Azazel didn’t like the fact that he was being forced along on his family’s whim to take a change in settings, mostly because his father’s company offered him a job overseas. He wouldn’t have minded so much if it was in his home country, just another state where he could still visit his sparse friends that he had made, and maybe everything would have been fine. It didn’t hit him how far away he was going to be from everything that he knew and loved until he held the Vista in his hand, staring at it in disbelief.. His sister had been excited, and his mother, depended on the day.

His new home was just about the same size of his old one, a three bedroom two story house that they would be calling home until Azazel was able to move out and go back to Germany. At least there, he knew that he would have a full ride to a University, instead of this place where he would have to pay to attend one.. That and he didn’t really know how schools would work here anyway, although his parents and Heather kept reassuring him that everything was going to turn out fine and this way, he would have more freedom to choose what he wanted to do with his life.

The trouble with that was, he was rather content in going down whatever path his grades put him in, where his abilities would be automatically graded and he would be able to chose a path, things were too open ended here. He guessed that was why his parents thought it was a good idea for him and Heather to come here, because they could choose what to do, despite their grades, but that also left the question of what he would pick. Things would be much simpler if his skills were able to choose a path for him instead of having to pick something and pursue it himself…

“You start school in a few days,” his father informed both him and his sister while they drove up to their new home. “So please start practicing your English, as it would most likely be helpful if people were able to understand you both.”

“I’ve been practicing since I found out that we were moving,” Heather replied with a bright smile. “I think I’ve got most of it down.”

“Very good,” his father praised. His mother beamed quietly into the rearview mirror.

Azazel scowled and refused to answer in English; he was proficient and that was what mattered. He was going to fight this as hard as he could, although he doubted it would do him any good, but his pride wouldn’t let him live it down if he didn’t try to at least stand up for himself on the subject. He would speak his native language until he had to speak English, although he knew that would not be very far down the road. Either way, he had an entire few days to try to keep from speaking it.

“I’m good at it enough to be able to get my point across,” Azazel replied in German, not looking to his parents for their reactions. He instead looked out the window, wishing for something that resembled home rather than this alien place he had to go to. “I don’t see the need to practice constantly since we’re going to be speaking German at home anyway.”

“You don’t have to be so difficult about this,” Ida scolded lightly, not wanting to fight about this anymore than they already had. She already had to worry about getting Azazel on and off the plane; she did not want to have to argue about what language they would be speaking at home. “It’s not like you’ll have to stay here forever-- just until your father goes back to Germany or you turn 19 and ready to enter college. Then, you can move back on your own.”

“People graduate here when they’re 18,” Heather informed her, with a smirk. A whole year less of school was a whole year that she could spend not in the confines of a stuffy room. “Besides, my grades don‘t dictate my career choice.”

“At least you’d have a future if they did that,” Azazel muttered to himself, watching the passing scenery with little interest. It would be pretty in the fall, he had to admit, tress lining the divides of the intersection and houses lining each side of the street. “There’s too much uncertainty the way things are done here.”

Gunther sighed heavily at his son’s reluctance to this change; he expected it with Azazel, who was never the one to take big changes easily. He was sure that he would eventually warm up to America. Yes, this place prided itself on its freedoms, but he had to agree with Azazel that there were just too many variables in that way of thinking, but he did not want to dampen anyone’s spirits let alone give his son any leverage he could use against him.

“Well, it’s better than being forced to do something I don’t want to do,” Heather muttered, excitement coming back as easily as it left, as she looked at the new house that they were going to be living in.

It was a brick house with multiple windows facing a moderately sized yard. A large oak tree stood in the backyard, while a cottonwood loomed over the front walk. Azazel snorted at that, as he just knew that one or the other would give his allergies a fun run around in the spring. He just hoped that he would not be the one to shovel when it snowed, rake when the leaves piled up, or have to mow the lawn, although he was sure that he would have to. He guessed that he would be able to do some of it, as long as he was not stuck with all of it. Just because his grades would not affect the job he would get or the school he would be going to, he did not want to slack off simply because he could.

“Here’s our new home,” Ida said happily, looking out of the window, looking very excited about the prospect of turning the empty space into a welcoming home. “Although it won’t look like a home for a few days until our furniture comes in.”

Azazel rolled his eyes, mostly since he felt that she would go on and on about the plans she had. He was just happy that he would not have to sleep on the floor for very long, and did not look forward to it at all. He looked over at Heather, who looked out at the house with high expectations, making him want to shake his head. Everyone seemed excited about this but him, but then again, he did not expect very good things to come from this country, but somehow wished he were wrong.

