Weiss Kreuz Fan Fiction ❯ The Lives We Lead ❯ Mission gone wrong ( Chapter 3 )

Chapter 3 Weiß

 

Arashi woke up blinked her eyes; she was exactly where she fell asleep. She looked around herself and found that she was alone in the room now. She got up and started walking around the house.

She made her way up the stairs and made her way to the hallway of rooms. She opened up Aya's room and whispered, “Aya?” he wasn't in there.

Down the hall way she heard something fall, followed by angry cursing. Arashi stared at the door quizzically then opened it.

Inside there was a blank room with the entire floor covered in plastic and paint buckets. Ken was trying to paint the windowpane but kept cursing because he kept getting the window.

Youji looked like the typical Mexican painter, light blue jeans, rag hanging out the back, headphones playing and topless… then again they were all topless.

Even Aya, who was meticulously painting the ceiling. Omi walked over and scooped up more paint then went back to the wall only to slip on the temporary plastic flooring and fall down, knocking the paint bucket over him.

He did look like a wide-eyed and surprised kitten with a bucket of paint dumped over him.

~*~

Schuldig stretched and felt his back pop; he opened his eyes and realized that he was on the ground. He stood up and stared at himself in the mirror for a while then did some sit-ups.

Finally he walked to the bathroom, putting his bandana on in the mean time. Bradley opened the bathroom door and was about to come out when he slammed the door and yelled, “Clothes Schuldig! Damn it! Put some damn clothes on before coming out here!”

Schuldig yawned and leaned on the door, “I can stay here longer than you.”

Brad leaned against the wall; “Stubborn ass. I have 12 of your foul German magazines in here to amuse myself with. What have you got?”

Schuldig turned around, “A full bladder. I'm going to piss on the door now.” He informed.

Nagi screamed, “You will not! I'm going to be the one that has to clean it up ahou!”

Schuldig turned and started slumping down the hall. Bradley came out of the bathroom, “Just take a piss out the window like you always do.”

Yes, life in an apartment could be tough at times, especially for the 4 men that demanded their `personal' space.

He got back to his room after pissing on just about every citizen unfortunate enough to walk under that window. He looked at the bed and remembered that Chikaru had slept there.

He threw on some black pants and made his way out into the kitchen. Farfarello was sitting at the table next to Nagi and Farfarello was… chewing… gum?

Schuldig looked up at the form of the young girl who now had white/blonde braided hair half way down her back. Schuldig cocked his head, “Chikaru?”

She turned around, in her hands were around the handle of a pan with French toast in it, she began, “I thought you all need a good meal every morning. No more of that rotten banana, or beer.”

Schuldig stared at Farfarello. Bradley came in, “Is he chewing gum?”

Chikaru nodded, “I decided he needed a new hobby.” She slid off the plump piece of cinnamon toast with syrup and French toasting onto Nagi's plate.

Schuldig instantly complained, “Why does he get the food first?”

Nagi glared up at him, “It's because I have to go to school soon, idiot.”

Schuldig sat down, “ Watch it Chibi. I have a schedule to maintain too.”

Nagi rolled his eyes, “Like what? You already took a piss, and the clubs don't open for another 12 hours.”

Chikaru called over her shoulder, “Do you know what Farfarello likes to eat?”

Brad answered, “He doesn't like to eat. He starves himself because he's trying to see if he can feel the pain. He hypothesizes the pain will hurt God.”

Chikaru paused for a moment then said, “I just think he's a picky eater. I need to find the perfect thing that he will eat.”

Schuldig planted one foot on the table and said, “This is how we make him eat.” He grabbed Farfarello and flipped him over so he was on his back on the table. He grabbed half a croissant and stuffed it in his mouth then held it shut with his mouth covered.

Chikaru put her hands over her mouth, “What if he's allergic to that? Or what if his gums are sore?”

Schuldig stared at her with a look like, `You actually care?' Farfarello punched him hard in the gut. Schuldig put his arms around his stomach and started spewing German curses. Farfarello stood up and coughed a little then swallowed the croissant.

Nagi looked at his watch and said, “I think I'll be leaving now.”

~*~

Arashi looked around at the room; now that the guys knew she was there they had stopped painting and turned to face her. Arashi walked in and asked, “What's going on in here?”

Ken replied, “It's an extra room we had, and it was all filled with shit. So, we're cleaning it out, repainting it, and it can be your bed room.”

Arashi looked around the room, “That seems pretty… cool.” Suddenly the phone rang. “I have my own phone?”

Aya picked up the phone, “No, it's the shop phone, we just brought it up here for now since it's cordless.” He answered the phone, “Moshi moshi.”

Omi ran into the other room to pick up the other phone and listen in. He came back and whispered, horrified, “It's Manx… she says… Malvagità is back.”

Aya hung up the phone, “Everyone, get ready. Omi, get on the computer and find her location immediately.”

