The analog clock on the wall continued it's repetition of ticks and tocks that seemed to ring in quiet room. It was the last class of the day and it couldn't be any slower for Rikuo. Their teacher assigned the last 20 minutes of class to be used for the work she gave out after completing her lesson and, if the students couldn't finish it after the 20 minutes it was to be homework. Being a good student Rikuo had finished the assignment five minutes ago, with a bit of difficulty. The class, instead of doing their work, ending up talking to their friends and were loud. But, they weren't loud enough for the teacher to get annoyed and quiet them down. All the ruckus distracted him from his work and, it was hard to not listen in on some of the more juicy stories.

Did you hear that Hana made cheer leading?

What? But she's so fat! She can't tumble worth a shit!

I saw my ex with some slut at the pool yesterday, can you believe him!

That jerk! He'll never find anyone as good as you!

I ran into a trash can yesterday on my bike. It was so worth it, I got some babes attention.

Nice! Did you get their numbers?

Hell yeah I did!

Hey, apparently that Sprayer dude didn't finish his picture!

Sprayer?

Dude, where have you been! He's that famous spray-painter!

Oh! That graffiti artist...?

Never taking his eyes off the clock, Rikuo remained impassive but felt some-what insulted. It was true, he was a graffiti artist since he did paint on the walls of buildings; them being abandoned had little relevance. It was the negative stigma that came with the title graffiti artist, as most wrote in bubbled letters or insults. He didn't write in bubble letters with tacky neon colors, nor did he write slurs with poorly draw pictures and hand-writing. No, he was an artist. He sprayed beautiful pictures of cherry blossom trees, of space, forests, grand kingdoms and pictures of the city itself. Rikuo was one of those artist, that used graffiti for advertising or political revelation.

His tangent of self-defense was interrupted when the final bell rang, signaling the end of the school day. Pushing his chair out, Rikuo grabbed his book bag off the chair and made way to the back of the room, where his duffel bag of clothes was located. As he was walking towards the door to get out of class, he was greeted by his friends who were waiting in the hallway.

"RIKUUUUOOOOOO!" came the boisterous yell of the group's self-proclaimed leader Kiyotsugu. Said leader stalked up to the shorter male, and immediately invaded Rikuo's personal space.

"Y-yes, Kiyotsugu?" Rikuo enquired somewhat awkwardly, taking a step back from the over zealous teen in front of him.

"Did you hear? Did you?" Kiyotsugu asked hastily.

"About what" Rikuo asked, trying to gain some clarification.

"About the Sprayer," Jiro said before Kiyotsugu could respond. "He apparently didn't finish his graffiti!"

While Rikuo was some what upset that he wasn't able to finish his art, he couldn't understand why it was such a big deal to everyone else. He voiced his thoughts to his friends, and not surprisingly it was Kiyotsugu that answered him with enthusiasm.

"Because, that means the Sprayer was almost caught! This was first time in the four years that the Sprayer didn't finish a painting! I'm sure Nura Gumi is having a ball right now! It's only a matter of time before he gets caught!"

"Um...Kiyotsugu, aren't you the one that's been saying that the Sprayer, was just a plot the Nura family came up with to gain more popularity? And to squash down ideas of them being part of the underworld?" Saori spoke up, somewhat confused at the teen's praise for the family.

Kiyotsugu turned to tan girl, giving her a sly smile while wagging his finger at her. "Oh, Saori, Saori, Saori. That's exactly what I mean! Capturing the Sprayer would boast their good standing with the people even more! I mean, think about it! Capturing the guy who has been vandalizing public property for the past four years? That would have good standing for them within the city!"

Rikuo gave a nervous smile as his friend went on a long rant, feeling somewhat dejected at how his friend basically called him a criminal. He did admit, that it was true. Spray-painting on property, whether it was for a creative out-let or not wasn't exactly legal.

Seeing the strained smile on her childhood friend's face, Kana went up to Rikuo and lightly touched his arm, gaining the males attention. She gave him a small smile "Hey, why don't you come over pizza Rikuo? It's been a while since you been at my house."

"Oh, wait a wonderful idea Kana!" Kiyotsugu interjected, inviting himself into the conversation. "We should hold Kiyojūji Squad meeting at your house!"

Natsumi, who have been the silent observer huffed at Kiyotsugu. "Hey idiot! Don't just invite yourself over to someone's house! Besides, all this Nura family conspiracy is boring anyways. Why can't we just go to the pool or something? Like normal kids our age?"

