OMG! The con last week was AWESOME! Todd is soooo funny! Michael is so nice and loves to talk! And Vic is just amazing! Sadly, he was too busy with his other fangirls and overwhelmed throughout the day that I couldn't get a hug from him... Oh, well. There will be other conventions...

Anywayz... I just want to say that I'm really really REALLY sorry I'm posting this late you guys. I've been sick since Monday with a sore throat and everything, and I couldn't really think straight... And I just started recovering on Friday...*sighs* Well, when it cleared up a bit, I decided to start working on this chapter. So, here it is you guys!

Hope you guys enjoy it!

OCs USED IN THIS CHAPTER:

Meghan Maple (Moonlight's Shadow Warrior)

Jenna Maple (Sunrise's Light Warrior)

Chiyo Sasaki (ValueMyHeart)

Yumi Kasajiro (pres1111)

Disclaimer: I don't own Ouran High School Host Club, or anything Host Club related. I also do not own the other OCs used and/or mentioned in this chapter. THEY rightfully belong to their owners (listed above)

Claimer: I own all of MY OWN OCs.

~ Chapter 36 ~

Escape from St. Lobelia

Stretching my arms behind my head, I inhaled the fresh, spring air; and then I sighed with pleasure as I crossed my arms behind my head while continuing my stroll down the sidewalk with a smile that was impossible to erase. The sun's warm, gentle rays caressed my skin, and reflected off my charm bracelet. I hummed a little tune as I walked beside Haruhi without a care in the world.

"Isn't springtime wonderful, Haruhi?" I asked the casually dressed brunette girl beside me. "The days are so nice that you just can't stay cooped up indoors."

Haruhi chuckled weakly. "You sound like Tamaki-senpai."

"So?" I asked with a smile. "Besides, what's there not to love? The trees are starting to grow fresh, green leaves, the cherry blossoms are starting to bud their little pink blossoms, and the weather is just perfect! Not too warm, and not to chilly either."

"Poetic much?"

Lowering my arms, I shrugged. "I'm just an outdoors person."

Haruhi only sighed, and then the two of us continued our stroll to the supermarket. It was the perfect Sunday afternoon, and I decided to go with Haruhi to help her with her shopping. I was still fed up with Kyoya last week for writing such rotten things about me in that stupid little, black notebook of his. It was difficult to focus through school, as well as study, so Haruhi offered to tutor me on most of the stuff that didn't quite register with my mind. In the end, I stayed over at her apartment, and now here I was with her, traveling to the grocery store.

"Say, K.C.?" Haruhi asked, breaking the silence between us.

"Yeah?" I answered.

"I know that it's probably none of my business," the female host began, "but what's going on between you and Kyoya-senpai? I mean, I thought for sure that you guys had already made up, but now you're both back at each other's throats."

I scoffed. "That no-good Ootori's just driving me up the wall again. But," I added, waving my hand dismissively, "I'm kind of over him already."

Haruhi tilted her head, rather interested. "Over him? Since when were you even 'into him'?"

I froze realizing the words that apparently slipped off my tongue. Geez, for an aspiring lawyer, Haruhi sure knew how to pick out key words to use her logic against her opponent. With that kind of skill, she'd be, without a doubt, a great lawyer like her mother. Of course, like any typical opponent in court, I had to find a loophole.

"Uh... well, um..." I began lamely. "What I mean be 'over him'... What I'm trying to say is... uh..."

Yeah. This wasn't working out too well for me.

I released a deep breath. "We just became friends, all right. And that's all we'll ever be."

"When did you guys become friends?" Haruhi inquired.

"Back when the hosts dragged us to Koriyama," I answered simply.

"How can you be over him, if you two were just friends?" the female host pressed on.

I held my breath, as I glanced away from her. Crap! She was onto me! Well, like I said. Haruhi was going to be one heck of a lawyer, a stonewall lawyer at that. Nothing was going to get passed her.

Admitting defeat, I sighed. "All right, all right... So, I was kind of crushing on Kyo -er, I mean- Ootori-senpai."

"Have you told him?" Haruhi asked.

"Weeeeeeelllllll... kind of..." I answered.

"What did he say?"

"Nothing. He was asleep."

"I don't think that really counts, K.C."

"It does so! I admitted my feelings to him."

Haruhi sighed. "Still, Kyoya-senpai has to know in order for it to be official."

I hung my head somewhat as I thought over it. Just when I had gotten over the fact that he was engaged. If I had told him sooner, he probably wouldn't have accepted the engagement. Of course, now my feelings for the Ootori boy didn't mean anything.

"It won't make much of a difference now," I answered.

"Huh? Oh, right, he's engaged," Haruhi answered.

Surprised, I glanced over at her. "You knew?"

The female host nodded. "Everyone in the club's known about it since the last week of the second semester."

I flinched at the thought. So, I was the last one to find out? Why didn't any of them say anything! I screamed in my mind. GAH! Now, I know how Tamaki felt when he was the last one to find out that Haruhi was a girl. Yeah, Haruhi told me that story, which was humorous at first; but now that I was experiencing the situation, I felt like I could storm the city of Tokyo like the raging Godzilla.

Trying my hardest to contain my frustration, I faced down the sidewalk. "Oh, looks like we've arrived." Then I turned to Haruhi with a forced, and twitching, smile. "What do we need to get?"

