Disclaimer: I don't own FFXIII it rightfully belongs to square enix and character designer Tetsuya Nomura.
Italics are thoughts
** Communication through phones and other devices
Act I Prelude
Chapter 2 Overture past revisited II: the ties that bind
(One year ago)
(Location: highway city district Tokyo Japan)
(Date: January 13 2010 Monday)
(Time: 8:30 AM)
I sat happily in my seat as Lightning drove her car through the streets of the highway. I guess I was a little too excited, today is my first day in College, during the second semester of my first year. I was very excited from the last semester and my experience at the university was well, not quite pleasant. I did have my end of the welcome wagon, with how they happily greeted 'freshmen' to campus. It was annoying and humiliating.
Seriously, getting attacked by dozens of eggs, and a cartridge of bad milk was no way to greet someone to campus. Not even freshmen deserve that. I was so angry, luckily everyone on campus were kind enough to wash me away, because I stank badly. They did me a favor by spraying me with the emergency fire hose. Yeah, that helped a lot, I felt so much better , in a sarcastic manner of course.
I was so soaked, I eventually got a cold, and I had no choice but to call my sister to take me home. I remember how angry Lightning was when I told her what happened. She looked like a mad bull, ready to charge and ram anything that got in her way. If I told her who the group of students responsible were, she would have committed bloody murder.
But I didn't. Instead I told her that I didn't remember their faces well, they owe me big time for saving their backs. I know Lightning very well, and she wouldn't have stopped until she found them and made them pay. That's why I had to be absent for my first day in college. But aside that bad experience, I had a great time. I only met a couple of friends, though not the kind that would always hang out with me.
As for the teachers, I shouldn't be touching that topic, because all of the teachers I'm taking classes from are quite mean. I knew college was going to be tough, but with teachers like these, well, not only ordinary students would be getting a C-. I'm not kidding, if they were wild animals they would probably eat anyone alive. I don't consider myself a super genius.
I was always studying hard, to get the grades I earn through hard work. That's why I graduated from high school with high honors. Last semester I got a high score, earning grades of A+ and B+, so all my studying really paid off. This semester I was planning on doing better. I am always constantly challenging myself so I can do better each day. I was planning on becoming a history teacher.
I smiled as my sister left the highway and drove into the streets. I saw the buildings in the distance that were Tokyo University, back to another semester of hard studying, chatting with friends and probably dating someone. I mentally sighed at the last part. It would be impossible for me to meet a boy, not while I had Ms. Overprotective sister.
Sometimes, I just wished Lightning would lighten up a bit and let me date someone. I know she cares for me a lot, but she should give me a break. College is frustrating, and I wouldn't mind spending time with a cute guy who would understand me, make me laugh and show me a good time. Yeah right, that will only happen in my dreams. I know how stubborn Lightning can be, she would never let me date anyone, not even the same sex, but don't get me wrong I'm not gay.
I gave another mental sigh as I glanced at my dear older sister. I really do love her, she's the only family I have left after mom and dad passed away. I'm also over protective of her sometimes, but hey, I know she can take care of herself. She would never let a single man get close to her, much less touch her without getting beaten up. It made me smile in amusement imagining Lightning dating someone,that would be a real shock to me, I do know she's not gay.
I once caught her staring at a guy, but she completely pretended like he wasn't there. I still don't know what her type of man is. My sister noticed me as she reached the parking lot of the university. Still, I wouldn't mind if she finds herself a boyfriend, she deserves to be happy. Maybe if she finds someone she might soften up and let me date too. Yeah right, only in my dreams.
"What?" Lightning turned to me, aware of me staring at her.
"Huh-I haven't said anything."
"You were looking at me, giving me that look."
"What look?" I blinked there's no way she would figure me out so quickly.
"The look that says 'there's something bothering me' am I right?"
"I don't know what you're talking about, there's nothing wrong with me." I protested, I can't believe she could read me so easily.
"You think you can lie to me when I know something's bothering you?" she raised an eyebrow at me. I knew I couldn't hide it from her.
"Okay maybe there is, just stop giving me that suspicious look, it's so creepy."
"Works everytime." she gave a small grin. Yep, she was right.
"I was wondering if someday, you might let me um….."
"What, Serah?"
"I…" I blushed, I was so nervous in bringing up the topic.
"Look, we can't stay here, we both have class at nine. Out with it already…."
"Fine, will you give me permission to start dating?"
"Dating?" She raised an eyebrow, I didn't like it. She was giving me such a disapproving look.
"Yeah, I'm almost eighteen you know, the official age that makes me an adult. I was wondering if you would finally allow me to start seeing people."
"…."
"Sis….?" I got worried at her sudden silence.
"All right…."
"What?" I knew my eyes were the size of saucers.
"I'll allow it."
"Really you would?" I suddenly opened my mouth wide from the shock I couldn't believe she would actually allow me to date boys.
"Yes I don't have a problem with it."
"Thank you sis you're the best!" I jumped and gave her a big hug while she rolled her eyes.
"Of course, when you turn forty you can date anyone you like."
"What?" I quickly broke the hug, feeling a vein popping on the back of my head.
"You can date when you turn forty."
"That's crazy!" I shouted in annoyance, I knew it was too good to be true for her to agree so easily.
"Got a problem?"
"Yes I do, you can't expect me to start dating when I'm an old hag!"
"It's the right age for me."
"Well not for me. Sheesh sis, I'm beginning to think that you'll never find a boyfriend."
"I don't need one, men are unnecessary and useless."
"Spoken like an eternal bachelorette."I gave a sigh.
"We can continue this discussion later, you need to go to class, and I don't want to be late for mine either." She left the car.
I gave an annoyed sigh getting off too, closing my door followed by Lightning closing hers and activating the car alarm. How could she even suggest that I should date when I'm freaking forty years old. That's insane, would men actually find me attractive when I looked old? Maybe I was over reacting, but come on that's taking it too far.
I suddenly got the urge to tease her, something that would annoy her. It was my way of getting even with her for saying such a comment. I couldn't help but give an evil smirk, I already knew what to tell her.
"You know sis I can picture you when you turn forty. Your pink hair gone replaced with grey, living alone in a small apartment filled with cats and completely single."
"I can live with that." She replied coolly.
"What….?" I sweat dropped.
"See you later." She turned the other way, leaving me behind.
I couldn't believe her attitude, she really didn't mind becoming an old cat lady person. I didn't even know she likes cats in the first place. It irritated me that she didn't mind ending up like that. It made me feel sad for her, I care about Lightning a lot and nothing will make me happier than seeing her happy with someone.
I just know that out there, in this world, there was a man who could make her happy, I haven't stopped believing. But enough about my sister, I was the one who was looking to start seeing people, the best place to start was here. I gave a sigh, if only that was possible, what with Lightning giving me an ultimatum in not dating anyone. I took my backpack and left, heading towards the building where my first class was located.
(Time skip)
After leaving my first class, I went ahead to the library to get the necessary books for my first assignment. My professor of European history in the sixteenth century has given us quite a long book report due next week, and I wanted to start early. I got the books and signed the form to borrow them. There were two books, quite heavy though. I had a lot to read before starting my report.
