Chapter 28: Mystical Enchantments
Tenri slowly opened her eyes, gazing upon the ceiling. She slowly lifted her body upright, feeling the morning rays stinging her eyes. She covered her eyes, shielding them with her arms. She turned her head, gazing upon Keima sleeping inside his sleeping bag. His arms held out his PFP, making Tenri form a small grin. Suddenly, the doppelganger stood behind her, folding her arms.
"Do I always have to do everything for you? You haven't spoken much last night!"
Tenri turned her head around, gazing upon it.
"Well... It's not like I have something to say in mind..."
The doppelganger shook its head, walking around Tenri.
"Sometimes, I really find you completely hopeless without me... I don't want to babysit you like this all the time."
It glared at Keima's face, watching him snore.
"Besides, don't you think you should punish him for his indecent ways? I can't believe any normal being would not only focus on that crude machine but also ignore others most of the time!"
Tenri yawned loudly, closing her eyes.
"You always complain too much..."
She turned her head around, gazing upon the clock. 6:04am.
"I feel a bit tired right now. At least I can sleep for a bit longer..."
Tenri rested her body on her bed, closing her eyes. The doppelganger turned its head to Tenri, gazing upon her face. Well there's no reason not to stop helping Tenri right now...
Hinoki's car drove through the road overlooking the beach, feeling her scarf waving around. Her glasses glinted form the bright sunlight. She tapped her fingers on her steering wheel, humming to a tune from the radio. The digital clock appeared above the radio, reading "7:15am". The car descended into a building-infested jungle, travelling past oncoming pedestrians. She formed a small grin on her face, noticing signs and billboards containing the word "Majima". Who would've thought that I'll be back for the third time? The car turned towards a parking entrance, halting at the guard post.
Well, I better make sure Kusunoki doesn't find me here, or she might try convincing me to stay in here forever. The post lifted its arm up, making the car enter inside the parking lot. The car snuggled itself inside an open space, letting Hinoki out of her car. She stretched her arms out, yawning loudly. Sure I might've spent a lot just to come here... but I'm gonna help Kusunoki get that guy... She strutted through the parking area, advancing towards the elevator. An image of Keima appeared inside her mind, striking an idea inside her. First of all, I'll be getting in touch with one of my fellow fans... I'm sure he'll be glad to see me...
Keima slowly opened his eyes, groaning in agony. My head... it doesn't feel right... He linked at the ceiling, gazing upon the unfamiliar colours. Where am I? This isn't my usual room... He lowered his eyelids, realising the events form last night. Oh... I'm in Tenri's house aren't I? He turned his head around, gazing upon Tenri. Since I must be inside her room, I'm guessing she's next to... He widened his eyes, finding Tenri wrapping her arms around his body. ...me? Tenri slowly opened her eyes, gazing upon Keima's face. The two blinked at each other momentarily, feeling confused.
Tenri moved away from Keima, covering her face and gasping in shame.
"I'm s-sorry, Keima-kun!"
Keima lowered his arm, turning his head away from Tenri.
"Do you always do this in your sleep?"
Tenri lowered her hands, watching Keima play his PFP. She giggled nervously, scratching her head.
"Umm... not exactly..."
Tenri and Keima lifted their bodies from the ground. Tenri lowered her hands, smiling at Keima.
"Maybe we should go downstairs... breakfast might be ready soon..."
As she strolled towards him, her foot slipped. She widened her eyes, feeling her body collide towards him. She screamed, drawing his attention. He widened his eyes, feeling his body falling on the ground. Keima and Tenri blinked at each other, finding her arms wrapped around Keima again. Keima's face grew red, feeling goose bumps on his body.
"D-don't touch me!"
T-tenri's body trembled in fear, feeling her cheeks red.
"S...sorry."
Suddenly, Hana opened the door, entering Tenir's room.
"Why are you at this girl's house? We have important things to-"
Hana widened her eyes, finding Keima and Tenri on the floor. Her body trembled in fear as Keima and Tenri turned their heads. They widened their eyes, feeling more embarrassed. Keima pulled his body away from Tenri, standing up from the ground. Tenri sighed, feeling embarrassed. Wh... why did I do that?
Hana glared at Tenri sitting opposite to Keima, noticing her eyes pointing at a different direction. This girl is more cunning than I thought... who would've thought that she had the audacity to bring my Keima to her house? She imagined Tenri flirting with Keima at the living room. I may need a counter solution or else she might actually succeed in winning his heart... Tenri gazed upon her plate and cutlery, fumbling her thumbs quickly. Wh… what should I do now? Keima-kun's right next to me… but… She lifted her head up, making Hana's face change. One of his friends is here with us… I can only do so little…
Tenri's mother entered the room, carrying a huge plate of food on her hand.
"So I gathered you're a friend of Keima-kun, am I right?"
Hana closed her eyes and nodded.
"I guess you can say that, as I'm also a childhood friend of Kumuro-kun."
Her mother pulled a chair towards her, placing herself on it.
"Ah... I know that guy! He's also friends with my Tenri-chan!"
She gently rubbed her hands on Tenri's head, making her blush and cower in embarrassment.
