Present Time:
"So, this is where we will be staying?" Ichigo asked, looking at the house after everybody arrived.
"Yes, this is where you will ALL be staying. It's a safe place for all of you. You're all connected because of the problems you've encountered, which brought you all here." A man in a navy-blue uniform informed everyone. He walked up behind everybody with an older woman who looked like she was in her late forties or early fifties. The man was Akio Tokawa.
"Surely this won't fit all of us! It can't be that big. And how are we supposed to get any work done with all these people in one house!" Pepper complained first, Rose following suit.
"Who are you people anyway?" Rose rudely demanded.
"Mom—that's Akio Tokawa. Don't you remember? He's the one in charge of our case." Zakuro reminded her mother.
"Don't back-sass me." Rose scolded Zakuro.
"Whatever." Zakuro mumbled, walking away from her.
"Yes, I'm Akio Tokawa. I am one of the directors of witness protection. I am the lead on the case against the organization that is after you and others like you." "There are more people here?!" Pepper screeched, interrupting Akio.
"Or are more people coming?" Jen questioned.
"No one else is coming, and there's nobody else here already. While this building could fit more people, you are the only ones to be living here." Akio answered, watching everyone.
"Where is here? What is this place?" Sayuri asked what the others were either too polite or nervous to ask outright.
"There are two questions I was hoping someone would ask. This is your new home. It used to be known as the Himawari Hotel and Resort. But one day, it shut down to poor circulation—and it was in a bad area. A few years later—over twenty years ago, some colleagues and I purchased this under the guise of bank. Then one day, ten years ago, we discovered this small village hidden behind some mountains and a field of sunflowers. This place, you are now living is called, Kakushi-mura Himawari no Tani. I do believe it's the safest place for you all to be living because there's only one way in and one way out." Akio started explaining.
"What if one of those gang members sees someone coming or going?" Masaya questioned, scaring some of the girls.
"For anyone who doesn't know the entrance/exit, they will go in complete circles. Only a few of my closest associates and I know the correct way. Not to mention, none of you will be allowed to leave Kakushi-mura Himawari no Tani. It's the only way to assure your safety. But you needn't worry: if you take that stairway down and turn left, there is a single vehicle for each valid driver—with your names on them. I will leave you each a key before I leave. But anyway. There is a single two-sided road that will lead you into a small town where you will find stuff to do. There is a:" Akio explained before going to list things off.
· Large grocery store
· Book store
· Library
· Art store
· Department store
· Toy store
· Music store
· Bank
· Some fast-food restaurants
· Some sit-down restaurants
· Two diners
· Three schools
· A hospital
· A clinic
· Two gas stations
· Three bars
· Cable/Internet provider
"Before I continue on about your new home… This is Chihiro Jade: she's one of my most trusted associates. She is one of the best therapists/physiologists we have; she's here to help all of you cope with what has happened to you. Best part of her being your therapist is that she and her family live in town; she's always just a call away if you need her." Akio introduced Chihiro, who politely waved at everyone.
"Like I said, some associates and I purchased this building several years ago and fixed it up. My cousins and I just recently updated the building and everything inside within the last two months. No, we didn't know any of you would be here. I just like to make sure it's taken care of. Honestly, I was hoping it wouldn't need to be used. But like I said, this used to be a hotel, so it should fit you all just fine. There are eighteen rooms, each with their own full bathroom. There are four other half bathrooms around the house and three bathrooms with four to five toilets (stalls) and sinks in them. As of last month, all toilets, sinks, countertops, ovens, stoves, etc. are new and have never been used—not once."
"Should you decide to use it, there is a decent sized living area. You have an extra-large kitchen and dining room, again, if you decide to use it. You can always order out as much as you'd like; you all have a bank account set up with ten thousand dollars currently. Each month, another thousand dollars will be added. Everyone will get a bank card to use whenever you want. As for the dining room: that's up to all of you to decide if you all want to eat together, in your rooms, the living area, or anywhere else in the building."
"You also have a massive basement, an attic, and a yard that stretches twelve acres. Outside, there is a pool house with three pools and two hot tubs, a pool house with pool tables, air hockey tables, and various other table games. There is a small golf course, a playground type area, a basketball court, a track and field area, and an area for other sports like soccer, softball, and football. Then, I just had thirty-eight new sheds for the kids to uses whenever they want—with their names on the fronts. That includes the nineteen-year-olds and the twenty-year-olds. The sheds are so that everyone still has their own space. And for the adults who can legally drink: there is a small bar outside as well. It's a little further down the way; there is a path to follow—for everyplace out there. There are maps if needed. And Rose and Pepper: the pool house isn't just for you two: the kids and other adults may use it whenever they please; we will know if you are hogging the pool house. That being said, please note that with the exceptions of the bedrooms, the bathrooms, and inside the sheds, every room, the pool houses, the bar, and the outside of the sheds are heavily monitored with cameras, so we can make sure that everybody here is safe, following the rules, and using places fairly."
"Now, as I said before, there are only eighteen rooms, so everybody will have roommates; we've already got them picked out —and who gets what room. Now if you'd please follow me." Akio calmly went over the building and the surrounding land, pausing now and then to let everything sink in. He was about to take everyone inside and show them around when Rose and Pepper started throwing a fit.
"Roommates, I can handle, fine. But not being able to pick my own room. Uh-uh. No way, no how. I demand to pick my own room! And I certainly will not allow some guy, who I don't know to pick my roommate!" Rose snarled.
"Some of these young people have no respect and think that they should get everything handed to them on a silver platter. Good Lord. If they worked for me, they'd be fired on the spot." Nami firmly stated.
"Excuse me! Who do you think you are, you little old hag?!" Rose and Pepper screeched, horrified.
"Actually, Mrs. Nami; they do work for you. They worked for your company back in Paris—and they work for your company here." Akio calmly informed Nami.
"Excuse us?! What do you mean we work for her?!" Rose and Pepper demanded, shocked and pissed.
"Well, that company you worked so hard to get ahead in was owned by Nami and Toshi. Their names were on the logos—well, their birth names were anyway. Their new names are on their company here, which by the way, is going great. I think you said it was once your daughter's idea." Akio explained, looking from Pepper and Rose to Nami.
"No. As much as I loved my daughter, she had no creative ideas in her body. This new company is my granddaughter's idea—the real creative designer in the family." Nami replied, watching Sayuri, causing her to blush.
"Yep, that's Sayuri for you. She can't sew worth crap, but she drew a lot of the outfits that she used to wear when she would model. Yeah, I know who you used to be. However, Sayuri doesn't really like designing outfits; she prefers more of the other artsy type of stuff." Kish added, watching his sister. He referred to Zakuro when discussing her modeling the few outfits Sayuri designed.
"She prefers to write." Kurogane huffed.
"Wait. You're that family? The family who owns the best clothing companies in the world? The family with the deranged man who killed his wife and almost killed his own daughter, and actually shot his son?" Rose and Pepper immediately blurted, causing Sayuri to have a panic attack.
"Nice going, Ladies. Do you just puke out what you have to say? Why the fuck don't you think before you fucking speak!" Kish snapped at Rose and Pepper while Kurogane threw Sayuri over his shoulder to get her to relax.
"Breathe." Kurogane repeatedly told Sayuri, walking around.
"Kish, language!" Nami yelled while Toshi gave him a thumbs up.
"What?! They fucking started it. I'm not apologizing for their stupidity!" Kish snapped.
"I'm not even going to argue with you right now. Kurogane, where'd you go?" Nami replied before looking for Kurogane.
"I'm right here." Kurogane replied, setting Sayuri on her feet.
"I'm ok. Can we just look around?" Sayuri requested, leaning against Kurogane.
"Aren't you going to do something about your disrespectful grandson?" Rose and Pepper demanded, disgusted.
"No. First off: he's right; you should think before you speak. Secondly: you have no right to comment on our life—previous or present. I will talk with him later. Next: as for you two—my granddaughter and grandsons will be taking over ANY businesses we ever have. So, I'd suggest you respect them like you supposedly respect my husband and me. Finally: we have heard of you two and the work you put into the company—and the promotion that we so gracefully gave to you. Oh, yes. Did you think that your boss gave you the promotion? Well, you would be wrong. The company belongs to us; we ultimately decide who gets hired, fired, promoted, or demoted. I'm telling you right now, if your work ethics weren't so good, you'd either be demoted or fired. Do you understand me? Oh, and one more thing, you will listen to and respect Mr. Akio's rules and have a roommate and the rooms picked for you. Do I make myself perfectly clear?" Nami demanded, annoyed at the two in front of her.
By now, Pepper and Rose looked like they were about to shit their pants as they nodded their heads.
"Wow. I've never seen our moms so quiet before. I like this lady." Zakuro whispered to Michiru, Setsuna, Lettuce, and Tasuku.
"I know, right? I've never seen anybody stand up to them—ever." Michiru whispered back while Lettuce and Tasuku stood there, nodding in agreement.
"She's pretty amazing." Setsuna noted, watching everything going on.