I already had something to do when I arrived home, plus whatever study material my other professors will give me. It was going to be another semester of lots of studying. I mentally sighed. With all my college work, I might not have the time to start dating. Great, Lightning would be so happy if she finds out. Please, me waiting until I'm forty to date? As if.
When I left the library I spotted someone familiar near the entrance. I smiled, spotting Hope who was having some trouble carrying some books from his backpack. Hope became a close friend of mine when we met last semester. He was also a freshman, and another victim who fell to the' freshmen welcome wagon'. We started hanging out, he was a good person and smart too.
He was the same age as me, but it looked like he turned seventeen last month while I was about to turn eighteen in two days. We got along just fine, except that he gets very nervous whenever my sister's around. That's because he noticed how scary she could be the first time he met Lightning. When he saw the look he was given, he almost freaked out. Maybe he wet his pants, he really looked scared back then.
"Hope!" I happily shouted to him.
He turned to me before he dropped all of the books, making me give a guilty look. Yeah, I think it was my fault that he dropped them all, but hey I had to get his attention. I wasn't going to sneak up on him and startle him. Hold that thought. I think I will do that later. I mentally grinned, that would be so much fun. I couldn't help it, startling people is cool.
I did the right thing to do, which was helping him pick up the books. I did it all with a smile on my face. and mentally sweat dropping. It looked like he was busier than me with college work. I think he studies more than me, probably until his eye lashes burn. He did have a score higher than mine last semester, he was probably the smartest freshman this year.
"Sorry about that." I respectively apologized, I know if something is my fault I apologize.
"It's okay Serah. I am holding a lot of books, my pack is full so I have to carry them. This was bound to happen." He smiled, assuring me it wasn't necessary to apologize, but I still thought I should.
"I don't mind helping you carry some of them." If there was one thing I was good at, it was being a polite, kind person.
"Really? You would?" He sounded surprised. I really didn't know why, of course I would help him.
"Sure, I don't have a problem."
"Oh thank you Serah. Carrying all of these books are a pain. They're as heavy as a cow, well not as heavy as an actual cow, but come on. My hands are so tired."
"There we go." I took some of the heavy load from him, and I could see that he was relieved to have some of them off.
"Thank you."
"Is this, the bible?" I spotted a big fat book, I could swear it was really the holy book.
"No it's not, but close. It's an algebra book" He smiled.
"I was close." I gave a laugh, Hope can be funny sometimes.
Then again, Hope is probably the idea of the perfect candidate for boyfriend material. I mean he's smart, he can be funny, he's kind, and he doesn't look like he's the kind of boy who would have a relationship just for the sex. Those are enough good qualities for me, plus he was good looking. He had nice silver hair, and a pair of pretty green eyes.
There were only two problems with adding him to my list of future boyfriends. One being that I already saw him as my best friend. I only like him for that, no feelings going beyond friendship there. And the second, well, with Lightning having me on a restriction leash from having a boyfriend, I really didn't want to risk his safety. I just know she will kill him if he does becomes my boyfriend.
"Don't tell me all of these books are part of your classes." I checked some of the titles, and most were about technology. He did tell me that he was studying computer programming.
"They're not actually. Thank goodness for that. I just borrowed them from the library." He gave a sigh of relief. Yeah, I would be relieved too if those books weren't part of my classes.
"You're going to give them back?" It made sense on why he came here.
"Yeah, I feel much better now that I am. You don't mind helping me bring them inside?"
"Sure ,I'll help I don't mind."
"Thanks Serah, it means a lot to me. It would be hard to carry all of them on my own. And I have to bring them to the second floor. I would have a hard time taking the stairs while carrying all of them."
(Time skip)
After we returned Hope's books we left the library, heading to another area before our next class started. We started talking about different things, first college things, the classes we take and about our bachelor degrees. Second we talked about the freshmen welcome wagon, not a nice topic to talk about, but we started laughing eventually. It was humiliating for us, but when it passed you will realize it was funny, so we enjoyed ourselves with a nice laugh.
We also talked about a way to get back at those students, but obviously we were just kidding. We were too goody goody to go through with such a thing. Among other things we were enjoying our free time. We went to the student centre, it was the one place where students gather the most in the university.
We went to the cafeteria feeling like grabbing a bite. I just ordered some rice balls while Hope ordered sushi. I thought it was weird at least for me, I wasn't fond of the dish. At this hour there were quite a crowd since it was lunch time, but we were able to get a seat at one of the tables. We were enjoying the food, but I got a little worried, hoping that Lightning didn't come here unexpectedly.
I knew she was supposed to be taking another class then, but I couldn't help but get worried. If she saw us like this she might think we were on a 'date', and that worried me about Hope's safety. He's my best friend, and the last thing I want is for her to kill him. I'm pretty sure he felt the same way, since the last time he saw her, he left in a heartbeat.
"Ease up Hope. Don't worry, I'm sure sis won't come here."
"She won't? That's a relief." He removed some sweat that formed on his forehead from getting nervous.
"Yeah…." My eyes softened a bit.
"Serah, don't take it personally I don't hate your sister or anything I'm just-"
"Scared of her, I know I've seen you running from her." I smirked.
"I'm sorry Serah. I don't mean to think that way of her." My expression seemed to have hurt him.
"It's okay Hope, I don't blame you for feeling like that about my sister. She always leaves that impression whenever I'm with a guy."
"She's only trying to look after you, she worries about you."
I took a bite of my rice ball, giving a nod.
" I know, but I'm no longer a kid. I'll be eighteen soon, and she has to understand that I don't need to be watched over like a puppy."
"Then you need to talk to her."
I paused my eating, Hope has finally brought the big question.
"I know that too. But I don't seem to have the courage to go through with it."
"You're afraid of talking to her, why?" He took a small bite from his sushi.
"Because-I 'm aware if I tell her that I don't need to be watched over by her anymore, that I might end up hurting her feelings. The only reason she's so over protective of me is because of what happened to our parents. I'm the only family she has left."
"Oh." He lowered his head a little, I did tell him what happened to mom and dad, since we became good friends.
"The last thing I want is to hurt her. I can't do that to my own sister, she's been taking care of me and watching over me for a long time."
"Sounds like you're in a tight pinch."
"Tell me about it, I want to be more independent, start seeing people without Lightning being there freaking out about it. But at the same time, I don't want to tell her 'go away and stop butting in my life even if you're my sister'. It will destroy her, it will destroy me too."
"You will have to find a way to tell her so that you don't hurt her feelings. You just have to find the right words."
"Hmm…the right words that won't be easy, to transform what I just said into cute little words that clearly had a hidden message. I'm way out of my league to do that."
"Wish I could help you, too bad I'm an only child. But I always wanted to have a brother or a sister, so I kind of envy you."
"You envy me for not having a sister like Lightning? You're pretty much scare of her."
"You're exaggerating, I'm not that scared of-"
"Oh hi sis, how are you!" I happily waved in the distance.
"What,where?" He turned behind him, freaking out but didn't see my sister.
I laughed, obviously I was lying, to play a joke on him.
"You're not that scared of her? Yeah righty, your face says it all."
"Serah that wasn't funny!" He was still nervous, only now he was a bit upset of the rude joke I played on him.
