To be With You One More Time
Chapter 5 - Darkness Inside The Two's Heart
WARNING: This chapter contains some gory descriptions of some characters death. It also contains some uncomfortable issues such as bullying and torture. PROCEED WITH CAUTION
A blonde girl silently observe the students at the arena below while she sat on the audience's bench leisurely. Her golden-colored irises rolled, scanning through the students bodies.
"Ah, found her!" her expression tensed the moment she spotted a girl with orange-haired girl. It was quite difficult looking for her in the crowds. But once her target was spotted, it would be easy for the blonde girl to track her.
"So it was true..." the blonde mumbled to herself when she noticed that a golden-furred fox tailing the said orange-haired girl. "I'm surprised despite being a cursed child, you finally capable of summoning your own guardian spirit, Chikacchi."
The blonde didn't move from her position. She was still carefully eyeing the orange-haired girl despite sitting leisurely on the bench. "Interesting, Chikacchi... Interesting..." An image of the said orange-haired girl successfully performing a 'Soul Release' perfectly on her first try now reflected on the blonde's eyes. "Taiyouji..." her lips slowly spelled the name carefully. "The Sun's Shrine, eh? Truly a befitting name... Genius." the blonde smiled mischievously,. There was a hint of amusement in her voice.
"I guess I'll try pulling out something here..." the blonde mused. Her hand reached something in her pocket before pulling it out, revealing a purple colored phone on her hand. She quickly typed something on the screen before sending it.
"Let's see what's that 'Soul Release' of yours capable of, Chikacchi..." a grin appeared on the blonde's face when she noticed that her phone screen showed her a notification: 'Email sent: Kiyo Zako'.
Putting her phone back, her golden-colored irises then moved to the two girls beside the orange-haired girl. Her golden-colored irises was fixated towards the red-haired girl and ashen-haired girl.
"Impossible!"
"Rikocchi?! And You too?"
No, her eyes must had play some tricks on her. There was no way that the two girls she used to know being here. They were probably someone else.
Unfortunately, the fact said otherwise. Some minutes later, her question was answered. It was thanks to the first round of the sparring that the blonde saw everything.
Those rabbit and buffalo guardian spirits, not to mention those 'Soul Release'. There was no mistake. they were clearly Kaguyamori and Shiranui.
There was no doubt, the girls who stood against each other on the arena was surely the one she knew.
But there was one question left bothering in the blonde's mind: "how are they supposed to be here?"
Those two should have died twelve years ago.
Then, if those two had really died, who are the two girls she saw? Why those two had the same guardian spirits, not to mention the exact same 'Soul Release' with the two deceased girls she knew?
Guardian spirits could make pact from one people to another as long as the previous pact had rendered null. But a 'Soul Release' was given form by the wielder's subconscious trauma or dark past, making it unique. Thus, no one would have the exact same 'Soul Release' even if the same spirit made a pact with two different person on different time.
"Oh! So you're here, Mari..." the blonde was still in a deep thought when a familiar voice called to her. It was a girl with long black hair. a portion of her hair was tied into a small bun on the right part.
"Ara! Yoshiko-chan!"
"It's Yohane!" The black-haired girl protested. But it was completely ignored by the blonde girl. "Mou! How many time I should remind you about that?!"
"Alright… Alright, Yoshiko-chan!"
The black haired girl realized that there would be no end if she kept responding to the blonde's teasing. So, she just let it slide for now and went to the main topic. "So, what's make you called me here? You better make it quick, I'm busy!"
"Come here! Just see it by yourself, Yoshiko-chan." The blonde pulled the black haired girl to the railguards near where the blonde sitting. She then pointed towards the very same orange-haired girl's direction.
"..." the black haired girl looked to the pointed direction. An irritated look appeared on her expression as she saw the orange-haired girl the blonde's pointed.
"You just made me wasting my time, Mari. I don't have any interest if it's about a certain orange-head having her newly summoned fox spirit." she grumbled.
"I'll be going now!" the black haired girl was going to leave. But she was stopped by the blonde's taunt.
"Aaah, you dissapointed me, Yoshiko-chan."
"Wha-"
"Look more carefully!"
The blonde in front of the black haired girl was rarely serious, but it wasn't mean that she actually never being serious. It's just part of the blonde's character that made her like that. The black haired girl, already knowing the blonde's behaviour decide to look once again. only then the black-haired girl realized that the orange-haired girl was accompanied by two other girls. Her eyes widened seeing them.
"Riri…"
"You-chan….?!"
"Impossible!"
Without warning, her fist already slammed the rail.
"What's the meaning of this, Mari?!" she questioned her blonde friend in a tone of distaste. "They were supposedly dead twelve years ago!."
The black haired girl stared the second time towards the two girls. It was simply impossible, they had died.
But they stood on the arena below her. She clearly saw them with her own eyes.
"I don't know either to tell the truth, Yoshiko-chan."
"So, what do you think?" the blonde nudged her elbow to the black-haired girl's side.
"Are you sure that it's really them?"
"To tell the truth, it felt like someone tried to make a fool out of me when I got the information from my underlings. But well you saw them yourself, right?"
"Do you think that they are fake, Yoshiko-chan?" the blonde asked back.
"How? They should have died twelve years ago!" the black haired girl started to lose her composure.
"I don't know!"
"...I see." The black-haired girl returned to her previous calm demeanor slowly, realizing that getting agitated won't answer her question. "So, what's your plan now?"
"Let's just observe for now. I already asked one of my underling to challenge Chikacchi on a one on one duel. I have some plans after that."
"...Fine, Mari."
oOo
I can't believe what I just heard. Why she choose me of all people?! Shouldn't she choose someone who has more experience than me? At this rate I'll lose ten seconds into the match!
"Kiyo-san, I think it's better to choose a different opponent. It's the first time Takami-san can perform her Soul Release after all."
Sensei how thoughtful! Yeah please don't make me duel her… Kiyo-san was really strong. She was one of the few who could fight toe on toe against the third years. I even heard that she was able to defeat a stray spirit by herself.
"I think it's no problem, sensei... Takami-san is able to perform Soul Release right after her first time summoning, not to mention doing it perfectly on her first try. As you know not many people are able to do Soul Release perfectly, even Yoshiko-san who was the best among the first years was only able performing a proper 'Soul Release' after training intensely."
"Considering that, I think there's no problem if Takami-san has a sparring session with me. it will be a good experience for Takami-san too. Don't you agree everyone?"
"Yea there's no problem at all."
"Beat her Kiyo-san!"
"Show her who's boss."
Suddenly almost the whole class shouted, showing their support to Kiyo-san. Uuu why nobody support me. Am I hated that much? Looking for support I tearfully look at Riko and You.
"I think there's no problem right Riko-chan? Well I feel sorry for Chika-chan's sparring partner though." With relaxed expression, You blurted.
