Chapter 24 - The Devil's Ensnare
Tsukasa awoke to the bright sunlight shining through his room. "Where the hell am I?" he muttered, struggling to sit up when he remembered what had happened. "Makino!" he called and looked around the room. Panic overcame him when he realised where he was - his parents' home in New York. Pulling the covers away forcefully, Tsukasa ran to the door and opened to see his mother, Doumyoji Kaede with her bodyguards and an entourage of maids, standing in front of it.
"Morning, my son," greeted Kaede cordially, "It's time you get dressed." Tsukasa growled and glared at his mother. "Where's Makino?" he demanded, fists clenched, "What have you done with her?! You, old hag!" Kaede shook her head. "Is that the way to speak to an elder?" she commented with such calmness that Tsukasa was taken aback. His mother was not someone who would not bite when she's stung. Such calmness send shivers down his spine and all the more he knew he had to leave and find Tsukushi.
"She's fine," said Kaede, stepping into the room, "If you want to see her, you've to do as I say." Tsukasa's gaze followed his mother as she walked to the window. "I want to see her," he demanded again, "I want to know that she's safe." Kaede turned to face her son. She had expected him to pounce on her but he stood at the same spot. Her son has changed. He was no longer the violent and unreasonable chap she knew, for if he had been, he would have, at the slightest chance, fought his way to Tsukushi's side.
"You will see her in a week," she said, "That is, if you do as I say." Before Tsukasa could protest further, Kaede signalled to the guards and the maids waiting outside, "Make sure he has his breakfast and he's dressed appropriately for work." Turning to Tsukasa, she calmly looked him in the eye and informed him that she'll wait for him in the car. "By the way," she added, walking past him and out the door, "I'll guarantee her safety during this period. Just do as I say and you'll see her."
Tsukasa did not trust himself to trust his mother. He knew his mother well. She would do anything if he goes headlong with her. As frustrated as he feels, he had to obey her. As much as he wanted to know how Tsukushi is or where she was, he had to wait that week. He does not know what's going to happen in a week but he has to bide his time if he's to think of an escape plan. "Why a week?" he asked as casually as possible. Kaede made no reply nor looked at her son.
************
Tsukushi stirred when the maids in her chamber drew the curtains opened. "Good morning," greeted the duo in the room. "Good...good morning," stammered Tsukushi. "We've brought your breakfast," informed the maid politely, "And the bath's ready." Tsukushi nodded. She was too surprised to protest or questioned where Tsukasa was. "Please have your breakfast quickly," requested the other maid, "And then, after your bath, please change into this dress."
Tsukushi looked at the pale yellow boat-neck box-pleated dress. It was simple and yet, it spoke of elegance. "I'll wear this," she replied, pointing to her attire of yesterday. The maids simultaneously shook their heads and exclaimed, "Oh, no!" Tsukushi blinked, surprised at their outcry. "Madam Kaede wants us to have you dressed in this," informed the plumper maid, "She would be displeased with us, if you did not wear this." The other nodded furiously.
"But...but..." she began when the door to her room opened. Tsukushi grasped as Kaede stepped into the room. "Good that you're awake," she said in her cold voice, "You've got things to do." Tsukushi was not to be intimidated by this cold and lanky lady in front of her. Summoning all her courage, she asked in an almost demanding way, "Where's Doumyoji?" Kaede looked her in the eye. "You have the nerve to question me," replied Kaede. Not allowing herself to be unnerved, Tsukushi asked again, "Where's Doumyoji?"
Kaede was amazed at this girl's courage. She knew that Tsukushi was not a pushover but yet, this girl's the reason for the change in her son. "He's fine," she replied coldly, "You'll see him when the time comes." Tsukushi stared at her and wondered how any mother could be as cruel as the one standing in front of her. "How am I to know he's fine when your bodyguards used the electrifier on him?!" cried out Tsukushi.
Kaede made no reply, head towards the window and looked out. "You can see him from here," she said and turning to the maids, "Make sure she's ready by the time Mrs Takagi and her guests arrive." The maids nodded. Tsukushi watched in silence as Kaede walked out of the room. When the doors were closed, Tsukushi made a dash for the window and looked out of it. Below, to her far left, was a parked limousine guarded by two of Kaede's henchmen.
