Pretear Fan Fiction ❯ Field Full of Daisies ❯ Leafenia Love ( Chapter 3 )

[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]

Field Full Of Daisies-Leafenia Love

“What's his problem?” Kagura sneered at the back of Sasame's head.

Himeno looked nervously at her suspicious sister. “W-What do you mean?”

“I don't know. He didn't say `HI' like he does every morning…rather annoyingly.”

“So…you're angry…because he didn't annoy you this morning? Are you feeling okay? Or maybe---“

“Don't even finish that sentence. I'm not angry…just…”

“Heh heh, Kagura you worry to much. Don't be so suspicious of people.” She's going to find out. She always does. Why do I even bother?

“…Yeah, you're probably right.” Kagura leaned back in her chair and glanced at her sister. “Besides, you wouldn't keep anything from me. Would you?”

“Of course not,” Himeno smiled.

Kagura leaned her head against her desk and tried going to sleep. After all, it's not like she cared about what the teacher had to say. “So that's what you'll be doing next week.”

“Huh?” Kagura sprang her head up.

“You mean you weren't paying attention?” Himeno asked in disbelief.

Yayoi who sat in the seat beside Kagura smiled. “You and I have been assigned fund raising duty for the Fall Halloween Festival.”

“…What festival?”

“You never change Kagura. We could be taking a test right now and you'd pass in ten minutes.”

“…So what exactly am I doing again?”

“I'll show you Kagura. I get this job every year.”

“…That must be so fulfilling.”

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Day 1

Kagura sat at a table with a big sign over it saying `Donate to the school's Festival Today' sign over it. Those with their lunches passed by, practically laughing. Kagura was bored out of her mind. “There's gotta be a better way than this. We're just sitting here.”

“This is the way I've been doing it since my first year. And look we made…five dollars!”

“Yayoi…that's your lunch money.”

“Small price you have to pay for a beautiful festival-“

“That's it! I'm going to buy you lunch. We're going to eat. And we'll continue with this tomorrow in a way that will actually make us some money. Got it?”

Yayoi flinched and nodded. “Y-yes.”

“Good girl. Now let's go eat. I'm hungry.”

Day 2

“So how much money did you and Kagura make so far?” the teacher asked with much enthusiasm.

“We made five-“

“We're working on it,” Kagura cut off.

“What is that? Code for we're broke?” Kyoko laughed. Kagura glanced over at the back of Kyoko's head for a moment, as if saying something in her mind to her but her expression was unreadable.

“Yeah, we are. But then again if you're so concerned you should have stopped by and dropped something in. We'd appreciate it.”

Kyoko was caught off guard by the comment. “Whatever,” was all she managed to say. A Sasame had still not said a word to her. Not that she cared but every time she saw him, he was either trying to hard not to look at her, or averting his eyes when she'd glance over.

…I knew it. They're all pervs…

Yayoi and Kagura were let out early to eat lunch so they could spend the rest of the lunch period getting money. “Now Yayoi, watch and learn.”

“What are you going to do?”

Kagura approached a bunch of guys huddled around a locker in the hall. “Hey,” she smiled.

They turned and looked at her. “Wow, your highness actually speaks?”

“What do you want Sanma?”

“Aw is that any way to greet a fellow classmate,” Kagura said, shaking the collection jar in there faces. “I think it's pretty obvious why I'm here. So, would you mind?” She actually, and I mean this is rare, sounded sincere and kind.

One of the guys laughed. “Hah, you being nice is worth the money,” he said dropping a few bucks in.

“Thank you so much.”

“It's not worth it for me,” one guy spoke. Kagura looked in his direction and winced momentarily. “Unless, you planning on being a little nicer.”

Kagura was at the end of her `nice phase. She squeezed the guy by the arm, turned him around and shoved him against a locker. “That nice enough?”

“K-Kagura-chan!” Yayoi said nervously. “I don't think you should be doing that.”

Kagura handed Yayoi the jar and grabbed the guy's wallet before pushing him on the floor. Then she took a look at his I.D. “Well…Tetsu,” She emptied his wallet into the jar. “Thanks for the kind and,” Kagura began while staring at how much money was emptied, “Very generous donation.” She turned to the others. “Does anyone else want to say no?”

While Kagura and Yayoi were out `raising money' Himeno and Hayate were out looking for the two. Hayate was being just a grumpy as ever. How did I get stuck working with this tulip-headed brat? Just because we sit next to each other doesn't mean we should have to work together. And where the hell is that sister of hers? My feet are numb. Just as they made their way down the hall, a bunch of students were running in the opposite direction.

“What's going on,” Himeno asked.

One girl stopped, panting for a while. “You don't want to go down there. That new kid is sucking everyone dry for that festival. But she's not getting my last five dollars.”

“You mean Kagura-chan? That's crazy. She wouldn't hurt a fly.” O yeah, it her. Definitely her.

“Hey guys. Thanks for the donation!” Kagura waved. Each student took off faster.

Crazy woman. “You're harassing people!” Hayate said annoyed. “You could get in trouble! What's wrong with you!”

“Nah. The principle won't say anything.”

“Please, help Kagura,” Yayoi pleaded, trotting behind with a full, heavy looking jar of money.

“O, just give it Ha-chan over there. He's a big strong man, he can carry it.”

“Ha-chan? Don't call me that and don't speak for me!”

“It's either Ha-chan or Baka.”

“You-“

“Please Hayate. Yayoi's arms are going to snap,” Himeno pleaded.

Hayate looked down at her aggravated, but soon looked away. His face turned a bit red. “Just hand it over.”

“Thank you very much.”

“Whatever.”

“You're such a push over. What are you guys doing anyway?”

“We were looking for you. We're in charge of food and can't get started until we know the budget. How's the fund raising going?”

“Yeah, how the hell did you go from nothing to all of this?”

“We're just being a little more assertive. That's all.” Then some guy passed by Hayate to say Hi. Probably someone from the kendo team. As he walked away, Kagura tried stopping him. “Hey you! Donate money NOW!”

It doesn't get anymore assertive than that.

“Come on Baka, we need that jar.”

“Then you carry it!”

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“Alright, just focus. It's not hard.”

“Easy for you to say!” Himeno complained. “Besides, it's co-ed. Guys twice my size are going to hit me.”

“Cut the BS. I know you're not scared. Just nervous. Now get out there now!” Kagura pushed her into the room full of people staring at her, Hayate, captain of the team, being one of them. Himeno had to spar with some guy named Tetsu who Kagura immediately recognized. “Don't worry. It'll be easy,” Kagura laughed just before the door closed.