I could only stand there, jaw hanged open upon hearing You. Dammit You-chan! I thought we were friends?!
But Riko chan should support me right? Filled with hope, I took a glance to the red-haired girl, only to find Riko-chan struggling to keep her calm posture. Her her hands covering her mouth, trying to hold her laughter.
"Fufufu….. what?!" realizing that I looked at her, the red-haired girl returned to her calm self. "Yeah, I think there's no problem at all, Chika-chan."
"Nooooo… Not you too, Riko-chan!" I shouted in desperation as my last hope slowly crumbling away.
"Well, I have one advice for you though, Chika-chan."
"Really?! As expected from Riko-chan! please tell me!" I eagerly listened to the red-haired girl, hope slowly returned to me.
"Don't overdo it okay, please hold back yourself so you won't harm anyone, fufu..." the red-haired girl's eyes turned dark as she gave me her advice.
I can't believe this. since when my two friends became traitors like this?! Slumped in despair while the teacher announced my supposed judgement.
"Well since everyone agrees and Kiyo-san also make a valid point... Kiyo-san, Takami-san, please enter the arena!"
The execution time finally came. Standing up still holding my ornate dagger, I wobbly moved forward to the stage.
oOo
"You can start after the countdown. Any question before we start Kiyo-san, Takami-san?"
"No, miss…" Both Kiyo-san and I affirmed. We stood right at the center of the arena facing each other with only several meters of space separating us. A ground tortoise standing on its four legs beside Kiyo-san. It was mainly brown in color, but its carapace was partially covered by black colored-moss. A small amount of purplish aura was constantly released from it.
"If you two have no question, then let's proceed. Please perform your 'Soul Release' first."
"Sheroni!" Kiyo-san only nodded before calling her guardian spirit's name to perform her 'Soul Release'. I stood there, carefully observing her since I had not cancelled my 'Soul Release' yet after the first time I successfully doing it.
"Prepare yourself, Takami-san!" Kiyo-san hissed after completing her 'Soul Release'. Her tortoise spirit now changed itself into a set of gauntlets and boots. Both gauntlets and boots were constructed by several hexagonal metal-like material that almost overlapped each other. A purplish aura enveloping her. That aura signified that her body had enhanced with her spirit power. Now she couldn't be hurt by normal means.
"On my mark!"
"3…"
"2…"
"1!"
Without a warning she suddenly dashed forward before appearing right in front of my face and delivered a punch right in my guts.
COUGH!
What a speed, I couldn't even see her when she closing on me. Unable to guard, my body flew backwards hitting the arena's edges.
"Here it is, Kiyo-san flash punch, if you're not prepared you wouldn't be able to stand up again."
"Kiyo-san! so cool..."
I could hear some of my classmates cheering for Kiyo-san. But something made me confused. She was one of the best when it came to fighting with spirits. It was even a general knowledge in this school that her single punch was enough to obliterate a stray spirit that was hit by her. But…
Does people overestimate her power? Or she went easy on me?
I got flown backwards because of her punch, but it didn't hurt that much. the only thing that I felt was nothing more than dizzy as I groggily tried to stand up again.
"Huh?!" It seemed everyone was shocked when they saw I was slowly trying to stand again, even Kiyo-san herself was surprised as if she was had seen a ghost.
"How are you still able to stand up. My full powered fist always makes the opponent fall." she said. I don't know I didn't even feel a scratch right now.
"I didn't feel anything from that, is that really your full power?"
TWITCH
Uh oh, I think I saw her veins popping out. It seemed that I was accidentally made her really mad as more purplish aura enveloped her fist and body.
Please stop it! if you truly used your full power I'll surely die! I couldnt even wrap myself with spirit aura like Kiyo-san did.
"You have the nerve to say something like that for a cursed girl, Takami-san."
"PREPARE YOURSELF!"
The aura that covered her body flared briliantly. Without warning she suddenly appeared in front of me again, trying to deliver another punch. But it was a mistake on her side. I already saw it before and had prepared for it. I was able to dodge this time by ducking under her at the last second. But then she attacked me again and again.
I tried to dodge all of it. some managed to score on my body though. But somehow it was like her first blow. None of them caused damage to me.
Still, it was scary seeing those relentless fists rained down on you from any possible angle.
Why are you so serious Kiyo-san? Please give me a break! I'm only able to do my first Soul Release less than thirty minutes ago you know.
While trying my hardest to dodge, I took a glance around my surrounding when I had the chance. Most of my classmates still cheering for Kiyo-san, although now some of them were amazed that I could hold my standing against the more experienced Kiyo-san.
But of course there were two people who stood out more from the rest since they laughed instead.
"Ahahahaha… I can't stand it anymore! It's seriously funny seeing someone doing the same futile thing over and over again. Even donkey didn't fall into the same hole twice. Ooh! she tried punching her again, even looking Chika-chan bouncing around is funny. Ouch! my stomach hurts!."
Grrrr! You-chan why are you laughing at a time like this?! Can you believe it, her friend is in danger and she's laughing? Now she's even rolling on the ground while holding her stomach. You-chan you traitor!
"Fufu… You chan you shouldn't laugh at her like that. Fufufu… at least she's trying her best. Pfffffttt I gotta admit seeing Chika-chan bouncing around trying to dodge those incoming blows is indeed funny. Perharps I should ask her to be my target practice sometime."
WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT RIKO CHAN!? Are you seriously thinking of making me your target practice?! Are you sadist?! Even her pose and her darkened eyes now looked like an evil boss you faced in games.
Suddenly I realized I wasn't being chased anymore. When I looked for Kiyo-san, it seemed she stopped a while back. Her body trembling.
"You dare make me become a laughing stock like this!? Unforgivable! Die!"
As she roared, her left gauntlet and boots disappeared. Then, her right gauntlet suddenly grew in size. the purplish aura that covered her whole body was no more. Instead, she focused all of them to the gauntlet on her right hand.
Wait is she trying to hit me with that? If it hits me I'll die for sure!
"Don't just lay there and laugh you two, help me!" I asked for help from the two traitors who still laughing on the sideline hoping that at least one of them would help me.
"Eeeeehh it's more fun being spectator like this, Chika-chan… So, nope!" Of course You just being You answered like that.
"Riko-chan please… At least give me some advice!"
"I actually prefer to stay and watch like this. But it's getting boring. So, here's a piece of advice for you, Chika-chan..."
I smiled hearing Riko-chan's response. Well, at least she was still on my side, unlike that ash-haired traitor.
"Try to believe in your spirit… Just launch yourself forward and stab her ufufu."
And there goes my last hope. Gone into the sinkhole by the sadist queen.
"PREPARE YOURSELF TAKAMI!"
