Chapter Three: First Strike
Author's Note: Again, the translations can be found at the end of the fic. This is a pretty long part - hope you guys can be patient with it. But all the things that happened here are important for the development.
***
Sanzo pushed the door open to the faculty. He had just come from his first class, which lasted for two hours - he was on break now and so he decided to retreat back to his office. Going to his table, he sat down - leaned back and put on his reading glasses as he began to read the book he had been finishing a few days from then.
It was then that he noticed the simple white envelope by the side of his table. It had his name on it, the address of the university. He saw the return address and it was from his folks in Kyoto. Annoyed, he took it and ripped the envelope open, not even bothering to do it gently. He pulled out the folded letter and began to read as he unfolded it.
Sanzo,
We can only do so much. Your father is sick, and I don't have the patience for this and neither do the other people in this temple. We're sending Son Goku back to you - he's your responsibility since you picked him up. He'll be there as soon as tomorrow and we won't be taking no for an answer.
He sighed and leaned back, crumpling the letter and tossing it to the bin. His father was the head monk of one of the Buddhist temples in Kyoto - disappointed as Sanzo rejected his duties to become the head monk of the said temple and moved to Tokyo away from them. Son Goku was a young boy he had picked up three years back. Apparently, the boy had run away from the orphanage - after wandering for a while, got hungry and stole one of the peaches by the fruit stands. He was chased down and as he was running, he bumped into Sanzo who covered up for him and took him home with him to the temple for some apparent reason that he himself didn't know or understand.
And now after years, they were sending him back. It annoyed him a bit that besides from his children, Goku would be making noise and asking for food every five minutes of the day. But he knew that he had no choice and that his wife wouldn't really mind - not to mention his children would be fine with it as long as he doesn't bother them.
He leaned back and took his pack of cigarettes from his breast pocket. Taking a stick, he lighted it and leaned back as he looked up and sighed.
''After so many years, huh?''
''Good morning, Genjo-sensei.'' Hakkai greeted warmly, but you could tell there was a note of sarcasm in his voice.
Sanzo looked up and scowled for a moment before looking back ahead and leaning back, still smoking. ''What the hell do you want, Hakkai?'' he asked.
''You know, you're not supposed to smoke here.'' He said again.
''Hm. I don't care, it's my cubicle.'' He answered. Hakkai smiled at the disgruntled blonde as he sighed and looked up. ''Did Miori tell you that you were being called to the guidance office?''
Sanzo looked up and glanced at him. ''What are you talking about?'' he asked.
''She and Rie ran into a little trouble and they had no choice but to fight back.''
''Hm. If that's the case then it doesn't matter does it?''
''I knew you'd be very understanding.'' Hakkai laughed softly. ''Otousama.''
''Shut-up.''
There was a few moments of silence, before Sanzo looked up. Hakkai knew something was bothering him - and he knew better than to ask, since he knew he probably wasn't going to get a straight answer. Sanzo wasn't the type to tell someone what he was particularly feeling. He saw the envelope by the side of the table, with his name and from where it came from.
''One of your aunts?'' he asked.
''Aa.'' Sanzo answered. ''Just bothering me again.''
''It's not your father is it?''
''No. That old man has more than three hundred more years to live.'' The blonde paused.
''How is Goku doing?''
''You'll know yourself by today or tomorrow.''
''Eh?''
Sanzo looked back at Hakkai and put out his cigarette as it was almost finished. He took a deep breath and removed his reading glasses.
''They're giving Goku back. They can't handle him over there, they've got my father to worry about already.''
''Is he alright?''
''He's fine, I'm guessing. But it'll be noisier around the house now.'' there was a vein ticking by the side of his head as he said that. ''But I've got no choice.''
Hakkai laughed softly. ''At least things around the house would be more cheerful.''
Sanzo scowled and was about to say something when a voice laughed. Both of them looked up to see a man with short brown hair and eyes, he had reading glasses with dark lenses and his suit and tie looked a little disheveled. Both of them frowned slightly as he stepped in the cubicle.
''Well, well. It looks to me that the best professor of Philosophy around is now slacking off.'' He said with a smirk. ''Yo.''
''I don't care what you're doing here. Get the hell out.'' Sanzo spat out in annoyance as he turned away.
''Sumimasen. Sanzo isn't in a very good mood right now.'' Hakkai said with a smirk. ''Now isn't the time to be messing around with him, Saneda- sensei.''
Saneda laughed and removed his glasses for a while and looked at them. ''Congratulations on Tanaka-sensei suddenly becoming interested in your papers.'' He smirked. ''I have to agree, your points and arguments were impressive.''
''I said get the hell out of here.'' Sanzo plainly replied. Saneda wasn't one of their best friends as everyone could tell. Then again, it was hard to like a guy who was a complete leech. He was a manipulative bastard, he loved seeing people in complete misery, he'd side with the one he knew he had the biggest chance of winning and surviving and he didn't really mind pulling a nasty trick to survive another day. They've known this man since college and since then he's already been bugging them almost about everything.
Saneda smirked as he glanced back at the two of them. ''If you're so busy, then I will be on my way. I just wanted to wish you all for the best.'' He stopped and paused as he saw the picture by the corner of his table of his wife and his two children. It wasn't up in a frame but it was lying there. He smirked and laughed again.
''By the way, Genjo-sensei. How are your children?''
''None of your business.'' Came the answer.
''Hm. Your daughter is growing up to be very lovely. And your son is starting to look like you even more.'' He paused. ''They are very precious things aren't they?''
Sanzo frowned as he noticed the change in Saneda's voice. He looked at the professor and scowled. ''What the hell is it to you?''
''I'm just stating a fact.'' He looked at Hakkai. ''And how is your family, Cho-sensei?''
''They're doing just fine.'' His smirk was getting scarier by the moment. As he glanced at the brunette haired teacher. ''I guess I should thank you for asking.''
''Parents love their children infinitely no matter what happens between them.'' Saneda continued. ''And they will go through whatever kind of measures if something were to happen between them.''
Now both men were looking at Saneda with intent murder in their eyes. The difference is, Hakkai still had a sardonic smirk on his face while Sanzo had just the glare that could have probably sent a stampede of bulls to run back the opposite direction.
''Ah! Of course, your wives!'' Saneda smirked again, continuing to push buttons. ''Mika-san is looking younger everyday. I saw her in her class an hour ago. I had to stop and look at her for a straight five minutes. You're very lucky to have a woman such as her with you.''
Sanzo was glaring still at him as he continued. ''She looks so lively - more than the usual. If I had a woman like her to myself - the things I would do.'' he laughed as he glanced at Hakkai. ''And Hotaru-san, how is she?''
''I think you're going a little too far, Saneda-san.'' Hakkai said. His voice changed tones from gentle and clear now stern and a little frightening. ''I think you should leave the both of us alone.''
''It's a shame, Hotaru-san didn't agree to my advances back in college. You know if I could, I'd probably still go at her now.''
That comment just about almost made Hakkai kill the man in an instant. But instead the smirk gone from his face, now replaced by the determined and intimidating look which he got once in a while.
''Please, leave.'' He said, his voice cold and very chilling.
Saneda laughed and put his glasses back on. ''I was only trying to make a friendly conversation.'' He turned away and smirked. ''Genjo-sensei, Cho- sensei.'' he paused. ''Please keep in mind to always watch over the important people in your life. Never take them for granted no matter how annoying.'' he started to walk off. ''You never know - they could be well gone from your grasp the very next day.''
Sanzo kept his glare at Saneda as he left the cubicle. There was something strange about him now - and it was so much clearer now that he was definitely up to something. He glanced back at the picture.
Gone from your grasp? His mind trailed off.
''I better go back to the literature faculty and check on Mika-san.'' Sanzo knew he was now thinking about Hotaru. It couldn't have been bothering him that much. Could it? Maybe he knew that Hakkai also figured out the Saneda was up to something.
''Oi, Hakkai.''
''Nan desu?''
Sanzo paused. ''Iya. betsuni.'' and he turned back to his books, shaking his head.
I must be going crazy. If I let that bother me. I won't anymore.
****
Mika sighed as she leaned back and adjusted her reading glasses. Looking back at her class records she took a deep breath and looked through some other folders that she prepared for her next class. It had been a busy morning for her already. She had a seminar at two to attend to and of course, she had classes from here to the next building. She wondered if she was going to get home in time to cook dinner. They really needed help around the house, her husband said. She was starting to believe that. Their kids always went home ahead and Eiri had to fix up something - which was alright for Miori. She had no room to complain since she didn't know a thing about cooking.
She looked up as he phone rang, picking it up, she answered. ''Hai.''
''Hello, Mika-chan.'' A familiar voice greeted. Mika smiled as she leaned back and crossed her legs.
