Time has passed unnoticeably. Days and nights have come and gone fast, but those days were dawdling when people get through the day. And those days were slow indeed for one such person. The number of days wasn't tracked for a certain young blonde girl; at least, that is what she thinks. Running between daily school and remote jobs from her employer was pretty much a hectic achievement.

But by now, she has found herself sitting in the back of the bus. A bus set course for a bit of school trip. Well, quite a long school trip, to be exact. The bus was filled by her entire class, including her classmates, Akari, Chinatsu, and Himawari. A teacher and another stranger were on the bus as well. The teacher was Kitamiya-sensei. As for the stranger… we're not talking about the bus driver.

The stranger was none other than George, the chief security and Sakurako's friend. It may seem odd for the students, Kitamiya had assured them that he's their security for the school trip. But still, his appearance was quite a surprise for Himawari. Even when the students still feel uncomfortable with George, they seem in awe of those muscles underneath his dark blue suit. Sakurako was sitting between Himawari and George, while Akari and Chinatsu sat at the seats on their front right. Kitamiya, the teacher, sat down on the front left seat with another student.

The journey was still long as they can barely hear the revving engines and wheels from outside the window. That alone was enough to help Sakurako to sleep along the way for a little while. The blonde is still feeling sleepy but can't sleep again. Of course, she has opted to stare at the window on her right, lost inside her world.

"Sakurako?"

Sakurako immediately snaps and gradually turns her eyes at Himawari. "Are you alright?"

The blonde merely wipes her right eye. "I'm just… a little sleepy."

"I assume you didn't sleep well," George guessed, raising an eyebrow behind his sunglasses.

"I didn't sleep," Sakurako responded, her head stooped low.

"Hm?" Akari turned her head behind her. "Why didn't you?"

"I can't sleep," Sakurako replied with a shook.

Himawari sighs, upset by her words. "Those drinks weren't enough for you?"

Sakurako softly leans her head against the seat. "I didn't drink them."

"Wait," Chinatsu overheard the conversation. "What drinks?"

Sakurako stares at Chinatsu for a while and wisely opts not to tell her. "Medicines. I spent the night reading a novel."

"You just pulled an all-nighter to read stories?" Kitamiya also overheard the conversation. "I know you just want to read, but that's not healthy, you know?"

Sakurako breathes out raggedly and shuts her eyes. "I know. It's getting repetitive."

"Well, I heard some teachers said you weren't pretty energetic in the morning like you should," Kitamiya added, giving an unamused look at the blonde. "Is there something troubles you?"

"Nothing, it's just…." Sakurako trailed off, becoming confused at her 'unreliable' memory. "What was it again?"

"Insomnia, Sakurako," George added in her sentence.

"insomnia?" Kitamiya raised her eyebrows but was enough to tell she's surprised. "It sounds like you have a bad sleeping habit. I suggest you get your sleeping habit fixed up."

"I don't really think the problem is my sleeping habit," Sakurako disagreed. "But if you say so…."

Kitamiya furrows her eyebrows. "What's with the glum look?

"Hm?" Sakurako raised an eyebrow. "What's glum?"

"You don't look excited," Himawari added. "Is what she meant."

"Oh," Sakurako then turned at the teacher. "Nothing. Just waiting for the destination."

"Don't you feel boring?" Chinatsu asked, resting above the head seat.

"I like the silence," Sakurako replied nonchalantly. "Wished I had a book to read."

"Ah, about that…." Akari pulled out a small book from her handbag. "I have a manga with me. Do you want me to lend it to you?"

"Sure," Sakurako kindly took the book with a flat nod. "Thanks for the book."

"No problem, Saku-chan," Akari replied with her cute smile.

The blonde then looks over to the teacher, who looks like she has an interest in the former black ranger. "Your name is George, wasn't it?"

"Yes, ma'am," the man replied firmly with a nod.

"Can I ask why you want to volunteer as our security for the trip?" Kitamiya asked the former ranger.

"I heard from Sakurako about the school trip," George replied in such confidence. "There was not much to do for the next few days, so I called Ms. Nishigaki. I like to take this opportunity to explore the place as well."

"Well, that is all well and good," Kitamiya commented. "But I don't really think it's necessary to have extra security members with us teachers tagging along the trip."

"I know," George agreed. "But you might like an extra hand with how many students we have to pay attention to."

"Hmm, we do have some troublesome girls running around," Kitamiya replied. "I appreciate the help then. Just make sure you don't fall asleep on your duty."

Sakurako almost looks up off of the book; almost. "Funny you say that to an Army Ranger."

The blonde girl didn't budge, but it surely caught Akari, Chinatsu, and Kitamiya off-guard. Kitamiya looks as cool as ever, but she surely didn't expect it, not surprised. George didn't react much; it wasn't something unique to him, but he knew his skills weren't rusted yet.

"You were a soldier?" Chinatsu asked him.

"It's ranger, miss," George corrected. "And yes, I was."

"Interesting," Kitamiya commented. "I assumed you had done a good service before retiring."

"I did, ma'am," George replied with a nod. "And it was honorable discharge, not retired."

"I see," Kitamiya nodded slightly. "So now you work as security for a living."

"Yes," George responded.

"I'm surprised that you even join us a security," Himawari stated with her arms crossed. "When we are supposed to enjoy the trip."

"I can do a bit of both, Himawari," George assured her. "If I were still in Afghanistan, I would only worry about the desert and the heat."

Sakurako adds in, not looking up from the book. "Not because you will be get shot at?"

"Sakurako," Kitamiya warned as she's annoyed by her remark.

"Well," George smiled as he straightened his back. "That's my number one reason I can't enjoy nice things in Afghanistan."

Kitamiya didn't think George happily agrees with her. "Nevermind then, Sakurako."

"-And now for today's headlines:"

They all turn their heads to the TV. Looks like a couple of students in front of them have decided to get themselves a remote. While everyone in the back watches the TV, the first headline was about a building that collapsed due to poor infrastructure, dangerous materials, and cheap funding. George even snorts at the headline after hearing who decided to build it was a certain irresponsible millionaire.

"The fact that this building doesn't collapse until now," George commented. "This just shows how greedy people can be."

"What material that person used again?" Sakurako asked, distracted for a moment.

"I think I heard asbestos was thrown in there," Kitamiya responded. "That thing's been banned for construction."

"Can't believe that guy even rushed the construction," Himawari shook her head and sighed disappointingly. "Does he not care for the people that live in there?"

"That guy only cares about money," Chinatsu added with a tone of disagreement. "Why did he even bother about building safety in the first place?"

Akari seems silent for a moment but awkwardly smiles. "He should be in prison, right?"

"I hope that's what really happens," Sakurako replied emotionlessly, eyes glued onto the TV. "But I doubt it would be for long."

"Agreed. With that much money, he may as well convince people to release him from jail," Himawari asked her.

