Council of Masters (Kashima Pt. 2)

Dreams, they were the spice that made life worth living, and some might say that it was only natural for every child to have a dream.

For Elise, dreams had always been something of an odd thing. Her dreams, her ambitions had largely been defined by her surroundings, as the daughter of the Von Eisenberg and with a clear aptitude for medicine and medical studies it was only natural that people expected for the burgundy-haired lass to someday take over the legacy of her parents. Although, for Elise her desire to learn the art of the medical craft was not something as traditional as an obligation to her family. Not once did Elise feel that it was her duty, her task to become the successor to the Von Eisenberg their studies. That much was clear.

The reason Elise von Eisenberg had once pursued the medical craft was, simply said the thing people commonly call: love

It was that selfsame emotion that had driven her to transfer to Yuuei, to seek out the path of one that society often refered to as a 'hero'. When she felt powerless, she started seeking the power to protect those she loved, and no love was as immense as the one she had harbored for her knight. It was a innocent desire, the desire to become capable of wielding the power to save the one most dear to her, to ensure that no matter what harm might come to pass, Tetsuko Shindou would always be saved by her. It was that very selfsame emotion that was currently destroying her from within.

Love could often be so beautiful, but also oh so painful...

As Gai was escorting the two girls toward the school's primary hall Elise still felt herself haunted by the recent events. The storehouse that now stood in place of the ancient tree they had made their vows at, their promise to always remain at each other's side. The words spoken by Tetsuko... It was as if everything was trying to destroy the evidence, the presence of the knight she had adored for so long, the one she stubbornly clung to within her memories. Even as ice cream was foregone in favor for a quick escort into the city's heart Elise noticed the built up areas were swiftly dropping and the old-fashioned architecture shined through the area. In particular of note was the very large eastern building that she remembered as the Shindou's Kashima estate, the primary training hall for the branch of the Jikishinkage-ryu, the one thing that had been there in Tetsuko's life for gods know how long.

Gai's words made her raise her head lightly, a brief nod of her head following in affirmation that she was willing to follow and quietly without saying a word she chased his footsteps, swiftly departing through the side exit of the grand Japanese structure, into something which appeared to be a set of changing rooms just to the side of the main hall itself. Looking clearly bewildered at the traditional uniform Elise couldn't help but blink in confusion as she turned toward Gai, as if to expect an answer, one she received soon afterwards. So she was to serve as a guest to the meeting, seemingly given permission to attend thanks to Gai's involvement. She was at least a girl who knew manners, and so upon his explanation she grasped the uniform and stepped into the changing room. Although it took longer than Tetsuko did, when Elise stepped outside it was clear that the girl's presence felt different, perhaps it were the clothes, or the way she had tied her hair together, the usual hairclip she was wearing in her hair, a memento from her knight seemingly oddly absent.


The burgundy-haired lass lifted the sleeved arms of the uniform lightly, as if inspecting herself upon which she would finally approach Gai, trying her utmost to focus on his words and not distract herself with the gloomy thoughts haunting her mind. She nodded attentively at the mentioning of the six masters and Ryouichi Shindou, the man's name sending a chill across her spine as she recalled stories and glimpses of just how strict Tetsuko's grandfather could be.

Fortunately, it seemed the people attending this meeting would not all be foreigners to her. Tetsuko's father would be there, alongside Gai, then there was an one-armed woman called Uwabami, the twins Taniguchi, the four-eyes, wait a man with glasses perhaps? Either way Ueno, Taniguchi, Uwabami, Masaru, Gai and Ryouichi himself. She quietly followed after him, the feeble whispers leaving her lips seemingly suggesting she was memorizing their names.

Elise didn't knew what to expect if entirely honest, and she felt both nervous and intimidated by what was about to come, she nodded her head in return to show she was ready for what was about to follow, and with Gai sliding the door open, revealing the grand training hall and its inhabitants the burgundy-haired lass froze for a moment, the hand next to her body, close to Tetsuko's remained shut, as if she didn't expect anything this time, but the slight tremble suggested she was quite nervous, but rather than seeking a knight who wouldn't protect her any longer, she instead slipped behind Gai, just enough to be visible as she waited for Gai to proceed, recalling the earlier instructions and being prepared to reenact them with pinpointed precision.