''Hotaru-chan deshoo?'' she asked. ''Good to hear from you. But this early? Are your clients out on a break or something?''
''Something of the sort. I wanted to see how things were going in the Genjo household.'' She said almost teasingly as she laughed. ''How is Sanzo anyway?''
''Still disgruntled as ever.'' Mika said with a slight smile and a soft laugh. She shook her head. ''Looks like Tanaka-sensei wants to make his contributions to the professor's writing guild journal into a book.''
''Hm. Still the best around isn't he?'' Hotaru said with a laugh. ''Anata has his contributions too - they've been paying pretty good attention to it, too. I hear.''
''Eh. All the female students love reading Cho-sensei's work.'' Mika said. ''Tanaka-sensei was thinking of putting their entries in one book since they're both so good.''
''Isn't that just Genjo-sensei's dream?'' Hotaru answered sarcastically. Mika laughed again.
''You've been both busy lately?'' Mika asked.
''Yeah. Clients are flooding everywhere - The new band around here, Crash force -''
''Their popularity is rocketing sky high.'' Mika continued.
''Yeah - they picked a good company to depend on.'' Hotaru paused.
''They picked a good agent.''
Hotaru laughed ''We managed to snag the front page for them this morning. Not to mention, I'm in the middle of booking their flights and arranging their congratulatory party this weekend. It's going to be the biggest ever.''
''So I hear.''
''One of my clients is getting married, too. They wanted me to arrange the whole thing - I'm here in the cathedral right now - '' she paused and called to one of the workers. ''That's enough ribbon!''
Mika laughed as she got back to the phone. ''I thought you only handled connections?''
''They wanted me to do the wedding arrangements.'' Hotaru said with a sigh. ''I couldn't refuse. They were good friends of mine.''
''You ever considered doing this for a profession instead?'' Mika asked.
''You know what. I was. ''
''You should re-think that then.''
''How are you doing over there anyway?''
''Busy. Lectures, Seminars and meetings here and there-'' Mika took her organizer and looked at the calendar. ''But that's basically - '' she paused.
''Mika? Mika what's wrong?'' Hotaru asked. ''Mika?''
She didn't reply as she looked at the past two weeks in her calendar. She counted just to make sure - she shook her head.
''Mika, are you still there? Hello!''
''That's not right.'' Mika said softly. ''Oh. I'm sorry.'' She shook her head. ''I was just - surprised about something.''
''What is it?''
''It's just that - I'm two weeks late.''
''Two weeks late?'' Hotaru paused. There was a moment of silence before Hotaru gasped. ''Oh my god, Mika - no! It can't be what I think it is! -''
Mika looked up and then laughed and shook her head.
''No. It probably isn't. Come on, Hotaru - don't overblow this.''
''Come on, Mika! You're two weeks late!'' she sounded excited now not to mention happy. ''Naomi and I are going to be aunts! Again!'' she paused again. ''Does Sanzo, know?''
''No. I didn't even know I was late until now.'' Mika shook her head. ''Come on, Hotaru. It can't be it. '' she paused. ''Then again. the signs are.''
''What else could it be. '' Hotaru sighed. ''Come on, Mika! This is so great! I can't believe this is your third child!'' she paused again. ''I'm going to put Naomi on speed dial!''
''Hotaru!'' Mika sighed and shook her head. Her bestfriend could be so excitable at times. There was a short ringing sound and then a voice spoke up.
''Hello?'' Naomi answered.
''Naomi! It's Hotaru!'' she greeted. ''Are you busy?''
''No. I'm on my lunch break. Why?'' she asked.
''Did you know something?''
''Don't hog the conversation as If I wasn't here.'' Mika said with a smirk.
''Hey, Mika. How's the disgruntled pretty boy?'' Naomi said with a laugh. ''Are you giving him his daily dosage of tension release, Hm?''
She had an incredible gift of making everything sound dirty. Mika sighed and shook her head.
''I should think so, Mika-chan here is about two weeks late. ''
''Hou, hou.'' Naomi's voice was now playful. ''Another little guy, huh?''
''Hotaru's just a little too excited. I could just be irregular because I hadn't been getting enough sleep. It happens to me.''
''I wonder what the reason for that could be?'' Naomi asked.
Mika scowled slightly, arched an eyebrow. ''Are you going to keep talking like this?'' she asked quite sternly, but she wasn't angry. She was used to Naomi's comments.
''What? Naomi-chan could be making a lot of sense right now.'' Hotaru said as she laughed.
''When was the last time you guys had sex?'' Naomi suddenly blurted out. Mika's eyes widened, but she kept her scowl.
''Ah. You don't have to answer that.'' Hotaru quickly added as she laughed sheepishly. ''But it would help a lot, try to remember if you guys did - ''
There was laughter heard from behind her. She looked up and turned around her, Saneda was standing there smirking at her. She scowled and sighed as she shook her head.
''Listen girls, I'll call back later. I have to get back to work.'' She paused and nodded.
''Invite me to the baby shower.'' Naomi said with a sarcastic laugh.
''I can't wait till Sanzo finds out.'' Hotaru added.
Mika sighed and smiled slightly as she dropped the phone. She looked back at Saneda.
''What do you want, Saneda-san?'' she asked calmly as she looked up.
''Your dear husband asked me to check on you.'' he answered with a wave of a hand as he entered the cubicle. ''Incidentally how are you doing?''
Mika arched an eyebrow and crossed her arms. ''Eh? Sanzo actually talked to you?'' She didn't like him much. She hated it that when they were in college, he kept following her and Hotaru around. Hotaru was more of his type, but he tried her out, too. Needless to say - one rejection from Mika was enough for him to back off. People knew better than to force themselves on her when she didn't like them.
He raised both hands slightly and sighed. ''Alright, Alright. You got me.'' he looked up at her and smirked. ''I wanted to see you myself. I couldn't stop thinking about you.''
''If you've got nothing else to say to me.'' she remained soft-spoken as she turned away to go back to her work.
''I overheard your conversation - congratulations on your new addition to the family.'' He said. Mika didn't say anything she kept looking through her notebooks and books. She heard footsteps approaching her - she paused as Saneda took her hand, looking up at him, her face not scowling or frowning. She remained neutral as he lifted her hand up.
''Your daughter looks so much like you.'' he said with a smirk. ''No wonder young men flock over her.'' his grip got tighter. ''But do you know what?'' he laughed. ''Some of them could be VERY dangerous.''
There was a threatening tone in his voice that somehow made her nervous about being around him all of the sudden. Why the sudden interest in her daughter? Her heart was pounding against her breast, his glance was chilling and his smirk was frightening.
''Hanashite!'' she scowled, her eyebrow arched as she pulled her hand away. ''I told you, if you don't have anything to say to me. Get out, now.'' she turned back to her work. Saneda smirked and waved a hand as he walked to the door. ''Be careful, Mika-chan. I know you love your daughter - and you wouldn't want to lose her.'' he laughed as he walked off. ''And warn your friends about the same thing.''
Mika looked up, a slight nervous expression on her face. But she shook her head. What was Saneda, really?
***
''You children are so lazy! You'd do anything to skip school!''
Miori winced at the tone of their newest replacement, Kasahara Emiko- sensei. She was nothing the students dreamed of having around. They've had bad experiences with bad teachers before, but this was something else. She came in and introduced herself - while filing her nails. And without even discussing anything, told them to read about six or more chapters of their science textbook. She didn't even bother to discuss any of the lessons. When students would approach her to ask questions, she would get annoyed and tell them that she was busy when in fact the only thing she did was sit her ass on the teacher's chair and do her nails.
Now, she was angry. A classmate of hers approached her and asked to go to the clinic since she was suffering from a really bad headache - Kasahara- sensei was immediately enraged and now started nagging them no end about how useless and lazy they were. Miori shook her head and looked at Rie, who was her seatmate and who was also frowning at the newest teacher.
Kasahara-sensei frowned and sighed as she now proceeded to painting her nails. ''Now, just to make sure that you're all punished for this. ''You'll have a fifty item exam tomorrow on the six chapters I asked you to read.''
Everyone groaned and the poor student winced as he headed back for her seat.
''Is she a pain or what?'' Miori asked with a frown.
''I'd have to agree there.'' Rie said softly. ''She's also teaching the second years. That means Natsumi-sempai has her for a teacher, too.''
''She'd better not do anything to piss Natsumi off.'' Miori said as she sighed. ''You know how she gets.''
''Eh.'' She looked up. ''You think our brothers got her, too?''
''Without a doubt.'' Miori said with a nod. Her magenta colored eyes glancing at Kasahara as she yawned.
Kasahara-sensei smirked as she glanced at the two girls. She leaned back and let out a soft laugh - Rie noticed the way she looked at them and blinked.
