Two Worlds Collide: Book 1: A New World

by Dark Waffle

AU. Book 1 of the Two Worlds Collide Trilogy! Kurata Sana, a girl with dreams to become a famous singer. Hayama Akito, a boy with a sole purpose to protect his King. Both from different worlds, but somehow, somewhere their fates were connected to each other. With two worlds colliding, both teenagers learn they need to rely on each other more than they think.

15. Book 1: Chapter 14: Christmas Party 2

A/N: Happy Halloween! I hope you're ready for this chapter! It's going to be a good one! I don't want to make my Author's note too long so just read my ending remarks yeah? Okay!

Also, thank you to first time reader and reviewer darkangel1326 for such a lengthy and fantastic review! You honestly made my heart swell with joy! I feel like I've actually gotten somewhere with this story! So thank you thank you thank you! For all your kind words!

Thanks to my regular reviewers thank you! I love you all :') I'm really hoping to get to 100 reviews by the end of this book. So I'm going to do my best by improving and giving you guys a story worth reading!

And I don't own any characters, songs, or references made in this chapter. All that belongs to me is my OC's and plot.

Anyway, to the story!

P.S. I don't own Kodocha or any music in this.

'Thoughts'
"Speech"
"Flashback/Dream"

Two Worlds Collide: Book I: A New World: Chapter 14: The Christmas Party Part 2

-O-

"You mean it's like, 'If at first you don't succeed, try, try again.'"
-Susan Walker (Miracle on 34th Street)

-O-

The room was engulfed in silence. Not a sound was made or heard. The snow continued to fall silently outside as the ensuring tension grew in the four walls of the chaotic room. Brown paint dripped onto the stage as a mouth gapped open. It was safe to say that everyone stood goggle-eyed, except for a certain guest that made a late arrival.

Caught in shock, she didn't realize the thickness of the brown substance as her outfit clung to her bodice. Her once readied hair was now damp on her head and her outfit now ruined.

No one breathed a word as she reached up to wipe her face. The brown paint was never ending. She felt encased in a nightmare. There was no escape from this humiliation. The farther she attempted to run, the more the brown paint consumed her.

"This is most def going on the school's newspaper!" shouted a random voice as he clicked on his camera at the figure on the stage and burst into fits of laughter.

At that moment, laughter engulfed the room and scattered shutter sounds were being clicked.

Dark, golden yellow eyes never left those perplexed hazel eyes. She stood in complete shock and watched as the voices echoed in the walls of the heavy room. He turned away and slipped away into the crowd unnoticed.

Ayumi was absolutely livid. The wound she was inflicted earlier was bleeding once again as she stood in front of the crowd. Her emotions were high and she felt herself panic. This was not supposed to happen. She was supposed to be standing over Kurata Sana, laughing at her pathetic state as she was covered in paint. She was supposed to be the crowned victor. She was supposed to show who held the power.

But she lost.

Kurata Sana beat her at her own game. Hitorashi thought she played her cards well. She thought that Kurata would play the wrong hand, but it seemed she took the draw and lost. All her chips went to Sana and she was left with nothing.

How would people react to this? Would her reputation be tarnished?

She sat in her own mess, feeling more alone than she ever had in her life.

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Sana cringed as the screech filled the room as the endless laughter continued. She watched as the blonde haired maiden stood pathetically in paint. She felt guilt tug at her heart as the blonde attempted to walk off stage but only managed to slip and fall down.

She towered over and felt superior to those around her. She was considered the queen of the school. She was always the one to put punishment on her 'people'. It was ironical how the situation turned out. The roles switched and the queen fell before her very kingdom. Her tyrannical rule ended with the people taking control of the situation.

But this was not what Sana wanted. She didn't want to win this war. She didn't want to take reign. She wanted to settle this peacefully. She wanted to live harmonious with everyone. It didn't bring her great satisfaction to see her tormentor at her knees. She was not raveled by the state of distraught the notorious blonde sat in. It was quite the opposite. She was piteous towards the girl. Coming from a world where she was given everything but the love of a family, she knew that deep down inside Hitorashi Ayumi was not evil. She knew that Hitorashi Ayumi only inflicted the pain she felt inside her to others. She knew that Hitorashi Ayumi only wanted to be loved but was scared to be left alone again.

Too occupied with capturing Ayumi at her downfall, no one noticed but a handful of people when Kurata Sana walked towards Hitorashi Ayumi and fell at her knees to come face to face with the humiliated blonde. Tear stricken, the blonde glared at auburn haired teenager with hard eyes; eyes that reminded her of a certain blonde haired boy.

The crowd sufficed to a silence and jaws dropped.

Kurata Sana enveloped Hitorashi Ayumi in an embrace, leaving everyone in the room shocked and wide eyed. Naozumi smiled softly at Sana's surprising action. The anger he had in him vanquished. Tsuyoshi and Aya smiled as well as they watched their favorite auburn comfort the notorious blonde.

"Wh-what are you doing?" The grey eyed girl muttered in surprise. Sana felt the sticky, adhesive substance transfer to her own clothing, but ignored it as she smiled. She pulled back and smiled sadly at Hitorashi Ayumi.

"You don't deserve this. No one deserves this type of humiliation." With a thin line replacing her smile, Sana pushed herself up and looked into the crowd of her guests.

"Did you all get the picture you wanted?" Some nodded. "Do you feel better about yourselves because now you can put her-" she pointed back at the grey eyed girl, "through the same pain she's put you through?"

Whispers scattered throughout the room. Naozumi looked up at Sana as he leaned against the small stage. His gentle, distressed purple eyes looked up at her with concern.

"Sana, what are you doing?" Sana looked down at him with empathy and a smile that he's fallen in love with millions of time before.

"I know a lot of you feel a deep resentment for her right? I know that a lot of you want her to feel the pain she's inflicted on you I assume?" There were multiple nods around the room, even from the most unsuspected people.

"Kurata, if you're trying to prove a point, you've already done it! So just stop!" Ayumi shouted at the back of her sworn enemy.

"Would it make you feel better?" she asked, ignoring the blonde's plea.

"Yeah!" a few voices said collectively.

"Would it make you feel like you've won?" she pressed on.

