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Disclaimer

Oh please don't sue me...oh please! I'm too young to go to jail!

Original Episode 14: Review Session

My eyes lazily opened just seconds before my alarm clock's loud ringing was heard. Normally I just have the thing turn on the radio but I felt I would need something a bit more powerful to wake me this morning. Immediately I sat up and stretched and was face-to-face with my computer monitor. Given the fact that I woke up in my computer chair and not my bed could only mean one thing: I was working late into the night again.

The others are going to kill me when they find out that I've just broken my promise I made with my friends again. Ever since they found out that I'd been pulling all-nighters on a frequent basis, they've started to monitor my sleeping habits. Ulrich and Odd would keep knocking at my door to see if I was still awake and would not leave until I went to bed. Late night pesters were bearable. The worst of it all is that those two somehow managed to get Aelita involved as well. The knocks on my door I can occasionally ignore but one stern look from her and the next thing you know I'm shutting down my computer for the night.

Still though, I can see where they're coming from. Missing meals and getting little sleep will wreak untold damages to my body in the future. I'm touched that they care for me so deeply. Then again, XANA has no need for food or rest and is constantly plotting our demise. He's a threat to our safety and the world's, and the longer he stays active, the more dangerous he becomes. The upkeep for maintaining our counter-offensive is humongous: codes need to be programmed, computers fixed and updated, scans to run and of course the attacks. I'm the only one who has the necessary abilities to accomplish these vital tasks and to do them within normal waking hours is a Herculean tasks My list of responsibilities is so great that I sometimes forget what I was last working on.

Come to think of it, what was I working on last night before I drifted off into sleep?

I quickly skim through the word processing program that I still have out. Luckily, I managed to save this piece of writing right before I dozed off. Even though I currently had no clue what I had written last night, I'm not in the mood to write it all over again...

Oh yeah now I remember, I was updating the Battle Log. See, this is what I mean when I say my list of responsibilities is huge. Ever since XANA took control of Milly's teddy bear and sent it rampaging around the city, I've been documenting all of our encounters with the rouge program.

These detailed summaries contain all the necessary information of what happened on that particular day: Who went to Lyoko. Who stayed on Earth to minimize damage. As well as tracking general strategies in combat and any personal conflicts that might have happened along the way. Already three XANA attacks have gone by since I last made an addition to this thing which goes to show how easily my work gets backlogged. Well, I might as well get started then, these sorts of things don't finish themselves. I'm happy there were no classes today. While the rest of the students of Kadic use this opportunity to lounge away in bliss, I'll be more productive and really keep my nose to the grindstone.

Going over the list of methods that XANA has used to attack Earth, I'm beginning to think he's been watching too many cheesy sci-fi movies. I mean look at this: mind-controlled bees, rampaging robots in a malfunctioning factory and nearly reducing Kadic to a pile of rubble with the power of sound. Honestly, I'm having a hard time believing half of this and I actually lived through these events. If an outsider were to read these documents, it would look more like a pilot for a TV show instead of an accurate documentation of our day-to-day lives.

I just recycled one of Jin's tired punch lines. Man this feels strange.

Fortunately, I had managed to get a majority of my work done while in my sleepy haze last night. Really all I need are a few edits and some finishing touches and then I would complete another important project. It's at this critical stage that I begin to feel a bit wary because usually whenever I make a significant leap in progress in whatever I am doing, some major distraction has to come pounding at my door.

knock knock

Or in this case, two major distractions by the names of Odd and Ulrich.

"Come in," I say passively.

Odd enters first and immediately flops onto my bed without a second thought. Really though, that guy treats my room as if it was just an extension of his. Oh well, it's one of his unique "quirks" that I've grown accustomed to through all the years I've known him. At least Ulrich has enough tact to lean against the wall so he won't disturb anything.

"Hey Einstein!" Odd cheerfully yells out looking rather excited. He's probably thinking of food right now hence why his smile is so wide.

"Wanna get some breakfast?"

I knew it.

Ulrich is far more subtle with his request than his loud roommate.

"So you're coming downstairs or what? You're going to need to eat or else you won't have enough energy in your system for what Yumi has planned for all of us."

Oh shoot Yumi! I almost forgot about that. I actually promised her that I'd show up to the little meeting she arranged for today. I can only imagine the disappointed frown she would have if I backed out now. She really goes out of her way to look after me sometimes, kinda like a big sister in a way.

"Sure but..."

"But what?" Odd quickly cuts me off.

"But, I need to freshen up first. Just out of curiosity, do any of you have any idea what Yumi has in store for us?"

My two distractions just shrug their shoulders. They're just as clueless as I am.

"Not much Einstein. All she said was to show up dressed ready for a workout."

Oh great not more PE. Jim gives me enough of a hard time but now Yumi wants to actually put me through more physical torment during my free time. Well she has her reasons. Quickly I shoo away the two roommates so I can get changed.

"Usual table?" Ulrich asks.

"As always."

The door closes as I gather my bathroom supplies and head for the showers. I really want to get back to my personal projects but a small break won't hurt.

"Soooo, how does your cheek feel?" Ulrich asks me with a cheeky smile.

"My cheek? What on Earth are you talking about?"

"Oh I just remembered the time when Emily slapped you when you started spreading rumors about her having a crush on Jim."

"Dude that is such old news!"

"Yeah but it's still really funny. Admit it."

My roommate doubles over in laughter at my expense. He's forgetting that whole thing was part of an elaborate lie I made up in order for him to save face when he went all lovey-dovey on us. The things I do for friendship.

"I'm sure I can find a kind person to come and kiss it to make it feel better. I've a long list of girls who would just love to volunteer."

My sharp wit strikes again. Only someone possessing my humorous genius could turn a potential insult into a moment of flattery. I really impress myself sometimes. Ulrich didn't really have a chance to respond as Jeremie finally decided to show up.

"Welcome to the best table in the cafeteria." I see another moment for self-flattery. "It is only here that you can be graced by my wonderful presence."

Jeremie stares at me blankly as he does not grasp my gift of comedy and promptly sits down. The score stands: Odd two, Jeremie & Ulrich zero.

"So what did I miss?"

I'm stuffing my mouth with Rosa's cooking, so I can't really say anything important right now. Ulrich does so for me.

"Ah nothing much, just chit-chat"

"Yeah chit-chat," I say with a mouth full of food.

"Odd and I were talking about that one time when XANA controlled all those bees and sent them to attack us."

I swallow whatever I was chewing on for I could no longer concentrate on eating. That particular XANA attack left some pretty bad memories for yours truly. Like the time when Einstein and I were chased by those yellow buggers and had to hide out in the sewer. See, this is why we have Return to the Past folks; without it I would be forced into bankruptcy with dry cleaning bills alone.

"I'm telling you man, you and Yumi got off easily. You two try hiding out in the sewage system for half-an-hour."

Talking about Lyoko will always get Jeremie's attention and it was only a matter of time before he'd tell about the next big thing he would start working on.

"That reminds me, I've updated the Battle Log today..."

Just like clockwork. Just like clockwork.

"Thank goodness that we got today off or else I would have never completed this thing. Writing detailed records of what happened for three XANA attacks is quiet a daunting assignment."

Here's an equation I'd like to share with all of you; new project, plus Jeremie, equals total lack of sleep. Whenever he gets an idea to do something stuck in his head he'll work on it with a one-track mind and ignore "less important" things, such as food and rest. It is my theory that Jeremie

might be part machine on account that no normal person could function under such conditions. Ulrich immediately gets on his case to see if he's been a good little boy in keeping his promise.

"You didn't wake up with your head on your keyboard again did you?"

He turns away in embarrassment. "Not really."

