Ch. 22 Cross + Family + Goodbye + Vampire
Principal of Yokai Academy,
I have been proud to act as a teacher for the students attending this school. The joy and excitement brought out by the students and staffs have well been something to look forward to every day. Unfortunately, I must request a resignation of my post as the school maintenance supervisor and Woodshop instructor. Although granting a student's education is important, I have priorities as a Celestial Reaper to fulfill. Please let them know of my absence and give them my warm regards. Muchas Gracias para todos.
Sincerely,
Raimundo Ortega
"That should do it," Rai said. He folded the paper and stuffed it inside the envelope. Jolt took the packet and licked the inside glue. Rai then proceeded to shut it and place it in his back pocket.
"Pika pika," Jolt looked depressed.
"I know, buddy," Rai petted his Pikachu. "But we can't keep messing around here. We're on a mission, and that includes us trying to help others. Tsukune…" Rai looked out the window of his shed. "We can't do anything for him now. I'm sorry, but he's on his own." Rai locked in his belt and grabbed his scythe. He began being more suspicious and aware of where his scythe is so he can have it ready at any time. They both left the shed and starting walking off into school. Since he no longer had class for the rest of the day, they simply walked down the hallways and observed the students as they paid attention to their lessons. He took a notice to one of the classrooms. Rai slid the door very slightly and peeped in on the class. Jolt watched from the top of Rai's head. Miss Nekonome was educating the class on poetry. She called out to one of her students to explain the meaning.
"Okay, then," Miss Nekonome asked, "Who'd like to give it their best shot at translating this poem? Mister Aono?" Tsukune continued to look out the window.
"Hey, Tsukune," Mizore whispered to him, "You listening?"
"Earth calling Mister Aono," Miss Nekonome was getting impatient. Moka stood out of her seat.
"I'll try it," Moka spoke out. "I fall asleep while still pining away in my heart for you…that every jet black night without fail…I see you in my dreams…but it helps not." She finished her translation. "Is that it?"
"…What an amazing job!" Miss Nekonome cried with joy. "That was absolutely perfect ~!"
"At least she's doing well in her studies," Rai said. He slid the door closed and moved on ahead. As they made their way downstairs, they saw Rubi running the school convenience store with snacks, school supplies, and other merchandise. "Oh, hey Rubi." Rai waved to her.
"Why, hello Mr. Ortega!" Rubi greeted him. "How have you been?"
"Alright, I guess," Rai responded. "Snack shack runner, huh? Must be a long story." Rubi froze in place. Dark clouds surrounded her in a sorrow and depressing atmosphere. "What's wrong, Rubi?"
"My line…I only get a few in each chapter, and…"
"Oh shit, my bad!"
"Pika Pika!" Jolt cried out.
"Let's just run by that again, okay?" Rai offered.
"Yes," Rubi grew cheerful, "It's a long story, but I'm just doing a little work for the school director, Tee-hee ~." Rai and Jolt sweat dropped.
"Say, Rubi." Rai pulled out the letter from his back pocket. "I need to ask you something."
"You're leaving Yokai Academy!?" Rubi spoke out as she swept the school yard.
"Shhh! Keep it down!" Rai lowered his voice. On the ground, Jolt held a dustpan to help Rubi sweep up the dirt…any for that matter. "I know it's sudden, but I just need you to deliver this to the principal."
"You mean the Director?" Rubi asked.
"Sure, why not." He handed her the letter. Jolt's ears perked up.
"Pi?" Jolt looked over to the front gate. "Pika Pikapika!" Jolt waved his arms to get the two's attention.
"Huh?" Rai looked down. Jolt was pointing at the person leaving through the front gate. "Isn't that Tsukune?" Rubi also noticed him.
"Where's he…?" Rubi cut it short as Jolt went running after him. Rai and Rubi followed. Keeping under low profile, they hid behind various trees to become undetected. They soon found Tsukune stopping in the middle of the path.
"Man, the guy hasn't been the same since Moka changed," Rai whispered. "He's done nothing but sob throughout the week."
"Tsukune really misses her, doesn't he?" Rubi asked.
"She was his girlfriend." They listened to Tsukune as he talked about his thoughts.
"Moka…" he looked down at his hands. "I just…I just wanna see you." He began to cry. "…One more time." Rai began to leave.
"Hey, wait!" Rubi tried to stop him. "We can't just leave Tsukune like this!"
"But we can't help him either," Rai stated. "If he wants Moka back, he's gonna have to find another cross like the one she had before, and I doubt there's a catholic church for miles over here."
"Chu," Jolt frowned. Its ears fell. Rubi remained silent, but she knew what had to be done.
"Listen; I'm going to obey a direct order from the director," she said. Rai turned around.
"What do mean?"
"…There's something I'm not supposed to tell anyone…but, I'm going to tell you."
"Pika?" Jolt was curious.
Night
Tsukune stared outside the window of his dorm. The window just across from his was the same one the Moka he knew would be sitting by each night. Instead, it was now a cold dark room with hardly anything left to see. He was ready to turn in.
Tap!
A small rock knocked against his window. Tsukune looked over the sill and saw two figures standing on the ground. Jolt was waving his hands to him, while Rai smiled up to his view.
"Mr. Ortega?" Tsukune asked. In a rush, he ran out to the small plaza and met with Rai and Jolt by the center park. "It's kinda late. Is there something you wanna tell me?"
"Just needed to pass along the message from Rubi," Rai answered.
"Rubi?" Tsukune was curious. "What's wrong with Rubi?"
"Nothing, she's just been having some regrets," Rai stated.
"…Regrets?"
"The Director's been taking care of me, and in return, I've been managing the great barrier for him." Rubi explained. "But in the end I failed…I couldn't keep it in tact. And it was because of me…that Moka had to…"
"Come on, it wasn't your fault," Rai said. "No one blames you for what—"
"But it was! We can bring Moka back…the other Moka we all knew and loved."
"You do? Wait, why don't you tell Tsukune? If it's for Moka, he should hear this."
"I know, but you're the only one who can help him. He might need your power to save her."
"We can bring Moka back!?" Tsukune cried.
"Yep," Rai replied. "But there's a catch to it. So, listen up…"
The Next Day
The students began walking to school like every other morning. However, there were some expecting guests coming for a certain occasion.
"Hahaha," The woman chuckled. "Back for another visit because duty calls at Yokai Academy!"
"What was that?" The other woman spoke. "Did you say 'doodie and balls'?"
"No, you know that isn't what I said!" Ageha shouted in a burning furry.
"When you scream and shout like that, the crow's feet on your face really stand out," Tsurara said behind her ice barrier."
"Please," Ageha glistened. "My soft and supple skin? I defy you to point out a wrinkle. And look at these—my beautiful bouncing boobies."
