Chereads / BERSERK PHANTASMS / Chapter 7 - vi. Rigolos, your efforts appear vain now

Chapter 7 - vi. Rigolos, your efforts appear vain now

RIGOLOS

Before dawn breaks, Ruel-Blue and I jog in the park, sovereigns of this moment and realm. To care for you and Burgundy, I must fortify my immune system. A responsibility I solemnly accept.

I regularly visit the gym weekly, where the equipment has become familiar companions. I also schedule weekly appointments with my barber, dentist, doctor, and masseuse to preserve my well-being. However, when my schedule is hectic, I sometimes miss a visit, but why is that? I'm still consumed by sadness.

As I ran, gasping and perspiring, I couldn't suppress a quiet chuckle. What triggered the thought that my life was miserable? I'm neither sad nor miserable. Why would I feel sorrowful when I'm amused by you and Burgundy? I'm not typically drawn to television soap operas, yet your lives are captivating to observe.

As I ran,  I spotted a massive billboard featuring me in motocross attire, holding a protective gear. It turns out I'm a brand ambassador for the helmet. On the adjacent billboard, Mommy's face promotes a collagen product. I'm curious about Mommy's well-being in France.

As I ran, upon seeing my mom's face, I instinctively compared her beauty to your mom's, BoRat. While many men have been enamored with my mom, even younger ones are drawn to her charm, your mom's presence is immaculate. She's exceptionally kind, caring, and empathetic - I guess. But why am I sharing these details with you, anyway?

And here you are, outside Rosie's house, lounging in the hut, wearing a hat but no upper garment, recovering from wounds and bruises from beatings, yet instead of healing, you're thinking of hammering.

Rosie emerged with your snack, her gait causing quite a stir - almost seismic! Assuming you were resting, she found you repairing a rattan chair instead. She halted you, you turned to face her, and your sun-kissed skin appeared chocolate-brown to her gaze.

"Rigolos, there's no need to trouble yourself with repairs. Your stay here is my way of thanking you for rescuing me. In fact, Jane reminded me to ensure your full recovery."

"That's fine, I'm getting bored as well. I believe I need to stay active to recover. Please don't tell Jane if I become too stubborn."

"Don't rush yourself. It takes time for your wounds to heal. Don't be shy, you're always welcome in our home. By the way, I brought you a snack. I prepared it myself."

"Really? You cooked this? The aroma is amazing, and it looks mouthwatering. Empanada is my absolute favorite! You're not only brilliant, Rosie, but also a lovely chef."

Your words are tickling Fluffy's heart, like a feather duster. While you dine before her, she gazes at you, mesmerized, and your physique - your chest, nipples, and abdomen - your rocky road body - are a visual feast for her eyes.

Fluffy's daydreaming about you was disrupted by Slutty and Grungy's laughter and boisterous chatter. The pair arrived with gifts - Grungy brought a fruit basket, and Slutty had pastries wrapped in plastic - plastic just like her - which I assume are for you. As Slutty touches your body, she's inspecting the bruises you've sustained.

"So, you really rescued her, Rigolos? You confronted the notorious Figaro? What motivated you? Why did you go out of your way to save Rosie? Considering her frailty, doesn't it seem like she's unable to defend herself?" As Slutty spoke, Fluffy glanced downward, appearing embarrassed. Hopefully, she'll recognize that the woman, overdone in makeup, is undermining her.

"I rescued her because I couldn't bear the thought of her being humiliated, and Figaro was on the verge of harming her. A true gentleman never inflicts pain on others, particularly a woman. The prospect of witnessing that was unbearable for me."

"I wish more men were like you - mellow and courteous towards women, and certainly not cowards. Some men talk a good game, but fall short on deeds. May they follow your example." You initially smiled at Grungy's comment, instinctively touching the back of your neck.

However, your expression soon turned uncomfortable as stomach discomfort set in, likely from the empanada. You excused yourself to use the restroom, leaving the three girls in the hut.

Slutty playfully slapped Fluffy's shoulder, causing her to tremble in her position.

"What was going through your mind when Rigolos stood up for you? Your heart must have been racing, making it hard to breathe. I thought you were prioritizing your studies, so why are you flirting?"

"I'm not buttering up with Rigolos; I'm simply grateful for his support. It's reassuring to know he's there for us in case of any trouble."