It seemed that court was in session, but if this was a trial then who was the defendant, and what was her role in all this? Was she just a spectator? Was that all she had ever been, a guest in Tetsuko's existence? She didn't want to think it, she didn't want to imagine that Tetsuko Shindou thought that little of her, but what answers did Gai hope to show her by allowing the burgundy-haired lass to attend this mysterious meeting where she was clearly an outsider? Was there truly anything Elise von Eisenberg could do?

A trial was usually held to discover the truth, did this mean that Tetsuko was being accused of something? She didn't know, so much about it didn't made sense, and yet seeing Tetsuko there by her lonesome self made it clear she was the defendant, her 'crime' unclear, and that the judge was nobody less than the famous Ryouichi Shindou, the girl's very own grandfather. The burgundy-haired lass remained silent, not sure what to think, not sure what to expect.

As they entered the room, now more than ever Elise felt alone, alone in a cold and intense place and yet she couldn't help but make just the smallest of glimpses at Tetsuko, the resolute look upon the girl's face making the lass wonder: What was truly the nature of this meeting? The way people were kneeling against the mats, spares of which were found close to the entrance reminded her of a long dinning table, yet this was far from the pleasant atmosphere that one would find at a dinner. Tetsuko's grandfather was clearly the head of this gathering, and when he turned his gaze upon them, Elise felt that same pressure from before threatening to crush her.

The other masters were equally intimidating in their own right. Closest on his right was a man, an older individual who was mature but had this presence she had often come to associate to the powerful seniors of the martial arts community, and those discerning eyes made her wonder just what wisdom lurked behind them. Next to Ueno's side were a much younger duo, perhaps only a few years older than Elise herself, but by now she had learned to judge a book by its covers. The way they turned practically in unison made her wonder something, but for now she pushed it to the back of her mind.

Across from them, to the Iron Will's left side was a person that Elise would likely describe as stunning. A rather well-developed and tall woman with features that if she was in a more cheerful mood would had made Elise gulp for a moment and wonder if Tetsuko would ever get to that level of Pillow power, but she soon noticed that the woman was missing her right arm and had an eyepatch, if she didn't have the looks of a weathered swordsmaster, then she didn't knew who would. But now was not the time to enjoy deathly pillows.

Still, the two empty mats suggested something, one for Master Gai himself, the other? Seemed to be missing Tetsuko's father... Why did she get an ominous feeling?

Tetsu's grandfather began to speak as Elise had gently grasped a mat as instructed, placing it a small distance behind Gai at his side while the foreigner started to explain the reason behind his delays, and accompanied with an introduction. Uwabami spoke up, a casual and rougher tone than she had expected, and already Elise was reminded of how much of an outsider she was, how much, Ueno at the other hand answered that while she was not a student, her family were allies and while her attendance was questionable, it should be permitted. In the wake of their conversation it seemed Tetsuko's grandfather gave her permission to stay.

As she was seated the girl quickly noticed the glances of the twins, and the Eisenberg felt her mind in turmoil. How would she respond? One wrong move and she could be thrown out of this room, so she tried her utmost to follow the advice Gai gave her, making a light formal bow as she answered the two of them. "It is a honor to finally meet both of you, Masters Taniguchi." Hopefully that would be polite enough, she already felt tense just thinking about it.

Elise's attention was slowly snapping back to the matter at hand, Tetsuko's voice calling her attention as she heard the girl inquire for her father's presence. So Tetsuko's mother was having one of her episodes? It was tragic that her mother didn't finish her rehabilitation yet, or she would have surely been more useful than Elise felt right now.

Silently the girl observed the proceedings as Tetsuko's grandfather accepted his granddaughter's request to proceed with this 'trial', the man explaining that they were there to measure Tetsuko's progress so far, her role as heiress to the school and that stagnation and weakness were not tolerated. What did he mean with that? Tetsuko was pretty strong! At least that was what Elise felt once upon a time.

Then came the first question, a question which surely was going to be hard. Even as a school for heroism, U.A. had done little on providing a proper combat training, as was evident when the events at the military demonstration camp happened. The stronger students of the school had their strength because they took initiative, not because they were taught. Elise remained silent, yet each word dug deeper into Elise as she learned more about how Tetsuko viewed her time at the school.

The burgundy-haired lass felt her body freeze when Tetsuko blamed herself for taking advantage of the environment, the guilt and shame the Shindou felt. Elise opened her mouth, as if ready to protest but it was then her entire body froze. Those frivolous school pursuits... When Tetsuko was busy tending to her wishes and requests like going on a date or hanging out together, the girl could have been training by herself.

