Chapter 38 of 77

30° Spotted!? Learned!? Can't fit in!

Intelligent Pretty Cure!!! !!!!!!!!2,798 words~14 min read

Times later.)

Inuyama pretented to be a catgirl...)

Inuyama: Meow!~ Can you see? Can you see who I am?! That's right! I'm a cat!~ Nya nya~ SUTEKI!~ *winking*

Arigaoa: *facepalms*

Inuyama: Purr! 😸😽

---

OPENING

---

Arigaoa: I still can't believe what happened yesterday... I thought that our town was almost going to get wiped out... and the person who helped us save it was Ryuuto, of all people...

Inuyama: *nibbling on a cookie, smiling* I don't know what you mean by that, Arigaoa-chan. He helped us, sure, but he was really brave. We all ended up safe and sound, and we got a nice party afterwards! It was a great day!

Faith: You just can't stop smiling, can you Inuyama?

Arigaoa: Well, that's not a bad thing... smiling is better than frowning. Though I don't recall having a party at all.

Iken: I wonder where he is now. I mean, he helped us a lot.

Faith: He's probably going on a stroll.

Inuyama started scratching the ground as she noticed something inside. She then proceeded to make a dog pose.)

Inuyama: Wan?~ *blushing*

Arigaoa: Let's stop thinking about it, okay? There's nothing more we can do for him.

Inuyama's smile widened as she took out a bag of treats and started feeding them to the squirrels and birds that came her way. She then started licking her fingers, which were now covered in bird poop.)

Inuyama: Tasty... 😌

Arigaoa: *looking over her shoulder* Ehh... Inuyama, don't eat the bird poop! That's gross!

Faith: Oh dear, this is going to be a bad day.

Iken: We better go before she starts eating the dirt next.

Inuyama: Oh, I just found the bag in the ground. It was buried here.

Arigaoa: Wait, WHAT?!

Mine: Inuyama, no...!

Inuyama put a finger on her mouth and gave her usual smile.)

Inuyama: It's fine! I'm not hurt or anything.

Arigaoa: Don't ever do that again, alright?

Inuyama: *tilts her head* Do what?

Faith: Just stop it, Inuyama.

A feminine figure appeared right in front of everyone.)

Zip: Dalia?

Dalia: I am sent by the Primary Sphere. It saddens me to tell that, but the items aren't enough... You need to fight until the end to recover peace to all of our worlds... please let me know when everything is back to normal.

She disappeared.)

Arigaoa: Who was she?

Zip: A messenger from the Primary Sphere, zippu. It's another kingdom close to Yual World.

Inuyama: This is getting tiring... can we please have a fight now...? Can a bebe come earlier for once?

Faith: No, we've had enough trouble yesterday.

Inuyama: But, Faitchy-san!

Faith: No fighting for us right now, Inuyama.

Inuyama: ...

Arigaoa: I'm glad we don't need a fight now.

Faith: I feel like it's inevitable, though...

---

Ryuuto was walking somewhere, thinking about the fact that he just became a Pretty Cure and he wanted to know more about the other Cures like he did before. He had earphones with him. He's pretty chatty and his voice carries fairly easily.)

Ryuuto: I saw the Pretty Cures, and they were amazing. So beautiful and had powers that no one could even dream of. I was one too.

He then started thinking to himself again.)

Ryuuto: But somehow... it makes me feel weird to say today. People would think I'm in love with them just because I'm a boy, but it's not like that. I just want to know more about them. I mean, how can someone be so beautiful and powerful? I wonder what makes them so strong. I want to know. I want to know, but...

He then stopped thinking as he started to see a familiar place and went into it.)

Ryuuto: I hope I didn't miss the bus again.

Ryuuto took off his earphones.)

?: Ryuuto!

He turned to the person who called him, but no one was here.)

Ryuuto: Huh?

Then, he saw a girl in front of him.)

Ryuuto: W-Woah! Where did you come from?

Yoshimitsu: From the other side. My name's Yoshimitsu. Can you see me?

Ryuuto: Yeah.

Yoshimitsu: I heard that you wanted to know more about Pretty Cures, right?

He looked away and scratched his head awkwardly.)

Ryuuto: Y... You just surprised me, and I got shocked because you called me by my name right away. I never met you before sooo... *he didn't seem to care that she said what he wanted to learn about*

Yoshimitsu: I just know a lot about people. It's only natural...

Ryuuto: *concerned* What?

---

The six friends walked down the road. Arigaoa's eyes were focused on a nearby flower shop. The flowers were blooming nicely. Iken started looking around the place, having a longing feeling.)

Iken: *saddened* I wish I didn't have any flower allergies... mom was right, flowers are so beautiful...

Inuyama: Are you talking to me?

Iken: No, not at all.

Arigaoa: I'm sure that we can find the best place for you to enjoy everything.

Iken: *nods*

---

Back to Ryuuto.)

Ryuuto: Are you a Pretty cure too? If you are, I want to be friends with you. Please? Pretty Cures are always together, right?

Yoshimitsu: Hmm? You want to be friends with me? Well, I suppose that would be nice. What's your reason?

