Well... not exactly off of my hiatus since I'm now settling into college, but I did finally manage to type up arc 3. BOY, did this take a long time. 0.0 And it's definitely the longest chapter I've written for a fanfiction EVER. 20 pages in Word, 50 front and back in my notebook, and [OVER 9000!] *had to do it* words, not counting these dialogue parts! It took me about a week to type it all up.
Oh, and thank you all who gave your condolences... I'd rather not talk about just what happened to my mom. It's unexpected, yet to be expected in my eyes given another event that happened two years ago with her that traumatized the hell out of me-...Anyways, back on topic. Since this is supposed to be a dramatic, yet happy story even though it's never going to be all happy when I write it, some of the most drama happens here and in another arc I'm going to create.
By the way, Himeko and I have formed a full-blown love/hate relationship now via this arc. 0.0 She's my creation... but she's... wow... Just wow... She reminds me of the prisses that used to pick on me in middle school, plain to say.
Anyways, after three weeks... I give you the Fallen Angel arc, inspired by the song Fallen Angel from the anime Panty and Stocking with Garterbelt, which I have NOT seen, so it is inspired by the fandubbing group VocaLight. ^_^ Whom I love dearly. They have pretty great songs, I recommend them highly! I have also gone and edited a video to the song Fallen Angel by them. Same username on YouTube, and if you find the video by VocaLight, you'll likely find my video under the responses! *Shot for promotion*
x.x Enjoy...
-Fallen Angel Arc—
During dinner, round three occurred between Himeko and Amu, but this time around, Kukai played the protector role.
"She's REALLY getting on my nerves; it's high time she got what she deserved!" Then she felt hands on her shoulders and glanced up. As anticipated, there was Ikuto.
"Yo~" She blinked a few times, blushing lightly. "I got you off the hook today. Piano room after dinner, got it?" Then he walked away.
"Hinamori, you could've said something to him THEN!" Kukai whispered into the girl's ear. Amu just shrugged, fidgeting a bit in her seat.
"I don't get that. You never really have problems talking to guys, and then this new guy comes jumping into your life, and you suddenly freak out." Nagihiko stated, picking at his soba noodles.
"B-Because he's a huge pervert!" Amu sputtered.
"What, Ikuto? Nah, he's not a pervert at all. He only does that to girls he's interested in, and even then, he hardly ever tries." Kukai replied. "He must see through your cool and collected exterior."
"…He won't be able to see through ALL of me though…"
After dinner, Ikuto approached Amu without a word and then turned to leave, expecting her to follow. Amu didn't want to, but something tugged at her and urged her to follow after him. She kept her distance as they went up the stairs to the fourth floor, staring at his large back. He was fairly tall at nearly six feet, but she was still tall enough to reach up and touch his shoulder without stretching… if she had ever wanted to.
"Amu… I want you to participate with me in this song for the Fall Breakthrough." Ikuto stated once the two were alone in the piano room.
"W-What? But I can't sing!"
"YES, you can. You have a beautiful voice; you're just being too damn stubborn to admit that you do."
"I can't… Please don't force me…" He took her by the hand as soon as she had turned to leave. And she didn't pull away, though she had flinched.
"…Okay, I really didn't want it to come to this, but… I'll make you a deal, Amu. Sing part of this song with me right now, while it's just the two of us in this room. If you still feel like singing is nothing but a waste of time, then I won't bother you about it anymore. I swear."
"…You won't bother me anymore?"
"I swear." He repeated in all seriousness.
Amu wouldn't have minded that deal. He had been trying to talk to her a lot more than she had wanted, and so long as he had been doing that, Himeko Toboe would force her to her early end. Nadeshiko was already going to be spending a lot of time with her, and Amu would eventually lose even her closest friend to the evil within that girl… and here Ikuto was, offering to leave her alone if she sang for him just once.
Amu sighed after some time. "…Okay. Show me the lyrics."
"Okay." Ikuto pulled out a loose sheet of paper from his composition notebook, handing it to her.
Amu scanned the sheet a few times. All of the lyrics were in English. She knew English… but not too much, as she had only gone through one year of high school, where learning it was crucial.
"'Fallen Angel'?"
"It took me a bit of time to put it all together and even more time to have it reviewed, but I think the arrangement deems pretty appropriate."
He sat down at the piano in the center of the room and began to play the opening portion of the melody as though it had been memorized. Amu was a bit stunned.
"You can play piano too?"
"Piano, violin and viola, all three instruments to dire perfection... Why do you think that Seiyo considers me to be a musical prodigy?" {A/N: Fun fact. As I was writing this part, I also happened to pick back up on reading Shugo Chara a fourth time, and originally, I only wanted Ikuto to play violin and piano. 0.0 And when I read in the manga on June 16th that he did both PLUS viola, I just laughed and went "Ikuto, you are now a pianist in my story", which was even better since in The Distance Between Us, he also teaches Sho to play viola, and I had no idea then. By the way, I recommend actually listening to "Fallen Angel" as you read the lyrics to get the feel for the mood.}
He began playing a slightly lower note on the piano before breathing out. Amu listened carefully as he began taming the unfamiliar tune. Then, he began singing.
Heaven
Please sing for me
A song of life
Heaven
Take me into your stars
There's no place here for me
To hide my cries
Night and day
I'm missing you
Amu looked to the composition paper before gathering herself and singing along.
I know I'm here for the magic
All your stars guiding me
Through and through
Oh, why this loneliness feels like forever
And ever
I gotta be, I gotta be
In your arms, baby
Amu froze when she heard a voice from behind just as she got to the final word in her verse.
You're so close
So close
Amu looked back and saw Nagihiko standing in the doorway, smiling at her the entire time.
"Nagihiko…?"
And it's you that I believe in
She continued singing in tune with Ikuto.
I believe in
So close
Nagihiko took a solo.
But far away
So far I can't touch
All three went in tune.
I'll hold on
Then Amu's voice grew a bit louder as she jumped into the next part—so much stronger that it nearly overpowered Ikuto's voice, which pleased him.
'Cause it's you I love so dearly
Amu took her own solo.
When the rain, the storm
And all is done
Caress me with your sweet lullaby
Ikuto finished off the tune and then looked to Amu with a smile. "See that? You CAN do it. You just need to have a little faith in yourself. And with us there to help you, I'm sure that one day, you'll become an amazing singer."
Amu ignored him and continued to read on with the lyrics. "…There's another role here… who's taking that?"