"Yeah!" again, they repeated. Ayumi burned holes through Sana as she glared at the teenager speaking to the crowd.

"Why?"

The crowd was stumped and Ayumi was caught off guard.

"What do you mean why!" a random voice started, "Because she's hurt, tormented, and humiliated us all!"

"Yeah!" the sounds of the crowd came together. Sana nodded slightly.

"So once you've done to her what she's done to you, do you think it'll stop there? You think that all this hate and pain were throwing around is going to stop anything?" the crowd murmured in their vast thinking.

Tsuyoshi was impressed in the way Sana was handling the situation and herself. He's never met this Sana before; she's strong, assertive, gentle, yet firm etc. She is knowledgeable in grasping into the mind of her audience well. She lacked any fear and her eyes were strong with determination.

"Why do you care! Shouldn't you be against her!" a voice from the crowd asked. "She's always tormented you and made fun of you! Don't you want revenge?"

"Yeah! She made you out to be a fool and she tried dumping paint on you! If you ask me, I think she got what she deserved!" Ayumi flinched at the last comment. She had never really heard the things people have said about her like this. Sure, people have made small comments, but none to rash and open as of now. She felt the stabs of them all.

"That's the thing! Revenge is NOT the answer and this-" Sana's voice increased at their response while she pointed back at the blonde once more, "is not going to serve any justice."

"I admit, there have been times her venomous words have hurt me and almost discouraged me to stop pursing my dreams, but she doesn't deserve this!" She declared with a force that not many have seen.

"No one deserves this! Not you! Not me! Not her! Not anyone!" She took a deep breath, "No matter how vile someone may appear, there still human and they still have a heart."

"Yeah! A cold heart!" Everyone agreed.

Sana frowned and gritted her teeth. "A heart that holds emotions and feelings! Think of a time where you were so upset that you lashed out at someone! Think about with a sibling or a parent, even a friend!" The crowd hushed.

"We all have our flaws. It's what makes us humans."

Hitorashi Ayumi could feel the tears spilling down her cheeks. Not one person, not even Nonoko, had stood up for her the way that Kurata Sana was doing now. She had done everything possible to ruin and destroy the soul that was Kurata Sana. She tried for so many years to show everyone how she was as bad as the person next to them.

But that was the thing. Kurata Sana was not a terrible person. She was an obnoxious teenage girl who talked and cared too much. She was annoying and noisy, but she meant it all for the right reasons. To think that she would stand at her side at her downfall when she should be joining the crowd, rejoicing her victory astonished her.

But it wasn't her to do so. She was better than that. She was more mature than people thought her ought to be, then what she thought Sana was.

Hitorashi Ayumi felt her heart ache in pain as the shell of her seven year old self reappeared; that fragile, frightened little girl who was thrown into a political, corruptive world where no one would let her greave about the loss of her mother. That broken little girl who locked herself away because the only other person she could rely on had left her to deal with these conflicting emotions on her own.

The tears were endless as she sat in her own misery. She had always felt alone, but she never realized how lonely the world could be as she did now. Arms encompassed around her and she felt a sense of comfort that she had never felt before.

"Come on Ayumi, let's get you home."

The grey eyed girl looked up to meet with Unemoia Nonoko's dark blue eyes. They were gentle and kind. There was no foul intent. She could see the sincerity in them, the empathy and gentleness she had been seeking for. She looked to her left to see the crowd gazing at her to see her next move. She looked up slightly too see the same sincerity in Kurata Sana's eyes. A soft, small smile lay gracefully on her pink lips as Nonoko helped her up.

"Why did you do this Kurata? Why would you help me after all the torture I put you through?" Ayumi questioned feebly. Her tired, grey eyes sought for some kind of answer. Sana walked steadily towards the dismantled girl.

"Because I still want to be friends with you Ayumi." Sana showcased her famous, angelic smile. Staring goggle-eyed, Hitorashi Ayumi could feel the tears threaten to spill form her eyes once more.

She turned away and hid her face under her tainted, blonde, locks. Nonoko gave Sana a small smile while the auburn haired host gave her the thumbs in return.

"Come on Ayumi. Let's go." She guided her down the steps into the crowd as everyone made a pathway towards the front door. Ayumi suddenly stopped walking and the midnight haired girl raised a brow in confusion. The paint covered, dismantled beauty turned towards the stage where Sana was standing.

"You will always be an idiot Kurata." The crowd was appalled by Ayumi's last remarks, but Sana smiled in return. It was just like Hitorashi Ayumi to leave with the last word. She might be trampled and in the most embarrassing state anyone had seen her in, yet she was still her on the inside. Sana followed the pair until the hallway. The eyes of the crowd looked up to Sana to see her next reaction.

When she smiled, they figured it was just Sana being Sana. They didn't know that Sana was rejoicing inside. They didn't know that Sana accomplished a breakthrough in her relationship with Hitorashi Ayumi.

Sana couldn't shake off the incredible swelling in her heart as she watched them walk out of her house into the falling snow.

It was then she decided that Hitorashi Ayumi looked the most beautiful with a natural smile on her face.

"Alright guys! I think that's enough drama for one night! Don't you agree?" She shouted to the crowd as she placed her hands on her hips, tilting her head to the side.

"YEAH!" the crowd yelled in response.

"Alright Mr. DJ! Let's get this party on with once more!" She pointed towards the DJ who was now fortunately mixing music on his undamaged DJ system.

"You heard the lady! Let's party!"

-O-

She slumped against the wall in the empty kitchen as she exhaled deeply. Her mind was spinning and various emotions raced within her. Her feelings were conjured in a tight knit ball of emotions. This night was definitely one of the wildest nights of her life and it wasn't even twelve yet.

She felt like an idiot. She was warned over and over again about the obvious dangerous she would face if she invited Hitorashi Ayumi. Did she ever listen? Of course not. Sana was as stubborn as a mule and the thickest headed person anyone's ever met.

But was there any harm in aiding someone in need? She didn't think so. Hitorashi Ayumi might have been a spoiled, self-centered, selfish, vile, cunning, rich kid, but she was human. She had fears, she had flaws, she had her days, and she was just like anyone else. But Sana knew that all she needed was a friend. Someone she could turn too. Someone she could lean on when things turned for the rest. And friends were what she lacked. The only true friend that girl had ever had was Unemoia Nonoko.