"I knew it!" Ulrich sounds more upset than angry I notice. "You can't keep doing this to yourself. We appreciate your hard work and all but we don't want to see you waste away over this thing."

I slow my eating pace and prepare for the worst. Telling Jeremie to ease up on his work load is always a touchy subject. More and more he's personalizing our battle against XANA. I can't really blame the guy though. Each attack has been getting progressively more dangerous which shows that XANA needs to buy the virtual farm soon. Not to mention, I would bet good money that Jeremie's been having late night chat sessions with a certain pink haired girl. Sly dog.

"It's really hard to do that Ulrich..."

Normally I'd expect an angry outburst from him but instead he just sinks lower into his chair. I really feel sorry for him at times.

"This isn't a game anymore. XANA is a getting smarter by the day. He could have killed all of us, Aelita included, when we walked into his trap over at the factory or during any of his previous attacks. Even with Jin's help, we've only been winning by a slim margin."

This is some real heavy stuff that Einstein is saying and I'm not doing anything stupid to spoil such a tender moment like opening my mouth.

"I hate to think about us losing but I sometimes feel like our good fortune is going to run out one day. I don't want to see you guys get hurt and if I have to spend every waking moment of my life to finding the code to bring Aelita over here then I'll do it for everyone's sake."

Geez, Einstein has been really thinking about this issue, but that's why I'm friends with him. Not so that I can pick apart the brain of the smartest kid in the school, but because he's a real honest to goodness person. I'd give anything to help him out when it comes to anything life or Lyoko related.

Well, anything except my blueberry muffin. That's one of the few things Rosa makes that I'll actually eat and enjoy. It's no surprise to see that the others did not share my sunny deposition after that exchange of words. It was if the Sulking Fairy came by and hit everyone with her Emo Ray but missed me in the process. Having all this doom and gloom is going to seriously cramp my style. If I'm going to save the day then I gotta resort to one of my desperation tactics in cheering people up: random topic changing.

"So you guys finish your group projects for Ms. Hertz?"

Shoot, stupid me. If I want to brighten the mood a bit, then talking about school is not going to do the trick. I might as well...

"Quite well actually. I'm just happy that I didn't get Sissi as a partner."

Holy cow it's working. It's...actually...working. Who would have thought? Though it's a bit surprising to see how easily Ulrich took the bait. I'm disappointed in you, man.

"You lucked out. What about you Jeremie? How's it being partnered up with..." Oh drat, her name is just at the tip of my tongue. C'mon Odd, think! Wait, don't tell me. I'll get it, just give me some time.

"Her name is Jordan. The two of us have been quite the productive pair."

Awwww man, I knew the answer. I didn't pity myself for long as I could see Jeremie remove a series of work sheets from his backpack.

"See, I've already completed my half of the project. All I have to do is give my share to Jordan and she'll compile all of our information then we'll be more than ready for tomorrow's deadline."

He really takes pride in his school work and is having fun with this collaborative report we had to do. Talk about multi-tasking. He's able to organize an underground resistance against a computer program, work on a way to defy the laws of physics to bring a virtual person into the real world and get all of his school work done without any mistakes. I swear when this is all over he's gotta start selling tapes on how to effectively micro manage your time.

"Wait!" He exclaims slapping the sides of his face like that kid from Home Alone.

My keen senses are telling me that a gigantic blunder has just taken place. Let's see double-check all the signs to see if I'm right.. Hmmm, wide-eyed shocked expression, hands on the side of the face, stiff posture. Yep, looks like Jeremie did make a huge mistake. Now what exactly happened I have no clue.

"How am I going to give these papers to Jordan?"

That's our friend Jeremie for you. A real whiz when it came to school but totally lacking in the common sense department.

"You put them in her hand, that's how."

"I would but I have no idea when I am going to see her. I should have asked for her dorm number when I had the chance."

Geez, talk about messing things up. I really wish I could help Einstein out but to put it bluntly, I

don't even know who this Jordan kid is. I mean she's in our class and all but I don't know her enough to actually ask where her room was. Doesn't it raise a stink when your friend needs help but you can't do anything about it? Luckily that statement only applies to me.

"I got this."

You can always count on Ulrich to bail you out of a nasty situation when the chips are down. Never would have figured that he knew Jeremie's mysterious lab partner. Einstein didn't bother to sweat such a small detail.

"Thanks a lot. You'll find my half of the report in a folder on top of my desk back at my room. I left the door unlock so you could just walk right in."

Weird, you'd think that if you had a room filled with all sort of precious documents and a computer that allowed you to talk to a virtual girl with pink hair in real time that locking your door would rank quiet high on the to-do list.

"Aren't you afraid of someone you don't know going inside?"

I guess Ulrich is thinking the same thing. Really this question is starting to bug me.

"I didn't think I would be here for long. You know how fast Odd eats as he chooses to inhale his food instead of chewing it like normal people."

Ehhhh, I'll give Einstein half a point for that remark. The punch line did its job but the execution was just horrible. This is why he should just stick to computers and leave the comic relief to the professionals. I swear, without me the entire group would just fall into the pits of dullness.

Man that sounds poetic. Better write that baby down and use it for my next English assignment. Teachers love it when you talk like that. It makes you sound smart.

"Maybe instead of sounding smart you should actually study and become smart."

Whoops, must have said that last part out loud. You gotta hand it to Ulrich, he knows when to exploit any openings for their fullest potential. While my pride was still reeling from that remark, Ulrich is already walking toward the door.

"Well, I might as well give those papers to Jordan now. The sooner she gets these the sooner we can all relax."

Don't say stuff like that. You always leave the conversation on such a serious note, like if you didn't do this simple errand the world would explode or something. Talk about being a killjoy. Oh well, nothing that a bite from Rosa's delicious blueberry muffins can't fix. Man I'm bored.

"Geez, Jeremie I'm bored."

"Well what about that special meeting Yumi has in store for us?"

I start to check my watch. Maybe time was being merciful to me and speed up at a ridiculous rate without me knowing. Oh please, please, pleeeeeeeeeease be true.

"She won't show up for another three hours."

Darn it! Why can't the laws of the space time continuum be broken when it's convenient for me? The day was dragging on like a lecture from Ms. Hertz and I had three more hours of this torture before something exciting would happen. This would be the part where I would take another bite from my muffin but I can't since I ate it all.

I could feel the restless energy building up. First it caused my finger to tap against the table; then it channeled to my feet which shot me up to a standing position. That's it! I can't take it! I'm going outside!

"Hey Odd, where you're going?"

"I need to get some air before I go insane!"

I think I saw Einstein blink a few times before I made my way to the door. I really need something fun to do. The others would kill me for wishing this but I wouldn't mind a small XANA attack right now. That would give me the perfect excuse to go to Lyoko. Maybe that's a bit too much. I think I'll just settle for another confrontation with the Troublesome Duo, they're always fun to mess with.

Jeremie lied to me. This folder was anything but easy to find. I had to sift through piles and piles of computer printouts, hand written notes and photocopied documents in order to find this thing which was a nightmare of a task. If he later ends up yelling at me for messing up his precious stack of papers then I'll just have to tell him that it was his fault for not getting this thing himself, as I'm not the one who's supposed to deliver his message.

Message...

That word brings up a lot of bad memories. Who would have thought a simple practical joke would cause me so much torment and to question my relationship with one of my closest friends? Those memories came back to me without warning as if I were to relive those moments right now.

It all started when a folded note was slid underneath my door. Handwritten and on notebook paper, the thing look like it was created on a whim giving its message a bit of a sympathetic edge to accompany the neat cursive writing etched onto it. I read the message's words of praise and

admiration until the last sentence which left me dizzy from shock.