"Utau Hoshina. I believe you've met her once before." Ikuto stated.
"…Utau…" Amu remembered her well. She was friends with Himeko—she had helped to perform with her. Amu knew Utau, and she was afraid of her. Her voice was much more powerful than hers could ever be.
"Amu, you could be a great addition to our group. Please, can you join us?" Nagihiko asked, smile still wide on his face.
"…I-I'm sorry…" Then she left the piano room and slid down into a nearby corner. She glanced at the composition still in her grasp and held it close.
The first composition Ikuto wanted her to help with… and it hit home as hard as it could ever be. The lyrics he wrote spoke to her—almost as if they were meant for her.
"Amu?" Amu glanced up at the sound of her name and saw Nadeshiko. She was clothed in a long white dress, and her violet ponytail was curled, flowing down her left shoulder, held together by a purple Nadeshiko flower barrette. Plain to say, she looked stunning.
"N-Nadeshiko… you look so pretty…"
She giggled. "You like it? We had a late practice set up, and Himeko said I should be a bit girlier than usual to prepare for the Fall Breakthrough. Did you decide on whether or not you were going to participate?"
"…I don't know…" Nadeshiko leaned in a bit closer to her.
"Amu, I think you should. It'll help your confidence, and your singing is already so cute and sweet—you'd light up the stage."
"…Well, Ikuto asked me to help him out with his piece…"
Ï think Nagihiko said he'd be helping him. And Utau is too. That'd be a great piece! You all have such different ranges!"
Amu managed to smile. "Okay. I guess I can talk to him about it."
"Great! Well, I need to go, I still have to practice. See you later!" She winked at the girl and then ran off. Amu held the composition to her chest, lightly blushing.
"Thank you, Nadeshiko…"
Amu entered the piano room again minutes later to find Ikuto and Nagihiko finally beginning to clean up the room a little more.
"…I want to join." Nagihiko and Ikuto grinned, and almost instantly Nagihiko raced up and locked her in a hug.
"AMU!" She giggled.
"What made you change your mind?"
"Nadeshiko." Amu replied.
"…Who's Nadeshiko?"
"My older twin sister," Nagihiko stated. "She's Amu's best friend."
"Oh. Then she must be beautiful." Ikuto's tone was smooth, held a bit of sarcasm, and still seemed honest all at the same time. Yet Amu still smiled at the mention of her most precious friend. It was strange…
Ikuto didn't have any idea why… but he longed to have that smile for himself.
Then the door flew open. "Ikuto, sorry I'm late, I-" Then she noticed Amu and her eyes darkened. "…Why is SHE here?!"
"Amu is performing with us." Ikuto stated.
"She doesn't know enough about vocal music to work with us! She shouldn't even BE at Seiyo!"
"Oh boy…" Nagihiko mumbled.
"I-I'm sorry, I don't even know what I was thinking when I decided to agree…" Amu started to leave until Ikuto grabbed her by the arm. She flinched—his touch was warm on the spot.
"But she's here, Utau. Even if her voice isn't as developed as yours is… she has the ability and the makings to sing."
"Oh? Well, let's hear it. Let's hear this 'lovely' voice of hers that I've heard so much about." Utau looked to Amu, who in turn froze up again. Nagihiko put his hands on her shoulders and she eased up a bit.
"Don't worry. You can do this." He had taken on Nadeshiko's voice, which only eased her more. He leaned in closer, whispering in her ear. "I believe in you."
Amu sang the first song that came to mind, which was 'Nameless Story'. After she began, Ikuto was instantly entranced, listening carefully to each note that flowed out like a stream. Utau, admittedly, was a bit stunned by his actions as well as Amu's pitch… but she wasn't impressed.
"…Satisfied?" Amu managed to crack a smile.
"You have good pitch, but no power. And don't count your blessings when being criticized by someone at a much higher level than your own."
"I want to work with you, even if we aren't friends and I'm nowhere near your vocal level. Can you please understand that, Utau?"
"…That doesn't mean I would ever have to care about you once this whole little event is over."
"Actually, Utau, you'll be spending a lot of time with our freshmen. I think they need more vocal training, especially Amu with her power."
"What?!" The two girls exclaimed.
"B-But Ikuto-"
"Please, Utau?" His demeanor was still very cool and mysterious, but his eyes almost seemed to soften. Utau immediately blushed, turning away and crossing her arms.
"F-FINE, but I won't like it!"
Ikuto gave her a cheery smile. "Thank you, my darling little sister~"
"That ISN'T what your character is, so change it back!"
"That… didn't take much for her…" Nagihiko replied.
"Um, is Utau a tsundere type?"
"Kukai mentioned something about her being a 'moderate type A' a while back." Nagihiko chuckled. "But it really does make her seem a lot cuter, don't you think so?"
"…Ew."
"Okay, so from now on, we'll be having vocal sessions every day after breakfast, eleven o'clock sharp. No excuses or exceptions. If you're even one minute late, I'll start giving penalties." Utau began.
"So, a penalty game?" Amu mumbled.
"Have something you'd like to share, Amu Hinamori?"
"Nope, nothing that wouldn't get me into a world of hurt…"
"Good. Now, do either of you have any questions? Comments? Concerns?" Utau glared at Amu. "Maybe even any witty remarks, perhaps?" Amu kept a straight face.
"N-No problems on this end, Utau." Nagihiko piped up.
"We'll begin tomorrow."
By the time that Amu had returned to her room, she found that Nadeshiko had not yet returned. Papers were scattered all over the room, especially on Nadeshiko's bed. Amu picked up one of them—it was a drawn picture of Amu herself… one in which Amu was clothed in a black dress, her hair done up in one ponytail. At the bottom of the paper were the words 'to Ikuto'. Obviously, she was planning something behind her back, and plain to say, the message wasn't approved by Amu. She crumpled up the picture and threw it out of the window.
The moment she started to close the window again, she heard the sound of melodious singing alongside violin. She knew the voice all too well—no one else had a voice that could even compare to Utau's, and there weren't many people who could play violin in a tone as clear as Ikuto's. Once the playing had ended, she closed the window.
"Have you seen my manga pens?" Nadeshiko asked, scanning the contents of her bed a third time. Amu flipped to another page in her magazine.
"No…" But she did. She hid them in order to avoid her drawings of doom. They were securely tucked away in her suitcase.
