a dog, and biting his lip thinking. I knew it, she really is a terrible person.

--That witch, definitely, will have a horrible end.

Brushing her light colored hair with a tinge of gray, Taiga walked the deserted corridor towards the classroom on her own. Her exquisite profile as refined as delicate etched glass made her look like a French doll.

If she didn't open her mouth, rather, if not for "that" personality of hers, everyone would see Taiga as a very beautiful young lady. Her large eyes with light-colored pupils move relaxedly, looking like a kitten as it opens its mouth, the palmtop tiger lets out a lovely yawn. At times when no one is looking, Taiga does have a most captivating face.

However, the calm arch of Taiga's eyebrows suddenly raised steeply. From the other side of the corner, loud footsteps can be heard. It seems to be coming towards this place.

Disliking such a noisy person -- ignoring her own shortcomings, Taiga pouts with irritation at once. At this rate they may collide at the corner.

......Or maybe not.

She did not try to change the route to an empty path nearby, this girl is called "the palmtop tiger" for a reason. Taiga absolutely walks where she wants to walk. Even if the other person is a guy from the sumo club or even if the other person is a teacher, she did not intend to change her way. She is walking properly, the other person is breaking the rules running, there is no reason to give way.

Resolutely sticking out her elbow sharply out, Taiga lowered her head, continuing to plunge towards the prey which approached quickly. And sure enough, the moment she reached the corner,

"Ow... oh!"

"There it is...... kiyaaaah!"

Crash, the elbow connected bluntly. The other party who was knocked over screams loudly and lands on their butt, sitting in the hall due to the force of momentum. Standing firmly like a rock, before the eyes of the unperturbed Taiga, the schoolgirl's rather short skirt opened and was exposed fully. Both her pure white thighs and the seams of her light blue underpants were 100% exposed.

"......ah ah ah uuunggh~!"

Noticing the embarrassing position, she hurriedly sat down in the hall panicking and cried out again, pulling down on the hem of her skirt. And expressing "ouch" while pressing down her considerable chest that is best seen from the above. But by pressing down too strongly, did she know that it further enhanced the rounded shape to become clearly visible?

For some unknown reason (without any explanation), an even deeper cruelty and malevolence appeared in Taiga's eyes, looking down at this figure.

"......You, pay attention"

"Ah, s.. s... sor......"

Realizing that her panties had been exposed to just another girl, she lifted her eyes in that instant with a tinge of relief. However, with a blink of an eye, she realized that it was "the Palmtop Tiger" that stood arrogantly in front of her.

"......te... te... te..., teno...... eeek!"

Her round cheeks lost all color of blood in that instant.

Between Taiga's eyebrows, furrows looking like sawblades appeared.

Not even apologizing for knocking into me. Instead acting frightened like a victim. I hate this kind of person the most. Incidentally, I also hate those irresponsibly big breasts. ......without stating any apparent reason.

”......Can't you even say "I'm sorry"? Or is it, in your world, the "te... te... te..., teno..." acts as a form of apology? Eh? What a barbarian!"

"o... o... o... urk!" (TL comment:the girl is trying to say "sorry")

"You're still not apologizing!"

To quickly settle this simple issue. Facing the frightened girl, Taiga ruthlessly stepped forward. Whether the other party is a guy or a girl makes no difference, Taiga's hostility to either was easily aroused. But at this moment, it felt like her foot was stepping on something.

"......?"

The girl who collided had dropped her notebook, and it was under Taiga's foot. She noticed it, and grimaced,

"Aaah...... Kota-kun's notebook...... the only symbol of our love......"

She cried out in despair. Tch, and Taiga clicked her tongue while, with some emphasis, picking it up with her hands, and playing with it in her hand without returning it,

"You're really good at acting as the victim......since having something so important stepped would make you cry, then you shouldn't have dropped it in the first place......."

Glaring through her glittering and brutal eyes, sizing up the girl from head to toe. Her nasal breath was rough with excitement going "ngggh nggggh", and blood rushes throughout fueling the serious malicious intent emanating from her body. "or-, or-, sor-", the female freshman cries tearfully, seemingly frozen in that spot.

A cruel smile twisted on the rosy lips of Taiga -- now then, let's see what we can do to this big-breasted girl with audacious panties that are fully exposed.

"What is it, Sakura?"

[[Image:Toradora_Spin-Off_303.jpg|thumb]]

From the other side of the corridor, a voice echoed coldly.

"Sis-, sister!”

The big breated girl who had her panties exposed stood up and ran away, hiding her body like a rabbit behind the girl who appeared. Taiga recognized that girl,

"......It's here......"

She muttered with very low voice. From her entire small body, the scent of danger from a one ton tiger emanates. All reason seems to disappear from her eyes -- Taiga hates this person the most.

"What have we here? ......Aah, Aisaka Taiga. You are Kitamura's friend, I believe. I,"

"......think."

The girl with waist-length flowing black hair, was cold and spoke rudely like a man, which did not match her good looks. Taiga knew her. It was the president of the student council.

The student council president works with Kitamura everyday, and often as cleaning volunteers, they walk alongside together, and Kitamura would smile happily without a word -- Taiga was bitterly jealous of that girl.

"You recognize me? ......Well then, why? Why are you bullying my younger sister? Can you give me a good explanation?"

Calmly, without showing even a trace of fear, with an indulgent smile, the obnoxious student council president asks Taiga.

"......Your younger sister?"

"Ah, this is my younger sister, Kanou Sakura, a freshman. ......Bullying an underclassman girl, as expected of the Palmtop Tiger, aren't we attacking easy prey?"

The big breasted panties girl hid behind the president of the student council, her body trembled going "pu ru pu ru". Taiga pointed at her without hesitation,

"Hey, as the elder sister, you should be ashamed of that exhibitionist. Your younger sister was running in this corridor, and crashed into the blameless me, rather than apologizing to me she spouts some crazy words and crying as if I were the one at fault, and now hides behind you."

"Hey. ......Sakura. Is this true?"

The big breasted panties girl was startled. She grimaced, and then looked up at her elder sister gasping,

"Mo... mo... more or less.... !"

As soon as she nodded, the top of her head was struck! Even Taiga felt a little sympathy seeing that merciless karate chop. With some uncertain steps, her back was pushed down in front of Taiga,

"Now, you've made me look bad! You should properly apologize! How long are you going to hide behind me!"

Having been yelled at with such a resounding voice. Tears formed at the corners of her eyes as she cowered down and looked up hesitantly,

"S.. s.. s-sorry...... I'm very sorry......Aisaka-senpai......"

In front of Taiga she bowed down deeply. "Keh", and Taiga snorted through her nose losing some of her fury, brushing her hair up and decided to forgive her this time, she starts to turn away.

But,

"Uhm... uhm.... no..., notebook...."

"......Huh!?"

At the sound of the soft voice, Taiga turned back again and her eyes filled with murderous intent. Although the big breasted panties girl shivered with fright, she didn't hide behind her elder sister again, even though both her legs were shaking, she desperately reached her hand out.

"Uhm, uhm, the notebook......? Please return it! It's not mine! I... it's from someone important, it's our only connection! I.. i... i'll do anything~!"

However that desperation, strikes at Taiga's heart......no, it lit an inherent fire of fury.

"SH... SH.. SHUT UP! You, to what degree do you want to falsely accuse me!? I just forgot about giving this to you! You think I would want something like this!?"

"Not!"

Taking the notebook in her hands, Taiga violently throws the notebook towards the throat of the big breasted panties girl, hitting back like a butcher.

While trying to catch the notebook the big breasted panties girl fell down on her knees groaning painfully. "Aaaah", hitting her elbow while the student council president looks on, Taiga turned around and started to leave.

But just at that instant, something jumped deliberately right into Taiga's sight.

On the cover of the notebook with the distinct 22.5 cm shoeprint in the hands of the big breasted pants girl, the owner's name was clearly written with a felt-tip pen. ------"1-A Tomiie Kota".

＊　＊　＊

”Waaah~, today it's somewhat extravagant~! Ryu-chan, how many prawns are there?"

"3 pieces per person"

"Yay~, yay~"

Having completed her makeup except for the lipstick, with a hot curler still attached to her brightly dyed hair, Ryuuji's mother - Yasuko, wearing a pink camisole and Ryuuji's old middle-school jersey (track) pants and her huge breasts swaying wildly.

The innocent child-like face happily holding the chopsticks, looked like a young girl with her makeup, with beautifully painted rosy pink glossy nails, her hair flowing over her smooth collarbone, highlighting her feminine charms with a sweet scent that emitted from Yasuko's skin more suitable for her real age and her evening work.

"Properly eat the vegetables too, ok? And also the shiso."

"Tempura shiso, I loooo~ve it! Ryu-chan too, I loooo~ve!"

At the narrow and low dining table, like peeking through a sheer cloth the colorful vegetables can be seen as well as Ryuuji's wonderful tempura all lined up. In the miso soup, there is tofu, daikon (radish/turnip), vegetables; the steamed rice mixed with five spices; and today's side dish, pickled eggplants --- grown in secret in the school's gardens. As for the tempura sauce, lemon juice, or grated daikon, or anything to suit the personal taste.

Half past 6 in the evening, Takasu family living room. Sitting around the low dining table were Ryuuji, Yasuko, and Taiga, ready to have their usual dinner.

"Bon appetit", they all said together, Yasuko reached over for the prawn, Ryuuji brought the miso soup to his mouth. Taiga's chopsticks hovered over the prawns, but why is she hesitating?

"Hey, move your chopsticks."

Ryuuji scowled. But Taiga just grimaced, without any retort, and just like that stopped moving.

"......What is it?"

"......What's the matter? Taiga-chan?"

Even though she was being asked by both mother and son Taiga remains seated rigidly. "......", keeping her mouth shut. The usual Taiga would have taken even Ryuuji's share of the main course together when she extended her chopsticks. Yasuko was concerned, and put down her chopsticks,

”I see... I see..., sorry ＊ Ya-chan absolutely looo~ves Taiga-chan~ ＊"

"Huh"

Swoosh, and Taiga was hugged tightly. She kissed, "tsup tsup tsuuuup". Being buried between those huge breasts Taiga couldn't make a sound, before long, her small hands pushed painfully with a pitter-patter sound.

"I can't breathe! I can't breathe!"

"Aaaahh......"

At the time she was released, she gasped for air and simultaneously collapsed onto the seat futon (zabuton). After a little while, not wanting Ryuuji and Yasuko to worry about her, she slowly straightened her body.

"......No.., nothing. Actually, I just a little bit......don't really feel like eating anything."

"You don't have any appetite!?"

"That is just so~"

"......Even me, even when I'm slightly ill, I would still have it! ......this, take this. and this too."

Taiga passed a prawn towards Yasuko, another towards Ryuuji, and the other one left, after being dipped in the tempura sauce, she gingerly brought to her own small mouth like trying out the taste.

"Don't force yourself to eat. Are you really okay?"

Taking a bite, Taiga nodded her head while sprinkling salt, adding more. She paused and continued eating it as it was.

"......Don't worry. I can eat this. Delicious."

Also taking in a mouthful of white rice.

"Shouldn't you probably take back the prawn? You should savor it since you're able to eat. You see shrimp on our dining table only once a year~"

"It's ok, after eating the vegetables I'm already good."

After eating one prawn, Taiga's appetite seemed to have improved, as she also drank the miso soup. And so Ryuuji was relieved,

"Shiso can be considered medicine. You should take more."

The platter of mint was turned so that it faced Taiga. Taiga nodded, and took one piece to her mouth immediately. She seemed to like it, and took another piece.

In the end, Taiga also ate the other vegetable tempura, the pickled vegetables, the miso soup, and also some rice (this is a very rare situation, as she normally can easily finish three bowls), for the time being we have finished eating.

Yasuko also felt relieved after seeing that, and headed out to work taking the Chanel bag that she always treasured.

-- Disaster struck several hours later.

"......Ryuuji......I......may be dying......"

Ryuuji turns his head upon hearing this shocking statement, it was already after 10 in the evening.

As usual they were relaxing after eating and having a good time, folding a cushion in half and spreading it, the two of them were carelessly lying flat down on the tatami mat watching television. Neither of them did anything, they begin to fall asleep.

"......I'm dying......"

"Wh......what?"

Noticing Taiga behind Ryuuji, she seemed to have sprawled down awkwardly, somewhat like toppling sideways holding her stomach, her complexion very pale. Although Taiga has always been very fair-skinned, her skin tone now was a tinge of pale beige, she was very pale. Ryuuji hurriedly got up, crawling over causing Taiga's hair to scatter on the tatami with his knees.

"How is it!? Is it a stomach-ache!?"

"I-.. it hurts... a... lot...."

"Do you need to go to the toilet? Can you stand? Are you going to throw up?!"

"Toilet...... I don't think the pain is that bad......"

Wheezing and coughing, she vomited, Taiga softly shivered. Traces of cold sweat form on her damp forehead, it was quite cold.

"Is it your stomach!?"

"I-..., I don't know...... it just hurts..... here."

Around the navel of the dress which has a repeating cotton lace pattern which expands softly, she strokes that area with her small hand. Ryuuji realized clearly, this is quite serious.

"w-, we should go to the hospital!"

Inside the birdcage placed in a corner of the living room, a disfigured parrot called inko-chan also chimed "that's right!" while nodding with the whites of its eyes bulging.

"Oh yes, ambulance......must call the ambulance!"

"I-, i-, isn't that a bit exaggerated....?"

"But you can't walk, right!? Aren't you dying!?"

"Calling an ambulance just for a stomach-ache......don't......I-... I can cope......uuugh~......"

Taiga strained her voice, and twisted her body to try to endure the pain. It can't be helped---Ryuuji quickly opened the phonebook, verifying that the nearby university hospital had night time emergency facilities, dialed the phone while taking his wallet and the health insurance card and putting them in his pocket.

"Oh! use my insurance card!"

The trembling became more apparent. The health insurance card was taken out and inserted into the slanting back pocket, carrying the light body of the weary Taiga who was lying down. Taiga was silent, like a ventriloquist's doll being carried in the arms of Ryuuji, her face pressed against his shoulders,

"......nngh......nnggh......"

While enduring the pain she moaned softly.

Impatiently locking the door with the housekey, Ryuuji rushed out from the front door even though he was only wearing his sandals. Making loud "kang kang" noise that rang on the iron stairs as he ran down, carrying Taiga to the main street to catch a taxi,

"Sorry, there's someone sick here! Would you mind letting us go ahead!?"

Jumping out in front of an older office worker who had just stopped a taxi, he pleaded. Under the light that shone on Ryuuji's evil-looking sanpaku eyes, the older man felt threatened, and dropped his bag out of instinctive fear, and took one step back,

"Thank you very much!"

Ryuuji interpreted that as a "Yes", and slides in the open taxi door. Informing the name of the university hospital and screaming, "Hurry, this person is sick!" to the driver, who adjusted the rearview mirror and nodded many times. Understanding the circumstance, he realized it was not a car-jacking.

"Taiga, hang in there! We're almost there!"

Taiga could not even sit properly, but instead could only lie prone on Ryuuji's lap, even now trembling due to the pain.

So pitiful -- no matter how she verbally abused him, or the violent treatment he received, they were kindred who ate meals out of the same pot. Taiga was really a girl after all. Ryuuji could see that she was patiently enduring the pain, trying not to cry out loud. And so he brushed her long hair gently that has become disheveled.

Just what on earth is going on? Is it food poisoning, appendicitis, or is it some other worse disease?

"......dead......"

"id-, idiot! Stop saying you're dead or dying! Saying such words will only make things worse!"

"......You're wrong......It's not me....That fellow......"

Maybe he is dead.

While lying on Ryuuji's knee, Taiga was babbling incoherently. Maybe it was playing dead, that fellow, that black tomcat, or maybe it really is dead. Then perhaps, this is its curse.

"Wh~.., what? What do you mean?"

"......Uhm, female freshman......final memento, those words......that thing......after death, that relic, that maybe....oh"

"That freshman's, uhm......are you talking about the incident this morning?"

It was when Ryuuji was in the middle of harvesting the shiso and eggplants when Taiga encountered that incident in the school building with the freshman girl. Ryuuji heard about it while they were on their way home.

"I..... stepped on it at that time, that notebook......because it was too ominous, I didn't say a word......that-, that thing, was......[Tomiie Kota's] property......"

Can it be? Ryuuji instinctively stares around the ear of Taiga who's facing down. He knew Tomiie Kota. He is a close junior of Kitamura, a freshman in the student council, and is Taiga's so-called "black tomcat" -- they say misfortune will follow when a black cat crosses one's path. In Taiga's case, it was Tomiie Kota in particular, who is the black cat that brought about this misfortune. Every time Tomiie Kota appears before Taiga, some unbelievable misfortune seems to happen to Taiga.

Her lunch sandwich would be trampled. The canned coffee would fly out of the machine and slam into her head. When cutting the tail of a fried horse mackerel, it gets stuck onto her forehead, this can also be attributed to him; when she was walking from school, she would get hit by a dropped eraser; sometimes soya milk would be sprayed onto her face -- it's because he is Kitamura's junior, and simply for this one reason that he is able to still survive, if not because of this, Taiga would have already personally delivered that insolent underclassman to hell.

Ryuuji also knew about this very well. Those encounters with Taiga were probably also miserable and unfortunate occurrences for him. But then,

"The-, the-, therefore, why the hell did this curse......"

"He's dead......that fellow, is dead......soul in that notebook......I, stepped on that......?"

Taiga's body continued shivering weakly. Her fingers grasping Ryuuji's kneecaps through the trousers felt icy-cold,

"......It keeps following......that fellow's, bad luck, through his spirit.....ugh......"

Taiga continued to moan, the sound of her suffering echoing in the silent taxi.

＊　＊　＊

"For nighttime emergency medical diagnosis and treatment, it can be troublesome unless you telephone first, don't you think?"

......At last, we're here. While Ryuuji was carrying the trembling Taiga to the reception counter, she murmured for the first time:

"Th~, that being said......I'm sorry. And so..., uhm..., can we get this medical examination started?"

"What was that?"

The woman in a business attire with the strange thick makeup was a bit unnerved in front of Ryuuji's scary face, carrying Taiga carefully and looking up. Taiga seemed to be already at death's door, and could not respond to the situation,

"It seems to be a stomachache. She was already feeling ill before the meal, and it seems to have become very bad a few minutes after eating!"

"What did she eat-?"

"Tempura!"

"......Tempura!?"

Ha!

And, I heard a snort that sounded like a nasal laugh -- hopefully it was just my imagination. The woman tossed a sheet of paper forward from the counter,

"Here, please fill this-"

And even after being told that, his arm didn't move, but remained holding onto Taiga. Ryuuji cut the woman off and carefully laid Taiga down on the sofa of the lobby. Even though Taiga's eyes were closed, she doesn't lose consciousness, gritting her teeth to endure the pain with an expression of anguish. The fluorescent light were turned off; only small electric lamps dimly illuminated the spacious lobby. There were no sign of any other patients, and voices echoed strangely.

"Pl-, pl-, please lend me a pen."

After a cold glare, a pen was rolled across the counter with the "cara cara" sound echoing.

In any case; name and address (the house number of the building next to Ryuuji's home should be correct, right?), symptom, I scribbled it hurriedly,

"Er-, uh, is the insurance card good by tomorrow?"

"Please wait over there on the sofa-"

His question wasn't answered either, and the paper wasn't looked at also, the woman just casually tossed it into an unknown box at the side. What kind of treatment is this? He wanted to ask, but it seemed better to just obey that woman's instructions and wait. Ryuuji went back to Taiga who moaned, and sat down beside her, but somehow, had an inexplicable idea.

This place, it's no different from the jungle.

......Isn't it? Should he take her to another place before it's too late? That woman at the reception counter is certainly not a doctor or a nurse, but her symptoms are very dire, it's probably better to find out her condition now. Glancing quietly at the suffering Taiga, however, luck seemed to change in that moment of hesitation.

"Aisaka-san, please!"

A voice called from the examination room, and soon that woman approached us pushing a wheelchair with a clattering sound.

"Please ride in this-"

Taiga opened her eyes slightly, and reflexively twisted her body and tried to escape as if sensing something foreboding, the woman quickly reached across and with Ryuuji's help, grasped the child and placed her onto the wheelchair. The woman than pushed the wheelchair efficiently into the examination room. Ryuuji hastily pursued after them.

This is the patient-, the woman announced immediately, and the open door of the examination room started closing automatically.

Gaaa! Just as the doors were closing, he grabbed onto Taiga's leg and faltered. Ignoring both the wheezing Ryuuji and the silent Taiga, the woman calmly opened the door,

"Please, go in!"

Without warning, she pushed the wheelchair in and lets it go,

"Aiyee!"

Taiga's careening wheelchair was caught with the foot of a slipper by a young man in a white coat -- why is his head shaven, this doctor. He examined Taiga's leg while smiling amiably,

"What seems to be the problem-? ah, this leg? Is it painful, if that's the case I can surely heal it quickly."

"That was caused by banging on that door just now! It's stomachache!"

If Ryuuji didn't immediately say something, the doctor would probably only examine the leg and send them home afterwards. Ah, abdominal pain? How much? And the doctor put on the stethoscope to listen to the stomach of Taiga.

But Taiga's bulky cotton lace clothes had too many frills, piled up to the point of death (also known as Furi Furi one-piece virtue). Seeing this, the doctor shook his head, as if he could not understand where to open it.

"Hah! I give up. Lie down on the examination table for a while-, put your head here-, yes, yes, that's it"

The wheelchair's brakes weren't engaged. Taiga trembled as she endured the pain struggling while slowly transferring to the examination table. The doctor only read the medical chart without noticing anything else. Ryuuji being flustered, tried to lend a hand to Taiga, but,

"Ah, are you with her? her relative-?"

"Eh? uhm... no, a friend......"

Suddenly being asked by that doctor, Ryuuji turned his head around, in that instant, Taiga fell off the swiveling wheelchair that slipped. And she hit the hard floor with a dull thumping sound.

"Oh! Ta-, Taiga!"

"......uh......"

Clinging onto the wobbling consultation seat, Taiga stands up with a dazed look, quietly rubbing her forehead. The doctor then joked,

"Aha ha ha ha ha~, what are you doing!? Is that where it hurts~!? What's the~"

The doctor seem to jokingly place the stethoscope on the forehead, until he noticed the evil eyes of Ryuuji who stared in utter amazement at this unbelievable scene.

"......You-, your face, isn't it scary~! Can you go away for a little while so as not to distract me!? It's really scaring me~!"

"Eh......bu~, but......"

"It's ok, it's ok! Just wait over there!"

He was chased off up to the doorway of the examination room and almost totally pushed out. The curtain is closed, the view of Taiga passed out of sight. But how can he leave that seemingly useless doctor and Taiga alone together? He regretfully chews on his fingernails,

"......"

"......"

Looking around, an elementary schoolboy was sitting in the corner of the examination room. He had asthmatic spasm but still raised and opens his mouth widely to inhale some steam, arms crossed with a "Nobody else is allowed to fiddle with this" posture while tightly hugging the machine. His eyes were glazed over like dead fish slowly losing freshness -- perhaps, it's not only due to the illness that he is fatigued.

It was absolutely a mistake to have come here, realizing this now.

"Aaargh!"

Taiga's tearful voice echoed. Just like the scream of a bear caught in a trap.

"It's alright, it's alright, I'm just drawing a little blood! Ah, failed again. ......tch! What the shit!. ......this time for sure......still nothing, tch! Can't find the vein, wait a minute,"

"Aaaah, aaahh, aaaaaaahhh~!"

"I'm just looking for the vein......tch! No, this is no good! Switching to the other arm, this is also useless, tch! tch! shit!"

The sounds echoing in the consultation room were scarier than anything in the world. As the terrifying voice of Taiga came to a halt, Ryuuji was left standing petrified. The tongue-click noise continues, making him want to cover his ears, but the fact was he brought Taiga here himself. He could not avert his eyes from that scary responsibility...... Well, let's stop this already, I have to tell him to stop this. And then I have to get her out of here and go to another place.

With that determination he opens the curtain,

"Ha! I got it... I got it! With this it shouldn't hurt so much anymore, once we can examine the blood we should be able to determine if there was infection inside the stomach, you can rest assured from this blood check-!"

The syringe was full of Taiga's somewhat strange looking dark colored blood. The doctor smiled proudly after such a difficult ordeal,

"There, just wait a little bit! Here, take this as an apology for the pain caused!"

He took out a candy from the pocket of his white coat, unwrapping it and dropping it in the mouth of Taiga which remained half-open without moving. Taiga grabbed Ryuuji's hand suddenly, and coughed out the candy. The candy rolled a bit in Ryuuji's hand before becoming stuck. ......That's understandable, but, on the other hand, Ryuuji was feeling troubled. If a person comes to the hospital with a painful stomach, why would you give them candy??

After all this, we were told we had to go back to the sofa of the waiting room again for another 20 minutes. Taiga plopped herself down and occasionally groaned, and continued to shiver slightly and rubbed circles on her stomach desperately. The inner side of her left arm was quickly bruising. Absorbent cotton was taped to the inner side of her right arm, a seemingly impossible amount of blood seeping into it. Her eyes glazed over lifelessly, and her complexion became terribly pasty.

"......Taiga. Hey......"

"......"

There was no response. Her voice doesn't come out anymore either. Her lips were parched dry and cracked, but maybe because she also bit on them to endure the pain, that's why it is bleeding a bit. The truth was, she surely looked worse now then before coming to this place.

It can't be helped, but the cause of the stomach pain must be discovered, and it must be treated,

"Uhm, ahem~, I'm not really sure!"

From behind, incoherent voices conversed idly.

With a sinking feeling, Ryuuji looks back at that doctor standing behind him. In his hand was an intravenous bag that he was going to hang onto a metal support .

"That blood we drew just now, it won't be able to help us determine the cause of the stomachache!"

"Wo~, wo~, won't be able......"

"But it will help us to determine that there is no inflammation of the appendix. On the other hand, this may be something that we can't just treat at an emergency ward!"

Huh! Feeling dismayed at this time in the face of the smiling doctor, while discreetly keeping Taiga behind him, Ryuuji desperately questioned the doctor.

"If it's not intestinal, then, could it be some women's issue, for example gynecological problems......"

"If that's the case, that would not be considered a health emergency, unfortunately! If you really want to know what is wrong, please come back during regular hours to consult a general practitioner. Oh yes, as this is a university hospital, there is no referral, so it can be quite expensive!"

"So~, somehow could it be catarrh or...... those things are......"

"That-is-why~, she did not have diarrhea, right!? Nor did she she throw up, right!? Even though you have come to the emergency room, we were still unable to treat it! There is no bleeding in her stomach, and there is no symptom that warrants treatment at an emergency ward! Is it is food poisoning, there doesn't seem to be any such acute symptoms! Neither is it constipation! And it doesn't seem to be gas! Anyway, the only thing noticeable is that she is in pain but cannot elaborate what is the pain, so...this!"

And why do you seem to be so happy, or is it merely the night shifts causing you to have high emotional tension, the doctor just pointed at the intravenous drip. Picking up the readied tube, and as soon as the cap of the needle was removed,

"This is pain-killer! Ah, this is good, a needle was left in a while ago just in case something like this might happen. This child, her blood vessels are quite difficult to find~"

The cotton on the inner right arm of Taiga was peeled off. Blood was gradually seeping out......the needle on the rubber-like mouth still remained stuck. Eehhh......but Ryuuji took a few steps back, unable to do anything. The doctor worked in front of Ryuuji, with great skill and dexterity, adjusted the rate of the intravenous drip,

"When the drip runs out, call me!"

"......He~, here, leave the IV drip here......? This, in the lobby?"

"There will probably be other patients, therefore we must keep the examination room free. Because sometimes serious injuries do arrive"

"......That sounds terrible......"

"Like ruptured intestine."

Not really caring about stories about injuries to internal organs, and nonchalantly divulging such findings, the doctor finished by turning back to the examination room. This university hospital certainly has a reputation as a very advanced lifesaving institution; it is one of Japan's leading hospitals. It's only logical that such serious cases would be sent here.

However, I do get it, and Ryuuji incidentally also came to an unusual understanding. An excellent doctor will surely be assigned to more urgent lifesaving situations, this young doctor with seemingly less skills might have been left behind here. Oh my, although this is just the imaginings of a selfish layman, judging by the suitability of that unnecessary examination~

"Taiga!?"

Looking over suddenly, Ryuuji shouted shrilly. Rashes were appearing all over the entire body of Taiga to which the painkiller was administered, especially from the inner arm where the needle of the IV drip is stuck. The hives could be seen spreading quickly, connecting together forming large masses of rashes,

"Oh, oh, OH......EMERGENCY! TAIGA! someone help!"

"......oou~, aaaargh......"

"Someone please come and help!"

Mouth gaping wide and wailing beside Ryuuji, Taiga noticed the IV drip needle inserted in her arm for the first time.

"Wh~, what~......can't breathe.....whew~! This......wha~......ooow......whew~!"

"Taiga, hang in there! This is the drug to stop the pain!"

"......Tch, stop... pain..., drug......I......"

"Wheeze wheeze" sounded like from a high-pitched whistle was emanating from the throat of Taiga. Her body was twisted in pain. Her airway narrowed. The doctor and several nurses hurried over, looking at Taiga's face, and at that instant "bong!" and the eyelid can be seen swelling up,

"Oh, this is bad"

"I am allergic to pain-killers..."

--These few words squeaked out with great difficulty on Taiga's scant breath. Well then, is this an allergic reaction? Doctor, why didn't you first inquire about allergies? And, why was the intravenous drip administered without obtaining the patient's consent?

But Ryuuji did not know yet. Of course Taiga did not know either. Neither did the nurses nor the doctor know. Already on the floor above, on this hospital's second floor, a new misery......no, the curse of the black cat had already begun to carve its way to bring more terror for Taiga.

Second floor, at the public telephone at the nurse's station.

A high school freshman who is hospitalized with bone fractures in many places all over his body, grasping several 10 yen coins in his hand, paces back and forth unceasingly in front of the nurse's station since a little while ago.

What is it, Tomiie-kun? Want to telephone your girlfriend? Don't have a telephone card?

What is it? What is it? You do have a girlfriend!?

Eh? What kind of person is she? Girlie gal? Clean and innocent? Come on, come on, unless you call her quickly the grandma of ward 402 will be on the phone again for a long time.

We won't listen in, we're not listening in! See, we are not straining up our ears to eavesdrop.

Go ahead, go ahead, everyone encouraged~!

He was extremely hesitant and awkward but in the end, he only called home after all, and asked for some change of pants, and quickly left the nurses' station afterwards. He was not yet mature enough to be able to call the girl he likes in front of those working elder sisters.

At that time, the remaining 10 yen coin that he tightly clasped was accidentally dropped. The coin went "clink clank" as it bounded and rolled down the stairs, it was impossible to pick up as it rolled down and ended on the first floor before you could say "ah". Although it was only a 10 yen coin, money is still money, so he ran after it in a hurry, running all the way down to the lobby on the first floor. The rolling coin made a "korokoro" sound was still being chased, began to roll on to a deserted corridor.

As she was placed on the stretcher, Taiga was already quickly losing consciousness. She knew that she was having a lengthy bout of severe allergy. The mucous membrane of her eyes, inside of her mouth and trachea swelled up more and more, and became hot and itchy, and caused her to shiver. The abdominal pain became more severe, and a dark fog seemed to start to drift in front of her vision gradually.

Shouldn't Ryuuji be by her side? Desperately twisting her neck, and so Taiga saw that thing.

The moving stretcher was heading towards a T-shaped corridor.

From the left side onto the right, whoa, and it ran right through.

A death flag -- these words came to Taiga's mind. Because of that fellow, that fellow probably resembles that black tomcat who should already be dead.

"Wha~!?"

The first to cry out was a nurse. "kachink", and suddenly something small and hard got caught in between one of the wheels of the speeding stretcher. The wheel on one side of the stretcher stopped causing the stretcher to spin 180 degrees on its axle, sandwiching the nurse onto the wall, while the doctor's foot was run over by the stretcher that kept going forward due the inclined floor, causing him to stumble. Then Ryuuji also stumbled into that mass of people and hits his jaw on the floor, and then Taiga, who was suffering from severe allergic reaction and stomachache, flew through the air at great force -- the sudden stop of the stretcher threw her violently onto the wall causing her to bounce off it, and then she landed butt-first in the middle of the potted plants.

The last thing that Taiga saw was the overturned stretcher and, crushed underneath it, a mass of people like dumplings.

For a minute after all that, no one made a sound, it was just a catastrophe. After all, for a 10 yen coin to cause such a disaster, it's something that's unimaginable.

＊　＊　＊

Eventually, an appropriate dosage of medication was given that treated Taiga's allergy before the day ended, and after calming down, her stomachache also decreased. Taking a taxi home, Ryuuji also sent Taiga up to the entrance of her home, and by the time Ryuuji also fell asleep, it is morning.

"This is not right~!"

In Taiga's apartment, it was unusual to find Ryuuji and Yasuko there. It was different here from the Takasu residence, the dazzling morning sunlight streamed into the room, Yasuko's carefree voice echoed in the room.

Ryuuji had mailed (SMSed) details about last night's events, and Yasuko didn't drink much, and instead had come home earlier. Guessing that it was almost time for Taiga to wake up, the two of them came to visit her together.

"......Because yesterday I didn't come up here, I didn't notice......"

"Taiga-chan, you must restrain yourself a little~"

Taiga, dressed in pajamas, looked embarrassed and stared at the Takasus quietly from the doorway of the bedroom while chewing on her sleeve (making soft gajigaji sounds) and fidgeting her bare feet on top of the rug.

In the large living room of Taiga's apartment, the marks of Taiga's horrible lifestyle were in evidence all around. First of all, two empty ice cream cups were left on the tea table. And also left inside were cheap popsicle sticks among the garbage. An empty potato chip bag was left on the stylish corner counter where the extravagant 42-inch television was placed, and a pudding cup was left on the kitchen island. Also a yogurt cup. The remains of the rare cheesecake from the specialty store were audaciously left on top of the sofa.

"......Are these... from yesterday... by yourself? Kushieda didn't come to visit?"

Yup, and Taiga nodded.

"After coming back from school? Before dinner?"

Yup, and Taiga again kept nodding.

They also found a milk tea PET bottle that rolled across the rug surprising Yasuko who was dressed in a jersey. She then lightly rapped Taiga on the head.

"You ate too much, no matter how one puts it, this is~. Taiga-chan! It's not good like this!"

"......I'm sorry......"

Obligingly, Taiga hung her head in shame. Her cheeks still had traces of the rash. Recalling the events of last night, Ryuuji couldn't bring himself to get angry with her now, but still was disgusted and began cleaning up the garbage.

"So, how's your stomach?"

"......After a night's sleep, it seems to be okay now......Now i'm hungry......"

That's it.

However Yasuko just laughed wryly, "Already? I guess it can't be helped though~☆ but, I'm glad you're well now", while rubbing Taiga's cheek gently with her own cheek. With Taiga now safe, her heart was relieved and delighted. And she continued to rub Taiga's cheek with her own bare cheek (without makeup).

"That's right, after we've cleaned this place up, we'll take your insurance card and go back to the hospital, then we can all go for breakfast~! McDonald's breakfast? Sudoba breakfast? Ya-chan just got paid so I can treat you to whatever you want~!"

"Hooray! Sudoba breakfast! Morning caramel toast!"

Taiga almost lept up in agreement, undoing her braided long hair that was tied up for sleeping as she went back into her room and closed the door, immediately changing her clothes the minute she went inside.

Ryuuji lightly glared at Yasuko in reaction,

"......Aren't you pampering her too much?"

After hearing this, Yasuko also rubbed Ryuuji's cheeks with her own cheek, just like what she did to Taiga a while ago. Realizing how much of a "mother complex" this seems, but this action......so Ryuuji gently pulled away, and Yasuko's eyes narrowed as she laughed.

"Ryu-chan, you did great~! Taking Taiga to the hospital properly, and bringing her back properly......yup, properly keeping the house, you're quite capable~! That's great! That's great! You're quite the man!"

"......"

Now what!?

While thinking.

While tossing the trash into the garbage bag, he hung his head down, slightly embarrassed. Inside Taiga's bedroom, she had almost completely taken off her pajama's trousers, BANG, a heavy thud, "OUCH!" came the awkward voice. What is it?, he calls in, do not come in you horny dog! among other things.

She seems to be back to normal at the very least, I guess.

By the way, the amount of money that Taiga paid to the hospital, including the various examination and lab fees, in the end came up to an enormous sum. So much so that the Takasu family of Ryuuji and Yasuko, and even the ostensibly rich Taiga, wordlessly expressed surprise to the accounts section woman with a frown and glare.

Looking back towards the imposing university hospital on the way back home, though it might be because of the tragic experiences they have had that they looked at it through unpleasant eyes, for some reason there was a threatening aura like it was about to release some turbulence about it. For example, even though the weather today is fine, it is the kind of midsummer's day with a deep blue sky and sunshine that grills the eyes, yet why is it that there is a dark cloud visibly hanging just directly above that hospital?

Shouldn't a hospital ward not even have a death god? As Taiga muttered with disgust, she made a new determination that she would never be coming back a second time.

Passing the supposed dead black tomcat, surprising Taiga to the extent that she spews the milk she was drinking, the heat of summer hasn't cooled down yet but it was the beginning of a new school term.

The End.

Toradora!

2009-12-13T03:23:49Z

RonnieCorny: /* Spin-Off - The Cherry Colored Tornado of Happiness */

[[Image:Toradora! novel cover.jpg|200px|thumb|Volume 01 cover.]]
Toradora! (とらドラ！) project page. Everyone is welcome.

You can also read the Toradora series in these languages:

*[[Toradora! (German)|Deutsch (German)]]
*[[Toradora! (Greek)|Ελληνικά (Greek)]]
*[[Toradora (Italian)|Italiano (Italian)]]
*[[Toradora! (Russian)|Русский (Russian)]]
*[[Toradora! (Español)|Español (Spanish)]]
*[[Toradora (Saling Tagalog)|Wikang Tagalog (Tagalog)]]
*[[Toradora! (Turkish)|Türkçe (Turkish)]]

(Note: Translation progress varies for each version.)

==Story Synopsis==

Takasu Ryuuji begins his second year of high school trying to look his best. However, there is one thing that torments him: despite his gentle personality he has inherited his gangster father's intimidating eyes, which often leads to misunderstandings by his classmates. But all that is about to change, on the first day of the new school term he accidentally bumps into the most dangerous being in school - Aisaka Taiga, also known as the Palmtop Tiger. Despite her diminutive appearance, Taiga has a very negative attitude and has left a "bloody trail" wherever she goes, hence her nickname.

After his unfortunate encounter with Taiga, Ryuuji does his best to avoid her. Yet by chance he discovers that Taiga has a crush on his best friend Kitamura Yuusaku, while Taiga finds out about his crush on her best friend Kushieda Minori. And so Taiga decides to let Ryuuji help her hook up with Kitamura as her "personal servant", and in return, Taiga will help Ryuuji get closer to Minori.

Due to Ryuuji's obsession with cleanliness and the close proximity of Taiga's apartment block, besides sleeping, Taiga ends up spending most of her time at Ryuuji's place. Over time, Ryuuji witnesses a side of Taiga that people normally don't see, and their relationship becomes so close that rumours begin to spread about whether they are going out as a couple.

Thus begins the clash between the Tiger and the Dragon - Toradora!

== Translation ==

=== [[Toradora!:Registration Page|Registration]] ===

Those who wish to contribute are asked to first notify a supervisor beforehand.

'''Translators are asked to [[Toradora!:Registration Page|register]] which chapters they're working on'''

===Format Standards===
'''Every Chapter (after editing) must conform to the general format guidelines.'''
*[[Format_guideline|General Format/Style Guideline]]
*[[Toradora!: Naming Conventions|Toradora! Naming Conventions]]

==Updates==
*May 24, 2009 - Volume 8 Chapter 2 completed.
*May 28, 2009 - Volume 4 Author's Notes completed.
*May 29, 2009 - Volume 8 Chapter 3 completed.
*June 1, 2009 - Volume 7 Author's Notes completed.
*Sep 28, 2009 - Volume 5 Chapter 5 completed.
*Oct 12, 2009 - Volume 5 Chapter 6 completed.
*Oct 14, 2009 - Volume 9 Chapter 2 completed.
*Oct 29, 2009 - Volume 5 Chapter 7 completed.
*Oct 29, 2009 - Volume 5 Author's Notes completed.
Older updates can be found on the [[Toradora!:_Updates|Toradora! Updates page]].

==The ''Toradora!'' series by [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yuyuko_Takemiya Yuyuko Takemiya]==

===Volume 1 [[Toradora!:Volume1|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Toradora!:Volume1_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume1_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume1_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume1_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume1_Chapter4|Chapter 4]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume1_Chapter5|Chapter 5]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume1_Chapter6|Chapter 6]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume1_Author's Notes|Author's Notes]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume1_Translator's Notes| Translator's Notes and References]]

===Volume 2 [[Toradora!:Volume2|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Toradora!:Volume2_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume2_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume2_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume2_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume2_Chapter4|Chapter 4]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume2_Chapter5|Chapter 5]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume2_Chapter6|Chapter 6]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume2_Spin-off|Spin-off]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume2_Author's Notes|Author's Notes]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume2_Translator's Notes| Translator's Notes and References]]

===Volume 3 [[Toradora!:Volume3|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Toradora!:Volume3_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume3_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume3_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume3_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume3_Chapter4|Chapter 4]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume3_Chapter5|Chapter 5]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume3_Author's Notes|Author's Notes]]

===Volume 4 [[Toradora!:Volume4|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Toradora!:Volume4_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume4_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume4_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume4_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume4_Chapter4|Chapter 4]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume4_Chapter5|Chapter 5]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume4_Chapter6|Chapter 6]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume4_Author's Notes|Author's Notes]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume4_Translator's Notes| Translator's Notes and References]]

===Volume 5 [[Toradora!:Volume5|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Toradora!:Volume5_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume5_Prologue|Prologue]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume5_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume5_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume5_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume5_Chapter4|Chapter 4]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume5_Chapter5|Chapter 5]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume5_Chapter6|Chapter 6]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume5_Chapter7|Chapter 7]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume5_Author's Notes|Author's Notes]]

===Volume 6 [[Toradora!:Volume6|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Toradora!:Volume6_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume6_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume6_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume6_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume6_Chapter4|Chapter 4]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume6_Chapter5|Chapter 5]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume6_Chapter6|Chapter 6]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume6_Author's notes|Author's notes]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume6_Translator's Notes| Translator's Notes and References]]

===Volume 7 [[Toradora!:Volume7|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Toradora!:Volume7_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume7_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume7_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume7_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume7_Chapter4|Chapter 4]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume7_Chapter5|Chapter 5]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume7_Author's Notes|Author's Notes]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume7_Translator's Notes| Translator's Notes and References]]

===Volume 8===
::*[[Toradora!:Volume8_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume8_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume8_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume8_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume8_Chapter4|Chapter 4]] (33%)
::*Chapter 5
::*Chapter 6
::*Author's Notes

===Volume 9===
::*[[Toradora!:Volume9_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume9_Prologue|Prologue]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume9_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume9_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*Chapter 3
::*Chapter 4
::*Chapter 5
::*Author's Notes

===Volume 10===
::*[[Toradora!:Volume10_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Prologue
::*Chapter 1
::*Chapter 2
::*Chapter 3
::*Chapter 4
::*Chapter 5
::*Author's Notes

===Spin-Off - The Cherry Colored Tornado of Happiness===
::*[[Toradora!:Spin-Off_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*The Cherry Colored Tornado of Happiness
:::*Part 1 - Trigger Mechanism
:::*Part 2 - Emergency Alert Issued
:::*Part 3 - F12 Tornado
::*[[Toradora!:Spin-Off_Legend of the Black Catboy of Misfortune|Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune]] (100% - ready for editing)
::*[[Toradora!:Spin-Off_Author's_Notes|Author's Notes]]

===Spin-Off 2 虎、肥ゆる秋===
::*[[Toradora!:Spin-Off_2_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*虎、肥ゆる秋
::*春になったら群馬に行こう！
::*THE END OF なつやすみ
::*秋がきたから畑に行こう！
::*先生のお気に入り

===Alternative Adaptation===

This script is considered an adaptation by [[user:caster13|Caster13]] who is using our script to adapt it into contemporary fluent English with appropriate English context.

Think of it as a English Spin-off based on Toradora!

You can read [[user:caster13|Caster13]] adaptation at [http://inky-text.livejournal.com/7571.html Livejournal The Literary Works of Caster] and/or discuss this adaptation on the forum [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/viewtopic.php?f=53&t=2435 here]

::*[[Toradora! ~Adaptation~:Volume1_Chapter1|Preview - Chapter 01- ]]

==Project Staff==

*Project Administrator:
*Project Supervisor:

===Translators===

:*[[user:Kinny_Riddle|Kinny Riddle]]
:*[[user:Trabius|Trabius]]
:*[[user:Pliky|Pliky]]
:*[[user:Dragonst|Dragonst]]

===Editors===

:*[[user:Dan|Dan]]
:*[[user:Chansey|Chansey]]
:*[[user:Akirasav|Akira]]
:*[[user:Nobuharu|Nobuharu]]

All editors that speak English proficiently are welcomed.

==More Information==
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toradora The wikipedia article] and [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/viewforum.php?f=53 the Baka-Tsuki forum for Toradora].

Toradora!:Spin-Off Legend of the Black Catboy of Misfortune

2009-12-13T03:23:04Z

RonnieCorny: /* Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune */

===Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune===

"...... d- d- d-, did you see it?"

"It's no use, the trees over there are obstructing...... a little more to the left"

"......h- h- h-, how?"

"It's no good, that tree is obstructing it this time. ......ah, darn! It's quite frustrating! Can we cut it all down!?"

--I may do it.

Takasu Ryuji struggled as he crouched down silently in order to drop the hooligan off his shoulders. The hooligan got down on the ground violently with both feet.

"Damn!"

She swore at the whole world, unleashing her frustration, She tore off an innocent leaf of a shiso plant in the lush flower bed. The mint's scent drifted in the hellish heat of the noon of midsummer.

"Oh forget it, it's okay, that's a wrap. ......aaaah, even though I took the effort to come to school during summer vacation, I can't get one clear view of Kitamura-kun in his club activities. I am extremely unlucky......Hey, why are you ignoring me when I'm feeling down!?"

As Ryuji crouched down to pick some shiso leaves, the hooligan, known as Aisaka Taiga, kicked him right down and into the middle of the buttocks with the toe of her shoes.

"Ow...... that hurts, you dumbass!"

"You stupid idiot! You impudent dog!"

Whack! And he got slapped in the mouth this time, then Ryuji's fierce eyes shone as he shouted back at Taiga without backing off one bit.

"Hit me or whatever you want to do, but I, these shiso, you can't stop me from taking them! These mints are FREE! I'm free to take them! Do you understand!?"

"Tch! Waitaminit! Spit! Gross!"

"Shut up! It's free, I'm free to take it. besides, mint is my favorite! You should be happy to be able to enjoy these in the delicious salad noodles and pickled tuna covered rice every day! Incidentally, here, it was me who planted the mint! On dry days I'm also the one who waters them, sending the pests to the afterlife was also me! Therefore I have every right to harvest these mints!"

"......"

"Nevermind that! Help me pick them if you understand! Ah... It's good that I remembered, last time I finished picking them all, I wasn't sure how soon they would grow again. So careless, so careless, to almost forget. And I don't usually come here when summer vacation begins...... but then, the shiso plants are strong, look at this lush growth!"

Happily-- totally forgetting the original purpose for coming to school, Ryuji became preoccupied with the shiso plants. Casually keeping one step apart, he didn't notice Taiga's eyes glaring at him.