Kiyotsugu stepped, almost like he had been suddenly threatened. "Boring! How can you say that! There is nothing more interesting than finding out if a powerful political is a mobster family!"

"A-anyways," Rikuo started, interrupting Kiyotsugu rant. "I would love to Kana, but I can't. I'll be staying at my father's home this weekend. Maybe some other time?"

Kana's smile faltered somewhat, but gave a small nod. "Yeah...some other time" she said while she and the rest of their friends waved to Rikuo who started towards the school's exit.

At a local hardware store, Rikuo was currently browsing through aisle filled with many kinds of spray-paint. He looked through all the different brands, wondering if he should go with a different brand than his usual one. Clipping his tongue, Rikuo made way over to the cheapest brand he could find. These would have to do for now, he lost a lot of cans when he threw them at Kubinashi and they weren't cheap.

Picking out the three primary colors and then two cans of black and white, Rikuo made his way over to the register to check out. A somewhat large women who looked to be in her mid-30's, looked up from her nail filing and asked if that was all he was going to buy. Rikuo nodded his head, only half-listening to her while he dug in his pocket for his phone that suddenly beeped.

Looking at the contact, Rikuo's lips pressed downward as he pushed the view message button on the screen.

Hey, the old man wants to know if you're still coming over.

It was his older half-brother Rikun. Pressing the reply button, Rikuo used his thumb to slide over the electronic keypad to type out his answer that he was still coming over, he was just making a quick stop at the store to buy some things.

Oh, okay. Do you need a ride, he said he'll pick you up.

Again Rikuo typed out his message with a no and that he will be there in about 20 minutes by walking. Putting his phone back into his pants pocket, Rikuo paid the cashier the 45 dollars-somewhat begrudged about the price and took the plastic bag. Walking out the store, he quickly put the plastic bag into his duffel bag, making sure that it was hidden underneath all his clothes. Adjusting the bag that became heavier with it's new contents, Rikuo started on the path closest to his father's home.

As the stores molded into houses, Rikuo took the time to think about his father's family. The Nura were known as the most influential political family within the county. Unlike having a mayor, the city was run under a council of people. And currently Rihan Nura was current head councilman. Not only was he good-looking, he was also kind of heart to the city's people; he cleaned up a run-down park and gave new equipment for it. He often donated to charity and set up many fund raisers, and a few clinics for research have opened during his past few years. Crime has also been at it's lowest during his leadership, even more so than under his father's leadership 30 years ago. The educational system was also arguably better than before as well.

Rihan's immediate family is also well liked to the community. His wife Yamabuki was know for her many volunteer works and her gentle nature. Most of her time was spent being a tutor at a local school for children that had difficulties staying at pace with others.

Together they had a son who was a lot like Rihan, Rikun Nura. Rikun was just as charismatic as his father, often inspiring loyalty from his friends and teammates in whatever club he wanted to join. He was competitive in nature and very hard-working, making sure that he was the best at whatever he did. And just like his father Rikun was also very good-looking. However, compared to Rihan's charming looks of black hair and amber eyes, Rikun could be described as feral; sporting red eyes and hair with sliver at the top and black underneath. In Rikuo's opinion, his half-brother's looks matched his fiery personality.

Soon, Rikuo's thoughts started onto how he and his mother drifted from the Nura family. While his mother shared many characteristics to Yamabuki, Wakana lacked the sheer beauty the former had. Yamabuki was the textbook version of beautiful: long black air, soft angle eyes, tall, had a smooth voice and was a devoted wife. His mother had large wide eyes, was somewhat short, had short hair that framed her face and had an air of independence around her with a few quirks in her personality. In Rikuo's eyes, Yamabuki and Rihan complemented each other much better and not just because of their looks. Rihan was the fierce leader, taking in inspiration from all of those around him and Yamabuki was his ever loyal wife, staying by his side through thick and thin.

Then Rikuo compared himself to his half-brother, Rikun. Rikuo's self confidence wasn't low but, he had to admit he was a bit lack luster compared to his brother.

While Rikun was confident, Rikuo was hesitant.

Rikun was good at sports, Rikuo couldn't find any at his school interesting.

Rikun had a way with people, Rikuo was awkward.

Rikun loved to be the leader, Rikuo prefer to be the follower if he could.

Rikun loved everything about the city, Rikuo thought it looked bleak.

Rikun was very handsome, Rikuo was ordinary with brown hair and eyes.