"It's okay. Maybe Nagi borrowed them and forgot to return them." Nadeshiko gave her a smile. Amu managed to smile back. "Well, ready for breakfast?"
"Yeah." Then Nadeshiko's smile faded.
"Amu, what's wrong? You keep giving me one word responses… you only ever do something like that when you're upset with me…"
"Nothing's wrong, I'm just doing a lot of thinking."
Nadeshiko sat down on the bed next to her, once again with a cheerful smile on her angelic face. "Do you want to talk about it with me?"
"…Nope."
"…All right. I understand." She got up from Amu's bed. "Whatever I did to you, I'm very sorry, Amu…" Then she left the room. Amu sighed before following suit minutes later.
During breakfast, Kukai and Nagihiko couldn't help but be concerned about the current conflict between Amu and Nadeshiko, whatever it may have been that caused the friction so quickly.
"…You two haven't said a word to each other since you got into the dining hall..." Nagihiko began. "What's wrong?"
"Nothing." The two girls replied in unison. Tadase sweat-dropped.
"Does this happen often?" Kukai asked.
"No." Nagihiko mumbled. "I've never known them to get into arguments…"
"Nade-chi, make up with Amu-chi!" Yaya exclaimed, flailing a bit.
"I tried… She doesn't want to talk. I don't know what's wrong."
"Nadeshiko." Nagihiko glanced back and saw Himeko and Eri. "It's time for practice, leave these losers."
Nadeshiko got up from her seat, gathering her empty bowls. She looked to Amu once before walking off with the girls.
"I'm gonna get going too. We have a morning practice now. Come on, Amu." Amu and Nagihiko got up from their seats. They made their way down the hall until Amu heard the sound of piano playing in the distance.
"…Go on ahead of me, Nagihiko. I forgot something in my room."
"Okay. Just try not to be late, you remember what Utau said would happen."
"I won't be late, promise." Then she walked off towards the source of the sound. She came to a piano room on the second floor, and inside was Takumi Fuse, highly motivated by his current piece. When the door opened, he continued to play.
"May I help you, Lady Hinamori?" Amu was appalled—he never once looked up from the piano. He truly was a prodigy. "I figured you would come to the sound of Beethoven… however, even I had no idea that it would be this soon…"
"You knew I would come?"
"There are many, many things I know about you. I read you like an open book. You're shy, timid, stubborn as a mule… you love to sing, but lack the courage to raise your voice in front of others. You fear rejection, and you hide your past from others…" Takumi reached for her wrist and Amu jerked away, wide eyed. "You fear most for people to judge you… And as of now, you're late for your practice session, as you only have two minutes exactly to reach the fourth floor. I suggest running."
Amu let out a shriek before doing so. "You SUCK!"
Takumi smirked. "You can't keep secrets from me, Amu. Your days of hiding are finally going to come to an end."
Amu ran to the fourth floor and into the piano room, where she was met with Utau's cold stare.
"Late."
"What?!" She looked to the clock. 11:01 A.M. "…But I RAN!"
"Still late."
"But-"
"No excuses. You get the first penalty game. Aren't you special?" Amu slumped. She remained that way until she felt a hand pat her hair a bit, glancing up and spotting Ikuto.
"Yo.
"Oh, Ikuto, you came~!" Utau beamed.
"Sorry I'm late, had to drive off a green-haired fangirl."
"Oh, that's fine~"
"What?! But he was later than I was!" Amu exclaimed.
"Deal with it, this is REALITY. There will always be someone that won't want to tolerate you and others that will. I'm the former." Utau hissed.
"Why do you even have a problem with me?! I've never done anything to you!"
"Will you two cut it out? We're all here on business. If you can't work out your issues and quickly, leave them or yourselves at the door. After this event is over, you won't ever have to deal with each other again." Ikuto took his seat at the piano. "Got it?"
"…Yeah."
"Uh huh."
"Okay, the first verse… we already established at an earlier time that it will consist of Amu, Nagihiko and myself. Utau, you'll be coming in at the start of the second verse. We'll have to work around the harmonies and the last verse, because I can't have too many parts due to also having to emcee the event."
"You're doing way too much lately, Ikuto." Utau began. "You're emceeing the Fall Breakthrough, you're performing, and you've even composed the piece."
"It's fine. I'm gonna be able to rest easily after this is over, because I'm going back home for a few days." Amu didn't know whether to be relieved or upset. Ikuto looked to her, smiling. "What's with the face? Gonna miss me when I go?"
She blushed. "W-What?! A-As if I'd ever miss a pervert like you!" Ikuto leaned in a bit closer.
"Oh yeah…?" His voice, to Amu… was like sex. But she wouldn't admit it aloud. Then SHE'D be the pervert.
Utau and Nagihiko acted simultaneously, pulling the two apart—Utau to Amu, Nagihiko to Ikuto. However, Utau was mainly only looking to choke and/or mutilate Amu, and most likely would have gotten the chance if not for Ikuto's death glare.\
"Let's… get started with this." Nagihiko piped up.
And so it began.
"Well, according to my sources… Ikuto formed his own group for the Breakthrough. We also discovered the confirmed date for the event… October 23rd. We get a little less than three weeks to prepare." Eri explained to Himeko.
"Ikuto is emceeing the event, and he's also looking to perform. Chances are he's also doing the group's compositions. He'll be more vulnerable; it'll be easy to take down him and his little groupies."
"What do you think we should do?"
"Easy. We can work wonders in these next three weeks." Eri was confused. "We plan, we perform… we strike, and we will win."
"Ah… so we sabotage."
"Exactly." Himeko grinned. "I like how fast you're seeing it my way, Eri."
"Of course. As long as you keep your end of our deal."
"We're friends, right? I'll definitely keep my word about tracking down your mother; I assure you that, my dear."
"A-A-Ah, I have to do WHAT?!"
"You heard me. For your penalty, you're going to perform during one of our karaoke nights at dinner; pick the right song and practice up." Utau stated. "Your voice often drops when you're nervous. Think of this as a boost to your esteem."
"That's just going to CRUSH my esteem even more! I-I can't sing in front of everyone in that place!"
"Just what do you think the Fall Breakthrough IS?! What, are you just going to freeze up and ruin our chances of competing?!"
"Leave her alone, Utau…" Ikuto mumbled as he continued cleaning.
"Why do you always have to take HER side?! She's been doing nothing but sitting around, complaining and being afraid!"