I turned my head to Kiyo-san again. Why that fist getting even bigger. And she coming. Ugh! no choice I would just believe in what Riko chan said and move forward.
"YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH"
Gripping Taiyouji on my hands, I closed my eyes then rushed forward before Thrusting it.
"IS THAT YOUR DESPERATE ATTEMPT TAKAMI!? SO BE IT, I'LL CRUSH YOU AND THAT PUNY DAGGER!"
I didn't hear anything, I didn't hear anything! Encouraging myself I rushed forward believing what Riko said.
CRACK
"wha…."
"..."
Hmmmm!? Was there a glass broken somewhere? several seconds passed. But the judgement blow never came while my body was still moving forward because of the inertia. I accidentally tripped on something on the ground midway, causing my body to fall forward.
"Ouch! What was that?" I complained while slowly opening my eyes again. what reflected on my red-colored eyes was something I never expected.
What lied under my stumbled body was Kiyo-san herself. The pointed edge of Taiyouji was pressed onto her chest, but somehow it didn't even made any scratch on her skin. She was unconscious now though.
"Kiyo-san?!" I called her name, trying to wake her up. before I realized my surrounding, a lot of my classmates and the teacher hurriedly came to our side.
The teacher quickly reached Kiyo's wrist for her pulse and checked her breathing. A relief washed over her face when she could feel both the girl's pulse and breathing. "She's fine… just falling unconscious as the effect of the spar's aftermath."
"What happened?" The teacher only stared at me, agaped hearing my question.
"...You didn't know what you've done, Takami-san?" I only shook my head. What I did before was only closing my eyes while pointing Taiyouji forward, so I didn't know what truly happened.
The teacher gave a long sigh before she told me what I've done. "You basically stabbed her 'Soul Release'; her gauntlet using your own. and somehow your 'Soul Release'; that ornate dagger on your hands pierced it like a hot knife stabbed into a butter."
I did all this?
"Uhh… what happened?" a weak voice came out from Kiyo-san's mouth. it seemed that finally she regained her consciousness back after the teacher tried to shake her body.
"Takami-san pierced your 'Soul Release' using her own, breaking yours with a single stab." the teacher explained the second time. Kiyo-san could only stare with widened eyes hearing the explanation."
"In short, Takami-san won this round."
"Impossible! I can't accept this!" she growled as she tried to stand up. "How could a cursed child like her beat me?! There must be something wrong with this match!"
"No, Kiyo-san. Takami-san fought you fair and square. Her 'Soul Release' probably only took the appearance of a small ritual dagger. But no one know what power it hold, also I'd like to remind you to never call your own classmate with something like 'cursed child' anymore!" the teacher warned.
"To hell with that! Takami, I want a rematch now!"
You kidding me? I didn't even knew why I win and she already tried to challenge me again!?
"Kiyo-san you're acting like a kid now, stop it before I sent you to the detention room!"
"Likehell I care, sensei! COME FORTH SHERONI!"
Kiyo-san brings out her summoning paper once again, leaving me with no choice but entered my stance again.
But after a while nothing came out, not even the smoke. Clearly having no idea about what happened with her summoning, Kiyo-san could only stare in confusion.
"This can't be... Sheroni, COME OUT! ANSWER ME, SHERONI!" No matter how many times she tried her tortoise spirit didn't come.
"It's enough, Kiyo-san? Please stop now."
She said all that while patting Kiyo san back. Sensei how could you be so kind?
"SHUT UP!"
SLAP!
She slapped the teacher's hand hard. With a pair of bloodshot eyes she roared at me.
"THIS IS ALL YOUR FAULT TAKAMI! YOU GODDAMN CURSED CHILD, YOU SHOULDN'T EVEN BE ALIVE, DIE!"
She leaped at me, right hand balled into a fist. She tried to hit me barehandedly. I could only close my eyes reflexively. But out of sudden...
Thud
with swift movement, the teacher grabbed Kiyo-san kimono before throwing her to ground hardly..
"ENOUGH KIYO SAN, YOU'RE COMING WITH ME TO DETENTION ROOM NOW. Aida-san please take care of the rest."
"Okay Mimori-san."
Suddenly I realized even miss Aida's group was already here. Well after such ruckus no wonder they would be here.
Nobody said anything while Kiyo-san was dragged out. I still couldn't believe what I did but I feel bad for Kiyo-san. I didn't know why she hated me that much.
If only I didn't have this eyes and tatoo.
If only things were different maybe we could be friends.
"Alright class, now is self study period in group of three. You all will be allowed to go home when it's 4 o'clock. I'll be here in case you need something, okay."
With Aida-san's word everyone silently grouping up and began their own practice.
oOo
"AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA, Brilliant Chikachi. You never cease to amaze me don't you."
The two girl from before still sitting on the bench at the far side seeing everything unfold from the beginning. Well it's more like one person is laughing and the other silently getting annoyed at her.
"Enough Mari, it's time you told me what happened."
"Hehehe….. what's there to explain yoshiko-chan?"
"IT'S YOHANE. Now stop laughing and tell me."
Trying her hardest to stop her laughter. Mari started to explain.
"Aaah I'm tired. So why Chikachi wins? Simple it's because her 'Soul Release' is a real deal."
"Even I knew that, but she didn't even show any aura enveloping her body or her weapon. How the hell a 'Soul Release', true or not broke another without showing its aura."
"That's where you're wrong Yoshiko-chan *YOHANE*, the aura was there, you just didn't notice it."
"Huh? Where? I'm not that good at observation technique, but even something like that shouldn't be missed by my eyes."
"Aaah you really didn't notice it, huh. The aura was there. It was dense but thin enough. It should be even thinner than a layer of paper if I must say ."
"wha….." in shock the black haired girl could only open her mouth.
"It's her ability. Chikacchi could compress spiritual energy flowing inside her to its utmost limit. That way the aura she produced becoming a solid wall thinner than a layer of paper. It was solid enough to block powerful spirit related attack, but thin enough to be missed by naked eyes. That's why Zako-chan's attack never hurted her. You need a true soul release level of spiritual power to be able to actually break her spiritual layer.
Regarding how she broke Zako-chan's gauntlet, she was also able to condense all of her aura to her dagger tip, although judging from Chikacchi's expression she did it without realizing it.
Just imagine how sharp that blade is if that much aura is condensed at the very tip. At least I knew most spirit won't last Yoshiko-chan." After explaining that much Mari began to giggle again.
"Ehehehehe as expected of Chikachi. And she did all of that subconsciously. Just how deep is her talent?"
The black haired girl could only shudder in terror realizing just how outrageus that orange-haired girl is. But then something caught her attention.
"But then why didn't her dagger didn't pierce Zako's skin?"
"As for that part, I'm not really sure either but I could make some guess. Considering the fact Zako-chan cannot summon her spirit afterward, that dagger should be able to cut her spirit flow."
