Battle Droid Academy

By Brian Rech

Join Tomoka and his friends as they go through life at Battle Droid Academy. Where they learn how to control and piolet machines called battle droid. Everything is all good and well until Tomoka starts to find out about a family he has that he doesn't even know about. His friends do their best to help him figure things out and keep everyone safe at the school.

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Jan 30, 2023
• ISBN: 9781663248343

Brian Rech

I've become a witer because it's one of the things that I love to do. I was inspired by my older brother to become a writer. The inspiration however for this book was all the anime that I love to watch and I took the anime route when I wrote this book. Hope you all enjoy it.

Book preview

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1

An alarm clock was beeping loudly. It went off for two minutes before a hand emerged to shut it off. A young teenage boy yawned and stretched from waking up. The boy was just laying there letting his eye sight adjust, when he heard a voice approaching from the other side of his bedroom door.

Tomoka. Tomoka! the voice said getting closer to his room.

‘Oh crap! It’s Cassie! Did I lock my door last night?’ Tomoka thought to himself.

Next thing he knew, Cassie came barging in his room, shouting at him to wake up. Tomoka didn’t have any time to react before Cassie made it over to his bed. She grabbed the side of his blanket, yanking it off of him. Tomoka quickly curled up turning his back towards her as if he were cold.

Hey Tomoka. Why’d you curl up like that? It’s not even cold in here. Cassie asked him.

It’s… it’s because… I have morning wood. Tomoka replied in embarrassment.

Cassie’s face turned quickly from curiosity, to frustration, and a bit angry. Seconds later Cassie’s fist came flying down punching Tomoka in the head.

Oww. Why’d you do that? he asked, rubbing his head.

Tomoka! That’s not something you say to a girl! It’s a no wonder why you’re still single.

For one that’s your fault. You need to stop barging into my room every morning. Also what does any of that have to do with me being single?

Never mind that. Just hurry up and get dressed. We don’t want to be late on our first day at the academy. I’ll be waiting downstairs for you.

She stormed out the room slamming the door shut behind her. Tomoka sat up and let out a sigh.

Man. Girls are so weird. he said to himself.

Ten minutes of waiting and Tomoka finally came downstairs, wearing his uniform.

Morning mom. Morning dad. Tomoka said.

Morning Tomoka. both his parents replied.

Aren’t you forgetting someone? Cassie asked annoyed.

I thought we said good morning when you punched me in my head this morning. Tomoka said.

Oh shut up and eat your breakfast. It’s getting cold already. Cassie said sticking her tounge out at him.

Tomoka sat down at the table and started to eat. His mom then turned to them with a smile on her face.

Just like a married couple. Hashing out their problems. his mom said.

Cassie was taking a sip of some orange juice when his mom said that. The comment made Cassie spray spit the juice out. Her eyes got big as her face turned bright red.

Mom! Tomoka shouted almost choking on his food

What are you saying!? We’re not fighting like a married couple. Cassie added turning away in embarrassment

His parents both chuckled some in laughter.

Oh I’m just teasing you two. Mrs. Watson said

Well can we change the subject? Tomoka asked

Yes please. Cassie said in agreement

Smiling, his mom did change the subject.

So are the two of you excited to start at Battle Droid Academy? she asked

I’m very excited to start. Just meeting so many new people is going to be fun. Cassie answered.

‘Yea I’m excited! I get to see a lot of hot girls in their school uniform!’ Tomoka thought to himself with a big grin on his face.

Cassie smacked Tomoka on the back of his head, telling him to get his mind out the gutter. A few minutes later, Tomoka’s mom looked over at a clock that was on the kitchen wall.

Oh my. Look at that time. We better get going so the two of you aren’t late. she said

She’s right. Ok kids. Grab your bags and let’s get going. Tomoka’s dad added. Emily! we’re leaving now! he shouted.

A young 12yr old girl came running down the steps. It was Tomoka’s younger sister.

Aww man. I missed breakfast again. Emily grunted.

That’s because you always oversleep. Tomoka told her.

Emily stuck her tongue out at Tomoka before running over and giving him a big hug.

I’m going to miss you big brother! Emily said.

Don’t worry sweetie, we’ll be back for winter break. Cassie said patting Emily on the head.

Emily turned towards Cassie. She had the cutest, most adorable look on her face. It quickly turned into a straight face.

I wasn’t talking to you big boobs. Emily said firmly.

What!? Why you little…

Emily took off running with Cassie chasing after her. Cassie didn’t get far as Tomoka grabbed the back of her uniform, pulling her outside. She started yelling and telling Tomoka to let go so she could pummel his sister. Ignoring her yells, Tomoka dragged her out to the car and put her inside.

Make sure to lock up! their parents shouted to Emily.