"You've been complaining a lot too… Stop being so noisy…"
"I agree with Ikuto this time." Nagihiko replied. "I find it annoying that you two do nothing but argue."
"I'M not the one starting the arguments!" Amu hissed.
Ikuto let out a deep sigh. "I'm going outside to get some air. Same time tomorrow, got it?" Then he exited the room, violin case strapped on his back. Utau crossed her arms, as did Amu, the two turning away from one another immediately.
Nagihiko sighed. "You guys… Ikuto worked hard to put this together, and we're all putting in effort… but even so, the least we could all do is get along. Utau, you said that we should be building on one another's strengths and assist when weak. Please, can you two just try that until the event is over?" Amu slowly looked to Utau, and Utau did the same.
"…We'll get along for a three-week trial period… for Ikuto's sake." Utau began. "But I'll be damned if I let you take my brother away from me."
"I don't want your brother. Believe that much." She turned to leave. "…And even if I did… I'm not like Himeko when it comes to him." Then Amu exited the room.
Eventually, Amu went outside and started to go to the Royal Garden.
"So you know about the gardens too?" She glanced in all directions. "Trees." She looked up to the treetops, and there sat Ikuto, cunning expression on his face.
"Kukai showed me..."
"I know. I hoped he would." She blushed, and then he jumped from the trees, right in front of her. "Don't look so childish."
"H-Hey, I'm NOT a child!" He turned to leave again.
"I would think so. Consider yourself lucky that you're not an adult."
"W-Wait!" He turned around and saw how saddened her face had become. He couldn't help but stare at her, almost as if he had sincerely cared about her. Then he walked over to her, putting a hand to her cheek and brushing a few strands of hair from her eyes. She blushed, leaning in to the touch.
"Amu…"
"Y-Yes…?"
"…You belong here." Then he pulled away, continuing to stare at her. Amu stared at him with tear-filled eyes. "…I'm sorry about that. I'm… doing too much. I'll leave you alone to think now."
As he turned to leave, Amu reacted involuntarily and grabbed him by his shirt sleeve. Ikuto was stunned. He faced her again, eyes unspeakably calm.
"…I…"
He leaned in a bit towards her, so close that Amu could feel his breath on her lips. And he was getting closer. Then she felt him touch her waist, and she slightly jumped, but didn't move much afterwards. Ikuto could catch her natural scent of what he depicted as lilies faintly, licking—nearly biting—her neck seductively. Amu moaned a bit as his teeth lightly ran across her skin—this event was pleasuring and terrifying her all at once.
Then she heard someone whistle.
"Well, this is unexpected…" Ikuto glanced back and saw Kukai, Tadase, Nagihiko and Nadeshiko. Tadase glared at him.
"Tsukiyomi."
"Tadase." Ikuto replied in an equally dark tone. Amu was frozen momentarily, but soon regained herself and ran past the four, dashing back into the school.
"Amu!" Nadeshiko ran after her. Nagihiko slowly shook his head before racing off after the two.
"You're a DISGRACE, violating Hinamori like that!" Ikuto just stared at him. "Why would you even pull a stunt like that?! Answer me, Tsukiyomi!"
"…Because Amu isn't going to be sad around me." Then Ikuto went off.
Amu lay in her bed that following evening, staring out of the window the entire time. She thought of Ikuto, of music, of her final decision to join Ikuto's group for the Fall Breakthrough… of what her parents would have thought if they saw her in a musical University while they were alive. She could never bear it. They would be upset—crushed that she would jump into such an unpredictable field.
She suddenly heard the sound of violin outside and got up from her bed, opening the fairly large window. Below, she saw Ikuto playing.
His face was peaceful, and the calm autumn breeze almost made the melancholic melody itself dance off of the walls and into her heart. She stared at him, wide-eyed. Then he looked up and saw her, but continued to play. She leaned over the windowsill a bit, a smile creeping onto her face.
Could Ikuto Tsukiyomi do no wrong?
"Gonna keep watching me like that, perverted girl?"
…Apparently he could.
"Hey, I am NOT perverted! You-you were the one who started playing your violin outside of my window like some kind of stalker!"
"The piano room was locked."
"Play in YOUR dorm!"
"Takumi kicked me out so that he can practice the compositions that he got assigned to accompany at the event."
"You irritate me, you-!" Then Amu tumbled over the windowsill. Ikuto sprang forward, catching her. Amu blew some hair out of her face.
"You sure do fall down a lot." He set her down before eyeing her up and down. "Nice panties, by the way."
Amu froze. She WAS in her shirt and underwear! "Omigosh, NO!" She tried to cover herself, to an obvious amount of no avail. Ikuto sighed before slowly removing his jacket. He tossed it to her.
"…It's getting cold out, and I don't need a member of my group catching cold." Amu put the jacket over herself—it was highly oversized for her, even sliding off of her shoulders. Luckily, it also was big enough to cover her underwear. "…So, pink with strawberry designs on them? …Such a kid."
"N-No, t-t-they aren't—I—Wha—S-Stop it!"
"You continue to surprise me. I must say…" He leaned in a bit.
Amu froze up, blushing. "H-Huh?"
"You really do impress me… because I'm interested in you."
"I hate people who lie."
"…Me too." Amu was stunned.
"Ikuto…"
Then a window slammed from up above, the sound so fierce that the glass had literally shattered and fell to the grass. It would have hit Amu in the head, had Ikuto not pulled her away in time and held her close as if to shield her.
"YOU SLUT!" Ikuto rolled his eyes.
"Himeko stalking me as usual…" He released Amu, who then sighed. "Come on. It's late. I'll take you back up to your room."
"N-No, I can walk myself there, don't worry about it…" Just as Amu was about to turn and walk off, Ikuto grabbed her by the arm.
"…So… do you always wear a pair of armbands?" Amu jerked her arm free and then ran off, once again leaving Ikuto alone and confused. {A/N: It's gonna be revealed at a later date, but remember this scene.}
"No, no, NO! Amu, your pitch is off; Nagihiko, your tone isn't strong enough! Do it again!"
"Yes…" Nagihiko and Amu mumbled. Then there was a knock on the door, and when it opened, there stood Takumi.
"…Fuse." Utau mumbled.
"Lady Hoshina." Takumi replied, speaking only in English. "Good day to you all. I will be taking the slot of your temporary accompaniment, as Ikuto has become caught up in many various tasks as of late."
"…What?" Amu asked.
