DISCLAIMER: Alas, they still aren't mine. *sob*

AN: Again with the lovely feedback! Love the MH fan community, you're all so nice. I hope you continue to enjoy the story! Another fluffy chapter for you, but don't worry we'll be getting so some action soon.

December 1993: Fujino Residence

She was supposed to be getting dressed to go to Shizuru's tenth birthday party right now, but instead here she was standing looking at her topless reflection in her floor length mirror. It wasn't as though she was even much to look at, the same thin body, her still flat boyishly muscular chest and pale skin looked much like they had months ago save for perhaps some added muscle definition from training extra hard lately. It was just that when she was looking for a shirt, the scars on her body had suddenly caught her eye in a way they hadn't before. But why though?

She stepped closer to the glass, noticing the same three wide pale white scars running vertically down muscled forearms from elbow to wrist. Her chest also had the pattern of the three wide scars black in colour, one set crossing the other to make a large romanji X. There were other single scars here and there on her upper arms and flat stomach as well. She idly frowned, thinking how much less cool the chest scars were going to look when she got breasts, but then grinned when she realized why they had caught her eye in the first place. It looks like the X-men symbol.

Midori had a bunch of Marvel back issues that she mail-ordered from a hobby store that she used to frequent in London. Apparently the older redhead was on a huge comic book kick lately. My Watcher is a bigger kid than I am sometimes. After the redhead finished reading the latest ones, she'd give them to Natsuki claiming that they'd help her English.

"Hey Midori!" She yelled in English, "Come here real quick."

"Yeah Shortie what is it?" The Watcher grumbled as she poked her head into Natsuki's room, "Hey put a shirt on you barbarian! What am I raising, a cave-Slayer?"

Natsuki rolled her eyes, "There's nothing to see anyway except what I wanted to show you." She pointed at her X-scar, "Do you think the First District would take me back for a bit to give me cool metal claws like Wolverine?" She asked, referring to her favourite character in the comics.

Midori just rolled her hazel eyes at her Slayer's antics, "You would like to have some built in weapons like that huh little Slayer?" She grinned too at the thought, "Anyway, I hate to tell you this but that's not going happen. Because if any of those First District bastards showed up here I'd put some giant splinters in their faces with my crossbow. Now hurry up and get a shirt on so that you won't alienate all of the other kids at Shizuru's party."

Natsuki playfully stuck out her tongue at her Watcher, "Please any boys there would kill to look this good." She grinned as she flexed in demonstration.

"Well, as I'm not a creepy paedophile like half of the old men in this crazy country who watch anime, I'm afraid I can't comment." Midori turned and left the room to avoid encouraging her Slayer's antics. "Hurry up!"

"Abuse!" Natsuki whined pitifully, but getting no response she just laughed as she walked back over to the drawer with her shirts in it. She finally decided on a black long sleeve t-shirt with a large grey and blue wolf howling at a full moon on the front. She finished off her outfit by threading her thick brown leather belt through the loops on her faded jeans sagging them a bit as they were getting a little too short. Lastly she grabbed her cross from the dresser and slipped the leather cord over her neck before tucking it inside her shirt. Need to go shopping soon, I think I'm actually growing. Also I'll have to see if Midori can get me a shirt with the X-men logo or something. Or maybe Wolverine or Wolfsbane! That would be so cool.

Now that she had stopped goofing off and was actually ready to take the short walk over to Shizuru's house, Natsuki felt the nerves she had earlier coming back full force. I really hope she likes her present! It had taken the Slayer a long time to come up with a good gift for Shizuru that wouldn't be something that anyone else would give her; finally she had decided to get walkie-talkies for the two of them. She and Midori had tested a set of them around the Fujino estate, checking that the range would be large enough. To both of their nerdy delights the signal for the toys was static free on most of the property, even indoors between the two houses. Midori had commented that she wanted one too, to which Natsuki had told her Watcher to buy a set in a different colour for New Years or something, joking that they could use them while out slaying.

Natsuki walked out into the large sitting room and kitchen to get her worn clunky brown leather boots from the rack by the door as well as her black leather jacket. She looked around and was surprised to see Midori sprawled on the couch in socked feet playing Metroid on the NES. "Yo Midori, are you not going?" She asked nervously.

Midori just shook her head, glancing over to her Slayer casually before turning back to her game. "I'll be by later in the evening for dinner, but this afternoon I don't need to be over there. They have other adults around who can help babysit."

Natsuki walked over and sat down on the couch next to her Watcher, ignoring that she was wearing her boots already, "But Midori, I've never been around so many other kids without you there. Not since before anyway."