"So it seems Chikachi dagger cannot cut living things but able to bypass it to cut its spiritual flow. Amazing as always. She never cease to amaze me my little Chikachi." the blonde nod in content.
"...I see." the black haired girl only nodded."
"You've seen everything. Now, what are you planning to do, Mari?"
Mari didn't reply. But the devious grin on the blonde's face was more than an answer for the black-haired girl.
oOo
"It's 4 o'clock already, All of you may dismiss now…" Announced Aida-san after she checked on her watch.
"Finally… Riko-chan, You-chan. Let's take our bag in the class first before going home!" Chika called her two friends after finished changing back to her black sailor uniform.
"Coming, Chika-chan!" the two responded. But suddenly some girls gather around them.
"Watanabe-san you're so cool back then, would you mind teaching me?"
"Sakurauchi-san you look so graceful while blocking Watanabe-san attack. Please teach us how to do it."
"Please teach me how to do 'Soul Release' properly too."
"Me too, me too!"
Suddenly a group of girls flock together around You and Riko. They're really awesome, it's not even a day and everybody already admire them. Though it seems they look quite troubled.
"We'd love to, but sorry…" hesitantly, Riko declined the girls request. "You-chan and I already promised to go home together with Chika-chan now."
The girls surrounded You and Riko showed a dejected look when they heard Riko's answer. An awkward laugh coming from You-chan. "Ahaha… sorry girls…'
"Actually, I don't really mind if you two teach them Riko-chan, You-chan!"
"Chika-chan!" the two girls tried to protest.
"It's okay! I don't mind, really." I gave them a sincere answer. "I'm feeling really bad if I'm the only one who's improving. They seem to be very eager to learn too, You-chan, Riko-chan."
"Beside we can walk home together another time."
"...If Chika-chan says so." at last, the two girls gave up their rebuttal, although there was a hint of hesitation in their voice.
"Then… I'll see you tomorrow Riko-chan, You-chan!"
oOo
I walked slowly towards my class alone. There was no one in the corridor since most students already going home at this time. I looked to the windows on my right, still approaching my class at the far end of this corridor. The vermilion color of the sunset went through the windows and permeated on my skin, giving me a comfortable warm feeling.
'Weird…' You and Riko had just transferred today. I was getting used being alone for years. Yet, it felt like something missing when the two girls weren't with me. Yes, I know that I actually lived with them for the last twelve years. But it was just yesterday that they showed up in their human form.
It felt like that I subconsciously knew more about them before.
"Ugh! get yourself together, Chika!" I shook my head. Maybe I should ask about it to You-chan and Riko-chan tomorrow… finally reaching where my class was, I reached the door's knob and opened it.
I could only stand in shock seeing what was inside.
Two desks and chairs at the most back row were broken. Some of the woods smashed to bits. Even the metal frames were horribly bent.
I approached in alarm when I realized that those broken desks were actually You and Riko's. This is horrible! Why some people love doing this?!
Without waiting for any more second, I took my bag and decided to look for the two girls.
But I stopped on my track as I noticed a small folded paper was attached to my bag.
"Huh?! What's this?" I took the paper before carefully unfolding it.
To: Takami
Thank you for allowing us to 'have fun' with Watanabe-san and Sakurauchi-san at the dock. We feel bad for not telling you truth, but we need to give the two transfer students a lesson or two for siding with a cursed child like you. I hope you'll understand.
Before I knew it, I quickly broke into run.
So the crowds from before was actually a trap to separate us? Why are they doing this? Is this also my fault since the two associated with me? Many thoughts circling in my head, but all of them quickly got drowned by one thoughts.
I need to save them. I didn't think about anything else. The only thing in my mind was You and Riko's safety.
Yes, I knew that the two girls were actually strong. The two easily beaten four stray spirits at once after all. But it was a complete different case. There was no way that the two would go all out only to fight those bullies, right?
"I shouldn't have befriend them, should I?" tears coming out from my eyes, my words were filled with regret. I knew nobody should ever be friend with me or they would face disaster like before. But when they came for me, when they said I'm their friend. Oh Amaterasu-sama couldn't I have hoped for a normal happy live once?
But it was too late for regrets, the only thing I could do was trying to stop them from harming You and Riko.
oOo
Pant… pant… pant…
After fifteen minutes of non-stop running I reached the dock. My uniform was wet, drenched in my own sweat. I was exhausted, mouth rapidly gasping for more air.
"Kyuuuu…" Mikan grazed its snout to my left leg as it sensed my distress. I summoned it when I was halfway to this place in case something unexpected happened. Knowing the bullies, they won't hesitate to use their Guardian Spirits now since You and Riko were their target.
"I'm fine, Mikan…"
My breath was slowly becoming more regular as more time passed. I looked around the docks in hope to find Riko and You.
"Riko-chan?! You-chan?!"
No answer.
Weird… based on that letter, they supposedly brought the two girls here.
I walked around carefully, Mikan still tailing from behind. Its tail was raised, a sign that it was actually on alert. There must be something wrong here.
As if my cue was right, a blast of spiritual energy was suddenly launched towards me out of nowhere.
"Got her!" an unfamiliar voice cheered proudly as the spiritual energy exploded right on where I stood.
"Idiot!" another unfamiliar voice. "There's no way she would go down easily in one hit! You heard it yourself from the boss right?! She tanked that Kiyo's flash punch and not even a single scratch grazed her remember?!"
"Yea it's true, but there's no way that she'll survive that blast. Unlike when facing Kiyo, this time she's unprepared!" the first unfamiliar voice retored.
"Whatever!"
"Now, our work here is finished… Let's just contact the boss and go home!"
"Wait!"
My voice reverberated from behind the slowly diminished smoke caused by the previous blast. some moment later, the smoke dissipated completely by the wind, revealing my unscratched figure. Mikan was already on my right hand, transformed into its 'Soul Release' form: Taiyouji.
"Where're Riko-chan and You-chan?!" I demanded. The figure of my assailants refelected on my eyes. They were some girls, wearing the same black colored sailor uniform and white tie like mine. But to tell the truth, I didn't really know them. the only thing I was sure that some of them were from another class while three of them were actually upperclassmen.
"We don't know…" the answer was simple and short. It came from one of the upperclassmen. "We just ordered to wait here and beat you up when you come." She glared at me with disgust and hatred.
"Then… that paper?"
A laugh suddenly erupted from the other girls. "Are you stupid or what, Takami-san?" one of them taunted me.
"What?"
The bunch of girls only laughed harder after hearing my response. "Oh my! You really don't realized it, do you?"
"You really such an idiot, Takami-san! Coming here without realizing it was actually a trap prepared specifically for you."