...I love you.

Signed,

Yumi

At that very instant every nervous blush, and embarrassing encounter that I had with her was playing through my mind allowing me to recall even the smallest details with clarity. I felt as if a huge weight was lifted from my shoulders. No longer would I lose hours of sleep tossing and turning underneath my sheets, uncertainty pondering if those slight signs of affection directed toward me stemmed from romantic feelings or an innocent friendship. I could let myself go and profess to her about how these thoughts were mutual and that indeed we both wished for something closer.

Well that's originally what I thought. It was my fault for being so gullible as to trust a piece of paper with a note that anyone could have written. Come to think of it, I've never seen Yumi's signature so I had no proof to believe that the thing was genuine. I was so willing to take its word for fact that I never even bothered to double-check its authenticity. I sure acted like an idiot back then.

For a brief moment in my life I was able to lower the walls surrounding my heart just a bit more than I was used to. It's not a surprise to hear that out of us six, I'm the most emotionally reserved. To wear my heart on my sleeve..., that was something I wasn't able to do for a long time. It felt great, it might have left me a bashful mess with the girl I can't stop thinking of; but I was a happy bashful mess.

Keyword: was

I snap out of my mini flashback before my mood worsened. Already I was at Jordan's room when things started clicking in my head. Jeremie didn't not know the number on account of a simple oversight. The reason why Jeremie did not know which room Jordan stayed at was because he choose not to know. Jeremie had the highest grades in school for two reasons. One, because he was just plain smart, and two because he always took the necessary steps to turn his work in on time. There had to be a valid reason why such an elementary question was never asked, and after three knocks on the door the answer came to me.

"Hey Taelia..."

And that reason was Jordan's roommate. Taelia's first day in Kadic involved an ancient piece of samurai armor coming to life, several students and faculty members being sent to the hospital, Jin almost dying from organ damage and Jeremie nearly ending up behind bars. Even when things calmed down I never really saw Jeremie make an effort to talk to the girl. On the contrary,

it looked like he was avoiding her altogether. He must be really afraid that he might accidentally talk about or secret in her presence on account of how she looks eerily like Aelita.

How those two got along is of no consequence to me as I really don't like prying into people's personal lives. The others respect my privacy, so it only makes sense for me to do the same. I really wouldn't want any of the others to find out any of my secrets and hidden thoughts. I keep them locked away for a reason.

This is exactly why I volunteered to help Jeremie. If anything good came from Sissi's fake letter scheme, it was how the two of us met. Even though our war against XANA has lead me to make several close friends who I will never abandon; this whole fight in the end has made it even harder for me to talk to others outside of the team. On top of my own shyness, the whole secret keeping aspect of everything forces me to speak even less in the presence of others. XANA has been such a factor in our regular lives that I sometimes find myself just blurting his name without knowing it.

"...Is Jordan here?"

Taelia moves out to show me that her roommate sitting at her desk with her back facing me. I tap her shoulder as to get her attention.

"Hey Ulrich," she says in an indifferent tone. She must be working on the project as well I suppose.

My first meeting with Jordan is such a cherished memory for me. At that time I learned the value of knowing someone who was "normal". Talking about normal everyday things was so refreshing compared to the countless conversations I've had about Lyoko battles and XANA monsters. I could relax and live like everyone else, Jordan allows me to do this and I'm grateful. Well, I can think about the past on my own time. I have a job that needs finishing.

"Here, Jeremie wanted me to give this to you."

I hand Jordan the envelope and she takes it into her arms as if it were a newborn baby.

"Miles came home!"

Taelia steps in to explain this latest weird habit.

"That's what she named Jeremie's share of the assignment." Taelia giggles to herself which is starting to confuse me. "You should have been here when I first found this out. The whole time it was Miles this and Miles that. I thought she finally found a decent guy to swoon over as opposed to that Herb fellow."

"Taelia!" I can see her cheeks turn a dark shade of red. "Don't say things like that out loud!"

"Chill out, it's not like this is Ulrich's first time hearing this."

I sigh to myself. She was right about me knowing of Jordan's secret crush on the smartest member of Sissi's trio, but we've managed to keep that a secret between the three of us. It was because of this case of puppy love that the two of us became friends in the first place.

After Jeremie sent us back to the past I had plenty of time to think about my stupid mistakes. Sure those bees would never bother anyone again and we successfully stopped one of Sissi's pesky pranks but I didn't feel like celebrating those achievements. What I choose to think of was how much of a selfish jerk I was. The lives of all my classmates were in danger and all I cared about was some stupid fake letter that was slid under my door. People were screaming in fear in the real world and I never even raised my sword!

When Odd was being burned alive by hornet acid, I did nothing.

When Yumi and Aelita helplessly dodged laser fire and called my name, I did nothing.

When Jin aimed his rifle and angrily yelled at me for ignoring his sister, I did nothing.

Going back in time can fix a lot of things: injuries, building damages and even stupid social blunders; but what it can't take back are our memories of what really happened. What I said to Yumi on that day can never be taken back, and I'm only waiting for the moment when she rejects my feelings for her. It's only a matter of time. Sure we won but only at the last possible minute did I spring into action and save the day all by myself. Never before did doing the right thing feel so terrible.

I sat against a tree in the forest so I could further wallow in my own misery. School was over and my homework was done which meant I could sit and stare blankly into space until the sun rose. My secluded spot was not as isolated as I thought, as I realized someone else was with me. I heard a girl's voice coming from behind me and I slowly turned around to see what was happening. On the other side of the tree sat a girl my age writing in her notebook. One glance at her pale, orangeish-pink hair and I knew I was staring at my classmate Jordan Wild.

Like me, she too wanted to be left alone and saw the forest as the perfect place for this. Rested on her lap was a notebook that looked worn from much use. Frantically she scribbled on its pages only to pause in between to stare blankly into the treetops.

I felt guilty for spying on her. Doing something so sneaky was below me and I felt no better than Sissi who would always try her best to uncover our group's secrets. No longer did I watch Jordan for I couldn't stomach my actions; that was until I heard her spoke.

"I know things like this should be said face-to-face but I'm horribly shy and will have to put it in writing instead..."

What I heard was the beginning of a love letter. Eerily, it sounded like the opening sentence in the one Sissi sent me that day. I froze in place out of shock and I looked on, doing my best to not let those words remind me on how easily I fell for such a childish prank.

Jordan still had yet to realize that someone else was with her and kept reading.

"Not a day goes by that I don't think of you and these thoughts have driven me to the point where It's hard for me to concentrate on my studies. I should pay attention to what our teacher is saying but I can't stop myself from sneaking glances at you. I've never seen someone look so cute in green in my life."

She was writing about me! I could not believe my rotten luck! The whole reason why I was feeling so crummy was because I was sent a phony love letter. Just when I've managed to repair some of the emotional scars that I suffered because of Sissi's prank, I get to relive the whole wonderful experience for a second time!

Jordan continued narrating her thought process.

"I'm not exactly sure what love is so I'm not going to say that my feelings for you run that deep, but I do care greatly about you. The sheer thought of talking to you warms my heart and when I see you smile it just makes me feel happy inside as well. It is my dream for the two of us to spend more time with each other both in class and during our days off. I know you have your eyes set on another girl and I'm not asking you to ditch her for me. All I want to say is that I really like you and if you were to choose me then you would make me one happy girl. Sincerely, J.W."

Jordan's words cut straight through me and spoke to my inner being. She was a nice girl but I really could not take her up on her offer. There was someone else I was wishing to look my way and until she rejects me I will keep hoping for the better. I didn't want her to get her hopes up for nothing so I decided to expose myself and tell her the truth. It was going to be tough for her but at least she won't embarrass herself in front of everyone else like what I did.