Sakurako agrees with a nod but remains silent to focus on the news. The reporter continues on to the following news. That one caught her off-guard. Felt like the news just slaps her eyes with a rolled-up newspaper. Thankfully, she didn't show her reaction that much. On the other hand, George seems chilled out about the reported news.

"Last evening, there has been a deadly shootout inside the slums north of Takaoka City, Toyama prefecture. The shootout happens during the late evening when most of the homeless people stay indoors. According to the witnesses who avoided the line of fire, the slums were visited by several compromising people who hadn't yet known their motives. The shootout happened so suddenly, forcing people to hide for safety inside their shelter. Stating that the witnesses cannot see who the suspects are shooting at from their windows.

There was evidence of drug deals and money laundering when the police investigate the area in the aftermath of the shootout. Most of the dead suspects have been identified as a part of a small mafia in Osaka Prefecture, while few are original residents of the slums. Furthermore, the police obtained a CCTV recording from a building near the slums, revealing the perpetrator of the shootout."

The TV then shows up the close-up look of the recording. Some parts of the videos were censored due to their graphic nature, but two notable figures were around the corner. One seems pretty bulky, equipped with a brown jacket, blue jeans, a blue cap, and a half-mask. Another one, equipped with black Kevlar above the blue jacket, a gas mask, and a black cap. Both have similar two-handed firearms.

"The officers are yet unable to identify the perpetrators, but it has been concluded to be the same vigilantes that committed attacks against other criminals around the city in the last few days. Lt. Takawano, the head of the investigation team, stated that they know that one of the vigilantes is a blonde girl of 153 cm in height. Around four civilians are injured while about sixteen suspects are dead."

After a moment of staring, Sakurako and George simultaneously stare at each other. Rewinding a few days back, Sakurako remembers that Shiba suggested her to wear a full-cover-up outfit to avoid revealing any part of her characteristics since some of the jobs require to happen in public. George has restraint from mouthing 'she told you so.' Even if this news slaps her in the eyes, at the very least, she is comforted with the fact that they haven't found her identity, yet.

"Lt. Takawano promised to find and capture these vigilantes for disturbing the peace and endangerment of people's lives, while some argue that these vigilantes help to put the rising crime in the city at bay."

Huh, from how Sakurako sees it, she agrees more with the police, which is… quite ironic for someone who's doing questionable vigilante jobs. If one should admit, she wasn't quite sure that whatever jobs she got are in any way vigilante jobs since it involves a lot of money for each completed task. Unless getting those jobs from people who are not criminals actually count. Thinking again, the officers won't even bother to define that.

"Oh, my," Himawari frowned on the news. "Things must have gotten out of hand if vigilantes are starting to rise."

"I think that comment came in a little late, Hima-chan," Sakurako commented, keeping her face straight like canvas.

"Hmm…" Chinatsu turned to look at her friends and the teacher. "Aren't these vigilantes are what people called The Sentinels?"

Sakurako spaces out for a moment before shaking her head to snap herself. "Hm?"

"Ah, now I remember!" Akari added in, looking up with a finger on the chin. "Onee-chan told me about them. I even heard about them from the other news like that foiled robbery at a residence near the dock."

"Oh, I heard about that," surprisingly, Kitamiya commented with curious eyes. "So they're the ones who stopped the robbery of a residence?"

"Hai, Kitamiya-sensei," Akari happily replied. "There were also rumors that these vigilantes stopped a couple of attempted murders around a neighborhood west of Takaoka."

"Wow, they indeed made themselves famous around here," Kitamiya seemed a bit unamused. "But whatever they're doing, it's still illegal."

"Really?" Akari frowned her eyes. "Those vigilantes seem to have good intentions."

"Even if it seems that way," Himawari had to disagree. "Those vigilantes have deadly weapons in their hands. They could've done more harm than good."

"I'm not sure if that's the case," Chinatsu agreed with Akari. "They saved a lot of people than harming them."

"I'm afraid I have to agree with Ms. Himawari here," George, ironically one of the vigilantes, stated. "Vigilantes are tended to be reckless in their way of justification. I had my own share of vigilantism in Afghanistan, and I have to say, it didn't end well for the Afghan people and my troops."

"Is it really?" Sakurako leaned her head to the right side.

George nods, then smirks. "At least those vigilantes back in my day butchered some sick Talibans in their investigation."

"Eh?" Akari and Chinatsu darkened their eyes at the response.

"George-san," Himawari shed a sweat. "That was too dark."

"Sorry about that."

"So…" Sakurako paused at his kind demeanor. "They must have deserved for what they did to you, right?"

"Yes, they did," George took a deep sigh. "I remember they shot one of my men with an RPG before I scored his head. It surprises me that this son-of-a-gun barely lost his leg and survived."

"Must be an intriguing story to tell," Kitamiya praised his friend.

"Well, you could try to tell him that," George raised his shoulders. "He doesn't seem too happy about it."

Kitamiya slightly chuckles. "Is he really?"

"-In other news, a gold truck was robbed in the empty streets of 144-2012, Kiragashi street, Takaoka, during last evening. The gold truck was destined to reach Bank Yoshi Finance when suddenly the tires popped and were stopped halfway by the sidewalk. Upon investigation, a spike belt was deployed head start of the oncoming truck. In the subsequent event, it is known that at least two or more suspects attacked the truck and stole its contents. At least about 80.000.000 yens in gold is missing from the scene. One of the two drivers was shot dead, while the other is currently in treatment for suffering a gunshot wound to the stomach.

The citizens then called the police after loud chaos with the robbers, leaving no trace of their escape. The identities of the robbers are not currently yet known. The investigation is still underway as to the origin of the spike belt and any other evidence relating to these suspects."

The blonde furrows her eyebrows and tilts her head to the left. The name sounds… she could've sworn she had heard that name before somewhere. She could feel the minor strain inside her head, damning under her breath for her memory. Where did she hear that name of a building before?

Her eyes then flutter open wide. "Isn't that four blocks away from the mall?"

"I think so," she turns to Akari. "I remember a small toy shop near that street. It's often empty in the night."

"Wasn't Bank Yoshi just around the corner of the street?" the former ranger scratched his head, occasionally lifting his sunglasses.

"No," the redhead shook. "It's another street away."

"Jeez," they could see Chinatsu shook her head, sighing out as her forehead wrinkled a little. "That's still close. How could someone get the balls to do that?"

"Uhh…" Sakurako left her mouth a bit agape. "They use balls to rob the bank?"

She finally turns her attention away from the television. Soon, she met their glances, both of friends and teacher. The bluenette opened her mouth a little, but her weary gaze would defy Sakurako's own. George remained chilled, but he did lift his sunglasses. Kitamiya-sensei turned in her direction with her eyes remained fixed and sharp to her. Both Akari and Chinatsu had an emptiness inside their eyes, but they are not at the least concerned about their neck going stretch in pain.