It was not long before Kaede emerged and entered the waiting limousine. Tsukushi waited patiently. The emergence of a curly-haired lad caught her full attention. It was Tsukasa, dressed in a business suit. His good looks illuminated by the winter sun. She watched as he slid in after his mother. "Where is he going?" questioned Tsukushi quietly. "Excuse me, Miss Makino," interrupted the maid, "You have to get ready now." Tsukushi reluctantly allowed herself to be dragged away from the window.
"Doumyoji!" she yelled suddenly, surprising the maids, "I'm up here." Forcefully pushing away the maids, she ran up to the window. Tsukasa could not hear her, not from that distance, not from a window that's secured from the wintry cold. Tsukasa was already out of the mansion's gates when she called. Tsukushi watched with a fallen heart as the limousine turned round the corner and disappear from her sight. "Why didn't I call out earlier?" she muttered disappointedly, "He could have heard me..."
"Tsukushi," a female voice called softly. In her self-reproachment, she had not noticed the presence of Tsubaki. Tsukushi turned around with sadden eyes. "Tsubaki-oneesan," she mumbled softly, "Good morning." Tsubaki smiled and returned her greeting. "Don't be so sad," she cajoled, "Just trust me on this one, will you?" Tsukushi looked up before nodding hesitantly. "Now, go and have your bath," said Tsubaki, placing her hands onto Tsukushi's shoulders and directing her to the bathroom, "Have your breakfast and then, join me in the hall."
************
Sojiro yawned and stretched. Glancing over his shoulders at the sleeping Yuki, he smiled at the blissful girl next to him. "Good morning," greeted the captain, "Trust that all of you had a good night's rest. We'll be arriving in New York in another two hours. The crew will be serving your breakfast in another half hour. Thank you." Yuki stirred and opened her eyes. "Morning," greeted Sojiro with a smile. "Morn...morning," stammered Yuki, not expecting him to be staring at her in the face. "We'll be in New York soon," he informed, getting up from his seat. Yuki nodded as she removed the blanket and placed it to her side.
"Good morning," chirped Shigeru. She had awoken earlier than the rest and had already washed up when the rest were just waking. "You're up early," commented Sojiro nonchalantly, picking up the toiletries set provided by the airline. Shigeru nodded. "I can't wait to get out of this plane," she said excitedly, "And 'battle' the evil-doer!" The other four stared at her with disbelief. "Right," said Akira sarcastically, "And do you have any plan to deal with the 'evil-doer'?" Shigeru narrowed her eyes at him and then, beamed. "Of course," she exclaimed, snapping her fingers, "How can I not have a plan!?"
A dotted-eyed Akira and Sojiro stared at her, with Yuki and Tomoya looking curious. "I've worked it all out," she continued, "When we land, we'll go over to my parents' apartment and I'll show it to you."
"You've got it all worked out?!" exclaimed Akira and Sojiro together with surprise. "How, given that we boarded the plane almost immediately?" asked Yuki innocently. "That's what you guys don't know about me," commented Shigeru proudly. "Breakfast will be served shortly," announced the chief attendant, interrupting their conversation, "Thank you." Taking the chance, Sojiro made his way to the bathroom. "I shall wash up now," he announced, "I want to have my breakfast." Akira and Yuki followed suit, leaving behind a pouting Shigeru. "Hey! I'm not done yet," she called after them, "How rude can these people get?!"
"Well, I'd better wash up too if I want to have breakfast," said Tomoya, getting up from his seat. "You, too?!" exclaimed Shigeru. Tomoya shrugged and smiled as he retreated to the bathroom area. "Remind me never to tell these people anything," she muttered angrily, promptly plopping onto her seat.
************
"Thank you for flying with us," bowed the attendants as the party of five exited the plane. "I've to go and collect my luggage," said Shigeru, "Will make a move first." Tomoya caught hold of her before she does one of her disappearing acts. "Not so fast," he said, "I'll go with you." Shigeru nodded. "See you at the exit then," said Tomoya to the other three. "Ya, see you there," echoed Shigeru as she dragged Tomoya to the customs.