Sana received many questioning stares, all pondering why she decided to help the notorious blonde, but many also knew that answer. Everyone knew that Sana was an angel sent from heaven; well that's what many thought. She always searched for the good in a person and did so by going through such lengths to show that they did.

Her exasperated sigh exhibited signs of exhaustion. Her eyes felt heavy and that burden on her shoulders seemed to drain her energy.

"Nice one Sana." Her tired hazel eyes shot up to stare into crystal blue eyes that shed comfort and warmth. He wore an inviting smile and his eyes gleamed in the dim light of the kitchen.

"I try my best you know." She returned a tired, worn out smile. Naozumi knew she was drained and that her energy was depleted. Her usual bright, cheery demeanor was dull and her eye bag's dropped; something he was not using to seeing. But he could see that in those exhausted eyes, she was still strong and the fire burned strong.

"Not many people would have done that." He walked over and slid down next to her. She laughed at his comment because she knew he was correct.

"I know but-" she sighed, "my mama has always taught me that in every darkness there is always a light. That if you give up, all the work and dedication you've put in will have gone to waste."

"If I didn't know any better, I would say that you've finally seen the evil in her." He commented as he scratched the back of his head.

"I saw it a long time ago, but I knew she wasn't evil. She was just lost. She needed someone to pull her out of the darkness." Sana stated with a soft smile. Her mind was not thinking about the notorious Hitorashi Ayumi though. Her mind trailed back to the cold, disheartened blonde that made his quick appearance to the party. His strong, pine scent intoxicated her and she felt strangely warm when she was enwrapped in his strong arms. A familiar, bitter feeling rushed into her; the same feeling she had when he entwined his fingers with her at the café a week or so ago.

"And of course you had to be the one to do it right?"

Sana turned towards her long time best friend. She silently observed him. Fresh. Clean. Well mannered. He was certainly the prince to a princess. His dazzling blue eyes outshone any other blue eyes she's encountered and his movie star smile was one in a million. He was always there; never left her once.

Her signature smile appeared on her pale face. "Of course."

He looked down and laughed. She had that savior persona in her. She was constantly reaching out for others and putting herself last.

"Hey Sana."

"Yes?" She turned towards him. He locked eyes with her; crystal blue staring deep into hazel. Her face was so innocent, so fragile. Her face was smeared with sight traces of brown paint and her hair was slightly dismantled. Her skin was flawless, except for those semi-dark bags under her eyes.

He gulped. The nerves coursed through his body. He felt the sweat forming on the back of his neck and the edges of his forehead. His throat was suddenly dry and he could feel himself choking on his own words.

"I'm just going to come out and say it." Sana listened intently to him. He seemed off and edgy.

"What is it Nao?" Her sweet voice sang to him. He felt his heart beat increase. It was now or never, he decided. What was the worst that could happen? She rejected him? That would break his heart.

"I l-"

"Sana!" He dropped his head in defeat. Interruptions were always his worse enemies.

The young auburn haired teenager looked up, dismissing Naozumi's almost confession, to see Tsuyoshi and Aya with worry sketched on their faces.

"Hi guys!" She jumped up almost immediately.

"Are you okay?" Tsuyoshi ran towards her, hauling Aya with him as their hands were locked with each other. Though irritated, Naozumi smiled at his two friends.

'About time.' He thought to himself.

"I'm completely fine Tsuyoshi! No need to worry!" The assertive tone in her voice and her reassuring smile disregarded his previous worries.

"Sana, are you sure you are alright?" Her light chocolate eyes were filled with distress as they gleamed in the dim light.

Sana sighed. Her eyes were soft and a small smile replaced her grin. "Yes, I'm fine."

Tsuyoshi observed the young auburn haired girl. She was exhausted. It was a hassle just getting it together, but watching over the entire guest, assuring their all pleased, being on her feet all night, and dealing with the Ayumi drama, it had to take a toll on the already stressed teenager.

"Maybe you should just end early?" He suggested, earning incredulous stares from the auburn maiden.

"ARE YOU CRAZY!?" Tsuyoshi flinched from the sudden outburst. "I'VE WORKED SO HARD FOR THIS PARTY FOR IT TO END EARLY!"

The brown haired boy chuckled nervously as he took one step back. Releasing his entwined hand from Aya's grip, he held out both his hands in front of him in defense. His nervous smile played on his lips to avoid the rage of a now infuriated Sana.

"Maybe that was a horrible idea." He laughed as Sana eyed him with daggers.

"Maybe you should rest up for a little while and we will keep an eye out down here for you?" Naozumi suggested as he placed a hand on her shoulder.

"I agree with Naozumi, Sana. You seem a bit tired, so it would only be beneficial for you." The timid girl spoke up as she leaned against Tsuyoshi subtly.

A small vein appeared on the corner of Sana's forehead and her anger hitched.

"That's ENOUGH!"

All three teenagers were goggle-eyed at her sudden outburst. Her face was shaded pink and her brows tightly knitted together. She felt herself heaving slightly and her lids felt extremely heavy.

"I'm FINE! I don't need to rest guys! I can finish out this party." She heaved once more, "You're all acting as if I'm deadly ill, which I'm not." Her frown formed into a small smile.

"I know you're all concerned, but really, I'm absolutely fine. I'm a big girl, I can handle myself." Her voice mellowed as she finished her rant.

"Alright Sana. We'll trust you with that." The teenage prodigy shined his movie star smile at her.

Tsuyoshi's eyes stood in concern. He had dealt with exhaustion problems to much in his past and knew of the dangers of running around while on low. She was a car on the brink of empty in her fuel. If her fuel ran out, she would stop in the middle of the road.

"But if you ever feel drowsy, exhausted, or overwhelmed, you tell us okay?" Tsuyoshi added as his face hardened. His medic instincts had kicked in and he was in "doctor mode" as the playful knight of courage would say.

"Yeah Sana. Don't over exhaust yourself. You might have all the energy in the world, but it will deprive someday and it seems that you are almost at your limit." The timid girl who now tightened her grip on Tsuyoshi's house said with a firm tone. But her eyes contradicted her words as the softness was still in her chocolate eyes.

