"How… how did you?..." shock, surprise… call it whatever you might want. Remilia was not expecting a question like that. I have to know that she is new in all this situation, explaining the whole thing to her quickly will just cause more questions to arise quickly. It's not like I mind answering them, in fact she deserves them and I too think that I myself deserve some, but it'll be better if this were to be talked about nicely and peacefully. This is a vampire I'm talking to. Not a nine year old girl. Or to be more exact, I'm currently talking to a vampire who's over than a hundred years old with a body of a nine year old.
I raised my hand. "It's best if we discuss this later—" she did not let me finish my statement. I did not have the time to react in the slightest. Before I knew it, I'm getting strangled by a small yet ridiculously strong hand. I struggled under the hold, choking while struggling to move my hands so that I could make her let go. Unfortunately, it's easier said than done. Her strength's off the chart. I can't match her. She's too strong. I gritted my teeth, holding back the pain in a way that I can. My eyes found themselves staring into a pair of angry and rage filled ruby eyes. I swear to all that is holy that I nearly pissed my pants at that very moment.
"Enough babbling mortal. Speak, now." I instinctively swallowed, but unable to do so due to the force she's applying on my throat. She harshly lets go of my throat and I immediately stumble back a few steps to safety. I caressed my neck, easing the pain. I panted. That was some scary shit… she's angry, I know. But how should I answer her… if I were to answer wrongly, who knows what might she do to me? Death is a guarantee, I know.
I gulped down, still nervous and scared. Eventually, I managed to make myself firm. I stared into her eyes, seeing her deep red angry slit eyes glaring back at me alone was a challenge itself. I swear, I'm seeing the devil right now. Think… think… ah! Footsteps, thank you God! I coughed, trying to fake a calm posture. In the inside, I'd be lying if I'm saying that I'm not shaking in the slightest.
"The nurse is coming, and I'm sure that your friend would like to hear about this too." I explained as straight and convincing as I can, in hopes of convincing her. Before Remilia could give me an answer, the nurse stepped into the waiting area through the door, making me let out a breath of relief. This way, Remilia can't just shank me alive in the middle of the hospital. At least not without getting rid of the witness, but I doubt she'll actually do that.
At the sight of the nurse, Remilia focuses her attention on her instead of me. I too began walking, approaching the two females. "Woman." Remilia refers to the nurse, surprising the attendant. "How is my friend, is she fine?" there's no surprise if she's concerned about her friend… Patche or something.
"She is fine." The nurse's reply caused Remilia's worry to disappear instantly. But that doesn't make mine gone. Actually, I'm even more worried right now. How am I going to explain this to two people who are literally able to shoot fireballs at me and drain me dry of my blood at the same time? I know that whoever this Patche person is a magician, if that's what I could recall on the story that Sakuya-san told me.
The nurse resumed her explanation. "Your friend's just exhausted, she must have been spending way too much time outside." I don't know why, but I felt like laughing at that moment. "It's not really recommendable to let her out of the hospital as soon as possible… she has asthma and getting exposed to dust and other harmful particles will only make her condition worse." So in short, Patche is not good to leave the hospital yet… great.
"That will be fine. I have our caretaker to look after us."
Yeah, that's rig- wait. I'm a what?!
I blinked. "Ooof!" Guh!... elbows sure can hurt you worse than a punch… in pain, I managed to smile convincingly. "Y-Yeah… I'm there caretaker… I'm Rei, and uh… I was told to take care of them until further notice." I reasoned and lied at the same time. My poor stomach…
"Is that so? I see… then, you could go and visit your friend if you'd like. Here, let me show you her room."
"Thank you." I mean it. If I were to stay here longer, I'm not sure if I could handle the glare that is currently directed at me courtesy of the vampire beside me. So the nurse leads us towards Patche's room. I'm sure that the hospital is well funded, so why the hell must they make the hallways so very long yet there are only about seven to eight rooms in this section? Or maybe, the room's big enough to match even a hotel… hm… curious.
Eventually, we reached Patche's room. Upon entering, Remilia immediately rushes up to her friend's side, grasping the girl's hand with a worried expression on her face. "Oh Patche… are you okay? Are you still hurt? Did those people did anything to you? I swear I'll…"
"Uh… can you please…" for the both my and the nurse's comfort, I excused the nurse out of the room.
"Of course. Please press the button over there if you need help." The nurse said one last time before exiting the room for good. I sighed.
I shifted my attention back to the two girls again, this time I'm intending to get things done.
"I'm fine Remi… they didn't do anything to me. In fact, I'm better now." The pajama wearing girl said with a tube in her nostrils. Her purple eyes found themselves aimed at me, which is about time considering that I've been here for about a minute now. "And… I'm sure that this person is allowed to be here?"
Remilia answer in my stead. "Yes. He's the one who brought you here." She answered. "And guess what, he knows where Flandre and Sakuya are! Isn't it great Patche? Now we don't have to spend a lot of time in here." Her attitude for her friend's different from the one she's showing me. Can't say it's unfair, but it is. Suddenly, she turned at me and glare. I was not surprised anymore, in fact, I'm expecting this. "Now continue what you have to say human, lest you want to end up with a hole on where your heart is…"
See?
Completely tsundere. And it's not cute too.
Begrudgingly, I speak. I spill all the beans, revealing all the facts. Well, I did keep a certain incident and dinner to myself, since Remilia has no need to know about that. But aside from those, I tell her everything I know. They seem to be taking it well—I guess? Since they are quiet throughout the entire explanation, I'm not sure if they are paying attention or trying to store the information that they've learned into their brain. I can't blame though… me, a complete stranger, suddenly knowing these things… it's anything if not suspicious.
