InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Bankotsu's Futuristic Escapades ❯ twenty ( Chapter 20 )
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
By: kittyb78 
Kagome's friends' reactions to the news broadcast.
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Drama | Type: Continuation | Uploaded On: 12.22.2009 | Pages: 3 | Words: 2.9K | Visits: 281 | Status: Work In Progress
Kagome's friends' reactions to the news broadcast.
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Drama | Type: Continuation | Uploaded On: 12.22.2009 | Pages: 3 | Words: 2.9K | Visits: 281 | Status: Work In Progress
Disclaimer: I do not own the Characters, only this plot line and all its insane little twists.
A big thanks to The Invisible Author for proofing this! XD
A/N: underlined is the previous broadcast as it was being aired in the classroom at the school.
Chapter twenty:
Kichi’s face fell as she stuttered, “I beg your pardon?” unsure she had heard the man correctly.
Bankotsu repeated seriously, “I will not be taking over Ryuusan Weapons Incorporated. Grandfather and I have decided to sell the company along with all of its franchises.”
Kichi asked, stunned, “Did we… just hear him correctly?” placing the microphone in front of the older male.
Completely stone-faced, Tomi assured her, “Yes, Kichi, you heard him correctly. Bankotsu has made his position on this point perfectly clear. I’m an old man and won’t be around much longer. As you know I’ve been increasingly ill recently.”
She nodded, “Yes, we all know of your health situation."
He continued, “I won’t be around forever, and Bankotsu never did want to be a businessman. “
Unable to fathom why, she asked, “Ryuusan Weapons Inc. has been independently owned and run by the Ryuusan family since it was first founded in the beginning of the seventeenth century. Why after over three centuries have you decided to let it go to someone unrelated to you?”
Tomi answered honestly, “I’ve come to realize that the company isn’t what makes our bloodline who we are. Thanks to Bankotsu here, I’ve realized that simply doing the best at whatever we chose to do is what sets the Ryuusan clan apart from the others.”
He added, “It would have been nice to keep the company in the family. But when Bankotsu went missing and I realized that I had become the sole remaining Ryuusan… something deep inside made me stop and really examine the situation.”
Kichi nodded for him to continue. Tomi explained, “Sitting here in this huge manor without the laughter of a child to help brighten it up, I suddenly realized how lonely of a path my way of thinking had been leading to.”
Taking a deep breath he informed everyone, “When you're alone despite having the place full of servants, things become so much clearer. I realized within months of Bankotsu’s disappearance that I had made a major mistake.” Adding seriously, “I vowed to myself then and there to find him no matter how long it took and make things right.”
He added wisely, “being surrounded by the vast wealth our family has amassed over the years and no family to share it with… I came to realize that even if it meant selling the company along with everything I owned, I wanted my great-grandson back with me.”
Turning to Bankotsu, Tomi continued, “He is the only blood I have left in the entire world! The only remaining bond I have with my grandson, who unfortunately died a long time ago along with his wife.”
Tears entering his eyes, Tomi said, “I am but an old man whose time is drawing neigh. I want to spend the remaining time I have with my great-grandson and hear all about what he did while he was gone. I want to get to know this beautiful young lady who managed win the heart of my only great-grandson. I’m sure she has to be one hell of an extraordinary woman to win over my stubborn lad.”
Bankotsu grinned, saying, “That she is, Grandfather.” Adding, “I too want to treasure whatever time we have left, catching up on all that we have missed in each other’s lives. These last six years have taught me the true value of having blood relations around and that we should treasure what precious time we are given with them.”
Overjoyed with how things were turning out, Kagome sobbed into her handkerchief as she watched the two stubborn males setting aside their pride for each other, actually reaching out to each other after all these years.
Bankotsu blinked away his threatening tears and draped an arm around her waist adding, “I want our future children to know what a great family they come from, on both sides.” earning a watery smile from his beloved who sobbed, “Me too, Ban.”
Tomi wiped his tears away, concluding, “So we decided to sell the company, and keep the house and other properties for the future generations to be able to learn about and appreciate their heritage, and to see for themselves the inherent beauty of the land that their ancient ancestors once walked on.”
Kichi repeated, dumbfounded, “But you sold the company, why?” still unable to believe that bombshell.
Placing his old hand over his beloved great-grandson’s, Tomi said seriously, “We don’t need the company, and we don’t need the money. All that we need is right here with us now. So we’ve sold the company. As a matter of fact, the deal was officially closed just this morning. The new owners will be making their official statement later this week.”