"Well, right. As Ms. Sayuri and Mrs. Nami have said—and asked: I will now show you around the house and to your rooms." Akio insisted, opening the door, and letting everybody inside.
Once inside, everyone's jaws hit the floor at how beautiful the place looked.
"Wow! Look at this place." Pudding and Rini excitedly exclaimed while everybody looked around.
"If you'd follow me please; I'll show you around." Akio spoke, getting everyone's attention.
"This is the living area. If for some reason you should spend any time together, this would be the place. The same goes for the dining room, which is between the living area and the kitchen. This is the kitchen. I know it's big, but I don't know how many of you will be in here at once. The basement is through this door; it would probably make a good game room or something along those lines. The attic is upstairs, but I'll get to that in a little bit. There is a half bathroom at the back of the house. One of the half bathrooms is between the dining room and living area. There is also a half bath upstairs and one in the attic. One of the bathrooms with stalls is in the basement. The other two bathrooms with stalls are upstairs on either end of the hall: one for the girls and one for the boys. If you follow me this way to the sliding glass door. This door leads to an enclosed porch." Akio instructed, sliding open the door to the outside.
Everyone stepped out onto the porch to see the beautiful view.
"Ok. You see this path: just follow it, and it will lead you to everywhere you would go. Out to the right is the playground and to the left is the golf area. If you go straight back a little way, both pool houses are back there: swimming pools to the left and pool gaming area to the right. Follow the path further back and you will find the large shed-like buildings with each of the kids' names on them indicating which one is theirs. Ultimately, they can fit up to ten people in them at once, but they are designed specifically for each individual. And if you go back even further, the bar is at the end of the one path. After the bar, however, are two more paths: one leading east and one west; those are hiking or bike paths. I will let you guys explore all that later when you're settled in. Keep in mind, stay to the path at all times. We don't want anyone getting lost out there. Now, if you'd follow me back inside, I'll show you all to your rooms." Akio explained before having everybody head back inside.
"I have a question, Mr. Akio." Lettuce spoke, raising her hand.
"Yes, what is it Lettuce?" Akio inquired, looking at her.
"I saw horses out there. Do they belong to this land or no?" Lettuce questioned.
"Yes and No. They do live on this land, but people in the village own them; they don't come by very often. One of the groundskeepers usually takes care of them. I hope that answers your question." Akio answered Lettuce, looking at her.
"Yes, thank you." Lettuce quietly replied.
"Ok. This way then. Oh, and I've ordered you guys pizza for when you do get settled. I figured it'd be easier for tonight. Please follow me. The adults will all be downstairs while the kids twenty and under will be upstairs. The rooms you'll be staying in, along with the few spare rooms are this way. The laundry room is on the other end of the house—on the other side of the living area. Nami and Toshi this will be your room; I hope you enjoy it and that it's big enough." Akio continued, showing them to their rooms.
"I think this'll be plenty of room." Toshi insisted as he and his wife looked around their new room.
"Will you three be ok on your own?" Nami asked Kurogane, Kish, and Sayuri.
"Yes, Grandma." Kurogane, Sayuri, and Kish calmly answered, looking inside their grandparent's new room.
"Ok, then. Behave and have fun." Nami and Toshi instructed, looking at Kish when they said to behave. They looked at Sayuri and Kurogane when they said have fun.
"We will." The three replied.
"Ok, next to them we have Sakura and Shintaro." Akio moved onto Sakura and Shintaro.
"Oh, wow; this is far bigger than our old room." Sakura noted, walking in, amazed.
"I think you're spoiling us." Shintaro replied, watching Akio.
"Ichigo, Rini: you two behave, be polite, and be friendly." Sakura firmly told her daughters.
"Yes, of course, Mom." Ichigo and Rini replied, itching to see their new room, hoping they weren't sharing.
"Koji and Jen. This is your room, next to Sakura and Shintaro." Akio told Koji and Jen.
"Thank you. Girls, you know the gist of things." Koji and Jen told Ami and Mint.
"Yes, Mom, Dad." Ami and Mint replied. Ami wanted to get her stuff set up, so she could move on to the next part. Mint was hoping to share a room with Zakuro.
"And on the end are Rose and Pepper." Akio informed Rose and Pepper.
"What about the room between them and us? Can't one of us have that?" Pepper questioned.
"It seems a pity to waste a room." Rose added.
"Everyone has a roommate: the children have multiple. It wouldn't be fair for you two to be the only ones to have your own rooms. And the room isn't going to be wasted: it's going to be storage for Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, Valentines, and Easter decorations." Chihiro spoke up, slightly annoyed.
"Fine." Rose and Pepper went in without saying another word—not even one to their children.
"Ok… Now, if you will all follow me upstairs; I'll show you your rooms." Akio told the teens and twenty-year-olds, leading them upstairs.
"Chihiro, I'll let you take over from here." Akio gave Chihiro the reins, having her explain the room arrangements.
"Thank you, Akio. When we picked who would be staying with who, we went by age and of course, gender. Also, there were some other things that we had to account for." Chihiro started explaining, looking at everyone before continuing.
"First of all, we put boys with boys and girls with girls. The boys are on the east wing while the girls are on the west wing. The attic separates each wing—right here at the top of the stairs. There are six rooms on each side. All rooms except two will have three people; two rooms will have four people. Do you all understand so far?" Chihiro questioned, looking at everyone.
"Yes." Everyone replied.
"Good. We'll start with the girls. As we have uneven number of girls of certain ages, some of you older girls will be sharing with younger girls. Also, I know that there are a lot of siblings here—not all of you will be in the same room. This first room here belongs to Haruka, Michiru, and Setsuna. The room next to them belongs to Ichigo, Sayuri, and Usagi. Next to them are Ami, Lettuce, and Rei. The next room belongs to Maya, Mint, and Zakuro. Next to them, we have Makoto, Minako, and Taiya. And finally, at the end of the hall, making it impossible to sneak out in the middle of the night, we have Berry, Hotaru, Pudding, and Rini. All of your things are already in your rooms; they're just waiting to be unpacked. Go ahead, pick a bed, and get settled in while we show the boys to their rooms." Chihiro instructed, showing the girls to their rooms and new roommates.
"Are you going to be ok? I mean when everything is all said and done, I'll show you where you can find me at any time." Kish told Sayuri while she nervously looked around.
"If you prefer, you can come with us now, and see where we are as well. No offense to you, Lady, but I don't give a crap what you have to say. If my sister wants to follow us, that's fine." Kurogane calmly told Sayuri before firmly telling Chihiro when it looked as if she was going to say something.
"No. Kurogane, please. I'm fine; I'm just a little nervous. But everyone else seems ok. New place, I guess. Thanks. I'll be ok." Sayuri insisted before entering her new room with Setsuna, Ichigo, and Makoto.
"Don't worry; we'll take good care of her over here. You have nothing to worry about." The girls insisted.
"Ok. See you in a little bit." Kurogane and Kish replied, walking with the other guys.
"This may be good for her." Kurogane muttered, annoyed.
"She doesn't talk much, does she?" Ryou questioned, looking at Kish.
"No. But a lot has happened in the past few years. But it's her business to tell you if she wants—not mine. Don't mind Kurogane; he's just very protective of us." Kish replied, knowing full well Ryou was just curious. He then calmly told Chihiro, noticing her trying not to look at Kurogane.
"That's fine. I think we've all been through a lot—some more than others." Ryou replied.
"I guess." Kish and Kurogane sighed.
"Ok guys, here we are. This first room belongs to Keiichiro, Mamoru, and Touya. Next to them, we have Fai, Fuyuki, and Kurogane. The room next to them belongs to Seiya, Taiki, and Yaten. Moving on, we have Kish, Mizuki, and Ryou. The next room belongs to Akira, Masaya, and Pie. And finally on the end, because I know thirteen-year-old boys are sneakier than twelve-year-old girls, we have Hikaru, Natsu, Tart, and Tasuku. Especially these three thirteen-year-old boys—very mischievous. Any who… Like the girls' things, all of your things are already in your rooms as well. Any who, for now, go ahead, check out your new rooms, pick your beds, and start unpacking your things." Chihiro instructed in a chipper voice before she and Akio went downstairs.
"Wow, she's one peppy lady." Ryou, Kish, and Masaya noted, staring after Chihiro.
"Yeah, it's really annoying." Kurogane, Pie, and Akio replied, going to their new rooms.
"Any who…" Tart, Hikaru, and Natsu mimicked Chihiro.
"Be nice. She just has a sunny disposition that's all." Keiichiro insisted as they all went to their rooms.
"I like her." Fai happily declared, prancing into his room.
'Oh, God: why?' Kurogane asked himself, groaning.
All the rooms were set up the same:
The queen-sized beds were on the right side of the room—at least six feet apart.
Each bed has a trunk at the ends of them.
The dressers and desks with chairs were across from the beds on the left side of the room.
There are bookshelves next to the heads of the beds on the left.
On the right side of the beds, next to the heads, are extra shelves for whatever else someone has.
Then there is plenty of space for whatever else anyone else in three separate areas of the rooms.
Each room also had a shared TV with remote, DVD Player with remote, and a CD player with a radio.