Kagura waited outside the room for what seemed like forever. She may not have seemed like she cared but she was, on some level, worried about Himeno. What if that Tetsu guy was beating the crap out of her sister right now? What am I thinking? She'll win. It's not rocket science. A while later Himeno came out, face slightly red.

“What? What happened?”

“Well…it was really close and…I lost.”

“O god-“

“But it depends on how good I did, not whether I won or lost. I could still make the team.”

“Yeah, you could,” Kagura sighed. She patted Himeno on the head. “Let's go home.”

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“Girls, having welcome dinner at the Ayanami's to welcome their family's visit during the Halloween slash Fall celebration week. Please join us after you clean up. It would be nice of you to come and meet the family before hand. -Sanma.”

“O god, that was today,” Kagura complained.

“We're late because I had try outs today.”

“Relax. The Baka's late too since he was there. Besides, it's not like I'm going out of my way to be early. I could care less about their family.” Kagura ripped the note off the door and walked inside. “We should hurry up anyway. Out of respect for Sanma and Ayanami.”

Himeno smiled. “Yes Onee-chan.” The two changed into their normal clothing. Kagura took her tongue ring out and kept the bands that covered her tattoo's on so she wouldn't completely freak out Ayanami's family. Though Kagura didn't think she looked any less scary. They walked over to the house next door. There was a lot of noise and conversation going on inside. Then there were shouts saying `Goh stop it! Don't! I'm serious stop!' `O what's wrong Sasame? Get over here!' `Goh, don't!' “Oy, what's going on in there?” Himeno asked. She now didn't want to knock on the door in fear that she'd walk in on something.

“I don't know. Probably some weird incest orgy or something. Just knock already-“

“Kagura, that's disgusting.”

Kagura gave a sly grin. “Like you weren't thinking something worse.”

“I wasn't---“

The door swung open and Sasame practically jumped out of it, knocking Kagura over in the process. The smile quickly faded from Sasame's face when he looked down at her. “I'm really, really sorry,” he apologized. Kagura just stared up at him, her face neutral. “It really wasn't my fault I just…uh…heh.”

“…Not that this isn't nice or anything but are you gonna get off me now or when you're done apologizing?”

Sasame's face went an even deeper red than it was before. He immediately jumped off of her. “Sorry.” Himeno tried her best to stifle her laugh but small giggles escaped.

“…So are you going to help me up?”

“Uh yeah.” Sasame grabbed her hand and helped her up. Then he just…stood there…like an idiot.

“…Are you going to invite us in or should we go home?”

“Uh, oh! No, come in!” Sasame smiled. Kagura and Himeno walked in behind Sasame. Himeno laughing because she couldn't hold it in any longer. This just made Sasame phase crimson from head to toe.

“What's wrong Sasame? I always thought you had a way with the ladies?”

Sasame sighed. “Goh…”

The two walked into the living room where everyone was. It was so crowded. “Everyone, these are our neighbors Himeno and Kagura. They were just adopted by Sanma not too long ago. Guys, this is Goh, Kei, Mannen, Hajime, and Shin.” The two walked into the living room and found a place to sit down. A couple of them stared at Kagura funny while she sat down.

“Hey lady, do you want some cookies?” Shin asked, holding one up to Kagura's face.

Kagura was a little surprised by the offer. She was good with kids…the kids that didn't run away scared of her…which was initial reaction…most of the time. But this one was so innocent. So adorable. “Thanks kid.” Kagura smiled at him and he smiled back.

“You're pretty.” Shin started munching on food again while the others laughed. Kagura turned red momentarily but smiled at the child again. “Aren't you polite. You Sasame's nephew?”

“Cousin.”

“And how old are you?”

“Seven.”

“Well if you're nothing like your grumpy or clumsy cousins then I think I like you already.”

“What was that you wanabee rocker!”

“See what I mean?” Shin looked from Kagura's smiling face to Hayate's grumpy one and smiled.

“So when did you two move next door?” Kei asked.

“Uh…three weeks ago,” Himeno answered. Mannen, Hajime, Shin, and Goh were going outside.

Shin grabbed Kagura by the hand. “Come outside with us Kagura-sama.”

“Uh, sure?” Kagura replied as she was dragged out to the backyard.

Mannen insisted on sparring with Goh but he always got knocked down. Kagura played with Shin and Hajime while laughing at Mannen's feeble attempts to get a hit on Goh. “Like you can do any better?” Mannen huffed. He got off the floor and dusted himself off.

“Mannen, don't be mean,” Hajime scowled.

“It's alright,” Kagura said getting up.

“I don't think it's such a good idea,” Goh waved.

“Non-sense. I'd love to,” she said taking fighting stance.

Meanwhile, Himeno was inside chatting it up with the Ayanami family. “Yeah, I tried out for the kendo team today. I didn't do all that good though.”

“You were good, even though you lost,” Hayate muttered.

Himeno appreciated the comment, even if it was a bit back handed. Then she turned around to see what the others were doing in the yard and saw Kagura about to fight Goh. O dear god. The others turned to see what she was staring at and became amused.

“Your sister can't really be that stupid.”

“Well if you insist,” Goh smiled. He just stood there, not really taking the whole thing seriously. “You really are a sparky little---“

Goh hadn't noticed her run up, and before he knew it, he was lying on the floor. “Quit fooling around and fight me,” Kagura smirked.

“Goh don't egg her on,” Himeno said concerned. Hayate draped his hand over Himeno's mouth.

“Shhhh, I want to watch.” Himeno's face went red and she froze under his hand. Kagura tried dropkicking Goh again but he just blocked it and pushed her back.

llllllllllllllllll

The night was enjoyable. Their family was odd but full of life. The food was good too. Himeno could see that since Sanma previously had no family, these people were as close as she could get. They seemed so warm toward her as if she were just apart of the family. Though Kagura wasn't so eager to indulge into too much conversation. She showed them deserved respect but that was pretty much it. Though she did over apologize to Miss Ayanami for the dirt she had on her pants. It wasn't polite to track that stuff into another's home. After it was over, Himeno and Kagura went home. Kagura took a shower and changed into some boxers and a half top. Himeno dried her hair off and sat on Kagura's bed. “You could have been a little more friendlier instead of fighting their cousin.”

“The most fun I had all day. Besides, it's not like they got mad or anything.”

“And you didn't have to be so mean to Sasame. It was an accident.”

“Himeno, he fell on my boobs. They're still sore. Your lucky I didn't kick him in the b-“

“Yes, I know. But when he turned around I saw your face turn red.”

“No it didn't!”