"Just kidding, Lightning is taking another class I will meet up with her later. So you're safe, for now" I gave a small grin.
"Don't even joke about that. The last time she thought we were seeing each other, the look in her eyes… I swear they looked like sharp knifes that could stab me at any moment."
"I am sorry you have to put up with Lightning. But don't worry, as long as I'm here she won't hurt you, that's a promise."
"Sheesh that makes me feel a lot better, thanks." I could tell that he was being sarcastic.
We resumed our eating, not having another conversation. It won't be long before our free time ended and we would have to get back to our next class. As I finished one of my remaining rice balls, my eyes turned to the front of the cafeteria. I noticed two people were walking towards our table. I was certain when they were getting closer to us, both seemed to be cheery.
Both were female, one of them was very tall, probably taller than my sister. She had long wavy dark brown hair reaching to her back, bronze skin, with dark piercing green eyes. She was wearing a black iron maiden t-shirt, which I knew Lightning would fall in love with if she sees it. Long black jeans with black leather boots, yep she was dressed all in black.
I did notice the different hair designs, some of her hair was in small braids, and her earrings were purple colored claw shapes. She also seemed like she was around my sister's age. The second woman seemed to be around my age, or probably a little older with bright red hair tied back in curled pig tails, emerald green eyes, wearing a pink blouse with short sleeves, a light yellow skirt and white sandals.
I had a feeling that they were good people. Well, with the big smile the red head girl had on her fac,e I could tell she was the cheery type. Hope still hasn't noticed them because he was still focused in eating his sushi. I knew they wanted to talk to us as soon as they got closer to our table.
"Hey!" Said the red head, I was right she was the cheery type.
"Oh, hi." I politely replied.
I saw Hope pausing in his meal and smirked when I saw him blushing, slightly staring at the red head. Yeah, that was the sign that he likes her, which made me happy to see him finally liking someone. It would be nice if they got to know each other,and who knows, maybe they will get together.
I like it when people find that special someone, it makes me happy to see other people finding happiness. I kept my smirk, seeing him getting nervous and embarrassed staring at the cheery red head. It was so tempting to tease him, but I chose not to. Then again, maybe I will later.
"What can I help you with?"
"I hope you can help us mate. We're a bit lost here." Replied the tall woman.
"I can help you with that." I held out my hand ready to introduce myself.
"I'm Serah Farron, freshman in my second semester and this blushing boy next to me is Hope Estheim."
"Serah!" He was obviously embarrassed and his face got worse.
"Don't blame him, it's not the first time we have captivated boys with our good looks." The tall woman gave a small grin.
"Hi Serah, my name is Vanille Dia and this is my friend Fang Yun!"
"Please to meet you mate." Said Fang shaking my hand.
"Please to meet you guys too, I'm always happy to meet more people." I smiled turning to Hope who was still the same.
"Um…yeah pleased to meet you."
"You can talk after all." Fang was smirking.
"Nice to meet you Hope!" Vanille shook his hand making him blush even more.
"She touched my hand…."
"Is it alright for him to have his whole face red like that?" Vanille got a little worried.
"Nah that's perfectly normal, it means he's very happy to see you." I gave a small laugh while Fang laughed at my comment.
"I knew coming to this university was the right thing to do. If I get to meet more people like you Serah,then I will truly enjoy my first stay in Japan."
"How about you take a seat?" I smiled at our new friends.
"No problem." Fang got seated next to me.
"You don't mind if I sit next to you Hope?" smiled Vanille.
"Of course not, go ahead!" He was still blushing.
"Thanks!" I rolled my eyes as the cheery red head got seated next to my close friend.
"You guys said you were a little lost, you're looking for directions?" I said.
"You can say that, Vanille and I aren't from around here. We're foreign college students',all the way from the land down under."
"Oh, you guys are from Australia." I was happy to have made friends with people from another country, but then again I should have known because of their accent.
"Sydney, to be exact." replied Vanille revealing that they were from the Australian capital.
"We came to this country to finish our degrees. Tokyo University has all the classes we need to take to finish our bachelor degree."
"The problem is we don't know much about this university, we've gotten lost a couple of times." said Vanille.
"I guess I can be of some help. I still have some time before my next class starts, what about you Hope?"
"Same here." He smiled, staring at Vanille, and I wasn't surprised he agreed to come.
"Okay, I'll be your tour guide. I may be a freshman but I do know my way around campus."
"Hey, thanks a lot mate."
"We really appreciate it."
(Time skip)
After we left the cafeteria, I showed Fang and Vanille around campus. All the buildings where we take classes, and all the places to buys college materials and other things like food. It was important to show them where the classrooms where located since they will be studying there, it felt kind of exciting being a college tour guide.
Our new friends were very excited as they got to know more of the place, they looked very happy and I can tell I had made more friends. After the tour, they left to take their first classes but not before telling me they wanted to hang out with me when they were done for the day. Of course I accepted, I wasn't going to let a chance like this slip by.
Hope left for his next class and I went my own way to class too. An hour and a half later, I left the classroom sighing because I had more work to do and more studying. I had a test next week. At least the class was over. Best of all I was on my way to meet up with Lightning at the parking lot, since thankfully, I was done for the day.
Tomorrow I will start my next class schedule, which was different from the one o. Monday. That's college life for you, depending on the courses you chose. I planned on taking a break before hitting the books hard, that's why I'm going to talk to my sister into going to the restaurant where Fang and Vanille wants us to get together. I hope she agrees in going, I would also like for her to socialize with other people other than myself.
She was always a loner, and even if she went to college she didn't bother making friends. She did talk to other people but that's all she did, she has never thought of making friends. Maybe with this chance of meeting Fang and Vanille she can finally socialize and let people in, she was always very reserved of herself.
Lightning is very strict in her studies and her family I know that better than anyone. But still, she needs to have friends, I don't want to see her all alone. I was only kidding when I told her that she will end up being a single hag living with cats, but I was seriously afraid that will happen to her. She doesn't deserve that, I want her to open up more to other people, she could if she could just tried. Friends and a boyfriend, that's what Lightning needed, all the love in the world aside from family.
I arrived near the parking lot where I was supposed to meet my sister, she hasn't arrived yet. It was a bit early so I decided to wait for her before I started thinking about my new friends. I smiled remembering that during the tour I was giving them, Hope was only staring at Vanille, his eyes were glued on her. He was barely paying attention, blushing at her.
While I was giving them the big tour around campus, the he was ogling at her the whole time. Now that I think about it, I wonder if Vanille was aware that he was staring at her dreamily. I guess she can be oblivious to what's around herm I don't think she even knows that Hope likes her. Would she be surprised if she ever found out? For now I will leave things as they are before I decide to play matchmaker.
I finally saw Lightning heading my way, carrying two books while her bag was slung on her right shoulder. Her expression said that she looked tired, probably from all the classes she took. Which meant an increase in studying needed and assignments she's been given. This wasn't good, she must be filled with stress with having so much work to do, she could use a break.
I mentally smiled. This was a great reason to go to the restaurant to meet up with Fang and Vanille, she needs a break to get away from college work. All I needed to do was to convince her to go to that restaurant with me. It should be easy if she really was tired, I hope she didn't have the urge to head back home and take a rest. I didn't want to disappoint them when I already promised that I was going to be there.