Sana sighed with a smile. There worry for her was exaggerated, but she was lucky to have this group of friends. Naozumi and Aya had always looked out for her, but with the addition of Tsuyoshi, she always felt protected and loved.

"Alright! You have a deal!" She replied with a bright smile gracing her lips.

Sana rushed her way back into the rowdy crowd once more and her friends trailed behind her. With every negative, there was always a positive. It may be small and seem insignificant, but all the greatest notions, gifts, talents, etc. come from small things.

-O-

There were still a few minutes before midnight and last announcement of the night. Her body was screaming with exhaustion. Her arms had slumped and her legs were now numb. Her eyes felt heavy and burdened with sleep, but she refused to succumb to her inner desire. She leaned against the back wall behind the stage where the DJ was currently playing the Cha Cha Slide that everyone was currently participating in. A soft, tired smiled played on her lips as the events of the night laid fresh on her mind.

Finally, after all these years, she broke through Hitorashi Ayumi's defensive wall. As she stared into those lost, somber eyes, she realized that Ayumi was seeking the warmth of a friend. She had received the cold shoulder for too long. Her inner self was locked away in a cage that could not break free. Ayumi feared being left alone once more. She feared commitment, she feared love, she feared intimacy, and she feared the idea of trust. She did not know how to deal with these fears so she resorted to lashing out at others. With the lack of her mother and the lack of support from her estranged father, she was left all alone.

She finally understood after all these years. She understood why she chose to torment and hurt people. She thought she did, but she was only kidding herself and being naïve like Ayumi said she was. She tried to pretend that she understood, but in reality, she was being just as ignorant as the person next to her. As she thought about it, she now understood why Hayama told her she would never understand him. She could have said she did and lived in ignorance, but if she really had a chance to understand him, she would have to look deep inside and learn about the real him.

He showed up tonight.

Was he still here? She didn't know. But secretly, she hoped he was.

"Alright, alright! Settle down guys! So as amazing as this party has been, unfortunately, all good things must come to an end." Scattered courses of "awws" coursed through the room.

"But before that happens, our host-" the DJ said with excitement, "has a special announcement/surprise for you all!"

Walking with a proud smile on her face, Sana made her way on stage. A small, tired smile graced her face and though her outfit for the night was ruined earlier, she still looked well kept. All eyes locked on her as she took a deep breath.

"Thank you for coming tonight guys! I know things got a little out of hand earlier and I'm sorry for that, but thank you for being so awesome afterwards!"

The crowd broke into cheers and claps.

"But before we close this party, I would like to ask you all for a favor. Is that okay?"

"YES!" the crowd cheered back at her.

She beamed back at them. She then proceeded to grab the stool that the DJ brought over to her and sat down, adjusting the mike to her level.

"Sometimes, the best things we do in life, are the things we do when we muster just 20 seconds of insane courage. Sometimes, we hold back and stop ourselves from progressing because were too scared to do anything about it. " She continued as she grasped the mike and brought it closer to her mouth.

"Being fearless doesn't mean that were not afraid of anything, it just means that we were strong enough to overcome the fears placed in front of us."

Soft murmurs spread across the room. Naozumi was slightly confused. In what direction was she trying to take this? Tsuyoshi and Aya stood closer together, leaving the new couple on their feet.

"So I'm going to be fearless tonight." She paused, took a deep breath, and continued. "Will you let me sing for you?"

The whole crowd turned into an uproar! Sana's smile grew as the roar from the crowd increased. She had never had so many people support her singing. Then again, she hadn't really showcased her voice. Naozumi was thrown back a bit as he stood astounded in Sana's abrupt decision. Though, he was looking forward to listen to Sana sing more often. Tsuyoshi grinned like a mad man as he chuckled in anticipation. He was interested in Sana's singing.

A deep breath as the DJ brought the guitar to her hands. She leveled the mike once more. She fingers lay gently on the guitar. She strummed it once then tapped her guitar her three times to signal the DJ to play the background music at the third count. The background music started and the lights dimmed. She sat, shaking slightly, but ready.

Fearless

Taylor Swift

There's somethin' 'bout the way the street looks when it's just rained

There's a glow off the pavement, you walk me to the car

And you know I wanna ask you to dance right there

In the middle of the parking lot, yeah

A playful smile played on her lips as she sang the first verse. The cheers of the crowd were already riled up.

We're drivin' down the road, I wonder if you know

I'm tryin' so hard not to get caught up now

But you're just so cool, run your hands through your hair

Absent-mindedly makin' me want you

"These lyrics are beautiful." Aya commented as Sana was getting ready to hit the first chorus. Tsuyoshi nodded in agreement. "But I can't help but wonder who's the boy she's talking about in the song?"

And I don't know how it gets better than this

You take my hand and drag me headfirst, fearless

And I don't know why but with you I dance

In a storm in my best dress, fearless

Naozumi was entranced by Sana and the angelic voice that filled the room. He knew she was good, but he never thought she was as talented as she was. Her face looked so relax and calm. She was in tranquil as she sang, as if she had no worries. Her smiled was so divine and genuine. He was falling deeper in love with her every day.

So baby drive slow 'til we run out of road

In this one horse town, I wanna stay right here

In this passenger seat, you put your eyes on me

In this moment, now capture it, remember it

The crowd grew rowdier and noisier as she stood up and fixed the mike. She swayed her body with the music and played with ease, as if it was second nature to her. The smile radiated strongly and her glee spread throughout the room.

'Cause I don't know how it gets better than this

You take my hand and drag me headfirst, fearless

And I don't know why but with you I'd dance

In a storm in my best dress, fearless

Well, you stood there with me in the doorway

My hands shake, I'm not usually this way

But you pull me in and I'm a little more brave

It's the first kiss, it's flawless, really somethin'

It's fearless

"Did Sana write that song?" Tsuyoshi asked with slight curiosity.

"She usually writes all her music. Well, from what I've seen!" Aya commented.

'Cause I don't know how it gets better than this

You take my hand and drag me headfirst, fearless

And I don't know why but with you I'd dance

In a storm in my best dress, fearless

'Cause I don't know how it gets better than this

You take my hand and drag me headfirst, fearless

And I don't know why but with you I'd dance

In a storm in my best dress, fearless

As she strummed the last chord and her voice died down, the crowd was in uproar! The clapping filled the entire room. Whistling noises were thrown at the amateur singer as Sana blushed profoundly. Her heart was pounding in her chest loudly. Her ears were ringing with the shouts and cheers of the crowd. Her mind was spinning with the thrill of excitement. This was what she wanted, what she always wanted to experience, what she always dreamed of doing.