"N-no," Chinatsu shook her head a little. "I mean, those robbers have the bravery to do that near the bank."

"Oh," the blonde merely stared for a moment. "Okay then."

For Himawari, it wasn't so surprising that she would be dismissive like that. Still, that was both a stupid and literal question. Of course, the kind of stupid Sakurako has is… alluring… somehow. She doesn't have to suffer her childish screaming and useless banter. Her silence tends to her mind and keeps her hypertension at bay. Watching the blonde's gentle hand caresses over a page and turning each page for every visual representation she read.

"Alright, everyone," Sakurako kept reading, ears perked upon the teacher's announcement. "We'll be here soon. Please, recheck your items before we get off."

The silent girl looks up from the book. Raising an eyebrow, but her lips remain straight. That soon? She could've sworn this was a five-hour trip with all the napping. Shame, she liked the synthetic breeze of the air conditioner. Cold, fuzzy, slick to the touch.

She turns at George. "How's the weather outside?"

"Seems good. According to the weather forecast, it should be warm this noon."

"Ah, good then," Sakurako slightly nodded. "Do you want to get coffee after this?"

"Sure," a smile appeared on his face. "Let's hope there's a café nearby. I'll pay for the drinks."

"Just don't drink too much, alright?" Kitamiya warned, didn't even bother to look.

"Why?" Sakurako furrowed her eyes.

"Not good for your heart."

"Okay, sensei."

Sakurako sighs again. Looks like she will be reading the comic for another time. Sakurako hands it back over to the redhead with thanks. Taking a deep sigh to enjoy the last seconds of the synthetic cold air, all the while checking the small bag beside her. Filled nothing more than writing tools, blank books, tissues, a wallet, and other trinkets. There's a small unmarked glass bottle containing transparent tangerine liquid. Only Himawari and George know what that is.

The moment the bus parks, everyone stands up and exits the bus in an orderly fashion. George is the last to step out to ensure none of the stuff the students carry gets left behind. Each student carries their own luggage, but they will take it for later. It is not their time yet to move into a place to sleep. If Sakurako remembers the schedule correctly, they will be staying at the hotel in the late evening.

Outside, she watches each white bus of different classes lines up perfectly in their parking spot; not even a single tire is on the white line. Most of the students scattered around the parking lot, finding and regrouping with their chosen friends to walk with. She also notices some minor students not originating from her school, sporting blue-white serafuku and grey uniform. Shame, if Misaka's school was here, she would've enjoy her company.

"Chizuru~! Chu-chu!"

Oh, that was Kyouko, running over to Chitose's twin sister with wide arms.

"BACK OFF!" *BUAK*

Chizuru then sends her away with a strong uppercut kick straight to the long blonde's chin. Still, that persistent girl denies getting her smile wiped off of her face. Not that she likes getting kicked at. She… owns it and gets on with her day.

Sakurako only shakes her head. "When she realizes she was being serious?"

A long whistle is heard, originating from the former army ranger. "That is one strong kick for a girl. I wished I've seen something like that while in the army."

"I thought you also had fist-fights over there."

"We rarely get to that, Sakurako. We only did a lot of walking and shootouts, but nothing closer to that."

There was a calling in the middle of the lot, and the teachers gathered the students around. It looks like the trip is about to start.

"We better get going."

"Let's, Sakurako."

The trip grants nothing but sore legs for what it's worth. From the large sidewalk, a giant red monumental gateway stands before them. A tall red pagoda stands in the distance beyond the gateway, taller than the gate. Towering the whole area as a guide for those who wish to seek their belief and for those who want to witness the greatness of the temple's architecture. There, a building half-buried underneath the leaves of reddish-tangerine, the great Kiyozumi-dera Temple. But from where they are standing, they could only see nothing but the roofs of the temple.

Sakurako, for one, upon stepping onto the pavement of the sacred site she feels inner peace. Calm and collected, no mood for fooling or playing around the temple. Just like what Sakurako wanted. Well… could be better if Kyouko doesn't start to mess around, burdening everyone for her excitement.

"So… this is the famous Kiyozumi-dera Temple?" her personal security asked. "I've gotta hand it to them. I might just be thinking to live here than in the cities of America."

"What makes you say that?" Sakurako raised an eyebrow. "I thought you're happy with how well great America is with its many landmarks that can be compared with this."

"Oh, you're just too humble, Sakurako," George took a sip of his cappuccino. "I won't deny with what you said about USA's infrastructure. But I love the sight of engravings your people created, quite a masterpiece, if I have to say. I didn't see that much when I'm still at America."

"We are glad to hear that, George-san," the bluenette came over, along with the whole gang. "You know, sometimes I wonder for how long they made those engravings by hand."

"That's a reason why I like engravings," George added with a smile. "You can never underestimate a person's masterful handiwork."

"I can never put off my smile for your kind answer," Kitamiya answered behind him, Akari and Chinatsu already have their cameras out. "I wished there are more people who could admire such things."

Sakurako almost made a smile. But for now, she's highly content to be traveling at such a beautiful landmark. Although, when Yui's gang shows up, Sakurako is rather bothered of the other blonde. "We're at Kiyomizu! So cooool!"

"Hey there, Sakurako," Yui greeted with an open palm. Chitose and Ayano did the same.

"Yui," Sakurako tuned at the gang. "How was the trip?"

"Kinda stalled a bit, but we're doing alright."

"Oh?" Akari clasped her hands together. "Did you get a flat tire on the way?"

"Yeah," a pout procured on the vice student council's face. "The driver said someone left some nails on the road."

George smirks, can't tell what else he expressed behind his sunglasses. "Huh, what an ass."

The teacher with them just sighs. "Can we get through this day without inappropriate words?"

"Oh, sorry," George innocently sipped his coffee. "I can see you guys still have the spirits there."

They could listen to some tuneful humming from the other blonde with ribbon headband, waving her hands opened wide and hopping like the elementary child she was. Can't even stop looking in all directions.

"Toshinou Kyouko, listen! If you get too excited!" believe it or not, Ayano is doing the same thing this energetic blonde does, only with little restraint. "I'm gonna bakkin Buckingham you!"

"Pfft!"

Sakurako could not get used to her puns, even if it's less funny. "It doesn't seem she's the only one who's excited."

Chitose laughs kindly at her expense. "Calm down, Ayano-chan."

Once again, Sakurako smiles, then sips her coffee. "Well, the trip is really worth it."

"I think it's a bit too early to say that," Yui argued. "But sure it feels like we're in Kyoto."

"Do you think so?" Chinatsu almost made a fist and rested under her chin. "I always thought the two places looked different."

"By the way," Ayano pointed at Sakurako's right hand, her expressions hanged in slight curiosity all of a sudden. "Where did you get that coffee?"

"Oh?" Sakurako then pointed her left hand to the right. "We bought it from the coffee shop after the parking lot."