"I guess these boys have a lot more in common! Maybe the two of you could bond together. Isn't that right, Tenri?"
Tenri chuckled nervously.
"Ah... I guess so..."
Tenri's mother sighed, turning her head to her. Keima sighed as he lifted his PFP up.
Keima and Hana strolled through the school grounds, walking past groups of students. She lifted her piPhone up, gazing upon the website "messenger of god". Maybe the first thing I should do is to warm him about Tenri... Then this'll reduce the chance for his friend to get too close to him! She flicked her finger around, scrolling through texts of useless information. Even though childhood friends will most likely to become lovers, he will stop at nothing to avoid them from seeing him like this. She closed her eyes, imagining Keima stepping away from Tenri. At least this gives me a golden opportunity to cut her out of his life before I win his heart...
She pulled her piPhone back inside her pocket, turning her head to him.
"Say, about your childhood friend..."
Keima sighed whilst gazing upon his PFP.
"About Tenri... I didn't even notice that I had a childhood friend from such a young age... maybe it could just be trickery for all I know..."
Hana blinked at Keima in confusion. Huh? Did he actually say what I think he said?
"You... are you sure about it?"
Keima slowly nodded his head.
"I only remembered the times when I just spend time playing games before I met her during the summer vacation. Nothing else..."
Hana let out a small gasp. Wh... why don't I feel relieved about this? Maybe he doesn't even care about me too... She closed her eyes, trying to make her mind blank. Don't let any ideas get to you... now's not the time to be second-guessing. I still have tasks to fulfil...
"Then I guess I should tell you about that girl..."
Keima stopped moving, making her follow his actions. He turned his head, blinking at her.
"What about Tenri?"
Hana gazed upon his god-like eyes, summoning her train of thought inside her mind.
"She... she might have feelings for you..."
Keima continued blinked at Hana. ...what?
"What makes you think of that?"
Hana let out a small hum. I guess I should start making him notice her childhood friend... I can use the evidence form this morning... that should really do...
"Did you notice something unusual this morning?"
Keima turned his head away from her, lifting his head up. He placed his hands on his chin, humming to himself.
"Now that I think about it... she was somehow hugging me this morning..."
He closed his eyes and shrugged.
"But that could be her usual clumsiness."
Keima continued strolling through the grounds, making Hana sigh. Is... is he being a bit careless to not notice important details? She paced towards him, trying to catch up to him. Or perhaps I might be overreacting... She gazed upon Keima's face, making her cheeks slightly blush. I guess I should prepare early... who knows what she could do next...
Tenri placed her hands on her cheeks, sitting on her desk. She gazed upon the window behind groups of students. My heart... it still throbs a lot more than the past few days... She sighed, feeling chills on her skin. Maybe she's right... I should really put more effort into getting closer to Keima-kun... She closed her eyes and sighed, picturing Keima sitting near her. But... I'm not really good with talking... I... I guess it's like old times... She imagined her small self sitting at a class, cowering herself from other boys standing near her. They leaned their head forward, making her shed tears from her eyes.
She opened her eyes, snapping out of her daydream. Maybe... maybe if I could get some help... She turned her head, noticing Nanaka entering her room. She formed a small grin on her face, holding her hand out and waving it around.
"Haibara-san!"
Nanaka shifted her eyes to Tenri. She formed a huge grin as she strolled towards her.
"Hey, you watched that show last night?"
Tenri blinked at Nanaka momentarily. She giggled nervously, scratching her head.
"Oh ummm... about that... I..."
Her cheeks reddened, making Nanaka blink at her.
"I invited Keima-kun over to my house last night..."
Nanaka widened her eyes, gasping at Tenri.
"Wow... how did that go?"
She gently wrapped her arm around Tenri's neck, gently rubbing her fists against Tenri.
"So... did you get to kiss him? Or maybe you confessed to him there!"
Tenri groaned, feeling her eyes spinning around. She fell on the ground, feeling nauseous. She slowly lifted herself from the ground, pushing her fingers together.
"Umm... I uh... we didn't do much..."
Nanaka sighed, placing her arms on her hips.
"You really are hopeless! If you really want to win a boy's heart, you just go full on out on him! It works 100%!"
Tenri placed herself back on her desk, gazing upon Nanaka.
"Speaking of which, are you feeling better now from Kumuro-kun?"
Nanaka momentarily blink at Tenri in confusion. She closed her eyes and sighed.
"That jerk..."
She placed herself at her desk, facing the board.
"Well... I guess I do feel a bit better now..."
"Are... are you sure? You seemed to be ditching me quite often..."
Nanaka stood silent, making Tenri blink at her. A teacher entered the room, carrying piles of book on his arms.
"Get in your seats!"
Ichigou sat at his desk, gazing upon Keima standing near the whiteboard. He placed his hands on his cheeks, hearing Keima blabbering about the lessons. An image of Yui appeared inside his mind, making his heart throb. I wish I get to see Yui again... even though Kumuro's friend is helping me, I can't wait much longer... Keima poked Ichigou's head with his stick, catching his attention.
"Hey! Pay attention! This part is a lot more crucial here!"
Ichigou sighed.
"You know... we could just solely focus on what I should do to win Yui's heart..."
