Rosario + Vampire "A Confession and a Vampire: Reboot"
Chapter 34 "New Year / New Beginning"
Based upon characters created by Akihisa Ikeda.
Original idea and story written by Gamera68.
Pairing: the real Moka Akashiya and Tsukune Aono
Rated T.
Alternate Reality, set after the events of the now-finished manga series.
Comedy / Drama / Romance
Moka and Tsukune are 19 years old.
...
A/N: Well here is the follow-up chapter to the previous one. I promise there will be many warm and fuzzy feelings in this chapter along with a few surprises. Please enjoy! By the way, this little story of mine has just past 72,100 views as of today.
Thank you all so very much for your support!
Beta by jacoblee0463, train48 and ColressLawliet on deviant art - thank you!
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Wednesday, December 31, New Year's Eve. Bunkyo ward, Tokyo Japan. 6:15 PM
As the long, black limousine pulled up to the sidewalk, Moka found it rather difficult to hold her enthusiasm back for much longer. Tsukune had bought her a pair of tickets as a Christmas present for Ayumi Hamasaki's New Year's Eve concert.
The vampiress was dressed in a short, black dress from Vera Wang that tightly hugged her voluptuous, slender, frame, with a generous V-neck. The hem of the garment rested approximately 20 centimeters above her sexy, well-toned legs.
Since the weather had warmed up a bit, she decided to wear something a little more risqué along with black, stiletto heels on her feet. Moka also wore her leather coat, since it was late December, after-all.
Tsukune decided to wear his black Armani suit he had received as a Christmas gift from her, along with a teal dress shirt and a black, silk, tie, as well as his black loafers on his feet with matching socks.
Tsukune opened the passenger-side door and stepped out into the chilly air. He then offered his free hand to Moka who took it without hesitation. She smiled brightly once she saw the Tokyo Dome approximately 50 meters away.
There was a large LED-illuminated sign that stated "Ayu's New Year's Eve: 20XX" on the side of the massive stadium that was originally built for sporting events. However, since it was centrally located and had plenty of seating, it was home to numerous musical acts and concerts, such as Michael Jackson, Mariah Carey, and Madonna from the United States and the Rolling Stones from England.
Tokyo Dome's original nickname was "The Big Egg" as some people had called it the "Tokyo Big Egg". Its dome-shaped roof is an air-supported structure, which is a flexible membrane held up by slightly pressurizing air, the inside of the stadium itself.
Tokyo Dome is part of a greater entertainment complex known as Tokyo Dome City, built of the grounds of the former Tokyo Koishikawa arsenal. Tokyo Dome City includes an amusement park and Tokyo Dome City Attractions (formerly Kōrakuen Grounds).
This amusement park occupies the former Korakuen Stadium site and includes a roller coaster named "Thunder Dolphin" and a hub-less Ferris wheel named "Big O". The way that the park was built was so that the roller coaster's track could pass through the Ferris wheel.
The grounds also have an onsen called "Spa LaQua", various shops, restaurants, video game arcades, two hotels, the largest JRA ''WINS'' horse race betting complex in Tokyo, and Oft Korakuen, which caters to rural horse races.
Once Moka had eventually found her bearings, Tsukune closed the door behind her and slid her hand into his. The chauffeur pulled away from the duo until he was needed once again after the concert was finished at 9 PM.
Tsukune decided that they head out early to avoid any long lines, even though their seats were prearranged according to the row and seat numbers printed on their tickets.
…
"All set Moka?" he asked as they walked up towards the main entrance. She smiled brightly and muttered a quick 'yes', her features slightly tinted flush.
There were two, individual lines. The one on the left was marked as "general admission" and the one on the far right was designated as "VIP admission". Once they approached the stadium, Tsukune led his fiancée towards the far right, line, which was devoid of anyone else except an attendant, compared to its counterpart several meters away.
"Tsukune, where are we going?" Moka asked with a quirked brow as she noticed that they did not go to the general admission line.
"You'll see in a minute," was his ambiguous reply. Once they approached the usher, Moka opened her purse and searched for their tickets, which were safely stored away. Once she located them a moment later, she handed them to the kind woman who served as the usher.
The venue attendant took their tickets and then stamped them, and slid each of them into a clear, plastic, sleeve that was attached to a red, cloth, lanyard. Printed on the lanyard itself in white was the name of the concert along with the time, date, and location.
On the front of the plastic sleeve was printed "VIP" in bold, red letters.
"Tsukune, what does 'VIP' mean?" Moka asked once they were finished putting their lanyards around their necks.
"Very important person," he replied as he held her hand and led her towards a door that said "VIP only". He held his lanyard up to a small, wall-mounted, electronic panel, which lit up green once it 'read' his backstage pass.
The door in front of him unlocked with a soft 'click'. One of the black-clad bouncers on duty just nodded to the pair as they opened the heavy, metal, door and walked through it. It then closed behind them a moment later and locked itself with another 'click'.
…
The pair then walked down a short, narrow corridor that was lined with several, wooden doors on the left-hand side. When Tsukune found the correct door, he gently tapped on it.
A white placard was affixed to the face of the door that read 浜崎あゆみ in simple hiragana.
Moka nearly fainted once she finally realized where they were and why Tsukune acted so secretive in the first place.
"Pardon the intrusion," Tsukune said as they walked into Ayumi Hamasaki dressing room.
"Oh, welcome. Please, come in," Ayumi greeted with a bright smile. She was dressed in a simple, fuzzy, white robe. Her long, wavy hair was dyed dark blonde with lighter, blonde highlights. She smiled when she saw how nervous Moka was.
"My name is Tsukune Aono and this is my fiancée, Moka Akashiya," Tsukune said with a bow in typical, Japanese, fashion. Ayumi bowed likewise. Moka nearly fell over when she bowed, as she was rendered temporarily incoherent and had not an inkling of what to say to the Queen of pop.
"Akashiya, you say? Where have I heard that name before?" Ayumi asked herself once she heard the unusual name.
"You'll have to forgive Moka. She's a really big fan of yours," Tsukune replied with a sweat-drop.
"Oh, don't worry about it. I get that all the time. Hello, Miss Akashiya, it's very nice to meet you," Ayumi said as she approached the very beautiful, but somewhat shy, younger, woman and heartily shook her right hand.
"Oh my… you're… you're really you," Moka managed to sputter out when Ayumi came much closer to her. Moka began to profusely panic upon her near approximation and instantly felt lightheaded. It was a bit much to handle; she had just met her favorite singer, Ayumi Hamasaki. How else would she react to such an unexpected circumstance?