"Hooo, coffee!?" Kyouko suddenly jumped in at her face. "Can I have some?! Can I have some?!"

Her face turns sour once again. "No."

"Aw."

"Kyouko," Kitamiya shrunk her eyes, sharp as a dozen daggers. "Quit bothering her."

"Hai, Kitamiya-sensei!" the delinquent blonde wandered off not far, still smiling all the while hopping around like a lost bunny she is.

"By the way," George interrupted. "I believe we haven't met yet."

"Ah, yes. Everyone, this is a friend of mine, George-san. Our security detail for today," Sakurako introduced to the gang. "George, these are my friends, Yui, Kyouko, Ayano, and Chitose."

The former ranger nods. "Glad to be acquainted with you."

"Ah, I would say the same," Yui replied, though a bit awkward to the stranger.

George furrows both his eyes as if they could see behind his sunglasses. "Is something wrong?"

"A-ah, n-nothing," Yui shook her head. "I think you're a bit… intimidating."

The Oomuro only hums. "Don't worry. He didn't bring a gun."

Everyone turns at her, Himawari being the one has the look of an angry grandmother. "That was not helpful, Sakurako."

"Even without a gun, I still have my fists," George said as he sipped his coffee. "So you can count me on that."

"That's pretty reassuring, George-san," Ayano shed a sweat, not of concern for stranger danger. "But how did you become friends with Sakurako?"

"We first met in a park," George replied, leaning his head at the dumb blonde. "She gave me quite a company after a hard time."

"I also bought you a coffee, didn't I?" Sakurako asked.

"I thought you remembered that part."

"Eeehh?" Kyouko interrupted, envy on her face like a jealous monkey. "So is he your boyfriend?"

*Plak*

Yui slaps the back of her head. "Don't say something stupid like that."

Sakurako leers over to the purple-haired student council, though, she finds it odd that she blushed in a mix of nervousness and excitement for no reason. And then she leers over to Chitose and- oh no.

"Chitose."

"Yes?"

"Your nose is bleeding again."

"Eh?" Even the teacher soon found the four-eyed girl bleeding as she would as a chocolate fountain.

"KYAAAA!" Ayano and Chinatsu right away came to her aid with lots of tissues. Ayano even screamed, "tissue, tissue!"

Remembering this is quite a common occurrence, Sakurako doesn't worry much, except for gunshots, that is. Kitamiya and Akari already prepared their tissues as well. The bluenette, the tomboy, and the security are only standing to watch the scene unfold. As for Kyouko, she had the look of disbelieve beneath her fake smile, probably at how much blood Chitose lose.

"Um…" George hesitantly turned his head at the girls. "Shouldn't we get her to the nearby hospital?"

"We should, but…." Himawari paused, a finger on the front of her lips. "This happens too often, so I don't think it's necessary."

"At what point we should worry about her?"

Himawari is uncertain how to reply, but Sakurako beats her. "When she gets shot."

Yui and HImawari glare at her, giving their preposterous look at the Oomuro.

George… he simply replies. "That's fair enough, I guess." Can't even tell if she's joking or serious about it.

"You're such a meanie, Saa-chan," Kyouko mouthed a couple of noes, followed by a waving index finger. "When did your senpai, which is the great commander Kyouko, teach you to say something like that?"

"Never," was her reply. "But why Yui-senpai, who is younger than you, always berate your idiocy?"

Kyouko's eyes become suddenly empty. Quite a comeback that she didn't expect, from someone who's also stupid no less. She could see Yui is giggling to herself with her mouth covered. The bluenette is pretty… bamboozled; a flatter-gasped sincere smile formed on her face. George raises both of his eyebrows and mouths an "oooh, shots fired." That was really a checkmate.

Yui shakes her head, still smiling all the way. "That's a nice one, Sakurako-chan."

"Thanks," Sakurako then turned at the nose-bleeding four-eyes. "Oh, the bleeding's stopped?"

"Oh, yes," Chitose now sounded a bit silly with her nose plugged in. "It's kinda bit hard to breath, though."

"Don't worry, miss," George assured her. "I know about first aid emergencies. So if anything happens, you know I'll be around."

"Eh? Really?" a comment came from the redhead Akari.

"Wha-? If what you say is true…." Ayano leaned her body a little to the side. "Wow, you're certainly something else, George-san."

George chuckles to himself again, though Sakurako can tell he's a bit embarrassed with her appraise. "Now, let's make sure our trip goes smoothly, shall we?"

"YEAH! Comeon comeon comeon! I can't wait to see what's inside Kiyomizu!" the energetic blonde continued to pester, hopping around the group like a bunny.

"Kyouko-senpai…" Sakurako sighed lowly with eyes closed. "This trip would be much nicer without you tagging along."

"Really?" Kyouko asked with a raised brow, then jolted out her silly mouth as she hugged her shoulders. "Don't you miss me?"

Sakurako keeps her eyes shut just to refrain her annoyance. "Yes, I miss you."

"Yay!"

The girl sighs again in relief once Kyouko gets off her shoulders. Then, Sakurako starts moving forward to the Kiyomizu, sipping her coffee all the way. "Next time, Kyouko-senpai. Just stand still on the spot."

Now that Sakurako leaves the group alone, confusion was raised amongst them. They think that Sakurako just wants her to stand still like a statue. However, there's a humble American laugh coming from the only security in the group. The girls and the teacher have their eyes narrowed down. They still can't see the joy behind his sunglasses.

"Oh, those were good days."

Chinatsu can't help but ask. "Do you know what she meant?"

"That? She's just joking," George then walked forward, sipping his coffee in the same manner Sakurako did. "You might understand it if you were a sniper."

"A sniper?" Kitamiya digested those words for a moment, then she stared into emptiness. "Oh…"

"My…" Himawari sighed heavily with eyes closed. "I never thought she would go that dark."

However, there are two people stifling their laughs to themselves. Heads bowed down, and their eyes are hidden in the shade as their nimble hands cover their mouths. Those two were the laughing Ayano and Yui. To see them laughing at dark humor was foreboding for both Chinatsu and Kyouko.

"Alright, everyone," Kitamiya clapped once, turning their attention at her. "Let's get moving."

"Hai, Kitamiya-sensei!"

The group moves as other students of Nanamori are minding their own business to look around the landmark. Now that being mentioned, Sakurako was a bit confused to herself why many people outside this city doesn't like living in Kyoto. Even with the Kiyozumi-dera Temple as a fantastic landmark, the city looks as lovely as her neighborhood. Oh, if she really would know about it, then she could understand why. Good thing was, she hasn't found a reason to dislike the city so that she won't be so moot about it.

The gang catches up with Sakurako and George, and they aren't yet finished with their warm coffee. Walking upon the grand stairs, they then enter through the red gateway. From there they began their venture around the temple. Of course, Kitamiya wasn't the one leading around the way. That would be Kyouko who does all that kind of work.