''Miori - did you just? -''
''Eh?'' Miori asked looking up. ''What's up?''
''N-Nothing. I must be imagining things.'' Rie paused and shook her head.
Everyone's prayers were answered as the school bell rung. Everyone wasted no time in getting up and rushing to the door, Kasahara didn't look at them as they left, but from the corner of her eye - kept a close look at the girls. Rie noticed again, but shook her head as she tried to tell herself she was being paranoid.
''I have to meet up with my brother.'' Miori said with a heavy tone in her voice. ''What about you?''
''I better meet up with nichan, too. With all the things we have to do for tomorrow.'' She said. ''I guess I'll call you. His classroom's over there. ''
''Eh. Both of you be careful, alright?'' Miori started to walk away as she waved at her friend, heading for the outside to where they were supposed to meet. They liked meeting there since it was the back part of the school and not much kids went there alone. Miori and Eiri were known to stay away from crowds (as they got from their parents) so, they had no problems there. She quickened her footsteps and headed off.
***
Saneda started to walk back to the backroom of the university, he smirked as he slung his bag over his shoulder and looked up as he walked on.
''You're giving away too much, Saneda.'' a female voice said as he stopped in his tracks. ''We told you to stay away from the parents until we've gotten the children.''
Saneda waved a hand and sighed. ''There are a hundred ways to kill a chicken. The important thing is, it's dead. '' he smirked and glanced behind him. ''It won't matter anymore - since they'll be dead by tomorrow.''
''Hm. You'd better be sure of that or it's you who's going to end up dead.'' Clicking of heels were heard, walking off from him. ''Tomorrow, we'll have the children. And then you kill the parents, you'll have help with you. In case you can't do it.''
''I've never failed you before.'' Saneda said as she continued walking off. ''Besides, the secret to this mission is knowing which buttons to push.''
And there was nothing more between them.
***
Miori looked up as his brother finally came towards her.
''Finally.'' She said with a frown. ''What took you so long?''
''I had a few things to do.'' Eiri answered plainly. ''Come on, let's just go.''
They started to walk off and there wasn't much of a conversation between them. Eiri wasn't the kind to talk about what his day was like, and Miori always gave him room to be that way. There wasn't much noise besides the laughing, screaming, giggling from a far which was the main school grounds.
Eiri stepped on a twig as he stopped and looked up. Miori paused and glanced at her brother.
''Nichan, what's up?''
Eiri didn't say anything. He kept looking around - and then after a few moments, there were running footsteps towards them. His eyes widened and he leapt over and pushed his sister out of the way.
''Doiterou!''
Miori gasped as she landed on the ground with her brother on top of her, shielding her. Arrows suddenly landed on the ground where they were standing a while ago.
''What was that?!' Miori asked as she looked around. ''Nichan!''
Eiri winced as he was grazed on the shoulder. He looked up as he heard laughter, both of them looked behind and saw a man dressed in casual clothes as well. But there was a BIG difference - he wasn't normal at all. His nails were claws instead of normal nails. His ears were pointed and his fangs were exposed as he grinned at them.
''I finally found the two of you.'' he said as he approached them. Miori frowned at him and pulled her brother to her side.
''Who the hell are you! Get away from us!'' She embraced her brother who only glared at the coming man.
''I've been sent to kill Genjo Sanzo's children.'' He grinned. ''I'm a youkai, you should know.''
''Youkai?'' Eiri trailed off as he glared at him. ''What the hell kind of a joke is this?'' he gripped on his sister's arm. ''Who the hell are you?''
''Don't play stupid with me! You know what I'm talking about!'' the youkai roared.
''I don't know what the hell you're here for, but get the hell out of our way and don't you dare show yourself again.'' Miori knew his brother was serious. She looked at him, the annoyed and threatening look on his face.
''Then in that case, you've got no choice but to fight me until one of us dies.'' the youkai took out two blades and started to attack.
Eiri scowled and smirked slightly as he looked at the coming youkai. 'So, that's your answer.''
Miori looked around, still in surprise but she knew that she had to recover. She saw old bamboo swords that were thrown out from the kendo class room. She wasted no time and started to run for them, picking them up - taking one for herself and calling to her brother.
''Nichan! Catch!''
Eiri looked up and caught the bamboo stick thrown at him - he stopped the coming blades and was able to push the youkai back.
''You're not going to get near me or my sister.'' Eiri snapped at him. ''I'd kill you first.''
***
Satoshi dropped his books and looked up, his eyes wide in surprise. Rie stopped and looked at his brother.
''Oni-hue? Oni-hue? What's wrong?''
Satoshi paused and didn't say anything for a moment. Before he spoke softly as he looked around. ''Just now, I thought I heard someone laughing.''
''Maybe it's one of the neighborhood people.'' Rie said with the tone of doubt in her voice. She looked around and saw that no one was there with them.
Satoshi smiled slightly and sighed. ''Maybe I've been watching too much TV or something - these really bad slasher films are starting to get to me.'' he laughed, which made his sister smile and sweatflood.
Rie laughed softly and they kept walking. When suddenly, Satoshi gasped, his eyes widening as he pulled his sister by the wrist.
''Rie! Move away!''
A dagger suddenly plunged through the ground she was standing on a moment before. They both looked up as there was a loud yell, they looked up to see a stranger with pointed ears, sharp claws and fangs jumping down from the tree, holding up what seemed to be a broadsword.
Satoshi pulled his sister towards him, embracing her and moving back with her as the stranger lunged at them with the sword aimed.
''What's going on?!'' Rie cried as they kept moving back. The stranger wasn't stopping at all, Satoshi frowned slightly and managed to kick him back. The stranger cried out as he landed pretty hard on the ground.
''Rie, are you alright?'' Satoshi asked. ''You're not hurt are you?''
Rie kept his eye on the recovering attacker. ''Who is this guy?''
Satoshi looked up and stepped in front of her sister, looking at the man with a stern look on his face. ''Who are you?'' he asked. His voice was cold.
The man let out a laugh, his claws glimmered as he held them up. ''I'm here to kill Cho Hakkai's children.''
''Kill - us?'' Rie trailed off frowning. ''What is this? - '' she asked. The man stepped up, holding his broadsword.
''Rie. I want you to run the opposite direction. Get straight home.'' Satoshi said softly.
''Oni-hue! I'm not leaving you here!''
''Rie! -''
The man attacked again. Satoshi looked up and blocked the sword with both his hands, wincing as they were wounded and bled. He looked at him.
''What are you?'' Satoshi asked, struggling to push the sword back.
''Don't play stupid with me, Cho Satoshi.'' the man grinned. ''I'm a youkai - you're perfectly aware of that.''
''Youkai?!'' his eyes widened as he was pushed back. He winced as he landed on the ground, Rie gasped and ran to him.
''Oni-hue!'' she called worriedly. She looked as the youkai jumped up, holding up his broadsword.
''Die!'' he yelled as he laughed maniacally.
Rie screamed as she embraced her brother - there was suddenly a strange sort of electrical sensation passed through her. Her eyes widened as she looked up - she saw her hands. Green sparks forming around them.
''What? -''
She trailed off as the youkai inched closer and she screamed again as a painful sensation shot up her back.
***
Natsumi looked up as Aki was looking around suspiciously. She paused and looked at him.
''Aniki, what's wrong?'' she asked, now she looked around, too. ''You're looking around like a slasher's about to pop out any minute now.''
''Only because you're absolutely right.'' Aki said with a smirk, he suddenly whirled behind him. Natsumi gasped as blocked a coming blur with his books. Of course, his books were cut in half and they went flying off into separate directions. Aki smirked and pushed the force back with incredible strength. There was a loud thud on the floor.
''Yo, kuso otoko.'' he said in a smooth and arrogant voice. ''Just what the hell is with the violent introduction?''
A man stood up. But there was something different about him, his ears were pointed and his nails were claws instead of normal names - Natsumi paused and blinked.
''Holy crap! Is that a youkai?!'' she almost yelled in surprise.
Aki looked at her with a perplexed look on his face. ''You know about these guys?''
''Doesn't anyone ever read anymore?'' Natsumi asked as she frowned and rolled her eyes.
The youkai looked insulted. ''You have time to talk while I'm here?!'' he exposed his sharp claws. ''Act afraid or something!''
''What the hell is a youkai doing here?!'' Aki asked still in amazement.
''Whatever the hell he's doing here, he's not about to invite us to a tea party that's for sure.'' Natsumi answered as he held up the claws.
''I was sent to kill Sha Gojyo's children!'' the youkai said with a grin. ''And that's exactly what I'm going to do.''
Natsumi and Aki both looked up smirking.
''Frankly, I don't care what you're doing here or what the hell you really are - I don't know either. But you're sure as hell not going to do that!'' Aki said arrogantly as he smirked.
