This was last Updated/Corrected April 22, 2013. (Some details were added, but nothing major that would change the story. If you're curious see notes at the end of chapter.)
Disclaimer: Campione! was written by Taketsuki Jou, I get nothing out of writing this fanfic save personal satisfaction (and possibly reviews).
Author's Notes: Okay... first off, an apology to everyone for taking a month to update. Another apology to Bakapervert. I said I would never do it... but here I am breaking my word. You can thank Capito Celcior, who had managed to convince me to try to bend my rules and compromise while giving me some great ideas to percolate.
So to everyone who doesn't read the reviews or are just not sure of what I'm talking about in the previous paragraph, I'm referring to doing more than one PoV in this chapter. I promised that I wouldn't, because I thought having two or more was tacky. So if it turns out great, then I would like to thank these two fanreaders/reviewers above for getting me to try. If it sucks... then, I'll delete the chapter (and restructure it to the old style).
I'm almost borrowing the format in canon, where a chapter can be separated in to several parts (usually 4-6), and switch between the twins. However, each time I switch there will be a title to mark the narrator and part title to avoid confusion. (You can think of this chapter as a series of inserts that have been strung together to make a whole chapter.)
This is probably as far as I'll be willing to bend my self-imposed rule of one pov per chapter and only because of the special relationship of these two characters.
This was late because... of a number of factors. At the first half of the month, I was bummed. Then Hikari and Yuri's different personalities were a little hard to write and switching povs made it even a bigger pain. I had to look up a few facts here and there, reread some things to be sure and change a few details in the previous chapter (you probably need to reread the last chapter for them, but I won't force you... because I can't! XD).
Oh... this was really late so I thought a few more days of proofreading won't hurt... because of the length. But no XD. As per tradition I've proofread it at least once, I'll post it, and edit it again later! (so if you see any grammatical or content errors please pm them to me.)
- - - 7th - - -
Pet na Campione-sama!
- - - 7th - - -
Chapter Eleven: Yuri and Hikari: "Kusanagi Godou-sama/san"
- - - 7th - - -
Part One: Yuri:"Hikari"
- - - 7th - - -
It was getting late, but Hikari still had not come home.
I was starting to get a little worried. She had woken up rather late this morning. So there was a good chance that Kuhoutsuka-sama might have caught up with her today.
I wished there was something I could do to help her; however, there was little I could say towards the heir of one of the four founding families of the committee. After all, he still has not stopped from trying even after the thousands of rejections from Hikari.
I wish I had Hikari's courage to be at her side at times like this... maybe, just maybe that would deter the Kuhoutsuka-sama even a little. Or if it was possible, I would exchange powers with her and take her place.
...
Then again, Hikari would (probably) not be happy with such an arrangement either...
She did not hate her power; I felt that much was true even now. She had enjoyed learning to control her power and learning to cast spells fit for her abilities. However, she came to dislike possessing her power once the Kuhoutsuka clan started to vehemently try recruiting her into being their shrine's miko. At some point almost three years ago, she had left the shrine we were training at and had gone home to our parents.
I was surprised when I learned that our parents were willing to keep the Kuhoutsuka clan away from Hikari. This made her quite an interesting topic in the shrine, and a subject of envy. There were quite a few of the mikos in training who wished that they too could be freed from this tradition. I was personally not one of them... but at the time, everyone thought that I did not go home with Hikari so as not to escalate the situation.
Eventually though, our parents were hit with unseen pressures from the Kuhoutsuka family. Our parents tried to hide it; however, Hikari eventually noticed.
Four months ago, to our parents' surprise she suddenly left home and we lost all contact with her.
Before she disappeared, Hikari left a note that declared that she was disowning herself from the Mariya Family. She thanked our parents for protecting her for as long as they did, but she did not want cause them anymore trouble than she already had.
At the time, I had already been assigned to this shine for almost over a year. I lived with our grandparents, who finally decided (after Hikari had run away) to take her side instead of remaining neutral.
Our whole family asked the Committee that agents be sent out to find her, after we learned that she was not taking shelter with any of her friends. But when the Committee's best agents still could not find her after two months, we started to fear for the worse.
We were all in such a panic that we all failed to consider checking on one last person who Hikari called a friend, the heiress to one of the four founding families of the Committee, Seishuiin Ena.
We had probably overlooked Ena-san because she was supposed to be out training in the mountains. And since she received the divine weapon Ama no Murakumo no Tsurugi, Ena-san only came down from the mountains for short amounts of time (apparently to attend her heavily reduced minimum requirement of school attendance and to play around).
But we later learned that for three months Ena-san had protected and sheltered Hikari; while training in the mountains of Chichibu in Saitama. And we were further surprised when it was revealed that it was actually Ena-san who suggested that Hikari stayed with her, to spare our mother and father from the Kuhoutsuka clan.
They eluded the agents completely for three months and four days; however, they were eventually caught when Ena-san took Hikari to the Seishuiin main house (to get some supplies and tools). Unfortunately for the Kuhoutsuka family, many factions and sub-organizations within the committee had decided to end the feud and take Hikari's side. The Committee and the Hime-Miko decided to honor Hikari's request and terminated her training and membership. Any financial or social pressures that the Kuhoutsuka was using against our parents were halted by the Committee and the Seishuiin family.
I was happy for Hikari. Yet, I was disappointed that I was not of any help to her.
- - - 7th - - -
I grew increasingly worried as the sun set. This morning, I had a feeling that something bad might happen. However, these premonitions come to me often. And more often than not it is not related to me or my family.
Today, however, felt different... and I was almost confident that something bad was about to happen or had already come to pass.
Checking the watch on my phone (slightly marveling at the convenience it brought to me), I realize that it was almost time for dinner and thought that perhaps I should call Hikari's phone.
It was then that I heard my sister's familiar voice.
"Please come up!" Hikari's voice sounded very excited and happy.
I was very relieved, but then thought it was odd to hear her like this. Or rather, I had almost forgotten how happy she could sound.
For once, I was glad that my premonitions were very wrong (or unrelated to me and my family). I walked towards the steps of the shrine to meet her and the one with her.
I was expecting to see Ena-san with her, as she was the only person that Hikari talks happily with or about in these past few months. But to my surprise, I instead saw her with a silver-haired young lady and a familiar looking young man.
"It's getting late, so we should be heading back. I would not want to have to stop for snacks again." said the silver-haired.
Hikari's smile softened, but I could that she was disappointed. "I see. I'll see you tomorrow, Liliana-san. Ah! And you too, ...-san."
I did not catch the young man's name, as Hikari had almost whispered it when she shyly addressed him.
The young man just blankly looked at my sister and nodded. Then, to my surprise, he turned his head and looked up towards me.
I was suddenly hit with a vision.
...the mighty king... a youthful hero... an ancient goddess... a divine steed...
However, before I could grasp and accept the images, I heard my sister call me.
"Yuri-onee-chan!" She called as she shook my arm, which broke the trance and vision.
"Huh?" I blinked a few times, only to realize that my sister was now in front of me after a few seconds. "Hikari?"
My twin sister's face was twisted with a slight annoyance, but then turned into worry.
I watched as she leaned towards me and quietly asked, "Did you have a vision again?"
"It seemed like a small one..." I tried to lessen her guilt by telling her how unimportant it seemed. Then again... it does not work anymore, but I have done it for so long that it has become a habit of mine to lie to her about it.
"I'm really sorry..." Hikari said dejectedly.
I could not help but smile at that. As my power did not activate according to my will, every instance was considered precious. A tiny hint could save the lives of hundreds of people... or so our former sensei would always like to tell us. Hikari had a tendency to accidentally interrupt many of these visions. It has almost reached the point where it has become a habit of hers. But I cannot fault her for it her possessing a power that can cancel my own so easily, nor can I blame her for interrupting my visions since my power rarely shows any visible signs of manifesting.
"It is fine, Hikari." I said with my most forgiving smile.
"Do you remember any of it?"
I shook my head and said, "Unfortunately..."
A regrettable side effect of Hikari's interruption almost always seems to be the fragmentation or complete loss of the vision. It is almost as if it were dispelled by Hikari's power.
"I'm sorry." Hikari said as she lowered her eyes again.
"I already said that it was fine, Hikari. Do not worry about it."
"Really?"
"Yes."
"Really, really?" Hikari asked as she looked at me like a lost puppy.
I sighed. I could never get mad over this issue. Most of the time, I do not understand what I see. I wished that I could convey the words that would make her stop worrying about it so much. But as usual, this is how this conversation goes,
"Hikari, asking once is enough," I playfully scolded her with a very light tap on her forehead using my knuckles, "we were only born four minutes apart, why do you have to act like you are four years younger..."
Hikari shyly laughed at that and quickly changed the subject. "Ah! Onee-chan, I'd like to introduce you to my new friends!" She moved herself slightly to one side, so that she did not block my view of the ones behind her.