As they drove off, Emily was giving Cassie the stink eye.

Your sister hates me. Cassie said staring out the window

No she doesn’t. Tomoka replied

Then why is she always picking on me and annoying me all the time?

It’s just how she is. You know that.

Ok. Why does she always have to call me big boobs then? They’re not that big are they?

Well actually…

Before Tomoka could finish that sentence, Cassie became very frustrated and punched Tomoka on the top of his head.

You weren’t supposed to answer that.

Tomoka’s parents glanced back at them and smiled. The rest of the car ride to the Academy was in silence. The Academy was a couple of hours away. When they arrived, Tomoka and Cassie had fallen asleep. Cassie’s head was resting on Tomoka’s shoulder. His mom took a picture with her cell phone. The noise of the camera shutter woke Cassie up.

It took Cassie a couple seconds to realize the position she was in. Once she did, Cassie quickly moved back to the other side of the car. Her face was a little red as she started to blush some. To wake Tomoka up she nudged him a bit.

Hey sleepy head. We’re here. Cassie said.

Tomoka woke up and his eyes opened in amazement. The front gates to the academy stood about fifteen feet tall and were ten feet wide. Covered in gold and silver, they were the most beautiful gates he had ever seen. They got out of the car and grabbed their bags. Walking up to the gate,

Tomoka noticed his parents weren’t following them through.

Hey mom, dad. Aren’t you coming? Tomoka asked

This is as far as we go son. his dad responded. Only students are allowed through the gates.

Tomoka and Cassie walked over to his parents and hugged them both. They said their goodbyes and walked through the front gates. Upon passing through, they were told all new students were to report to the west wing gymnasium. Like most new students they walked to the gymnasium in awe of the academy school grounds. Off to the side of them were some upperclassmen doing exercises. The walk to the gym was about ten minutes.

As they approached the building there were a couple staff members at the entrance, guiding the new students in. Right before entering the gym, a couple of upperclassmen girls walked up to the line of new students. One of the girls purposely bumped into one of the male students that was five feet ahead of Tomoka and Cassie. The boy fell down and the girl started to snap on him.

Hey new kid. You should be more careful where you’re going! Now apologize for not watching where you were going. she demanded.

The boy apologized with a soft and shaky voice.

That’s your apology!? Pathetic! Since you can’t verbally apologize, I want you to kiss my shoes. the girl said.

He got down on his hands and knees, and began to slowly crawl over to kiss her shoes. The whole time this was happening, the staff at the doors just stood there and watched. Seeing this was starting to really piss Tomoka off. Tomoka tried his best to hold back.

When the boy got close to kissing the girl’s shoes, she kicked him in the face knocking him over. The three girls with her started to point and laugh at the boy. Tomoka was unable to hold back any longer and snapped.

That’s enough you bitch! Tomoka shouted.

Everyone went silent including all the girls with her. The girl that kicked the boy looked over at Tomoka with a straight face.

What did you just call me? the girl asked.

You heard me. Just because your an upperclassman doesn’t give you the right to bully us underclassmen. Tomoka said in a firm voice

Do you know who you’re talking to underclassman? the girl asked snapping at him.

Yea. A bully with a big mouth that needs to be shut. Tomoka responded.

Why you little jerk!

Tomoka’s comment pissed off the girl. She was about to deploy her battle droid but was stopped by a loud shouting voice.

That’s enough Nina!

Nina looked over to see the student council president standing five feet away from them. She put her arm down and turned towards the president.

Where you about yo deploy your battle droid? he asked.

Yes I was. But it was only to…

I don’t care the reasoning. he said, cutting her off. But there will be no battles or interruptions of any kind before the welcoming ceremony. Now stand down.

But sir.

Don’t make me repeat myself Nina.

Yes sir.

Nina looked over at Tomoka before walking away.

This is far from over, newbie.

Tomoka walked over to the boy and helped him up. The three of them walked in and found seats together.

Hey thanks for helping me out back there. The name’s Chase.

Tomoka. I just hate bullies.

I’m Cassie. she said butting in.

Well I’m sure that scene you caused with her is going to prove troublesome down the road. Chase said.

I don’t care. If she wants to fight she’s got one. Tomoka said.

Day one, new school, and already getting into trouble. Cassie said, crossing her arms. What am I going to do with you.

Tomoka shrugged his shoulders and smiled. It took another twenty minutes before the rest of the new students were in and seated. Once they were all in, the principal of the academy took center stage in front of all of them. The entire room went silent as he cleared his throat before speaking.

Let me begin by welcoming you all to Battle Droid Academy. Now usually this is where I explain all the rules and what is to be expected of you here at the academy. But this year I’m going to let your Student Council President give you all the details.