The redhead paused her game and put down the controller, drawing her Slayer into a one armed hug, "Cutie, you've killed demons bigger than I am without me there." At her Slayer's 'no duh' look she tried to explain differently, "I want you to get used to interacting with other kids so that you'll be ready for school, which by the way is only months away now. Just think of it like a training mission alright? Don't let any of the kids intimidate you just because you're not allowed to slay them. Though try not to do anything to draw too much attention to yourself, especially in front of any parents."

Listening to her Watcher ramble, Natsuki suddenly realized that Midori was nervous about Natsuki going to the party alone too but was trying not to show it. "Don't worry Midori, I'll be alright." She said, giving the same feral grin she used on demons to show them that she had no fear.

"That's my Slayer, now go on and try and have some fun alright? I'll be by in a few hours."

The Slayer gave her Watcher a quick hug before rising to her feet and grabbing the clumsily wrapped present from the kitchen counter before heading outside. It was a nice sunny early afternoon, but the December sun had done little to raise the temperature which held steady at a chilly, though not cold eleven Celsius. The trees in the woods behind her small house had mostly dropped their leaves save for a few evergreens, and the garden had no flowering plants outside the ornate greenhouse across the way.

Taking a deep breath to steel her courage the athletic eight year-old walked swiftly up the path to the kitchen entrance. She entered the busy kitchen and loudly greeted Jun who was putting some last minute decorations on the large vanilla cake. The white icing trimmed with intricately iced green vines and lavender roses was rather impressive. "Hey Jun-chan, you know where the others are hanging out?" She asked casually, trying to cover up her nerves by imitating her Watcher's bold mannerisms.

Jun smiled kindly at her though he hardly spared her a glance as he was so busy today. "Hey Natsuki-kun," He greeted, returning the playfulness, "I think they were in the game room on the other end of the house. Sakuya-sama wished to keep any potential destruction to the area of the house with the least amount of fine arts."

Natsuki rolled her eyes, "They're just a bunch of kids, I'm sure they'll like the game room fine."

"You too Natsuki-kun, try to have fun alright? And make sure Shizuru-hime has some fun too, even if it is her birthday." He added firmly.

Natsuki nodded, offering the older man a casual wave as she headed out the heavy double doors and down the long hall. The sounds of the various other kids who had already arrived reached her Slayer hearing, letting her know she was heading in the right direction even though she'd only been to this room once before. When she spent time with Shizuru inside this house it was normally in the large library, Natsuki preferring to do something that the older girl enjoyed. Also Shizuru had been helping get Natsuki completely caught up to grade four reading level in preparation for April.

When the dark haired girl hesitantly opened the door to the game room she was assaulted by an overwhelming number of loud voices. Trying to enter unnoticed her eyes drifted over to Sakuya sitting in one corner with a pained look on her face like she was fighting a migraine. Natsuki approached her cautiously before quietly asking where they were keeping the presents. Shizuru's mother gestured over to a rather large pile in the corner near the pinball machines, bravely offering Natsuki a small smile. "Can I get you anything Sakuya-sama?" Natsuki asked politely.

Sakuya just shook her head sadly, "I am afraid I already took my medication, so unless you have some magic to make a bunch of nine and ten yearolds shut up I fear I shall just have to tough it out."

Natsuki kept concerned green eyes on Sakuya's brown ones for a moment before nodding, "Alright, but if there's anything I can get you just say. Maybe I can go get Midori to fill in for you for thirty minutes or so to see if your meds will work faster?"

Sakuya nodded at that suggestion, "Thank you sweetie, I'll come get you if it gets too bad."

After she placed her poorly wrapped present with the other gifts, Natsuki quickly searched the room for her friend only to find her surrounded by a bunch of other children. The dark haired girl felt awkward announcing herself to Shizuru when it would draw the attention of so many others. Natsuki instead took a place leaning casually against the pool table gazing at her friend and hoping to catch her gaze. While she waited she also tried to get a read on some of the other children in the room.

They all seemed to have gravitated around the sitting area in the room where there were a couple of large comfortable leather couches and some chairs in front of a huge television. Some anime that no one was really paying attention to was on the screen, all of the kids seemed to be trying to talk with Shizuru instead. The birthday girl was sitting on the middle cushion of one of the sofas, a tall boy with black hair in a tailored suit on her right and a husky looking girl with curly blonde hair wearing a rather ugly frilly green dress on her left. Shizuru looked nice in an elegant long red velvet dress, her hair tied back in a loose ponytail with a matching red ribbon.

