A/N: Hi everybody! I'm sorry again for the delay. I was so busy in many things that I didn't had the chance to just sit down and continue writing… (_)

By the way, has anyone read the extra pages of Nisekoi? How do you feel about a possible romance between Ratoge's son and Onodera's daughter? More importantly, who is Onodera's husband?! Is he better than our dear Prince Suzuya?

Well, knowing the author, he may add another tsundere character to steal Ratoge's son's heart. He did that with the original storyline so who knows what'll happen. I don't care either way though… Onodera's daughter has to be protected!

Anyway, on to the next chapter!

Disclaimer: Some facts are not 100% accurate. I've used present information for the benefit of the plot.

"Please Miyamoto-san!"

Friday afternoon. Most of the students had already gone home. Some had stayed behind for their club activities, while some were at karaoke bars or game centers and were having a grand time with their friends or lovers. And here I am… prostrated in front of Onodera's stoic friend, Miyamoto Ruri. After I had explained my predicament to her, I immediately went on my knees and bowed with my forehead almost touching the floor. I didn't know what expression she had on right no, but if I had to guess, then it would be her usual poker face.

"You should not bow in front of a commoner, Your Highness."

I raised my head a little, just to meet her eyes. I was right. Giving her a small, sincere smile, I replied, "We are all equal in God's eyes."

A tired sigh came out of Miyamoto's lips as she set her bag down on a nearby table. "I don't understand. You are already aware that Kosaki likes Ichijou-kun, and with a little push, Kosaki will confess to him and they will be a couple. Even though you know these facts, why do you still persist to pursue her?"

I stood up and looked at her deadpan eyes with determination.

"You may find it illogical or out-of-this-world, but I have a feeling that's deeply settled in the depths of my being… that I have met her before. That in another time, in a faraway place, I've held her hands close to my heart. And that feeling resonated within me when I first saw her…"

My heart was beating wildly while I spoke those words. I've never opened up to anybody ever since I was a child. My only confidante was my grandfather, but there are also things that I can't tell him either. Especially, my feelings. But, why? Talking with Miyamoto like this seems to be a normal thing to do. However strange and weird that may sound. Miyamoto still had on her usual poker face, but I could sense that she felt somewhat repulsed for what I just said. I chuckled inwardly as I rubbed the back of my neck.

"I know that Onodera-san could never look at me the same way she looks at Raku… but I want to take this chance to get to know her better. That maybe… even if it will just take a second… Onodera-san could look at me in a different light." My eyes softened as I imagine her bright smile lightening up whichever situation she finds herself in. "If I don't take this opportunity, I won't have another second chance."

For a second, I felt Miyamoto consider my words seriously, but she proved to be a hard nut to crack. She took her bag and headed for the door. But before totally exiting, she turned her head to the side. "I've said before that I would stand by Kosaki no matter who she chooses. I'm sorry, Your Highness, but apparently… that's not you."

"I understand. If I was her best friend, I would want her to be happy with her decisions as well." I sighed hard as I took pieces of paper from my pocket. "Now what am I supposed to do with these food coupons?"

"Food Coupons?"

"Ah. Yeah. I got complimentary food coupons from Tokuoka-sensei. He's going to see through all the meals for Tanabata so he thought I'd want to visit Kitcho and—"

For a moment I was holding the coupons, and in the next, they were gone! Miyamoto is now standing in front of me and in her hands were the coupons I had just a few seconds ago. She was staring at them like they were rare pieces of jewelry. Yes! Backup plan, success! I tried to hide the satisfaction in my face, but looking at how Miyamoto is staring at me suspiciously, my happiness must be so obvious.

"To have Kunio Tokuoka-sensei, executive chef of the most exclusive restaurant in Japan to overlook the meals of a simple festival… It must be so glorious to be a part of the royal family."

I scratched the back of my head. "Onodera-san's food tastes much better, in my opinion."

"That's just because your taste buds also like Kosaki." Miyamoto retorted as she carefully tucked in the coupons inside the deepest and safest corner of her bag. She sighed as she nodded at me. "I will cancel our meeting this weekend in exchange for these food coupons. But don't think that you can bribe me again, Your Highness."