"Milk cow," Tsurara uttered.
"What did you just say!?" Ageha shouted. Yukari's mother tried to break it off between them before things got out of hand.
"…!" she said.
"Eh, you're saying we should forget about this middle-aged snow hag and go to the future path session?" Ageha interpreted. Tsurara wasn't amused.
"…?...!?" Yukari's mother cried in disapproval.
"Well…" Tsurara interrupted. "My Mizore's 'future path' has already been well decided as of now."
"And what do you mean by that?" Ageha asked. Tsurara only grinned.
"Mama! Papa! Over this way!" Yukari called. The families walked over to Yukari, Mizore, and Kurumu waiting outside of Woodshop. There was Ageha, Tsurara and her husband with light blue hair and blue eyes like Mizore. He wore a gray kimono; nothing fancy. Next to them were Yukari's mother and father. They all stood well prepared for the career counseling at school.
"You guys sure got here early, didn't you?" Kurumu asked.
"The information session isn't until later this afternoon," Mizore announced.
"There's nothing wrong with being early," Tsurara said. "No time like the present…isn't that right, dear?"
"Huh?" Kurumu and Yukari were suspicious.
"Hey, what do you mean by that?" Ageha questioned.
"What do you think?" Tsurara explained. "It's time for my Mizore and that nice Tsukune boy to have their wedding." Everyone was silent…until…
Everyone: "To have their wedding!?"
"Now wait a sec," Yukari stopped for a moment. "By wedding, do mean that you and Tsukune are getting married!?"
"Mizore!" Kurumu fired out. "What kind of crazy bullshit is your mom talking about, huh!?"
"Last night, Mother and I came to a decision on the phone," Mizore answered. "We couldn't just let Tsukune go on like that. We need to do something to get him out of his funk…and this is the best way."
"The best way—!?" Kurumu grew furious. "Who are you to decide!?"
"Listen, I know what I'm doing." Kurumu began to tremble. "In my own way, I'm trying to think of what's best for Tsukune."
"We've worked everything out," Tsurara added. "Once Tsukune graduates from Yokai Academy, he'll live with us in our village and be accepted as Mizore's fiancé."
"That's insane…!" Kurumu clenched her fist. "In that case, I'll marry Tsukune as well."
"What!?" Yukari shrieked. "Not you too, Kurumu…!" The students were starting to gather near the performance.
"I have to!" Kurumu pointed out. "Only one of us can cheer Tsukune up…and that person is me!"
"And what makes you think it's you?" Mizore asked.
"Because I've been there. You've got nothing on me. I've wanted Tsukune from the very beginning. I mean…there've been times when I thought I could never top the other Moka in his eyes…and now that Moka is gone for good. Right now I'm the best one left!"
"Now that's the way to stand up for yourself, Kurumu!" Ageha praised her. "I just knew my daughter had it in her."
"Do you really think…?" Tsurara summoned a snowstorm, "…I'll just let you get away with that!?"
"It's not a question of 'let'—the one who wins is gonna walk away with Tsukune as the prize!" Ageha drew out her claws." Yukari didn't know how to handle the situation. A broom swished out in front of her. "Mama—!" Yukari's mother held out her broom in a stance for battle. "What are you doing!?"
"…!"
"Huh? You're saying you're ready to fight to protect my claim to Tsukune…?" she nodded. "Please, stop all this!" The fathers sighed at their wives becoming highly over competitive. "Did anyone ask what Tsukune wants!? We can't just decide without even asking him…!"
"You know what," Ageha spoke out, "She's absolutely right. We should just go ask Tsukune directly, shouldn't we?"
"We all know who he's going to pick, don't we?" Tsurara said with confidence. They both rushed into the classroom to locate their son-in-law.
"Tsukune-wune ~!" Ageha spoke in a charming voice. "This is your future mommy dearest calling you ~!"
"Here's your future mother-in-law," Tsurara chanted. He didn't look to be in class, and neither did the teacher for that matter. They popped in and out of the sea of students to find Tsukune. They called out to him like a lost pet.
"Miss Kokoa! Miss Kokoa!" Ko flew into the classroom. "Big trouble, wee! Mr. Ortega took Tsukune Aono out of school and—!" Ageha's claws trapped Ko like a rat in a cage. In Tsurara's hands, a mallet made of ice formed from her summoned snow.
"Start talking, bat!" Ageha ordered with bloodthirsty eyes. "What do you know about Tsukune?"
"You better tell us…" Tsurara ordered with piercing white eyes. "…or I'll turn you into a block of ice and smash you into tiny bits with this hammer, you understand!"
"No-no-no-no-no-no-no-no…no, wee—!"
Tsukune clutched the brakes on his bike. Rai gripped onto the handles as he rested his feet on the pedals. Jolt sat in Rai's basket. "You ready, dude?" Rai asked.
"Okay," Tsukune answered. They both took off on their bikes. Rai steered while partially standing over his bike seat. Tsukune rested on the seat as he biked.
"Man, who knew so many students had bikes at this school," Rai confirmed. Just up ahead, a person was standing by a tree along the side of the road.
"Pika!" Jolt pointed to her. Rai and Tsukune squeezed the brakes as they came to a stop. Rai stood over his bike ready to continue while Tsukune got off. Moka walked over to them.
"Where do you think you two are going?" she asked.
"Oh, you know, just out for a ride," Rai scratched the back of his head.
"I…I just…," Tsukune stuttered.
"You're supposed to be at the information session now," Moka enforced. "Tsukune, after that we have our Newspaper Club meeting. I thought…maybe you and I could walk to the clubroom together today."
"But, Moka—I…" Tsukune tried to get a word in.
"Oh, that's right," Moka added, "Since we're on that subject, I had a new idea for the newspaper. Maybe you could give me your opinion on it, Tsukune."
"Moka…I can't go with you today." Tsukune looked to the ground.
"Am I not good enough for you…tell me the truth," Moka asked.
"…Awkward," Rai whispered.
"I'm sorry, Moka!" Tsukune cried, "I have to go!" He jumped back on his back and pedaled fast.
"Don't worry, he'll be back," Rai went after him. Moka stood with a saddened look on her face.
"…So I guess that's good-bye then, isn't it?" Moka said in a sorrowful voice. The two rode onward down the path.
"The Three Dark Lords?" Tsukune asked.
"Yeah," Rai answered. "Turns out they're an elite group of super monsters that set up this school. One of those guys made the rosary to keep the barrier up. And by the look of it, he fixed one exactly like Moka's."
"So, if I find that Dark Lord…!"
"You'll find a way to bring back Ms. Bubble gum."
"Where can I find him? Tell me!"
"Easy there, Johnny Blaze. He's gonna be by the northern barrier. Rubi says anyone who tries to get near his castle ends up sleeping with the fishes. You're not going without me."