Ryuuto: I have an idea.

Yoshimitsu: Idea?

Ryuuto: You know, like when we find inspiration and stuff.

Yoshimitsu: A mind jukebox?

Ryuuto: Yes, that's it. But don't interrupt me while I introduce a few things.

He speaks enthusiastically for a while, without giving any attention to the pain that his voice is causing her.)

Ryuuto: Usually Pretty Cures never give their identities to others but since I knew that you were one because you told me, I asked you that.

Yoshimitsu: I came in the forest to take a walk. What brings you here?

Ryuuto: The same thing. At some point, I thought I was lost; I'm bad at directions. I haven't been here in a while, so I thought I'd go alone.

Yoshimitsu: *she's curious about something, and asks it*

Ryuuto: Oh, yeah, I was listening to music.

Yoshimitsu: What's the song?

Ryuuto: It's a progressive song that's called "Tick Hours."

Yoshimitsu: Tick Hours? What does that mean?

Ryuuto: Well, I can't really explain. You'll have to listen to it to find out.

Yoshimitsu: Why are you in a rush?

Ryuuto: Because this is the best song on the playlist.

Yoshimitsu: But if you really want me to tell you more about Pretty Cures, then don't waste my time with that, okay?

Ryuuto: Oh yeah, sorry.

---

The Cures were still hanging out, while Iken was taking notes of things she wanted to remember or learn about. The aroma of freshly-cut grass filled the air, mixing with the faint scent of ink from Iken's pen. The scratching of her pen against the paper echoed softly in the background as the Cures continued their conversation.)

Arigaoa: Looks interesting. What kind of stuff?

Iken: You'll see.

Inuyama: Come on, share!

Iken: No.

Inuyama: *looking down* Oh...

Faith: It's rude to ask someone to share their personal things.

Iken: But I will share this much - it's about the history of the world and how it all came to be.

Arigaoa: Wow, that sounds like something we should all know.

Inuyama: *jumps in* I want to hear it too!

Faith: ...Iken, if you share it, we promise to keep it confidential.

Iken: Alright, but it won't be complete. I just recently found out some interesting parts and I'm still learning myself.

---

Yoshimitsu smiled and took a picture with her phone, but she already knew she wouldn't show these pictures to anyone. They had been discussing the Pretty Cures and their secrets, but Yoshimitsu had enough knowledge about them to not show anyone. She wanted to keep the photos for herself as a way to remember the day she met Ryuuto, the boy who wanted to be a Pretty Cure.

As the conversation continued, Ryuuto couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and wonder. He had heard so many rumors about the Pretty Cures, but now he was getting a glimpse into their world and learning about the mysteries that lay hidden just beneath the surface.)

Ryuuto: Wow, this is so incredible. I can't believe I'm finally getting to hang out with the Pretty Cures and learn their secrets. It's like living in a whole new world. I can't wait to see what else I can learn and maybe even join their ranks someday. *Ryuuto said, a dreamy look in his eyes*

Yoshimitsu: If you're interested in becoming a Pretty Cure, just remember that it's not all rainbows and butterflies. There are a lot of challenges and responsibilities that come with it.

Ryuuto: I understand that, but I also believe that any challenge can be overcome with determination and the support of my friends.

He then started thinking to himself.)

Ryuuto: I'm going to find them again. I'll be the first boy to become a Pretty Cure now- Wait, that's not entirely true. It already happened, didn't it? *he then felt ashamed of his thoughts from before* I don't have to say that. I might be a Pretty Cure. But I'm also a human. A normal human, and humans can be Cures as well. But this doesn't make sense. Was I really human once I transformed?

He walked further into the forest, though soon ran into Faith. She stopped him.)

Faith: You really did it this time. Seriously, what are you doing here? It's dangerous.

Ryuuto: Mind your own business.

Faith: Did you really think you could get away with something like that?

Ryuuto: And what are you gonna do about it?!

Yoshimitsu: *looking at the commotion* Oh no! What's happening?

Faith: He just insulted me and tried to pick a fight with me.

Ryuuto: What?! I didn't.

Faith was surprised by Ryuuto's denial.)

Faith: I'm just trying to help you, Ryuuto.

Faith replied calmly.)

Faith: It's not safe for you to wander around here on your own. The forest is full of dangers. I'm just worried about your safety.

He then snapped back his thoughts.)

Ryuuto: Wait, you're Faith. I didn't recognize you, my eyesight was bad for a few seconds. I'm sorry. I've just been so caught up in my thoughts and my dreams lately.

Faith: I understand that, Ryuuto. But now, we need to make sure you're safe. Let's go back.

---

Faith took Ryuuto by the arm, guiding him back through the forest, while she kept a watchful eye out for any potential dangers. All of them had gathered around a small campfire, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories of their adventures as Pretty Cures. As they walked, Ryuuto couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder and excitement. He had never been so close to something he had always dreamed of. He had never felt so out of place and so excited all at once.

Arigaoa reached out a hand to Arigaoa, but she hesitated for a moment. She wasn't sure how he would react. But she knew that she needed to make him feel welcome, and so she took a deep breath and extended her hand to Ryuuto.)