"How was your day?" I asked with a smile.
"Tiring…."
"I can see that, you do look tired. The professors don't show any mercy."
"Hm…what about you?"
"Oh mine wasn't as bad as yours ,that's for sure."
"Some teachers go easy on freshmen."
"Are we going home?"
"We are…."
I saw her deactivating the car alarm, ready to get in and leave. I knew I couldn't let her go home, I would have to play it out cool and tell her about the restaurant. I just needed to sound convincing enough so that she will be fine with it and agree coming with me. I got in the car, closing the door and putting on my seat belt. By then, she had already started the car.
I was trying to relax, I knew Lightning too well and her obvious answer will be 'No, I need to study.' Coming up with the right words wasn't going to be easy. She drove off from the parking lot, leaving the university. I needed to tell her now before she took the road that lead home. I followed my instincts, and thought hard for the right words to say.
"Are you hungry sis?" I felt so stupid, I can't believe those were the words I've been thinking to say for so long.
"A little…."
"Really? Well just you know, there's this restaurant downtown called the Azuchi. I was wondering if you would want to go grab a bite there?"
"It's not a restaurant, it's a karaoke bar." She already knew of the place, and I sweat dropped for confusing it for a restaurant.
"Oh right of course, silly me, I forgot."
"Why do you want to go there all of a sudden?" There was some suspicion in her voice.
"I suddenly felt like going." I kept a big smile on my face, trying to make it very convincing.
"Why?" She gave me a quick glance.
"Why, to eat there of course."
"You're lying…."
I sighed in defeat, I was really a terrible liar
"Okay fine, I met some new friends today and they invited me to the Azuchi. I would like for both of us to go."
"Serah-"
"Please say yes, this will be the only thing I will ask of you." I might as well give her the sad puppy eyes.
She sighed, keeping her eyes on the road
"All right, but we can't stay long. You know I have to study, and so do you."
"Thanks sis." I smiled happily, at least she'll be able to meet new foreign friends.
(Time skip)
We arrived at the Azuchi karaoke but we didn't expect it to be full at this hour, especially when it was a weekday. There were so many people. I did know that the bar was very popular in the city, they offered all kinds of drinks and food. And of course the karaoke, which offer tons of different songs. I was in awe when I entered the place.
It was quite big and the environment looked very comfortable. The designs were beautiful, resembling one of those castles from ancient times during the Edo era. My eyes turned from the tables and the people, towards the karaoke stage and the machine. There was someone singing the song 'maniac' too bad he wasn't a good singer, but to me the point of singing in a karaoke is to have fun.
I turned my gaze towards Lightning and she didn't look happy at all. She was probably getting uncomfortable because of the large number of people, not to mention this wasn't her preferred place to eat. Not to mention she really needed to study for any upcoming exams and assignments. I just hope she doesn't regret her choice in coming here and decides to leave.
I didn't want that, especially when she still hasn't met my new friends. My sister was complicated to understand, she was a quiet person but if someone talked to her she will talk back. She wasn't anti-social or anything. She was very reserved, she didn't like opening up to other people, especially when she didn't know them. Unless it was someone who she trusts, like me for example.
We passed through the crowd as we made our way to the tables. I smiled when I spotted Fang and Vanille seated at one of the tables, and it was a coincidence that they had two seats available. I signaled Lightning to follow me, giving her a sign that I had found some seats.
I was crossed my fingers hoping that she would decide to stay and socialize with the two Australians. I took her hand, making sure she didn't get lost or decide to leave and lead her to the table, when they spotted me. I smiled as I got closes to the table while holding my sister's hand, and waved them hi while she blinked at the two women.
"Serah, you made it!" Vanille was obviously very happy to see me.
"And she brought someone for the ride." Fang noticed Lightning, giving her a cordial smile.
"Who are they?" She turned to me giving me disapproving look.
"Guys, I want you to meet my older sister Lightning. Sis, this is Vanille and Fang. They're from Australia, they're studying in Tokyo university."
"From Australia?" She raised an eyebrow.
"That's right, the land down under. Nice to meet you mate, Lightning is really a weird name for a woman."
"I can say the same for Fang."
"Touché mate, so true." I felt that she was getting along with them already, which was good.
"I should have known you two are sisters because of the same hair color." Vanille smiled, staring at our pink hair. Yep, pink hair is the trait of the Farron family, our mother also had the same hair color.
"What are you two waiting for? Have a seat." said Fang.
We both got seated as I took a glance at Lightning. She didn't seem to be irritated, in fact she looked like she was enjoying herself, that made me smile. Looks like making friends from another country was the key to make her socialize more with people.
I knew that we were going to have some fun today. Maybe she could finally relax and have some fun for a change. A waiter came and we ordered some drinks and food. Lightning ordered miso soup while I ordered curry. not too spicy for me.
"Nice shirt." My sister finally noticed Fang's maiden t-shirt.
"Thanks mate, up the irons."
"So you're studying at Tokyo University just like Serah?" Asked Vanille.
"I'm in my fourth year studying marketing." She replied. I smiled, I was happy she was slowly opening up to them.
"That's a great degree you picked, I'm studying psychology." Fang gave a grin while I sweat dropped a bit.
"You want to be a psychologist?" I was a bit taken back.
"Go ahead, say it."
"What do you mean?"
"That she doesn't look like she's psychologist material." Vanille gave a laugh.
Lightning gave a small chuckle
"With your clothing it's hard to tell."
"I know right, I look more like the person who needs the treatment."
We laughed, I couldn't believe that we became friends so quickly. I was even shocked when I saw my sister smiling. That's right, Lightning who rarely smiles was actually showing it. Seeing her happy makes me happy too. I just want her to have friends, maybe this is the beginning of her breaking out of her solitary shell.
"What about you Vanille?" I smiled, wanting to know what she was studying.
"I started making my bachelor degree in medicine, but then I changed my mind and decided to study computer programming."
"Same degree as Hope."I giggle mentally.
"Vanille here may not look like it, but she's quite smart when it comes to tech stuff." replied Fang.
"Hey! What do you mean I may not look like it?" She gave a pout, looking like her feelings have been hurt.
"You look more like cheerleader material."
"That's not nice Fang."
"You guys look like you're close friends." I smiled at the sight of them, they acted like they were sisters.
"You can say that mate. Vanille and I have known each other since we were kids."
"So you guys are like family?" I was still smiling, it explains a lot on why they were so close.
"Yep we're family, even if we're not blood related."
"That's good" My sister finally replied, she actually sounded happy to hear about it.
"We're always looking after each other." Said Vanille.
I was really happy to meet people who probably have the same bond I share with Lightning. They may not be related by blood but they were close like a family. They probably see each other as sisters. I know very well how that feels, that's cause I have the best older sister in the world, even if she was over protective of me.
After fifteen minutes our drinks and food arrived and we started eating. When my sister started eating,I sweat dropped because she looked like she was really hungry. And she told me she was only a' little' hungry I didn't buy it for a second. Fang and Vanille weren't hungry, they only ordered some drinks. A margarita for Vanille and some sake for Fang.