~*~

Schuldig looked over at Chikaru who was in the passenger seat of his car. Trying to make conversation, and take her mind off the `Mr. Toad's Wild Ride' he started, “You know, if you are going to be a permanent member of Schwarz, you should have a code name.”

Chikaru looked at him quizzically, “Code name?”

Schuldig grinned, “Yeah. We all have code names for when we go on a mission. That way if police scan the videos, they won't be able to track us so easily.”

Chikaru thought about it, then replied, “Well tell me yours, and everyone else's.”

Schuldig swerved around a car and almost ran an 18-wheeler off the road, “Bradley's is Prophet, sometimes its Oracle. Nagi is Prodigy. Farfarello is Berserker. And I am Mastermind. Fitting don't you think?”

Chikaru cocked her head, “Fitting? I don't think I understand the relevance.”

Schuldig went off a construction ramp and landed 10 feet further before screeching to a sudden halt. “You don't know?”

Chikaru stared at him then shook her head meekly, her cerulean eyes looking big and innocent with the white hat and long white scarf accessories.

Schuldig did a u-turn and started driving in the opposite direction of the traffic, “Well, Farfarello is crazy, so we gave him the name Berserker, as in bear serk. Bradley can see the immediate future so we named him Prophet, it sounds cool I guess. Nagi is a kid, and he's special. You know, telekinetic, so we named him Prodigy. And I am Master mind because,” he slowed the car at a red light and took the time to look over at Chikaru and grin, “I can read your mind.”

Chikaru beamed, “That is incredible! You all have powers! So what is my code name?”

Schuldig stared at her for a moment, “What applies to you?”

Chikaru thought about it then decided, “Fox! My code name will be Fox.”

Schuldig stared quizzically at her then tried it while speeding up again, “Fox… why? What does that have to do with any powers? (If you have any.)”

“Because Fox in Japanese is Kitsune. Kitsunes are known to be sly, mischievous, deceptive and shape shifters.”

Schuldig spun around, “Nagi! What the hell are you doing here?”

Nagi crossed his arms, “You passed my school about 30 minutes ago and forgot to stop.”

Brad vocalized his thoughts (He missed his stop too.), “Fox… shape shifter, why that of all things?”

Farfarello blinked and looked at him with his gold eye, “If you haven't noticed, her hair style, color length, texture and eye color change from day to day. I think that qualifies for shape shifting, deception, or a very good costume artist.”

Bradley looked down at his lap then exclaimed, “Shit! I forgot my brief case; we have to go back to the house. Schuldig! Step on it!”

Schuldig grinned and changed gears; “Don't have to tell me twice.”

About 10 minutes of hell later, they were all coming through the door of the apartment. Chikaru turned, “I need to go fix my hair.”

Brad nodded and waved her on and she bowed then disappeared down the hall. Schuldig chuckled, “That really is amusing, she is so obedient…”

Brad ignored him and went to find his brief case, cursing, “I'm already late, I might as well not go.” He was about to yell at Schuldig for sitting on the nice furniture when there was a firm knock on the door.

Brad cursed under his breath and went to open the door. Before him stood a figure in black suite pants, a black overcoat, a charcoal gray scarf and a dark suede hat. She stepped inside the apartment, pushing him out of the way.

Schuldig jumped to his feet, “Who are you?”

Crawford was about to pull out his gun when the figure replied, “I am Malvagità.” She removed the scarf and hat, revealing a dark mass of curly and unruly hair that fell down a little past her shoulders and hid one eye.

Crawford moved in front of her, “You fled the country. Why are you here?”

Malvagità replied smoothly, “I forgot something.” She scanned the room then yelled out, “Chikaru! Come!”

Chikaru emerged from the hall and stood completely straight with on hand to her brow. Her eyes were cast down just as any dutiful pet would have it. Schuldig took the time to realize that she actually was fairly tall… not as tall as him, but a little taller than Malvagità.

She looked her up and down then said, “At ease.” Chikaru put her hand down and bowed. Mal (nick-name) turned, positioning the hat back on her head, “Come, we have places to go.”

Chikaru nodded and put on her hat and scarf (She never goes out without a hat and scarf.) Brad stepped in front of her, “Hold on. You can't take her with you.”

Mal turned to glare at him, “Excuse me?”

Crawford nodded, “She is property of Schwarz and under Takatori Reiji's control. You can't have her.”

Mal glared then stated, “Chikaru, come.”

She made a movement to comply when Schuldig vocalized, “Stay.”

Mal seemed to become enraged, “I am your master! Now come!”

Crawford yelled, “We own you now! Stay!”

Chikaru was staring at all of them completely confused; she had no idea what to do. She looked at Schuldig, then at Malvagità, then at Crawford, hoping for some one to help her decide.

Malvagità grinned and chuckled, “Schwarz, amateurs, you don't even now how to use such a perfect weapon. Chikaru come! You still wear my collar, you still belong to me.”