“Yes it did! OOOOOooooo, You're blushing right now, Onee-chan! How cute! I think you didn't kick him because you wanted to stay like tha—“ Himeno was cut off when an enormous pillow was hurled at her face. “Hey!”

“But my little Hime shouldn't talk about what she doesn't know. Especially when she doesn't notice when something's right in front of her.”

“What are you talking about, Onee-chan?”

Kagura thought about it for a while then shook her head. “It's nothing.”

Himeno grabbed the other pillow on Kagura's bed and practically pounced on her. “Tell me!” There were muffled noises from under the pillow. “What?”

Kagura pushed Himeno off and smirked at her. “Now that I can breathe,” she began, “the baka next door.”

“Hmm?” Himeno was a little surprised. “Hayate? What about him?”

“I can't believe you have to ask. The guy turns into a tomato every time you smile at him. And when I say that I mean red and stupid. You tell him to do something and he does it…rather rudely though.”

Himeno's face went red but she only hit Kagura with a pillow and shrugged it off. “I'm sleepy,” Himeno yawned. She smoothed out her nightgown and lied down on Kagura's bed. “Scoot over,” Kagura pushed.

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Goh laid a few sheets down on Sasame's floor. “You don't still snore do you Goh?” Sasame was a light sleeper and Goh's snoring every holiday visit kept him awake. He'd rather have Kei sleep in his room, but he sleeps like the cript keeper and it scares him.

“No,” Goh waved. “At least I don't think so.”

“Uh huh…” Just then Shin's dog came scurrying into Sasame's room. “Hey Matty.” Sasame kneeled down on the floor and picked the little sienna covered dog up. “Shin just insists on bringing you everywhere he goes now doesn't he?” The dog barked quickly before jumping out of his arms and jumping up and down near the window.

“Hey what's your problem Mat-…ty…” Goh stopped talking and stared out the window while Sasame was busy on his computer. “Hey…Sasame…did you know your window…looks out into the room of that girl in the house next door?”

“Didn't notice,” Sasame lied.

“Did you know…she keeps it open?”

“Stop peeping, it's rude.” No wonder she thinks all guys are perverts…

“Aw, c'mon. Stop being so stuck up—“

“Respectful-“

“Whatever. Point is, she just took a shower and she's coming back…in a towel…with her window open.”

Sasame turned red a little, hesitating before looking. There, stood Kagura, wrapped in a purple wool towel as she closed the door behind her. Her red hair clung to the side of her ever neutral face as she walked out of sight, probably to get dressed in front of her closet. Which is probably why she doesn't care if the window's open. I can't say I'm not surprised. Sasame ignored the bit of disappointment, labeling it as an unhealthy thought to have toward your neighbor that you'd most likely have to face the next day.

“You are so lucky cuz. I live next to this stuck up prick of a girl and my window sees out into the backyard anyway.”

“Oh, I feel so sorry for you.”

“Hey, she's back.” Sasame went to sit beside his cousin, partially to indulge him…and partially to indulge himself. But he didn't pay any mind to that part. Kagura walked back in sight and sat on her bed, pinning her rouge mane up before bed.

“I didn't know our family was full of such indecent men,” Kei scowled. He walked into Sasame's room and nearly scared the two.

“It's not what it looks like Kei,” Sasame waved but Kei's eyebrow only raised higher at him.

Kagura turned her head to look out her window because she thought she heard something, but there was nothing there. “Hmm, I didn't know there was a window there…o well. Now where'd I put that thing…”

Sasame, Goh, and Kei had ducked to the right of the window. “That was close,” Sasame said nervously.

“Nah! We're too quick. Everything's alright,” Goh laughed. Sasame and Kei gave him a menacing look.

“Well if you're going to continue peeping into the other house then I'd much rather you not get caught. I wouldn't want you two tarnishing the family name. Excuse me for a one moment.”

The two stayed where they were and watched Kei leave the room, only to return with a large, tv looking contraption with an antenna. “What's that?”

Kei went to the position where they were hiding and sat down. He stuck the antenna partially out the window and turned the machine on. “It picks up picture from a long…or short distance away and I modified it to pick up sound too. You don't have to thank me, I feel bad enough.”

An image of Kagura popped up on screen and the muffled sound of her shuffling through something. “Where'd I put that thing…c'mon…ah!” Kagura pulled out a short sword no longer than her forearm, sheathed in a black case with the name Nocturne Rose engraved into the side. She fingered the small red beads dangling from it for a while, then got up and walked out of sight again. The sound of her shuffling through her closet came in loud into Sasame's room. “Where'd she get that short sword?” Goh asked.

“What are you idiots doing?” Hayate had stopped himself infront of Sasame's door on the way to his own room. The sight of the three crouched to one side of the window, staring at an image screen struck curiosity and momentary annoyance.

“C'mon Hayate, join us,” Goh smiled and signaled for him to come closer. He hesitantly walked into the room, to where they hid, and looked at the screen. “We're watching TV.” There was a knock on the door. “It's open.” Kagura walked in view again, turning her radio on and switching back and forth between radio stations. Himeno came doting in with a wide smile. Her pink hair seemed to bounce with her as she walked from the now closed door to Kagura's bed and sat down. Her hair was still slightly wet. She wore pink cotton sweats and a pink tanktop. Hayate froze where he stood. “T-TV, Goh!”

“Yeah, live TV!”

Hayate grinded his fist into the top of Goh's head. “You idiot! This is-…just…not right!”

“Then why are you still here?” Goh smirked. Hayate frowned at him and was about to leave when he noticed something.

“Is that a Tokian Saint tattoo?” Surely, lying on her chest out in the open due to her nightly attire, was a large black butterfly with the word `Knoktern' written over it in cursive. Sasame froze for a moment.

“I can't say I am…too surprised,” Kei stated bluntly.

“Whoa, you've got a Saint living next door?”

“And she looks down on us,” Hayate huffed. Their talking was cut short when Himeno spoke again.

“You could have been a little more friendlier instead of fighting their cousin.”

“The most fun I had all day. Besides, it's not like they got mad or anything.”

“And you didn't have to be so mean to Sasame. It was an accident.”

“Himeno, he fell on my boobs. They're still sore.”

The boys, even Hayate, laughed so hard they cried. Sasame wasn't laughing due to his immense embarrassment. He was almost sure all the blood had rushed to his cheeks by now.

“S-Stop laughing!”

“Ah, you sure have a way with women don't you?” Hayate smirked. Usually, he did. But for some reason every time he's around her something uncomfortable happens to make for an even more uncomfortable moment. “Yes, I know. But when he turned around I saw your face turn red.”