"Of course we are not stupid enough to put ourselves in danger by facing Watanabe and Sakurauchi. It was clear! Anyone who trained to become monks or summoners would immediately notice that they actually possesses great amount of spiritual power despite their age. Even if the two holding back they would still be able to beat anyone in the school easily."
"The real target was actually you! Our friends were intentionally came to you three, asking the two to teach them so that they could separate them from you and stall the two girls as long as possible."
"And look! You easily fall to our trap just by a single letter saying that we actually planned to harm your two new friends… What an idiot! Ahaha… Ahahahaha!"
"Now you already know everything, prepare yourself Takami!"
All the girls in front of me, already armed with their own 'Soul Release' Ready to come at me anytime.
"I see so that's what actually happened."
Feeling my body relaxed. I disarmed my 'Soul Release', Mikan panickly looked at me. What a perceptive spirit, Mikan already knew what I thought. Sorry, this is my own problem. Not You-can, Riko-chan, or you Mikan. Steeling my determination, I de-summon Mikan prepared to accept whatever they will do to me.
"What are you planning Takami? Are you underestimating us?"
One of them said that in disgust to me. When I look around actually all of them stopped in their tracks with an expression of disgust.
"You girls only have problem with me right? Then go ahead, beat me up all you wish. It's a small price to pay for my friend safety."
Confidently accepting my fate, I said those words to them. All of them looks surprised then broke into laughter. Then one by one come closer nearing me, suddenly one of them punched me straight in the gut. I lurched back on reflex, pain spreading on my stomach. Gleefully one of them said.
"Then this much is fine right?"
"O-Of course! As long as you don't lay hands on my two friends."
As I said that, all of them started to laugh again. Jeering words could be heard from every direction. Without warning I was kicked down to the floor.
"Then let's do it without any hesitation! Prepare yourself you cursed child!"
All of them started to beat me up. I lost count how many times they punched and kicked me. They also got me back up again only to make my body as punching bag before kicked me down to the ground again. Naturally my body felt hurt. My vision blurred as blood trickling down. I think my head bleed from hitting the ground repeatedly. It felt like other part of my body also bleeding too. It really hurts, but if it was for You and Riko, for my two friends that side with me when nobody will, I gladly die for them.
Some time passed, I cannot even felt pain anymore. All of my body were bruised and bleeding. My vision blurred and I can't even open my left eye. Hell I can't even felt anything from my arms and legs. Naturally I can't move them either. This time, it might be quite bad, I might actually die this time.
"This is getting boring, let's just kill her and finish this."
After their leader said that, I felt my body lifted up. Through my blurry eyes I saw their leader drawing a knife from her pocket.
Ah so I'll die today. I felt sorry for mom and sis but maybe this is for the best.
"I hope you haven't forgotten your deeds killing four of our friends. Just think of this as your payback."
Four friends? Was she talking about the four bullies who was dead from the stray spirits yesterday? It was actually stray spirits who killed them but it might very well caused by me since I was the one whose attracting those spirits thanks to this curse on me. Yeah, maybe this was my payback for being born cursed.
Silently accepting my fate, I tried to close my eyes when suddenly I hear a wind blowing.
WHACK, POW, THUMP
I heard something being kicked and punched. Then I felt the grip on me loosen, without anything to support my already weakened leg I fell down. Warm hands supporting me from behind, preventing my body from falling. Trying my hardest to open my eyes again I saw two figures supported me…
"You….chan….? Riko….chan….?"
My two friends, they were here. They came for me. Even though I already accepted my fate they came again to save me. It seemed like You-chan rushed here to beat the bully whose about to kill me, now they're lying flat on the ground. Riko-chan gently put me down and check for my injuries.
"How's her wound Riko-chan?"
"It's quite bad, we're lucky we could catch up. If we were late by several seconds, I don't think my spell would be enough. If it's just this much though I think I could cool of her bleeding and bruises then boost her spiritual energy with mine so her body will heal up faster."
"But seeing her injuries I still need to bandage her up. At the very least she won't die."
"I see, that's a relief."
Why, why would you girls come here? this is a trap. Please just run away. Please just forget about me. I tried my hardest to vocalize my thoughts although the result was only a small mutter.
"Why….. Riko..chan…..You….chan?"
"We are your friends Chika-chan."
Tears welled up in my eyes. Just one sentence and it already spoke million words. They woudn't abandon me. They didn't even care about who I am.
I didn't even remember my past with them but even so they still stood by my side even though everyone else hated me.
"sniff... sniff..."
I could only cry into Riko's bosom. Reacting to that, she gently rub my head like a mother. For the very first time since that incident. I truly felt glad to be alive. To have someone who really cared for me.
"Are you girls stupid? Why are you siding with a cursed child like her. She killed people you know? Even four of our friends dead because of her. Why are you siding with her?"
Looking back to You, I could see them starting to get up trying to surround the ash-haired girl.
Hearing those words You-chan could only sighed in disbelief.
"Are those ears only serve as decoration? I already said it, we are Chika-chan friends. And as a friends it's normal to be with her whatever the situation is.
"I could care less if Chika-chan was a cursed child or death child or hell's child whatever. What I know is, Chika-chan is a good natured girl, always putting other before herself. She's a girl whose smiles is as bright as the sun. She already saved us once and we'll do anything to repay what Chika-chan did to us."
"Even if Chika-chan couldn't even say 'save me' because she value us higher than her own life. It's our job to save her from bastards like you."
I could feel warmth began enveloping my chest. I actually have two people who cared for me this much? My tears started to fell down again.
Noticing what they say won't even budge You-chan, each of them summoned their guardian spirit and Soul Release them.
"I see, then prepare to die with that cursed child."
In response, You quickly summoned Akitu then transformed it into her Shiranui. This is bad, even though You was strong, fighting all of them alone was definitely suicide. Trying to summon Mikan, I felt another hand hold me back.
"What are you doing Chika-chan, you're going to open your wounds."
Riko-chan gently held me back then started to cool my injury while infusing my body with spirit power to help my healing. "Why are you not helping her Riko-chan? Even though it's You-chan, she won't last against them. Noticing my concerns, Riko place her finger on my lip.
"I knew what you're thinking Chika-chan but relax, You-chan and I are actually far stronger than them."
Huh?
"FIFTH KAGURA, WHIRLWIND DANCE."
As she said those words, You-chan disappeared from view. Only her silhouette in view dashing around like whirlwind decimating her foes. Not even five seconds passed since she called her technique. All of the bullies already lying flat on the floor unconscious, their Soul Release broken.
"Chika-chan are you alright?"
"You-chan!"
My voice was barely came out of my mouth. For a moment I shifted my glance from the ashen-haired girl to the pile of unconscious bodies behind her.