The reporter faced the camera man and said, “Well folks, you heard it here first. This is Kichi Misao for B.Y.K. news, signing off.” and motioned for the camera man to cut. He nodded, cutting the footage and began taking down the equipment.
Kichi turned the Tomi and said, “Again, thank you, Mr. Ryuusan for allowing me the exclusive interview.” bowing to him.
He nodded to her, replying, “Anytime, my dear.” and sat in his recliner.
She bowed to Bankotsu saying, “Thank you, and congratulations on your engagement.”
Bankotsu said, “Thanks,” grinning as big as day.
She informed them, “We should re-air the segment on the early afternoon showing at three p.m. sharp.” and took her leave along with the cameraman (cameraman is one word). They were buzzed through the gate, and they left.
--
Back at the school approximately an hour ago:
The students were watching a mandatory news broadcast about what was happening in the world in their classroom on TV sets when an unexpected bulletin took over.
“This is Kichi Misao coming to you with a B. Y. K. exclusive- live inside the reputed Ryuusan Manor. With me is Mr. Tomi Ryuusan, along with some very special guests.”
Knowing that anything concerning the Tomi Ryuusan was big news, they all stopped what they were doing and paid attention. Even the teachers were glued to the set awaiting the big announcement. Not one of them had been prepared for what they were about to learn.
“Thank you for allowing me to be the one to have this exclusive interview.” Leading into the big news, she asked, “Can you tell us why we are here?”
“Since you were the one who covered the last broadcast, I felt it only right you be here to witness the results firsthand.”
The cameraman then panned to the couch where Bankotsu, Kagome, and her family all sat waiting.
Eri gasped and said, “It can’t be.” as she leaned forward trying to get a better look.
“I am more pleased than words can say to announce that my great grandson, Bankotsu Ryuusan, has finally returned home.” as he stood beside Bankotsu.
Eri’s eyes bulged out as she thought, 'Oh Kami, you mean that drop-dead gorgeous hunk we saw Kagome out with a week ago was actually Bankotsu Ryuusan?'
Yuka’s eyes about popped out of their sockets as she thought, 'Why are Kagome and her family there?'
Ayumi’s eyes showed confusion as she thought, slightly hurt, 'Why didn’t Kagome tell us who he was?'
“Go ahead and introduce them, lad.”
“This lovely young woman is Kagome. We’ve been through a lot together, and will continue to do so for the rest of our lives.”
The three girls’ eyes widened as they thought, 'Wait, did he just imply what I think he did?'
“So then you are saying that she is your fiancée, correct?”
“You bet your ass she is.”
The stunned trio of girls all thought, 'Kagome how could you not tell- ?' cutting off the thought as their jaws dropped watching the kiss.
Suddenly the class began whooping and hollering. Catcalls also ensued. One guy even stood up calling out, “Go, Higurashi!”
The majority of the class continued enthusiastically carrying on as the kiss seemed to last forever.
The guys from the afternoon in the alley all thought, 'That guy was a fucking Ryuusan?!'
--
In the back of the room in his usual desk, Hojo had been staring at the screen in a near frozen state from shock since he had first noticed the girl of his desire.
Seeing her there had shocked him. Finding out his rival had been none other the Ryuusan heir himself really blew him out of the water.
But watching how passionate a kiss the two were sharing, and on a live broadcast no less, this was just too much. His blue eyes slowly rolled back in his head and still in the seated position, his shock-stiffened body simply toppled over onto the floor with a loud crash.
Eri whipped her head around, crying out, horrified, “Oh dear, Hojo!” running over to check on the poor kid.
The class was half paying attention to the news broadcast and the other half trying to revive their poor classmate.
The teacher blinked then ordered one of the girls to go get the nurse. Eri ran towards the nurse's office, slightly panicked.
--
The nurse came in and checked on Hojo, before ordering two of the strongest looking boys to carry him to her office.
Yuka sighed, “Poor Hojo, the shock of it all must have been too much for him.” shaking her head sadly. The rest of the class went back to watching the broadcast, wondering what other shocking revelations would come.
“It’s wonderful to see that all of the effort you’ve put into searching for him has paid off so well.” Adapting her professionalism, she asked, “Wonderful as all of this is, I’m told that it isn’t the only reason you called us here. Is that correct?”
“You’re right. I wanted to let the world know not only is Bankotsu back, but happily engaged to a wonderful young woman as well. There is also one more bit of news we would like to share with everyone.”