There were two windows on either side of the bathrooms, above the doors.
The bathrooms are at the end of room, opposite of the room doors.
Each bathroom has one shower with a large tub, a toilet, a sink, and as a bonus, a medium-sized hot tub that can fit up to six people.
Fifteen Minutes Later:
"Fuck." Kurogane cursed when he pulled out an old stuffed bear.
"Aww! That's cute!" Fai happily declared with a smile.
"No offense, but I didn't picture you being a stuffed animal type of guy." Fuyuki spoke, watching Kurogane.
"I'm not." Kurogane sighed.
"An old girlfriend's?" Fai questioned.
How they decided to set up what bed each of them would have was:
Fuyuki closer to the door.
Fai in the center.
Kurogane closer to the bathroom.
"No, it's mine; I've had it since I was two. It's been in the family for a long-ass time. As for girlfriend. Not a chance in Hell. The only girls I love are my sister and my grandma. Excuse me." Kurogane replied before walking away.
With Kish, Ryou, & Mizuki:
"I didn't think those existed anymore." Mizuki spoke, noticing Kish's teddy bear.
"They don't make them anymore, if that's what you're referring to." Kish replied, setting up his area.
Kish was closer to the bathroom with Ryou in the center and Mizuki and was closer to the door.
"You have two? I didn't picture you as a multiple stuffed animal-type of guy." Ryou spoke up, noticing a second teddy bear in Kish's bag.
Knock. Knock.
"Kish." Kurogane spoke before Kish could respond to Ryou.
"Yeah?" Kish asked, watching Kurogane.
"Did you see Sayuri pack her bear?" Kurogane questioned, holding his bear.
"You have all three." Ryou and Mizuki noted, stunned.
"Well, I thought she had, but no, she didn't. I found hers in a donation pile. And I know it was hers because it had her name on it." Kish replied.
"That bear? Her favorite bear. What the hell was it doing in a donation pile? What was she thinking? She'll never be able to get that back." Kurogane questioned, frustrated.
"Relax. I picked it up; I told the person running the donation thing that it was Sayuri's and there was no way she'd get rid of it—along with why. Good thing too: some lady was eyeing it up like a hawk. I highly doubt Sayuri willingly got rid of it. Yes, we have all three; they originally belonged to our great grandmother—who made these things. These were the first ones she ever made; we inherited them from our mother on our second birthdays." Kish firmly told Kurogane before telling Ryou and Mizuki.
"If it's so important to her—and people who knew you, knew that: why would they get rid of it like that?" Ryou questioned, making his bed.
"I don't know, but I'll find out." Kurogane replied, turning to leave the room.
"Really, Kurogane?" Kish stopped Kurogane.
"What is that supposed to mean?" Kurogane demanded.
"Grandpa hates these things—and Sayuri's fifteen. He strongly believes she's too old for stuffed animals and probably used that to his advantaged." Kish replied.
Knock. Knock. Knock.
"What is wrong with your grandfather?" Setsuna demanded, barging into the room.
"What are you talking about?" Kurogane and Kish questioned.
"I'm sorry. I don't know what you all went through… Oh, it's ok for you to have stuffed animals, but Sayuri can't?" Setsuna continued going off.
"What are you talking about?" Kurogane demanded, frustrated.
"We're getting our beds and areas set up—Sayuri is in a corner by the window across from Ichigo. She for some reason refuses to sleep near the door. Usagi is across from Sayuri by the door while I'm across from her and Ichigo. But anyway, Ichigo, Usagi, and even I have a stuffed animal. Ichigo and Usagi have a few. We were surprised to see Sayuri didn't have any; she told us your grandfather says she's too old and forced her to get rid of some bear her mom gave her. I'm nineteen and I still have one stuffed animal I love and sleep with. It is normal for most girls to have at least one stuffed animal all their life. I mean, she has one stuffed cat she was able to sneak into her bag, but it's not the one that means the most to her. What the hell?" Setsuna ranted and raved, watching Kurogane and Kish.
"Grandpa hates these bears. From what I understand, he and our great grandmother didn't get along—and she didn't approve of their marriage. I kind of figured that's why her bear was in a donation pile. I think they're some kind of reminder of great grandma to him. It's no excuse, but I think that's it." Kish replied.
"Wow. The rooms really are all set up the same—and you're in the same area in your room that Sayuri is in ours. And peeking into your room, so are you." Usagi noted, referring to Kish and Kurogane.
"That doesn't surprise me." Kish and Kurogane replied in sync.
"I wonder why that is." Usagi wondered out loud.
"What brings you down this way?" Setsuna questioned, watching Usagi.
"Came to see what was taking you so long." Usagi answered with a smile.
"Ok… I'll be right back; I'm going to see Sayuri. Are you coming with?" Kish sighed, grabbing both bears.
"Are you planning on giving her your bear along with hers?" Kurogane questioned, watching Kish.
"Yep. I don't need it; I have other things from Mom, Great Grandma, and Great Grandpa. Being the youngest, she doesn't have much. Not that she wanted much." Kish replied.
"That makes since. She just wanted stuffed animals and some bracelets and necklaces. She doesn't wear rings or earrings. I have things as well: give her this as well." Kurogane replied, handing Kish his teddy bear.
"Don't you want to give it to her?" Kish questioned, slightly confused.
"As much as I'd love to give it to her directly, I have to talk to Grandfather. Just let her know it's from me." Kurogane replied before heading downstairs.
"Ok. As for where we sleep: we don't sleep near doors." Kish replied, following Usagi to her and Sayuri's room.
An Hour & A Half Later:
Once everyone was unpacked and settled into their new rooms, Kish went to find Sayuri to show her where his room was—only to find Kurogane got to her first.
"Ok. I'm in the second room down this hall, and I think Kish is in the fourth room. But this is my new room. And these are the ones I'm sharing the room with: Fai and Fuyuki." Kurogane showed Sayuri his room and his roommates.
"Your new best friends." Sayuri softly responded.
"Roommates. I don't know them enough to be best friends—let alone even friends." Kurogane sighed, trying not to say something stupid.
"But you'll try?" Sayuri softly asked.
"I make no promises—but I'll try." Kurogane replied before giving in.
"Don't you worry, Dear Sayuri! We will make sure your big brother has some great friends! And I, Fai, will be his bestest friend!" Fai excitedly declared, causing Sayuri to look up at Kurogane, confused.
"I'm sorry." Sayuri softly apologized.
"No. You have nothing to apologize for. Kish, why don't you show Sayuri to your room and meet your roommates? Sayuri, go with Kish." Kurogane sincerely replied before instructing.
"Yes, Kurgi." Sayuri softly replied, going with Kish.
"Kurgi, huh?" Fai questioned with a big stupid grin.
"Shut up! Sayuri is the only one who gets to call me that." Kurogane snapped, trying not to yell as he shut the door.
"Don't mind them. Kurogane's not mad at you. I think Fai is going to be the one to test Kurogane. But anyway, this is my room: I'm in the fourth room with Ryou and Mizuki. Guys, this is my younger sister." Kish assured Sayuri before showing her to his room and introducing her to his roommates.
"Hey. It's very nice to meet you." Mizuki politely greeted Sayuri with a kind smile.
"Hey. Sayuri, right?" Ryou greeted, walking over.
"Uh-huh." Sayuri nervously answered.
"I'm Ryou." Ryou introduced himself, extending his hand to shake hers.
"Uh-huh." Sayuri shyly replied, shaking his hand.
"Are you ok?" Ryou questioned, watching Sayuri turn red.
"Yes. Sorry. I'm just nervous." Sayuri quietly insisted.
"Don't be. We're all in the same boat here. Hey, do you want to go out on the trail later and explore with me?" Ryou replied before requesting with a comforting smile.
"Oh, umm... Sure." Sayuri softly replied.
"Great." Ryou calmly replied with a smile that made Sayuri melt.
"Kids, pizza's here! Come and get it!" Sakura and Shintaro called up the stairs.
Soon after they called for dinner, almost everyone ran downstairs.
The only ones left upstairs were Ryou, Sayuri, Kish, Ichigo, Mamoru, Usagi, and Mint.
"Hey, are you guys coming or not?" Zakuro asked, looking up the stairs.
"We'll be down in a few minutes." Ichigo replied.
"What are you guys talking about?" Zakuro questioned, walking back upstairs.
"We're just talking about exploring the paths after we get done eating. Do you want to come with?" Mint asked, looking at Zakuro.
"Oh, sure. That sounds like fun." Zakuro calmly replied.
"Can I come with too?" Ichigo asked, looking at the others.
"Sure. The more the merrier." Kish insisted with a smile, looking at Ichigo.
"So, what's your name anyway?" Kish asked, looking at everyone.
"I'm Ichigo."
"I'm Usagi."
"I'm Kish."
"I'm Sayuri."
"I'm Zakuro."
"I'm Mint."
"You and your sister are the ones with the bitch for a mother." Kish noted, looking at Zakuro.
"Yeah, I'm sorry about her." Zakuro plainly apologized, putting her hand on her hip.
"No, I'm sorry. How do you handle a mother like her?" Kish curiously asked.