"Ah, rest assured Chika-chan!" the ash-haired girl laughed. "They just fell unconscious. I might overexert my power against them, but I only used the blunt side of Shiranui to knock them out. No one is harmed…"
"Thank you, You-chan, Riko-chan…" I was glad that the two actually held themselves back despite what the bullies had done to me. Truly I have gained the best friend I could have hoped.
"Let's go home, Chika-chan!"
oOo
"Chika-chan, We've arrived!" Riko gently nudged on my shoulders, waking me up in the process. You had insisted that she would piggyback me until we reached my home. I was fell asleep haflway, exhausted.
"Mhhhm~" I weakly nodded. "Thank you for accompanying me you two… You-chan, you can drop me here. I'll be fine by myself now."
"No, Chika-chan!" the ash-haired girl immediately rejected my request.
"You're in no shape for walking by yourself! We'll accompany you until you reached your bedroom."
"B-but…"
"We insist, Chika-chan…" It was Riko this time. I was going to refuse their offer again, but immediately shut my mouth when I saw a darkened smile appeared on the red-haired girl's expression.
"O-Okaaay…" my words was stuttered. Riko-chan was surely scary when she put on that darkened expression.
"We're home!" You announced before opening the door and letting the three of us come in.
WAIT?! WE?
"Welcome back!" a reply came from the kitchen. Not long after that the small figure of my mother revealed herself and welcomed us. She was a bit horrified when she noticed my condition though.
"What happened?!" She worriedly approaching me, still piggybacked by You. A small gasp heard from her when she noticed that some parts of my body was covered by bandage.
"Sorry mom, something happened and I got involved with a small accident…" I lied. but it was a white lie. I didn't want to burden my mother with my own problem.
She stared deeply to me for some time, implying that she actually knew that I lied to her. But at the end she just sighed, probably letting it slide. "You need to be more careful next time, Chika!"
"Ahaha…. Yes mom… I'll keep that in mind."
She then set her glance from me towards You and Riko.
"And thank you for helping Chika, Riko-chan, You-chan! It must be tiring, especially for you, You-chan to piggyback Chika all the way to her home." my mother bowed to the two
"Wait?! Mom, You know You-chan and Riko-chan already?"
She blinked once before realized about something.
"Ah sorry Chika, it seems that I forgot to tell you this morning that starting from today You-chan and Riko-chan will live with us."
"...EEEEH?!"
oOo
"Mou! Why you two didn't tell me sooner that we're actually cousins?!" I complained. It was eight o'clock. Several hours had been passed since the incident. The two only smiled gleefully, sitting on the side of my bed near where my body rested now.
"Say, Riko-chan… You-chan…"
"Yes, Chika-chan?"
"It's not like you two actually put my family under some sort of hypnosis spell, making them think that you two are actually my cousins, right?" I asked the two halfjokingly while my mind still wondering upon the revelation. Mother said that You and Riko were actually the distant niece of her.
"…." You and Riko only blinked before looking at each other.
They did?!
"Ah! please don't take it seriously! It was a joke, really!"
"It's fine Chika-chan… to tell the truth, we wish that we could do so, so that we could be always together…" Riko sincerely answered. "But we couldn't…"
"Why?"
"Riko-chan do know several spells to hypnotize people. But it won't work on your mother, Chika-chan… She might be retired now, but she's still a great summoner an monk on a league of her own, remember?" You added.
"Ah… I see…"
"Beside even if it works on her, it would be useless…"
"She know us after all…"
I was going to ask what the two girl mean. But before I could do so, Mito-nee calling from the first floor.
"Bakachika! Dinner is ready! Get your ass down here before the soup turns cold!"
"Ahahahaha… We better hurry now, You-chan, Riko-chan…" I shruddered hearing Mito-nee's roaring call. I slowly trying to stand, You and Riko quickly reached my hand, slowly assisting me to sit before proceeding to stand. "let's go down for dinner."
Dinner went smoothly as usual, if not more cheerful thanks to You and Riko's presence. Mito-nee chattering with You. She laughed when Mito-nee told her the story when she worked in Numazu. Riko on the other hand talking with Shima-nee, probably about how Tokyo condition right now.
"Ara Ara! Dinner tonight seems more lively than usual…" my mother who sat beside me commented. She then took a cup of tea before slowly drink it.
"Yeah…"
"Our usual dinner is lively, but it's more cheerful now…" I nodded while looking on my surrounding. All of this laughter and happiness...
"Riko-chan, You-chan! Wanna take a bath together after this? We can use the hotspring together." I asked them when dinner was almost finished. It would be a good time for relaxation, beside it also would be a good chance to know the two girls more.
"We'd like too Chika-chan, but there's something Riko-chan and I need to take care of first…" You sadly declined my offer.
"Aww…"
"if you don't mind to wait for us, maybe we could bath together after we are done with our bussiness, Chika-chan." Riko gave a suggestion I immediately accept. "Sure!"
"Then, We'll go out for awhile, Chika-chan…" the two excuse themselves after finishing their meals.
"Have a safe trip you two!"
oOo
"Let's go, Riko-chan!" The ash-haired girl motioned her friend before she closed the front door from outside. A flash of light enveloped the two quickly before revealing both girl, now in their white Kimono and personal colored Hakama. The light also nullified their camouflage spell, revealing their hidden dog tails and two pair of dog ears.
"Where are you two going?"
The two girl tensed. They were surprised by an unexpected question by a familiar voice.
"You surprised us, kaa-san…"
Both Riko and You felt relieved when the figure revealed itself. It was Chika's mother. Shiitake tailed her from behind. It barked once as if it tried to greet the two girls.
"Are you two doing 'the usual'?" both Riko and You nodded in confirmation.
There was a long sigh coming from Chika's mother after her question was answered by the two girls. There was a sad expression plastered on her face while she looked at the two girls in front of her.
She didn't sure what she should do. She was conflicted. On one side she wanted everything to stop. Yet, she knew it well than anyone else that there was no other way.
It's for Chika's sake…
"Just make sure you two won't overdo it…" there was clearly a sadness in her words. She had to choose.
"...and please be home before 10… Riko-chan, You-chan…"
"We will, kaa-san…" the two girls then vanished into the thin air, leaving Chika's mother and Shiitake there.
"I wonder whether I've choose the right thing to do or not…" she mumbled to herself, eyes gazing at the vast starry sky above. Her hand slowly stroking onto Shiitake's head.
"If only you're still here with us, dear…"
oOo
A group of people could be seen at the pier, some of them grumbling and smoking. They were the ones who hurted Chika and ended being utterly destroyed by You. Their gaze and demeanor made you think they still haven't given up though.
A lone girl walks to all of them. It was Kiyo Zako. Chika opponent from this afternoon's match.
"By the looks of it you all also failed."
A sigh escaped her lips. Now she had to think another method. Their boss would be angry at this rate.
"Kiyo-san it's simply impossible! Those two transfer students are too strong. We have to find a way to deal with them first."