“Go ahead, lad, tell them.”
“Well, Miss Misao, the last announcement we want to make today concerns our family business.”
“And what announcement is that?”
“I will not be taking over Ryuusan Weapons Incorporated.”
A chorus of audible gasps ripped across the entire classroom leaving everyone stunned.
After getting over her own shock, the teacher stood turning off the broadcast and said, “Oh my.” Facing her class, she said, “We’ve certainly had a rather shocking morning, eh?”
Taking a deep breath she continued, “As stated before the broadcast, you’re assignment is to write a four page essay about the news that is happening today in the world.”
--
Back at Ryuusan Manor:
Tomi said, “Sora, I want you and your family to feel free to stay here until the press dies down a bit if you prefer. I’m afraid after all these big bombshells the press is going to into a frenzy.
She nodded, “Thank you, Tomi. I think it might be best if we did at least for a while.”
He nodded adding, “However long you like, there is plenty of room.”
Holding his betrothed’s hand, Bankotsu said, “Come with me, Kags, there is something I want to show you.” and escorted her outside the back of the mansion.
Facing the others, Tomi asked, “How would the rest of you like a tour of the mansion?”
Sora’s face lit up and she said, “That would be wonderful.” smiling at her father’s oldest friend.
Hiromasa agreed, “Sounds good to me.” smiling at his daughter.
Souta said, “If it’s alright, I’d rather check out some of the video games?” staring from his mother to their host.
Tomi chuckled, “It’s fine by me. That is if your mother doesn’t mind?” staring at Sora as he waited for her answer.
Sora smiled answering, “That’s fine, dear, just don’t get too worked up.” Knowing how excitable her son could get when wrapped up in his games.
Souta grinned and took off toward the entertainment room. Sora and Hiromasa followed Tomi as he gave them a guided tour.
--
With Bankotsu and Kagome:
Bankotsu and Kagome walked outside the back door and into the relaxing atmosphere of the Japanese Zen Garden.
They stepped out onto an intricately crafted wooden porch. Each step was a three foot thick slab of wood that had been sanded down and varnished to protect them from all possible weather and to bring out the wood’s natural luster. The railings were also made from wood.
As they stepped off the last step, their feet connected with the smooth concrete path, lined on either side with bamboo poles extending to the sky about four feet above their heads before bending to create an arch, to help shade the first five feet of the path.
Once they stepped out of the archway, they were greeted by the inert beauty if the nature around them. In the middle of the large Zen-style garden was an ancient cherry blossom tree, which shaded the ground for several feet on all sides of it.
Kagome gasped and said, “Oh Ban, it’s beautiful.” staring up at the tree in awe.
Bankotsu said, “It was my favorite place to spend the summer afternoon when Grandfather was lecturing me on the ‘proper etiquette’ of someone of my stature.
He knelt down running a hand along the little rock garden and confessed, “I usually found a stick or a rock and doodled in the dirt, tuning him out.” with a fond smile.
She smiled and said, “It’s a beautiful garden.” squatting beside him.
He patted her arm and said, “Yeah, and soon I’d like to show you my favorite spot. But that will have to wait for another time.” as he heard the others coming out onto the porch.
Tomi said, “I figured we would find you out here lad.” as he walked over to her great-grandson, explaining, “This was one of the few places I would always know where to find him.”
Sora said, “What a lovely garden,” as she slowly drank in the sight of the multitude of flowers around them.
Bankotsu walked across the bridge with the large, colorful koi fish swimming around in the pond beneath them. Kagome’s hand was clasped in his as they continued over to where the thick forest of trees started. Stopping about ten feet from where the forest began, he said, “Through those trees back there is the hole I tripped into.”
She requested, “Will you show it to me sometime?” staring at him with curiosity in her big brown eyes.
He promised, “Someday I will. And I will also take you to my favorite retreat spot too.” kissing her cheek, before walking back over to the path and inside the mansion.
--
Back in the nurse’s office at the school:
Eri, Yuka, and Ayumi sat around waiting anxiously. Slowly Hojo’s eyes drifted open, and he asked, “Where am I? What happened?” as he slowly sat up.
Yuka said, “Hojo, thank goodness. You passed out in class after the news broadcast.” staring at him with concern in her eyes.
His eyes widened, and then he sighed heavily before staring at the ground. Carefully he got out of the bed and walked out of the door.