"Ah, right…" Takumi cleared his throat, repeating himself in Japanese for Amu's sake before continuing his sentences in Japanese. "My apologies, Miss Hinamori, I feel that you should pick up more English speaking skills."
"…Sorry, I… never did learn much English in high school. I know enough, but not too much…" Takumi glared at her. Even Utau felt a bit tense at his expression.
"English is the language of the world, and clearly the most diverse. To not know English is like sealing off your entire life outside of Japan—like sealing off some of your life's most glorious activities to come. To be a performer of any kind, English is a requirement should you be given, for instance, a movie role in America. You will automatically lose if you know little or none of their dominate language."
"I'LL teach her how to sing in English, without an accent and everything!" Nagihiko piped up suddenly. "I've lived in Europe for two years; it's easy for me to speak English now!"
"Then you do that." Takumi stated, taking a seat at the piano again. Almost immediately before he began playing, there was another knock on the door and in came Kukai in a panic.
"Guys, major trouble!"
"Kukai, what's up?" Amu asked.
"Ikuto collapsed!"
Utau immediately ran off, followed by Amu and Nagihiko. Takumi slowly shook his head as the four ran off before looking to the piano again.
"I forewarned them… Every soul has a breaking point…" Then he began playing Moonlight Sonata on the piano.
"I should have never agreed to let you perform along with emceeing. It's a very strenuous risk."
"Dad, seriously, I'm fine. I just need sleep and everything else will come easily." Ikuto laid back, taking a few sips of his strawberry milk—he wanted chocolate, they were out of stock for a while.
"I forbid you to perform-"
"Sorry, but I'm old enough to decide my fate. I would rather perform than emcee if you're looking for me to have less strain on my body. I'm not much of a talker anyways." Then the door opened and in came Utau, out of breath. Aruto and Ikuto looked to her, then to each other.
"…Dad…?" Utau mumbled. Aruto went over to her, patting her head a bit.
"…We will talk about this at a later time, Ikuto." Then Aruto exited the infirmary. Utau went up to Ikuto, grabbing him by the hand.
"You could have been in much better shape if you had just listened, Ikuto! I was so, so worried~!" Ikuto sweat-dropped.
"I'm fine, Utau…"
"But you COLLAPSED!"
"Quite dramatically, I add~" Ikuto joked, smirking.
"Stop it! Don't joke around like that!" She burst into tears, nuzzling her face with his still ridiculously gripped hand. "If you aren't here, who am I going to love?!"
"What the…?" The two siblings looked to the doorway, where they found a now disturbed-looking Amu and Kukai. Utau's eyes narrowed before she turned her attention again to Ikuto.
"Ignore her… Kiss me…"
"We are SIBLINGS, Utau."
"…Man, I knew Utau loved her brother, but this is a bit…" Kukai began.
"Psychotic? Ridiculous…? …Strenuous on Ikuto's behalf?"
"I was gonna say extreme, but thanks for the adjective lesson, Hinamori."
"Just get this girl OFF of me!" Ikuto hissed. Kukai immediately pulled Utau off of Ikuto and then led her out of the room. Then Ikuto looked to Amu. "Well, hello there, strawberry panties~"
Amu shielded her skirt a bit. "T-They weren't mine!"
He now eyed the carton of milk in her hands. "Ooh, is that chocolate milk? Can I have some?" Before Amu could reply, Ikuto had taken her by surprise—he took a few sips from the straw… very, very slow sips… he was either teasing her or trying to swipe an indirect kiss from her. It both infuriated her, and due to his current mysterious and majestic-like expression, turned her on.
"Y-You owe me another drink!"
"I owe you so much more~"
Then the door opened, and in came Nagihiko, a fierce expression on his adorable face. "You're never going to believe this."
"What's wrong, Nagihiko?" Amu asked. Nagihiko held up a flyer to the two. On it was a picture of Himeko, Eri and Nadeshiko pointing fingers forward, almost directed at them in precision.
"Nade gave me this. We're being called out. And they want us to strike up a deal with them in the process. If we participate in the karaoke event tonight in a battle—one on one—then if we win, they'll drop out. They win, we drop out."
"Of the Fall Breakthrough?"
"They're playing dirty with us and trying to test our abilities. I wouldn't go and take that bet." Ikuto replied. "It wouldn't be smart."
"Himeko just wants to lure me out." Amu began. "She wants to challenge me directly, and she's getting us all involved for that." She sighed. "I'm going to take the challenge on for myself."
"Amu, NO. Just don't. Himeko is going to beat you easily the way you are now. It's too risky." Ikuto exclaimed.
"…I have to try. Besides… I never did play the penalty game that Utau assigned."
"You idiot… Then I'm going with you." Ikuto started to get up until Amu shot him a dark glare and nearly forced him back onto the bed.
"Don't EVEN try it. Rest." Ikuto just stared at his opposer. "I'll be fine. I'll have Nagihiko and Utau along with me to help."
"And there's no way I would ever let anything happen to Amu." Ikuto stared at Nagihiko before nodding.
Himeko fiddled a bit with a bottle of pills before hearing a knock on the door. She jolted up, throwing the bottle under her pillow.
"What?!"
"It's Amu. I'd like you to know… we are accepting your challenge."
Himeko smirked. "So, you're ready to become my maid."
"Only if you're ready to admit that this school doesn't revolve around you alone." Amu heard a crash, and then the door swung open, nearly hitting her in the process.
"NEVER!" Amu was shaking. "I'll become this school's top idol, and I'LL be the most successful alumni in the regions of Japan!"
Then a hand came up above Himeko's head, another arm around Amu's shoulders. "My predictions give the inquiry that you, Himeko Toboe, are destined for greatness and then ultimate failure. In what way, it is still beyond my knowledge…"
"T-Takumi…!" Amu breathed. Crimson eyes flickered down to her, then back up at Himeko. The green-haired girl's face was pink.
"You know, Hime… You shouldn't be so angry at the world because of your own flaws… You look much more elegant when you're vulnerable as you are right now." Himeko pushed him from the doorway and onto the ground.
"YOU have no right to tell me what my future is going to be, you phony!" Then she slammed the door.
Takumi rolled his eyes. "Please… I know ALL…"
"What does that mean?" Amu asked.
"…Forgot you were here." He turned and walked away.
It was becoming clear…
Everyone had some kind of secret.