There were two other boys in the room, a shorter light brown haired boy in khakis and a red polo shirt, and a tan skinned boy with messy black hair in torn jeans and a sweatshirt. The three other girls included a rather small girl with short messy brown hair and glasses in a green skirt and frumpy yellow sweater who was sitting on the floor next to the blonde girl. The other two girls were sitting on the other couch by themselves, though they did answer any comments one of the other children sent their way. One had short chin-length black hair and preppy boyish clothes, while the other one had long brown hair and bright blue eyes and was wearing a long light blue dress.

Natsuki had only been watching the group for a few minutes when Shizuru looked up, "Natsuki!" She squealed happily, her calm demeanour changing instantly at the sight of her friend. The Slayer offered her friend a casual wave before the older girl threw herself into Natsuki's arms. "I'm so glad you came." She murmured.

"Like you said on my birthday, I'm your friend so of course I'd go to your stupid party." Natsuki grumbled, though her green eyes gave away how happy she was. "I'm a little nervous to be around so many people, but don't worry about me, just have fun." She admitted, warily studying the surprised expressions on the other children's faces.

Shizuru reluctantly took a step back from the younger girl and turned to her other friends, "Everyone I'd like you to meet my Natsuki."

Natsuki inclined her head slightly to the others, "Hey."

"The two girls on the couch there are Chie and Aoi."

"Nice to meet you Natsuki." Chie said, grinning broadly. Aoi just gave her a shy wave though her blue eyes were kind.

"The boys are Reito, Tate and Takeda." She pointed to each of them.

"Pleased to meet you." Reito greeted her politely, though Tate and Takeda just grunted in her general direction before going back to talking between each other.

"And certainly not least the blonde is Haruka and that is her good friend Yukino." She said gesturing to the husky blonde and her mousey friend.

"Why did you invite your servant to a birthday party?" Haruka questioned loudly, looking critically at the younger girl.

Natsuki tensed up and concentrated on keeping her breathing even, trying to lessen the urge to fight. Shizuru's expression did not change noticeably but Natsuki recognized the controlled tones that she was speaking in, "Natsuki is here because she is my friend."

Haruka scoffed openly, clearly ready to dispute Shizuru's claim when her mousey haired friend placed a soft restraining hand on her knee, looking up at the taller girl pleadingly. Finally the husky girl just shrugged, "Fine whatever, doesn't matter to me what you make friends with." Yukino looked embarrassed by her friend but didn't speak up only mouthing, 'sorry' to the two of them.

"I'm sorry about Haruka, she has a tendency to say offensive things sometimes. She's been helpful to me at school, but that is no excuse for her to treat you poorly." Shizuru spoke very softly over the resumed chatter of the others, but Natsuki's Slayer hearing easily picked up her words.

"It's no big deal Shizuru." She shrugged, "Plenty of people have said worse things about me."

"In my presence, no one should say bad things about Natsuki." Shizuru said louder, making sure everyone was paying attention. "She is my friend, anyone who says cruel things about Natsuki should not say them where I can hear." For the first time Natsuki saw something of a fighter's fire in Shizuru's now crimson eyes, and even being a Slayer she would not have wanted that look directed at her. The other children swiftly nodded. Shizuru smiled sweetly once again at their agreement, "Great! Now let us move on from this unpleasantness and enjoy ourselves shall we?"

At the repeated nods Shizuru turned her attention away from them and back to Natsuki. "Now, you don't need to be sitting over here all alone either, why don't you come sit with everyone else?"

"Alright." Natsuki agreed without complaint, recognizing a request that was an order easily enough. Almost before Natsuki had even agreed Shizuru had grabbed her hand possessively and was dragging the dark haired girl over to talk to Chie and Aoi.

"Hey Shizuru-san! Thank you again for inviting us, it's always nice to spend some time with you outside of school." Aoi spoke softly as they sat down next to the two nice girls, Shizuru on the sofa and Natsuki on the floor. "And it is nice to meet you Natsuki-san, don't let Haruka's big mouth get to you alright?"

"HEY I HEARD THAT!"

Chie rolled her eyes and shot back, "Well stop saying stupid stuff all the time then and this wouldn't be necessary." Chie leaned in closer to Natsuki, her light brown eyes glinting with interest, "So Natsuki-kun, Shizuru-san tells me that you will be going to school with us next year?"

Natsuki's first inclination was to tell the nosy girl that it was none of her business, but then she remembered that she needed to practice blending in a bit with other children. "Yeah… I'll be a year behind Shizuru though."