Once we were done with our meal, I noticed that there was no one using the karaoke machine. This was the chance I was looking for. Since we got here I always wanted to sign karaoke. Since there were a lot of people today, it was the perfect chance to show them that my sister had a wonderful voice.
I could imagine it now. I glanced at Lightning who was finishing her miso soup, I wasn't going to waste this chance. Fang was smoking a cigarette, which was a surprise to me. She not only smokes but drinks too, not the best example to set for other people. She was lucky that the bar allowed smoking. Vanille didn't seem to mind, it looked like she got used to seeing her childhood friend smoke and drink.
"Sis, let's sing a song?"
"No." Her reply was serious, she wasn't interested.
"Come on, it will be fun. You guys should know that Lightning sings amazingly."
"Really? How about if you show us mate?" Fang said.
"I'm not singing."
"Just one song, please." I begged, I might as well have used the sad puppy eyes.
"I'm not going to sing, Serah."
"Sounds like someone has a little stage fright." Fang grinned and Vanille giggled.
"That's not it, I don't feel like singing.'
"Let's go!" I didn't care what she said, I took her hand and led her to the stage where the karaoke machine was located.
"Serah, let go!"
"You're not singing alone, I'll sing too."
"It doesn't matter. I told you I'm not singing."
"Just one song, that's all I'm asking for."
"Serah…."
We went to the stage,I handed a microphone to Lightning ,and took another for myelf. I went to the machine and picked a song. It was 'wind beneath my wings' by Bette Miller, although it wasn't exactly the kind of music my sister likes. I saw that she was giving me an annoyed look, showing that she didn't wanted to sing this song. I ignored her and started singing when the lyrics were displayed on the screen.
I admit I have a nice voice but compared to Lightning, I was second best and she was about to show them. At first she wasn't that motivated to sing, not giving too much effort until I stared at her giving her' you can sing way better look'. She rolled her eyes. I really wanted her to sing like she usually does because she can sing much better than her current effort.
The crowd obviously didn't like our performance so far, since my sister wasn't singing for real. Fang and Vanille were in the same boat, the next thing that happened to us is the crowd starting to boo at us. Just like that, things changed when the next set of lyrics appeared in the machine. Something came over Lightning.
She changed her attitude, she didn't like the crowd's reaction so she decided to give it her best. In a second she raised voice to her regular singing voice. I smiled, she was finally singing for real. When I turned to the crowd their expressions changed in a heartbeat, her voice really changed the mood. Everyone in the crowd was in awe from hearing her voice, it was beautiful, she was always the better singer than me.
They were amazed at how good she could sing. I followed along, singing as her back up, following the lyrics on the screen. Pretty soon everyone started clapping their hands, following the rhythm of the music as my sister sang every word in perfect tone following the melody. Then, still singing, I turned my gaze towards Fang and Vanille,
Their reactions changed too, both of them had their eyes and their mouths wide open. At first they were more shocked than in awe unlike the others. I guess they were that surprised. When the song ended everyone started applauding her great performance, the cheering were mostly from the males in the crowd. We took our bow before heading back to our table and our Australian friends.
"Well, what do you think of her singing?" I smiled at them, knowing their answer.
"That was just, wow!" Vanille was the first to speak.
"I'll say, that's one hell of a voice Lightning. Ever thought of joining a rock band?"
"Never given it any thought."
"Well, we would like to have you in our band" Said Vanille smiling.
"What do you mean?" I couldn't believe what I heard.
"Not quite, we don't have a band but we've been looking for members to start one. I play the guitar and Vanille plays the bass, we could sure use a singer like you."
"I play drums!" I shouted in joy. It was true, I did take drum lessons when I was in high school.
"What a coincidence, looks like we found all the members for our band." Fang gave a grin.
"That depends if you and Serah agree to join us" said Vanille.
"Yes!" I shouted again.
"No…."
"What, sis why not…." I pouted at her answer.
"Don't have the time, we have our studies to focus on."
"I know, but think about it. If we do join a band, we might become famous and we'll gain money lots from it." I was trying hard to convince her so she would change her mind.
"That's the key Serah, 'we might become famous' .Chances are low that we'll get some quick cash."
"But then again I did quit my job at the department store, that bastard boss of mine. How in the world I will be able to gain the money to look after Serah and keep our apartment?"
"Actually, I do have a few contacts here in Tokyo that might be able to give us a gig. After that the rest will be up to us and how good we'll perform." said Fang.
"See sis, we already have some possible chances to be famous, please say yes."
"The chances are still low that we'll be able to make it big. And there's still our college work to worry about, being part of this band will get in the way of our studies."
"Not it won't, I can still study hard and be part of the band. I'm still a bookworm at heart."
"A bookworm in a rock band"I smirked mentally.
"It's okay you two, we don't want to pressure you or anything, we understand if you don't want to join." said Vanille.
"No, we do want to join, right sis?" I turned to her giving her the sad puppy eyes.
"Serah…" I could tell it was working with the expression she was giving me.
"Please…."
For as long as I could remember, the sad puppy eyes technique has always been very effective on Lightning. I could get away with anything I wanted, of course I didn't do it often but only when it was necessary. Like when I convinced her to buy me an I-pod and to buy me a Playstation 3. Okay, maybe I did kind of take advantage of it but which teenage girl wouldn't go for it, seriously.
This time it was different, I really wanted to be part of this band because well, maybe being in one was my childhood dream. Now the chance was right in front of me, and I couldn't refuse this opportunity. My sister would have to understand that, and besides if we do become famous we will earn more money than we could ever dream of. But at the same time she was right that the chances were low, still, it was worth to try.
"Sis….?"
I saw her giving a sigh of defeat
" Fine…if it means that much to you, we'll join your band." She gazed at Fang.
"Yay! Thank you sis!" I gave her a big hug while she sweat dropped.
"The things I do for my little sister."
"All right, then its settled. Welcome aboard mates." Fang smiled.
"Welcome to the band!" Vanille replied cheery.
"Only on one condition," she turned to me and I already knew what it was.
"Sure sis, anything." I gave her a big smile.
"You better keep your grades up and keep getting a high score, if you don't we quit the band." She crossed her arms.
"You got it sis, I'll get lots of A+ and B+."
"Now that we have that settled, let's get down to band business. We'll have our first meeting tomorrow at the Tokyo sports center at five 'o clock to discuss future plans and rehearsals. I will call all those contacts to see if they can give us a gig."
"We'll be there." I smiled. I was still very happy that we joined a rock band.
"Make sure you arrive on time mates. I will be quite upset if you arrive late."
"Fang, stop i .Don't try to scare them, don't listen to her she's only kidding" Vanille said.
"Great sense of humor." Lightning was obviously being sarcastic.
(Time skip: the next day)
I emerged from the shower before taking a white towel and drying my body. I was so excited I couldn't wait until I was done with college, the only thing on my mind was our first band meeting at the sports center. I wrapped the towel around me before leaving the shower, I put on some underwear as I head to my room to change and start another beautiful day.
I checked on my closet, I already chose the clothes I was wearing today. A pair of jeans with the knee section ripped, black sneakers and my favorite t-shirt which was about one of my favorite bands Dream Theater, the shirt was from their second album 'images and words', one of their best works ever. I went to put on some jewelry. Now that I was an official member of a rock band, I needed to wear the accessories of one.