"You are? but why?"
"Let's just say I have some business with him."
It doesn't matter, Tsukune thought to himself. If there's even a slight chance I'll be able to see Moka again…The two ventured over by the bus stop that resembled a scarecrow with a jack-o-lantern for a head and a black cape draped around its neck. The bus driver leaned against his bus with his blue uniform, white gloves and hat. He smoked a cigar that fumed past his glowing eyes.
"Whoa, you two sure seem to be in a hurry," he said.
"Yeah, we are," Tsukune answered.
"You wouldn't happen to know how to get to the northern barrier, would you?" Rai asked.
"Pika Pika?" Jolt asked.
"If you'd like to, I can give ya a lift," he offered.
"No…this time, I'm on my own. This is my journey," Tsukune declared. Rai and Jolt looked at each other. They smiled.
"You heard the kid," Rai added.
"Suit yourselves," The bus driver pointed his cigar at the tunnel, "If you want to get to the northern barrier, turn left at the cross inside the tunnel and go from there. Good luck, you got a long road ahead of you."
"Thank you very much" Tsukune acknowledged him.
"See ya later," Rai waved back as they went straight for the passageway.
"Hey kid," The bus driver shouted to Tsukune. "After all you went through at this school, did you ever regret coming here?" Tsukune turned to him.
"No, not a bit!" he yelled.
"Next stop, Northern Castle!" Rai biked ahead of Tsukune.
"Good answer, kid," the bus driver smiled. He lit his cigar. "Still…the real question is if they can make it back from that castle alive." Rai and Tsukune rode on through the tunnel. The walls reverberated with magical colors the deeper they entered inside.
Resting atop the hill was Kokoa and her small bat partner. They stared down at the entrance to the tunnel. "Kill me now, wee," Ko wailed in pain and agony. "Really, kill me." Kokoa prepared to ride her orange bike.
"There's no way in hell I'm gonna let you ruin everything, Tsukune," said Kokoa. "Not while I'm still breathing."
The tunnel shined with every vibrant color of the rainbow. "Man, are we ever gonna get to this place?" Tsukune asked.
"It should be just ahead, not much farther now," Rai answered. A light started to shine ahead of them. Once they passed through, they arrived at the exit. From a distance, they could see the large castle with its tall towers and daggers on the roofing. "There it is!"
"Pikachu!" Jolt cheered. From out of nowhere a swarm of bats attacked the two from the sky. They looked like an army of Kos. "Wee-hee-hee-hee!" Ko laughed, "This is as far as you're gonna get guys, wee!"
"Get away! Get off of me!" Tsukune yelled.
"Damn it!" Rai shouted. "Move it!"
"Pika…" Jolt charged up its power.
"If you think this is gonna stop me, then you've got another thing coming because I'll get her back; no matter what!" His eyes shifted red.
"What's going on?" Ko asked with sudden fear. "How did your eyes just change colors—!?" Tsukune head-butted him into a long flight. "Ooooooh Shiiiiiiiiiiiit—!" A small purple bat with a red bow went flying after him.
"Ko, my darling, come back—!" The rest of the bats began to fly away.
"The hell?" Rai asked. "Why'd they just take off?"
"It doesn't matter—we gotta keep going!" Tsukune went ahead.
"Pika?" Jolt canceled his attack. They continued on to the castle. From behind a tree, Kokoa was watching the two move on. "Hey, what was that Ko-buddy!?" Kokoa said with displease. "Here I give you the perfect chance to flap your stuff and you blow it! It looks like I'll have to do it myself!"
"Tsukune ~!" a voice called out. Kokoa turned around.
"Huh?" Tsurara and her group of snow women began charging after the two. They had the same clothing as Tsurara along with the same hair color and skin. However, their hair was cut much shorter. Kokoa was in their way.
Boop!
She went flying. "Ooooooh shiiiiiiiit—!"
"Now I know why they call it the 'n-northern' barrier—my ass is f-frozen solid," Rai shivered. Jolt's teeth began chattering from the cold.
"Speaking of cold, freeze right there Tsukune!" Tsurara called out. Rai and Tsukune were blasted by a gust of snow. They stopped in front of the snow women army.
"Mrs. Shirayuki!?" Tsukune was surprised to see her.
"Please, you don't have to be so formal with me," Tsurara blushed. "Why don't you just call me your little snow-bunny?"
"Well...we'd love to stay and chat," Rai interrupted, "but we should really be going now." The snow women began chanting.
"Hyooloolee ~ Hyooloolee laa laa ~"
"Pika?"
Whoosh!
A giant snow tornado appeared underneath Tsukune. He went flying up in the air. From behind Rai, A giant abominable snowman tackled him to the ground. The creature had white fur and blue eyes with massive arms for crushing. The two bikes piled against each other. The beast raised its massive fists and tore apart the frames and tires. The creature grabbed Tsukune in a tight bear hug.
"Get your paws off me, you damn, dirty yeti!" Tsukune rustled in his arms to break free.
"Hold on, Tsukune," Rai rose from the ground. Ice pillars shot from the ground and covered Rai in every angle. Jolt's cheeks filled with static.
"Chu!" Jolt shot a lightning bolt at the Yeti. His bolt shifted directions and went into the spikes surrounding Rai. "Pika?"
"We know very well what kind of creature you are," Tsurara smiled. From above, an ice cage dropped on Jolt and trapped it like a dog in a carrier.
"Pika Pi!" Jolt cried.
"How did you know about Jolt?" Rai asked. An ice spike was rubbing against his throat.
"I always keep in touch with my daughter," Tsurara replied. "I know very well about your little pet and your skills, Mr. Ortega." She turned over to Tsukune. "Well, we should get going. After all, the wedding preparations have begun back at the village."
"Huh, who's wedding?" Tsukune asked.
"Why, you're going to marry Mizore!" Tsurara answered.
"What is it with these moms and marriage?" Rai asked.
"Congratulations on your wedding day!" the snow women chanted.
"Now…wait…please stop!" Tsukune struggled.
"Mother! Father!" Mizore shouted. "Let them go!" Giant ice spikes rained down on the commotion. The ice blasted away the pillars surrounding Rai, the cage trapping Jolt, and the Yeti holding onto Tsukune.
"What are you doing!?" Tsurara yelled out. From the cloud of dust, Mizore stood protecting the group.
"Mizore!?" said Tsukune.
"Hey, nice entrance," Rai added.
"You heard what I said," Mizore enforced, "Let them go now, Mother."
"Mizore, dear…" Tsurara smiled. "…Are you trying to tell your father and me you're giving up on your dream to be Tsukune's wife?"
"No, I haven't given up on anything at all. It's just that…"
"It's just what, dear?"