Feeling a little discourage, Rikuo ran a hand through his hair as he looked at the iron gate that lead his his father's home. Setting down the duffel bag, Rikuo pressed the button on the box that was located on the concrete wall. For a moment he had a strong desire to take out his paint cans to make it look more appealing.

"...Hello?" Rikuo said into the speaker. After a minute of waiting, he pressed the button again. "Hello...Tsurara?"

Soon a buzzed was heard, followed by "Oh! I'm so sorry Master Rikuo! If I known it was you, I would have answered sooner! I'm sorry!"

Rikuo released a small laugh at the hysterical girl. "It's fine Tsurara, and call me Rikuo!"

"R-right, M-Rikuo! And the gate should be open for you now, I'll be waiting at the front door!"

Heaving duffel back from the ground, Rikuo pushed pass the unlock gate. It never ceased to amaze him how extravagant the front yard was. The yard was a lush green, sprinkled with pink from the large cherry trees his father has specificity wanted. There was a wide dirt road that soon went into a circle, and in the middle was a large pearl white fountain spewing water from the top.

Walking around the fountain, Rikuo made way up the marble steps. Before he was able to knock on the door, it suddenly shot open, causing him to step back in fright.

"Master Rikuo! It's so nice to see you again!" Tsurara said with a happy smile.

"It's nice to see you again too, Tsurara" Rikuo replied with a smile of his own.

"Oh! Master Rikuo, please let me take your bags" Tsurara said walking over to Rikuo.

"No, it's fine I can-"

"No no! It's my job to serve you at all times, Master Rikuo! Please, let me take your bags to your room!"

Feeling a bit reluctant, Rikuo slid off his school bag and handed it to the girl along with his duffel bag. His hands laid at either side of him as stood feeling some what awkward.

Rikuo saw her adjust the bags in her hand, he assumed it was so the bags would be easier for her to carry upstairs.

"Now please come in Master Rikuo. Lord Rihan, Miss Yamabuki, Lord Rikun and Lord Nurarihyon are currently in the family room. Dinner will be ready within a few moments." Tsurara said, making room for Rikuo to pass. After she closed the door behind him, Tsurara went the opposite way going up the stairs where is room was located.

Rikuo stood there for a moment, trying to find some way to stall for time. He had planned on just going upstairs to his room and just avoid them unless necessary like usual. However, he had arrived just a little too late. Taking a deep breath and sucking up some courage, Rikuo made way to the family room.

The walls of the hallway were a soft beige color with white wood trimmings separating the paint from the also white wooden bottom. Underneath his feet, the maple floor shined and was polished so nicely that he could see his reflection. As he walked past the many rooms the house held, he was greeted enthusiastically by many of the workers. Rikuo held up his hand as a small greeting, feeling a bit out of place seeing them all so dressed up while he was in his school uniform.

"Ah! Rikuo," said a smooth feminine voice that belonged to Yamabuki. She stood up for her place on the royal blue couch and, with out stretched hands she went over to hug Rikuo who had hugged her back.

"Nice to see you again, Yama..uh, mother." Rikuo said after letting her go. "Thank you, for allowing me to stay over again."

"Oh, don't speak such nonsense Rikuo. You know very well that you are welcome here any time," Yamabuki retorted, lightly scolding. "You're family, you know."

Right, I'm family.

"And my, don't you look so handsome!" She gushed.

Rikuo picked at his red cotton vest and looked down at his uniform. Underneath his vest, a short sleeve white button up poke through and we was wearing khaki pants. To him, this was hardly anything good-looking and made him look like a scholar if not somewhat nerdy. Quickly, he glanced around the room and took in the appearances of the occupants.

Yamabuki wore a black halter top that hugged her body, a soft medium length yellow skirt covered her legs. From what Rikuo could see, she also wore some black boots. Looking at the other male occupants, Rikuo tried his hardest not to visibly drop his smile. Even his grandfather looked better than he did and the man is 62! Said grandfather was currently wearing a nice fitting purple polo shirt, the top two buttons undone and some black slacks. His hair was just as strange as Rikun's, being a pale blond and black. Nurarihyon adored bits if hair on his chin, with a few prominent lines on his face showing he was older than he looked. He lightly sipped on some tea, and seemed to be ignoring everyone else in the room.

Rikuo's gaze then shifted to Rihan, who had both arms over the couch. The man was dressed with a dark green dress shirt with the sleeves rolled up at the elbows. Over that was a pure black vest and a lose brown tie, with pin-stripped bottoms. Judging from this disheveled appearance, Rikuo assumed that the man had recently come back from work.