****
Eiri avoided the blades as he glared at the youkai intently. He was quick, he admitted that - Miori tried to strike a few times, but the youkai kept jumping away from where he stood. Miori was now frustrated and annoyed - as she clutched the sword again and tried to attack. The youkai grinned as he whirled right behind him and chopped off the bamboo sword she held. Miori cried out shortly in surprise as she fell to the ground.
''Miori!'' Eiri called, his eyes widening as he started to run towards the youkai who hovered above his sister and held up the blades.
Miori frowned and raised up a foot, kicking the youkai right between the legs. The youkai yelped as he fell back on the ground and dropped his blades. Eiri took the opportunity as he kicked the youkai on the face and picked up the two blades, aiming it at his neck.
''Five seconds. Who are you and what the hell are you really here for?''
''Hm. If you think it's that easy to squeeze an answer out of us.''
The blades were pressed even harder on his neck - the youkai screamed in fear and pain as Eiri glared at him impatiently.
''Three seconds. Or I'll rip your throat apart. Who sent you and what the hell are you here for?''
Miori dusted herself off and stood behind her brother.
''Ii ka! - We were -''
A gun suddenly resounded through the road and the youkai screamed again. He started to disappear, Eiri and Miori watching in shock as there was silence around them once more.
''Who was that?!'' Miori asked looking around.
Eiri noticed a car, which suddenly ran past them. He scowled as he watched it drive away further and further. His brows met slightly and his sister noticed this, too. Both of them watching as it disappeared from their sight. Miori had to look at the two blades on the ground and touch them as to make sure she wasn't dreaming or losing her mind.
''They're real. A youkai was actually here.'' she trailed off, breathlessly as she glanced at her brother.
Eiri looked up and took his sister's hand. ''Let's go before any of them show up.''
''We're not going to tell mom and dad, are we?'' she asked in an unsure tone.
''No. They don't have to know. They'll never believe it anyway.''
''I guess you're right.''
Eiri looked around cautiously as he lead his little sister home.
***
Rie's eyes snapped open as she looked up. She heard a shriek and what sounded like a quick explosion - she looked around her and saw that she was covered in blood. She backed away, but kept her arms around her brother. Who was looking around, surprised as he was seeing the same thing she was. There was blood staining him as well - he looked at his sister and embraced her as she seemed her best to stay calm - but she was shaking.
''Rie, you're not hurt are you?'' Satoshi asked worriedly.
Rie only shook her head. Somehow she was too shocked to say anything and was still busy trying to register what had just happened. She looked at her brother - she wasn't crying or anything. But it looked like she needed a while before she could say anything. She only nodded and held onto her brother.
''Are you alright?'' she managed to say in a calm voice.
Satoshi sighed in relief. God knows what his mother would say and think if she went home bloodied and shaking. ''Yokatta desu ne.'' he said as he got up. It didn't change the fact that a stab of guilt shot up his back that he wasn't the one who protected his sister when it was HIS job to do so. He always wanted Rie to be safe from anything - it turned out that she saved them.
''What was that I just felt?'' Rie said looking at her hands. ''What just happened to me?''
''That - youkai died because of you - right?'' Satoshi said directly. Rie paused and looked up as she shook her head. This was getting weirder.
''Come on, let's go home before anyone sees us.'' Her brother's words snapped her back to reality as he took her hand. ''When we get home we have to change and clean up in a hurry - we can't let mom see this, she'll freak out on us.''
Rie nodded, they headed home and she looked back at her hands.
That came from me. She thought.
Why? I felt scared and then this jolt of pain went through my back. and all of the sudden - it was warm - I felt as if nothing could get near Oni-hue and I.
She paused and looked ahead.
Next thing I knew, the youkai was dead.
How did I do that?
***
Aki looked up as he pulled out the long tree branch, which he had used to stab the youkai with great ease. It was taking too long to beat him and he did say the only way to stop him was to kill him. So, they did as he was told. He and Natsumi were having a hell of a time beating the guy to a pulp. Natsumi was pretty much disturbed of what the youkai told them before her brother shut-him up permanently with the bamboo branch.
It's not over yet. We'll be after you. Every single one of you. Make sure to ask your parents about it.
''Oi, Natsumi.''
''Eh?'' she looked up and Aki had just disposed of the murder weapon. She shook her head and looked around. ''Are you sure he was the last one?''
''Aa.'' Aki answered. ''I guess. What the hell is a youkai doing here? And why do they seem to be particularly fond of us?'' he asked.
''How should I know?'' she paused. ''Why did he say to ask our parents about it?''
''Whoa.'' Aki paused and laughed as he shook his head. ''No, you don't suggest that they have something to do with this.. do you?'' he trailed off.
''Why the hell else would he say that?'' Natsumi asked, frowning slightly. She sighed and shook her head. ''I don't think we should tell them, though. Tousan's never going to believe us anyway. ''
''You're reading my mind.'' Aki said. ''Come on let's go.''
As they walked on, Aki paused and looked up. ''Though, I wonder.''
''Eh?''
''I wonder if this'll be the last one.''
''I doubt that. somehow. I hope I'm wrong.'' Natsumi answered.
***
Sanzo turned off the engine of the car and Mika was removing her seatbelt. She looked at him as he paused and scowled. She took time to study him before she asked.
''What's wrong now?'' she asked. It wasn't long before she heard a voice outside the car.
''Oi! Sanzo!'' she looked up to see a young boy who looked around he was eighteen. Light brown hair and beautiful golden eyes which no one could have probably regarded as ordinary. He standing in the front porch and waving at them as he smiled.
''Anou baka saru.'' Sanzo trailed off as he opened the door to his car. ''You remember him don't you?'' he asked, not getting out yet, looking at his wife.
''Goku?'' she asked. Suddenly smiling and laughing softly. ''So, it is Goku. I haven't seen him since he was fifteen!''
''It's been a while, alright. And he's still as loud as ever.'' Sanzo said in an annoyed tone.
''I'm sure he'll note how friendlier you've become through the years, too.'' She said in a gentle and sarcastic tone.
Sanzo glanced at her again as she smirked slightly. He shook his head and looked up as Goku was calling again.
''Oi! Sanzo! Out here!'' he smiled and waved. ''Mika! I'm out here!''
They stepped out of the car and Goku immediately came running to the two of them. He smiled and hugged Mika tightly and happily as he did, smiling cheerfully as he did a few years back when she last saw him.
''Mika-chan! I'm so glad to see you!''
Mika laughed and pinched his cheek as she patted him gently. ''Let me guess, you're hungry.'' She smiled gently at him as she had always loved the young boy. Sanzo was still neutral and looking at him - Goku looked up and smiled.
''It's about time you guys got home, too!'' he said, frowning slightly. ''I was getting so hungry! I've been waiting here all afternoon!'' he tugged at Mika's hand. ''Ne, ne? Do you guys have anything to eat? --''
Mika was about to say something when a harisen came crashing down Goku's head. He yelped and slumped down the ground.
''Urusai! You just got here and you're making too much noise already!'' he said, irritated.
Mika sighed and shook her head, she helped Goku up. ''Come on, Come on. I'll feed you something before you both blow a fuse.'' She put a hand on her hip. ''This way, then. Sanzo's virtue isn't exactly patience.''
''Oi, Mika. '' he was cut off as Goku kept naming the things he wanted to eat. The blonde only sighed and scowled as he followed the two of them inside.
***
''Did you get rid of him?''
A car window pulled down, Saneda smirked and peered out, waving the smith and wesson forty-five at the woman with long black hair and dark blue eyes. He chuckled and nodded.
''Done like you asked, Ming-chan.'' He answered. ''Killed him like a dog before he could say anything.''
''Good. Or I would have had to kill you.'' Ming said ''Remember Gyoukumen Koushu-sama's order. Kill the Sanzo-ikkou and their families.''
''Ryoukaishita, fearless leader!'' Saneda said mockingly as he saluted, supposedly. ''The Sanzo-ikkou and their respective families will be dead by tomorrow night.''
''Now get lost before I kill you anyway.'' She snapped coldly as she began to walk off.
''Ming-chan's getting scary.'' he said pulling the window to a close. ''Better get to work then.''
~TSUZUKU~
Translations:
deshoo -- way of asking a question besides 'desu ka' Nan desu -- 'What' Hanashite -- Well, it could either mean 'let's talk' or 'let go of me' in this case, it's the second one. Doiterou -- 'get down!' Oni-hue, Nichan, Aniki -- all translate to 'big brother' 'kuso otoko' -- it's just one of the many ways to say something rude about someone. Doesn't have a literal translation and if there was. It isn't pretty. Ii ka, Ii kara -- okay 'Yokatta desu ne' -- I'm glad Ryoukaishita -- Roger
Author's Note: Again, the translations can be found at the end of the fic. This is a pretty long part - hope you guys can be patient with it. But all the things that happened here are important for the development.