Even with the violent like a wild carnivorous animal known as "palmtop tiger", in the face of the golden sun in the hot day, concentrating on the shiso harvesting, any thought of running by Ryuji was not to be found anymore. Instead Ryuji went "he he", laughing happily, occasionally smelling the fragrance of the crop going "mmm..." while narrowing his eyes and thinking, I wouldn't mind putting some of these shiso into a sachet for my wallet and mobile phone. Whether it was the demonic eyes or the scary features of the face, he looked like a hopeless addict picking some illegal weed that was secretly cultivated in the Hokkaido region., although he was just enjoying the feeling of having a miniature agricultural life with his small personal herb garden.

"Ah, that's right, Taiga!"

"......"

A smug smile and the usual cold silence was all he got. But Ryuji crawls over to Taiga on his knees from the mint plants without minding,

"In the flower bed over there, I have also planted eggplants and cucumber. Say, don't you want to take a look!? The seedlings grew and flowered before the closing ceremonies! Though I attempted last year, it was tragically caught by the gardening club and removed...... But this year!"

"Don't want to"

"Why. ......Hey, why are you so unkind to me? What is that strange look you're giving me?(Why are you looking at me like that?)"

"You are becoming more and more detestable! I knew I should have come on my own after all."

"Why is that!?"

In the first place, the reason why we came to school in the middle of summer vacation was to get the needed textbook which Taiga left in the locker. Although he wasn't asked particularly, but Ryuji, who was bored with a lot of free time, decided to accompany her.

As they passed through the school gate, they found the baseball club practicing. Taiga's crush, Kitamura, was there. Since the closing ceremony, Taiga has not seen Kitamura. Kitamura was of course busy with club activities and can be seen from a distance, so she would not like him to see her spying on him.

And so Ryuji and Taiga hid down beside the flowerbed at the side of the school building where the flowers grew thick, nestled between the sunflowers which swayed whenever they peeked. However, the huge weeds of the mid-summer was larger than the petite body of Taiga and blocked her view. So he let Taiga sit on his shoulder. For Taiga's sake, he showed some kindness. And then,

"You said I'm detestable, how am I detestable?!"

"There are lots including......such as your face, or such as your sweaty back. You, your entire shirt is drenched. Ah, that reminds me......"

Taiga puts her hand inside her own skirt, thinking about the close contact between her buttocks and Ryuji's shoulders earlier. Her eyes widened in shock, her small face twisting with disgust.

"Uh......ugh! My ass is wet with the sweat from your back! eeew! eeew!"

She stuck out her tongue and pretended to throw up. No matter how good-natured Ryuji is, it still felt insulting.

"Oh, don't you think it's also possible that my back is getting wet from the sweat of your butt as well!?"

"Not a chance!"

Instant denial, cutting off further talks Taiga turns around going, yuck! yuck! and starts to kick at the dirt with her foot like a cat after it uses a toilet. Sweat pours from Ryuji's skin, leaving spots on the ground.

"Ow! Ow! ......cough! Stop that you idiot! I was even kind enough to carry you on my shoulders!?"

"I'm now regretting that! What a disgusting sweaty dog! go away! get lost!"

"I will be using these shiso in tonight's tempura for our dinner, how can you say such a thing!? May lightning strike you down!"

"Ha! Lightning strikes can kill the germs! Whatever, I'm going to hurry and get that thing I forgot (textbook in the locker), as for you, you can stay here and bake in the heat!"

Like more lightning strikes hurting Ryuji's feelings further, Taiga's long hair fluttered as she turned towards the school building and ran off. Ryuji quietly rubs his sweat-soaked back, while shaking off the dirt on his hair like a dog, and biting his lip thinking. I knew it, she really is a terrible person.

--that witch, definitely, will have a horrible end.

Brushing her light colored hair with a tinge of gray, Taiga walked the deserted corridor towards the classroom on her own. Her exquisite profile as refined as delicate etched glass made her look like a French doll.

If she doesn't opens her mouth, rather, if not for "that" personality of hers, everyone would see Taiga as a very beautiful young lady. Her large eyes with light-colored pupils move relaxedly, looking like a kitten as it opens its mouth, the palmtop tiger lets out a lovely yawn. At times when no one is looking, Taiga does have a most captivating face.

However, the calm arch of Taiga's eyebrows suddenly raised steeply. From the other side of the corner, loud footsteps can be heard. It seems to be coming towards this place.

Disliking such a noisy person -- ignoring her own shortcomings, Taiga pouts with irritation at once. At this rate they may collide at the corner.

......or maybe not.

She did not try to change the route to an empty path nearby, this girl is called "the palmtop tiger" for a reason . Taiga absolutely walks where she wants to walk. Even if the other person is a guy from the sumo club or even if the other person is a teacher, she did not intend to change her way. She is walking properly, the other person is breaking the rules running, there is no reason to give way.

Resolutely sticking out her elbow sharply in out, Taiga lowered her head, continuing to plunge towards the prey which approached quickly. And sure enough, the moment she reached the corner,

"Ow... oh!"

"There it is...... kiyaaaah!"

Crash, the elbow connected bluntly. The other party who was knocked over screams loudly and lands on their butt, sitting in the hall due to the force of momentum. Standing firmly like a rock, before the eyes of the unperturbed Taiga, the schoolgirl's rather short skirt opened and was exposed fully. Both her pure white thighs and the seams of her light blue underpants were 100% exposed.

"......ah ah ah uuunggh~!"

Noticing the embarrassing position, she hurriedly sat down in the hall panicking and cried out again, pulling down on the hem of her skirt. And expressing "ouch" while pressing down her considerable chest that is best seen from the above. But by pressing down too strongly, did she know that it further enhanced the rounded shape to become clearly visible?

For some unknown reason (without any explanation), an even deeper cruelty and malevolence appeared in Taiga's eyes, looking down at this figure.

"......You, pay attention"

"Ah, s.. s... sor......"

Realizing that her panties had been exposed to just another girl, she lifted her eyes in that instant with a tinge of relief. However, with a blink of an eye, she realized that it was "the palmtop tiger" that stood arrogantly in front of her.

"......te... te... te..., teno...... eeek!"

Her round cheeks lost all color of blood in that instant.

Between Taiga's eyebrows, furrows looking like sawblades appeared.

Not even apologizing for knocking into me. Instead acting frightened like a victim. I hate this kind of person the most. Incidentally, I also hate those irresponsibly big breasts. ......without stating any apparent reason.

”......can't you even say "I'm sorry"? or is it, in your world, the "te... te... te..., teno..." acts as a form of apology? eh? what a barbarian!"

"o... o... o... urk!" (TL comment:the girl is trying to say "sorry")

"You're still not apologizing!"

To quickly settle this simple issue. Facing the frightened girl, Taiga ruthlessly stepped forward. Whether the other party is a guy or a girl makes no difference, Taiga's hostility to either was easily aroused. But at this moment, it felt like her foot was stepping on something.

"......?"

The girl who collided dropped her notebook, and it was under Taiga's foot. She notices it, and grimaced,

"Aaah...... Kota-kun's notebook...... the only symbol of our love......"

she cried out in despair. Tch, and Taiga clicked her tongue while, with some emphasis, picking it up with her hands, and playing with it in her hand without returning it,

"You're really good at acting as the victim......since having something so important stepped would make you cry, then you shouldn't have dropped it in the first place......."

Glaring through her glittering and brutal eyes, sizing up the girl from head to toe. Her nasal breath was rough with excitement going "ngggh nggggh", and blood rushes throughout fueling the serious malicious intent emanating from her body. "or-, or-, sor-", the female freshman cries tearfully, seemingly frozen in that spot.

a cruel smile twisted on the rosy lips of Taiga -- now then, let's see what we can do to this big-breasted girl with audacious panties that are fully exposed.

"What is it, Sakura?"

From the other side of the corridor, a voice echoed coldly

"sis-, sister!”

the big breated girl who had her panties exposed stands up and runs away, hiding her body like a rabbit behind the girl who appeared. Taiga recognized that girl,

"......it's here......"

muttering with very low voice. From her entire small body, the scent of danger from a 1 ton tiger emanates. All reason seem to disappear from her eyes -- Taiga hates this person the most.

"What have we here. ......aah, Aisaka Taiga. You are Kitamura's friend, I believe. I,"

"......think"

The girl with waist-length flowing black hair, was cold and spoke rudely like a man, which did not match her good looks. Taiga knew her. It was the president of the student council.

The student council president work with Kitamura everyday, and often as cleaning volunteers, they walk alongside together, and Kitamura would smile happily without a word -- Taiga was bitterly jealous of that girl.

"You recognize me? ......well then, why? why are you bullying my younger sister? Can you give me a good explanation"

calmly, without showing even a trace of fear, with an indulgent smile, the obnoxious student council president asks Taiga.

"......your younger sister?"

"Ah, this is my younger sister, Kanou Sakura, a freshman. ......bullying an underclassman girl, as expected of the Palmtop Tiger, aren't we attacking an easy prey?"

The big breasted panties girl hide behind the president of the student council, her body trembled going "pu ru pu ru". Taiga points at her without hesitation,

"Hey, as the elder sister, you should be ashamed of that exhibitionist. Your younger sister was running in this corridor, and crashed into the blameless me, rather than apologizing to me she spouts some crazy words and crying as if I were the one at fault, and now hides behind you"

"Hey. ......Sakura. Is this true?"

The big breasted panties girl was startled, she grimaced, and then looked up at her elder sister gasping,

"mo... mo... more or less.... !"

as soon as she nodded, the top of her head was struck! Even Taiga felt a little sympathy seeing that merciless karate chop. With some uncertain steps, her back was pushed down in front of Taiga,

"Now, you've made me look bad! You should properly apologize! How long are you going to hide behind me!"

having been yelled at with such a resounding voice. Tears formed at the corners of her eyes as she cowered down and looked up hesitantly,

"s.. s.. s-sorry...... I'm very sorry......Aisaka-senpai......"

In front of Taiga she bowed down deeply. "Keh", and Taiga snorted through her nose losing some of her fury, brushing her hair up and decided to forgive her this time, she starts to turn away.

But,

"uhm... uhm.... no..., notebook...."

"......huh!?"

at the sound of the soft voice, Taiga turns back again and her eyes filled with murderous intent. Although the big breasted panties girl shivered with fright, she didn't hide behind her elder sister again, even though both her legs were shaking, she desperately reaches her hand out.

"uhm, uhm, the notebook......? Please return it! It's not mine! i... it's from someone important, it's our only connection! i.. i... i'll do anything~!"

however that desperation, strikes at Taiga's heart......no, it lit an inherent fire of fury.

"SH... SH.. SHUT UP! You, to what degree do you want to falsely accuse me!? I just forgot about giving this to you! You think I would want something like this!?"

"Not!"

Taking the notebook in her hands, Taiga violently throws the notebook towards the throat of the big breasted panties girl, hitting back like a butcher.

While trying to catch the notebook the big breasted panties girl fell down on her knees groaning painfully. "aaaah", hitting her elbow while the student council president looks on, Taiga turns around and starts to leave.

But just at that instant. Something jumped deliberately right into Taiga's sight.

On the cover of the notebook with the distinct 22.5 cm shoeprint in the hands of the big breasted pants girl, the owner's name was clearly written with a felt-tip pen. ------"1-A Tomiie Kota".

＊　＊　＊

”waaah~, today it's somewhat extravagant~! Ryu-chan, how much prawns are there?"

"3 pieces per person"

"yay~, yay~"

Having completed her makeup except for the lipstick, with a hot curler still attached to her brightly dyed hair, Ryuji's mother - Yasuko, wearing a pink camisole and Ryuji's old middle-school jersey (track) pants and her huge breasts swaying wildly.

The innocent child-like face happily holding the chopsticks, looked like a young girl with her makeup, with beautifully painted rosy pink glossy nails, her hair flowing over her smooth collarbone, highlighting her feminine charms with a sweet scent that emits from Yasuko's skin more suitable for her real age and her evening work.

"properly eat the vegetables too, ok? and also the shiso"

"tempura shiso, I loooo~ve it! Ryu-chan too, I loooo~ve!"

At the narrow and low dining table, like peeking through a sheer cloth the colorful vegetables can be seen as well as Ryuji's wonderful tempura all lined up. In the miso soup, there is tofu, daikon (radish/turnip), vegetables; the steamed rice mixed with five spices; and today's side dish, pickled eggplants --- grown in secret in the school's gardens. As for the tempura sauce, lemon juice, or grated daikon, or anything to suit the personal taste.

half past 6 in the evening, Takasu family living room. Sitting around the low dining table were Ryuji, Yasuko, and Taiga, ready to have their usual dinner.

"bon appetit", they all said together, Yasuko reaches over for the prawn, Ryuji brings the miso soup to his mouth. Taiga's chopsticks hovers over the prawns, but why is she hesitating,

"Hey, move your chopsticks"

Ryuji scowled. But Taiga just grimaced, without any retort, and just like that stopped moving.

"......what is it?"

"......what's the matter? Taiga-chan?"

Even though she was being asked by both mother and son Taiga remains seated rigidly. "......" keeping her mouth shut. The usual Taiga would have taken even Ryuji's share of the mains together when she extended her chopsticks. Yasuko is concerned, and puts down her chopsticks,

”I see... I see..., sorry ＊ Ya-chan absolutely looo~ves Taiga-chan~ ＊"

"huh"

swoosh, and Taiga was hugged tightly. she kisses "tsup tsup tsuuuup". Being buried between those huge breasts Taiga couldn't make a sound, before long, her small hands pushed painfully with a pitter-patter sound

"I can't breathe! I can't breathe!"

"Aaaahh......"

at the time she was released, she gasps for air and simultaneously collapses onto the seat futon (zabuton). After a little while, not wanting Ryuji and Yasuko to worry about her, she slowly straightens her body.

"......no.., nothing. actually, I just a little bit......don't really feel like eating anything"

"You don't have any appetite!?"

"That is just so~"

"......even me, even when I'm slightly ill, i would still have it! ......this, take this. and this too"

Taiga passes a prawn towards Yasuko, another towards Ryuji, and the other one left, after being dipped in the tempura sauce, she gingerly brings to her own small mouth like trying out the taste.

"Don't be unreasonable (don't force yourself to eat), are you really okay?"

taking a bite, Taiga nods her head while sprinkling salt, adding more. pauses and continues eating it as it is.

"......don't worry. I can eat this. delicious"

also taking in a mouthful of white rice.

"you should probably take back the prawn? you should savor it since you're able to eat, you will see shrimps on our dining table only once a year~"

"it's ok, after eating the vegetables I'm already good"

after eating one prawn, Taiga's appetite seem to have improved, as she also drinks the miso soup. And so Ryuji was relieved,

"Shiso can be considered medicine. You should take more"

The platter of mint was turned so that it faced Taiga. Taiga nods, and takes one piece to her mouth immediately. She seems to like it, taking another piece.

In the end, Taiga also eats the other vegetable tempura, the pickled vegetables, the miso soup, and also some rice (this is a very rare situation, normally she can easily finish three bowls), for the time being we have finished eating.

Yasuko also felt relieved after seeing that, and heads out to work taking the Chanel bag that she always treasured--some disaster would occur, several hours later.

"......Ryuji......I......may be dying......"

Ryuji turns his head upon hearing this shocking statement, it was already after 10 in the evening.

As usual they were relaxing after eating and having a good time, folding a cushion in half and spreading it, the two of them were carelessly lying flat down on the tatami mat watching television. Neither of them did anything, they begin to fall asleep.

"......I'm dying......"

"wh......what?"

Noticing Taiga behind Ryuji, she seemed to have sprawled down awkwardly, somewhat like toppling sideways holding her stomach, her complexion turned very pale. Although Taiga has always been very fair-skinned, her skin tone now was a tinge of pale beige, she was very pale. Ryuji hurriedly gets up, crawling over causing Taiga's hair to scatter on the tatami with his knees.

"How is it!? Is it a stomach-ache!?"

"i-.. it hurts... a... lot...."

"do you need to go to the toilet? can you stand? are you going to throw up?!"

"toilet...... I don't think the pain is that bad......"

Wheezing and coughing, she vomited, Taiga softly shivers. Traces of cold sweat form on her damp forehead, it was quite cold.

"Is it your Stomach!?"

"I-..., I don't know...... it just hurts..... here"

Around the navel of the dress which has a repeating cotton lace pattern which expands softly, she strokes that area with her small hand. Ryuji realized clearly, this is quite serious.

"w-, we should go to the hospital!"

Inside the birdcage placed in a corner of the living room, a disfigured parrot called inko-chan also chimed "that's right!" while nodding with the whites of its eyes bulging.

"oh yes, ambulance......must call the ambulance!"

"i-, i-, isn't that a bit exaggerated....?"

"but you can't walk, right!? aren't you dying!?"

"Calling an ambulance just for a stomach-ache......don't......I-... I can cope......uuugh~......"

Taiga strains her voice, and twists her body to try to endure the pain. It can't be helped---Ryuji quickly opened the phonebook, verifying that the nearby university hospital have night time emergency facilities, dials the phone while taking his wallet and the health insurance card and putting them in his pocket.

"Oh! use my insurance card!"

The trembling becomes more apparent. The health insurance card is taken out and inserted into the slanting back pocket, carrying the light body of the weary Taiga who was lying down. Taiga was silent, like a ventriloquist's doll being carried in the arms of Ryuji, her face pressed against his shoulders,

"......nngh......nnggh......"

while enduring the pain she moans softly.

Impatiently locking the door with the housekey, Ryuji rushes out from the front door even though he was only wearing his sandals. Making loud "kang kang" noise that rang on the iron stairs as he ran down, carrying Taiga to the main street to catch a taxi,

"Sorry, there's someone sick here! Would you mind letting us go ahead!?"

Jumping out in front of an older office worker who had just stopped a taxi, he pleads. Under the light that shines on Ryuji's evil-looking sanpaku eyes, the older man felt threatened, and dropped his bag out of instinctive fear, and takes one step back,

"thank you very much!"

Ryuji interpreted that as a "Yes", and slides in the open taxi door. Informing the name of the university hospital and screaming "hurry, this person is sick!" to the driver, who adjusted the rearview mirror and nodded many times. Understanding the circumstance, made him realize it was not a car-jacking.

"Taiga, hang in there! we're almost there!"

Taiga cannot even sit properly, instead she could only lie prone on Ryuji's lap, even now trembling due to the pain.

So pitiful--no matter how she had verbally abused him, or the violent treatment he received, They were kindred who ate meals out of the same pot. Taiga is really a girl after all. Ryuji can see that she was patiently enduring the pain, trying not to cry out loud. And so he brushes her long hair gently that has become disheveled.

Just what on earth is going on? Is it food poisoning, appendicitis, or is it some other worse disease?

"......dead......"

"id-, idiot! stop saying you're dead or dying! saying such words will only make things worse!"

"......you're wrong......it's not me....that fellow......"

maybe he is dead.

While lying on Ryuji's knee, Taiga was babbling incoherently. Maybe it was playing dead, that fellow, that black tomcat, or maybe it really is dead. Then perhaps, this is its curse.

"wh~.., what? what do you mean?"

"......uhm, freshman's, female......final memento, those words......that thing......after death, that relic, that maybe....oh"

"that freshman's, uhm......are you talking about the incident this morning?"

It was when Ryuji was in the middle of harvesting the shiso and eggplants when Taiga encountered that incident in the school building with the freshman girl. Ryuji heard about this when they were on their way home.

"I..... stepped on it at that time, that notebook......because it was too ominous, i didn't say a word......that-, that thing, was......[Tomiie Kota's] property......"

Can it be? (No way), Ryuji instinctively stares around the ear of Taiga who's facing down. He knew Tomiie Kota. He is a close junior of Kitamura, a freshman in the student council, and is Taiga's so-called "black tomcat"--they say misfortune will follow when a black cat crosses one's path. In Taiga's case, it was Tomiie Kota in particular, who is the black cat that brought about this misfortune. Every time Tomiie Kota appears before Taiga, some unbelievable misfortune seem to happen to Taiga.

Her lunch sandwich would be trampled. The canned coffee would fly out of the machine and eventually slam onto her head. When cutting the tail of a fried horse mackerel, it gets stuck onto her forehead, this can also be attributed to him; when she was was walking from school, she would get hit by a dropped eraser; sometimes soya milk would be sprayed onto her face -- it's because he is Kitamura's junior, and simply for this one reason that he is able to still survive, if not because of this, Taiga would have already personally delivered this insolent underclassman to hell.

Ryuji also knows about this very well. Those encounters with Taiga were probably also miserable and unfortunate occurrences for him. But then,

"the-, the-, therefore, why the hell did this curse......"

"He's dead......that fellow, is dead......soul in that notebook......I, stepped on that......?"

Taiga's body continued shivering weakly. Her fingers grasping Ryuji's kneecaps through the trousers felt icy-cold,

"......it keeps following......that fellow's, bad luck, through his spirit.....ugh......"

Taiga continued to moan, the sound of her suffering echoing in the silent taxi.

＊　＊　＊

"For nighttime emergency medical diagnosis and treatment, it can be troublesome unless you telephone first, don't you think?"

......at last, we're here. carrying Taiga, who was trembling, to the reception counter who murmured for the first time:

"th~, that being said......i'm sorry. and so..., uhm..., can we get this medical examination started?"

"What was that?"

The woman in a business attire with the strange thick makeup was a bit unnerved in front of Ryuji's scary face, carrying Taiga carefully and looking up. Taiga seemed to be already at death's door, could not respond to the situation,

"It seems to be a stomachache. She was already feeling ill before the meal, and it seems to have become very bad a few minutes after eating!"

"What did she eat-?"

"Tempura!"

"......Tempura!?"

Ha!

and, i heard a snort that sounded like a nasal laugh -- hopefully it was just my imagination. The woman tosses a sheet of paper forward from the counter,

"here, please fill this-"

and even though being told that, his arm doesn't move but remained holding onto Taiga. Ryuji cuts the woman off, carefully lays Taiga down on the sofa of the lobby. even though Taiga's eyes were closed, she doesn't lose consciousness, gritting her teeth to endure the pain with an expression of anguish. The fluorescent light were turned off, only small electric lamps dimly illuminated the spacious lobby. There were no sign of any other patients, and voices echoed strangely.

"pl-, pl-, please lend me a pen"

after a cold glare, a pen was rolled across the counter with the "cara cara" sound echoing.

in any case; name and address (the house number of the building next to Ryuji's home should be correct, right?), symptom, I scribbled it hurriedly,

"er-, uh, is the insurance card good by tomorrow?"

"please wait over there on the sofa-"

his question wasn't answered either, and the paper wasn't looked at also, the woman just casually tossed it into an unknown box at the side. What kind of treatment is this? he wanted to ask, but it seemed better to just obey that woman's instructions and wait. Ryuji went back to Taiga who moaned, and sat down beside her, but somehow, had an inexplicable idea.

this place, it's no different from the jungle.

......isn't it? Should he take her to another place before it's too late? That woman at the reception counter is certainly not a doctor or a nurse, but her symptoms are very dire, it's probably better to find out her condition now. Glancing quietly at the suffering Taiga, however, luck seemed to change in that moment of hesitation.

"Aisaka-san, please!"

A voice calls from the examination room, and soon that woman approaches us pushing a wheelchair with a clattering sound.

"Please ride in this-"

Taiga opened her eyes slightly, and reflexively twists her body and tries to escape as if sensing something foreboding, the woman quickly reaches across and with Ryuji's help, grasps the child and places her onto the wheelchair. The woman than pushed the wheelchair efficiently into the examination room. Ryuji hastily pursues after them.

This is the patient-, the woman announced immediately, and the open door of the examination room started closing automatically.

gaaa! just as the doors were closing, he grabbed onto Taiga's leg and faltered. Ignoring both the wheezing Ryuji and the silent Taiga, the woman calmly opens the door,

"Please, go in!"

Without warning, she pushes the wheelchair in and lets it go,

"aiyee!"

Taiga's careening wheelchair was caught with the foot of a slipper by a young man in a white coat -- why is his head shaven, this doctor. He examines Taiga's leg while smiling amiably,

"What seems to be the problem-? ah, this leg? Is it painful, if that's the case I can surely heal it quickly."

"that was caused by banging on that door just now! It's stomachache!"

If Ryuji didn't immediately say anything, the doctor would probably only examine the leg and send them home after. Ah, abdominal pain? how much (pain)? and the doctor puts on the stethoscope to listen to the stomach of Taiga.

But Taiga's bulky cotton lace clothes had too much frills piled up to the point of death (also known as Furi Furi one-piece virtue), seeing this, the doctor shakes his head, as if he cannot understand where to open it.

"hah! I give up. lie down on the examination table for a while-, put your head here-, yes, yes, that's it"

the wheelchair's brakes weren't engaged, Taiga trembled as she endured the pain struggling while slowly transferring to the examination table. The doctor only reads the medical chart without noticing anything else. Ryuji being flustered, tries to lend a hand to Taiga, but,

"Ah, are you with her? her relative-?"

"eh? uhm... no, a friend......"

Suddenly being asked by that doctor, Ryuji turned his head around, in that instant, Taiga fell off the swiveling wheelchair that slipped. And she hit the hard floor with a dull thumping sound.

"Oh! Ta-, Taiga!"

"......uh......"

Clinging onto the wobbling consultation seat, Taiga stands up with a dazed look, quietly rubbing her forehead. The doctor than jokes,

"aha ha ha ha ha~, what are you doing!? is that where it hurts~!? what's the~"

the doctor seem to jokingly place the stethoscope on the forehead, until he noticed the evil eyes of Ryuji who stared in utter amazement at this unbelievable scene.

"......you-, your face, isn't it scary~! can you go away for a little while so as not to distract me!? It's really scaring me~!"

"eh......bu~, but......"

"it's ok, it's ok! just wait over there!"

He was chased off up to the doorway of the examination room almost totally pushed out. The curtain is closed, the view of Taiga passes out of sight. But how can he leave that seemingly useless doctor and Taiga alone together? he regretfully chews on his fingernails,

"......"

"......"

looking around, an elementary schoolboy was sitting in the corner of the examination room. he has asthmatic spasm but still raises and opens his mouth widely to inhale some steam, arms crossed with a "Nobody else is allowed to fiddle with this" posture while tightly hugging the machine. His eyes were glazed over like dead fish slowly losing freshness -- perhaps, it's not only due to the illness that he is fatigued.

It was absolutely a mistake to have come here, realizing this now.

"Aaargh!"

Taiga's tearful voice echoed. Just like the scream of a bear caught in a trap.

"It's alright, it's alright, I'm just drawing a little blood! Ah, failed again. ......tch! what the shit!. ......this time for sure......still nothing, tch! can't find the vein, wait a minute,"

"Aaaah, aaahh, aaaaaaahhh~!"

"I'm just looking for the vein......tch! No, this is no good! switching to the other arm, this is also useless, tch! tch! shit!"

The sounds echoing in the consultation room were scarier than anything in the world. As the terrifying voice of Taiga came to a halt, Ryuji was left standing petrified. The tongue-click noise continues, making him want to cover his ears, but the fact was Taiga was brought here by himself. He cannot avert his eyes from this scary responsibility......well, let's stop this already, have to tell him to stop this. And then have to get her out and go to another place.

With that determination he opens the curtain,

"Ha! I got it... I got it! with this it shouldn't hurts so much anymore, once we can examine the blood we should be able to determine if there was infection inside the stomach, you can rest assured from this blood check-!"

The syringe is full of Taiga's somewhat strange looking dark colored blood. The doctor smiles proudly after such a difficult ordeal,

"there, just wait a little bit! here, take this as an apology for the pain caused!"

Taking out a candy from the pocket of the white coat, unwrapping it and dropping it in the mouth of Taiga which remains half-open without moving. Taiga grabs Ryuji's hand suddenly, and coughs out the candy. The candy rolls a bit in Ryuji's hand before becoming stuck. ......that's understandable, but, on the other hand, Ryuji was feeling troubled. If a person comes to the hospital with a painful stomach, why would you give them candy......

after all this, we were told, we have to go back to the sofa of the waiting room again for another 20 minutes. Taiga plops herself down and occasionally groans, and continues to shiver slightly and rubs circles on her stomach desperately. The inner side of her left arm was quickly bruising, absorbent cotton was taped to the inner side of her right arm, a seemingly impossible amount of blood seeping into it. Her eyes glazed over lifelessly, and her complexion became terribly pasty.

"......Taiga. Hey......"

"......"

There was no response. Her voice doesn't come out anymore either. Her lips were parched dry and cracked, but maybe because she also bit on them to endure the pain, that's why it is bleeding a bit. The truth was, she surely looked worse now then before coming to this place.

It can't be helped, but the cause of the stomach pain must be discovered, and it must be treated,

"uhm, ahem~, I'm not really sure!"

from behind, incoherent voices conversed idly.

With a sinking feeling, Ryuji looks back at that doctor standing behind him. In his hand was an intravenous bag that he was going to hang onto a metal support .

"that blood we drew just now, it won't be able to help us determine the cause of the stomachache!"

"wo~, wo~, won't be able......"

"but it will help us to determine that there is no inflammation of the appendix. On the other hand, this may be something that we can't just treat at an emergency ward!"

Huh! feeling dismayed at this time in the face of the smiling doctor , while discreetly keeping Taiga behind him, Ryuji desperately questioned the doctor.

"if it's not intestinal, then, could it be some women's issue, for example gynecological problems......"

"If that's the case, that would not be considered a health emergency, unfortunately! If you really want to know what is wrong, please come back during regular hours to consult a general practitioner, oh yes, as this is a university hospital, there is no referral, so it can be quite expensive!"

"so~, somehow could it be catarrh or...... those things are......"

"That-is-why~, she did not have diarrhea, right!? nor did she she throw up, right!? even though you have come to the emergency room, we were still unable to treat it! There is no bleeding in her stomach, and there is no symptom that warrants treatment at an emergency ward! Is it food poisoning, there doesn't seem to be any such acute symptoms! Neither is it constipation! and it doesn't seem to be gas! anyway, the only thing noticeable is that she is in pain but cannot elaborate what is the pain, so...this!"

and why do you seem to be so happy, or is it merely the night shifts causing you to have high emotional tension, the doctor just pointed at the intravenous drip. Picking up the readied tube, and as soon as the cap of the needle was removed,

"This is pain-killer! Ah, this is good, a needle was left in a while ago just in case something like this might happen. This child, her blood vessels are quite difficult to find~"

The cotton on the inner right arm of Taiga was peeled off. Blood was gradually seeping out......the needle on the rubber-like mouth still remains stuck. Eehhh......but Ryuji takes a few steps back, not able to do anything. The doctor works in front of Ryuji, with great skill and dexterity, adjusts the rate of the intravenous drip,

"when the drip runs out, call me!"

"......he~, here, leave the IV drip here......? this, in the lobby?"

"there will probably be other patients, therefore we must keep the examination room free. Because sometimes serious injuries do arrive"

"......that sounds terrible......"

"like ruptured intestine"

not really caring about accounts about injuries to internal organs, and nonchalantly divulging such findings, the doctor finishes by turning back to the examination room. This university hospital certainly has a reputation as a very advanced lifesaving institution, it is one of Japan's leading hospitals. It's only logical that such serious cases would be sent here.

However, I do get it, and Ryuji incidentally also came to an unusual understanding. An excellent doctor will surely be assigned to more urgent lifesaving situations, this young doctor with seemingly less skills might have been left behind here. Oh my, although this is just the imaginings of a selfish layman, judging by the suitability of that unnecessary examination~

"Taiga!?"

looking over suddenly, Ryuji shouted shrilly. Rashes were appearing all over the entire body of Taiga to which the painkiller was administered, especially from the inner arm where the needle of the IV drip is stuck. The hives can be seen spreading quickly, connecting together forming large masses of rashes,

"Oh, oh, OH......EMERGENCY! TAIGA! someone help!"

"......oou~, aaaargh......"

"Someone please come and help!"

Mouth gaping wide and wailing beside Ryuji, Taiga noticed the IV drip needle inserted in her arm for the first time.

"wh~, what~......can't breath.....whew~! this......wha~......ooow......whew~!"

"Taiga, hang in there! This is the drug to stop the pain!"

"......tch, stop... pain..., drug......I......"

"wheez wheez" sounds like from a high-pitched whistle were emanating from the throat of Taiga. Her body was twisted in pain. Her airway narrowed. The doctor and several nurses hurries over, looking at Taiga's face, and at that instant "bong!" and the eyelid can be seen swelling up,

"Oh, this is bad"

I, am allergic to pain-killers.

--these few words were squeaked out within Taiga's scant breath with great difficulty. Well then, is this an allergic reaction? Doctor, why didn't you first inquire about allergies? And, why was the intravenous drip administered without obtaining the patient's consent?

But Ryuji did not know yet. Of course Taiga did not know either. Neither did the nurses nor the doctor know. Already on the floor above, on this hospital's second floor, a new misery......no, the curse of the black cat had already begun to carve its way to bring more terror for Taiga.

Second floor, at the public telephone at the nurse's station.

A high school freshman who is hospitalized with bone fractures in many places all over his body, grasping several 10 yen coins in his hand, paces back and forth unceasingly in front of the nurse's station since a little while ago.

what is it, Tomiie-kun. want to telephone your girlfriend? don't have a telephone card?

what is it, what is it, you do have a girlfriend!?

eh-what kind of person is she? girlie gal? clean and innocent? come on, come on, unless you call her quickly the grandma of ward 402 will be on the phone again for a long time.

We won't listen in, we're not listening in! see, we are not straining up our ears to eavesdrop.

go ahead, go ahead, everyone encouraged~!

he was extremely hesitant and awkward but in the end, only calls home after all, and asks for some change of pants, and quickly leaves the nurses' station afterwards. He was not yet mature enough to be able to call the girl he likes in front of those working elder sisters.

At this time, the remaining 10 yen coin that was tightly clasped was accidentally dropped. The coin went "clink clank" as it bounds and roll down the stairs, it was impossible to pick up as it rolled down and ended on the first floor before you could say "ah". Although it's only a 10 yen coin, money is still money, so he runs after it in a hurry, running all the way down to the lobby on the first floor. The rolling coin made a "korokoro" sound was still being chased, began to roll on to a deserted corridor.

As she was placed on the stretcher, Taiga was already quickly losing consciousness. She knew that she was having a lengthy bout of severe allergy. The mucous membrane of her eyes, inside of her mouth and trachea swells up more and more, and becomes hot and itchy, and causes her to shiver. The abdominal pain becomes more severe, and a dark fog seemed to start to drift in front of her vision gradually.

Shouldn't Ryuji be by her side? desperately twisting her neck, and so Taiga saw that thing.

The moving stretcher was heading towards a T-shaped corridor.

from the left side onto the right, whoa, and it ran right through.

A death flag -- these words came to Taiga's mind. Because of that fellow, that fellow probably resembles that black tomcat who should already be dead.

"Wha~!?"

The first to cry out was a nurse. "kachink", suddenly something small and hard got caught in between one of the wheels of the speeding stretcher. The wheel on one side of the stretcher stopped causing the stretcher to spin 180 degrees on its axle, sandwiching the nurse onto the wall, while the doctor's foot was run over by the stretcher that kept going forward due the inclined floor, causing him to stumble. Then Ryuji also stumbled into that mass of people and hits his jaw on the floor, and then Taiga, who was suffering from severe allergic reaction and stomachache, flew through the air at great force -- the sudden stop of the stretcher threw her violently onto the wall causing her to bounce off it, and then she lands her buttocks into the middle of the potted plants.

The last thing that Taiga saw was the overturned stretcher and crushed underneath it, a mass of people like dumplings.

A minute after all that, no one made a sound, it was just a a catastrophe. After all, for a 10 yen coin to cause such a disaster, it's something that's unimaginable.

＊　＊　＊

Eventually, an appropriate dosage of medication was given that treated Taiga's allergy before the day ended, and after calming down, her stomachache also decreased. Taking a taxi home, Ryuji also sends Taiga up to the entrance of her home, when Ryuji also falls asleep, it is morning.

"This is not right~!"

In Taiga's apartment, it was unusual to find Ryuji and Yasuko there. It was different here from the Takasu residence, the dazzling morning sunlight streamed into the room, Yasuko's carefree voice echoed in the room.

Ryuji mailed (smsed) details about last night's events, and Yasuko didn't drink much instead had come home earlier. And guessing that it was almost time for Taiga to wake up, the two of them came to visit her together,

"......because yesterday I didn't come up here, I didn't notice......"

"Taiga-chan, you must restrain yourself a little~"

Taiga dressed in pajamas looks embarrassed and stares at the Takasus quietly from the doorway of the bedroom while chewing on her sleeve (making soft gajigaji sounds) and fidgeting her bare feet on top of the rug.

In the large living room of Taiga's apartment, marks of Taiga's horrible lifestyle were in evidence all around. First of all, two empty Ice cream cups were left on the tea table. And also left inside were cheap popsicle sticks among the garbage. An empty potato chip bag was left In the stylish corner counter where the extravagant 42-inch television is placed, and a pudding cup was left on the kitchen island. Also a yoghurt cup. The remains of the rare cheesecake of the specialty store were audaciously left on top of the sofa,

"......are these... from yesterday... by yourself? Kushieda didn't come to visit?"

yup, and Taiga nods.

"after coming back from school? before dinner?"

yup, and Taiga again keeps nodding.

They also find a milk tea PET bottle that rolls across the rug surprising Yasuko who was dressed in a jersey. She then lightly raps Taiga on the head.

"you ate too much, no matter how one puts it, this is~. Taiga-chan! It's not good like this!"

"......I'm sorry......"

Obligingly, Taiga hanged her head in shame, her cheeks still had traces of the rash. Recalling the events of last night, Ryuji couldn't bring himself to get angry with her now, but still was disgusted and began cleaning up the garbage.

"so, how's your stomach?"

"......after a night's sleep, it seems to be okay now......now i'm hungry......"

That's it.

However Yasuko just laughs wryly, "already? i guess it can't be helped though~☆but, I'm glad you're well now" rubbing Taiga's cheek gently with her own cheek. Taiga being safe, her heart was relieved and delighted. And she continues to rub Taiga's cheek with her own bare cheek (without makeup).

"that's right, after we've cleaned this place up, we'll bring your insurance card and go back to the hospital, then we can all go for breakfast~! McDonald's breakfast? Sudoba breakfast? Ya-chan has just got her salary so I can treat you to whatever you want~!"

"hooray! Sudoba breakfast! morning's caramel toast!"

Taiga almost leaps up in agreement, undoing her braided long hair that was tied up for sleeping as she went back into her room and closed the door, immediately changing her clothes the minute she went inside.

Ryuji lightly glares at Yasuko in reaction,

"......aren't you pampering her too much?"

After hearing this, Yasuko also rubs Ryuji's cheeks with her own cheek, just like what she did to Taiga a while ago. Realizing how much of a "mother complex" this seems, but this action......so Ryuji gently pulled away, and Yasuko's eyes narrowed as she laughed.

"Ryu-chan, you did great~! taking Taiga to the hospital properly, and bringing her back properly......yup, properly keeping the house, you're quite capable~! that's great! that's great! you're quite the man!"

"......"

now what!?

while thinking.

while tossing the trash into the garbage bag, he hangs his head down, slightly embarrassed. Inside Taiga's bedroom, she had almost completely taken off her pajama's trousers, BANG, a heavy thud, "OUCH!" came the awkward voice. What is it?, he calls in, do not come in you horny dog! among other things.

she seems to be back to normal at the very least, I guess.

By the way, the amount of money that Taiga paid to the hospital, including the various examination and lab fees, in the end came up to an enormous sum. So much so that the Takasu family of Ryuji and Yasuko, and even the ostensibly rich Taiga, wordlessly expressed surprise to the accounts section woman with a frown and glare.

Looking back towards the imposing university hospital on the way back home, though it might be because of the tragic experiences they have had that they looked at it through unpleasant eyes, for some reason there was a threatening aura like it was about to release some turbulence about it. For example, even though the weather today is fine, it is the kind of midsummer's day with a deep blue sky and sunshine that grills the eyes, yet why is it that there is a dark cloud visibly hanging just directly above that hospital?

Shouldn't a hospital ward not even have a death god? As Taiga mutters with disgust, she has made a new determination that she would never be coming back a second time.

Passing the supposed dead black tomcat, surprising Taiga to the extent that she spews the milk she was drinking, the heat of summer hasn't cooled down yet but it was the beginning of a new school term.

The End.

Toradora!:Spin-Off Legend of the Black Catboy of Misfortune

2009-12-12T11:13:47Z

RonnieCorny: /* Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune */

Toradora!

2009-12-11T23:20:41Z

RonnieCorny: /* Spin-Off - The Cherry Colored Tornado of Happiness */

[[Image:Toradora! novel cover.jpg|200px|thumb|Volume 01 cover.]]
Toradora! (とらドラ！) project page. Everyone is welcome.

You can also read the Toradora series in these languages:

*[[Toradora! (German)|Deutsch (German)]]
*[[Toradora! (Greek)|Ελληνικά (Greek)]]
*[[Toradora (Italian)|Italiano (Italian)]]
*[[Toradora! (Russian)|Русский (Russian)]]
*[[Toradora! (Español)|Español (Spanish)]]
*[[Toradora (Saling Tagalog)|Wikang Tagalog (Tagalog)]]
*[[Toradora! (Turkish)|Türkçe (Turkish)]]

(Note: Translation progress varies for each version.)

==Story Synopsis==

Takasu Ryuuji begins his second year of high school trying to look his best. However, there is one thing that torments him: despite his gentle personality he has inherited his gangster father's intimidating eyes, which often leads to misunderstandings by his classmates. But all that is about to change, on the first day of the new school term he accidentally bumps into the most dangerous being in school - Aisaka Taiga, also known as the Palmtop Tiger. Despite her diminutive appearance, Taiga has a very negative attitude and has left a "bloody trail" wherever she goes, hence her nickname.

After his unfortunate encounter with Taiga, Ryuuji does his best to avoid her. Yet by chance he discovers that Taiga has a crush on his best friend Kitamura Yuusaku, while Taiga finds out about his crush on her best friend Kushieda Minori. And so Taiga decides to let Ryuuji help her hook up with Kitamura as her "personal servant", and in return, Taiga will help Ryuuji get closer to Minori.

Due to Ryuuji's obsession with cleanliness and the close proximity of Taiga's apartment block, besides sleeping, Taiga ends up spending most of her time at Ryuuji's place. Over time, Ryuuji witnesses a side of Taiga that people normally don't see, and their relationship becomes so close that rumours begin to spread about whether they are going out as a couple.

Thus begins the clash between the Tiger and the Dragon - Toradora!

== Translation ==

=== [[Toradora!:Registration Page|Registration]] ===

Those who wish to contribute are asked to first notify a supervisor beforehand.

'''Translators are asked to [[Toradora!:Registration Page|register]] which chapters they're working on'''

===Format Standards===
'''Every Chapter (after editing) must conform to the general format guidelines.'''
*[[Format_guideline|General Format/Style Guideline]]
*[[Toradora!: Naming Conventions|Toradora! Naming Conventions]]

==Updates==
*May 24, 2009 - Volume 8 Chapter 2 completed.
*May 28, 2009 - Volume 4 Author's Notes completed.
*May 29, 2009 - Volume 8 Chapter 3 completed.
*June 1, 2009 - Volume 7 Author's Notes completed.
*Sep 28, 2009 - Volume 5 Chapter 5 completed.
*Oct 12, 2009 - Volume 5 Chapter 6 completed.
*Oct 14, 2009 - Volume 9 Chapter 2 completed.
*Oct 29, 2009 - Volume 5 Chapter 7 completed.
*Oct 29, 2009 - Volume 5 Author's Notes completed.
Older updates can be found on the [[Toradora!:_Updates|Toradora! Updates page]].

==The ''Toradora!'' series by [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yuyuko_Takemiya Yuyuko Takemiya]==

===Volume 1 [[Toradora!:Volume1|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Toradora!:Volume1_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume1_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume1_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume1_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume1_Chapter4|Chapter 4]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume1_Chapter5|Chapter 5]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume1_Chapter6|Chapter 6]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume1_Author's Notes|Author's Notes]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume1_Translator's Notes| Translator's Notes and References]]

===Volume 2 [[Toradora!:Volume2|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Toradora!:Volume2_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume2_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume2_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume2_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume2_Chapter4|Chapter 4]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume2_Chapter5|Chapter 5]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume2_Chapter6|Chapter 6]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume2_Spin-off|Spin-off]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume2_Author's Notes|Author's Notes]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume2_Translator's Notes| Translator's Notes and References]]

===Volume 3 [[Toradora!:Volume3|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Toradora!:Volume3_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume3_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume3_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume3_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume3_Chapter4|Chapter 4]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume3_Chapter5|Chapter 5]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume3_Author's Notes|Author's Notes]]

===Volume 4 [[Toradora!:Volume4|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Toradora!:Volume4_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume4_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume4_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume4_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume4_Chapter4|Chapter 4]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume4_Chapter5|Chapter 5]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume4_Chapter6|Chapter 6]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume4_Author's Notes|Author's Notes]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume4_Translator's Notes| Translator's Notes and References]]

===Volume 5 [[Toradora!:Volume5|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Toradora!:Volume5_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume5_Prologue|Prologue]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume5_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume5_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume5_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume5_Chapter4|Chapter 4]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume5_Chapter5|Chapter 5]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume5_Chapter6|Chapter 6]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume5_Chapter7|Chapter 7]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume5_Author's Notes|Author's Notes]]

===Volume 6 [[Toradora!:Volume6|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Toradora!:Volume6_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume6_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume6_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume6_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume6_Chapter4|Chapter 4]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume6_Chapter5|Chapter 5]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume6_Chapter6|Chapter 6]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume6_Author's notes|Author's notes]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume6_Translator's Notes| Translator's Notes and References]]

===Volume 7 [[Toradora!:Volume7|(Full Text)]]===
::*[[Toradora!:Volume7_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume7_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume7_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume7_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume7_Chapter4|Chapter 4]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume7_Chapter5|Chapter 5]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume7_Author's Notes|Author's Notes]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume7_Translator's Notes| Translator's Notes and References]]

===Volume 8===
::*[[Toradora!:Volume8_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume8_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume8_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume8_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume8_Chapter4|Chapter 4]] (33%)
::*Chapter 5
::*Chapter 6
::*Author's Notes

===Volume 9===
::*[[Toradora!:Volume9_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume9_Prologue|Prologue]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume9_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
::*[[Toradora!:Volume9_Chapter2|Chapter 2]]
::*Chapter 3
::*Chapter 4
::*Chapter 5
::*Author's Notes

===Volume 10===
::*[[Toradora!:Volume10_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*Prologue
::*Chapter 1
::*Chapter 2
::*Chapter 3
::*Chapter 4
::*Chapter 5
::*Author's Notes

===Spin-Off - The Cherry Colored Tornado of Happiness===
::*[[Toradora!:Spin-Off_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*The Cherry Colored Tornado of Happiness
:::*Part 1 - Trigger Mechanism
:::*Part 2 - Emergency Alert Issued
:::*Part 3 - F12 Tornado
::*[[Toradora!:Spin-Off_Legend of the Black Catboy of Misfortune|Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune]] (~94%)
::*[[Toradora!:Spin-Off_Author's_Notes|Author's Notes]]

===Spin-Off 2 虎、肥ゆる秋===
::*[[Toradora!:Spin-Off_2_Illustrations|Novel Illustrations]]
::*虎、肥ゆる秋
::*春になったら群馬に行こう！
::*THE END OF なつやすみ
::*秋がきたから畑に行こう！
::*先生のお気に入り

===Alternative Adaptation===

This script is considered an adaptation by [[user:caster13|Caster13]] who is using our script to adapt it into contemporary fluent English with appropriate English context.

Think of it as a English Spin-off based on Toradora!

You can read [[user:caster13|Caster13]] adaptation at [http://inky-text.livejournal.com/7571.html Livejournal The Literary Works of Caster] and/or discuss this adaptation on the forum [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/viewtopic.php?f=53&t=2435 here]

::*[[Toradora! ~Adaptation~:Volume1_Chapter1|Preview - Chapter 01- ]]

==Project Staff==

*Project Administrator:
*Project Supervisor:

===Translators===

:*[[user:Kinny_Riddle|Kinny Riddle]]
:*[[user:Trabius|Trabius]]
:*[[user:Pliky|Pliky]]
:*[[user:Dragonst|Dragonst]]

===Editors===

:*[[user:Dan|Dan]]
:*[[user:Chansey|Chansey]]
:*[[user:Akirasav|Akira]]
:*[[user:Nobuharu|Nobuharu]]

All editors that speak English proficiently are welcomed.