I chose a dragon holding a skull with its claws as a necklace and two spikes bracelets, similar to the ones Chun Li from street fighter wears. I brushed my hair and tied it in my usual pony tail. Finally, I put on the Farron shoulder bracelet, I couldn't leave home without it. I went to look into the mirror and smiled, happy with my rock star look.
Lastly I took my back pack making a quick check that all my books were inside, I nodded in approval that everything was there. I left my room heading into the kitchen of our apartment, I was happy to see Lightning finishing making breakfast. Next to the kitchen stood the living room, the television was on showing an episode of Full Metal Alchemist Brotherhood, I chose to ignore it since I already saw it.
"There's the greatest sister in the entire world!" I went to give her a good morning hug.
"Stop sucking up to me." She sweat dropped but didn't protest when I hugged her.
"Don't be like that sis, I do care about you a lot." I kept my big happy smile.
"You're happy because you're in a band, I get it."
"That's another reason for being happy, but the best of all I get to be in a band with you." I meant it, having my older sister with me in a band was great.
I noticed the smile that formed on her lips
"Here, eat up we don't want to be late for class."
"Thanks." I happily took a plate of omelet with bacon and some toast.
I was about to grabthe bottle of ketchup as Lightning gave it to me, she already knew I like to eat my omelet with ketchup. I started eating smiling at how tasty it was, my sister's cooking was very good, it always brings a smile to my face. Of course she tells me that I cook even better, I have shown it during the times she allowed me to cook.
When she ate my cooking, she would smile and gave me a nod of approval followed by a compliment. I guess I inherited the Farron gift of cooking great food. We resumed our eating when the FMA episode was interrupted, we heard a news broadcast instead.
"We interrupt this program to bring you this special bulletin. Late last night a man was attacked and killed near the downtown district next to a bar. The cause of death seems to be an injury on the man's neck, which seems to be two small holes on his left side. The body of the man was identified as thirty year old Toru Hajime, an escaped convict from Tokyo correctional facility. He was considered extremely dangerous for various cases of first degree murders as well as rape. We will have more detailed information later."
"Serves him right, one less bastard to worry about." My sister didn't show any pity for him since he was a dangerous criminal.
"Did you hear what he said, the cause of death? The two holes on his neck?" That was the only thing that had me worried, unlike Lightning I didn't make a comment about being glad that the murderer was dead.
"What of it?" She calmly resumed her eating.
"Two small holes on his neck, doesn't that sound familiar?"
"No clue." I had to sweat drop at her answer, it was really familiar.
"Sis that kind of sounds like the same way a vampire attacks his victims. They bite the neck of people where the blood circulates more before sucking it up completely, and the victim ends up with the two holes on his neck as proof of the vampire sharp fangs. Don't' you watch any horror movies?"
"Vampire?" She paused her eating raising an eyebrow at me.
"Yeah that criminal was killed by a vampire, what other explanation can there be if he has those holes on his neck?"
"It could have been anything to cause that wound."
"Like what?" I was gladly open for any suggestions she had in mind.
"I don't know." The kind of answer I was expecting.
"Exactly, the only logical explanation is that a vampire attacked him…."
"You've been watching too many horror movies Serah. There is no such thing as vampires."
"That's what I thought until they showed that criminal, I can't believe they really exist."
"Enough, finish eating we have to get to the university."
I nodded, finishing what remained of my breakfast. I couldn't help it,I was worried about the death of the criminal. My sister was right, by all logic vampires were just creatures of pure fiction that only exist in horror movies or in books. But I was still worried remembering the broadcast, what other being could cause two holes on someone's neck aside from the so called creatures of the night?
Maybe they exist after all. I was really getting worked up over nothing, maybe there was another explanation like Lightning said. I tried to erase my thinking and focus on finishing my food, I didn't wanted to be late for class. But they were still there, the words of the broadcast kept playing in my head, I didn't understand why I was so concerned about it.
(Time skip)
We arrived at the auditorium after we were done with college. Actually, we arrived a bit early than expected. I guess I was feeling too excited to start the rehearsal with the band. Lightning rolled her eyes, but she couldn't help but feel happy because I was happy too. It took a while for me to prepare my drum kit. It was a classic Yamaha with a foot pedal but I always dreamed of having Mike Portnoy's drum kit, it was endless.
My sister was dressed similarly, she was wearing a black Disturbed shirt with the cover of their last album Asylum, and black jeans with black leather boots. Even if I had to use the sad puppy eyes to convince her, I kind of felt like she was actually going to enjoy this experience, maybe I was imagining it.
I decided to do a little warm up before the others arrived and started playing. Lightning stood watching me I noticed the smile on her lips, I got the impression that she was proud of me for becoming such a good drummer. I guess she would be happy for me, she did support me when I told her I wanted to take drum lessons.
Soon Fang and Vanille arrived, carrying two suitcases with some speakers and other devices, obviously their instruments. Both stopped as they saw me doing my warm up. They were a bit impressed with my performance, they also came dressed as rock stars.
Fang was wearing a black leather jacket with a white Judas Priest t-shirt, torn jeans with snake skin boots and black leather gloves. Vanille was wearing a dark blue blouse with the band name Guns 'n Roses, a black silk skirt with fish net stockings and fish net gloves while her nails were painted black. She looked a bit gothic rather than a regular rock star, but hey it was her own style and she still fitted with the band.
"My, you guys are early." Fang gave a smirk, she did like punctuality.
"My sister was too eager to start." Was Lightning's reply.
"Oh, you guys are finally here!" I smiled seeing that they arrived, we could finally begin.
"Serah, since your sister already proved to us how good she is when singing,why don't you show us what you can REALLY do. " Fang and Vanille started preparing their equipment.
"All right, make sure you listen well."
"She won't disappoint you." Lightning told Fang, she was that confident in me.
I nodded even if they were preparing their instruments and audio equipment they would be listening, and that was the most important thing. I suddenly started getting nervous, I hated it when it happens, my stomach was having butterflies. I completely dismissed the feeling, being nervous was only natural since the two people who formed the band were present, would be judging if I was good enough to be their official drummer.
I decided to pick one of the solos from Neil Peart, wishing I could play as wickedly as he does. Rush's Neil Peart and Dream Theater's Mike Portnoy were my main influences, they inspired me to learn to play drums. I stood as Lightning nodded to me,she stood behind supporting me, to make sure I impress our new friends.
Then it hit me, I suddenly realized what to do. I started playing, focusing on a solo mixed with both Neil's and Mike's skills, which wasn't going to be easy. I just followed the rhythm, and prayed that I didn't send one of my drum sticks flying. It happened to me before. I kept my eyes on the drums, letting the inspiration flow through me, trying hard to make a very good solo.
I was too concentrated in playing, I didn't not realize how long I was playing. I finally stopped because I was too exhausted, I must have played for quite a while, I didn't keep track of time. When I turned to everyone I saw that Fang and Vanille had the same expressions when they heard Lightning sing, which only meant that I must have done a good job.
"So how did I do?" I blushed in embarrassment.
"I'm speechless." Vanille replied.
"Damn, that's what I call kicking ass on drums. Looks like I found my sister and best friend. Lightning you don't mind if I steal Serah from you?"