And true to my thoughts, Remilia narrowed her eyes at me. I can feel the intensity of the glare, but I'm not affected by it as much as before because she's been doing it ever since before. "Is that all? Are you hiding anything else?" she asked if not demanded. Again, I can't really blame her in a situation like this. She has all the right to be suspicious on me, but knowing what she is, I'll be dead if I were to carry that kind of impression around her for a little longer.
I shook her head, looking as honest as I can. "No. I'm not hiding anything else. I could take you to your sister and maid right now in fact." I said casually.
.
.
.
"Let's go." Surprisingly, that's Patche.
"I agree."
And surprisingly, so do I.
"Whoa…"
I chuckled to myself. Who would've thought that a vampire of Remilia's status would be easily impressed by cars and tall buildings? Still, I could actually see why she's so amazed. This Gensokyo, or wherever she came from, is probably different than modern Japan. Both Sakuya-san and Flandre were like that too when they first came here. I tapped unto the steering wheel, my focus still on the road ahead. The last thing I want is for me to not pay attention and pay the price, both in money and life.
We are driving home, obviously. I don't really think that I'll still be alive if I kept Remilia from meeting those two at home. Speaking of those two… they might be worried. I did left in the middle of the night after all, without saying anything. I would call home, but I don't have a landline, nor do I Sakuya-san own a phone. Perhaps it might be a good idea to either get a landline or a phone for Sakuya-san… or maybe both. As I was thinking, I fail to notice the attention given to me by the purple haired passenger.
"Say… you don't look like you're from here. Yet you are familiar about this place…?" I'm surprised to hear the question coming from Patche, then again… I remember hearing that she's someone who is easily interested in new things from Sakuya-san.
"Yup. I'm not originally from here." I answered, letting out a small chuckle. "I'm half Italian and Turkish, my father is the former while my mother is the latter. Though I was raised in the south east, I've been to my mother's and father's hometown before. But that was a long time ago… I've decided to resume my study here in Japan for a change of pace." I said.
"Hm… is that so?" Patche muttered. "That explains your accent. I knew that it is somewhat familiar…"
I rubbed the back of my head with one hand. "Aha, is that so?" well, I did have people telling me that I have a rather thick accent. But this is the first time someone has asked me a question like this ever since a very long time. My time in Japan has somewhat made my speech pattern more natural than the first time I came here, I honestly don't know if it's for the better or worse. Seeing a situation like this, I'd say that this is for the better.
In an instant, it's back to the quiet and somewhat awkward atmosphere. God… I feel so tense sitting here while driving, I better do something. I reached for the radio, turning it on in hopes of lifting the mood with a light music. But instead of what I was hoping for, I was given another alternative. Instead of a slow, orchestral music, the station tuned into a hard rock styled punk metallica whaddayalada thinginabob.
I shut it down immediately. Well, so much for trying to make things less awkward…
"Uh…" I struggled to strike up a conversation. "Look, we're almost there." Not a really good thing to say at this moment, considering that we still have about fourteen minutes before arriving at the neighborhood I'm living in.
So the remaining trip was quiet as it was before, I drive inside a familiar looking parking area. I lead my two guests to the place where I'm living, and Remilia is eager to get this whole thing over with. Upon reaching my doorstep, I was surprised, along with Remilia and Patche, by the sudden opening of my apartment door. A short figure came rushing out from the door, and I soon hit the ground on my back with a weight on top of me.
"Onii-san, you're back! We were so worried, you didn't even—huh?" fortunately, the person who is on top of me could not finish her statement. If she could, I don't know what kind of death I'll be facing. Flandre turned her head, drawn in at a particular face that is her sister.
"Hello, Flandre."
It's going to be a long… night.
Ever heard the saying, 'hell hath no fury like a woman scorned'? If so, then they might need to change that statement. Hell hath no fury like a pissed off Remilia. Even if she's not showing any signs of anger or rage, I can still feel her fury leaking from her person. I have to keep myself from shivering. Staring at someone had never been so hard, but when it comes to Remilia… it's like looking at air.
"So… it's like that… Onii-san~?" her glare got deeper, way deeper.
"Please on all that is holy don't ever call me that." You can call me a shitty bum for all I care, but not that.
She dismissed the matter just like dust. "Hmph." If that wasn't arrogance, then I don't know what it is. But despite the way she acts, I know that Remilia is having a hard time taking in what Flandre and I have just explained. To her, it might sound like total nonsense, but I'm sure that the proof of Flandre being here alone is enough.
"Then… where's my maid?"
…I was getting to that.
Yes, her maid. My girlfriend, Sakuya-san. I gulped. If I was nervous before, I don't know what to call it now. If Remilia finds out about me and Sakuya-san…
"Oi, I was asking." Her crimson eyes stared at me with mild irritation.
"I don't know… I mean, I wasn't here…?" I tried speaking slowly.
"Ah!" The little vampire exclaimed. Not Remilia mind you. "She's searching for Onii-san, because he didn't return home and she got worr-hmmmphmhm!" I slapped my hand on the brat's mouth, to prevent her from digging my grave deeper than what it is now. I gave her a look. Then she realized. "Ah… eh… I mean that… Sakuya is not here because she got lost…?"
Yup, not suspicious one bit.
In all honesty, I was prepared to get struck down at this very moment. But Remilia chose to stare and be quiet, maybe hiding her irritation away. I can tell that she suspects something, but I'm not sure if she's keen on showing it either. I mean, she has all the rights to suspect me from—everything! I mean look: me, a grown young adult living together with two women who happens to be her sister and her maid. If I were to be put on Remilia's shoes, I'd go paranoid.
The blue haired vampire is calm. Her gaze mostly kept at me; stern and flat. She suddenly sighed, shaking her head momentarily. "Tell me, do you think I am a fool?"
Well shit.
"I am fully aware that you are hiding something from me." Her gaze grew sharper. "Both of you. And I could ask you two nicely to tell me where my maid is…" next is literal nightmare fuel. "or I could take you two on a trip to hell before asking, hmm?"