==More Information==
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toradora The wikipedia article] and [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/viewforum.php?f=53 the Baka-Tsuki forum for Toradora].

Toradora!:Spin-Off Legend of the Black Catboy of Misfortune

2009-12-11T15:45:41Z

RonnieCorny: /* Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune */

Toradora!:Spin-Off Legend of the Black Catboy of Misfortune

2009-12-11T09:01:10Z

RonnieCorny: /* Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune */

===Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune===

"...... d- d- d-, did you see it?"

"It's no use, the trees over there are obstructing...... a little more to the left"

"......h- h- h-, how?"

"It's no good, that tree is obstructing it this time. ......ah, darn! It's quite frustrating! Can we cut it all down!?"

--I may do it.

Takasu Ryuji struggled as he crouched down silently in order to drop the hooligan off his shoulders. The hooligan got down on the ground violently with both feet.

"Damn!"

She swore at the whole world, unleashing her frustration, She tore off an innocent leaf of a shiso plant in the lush flower bed. The mint's scent drifted in the hellish heat of the noon of midsummer.

"Oh forget it, it's okay, that's a wrap. ......aaaah, even though I took the effort to come to school during summer vacation, I can't get one clear view of Kitamura-kun in his club activities. I am extremely unlucky......Hey, why are you ignoring me when I'm feeling down!?"

As Ryuji crouched down to pick some shiso leaves, the hooligan, known as Aisaka Taiga, kicked him right down and into the middle of the buttocks with the toe of her shoes.

"Ow...... that hurts, you dumbass!"

"You stupid idiot! You impudent dog!"

Whack! And he got slapped in the mouth this time, then Ryuji's fierce eyes shone as he shouted back at Taiga without backing off one bit.

"Hit me or whatever you want to do, but I, these shiso, you can't stop me from taking them! These mints are FREE! I'm free to take them! Do you understand!?"

"Tch! Waitaminit! Spit! Gross!"

"Shut up! It's free, I'm free to take it. besides, mint is my favorite! You should be happy to be able to enjoy these in the delicious salad noodles and pickled tuna covered rice every day! Incidentally, here, it was me who planted the mint! On dry days I'm also the one who waters them, sending the pests to the afterlife was also me! Therefore I have every right to harvest these mints!"

"......"

"Nevermind that! Help me pick them if you understand! Ah... It's good that I remembered, last time I finished picking them all, I wasn't sure how soon they would grow again. So careless, so careless, to almost forget. And I don't usually come here when summer vacation begins...... but then, the shiso plants are strong, look at this lush growth!"

Happily-- totally forgetting the original purpose for coming to school, Ryuji became preoccupied with the shiso plants. Casually keeping one step apart, he didn't notice Taiga's eyes glaring at him.

Even with the violent like a wild carnivorous animal known as "palmtop tiger", in the face of the golden sun in the hot day, concentrating on the shiso harvesting, any thought of running by Ryuji was not to be found anymore. Instead Ryuji went "he he", laughing happily, occasionally smelling the fragrance of the crop going "mmm..." while narrowing his eyes and thinking, I wouldn't mind putting some of these shiso into a sachet for my wallet and mobile phone. Whether it was the demonic eyes or the scary features of the face, he looked like a hopeless addict picking some illegal weed that was secretly cultivated in the Hokkaido region., although he was just enjoying the feeling of having a miniature agricultural life with his small personal herb garden.

"Ah, that's right, Taiga!"

"......"

A smug smile and the usual cold silence was all he got. But Ryuji crawls over to Taiga on his knees from the mint plants without minding,

"In the flower bed over there, I have also planted eggplants and cucumber. Say, don't you want to take a look!? The seedlings grew and flowered before the closing ceremonies! Though I attempted last year, it was tragically caught by the gardening club and removed...... But this year!"

"Don't want to"

"Why. ......Hey, why are you so unkind to me? What is that strange look you're giving me?(Why are you looking at me like that?)"

"You are becoming more and more detestable! I knew I should have come on my own after all."

"Why is that!?"

In the first place, the reason why we came to school in the middle of summer vacation was to get the needed textbook which Taiga left in the locker. Although he wasn't asked particularly, but Ryuji, who was bored with a lot of free time, decided to accompany her.

As they passed through the school gate, they found the baseball club practicing. Taiga's crush, Kitamura, was there. Since the closing ceremony, Taiga has not seen Kitamura. Kitamura was of course busy with club activities and can be seen from a distance, so she would not like him to see her spying on him.

And so Ryuji and Taiga hid down beside the flowerbed at the side of the school building where the flowers grew thick, nestled between the sunflowers which swayed whenever they peeked. However, the huge weeds of the mid-summer was larger than the petite body of Taiga and blocked her view. So he let Taiga sit on his shoulder. For Taiga's sake, he showed some kindness. And then,

"You said I'm detestable, how am I detestable?!"

"There are lots including......such as your face, or such as your sweaty back. You, your entire shirt is drenched. Ah, that reminds me......"

Taiga puts her hand inside her own skirt, thinking about the close contact between her buttocks and Ryuji's shoulders earlier. Her eyes widened in shock, her small face twisting with disgust.

"Uh......ugh! My ass is wet with the sweat from your back! eeew! eeew!"

She stuck out her tongue and pretended to throw up. No matter how good-natured Ryuji is, it still felt insulting.

"Oh, don't you think it's also possible that my back is getting wet from the sweat of your butt as well!?"

"Not a chance!"

Instant denial, cutting off further talks Taiga turns around going, yuck! yuck! and starts to kick at the dirt with her foot like a cat after it uses a toilet. Sweat pours from Ryuji's skin, leaving spots on the ground.

"Ow! Ow! ......cough! Stop that you idiot! I was even kind enough to carry you on my shoulders!?"

"I'm now regretting that! What a disgusting sweaty dog! go away! get lost!"

"I will be using these shiso in tonight's tempura for our dinner, how can you say such a thing!? May lightning strike you down!"

"Ha! Lightning strikes can kill the germs! Whatever, I'm going to hurry and get that thing I forgot (textbook in the locker), as for you, you can stay here and bake in the heat!"

Like more lightning strikes hurting Ryuji's feelings further, Taiga's long hair fluttered as she turned towards the school building and ran off. Ryuji quietly rubs his sweat-soaked back, while shaking off the dirt on his hair like a dog, and biting his lip thinking. I knew it, she really is a terrible person.

--that witch, definitely, will have a horrible end.

Brushing her light colored hair with a tinge of gray, Taiga walked the deserted corridor towards the classroom on her own. Her exquisite profile as refined as delicate etched glass made her look like a French doll.

If she doesn't opens her mouth, rather, if not for "that" personality of hers, everyone would see Taiga as a very beautiful young lady. Her large eyes with light-colored pupils move relaxedly, looking like a kitten as it opens its mouth, the palmtop tiger lets out a lovely yawn. At times when no one is looking, Taiga does have a most captivating face.

However, the calm arch of Taiga's eyebrows suddenly raised steeply. From the other side of the corner, loud footsteps can be heard. It seems to be coming towards this place.

Disliking such a noisy person -- ignoring her own shortcomings, Taiga pouts with irritation at once. At this rate they may collide at the corner.

......or maybe not.

She did not try to change the route to an empty path nearby, this girl is called "the palmtop tiger" for a reason . Taiga absolutely walks where she wants to walk. Even if the other person is a guy from the sumo club or even if the other person is a teacher, she did not intend to change her way. She is walking properly, the other person is breaking the rules running, there is no reason to give way.

Resolutely sticking out her elbow sharply in out, Taiga lowered her head, continuing to plunge towards the prey which approached quickly. And sure enough, the moment she reached the corner,

"Ow... oh!"

"There it is...... kiyaaaah!"

Crash, the elbow connected bluntly. The other party who was knocked over screams loudly and lands on their butt, sitting in the hall due to the force of momentum. Standing firmly like a rock, before the eyes of the unperturbed Taiga, the schoolgirl's rather short skirt opened and was exposed fully. Both her pure white thighs and the seams of her light blue underpants were 100% exposed.

"......ah ah ah uuunggh~!"

Noticing the embarrassing position, she hurriedly sat down in the hall panicking and cried out again, pulling down on the hem of her skirt. And expressing "ouch" while pressing down her considerable chest that is best seen from the above. But by pressing down too strongly, did she know that it further enhanced the rounded shape to become clearly visible?

For some unknown reason (without any explanation), an even deeper cruelty and malevolence appeared in Taiga's eyes, looking down at this figure.

"......You, pay attention"

"Ah, s.. s... sor......"

Realizing that her panties had been exposed to just another girl, she lifted her eyes in that instant with a tinge of relief. However, with a blink of an eye, she realized that it was "the palmtop tiger" that stood arrogantly in front of her.

"......te... te... te..., teno...... eeek!"

Her round cheeks lost all color of blood in that instant.

Between Taiga's eyebrows, furrows looking like sawblades appeared.

Not even apologizing for knocking into me. Instead acting frightened like a victim. I hate this kind of person the most. Incidentally, I also hate those irresponsibly big breasts. ......without stating any apparent reason.

”......can't you even say "I'm sorry"? or is it, in your world, the "te... te... te..., teno..." acts as a form of apology? eh? what a barbarian!"

"o... o... o... urk!" (TL comment:the girl is trying to say "sorry")

"You're still not apologizing!"

To quickly settle this simple issue. Facing the frightened girl, Taiga ruthlessly stepped forward. Whether the other party is a guy or a girl makes no difference, Taiga's hostility to either was easily aroused. But at this moment, it felt like her foot was stepping on something.

"......?"

The girl who collided dropped her notebook, and it was under Taiga's foot. She notices it, and grimaced,

"Aaah...... Kota-kun's notebook...... the only symbol of our love......"

she cried out in despair. Tch, and Taiga clicked her tongue while, with some emphasis, picking it up with her hands, and playing with it in her hand without returning it,

"You're really good at acting as the victim......since having something so important stepped would make you cry, then you shouldn't have dropped it in the first place......."

Glaring through her glittering and brutal eyes, sizing up the girl from head to toe. Her nasal breath was rough with excitement going "ngggh nggggh", and blood rushes throughout fueling the serious malicious intent emanating from her body. "or-, or-, sor-", the female freshman cries tearfully, seemingly frozen in that spot.

a cruel smile twisted on the rosy lips of Taiga -- now then, let's see what we can do to this big-breasted girl with audacious panties that are fully exposed.

"What is it, Sakura?"

From the other side of the corridor, a voice echoed coldly

"sis-, sister!”

the big breated girl who had her panties exposed stands up and runs away, hiding her body like a rabbit behind the girl who appeared. Taiga recognized that girl,

"......it's here......"

muttering with very low voice. From her entire small body, the scent of danger from a 1 ton tiger emanates. All reason seem to disappear from her eyes -- Taiga hates this person the most.

"What have we here. ......aah, Aisaka Taiga. You are Kitamura's friend, I believe. I,"

"......think"

The girl with waist-length flowing black hair, was cold and spoke rudely like a man, which did not match her good looks. Taiga knew her. It was the president of the student council.

The student council president work with Kitamura everyday, and often as cleaning volunteers, they walk alongside together, and Kitamura would smile happily without a word -- Taiga was bitterly jealous of that girl.

"You recognize me? ......well then, why? why are you bullying my younger sister? Can you give me a good explanation"

calmly, without showing even a trace of fear, with an indulgent smile, the obnoxious student council president asks Taiga.

"......your younger sister?"

"Ah, this is my younger sister, Kanou Sakura, a freshman. ......bullying an underclassman girl, as expected of the Palmtop Tiger, aren't we attacking an easy prey?"

The big breasted panties girl hide behind the president of the student council, her body trembled going "pu ru pu ru". Taiga points at her without hesitation,

"Hey, as the elder sister, you should be ashamed of that exhibitionist. Your younger sister was running in this corridor, and crashed into the blameless me, rather than apologizing to me she spouts some crazy words and crying as if I were the one at fault, and now hides behind you"

"Hey. ......Sakura. Is this true?"

The big breasted panties girl was startled, she grimaced, and then looked up at her elder sister gasping,

"mo... mo... more or less.... !"

as soon as she nodded, the top of her head was struck! Even Taiga felt a little sympathy seeing that merciless karate chop. With some uncertain steps, her back was pushed down in front of Taiga,

"Now, you've made me look bad! You should properly apologize! How long are you going to hide behind me!"

having been yelled at with such a resounding voice. Tears formed at the corners of her eyes as she cowered down and looked up hesitantly,

"s.. s.. s-sorry...... I'm very sorry......Aisaka-senpai......"

In front of Taiga she bowed down deeply. "Keh", and Taiga snorted through her nose losing some of her fury, brushing her hair up and decided to forgive her this time, she starts to turn away.

But,

"uhm... uhm.... no..., notebook...."

"......huh!?"

at the sound of the soft voice, Taiga turns back again and her eyes filled with murderous intent. Although the big breasted panties girl shivered with fright, she didn't hide behind her elder sister again, even though both her legs were shaking, she desperately reaches her hand out.

"uhm, uhm, the notebook......? Please return it! It's not mine! i... it's from someone important, it's our only connection! i.. i... i'll do anything~!"

however that desperation, strikes at Taiga's heart......no, it lit an inherent fire of fury.

"SH... SH.. SHUT UP! You, to what degree do you want to falsely accuse me!? I just forgot about giving this to you! You think I would want something like this!?"

"Not!"

Taking the notebook in her hands, Taiga violently throws the notebook towards the throat of the big breasted panties girl, hitting back like a butcher.

While trying to catch the notebook the big breasted panties girl fell down on her knees groaning painfully. "aaaah", hitting her elbow while the student council president looks on, Taiga turns around and starts to leave.

But just at that instant. Something jumped deliberately right into Taiga's sight.

On the cover of the notebook with the distinct 22.5 cm shoeprint in the hands of the big breasted pants girl, the owner's name was clearly written with a felt-tip pen. ------"1-A Tomiie Kota".

＊　＊　＊

”waaah~, today it's somewhat extravagant~! Ryu-chan, how much prawns are there?"

"3 pieces per person"

"yay~, yay~"

Having completed her makeup except for the lipstick, with a hot curler still attached to her brightly dyed hair, Ryuji's mother - Yasuko, wearing a pink camisole and Ryuji's old middle-school jersey (track) pants and her huge breasts swaying wildly.

The innocent child-like face happily holding the chopsticks, looked like a young girl with her makeup, with beautifully painted rosy pink glossy nails, her hair flowing over her smooth collarbone, highlighting her feminine charms with a sweet scent that emits from Yasuko's skin more suitable for her real age and her evening work.

"properly eat the vegetables too, ok? and also the shiso"

"tempura shiso, I loooo~ve it! Ryu-chan too, I loooo~ve!"

At the narrow and low dining table, like peeking through a sheer cloth the colorful vegetables can be seen as well as Ryuji's wonderful tempura all lined up. In the miso soup, there is tofu, daikon (radish/turnip), vegetables; the steamed rice mixed with five spices; and today's side dish, pickled eggplants --- grown in secret in the school's gardens. As for the tempura sauce, lemon juice, or grated daikon, or anything to suit the personal taste.

half past 6 in the evening, Takasu family living room. Sitting around the low dining table were Ryuji, Yasuko, and Taiga, ready to have their usual dinner.

"bon appetit", they all said together, Yasuko reaches over for the prawn, Ryuji brings the miso soup to his mouth. Taiga's chopsticks hovers over the prawns, but why is she hesitating,

"Hey, move your chopsticks"

Ryuji scowled. But Taiga just grimaced, without any retort, and just like that stopped moving.

"......what is it?"

"......what's the matter? Taiga-chan?"

Even though she was being asked by both mother and son Taiga remains seated rigidly. "......" keeping her mouth shut. The usual Taiga would have taken even Ryuji's share of the mains together when she extended her chopsticks. Yasuko is concerned, and puts down her chopsticks,

”I see... I see..., sorry ＊ Ya-chan absolutely looo~ves Taiga-chan~ ＊"

"huh"

swoosh, and Taiga was hugged tightly. she kisses "tsup tsup tsuuuup". Being buried between those huge breasts Taiga couldn't make a sound, before long, her small hands pushed painfully with a pitter-patter sound

"I can't breathe! I can't breathe!"

"Aaaahh......"

at the time she was released, she gasps for air and simultaneously collapses onto the seat futon (zabuton). After a little while, not wanting Ryuji and Yasuko to worry about her, she slowly straightens her body.

"......no.., nothing. actually, I just a little bit......don't really feel like eating anything"

"You don't have any appetite!?"

"That is just so~"

"......even me, even when I'm slightly ill, i would still have it! ......this, take this. and this too"

Taiga passes a prawn towards Yasuko, another towards Ryuji, and the other one left, after being dipped in the tempura sauce, she gingerly brings to her own small mouth like trying out the taste.

"Don't be unreasonable (don't force yourself to eat), are you really okay?"

taking a bite, Taiga nods her head while sprinkling salt, adding more. pauses and continues eating it as it is.

"......don't worry. I can eat this. delicious"

also taking in a mouthful of white rice.

"you should probably take back the prawn? you should savor it since you're able to eat, you will see shrimps on our dining table only once a year~"

"it's ok, after eating the vegetables I'm already good"

after eating one prawn, Taiga's appetite seem to have improved, as she also drinks the miso soup. And so Ryuji was relieved,

"Shiso can be considered medicine. You should take more"

The platter of mint was turned so that it faced Taiga. Taiga nods, and takes one piece to her mouth immediately. She seems to like it, taking another piece.

In the end, Taiga also eats the other vegetable tempura, the pickled vegetables, the miso soup, and also some rice (this is a very rare situation, normally she can easily finish three bowls), for the time being we have finished eating.

Yasuko also felt relieved after seeing that, and heads out to work taking the Chanel bag that she always treasured--some disaster would occur, several hours later.

"......Ryuji......I......may be dying......"

Ryuji turns his head upon hearing this shocking statement, it was already after 10 in the evening.

As usual they were relaxing after eating and having a good time, folding a cushion in half and spreading it, the two of them were carelessly lying flat down on the tatami mat watching television. Neither of them did anything, they begin to fall asleep.

"......I'm dying......"

"wh......what?"

Noticing Taiga behind Ryuji, she seemed to have sprawled down awkwardly, somewhat like toppling sideways holding her stomach, her complexion turned very pale. Although Taiga has always been very fair-skinned, her skin tone now was a tinge of pale beige, she was very pale. Ryuji hurriedly gets up, crawling over causing Taiga's hair to scatter on the tatami with his knees.

"How is it!? Is it a stomach-ache!?"

"i-.. it hurts... a... lot...."

"do you need to go to the toilet? can you stand? are you going to throw up?!"

"toilet...... I don't think the pain is that bad......"

Wheezing and coughing, she vomited, Taiga softly shivers. Traces of cold sweat form on her damp forehead, it was quite cold.

"Is it your Stomach!?"

"I-..., I don't know...... it just hurts..... here"

Around the navel of the dress which has a repeating cotton lace pattern which expands softly, she strokes that area with her small hand. Ryuji realized clearly, this is quite serious.

"w-, we should go to the hospital!"

Inside the birdcage placed in a corner of the living room, a disfigured parrot called inko-chan also chimed "that's right!" while nodding with the whites of its eyes bulging.

"oh yes, ambulance......must call the ambulance!"

"i-, i-, isn't that a bit exaggerated....?"

"but you can't walk, right!? aren't you dying!?"

"Calling an ambulance just for a stomach-ache......don't......I-... I can cope......uuugh~......"

Taiga strains her voice, and twists her body to try to endure the pain. It can't be helped---Ryuji quickly opened the phonebook, verifying that the nearby university hospital have night time emergency facilities, dials the phone while taking his wallet and the health insurance card and putting them in his pocket.

"Oh! use my insurance card!"

The trembling becomes more apparent. The health insurance card is taken out and inserted into the slanting back pocket, carrying the light body of the weary Taiga who was lying down. Taiga was silent, like a ventriloquist's doll being carried in the arms of Ryuji, her face pressed against his shoulders,

"......nngh......nnggh......"

while enduring the pain she moans softly.

Impatiently locking the door with the housekey, Ryuji rushes out from the front door even though he was only wearing his sandals. Making loud "kang kang" noise that rang on the iron stairs as he ran down, carrying Taiga to the main street to catch a taxi,

"Sorry, there's someone sick here! Would you mind letting us go ahead!?"

Jumping out in front of an older office worker who had just stopped a taxi, he pleads. Under the light that shines on Ryuji's evil-looking sanpaku eyes, the older man felt threatened, and dropped his bag out of instinctive fear, and takes one step back,

"thank you very much!"

Ryuji interpreted that as a "Yes", and slides in the open taxi door. Informing the name of the university hospital and screaming "hurry, this person is sick!" to the driver, who adjusted the rearview mirror and nodded many times. Understanding the circumstance, made him realize it was not a car-jacking.

"Taiga, hang in there! we're almost there!"

Taiga cannot even sit properly, instead she could only lie prone on Ryuji's lap, even now trembling due to the pain.

So pitiful--no matter how she had verbally abused him, or the violent treatment he received, They were kindred who ate meals out of the same pot. Taiga is really a girl after all. Ryuji can see that she was patiently enduring the pain, trying not to cry out loud. And so he brushes her long hair gently that has become disheveled.

Just what on earth is going on? Is it food poisoning, appendicitis, or is it some other worse disease?

"......dead......"

"id-, idiot! stop saying you're dead or dying! saying such words will only make things worse!"

"......you're wrong......it's not me....that fellow......"

maybe he is dead.

While lying on Ryuji's knee, Taiga was babbling incoherently. Maybe it was playing dead, that fellow, that black tomcat, or maybe it really is dead. Then perhaps, this is its curse.

"wh~.., what? what do you mean?"

"......uhm, freshman's, female......final memento, those words......that thing......after death, that relic, that maybe....oh"

"that freshman's, uhm......are you talking about the incident this morning?"

It was when Ryuji was in the middle of harvesting the shiso and eggplants when Taiga encountered that incident in the school building with the freshman girl. Ryuji heard about this when they were on their way home.

"I..... stepped on it at that time, that notebook......because it was too ominous, i didn't say a word......that-, that thing, was......[Tomiie Kota's] property......"

Can it be? (No way), Ryuji instinctively stares around the ear of Taiga who's facing down. He knew Tomiie Kota. He is a close junior of Kitamura, a freshman in the student council, and is Taiga's so-called "black tomcat"--they say misfortune will follow when a black cat crosses one's path. In Taiga's case, it was Tomiie Kota in particular, who is the black cat that brought about this misfortune. Every time Tomiie Kota appears before Taiga, some unbelievable misfortune seem to happen to Taiga.

Her lunch sandwich would be trampled. The canned coffee would fly out of the machine and eventually slam onto her head. When cutting the tail of a fried horse mackerel, it gets stuck onto her forehead, this can also be attributed to him; when she was was walking from school, she would get hit by a dropped eraser; sometimes soya milk would be sprayed onto her face -- it's because he is Kitamura's junior, and simply for this one reason that he is able to still survive, if not because of this, Taiga would have already personally delivered this insolent underclassman to hell.

Ryuji also knows about this very well. Those encounters with Taiga were probably also miserable and unfortunate occurrences for him. But then,

"the-, the-, therefore, why the hell did this curse......"

"He's dead......that fellow, is dead......soul in that notebook......I, stepped on that......?"

Taiga's body continued shivering weakly. Her fingers grasping Ryuji's kneecaps through the trousers felt icy-cold,

"......it keeps following......that fellow's, bad luck, through his spirit.....ugh......"

Taiga continued to moan, the sound of her suffering echoing in the silent taxi.

＊　＊　＊

"For nighttime emergency medical diagnosis and treatment, it can be troublesome unless you telephone first, don't you think?"

......at last, we're here. carrying Taiga, who was trembling, to the reception counter who murmured for the first time:

"th~, that being said......i'm sorry. and so..., uhm..., can we get this medical examination started?"

"What was that?"

The woman in a business attire with the strange thick makeup was a bit unnerved in front of Ryuji's scary face, carrying Taiga carefully and looking up. Taiga seemed to be already at death's door, could not respond to the situation,

"It seems to be a stomachache. She was already feeling ill before the meal, and it seems to have become very bad a few minutes after eating!"

"What did she eat-?"

"Tempura!"

"......Tempura!?"

Ha!

and, i heard a snort that sounded like a nasal laugh -- hopefully it was just my imagination. The woman tosses a sheet of paper forward from the counter,

"here, please fill this-"

and even though being told that, his arm doesn't move but remained holding onto Taiga. Ryuji cuts the woman off, carefully lays Taiga down on the sofa of the lobby. even though Taiga's eyes were closed, she doesn't lose consciousness, gritting her teeth to endure the pain with an expression of anguish. The fluorescent light were turned off, only small electric lamps dimly illuminated the spacious lobby. There were no sign of any other patients, and voices echoed strangely.

"pl-, pl-, please lend me a pen"

after a cold glare, a pen was rolled across the counter with the "cara cara" sound echoing.

in any case; name and address (the house number of the building next to Ryuji's home should be correct, right?), symptom, I scribbled it hurriedly,

"er-, uh, is the insurance card good by tomorrow?"

"please wait over there on the sofa-"

his question wasn't answered either, and the paper wasn't looked at also, the woman just casually tossed it into an unknown box at the side. What kind of treatment is this? he wanted to ask, but it seemed better to just obey that woman's instructions and wait. Ryuji went back to Taiga who moaned, and sat down beside her, but somehow, had an inexplicable idea.

this place, it's no different from the jungle.

......isn't it? Should he take her to another place before it's too late? That woman at the reception counter is certainly not a doctor or a nurse, but her symptoms are very dire, it's probably better to find out her condition now. Glancing quietly at the suffering Taiga, however, luck seemed to change in that moment of hesitation.

"Aisaka-san, please!"

A voice calls from the examination room, and soon that woman approaches us pushing a wheelchair with a clattering sound.

"Please ride in this-"

Taiga opened her eyes slightly, and reflexively twists her body and tries to escape as if sensing something foreboding, the woman quickly reaches across and with Ryuji's help, grasps the child and places her onto the wheelchair. The woman than pushed the wheelchair efficiently into the examination room. Ryuji hastily pursues after them.

This is the patient-, the woman announced immediately, and the open door of the examination room started closing automatically.

gaaa! just as the doors were closing, he grabbed onto Taiga's leg and faltered. Ignoring both the wheezing Ryuji and the silent Taiga, the woman calmly opens the door,

"Please, go in!"

Without warning, she pushes the wheelchair in and lets it go,

"aiyee!"

Taiga's careening wheelchair was caught with the foot of a slipper by a young man in a white coat -- why is his head shaven, this doctor. He examines Taiga's leg while smiling amiably,

"What seems to be the problem-? ah, this leg? Is it painful, if that's the case I can surely heal it quickly."

"that was caused by banging on that door just now! It's stomachache!"

If Ryuji didn't immediately say anything, the doctor would probably only examine the leg and send them home after. Ah, abdominal pain? how much (pain)? and the doctor puts on the stethoscope to listen to the stomach of Taiga.

But Taiga's bulky cotton lace clothes had too much frills piled up to the point of death (also known as Furi Furi one-piece virtue), seeing this, the doctor shakes his head, as if he cannot understand where to open it.

"hah! I give up. lie down on the examination table for a while-, put your head here-, yes, yes, that's it"

the wheelchair's brakes weren't engaged, Taiga trembled as she endured the pain struggling while slowly transferring to the examination table. The doctor only reads the medical chart without noticing anything else. Ryuji being flustered, tries to lend a hand to Taiga, but,

"Ah, are you with her? her relative-?"

"eh? uhm... no, a friend......"

Suddenly being asked by that doctor, Ryuji turned his head around, in that instant, Taiga fell off the swiveling wheelchair that slipped. And she hit the hard floor with a dull thumping sound.

"Oh! Ta-, Taiga!"

"......uh......"

Clinging onto the wobbling consultation seat, Taiga stands up with a dazed look, quietly rubbing her forehead. The doctor than jokes,

"aha ha ha ha ha~, what are you doing!? is that where it hurts~!? what's the~"

the doctor seem to jokingly place the stethoscope on the forehead, until he noticed the evil eyes of Ryuji who stared in utter amazement at this unbelievable scene.

"......you-, your face, isn't it scary~! can you go away for a little while so as not to distract me!? It's really scaring me~!"

"eh......bu~, but......"

"it's ok, it's ok! just wait over there!"

He was chased off up to the doorway of the examination room almost totally pushed out. The curtain is closed, the view of Taiga passes out of sight. But how can he leave that seemingly useless doctor and Taiga alone together? he regretfully chews on his fingernails,

"......"

"......"

looking around, an elementary schoolboy was sitting in the corner of the examination room. he has asthmatic spasm but still raises and opens his mouth widely to inhale some steam, arms crossed with a "Nobody else is allowed to fiddle with this" posture while tightly hugging the machine. His eyes were glazed over like dead fish slowly losing freshness -- perhaps, it's not only due to the illness that he is fatigued.

It was absolutely a mistake to have come here, realizing this now.

"Aaargh!"

Taiga's tearful voice echoed. Just like the scream of a bear caught in a trap.

"It's alright, it's alright, I'm just drawing a little blood! Ah, failed again. ......tch! what the shit!. ......this time for sure......still nothing, tch! can't find the vein, wait a minute,"

"Aaaah, aaahh, aaaaaaahhh~!"

"I'm just looking for the vein......tch! No, this is no good! switching to the other arm, this is also useless, tch! tch! shit!"

The sounds echoing in the consultation room were scarier than anything in the world. As the terrifying voice of Taiga came to a halt, Ryuji was left standing petrified. The tongue-click noise continues, making him want to cover his ears, but the fact was Taiga was brought here by himself. He cannot avert his eyes from this scary responsibility......well, let's stop this already, have to tell him to stop this. And then have to get her out and go to another place.

With that determination he opens the curtain,

"Ha! I got it... I got it! with this it shouldn't hurts so much anymore, once we can examine the blood we should be able to determine if there was infection inside the stomach, you can rest assured from this blood check-!"

The syringe is full of Taiga's somewhat strange looking dark colored blood. The doctor smiles proudly after such a difficult ordeal,

"there, just wait a little bit! here, take this as an apology for the pain caused!"

Taking out a candy from the pocket of the white coat, unwrapping it and dropping it in the mouth of Taiga which remains half-open without moving. Taiga grabs Ryuji's hand suddenly, and coughs out the candy. The candy rolls a bit in Ryuji's hand before becoming stuck. ......that's understandable, but, on the other hand, Ryuji was feeling troubled. If a person comes to the hospital with a painful stomach, why would you give them candy......

after all this, we were told, we have to go back to the sofa of the waiting room again for another 20 minutes. Taiga plops herself down and occasionally groans, and continues to shiver slightly and rubs circles on her stomach desperately. The inner side of her left arm was quickly bruising, absorbent cotton was taped to the inner side of her right arm, a seemingly impossible amount of blood seeping into it. Her eyes glazed over lifelessly, and her complexion became terribly pasty.

"......Taiga. Hey......"

"......"

There was no response. Her voice doesn't come out anymore either. Her lips were parched dry and cracked, but maybe because she also bit on them to endure the pain, that's why it is bleeding a bit. The truth was, she surely looked worse now then before coming to this place.

It can't be helped, but the cause of the stomach pain must be discovered, and it must be treated,

"uhm, ahem~, I'm not really sure!"

from behind, incoherent voices conversed idly.

With a sinking feeling, Ryuji looks back at that doctor standing behind him. In his hand was an intravenous bag that he was going to hang onto a metal support .

"that blood we drew just now, it won't be able to help us determine the cause of the stomachache!"

"wo~, wo~, won't be able......"

"but it will help us to determine that there is no inflammation of the appendix. On the other hand, this may be something that we can't just treat at an emergency ward!"

Huh! feeling dismayed at this time in the face of the smiling doctor , while discreetly keeping Taiga behind him, Ryuji desperately questioned the doctor.

"if it's not intestinal, then, could it be some women's issue, for example gynecological problems......"

"If that's the case, that would not be considered a health emergency, unfortunately! If you really want to know what is wrong, please come back during regular hours to consult a general practitioner, oh yes, as this is a university hospital, there is no referral, so it can be quite expensive!"

"so~, somehow could it be catarrh or...... those things are......"

"That-is-why~, she did not have diarrhea, right!? nor did she she throw up, right!? even though you have come to the emergency room, we were still unable to treat it! There is no bleeding in her stomach, and there is no symptom that warrants treatment at an emergency ward! Is it food poisoning, there doesn't seem to be any such acute symptoms! Neither is it constipation! and it doesn't seem to be gas! anyway, the only thing noticeable is that she is in pain but cannot elaborate what is the pain, so...this!"

and why do you seem to be so happy, or is it merely the night shifts causing you to have high emotional tension, the doctor just pointed at the intravenous drip. Picking up the readied tube, and as soon as the cap of the needle was removed,

"This is pain-killer! Ah, this is good, a needle was left in a while ago just in case something like this might happen. This child, her blood vessels are quite difficult to find~"

The cotton on the inner right arm of Taiga was peeled off. Blood was gradually seeping out......the needle on the rubber-like mouth still remains stuck. Eehhh......but Ryuji takes a few steps back, not able to do anything. The doctor works in front of Ryuji, with great skill and dexterity, adjusts the rate of the intravenous drip,

"when the drip runs out, call me!"

"......he~, here, leave the IV drip here......? this, in the lobby?"

"there will probably be other patients, therefore we must keep the examination room free. Because sometimes serious injuries do arrive"

"......that sounds terrible......"

"like ruptured intestine"

not really caring about accounts about injuries to internal organs, and nonchalantly divulging such findings, the doctor finishes by turning back to the examination room. This university hospital certainly has a reputation as a very advanced lifesaving institution, it is one of Japan's leading hospitals. It's only logical that such serious cases would be sent here.

However, I do get it, and Ryuji incidentally also came to an unusual understanding. An excellent doctor will surely be assigned to more urgent lifesaving situations, this young doctor with seemingly less skills might have been left behind here. Oh my, although this is just the imaginings of a selfish layman, judging by the suitability of that unnecessary examination~

"Taiga!?"

looking over suddenly, Ryuji shouted shrilly. Rashes were appearing all over the entire body of Taiga to which the painkiller was administered, especially from the inner arm where the needle of the IV drip is stuck. The hives can be seen spreading quickly, connecting together forming large masses of rashes,

"Oh, oh, OH......EMERGENCY! TAIGA! someone help!"

"......oou~, aaaargh......"

"Someone please come and help!"

Mouth gaping wide and wailing beside Ryuji, Taiga noticed the IV drip needle inserted in her arm for the first time.

"wh~, what~......can't breath.....whew~! this......wha~......ooow......whew~!"

"Taiga, hang in there! This is the drug to stop the pain!"

"......tch, stop... pain..., drug......I......"

"wheez wheez" sounds like from a high-pitched whistle were emanating from the throat of Taiga. Her body was twisted in pain. Her airway narrowed. The doctor and several nurses hurries over, looking at Taiga's face, and at that instant "bong!" and the eyelid can be seen swelling up,

"Oh, this is bad"

I, am allergic to pain-killers.

--these few words were squeaked out within Taiga's scant breath with great difficulty. Well then, is this an allergic reaction? Doctor, why didn't you first inquire about allergies? And, why was the intravenous drip administered without obtaining the patient's consent?

But Ryuji did not know yet. Of course Taiga did not know either. Neither did the nurses nor the doctor know. Already on the floor above, on this hospital's second floor, a new misery......no, the curse of the black cat had already begun to carve its way to bring more terror for Taiga.

Second floor, at the public telephone at the nurse's station.

A high school freshman who is hospitalized with bone fractures in many places all over his body, grasping several 10 yen coins in his hand, paces back and forth unceasingly in front of the nurse's station since a little while ago.

what is it, Tomiie-kun. want to telephone your girlfriend? don't have a telephone card?

what is it, what is it, you do have a girlfriend!?

eh-what kind of person is she? girlie gal? clean and innocent? come on, come on, unless you call her quickly the grandma of ward 402 will be on the phone again for a long time.

We won't listen in, we're not listening in! see, we are not straining up our ears to eavesdrop.

go ahead, go ahead, everyone encouraged~!

he was extremely hesitant and awkward but in the end, only calls home after all, and asks for some change of pants, and quickly leaves the nurses' station afterwards. He was not yet mature enough to be able to call the girl he likes in front of those working elder sisters.

At this time, the remaining 10 yen coin that was tightly clasped was accidentally dropped. The coin went "clink clank" as it bounds and roll down the stairs, it was impossible to pick up as it rolled down and ended on the first floor before you could say "ah". Although it's only a 10 yen coin, money is still money, so he runs after it in a hurry, running all the way down to the lobby on the first floor. The rolling coin made a "korokoro" sound was still being chased, began to roll on to a deserted corridor.

As she was placed on the stretcher, Taiga was already quickly losing consciousness. She knew that she was having a lengthy bout of severe allergy. The mucous membrane of her eyes, inside of her mouth and trachea swells up more and more, and becomes hot and itchy, and causes her to shiver. The abdominal pain becomes more severe, and a dark fog seemed to start to drift in front of her vision gradually.

Shouldn't Ryuji be by her side? desperately twisting her neck, and so Taiga saw that thing.

The moving stretcher was heading towards a T-shaped corridor.

from the left side onto the right, whoa, and it ran right through.

A death flag -- these words came to Taiga's mind. Because of that fellow, that fellow probably resembles that black tomcat who should already be dead.

"Wha~!?"

The first to cry out was a nurse. "kachink", suddenly something small and hard got caught in between one of the wheels of the speeding stretcher. The wheel on one side of the stretcher stopped causing the stretcher to spin 180 degrees on its axle, sandwiching the nurse onto the wall, while the doctor's foot was run over by the stretcher that kept going forward due the inclined floor, causing him to stumble. Then Ryuji stumbled over that dumpling-man and hits his jaw on the floor, and then Taiga, who was suffering from severe allergic reaction and stomachache, flew through the air at great force -- the sudden stop of the stretcher threw her violently onto the wall causing her to bounce off it, and then she lands her buttocks into the middle of the potted plants.

The last thing that Taiga saw was the overturned stretcher, and the dumpling-man crushed underneath .

A minute after all that, no one made a sound, it was just a a catastrophe. After all, for a 10 yen coin to cause such a disaster, it's something that's unimaginable.

＊　＊　＊

(~90%~)

Toradora!:Spin-Off Legend of the Black Catboy of Misfortune

2009-12-11T08:33:41Z

RonnieCorny: /* Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune */

===Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune===

"...... d- d- d-, did you see it?"

"It's no use, the trees over there are obstructing...... a little more to the left"

"......h- h- h-, how?"

"It's no good, that tree is obstructing it this time. ......ah, darn! It's quite frustrating! Can we cut it all down!?"

--I may do it.

Takasu Ryuji struggled as he crouched down silently in order to drop the hooligan off his shoulders. The hooligan got down on the ground violently with both feet.

"Damn!"

She swore at the whole world, unleashing her frustration, She tore off an innocent leaf of a shiso plant in the lush flower bed. The mint's scent drifted in the hellish heat of the noon of midsummer.

"Oh forget it, it's okay, that's a wrap. ......aaaah, even though I took the effort to come to school during summer vacation, I can't get one clear view of Kitamura-kun in his club activities. I am extremely unlucky......Hey, why are you ignoring me when I'm feeling down!?"

As Ryuji crouched down to pick some shiso leaves, the hooligan, known as Aisaka Taiga, kicked him right down and into the middle of the buttocks with the toe of her shoes.

"Ow...... that hurts, you dumbass!"

"You stupid idiot! You impudent dog!"

Whack! And he got slapped in the mouth this time, then Ryuji's fierce eyes shone as he shouted back at Taiga without backing off one bit.

"Hit me or whatever you want to do, but I, these shiso, you can't stop me from taking them! These mints are FREE! I'm free to take them! Do you understand!?"

"Tch! Waitaminit! Spit! Gross!"

"Shut up! It's free, I'm free to take it. besides, mint is my favorite! You should be happy to be able to enjoy these in the delicious salad noodles and pickled tuna covered rice every day! Incidentally, here, it was me who planted the mint! On dry days I'm also the one who waters them, sending the pests to the afterlife was also me! Therefore I have every right to harvest these mints!"

"......"

"Nevermind that! Help me pick them if you understand! Ah... It's good that I remembered, last time I finished picking them all, I wasn't sure how soon they would grow again. So careless, so careless, to almost forget. And I don't usually come here when summer vacation begins...... but then, the shiso plants are strong, look at this lush growth!"

Happily-- totally forgetting the original purpose for coming to school, Ryuji became preoccupied with the shiso plants. Casually keeping one step apart, he didn't notice Taiga's eyes glaring at him.

Even with the violent like a wild carnivorous animal known as "palmtop tiger", in the face of the golden sun in the hot day, concentrating on the shiso harvesting, any thought of running by Ryuji was not to be found anymore. Instead Ryuji went "he he", laughing happily, occasionally smelling the fragrance of the crop going "mmm..." while narrowing his eyes and thinking, I wouldn't mind putting some of these shiso into a sachet for my wallet and mobile phone. Whether it was the demonic eyes or the scary features of the face, he looked like a hopeless addict picking some illegal weed that was secretly cultivated in the Hokkaido region., although he was just enjoying the feeling of having a miniature agricultural life with his small personal herb garden.

"Ah, that's right, Taiga!"

"......"

A smug smile and the usual cold silence was all he got. But Ryuji crawls over to Taiga on his knees from the mint plants without minding,

"In the flower bed over there, I have also planted eggplants and cucumber. Say, don't you want to take a look!? The seedlings grew and flowered before the closing ceremonies! Though I attempted last year, it was tragically caught by the gardening club and removed...... But this year!"

"Don't want to"

"Why. ......Hey, why are you so unkind to me? What is that strange look you're giving me?(Why are you looking at me like that?)"

"You are becoming more and more detestable! I knew I should have come on my own after all."

"Why is that!?"

In the first place, the reason why we came to school in the middle of summer vacation was to get the needed textbook which Taiga left in the locker. Although he wasn't asked particularly, but Ryuji, who was bored with a lot of free time, decided to accompany her.

As they passed through the school gate, they found the baseball club practicing. Taiga's crush, Kitamura, was there. Since the closing ceremony, Taiga has not seen Kitamura. Kitamura was of course busy with club activities and can be seen from a distance, so she would not like him to see her spying on him.

And so Ryuji and Taiga hid down beside the flowerbed at the side of the school building where the flowers grew thick, nestled between the sunflowers which swayed whenever they peeked. However, the huge weeds of the mid-summer was larger than the petite body of Taiga and blocked her view. So he let Taiga sit on his shoulder. For Taiga's sake, he showed some kindness. And then,

"You said I'm detestable, how am I detestable?!"

"There are lots including......such as your face, or such as your sweaty back. You, your entire shirt is drenched. Ah, that reminds me......"

Taiga puts her hand inside her own skirt, thinking about the close contact between her buttocks and Ryuji's shoulders earlier. Her eyes widened in shock, her small face twisting with disgust.

"Uh......ugh! My ass is wet with the sweat from your back! eeew! eeew!"

She stuck out her tongue and pretended to throw up. No matter how good-natured Ryuji is, it still felt insulting.

"Oh, don't you think it's also possible that my back is getting wet from the sweat of your butt as well!?"

"Not a chance!"

Instant denial, cutting off further talks Taiga turns around going, yuck! yuck! and starts to kick at the dirt with her foot like a cat after it uses a toilet. Sweat pours from Ryuji's skin, leaving spots on the ground.

"Ow! Ow! ......cough! Stop that you idiot! I was even kind enough to carry you on my shoulders!?"

"I'm now regretting that! What a disgusting sweaty dog! go away! get lost!"

"I will be using these shiso in tonight's tempura for our dinner, how can you say such a thing!? May lightning strike you down!"

"Ha! Lightning strikes can kill the germs! Whatever, I'm going to hurry and get that thing I forgot (textbook in the locker), as for you, you can stay here and bake in the heat!"

Like more lightning strikes hurting Ryuji's feelings further, Taiga's long hair fluttered as she turned towards the school building and ran off. Ryuji quietly rubs his sweat-soaked back, while shaking off the dirt on his hair like a dog, and biting his lip thinking. I knew it, she really is a terrible person.

--that witch, definitely, will have a horrible end.

Brushing her light colored hair with a tinge of gray, Taiga walked the deserted corridor towards the classroom on her own. Her exquisite profile as refined as delicate etched glass made her look like a French doll.

If she doesn't opens her mouth, rather, if not for "that" personality of hers, everyone would see Taiga as a very beautiful young lady. Her large eyes with light-colored pupils move relaxedly, looking like a kitten as it opens its mouth, the palmtop tiger lets out a lovely yawn. At times when no one is looking, Taiga does have a most captivating face.

However, the calm arch of Taiga's eyebrows suddenly raised steeply. From the other side of the corner, loud footsteps can be heard. It seems to be coming towards this place.

Disliking such a noisy person -- ignoring her own shortcomings, Taiga pouts with irritation at once. At this rate they may collide at the corner.

......or maybe not.

She did not try to change the route to an empty path nearby, this girl is called "the palmtop tiger" for a reason . Taiga absolutely walks where she wants to walk. Even if the other person is a guy from the sumo club or even if the other person is a teacher, she did not intend to change her way. She is walking properly, the other person is breaking the rules running, there is no reason to give way.

Resolutely sticking out her elbow sharply in out, Taiga lowered her head, continuing to plunge towards the prey which approached quickly. And sure enough, the moment she reached the corner,

"Ow... oh!"

"There it is...... kiyaaaah!"

Crash, the elbow connected bluntly. The other party who was knocked over screams loudly and lands on their butt, sitting in the hall due to the force of momentum. Standing firmly like a rock, before the eyes of the unperturbed Taiga, the schoolgirl's rather short skirt opened and was exposed fully. Both her pure white thighs and the seams of her light blue underpants were 100% exposed.

"......ah ah ah uuunggh~!"

Noticing the embarrassing position, she hurriedly sat down in the hall panicking and cried out again, pulling down on the hem of her skirt. And expressing "ouch" while pressing down her considerable chest that is best seen from the above. But by pressing down too strongly, did she know that it further enhanced the rounded shape to become clearly visible?

For some unknown reason (without any explanation), an even deeper cruelty and malevolence appeared in Taiga's eyes, looking down at this figure.

"......You, pay attention"

"Ah, s.. s... sor......"

Realizing that her panties had been exposed to just another girl, she lifted her eyes in that instant with a tinge of relief. However, with a blink of an eye, she realized that it was "the palmtop tiger" that stood arrogantly in front of her.

"......te... te... te..., teno...... eeek!"

Her round cheeks lost all color of blood in that instant.

Between Taiga's eyebrows, furrows looking like sawblades appeared.

Not even apologizing for knocking into me. Instead acting frightened like a victim. I hate this kind of person the most. Incidentally, I also hate those irresponsibly big breasts. ......without stating any apparent reason.

”......can't you even say "I'm sorry"? or is it, in your world, the "te... te... te..., teno..." acts as a form of apology? eh? what a barbarian!"

"o... o... o... urk!" (TL comment:the girl is trying to say "sorry")

"You're still not apologizing!"

To quickly settle this simple issue. Facing the frightened girl, Taiga ruthlessly stepped forward. Whether the other party is a guy or a girl makes no difference, Taiga's hostility to either was easily aroused. But at this moment, it felt like her foot was stepping on something.

"......?"

The girl who collided dropped her notebook, and it was under Taiga's foot. She notices it, and grimaced,

"Aaah...... Kota-kun's notebook...... the only symbol of our love......"

she cried out in despair. Tch, and Taiga clicked her tongue while, with some emphasis, picking it up with her hands, and playing with it in her hand without returning it,

"You're really good at acting as the victim......since having something so important stepped would make you cry, then you shouldn't have dropped it in the first place......."