My sister rolled her eyes
"Go get your own sister Fang."
"Hey what about me Fang, I thought I was your best friend and sister?" Vanille obviously felt hurt.
"You can go with Lightning."
"Meanie!" She childishly stuck her tongue at her.
"We found our permanent singer and drummer all in one go, not too shabby huh?" Fang ignored Vanille's pout.
"Where do we start?" Lightning was ready for instruction as was I.
"First, it would be best if we tell you about the band. For starters we don't have any original material written so far."
"You mean you have no songs written?" I understood if they were just starting the band project.
"That's pretty much it, we started as soon as we arrived in this country, hope you don't mind." said Fang.
"It's okay, but what songs are we going to be playing?"
"Cover songs!" Vanille said in her usual cheery mood.
"Cover songs?" Lightning didn't sound surprise.
"For now, we'll be a cover band, we have to start somewhere before making it big. Even the most famous bands today had their big downs before they got famous."
"I don't have a problem with that." I was calm but happy, I really liked the idea of playing cover songs from bands that I like.
"Same here I guess." replied my sister, although I could hear some doubt in her voice. She still wasn't one hundred percent sure that this was going to work.
"All right, let's start with the list of some songs we'll be performing before we start rehearsal, this will take a while." said Fang.
"No problem." I replied while Lightning gave a nod.
"Then let's get started!" said Vanille.
And so we began our first day as an official band. Fang gave us a list of songs we'll be performing before we started searching for a manager who will help us find some gigs. At first we had some trouble following the rhythm,but we caught up nicely. Lightning and I finally saw Fang and Vanille playing their instruments. Fang was awesome playing her Fender guitar.
Her riffs were smooth, and the way she shreds was truly great, she really talent. Vanille was also playing her electric bass guitar, she was able to perfectly match the rhythm between the guitar and my drumming. Add in Lightning's singing and we were what might become an amazing cover band in then future. We played what was on Fang's list for three hours until we got it right.
I couldn't believe it that in the two days that I knew Fang and Vanille, we would become such good friends. And it was more shocking that my sister got along so well with them. I was happy that she finally had friends to talk to, we were both happier than we've ever been. The idea of us being part of a rock band has really gotten us closer than ever, I wouldn't want it any other way.
Somehow I started seeing Fang and Vanille as an addition to our family, even though Lightning wouldn't agree, friends yes, but not family material. With them I felt like things were going to get interesting and better, our band might become quite popular.
(Time skip: one month later)
I knew it wasn't going to be easy to find us a manager, but I never imagined it would be this hard. For a whole month we've been playing in different places where people gathered most in order to get some attention, yet we had no luck. The contacts Fang told us turned down the few demos we recorded. I was beginning to think that our band wasn't going to become famous, that it was destined to fail.
I was never the kind of person to give up, I still tried and hoped we could get our big chance, or maybe our fifteen minutes of fame. But that never happened so I eventually focused more on my college studies just like Lightning, she wasn't surprised that our band wasn't hitting it big.
I kept my promise to my sister I was still getting good grades and kept a high score as she does. But even if we weren't focusing on the band it didn't meant that we stopped seeing Fang and Vanille, it was the opposite. I was really happy that Lightning slowly started opening up to them.
It was the first time she has removed herself from her shell to people aside from me. Maybe we could get that family that we lost when mom and dad passed away, just maybe.
But things weren't so well and it wasn't my friends, or my family, or the band's business. It was about that broadcast that I saw a month ago concerning the criminal that was killed with two holes on his neck. Not too long ago I saw another broadcast concerning the same person, there was an incident at the Tokyo morgue saying that there was murder of another person with holes on his neck.
The thing that shocked me the most was that the body of that criminal was gone, I was really worried about this whole thing. The obvious choice would be that someone took his body, but I had a feeling that wasn't it. I still believe that convict must be a vampire, I know it sounds crazy but it was the only explanation.
Lightning still didn't believe me, she kept saying that I watched too many horror movies. I just don't understand what other reason would there be for them to have holes on their necks. It sounded crazy but I thought that criminal may have escaped on his own. According to the movies, the vampire that attacks someone can turn the victim into a vampire.
Maybe he was out there, a couple of days after the news of the morgue. there was another broadcast of recent murders going on in the city. People were getting killed with the same holes in their necks and it happened during the night. After watching it I almost freaked out, vampires can only come out at night and more people were getting killed in the same manner. I knew this wasn't just a coincidence.
I didn't care what my sister said, after watching all those broadcasts I knew this wasn't some crazy story. Somehow vampires do exist and it's not just some work of fiction that comes from books and movies. I knew telling Lightning would be a waste of time since she still thought it was a coincidence of the murders that were happening lately. I wanted to believe that it was all a bad dream and none of this happened, it was good to dream but I wasn't a lunatic to do that. I will have to resume my life and hope that it ends. Another nice dream, I was pretty sure the murders weren't going to end. I wasn't thinking negatively so I did the obvious thing, I ignored it.
(Scene change)
(Location: auditorium city district)
We were done with another rehearsal session in the evening, we sound better every time we rehearse. I guess practice makes perfect. Even if we weren't having any luck becoming popular, it wasn't so bad because we had each other. I would choose friendship over popularity any day. I started packing my new drum kit, it was a birthday gift from my sister. I really liked it, the sound it produced was better than my old one.
We had time to spare so I decided to do some quick studying before heading back home, sis got me her keys since I left my books in her car. I headed to her car and deactivated the alarm, but I had no idea what was in store for me. I started to believe there was a reason why I saw all those broadcast concerning the murders, I had no idea why until it was too late.
I opened the driver door and reached for a couple of my books, closing the door after. I never got the chance to activate the alarm again. I felt a hand covering my mouth making me gasp, I was truly scared. I was stuck in a strong grip, someone turned me around and I saw who is was.
I was shocked when I saw the convict, Toru Hajime who was supposedly dead, whose body disappeared from the morgue. Now I knew why. He escaped on his own, he was very much alive but staring at his face I was horrified. If he wasn't covering my mouth I would have screamed in pure horror. He wasn't human, his eyes were golden yellow and he had sharp fangs, along with sharp claws. I knew exactly what he was, and he was also responsible for all those deaths where the victims had holes in their necks after he escaped.
I was right all along, he was a vampire. I tried to break free, but it was impossible. His strength was not human, I couldn't free my mouth from his hand to tell Lightning that I was in danger. Soon tears started forming, I couldn't believe it. This was it, I was going to die right there, I didn't want that. To die and leave my sister alone, it was too painful, she would be destroyed forever.
It was bad enough that we lost our parents, now she was about to lose me. It was hurting me too, I could imagine her broken face when she found out. I shook my head, trying to use all my strength to break free from his grip. He was grinning so evilly at me, his face made my stomach turn. He stood holding me like he enjoyed the thrill of having his victims caught like this, in their last moments.
"Well aren't I the lucky one. I found a pretty one tonight, the others I fed on weren't as cute as you."
"Oh god, vampires do exist….."my mind went blank for a moment.
"You're a beauty, your blood must taste exquisite. I am longing for it, I can taste it just by looking at you." he licked my cheek. I felt disgusted, I wanted to throw up.