"She's outside looking for me/him." The both of us said at the same time.
Remilia raised an eyebrow. "Oh and why is that? Why would my maid, so perfect and elegant, would be looking for someone like you?" her question's directed at me, which means that I must answer her. The ticking of clock has never been so loud before, Flandre is definitely staring at me silently giving encouragement. I appreciate her support, but they say a support is useless if it doesn't help. Sorry Flanny Flan, you're not helping.
"Uh…" thinking, I find a very reasonable excuse without exposing anything of my relationship with the maid. "It's because I'm the host. Yeah, that's right!" whoops, nearly lost it there. "Ahem. Obviously, it's because I'm their host." My voice managed to sound even, as if I'm trying to prove a point. "Not to mention, Sakuya-san is only familiar with the local streets, and other sorts of needed knowledge there is in this environment. What if my landowner came into the room? That will be really, really troublesome."
Remilia stared at me for a few minutes. Before shrugging her shoulders. "I see. Very well then, now… I need to know another thing."
What is it now…?
She pointed a finger at her sister, Flandre, who points a finger at herself. "Eh, me?" the blonde vampire asked out as if it wasn't obvious enough that she's going to be the subject of the topic. "What's wrong with me?"
And Remilia's more than happy to point that out. "Why is my sister wearing a different set of clothes?"
… At that question, I'm not sure if I can answer her without telling the full details. After all, it's been weeks after… that happens. Remilia seems to have noticed the silence that Flandre and I emitted. She taps the tabletop with her finger, wanting an answer. "Answer me. Why is my sister wearing different clothing?"
In the back of my mind, I'm prepared to answer her, creating lies and false answers. False, but mostly believable. But Flandre beat me to it by speaking first. "When I got here… I was assaulted."
CRACK CRSSSH
…There goes my glass.
"I'm sorry, could you repeat that little sister?"
Flandre stares at her big sister with huge teary eyes, her expression barely holding up. "I-I was assaulted! I was nearly violated!"
"By who?!" Remilia demanded, shaking the entire building from the tone of her voice. "By this man?!" she pointed a finger at me, causing me to flinch and jump back in alarm.
"No!" Flandre shouted in reply, her voice nearly cracking. "Onii-san wasn't the one who assaulted me. He saved me from those people!."
By now, the situation in the room is tense. I kept myself from even looking at the scene, trying not to attract any unwanted attention from Remilia. As for Patche… she's asleep on the futon, seeing as she was tired the moment she arrived here. I might have no say in this family argument, but what I do have to say is that if they were to shout and screech at other any longer, my landlord will be showing up at the door. Getting caught by him isn't what I'm concerned of. It is him who's I'm worried for; Remilia wouldn't hesitate to kill a person if they kust barge into the room like tha–
BAM
"Imouto-sama! Did he returned ye–"
Every eyes, excluding a sleeping Patche, turned over to focus at our newest audience. There Sakuya-san stood. Her clothes are messed up probably due to the running. From her panting and sweat, I could easily tell that she ran back from the bath house twice if not thrice. Honestly thinking, I'm flattered knowing that she'd go this far just to find me.
The maid, upon landing her eyes on her mistress, went wide eyed. I have to give her some slack, I mean, she is tired from all the running. Sakuya-san's mouth opens and closes, like a fish out of her water. No words come out from her mouth. It's like déjà vu all over again… except this one's serious than the last. Realizing my position, I took the initiative for everyone.
"Welcome ba- GUFFOW!" … and I was hit by a shoe. It didn't stop there, no man, no. I was harshly brought up to my feet by the collar, a pair of strong hands gripping on the piece of clothing I'm wearing, lifting me up.
"You! Where were you! Do you know how long did we wait for you at the baths?! Do you know how worried I am, thinking that you might've gotten into something serious?!" this is my first time seeing her like this, much less experiencing her anger directed at me. "I searched for you, I even went to the supermarket trying to see if you're there flirting with that cashier!"
"But she's still a high school student!" I sputtered out.
"I don't care!" she let go of my collar, nearly sending me back on the ground. Then her finger pointed outside of the door, face still scary as ever. "Out! And don't come in until you're told to. Out, now!" she stomped her foot on the ground as a sign of command.
"But this is my hou-"
"OUT!"
Instantly, I was outside with the door locked behind me.
Now here I am, standing like a fool with nothing to do other than to wait for my entry into my room. Being a foolish person I was, I thought aloud.
"So… she's angry at me?"
Needless to say, three hours of waiting outside is actually better than three hours of waiting inside…
"Here's your coffee."
"Thanks."
Oh how I love my job. The bittersweet smell of strong caffeine lingering in the air, the sharp and strong fragrance of tobacco from every corner of the shop is basically like heaven. I sighed in relief at the thought of having my work lasting for over three hours. Three hours of being outside is better than being inside my house right now. After the talking last night, I couldn't even look at Remilia straight in the eyes. I'm afraid, honestly. I mean, come on. She's a loli vampire with monstrous strength while I'm just a normal dude with no talent in fighting or whatsoever.
Heading my way to the register, I caught a raise of hand from one of the many tables available. Well… duty calls. Putting on my business smile, I walked over to the customer who requires me. Approaching, I bowed politely. "Is there anything I could help you with?" I asked the person in front of me. She's a woman, dressed rather inconspicuously. The long black coat, the sunhat and the thick dark sunglasses are a major giveaway. Maybe she's a celebrity or something… well, either way, it's not my business.
She is looking at the menu. As I thought, she wants to order something. Without looking off the menu catalog, she placed her order. "I would like cup of hot coffee. With milk, please." I jotted down her order as per her request. A coffee with milk...