"Yes, I'm myself. Who else would I be?" Ayumi joked with a giggle.
"Oh my kami…" Moka said as she fell backwards and passed out. Luckily, for her that Tsukune was vigilant as always, and caught her in his arms.
"* sigh * Sorry about that, Miss Hamasaki. I guess this was all too much for her," Tsukune said as he scooped her up in his arms. Ayumi motioned for him to lay Moka down on a dark red, microfiber couch off to the left-hand side of her dressing room.
"It's fine, Mister Aono. Um, she said her last name is Akashiya, correct?"
"That's right. Do you know her?" he asked as he sat down beside Moka who remained unconscious. It was a ridiculous question he soon realized after he had said it out loud. Of course, Moka did not know Ayumi. She would not have fainted if she had otherwise, right?
"Well no, not directly. My manager mentioned to me a few months ago that she had scouted a young woman with white hair and red eyes by the same name up in Hokkaido. I was just curious if she was the same person or not. So I know of her only by name."
"Oh, I remember now. Yes, she was scouted while we were at her family's vacation home. And uh, Moka kinda likes to dress up and cosplay sometime. This is her normal hair and eye color," Tsukune explained, no, scratch that - lied to the best of his ability why Moka had a different look than what Ayumi had first heard of from her manager.
"I see. Well, that makes sense. I also wear circle or color contacts in some of my music video and concerts, but I do change my real hair color from time to time whenever I go on tour," Ayumi said as she sat on the floor and admired Moka.
The auburn-haired vampiress had just opened her eyes. She had nearly forgotten where she was and what had transpired just a few minutes ago.
"Miss Hamasaki?" Moka said when she finally remembered where she was and that she had laid down somewhere rather comfortable.
"Yes, Miss Akashiya. Are you feeling better now?" Ayumi asked in a worried tone.
"Oh, um… yes. I think so. Sorry about that," Moka said as she sat up and noticed that Tsukune was still concerned about her to a small degree. He silently hoped that the reason why she had collapsed was not due to anemia and that she was just somewhat overwhelmed when she met her longtime idol.
"That's good to hear. It's not a problem, really. I was just telling Mister Aono here that I heard about you from my manager," Ayumi said as she stood up from the carpeted floor.
"Oh, thank you very much for your concern, but I am fine now. Wait a minute... your manager?" Moka asked in confusion once again.
"You're quite welcome. Yes, she met you in Hokkaido. Her name is Yukina Morisato. She's my manager and one of my best friends. She told me she heard you sing at a karaoke bar when she was visiting family in the area several months ago."
Tsukune then reached into his back pocket and took out his wallet. He then found and pulled out the somewhat wrinkled business card that Miss Morisato had given the duo when she had first met them, during the last week of June, nearly six months prior.
"Is this her?" Tsukune asked as he handed the business card to Moka who glanced over it and then in turn passed it off to Ayumi. The singer closely examined it once she held it in her hand.
"Yes, this is her. She told me she had met the both of you briefly and that Miss Akashiya's voice was amazing. She also mentioned to me that she had offered you a chance to enter a contest, but you had turned her down for some personal reasons," Ayumi answered with a slight pout, then handed the card back to Tsukune who put it away where it belonged.
"I see. Yes, that's what happened. I was quite flattered at her generous offer, but I have no desire to be separated from Tsukune, due to those personal reasons," Moka said once she sat up. Ayumi sat down next to her and smiled when she comprehended Moka's apprehension.
"Well, I can understand your hesitation, Miss Akashiya. When I started out in the late-nineties, I was single myself. I worked very hard to get where I am today. Even though I do have bouts of vertigo from time to time due to my Ménière's disease, it doesn't bother me as much as it used to. If I had not moved forward, I wouldn't be in the business for fifteen years, now and happily married."
"I see. Yes, I read somewhere about that condition. It does sound rather unpleasant," Moka said with a nod.
"Well, it's not as bad as it used to be. I'd get dizzy or have fainting spells and would be incapacitated for several days when it was at its worse. That's why I sometimes sit down during my concerts. But as long as I eat properly, avoid extra salt, and take my medicine, I have gotten it better under control."
"I had no idea," Tsukune said. He was not only surprised how down-to-earth Ayumi was but that she suffered from a rather debilitating inner ear affliction, which left her partially deaf in her left ear that she had somehow managed to cope with. He was rather impressed to say the very least.
"Oh my goodness, look at the time. I have to get dressed now," Ayumi said rather loudly, which gave Moka a startle. She then stood up and walked across the room then ducked behind a large, white changing screen.
"Tsukune… I must admit, I am quite shocked. No wonder you were being so quiet earlier," Moka said as she turned towards her mate and gave him a swift hug.
"Uh yeah... I guess so, huh?" he replied as he returned the warm gesture. Moka did not have an opportunity to reply as Ayumi quickly reappeared approximately fifteen seconds later. The pop singer was dressed in an all-black, vinyl, cat suit that was embellished with gold 'chains' and elaborate 'gems' along with a pair of matching high-heeled boots.
"Well, what do you think?" Ayumi asked the duo. They were both awestruck how rapidly she was dressed.
"Um, it's nice," Tsukune, said with a healthy blush, which Moka had not noticed. He had to admit, Ayumi was rather attractive and quite pleasant to be around. Any healthy male with half a brain realized that.
"Wow, that was fast," Moka, quipped.
"Well, since I go through about a dozen costume changes during each concert, I've learned how to get dressed quickly," Ayumi said with a grin. Moka nodded 'yes' once she understood.
"I have an idea!" Ayumi shouted as she ran up to Moka and nearly knocked her over with her sudden burst of enthusiasm.
"And what might that be?" Moka nervously inquired. She was somewhat caught off guard how approachable and welcoming Ayumi was in person. Not to mention, she also had a rather positive and upbeat personality, much like her "outer" self.
"Why don't you open up for me?" the songstress asked with a smile.
"What?" Moka yelped and took a few, steps back. She was stunned at the unusual request.
"Sure. It'll be fun. You do know my songs, correct?" Ayumi beamed with an even brighter smile.
"Um… yes. I do know all of your songs by heart and I also own all of your CDs, including your club mixes."