"Stop pretending. And you owe Jane appreciation too, since she's the reason Rigolos acknowledged you as a friend. I shudder to think what might have happened if Rigolos hadn't intervened."

"If he hadn't arrived, you would probably be mourning my loss by now. As a ghost, it would pain me even more to see you shedding tears for my sake."

"Girl, no need to assume the worst! Can't you just be in a coma with a chance of recovery? However, I need to refresh my makeup, and your room has the best mirror. I'll excuse myself for a moment and leave you two to chat."

Slutty left carrying a handbag big enough to knock out a Chihuahua, sashaying like a runway model, convinced of her stunning beauty. But the sight of her slipping and landing face-first in the mud would be hilarious, especially after your prolonged bathroom break. The household staff rushed to assist Slutty after her fall, and helped her get back on her feet. Fluffy and Grungy, however, stayed put.

"I'm aware of your hidden crush on Rigolos, no need to pretend otherwise. Apologies for inadvertently reading your diary."

"Why did you invade my privacy by reading my diary? It's highly personal and confidential."

"Your recklessness is to blame. Scattered belongings led me to discover your secret crush. And I stumbled upon this poignant entry: 'Rigolos is a refuge in a barren desert, and I'm a parched camel yearning for love and connection.'"

"Feeling overwhelmed, I'm tempted to hide in a trunk and escape into the depths of the Mariana Trench. I worry about what might happen if Jane discovers this."

"We don't need to worry about Jane. She's already clarified that she doesn't have romantic feelings for Rigolos, and any affection is purely platonic. Their sweetness is just a reflection of their friendly dynamic."

"She may assume I'm attempting to steal her best friend. She could become hostile, scrutinize me intensely, and even get physical.

"Jane is lovely and radiant, particularly in blue attire and Levi's jeans. Yet, your beauty outshines hers, making you trophy-worthy. Despite potentially winning a beauty contest against her, she remains grounded and thoughtful."

"Do I really surpass Jane in beauty?"

"As your friend, alongside Jane, I'm sharing my honest opinion. Jane's body type suits you well, and if you exchanged physical appearances, Rigolos might immediately develop feelings for you."

"Hold on, I recognize that tone. You're about to ask for something, aren't you? Are you seeking financial help again? I recall giving you extra allowance just yesterday."

"I'm expecting a parcel, and I'm excited about this item. However, it comes with a hefty price tag."

"Carlyle, I'll respect your choices, but exercise restraint with illicit substances. You may not see the consequences now, but in time, you'll understand how they're harming your life."

"Why the hesitation? If you're willing to give, do so without lecturing me. Your intelligence is admirable, but occasionally, you cross the line."

That's why Grungy showcases your loveteam banner with Fluffy, because she asks Fluffy for drug money. But I have class, and my studies remain a priority. Meet you at LeCentral BoRat, but you'll likely arrive late, perhaps due to empanada-induced discomfort. And I'm fascinated by Fluffy's diary, which seems to hold secrets about all of your personalities.

Currently, I'm engaged in our professor's lecture, inquiring when needed, and contributing insightful ideas. I'm also socializing with peers, grabbing meals together at the cafeteria, and enjoying conversations and laughter – embracing the usual student experience. Lately, my life has been consumed by your world with Burgundy, but even amidst the chaos, I'm finding normalcy in everyday tasks.

Ruel-Blue and I were socializing by the school fountain with some motocross friends when we noticed your arrival. Incidentally, Burgundy is sitting next to me with a picnic basket, seemingly pretending we're not acquaintances. She was already here, I simply joined her, and she didn't object. After all, the school fountain isn't her property.

I long to indulge in her fragrance, breathing in its sweetness. It's as enchanting as a butterfly dancing among blooms in a vibrant meadow, where I lie on the grass, lost in cloud-gazing, until she alights on my nose, and I yearn to hold her close.

You sat beside Burgundy, so she's now between us. I'm pretending to chat with friends, but my ears are tuned in to your upcoming conversation. And I noticed Burgundy opened the basket, which is full of sandwiches.

I'm discerning when it comes to food. This morning, I opted for just coffee, but Burgundy surprised me with a ham sandwich, which she also shared with Ruel-Blue and our four other friends. Initially, I was startled by her kindness, having assumed she'd only brought enough for the two of you. Though reserved, she's generous.

Your discussion began as you were having your meal, and it appears Grewean prepared these sandwiches.