Keima shook his head, moving the stick away from him.
"Let's put it this way: if you find yourself looking for another girl again, will you still struggle without my teachings?"
Ichigou rested his head on the desk.
"Maybe you're right... but I'm not really in the mood to do anything..."
The bell rang from outside, making Keima face the board. He held out a clean piece of tissue, wiping it around the board.
"Well since I don't have time finding Kumuro right now, I'm going to let you do this task on your own..."
Ichigou widened his eyes in fear.
"Hang on... what are you guys doing then?"
Keima placed a huge script on the desk, gazing upon Ichigou's worried face.
"We have important tasks to do. There's a summary on the front page if you wish not to waste time on it."
Keima held his hands out, revealing a wig and a girl's school uniform.
"And we require you to wear these ones again..."
Ichigou abruptly lifted himself from the ground, forming a frown on his face.
"You really expect me to do this one on my own? I thought you're supposed to be helping me! What's more important than that?"
Keima sighed, closing his eyes.
"Fine... I'll stick by you. Hana will be the only one that won't join us..."
Kumuro and Shiori sat opposite to each other, averting their eyes from their faces. Kumuro formed a huge grin, gazing upon the laptop screen. Finally, I've almost done my second round of editing! Now I'll soon send this submission to my editor and then I'll let my precious grow... Shiori moved her hands around, creating lines of stories. I only have a few more pages left... I can do this! I just have to focus and- Suddenly, she widened her eyes, picturing herself being held by Kumuro. He whispered inside her ears, making her blush. No no no no no! I can't let this distract me now! I'm almost there!
Kumuro shifted his eyes from his laptop, watching Shiori's body trembling.
"Umm... are you alright there?"
Shiori lifted herself from her chair, carrying the book with her. She strolled away from Kumuro, making him turn around.
"I... I'm gonna go somewhere else..."
Kumuro nodded his head.
"Keep going!"
He turned away from Shiori, moving his hands around the keyboard. I'm glad that things had worked out in the end! I was fortunate enough in helping her despite that one mistake... hopefully, her submission will be successful and then... Suddenly, his eyes caught attention of a book lying on the desk, making him lean forward. Say, is this a part of her novel? He lifted the book off the desk, opening it up. That was a close one! If I haven't seen that, Shiomiya-san would get very very- He blinked at the words in confusion. Hang on... this one's a lot different from the one we're working on...
He flipped through a few pages, skimming through the lines. Something about libraries and how people go there... at least she's not submitting those ones... He widened his eyes, catching glimpse of his name. Hey... what's this about me...? He dropped the book on the desk, feeling his body trembling. Oh... my... god... Amika-chan was onto something after all! A huge gasp called out from behind, drawing Kumuro's attention. He turned around, watching Shiori trembled in fear. She advanced towards him, snatching the book near the laptop. She ran away from him, making him chase after her.
He held his hands out, shouting at her name.
"Shiomiya-san! Wait!"
Shiori stood still, drawing a tear from her eyes. I... I can't believe it... I... I let him read it... Kumuro stood behind her, watching her sadness. He crossed his lips, feeling ashamed. Oh crap... this is bad... If I just tell her we're just friends, it might make things worse... I only wanted her to finish her novel... He placed his hands on her shoulders, making her gasp.
"I'm sorry for peeping through that one... I... I didn't realise..."
She slowly turned her head, revealing he wet cheeks. Kumuro smiled at her, making her blink at him. She sighed, wiping the tears off her cheeks.
"Umm... do..."
Kumuro's smile disappeared, waiting for Shiori to finish her sentence.
"Do you... like me...?"
Inside Kumuro's mind, mini Kumuro ran around in circles, screaming loudly. AAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! He ran into a wall, falling on the ground. What should I say now? I was going to avoid that conversation! AAAARRRGGHHH! He snapped out of his mini-crisis returning to reality. Kumuro sighed, moving his hands away from Shiori. The only way out is to tell her this...
"Listen... maybe we should just be friends..."
Shiori's eyes watered. She then sighed, strolling past Kumuro. He turned around, holding his hands out.
"Umm... we're still working on the novel, right? I would hate it if you just give up immediately..."
Shiori stood still, feeling her heart aching.
"I... I can finish this... alone..."
She strolled away from Kumuro, making him cross his lips. I feel very guilty right now...
Yui stood at a door, gazing upon the sign "2-B". I guess what I should do now is to find Keima-sama here. I'll just wait for one of his classmates to come in and then I'll be good to go! Amika stood near Yui, blinking at her.
"Hey! What are you doing here?"
Yui turned her head, gazing upon Amika.
"Oh hey there! I'm just wondering where your friend's friend is?"
Amika scratched her head.
"Izumi?"
Yui shook her head.
"I mean your male one."
Amika's body froze, feeling more confused. Wait... what does she want with Otamegane?
"Umm... why do you want him?"
Yui blinked at Amika momentarily. She shrugged as she strolled away from her.
"Umm... no particular reason..."
