Pierce the white illusions with you crimson spear. See beyond the silvery deception and find the true enemy.
DISCLAIMER: DxD does not belong to me~.
"We're deeply ashamed for our transgressions and violence against you and your cohorts! Please forgive us and we beg of you, do not tell Cohen-sama about our actions!"
And we're now standing in front of rows and rows of youkai, all of them which no long ago tried to rip the skin off our bones due to some... Regional quarrels, doing a deeply and desperate supplication pose in order to practically beg for their lives. With so much attention, I scratch my chin a bit nervous, not knowing what to do.
The location is now a Shinto temple, or at least a version of a Shinto Temple on Urakyoto, the other side of regular Kyoto. After the small conflict between our group and a small army of Youkai, both Kunou-sama, the true ruler of the Kyoto Youkai Faction, and Mutsumi-sama, a close friend of hers and former ruler of the Kanto faction, intervened before things could take a turn for the worse and enchanted my peerage and their peers into submission. I thought I was going to fight them at some point, but fortunately they simply used some spells to calm our nerves and resolve this battle without further bloodshed. Since their group was the one which started the whole mess, the older fox spirit ordered them to apologize, which they were relutanct to do so before knowing we were devils from the Gremory clan and thus related to Cohen Lucifer, which prompted them to fall on their knees and practically beg for our pardon. So this is the power of Cohen-sama's influence; it's terrifying...
"As the ruler of the Kyoto Youkai faction, I also apologize for the actions of my dear subordinates. How unbecoming, specially considering that the Red Dragon Emperor himself is present." I turn around to the center of the temple where stood the beautiful, golden nine-tailed fox spirit known as Kunou-sama, the current leader of the Kyoto Youkai faction. Her figure is nigh divine, her stance is gracious and gentle, and just by looking at her I feel blessed, like she's some sort of divinity. So this is one of senpai's former belles, the fox spirit Kunou. I hate to admit it considering I already got my own fox wife, but I'm kinda jealous. She politely bows. "Let us try this again: I'm the ruler of these lands and the leader of the Youkai who roams them. Kunou is my name, and I welcome you all to my territory."
"Hm... R-Right. The honour... Is ours." I bow back in a robotic and jumpy way, as if talking becomes the most alien thing to me. Such an alluring charm, it's almost too dangerous. Her hair trinkets ring with each move, and I can't help but to notice that she has also an incredible rack, resting on the cleavage of her shrine maiden outfit like a fresh and plumpy peach. I mentally slap myself so the introductions could continue. "I'm Tsukino Ichijou, and I'm... The red dragon emperor and Hyoudou Issei-senpai's successor. It's an honour to finally meet you, Kunou-sama."
"I'm... Whiswain. Nice to meet you, and I feel honoured as such, Kunou-sama."
"I'm Liu Bei, coutesy name Xuande, but address me as you see fit. It's a great honour to meet you in person, lady Kunou."
"Guan Yu, styled Yunchang. A pleasure, I suppose."
"Hm~, as expected from the Gremory, such remarkable pieces. Specially you, dear Sekiryuutei." The older fox lady comments turning her golden stare at me, and out of instinct, I shift my gaze elsewhere, embarrassed. Not just because she's a beautiful woman, but also because I can feel some lingering feeling between her and the Boosted Gear. Yagura did recognize her, after all. "It seems history repeats itself, and the red dragon is again the dear servant of a devil heiress. Quite romantic, although such a pity. I was hoping to have the red dragon emperor by my side forever..."
"I'm... Honoured...?" I drag the last word a bit for I was unsure what she really meant, either as a joke or seriously. I have this serious trouble in reading people, and regarding her of all things, one of senpai's spouses, puts me in such an edge. I don't know how to deal with it! However, she laughs behind a sleeve, and I sigh in defeat. A lame response. "Kunou-sama must really love senpai, and I know he loved you just as much."
"Truly, since the day he saved my dear mother, Yasaka mother of us all, from the clutches of the Khaos Brigade, I grew enamorated by his strong yet gentle person. I'm so glad that his legacy lives on, despite..." She trails off a bit, her eyes saddening in the process and looking down. I've heard stories about senpai not being just the hero among the devils, but also a Champion to the Kyoto Youkai faction, the Grigori, and even Norse faction. His death was a great loss for everyone, not just his friends and loved ones in the Underworld. She huffs, turns to us and smiles yet again. "... But regardless, I'm glad that I got to meet the Red Dragon Emperor again, in such similar circumstances as well... Although not only you're younger than when Issei-sama was at the time, but the timeline is a bit off as well. I suppose you're not here on a school trip?"
"You can say that... I am on vacation." I sigh, turning elsewhere, Youkais everywhere looking at me funny. That's not the entire truth, but it is regardless, she doesn't need to know about my little journey, and honestly, she got better things to do than deal with the tragedies and romances of a high-schooler.
"I see." She wonders, turning now to the others besides me. "And you brought your own companions as well, how lovely. Ryuubi-dono, Kan'u-dono, it has been a while, but this is the first time we've conversed properly. May I ask how is the great sage equal to heavens is doing? Furthermore, what a surprise for you to become devils, but I shouldn't be."
"He was quite fine last time I contacted him, Lady Kunou." Sensei bows politely. "And quite honestly, ever since becoming a devil under lady Berolina's care, life has been quite amusing, almost overwhelmingly so. I have no regrets in such therefore."
"Whatever winds take Milady, I shall follow suit; this is my honour as the inheritor of Guan." Kan'u promptly responds as well, arms crossed and bowing as she could, aka not much but close enough. Oh, so they know each other, in a way at least. Makes sense, the monkey King and the youkai leaders to know and contact each other, although their relationship sounds friendlier than one can imagine.
"I see. At least Goku-sama can rest at ease knowing that his dear apprentices are being taken care of by the Gremory, thus in good hands." She chuckles, and I am almost blinded by the sheer radiance she emanates. Not just her hair, her entire being glows of golden. "But I apologize that your enjoyment of Kyoto was so rudely cut by my subjects. I understand their good intentions, but not an excuse for such reckless violence."
"N-No need to apologize. I guess the adrenaline got the best of me as well, so I'm sorry on my end as well." I wave a hand frenetically in front of me to dismiss her sorrow. No way, no way, it's not her fault! I mean, that tengu Kyoto guy did push some of my buttons, but I should've been the better man in the situation, Kanto-related honour aside. And it's not like he has a bad motive to be suspicious, although listening to others is an alien thing here in Kyoto, something I know by experience. Wait no, now that I think about it, there are other matters to talk about. "Speaking of which, when I was fighting that crow bastar-... I mean, Misogi... -san, he said something about a dragon and two other companions roaming around Kyoto causing trouble probably aimed at you. If you don't mind me asking, could you tell me more about that?"
"So you heard about it." Kunou-sama blinks as we change the subject, and she exchange glances with some of her subordinates, soon turning to us. "I'm not sure about the further details myself, but I was informed about that a dragon, or at least an individual with a strong dragonic aura has been seen and noticed by the guards within my territory. Their goals or reasons are still mostly unknown, but they've been said to cause quite a ruckus in some random encounters, but mostly just fights. They're accompanied by two other companions wearing chinese gartments. Anything else is a mystery, however. I was informed that they were clad in pearly white armor and had two light wings, so I can only assume..."