"We don't; they just ignore us. And that's just fine with us; it just means we can do what we want. You two are the grandchildren of my mother's bosses, aren't you? You and that bigger guy with black hair and red eyes." Zakuro answered before questioning, looking at Kish and Sayuri.
"Yep, that's us!" Kish declared, causing Ichigo to giggle.
"And Kurgi." Sayuri softly added.
"So, who are you two?" Mint asked, looking at Ryou and Mamoru.
"My name is Mamoru." Mamoru answered, watching Usagi out of the corner of his eyes.
"I'm Ryou." Ryou calmly answered, looking at Sayuri.
"Come on, the rest of you! It's time to eat!" Sakura and Shintaro yelled up again.
"Coming!" Ichigo yelled as they all looked at each other.
"Guess we'd better get down there before they have a tizzy." Kish and Ryou insisted.
"Right." The others agreed before making their way downstairs.
"It's about time you got down here." Michiru greeted the group as they sat down.
"What were you doing up there—having sex?" Masaya and Akira questioned, smirking.
As soon as they asked that, Sayuri, Ichigo, and Usagi's faces turned bright red while Ryou, Kish, and Mamoru spit out their drinks.
Zakuro sat there, shaking her head. At the same time, Mint didn't know how to react.
"Damnit, Masaya!" Ryou exclaimed, getting up to chase after Masaya.
"Here, let me help." Kish insisted, chasing after Akira and Masaya. He didn't know either of them.
"I'm going to help with the pizza." Mamoru sighed, heading to the kitchen.
"So, Sayuri. What's it like living with Kish?" Ichigo questioned, looking at Sayuri before he came back.
"Oh, it's good. He and Kurogane are very protective. But they do leave me alone to do my own thing." Sayuri softly answered.
"Did he have a girlfriend back where you are from?" Ichigo asked, trying to make it seem like she was just curious.
"He used to, but they didn't work out. That was about a year ago—I think." Sayuri softly answered.
"What about you?" Mint asked, looking at Sayuri.
"What do you mean?" Sayuri asked, confused.
"Did you have a boyfriend—or girlfriend back home where you're from?" Mint curiously asked.
"Oh. I used to—but he wasn't very good to me, so we broke up." Sayuri softly answered.
"If you don't mind my asking, but what did he do?" Mint questioned, prying.
"He just wasn't a nice guy." Sayuri replied, picking at her fingers.
"What are we talking about?" Kish inquired as he and Ryou came back. Masaya and Akira also came back—with knots on their heads.
"Nothing!" Sayuri quickly replied, turning red.
"Ichigo asked if you had a girlfriend and the blue-haired girl asked if your sister had a boyfriend. Your sister said that your relationship didn't work out. And her boyfriend just wasn't a nice person." Rini answered Kish, munching on some pizza.
"God, you have a big mouth." Ichigo mumbled, annoyed, throwing a napkin at her sister.
"What? It's what was said." Rini retorted, throwing the napkin back at Ichigo.
"Ok, girls: that's enough now. Ichigo leave your sister alone. And Rini, don't go telling people other people's business." Sakura sternly scolded her daughters before she went back to the kitchen.
"Yes, Mom." Both girls replied in unison.
"Ok. So, seeing as we're going to be living together, maybe we should get to know everyone. Starting with who everyone is and how old they are." Kish suggested, sitting next to Sayuri.
"Ok. Who goes first?" Hotaru inquired.
"How about youngest to oldest?" Hikaru suggested.
"How are we supposed to know how old everyone is, if we don't know anything about anyone, na no da?" Pudding made a point.
"Well, I don't know. It was just a suggestion, Pudding!" Hikaru exclaimed at his younger sister.
"Well…" "Ok, here's what we're going to do. I have all of your names written down on a piece of paper in this hat. Sayuri will pull out a piece of paper—and whoever's name is on it will start." Toshi firmly instructed, interrupting Pudding.
"Ok." Everyone agreed.
"Ok, Sayuri: go ahead and choose." Toshi insisted, placing the hat in front of her.
"Umm… Ok." Sayuri nervously pulled out a name.
"Whose name is on it, Sweetheart?" Nami gently asked, looking at her.
"Uh… Ummm… Keiichiro." Sayuri softly spoke, showing Toshi the piece of paper.
"Ok, then. Where's Keiichiro?" Toshi asked, looking around.
"I'm over here, Sir." Keiichiro politely answered.
"Oh, sir? I like this kid. Kish, you could learn a thing or two from him. But honestly, you can call me Toshi; Sir was my father." Toshi replied, causing everyone to laugh out of politeness.
"But start with Keiichiro and you guys can go left from there." Toshi continued.
"Yes…" "Mr. Toshi." "Grandpa." Everyone agreed.
"What do we say ourselves?" Keiichiro inquired.
"Your name. Your age. Something you like and something you dislike. Hobby or hobbies." Ryou suggested, leaning back while closing his eyes.
"Oh, before you start. I'm sorry to interrupt, but this is kind of important. Guardians, please come out here—this concerns you as well. After I get this last bit of information out, Chihiro and I will be leaving." Akio interrupted everyone as he and Chihiro sat down.
"What is it? Is everything ok?" Sakura and Nami questioned, worried.
"Yes, everything is just fine. I just thought I'd tell you that we were originally working on getting the teens into some type of school by the next school year in about a month and a half." Akio started to explain.
"Awww!" Most of the teens whined.
"This is a good thing. You need school to socialize and learn things." Rose spoke in a monotone tone of voice.
"You're only saying that because you don't want us around." Zakuro stated in annoyance.
"No. No, we love you." Rose and Pepper mumbled, not bothering to look at her daughters.
"Whatever." Both Michiru and Zakuro said, rolling their eyes.
"Actually, because of how many of you there are—and your situation, we were thinking about sending some of our teachers to teach the kids here. Rose and Pepper will be going to their new jobs in the fashion industry. We got Shintaro a job in business, and Koji a job architect; they both start in a few days. Sakura and Jen: you both said you were happy being a homemaker, so you can stay here and take care of your new home. But, of course, you're free to find jobs if you want. Same goes for Nami and Toshi—even though you own a business. Keiichiro, Mamoru, Pie, Touya, Setsuna, Haruka, Michiru, Kurogane, and Fai. With all of you, we talked to our teachers who will be coming here, and have decided that you will be teaching aides, helping the students. If you don't like that option, you can always go out and find jobs." Mr. Akio explained, taking a quick breath before continuing.
"Seiya, Taiki, Yaten, Mizuki, Fuyuki, Kish, Akira, Zakuro, and Taiya are all third-year students, meaning you only have one year of school left. Ami, you skipped a grade, so you'll also be a third-year student. Do you think you can handle that?" Akio started explaining before questioning Ami.
"I most certainly can." Ami replied, excited to take on the challenge of being in class with older students.
"Good. Masaya, Maya, Usagi, Minako, Makoto, Rei, and Ryou: you are our second-year students leaving Sayuri, Ichigo, Lettuce, and Mint as our first-year students. And Hotaru, Pudding, Berry, Rini, Tart, Tasuku, Hikaru, and Natsu: you six are the junior high students. Once you graduate, we will discuss college, and what your options are because of the program. Now, as for your classes and hours, Chihiro will explain how all of that will work because I have absolutely no clue how all that works. I just hire the people. Chihiro, the floor is all yours." Akio finished explaining before leaving it to Chihiro.
"Thank you, so much, Akio. Ok. So, we have five different age categories for classes. And as Akio said earlier: he has no clue what's going on. Yes, Akira, Ami, Fuyuki, Kish, Mizuki, Seiya, Taiki, Taiya, Yaten and Zakuro are the third-year home school class together: that's correct. However, because they were held back; Hikaru, Natsu, Tart, and Tasuku will be in classes with Hotaru, Pudding, and Rini; they will be second-year junior high-home schooled students. And Ichigo, Lettuce, Makoto, Masaya, Maya, Minako, Mint, Rei, Ryou, Sayuri, and Usagi will be in the first-year class together. So, instead of five different classes; there are only three. Still, there are several different subjects to be studied. So, there will be a different teacher for each class. You will have the basics: Math, Science, History, English, Health, and Physical Education. And then there are, what are normally elective classes are; they are now a must: Art, Music, Shop Class, Home Economics, Mythology, Creative Writing, and Photography. Now, I apologize in advance, but this is how these teachers work: Shop Class is a male only class while Home Economics is a female only class. I'm not trying to be sexist, but these are the only teachers in the program for these classes, and they grew up in a family who is incredibly old school. Now, I have the list of classes and teachers you will have." Chihiro started explaining before, handing Nami, Sakura, Jen, Keiichiro, Mamoru, Touya, Pie, Kurogane, Setsuna, Haruka, Michiru, Fai, and Fuyuki.