Listening closely, her voice does seem familiar. Maybe she's a celebrity after all. I can't tell who she is though. Japan's celebrities are spread into tiers after all. There are the idols, the singers, the band groups, the comedians and other sorts of people who are known for their job through the TV network. It's not like I pay attention to this kind of thing anyway; my TV's mostly used for news and other updates regarding the economy. Oh, and of course anime, now that Flandre has learned how to subscribe to a particular channel.
"Okay, your order will be ready in five minutes." Five minutes. Our service here is quick after all. Intending to live up to the code, I rushed over to the kitchen to get the customer's order ready. I made ease of the short journey towards the kitchen, yet I know that I could've done better. As I reach the kitchen, I was greeted by the lack of staff. Today's supposed to be a busy day; everyone's supposed to come. Excluding those who got their break of course. Then I remembered; I'm, along with three other staffs, the only one on duty today. I have Soji-san doing the cashier, Mitanami-san as the cook and me and Mitakami as the waiters. Understaffed much? The master's not even here, I heard he's going on a trip to discuss something with the company.
Without thinking much, I began to prepare the necessary items to prepare a cup of coffee with milk. We are using an instant coffee filter, so there's no need to do much with the coffee itself. I grabbed a clean cup from the counter of the kitchen, along with a small plate to go underneath it. I prepared the milk from the jar, pouring it into another container. The coffee that I prepared earlier is done; I waste no time pouring the hot liquid into the cup. There, a cup of coffee with milk. Putting the cup onto the tray, I head over to the table which I was at before to serve the customer's order.
I reached there in no time, not even five minutes. I bend forward slightly, placing the hot cup of coffee onto the table's surface. "Here's your order. If there is anything else you need, please tell me." I bow lightly before returning for my post on the waiting area for us staffs; the kitchen. The nice thing about working in café, aside from all the things that I've mentioned before, is that you know when you're needed. There's this button that allows customers to call for us waiters. The number of their desk will appear on the screen over at the kitchen area and we will be there to take their order.
I stared at the empty blank screen. There's not much customers today it seems. Well, not that I'm complaining. With the number of staffs we have today, having too many customers to handle will be like a high school cafeteria all over again. While I'm busy with my dozing off, I failed to notice the approaching presence behind me.
"Yo, it's time for your break. Thank you for filling me in, ne?" a fellow staff, Mitanami, said to me while fixing his tie. He's a normal looking guy; a college student, taking the department of physics. I know that because we came from the same university, even if he barely talks to me at all. Not that I mind of course. He's a tall person, a head taller than me. Not so bad looking either too, perhaps he's handsome. His easy going expression makes girls attracted to him, while making guys wanting to hit it so badly. I'm an exception of course.
"Hm, no problem." I shrugged off his good intention with ease. "Well then, I'll be taking my break. If I'm sleeping, don't wake me up. Only wake me up when I'm done with my break." I said dismissively while heading towards the break room.
"Hai, hai. Have fun resting senpai~"
On second thought… maybe I'm one of those guys who wants to bash the guy's face right in.
I begin my small walk towards the break room. Upon reaching the door, I sighed deeply before plopping myself into a chair and sinking my body unto the table's flat surface. Man, I've still got an hour left of work before I could go home; and I'm definitely preferring work right now. Where should I go? I didn't bring my car with me since I need to save money from buying too much gasoline; gas for imported car isn't cheap after all. There aren't many sights that I haven't been into in this part of town… going to a bar will be a big fat no for me.
I don't really care up to this point; going home or not I don't care, as long as I don't have to deal with Remilia's antics. This morning, before I left for work, I've had enough of her already. Patche, not really because she is currently unwell, but the vampire… she's like a certain golden armored bastard from Fate! Requires this, need that, useless this and that…
I pulled out my cigar, deciding that this is the best and only way for me to vent my anger. Lighting the tip with a lighter I have in my pocket, I went on to breathe, inhaling the unhealthy solution into my lungs before puffing it out. Sometimes, people wonder… do smokers even felt sick on the taste of nicotine. Well, as a smoker myself, I'll have to say no to that statement. We see cigarettes not as drugs; but as a way to vent our stress and exhaustion without harming someone. Instead, we harm ourselves; and for me, it's a sign that I need to be more patient with things.
Probably I should consider the matter with Remilia… but I do have my limits. If she breaks it, then so will I. If I break, then things will too. But I doubt that I would do that easily when knowing what kind of person Remilia is. While I'm not easy to anger, I have my own case of outburst. There was this one time where I snapped at a junior in college for dropping my suitcase to the floor. It was clearly a mistake; I wasn't just on my best mood back then. Anyway, I need to really settle things with this 'lady' living in my apartment, or else things will be harder than it is.
Not long later, work ends for me.
"I'm baaack…"
"Ah, you. It's about time you returned."
I'm not going to even bother talking with this person. Yet I know what I must do, and I need to do it now. I force my head to look at Remilia who is crossing her arms while giving me an irritated look. "Hope you had fun outside, now that you have returned, you will tell me everything you know about the magic box."
Wait… magic box? What magi—oh, she meant the TV. Well, I suppose serious talking could be done later. With a flat expression on my face, I lazily pointed at the so called 'magic box'. "You mean that? That's a TV. Basically, you can watch news, cartoons, sports and other channel that involves different categories."
"Hm… what an interesting item. Human, I demand you to have more of this… TVs… placed here!"
"Hey, one's enough. Besides, I've had enough with your demanding." Plopping down the chair, I sighed deeply to myself. It's already two, and just the perfect time for lunch. I smell something cooking in the kitchen; looks like Sakuya-san is cooking nabe. "Anyway, how's that friend of yours?" I pointed towards the sleeping woman wearing the purple pajama; who is currently sleeping in my futon. It's a good thing that I bought another set thought.
"She's fine. She woke up while you were away before, she said that she'll be fine after resting for a few more days. Which mean that we will stay here until Patche is ready to go." She stated.