“No it didn't!”

“Yes it did! OOOOOooooo, You're blushing right now, Onee-chan! How cute! I think you didn't kick him because you wanted to stay like tha—“

Each pair of eyes widened the size of saucers. Kagura…blushing….and pigs really do fly. “That's scary, turn it off.”

“the baka next door.” “Hmm? Hayate? What about him?” “I can't believe you have to ask. The guy turns into a tomato every time you smile at him. And when I say that I mean red and stupid. You tell him to do something and he does it.” “Wow, I didn't know Hayate-cuz was such a softy---“ Goh spat out blankly but was immediately cut off by Hayate's rage.

“I'll kill that wannabe bad bitch!”

“Now, now Hayate, calm down before someone hears,” Sasame whispered. Hayate replied by stomping out of the room.

“They're going to bed. As should we.” Kei rose to his feet and turned the machine off. “Good night.”

“Night Kei.” Goh laid his sleeping bag out on the floor while Sasame shut down his computer. “You need to get a more comfortable rug.”

“Is that so?” Sasame replied distracted and drowsy. “Just please no snoring. I'd hate so much to drag you into the living room.” There in the living room is where the younger children were sleeping in front of the television.

“Alright! Though I can't make any promises.” Goh slithered himself under the cover and closed his eyes. “Night Sasame.”

“Yea,” Sasame mumbled. He rearranged his sweatpants, which had been jumbled out of position when they hid away from the window, then lazily scratched his bare chest before climbing into his bed. He rolled to one side of the bed facing the wall, and went to sleep with Matty curling up below his feet.

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Sasame awoke early the next day to the sound of his door being opened. He slid a heavy hand down his face to further his awakening. “Goh?” he said in a slightly scratchy groan.

“Your finally awake.”

“Ah ye---“ Sasame's mouth slammed shut and he looked to the person now closing the door. “K-K-Kagura! What the hell!”

Kagura looked at him funny before shaking up her rose colored red hair. The water from it dripped down the side of her neck. “Hey,” she smiled.

“W-What are you doing here!” Sasame became even more nervous than before. He slightly pulled what he noticed were rumpled sheets up closer to him. That wasn't the only thing he noticed. “EH!” Sasame looked down quickly at is naked person and pulled the sheets closer.

“Are you feeling okay?” Kagura asked with a smirk at his awkward behavior. She walked over to his bed and crawled toward him. This only made him even more uneasy as he backed toward the wall. “What's wrong,” she asked when inches away from his face.

“You really shouldn't be in here.”

Kagura leaned up and brushed her cheek against his. It was surprisingly dry even though her hair was wet. “Why not?”

Sasame stiffened. “You just shouldn't.”

She repeated the same action to the other side of his face. “So you want me to leave?” she whispered into his ear. It felt warm to him and knowing that made it worse. Her towel brushed against him and it only made for a more awkward position for him. She began biting at the cover and he let it slide off his shoulders, too startled to move. Then she leaned in closer to his face and…licked it.

Sasame flew forward, literally throwing Matty off of him in the process. “Matty?” Sasame could feel the left over dog hair clinging to the sides of his face and quickly wiped the slobber from his face. “Ugh,” he frowned before pulling the wet portion on his cover away from his skin. He looked down at himself, cheeks slightly red, and sighed deeply before slamming his flaxen haired head back against the mattress. He then began slapping his face with a bed pillow, literally cursing himself for peeping with Goh last night, and then for becoming aroused by an obviously unreal dream that included a dog making him uneasy instead of an actual girl. The dog continued barking. Then suddenly the already cracked door opened wide.

“Sasame dear, I called you down for breakfast. Are you…al…right…” What was supposed to be a question had trailed off.

Sasame's pink hue went red. He quickly sat up and placed the pillow over his lap. “Yes, I'm fine mother. Close the door,” he said in a bit of a shaky tone. Ayanami didn't speak. She just smiled and closed the door. Sasame slapped himself again. This couldn't get any worse…

When Sasame came down for breakfast, Kei, Hayate, and Goh glanced at him. “Sorry Sasame. I would have waken you up, but it looked like you were having such a good dream. I didn't want to disturb you.”

Sasame fiddled with the shirt he threw on before coming down. Then he turned and glared at his cousin. “Thanks…”

Hayate began laughing before stuffing his face with more food. “Don't tease him Goh,” Ayanami warned.

“Yes Aunt Ami,” Goh said with a smirk giving away his dishonesty. “I won't erect the subject anymore.”

“Goh stop it,” Hayate scowled. “It's hard enough for him as it is. He doesn't need your jokes too.”

“Goh, Hayate, I said stop it. Besides, it's perfectly natural for men of Sasame's age to have…those kinds of dreams.”

“Mom,” Sasame said uneasily. He didn't want to have this discussion with his mother…in front of the entire family at the breakfast table.

“O, so my little Sasame's a man now? And when did this happen?” One of his aunts commented. Mannen's mother was a real…witty, person. Which is where Mannen got his smart mouth.

“So who was it about?” Kei's mother asked bluntly.

“That girl next door I bet,” Goh teased.

Sasame just sat there, his mouth refusing to open. If my face gets any redder, I'll explode.

“The nice young lady with the pink hair? Oh she's so innocent. Sasame shouldn't think such things of her. But they are both so kind. She is good for him, yes?” Shin's mother smiled at Sasame from across the table.

“Leave the boy alone,” Shin's dad waved.

“Not Himeno, Kagura,” Goh corrected. It suddenly grew silent.

“Oh,” Shin's mother pipped. “She's very…unique.”

“Respectful,” Kei's mother mentioned.

“Ah, she's a very nice young lady. I seem her all the time and she does nothing but help me. Carry this, find that. And she's very protective of her sister. That why she's so childish. She's a kind person, she just doesn't show it to everyone.”

“We should invite the Sanma's over for dinner tonight. Formal. They must be lonely, only three for dinner every night.”

Ayanami passed her sister the salt while scowling her husband. “I have three for dinner every night, as do you all.”

“And without these holidays we would all be lonely,” he reasoned. “Sanma's family and her new his just the same. We go out to dinner tonight, on me.”

“Wow, the tightwad's actually paying huh? Mannen's mother smirked. “I'm coming.”

“Sasame, go next door and tell Sara,” his mother shooed.

“Why me! Can't you just call her?”

“Fine, I won't make you go but don't you raise your voice at me,” his mother scowled. She removed a few light gold locks from her face before picking up with her meal again.