· Math-Mr. Frick
· Science-Mr. Moss
· History-Mr. Bacon
· English-Ms. Nashi
· Health-Mrs. Bacon
· Physical Education-Mr. Vesps
· Art-Mrs. Heaker
· Music (Everyone)-Mrs. Jags
· Shop Class (Guys-Only)-Mr. Haddingfield
· Home Economics (Girls-Only)-Ms. Haddingfield
· Mythology-Mr. Koji
· Creative Writing-Ms. Sake
· Photography-Mr. Heaker
"Now, when I say that these elective classes are a must, what I mean is that each semester, you must pick a few to do. However, because you didn't know about any of this, and there isn't much time left before school starts again, your first semester classes have all been chosen for you. The two exceptions are Physical Education and Music; those two are mandatory."
"Moving on: you will have ten forty-five-minute courses in a day. And just so everyone is aware—because of a time issue, Physical Education will be two hours after your regular class hours end and will be from four-thirty to five-thirty. With that said, everyone will have that class together, so please try to be ready for that. So, except for Physical Education, classes are nine forty-five-minute classes, plus, a fifty-minute lunch at starting at five after eleven. And yes, it will be whatever the cook is making that day. It doesn't matter how long you stay up at night, so long as you're up and ready for class by seven—and they go until a quarter past three. Also, some of the elective classes will also include different years depending on who we've put in it. Like music: I think everyone is in that class together. Only third-years and a few second-years will have Photography class while a few second-years and the junior high students will have art. You won't know what class you have until you get your schedules. Yes, Lettuce?" Chihiro explained and then called on Lettuce when she raised her hand.
"Do you already have our class schedules? If so, can we have them?" Lettuce softly asked.
"Who's the chef, na no da?" Pudding eagerly questioned.
"I do believe I spoke to Sakura and Jen earlier: they agreed to cook for everyone. If they still want to, that's on them; they will be given everyone's allergy list, so they know what to make or not to make. If they do not wish to do the cooking, we do have cooks that are in the program. As for schedules: Akio has those." Chihiro answered both girls.
"Yes, I have your schedules; I will give them to Sakura, Shintaro, Nami, Toshi, Jen, and Koji; they can give them to you later on." Akio informed Lettuce and the others.
"Does anyone else have any other questions?" Chihiro asked, looking around.
Nobody spoke up.
"I'll check in once a month to see how you're all doing. Have a fantastic evening and enjoy the house and the land, and all that comes with it." Akio announced, about ready to head out with Chihiro.
"Well, then I will be going. But I'll see you every Sunday between one and one thirty, and I will stay until I get done talking to each of you for therapy and meditation. Oh, but before we leave—I should mention that all girls between fifteen and eighteen will be placed on birth control, no ifs, ands, or buts. Girls nineteen and older have the option to be on birth control or not. Also, for extra precautionary, all guys will be given condoms. I will bring a doctor and nurse with on my next visit to explain all that." Chihiro informed everyone with a broad smile.
Needless to say, everyone was stunned—too stunned to reply or say anything as Akio and Chihiro left.
"There is something wrong with those people—especially the lady." Kish mumbled as they all came back to reality.
"Kish! Be nice! She just has a sunny disposition!" Nami exclaimed, upset with her grandson.
"Yes, Grandma." Kish mumbled an apology.
"Grandma, calm down before you have a heart attack. Besides, Kish is correct: that woman doesn't have a sunny disposition; she's overly peppy. And as for the girls being forced to be placed on birth control. That's not right." Kurogane calmly spoke, sitting on the edge of the couch.
"I have to say, I agree with that sentiment." Shintaro and Koji agreed with Kurogane.
"You're just saying that because you have daughters. My father was the same way with me. I should've listened to him. Don't get me wrong; I love my daughters, but I probably should've waited. The girls should be placed on birth control for their own sanity. Though, with my daughters, they shouldn't need it. There's no real reason for them to have it; Michiru and Zakuro are both dykes." Rose plainly spoke up.
"Mom! What the hell?!" Michiru exclaimed, embarrassed. Not because she was a lesbian but rather with how Rose came out and said it.
"Thanks, Mom." Zakuro sarcastically replied, annoyed.
"Now, that's enough. You, young lady need to grow up. You're the one who spread her legs, became pregnant, and kept your daughters. Like it or not, you're a mother: act like it. As for your daughters being lesbians: what does it matter? What does it matter who they love? With how you act as a selfish mother—and how you treat your daughters; you have no right to who they want to be with and love. Don't think I don't see you making faces at me. You're just as bad as her. And you have what? Three kids? Two daughters and a son, correct? Start acting like it." Toshi scolded Rose and Pepper.
"Now, as for the birth control situation. I agree with them: the girls should be put on birth control. To the protective fathers and older brothers in the room: I know what you're thinking. But like it or not, your daughters or sisters are going to meet someone and start a relationship at some point. And at some point, they're going to have sex. We don't need any pregnancies or babies right now. One: over half of the girls are too young—in my opinion. Two: no one here knows anyone well enough to start a family. Three: in our situation, we don't need to be bringing any new lives into this right now. So, again: like it or not, birth control is the best thing to preventing the girls from becoming pregnant." Toshi gave his opinion, making everyone think.
"You should get started now. I believe you were starting with Keiichiro and going to the left." Nami insisted, watching the group.
"So—Mr. Keiichiro, are you ready to start?" Sayuri politely and nervously questioned.
"Wait. Before we start, why don't the guardian units introduce themselves? I mean, no offense, but Kurogane, Sayuri, and I only Grandma and Grandpa. I mean, we know your names are Sakura, Shintaro, Koji, Jen, Rose, and Pepper. I think it's only fair you tell us about yourselves as well." Kish insisted, watching his grandparents and the other parents.
At the same time, everyone else turned their attention to Sakura, Shintaro, Koji, Jen, Rose, Pepper, Toshi, and Nami.
"Very well." Nami responded with a smile.
"How do we do this? As in who goes first and all that?" Shintaro questioned, watching everyone.
"Sticks?" Sayuri softly suggested.
"Sticks? What are we going to do with sticks? Pick them up?" Pepper scoffed, narrowing her eyes at Sayuri, making her feel small.
"Yes, Sticks. Do you have a problem with that? Sayuri, do you have yours or do you need to make more?" Kurogane growled at Pepper, making her recoil. He then calmly asked Sayuri.
"Yes." Sayuri answered.
"Please go get them." Kurogane instructed, taking a deep breath.
Sayuri didn't reply; she just got up and hurried upstairs.
Five Minutes Later:
"There you are." "It's about time." Rose and Pepper immediately berated Sayuri once she made it back.
"Sorry. I couldn't find them right away. And then I dropped them and had to pick them up—twice." Sayuri apologized and explained why she had taken so long.
"You don't need to explain yourself. And you don't need to apologize either." Kish firmly told Sayuri.
"Kish is right. But let's just move on. Do you want to hold out the sticks for everyone to pick one?" Kurogane replied before asking.
"Umm… Longest stick goes first, and smallest goes last." Sayuri nervously spoke, walking until she stood in front of the adults.
"Don't you have to break them or something?" Rose questioned, narrowing her eyes.
"No." Sayuri softly replied.
"Then why are there only four? There are eight of us. You're four short. Don't you know how to count?" Pepper belittled Sayuri.
"Well, speak." Rose demanded.
"Hey! Sayuri's not a dog. How the hell do you expect her to answer you when you won't shut your damn traps?! Sayuri, please explain why you only grabbed four sticks." Kurogane snapped at Rose and Pepper before calmly speaking to Sayuri.
"Well, I figured because most of you are married, one person could pick a stick, and one could go and then their partner could go next. Like when it's Grandma's turn, Grandpa would go after her—or Grandpa and then Grandma. And then because you two are friends, one of you could go, followed by the other." Sayuri shakily explained, trying not to cry.
"You are too adorable. I like that idea. Can I take a stick now?" Sakura cooed before gently asking.
Sayuri didn't reply; she just held out the colorful sticks.
Sakura took a stick, followed by Nami and Jen.
"Here." Kurogane handed Rose the last stick; he could tell Sayuri was too nervous to give her or Pepper the last stick.
"I guess I go first. My name is Jen and I'm thirty-three. Koji is my husband of seventeen years and is one of my best friends. However, Sakura is my best friend and has been since we were eleven. I have two daughters, Ami and Mint—who are only thirteen months apart. I was told if I wanted to have children to start young due to hereditary issues. I never expected to become pregnant back-to-back like that, but I love my girls more than anything." Jen introduced herself with a smile.
"My name is Koji; I'm forty and Jen's husband. I haven't known them as long as Jen, but Shintaro and Sakura are great friends. My wife and daughters, Ami and Mint, are my world no matter who they love. I hate when people judge my family because of my wife's and my age difference or how close our daughters are in age." Koji introduced himself.
"My name is Pepper; my age is unimportant, so don't ask. I'm divorced and have two ungrateful daughters and one son, who is just as ungrateful. We used to live in Paris where Rose and I were at the top of our job." Pepper introduced herself before getting two pieces of pizza.
"Yeah… I'm Rose; my husband died years ago, leaving me alone with Michiru and Zakuro. I left Japan as soon as possible and moved to Paris, where I would rather be now. I miss my job." Rose bitched more than introduced herself, getting something to drink.