Chikaru grinned at the infallible truth and moved to Malvagità's side. Farfarello pulled her back. Brad pulled his gun, “You will turn and leave these premises immediately with out her. Or I will kill you, she is an asset to our team and we will not let her go.”

Malvagità had her gun drawn at the same time; they stared at each other in silence. Malvagità grinned, “You have no bullets in your gun.”

Brad cocked it, “Want to bet on that?”

Mal laughed, “Chikaru has been trained to unarm all weapons when she enters a new residence. Quite useful, neh?”

Brad smirked, “Either way, you can't take us on.”

Mal shot her gun at him. The bullet hit his leg and he suddenly dropped his gun and grabbed his leg. “You won't die, the bullet just sends electrical charges through your body. Chikaru.”

Chikaru nodded and followed her out the door. Schuldig glared at the door, “Should we follow?”

Brad gritted his teeth, “No…”

Schuldig asked, “Why didn't you do more? I know there was more of a reason than the team why you wanted her to stay.” He smirked at his thoughts.

Crawford was sitting in a chair now, “Unlike you, pervert, I was not attracted to her so much as I was attracted to the force controlling her. I know you sensed it too, Chikaru is not a mild person, I felt a connection to whom ever had tamed her.” He suddenly yelled, “Until I found out she was a cruel woman!”

~*~

That evening Malvagità enjoyed a union of lords. She sat at a great Japanese table dressed in a silk kimono. All the other lords sat at the table in slightly elevated seats and their `servants' sat to their side, a little back, on the plain mat.

Chikaru listened to the conversation and paid special attention to any abnormalities. She was sure there could be an assassination at any moment. She closed her eyes and sighed, trying to ignore the dull ache in her stomach and the delicious food set in front of the masters.

Her eyes opened and she looked up just in time to see the shine of a dart shooting from a vent. She flipped up a plate and the dart ricocheted onto the table. Malvagità's eyes narrowed, she looked to Chikaru and nodded her head.

A slim dark form suddenly came crashing through the ceiling to land on the table. It was Arashi, she revealed a scythe with a shorter handle for easier movement and grinned, “I'll have my revenge at last.”

She started towards Malvagità when Chikaru jumped onto the table and threw the dish. Arashi pulled the scythe in front of her and the dish split in two, whizzing by her, but not hitting her.

Chikaru raised her fists, ready for combat. Arashi laughed, “Don't you think you are a little under prepared for combat?” Chikaru remained still.

Aya and Youji suddenly came through the door and instantly started their work on some of the Lords and Ladies closer to them. Arashi watched Chikaru then glanced around the room, she grinned, “Where is the rest of Schwarz?”

Chikaru remained completely silent. Arashi shook her head, “This is too easy.” She charged and made a horizontal swing. Chikaru fell back onto her hands and knees, facing up; she kicked the handle trying to force it from her hands.

Arashi pulled back then tried to sweep Chikaru off the table with a brutal kick. She flipped back wards and started slowly walking back wards when she slipped on a sushi roll.

Arashi charged and dug the top spike into the table like a pole vault, when she went into the air she buckled her knees, he foot aimed directly for Chikaru's throat.

Youji joined in the fight against Chikaru. She grabbed the wire and spun it around Youji's throat; he put his wrists to his throat just in time to insure that the sudden pull would not collapse his esophagus. But now he was rendered helpless.

Chikaru manipulated him from behind, using him as a human shield. Malvagità was beginning to look around; she concluded that all the guards must be dead. She stood up and clicked her tongue, obviously frustrated.

Youji suddenly curled his back in fetal position, forcing the blonde to flip over his back into the path of the scythe.

Chikaru rolled off his back, the pressure forcing Youji to fall along with her. Chikaru found herself on her back with her hands above her head gripping the wire around Youji's wrists and neck.

She looked up and saw Arashi's scythe was sunk into the table right between her and Youji's heads. Chikaru gulped and slid down the table, pulling Youji's head into the blunt side of the scythe.

Youji growled in protest and Chikaru quickly slipped through Arashi's legs and got to her feet to aim a kick at Arashi. Her heel was aimed for the nape but Arashi dodged enough for it to hit her shoulder.

Nonetheless, the force pushed her off the table; she spun quickly and caught Chikaru with the scythe. The long curving inner edge connected with Chikaru's back, pulling her off the table. (It didn't kill her, but it still hurt.)

Ken burst through a window and ran towards Malvagità with his bug nucks ready. Aya was on her other side with his bloody katana aimed.

Chikaru started to get up when she felt Arashi was standing over her. A foot on either side of her waste, her arm and weapon extended to cradle Chikaru's throat, she became very still.

A gunshot was suddenly heard. The bullet pierced the handle and broke it in two. The end with the blade fell harmlessly to the ground. Youji jumped forward with his wire when a foot connected with his side and he was sent off in another direction.