Gesturing towards the young foreign lady she said, "This is Liliana Kranjcar," then to the young man beside her, "and you've probably heard of him, but this is Kusanagi Godou."
"Kusanagi?... Ah! Shizuka-san's brother?"
Hikari answered my question in his stead, "Yup! I became friends with Shizuka-chan too!- Oh!" Hikari suddenly turn around to face her friends and said, "Liliana-san, Godou-san, this is my Onee-chan, Mariya Yuri."
"Pleased to meet you, Mariya Yuri." said Liliana-san.
"I am honored to make your acquaintance, Kranjcar-san." I said as I bowed towards the silver-haired foreigner, while hiding my surprise at her impeccable mastery of the Japanese language.
There was something odd about her... but (at this time) I could not put my finger on what it was.
But I was genuinely surprised when Kusanagi-san said, "Pleased to meet you... Yuri-san..."
Immediately I felt my blood rush to my face. I am not good with boys my age, and I just realized how much more embarrassing it was for me to talk to one that was so bold to call me by my given name.
"T-the pleasure is mine, Kusanagi-san." When I bowed to him, I tried to do it as slow (but still polite) as possible to give my face some time to recover its original coloring.
When I raised my head again, I was a little startled when my eyes met Kusanagi-san's. For a moment I thought he was looking straight at me, which immediately caused me to look away. But a quick peak revealed that he was looking at something behind me.
I turned to check what or who it might be only to find nothing there...
Was he actually looking at me after all?
"Liliana-san, Godou-san, would you like to come in and have some tea?" Hikari offered.
I was going to tell her that it was almost time for dinner (and that we don't have enough for guests) when Kranjcar-san answered, "I'm sorry, Mariya Hikari. Like I said, Kusanagi Godou and I should head back soon. I'm sure he will be hungry again soon."
Hikari laughed fondly with Kranjcar-san's words. Was that an inside joke? It is almost time for dinner. So it is understandable if anyone was hungry at this time. It was rather rude of her to laugh at normal bodily function... but I decided not say anything.
Hikari's friends left after she asked Kranjcar-san to pass a message to Shizuka-chan. After the two were out of sight, we went inside to have dinner.
- - - 7th - - -
We were all surprised by Hikari's happy mood the rest of the night, considering that she was in a panic when she left the house late this afternoon. When we asked about it, she played innocent and tried to dance around the issue, but I could tell that something momentous had happened today.
Just as we were preparing for bed, I had managed to get to her reveal what had happened (although she made me promise not to tell our parents, grandparents and the committee).
When she told me that she had almost been run over by a truck I probably passed out with my eyes open (or had another vision that I could not remember), but when I came to, Hikari was almost done with her explanation of what had happened.
From what I was able to gather I know that she was: almost hit by a truck, some other things happened, Kusanagi-san knocked out some of Kuhoutsuka-sama's subordinates, and invited her over to his home to pass the time.
I wanted to ask her to explain it again (because it seems that I had missed the most important part of the story), but before I could she suddenly asked me about Kusanagi-san.
"About Kusanagi-san?"
"Yep! You're in the same school, right?"
"Well, yes, but I've only transferred a few weeks after the second year of middle school began and we have not been classmates nor have I met him until today. So my knowledge of him (or any male) is mostly from rumors that I occasionally hear or overhear from my classmates."
"That's good enough! Please tell me everything you know!" Hikari's eyes shone brightly with passion. (Could it be that she...?)
"Hikari, do you..." I hesitated for a moment, but quickly resolved myself to ask, "...like Kusanagi-san?"
My sister blushed and suddenly acted shy as she twiddled with her index fingers. "Is it that obvious?"
I could only halfheartedly nod in response.
"I... I can't help it! He was soooooo cool!" My sister said as she squealed in delight as she held her blushing cheeks. "Not only did he save my life, but also protected me from the bad men who have been chasing me!"
Save her life? Bad men?... Ah! ...Kuhoutsuka-sama and his subordinates. I am guessing that in her eyes, Kuhoutsuka-sama is quite the quintessential villain.
"But I don't know much about him! That's why..." Hikari eyes suddenly focused on me. "Yuri-onee-chan!"
"Yes?"
"I won't let you sleep until you tell me everything you've heard about Godou-san!"
I sighed. It was not my habit to gossip, but I suppose this was one occasion (and one person) I cannot escape. "Very well..."
"All right!" Hikari happily (but not too loudly) exclaimed.
"Just so you know, Hikari, most of the things I have heard about Kusanagi-san sounds really outrageous and unbelievable. So I hope you would keep in mind that everything I am about to say are not my words or opinions, is that understood?"
Hikari excitement toned down after hearing that some or most of what I've heard about him might be negative. But still she stared at me with excited and expecting eyes.
"I quickly started hearing about him soon after transferring in. I was really surprised at how they casually called him 'The Monster of Jounan Academy' behind his back."
"Monster?"
I nodded and continued, "They say that he could eat three or four times more than any other boy."
"That part is true!" Hikari confirmed happily.
I ignored her interruption and continued, "He would seem dazed or would be sleeping in class, but he almost always answers correctly in class when called."
"That's true as well! His hearing is super amazing!" Hikari again happily confirmed for me.
Again, I just continued on the list after she did so. "He seems slow and uncoordinated, but outperforms even athletic club members when it comes to sports."
"He is surprisingly slim and strong... for someone who eats so much food." Hikari added.
"Some have said that he was a cold, silent, yet odd delinquent that attended classes." I paused and looked at my sister, who only gazed at me with even more curiosity. So I continued, "There used to be rumors floating around about him beating up delinquents and bullies, or- in some extreme stories- even yakuza members."
"I can actually see that one happening!"
"You can?" I asked her with great doubt, rumors were usually greatly exaggerated by the time most people hear of it. And although she had confirmed some of them, in my mind, unless Kusanagi-san was a skilled (fighter that was at least half the level of those like Ena-san), I thought it was impossible. These stories were just stories that were made up because they people misunderstood a slightly (or very) different person.
To my surprise, however, Hikari vehemently nodded. "He did save me from some Yakuza earlier!"
I quickly realized who she meant by that. "Hikari, Kuhoutsuka-sama and his subordinates are not Yakuza."
Hikari decided not to argue with me, but from the smile on her face I understood she did not care even if I regarded him as a holy figure- to her, he might as well be evil incarnate.
I sighed and continued telling her more of the rumors. "Some people think that he can see ghosts and spirits."
"Can he?!" Hikari's voice suddenly switched from happy to frantic. It is my guess that she was hoping that his strangeness was limited to the normal society.
"If there was a chance of that being true, then the Committee might have investigated him already."
Hikari's anxiety became frustration. She herself cannot ask any favors or information from the committee now that she had cut her ties with them. However, it seems that she quickly thought of a way around that because she suddenly looked at me with pleading eyes.
I sighed again. "Very well... I will ask the committee."
"I love you, Yuri-onee-chan!" Hikari suddenly threw herself at me and held me tightly.
"Yes, yes..." I patted her head and patronizingly said, "I love you too." Inwardly; however, I kicked myself. I wished that I could sound more honest to Hikari at times like these.
Still she sounded pleased as she laughed, "Ehehehe."
Hikari then parted herself from me, but stayed close to my side.
"Is there anything else?" she asked.
"Hmmm..." I wracked my memory for anything I might not have mentioned yet. I blushed as I remembered and shared this, "Someone told me he has a tendency to... take off his clothes."
"Eh?!" Hikari was stunned with a blushing face for a moment, but then asked, "Just his top? Or does he take off everything?"
"I don't know!" I exclaimed as I felt my ears start to burn.
Hikari's expression contorted into a one of disappointment. "Why? Didn't you ask?"
I quickly realized that she was now teasing me, but still the words spilled out of my mouth. "Of course I did not! That would be shameless!"
"Onee-chan, you're so old-fashioned." Hikari said teasingly. "Guys probably have a hard time approaching you."
"I-I am bad with them anyway..."
"How do you expect to pass on your powers someday?"
"Urk..." I realize that it was something inevitable for me, and although Hikari had cut ties with magic society her future children could still become part of the magic world. Still the responsibility of ensuring the Mariya line had always been with me.
"Well... if onee-chan doesn't mind, I would be willing to share my future husband with you for one child."
"HIKARI!" I yelled with indignation, at this point I realized that she was only trying to get a rise out of me.
"Ahahahaha! Onee-chan, your face is so red!" Hikari said as he pointed at my face while laughing.
Since she has decided to switch from a serious conversation to teasing, I decided to end the conversation here. I stood up from my seat and walked past the sliding door that divided our rooms.
"Good night!" I declared as I closed the door.
I turned off the light in my side of the room and prepared to go to bed. But just as I laid myself down on my futon, I heard Hikari call from the other side.