"I can't believe we have to work with her in our rescue plan," remarked Akira, shaking his head. "I have a foreboding about this just as much as you have," added Sojiro and then, turning to Yuki, "Come on, we have to settle down first before we can get anything done." Yuki nodded and followed the F2. She had never been to New York and this is a whole new experience - everything she sees is an amazement and delight. However, at the back of her mind lurked the nagging worry for her best friend, Tsukushi.
"Tsukushi, don't worry," she thought as her passport was cleared by immigration, "We're here to make things better..." Sojiro noticed her silence. "Don't worry," he assured again, "We'll get them out of the 'dungeon'. We have a full proof plan. Isn't it, Akira?" Akira was not paying attention to the conversation between the two and when Sojiro nudged him, he was surprised and hastily agreed without knowledge. "Ya," said Akira nonchalantly before walking ahead of them.
Yuki smiled weakly as she watched Akira moved away. "Shall we?" asked Sojiro, extending his hand. Yuki hesitantly placed her hand in his. And when she had done so, Sojiro clammed it tight and led the way. His little gesture filled her with warmth and assurance that they will get her best friend out.
Approaching the exit, they joined the other three and at the same time, noticing a fourth party. "Rui!" exclaimed Sojiro with surprise, "What are you doing here?" Rui smiled. "Same reason that you're here," he replied and turning to Yuki, "Hello. We meet again."
"Yes, we meet again," answered Yuki with a smile. "Well, my car is waiting. Shall we?" asked Rui. "Where are we going now?" asked Yuki for now that she's in New York, her first task is to get in touch with Tsukushi. As if reading her mind, Rui replied, "To Doumyoji's."
"Huh?!" exclaimed the rest in shock. "I figure it's better for us to head straight to the source rather than while the time away by planning without a clue," explained Rui, leading the way to the waiting limousine, "If they're there, it would be a starting point." His face fell as he entered the car before the rest and remained deep in thought. He wanted to make sure his best of friends are safe - it was more important than any rescue plan.
************
The Doumyoji mansion came slowly into view as the limousine moved along the path leading to it. The land space was huge and the mansion, magnificent given its proximity to the city centre. Yuki stared in awe. She had never seen such a huge dwelling. The ones in Japan cannot be compared to the one in front of her. She grasped aloud unintentionally and went red with embarrassment when the rest turned and stared at her.
"It's beautiful, isn't it?" commented Sojiro, easing her embarrassment. Yuki nodded sheepishly while the rest smiled. The limousine pulled into the driveway of the mansion and the door on both sides opened. The party stepped out one after the other onto the stairway of the entrance. "Well, here goes nothing," said Akira as they climb the stairs. The butler was already at the door as he always would for no one comes through the gates of the mansion without him or the security knowing.
He welcomed them. "Good afternoon," he greeted, stepping aside to allow the party to enter. "We are here to see Tsukasa," said Sojiro in an instructing tone. "I'm sorry," apologised the butler, "He's not around at the moment." Sojiro turned to Rui. "So, he's here in New York at this mansion then," concluded Rui, "What about the girl with him?" The butler made no reply but smiled. "Please wait here," he said, "Let me inform Ms Doumyoji that you are here."
"Onee-san is here?!" commented Akira in surprise while the rest were flabbergasted. "That makes our job even easier!" chirped Shigeru, the first one to snap out of their shock. And when Tsubaki came down the stairs, Shigeru was the first to run up to her. "Onee-san," she said excitedly, "You're also here because of them, right?" Tsubaki smiled at her before turning to the rest. "Hello," she said calmly, "Thanks for coming all the way here to make sure that Tsukasa and Tsukushi are fine."
The F3 had never felt so uncomfortable with Tsubaki. "Onee-san," said Sojiro, "What's happening? Where's Tsukasa and Makino?" Tsubaki looked from one to the other and sighed, "I knew that all of you would be here but I'm sorry, you have to leave here for now." Rui was adamant not to leave till he knows the whereabouts of the duo. "We won't till you tell us where they are," said Rui firmly. "I can assure you that they are fine," said Tsubaki, "I'm sure you've gotten the invitation. I'll see you then."