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Kagura scratched her stomach on the way down the stairs after having over slept, or in her opinion, actually had a good night's sleep. Yet Kagura always looks tired. He breakfast was waiting for her inside the microwave. Kept there out of the open. It was obvious Sanma and Himeno had already eaten. The dishes were washed and the kitchen was clean. The window over the sink was even left open for fresh, rather a bit cold air to come through. That and to let out the smoke from Sanma's cooking. Kagura sat at the table and ate alone. It didn't really bother her. It was actually nice having some quiet time. She shifted through burned pieces of food for something actually edible. After she was finished, Kagura dumped the rest in the trash and washed her plate. “Another boring Saturday…aye,” she muttered while seating herself at the empty table once more. Her head lied against the wooden tabled, spanned around her face and on the surface. She seemed to be about to fall asleep when Sanma walked in.

“Ah, T-there you are. How was b-breakfast?”

“The same,” Kagura muttered.

“O-oh I'll-“

“I didn't mean it as a insult Sanma,” Kagura eased. Yet her voice stuck in it's usual neutral tone.

“You'll be glad to know that the Ayanami's have invited us to a formal dinner tonight. You and Himeno as well,” the woman smiled. She was speaking to Kagura and shuffling around in the fridge at the same time.

“Repeat that.” Kagura raised her head from the table.

“T-that we're going to t-the Ayanami's tonight?”

“No, say it how you said it before,” Kagura persisted.

“I-I don't know what y-you're talking about,” Sanma replied a little nervously. She was so easily nerved when put on the spot with questions. Too shy.

“You didn't stutter the first time you said it.”

“…stutter?”

“Yeah…you know…how you do every sentence when you speak…” Sanma still gave Kagura a look of confusion. “You can't possibly be serious…”

“I honestly d-don't know-“

“It's alright Sanma. Forget it. Besides, that's not the problem. I can't go to the Ayanami's tonight.”

“Hmm? W-Why not?”

“I…don't own anything…formal. I just don't do things like that.”

“You could borrow something of Himeno's couldn't you?”

Kagura shuddered at the thought. Powdered pink from head to toe. “Himeno's a little too short.” That was the best excuse Kagura could come up with seeing as how she was the taller of the two twins.

“We could go out and buy you something!” Himeno cheered, practically freezing Kagura's blood in her veins.

“Where the fu---…When did you get in here?” Kagura corrected before she had cursed in front of Sanma.

“I was standing right here, duh! We're gonna buy you something preeeeeeetty!”

“Himeno-“

“I can see it now. Nothing too expensive though, I don't have that much money left.”

“Himeno-“

“But it's worth it to see my Onee-chan in a dress!”

“Himeno!” Kagura shouted at her babbling sister. When she how her raised voice had startled her, she regretted it a little. Then sighed. “Sure…whatever…I don't want to disrespect the family by not showing up.”

“Great-“

“But no pink.” Himeno groaned in protest but when she saw Kagura wouldn't budge on the subject, she became happy that at least Kagura had decided to go. “I'm going to go take a shower. I'll be down in a sec.” She started up the stairs when Sanma placed a hand on her shoulder.

“Don't worry,” Sanma whispered. “We won't get anything you don't want to.”

Kagura gave Sanma a half smile. There she goes not stuttering again. Now if only she could stay like that.

llllllllll(There won't be much, close to any detail on the dinner okay? Ah, don't be disappointed. It's just a time drainer right now.)lllllllllllllllll

Kagura kicked off Himeno's shoes at the front door and walked up to her room. Immediately after, collapsing on her bed. God my feet hurt! She rolled over onto her back and squeezed her feet. I'm never doing that again, no matter ho disrespectful not showing up is. That family's fucking crazy. I mean the kids are alright but just wait until they grow up and realize it. Then again I guess loud and active is normal for them. She picked at the cloth surrounding her neck. The dress was nothing special. Black, covered her chest from the neck down, and sleeveless. Because of this she wore those black bands around her arms again to cover the tattoos. Relax Kagura. It's just a headache from all of their insanely loud shouting for conversation, you'll get over it. She removed the clip from her hair and shook the crimson mess around, hoping it would help relieve the thumping in her brain. While they were eating, everyone was so involved in conversation. They even managed to suck Himeno into it and she didn't seek to ruin her fun. But somehow Kagura got the feeling that she looked more like someone who showed up for a party, looking for a funeral. Each time they directed a question toward her to try and lure her into their fun she just nodded, gave a yes or no answer, or simply gave the shortest answer possible. It was respectful to answer the questions, yes, but it wasn't like she had to take any interest in them. Besides, they ask too many questions. And Hime goes yammering at the mouth. Telling them everything they want to hear and more. She rolled over on her stomach again after all the pain in her feet had gone. She considered dozing off right then and there if it weren't for the subtle knock at her door. “It's open,” she groaned lazily. “When are you actually going to decide to sleep in your own room. I can't baby you forever.” There was no response. “Himeno? I'm talking to you.” She sat up on her bed to see Himeno's figure there. And it scared her. Himeno, blood splattered and beaten. The figure behind her threw Himeno to the floor of Kagura's room. And the frightened red head's heart nearly jumped out of her body as it approached, closing the door behind it.

“Ah, if it isn't my beautiful rose. Oh and I see you knew I was coming, getting all dressed up for me. How sweet.”

Kagura nearly flew from her bed. The dark room was barely lit by the moon outside. The sound of Himeno's subtle snoring brought her back to reality. Just a dream…Kagura wiped the sweat from her forehead and lied back down. Though the image of his face came back to sight every time she closed her eyes. Dark blue hair that hung over his almost angelic hazel eyes. Angelic if you didn't know him. Deceiving if you did. All his feature made for a handsome face, and they also made for the face of the head leader to the Tokian Saints.

lllllllllllllllllllllll

Sunday had passed by rather uneventfully. It was like the replacement for the boring Saturday that didn't turn out so boring after all. Now they were on their way to class again. “You guys what!” Yayoi asked astonished. “Their family must be so cool!”

“Not for the whole world to hear blondie.”

“Sorry bout that Kagura.”

“It was so fun. They're such a close family. And really lively-“

“You mean loud.”

“Don't be mean.”

“I'm not. Just stating facts.”