No, it was not that Tetsuko took advantage of the environment, it was Elise, Elise's selfish requests which led to Tetsuko to feel like she stagnated, that she didn't get stronger. A hand raised lightly to her chest, the faint stinging sensation in her chest being accompanied by a feeling of immense guilt and shame. Because of her Tetsuko was now in this situation.

There was no doubt about it now... Even if she had been Tetsuko's princess, to the Shindou she likely had been an outsider interfering with the duties and responsibilities of the heiress.

Elise von Eisenberg was the outsider who had forced the girl into this situation...

For someone who had valued the concept of being 'part of the group' Elise von Eisenberg knew that was far less easy to do than expected. Some groups were simply not meant for foreigners to be in. The way the masters glanced at her, distrust and questioning. Even as the master Taniguchi, who were greeted so cordially by the young Germanic lass, continued to look at her with that hint of curiosity that made it seem like they wondered her intentions for being her. What intentions did she even have? She didn't know, she didn't know what reason she had for being her, and that by itself felt quite damning.

Despite the mutual curiosity pervading the masters, they were trained enough to know their priority, to focus on the trial as Elise remained quiet enough not to disturb anyone. The fact Tetsuko wasn't even glancing into her direction only served to amplify Elise's doubts, her guilt and shame. All this time she had relied on Tetsuko, burdened her and at the same time the iron-blooded girl never relied on her, just trudging onwards into the snow by herself.

As the first testimony was given, Elise allowed her thoughts on how unfair it all was linger in her mind, a crushing silence that filled the room until Master Ueno finally broke it by speaking. His words were uttered in a grim tone, saying he had expected for this to happen. It was true, the public eye was on U.A, but at its core the school remained in its infancy, waiting to grow and develop, of course their methods were as hardly as developed as the Shindou their teachings, weathered by generations of exeperience, the bite of cynicism in his tone clearly there, and it sickened the girl to admit that he was right.

No Tetsuko, the blame was not with you, it was her fault, she was the one distracting her iron-blooded knight.

Elise felt her body growing colder by the second, a painful feeling for sure, could she have prevented this in any way? If she had asked Touma to start a special training program for them, if she had seen Tetsuko's struggles faster, could she had been of use? Useless, that was how she felt. She had been a burden to Tetsuko, someone the girl felt she couldn't rely on, a princess who didn't take the burdens of her knight into consideration. Still, to think that they were so oppossed to this all, but even more it felt like they considered the school more important than Tetsuko's feelings, as if she was a vessel for the school's honor first, and only after that a human being...

Yet when Master Gai spoke Elise raised her gaze slightly toward him, her expression one of disbelief as the man spoke up. There were merrits to such an experience, and Elise couldn't help but think just how right he was. Even if she was useless, perhaps she might had still been able to lessen Tetsuko's burden.

The twins spoke up, sharing their mixed opinions on the matter and while everyone spoke up Elise whispered, loud enough for Gai and anyone with sharp enough hearing to hear her. "That's right... In her time there Tetsu made connections which would be impossible for anyone to make in those halls here." She had to... had to... do what? "She gained the trust of a former Japanese Self-Defence Forces member, a high-ranked official with a fair amount of sway in the government, and although some of the teachers might be inexperienced, others possess a wealth of knowledge and information, masters in their own right." Indeed, she was thinking about Sophie and Hachi as she spoke up, yet Elise lowered her head in shame as she whispered the final words. "If anyone is to blame, it is I... Because I didn't take into consideration the burdens Tetsuko carries. I should have asked the Principal to provide her the proper education a warrior needed, but instead..."

What was she even trying to do? Shift the blame of everything onto herself? What use would it have? Would it banish the guilt and blame that Tetsuko was shouldering currently. To the masters the feeling of the girl was likely quite familiar, especially in her current choice of attire. With a bit of imagination one could clearly see the imaginary sheathed katana on her waist, the way her hand shakingly rested on the hilt of the blade.

Master Uwabami added in her own accented Japanese, commenting how Tetsuko losing her strength cause she was trying to make friends was a damd conversation of its own, Gai's slight smile, the nod, it alll didn't make sense to her.

Elise felt colder, and yet in her mind it felt like she was trudging into the cold snowstorm again, chasing after Tetsuko, but this time her purpose for chasing was different, as soon would became evident as the masters turned their gaze to the judge who spoke. Tetsuko's training schedule would be evaluated, as her willingness to follow it, and yet she got warned simply because she was trying to live like the other students did?