Signalling to the butler, Tsubaki said, "Do send them out." Shigeru was agitated by the turn of events. "Why aren't you telling us what you know?!" she yelled, holding on firmly to Tsubaki, "We came all the way here and I believe we have the right to know what's going on with our friends!" Before she could throw one of her fits, Tomoya had gotten hold of her. "I'm sorry," he apologised to Tsubaki, "We'll go now."
"Wh...what?!" snapped Shigeru. Tomoya tighten his grip on her. "Let's just go first," he hissed in her ears, "We can't do anything if she's not going to spill the beans." Taking the initiative from him, the other four retreated out the entrance. Tsubaki watched them depart from where she stood. "They are fine," she muttered, "Trust me..."
************
"I don't like the way Onee-san sends us away," said Akira gloomily, plopping onto the couch of Rui's apartment. "Me too," agreed Shigeru, glaring at Tomoya for his earlier interference. The party had arrived at Rui's apartment after being escorted out of the mansion and were settling in to ponder on what had happened.
"I think she has her reasons," said Rui thoughtfully, throwing his house keys onto the kitchen table. "I disagree!" exclaimed Shigeru, "I think she's been bought into the devil's ensnare!" Tomoya shook his head, watching with amusement as his fiancée gestured her frustrations. "I tend to agree with Rui," commented Sojiro, placing his hand under his chin, "Onee-san probably has some valid reasons for doing what she did."
"What's the matter with both of you?" asked Akira annoyingly, "Did you not see the way we were treated?!" Yuki sat silently at the corner. She was not listening to the conversation. "Tsukushi, if you can hear me," she prayed quietly, "Please be safe..."
Rui noticed Yuki's silence and nudged Sojiro. Promptly picking up the message, Sojiro approached her and placed his hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry," he said, "We'll get them out of there." Yuki smiled wanly and nodded. "All right," said Rui, "We're not able to get close to them from now till Christmas Eve - the day of the invitation, we'll have to use that day for the mission. All agree?" They nodded. "Then let's plan," said Rui, pulling out a rolled paper from the cupboard, "I've got the blue print of the Doumyoji mansion here. It'll be handy."
"How...How did you get it?" cried out the F2 in unison as they rushed up to his side. "Just a few phone calls," replied Rui with a smile.
Tsukasa awoke to the bright sunlight shining through his room. "Where the hell am I?" he muttered, struggling to sit up when he remembered what had happened. "Makino!" he called and looked around the room. Panic overcame him when he realised where he was - his parents' home in New York. Pulling the covers away forcefully, Tsukasa ran to the door and opened to see his mother, Doumyoji Kaede with her bodyguards and an entourage of maids, standing in front of it.
"Morning, my son," greeted Kaede cordially, "It's time you get dressed." Tsukasa growled and glared at his mother. "Where's Makino?" he demanded, fists clenched, "What have you done with her?! You, old hag!" Kaede shook her head. "Is that the way to speak to an elder?" she commented with such calmness that Tsukasa was taken aback. His mother was not someone who would not bite when she's stung. Such calmness send shivers down his spine and all the more he knew he had to leave and find Tsukushi.
"She's fine," said Kaede, stepping into the room, "If you want to see her, you've to do as I say." Tsukasa's gaze followed his mother as she walked to the window. "I want to see her," he demanded again, "I want to know that she's safe." Kaede turned to face her son. She had expected him to pounce on her but he stood at the same spot. Her son has changed. He was no longer the violent and unreasonable chap she knew, for if he had been, he would have, at the slightest chance, fought his way to Tsukushi's side.
"You will see her in a week," she said, "That is, if you do as I say." Before Tsukasa could protest further, Kaede signalled to the guards and the maids waiting outside, "Make sure he has his breakfast and he's dressed appropriately for work." Turning to Tsukasa, she calmly looked him in the eye and informed him that she'll wait for him in the car. "By the way," she added, walking past him and out the door, "I'll guarantee her safety during this period. Just do as I say and you'll see her."
Tsukasa did not trust himself to trust his mother. He knew his mother well. She would do anything if he goes headlong with her. As frustrated as he feels, he had to obey her. As much as he wanted to know how Tsukushi is or where she was, he had to wait that week. He does not know what's going to happen in a week but he has to bide his time if he's to think of an escape plan. "Why a week?" he asked as casually as possible. Kaede made no reply nor looked at her son.