The female host, oblivious to my somewhat hidden irritation, dug out a folded piece of paper from her pocket. "Um... let's see," she mused scanning over the handwriting. "First thing is-"

"Hey, Haruhi!" two voices chimed in unison. "Didn't expect you to be here!"

The two of us glanced up to find two, identical looking girls, rushing up to us from down the sidewalk. "Twins" was the first word that came to my mind. They both shared long, chocolate brown hair, except one girl had bronze tips, and identical pairs of deep blue eyes. They were exactly the same height and shared matching slim bodies. Despite the physical appearance, however, the two girls wore different color outfits.

One of the twins wore a red T-shirt and black short-shorts, while her twin wore a pink T-shirt and purple short-shorts. Both girls wore the same type of tennis-shoes; however, one girl wore black shoes with red laces, while her twin owned a pair of purple tennis-shoes with pink laces.

"Oh, hey, Meghan," Haruhi spoke as the two girls approached us. "Hey, Jenna. I guess you guys are going grocery shopping as well?"

"Yeah," the twin with the pink shirt spoke cheerfully, "but when we noticed you, Meg and I decided that we should all shop together in groupies!"

"Great..." Haruhi muttered sarcastically.

"So, Haruhi," the twin with the pink shirt, who I presumed was Jenna, piped up. "Who's your friend?"

"Oh, right," Haruhi spoke. Then she smiled and gestured to me. "Meghan, Jenna, this is Katherine." Then, she faced me and gestured to the two girls. "Katherine, this is Meghan and Jenna."

"Pleased to meet you both," I spoke, bowing slightly at the waist. "So, how do you two know Haruhi?"

"We're in the same class," Meghan spoke rather flatly.

Jenna nodded, confirming her sister. "We're also apartment neighbors!"

I smiled, and then I turned to Haruhi. "Guess you have twins around you all the time."

The female host groaned at the thought. Even though it wasn't a school day, I could tell that Haruhi was reminded of the Hitachiin brothers, and the thought of two twins probably made her feel like she wished to move to the moon. Well, I didn't think that the brothers were all that bad (annoying, but not that bad); and these two sisters seemed to be all right.

From what I could tell, these twin sisters weren't anything like the Hitachiin brothers. It seemed that Jenna did most of the talking while her sister lay back and only nodded every once in a while. So, that would eliminate the whole "finishing-each-other's-sentences" thing, as well as talking in perfect unison. Well, not every pair of twins had the ability to do the psychic/telekinetic twin stuff.

Suddenly, Jenna grabbed Haruhi's arm and began dragging her towards the entrance of the store. "Come on, Haruhi. Let's get shopping!"

Meghan and I only watched as the bubbly brunette hauled the female host away from us and into through the automatic, sliding doors for the entrance. Okay. Maybe the female twins weren't like the Hitachiin brothers, but Jenna definitely reminded me of Tamaki with his commoner-crazed personality. If this was anime, and not real life, the both of us would have huge sweat-drops rolling down the back of our heads.

"Well, uh..." I stammered, as I glanced over at Meghan. "She's rather... perky..."

Meghan only sighed. "You get used to it after a while."

After that, she strode through the parking lot and into the supermarket to locate her sister and Haruhi in the maze of aisles and possible crow of people with shopping baskets and carts. I sighed as soon as the automatic doors slid to a close. If Jenna acted somewhat like Tamaki, then Meghan reacted like Kyoya would around him.

I clenched my hand at the thought of the Ootori boy, as images and memories of the weeks passed flowed into my mind; however, I shook them off and entered the supermarket.

~ . . * . . ~

When I first entered the store, I thought for sure that we would gather everything Haruhi needed on the list and zip out of there as soon as we checked out; but no, Jenna was popping from aisle to aisle, mainly focused on the cereal or anyone licensed product with a cartoon character on it. For example:

"Ooooh! Meghan! Meghan! Lookie! Lookie!" Jenna exclaimed, pointing at a cereal box on the shelf. "This one's got a puppy on it!"

"We have cereal back at the apartment, Jen," Meghan replied bluntly.

"But none of those have a puppy on it!" her sister whined.

"No, Jenna."

"But, whhyyyyyy?"

"Because I said so."

Jenna's eyes grew big and wobbly as they sparkled with fresh tears, but then she grabbed the box so that the picture was facing her sister. "But, how could you say no to a cute little puppy?"

Meghan sighed. "It's not a real dog, Jen. It's just a merchandizing mascot used to draw more customers in to buying their products."

Her younger sister's eyes began to well up as they locked eyes. Haruhi and I stared at the two sisters, who continued their stare-off; until Meghan sighed and gave in to her younger twin's act.

"This brand isn't going to be discontinued," she spoke. "So, when you finish a box of cereal, I'll buy you another one."

"One with a puppy on it?" Jenna asked hopefully, now with big sparkly eyes.

"Yes," Meghan answered. "One with a puppy on it."

Unable to contain her excitement, Jenna threw the box in the air, where her sister reacted by catching it before it had the chance to burst open or dent upon contacting with the tiled flooring. Meghan growled at her sister, who was twirling around happily as she cheered.

"Does this happen on a regular basis?" I asked Haruhi.

The female host sighed. "Not really. But, Jenna does have a thing for animals, both of them do; of course, obviously, Jenna is more open about it. Plus, she likes attention."

"I can see that," I answered, watching Meghan set the box back on the shelf and then walking with her sister back over to us.