"Hahaha! I think it would take a 5 Michelin Star restaurant to pique your interest, Miyamoto-san. But… thank you for giving me this chance."

Saturday, 9AM.

I stood in the midst of a bustling train station. The Imperial Household had originally planned to send 3 limos filled with bodyguards to come pick me up for Tanabata, but I immediately had that decision thwarted when it was presented to me. I wasn't about to make Onodera uncomfortable because of the exclusivity of being with a member of the Imperial Family, plus I like taking the train. You can meet so many different kinds of people and know their life stories when taking public transportation. I want to be as close to the common folk as I can. Heaven knows how long I could keep this up.

There were a lot of commuters than normal because of Tanabata. Tanabata, or Star Festival, is a special occasion wherein people ask the gods for good harvest, and it is also romantically known as a chance for the two deities, Orihime and Hikoboshi, to meet again after a year of being separated by the Milky Way. People from all over Japan celebrate this festival in their own hometowns, but they would mostly visit the Old Capital, to celebrate with the Imperial Family. The Old Imperial Palace is open to the public for just a certain time, before it closes to give privacy to the royal family and its guests. I've never not attended Tanabata, at the behest of my Grandfather. He can be such a persistent old man.

"Owada-kun!"

My heart skipped a beat when I heard my name being called. I looked for the source of that voice, and my eyes gleamed when I saw her running towards me. Onodera looked especially cute today! Her face is flushed and was full of sweat, but I didn't mind. She still looked beautiful in my eyes.

"Were you waiting long?"

"No, I just arrived too!" Heh, I lied. I was there for almost an hour because I couldn't sleep that night. I made plans for the entire day, and that involved Onodera having a chance encounter with my family. I want to introduce her to my family, but won't she be intimidated by them? My grandfather's a potato in my eyes, but to others, he has this presence that demands reverence. Oh well, I'll see how it goes. "Let's go?"

After just a few minutes, Onodera and I were speeding through the high-rise buildings of the metropolis that gradually disappeared and turned into the rice fields of the province. Onodera was beside the window, while I sat beside her. It was a two-hour train ride to the Old City so I'm glad I had that time to have Onodera to myself. The moment we step out of this train, it will be hectic for the both of us.

"Have you ever gone to Kyoto, Onodera-san?"

Onodera placed a finger on her chin in thought. So cute. "Hmmm~ I may have visited before, but I don't remember it so well. It was a long time ago. I'm sure you've been there lots of times, Owada-kun."

I smiled as I offered her something to drink. "Yeah, since Tanabata is traditionally held at the Old City, we've no choice but to go there each year. You'll love it Onodera-san! The wind is fresh, the abundant trees give shelter from the sun, and the food is amazing! I can't wait to show you around~"

"Oh, speaking of food, I've packed us lunch while we're on the train. Here." Onodera's hands disappeared inside her bag and when it appeared again, she brought out two daintily packaged boxes. Ahhhh~ I feel like a husband given food by his wife. I almost wept from being too happy! "It's a shame that the others are too busy to come with us. Ruri-chan too. She had to cancel our shopping because of other appointments."

I quietly snickered at this. Don't get me wrong! I think being with the others would be great since it's fun to be with them… but I'd rather have Onodera to myself today. After all, it's Tanabata—and all of its romantic connotations. I don't want anyone interfering with our time now, even if it's just this special occasion. It's a good thing everyone was strangely preoccupied. See? Even the universe agrees with me. At this moment, it's just me and Onodera!

That… is what should've been. But why am I facing Raku now?

"Uh…"

"Kosaki-chan! It's good to see you here! Finally, somebody other than this beansprout~~~"

And… Kirisaki.

Why are they here? Both of them were wearing formal traditional clothing that suited the theme of the festival. Raku seems to be surprised to see Onodera with me. After all, he likes her, and to be with someone other than him, he must be raging with a hundred questions right now.

"I totally forgot Owada-san is actually a member of the Imperial Family~ Of course you'll be here for the festivities that's being hosted at the Palace. But why are you here Kosaki-chan?"

Well, that's one way for him to know why we are together. Way to go Kirisaki.

"Uhmmm…"

I stepped forward. "I invited Onodera-san. Simple as that."