"This morning, I visited your mother and lent a hand. Grewean also offered his assistance. I helped with meal prep at the carinderia, including chopping ingredients and learning cooking techniques from your mom."

"And how did your dish turn out?"

"I was mortified when Tita tasted it - I'd accidentally added excessive salt to the ginataang munggo. Fortunately, Tita's expertise saved the dish, and it remained delectable. We can still offer it for sale."

"Did you find it challenging to assist mom?"

"Although I'm inexperienced in cooking, I'm eager to learn from her. It's essential for me to acquire kitchen skills, especially since I plan to get married and want to cook for my future husband."

"So sweet! I'll just drop by and knock on your door. Your husband will be surprised to see me, only to find out I'm there for free food."

"But seriously, despite Tita's brave smile amidst my blunders, her fatigue is still unmistakable. Beneath her tough exterior, she's clearly battling inner turmoil."

"I'm heading home later because I can't stand the thought of her going through tough times without me. I know she'll be upset and scold me for my dishonesty, but being there for her matters more."

"Alright, I've got your back! We'll face your mom's wrath together. If you get in trouble, I'll take the fall with you. And if the broom comes out, we'll share the 'fun'!"

While my friends and I were having a delightful conversation, and I still haven't finished this sandwich because I want to keep it as a souvenir, and Rigolos seems to have forgotten his upcoming motocross event, and Sadboy is busy with his company duties while thinking of Burgundy - you two are in your own little world.

A disturbance is unfolding nearby, close to our seating area. You and Burgundy rose to your feet as we realized Fluffy was surrounded by our schoolmates. Your jaws dropped when you saw her companion - Figaro. Ironically, your supposedly trouble-averse friend is now at the center of the scandal. Fluffy was seething with rage towards Figaro, who stood his ground, his face scarlet with anger and annoyance, having been pelted with Fluffy's frosty chocolatey cupcakes.

"Oh great, here we go again. I don't find you attractive and I'm sure many others will agree, and now you're tarnishing the only redeeming quality you had - your innocent image. Did you eat something magical that made you bold enough to challenge me?"

"You got what was coming to you for harming my friend! Your actions are unforgivable! I know you intimidate many, but I'm here to show that some of us refuse to back down!"

"Am I supposed to be afraid of you? Run to mommy? Call my friends for backup? You're a joke. I pity you, that's how pathetic you are."

Fluffy remained resolute in the face of Figaro, but then Jane stepped in, and it seemed like she and Fluffy were on the verge of a heated argument.

"Jane, don't get involved in my fight with Figaro. This is my battle."

"No, you're clueless about your actions."

"You're saying I'm clueless? I'm the one who did the work on our research paper, and we got excellent grades! Now you're questioning my awareness of my own actions?"

"Rosie, everything was fine, but you're only making things worse! You know you can't take on Figaro, so why are you insisting on being dauntless? Just because you think you're brave doesn't mean you can challenge anyone!"

"But Jane, will you just let Figaro get away with what he did? Won't you show courage to stand up for your friend? I've become intrepid because I'm tired of being a coward!"

"You're not grasping the situation! Consider Rigolos' sacrifices for your sake! If you have any regards for Rigolos, you should respect his decision to defend you back then!"

Fluffy fell silent and looked down. Her bravery gradually faded, until tears began to fall. Slutty and Grungy arrived, oblivious to what's happening. They tried to interview Fluffy, but she only responded with sobs. Meanwhile, you, BoRat, stood beside Burgundy, impressing me with how you handled the situation. You didn't interfere with the friends' argument. You didn't stop Burgundy or Rosie from expressing their feelings.

Burgundy bravely faced the formidable Figaro.

"You're a nuisance to me! You have no empathy! Harm Rosie, and you'll face my exasperation. If you want a slave, I'll take the job. You'll get not only obedience but also a muse to inspire your gang."

"Deal! I'll ignore Koala's opposition if you honor your commitment. I've been wanting to confess that I've had feelings for you for so long, and now fate has brought us together in this unexpected way."

I see you, BoRat, respecting Burgundy's choice, without judgment or support. You understand her, though it pains you. You're resilient, prepared to confront Burgundy, acknowledging our freedom and unique views. Sometimes, it's wiser to respect others' decisions.

Yet, I wonder, why suffer when the outcome was predictable? Your efforts appear vain now.

And I must get my hands on Fluffy's diary; it's bound to reveal plenty about you.

BERSERK PHANTASMS

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