Glaring through her glittering and brutal eyes, sizing up the girl from head to toe. Her nasal breath was rough with excitement going "ngggh nggggh", and blood rushes throughout fueling the serious malicious intent emanating from her body. "or-, or-, sor-", the female freshman cries tearfully, seemingly frozen in that spot.

a cruel smile twisted on the rosy lips of Taiga -- now then, let's see what we can do to this big-breasted girl with audacious panties that are fully exposed.

"What is it, Sakura?"

From the other side of the corridor, a voice echoed coldly

"sis-, sister!”

the big breated girl who had her panties exposed stands up and runs away, hiding her body like a rabbit behind the girl who appeared. Taiga recognized that girl,

"......it's here......"

muttering with very low voice. From her entire small body, the scent of danger from a 1 ton tiger emanates. All reason seem to disappear from her eyes -- Taiga hates this person the most.

"What have we here. ......aah, Aisaka Taiga. You are Kitamura's friend, I believe. I,"

"......think"

The girl with waist-length flowing black hair, was cold and spoke rudely like a man, which did not match her good looks. Taiga knew her. It was the president of the student council.

The student council president work with Kitamura everyday, and often as cleaning volunteers, they walk alongside together, and Kitamura would smile happily without a word -- Taiga was bitterly jealous of that girl.

"You recognize me? ......well then, why? why are you bullying my younger sister? Can you give me a good explanation"

calmly, without showing even a trace of fear, with an indulgent smile, the obnoxious student council president asks Taiga.

"......your younger sister?"

"Ah, this is my younger sister, Kanou Sakura, a freshman. ......bullying an underclassman girl, as expected of the Palmtop Tiger, aren't we attacking an easy prey?"

The big breasted panties girl hide behind the president of the student council, her body trembled going "pu ru pu ru". Taiga points at her without hesitation,

"Hey, as the elder sister, you should be ashamed of that exhibitionist. Your younger sister was running in this corridor, and crashed into the blameless me, rather than apologizing to me she spouts some crazy words and crying as if I were the one at fault, and now hides behind you"

"Hey. ......Sakura. Is this true?"

The big breasted panties girl was startled, she grimaced, and then looked up at her elder sister gasping,

"mo... mo... more or less.... !"

as soon as she nodded, the top of her head was struck! Even Taiga felt a little sympathy seeing that merciless karate chop. With some uncertain steps, her back was pushed down in front of Taiga,

"Now, you've made me look bad! You should properly apologize! How long are you going to hide behind me!"

having been yelled at with such a resounding voice. Tears formed at the corners of her eyes as she cowered down and looked up hesitantly,

"s.. s.. s-sorry...... I'm very sorry......Aisaka-senpai......"

In front of Taiga she bowed down deeply. "Keh", and Taiga snorted through her nose losing some of her fury, brushing her hair up and decided to forgive her this time, she starts to turn away.

But,

"uhm... uhm.... no..., notebook...."

"......huh!?"

at the sound of the soft voice, Taiga turns back again and her eyes filled with murderous intent. Although the big breasted panties girl shivered with fright, she didn't hide behind her elder sister again, even though both her legs were shaking, she desperately reaches her hand out.

"uhm, uhm, the notebook......? Please return it! It's not mine! i... it's from someone important, it's our only connection! i.. i... i'll do anything~!"

however that desperation, strikes at Taiga's heart......no, it lit an inherent fire of fury.

"SH... SH.. SHUT UP! You, to what degree do you want to falsely accuse me!? I just forgot about giving this to you! You think I would want something like this!?"

"Not!"

Taking the notebook in her hands, Taiga violently throws the notebook towards the throat of the big breasted panties girl, hitting back like a butcher.

While trying to catch the notebook the big breasted panties girl fell down on her knees groaning painfully. "aaaah", hitting her elbow while the student council president looks on, Taiga turns around and starts to leave.

But just at that instant. Something jumped deliberately right into Taiga's sight.

On the cover of the notebook with the distinct 22.5 cm shoeprint in the hands of the big breasted pants girl, the owner's name was clearly written with a felt-tip pen. ------"1-A Tomiie Kota".

＊　＊　＊

”waaah~, today it's somewhat extravagant~! Ryu-chan, how much prawns are there?"

"3 pieces per person"

"yay~, yay~"

Having completed her makeup except for the lipstick, with a hot curler still attached to her brightly dyed hair, Ryuji's mother - Yasuko, wearing a pink camisole and Ryuji's old middle-school jersey (track) pants and her huge breasts swaying wildly.

The innocent child-like face happily holding the chopsticks, looked like a young girl with her makeup, with beautifully painted rosy pink glossy nails, her hair flowing over her smooth collarbone, highlighting her feminine charms with a sweet scent that emits from Yasuko's skin more suitable for her real age and her evening work.

"properly eat the vegetables too, ok? and also the shiso"

"tempura shiso, I loooo~ve it! Ryu-chan too, I loooo~ve!"

At the narrow and low dining table, like peeking through a sheer cloth the colorful vegetables can be seen as well as Ryuji's wonderful tempura all lined up. In the miso soup, there is tofu, daikon (radish/turnip), vegetables; the steamed rice mixed with five spices; and today's side dish, pickled eggplants --- grown in secret in the school's gardens. As for the tempura sauce, lemon juice, or grated daikon, or anything to suit the personal taste.

half past 6 in the evening, Takasu family living room. Sitting around the low dining table were Ryuji, Yasuko, and Taiga, ready to have their usual dinner.

"bon appetit", they all said together, Yasuko reaches over for the prawn, Ryuji brings the miso soup to his mouth. Taiga's chopsticks hovers over the prawns, but why is she hesitating,

"Hey, move your chopsticks"

Ryuji scowled. But Taiga just grimaced, without any retort, and just like that stopped moving.

"......what is it?"

"......what's the matter? Taiga-chan?"

Even though she was being asked by both mother and son Taiga remains seated rigidly. "......" keeping her mouth shut. The usual Taiga would have taken even Ryuji's share of the mains together when she extended her chopsticks. Yasuko is concerned, and puts down her chopsticks,

”I see... I see..., sorry ＊ Ya-chan absolutely looo~ves Taiga-chan~ ＊"

"huh"

swoosh, and Taiga was hugged tightly. she kisses "tsup tsup tsuuuup". Being buried between those huge breasts Taiga couldn't make a sound, before long, her small hands pushed painfully with a pitter-patter sound

"I can't breathe! I can't breathe!"

"Aaaahh......"

at the time she was released, she gasps for air and simultaneously collapses onto the seat futon (zabuton). After a little while, not wanting Ryuji and Yasuko to worry about her, she slowly straightens her body.

"......no.., nothing. actually, I just a little bit......don't really feel like eating anything"

"You don't have any appetite!?"

"That is just so~"

"......even me, even when I'm slightly ill, i would still have it! ......this, take this. and this too"

Taiga passes a prawn towards Yasuko, another towards Ryuji, and the other one left, after being dipped in the tempura sauce, she gingerly brings to her own small mouth like trying out the taste.

"Don't be unreasonable (don't force yourself to eat), are you really okay?"

taking a bite, Taiga nods her head while sprinkling salt, adding more. pauses and continues eating it as it is.

"......don't worry. I can eat this. delicious"

also taking in a mouthful of white rice.

"you should probably take back the prawn? you should savor it since you're able to eat, you will see shrimps on our dining table only once a year~"

"it's ok, after eating the vegetables I'm already good"

after eating one prawn, Taiga's appetite seem to have improved, as she also drinks the miso soup. And so Ryuji was relieved,

"Shiso can be considered medicine. You should take more"

The platter of mint was turned so that it faced Taiga. Taiga nods, and takes one piece to her mouth immediately. She seems to like it, taking another piece.

In the end, Taiga also eats the other vegetable tempura, the pickled vegetables, the miso soup, and also some rice (this is a very rare situation, normally she can easily finish three bowls), for the time being we have finished eating.

Yasuko also felt relieved after seeing that, and heads out to work taking the Chanel bag that she always treasured--some disaster would occur, several hours later.

"......Ryuji......I......may be dying......"

Ryuji turns his head upon hearing this shocking statement, it was already after 10 in the evening.

As usual they were relaxing after eating and having a good time, folding a cushion in half and spreading it, the two of them were carelessly lying flat down on the tatami mat watching television. Neither of them did anything, they begin to fall asleep.

"......I'm dying......"

"wh......what?"

Noticing Taiga behind Ryuji, she seemed to have sprawled down awkwardly, somewhat like toppling sideways holding her stomach, her complexion turned very pale. Although Taiga has always been very fair-skinned, her skin tone now was a tinge of pale beige, she was very pale. Ryuji hurriedly gets up, crawling over causing Taiga's hair to scatter on the tatami with his knees.

"How is it!? Is it a stomach-ache!?"

"i-.. it hurts... a... lot...."

"do you need to go to the toilet? can you stand? are you going to throw up?!"

"toilet...... I don't think the pain is that bad......"

Wheezing and coughing, she vomited, Taiga softly shivers. Traces of cold sweat form on her damp forehead, it was quite cold.

"Is it your Stomach!?"

"I-..., I don't know...... it just hurts..... here"

Around the navel of the dress which has a repeating cotton lace pattern which expands softly, she strokes that area with her small hand. Ryuji realized clearly, this is quite serious.

"w-, we should go to the hospital!"

Inside the birdcage placed in a corner of the living room, a disfigured parrot called inko-chan also chimed "that's right!" while nodding with the whites of its eyes bulging.

"oh yes, ambulance......must call the ambulance!"

"i-, i-, isn't that a bit exaggerated....?"

"but you can't walk, right!? aren't you dying!?"

"Calling an ambulance just for a stomach-ache......don't......I-... I can cope......uuugh~......"

Taiga strains her voice, and twists her body to try to endure the pain. It can't be helped---Ryuji quickly opened the phonebook, verifying that the nearby university hospital have night time emergency facilities, dials the phone while taking his wallet and the health insurance card and putting them in his pocket.

"Oh! use my insurance card!"

The trembling becomes more apparent. The health insurance card is taken out and inserted into the slanting back pocket, carrying the light body of the weary Taiga who was lying down. Taiga was silent, like a ventriloquist's doll being carried in the arms of Ryuji, her face pressed against his shoulders,

"......nngh......nnggh......"

while enduring the pain she moans softly.

Impatiently locking the door with the housekey, Ryuji rushes out from the front door even though he was only wearing his sandals. Making loud "kang kang" noise that rang on the iron stairs as he ran down, carrying Taiga to the main street to catch a taxi,

"Sorry, there's someone sick here! Would you mind letting us go ahead!?"

Jumping out in front of an older office worker who had just stopped a taxi, he pleads. Under the light that shines on Ryuji's evil-looking sanpaku eyes, the older man felt threatened, and dropped his bag out of instinctive fear, and takes one step back,

"thank you very much!"

Ryuji interpreted that as a "Yes", and slides in the open taxi door. Informing the name of the university hospital and screaming "hurry, this person is sick!" to the driver, who adjusted the rearview mirror and nodded many times. Understanding the circumstance, made him realize it was not a car-jacking.

"Taiga, hang in there! we're almost there!"

Taiga cannot even sit properly, instead she could only lie prone on Ryuji's lap, even now trembling due to the pain.

So pitiful--no matter how she had verbally abused him, or the violent treatment he received, They were kindred who ate meals out of the same pot. Taiga is really a girl after all. Ryuji can see that she was patiently enduring the pain, trying not to cry out loud. And so he brushes her long hair gently that has become disheveled.

Just what on earth is going on? Is it food poisoning, appendicitis, or is it some other worse disease?

"......dead......"

"id-, idiot! stop saying you're dead or dying! saying such words will only make things worse!"

"......you're wrong......it's not me....that fellow......"

maybe he is dead.

While lying on Ryuji's knee, Taiga was babbling incoherently. Maybe it was playing dead, that fellow, that black tomcat, or maybe it really is dead. Then perhaps, this is its curse.

"wh~.., what? what do you mean?"

"......uhm, freshman's, female......final memento, those words......that thing......after death, that relic, that maybe....oh"

"that freshman's, uhm......are you talking about the incident this morning?"

It was when Ryuji was in the middle of harvesting the shiso and eggplants when Taiga encountered that incident in the school building with the freshman girl. Ryuji heard about this when they were on their way home.

"I..... stepped on it at that time, that notebook......because it was too ominous, i didn't say a word......that-, that thing, was......[Tomiie Kota's] property......"

Can it be? (No way), Ryuji instinctively stares around the ear of Taiga who's facing down. He knew Tomiie Kota. He is a close junior of Kitamura, a freshman in the student council, and is Taiga's so-called "black tomcat"--they say misfortune will follow when a black cat crosses one's path. In Taiga's case, it was Tomiie Kota in particular, who is the black cat that brought about this misfortune. Every time Tomiie Kota appears before Taiga, some unbelievable misfortune seem to happen to Taiga.

Her lunch sandwich would be trampled. The canned coffee would fly out of the machine and eventually slam onto her head. When cutting the tail of a fried horse mackerel, it gets stuck onto her forehead, this can also be attributed to him; when she was was walking from school, she would get hit by a dropped eraser; sometimes soya milk would be sprayed onto her face -- it's because he is Kitamura's junior, and simply for this one reason that he is able to still survive, if not because of this, Taiga would have already personally delivered this insolent underclassman to hell.

Ryuji also knows about this very well. Those encounters with Taiga were probably also miserable and unfortunate occurrences for him. But then,

"the-, the-, therefore, why the hell did this curse......"

"He's dead......that fellow, is dead......soul in that notebook......I, stepped on that......?"

Taiga's body continued shivering weakly. Her fingers grasping Ryuji's kneecaps through the trousers felt icy-cold,

"......it keeps following......that fellow's, bad luck, through his spirit.....ugh......"

Taiga continued to moan, the sound of her suffering echoing in the silent taxi.

＊　＊　＊

"For nighttime emergency medical diagnosis and treatment, it can be troublesome unless you telephone first, don't you think?"

......at last, we're here. carrying Taiga, who was trembling, to the reception counter who murmured for the first time:

"th~, that being said......i'm sorry. and so..., uhm..., can we get this medical examination started?"

"What was that?"

The woman in a business attire with the strange thick makeup was a bit unnerved in front of Ryuji's scary face, carrying Taiga carefully and looking up. Taiga seemed to be already at death's door, could not respond to the situation,

"It seems to be a stomachache. She was already feeling ill before the meal, and it seems to have become very bad a few minutes after eating!"

"What did she eat-?"

"Tempura!"

"......Tempura!?"

Ha!

and, i heard a snort that sounded like a nasal laugh -- hopefully it was just my imagination. The woman tosses a sheet of paper forward from the counter,

"here, please fill this-"

and even though being told that, his arm doesn't move but remained holding onto Taiga. Ryuji cuts the woman off, carefully lays Taiga down on the sofa of the lobby. even though Taiga's eyes were closed, she doesn't lose consciousness, gritting her teeth to endure the pain with an expression of anguish. The fluorescent light were turned off, only small electric lamps dimly illuminated the spacious lobby. There were no sign of any other patients, and voices echoed strangely.

"pl-, pl-, please lend me a pen"

after a cold glare, a pen was rolled across the counter with the "cara cara" sound echoing.

in any case; name and address (the house number of the building next to Ryuji's home should be correct, right?), symptom, I scribbled it hurriedly,

"er-, uh, is the insurance card good by tomorrow?"

"please wait over there on the sofa-"

his question wasn't answered either, and the paper wasn't looked at also, the woman just casually tossed it into an unknown box at the side. What kind of treatment is this? he wanted to ask, but it seemed better to just obey that woman's instructions and wait. Ryuji went back to Taiga who moaned, and sat down beside her, but somehow, had an inexplicable idea.

this place, it's no different from the jungle.

......isn't it? Should he take her to another place before it's too late? That woman at the reception counter is certainly not a doctor or a nurse, but her symptoms are very dire, it's probably better to find out her condition now. Glancing quietly at the suffering Taiga, however, luck seemed to change in that moment of hesitation.

"Aisaka-san, please!"

A voice calls from the examination room, and soon that woman approaches us pushing a wheelchair with a clattering sound.

"Please ride in this-"

Taiga opened her eyes slightly, and reflexively twists her body and tries to escape as if sensing something foreboding, the woman quickly reaches across and with Ryuji's help, grasps the child and places her onto the wheelchair. The woman than pushed the wheelchair efficiently into the examination room. Ryuji hastily pursues after them.

This is the patient-, the woman announced immediately, and the open door of the examination room started closing automatically.

gaaa! just as the doors were closing, he grabbed onto Taiga's leg and faltered. Ignoring both the wheezing Ryuji and the silent Taiga, the woman calmly opens the door,

"Please, go in!"

Without warning, she pushes the wheelchair in and lets it go,

"aiyee!"

Taiga's careening wheelchair was caught with the foot of a slipper by a young man in a white coat -- why is his head shaven, this doctor. He examines Taiga's leg while smiling amiably,

"What seems to be the problem-? ah, this leg? Is it painful, if that's the case I can surely heal it quickly."

"that was caused by banging on that door just now! It's stomachache!"

If Ryuji didn't immediately say anything, the doctor would probably only examine the leg and send them home after. Ah, abdominal pain? how much (pain)? and the doctor puts on the stethoscope to listen to the stomach of Taiga.

But Taiga's bulky cotton lace clothes had too much frills piled up to the point of death (also known as Furi Furi one-piece virtue), seeing this, the doctor shakes his head, as if he cannot understand where to open it.

"hah! I give up. lie down on the examination table for a while-, put your head here-, yes, yes, that's it"

the wheelchair's brakes weren't engaged, Taiga trembled as she endured the pain struggling while slowly transferring to the examination table. The doctor only reads the medical chart without noticing anything else. Ryuji being flustered, tries to lend a hand to Taiga, but,

"Ah, are you with her? her relative-?"

"eh? uhm... no, a friend......"

Suddenly being asked by that doctor, Ryuji turned his head around, in that instant, Taiga fell off the swiveling wheelchair that slipped. And she hit the hard floor with a dull thumping sound.

"Oh! Ta-, Taiga!"

"......uh......"

Clinging onto the wobbling consultation seat, Taiga stands up with a dazed look, quietly rubbing her forehead. The doctor than jokes,

"aha ha ha ha ha~, what are you doing!? is that where it hurts~!? what's the~"

the doctor seem to jokingly place the stethoscope on the forehead, until he noticed the evil eyes of Ryuji who stared in utter amazement at this unbelievable scene.

"......you-, your face, isn't it scary~! can you go away for a little while so as not to distract me!? It's really scaring me~!"

"eh......bu~, but......"

"it's ok, it's ok! just wait over there!"

He was chased off up to the doorway of the examination room almost totally pushed out. The curtain is closed, the view of Taiga passes out of sight. But how can he leave that seemingly useless doctor and Taiga alone together? he regretfully chews on his fingernails,

"......"

"......"

looking around, an elementary schoolboy was sitting in the corner of the examination room. he has asthmatic spasm but still raises and opens his mouth widely to inhale some steam, arms crossed with a "Nobody else is allowed to fiddle with this" posture while tightly hugging the machine. His eyes were glazed over like dead fish slowly losing freshness -- perhaps, it's not only due to the illness that he is fatigued.

It was absolutely a mistake to have come here, realizing this now.

"Aaargh!"

Taiga's tearful voice echoed. Just like the scream of a bear caught in a trap.

"It's alright, it's alright, I'm just drawing a little blood! Ah, failed again. ......tch! what the shit!. ......this time for sure......still nothing, tch! can't find the vein, wait a minute,"

"Aaaah, aaahh, aaaaaaahhh~!"

"I'm just looking for the vein......tch! No, this is no good! switching to the other arm, this is also useless, tch! tch! shit!"

The sounds echoing in the consultation room were scarier than anything in the world. As the terrifying voice of Taiga came to a halt, Ryuji was left standing petrified. The tongue-click noise continues, making him want to cover his ears, but the fact was Taiga was brought here by himself. He cannot avert his eyes from this scary responsibility......well, let's stop this already, have to tell him to stop this. And then have to get her out and go to another place.

With that determination he opens the curtain,

"Ha! I got it... I got it! with this it shouldn't hurts so much anymore, once we can examine the blood we should be able to determine if there was infection inside the stomach, you can rest assured from this blood check-!"

The syringe is full of Taiga's somewhat strange looking dark colored blood. The doctor smiles proudly after such a difficult ordeal,

"there, just wait a little bit! here, take this as an apology for the pain caused!"

Taking out a candy from the pocket of the white coat, unwrapping it and dropping it in the mouth of Taiga which remains half-open without moving. Taiga grabs Ryuji's hand suddenly, and coughs out the candy. The candy rolls a bit in Ryuji's hand before becoming stuck. ......that's understandable, but, on the other hand, Ryuji was feeling troubled. If a person comes to the hospital with a painful stomach, why would you give them candy......

after all this, we were told, we have to go back to the sofa of the waiting room again for another 20 minutes. Taiga plops herself down and occasionally groans, and continues to shiver slightly and rubs circles on her stomach desperately. The inner side of her left arm was quickly bruising, absorbent cotton was taped to the inner side of her right arm, a seemingly impossible amount of blood seeping into it. Her eyes glazed over lifelessly, and her complexion became terribly pasty.

"......Taiga. Hey......"

"......"

There was no response. Her voice doesn't come out anymore either. Her lips were parched dry and cracked, but maybe because she also bit on them to endure the pain, that's why it is bleeding a bit. The truth was, she surely looked worse now then before coming to this place.

It can't be helped, but the cause of the stomach pain must be discovered, and it must be treated,

"uhm, ahem~, I'm not really sure!"

from behind, incoherent voices conversed idly.

With a sinking feeling, Ryuji looks back at that doctor standing behind him. In his hand was an intravenous bag that he was going to hang onto a metal support .

"that blood we drew just now, it won't be able to help us determine the cause of the stomachache!"

"wo~, wo~, won't be able......"

"but it will help us to determine that there is no inflammation of the appendix. On the other hand, this may be something that we can't just treat at an emergency ward!"

Huh! feeling dismayed at this time in the face of the smiling doctor , while discreetly keeping Taiga behind him, Ryuji desperately questioned the doctor.

"if it's not intestinal, then, could it be some women's issue, for example gynecological problems......"

"If that's the case, that would not be considered a health emergency, unfortunately! If you really want to know what is wrong, please come back during regular hours to consult a general practitioner, oh yes, as this is a university hospital, there is no referral, so it can be quite expensive!"

"so~, somehow could it be catarrh or...... those things are......"

"That-is-why~, she did not have diarrhea, right!? nor did she she throw up, right!? even though you have come to the emergency room, we were still unable to treat it! There is no bleeding in her stomach, and there is no symptom that warrants treatment at an emergency ward! Is it food poisoning, there doesn't seem to be any such acute symptoms! Neither is it constipation! and it doesn't seem to be gas! anyway, the only thing noticeable is that she is in pain but cannot elaborate what is the pain, so...this!"

and why do you seem to be so happy, or is it merely the night shifts causing you to have high emotional tension, the doctor just pointed at the intravenous drip. Picking up the readied tube, and as soon as the cap of the needle was removed,

"This is pain-killer! Ah, this is good, a needle was left in a while ago just in case something like this might happen. This child, her blood vessels are quite difficult to find~"

The cotton on the inner right arm of Taiga was peeled off. Blood was gradually seeping out......the needle on the rubber-like mouth still remains stuck. Eehhh......but Ryuji takes a few steps back, not able to do anything. The doctor works in front of Ryuji, with great skill and dexterity, adjusts the rate of the intravenous drip,

"when the drip runs out, call me!"

"......he~, here, leave the IV drip here......? this, in the lobby?"

"there will probably be other patients, therefore we must keep the examination room free. Because sometimes serious injuries do arrive"

"......that sounds terrible......"

"like ruptured intestine"

not really caring about accounts about injuries to internal organs, and nonchalantly divulging such findings, the doctor finishes by turning back to the examination room. This university hospital certainly has a reputation as a very advanced lifesaving institution, it is one of Japan's leading hospitals. It's only logical that such serious cases would be sent here.

However, I do get it, and Ryuji incidentally also came to an unusual understanding. An excellent doctor will surely be assigned to more urgent lifesaving situations, this young doctor with seemingly less skills might have been left behind here. Oh my, although this is just the imaginings of a selfish layman, judging by the suitability of that unnecessary examination~

"Taiga!?"

looking over suddenly, Ryuji shouted shrilly. Rashes were appearing all over the entire body of Taiga to which the painkiller was administered, especially from the inner arm where the needle of the IV drip is stuck. The hives can be seen spreading quickly, connecting together forming large masses of rashes,

"Oh, oh, OH......EMERGENCY! TAIGA! someone help!"

"......oou~, aaaargh......"

"Someone please come and help!"

Mouth gaping wide and wailing beside Ryuji, Taiga noticed the IV drip needle inserted in her arm for the first time.

"wh~, what~......can't breath.....whew~! this......wha~......ooow......whew~!"

"Taiga, hang in there! This is the drug to stop the pain!"

"......tch, stop... pain..., drug......I......"

"wheez wheez" sounds like from a high-pitched whistle were emanating from the throat of Taiga. Her body was twisted in pain. Her airway narrowed. The doctor and several nurses hurries over, looking at Taiga's face, and at that instant "bong!" and the eyelid can be seen swelling up,

"Oh, this is bad"

I, am allergic to pain-killers.

--these few words were squeaked out within Taiga's scant breath with great difficulty. Well then, is this an allergic reaction? Doctor, why didn't you first inquire about allergies? And, why was the intravenous drip administered without obtaining the patient's consent?

But Ryuji did not know yet. Of course Taiga did not know either. Neither did the nurses nor the doctor know. Already on the floor above, on this hospital's second floor, a new misery......no, the curse of the black cat had already begun to carve its way to bring more terror for Taiga.

Second floor, at the public telephone at the nurse's station.

A high school freshman who is hospitalized with bone fractures in many places all over his body, grasping several 10 yen coins in his hand, paces back and forth unceasingly in front of the nurse's station since a little while ago.

what is it, Tomiie-kun. want to telephone your girlfriend? don't have a telephone card?

what is it, what is it, you do have a girlfriend!?

eh-what kind of person is she? girlie gal? clean and innocent? come on, come on, unless you call her quickly the grandma of ward 402 will be on the phone again for a long time.

We won't listen in, we're not listening in! see, we are not straining up our ears to eavesdrop.

go ahead, go ahead, everyone encouraged~!

he was extremely hesitant and awkward but in the end, only calls home after all, and asks for some change of pants, and quickly leaves the nurses' station afterwards. He was not yet mature enough to be able to call the girl he likes in front of those working elder sisters.

At this time, the remaining 10 yen coin that was tightly clasped was accidentally dropped. The coin went "clink clank" as it bounds and roll down the stairs, it was impossible to pick up as it rolled down and ended on the first floor before you could say "ah". Although it's only a 10 yen coin, money is still money, so he runs after it in a hurry, running all the way down to the lobby on the first floor. The rolling coin made a "korokoro" sound was still being chased, began to roll on to a deserted corridor.

As she was placed on the stretcher, Taiga was already quickly losing consciousness. She knew that she was having a lengthy bout of severe allergy. The mucous membrane of her eyes, inside of her mouth and trachea swells up more and more, and becomes hot and itchy, and causes her to shiver. The abdominal pain becomes more severe, and a dark fog seemed to start to drift in front of her vision gradually.

Shouldn't Ryuji be by her side? desperately twisting her neck, and so Taiga saw that thing.

The moving stretcher was heading towards a T-shaped corridor.

from the left side onto the right, whoa, and it ran right through.

A death flag -- these words came to Taiga's mind. Because of that fellow, that fellow probably resembles that black tomcat who should already be dead.

"Wha~!?"

The first to cry out was a nurse. "kachink", suddenly something small and hard got caught in between one of the wheels of the speeding stretcher. The wheel on one side of the stretcher stopped causing the stretcher to spin 180 degrees on its axle, sandwiching the nurse onto the wall, while the doctor's foot was run over by the stretcher that kept going forward due the inclined floor, causing him to stumble. Then Ryuji stumbled over that dumpling-man and hits his jaw on the floor, and then Taiga, who was suffering from severe allergic reaction and stomachache, flew through the air at great force -- the sudden stop of the stretcher threw her violently onto the wall causing her to bounce off it, and then she lands her buttocks into the middle of the potted plants.

(~80%~)

Toradora!:Spin-Off Legend of the Black Catboy of Misfortune

2009-12-11T08:03:49Z

RonnieCorny: /* Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune */

===Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune===

"...... d- d- d-, did you see it?"

"It's no use, the trees over there are obstructing...... a little more to the left"

"......h- h- h-, how?"

"It's no good, that tree is obstructing it this time. ......ah, darn! It's quite frustrating! Can we cut it all down!?"

--I may do it.

Takasu Ryuji struggled as he crouched down silently in order to drop the hooligan off his shoulders. The hooligan got down on the ground violently with both feet.

"Damn!"

She swore at the whole world, unleashing her frustration, She tore off an innocent leaf of a shiso plant in the lush flower bed. The mint's scent drifted in the hellish heat of the noon of midsummer.

"Oh forget it, it's okay, that's a wrap. ......aaaah, even though I took the effort to come to school during summer vacation, I can't get one clear view of Kitamura-kun in his club activities. I am extremely unlucky......Hey, why are you ignoring me when I'm feeling down!?"

As Ryuji crouched down to pick some shiso leaves, the hooligan, known as Aisaka Taiga, kicked him right down and into the middle of the buttocks with the toe of her shoes.

"Ow...... that hurts, you dumbass!"

"You stupid idiot! You impudent dog!"

Whack! And he got slapped in the mouth this time, then Ryuji's fierce eyes shone as he shouted back at Taiga without backing off one bit.

"Hit me or whatever you want to do, but I, these shiso, you can't stop me from taking them! These mints are FREE! I'm free to take them! Do you understand!?"

"Tch! Waitaminit! Spit! Gross!"

"Shut up! It's free, I'm free to take it. besides, mint is my favorite! You should be happy to be able to enjoy these in the delicious salad noodles and pickled tuna covered rice every day! Incidentally, here, it was me who planted the mint! On dry days I'm also the one who waters them, sending the pests to the afterlife was also me! Therefore I have every right to harvest these mints!"

"......"

"Nevermind that! Help me pick them if you understand! Ah... It's good that I remembered, last time I finished picking them all, I wasn't sure how soon they would grow again. So careless, so careless, to almost forget. And I don't usually come here when summer vacation begins...... but then, the shiso plants are strong, look at this lush growth!"

Happily-- totally forgetting the original purpose for coming to school, Ryuji became preoccupied with the shiso plants. Casually keeping one step apart, he didn't notice Taiga's eyes glaring at him.

Even with the violent like a wild carnivorous animal known as "palmtop tiger", in the face of the golden sun in the hot day, concentrating on the shiso harvesting, any thought of running by Ryuji was not to be found anymore. Instead Ryuji went "he he", laughing happily, occasionally smelling the fragrance of the crop going "mmm..." while narrowing his eyes and thinking, I wouldn't mind putting some of these shiso into a sachet for my wallet and mobile phone. Whether it was the demonic eyes or the scary features of the face, he looked like a hopeless addict picking some illegal weed that was secretly cultivated in the Hokkaido region., although he was just enjoying the feeling of having a miniature agricultural life with his small personal herb garden.

"Ah, that's right, Taiga!"

"......"

A smug smile and the usual cold silence was all he got. But Ryuji crawls over to Taiga on his knees from the mint plants without minding,

"In the flower bed over there, I have also planted eggplants and cucumber. Say, don't you want to take a look!? The seedlings grew and flowered before the closing ceremonies! Though I attempted last year, it was tragically caught by the gardening club and removed...... But this year!"

"Don't want to"

"Why. ......Hey, why are you so unkind to me? What is that strange look you're giving me?(Why are you looking at me like that?)"

"You are becoming more and more detestable! I knew I should have come on my own after all."

"Why is that!?"

In the first place, the reason why we came to school in the middle of summer vacation was to get the needed textbook which Taiga left in the locker. Although he wasn't asked particularly, but Ryuji, who was bored with a lot of free time, decided to accompany her.

As they passed through the school gate, they found the baseball club practicing. Taiga's crush, Kitamura, was there. Since the closing ceremony, Taiga has not seen Kitamura. Kitamura was of course busy with club activities and can be seen from a distance, so she would not like him to see her spying on him.

And so Ryuji and Taiga hid down beside the flowerbed at the side of the school building where the flowers grew thick, nestled between the sunflowers which swayed whenever they peeked. However, the huge weeds of the mid-summer was larger than the petite body of Taiga and blocked her view. So he let Taiga sit on his shoulder. For Taiga's sake, he showed some kindness. And then,

"You said I'm detestable, how am I detestable?!"

"There are lots including......such as your face, or such as your sweaty back. You, your entire shirt is drenched. Ah, that reminds me......"

Taiga puts her hand inside her own skirt, thinking about the close contact between her buttocks and Ryuji's shoulders earlier. Her eyes widened in shock, her small face twisting with disgust.

"Uh......ugh! My ass is wet with the sweat from your back! eeew! eeew!"

She stuck out her tongue and pretended to throw up. No matter how good-natured Ryuji is, it still felt insulting.

"Oh, don't you think it's also possible that my back is getting wet from the sweat of your butt as well!?"

"Not a chance!"

Instant denial, cutting off further talks Taiga turns around going, yuck! yuck! and starts to kick at the dirt with her foot like a cat after it uses a toilet. Sweat pours from Ryuji's skin, leaving spots on the ground.

"Ow! Ow! ......cough! Stop that you idiot! I was even kind enough to carry you on my shoulders!?"

"I'm now regretting that! What a disgusting sweaty dog! go away! get lost!"

"I will be using these shiso in tonight's tempura for our dinner, how can you say such a thing!? May lightning strike you down!"

"Ha! Lightning strikes can kill the germs! Whatever, I'm going to hurry and get that thing I forgot (textbook in the locker), as for you, you can stay here and bake in the heat!"

Like more lightning strikes hurting Ryuji's feelings further, Taiga's long hair fluttered as she turned towards the school building and ran off. Ryuji quietly rubs his sweat-soaked back, while shaking off the dirt on his hair like a dog, and biting his lip thinking. I knew it, she really is a terrible person.

--that witch, definitely, will have a horrible end.

Brushing her light colored hair with a tinge of gray, Taiga walked the deserted corridor towards the classroom on her own. Her exquisite profile as refined as delicate etched glass made her look like a French doll.

If she doesn't opens her mouth, rather, if not for "that" personality of hers, everyone would see Taiga as a very beautiful young lady. Her large eyes with light-colored pupils move relaxedly, looking like a kitten as it opens its mouth, the palmtop tiger lets out a lovely yawn. At times when no one is looking, Taiga does have a most captivating face.

However, the calm arch of Taiga's eyebrows suddenly raised steeply. From the other side of the corner, loud footsteps can be heard. It seems to be coming towards this place.

Disliking such a noisy person -- ignoring her own shortcomings, Taiga pouts with irritation at once. At this rate they may collide at the corner.

......or maybe not.

She did not try to change the route to an empty path nearby, this girl is called "the palmtop tiger" for a reason . Taiga absolutely walks where she wants to walk. Even if the other person is a guy from the sumo club or even if the other person is a teacher, she did not intend to change her way. She is walking properly, the other person is breaking the rules running, there is no reason to give way.

Resolutely sticking out her elbow sharply in out, Taiga lowered her head, continuing to plunge towards the prey which approached quickly. And sure enough, the moment she reached the corner,

"Ow... oh!"

"There it is...... kiyaaaah!"

Crash, the elbow connected bluntly. The other party who was knocked over screams loudly and lands on their butt, sitting in the hall due to the force of momentum. Standing firmly like a rock, before the eyes of the unperturbed Taiga, the schoolgirl's rather short skirt opened and was exposed fully. Both her pure white thighs and the seams of her light blue underpants were 100% exposed.

"......ah ah ah uuunggh~!"

Noticing the embarrassing position, she hurriedly sat down in the hall panicking and cried out again, pulling down on the hem of her skirt. And expressing "ouch" while pressing down her considerable chest that is best seen from the above. But by pressing down too strongly, did she know that it further enhanced the rounded shape to become clearly visible?

For some unknown reason (without any explanation), an even deeper cruelty and malevolence appeared in Taiga's eyes, looking down at this figure.

"......You, pay attention"

"Ah, s.. s... sor......"

Realizing that her panties had been exposed to just another girl, she lifted her eyes in that instant with a tinge of relief. However, with a blink of an eye, she realized that it was "the palmtop tiger" that stood arrogantly in front of her.

"......te... te... te..., teno...... eeek!"

Her round cheeks lost all color of blood in that instant.

Between Taiga's eyebrows, furrows looking like sawblades appeared.

Not even apologizing for knocking into me. Instead acting frightened like a victim. I hate this kind of person the most. Incidentally, I also hate those irresponsibly big breasts. ......without stating any apparent reason.

”......can't you even say "I'm sorry"? or is it, in your world, the "te... te... te..., teno..." acts as a form of apology? eh? what a barbarian!"

"o... o... o... urk!" (TL comment:the girl is trying to say "sorry")

"You're still not apologizing!"

To quickly settle this simple issue. Facing the frightened girl, Taiga ruthlessly stepped forward. Whether the other party is a guy or a girl makes no difference, Taiga's hostility to either was easily aroused. But at this moment, it felt like her foot was stepping on something.

"......?"

The girl who collided dropped her notebook, and it was under Taiga's foot. She notices it, and grimaced,

"Aaah...... Kota-kun's notebook...... the only symbol of our love......"

she cried out in despair. Tch, and Taiga clicked her tongue while, with some emphasis, picking it up with her hands, and playing with it in her hand without returning it,

"You're really good at acting as the victim......since having something so important stepped would make you cry, then you shouldn't have dropped it in the first place......."

Glaring through her glittering and brutal eyes, sizing up the girl from head to toe. Her nasal breath was rough with excitement going "ngggh nggggh", and blood rushes throughout fueling the serious malicious intent emanating from her body. "or-, or-, sor-", the female freshman cries tearfully, seemingly frozen in that spot.

a cruel smile twisted on the rosy lips of Taiga -- now then, let's see what we can do to this big-breasted girl with audacious panties that are fully exposed.

"What is it, Sakura?"

From the other side of the corridor, a voice echoed coldly

"sis-, sister!”

the big breated girl who had her panties exposed stands up and runs away, hiding her body like a rabbit behind the girl who appeared. Taiga recognized that girl,

"......it's here......"

muttering with very low voice. From her entire small body, the scent of danger from a 1 ton tiger emanates. All reason seem to disappear from her eyes -- Taiga hates this person the most.

"What have we here. ......aah, Aisaka Taiga. You are Kitamura's friend, I believe. I,"

"......think"

The girl with waist-length flowing black hair, was cold and spoke rudely like a man, which did not match her good looks. Taiga knew her. It was the president of the student council.

The student council president work with Kitamura everyday, and often as cleaning volunteers, they walk alongside together, and Kitamura would smile happily without a word -- Taiga was bitterly jealous of that girl.

"You recognize me? ......well then, why? why are you bullying my younger sister? Can you give me a good explanation"

calmly, without showing even a trace of fear, with an indulgent smile, the obnoxious student council president asks Taiga.

"......your younger sister?"

"Ah, this is my younger sister, Kanou Sakura, a freshman. ......bullying an underclassman girl, as expected of the Palmtop Tiger, aren't we attacking an easy prey?"

The big breasted panties girl hide behind the president of the student council, her body trembled going "pu ru pu ru". Taiga points at her without hesitation,

"Hey, as the elder sister, you should be ashamed of that exhibitionist. Your younger sister was running in this corridor, and crashed into the blameless me, rather than apologizing to me she spouts some crazy words and crying as if I were the one at fault, and now hides behind you"

"Hey. ......Sakura. Is this true?"

The big breasted panties girl was startled, she grimaced, and then looked up at her elder sister gasping,

"mo... mo... more or less.... !"

as soon as she nodded, the top of her head was struck! Even Taiga felt a little sympathy seeing that merciless karate chop. With some uncertain steps, her back was pushed down in front of Taiga,

"Now, you've made me look bad! You should properly apologize! How long are you going to hide behind me!"

having been yelled at with such a resounding voice. Tears formed at the corners of her eyes as she cowered down and looked up hesitantly,

"s.. s.. s-sorry...... I'm very sorry......Aisaka-senpai......"

In front of Taiga she bowed down deeply. "Keh", and Taiga snorted through her nose losing some of her fury, brushing her hair up and decided to forgive her this time, she starts to turn away.

But,

"uhm... uhm.... no..., notebook...."

"......huh!?"

at the sound of the soft voice, Taiga turns back again and her eyes filled with murderous intent. Although the big breasted panties girl shivered with fright, she didn't hide behind her elder sister again, even though both her legs were shaking, she desperately reaches her hand out.

"uhm, uhm, the notebook......? Please return it! It's not mine! i... it's from someone important, it's our only connection! i.. i... i'll do anything~!"

however that desperation, strikes at Taiga's heart......no, it lit an inherent fire of fury.

"SH... SH.. SHUT UP! You, to what degree do you want to falsely accuse me!? I just forgot about giving this to you! You think I would want something like this!?"

"Not!"

Taking the notebook in her hands, Taiga violently throws the notebook towards the throat of the big breasted panties girl, hitting back like a butcher.

While trying to catch the notebook the big breasted panties girl fell down on her knees groaning painfully. "aaaah", hitting her elbow while the student council president looks on, Taiga turns around and starts to leave.

But just at that instant. Something jumped deliberately right into Taiga's sight.

On the cover of the notebook with the distinct 22.5 cm shoeprint in the hands of the big breasted pants girl, the owner's name was clearly written with a felt-tip pen. ------"1-A Tomiie Kota".

＊　＊　＊

”waaah~, today it's somewhat extravagant~! Ryu-chan, how much prawns are there?"

"3 pieces per person"

"yay~, yay~"

Having completed her makeup except for the lipstick, with a hot curler still attached to her brightly dyed hair, Ryuji's mother - Yasuko, wearing a pink camisole and Ryuji's old middle-school jersey (track) pants and her huge breasts swaying wildly.

The innocent child-like face happily holding the chopsticks, looked like a young girl with her makeup, with beautifully painted rosy pink glossy nails, her hair flowing over her smooth collarbone, highlighting her feminine charms with a sweet scent that emits from Yasuko's skin more suitable for her real age and her evening work.

"properly eat the vegetables too, ok? and also the shiso"

"tempura shiso, I loooo~ve it! Ryu-chan too, I loooo~ve!"

At the narrow and low dining table, like peeking through a sheer cloth the colorful vegetables can be seen as well as Ryuji's wonderful tempura all lined up. In the miso soup, there is tofu, daikon (radish/turnip), vegetables; the steamed rice mixed with five spices; and today's side dish, pickled eggplants --- grown in secret in the school's gardens. As for the tempura sauce, lemon juice, or grated daikon, or anything to suit the personal taste.

half past 6 in the evening, Takasu family living room. Sitting around the low dining table were Ryuji, Yasuko, and Taiga, ready to have their usual dinner.

"bon appetit", they all said together, Yasuko reaches over for the prawn, Ryuji brings the miso soup to his mouth. Taiga's chopsticks hovers over the prawns, but why is she hesitating,

"Hey, move your chopsticks"

Ryuji scowled. But Taiga just grimaced, without any retort, and just like that stopped moving.

"......what is it?"

"......what's the matter? Taiga-chan?"

Even though she was being asked by both mother and son Taiga remains seated rigidly. "......" keeping her mouth shut. The usual Taiga would have taken even Ryuji's share of the mains together when she extended her chopsticks. Yasuko is concerned, and puts down her chopsticks,

”I see... I see..., sorry ＊ Ya-chan absolutely looo~ves Taiga-chan~ ＊"

"huh"

swoosh, and Taiga was hugged tightly. she kisses "tsup tsup tsuuuup". Being buried between those huge breasts Taiga couldn't make a sound, before long, her small hands pushed painfully with a pitter-patter sound

"I can't breathe! I can't breathe!"

"Aaaahh......"

at the time she was released, she gasps for air and simultaneously collapses onto the seat futon (zabuton). After a little while, not wanting Ryuji and Yasuko to worry about her, she slowly straightens her body.

"......no.., nothing. actually, I just a little bit......don't really feel like eating anything"

"You don't have any appetite!?"

"That is just so~"

"......even me, even when I'm slightly ill, i would still have it! ......this, take this. and this too"

Taiga passes a prawn towards Yasuko, another towards Ryuji, and the other one left, after being dipped in the tempura sauce, she gingerly brings to her own small mouth like trying out the taste.

"Don't be unreasonable (don't force yourself to eat), are you really okay?"

taking a bite, Taiga nods her head while sprinkling salt, adding more. pauses and continues eating it as it is.

"......don't worry. I can eat this. delicious"

also taking in a mouthful of white rice.

"you should probably take back the prawn? you should savor it since you're able to eat, you will see shrimps on our dining table only once a year~"

"it's ok, after eating the vegetables I'm already good"

after eating one prawn, Taiga's appetite seem to have improved, as she also drinks the miso soup. And so Ryuji was relieved,

"Shiso can be considered medicine. You should take more"

The platter of mint was turned so that it faced Taiga. Taiga nods, and takes one piece to her mouth immediately. She seems to like it, taking another piece.

In the end, Taiga also eats the other vegetable tempura, the pickled vegetables, the miso soup, and also some rice (this is a very rare situation, normally she can easily finish three bowls), for the time being we have finished eating.

Yasuko also felt relieved after seeing that, and heads out to work taking the Chanel bag that she always treasured--some disaster would occur, several hours later.

"......Ryuji......I......may be dying......"

Ryuji turns his head upon hearing this shocking statement, it was already after 10 in the evening.

As usual they were relaxing after eating and having a good time, folding a cushion in half and spreading it, the two of them were carelessly lying flat down on the tatami mat watching television. Neither of them did anything, they begin to fall asleep.

"......I'm dying......"

"wh......what?"

Noticing Taiga behind Ryuji, she seemed to have sprawled down awkwardly, somewhat like toppling sideways holding her stomach, her complexion turned very pale. Although Taiga has always been very fair-skinned, her skin tone now was a tinge of pale beige, she was very pale. Ryuji hurriedly gets up, crawling over causing Taiga's hair to scatter on the tatami with his knees.

"How is it!? Is it a stomach-ache!?"

"i-.. it hurts... a... lot...."

"do you need to go to the toilet? can you stand? are you going to throw up?!"

"toilet...... I don't think the pain is that bad......"

Wheezing and coughing, she vomited, Taiga softly shivers. Traces of cold sweat form on her damp forehead, it was quite cold.

"Is it your Stomach!?"

"I-..., I don't know...... it just hurts..... here"

Around the navel of the dress which has a repeating cotton lace pattern which expands softly, she strokes that area with her small hand. Ryuji realized clearly, this is quite serious.

"w-, we should go to the hospital!"

Inside the birdcage placed in a corner of the living room, a disfigured parrot called inko-chan also chimed "that's right!" while nodding with the whites of its eyes bulging.

"oh yes, ambulance......must call the ambulance!"

"i-, i-, isn't that a bit exaggerated....?"

"but you can't walk, right!? aren't you dying!?"

"Calling an ambulance just for a stomach-ache......don't......I-... I can cope......uuugh~......"

Taiga strains her voice, and twists her body to try to endure the pain. It can't be helped---Ryuji quickly opened the phonebook, verifying that the nearby university hospital have night time emergency facilities, dials the phone while taking his wallet and the health insurance card and putting them in his pocket.

"Oh! use my insurance card!"

The trembling becomes more apparent. The health insurance card is taken out and inserted into the slanting back pocket, carrying the light body of the weary Taiga who was lying down. Taiga was silent, like a ventriloquist's doll being carried in the arms of Ryuji, her face pressed against his shoulders,

"......nngh......nnggh......"

while enduring the pain she moans softly.

Impatiently locking the door with the housekey, Ryuji rushes out from the front door even though he was only wearing his sandals. Making loud "kang kang" noise that rang on the iron stairs as he ran down, carrying Taiga to the main street to catch a taxi,

"Sorry, there's someone sick here! Would you mind letting us go ahead!?"

Jumping out in front of an older office worker who had just stopped a taxi, he pleads. Under the light that shines on Ryuji's evil-looking sanpaku eyes, the older man felt threatened, and dropped his bag out of instinctive fear, and takes one step back,

"thank you very much!"