"... It's the Hakuryuukou." I complemented her with a shiver down my spine, lowering my head as she nods. So that girl that 'tagged' me wasn't just a normal girl, and the aura I felt wasn't just a hunch, that girl... It was indeed the Hakuryuukou, the white dragon emperor, and worst of all, she's not alone. One problem is dealt with, yet another rises for me, I wonder if that's karma in a way. I exchange some glances with my peerage. "And two more companions wearing chinese gartments... No idea who those might be. As far as I know, the Hakuryuukou was always alone, save that one that I was told that she has a girlfriend(jk!) as a partner. Still... Her being here is already worrying, more so that she has backup."
"Fate surely knows how to toy with our lives. To think both heavenly dragons would be found in the heart of Kyoto, it would be quite romantic if not by the clashing circunstances." Ryuubi-sensei crosses her arms and tilts her head in a pensive pose. She looks serious, and that's another downer point in this whole situation. More so, she purses her eyes and frowns while a single drip of sweat runs down her head. "And those two companions of her, by that description... Could it be... No, destiny has no business being this cruel..."
"Sensei...?"
"You do not have to worry about either, my dear devils..."
"Gah...!" But when I was about to ask master about her current thoughts, a presence showed herself between us to halg-hug us by the necks and push us closer. My eyes drift to that direction, and I saw that it was that nine-tailed fox from before, her rosy lips flashing a daring smile as her eyes are sharp as before. That's Mutsumi-sama, a close friend of Kunou-sama as she presented herself beforehand. "Mutsumi-sama...?"
"Sure, the presence of the white one is concerning, but so far she only dealt with lower-class youkai and fled the moment she saw herself surrounded, which means she only looks tough, so no reason to fret aimlessly for now..." She chuckles, letting us off as she stands and walks right beside Kunou-sama to sit next to her. Is she underestimating the white dragon? I don't think that's a wise idea. "She even pushed her presence back to the red dragon emperor instead of facing us, so another reason to not to worry for now. Even if her target is dear Kunou-dono, I bet even the great dragon emperor would have some difficulty dealing with her. Put me into the equation, and she can bid her bye-byes."
"Mutsumi-dono, it is not wise to underestimate the power of dragons, especially the heavenly dragons' which surpassed that of Gods." Kunou-sama took the words out of my mouth, taking a concerned yet slightly done gaze at her fox companion. Mutsumi-sama on the other hand let out a small chuckle. This fox lady... She looks on her 20's, but if she's friends with Kunou-sama, she might be just as old as her, and same as her, she has a powerful and gleaming aura not unlike those of aunt Alice or Mary-sensei. Besides, I have the feeling that I know her, and that name does ring a bell.
"That might be true, therefore I'm not underestimating them. However, I also believe in my own strength, and as the former leader of the Kanto youkai faction, if I don't believe in it, I have no rights to be called as such. Kunou-dono, you should also think the same." The mischiveous fox laughs, and after a sigh, Kunou-sama smiles and nods. Wait, 'former leader of the Kanto youkai faction'? Does that mean...?
"Uh, excuse me?" Whiswain lifts her hand. "You said you're the former leader of the Youkai Faction from Kanto. So does that mean... You know Yoko-san?"
"Yoko? Hm... Oh, right. That's the name Kurama uses as a human." Mutsumi-sama seems a bit pensive, but after a moment or two, she snaps her fingers in realization. She then smiles. "Of course I know her, this 'Akabane Yoko'. After all, she's my daughter."
"Eh...?"
Huh...?
...
Whaaaaaaaaaaat~...?
I should ready start trusting my gut feeling more often! I knew her presence felt familiar, and that name does ring a feel bells! She's the mother of none other than my husband, the current leader of the Kanto Youkai faction! She apparently notices my surprise, and turns her gaze to me!
"Surprised? Took you long enough to notice, dear sekiryuutei. I overestimate your better judgement, but worry not, Kurama did say she finds the clueless ones quite endearing." She makes a blasé pose despite my shock, now crawling in my direction with unknown intentions and a smirk on her face. Before I knew it, she came too close and caught me by the chin, taking a quick sniff on me! "And her scent... Is all over you. Not just that, but I feel other smells coming from you, some shared amoung your companions... Huhuh, it's nice to be popular, no?"
"..." My own eyes however turn to a random direction to avoid eye contact, rather, my gaze going places it shouldn't considering how close she is. What's the point of maintaning secrecy if everybody apparently can tell all I did by just 'sniffing' me? Seriously, those supernatural senses are starting to get really tiring!
"Don't worry, you're in the spring of your youth, and by the look in your eyes, I can tell my dearest is in good hands. Don't be too reckless, although it is useless to say that to the red dragon emperor of all people." She chuckles once again, letting go off my face and finally making me breathe. So she's Yoko's mother, I wonder if she will be as radiant and glorious as her mother, although my dear wife is already that on her own... Hm. Mutsumi-sama turns to Kunou-sama, crawling herself back to her position. "The dear red dragon emperor, Tsukino Ichijou, my dear daughter's beau. I must say, Kurama must really love you because you're... Not very alike to the descriptions she gives me."
"Hey." I interject with the nervousness gone, feeling a bit offended while my companions let out a quite rude laughing cough. That was a bit rude, if you ask me, I'm trying my best and I know all those adventures and training paid off! I blink for my rude gaffe, bowing apologetically. "Forgive my slip. Uh... It's nice to finally meet the mother of my dear wife(?), although in such strange situation."
"Huhuh, so polite; adorable." She laughs, turning to Kunou-sama. "He must be a virgin too."
She can't read minds, right? Good. Go to hell, you judgemental fox lady, I'm sick tired of people making fun of my virginity! In response, Kunou-sama karate-chops Mutsumi-sama's head in an almost slapstick-way.
"Please, do not take her words seriously. She might be a former leader and the central point in her region's leylines, but her attitude has much to be desired ever since we were young." The golden Kitsune warns us with an uneasy smile, punishing her partner one more time and making my in-law(?)'s eyes go all awry. I cough a little to disguise a laughter, but then return to the matters at hand.
"That aside, I'm being serious about lending some help in that matter. I might not be part of the faction per se, but I can assist as I can. The white one is my sworn enemy, anyway. Fighting her would not be a hassle in the slightest." I confirm with some determination. Actually, I'm a bit scared about fighting her plus her friends, but excitement also fills my heart with the idea to test some of my newer skills. Besides... Kyoto is a place close to senpai's heart, and I won't allow anyone, not even the white dragon, to desecrate it in any shape or form. The two foxes stopped with their bickering, shared some stares and turned to me. "And I hope I'm not the only one willing to help"
"I have no objections about lending a helping hand at all. Regardless of intentions, I shall not stay idle against chaos and disorder." Sensei nods to me, her fierce words not hiding her soft and warm aura. She turns to the others as well, and from them a sigh and a nervous nod.
"Wheter be heaven or earth, milady's decisions are the honourable ones, and I shall follow them unquestionably."
"I-I might not be much, but I will try to help as I can! If people count on me, t-then there's nothing to fear!"
"Aw, what a bunch of good-doers. I can sense that your intentions are genuine, expected no less from the Red dragon and his lovely companions. Calling them devils makes me feel a bit bad." Mutsumi-sama muses to herself, while Kunou-sama widens her eyes in surprise. My entire peerage react to such praise with a blush and dismissive handwaves, me included. As always, compliments are always nice. But in the end, the golden fox smiles softly, and tilts her head to a side.