“Oh, Yayoi. They have the cutest little cousin. So adorable. He much rather play with Kagura than me though. Didn't I tell ya? Kagura's going to be a great mommy---“

Himeno felt a sudden fist grinding into the top of her head. “Shut it Hime,” Kagura glared. They head into class after five more minutes and sat through lecture after lecture, bell then lecture, bell then lecture. That entire school day dragged on like an endless warp of blah blah blah's and pay attentions. After school, Sasame and some chick with green hair were supposed to stay after and begin decorations, given their funding, for the Fall Halloween Festival. Himeno and Hayate had kendo practice that that day also. Given that her sister was still here Kagura decided to stay as well. And Yayoi, who had grown so accustomed to the company on the bus ride, didn't want to go home alone. So she phoned her mother to tell her she would be staying after with some friends. After word, the rose and sunflower wandered around aimlessly, hoping to find something to keep them busy. “You brought another one of those stupid books to school?”

“They're not stupid! They're full of romance and drama. Even mystery at times.”

“What's so mysterious about a happy ending every time?”

“Nn? But this one doesn't have such a happy ending. It's still so beautiful though!”

Kagura felt it against her judgment to ask what it was about, assuming she'd babble on about love-sick characters she cared nothing about. Yet, they had nothing better to do. She might as well kill…eh…how long did Yayoi's romantic babbling last? An hour? “Eh…so…what's it about?”

“Wow, you never asked before. It's about these seven gorgeous knights and their pretears' struggle to save the world from the evil Princess of Disaster. During this grave fight each knight slowly finds themselves falling for one of the pretear princesses. But the Princess of Disaster is already in love with the Knight of Wind. Yet he won't return her feelings, causing her to spiral into a world of hatred and insanity. She finds out about the knight's love for the new pretear princess and attempts to curse her with a power heavy enough to crush her soul, or turn her to the darkness as a Princess of Disaster. But instead, when the curse is shot, the Knight of Sound's Princess jumps in the way and bares the curse onto herself. Instead of dying, she turns into a Princess of Disaster. During this time she kills the original Princess of Disaster and continues with draining the world of its leafe. The Knight of Sound can't find it in himself to fight against his lover-“

“Lover? What the hell are you reading?”

Yayoi blushed a bit and laughed it off before she continued. “So he betrays the knights and fights as a minion of darkness on the side of his love. Though secretly, he only wishes to bring back her sanity. And-…”

“And?” Kagura asked impatiently.

“I'm not ruining the ending for you,” she said holding the book out to Kagura. “I want you to have it.”

“Believe me when I say I don't want it.”

“But you'll like it,” Yayoi persisted.

Kagura sighed. She held her hand out and shoved the book in her bag. “I'll look it over, alright?”

“Yeah! Su-…re…” Yayoi stopped talking as her eyes fixed on something. Kagura noticed when she stopped walking looked from her, to where her eyes fell. Three Tokian Saints hanging around just outside the school gate. By this time the two had already wandered off school grounds. They must have been staring at the two or else Yayoi wouldn't have stopped moving. “What are they doing around here?”

Kagura shrugged it off. “Don't pay them any attention. I don't want them to have a reason to come over here,” Kagura smiled. It was more like one of those it's alright smiles she used with Himeno when she became nervous. After Kagura got to know Yayoi, she subconsciously felt the need to watch over her just as she would her sister. After all, the two weren't so different. Kagura waited for Yayoi to pass and she walked about a step behind her, keeping watch on the three across the street from the corner of her eye. Sure enough, they made their way in the two's direction. “Start walking back toward the school Yayoi.” Yayoi looked back a bit nervously and saw them coming. “Now, Yayoi,” Kagura demanded with a less friendly look. Yayoi turned around and walked faster while Kagura stopped moving and watched her walk off. When Kagura stopped, the three behind her stopped. “What do you want? All I have is five bucks. You low rates gonna rob me for that?”

“Who are you calling low rate you bitch!” the female shouted. The two guys at her side calmed her down. “Ugh, whatever, just do whatever you want with her. There's an alley over there. And hurry up.”

“Aye. So your not low rate robbers. Your low rate rapists.”

“Slit her fucking throat when your done.”

llllllllllllllllllll

Himeno and Hayate had finished in kendo practice and headed toward the gym to see how it was turning out. “We shouldn't bother them.”

“But I really want to see it.”

Damn…maybe Kagura was right. Hayate shook the thought from his head and continued annoyed to the gym. “Hey.”

“Hello Hayate, Himeno. This is Mawata. She's helping decorate for the festival,” Sasame greeted. The green haired woman gave them a nod before packing her things and leaving.

“Those plans you drew out really look great, Himeno smiled.

“Yeah? Heh, Mawata did most of it. I was just here to say what couldn't be done, what could, and what the budget was.”

“That's important too. We don't want anything collapsing on the guests eh.” Himeno laughed briefly before the three were interrupted by Yayoi bursting into the gym. “Hey Yayoi! Where's Kagura?”

Yayoi could barely breathe. “Kagura…she….outside…gate.”

“What'd she do know?” Himeno ran toward the outside gate with Sasame and Hayate following behind. There they witnessed Kagura snapping some punk's neck, causing him to collapse onto the floor. Three other bodies lying beside them. “Kagura, why'd you---“

“Don't have a heart attack.” Kagura stood and made her way to the inside of the gate. “They're not dead. Just unconscious.” Himeno still gave her that of an angry look. Kagura just ignored the surly girl and turned toward the two boys. “Where's Yayoi?”

“Uh-“

“I'm…over…here,” Yayoi panted. Running from the gate, to the empty kendo practice area, to the gym, and back to the gate was tiring. Maybe I should consider long distance running for the track team.

“Let's go.” Yayoi followed behind Kagura but the two stopped walking when they noticed Himeno still standing there, staring holes into the back of Kagura's head.

“H-Himeno?”

“Don't pay her any attention. C'mon,” Kagura said before walking off.

Hayate and Sasame just stood there. What just happened? Seemed to be both their thoughts.

lllllllllllllllllllll

Sasame took a shower and dressed for bed, stepping over Goh to get to bed. That is, before he heard shouting coming from next door. He walked over near the window and sat down. Immediately taking interest in the sound of Kagura raising her voice. “I didn't do anything wrong so what's your fucking problem!”

Sanma must be working late. Sasame assumed this since her car was gone and Kagura didn't curse in the presence of adults.

“You're my problem!” Himeno shouted back. “I can't keep my eyes off you for one second without you going and doing something stupid. If I wouldn't have showed up you would of-…” Himeno grinded her teeth together as if refusing to speak again.

Kagura, who was seated at her desk glared at her from the corner of her eye. “So you're psychic now? I would have what? Go ahead and say it.” Himeno kept quiet under the intimidating glare she received. “If you have nothing else to say then go to bed.”

Himeno walked over with her head down, as if she were ashamed of her actions and what she had just said. She curled up on one side of Kagura's bed with her back turned to her. “Sorry,” she muttered. “I shouldn't have-“

“You don't have to apologize. I'm not angry,” Kagura replied in a more pleasant voice. She turned out the light and climbed into bed. “But you really got to start sleeping in your own room.”