Looking at the ceiling, I could only sit in silence. Not sure if I can say anything about that. Now that Remilia is here, Flandre and Sakuya-san could go home. I'm happy, I really am. Yet I'm also dying inside; thinking that that day might come.
"Hey Remilia?"
"Hm?" she must notice the lack of formalities in my word.
"Can we talk tonight? I'll treat you to dinner, just the two of us?" I suddenly said.
I do not hear a reply from her. Was it really that surprising? True to my words; she is indeed surprised. But that look disappeared right away, replaced by her usual arrogant look. "Oho~? My, what a really tempting offer you have there."
"It's the only one I got."
"Hmph, very well. We shall go. But I expect that tonight's dining will be… satisfactory." Looking at her, I was captured by her red eyes. I felt like a rabbit to a wolf; helpless and bare.
Refusing to wit out, I remain strong. "Sure. I'll prepare the things first. You can choose which ever dress you want to use in the wardrobe; I've got some dress that you could try on."
She looked at me weirdly, almost as if she's creeped out about something. "You… you have dresses?"
Face palming, I realized how stupid I was. "No, what I meant to say is that you can browse for Flan's dresses that I bought for her. She fits your size, right?"
The blue haired vampire shrugged her shoulders. "Hmph, I'll see." She then turned away from me with arms crossed; looks like that will keep her from bugging me anytime soon. Satisfied beyond normal, I can rest easy without having to worry with Remilia's antics. Of course, there is actually a reason as to why I'm inviting her out on a dinner. I think that it would be easier to talk to her since there will only be the both of us; talking straight up to Remilia with Flandre and the others isn't really a comfortable thought.
I closed my eyes, resting them for a moment. That is until a voice broke me out of my small rest. "Oh, you're back." I open my eyes to come face to face with an apron wearing Sakuya-san who just emerges from the kitchen. Alongside her is Flandre, her face messy from food tidbits and other sort of gourmet ingredients.
"Ah, Onii-san is back!" she jumped for me, but Sakuya-san was there to stop her. Instead of jumping, the blonde vampire walked over to me, her face beaming with a huge smile. "How was work? Did you meet anyone interesting? Hey, when are we going to the pool or the beach?"
Without even realizing, I'm smiling already. This kid just knows when to bring me up from my sourest mood. I rest a hand on the girl's head, ruffling it softly. "Calm down kid. One by one; one by one." I said. "Work is fine, nothing really interesting. And I think that I met a celebrity before; she was wearing a disguise to not get noticed by the public, but I think that I've heard her voice from somewhere. And about that, I'll need to think about it later, I'm really busy at the moment."
"Muu…" she seems saddened over the fact that I'll have to delay the trip. Smiling softer, I ruffled her head once more, causing her to look up at me.
"Listen here kid, I promise you that we'll go to the pool and the beach. But not now. Who knows? We might even be able to bring your sister with you." I winked while hinting over to the elder vampire who is busy watching anime.
Instantly, Flandre's mood was lifted up by my words. She cheered, her face so bright that it would explode. "A trip with Onee-sama to the pool and beach? Waaai! Hear that Onee-sama, we'll go to the pool and beach together! Yaaay~!" she began to annoy her sister with other sorts of questions; much to my enjoyment.
"Ku ku ku…"
"Hm? Anything's wrong?" Sakuya-san asked me.
"Ahem." I coughed. "Nothing's wrong, nothing's wrong." Anyway, I better tell her about my plan for tonight; so that she won't have to spend so much on food expense. First, I am fully aware that we are running low on food. But I am also aware that the amount of food that is needed for everyday life isn't even enough to compete with the amount of money I'm about to lose tonight.
The silver haired maid sat down on the chair opposite of me. She must have noticed the thoughtful look on my face; she's always been so attentive over small things like these, which is why I love her even more. "Are you sure? You seem… to be thinking a lot recently. If it's about the trip, I'm sure that Imouto-sama won't mind if you were to delay it longer."
Now people, this is my lover. An angel sent by God above just for me. If I could just go over where she is and bit down on her ears…
JAP
My hands instinctively went back; because the place where my hand was before is now embed with a knife. My eyes slowly traveled from the knife to her eyes, seeing a dangerously sweet look on my sweetheart's face.
"Could you explain what was that hand about to do? Hmm~?" if things were a little bit different… I would fall for her even more from that sweet voice of hers.
"Eh, I was… I was about to grab myself some milk—!" my hands immediately went to shut my mouth. I opened them again, trying to correct myself. "Wait, wait, wait! What I meant was, I was about to… uh… say something! Yeah, that's right!"
"Ho~? And what is it that you're about to say, hmm~?" I could see the aura behind her… oh wait I can't. But if I can, I know that it is there… she pulled out another knife, making that two knives present. "Does it have something to do with milk?"
"No, no no no!" I don't want to go down that route! Because if I do… then only God knows what will happen to me. "I was actually going to say that I'll be having dinner outside tonight." I answered quickly.
"Oh, really?" and just like that, she's back to normal. "Wherever are you going to eat?"
"Please don't ask me…" I raised my hand weakly. I pinched my temples, feeling a headache about to come. "I don't really want to imagine all the money I would lost just for tonight's dinner."
"If it's that expensive, why would you eat at that place?" thank you Sakuya-san.
"Well, it's because I'm taking Remilia with me." I pointed to the blue haired vampire who is currently watching a scene where Mami Tomoe got ahead of herself. Oh… she's surprised. Focusing back on Sakuya-san, I noticed how quiet she is. This isn't that surprising, right? "Hey, Sakuya-san? Anything wrong?"
JAP
"What the hell did I do?!"