"Oh don't worry about it. It's fine, really. I'm not asking you to sign on or anything… and I was also wondering if you'd be my friend? You remind me so much of myself when I was your age," Ayumi said as she suddenly surprised Moka and gave her a warm, friendly, hug.
The singer felt a rather strong 'connection' with the young vampiress.
"Oh no… I couldn't. I mean… you're you… and I'm only me… and um… uh…" Moka said, as she felt lightheaded again and then leaned against Tsukune's left shoulder.
"But won't you be my friend, though?" Ayumi asked with a slight frown.
"Oh yes, I'd be happy to be your friend, but as for singing in front of all those people…"
"Well, how about we sing a song together then? Would that make you feel better, Moka?" Ayumi proposed as an alternative.
The songstress could see for herself that Moka had a slight aversion to perform in front of thousands of screaming fans. Her adverse reaction to her impulsive request was a telltale sign.
"Ah… you called me by my first name…" Moka said as she placed both of her hands over her cheeks, which burned hot as she heard her first name said by the one-and-only queen of J-pop.
"As a favor of course. Please Moka… I'd really like to hear your voice for myself. The first song will be "Poker Face". Do you know it?" Ayumi asked as she could tell that Moka felt somewhat self-conscious and took a few steps back to give her new friend some space.
"Um just a moment please… uh, what do you think, Tsukune?" Moka said as she recomposed herself and looked her mate in his kind, brown, eyes.
"Well, I imagine that there's a lot of people out there… but it's up to you though. Whatever you decide, I'll support you one-hundred percent, Moka," he said with love and conviction in his voice.
After she gave her mate's reply some thought, she turned her attention back to Ayumi.
"Okay, Miss Hamasaki. I guess it couldn't hurt for one song. And of course I know it; it was your fist, big hit," Moka said as a small smile pulled at her plump lips.
"Oh thank you, Moka. And please, I'd be happy if you called me Ayumi," she answered with a smile of her own.
"Oh you're quite welcome… Ayumi. What about my dress? Does it suit me to be on stage?" Moka asked with slight trepidation. She was dressed up, no question about it. Ayumi felt a little jealous when she saw just how beautiful Moka was after she gave her a once-over and inspected her evening attire up close.
Well, Moka had a much-toned body due to her unique vampire physiology and years of intense training to become one of the most powerful yokai on the entire planet.
"Well it does look nice on you, and um… yes, it's very… sure, it'll work," Ayumi replied with a sweat-drop as she saw for herself just how curvaceous her new friend actually was with a body that any woman would be envious of to a small degree.
"Mister Aono, would you mind waiting outside and find your seats please? I just want to go over a few things with her before we go onstage. Don't worry. She'll be in good hands, I promise. And I'd also like to see the both of you here after the show," Ayumi said with a bow.
"Oh yes, of course Miss Hamasaki. I'll leave Moka in your care for now. Good luck ladies," he said as Moka turned around, wrapped her arms around his shoulders, and kissed him passionately. After their brief kiss, Moka kindly asked her fiancé to hold her coat and purse for her until later on.
…
Five minutes after, Tsukune found his seat with help from Ayumi. She had asked one of her security guards to escort him to the front row that was practically five meters back from the stage itself, which was easily 50 meters wide. The ten rows of seats on the ground floor were for the VIP of course, while the remainders of the seats in the stadium were for the general audience.
The elaborately decorated, all-black stage was backlit by several columns of multicolored, LED lamps. There was a large screen in the back of the stage that went up about fifteen meters or so and was thirty-five meters wide. On the screen, computer-generated images and animations changed according to whatever music played.
"Ladies and gentleman. Welcome to Ayu's Moon Blossom, New Year's Eve concert. Now please put your hands together for the one-and-only, Queen of pop: Ayumi Hamasaki!" came the announcement over the giant speakers that were set up around and above the stage.
"Good evening everybody! How are you doing tonight?" Ayumi said as she rose out of the floor through a trap door with Moka by her side. Tens of thousands of screaming fans jumped to their feet after the diva had made her grand entrance.
Several fog machines obstructed the audience's view as to hide the platform that brought them up to the raised area that was in the center of the stage itself.
Both Ayumi and Moka wore wireless 'headset' microphones, since the handheld variety could easily be dropped without warning, especially if someone were more than nervous.
'Oh my kami… so many people,' Moka mentally panicked once she saw how crowded the stadium actually was. Over 50,000 people were easily in attendance for Ayumi's performance. No wonder the concert had immediately sold out and tickets were nearly impossible to find on short notice.
Tsukune swiftly picked up on Moka's hesitation through their blood-bond.
'Relax Moka… you'll do great and I'm right here… see? You have my complete attention,' Tsukune told her wordlessly as he waved happily in her general direction. Moka's heartbeat returned to somewhat normal levels after she had spotted him and waved back to him with a loving smile.
"Before we begin the show, I'd like to introduce you to my new friend, Moka Akashiya. She'll be helping me out with the first song. Say hi, Moka," Ayumi urged her with a slight nudge.
"Good evening, everybody," Moka said in a bashful tone. The crowd erupted into a hearty applause, especially the males in attendance. They were overwhelmed by her breathtaking, otherworldly, beauty.
Moka politely bowed after her introduction and took a deep breath. She then concentrated on her mate Tsukune who supported her, just as he always had.
'Please give me the strength to get through this, Tsukune.''
'You can do it, Moka. I have faith that you can. I love you and I'm very proud of you.'
'Oh, thank you Tsukune. I love you so very much as well.'
"All set Moka? Just like we practiced, and be sure to smile," Ayumi asked in a whisper as she covered the microphone with her left hand, since it was on her right-hand side.
"Oh yes. Of course, Ayumi," Moka said with a smile as she recalled the words to the song, "Poker Face".
The electronic tune's volume increased over the speakers as the fog crept down the stairs. Several 'canons' fired huge fireballs several meters into the air that distracted Moka for a brief moment. The pair then each took turns to sing a verse and danced a little bit. Moka mimicked Ayumi's dance moves and caught on rather quickly since she was a quick study.
Itsu datte… naku kurai… kantan dakedo… waratteitai -
Anata no… ai ga hoshii yo…
Honto no jibun no sugata ga… sukoshi zutsu… boyakedashiteru -
Oshiyoseru hitonami no… naka kotaedasenai … mama sagashiteita.
Uso ya iiwake… jouzu ni naru hodo- munashisa ni kowaku naru yo.
Itsu datte… naku kurai… kantan dakedo… waratteitai.