As soon as we knew that Jenna had simmered down from her hyperactive state, the four of us continued on through the aisles checking and collecting everything that was needed on our list. Of course, Meghan kept an eye on her younger sister in case she snuck something off the shelf and hid it in Haruhi's basket. As soon as the female host double checked, making sure that she had everything she needed, and nothing she didn't need, we headed towards the check out and helped Haruhi carry the bags.

The twins took both of Haruhi's bag, saying that she needed a break from carrying anything, mainly because she was lugging around the basket on her arm. I double checked to make sure that there weren't any more. There was one left, so I pulled it off the hook and began walking out of the store, making sure that this was the right bag. When I knew for sure it was, I sighed with relief, and then I stepped out into the sunlight beaming down on the parking lot.

"All right, Haruhi," I called out as the automatic doors slide closed behind me. "I've got the extra-"

As I glanced around, I realized that I was left all alone in the parking lot by the market. Haruhi and the twins were nowhere in sight. You have got to be kidding me! I thought to myself. They actually ditched me? I sighed at the thought. Well, Jenna and Meghan were busy talking Haruhi's ear off at the register, and they were most likely still in their conversation even now. Of course, this wasn't the first time I had been left behind.

While still carrying the shopping bag, I raced around trying to locate them, and as soon as dashed over to the sidewalk, I glanced over to find that the three of them had already began walking towards the apartment building. I sighed with relief glad that they hadn't traveled too far off. While still supporting the grocery bag with one hand, and carrying it with the other, I dart after the three girls.

"Hey, Haruhi! Meghan! Jenna!" I called out. "Wait up-"

"Target..."

"...Captured."

Huh? What the heck was going on? Before I could ask that question, I was swept off my feet by two people and hurried backwards away from the disappearing girls. The bag I was carrying slipped out of my hands from the sudden jerk, and it landed on the concrete. Well, it was a good thing I wasn't carrying the eggs! Of course, what was more important now was who was kidnapping me and where were they taking me. My feet didn't even touch the ground as I was hauled in the opposite direction of Haruhi, Meghan, and Jenna.

When I glanced over my shoulder at them, all I could make out was swishing brown hair, one trimmed short and one left long and wavy. When I looked down, I noticed that they both wore identical red skirts, familiar looking skirts in fact. Okay, well they were girls for sure... or transvestites, but I doubted that Haruhi's dad and his companions would kidnap me for no reason.

Suddenly, before I could ask anything, the two girls brutally shoved me into a car, and I landed on my back on the floor. It took a while for my mind to register what just happened since everything flew by in a blur. The inside of the vehicle was dark, mainly because of the tinted windows. Groaning, I groped around for he seat; and as soon as I found it, I pulled myself up and took a seat and ran my hand through my bangs. I take back what I said about this day being perfect.

"Good to see you," a melodic female voice spoke behind me. I nearly jumped, but was stopped when I felt a pair of long thin arms graze around my abdomen, and then I was pulled against the figure behind me. "It's nice to have another fair maiden around."

Okay, I heard that voice from somewhere... but, I only heard it once. Where though? As I pondered over the people I have met and/or seen, the door behind me opened allowing light to stream into the benighted vehicle. I turned around to find the two girls, who snatched me up and dragged me away from Haruhi, climb into the car.

"All set, Benibara-sama?" one of the girls asked.

"All systems are go," the girl behind me answered.

As if on cue, the vehicle jerked to a start and began rolling down the road. I glanced over at my captors, scanning them over a few times. I was sure that I had seen them from somewhere. Suddenly, the stroke of a hand on the side of my face broke through my thoughts, sending chills down my skin; and to top it all off, the girl behind me pressed her head against mine with her lips hovering mere inches above my ear.

"Don't worry, my fair lady," she whispered gently. "We'll make sure you feel welcome in your castle."

I swallowed hard as I once again thought over what in the world was going to happen to me. And I thought that the club got me into crazy situation; but no, it seemed that I also got myself into some as well.

~ . . * . . ~

"Sooooo..." I trailed off, gazing around the vast, dressing rooms.

When the vehicle arrive at our destination, the three girls dragged me into a giant, cathedral-like building. I recognized the establishment as St. Lobelia Girls' Academy; but... why in the world was I being brought here? It took a while to register the situation as the those girls, (the ones who snatched me first), dragged me down the halls, following their "leader"; as soon as we approached the dressing rooms and stood in front of my captors, I realized who I was dealing with.

"The Zuka Club, I presume?" I inquired, blandly.

The three nodded, and then, one by one, the girls introduced themselves; but not in a normal way, I must say...

The taller girl with the short, boyish style hair clapped her hands making the lights dim, and soon, the spotlight was focused on only her. She struck a dramatic pose. "Benio Amakusa. 3rd year."

Then, another spotlight zapped to life, shining down on the girl with long, wavy, light brown hair, while she also struck a pose. "Chizuru Maihara. 3rd year."

Finally, a third spotlight flickered on casting its glow on the last Zuka Club member, while she also struck a pose. "Hinako Tsuwabuki. 2nd year."

"And together we are..." they spoke at once. Then, they grabbed their uniforms and tore them off revealing Victorian styled dresses with puffy scarves draped around their necks. (Of course, Benio wore a fancy Englishman suit). "The Zuka Club!"