Aoi nodded, "Well you look a bit younger than we are, so that only makes sense."

"I turned eight in August!" Natsuki defended herself. Aoi just grinned and shook her head with amusement.

"You're a year behind us then silly and young for your grade too." Chie laughed.

Natsuki just shrugged, not really wanting to reveal that she didn't really know much about how school worked, since she had not attended in so long. "Do you like going there?"

Chie shrugged too, "It's alright. My favourite is art class by the way."

"I like colouring sometimes…" Natsuki commented hesitantly, not really knowing much about art.

Aoi patted Natsuki on the shoulder, hastily removing her hand when the younger girl tensed under her touch, "Hey, I'm sure you'll be just fine. I know I can't wait until winter break starts next week! Shizuru-san, are you and your family doing anything fun for Christmas and New Years?"

Shizuru shook her head, a hint of something shining in her eyes that was gone before Natsuki could identify it, "Not for Christmas, we'll probably go visit the shrine for New Years though."

At a tap on her shoulder, Natsuki looked up to see the tall figure of Reito looking down at her with a calm expression on his darkly handsome features, "Me and the guys were wondering if you wanted to play some billiards with us?"

Natsuki looked passed him to see Tate and Takeda standing behind him with amused looks on their faces. "Uh… just me?" She asked, looking around at the other girls she was sitting with.

Reito nodded, "Well, since you're new we figured it'd be nice to get to know you a little better. Plus you seem more… competitive than the other girls would be."

"What did you say Reito? I'm just as competent as she is!" Haruka objected loudly from her spot on the couch where Yukino was now sitting next to her.

"Competitive…" Yukino murmured almost absently, correcting her friend as the others tried to hide their amusement.

Shizuru giggled, "Haruka-chan is also the very definition of competency I'm sure." Shizuru looked up at Reito with that same dangerous glint in her eye, "Natsuki only need play with you if she wishes and you will treat her nicely."

Reito looked away and held his hands up in front of himself defensively, speaking sincerely but with a look in his eyes that made the Slayer instantly feel this boy could not be trusted, "No need to worry Shizuru-san, my friends and I will be polite to Natsuki-san."

Realizing that she wanted to figure out what this boy was up to Natsuki slowly rose to her feet, casually rolling her shoulders back as she held Reito's dark brown eyes with her own. "Of course Shizuru doesn't need to worry, she knows I can take care of myself." She flicked her eyes to the other two boys, but then turned and headed over to grab a cue, grinning a bit to herself as she hefted it. This is like the polearm version of the Slayer's weapon of choice.

"So Natsuki-san," Reito started, his tone casual as though the answer meant nothing to him, "I hear you don't go to school. Why is that I wonder?" As he asked he set up the table for their game. Apparently she would be playing him first; Tate and Takeda were sitting out this one. They would play the next game and then the winners of each would play each other. Natsuki hadn't quite decided yet if she was going to try to win.

The pool table was awkwardly high for all four children except for Reito who was unusually tall for a boy his age. Even Tate and Takeda were several inches taller than Natsuki, but the small Slayer was used to fighting against things much larger, so she figured standing on her tiptoes to try and play this game couldn't be too difficult. She looked up to see Reito looking at her expectantly and remembered he'd asked her a question. "It's not really any of your business is it?"

Natsuki knew that she was supposed to be trying to get along with these children, but there was really just something about Reito that rubbed her the wrong way. He also seemed vaguely familiar, like she had met him before although she knew she had not. Reito didn't seem to be upset with her for brushing off his question, he just nodded calmly. "You want to go ahead and break?"

The Slayer nodded, she'd only played this game a few times with Midori before. The Watcher had always beaten her horribly, but Natsuki had always figured that was because she was part English and wasn't this was like their game or something? Shaking her head a bit to clear the unnecessary thoughts she set up the cue. Giving it a tap with just a little bit of Slayer strength she grinned at the satisfying explosion of colour when the cue ball powered into the others. When they had come to a rest she grinned, noting that the three, seven and ten balls were pocketed and it was still her turn. Heh, I know I'll kick this smug little rich boy's ass.

"How do you know Shizuru anyway?" She asked in a bored tone, unable to pretend too convincingly that she much cared about anything else about him. Natsuki didn't look at him to wait for his answer, instead setting up her shot for the one ball that was all the way across the table from the cue. Tate and Takeda were leaning up against a nearby wall chatting with each other, apparently about some girl a year older than them at school who was growing breasts already. Natsuki rolled her eyes and tried to block out their conversation.