"Your assistance is very kind and noble, immensely so even, but I shall refuse to accept so." Kunou-sama spoke, earning from warm and embarrassed expressions to surprised and curious gasps. What? Did she just dismiss us? Despite our shift, she continues with a calm and composed tone. "While Mutsumi-dono's words and arrogance might attract the corresponding nemesis, I agree that such matters are not of concern of others but the Kyoto Youkai faction. Even if the Hakuryuukou dares to offend us, we shall respond in kind with our own forces. We are not a weak faction, not... At all."
"..." I purse my lips, lowering my head deep in thoughts. I respect her position and pride as a leader, and honestly, I would do the same in I were in her shoes. White dragon or not, she is the leader of the Kyoto Youkai Faction, and to stand tall and proud against adversity is required for that. But still, it would leave a bad taste in my mouth to do nothing as the white dragon waltz around doing whatever she wants to the place so close to senpai's heart. What to do... I snap my fingers. "Then, as the Sekiryuutei, the Hakuryuukou and her actions are of my concern just as much, if not more."
"..."
"I understand from where Kunou-sama is coming from. Her goals and beliefs as the Leader of the Kyoto Youkai faction are very admirable, and against them I have no arguments. But concerning the white dragon, I guess I have just as much, if not more, importance in those matters. I'm sorry if I sound intrusive or arrogant, but I also have some duties to fulfill, regardless if they overlap or not with yours. But to be honest, I am also glad that i'm with Kunou-sama in that, not against her." I laugh nervously but with conviction. Did that sound a little too harsh or prideful? I guess so, but if it gives me an excuse to help one of senpai's spouses, than I have no objections. Like hell I'm gonna let the white one roam around Kyoto and do as she pleases as well, this is also where my grandparents live. I turn to the fox leader, and in her shocked face, I see a small tear run down. "A-Ah, Kunou-sama! I'm... Sorry. I said something reckless, didn't I?"
"Don't... Mind me, Sekiryuutei. I'm just feeling... Nostalgic, as I can say as much. I see that, even with him gone, his legacy and spirit lives on among others." Kunou-sama wipes her tear off with her sleeves and smiles softly at us, a smile just as radiant as the sun. I'm more me now, but carrying senpai's legacy is also nice. "What a nice young man you are, Tsukino Ichijou. I'm glad that the red dragon emperor has awakened in you of all people. Very well,I shall accept your assistance in the matters concerning the white dragon. However, consider my duty as the fox youkai leader as well, we shall deal with her swiftly if sighted regardless of your own rivalry."
"Sure, no problem. I think she's more of a problem to you than to me. Heheh..." I laugh sheepishly. I'm backstepping on my words after that, how embarrassing, but I am taking her position and duty in consideration; she doesn't want to look weak or reckless either. Now, silence, not a single word between our two groups, she just keeps staring at me, and I start to feel a bit uncomfortable. I wish I could just fade to black and be in another place like in some anime, but I guess we just need to wait for something to happen. Anytime now, anytime now...
"So Tsukino-kun, how's my daughter's pussy game like?"
"Honestly, Mutsumi-dono..." And that question made me expontaneously spurt air out of my mouth. I knew I needed something to change the scene, but that question from Mutsumi-sama of all things! Kunou-sama simply sighs and hides her face in shame, probably already used to those kind of shenanigans from her fox friend.
"Don't say it like you are not curious. After all, he is my dear daughter's beau, and he's a cutie to boot." Mutsumi-sama chuckles to herself, coming closer to me again to pat my head lovingly, or rather, kind of like I'm a pet of a sorts. "Look at him, look at him and marvel as his cuteness and coolness, mashed together in an awkward teenager who just so happens to be the Red Dragon Emperor! His stance is cool, his powers are cool, I bet his missadventures with the opposite gender(AKA, SEX!) are also something to behold! I was just joking about you probably being a virgin, but do tell, how far have you been with my dear daughter, of any girl for that matter since you have some many scents all over you... Including from your dear companions'."
"Wenched fox spirit...!"
"Hey, hey, hey! Down, Guan Yu...!" And by a nail sensei had to hold Kan'u before she enters sicko mode and becomes a wanted head among the youkai faction. Honestly, I'm also a hairstring's away from snapping at his playful fox, but I think this is what I should've expected. I just hope that doesn't tarnish my reputation to Kunou-sama, although she must already expect something like that from Senpai's successor.
"I think we better leave now, we don't want to show our embarrassing side to any of the leaders of the Youkai faction, right?" I said, standing up from my position and tapping my legs a few times to get rid of the numbness in them, picking Kan'u by the collar before she could lunge herself at her foxes. The rest of my peerage also stands and bows to the duo, turning around to the exit. "Thanks for the hospitality, Kunou-sama, Mutsumi-sama. We'll be taking our leave now, but we'll be around Kyoto, so don't hesitate to contact us, or at least me, in the meantime. Well, best regards."
"Sekiryuutei, may I ask for one final request before you leave? Please?" But Kunou-sama asks for me one last time, and I stomp on the ground to stop myself from leaving, also letting my knight go. A request from her? Wonder what is about? I nod for that, blinking curiously as she stands up and comes closer. Finally close enough, she smiles softly, hums something and slowly says: "Could you... Don your magnificient Scale Mail armour, just this once? It has been... So long ever since I witnessed it, I might sound incredibly rude to ask for that, but I just wish it to see it one more time."
"Uh, sure. I mean, I nothing nothing against it and, oh." And in another blink, I was covered in my Scale Mail armour in a small show of lights as my fingers become claws, my feet become talons and the weight of it falls onto me. It caught me by surprise a little, but I was able to stay dignified enough. Yagura, I know is your doing, but don't do it all nilly-willy, I could've hurt someone! I turn to Kunou-sama, who had sparkles all over her eyes. "So, here it is, Kunou-sama. It might not be much, but there it is."
"Oh my, it is as beautiful as I remember. So magnificient, so dignified..." Her voice trails off and breaks a bit, her hands coming closer and closer until she touches the helmet of the Scale Mail with her slender fingers, making me ever so-slightly lift my head to face her. Such melancholic smile, yet relieved expression. "I'm glad to be alive so I could witness it again, after all this time... If only... If only..."
"Kunou-sama...?" I question her, but instead of answering, she comes closer and hugs me, leaning her entire body on my armour as I hear sobs right next to my ear. Everybody gasps in surprise, me included, but soon enough, realization hits me and I let myself be embraced by this beautiful fox spirit.
I feel happiness and relief, but also grief and sorrow, as I hug Kunou-sama, and the weight of senpai's legacy once again. Not just the Underworld, other factions and species miss senpai, and the world is a bleaker place without him around. He did so much and made so many people happy, and even without him, his legacy and contribuitions remain in this new world.
Escaping from his shadow will never be an easy task. But that's okay, because in the end, a world that so fondly remembers him is a worthy world...
After that moment of skinship and grievance, the best course of action was to leave, and bowing politely to the fox spirits in Kyoto, Kunou-sama called for an assistant to guide us back to the human realm. Surprise, surprise, the chosen was none other than the crow bastard, who almost had a fit encountering us again but was able to slow down in his rage as by Kunou-sama's request. Begrungingly, the karasu-tengu now makes us follow him out of the youkai shrine, down a few stairs down a path not unlike Fushimi-Inari, but the eternal night giving off quite a sinister vibe...