"Hey Jordan."

As expected, she jolted out of shock and clutched her notebook to her chest. Seeing her panic was indeed a weird sight as Jordan was always praised for her cool head and unwavering resolve.

"H-hi Ulrich," that small stutter was all she gave me before her normal personality surfaced.

I didn't want this awkward moment any longer so I went straight to the point. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath; this was not going to be easy.

"Listen Jordan, you're a sweet person to know and all but I can't really see myself in a relationship with you."

I braced myself as I knew those words were going to turn her into a crying mess. No good would come from me doing this but it was something that needed to be done.

"Excuse me but I think you have the wrong girl."

As expected of Jordan. In class we would call her the "Unmovable Rock" on account that she would never lose her cool no matter what happened. It was a gift that not too many people my age had.

"Isn't that letter you're writing right now addressed to me?"

That had to be the second-most boneheaded thing I said within forty-eight hours. I was already crushing her romantic dreams as is. What better way to follow up with the damages than to tell her that I was secretly watching her the entire time? Way to go Ulrich Stern, you have the right combination of being a heart breaker and a creepy stalker.

A fleeting blush disappeared in flash and now she rose to her feet and stared a hole through me.

"Let me get this straight. You think I like you?" Her voice carried an accusing tone.

That glare sent chills down my spine. It was my turn to be the one stammering.

"T-that's what I heard."

"That...is...so...funny!"

Those were the words she managed to squeeze through while she was double-over laughing to the point where tears were welling in her eyes.

"Don't flatter yourself Ulrich; you're really not my type."

I was relieved to hear that she didn't have a crush on me. There were enough people at school stalking me already and the last thing I wanted was yet another person to deal with. However, I was almost certain that she was writing about me. This was a question that I desperately wanted to be answered so I went against my better judgment and asked.

"In your letter you said that the person you liked looked good in green."

"I did but I was never talking about you in the first place. Other boys in class are allowed to wear that color as well."

I swallowed hard after hearing that. Again I misunderstood someone's intention when it came to this sensitive subject. I was wrong when I thought that Yumi liked me and now I was wrong for a second time with Jordan. This whole thing felt so familiar with me that it was sickening. Even if I never wanted Jordan to be my girlfriend; hearing someone say that they have no interest in me should never be something I should get used to.

Jordan had stopped paying attention to me for her blush returned and she immediately brought up her hands to try to hide it from me. I look in the same direction to figure out what was going on and finally caught a glimpse of student who stole Jordan's heart. I saw him alright: skinny

frame, hair parted down the middle, face covered in acne and of course, a green sweater.

"Herb," I said softly.

Jordan kept her bashful look and nodded slowly.

"Yes, I like Herb."

I always thought that Jordan was a sensible girl. A person who always kept their head on their shoulders and could think things through rationally. For her to choose someone from Sissi's Gang to be her boyfriend was not like her. There just had to be a reason why. I think at that moment she saw that an explanation was needed. Maybe it was the huge laugh attack she had before but at that instant she decided that she could trust me.

"Can you keep a secret Ulrich?"

I swallowed again for I did not know what I was getting myself into. XANA attacks I can deal with, teenage drama was a whole different story.

"Yes."

"I know Herb isn't exactly what you call 'The Perfect Man' but he has his own unique charms about him."

"I can't say that I agree with you. Many girls avoid him on account of the acne alone."

"Well I don't care what they think! If they fail to see why he's such a wonderful guy then it's their loss!"

The level of emotion that came with that comeback was stunning. Jordan had been thinking long and hard on this subject.

"A handsome face is worth a dime-a-dozen here at Kadic. If you base your relationship solely on looks then its doomed from the start. All the things that people don't like about Herb: his skinniness, his "nerd" label, the acne that people are so fascinated about; those will change in due time. Herb would be the first person I'd choose to follow me around. He's smart and loyal. I've seen the awful things Sissi has done and said to him in the past, and yet he still stays by her side. A lesser man would have quit a long time ago, but Herb's better than that. He cares for her deeply and will endure anything just so he can stay by her side. Tell me Ulrich Stern, how many people you know - how many of those 'handsome faces' the girls drool over at Kadic - will do that? How many? How many!"

An uncomfortable still hung in the air after that speech. The lumps that had gathered in my throat made it impossible for me to speak, and all I could do was take small breaths to keep myself thinking straight. I too fell in the same category with all the shallow people Jordan hated so much. All this time I knew him I simply judged him on my first impressions and failed to see

the overwhelming good qualities that she saw right from the beginning. The fire that kindled in Jordan's eyes dimmed slightly once the harsh truth of liking such a person came to her. Herb was a great guy that she cherished but his heart was already reserved for someone else.

"You do know that he still likes Sissi right?"

"Of course I do! That's why its so hard for me to tell him how I feel. I mean I want him to be happy but I sometimes wonder if that girl values him as much as I do. If only he knew that I existed."

It was getting dark and it would be only a matter of time before Jim would start checking all of the rooms to see if we were all present. I had to leave soon but before I did I wanted to leave Jordan a few words of advice.

"I can't say what you should do but what you shouldn't do but what I can tell you is to be careful of what happens next. If you tell him what you told me and he doesn't feel the same way then it will be the most horrible feeling ever imaginable. However, not saying anything comes with its own share of problems as well. For even being rejected at least brings closure to everything. It might be a painful memory but at least you can move on with your life and stop worrying about the what-ifs. Don't rush yourself and just take your time and act when you're ready."

I was being more nosy with this than I should have been. When I think back to this day I kept trying to figure out what made me pry so much for so long and I think I've finally found my answer. Seeing Jordan's problems when it came to love reminded me so much about my own. Our problems were the same, just replace some names here and there and then you can see that we're acting out the same story except that I don't want any closure with mine. As long as it keeps on going maybe things will actually play out in my favor. I can daydream can't I?

"Are you daydreaming again Ulrich?"

My mind comes back to the present.

"Oops sorry."

"Wow, two daydreamers in my dorm. Why do I make friends with the absent-minded."

Leave it to Taelia to choose this moment to make a wisecrack about our situation. No matter where I go and who I hang out with, there's always someone who has to makes jokes at my expense.

"Hey!" We both yell back at the same time causing us to both laugh together. In order to calm herself down, Jordan grabs her beloved Gir stuffed animal and gives it a firm hug.

"Well excuse me you two, I was just trying to have some fun."

The comment is forgotten for Jordan's desire to work is kicking into gear. Already she's looking at "Miles" to see if Jeremie did everything he needed to do. I can tell when someone needs to be left alone so I use that as my excuse to leave but before I leave I need to get back at Taelia real quick. I remember how she reacted when Jeremie first talked to her and how peeved off she got with his simple questions. I just gotta see them for myself firsthand.

"Hey Taelia, did I ever tell you that you look very familiar to me?"

That came out a whole lot smoother that I thought it would. Odd's gift for telling jokes must be rubbing off on me.

"Oh geez, that was so lame. I thought I could just live out my days here in peace without hearing that tired old pick-up line."

I smile again. I'm glad that Jeremie gave me this chance to catch up with Jordan. I wonder what the others are doing now?

I'm soooooooooo bored. Really bored.

Eating breakfast did not kill as much time as I was hoping and now I'm a bored kid with a full stomach. I check my watch, yep there's still two hours left until we meet. Why oh why Yumi? Why did you schedule this so far away? You're killing me here.