"Well, we're just in the same class… I live with my grandfather, Makoto Minagi. My mother left us when I was younger and my father used to work up north or something. We haven't heard from him in a while though, but we were never close." Reito shrugged as though it didn't matter to him. Natsuki eyed him somewhat suspiciously after sinking her shot, but then turned her eyes back to the table as she tried to set up her next one. This was going to be tricky, the two ball was surrounded by stripes and she didn't want to give the smug boy any help. She sighed, deciding to play it safe and settled on just trying to separate it out for next turn. If this is the game of choice for snotty rich boys I'm gonna have to get Midori to help me practice. Oh yeah… it would be polite to say something.

"Um, I'm sorry to hear about your mom." Natsuki offered, being able to relate to what it was like to not know where your mother was. She did not offer any details about herself to him though.

"It's alright, I hardly remember her I was so young when she left." His tone was rather emotionless while mentioning her. Natsuki looked up at him curiously after finishing her shot and waiting for him to take his turn. She figured anyone would miss their mother, even if they only missed the idea of having any mother. "Your mother is the redhead that works for Fujino-san?"

Natsuki shook her head, finally revealing something about herself, "No I'm adopted. I don't think of her as my mother even though I like Midori a lot."

Reito grinned triumphantly as he pocketed the nine ball. "I'm glad we both manage to have people to live with. It is interesting that you and this Midori-san are so close."

The younger girl looked at him suspiciously, again seeing that glint of something in his eyes that told her that while this conversation seemed harmless, maybe he was talking about something else that she didn't see. "Of course we're close, she adopted me." She grinned as he scratched on this shot, the cue missing its mark and landing in the corner pocket behind it. Sauntering over and casually fishing out the white ball she set it up for a good shot at the two ball. "Anyway that still doesn't explain why you're friends with Shizuru really. Why do you two get along?"

Reito looked frustrated at Natsuki's obvious attempt to change the subject, but as she had counted on he was unwilling to be openly rude like she was. Still, he wasn't above making some vaguely disguised insults, "Well the Fujinos are a well-respected family, it is only logical that someone like myself from another such family would befriend their heir. I wouldn't really expect someone like you to understand the details though."

Natsuki just shrugged, not really caring for the complications of rich people unless they were directly hurting the Fujinos. "Whatever." She ignored him for a bit concentrating on the game, pocketing the two, four and five balls before scratching on the six. "Bloody hell!" She cursed rather loudly in English at losing her turn.

"You're a Christian? That's unusual." Reito asked suddenly as he took his turn eyeing the eleven ball that was dangerously close to the eight ball.

"No why?" This guy is so nosy.

"Well, you are wearing a big cross around your neck." He commented casually as he skilfully managed to get the eleven in the pocket, avoiding the eight ball handily. The twelve was unfortunately not where it could be hit easily, and he ended up scratching again sighing lightly in frustration.

Looking down somewhat startled she noticed that her cross had indeed fallen out of her shirt. Again she sensed that tone in his voice that said he was fishing for information, though she didn't know what some random kid could possibly know. Casually she walked around the table to set up her next shot, trying not to show that she was effected by his comment. "I just like it is all." She answered, not giving him any details. When she looked up from her next shot however she saw that he was still looking at her with that searching expression and narrowed her eyes at him.

She felt a fatherly hand on her shoulder and looked up to see the friendly grin of Hirotaka. Silently she thanked him for the distraction. "Hey there Natsuki-kun, you managing to enjoy yourself with these ruffians?"

"Hey!" Tate and Takeda protested, "We were just hanging out here." Tate defended.

"I'm just messing with you, I know my daughter wouldn't make friends with any ruffians." He threw a hard look at them that caused them to shift uncomfortably, "Anyway, I was just coming over to let you all know that we were getting ready to do presents."

Since Natsuki was clearly winning their game Reito nodded, eager to end the game now before he actually lost. "Of course Fujino-san, thank you again for inviting us."

Natsuki just rolled her eyes, and walked over with Hirotaka to help with bringing the presents over to the sitting area. Once they were all set up she took a seat on the floor next to Shizuru, "You still having fun?" She questioned her friend quietly.

"I am, thank you Natsuki. Did you enjoy playing with the other boys?"

The Slayer grumbled, "Hey, I'm a girl!" As the other children laughed at her outburst.

Shizuru just laughed, "I'm sorry, I shouldn't tease Natsuki, she is much too pretty to be a boy."