Yui sighed, placing her hands inside her pockets. Well it's no use now... It'll take me a tracking device on him to find that guy now... Maybe I'll just join the others for today... Suddenly, Yui got pushed to the ground, feeling her body aching. Ow... what was that? She turned her head, widening her eyes at Ichigou. His orange wig glowed form the bright room light. He gasped at Yui, backing himself away from her. Shrugging off the confusion, Yui closed her eyes, smiling at her. Well maybe I'll just have fun with this guy...
"Hello again! You're looking cute like last time..."
Ichigou's cheeks reddened, hesitating to speak.
"Umm... do... do you mind if you teach me how to use the girl's bathroom?"
Ichigou gritted his teeth, finding himself inside a toilet block. This is the dumbest thing ever! Why the hell should I do this when I know how to use the toilet as a girl? His face whitened, feeling ashamed of himself. Why am I saying like I'm proud of this? I feel stupid to use the toilet like this regularly... A flashback appeared inside his mind, bringing himself standing near Keima. He blinked at Ichigou with his wide eyes.
"Umm... did you really have to tell me that?"
Ichigou gritted his teeth at him.
"The whole point is that I would feel really really degraded to ask her like this..."
Keima sighed, walking away from him.
"This is pretty much the only effective way to increase her love points at this stage. You'll thank me later..."
Ichigou returned inside the toilet block, folding his arms. If I have to sit here for a very long time, I'm gonna go out now... He widened his eyes, hearing Yui calling out from outside.
"I remember the times when Keima-sama taught me how to use the boy's room. It was kinda scary at first..."
Ichigou slowly nodded his head. I still remember that... but why is she addressing that guy as "sama" anyway?
"You know... I was kinda scared at first... but I guess it's not half bad once you start getting used to being a man..."
Ichigou opened the door, exiting the toilet block. Well I'm done here... He pulled out a note, opening it up. He skimmed through the lines, following the instructions. You know... I could've just done that only... would've been ten times easier! Especially when I'm wearing this dress!
"Hey... you wanna go outside this building? I don't think I wanna stick around here for long..."
Hana stood behind the tree, gazing upon Tsukiyo sitting at her usual bench. Half an hour has passed... And I'm still not convinced that they're helping us... unless however they did this early in the morning... She formed a frown on her face. But I would've notice the slightest difference if that were to happen... She closed her eyes and sighed. I guess I might have to find another source of help to get Keima's childhood friend out of the picture...
"Our hero returns to this uncharted world to further investigate its majestic surroundings!"
She opened her eyes, gazing upon Kyo. She lowered her eyelids, blinking in disbelief. ...You're kidding... This is what Keima chose? Some crazy freak who thinks he's in another world? She turned her head, watching Ryou's head popping from a wall. Well I guess this isn't as bad as this idiot right over there... Hana strolled away from the tree, walking towards Ryou. Ryou turned his head, gasping at Hana. He dashed towards Hana, dragging her away from Kyo. He frowned at her, waving his arm around.
"What do you think you're doing? You've almost compromised the situation!"
Hana sighed, folding her arms.
"You just expect me to take every word you and your brother have said?"
Ryou popped his head out, gazing upon Kyo standing near Tsukiyo.
"Well... at least she had barely noticed anything... yet..."
Hana moved her head, facing Ryou's direction. Tsukiyo turned her head to Kyo, glaring at him.
"You again! What do you want this time?"
Kyo chuckled boldly, placing his arms on his hips.
"I just simply came here because this area is majestic and mysterious! Isn't that right, Tsukiyo?"
Hana dropped her jaws, feeling flabbergasted. You're kidding! These kinds of lines will make any girl brand him as a weirdo! Tsukiyo faced away from Kyo, peering through the telescope.
"I was in a harmonious mood... until you showed up. You should leave this area immediately!"
Kyo sat on her bench, gazing upon the telescope.
"Ooo... I love that model! One of my friends has those!"
Tsukiyo slowly turned her head, finding Kyo sitting next to her. Hana closed her eyes and sighed. I don't know which is worse, this idiot's teachings or Keima's choice of candidates... Tsukiyo gritted her teeth, feeling her eyes twitching. She slapped him on the face, knocking him on the ground.
"Why... did you... sit here?"
Kyo slowly lifted his body off the ground, scratching his head and chuckling nervously.
"Well... I was getting a closer look at your telescope..."
She lifted Luna up, wiping hidden dirt off Luna's dress.
"You also left your grotesque essence on my poor Luna! You should be ashamed of your own actions!"
Kyo crossed his lips, gazing upon Luna's dazzling face.
"Well... sorry about that..."
Tsukiyo carefully positioned her doll on the bench as she returned to her seat. She glared at Kyo, folding her arms.
"You best leave right now! You presence annoys me!"
Hana placed her hands on her chin, humming to herself. In one way, Kyo might've ran out of luck, thus he now is doomed to get closer to her... but by the looks of it, as much as I hate to say this, he just might be able to succeed in pulling her away from my Keima...
Keima hid behind a tree, gazing upon Ichigou and Yui sitting side by side on the bench. The two laughed cheerfully, making Keima grin. It seems like their love points are increasing a bit quickly. This is great news for me... Once I get information from Hana, I will determine the next steps taken. He folded his arms, chuckling triumphantly. Reality, you think you're so clever having many girls on me! But watch as I put an end to your worthless and pointless campaign against me! I am the god of capturing people's hearts! I will choose who shall love me and who will love someone else!