"Ah, what's this Rikuo? Checking out your family members? How disgraceful of you!"

Rikuo snapped his head towards his brother, who looking at him with teasing red eyes. Rikun happened to be wearing a dark blue button shirt and black jeans, probably the most casual out of them all. A small embarrassed blushed tinted Rikuo's fair skin.

"Of course not! Who would do such a thing, idiot!" Rikuo retorted vigorously.

Rikun lifted up his hands in mock surrender "Hey now, no need to be so rude! I was just teasing!"

"Now, now Rikun," Rihan said lifting his arms up in a stretch before standing up. "Don't tease your brother so much, he just got here. There will be plenty of time for that later" He paused for a minute before adding. "Plus, who could blame him for staring? I am rather handsome."

Tried of his son's boasting, Nurarihyon took out the spoon from his tea and threw it at Rihan's face. "Shut up, my stupid son."

"Hey! That was uncalled for, you old coot!" Rihan shouted, rubbing at the spot the spoon had hit him.

Rikun heartily laughed at his father and grandfather's bickering, while Yamabuki covered her mouth and giggled. Rikuo was at a lost for what to do, he didn't want to laugh at his father but being the only one not finding it funny made him stand out too much. He opted for the safest choice, asking if his father was alright.

"Ah...father, are you alright?"

Rihan stopped rubbing at the red spot on his face, and smiled at his youngest son. "I'm alright Rikuo. Now, lets go. I am sure dinner is ready." He said, walking towards the kitchen and beckoned his family to follow.

Laying on his plush comforter Rikuo looked at the ceiling, thinking about the conversation they had at dinner. They discussed how he was doing in school, if he was thinking of playing sports, what he did after school, if he had started dating yet and how Wakana was doing. After they had drained out all of his information, Rikun then boasted about his perfect grades, how he his soccer team qualified for state and the recent mutual break up with his girlfriend. Then he started discussing about the Sprayer with Rihan and what to do about him with Nurarihyon including a bit of input from his past experience.

Rikuo didn't understand why his spray-painting was discussed so feverishly, despite the the fact there were much worst crimes than his. Graffiti was easy to fix up too, just splash some gray paint over it and the picture is gone. He voiced his confusion and to his surprise, the three men laugh at him.

"It's because he's interesting!" was the reason than Rikun gave and their father and grandfather agreed with him.

Rikuo sighed as he sat up in his bed, he really should have guessed that was the reason. Finally changing out of his uniform, Rikuo dug through his duffel bag taking out all the clothes before choosing a outfit. He settled on his baggy dark green jacket with brown horizontal stripes, dark blue jeans tucked into his bulky too many buckles black boots. Adoring his gas mask, goggles and rubber gloves, Rikuo made sure his spray-paint cans were in the bag before sliding open the glass door of his balcony.

Leaving the door open by a crack and making sure the duffel was secured, Rikuo climbed over the railing. Slowly he slid himself down the bars before letting go, landing as quiet as he could on the other balcony. He was lucky that the other residents of the house decided to get piss drunk, it made this much easier. Rikuo went over two more balconies before landing on the ground and rolled into it.

Looking up and to his sides, Rikuo headed for iron gate. Reaching as high as his arms would allow, Rikuo hoisted himself up and put the curves of his feet at the bars and climb up. At the top, he pushed himself up so upper body was over it. Rikuo swung leg over so both legs were on either side. Taking a breath, he twisted his body and swung his other leg over. Sitting now, Rikuo took another deep breathe and pushed himself off and, after a second of landing he went into a roll. Dusting himself off and making sure the bag was okay, Rikuo then ran towards a random direction.

What Rikuo didn't see was in the balcony next to his, a figured was standing there leaning against the railing with a cigarette in his mouth.

This was almost seven pages, the longest thing I ever written for fanfiction.

How sad.

Anyways, I think everyone is OCC as heck and dear lord, Kiyotsugu was hard to write. Ugh

Rikuo is also a projection of everything I like, baggy top, tight bottoms with goggles, gas mask and spray paint.~

And in no way am I bashing Wanaka, that bit is very important for later chapters.

If I made any mistakes please let me know!

6 August 2012 Edited where so Rikuo calls them mother and father. The purpose was so it sounds more formal and a bit more distant, this is so the next chapter makes more sense.