Azazel yawned, not really awake yet and grumbling about the ungodly hour of the day and being awake. He could not believe that schools started so early. Back in Germany, at least the sun was up before he was awake, unlike this schedule.. Plus, he still was not used to the time change, even if it seemed that Heather had an easy time adjusting. Sometimes, he wished he could be as flexible as his sister was in terms of the way she was able to just adapt to any situation and flourish. He yawned again, wanting nothing more than to go back to bed and wake back up in Germany and he just happened to roll off his bed onto the floor, although he knew that was not the case.

“Azazel,” Heather called for him, already showered and almost ready for school, from the stairs. “You’re gonna miss breakfast if you wait any longer. School doesn’t start at 8:15 anymore.”

“I know,” he replied dryly, willing himself out of bed. He yawned again, pulling his mid back length blonde hair into a low ponytail to at least keep it out of the way. He was not sure to expect on his first day, but starting class at 7:18 in the morning was pure torture and he had to go in early to get his classes, which made him, just want to climb back under the covers and pretend as if he did not even know what day of the week it was.

“Get you blonde butt down here and eat something,” Heather yelled a bit more urgently when he still did not come down. “I’m not gonna let you off the hook this time!”

With another yawn, he went downstairs, simply to appease Heather, who always seemed to make sure that he was eating properly. It was a little embarrassing that his little sister had to take care of him like that, but he just had to get used to the time difference and the tables would switch once again, with him rousing her and making sure she was the one who was able to get breakfast. Not that anyone had to know about it anyway, not like he had anyone to tell.

“You’re such a pain sometimes,” she muttered, taking another bite of toast. “At least set your alarm or something.”

“Did you even sleep,” he asked dryly, taking a bite of toast himself. “You’re usually not up this early no matter what is going on.”

“Of course I did, a girl has to make sure she’s in proper condition for starting in a new school,” Heather replied with a grin. “Unlike you, who will most likely go unnoticed unless you try to draw attention to yourself. What I wouldn’t’ do to be able to do that.”

Azazel shook his head, checking the kitchen clock for the time. It was nearing the time that he had to be out to the bus stop, although he wished it would just roll back an hour so he would be able to sleep some more. He could not wait until his bed and other belongings such as his dresser came so he would be able to at least put his clothes away and sleep properly. He got up, messed up Heather’s hair, which she protested at, took his book bag from in front of the door, and was out standing in the brisk air of the early autumn.

There were other people at the bus stop, chatting away about life and catching up what had happened during the weekend. He kept to himself, refusing to acknowledge the curious glances that he received from some of the others, as well as the whispers among the cliques that were near enough for him to catch a few words. He could not say he was surprised at their actions, as he was from another country and looked awkward standing by himself. It would be the same if any one of the others came to Germany and entered the classroom.

The bus came, Azazel happy to find an open seat and quickly slid by the window. He was not able to sit by himself for long, as a rather chatty girl sat next to him, but she ignored and chose to chat with her friends in the seat in front of them. The ride to the dull brown building was not that bad, he had to admit, but getting off the bus was a different story. Everyone seemed to crowd the aisle at once, making him wish that fewer students rode this particular bus. There was nothing he could do about where the other students lived, or the fact that they all shared the same bus, however. It would just be something that he would have to deal with.

Upon entering the school, he had little trouble finding the office, as it was directly to his left, for which he was thankful. He did not want to think about what if it was somewhere else, as it would mean that he would have to ask one of his piers where the office was located and he was resolved to make as few friends here as possible so that he would not feel bad about leaving as soon as he was able to. Although a few friendships were sure to happen, he was confident that he would be able to leave with no problem and go back to Germany where things at least made some sort of sense.

The woman behind the counter looked somewhat stern while she typed away at her computer keyboard, Azazel trying to build up the courage to announce himself as he opened and closed the door softly, making his way up to the counter. He consciously reminded himself to speak English instead of his native tongue, as it would only confuse the both of them if he slipped into German.

“What can I help you with,” the woman smiled at him, her stern face actually transforming into that of someone that looked as if he did not have to fear her.

“I’m Azazel Wolfram,” Azazel began, hoping his accent was not too thick to understand. Then again, English and German came from the same family name tree, so he was sure that at least whomever he was talking to would be able to understand him partially. “I’m here for my schedule and anything else that needs to be taken care of here.”

“Aah, you’re the German transfer student,” the woman smiled. If you could wait right here, we can get you everything, although you’ll have to wait for a locker, but we can give out a pass to allow you to carry around your book bag until we get you one assigned.”