"So this is UraKyoto, the reverse side in which the Youkai faction resides. The aura around here is denser than in the Underworld, I feel again inside a Rating Game reality." I comment as we walk down the stairs. This sensation, this aura; it is not harmful in any way all things considered, but between here and normal Kyoto or even the Underworld, I can sense the difference.
"Must be because of Lady Kunou's and Lady Mutsumi's proximity. After all, she is the epicentre of the leylines that run all across the Kyoto region, and the other is a former fox spirit with centuries of experience. I'm not surprised that they presence alone might influence the entirety of her domain." Sensei ponders, and I might know from where she's coming from with that. Cohen-sama and Aunt Alice are also very powerful devils and so their presence can be felt within reach when we are in the Gremory manor, so it's no wonder being so close of two fox leaders is making me feel suffocated. "I have no doubt that, if Lady Yasaka were to be present, her aura alone would overwhelm them both and affect us even more."
"I see..." I nod to that. A certain name catches my interest and makes me a bit curious as well. That's right, Kunou-sama is not the only fox spirit residing in Kyoto. I turn to the crow bastard and calls for his attention with a light nudge. "Hey Misogi-san, if you don't mind me asking, is there a way for us to contact Yasaka-sama as well? As members of the Gremory house, I think we owe her a visit.
It's an excuse, by the way. The curiosity is mostly mine regarding another of senpai's spouses, this one described as a fox of unparallel beauty even those against the Youkai faction, Rina and Yoko always commenting on how she is a massive head-turner and has an awesome rack-Putation, reputation, that's what I meant.
"You truly are a rude one, Kanto twat! Even if I knew, which I do, show some respect in your request for yours truly, for I am the head security within this domain!" And the black-feathered crow youkai turns to me and practically creaks at me, rage and disdain practically oozing from his red eyes. 'Head security', he says? Poor Kunou-sama, she should probably choose her protectors more cautiously.
"Big words for someone with still a inprint of my size-10 up his ass." I snappily remarked, and we stared at each other intensely with some fire in our eyes, nudging each other to get on each other's nerves. I receive a knock on the back of my head from sensei, and snap back to my senses. "Sorry for that."
"Tch. To be under Kunou-sama's graces, even a Kanto-loser like yourself might be worthy of praise for standing against me." He coughs probably to disguise his also awkward wording. A few moments of silence, only accompanied by our feet clashing on the hard steps, and he turns to us. "As for your question: unfortunately, Yasaka-sama has been struck by sickness for a while now. We don't know what might've caused such, but we believe to be a curse of a sorts. This is confidential information that we don't spread so-leniently, so beware how you face it."
"Lady Yasaka is sick? Or cursed?" My pink Rook asks surprised, a bit of worry and hesitance in her words.
"As I stated, we still don't know the cause of it, but after all this time, we can assume it's something to do with her participation in the... Nevermind." The crow youkai shifted the subject under the rug, but I have a pretty good idea that means she's suffering from the aftermath of the Apocalypse, and being an old youkai as herself, I'm surprised she lived that long. But still, I'm glad she's okay, in a way. "Her state as of now is stable, but until further improvement, she will not be making any public appearances as of now, even for the Red Dragon Emperor."
"Any way we can help?" My question came out instinctively, so much I only notice it after a few seconds of realization. It... Just came out of nowhere, as if knowing she's sick just pushed an overdrive button on me. Again, I feel like senpai's inprints on the Boosted Gear are making me do these. But still. "I mean, you won't refuse all the help you can get, right? Confidential or not, pride or not, I still want to help as much as I can. Yasaka-sama is one of senpai's former spouses. As his successor, it's only natural for me to help the faction as well."
"Stop underestimating the Youkai, you damned devil." Misogi-san turns to us with scorn and hatred, and despite my initial surprise, I tried to stay neutral to his assault. "It is bad enough your kind has placed and spreaded all over Japan without the consent of our leaders, stop offering assistance in matters that does not concern you! The youkai factions have been living quite justly and sufficiently without outside help, and we shall continue to do such without it, specially yours from the outside."
"Misogi-san, you're being unreasonable! Yasaka-sama means a lot for me too...!"
"A traitor of the race has no words in the matter. You call yourself japanese, yet wears the skin and follows a devil! Is there any more proof that distrusting you is justified?" He spits at me before I could say anything else, and for that I grit my teeth to the point I could hear them grinding. Regardless of who I follow and what I am right now, I want to help, isn't that enough?! "Even with the deal between Yasaka-sama and the Maous, I distrust you all, I resent you all. The Youkai faction can very much fend for itself, stop trying to contaminate us with those hollow attempts of pacification, it's unsightly."
"Okay, you listen here, you crow bastard...!"
"And we're here." Before anything could be said further, he turns around and walks down the stairs. "Now, follow me to the exit. This conversation is over, and so is my patience with you lot. Leave UraKyoto as soon as possible..."
"Fine, whatever!" I throw my hands in the air and changed gears down the stairs so I could leave as soon as possible, my patience on the limit as well. Fine, whatever! He doesn't want to listen to me, so to hell with him! But he won't stop me from trying to help Yasaka-sama, as if I need his permission! Eventually, we reached the end of the stairway and he opens a rift in space for us to leave, and without changing any more words, we left through it into the human realm, where it was still noon. The portal closed as left nothing behind, as if it wasn't there in the first place, and once out of sight, I lowered himself with my head down and let a nervous and heavy sigh. "Fuuuuuuuuuck~..."
"Well, what did you expected from niponic Youkai? Barbarians and savages to the very end." And still in my down position, I hear Kan'u complain. "Their society is solely based on strength and bringing misfortune for others, yet at the same time, a cowardly faction that only targets unaware humans instead of other supernatural beings, no wonder they lost territory for the likes of the Church or the Devils. Honestly, helping them is a principle instead of a free choice at this point."
"...!"
"Don't look at me like that, Hong Long. Deny as you want, reality won't bend to you even using all the strength of the Red Dragon of Domination." The spearwoman continues to dictate those facts, and I feel the rage boiling up again, despite the fact I can't refute them either! I stand up in a jet move and turn to her face-to-face, her face stoic as ever. "I shall always follow milady in her journeys even if they include those youkai in the mix, but if it depended on me, they could rot and die for all I care. They call devils dirty, but they're the biggest smudge on the supernatural faction."
"Guan Yu, that's enough." Sensei demanded, and before I could lunge at her, the knight piece sighed and lowered her stance, turning elsewhere. I bring a hand to my eyes to wipe off the tears on them, my eyes bloodshot and itching for some violence after all of that! My rook notices my agitation, and comes closer to pat my head. "Hong Long, calm down, please. Your aura is scaring everything away, and it pains me to see you like that. Please..."
"...!"
"Hong Long...?"
*PUNCH!*
"Hong Long...?!"
"'Tis fine, 'tis fine. I'm cool now, I'm cool now... Shit." I said with a now bleeding nose after a direct self-hit in the face. Owowowow, self-flagellation have been a great help since forever for me, but I won't ever get used to it. Whiswain came closer to try to use some magic on my affected area while tearing up, and once the pain stops, I sigh, bend down for a second or two and lift myself with a new resolution. "Okay then... Let's do the following: even without their consent, let's try to help them deal with the white one and Yasaka-sama's affliction."