The only fuss Sakurako has about her… is just she just can't stop goddamn running. Then again… that might be an excellent exercise if she was to get another quest from Shiba. She keeps her mouth shut and keeps her cup of coffee from spilling if she's about to jog. From the looks of it, the one who keeps chasing her around like a goose would be Kitamiya herself. Just to avoid any unwanted incidents from messing around the temple's property.

Finally, the horse-powered blonde finally stops at one of the shrines. Undoubtedly, she's pretty interested in the small wooden plaques hanging on the shrine. These small plaques are commonly known as Ema. Where people write their prayers and hang them on the shrine. Wishing that their Kami, The God, would grant their prayers and wishes. For once, Sakurako wishes there aren't any prayers that contain words of malicious intent.

Huh, how did she know the word 'malicious' again?

"Awesomeee!" Kyouko's eyes were full of shining stars. "There's a lot of Ema!"

"I-I told you not to get excited just because we arrived at Kyoto!"

Sakurako doesn't like to repeat the irony on Ayano; nevertheless, Chitose kindly commented her behavior. "It seems Ayano-chan is the one who looks so excited now.'

"So…" George examined the Emas, if he could understand the Japanese alphabets. "So you just write a prayer and left it hanging here all day?"

"That's pretty much it," Kitamiya answered.

"Should we make our Emas as well?" Yui asked, looking over to the excited Kyouko and her whole gang.

"Sakurako," she turned at the bluenette's call. "Do you have a wish in mind?"

"Hmm…" she genuinely shook her head. "No. I don't have a wish in mind."

Himawari sighs out. "That's not so surprising. I guess I'll go ahead and write one."

Sakurako continues her pause, and then a lightbulb appears in her eyes. "Oh, I got one."

The bluenette raises an eyebrow. "Oh?"

"Excuse me," George turned at the teacher and the girls. "Do I have to make an Ema before I write on it?"

"Oh, no, it's already available to buy," Kitamiya then pointed at an office of the temple, far right side. "You can buy one over there."

"That's great then," George smiled. "I should use an ink pen, right?"

"You should," Kitamiya nodded. "But any writing tool will do, as long as everyone can see what you're writing."

"That shouldn't be a problem then," George gave a thumbs up before he left to buy one.

Sakurako walks over to Akari and Chinatsu, currently scribbling in their Emas. "What are you writing?"

"Oh, me?" she could have sworn that her smile was too bright to take. "I wished that we have a great trip and everyone stays healthy as usual."

"Your wish is so like you, Akari-chan," Sakurako smiled, then leered her eyes to the pink-haired girl. "What about you, Chinatsu?"

"Um…" looks like she doesn't have to say much. Both of them could see what she was writing.

Her words on the Ema are as followed: I can get to kiss Yui-chan.

"Ah…" it might be just best to leave her alone about that. She shuts her eyes and pats her shoulder. "I wish you luck, China-chan."

"Huh?" she confused her. "Uhm, okay. Thanks, Saa-chan."

At the very least, she isn't drawing something eerie capable of making people fall swoon. The redhead Akari, who is standing just beside her, couldn't agree more. Sakurako and some of her friends were about to get an Ema, but it seems Sakurako doesn't have to bother. George, ever kindhearted he is, bought her an Ema to write with. As a favor for buying him some coffee.

The supposed idiot blonde gets her chance to get ahold of the ink pen. Himawari and Kitamiya stand aside her, wonder with what she would write in her Ema. So they wait tolerantly for her to write, trying their best not to interrupt her wish. Once Sakurako says that she's done, is when the two decides to lean into her words.

Her wish is: I hope Detective Sumida-san receives her promotion and doesn't get shot again.

"Achoo!"

The detective harshly rubs her nose to find it wet and soiled by her own snot. Strange, she didn't suffer any allergy. She's still at her desk, scanning over a number of cases. She didn't even have a flower on her table.

"Did someone talk about me?"

People could say Kitamiya looks slightly astounded, but Himawari is rather hot-headed with what she wrote.

"You seriously wrote that on the Ema!?" roared the bluenette at her ears. "Stop writing jokes on the Ema!"

"What?" it's her turn to glare back at her. "It's not a joke."

"But still," Himawari eased herself. "Can't you write something else than 'don't get shot?'"

"Uh," Sakurako paused, looking on her Ema. "I guess I should buy another one."

"Forget it, Sakurako-san," kitamiya responded, her relaxed arms crossing just about her waist. "You'll just wasting money. Go hang it on the shrine. At least you are too honest about it."

"Alright, sensei."

Doesn't want to waste more time, she hangs it straight away on the shrine just above Akari's Ema. Himawari stands behind her, and can't help but wonder how many people would be quite frighted once they see her prayer on the Ema. Ayano and Chitose happen to look over, though, they merely think that Sakurako was joking, save for the detective's promotion. Nevertheless, George looks barely off-guard with the detective's name she written.

They wander on to a place, one that people could call an attraction. Tainai Meguri was the name. Before they can ask the receptionist, Chitose translates it as walking through/in the dark alley. Sakurako can't imagine and didn't ask what's the point of the dark alley. Alas, Kyouko goes one step further and straight on buying the ticket for merely 100 yens. One thing that shouldn't forget to mention, Sakurako could feel a grin on George's face. Whether that was a cocky or exultant smile, she can't tell.

Eventually, all of them enter the dark, solid alley, with the teacher being the last to enter. What was pretty is that Kyouko is not very afraid of going into the dark void, black as space itself. They could feel the walls, smooth but jagged like every recently painted building does. Chitose had commented on how weird the floors are. All Sakurako can describe was that the floors feel damp, nothing else than that.

Then some mishap happens from its sounds coming from the front. Unsurprisingly, she knew who were screaming there just from hearing her high voice.

"WUAAAAAAHHH!" Ayano femininely screams as someone touched her on the silent train. "Don't touch me there!"

"Oh, sorry," that's definitely Kyouko. "Where am I?"

"On my butt~…" wait what- "WAIT A MINUTE! Does that matter!? If you want to hold me, just hold my waist!"

"Can't I hold elsewhere?"

"UWAAAAAA HAAA! That's not my waist!"

"Eh?"

"UAAAAAA! AAAAAAAH!"

The police would be here right now if it wasn't for the fact that a girl is touching another girl.

Finally, the alley reaches its end, a couple of dark-colored curtains before them, then the blonde with the ribbon headband gently pushes one aside, letting the heavenly lights struck through the emptiness. She climbs the steps and proudly stands at the top, arms reaching high in the sky. No care for the friends still left behind her. Not even a single care for Ayano, whom she harassed at private spots.

"After dark, there is light!"