“I don't wanna,” Himeno complained. “Yours is better.”

Sasame went back to his own bed after their bedroom light was turned off. They had to have meant earlier. But what was Himeno trying to say that made Kagura look at her like that? Then Kagura just spoke down to her like she was just a child. Then they're joking around after just five minutes. Women…

lllllllllllllllllllllllllll

The days were counting down to the festival. And with it being only a day away, Himeno thought about now being a time to think up a costume. Since she had completely forgot with her and Hayate's duty of choosing food. Though it was mostly her. Hayate couldn't care less and left her with the grunt of the work. “C'mon. Please! I wanna be a princess Kagura.”

“Then go ahead,” Kagura shrugged.

“I want you to be one with me,” Himeno whined. “There'd be no point if it were only me.”

“Not gonna happen.”

“Pleeeeeeeeease!”

“Not…gonna…happen.”

“Don't be so sour. You should try new things.”

“Don't feed me that bull.”

“But Yayoi's going to be a Princess.” Yayoi was a little caught off guard by the mention of her name since she had been so into the argument going on between the two. Instead, she stepped back a little from being startled and that common creak in their wooden porch gave it away.

“I'm dressing up as one of the pretear princesses from the story Leafenia Love. You know Kagura.”

“I know what?”

“The book Kagura. The one I gave you. Did you read it?”

Kagura became momentarily nervous. I totally forgot about that damn book. “O yeah. That. Yeah, I got around to a few pages. I'm just real busy. You know.”

“I never saw any book,” Himeno asked clueless. Like a small child wanting to be included on something she knew nothing about.

“I believe you were talking about your costume,” Kagura sighed, trying to distract the girl.

“Right!”

Short attention span.

“I'm dressing as the pretear princess who loved the Knight of Fire.”

“Why that one?” Himeno asked, full of curiosity.

“Because the Knight of Fire was always my favorite. And if you think about it, when the book describes her, it sounds a lot like me,” Yayoi smiled. “Just think. What if I really am the pretear princess!”

“So you girls are familiar with the story eh?”

All three on the porch jumped where they stood to see Ayanami had snuck up behind them and had probably listened in on most of the conversation. The three sat down and smiled at the woman. “Yes, it's one of my favorites.”

“I'm not.”

“I'll get to it…eventually.”

“Then I would like to see you three. Come, come.” Ayanami made her way down the stairs and down the side walk toward her house while the girls stared, confused. Sanma just stared from the doorway with a small smile on her face, shaking her head slightly as if she knew something they did not. “Come I say,” Ayanami waved from her porch. She waited there, tapping her feet while they approached hesitantly.

What is this crazy woman going to do now?

OOOOo, surprise!

Oh my.

The three walked into the woman's home and up the stairs while at the same time getting surprised stares from the boys in the living room. Except Shin and Hajime who came trotting along behind them. They seemed dis-shelved and messy. A bit embarrassing having guests when you look such a way. “They are adorable,” Yayoi smiled. Shin smiled back and grabbed onto Kagura's hand once they got up the stairs while Hajime held onto her other sleeve. Oy. Himeno wasn't lyin'. A set of sturdy stairs were pulled down from the ceiling, leading them up to the large attic overhead. Up the stairs they walked, where they watched Ayanami dig into a box. At this same time, she spoke to them.

“Do you know that story has been in my family for generations? Eh?”

“Really? I thought some guy made it up.”

“Kei's mother sold the general outline to an author and they wrote a story around it. We didn't want to be credited though. Our family isn't much for publicity.”

“Aye. So why are we up here?” Kagura asked impatiently.

Ayanami signaled for her to wait a moment until out popped a beautiful dress, a little dusty and old looking but still beautiful. Kagura stared at it for a while. Himeno and Yayoi just smiled. “O my gosh! It's gorgeous!”

“It's…different.” Kagura tried to act as if it were nothing special but take notice to her expression when it was first pulled out and you'd see otherwise.

“I'm glad you like it. This also was in my family for generations. Seven of them. The dresses said to have belonged to the pretear princesses themselves. It'll take some cleaning and a little ironing but it's perfect.”

“Perfect for what?” Himeno asked. Kagura saw what was coming next but was too late to tone down Ayanami's enthusiasm.

“You silly. And your sister. And you friend. What is your name hun?”

“Y-Yayoi Takato-“

“Right right. Such a pretty name. It's perfect for the festival. After all, you wanted to be a princess right?”

“Eh, I guess.”

“You guess?” Ayanami scowled.

“I mean, yes Ayanami-sama.”

“Now that's what I want to hear,” She smiled. The woman handed Himeno the dress. It was white and blue. See through blue fabric wrapped loosely around the shoulders and an even lighter fabric hung off that area in four strands. Trimmed in dark blue with gold like coins at the corners. The top was white and the skirt blue. Ayanami went digging back into the box for a pair of blue boots with small wings at the ankles, white gloves, and a gold tiara. “Shin, Hajime, downstairs,” the lady shooed. They looked disappointed as they climbed back down the attic stairway. She closed the stair door behind them and began pulling up Himeno's shirt. This in turn made Himeno's face go a little pink.

“W-Wha-“

“Change into that. I want to see if it fits. Hurry,” she ordered, while digging into another box. The next one she pulled out was the outfit belonging to the knight of fire. White, mostly silver looking dress, red cape, and red portion around the bosom. It was long sleeved and red gloved. A yellow flap folding over her mid section designed in red. And a gold tiara not too different from the first.

“The one I was going to wear didn't look as good as this,” Yayoi smiled in thanks.

Then it was Kagura's turn. “If you heard the conversation then I'm pretty sure you heard me say I wasn't dressing up. Mainly because I'm not going.”

“Oh, you're going. And you and my son are going to have a good time whether you like it or not.”

It became quiet after the giggles died out. “Your…son?”

“Hmm? Yes. I didn't say?”

“No,” Kagura said sternly.

“Every year the children dress as the knights from the family story. It's tradition. And now that I have three perfect princesses right here with me.”

“…I'll have to decline thank you.”

Ayanami pinched Kagura's cheeks rather hard. “You won't say no to me sewwty. Would you.” Kagura restrained herself from her natural reflex, violence, but at the same time, wanted her to stop.

“Alright. Let go,” she winced.

“You girls will love it. Now put this on.”

“Who do I have to go with?” Himeno asked.

“My handsome some Hayate of course. Who else?”