"What are you doing there?"
Keima blinked momentarily, hearing a familiar voice. He turned around, gazing upon Chihiro standing in front of him. He lowered his eyelids and groaned. Great... what does she want from me?
"I should be the one asking that..."
Chihiro lowered her eyelids, grinning sinisterly.
"Maybe you were perving on other school girls because you'll never have any girlfriend!"
Keima folded his arms and sighed. I shouldn't really engage in any pointless stupid conversations like that!
"Well that's big talk coming from someone who doesn't have a boyfriend!"
Chihiro closed her eyes and shrugged.
"Who needs a boyfriend? They're overrated! Especially those who think virtual girls are better than "real" ones!"
Keima formed a frown on his face. I don't know what reality is up to... Is he just being funny right now?
"Then why are you still here?"
Chihiro stood near him, making his cheeks blush slightly. She leaned ehr head forward, continuing to grin sinisterly.
"I was just walking past... until you were doing something suspicious..."
Keima gritted his teeth, taking a few steps away from her.
"Then go back to moving away from me! There shouldn't really be any more reasons for you to stick around here!"
Chihiro frowned at Keima, folding her arms. Man... It's almost like he has something to hide! I'm gonna find out why one way or- Suddenly she widened her eyes, gazing upon Ichigou and Yui. Hey... there's Yui and- Yui stood up from the bench, strolling away from Ichigou.
"I... I'll think about it..."
Chihiro marched past Keima, making him turn around. He widened his eyes, noticing her moving towards Ichigou. Crap! I didn't anticipate something like this would happen! Ichigou widened hsi eyes at Chihiro, whimpering quietly to himself. His body trembled in fear, watching Chihiro lean forward and smile at him.
"Hey! I haven't seen you around here before!"
She held her hands out, making him stare at it.
"I'm Kosaka Chihiro! What's your name?"
Ichigou continued whimpering, hesitating to respond. Crap... what should I do? He didn't tell me this is going to happen... Keima stood next to Chihiro, scratching his head and giggling nervously.
"This girl's a bit shy... Maybe you should back away from her and-"
Chihiro turned around and kicked him in the stomach, making him fall on the gorund and gasp in pain. Ichigou widened his eyes, sparking an idea inside his head. Hey... This friend of Kumuro had given me a chance! Chihiro folded her arms, watching Keima slowly stand up from the ground.
"You were perving on new girls like her, weren't you?"
Keima coughed, trying to respond.
"I... was just... telling you... the obvious..."
Chihiro turned her head, finding the bench empty.
"You also made her run away from you feeling scared thanks to your contagious disease! No wonder no girl will ever like you!"
Keima waved his arm around, unleashing his rage with words.
"What about you? You always talk about shit like that! Maybe that's why no guy will ever want you! You always say shit to people like me!"
Chihiro kicked Keima in the balls, making him scream in agony. He fell on the ground, feeling tears dripping from his eyes. What is this? Some kind of torture from someone I despise? Chihiro faced away from him, gazing upon the sky.
"You know I'd only say shit to you... do you ever see me do that to other boys?"
Keima slowly lifted himself up again, feeling his body throbbing. This is just like a few months ago... It's like she's still the same old self... having to mock me and give me hell... He turned away from Chihiro, strolling through the school grounds. There's no reason for me to stick around for longer. I need to find Ichigou and get him into the next phase... Chihiro turned her head, noticing Keima moving away from her. She crossed her lips, feeling a bit guilty. Dammit... I've been a bit harsh on him, huh? She held her hands out, drawing attention to him.
"Wait."
Keima's body froze, hearing her voice. What does she want now? Chihiro sighed, feeling her cheeks blushing.
"I... I'm sorry if I went a bit overboard..."
Keima blinked rapidly, feeling confused. Weird... why would that foul girl apologise to me right now?
"Well... I didn't really mean what I said just now... so... don't take it personally..."
Keima turned around, forming his god-like face.
"Why are you feeling sorry right now? I'm sure you always mean what you have said..."
Chihiro moved her head away from him, hiding her blushing cheeks.
"I... I just felt bad for you, remembering those few months ago when we had a huge fight..."
Keima and Chihiro stood silent, waiting for each other to break the silence. Mini Keima stood on his shoulder, scratching his head. Was it just me or is she also... Mini Keima shook his head. No... it can't be... there's no way she has the slightest feelings for me... after all, she's just being her usual self... umm... apart from these recent events maybe... Chihiro opened her mouth, snapping Keima out of his train of thought.
"Then... would you appreciate it if I stop insulting you in anyway? Would that make you feel better?"
Keima widened his eyes in fear. Hold on... this... this is really unusual of her... He closed his eyes and sighed.
"Well... I suppose that would be nice of you..."
His eyes caught glimpse of Amika, making him blink at her. Chihiro turned around, gazing upon Amika's body trembling in fear.
"What... are you doing?"
Chihiro slowly widened her eyes, gasping in fear.
"A-a... Amika-chan!"