Ryuji interpreted that as a "Yes", and slides in the open taxi door. Informing the name of the university hospital and screaming "hurry, this person is sick!" to the driver, who adjusted the rearview mirror and nodded many times. Understanding the circumstance, made him realize it was not a car-jacking.

"Taiga, hang in there! we're almost there!"

Taiga cannot even sit properly, instead she could only lie prone on Ryuji's lap, even now trembling due to the pain.

So pitiful--no matter how she had verbally abused him, or the violent treatment he received, They were kindred who ate meals out of the same pot. Taiga is really a girl after all. Ryuji can see that she was patiently enduring the pain, trying not to cry out loud. And so he brushes her long hair gently that has become disheveled.

Just what on earth is going on? Is it food poisoning, appendicitis, or is it some other worse disease?

"......dead......"

"id-, idiot! stop saying you're dead or dying! saying such words will only make things worse!"

"......you're wrong......it's not me....that fellow......"

maybe he is dead.

While lying on Ryuji's knee, Taiga was babbling incoherently. Maybe it was playing dead, that fellow, that black tomcat, or maybe it really is dead. Then perhaps, this is its curse.

"wh~.., what? what do you mean?"

"......uhm, freshman's, female......final memento, those words......that thing......after death, that relic, that maybe....oh"

"that freshman's, uhm......are you talking about the incident this morning?"

It was when Ryuji was in the middle of harvesting the shiso and eggplants when Taiga encountered that incident in the school building with the freshman girl. Ryuji heard about this when they were on their way home.

"I..... stepped on it at that time, that notebook......because it was too ominous, i didn't say a word......that-, that thing, was......[Tomiie Kota's] property......"

Can it be? (No way), Ryuji instinctively stares around the ear of Taiga who's facing down. He knew Tomiie Kota. He is a close junior of Kitamura, a freshman in the student council, and is Taiga's so-called "black tomcat"--they say misfortune will follow when a black cat crosses one's path. In Taiga's case, it was Tomiie Kota in particular, who is the black cat that brought about this misfortune. Every time Tomiie Kota appears before Taiga, some unbelievable misfortune seem to happen to Taiga.

Her lunch sandwich would be trampled. The canned coffee would fly out of the machine and eventually slam onto her head. When cutting the tail of a fried horse mackerel, it gets stuck onto her forehead, this can also be attributed to him; when she was was walking from school, she would get hit by a dropped eraser; sometimes soya milk would be sprayed onto her face -- it's because he is Kitamura's junior, and simply for this one reason that he is able to still survive, if not because of this, Taiga would have already personally delivered this insolent underclassman to hell.

Ryuji also knows about this very well. Those encounters with Taiga were probably also miserable and unfortunate occurrences for him. But then,

"the-, the-, therefore, why the hell did this curse......"

"He's dead......that fellow, is dead......soul in that notebook......I, stepped on that......?"

Taiga's body continued shivering weakly. Her fingers grasping Ryuji's kneecaps through the trousers felt icy-cold,

"......it keeps following......that fellow's, bad luck, through his spirit.....ugh......"

Taiga continued to moan, the sound of her suffering echoing in the silent taxi.

＊　＊　＊

"For nighttime emergency medical diagnosis and treatment, it can be troublesome unless you telephone first, don't you think?"

......at last, we're here. carrying Taiga, who was trembling, to the reception counter who murmured for the first time:

"th~, that being said......i'm sorry. and so..., uhm..., can we get this medical examination started?"

"What was that?"

The woman in a business attire with the strange thick makeup was a bit unnerved in front of Ryuji's scary face, carrying Taiga carefully and looking up. Taiga seemed to be already at death's door, could not respond to the situation,

"It seems to be a stomachache. She was already feeling ill before the meal, and it seems to have become very bad a few minutes after eating!"

"What did she eat-?"

"Tempura!"

"......Tempura!?"

Ha!

and, i heard a snort that sounded like a nasal laugh -- hopefully it was just my imagination. The woman tosses a sheet of paper forward from the counter,

"here, please fill this-"

and even though being told that, his arm doesn't move but remained holding onto Taiga. Ryuji cuts the woman off, carefully lays Taiga down on the sofa of the lobby. even though Taiga's eyes were closed, she doesn't lose consciousness, gritting her teeth to endure the pain with an expression of anguish. The fluorescent light were turned off, only small electric lamps dimly illuminated the spacious lobby. There were no sign of any other patients, and voices echoed strangely.

"pl-, pl-, please lend me a pen"

after a cold glare, a pen was rolled across the counter with the "cara cara" sound echoing.

in any case; name and address (the house number of the building next to Ryuji's home should be correct, right?), symptom, I scribbled it hurriedly,

"er-, uh, is the insurance card good by tomorrow?"

"please wait over there on the sofa-"

his question wasn't answered either, and the paper wasn't looked at also, the woman just casually tossed it into an unknown box at the side. What kind of treatment is this? he wanted to ask, but it seemed better to just obey that woman's instructions and wait. Ryuji went back to Taiga who moaned, and sat down beside her, but somehow, had an inexplicable idea.

this place, it's no different from the jungle.

......isn't it? Should he take her to another place before it's too late? That woman at the reception counter is certainly not a doctor or a nurse, but her symptoms are very dire, it's probably better to find out her condition now. Glancing quietly at the suffering Taiga, however, luck seemed to change in that moment of hesitation.

"Aisaka-san, please!"

A voice calls from the examination room, and soon that woman approaches us pushing a wheelchair with a clattering sound.

"Please ride in this-"

Taiga opened her eyes slightly, and reflexively twists her body and tries to escape as if sensing something foreboding, the woman quickly reaches across and with Ryuji's help, grasps the child and places her onto the wheelchair. The woman than pushed the wheelchair efficiently into the examination room. Ryuji hastily pursues after them.

This is the patient-, the woman announced immediately, and the open door of the examination room started closing automatically.

gaaa! just as the doors were closing, he grabbed onto Taiga's leg and faltered. Ignoring both the wheezing Ryuji and the silent Taiga, the woman calmly opens the door,

"Please, go in!"

Without warning, she pushes the wheelchair in and lets it go,

"aiyee!"

Taiga's careening wheelchair was caught with the foot of a slipper by a young man in a white coat -- why is his head shaven, this doctor. He examines Taiga's leg while smiling amiably,

"What seems to be the problem-? ah, this leg? Is it painful, if that's the case I can surely heal it quickly."

"that was caused by banging on that door just now! It's stomachache!"

If Ryuji didn't immediately say anything, the doctor would probably only examine the leg and send them home after. Ah, abdominal pain? how much (pain)? and the doctor puts on the stethoscope to listen to the stomach of Taiga.

But Taiga's bulky cotton lace clothes had too much frills piled up to the point of death (also known as Furi Furi one-piece virtue), seeing this, the doctor shakes his head, as if he cannot understand where to open it.

"hah! I give up. lie down on the examination table for a while-, put your head here-, yes, yes, that's it"

the wheelchair's brakes weren't engaged, Taiga trembled as she endured the pain struggling while slowly transferring to the examination table. The doctor only reads the medical chart without noticing anything else. Ryuji being flustered, tries to lend a hand to Taiga, but,

"Ah, are you with her? her relative-?"

"eh? uhm... no, a friend......"

Suddenly being asked by that doctor, Ryuji turned his head around, in that instant, Taiga fell off the swiveling wheelchair that slipped. And she hit the hard floor with a dull thumping sound.

"Oh! Ta-, Taiga!"

"......uh......"

Clinging onto the wobbling consultation seat, Taiga stands up with a dazed look, quietly rubbing her forehead. The doctor than jokes,

"aha ha ha ha ha~, what are you doing!? is that where it hurts~!? what's the~"

the doctor seem to jokingly place the stethoscope on the forehead, until he noticed the evil eyes of Ryuji who stared in utter amazement at this unbelievable scene.

"......you-, your face, isn't it scary~! can you go away for a little while so as not to distract me!? It's really scaring me~!"

"eh......bu~, but......"

"it's ok, it's ok! just wait over there!"

He was chased off up to the doorway of the examination room almost totally pushed out. The curtain is closed, the view of Taiga passes out of sight. But how can he leave that seemingly useless doctor and Taiga alone together? he regretfully chews on his fingernails,

"......"

"......"

looking around, an elementary schoolboy was sitting in the corner of the examination room. he has asthmatic spasm but still raises and opens his mouth widely to inhale some steam, arms crossed with a "Nobody else is allowed to fiddle with this" posture while tightly hugging the machine. His eyes were glazed over like dead fish slowly losing freshness -- perhaps, it's not only due to the illness that he is fatigued.

It was absolutely a mistake to have come here, realizing this now.

"Aaargh!"

Taiga's tearful voice echoed. Just like the scream of a bear caught in a trap.

"It's alright, it's alright, I'm just drawing a little blood! Ah, failed again. ......tch! what the shit!. ......this time for sure......still nothing, tch! can't find the vein, wait a minute,"

"Aaaah, aaahh, aaaaaaahhh~!"

"I'm just looking for the vein......tch! No, this is no good! switching to the other arm, this is also useless, tch! tch! shit!"

The sounds echoing in the consultation room were scarier than anything in the world. As the terrifying voice of Taiga came to a halt, Ryuji was left standing petrified. The tongue-click noise continues, making him want to cover his ears, but the fact was Taiga was brought here by himself. He cannot avert his eyes from this scary responsibility......well, let's stop this already, have to tell him to stop this. And then have to get her out and go to another place.

With that determination he opens the curtain,

"Ha! I got it... I got it! with this it shouldn't hurts so much anymore, once we can examine the blood we should be able to determine if there was infection inside the stomach, you can rest assured from this blood check-!"

The syringe is full of Taiga's somewhat strange looking dark colored blood. The doctor smiles proudly after such a difficult ordeal,

"there, just wait a little bit! here, take this as an apology for the pain caused!"

Taking out a candy from the pocket of the white coat, unwrapping it and dropping it in the mouth of Taiga which remains half-open without moving. Taiga grabs Ryuji's hand suddenly, and coughs out the candy. The candy rolls a bit in Ryuji's hand before becoming stuck. ......that's understandable, but, on the other hand, Ryuji was feeling troubled. If a person comes to the hospital with a painful stomach, why would you give them candy......

after all this, we were told, we have to go back to the sofa of the waiting room again for another 20 minutes. Taiga plops herself down and occasionally groans, and continues to shiver slightly and rubs circles on her stomach desperately. The inner side of her left arm was quickly bruising, absorbent cotton was taped to the inner side of her right arm, a seemingly impossible amount of blood seeping into it. Her eyes glazed over lifelessly, and her complexion became terribly pasty.

"......Taiga. Hey......"

"......"

There was no response. Her voice doesn't come out anymore either. Her lips were parched dry and cracked, but maybe because she also bit on them to endure the pain, that's why it is bleeding a bit. The truth was, she surely looked worse now then before coming to this place.

It can't be helped, but the cause of the stomach pain must be discovered, and it must be treated,

"uhm, ahem~, I'm not really sure!"

from behind, incoherent voices conversed idly.

With a sinking feeling, Ryuji looks back at that doctor standing behind him. In his hand was an intravenous bag that he was going to hang onto a metal support .

"that blood we drew just now, it won't be able to help us determine the cause of the stomachache!"

"wo~, wo~, won't be able......"

"but it will help us to determine that there is no inflammation of the appendix. On the other hand, this may be something that we can't just treat at an emergency ward!"

Huh! feeling dismayed at this time in the face of the smiling doctor , while discreetly keeping Taiga behind him, Ryuji desperately questioned the doctor.

"if it's not intestinal, then, could it be some women's issue, for example gynecological problems......"

"If that's the case, that would not be considered a health emergency, unfortunately! If you really want to know what is wrong, please come back during regular hours to consult a general practitioner, oh yes, as this is a university hospital, there is no referral, so it can be quite expensive!"

"so~, somehow could it be catarrh or...... those things are......"

"That-is-why~, she did not have diarrhea, right!? nor did she she throw up, right!? even though you have come to the emergency room, we were still unable to treat it! There is no bleeding in her stomach, and there is no symptom that warrants treatment at an emergency ward! Is it food poisoning, there doesn't seem to be any such acute symptoms! Neither is it constipation! and it doesn't seem to be gas! anyway, the only thing noticeable is that she is in pain but cannot elaborate what is the pain, so...this!"

and why do you seem to be so happy, or is it merely the night shifts causing you to have high emotional tension, the doctor just pointed at the intravenous drip. Picking up the readied tube, and as soon as the cap of the needle was removed,

"This is pain-killer! Ah, this is good, a needle was left in a while ago just in case something like this might happen. This child, her blood vessels are quite difficult to find~"

The cotton on the inner right arm of Taiga was peeled off. Blood was gradually seeping out......the needle on the rubber-like mouth still remains stuck. Eehhh......but Ryuji takes a few steps back, not able to do anything. The doctor works in front of Ryuji, with great skill and dexterity, adjusts the rate of the intravenous drip,

"when the drip runs out, call me!"

"......he~, here, leave the IV drip here......? this, in the lobby?"

"there will probably be other patients, therefore we must keep the examination room free. Because sometimes serious injuries do arrive"

"......that sounds terrible......"

"like ruptured intestine"

not really caring about accounts about injuries to internal organs, and nonchalantly divulging such findings, the doctor finishes by turning back to the examination room. This university hospital certainly has a reputation as a very advanced lifesaving institution, it is one of Japan's leading hospitals. It's only logical that such serious cases would be sent here.

However, I do get it, and Ryuji incidentally also came to an unusual understanding. An excellent doctor will surely be assigned to more urgent lifesaving situations, this young doctor with seemingly less skills might have been left behind here. Oh my, although this is just the imaginings of a selfish layman, judging by the suitability of that unnecessary examination~

"Taiga!?"

looking over suddenly, Ryuji shouted shrilly. Rashes were appearing all over the entire body of Taiga to which the painkiller was administered, especially from the inner arm where the needle of the IV drip is stuck. The hives can be seen spreading quickly, connecting together forming large masses of rashes,

"Oh, oh, OH......EMERGENCY! TAIGA! someone help!"

"......oou~, aaaargh......"

"Someone please come and help!"

Mouth gaping wide and wailing beside Ryuji, Taiga noticed the IV drip needle inserted in her arm for the first time.

"wh~, what~......can't breath.....whew~! this......wha~......ooow......whew~!"

"Taiga, hang in there! This is the drug to stop the pain!"

"......tch, stop... pain..., drug......I......"

"wheez wheez" sounds like from a high-pitched whistle were emanating from the throat of Taiga. Her body was twisted in pain. Her airway narrowed. The doctor and several nurses hurries over, looking at Taiga's face, and at that instant "bong!" and the eyelid can be seen swelling up,

"Oh, this is bad"

I, am allergic to pain-killers.

--these few words were squeaked out within Taiga's scant breath with great difficulty. Well then, is this an allergic reaction? Doctor, why didn't you first inquire about allergies? And, why was the intravenous drip administered without obtaining the patient's consent?

But Ryuji did not know yet. Of course Taiga did not know either. Neither did the nurses nor the doctor know. Already on the floor above, on this hospital's second floor, a new misery......no, the curse of the black cat had already begun to carve its way to bring more terror for Taiga.

Second floor, at the public telephone at the nurse's station.

A high school freshman who is hospitalized with bone fractures in many places all over his body, grasping several 10 yen coins in his hand, paces back and forth unceasingly in front of the nurse's station since a little while ago.

what is it, Tomiie-kun. want to telephone your girlfriend? don't have a telephone card?

what is it, what is it, you do have a girlfriend!?

eh-what kind of person is she? girlie gal? clean and innocent? come on, come on, unless you call her quickly the grandma of ward 402 will be on the phone again for a long time.

We won't listen in, we're not listening in! see, we are not straining up our ears to eavesdrop.

go ahead, go ahead, everyone encouraged~!

he was extremely hesitant and awkward but in the end, only calls home after all, and asks for some change of pants, and quickly leaves the nurses' station afterwards. He was not yet mature enough to be able to call the girl he likes in front of those working elder sisters.

At this time, the remaining 10 yen coin that was tightly clasped was accidentally dropped. The coin went "clink clank" as it bounds and roll down the stairs, it was impossible to pick up as it rolled down and ended on the first floor before you could say "ah". Although it's only a 10 yen coin, money is still money, so he runs after it in a hurry, running all the way down to the lobby on the first floor. The rolling coin made a "korokoro" sound was still being chased, began to roll on to a deserted corridor.

As she was placed on the stretcher, Taiga was already quickly losing consciousness. She knew that she was having a lengthy bout of severe allergy. The mucous membrane of her eyes, inside of her mouth and trachea swells up more and more, and becomes hot and itchy, and causes her to shiver. The abdominal pain becomes more severe, and a dark fog seemed to start to drift in front of her vision gradually.

Shouldn't Ryuji be by her side? desperately twisting her neck, and so Taiga saw that thing.

The moving stretcher was heading towards a T-shaped corridor.

from the left side onto the right, whoa, and it ran right through.

A death flag -- these words came to Taiga's mind. Because of that fellow, that fellow probably resembles that black tomcat who should already be dead.

"Wha~!?"

The first to cry out was a nurse. "kachink", suddenly something small and hard got caught in between one of the wheels of the speeding stretcher. The wheel on one side of the stretcher stopped causing the stretcher to spin 180 degrees on its axle, sandwiching the nurse onto the wall, while the doctor's foot was run over by the stretcher that kept going forward due the inclined floor, causing him to stumble. Then Ryuji stumbled over the dumpling that dropped from that person's jaw, and the Taiga, who was suffering from severe allergic reaction and stomachache, flew through the air at great force -- the sudden stop of the stretcher threw her violently onto the wall causing her to bounce off it, and then she lands her buttocks into the middle of the potted plants.

(~80%~)

Toradora!:Spin-Off Legend of the Black Catboy of Misfortune

2009-12-11T00:45:02Z

RonnieCorny: /* Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune */

Toradora!:Spin-Off Legend of the Black Catboy of Misfortune

2009-12-10T10:40:35Z

RonnieCorny: /* Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune */

===Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune===

"...... d- d- d-, did you see it?"

"It's no use, the trees over there are obstructing...... a little more to the left"

"......h- h- h-, how?"

"It's no good, that tree is obstructing it this time. ......ah, darn! It's quite frustrating! Can we cut it all down!?"

--I may do it.

Takasu Ryuji struggled as he crouched down silently in order to drop the hooligan off his shoulders. The hooligan got down on the ground violently with both feet.

"Damn!"

He swore at the whole world, unleashing his frustration, He tore off an innocent leaf of a shiso plant in the lush flower bed. The mint's scent drifted in the hellish heat of the noon of midsummer.

"Oh forget it, it's okay, that's a wrap. ......aaaah, even though I took the effort to come to school during summer vacation, I can't get one clear view of Kitamura-kun in his club activities. I am extremely unlucky......Hey, why are you ignoring me when I'm feeling down!?"

As Ryuji crouched down to pick some shiso leaves, the hooligan, known as Aisaka Taiga, kicked him right down and into the middle of the buttocks with the toe of her shoes.

"Ow...... that hurts, you dumbass!"

"You stupid idiot! You impudent dog!"

Whack! And he got slapped in the mouth this time, then Ryuji's fierce eyes shone as he shouted back at Taiga without backing off one bit.

"Hit me or whatever you want to do, but I, these shiso, you can't stop me from taking them! These mints are FREE! I'm free to take them! Do you understand!?"

"Tch! Waitaminit! Spit! Gross!"

"Shut up! It's free, I'm free to take it. besides, mint is my favorite! You should be happy to be able to enjoy these in the delicious salad noodles and pickled tuna covered rice every day! Incidentally, here, it was me who planted the mint! On dry days I'm also the one who waters them, sending the pests to the afterlife was also me! Therefore I have every right to harvest these mints!"

"......"

"Nevermind that! Help me pick them if you understand! Ah... It's good that I remembered, last time I finished picking them all, I wasn't sure how soon they would grow again. So careless, so careless, to almost forget. And I don't usually come here when summer vacation begins...... but then, the shiso plants are strong, look at this lush growth!"

Happily-- totally forgetting the original purpose for coming to school, Ryuji became preoccupied with the shiso plants. Casually keeping one step apart, he didn't notice Taiga's eyes glaring at him.

Even with the violent like a wild carnivorous animal known as "palmtop tiger", in the face of the golden sun in the hot day, concentrating on the shiso harvesting, any thought of running by Ryuji was not to be found anymore. Instead Ryuji went "he he", laughing happily, occasionally smelling the fragrance of the crop going "mmm..." while narrowing his eyes and thinking, I wouldn't mind putting some of these shiso into a sachet for my wallet and mobile phone. Whether it was the demonic eyes or the scary features of the face, he looked like a hopeless addict picking some illegal weed that was secretly cultivated in the Hokkaido region., although he was just enjoying the feeling of having a miniature agricultural life with his small personal herb garden.

"Ah, that's right, Taiga!"

"......"

A smug smile and the usual cold silence was all he got. But Ryuji crawls over to Taiga on his knees from the mint plants without minding,

"In the flower bed over there, I have also planted eggplants and cucumber. Say, don't you want to take a look!? The seedlings grew and flowered before the closing ceremonies! Though I attempted last year, it was tragically caught by the gardening club and removed...... But this year!"

"Don't want to"

"Why. ......Hey, why are you so unkind to me? What is that strange look you're giving me?(Why are you looking at me like that?)"

"You are becoming more and more detestable! I knew I should have come on my own after all."

"Why is that!?"

In the first place, the reason why we came to school in the middle of summer vacation was to get the needed textbook which Taiga left in the locker. Although he wasn't asked particularly, but Ryuji, who was bored with a lot of free time, decided to accompany her.

As they passed through the school gate, they found the baseball club practicing. Taiga's crush, Kitamura, was there. Since the closing ceremony, Taiga has not seen Kitamura. Kitamura was of course busy with club activities and can be seen from a distance, so she would not like him to see her spying on him.

And so Ryuji and Taiga hid down beside the flowerbed at the side of the school building where the flowers grew thick, nestled between the sunflowers which swayed whenever they peeked. However, the huge weeds of the mid-summer was larger than the petite body of Taiga and blocked her view. So he let Taiga sit on his shoulder. For Taiga's sake, he showed some kindness. And then,

"You said I'm detestable, how am I detestable?!"

"There are lots including......such as your face, or such as your sweaty back. You, your entire shirt is drenched. Ah, that reminds me......"

Taiga puts her hand inside her own skirt, thinking about the close contact between her buttocks and Ryuji's shoulders earlier. Her eyes widened in shock, her small face twisting with disgust.

"Uh......ugh! My ass is wet with the sweat from your back! eeew! eeew!"

She stuck out her tongue and pretended to throw up. No matter how good-natured Ryuji is, it still felt insulting.

"Oh, don't you think it's also possible that my back is getting wet from the sweat of your butt as well!?"

"Not a chance!"

Instant denial, cutting off further talks Taiga turns around going, yuck! yuck! and starts to kick at the dirt with her foot like a cat after it uses a toilet. Sweat pours from Ryuji's skin, leaving spots on the ground.

"Ow! Ow! ......cough! Stop that you idiot! I was even kind enough to carry you on my shoulders!?"

"I'm now regretting that! What a disgusting sweaty dog! go away! get lost!"

"I will be using these shiso in tonight's tempura for our dinner, how can you say such a thing!? May lightning strike you down!"

"Ha! Lightning strikes can kill the germs! Whatever, I'm going to hurry and get that thing I forgot (textbook in the locker), as for you, you can stay here and bake in the heat!"

Like more lightning strikes hurting Ryuji's feelings further, Taiga's long hair fluttered as she turned towards the school building and ran off. Ryuji quietly rubs his sweat-soaked back, while shaking off the dirt on his hair like a dog, and biting his lip thinking. I knew it, she really is a terrible person.

--that witch, definitely, will have a horrible end.

Brushing her light colored hair with a tinge of gray, Taiga walked the deserted corridor towards the classroom on her own. Her exquisite profile as refined as delicate etched glass made her look like a French doll.

If she doesn't opens her mouth, rather, if not for "that" personality of hers, everyone would see Taiga as a very beautiful young lady. Her large eyes with light-colored pupils move relaxedly, looking like a kitten as it opens its mouth, the palmtop tiger lets out a lovely yawn. At times when no one is looking, Taiga does have a most captivating face.

However, the calm arch of Taiga's eyebrows suddenly raised steeply. From the other side of the corner, loud footsteps can be heard. It seems to be coming towards this place.

Disliking such a noisy person -- ignoring her own shortcomings, Taiga pouts with irritation at once. At this rate they may collide at the corner.

......or maybe not.

She did not try to change the route to an empty path nearby, this girl is called "the palmtop tiger" for a reason . Taiga absolutely walks where she wants to walk. Even if the other person is a guy from the sumo club or even if the other person is a teacher, she did not intend to change her way. She is walking properly, the other person is breaking the rules running, there is no reason to give way.

Resolutely sticking out her elbow sharply in out, Taiga lowered her head, continuing to plunge towards the prey which approached quickly. And sure enough, the moment she reached the corner,

"Ow... oh!"

"There it is...... kiyaaaah!"

Crash, the elbow connected bluntly. The other party who was knocked over screams loudly and lands on their butt, sitting in the hall due to the force of momentum. Standing firmly like a rock, before the eyes of the unperturbed Taiga, the schoolgirl's rather short skirt opened and was exposed fully. Both her pure white thighs and the seams of her light blue underpants were 100% exposed.

"......ah ah ah uuunggh~!"

Noticing the embarrassing position, she hurriedly sat down in the hall panicking and cried out again, pulling down on the hem of her skirt. And expressing "ouch" while pressing down her considerable chest that is best seen from the above. But by pressing down too strongly, did she know that it further enhanced the rounded shape to become clearly visible?

For some unknown reason (without any explanation), an even deeper cruelty and malevolence appeared in Taiga's eyes, looking down at this figure.

"......You, pay attention"

"Ah, s.. s... sor......"

Realizing that her panties had been exposed to just another girl, she lifted her eyes in that instant with a tinge of relief. However, with a blink of an eye, she realized that it was "the palmtop tiger" that stood arrogantly in front of her.

"......te... te... te..., teno...... eeek!"

Her round cheeks lost all color of blood in that instant.

Between Taiga's eyebrows, furrows looking like sawblades appeared.

Not even apologizing for knocking into me. Instead acting frightened like a victim. I hate this kind of person the most. Incidentally, I also hate those irresponsibly big breasts. ......without stating any apparent reason.

”......can't you even say "I'm sorry"? or is it, in your world, the "te... te... te..., teno..." acts as a form of apology? eh? what a barbarian!"

"o... o... o... urk!" (TL comment:the girl is trying to say "sorry")

"You're still not apologizing!"

To quickly settle this simple issue. Facing the frightened girl, Taiga ruthlessly stepped forward. Whether the other party is a guy or a girl makes no difference, Taiga's hostility to either was easily aroused. But at this moment, it felt like her foot was stepping on something.

"......?"

The girl who collided dropped her notebook, and it was under Taiga's foot. She notices it, and grimaced,

"Aaah...... Kota-kun's notebook...... the only symbol of our love......"

she cried out in despair. Tch, and Taiga clicked her tongue while, with some emphasis, picking it up with her hands, and playing with it in her hand without returning it,

"You're really good at acting as the victim......since having something so important stepped would make you cry, then you shouldn't have dropped it in the first place......."

Glaring through her glittering and brutal eyes, sizing up the girl from head to toe. Her nasal breath was rough with excitement going "ngggh nggggh", and blood rushes throughout fueling the serious malicious intent emanating from her body. "or-, or-, sor-", the female freshman cries tearfully, seemingly frozen in that spot.

a cruel smile twisted on the rosy lips of Taiga -- now then, let's see what we can do to this big-breasted girl with audacious panties that are fully exposed.

"What is it, Sakura?"

From the other side of the corridor, a voice echoed coldly

"sis-, sister!”

the big breated girl who had her panties exposed stands up and runs away, hiding her body like a rabbit behind the girl who appeared. Taiga recognized that girl,

"......it's here......"

muttering with very low voice. From her entire small body, the scent of danger from a 1 ton tiger emanates. All reason seem to disappear from her eyes -- Taiga hates this person the most.

"What have we here. ......aah, Aisaka Taiga. You are Kitamura's friend, I believe. I,"

"......think"

The girl with waist-length flowing black hair, was cold and spoke rudely like a man, which did not match her good looks. Taiga knew her. It was the president of the student council.

The student council president work with Kitamura everyday, and often as cleaning volunteers, they walk alongside together, and Kitamura would smile happily without a word -- Taiga was bitterly jealous of that girl.

"You recognize me? ......well then, why? why are you bullying my younger sister? Can you give me a good explanation"

calmly, without showing even a trace of fear, with an indulgent smile, the obnoxious student council president asks Taiga.

"......your younger sister?"

"Ah, this is my younger sister, Kanou Sakura, a freshman. ......bullying an underclassman girl, as expected of the Palmtop Tiger, aren't we attacking an easy prey?"

The big breasted panties girl hide behind the president of the student council, her body trembled going "pu ru pu ru". Taiga points at her without hesitation,

"Hey, as the elder sister, you should be ashamed of that exhibitionist. Your younger sister was running in this corridor, and crashed into the blameless me, rather than apologizing to me she spouts some crazy words and crying as if I were the one at fault, and now hides behind you"

"Hey. ......Sakura. Is this true?"

The big breasted panties girl was startled, she grimaced, and then looked up at her elder sister gasping,

"mo... mo... more or less.... !"

as soon as she nodded, the top of her head was struck! Even Taiga felt a little sympathy seeing that merciless karate chop. With some uncertain steps, her back was pushed down in front of Taiga,

"Now, you've made me look bad! You should properly apologize! How long are you going to hide behind me!"

having been yelled at with such a resounding voice. Tears formed at the corners of her eyes as she cowered down and looked up hesitantly,

"s.. s.. s-sorry...... I'm very sorry......Aisaka-senpai......"

In front of Taiga she bowed down deeply. "Keh", and Taiga snorted through her nose losing some of her fury, brushing her hair up and decided to forgive her this time, she starts to turn away.

But,

"uhm... uhm.... no..., notebook...."

"......huh!?"

at the sound of the soft voice, Taiga turns back again and her eyes filled with murderous intent. Although the big breasted panties girl shivered with fright, she didn't hide behind her elder sister again, even though both her legs were shaking, she desperately reaches her hand out.

"uhm, uhm, the notebook......? Please return it! It's not mine! i... it's from someone important, it's our only connection! i.. i... i'll do anything~!"

however that desperation, strikes at Taiga's heart......no, it lit an inherent fire of fury.

"SH... SH.. SHUT UP! You, to what degree do you want to falsely accuse me!? I just forgot about giving this to you! You think I would want something like this!?"

"Not!"

Taking the notebook in her hands, Taiga violently throws the notebook towards the throat of the big breasted panties girl, hitting back like a butcher.

While trying to catch the notebook the big breasted panties girl fell down on her knees groaning painfully. "aaaah", hitting her elbow while the student council president looks on, Taiga turns around and starts to leave.

But just at that instant. Something jumped deliberately right into Taiga's sight.

On the cover of the notebook with the distinct 22.5 cm shoeprint in the hands of the big breasted pants girl, the owner's name was clearly written with a felt-tip pen. ------"1-A Tomiie Kota".

＊　＊　＊

”waaah~, today it's somewhat extravagant~! Ryu-chan, how much prawns are there?"

"3 pieces per person"

"yay~, yay~"

Having completed her makeup except for the lipstick, with a hot curler still attached to her brightly dyed hair, Ryuji's mother - Yasuko, wearing a pink camisole and Ryuji's old middle-school jersey (track) pants and her huge breasts swaying wildly.

The innocent child-like face happily holding the chopsticks, looked like a young girl with her makeup, with beautifully painted rosy pink glossy nails, her hair flowing over her smooth collarbone, highlighting her feminine charms with a sweet scent that emits from Yasuko's skin more suitable for her real age and her evening work.

"properly eat the vegetables too, ok? and also the shiso"

"tempura shiso, I loooo~ve it! Ryu-chan too, I loooo~ve!"

At the narrow and low dining table, like peeking through a sheer cloth the colorful vegetables can be seen as well as Ryuji's wonderful tempura all lined up. In the miso soup, there is tofu, daikon (radish/turnip), vegetables; the steamed rice mixed with five spices; and today's side dish, pickled eggplants --- grown in secret in the school's gardens. As for the tempura sauce, lemon juice, or grated daikon, or anything to suit the personal taste.

half past 6 in the evening, Takasu family living room. Sitting around the low dining table were Ryuji, Yasuko, and Taiga, ready to have their usual dinner.

"bon appetit", they all said together, Yasuko reaches over for the prawn, Ryuji brings the miso soup to his mouth. Taiga's chopsticks hovers over the prawns, but why is she hesitating,

"Hey, move your chopsticks"

Ryuji scowled. But Taiga just grimaced, without any retort, and just like that stopped moving.

"......what is it?"

"......what's the matter? Taiga-chan?"

Even though she was being asked by both mother and son Taiga remains seated rigidly. "......" keeping her mouth shut. The usual Taiga would have taken even Ryuji's share of the mains together when she extended her chopsticks. Yasuko is concerned, and puts down her chopsticks,

”I see... I see..., sorry ＊ Ya-chan absolutely looo~ves Taiga-chan~ ＊"

"huh"

swoosh, and Taiga was hugged tightly. she kisses "tsup tsup tsuuuup". Being buried between those huge breasts Taiga couldn't make a sound, before long, her small hands pushed painfully with a pitter-patter sound

"I can't breathe! I can't breathe!"

"Aaaahh......"

at the time she was released, she gasps for air and simultaneously collapses onto the seat futon (zabuton). After a little while, not wanting Ryuji and Yasuko to worry about her, she slowly straightens her body.

"......no.., nothing. actually, I just a little bit......don't really feel like eating anything"

"You don't have any appetite!?"

"That is just so~"

"......even me, even when I'm slightly ill, i would still have it! ......this, take this. and this too"

Taiga passes a prawn towards Yasuko, another towards Ryuji, and the other one left, after being dipped in the tempura sauce, she gingerly brings to her own small mouth like trying out the taste.

"Don't be unreasonable (don't force yourself to eat), are you really okay?"

taking a bite, Taiga nods her head while sprinkling salt, adding more. pauses and continues eating it as it is.

"......don't worry. I can eat this. delicious"

also taking in a mouthful of white rice.

"you should probably take back the prawn? you should savor it since you're able to eat, you will see shrimps on our dining table only once a year~"

"it's ok, after eating the vegetables I'm already good"

after eating one prawn, Taiga's appetite seem to have improved, as she also drinks the miso soup. And so Ryuji was relieved,

"Shiso can be considered medicine. You should take more"

The platter of mint was turned so that it faced Taiga. Taiga nods, and takes one piece to her mouth immediately. She seems to like it, taking another piece.

In the end, Taiga also eats the other vegetable tempura, the pickled vegetables, the miso soup, and also some rice (this is a very rare situation, normally she can easily finish three bowls), for the time being we have finished eating.

Yasuko also felt relieved after seeing that, and heads out to work taking the Chanel bag that she always treasured--some disaster would occur, several hours later.

"......Ryuji......I......may be dying......"

Ryuji turns his head upon hearing this shocking statement, it was already after 10 in the evening.

As usual they were relaxing after eating and having a good time, folding a cushion in half and spreading it, the two of them were carelessly lying flat down on the tatami mat watching television. Neither of them did anything, they begin to fall asleep.

"......I'm dying......"

"wh......what?"

Noticing Taiga behind Ryuji, she seemed to have sprawled down awkwardly, somewhat like toppling sideways holding her stomach, her complexion turned very pale. Although Taiga has always been very fair-skinned, her skin tone now was a tinge of pale beige, she was very pale. Ryuji hurriedly gets up, crawling over causing Taiga's hair to scatter on the tatami with his knees.

"How is it!? Is it a stomach-ache!?"

"i-.. it hurts... a... lot...."

"do you need to go to the toilet? can you stand? are you going to throw up?!"

"toilet...... I don't think the pain is that bad......"

Wheezing and coughing, she vomited, Taiga softly shivers. Traces of cold sweat form on her damp forehead, it was quite cold.

"Is it your Stomach!?"

"I-..., I don't know...... it just hurts..... here"

Around the navel of the dress which has a repeating cotton lace pattern which expands softly, she strokes that area with her small hand. Ryuji realized clearly, this is quite serious.

"w-, we should go to the hospital!"

Inside the birdcage placed in a corner of the living room, a disfigured parrot called inko-chan also chimed "that's right!" while nodding with the whites of its eyes bulging.

"oh yes, ambulance......must call the ambulance!"

"i-, i-, isn't that a bit exaggerated....?"

"but you can't walk, right!? aren't you dying!?"

"Calling an ambulance just for a stomach-ache......don't......I-... I can cope......uuugh~......"

Taiga strains her voice, and twists her body to try to endure the pain. It can't be helped---Ryuji quickly opened the phonebook, verifying that the nearby university hospital have night time emergency facilities, dials the phone while taking his wallet and the health insurance card and putting them in his pocket.

"Oh! use my insurance card!"

The trembling becomes more apparent. The health insurance card is taken out and inserted into the slanting back pocket, carrying the light body of the weary Taiga who was lying down. Taiga was silent, like a ventriloquist's doll being carried in the arms of Ryuji, her face pressed against his shoulders,

"......nngh......nnggh......"

while enduring the pain she moans softly.

Impatiently locking the door with the housekey, Ryuji rushes out from the front door even though he was only wearing his sandals. Making loud "kang kang" noise that rang on the iron stairs as he ran down, carrying Taiga to the main street to catch a taxi,

"Sorry, there's someone sick here! Would you mind letting us go ahead!?"

Jumping out in front of an older office worker who had just stopped a taxi, he pleads. Under the light that shines on Ryuji's evil-looking sanpaku eyes, the older man felt threatened, and dropped his bag out of instinctive fear, and takes one step back,

"thank you very much!"

Ryuji interpreted that as a "Yes", and slides in the open taxi door. Informing the name of the university hospital and screaming "hurry, this person is sick!" to the driver, who adjusted the rearview mirror and nodded many times. Understanding the circumstance, made him realize it was not a car-jacking.

"Taiga, hang in there! we're almost there!"

Taiga cannot even sit properly, instead she could only lie prone on Ryuji's lap, even now trembling due to the pain.

So pitiful--no matter how she had verbally abused him, or the violent treatment he received, They were kindred who ate meals out of the same pot. Taiga is really a girl after all. Ryuji can see that she was patiently enduring the pain, trying not to cry out loud. And so he brushes her long hair gently that has become disheveled.

Just what on earth is going on? Is it food poisoning, appendicitis, or is it some other worse disease?

"......dead......"

"id-, idiot! stop saying you're dead or dying! saying such words will only make things worse!"

"......you're wrong......it's not me....that fellow......"

maybe he is dead.

While lying on Ryuji's knee, Taiga was babbling incoherently. Maybe it was playing dead, that fellow, that black tomcat, or maybe it really is dead. Then perhaps, this is its curse.

"wh~.., what? what do you mean?"

"......uhm, freshman's, female......final memento, those words......that thing......after death, that relic, that maybe....oh"

"that freshman's, uhm......are you talking about the incident this morning?"

It was when Ryuji was in the middle of harvesting the shiso and eggplants when Taiga encountered that incident in the school building with the freshman girl. Ryuji heard about this when they were on their way home.

"I..... stepped on it at that time, that notebook......because it was too ominous, i didn't say a word......that-, that thing, was......[Tomiie Kota's] property......"

Can it be? (No way), Ryuji instinctively stares around the ear of Taiga who's facing down. He knew Tomiie Kota. He is a close junior of Kitamura, a freshman in the student council, and is Taiga's so-called "black tomcat"--they say misfortune will follow when a black cat crosses one's path. In Taiga's case, it was Tomiie Kota in particular, who is the black cat that brought about this misfortune. Every time Tomiie Kota appears before Taiga, some unbelievable misfortune seem to happen to Taiga.

Her lunch sandwich would be trampled. The canned coffee would fly out of the machine and eventually slam onto her head. When cutting the tail of a fried horse mackerel, it gets stuck onto her forehead, this can also be attributed to him; when she was was walking from school, she would get hit by a dropped eraser; sometimes soya milk would be sprayed onto her face -- it's because he is Kitamura's junior, and simply for this one reason that he is able to still survive, if not because of this, Taiga would have already personally delivered this insolent underclassman to hell.

Ryuji also knows about this very well. Those encounters with Taiga were probably also miserable and unfortunate occurrences for him. But then,

"the-, the-, therefore, why the hell did this curse......"

"He's dead......that fellow, is dead......soul in that notebook......I, stepped on that......?"

Taiga's body continued shivering weakly. Her fingers grasping Ryuji's kneecaps through the trousers felt icy-cold,

"......it keeps following......that fellow's, bad luck, through his spirit.....ugh......"

Taiga continued to moan, the sound of her suffering echoing in the silent taxi.

＊　＊　＊

"For nighttime emergency medical diagnosis and treatment, it can be troublesome unless you telephone first, don't you think?"

......at last, we're here. carrying Taiga, who was trembling, to the reception counter who murmured for the first time:

"th~, that being said......i'm sorry. and so..., uhm..., can we get this medical examination started?"

"What was that?"

The woman in a business attire with the strange thick makeup was a bit unnerved in front of Ryuji's scary face, carrying Taiga carefully and looking up. Taiga seemed to be already at death's door, could not respond to the situation,

"It seems to be a stomachache. She was already feeling ill before the meal, and it seems to have become very bad a few minutes after eating!"

"What did she eat-?"

"Tempura!"

"......Tempura!?"

Ha!

and, i heard a snort that sounded like a nasal laugh -- hopefully it was just my imagination. The woman tosses a sheet of paper forward from the counter,

"here, please fill this-"

and even though being told that, his arm doesn't move but remained holding onto Taiga. Ryuji cuts the woman off, carefully lays Taiga down on the sofa of the lobby. even though Taiga's eyes were closed, she doesn't lose consciousness, gritting her teeth to endure the pain with an expression of anguish. The fluorescent light were turned off, only small electric lamps dimly illuminated the spacious lobby. There were no sign of any other patients, and voices echoed strangely.

"pl-, pl-, please lend me a pen"

after a cold glare, a pen was rolled across the counter with the "cara cara" sound echoing.

in any case; name and address (the house number of the building next to Ryuji's home should be correct, right?), symptom, I scribbled it hurriedly,

"er-, uh, is the insurance card good by tomorrow?"

"please wait over there on the sofa-"

his question wasn't answered either, and the paper wasn't looked at also, the woman just casually tossed it into an unknown box at the side. What kind of treatment is this? he wanted to ask, but it seemed better to just obey that woman's instructions and wait. Ryuji went back to Taiga who moaned, and sat down beside her, but somehow, had an inexplicable idea.

this place, it's no different from the jungle.

......isn't it? Should he take her to another place before it's too late? That woman at the reception counter is certainly not a doctor or a nurse, but her symptoms are very dire, it's probably better to find out her condition now. Glancing quietly at the suffering Taiga, however, luck seemed to change in that moment of hesitation.

"Aisaka-san, please!"

A voice calls from the examination room, and soon that woman approaches us pushing a wheelchair with a clattering sound.

"Please ride in this-"

Taiga opened her eyes slightly, and reflexively twists her body and tries to escape as if sensing something foreboding, the woman quickly reaches across and with Ryuji's help, grasps the child and places her onto the wheelchair. The woman than pushed the wheelchair efficiently into the examination room. Ryuji hastily pursues after them.

This is the patient-, the woman announced immediately, and the open door of the examination room started closing automatically.

gaaa! just as the doors were closing, he grabbed onto Taiga's leg and faltered. Ignoring both the wheezing Ryuji and the silent Taiga, the woman calmly opens the door,

"Please, go in!"

Without warning, she pushes the wheelchair in and lets it go,

"aiyee!"

Taiga's careening wheelchair was caught with the foot of a slipper by a young man in a white coat -- why is his head shaven, this doctor. He examines Taiga's leg while smiling amiably,

"What seems to be the problem-? ah, this leg? Is it painful, if that's the case I can surely heal it quickly."

"that was caused by banging on that door just now! It's stomachache!"

If Ryuji didn't immediately say anything, the doctor would probably only examine the leg and send them home after. Ah, abdominal pain? how much (pain)? and the doctor puts on the stethoscope to listen to the stomach of Taiga.

But Taiga's bulky cotton lace clothes had too much frills piled up to the point of death (also known as Furi Furi one-piece virtue), seeing this, the doctor shakes his head, as if he cannot understand where to open it.

"hah! I give up. lie down on the examination table for a while-, put your head here-, yes, yes, that's it"

the wheelchair's brakes weren't engaged, Taiga trembled as she endured the pain struggling while slowly transferring to the examination table. The doctor only reads the medical chart without noticing anything else. Ryuji being flustered, tries to lend a hand to Taiga, but,

"Ah, are you with her? her relative-?"

"eh? uhm... no, a friend......"

Suddenly being asked by that doctor, Ryuji turned his head around, in that instant, Taiga fell off the swiveling wheelchair that slipped. And she hit the hard floor with a dull thumping sound.

"Oh! Ta-, Taiga!"

"......uh......"

Clinging onto the wobbling consultation seat, Taiga stands up with a dazed look, quietly rubbing her forehead. The doctor than jokes,

"aha ha ha ha ha~, what are you doing!? is that where it hurts~!? what's the~"

the doctor seem to jokingly place the stethoscope on the forehead, until he noticed the evil eyes of Ryuji who stared in utter amazement at this unbelievable scene.

"......you-, your face, isn't it scary~! can you go away for a little while so as not to distract me!? It's really scaring me~!"

"eh......bu~, but......"

"it's ok, it's ok! just wait over there!"

He was chased off up to the doorway of the examination room almost totally pushed out. The curtain is closed, the view of Taiga passes out of sight. But how can he leave that seemingly useless doctor and Taiga alone together? he regretfully chews on his fingernails,

"......"

"......"

looking around, an elementary schoolboy was sitting in the corner of the examination room. he has asthmatic spasm but still raises and opens his mouth widely to inhale some steam, arms crossed with a "Nobody else is allowed to fiddle with this" posture while tightly hugging the machine. His eyes were glazed over like dead fish slowly losing freshness -- perhaps, it's not only due to the illness that he is fatigued.

It was absolutely a mistake to have come here, realizing this now.

"Aaargh!"

Taiga's tearful voice echoed. Just like the scream of a bear caught in a trap.

"It's alright, it's alright, I'm just drawing a little blood! Ah, failed again. ......tch! what the shit!. ......this time for sure......still nothing, tch! can't find the vein, wait a minute,"

"Aaaah, aaahh, aaaaaaahhh~!"

"I'm just looking for the vein......tch! No, this is no good! switching to the other arm, this is also useless, tch! tch! shit!"

The sounds echoing in the consultation room were scarier than anything in the world. As the terrifying voice of Taiga came to a halt, Ryuji was left standing petrified. The tongue-click noise continues, making him want to cover his ears, but the fact was Taiga was brought here by himself. He cannot avert his eyes from this scary responsibility......well, let's stop this already, have to tell him to stop this. And then have to get her out and go to another place.

With that determination he opens the curtain,

"Ha! I got it... I got it! with this it shouldn't hurts so much anymore, once we can examine the blood we should be able to determine if there was infection inside the stomach, you can rest assured from this blood check-!"

The syringe is full of Taiga's somewhat strange looking dark colored blood. The doctor smiles proudly after such a difficult ordeal,

"there, just wait a little bit! here, take this as an apology for the pain caused!"

Taking out a candy from the pocket of the white coat, unwrapping it and dropping it in the mouth of Taiga which remains half-open without moving. Taiga grabs Ryuji's hand suddenly, and coughs out the candy. The candy rolls a bit in Ryuji's hand before becoming stuck. ......that's understandable, but, on the other hand, Ryuji was feeling troubled. If a person comes to the hospital with a painful stomach, why would you give them candy......

after all this, we were told, we have to go back to the sofa of the waiting room again for another 20 minutes. Taiga plops herself down and occasionally groans, and continues to shiver slightly and rubs circles on her stomach desperately. The inner side of her left arm was quickly bruising, absorbent cotton was taped to the inner side of her right arm, a seemingly impossible amount of blood seeping into it. Her eyes glazed over lifelessly, and her complexion became terribly pasty.