"Still with that?" Kan'u shrugs. "Since when you became the hero of charity, red dragon? Besides, why bother when the Youkai made it very clear that they refuse assistance? To ignore their request will probably make you their enemy, regardless of results or intentions."
"Yeah, two words: fuck that. They won't listen to me, I won't listen to them either." I stuck my tongue out and flipped the bird to show how many fucks I give to their opinion. Permission or not, I don't care after that, what I do care is that someone I am (technically) close to is sick, and I should help her as much as I can, this is what senpai would do and what I want to do. I do wonder if me being the red dragon after senpai has something to do with it. I take a deep breath to recompose myself a bit more. "It's not that I want to pick a fight with an entire faction, holy shit that would be a hell of a headache, but I want to help as I can, for Yasaka-sama's sake and my own volition. No strings attached, I just feel... Like I shoiuld do something, y'know."
"Second-handed intentions towards a third-handed wench. Somehow it is difficult to believe you're doing such without any thoughts. I suppose, regardless of era, the red dragon will always be and act like a fool."
"Who are you to say anything about second-handed intentions, Kan'u Unchou from the Shuu Dinasty?" I retorted bitterly at her rude remark, and the staring contest between us couls break glass in we wanted to. Whatever, I'm not in the mood to knock heads with this one, so I just shrug her off. "You don't need to help me if you don't want to, go around and explore Kyoto instead. I can't order you to do it, anyway."
"Hong Long, as noble as your intentions are, I shall side with Guan Yu in that regard: if your goals and objectives are simply spurts of the moment as you usually call them, then please rethink them before taking any action. A clear and healthy mind shall allows us to move deeper." And sensei calls a hault for us, meanwhile also lecturing and siding with her general, much for my surprise and her delight. What's she talking about? Of course I want to help Yasaka-sama and the Youkai Faction, that's the least I can do... But why, indeed. I mean, it's not like any of my allies have close ties with them, Yoko nonewithstanding, and after what that crow bastard said to me, I should just refuse to help just out of spite... But on the other hand, it does feel mean to just do nothing about it. I purse my lips and turn to sensei for some assistance, up to no avail. "I have nothing against helping lady Yasaka and her Faction for the fact her and master Wukong are close acquaintances, as clear as their disdain for us is. Please, do not pride or rage blind your judgement, Ichijou..."
"..." I groan silently. I know she's not subtly trying to avoid that situation altogether, everybody knows she will do whatever it takes to help a peer in need, but I just can't match with her right now. I lower my head one more time, crossed my arms and comtemplate my navel for a few seconds. One, two... I lift a hand. "You're right, sensei. Having half-assed intentions and half-assed reasons, as great as they are, will only result in a game over for us and making the youkai hate the devils more than they already do. But still, I want to help."
"And the reason for that is...?"
"Because I want to."
"..."
"..."
"So that's your answer. Typical Hong Long... That's a good answer."And sensei opens a smile on her rosy lips for that. Yeah, no ulterior motives, no string attached, I won't help to prove some asshole wrong nor get any rewards from busty foxes, nor anything; I want and will help solely because I feel it's the right thing to do and because I want to. My pink rook comes closer and kisses my forehead, soon addressing all of us. "Very well, it is decided then: the members of Berolina Gremory's peerage shall lend a hand to the Kyoto Youkai faction! We shall assist as we can in a time of need and strenghten the bond between us!"
"Thanks, sensei." I nod, content. I turn to the other two members present, and despite their subdued expressions, I feel some doubt and hesitance on them. It is my decision, of course, no need to drag them into this again. "But I mean it when I say that you guys don't need to be in. I'm no leader or anything, plus, like sensei said, half-assed determination won't get us anywhere. So, Whiswain, Kan'u, it's up to you if you want to be part of it."
"I-I... I never said I don't want to part of it." The grim reaper bishop nodded at me, her face as red as a tomato and nerousness building up, but her stance and glow just wouldn't go away. She's scared, of course she is. "It's something so big, yes, so of course I'm a bit scared... But with everyone around, I feel it's a bit more manageable. Besides... Yasaka-sama is also someone close to Yoko-san, right? I don't want her... To be sad, too. So count me in."
"There's really no stopping you, eh? I wonder from where that determination comes, it's a bit irritating, to be honest." Kan'u scoffs, arms crossed and sighing. I'm so used of her belittling, it didn't affected me as much, and in the end, she relented, her crimson eyes shining a tired yet determined look. "I shall assist you as well, for as brief as this quest is. Not for you, of course, but for milady."
"Right. So the party is settled, then." I nod, extending a fist so that we could call knock it in a sign of mutual agreement. "Let's help Yasaka-sama and her Faction, and deal with the hakuryuukou while at it! Even with all of her might, she can't match the power of half of our peerage!"
"Y-Yeah!/Agree!/I suppose." They all said in unison. We might be a bunch of newbies in this whole supernatural affair, but as long as we're together, I feel that it becomes a bit more manageable. I'm doing this because I want to, for a cause that I know is just, and so, we walk into that path with my peerage mates supporting and helping me. So, let's do this, into the supernatural streets of Kyoto we go!
"Luci-Luci-Lucifer~, morning star Lucifer~. Luci-Luci-Lucifer~, Butt-lover Lucifer~!"
"Huh...?" But a bizarre song coupled with a shiver down my spine makes me turn around to a direction from where it comes, and who comes down the stairs reaching for the temple at the top of the mountain is a dark-haired, blue-eyed young lass wearing some trendy clothes and skipping the steps of stone. A rude gasp escapes my mouth, loud enough for her to hear me and turn to me, and the moment our eyes met, I knew for sure who I was facing. "Hakuryuukou...!"
"Oh hey, Red. Fancy seeing you here." She smiles and waves, but then she vanishes from sight when I tried to reach for her in a flash! Using all the speed I could muster, I tried to reach for her with a blow but catching only air. One blink, and she's now by my side, unchanged. "Whoopsie~. You missed, red dragon. Better luck next time."
"You...!" I turn and tried to smack her, blows so strong and fast it would shake trees and make the torii tremble, yet she dodges them like nothing, her movements being faster and more graceful. One final jump to gain even more distance, and she sticks her tongue out. "Why...!"
"Look, I'd love to stay and talk and shit, but I gotta job to do, so I can't stay idle for too long. Besides, I still have some tourism to do in Kyoto, and I don't wanna..." And she's cut when contorting herself to dodge a blow from Kan'u and Ryuubi-sensei, whose teamwork wasn't enough and the dark-haired dragon slipped through their fists and kicks. Gaining some distance, she jumps and lands right on top of my head, and when I tried to hit her from there, another jump and landing on the stairway. "... Miss anything in this beautiful place. Artie asked me for some souvenirs, after all. What kind of girlfriend(JK!) would I be if I don't fulfill such?"
"Like hell I'm gonna let you slip like that, white dragon...!" I said, ready to summon Ix and get serious, but a hand stops me on my tracks by blocking me away from the white one! I turn and I notice it was sensei.
"Hong Long, not here. There are too many witnesses. Our secrecy vow will be broken if we were to summon our weapons. Same goes for you, Guan Yu." She explains, Kan'u also lowering her stance and dismissing her battle pose. I take a good look around, and yes, we're no longer in UraKyoto, there are humans, normal humans, walking around and minding their own business, some even stopping to see the commotion we caused but soon ignore it as a small fight between hooligans. Too many people, if we were to get serious, we would expose ourselves as devils and in the worst case, hurt some of them. Shit, no other choice, I lower my hands and dismiss any intentions to summon my own weapons. Sensei nods, then turns to the white one. "As for you, Bài Long, what business do you have here? Your intentions are well known between us, but exposing yourself like that, aren't you being too careless? Or perhaps you might've lost your mind."