***
Sanzo pushed the door open to the faculty. He had just come from his first class, which lasted for two hours - he was on break now and so he decided to retreat back to his office. Going to his table, he sat down - leaned back and put on his reading glasses as he began to read the book he had been finishing a few days from then.
It was then that he noticed the simple white envelope by the side of his table. It had his name on it, the address of the university. He saw the return address and it was from his folks in Kyoto. Annoyed, he took it and ripped the envelope open, not even bothering to do it gently. He pulled out the folded letter and began to read as he unfolded it.
Sanzo,
We can only do so much. Your father is sick, and I don't have the patience for this and neither do the other people in this temple. We're sending Son Goku back to you - he's your responsibility since you picked him up. He'll be there as soon as tomorrow and we won't be taking no for an answer.
He sighed and leaned back, crumpling the letter and tossing it to the bin. His father was the head monk of one of the Buddhist temples in Kyoto - disappointed as Sanzo rejected his duties to become the head monk of the said temple and moved to Tokyo away from them. Son Goku was a young boy he had picked up three years back. Apparently, the boy had run away from the orphanage - after wandering for a while, got hungry and stole one of the peaches by the fruit stands. He was chased down and as he was running, he bumped into Sanzo who covered up for him and took him home with him to the temple for some apparent reason that he himself didn't know or understand.
And now after years, they were sending him back. It annoyed him a bit that besides from his children, Goku would be making noise and asking for food every five minutes of the day. But he knew that he had no choice and that his wife wouldn't really mind - not to mention his children would be fine with it as long as he doesn't bother them.
He leaned back and took his pack of cigarettes from his breast pocket. Taking a stick, he lighted it and leaned back as he looked up and sighed.
''After so many years, huh?''
''Good morning, Genjo-sensei.'' Hakkai greeted warmly, but you could tell there was a note of sarcasm in his voice.
Sanzo looked up and scowled for a moment before looking back ahead and leaning back, still smoking. ''What the hell do you want, Hakkai?'' he asked.
''You know, you're not supposed to smoke here.'' He said again.
''Hm. I don't care, it's my cubicle.'' He answered. Hakkai smiled at the disgruntled blonde as he sighed and looked up. ''Did Miori tell you that you were being called to the guidance office?''
Sanzo looked up and glanced at him. ''What are you talking about?'' he asked.
''She and Rie ran into a little trouble and they had no choice but to fight back.''
''Hm. If that's the case then it doesn't matter does it?''
''I knew you'd be very understanding.'' Hakkai laughed softly. ''Otousama.''
''Shut-up.''
There was a few moments of silence, before Sanzo looked up. Hakkai knew something was bothering him - and he knew better than to ask, since he knew he probably wasn't going to get a straight answer. Sanzo wasn't the type to tell someone what he was particularly feeling. He saw the envelope by the side of the table, with his name and from where it came from.
''One of your aunts?'' he asked.
''Aa.'' Sanzo answered. ''Just bothering me again.''
''It's not your father is it?''
''No. That old man has more than three hundred more years to live.'' The blonde paused.
''How is Goku doing?''
''You'll know yourself by today or tomorrow.''
''Eh?''
Sanzo looked back at Hakkai and put out his cigarette as it was almost finished. He took a deep breath and removed his reading glasses.
''They're giving Goku back. They can't handle him over there, they've got my father to worry about already.''
''Is he alright?''
''He's fine, I'm guessing. But it'll be noisier around the house now.'' there was a vein ticking by the side of his head as he said that. ''But I've got no choice.''
Hakkai laughed softly. ''At least things around the house would be more cheerful.''
Sanzo scowled and was about to say something when a voice laughed. Both of them looked up to see a man with short brown hair and eyes, he had reading glasses with dark lenses and his suit and tie looked a little disheveled. Both of them frowned slightly as he stepped in the cubicle.
''Well, well. It looks to me that the best professor of Philosophy around is now slacking off.'' He said with a smirk. ''Yo.''
''I don't care what you're doing here. Get the hell out.'' Sanzo spat out in annoyance as he turned away.
''Sumimasen. Sanzo isn't in a very good mood right now.'' Hakkai said with a smirk. ''Now isn't the time to be messing around with him, Saneda- sensei.''
Saneda laughed and removed his glasses for a while and looked at them. ''Congratulations on Tanaka-sensei suddenly becoming interested in your papers.'' He smirked. ''I have to agree, your points and arguments were impressive.''
''I said get the hell out of here.'' Sanzo plainly replied. Saneda wasn't one of their best friends as everyone could tell. Then again, it was hard to like a guy who was a complete leech. He was a manipulative bastard, he loved seeing people in complete misery, he'd side with the one he knew he had the biggest chance of winning and surviving and he didn't really mind pulling a nasty trick to survive another day. They've known this man since college and since then he's already been bugging them almost about everything.
Saneda smirked as he glanced back at the two of them. ''If you're so busy, then I will be on my way. I just wanted to wish you all for the best.'' He stopped and paused as he saw the picture by the corner of his table of his wife and his two children. It wasn't up in a frame but it was lying there. He smirked and laughed again.
''By the way, Genjo-sensei. How are your children?''
''None of your business.'' Came the answer.
''Hm. Your daughter is growing up to be very lovely. And your son is starting to look like you even more.'' He paused. ''They are very precious things aren't they?''
Sanzo frowned as he noticed the change in Saneda's voice. He looked at the professor and scowled. ''What the hell is it to you?''
''I'm just stating a fact.'' He looked at Hakkai. ''And how is your family, Cho-sensei?''
''They're doing just fine.'' His smirk was getting scarier by the moment. As he glanced at the brunette haired teacher. ''I guess I should thank you for asking.''
''Parents love their children infinitely no matter what happens between them.'' Saneda continued. ''And they will go through whatever kind of measures if something were to happen between them.''
Now both men were looking at Saneda with intent murder in their eyes. The difference is, Hakkai still had a sardonic smirk on his face while Sanzo had just the glare that could have probably sent a stampede of bulls to run back the opposite direction.
''Ah! Of course, your wives!'' Saneda smirked again, continuing to push buttons. ''Mika-san is looking younger everyday. I saw her in her class an hour ago. I had to stop and look at her for a straight five minutes. You're very lucky to have a woman such as her with you.''
Sanzo was glaring still at him as he continued. ''She looks so lively - more than the usual. If I had a woman like her to myself - the things I would do.'' he laughed as he glanced at Hakkai. ''And Hotaru-san, how is she?''
''I think you're going a little too far, Saneda-san.'' Hakkai said. His voice changed tones from gentle and clear now stern and a little frightening. ''I think you should leave the both of us alone.''
''It's a shame, Hotaru-san didn't agree to my advances back in college. You know if I could, I'd probably still go at her now.''
That comment just about almost made Hakkai kill the man in an instant. But instead the smirk gone from his face, now replaced by the determined and intimidating look which he got once in a while.
''Please, leave.'' He said, his voice cold and very chilling.
Saneda laughed and put his glasses back on. ''I was only trying to make a friendly conversation.'' He turned away and smirked. ''Genjo-sensei, Cho- sensei.'' he paused. ''Please keep in mind to always watch over the important people in your life. Never take them for granted no matter how annoying.'' he started to walk off. ''You never know - they could be well gone from your grasp the very next day.''
Sanzo kept his glare at Saneda as he left the cubicle. There was something strange about him now - and it was so much clearer now that he was definitely up to something. He glanced back at the picture.
Gone from your grasp? His mind trailed off.
''I better go back to the literature faculty and check on Mika-san.'' Sanzo knew he was now thinking about Hotaru. It couldn't have been bothering him that much. Could it? Maybe he knew that Hakkai also figured out the Saneda was up to something.
''Oi, Hakkai.''
''Nan desu?''
Sanzo paused. ''Iya. betsuni.'' and he turned back to his books, shaking his head.
I must be going crazy. If I let that bother me. I won't anymore.
****
Mika sighed as she leaned back and adjusted her reading glasses. Looking back at her class records she took a deep breath and looked through some other folders that she prepared for her next class. It had been a busy morning for her already. She had a seminar at two to attend to and of course, she had classes from here to the next building. She wondered if she was going to get home in time to cook dinner. They really needed help around the house, her husband said. She was starting to believe that. Their kids always went home ahead and Eiri had to fix up something - which was alright for Miori. She had no room to complain since she didn't know a thing about cooking.
She looked up as he phone rang, picking it up, she answered. ''Hai.''
''Hello, Mika-chan.'' A familiar voice greeted. Mika smiled as she leaned back and crossed her legs.