She kicked him in the stomach, making Keima groan again. She closed ehr eyes and scratched her head, chuckling nervously.
"Uh, wow... what are you doing here?"
Amika grabbed her hands, amking Chihiro blink in confusion.
"I've been looking everywhere for you and Yui for band practice! The two of you are late now!"
Amika dragged Chihiro away from Keima, making her scream loudly. He lifted his head up, groaning in pain. That was one strange event I encountered...
Yui gazed upon the mirror, feeling her head spinning around. That Ichigou guy… that was really unexpected… Ichigou's voice whispered inside her head, reminding her of a few minutes ago. I… I was thinking maybe after school… at five… we can go to denizea sea… She placed her hands on the basin, breathing heavily. I... I think I'm now in love... with... She shook her head, groaning to herself. Dammit! I'm becoming more and more drawn away from Keima-sama! I know he's the one I truly want... Yui closed her eyes and sighed. Well... this Ichigou guy sure is cuter than Keima-sama though...
She strolled away from the basin, standing near the window and gazing through it. Now that I think about it... maybe that's what I need to do to win Keima-sama's heart... She formed a small grin on her face. Maybe if I accept this date, I might make Keima-sama realise what he's missing out on and he'll surely come for me! Suddenly, she heard the door swung open, forcing her to turn around. She widened her eyes, gazing upon the bright orange hair.
"I... Ichigou..."
The girl blinked at Yui in confusion, scratching her head.
"Who?"
Yui blinked back at her momentarily. She closed her and scratched her head, chuckling nervously.
"Oh... umm... I just... I thought you were someone else..."
Yui strolled past the girl, exiting the bathroom.
Keima sat on the bench next to Hana, gazing upon Kyo and Ryou. So this is the manga artist I had chosen... if only I was with Hana to observe them myself... Kyo turned his head, glaring at Ryou.
"Why am I still here? I need to get this next chapter done! They're not going to wait by themselves you know!"
Ryou pulled out a piece of paper, unfolding the edges apart.
"According to my bro- my own notes, you will also initiate an after school event. This part is very important to get most of her attention, so you better succeed there!"
Keima turned his head, facing Hana.
"Since I'll be helping Ichigou in the final events, I guess you should further observe these people."
Kyou pointed his finger at Keima.
"Anyway, who are these people? I have never seen them before!"
Keima lifted himself from the bench, making his glasses shine from the sunlight.
"I am the capturing god! I am associated with this messenger of mine!"
Hana sighed, shaking her head. He might've taken this god thing too far... Kyou hummed to himself, observing Keima's face carefully.
"You just look like some low-life Otaku to me..."
Keima's eyes glowed bright red, feeling his head blowing steam from his ears. His head grew as he shouted at Kyou.
"Don't you dare talk to me like this!"
Ryou wrapped his arms around Keima, chuckling calmly.
"Oh don't mind one of my students my capturing god... He's always like this..."
Keima lifted Ryou's arms off him.
"Well it's nice that you have shown interest in aiding me. But we'll still be watching."
Keima strolled away from the boys, leaving them behind. Hana lifted herself off the bench, catching up to Keima.
"Say... do you think you should also plan your next moves on other girls?"
Keima turned his head, gazing upon her concerned look.
"I agree with you, but maybe we should wait a bit longer before deciding on my next moves."
"But what happens if these girls made you stand in a worse position before you even plan so? Would you be able to get out of it?"
Keima sighed, pulling out his PFP from his pocket.
"Well I can assure you that they won't make a move anytime soon… We got some time before then."
Shiori gazed upon the last page, feeling her heart throbbing. An image of Kumuro appeared inside her mind, standing near Amika like a dog. I… I am now lost in words… Amika laughed evilly, reminding Shiori of a green-skinned witch. There could be no other words to describe how I feel right now… This girl… A tear dripped from her eye, creeping through her cheeks. She might've planned this all along... taking something I once had… She wiped the tears off her face, closing the book gently. I've been grateful for what Muhara-kun had done for me… perhaps a bit more than that…
She placed her head on the desk and sighed. But I am now unsure about sending this novel to the chairman… I only have a few days left before it's due… Suddenly, the chairman stood near Shiori, gazing upon her.
"I heard you've got the novel done."
Shiori slowly turned her head around, revealing her depressed face.
"… Yes… It's right here…"
The chairman pulled the novel from her, flipping through the pages.
"I'm quite impressed about you to be honest… I never really thought you would get it done… plus you seemed to have taken care of the deadline…"
She lowered the novel, observing Shiori's face carefully.
"Is there something bothering you?"
Shiori slowly shook her head, hesitating to answer. The chairman placed the novel back on the desk and sighed.
"Does it have something to do with that cat-like haired guy and that girl who somehow looks similar to me?"
Shiori's cheeks slowly reddened.
"… I… I uh…"
The chairman turned around and placed her hands on her chin.
"This girl seemed to be very cunning and aggressive… but I have a funny feeling that she hasn't confessed to that friend of yours…"
Shiori blinked at the chairman, feeling her mind going blank. Chairman… what are you talking about?
"Well… I'm not usually the person who gets involved in personal matters… but I kinda feel sorry for you. If you want, I'll go talk to that girl about it."