Arigaoa: Hmm... Ryuuto... I...

Ryuuto: What's wrong?

Arigaoa: I want to go eat more marshmallows.

Ryuuto's excitment suddenly dropped, and he felt a pang of realization that he might not be able to fit in with these people so easily. He then gave a confused expression.)

Ryuuto: Is that your idea of a welcoming gesture? Are you serious?

Arigaoa: *shrugging* I don't know. I just like the taste of the marshmallows.

Faith: Hey, don't worry about it. We're a pretty welcoming bunch around here. It's just that... well, we have some concerns about you.

Mine: *smiles a little* Marshmallows are great. Want me to roast one for you?

Arigaoa's eyes lit up, and she eagerly agreed.)

Arigaoa: Sure, that sounds like an amazing idea!

While they roasted marshmallows together, the group talked more to each other, until Yoshimitsu joined them again.)

Yoshimitsu: You really left me alone for such a long time. I thought you got lost or something. But it seems like you managed to find your way back.

Faith: I'm the one who found him. I was just wandering around in the forest, and there he was, all lost and confused. I thought he needed help.

Yoshimitsu: *sighs* I know that...

Ryuuto: That's okay, Yoshimitsu. It's always better to be safe than sorry. Besides, we're all friends here, and I'm happy to be here.

Yoshimitsu: I can't believe this is happening.

Suddenly, a dark blast from the sky rained down over the group of Cures as they sat around the campfire. The blast shook the ground and sent them all sprawling on the grassy floor.)

Mine: What the heck was that?!

Arigaoa: *gets up and looks around* Sounds like we've got a job to do here. Let's start investigating!

The Cures quickly changed into their Cure forms and began to scan the area, looking for any sign of an enemy. But they were met with a strange silence. No sounds of battle, no yelling or chaos. Just... nothing.)

Yoshimitsu: What's going on? Why did that happen?

Arigaoa: It's not happening right now, but I feel like it's a bad sign. Someone is definitely up to no good.

Piriki, one of the evil generals who could use her hair as a weapon, suddenly appeared in front of the group, her messy, spiked hair whipping around wildly.)

Piriki: (Translation: Hello there, Pretty Cures! Just enjoying the campfire, were you?)

Faith: What do you want, Piriki? You've caused enough trouble already.

Piriki: (Translation: Oh, I'm just here to have a little fun.)

Emerge, BeKan!

The monster, a BeKan, appeared from within the shadows. Its fists were two giant rocks and its eyes radiated malevolence. The Cures immediately sprang into action, attacking the BeKan with their powers. However, they were no match for it.)

Piriki: (Translation: I'll make it easy for you. This BeKan is weak, and you shouldn't have a hard time defeating it.)

Cure Smart: What do you mean?!

Piriki: (Translation: I mean exactly what I said. This BeKan is weak, and you shouldn't have a hard time defeating it.)

Cure Smart: But it's not working!

Piriki: (Translation: I'm obviously not saying the truth.)

BeKan: BeKan!

They all got a concussion because of the monster's hard rocks and were sent flying to the ground.)

All Cures: Aaaaah!

The BeKan then jumped forward and used its legs as drills. It was ready to bury and crush the Cures completely. But just when it looked as if all hope was lost, Yoshimitsu had an idea.

Emerging from her transformation device, Yoshimitsu appeared as Cure World. Her new form glowed with power, a combination of her own Cure form and the essence of the worlds' magic. She was a force of nature, her energy radiating out in all directions.

The BeKan, sensing the new power before it, hesitated for a moment, unsure of what to do. It raised its fists in a defensive stance, preparing for a new onslaught. But Yoshimitsu was not there to attack. Instead, she reached out a hand to the creature, a gesture of peace and understanding.

The BeKan, sensing the sincerity in her actions, faltered for a moment. It looked at Yoshimitsu, then around at the other Cures, and finally back to Cure World. It nodded once, as if agreeing to her terms, and slowly lowered its fists.)

Cure World: It's over, BeKan. We won't harm you if you promise to stop causing trouble.

BeKan: BeKan... not bad.

Cure Intello: That's it? Just like that?

Cure World: We can't defeat every enemy with violence. Sometimes, all it takes is a little understanding.

She then purified the monster. Piriki frowned.)

Piriki: (Translation: Well, this was a huge waste of time!)

She then disappeared.)

---

With the threat neutralized, the Cures regrouped and took a moment to catch their breath. The forest was once again peaceful, as if nothing had ever happened. But the Cures knew better. They knew that there were still more battles to be fought, more enemies to face.

As they made their way back to the campfire, Faith approached Ryuuto, her eyes filled with concern.)

Faith: Are you alright, Ryuuto? That was quite an ordeal.

Ryuuto nodded, unable to form words. The experience had been overwhelming, but he was also filled with a newfound determination.)

Ryuuto: I'm... fine. And thank you for saving me.

Faith smiled warmly at Ryuuto, her eyes shining with compassion and understanding.)

Faith: You don't have to thank me. We're all here to help and protect each other. That's what being a Pretty Cure is all about.

Ryuuto smiled.)

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