Blushing the younger girl hastily tried to get the attention of the others away from herself, "Uh… it's fine. Presents! You should open them!" She grabbed a fancily wrapped blue box from the top and shoved it forcefully into the tawny haired girl's hands, causing the others just laughed louder.

In typical fashion Shizuru took her time opening each gift, never ripping open the wrapping paper like Natsuki would have done, instead delicately removing it and setting it aside with care. Natsuki was rather impressed by the gifts as until this year she had not gotten gifts from her friends. Rich people sure are different…

Chie had gotten Shizuru a nice camera and Aoi had gotten her several books that Natsuki had not heard of. Haruka and Yukino a tea set that looked expensive even to Natsuki who knew nothing about such things. She found herself involuntarily reaching for her knife in her boot when she saw the creepy looking porcelain doll that Reito had given her. This is a theme, expensive things I know nothing about. The only gifts that Natsuki understood were the ones Takeda and Tate had given Shizuru, and that was just because they had given her cards with yen in them. A startlingly large amount of yen that Natsuki couldn't relate to. I've never seen that much money in one place before.

Hearing a snort of amusement she looked up to see her Watcher standing in the back next to a still rather tired looking Sakuya. Midori winked at her and rolled her eyes. Natsuki grinned back, happy that someone else in the room understood how crazy this was. Then Natsuki blushed violently again when Shizuru kissed her on the cheek after opening her present. "Thank you! Natsuki is so thoughtful."

The other children looked confused as to exactly what the use of the younger girl's gift even was, after all it was obviously just some cheap thing from the toy store. Only Chie seemed to understand what they were, "Oh those things are pretty cool! I've been wanting to try them out. Is the range on them any good?" She questioned Natsuki with excitement.

Natsuki grinned; she decided she rather liked Chie. "Midori and I tested a set out the other day; they work from one end of this property to the other, even if one or both of them is indoors."

"Wow that is amazing! I'm impressed that they work so well without being connected by a wire like that. Makes you really wonder what they'll be able to do with technology like that in a few years. I know my dad has a big clunky cellphone thing that he uses to keep up with the office, but apparently they're too expensive for just anyone to use." Chie rambled on about the little bit of technology that was Natsuki's gift. Natsuki just smiled and nodded at the older girl's enthusiasm, not really knowing enough to comment on the details.

"I just wanted a way to talk to Shizuru more often. We live right next door but she can be so difficult to track down!"

Chie grinned conspiratorially leaning in to whisper in Natsuki's ear, glancing past her new friend to see Shizuru looking at them with rusty eyes twinkling. "Shizuru-san is like that at school too, it's impossible to find her if she doesn't want to be found."

After presents they all moved into the dining room for cake. Natsuki was impressed with the decorating job Jun and the other staff had done. The table was covered with a white table cloth that was decorated with various purple flowers, the expensive chandeliers had streamers and there were vases on every other surface with roses in the same colour theme. Natsuki walked up to Jun who was standing in the corner to compliment him on a job well done before going to sit at the table with the other children.

She ended up sitting on the end next to Takeda and across from Aoi who was next to Chie. Shizuru was sitting at the head of the table with Reito and Haruka on either side of her. Natsuki noted with some amusement that she was obviously sitting on the boys' side of the table. Natsuki ended up being teased by everyone when she ate more cake and ice cream than any of the older children without realizing it. Takeda who was sitting next to her just stared, a look of shock on his tanned face.

After they all finished stuffing themselves with cake they headed back to the gameroom, Natsuki being eager to start a new game of pool with Reito so that she could kick his butt. When they entered she was slightly disappointed to see that Hirotaka and her Watcher were already engaged in a game, though she was amused to see how much Midori was winning by. As the other children went back to the television area, she walked over to her Watcher to give her a high five while Hirotaka was taking his turn, trying gamely to catch up. "I see you've talked someone else into playing pool with you." Natsuki greeted.

Hirotaka rolled his eyes as he tried to set up his shot, "You got that right Natsuki-kun. I can't believe I let myself fall victim to this!"

Natsuki just laughed as she allowed her Watcher to pull her into a one-armed hug and ruffle her hair. "I can't help it if I'm good can I Natsuki?" The redhead grinned cheekily, looking into her Slayer's green eyes. "You doing alright with the others?"

She nodded replying in English, "Yeah most of them seem nice enough. I dunno about that Reito kid though, he seems like he's up to something but I can't think of what…"

Midori poked her Slayer's nose playfully, "Well, you can't expect to get along with everyone. He's probably just being a boy that age, I wouldn't worry."