Tsuyogattetara… yasashisa sae… wasurechau kara… sunao ni naritai -
Anata no ai ga - hoshii yo!
Hito wa minna itsu datte - hitoribocchina… ikimono -
Dakara sou dareka ga hitsuyou… sasaerarete itakute.
Tashikana mono… wa nani mo nai… keredo shinjiter… kokoro ga ar.
Taisetsuna mono… wa hitotsu… mitsukeraretara mamoritoosou !
Takasugiru kabe… butsukattara - kizu… wo ottara mata tateba ii.
Hoka ni wa nani mo… nozomanai kara… tatta hitotsu… sore dake de ii -
Anata no ai ga hoshii yo.
…
As the song came to its conclusion, Moka and Ayumi bowed as the audience erupted into a standing ovation. Tsukune was completely flabbergasted by Moka's impressive stage presence and amazing voice once again. She definitely sounded like a real pro.
He promptly stood up and gave her some well-deserved, extra, attention.
…
"Thank you everyone, and thank you Moka," Ayumi said as she gave her new friend a warm hug. The vampiress returned the friendly gesture and cried tears of joy. Moka had made a new friend who just happened to be one of the most famous and well-known singers in all of Asia who had literally millions of fans around the world.
The vampiress was tickled pink, of course.
After her five minutes of fame, she thanked Ayumi and walked down the few stairs, off towards stage left. Moka then removed the headset-type microphone then handed it to one of the stagehands after she had switched it off. She then walked behind the curtain and found the steps that headed towards backstage. After she had asked another one of Ayumi's assistants, she found the door that led her towards the main arena where her mate waited for her return.
Once she spotted Tsukune, she quickly walked up to his side then picked up her coat and placed it on her lap. She then sat down in the empty seat on his left. Lastly, she turned to her right, pulled her fiancé into her arms, and hugged him with for all she was worth.
"Thank you once again for tonight, love. I had no idea you planned for us to meet Ayumi."
"You're welcome, Moka. Well, the tickets were VIP, so I bid on them anyway. I knew it would be worth it if you had a chance to meet her in person, but I really had no idea how nice she was until we actually met her. Besides, you really deserve to be happy. I guess you were kinda surprised, huh?"
Once Moka released him from her embrace, she poked her index fingers together out of nervous habit.
"Well, thank you again Tsukune. And yes, you really surprised me tonight," she replied with a shy smile.
"It's my pleasure Moka. Now why don't we enjoy the rest of the concert, okay? Don't forget, Ayumi wants to meet you afterwards, too."
"Oh yes, of course love," Moka answered, then slid her left hand into his right, sat back into her plush chair, and took a deep breath. She felt as though everything were a dream and did not wish for it to end anytime soon. Moka was quite overwhelmed for how far Tsukune had gone out of his way to make sure that she had a memorable, first, New Year's Eve.
…
As Ayumi put on her performance, she was joined by a dozen or so male and female dancers who would cover her up with large 'feather' fans while she changed into each of her elaborate outfits. Moka was astonished how skilled Ayumi was when it came to change her costumes so quickly.
Moka even sung along to most of Ayumi's most famous tunes, which included "Moon", "Depend on You", "Appears", "Rainy Day", "Dearest", "Fly Away", "M", and "Connected". She held Tsukune's hand and smiled happily throughout the entire show.
Before they had realized it, the concert came to its conclusion.
"Thank you all so very much for coming out tonight. I wish each and every one of you a Happy and prosperous New Year! Good night everyone!" Ayumi said with a bow as she disappeared under the stage via the same way she had made her entrance, two hours prior.
The vampire pair stood up from their seats and made their way towards backstage via the door Moka had used earlier. They had to show their VIP badges to the bouncer who closely guarded the door. He gave the duo the directions on how to find Ayumi's dressing room from that location since it was on the opposite side of the stadium.
After walking for about five minutes, they found the short, narrow, hallway once again. They continued to walk until they found Ayumi's dressing room a moment later. Moka politely knocked on the wooden door and patiently waited for Ayumi to answer.
"Yes? Who is it?" Ayumi inquired as she approached the still-locked door from her side. She was simply dressed in her white robe from earlier, with a pink towel wrapped around her shoulders.
"It's me, Moka," she cheerfully replied. Ayumi then unlocked the door and opened it.
"Moka! You came back!" the songstress replied as she gave Moka a warm hug. She then surprised Tsukune and embraced him as well, much to his astonishment. Moka did not seem to mind though. She was far too happy to react to such a friendly greeting especially when it involved her fiancé. That was just the way Ayumi was, she mused.
Once the trio ended their hug, Ayumi asked the couple to come in then closed and locked the door behind them.
"Please have a seat you two," Ayumi said as she returned to her vanity and removed her contacts. She then walked over to the duo and sat in between them with a bright smile.
"So, did you guys have a nice time?"
"Oh yes. It was absolutely wonderful. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves," Moka said with a smile of her own. Tsukune hummed in agreement and decided to remain quite so Moka could bond with her new friend.
"Thank you. I'm glad to hear that you had a good time. Oh before I forget, I have something for you, Moka." Ayumi then reached into her robe pocket and pulled out a gift for Moka, which she then handed to her.
"What's this?" Moka asked as she examined the item in her hands.
"Oh, it's my new CD that comes out in January. I wanted you to have a copy before they ship out to the stores in two weeks."
Moka then opened the translucent red CD case and examined the compact disc inside. As a surprise, Ayumi had signed it for her as a reminder of their friendship
'Dear Moka, always follow your dreams and always dream big. Also, know that you're not alone in the world, as I am truly blessed to have met you. I'm so grateful to have you as my dear friend. From your friend, Ayumi'
"Oh… Ayumi… thank you so much," Moka said as she turned to her right and pulled Ayumi into a warm hug as tears of joy trickled down her pink-tinted cheeks.
"You're welcome Moka. Now… stop all this crying before I cry myself, okay?" she teased as she shed a few tears herself. Yes, the two women were very much alike, Tsukune thought with a smile. He knew if Ayumi were her friend, she would help Moka to eventually warm up to others. Besides, Ayumi could be a positive role model for his wonderful fiancée.
"Oh yes… sorry about that. I will always treasure this," Moka said a she opened her purse and pulled out a tissue. She handed one to Ayumi who sniffled a bit after she had dried her eyes. Moka placed the signed CD in her purse and then snapped it closed.