I don't know how, but my aimless pacing sent me back to the outside of the dorms. Since I'm here, what can I do to kill time? Hmmm, well hanging out with Ulrich and Einstein is out of the question. I could play around with Kiwi for a while but he's sleeping and would be cranky.

Maaaaaan, did I tell you I was bored? If not I will say this, I...AM...B-O-R-E-D.

"Is there anything fun out there for me?"

"Who are you talking to Odd?"

I really gotta be careful on what I say out loud but I'm glad that only one person heard my plea. Though I'm completely clueless on who that is. Let me put a name to the voice.

"Hey there Milly."

Really I guessed before I turned around but I was right. Chalk that up to good luck. Gotta make some small talk or else she's going to think I'm acting weird.

"So what's up?"

"Just taking a break from writing for the school paper. Thought I could get some fresh air. To tell you the truth it's kinda feeling a bit dull right now."

Bingo Odd! You found something fun to do, take the bait and ask.

"Hey, maybe I can give you company when you get back to work. If anything, just to bounce creative ideas off of."

"That sounds great."

Wow, the last time I saw Milly this happy was when Ulrich agreed to be her date for the prom. I could tell she wanted to get back to writing on account she was running as fast as she could get back to her computer. That girl can run fast when she wants to. She should try out for the track team next year as we got to her dorm ridiculously quick. Ok, either she's just a gifted runner or its true that all reporters have super powers: Clark Kent, Peter Parker, Vic Sage, Ran Hibiki; see a pattern here?

"Tamiya, I'm back!"

"Hey Milly. Hey Odd." She greets us with a quick glance before she shifts her attention back toward the footage being replayed on her camera.

I make myself comfortable and grab a nearby chair so I could rest my feet while Milly goes back to her computer. Even though I was invited to come here I can't help but feel like I'm being an intruder. Whenever those two worked together a special kind of energy hung in the air that was unique to them and them only.

Being the official reporters for Kadic, Milly and Tamiya were a bit more known around campus compared to your average student. In addition to occasional waves and smiles, their position also gave them a jealous enemy by the name of Sissi Delmas. Mainly she makes insults about their age and lack of maturity, like she's the one to talk. I just wish she could wise up and really see how cool of a pair Milly and Tamiya really are, like I've done.

An instant message is sent Milly's way and she let's everyone know so.

"This is crazy!"

"This is crazy!"

Those three words sure took me back. That's exactly what she screamed when she saw the pile of rubble blocking us from the exit. I didn't expect to find anyone else in the dorms when I first ran in to save Kiwi after Mr. Delmas ordered that evacuation but things never go smoothly for us. I thought I could just walk out the same way I came in but XANA had other plans and he let me know of this by wrecking the staircase. Yeah, that guy can be pretty direct when he wants to be.

The entire building began to shake like a bad serving of Jello at the cafeteria but that was the least of our worries. The mini-earthquake had damaged the floor section which made it give way, turning it into a gigantic slide. I remember Jim scolding us for treating the place like a playground but this was ridiculous... yeah that was cliché, I know. XANA's ultrasounds had managed to turn our dorm building into his own little deranged fun house of death like the kind I saw on TV 'cept this one had less buzzsaws and evil puppets. The three of us were all doing our best Spiderman impression and stuck to the floor so that we wouldn't slide off. We were safe, but for how long I couldn't tell.

For the first time in a long while I was scared. Not the good kind of scared you get when you watch a classic horror movie marathon with the lights out but the kind of scared that makes your knees shake and your heart beat just a little bit faster. If I messed up now, not only could I die but also Milly, Tamiya and Kiwi. Being responsible for the safety of three other people is enough to make anyone's teeth start chattering.

I know I'm going to sound stupid for admitting this but I never really saw XANA attacks that dangerous, in fact I welcomed them. Whenever he decided to rear his ugly head I could count on having an excuse for going to Lyoko and wasting a few baddies while doing the latest set of extreme tricks I've managed to pick up. Not to mention whenever we returned to the past whatever goof ups and bad things that came my way before I could easily fixed. Believe me when I say that XANA is one of the reasons why I've managed to pass Ms. Hertz's multiple choice exams. There's only so many times I can circle A and get it wrong before I learn the right answer.

No, this was different, now I'm the one in danger. Real danger is a whole lot scarier than virtual violence. Losing all your life points here meant getting a whole lot more than just the "Game Over" screen. The next move I was going to make had a lot riding on it so it had to be good. When the floor you were standing on takes a dive bomb, it's about time to head for higher ground or in this case lower ground.

"It's not safe here. We have to cross over to the other side. If we stay, we're finished."

"Are you out of your mind Odd?" Tamiya yelled back. "That's gotta be a ten meter drop!"

What I was asking for those two to do ranked pretty high on the "Crazy Meter" I'll admit but if I didn't do anything that would motivate them to move then things would get ugly. I'd be a liar if I said that I wasn't scared of my own idea but I had to put on a brave face. If there was one thing about being a hero I learned it was to never let anyone else know how frightened you really were.

"Nothing bad is going to happen to you. I know this sounds crazy, but you gotta trust me on this. We'll make I through, I promise you that."

When you ask someone to do something totally stupid, talk is cheap. Gotta show them that I'm willing to put my money where my mouth is. I made sure that Kiwi was secure in my arms before

I let gravity do its work and slid down. I could see the ground coming up closer and I held Kiwi tighter for the landing was not going to be graceful. I shot over the wide gap underneath me when I ran out of floor to slide across and touched down without a scratch.

"Odd!" They yelled out.

I set Kiwi on the floor and looked up. The height difference between us was a whole lot bigger than I had imagined but the big gaping pitfall at the edge of my feet was a whole lot scarier to look at.

"Ok you two, it's your turn now."

Tamiya didn't need much coaxing but Milly was different.

"I know you're scared but you need to come down here. Things are going to get ugly fast and I would really hate to see you get hurt."

Poor girl, she really was scared and here I thought that watching her best friend and my handsome self take the plunge would be enough proof that this thing was a walk in the park.

"I-"

The building shook again, much harsher than before. That was the final push that got Milly's rear end in gear. It was a real nail bitter I tell you; the kind of scene in a movie where you just stare with your mouth gaping open with bits of popcorn falling from the side. I had full faith that she was going to be fine but those nerves were still there in full force. When her feet had hit floor I think that's when I allowed myself to exhale but I wasn't let off the hook so easily. Milly didn't do a great job sticking her landing and started flailing her arms wildly to regain her footing. In the world of gymnastics such a mistake would result in only a two point deduction from the judges but over at Kadic, you might fall to your death.

To those of you who're expecting a gore-fest, I'm sorry to disappoint. No one's going to die on my watch and my lightning fast reflexes had once again saved the day. Gravity didn't stand a chance once I grabbed on Milly's arm and pulled her away from the edge. The worst was far from over but at least the tension had eased up just a tad bit. Already I was thinking of our next escape plan but I just couldn't think straight. Someone was typing away at their keyboard and it was seriously cramping my style.

Wait, I don't remember standing next to a computer during all this.

I snap out of my daze to see Milly hacking away at her keyboard at a pace that could bring a smile to Einstein's face. I have no idea how much time passed since I took that little trip down memory lane so I ask.

"Hey, how long was I staring off into space."

Tamiya knows fully well that I'm talking to her and she spins her chair around to look me right in the eye.

"You mean when you were doing your best impression of a deer caught in the headlights of an oncoming car?"

That analogy was a bit too morbid for me but I roll with the punches.

"Yeah."

"Oh about fifteen seconds. I was checking the timer on my camera at that exact moment."

Man, if time flies when you're having fun, then it must drag when you're reliving a XANA attack while giving a really deep mental monologue to an imaginary studio audience. Why producers resort to such a gimmick to pad their shows, I'll never know.