"Onee-chan..."
"What is it now, Hikari?" I tried to sound more annoyed that I actually was. It was the only way to get my emotions across to my sister at times.
"I'm sure you'll find a great guy someday."
"If you say so..." I am not as fixated about romance as Hikari was. It was simply not a priority of mine at the moment. The worst case scenario was that our grandparents might ask me to attend a few arranged marriage meetings, but still I am still young enough not to worry about it.
Still... I do not like it when Hikari teases me about it.
"I'm serious! Godou-san's grandfather said that they were worried that he might not have a girl who would understand him." Hikari said excitedly.
I decided to bite the bait and answer her, "Am I right in guessing that you are this girl?"
"Well... no." Hikari's voice softened. "I mean... I would like that, but his grandfather was mostly referring to Liliana-san."
"The silver-haired foreigner you introduced to me earlier?"
I was a little surprised by her answer, but tried not to sound like it. I had expected her to give me an assenting answer and ask me if I found Kusanagi-san attractive.
Hikari almost sounded excited when she answered, "Yeah!"
"Are they...?" There was no possible way for me to finish that question without sounding shameless.
Fortunately my sister inferred what I meant to ask and answered, "Liliana said they're best friends, but she seems to act more like his caretaker or even his girlfriend. But I do know that she has declared herself as his personal knight."
"His knight?" I suddenly realized why I had an odd feeling about Liliana-san earlier! She was a witch! But why would a witch, one that was also a knight, pledge herself to someone like Kusanagi-san? Perhaps I should ask the committee to investigate that as well.
"I know it sounds a little strange, but I've confirmed the story with Shizuka-chan. It seems that Liliana-san had descended from a family line of knights."
"I see..." It sounds even more suspicious now... It is too bad that Hikari's own power prevents her from sensing the magical abilities of others.
"I know Godou-san and Liliana-san seem strange, but they're really nice!"
"You are probably right..." I tried to sound impartial even though I was worried.
But I decided not to mention the possibility that Liliana was a witch to Hikari. Just because she had cut herself away from the committee and the Hime-miko, it did not mean that she was forbidden from making other magic society connections.
But mostly, I thought that it might break her heart.
She had just moved here recently, all her friends were in Saitama. Kuhoutsuka-sama had been hounding her every day. So they were her first friends here in Tokyo. I did not want to hurt her over speculation and an issue that should only matter between them.
The light on her side of the room switched off, but as it did she called out to me, "Onee-chan..."
"Yes, Hikari?"
"Weren't you curious about him at all?"
She is talking about Kusanagi-san again? "Curious... huh?"
If I was to be honest, I was very curious. After hearing all that, who would not be? But I did not bother checking- no, that is not quite accurate- I tried my best to avoid doing so. It was probably because I thought it would be very rude to him. And just seeing the great crowds of our fellow students gawking at his activities, compelled me to set an example for everyone, and ignored or avoided him as much as possible. It was not hard, as we were in different classes then and did not have subjects or activities that mixed our two classes together.
When I joined the tea ceremony club and learned that his sister was my underclassman, hearing about him became a very common event. Many of our club members seemed fascinated with rumors, especially those regarding boys. As their senior, although I was a newer member, I felt that I had to set an example to them and did not participate. However, I cannot unhear what I have already overheard. I can try to forget or pay it no mind, but in the end it does haunt me at times.
I wonder if that was why I blurted that question to Shizuka-san a few days ago.
"Onee-chan?"
Being hurried for response, I decided to just answer her honestly. "I was... but..."
I was surprised by my own honesty...
"But?"
"I really am not good with boys," I added.
I realized that this was probably why I avoided it. After I satisfy my curiosity, what was next? I am quite aware that I was popular. Would my curiosity not be treated as interest towards Kusanagi-san? Would that not trouble him? The rumors of him alone paint him as a loner who was more than content with only his sister as company.
Not once was there a rumor of him with a friend or comrade... and I certainly cannot fill that role.
"Hmm... I guess that kind of makes sense because it's you."
After shaking my emotions this much she is going to leave the conversation at that?
"Onee-chan."
"What is it, Hikari?"
"Goodnight."
... I quietly sighed. Perhaps I am just being too sensitive about it. I forced myself to smile just so that voice would not sound strange. "Goodnight."
- - - 7th - - -
Part Two: Hikari:"A bad memory..."
- - - 7th - - -
It was dark... I realized that I was blindfolded.
I struggled, but I could hardly move... I realized that my arms and legs had been tied.
I tried to scream for help... but I realized that my mouth has been gagged.
I felt helpless... weak.
I could hear voices, but that was all. I did not know what they were saying or if I could even understand what was said... but I knew that they were voices. And I started to panic... why?
A man approached... how did I know it was a man?
But before I could ponder that question, I felt a large hand grab me and pull me onto his shoulder.
I struggled and almost fell off him. He yelled something... I can't remember...
Remember... This is a piece of that memory! A bad dream!
I willed my eyes to open and hoped that I could wake up.
- - - 7th - - -
When I opened my eyes, I shot up from my futon and checked myself over. My hands were free, my legs were not tied, my mouth was not gagged and obviously my eyes were not blindfolded.
The reality began settling in... 'it was just a dream.' I thought to myself with some relief.
I re-deposited myself on my futon as I tried to calm the hard and rapid pounding in my chest. Then I realized that I was breathing hard and audibly. Not wanting to wake and worry my sister, I muffled my mouth with my quilt blanket.
Minutes passed, but I still felt uneasy. To make matters worse, I finally felt that my clothes were drenched with sweat and was now clung tightly and uncomfortably to my skin.
'Why did I have that nightmare again?' I silently asked myself as I sighed. I had forgotten about it until now...
I reached for my cell phone and was a little relieved when its clock told me that it was almost dawn. I did not want to try sleeping again... I doubted that I could (after that nightmare).
After a few lazy moments passed before I carefully stood up and very slowly opened my dresser (so as not to make any noise). I used my phone's screen for light as I took out a change of clothes. Then I quietly made my way out of the room and headed to the bathroom.
I took a quick shower to wash away the sweat and headed to the kitchen to prepare some tea.
As I was waiting for the kettle to boil the water, I unwillingly began to remember pieces of details about the nightmare.
Four years ago, my parents said that I was kidnapped during our family vacation. I don't clearly remember what had happened, but they said that I was missing for over a day. I was found near the hotel we were staying at the next evening. I couldn't remember where I was or what had happened, but I can recall bits and flashes of memories.
I had been tied up in the back seat of a vehicle or at least it seemed like a vehicle at the time. Fear was a pungent and hot wetness that was clearly etched in my memory... that I really wished I could forget. I can remember a large man grabbing my bound hands. I think I felt him looking at me then he yelled at someone behind him, I think he was speaking a different language but even if he wasn't the only word that I remember him say was "miko".
I could not remember anything besides that.
An expert said that a powerful but imperfect hypnosis must have been used to erase my memory of the kidnapping (if it was a kidnapping), or that my power interfered with the hypnosis which left gaps that I can remember. I did not ask about it any further, I was afraid that I would actually remember more if I did.
I was offered another session of hypnosis to erase the memory... But it didn't work.
The same expert said that the trauma might have triggered the growth of my powers. He also said that I would have to consult someone more powerful to cast a stronger hypnosis spell, if I wanted the memories sealed.
When the Kuhoutsuka clan learned of my powers increasing, they started to increase the frequency and number of people who would try to convince me to take up the position as their shrine maiden.
They were a real bother. And at one point, I finally decided to stop miko training and ran away from the training shrine... to head home.
I remember how surprised, yet happy, our parents looked when they found me waiting for them in our house. I told them that I did not want to be a miko anymore, and unlike my grandparents, they listened to me and respected my will.
For a while, my parents were able to keep the Kuhoutsuka clan away from me. I'm really grateful for them... to stand up against a rich and powerful family despite possessing no special powers, influence or wealth...
They were really brave.
That was probably when I decided to leave magic society. I don't need this power or magic to be happy!
I was taken from my heavily derailed train of thoughts when I heard the electric kettle click (telling me that the water has boiled). I pushed the annoying thoughts and old memories away to prepare my tea.
...
Time seemed to flow even slower, while I sip my tea...
So after a little thought, I decided to make breakfast today. I haven't cooked since moving I moved into Tokyo, so I felt like practicing a little before I ask Godou-san to taste my cooking.
- - - 7th - - -
Part Three: Yuri:"Early morning..."
- - - 7th - - -
I was stunned to see Hikari in the kitchen this morning, because ever since the whole family had moved into the shrine's residence she has not once woken up early. We have excused it as Hikari's way of dealing with the stress accumulated after running and hiding from Kuhoutsuka-sama day after day. The only time that we were actually worried about her sleeping in- was yesterday- when she woke up just before lunch time.
So seeing her up so early (and have enough energy to do something) was quite a surprise.