Chikaru looked up to see Schuldig standing before her. He grabbed the nape of her neck and pulled her up as Arashi was driving her end of the handle down ward.

Malvagità registered a flash of white and saw that Brad was now fighting Aya with a kodachi. (Short swords used for defense. They are smaller, thus easier to wield, but not as good for killing.)

Farfarello was behind her facing off with Ken, preventing him from getting any closer to Malvagità. If anything the poor boy was being driven back by Farfarello's insane grin.

Nagi's eyes glowed white and the direction of a dart suddenly changed. Ken squeaked when the dart hit his goggles, the point less than a centimeter away from his eye. He pulled off the goggles and continued to fight.

A part of the ceiling suddenly dropped onto the table. When the dust cleared Omi was sitting in the middle coughing, he saw Nagi and instantly got to his feet. Omi threw a dart and Nagi forced it to slow to a complete stop then grabbed it, “Sedatives? How childish.”

The dart spun back into the air and hit Omi, he yanked it out of his arm and glared. He fell to his knees and trembled then mouthed something before collapsing.

Ken yelled out, “Bombay!” an awkward strike sent Farfarello's knife spinning into the wall and twisted his own wrist. He grabbed his wrist and winced.

Farfarello, with out even hesitating at the current loss of a weapon, punched the boy's jaw. Ken fell back but the onslaught continued, when the kid fell unconscious Schuldig yelled, “Berserker! Help the Prophet.”

Farfarello looked up and saw that Chikaru and Schuldig were struggling with the kittens. He instead charged Schuldig, knocking him onto the ground. Farfarello threw a punch at Youji, he dodged and wrapped the wire around the wrist.

Schuldig growled and went to help Brad instead.

Youji dislocated the Irish man's fingers with a distinctive crack. Farfarello didn't feel it and thus continued. Chikaru and Farfarello were now against Arashi and Youji who somehow were managing combined attacks.

Schuldig was running down the table, he suddenly jumped into the air and with one leg forward connected his foot with Aya's back. Aya fell to his knees, Schuldig looked at Brad, “Prophet, get her out of here, bring Prodigy in case any one comes after you.”

Crawford snapped, “I know the plan.” He spun around turned Malvagità around then pushed her forward. “Move it. Prodigy! Let's go.”

~*~

Aya grimaced as Omi tediously pushed more rubbing alcohol against his fresh wounds. “Where the hell did Schwarz come from anyways?”

Omi shook his head, “I don't know. They weren't supposed to be there, Malvagità has no relation with them as far as I know.”

Youji yelled, “Then how did they get there?”

Ken nodded, “And why was the blonde there alone with her? Do they know each other? Do you think she left Schwarz?”

Aya growled, “There is something going on… I don't know what but there is something more to them all.”

Arashi was biting her lip anticipating how she would say this, she finally sighed, “I know why she was there and why Schwarz was not.”

They all looked up, a little skeptical considering she knew so little about Schwarz. Arashi started, “That blonde, I know her. We both used to work for Malvagità… From what I can piece together, when Malvagità fled the country, she found Schwarz.”

Youji asked, “And she became a member of Schwarz? Then why weren't they there?”

Arashi continued, “Malvagità just came back. She came for the girl, Chikaru, and then she attended the ceremony. Chikaru was no longer a part of Schwarz, that must be why they weren't there.”

Aya asked, “Then why did they come?”

Omi tried, “Maybe the Prophet saw something and decided they should go. It was pretty impeccable timing.”

Youji grinned, “Hey, we almost killed the blonde, uh, Chikaru. And you guys almost got Malvagità. We can beat them, we just have to gang up and take one down at a time, and this'll be easy.”

Arashi shook her head, “I'm afraid it's not that easy. I know there was a reason that Malvagità came back for Chikaru. Chikaru is important to Malvagità's plans some how.”

Youji began again, “So if we can kill her…”

Arashi interrupted, “No. Chikaru has powers. I'm sure they have almost everything to do with whatever Malvagità's plans are.”

Aya tried to plan this out in his head, “So we can get an idea what we're up against, what is her power?”

Arashi hung her head, “I… don't know actually.”

Ken face planted, “You don't know? You worked with her, you were able to piece all that together but you don't know?”

Arashi yelled back, “Malvagità never liked me, whenever I came in she paused all conversations about her plan. I guess it was a good idea for her considering I'm now trying to kill her.”

Aya massaged his temples, “I'm going to bed, I'll deal with this later.”

Omi stood up, “Wait, you aren't done being bandaged.”

Aya threw a glare over his shoulder and Omi stopped dead in his tracks. Aya glared at the young boy then continued walking.

Omi stayed in that spot even after Aya left. After a few moments he let out a heavy breath and turned around. “Okay, who's next?”

Youji lifted his hand, “My arm. I can't believe this bullet wound. I think Schuldig did it on purpose.”

Omi started putting peroxide on it, “Why is that?”