************
Tsukushi stirred when the maids in her chamber drew the curtains opened. "Good morning," greeted the duo in the room. "Good...good morning," stammered Tsukushi. "We've brought your breakfast," informed the maid politely, "And the bath's ready." Tsukushi nodded. She was too surprised to protest or questioned where Tsukasa was. "Please have your breakfast quickly," requested the other maid, "And then, after your bath, please change into this dress."
Tsukushi looked at the pale yellow boat-neck box-pleated dress. It was simple and yet, it spoke of elegance. "I'll wear this," she replied, pointing to her attire of yesterday. The maids simultaneously shook their heads and exclaimed, "Oh, no!" Tsukushi blinked, surprised at their outcry. "Madam Kaede wants us to have you dressed in this," informed the plumper maid, "She would be displeased with us, if you did not wear this." The other nodded furiously.
"But...but..." she began when the door to her room opened. Tsukushi grasped as Kaede stepped into the room. "Good that you're awake," she said in her cold voice, "You've got things to do." Tsukushi was not to be intimidated by this cold and lanky lady in front of her. Summoning all her courage, she asked in an almost demanding way, "Where's Doumyoji?" Kaede looked her in the eye. "You have the nerve to question me," replied Kaede. Not allowing herself to be unnerved, Tsukushi asked again, "Where's Doumyoji?"
Kaede was amazed at this girl's courage. She knew that Tsukushi was not a pushover but yet, this girl's the reason for the change in her son. "He's fine," she replied coldly, "You'll see him when the time comes." Tsukushi stared at her and wondered how any mother could be as cruel as the one standing in front of her. "How am I to know he's fine when your bodyguards used the electrifier on him?!" cried out Tsukushi.
Kaede made no reply, head towards the window and looked out. "You can see him from here," she said and turning to the maids, "Make sure she's ready by the time Mrs Takagi and her guests arrive." The maids nodded. Tsukushi watched in silence as Kaede walked out of the room. When the doors were closed, Tsukushi made a dash for the window and looked out of it. Below, to her far left, was a parked limousine guarded by two of Kaede's henchmen.
It was not long before Kaede emerged and entered the waiting limousine. Tsukushi waited patiently. The emergence of a curly-haired lad caught her full attention. It was Tsukasa, dressed in a business suit. His good looks illuminated by the winter sun. She watched as he slid in after his mother. "Where is he going?" questioned Tsukushi quietly. "Excuse me, Miss Makino," interrupted the maid, "You have to get ready now." Tsukushi reluctantly allowed herself to be dragged away from the window.
"Doumyoji!" she yelled suddenly, surprising the maids, "I'm up here." Forcefully pushing away the maids, she ran up to the window. Tsukasa could not hear her, not from that distance, not from a window that's secured from the wintry cold. Tsukasa was already out of the mansion's gates when she called. Tsukushi watched with a fallen heart as the limousine turned round the corner and disappear from her sight. "Why didn't I call out earlier?" she muttered disappointedly, "He could have heard me..."
"Tsukushi," a female voice called softly. In her self-reproachment, she had not noticed the presence of Tsubaki. Tsukushi turned around with sadden eyes. "Tsubaki-oneesan," she mumbled softly, "Good morning." Tsubaki smiled and returned her greeting. "Don't be so sad," she cajoled, "Just trust me on this one, will you?" Tsukushi looked up before nodding hesitantly. "Now, go and have your bath," said Tsubaki, placing her hands onto Tsukushi's shoulders and directing her to the bathroom, "Have your breakfast and then, join me in the hall."
************
Sojiro yawned and stretched. Glancing over his shoulders at the sleeping Yuki, he smiled at the blissful girl next to him. "Good morning," greeted the captain, "Trust that all of you had a good night's rest. We'll be arriving in New York in another two hours. The crew will be serving your breakfast in another half hour. Thank you." Yuki stirred and opened her eyes. "Morning," greeted Sojiro with a smile. "Morn...morning," stammered Yuki, not expecting him to be staring at her in the face. "We'll be in New York soon," he informed, getting up from his seat. Yuki nodded as she removed the blanket and placed it to her side.