"If Tsukune says he wants to go to that castle…it's my wifely duty to put my life on the line to protect his right to do that!"
"You're willing to do that, Mizore?" Tsukune asked. They both blushed.
"Wifely duties, eh?" Rai nudged at him.
"That's the kind of spirit I like to see, Mizore," Tsurara answered. "However, dear, if you let Tsukune go to that castle, that vampire will be in your way again."
"Don't you have any faith in me?" Mizore asked.
"What do you mean?"
"Who cares if the other Moka comes back into play? I'll just do what I've always planned on doing Mother, and that's fighting fair and square for the honor of being Tsukune's wife!" Tsurara's mouth opened as her lollipop fell out of her mouth.
"Look, I hate to tell you this, but this wedding isn't just a question of what you want anymore. The future of the snow woman line now depends on this wedding taking place."
"Pika?" Jolt asked.
"Repopulating a species going extinct," Rai explained. "This is somewhat of a big deal." The snow women all encircled the group.
"If that's the case, then I'll fight you on this, Mother!" Mizore raised her arm.
"Mizore, do really think you can defeat me?" Tsurara asked. "With every snow woman in our tribe backing me up…?"
"Hyooloolee ~ Hyooloolee laa laa ~" The women summoned another blizzard to push back everyone.
"Magic Wand: Golden Washtubs!" Yukari cried out. Three washtubs fell on the heads of three snow women and knocked them…out cold. "Hey, Mizore! I'm gonna win it the same way!" Yukari was biking along with her parents in a three seater.
"Yukari!?" Tsukune was baffled.
"Kid!" Rai said with surprise.
"Pikachu!" Jolt cheered.
"Besides, I want to see the other Moka again too!" Yukari smiled. "You better hurry up and get to that castle, guys!"
"I'll let hell freeze over before I let that happen!" Tsurara declared.
"Hyooloolee ~ Hyooloolee laa laa ~" The storm was summoned once more.
"Magic Wand: Spinning Washtub Volley…Go!" Yukari chanted. However…
"^-^" Yukari's mother raised her wand.
"Mama—!" From the sky, a washtub meteor shower came firing down and clouding the area.
"When it starts raining bathroom appliances, it's time to get moving!" Rai shouted.
"Go, now's your chance!" Yukari yelled.
"Right!" Tsukune replied. He, Rai, and Jolt went running off to the castle.
"Hold it right there!" Tsurara commanded. She called out a row of sharp pillars.
"You're the one who needs to hold it, Mother!" Mizore insisted. She stood in her path as she drew out her ice blades.
"Are you really raising a hand against your own mother? Well…are you, Mizore?"
"…If that's what it's gonna take, then yes."
"Really?" Tsurara summoned her blades.
"It's on—!" The mother and daughter went into battle.
"Almost there…!" Tsukune huffed as he ran.
"I can see the entrance to the castle…!" Rai pointed out.
"Pika!?" Jolt came to a screeching halt. The guys both stopped to look at the bridge in front of them. The wooden planks helped provide the surface, but the edging and mechanics made up the support. Thanks to that, the bridge was disconnected and there was a massive gap between the castle and the trio. Below them, a bottomless moat surrounded the outer walls of the castle. Falling in could result in one's death, or fatal return.
"Crap…how do we cross this…?" Tsukune asked.
"You can try jumping it if you want," Rai joked.
"I ~found ~you!" A voice appeared overhead. Rai was grabbed by the neck and pressed against something…bouncy.
"Aw shit, not again," Rai murmured.
"I can't believe we get to meet again ~!" Ageha held onto Rai. "Why don't we both try to work things out with Kurumu and have your wedding, right away?"
"Wait, no!" Rai tried to break her hold, but she started lifting him into the sky.
"What is it with all these wedding plans today?" Tsukune wondered.
"That's what I said!" Rai shouted back.
"Pika…" Jolt sweat dropped.
"Or if you'd rather, we can make that wedding between you and me, instead ~," Ageha squeezed him tight.
"I don't think I'm ready for that kind of commitment!"
"But my beautiful body can be all yours ~!"
"Can we stop this!?"
"And who says we have to? If it's what you want, you can bring as many pretty girls into our bedroom anytime you want ~."
"…Oh god…" Rai tried to keep his focus, "I can't think about that right now!" Kurumu was surprised by his will to resist.
"Oh? Well, if that won't work, then my succubus powers will. No man can resist them or my womanly charms." Ageha released an array of hypnosis on Rai. His eyes began to grow lazy as her power began to take him over.
"Let him go, Mom!" Kurumu shouted. "I can't believe I'm doing this!" She slammed head first into Ageha. She dropped Rai as she started falling into the chasm.
"I'm your mother!" she cried out.
"Fuck! Fuck! Fuck! Fuck! Fuck!" Rai shouted as he descended.
Splash!
Rai landed in the fountain inside the castle walls. "Is he alright?" Tsukune asked.
"Pika pi," Jolt shrugged. From a distance, they saw Kurumu zooming in at high speed.
"Tsukune!" she yelled. "When I fly by, grab onto me!" Tsukune followed the order and raised his arms. Jolt latched onto his leg. Kurumu zipped by and grabbed onto Tsukune. She pulled him into the air. "Whew."
Grope!
"Oh! Tsukune, I like you're way of saying thanks!" Tsukune held onto Kurumu from the waist as he stared at her skirt.
"Eh!?" Tsukune flustered. "I…I'm so sorry!"
"Pika Pika!" Jolt cried.
"Well…I don't really mind," Kurumu said with a little too much appreciation. "Actually, that'll have to wait." Kurumu took off faster toward the castle. Once inside the courtyard, Kurumu safely landed Tsukune near the entrance. Rai stepped out of the fountain; soaked from head to toe.
"I may be wet, but at least I'm not hitched," said Rai. "Thanks for the help."
"Don't mention it," Kurumu replied.
"Yeah, thanks for that back there," Tsukune added. Kurumu held her left arm.
"You know…" she said to Tsukune, "…ever since the other Moka's been gone, I've been feeling hopeful, like I was the front runner to become your girlfriend."
"Pika…" Jolt whispered.
"But…" Kurumu began tearing, "I was mistaken, wasn't I? Even though that Moka's not around…especially since she's not around, your feelings for her are stronger than ever. She's got a real hold on you." Tsukune didn't know what to say.
"…Listen, Kurumu—I'm so—!" Kurumu pointed a finger at him.
"Stop right there!" she said cheerfully. "If you say you're sorry right now, that'd mean it's all over for me! And besides that, out of all the other girls; I'm still the one who cares for you the most, Tsukune, and that's the honest truth!" Rai smiled.
"You have great determination, Kurumu," Rai said. "I just wish I've seen you like this more often, ha-ha." Kurumu huffed.
