Lucas's days had become increasingly unique. He was used to living a life focused on training and preparation, but now he had to balance that with his relationships with Takagi and Saeko.
Every morning before class started, he, Takagi, and Saeko often chatted together in the school courtyard. Although it was awkward at first, they eventually got used to it.
"So, when are you taking me on another date?" Takagi asked, crossing her arms in front of her chest.
Lucas chuckled. "Why are you asking as if you're my only girlfriend?"
Takagi scoffed. "Of course, I have to make sure I get my fair share. You're a busy man."
Saeko gave a small smile beside them. "Indeed, Lucas is always busy. But I think that's one of the things that makes him interesting."
Lucas scratched his head. "Geez, you two really know how to pressure a guy."
Saeko chuckled softly, while Takagi just huffed. But despite everything, the atmosphere remained comfortable.
After the argument with Rei, Takagi finally decided to talk to her. Lucas didn't want to interfere, but he still kept watch from a distance.
On the school rooftop, Takagi stood in front of Rei with a serious expression.
"Rei, I want to apologize for what I said back then," Takagi said sincerely.
Rei, who initially looked a bit stiff, gradually softened. "I was wrong too. I shouldn't have gotten close to Lucas without considering other people's feelings."
Takagi sighed and looked at Rei more calmly. "Listen, I don't hate you. I just… tend to be too blunt about my feelings. I can be harsh, I know that. But what's important is that I don't want there to be any hatred between us."
Rei gave a small smile. "I think so too. So… are we good?"
Takagi nodded. "Yeah. We're good."
Hearing that from afar, Lucas smiled in relief.
After that, Lucas refocused on his training. He realized that even though he was quite skilled in close combat, he still lacked proper shooting skills. If this world was truly about to be overrun by the living dead, as he knew, then firearm proficiency would be a highly valuable asset.
One afternoon, after school, Lucas wandered aimlessly around the city to get some fresh air. He passed by several shops and cafes before his eyes caught a familiar figure.
"Shizuka?" Lucas squinted, making sure of what he saw.
Sure enough, it was Shizuka Marikawa, the always cheerful school nurse. However, this time she wasn't alone. Beside her stood another woman wearing a military jacket with a strong, confident posture.
Lucas recognized her. Rika Minami.
"Damn, I didn't expect to run into them here," Lucas thought.
Shizuka looked delighted to see Lucas. "Oh, Lucas-kun! What are you doing here?"
Lucas smiled and shrugged. "Just walking around. What about you?"
Shizuka giggled. "I'm meeting my friend, Rika. Ah, let me introduce you!"
Rika eyed Lucas sharply before extending her hand. "Rika Minami. Shizuka's good friend."
Lucas shook her hand confidently. "Lucas. Nice to meet you."
Rika narrowed her eyes. "Hmm… your hands are pretty rough. Are you a fighter?"
Lucas smirked slightly. "I train in kendo and a few other things. But I still need to improve my combat skills."
Rika crossed her arms, observing him for a moment. "Interesting. What about shooting? Ever tried it?"
Lucas shook his head. "Not yet. I want to learn, but I haven't had the chance."
Rika suddenly smirked. "Well then, you're in luck. I'm heading to the shooting range today. Want to join?"
Lucas was surprised by the offer, but he didn't want to miss this rare opportunity. "Seriously?"
"Of course. I can tell you have potential. It would be a waste if you only relied on close combat."
Lucas glanced at Shizuka, who simply smiled and nodded. "Rika-chan loves training talented people!"
Lucas finally nodded. "Alright, I'm in."
They arrived at a military training facility, accessible only to certain individuals. Since Rika was a sniper serving in special forces, she had access to the place.
Lucas stood in front of the shooting table while Rika prepared a pistol in her hands.
"The first weapon you'll try is the Glock 17. It's a semi-automatic pistol, fairly stable, and suitable for beginners," Rika explained while handing the gun to Lucas.
Lucas received the firearm carefully, feeling its weight in his hands.
"First step, pay attention to your grip," Rika said, then stood behind him to help adjust his stance. "Use both hands, and don't be too tense."
Lucas followed her instructions, then aimed the pistol at the target.
"Take a deep breath… hold it for a moment… then shoot."
Lucas pulled the trigger.
BANG!
The first shot missed the target.
Rika smirked. "Don't rush. Focus. Feel the rhythm."
Lucas nodded and tried again. This time, his bullet hit the edge of the target.
After several more attempts, his shots became more accurate.
"Good. You have talent," Rika commented, folding her arms. "With enough training, you could become an excellent shooter."
Lucas grinned. "I won't stop until I master it."
Rika patted his shoulder. "Good. That's what I like to hear."
Shizuka, who had been watching the whole time, finally cheered, "Lucas-kun looks so cool!"
Lucas chuckled. "Thanks, Shizuka-san."