Sakurako, ever far her obliviousness is, holding hands with the bluenette, both red-faced and disinclined with her offer. Watching the purple-haired student council berating the delinquent blonde yet again out of broken pride. Chinatsu, no matter how cute she looks, she's about to crush Akari's right shoulder and her windpipe. She turns her head behind her, watching Yui and Chitose emerge from the alley.

"Tainai Meguri…"

Sakurako, alongside Himawari and Yui, turn at the bowed Chitose. Which then, she raises her head, to show she's bleeding again, even with the tissues plugged in. "It's a very creepy place than I thought."

"Yeah…" Yui commented, pitied her merely for her predicament. "I can already imagine your reaction."

Then George and Kitamiya emerge from the alley as Yui and Chitose bypassed to the top. "Man, wish I had night-vision goggles," commented the former ranger.

"I'm still surprised you haven't stumbled yet," Kitamiya said, for once with a gentle smile.

"Ma'am, I think you just underestimated the United States Army Ranger."

"Fair enough."

They then travel unto a stage, the Kiyozumi no Butai. It required them to walk through the maze of buildings even to reach the stage. As the blonde Oomuro looks around her, watching her schoolmates and other foreign students talking and groping around the famous spot, she found the wide stage is built upon the high wooden scaffolding. Quite thankfully, there are railings guarded along the edge to ward anyone from dipping down. Standing upon the railing, she watched down, observing the leaves of blood and pumpkin dancing alongside the wind in the midst of the fresh lime canopy. If there were any floors to be seen from up there, she couldn't, with the canopy being an obstacle of her sight.

"Ooooh!" turning to her right looking past the bluenette and the pink head, like an eager cat Kyouko is, to see her leaning beyond the railing. "So this is the Kiyozumi no Butai?! I can fly!"

"Don't even think about it," warned the tomboy Yui.

She then points to Yui with two hands. "You can fly?"

"No, I won't!"

"But if you fall from this height, you won't die right?"

That was… perturbing. "What is this about jumping off this height?" George happened to step in, standing just between them.

"Ah, George-san," Akari greeted with a smile. "It's actually a reference in the Edo-period that one who jumps down and survives, his wish will be granted. It was a tradition at the time."

"Goddamn," the black security leaned down at the canopy. "That's stupid. Even by military standards."

The bluenette leans her head back a bit. "I did not expect to hear that from you. Don't they also teach you about dealing with heights?"

"We have rappels to get the job done, but not jumping," George shook his head. "Even a strong guy like me can lose a leg or two just for that stupid tradition."

"Ouch, that's harsh," said the home-economics teacher, who happened to stand behind them. "But thankfully, that practice has been banned after the 1800s."

"Thank God that actually happened," George laughed again, then sipped on his coffee. "Huh, my coffee's empty. Is there a bin around?"

"Over there."

"Ah, thanks. I'll be back."

They watch him leave, then breaking their sight when Kitamiya walks over to Sakurako's group. "Where's Chinatsu-san?"

Sakurako then turns to her left. "She's taking a picture there."

Kitamiya hums, watching that girl walking around the stage, occasionally stares off towards the view. The teacher then turns to Sakurako. "How are you enjoying the trip so far, Sakurako?"

Sakurako hums to herself, looking back to the view before her. "Now that you asked about it. I really love the trip. Well, if Kyouko would stop pestering."

"Come on now, Sakurako," Himawari commented her words. "Don't be like that."

"Hey, everyone," they all turned to Chitose's call. "Let's take a picture."

"Alright, let's go!" cheered the delinquent blonde, raising her fists high in the sky.

"Ah, hang on," Akari went off to the left side of the stage. "China-chan!"

Kitamiya sighs, then smiles. "Alright, gather around. Let's stand right here."

"Yes, sensei."

With almost no haste, they form a box just by the railings. Chitose and Ayano are in as well, managing to convince other schoolmates to take their pictures. Chitose, Akari, Chinatsu, and Kyouko are to kneel on the front. Where while, in order, Ayano, Himawari, Sakurako, Kitamiya, George, and Yui remain to stand on the back. Though some used the peace sign, everyone is to pose, Sakurako, Kitamiya, and George opted to smile at the camera.

"CHEESE!" - *CK-KLIK*

Their trip isn't finished yet, at least for the time being. The day was yet still afternoon, and in Kyouko's definition of tired, keep exploring until one fainted along the way. It was decided that they would travel to another shrine, not far from where they stand. Soon, they stumble upon a shrine containing a golden statue displayed for the public.

Not just any statue, a golden praying Buddhist statue. The intricate engravings of the statue's clothes and crown are a masterpiece that cannot be compared with for its religious value. Rare to see the gentle giant of a ranger examining over the statue with his unbreakable gaze, such eyes that could be worth as an eagle's. Nonetheless, a tingle of discomfiture is notable on Ayano's face, merely because of George's grave face alone.

"Ooohh!" the starry-eyed Kyouko flatter-gasped. "What is this?"

"I heard the part of body we touch would be blessed," Chitose, of course, referring to the statue.

"Really? Then I must touch it!"

Granted, she's still excited, but Sakurako watches that Yui touches the statue first. Her hand rubs over the statue's head. The Oomuro supposed that Yui was having a headache. Then, Kyouko lands her hand on her shoulder. And she gives a thumbs up.

"Don't worry, Yui. Your brain is not that bad!"

*PLAK*

Yui was about to retort, but Sakurako, with her indifference, straight up slap her cheek. Supposedly, startling everyone within the radius. Moreover, Kitamiya is already pissed for that just happened right in front of her.

"Sakurako!"

"Oh?" it looks as if the Oomuro didn't really realize what she did. "Sorry, my hand slipped."

"Yeah, right," Kitamiya kept her stern face. "Don't do that again."

"Yes, sensei."

Nevertheless, Yui looks quite thankful for her that she didn't have to bother to berate her. Either way, Chitose takes her turn to rub the statue's nose.

"I hope my nose will become better."

Ayano, standing next to her, awkwardly smiles. "Someone really must fix that nose." Sakurako agrees with the notion.

Ayano takes her turn to rub the statue, now on the chest.

"Ayano, do you want your chest to get bigger?"

Goddammit, Kyouko.

"No, I don't!" Ayano then subtracted herself. "T-Toshino Kyouko, where do you want to touch it?"

"The way you talk sounds perverted."

"Ah-heh?!"

Sakurako instinctively motions Himawari and Akari to Chitose. Just in time to plug her nose again with the new tissues. Then, it is Kyouko's turn to touch. Now, Sakurako will watch which part she touches the statue.

"I will rub everything."

Unsurprising, even Yui sighs at the decision. "Well… I already guessed this."

"Sakurako," she turned at the bluenette. "Do you want to touch it?"

"No-" immediately a pause, now that being mentioned… "Yes."

A couple of steps forward, she examines the statue once again from head to toe. She places her hand upon the shoulder of the Buddhist statue. Rubbing it gently like she would to a puppy. The texture of the praying statue is as smooth as polished aluminum. Yet, she could feel a little pain conveyed onto the statue. She doesn't really believe in spiritual stuff, but she needs a blessing.