If she was to get that record deal with Miyamoto Records, she would be able to perform in front of not just a crowded room, but in front of thousands and thousands of people! She closed her eyes and imagined herself in front of thousands of people, chanting her name, cheering for her, screaming for more!

"Sana!"

Her eyes scanned the crowd as her classmates thrust their hands into the air. A vibrant smile played on her lips. She couldn't explaining the thrill in her, the excitement building up, the jitters in her stomach, but it was a great feeling and she never wanted it to cease.

"That was amazing!"

"Sa-na! Sa-na! Sa-na!"

She placed the guitar on the stool and ran down to meet with Tsuyoshi, Aya, and Naozumi. She embraced them with all her might, the beam on her face never faltering. She didn't know why, but she couldn't stop the tears from running down her face. They were neither tears of sadness nor tears of mourning; rather they were tears of joy. She mustered all her confidence and strength to cease her negative thoughts and play her newly written song. To witness the smiles and cheers first hand from her peers gave her a confidence boost that she wasn't aware she needed.

"That was incredible Sana!" Tsuyoshi exuberated with joy as he embraced her in a tight hug.

"I knew you sang well Sana, but I hadn't realized how much you have improved!" Aya commented as she encircled Sana next.

"I always knew you had that in you Sana. I'm sure there will be more from where that came from." The purple haired boy added as he jumped into the conversation. Sana threw herself at him, the person she found the most comfort in. Naozumi blushed slightly as Sana's grip on him tightened.

"I was so terrified I almost didn't do it! I almost backed out!" She rambled, Naozumi attempting to decipher what she was saying.

She pulled away, her disposition vibrant and florid. Her gleam sparkled in the dimly lit room. She felt on top of the world. It was the greatest feeling she had ever felt. She craved for this feeling, for this excitement, for this opportunity.

"I'm glad you did! You were great! We all agree!" The blue eye boy gave her a cheeky grin and she thanked them repeatedly. Courses of "Good job Sana!" or "You're amazing Sana!" and "We want more!" filled the room. She politely thanked everyone for their kind, encouraging words.

She needed to reassure herself she was ready for the competition. It was not going to be easy; in fact, it was probably going to be the most difficult challenge of her life. But after this moment, she was confident in her ability and assured herself she could compete with anyone of any caliber.

She was ready.

-O-

He ran with all his strength, clutching his abdomen as he hissed in pain. The piled snow was making it difficult for him to run and numbing his legs. He could feel his vision blurring and the darkness was enveloping him. He panted roughly as he exited the alley way. He turned his head both ways, assuring that he was not alone. He saw a few pedestrians lingering on the sidewalk, but not very many. It was Christmas Eve after all.

He cursed to himself as the pain increased. He looked down to see the blood oozing through his coat and onto his gloved hand. He stumbled as he attempted to run across the street to the bakery that was still open. As long as he could reach the bakery, he would be safe. As he stepped onto the icy street, his foot slipped and he felt himself falling backwards. He braced himself for impact and once it hit, he couldn't breathe. Tiny tears slipped through his roughly shut eyes as he tried to regain the loss of air. He felt as if someone was kicking his chest over and over. It was impossible to breathe. But he knew that in order to survive, he needed to get back up.

The streets were silent and empty. There was no sign of life, just the white snow growing as it fell from the sky. He pushed himself up though the pain was overwhelming. He seethed through his teeth as he finally emerged on one knee. He panted with exhaustion and clenched his fist. The bakery was just a few feet in front of him. If he could muster the strength to even crawl, he would make it.

"You insolent fool."

His eyes widen and he stopped dead in his tracks. His body froze, the pain long forgotten. Fear filled his body as the footsteps came closer to him. He gulped loudly as the eerie aura enveloped him. The smell of blood was fresh and it irked him to no ends. He wanted to vomit then and there. It was absolutely revolting.

"Did you honestly think you could escape?"

He pushed himself and crawled even though he knew the inevitable was coming. His fate was sealed when he shook hands with that monster. He never saw eyes so evil, so malicious, so cold and ruthless. He had encountered the worst criminals, but he was far worse. He was a demon from hell.

"I can smell your fear." His words were icy cold. "Good. You should be frightened."

"Get away from me you monster!" he screamed as he made it to the sidewalk. He turned his head towards the bakery, which was now closed. He cursed to himself. 'Dammit!'

"Monster? Hahahaha! That's too kind of you earth human!" his dark chuckle and evil grin enticed as he drew the dark violet blade from its jet black sheath.

The man on the floor shook in fear as the gleam of the radiant katana shined in the moonlight. It was beautiful and breathtaking. It was ironic how such a beauty carries the blood of thousands of slain men.

"I'm your deepest fears." He glowered as his onyx eyes narrowed. Suddenly, the man on the floor screeched in pain as his leg was disfigured from his body. He stared, petrified, of the now missing limb. The blood gushed from the clean cut as he rushed to stop the bleeding.

"I'm the one who creeps into your nightmares and torments you till you cannot sleep anymore." The man's eyes went goggled eyed and the pain was so unbearable he could not muster the strength to scream. He sat, languished and in insufferable pain.

He felt the breath of his soon to be killer at the edge of his ear. His voice was menacing, vile, so chilling, his bones froze in place. The man on the floor could only grip the cold snow as he lost feeling in his hands. Legless, he panted in complete horror.

"Please, I beg you-" he stuttered, his mind spinning. "I have children who need me."

He felt as if a thousand needles pricked at him as Matsumoto Ituko embedded his blade into the back of the man on the floor. A cold, hard look laid on Ituko's face as the man released a horrifying scream.

"I want to hear you cry in pain." He jammed the blade into the back of the man once more. The man let out a gurgling cry as the blood oozed from his mouth.

"I want to hear you beg for the mercy you will not receive."

Another stab, another cry.