Shiori closed her eyes, holding her arms out.
"Umm… you… you don't have to do this for me…"
"It's okay. I'll make sure things will work out between you and that friend of yours…"
Shiori crossed her lips, feeling concerned.
Amika, Chihiro, Ayumi and Miyako gazed upon Yui, blinking at her showing her red cheeks. (Chihiro) Her drumming ain't as strong as usual today… I wonder what's up with her… (Ayumi) She seemed a bit down today, wonder what's going on… (Amika) I don't know what's going on… but the festival is coming up very shortly… Miyako leaned forward, taking a closer look at Yui.
"Yui… Is there something wrong today?"
Yui closed her eyes and sighed. My mind's not exactly working for band practice today, huh? Maybe… maybe I'm more in love with Ichigou than it seems…
"Oh… I uhh…"
The girls gathered around Yui, forming a circle. Chihiro placed her hands on Yui's back.
"You're usually more energetic than all of us combined when it comes to band practices! Are you feeling okay?"
"Well well well… if it isn't the girls who are still practicing hopelessly for the upcoming festival…"
The girls faced their heads to Heihachi, witnessing his sinister face. Ichigou hid beside him, gazing upon Yui. Yui's heart thumped quickly, gazing upon Ichigou's face. Chihiro folded her arms, gritting her teeth and frowning at him.
"What do you want this time?"
Heihachi stepped aside, revealing the twins holding their guitars.
"We're just gonna let you hear this preview for the upcoming festival... just to finalise a few things..."
Amika lifted up an empty bottle from the ground, hurling it at Heihachi. Heihachi blinked at the girls in confusion, feeling the bottle bounching off his head. Amika pointed her fingers at Heihachi, frowning at him.
"Get lost you pigs! We don't need any more bullshit from you!"
Ayumi took a step forward, holding her fists out.
"You think you can just mock us here all you want!"
Heihachi formed a sinister grin on his face.
"I thought we could all engage in a well-mannered conversation as civilised rivals... until you carelessly threw that bottle at me..."
He strolled away from the girls, leaving the room.
"C'mon boys! We have band practices to attend to!"
Ayumi and Chihiro gritted their teeth, watching the twins leave Ichigou behind. Ichigou and Yui continued staring at each other, feeling their cheeks red. Ayumi and Chihiro stood in front of him, blocking Yui's view.
"Every time we see the likes of you, we get easily disgusted."
"Leave now if you have nothing better to say!"
Ichigou sighed, turning away from the girls and leaving the room. Yui sighed, placing her hands on her cheeks. Poor Ichigou... he hasn't even said one bad word to us girls...
Amika strolled through the corridors, carrying her bass case on her back and humming to herself. After that rude interruption, I say we're having more success in our practices... Maybe... maybe this'll be enough for me to win Kumuro-sama's heart once and for all! She closed her eyes, imagining herself standing on the stage. She held her bass out, plucking the strings smoothly. Kumuro screamed like a girl, calling out Amika's name. My role as the bass will not only wow my beloved, but also pulls him closer and closer towards me... She placed her hands together, resting them against her left cheek.
She wiggled her body around, feeling her body popping hearts out of her body. Oh Kumuro-sama! You shall be mine...
"What are you doing?"
Amika opened her eyes, blinking at the chairman. She moved her hands away form her face, scratching her head nervously.
"Well uh... I was-"
In a sudden reaction, she frowned at the chairman in fury, pointing her finger outwards.
"Hey! Why do you sound like you're my friend?"
The chairman folded her arms, glaring at Amika.
"Well I just came here because you have made one of my friends upset."
Amika momentarily blinked at the chairman, feeling her rage disappeared.
"What... what are you on about?"
The chairman took a step forward.
"Shiomiya Shiori. Does that ring a bell to you?"
Amika's eyes squinted, feeling her brain scratched by the sharp names. I see now... this girl form the library is now trying to use her friend to attack me... it won't work since he has my influence...
"What about her?"
The chairman formed a sinister grin.
"I would understand if you have a huge trouble winning that cat-haired guy's heart. It's sometimes not easy for anyone to do so... but preventing him from seeing anyone at his free will..."
Her grin disappeared, allowing her to use her stern voice.
"Only heartless witches would do something like that, following their jealousy to accomplish such goals like that!"
Amika clenched her fists tightly, gritting her teeth. That nerve on that bitch! Who does she think she is? The chairman's body froze, unaffected by Amika's growing rage.
"It seems like I hit a nerve on you. I'm gonna see that Shiomiya-san will be happy again! She doesn't deserve this kind of rejection thanks to you!"
The chairman turned away from Amika, making her head blow steam. I... never... been this angry... IN MY LIFE!
Kumuro stood near the balcony rails, resting his hands on them. He placed his hands on his head and sighed, gazing upon the clear blue sky. Even though I made the right decision... I still don't feel right about this... He imagined himself sitting on the grass near Shiori, wrapping his arms around her. The more Ithink about Shiomiya-san, the more I somehow like her... I... I don't know if I actually do or not... He sighed, snapping himself out of his daydream. Well... maybe it still is for the best... if I don't see here again... might further confuse her... plus she's better off not getting hurt anymore than today...