"I was wondering, if you two didn't have any other plans for New Year's, if you'd like to join me at a party being held nearby," Ayumi suggested after she recomposed herself.
"Oh we'd love to but we have already made other plans, but we will be more than happy to take a rain check, if it's alright," Moka answered with a frown.
"It's quite alright Moka. I understand. Let's exchange numbers though so we can keep in touch," Ayumi said as she stood up and walked over to her vanity. She grabbed a pen and a notebook, then walked back to the sofa and sat in-between the couple once again. After she scribbled her information on a sheet of paper, she tore it off and handed it to Moka with a smile.
"Here's my home and cellphone numbers. You can call me whenever you like. Maybe we can even go shopping sometime in Harajuku."
"Oh thank you Ayumi. I'll do that. Oh let me write my information down for you as well," Moka said after she folded the piece of paper in half and placed it in her purse for safekeeping. Ayumi then handed the pad and pen to Moka. The vampiress wrote the home and Tsukune's cell phone numbers down along with her name, and then returned the pen and notebook to Ayumi.
"Here's my home and Tsukune's cell phone numbers. I'd love to go shopping sometime. It sounds like a lot of fun," Moka said with a small smile.
"Uh Moka…" Tsukune said as he tapped his wristwatch with his right forefinger.
"Oh yes, um sorry Ayumi… we have to be going now, but we'll stay in touch," Moka said as she stood up and grabbed her coat.
"Well I understand. I know you two lovebirds must have some pretty big plans for tonight. It was so nice to meet the both of you. And I must say Moka; you really have a terrific singing voice. I'd like to work with you again sometime, if you're up to the challenge of course," Ayumi said with a grin as she stood up as well.
"Oh yes, we do actually. Thank you once again Ayumi. The pleasure is all mine. And thank you for the compliment. I'd really like that, as long as Tsukune does not mind, then I'm all for it," Moka said as she walked over to Tsukune's side and held his right hand in her left.
"Well don't have too much fun, but yes. It was nice meeting you. I wish you both a happy New Year," Ayumi replied as she walked the pair over to the door.
"Likewise, Miss Hamasaki," Tsukune said as they both bowed towards her.
As the singer waved farewell to her new friends she felt as though she made a genuine connection with Moka. At least Moka's fiancé was very nice and seemed to support her decision if she ever wanted to perform with her on stage again. Ayumi saw much of her younger self in Moka and knew that it was fate that they met. It was something she could not deny.
…
As the pair climbed into the back seat of the black limousine a few, minutes, later, Moka scooted close to Tsukune, leaned her head on his left shoulder, and let out a sigh of contentment.
"Tsukune ~" Moka said with a purr in her voice.
"Yes Moka?"
"I don't think I could ever thank you enough for tonight. You've made me quite happy."
"Well like I said earlier, you really deserve to be happy Moka. I honestly had no idea that Ayumi was such a nice person."
"Oh thank you, love. Yes, I must admit; I felt the same way until after we spoke a bit. I actually have no idea what to say since her and I am now friends."
"You're welcome. I see. Well I'm glad that you made a new friend, though. Um, I was wondering if we could stop by at a local Shinto temple before we get to the nightclub."
"A temple?" Moka asked as she sat up and looked to her right with a quirked brow, caught unexpectedly by his peculiar inquiry.
"Well it's something I used to do with my folks every year on New Year's Eve. I know that you're not religious, but it's sort of a family tradition since I was young. In addition, well, we are like family already. If it's okay if you don't want to, Moka," he said with shrug.
"Oh of course Tsukune. I don't mind at all and I would be happy to learn a new custom. Anything for you, my love," she answered as she gave him a chaste kiss on his lips. After their brief kiss, Moka then pressed the button on the panel next to her and asked the chauffeur via the intercom to find the nearest temple.
…
Approximately fifteen minutes later, the long, black, sedan pulled up to a temple that was on the way towards the nightclub. Once the driver found a parking spot in the lot next door, he placed the gears in park and shut the engine off.
Tsukune opened his door and then stepped outside. He offered his free hand to Moka who accepted it with a warm, loving smile on her features. After he closed the door behind her, the pair walked hand-in-hand towards the temple grounds where the shrine was located. It was somewhat packed with people who came to offer their prayers and offerings to Kami-sama.
As they walked through the bright, red, tori they noticed it was not as crowded near the temple since the majority of the worshippers were either seated or huddled around in small groups and enjoyed their warm, sweet sake.
As they approached the temple, Tsukune asked Moka if she would like to give an offering and say a small prayer with him.
"Oh certainly love. So what do I do?" she asked as they walked up the few stairs.
"Well you first offer a token of thanks to Kami-sama, clap your hands three times, and close your eyes while you fold your hands in front like this. Then you can ask for favor or give thanks for whatever you like," he said as he pulled out a 100-yen coin from his front right, pants pocket.
Moka then opened her purse and quickly searched for some loose change but found none. She then pulled out her wallet and grabbed the first yen she saw.
"Okay, I found an offering," she said after she returned her wallet to her purse and snapped it shut. It was a 5,000-yen note. Tsukune sweat-dropped and silently wondered to himself if she were trying to bribe Kami-sama or not.
"Um, okay. Just follow my lead," he said as he walked up to the offering bin and dropped his coin through one of the many slots on the top of the rectangular, bamboo, box. Moka stepped forward and slid the yen into the slot immediately after his example.
They took a few steps back, clapped both of their hands together three times, and then bowed their heads while they closed their eyes.
'Dear Kami-sama. Hi, it's me. Moka Akashiya. I know that you don't know me and I'm not really a religious person because… well, you know. I honestly don't know what to say to you or know if you're even real, but um… I guess I want to say thank you for sending my wonderful, loving mate Tsukune into my life. On purpose or not, I'm very grateful for having him by my side.'
Moka continued:
'I know that I was not the nicest person in the world when I first met him but… just being with him and going to class with him every day made me a better person because I know that he loved me and cared for me so much… and now… I want him to be happy. *sniff* That's all I ask. It's not really much and I know that I don't deserve to have you answer my request.'
Moka knelt down on the wooden floor and prayed even harder as she began to sob. Tsukune knew through their bond what had troubled her so deeply to cause her to cry out in public. He knelt down beside her, placed his hands atop hers, and gave them a tender squeeze.