"......Taiga. Hey......"

"......"

There was no response. Her voice doesn't come out anymore either. Her lips were parched dry and cracked, but maybe because she also bit on them to endure the pain, that's why it is bleeding a bit. The truth was, she surely looked worse now then before coming to this place.

It can't be helped, but the cause of the stomach pain must be discovered, and it must be treated,

"uhm, ahem~, I'm not really sure!"

from behind, incoherent voices conversed idly.

With a sinking feeling, Ryuji looks back at that doctor standing behind him. In his hand was an intravenous bag that he was going to hang onto a metal support .

"that blood we drew just now, it won't be able to help us determine the cause of the stomachache!"

"wo~, wo~, won't be able......"

"but it will help us to determine that there is no inflammation of the appendix. On the other hand, this may be something that we can't just treat at an emergency ward!"

Huh! feeling dismayed at this time in the face of the smiling doctor , while discreetly keeping Taiga behind him, Ryuji desperately questioned the doctor.

"if it's not intestinal, then, could it be some women's issue, for example gynecological problems......"

"If that's the case, that would not be considered a health emergency, unfortunately! If you really want to know what is wrong, please come back during regular hours to consult a general practitioner, oh yes, as this is a university hospital, there is no referral, so it can be quite expensive!"

"so~, somehow could it be catarrh or...... those things are......"

"That-is-why~, she did not have diarrhea, right!? nor did she she throw up, right!? even though you have come to the emergency room, we were still unable to treat it! There is no bleeding in her stomach, and there is no symptom that warrants treatment at an emergency ward! Is it food poisoning, there doesn't seem to be any such acute symptoms! Neither is it constipation! and it doesn't seem to be gas! anyway, the only thing noticeable is that she is in pain but cannot elaborate what is the pain, so...this!"

and why do you seem to be so happy, or is it merely the night shifts causing you to have high emotional tension, the doctor just pointed at the intravenous drip. Picking up the readied tube, and as soon as the cap of the needle was removed,

"This is pain-killer! Ah, this is good, a needle was left in a while ago just in case something like this might happen. This child, her blood vessels are quite difficult to find~"

The cotton on the inner right arm of Taiga was peeled off. Blood was gradually seeping out......the needle on the rubber-like mouth still remains stuck. Eehhh......but Ryuji takes a few steps back, not able to do anything. The doctor works in front of Ryuji, with great skill and dexterity, adjusts the rate of the intravenous drip,

"when the drip runs out, call me!"

"......he~, here, leave the IV drip here......? this, in the lobby?"

"there will probably be other patients, therefore we must keep the examination room free. Because sometimes serious injuries do arrive"

"......that sounds terrible......"

"like ruptured intestine"

not really caring about accounts about injuries to internal organs, and nonchalantly divulging such findings, the doctor finishes by turning back to the examination room. This university hospital certainly has a reputation as a very advanced lifesaving institution, it is one of Japan's leading hospitals. It's only logical that such serious cases would be sent here.

However, I do get it, and Ryuji incidentally also came to an unusual understanding. An excellent doctor will surely be assigned to more urgent lifesaving situations, this young doctor with seemingly less skills might have been left behind here. Oh my, although this is just the imaginings of a selfish layman, judging by the suitability of that unnecessary examination~

"Taiga!?"

looking over suddenly, Ryuji shouted shrilly. Rashes were appearing all over the entire body of Taiga to which the painkiller was administered, especially from the inner arm where the needle of the IV drip is stuck. The hives can be seen spreading quickly, connecting together forming large masses of rashes,

"Oh, oh, OH......EMERGENCY! TAIGA! someone help!"

"......oou~, aaaargh......"

"Someone please come and help!"

Mouth gaping wide and wailing beside Ryuji, Taiga noticed the IV drip needle inserted in her arm for the first time.

"wh~, what~......can't breath.....whew~! this......wha~......ooow......whew~!"

"Taiga, hang in there! This is the drug to stop the pain!"

"......tch, stop... pain..., drug......I......"

"wheez wheez" sounds like from a high-pitched whistle were emanating from the throat of Taiga. Her body was twisted in pain. Her airway narrowed. The doctor and several nurses hurries over, looking at Taiga's face, and at that instant "bong!" and the eyelid can be seen swelling up,

"Oh, this is bad"

I, am allergic to pain-killers.

--these few words were squeaked out within Taiga's scant breath with great difficulty. Well then, is this an allergic reaction? Doctor, why didn't you first inquire about allergies? And, why was the intravenous drip administered without obtaining the patient's consent?

But Ryuji did not know yet. Of course Taiga did not know either. Neither did the nurses nor the doctor know. Already on the floor above, on this hospital's second floor, a new misery......no, the curse of the black cat had already begun to carve its way to bring more terror for Taiga.

Second floor, at the public telephone at the nurse's station.

A high school freshman who is hospitalized with bone fractures in many places all over his body, grasping several 10 yen coins in his hand, paces back and forth unceasingly in front of the nurse's station since a little while ago.

what is it, Tomiie-kun. want to telephone your girlfriend? don't have a telephone card?

what is it, what is it, you do have a girlfriend!?

eh-what kind of person is she? girlie gal? clean and innocent? come on, come on, unless you call her quickly the grandma of ward 402 will be on the phone again for a long time.

We won't listen in, we're not listening in! see, we are not straining up our ears to eavesdrop.

go ahead, go ahead, everyone encouraged~!

he was extremely hesitant and awkward but in the end, only calls home after all, and asks for some change of pants, and quickly leaves the nurses' station afterwards. He was not yet mature enough to be able to call the girl he likes in front of those working elder sisters.

At this time, the remaining 10 yen coin that was tightly clasped was accidentally dropped. The coin went "clink clank" as it bounds and roll down the stairs, it was impossible to pick up as it rolled down and ended on the first floor before you could say "ah". Although it's only a 10 yen coin, money is still money, so he runs after it in a hurry, running all the way down to the lobby on the first floor. The rolling coin made a "korokoro" sound was still being chased, began to roll on to a deserted corridor.

(~80%~)

Toradora!:Spin-Off Legend of the Black Catboy of Misfortune

2009-12-10T01:03:17Z

RonnieCorny: /* Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune */

===Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune===

"...... d- d- d-, did you see it?"

"It's no use, the trees over there are obstructing...... a little more to the left"

"......h- h- h-, how?"

"It's no good, that tree is obstructing it this time. ......ah, darn! It's quite frustrating! Can we cut it all down!?"

--I may do it.

Takasu Ryuji struggled as he crouched down silently in order to drop the hooligan off his shoulders. The hooligan got down on the ground violently with both feet.

"Damn!"

He swore at the whole world, unleashing his frustration, He tore off an innocent leaf of a shiso plant in the lush flower bed. The mint's scent drifted in the hellish heat of the noon of midsummer.

"Oh forget it, it's okay, that's a wrap. ......aaaah, even though I took the effort to come to school during summer vacation, I can't get one clear view of Kitamura-kun in his club activities. I am extremely unlucky......Hey, why are you ignoring me when I'm feeling down!?"

As Ryuji crouched down to pick some shiso leaves, the hooligan, known as Aisaka Taiga, kicked him right down and into the middle of the buttocks with the toe of her shoes.

"Ow...... that hurts, you dumbass!"

"You stupid idiot! You impudent dog!"

Whack! And he got slapped in the mouth this time, then Ryuji's fierce eyes shone as he shouted back at Taiga without backing off one bit.

"Hit me or whatever you want to do, but I, these shiso, you can't stop me from taking them! These mints are FREE! I'm free to take them! Do you understand!?"

"Tch! Waitaminit! Spit! Gross!"

"Shut up! It's free, I'm free to take it. besides, mint is my favorite! You should be happy to be able to enjoy these in the delicious salad noodles and pickled tuna covered rice every day! Incidentally, here, it was me who planted the mint! On dry days I'm also the one who waters them, sending the pests to the afterlife was also me! Therefore I have every right to harvest these mints!"

"......"

"Nevermind that! Help me pick them if you understand! Ah... It's good that I remembered, last time I finished picking them all, I wasn't sure how soon they would grow again. So careless, so careless, to almost forget. And I don't usually come here when summer vacation begins...... but then, the shiso plants are strong, look at this lush growth!"

Happily-- totally forgetting the original purpose for coming to school, Ryuji became preoccupied with the shiso plants. Casually keeping one step apart, he didn't notice Taiga's eyes glaring at him.

Even with the violent like a wild carnivorous animal known as "palmtop tiger", in the face of the golden sun in the hot day, concentrating on the shiso harvesting, any thought of running by Ryuji was not to be found anymore. Instead Ryuji went "he he", laughing happily, occasionally smelling the fragrance of the crop going "mmm..." while narrowing his eyes and thinking, I wouldn't mind putting some of these shiso into a sachet for my wallet and mobile phone. Whether it was the demonic eyes or the scary features of the face, he looked like a hopeless addict picking some illegal weed that was secretly cultivated in the Hokkaido region., although he was just enjoying the feeling of having a miniature agricultural life with his small personal herb garden.

"Ah, that's right, Taiga!"

"......"

A smug smile and the usual cold silence was all he got. But Ryuji crawls over to Taiga on his knees from the mint plants without minding,

"In the flower bed over there, I have also planted eggplants and cucumber. Say, don't you want to take a look!? The seedlings grew and flowered before the closing ceremonies! Though I attempted last year, it was tragically caught by the gardening club and removed...... But this year!"

"Don't want to"

"Why. ......Hey, why are you so unkind to me? What is that strange look you're giving me?(Why are you looking at me like that?)"

"You are becoming more and more detestable! I knew I should have come on my own after all."

"Why is that!?"

In the first place, the reason why we came to school in the middle of summer vacation was to get the needed textbook which Taiga left in the locker. Although he wasn't asked particularly, but Ryuji, who was bored with a lot of free time, decided to accompany her.

As they passed through the school gate, they found the baseball club practicing. Taiga's crush, Kitamura, was there. Since the closing ceremony, Taiga has not seen Kitamura. Kitamura was of course busy with club activities and can be seen from a distance, so she would not like him to see her spying on him.

And so Ryuji and Taiga hid down beside the flowerbed at the side of the school building where the flowers grew thick, nestled between the sunflowers which swayed whenever they peeked. However, the huge weeds of the mid-summer was larger than the petite body of Taiga and blocked her view. So he let Taiga sit on his shoulder. For Taiga's sake, he showed some kindness. And then,

"You said I'm detestable, how am I detestable?!"

"There are lots including......such as your face, or such as your sweaty back. You, your entire shirt is drenched. Ah, that reminds me......"

Taiga puts her hand inside her own skirt, thinking about the close contact between her buttocks and Ryuji's shoulders earlier. Her eyes widened in shock, her small face twisting with disgust.

"Uh......ugh! My ass is wet with the sweat from your back! eeew! eeew!"

She stuck out her tongue and pretended to throw up. No matter how good-natured Ryuji is, it still felt insulting.

"Oh, don't you think it's also possible that my back is getting wet from the sweat of your butt as well!?"

"Not a chance!"

Instant denial, cutting off further talks Taiga turns around going, yuck! yuck! and starts to kick at the dirt with her foot like a cat after it uses a toilet. Sweat pours from Ryuji's skin, leaving spots on the ground.

"Ow! Ow! ......cough! Stop that you idiot! I was even kind enough to carry you on my shoulders!?"

"I'm now regretting that! What a disgusting sweaty dog! go away! get lost!"

"I will be using these shiso in tonight's tempura for our dinner, how can you say such a thing!? May lightning strike you down!"

"Ha! Lightning strikes can kill the germs! Whatever, I'm going to hurry and get that thing I forgot (textbook in the locker), as for you, you can stay here and bake in the heat!"

Like more lightning strikes hurting Ryuji's feelings further, Taiga's long hair fluttered as she turned towards the school building and ran off. Ryuji quietly rubs his sweat-soaked back, while shaking off the dirt on his hair like a dog, and biting his lip thinking. I knew it, she really is a terrible person.

--that witch, definitely, will have a horrible end.

Brushing her light colored hair with a tinge of gray, Taiga walked the deserted corridor towards the classroom on her own. Her exquisite profile as refined as delicate etched glass made her look like a French doll.

If she doesn't opens her mouth, rather, if not for "that" personality of hers, everyone would see Taiga as a very beautiful young lady. Her large eyes with light-colored pupils move relaxedly, looking like a kitten as it opens its mouth, the palmtop tiger lets out a lovely yawn. At times when no one is looking, Taiga does have a most captivating face.

However, the calm arch of Taiga's eyebrows suddenly raised steeply. From the other side of the corner, loud footsteps can be heard. It seems to be coming towards this place.

Disliking such a noisy person -- ignoring her own shortcomings, Taiga pouts with irritation at once. At this rate they may collide at the corner.

......or maybe not.

She did not try to change the route to an empty path nearby, this girl is called "the palmtop tiger" for a reason . Taiga absolutely walks where she wants to walk. Even if the other person is a guy from the sumo club or even if the other person is a teacher, she did not intend to change her way. She is walking properly, the other person is breaking the rules running, there is no reason to give way.

Resolutely sticking out her elbow sharply in out, Taiga lowered her head, continuing to plunge towards the prey which approached quickly. And sure enough, the moment she reached the corner,

"Ow... oh!"

"There it is...... kiyaaaah!"

Crash, the elbow connected bluntly. The other party who was knocked over screams loudly and lands on their butt, sitting in the hall due to the force of momentum. Standing firmly like a rock, before the eyes of the unperturbed Taiga, the schoolgirl's rather short skirt opened and was exposed fully. Both her pure white thighs and the seams of her light blue underpants were 100% exposed.

"......ah ah ah uuunggh~!"

Noticing the embarrassing position, she hurriedly sat down in the hall panicking and cried out again, pulling down on the hem of her skirt. And expressing "ouch" while pressing down her considerable chest that is best seen from the above. But by pressing down too strongly, did she know that it further enhanced the rounded shape to become clearly visible?

For some unknown reason (without any explanation), an even deeper cruelty and malevolence appeared in Taiga's eyes, looking down at this figure.

"......You, pay attention"

"Ah, s.. s... sor......"

Realizing that her panties had been exposed to just another girl, she lifted her eyes in that instant with a tinge of relief. However, with a blink of an eye, she realized that it was "the palmtop tiger" that stood arrogantly in front of her.

"......te... te... te..., teno...... eeek!"

Her round cheeks lost all color of blood in that instant.

Between Taiga's eyebrows, furrows looking like sawblades appeared.

Not even apologizing for knocking into me. Instead acting frightened like a victim. I hate this kind of person the most. Incidentally, I also hate those irresponsibly big breasts. ......without stating any apparent reason.

”......can't you even say "I'm sorry"? or is it, in your world, the "te... te... te..., teno..." acts as a form of apology? eh? what a barbarian!"

"o... o... o... urk!" (TL comment:the girl is trying to say "sorry")

"You're still not apologizing!"

To quickly settle this simple issue. Facing the frightened girl, Taiga ruthlessly stepped forward. Whether the other party is a guy or a girl makes no difference, Taiga's hostility to either was easily aroused. But at this moment, it felt like her foot was stepping on something.

"......?"

The girl who collided dropped her notebook, and it was under Taiga's foot. She notices it, and grimaced,

"Aaah...... Kota-kun's notebook...... the only symbol of our love......"

she cried out in despair. Tch, and Taiga clicked her tongue while, with some emphasis, picking it up with her hands, and playing with it in her hand without returning it,

"You're really good at acting as the victim......since having something so important stepped would make you cry, then you shouldn't have dropped it in the first place......."

Glaring through her glittering and brutal eyes, sizing up the girl from head to toe. Her nasal breath was rough with excitement going "ngggh nggggh", and blood rushes throughout fueling the serious malicious intent emanating from her body. "or-, or-, sor-", the female freshman cries tearfully, seemingly frozen in that spot.

a cruel smile twisted on the rosy lips of Taiga -- now then, let's see what we can do to this big-breasted girl with audacious panties that are fully exposed.

"What is it, Sakura?"

From the other side of the corridor, a voice echoed coldly

"sis-, sister!”

the big breated girl who had her panties exposed stands up and runs away, hiding her body like a rabbit behind the girl who appeared. Taiga recognized that girl,

"......it's here......"

muttering with very low voice. From her entire small body, the scent of danger from a 1 ton tiger emanates. All reason seem to disappear from her eyes -- Taiga hates this person the most.

"What have we here. ......aah, Aisaka Taiga. You are Kitamura's friend, I believe. I,"

"......think"

The girl with waist-length flowing black hair, was cold and spoke rudely like a man, which did not match her good looks. Taiga knew her. It was the president of the student council.

The student council president work with Kitamura everyday, and often as cleaning volunteers, they walk alongside together, and Kitamura would smile happily without a word -- Taiga was bitterly jealous of that girl.

"You recognize me? ......well then, why? why are you bullying my younger sister? Can you give me a good explanation"

calmly, without showing even a trace of fear, with an indulgent smile, the obnoxious student council president asks Taiga.

"......your younger sister?"

"Ah, this is my younger sister, Kanou Sakura, a freshman. ......bullying an underclassman girl, as expected of the Palmtop Tiger, aren't we attacking an easy prey?"

The big breasted panties girl hide behind the president of the student council, her body trembled going "pu ru pu ru". Taiga points at her without hesitation,

"Hey, as the elder sister, you should be ashamed of that exhibitionist. Your younger sister was running in this corridor, and crashed into the blameless me, rather than apologizing to me she spouts some crazy words and crying as if I were the one at fault, and now hides behind you"

"Hey. ......Sakura. Is this true?"

The big breasted panties girl was startled, she grimaced, and then looked up at her elder sister gasping,

"mo... mo... more or less.... !"

as soon as she nodded, the top of her head was struck! Even Taiga felt a little sympathy seeing that merciless karate chop. With some uncertain steps, her back was pushed down in front of Taiga,

"Now, you've made me look bad! You should properly apologize! How long are you going to hide behind me!"

having been yelled at with such a resounding voice. Tears formed at the corners of her eyes as she cowered down and looked up hesitantly,

"s.. s.. s-sorry...... I'm very sorry......Aisaka-senpai......"

In front of Taiga she bowed down deeply. "Keh", and Taiga snorted through her nose losing some of her fury, brushing her hair up and decided to forgive her this time, she starts to turn away.

But,

"uhm... uhm.... no..., notebook...."

"......huh!?"

at the sound of the soft voice, Taiga turns back again and her eyes filled with murderous intent. Although the big breasted panties girl shivered with fright, she didn't hide behind her elder sister again, even though both her legs were shaking, she desperately reaches her hand out.

"uhm, uhm, the notebook......? Please return it! It's not mine! i... it's from someone important, it's our only connection! i.. i... i'll do anything~!"

however that desperation, strikes at Taiga's heart......no, it lit an inherent fire of fury.

"SH... SH.. SHUT UP! You, to what degree do you want to falsely accuse me!? I just forgot about giving this to you! You think I would want something like this!?"

"Not!"

Taking the notebook in her hands, Taiga violently throws the notebook towards the throat of the big breasted panties girl, hitting back like a butcher.

While trying to catch the notebook the big breasted panties girl fell down on her knees groaning painfully. "aaaah", hitting her elbow while the student council president looks on, Taiga turns around and starts to leave.

But just at that instant. Something jumped deliberately right into Taiga's sight.

On the cover of the notebook with the distinct 22.5 cm shoeprint in the hands of the big breasted pants girl, the owner's name was clearly written with a felt-tip pen. ------"1-A Tomiie Kota".

＊　＊　＊

”waaah~, today it's somewhat extravagant~! Ryu-chan, how much prawns are there?"

"3 pieces per person"

"yay~, yay~"

Having completed her makeup except for the lipstick, with a hot curler still attached to her brightly dyed hair, Ryuji's mother - Yasuko, wearing a pink camisole and Ryuji's old middle-school jersey (track) pants and her huge breasts swaying wildly.

The innocent child-like face happily holding the chopsticks, looked like a young girl with her makeup, with beautifully painted rosy pink glossy nails, her hair flowing over her smooth collarbone, highlighting her feminine charms with a sweet scent that emits from Yasuko's skin more suitable for her real age and her evening work.

"properly eat the vegetables too, ok? and also the shiso"

"tempura shiso, I loooo~ve it! Ryu-chan too, I loooo~ve!"

At the narrow and low dining table, like peeking through a sheer cloth the colorful vegetables can be seen as well as Ryuji's wonderful tempura all lined up. In the miso soup, there is tofu, daikon (radish/turnip), vegetables; the steamed rice mixed with five spices; and today's side dish, pickled eggplants --- grown in secret in the school's gardens. As for the tempura sauce, lemon juice, or grated daikon, or anything to suit the personal taste.

half past 6 in the evening, Takasu family living room. Sitting around the low dining table were Ryuji, Yasuko, and Taiga, ready to have their usual dinner.

"bon appetit", they all said together, Yasuko reaches over for the prawn, Ryuji brings the miso soup to his mouth. Taiga's chopsticks hovers over the prawns, but why is she hesitating,

"Hey, move your chopsticks"

Ryuji scowled. But Taiga just grimaced, without any retort, and just like that stopped moving.

"......what is it?"

"......what's the matter? Taiga-chan?"

Even though she was being asked by both mother and son Taiga remains seated rigidly. "......" keeping her mouth shut. The usual Taiga would have taken even Ryuji's share of the mains together when she extended her chopsticks. Yasuko is concerned, and puts down her chopsticks,

”I see... I see..., sorry ＊ Ya-chan absolutely looo~ves Taiga-chan~ ＊"

"huh"

swoosh, and Taiga was hugged tightly. she kisses "tsup tsup tsuuuup". Being buried between those huge breasts Taiga couldn't make a sound, before long, her small hands pushed painfully with a pitter-patter sound

"I can't breathe! I can't breathe!"

"Aaaahh......"

at the time she was released, she gasps for air and simultaneously collapses onto the seat futon (zabuton). After a little while, not wanting Ryuji and Yasuko to worry about her, she slowly straightens her body.

"......no.., nothing. actually, I just a little bit......don't really feel like eating anything"

"You don't have any appetite!?"

"That is just so~"

"......even me, even when I'm slightly ill, i would still have it! ......this, take this. and this too"

Taiga passes a prawn towards Yasuko, another towards Ryuji, and the other one left, after being dipped in the tempura sauce, she gingerly brings to her own small mouth like trying out the taste.

"Don't be unreasonable (don't force yourself to eat), are you really okay?"

taking a bite, Taiga nods her head while sprinkling salt, adding more. pauses and continues eating it as it is.

"......don't worry. I can eat this. delicious"

also taking in a mouthful of white rice.

"you should probably take back the prawn? you should savor it since you're able to eat, you will see shrimps on our dining table only once a year~"

"it's ok, after eating the vegetables I'm already good"

after eating one prawn, Taiga's appetite seem to have improved, as she also drinks the miso soup. And so Ryuji was relieved,

"Shiso can be considered medicine. You should take more"

The platter of mint was turned so that it faced Taiga. Taiga nods, and takes one piece to her mouth immediately. She seems to like it, taking another piece.

In the end, Taiga also eats the other vegetable tempura, the pickled vegetables, the miso soup, and also some rice (this is a very rare situation, normally she can easily finish three bowls), for the time being we have finished eating.

Yasuko also felt relieved after seeing that, and heads out to work taking the Chanel bag that she always treasured--some disaster would occur, several hours later.

"......Ryuji......I......may be dying......"

Ryuji turns his head upon hearing this shocking statement, it was already after 10 in the evening.

As usual they were relaxing after eating and having a good time, folding a cushion in half and spreading it, the two of them were carelessly lying flat down on the tatami mat watching television. Neither of them did anything, they begin to fall asleep.

"......I'm dying......"

"wh......what?"

Noticing Taiga behind Ryuji, she seemed to have sprawled down awkwardly, somewhat like toppling sideways holding her stomach, her complexion turned very pale. Although Taiga has always been very fair-skinned, her skin tone now was a tinge of pale beige, she was very pale. Ryuji hurriedly gets up, crawling over causing Taiga's hair to scatter on the tatami with his knees.

"How is it!? Is it a stomach-ache!?"

"i-.. it hurts... a... lot...."

"do you need to go to the toilet? can you stand? are you going to throw up?!"

"toilet...... I don't think the pain is that bad......"

Wheezing and coughing, she vomited, Taiga softly shivers. Traces of cold sweat form on her damp forehead, it was quite cold.

"Is it your Stomach!?"

"I-..., I don't know...... it just hurts..... here"

Around the navel of the dress which has a repeating cotton lace pattern which expands softly, she strokes that area with her small hand. Ryuji realized clearly, this is quite serious.

"w-, we should go to the hospital!"

Inside the birdcage placed in a corner of the living room, a disfigured parrot called inko-chan also chimed "that's right!" while nodding with the whites of its eyes bulging.

"oh yes, ambulance......must call the ambulance!"

"i-, i-, isn't that a bit exaggerated....?"

"but you can't walk, right!? aren't you dying!?"

"Calling an ambulance just for a stomach-ache......don't......I-... I can cope......uuugh~......"

Taiga strains her voice, and twists her body to try to endure the pain. It can't be helped---Ryuji quickly opened the phonebook, verifying that the nearby university hospital have night time emergency facilities, dials the phone while taking his wallet and the health insurance card and putting them in his pocket.

"Oh! use my insurance card!"

The trembling becomes more apparent. The health insurance card is taken out and inserted into the slanting back pocket, carrying the light body of the weary Taiga who was lying down. Taiga was silent, like a ventriloquist's doll being carried in the arms of Ryuji, her face pressed against his shoulders,

"......nngh......nnggh......"

while enduring the pain she moans softly.

Impatiently locking the door with the housekey, Ryuji rushes out from the front door even though he was only wearing his sandals. Making loud "kang kang" noise that rang on the iron stairs as he ran down, carrying Taiga to the main street to catch a taxi,

"Sorry, there's someone sick here! Would you mind letting us go ahead!?"

Jumping out in front of an older office worker who had just stopped a taxi, he pleads. Under the light that shines on Ryuji's evil-looking sanpaku eyes, the older man felt threatened, and dropped his bag out of instinctive fear, and takes one step back,

"thank you very much!"

Ryuji interpreted that as a "Yes", and slides in the open taxi door. Informing the name of the university hospital and screaming "hurry, this person is sick!" to the driver, who adjusted the rearview mirror and nodded many times. Understanding the circumstance, made him realize it was not a car-jacking.

"Taiga, hang in there! we're almost there!"

Taiga cannot even sit properly, instead she could only lie prone on Ryuji's lap, even now trembling due to the pain.

So pitiful--no matter how she had verbally abused him, or the violent treatment he received, They were kindred who ate meals out of the same pot. Taiga is really a girl after all. Ryuji can see that she was patiently enduring the pain, trying not to cry out loud. And so he brushes her long hair gently that has become disheveled.

Just what on earth is going on? Is it food poisoning, appendicitis, or is it some other worse disease?

"......dead......"

"id-, idiot! stop saying you're dead or dying! saying such words will only make things worse!"

"......you're wrong......it's not me....that fellow......"

maybe he is dead.

While lying on Ryuji's knee, Taiga was babbling incoherently. Maybe it was playing dead, that fellow, that black tomcat, or maybe it really is dead. Then perhaps, this is its curse.

"wh~.., what? what do you mean?"

"......uhm, freshman's, female......final memento, those words......that thing......after death, that relic, that maybe....oh"

"that freshman's, uhm......are you talking about the incident this morning?"

It was when Ryuji was in the middle of harvesting the shiso and eggplants when Taiga encountered that incident in the school building with the freshman girl. Ryuji heard about this when they were on their way home.

"I..... stepped on it at that time, that notebook......because it was too ominous, i didn't say a word......that-, that thing, was......[Tomiie Kota's] property......"

Can it be? (No way), Ryuji instinctively stares around the ear of Taiga who's facing down. He knew Tomiie Kota. He is a close junior of Kitamura, a freshman in the student council, and is Taiga's so-called "black tomcat"--they say misfortune will follow when a black cat crosses one's path. In Taiga's case, it was Tomiie Kota in particular, who is the black cat that brought about this misfortune. Every time Tomiie Kota appears before Taiga, some unbelievable misfortune seem to happen to Taiga.

Her lunch sandwich would be trampled. The canned coffee would fly out of the machine and eventually slam onto her head. When cutting the tail of a fried horse mackerel, it gets stuck onto her forehead, this can also be attributed to him; when she was was walking from school, she would get hit by a dropped eraser; sometimes soya milk would be sprayed onto her face -- it's because he is Kitamura's junior, and simply for this one reason that he is able to still survive, if not because of this, Taiga would have already personally delivered this insolent underclassman to hell.

Ryuji also knows about this very well. Those encounters with Taiga were probably also miserable and unfortunate occurrences for him. But then,

"the-, the-, therefore, why the hell did this curse......"

"He's dead......that fellow, is dead......soul in that notebook......I, stepped on that......?"

Taiga's body continued shivering weakly. Her fingers grasping Ryuji's kneecaps through the trousers felt icy-cold,

"......it keeps following......that fellow's, bad luck, through his spirit.....ugh......"

Taiga continued to moan, the sound of her suffering echoing in the silent taxi.

＊　＊　＊

"For nighttime emergency medical diagnosis and treatment, it can be troublesome unless you telephone first, don't you think?"

......at last, we're here. carrying Taiga, who was trembling, to the reception counter who murmured for the first time:

"th~, that being said......i'm sorry. and so..., uhm..., can we get this medical examination started?"

"What was that?"

The woman in a business attire with the strange thick makeup was a bit unnerved in front of Ryuji's scary face, carrying Taiga carefully and looking up. Taiga seemed to be already at death's door, could not respond to the situation,

"It seems to be a stomachache. She was already feeling ill before the meal, and it seems to have become very bad a few minutes after eating!"

"What did she eat-?"

"Tempura!"

"......Tempura!?"

Ha!

and, i heard a snort that sounded like a nasal laugh -- hopefully it was just my imagination. The woman tosses a sheet of paper forward from the counter,

"here, please fill this-"

and even though being told that, his arm doesn't move but remained holding onto Taiga. Ryuji cuts the woman off, carefully lays Taiga down on the sofa of the lobby. even though Taiga's eyes were closed, she doesn't lose consciousness, gritting her teeth to endure the pain with an expression of anguish. The fluorescent light were turned off, only small electric lamps dimly illuminated the spacious lobby. There were no sign of any other patients, and voices echoed strangely.

"pl-, pl-, please lend me a pen"

after a cold glare, a pen was rolled across the counter with the "cara cara" sound echoing.

in any case; name and address (the house number of the building next to Ryuji's home should be correct, right?), symptom, I scribbled it hurriedly,

"er-, uh, is the insurance card good by tomorrow?"

"please wait over there on the sofa-"

his question wasn't answered either, and the paper wasn't looked at also, the woman just casually tossed it into an unknown box at the side. What kind of treatment is this? he wanted to ask, but it seemed better to just obey that woman's instructions and wait. Ryuji went back to Taiga who moaned, and sat down beside her, but somehow, had an inexplicable idea.

this place, it's no different from the jungle.

......isn't it? Should he take her to another place before it's too late? That woman at the reception counter is certainly not a doctor or a nurse, but her symptoms are very dire, it's probably better to find out her condition now. Glancing quietly at the suffering Taiga, however, luck seemed to change in that moment of hesitation.

"Aisaka-san, please!"

A voice calls from the examination room, and soon that woman approaches us pushing a wheelchair with a clattering sound.

"Please ride in this-"

Taiga opened her eyes slightly, and reflexively twists her body and tries to escape as if sensing something foreboding, the woman quickly reaches across and with Ryuji's help, grasps the child and places her onto the wheelchair. The woman than pushed the wheelchair efficiently into the examination room. Ryuji hastily pursues after them.

This is the patient-, the woman announced immediately, and the open door of the examination room started closing automatically.

gaaa! just as the doors were closing, he grabbed onto Taiga's leg and faltered. Ignoring both the wheezing Ryuji and the silent Taiga, the woman calmly opens the door,

"Please, go in!"

Without warning, she pushes the wheelchair in and lets it go,

"aiyee!"

Taiga's careening wheelchair was caught with the foot of a slipper by a young man in a white coat -- why is his head shaven, this doctor. He examines Taiga's leg while smiling amiably,

"What seems to be the problem-? ah, this leg? Is it painful, if that's the case I can surely heal it quickly."

"that was caused by banging on that door just now! It's stomachache!"

If Ryuji didn't immediately say anything, the doctor would probably only examine the leg and send them home after. Ah, abdominal pain? how much (pain)? and the doctor puts on the stethoscope to listen to the stomach of Taiga.

But Taiga's bulky cotton lace clothes had too much frills piled up to the point of death (also known as Furi Furi one-piece virtue), seeing this, the doctor shakes his head, as if he cannot understand where to open it.

"hah! I give up. lie down on the examination table for a while-, put your head here-, yes, yes, that's it"

the wheelchair's brakes weren't engaged, Taiga trembled as she endured the pain struggling while slowly transferring to the examination table. The doctor only reads the medical chart without noticing anything else. Ryuji being flustered, tries to lend a hand to Taiga, but,

"Ah, are you with her? her relative-?"

"eh? uhm... no, a friend......"

Suddenly being asked by that doctor, Ryuji turned his head around, in that instant, Taiga fell off the swiveling wheelchair that slipped. And she hit the hard floor with a dull thumping sound.

"Oh! Ta-, Taiga!"

"......uh......"

Clinging onto the wobbling consultation seat, Taiga stands up with a dazed look, quietly rubbing her forehead. The doctor than jokes,

"aha ha ha ha ha~, what are you doing!? is that where it hurts~!? what's the~"

the doctor seem to jokingly place the stethoscope on the forehead, until he noticed the evil eyes of Ryuji who stared in utter amazement at this unbelievable scene.

"......you-, your face, isn't it scary~! can you go away for a little while so as not to distract me!? It's really scaring me~!"

"eh......bu~, but......"

"it's ok, it's ok! just wait over there!"

He was chased off up to the doorway of the examination room almost totally pushed out. The curtain is closed, the view of Taiga passes out of sight. But how can he leave that seemingly useless doctor and Taiga alone together? he regretfully chews on his fingernails,

"......"

"......"

looking around, an elementary schoolboy was sitting in the corner of the examination room. he has asthmatic spasm but still raises and opens his mouth widely to inhale some steam, arms crossed with a "Nobody else is allowed to fiddle with this" posture while tightly hugging the machine. His eyes were glazed over like dead fish slowly losing freshness -- perhaps, it's not only due to the illness that he is fatigued.

It was absolutely a mistake to have come here, realizing this now.

"Aaargh!"

Taiga's tearful voice echoed. Just like the scream of a bear caught in a trap.

"It's alright, it's alright, I'm just drawing a little blood! Ah, failed again. ......tch! what the shit!. ......this time for sure......still nothing, tch! can't find the vein, wait a minute,"

"Aaaah, aaahh, aaaaaaahhh~!"

"I'm just looking for the vein......tch! No, this is no good! switching to the other arm, this is also useless, tch! tch! shit!"

The sounds echoing in the consultation room were scarier than anything in the world. As the terrifying voice of Taiga came to a halt, Ryuji was left standing petrified. The tongue-click noise continues, making him want to cover his ears, but the fact was Taiga was brought here by himself. He cannot avert his eyes from this scary responsibility......well, let's stop this already, have to tell him to stop this. And then have to get her out and go to another place.

With that determination he opens the curtain,

"Ha! I got it... I got it! with this it shouldn't hurts so much anymore, once we can examine the blood we should be able to determine if there was infection inside the stomach, you can rest assured from this blood check-!"

The syringe is full of Taiga's somewhat strange looking dark colored blood. The doctor smiles proudly after such a difficult ordeal,

"there, just wait a little bit! here, take this as an apology for the pain caused!"

Taking out a candy from the pocket of the white coat, unwrapping it and dropping it in the mouth of Taiga which remains half-open without moving. Taiga grabs Ryuji's hand suddenly, and coughs out the candy. The candy rolls a bit in Ryuji's hand before becoming stuck. ......that's understandable, but, on the other hand, Ryuji was feeling troubled. If a person comes to the hospital with a painful stomach, why would you give them candy......

after all this, we were told, we have to go back to the sofa of the waiting room again for another 20 minutes. Taiga plops herself down and occasionally groans, and continues to shiver slightly and rubs circles on her stomach desperately. The inner side of her left arm was quickly bruising, absorbent cotton was taped to the inner side of her right arm, a seemingly impossible amount of blood seeping into it. Her eyes glazed over lifelessly, and her complexion became terribly pasty.

"......Taiga. Hey......"

"......"

There was no response. Her voice doesn't come out anymore either. Her lips were parched dry and cracked, but maybe because she also bit on them to endure the pain, that's why it is bleeding a bit. The truth was, she surely looked worse now then before coming to this place.

It can't be helped, but the cause of the stomach pain must be discovered, and it must be treated,

"uhm, ahem~, I'm not really sure!"

from behind, incoherent voices conversed idly.

With a sinking feeling, Ryuji looks back at that doctor standing behind him. In his hand was an intravenous bag that he was going to hang onto a metal support .

"that blood we drew just now, it won't be able to help us determine the cause of the stomachache!"

"wo~, wo~, won't be able......"

"but it will help us to determine that there is no inflammation of the appendix. On the other hand, this may be something that we can't just treat at an emergency ward!"

Huh! feeling dismayed at this time in the face of the smiling doctor , while discreetly keeping Taiga behind him, Ryuji desperately questioned the doctor.

"if it's not intestinal, then, could it be some women's issue, for example gynecological problems......"

"If that's the case, that would not be considered a health emergency, unfortunately! If you really want to know what is wrong, please come back during regular hours to consult a general practitioner, oh yes, as this is a university hospital, there is no referral, so it can be quite expensive!"

"so~, somehow could it be catarrh or...... those things are......"

"That-is-why~, she did not have diarrhea, right!? nor did she she throw up, right!? even though you have come to the emergency room, we were still unable to treat it! There is no bleeding in her stomach, and there is no symptom that warrants treatment at an emergency ward! Is it food poisoning, there doesn't seem to be any such acute symptoms! Neither is it constipation! and it doesn't seem to be gas! anyway, the only thing noticeable is that she is in pain but cannot elaborate what is the pain, so...this!"

and why do you seem to be so happy, or is it merely the night shifts causing you to have high emotional tension, the doctor just pointed at the intravenous drip. Picking up the readied tube, and as soon as the cap of the needle was removed,

"This is pain-killer! Ah, this is good, a needle was left in a while ago just in case something like this might happen. This child, her blood vessels are quite difficult to find~"

The cotton on the inner right arm of Taiga was peeled off. Blood was gradually seeping out......the needle on the rubber-like mouth still remains stuck. Eehhh......but Ryuji takes a few steps back, not able to do anything. The doctor works in front of Ryuji, with great skill and dexterity, adjusts the rate of the intravenous drip,

"when the drip runs out, call me!"

"......he~, here, leave the IV drip here......? this, in the lobby?"

"there will probably be other patients, therefore we must keep the examination room free. Because sometimes serious injuries do arrive"

"......that sounds terrible......"

"like ruptured intestine"

not really caring about accounts about injuries to internal organs, and nonchalantly divulging such findings, the doctor finishes by turning back to the examination room. This university hospital certainly has a reputation as a very advanced lifesaving institution, it is one of Japan's leading hospitals. It's only logical that such serious cases would be sent here.

However, I do get it, and Ryuji incidentally also came to an unusual understanding. An excellent doctor will surely be assigned to more urgent lifesaving situations, this young doctor with seemingly less skills might have been left behind here. Oh my, although this is just the imaginings of a selfish layman, judging by the suitability of that unnecessary examination~

"Taiga!?"

looking over suddenly, Ryuji shouted shrilly. Rashes were appearing all over the entire body of Taiga to which the painkiller was administered, especially from the inner arm where the needle of the IV drip is stuck. The hives can be seen spreading quickly, connecting together forming large masses of rashes,

"Oh, oh, OH......EMERGENCY! TAIGA! someone help!"

"......oou~, aaaargh......"

"Someone please come and help!"

Mouth gaping wide and wailing beside Ryuji, Taiga noticed the IV drip needle inserted in her arm for the first time.

"wh~, what~......can't breath.....whew~! this......wha~......ooow......whew~!"

"Taiga, hang in there! This is the drug to stop the pain!"

"......tch, stop... pain..., drug......I......"

"wheez wheez" sounds like from a high-pitched whistle were emanating from the throat of Taiga. Her body was twisted in pain. Her airway narrowed. The doctor and several nurses hurries over, looking at Taiga's face, and at that instant "bong!" and the eyelid can be seen swelling up,

"Oh, this is bad"

I, am allergic to pain-killers.

--these few words were squeaked out within Taiga's scant breath with great difficulty. Well then, is this an allergic reaction? Doctor, why didn't you first inquire about allergies? And, why was the intravenous drip administered without obtaining the patient's consent?

But Ryuji did not know yet. Of course Taiga did not know either. Neither did the nurses nor the doctor know. Already on the floor above, on this hospital's second floor, a new misery......no, the curse of the black cat had already begun to carve its way to bring more terror for Taiga.

(~80%~)

Toradora!:Spin-Off Legend of the Black Catboy of Misfortune

2009-12-09T14:49:32Z

RonnieCorny: /* Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune */

===Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune===

"...... d- d- d-, did you see it?"

"It's no use, the trees over there are obstructing...... a little more to the left"

"......h- h- h-, how?"

"It's no good, that tree is obstructing it this time. ......ah, darn! It's quite frustrating! Can we cut it all down!?"

--I may do it.

Takasu Ryuji struggled as he crouched down silently in order to drop the hooligan off his shoulders. The hooligan got down on the ground violently with both feet.

"Damn!"

He swore at the whole world, unleashing his frustration, He tore off an innocent leaf of a shiso plant in the lush flower bed. The mint's scent drifted in the hellish heat of the noon of midsummer.

"Oh forget it, it's okay, that's a wrap. ......aaaah, even though I took the effort to come to school during summer vacation, I can't get one clear view of Kitamura-kun in his club activities. I am extremely unlucky......Hey, why are you ignoring me when I'm feeling down!?"

As Ryuji crouched down to pick some shiso leaves, the hooligan, known as Aisaka Taiga, kicked him right down and into the middle of the buttocks with the toe of her shoes.

"Ow...... that hurts, you dumbass!"

"You stupid idiot! You impudent dog!"

Whack! And he got slapped in the mouth this time, then Ryuji's fierce eyes shone as he shouted back at Taiga without backing off one bit.

"Hit me or whatever you want to do, but I, these shiso, you can't stop me from taking them! These mints are FREE! I'm free to take them! Do you understand!?"

"Tch! Waitaminit! Spit! Gross!"

"Shut up! It's free, I'm free to take it. besides, mint is my favorite! You should be happy to be able to enjoy these in the delicious salad noodles and pickled tuna covered rice every day! Incidentally, here, it was me who planted the mint! On dry days I'm also the one who waters them, sending the pests to the afterlife was also me! Therefore I have every right to harvest these mints!"

"......"

"Nevermind that! Help me pick them if you understand! Ah... It's good that I remembered, last time I finished picking them all, I wasn't sure how soon they would grow again. So careless, so careless, to almost forget. And I don't usually come here when summer vacation begins...... but then, the shiso plants are strong, look at this lush growth!"

Happily-- totally forgetting the original purpose for coming to school, Ryuji became preoccupied with the shiso plants. Casually keeping one step apart, he didn't notice Taiga's eyes glaring at him.

Even with the violent like a wild carnivorous animal known as "palmtop tiger", in the face of the golden sun in the hot day, concentrating on the shiso harvesting, any thought of running by Ryuji was not to be found anymore. Instead Ryuji went "he he", laughing happily, occasionally smelling the fragrance of the crop going "mmm..." while narrowing his eyes and thinking, I wouldn't mind putting some of these shiso into a sachet for my wallet and mobile phone. Whether it was the demonic eyes or the scary features of the face, he looked like a hopeless addict picking some illegal weed that was secretly cultivated in the Hokkaido region., although he was just enjoying the feeling of having a miniature agricultural life with his small personal herb garden.

"Ah, that's right, Taiga!"

"......"

A smug smile and the usual cold silence was all he got. But Ryuji crawls over to Taiga on his knees from the mint plants without minding,

"In the flower bed over there, I have also planted eggplants and cucumber. Say, don't you want to take a look!? The seedlings grew and flowered before the closing ceremonies! Though I attempted last year, it was tragically caught by the gardening club and removed...... But this year!"

"Don't want to"

"Why. ......Hey, why are you so unkind to me? What is that strange look you're giving me?(Why are you looking at me like that?)"

"You are becoming more and more detestable! I knew I should have come on my own after all."

"Why is that!?"

In the first place, the reason why we came to school in the middle of summer vacation was to get the needed textbook which Taiga left in the locker. Although he wasn't asked particularly, but Ryuji, who was bored with a lot of free time, decided to accompany her.

As they passed through the school gate, they found the baseball club practicing. Taiga's crush, Kitamura, was there. Since the closing ceremony, Taiga has not seen Kitamura. Kitamura was of course busy with club activities and can be seen from a distance, so she would not like him to see her spying on him.

And so Ryuji and Taiga hid down beside the flowerbed at the side of the school building where the flowers grew thick, nestled between the sunflowers which swayed whenever they peeked. However, the huge weeds of the mid-summer was larger than the petite body of Taiga and blocked her view. So he let Taiga sit on his shoulder. For Taiga's sake, he showed some kindness. And then,

"You said I'm detestable, how am I detestable?!"

"There are lots including......such as your face, or such as your sweaty back. You, your entire shirt is drenched. Ah, that reminds me......"

Taiga puts her hand inside her own skirt, thinking about the close contact between her buttocks and Ryuji's shoulders earlier. Her eyes widened in shock, her small face twisting with disgust.

"Uh......ugh! My ass is wet with the sweat from your back! eeew! eeew!"

She stuck out her tongue and pretended to throw up. No matter how good-natured Ryuji is, it still felt insulting.

"Oh, don't you think it's also possible that my back is getting wet from the sweat of your butt as well!?"

"Not a chance!"

Instant denial, cutting off further talks Taiga turns around going, yuck! yuck! and starts to kick at the dirt with her foot like a cat after it uses a toilet. Sweat pours from Ryuji's skin, leaving spots on the ground.

"Ow! Ow! ......cough! Stop that you idiot! I was even kind enough to carry you on my shoulders!?"

"I'm now regretting that! What a disgusting sweaty dog! go away! get lost!"

"I will be using these shiso in tonight's tempura for our dinner, how can you say such a thing!? May lightning strike you down!"

"Ha! Lightning strikes can kill the germs! Whatever, I'm going to hurry and get that thing I forgot (textbook in the locker), as for you, you can stay here and bake in the heat!"

Like more lightning strikes hurting Ryuji's feelings further, Taiga's long hair fluttered as she turned towards the school building and ran off. Ryuji quietly rubs his sweat-soaked back, while shaking off the dirt on his hair like a dog, and biting his lip thinking. I knew it, she really is a terrible person.

--that witch, definitely, will have a horrible end.

Brushing her light colored hair with a tinge of gray, Taiga walked the deserted corridor towards the classroom on her own. Her exquisite profile as refined as delicate etched glass made her look like a French doll.

If she doesn't opens her mouth, rather, if not for "that" personality of hers, everyone would see Taiga as a very beautiful young lady. Her large eyes with light-colored pupils move relaxedly, looking like a kitten as it opens its mouth, the palmtop tiger lets out a lovely yawn. At times when no one is looking, Taiga does have a most captivating face.

However, the calm arch of Taiga's eyebrows suddenly raised steeply. From the other side of the corner, loud footsteps can be heard. It seems to be coming towards this place.

Disliking such a noisy person -- ignoring her own shortcomings, Taiga pouts with irritation at once. At this rate they may collide at the corner.

......or maybe not.