Ayumi asked, worried, “Should we go after him? You know, to make sure he gets home and all?”
Eri said, “You’re right, Ayumi, let’s go girls.” and they quickly caught up with the slightly disoriented boy, who was trying to absorb the shocking news as best he could.
--
A/N: Okay that’s the end of chapter twenty. Enjoy and Merry Christmas! XD
A big thanks to The Invisible Author for proofing this! XD
A/N: underlined is the previous broadcast as it was being aired in the classroom at the school.
Chapter twenty:
Kichi’s face fell as she stuttered, “I beg your pardon?” unsure she had heard the man correctly.
Bankotsu repeated seriously, “I will not be taking over Ryuusan Weapons Incorporated. Grandfather and I have decided to sell the company along with all of its franchises.”
Kichi asked, stunned, “Did we… just hear him correctly?” placing the microphone in front of the older male.
Completely stone-faced, Tomi assured her, “Yes, Kichi, you heard him correctly. Bankotsu has made his position on this point perfectly clear. I’m an old man and won’t be around much longer. As you know I’ve been increasingly ill recently.”
She nodded, “Yes, we all know of your health situation."
He continued, “I won’t be around forever, and Bankotsu never did want to be a businessman. “
Unable to fathom why, she asked, “Ryuusan Weapons Inc. has been independently owned and run by the Ryuusan family since it was first founded in the beginning of the seventeenth century. Why after over three centuries have you decided to let it go to someone unrelated to you?”
Tomi answered honestly, “I’ve come to realize that the company isn’t what makes our bloodline who we are. Thanks to Bankotsu here, I’ve realized that simply doing the best at whatever we chose to do is what sets the Ryuusan clan apart from the others.”
He added, “It would have been nice to keep the company in the family. But when Bankotsu went missing and I realized that I had become the sole remaining Ryuusan… something deep inside made me stop and really examine the situation.”
Kichi nodded for him to continue. Tomi explained, “Sitting here in this huge manor without the laughter of a child to help brighten it up, I suddenly realized how lonely of a path my way of thinking had been leading to.”
Taking a deep breath he informed everyone, “When you're alone despite having the place full of servants, things become so much clearer. I realized within months of Bankotsu’s disappearance that I had made a major mistake.” Adding seriously, “I vowed to myself then and there to find him no matter how long it took and make things right.”
He added wisely, “being surrounded by the vast wealth our family has amassed over the years and no family to share it with… I came to realize that even if it meant selling the company along with everything I owned, I wanted my great-grandson back with me.”
Turning to Bankotsu, Tomi continued, “He is the only blood I have left in the entire world! The only remaining bond I have with my grandson, who unfortunately died a long time ago along with his wife.”
Tears entering his eyes, Tomi said, “I am but an old man whose time is drawing neigh. I want to spend the remaining time I have with my great-grandson and hear all about what he did while he was gone. I want to get to know this beautiful young lady who managed win the heart of my only great-grandson. I’m sure she has to be one hell of an extraordinary woman to win over my stubborn lad.”
Bankotsu grinned, saying, “That she is, Grandfather.” Adding, “I too want to treasure whatever time we have left, catching up on all that we have missed in each other’s lives. These last six years have taught me the true value of having blood relations around and that we should treasure what precious time we are given with them.”
Overjoyed with how things were turning out, Kagome sobbed into her handkerchief as she watched the two stubborn males setting aside their pride for each other, actually reaching out to each other after all these years.
Bankotsu blinked away his threatening tears and draped an arm around her waist adding, “I want our future children to know what a great family they come from, on both sides.” earning a watery smile from his beloved who sobbed, “Me too, Ban.”
Tomi wiped his tears away, concluding, “So we decided to sell the company, and keep the house and other properties for the future generations to be able to learn about and appreciate their heritage, and to see for themselves the inherent beauty of the land that their ancient ancestors once walked on.”
Kichi repeated, dumbfounded, “But you sold the company, why?” still unable to believe that bombshell.
Placing his old hand over his beloved great-grandson’s, Tomi said seriously, “We don’t need the company, and we don’t need the money. All that we need is right here with us now. So we’ve sold the company. As a matter of fact, the deal was officially closed just this morning. The new owners will be making their official statement later this week.”
The reporter faced the camera man and said, “Well folks, you heard it here first. This is Kichi Misao for B.Y.K. news, signing off.” and motioned for the camera man to cut. He nodded, cutting the footage and began taking down the equipment.