I opened the door and entered the kitchen. "Good morning, Hikari."
"Ah! Onee-chan! Good morning!" Hikari cheerfully returned my greeting.
I took a quick moment to inhale the scent of the simmering miso soup and the broiling salted salmon in the air. The aromas alone were enough to dispel any remaining sleepiness in me.
"It smells really appetizing in here!" I heard our father say from behind me, which made me quickly turned to face him.
Our father was a novelist; however, he was the type that tends to write when he feels like it. So it wasn't unusual for us to find him still awake in the morning; slaving to complete as much of a draft as he could before falling asleep.
Fortunately, it doesn't seem like that is the case today. He was already in one of his few business suits and had properly shaved his facial hair today.
"Good morning, Otou-san!"
"Good morning, Hikari. You're up early today."
Hikari giggled as she grinned.
"A good morning to you, Chichiue." I took my turn to greet our father.
He turned to me, smiled and returned, "Good morning, Yuri."
Hikari then asked, "Otou-san, will you be having breakfast?"
"I want to, but I should get an early start. My shi- ahem- my editor scheduled my autograph session early."
Hikari suddenly grinned in the middle of father's response. For a moment, I thought it was because he had stopped himself from cursing, but then I noticed that the container for the disposable bento boxes had been opened.
"I thought that you'd say that, when I heard you wake up earlier... So-" Hikari turned around and quickly transferred one portion of the foods she had prepared to a disposable bento box. "-Ta-dah!" Hikari enthusiastically chimed as she revealed an almost perfectly organized bento box.
"Wow! That's looks great, Hikari."
"Thank you, Otou-san!" Hikari smiled, but then she looked surprised. "Ah! Where are the Furoshiki?"
"They're in that drawer, Hikari," I said as I pointed towards a drawer behind her.
"Oh! Thank you, Onee-chan!" Hikari took out a plain blue furoshiki (a square wrapping cloth) from the drawer, wrapped father's breakfast before handing it to him.
"Here you go, Otou-san!"
"Thank you, Hikari."
Hikari smiled at father. But then she remembered that she was cooking and revealed a slightly worried face. "Ah! Our share should be done soon, Onee-chan! Please see father out."
"All right." I turned around and followed after father.
I watched as he sat down at the entry way to put his only sharp-looking pair of leather shoes.
"Yuri, did something happen to Hikari?"
I was about to open my mouth to answer, but I quickly remembered that I had promised Hikari not to tell anyone.
"I am sorry, but she made me promise not to tell anyone."
The story was shocking, however, if given sometime to absorb it, I'm sure that everyone would be thankful to and probably accepting of Kusanagi-san.
To my surprise my father said, "Is it a boy?"
"Huh!?" I wonder if it was because he was a writer... but sometimes, I feel that his senses are sharper than mine.
"I... I..." I found myself unable to answer because I promised Hikari to keep it a secret, but I cannot lie to my father either.
My father let out a sigh before giving me a sad smile.
"I'm sorry, Yuri. Since Hikari has asked you to keep it a secret, I won't inquire any further... But if something happens, please tell me or your mother."
I nodded and said, "I will."
Father stood and wriggled his feet into his shoes. "Well then, I'll see you later."
I politely bowed and said, "Please have a safe trip," as father departed.
After mentally counting to ten, I turned around and returned to the kitchen.
On the way, I nearly jump when the house phone rang just as before I passed it. Since I was already here I did not bother waiting for anyone else to volunteer in answer it.
"Hello, you have reached the Mariya residence, this is Yuri."
'A good morning to you, Yuri-san, this is Akari.'
Hanabusa Akari is the current Tea ceremony club president. I am a little relieved that I answered the phone. Had Hikari answered it, Akari-san might have mistaken Hikari for me.
"A good morning to you, as well, Akari-san. Might I ask why you are calling so early today?"
'Our group had managed to find some interesting matcha (powdered green tea). I thought that since we had all finished the construction work ahead of schedule, the club now has some time to practice our skills and taste test a few brews before the school closes- to the students- for the rest of the break.'
"That sounds like a wonderful Idea."
'I'm relieved to hear you say that. Then can you call our cute middle school members and tell them to meet in the clubroom before ten? I will contact the high school members.'
"With pleasure,"
'Then I will see you at ten.'
"Yes, I will be there."
With a polite and discrete good-bye, we both hang up the phones.
I then turned to head towards the kitchen only to find Hikari quietly waiting for me by the kitchen's entrance.
"Who was calling?" she asked.
"It was president of the club that I am in." I then immediately added, "She wants me to call up the junior half of our club for a meeting later."
"I see..." Hikari eyes darted inside the kitchen for a moment, before locking on to me, and then falling on the floor. "but... Onee-chan won't you eat first? The food will get cold..." Hikari meekly suggested.
I wonder why she is acting so shy... But she is right, I should eat first. There will be enough time to call everyone afterwards. "You are right. It would be negligent of me not to have Hikari's cooking while it is still warm."
"Yatta!" Hikari immediately brightened up and ducked back into the kitchen.
- - - 7th - - -
Part Four: Hikari:"Invitation"
- - - 7th - - -
I'm glad that my time away from the kitchen has not depreciated my cooking skills, although I am still nowhere near as good as Onee-chan. Oba-chan, Ojii-chan and Oka-chan arrived one after and they were all that I was awake so early this morning. After we started eating, I was surprised that they immediately recognized that I was the one who cooked, although apparently it wasn't the taste of the food that gave me away (but the mess around the kitchen).
Onee-chan was the first to finish eating. She was about to clean her dishes when I told her that I'll do it. She looked like she was going to argue, but then probably remembered that she had phone calls to make and agreed to leave it to me.
I'm not sure why, but Oba-chan quickly hid her smile from me and continued eating. (Or was I just imagining it?) Oka-chan and Ojii-chan didn't say a thing; other than compliment my cooking, although I had this weird feeling that they were all keeping something from me... but I decided to shrug it off for now.
After everyone had finished eating, I cleaned the dishes and the cooking utensils before heading back to my room to change. I then took out some of my savings and proceeded to list down some of the dishes that I'd like to try cooking for Godou-san.
I quickly decided on a few dishes. I choose easy dishes that I thought would yield great portions for a reasonable or cheap price, and still taste great.
- - - 7th - - -
After telling Oka-chan that I will be visiting a friend's house, I was surprised that she suddenly stopped me and told me to take something with me. When I asked her what should I bring, she immediately took out some money and told me to buy some cake. I wanted to tell her that I would use my own money, but then quickly realized that even if I did- I will not have enough money to buy some ingredients later...
I quickly decided that I will to pay her back for this once I earn some money. So I really hoped that Jounan Academy allows its students to have part time jobs.
"Thanks, Oka-chan!"
Just as I turned, I noticed that she had the same smile as Oba-chan... (How weird...) I'll have to ask her about that later. I leave left the house and the shrine, and then sharply turned to the direction of a bakeshop that I liked.
- - - 7th - - -
I made good time with my trip to the bakeshop. I was early and scored some of their limited per day specials. In hind sight though, I should have chosen the cheaper cakes. But something about special and limited just called to me!
I sighed, and quickly shrugged the regret off. It was too late now, might as well enjoy them with everyone.
- - - 7th - - -
The walk to the Kusanagi residence was shorter than it seemed. I wonder if it was because I had been here before (or because Godou-san got us a little lost yesterday).
I rang the door bell and I was almost surprised that it was Liliana who answered the door.
"Good morning, Mariya Hikari." Liliana sounded almost as courteous onee-chan.
"Good morning, Liliana-san! May I come in?"
Liliana gave me a small nod and said, "I believe that would not be a problem."
She slides the door open wider for me and steps out of the way.
"Thank you!" I cheerfully entered.
Liliana-san then led me inside. I wasn't surprised to see that Godou-san was still eating breakfast while watching a cooking show.
"Good morning, Godou-san!"
Godou-san looked away from the TV and finished chewing his mouthful before greeting me, "Good morning, Hikari."
I tried not to feel too giddy with how Godou-san had simply referred to me with only given name. When I talked to Shizuka-chan yesterday, after Liliana suddenly made her pledge to be with Godou-san, Shizuka-chan had mentioned that Godou-san only tends to be semi-courteous and polite at the first meeting. Shizuka-chan also revealed that he was lazy with names and will call anyone he thinks of favorably by their name or a nickname and those he has no particular feelings for by their family name.
Knowing that he does think of me favorably makes me happy, but knowing that he was just too lazy to be polite leaves me in a hazy zone. Does he like me that much or is it far from enough? However, thanks to that I can openly call him with his given name as well- which I guess is enough for now.
"Ah! Hikari-san! Good morning!" Shizuka-chan descended from the staircase, completely dressed in familiar looking uniform.
"Good morning! Shizuka-chan! Are you going somewhere?"