With that, colorful theater lights appeared behind them. Okay. First off, how in the world did they fit those outfits underneath the ones they were wearing moments ago? And, second, since when did the room have built-in lights everywhere? Either these girls had the talent of squezing huge, frilly costumes under typical sailor uniforms; or they just had super sonic speed to get dressed. And I thought the Host Club was crazy... but this was insane!

"Yeah...okay..." I trailed off. "So, why am I here again?"

"Ever since the Performing Arts Festival," Chizuru began as the three of them strode up to me, "we were flattered that Ouran Academy would create a club inspired by ours!"

"So," Hinako added, "since Benibara-sama and Chizuru will be graduating this year, we need someone to help carry on the Zuka Club legacy!"

"We already gathered two willing and talented young ladies," Chizuru continued. "Sadly, there was not a soul on campus to complete the trio. So, we decided that we'd accept the best performance of Ouran's Stellar Club."

"That's when we found you, my darling songbird," Benio added. Then she grabbed me and held me close, gazing adoringly down into my eyes. "The three of us were moved to tears by your performance. Such grace! Such emotion you put into your talent!" Then, the club president, dipped me and gave me a grin before setting me back on my feet and kneeling down in front of my while holding my hand. "That was when we knew that the Lord had sent us a sign, sent us an angel to help continue the legacy of the Zuka Club. So, my fair lady," Benio added, gazing hopefully up at me. "We would be honored for a talented young maiden to join the Zuka Club."

With that, she bent her head down and planted a kiss on the back of my hand. Okay, not only was I disturbed, I was freaking out! If I joined the Zuka Club, I wouldn't be able to attend Ouran Academy, more importantly, pay off my debt I own Kyoya. I certainly did not want to join a bunch of lesbians, or else... I swallowed hard at the thought. Actually... I really didn't want to think about the consequences right now... I still had my dignity and my virginity.

"I appreciate the offer, senpai," I answered.

"Please, call me Benibara," Benio spoke, smiling up at me.

"Uh, okay then," I stammered. "I appreciate your offer, Benibara, but... why me?"

"Because you're not only talented," Benio spoke, standing up. "You're the spitting image of an angel."

How would you even know what an angel looks like? I pondered.

Suddenly, I felt myself being yanked out of the Zuka Club leader's hand and then shoved down in a chair. Chizuru lifted my leg up and rolled my pant leg up to reveal my shaved leg. She stroked her gentle hand up and down it and then rubbed ehr face again. Now, I just wanted to kick her in the face and escape this homo-infested campus.

"You're right Benibara-sama," Chizuru spoke. "Her skin is simply flawless! She takes such good care of it!"

Then, I felt the scrungie slipped out from my hair as long fingers combed through my locks.

"And her hair is so healthy and soft!" Hinako cooed as she continued to run her fingers through my hair.

Yeah, if this were anime a giant sweatdrop would be rolling down my head about now. Now, I was both deeply disturbed and freaked out all at once. It was just a little too weird to have these theater-crazed girls coming onto me like metal to a magnet. Right now, all I wanted to do was quickly make my escape and get the heck out of the school!

"Um, could you guys stop, please?" I began. "I feel a little awkward."

"What's there to be ashamed of, my darling?" Benio inquired, pulling me to my feet. "You're the image of perfection!"

"Not really," I spoke. "I'm only human. I have flaws just like you and everyone else. Now, back to the whole Zuka Club legacy thing," I began, then took a deep breath. "I'm sorry, but I can't join you guys."

The three girls stared at my stunned. "Why not?"

"Well, uh," I stammered, trying to think of an explanation that would convince them as well as get me out of this crazy school quickly. "First of all I'm not really part of the Stellar Club."

"Then why were you at the Performing Arts Festival?" Chizuru inquired.

"Well, my... friend was, -er, is- part of the Stellar Club," I lied. "So, I just wanted to show my support. Of course, as you well know, I was dragged back stage to take one of the girl's place."

"Is there any other reason you are unable to join?" Benio inquired skeptically.

"Yes," I answered. "You see, I really need to finish up my year at Ouran. Clubs and activities are fun and all, but you won't really get anywhere without a proper education, you know. Besides," I muttered to myself. "There's the Host Club, and-"

"No!" Benio cried out. "I will not allow such a beautiful, talented young maiden be hypnotized by such degrading womanizers as that wretched Host Club!"

"They're not really 'womanizers'," I spoke. "And, I actually just help them out and stuff."

"Oh dear! They force you to be their slave?" Chizuru and Hinako cried as the three of them, placed a hand to their forehead as if they were going to faint.

"Uh... That's not what I said-"

"That's it!" Benio cried. "We must register your transfer papers at once! We can't allow those men to use you in such an inhuman way!"

Aren't you guys kind of doing the same thing with me? I pondered.

There was definitely some rivalry going on between the Host Club and the Zuka Club. The way Benio said "men" in a distasteful way obviously meant that she didn't like the Host Club that much, which would explain why these girls attempted (and failed) to make Haruhi join their group.

"Look," I spoke, irritated. "I don't want to cause you three any trouble, so, if you don't mind, I'm just going to head back home and get ready for school tomorrow... at Ouran."

With that, I turned around to leave and made my way towards the door. After moments of silence, I thought for sure that I would be able to make it out of this school; of course, I thought wrong. Right before I could step out into the hallway, Chizuru and Hinako slid in front of the door, blocking the way out. Okay, now I was really starting to get fed up with these girls. It was starting to get late, and I needed to get back home and gather everything I would need for school the next day.