Kichi turned the Tomi and said, “Again, thank you, Mr. Ryuusan for allowing me the exclusive interview.” bowing to him.
He nodded to her, replying, “Anytime, my dear.” and sat in his recliner.
She bowed to Bankotsu saying, “Thank you, and congratulations on your engagement.”
Bankotsu said, “Thanks,” grinning as big as day.
She informed them, “We should re-air the segment on the early afternoon showing at three p.m. sharp.” and took her leave along with the cameraman (cameraman is one word). They were buzzed through the gate, and they left.
--
Back at the school approximately an hour ago:
The students were watching a mandatory news broadcast about what was happening in the world in their classroom on TV sets when an unexpected bulletin took over.
“This is Kichi Misao coming to you with a B. Y. K. exclusive- live inside the reputed Ryuusan Manor. With me is Mr. Tomi Ryuusan, along with some very special guests.”
Knowing that anything concerning the Tomi Ryuusan was big news, they all stopped what they were doing and paid attention. Even the teachers were glued to the set awaiting the big announcement. Not one of them had been prepared for what they were about to learn.
“Thank you for allowing me to be the one to have this exclusive interview.” Leading into the big news, she asked, “Can you tell us why we are here?”
“Since you were the one who covered the last broadcast, I felt it only right you be here to witness the results firsthand.”
The cameraman then panned to the couch where Bankotsu, Kagome, and her family all sat waiting.
Eri gasped and said, “It can’t be.” as she leaned forward trying to get a better look.
“I am more pleased than words can say to announce that my great grandson, Bankotsu Ryuusan, has finally returned home.” as he stood beside Bankotsu.
Eri’s eyes bulged out as she thought, 'Oh Kami, you mean that drop-dead gorgeous hunk we saw Kagome out with a week ago was actually Bankotsu Ryuusan?'
Yuka’s eyes about popped out of their sockets as she thought, 'Why are Kagome and her family there?'
Ayumi’s eyes showed confusion as she thought, slightly hurt, 'Why didn’t Kagome tell us who he was?'
“Go ahead and introduce them, lad.”
“This lovely young woman is Kagome. We’ve been through a lot together, and will continue to do so for the rest of our lives.”
The three girls’ eyes widened as they thought, 'Wait, did he just imply what I think he did?'
“So then you are saying that she is your fiancée, correct?”
“You bet your ass she is.”
The stunned trio of girls all thought, 'Kagome how could you not tell- ?' cutting off the thought as their jaws dropped watching the kiss.
Suddenly the class began whooping and hollering. Catcalls also ensued. One guy even stood up calling out, “Go, Higurashi!”
The majority of the class continued enthusiastically carrying on as the kiss seemed to last forever.
The guys from the afternoon in the alley all thought, 'That guy was a fucking Ryuusan?!'
--
In the back of the room in his usual desk, Hojo had been staring at the screen in a near frozen state from shock since he had first noticed the girl of his desire.
Seeing her there had shocked him. Finding out his rival had been none other the Ryuusan heir himself really blew him out of the water.
But watching how passionate a kiss the two were sharing, and on a live broadcast no less, this was just too much. His blue eyes slowly rolled back in his head and still in the seated position, his shock-stiffened body simply toppled over onto the floor with a loud crash.
Eri whipped her head around, crying out, horrified, “Oh dear, Hojo!” running over to check on the poor kid.
The class was half paying attention to the news broadcast and the other half trying to revive their poor classmate.
The teacher blinked then ordered one of the girls to go get the nurse. Eri ran towards the nurse's office, slightly panicked.
--
The nurse came in and checked on Hojo, before ordering two of the strongest looking boys to carry him to her office.
Yuka sighed, “Poor Hojo, the shock of it all must have been too much for him.” shaking her head sadly. The rest of the class went back to watching the broadcast, wondering what other shocking revelations would come.
“It’s wonderful to see that all of the effort you’ve put into searching for him has paid off so well.” Adapting her professionalism, she asked, “Wonderful as all of this is, I’m told that it isn’t the only reason you called us here. Is that correct?”
“You’re right. I wanted to let the world know not only is Bankotsu back, but happily engaged to a wonderful young woman as well. There is also one more bit of news we would like to share with everyone.”
“Go ahead, lad, tell them.”
“Well, Miss Misao, the last announcement we want to make today concerns our family business.”
“And what announcement is that?”
“I will not be taking over Ryuusan Weapons Incorporated.”
A chorus of audible gasps ripped across the entire classroom leaving everyone stunned.