Kusunoki strolled through the corridors, walking past groups of students. She turned her head around, finding Kumuro on the other side of the classroom. Her body froze, feeling her heart slightly throbbing. He... he seemed a bit sad today... She turned her head away from him, closing her eyes. It... It's probably nothing anyway... Her cheeks reddened, feeling the chills on her body. She turned her body, entering the classroom. She marched across it, entering the balcony. Kumuro turned his head, blinking at her.
"Ku... Kusunoki..."
She took a deep breath, feeling her blush growing bigger. I... I have no idea why...
"I... I saw you a bit... down..."
Kumuro hesitantly sighed.
"I... I'm just regretting something..."
Kusunoki gazed upon Kumuro's face.
"What... what's this something you're regretting about?"
Kumuro slowly turned hsi head, gazing upon the skies.
"Well... if you want to know... I accidentally found out about a friend of mine having a crush on me..."
Kusunoki widened her eyes in surprise. This girl with glasses...
"What did you say to her?"
Kumuro took another deep breath.
"I have to keep my promise... I have to deny her..."
Kusunoki crossed her lips. Strange... this girl also prevented herself from having him... yet... she still yearned for him... Kusunoki placed her hands on her chin, humming to herself. I never knew how much she loved him... it might be a form of forbidden love... Kumuro turned his head around, blinking at Kusunoki.
"Do you have something in mind there?"
Kusunoki turned away from him and sighed.
"Maybe this girl is right for you... that's all I have to say..."
She strolled away from him, making Kumuro's heart throb. As much as the truth hurts... maybe I need to do something to make this relationship work...
Keima and Hana stood outside the gate, watching Tsukiyo strolling through the streets. Tsukiyo's hood covered her head, hiding her identity from any vicious stalking predators. She hugged her doll tightly and caressed its hair carefully. Hana turned her head facing Keima, pointing her fingers at Tsukiyo.
"She seemed to be walking by herself."
Keima slowly nodded her head.
"It's interesting how her body's covered like this often... I wonder if she's feeling hot and stuffy inside..."
Hana's eyes shifted to Ryou and Kyo, strolling away from Keima.
"I'll meet you back at your house when you're done."
Keima lifted his hand up, gazing upon his watch. Heihachi's a bit late there... I wonder what's keeping him this long... Suddenly, his shoulder felt heavy, forcing him to turn his head. He widened his eyes, gazing upn Hinoki's cheery face.
"Long time, no see kid!"
His eyes twitched, feeling his body trembling. What the? Why is here again? I thought she left this town for good! Hinoki leaned forward, gazing upon his scared face.
"What's the matter? You seemed to be worked up!"
He slowly turned his head away form Hinoki, lowering his eyes.
"What do you want? Didn't you leave ehre for good?"
She closed her eyes and shrugged.
"I would actually do that... if it wasn't for my dear sister not having a boyfriend yet..."
Keima gritted his teeth, feeling annoyed. So wait... she needs my help? Why can't she choose someone else?
"There's no need to worry about your sister... she's fine without a partner... besides, I don't have a girlfriend, and I'm fine with myself as well."
Hinoki shook her head in disappointment.
"At this rate, I also need to help a fan of mine get a girl for himself!"
Keima leaned towards her, gritting her teeth.
"I DON'T NEED ONE!"
Hinoki closed her eyes, pushed her hands back and forth.
"Okay, okay then! No need to get worked up there, Keima!"
Hinoki placed her hands on Keima's shoulders, dispelling his rage and forming a serious face.
"Let's get to point for now. I want you to get my sister with Kumuro. I know too well that' he's a perfect candidate for her."
Keima closed his eyes and sighed. She's a bit too naive and stubborn for this, huh?
"One slight problem... Kumuro had made an oath to his friend. There's nothing much I can do there."
Hinoki leaned her head towards his, making him widen his eyes in fear.
"Come on! I don't think this oath is that serious! Besides, my dear sister needs him more than anyone else! Can't you convince him about it? You are his friend after all!"
Keima stepped away from Hinoki and groaned.
"If you're just gonna keep begging to me, how about this proposal: I'll find some other suitable replacement for Kumuro to be your sister's boyfriend. Will that solve your problem?"
Hinoki placed her fingers on her chin and hummed.
"I don't know... I still find Kumuro perfect for Kusunoki... Do you have that person in mind?"
Keima turned away from Hinoki and shrugged.
"Well... I'm not exactly sure, but I can quickly find that replacement and-"
"Hey Keima! Who's this foxy lady you're talking to?"
Keima and Hinoki turned their heads, facing Heihachi.
Author's Notes: Sorry for the delay, but now here it is! Chapter 28 in a nutshell. For the next few chapters, I deicded to ask you guys what you think I should do. And here is the question:
Do you think Tsukiyo is well suited for the manga artist, or do you think Keima is the better alternative for her?
I would ask you to answer your questions in a poll, but due to a lack of interest doing so, I instead ask you to submit your answer in the reviews. You have some time before the next chaoter gets published. So if you don't want me to do the unthinkable, submit your answer and I hope you enjoy this chapter and this series!