"Please. Move." I spoke through gritted teeth.

"Sorry to disappoint you, my dear," Benio spoke from where she formerly stood. "But, we can't allow you to leave. We need you to continue the legacy of the Zuka Club."

I sighed, and turned to her with a scowl. "I already told you: I don't want to join."

A sly smirk played on Benio's lips. "It wasn't an offer, my dear. You're going to transfer from Ouran and become part of the Zuka Club whether you want to or not."

After that, she snapped her fingers, and then Hinako and Chizuru grabbed my arms. I sighed as my annoyance level began to heat up. I knew that I had been a "lady" for these past couple of months; but I was in a feminist area, so they weren't fond of the sexist rules, especially how girls couldn't fight. A smirk played on my lips as I glanced up at the president of the club.

"I really didn't want to do this..." I spoke.

Then, I tore one arm out from Chizuru's grasp, and then quickly slung Hinako around and slammed her into the other girl. I grinned with amusement as I watched both girls stumble as they tried to pull themselves off the neatly polished floor. Now was my chance. Without a moment to lose, I whirled around to race for the door, but then my arms were restrained by my side as Benio's arms wrapped around my body.

"Now, now," she chided. "A lady mustn't ruin her perfect doll-like body."

"Sorry, sister," I answered.

With that, I slammed my heel down on her foot. Benio reacted by relaxing her grip on my somewhat, and then I jabbed my elbow into her stomach. After that, I burst through her arms and raced towards the door. Suddenly, Chizuru and Hinako slid in front of the door, barricading it; however, that didn't stop me. Timing my escape perfectly, I dropped down to the floor with my leg extended, and slid through the gap between their legs like a baseball player sliding into home base.

As soon as I made it into the hallway, I scrambled to my feet and darted down the hallway with Benio screaming: "After her!"

Sorry guys, I thought with a smirk as I raced around random corners, You aren't going to take me alive!

Of course, that was when I realized that I had absolutely no idea where I was going, or where the exit was for that matter. I couldn't stop though. The three girls' footsteps were thundering behind me, and they sounded like they were getting closer! I thought for a few moments as I searched around, and then realization dawned on me. Quickly sliding to a halt in front of a door, I flung it open, stepped inside, and then slammed it behind me.

I pressed my ear against it as I listened Benio giving the orders to the other two girls to split up and meet back somewhere if they couldn't find me. As soon as their footsteps echoed down the hall until they disappeared, I smirked.

"Excuse me?" a voice spoke from behind me.

Startled, I whirled around to find a girl around my height with long, brown hair and blue eyes. She was wearing a white leotard and matching ballet slippers.

"Ah! Gomen nasai!" I exclaimed. "I had no idea anyone was in here, or at this school for that matter."

"It's all right," she answered with a smile. "On the run from the Zuka Club?"

"Yeah, how'd you know?" I asked.

"Ever since Benio announced that after her graduation, the Zuka Club would disband," she began, "they've been collecting girls with both talent and beauty, whether the girls wanted to or not. Of course, 95 percent of this school's population practically worships the club."

"I kinda of guess that," I answered.

"Don't worry," the girl spoke with a smile. "You're not the only girl I've come across wanted to escape here."

I stared at the girl bewildered. She wasn't going to give me away to the Zuka Club? Thank goodness! I wouldn't know what to do if I was back in the hands of those crazy, theater lesbians. I was disturbed enough already.

"Really? Thanks..." I trailed off realizing that i didn't ask for her name.

The girl only smiled. "Chiyo Sasaki."

I smiled back. "Katherine Johnson."

Then, Chiyo gestured for me to follow her over to a large window, which she unlocked and pushed open. I gazed out the 2nd story window at the perfect view of a lush garden down below and the sight of the city of Tokyo off in the distance, and Ouran Academy off to the far right. Boy, if I wasn't so desperate getting out of this joint, I'd gladly pull up a chair and sketch the scene! It sure was beautiful.

"You see the ivy wall here?" Chiyo spoke gesturing to a wall of ivy right beside the window. "If you can make it down and work your way through the garden, you'll soon find yourself at the front gate. After that, you're home free."

I scanned the garden below, planning the quickest possible escape route, and then I gazed up at the sky. Sunset. It was going to be dark soon if I didn't hurry and make it out of here quickly. Knowing that there was no time to lose, I climbed onto the window sill, and inched my way over to the thick lattice wall with ivy coiled around it. I swallowed hard, afraid to look down, but as soon as I swung my body around, I set a firm grasp on the lattice.

Before scaling downward, I glanced back up at Chiyo and smiled. "Thanks again, Sasaki-san."

"No problem," she answered.

She watched as I carefully made my way down the ivy covered lattice; and as soon as my feet were set on the lush green grass, I sighed with relief glad that the worst part of my escape was over. I glanced up at the second story window and waved to Chiyo, who waved back. Then, I turned and raced into the garden. I didn't have much time because as soon as night would roll in, it would be more difficult to locate the exit.

~ . . * . . ~

It had been about twenty minutes, and the sun had already disappeared behind the hills. Some of its light barely illuminated what was left of the partly cloudy sky, which was now filled with twinkling stars. Sadly, I had passed by the exact same statue five times already. Even when there was the last bit of sunlight, I was still able to get myself hopelessly lost. Coming to a halt by the statue, I sighed and leaned against it.