"Hohoh, so you guys can talk like normal. That's good to hear, Dante always says that a person who hits first and asks later are weak on the heart." The White one chuckles and waves a dismissive hand as one of my brows twitch. She's taking me for a fool, stupid dragon! One, two seconds of silence, and then she lifts from her pocket a small bag and shaking it a little, we hear metallic rings from within. "Relax, you lot. I'm just here to collect my payment and have some sightseeing around. Like I said, I'm here on business and leisure, so as long as the client asks to deal with you, I'm not gonna do you any harm unless you get in my way."
"Business?" I murmur, but I soon realized what she meant. Yeah, I remember from the priest we saw back at the conference, he and the white dragon are members of a gang of do-all mercenaries who calls themselves the 'Weiss Team'. They don't discriminate and as long as there's money, they're okay with anything within their boundaries. So wait, does that mean... "And who is the one who asked for your services, Hakuryuukou? You should have a name or anything!"
"What did I tell you about calling me that? I have a name, 'Elizabeth', 'Lisa' for short, y'know! You know that, and it's very rude to call me knowing that, ...!"
"..."
"..."
"Ichijou."
"Yeah! It's very rude to call me knowing my name already, Ichijou!" She corrects herself with a sweatdrop down her brows. I guess I'm not the only one with problems remembering names. I wonder why...
"Enough with the idle chat, answer the damn question, Bài Long." Kan'u spits, practically grunting as her hands just couldn't stop shaking as if ready to choke a bitch. One, two seconds for Lisa-san, and her eyes softens and her smile grows. "Who sent you? What's his or her race? For how much and with what purpose? Answer those questions, and we might be merciful..."
"Jesus. Ichijou, put a leash on that girl, she might have rabies..." The white one jokes with light hands in the air, faking fear and intimidation. I was faster to stop Kan'u from lunging at her and still questioned the white one about her 'odd job' here in Kyoto. "And about those... Sorry, but secrecy is key in a job like ours. The client just paid a good sum to cause some havoc around here, and we took it without a 'but' or 'why'; like good mercenaries do. If you truly are curious about it, just ask them directly... If you can find them, that is. Hohoho."
"So, not in the mood to be cooperative, right? Fine then, I'll rip it off from you instead." I said, instead adopting a hand-to-hand position and readying my fists against her. Secrecy regarding our identities is key, but I guess a street brawl between hooligans is a fair game, right? Lisa-san hums calmly with interest, still with crossed arms. "I know you love yourself a brawl or two, Lisa-san, so let's fight like delinquents. And if I win, you tell me everything you know. How about it?"
"Bold today, aren't we? It's an attractive offer, dear Ichijou, but alas, I'll have to refuse. Work goes first, right?" She winks and sticks her tongue out in a blasé pose, drawing not only confusion but a form of rage within me. Wait, only now she's refusing to fight? What gives?! I thought the inheritor of the white dragon emperor would know better! Now I'm 100% about this 'job' she's talking about! "Please don't pout, my dear red dragon. In any other moment, I would gladly take such offer and let ourselves kill each other, but now I have a job to do, so no time to play. Feel free to call me anytime, though."
"Why, you...!" And in another spurt, I jump into her direction and tried to punch her again, only to only reach for an afterimage and see her move right next to me. The surprise and lack of tempo made me lose balance and with a few steps forwards, I almost fell on my face! She's fast, really fast!
"I'm not your enemy, Ichijou. Of course, we're rivals and I'm very glad for that, but this time, you're looking in the wrong direction." She comes closer to whisper in my ear, and as I was about to call her on that, Kan'u descends from the skies and tries a blow against the white one, to no avail as she jumps away again and lands next to sensei and Whiswain. "For once, I'm not your enemy. I might become an adversary, however, I'm just a gear in this whole thing doing my best to gain the day's bread and butter. If you really want to stop it, then look further for the true enemy, otherwise it's just a chicken game."
"What the hell does that mean, Lisa-san?" I inquire, biting my lips. She chuckles, wink at my other pieces and then walks away into the crowd. I walk down the staircase to try to reach for her, but the people around her were too tighly together, pulling her away would cause a ruckus. She just lifts a hand and waves at us.
"You'll find out soon enough, Ichijou dear. Don't be a knucklehead like that girlfriend of yours and you'll figure it out yourself. Until then, bye-bye."
"Wait...!" And as soon as I blink, she vanishes. No trace or shadow, a simple dust admist the crowd. What the hell does she mean that 'she's not the enemy'? I guess causing havoc around Kyoto and threatening the leader of the Youkai faction is enough to at least imagine a target marked on her head. But then again... I turn to the others. "The true enemy, that's what she said... Wonder what or who that could be..."
"To be honest, it might be just a way for her to get on our nerves and fight harder for her sick amusement." Kan'u exclaimed, arms crossed and teeth gritting, her rage turned to Whiswain who so shyly hid behind me. "Make us go around and circles and despair with the lack of information until we're fighting nails and teeth against that sick lass, it wouldn't feel out of place in the mind of the Bài Long."
"We can't discard the possibility of a true perpetrator either." Sensei indulged in that alternative, adjusting her (fake) glasses and comtemplating with us. "For revenge, for a grudge, for honour or glory; there are no bounds to greed or pride, and I won't be surprised if the chances of Elizabeth being simply as gear as she says in a bigger picture are equal if not higher of her just aggroing our group and an entire faction. It would be counterproductive as well, having a target on her head like that..."
"Hm, but for what Kunou-sama stated, she also had other allies accompanying her, which means she's not here to just fight. For her to have so many people around her..." We all turn to Whiswain with that statement, and she whines a little with so much and sudden attention. Of course, Kunou-sama did say Lisa-san brought some friends along the way, and unless they're just as dumb and battle-hungry as her, they must have a bigger role in this whole ordeal. "S-Should we... Contact Berolina-san and the others?"
"Contact Rina... That's a good point, Whiswain."
"Eh...?"
"To cause a ruckus around Kyoto would heavily jeopardize the chances for the Weiss Team to make business with other factions, specially other Youkai and the Underworld, and provoke the wrath of their closest allies such as the Gremory or the Kanto Faction; yet to do 'business' in such a nonchalant way, Lisa-san must know that we wouldn't get involved otherwise taking account youkai pride. " I deduce. Lisa-san might be carefree and a bit stupid, but as the white dragon emperor I doubt she's careless or that dumb. This is making twists inside my head, and we barely get any scrapes for that mystery. I sigh. "Shit, this is getting too complicated. She's causing chaos in Kyoto with friends, which means unless they're just as dumb knuckleheads as her, she's doing that for shits and giggles at all. She doesn't have a clear target, but she's earning for that from the 'True enemy', and something tells me the leaders of the factions play a part in this whole thing, but still... Geez."
"Let us regroup and act at another day. The sun is setting and for what we have, we can't construct anything concrete as for now. Let us rest and think of that tomorrow as we assist the youkai as we can." Sensei wisely suggested, and with all we got, we all agreed to do just that. As little as it is, that much information can be vital to go deeper in this, so we decided to share that bit with Kunou-sama and Mutsumi-sama on the day after. For now, let's head to my grandparents' house and take a shower or two and a nap for this stressful day.