Tamiya can sense that I'm about to ask another stupid question and leans in to give me the straight talk before I even open my mouth.

"You're probably going to ask why she's so excited huh?"

I keep my trap shut just to be funny and give her a nod.

"There's only one reason why she'd be so lively. It's probably Vafer."

As a prouder reader of the school newspaper, I didn't need a refresher course on who that guy is. He might be just a guest writer with no real affiliation to the press staff but you can always count on him to submit something with each new edition. He's an excellent writer, I'll give him that, but that's all anybody knows about him.

The gears in my head were rotating now. This is a rare chance for me to get a little more about Kadic's little ghost writer straight from one of the people who know him the most. I'm not planning to throw these bits of info to all the gossip queens, I'm just curious. I am dressed up as a cat in Lyoko after all.

"How long have you two been working with him?"

Tamiya puts her hands on her hips and gives me a bit of a glare but she then smiles once she realizes that I could keep a secret.

"Well he's always been indirectly involved with the school paper but it's only been a few months since he's really stepped up with his material."

"Wait, indirectly involved? How the heck can someone be indirectly involved with the paper?"

"It's not like he automatically wrote those long essays from get go. In the beginning he started off small, you know typical stuff: writing to the staff, leaving suggestions and making little reviews about movies that would come out. It was easy to recognize his entries. I mean he signed them all with the name 'Vafer' for crying out loud. That's a name that you don't easily forget. Then things started to change."

See, this would be the moment when the creepy foreboding music would start playing in movie land but this is real life and real life never comes with a soundtrack. What a bummer.

Tamiya looks up at the ceiling either she was going to tell me on killer of a story... or else she was just trying to remember what happened. Knowing my rotten luck she was doing the second thing.

"Changes? Now you better tell me something good if you're going to work a dramatic pause like that."

Oh please Tamiya, tell me that you got some serious dirt on Vafer that's gonna blow me away like him being an alien, time traveler or an ESPer.

"The writings that Vafer submitted to the paper began to shift in focus. They grew longer and longer and addressed topics and became more insightful, like social commentary. We first noticed this when he talked about a small student movement who were trying to get their confiscated cell phones back."

I remember reading that article. It was when XANA used our school's antenna to get control of a high-tech military satellite. Now I know what you're thinking. "But Odd, didn't you go back in time and post that little flier up on the school cafeteria to stop something like that from happening." Well anonymous poster, the answer is yes but in another classroom a few kids ignored our advice and got their mobiles taken away. Those students try to organize a small movement but was nowhere as successful as Sissi's when she did the same thing. As a result Vafer wrote that very same article to share his beliefs with the rest of the school's. Just goes to show you that even with a Return to the Past Trip, we can't completely stop certain things happening.

"And pretty much after that he's been writing seriously for the paper."

"It's amazing really. Vafer is able to see the problems that go by unnoticed and address them with a sense of honesty that makes his words sound sincere instead of arrogant. Talent like that is hard to teach as our editor once said. He's a real natural."

Milly picks up on her partner's comments and joins in on the conversation as to make sure my view of Vafer would not be distorted.

"Pretty much now we've been letting him submit his own articles and evaluate our own. We ran this idea by the editor and he's completely fine with it."

"Whoa, he's actually going to be a full-fledged writer for the paper?"

I gotta give the guy my respect. To go from casual reader to full time staff member is quiet the jump if you ask me.

"Well, yes and no. He's not a featured staff member per say but he does have a bit more leeway when it comes to the length of his articles along with their subject matter. He still operates on his on schedule and can submit something when he wants to."

"I bet he was excited when you told him all that."

"Not really..."

Milly lowers her head and begins tapping her fingertips uneasily against each other.

"We haven't told him his yet. I...I...really wish I could see his face when I break the news to him. He's a real fascinating person to talk to."

Is she blushing? I want to say something but Tamiya is just too quick for me.

"You're blushing Milly. Oh my, wouldn't that make Ulrich jealous."

My roommate better watch out as he's got some competition now if he wants to steal this girl's heart though I'm just kidding. I can see that Milly's obvious crush on him is slowly starting to fade to just simple admiration. After those two went out to the prom, I think she could tell that he's saving his heart for a certain Japanese girl. I have to admit though, this Vafer dude sounds like quiet the fellow to meet. Wonder what's up with the whole dual identity thing anyway? Watch, he's even going to go as far as to change his appearance by wearing glasses. This would be utterly cool if that really happened.

The cell phone in my pocket beeps loudly. I kinda forgot how I set an alarm for myself for today's meeting and I'm making sure that I show up on time because the suspense of it all is just driving me bat crazy.

"And that's my signal to get out of here. Nice talking to you girls, it's been a real time killer."

Tamiya gives me a small wave goodbye and her partner is too busy talking to her online friend to care about me leaving. Oh boy, this better be good.

Aniki and I arrived at the tree fifteen minutes early. We finally had some time off and I was going to make sure that our little break would be well spent. I hope the guys remembered to wear something they can move around in or else things are going to get a bit tough for them.

"So you're ready for this?"

As always I have to speak over the music playing in his ear. I've never seen someone wear a pair of headphones as long as he does, amazing how his hearing is still in good condition.

"Course I am sis! Who do you take me for?"

Not a day goes by that I'm not grateful that Aniki came back home after spending two years in the United States. Before then I used to take advantage of his presence and never saw how much I really valued him as an older brother. The other girls in class say that they envy how close we are. We never fight, and we look out for each other. They ask me how it's possible for the two of us and I really don't have an answer for them. Then again, things were not always like this. There was a point in my life where I was hesitant to call Jin Aniki but that's something I don't want to think about.

Jeremie is the first to show up which surprises no one. Good, he's wearing his gray PE outfit as he knows that capris and a turtleneck are not the most ideal clothes to bring if you want maximum movement. Odd's next which is a huge shocker to say the least. Mister Tardy himself is actually on time for once in his life. Either he's changing his bad habits or is just curious on what I'm planning.

He has to be curious.

"I can't take it any longer Yumi! Oh please you gotta give me some answers. You just gotta!"

"Wow, I'm amazed that you've arrived on time."

I can just see the sadness in his eyes when I don't tell him what he wants. I'm stalling purposely just so he can anguish in his excitement just a bit more. He's always giving me grief about having a crush on Ulrich so it's only fair that I turn the tables on him when I get a chance. This is quite satisfying.

"Oh c'mon."

He's really squirming now. Geez, I didn't think he'd get this worked up. Now I really got to rub it in.

"Hey everyone."

Ulrich chooses this very moment to show up looking without a care in the world walking in his typical "Ulrich Pose." You know the deal: head bowed, shoulders slightly slumped and both hands in his pockets. Just one glance his way and I could see that something was on his mind.

It's the look on his face that gave it away really. Even when he called us out you could tell that his focus wasn't toward us or anything part of the outside world for he's looking within. Of course if I ask him if something is wrong he'd just deny it. He's not the type of person who

would share his problems with others as he doesn't want to burden them. Such a gesture is so sweet in yet a sad way. It sort of reminds me of someone else I know a certain older brother who's always wearing red and insists on rolling up the left sleeve of his jacket. I look into his sad green eyes as if doing so will tell me what I want to find out.

His deep...emerald...gentle eyes.

Whoa wait Yumi, watch yourself! You can't be thinking of stuff like that especially in front of the guys. You have an important lesson to teach.

"YUMI!"

I can no longer bring myself to ignore Odd's pleading and when I say that what I really mean is that I've ran out of valid excuses to delay my "special event."

"After all the XANA attacks that have came our way, I think it's important that we all had a self-defense brush up session but before we're caught off guard again."