"What better way to get lost than to get lost at night time?" I mused.

"But that's the fun part!" a voice cheered from nearby.

I jumped at the sudden voice, and then I glanced around looking for the owner of the voice. No movement, and no figure lurked nearby. Everything was left in a still silence. I eyed the garden skeptically, but then I turned around to head in a different direction, when a figure popped up in front of me.

"Boo!" she shouted.

Upon being startled yet again, I stumbled and fell backwards landing on my rear. The figure only giggled, and then offered a hand to help me up. Despite the fact that she was the one who scared me, I accepted her offer and stood up on my feet, where I took a good look at the girl who startled me. She stood around my height, and her long, dark brown hair fell into spiraled curls by her mid-back. Her copper brown eyes sparkled in the faint moonlight along with a pair of turnip earrings.

"Sorry about that," she spoke. "It's just that I'm used to playing hide-and-seek with the rest of the club."

"Hide-and-seek?" I inquired, raising an eyebrow in confusion.

The girl nodded. "I'm Yumi Kasajiro. President of the Hide-and-Seek Club."

"A hide-and-seek club, huh," I repeated. "Wow, that's an unusual idea for a club."

"And it's original!" Yumi cheered. "Yay for originality!"

"Um, yeah," I spoke. "Now listen, Kasajiro-san, I'm kind of on the run from the Zuka Club."

"That's a first," she spoke. "All the other girls I know are practically in love with the club."

"So I've heard," I answered. "But, anyway, could you help me get out of this place."

Yumi smiled. "Of course."

With that the turned around and glanced in all directions pointing a finger at each one as she mumbled "eenie-meenie-minie-moe", until she picked a direction and then began skipping through the garden. This girl was crazy, hyper, and random, all in one, but at least I've met two girls in this school who actually seem straight. Without hesitation, I followed after the female, energizer bunny as we turned a few corners. Most of the time, Yumi was goofing off and pretending to be a ninja as she ducked behind things and swiftly making her way to the next thing to duck behind.

Oh, Lord, I pleaded in my mind. Please, let us be near the exit soon...

Thankfully my prayers were answered, and Yumi and I soon arrived at the wrought iron gate of St. Lobelia Academy. Like with Chiyo, I thanked her for assisting me in escaping this death trap of a school, and then we said or good-byes, and I watched as she, still pretending to be a ninja, rushed through the garden and disappeared without a trace. I sighed glad that I was finally one step closer to freedom.

Of course, this was just the calm before the storm...

As soon as I set my hands on the gate to climb out, two pairs of arms grasped around each one of mine; while a voice spoke from the darkness: "Where do you think you're going, my little songbird?"

I growled at the pet name as a hand lifted up my chin until my eyes met the president of the Zuka Club's eyes. She smirked, but I only returned her glance with a scowl. Just when I thought that I had actually had the chance of escaping this God-forsaken campus. I thought for sure that they weren't tailing me when I climbed down that ivy wall. Of course, I was wandering around the garden for quite some time; plus, this school no doubt had security cameras planted in every possible corner.

Before I could say, or do anything else, A small figure leapt into the air and knocked Benio to the side. Chizuru and Hinako quickly released me, and hurried over to their fallen leader. I stared at the three of them confused, and then I glanced around wondering who, or what, knocked Benio over.

"Kidnapping my friends is a no-no!" a young boyish voice cried out in the night.

Hunny-senpai? I inquired.

Before I even had the chance to look, I was swept off my feet and carried away from the Zuka Club. I gazed up at my rescuer, which was, at first, difficult to distinguish in the moonlight, but his voice was easy to decipher.

"You all right?" his deep voice reverberated through his throat.

My face flushed a deep red, but I smiled. "Yeah. Thanks, Mori-senpai."

Even thought it was dark outside, I could see the ghost of a smile playing on his lips. After that, the stoic host set me down on my feet while I watched as the Hitachiin brothers, as well as Meghan and Jenna bind the Zuka Club in layers of rope before tying the ends together in a bow.

"K.C.-chan!" Hunny's little voice cried out.

I smiled as the little blonde host glomped me, and we ended up laughing along together. After a while, I set him down on his feet, and then we were joined by Haruhi and both sets of twins.

"I was so worried about you, K.C.-chan!" Hunny spoke. "When Haru-chan called and said you were kidnapped by that mean Zuka Club, Tama-chan gathered everyone up to come rescue you!"

"Well, at least you knew I disappeared," I spoke, glancing over at Haruhi, who only smiled in return.

"K.C.! My beloved daughter!" Tamaki squeal echoed through the courtyard.

And just when I thought this reunion was going to have a happy ending...

At that moment, I was trapped in one of Tamaki's typical bear-hugs, gasping for air as his scrawny arms practically crushed my rib. Sure, I was glad to see the hosts and know that I was safe with them; but seriously, Tamaki had to tone down the hugs...

"Daddy was so worried!" Tamaki cried.

"I'm fine 'Dad'," I spoke, just to humor him. "Now can you let me go...? I can't... breathe..."

The blonde spaz did as bidden, and I placed my hands on my knees taking slow, deep breaths. Tamaki may have not broken my ribs, but my just might have bruised some... As soon as I steadied my breathing, I glanced over at the Zuka Club, who were now sitting on the ground.