More sigh escaped Kiyo's lips. It all went smoothly until those two meddled. Now she couldn't even call her spirit. Her fame and status gone in an instant. Because of those bastard her life was over.
"Curse them!"
"Then again looking at earlier incident. It's clear they will help Takami whatever the cost. Our course of action is clear."
Flashing an evil grin, Kiyo continued to narrate her plan.
"We only need to kidnap Takami then kill her before they can even notice. That way we can call them to some secluded place and kill them too."
Most of them nod in agreement to Kiyo plans it was a clever plan for some of them. However, when murder was included into the factors, it certainly would bring uneasiness to some people.
"Kill her? Do we even need to go that far?" some of the girls asked in worry. Accepting that unease, Kiyo reasoned with them.
"Takami is a cursed child anyway. She already killed many people. Four of our friends had gone missing after dealing with Takami, they must have been killed by her. Those who protect murderer like her must also die."
With those words, most of them slowly started to follow her idea. Without missing her momentum Kiyo added.
"Remember, Mari-sama and Yohane-sama choose us personally as their underlings. Which means we are also the proud army of Yamato. We are the army which will protect our people from spirits. If Takami also threatened the lives of our people then the only judgement suited for her is death, don't you agree everyone."
Cheering in response. Everyone agreed with Kiyo's word. Content with her follower responses, Kiyo take out her cellphone and unlocked it.
"Then I'll call Mari-sama and Yoshiko-sama to discuss our plan."
…..
"I see…. Then die"
BOOM
Just as she was about to dial the number, a loud explosion was heard out of sudden. it came from Kiyo-san's arm.
When she look at her arm, there was nothing left but a stump, her remaining arm flew in the air before falling on the ground.
Not knowing what happened Kiyo could only scream due to the intense pain. The others though quickly summoned their spirit and scanned their surrounding. From one end of the pier a lone red-haired girl slowly approaching close on them. Her yellow eyes shine brightly in the darkness a hint of madness could be seen in them.
Sakurauchi Riko slowly walked closer. Her Kaguyamori placed on her neck, pack of paper talismans in her left hand and her trademark naginata on her right. Even in this situation she could still smile making her appearance even more scarier than ever.
"Good evening! I recall you all are the ones from this afternoon."
Politely saying her greeting, the red-haired girl drew even closer.
"This simply won't do, I hoped you all already learn your lesson from this afternoon but what did I found? Girls hanging out this late planning to kill our dear Chika-chan. I'm truly glad you girls are such scum I won't have any regrets doing this tonight."
…
"Would you all please die?"
With those words a blue talisman dropped from Riko grip, instantly freezing the ground and trapping those girls' legs in ice. Some girls including Kiyo realized the danger and jumped backwards which saved them from the ice but they know the danger was far from over.
Without any signs of conversation, two girls other than Kiyo quickly performed 'Soul Release'. One wielded a zweihander and the other girl a halberd. Weapons in hands, those two quickly launched themselves to Riko, attempting to kill her. Riko only smiled seeing this. her opponent sensed something was off. For several miliseconds, both of her opponent were thinking to stop their attack.
But their logic said otherwise. They threw their doubts in an instant before continued their attack Riko.
Only for their head flew to the air and their body fell down like a marionette losing is string.
The others could only stare in shock as an ash-haired girl made her entry by beheading their two friends' head. With a graceful steps, the ash-haired girl caught the falling two head before they hit the ground.
Without losing a smile on her face she toyed with the two head and sheathe her sword.
"That was unecessary You-chan."
"Said the one who didn't do anything. I already knew your bad habits Riko-chan, you knew I'll save you so you don't do anything right?"
"That's just your imagination You-chan, I truly have everything under control like in our match this afternoon."
"Ugh, why won't you just admit you need help you sly fox."
"Because I don't. Also you also need sustenance from their spirit right. You could take those for yourself be grateful.
"Urrgghhh, one day I'll make you retract your witty comment." As You said that, she started to bissect the heads two faint spirits in the form of will o'wisps came out from the dissected heads. The ashen-haired girl then proceeded to absorb the two will o'wisps.
"Fufufu…. I'll be waiting for that day."
Watching what the two girls had done, the bullies thought that those two were actually monsters under human skin. Quickly performing Soul Release they started to try to break the ice that trapped their feet. Some even trying to cut their leg so they could move away. Of course not all of them were that brave, there were some who still cowered in fear like Kiyo. Seeing all that, the smile in Riko face grew even wider.
"Moon hymne, fourth verse, ice coffin."
As she said that, with a flash of blue light most of the bullies except Kiyo was frozen encased by thick ice. Delighted with her works, Riko smile grew even wider and wider. Her body trembled in ectasy seeing the terrified face under the ice sculpt she created.
"As usual our sadist ice queen is really scary."
"Fufufu….. don't you see You-chan how exquisite their terrified face are. Aaaah that face, the face that know there are no hope but still try to resist. Only relying on their primal instinct they still try to escape futilely. Aaaah I have done this multiple times but it still gives me the chills."
"I bet you forget we promised to take a bath together with Chika-chan."
HAH!? Her body felt like it was struck by lightning. The redhead quickly compose herself.
"This is bad, I almost forgot we promised Chika-chan. This won't do, I need to finish this fast."
"Err… You already forgot about it, missy…" You complained.
Realizing her mistake, She quickly took a red talisman from her talisman pack.
"Sun hymne, third verse blazing sonata. Explode."
With those words, the ice coffin started to shine in red light. With a flick all of them suddenly explode. Unable to say anything. Kiyo could only stay there shivering in fear, wetting her pants knowing her impending doom.
"Okay all of them dead, their spirit already drained. Now to close this up."
"Haaagghh and we should already be home if Riko-chan leave all of this to me. She just have to switch to her S mode and did all this… then again Riko-chan was always a sadist huh."
"Jeez that's enough You-chan, let's quickly finish this and go home."
"And I was saying this will be over earlier if you left it to me!"
Continuing their peaceful banter, the two moved closer to Kiyo. 'Why are they still smiling? Why are they act like nothing happened? They just killed not just one people, they already killed a lot and they don't feel anything about it, not even remorse? Why?! why did this even happen? She didn't even do anything wrong. She only did as her boss and idol told. She was convinced that she's doing the right thing for everyone sake. But look at her now, like a lamb waiting to be slaughtered.' All of those thoughts swirling around Kiyo head, but the question she let out is.
"Why did you two do this?"
It was very simple, but also very direct. But for them, whose act was based solely on Chika's sake, that question maybe was the strangest question of all.
"Why? Is she a blockhead that cannot understand human words? You tell her You-chan."
"Eh!? Why you pass most troublesome things to me Riko-chan? I'm not your slave you know. Ah well, what did you want to know about? Why we did all of this? Because you hurt Chika-chan of course."