Youji scowled, “Because there is no way I can go out clubbing with this. And even if I could, any girl who saw it would go running.”

Omi wagged a finger in his face, “You shouldn't do that, you could reopen the wound.” He started putting on Neosporin, then grinned, “I guess… you'll just have to settle for staying home and jacking off.”

Youji gave a fake sob, “Have you noticed? This wound runs half way down my right arm. I'm right handed, I can't do anything till this heals.”

Ken stared at him for a moment before shaking his head, “That really sucks. Well, since you have to avoid getting aroused for the next month or so, can I have all your video's, magazines, phone books, condoms, chicks, list of clubs, and your car?”

Youji pointed at him and yelled, “Hey! If I'm not getting ass, no one else is either! So screw off kid.”

Ken sighed and rested a hand in his lap, “Fortunately, I still can.”

Ken smirked at Youji. Youji grabbed the nearest stress ball and squeezed it a couple times before completely popping it in a vice grip. “Hehe, you might not be for long.”

Ken's eyes got wide, “Hey Omi, we can play doctor in the morning, I'm going to go and lock my door.” Then he took off.

~*~

Brad yelled, “You don't know where she is?”

Schuldig stepped back and chuckled trying to hide his unease, “I just don't know her location.”

Brad crossed his arms, “So, you lost her?”

Schuldig shrugged, “Temporarily misplaced her.”

Brad threw a punch at the side of his head. Schuldig's glasses broke and landed on the ground. “That was my last pair dick nose! Verdammen!”

Crawford grabbed a mass of his hair and yelled, “You have bigger things to worry about.” He slammed the man face first into the wall.

“My nose! Damn it! What the hell is wrong with you.” Schuldig yelled.

Crawford yelled, “You were supposed to be watching her.”

Schuldig slammed face first into the wall again, trying to struggle against it he yelled, “Farfarello was too! She just disappeared.”

Crawford slammed Schuldig into the wall again, this time Schuldig put his hands up and was able to fight it. He screamed inside Bradley's head, “Damn it! She just disappeared! It isn't my fault! So lay off ass wipe.” Schuldig followed his onslaught with a harsh punch into the American's temple.

Crawford rubbed his temple then glared. Schuldig punched his gut then started to run. Brad reached out and grabbed the thick locks of orange hair and yanked him back. Schuldig fell onto the ground by Crawford's feet and started to scramble away.

Crawford was about to kick the living crap out of the cocky German when Nagi came in mumbling. “Do you guys have to be so noisy? I have school tomorrow. Any ways, the phone is ringing.”

Bradley walked across the room and picked up the phone, “HELLO?”

“Hehe, I see you've already found Chikaru missing.”

“Who the hell is this?” Bradley yelled.

“This is Malvagità.”

“Mal! You bitch! Where is Chikaru?”

“She's right here with me. You separated us so I went to the air port terminal, she joined me there.”

Brad motioned to Schuldig and Nagi, “You're at the Air port? Which one and where are you headed.”

“We've already left. We're going on a little vacation of sorts. You'll be hearing from me soon enough.” *click*

~*~

Malvagità sat in the large leather chair; “I understand you assumed power over my Chikaru. Is that correct Takatori-san?”

Takatori Reiji rubbed his mustache, “You must understand my position though. I was brought a young, capable and willing person who would fight to protect me.”

Malvagità responded, “She just so happened to belong to me.”

Takatori leaned back in his own chair, “My apologies. I have a lot to offer, what do you ask for in compensation?”

Malvagità sighed and looked around the room, “Well, I haven't given it very much thought, but I suppose, I would accept joint ownership.”

Takatori scowled, the light glazed off his thick glasses, “Ownership? I'm sorry, but I work over my areas in this business on my own, and I've been lead to understand you do too.”

Malvagità chuckled, “I want to have joint ownership over Schwarz.”

Takatori bellowed, “Absolutely not! They are my private personnel and serve for my use. If you need them to protect you then by all means, its just a price.”

Malvagità sipped her wine, “I want them… I want to control them and I will have their obedience. I will pay well for their services.”

Takatori growled, “Have you ever met them? They are a bunch of ass holes. You don't want them, and I don't want you owning them.”

Malvagità threw her wine at him then spoke to Chikaru in Italain, “Potete capire questo asino?” (Can you believe this ass hole?)

Chikaru responded, “Non si preoccupi. Basterà come chiediamo quando vede i soldi.” (Don't worry. He will do as we say when he sees the money.)

Malvagità mumbled, “Benissimo. Allora vada.” (Fine. then go)

Chikaru nodded, “Sì padrone.” (Yes master.)

Chikaru got up off the ground with a brief case and approached Takatori. “The master has a great amount of money to offer. She is willing to pay seperatley for each.” She opened up the brief case, “10,000 dollars for the American. 100,000 liras for the Irish one. 25,000 zÅ‚oty for the German and 10,000,000 Â¥en for the Japanese.”