"Release us now!" Benio cried, while she and her lackeys squirmed to break free.

"I'm afraid we can't do that," Kyoya's cool voice broke the sound of the struggling Zuka Club.

All of our attention was turned towards the Ootori boy as he stepped out of the shadows with that grin on his face.

"What do you mean 'you can't do that'?" Benio demanded.

Kyoya adjusted his glasses. "Katherine's scholarship papers are issued for only Ouran, so even if she changed schools with a mere transfer paper, she would still have to pay to rend a uniform, dorm room, books and everything else. Money is one of the things she lacks while attending either schools."

"Gee, senpai, thanks for mentioning that..." I mumbled.

Benio stared up at Kyoya, shock etched on her face, and then she growled and snapped her head towards me. "This isn't over! Mark my words, you will become part of the Zuka Club someday! I'll do whatever it takes!"

"Yeah, yeah," both sets of twins sneered waving a hand dismissively. "You keep telling yourself that."

All three girls of the Zuka Club scowled, and then they stood up and, with much difficulty, shuffled through the garden, knocking over a few flower pots along the way. As soon as they disappeared around a corner, I sighed glad that they were finally out of my hair. Now, I could return home and pass out on my bed. After what I went through this afternoon, I was exhausted!

"Thanks for showing up you guys," I spoke, turning to them. "Of course, you wouldn't have come if it hadn't been for Haruhi."

"We'd show up either way," Kyoya spoke, striding up behind me.

I turned to him and smiled. "Well, I'm glad you all did. I thought for sure I'd be dressed in drag practicing every hour for some upcoming play."

"It was nothing really," Kyoya answered. "After all, where else could we find a personal chef?"

There goes the moment. Shattered like stained glass that had been destroyed by a baseball flying straight through it. Why did it always seem that when I got close to seeing a side of Kyoya I never saw, he goes back to being the bad guy? Well, he was after all. Nothing but a no-good, rotten, businessman. That's all I've ever known, and seen, him as, so that was all he was ever going to be.

I scowled, and folded my arms across my chest. "Why is it that everything has to come back to the whole 'personal chef' thing?"

"Because where else would I get the money for your debt?" the Shadow King inquired.

With that, he whirled around on his heel directing everyone back through the limos. I watched as the hosts, plus Meghan and Jenna, filed out the gate, which Kyoya opened; however, I stay behind as I glare at him.

"Selfish, heartless, bastard..." I mumbled.

At that moment, everyone froze and turned towards me, including Kyoya, with either looks of confusion or shock etched on their faces. I swallow hard as I gazed around at everyone realizing that I had said that loud enough for everyone to hear.

"Excuse me?" Kyoya inquired.

I regained my composure, and continued to scowl up at the Shadow King. "You heard me, and that's all you are. You're a worm, Ootori. A heartless worm. A cold, selfish, heartless worm! Human beings have a thing called emotion, which you obviously don't have because you've practically gotten rid of yours! You don't care about anyone but yourself! And you'll only do what you can for personal gain, especially personal gain of your family's stupid company! Everyone else is just scum on the earth to you, just people you can use! Are we not your friends? Or are we just your tools, Kyoya?"

"Of course we're all friends, K.C.," Tamaki stammered nervously, not wanting to add more fuel to the fire.

"Buzz off pea-brain!" I snapped, glaring daggers in his direction. "He used you too!"

Tamaki's eyes widened with shock as he glanced from between the both of us.

"Katherine," Kyoya hissed warningly as his piercing glare never left me.

"What? Didn't think I knew?" I growled, turning my attention towards him. "It's in your stupid little black notebook. Yes, I read what you wrote about everyone, senpai." I sighed and glanced down at the ground. "You used everyone to get to their parents to make business with their companies. Hell," I added, looking back up at him with eyes beginning to fill up with tears. "You even used your own best friend! You're nothing but a heartless monster, Kyoya!"

A dead silence fell among the group, as everyone looked from one another. My gazed stayed glued to the Shadow King's, while he did the same to mine. It was a mere stare-off between just the two of us, while everyone else stood around waiting for something to happen. After what felt like hours, the Shadow King averted his gaze and adjusted his glasses.

"Kyoya...?" Tamaki asked warily.

He didn't answer. Instead, with a hand shoved in his pocket, he turned around on his heel and strode through the gate towards one of the parked limos out in the parking lot. I glared at his back while he traveled to his limousine alone, while everyone one else stared as the black door slammed closed. The vehicle came alive, and then began rolling out of the school's parking lot. I glared at Kyoya's limo until it disappeared down the highway, but never turned my gaze back to the group.

"K.C.?" Haruhi's voice broke through the silence as her hand rested on my shoulder.

Growling, I shrugged her off and walked towards the remaining limos. I didn't feel like talking to anyone at the moment as I stormed into the parking lot. Suddenly I came to a halt as I gazed around. It was a good hour from Lobelia back to the apartments by car, and I sure didn't want to walk all the way back if it took longer; plus, it was dark out.

I groaned and turned back to the group, who was still rooted in their place. "So, who's taking me home?"

*long whistle* Daaaaaannnnnggg... K.C.'s sure knows how to tell people off.

K.C.: That jerk deserved it...

Hey, come on people can change.

K.C.: Kyoya's not a person... he's not even human...

*sighs* Okay, well, hope you guys enjoyed it! Rate and review!