Kirisaki seemed to be content and a bit pleased with my answer however Raku still has a perplexed mask painted on his face. It was a mixture of shock, frustration, and confusion.

"Your Highness!"

Ah, the royal seamstresses! Good timing~ These are women explicitly hired by the Imperial Household to maintain the beauty and tradition of the clothing of the Royal Family. Most of them were middle-aged and some looked young and inexperienced. Leading the group was the eldest among the seamstresses and my most trusted confidante while I was still a boy who lived inside the Old Palace. A few meters before approaching us, the group stopped and bowed except for the senior who stepped in front of me and regarded me with a nod. I turned to Onodera with a smile.

"Onodera-san, this is the head seamstress of the Imperial Family. She will help you change into the appropriate attire for the festival. Please follow her and I'll meet up with you after I'm done changing as well."

Onodera had a nervous look on her face but she lightened up when Kirisaki offered to help. The girls walked hurriedly to change and I was left with Raku.

"So, uh… You and Onodera…."

I tried my hardest not to look smug. For the first time, I was ahead of the race! After all, Onodera is here with me and not with Raku. But, heh, who was I kidding? Raku is still the one in her heart. But he doesn't know that does he? I can still change things. Maybe destiny gave me this chance to do something about our situation. I want to try!

"It's embarrassing to say, but my grandfather requested for me to bring a female friend to Tanabata. I don't know any girls since I came from an all-boys school, and since everyone was so busy except for Onodera-san, I asked her to come with me."

I saw him heave an obvious sigh of relief. He may think I'm just doing this out of duty and not because I have feelings for Onodera. Well, he is correct in thinking that it is out of duty, but also, I want to monopolize Onodera even if it's just for a day. Of course, I couldn't tell him that. If I were to reveal my feelings now, things wouldn't be the same as they are before. I want Raku to know my feelings someday, but it's not the right time.

"How about you, Raku? My grandfather didn't set Kirisaki-san and your family up with this did he?"

Raku gave me a tired grin. "He didn't… well, not personally. He requested my father to join the celebrations to tighten the bonds between the upper ground and underground functions that protects our prefecture, and that also includes the Beehive gang since they decided to take root here. But since our parents are busy with their own problems, and also to strengthen our relationship, my old man and Chitoge's old man set us up to go on a date here."

I chuckled as I emphatically placed a hand on his shoulder. "You have it hard too, don't you. Well, who knows, maybe you're going to hit it off with Kirisaki-san. You seem to be getting closer each day. And now that it's Tanabata, Hikoboshi and Orihime might just grant your wish~"

Raku didn't shrug me off and hissed like he normally did when I teased him with Kirisaki… which is a bit strange. He now had on a forlorn look. A look between confusion and sadness. It was like he was torn between two conflicting sides. I was about to address this when a member of the Household came rushing to my side.

"Your Highness! The traditional clothing for you is prepared as well. Please follow me."

"Well, then, I need to go change. See you later, Raku."

Seeing that expression Raku gave off hurdled my thoughts in a jumble. Ugh! I need to keep my focus and attention on one thing. And that's to make this day something that Onodera will never forget! Raku and Kirisaki may have come here together, but that won't keep them from sticking to each other, now that they know we're here too. Kirisaki will be bound to keep Onodera close, which would be devastating for my plans. Plus, when Onodera saw Raku earlier, I saw her blush a vivid crimson. I have to keep them apart at all costs! Damn it. Why did my grandfather have to invite those two?

I've begun planning for a successful date during the entire process of my kimono fitting, and oddly enough my eyes were fixed on a silly mask on the wall.

.-+-.

"I never knew wearing masks is a requirement for Tanabata."

Actually… it's not.

The girl I like was standing in front of me, ethereal in a white furisode with hand-painted sakura blossoms blooming across the pathway to the Old Imperial Palace and accentuated with gold embroidery that sparkled in the sun. It was like she wore a dress woven by Orihime herself.

Ahhh! I'm sorry, Onodera. It's an absolute sin to hide your cuteness under that mask, but I've no choice! If Raku or Kirisaki sees you, they will immediately take you away from me. That's why I had the entire Household gave out the notice to all those who are attending the festivities to wear masks within the vicinity. I know it's selfish of me… but… I really want to be with you today without any hindrances.