"Well, it's the only time you'll get to see it, so don't get cocky," Kurumu stated. "And Tsukune…don't forget what I said…I've felt like that the whole time I've known you, and I'll keep it that way, okay?"
"Kurumu…" Tsukune spoke out.
"Kurumu, dear!" Ageha called out. "Is that how you treat your own mother?" She started flying towards the group.
"Don't worry—I'll keep my mom busy here!" Kurumu drew out her claws. "Get inside the castle!"
"Uh—right!" Tsukune started off running.
"…And he runs off without even a second glance," Kurumu whispered. "Tsukune…"
"Pikachu!" Jolt jumped onto Kurumu's shoulder. "Pipipi!"
"Huh?"
"Come on, what happened to that enthusiasm?" Rai asked. "You said yourself it ain't over, right?" He gave her a thumb's up and started running to the doorway. Rai stopped at the front. "By the way…thanks for the meal…it needed more salt." He hurried on.
"…You're...the worst…" Kurumu began to cry. "Did you hear that…THE WORST!" Kurumu flapped her wings and soared off.
"Time for you to learn respect!" Ageha drew out her claws.
"Pika…CHU!" As the three collided, a massive explosion filled the sky. From the top balcony, a man held a rosary in his hand. He watched the battle ensue between the families of monsters. Meanwhile Rai and Tsukune searched for the stairs and reached for the deepest part of the castle. At one point, they made it to a long hallway lit with the sunlight peering through the windows. There was a large bronze door at the end of the room.
"Looks like we found him," Rai stated.
"Yeah, this is it," Tsukune reached for the handle.
"I wouldn't do that if I were you," Kokoa spoke from behind.
"Kokoa!?" Rai was stunned.
"But why…?" Tsukune asked.
"Tell me—you don't have the foggiest idea who lives here do you?" Kokoa asked.
"Yes, I do," Tsukune answered. "It's one of the Three Dark Lords."
"He's not just a Dark Lord," Kokoa informed. "He's—"
"Your Daddy," Rai interrupted. "Yeah, we get ya." Tsukune was taken by surprise.
"He's your father?" Tsukune assumed, "then that makes him Moka's father too!? It makes sense…that's where she got the rosary. I'll just go in and—!"
"You don't have a clue, don't you?" Kokoa stepped forward. "If you didn't know, my father positively hates humans. If you go in, he's going to kill you before you can even say boo."
"That's right, wee!" Ko popped out. "Miss Kokoa's daddy is bad news! He isn't just a vampire, but an S-class-Ultra-Super monster, wee!"
"If you wanna turn back, this is your last chance," Kokoa grinned.
"Thanks, that's very kind of you," Tsukune thanked her.
"Eh?" Kokoa didn't understand it.
"We would still be here even if we didn't know that," Rai added.
"And you're worried about us, that's so sweet," Tsukune smiled.
"What!" Kokoa cried. "Don't make me laugh, you creep! Hmph! As if I'd worry about you, anyway."
"However, I'm still going in," Tsukune walked to the door.
"Right behind you," Rai followed. "See ya, Kokoa."
"And thanks again," Tsukune opened the left door as Rai opened the right. They stepped into the dark room that awaited their fate. The door closed as they went in.
"Geez, what's going through that Peebrain's head!?" Kokoa said to herself. "Their walking into their own funeral!" She stopped for a moment. "Does he really love that lame Moka so much…?"
The Dark Lord gripped the rosary in his hand. He sat at the very end of the long aisle that led to his red velvet throne. There was nothing but pillars that helped keep the structure intact. This room looked to be over a thousand years old, but it still maintained the architecture like it was built yesterday. Rai and Tsukune could see the glimmer at the end of the hall. "Hey there, Dark Lord of the North!" Rai shouted to him.
"Um…excuse us…sir!" Tsukune called out. "You must be Moka Akashiya's father, right?" They noticed the rosary in his hand.
"I spy something shiny and religious," Rai whispered to Tsukune.
"The rosary!" Tsukune ran to him.
"Tsukune, hold on!" Rai shouted.
"Please, I'm in desperate need of one of those! Please, sir, can I have it?"
"…No…you cannot," the Dark Lord spoke as he curled his white hair by his forehead. "You filthy human scum…how dare you set foot in my castle without asking my permission first!?"
"Please, just hear me out!" Tsukune yelled.
"Don't do it!" Rai yelled.
"I said…LEAVE!" A strong force blasted Tsukune away. He was sent flying to the back wall.
CRASH!
Blood spattered out of his mouth. He fell forward onto the ground as he left a large crater in the wall.
"Holy Crap!" Ko cheered. "It really was before he could say boo, wee!"
"Why," Kokoa cringed, "Why didn't he listen to me?"
The Dark Lord stood out of his chair to rise. He had on his black suit with beige trim around his long sleeve shirt and with beige buttons. He wore a large black cap with red velvet hidden inside. A red ascot appeared out from underneath his shirt. His eyes and hair were as red and white as Moka's. This man was indeed a high class monster that they had never seen before. He only twiddled with his hair. "You didn't have to blast the guy!" Rai shouted.
"He should have heeded my instructions," Issa stated. He walked toward the two. "It was a mistake to give Moka that rosary to begin with. But to think some pathetic human filth like this…was somehow able to remove the rosary seal from my own daughter." He began walking back to his throne.
"Stop right there," Rai commanded. The Dark Lord stopped.
"A human like you…enforcing a monster like me to obey your will," he spoke. "You must be either very brave…or very foolish."
"Probably, but there's one problem with that, Count," Rai began slipping out his scythe.
"And what might that be," he asked.
"I've got a few tricks of my own!" Rai held out his scythe. "SOUL BREAKER!"
KABOOM!
A swirling tornado was summoned into the hall. The light that enshrouded Rai was as bright as the sun. The Dark Lord shrouded himself with his cloak to fend off the brightness. When the light subsided, Rai was now in hero mode. "It is clever to always save the best for last," Rai said.
"So…you are the new Celestial Reaper of this universe," Issa said with astonishment.
"It appears so," Rai replied. "If I were to assume also, you were the last to guard the Soul of Terror."
"…Yes…I was…but no longer."
"Then, where is it now?"
"As if I'd tell such a lowly-filth human like you," he continued his way to the throne.
"…Tell me," Tsukune whispered. He pushed against the pressure in his chest.
"So, you actually survived that?" Issa turned to Tsukune.
"Why is it…why do you hate humans so much?"
"Save your strength, Tsukune," Rai advised.
"…You of all people should know the answer to that question," the Dark Lord specified. "Your species is full of fear…and hatred. I know this first hand—I sent Moka to be schooled amongst humans for her own safety. But you people ostracized her."
"But that wasn't me—!" Tsukune shouted.