Shizuka-chan nodded and said, "Mariya-sempai called me earlier to tell me that our club president arranged for a club meeting today."
"I almost forgot about that! I should have asked onee-chan to come with me and you two could have walked to school together!"
"Don't do that!"
"Why not?"
"Err..." Shizuka-chan looked at Godou-san, who seemed to be perfectly happy to ignore everyone and everything around him in favor for the food and the TV. "...never mind."
In a way I quickly understood what Shizuka-chan had meant by that look. I wouldn't want my own sister to be my rival... but I also knew that she probably wouldn't be much of a threat. My true rival seems to be Liliana-san, but if she continues to act only as a caretaker... I doubt that a romantic relationship will bloom. So even if I let Yuri-onee-chan meet Godou-san (enough times for her to actually fall in love) I still have the best chance.
"Anyway, Shizuka-chan, do you still have time to spare?"
"I don't need to leave yet. Why do you ask?"
I quickly raised the box of cakes a bought for her to see. "I brought this for everyone."
"Wow! I wanted to go to that cake shop!" When Shizuka-chan smiled, I felt very relieved and thanked Oka-chan from my heart. "I'll make some tea. Please make yourself at home."
I watched as Shizuka headed before turning to Liliana and Godou-san. "Liliana-san, would you and Godou-san like to have some too? I bought a slice for everyone."
"Thank you, I will have some."
Godou-san only nodded while eating.
I placed the box on the table and sat down on the chair opposite to Liliana.
Just as I turned to watch Godou-san, I hear the sound of footsteps coming down from the stair case. I moved my attention towards the half-open door and waited for the final resident of the household to arrive into the room.
"Oh! Mariya-chan! Good morning."
I smiled at their grandfather as I return his greeting.
"Did Godou escort you properly yesterday?"
"Ah! Yes, I arrived home safely."
The old gentleman grinned with pride. "I see!" I'm not sure if he was just a really happy person or if our (Liliana and myself) getting to know Godou was something that satisfied him.
He then turned and called Liliana, "Your interview is at ten, ask Shizuka to show you around. It seems that she's going to school today."
"Mariya-chan, I'm sorry to ask this of you, but can you keep Godou company while Liliana-chan-"
Before he could finish his request, he was interrupted by Godou-san.
"I'm going... with Liliana."
"Don't be selfish Godou, Liliana has a few things to do at school and she won't be able to dedicate her time to you until she's finished."
To my surprise, Godou-san suddenly turned his face towards me. "I'll be fine... I'm strong."
Kusanagi-jii-san sighed at his response. "Nobody is saying that you're not. But without anyone watching you-"
"I'll go with him!" I interrupted.
"Mariya-chan,"
"You were going to ask me to keep him company anyway, and since I haven't toured the school either I don't mind going along. Doesn't this solve everything?"
"I suppose... " Kusanagi-jii-san's almost scolding face softened. "Very well, just keep a good eye on him. I'm sure you know by now that this one," He patted Godou-san's head, "is someone who goes at his own pace."
"Please leave it to me!" I confidently declared.
Shizuka-chan soon returned with tea and I eagerly shared the cakes Oka-chan told me to bring.
- - - 7th - - -
"Now then, Kusanagi Godou, please change into the clothes I had prepared for you in your room." Liliana said as she returned from the third floor.
Godou-san nodded to Liliana before he slowly stood up and placed the cat on his lap onto the floor before heading upstairs.
The white cat was about to follow him, but Shizuka quickly ordered Liliana to catch it. It didn't look very happy in Liliana's hands; although Liliana didn't look happy about holding the cat either. (Does she hate cats?)
It wasn't long until Godou-san returned from his room. I was a little surprised at how disheveled he looked after just changing clothes. He almost looked like he had slept in them and just woken up.
Liliana, without a moment's hesitation, was at Godou-san's side. She quickly adjusted his clothes and his hair.
When Godou-san thanked her, I noticed that her face had a smile and a light blush. When Kusanagi-jii-san and I thanked her she always tried to be humble, but when it's Godou-san she's able to honestly accept gratitude... huh?
She really does like him too.
- - - 7th - - -
The four of us left the Kusanagi residence and headed towards the direction of Jounan Academy.
On the way- to my surprise- Shizuka and Liliana bombarded me with tips about Godou-san. I had expected something like this from Shizuka-chan, but Liliana doing so as well caught me off guard.
When we arrived at the school, Shizuka-chan quickly shoved a large bento box inside shopping basket into my hands before parting from us. It seems that the buildings for clubs, middle school and high school were separated (while the primary school and college sections were almost different campuses) and she had to go a different way in.
"Mariya Hikari," Liliana suddenly pulled me aside as if to whisper something to me in private. However, since we were still probably within Godou-san's ear shot, it was probably not a secret from him. "If Kusanagi Godou starts to act or do anything strange aside from what Shizuka and I have mentioned, please do not hesitate to call me."
"What do you mean?" I asked, completely unsure of what to look out for.
Liliana seemed very hesitant and only said, "You'll probably learn of or encounter it sooner or later," before heading off to her interview without answering my question.
I was a little puzzled by it... but I'm guessing this was Liliana's way of keeping most of Godou-san for herself. Though, she did say that I might learn or see it for myself sometime... I wonder what it could be?
"Hikari..."
I was snapped out of my thoughts when Godou-san called my name.
"What is it?" I asked with a smile, as I tried to hide my discontent over Liliana keeping me in the dark.
Instead of answering, I heard a rather loud gurgling growl coming from Godou-san's stomach. I was a little surprised. Didn't he just finish eating?
"Hungry?" I asked. He nodded immediately.
I then suggested that we find a vending machine for drinks and move to quiet shady area.
- - - 7th - - -
Godou-san directed me towards the vending machine by gymnasium and sports field. It was stocked mostly with energy drinks and canned juices. Since Godou-san seems to need a lot of calories, I bought a bottle of energy drink for him and a can of orange juice for myself.
We then sat on a bench under a tree that had a good view of the field. I unpacked a bento box for him, which looked like a full-sized lunch (opening it revealed even more food than I expected). I handed him the box and chopsticks, then opening his drink and set it beside him while he started eating.
I opened my can of juice and watched him eat from the corner of my eye. Every now and then I looked around to get familiar with the school's outer layout. Sometimes I pretended to watch what seemed to be the school's soccer club as they practiced.
But most of the time, I found my eyes watching Godou-san lips. All of a sudden, Godou-san stopped eating.
Was he full?
I was nearly surprised when he turned towards me, picked up a slice of sweet omelet and presented to me.
"Hikari... Ah..."
If I wasn't blushing when he offered to feed me... I was blushing now. I wasn't really hungry; I just had a slice of cake a little while ago. But I can't refuse this chance!
I swallowed the excess saliva that (I just realized) had built up in my mouth before opening it for him. He fed me the sweet omelet. I was sure that my tongue accidentally touched his chopsticks, and if I wasn't sure of it then- I was sure of it when his chopsticks slid out from between my lips.
AH! I just had an indirect kiss with Godou-san! I'm so happy, I can't taste anything!
"Is it... good?"
I could only nod and hummed a sort of 'yes' to him as I chewed the currently tasteless and now warming piece of food. I then looked away and pretended to look around again, because I didn't want Godou-san to notice how overwhelmingly shy I felt right now.
I heard Godou-san's chopsticks clack onto the box, then heard the sound of air bubbles flood a bottle as if its contents were being pushed out rather than drunk out.
Before I could recover to look and check on the sound, I felt firm hand on my right shoulder and an arm across my back. It suddenly pulled me towards my left. I nearly screamed, but I quickly realized that it was Godou-san and held myself back... although, I think I just barely heard other girls squealing somewhere away from us.
Like yesterday, I was once again close and leaning on to Godou-san's chest when I heard someone from the field yell, "Watch out!" towards us. Something fell past where my head was just seconds ago. It scared me into closing my eyes tightly. I heard it bounce off the tree behind us, felt it bounce of Godou-san's arm, bounce back towards the tree, before landing somewhere to my left.
I opened my eyes and saw that Godou-san had amazingly caught the offending projectile, which turned out to be a soccer ball.
"Hikari... are you... okay?"
My heart started beating faster; although I thankfully managed to answer him coherently. "Yes! Thank you, Godou-san!"
It was only then that I realized that I was still on his chest. I slowly pushed away from him; to savor the moment and so as not to offend him or make him think that I dislike being touched by him.
"Mariya-san!" I heard one of the players on the field call out as he ran towards us. "Are you alright?"
I quickly realized that he thought that I was onee-chan. This gave me an idea. I didn't want to bother introducing myself to him right now, so out of the blue I decided to pretend to be her.
I just barely glanced at him, before turning away as if shy and answering him. "Yes, I am unharmed. Thank you, for your concern."