"If all you're going to do is whine and complain, just head to your room or anywhere else. None of us need this negativity. Sorry. I don't mean to interrupt your time. I just can't stand their attitude at this point in time. Go ahead." Nami scolded Rose and Pepper, having enough of their attitude before speaking to Sakura.
"No, it's perfectly ok. I don't think any of us want their negativity. And I don't think anyone wants to see or hear anyone yelling at them anymore. Go ahead, hunny." Shintaro replied before insisting.
"Well, my name is Sakura; I am thirty-three, and the wife of Shintaro. I am also the mother of two beautiful daughters, Ichigo and Rini. I love cooking, baking, and spending time with my family. I know Jen said we were best friends, but I consider her more of a sister. Despite what my daughters may think, I don't like cleaning all the time—which is why I make them help with certain tasks." Sakura happily introduced herself.
"I'm Sakura's husband and Ichigo and Rini's father, Shintaro. I am thirty-four and have been with my best friend for the last nineteen years. No offense to Koji or anything because he's a great friend, and an even greater father. I love my family and spending as much time with them as possible. I don't like the thought of either of my daughters dating. And neither of them are to have sex until they're in their forties." Shintaro proudly introduced himself.
"DAD!" Ichigo and Rini screeched, embarrassed.
"Let's see. I'm Nami; I'm fifty-five and have been married to Toshi for the past twenty-nine years. I was the mother of two sons and one daughter. One of our sons died in a plane accident and we disowned our other son for personal reasons. As for our daughter—well, she was killed by her husband. As hard as that all was, we got our wonderful and beautiful grandsons and granddaughter, Kurogane, Kish, and Sayuri. I love a lot of different things: baking, sewing, crocheting, knitting, designing—just about anything, and a clean house. I hate cooking and am no good at it." Nami introduced herself.
"I'm Toshi, I'm fifty-eight, married to Nami, the grandfather to Kurogane, Kish, and Sayuri. After their father killed their mother, we had to fight in court to get custody of them. I love my wife, grandkids, watching or reading the news, cooking, a clean house, order, war stories, and comedies. I hate reading anything but the news, liars, and secrets. And no, Nami can't cook; she sent several of the family members to the ER with her cooking. Don't let her cook. Her baking, on the other hand, is amazing." Toshi introduced himself, picking on his wife a little.
"Now, I do believe it is your guys' turn." Nami informed the kids.
"Yeah, yeah, yeah." Most of them mumbled in reply.
"Who's turn was it again?" Maya questioned.
"Mr. Keiichiro is 'spose to start." Sayuri softly spoke.
"Go ahead, Keiichiro." Ryou and Masaya insisted.
"Yes, of course. My name is Keiichiro, and I am twenty. And to everyone here, I would prefer to just be called by my name. There is no need to call me Mr. or Sir. I was adopted into Ryou's family when I was fifteen, so I have two younger adopted brothers: Ryou and Masaya. I don't remember much of my life before being adopted. I like to bake and help others. I don't like conflict or when my brothers pull me into their fights. My hobbies are baking and doing research." Keiichiro introduced himself, smiling.
"I'm Setsuna; I'm nineteen and have two younger siblings, Tasuku and Lettuce. I like science, tea, and sewing. I don't like eggplants or singing. My hobbies are studying science and shopping." Setsuna calmly introduced herself as she ate her food.
"I'm Pie. I'm twenty. I have a younger brother, Tart, and three younger adopted sisters, Berry, Taiya, and Maya. I like to study, do research, and keep busy. I don't like having nothing to do. My hobbies are studying and doing research." Pie plainly introduced himself.
"I'm Natsu, and I'm thirteen. I am the youngest out of Touya and Akira. I like sports, video games, and playing pranks. I don't like math, science, watching Touya and Fuyuki make out, or when Akira blames me for his actions. My hobbies are soccer, basketball, and judo." Natsu introduced himself.
"My name is Tart; I'm thirteen and the second youngest of five. I like to play pranks and have fun. I don't like to do boring stuff like studying. My hobbies are playing and pranking/playing tricks on others." Tart introduced himself, wickedly grinning.
"I'm Hikaru; I'm thirteen and the middle child between Fuyuki and Pudding. We used to have other siblings, but they were adopted. I like video games and I don't like studying. My hobbies are video games, soccer, softball, and playing pranks on people." Hikaru introduced himself, smiling.
"I'm Tasuku, and I'm thirteen. Setsuna and Lettuce are my older sisters. I like roller skating, kickboxing, soccer, and an occasional video game. I can't stand leeks and onions. My hobbies are rollerblading, kickboxing, and soccer." Tasuku introduced himself, shoveling a piece of pizza into his mouth.
"I'm Pudding, and I'm twelve. My older brothers are Fuyuki and Hikaru. Like Hikaru said, our younger siblings were all adopted. I like to do circus tricks and perform for people; I don't like bullies. My hobbies are performing, doing tricks, having fun, and playing." Pudding introduced herself, kicking her feet back and forth.
"I'm Rini, and I am twelve. Ichigo is my older sister. I like pudding, pancakes, bunnies, drawing, and having fun. I don't like carrots, learning other languages, or cleaning. My hobbies are having fun, collecting rabbit things, and spying on Ichigo." Rini happily and mischievously introduced herself.
"I'm Hotaru, I'm twelve, and Rei is my older sister. I like soba noodles, history, and hanging out with friends. I don't like physical education, running, or milk. My hobbies are reading and collecting lamps—I know I'm weird." Hotaru introduced herself, blushing a little as she looked down.
"I'm Berry, and I'm twelve. Pie and Tart are my adopted brothers, and Taiya and Maya are my adopted sisters. I like rollerblading and doing beauty pageants. I don't like people who think they're all that. My hobbies are roller skating and beauty makeup." Berry introduced herself before taking a drink, catching Tasuku's eye.
"So, I'm Fuyuki; I'm seventeen and the oldest out of several siblings. However, only Hikaru, Pudding, and I weren't adopted as we were the oldest and people only wanted younger children. I'm gay and dating Touya. I like keeping busy and I suppose I don't like homophobic people. My hobbies… Hmm… I guess I like doing card tricks, origami, and making coffee." Fuyuki awkwardly introduced himself.
"I'm Touya; I'm twenty with two younger brothers, Akira and Natsu. As Fuyuki stated, we're dating. We were from a prestigious family—so people say. I can't say I liked the life I was living before this. I like all sorts of things and my hobbies are spending time with Fuyuki, Hikaru, Natsu, and Pudding, and reading mystery novels. As much as I love Akira, he's not my favorite person." Touya calmly introduced himself.
"Hey, I'm Akira; I'm seventeen, and I think this is the dumbest shit ever. That is all." Akira quickly introduced himself before grabbing pizza and heading outside.
"My name is Taiya. I am also seventeen, and I have to say I agree with Akira: this is stupid. But I'll humor everyone. For the most part, I like being alone, the dark, and having sexual adventures. I don't like cutesy girly things. My hobbies include being a bitch and having sex." Taiya introduced herself before getting something to eat and drink before following Akira.
"I'm Maya, and I'm sixteen. I was adopted into Pie and Tart's family after Berry with my best friend/sister, Taiya. I like being popular, cheerleading, peaches, and biology. I don't like onions or hard work. My hobbies are cheerleading, gymnastics, and dissecting worms, frogs, and dead things." Maya introduced herself, nearly causing half the girls to lose their dinner.
"Hey, are you coming?" Taiya called Maya.
"Coming!" Maya called, rushing over to Taiya.
"The name's Kurogane, and I'm nineteen. I do think this is dumb, but I'll participate. I get along with girls, but I'm gay. My sister, brother, and grandparents are the most important people to me, and that will never change. I like swords and martial arts. I do have a sword—and I do have it with me. It is not a toy, and if I find out anyone is messing with it; it won't be pretty. I do not like bullies, anyone who causes problems for my family, people who think they're all that, or people who think they're above everyone else. If I must have a hobby, it's protecting my sister and brother." Kurogane introduced himself.
"I'm Zakuro; I'm seventeen and I have an older sister, Michiru. I like to do a lot of different things like modeling, singing, dancing, and acting. I don't like being bored. My hobbies are modeling, singing, and dancing." Zakuro coolly introduced herself, attracting Mint.
"I'm Michiru; I'm nineteen and Zakuro is my younger sister. I like painting, music, Sashimi, and swimming. I don't like sea cucumbers or mushrooms. My hobbies are collecting cosmetics, playing violin, painting, and swimming." Michiru introduced herself with a smile, getting Haruka's attention.
"I'm Fai, and it's very nice to meet all of you! I'm nineteen with two younger sisters, Minako and Usagi. I love being happy and hate being sad. My hobby is making others happy. I also partake in liking and having relationships with men." Fai excitedly introduced himself.
"I'm Haruka; I'm nineteen and Makoto is my younger half-sister. I like salads, physical education, and racing. I strongly dislike natto, dressing up, and anything girly. My hobbies are driving and racing cars, and anything sports." Haruka introduced herself, watching Michiru.