In her heart, she wished: "I hope the scar on my shoulder disappears."

"Eh? Do you want a massage?"

Couldn't just leave her alone, does she? Thankfully, George is the only one who notes what Sakurako is asking to be blessed. For Kyouko, she's fortunate that the Oomuro didn't slap her again, might as well treating her like she would to Chizuru. It was noted, thanks to Chinatsu, that the time was almost evening. The sun was about to change its color tone of the bright day, and Kitamiya, without any haste, lead the group around the unmapped area before they begin to rest at a particular cafe spot. At least, that's what Sakurako thinks of the spot.

About where they sleepover for the night, Chitose and Kitamiya have provided the information regarding that. They'll be spending the night at a particular hotel funded by the school. Well, the apparent truth is a bit far from that. Yui silently smiles to herself as she looks over to Sakurako, whom she was shrugged. Moreover, the hotel was famous for its Traditional-Japanese style theme, hence they will sleep with the provided futons. An extra for these students, was that the hotel has a big onsen/public bath for the students to use.

Just like what she needs.

But regarding this evening… she may have some business with George. A dirty one, that is. She looks over to the teacher, happening to notice her look. Putting down the sweets on a stick on the plate, she raised an eyebrow at the blonde.

"Is something the matter, Sakurako?"

"Can we talk privately?"

Quite an odd request, catching everyone off-guard, even her bluenette neighbor. But Kitamiya nods. "Sure."

The Oomuro turns at the security. "George."

"Oh, right," George cleared his throat, all the while putting his syrupy drink down before he stood up. "Ma'am."

Sakurako and Kitamiya proceed to stand up; George then leads them away from the girls, out of their sight. Kyouko didn't care and continues to chomp on her sweets. Yui and Akari show their concern, though, wise enough to stop wondering. Most are curious about the affairs Sakurako has that even had to invite George to come along. As for the bluenette, she stops eating and stares off where her neighbor went. If there's a problem, Sakurako usually tells it straight to her.

She wants to set off, to search out what kind of affair this is. Her heart is aching, crying to check on her condition. But… she decides to hold back. For all she knew, she hasn't been thoughtless yet to deal with some of her problems. Sakurako already learned her mistake. To interrupt her private affair would be pretty rude.

Whatever problem Sakurako has, even if it's because she's feeling sick, she won't be in her way. For now.

At last, the time has come, the time for tranquility and leisureliness. Being well spent for the trip in Kiyozumi-dera, they were led to the hotel to earn their rest. Quarters have been given out for all students present; not a room even left for a stranger to stay. Sakurako got hers, or to be stand corrected, her group got their own room. Upon entering through the sliding door, they feast their eyes upon the pristine, traditional-style room. Floors are well matted, almost no chairs for sitting, and a table in the middle of the room; more prominently, how the room is reliable on being simplistic.

Each girl has their own luggage, most notably Himawari's luggage, being a bit bigger than she would need. Sakurako… quite another story. The bluenette found it odd that she had brought two pieces of luggage into the room, one of them being black. Granted, Himawari wasn't together with her at the start of the trip, though, came a bit later along with George. Forget it, the girls settle down around the table with a collective sigh, save for the blonde herself.

"Yay, finally," Akari cheered with a sweat trailing on her forehead. "My legs are getting sore."

"Me too," Chinatsu fanned herself. "The trip was so fun."

"Did you get a lot of pictures?" Himawari asked the pink head.

"I did," she replied with a nod. "I'll share the pictures with you later."

"Alright," Himawari then turned to the wordless blonde. "Sakurako."

"Hm?"

"How was the trip for you?"

Sakurako rolls her eyes at the table, swinging with freedom. "It was… great."

"That doesn't sound convincing," said the bluenette.

Sakurako stares back for a little while, then procures an honest smile. "I'm very glad I can make this trip with you, Hima-chan."

"Ah…" for once, the bluenette was speechless but returned her smile. "I'm happy to hear that. So, what do you find the most interesting about Kiyozumi-dera?"

"Well…" the blonde unconsciously rubbed her left shoulder. "I found the Ema and that statue pretty interesting."

"Why'd you find those interesting?" Chinatsu asked. "It's just a way to ask for wishes to be granted."

"What you said is the reason why I'm so interested in them," Sakurako paused, looking forward. "But sometimes I'm curious as to how one determines to grant that wish and how did they do it."

"Wow, I think you're a bit thoughtful than you should," commented the bluenette. "Let's just leave that thought alone for now."

She nods. "Okay."

"Umm, Sakurako," Akari called. "Did you bring that many clothes?"

"Oh?" Sakurako looked back at her two luggage. "Yeah, you could say that. Just in case."

"I guess you're overly cautious," Himawari then digressed. "By the way, what did you talk about with Kitamiya-sensei?"

"That private talk?" Sakurako asked.

"Yeah," the bluenette nodded. "Is there something up?"

"Actually, I have an important matter elsewhere," Sakurako admitted. "I might not be able to spend the evening with you."

"What's this business all about?" Chinatsu pried in.

"Nothing much," Sakurako replied. "I'm going to attend a gathering somewhere in this city."

"What's this gathering all about?" Himawari asked with a raised brow.

"George invited me to this gathering," Sakurako replied as she played her fingers on the table. "To spend time together with some of his veterans."

"Woah, really?" Akari's knowing eyes are brighter than the stars. "That sounds so special."

"That surprised me," Himawari was glad, though, frowned a little. "But that's a shame. I was looking forward to enjoying the day together."

"Don't worry, Hima-chan," she assured. "I think I'll be back around the late evening."

"Better make sure you don't be late," said the blunette, bowed, but her eyes looked up.

"I'm not going to miss dinner, you know."

That earns a cheerful laugh from each of them, again save for Sakurako. Guess she won't stop being a glutton after all.

*BAR-BAR-BAR-BAR-BAR *

*DOR-DOR-DOR-DOR-DOR-DOR*

*PTRTAATATATATTA*

So much for a gathering. At least, there was half a truth about it. This new experience of hot pursuit in cars is the most intense action for her by far, beats the usual shootout she had indoors and outdoors. George handles the driving and is sharp to catch up with the target's car. Two of his pals, who are now mercenaries, sitting on the back with their guns hailing songs of thunder. These were veterans, though, they were former soldiers, not rangers.

"Shit, man," one of his pals, a former corporal, swore. "This kid knows how to shoot!"

"I told you don't underestimate her," George responded, swirling the car about to avoid collisions.

"Hell," his other pal, a former sergeant, commented. "Keep shooting like that in the army you oughta be a corporal in the army in no time."

"George!" Sakurako pointed on their left. "Watch it!"

"Woah!"