Did I see Odd jump six feet in the air? "Pick on Yumi Week" must have done more damage to me than I originally thought.

"It's about time we had one of these things! We were about to a while back but Jeremie showed us his wonderful ability in recreating test tubes and the whole thing was dropped. I got a few new moves that I'm dying to show off."

"But before we actually get to the sparing, Aniki and I have a little lecture to give to you all."

I think Odd's heart just broke.

"Don't worry, we'll get to the good stuff later. It's just that there are a few thoughts on fighting theory that we'd like to share with you all."

He shrugs his shoulders. Boy, that was a fast recovery.

"As expected from our battle commander."

"Battle commander?" I say again.

I know he's joking but it's still pretty strange to be addressed in such a manner. Ever since we started fighting in Lyoko we've always wondered about who we saw as the role of the leader. It was never a big deal or anything, as we saw each other as equals, but the issue keeps coming up from time to time and it's really getting quite bothersome. Of course I knew he was joking.

Aniki's eyes just light up like fireworks after hearing this and I prepare myself for the worst.

"We have job descriptions now!" He's really beside himself with joy. "Can I be the doctor?"

Before we all can decipher the meaning of the request, Aniki shifts a majority of his weight to the side as if he was resting on an invisible cane. His expression darkens and he gives us all a steely look. Oh no, I know what's coming up next.

"It's not Lupus."

He finishes his little impression of the famous TV doctor by miming to swallow a dosage of Vicodin. We all sigh at his antics and then the lesson begins.

Honestly folks, I thought I did a great Greg House impression; oh never mind. When sis told me that she wanted to have a small training session in the forest I told her it would be a great idea. Thinking of my limited experiences with her friends I can never recall a time where all of us had a good scrap in the name of bettering ourselves.

It takes a special type of courage to fight in the real world. In Lyoko you're pumped up with cheat codes: extra health, super radar, super speed, ultra endurance, painkillers and weapon upgrades. On Earth we're forced to fight "fair" and let's not forget that we're not exactly fighting humans either. My first encounter had me up against a giant teddy bear that smacked a chair at me! Ask your sensei what to do when you're fighting a bulldozer or a mutant rat army. Go ahead. I triple-dog-dare you to get up from your chair, pick up the phone and ask your local martial arts teacher this very same question.

Wait, I change my mind! Oh please don't leave me.

Whew thanks, you scared me for a second. Now what was my old train of thought? Oh yeah! Virtual reality fighting.

As I was saying, you can't make the same mistakes on Earth as on Lyoko as out there the words "Game Over" mean a whole lot more. When sis and I fought that weird clone of her we barely escaped with our lives. We all need this special session.

Sis cuts right to the chase and begins talking.

"Today's lecture, Aniki and I will highlight the difference between using your arms and using your legs. As you all know, in the real world of martial arts using different limbs is like wielding a unique weapon. Although they are all connected to your body, it is of utmost importance to learn their unique qualities in order to get a better understanding of your own abilities."

Yumi and Jin, it only makes sense that those two would have such a deep understanding of the martial arts. Being the one with the least experience here it was great to see them present their expertise in a more formal manner.

"Arm strikes are usually simplistic and very effective to use..."

It didn't shock any of us to see Yumi spearheading this portion of the presentation. Whenever I would watch her practice I would always be in awe of her powerful and graceful movements. Each strike carried untold amounts of strength yet she still would wear the most peaceful expression I'd see in my life.

"When talking about arm strikes, most people think of the simple punch. However do not neglect the other areas where you can make contact with your opponent: forearms, elbows and your palms. Besides this, it is possible to use your hands to grapple your opponent which is vital if you wish to employ the use of throws and counters within your fighting style."

Oh boy, I can already tell what's going to happen. Things are going to get messy.

"Don't neglect the use of your lower body sis..."

Jin can get riled up so easily at times it's kind of pathetic. When Yumi gave her little lecture you could easily tell that she intended to provoke her brother's competitive spirit. He's so proud of his passions and will not hesitate to defend them in an overly emotional manner.

"Kicks are naturally stronger than punches and have great range due to their length. Plus with kicks it's much easier to attack your opponent's legs thus immobilizing them for your finishing strike."

"Of course what Aniki fails to mention is that it's much easier to evade a kick rather than a punch on account that they're easier to spot. Those flashy leaping roundhouses of yours look pretty but if they don't connect then they're just for show."

She's doing this intentionally, that's the only sane conclusion I can come up with. Indeed this has to be sibling rivalry in the purest form. Quite the touching sight.

"Then again sis forgets how easily you can cripple another person's offense with a simple kick to their legs!"

Oh dear, it's safe to say that the Ishiyama siblings were no longer trying educate us on fighting theory and were more interested in besting each other.

"Maybe we should skip to sparring sis?"

"My thoughts exactly!" Yumi's reply came with a little smirk that she only uses when her competitive spirit. "Let's see what you learned in America when you face off against Ulrich."

"Ulrich?"

"Why not?"

I see that Ulrich is already in his fighting stance and calmly waits for his opponent to prepare himself. Not even a second after Jin is ready for combat do I notice the younger fighter making the first move. A powerful roundhouse kick strikes the oldest team member square in the jaw. I'm really glad that whenever we spar we make a cautious effort not to hit each other with full force so that no one is seriously injured. Still, holding back or not that kick had enough force behind it to show his opponent that this was a serious fight.

Whenever our group has a sparring session like this I make sure to take notes on all the matches I watch, this one being no exception. Although fighting on Earth and in Lyoko possess different dynamics, the overarching strategies of combat are quiet similar. To win in a fight one must control space, flow and seize openings wherever they appear. If I can understand and analyze the flow of a battle then I can better understand the tactics XANA uses to counter us whenever he attacks.

That reminds me. I should thank Jin someday for letting borrow his copy of The Art of War.

If I were Ulrich, my first instinct would to be to capitalize the disorientation my opponent is currently feeling by unleashing another powerful attack. Seeing Ulrich chamber his back leg for another roundhouse sent chills down my spine.

I can't believe this. I actually read and predicted the flow of the battle accurately. Did that just happen because of my studying? If that is true then this is great. Maybe I can do more for my friends then just sit in a chair with my fingers crossed. There's only one way to find out if my readout was a fluke or not and that is through more observation.

Ulrich's opening kick really put Jin in a bad spot as he's practically defenseless for the next attack and if he gets hit more one time I would feel the compelling urge to stop them myself. Already I see Ulrich's foot in mid-air flying toward the same spot he struck before. Out of nowhere Jin lashes his leg out and smashes itself into the other limb before any damage can be done. Ulrich is still pushing his offense and fires off three more kicks with this same leg which are aimed at Jin's leg, torso and chest. Even under such an intense barrage of strikes Jin manages to still counter all the blows coming his way with just his right leg.

I can't believe what I'm seeing. Even though his is a training session, it doesn't take a genius to figure out that those two are getting pretty serious as they were mirroring the other's stance perfectly. I think it is safe to say that this fight is far from over.

Odd told me Jin loved to use his legs a lot when fighting but I never would have thought that he would use them for defense as well. No time to admire his technique, if I don't take away his momentum soon, I'm going to lose the small lead I gained. All I have to do is get back into my normal stance and I can resume my offense.

Jin lowers his leg only to chamber it for a quick roundhouse that smacks into my chest and I take a step backwards to recover my balance. He's fast I'll give him that but in all honesty that kick

was really weak. I've seen his type of fighter before; quick attacks, solid technique but almost no power. The kind of person who has to throw out twice as many hits before they can put someone down.