The principal stepped down as the student council president took the stand. His speech, which was very well put together, lasted for two hours. Once it was over all the students had the rest of the day off.

All the new students went to the dorms to find their designated rooms. Tomoka went up to the third floor if the guys dorm to find his room. He stopped in front of a door with the numbers 3054 above it. Off to the side of the door it had his and his roommates name on it. The other name by his name was Chase. Tomoka hesitated to go in the room when he saw Chase’s name.

Chase. I wonder if it’s the same student I met earlier today. he said quietly to himself.

Tomoka then entered the room, closing the door behind him.

Hello? Is anyone in here? Tomoka asked.

Chase, already in the room, came around the corner to greet Tomoka.

Hey! So looks like you and I will be roommates for the next four years. Chase said with a smile

Guess so. Tomoka responded.

So dude. Have you had a chance to check out this awesome room yet!? Chase asked in excitement.

Umm…I just walked through the door. Tomoka retorted.

Oh right. Well then let me give you a quick tour. To your right upon walking in we have a little kitchen area. Our own kitchen area! Then to the left is our bathroom, which has a shower but if you need to use the restroom you have to go down the hall. Then as you walk in more we have a couple of desks and two beds. I mean look at all the space we have! I haven’t chosen a bed yet but figured I’d wait til you got here to decide. So which bed do you want?

I’ll take the bed closer to the window if you don’t mind.

Not at all.

Chase’s personality was a little too cheerful for his liking. Was understandable though, since Tomoka had helped him out earlier. Tomoka could tell that they were going to get along just fine. As Chase continued to admire their room, Tomoka walked over to his bed and set his bag down. He then sat and laid down on his bed.

Hey Tomoka?

Yea?

Would you want to explore the academy with me?

Sure why not. The president did say to familiarize ourselves with the school grounds. Just let me call Cassie and the three of us can scope the place out together.

Cassie? Is that the pretty girl you were with earlier today?

Yea.

Is she your girlfriend? If she is, I’m so jealous of u you right now.

Tomoka’s face turned bright red when he was asked that. He quickly jumped up from the bed and faced towards the window.

What!? Why would you ask something like that? She’s not my girlfriend. She’s just my childhood friend.

Okay whoa. Calm down there dude. It was just a simple question.

Right.

Tomoka let his shoulders drop some and gave out a sigh. He felt as if he overreacted some and was a little embarrassed. Tomoka quickly shook off the feeling, pulled out his cell phone, and called Cassie.

‘Hey Tomoka. What’s up!’ Cassie said answering her phone

Oh nothing. My new roommate Chase and I were going to explore the academy together. So I was wondering if you wanted to meet up with us and explore with us?

‘Sure! I’d love to!’

Great. How bout we meet in the courtyard in fifteen?

‘Sounds good. I’ll meet you guys there.’

Tomoka hung up his phone, putting it back in his pocket. Chase and Tomoka then left their dorm room to wait for Cassie in the courtyard.

Chase and Tomoka were the first to arrive in the courtyard. Shortly after their arrival, Cassie showed up also bringing along her new roommate.

Hey! Hope we didn’t keep you boys waiting too long. Cassie said.

Nope. Not at all. Tomoka replied.

So who’s your cute friend you brought with you? Chase asked.

The girl hid behind Cassie showing she was shy of new people.

Hey no need to be shy. Guys this is Tanya. She’s my roommate. A little shy but a really nice person once you get to know her. Cassie said.

Well my name is Tomoka and this here is my roommate Chase.

It’s a pleasure to meet you. Chase said extending his hand out Cassie immediately shook his hand. Tanya also extended her hand to shake his.

Nice to meet you too. Tanya said.

Well now that introductions are done, let’s walk, talk, and get to know each other. Plus explore this huge academy! Chase said.

All of them nodded their heads and chose a direction to start walking in.

Look at all this fresh meat. a boy said.

Who cares. Nina responded.

Who cares? This is usually the best day of every year! So what do you mean who cares? the boy asked.

I’m not in the mood. I don’t feel like messing with any of these newbies.

Wow. Someone’s in a bad mood.

Nina grunted and continued looking through the crowd of new students walking around.

She already has a target. another boy said.

Wow, really!? But we just got out here. the first boy said.

One of the new students called her a bitch. So Nina already has her sights set on someone. the second boy said

Is this kid stupid or something?

Shut up! Both of you! Nina shouted.

Nina was getting annoyed hearing about the new kid. She got up and walked away. Nina only got five feet away before getting stopped by the second boy.

Hey isn’t that him? The one that called you a bitch? he said pointing towards Tomoka.

Nina looked and IMMEDIATELY spotted him. She turned and began walking towards Tomoka.