"Good morning," chirped Shigeru. She had awoken earlier than the rest and had already washed up when the rest were just waking. "You're up early," commented Sojiro nonchalantly, picking up the toiletries set provided by the airline. Shigeru nodded. "I can't wait to get out of this plane," she said excitedly, "And 'battle' the evil-doer!" The other four stared at her with disbelief. "Right," said Akira sarcastically, "And do you have any plan to deal with the 'evil-doer'?" Shigeru narrowed her eyes at him and then, beamed. "Of course," she exclaimed, snapping her fingers, "How can I not have a plan!?"
A dotted-eyed Akira and Sojiro stared at her, with Yuki and Tomoya looking curious. "I've worked it all out," she continued, "When we land, we'll go over to my parents' apartment and I'll show it to you."
"You've got it all worked out?!" exclaimed Akira and Sojiro together with surprise. "How, given that we boarded the plane almost immediately?" asked Yuki innocently. "That's what you guys don't know about me," commented Shigeru proudly. "Breakfast will be served shortly," announced the chief attendant, interrupting their conversation, "Thank you." Taking the chance, Sojiro made his way to the bathroom. "I shall wash up now," he announced, "I want to have my breakfast." Akira and Yuki followed suit, leaving behind a pouting Shigeru. "Hey! I'm not done yet," she called after them, "How rude can these people get?!"
"Well, I'd better wash up too if I want to have breakfast," said Tomoya, getting up from his seat. "You, too?!" exclaimed Shigeru. Tomoya shrugged and smiled as he retreated to the bathroom area. "Remind me never to tell these people anything," she muttered angrily, promptly plopping onto her seat.
************
"Thank you for flying with us," bowed the attendants as the party of five exited the plane. "I've to go and collect my luggage," said Shigeru, "Will make a move first." Tomoya caught hold of her before she does one of her disappearing acts. "Not so fast," he said, "I'll go with you." Shigeru nodded. "See you at the exit then," said Tomoya to the other three. "Ya, see you there," echoed Shigeru as she dragged Tomoya to the customs.
"I can't believe we have to work with her in our rescue plan," remarked Akira, shaking his head. "I have a foreboding about this just as much as you have," added Sojiro and then, turning to Yuki, "Come on, we have to settle down first before we can get anything done." Yuki nodded and followed the F2. She had never been to New York and this is a whole new experience - everything she sees is an amazement and delight. However, at the back of her mind lurked the nagging worry for her best friend, Tsukushi.
"Tsukushi, don't worry," she thought as her passport was cleared by immigration, "We're here to make things better..." Sojiro noticed her silence. "Don't worry," he assured again, "We'll get them out of the 'dungeon'. We have a full proof plan. Isn't it, Akira?" Akira was not paying attention to the conversation between the two and when Sojiro nudged him, he was surprised and hastily agreed without knowledge. "Ya," said Akira nonchalantly before walking ahead of them.
Yuki smiled weakly as she watched Akira moved away. "Shall we?" asked Sojiro, extending his hand. Yuki hesitantly placed her hand in his. And when she had done so, Sojiro clammed it tight and led the way. His little gesture filled her with warmth and assurance that they will get her best friend out.
Approaching the exit, they joined the other three and at the same time, noticing a fourth party. "Rui!" exclaimed Sojiro with surprise, "What are you doing here?" Rui smiled. "Same reason that you're here," he replied and turning to Yuki, "Hello. We meet again."
"Yes, we meet again," answered Yuki with a smile. "Well, my car is waiting. Shall we?" asked Rui. "Where are we going now?" asked Yuki for now that she's in New York, her first task is to get in touch with Tsukushi. As if reading her mind, Rui replied, "To Doumyoji's."
"Huh?!" exclaimed the rest in shock. "I figure it's better for us to head straight to the source rather than while the time away by planning without a clue," explained Rui, leading the way to the waiting limousine, "If they're there, it would be a starting point." His face fell as he entered the car before the rest and remained deep in thought. He wanted to make sure his best of friends are safe - it was more important than any rescue plan.
************
The Doumyoji mansion came slowly into view as the limousine moved along the path leading to it. The land space was huge and the mansion, magnificent given its proximity to the city centre. Yuki stared in awe. She had never seen such a huge dwelling. The ones in Japan cannot be compared to the one in front of her. She grasped aloud unintentionally and went red with embarrassment when the rest turned and stared at her.