Master Ueno's words made her tremble for a moment, Tetsuko's enrollment being reevaulated, it was becoming too much for her. Tetsuko was already walking away from her, and now they were considering just pulling her straight out of her life? It was too much for her to no longer speak up.

The masters conversed, Master Gai's remark being quite on point as the others commented that there would be so much use to Tetsuko finishing her education.

Tetsuko commented that she thought that at the very least her Quirk had developed in her time there, and it was at that time, after Master Ueno spoke that Elise's voice resounded across the hall. "Her Quirk developed, she was able to stand up against a villain that even the number one pro-hero had troubles with, she was able to force a man wearing a highly advanced exoskeleton into retreating with her quirk! I'm sure if she is given a bit more time to train she could become even stronger. I... I..."

The blade was drawn, and yet it was not flung at any of the masters, instead the words that followed made it clear what the girl's intentions were. "I'll ask the Principal to start the special training program he was preparing! I'll even ask for him to change our accomodation so she can focus entirely on her training. But please do not... do not disregard the progress she made at Yuuei! Her blade is still sharp, she even rallied other blades to her cause, some which are strong in their own right. She... just has to be given the chance to swing them unrestrained."

It was at that moment the burgundy-haired lass thrust the imaginary blade into her own body, trying to take the blame onto herself, if she... if she could at least once be of use to her beloved knight by taking on this burden, to be cast out so the snowstorm could clear and Tetsuko was given the chance she deserved. Self-sacrifice was something often said to be dramatic, in stories it was enough to bring people to tears, but here it was the one who was sacrificing herself who was in tears.

Tetsuko's weakness was because of her princess…

There was no way for her to know how this trial would unfold. In the end she was but a mere girl in the presence of masters.

As the proceedings continued onward, Elise's whispers would be heard by the ashen-haired man, who tilted his head and showed that he was listening. It was sad that she was not aware enough of the proceedings to be observant enough to notice the perked ears of a curious Master Uwabami. His expression was unreadable, making it hard for the Germanic lass to really know what to expect, what to imagine Yet his whisper did wonders to surprise her. He told her to hold onto that feeling, to wield it carefully, the lass was still quite unaware just what her role in this trial would become soon afterwards.


A few moments later, Elise's voice resounded through the hall, and even with all eyes drawn toward her, the snowstorm raging into her direction was intense, but she trudged onwards, her goal made clear to her heart. The Tanguchi's curious gaze, Ueno's spiteful glare and Uwabami's raised brow of intrigue, every bit was enough to make most shrink back in fear, and even if Master Gai did not look back at her, Elise felt it was her task, her final duty toward the knight who had protected her up to this point. She didn't knew if it would work, if it had any purpose or use, but she sure as hell wasn't going to just give up on this!

She tried to do her best to avoid Tetsuko's gaze, the shock and horror of the iron-blooded knight only resolving Elise to push onwards. This was for her sake, for the girl she loved her sake, let it at least be enough. She had thrown herself straight into the fire, prepared for what was to come, and yet as Tetsuko's face contorted with agony and distress at her sacrifice, Elise was prepared to do what must be done. If Tetsuko was to be blamed for this, then let it be her princess who would shoulder the punishment. A reckless effort, but a heartfelt attempt. A bittersweet gift for what the burgundy-haired lass feared might had been an end of the most beautiful bond she had ever possessed, and ever would have.

When Tetsuko uttered that it was her responsibility, that it was her burden to bear Elise continued to speak. If Tetsuko collapsed in this snowstorm, she would help her upright, even if it was that gentle push, that last bit of strength the burgundy-haired lass had left to give. If they couldn't leave this snowstorm together, then at least she wanted to push Tetsuko out of it, to make her return to the warmth she had once enjoyed so much. Ueno's glare was akin to daggers, the venom in his gaze, and his words made her shiver, but the resolution in her eyes was evident.

Even in the face of a master Elise would support her knight. Master Gai interjected, the man's quiet and sly grin on his expression being one that was confusing to say the least, Even if she had been oblivious to her role, one thing had been made clear, Master Gai was the defense attorney, and he has a secret weapon, a second blade on his belt: the decisive witness which was Elise!


The foreign master spoke, asking if it had been made clear to them all. Master Gai's words earned curiosity from the other masters as the man spoke further, and in a way she started to understand it. They underestimated the strength of the bonds Tetsuko was forging, yet in this hall, across the likes of the great masters themselves a meek girl had been given the resolve to speak up, to raise a blade against that overwhelming presence, a meek girl who would make Tetsuko fight even harder for her sake. The man started to show his hand, playing the cards to turn the tables around!