"You were no different. I knew when you first found out who she was, you feared my daughter. 'I don't need monsters for friends, anyway'. I wonder who it was who said that to here." He had nothing more to say. Tsukune only held in his own frustration.
"You're right—that's how I felt then," Tsukune uttered. "But now…"
"Now what…?" he asked.
"…Now—I love her! With all my—!"
"HOW DARE YOU!"
KABOOM!
The Dark Lord turned and created an explosion where Tsukune stood. Ko and Kokoa could hear the noise coming from the other room. They covered their ears against the terrifying fight. As the smoke disappeared, Rai stood in front of Tsukune as he took the major impact of the blast. "Our battle has only yet to begin." Rai summoned out his great sword. "Prepare yourself!" He charged in. Issa raised his arm and fired a laser straight at Ra. He pulled out his sword and sliced through the energy. As Rai and Issa collided, their growing aura collided.
KABOOM!
A giant pillar of energy forced itself out of the castle. The ray could be seen from across the land.
"What the heck was that?" Mizore asked.
"I remember this!" Yukari cried. "When we first met!"
"No way!" Kurumu cried. "Is that—!?"
"Pika!" Jolt shouted.
"You, Reapers, are no different than the humans," Issa confirmed. He and Rai stood at the rooftop of the tallest tower. "It's no surprise why there aren't any left."
"What do mean by that!" Rai asked.
"You hardly know anything about what you are, do you?"
"I know enough that I must defeat you!" Rai swung his sword at Issa.
Slice!
He quickly vanished out of sight. The roof began shifting and cut in two. The bricks and structure began falling to the ground below. Rai jumped and ran on the side of the tower. The wind rushed as he rushed down the steep wall. From the air, Issa was falling at the same speed as Rai. "Let us see how your skills match against mine," Issa retaliated. With his power, he controlled the falling roof before him. Each brick was thrown at Rai like flying bullets. Rai leapt away and fell to the courtyard. The bricks destroyed the remains of the tower. It crumbled into rubble as the bricks lay in a large mountain of debris. From atop the bricks, Issa took the spear and pointed it at Rai. "Is this the best you can do?" he asked.
"I have yet to use my full power," Rai answered.
"…So have I." Rai pulled out his blade. The sharp edge became enshrouded in flames.
"Pyro Assault!" Rai released dozens of slashes at Issa. With each cut, a blaze of fire flew right at him. Issa fended off the scorches. But, this created small bursts per hit. From the fumes, Rai rushed in and socked Issa to the front door. Rai gripped Issa by the collar and dragged him up the side of the main building. As they rushed upward, Issa's cape scorched and ripped. Rai tossed him ahead and tackled Issa through a glass window. They rolled into the bedroom with glass shards covering the floor.
"You fight with no purpose but to kill me?" Issa asked. "Truly, you are the monster!"
"No, you are," Rai replied. "How dare you take control of your own daughter's nature and craft it into something she isn't!" Issa released a giant beam of energy at Rai.
"She is my daughter, and I will do what I believe is right!"
WOOSH!
Rai ducked to the glass. He rammed into Issa and started forcing him through the castle walls.
CRASH!
They pelted through to the hall.
CRASH!
They pelted into the next bedding chamber.
CRASH!
The next hall.
CRASH!
The bathroom.
CRASH!
They arrived at the other end of the castle barrier. Rai and Issa were now in a free fall to the ground below. At the last moment, Issa grabbed Rai and moved him below. With his arms, he summoned an extreme force to crash him into the dirt. With the strongest of his power, he fired an insane burst of light at the crater.
BAM!
Smoke emitted from the hole where Rai laid. Issa stood on the arch of the crater. "…So…it ends here," Issa whispered.
POW!
Rai came bursting out of the smoldering bowl and started bashing his way against Issa. He grabbed his cape and threw him down into his castle. Issa pierced right through the roofing until he crashed down into the chamber. Rai summoned forth his sword and began calling his power. "WILDFIRE SLAYER!" As Rai swung his sword down, a large tornado of flames engulfed Issa. The fires breathed out of the windows of the castle. The structure began to crumble from the extreme heat and pressure. The center building started to cave in on itself.
"This castle is starting to fall apart, Ms. Kokoa, wee!" Ko cried in panic. Kokoa ran from the falling debris as Ko followed behind.
"I know!" Kokoa shouted back. "We gotta stop him before he gets himself killed!" The ceiling started falling down on them. "KYAAAAAAAAAA!" A silver figure snatched her and rushed her out through the window.
"You shall not defeat me!" Issa shouted. He bombarded Rai with blasts of blue energy spheres on top of him. Rai swatted them away with his sword.
"My purpose is not to win," Rai confirmed. "My duty was to protect the boy so he may obtain the rosary." Tsukune rode on Rai's back. The blood rushed down from his forehead.
"I WILL NOT HAND HER OVER TO THE LIKES OF HIM!" Issa shouted. "MOKA IS MY DAUGHTER…AND I WILL PROTECT HER AS I SEE FIT!"
"I know she's your daughter," Tsukune got off Rai. "I get it…you love her…but still, Moka has the right to—!"
"Do what she wants!?" Issa yelled. He threw Rai and Tsukune into a bend and twisted chandelier lying on the ground. "Not with you; you piece of human garbage!" Rai broke them out of the tangled metal. He stood ready to strike, but Tsukune grabbed his arm. He moved him away and started walking forward.
"But she…" Tsukune clenched his rib, "….made a promise to me."
"A promise…?" Issa asked. Rai helped Tsukune from falling over.
"It's true…before she sacrificed herself to save the lives of many," Rai added.
"That's why I came to your damn castle!" Tsukune shouted. "To get my Moka back!"
"You weren't listening, were you?" Issa grew infuriated. "The 'other' Moka that you saw on the surface and that you're trying to 'bring back' now, is nothing more than a phantom personality brought out by the action of my seal!"
"You're wrong!" Tsukune answered.
"I'm not, human! The girl you've fallen in love is a mere phantom, and you're a fool caught in its thrall!"
"DAMN YOU!" Tsukune was angrier than he had ever been. "That's your daughter you're talking about! How can you call here a 'phantom'!?" A menacing aura radiated from Tsukune's body. His eyes changed to the color red. Issa was shocked to see this. Tsukune continued to walk forward. "What I had with Moka—what we shared was real!"
"He's become stronger," Rai noticed, "I can see his rush of energy rising."
"That's right—my daughter gave you some of her blood," Issa recalled. "That's where this strange power is coming from."
"Even if she has two souls within her…the hand I touched was the same hand!" Tsukune concluded. "And I know for a fact…the Moka I touched was no phantom! I care about both Mokas! And I don't want to be without either one!" His monster energy soared as his shirt was ripped off.