"It's beautiful, isn't it?" commented Sojiro, easing her embarrassment. Yuki nodded sheepishly while the rest smiled. The limousine pulled into the driveway of the mansion and the door on both sides opened. The party stepped out one after the other onto the stairway of the entrance. "Well, here goes nothing," said Akira as they climb the stairs. The butler was already at the door as he always would for no one comes through the gates of the mansion without him or the security knowing.
He welcomed them. "Good afternoon," he greeted, stepping aside to allow the party to enter. "We are here to see Tsukasa," said Sojiro in an instructing tone. "I'm sorry," apologised the butler, "He's not around at the moment." Sojiro turned to Rui. "So, he's here in New York at this mansion then," concluded Rui, "What about the girl with him?" The butler made no reply but smiled. "Please wait here," he said, "Let me inform Ms Doumyoji that you are here."
"Onee-san is here?!" commented Akira in surprise while the rest were flabbergasted. "That makes our job even easier!" chirped Shigeru, the first one to snap out of their shock. And when Tsubaki came down the stairs, Shigeru was the first to run up to her. "Onee-san," she said excitedly, "You're also here because of them, right?" Tsubaki smiled at her before turning to the rest. "Hello," she said calmly, "Thanks for coming all the way here to make sure that Tsukasa and Tsukushi are fine."
The F3 had never felt so uncomfortable with Tsubaki. "Onee-san," said Sojiro, "What's happening? Where's Tsukasa and Makino?" Tsubaki looked from one to the other and sighed, "I knew that all of you would be here but I'm sorry, you have to leave here for now." Rui was adamant not to leave till he knows the whereabouts of the duo. "We won't till you tell us where they are," said Rui firmly. "I can assure you that they are fine," said Tsubaki, "I'm sure you've gotten the invitation. I'll see you then."
Signalling to the butler, Tsubaki said, "Do send them out." Shigeru was agitated by the turn of events. "Why aren't you telling us what you know?!" she yelled, holding on firmly to Tsubaki, "We came all the way here and I believe we have the right to know what's going on with our friends!" Before she could throw one of her fits, Tomoya had gotten hold of her. "I'm sorry," he apologised to Tsubaki, "We'll go now."
"Wh...what?!" snapped Shigeru. Tomoya tighten his grip on her. "Let's just go first," he hissed in her ears, "We can't do anything if she's not going to spill the beans." Taking the initiative from him, the other four retreated out the entrance. Tsubaki watched them depart from where she stood. "They are fine," she muttered, "Trust me..."
************
"I don't like the way Onee-san sends us away," said Akira gloomily, plopping onto the couch of Rui's apartment. "Me too," agreed Shigeru, glaring at Tomoya for his earlier interference. The party had arrived at Rui's apartment after being escorted out of the mansion and were settling in to ponder on what had happened.
"I think she has her reasons," said Rui thoughtfully, throwing his house keys onto the kitchen table. "I disagree!" exclaimed Shigeru, "I think she's been bought into the devil's ensnare!" Tomoya shook his head, watching with amusement as his fiancée gestured her frustrations. "I tend to agree with Rui," commented Sojiro, placing his hand under his chin, "Onee-san probably has some valid reasons for doing what she did."
"What's the matter with both of you?" asked Akira annoyingly, "Did you not see the way we were treated?!" Yuki sat silently at the corner. She was not listening to the conversation. "Tsukushi, if you can hear me," she prayed quietly, "Please be safe..."
Rui noticed Yuki's silence and nudged Sojiro. Promptly picking up the message, Sojiro approached her and placed his hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry," he said, "We'll get them out of there." Yuki smiled wanly and nodded. "All right," said Rui, "We're not able to get close to them from now till Christmas Eve - the day of the invitation, we'll have to use that day for the mission. All agree?" They nodded. "Then let's plan," said Rui, pulling out a rolled paper from the cupboard, "I've got the blue print of the Doumyoji mansion here. It'll be handy."
"How...How did you get it?" cried out the F2 in unison as they rushed up to his side. "Just a few phone calls," replied Rui with a smile.