Himeno's face went red. “Oh,” was all she managed to pipe out. Yayoi smiled at Himeno. Obviously holding back one of her romantic rants.

“And your sister will be going with my handsome son. Sasame.”

The two girls looked over at Kagura, who's face had suddenly become neutral. Himeno knew. She was just hiding an emotion she didn't want seen. How cute. She's embarrassed.

“Um,” Yayoi spoke up. The shy little pip caught the ears of the old woman and she turned tward the young blonde.

“My handsome nephew Goh. Don't be shy. He's such a gentleman. You'll have fun.” She smiled again to relieve the doubt seen in the girl's expression. “Now if only there were more girls that matched story description that lived nearby. You know history is destined to repeat itself.”

“You expect us to believe that this actually happened. People…flying…and shooting lazers and elements out of their as---…bottoms.”

“Believe what you want. You'll see,” she said with a slight gleam in her eyes.

“…You're freaking me out now.”

The girls were given bags to hide the clothes. Apparently the sneaky woman didn't want the boys down stairs to know what she was up to. Once they headed downstairs, they got even stranger looks. What's in the bag?

Kagura noticed they had quickly cleaned up by the time they got back down stairs. “Hey, Hayate,” Kagura smiled. The other two girls were giggling as well. Hayate acted as if he hadn't noticed they were there and looked over.

“Yes?” he grunted.

“You got a little something stuck to the side of your face,” she pointed. Apparently they rushed when cleaning up. The girls laughed as they walked out.

Evil wench.

lllllllllllllllllllllll

The three rushed passed Sanma after they came home from school. Yayoi phoned her parents and told them she'd be changing at her friend's house. Then catching a ride with their mother. No one really noticed the odd expression on Kagura's face when she said `catching a ride with their mother' but tit would have been hard to since it was so quickly covered with a small smile in Yayoi's direction. They changed, into cleaned and ironed costumes. Only what they didn't know was that they were being given a ride by the other family. They were packed into Shin's mother's van and the remaining rode while Sasame drove. Though the four hadn't seen the girls get into the car with Shin, Hajime, and Mannen, but overheard a commotion coming from the car. “Oy. I wonder what Shin was so loud about.” Goh glanced back at the van as they pulled off.

“He's a kid. He'll get excited over anything. I just hope you people don't draw as big a crowd as last year-“

“And every other year we go. How annoying it is,” Kei sighed. While in the van…

“I like you. You're pretty,” Shin stated bluntly. Though it's highly unlikely that children feel bashful.

Kagura's eyes widened momentarily, but she smiled at the child. “You don't look to bad yourself. Hey, how about I ditch your cousin and go to the festival with you eh? Wouldn't that be fun?”

“Yeah. But Auntie Ami wouldn't like it,” he replied.

“What she doesn't know won't hurt her,” Kagura persisted.

Shin's mother laughed a little. “Are you nervous? I assure you my nephew is a perfect gentleman-“

“I'm not nervous. I'm irritated. She could have at least told him so he doesn't look all surprised and stupid when I get out of the car.”

“Kagura,” Himeno warned.

Kagura growled lowly before fidgeting with the light purple fabric extending from her white glove. Why does this dress have to be so damn big? I want to switch. Eugh, not with Yayoi though. What's with the cape?

“We're here,” Shin's mother sang. “Everyone out.” The van slowly pulled to a stop and they got out of the car.

“When you're done being bored with Hayate, come hang with me. Kay?” Mannen smirked. Though he was quickly grabbed by his mother. She and the other parents had arrived a bit earlier than them.

“Don't be so quick to grow up Ice Knight.”

“Mooom,” Mannen complained, a bit embarrassed. Himeno just stood there, still a bit dazed.

“What the hell,” came a rigid voice that froze all three.

Kagura turned around with a crooked grin. “Is that a nice way to say hello, baka?”

Kei stared at them a while. “Ami made you-“

“Why the hell else?”

Ayanami popped up behind the three girls as she had grown into habit of doing. She nearly scared Kagura who was cautious in thinking she heard her last statement. “Ah, lovely. Lovely. Off you go now.” She nudged Himeno's flushed face toward Hayate.

Hayate looked down at her momentarily. Seeing that outfit made him frown and blush at the same time. So that's what she's been sneaking around about. He turned Himeno around and nudged her back toward Ayanami. “No.”

“I'm telling you yes,” Ayanami scowled. She turned Himeno around and nudged her back toward him. Himeno's face began turning a deeper red than before, contrasting with the blue which made her look even more red then she actually was.

“What's wrong?” Hayate almost jumped at Kagura's voice coming from behind him. Her firm hand holding onto his shoulder. “My sister isn't good enough for you? Eh?” He could feel her blazing eyes glaring at him. Possibly through him. “I asked you a question.”

Hayate shrugged her hand off. “Whatever. Hurry up before I change my mind.” He began walking away while Himeno struggled to catch up. Kagura watched them walk off with that natural scowl on her face until it was wiped away with surprise when Sasame wrapped an arm around her shoulders. “I hear I'm escorting you tonight,” Sasame smiled. “And getting all dressed up for me. How sweet.”

“…getting all dressed up for me. How sweet.” Dark blue hair hung over angelic hazel eyes. Though the grin on his face was frightening.

Sasame felt her flinch under his arm. “What's wrong?”

“Get your arm off me-“

“Smile!” Ayanami shouted. There was bright flash as they turned their heads towards the woman. Kagura didn't look much surprised. More like curious as to why the woman shouted.

“Let's go before she takes another one,” Sasame muttered. For once she agreed. So while the woman attacked Yayoi and Goh with photos, they scurried away. The decorations outside the school were amazing. Strings hanging lanterns everywhere. Outside was where most people were. Below were many in costumes, parading around from stand to stand getting food and playing games. Kagura noticed Sasame stop at a stand and she looked over from where she was. “You hungry?” he asked her, smiling as he did.

She stared at him a while, then walked over to see what it was. “…What's that?”

Sasame looked almost disbelieving at her for a moment. “You can't be serious. You've never had fried calamari?”

“…no. I didn't know I was supposed to.” Kagura leaned over the table more and looked at it. It didn't smell disgusting. Sasame smiled at her curiosity and ordered two servings. “No, I don't want-“

“Just take it,” Sasame persisted. He paid the man and handed Kagura a small bag. She looked inside.

“It's greasy. Do you really want me dead that badly?”

“Eat it already. Or do you want to argue that badly?” Kagura glared at him for a while, then ate one. “You like it?”

“It's alright.” Kagura glared at him from the corner of her eyes. Who the hell can be so happy all the time?…