The former ranger swerves the car to the right, avoiding a truck about to take over their path.

"Asshole!" the former sergeant cried as he held fire.

"Hey, kid!" the corporal called, all the while ducking the incoming fire from the front. "You alright?"

"Yes," Sakurako reloaded her AK-103, then firing through the broken windshield.

"Sakurako," George swerved to the left. "I'm going to the side. Get ready to shoot the tire."

"Got it!"

George steps on the gas, braving against the opposite road to catch up with their target. The traffic has decided that no civilian cars shall enter the road from ahead. And so, managing to get on their side, though, under heavy fire from enemy SMGs. Small window of opportunity appears before their eyes.

"Now's our chance! Shoot it!"

*BAR-BAR-BAR*

*TCIIIIIIIIIIIT-CIIIIIIIIIIIT-BRAK*

The target's car eventually swerves uncontrollably that it crashed onto a wall just next to the alley. "Just in time," Sakurako had thought in her heart. George stops the car just behind it, but the corporal and the sergeant were the ones to get out of the car. Then the blonde had followed suit, just as other shots fired to incapacitate/kill the target's goons. Where while the former army corporal stayed by the back passenger side, the blonde bypassed him to reach for the right front door. Upon opening the door, the corporal immediately drags him out by the collar, finding their target is half-fainted by the impact.

"Gotcha, ya' slippery guy," the corporal then slapped his face with the butt of his rifle, forcing him to faint with a bruise on his eyes. "A'right, we got 'im."

"Drag his sorry ass here," the former army sergeant ordered. "We gotta roll. I'll open the trunk."

George comes over to Sakurako while his pals get rid of the sleeping target. "You okay, Sakurako?"

"I'm fine," she patted onto her own shoulder. "Looks like we won't be late to get back to the hotel."

"Really?" the black ranger checked onto his watch. "Well, we better find some transport to get back. It would be quite a long walk. Thankfully, Ms. Shiba got us covered about that."

"Okay," Sakurako then turned to his fellow battle-brothers. "But what about-"

"Hey, don't worry about us," the sergeant assured aloud with an open palm. "We got this. You guys just get back to whatever party bullshit you got."

"Alright," George gave a salute. "I'll see you around."

"You too, dude," the corporal replied as they enter their shot-up car. "Buy us a drink the next time we meet."

The mercenaries gas their car and drive away from the scene. Not soon after, they could hear a faint siren in the distance. A gale of sigh omits from the Oomuro's lips. By the time she looks at the former ranger, he motions his head at the alley.

"Let's get going."

As George wiggles his legs ahead, Sakurako takes a last look at the chaos they have created. It was then she begins to jog into the shade of the alley. Should not waste any more time as the day is getting darker, alongside the curtains of citrus that slowly decay.

After enjoying the sparkle of the healthy, hot public bath, Himawari, Akari, and Chinatsu returned to their quarters to get donned with the provided yukata. Turning to the window available in the room, the blunette found the day would soon be dark. Yet, her neighbor, her childhood friend, has not returned. That itself had given her a frown of a lifetime.

Now that being mentioned, Himawari felt too uncomfortable… and yet too apprehensive of her fate. Her heart continues to beat, but yet, feels being gripped by an invisible hand. This… isn't normal for her to feel this way, moreover, taking into account how often she had to fix Sakurako's past mistakes. Might be she just merely over-concerned about it for no reason. But, still remembered her promise to return this late in the evening. If something was to happen to her…

"Hima-chan?" she snapped at the worried Akari. "Are you alright?"

"Uh, I'm fine," Himawari nodded. "I just spaced out a bit."

"Shouldn't Sakurako already be back by now?" Chinatsu asked after looking at her phone.

The bluenette gives a downhearted sigh. "She could be late or something."

"Don't worry, Hima-chan," Akari assured with her knowing smile. "I'm sure she'll be fine with George-san on her side."

A legit reason to begin with, but Sakurako knew more about him than herself. Of course, there was no reason not to trust George as well. "I guess you're right."

"I'm back."

Someone had stepped into their turf, in turn seeing an open, fragile white sliding door. To their delight, the familiar face of an Oomuro has finally returned, clothed with the provided yukata. Although, it was pretty odd to see she is bringing that black bag around her shoulder. Most importantly, she smells flowery for the bluenette.

"Did you just take a bath, Sakurako?" Himawari asked; in return, that girl nodded.

"We are glad that you made it back, Saa-chan!" Akari said with a gentle clap. "We were starting to worry if you were going to be late."

"Oh, that," Sakurako then put the bag down and sat at the table. "I had to take a quick bath."

"Then why did you carry that bag around?" Himawari asked with a narrowed eye.

"I didn't know they provide yukata."

The bluenette lets out an irritated sigh. "You didn't check the brochure, did you?" asked the pink head.

"I didn't," Sakurako turned her head at each girl. "Are you heading somewhere?"

"We'll be heading for the gift shop," said the bluenette. "You're coming with us, right?"

Sakurako didn't smile but gives raised eyebrows. "Sure."

How crowded the gift shop is when the entire classes decide to buy some. A lot of assortments and souvenirs of different variants that one would wish he was a billionaire. Undoubtedly, employees of the gift shop will be having a great time with these many customers. And Sakurako's group is one of them.

Yui's group is not far, though; the meddling of the delinquent blonde was indeed too much to handle. At the very least, she hasn't bother Sakurako yet. Whereas the redhead and the pink head are busy with choosing treats, Himawari is busy examining the flimsy yet delicate houseware. But none could interest Sakurako's needs while she stares at the numbers of boxes on display. That alone enough to bother the beautiful, young Furutani.

"Are you looking for something?"

"Hmm…" Sakurako paused for a moment, and her eyes looked weary about. "What do you suggest?"

"I think you should buy some of Kyoto's original treats for your sisters."

The blonde nods though seemed a bit hesitant. "Do they sell books here?"

"It's right in that corner," Himawari pointed.

"Okay, I'll buy a book for myself and Onee-chan," said the blonde, which was unexpected for Himawari. "Hmn…"

"Is there… something wrong?"

"Hang on," Sakurako signaled a staff. "Jūgyōin-san."

"Yes?" the employee replied with her mandatory smile.

"Do you sell weapons?"

The two glare at her, the employee being the one who had her eyes shaded. "Excuse me?"

"Like a wooden sword or something," Sakurako cleared up.

"Oh, you mean Bokutou right over there?" the employee pointed at where filled with that same delinquent blonde.

"Um, is there anything else?" no way she'll be anywhere near her.

"Well, we happened to sell batons for self-protection."

Himawari widens her eyes at the answer; that's the first she heard this shop sell that kind of weapon. Nevertheless, that doesn't mean she could say the same for the blonde. Instead, the blonde was already piqued at its peak.

"What kind of batons?"

In summary, it is sufficed to say that Sakurako is beyond joyful for taking part in this trip.