"Have it your way—but both Moka's are my daughters!" Issa declared. His monster energy met at the same level as Tsukune's. "And you will not march into this castle and steal them from me because you have powers!" Issa fired a massive beam at the two. Rai ran in and sliced apart the blast. The monster energy from Issa was met with Rai's yellow aura. Issa held against Rai's sword as he tried to pierce through his barrier.
"Tsukune!" Rai called out. "Take this chance! Get that cross!" At lightning speed, Tsukune jumped behind Rai and pushed against Issa's barrier from above.
"My daughter's love is a precious thing!" Issa stated. "And I won't allow it to be wasted on lowly scum like you!" The power flew any debris nearby into a windstorm.
"Moka and I care for one another!" Tsukune shouted. "And it's no less than the love you feel! Not one bit—do you hear me!" Tsukune reached out for the rosary.
"DO IT!" Rai shouted. He pushed with as much force as he could.
"GIVE ME THAT ROSARY!" Tsukune commanded. "GIVE ME BACK MY MOKA!" In the sunlight, Issa saw someone very precious to her.
Snatch!
Tsukune and Rai paused for a second.
Boom!
With a forceful push, Rai and Tsukune were sent sliding back a few yards. Rai retracted his footing, while someone grabbed onto Tsukune.
"What do you say we leave it at this, for now," Moka suggested. "Enough, Father."
"Enough what, Moka?" Issa asked.
"You really didn't have to put on this show just for me."
"This man wasn't even using his full potential?" Rai asked. "Not very sporting."
"If he were serious about you, he would've stopped your heart with the very first blow and be done with it. As for the showdown…" Moka turned to her father, "I'd have to say Tsukune beat you fair and square." Issa looked over to see Tsukune holding the rosary in his hand.
"Look, Moka…I did it," Tsukune whispered, "I got it…"
"When did he snag that?" Issa asked.
"Not too shabby for a worthless so called human, now is it?" Moka smiled.
"I couldn't have agreed with you more," Rai patted Tsukune on the back (with a little too much effort). With a bright light, Rai returned to his normal form. "Although my money was kind of on Count Dracula."
"I guess not," Issa agreed. "…but are you okay with this? You'll have to live as the inner face of that other girl again."
"The decision isn't mine to make," Moka held the rosary. "I'm leaving it to someone else."
"…As long as that's what you want. I suppose you're old enough to make your own decisions, now. Very well then…take that rosary and do what you will with it, Tsukune Aono. However, don't assume that means I'm giving you my daughter's hand."
"Alright, I'm next," Rai interrupted. He stepped forward. "…I need to know…" Issa and Rai exchanged glances.
"…Very well," Issa spoke. "For years, Celestial Reapers had brought peace and balance to the many lands and distant stars throughout our world. But…they have long been extinct."
"What do mean…extinct?" Rai asked.
"These souls used to preserve such power to maintain the order…is nothing more than a lie." Rai stood silent. "The reason for their disappearance was because of their selfish notion to obtain control of the souls so they can rule the universe and take it over. They fought amongst one another to claim victory. However, one hero managed to end the chaos. He released them across the galaxy and preserved them to those worthy of keeping it safe. For decades, there have been no signs of their return…until now."
"So…I'm…the only one left?" Issa nodded.
"If you have been chosen, then it's possible that our world might be in its darkest hour."
"I've never heard of this before," said Moka.
"You were merely children, and we vowed to not have you get involved with activity outside of our jurisdiction."
"So, what about the Soul of Terror?" Rai asked.
"The soul you wish to find isn't here in this castle." Issa informed. "We passed upon the protection to the royal family. The ones who pledge to maintain the mutual agreements between the monsters and the humans. I still loathe the decision made, but it has been since in their care."
"Any idea where I can find them?"
"The rumors passed down are that the eldest daughter is residing in a small town in the east. She will know where it is being held." Issa turned and began walking away. "Although you are a reaper, you still are but a simple human. You'll do well to remember this." He evaporated into a blue light.
"He never changes, does he?" Moka smiled. "Same old Father."
"I guess that means…" Tsukune and Moka inched closer together.
"Oh, no way!" Kokoa shouted. From behind, she rolled in and grabbed the rosary from Tsukune. "Yoink!" she kneeled in front of the three. "If you put this on my big sis, you're gonna turn her into a total wuss again!" Tsukune and Kokoa began to tussle over the rosary.
"Watch where you're grabbing Miss Kokoa, wee," Ko pointed out.
"You two should have this conversation outside before it's too late," Moka suggested. The entire castle began to fall apart.
"I may have overdone with my fight, huh?" Rai asked.
"WHAAAAAT!" Tsukune yelled.
"No!" Kokoa cried. "Don't take my rosary!"
The castle was now a smoldering pile of destroyed stones. From the wreckage, Kurumu, Yukari, Jolt, and Mizore stared at the mess around them. Their clothes and hair were a mess after finally defeating their families.
"Whoa, what the heck happened here?" Kurumu asked.
"Yeah, it's trash," Mizore added.
"Looks like this entire place got leveled," said Yukari.
"Pikachu," Jolt looked ahead to see Moka and Tsukune talking amongst each other. Rai turned and walked over to the girls.
"Glad to see you all made it," Rai smiled.
"Did you do all this?" Kurumu asked.
"Well, I may have gone a little overboard and probably wiped out the support beams keeping this place up." The girls sweat dropped. "As for those two, I think Tsukune needs to do some explaining." They all listened in on their conversation.
"So, you finally got a hold of it, huh?" Moka asked. Tsukune looked down on the cross in his hand. "So, shall we pick up from where we left off last time? What are you gonna do with that rosary now that you have it?"
"Well, you see…" Tsukune wasn't too sure.
"…Prefer her to me?" Moka interrupted. "Are going to choose the other Moka, then?"
"No, Tsukune!" Kurumu jumped onto Tsukune's back. "You can't pick one of the Moka's over me!"
"Come on!" Yukari cried. "You have to choose me, instead!"
"Sorry, but he's going to pick me," Mizore smiled.
"Moka, listen!" Tsukune called out. "And everyone else, too…!"
"What is it?" Moka asked.
"I need you to understand something," Tsukune explained. "I'm just not there yet. Picking one of you is something I'm not able to do right now. And that's why...I couldn't bear the thought of never seeing the other Moka again. It's like…before I could think about picking someone…without her it felt like…like I couldn't make any decisions about my future. When I heard about the future paths session at school…that's when I made up my mind. I had to see her…I needed the other Moka again before I could know for sure. Before I could know what I really felt. Before I could know what I really want to do from now on. That's the honest truth and that's how I feel."
"…Sounds like an excuse to me," Moka bared her fangs.
"Oh boy," Rai murmured.