-That Evening-
"…Cute outfit, Amu." Nadeshiko piped up suddenly. Amu was clothed in a short sleeved red blouse with frills along the sleeves and dark blue jeans, red armbands visible from the wrist down. Her hair was done up in a high ponytail. To be honest, it looked too preppy for her, but she liked the outfit nonetheless.
"…Thanks. Uh, you too." Nadeshiko, in contrast, was wearing a long purple dress that would have covered her ankles if not for the heels she was wearing. Her hair was tied in a single braid at the moment, but curled down her shoulder as soon as she took the braid out.
"I'll, um… be leaving first…" Then Nadeshiko left the room. Amu sighed, messing with her ponytail a bit before tugging on her red armbands. She decided to just grab a jacket and conceal them again. Then she looked to the door, letting out yet another exasperated sigh.
"AMU-CHI~!" Yaya jumped up and clung to Amu as she entered the karaoke bar on campus. "You came, you came!"
"Uh, yeah…"
"You look pretty. Who's the lucky guy that's gonna take care of you tonight?"
"…Well…"
"IT'S THE PRINCES~!" The three glanced over in time to see Kukai and Tadase enter the bar. Immediately, Amu heard Nadeshiko giggle from afar and caught her looking at Kukai.
"Oh, hey guys!" Kukai called, making his way over to the group. "Sorry we're late, Tadase here couldn't decide what to wear."
Amu looked to Tadase. He was in a white dress shirt with black dress pants, the shirt unbuttoned a bit.
It nearly made her drool.
"My apologies…" Tadase caught Amu's gaze and then smiled.
"Well, well, look who decided to show up for the game." Eri called, walking up to the group with Himeko and Nadeshiko. Kukai looked at Nadeshiko, shaking his head. She immediately grew disheartened, almost afraid.
"I thought I caught a whiff of failure and desperation." Himeko sneered.
"The only one here desperate is YOU." Amu hissed. Then she felt someone grab her by the arm and found Utau.
"Not worth it to take her out now, Amu. Be professional about this. You'll have your chance." Amu nodded in agreement.
"Ohh, so she's gotten on good terms with blondie! How's your sexy big brother doing since the collapse, Utau?" Himeko giggled.
"IKUTO'S MINE, LITTLE SLUT!" Amu then grabbed Utau by both arms to restrain her.
"PROFESSIONAL, Utau!"
"Ooh, Utau, that was so cool! You looked just like Ikuto when you got angry! Do it again!" Eri joked.
"Now, now, none of that, ladies…" A voice blared from a microphone. The students all turned and saw Takumi up on stage, dressed in a white suit, a white top hat covering part of his silver hair. "No need to be mad."
"…Even HERE…" Amu breathed. "He's gotten way too good at popping up at the most perfect times…"
"You wish to fight at each and every encounter?" Takumi leapt off of the stage, directly in front of Himeko. He held out the microphone to her, a sly grin on his face. "Then you should do it properly, as Utau stated."
Himeko snatched the microphone from him, going up onto the stage. "Sweet Devil, karaoke version, NOW. Eri, up here, NOW."
"Coming!" Eri leapt up onto the stage as well as Himeko began cuing the music.
"Five… six… Five, six, seven, eight!" The music blared through the bar, and Himeko belted out a note during the instrumental as Eri took on back-up vocals.
[Sweet Devil-Guriri Ver.]
Himko began the first verse on her own, speaking in English—near perfect English. Then she had immediately jumped back into Japanese. That process continued throughout a majority of the song, and everyone in the bar was impressed by her range and tone, Amu included. All… but Utau.
"Her voice is shaking a bit on the higher notes she's pulling out at the end…"
"Ah, so you noticed that as well." Takumi stated, now standing directly next to her. Utau didn't appear to be surprised by his appearance. "The reason behind that is still beyond my predictions, however…"
"I'm not interested in knowing about what's been bothering her like you are. I just want her out of here." Utau retorted.
"That… is something I will be unable to predict for you, Lady Hoshina." Utau scoffed, continuing to listen to Himeko's song. Moments later, she finished, and the crowd was in an uproar.
"…Oh man… I-I feel so sick…" Amu mumbled, clutching her stomach. Kukai rubbed her shoulders a bit, smiling.
"It's just nerves. Relax, don't think about it." Amu nodded slightly. "Do you know what you want to sing to rise to the challenge?"
Amu thought of Ikuto for a moment, heat rising to her cheeks. Then she thought again of a song choice. "I think…" Then it hit her. "I have one!"
"C'mon, Hinamori, what're you waiting for, an invitation?" Himeko held out the microphone to her, eyes narrowing. Amu snatched it away.
"Aitai karaoke, please, no back up." Amu looked out into the crowd, gulping. Then she looked towards the back and saw Ikuto standing in the doorway—staring at her, mouthing sweet words to her.
"Pretend no one else is here… Look only at me. Sing." Amu slowly nodded.
"Anytime you're ready."
Amu began to cue the music.
[Aitai-Hanatan Ver.]
As soon as it began, she sang the opening part of the chorus. During the instrumental break, she let out a few more breaths. The entire time, she kept her eyes locked on Ikuto, who continued to watch carefully, eyes not once diverting away. She caught her cue, beginning the first verse, her voice wavering a bit, though it wasn't very noticeable.
Then as she looked to Ikuto again, her voice began to grow stronger. She heard Kukai let out an encouraging yell as she entered the chorus, and a smile lit up onto her face. She breezed through the second verse, confidence brimming so much that she was even dancing along with the music. By then, the crowd was getting fired up.
She paused before heightening her pitch a bit for the bridge, pointing out towards Ikuto, who smiled a bit. Then she blushed, giggling before entering the final chorus with strength that allowed her to finish with a powerful ending note. She winked to the crowd as she finished, and the crowd burst into an uproar.
"Well, it's clear that both of our lovely competitors have skill, but who's gonna walk away with bragging rights?" Himeko grinned; Amu just stared out into the crowd before her eyes darted to the floor. "According to the audience… It's a draw!"
"WHAT?!" Himeko roared.
"What…?" Amu breathed.
"ERI!" Himeko shrieked, mostly out of pure rage. Eri walked over to her. "This is NOT what was planned! You've ruined my chances of winning with your lousy back-up singing!" The moment that Himeko's shrill voice echoed through her ears, Eri felt her own anger grow.
"How is that my problem? Last I checked, I was only playing back-up because your vocals fail."
"…WHAT did you say?!"
"You heard me. Your voice fails. I detest listening to vocal music, and even I know how true that statement is."