The guy blushed and scratched his head shyly convinced by my act. I think I was really convincing, thanks to what with Godou-san just now.
"I'm glad to hear that! It's fortunate that Kusanagi was here with you!" He enthusiastically started conversing with me.
"Yes, I am indebted to him again."
It's only now that I began thinking that I might have made a mistake by pretending to be onee-chan. What if she knows this guy? But it's too late to confess now though... I'll just see how far I can take this act.
"Is that why you've prepared a bento for him?"
"No, I have only provided him a drink and company. The bento was made by his sister."
The guy suddenly looked relieved and elated. "I see! Why don't I-" He didn't get to finish his statement as the same soccer ball that flew towards me, suddenly (but very lightly) bounced off his head before falling onto the ground behind him.
"Watch... out..." We both heard Godou-san mutter five or so seconds after the ball stopped rolling. I didn't have to look to know that Godou-san had tossed the ball towards the guy.
"Ku-sa-na-gi..." The guy muttered with a hint of venom.
But Godou-san just looked at him coolly and muttered the following: "A-kane... Mi-koto... Shi-zuku..."
The guy instantly paled.
"Well then, Mariya-san, I have to get back to practice." He stuttered as he shockingly picked up the ball. He then said, "I'll be seeing you," before rushing back into the field.
I breathed out a sigh of relief.
"Hikari... Drama club?"
With a few seconds of thought, I concluded that Godou-san was asking if I was a member of the drama club.
"No, I just know my sister very well."
"Hmmm..." I thought Godou-san would follow-up the question, but just resumed eating after wiping the dirt off his hand on the leg of his pants.
- - - 7th - - -
Part Five: Yuri:"Another"
- - - 7th - - -
Being the first to arrive in the clubroom, I decided to start setting up for Akari's plans. I brought out some of our spring water bottles from storage and washed our tea cups and utensils.
A few minutes later, other members started arriving and helped with the organization. Just a few minutes before the agreed time, Shizuka-san arrived in the clubroom. She happily greeted everyone in the room before walking up to me.
"Mariya-sempai," I turned my attention from my task to her as she struggled to eloquently say, "I- have become acquainted with your twin sister."
I smiled. "Hikari has mentioned it to me. She initially hoped to surprise everyone when the school year started, but it seems that you have found out already."
Shizuka smiled understandingly.
"Shizuka-san, do you know the whole story of how my sister met your older brother?"
"Not really, she had said that onii-chan saved her from yakuza."
She actually said that?! Hikari, why must you exaggerate? I did my best to keep myself from sighing with some exasperation.
"Is that right?"
I was almost relieved for Kuhoutsuka-sama when Shizuka said, "she's probably exaggerating though."
"Really? Why how do you know?"
"Well, this area isn't really profitable for them. Occasionally you might see someone who looks like one, but they're usually doing it as fashion." I was a little surprised to know that Shizuka knew that. I myself only know because of Committee makes an effort to secure areas that are close to shines and powerful lands.
"But I'm guessing that Hikari-san mistook delinquents for Yakuza members." Shizuka added.
I considered telling her that Hikari was just exaggerating the circumstances. But I don't know how I would explain why Hikari was being chased by people who she abhors enough to label as Yakuza. So I decided not to say anything more about the subject and switched topics.
"Did your brother say anything?"
"My brother rarely says anything." I quickly picked up on the humorous sarcasm in her tone and lightly laughed with her. Now that she's mentioned it, I do recall hearing a rumor about him rarely talking.
The door of the club room suddenly opened letting in the rather loud and almost incoherent conversation of incoming tea club members. But one thing I did hear one thing, my family name mentioned with such excitement that I thought they were calling me.
"Yes?" I replied to them.
Five or six female heads snapped to face me. "Mariya-san!?"
"Yes?" I replied again.
Confusion quickly colored their eyes as they turned to each other, as if hoping someone had some sort of answer to give.
"Is something wrong?" I asked.
"Uh... we... just saw you with Shizuka-chan's older brother just moments ago."
"Ah! I have not mentioned it before so it is no surprise that you were all shocked by the discovery... The one you just saw is my younger twin sister, Hikari." I bowed my head and added, "I apologize for not mentioning it before."
"It's okay, Mariya-san," said one of the girls.
Another girl followed, "That's right! It wasn't the bad kind of surprise."
"I am relieved to hear that." I told them.
"But now we're even more curious."
"Regarding what?"
"Hmm..." The girls seemed hesitant for a moment, but soon resolved themselves to say what they had in their mind. "Well, Shizuka-san's brother and your sister looked rather intimate earlier.
"Is that so?" I did not know how to respond to that.
"Anything you can tell us, Mariya-san?" I wasn't surprised that they worded their question like that. They knew that I do not participate in the propagation of rumors (over hearing them is completely different thing).
I unconsciously looked over to Shizuka-san, who just subtly shrugged as she too was probably unsure of the proper response to give them.
However, I soon decided to give them a safe answer. "Kusanagi-san and my sister were only recently acquainted."
The girls lit up in excitement. "Does she like Kusanagi?"
Again I chose my words to form an ambiguously safe answer based on the truth as I know it. "She seems to think favorably of him."
The girls squealed in delight. Ordinarily I would almost never ask them about what was eliciting such a response; however, this was about Hikari. "Did something happen between her and Kusanagi-san?"
"Yes!" They enthusiastically answered before recollecting what had happened for Shizuka-san and me.
...
Shizuka-san had soon covered half her face with her hand in embarrassment. Even I felt a little warm after learning how intimate my sister had been with a young man she met only yesterday. I was a little relieved that I was at least able to clear up the misunderstanding with my club mates. However, it was little comfort knowing that many will think that I am the one who was with Kusanagi-san.
- - - 7th - - -
The club somehow got back on track when its president arrived, although I occasionally heard my name being whispered along with Kusanagi-san's. I distracted myself it by pouring all my attention into my tasks, which seemed to work.
- - - 7th - - -
It was an hour past noon that our club meeting ended, which I think was earlier than expected. We were able to quickly decide on which brand we liked best and planned on using for the start of the coming new term. Some members needed extra practice with brewing, but only a few senior members were needed to tutor and supervise them.
Akari-san insisted that I leave early, although I get the feeling that she is subtly telling me to find Hikari and sort out this rumor before it gets blown out of proportion.
I asked Shizuka-san to accompany me for a little while; hopefully she could lead me to Hikari and Kusanagi-san.
...
It did not take long for us to find them. In fact, we had just exited the club room when-
"Yuri-onee-chan!" I heard Hikari's voice from the end of the hallway.
"Hikari..." Shizuka-san and I watched as Hikari, Kusanagi-san and Kranjcar-san walked towards us. "Do not yell in the hallway."
"Ahaha... sorry." Hikari half heartedly apologized with good humor.
I tried not to sigh as I turned my attention towards Kusanagi-san and Kranjcar-san. "Good day to you, Kranjcar-san, Kusanagi-san."
"Good afternoon, Mariya Yuri." Kranjcar-san returned my greeting with a strong air of formality. I tried to relax, but I had a feeling she has realized (or had suspected) that I knew she was a witch.
But to my surprise, Kusanagi-san's greeting was a lot more casual. He just uttered a word and a name. "Hello... Yuri..."
I blushed instantly, unsure of how to react to such candor. Fortunately, Shizuka-san made a scene for me. "Onii-chan! I've told you before, call people by their family names and with an honorific!"
To the surprise of everyone (including the other students in the hall and by the clubroom doors), Kusanagi-san just said, "Too... troublesome."
Shizuka-san then launched a full-blown lecture on propriety, but it was obviously falling on deaf ears (figuratively speaking). However, Shizuka-san's rant allowed me some time to calm myself.
"Now, now, Shizuka-san, it is fine. He is not being rude to be malicious is he?"
"Well... no."
"Then can you let it go for now? We are attracting too much attention."
"Ah... I'm sorry."
"It is fine." I then turned to Kusanagi-san, but just as my eyes met his eyes a familiar sensation gripped me.
Almost instantly I realized that I was about to have a vision... a strong one at that. But I cannot receive it right now. I then realized my fortune, Hikari was here! Our proximity was enough to delay the reception. I darted my eyes towards her and hoped that she would understand.
I was relieved when Hikari darted from Kusanagi-san's side towards me. I pretended to feel dizzy as Hikari caught me; her touch instantly dispelled the vision. "Onee-chan! Are you okay?"
"Yes... just a little dizzy..." I was pretending at first, but now my spirit energy was forcibly unbalanced internally and externally causing it to uncontrollably coarse through my body and made me feel lightheaded for real. (It was like standing too fast when sitting in seiza, only three times worse.)
Hikari leaned towards me and very, very soflty whispered, "Did you get another vision?"
I apologetically smiled and quietly replied, "I am glad that you were close by, Hikari."