A wicked grin expanded on his face as he watched the death of this filthy peasant with amusement. He found pride and joy as he watched life escape the eyes of the man. He hadn't had a satisfying kill like this since he arrived to this wretched filth land three months ago.

He lashed out at the body one more time, decapitating the man on the cold, bloody ground. The snow was absorbing the seeping blood and the pure, delicate substance was now tainted with a dark, crimson liquid.

He shifted his gaze to the full moon and smiled coyly. The blood shed tonight was just part of the cycle that was beginning its course. The cycle of darkness was coming and he was the one to begin it.

-O-

His body slumped to the couch as they just finished picking up the evident trash that would surely attract ants and other creatures. He released a tired sigh and laid his head back against the couch. He closed his eyes as the quiet enveloped him.

His body was screaming for sleep as exhaustion ate at him. But he wouldn't let her do all the cleaning herself. After all, it was his idea in the first place.

Tsuyoshi and Aya left fifteen or so minutes ago and he was ready to leave as well. He just wanted to be certain that Sana would be alright. She herself had a rough and eventful night. She was the one that was feeling it all.

"Naozumi?" she muttered softly as she walked in, dressed clad in her pajamas now. He poked an eye open and smiled tiredly at her. She grinned back as she made her way over and sat next to him.

"You really didn't have to stay so long. I could have just done it myself and finished tomorrow morning." Her voice hinted at slight guilt and worry. He rolled his eyes and chucked softly.

"You think I would let you endure all this madness by yourself? You're crazy Sana. You might have a lot of energy pent up in that tiny body of yours, but you're no superwoman and need rest as well."

She laughed as he expressed his constant worry. "You're too much sometimes Nao. You worry way too much for my liking." She winked to express her joking manner.

"I find that hurtful Sana." Sarcasm was heavy in his voice. She laughed lightly and he felt joy swell in him. Her laugh was so pure, so innocent. He reckoned the day that it would disappear.

He reached up with his hand and caressed her cheek. She stopped laughing and gazed deep into his crystal blue eyes. They were like tiny diamonds, sparkling in the sun. His eyes defined him; a sweet, charming young man who was polite and kind. There was no malice or any sign of discomfort. He was pure and real.

He pulled her closer to him, never leaving her eyes. Her soft, hazel eyes lured him in as he saw the sun that was Kurata Sana. Her innocence and genuine, soft hearted personality was evident, but one couldn't forget her boisterous and bubbly side either. It was all her different sides that made her who she was.

"Sana…" he whispered as his eyes closed softly.

His soft voice soothed her. She felt her eye lids close and leaned into Naozumi's touch. His presence was warm and inviting. Their breathing was both calm and collected. It kept her at ease.

"I care about you so much." He whispered into her ear. She smiled.

"I do too." She paused, hi heart fluttered.

"You mean everything to me Sana." His heart raced, the jitters in his stomach ate away at him.

"You also mean everything to me Nao. You always have and you always will." The auburn haired teenager pulled away from him and smiled genuinely at him.

"Sana, I love you." He said it with all his heart and confidence. He finally mustered the courage to reveal the secret that had been eating at him since they were eleven. He felt a huge burden fall of his shoulders, but instead, was replaced with dread as he awaited her response to his confession.

But he didn't know exactly what her reaction was. She stared at him for a minute to digest his words. She always told him she loved him, but in the friendship manner. It was never taken more than that. She didn't know why now would be any different.

"I love you too Nao!" she responded with much glee. He was astounded with how easy she responded. He would words as powerful as 'I love you' wouldn't be thrown around with such ease.

"You're the most amazing best friend I've ever had and I thank you for that! That's why I love you so much! You're such a great friend!" She threw him a reassuring smile. Her eyes full of honesty and sincerity.

His heart dropped to the bottom pit of his stomach and shattered. His smile fell and he felt his world crowning down on him. 'You're such a great huh?'

He forced a smile on his face as she giggled. She didn't understand the honesty of his words, the emotion and feelings behind them. She didn't understand the gravity of his love for her, his crave for her. She was naïve and dense as always when it came to love.

"Of course." A simple reply that he managed to squeak by. Being an actor teaches you to mask your emotions, to shield your true feelings, to quickly be able to put a façade that others will not be able to decipher.

He felt disappointment. He knew he shouldn't but he couldn't prevent the pain eating at him at this moment. Sana never meant to hurt him. He knew that despite all her flaws, she was not a contemptuous person. She was passionate and always kind. If she hurt someone, it was always unintentional. But he needed to leave. He couldn't face her smiling face, especially when it was for all the wrong reasons.

"Well it is late and I have to go." He pushed himself off the couch and stretched, a sad smile adorning his prince like countenance.

She jumped up with him, her energy on high though it had been a very exhausting night for both of them.

"Alright! Thanks for everything Naozumi." She embraced him tightly, his heart ached. He returned the hug as she muttered softly.

"You're welcome." The purple eyed star stepped away from her and headed towards the front door.

"Oh and Naozumi?" She called out to him. He turned his body slightly, facing her before he left her for the night.

"Merry Christmas." An authentic, candid smile adorned her facial expression. Her soft, hazel eyes shone in the dim light of the room. Though her profile was slightly messy and rugged looking, she still glowed.

"Merry Christmas Sana." He returned with his famous, movie star smile. He then made his way out the door and into the cold night.

Sana released a deep sigh and gathered her remaining strength to walk up stairs towards her room. Not a noise was heard except for her small footsteps. The house was deathly quiet for the first time since yesterday. Her body was feeling the deprivation of sleep and couldn't wait to get a great amount of rest.

-O-

After forcing herself up stairs, ripping the clothes off her body, and jumping into the shower, she was finally ready for bed. She first made sure to lock up the house to ensure her safety. She didn't want to be robbed of her innocence at the middle of the night by some random stranger. That would not do!

"Finally!" she sighed, "I can go to sleep!" The time on the clock that lay on the vanity table read 2:29.

Her eyes bulged and jaw dropped. Where had time go? She completely lost track of time and where it went. She had been so focused on this party that everything else seemed irrelevant to her.

"I must be completely out of it to not notice how late it is." She rubbed her temples as she sat on the comfort of her own bed.

"You're pretty stupid."