Natsuki wasn't convinced, but she nodded anyway knowing that she would need more evidence to convince Midori that she wasn't just imagining things. I'll have to keep an eye on him at school next year. She hung out around the pool table with her Watcher and Hirotaka for a few more minutes before Midori noticed what she was doing. "Hey, what are you doing hanging out with us old people anyway? Go talk with the other kids some more." Noticing the tired look in her Slayer's eyes she continued gently, "Go on, the party should only be another hour or so before their parents come pick them up anyway."

Growling softly Natsuki shot her Watcher a glare before heading back over to where the other kids were hanging out, pointedly ignoring her and Hirotaka's amused laughs. Zeroing her gaze in on Shizuru, Natsuki almost didn't notice the aggressive movements of the other person approaching her from the side until they were almost on her. Seeing the movement at the last moment she turned swiftly, coming face to face with Haruka who moved well into Natsuki's personal space before stopping. So close that Natsuki could feel the larger girl's hot breath on her face.

Natsuki wrinkled her nose, the slightly off scent of the husky girl's breath making all the cake she had just eaten sit a bit uneasily. "Hey shrimp, I wanted to talk to you alone." The blonde growled roughly at her, indicating the door to the gameroom.

The Slayer just shrugged unconcerned. It might be helpful to hear exactly what this annoying girl's problem with her was. "Alright, let's go." She turned and headed for the door, not checking to see if Haruka followed. After they exited the gameroom she looked around trying to find a good place that they wouldn't be disturbed, finally she headed for the nearby door that lead outside to the gardens. There were still a couple hours of daylight left, and while it was a bit chilly outside the Slayer rarely got cold and didn't much care if the annoying girl who wanted to be rude to her was comfortable. "Come on, we can talk out here without being interrupted."

Natsuki forcefully opened the door, not holding it open for the other girl as she walked outside, breathing in the refreshingly cool air. Walking over to the waist high stone wall that lined the path Natsuki leaned casually against it, looking over at a nearby fountain. She only had to wait for a few moments before she felt Haruka's rough hand on her shoulder attempting to turn the younger girl around to face her. "Hey I wanted to talk to you!"

Natsuki resisted the pull, shoving the other girl's hand off of her shoulder before slowly turning around to face the tall blonde. She held her dark brown eyes with her own for a moment taking a deep breath for calm before speaking, "Well, we're here. What did you want to talk about?"

"I don't suppreciate some low class trash like you trying to take advantage of the Fujinos." The blonde stated bluntly, again reaching out a hand to shove Natsuki in the chest.

Natsuki growled softly, struggling against her instinct to fight back when struck, as she didn't want to cause herself or her Watcher trouble over this annoying girl. "Listen you stupid brat. Midori works for Fujino-san. He pays her for her work by allowing us to stay here. We do not take advantage of the Fujinos." She spoke slowly and in small sentences, hoping that if she kept it simple this girl might understand.

"Fine. So hired your gaijin fake mother to do something. He's probably having an affair with her."

Her anger flared hot and she shoved the blonde hard, she snarled sharp white teeth flashing as the larger girl stumbled backwards. "Don't you dare talk about them like that."

The blonde didn't back down, shoving Natsuki with all her strength though the Slayer didn't budge, "And so what if he's giving you trash a place to live. That doesn't mean you should be talking to Shizuru-chan and garnishing her good name!"

Natsuki smirked a bit despite the insult because of its clumsy delivery, "Look, she already explained this earlier. It's none of your business. Shizuru can be friends with anyone she wants."

Haruka just glared at the younger girl, "Well I certainly don't have to just sit by and watch as she makes a horrible mistake! I will not be friends with the likes of you, you are bequeath me!"

Natsuki just rolled her eyes, "That's fine with me."

Haruka blinked in surprise at the lack of argument, clearly having expected Natsuki to beg to be her friend. They stared at each other for a bit longer, Haruka trying to intimidate and Natsuki just feeling bored but not wanting to back down. Then they heard a soft voice calling out. "Haruka-chan?"

Letting out a huffing breath Haruka growled at the dark haired girl, "This isn't over." Looking away she called out, "Yeah Yukino I'm over here having a chat with the little servant."

Yukino trotted over to them looking up at the larger girl with a warm affection in her eyes that surprised Natsuki. "Oh Haruka-chan, you know Shizuru-san said to be polite to her. Anyway your mom is here to pick us up." Yukino glanced shyly at Natsuki, "I apologize for Haruka-chan's probably rude behaviour; she's just very protective of Shizuru-san."