The knife returned, unlike before, it brought along one of its friends, making it two knives implanted on the table. I saw the owner of said knives shaking slightly, I can't tell whether she's angry or what. But what I know is that if I don't explain myself, I'd be minced meat for sure. "Wait, this is a real dinner here I'm talking about! Not that kind of dinner! Hey, please believe me!" defending myself has never been so hard…
She still stood there unmoving, though she is shaking. I relaxed myself, realizing why she's like this. Sighing, I move my hand to grab a hold of hers. My Sakuya-san is lovely after all…
"Don't worry, we will only talk." I started softly. "I don't want things to go the way it is… that is why I'm hoping to talk things out with Remilia." My other hand went for her cheeks, brushing off the tears from her face. "Don't cry, okay? We'll have our dinner soon if things work out with your chibi master." I grinned, trying to reassure her.
"…Only if things work out?"
"Hah. I'll still take you out whether things worked out or not." I gripped her hands tighter; taking off my hand from her face, I grab her hands with both of mine."I'll try my best, I don't want us to end this way after all…" I whispered the last part so that only the both of us could hear. Sakuya-san looked down, avoiding my gaze.
"…Dummy."
"I'm your dummy."
Needless to say, lunch was satisfying.
Seated on the chair with my laptop open; I am currently talking at the phone. If one were to pay attention, they would notice the fine dining advertisement in my PC's screen. "Hello? I would like to have a reservation for two. Tonight, we'll be there at seven. Um… I would like to have the special offer please. Okay, yes. Thank you too." I brought my phone off from my ear, pocketing it back in my pants.
"What are you doing?" without even looking, I could tell who the owner of the voice is. I feel something brushing up my back, trying to peek on my shoulders. I don't move, letting her do as she pleases. "Oooh… is this another form of those magic boxes or TV you have there?" Remilia has a tad bit attitude asking questions of things she's not familiar with. Not that I mind, but if this is how she'll live in here, I might have to carry an encyclopedia whenever I go out with her.
"No, it's quite different. This is a laptop, there are larger versions of this called computers. With this, I am able to surf the web, as in searching for information about general things. You could say that this is the index of the modern world." I explained briefly. There's really no use in explaining things to the point where I need to be specific; as it would only confuse her even more.
"I see… then, could you search for vampires?" She asked me. I can't tell whether she's curious or not…
"Why?" I asked, while my eyes are wandering towards to clock display on my laptop; it's four already.
"It's my right to see how the society views my lineage as of today. Don't hold me back human, just do it." Isn't she nice?
Sighing, I did as I was ordered. I opened my browser's search engine and began searching for vampires and anything related to the topic. As expected, Google really give the fastest result; especially in a place where internet connection is at the max like Japan. Immediately, pictures and related threads about vampires come to result on my screen; things like 'Vampire's Diary's' and 'Bram Stoker' also 'Vlad Tepes' and other related things.
Of course, things like this are mostly opinions, so there's no way that Remilia will believe them.
"Hm… what nonsense, we do not sparkle when contacted with direct sunlight. Our skin stings and burn; just like putting your hand on top of a candle. Of course, that is an exception for someone like me." She looks smug. That's obvious. "But seriously… almost all of the information here are nothing but lies. Take a look at this: Vampires are nocturnal creature; hence why the rest in the day in order to retain their strength. Indeed that we are most active in the night, but that doesn't mean that we sleep all day long."
Well, the more you know. Shaking my head; getting rid of all the unnecessary information I learned, I stood from my chair while closing my laptop shut all the while.
"Hey, what's the big idea?"
"Get ready, we'll be leaving in an hour." I did not need to say that twice. Remilia understood what I meant and she immediately went for the drawer. I have my clothes prepared; the formal attire that I used when I drove Jun to that cluster storm a week before. It's still clean, I had brought it to the laundry. Sakuya-san and Flandre are outside, they're going to take their bath. I told them that we'll leave while they're bathing. As for Patche… she's sleeping like a log ever since yesterday. Just how little stamina this woman has anyway?
I glanced over to the wardrobe; for a reason unknown to that even me. I was greeted by a stunning sight. Remilia is in the middle of changing her clothes, and she is currently wearing one of Flandre's dress. I snapped my head back to the other direction; my face flushed at the image that I just saw. She really is serious with this viewing me as lower than dirt and not even caring when I'm peeking at her, huh? Well, I better get used to that—not.
Deciding that it was best to not waste time, I quickly change into my own attire. It's a good thing that I'm wearing the pants already, otherwise it'll be a whole new level of awkwardness for me. I put on the top and then the black blazer afterwards, I had my shoes polished and ready for me to wear. I looked at Patche, who is still sleeping until this very moment.
I better write a note or something… grabbing a paper and pen from my bag that I had with me, I scribbled a small note for Sakuya-san and Flandre to read once they returned. Remilia and I had our bath earlier; and no, we did not take one together. I made sure that I have everything ready; wallet, phone, car keys and my pen.
"Are you done yet?" I asked the changing vampire without looking. I can still hear the sound of clothing rubbing against each other; looks like she's not done yet. Seconds later, the sound stopped. I guess that it's safe for me to look now. I turned to look at my dinner partner. The blue haired vampire is dressed in a red dress with a long red skirt; the top has a mix between red and purple and a small ribbon is tied on the waist level to keep the dress in place along with the zip on the back. Did I buy this for Flandre? If so, then I'm pretty sure that Sakuya-san was the one who chose the dress for her.
"Ufufu… how do I look? Am I captivating?" she did some poses, like stretching her arms, crossing her arms, and puffing out her nonexistent chest out. Look, while she does indeed look lovely, I don't think that it really matters. Then again… I suppose it does. If I knew Remilia, she's the type of person who shows off every single thing that she has, no matter how little of value it is.
I gave her two thumbs up along with a flat look. "You look good. Now, let's go. It's already four; we need to go somewhere else before we could have our dinner." I can't just satisfy someone of Remilia's caliber with just a dinner can I? I planned this before; we will visit the sightings around town. And by sightings I meant malls; along with some landmarks that are nearby; like the statue of Hachiko and also maybe go up the Tokyo tower.