"I'm Mizuki; I'm eighteen and have an interesting family dynamic. Mamoru, Seiya, Taiki, and Yaten are all my half-brothers. It's a very long story that I do not wish to discuss more than I already have. Unlike my brothers, who want to be musicians or a doctor, I aspire to be a priest. I like reading and dancing. I don't like singing or feeling alone." Mizuki introduced himself, kind of getting Rei's attention.
"I'm Kish, and I'm seventeen. I like kickboxing, Karate, sports, and video games. I don't like when my sister is upset or hurt. My hobbies are kickboxing and Karate, soccer, football, and tetherball." Kish introduced himself with a determined smile, winking at Ichigo.
"My name is Sayuri; I'm fifteen, and my older brothers are Kurogane and Kish. Ummm… I like reading, writing, and arts and crafts such as drawing, coloring, and painting. I don't like snakes, spiders, being alone, storms, or loud noises. My hobbies are reading, writing, pottery, drawing, painting, and doodling." Sayuri quietly introduced herself before taking a bite of pizza and glancing at Ryou.
"My name is Ryou, and I'm sixteen. When I was four, my parents adopted Masaya. And a few years later, they adopted Keiichiro. So, they are my brothers—even though Masaya pisses me off. I like science, reading, and studying new things. I don't like being bored. My hobbies are science and reading." Ryou introduced himself, watching Sayuri out of the corner of his eyes.
"I'm Usagi, and I'm sixteen. I am the younger sister of Fai and the twin sister of Minako. I like cake, ice cream, rabbits, home economics, manga, eating, and video games. I don't like math, science, or tests. My hobbies are drawing manga, eating, sleeping, relaxing, playing video games, and shopping." Usagi introduced herself with a smile, watching Mamoru.
"I'm Minako, and I'm sixteen. Fai is my older brother and Usagi is my twin. I like curry, birds, sports—mainly volleyball, acting, singing, and dancing. I don't like mushrooms or show-offs. My hobbies are playing volleyball and dancing. I want to be an actress or singer." Minako introduced herself.
"My name is Ichigo, and I'm fifteen. My younger sister is Rini, and my parents are Shintaro and Sakura. I like strawberries, daydreaming, and having fun. I don't like being pushed around. My hobbies are making new friends, hanging out with them, and daydreaming about stuff." Ichigo introduced herself with a smile as she sneaked glances at Kish.
"My name is Makoto, I'm sixteen, and I am the younger half-sister of Haruka. I like cherry pie, horses, and romance novels. I hate people who bully others because they think they're better, cheaters, and potatoes. My hobbies are Karate, baking, and bargain-hunting." Makoto introduced herself with a smile.
"My name is Rei, I'm sixteen, and the older sister to Hotaru. I like puffer fish, ancient writing, and mediation. I don't like canned asparagus, being out in public for too long, or television. My hobbies are working on becoming an official priestess and fortune telling." Rei introduced herself as she ate her food, turning Mizuki's head.
"My name is Lettuce, and I'm fifteen. I am the younger sister of Setsuna and Tasuku. I like sewing, baking, and reading. I don't like bullies. My hobbies are sewing, making dolls, baking pastries, and reading romance novels." Lettuce softly introduced herself, catching the attention of Pie.
"I'm Mint; I'm fifteen and the younger sister of Ami. I like to drink tea and dance ballet. I don't like lazy people. My hobbies are dancing ballet and drinking tea." Mint introduced herself, sipping her tea, getting Zakuro's attention.
"I'm Ami; I'm sixteen and the older sister to Mint. I like ramen, math, science, history, and studying in general. I don't like tuna. My hobbies are reading, chess, baking cookies, swimming, and working on becoming a doctor." Ami introduced herself.
"The name's Masaya, and I'm sixteen—and as you have already heard, Ryou's family adopted me. It's a good life, but Ryou pisses me off quite a bit. I like kendo and saving the environment, and I don't like people who destroy it. My hobbies are kendo and saving the environment." Masaya introduced himself, glaring at Ryou, who glared back.
"My name is Mamoru, I'm twenty, and I have four half-brothers, Mizuki, Seiya, Taiki, and Yaten. I like chocolate, roses, motorcycles, and science. I don't like—there's not a whole lot I don't like—bullies, I guess. My hobbies are reading, fixing cars, and working on becoming a doctor." Mamoru calmly introduced himself, causing Usagi's heart to flutter.
"My name is Seiya, I'm eighteen and I have four half-brothers. I like hamburgers and physical education. I don't like Literature. My hobbies are singing and football. I am also transgender. I was born female, but never felt right before." Seiya introduced himself.
"I'm Taiki, and I am eighteen. You already know about my family. I like sushi and Literature. I don't like arguments. My hobbies are singing and poetry. Like Seiya, I am a transgendered male." Taiki introduced himself.
"I'm Yaten. I too am an eighteen-year-old transgendered male. I am the brother of Mamoru, Mizuki, Seiya, and Taiki. I like caviar and art. I hate anything sports and talking to people. My hobbies are singing, photography and interior decoration." Yaten introduced himself in a bored tone of voice.
"What are you staring at?" Masaya demanded, glaring at Ryou.
"Nothing." Ryou replied with a huff, leaning back.
"Wh—" "Now, now, you two. Let's try to be civil. We just got here after all. And there are a lot more people you have to be considerate of here." Keiichiro interrupted Masaya, trying to defuse any tension.
"Fine." Both Ryou and Masaya huffed, looking away from each other.
"Are they always like that?" Pie questioned, raising an eyebrow as he, Keiichiro, Mamoru, Touya, Fuyuki, and Kurogane walked to the kitchen.
"Only when they're near each other for longer than half an hour." Keiichiro answered with a sigh as Setsuna, Michiru, and Haruka walked over.
"How bad do they get?" Setsuna questioned, interested.
"Typically, they just go back and forth, yelling at each other—until they see me. Then they try bringing me into whatever it is they're bickering about. Ryou's gotten better with that, but he still does if Masaya pushes him too far. Masaya still often gets me involved. Not too frequently do they get physical, but now and then they do. Hopefully being here settles them down." Keiichiro answered, watching the younger kids.
"How often do they fight?" Haruka questioned, slightly interested.
"What do they fight about? Everything?" Michiru asked, watching Ryou and Masaya; they were starting to tense up again.
"Depends on the day. One day, they won't fight at all: those are rare. One day, they'll fight once or twice a day: that's normal. One day, they'll fight every few hours: that's also normal. And then one day, they'll constantly fight until someone separates them: that's—somewhere between normal and not. As for what they fight about: they fight about three things. Three: me taking the other's side. Masaya always believes I take Ryou's side, and Ryou believes I take Masaya's side. Though, since I stepped in that last time, they've both gotten better with that. Two: academics. They argue about which one is smarter than the other. Hopefully, I don't need to explain that one. One: girls they date. It depends on the girl, but they never like each other's girlfriends. Cheaters, sluts, whores, gold diggers, manipulators, drug users, and I mustn't forget about the mole. And the girls never like each other or the one they're not dating." Keiichiro answered with a sigh.
"And let me guess: there was absolutely nothing wrong with the girls they were dating. They were perfectly lovely girls." Haruka noted, watching Keiichiro.
"Ha. No, they were all of those. They really do have horrible tastes in girls. Nice girls. Why can't they just fine a nice girl who will love them for them?" Keiichiro answered and then mumbled to himself.
"So, I understand gold digger, but mole?" Fuyuki questioned, confused.
"He means a spy. I'm guessing you and your brothers come from a prominent family of sorts with a lot of money. With that said, I can only guess Ryou or Masaya dated someone who was part of a family or organization that was against your family—and they either didn't believe they were or didn't know." Touya explained.
"Yes, correct. I don't know what I can and cannot tell you, so I'll just say Masaya dated a girl who was the daughter of a man who hated our father. Our father didn't understand why, but he kept everything he knew locked away in his head or a safe. Ryou caught on right away and made sure she never got anywhere near father's things. Masaya accused Ryou of being jealous and all that. Then when she admitted it and broke up with Masaya, he got pissed and accused Ryou of not saying anything to him." Keiichiro replied.
"So—which one is smarter? Or are they equal?" Haruka questioned, interested.
"Ryou." Keiichiro answered.
"That was quick." "You didn't even hesitate." The others replied, stunned.
"Because there's nothing to think or hesitate about. Ryou is smarter. I bet he's probably the smartest one in this house." Keiichiro replied with a smile.
"How can you say that?" Michiru questioned.
"Because at ten years of age, his IQ was well over 180. Now, I believe when he was last tested, his IQ is now at 250 or higher." Keiichiro answered, shocking everyone around him.
"He's smarter than Ami. Why wasn't he put into the third-year class?" Koji and Jen inquired, stunned.
"From what I understand, Mom wanted Ryou and Masaya in the same class grade." Keiichiro answered.
"Wow." The others replied, stunned.
"Who the hell is the hyper blonde we're sharing a room with?" Kurogane couldn't take it anymore and changed the subject.
"Fai?" Fuyuki and Touya inquired, watching Kurogane.
"Yeah, him." Kurogane replied.
"I don't really know him yet." Fuyuki and Touya responded.