'But I – I ask you to please, *sniff* please somehow bless us… *sniff*… with a child. I know that Tsukune *sniff* would make a wonderful father someday. I know it is otherwise impossible because I was robbed… *sniff*… of the joy of being a mother… by that demon Alucard… who injured me and made it so I would not be able to have children… please. I don't ask this for myself…*sniff*… but for my one and only Tsukune.'
'Please I beg of you find a way – any way possible. *sniff* Even though… even though Tsukune knows the reason why I cannot have children, he -he loves me despite that fact. I know that I don't deserve this request but I am not… *sniff*… not asking for myself. But no matter what, Tsukune loves and accepts me for who I am. However, it's okay. It's okay… *sniff*… because I know that I can count on him to be there for me when I need him the most. Please, Kami-sama. Please. Please… *sniff* That is all I ask… *sniff* Um, thank you for listening to me.'
Moka then opened her swollen, teary eyes and looked at Tsukune. He was right there by her side just as he had always been since they day they first met.
"Are you gonna be okay?" he asked in a concerned tone.
"Oh yes. Thank you, love," she replied with a small smile.
"That's good to hear, Moka," he said as he stood up and offered his hand to Moka who accepted it without hesitation and was pulled to her feet a second later. She opened her purse and found a tissue so she could wipe her nose and eyes. After she felt presentable, she guided her fiancée towards a refuse bin. She then tossed the tissue away in a proper manner.
"I um, had a long talk with Kami-sama," Moka said to Tsukune as she led him towards a bench and gestured for him to have a seat with her for a few moments so she could recompose herself.
"I kinda figured. So um… I know what you prayed about. I didn't mean to eavesdrop or anything, but I felt your emotions quite strongly through our – bond," Tsukune replied as he reached over to her, held her hand in his own, and then gave it a light squeeze.
"I see," Moka said as she averted his gaze for a moment, unsure of what to say.
"Moka… I understand that you're sad, but it's nothing to be ashamed of."
"Tsukune, it's just that I want you to be happy," she said with a tear in her eye.
"Moka, I'm happy every day because I have you in my life. You don't have to worry so much, because I love you for who you are. I have always loved you since the day we met."
"Sorry about that love. But I feel as though I am damaged goods. And I feel so lost, knowing that I'll never experience the joy having and raising a child of our own."
"Moka… you're not damaged and I am here for you like always. You're perfect in every way. We are bound together by our blood and nothing can ever break that bond. You told me this yourself, yet you still have doubts."
"I know we are and I do not doubt that… but I feel so empty and lost, sometimes."
"Just because you feel lost Moka, doesn't mean that you're alone and lost forever because I'm always gonna be here for you."
"Oh Tsukune!" Moka cried, moved by his honest words.
The vampire princess hugged him and held him tight, as she desired to be closer to him and not let him go. He always knew how to reach out to her, even if she held any uncertainty in her heart about their relationship. She felt much better as she knew he would love her forever and nothing in the world would ever change that fact, no matter what she questioned or believed.
…
After the pair returned to the limo, the driver turned on the engine, and then placed the gears in drive. He then drove out of the parking lot, and onto the main road. He then headed east towards the greater, Tokyo metropolitan area.
Moka had pulled out a small, round, handheld mirror from her purse and reapplied her makeup. She then found her bottle of perfume and spritzed a small amount onto her wrists and neck. After she turned off the overhead light, she replaced all her belongings into her purse and closed it shut.
"Mm, you smell nice Moka," Tsukune said as he reached over to her and pulled her into his arms. He then nuzzled up to the left side of her neck and inhaled her intoxicating, natural, scent that was amplified by her vanilla-scented perfume.
"Tsukune… that tickles!" she protested with a hearty laugh.
"I can't help myself, though," he replied as he licked her neck with his hot tongue, which shot a tingle of pleasure down her spine and caused a whimper of pleasure to bubble up the back of her throat.
"Ah! Ahhngh! Tsukune… ah… Oh Tsukune, ahhngh…" she moaned as he bore his sharp fangs into her tender, white flesh and took a few sips of her sweet blood. A few, stray droplets trickled down to her collarbone, which he lapped up with his tongue. He then suckled on her neck for a few moments.
"Ah… Tsukune… ahhhhhngh… ahngh… take me… oh kami… ahhhhhhhhhhhngh!" Moka bellowed as she shuddered in her release. Tsukune sealed the small puncture marks closed with his tongue, which dulled to a faint, purplish bruise that faded a few moments later.
Moka clung to her mate as she attempted to regain her sanity and wits from having him drink her blood without any knowledge beforehand.
"Ah, not fair…" she said with a cute pout after a few, awkward, moments.
"I told you that I couldn't help myself Moka. I guess your perfume has that effect on me," Tsukune sheepishly replied as he rubbed the back of his neck with his left hand out of nervous habit.
"Aw, it's okay love. I really do not mind. You just… caught me by surprise, that's all," she said with an adorable smile that warmed his heart.
…
"Miss Akashiya, we have arrived at your destination, Club Asia," the chauffeur informed her via the two-way intercom system.
"Thank you. We shall call you at the end of the night," Moka said as she grabbed her purse. Tsukune then slid across the seat, opened his door, and then stepped outside. He then offered his hand to Moka who took it with a bright smile.
The nightclub they had decided on for New Year's Eve was the very same club they had their first date at during Golden Week, right after Moka moved to the human world to be with Tsukune.
Tsukune's parents had decided to stay home and observe the coming year in a more peaceful fashion.
"Thank you, love," she said as she closed the door behind herself. The driver then pulled away from the pair and made his way back to the yokai realm until he was needed later on at the end of the night.
"You're welcome, my princess," he said as he kissed the back of her right hand which caused her cheeks to tint pink at the loving, chivalrous act. As they made their way towards the rear of the long line to enter the club, Tsukune held Moka from behind with his arms wrapped around her thin waist.
The male vampire was glad that she felt better, since her emotional breakdown at the temple. He silently prayed for no further incidents, since the New Year was literally around the corner.
Approximately five minutes later, the vampire pair eventually made it to the front of the line. Moka pulled out her wallet from her purse and paid the appropriate cover fee much to her mate's objection. He then appropriately thanked her for her generosity with a kiss on her neck and then held her hand in his own.
After they had walked into the nightclub they saw that it was not as crowded as they had expected since the time was just after ten p.m. Moka held Tsukune's hand as they searched for somewhere to have a seat. Tsukune noticed a few small tables off to the left-hand side, next to the smaller room that was illuminated in blue and violet light.