"Wait-what!" Tsukune replied.
"So you can keep stringing us all along," Moka was pissed. "Just who hell do you think you are, anyway?!" Her eyes grew sharp.
"No wait, Moka please!" Tsukune was getting worried. "I'm being totally honest, I swear!"
"Regardless," She went in for an upward kick, "It's time you learn your place!" Tsukune was beaten with a high kick to the face.
"Ehhhh!?" Everyone else watched with surprise. Tsukune went flying.
"Ooooooh shiiiiiiiit—!" From the rubble of the castle, Kokoa managed to pull her head out.
"Whew," she sighed.
Bonk!
She fell to the side as Tsukune bumped into her. He now lay in her spot. "Pleas, believe me, Moka—I learned my place now." He fainted.
"Regardless, I have gotten a little bored looking like this all the time," said Moka. "Before I go, I wanna do it with you at least once."
"It!?" Tsukune panicked. "You don't mean—!?" She jumped on top of him.
"Oh come on, now…you didn't really expect me to keep on waiting forever ~."
"Oh—so that's what she meant," said Rai. "Whew, here I thought things were going to get physical—"
Capu Chu!
"Oh crap!" Tsukune cried, "That hurts more than usual!" A radiant light began enveloping Moka. She latched the rosary onto her choker.
"See ya round, okay Tsukune?" Moka winked. In her place, the pink haired vampire returned.
"Moka…" Tsukune whispered.
"Tsukune..." Moka turned to him.
"Moka."
"Tsukune."
"The two of you staring at each other is making me sick!" Yukari yelled out.
"It's really getting annoying," Mizore added.
"If you're gonna hug each other, just get on with it and hug already!" Kurumu yelled.
"Let's go, Lover boy," Rai pushed Tsukune from behind. He started running after Moka. As Moka did the same. They both held each other in their arms.
"Pika pika," Jolt wiped his tears with his tail.
"I'm…only letting them do this because they haven't seen each other in a long time…," Kurumu wept. "Waaaa!"
"There, there, Kurumu," Yukari comforted her. "It'll be alright." Mizore sniffled. As Rai watched the happy ending, he started thinking about what Issa said to him.
"These souls used to preserve such power to maintain the order…is nothing more than a lie. The reason for their disappearance was because of their selfish notion to obtain control of the souls so they can rule the universe and take it over."
"Why doesn't her story match his?" Rai asked himself. When he looked back up, he could see Moka going back to eating Tsukune's blood.
"Hey! Quit it! Moka—!" Kurumu shouted.
"You're sucking way too much blood from Tsukune!"
"Look at him!" Mizore added. "He looks like beef jerky!"
"Man, this place has been one heck of an adventure," Rai grinned. Jolt hopped onto his back.
"Pikachu!" Jolt cheered.
"Well, whatever comes next; let's just hope it was as much fun as this." They went back to watching the girls bicker with one another. One the other side of the wreckage, he could see Kokoa receiving her 'punishment' from her father. "Yep, gonna miss all this."
Honk!
"Hi, everyone ~!" Miss Nekonome shouted from the bus. "Thank goodness everyone seems okay, meow ~!"
"It's a long story, but we finally managed to capture and subdue all the parents," Rubi walked in with her police uniform. "I hope they learned their lesson." Tsurara, Ageha, the Yeti, and the snow women were all tied together. Surprisingly, Yukari's parents were the only ones free.
"Alright, everyone! Let's all head back to Yokai Academy!" Miss Nekonome cheered.
"Okay!" Everyone agreed. As everyone jumped on the bus, a letter slipped out from Rubi's Jacket. Kurumu picked it up.
The Next Day…
"Attention, everyone ~," Miss Nekonome announced to the class. "We have some important news to discuss. As it turns out, we will no longer be having Woodshop as a class for the rest of the semester." Everyone was now whispering. "Mr. Ortega had recently resigned his post for personal reasons. So, let's all continue our hard work and keep on trying!" Tsukune and the girls all looked to each other. They then turned to the empty seat nearby.
"It seems you were right about him," the Director said to his visitor. "Not only has he proven his skills and talent, but strength against a Dark Lord."
"I told you he has a brave heart," a womanly voice spoke out. "I know he can help protect others, even if it puts his life on the line."
"…What made you choose him of all people?"
"Because," Novena removed her cloak, "There's no one I'd rather put my trust in than him." She blushed.
The bus left the tunnel. The fields of grass swayed in the wind from both sides of the road. "So, you know where you're going, right?" The bus driver asked.
"Eh, somewhat," Rai answered. "I need to head east to find the royal family."
"If that's the case, then you'll find her in a small town. You can take the train up ahead." In the distance, train tracks were seen beside the moving bus. They stretched out to the small station just up ahead. "It's gonna have to make a stop in Inaba, so you'll have to change trains from there." The bus passed through into the small town. It came to a complete stop at the steps leading to the station. The doors opened. Rai and Jolt walked off the bus.
"Thanks for the lift," Rai waved to him. Jolt jumped onto his shoulder.
"Good luck," he shut the doors and drove off. "You're gonna need it, Reaper. Especially after all the stories that happened in that town."
Rai bought the tickets and made his way to the walkway. Once the doors separated, they stepped inside. When the engines roared, the train began moving. The speed began to pick up. There were no other passengers besides Jolt and Rai. "Pika!" Jolt cheered as he stared out the window. Rai placed his scythe on the upper storage above his seat.
"Alright, Jolt." Rai informed him. "It's going to be a long trip, so it's time for me to get some shuteye." Rai cozied himself on his bench and readied himself for a good rest. Just before passing out, he felt something brush up against his face. This made his nose itch.
"…Jolt, can you move your tail?" Rai asked. His nose continued to itch. "Jolt, I said…" When Rai opened his eyes, he could see Jolt was sitting in the seat in front of him.
"Pika?" Jolt asked.
"What the?" Rai turned to his right. The girl waved to him. "The hell are you doing here!?"
"You're looking at your new recruit, Mr. Ortega," she answered. "Ya-hoo-hoo!"
-To Be Continued-
The journey continues on as the team gains a new ally into battle! The search for the next soul continues, things are only going to get tougher with more bad guys and enemies around every corner! In a nutshell, all the material used in this part of the story and characters used belong to their respective owners. Leave a comment and review on your ideas and opinions! Man, I haven't seen anything on TV for a while. I wonder what's on.
*Click*
[Next Scent]
Rai: What do you think you're doing here!?
Kurumu: I don't need your permission to be here, you got that!?
Jolt: Pika Pi?
? : If we find something, we'll let you know right away.
Rai: Kurumu, where are you!?
? : You don't have a clue where she is, do you?
[Who Can You Trust?]
[To Be Next]
*Click*
…That was trippy.