The Taniguchis' eyes lit up, seemingly realizing something as they nodded in agreement. Master Gai's words resounded in them, explaining how they believed that it was their bond which helped strengthen their blades, it was because they had each other that they were able to fight at their strongest, that much was made clear.

Uwabami commented that it sounded like wishy-washy bullshit, making the burgundy-haired lass her gaze turn toward the woman, the line of reasoning seemingly displeasing her, yet seeing that expression change into a satisfied smirk toward her was unexpected. To be praised for having the balls to speak up to the masters, cause of the bond she treasured so much, the touching words seemingly having reached the heart of the pillow master, ahem Master Uwabami. Nodding her head lightly Elise raised a hand to her eyes, wiping her tears and after a little sniff nodded her head toward the woman, it was subtle, but the look in the girl's eyes had changed. Even if she was a princess, there were embers of something else, raw unrefined embers of a spirit that the warriors might recognize quite well.

The man's scolding words as he commented that her words were trivial matters, lunacy and that Tetsuko's responsibilities were her own, that the Germanic lass had spoken out of line the girl's resolute gaze stood in defiance of his words. Her bond with Tetsuko her shield, her love for the girl a untrained blade. She wouldn't back down!

Master Gai's retort was curious, as if it hinted at something more serious, more complex than anything involving this trial, but for the time being Elise tried to focus on what was most important, returning to the side of the one who had tried to push her aside.

Even as the venom in the other master's words was evident, the tension raising high Elise wouldn't back down, an unexpected fire lit within her heart.

Tetsuko's grandfather's word was enough to silence everyone, including Elise who gazed at him.

Ryouchi Shindou called out to her, his tone making it clear she had spoken out of place and was being merciful in his judgement, making Elise nod her head lightly, a small bow of her head making it clear she acknowledged her actions and was grateful for his mercy, even if she did not regret standing up for Tetsuko.

Elise had gone quiet as Tetsuko's grandfather commented on their personal training, considering that Yuuei and those bonds might had merit, but soon revealing that her personal training was only one matter to be discussed. Elise did not know just what was to follow, the comment about Semper Fi making her entire body tremble lightly, and like a warrior feeling a phantom pain from a past battle a hand reached for her chest, for the area that still bore the scar the monster known as Thunder Shock inflicted upon her...

What was her role in all of this? A mere outsider, a decisive witness? As the proceedings developed the burgundy-haired lass started to slowly notice that a path was unfolding before her. The embers of a kindling fire were lit within her, a fire that did not go unnoticed by the keen Masters nor by Tetsuko herself. Some might had seen it as a simple and foolish defiance, the acts of an arrogant child who did not know her place in those sacred halls. Others might had found it simply curious, that such a spirit was adapting so quickly to the situation. Uwabami at the other hand found it entertaining and seemed to approve of her in a way the other masters who didn't. She was a young warrior who didn't care about what stood in her way, if it kept her from reaching Tetsuko she would force her way through.

It was tragic that this change had been caused by those events, events which left Tetsuko confused and conflicted at the fact the once passive and meek child had started to show a more rebellious side to her. She had gone quiet, but she knew all too well that she wouldn't be able to remain silent in the face of this subject. The burgundy-haired lass trudged in the snow, trying her best to chase after the distant outline of the knight she had lost. Forcing her way onwards, enduring a burden she had never expected to find here. However, it was a burden she was willing to carry, for Tetsuko's sake.

The subject about Semper Fi made Elise visibly distressed, and yet her reaction showed something else, a glimpse amidst that fire which was just waiting to show itself, but for now it remained sheathed, until the right time to speak had arrived. Tetsuko's grandfather commented that they had received reports, reports which Master Ueno would affirm with Tetsuko and until they were finished no interjections would be considered permitted. It had been made clear that she would have only one chance, one she would have to time carefully.

As Master Ueno went to the entrance of the hall Master Gai turned toward her, Elise's gaze softening for a moment as she nodded her head firmly, the next part would be much harder to clear, but Elise hoped her plan would work. Master Ueno returned to his place, showing the prosecution's evidence, evidence which would no doubt be damning and decisive, but a critical piece was missing, a piece which Master Gai had in his possession.