Takatori's eyes widened at the amount, “And this is just for joint ownership?”

Malvagità nodded, “I hope you realize I'll still be in complete possession of Chikaru.”

Takatori motioned for one of his servants to come and take the brief case. Malvagità sipped her new wine glass slowly, enjoying the dark red liquid. “So? Do we have a deal?”

Takatori stood up and put out a hand, “Absolutely.”

Malvagità put out her hand and poured the blood like liquid where their palms touched, “Then it is set. I'll be seeing you around later.” She flashed a grin and turned, Chikaru was waiting with a cloth for her hand.

Takatori looked around and didn't see any servant coming up with a cloth so he brushed his hand off on his pant leg. On the inside though he seemed to look quite amused with himself.

~*~

Omi's eyes widened, “What the? Aya!” he picked up his laptop and ran into Aya at the door. Aya glared down at the young boy who literally bounced off his chest.

“Nani desu ka?” Aya asked.

Omi showed him on the laptop, “Okay. Malvagità left the country a while ago. That's this reference here. She flew back for Chikaru, that's registered here. Then she left for the country again.”

Aya nodded, “Yeah, I see that here. Now what is that mark?”

Omi sighed, “She's back, again.”

Aya closed the laptop, “Good, tell the others and make sure you are all prepared to leave soon.”

Omi questioned, “But surely she'll be prepared for us Given her record, I wouldn't be surprised if she tricked the United States secret service into protecting her.”

Aya paused and looked down at him, “This will be a good chance. If we don't get her right when she first arrives, she'll have enough time to disappear in Japan and get comfortable. Then we will never get to her.”

Aya went to Arashi's door, “Arashi? Are you in there.”

After a long pause there was a very long, “Yes.” On the other side.

Aya sighed, “Okay, get ready we are going to be going out on another mission.” There was a long pause again. “Arashi? Do you here me? We're going!”

There was a muffled giggle, “Okay Aya.”

Aya stared at the door, “What are you doing?”

The reply was a pause, then a delayed, “Nothing.”

Aya growled, “I'm coming in.” He pushed open the door to see Arashi on her bed with an open book spread over her lap. He stared at the book, “What is that?”

Arashi grinned and looked up, “Oh Aya-chan, you had such a cute butt when you were little. Even I can't blame you for wanting to show it off.”

Aya's eyes widened, “My parent's photo album? What the- how did you get that!” he lunged forward to take it.

Arashi jumped up out of his reach on the bed, “Oh, would you look at that, you have a cheerio stuck up your nose.” She looked closer, “A milk mustache. How youthful.”

Aya jumped onto the bed, “Give it!”

Arashi jumped off the bed near the wall, “You're swimming! Wow, how cold is that water?” she looks closer and giggles, “Looks pretty cold, and you seem to be liking it.”

Aya dashed off the bed, “Hey!”

Arashi had already slipped away, “Oh my gosh! It makes sense you went to school but…” she started to giggle, “You look so funny in shorts!” In the picture he had on the uniform, khaki shorts, knee high socks, a white dressy shirt, a navy blue blazer and a red bow.

Aya rushed forward again for the album and only managed to slap it out of her hand. The book landed on the ground, the pages rested on a young girl with blue colored hair and big eyes.

Aya glared at the book, Arashi instantly recognized it was Aya's sister (Maya or Aya-chan, which ever) on the page. Aya picked up the book and briskly walked out of the room.

Arashi attempted to start an apology but he slammed the door in her face. “Ah, crap.”

~*~

Aya waited inside the flower shop, when everyone else came rushing in with their gear, he looked at them and asked, “What the hell do you guys think you are doing?”

Arashi looked Aya up and down, “Aya… you are wearing a suite and tie.”

Youji cheered, “Aya! You've gone James Bond! You should have told me, I'd dress up too.”

Aya turned around, “Go get dressed for a fancy restaurant. We're taking my car. I'll explain it to you all on the way.”

In about five minutes they were all stumbling down the stairs again in suite. Omi looked like he was going to a bat mitzvah, the poor kid. Youji looked like he was going for a new approach on getting women. Ken looked like a secret service agent, if only he had sunglasses.

Arashi was wearing black, of course. The dress was sleeveless; she wore gloves and tall black shoes. Her long dark hair was pulled up into a nice bun, two ringlets of hair hung before either ear.

They all got to a black Mercedes. Arashi yelled out, “Shot gun!”

Youji followed, “Shot gun!”

Ken and Omi yelled at the same time, “Shot gun!”

Aya was still standing with his key half way into the lock, he looked up, “There are three seats in the back. I'm afraid I can't allow all five of us to be sitting in the two front seats.” He opened the door, “Arashi, you sit in the front with me.”

Arashi slid in and grinned at Youji, “I told you he loves me more.” Then she stuck out her tongue.

Aya put the car into gear and said while he looked for traffic, “You called shot gun first.”