Sneak Peak for Chapter 37...

I hoisted the box of props and made my way out of the clubroom. Like always, I was glad that my work at the club was finally finished, of course, it was only Tuesday, so I had a while before the weekend, where I could relax, watch some television, draw, work on my scrapbook... I sighed thinking of all the things I could do. The week really hand't been my week.

Just like back during the second sememster, Kyoya and I were cold towards each other. I didn't regreat what I told him back during the night at Lobelia, but God knows he deserved to her it! Forget even confessing my feelings to him! He wouldn't even give a care in the world, unless he could use me like everyone else. I scoffed at the thought. He probably had his own little nifty tool box where he had everyone in it.

As soon as I packed the box in the storage closet, I turned around and began making my way to the front entrance. All I wanted to do was go home and stretch out my aching muscles before working my brain until midnight with loads of homework.

"K.C.!" a voice cried out, breaking my thoughts

Curious, I stopped and turned to the voice only to fin that it was Kazuki rushing down the hall towards me. It had been three weeks since Kazuki and I played together in Music Room 2, and we would pass by each other in the halls and chat; of course, most of the time, Zuki would walk me to my next class. He was like any other typical gentleman in this aristocratic school; but, it was always so nice of him to offer.

"Hey, Zuki," I spoke as he approached me.

"Hey, listen, K.C.," he spoke. "I was wondering if you were doing anything this weekend."

I stared up at him puzzled. Why would Zuki want to know if I was doing anything? Was he planning on throwing me some kind of party or something?

"No..." I answered slowly. "Not that I know of. Why ask?"

"Well, uh," he began lamely. Kazuki paused as he rubbed the back of his head with his hand as he looked away. "I was just wondering if... you wanted to go out with me on Saturday."

With that, he faced me with a casual smile, and I stared up at him wide-eyed. My first real date! And Kazuki was a really great guy, so nice and chivalrous... But, I wasn't entirely sure. Well, if starting a relationship with Kazuki was going to help my put Kyoya behind me, then I might as well accept it.

"Sure, Zuki," I answered with a smile. "What time?"

"How about I pick you up around 3:30pm?" Zuki inquired. "We'll grab something to eat, and go see a movie."

"Sounds like a plan! Can't wait until then."

Replies to reviews from previous chapter: (WOOOOO HOOOOO! 19! 19! 19! NEW RECORD!)

Elena: Hey, thanks for point all that stuff out, and I'm glad you're enjoying the story! The thing about Kyoya and his dad... we'll I'm kinda keeping this fic a little more close to the manga more than the anime, but it's going to have some references from both. So, yeah.

i'mthenewCAKEPIG: First off... SQUEEE! DAVID ARCHULETA! Yay! I love his song "Crush"! In fact, I think you just might have given me a song idea...^.^ The convention was a blast! Kyoya or Kazuki, who will she choose? Stay tuned!

HarutaYari: I'm sad that I completely missed you at the con! But, oh well! There's always next year! Thanks! And yes, Katherine let's her emotions get the better of her most of the time.

silverrain1312: Yes, it's always a mystery of what secrets lie in that little black book of his... Yayz! The con actually did me some inspiration for upcoming chapters, so YAY for no fillers! The con was a blast, and I loved meeting Vic in person ^.^

KaseyKay10: Thanks!

Snow'n'Cupcakes: Yeah... sorry about that... I've kinda run out of ideas for Taylor... All in due time the answers will unfold.

E.M. Megs: You know what's funny? I didn't realize until ten chapters within the story that Katherine and Kyoya's name start with K... then, there's Kimiko... and now Kazuki... Yeah, this is all un-intended irony...

Aurora-16: I'll be sure to schedule both Kyoya and his prissy little fiancé with a but whoping from you and Maya ;). God knows he deserves it!

Takara Rose Oizumi: :)

AllyraMortlock: Yeah Kyoya and s*** himself doesn't really seem to fit XD Oh, yes, the hosts will find out about him in due time... The con was a blast! Sadly, I still haven't had the time to upload the pics onto my DeviantART page...

BunnyNinja: Yay! I'm glad. Kyoya likes to keep tabs and notes, so he's more of a note-taker in class compared to the typical conversationalist. lolz

SargentAngua: Poor Kyoya... he definitely needs a butt-whoop! I'm trying to make it go to 40 chpt. (not including the Author's note in Cpt. 34), so yes, this story will be ending soon... :'(.

xXanimeluver15Xx: Yay! You're back! New characters, new drama. That's what I always say... What better way to heat up the story than have him engaged to her? All mysteries will be solved in due time. ;) Yeah, you'll notice with typical Ouran fics, there's always something new to expect. But, I like surprising you all, it keep you wanting more! haha! Thanks, it was a blast!

Arianna Mitoko: THanks!

Toni Heart: Yeah, I know Kingdom Hearts. It's been a while since I played that game though...

xxNishaLubsYew: 1). I'm not so great with writing lemony stuff... (2). Well, reality hurts sometimes... (3). Awww, I'm sure she'd appreciate that! (4).Totally slapped by not only K.C., but me too! (5). There will be violence when it's called for! ;) Thanks!

perfect-pisces: Thanks!

Moonlight's Shadow Warrior: Thanks! Yes, K.C. has a tendency to let her emotions take over (totally opposite of Kyoya of course XD). Thanks again!

Lydia kyoya: Thanks!