"You're supposed to be my friend!"
"…I am, Himeko. A real friend wouldn't lie." Then Himeko's anger skyrocketed and she pushed Eri off of the stage, onto the metal floors below. Eri glared up at her, teeth clenched. "You little BITCH…"
"You can forget EVERYTHING about me helping you!" Then Himeko stormed off. Eri just glared at her back. {A/N: And here is where the hatred for Himeko grew in her makings. 0.0 Who in their right mind would DO something like that? Eri was just being a good friend.}
Nagihiko had suddenly reached out, putting a hand on the girl's shoulder. "You okay?" Eri looked to him and slowly got back onto to her feet only to let out a cry of pain. "Obviously not… Here, what hurts-"
"Don't touch me!" Eri hissed.
"Here, let me check." Rima knelt down by Eri's now trembling left foot. "Can you lift it at all?"
"N-No, it hurts…"
"From here, it looks like you may have sprained your foot. It's beginning to swell." Nagihiko was impressed. "I think you should go to the infirmary now for any further statements."
"Allow me." Takumi stated. "I feel that I partook in this consequence, so I'd like to make amends." Eri just stared at him, and Takumi's eyes glinted. "…Translation… Let me help, least I could do."
Eri heaved a sigh at this. "Apparently not all chivalry is damned. Fine. Escort me to the infirmary, Fuse…"
"With pleasure, Miss Tachibana."
"I can't believe 'Queen' Himeko threw her faithful servant off of her own throne." Nagihiko stated the following day at practice.
"I can't believe we actually tied at the karaoke event." Amu mumbled.
"I can't believe Ikuto is LATE!"
"Don't worry too much, Utau. I'm sure that Ikuto's alive and-" Utau shot the boy a death glare so intense, so dark that Nagihiko could've pissed himself if he had lost even a bit of composure.
Then the door opened and in came Ikuto, violin case carelessly slumped over his left shoulder. However, Amu noticed a distant expression on his face. He looked a bit paler than usual and more tired.
"Sorry I'm late…"
Amu stood up. "You should be back resting still."
"What are you TALKING about?" Amu grabbed him by the arm and pulled him into the hall. "What are you-" Amu threw a hand over his forehead and almost immediately pulled it away.
"You DO have a fever." She growled.
"I took medicine already, Amu, stop overreacting… It's not like it's gonna kill me or anything…"
"It's because you left the infirmary last night, isn't it?!" Ikuto once again caught her gaze, and Amu backed away slightly only to run into the wall and get pinned there instantly—she was going to be cornered yet again by him.
"I wasn't going to miss your performance for anything in the world…" She blushed furiously. "Nothing could keep me from you…" He caressed her cheek with his hand, and she slightly cringed Then he leaned closer, nipping her ear. She was slowly falling victim to his pleasure… and yet, she'd gladly risk being his sex toy, though she'd never admit it to herself.
"S-Stop…" Ikuto pulled away.
"…Sorry. I… couldn't help it." She stared at him with concern, blush still fresh on her face. Ikuto grinned. "What's with the look? Is the princess finally giving in to her naughty thoughts about her potential king?"
"N-No, don't be so stupid…"
"Amu?" She whirled around, and Ikuto kissed her on the forehead, causing her to jump into a near frenzy. "That's all. I'm gonna take a cat nap. Later."
"…H-H-H-He just…! IKUTO, YOU PERVERT!"
"So Ikuto went back to his dorm?" Nagihiko asked. Amu nodded.
"I made him go back and rest. He has a fever." Utau froze.
"Well, aren't you the caring girlfriend." Nagihiko joked, causing Amu to blush.
"N-NOT his girlfriend!" Utau got up from her seat, back to the two.
"…No practice today. Go on and enjoy this day." Then she exited the piano room. The two looked to one another.
"Are you worried that she'll do something rash to Ikuto?"
"I'm more worried about Ikuto. She's probably gonna chew him out for letting himself catch a fever."
"Not like it's bothering him though. He looked decent enough, after all." Amu got up from her seat and exited the piano room only to crash into someone. When Amu looked up, she saw Eri reaching her hand out to grab one of her crutches. Amu got up before she had, holding out a hand to her.
"…No thanks." She mumbled.
"I really am sorry about yesterday, Eri." Eri got up, positioning herself on the crutches again moments later.
"Yeah, you and about eighty percent of the student body. I don't need your pity, got it?" When Eri turned away from her, Amu noticed tears spilling onto the floor. Then Eri went on her way. {A/N: Yep, Eri... is the tough as nails in exterior girl of the story, but the one who is also sensitive when it comes to someone really caring.}
Everyone has secrets, some even darker than your own.
Amu went back to her dorm, where she found Nadeshiko drawing. She had looked up when the door opened, but didn't bother to greet her. Amu wasn't bothered, taking more interest in her bed than in her so-called best friend.
It remained that way for hours at a time, until dinner had finally rolled around, and even after that, Amu still felt completely empty inside.
"Hinamori?" Amu glanced up at the sound of Tadase's voice. "I know this is sudden, but… would you like to go for a walk with me?"
Amu felt almost obligated to say yes, but nonetheless got to her feet and exited the dining hall with him.
"This could be interesting." Rima replied. "It's young love in the making."
"But Amu likes Ikuto!" Nagihiko now exclaimed. "I see their connection!" Nadeshiko was stunned by their conversation.
"But it's evident that Amu likes Tadase too." Rima argued. "But I suppose that we'll see soon enough."
"W-We will?"
"That's right. We're going to spy on them for ourselves." Rima grabbed Nagihiko by the arm, pulling him from his seat and leading him out of the dining area.
"…Man, things are about to get REALLY interesting now." Kukai stated. Nadeshiko looked to him, he looked to her. Then they both looked away from one another, Nadeshiko blushing a bit.
Amu saw the lilies beginning to fall from the trees, down into the pond. Tadase just watched her, smiling.
"Right… It's autumn now, isn't it? Of course the flowers would drop down to make room for new ones to bloom…"
"The same applies for us all too. All the High-Arts members may be leaving in the Spring to start their professions. We're supposed to be the landline for them in the long run—to make them feel proud when they step down from their pedestals at the highest center-peak of this University."
Then it hit Amu. Ikuto was going to leave at the end of the school year.
"…I see…"
"I'm sure that I'll win."
"Huh? What do you mean?" Tadase turned and faced her, causing her to blush.