Arashi turned around in her seat, “Humor me please.” Aya didn't respond, they started driving and eventually got onto the free way. Aya drives slower than old people, he drives 10 miles under the speed limit at all times and pauses for 30 seconds at all stop signs.

Youji banged his head against the seat in front of him, “I'm so bored, why are we going so slow?”

Arashi complained, “You're hitting my chair. Don't make me come back there.”

Omi started before Youji could say anything, “So, why did you have us all dress up like dancing monkeys?”

Aya very slowly changed lanes then said, “Because Malvagità has had reservations made at this restaurant. We're going to go there and wait for her to arrive then we will kill her.”

Omi leaned back and very quietly murmured, “I like my outfit, and I think I look cool.”

~*~

Aya got out of his car and handed the keys to a young valet parker. Arashi waited for her door to be opened by one of the young me working there. A young and delecate male waited by the door and flashed a smile as he handed her his hand to help her out.

Omi got out after Ken and Youji and looked around, “Its so beautiful!”

Aya walked in and was about to place and order when Youji ran up, “Five please. Under Youji.”

The server blinked and sighed, “I can seat you now.”

Youji grinned, “That would be great. Oh, bring a booster seat.” Then he motioned to Omi who was obliviously staring around the room.

The server brought them to a table and put down a booster seat when Omi decided to sit down. Omi glared at the booster seat and punched Youji's shoulder. Youji was uncontrollably laughing, trying to hide his face behind a napkin.

Omi looked at the server, “I'm sorry for the confusion, he's an idiot.”

The server smacked her gum inside her mouth then walked away. Another server came up, this one seemed much more sprightly. She gave a play salute then began, “I'll be your server this evening, would any of you fine gentlemen or lady like any drinks?”

Youji stated, “I like blondes.”

The girl looked at him with her big green eyes, “Excuse me sir?”

Youji shook his head, “I'll take a coca cola.”

The girl nodded, “I'll put you down for a diet coke, only one calorie!”

Ken laughed and said, “You probably don't have Gatorade, so I'll take a sprite.”

Aya stated, “Hot green tea.”

Arashi shrugged, “Do you have Perrier?”

The girl nodded and then grinned and said, “And for you Bombay?”

Omi looked up, “What?”

The girl put her little note pad over her mouth and giggled, “You look like a kitten. What drink would you like?”

Youji ruffled his hair, “He'd like a milk and a kids menu.”

Omi pushed Youji off, “Shimatta! I'd like a chocolate milk please.”

The girl nodded, “All right, I'll be right on it.”

They waited for about 10 minutes before another server came up, “Have you been served?”

Arashi began, “I think our server ditched us.”

The waitress watched her and sighed, “Okay, I'll bring you all your drinks. What do you want from the menu?”

Omi stared, “It's all in French.”

The waitress nodded, “What will it be?”

Youji flipped it open and pointed to the closest thing, “I'll take the… uh… Langoustine avec de la sauce à citron.”

Ken closed his eyes and pointed, “I guess I'm going with Les oeufs bouillis durs ont servi en fromage suisse.”

Omi scanned the pages, “Doigts de poulet. That sounds mature, I'll take it.”

Arashi stared wide-eyed at the page for a while, she finally sighed, “I'll go with the viande de cheval.”

The server nodded, “Puits fait?”

Arashi stared, thinking, `Oh great, the one I choose has to be the one I speak in French for, “No.”

The server asked, “Moyen?”

“No.” Arashi tried again.

“Then sanglant?” The waitress asked.

Arashi paused then nodded.

“Avec de la sauce à viande?”

Arashi looked down at the menu as if the answers would be there, “Yeah, sure. She tried to think of a French word and added, “Avec fromage du cerveau.”

The waitress looked at her for a moment then shrugged. “And you?”

Aya put down his menu and closed his eyes, “I think I'll take la salade de crevette.”

The waitress nodded then walked off, “I'll be right back with all of you.”

Arashi sighed, “Thank God for French soap opera's.”

Ken nodded, “Here, here.”

Aya looked around, “I don't know when they will be here. But this is apparently one of her favorite places to go. She just got back from who knows where, so she'll probably want to come here.”

Youji growled, “You're not even sure?”

Aya grinned, “She also had reservations. I can only assume.”

They waited around for a while when the waitress brought them the food. They all stared, wondering who would get what.

A man leaned over and whispered to Arashi from the next booth, “I love a woman who can hold her meat.”

Arashi's eyes widened and she gulped. The waitress titled, “Chicken Fingers, very mature.” She put them in front of Omi. “Lobster, always a good choice.”

“Score!” Youji mouthed, “I got something good!”

The next dish stunk, she put it in front of Ken, “Two eggs, hard boiled in goat lard and served with Swiss cheese.” Arashi was beginning to have a bad feeling, there were only two dishes left.

“Shrimp pasta for the Mr.” She put it down in front of him, “And raw horse meat, completely rare and served with `cheese of the brain'.”