After getting over her own shock, the teacher stood turning off the broadcast and said, “Oh my.” Facing her class, she said, “We’ve certainly had a rather shocking morning, eh?”
Taking a deep breath she continued, “As stated before the broadcast, you’re assignment is to write a four page essay about the news that is happening today in the world.”
--
Back at Ryuusan Manor:
Tomi said, “Sora, I want you and your family to feel free to stay here until the press dies down a bit if you prefer. I’m afraid after all these big bombshells the press is going to into a frenzy.
She nodded, “Thank you, Tomi. I think it might be best if we did at least for a while.”
He nodded adding, “However long you like, there is plenty of room.”
Holding his betrothed’s hand, Bankotsu said, “Come with me, Kags, there is something I want to show you.” and escorted her outside the back of the mansion.
Facing the others, Tomi asked, “How would the rest of you like a tour of the mansion?”
Sora’s face lit up and she said, “That would be wonderful.” smiling at her father’s oldest friend.
Hiromasa agreed, “Sounds good to me.” smiling at his daughter.
Souta said, “If it’s alright, I’d rather check out some of the video games?” staring from his mother to their host.
Tomi chuckled, “It’s fine by me. That is if your mother doesn’t mind?” staring at Sora as he waited for her answer.
Sora smiled answering, “That’s fine, dear, just don’t get too worked up.” Knowing how excitable her son could get when wrapped up in his games.
Souta grinned and took off toward the entertainment room. Sora and Hiromasa followed Tomi as he gave them a guided tour.
--
With Bankotsu and Kagome:
Bankotsu and Kagome walked outside the back door and into the relaxing atmosphere of the Japanese Zen Garden.
They stepped out onto an intricately crafted wooden porch. Each step was a three foot thick slab of wood that had been sanded down and varnished to protect them from all possible weather and to bring out the wood’s natural luster. The railings were also made from wood.
As they stepped off the last step, their feet connected with the smooth concrete path, lined on either side with bamboo poles extending to the sky about four feet above their heads before bending to create an arch, to help shade the first five feet of the path.
Once they stepped out of the archway, they were greeted by the inert beauty if the nature around them. In the middle of the large Zen-style garden was an ancient cherry blossom tree, which shaded the ground for several feet on all sides of it.
Kagome gasped and said, “Oh Ban, it’s beautiful.” staring up at the tree in awe.
Bankotsu said, “It was my favorite place to spend the summer afternoon when Grandfather was lecturing me on the ‘proper etiquette’ of someone of my stature.
He knelt down running a hand along the little rock garden and confessed, “I usually found a stick or a rock and doodled in the dirt, tuning him out.” with a fond smile.
She smiled and said, “It’s a beautiful garden.” squatting beside him.
He patted her arm and said, “Yeah, and soon I’d like to show you my favorite spot. But that will have to wait for another time.” as he heard the others coming out onto the porch.
Tomi said, “I figured we would find you out here lad.” as he walked over to her great-grandson, explaining, “This was one of the few places I would always know where to find him.”
Sora said, “What a lovely garden,” as she slowly drank in the sight of the multitude of flowers around them.
Bankotsu walked across the bridge with the large, colorful koi fish swimming around in the pond beneath them. Kagome’s hand was clasped in his as they continued over to where the thick forest of trees started. Stopping about ten feet from where the forest began, he said, “Through those trees back there is the hole I tripped into.”
She requested, “Will you show it to me sometime?” staring at him with curiosity in her big brown eyes.
He promised, “Someday I will. And I will also take you to my favorite retreat spot too.” kissing her cheek, before walking back over to the path and inside the mansion.
--
Back in the nurse’s office at the school:
Eri, Yuka, and Ayumi sat around waiting anxiously. Slowly Hojo’s eyes drifted open, and he asked, “Where am I? What happened?” as he slowly sat up.
Yuka said, “Hojo, thank goodness. You passed out in class after the news broadcast.” staring at him with concern in her eyes.
His eyes widened, and then he sighed heavily before staring at the ground. Carefully he got out of the bed and walked out of the door.
Ayumi asked, worried, “Should we go after him? You know, to make sure he gets home and all?”
Eri said, “You’re right, Ayumi, let’s go girls.” and they quickly caught up with the slightly disoriented boy, who was trying to absorb the shocking news as best he could.
--
A/N: Okay that’s the end of chapter twenty. Enjoy and Merry Christmas! XD