Master Ueno's voice was cold and harsh as usual, the conversation on how they had effectively dispatched the aggressors making Tetsuko object, revealing she considered it her failure to ensure he was incapacitated, and that she ended up getting hurt as a result. Why was Tetsuko blaming herself for something she had not been responsible for? The burgundy-haired lass couldn't imagine it why. Gai's gesture to tell her not to interject made it clear she had to wait, wait a little longer.

However, when Thunder Shock's name was mentioned Elise's body tensed. Even now that fiend continued to haunt her. When the man's words lingered in the air, asking about whether they had chosen to cooperate with him or not Elise could see it, the moment approaching where a single opening would show itself. The foreigner spoke politely, asking for permission to corroborate whatever they learned, and the bespectacled master seemingly permitted it after shooting a glare at Gai's direction, repeating the same question.

It was at that time, when Tetsuko revealed that she had tried to survive and cooperate with the monster that Elise acted. A hand was slowly reaching into the air, the one that had remained at her side till now as she tried to gain the attention of Tetsuko's grandfather, permission to speak. If they had denied it, she would remain quiet, but else... If Tetsuko has imagined herself as standing bladeless in front of Master Ueno, defeated and ready to surrender a flash of metal would swoop from her waist, and perhaps for a moment it might had felt like a dagger flashed past her as the witness of all people joined in on the defense.

"Master Ueno, I'm afraid there are some... facts that Tetsu-" She paused for a moment, inhaling deeply as she steeled herself. "Tetsuko-sama is unaware of." This was it, her one chance to try to clear things up, and this time she was much more careful, in the end this time she didn't flail with emotional swings, a single and precise calculated move to crush the prosecutor's evidence. "While it is true that we cooperated with Thunder Shock, it was under my insistence. When we first stumbled onto him, it was she who tried to attack him, to bring justice onto that foul demon."

She still felt the memories lingering in both her mind and heart. "Thunder Shock is a dangerous individual, cruel and detestable, but also powerful and was aided by a powerful foe. Considering her Quirk a head-on attack could have been dangerous. You don't swing a katana at a cannon, right?" She tried her best but the next part was the hardest, a truth that Tetsuko had been oblivious to till now. "When I insisted we work with him, it was not with survival in mind, it was to make that man lower his guard. If he thought we submitted to him, he would be less likely to be aware of my true intentions." She closed her eyes, taking a deep breath as she continued. "I intended to exhaust Thunder Shock by having him involve himself in conflicts, and then planned to strike when the opportunity arose."

She turned toward Tetsuko and resumed her explanation. "As your evidence likely shows, we came in conflict with special forces within the armory, soldiers wearing special armor which enhances them, granting them power far greater than normal. It was there that I planned to spin my trap. During the battle it was Tetsuko-sama's strength which allowed us to disable one of the soldiers, a feat which no doubt surpassed the teacher who was with us." She paused for a moment, recalling what followed, and it was here a hidden truth was revealed. "When Tetsuko lost consciousness after the enemy escaped, an exhausted Thunder Shock attempted to leave, and it was here that I tried to act."

The sting in her chest grew worse as she continued. "I... failed... Because I lacked proper training I was incapable of stopping Thunder Shock. I injured him, but it was not enough to prevent him from leaving. That day we cooperated with Thunder Shock not in order to survive, but in order to end that menace. It was my error in judgement, if I had been able to tell Tetsuko-sama, if I had conveyed my intentions we might had been able to stop him, it was my inexperience which led to his escape and the unjust blame to be cast upon Tetsuko-sama."

She bowed, bowed deep enough that her head touched the mat as she continued. "I was taught by my parents to hold up for my mistakes, so I plead that if you are to judge this matter, then judge the one who brought this shame upon her. If... I had the proper training I could have stopped him, so instead please judge me for my shortcomings instead of Tetsuko-sama." She really disliked sounding so formal, but if it had to be done.

Because she had been weak she had been unable to protect Tetsuko, unable to stop Thunder Shock.

Tetsuko's words clearly had earned a mixture of reactions from the trial attendees. Curiosity, disappointment, contempt were some of the emotions shown in their gazes, all of who did not find much good in what Tetsuko had just revealed. Cooperation with a villain like Thunder Shock, one linked to organized crime no less, it was obviously a matter of great concern to the family who fought against a crime clan themselves.