''Hotaru-chan deshoo?'' she asked. ''Good to hear from you. But this early? Are your clients out on a break or something?''
''Something of the sort. I wanted to see how things were going in the Genjo household.'' She said almost teasingly as she laughed. ''How is Sanzo anyway?''
''Still disgruntled as ever.'' Mika said with a slight smile and a soft laugh. She shook her head. ''Looks like Tanaka-sensei wants to make his contributions to the professor's writing guild journal into a book.''
''Hm. Still the best around isn't he?'' Hotaru said with a laugh. ''Anata has his contributions too - they've been paying pretty good attention to it, too. I hear.''
''Eh. All the female students love reading Cho-sensei's work.'' Mika said. ''Tanaka-sensei was thinking of putting their entries in one book since they're both so good.''
''Isn't that just Genjo-sensei's dream?'' Hotaru answered sarcastically. Mika laughed again.
''You've been both busy lately?'' Mika asked.
''Yeah. Clients are flooding everywhere - The new band around here, Crash force -''
''Their popularity is rocketing sky high.'' Mika continued.
''Yeah - they picked a good company to depend on.'' Hotaru paused.
''They picked a good agent.''
Hotaru laughed ''We managed to snag the front page for them this morning. Not to mention, I'm in the middle of booking their flights and arranging their congratulatory party this weekend. It's going to be the biggest ever.''
''So I hear.''
''One of my clients is getting married, too. They wanted me to arrange the whole thing - I'm here in the cathedral right now - '' she paused and called to one of the workers. ''That's enough ribbon!''
Mika laughed as she got back to the phone. ''I thought you only handled connections?''
''They wanted me to do the wedding arrangements.'' Hotaru said with a sigh. ''I couldn't refuse. They were good friends of mine.''
''You ever considered doing this for a profession instead?'' Mika asked.
''You know what. I was. ''
''You should re-think that then.''
''How are you doing over there anyway?''
''Busy. Lectures, Seminars and meetings here and there-'' Mika took her organizer and looked at the calendar. ''But that's basically - '' she paused.
''Mika? Mika what's wrong?'' Hotaru asked. ''Mika?''
She didn't reply as she looked at the past two weeks in her calendar. She counted just to make sure - she shook her head.
''Mika, are you still there? Hello!''
''That's not right.'' Mika said softly. ''Oh. I'm sorry.'' She shook her head. ''I was just - surprised about something.''
''What is it?''
''It's just that - I'm two weeks late.''
''Two weeks late?'' Hotaru paused. There was a moment of silence before Hotaru gasped. ''Oh my god, Mika - no! It can't be what I think it is! -''
Mika looked up and then laughed and shook her head.
''No. It probably isn't. Come on, Hotaru - don't overblow this.''
''Come on, Mika! You're two weeks late!'' she sounded excited now not to mention happy. ''Naomi and I are going to be aunts! Again!'' she paused again. ''Does Sanzo, know?''
''No. I didn't even know I was late until now.'' Mika shook her head. ''Come on, Hotaru. It can't be it. '' she paused. ''Then again. the signs are.''
''What else could it be. '' Hotaru sighed. ''Come on, Mika! This is so great! I can't believe this is your third child!'' she paused again. ''I'm going to put Naomi on speed dial!''
''Hotaru!'' Mika sighed and shook her head. Her bestfriend could be so excitable at times. There was a short ringing sound and then a voice spoke up.
''Hello?'' Naomi answered.
''Naomi! It's Hotaru!'' she greeted. ''Are you busy?''
''No. I'm on my lunch break. Why?'' she asked.
''Did you know something?''
''Don't hog the conversation as If I wasn't here.'' Mika said with a smirk.
''Hey, Mika. How's the disgruntled pretty boy?'' Naomi said with a laugh. ''Are you giving him his daily dosage of tension release, Hm?''
She had an incredible gift of making everything sound dirty. Mika sighed and shook her head.
''I should think so, Mika-chan here is about two weeks late. ''
''Hou, hou.'' Naomi's voice was now playful. ''Another little guy, huh?''
''Hotaru's just a little too excited. I could just be irregular because I hadn't been getting enough sleep. It happens to me.''
''I wonder what the reason for that could be?'' Naomi asked.
Mika scowled slightly, arched an eyebrow. ''Are you going to keep talking like this?'' she asked quite sternly, but she wasn't angry. She was used to Naomi's comments.
''What? Naomi-chan could be making a lot of sense right now.'' Hotaru said as she laughed.
''When was the last time you guys had sex?'' Naomi suddenly blurted out. Mika's eyes widened, but she kept her scowl.
''Ah. You don't have to answer that.'' Hotaru quickly added as she laughed sheepishly. ''But it would help a lot, try to remember if you guys did - ''
There was laughter heard from behind her. She looked up and turned around her, Saneda was standing there smirking at her. She scowled and sighed as she shook her head.
''Listen girls, I'll call back later. I have to get back to work.'' She paused and nodded.
''Invite me to the baby shower.'' Naomi said with a sarcastic laugh.
''I can't wait till Sanzo finds out.'' Hotaru added.
Mika sighed and smiled slightly as she dropped the phone. She looked back at Saneda.
''What do you want, Saneda-san?'' she asked calmly as she looked up.
''Your dear husband asked me to check on you.'' he answered with a wave of a hand as he entered the cubicle. ''Incidentally how are you doing?''
Mika arched an eyebrow and crossed her arms. ''Eh? Sanzo actually talked to you?'' She didn't like him much. She hated it that when they were in college, he kept following her and Hotaru around. Hotaru was more of his type, but he tried her out, too. Needless to say - one rejection from Mika was enough for him to back off. People knew better than to force themselves on her when she didn't like them.
He raised both hands slightly and sighed. ''Alright, Alright. You got me.'' he looked up at her and smirked. ''I wanted to see you myself. I couldn't stop thinking about you.''
''If you've got nothing else to say to me.'' she remained soft-spoken as she turned away to go back to her work.
''I overheard your conversation - congratulations on your new addition to the family.'' He said. Mika didn't say anything she kept looking through her notebooks and books. She heard footsteps approaching her - she paused as Saneda took her hand, looking up at him, her face not scowling or frowning. She remained neutral as he lifted her hand up.
''Your daughter looks so much like you.'' he said with a smirk. ''No wonder young men flock over her.'' his grip got tighter. ''But do you know what?'' he laughed. ''Some of them could be VERY dangerous.''
There was a threatening tone in his voice that somehow made her nervous about being around him all of the sudden. Why the sudden interest in her daughter? Her heart was pounding against her breast, his glance was chilling and his smirk was frightening.
''Hanashite!'' she scowled, her eyebrow arched as she pulled her hand away. ''I told you, if you don't have anything to say to me. Get out, now.'' she turned back to her work. Saneda smirked and waved a hand as he walked to the door. ''Be careful, Mika-chan. I know you love your daughter - and you wouldn't want to lose her.'' he laughed as he walked off. ''And warn your friends about the same thing.''
Mika looked up, a slight nervous expression on her face. But she shook her head. What was Saneda, really?
***
''You children are so lazy! You'd do anything to skip school!''
Miori winced at the tone of their newest replacement, Kasahara Emiko- sensei. She was nothing the students dreamed of having around. They've had bad experiences with bad teachers before, but this was something else. She came in and introduced herself - while filing her nails. And without even discussing anything, told them to read about six or more chapters of their science textbook. She didn't even bother to discuss any of the lessons. When students would approach her to ask questions, she would get annoyed and tell them that she was busy when in fact the only thing she did was sit her ass on the teacher's chair and do her nails.
Now, she was angry. A classmate of hers approached her and asked to go to the clinic since she was suffering from a really bad headache - Kasahara- sensei was immediately enraged and now started nagging them no end about how useless and lazy they were. Miori shook her head and looked at Rie, who was her seatmate and who was also frowning at the newest teacher.
Kasahara-sensei frowned and sighed as she now proceeded to painting her nails. ''Now, just to make sure that you're all punished for this. ''You'll have a fifty item exam tomorrow on the six chapters I asked you to read.''
Everyone groaned and the poor student winced as he headed back for her seat.
''Is she a pain or what?'' Miori asked with a frown.
''I'd have to agree there.'' Rie said softly. ''She's also teaching the second years. That means Natsumi-sempai has her for a teacher, too.''
''She'd better not do anything to piss Natsumi off.'' Miori said as she sighed. ''You know how she gets.''
''Eh.'' She looked up. ''You think our brothers got her, too?''
''Without a doubt.'' Miori said with a nod. Her magenta colored eyes glancing at Kasahara as she yawned.
Kasahara-sensei smirked as she glanced at the two girls. She leaned back and let out a soft laugh - Rie noticed the way she looked at them and blinked.