She did not try to change the route to an empty path nearby, this girl is called "the palmtop tiger" for a reason . Taiga absolutely walks where she wants to walk. Even if the other person is a guy from the sumo club or even if the other person is a teacher, she did not intend to change her way. She is walking properly, the other person is breaking the rules running, there is no reason to give way.

Resolutely sticking out her elbow sharply in out, Taiga lowered her head, continuing to plunge towards the prey which approached quickly. And sure enough, the moment she reached the corner,

"Ow... oh!"

"There it is...... kiyaaaah!"

Crash, the elbow connected bluntly. The other party who was knocked over screams loudly and lands on their butt, sitting in the hall due to the force of momentum. Standing firmly like a rock, before the eyes of the unperturbed Taiga, the schoolgirl's rather short skirt opened and was exposed fully. Both her pure white thighs and the seams of her light blue underpants were 100% exposed.

"......ah ah ah uuunggh~!"

Noticing the embarrassing position, she hurriedly sat down in the hall panicking and cried out again, pulling down on the hem of her skirt. And expressing "ouch" while pressing down her considerable chest that is best seen from the above. But by pressing down too strongly, did she know that it further enhanced the rounded shape to become clearly visible?

For some unknown reason (without any explanation), an even deeper cruelty and malevolence appeared in Taiga's eyes, looking down at this figure.

"......You, pay attention"

"Ah, s.. s... sor......"

Realizing that her panties had been exposed to just another girl, she lifted her eyes in that instant with a tinge of relief. However, with a blink of an eye, she realized that it was "the palmtop tiger" that stood arrogantly in front of her.

"......te... te... te..., teno...... eeek!"

Her round cheeks lost all color of blood in that instant.

Between Taiga's eyebrows, furrows looking like sawblades appeared.

Not even apologizing for knocking into me. Instead acting frightened like a victim. I hate this kind of person the most. Incidentally, I also hate those irresponsibly big breasts. ......without stating any apparent reason.

”......can't you even say "I'm sorry"? or is it, in your world, the "te... te... te..., teno..." acts as a form of apology? eh? what a barbarian!"

"o... o... o... urk!" (TL comment:the girl is trying to say "sorry")

"You're still not apologizing!"

To quickly settle this simple issue. Facing the frightened girl, Taiga ruthlessly stepped forward. Whether the other party is a guy or a girl makes no difference, Taiga's hostility to either was easily aroused. But at this moment, it felt like her foot was stepping on something.

"......?"

The girl who collided dropped her notebook, and it was under Taiga's foot. She notices it, and grimaced,

"Aaah...... Kota-kun's notebook...... the only symbol of our love......"

she cried out in despair. Tch, and Taiga clicked her tongue while, with some emphasis, picking it up with her hands, and playing with it in her hand without returning it,

"You're really good at acting as the victim......since having something so important stepped would make you cry, then you shouldn't have dropped it in the first place......."

Glaring through her glittering and brutal eyes, sizing up the girl from head to toe. Her nasal breath was rough with excitement going "ngggh nggggh", and blood rushes throughout fueling the serious malicious intent emanating from her body. "or-, or-, sor-", the female freshman cries tearfully, seemingly frozen in that spot.

a cruel smile twisted on the rosy lips of Taiga -- now then, let's see what we can do to this big-breasted girl with audacious panties that are fully exposed.

"What is it, Sakura?"

From the other side of the corridor, a voice echoed coldly

"sis-, sister!”

the big breated girl who had her panties exposed stands up and runs away, hiding her body like a rabbit behind the girl who appeared. Taiga recognized that girl,

"......it's here......"

muttering with very low voice. From her entire small body, the scent of danger from a 1 ton tiger emanates. All reason seem to disappear from her eyes -- Taiga hates this person the most.

"What have we here. ......aah, Aisaka Taiga. You are Kitamura's friend, I believe. I,"

"......think"

The girl with waist-length flowing black hair, was cold and spoke rudely like a man, which did not match her good looks. Taiga knew her. It was the president of the student council.

The student council president work with Kitamura everyday, and often as cleaning volunteers, they walk alongside together, and Kitamura would smile happily without a word -- Taiga was bitterly jealous of that girl.

"You recognize me? ......well then, why? why are you bullying my younger sister? Can you give me a good explanation"

calmly, without showing even a trace of fear, with an indulgent smile, the obnoxious student council president asks Taiga.

"......your younger sister?"

"Ah, this is my younger sister, Kanou Sakura, a freshman. ......bullying an underclassman girl, as expected of the Palmtop Tiger, aren't we attacking an easy prey?"

The big breasted panties girl hide behind the president of the student council, her body trembled going "pu ru pu ru". Taiga points at her without hesitation,

"Hey, as the elder sister, you should be ashamed of that exhibitionist. Your younger sister was running in this corridor, and crashed into the blameless me, rather than apologizing to me she spouts some crazy words and crying as if I were the one at fault, and now hides behind you"

"Hey. ......Sakura. Is this true?"

The big breasted panties girl was startled, she grimaced, and then looked up at her elder sister gasping,

"mo... mo... more or less.... !"

as soon as she nodded, the top of her head was struck! Even Taiga felt a little sympathy seeing that merciless karate chop. With some uncertain steps, her back was pushed down in front of Taiga,

"Now, you've made me look bad! You should properly apologize! How long are you going to hide behind me!"

having been yelled at with such a resounding voice. Tears formed at the corners of her eyes as she cowered down and looked up hesitantly,

"s.. s.. s-sorry...... I'm very sorry......Aisaka-senpai......"

In front of Taiga she bowed down deeply. "Keh", and Taiga snorted through her nose losing some of her fury, brushing her hair up and decided to forgive her this time, she starts to turn away.

But,

"uhm... uhm.... no..., notebook...."

"......huh!?"

at the sound of the soft voice, Taiga turns back again and her eyes filled with murderous intent. Although the big breasted panties girl shivered with fright, she didn't hide behind her elder sister again, even though both her legs were shaking, she desperately reaches her hand out.

"uhm, uhm, the notebook......? Please return it! It's not mine! i... it's from someone important, it's our only connection! i.. i... i'll do anything~!"

however that desperation, strikes at Taiga's heart......no, it lit an inherent fire of fury.

"SH... SH.. SHUT UP! You, to what degree do you want to falsely accuse me!? I just forgot about giving this to you! You think I would want something like this!?"

"Not!"

Taking the notebook in her hands, Taiga violently throws the notebook towards the throat of the big breasted panties girl, hitting back like a butcher.

While trying to catch the notebook the big breasted panties girl fell down on her knees groaning painfully. "aaaah", hitting her elbow while the student council president looks on, Taiga turns around and starts to leave.

But just at that instant. Something jumped deliberately right into Taiga's sight.

On the cover of the notebook with the distinct 22.5 cm shoeprint in the hands of the big breasted pants girl, the owner's name was clearly written with a felt-tip pen. ------"1-A Tomiie Kota".

＊　＊　＊

”waaah~, today it's somewhat extravagant~! Ryu-chan, how much prawns are there?"

"3 pieces per person"

"yay~, yay~"

Having completed her makeup except for the lipstick, with a hot curler still attached to her brightly dyed hair, Ryuji's mother - Yasuko, wearing a pink camisole and Ryuji's old middle-school jersey (track) pants and her huge breasts swaying wildly.

The innocent child-like face happily holding the chopsticks, looked like a young girl with her makeup, with beautifully painted rosy pink glossy nails, her hair flowing over her smooth collarbone, highlighting her feminine charms with a sweet scent that emits from Yasuko's skin more suitable for her real age and her evening work.

"properly eat the vegetables too, ok? and also the shiso"

"tempura shiso, I loooo~ve it! Ryu-chan too, I loooo~ve!"

At the narrow and low dining table, like peeking through a sheer cloth the colorful vegetables can be seen as well as Ryuji's wonderful tempura all lined up. In the miso soup, there is tofu, daikon (radish/turnip), vegetables; the steamed rice mixed with five spices; and today's side dish, pickled eggplants --- grown in secret in the school's gardens. As for the tempura sauce, lemon juice, or grated daikon, or anything to suit the personal taste.

half past 6 in the evening, Takasu family living room. Sitting around the low dining table were Ryuji, Yasuko, and Taiga, ready to have their usual dinner.

"bon appetit", they all said together, Yasuko reaches over for the prawn, Ryuji brings the miso soup to his mouth. Taiga's chopsticks hovers over the prawns, but why is she hesitating,

"Hey, move your chopsticks"

Ryuji scowled. But Taiga just grimaced, without any retort, and just like that stopped moving.

"......what is it?"

"......what's the matter? Taiga-chan?"

Even though she was being asked by both mother and son Taiga remains seated rigidly. "......" keeping her mouth shut. The usual Taiga would have taken even Ryuji's share of the mains together when she extended her chopsticks. Yasuko is concerned, and puts down her chopsticks,

”I see... I see..., sorry ＊ Ya-chan absolutely looo~ves Taiga-chan~ ＊"

"huh"

swoosh, and Taiga was hugged tightly. she kisses "tsup tsup tsuuuup". Being buried between those huge breasts Taiga couldn't make a sound, before long, her small hands pushed painfully with a pitter-patter sound

"I can't breathe! I can't breathe!"

"Aaaahh......"

at the time she was released, she gasps for air and simultaneously collapses onto the seat futon (zabuton). After a little while, not wanting Ryuji and Yasuko to worry about her, she slowly straightens her body.

"......no.., nothing. actually, I just a little bit......don't really feel like eating anything"

"You don't have any appetite!?"

"That is just so~"

"......even me, even when I'm slightly ill, i would still have it! ......this, take this. and this too"

Taiga passes a prawn towards Yasuko, another towards Ryuji, and the other one left, after being dipped in the tempura sauce, she gingerly brings to her own small mouth like trying out the taste.

"Don't be unreasonable (don't force yourself to eat), are you really okay?"

taking a bite, Taiga nods her head while sprinkling salt, adding more. pauses and continues eating it as it is.

"......don't worry. I can eat this. delicious"

also taking in a mouthful of white rice.

"you should probably take back the prawn? you should savor it since you're able to eat, you will see shrimps on our dining table only once a year~"

"it's ok, after eating the vegetables I'm already good"

after eating one prawn, Taiga's appetite seem to have improved, as she also drinks the miso soup. And so Ryuji was relieved,

"Shiso can be considered medicine. You should take more"

The platter of mint was turned so that it faced Taiga. Taiga nods, and takes one piece to her mouth immediately. She seems to like it, taking another piece.

In the end, Taiga also eats the other vegetable tempura, the pickled vegetables, the miso soup, and also some rice (this is a very rare situation, normally she can easily finish three bowls), for the time being we have finished eating.

Yasuko also felt relieved after seeing that, and heads out to work taking the Chanel bag that she always treasured--some disaster would occur, several hours later.

"......Ryuji......I......may be dying......"

Ryuji turns his head upon hearing this shocking statement, it was already after 10 in the evening.

As usual they were relaxing after eating and having a good time, folding a cushion in half and spreading it, the two of them were carelessly lying flat down on the tatami mat watching television. Neither of them did anything, they begin to fall asleep.

"......I'm dying......"

"wh......what?"

Noticing Taiga behind Ryuji, she seemed to have sprawled down awkwardly, somewhat like toppling sideways holding her stomach, her complexion turned very pale. Although Taiga has always been very fair-skinned, her skin tone now was a tinge of pale beige, she was very pale. Ryuji hurriedly gets up, crawling over causing Taiga's hair to scatter on the tatami with his knees.

"How is it!? Is it a stomach-ache!?"

"i-.. it hurts... a... lot...."

"do you need to go to the toilet? can you stand? are you going to throw up?!"

"toilet...... I don't think the pain is that bad......"

Wheezing and coughing, she vomited, Taiga softly shivers. Traces of cold sweat form on her damp forehead, it was quite cold.

"Is it your Stomach!?"

"I-..., I don't know...... it just hurts..... here"

Around the navel of the dress which has a repeating cotton lace pattern which expands softly, she strokes that area with her small hand. Ryuji realized clearly, this is quite serious.

"w-, we should go to the hospital!"

Inside the birdcage placed in a corner of the living room, a disfigured parrot called inko-chan also chimed "that's right!" while nodding with the whites of its eyes bulging.

"oh yes, ambulance......must call the ambulance!"

"i-, i-, isn't that a bit exaggerated....?"

"but you can't walk, right!? aren't you dying!?"

"Calling an ambulance just for a stomach-ache......don't......I-... I can cope......uuugh~......"

Taiga strains her voice, and twists her body to try to endure the pain. It can't be helped---Ryuji quickly opened the phonebook, verifying that the nearby university hospital have night time emergency facilities, dials the phone while taking his wallet and the health insurance card and putting them in his pocket.

"Oh! use my insurance card!"

The trembling becomes more apparent. The health insurance card is taken out and inserted into the slanting back pocket, carrying the light body of the weary Taiga who was lying down. Taiga was silent, like a ventriloquist's doll being carried in the arms of Ryuji, her face pressed against his shoulders,

"......nngh......nnggh......"

while enduring the pain she moans softly.

Impatiently locking the door with the housekey, Ryuji rushes out from the front door even though he was only wearing his sandals. Making loud "kang kang" noise that rang on the iron stairs as he ran down, carrying Taiga to the main street to catch a taxi,

"Sorry, there's someone sick here! Would you mind letting us go ahead!?"

Jumping out in front of an older office worker who had just stopped a taxi, he pleads. Under the light that shines on Ryuji's evil-looking sanpaku eyes, the older man felt threatened, and dropped his bag out of instinctive fear, and takes one step back,

"thank you very much!"

Ryuji interpreted that as a "Yes", and slides in the open taxi door. Informing the name of the university hospital and screaming "hurry, this person is sick!" to the driver, who adjusted the rearview mirror and nodded many times. Understanding the circumstance, made him realize it was not a car-jacking.

"Taiga, hang in there! we're almost there!"

Taiga cannot even sit properly, instead she could only lie prone on Ryuji's lap, even now trembling due to the pain.

So pitiful--no matter how she had verbally abused him, or the violent treatment he received, They were kindred who ate meals out of the same pot. Taiga is really a girl after all. Ryuji can see that she was patiently enduring the pain, trying not to cry out loud. And so he brushes her long hair gently that has become disheveled.

Just what on earth is going on? Is it food poisoning, appendicitis, or is it some other worse disease?

"......dead......"

"id-, idiot! stop saying you're dead or dying! saying such words will only make things worse!"

"......you're wrong......it's not me....that fellow......"

maybe he is dead.

While lying on Ryuji's knee, Taiga was babbling incoherently. Maybe it was playing dead, that fellow, that black tomcat, or maybe it really is dead. Then perhaps, this is its curse.

"wh~.., what? what do you mean?"

"......uhm, freshman's, female......final memento, those words......that thing......after death, that relic, that maybe....oh"

"that freshman's, uhm......are you talking about the incident this morning?"

It was when Ryuji was in the middle of harvesting the shiso and eggplants when Taiga encountered that incident in the school building with the freshman girl. Ryuji heard about this when they were on their way home.

"I..... stepped on it at that time, that notebook......because it was too ominous, i didn't say a word......that-, that thing, was......[Tomiie Kota's] property......"

Can it be? (No way), Ryuji instinctively stares around the ear of Taiga who's facing down. He knew Tomiie Kota. He is a close junior of Kitamura, a freshman in the student council, and is Taiga's so-called "black tomcat"--they say misfortune will follow when a black cat crosses one's path. In Taiga's case, it was Tomiie Kota in particular, who is the black cat that brought about this misfortune. Every time Tomiie Kota appears before Taiga, some unbelievable misfortune seem to happen to Taiga.

Her lunch sandwich would be trampled. The canned coffee would fly out of the machine and eventually slam onto her head. When cutting the tail of a fried horse mackerel, it gets stuck onto her forehead, this can also be attributed to him; when she was was walking from school, she would get hit by a dropped eraser; sometimes soya milk would be sprayed onto her face -- it's because he is Kitamura's junior, and simply for this one reason that he is able to still survive, if not because of this, Taiga would have already personally delivered this insolent underclassman to hell.

Ryuji also knows about this very well. Those encounters with Taiga were probably also miserable and unfortunate occurrences for him. But then,

"the-, the-, therefore, why the hell did this curse......"

"He's dead......that fellow, is dead......soul in that notebook......I, stepped on that......?"

Taiga's body continued shivering weakly. Her fingers grasping Ryuji's kneecaps through the trousers felt icy-cold,

"......it keeps following......that fellow's, bad luck, through his spirit.....ugh......"

Taiga continued to moan, the sound of her suffering echoing in the silent taxi.

＊　＊　＊

"For nighttime emergency medical diagnosis and treatment, it can be troublesome unless you telephone first, don't you think?"

......at last, we're here. carrying Taiga, who was trembling, to the reception counter who murmured for the first time:

"th~, that being said......i'm sorry. and so..., uhm..., can we get this medical examination started?"

"What was that?"

The woman in a business attire with the strange thick makeup was a bit unnerved in front of Ryuji's scary face, carrying Taiga carefully and looking up. Taiga seemed to be already at death's door, could not respond to the situation,

"It seems to be a stomachache. She was already feeling ill before the meal, and it seems to have become very bad a few minutes after eating!"

"What did she eat-?"

"Tempura!"

"......Tempura!?"

Ha!

and, i heard a snort that sounded like a nasal laugh -- hopefully it was just my imagination. The woman tosses a sheet of paper forward from the counter,

"here, please fill this-"

and even though being told that, his arm doesn't move but remained holding onto Taiga. Ryuji cuts the woman off, carefully lays Taiga down on the sofa of the lobby. even though Taiga's eyes were closed, she doesn't lose consciousness, gritting her teeth to endure the pain with an expression of anguish. The fluorescent light were turned off, only small electric lamps dimly illuminated the spacious lobby. There were no sign of any other patients, and voices echoed strangely.

"pl-, pl-, please lend me a pen"

after a cold glare, a pen was rolled across the counter with the "cara cara" sound echoing.

in any case; name and address (the house number of the building next to Ryuji's home should be correct, right?), symptom, I scribbled it hurriedly,

"er-, uh, is the insurance card good by tomorrow?"

"please wait over there on the sofa-"

his question wasn't answered either, and the paper wasn't looked at also, the woman just casually tossed it into an unknown box at the side. What kind of treatment is this? he wanted to ask, but it seemed better to just obey that woman's instructions and wait. Ryuji went back to Taiga who moaned, and sat down beside her, but somehow, had an inexplicable idea.

this place, it's no different from the jungle.

......isn't it? Should he take her to another place before it's too late? That woman at the reception counter is certainly not a doctor or a nurse, but her symptoms are very dire, it's probably better to find out her condition now. Glancing quietly at the suffering Taiga, however, luck seemed to change in that moment of hesitation.

"Aisaka-san, please!"

A voice calls from the examination room, and soon that woman approaches us pushing a wheelchair with a clattering sound.

"Please ride in this-"

Taiga opened her eyes slightly, and reflexively twists her body and tries to escape as if sensing something foreboding, the woman quickly reaches across and with Ryuji's help, grasps the child and places her onto the wheelchair. The woman than pushed the wheelchair efficiently into the examination room. Ryuji hastily pursues after them.

This is the patient-, the woman announced immediately, and the open door of the examination room started closing automatically.

gaaa! just as the doors were closing, he grabbed onto Taiga's leg and faltered. Ignoring both the wheezing Ryuji and the silent Taiga, the woman calmly opens the door,

"Please, go in!"

Without warning, she pushes the wheelchair in and lets it go,

"aiyee!"

Taiga's careening wheelchair was caught with the foot of a slipper by a young man in a white coat -- why is his head shaven, this doctor. He examines Taiga's leg while smiling amiably,

"What seems to be the problem-? ah, this leg? Is it painful, if that's the case I can surely heal it quickly."

"that was caused by banging on that door just now! It's stomachache!"

If Ryuji didn't immediately say anything, the doctor would probably only examine the leg and send them home after. Ah, abdominal pain? how much (pain)? and the doctor puts on the stethoscope to listen to the stomach of Taiga.

But Taiga's bulky cotton lace clothes had too much frills piled up to the point of death (also known as Furi Furi one-piece virtue), seeing this, the doctor shakes his head, as if he cannot understand where to open it.

"hah! I give up. lie down on the examination table for a while-, put your head here-, yes, yes, that's it"

the wheelchair's brakes weren't engaged, Taiga trembled as she endured the pain struggling while slowly transferring to the examination table. The doctor only reads the medical chart without noticing anything else. Ryuji being flustered, tries to lend a hand to Taiga, but,

"Ah, are you with her? her relative-?"

"eh? uhm... no, a friend......"

Suddenly being asked by that doctor, Ryuji turned his head around, in that instant, Taiga fell off the swiveling wheelchair that slipped. And she hit the hard floor with a dull thumping sound.

"Oh! Ta-, Taiga!"

"......uh......"

Clinging onto the wobbling consultation seat, Taiga stands up with a dazed look, quietly rubbing her forehead. The doctor than jokes,

"aha ha ha ha ha~, what are you doing!? is that where it hurts~!? what's the~"

the doctor seem to jokingly place the stethoscope on the forehead, until he noticed the evil eyes of Ryuji who stared in utter amazement at this unbelievable scene.

"......you-, your face, isn't it scary~! can you go away for a little while so as not to distract me!? It's really scaring me~!"

"eh......bu~, but......"

"it's ok, it's ok! just wait over there!"

He was chased off up to the doorway of the examination room almost totally pushed out. The curtain is closed, the view of Taiga passes out of sight. But how can he leave that seemingly useless doctor and Taiga alone together? he regretfully chews on his fingernails,

"......"

"......"

looking around, an elementary schoolboy was sitting in the corner of the examination room. he has asthmatic spasm but still raises and opens his mouth widely to inhale some steam, arms crossed with a "Nobody else is allowed to fiddle with this" posture while tightly hugging the machine. His eyes were glazed over like dead fish slowly losing freshness -- perhaps, it's not only due to the illness that he is fatigued.

It was absolutely a mistake to have come here, realizing this now.

"Aaargh!"

Taiga's tearful voice echoed. Just like the scream of a bear caught in a trap.

"It's alright, it's alright, I'm just drawing a little blood! Ah, failed again. ......tch! what the shit!. ......this time for sure......still nothing, tch! can't find the vein, wait a minute,"

"Aaaah, aaahh, aaaaaaahhh~!"

"I'm just looking for the vein......tch! No, this is no good! switching to the other arm, this is also useless, tch! tch! shit!"

The sounds echoing in the consultation room were scarier than anything in the world. As the terrifying voice of Taiga came to a halt, Ryuji was left standing petrified. The tongue-click noise continues, making him want to cover his ears, but the fact was Taiga was brought here by himself. He cannot avert his eyes from this scary responsibility......well, let's stop this already, have to tell him to stop this. And then have to get her out and go to another place.

With that determination he opens the curtain,

"Ha! I got it... I got it! with this it shouldn't hurts so much anymore, once we can examine the blood we should be able to determine if there was infection inside the stomach, you can rest assured from this blood check-!"

The syringe is full of Taiga's somewhat strange looking dark colored blood. The doctor smiles proudly after such a difficult ordeal,

"there, just wait a little bit! here, take this as an apology for the pain caused!"

Taking out a candy from the pocket of the white coat, unwrapping it and dropping it in the mouth of Taiga which remains half-open without moving. Taiga grabs Ryuji's hand suddenly, and coughs out the candy. The candy rolls a bit in Ryuji's hand before becoming stuck. ......that's understandable, but, on the other hand, Ryuji was feeling troubled. If a person comes to the hospital with a painful stomach, why would you give them candy......

after all this, we were told, we have to go back to the sofa of the waiting room again for another 20 minutes. Taiga plops herself down and occasionally groans, and continues to shiver slightly and rubs circles on her stomach desperately. The inner side of her left arm was quickly bruising, absorbent cotton was taped to the inner side of her right arm, a seemingly impossible amount of blood seeping into it. Her eyes glazed over lifelessly, and her complexion became terribly pasty.

"......Taiga. Hey......"

"......"

There was no response. Her voice doesn't come out anymore either. Her lips were parched dry and cracked, but maybe because she also bit on them to endure the pain, that's why it is bleeding a bit. The truth was, she surely looked worse now then before coming to this place.

It can't be helped, but the cause of the stomach pain must be discovered, and it must be treated,

"uhm, ahem~, I'm not really sure!"

from behind, incoherent voices conversed idly.

With a sinking feeling, Ryuji looks back at that doctor standing behind him. In his hand was an intravenous bag that he was going to hang onto a metal support .

"that blood we drew just now, it won't be able to help us determine the cause of the stomachache!"

"wo~, wo~, won't be able......"

"but it will help us to determine that there is no inflammation of the appendix. On the other hand, this may be something that we can't just treat at an emergency ward!"

Huh! feeling dismayed at this time in the face of the smiling doctor , while discreetly keeping Taiga behind him, Ryuji desperately questioned the doctor.

"if it's not intestinal, then, could it be some women's issue, for example gynecological problems......"

"If that's the case, that would not be considered a health emergency, unfortunately! If you really want to know what is wrong, please come back during regular hours to consult a general practitioner, oh yes, as this is a university hospital, there is no referral, so it can be quite expensive!"

"so~, somehow could it be catarrh or...... those things are......"

"That-is-why~, she did not have diarrhea, right!? nor did she she throw up, right!? even though you have come to the emergency room, we were still unable to treat it! There is no bleeding in her stomach, and there is no symptom that warrants treatment at an emergency ward! Is it food poisoning, there doesn't seem to be any such acute symptoms! Neither is it constipation! and it doesn't seem to be gas! anyway, the only thing noticeable is that she is in pain but cannot elaborate what is the pain, so...this!"

and why do you seem to be so happy, or is it merely the night shifts causing you to have high emotional tension, the doctor just pointed at the intravenous drip. Picking up the readied tube, and as soon as the cap of the needle was removed,

"This is pain-killer! Ah, this is good, a needle was left in a while ago just in case something like this might happen. This child, her blood vessels are quite difficult to find~"

The cotton on the inner right arm of Taiga was peeled off. Blood was gradually seeping out......the needle on the rubber-like mouth still remains stuck. Eehhh......but Ryuji takes a few steps back, not able to do anything. The doctor works in front of Ryuji, with great skill and dexterity, adjusts the rate of the intravenous drip,

"when the drip runs out, call me!"

"......he~, here, leave the IV drip here......? this, in the lobby?"

"there will probably be other patients, therefore we must keep the examination room free. Because sometimes serious injuries do arrive"

"......that sounds terrible......"

"like ruptured intestine"

not really caring about accounts about injuries to internal organs, and nonchalantly divulging such findings, the doctor finishes by turning back to the examination room. This university hospital certainly has a reputation as a very advanced lifesaving institution, it is one of Japan's leading hospitals. However, it seems to be incredibly modern for a hospital in the bushes.

However, I do get it, and Ryuji incidentally also came to an unusual understanding. An excellent doctor will surely be assigned to more urgent lifesaving situations, this young doctor with seemingly less skills might have been left behind here. Oh my, although this is just the imaginings of a selfish layman, judging by the suitability of that unnecessary examination~

"Taiga!?"

looking over suddenly, Ryuji shouted shrilly. Rashes were appearing all over the entire body of Taiga to which the painkiller was administered, especially from the inner arm where the needle of the IV drip is stuck. The hives can be seen spreading quickly, connecting together forming large masses of rashes,

"Oh, oh, OH......EMERGENCY! TAIGA! someone help!"

"......oou~, aaaargh......"

"Someone please come and help!"

Mouth gaping wide and wailing beside Ryuji, Taiga noticed the IV drip needle inserted in her arm for the first time.

"wh~, what~......can't breath.....whew~! this......wha~......ooow......whew~!"

"Taiga, hang in there! This is the drug to stop the pain!"

"......tch, stop... pain..., drug......I......"

"wheez wheez" sounds like from a high-pitched whistle were emanating from the throat of Taiga. Her body was twisted in pain. Her airway narrowed. The doctor and several nurses hurries over, looking at Taiga's face, and at that instant "bong!" and the eyelid can be seen swelling up,

"Oh, this is bad"

I, am allergic to pain-killers.

--these few words were squeaked out within Taiga's scant breath with great difficulty. Well then, is this an allergic reaction? Doctor, why didn't you first inquire about allergies? And, why was the intravenous drip administered without obtaining the patient's consent?

But Ryuji did not know yet. Of course Taiga did not know either. Neither did the nurses nor the doctor know. Already on the floor above, on this hospital's second floor, a new misery......no, the curse of the black cat had already begun to carve its way to bring more terror for Taiga.

(~80%~)

Toradora!:Spin-Off Legend of the Black Catboy of Misfortune

2009-12-09T10:14:04Z

RonnieCorny: /* Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune */

===Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune===

"...... d- d- d-, did you see it?"

"It's no use, the trees over there are obstructing...... a little more to the left"

"......h- h- h-, how?"

"It's no good, that tree is obstructing it this time. ......ah, darn! It's quite frustrating! Can we cut it all down!?"

--I may do it.

Takasu Ryuji struggled as he crouched down silently in order to drop the hooligan off his shoulders. The hooligan got down on the ground violently with both feet.

"Damn!"

He swore at the whole world, unleashing his frustration, He tore off an innocent leaf of a shiso plant in the lush flower bed. The mint's scent drifted in the hellish heat of the noon of midsummer.

"Oh forget it, it's okay, that's a wrap. ......aaaah, even though I took the effort to come to school during summer vacation, I can't get one clear view of Kitamura-kun in his club activities. I am extremely unlucky......Hey, why are you ignoring me when I'm feeling down!?"

As Ryuji crouched down to pick some shiso leaves, the hooligan, known as Aisaka Taiga, kicked him right down and into the middle of the buttocks with the toe of her shoes.

"Ow...... that hurts, you dumbass!"

"You stupid idiot! You impudent dog!"

Whack! And he got slapped in the mouth this time, then Ryuji's fierce eyes shone as he shouted back at Taiga without backing off one bit.

"Hit me or whatever you want to do, but I, these shiso, you can't stop me from taking them! These mints are FREE! I'm free to take them! Do you understand!?"

"Tch! Waitaminit! Spit! Gross!"

"Shut up! It's free, I'm free to take it. besides, mint is my favorite! You should be happy to be able to enjoy these in the delicious salad noodles and pickled tuna covered rice every day! Incidentally, here, it was me who planted the mint! On dry days I'm also the one who waters them, sending the pests to the afterlife was also me! Therefore I have every right to harvest these mints!"

"......"

"Nevermind that! Help me pick them if you understand! Ah... It's good that I remembered, last time I finished picking them all, I wasn't sure how soon they would grow again. So careless, so careless, to almost forget. And I don't usually come here when summer vacation begins...... but then, the shiso plants are strong, look at this lush growth!"

Happily-- totally forgetting the original purpose for coming to school, Ryuji became preoccupied with the shiso plants. Casually keeping one step apart, he didn't notice Taiga's eyes glaring at him.

Even with the violent like a wild carnivorous animal known as "palmtop tiger", in the face of the golden sun in the hot day, concentrating on the shiso harvesting, any thought of running by Ryuji was not to be found anymore. Instead Ryuji went "he he", laughing happily, occasionally smelling the fragrance of the crop going "mmm..." while narrowing his eyes and thinking, I wouldn't mind putting some of these shiso into a sachet for my wallet and mobile phone. Whether it was the demonic eyes or the scary features of the face, he looked like a hopeless addict picking some illegal weed that was secretly cultivated in the Hokkaido region., although he was just enjoying the feeling of having a miniature agricultural life with his small personal herb garden.

"Ah, that's right, Taiga!"

"......"

A smug smile and the usual cold silence was all he got. But Ryuji crawls over to Taiga on his knees from the mint plants without minding,

"In the flower bed over there, I have also planted eggplants and cucumber. Say, don't you want to take a look!? The seedlings grew and flowered before the closing ceremonies! Though I attempted last year, it was tragically caught by the gardening club and removed...... But this year!"

"Don't want to"

"Why. ......Hey, why are you so unkind to me? What is that strange look you're giving me?(Why are you looking at me like that?)"

"You are becoming more and more detestable! I knew I should have come on my own after all."

"Why is that!?"

In the first place, the reason why we came to school in the middle of summer vacation was to get the needed textbook which Taiga left in the locker. Although he wasn't asked particularly, but Ryuji, who was bored with a lot of free time, decided to accompany her.

As they passed through the school gate, they found the baseball club practicing. Taiga's crush, Kitamura, was there. Since the closing ceremony, Taiga has not seen Kitamura. Kitamura was of course busy with club activities and can be seen from a distance, so she would not like him to see her spying on him.

And so Ryuji and Taiga hid down beside the flowerbed at the side of the school building where the flowers grew thick, nestled between the sunflowers which swayed whenever they peeked. However, the huge weeds of the mid-summer was larger than the petite body of Taiga and blocked her view. So he let Taiga sit on his shoulder. For Taiga's sake, he showed some kindness. And then,

"You said I'm detestable, how am I detestable?!"

"There are lots including......such as your face, or such as your sweaty back. You, your entire shirt is drenched. Ah, that reminds me......"

Taiga puts her hand inside her own skirt, thinking about the close contact between her buttocks and Ryuji's shoulders earlier. Her eyes widened in shock, her small face twisting with disgust.

"Uh......ugh! My ass is wet with the sweat from your back! eeew! eeew!"

She stuck out her tongue and pretended to throw up. No matter how good-natured Ryuji is, it still felt insulting.

"Oh, don't you think it's also possible that my back is getting wet from the sweat of your butt as well!?"

"Not a chance!"

Instant denial, cutting off further talks Taiga turns around going, yuck! yuck! and starts to kick at the dirt with her foot like a cat after it uses a toilet. Sweat pours from Ryuji's skin, leaving spots on the ground.

"Ow! Ow! ......cough! Stop that you idiot! I was even kind enough to carry you on my shoulders!?"

"I'm now regretting that! What a disgusting sweaty dog! go away! get lost!"

"I will be using these shiso in tonight's tempura for our dinner, how can you say such a thing!? May lightning strike you down!"

"Ha! Lightning strikes can kill the germs! Whatever, I'm going to hurry and get that thing I forgot (textbook in the locker), as for you, you can stay here and bake in the heat!"

Like more lightning strikes hurting Ryuji's feelings further, Taiga's long hair fluttered as she turned towards the school building and ran off. Ryuji quietly rubs his sweat-soaked back, while shaking off the dirt on his hair like a dog, and biting his lip thinking. I knew it, she really is a terrible person.

--that witch, definitely, will have a horrible end.

Brushing her light colored hair with a tinge of gray, Taiga walked the deserted corridor towards the classroom on her own. Her exquisite profile as refined as delicate etched glass made her look like a French doll.

If she doesn't opens her mouth, rather, if not for "that" personality of hers, everyone would see Taiga as a very beautiful young lady. Her large eyes with light-colored pupils move relaxedly, looking like a kitten as it opens its mouth, the palmtop tiger lets out a lovely yawn. At times when no one is looking, Taiga does have a most captivating face.

However, the calm arch of Taiga's eyebrows suddenly raised steeply. From the other side of the corner, loud footsteps can be heard. It seems to be coming towards this place.

Disliking such a noisy person -- ignoring her own shortcomings, Taiga pouts with irritation at once. At this rate they may collide at the corner.

......or maybe not.

She did not try to change the route to an empty path nearby, this girl is called "the palmtop tiger" for a reason . Taiga absolutely walks where she wants to walk. Even if the other person is a guy from the sumo club or even if the other person is a teacher, she did not intend to change her way. She is walking properly, the other person is breaking the rules running, there is no reason to give way.

Resolutely sticking out her elbow sharply in out, Taiga lowered her head, continuing to plunge towards the prey which approached quickly. And sure enough, the moment she reached the corner,

"Ow... oh!"

"There it is...... kiyaaaah!"

Crash, the elbow connected bluntly. The other party who was knocked over screams loudly and lands on their butt, sitting in the hall due to the force of momentum. Standing firmly like a rock, before the eyes of the unperturbed Taiga, the schoolgirl's rather short skirt opened and was exposed fully. Both her pure white thighs and the seams of her light blue underpants were 100% exposed.

"......ah ah ah uuunggh~!"

Noticing the embarrassing position, she hurriedly sat down in the hall panicking and cried out again, pulling down on the hem of her skirt. And expressing "ouch" while pressing down her considerable chest that is best seen from the above. But by pressing down too strongly, did she know that it further enhanced the rounded shape to become clearly visible?

For some unknown reason (without any explanation), an even deeper cruelty and malevolence appeared in Taiga's eyes, looking down at this figure.

"......You, pay attention"

"Ah, s.. s... sor......"

Realizing that her panties had been exposed to just another girl, she lifted her eyes in that instant with a tinge of relief. However, with a blink of an eye, she realized that it was "the palmtop tiger" that stood arrogantly in front of her.

"......te... te... te..., teno...... eeek!"

Her round cheeks lost all color of blood in that instant.

Between Taiga's eyebrows, furrows looking like sawblades appeared.

Not even apologizing for knocking into me. Instead acting frightened like a victim. I hate this kind of person the most. Incidentally, I also hate those irresponsibly big breasts. ......without stating any apparent reason.

”......can't you even say "I'm sorry"? or is it, in your world, the "te... te... te..., teno..." acts as a form of apology? eh? what a barbarian!"

"o... o... o... urk!" (TL comment:the girl is trying to say "sorry")

"You're still not apologizing!"

To quickly settle this simple issue. Facing the frightened girl, Taiga ruthlessly stepped forward. Whether the other party is a guy or a girl makes no difference, Taiga's hostility to either was easily aroused. But at this moment, it felt like her foot was stepping on something.

"......?"

The girl who collided dropped her notebook, and it was under Taiga's foot. She notices it, and grimaced,

"Aaah...... Kota-kun's notebook...... the only symbol of our love......"

she cried out in despair. Tch, and Taiga clicked her tongue while, with some emphasis, picking it up with her hands, and playing with it in her hand without returning it,

"You're really good at acting as the victim......since having something so important stepped would make you cry, then you shouldn't have dropped it in the first place......."

Glaring through her glittering and brutal eyes, sizing up the girl from head to toe. Her nasal breath was rough with excitement going "ngggh nggggh", and blood rushes throughout fueling the serious malicious intent emanating from her body. "or-, or-, sor-", the female freshman cries tearfully, seemingly frozen in that spot.

a cruel smile twisted on the rosy lips of Taiga -- now then, let's see what we can do to this big-breasted girl with audacious panties that are fully exposed.

"What is it, Sakura?"

From the other side of the corridor, a voice echoed coldly

"sis-, sister!”

the big breated girl who had her panties exposed stands up and runs away, hiding her body like a rabbit behind the girl who appeared. Taiga recognized that girl,

"......it's here......"

muttering with very low voice. From her entire small body, the scent of danger from a 1 ton tiger emanates. All reason seem to disappear from her eyes -- Taiga hates this person the most.

"What have we here. ......aah, Aisaka Taiga. You are Kitamura's friend, I believe. I,"

"......think"

The girl with waist-length flowing black hair, was cold and spoke rudely like a man, which did not match her good looks. Taiga knew her. It was the president of the student council.

The student council president work with Kitamura everyday, and often as cleaning volunteers, they walk alongside together, and Kitamura would smile happily without a word -- Taiga was bitterly jealous of that girl.

"You recognize me? ......well then, why? why are you bullying my younger sister? Can you give me a good explanation"

calmly, without showing even a trace of fear, with an indulgent smile, the obnoxious student council president asks Taiga.

"......your younger sister?"

"Ah, this is my younger sister, Kanou Sakura, a freshman. ......bullying an underclassman girl, as expected of the Palmtop Tiger, aren't we attacking an easy prey?"

The big breasted panties girl hide behind the president of the student council, her body trembled going "pu ru pu ru". Taiga points at her without hesitation,

"Hey, as the elder sister, you should be ashamed of that exhibitionist. Your younger sister was running in this corridor, and crashed into the blameless me, rather than apologizing to me she spouts some crazy words and crying as if I were the one at fault, and now hides behind you"

"Hey. ......Sakura. Is this true?"

The big breasted panties girl was startled, she grimaced, and then looked up at her elder sister gasping,

"mo... mo... more or less.... !"

as soon as she nodded, the top of her head was struck! Even Taiga felt a little sympathy seeing that merciless karate chop. With some uncertain steps, her back was pushed down in front of Taiga,

"Now, you've made me look bad! You should properly apologize! How long are you going to hide behind me!"

having been yelled at with such a resounding voice. Tears formed at the corners of her eyes as she cowered down and looked up hesitantly,

"s.. s.. s-sorry...... I'm very sorry......Aisaka-senpai......"

In front of Taiga she bowed down deeply. "Keh", and Taiga snorted through her nose losing some of her fury, brushing her hair up and decided to forgive her this time, she starts to turn away.

But,

"uhm... uhm.... no..., notebook...."

"......huh!?"

at the sound of the soft voice, Taiga turns back again and her eyes filled with murderous intent. Although the big breasted panties girl shivered with fright, she didn't hide behind her elder sister again, even though both her legs were shaking, she desperately reaches her hand out.

"uhm, uhm, the notebook......? Please return it! It's not mine! i... it's from someone important, it's our only connection! i.. i... i'll do anything~!"

however that desperation, strikes at Taiga's heart......no, it lit an inherent fire of fury.

"SH... SH.. SHUT UP! You, to what degree do you want to falsely accuse me!? I just forgot about giving this to you! You think I would want something like this!?"

"Not!"

Taking the notebook in her hands, Taiga violently throws the notebook towards the throat of the big breasted panties girl, hitting back like a butcher.

While trying to catch the notebook the big breasted panties girl fell down on her knees groaning painfully. "aaaah", hitting her elbow while the student council president looks on, Taiga turns around and starts to leave.

But just at that instant. Something jumped deliberately right into Taiga's sight.

On the cover of the notebook with the distinct 22.5 cm shoeprint in the hands of the big breasted pants girl, the owner's name was clearly written with a felt-tip pen. ------"1-A Tomiie Kota".

＊　＊　＊

”waaah~, today it's somewhat extravagant~! Ryu-chan, how much prawns are there?"

"3 pieces per person"

"yay~, yay~"

Having completed her makeup except for the lipstick, with a hot curler still attached to her brightly dyed hair, Ryuji's mother - Yasuko, wearing a pink camisole and Ryuji's old middle-school jersey (track) pants and her huge breasts swaying wildly.

The innocent child-like face happily holding the chopsticks, looked like a young girl with her makeup, with beautifully painted rosy pink glossy nails, her hair flowing over her smooth collarbone, highlighting her feminine charms with a sweet scent that emits from Yasuko's skin more suitable for her real age and her evening work.

"properly eat the vegetables too, ok? and also the shiso"

"tempura shiso, I loooo~ve it! Ryu-chan too, I loooo~ve!"

At the narrow and low dining table, like peeking through a sheer cloth the colorful vegetables can be seen as well as Ryuji's wonderful tempura all lined up. In the miso soup, there is tofu, daikon (radish/turnip), vegetables; the steamed rice mixed with five spices; and today's side dish, pickled eggplants --- grown in secret in the school's gardens. As for the tempura sauce, lemon juice, or grated daikon, or anything to suit the personal taste.

half past 6 in the evening, Takasu family living room. Sitting around the low dining table were Ryuji, Yasuko, and Taiga, ready to have their usual dinner.

"bon appetit", they all said together, Yasuko reaches over for the prawn, Ryuji brings the miso soup to his mouth. Taiga's chopsticks hovers over the prawns, but why is she hesitating,

"Hey, move your chopsticks"

Ryuji scowled. But Taiga just grimaced, without any retort, and just like that stopped moving.

"......what is it?"

"......what's the matter? Taiga-chan?"

Even though she was being asked by both mother and son Taiga remains seated rigidly. "......" keeping her mouth shut. The usual Taiga would have taken even Ryuji's share of the mains together when she extended her chopsticks. Yasuko is concerned, and puts down her chopsticks,

”I see... I see..., sorry ＊ Ya-chan absolutely looo~ves Taiga-chan~ ＊"

"huh"

swoosh, and Taiga was hugged tightly. she kisses "tsup tsup tsuuuup". Being buried between those huge breasts Taiga couldn't make a sound, before long, her small hands pushed painfully with a pitter-patter sound

"I can't breathe! I can't breathe!"

"Aaaahh......"

at the time she was released, she gasps for air and simultaneously collapses onto the seat futon (zabuton). After a little while, not wanting Ryuji and Yasuko to worry about her, she slowly straightens her body.

"......no.., nothing. actually, I just a little bit......don't really feel like eating anything"

"You don't have any appetite!?"

"That is just so~"

"......even me, even when I'm slightly ill, i would still have it! ......this, take this. and this too"

Taiga passes a prawn towards Yasuko, another towards Ryuji, and the other one left, after being dipped in the tempura sauce, she gingerly brings to her own small mouth like trying out the taste.

"Don't be unreasonable (don't force yourself to eat), are you really okay?"

taking a bite, Taiga nods her head while sprinkling salt, adding more. pauses and continues eating it as it is.

"......don't worry. I can eat this. delicious"

also taking in a mouthful of white rice.

"you should probably take back the prawn? you should savor it since you're able to eat, you will see shrimps on our dining table only once a year~"

"it's ok, after eating the vegetables I'm already good"

after eating one prawn, Taiga's appetite seem to have improved, as she also drinks the miso soup. And so Ryuji was relieved,

"Shiso can be considered medicine. You should take more"

The platter of mint was turned so that it faced Taiga. Taiga nods, and takes one piece to her mouth immediately. She seems to like it, taking another piece.

In the end, Taiga also eats the other vegetable tempura, the pickled vegetables, the miso soup, and also some rice (this is a very rare situation, normally she can easily finish three bowls), for the time being we have finished eating.

Yasuko also felt relieved after seeing that, and heads out to work taking the Chanel bag that she always treasured--some disaster would occur, several hours later.

"......Ryuji......I......may be dying......"

Ryuji turns his head upon hearing this shocking statement, it was already after 10 in the evening.

As usual they were relaxing after eating and having a good time, folding a cushion in half and spreading it, the two of them were carelessly lying flat down on the tatami mat watching television. Neither of them did anything, they begin to fall asleep.

"......I'm dying......"

"wh......what?"

Noticing Taiga behind Ryuji, she seemed to have sprawled down awkwardly, somewhat like toppling sideways holding her stomach, her complexion turned very pale. Although Taiga has always been very fair-skinned, her skin tone now was a tinge of pale beige, she was very pale. Ryuji hurriedly gets up, crawling over causing Taiga's hair to scatter on the tatami with his knees.

"How is it!? Is it a stomach-ache!?"

"i-.. it hurts... a... lot...."

"do you need to go to the toilet? can you stand? are you going to throw up?!"

"toilet...... I don't think the pain is that bad......"

Wheezing and coughing, she vomited, Taiga softly shivers. Traces of cold sweat form on her damp forehead, it was quite cold.

"Is it your Stomach!?"

"I-..., I don't know...... it just hurts..... here"

Around the navel of the dress which has a repeating cotton lace pattern which expands softly, she strokes that area with her small hand. Ryuji realized clearly, this is quite serious.

"w-, we should go to the hospital!"

Inside the birdcage placed in a corner of the living room, a disfigured parrot called inko-chan also chimed "that's right!" while nodding with the whites of its eyes bulging.

"oh yes, ambulance......must call the ambulance!"

"i-, i-, isn't that a bit exaggerated....?"

"but you can't walk, right!? aren't you dying!?"

"Calling an ambulance just for a stomach-ache......don't......I-... I can cope......uuugh~......"

Taiga strains her voice, and twists her body to try to endure the pain. It can't be helped---Ryuji quickly opened the phonebook, verifying that the nearby university hospital have night time emergency facilities, dials the phone while taking his wallet and the health insurance card and putting them in his pocket.

"Oh! use my insurance card!"

The trembling becomes more apparent. The health insurance card is taken out and inserted into the slanting back pocket, carrying the light body of the weary Taiga who was lying down. Taiga was silent, like a ventriloquist's doll being carried in the arms of Ryuji, her face pressed against his shoulders,

"......nngh......nnggh......"

while enduring the pain she moans softly.

Impatiently locking the door with the housekey, Ryuji rushes out from the front door even though he was only wearing his sandals. Making loud "kang kang" noise that rang on the iron stairs as he ran down, carrying Taiga to the main street to catch a taxi,

"Sorry, there's someone sick here! Would you mind letting us go ahead!?"