Azazel just nodded along, watching the woman leave through a set of doors into what he assumed to be another office, most likely the councilor’s. The wait could not have been long, but he did not like how time seemed to slow down as he tried to keep his mind off the students moving through their daily routines. He knew that things ran differently here, such as the need for lockers, lunch or lunch money, as well as instead of the teachers moving around, the students did. He was sure that he would get this all down eventually, but it would take a long time to get used to it…

“Here you are,” the woman said, handing Azazel a packet of papers that he looked over quickly, finding his schedule and pass easily and putting the rest in his book bag for later inspection. “I’ve also called down the head of the student council to show you around, since you are a foreign student and it will help you adjust easier. Also, good luck in your studies, as those are some pretty high classes you picked.”

“Thank you,” Azazel smiled, trying to make it look as genuine as he possibly could without really meaning it. “I’ll do my best.” In truth, he knew he would be fine; he only hoped he could understand the teachers if they used a word that he did not understand, but that would be easily remedied. Dictionaries excited for a reason after all.

A few minutes later, a tall boy entered the office. Azazel looked at him with a smile and waved. He could not say he disliked him, but something was off, something that he did not like. The boy had short, curly brown hair, and bright clear chocolate eyes, and tanned skin. He was most likely a sports player of some sort, judging by his muscular build. He had the air as if he ran the school, and most likely did and this would be the only time that they would even talk to each other or pretend to get along, hopefully anyway. He did not want to become friends with whoever else was with this guy, especially if they all looked so pretentious.

“You must be the student I’m gonna show around,” the boy smiled at him. “I’m Michael, welcome to America. I hope you enjoy your stay.”

Azazel’s first impression was that he was nice enough to give a chance, for now at least. “I’m Azazel, it’s a pleasure.”

“Shall we,” Michael asked, opening the door for the both of them. Azazel nodded, following him out, wondering exactly what this school held, and how he was going to last with a school that did not let out until afternoon.

*****

Vladamir was bored easily, and today did not seem to be an exception to the rule. He yawned again, almost wishing that he was somewhere else, anywhere else, than here. The teacher was off running an errand; not that was unexpected. It happened often enough and the teacher that was staying to watch over them was not teaching them anyway, telling them to study on their own as she opened the door to the other classroom so she could teach her class and leave them to their own devices without being too neglectful. There were a few poker games going on, and he was tempted to join in, but then again, that required effort and at the moment, he’d much rather watch.

“Vladdy,” he twitched when he heard that nickname he reserved for only two people in the world, and his younger sister was not here. “I’m bored. Entertain me.”

“Yasuo, get off me,” Vlad grumbled, resolving to pushing his friend off him. This had become common place, no wonder the school thought that they were still dating, although keeping his best friend his best friend still seemed to be the best choice, Yasuo had to agree, not ready for something as serious as a relationship as yet. It had felt weird to both of them, and they were so content before that they decided to remain friends. “You’re the only reason why they all think we’re still dating.”

“Let them have their wishful thinking,” Yasuo grinned, clinging tighter. “Besides, they’re all caught up in seeing the new transfer. Rumor has it, the kid’s from Germany and hot from what the girls are saying. I wouldn’t mind taking a look, as Germans are known for being kinda buff.”

Vlad rolled his eyes; he highly doubted that he was as good looking as the rumors were saying, mostly since rumors were rarely right and he did not need to be getting his hopes up that the guy would even consider dating another boy, if the person really was a boy. Either way, he did not want to be disappointed in any way.

Yasuo looked to the door, a shy looking boy and Michael, school jackass extraordinaire, with a shit-eating grin on his face. He felt sorry for the new kid, having to be lead around but that pervert of all people, but he sort of expected it. The guy was head of the Student Council after all.. How, Yasuo was sure there was some cheating going on. Never knew Michael to be the kind of person to win fairly. Either way, he felt sorry for the new guy, hopefully Michael would let him go at one point or another. The kid did not look like he belonged with the rest of the knuckleheads that Michael hung around with.

Vlad himself thought the Azazel was just as cute as the girls had said he was. Although he did not look like he ate properly, or the button down shirt and light colored dress pants were too baggy on him. Either way, he just wanted to make the boy take care of himself better, because if he did, he would be the biggest tease in the entire school. Hell, the entire city if he wanted to be. He knew that he was in lust at first sight, ignoring the squealing of some of the girls at just how cute he looked with Michael brooding over him. He could say he did not approve of the brute leading him around either, but like Yasuo, figured that he would be the office’s first choice for a guide.