As the young swordswoman hung her head in crushing shame at this confession, the despair in Tetsuko's face as the burgundy-haired lass spoke up felt like a dagger being plunged in her heart, but she still continued onward. She had to do this, for Tetsuko's sake, it was something she had convinced herself of. When the iron-blooded lass spoke quietly to herself, asking why she just wouldn't be quiet, Elise spoke up. She tried her best to find a proper angle, a proper method of turning this conversation into her favor, to try to alleviate the Shindou lass her burden. It was an attempt, as she first spoke about how Tetsuko had been the first to try to attack that villain, but her decision to cooperate, surely Elise knew the true meaning of it: It was not out of weakness, fear or the desire to survive, it was out of concern for Elise's safety.

As Tetsuko bit her tongue, holding her interjection for the time being as she continued, Elise's words about the threat that Thunder Shock posed rang true, earning nods of agreement from the Taniguchis in her comparison to striking a cannon with a katana, indeed even if their wording felt a bit curious, she thought they at least understood her message.

Still, seeing that pained expression upon Tetsuko's face only intensified her suffering, the feelings of guilt and regret at having once been so absorbed by her desire for vengeance. The burgundy-haired lass pushed onwards, she could plea for forgiveness or carry the burden of her sins after she was done saving Tetsuko.

The Taniguchi's looked as curious as ever, their thoughts a mystery while Ueno simply continued to glare at her. Still the Pillow Master Uwabami grinned once more, her respect for the burgundy-haired lass her apparant ruthlessness making Elise unsure whether to take this comment as a compliment or to hang her head in shame.

The next thing she described was a memory which still haunted the two of them, while Tetsuko saw weakness, Elise saw a victory, a knight who gave it her all to best a soldier nobody else could in their group. It was obviously something the two of them were divided on, as was the matter of who was to be blamed for Thunder Shock's escape. It was a desperate effort, and yet Master Gai's unsteady smile was evidently a sign of the horrible outcome of what was to happen. The brief silence was cut through with a precise blade wielded by Master Ueno himself.

Elise paused as Master Ueno spoke, his words accusatory in nature as he commented that they were there to assess the progress of Tetsuko, the future head of their school. Yet was that truly the case? The man's cold words and his demeanor seemed to suggest to her they were there to blame Tetsuko and punish her rather than set things right!

Of course, her claims were without evidence, and watching her blade being dismantled right before her eyes was enough to make Elise feel powerless once more as the Master rightfully told how Tetsuko chose to cooperate with Thunder Shock of her own will.

When Master Gai tried to reason, hoping to salvage the situation the swordswoman's words were another decisive blade thrust into the defendant's body, one which visibly upset Elise as she trembled lightly, lowering her head as her expression became more difficult to read. "Why... why are you always like this..."

She whispered feebly, just loud enough for Master Gai to hear her. "It wasn't because of weakness, but out of concern for me that you cooperated with him". Anger rose within her heart. "Never did you rely on me, always carrying the burdens by yourself. Am I that unreliable to you? Or is it because I'm weak that you refuse to share this burden.

A chilling silence filled the air as Elise leaned a little closer and whispered to Master Gai. "This would have never happened if we were prepared for this Master Gai. It is unfortunate, but currently, the school lacks the proper means to prepare us for situations like those at the camp. We're taught through exercises, even I who received a special training course only learned to fight against dummies. No amount of such training can replace the experience of fighting against a real person. What we needed wasn't such lectures, what we needed was experience, an instructor who could help us understand the experience of a true battle. What we needed was a master to teach us..."

A momentary pause lingered in the air, the silence crushing as Elise understood now why Tetsuko didn't rely on her... It was because Elise von Eisenberg was weak... She didn't want to crush the girl under a burden she couldn't carry, which meant. "I want to help carry her burden... I want her to finally rely on me, I... want to become stronger like she is."

Truthful words from the depths of her heart, yet she could only wait to see the end result of this trial, a trial which might truly end up being decisive for both Tetsuko Shindou and Elise von Eisenberg in so many ways. Why were both girls doing what they were doing? Many would have asked that question, and perhaps none would possess the full answer to it. But for now all she could do was wait and pray that Master Gai had a plan, a plan to help her rescue Tetsuko from this cold snowstorm they were currently trapped within, hoping to drag both of them back to the warmth she adored so much.