But I doubt that we could do the last one; seeing that we might spend more time on going to malls. I just hope that she won't buy too much or something expensive… I've only got so much left. Heading over the door, I am joined by Remilia. Once we are outside, I locked the door because Patche is inside. Sakuya-san got a spare key, so I'm sure she'll be able to get inside. I've made sure so that Patche, in case if she were to wake up while we are gone, would not get hungry. We left her some leftover; the girl hasn't eaten anything since yesterday after all.
Pocketing the keys back into my pockets, I offered my hand towards the vampire who stood beside me. Her reaction was foreseeable; she was taken aback and surprised at the sudden action. "Come on, let's go." At that, she took my hand, though the smug look never did disappear from her face.
We make quick work of getting into the car; next thing we knew, we're already driving straight for the malls. I toured Remilia about the place, keeping her updated with new information regarding malls and other attractions like that. Though it might seem normal for her, Remilia is completely clueless from the stares she'd been gathering from people around us. It's more like the both of us; but I damn well know that most of the stares are directed towards her. I mean, this is a foreigner we have here. A foreigner that is dressed rather sharply and doesn't irradiate the usual aura that foreigners seem to be giving off. I guess I'm a foreigner too, not being Japanese and all that.
So after the brief tour was done, we went for the shops. This is where things started to get a little bit tiring for me. Women, no matter what race are they, are still women. They speak, walk, and shops a lot. But with Remilia, she isn't shopping. She's dragging me from shop to shop just so that we could browse the stores. She would occasionally try on some of the clothes; but she didn't demand me to buy a piece or two for her. I thought that it was weird but, I came to a having a question.
Is this the real Remilia?
Now what I'm seeing here is so much different from the Remilia I knew one day ago. This, what I have here, is a polite young lady who is acting selflessly and as elegant as she could. She's not the demanding and bratty child she was when she's at home; nor is she the impatient and stubborn scary vampire she is. She is just being a completely different person; I even pinched myself a few times just to make sure that I wasn't falling asleep while helping her shop. Wow, I'm actually wrong. Maybe Remilia is a nice person after all.
Time went by fast, our dinner's time is steadily approaching. We are in the car once again; with me driving the both of us to our destination. The air in between us in quiet, almost uncomfortable. But I think that it is better this way; seeing that I will be doing most of my conversation in the dinner. Still, I need to remember the whole point of this dinner. And that is to convince Remilia to let Sakuya-san or even Flandre stay for a longer time. I know I'm pushing it but I won't know until I try.
"Here we are." I suddenly said.
My car stopped halfway, slowing down my acceleration so that we both could take a good look of the place where we are eating. "This is the place… it seems that I have underestimated your taste in fine dining." Was the comment that she shoves down to my ears. I ignore as I drive safely to the front entrance of the restaurant, where two properly dressed men are waiting. I did not comment about her input; as though what I normally would. I decided to not kid around this time, keep things serious and all that.
I stopped the car and motions for Remilia to open the door by pointing at the door handle. We both exit the car at the same time; greeted by the two staff standing in front dressed as a proper waiter. I walked over to Remilia, extending my hand. She gave me a confused look; to which I elaborate. "Don't worry, we'll make them think that we are together in this; also, what kind of host I would be if I'm not there for my guests, hm?"
"Ufufufu… I guess you are right." Well, so much in trying to look cool for a moment. I took her hand with me, holding it by the palm. Manner's important and all but it's even more so when you are entering with a vampire who could end your life along with going inside a restaurant that has five stars in it. Not literally; I meant in ratings.
"Good evening sir, madam." Both of the people on duty greeted us with business smile sported on their faces. "Do you wish to reserve a place for further notice?" one of them asked.
I reached into my coat pocket to bring out a small paper. "I have reserved a place already," I hand over my car key to the other person. "could you please park my car for me? Make it somewhere nearby."
"Of course sir."
While that one is busy, Remilia and I are currently being directed inside of the restaurant. Now I know why they call this place as a 'fine dining' restaurant. Look at this place; huge, neat, the ambience is really different than a usual restaurant. Not to mention; the prices they charge for the foods… tables and chairs are arranged properly, similarly to any other restaurant. But looking at the décor and employees working here, I can tell that this place outdoes common family restaurant. This is, after all, one of the finest places to eat in Tokyo. I got my way here from browsing the web; also I called Jun to provide me with a heads up on the prices and facilities. Rich boy been here before…
We walked along the dining place; seeing well dressed people of a higher status eating and conversing amongst each other. I could tell that this is the norm for them; yet again, I don't really have the rights to say that aloud. I am nervous, I can't deny that. But along with this feeling of nervousness, I could imagine this turning out smoothly; at least that's what my optimistic side wants me to believe. See, I was always a person who stands in between. I try to see both the positive and negative sides of things; no matter how much I refuse to believe that such ways are possible.
Just like this situation, I began thinking. If things were to go smoothly, Sakuya-san and I could resume our relationship and Flandre could stay here longer. But if it doesn't, Sakuya-san and Flandre will both leave as soon as Patche is ready to go. Now there are a lot of other possibilities out there; but I just can't think of anything other than these two; these are the ones nearest to my prediction. I'm not going to go to an extreme level but… what are the chances of Remilia allowing Sakuya-san and Flandre to visit me like twice a month or something like that? I know that that is probably crossing it but, I just can't help but think that way.
"Here are your seats, sir, madam." The kind waiter gestured.
While I pull my own chair, Remilia has her done by the waiter, seeing that it is a part of the service. As soon as I seat, I draped over the napkin over on my laps, showing a common sign of table manner. Remilia's having it smoother than I am; she's a real lady after all. Ignoring her physique that is. Ahem, anyway, the waiter offered me a menu, and I remember that restaurants like these serves wine along with whatever menu you're having.