Yasuo grinned down at Vlad, who looked like he had some wheels turning in his head. This could turn out to be an interesting day after all. “You know, staring at him won’t do anything but creep him out. And if I knew that you were into little scrawny blondes, I would have starved myself and dyed my hair.”

Vlad lightly blushed out of embarrassment and anger, giving his friend a hard glare. He knew the other was joking, but it was at his expense damn it. He could not help it if he liked the color silver, and it just happened to be Azazel’s eye’s color. “You know I like silver. Although I must admit, it’s a prettier eye color than a pretty hair color.”

At that, Yasuo scoffed, as if the comment hurt his feelings. “Well, you just say that because you’re jealous.” He sat down in the desk next to Vlad’s, pouting a bit as if he was trying to get sympathy from the other, but not getting it. Vlad’s attention was on Azazel, making Yasuo a tad jealous truthfully. Then again, any self respecting man would be in his place, his little crush not yet over with, feeling a tad hurt that Vlad was already looking at another person. He was sure he would get over it eventually. “Maybe if I dyed it blonde, you would have been more interested.”

With a dignified snort, he gave Yasuo another glare. “You know, you’re acting kind of jealous.”

“Just a little,” Yasuo grinned. “But you know, if you can pry him away from Michael, you may have a chance. Just show off that oh so intelligent brain of yours and you’ll have him wrapped around your finger.”

“Oh that hurt,” Vlad pouted. He knew that he was smart; Yasuo knew he was smart, but his placement in the class sure did not show it. He could not help that he had better things to be doing than homework, mostly video games and sometimes practicing the family trade, which needed more street smarts than any book smarts. Yasuo, on the other hand, was in the top three, rounding it out at third and had some street smarts too, which had Vlad almost jealous enough to try, but then he remembered how much work that would take now and figured that he could sit happy in the middle of the pack.

Azazel himself looked into the classroom that was to be his first hour class with boredom and maybe a bit of nervousness. He had to keep remembering that these weren’t the people he was stuck with all day, that he would be the one changing classes instead of the teachers, and that he was going to spend all day here, and even have a choice of extra circular activities, much more than in his home country. He expected the girls swooning; however, one of the boys would not stop looking at him, making him look away in discomfort. He was not some piece of meat to be staring at him like that, happy that his friend kept distracting him, although he only caught a few syllables here and there of their conversation, assuming that it was either what was going on between them or him as the subject like everyone else.

He only stepped out of his thoughts when Michael put a hand on his shoulder, making him jump a little, and the black haired boy glare at either him or Michael, he was not sure which. He hoped it was not him, as he did not want any trouble himself. He looked up at the other boy, who was smiling as if he was hiding something sinister behind his smile, but he would not tell what it was.

“I hope you enjoyed the tour. If you have any questions, there’s a map in the assignment book or you can just track me down and I’ll be happy to show you where everything is,” Michael said, turning to leave Azazel at the mercy of his new classmates. “See you around pet.”

Azazel already did not like the fact that he had a ‘nick name’ or the fact that he seemed to have the attention of everyone in the classroom. He looked around for an empty seat, taking one in the back that seemed secluded; opting to observe the way people acted towards each other here, verses what he was used to and grew up with. He did not like being on his own, and somewhere remotely hoped that Heather was having an easier time than he was, although he was sure she was. She was always the kind to make many friends quickly, while he liked to take things a bit slower, although his resolve to go through school alone was faltering. This was scary enough on his own.

“Heeey, why don’t you go introduce yourself,” Yasuo grinned, watching the other teen try to exclude himself from the rest of the class. “You seem interested enough in him.”

“He looks like he’ll either run away or jump down someone’s throat,” Vlad replied, trying hard to pretend he did not want to do it. “Besides, we don’t know how well his English is.”

“It’s just fine,” Azazel growled out, his accent thick but understandable at least. “And don’t talk about people you don’t know. It’s rude.”

Vlad turned towards Azazel, who was a mere four seats away from him, and flashed a daring grin, something he was known for when presented with a challenge. “So it can speak. Welcome to our version of hell on earth. I’m Vladamir and this annoying jerk is Yasuo. Nice to meet you.”

Azazel replied with a snort, figuring it would not hurt to introduce himself either. He was trying not to be curious about these boys, and why Vladamir held such a fascination for him. The fact that he did shook him up a bit, and not in a good way. “I’m Azazel Wolfram. A pleasure,” he replied shortly.

This was going to be one hell of a day.This was going to be one hell of a day.