Tsukune pulled out her chair with a smile. She muttered a quick 'thank you'. Moka removed her leather coat, draped it over the back of her chair, and then sat down. Tsukune mimicked her actions and removed his suit jacket as well since the nighttime establishment was on the warm side.
A few, moments later, a cocktail server approached the couple's table dressed in a red min-skirt with a matching blouse and flats. She was in her mid-twenties with short, black hair that rested just below her ears. On her face over her brown eyes, she wore a pair of black-rimmed eyeglasses with cat-shaped lenses.
"Good evening. Welcome to Club Asia. What may I get you folks to drink?" she asked as she set two, red, napkins on top of the round, black, table in front of the pair. Moka held her fiancés left hand under the table and silently communicated to him what she preferred to drink.
"We'll have two Bloody Marys please," Tsukune requested with a first class grin.
"Oh, most certainly sir. I'll be back in a few minutes with your order," the server answered with a small smile.
"Tsukune, I really want to thank you again for tonight. I also want to apologize to you again, about earlier at the temple. I – just want you to make you happy."
"You're welcome Moka. But you don't have to apologize. I understand that and I'm always happy with you. I want you to be happy too, because you deserve it. Having you in my life is like a dream come true. I love you more than anything in the world. Never forget that, okay?" he said as he turned to her side and kissed her passionately.
…
"Um, excuse me. That will be 2,000 yen, please," the server announced after she placed the two cocktails on each of the napkins. The couple ended their kiss and both blushed bright red from being caught being intimate with one another. They had briefly forgotten where they were at and were simply caught up in the moment.
Tsukune then reached into his back pocket to retrieve his wallet but Moka had beaten him. She swiftly handed the money to the smiling server.
"Please, keep the change miss," Moka, said with a smile of her own.
"Oh, thank you very much, ma'am. If you need anything else, my name is Kimiko," she answered with a polite bow as she left the pair to themselves. A 3,000-yen tip was quite generous, especially when most customers rarely ever tipped whatsoever.
"Well, um...I'd like to propose a toast. To our first New Year's together," Tsukune said as he raised his glass.
"Kampai!" they shouted in unison as they clinked their glasses together, and then took a sip of the chilled, alcoholic, beverage.
"M-mm, Tsukune... thank you again for tonight. You've made me quite happy," Moka said as she set her drink on the small wooden table in front of her.
The hazel-eyed vampiress then leaned over and hugged him devotedly. He repeated the expression of love and held her warm body very close. He could detect her feeling of absolute bliss and her heart that hammered heavily against her ample bosom.
She released him a few moments later since she could tell that most of the other patrons stared at their outward display of affection. However, she just held his left hand under the table and refused to let go for the time being.
As the twosome enjoyed their drinks and each other's company, another server passed by their table with several noisemakers and glitter-covered, party hats. She set a silver-colored "crown" type one in front of Moka and a gold "top hat" type in front of her mate.
Both party hats said "Happy New Year's".
"What are these Tsukune?" Moka asked as she picked up the long, red and white, striped, noisemaker and examined it closely.
"Oh these are used to make noise when the clock strikes midnight," he said as he placed the blue one in his mouth and blew into it.
"BRAZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!"
"Ha! That's funny!" Moka said with a giggle. She repeated the action.
"BRAZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!"
She then laughed again after she heard the funny sound it made.
He then picked up the silver crown and placed it upon Moka's head.
"Every princess should wear a crown on New Year's," he said with a smile as he placed his left hand on her cheek and gently stroked it. A moment later, romantic music began to play over the speakers suspended from the ceiling.
"Oh Tsukune… that's so sweet."
"Well, you are my princess, after-all."
"Oh Tsukune… stop it… you're embarrassing me," she answered as her cheeks tinted pink from his honest words.
"Well it's true, Um… would you like to dance, Moka?" he asked as he stood up and offered his hand to her.
"Oh yes. I'd love to, Tsukune," she tenderly replied. She blushed hard again, as he guided her over to the center of the dance floor just a short, walk away. Tsukune was far too sweet for his own good most of the time, but that was one thing about him that had not changed since he became a vampire over a year ago.
Tsukune then looked deep into her hazel-green eyes; then placed his left arm around her slender waist, and held her right hand in his own. She mimicked his actions as she followed her fiancés lead and swayed to and fro to the slow music.
She then leaned her face against his and exhaled deeply. She felt much better and focused solely on her blood-mate who always went out of his way to make sure she was all right. He loved her more than anything in the world and he would do his absolute best to make sure she remained forever happy and content.
Moka pressed her body closer to her mate as a wave of love washed over her and caused her body to warm up. She held him closer as her heart rate increased due to his closeness.
"Oh Tsukune… I do love you so much. I wish for this night to never end," she said as she fluttered her eyes closed and pressed into him more so.
"I love you too Moka. Well once the clock strikes twelve, it'll be a new year, you know," he teased.
"Oh Tsukune… I guess I kind of forgot, silly me," she replied with a laugh. Tsukune held her close as they continued to dance with each other. They focused only on each other and somehow managed to ignore the other club-goers who joined them on the dance floor.
…
The pair continued to dance for another half hour or so, lost in their own, little, universe. Moka decided that she needed a break as she was parched and wanted to quench her thirst. She ended their closeness and held Tsukune's hand as she silently led him back to their table.
He pulled out her chair for her with a smile. After she sat down, he returned to his seat likewise. Moka gulped down the remained of her Bloody Mary in one motion. Tsukune sweat-dropped and hoped that she was okay.
"Tsukune. I am fine. I was just thirsty, that's all," she replied, as she knew that he was concerned about her, just like always.
"Oh okay. That's good to know," he replied as he finished his alcoholic beverage as well.
"Tsukune, I was wondering, could we... go somewhere a bit less crowded? Upstairs, perhaps?" she inquired with a cute smile.
"Oh uh, sure Moka," he answered as he stood up and grabbed his jacket as well as his party hat and noisemaker. Moka sat up as well and gathered her purse, coat, and noisemaker. She then grabbed his left hand, walked through the packed floor, and over to the stairway that led to the upstairs area of the nightclub.
Moka held his free hand while they ascended the steel stairway since it was rather narrow.
When they arrived upstairs, Tsukune was quite surprised that a few, other, couples had similar ideas. The duo found a row of dark red, leather seats, and couches, located near the far, right hand side wall.