''Miori - did you just? -''
''Eh?'' Miori asked looking up. ''What's up?''
''N-Nothing. I must be imagining things.'' Rie paused and shook her head.
Everyone's prayers were answered as the school bell rung. Everyone wasted no time in getting up and rushing to the door, Kasahara didn't look at them as they left, but from the corner of her eye - kept a close look at the girls. Rie noticed again, but shook her head as she tried to tell herself she was being paranoid.
''I have to meet up with my brother.'' Miori said with a heavy tone in her voice. ''What about you?''
''I better meet up with nichan, too. With all the things we have to do for tomorrow.'' She said. ''I guess I'll call you. His classroom's over there. ''
''Eh. Both of you be careful, alright?'' Miori started to walk away as she waved at her friend, heading for the outside to where they were supposed to meet. They liked meeting there since it was the back part of the school and not much kids went there alone. Miori and Eiri were known to stay away from crowds (as they got from their parents) so, they had no problems there. She quickened her footsteps and headed off.
***
Saneda started to walk back to the backroom of the university, he smirked as he slung his bag over his shoulder and looked up as he walked on.
''You're giving away too much, Saneda.'' a female voice said as he stopped in his tracks. ''We told you to stay away from the parents until we've gotten the children.''
Saneda waved a hand and sighed. ''There are a hundred ways to kill a chicken. The important thing is, it's dead. '' he smirked and glanced behind him. ''It won't matter anymore - since they'll be dead by tomorrow.''
''Hm. You'd better be sure of that or it's you who's going to end up dead.'' Clicking of heels were heard, walking off from him. ''Tomorrow, we'll have the children. And then you kill the parents, you'll have help with you. In case you can't do it.''
''I've never failed you before.'' Saneda said as she continued walking off. ''Besides, the secret to this mission is knowing which buttons to push.''
And there was nothing more between them.
***
Miori looked up as his brother finally came towards her.
''Finally.'' She said with a frown. ''What took you so long?''
''I had a few things to do.'' Eiri answered plainly. ''Come on, let's just go.''
They started to walk off and there wasn't much of a conversation between them. Eiri wasn't the kind to talk about what his day was like, and Miori always gave him room to be that way. There wasn't much noise besides the laughing, screaming, giggling from a far which was the main school grounds.
Eiri stepped on a twig as he stopped and looked up. Miori paused and glanced at her brother.
''Nichan, what's up?''
Eiri didn't say anything. He kept looking around - and then after a few moments, there were running footsteps towards them. His eyes widened and he leapt over and pushed his sister out of the way.
''Doiterou!''
Miori gasped as she landed on the ground with her brother on top of her, shielding her. Arrows suddenly landed on the ground where they were standing a while ago.
''What was that?!' Miori asked as she looked around. ''Nichan!''
Eiri winced as he was grazed on the shoulder. He looked up as he heard laughter, both of them looked behind and saw a man dressed in casual clothes as well. But there was a BIG difference - he wasn't normal at all. His nails were claws instead of normal nails. His ears were pointed and his fangs were exposed as he grinned at them.
''I finally found the two of you.'' he said as he approached them. Miori frowned at him and pulled her brother to her side.
''Who the hell are you! Get away from us!'' She embraced her brother who only glared at the coming man.
''I've been sent to kill Genjo Sanzo's children.'' He grinned. ''I'm a youkai, you should know.''
''Youkai?'' Eiri trailed off as he glared at him. ''What the hell kind of a joke is this?'' he gripped on his sister's arm. ''Who the hell are you?''
''Don't play stupid with me! You know what I'm talking about!'' the youkai roared.
''I don't know what the hell you're here for, but get the hell out of our way and don't you dare show yourself again.'' Miori knew his brother was serious. She looked at him, the annoyed and threatening look on his face.
''Then in that case, you've got no choice but to fight me until one of us dies.'' the youkai took out two blades and started to attack.
Eiri scowled and smirked slightly as he looked at the coming youkai. 'So, that's your answer.''
Miori looked around, still in surprise but she knew that she had to recover. She saw old bamboo swords that were thrown out from the kendo class room. She wasted no time and started to run for them, picking them up - taking one for herself and calling to her brother.
''Nichan! Catch!''
Eiri looked up and caught the bamboo stick thrown at him - he stopped the coming blades and was able to push the youkai back.
''You're not going to get near me or my sister.'' Eiri snapped at him. ''I'd kill you first.''
***
Satoshi dropped his books and looked up, his eyes wide in surprise. Rie stopped and looked at his brother.
''Oni-hue? Oni-hue? What's wrong?''
Satoshi paused and didn't say anything for a moment. Before he spoke softly as he looked around. ''Just now, I thought I heard someone laughing.''
''Maybe it's one of the neighborhood people.'' Rie said with the tone of doubt in her voice. She looked around and saw that no one was there with them.
Satoshi smiled slightly and sighed. ''Maybe I've been watching too much TV or something - these really bad slasher films are starting to get to me.'' he laughed, which made his sister smile and sweatflood.
Rie laughed softly and they kept walking. When suddenly, Satoshi gasped, his eyes widening as he pulled his sister by the wrist.
''Rie! Move away!''
A dagger suddenly plunged through the ground she was standing on a moment before. They both looked up as there was a loud yell, they looked up to see a stranger with pointed ears, sharp claws and fangs jumping down from the tree, holding up what seemed to be a broadsword.
Satoshi pulled his sister towards him, embracing her and moving back with her as the stranger lunged at them with the sword aimed.
''What's going on?!'' Rie cried as they kept moving back. The stranger wasn't stopping at all, Satoshi frowned slightly and managed to kick him back. The stranger cried out as he landed pretty hard on the ground.
''Rie, are you alright?'' Satoshi asked. ''You're not hurt are you?''
Rie kept his eye on the recovering attacker. ''Who is this guy?''
Satoshi looked up and stepped in front of her sister, looking at the man with a stern look on his face. ''Who are you?'' he asked. His voice was cold.
The man let out a laugh, his claws glimmered as he held them up. ''I'm here to kill Cho Hakkai's children.''
''Kill - us?'' Rie trailed off frowning. ''What is this? - '' she asked. The man stepped up, holding his broadsword.
''Rie. I want you to run the opposite direction. Get straight home.'' Satoshi said softly.
''Oni-hue! I'm not leaving you here!''
''Rie! -''
The man attacked again. Satoshi looked up and blocked the sword with both his hands, wincing as they were wounded and bled. He looked at him.
''What are you?'' Satoshi asked, struggling to push the sword back.
''Don't play stupid with me, Cho Satoshi.'' the man grinned. ''I'm a youkai - you're perfectly aware of that.''
''Youkai?!'' his eyes widened as he was pushed back. He winced as he landed on the ground, Rie gasped and ran to him.
''Oni-hue!'' she called worriedly. She looked as the youkai jumped up, holding up his broadsword.
''Die!'' he yelled as he laughed maniacally.
Rie screamed as she embraced her brother - there was suddenly a strange sort of electrical sensation passed through her. Her eyes widened as she looked up - she saw her hands. Green sparks forming around them.
''What? -''
She trailed off as the youkai inched closer and she screamed again as a painful sensation shot up her back.
***
Natsumi looked up as Aki was looking around suspiciously. She paused and looked at him.
''Aniki, what's wrong?'' she asked, now she looked around, too. ''You're looking around like a slasher's about to pop out any minute now.''
''Only because you're absolutely right.'' Aki said with a smirk, he suddenly whirled behind him. Natsumi gasped as blocked a coming blur with his books. Of course, his books were cut in half and they went flying off into separate directions. Aki smirked and pushed the force back with incredible strength. There was a loud thud on the floor.
''Yo, kuso otoko.'' he said in a smooth and arrogant voice. ''Just what the hell is with the violent introduction?''
A man stood up. But there was something different about him, his ears were pointed and his nails were claws instead of normal names - Natsumi paused and blinked.
''Holy crap! Is that a youkai?!'' she almost yelled in surprise.
Aki looked at her with a perplexed look on his face. ''You know about these guys?''
''Doesn't anyone ever read anymore?'' Natsumi asked as she frowned and rolled her eyes.
The youkai looked insulted. ''You have time to talk while I'm here?!'' he exposed his sharp claws. ''Act afraid or something!''
''What the hell is a youkai doing here?!'' Aki asked still in amazement.
''Whatever the hell he's doing here, he's not about to invite us to a tea party that's for sure.'' Natsumi answered as he held up the claws.
''I was sent to kill Sha Gojyo's children!'' the youkai said with a grin. ''And that's exactly what I'm going to do.''
Natsumi and Aki both looked up smirking.
''Frankly, I don't care what you're doing here or what the hell you really are - I don't know either. But you're sure as hell not going to do that!'' Aki said arrogantly as he smirked.