Still... The 'True enemy', something tells me that's she's telling the truth about it, and nothing makes me more irate.
...
Being welcomed in the Tsukino state by another flamming dropkick courtesy of grandfather Kazuki, we spent the rest of the day resting in our room as baa-chan Ichika prepared quite a meal for us, of course including Ochazuke, and jii-chan Kazuki was delighted to tell some good spots and stories about Kyoto to sensei, who listened to them with a certain glee. I couldn't quite enjoy the time of leisure as I was too busy thinking about Lisa-san's words, but I tried my best to look satisfied and relaxed. Damn, like I said, one problem arises after another, no matter what I do or to where I go. And so the night came...
"Whoa~. It's so soft and light, I feel like I'm in an inn. Grandmother is surely amazing." Whiswain, bath taken with the others, says happily as she spins around in the yukata baa-chan was so kind to lend to her and the others. Myself am wearing just a black shirt and sweatpants since I don't fit in their size anymore. Still, there's something oddly charming about 3 foreign girls wearing traditional nipponic wear.
"Indeed she is, as she even prepared four futons for her dear guests. I feel blessed and honoured of such graces." Sensei comments with her head on the pillow on one of the four futons on the floor, four pillows and four blankets decorated with stamps of landscapes and animals. I come closer to them and I can sense that they're not either dusty or ripped, neither do they smell old. Grandma must be taking care of those dearly even without guests. As expected from Tsukino Ichika. "Sleeping in those must be a dream... Oh my, what a bad joke that was. Hohohoh!"
"Ain't nobody sleeping next to milady. I shall be taking this futon as I will hear no complains from either of you." Kan'u on the other hand lays on her sides and tosses a hateful gaze at her, tapping the blanket of the only futon next to sensei's, as they were arranged two-by-two with the pillows facing each other.
"That's fine by me. Unless Whiswain don't want me to sleep next to her, then I guess I'll take my futon elsewhere." I said sitting on my own futon which was the one facing against sensei's, and taking a small glance at the grim reaper bishop and earning from her a quick and red nod, I took this one as my own. I shrug and yawn, I feel a bit tired for some reason. "Hwah~. Man, what a day, at my first one here too. I'm starting to think my head is a magnet for trouble..."
"To be fair, you're the one trying to stirr some commotion amoung our meetings." Sensei includes with a chuckle and a light sigh, looking pensive at me. I snap a bit, coming to the realization that she isn't that wrong, I was just feeling a bit confrontational today, and honestly only notice that on the second look. Huh, what gives indeed. "From our departure from Kuoh to our meeting with the foxes and the Bài Long, you became a lot bolder ever since I've met you. I wonder the reason for that... And if that has something to do with dear father."
"..." I lightly bite my lower lips, soon turning away while hiding my mouth from their gaze. If only they knew. This new outlook of mine has nothing to do with dad, but it doesn't have a small finger of him there either. We hear small steps coming closer and soon enough we see a silhouette by the other side of the sliding door, soon revealing herself to be Ichika-baachan.
"Is there anything you need for the night before a good sleep, my dears?" The old lady asks politely with a bow, and we all share a second of silence turned to each other, and then negatively shake our heads for her polite suggestion. I see a small smile forming. "Then I bid you all goodnight. Pleasant dreams, and please enjoy this trip to your hearts' content in the beauties of Kyoto."
"Thanks, grandma." I nod. "But, uh, is it really okay for me to sleep next to those three? I know you're the one who arranged our futon, but I wonder if Ichika-jiichan didn't have a fit or anything..."
"Don't worry, Jun-chan. Your dear grandfather had some words and protests for this arragement, but it's all in the past now." The old lady kindly smiles. "I know my dear grandson enough to know he would behave yourself."
"Oh... Thanks, Baa-chan."
"Indeed... I know enough to know my dear grandson is too chickenshit to do anything to the opposite gender, so don't worry dear."
"Oh... Thanks, baa-chan."
"Well then, excuse me and pleasant dreams." She leaves then, closing the sliding door. Grandma Ichika is still sharp as always, and I think this is a good thing from time to time, but she can be quite scary othertimes. I turn to my other peerage mates and they were also a bit tired from this whole trip. I guess it is indeed time to sleep.
"You sleep with us around every single night back in Kuoh, why would that be a problem here?" Kan'u asks, and I smack her with a pillow for that stupid question.
"Because they don't know or haven't been hypnotized to accept a man like me sleeping with three other girls around as normal, genius!" I shouted, and like if this haven't occur to them yet, Whiswain and sensei gasped in realization. Seriously?! Is common sense lacking even in those two?! Although I did forget that I wasn't suppose to bath with them either. I stand up, reach for the lights and turn them off. "Now, let's go to sleep. I feel like tomorrow will be as chaotic as today, if not more..."
We all agreed to that and laid on our beds to take a good night of sleep. The pillow under my bed felt like clouds and the soft and warm blanket made me forget about the summer warmth. Indeed, for some reason, I feel at home here in Kyoto, but maybe that's because I'm far, far away from him. Or maybe because that's a place closer to senpai's heart, and for that and others that I'll protect this place as I can, even if I have to face the white dragon emperor. For senpai, and for me...
A flick of light, a small ring from my phone, and opening my eyes I see there was a small message. I slide my finger on it, turning down the luminosity so that it wouldn't wake the others up, and I see it is from Rina. She sent me a goodnight kiss, and after another ring or two, Yoko and Tasha sent theirs too. I wonder what they have been up to back in Kuoh, if they're having their own adventures as well.
We promised to not tell them so that it wouldn't cause a commotion and respect Kunou-sama's wishes, but I'm still a bit nervous about this whole ordeal. I click one more time and send a goodnight kiss to all in response before putting the phone down.
"Is it master Berolina? Or dear Lady Yoko?" I blink once to turn up where Ryuubi-sensei sleeps, one eye peeking back at me. I let out a silent chuckle and nodded, and in response she laughs as well, that was such an obvious answer. "You must miss them as much as they miss you. But worry not, I know they also must've thought you need a moment or two away from your father. Fools they're not, Hong Long..."
"Yeah, I know that much." I sigh, feeling like the fool she mentions. I'm too cowardly to admit it to them, but I do need some space to think away from dad, I hope they can understand it so, and that I didn't tarnish our relationship too much with it. I just feel so... Angry. "I'm sorry too, sensei..."
"No need to, I understand completely. To be honest, I'm glad that you've been quite honest with your feelings from back then when we first met. It means we're getting closer. Still..." She blinks, supporting her head to turn to me with a resting Buddha pose. I couldn't help but to let my eyes drift a bit down her opening cleavage, soon turning away and laying my head on the pillow instead. "... If you're feeling comfortable of sharing now, I'm all ears. I might lack any deeper knowledge on such subject, but I shall always lend an ear to comfort you and guide you as I can."
"..." I... Don't feel angry like before, I feel a bit better too, and she's so honest with me I think I can share almost anything with my rook. But even so, a side of me that's pretty pathetic and resentful, that I haven't told anyone, not even people I love that much, it's too much for me. I sigh, maybe, just this time. "Okay sensei... I'll try... But I'm sorry if I make you hate me or anything."