Hikari returned my smile looking quite relieved herself, but she quickly pretended to be cheerful- no wait!- that smile-
"Is that all... If you're hungry you should say so, onee-chan!" she loudly said in a mischievous voice. "It's nothing to be embarrassed about."
To my surprise, she gets an odd ally in the form of Kusanagi-san. "That's right..."
Fortunately, I wasn't alone myself.
"Onii-chan! Be quiet!" Shizuka-san immediately countered.
And to our surprise, many of our members came forward and immediately invited me and Shizuka-san to join them for a late lunch.
I turned my attention to Hikari once more and asked if she had eaten lunch. She quickly nodded and said, "I sent you a text message earlier, but you didn't answer."
"Really?" I opened up my school bag and fished the phone from an inner pocket. Opening it up, I see several messages from Hikari. "I am sorry, I had forgotten to check."
"It's fine! I know you're still not used to having one."
I silently apologized again as I continued scrolling through my newly received messages. It was then that I saw a message from an unknown sender. The message also notified me that it was received before I left home. Curious as to its contents, I opened the message.
'Mariya Yuri-san, I hope that you've become accustomed to your phone and that you are reading this message before mid afternoon. We need your assistance. I will be sending someone to your home to fill give you the details. I am hoping that you are not busy, but if you are please consider cancelling your plans from around that time. -Sayanomiya Kaoru.'
My eyes immediately locked on the name. Sayanomiya-sama is the head of the committee's Tokyo division and the future clan head of her family. She is a high-ranking miko; second only to Ena-san in prestige. Why would she need my help? Her spirit vision is better developed than mine...
"Onee-chan?" Hikari interrupted my thoughts.
"What is it, Hikari?"
"Did you forget how to delete messages or something?"
I almost sighed in exasperation... but I quickly held back realizing that she was still teasing me. "I was just reading an important looking message."
"Oh?..." Hikari looked at me curiously. I was expecting her to ask about it, but surprisingly she didn't. "Anyway, what will you do? Eat lunch with your club members or do you want to join us?"
"Huh? Join you?"
"Godou-san, Liliana-san and I are going shopping." She then leaned in to whisper again, "Although when we get there, Godou-san will be hungry again, so you'll have someone to eat with."
I blushed and this time I was not able to hold back my annoyance. "Hikari!" I yelled rather indignantly.
Hikari just laughed and jumped away, even though I would never hit her (at least not one that would actually hurt).
"Well, what will you do?" she asked again.
I took a moment to consider it, but decided to stay with my club mates. Also I had a feeling that something about Liliana-san or Kusanagi-san is triggering my spirit vision, so I have to distance myself. And there was also Sayanomiya-sama's message... I should return home before the appointed time.
"You go on ahead; I will eat lunch with everyone before going home."
Without acknowledging my answer, Hikari turned to Shizuka-san and asked, "What about you, Shizuka-chan?"
"I want to come back and practice some more. So I'll be staying here."
"I see." Hikari did not seem or sound to be disappointed. Rather, I could sense that she was happy with our answers. "Then I'll see you later, Yuri-onee-chan." She then turned towards Kusanagi-san and Liliana-san. "Shall we go now, Godou-san, Liliana-san?"
The two nodded to her before turning around and leaving the way they came.
- - - 7th - - -
I joined my club mates for lunch as I had stated, then promptly headed for home.
- - - 7th - - -
Part Six: Hikari:"Another"
- - - 7th - - -
Godou-san and I followed Liliana to the shopping district close to where the three of us had met. I have been here lots of times before and I had been saving up my tickets for the lottery wheel. I should be able to add a few more spins after I do my grocery shopping.
Liliana purchased some snacks for Godou before asking me to watch over him while she shopped for more supplies. I was also carrying the empty bento boxes, which made me realize I haven't asked Godou-san if he would be willing to eat my cooking.
I looked at him as I gathered my courage.
There was something oddly calming about watching him eat (now that I know that he has some sort of absurd metabolism). I didn't quite believe he could eat so much when we first met. But after seeing him clean up so much food yesterday, I couldn't quite bring myself to doubt or be surprised about it anymore.
"Godou-san," I suddenly blurted out.
He turned his head from his food to face me.
Suddenly nervous, I almost bit my lip as stuttered in saying, "I'm practicing my cooking, would you like to eat it?" very fast that I'm sure he instead heard. "I'mpracticingmycookingwouldyouliketoeatouch!"
To my surprise, Godou-san almost instantly said, "I'll eat it."
"Really?" I asked, as I tried to hold back my tears from the pain.
To my relief, he nodded and returned to his snack.
- - - 7th - - -
Minutes later, she returned empty-handed. But she was pocketing some tickets, so she probably asked to have her purchases delivered later.
We walked around a little and decided to go into the grocery story. Godou-san finally finished eating and seemed quite satisfied, so he could come along with us. (Shizuka said that if we brought him in while he was hungry or half full he might eat food without paying for it.) Liliana had said that it had not happened when they were in Italy, but she claims that Shizuka's information was more or less accurate and so we shouldn't risk it.
Liliana once again bought a lot and had the store deliver her groceries to the Kusanagi's house. She offered have my groceries sent over. I initially refused to be polite, but then the one packing Liliana's groceries told us that there was enough space in the boxes to fit mine.
- - - 7th - - -
We then headed towards the lottery wheel booth to try our luck. The three of us lined up together, although Godou-san was alongside us rather than in the line.
One after another, those ahead of us started thinning out. Most of them got a consolation prize (tissues packets). Some fortunate ones got the fifth place prizes (phone straps, a pair of food vouchers, discount vouchers). But so far none have claimed any of the upper prizes.
Then came Liliana's turn. It seems she amassed quite a number of tickets and picked up prizes from 5th rank up until the 2nd. When it came to the last ticket, Godou-san suddenly stopped her and asked if he could try. Liliana asked the clerk if it was all right for her to have someone else spin for her (which of course wasn't a problem).
Godou-san grasped the wheel's handle and spun it only once. And to our shock a gold ball (with a number 1 painted on it) fell out of the wheel's hole.
The clerk rang the bell in his hand very loudly and yelled, "Congratulations! First Prize A!"
Everyone's eyes darted quickly to the prize board. The First Prize A was a hot spring trip for six!
"Congra-" I was about to congratulate his luck, but suddenly most of us heard his tongue click.
"Tsk... I missed." He stated unhappily.
"Eh?!" I couldn't help reacting to that. But then I remembered the other two first prizes; A year's supply of rice or packets of non-expiring food coupons. He must have been after one of those.
Everyone around us seemed puzzled at Godou-san's reaction as well, although Liliana seemed to be smiling.
A second clerk ushered Liliana (and Godou) to one side, to allow me to advance into the line, while they gave the details Liliana the details of the hot spring prize. I spun the wheel a few times and only came up with a fifth place prize at best.
When it came to my last ticket, I remembered Godou-san's disappointment over his spin and I decided to offer it to Godou-san.
"Godou-san, would you like to have one more try?" I said as I offered the lottery wheel's handle to him.
The clerk looked apprehensive, I can't blame him as Godou-san did get a first prize on his only try, but there was nothing in the rules that said anything about who had to do the spin.
Godou-san walked over from Liliana's side, gripped the handle, and then suddenly spun the wheel very fast. I counted at least ten, but immediately lost count after that. He then let go and left the wheel to stop on its own. When it finally slowed down, a golden ball popped out again (this time it had the number two painted on).
The clerk once again rang the bell in his hand very loudly and yelled, "Congratulations! First Prize B!"
I immediately looked at Godou, and saw him pump his fist in victory. I looked over the prize board and saw that he had won the free meal vouchers (worth about six months of free meals from just about every food shop in this shopping street and some other popular shops outside of the street).
The clerk that had asked Liliana to move to the side quickly called me over to her and asked me to sign a few things before handing me my prize. I then turned to Godou-san and handed the bundles of vouchers to him.
To my surprise he then fanned each bundle like cards then asked, "Which one... you want?"
I had almost refused, but then a bundle for my favorite desert shop. There were still a lot of items I haven't tried there yet, and they were quite expensive so that bundle alone would be enough to make me happy.
I reached for it slowly, as some part of my mind was still against or at least shy about taking it, but eventually pulled it out from the collection.
"Is that... enough?" he asked.
I quickly nodded, although in the back of my mind I was already thinking of new ways to balance my calorie intake.
Godou-san then turned to Liliana and asked her if she wanted anything. I expected her to choose something, but she quickly declined.
Using the tickets, Liliana-san purchased- or rather- redeemed a two hotdogs for Godou-san, which he ate on the way back to his home.
- - - 7th - - -
While Godou-san was eating Liliana slowed her paced. I realized that she was asking me to adjust to her pace for a bit so that we could talk without Godou-san in between us.
"Mariya Hikari, are you free this weekend or sometime next week?"