"No, please don't let it end here…Lightning, sis, please help!"my tears started falling.
"Maybe I won't kill you, I might have some fun if I keep you around. I could use the company, I'll make you my slave" he licked his lips, I didn't like the way he said that, he was planning on turning me into a vampire just like him.
That would be a nightmare come true, me living as a vampire slave to this mad man. No, I'd rather die. I struggled desperately, using all my strength but it was no use. I couldn't escape, my act only made him grin even more. I did the first thing that came to my mind, and kicked him between his legs, even if he was a vampire now he was still a man none the less.
It worked as he groaned in pain, getting on his knees but my act only made him angry. He was glaring at me with intent to kill. But I wasn't going to give him the chance.
"Lightning help me!" I shouted at the top of my lungs.
The vampire was about to attack me, he never saw it coming. I knew why my sister chose to change her name to Lightning, because she was so fast. I realized it when she came from out of nowhere and kicked Toru square in the face, sending him flying as he hit the ground hard.
Sure, the vampire was pissed, and he was glaring at me with so much hatred and murder was written in his eyes. But it was nothing, compared to the glare my sister was giving him. Lightning quickly turned to me, seeing that I was in tears only made her angrier. That vampire was going to get it, and I wasn't going to feel sorry for him.
"You okay?" the concern was very clear in her voice.
"I'm okay now, that's the criminal was supposed to be dead. You see? He's a vampire, I told you they exist!" I pointed to him, making sure she takes a long look at him.
Lightning turned back to Toru who got up. Her eyes widened slightly as she looked at his sharp fangs, the inhuman color of his eyes, followed by his claws. It was very clear that he wasn't a human and it wasn't someone's idea of a sick joke. Everything about him was real, and she was finally gazing at a real live vampire.
I knew she was probably shocked, but I might be wrong, she quickly glared at him as if he wasn't really a blood sucker. The vampire on the other hand was grinning as he stared at us hungrily.
"Perfect, more food to feed on…."
"You attacked my sister, I'll kill you." I saw the seriousness in her eyes, she really meant it.
Toru laughed in amusement as he charged at my sister, using his claws to shred her to pieces. Lightning only glared at him, blocking his attack and countered with a punch, leaving him wide open. She punched him straight in his face, a punch that landed on his nose eventually breaking it, followed by a kick to his mid-section. The vampire fell on the ground, in agonizing pain because of the good beating she gave him.
But my sister had just begun to warm up. She was a bit shocked seeing him getting up and this time he was truly pissed off, I'm sure that by now he only intended in feeding on us and killing us. At least I won't have to worry about being his little slave.
"What the-"
"Sis you can't kill him that way!"
"What's going on?"
I smiled when Fang and Vanille emerged from the entrance of the auditorium running towards us. They looked frantic when they saw the situation before them, even more when they took a closer look at the criminal. Vanille gasped seeing his face, I bet she already knew what he was, as for Fang, she only glared at him with a lot of anger.
It was strange for me, she didn't looked startled like Vanille, she wasn't showing any fear just like Lightning. By now I focused on them, I didn't want any of them to get hurt or killed by this thing, my sister was first but she could take care of herself. I didn't know much about them, the last thing I wanted was for them to get hurt trying to protect me.
"Fang….?" Vanille spoke, but there wasn't any fear in her voice.
"Yeah, I hear you." she muttered but I didn't hear her.
"Guys get back, that guy is a vampire!" I shouted, wanting to warn them of this danger.
"More meals keeps approaching me, I am truly lucky." Toru licked his lips.
Lightning charged at him but he countered, seeing her coming, he quickly grabbed her by her throat. She couldn't breathe, she was struggling desperately to break free from him, but his strong grip was preventing her from doing so. I ran to help but he shoved me back, I landed on the ground, hurt from the strength of his push.
I was scared out of my mind, that thing had my sister at his mercy and he had no intention in letting her go, at least until he killed her. I screamed, worried sick, fearing that I would lose her to that monster. But just like that, it ended.
Toru stopped choking her and let her go. I saw that he had been stabbed in the heart from behind, by something obviously sharp. He turned into dust, proof that he had been killed.
I ran and knelt next to Lightningm checking if she was all right. And she was, thank goodness, she was trying to catch her breath from the choke hold the vampire had on her. I turned to the one that killed Toru, Fang stood there holding a long hunting knife. Vanille came to me, checking on both of us. I was shocked because I never saw her getting behind him, which lead me to think that she was probably fast, just like my sister.
"Gotta love this thing, never leave home without it." she sheathed the weapon on her back.
"You okay Lightning?" Vanille said, she was concerned for both of us.
"Sis….?"
"What the hell is going on?" Lightning got up, she was rubbing her throat still feeling Toru's strong grip.
"Easy mate, calm down. Just lie down and relax." said Fang.
"What the hell was that thing?" she turned to all of us, looking angry because she really didn't understand what just happened.
"That? I think it was a vampire." Fang replied, her tone showing that it should have been obvious.
"Vampire?" she chuckled sarcastically, still not believing that she actually fought one.
"Relax Lightning, it's over now." said Vanille.
"What did you do? How did you kill him?"
"I stabbed his heart, that's the only way to kill a vampire."
"Stabbed his heart?" she touched her forehead. Yeah, she looked like she lost her grip on reality.
"Yeah,don't you watch horror movies?"
"I asked her the same question, and no, she doesn't watch them." I gave a small smile, feeling relieved that it was over.
"That explains it." she gave a smirk.
"Fang?" my sister turned to her this time. She was serious, too serious if I might add.
"Feeling better now?" she smiled. I noticed she didn't even look half freaked out.
"You have a lot of explaining to do."
"What do you mean?" I didn't know why she sounded suspicious of Fang.
"Explain about what?" she failed to hide her nervous tone.
"About that thing that almost choked me to death and tried to kill Serah. I find it a little too convenient that you were able to know where to strike from just watching horror movies."
"Sis, I knew about the vampire's weak spot by watching those movies."
"Be quiet Serah."
"What are you saying?"
"I'm saying that you better tell me what is going on, or else."
"Or else what….?" I can't believe Fang dared to ask the question.
"If you and Vanille impose any kind of threat that might risk Serah's safety, then this will be the end. We'll quit your band and you can say goodbye to our friendship." her tone was cold, she was upset but serious. I knew she was planning to do just that.
"Sis…." I whispered, not wanting this to happen I care about both of them a lot.
"Lightning, it's all right we don't pose any threat. We're on your side!" cried Vanille.
"Then explain…."
"I-"
"It's all right Vanille, she's serious about this and there's no escaping it. All right mate, I'll tell you everything you want to know about Mr. Bloodsucker just now, and any other questions that are probably popping into your head right now."
"Fair enough…."
"First let's go somewhere else."
To be continued
There another chapter done please keep in mind that this is still a flashback chapter and so will be the upcoming chapters. I'm just explaining how everything started I also wanted them to be in a rock band in the first place at least Lightning and Fang already have the looks like they are from a band. Please review if you like the story and I will see you all next time farewell.
On another note keep a close watch for the next chapter of "Legend of the Defiers" this week that will be all.
Next time: overture past revisited III: the coming curse