Arashi stared at her dish as the waitress walked away. “Aya, do you see this?” She whispered.

Aya started poking at his, “Just eat it. We don't want to draw any attention.”

“But I can't eat this.” Arashi whispered back.

Aya sighed, “Here, take mine. Take your time in eating though, we don't want to have the bill before Malvagità even arrives.” He put his plate in front of her. Arashi stared at it for a moment, “Arashi? You do eat meat don't you?”

Arashi smiled, “Yeah, I appreciate meat, but… raw horse meat is a little over the top.”

Aya cut up a slice of his meat and ate it. Youji was savoring ever bite of his. Ken was gagging on his eggs. Omi was… actually having fun with his chicken fingers and milk.

They eventually finished the food and there was still no sign of Malvagità. The waitress asked, “Shall I bring your bill now?”

Arashi sighed but was interrupted by Aya, “No, I think we'd like another round of food, give us a moment to decide on what we would like.” When the waitress left he explained, “We have to make sure we stay here until she arrives. Then we kill her and escape.”

They ordered another dish, and after that a round of drinks. When Malvagità still hadn't shown up they ordered some rice bowls with shrimp.

Omi whined, “I'm so full. I can't eat any more.”

Youji leaned back, “I agree, I'm going to be mad if I can't get into my clubbing gear after this.”

Aya looked around, “She'll probably be here soon. I'm sure of that.”

Ken asked, “What is your plan of attack?”

Aya thought about it, “I… assumed we'd just… go kill her.”

Arashi leaned over, “I have a better idea, half of us go get into the chef out fits and wait for her to arrive. We poison her meal and she'll be dead in less than one day. It won't trace back to this place, and if it does, then they won't find us.”

Omi agreed, “I think that is our best bet.”

Arashi chuckled, “Then lets go.”

Aya held them back, “We can't all go. Some of us have to stay here.”

Youji whispered, “Shot gun!”

Omi and Ken whispered it quickly too, “Shot gun!”

Arashi began, “Shot- oh damn it. Fine.”

Aya rolled his eyes, “Please, you're embarrassing me with your enthusiasm to be near me.”

Arashi playfully pushed him, “Get over yourself.”

Youji and the other two stood up, “We'll be going now.”

Ken waved, “Arrr Vrrawwrr.”

Omi winked, “Au revoir.”

Arashi and Aya sat in complete silence for a while. A waitress brought them over a bottle of red wine. “This is for the lady, its from the gentleman over by the bar.”

Arashi looked over her shoulder, “Do you recognize him Abyssinian?”

Aya shook his head, “No, looks like just a lonely man.”

Arashi waved for the waitress to pour to glasses of wine. Aya asked after he took his glass, “Isn't this kind of rude? That you so easily give me the wine?”

Arashi shrugged and sipped, “Actually, this is one of the greatest things about going out. You get a drink from a guy on the other side of the room, and after you take it, he firmly keeps his ass on that side of the room and leaves you the hell alone.”

Aya licked the wine off his lips, “Magical.” He replied sarcastically.

They waited for a while, occasionally getting a wave from the three weird `chefs' in the kitchen. They ended up ordering two more meals and deserts. Arashi groaned, “It's really late. I don't think they are coming.”

Aya clicked his teeth, “I'm beginning to have doubts as well.”

“Excuse me,” the manager vocalized, “I've been watching you and I've noticed your friends have left. I surely hope you plan on staying for the bill.”

Arashi nodded, “Oh yes of course, don't be silly.”

The manager grinned, “That's great, now I think I'll be needing to see some sort of proof that you can pay me.” He crossed his arms, “The bill is currently reaching 10,000 Â¥.”

Aya took a big gulp of what was left of the wine and said, “We don't have the money.”

The manager tapped his foot, “I see” he glared at them for a moment then said, “Come with me.”

They got up and followed him. He equipped them with aprons and the spent the evening putting away dishes. Arashi groaned, “It looks like Youji, Ken and Omi ditched us.”

Aya shrugged, “Doesn't matter, they'll be home later than us, remember they don't have the valet ticket so they are currently hitch hiking.”

Arashi smiled and splashed a little big of water at him. Aya wiped the water off and stared at it then flicked some suds at Arashi and grinned.

Arashi wiped it off her apron and playfully scolded, “Hey!” Aya grinned and shook his head then went back to the dishes. Arashi shook her head and went back to her task.

~*~

Malvagità filed her nails and sighed, “Why didn't we go to that darling little French place?”

Chikaru shrugged, “I don't know, I guess you changed your mind.”

Malvagità sighed, “Oh well. I guess we'll just go to that darling little Belgian place.”

 

(\(\

(~.-)

o((o)o)

 

How did you like it? Enjoy it? Hate it? Want more? Want something in particular?

Tell me on AIM, my SN is SchuldigLiebe

Or Tell me on my e-mail, Chikaru-chan@socal.rr.com