Sana's head whips almost instantly at the sound of the gruff voice behind her. Her eyes widen to the size of saucers, her jaw drops. She immediately jumps off the bed and reaches for the nearest item to protect herself with.

"Who's there!" she shouted.

"You wouldn't be able to defend yourself properly with that measly brush." A scoff from the cool, yet ragged voice.

The auburn haired maiden knew that voice. She squint her eyes to see the outline of his silhouette. His tall, broody profile fixed with the dark setting of her room. The only light visible was the petty moon rays peeking its way through the dark clouds and light curtains.

"Hayama?" her voice filled with disbelief.

He stepped into the moonlight, his hidden form now in full view. His blonde locks were raveled and wild as they usually were. His tanned face gleamed from the glow of the moon yet contrast with his dull golden eyes that were consistently empty. His countenance was stoic as always.

"Wh-what in the world are you doing here?" she sputtered, still in shock. "Nevertheless in my room you pervert!" her embarrassment increased as she thought about herself stripping down earlier with his presence in the room.

"I needed a quiet place to think." He replied coolly.

"There were other rooms in the house! Not just this one creep!" she exasperated as the blush crept on her cheeks.

"This was the only room where I knew would be undisturbed." Her blood boiled at his reply. She could feel him smirk at the end of his comment.

"You disturbed my peace! I feel violated!" she crossed her arms and huffed slightly.

"I didn't touch you idiot." His voice was so smooth, yet cold. His words were apathetic and distant. There was no underlining in his words, just straightforward.

"But you watched me as I stripped myself naked!" she countered moving her hands to her hips, arguing her valid point.

"I was actually sleeping." He muttered under his breath.

"You were what?" Sana rubbed her finger in her ear as if she was cleaning it.

"I fell asleep." It was almost as if the blonde haired teenager was embarrassed by it. His voice dwindled as he shifted his eyes away from her. The golden eyed boy leaned against the icy window and crossed his arms.

She was still in disbelief of his appearance. Too think he was still here, in her room, so casually conversing with her, as if they had been friends for years. The infamous Hayama Akito also made a quick appearance earlier when Hitorashi Ayumi attempted to cover her in paint. But he disappeared into the night shortly after. He had been hiding away in her room until now. She didn't understand the stoic blonde and his actions, his words, and his feelings.

"You fell asleep?" a slight giggle escaped her lips. He grunted as if he was embarrassed.

"What? I'm not allowed to sleep?" His golden eyes burned into her hazel eyes. They were pure, innocent, and pristine.

"Of course you are! It's just so strange to hear you say such simple things like this!" Her voice broke with joy. Though it was strange and unbelieving, she felt happiness fill her. All she sought for was a chance to have a real conversation with the blonde haired boy. And now that she had it, she wasn't quite sure in which way to take it.

Silence filled the room as Sana's laughter died down.

"We might be so called 'friends' but I don't care about you."

She flinched inwardly as she recalled the cold, harsh words he said to her a little over a week ago. They had stung her badly. She was hurt by his comment, but it made her realize that she could only do so much until it was time to stop trying.

"What you did was stupid." She shot her head up and looked at him with puzzlement.

"Excuse me?" she crept closer to him.

"You pardoned Hitorashi. That was idiotic of you." He repeated. She furrowed her brows and marched up to the silhouette that was Hayama Akito. She glared daggers at him, looking up to his face.

"And how was the idiotic of me?" Her face was glowering with anger. She poked him in the chest, which was rather hard.

He crouched down slightly to her. "You proved to her that you wouldn't do anything to repent the pain she's inflicted on you."

"Revenge serves no justice Hayama." She leaned into him, their lips only mere inches apart. They both stared heavily into each other's eyes.

"For you that may be so, but for her it could be different."

"I think she had a change of heart tonight." He scoffed, shaking his head slightly as he pulled away from her.

"You're being ridiculous." He refuted, "No one changes over night."

"That may be true, but I think it's safe to say that Ayumi won't terrorize people anymore." She smirked, reassuring her answer.

"And if you're wrong?" he inquired, "What will you do then? Will you continue to cower to her? Or will you stand against her?"

Sana pondered on his question. So many thoughts raced through her mind, especially how easy it was to converse with Hayama at this moment. He was completely different from the boy she met three months ago; even from the boy she argued with last week.

"I'm not wrong." Her confident grin replaced her smirk. She was sure of Ayumi's realization.

He grunted and turned away from her. Her confidence reminded him too much of hers. That smile she wore was exactly that of hers; so real and so pure.

"You're so stupid." He muttered.

"I'm stupid?" she questioned, with slight irritation.

"Yes. And naïve. You're also a fool." The blonde haired boy towered over the auburn haired girl easily. But she was not intimidated by his size; rather, it compelled her to challenge him. She didn't fall victim to him so easily.

"You just enjoy mocking me don't you?" A growl escaped her lips, which oddly he found himself attracted too.

His lips curved into a smirk. "I could go on but I'd rather not."

"Don't act so hollier-than-thou Hayama!" Her finger embedded itself into his steel hard chest.

"You don't exactly qualify for most likely to brighten your day."

"And you are?"

She glared at him once more. "I think I'm a much better candidate than you could ever be."

He narrowed his eyes at the girl. She wore a satisfying smirk knowing she got him there. The weird part of it all was that she was enjoying herself. At 2:40 in the morning, she was having a grand time arguing with Hayama Akito. Though they were belligerent with each other, she felt at peace and enjoyed the time she spent with him.

But that didn't mean she didn't have questions. She had a plethora amount of unanswered questions. She knew it was wise to wait until the time was right to ask them.

"You pulled me away from the paint didn't you?" Sana asked with full seriousness.

The blonde haired captain expected this question to arise sooner or later, along with many other questions. He was not quite sure whether or not he would answer them all, hell, he was still debating whether or not he would answer this question.

"Yeah." She was taken aback by his sudden forwardness. He was acting much different tonight then the previous times they had conversed.

"Why?" She wanted to know. She was dying to know.

"You ask too many questions."

Her cheeks puffed and turned red. "That was only my second question!"

"I don't understand you Hayama." She commented as she walked away from him, plopping onto her comforter.

"Enlighten me." His voice drowned into the dark, the moon long gone as the dark heavy clouds hid it from the world.