Natsuki just shrugged like it didn't matter to her, and it didn't. Much. "Eh, it's fine whatever. Erm… it was nice to meet you too Yukino-san." Then as an afterthought she added, "You two get home safe."

Yukino just nodded shyly at her, grabbing Haruka's arm and pulling her friend back towards the house. Natsuki just stayed where she was, enjoying the quiet of the late winter afternoon after a stressful day with too much social interaction. She walked over to one of the koi ponds, allowing herself to be soothed by their bright colours and quiet swimming. The Slayer watched the fish alone for fifteen minutes before she heard soft footfalls on the path heading in her direction. Looking up she smiled as she saw Shizuru approaching her. She must have wanted me to hear her, she normally still sneaks up on me.

"What's Natsuki doing out here all alone?" Shizuru questioned as she handed Natsuki one of the purple walkie talkies. "Here, you keep this one."

Natsuki thanked her quietly before answering, "I dunno Shizuru, just needed to be alone. I guess it was hard to be around so many other people. School is going to be so difficult when I start up next year, I don't even think I'll know anyone in my grade."

"Does Natsuki mind my being here?" Shizuru asked softly, at the younger girl's shake of the head she continued, "Anyway, I believe Yukino-san is in your grade."

Natsuki smiled feeling somewhat relieved that she might know someone in her class, "She seems nice."

Shizuru grinned, "Yeah. It's a bit odd how she and Haruka-san are such close friends too isn't it, them being so different." She paused, rust colour eyes studying Natsuki closely, "No one gave you a hard time today did they?"

"Naah, I had fun." She replied, not wanting Shizuru to feel bad about Haruka's rude behaviour. When the older girl just raised her eyebrow at her sceptically at that response she repeated, "I mean it, it was fine. Chie and Aoi seem great, and I had fun kicking Reito's butt at pool."

Shizuru giggled, allowing the distraction since Natsuki really didn't seem upset. "Reito-san was rather impressed by Natsuki's skill at pool."

The Slayer just grinned, "Yeah it was nice to actually have a chance at winning for once instead of being crushed by Midori." Then as if mention of the Watcher summoned her, they both heard the redhead's loud voice calling Natsuki's name. "Over here!" Natsuki yelled as Shizuru just giggled at the way they interacted with each other.

"There you are I thought you were trying to get out of training this evening!" Suddenly noticing that her Slayer wasn't alone the tall woman added, "Oh, hey there Shizuru-chan."

"Good evening Midori-san. I hope you had fun beating my father at pool?"

Midori grinned, "Sure did. Oh, Happy Birthday by the way! I hope you liked what we got you?"

The brunette nodded, "It was a very thoughtful idea, thank you both."

Nodding the redhead turned back to her Slayer, laughing as she punched her in the shoulder hard enough that green eyes glared at her, "Don't glare at me, you're the one hiding out here trying to get out of training tonight." She looked back at Shizuru, "Sorry, we had a great time but this shortie has work to do."

Shizuru just smiled politely, "That is fine Midori-san. You and Natsuki have fun." She hugged Natsuki gently, "Thank you again for coming to my party, it was great to have you there."

Blushing painfully Natsuki struggled to reply, "Erm, it's no big deal Shizuru. I um, had fun."

Midori snorted at her Slayer's awkwardness, "Alright you stop stalling. Have a good evening Shizuru-chan, I'll see you in a couple days for your lesson yeah?"

Shizuru nodded waving at them as they went their separate ways. Natsuki and Midori disappeared into the door of the dojo, neither noticing as Shizuru turned back and headed over to one of the windows, staying hidden in the shadow. The tawny haired girl pulled her heavy black wool coat tight around her against the rapidly cooling winter evening, hardly noticing the time passing, as ever completely entranced by her friend's incredible speed and strength.

Natsuki seemed a blur of motion as she attacked the practice dummy with punches and kicks that were so powerful Shizuru could clearly hear the impacts from them even through the walls. She had been watching for some time when suddenly Natsuki looked over at the window where she was standing, narrowing her eyes and searching the darkness as though she knew she was being watched before amazingly her eyes settled on the exact spot where Shizuru was standing. Shizuru gasped in panic and turned and ran back towards the house.

"What is it Natsuki?" Midori questioned, confused as to why her Slayer had suddenly stopped training to glance behind her.

Natsuki just shook her head, smiling a bit to herself. "Naah, it was nothing, just thought I heard something." With that she turned back to her training before her Watcher could question her further. I don't mind giving Shizuru a bit of entertainment if watching me doing something boring like this is fun for her. Happy Birthday Shizuru.