****
Eiri avoided the blades as he glared at the youkai intently. He was quick, he admitted that - Miori tried to strike a few times, but the youkai kept jumping away from where he stood. Miori was now frustrated and annoyed - as she clutched the sword again and tried to attack. The youkai grinned as he whirled right behind him and chopped off the bamboo sword she held. Miori cried out shortly in surprise as she fell to the ground.
''Miori!'' Eiri called, his eyes widening as he started to run towards the youkai who hovered above his sister and held up the blades.
Miori frowned and raised up a foot, kicking the youkai right between the legs. The youkai yelped as he fell back on the ground and dropped his blades. Eiri took the opportunity as he kicked the youkai on the face and picked up the two blades, aiming it at his neck.
''Five seconds. Who are you and what the hell are you really here for?''
''Hm. If you think it's that easy to squeeze an answer out of us.''
The blades were pressed even harder on his neck - the youkai screamed in fear and pain as Eiri glared at him impatiently.
''Three seconds. Or I'll rip your throat apart. Who sent you and what the hell are you here for?''
Miori dusted herself off and stood behind her brother.
''Ii ka! - We were -''
A gun suddenly resounded through the road and the youkai screamed again. He started to disappear, Eiri and Miori watching in shock as there was silence around them once more.
''Who was that?!'' Miori asked looking around.
Eiri noticed a car, which suddenly ran past them. He scowled as he watched it drive away further and further. His brows met slightly and his sister noticed this, too. Both of them watching as it disappeared from their sight. Miori had to look at the two blades on the ground and touch them as to make sure she wasn't dreaming or losing her mind.
''They're real. A youkai was actually here.'' she trailed off, breathlessly as she glanced at her brother.
Eiri looked up and took his sister's hand. ''Let's go before any of them show up.''
''We're not going to tell mom and dad, are we?'' she asked in an unsure tone.
''No. They don't have to know. They'll never believe it anyway.''
''I guess you're right.''
Eiri looked around cautiously as he lead his little sister home.
***
Rie's eyes snapped open as she looked up. She heard a shriek and what sounded like a quick explosion - she looked around her and saw that she was covered in blood. She backed away, but kept her arms around her brother. Who was looking around, surprised as he was seeing the same thing she was. There was blood staining him as well - he looked at his sister and embraced her as she seemed her best to stay calm - but she was shaking.
''Rie, you're not hurt are you?'' Satoshi asked worriedly.
Rie only shook her head. Somehow she was too shocked to say anything and was still busy trying to register what had just happened. She looked at her brother - she wasn't crying or anything. But it looked like she needed a while before she could say anything. She only nodded and held onto her brother.
''Are you alright?'' she managed to say in a calm voice.
Satoshi sighed in relief. God knows what his mother would say and think if she went home bloodied and shaking. ''Yokatta desu ne.'' he said as he got up. It didn't change the fact that a stab of guilt shot up his back that he wasn't the one who protected his sister when it was HIS job to do so. He always wanted Rie to be safe from anything - it turned out that she saved them.
''What was that I just felt?'' Rie said looking at her hands. ''What just happened to me?''
''That - youkai died because of you - right?'' Satoshi said directly. Rie paused and looked up as she shook her head. This was getting weirder.
''Come on, let's go home before anyone sees us.'' Her brother's words snapped her back to reality as he took her hand. ''When we get home we have to change and clean up in a hurry - we can't let mom see this, she'll freak out on us.''
Rie nodded, they headed home and she looked back at her hands.
That came from me. She thought.
Why? I felt scared and then this jolt of pain went through my back. and all of the sudden - it was warm - I felt as if nothing could get near Oni-hue and I.
She paused and looked ahead.
Next thing I knew, the youkai was dead.
How did I do that?
***
Aki looked up as he pulled out the long tree branch, which he had used to stab the youkai with great ease. It was taking too long to beat him and he did say the only way to stop him was to kill him. So, they did as he was told. He and Natsumi were having a hell of a time beating the guy to a pulp. Natsumi was pretty much disturbed of what the youkai told them before her brother shut-him up permanently with the bamboo branch.
It's not over yet. We'll be after you. Every single one of you. Make sure to ask your parents about it.
''Oi, Natsumi.''
''Eh?'' she looked up and Aki had just disposed of the murder weapon. She shook her head and looked around. ''Are you sure he was the last one?''
''Aa.'' Aki answered. ''I guess. What the hell is a youkai doing here? And why do they seem to be particularly fond of us?'' he asked.
''How should I know?'' she paused. ''Why did he say to ask our parents about it?''
''Whoa.'' Aki paused and laughed as he shook his head. ''No, you don't suggest that they have something to do with this.. do you?'' he trailed off.
''Why the hell else would he say that?'' Natsumi asked, frowning slightly. She sighed and shook her head. ''I don't think we should tell them, though. Tousan's never going to believe us anyway. ''
''You're reading my mind.'' Aki said. ''Come on let's go.''
As they walked on, Aki paused and looked up. ''Though, I wonder.''
''Eh?''
''I wonder if this'll be the last one.''
''I doubt that. somehow. I hope I'm wrong.'' Natsumi answered.
***
Sanzo turned off the engine of the car and Mika was removing her seatbelt. She looked at him as he paused and scowled. She took time to study him before she asked.
''What's wrong now?'' she asked. It wasn't long before she heard a voice outside the car.
''Oi! Sanzo!'' she looked up to see a young boy who looked around he was eighteen. Light brown hair and beautiful golden eyes which no one could have probably regarded as ordinary. He standing in the front porch and waving at them as he smiled.
''Anou baka saru.'' Sanzo trailed off as he opened the door to his car. ''You remember him don't you?'' he asked, not getting out yet, looking at his wife.
''Goku?'' she asked. Suddenly smiling and laughing softly. ''So, it is Goku. I haven't seen him since he was fifteen!''
''It's been a while, alright. And he's still as loud as ever.'' Sanzo said in an annoyed tone.
''I'm sure he'll note how friendlier you've become through the years, too.'' She said in a gentle and sarcastic tone.
Sanzo glanced at her again as she smirked slightly. He shook his head and looked up as Goku was calling again.
''Oi! Sanzo! Out here!'' he smiled and waved. ''Mika! I'm out here!''
They stepped out of the car and Goku immediately came running to the two of them. He smiled and hugged Mika tightly and happily as he did, smiling cheerfully as he did a few years back when she last saw him.
''Mika-chan! I'm so glad to see you!''
Mika laughed and pinched his cheek as she patted him gently. ''Let me guess, you're hungry.'' She smiled gently at him as she had always loved the young boy. Sanzo was still neutral and looking at him - Goku looked up and smiled.
''It's about time you guys got home, too!'' he said, frowning slightly. ''I was getting so hungry! I've been waiting here all afternoon!'' he tugged at Mika's hand. ''Ne, ne? Do you guys have anything to eat? --''
Mika was about to say something when a harisen came crashing down Goku's head. He yelped and slumped down the ground.
''Urusai! You just got here and you're making too much noise already!'' he said, irritated.
Mika sighed and shook her head, she helped Goku up. ''Come on, Come on. I'll feed you something before you both blow a fuse.'' She put a hand on her hip. ''This way, then. Sanzo's virtue isn't exactly patience.''
''Oi, Mika. '' he was cut off as Goku kept naming the things he wanted to eat. The blonde only sighed and scowled as he followed the two of them inside.
***
''Did you get rid of him?''
A car window pulled down, Saneda smirked and peered out, waving the smith and wesson forty-five at the woman with long black hair and dark blue eyes. He chuckled and nodded.
''Done like you asked, Ming-chan.'' He answered. ''Killed him like a dog before he could say anything.''
''Good. Or I would have had to kill you.'' Ming said ''Remember Gyoukumen Koushu-sama's order. Kill the Sanzo-ikkou and their families.''
''Ryoukaishita, fearless leader!'' Saneda said mockingly as he saluted, supposedly. ''The Sanzo-ikkou and their respective families will be dead by tomorrow night.''
''Now get lost before I kill you anyway.'' She snapped coldly as she began to walk off.
''Ming-chan's getting scary.'' he said pulling the window to a close. ''Better get to work then.''
~TSUZUKU~
Translations:
deshoo -- way of asking a question besides 'desu ka' Nan desu -- 'What' Hanashite -- Well, it could either mean 'let's talk' or 'let go of me' in this case, it's the second one. Doiterou -- 'get down!' Oni-hue, Nichan, Aniki -- all translate to 'big brother' 'kuso otoko' -- it's just one of the many ways to say something rude about someone. Doesn't have a literal translation and if there was. It isn't pretty. Ii ka, Ii kara -- okay 'Yokatta desu ne' -- I'm glad Ryoukaishita -- Roger