In the end, even if they had done all they could do in this dire situation, Elise couldn't help but wonder if it was good enough. Even if her help had been invaluable for the first charge, destroying Master Ueno's assertions with her own testimony and that fire that allowed the burgundy-haired lass to rage through that which stood in front of her path. Yet, if there was one thing she learned today, then it was that not every fight, no matter how well fought, could end in a victory. Master Ueno was clearly not going to allow her words to go unchallenged, it seemed, as he struck at her statement with a near surgical prcession, but it was futile when her dagger faced the trained sword of a master. If she had tried to be a princess' dagger coming to the aid of an unarmed knight against this swordsman, well the situation now seemed to show the girls just exactly why those masters were to be feared, for Elise's retaliation had been brutally dismantled, and her weapon sliced in twain...

The iron-blooded girl remaiend silent, as if she was in a grim manner content with the situation's outcome. It was clear that Tetsuko considered it her burden to bear, a burden that was so painful and yet seemed to be a decision she had no choice in, but to carry what was her duty. The enteriety of the hall had gone silent, awaiting the decision of Tetsuko's grandfather, the verdict which would pass judgement upon Tetsuko. This paused had given Elise the chance to speak, her whispers of concern reaching Master Gain, and yet his expression did not show a single opening for the other masters to read or exploit.

Heartfelt words were spoken, the knowledge that there was not much that they could say or do in their current state, yet perhaps more to discuss later, and yet the Germanic lass her remaining words seemed to stir a subtle reaction from the foreigner. A slight smile, in response to her resolve. When he hummed those words just loud enough for her to hear Elise nodded her head firmly. Of course, when he said that she had only needed to ask the girl blinked in confusion, unsure of what to expect or imagine, but it was clear he had no time to elaborate as the Grandmaster finally addressed the court.

He commented on how those were troubling developments to say the least, the harsh tone and the weight they carried being like a executioner's ax. When he commented how Tetsuko had brought disgrace upon her family, upon their blood and the school Elise knew she couldn't speak, not now after all she had tried. But was it enough? Were her efforts to reach Tetsuko and save her enough? He explained how punishing her was not their intention, but that reassessments would be made, evaulations which would be undertaken and measures performed to hone Tetsuko's dulled blade. And then came the moment he inquired about the opinion of his council.

Master Ueno spoke first, and by now Elise could already feel a displeasure just hearing the man's words. The harsh tone, his earlier actions had clearly not earned him any favors from Elise who just stared quietly at him, her expression calm yet

The twins their comments of course were as confusing as they were curious, not sure what to make of their testimony, and when Uwabami spoke it became clear that at least she might had earned a positive opinion from one of the masters, the scarred master's words making her unsure of what to think, although it continued to lit something within her heart, something which was waiting to burst. Master Gai spoke up, saying he felt no need to repeat what the other masters had said so far, that the matter needed to be addressed, but to everyone's surprise he had one small request. He explained his desire to have another chance to show she strength of the bonds Tetsuko had been forging, and requested the presence of a training partner while under his supervision. A simple gesture was made toward her, a gesture which made Elise finally realize Gai's masterplan, the master's grin only growing wider as both Ueno and Tetsuko glared at him, but it was there that Elise stared back straight into Tetsuko's own expression.

A resolute look, one of determination, she was weak, it was true, she wasn't a warrior like Tetsuko but if she couldn't save the iron-blooded girl, then at the very least she would help carry her burden! Gai explained further that Tetsuko's actions that they were made to ensure Elsie's survival, a attempt which worked in that regard, and so the foreigner wanted a chance to show why it was the right choice. They could possibly benefit from what happened, turn Tetsuko's weakness in that decision into the birth of a new warrior, one whose loyalty was with the knight she had adored all those days. A new hope shined through as Elise's gaze settled onto the Grandmaster, awaiting his verdict.

One last turnabout, one which might jsut pull out some form of victory. Silence lingered in the air, Ryouchi Shindou's expression unreadable as the hall grew tense once more when the man spoke, commenting how the Foreigner's methods had always been quite experimental in nature.

Elise listened carefully to every word, Master Ryouichi's words resounding through the hall as he voiced the decision that the man would train with both of them tomorrow, the results would be assessed and if she proved to be a mere distraction... no, she was not going to be a distraction, she had vowed that before, and would vow for it again as often as needed. They were dismissed, and turning to look toward Gai for council she waited for the man to show her what had to be done next. If they had left the hall and were on their own again, it would be made clear just how intense the pressure on the poor Germanic lass had been, for her legs trembled lightly and if nobody was swift enough to keep her upright, she would no doubt be landing flat on her butt as the moistness in her eyes returned.

"I... I..." There was so much she wanted to say, so much to apologize for but it seemed right now she had been a little overwhelmed by the events.