Jumping out in front of an older office worker who had just stopped a taxi, he pleads. Under the light that shines on Ryuji's evil-looking sanpaku eyes, the older man felt threatened, and dropped his bag out of instinctive fear, and takes one step back,

"thank you very much!"

Ryuji interpreted that as a "Yes", and slides in the open taxi door. Informing the name of the university hospital and screaming "hurry, this person is sick!" to the driver, who adjusted the rearview mirror and nodded many times. Understanding the circumstance, made him realize it was not a car-jacking.

"Taiga, hang in there! we're almost there!"

Taiga cannot even sit properly, instead she could only lie prone on Ryuji's lap, even now trembling due to the pain.

So pitiful--no matter how she had verbally abused him, or the violent treatment he received, They were kindred who ate meals out of the same pot. Taiga is really a girl after all. Ryuji can see that she was patiently enduring the pain, trying not to cry out loud. And so he brushes her long hair gently that has become disheveled.

Just what on earth is going on? Is it food poisoning, appendicitis, or is it some other worse disease?

"......dead......"

"id-, idiot! stop saying you're dead or dying! saying such words will only make things worse!"

"......you're wrong......it's not me....that fellow......"

maybe he is dead.

While lying on Ryuji's knee, Taiga was babbling incoherently. Maybe it was playing dead, that fellow, that black tomcat, or maybe it really is dead. Then perhaps, this is its curse.

"wh~.., what? what do you mean?"

"......uhm, freshman's, female......final memento, those words......that thing......after death, that relic, that maybe....oh"

"that freshman's, uhm......are you talking about the incident this morning?"

It was when Ryuji was in the middle of harvesting the shiso and eggplants when Taiga encountered that incident in the school building with the freshman girl. Ryuji heard about this when they were on their way home.

"I..... stepped on it at that time, that notebook......because it was too ominous, i didn't say a word......that-, that thing, was......[Tomiie Kota's] property......"

Can it be? (No way), Ryuji instinctively stares around the ear of Taiga who's facing down. He knew Tomiie Kota. He is a close junior of Kitamura, a freshman in the student council, and is Taiga's so-called "black tomcat"--they say misfortune will follow when a black cat crosses one's path. In Taiga's case, it was Tomiie Kota in particular, who is the black cat that brought about this misfortune. Every time Tomiie Kota appears before Taiga, some unbelievable misfortune seem to happen to Taiga.

Her lunch sandwich would be trampled. The canned coffee would fly out of the machine and eventually slam onto her head. When cutting the tail of a fried horse mackerel, it gets stuck onto her forehead, this can also be attributed to him; when she was was walking from school, she would get hit by a dropped eraser; sometimes soya milk would be sprayed onto her face -- it's because he is Kitamura's junior, and simply for this one reason that he is able to still survive, if not because of this, Taiga would have already personally delivered this insolent underclassman to hell.

Ryuji also knows about this very well. Those encounters with Taiga were probably also miserable and unfortunate occurrences for him. But then,

"the-, the-, therefore, why the hell did this curse......"

"He's dead......that fellow, is dead......soul in that notebook......I, stepped on that......?"

Taiga's body continued shivering weakly. Her fingers grasping Ryuji's kneecaps through the trousers felt icy-cold,

"......it keeps following......that fellow's, bad luck, through his spirit.....ugh......"

Taiga continued to moan, the sound of her suffering echoing in the silent taxi.

＊　＊　＊

"For nighttime emergency medical diagnosis and treatment, it can be troublesome unless you telephone first, don't you think?"

......at last, we're here. carrying Taiga, who was trembling, to the reception counter who murmured for the first time:

"th~, that being said......i'm sorry. and so..., uhm..., can we get this medical examination started?"

"What was that?"

The woman in a business attire with the strange thick makeup was a bit unnerved in front of Ryuji's scary face, carrying Taiga carefully and looking up. Taiga seemed to be already at death's door, could not respond to the situation,

"It seems to be a stomachache. She was already feeling ill before the meal, and it seems to have become very bad a few minutes after eating!"

"What did she eat-?"

"Tempura!"

"......Tempura!?"

Ha!

and, i heard a snort that sounded like a nasal laugh -- hopefully it was just my imagination. The woman tosses a sheet of paper forward from the counter,

"here, please fill this-"

and even though being told that, his arm doesn't move but remained holding onto Taiga. Ryuji cuts the woman off, carefully lays Taiga down on the sofa of the lobby. even though Taiga's eyes were closed, she doesn't lose consciousness, gritting her teeth to endure the pain with an expression of anguish. The fluorescent light were turned off, only small electric lamps dimly illuminated the spacious lobby. There were no sign of any other patients, and voices echoed strangely.

"pl-, pl-, please lend me a pen"

after a cold glare, a pen was rolled across the counter with the "cara cara" sound echoing.

in any case; name and address (the house number of the building next to Ryuji's home should be correct, right?), symptom, I scribbled it hurriedly,

"er-, uh, is the insurance card good by tomorrow?"

"please wait over there on the sofa-"

his question wasn't answered either, and the paper wasn't looked at also, the woman just casually tossed it into an unknown box at the side. What kind of treatment is this? he wanted to ask, but it seemed better to just obey that woman's instructions and wait. Ryuji went back to Taiga who moaned, and sat down beside her, but somehow, had an inexplicable idea.

this place, it's no different from the jungle.

......isn't it? Should he take her to another place before it's too late? That woman at the reception counter is certainly not a doctor or a nurse, but her symptoms are very dire, it's probably better to find out her condition now. Glancing quietly at the suffering Taiga, however, luck seemed to change in that moment of hesitation.

"Aisaka-san, please!"

A voice calls from the examination room, and soon that woman approaches us pushing a wheelchair with a clattering sound.

"Please ride in this-"

Taiga opened her eyes slightly, and reflexively twists her body and tries to escape as if sensing something foreboding, the woman quickly reaches across and with Ryuji's help, grasps the child and places her onto the wheelchair. The woman than pushed the wheelchair efficiently into the examination room. Ryuji hastily pursues after them.

This is the patient-, the woman announced immediately, and the open door of the examination room started closing automatically.

gaaa! just as the doors were closing, he grabbed onto Taiga's leg and faltered. Ignoring both the wheezing Ryuji and the silent Taiga, the woman calmly opens the door,

"Please, go in!"

Without warning, she pushes the wheelchair in and lets it go,

"aiyee!"

Taiga's careening wheelchair was caught with the foot of a slipper by a young man in a white coat -- why is his head shaven, this doctor. He examines Taiga's leg while smiling amiably,

"What seems to be the problem-? ah, this leg? Is it painful, if that's the case I can surely heal it quickly."

"that was caused by banging on that door just now! It's stomachache!"

If Ryuji didn't immediately say anything, the doctor would probably only examine the leg and send them home after. Ah, abdominal pain? how much (pain)? and the doctor puts on the stethoscope to listen to the stomach of Taiga.

But Taiga's bulky cotton lace clothes had too much frills piled up to the point of death (also known as Furi Furi one-piece virtue), seeing this, the doctor shakes his head, as if he cannot understand where to open it.

"hah! I give up. lie down on the examination table for a while-, put your head here-, yes, yes, that's it"

the wheelchair's brakes weren't engaged, Taiga trembled as she endured the pain struggling while slowly transferring to the examination table. The doctor only reads the medical chart without noticing anything else. Ryuji being flustered, tries to lend a hand to Taiga, but,

"Ah, are you with her? her relative-?"

"eh? uhm... no, a friend......"

Suddenly being asked by that doctor, Ryuji turned his head around, in that instant, Taiga fell off the swiveling wheelchair that slipped. And she hit the hard floor with a dull thumping sound.

"Oh! Ta-, Taiga!"

"......uh......"

Clinging onto the wobbling consultation seat, Taiga stands up with a dazed look, quietly rubbing her forehead. The doctor than jokes,

"aha ha ha ha ha~, what are you doing!? is that where it hurts~!? what's the~"

the doctor seem to jokingly place the stethoscope on the forehead, until he noticed the evil eyes of Ryuji who stared in utter amazement at this unbelievable scene.

"......you-, your face, isn't it scary~! can you go away for a little while so as not to distract me!? It's really scaring me~!"

"eh......bu~, but......"

"it's ok, it's ok! just wait over there!"

He was chased off up to the doorway of the examination room almost totally pushed out. The curtain is closed, the view of Taiga passes out of sight. But how can he leave that seemingly useless doctor and Taiga alone together? he regretfully chews on his fingernails,

"......"

"......"

looking around, an elementary schoolboy was sitting in the corner of the examination room. he has asthmatic spasm but still raises and opens his mouth widely to inhale some steam, arms crossed with a "Nobody else is allowed to fiddle with this" posture while tightly hugging the machine. His eyes were glazed over like dead fish slowly losing freshness -- perhaps, it's not only due to the illness that he is fatigued.

It was absolutely a mistake to have come here, realizing this now.

"Aaargh!"

Taiga's tearful voice echoed. Just like the scream of a bear caught in a trap.

"It's alright, it's alright, I'm just drawing a little blood! Ah, failed again. ......tch! what the shit!. ......this time for sure......still nothing, tch! can't find the vein, wait a minute,"

"Aaaah, aaahh, aaaaaaahhh~!"

"I'm just looking for the vein......tch! No, this is no good! switching to the other arm, this is also useless, tch! tch! shit!"

The sounds echoing in the consultation room were scarier than anything in the world. As the terrifying voice of Taiga came to a halt, Ryuji was left standing petrified. The tongue-click noise continues, making him want to cover his ears, but the fact was Taiga was brought here by himself. He cannot avert his eyes from this scary responsibility......well, let's stop this already, have to tell him to stop this. And then have to get her out and go to another place.

With that determination he opens the curtain,

"Ha! I got it... I got it! with this it shouldn't hurts so much anymore, once we can examine the blood we should be able to determine if there was infection inside the stomach, you can rest assured from this blood check-!"

The syringe is full of Taiga's somewhat strange looking dark colored blood. The doctor smiles proudly after such a difficult ordeal,

"there, just wait a little bit! here, take this as an apology for the pain caused!"

Taking out a candy from the pocket of the white coat, unwrapping it and dropping it in the mouth of Taiga which remains half-open without moving. Taiga grabs Ryuji's hand suddenly, and coughs out the candy. The candy rolls a bit in Ryuji's hand before becoming stuck. ......that's understandable, but, on the other hand, Ryuji was feeling troubled. If a person comes to the hospital with a painful stomach, why would you give them candy......

after all this, we were told, we have to go back to the sofa of the waiting room again for another 20 minutes. Taiga plops herself down and occasionally groans, and continues to shiver slightly and rubs circles on her stomach desperately. The inner side of her left arm was quickly bruising, absorbent cotton was taped to the inner side of her right arm, a seemingly impossible amount of blood seeping into it. Her eyes glazed over lifelessly, and her complexion became terribly pasty.

"......Taiga. Hey......"

"......"

There was no response. Her voice doesn't come out anymore either. Her lips were parched dry and cracked, but maybe because she also bit on them to endure the pain, that's why it is bleeding a bit. The truth was, she surely looked worse now then before coming to this place.

It can't be helped, but the cause of the stomach pain must be discovered, and it must be treated,

"uhm, ahem~, I'm not really sure!"

from behind, incoherent voices conversed idly.

With a sinking feeling, Ryuji looks back at that doctor standing behind him. In his hand was an intravenous bag that he was going to hang onto a metal support .

"that blood we drew just now, it won't be able to help us determine the cause of the stomachache!"

"wo~, wo~, won't be able......"

"but it will help us to determine that there is no inflammation of the appendix. On the other hand, this may be something that we can't just treat at an emergency ward!"

Huh! feeling dismayed at this time in the face of the smiling doctor , while discreetly keeping Taiga behind him, Ryuji desperately questioned the doctor.

"if it's not intestinal, then, could it be some women's issue, for example gynecological problems......"

"If that's the case, that would not be considered a health emergency, unfortunately! If you really want to know what is wrong, please come back during regular hours to consult a general practitioner, oh yes, as this is a university hospital, there is no referral, so it can be quite expensive!"

"so~, somehow could it be catarrh or...... those things are......"

"That-is-why~, she did not have diarrhea, right!? nor did she she throw up, right!? even though you have come to the emergency room, we were still unable to treat it! There is no bleeding in her stomach, and there is no symptom that warrants treatment at an emergency ward! Is it food poisoning, there doesn't seem to be any such acute symptoms! Neither is it constipation! and it doesn't seem to be gas! anyway, the only thing noticeable is that she is in pain but cannot elaborate what is the pain, so...this!"

and why do you seem to be so happy, or is it merely the night shifts causing you to have high emotional tension, the doctor just pointed at the intravenous drip. Picking up the readied tube, and as soon as the cap of the needle was removed,

"This is pain-killer! Ah, this is good, a needle was left in a while ago just in case something like this might happen. This child, her blood vessels are quite difficult to find~"

The cotton on the inner right arm of Taiga was peeled off. Blood was gradually seeping out......the needle on the rubber-like mouth still remains stuck. Eehhh......but Ryuji takes a few steps back, not able to do anything. The doctor works in front of Ryuji, with great skill and dexterity, adjusts the rate of the intravenous drip,

"when the drip runs out, call me!"

"......he~, here, leave the IV drip here......? this, in the lobby?"

"there will probably be other patients, therefore we must keep the examination room free. Because sometimes serious injuries do arrive"

"......that sounds terrible......"

"like ruptured intestine"

not really caring about accounts about injuries to internal organs, and nonchalantly divulging such findings, the doctor finishes by turning back to the examination room. This university hospital certainly has a reputation as a very advanced lifesaving institution, it is one of Japan's leading hospitals. However, it seems to be incredibly modern for a hospital in the bushes.

However, I do get it, and Ryuji incidentally also came to an unusual understanding. An excellent doctor will surely be assigned to more urgent lifesaving situations, this young doctor with seemingly less skills might have been left behind here. Oh my, although this is just the imaginings of a selfish layman, judging by the suitability of that unnecessary examination~

"Taiga!?"

looking over suddenly, Ryuji shouted shrilly. Rashes were appearing all over the entire body of Taiga to which the painkiller was administered, especially from the inner arm where the needle of the IV drip is stuck. The hives can be seen spreading quickly, connecting together forming large masses of rashes,

"Oh, oh, OH......EMERGENCY! TAIGA! someone help!"

"......oou~, aaaargh......"

"Someone please come and help!"

Mouth gaping wide and wailing beside Ryuji, Taiga noticed the IV drip needle inserted in her arm for the first time.

"wh~, what~......can't breath.....whew~! this......wha~......ooow......whew~!"

"Taiga, hang in there! This is the drug to stop the pain!"

"......tch, stop... pain..., drug......I......"

"wheez wheez" sounds like from a high-pitched whistle were emanating from the throat of Taiga. Her body was twisted in pain. Her airway narrowed. The doctor and several nurses hurries over, looking at Taiga's face, and at that instant "bong!" and the eyelid can be seen swelling up,

"Oh, this is bad"

I, am allergic to some pain-killers.

(~80%~)

Toradora!:Spin-Off Legend of the Black Catboy of Misfortune

2009-12-06T16:02:45Z

RonnieCorny: /* Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune */

===Legend of the Black Tomcat of Misfortune===

"...... d- d- d-, did you see it?"

"It's no use, the trees over there are obstructing...... a little more to the left"

"......h- h- h-, how?"

"It's no good, that tree is obstructing it this time. ......ah, darn! It's quite frustrating! Can we cut it all down!?"

--I may do it.

Takasu Ryuji struggled as he crouched down silently in order to drop the hooligan off his shoulders. The hooligan got down on the ground violently with both feet.

"Damn!"

He swore at the whole world, unleashing his frustration, He tore off an innocent leaf of a shiso plant in the lush flower bed. The mint's scent drifted in the hellish heat of the noon of midsummer.

"Oh forget it, it's okay, that's a wrap. ......aaaah, even though I took the effort to come to school during summer vacation, I can't get one clear view of Kitamura-kun in his club activities. I am extremely unlucky......Hey, why are you ignoring me when I'm feeling down!?"

As Ryuji crouched down to pick some shiso leaves, the hooligan, known as Aisaka Taiga, kicked him right down and into the middle of the buttocks with the toe of her shoes.

"Ow...... that hurts, you dumbass!"

"You stupid idiot! You impudent dog!"

Whack! And he got slapped in the mouth this time, then Ryuji's fierce eyes shone as he shouted back at Taiga without backing off one bit.

"Hit me or whatever you want to do, but I, these shiso, you can't stop me from taking them! These mints are FREE! I'm free to take them! Do you understand!?"

"Tch! Waitaminit! Spit! Gross!"

"Shut up! It's free, I'm free to take it. besides, mint is my favorite! You should be happy to be able to enjoy these in the delicious salad noodles and pickled tuna covered rice every day! Incidentally, here, it was me who planted the mint! On dry days I'm also the one who waters them, sending the pests to the afterlife was also me! Therefore I have every right to harvest these mints!"

"......"

"Nevermind that! Help me pick them if you understand! Ah... It's good that I remembered, last time I finished picking them all, I wasn't sure how soon they would grow again. So careless, so careless, to almost forget. And I don't usually come here when summer vacation begins...... but then, the shiso plants are strong, look at this lush growth!"

Happily-- totally forgetting the original purpose for coming to school, Ryuji became preoccupied with the shiso plants. Casually keeping one step apart, he didn't notice Taiga's eyes glaring at him.

Even with the violent like a wild carnivorous animal known as "palmtop tiger", in the face of the golden sun in the hot day, concentrating on the shiso harvesting, any thought of running by Ryuji was not to be found anymore. Instead Ryuji went "he he", laughing happily, occasionally smelling the fragrance of the crop going "mmm..." while narrowing his eyes and thinking, I wouldn't mind putting some of these shiso into a sachet for my wallet and mobile phone. Whether it was the demonic eyes or the scary features of the face, he looked like a hopeless addict picking some illegal weed that was secretly cultivated in the Hokkaido region., although he was just enjoying the feeling of having a miniature agricultural life with his small personal herb garden.

"Ah, that's right, Taiga!"

"......"

A smug smile and the usual cold silence was all he got. But Ryuji crawls over to Taiga on his knees from the mint plants without minding,

"In the flower bed over there, I have also planted eggplants and cucumber. Say, don't you want to take a look!? The seedlings grew and flowered before the closing ceremonies! Though I attempted last year, it was tragically caught by the gardening club and removed...... But this year!"

"Don't want to"

"Why. ......Hey, why are you so unkind to me? What is that strange look you're giving me?(Why are you looking at me like that?)"

"You are becoming more and more detestable! I knew I should have come on my own after all."

"Why is that!?"

In the first place, the reason why we came to school in the middle of summer vacation was to get the needed textbook which Taiga left in the locker. Although he wasn't asked particularly, but Ryuji, who was bored with a lot of free time, decided to accompany her.

As they passed through the school gate, they found the baseball club practicing. Taiga's crush, Kitamura, was there. Since the closing ceremony, Taiga has not seen Kitamura. Kitamura was of course busy with club activities and can be seen from a distance, so she would not like him to see her spying on him.

And so Ryuji and Taiga hid down beside the flowerbed at the side of the school building where the flowers grew thick, nestled between the sunflowers which swayed whenever they peeked. However, the huge weeds of the mid-summer was larger than the petite body of Taiga and blocked her view. So he let Taiga sit on his shoulder. For Taiga's sake, he showed some kindness. And then,

"You said I'm detestable, how am I detestable?!"

"There are lots including......such as your face, or such as your sweaty back. You, your entire shirt is drenched. Ah, that reminds me......"

Taiga puts her hand inside her own skirt, thinking about the close contact between her buttocks and Ryuji's shoulders earlier. Her eyes widened in shock, her small face twisting with disgust.

"Uh......ugh! My ass is wet with the sweat from your back! eeew! eeew!"

She stuck out her tongue and pretended to throw up. No matter how good-natured Ryuji is, it still felt insulting.

"Oh, don't you think it's also possible that my back is getting wet from the sweat of your butt as well!?"

"Not a chance!"

Instant denial, cutting off further talks Taiga turns around going, yuck! yuck! and starts to kick at the dirt with her foot like a cat after it uses a toilet. Sweat pours from Ryuji's skin, leaving spots on the ground.

"Ow! Ow! ......cough! Stop that you idiot! I was even kind enough to carry you on my shoulders!?"

"I'm now regretting that! What a disgusting sweaty dog! go away! get lost!"

"I will be using these shiso in tonight's tempura for our dinner, how can you say such a thing!? May lightning strike you down!"

"Ha! Lightning strikes can kill the germs! Whatever, I'm going to hurry and get that thing I forgot (textbook in the locker), as for you, you can stay here and bake in the heat!"

Like more lightning strikes hurting Ryuji's feelings further, Taiga's long hair fluttered as she turned towards the school building and ran off. Ryuji quietly rubs his sweat-soaked back, while shaking off the dirt on his hair like a dog, and biting his lip thinking. I knew it, she really is a terrible person.

--that witch, definitely, will have a horrible end.

Brushing her light colored hair with a tinge of gray, Taiga walked the deserted corridor towards the classroom on her own. Her exquisite profile as refined as delicate etched glass made her look like a French doll.

If she doesn't opens her mouth, rather, if not for "that" personality of hers, everyone would see Taiga as a very beautiful young lady. Her large eyes with light-colored pupils move relaxedly, looking like a kitten as it opens its mouth, the palmtop tiger lets out a lovely yawn. At times when no one is looking, Taiga does have a most captivating face.

However, the calm arch of Taiga's eyebrows suddenly raised steeply. From the other side of the corner, loud footsteps can be heard. It seems to be coming towards this place.

Disliking such a noisy person -- ignoring her own shortcomings, Taiga pouts with irritation at once. At this rate they may collide at the corner.

......or maybe not.

She did not try to change the route to an empty path nearby, this girl is called "the palmtop tiger" for a reason . Taiga absolutely walks where she wants to walk. Even if the other person is a guy from the sumo club or even if the other person is a teacher, she did not intend to change her way. She is walking properly, the other person is breaking the rules running, there is no reason to give way.

Resolutely sticking out her elbow sharply in out, Taiga lowered her head, continuing to plunge towards the prey which approached quickly. And sure enough, the moment she reached the corner,

"Ow... oh!"

"There it is...... kiyaaaah!"

Crash, the elbow connected bluntly. The other party who was knocked over screams loudly and lands on their butt, sitting in the hall due to the force of momentum. Standing firmly like a rock, before the eyes of the unperturbed Taiga, the schoolgirl's rather short skirt opened and was exposed fully. Both her pure white thighs and the seams of her light blue underpants were 100% exposed.

"......ah ah ah uuunggh~!"

Noticing the embarrassing position, she hurriedly sat down in the hall panicking and cried out again, pulling down on the hem of her skirt. And expressing "ouch" while pressing down her considerable chest that is best seen from the above. But by pressing down too strongly, did she know that it further enhanced the rounded shape to become clearly visible?

For some unknown reason (without any explanation), an even deeper cruelty and malevolence appeared in Taiga's eyes, looking down at this figure.

"......You, pay attention"

"Ah, s.. s... sor......"

Realizing that her panties had been exposed to just another girl, she lifted her eyes in that instant with a tinge of relief. However, with a blink of an eye, she realized that it was "the palmtop tiger" that stood arrogantly in front of her.

"......te... te... te..., teno...... eeek!"

Her round cheeks lost all color of blood in that instant.

Between Taiga's eyebrows, furrows looking like sawblades appeared.

Not even apologizing for knocking into me. Instead acting frightened like a victim. I hate this kind of person the most. Incidentally, I also hate those irresponsibly big breasts. ......without stating any apparent reason.

”......can't you even say "I'm sorry"? or is it, in your world, the "te... te... te..., teno..." acts as a form of apology? eh? what a barbarian!"

"o... o... o... urk!" (TL comment:the girl is trying to say "sorry")

"You're still not apologizing!"

To quickly settle this simple issue. Facing the frightened girl, Taiga ruthlessly stepped forward. Whether the other party is a guy or a girl makes no difference, Taiga's hostility to either was easily aroused. But at this moment, it felt like her foot was stepping on something.

"......?"

The girl who collided dropped her notebook, and it was under Taiga's foot. She notices it, and grimaced,

"Aaah...... Kota-kun's notebook...... the only symbol of our love......"

she cried out in despair. Tch, and Taiga clicked her tongue while, with some emphasis, picking it up with her hands, and playing with it in her hand without returning it,

"You're really good at acting as the victim......since having something so important stepped would make you cry, then you shouldn't have dropped it in the first place......."

Glaring through her glittering and brutal eyes, sizing up the girl from head to toe. Her nasal breath was rough with excitement going "ngggh nggggh", and blood rushes throughout fueling the serious malicious intent emanating from her body. "or-, or-, sor-", the female freshman cries tearfully, seemingly frozen in that spot.

a cruel smile twisted on the rosy lips of Taiga -- now then, let's see what we can do to this big-breasted girl with audacious panties that are fully exposed.

"What is it, Sakura?"

From the other side of the corridor, a voice echoed coldly

"sis-, sister!”

the big breated girl who had her panties exposed stands up and runs away, hiding her body like a rabbit behind the girl who appeared. Taiga recognized that girl,

"......it's here......"

muttering with very low voice. From her entire small body, the scent of danger from a 1 ton tiger emanates. All reason seem to disappear from her eyes -- Taiga hates this person the most.

"What have we here. ......aah, Aisaka Taiga. You are Kitamura's friend, I believe. I,"

"......think"

The girl with waist-length flowing black hair, was cold and spoke rudely like a man, which did not match her good looks. Taiga knew her. It was the president of the student council.

The student council president work with Kitamura everyday, and often as cleaning volunteers, they walk alongside together, and Kitamura would smile happily without a word -- Taiga was bitterly jealous of that girl.

"You recognize me? ......well then, why? why are you bullying my younger sister? Can you give me a good explanation"

calmly, without showing even a trace of fear, with an indulgent smile, the obnoxious student council president asks Taiga.

"......your younger sister?"

"Ah, this is my younger sister, Kanou Sakura, a freshman. ......bullying an underclassman girl, as expected of the Palmtop Tiger, aren't we attacking an easy prey?"

The big breasted panties girl hide behind the president of the student council, her body trembled going "pu ru pu ru". Taiga points at her without hesitation,

"Hey, as the elder sister, you should be ashamed of that exhibitionist. Your younger sister was running in this corridor, and crashed into the blameless me, rather than apologizing to me she spouts some crazy words and crying as if I were the one at fault, and now hides behind you"

"Hey. ......Sakura. Is this true?"

The big breasted panties girl was startled, she grimaced, and then looked up at her elder sister gasping,

"mo... mo... more or less.... !"

as soon as she nodded, the top of her head was struck! Even Taiga felt a little sympathy seeing that merciless karate chop. With some uncertain steps, her back was pushed down in front of Taiga,

"Now, you've made me look bad! You should properly apologize! How long are you going to hide behind me!"

having been yelled at with such a resounding voice. Tears formed at the corners of her eyes as she cowered down and looked up hesitantly,

"s.. s.. s-sorry...... I'm very sorry......Aisaka-senpai......"

In front of Taiga she bowed down deeply. "Keh", and Taiga snorted through her nose losing some of her fury, brushing her hair up and decided to forgive her this time, she starts to turn away.

But,

"uhm... uhm.... no..., notebook...."

"......huh!?"

at the sound of the soft voice, Taiga turns back again and her eyes filled with murderous intent. Although the big breasted panties girl shivered with fright, she didn't hide behind her elder sister again, even though both her legs were shaking, she desperately reaches her hand out.

"uhm, uhm, the notebook......? Please return it! It's not mine! i... it's from someone important, it's our only connection! i.. i... i'll do anything~!"

however that desperation, strikes at Taiga's heart......no, it lit an inherent fire of fury.

"SH... SH.. SHUT UP! You, to what degree do you want to falsely accuse me!? I just forgot about giving this to you! You think I would want something like this!?"

"Not!"

Taking the notebook in her hands, Taiga violently throws the notebook towards the throat of the big breasted panties girl, hitting back like a butcher.

While trying to catch the notebook the big breasted panties girl fell down on her knees groaning painfully. "aaaah", hitting her elbow while the student council president looks on, Taiga turns around and starts to leave.

But just at that instant. Something jumped deliberately right into Taiga's sight.

On the cover of the notebook with the distinct 22.5 cm shoeprint in the hands of the big breasted pants girl, the owner's name was clearly written with a felt-tip pen. ------"1-A Tomiie Kota".

＊　＊　＊

”waaah~, today it's somewhat extravagant~! Ryu-chan, how much prawns are there?"

"3 pieces per person"

"yay~, yay~"

Having completed her makeup except for the lipstick, with a hot curler still attached to her brightly dyed hair, Ryuji's mother - Yasuko, wearing a pink camisole and Ryuji's old middle-school jersey (track) pants and her huge breasts swaying wildly.

The innocent child-like face happily holding the chopsticks, looked like a young girl with her makeup, with beautifully painted rosy pink glossy nails, her hair flowing over her smooth collarbone, highlighting her feminine charms with a sweet scent that emits from Yasuko's skin more suitable for her real age and her evening work.

"properly eat the vegetables too, ok? and also the shiso"

"tempura shiso, I loooo~ve it! Ryu-chan too, I loooo~ve!"

At the narrow and low dining table, like peeking through a sheer cloth the colorful vegetables can be seen as well as Ryuji's wonderful tempura all lined up. In the miso soup, there is tofu, daikon (radish/turnip), vegetables; the steamed rice mixed with five spices; and today's side dish, pickled eggplants --- grown in secret in the school's gardens. As for the tempura sauce, lemon juice, or grated daikon, or anything to suit the personal taste.

half past 6 in the evening, Takasu family living room. Sitting around the low dining table were Ryuji, Yasuko, and Taiga, ready to have their usual dinner.

"bon appetit", they all said together, Yasuko reaches over for the prawn, Ryuji brings the miso soup to his mouth. Taiga's chopsticks hovers over the prawns, but why is she hesitating,

"Hey, move your chopsticks"

Ryuji scowled. But Taiga just grimaced, without any retort, and just like that stopped moving.

"......what is it?"

"......what's the matter? Taiga-chan?"

Even though she was being asked by both mother and son Taiga remains seated rigidly. "......" keeping her mouth shut. The usual Taiga would have taken even Ryuji's share of the mains together when she extended her chopsticks. Yasuko is concerned, and puts down her chopsticks,

”I see... I see..., sorry ＊ Ya-chan absolutely looo~ves Taiga-chan~ ＊"

"huh"

swoosh, and Taiga was hugged tightly. she kisses "tsup tsup tsuuuup". Being buried between those huge breasts Taiga couldn't make a sound, before long, her small hands pushed painfully with a pitter-patter sound

"I can't breathe! I can't breathe!"

"Aaaahh......"

at the time she was released, she gasps for air and simultaneously collapses onto the seat futon (zabuton). After a little while, not wanting Ryuji and Yasuko to worry about her, she slowly straightens her body.

"......no.., nothing. actually, I just a little bit......don't really feel like eating anything"

"You don't have any appetite!?"

"That is just so~"

"......even me, even when I'm slightly ill, i would still have it! ......this, take this. and this too"

Taiga passes a prawn towards Yasuko, another towards Ryuji, and the other one left, after being dipped in the tempura sauce, she gingerly brings to her own small mouth like trying out the taste.

"Don't be unreasonable (don't force yourself to eat), are you really okay?"

taking a bite, Taiga nods her head while sprinkling salt, adding more. pauses and continues eating it as it is.

"......don't worry. I can eat this. delicious"

also taking in a mouthful of white rice.

"you should probably take back the prawn? you should savor it since you're able to eat, you will see shrimps on our dining table only once a year~"

"it's ok, after eating the vegetables I'm already good"

after eating one prawn, Taiga's appetite seem to have improved, as she also drinks the miso soup. And so Ryuji was relieved,

"Shiso can be considered medicine. You should take more"

The platter of mint was turned so that it faced Taiga. Taiga nods, and takes one piece to her mouth immediately. She seems to like it, taking another piece.

In the end, Taiga also eats the other vegetable tempura, the pickled vegetables, the miso soup, and also some rice (this is a very rare situation, normally she can easily finish three bowls), for the time being we have finished eating.

Yasuko also felt relieved after seeing that, and heads out to work taking the Chanel bag that she always treasured--some disaster would occur, several hours later.

"......Ryuji......I......may be dying......"

Ryuji turns his head upon hearing this shocking statement, it was already after 10 in the evening.

As usual they were relaxing after eating and having a good time, folding a cushion in half and spreading it, the two of them were carelessly lying flat down on the tatami mat watching television. Neither of them did anything, they begin to fall asleep.

"......I'm dying......"

"wh......what?"

Noticing Taiga behind Ryuji, she seemed to have sprawled down awkwardly, somewhat like toppling sideways holding her stomach, her complexion turned very pale. Although Taiga has always been very fair-skinned, her skin tone now was a tinge of pale beige, she was very pale. Ryuji hurriedly gets up, crawling over causing Taiga's hair to scatter on the tatami with his knees.

"How is it!? Is it a stomach-ache!?"

"i-.. it hurts... a... lot...."

"do you need to go to the toilet? can you stand? are you going to throw up?!"

"toilet...... I don't think the pain is that bad......"

Wheezing and coughing, she vomited, Taiga softly shivers. Traces of cold sweat form on her damp forehead, it was quite cold.

"Is it your Stomach!?"

"I-..., I don't know...... it just hurts..... here"

Around the navel of the dress which has a repeating cotton lace pattern which expands softly, she strokes that area with her small hand. Ryuji realized clearly, this is quite serious.

"w-, we should go to the hospital!"

Inside the birdcage placed in a corner of the living room, a disfigured parrot called inko-chan also chimed "that's right!" while nodding with the whites of its eyes bulging.

"oh yes, ambulance......must call the ambulance!"

"i-, i-, isn't that a bit exaggerated....?"

"but you can't walk, right!? aren't you dying!?"

"Calling an ambulance just for a stomach-ache......don't......I-... I can cope......uuugh~......"

Taiga strains her voice, and twists her body to try to endure the pain. It can't be helped---Ryuji quickly opened the phonebook, verifying that the nearby university hospital have night time emergency facilities, dials the phone while taking his wallet and the health insurance card and putting them in his pocket.

"Oh! use my insurance card!"

The trembling becomes more apparent. The health insurance card is taken out and inserted into the slanting back pocket, carrying the light body of the weary Taiga who was lying down. Taiga was silent, like a ventriloquist's doll being carried in the arms of Ryuji, her face pressed against his shoulders,

"......nngh......nnggh......"

while enduring the pain she moans softly.

Impatiently locking the door with the housekey, Ryuji rushes out from the front door even though he was only wearing his sandals. Making loud "kang kang" noise that rang on the iron stairs as he ran down, carrying Taiga to the main street to catch a taxi,

"Sorry, there's someone sick here! Would you mind letting us go ahead!?"

Jumping out in front of an older office worker who had just stopped a taxi, he pleads. Under the light that shines on Ryuji's evil-looking sanpaku eyes, the older man felt threatened, and dropped his bag out of instinctive fear, and takes one step back,

"thank you very much!"

Ryuji interpreted that as a "Yes", and slides in the open taxi door. Informing the name of the university hospital and screaming "hurry, this person is sick!" to the driver, who adjusted the rearview mirror and nodded many times. Understanding the circumstance, made him realize it was not a car-jacking.

"Taiga, hang in there! we're almost there!"

Taiga cannot even sit properly, instead she could only lie prone on Ryuji's lap, even now trembling due to the pain.

So pitiful--no matter how she had verbally abused him, or the violent treatment he received, They were kindred who ate meals out of the same pot. Taiga is really a girl after all. Ryuji can see that she was patiently enduring the pain, trying not to cry out loud. And so he brushes her long hair gently that has become disheveled.

Just what on earth is going on? Is it food poisoning, appendicitis, or is it some other worse disease?

"......dead......"

"id-, idiot! stop saying you're dead or dying! saying such words will only make things worse!"

"......you're wrong......it's not me....that fellow......"

maybe he is dead.

While lying on Ryuji's knee, Taiga was babbling incoherently. Maybe it was playing dead, that fellow, that black tomcat, or maybe it really is dead. Then perhaps, this is its curse.

"wh~.., what? what do you mean?"

"......uhm, freshman's, female......final memento, those words......that thing......after death, that relic, that maybe....oh"

"that freshman's, uhm......are you talking about the incident this morning?"

It was when Ryuji was in the middle of harvesting the shiso and eggplants when Taiga encountered that incident in the school building with the freshman girl. Ryuji heard about this when they were on their way home.

"I..... stepped on it at that time, that notebook......because it was too ominous, i didn't say a word......that-, that thing, was......[Tomiie Kota's] property......"

Can it be? (No way), Ryuji instinctively stares around the ear of Taiga who's facing down. He knew Tomiie Kota. He is a close junior of Kitamura, a freshman in the student council, and is Taiga's so-called "black tomcat"--they say misfortune will follow when a black cat crosses one's path. In Taiga's case, it was Tomiie Kota in particular, who is the black cat that brought about this misfortune. Every time Tomiie Kota appears before Taiga, some unbelievable misfortune seem to happen to Taiga.

Her lunch sandwich would be trampled. The canned coffee would fly out of the machine and eventually slam onto her head. When cutting the tail of a fried horse mackerel, it gets stuck onto her forehead, this can also be attributed to him; when she was was walking from school, she would get hit by a dropped eraser; sometimes soya milk would be sprayed onto her face -- it's because he is Kitamura's junior, and simply for this one reason that he is able to still survive, if not because of this, Taiga would have already personally delivered this insolent underclassman to hell.

Ryuji also knows about this very well. Those encounters with Taiga were probably also miserable and unfortunate occurrences for him. But then,

"the-, the-, therefore, why the hell did this curse......"

"He's dead......that fellow, is dead......soul in that notebook......I, stepped on that......?"

Taiga's body continued shivering weakly. Her fingers grasping Ryuji's kneecaps through the trousers felt icy-cold,

"......it keeps following......that fellow's, bad luck, through his spirit.....ugh......"

Taiga continued to moan, the sound of her suffering echoing in the silent taxi.

＊　＊　＊

"For nighttime emergency medical diagnosis and treatment, it can be troublesome unless you telephone first, don't you think?"

......at last, we're here. carrying Taiga, who was trembling, to the reception counter who murmured for the first time:

"th~, that being said......i'm sorry. and so..., uhm..., can we get this medical examination started?"

"What was that?"

The woman in a business attire with the strange thick makeup was a bit unnerved in front of Ryuji's scary face, carrying Taiga carefully and looking up. Taiga seemed to be already at death's door, could not respond to the situation,

"It seems to be a stomachache. She was already feeling ill before the meal, and it seems to have become very bad a few minutes after eating!"

"What did she eat-?"

"Tempura!"

"......Tempura!?"

Ha!

and, i heard a snort that sounded like a nasal laugh -- hopefully it was just my imagination. The woman tosses a sheet of paper forward from the counter,

"here, please fill this-"

and even though being told that, his arm doesn't move but remained holding onto Taiga. Ryuji cuts the woman off, carefully lays Taiga down on the sofa of the lobby. even though Taiga's eyes were closed, she doesn't lose consciousness, gritting her teeth to endure the pain with an expression of anguish. The fluorescent light were turned off, only small electric lamps dimly illuminated the spacious lobby. There were no sign of any other patients, and voices echoed strangely.

"pl-, pl-, please lend me a pen"

after a cold glare, a pen was rolled across the counter with the "cara cara" sound echoing.

in any case; name and address (the house number of the building next to Ryuji's home should be correct, right?), symptom, I scribbled it hurriedly,

"er-, uh, is the insurance card good by tomorrow?"

"please wait over there on the sofa-"

his question wasn't answered either, and the paper wasn't looked at also, the woman just casually tossed it into an unknown box at the side. What kind of treatment is this? he wanted to ask, but it seemed better to just obey that woman's instructions and wait. Ryuji went back to Taiga who moaned, and sat down beside her, but somehow, had an inexplicable idea.

this place, it's no different from the jungle.

......isn't it? Should he take her to another place before it's too late? That woman at the reception counter is certainly not a doctor or a nurse, but her symptoms are very dire, it's probably better to find out her condition now. Glancing quietly at the suffering Taiga, however, luck seemed to change in that moment of hesitation.

"Aisaka-san, please!"

A voice calls from the consultation room, and soon that woman approaches us pushing a wheelchair with a clattering sound.

"Please ride in this-"

Taiga opened her eyes slightly, and reflexively twists her body and tries to escape as if sensing something foreboding, the woman quickly reaches across and with Ryuji's help, grasps the child and places her onto the wheelchair. The woman than pushed the wheelchair efficiently into the consultation room. Ryuji hastily pursues after them.

This is the patient-, the woman announced immediately, and the open door of the consultation room started closing automatically.

gaaa! just as the doors were closing, he grabbed onto Taiga's leg and faltered. Ignoring both the wheezing Ryuji and the silent Taiga, the woman calmly opens the door,

"Please, go in!"

Without warning, she pushes the wheelchair in and lets it go,

"aiyee!"

Taiga's careening wheelchair was caught with the foot of a slipper by a young man in a white coat -- why is his head shaven, this doctor. He examines Taiga's leg while smiling amiably,

"What seems to be the problem-? ah, this leg? Is it painful, if that's the case I can surely heal it quickly."

"that was caused by banging on that door just now! It's stomachache!"

If Ryuji didn't immediately say anything, the doctor would probably only examine the leg and send them home after. Ah, abdominal pain? how much (pain)? and the doctor puts on the stethoscope to listen to the stomach of Taiga.

But Taiga's bulky cotton lace clothes had too much frills piled up to the point of death (also known as Furi Furi one-piece virtue), seeing this, the doctor shakes his head, as if he cannot understand where to open it.

"hah! I give up. lie down on the examination table for a while-, put your head here-, yes, yes, that's it"

the wheelchair's brakes weren't engaged, Taiga trembled as she endured the pain struggling while slowly transferring to the examination table. The doctor only reads the medical chart without noticing anything else. Ryuji being flustered, tries to lend a hand to Taiga, but,

"Ah, are you with her? her relative-?"

"eh? uhm... no, a friend......"

Suddenly being asked by that doctor, Ryuji turned his head around, in that instant, Taiga fell off the swiveling wheelchair that slipped. And she hit the hard floor with a dull thumping sound.

"Oh! Ta-, Taiga!"

"......uh......"

Clinging onto the wobbling consultation seat, Taiga stands up with a dazed look, quietly rubbing her forehead. The doctor than jokes,

"aha ha ha ha ha~, what are you doing!? is that where it hurts~!? what's the~"

the doctor seem to jokingly place the stethoscope on the forehead, until he noticed the evil eyes of Ryuji who stared in utter amazement at this unbelievable scene.

"......you-, your face, isn't it scary~! can you go away for a little while so as not to distract me!? It's really scaring me~!"

"eh......bu~, but......"

"it's ok, it's ok! just wait over there!"

He was chased off up to the doorway of the consultation room almost totally pushed out. The curtain is closed, the view of Taiga passes out of sight. But how can he leave that seemingly useless doctor and Taiga alone together? he regretfully chews on his fingernails,

"......"

"......"

looking around, an elementary schoolboy was sitting in the corner of the consultation room. he has asthmatic spasm but still raises and opens his mouth widely to inhale some steam, arms crossed with a "Nobody else is allowed to fiddle with this" posture while tightly hugging the machine. His eyes were glazed over like dead fish slowly losing freshness -- perhaps, it's not only due to the illness that he is fatigued.

It was absolutely a mistake to have come here, realizing this now.

"Aaargh!"

Taiga's tearful voice echoed. Just like the scream of a bear caught in a trap.

"It's alright, it's alright, I'm just drawing a little blood! Ah, failed again. ......tch! what the shit!. ......this time for sure......still nothing, tch! can't find the vein, wait a minute,"

"Aaaah, aaahh, aaaaaaahhh~!"

"I'm just looking for the vein......tch! No, this is no good! switching to the other arm, this is also useless, tch! tch! shit!"

The sounds echoing in the consultation room were scarier than anything in the world. As the terrifying voice of Taiga came to a halt, Ryuji was left standing petrified. The tongue-click noise continues, making him want to cover his ears, but the fact was Taiga was brought here by himself. He cannot avert his eyes from this scary responsibility......well, let's stop this already, have to tell him to stop this. And then have to get her out and go to another place.

With that determination he opens the curtain,

"Ha! I got it... I got it! with this it shouldn't hurts so much anymore, once we can examine the blood we should be able to determine if there was infection inside the stomach, you can rest assured from this blood check-!"

The syringe is full of Taiga's somewhat strange looking dark colored blood. The doctor smiles proudly after such a difficult ordeal,

"there, just wait a little bit! here, take this as an apology for the pain caused!"

Taking out a candy from the pocket of the white coat, unwrapping it and dropping it in the mouth of Taiga which remains half-open without moving. Taiga grabs Ryuji's hand suddenly, and coughs out the candy. The candy rolls a bit in Ryuji's hand before becoming stuck. ......that's understandable, but, on the other hand, Ryuji was feeling troubled. If a person comes to the hospital with a painful stomach, why would you give them candy......

after all this, we were told, we have to go back to the sofa of the waiting room again for another 20 minutes. Taiga plops herself down and occasionally groans, and continues to shiver slightly and rubs circles on her stomach desperately. The inner side of her left arm was quickly bruising, absorbent cotton was taped to the inner side of her right arm, a seemingly impossible amount of blood seeping into it. Her eyes glazed over lifelessly, and her complexion became terribly pasty.

"......Taiga. Hey......"

"......"

There was no response. Her voice doesn't come out anymore either. Her lips were parched dry and cracked, but maybe because she also bit on them to endure the pain, that's why it is bleeding a bit. The truth was, she surely looked worse now then before coming to this place.

It can't be helped, but the cause of the stomach pain must be discovered, and it must be treated,

"uhm, ahem~, I'm not really sure!"

from behind, incoherent voices conversed idly.

With a sinking feeling, Ryuji looks back at that doctor standing behind him. In his hand was an intravenous bag that he was going to hang onto a metal support .

"that blood we drew just now, it won't be able to help us determine the cause of the stomachache!"

"wo~, wo~, won't be able......"

"but it will help us to determine that there is no inflammation of the appendix. On the other hand, this may be something that we can't just treat at an emergency ward!"

Huh! feeling dismayed at this time in the face of the smiling doctor , while discreetly keeping Taiga behind him, Ryuji desperately questioned the doctor.

"if it's not intestinal, then, could it be some women's issue, for example gynecological problems......"

"If that's the case, that would not be considered a health emergency, unfortunately! If you really want to know what is wrong, please come back during regular hours to consult a general practitioner, oh yes, as this is a university hospital, there is no referral, so it can be quite expensive!"

"so~, somehow could it be catarrh or...... those things are......"

"That-is-why~, she did not have diarrhea, right!? nor did she she throw up, right!? even though you have come to the emergency room, we were still unable to treat it! There is no bleeding in her stomach, and there is no symptom that warrants treatment at an emergency ward! Is it food poisoning, there doesn't seem to be any such acute symptoms! Neither is it constipation! and it doesn't seem to be gas! anyway, the only thing noticeable is that she is in pain but cannot elaborate what is the pain, so...this!"

and why do you seem to be so happy, or is it merely the night shifts causing you to have high emotional tension, the doctor just pointed at the intravenous drip. Picking up the readied tube, and as soon as the cap of the needle was removed,

"This is painkiller! Ah, this is good, a needle was left in a while ago just in case something like this might happen. This child, her blood vessels are quite difficult to find~"

The cotton on the inner right arm of Taiga was peeled off. Blood was gradually seeping out......the needle on the rubber-like mouth still remains stuck. Eehhh......but Ryuji takes a few steps back, not able to do anything. The doctor works in front of Ryuji, with great skill and dexterity, adjusts the rate of the intravenous drip,

"when the drip runs out, call me!"

"......he~, here, leave the IV drip here......? this, in the lobby?"

"there will probably be other patients, therefore we must keep the consultation room free. Because sometimes serious injuries do arrive"

(~75%~)