"It's a practice that only started after my grandfather has assumed the throne. He is a peculiar man." I laughed awkwardly. I do hope she doesn't see through my lie.

"I see. It is a bit unconventional, but if that's the rule then it can't be helped. Although, it would be difficult to find Chitoge-chan and Ichijou-kun if they're also wearing masks."

I bit my lip. Hard. "Don't worry, we're bound to run into them sooner or later. Shall we go ahead and visit the stalls? We have a lot of participants from sweet shops from all over the country this year."

I could almost imagine Onodera's face light up with a smile as she nodded. Ahh… If only I could see it now. It's a damn shame about the masks but I didn't have any option. It's a good thing I thought about it when I saw a mask hanging in the fitting room. I then immediately asked the seamstresses to explain to Onodera-san about the importance of the mask and have her separated from Kirisaki as soon she was done changing. Now, nobody could recognize the both of us~

The masks also benefits me as I wouldn't be known as a member of the Royal Family. I am now a regular guy lucky enough to go on a date with an extraordinary girl at a very fitting occasion. Only now did I realize that I wasn't looking at her from a distance anymore. In the past, I was merely watching from the sidelines as their entire group go on festivals and/or other celebrations such as visiting shrines on New Year. But, I am with her now. It was me who is standing by her side. I smiled as I saw a glimpse of her contented face behind the mask as she tested out the sweets from the stalls. It seems I levelled up a bit.

"Do you see him? Can you see him? Damn these masks! I can't find Raku-sama if everybody is wearing masks!"

Wait… that voice… Tachibana?

"It's kind of His Majesty to have invited us over, isn't he kind Iai?"

Yui-sensei?!

No… no, no, no, NO! What are they all doing here? Ugh… I forgot. For some reason, all the girls that surround Raku are bigshots! My grandfather must've sent out invitations to their parents as well! Panicking, I took Onodera by the hand and started to walk away from their voices. It's a good thing the stalls aren't as condensed as the ones in other towns. Since the shrine is inside the Imperial Palace, the Household had instructed the stall keepers to construct a mini fair just outside the Palace so that everybody could enjoy the festivities without actually disturbing the serenity inside the old castle.

Because of my anxiousness, I forgot that I was holding Onodera's warm hand and I beat myself over it when I did realize and I immediately withdrew my own hand out of embarrassment! Damn… If only there aren't so many hindrances then this would've been just a normal date!

"I'm s-sorry, Onodera-san. I thought you'd want to try the games here in this side of the castle."

She was about to respond when we heard a couple of hoots from a crowd nearby.

"Wow! Get a load of that guy! All bullseyes! He's been hogging all the grand prizes from the stalls~"

Curious, Onodera and I fought through the wall of people and found ourselves staring at a couple who was standing in front of a shooting game. I whistled as I watched the guy topple each toy that were mounted on the stands that were at least 10 meters away from the counter. From the precision and skill that he's showing, he must be used to handling a gun or a ranged weapon. I wonder if he's somebody I know from the archery competitions. I turned to ask Onodera if we could move on, but I noticed her gaze was fixed on the grand prize of the shooting game. My heart suddenly jumped from my chest. Finally, an opportunity I could use to show off my good side to her~

"Onodera-san, would you like to try the shooting game?"

Onodera flinched and then she anxiously made hand gestures signifying that she couldn't and that she would be bad at it. I chuckled as I patted her head. Little things like this seem to come natural to me now.

"Is it okay if I go and gave it a shot?"

She fervently nodded her head and tipped her mask just a little to show me an encouraging smile. Ahh! No prize can ever replace her smile~ With Onodera's blessing, there's no way this guy could outdo me. When I stepped forward, a roar of cheer suddenly echoed from behind the crowd. Tsk! I think a vein popped on my forehead. Those guys from the Household! I am trying to hide my identity and here they are making it obvious!

"What do we have here?! A contender! Who will win the Grand Prize? The tiger or the dragon?"