"I know him and his sisters, Minako and Usagi. They're a good family, but they're all a bunch of airheads. When they were younger, Fai's twin brother was kidnapped and murdered, so Fai hides his pain with laughter and high energy. I think he was ten at the time. Usagi and Minako were seven. Usagi's probably the biggest airhead and crybaby of the family, but she also has the biggest heart. And Minako I'd have to say is probably the biggest sports diva and drama queen of the family. But like I said, they're good people. It just takes time to get used to them—especially Fai." Haruka explained, watching Fai laughing and having a good time, trying to get the others to laugh along with him.
"What's going on?" Kurogane asked Sayuri when she walked over.
"Bathroom." Sayuri answered, locating the bathroom.
"She hides behind a mask as well, doesn't she?" Mamoru questioned, speaking up.
"You can tell?" Kish asked, getting another slice of pizza.
"She tries, but she doesn't hide it well." Kurogane sighed.
"She doesn't open up for anyone." Toshi mumbled.
"Behave." Nami scolded her husband, smacking him over the head.
"Is something wrong?" Sayuri softly asked, walking over.
"No, Dear. Your grandfather is just complaining about moving again." Nami lied, watching Sayuri.
"Are you ok?" Kish questioned, concerned.
"Yeah. The blonde guy—Fai: he's very loud. But he's also hiding behind his smile; he seems sad." Sayuri softly replied.
"Just never mind right now. Let's just get to know everyone before we say anything." Kurogane calmly told Sayuri.
"Ok." Sayuri replied before returning to the living area with the others.
"What's that look for? Why are you looking at your grandmother like that?" Toshi demanded, watching Kurogane.
"Sayuri's not stupid or even dumb; she can see when you're upset or lying to her. She doesn't know what, but she knows you just lied to her when you said Grandfather was just complaining. He's good at that—and he doesn't hide it." Kurogane answered Toshi while watching Nami before walking away.
"Hey. Do you still want to go explore the trails and stuff with the others and me?" Ryou asked Sayuri when she walked back over.
"I'd love to." Sayuri replied, smiling while tilting her head a little.
"Uh, uh, uh. Not anymore tonight. It's late and it's already dark out. Go tomorrow when the sun is out." Nami, Sakura, and Jen firmly interjected themselves into the conversation, noting that the sun was indeed going down and becoming dark.
"Ok." The teens replied, somewhat annoyed.
"Good, now why don't you all go get ready for bed. You know—shower and pajamas. Then if you want, you can hang out somewhere and watch a movie—maybe in the living area." Nami insisted.
"Each of your rooms has a shower nearby, correct?" Sakura questioned, smiling.
"Yes." Everyone replied before heading upstairs.
"I think that went well." Jen spoke up, watching the teens heading upstairs, followed by Keiichiro, Mamoru, Pie, and Touya.
Each room had a shower and a tub, so they took turns taking a quick shower. And those who didn't take a shower would take one in the morning.
Zakuro & Ami:
1. Math-Mr. Frick 7:00-7:45 AM
2. Science-Mr. Moss 7:50-8:35 AM
3. History-Mr. Bacon 8:40-9:25 AM
4. Grammar-Ms. Nashi 9:30-10:15 AM
5. Health-Mrs. Bacon 10:20-11:05 PM
6. Home Economics-Ms. Haddingfield 12:00-12:45 PM
7. Music- Mrs. Jags 12:50-1:35 PM
8. Photography-Mr. Heaker 1:40-2:25 PM
9. Creative Writing-Ms. Sake 2:30-3:15 PM
10. Physical Education-Mr. Vesps 4:30-5:30 PM
Taiya:
1. Math-Mr. Frick 7:00-7:45 AM
2. Science-Mr. Moss 7:50-8:35 AM
3. History-Mr. Bacon 8:40-9:25 AM
4. Grammar-Ms. Nashi 9:30-10:15 AM
5. Health-Mrs. Bacon 10:20-11:05 PM
6. Home Economics-Ms. Haddingfield 12:00-12:45 PM
7. Music- Mrs. Jags 12:50-1:35 PM
8. Photography-Mr. Heaker 1:40-2:25 PM
9. Mythology-Mr. Seji 2:30-3:15 PM
10. Physical Education-Mr. Vesps 4:30-5:30 PM
Seiya, Taiki, & Yaten:
1. Math-Mr. Frick 7:00-7:45 AM
2. Science-Mr. Moss 7:50-8:35 AM
3. History-Mr. Bacon 8:40-9:25 AM
4. Grammar-Ms. Nashi 9:30-10:15 AM
5. Health-Mrs. Bacon 10:20-11:05 PM
6. Shop Class-Mr. Haddingfield 12:00-12:45 PM
7. Music- Mrs. Jags 12:50-1:35 PM
8. Photography-Mr. Heaker 1:40-2:25 PM
9. Creative Writing-Ms. Sake 2:30-3:15 PM
10. Physical Education-Mr. Vesps 4:30-5:30 PM
Mizuki, Fuyuki, & Akira:
1. Math-Mr. Frick 7:00-7:45 AM
2. Science-Mr. Moss 7:50-8:35 AM
3. History-Mr. Bacon 8:40-9:25 AM
4. Grammar-Ms. Nashi 9:30-10:15 AM
5. Health-Mrs. Bacon 10:20-11:05 PM
6. Shop Class-Mr. Haddingfield 12:00-12:45 PM
7. Music- Mrs. Jags 12:50-1:35 PM
8. Photography-Mr. Heaker 1:40-2:25 PM
9. Mythology-Mr. Seji 2:30-3:15 PM
10. Physical Education-Mr. Vesps 4:30-5:30 PM
Pudding, Berry, Rini, & Hotaru:
1. Grammar-Ms. Nashi 7:00-7:45 AM
2. Health-Mrs. Bacon 7:50-8:35 AM
3. Math-Mr. Frick 8:40-9:25 AM
4. Science-Mr. Moss 9:30-10:15 AM
5. History-Mr. Bacon 10:20-11:05 PM
6. Home Economics-Ms. Haddingfield 12:00-12:45 PM
7. Music- Mrs. Jags 12:50-1:35 PM
8. Photography-Mr. Heaker 1:40-2:25 PM
9. Creative Writing-Ms. Sake 2:30-3:15 PM
10. Physical Education-Mr. Vesps 4:30-5:30 PM
Tart, Tasuku, Hikaru, & Natsu:
1. Grammar-Ms. Nashi 7:00-7:45 AM
2. Health-Mrs. Bacon 7:50-8:35 AM
3. Math-Mr. Frick 8:40-9:25 AM
4. Science-Mr. Moss 9:30-10:15 AM
5. History-Mr. Bacon 10:20-11:05 PM
6. Shop Class-Mr. Haddingfield 12:00-12:45 PM
7. Music- Mrs. Jags 12:50-1:35 PM
8. Photography-Mr. Heaker 1:40-2:25 PM
9. Mythology-Mr. Koji 2:30-3:15 PM
10. Physical Education-Mr. Vesps 4:30-5:30 PM
Ichigo, Sayuri, Usagi, Makoto, & Lettuce:
1. History-Mr. Bacon 7:00-7:45 AM
2. Math-Mr. Frick 7:50-8:35 AM
3. Science-Mr. Moss 8:40-9:25 AM
4. Health-Mrs. Bacon 9:30-10:15 AM
5. Grammar-Ms. Nashi 10:20-11:05 PM
6. Home Economics-Ms. Haddingfield 12:00-12:45 PM
7. Music- Mrs. Jags 12:50-1:35 PM
8. Art-Mrs. Heaker 1:40-2:25 PM
9. Creative Writing-Ms. Sake 2:30-3:15 PM
10. Physical Education-Mr. Vesps 4:30-5:30 PM
Mint, Minako, Rei, & Maya:
1. History-Mr. Bacon 7:00-7:45 AM
2. Math-Mr. Frick 7:50-8:35 AM
3. Science-Mr. Moss 8:40-9:25 AM
4. Health-Mrs. Bacon 9:30-10:15 AM
5. Grammar-Ms. Nashi 10:20-11:05 PM
6. Home Economics-Ms. Haddingfield 12:00-12:45 PM
7. Music- Mrs. Jags 12:50-1:35 PM
8. Photography-Mr. Heaker 1:40-2:25 PM
9. Mythology-Mr. Seji 2:30-3:15 PM
10. Physical Education-Mr. Vesps 4:30-5:30 PM
Ryou, Kish, & Masaya:
1. History-Mr. Bacon 7:00-7:45 AM
2. Math-Mr. Frick 7:50-8:35 AM
3. Science-Mr. Moss 8:40-9:25 AM
4. Health-Mrs. Bacon 9:30-10:15 AM
5. Grammar-Ms. Nashi 10:20-11:05 PM
6. Shop Class-Mr. Haddingfield 12:00-12:45 PM
7. Music- Mrs. Jags 12:50-1:35 PM
8. Art-Mrs. Heaker 1:40-2:25 PM
9. Creative Writing-Ms. Sake 2:30-3:15 PM
10. Physical Education-Mr. Vesps 4:30-5:30 PM