"Well other than trying to avoid that guy and his thugs, I don't really have much to do, other than wait the school term to start. Why?"
"It's about the hot spring reservation that Kusanagi Godou had won; I am considering asking, Kusanagi Ichiro and Shizuka-san to join us to thank them for letting me stay in their home for a while. And since the reservation was for a party of six, I thought you and your sister might want to join us."
"I'll definitely go!" I said excitedly. "But I'll have to ask Yuri-onee-chan if she wants to come along."
"That's fine."
- - - 7th - - -
Part Seven: Yuri:"Maou"
- - - 7th - - -
It was already a quarter past two when I returned home. To my surprise, grandmother suddenly informed me that an agent from the Committee has come to see me. She told me to change into my miko attire before meeting with him.
I was thankful to be given that much of a reprieve. When I heard that Sayanomiya-sama was sending someone, I thought it was something simple. But hearing that it was actually related to the committee made me a little anxious.
After changing, I headed towards the meeting room.
- - - 7th - - -
I was relieved to see that the guest had been served some tea and sweets while waiting, although the guest's scruffy appearance only served to increase my apprehension (for a different reason).
"Ah! You are this shine's Hime-Miko, Mariya Yuri, correct?"
"Ah... Yes." replied as I closed the sliding door and sat on the empty cushion opposite of him.
"I apologize for dropping by so suddenly- ah! Where are my manners? It's a little late to introduce myself, but my name is Amakasu Touma." He quickly slid his business card (which was already on the table) towards me.
I picked up the card and gave it a good look. After judging the card was definitely authentic and thus its owner to be a real agent, I decided to ask, "What can I do for you, Amakasu-san?"
"Before that, please take a look at this." Amakasu-san took out a video camera, pressed something and turned the screen towards me.
I saw a view of an intersection from a several story building. I watched as the image got closer revealing three familiar faces. Kusanagi-san, Kranjcar-san, and Kuhoutsuka-sama, but then I soon recognized one more person; Hikari had her back turned as she argued with Kuhoutsuka-sama.
I watched in horror as Hikari suddenly ran to cross the street during a red light. But then Kusanagi-san pulled her back before a speeding truck suddenly stopped before them.
I breathed a sigh of relief.
"There's more." Amakasu-san said (with an almost childish grin) as he pointed back to the screen.
I watched and saw Kuhoutsuka-sama suddenly choking on something before being kicked in his privates by Kusanagi-san.
Kusanagi-san then carried Hikari away... I was curious as to what else happened, but Amakasu-san stopped the video.
Amakasu-san then turn device towards him, pressed a few things, and once again turned the screen to me."Please have a look at this now."
I watched closely the video was of a dark night. The image then focused towards a harbor when suddenly something shining flew up into the sky. The screen seemed to shake as the one took the video struggled to find the flying object. But just as it did a powerful beam of what can only be described as a dark light encompassed the bright object for a long moment.
My heart was racing. Even from a screen, I knew that the first light was something akin to heretic deity. But then what was the second and more powerful light?
"This is a copy of a confiscated video sent to us by as a good will gift by a famous magic organization in Milan. Along with it was this report." Amakasu-san pushed a folder towards me.
I opened it and gasped in surprise as I read the title.
'The Seventh God-Slaying King, Kusanagi Godou'
I was dumbfounded. But at the same time I felt enlightened. It was no wonder that my spirit vision reacted when he and Kranjcar-san were close by. And this might explain why a knight witch like Kranjcar-san is staying with by the side of a strange person like Kusanagi-san.
"Please, feel free to read through it."
Unlike the times where I overhear rumors in school, I could not resist my curiously this time. I read the document or rather the narration of a knight by the name of Erica Blandelli.
Immediately I found myself questioning the validity of everything printed on the paper. It all sounded so implausible... but I supposed that was why they were Campiones- the impossible existences that were able to slay a god.
As I read more and more, the more unbelievable things seemed to be. But then I remembered all the rumors about Kusanagi Godou. His unusual athletic ability, his voracious appetite, his strength, his hidden intelligence... it almost seemed like becoming a Campione was inevitability for him.
It also confirmed my suspicions of Kranjcar-san. I was not expecting her to be of such a high rank...
I closed the folder for now and turned towards Amakasu-san. "What is the committee requesting of me, Amakasu-san?"
He smiled and immediately answered, "We would like you to observe Kusanagi Godou."
"Just observe?"
"That is correct. At the moment, we are sure that Kusanagi Godou has detected the committee ninjas. Fortunately, it seems that he has no intention to take any hostile action against us. However, after the incident with Kuhoutsuka-sama yesterday, Chief Sayanomiya has decided not to risk his wrath by setting up observation posts."
"So instead the Committee will make do with me, a new acquaintance of his?"
"Honestly... had your sister still been a Hime-miko, she would have been my first choice."
"Please do not tell Hikari any of this!" I quickly and loudly blurted out. I knew that Hikari would be heartbroken if she learn that Kusanagi-san -no,- Kusanagi-sama was a being that could sit at the pinnacle of magic society.
"Chief Sayanomiya told me that she will grant you full control over this... mission... if you accept."
"..." It suddenly felt like I was being blackmailed into the task, but I tried my best not to show how much it irked me. "Very well."
"I'm glad to hear that you are willing to accept our request. We will leave everything to you for now. I will come by next month, unless you have any other special requests?"
I realized that Amakasu-san was hinting of compensating me. I remembered Hikari's request and decided to ask. "Amakasu-san, did the committee observe Kusanagi Godou before now?"
Amakasu-san's deviously squinted eyes almost opened in surprised. "Oh? Why do you ask?"
"Hikari and I had recently talked about the rumors regarding Kusanagi Godou prior... this." I pointed at the report. "And we thought that he was a person that might have attracted the committee's attention."
Amakasu-san sighed disappointedly. "And here I was expecting you to say that it was because your spirit vision showed you I had another report on him."
"Eh?" I watched as he fished out a folder from his coat.
He opened the said folder and began to read. "Kusanagi Godou. Age: 13. -this report is a bit out of date- Physique: exceptional, but flawed with a form of calorie expenditure imbalance. Magic Lineage: Unknown. Relatives involved with the committee or other magic societies: None. Magic: None. Special Abilities: ... I would like to say none, but apparently the one who wrote his report humorously noted that Kusanagi-sama was good at eating and street fighting."
He then handed me the report and gave me a moment to confirm it for myself.
"So he was a normal person." I said with some relief. This much I can show to Hikari.
Amakasu-san chuckled. "I don't think normal is something you can use to describe him even then." He then stood up. "Anyway, is there anything else you might need?"
I shook my head. "I will consider how to approach him without raising suspicions. I will contact you if there is anything."
"You're not going to ask, if we can pressure Kuhoutsuka-sama to leave your sister alone?"
"If the committee had that much power, they would have done so after Hikari got him arrested."
Amakasu-san laughed. "I suppose you're right about that. But you might find this information interesting."
I quietly waited for him to continue.
"Kuhoutsuka Mikihiko-sama has returned home to recover from a near death experience."
"Ne-near death?" Those words immediately elicited worry from me. While I was on my sister's side, I did not wish harm on anyone else.
Amakasu-san nodded with amusement. "The doctor says that he's fine now. But had he been kicked harder, he might have died from the shock or he might have lost the ability to reproduce. Hearing that, his mother ordered him to stop pestering your sister for now and put an effort to recover his good karma."
"I see..." I was a little relieved that Kuhotsuka-sama wasn't badly injured. But I was mostly happy for Hikari.
"Well then, I suppose this concludes our business. We hope to hear from you soon. Oh! Please burn the first report when you're done with it. I can issue you another should you wish to reread it."
"I will."
- - - 7th - - -
Chapter Eleven: to be continued...
- - - 7th - - -
Chapter End Notes:
You might have noticed by now that I have changed Yuri's status within the Committee and the Hime-miko. If you didn't- whoops spoiler! If you did... well nothing. Just know it's a change brought about by some of the non-canon aspects I've introduced into the story.
As I've said in my profile notes. I've decided to split this chapter by inserting a short chapter between them. I had meant to include another two parts. But I think that would make it's continuing chapter a little short.
Chichibu mountain - seemed to be mentioned in canon (part translated vol 13), although when I researched it the mountain became a mountain range.
Japanese Language notes:
Chichiue: Polite way of calling one's father
Otou : Father
Oka: Mother
Oba: Grandmother or Aunt or an older woman
Ojii (or Jii): Grandfather
Random Trivia: The names Godou mentioned towards the random guy that approached Hikari in school, were the given names of 3 female protagonists from Kampfer (they guy isn't Natsuru nor are the girls from Kampfer... I just needed the names for this random event).
Recent Changes:
A paragraph (as noted by Junky) was oddly cut off. It has been fixed.
Whole Chapter Proofread. (Although my faulty grammar might still be here and there)