Crud! I just misjudged my situation because right now I'm looking at the bottom of Jin's foot as it flies toward my face coming from an impressive sidekick. If he leaves a shoe print behind then that I'm really going to be mad.

WHAM!

Ok now, that hurt! He actually managed to hit me in the forehead but I can't stop now to collect myself. I need to shake the cobwebs out now or else I'm going to be nothing more than just a punching bag to this guy. Don't think too hard Ulrich, that's not your strongest point. Keep an open mind, wait for an opening then let him have it.

There!

I don't contemplate my actions and just go for the attack. My front snap kick catches Jin right in the chest and makes him take a few steps back so that he can catch his breath. This is it, now I turn this whole thing around. I'll show the new guy that just because I'm a younger than him doesn't mean I'm no pushover. No more cheap shots, time to go all out.

Eh? That's quite strange, Yumi is running over here. Wonder what she wants from us?

This little sparring session has taken a turn to the absurd. Ulrich and Jin are both laying on the floor after being blindsided by Yumi and Odd. I did not see this coming, not at all.

"Hey why the sneak attack? I thought this was supposed to be a fair fight." I yell out to the two.

"It is, Einstein!" Odd hollers back. "Yumi wanted to switch dance partners. I happily agreed."

Odd's smile only made that statement that much more creepy but I keep my mouth shut and continue to watch the fight. Ulrich is the first to recover and quickly takes the offense by throwing out a left hook which Odd barely manages to duck in time only to counter with a handstand kick to the chin.

Both Ulrich and I are too stunned to comment. Such a coordinated maneuver was never used by Odd before as he had a more traditional fighting style much like his roommate. A shiver ran down my spine, he's trying something new.

"You like?" He taunts, still supporting himself with one arm and wearing a cheerful smile. His second hand presses against the pavement allowing him to generate momentum so that he could spin on the palms of his hands.

A mental image of a helicopter's propeller shoots into my mind as I watch this furious barrage of spinning kicks smash into Ulrich's forearms threatening to break his guard any minute. It was no secret that Odd loved to flaunt is break-dancing talents but now he's wielding those dynamic movements for a brawl rather than a dance off. In the back of my mind a little voice is constantly reminding about the match between Yumi and Jin going on concurrently but I could care less for it.

"Capoeria?" Jin yells in astonishment. His overexcited exclamation causes me to finally look away just in time to watch our oldest team member take a back shoulder thrust to the chest.

Yumi wouldn't let such a wide opening slip by her and she smiles as she watches her brother fall to the floor. Already I'm thinking the fight is over. Yumi's shoulder thrust is one of her best techniques. In the hands of an amateur like me, it was able to force open a jammed door; I shudder to think at the damage an expert fighter like her can cause.

Jin doesn't hit the ground all the way. Quickly he puts his hands behind his head kicks his feet into the air in order to get back on his feet. His right leg lashes out into a powerful back kick that connects cleanly with Yumi's shoulder, pushing her back a couple of feet.

"I'm going to be feeling that one in the morning sis." Jin compliments.

I see that mischievous grin creep on Yumi's face.

"Well it's your fault for not paying attention to the fight."

He shrugs.

"Heh, I'm a dance fan, so sue me."

Goosebumps crawl over my arms as I watch this fight unfold. Yumi and Jin always got along so well unlike a good portion of the siblings at Kadic so to see them fight each other with such intensity is an eye opener at least.

They clash again, their opposite styles and methods being put to work in ways my limited knowledge of martial arts could not comprehend. I see legs meet forearms, punches barely grazing necks, it's too surreal for me. Yumi lands a heavy chop right to the side of her brother's head while being kicked in the mid-section at the same time. The two twins back off from each other and take a huge breath to calm themselves at the same time.

Suddenly Jin switches his stance and already I'm trying my best to figure out his strategy. Let's see, strong legs that are deeply rooted to the floor, one extended arm bent at a ninety degree angle….oh my gosh! That's Yumi's stance! A stance suited for a rock solid defensive game ready to exploit holes in the enemy's technique.

I'm almost too stupefied to pay attention to what Yumi is doing and I see she has adopted Jin's bouncy, quick stepping footwork. Within a blink of an eye, I have seen the Ishiyama twins

switch fighting styles as if it's the easiest thing in the world. I can feel the grass and soil underneath my fingertips as I grip the ground in excitement. What sort of crazy results would such a reckless gamble yield?

Apparently, it would be laughter.

"Is that how I stand, Aniki?" Is the question Yumi manages to force out while still clutching her sides in laughter. "It's so sloppy! I can knock you down with just my index fighter."

"Oh yeah?" Jin snorts. "Wearing thick boots is quite counter-productive to bouncing around. You're as agile as a block of lead with those things."

Laughter is indeed infectious. No sooner did a few giggles escape from the twins, then Odd, Ulrich and me hit the ground from a case of the sillies. We could all agree that our training session is now over.

Jeremie went back to his room while Odd and Aniki went to look for more ways to pass the time. That just leaves Ulrich and I alone at the park bench we like to meet at every morning. When I was watching him spar against Odd I could see the slight hesitations in his attacks which can only mean there was something big on his mind.

Our breaths are still a bit heavy from all the training we did so to just sit down and relax is perfectly fine by me. Ulrich squeezes his hand into a fist. I begin to worry.

"Something on your mind?"

I see him trying to sort the thoughts out in his head so that he can express his concerns easily. He looks so cute right now.

No Yumi, keep your head straight.

I haven't mentioned this to anyone before so I beg of you to keep it a secret please. This vulnerable side he unconsciously displays is one of the most endearing qualities about him. Ulrich has every reason in the world to have an ego to rival Sissi's. He's a star soccer player, boyishly cute and has a gentle personality. At first I hung around him just because of my obligations to help out with XANA, but as I spent more and more time with him, I couldn't help but be drawn to him. Just thinking more about Ulrich is causing me to blush a bit.

"Here."

I take a water bottle from my backpack and hand it to him in order to help him collect his thoughts and to divert attention from my flustered face.

"Thanks Yumi."

He takes a quick sip which is more than enough time for me to "recover." He talks again.

"It's just that I'm sorry for what I said when Sissi wrote that fake letter. You must have felt really awkward there."

Awkward is a bit of an understatement there.

"I think it's best if we don't talk about it."

Ulrich wears a smile that shows both relief and disappointment at my suggestion. Yeah I know, this is a real stupid move on my part. That day was pretty much him confessing his love for me and I ignored the issue. I would always wonder what he felt about me and yet even with such a clear sign I'm still did not tell him about my feelings. I guess the whole notion of having a romantic relationship scares me a bit more than I originally thought. It's best that we stay friends in order to keep things simple between us.

"Did you have fun sparring against Odd?"

Ulrich excitedly talks about his match and I get to share his enthusiasm. It is only a matter of time before we start acting like our normal selves and pass the time just talking about nothing.

If only we can stay this carefree and close forever. I smile and look toward the red and orange sky. This had been one great day.

END

Sorry for the slow update its just that real life keeps getting in my way. This by far is an experimental chapter in The Retelling Series as it both conveys a new storyline while at the same time briefly touching upon the episodes "Swarming Attack", "The Trap" and "Just in Time." I know I cheated you out of three potential Retellings but as I watched these episodes, I could not think up of as many variations to the central storyline as I did with past chapters so instead of just rehashing the plot I decided to make this original episode.

However the other reason why I did such a move is because I needed to get those episodes out of the way in order to make way for the next big chapter I will write. Now, I won't go into too many details but I will say you will get answers. I'm not telling you what answers but you will get some.

Thanks to Zeakari who let me use her ACC Jordan Wilde as she won my last art contest.