No, nothing make sense. There was no way someone would go that far just for their friends. There must be something else. If not there was no way to justify her friends death. Trying so hard to deny it Kiyo shook her head in panic.
"She's still denying it You-chan. Seriousy I cannot understand why she can't understand it when it's so simple. We're Chika-chan friends. For her we'll do anything. Even if our hands tainted by blood, we'll accept it as long as she can smile like before. So Kiyo-san for the sake of our Chika-chan, please die."
With those words, without losing her smile, Riko stabbed her naginata to Kiyo's heart, absorbing her spirit while at it. Amidst her wavering consciousness she finally understand why they did all of this. It was because of their love. For their love, they would do anything even if it mean breaking the biggest taboo. With that realization, Kiyo's felt that her vision turned dark.
…
"Well at least it's over now. Let's go back now You-chan! We must fulfill our promise to Chika-chan."
Reveling in her fantasy of Chika body, Riko's body start to tremble again. Meanwhile You walked over to Kiyo severed hand from before. Taking her cellphone then unlocked it. She noticed that the screen was showing a contact. It seemed that the girl tried to contact someone when Riko severed her hand.
She then dialed it and threw it to Riko face.
"Oy wake up from your delusion sadist, your job is not over yet."
oOo
"It's almost 10 o'clock… I think we should return now, Mari…" Yoshiko notified Mari after checking the watch on her wrist. They had been there for more than one hour.
"Alright, Yoshiko-chan, just give me five more minute…"
They were currently on graveyard. To tell the truth, the black-haired girl felt uncomfortable being here for a long time, not to mention that it was in the middle of night. It wasn't because she was afraid of ghost, no it was not that. Spiritual occurrence was a normal thing after all. She just didn't like being here because it brought her some painful memory.
The black haired girl then looked at her blonde friend. She standing still there, right in front of two tombstones. The persons buried there must had been died several years ago as the tombstones were looked a bit old. Some part of the tombstone were also covered by green colored moss. Two names were carved on the tombstones, one for each.
"Hey… what would you do if you see what I did right now?"
"Right… I guess you'll be mad at me. You treat her like your own little sister after all..."
"But it's fine! I didn't mind, even though I knew you'll hate me in the end…"
"I'm doing this for you… Yoshiko-chan too..."
The blonde mumbled in her own monologue. her golden-colored irises still staring intently towards the two names carved on the tombstones.
Matsuura Kanan
Kunikida Hanamaru
"We swear to avenge you two…" the blonde silently declared before she turned her body facing the black haired girl behind her. "Let's go home now, Yoshiko-chan." the black-haired girl nodded in response.
Then, out of sudden the blonde's phone rang, breaking the silence in that night.
"Hmm, Zako-chan? why she called at time like this I wonder?"
Pressing the answer button, the blonde then put the phone near her face.
"Hello? Zako-chan? What's the matter?" the blonde asked casually, expecting it was really her underling.
Only to tense as a voice she knew responded through the call.
"Hello is this supposed to be Ohara Mari?"
But it wasn't Kiyo Zako's voice.
"Y-yes it's me Ohara Mari…"
'Riko? how could Zako-chan's phone is in her possesion now? There must be something wrong here…'
"I see, well for starter..." Riko replied in sing song voice, like a kid who just get her new toy. Mari didn't know why but her voice sent shiver down her spine.
"I have killed the owner of this phone and her friends. Their face when faced with death were quite exotic I must say."
"WHAT?"
"Hm? Is my words not clear? Or maybe you didn't believe me since you don't know me? Well that doesn't matter, seeing your face contorted in fear might be pleasure in itself Ohara Mari-san."
"..."
"Oooh finally being obedient are you Mari-san, then I'll get straight to the point. Stay away from Chika-chan. Don't ever dare to send your underlings after her again. But it's also okay if you can't do that, that means I'll see your face as you realize your doom is near fufufu…."
"That's enough Riko-chan. I'm hanging it up now."
Suddenly it seemed like someone snatched the phone from Riko and close the call. By her voice it should be You. Realizing that, Mari could only stood there frozen. Seeing her friend frozen from supposed call from their underling Yoshiko could only aaked panickly.
"Ma-Mari? What happened? That was Zako right? Did anything happened to them."
Without looking back at her friend, Mari could only answer.
"They are dead. Rikocchi and You-chan killed them."
"WHAT!?"
Suddenly silence filled the air. The air grew heavy, nobody could utter a single word. How could they, it was just this afternoon Mari asked Zako to battle and monitor Chika. Now she was dead and it was her fault.
That was too much for her to handle.
"We'll kill them."
"Huh?"
Not expecting this answer at all, Yoshiko could only answer that.
"If they value that cursed girl higher than the lives of other innocent there's only one solution. Kill them. They even killed our friend for that cursed child, that makes them the same as murderer. The same as that cursed child who kill our beloved."
Yoshiko could only stay silent at Mari sudden fury.
"Kill! we'll kill them. That cursed child and her friends. For those who that cursed child kill. For Maru, for Kanan. We'll avenge them!"
"Ooh, how sweet of you, Mari! I'm touched!" both of the blonde and the black haired girl froze in terror hearing that familiar voice.
"But you hurt me… How could you think that we were already dead? I'll sue you Mari..."
That voice?! No it couldn't be…
Both of the blonde and the black haired girl turned themselves towards the source of the voice. It came from behind the tombstones. Two girls in kimono emerged from behind it, the blonde and the black haired girl could only stared in shock seeing them..
"Yoshiko-chan! it's been awhile zura!"
Arc 1 - The orange haired girl and two guardian spirits - end
"Ne Chika-chan We know you don't remember us but that's fine. If it's the price so we can be with you then we'll gladly pay that price. Even if we have to kill everyone to be with you that's fine. As long as we can be with you."
A/n
Arc 1 is over wohooo! Himizu here! So what do you guys think, does this arc surprise you? This fic as hydrilla-san said was based from komuinu tag in twitter. When talking about guardian spirit and 2nd year threesome it should be this right. Bloody yandere romcom *harisen slap from Hydrilla*. Well as the tag and a/n at the start says this fic will have things like this but since it's for You and Riko love for Chika it's definitely will be forgiven right? Right? Also, finally Mari and Yoshiko (IT'S YOHANE!) join the fray with two other girls. I'm sure you already know who they are though.
Well enough of the jokes, as for serious notes. This fic will have side stories since the main story won't be able to cover all of the characters background stories. Also we like the character we made so it won't do justice if we didn't give them enough exposure right? If it goes as planned side story will be released after each arc ends. So since this is the end of arc 1 there will be side story after this, if we don't get lazy lol. As always thanks for reading. Leave a kudo or even better comment if you like this story, rabbit will die if they didn't get enough kudos or comment you know.