"It's as if you're putting on some sort of façade. You act so cold towards everyone, yet you do things that make people think twice about you." She sighed. "There's more to you then just that stoic act you put on."

He was surprised at her thoughts on him. It sounded as if she had spent time thinking these things out. Truth was he didn't want her to know that he thought about her often and was frequently worried for her. Why? He couldn't answer that question himself.

"Take now for instance," she gestured with her hands, "we were having a normal conversation, well as normal as we could get." He smirked at her last comment.

"Just last week, we wouldn't be able to uphold a simple conversation like this." Sana gazed deep into his golden orbs. Once again, they were dull and lacked shine. She could already imagine how magnificent his eyes would be if they shined with life.

"And not to mention, you're being strange."

"Strange how?" a brow rose at this comment.

"Well you're here aren't you?" he nodded.

"And you're giving me the wrong idea."

Her eyes saddened at her last comment, her mind obviously thinking back to the incident at the café. He didn't fail to notice the distress in her eyes and her sudden shift in tone. It bothered him slightly to see her so dampen.

Sana began to laugh slightly at her own stupidity. "I feel like such a baka."

"You are a baka." Sana shifted her gaze from her hands to him. Hayama's eyes were dead set on hers once again. But this time, Sana noticed that his eyes were different. She could sense more than just his usual coldness.

"To answer your question from earlier, I did it for you." He said in almost a whisper.

"You what?" Shocked by the words that came out of his mouth, Sana stared at him in incredulity.

"Nothing." Akito could feel his cheeks burn and he prayed that he wasn't exhibiting any form of blush.

Sana felt her cheeks turn red with Hayama's comment. She heard his comment loud and clear, but she desired for him to repeat it one more time just to clarify her suspicions.

Silence filled the room once again. Sana felt her body tingle with his words. Her heart raced slightly and she could feel the small smile curving at her lips. This was a different from anything else she's ever felt. She didn't know why, but she was happy that those words came from him. It made her feel as if she had a sort of connection with Hayama that no other had the privilege of acquiring.

Kurata Sana made him feel different. He had never meant met a girl who frustrated yet intrigued him so much. Most of the girl's he met or encountered had all fathomed over him and his captain status and desirable features. His thoughts would trail off to her from time to time and sometimes he would linger on her longer than he should have. He didn't understand these emotions brewing within him. For the first time in many years, Hayama Akito found himself a stop light, where he had no knowledge of what his next move would be.

"You're such a mystery Hayama Akito." The hazel eyed teenager commented as she stood up and walked over to him. A smile was plastered on her face.

"You're not the only one who has said that too me." The captain commented.

"I know," she winked, making him quirk a brow, "but I'm going to be the first one too figure you out Hayama."

There was that confident smile again. She was sure of herself. Her eyes were strong with determination and confidence. Akito's body felt odd. He found himself once more, strangely attracted to this confident Sana. She captivated him though he hated to admit it. It was something about her brave eyes and bold smile that captured him. He felt the need to get closer to her, to be engulfed by her.

"Many have tried."

"But I'll be the first to succeed, I promise you that!"

He smirked infamously. Unaware to Hayama, Sana was feeling the same thing. She found herself oddly attracted to Hayama. May it be the mysterious aura that surrounded him or the overconfident personality of his, she was drawn to him.

And for what could have been the millionth time that night, both teenagers found themselves gazing into each other's eyes. Sana wanted to break those walls Hayama built. She wanted to see light enter the dull eyes of his. She desired to see his eyes glow and a smile curve on those lips of his. She wanted to get to know the boy behind the mask.

Hayama felt himself lean into her. It was as if he lost control of his body and it was functioning on its own. He usually had control and assured himself in a plan. But tonight, he had no plan. He went in blind, letting things unfold as they had occurred.

He thought back to his conversation with the king before he was assigned this mission. The king had told him it was destiny to take this mission that he was supposed to take over the role his father left behind, to fill in his father's legacy.

The blonde haired captain was determined to set his own legacy, not the one left behind for him to fill in. He knew he wouldn't have been a captain if it wasn't for his dedication and persistence. It wasn't fate that had him become the captain of the 6 Royal Knights of Alagasean. It was his drive to complete the goal he had set for himself, the goal he set for his fellow knights, the goal he set for her.

It was not destiny for him to meet Kurata Sana. He caused it to happen. It was not chance that she had be so enthralling to him. He let himself be intrigued by her.

So when he suddenly placed his lips on hers, it was he who caused it, not fate.

A/N: How you like them apples? ;D I know you all probably hate me right now! Blasted cliffhangers! Other than that, I hope you all enjoyed this chapter after 3 months absence! I didn't think Senior Year would be so stressful. I'm overwhelmed by work. I don't know how I managed to find time to actually finish this up, but I did and wha la! It's out! As I said on part 1 of this chapter, the story is going to move in a completely different direction.

I showed you a bit of my OC Matsumoto Ituko. I just wanted to remind you all he was still out there and as you can tell, he's as blood thirsty as usual. Be ready for him to make a big appearance soon too. And poor Naozumi. Sana left him hanging as usual. Did you guys think I was mean there? I tried not to be. He'll get his chance soon enough.

To be honest, I wasn't sure if I was going to input Sana singing, but I felt as if I had to because her singing career is going to be a major focus in the upcoming chapters as well. I just hope it wasn't too corny. It was my first time so let me know what you think. I picked Fearless because Sana is fearless. She's not afraid to stand up for what she believes in. Even if you watch the anime and read the manga, you know Sana is brave and though she doesn't always know what to do, she's not afraid to do what she believes is right.

So without further ado, I will close here and say thank you for reading and please review. I would love to know your input on this chapter. I worked hard on it. As always, here's your preview for the next chapter!

Till next time!
-Dark Waffle

Preview:
The holidays are coming to an end and the New Year is right around the corner. Sana is left confused by Hayama's actions, which distracts her from focusing on the Miyamoto Records contest, whose deadline is approaching quickly. Meanwhile, Tsuyoshi receives a great opportunity that could benefit him in the long run. Not to mention, school is arriving soon and that leaves Sana to deal with the aftermath of the Ayumi incident. How will Sana handle the pressure all at once?

Next time on Two Worlds Collide:

Book 1: A New World: Chapter 15: Aftermath