I opened the menu and I'm greeted with a whole load of names that I'm not familiar with. Fine dining restaurants found in Japan are built to replicate what they have in France; meaning that most of the menu here are written in France along with the romaji title underneath the French name. It's a good thing that they have the menu's description; otherwise I'll be ordering bread and butter. "I'll have the boeuf bourguignon." It's said here that it is some sort of… stew prepared in wine. Well, that's the common one here, as it is stated here on the menu.
"Then I will have what he is having, alongside your finest red wine. Make sure that it is chilled and well preserved." As expected, the woman knows what to say. It looks like I don't really have to show her how to do things here; it's more like her class in the first place. She seem pleased, maybe I was right to take her out here tonight.
"If that is all, then your order will arrive shortly." The polite gentleman bowed, before returning back to the kitchen to prepare our orders. My eyes trailed off to the far distance; taking in the constant chatter of people talking with each other. Eventually, I came eye to eye with Remilia.
"So tell me, why this all of a sudden?" the vampire stared. She folds her hand elegantly on the table. "Why this? If I remembered correctly, you're not so keen about having me anywhere near you." Her voice is, for once, serious this time. No humor, no arrogance. Just a serious curiosity.
I flicked a strand of hair that has been getting over my eye before answering her. "Why? Why can't I?" depending on that flat stare she gave me, I say she's not taking in any vague responses. Welp, it's not like I could lie to her anyway. So, I'll trick her.
"It's… something personal really." I started slowly. "I mean, I know that this whole thing is sudden for me. Maybe for you too; so what I would to ask is this," Well, here goes nothing. "If I were to ask you and your family to stay here longer; would you agree?"
At that, I could see the dilating of pupils from Remilia's eyes. Her eyes widening, her face transforming; showing surprise. It's clear that she wasn't expecting me to say that. At that moment, a different waiter approached our table, he carries a while towel over his arm while carrying a bucket of cold red wine along while carrying a tray with two glass on it with his other hand. He set the glass on the table; near mine and Remilia's reach. He also poured the wine for us, as is the custom for restaurants like this. Shortly after, he left after giving a bow.
It looks like she's taking a while trying to process the whole thing into her mind. Oh well, I'll enjoy myself a fine glass of wine.
"What do you mean?
…apparently, my wine tasting has been cut short; now that our lady has finished processing the request. I can feel her stare on me, since when it hasn't, and I can tell that beneath those threatening orbs; lies a glimmer of confusion accompanied with wonder. Before answering her, I dabbed my lips with a napkin that is provided; tainting it red.
"It's just as I've said. Could you prolong your stay, of course, you don't have to do anything aside from the things that you've been doing from yesterday." Which is nagging, insulting and irritating me.
Still, Remilia isn't going to take my reason that easily. "And why is that? I've been so sure that you've been irking over the fact that I am here…" before she even finished her statement, my hand raised to stop her. Impolite, yes. Wrong, no.
"It is true that I was a little… irked by your attitude against me; but that is no longer a thing." I sipped a glass of my wine. "The thing is… I've been… changed." Somehow, I settled with that choice of words. "I'm changed, I have changed, ever since your sister came into my life. And if she were to leave suddenly I…" unknowingly, my palms are now clenched into fists. "I wouldn't know what will happen to me."
"So, you are saying that you have feelings for my sister?"
I sputtered. "No!, I mean, yes, but no. Not in that way…" I lowered my head, trying to hide the redness on my face. "Though… the same cannot be said for your maid…" it came out small but I am pretty darn sure that Remilia heard it right. I raised my head again; staring Remilia right in the way with courage as my fuel. "So please, allow me to at least spend the rest of summer with them." I could go and prostate myself on the floor right here now, but I know that it will only give us both unwanted attention.
A long uncomfortable silence reigned over our table. Remilia has yet to reply. Is she considering my request? Is she thinking of a way to deny it? Or maybe, is she thinking of saying how foolish it is for me to even gets to know her family? I don't know what the woman is thinking. My senses choose to ignore the noisy atmosphere around me; focusing only at the reply that Remilia is about to give.
"Tell me."
I tensed.
"Will you take care of them?"
"With my life." There goes my answer.
Remilia closed her eyes, her lips stretching into a small smile.
"Hmph. Let's see if you could keep your words shall we? I will give you a test, and should you pass the test, I will consider your request." She pointed a knife at me; her red eyes challenging me. "But… should you fail, then we will leave as soon as possible." She gave her condition.
I can't say anything about that. It seems fair. Nodding, I steeled my nerve. "Alright. I'll take it."
She smirked. "Good. But enough for now, our dinner is here." She said in delight.
And true to her words, our orders arrived quicker than I expect them to be. The waiter that we saw from the very first is pushing a cart, on it is a platter with a metal lid covering what's inside. This is purposely done to keep the temperature. "Here are your orders, sir, madam." He opened the metal lid revealing our orders. I am not familiar with dishes like these, but if I have to say one thing about it is that; it'll be one hell of a dish.
"Bon appetite." We both say at the same time.
Dinner was good, very good.
A/N: I was planning on releasing this before my Kancolle fic, but hey, things change. I have to say that I have put a lot of effort on making this chapter; ignoring story length, this chapter shows a step that the protagonist took in this story. Now you guys might not like the way I did this but, this is probably the most realistic way I could give.
No 'Remilia getting angry and killing the protagonist' shit… guys, we need to remember that Remilia, Flandre, Patche and even Sakuya has lost a necessary amount of power for them to do things like what they're able to do in Gensokyo. But I will say this; the longer they stay in the human world, the more power they lost.
Whoops, looks like I've given out a very important detail. But don't worry. A mortal is, after all, a miserable pile of secret.
Anyways, hope you like this chapter and have a good day/night!