"…Amu…" She was stunned. He called her by name. "We haven't known each other for very long, but… I'd like to know more about the real you. So, I selfishly ask… will you allow me to love you?" Amu froze. {A/N: ...And commence Tadamu hating... NOW. ^_^ Yay.}
"…I… I just…" Tadase took her by her hands, and Amu couldn't break his gaze.
Nagihiko and Rima peered out from the bushes, watching over the two from afar.
"Told you she liked Tadase."
"What are you TALKING about, she looks horrified!" He whispered.
"No, she DOESN'T, she looks surprised."
"Nagi, what are you doing?" A voice called. Nagihiko and Rima froze before looking up and spotting Ikuto. He was drinking a carton of chocolate milk.
"Ikuto? …Oh, um, I-I… I-"
"Watching Amu and Tadase." Rima replied in a teasing matter.
"Mashiro!" Nagihiko hissed.
"…Amu and Tadase together?" Ikuto glanced over in time to see Tadase lean forward and kiss her on the cheek. He felt his heart sink into the pits of his stomach, and let the carton of milk fall from his hand and spill into the grass.
Amu felt her face redden to extremes. "W-What was THAT for?"
"You deserve to be loved by someone, Amu. I hope that you pick me." He gave off a smile that nearly made Ikuto puke. Then Tadase turned to leave. "I'll see you tomorrow, okay?"
"…Ikuto, are you gonna be okay?" Nagihiko asked. Ikuto staggered a bit before regaining his composure.
"…I'm going back to bed…" Then he was gone.
"So, was my prediction correct?" Takumi asked as Ikuto got into bed after a fit of stress-induced coughs had crept up onto him mere minutes later. "You're just going to make yourself more ill if you try to play your hand in your current state of mind…"
"Shut up…"
"I'm never wrong, Ikuto, you should know that better than anyone." Ikuto just sighed. "What do you plan to do about your lovely princess Amu?" Ikuto could feel another fit of coughs starting up again from the mere mention of Amu, but swallowed as if to keep them down.
"…Let me sleep…" Ikuto spoke English, which only made Takumi grin.
"I understand you aren't well. Have a good rest~" Takumi shut off his lamp.
The following morning, Ikuto came to practice about ninety percent recovered. His fever broke hours before, though he retained a slight cough at times. Amu was relieved, but grew more worried of the fact that he was now completely ignoring her.
"Iku-"
"Hey, Utau, why don't you help Amu with her vocals for the ending?"
"Okay." Amu mentally scoffed at this and Nagihiko shook his head as the two girls left the room.
"You can't just ignore her…"
"Already am. She has Tadase. She doesn't need me there bothering her little love affair anyways."
"…Then just try to be a friend to her. Being in the friend zone isn't nearly as bad as being ignored altogether." Nagihiko replied before mumbling under his breath, "I would know…"
"…I can't… Look at her, she… she has so much going for her. If I can't be with her, then I'd rather not even talk to her."
"Get a grip, man!" Nagihiko roared. Ikuto felt himself tense a bit. "Face it! You like Amu a lot, and I know Amu likes you! Now, I'm gonna go to the restroom, and when I come back, you had better be on terms with your feelings!"
Once out of the room… 'Nagihiko' pulled HER hair into a ponytail, grinning.
"Nice job, sis." Nagihiko called from around the corner. He was clothed in Nadeshiko's knee-length white skirt, light blue shirt and dark blue jean jacket. "You're right. It IS fun playing match-maker."
"I just love yelling at people." They entered the unisex stall, swapping clothes. Nagihiko threw the jacket over the stall, and Nadeshiko passed his jeans under to him.
"I hope he isn't too mad about getting yelled at."
"I bet under that mysterious character is a guy with a heart made of mush. I doubt that he'd be too upset."
Then Nagihiko's mind traveled…
"Oh, Nagi, don't worry about what happened before! Here, you can have some of my candy and chocolate milk as a peace offering~"
He shuddered. "I-I think I'd be more afraid if he WASN'T angry."
"Well, I guess that you'll see." They simultaneously stepped out of the stalls and looked to one another.
"Uh, Nade, your hair is down."
"Huh? Oh…"
"Here, let me." He pulled the ribbons from his wrist, pulling her hair up into her usual high ponytail with ease. Then he tied it with the ribbons. "There. Much better."
"Ooh, you'd better get going soon. Otherwise, you're gonna get suspected of something big by Ikuto."
"Okay. Thanks, see you later on." Then he left the stalls.
Nadeshiko sighed a bit. "…Was that good enough for you? Sitting back and watching me betray my own twin brother?"
Himeko opened one of the stalls, grinning. "You did splendidly, Nade. Your cooperation is very well obliged."
"…And once all of this is over, you promise that you'll leave Amu alone and won't bother her anymore?"
"As long as her relationship with Ikuto remains completely platonic, I swear that I won't cause any more trouble for her."
"…And what happens to her if not?"
"Chances are, I won't even come close to what I did with Eri to her the way things are going now." Then Nadeshiko exited the stalls. "…But I will still beat her out. That is without a doubt, guaranteed."
Nadeshiko glared back at the stall slightly. "…Everyone has something to hide. And I'll figure out what your niche is if it's the last thing that I do in my career, even if it means going against everything that I believe in… I will not let this be in vain."
"What's your secret?"
Amu glanced over at Ikuto as he pushed a pair of glasses up the bridge of his nose. Her eyes saddened a bit. He slightly glanced up at her and their gaze met before he turned his attention back to his composition. Ikuto tapped on his notebook a bit, thinking back to the night when he first saw Amu wearing armbands.
"What's HER secret?"
Takumi's Cheshire-like grin curved ear to ear as he watched over the two from the classroom window. "Soon… things will begin to fall into place and then…"
"I'll know it in time."
So ends arc three now... I don't know when the next update will be, even though I'm currently writing arc four in my notebook, but because of my college courses, it's hard to say.
Though, on a slight update... 0.0 So far college isn't that bad. Sure, it's a big change jumping and moving to a new state and not knowing anyone or where to go, but... I guess I needed a new environment anyways after the last month.
I also plan on updating my story "Destructive Paths" in good time... but I need to actually rewrite the second (in terms of updates)/first chapter (in terms of writing), as I left my binder with the start of it in my big ol' box of writing in storage. -_- But it will be done.
Anyways, I hope you enjoyed this arc, and keep your eyes peeled for the next, as you'll never know when it'll come up.