Once they had a seat and set their party accessories on the rectangular, wooden table in front of them, Tsukune placed his right arm across the back of the seat and draped it over Moka's shoulders. She in turn leaned closer to her blood-mate, then settled her left hand on his inner, right thigh and gave it a gentle squeeze.
"Tsukune, what would be an appropriate beverage to celebrate the New Year with?" Moka wondered.
"Oh, um, I think champagne. That's what my parents would have every year."
"Well then, would it be alright if we ordered a bottle? I'd like to celebrate the New Year properly."
"Oh sure. I don't see why not. I never really had it before but my mom seems to enjoy it," Tsukune said as he waved his hand towards the bar and had gotten the attention of one of the servers.
She quickly walked over to the pair with a smile on her face.
"Yes sir? How may I help you?" she politely asked.
"We'd like a bottle of your best champagne, please," Tsukune replied.
"Yes sir, right away," she answered with a bow. She then stood upright and returned to the bar.
Moka opened up her purse and then pulled out her wallet.
"My treat love since it was my idea," she said with a wide grin.
"Oh sure Moka, thanks," he said with a smile. She turned to his side and gave him a peck on his cheek. The cocktail server returned a moment later with their bottle of champagne in a silver ice bucket along with two, tall, glasses.
"Would you like it opened now or when it's midnight?" the server asked as she set the bucket on the table in front of them.
"Midnight will be fine, thank you very much," Moka, answered.
"Very well, ma'am. That will be 30,000 yen, please," the server said. Tsukune nearly fainted when he heard such a ridiculous amount, just for a bottle of sparkling wine.
"Thank you and please keep the change, miss," Moka said after she handed the server a 50,000 yen note.
"Oh, thank you very much. If you need anything at all, my name is Sakura," she offered with a smile then bowed before she left.
"Oh don't worry Tsukune. You know I am well off. I am a multi-billionaire remember? Besides, you know I have already made several investments in electronics and whatnot, so you do not have to be so concerned. I just want to celebrate the coming year in a proper manner."
"Sorry about Moka that but I kinda forgot," he said with a laugh. Even though Moka was financially stable, she was quite smart enough to hire a lawyer who had helped her to decide on which companies to purchase stocks in, namely Microsoft, Apple, Sony, Amazon, eBay, and Samsung. She had already made a few, hundred thousand yen in profit.
"It's alright love. I just want to have a memorable time tonight," she explained as she sat up then crawled into Tsukune's lap. She had noticed that other couples were being amorous with one another and decided to take the initiative.
Tsukune took her silent suggestion and wrapped his arms around her slender waist. She pressed her firm bosom against his chest then closed the short space between them and kissed him fervently. As the couple became aroused, Tsukune slid his hands down to her firm derriere and gave it a gentle squeeze.
Moka pressed herself closer as she wanted a lot more but knew that she would have to wait until much later, no matter how desperately she wanted to sink her fangs into his neck, then drag him off somewhere isolated, and take advantage of him. He would not protest of course.
As the pair begged for air, they reluctantly ended their fifteen minute kiss before either one of them passed out due to lack of oxygen. Moka sat up from her fiancés lap and pulled her dress down a bit since it rode up nearly to her hips. Luckily, for her the lighting was dimmed and no one took notice. She then sat down on Tsukune's right and did her best to recompose herself.
"Hey Moka, it's almost time," he said after he quickly glanced at his wristwatch and checked the time. Moka then waved over to their server, Sakura. She quickly walked over to the couple's table with a smile.
"Yes, ma'am?" she asked.
"Could you please open the champagne now and pour us each a glass?" Moka inquired.
"Oh yes, of course," the server happily replied as she picked up the bottle and then pulled out a corkscrew from the front pocket of her apron. She then inserted the device into the cork and extracted it in a professional manner with a loud "POP". She then untwisted the cork and set it off to the side as she poured them each a generous glass. She then set a glass in the front of each. She then returned the bottle to the ice bucket with the cork on top.
"Thank you very much," Moka said with a smile.
"You're welcome, ma'am," Sakura said with a bow. She then stood up to assist other guests who needed her attention.
The DJ then spoke up and made an announcement over the nightclub's speakers.
"Attention all guests; it's now one minute until midnight. We will be having the countdown very shortly."
…
Tsukune placed his party hat on his head and helped Moka to readjust hers since it was askew. "Thank you love," she said with a small smile.
"You're welcome, my princess."
…
"Ten!"
"Nine!"
"Eight!"
"Seven!"
"Six!"
"Five!"
"Four!"
"Three!"
"Two!"
"One!"
"Zero!"
"Happy New Year!"
The nightclub erupted into hundreds of revelers blowing their noisemakers in celebration. Moka and Tsukune made a toast then took a sip of the bubbly champagne. They then set their glasses on the wooden table in front of them.
Tsukune then reached over to Moka, pulled her into his arms, and kissed her passionately. Moka leaned into his kiss and pressed into him as she savored the celebratory moment with great intensity. Once they ended their kiss a minute later, Moka looked into her mate's kind, chocolate eyes and smiled as a tear of joy trickled down her cheek.
"Happy New Year, Moka. I look forward to our continued relationship this year."
"Happy New Year, Tsukune. I look forward to our continued relationship this year as well. Thank you for such a memorable night."
…
...
Author's Notes: Please read regarding future plots!
This rather long chapter took me nearly 4 days, on and off to write. The stadium in this chapter is a real place and those musicians I mentioned actually performed there in the past. And yes, Ayumi Hamasaki does have the inner ear affliction I mentioned and she is partially deaf in her left ear. She still goes on tour and performs all over the world to this day. I always try to do a lot of research before I write a chapter and the majority of the facts are indeed real as are all the places that Moka and Tsukune visit anywhere in Japan.
Now about future plots: I need every one of my readers to participate and vote in the poll that I will post on my homepage, here on fan-fiction. Please vote, as I cannot proceed with the story unless I get your say in a possible plot point that I mentioned in this chapter. Please see the poll at the top of my homepage for further details. I have about 300 followers and readers who have favorited this "reboot" of mine.
I need EVERYONE who reads this chapter to vote, otherwise I cannot write the next chapter until I get at least 50 votes (or more). The next chapter will not be written until then. I will leave the poll open for 1 week (until July 4th).
UPDATE: Sorry! The poll was not on my profile / homepage as it was set to "off" by default. D'oh!
It's now "on", sorry about that!
If no one votes, or if I get less than 50 votes total, then I will drop the idea and proceed with my original plan.
Thank you for your time and your vote. :)