I stared at my opponent. Ohh~ He is indeed wearing a tiger's mask. How appropriate. In popular culture, the tiger and the dragon symbolizes the balance of power. The tiger's overwhelming power and the dragon's infinite wisdom makes up this equilibrium. Two each wildly different and yet not one can overpower the other. Heh. Let's put that to test shall we? I positioned myself in front of the table and took the toy gun from the stall keeper. Actually, I'm not used to toy guns since bow and arrows are what I'm familiar with; however, it's still the same concept. I'll use my skills as a renowned archer so I can claim the prize for Onodera. She's watching me. I can't mess this up!

"Okay, the first level is toppling these tiny toy soldiers. Ready, set, SHOOT!"

I positioned the gun on my arm and took aim. First shot, I grazed a toy soldier. What? It should've went down! My aim is on point. Why was I off? No matter, I still have time. I took a second shot, and finally the first toy soldier had toppled down. Phew! Okay, on to the next one! But before I took aim again, my eyes curiously strayed to my opponent who was standing a few feet from me. He had a very steady build and strangely familiar dark blue hair. My gaze went further to his targets and… he had toppled 5 already! I panicked. I had only hit my first one. Damn it! I have to take this seriously. If this continues, I won't be able to get that prize for Onodera!

A few minutes later, the first level was finally cleared and I was a few toy soldiers short from my opponent. I gritted my teeth in frustration. I've never showed such a pathetic display in any of my competitions before. I am really shocked and depressed by the results. But I can't make this loss get to me. I need to perform better!

"Congratulations to the tiger for winning the first level! Now, let's take it up a notch~ Second level is hitting the bulls eye on these moving targets!"

Oh! This is my specialty~ In Archery, there's this special event wherein we ride on horses and hit targets while on horseback. Well, the targets are not moving per se, but it has almost the similar notion. And now that I have a grasp at aiming using a gun, I believe I can do better this time! I mustn't avert my attention to anything else. I need to stay focus! This kind of challenge really strains the eyes, and I need to win this! After a grueling ten minutes of aiming and shooting, the victor was finally announced.

"Here, here! The dragon has finally rose to the top! Congratulations~ Now, we have a tie breaker folks! Who will be the overall champion? The tiger, or the dragon?"

Little did I know that our little challenge had attracted a very large crowd! When I looked back, I see banners of dragons from what I recognize as some unruly members of the Household. When I shook my head at them, they quieted down. There are also some people who cheered for the tiger, and there is one girl in particular who was so boisterous that she's a crowd on her own! Hey, wait a minute. Long flowing blonde hair with pink highlights at the tips. Isn't this… Kirisaki? So my opponent is…

I placed a hand on top of my mask as I chuckled, my shoulders shaking as I did.

"Are you okay, Owada-kun?"

Onodera had placed a gently hand on my shoulder, her voice filled with concern. I shook my head as I smiled down at her. I tipped my mask just so she is the only one who can see my face.

"I'm fine, Onodera-san. I will win for you, so please watch me closely."

When I saw her nod, I brought my mask down and positioned myself in front of the table. Now, for the third challenge. I need to win this, I have to!

"As for the last challenge… Get your glasses out because you need perfect vision to even complete it!" Everybody gasped and squinted their eyes when the stall keeper took out the last set. "First person to topple all of the match sticks wins the Grand Prize!"

Before I faced the table, I took an old bow and a quiver of arrows from a stall that was conveniently located beside the shooting stall. Everybody gasped and murmured amongst themselves because of this bold decision. Compared to the wide plastic pellets used with the toy guns, an arrow is narrower and has a bigger chance to miss a slender target. I didn't care. Archery is something that I'm confident in. If I'm holding a bow and arrow, I can achieve anything! I returned to my spot at the table and looked across to the guy who was now facing me. I know for sure that this is Ichijou Raku that's standing beside me. My rival, and now my opponent. I consider him a close friend, but I can't lose this challenge. I raised my fist to him, and even though he didn't know it was me, he bumped his fist with mine.

"Bravo! A wonderful show of the spirit of sportsmanship! Now~ Ready your weapons, set, SHOOOOOOOT!"

A/N: This was supposed to be a one part chapter but since it's not yet finished and I think the rest would be long, I separated the other part. I'm in the process of writing the rest so hopefully the next chapter would be uploaded soon!