When she got fifteen feet away from him, Nina shouted to get his attention. Tomoka stopped dead in his tracks and turned to see who was shouting at him.

You’re the little twerp that called me a bitch earlier. Nina scolded.

Well that’s what you were being when you were picking on my friend. Tomoka said.

Oh. So that weakling is your friend now.? Nina said.

Yes he is. You’re also still acting like a bitch.

My my. This little one has no respect for his upperclassmen. one of the boys said.

I think Nina, it’s time to teach this boy a lesson. the other boy said.

Nina, all red in the face from anger, quickly agreed with them. Tomoka took a few steps in front of everyone and put up his fists getting ready to fight. Both boys and Nina looked at Tomoka with weird looks on their faces. A couple of seconds later all three of them busted out laughing. Them laughing left Tomoka and his friends a little confused.

What’s so funny? Tomoka demanded.

What are you planning to do? Box?

One of the boys said laughing hard.

I don’t understand. Tomoka said.

Nina stopped laughing and looked at him with a smile.

Since you’re new here I’ll explain it to you. Here at Battle Droid Academy, we don’t fight with our fists, we fight with our battle droids. Most fights happen in the arenas that are here on campus. Some fights however, if you want a bigger battle field, are fought right here in the courtyard. Although those fights have to be approved by a staff member and are more personal. Nina explained.

Besides a bigger battle field, what’s the difference between an arena battle and a courtyard battle? Tomoka asked.

Less restrictions. Plus my beef with you is more personal. So with that said, I challenge you to a courtyard battle. Do you accept?

Yes, I accept. Tomoka said without hesitation.

Wait a second! Cassie blurted out.

Too late sweety. He already accepted my challenge. Nina said with a grin.

He doesn’t even have a battle droid yet. Let alone know how to use one! You have a very unfair advantage. Cassie said

Hmm. She has a point there. I mean he won’t even get his training droid for another week. No staff member will approve the duel. one of the boys said.

Fine. The fight will take place in two weeks. Nina said.

Two weeks? Cassie asked.

Don’t worry. He’ll have his training droid by then and know the basics. It’s plenty of time to prepare. Nina said.

Plenty of time for…

Two weeks it is. Tomoka said cutting Cassie off.

Hope you’re ready to die, pip squeak.

Nina and her two friends started to walk away. Tomoka also started to walk away. Cassie looked at Tomoka with a worried face. Tanya looked over at Cassie noticing how worried she looked.

Cassie. Why do you look so worried? Tanya asked.

Cause. In situations like this, Tomoka doesn’t think. He just rushes into fights. Even if he has no chance of winning. Cassie said.

Well he’s just sticking up for his friends. It’s actually kinda sweet and something I can admire in a guy. Tanya said

‘Sweet? Something she can admire? Is she starting to like my Tomoka? Wait a second. Why am I referring to him as my Tomoka?’ Cassie thought to herself.

Hey Cassie? Your face is turning red. Are you feeling okay? Tanya asked.

Cassie’s eyes got real big in embarrassment. She straightened her body and looked away.

I’m feeling just fine. Perfectly ok. Come on, let’s hurry and catch up to them before we lose them.

She grabbed Tanya’s hand and started walking. Tanya smiled and giggled some. She knew she had just made some good friends.

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2

Tomoka’s alarm was going off. His sleepy arm reached over and turned it off. With one eye open he looked at the time. It was 6:30am, a half hour earlier than what he had originally set it for. A little confused he turned over and opened his other eye. Only to find Cassie hovering over him looking straight down at him.

Morning sleepy head. Cassie said with a smile.

Tomoka took a yelp and fell off the bed.

How the hell did you get in here? On second thought, don’t answer that. Tomoka said.

What are you doing here?

I’m just making sure you get up. Cassie responded.

This isn’t my house anymore. It’s the guys’ dorm. You could get in a lot of trouble for being here. Plus why did you set my alarm a half hour early?

Come on. I know you Tomoka. If you don’t get up early like this, you’ll be late for class everyday.

Chase, who was sleeping, heard all the commotion waking up. He stretched, yawned and sat up.

What’s with all this racket? Chase asked.

As his eyes adjusted he saw Cassie standing in their room. He was about to give a holler.

Tomoka flew across the bed knocking Chase over and covering his mouth. He kept his hand over his mouth till Chase calmed down.

What the hell is she doing in here!? Chase asked.

Making sure I get up. Keep it down though so we don’t all get in trouble. Tomoka said

Is she going to be here long? I’d kinda like to get dressed. Chase said.

No. She was just leaving. Weren’t you Cassie. Tomoka said in an irritated voice.

"Wow. No need to be rude. Just wanted to make sure you got up. Anyway Tanya