"Hong Long, I love you. Nothing in this world would make me hate you... But feel free to struggle trying, it is charming in a way." A small smiley chuckle, and I feel a bit better more. I guess that's a way for her to assure me in the end. She's indeed worthy of all praises...
And so I... Started to tell it. A bit of coughs, hesitation, bites on the tongue, but I told her almost everything; my two best friends from where I was 6, our adventures together, how their father was a zealot asshole under the church, how my father tricked me into giving them condoms only for uncle Henry to put me in a hospital for almost a month, those lonely years avoiding people so that I no longer would be abandoned or lonely, the morph from love to abuse from my sisters all for my sake, and my hatred for the man known as Tsukino Hajime, the one who caused it all and feels no regret for his actions, going on with his life like he didn't just ruin mine. In the end, I told her everything that I could, and with a sigh, I bite my tongue once again...
"I see. So that's the root behind all of those." Sensei finally spoke when the tale was done. She doesn't sound affected, but I wonder what kind of emotion she's feeling right now. "That is quite a tale, Hong Long. How can a simple mistake led to such is astounding, and I feel a bit closer to you as a result. Now I can understand your feelings a bit clearer..."
"It sounds kinda pathetic, right?" I let out a small sardonic yet bitter chuckle for her response. I'm no orphan in search for revenge nor a genius who dedicates himself to honour a fallen comrade, I'm just a bitter, resentful teenager who hates his dad. All the pain, all the loneliness, because I don't want to be hurt anymore, only changing little by little now, who gets angry just by mentioning his old man. He never even apologized, not even once, and wants me to just accept it and forgive it? "But... I truly, really hate my father, sensei. After all he has done, ruining everything for me and never apologizing... I'm not in the wrong for that. Right? To hate the man known as Tsukino Hajime, it is only natural after all he has done."
"Hong Long..."
"Don't humour his wrath, milady." Shock! A third voice came out of nowhere and made me almost jump from the futon! We turned to the direction of it and we found out it was coming from the futon besides sensei's, where the tiger general was resting. A small nudge, and she turns to us, her red eyes reflecting the moonlight. Has she been listening to us this whole time?! "Don't respond to him in any way. What he feels about his father is one thing, and what we feel about his resolution and reasoning is another. He knows that you'll agree with him and that would inflate his ego and makes him think he's justifiable in his harm against others. Do not humour him or validate his actions, for this is how vices and cicles of negativity are born and propagated."
"And what do you know about anything, Kan'u? You don't know what I've been through because of that." I retorted. Her brow frowns, but unlike her usual anger, she seems a bit subdued while I boil inside with her lack of understanding.
"You're correct, Hong Long. Your experiences are your own, hence why you should not search for validation or credit in the thoughts of others. Doing so for solace or justification for your actions makes you look oddly pathetic." She huffs, and I was a hairstring's away to truly hurt her, but instead I lay on my pillow and bite the buton, frustrated. No hum of victory nor any smug reaction, a single sigh as she turns to the ceiling. "Do not seek solace in others, for are those who will condemn or pamper you. Milady, who's just and kind, will never tell you that you're wrong, and doing so, will prevent you from taking the path that you find right. Do not cling to others, otherwise you're a bigger fool than I thought."
"You..." I clench my fist, but after a second or two, the rage subsided, and I couldn't help but sigh. To search solace and justification on others who agree with me, I guess that's a way of putting it. The reason as to why I always avoid to talk about my relationship with my father is always to also avoid getting told that I'm wrong, but being right has also its toxic side. I guess I really am a coward. "Kan'u..."
"Hm...?"
"Thanks for listening to me. I mean it..." I murmur, putting my head down on the pillow. Another head turn and she faces the opposite side, leaving only sensei and I. I turn to my pink-haired rook and nodded. "And thank you for your time, sensei. Your protege might be a bitch, but I gotta agree with her for now: I should figure things out my own way. Wheter be still hating my father or changing my mind, I don't think I should drag any of you with me, in any way, nor try to validate anything with the thoughts of others."
"You do you, Hong Long." She smiles, adjusting her position so she could face the ceiling and close her eyes to finally sleep. "I know you didn't reach for me for validation or other utter motive; you're too kind for that. If you're feeling better, if just a little, in sharing your story, then I'm satisfied."
"Yeah." And I lower myself to try to sleep again. I do feel a bit better sharing that little tale of me and my childhood friends, and even after what's going on, I feel a bit braver too. "I'll stop looking back too, sensei. I'll regret my decisions later, instead of regretting taking none at all forever."
Yes, I won't regret any decisions I make from now on, I won't hesitate anymore and just think of what could've been. It might be a fool's thought process, but senpai didn't becomea legend by staying idle either.
I finally close my eyes and wish myself a good night of sleep. Tomorrow is another day, and with it, new choices and new opportunities. I do wonder, sometimes, if Nina-chan or Julia-chan are alright, wherever they are. I can only wonder...
"Atchoo!"
"Well, that's how they say in this country, Katarina: you're never too stupid to not catch a cold."
"Zip it, master Paul. A 12-hour trip to Japan is a bitch to anyone, and witty remarks like yours only make my humour worse. The food was also awful..."
"Well, we're here, the land of the Rising Sun, dear Japan. To think Claire would be downgraded and father Maxmillian would be promoted at the same time, it feels like fate coming here. So, should we get the next train to our destination?"
"Aw~, I wanted to go to DTR to celebrate or something..."
"We can go there when we're finished, you lazy bum. Next stop... Kuoh town and their devils."
"Tch, fucking annoying..."
And that's a wrap. A slower chapter to set-up some major plot points in this arc and a bit of development for our red dragon emperor. He's trying his best for what he gets, and coming out of his shell is a big step in any direction, although, as Guan Yu stated, not to fish for sympathy, of course. But the big bad of this arc makes his appearance and the white dragon is not playing games this time, the path to be a professional! Also, please excuse Guan Yu and her reasoning, as she can really be a bitch, but a good wake-up call from a person that doesn't like you is louder than the one who do. But let's talk about it in other occassion.
I hope you all liked this chapter despite all the moroseness and talk and wait for the upcoming, as we turn back to Kuoh and Rina and her friends. As always, don't forget to R&R, stay safe and greetings from Houki Minami~.
THE KAICHOU: Serena Sitri
- The heiress of the Sitri clan, direct descendant of Sona Sitri and the student council president. She's 17-y/o and her birthday is December 2nd.
- The granddaughter of Sona Sitri and Saji Genshirou, she is not very fond of her grandmother's ideals due to the bad reputation it got her and the Sitri as a whole after the war. She does respect her as family and leader, and wishes to lead the Sitri as she did.
- Extremely popular in Kuoh academy, she got almost unanimous vote as the student council president, and the majority of her evil pieces work alongside her with it. She's naturally big-hearted and as long as you aren't against her, she'll love you.
- She's friends with Berolina ever since they were kids due to the close connection with the two clans and shared interest in their history, but Nemesis is not very fond of her because their personalities and how to deal with crisis don't usually match.
- A virgin, but she's quite loose on that term; as she had several... 'Experiments' with the male members of her peerage, except Hideyoshi because he's gay. She's also touchy-feely with her female evil pieces, but they don't reciprocate as much.
- The author would like to apologize for the lack of consistency regarding Serena's eye colouration(They're brown, but sometimes written as either red or purple).
- Currently spending her holyday studying and trying to find another possible Rook and Bishop.